ă€ŠMaster&#x27;s Untamed Wifeă€‹


 Chapter 1 - â€™Nothingâ€™ That Lasts Forever

    Nothingsts forever...

    Raelle had engraved this statement not only on the deepest part of her heart but also on her soul. Whether it be anger, hatred, sadness, happiness, or love. None of these emotions could affect you forever. Every emotion tends to wane in the current of time.

    And since nothing was believed tost forever, Raelle resolved to be content with ''Nothing''. Because as long as she felt nothing, these vain emotions couldn''t shake the harmony of her life. Human emotions had always been too difficult to understand for her brain.

    She had seen people destroying each other in the name of love, jealousy, hatred. She had seen people stuck in the endless cycle of revenge. All of this was considered counterproductive to her.

    Even though she never understood any of it, every nerve, every sinew, every thought of hers was hell-bent on the sole purpose of finding that ''Nothing'' that wouldst forever. Because in her opinion, emotions would only make a person impulsive and then people would be ves to their own emotions.

    However, this simple logic was something she couldn''t make her grandfather understand. While her grandfather strongly believed that herck of emotions was keeping her from enjoying life to the fullest, she didn''t agree. She didn''t believe in things she couldn''t exin with reason; just like emotions that went beyond the logic one''s brain couldprehend.

    Nheless, she could never bring herself to hurt her grandfather or go against his words. And that was the reason, she was sitting in this cafe with her new blind date.

    Seriously, she had even lost the count of how many times she hade to such blind dates. This was supposedly a never-ending cycle. She was tired of it but apparently, her grandfather definitely wasn''t tired of arranging such meetings.

    She blinked her ck peach blossom eyes at the man sitting before her with a smile stered on her naturally red lips. Her eyes were charming with rows of thick, long, curly eyshes that looked like densely packed ck feathers of top-quality. Whenever she blinked, they seemed to flutter like butterfly wings -- alluringly, making one''s heart itch.

    She elegantly picked up the ss of water before her to take a sip. The remnants of water stuck on her soft red lips making them look like rose petals being caressed by the dewdrops.

    Unbeknownst to her, each and every gesture of hers was making someone''s heartbeat quicken. Although Mr. Blind date only came here under the pressure of his family, he was now entranced. The girl before him had a beguiling face, her smooth jade-like skin, and her sharp features gave her a tempting vibe.

    He really couldn''t bring himself to look away. He opened his mouth to introduce himself, "I''m..." But before he could continue, the girl before him slid a document towards him. His brows furrowed up as he looked at her inquisitively, "This is...?"

    Raelle''s lips curled into a beautiful arc as she answered, "I heard Mr. Zhang wants to spread his wings and venture into the field of Augmented and Virtual Reality. However, your family isn''t very supportive of your ambitions."

    Mr. Blind date or Mr. Zhang whatever you''d like to call him, squinted his eyes at her, "Your point is?"

    "I''m willing to be the supporter you need to spread your wings and soar high in the sky," was her carefree response but her tone was very determined. She definitely wasn''t fooling around. Although her lips had a smile ying on them, her eyes left no room for argument.

    Something flickered through Mr. Zhang''s eyes as he said, "There is no such thing as free meal... And I don''t think there is anything I can offer Miss Xiang."

    Raelle crossed her one leg over the other as she leaned back in her chair, "I don''t have the habit of making deals that aren''t beneficial to me. As it so happens, there is something you can offer me in return." She took a brief pause and just as the smile on her face widened, she went on, "You just have to tell my grandfather that we are notpatible with each other."

    Doubt shed through Mr. Zhang''s eyes or maybe it was disbelief. The girl before his eyes was offering him his biggest dream and only wanted him to say one thing to her grandfather? What game was she ying? He really couldn''t understand.

    Seeing his hesitation, Raelle sighed out, "You can read the contract. I definitely won''t go back on my words."

    Mr. Zhang had just picked up the document when in a blink of an eye, someone sshed the ss of orange juice before him onto the face of the girl sitting opposite him. By the time he came back to his senses, he was being pulled out of his chair.

    "You shameless little witch! How dare you try to seduce my boyfriend with this bewitching face of yours?!" The woman shrieked like a madwoman. "Just because you''re rich doesn''t mean you can steal my boyfriend from me."

    Unlike what one would expect, Raelle was rather calm in this situation as she took a napkin and dabbed her face. She even looked at this pair of lovers as if she was looking at something very amusing.

    But her gaze made Mr. Zhang feel unsettled so he tried to pull the madwoman back saying, "Xinxin, stop causing trouble!"

    "I''m causing trouble?" the woman was enraged. "We have been together for years and yet I am not allowed to stop this? What right does she have toe out of nowhere and steal my love just because she has power and money? Are those the only things important in life? Does my love and sacrifices for you amount to nothing?" Tears had trickled down the woman''s supple cheeks as she cried her heart out miserably.

    Raelle yawnedzily and stood up at anguid pace. Her eyes settled on this pair of lovers and she spoke in a calm voice, "Ms. Whoever-you-are, you asked a question, let me give you the answer..." Her voice got dangerously low as she continued, "Love and sacrifices, people only use these terms to shackle others. To imprison them in the cage of guilt in the name of love." She raised her hand and the woman cowered back and hid in her boyfriend''s arms. However, Raelle only raised her hand to snatch the contract documents from Mr. Zhang''s hands as she concluded, "Now, let me prove to you what money and power can do. Trust me, it''ll bring an even magical result than your so-called love and sacrifice."

 Chapter 2 - Set Us Free

    "When are youing?"

    "I''m stuck in traffic, might be a littlete. Order a coffee for yourself and wait patiently."

    Shui Xianbed his fingers through his lush ck hair and replied monotonously, "Fine." Then he raised his hand to order a cup of cappino for himself. His lean figure d in a form-fitting suit looked dignified and he definitely looked out of ce in this cafe. He seemed to have an air of domineering masculinity about him.

    If it wasn''t for his sister insisting to meet at a cafe, he''d not have been sitting in this ce at this time. His deep and calm amber-colored eyes carelessly looked out the ss window at the passerby d in coats and thick clothing in this early autumn. His eyes weren''t focused, in fact, he looked to be lost in his own world when his daydreaming was suddenly disturbed by themotion. The center of his fine eyebrows furrowed slightly.

    As soon as he heard, ''Just because you''re rich doesn''t mean you can steal my boyfriend from me.'' He figured out which drama was ying. Coincidently, this whole charade was happening right behind him and he could hear everything. But he wasn''t like other gossipy people and would never turn around to see.

    He had seen plenty of richdies trying to use the money to sow discord between two lovers or seducing other men. It was rathermon in this so-called elite circle where anything was possible. Even the most impossible was possible. He thought it was just anotherdy trying to steal someone''s boyfriend, nothing new. Maybe that''s why he wasn''t really affected by this scene.

    Or at least, he thought he wouldn''t be affected until...

    ''Love and sacrifices, people only use these terms to shackle others. To imprison them in the cage of guilt in the name of love.''

    This voice sounded pleasant - mellow and charming.

    As those words fell into his ear, his whole being stiffened. Numerous memories flooded his brain making him clench his fists until his knuckles turned white. He turned his head to see who said those words but all he caught was the back of a girl who flipped her hair and walked away without even looking back.

    The lines of his cold, hard jaw pulled tautly. Those words made him recall the pain he had been in back then. She had also said those words to him...

    ~~~

    ''I love you, why don''t you believe me?'' he had tried his utmost to hold her back.

    ''If you love me, why don''t you set me free? Why do you have to imprison me in this cage of love? No matter how much you love me, it''ll still be just a cage to me!''

    His heart hurt but she didn''t take pity on him as she ruthlessly pierced through his heart with her words repeatedly.

    ''I gave you everything you asked for. Why can''t you just stay with me?''

    She sneered, ''You''ll keep reminding me what you did for me or for us. But let''s face it, you did everything for yourself. You did it to make me feel guilty. You did it so that I''m not able to leave you!''

    He shook his head repeatedly, ''No! That wasn''t my intention.''

    The woman before him held his hands and pleaded in a soft voice, ''If you really love me then let me go. Set us free from this love that is only hurting us now. Please, sign the divorce papers and let me go!''

    ~~~

    As he opened his eyes, his eyes had cleared up again. There was that familiar cold nkness emitting from his eyes again. He stood up, dialed his sister''s number again.

    "Gege[1], I''m on my way! Just have some patience."

    His cold but monotonous voice rang out, "There is no need to hurry now. I''ve got something important to do. So, I''m leaving early."

    "What? You called me out to meet and now you''re ditching me? How could-"

    The person on the other end was still shouting loudly but he had hung up without any care. He paid for his coffee that he didn''t even touch and went to get his car from the parking lot.

    ....

    "Chief, how can you walk out like this?"

    He heard the voice as soon as he came close to his car and looked over to see that the girl from earlier had been leaning against the limited edition Bentley while another woman was wiping her dark red satin blouse as shemented, "This stain won''t go." One look could tell people that the girl wasn''t from just any rich family. Although he could only see her side profile it was enough to show her elegance.

    She had matched her satin blouse with mars pants, ck shoes, and a ck belt. Although she wore red, she didn''t ostentatious. It made her look morous.

    "This Mr. 49 reallycked some screws in his brain. No wonder he came to a blind date even though he had a girlfriend. Who would want to live with a madwoman?"

    Raelle looked at her assistant in amusement, "Cloe, you even count my blind dates?"

    Cloe shrugged her shoulders, "After two years of watching you suffer through these blind dates, It has be a habit now." Her expressions hardened as she went on, "But seriously, you aren''t gonna let this go easily right? They not only sshed orange juice on you, they even ndered you in public. Also, I''ve been learning about the culture here, and apparently, sshing someone with water is a form of humiliation and insult! We can''t take this lying down!"

    Raelle''s expression didn''t change as she said, "Why does it seem you''re more agitated than me?"

    Cloe sighed out, "Chief, that''s because you don''t even know how to get agitated. I have to carry all these emotions for you. And I know you think revenge is below you but are we really not gonna counterattack? I know you don''t do anything unless it brings you benefits but..."

    "Ahem! Ahem!"

    Hearing that intentional cough, Cloe turned her head to look at the handsome man standing before her. Oh, no! Calling him handsome might be a little understatement. She couldn''t even turn her eyes away from his face. He was perfectly carved into the image of her imaginary male god.

    Shui Xian''s eyes showed his impatience as he clicked his fingers before Cloe''s face and said, "That''s my car. Can you move your car so that I can get to mine?"

    Raelle didn''t even turn to look at him as she simply opened the door of the Bentley and got inside. Taking the cue, Cloe gave Shui Xian a nod of acknowledgment and said her sorry before taking her position behind the steering wheel. After all, it was her fault for parking at the wrong ce. As the car drove away, Shui Xian couldn''t help looking in the direction it went.

    His eyes wereplicated. The calmness, coldness that he had cultivated for the past six years was all wasted as someone managed to tear open his old wounds.

    It seemed he had read the situation wrong earlier.

    [1] ''Gege''; Elder Brother

 Chapter 3 - An Untamed Passion

    Love is all-consuming...

    It''s an amalgam of joy and sorrow. It holds the power to damage you or mend you which is equally frightening and yet tantalizing. It''s addictive even if it burns your soul.

    Love is like an untamed passion.

    It''s like a hushed but devastating hurricane. And yet you''re inclined to bear the typhoon that it brews in your heart; repeating the cycle with the same words... Just one more chance... Just one more breath... Just onest time...

    Love for Shui Xian was just futile and incurable longing. He had seen many forms of love around him from ridiculous love to heartwarming ones. From inconvenient love to selfish love. From can''t-live-without-you love to consuming love. However, his love was still defined as endless torture of hate and love intertwined together.

    He drove back to his office with a myriad of thoughts running through his mind. He had gone out to rx but came back exhausted. He felt exhausted of this love that had lived in his heart for years and he equally felt exhausted of the hate that shaped him into who he was today. It was ironic how he couldn''t let go of this love or this hate. But it was very painful as well.

    *Knock! Knock!*

    Shui Xian lifted his eyes as a knock was heard and soon after, the door was pushed open, and in walked his father whom he hadn''t seen in over a week now. He respectfully stood up and came around to greet his father.

    "B¨¤,[1]" he called out softly. "What brings you to thepany at this hour?"

    His father, Shui Koshing had aplex gaze directed towards his son before replying, "My son hasn''t beening home for days. I thought I should pay him a visit myself."

    As Shui Xian sat down with his father in the sitting space, he showed an apologetic expression before saying, "Sorry! I had been busy with work."

    Shui Koshing hummed in understanding. How could he not know why his son hadn''t beening home? He knew very well how his son was trying to work himself to death.

    "Did you have dinner?" Before Shui Xian could make an excuse, he went on, "I knew it." He waved his hand and someone brought the dinner he had personally brought from home to eat with his son. "I know you have a habit of forgetting to eat. So, I asked the kitchen staff to cook everything ording to your liking and personally brought it here."

    Shui Xian looked at the table full of a piping hot meal and the coldness on his face thawed a little. He would only show this softened expression to his family members. "You didn''t have to."

    Shui Koshing shook his head and personally served the meal to his son saying, "If I don''t do this, how else would I get to enjoy a meal with my only son?"

    Shui Xian couldn''t refute those words so he chose to silently eat the food before him. He hadn''t eaten a homecooked meal in days.

    Seeing his son eat with gusto, Shui Koshing''s eyes showed a gentleness. He still couldn''t believe the change he had seen his son over the years. Once, his son was like a warm and lively person. Even though he grew up in an affluent family, he had always been a humble person. But he was arrogant when it came to his love. And he was also impulsive for that love.

    It was a pity that that love eventually trampled on his arrogance. That love asked him for great sacrifices which he didn''t hesitate from and yet he got nothing in return except for a harsh p of reality. He and everyone around him had to pay a hefty price for his love. At that time, he didn''t want to inherit his family business but when everything was about to slip away from their hands, he finally chose to shed his youthful naivety and vowed to be the perfect heir.

    He put all his time and energy into his career and became the strong and powerful person that he was today. But Shui Koshing had seen how he had treated himself the harshest in the previous years as if he was punishing himself for everything his family had to face because of his love.

    Shui Koshing''s heart hurt seeing his son like this.

    "B¨¤, why are you looking at me like this?" asked Shui Xian when he noticed how his father''s food was untouched. "Aren''t you hungry?"

    Shui Koshing nodded his head and took a bite before saying, "You know, you don''t have to work so hard anymore."

    Shui Xian pressed his thin lips, "I don''t think I have anything else to do." He gave a bitter smile to his father and continued to eat. How could he not see his father''s worries? It was very clear to him. Even though he possessed everything now, his heart still felt the bitterness and unwillingness to ept which welled up in dark and lonely nights.

    Shui Koshing took a moment to contemte, "What do you think about getting married?"

    "Again?" retorted Shui Xian in surprise. "As if I have any good memories from the first time."

    "So what are you nning? Are you gonna spend the rest of your life alone?"

    Shui Xian stayed silent in reply.

    "I''ve never questioned your decisions and I have never tried to force you into anything. I just always wanted to see you happy. And even now, I only want to see you happy."

    Shui Xian feltplicated listening to his father''s words. He knew he had lived his life willfully. He always did everything that he felt was right. In the process, he hurt and disappointed his parents, plenty of times. Even now when he thought he was working hard for the honor of his family, he was just lying to himself. He was just trying to atone for his sins by burying himself in work like this.

    Listening to his father, he realized one thing...

    "If you have someone you like and you want me to marry her, let me know."

    Shui Koshing was startled. "Are you serious?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "Yes. I''m very serious."

    ''B¨¤'': It means ''Dad'' in Chinese

 Chapter 4 - Colors Of Life

    On the other side...

    Raelle had waited till midnight before making her way home just to avoid seeing her grandfather. She took off her heels at the door and tiptoed her way through the dark house. However, just as she was about to ascend the stairs, all the lights in the house lit up. Raelle''s body froze right where she was, with her one foot dangling in the air.

    "Xiang Yenay!"

    This was her Chinese name which she only heard from her grandfather''s mouth and only when he was angry with her. In fact, there was no one outside of this house who knew about her Chinese name. Since she grew up in Country G, she didn''t have to use her Chinese name. And personally, she still preferred being called ''Raelle''.

    Raelle straightened up andnguidly stepped around to get to the family room. She was met with the furious eyes of her grandfather. Although the elderly man was sitting in a wheelchair, had a frail and sluggish constitution, his eyes were still as sharp as a hawk. They seem to be trying to probe her soul.

    However, Raelle had always been like a nk paper. She was just as she seemed; arrogant and clever but also very realistic. She never had anything to hide, especially from her grandfather whom she worshipped.

    The elderly man was in histe sixties, his face was expressionless and yet seemed dignified. Because he once had served in the military, he exuded an air of magnificence, intimidation, and heroism. He was a man who had braved countless storms.

    Since Raelle didn''t feel good looking at him from above, she respectfully kneeled down before him toe at his eye level. She seemed well-mannered before the elderly man who might have been past his prime but was still a powerful figure. Although she stood at the pinnacle of sess, before her grandfather, she was nothing but humble and respectful.

    She slowly looked at her grandfather''s expressions and uttered, "Opa,[1] this time I didn''t y any trick. Even before I could do anything, the blind date fell apart."

    Xiang Tianyu, her grandfather rubbed his forehead and said, "It means you had some tricks up your sleeves, eh?"

    She smiled beautifully and noted, "I''m your granddaughter. How can I not have any tricks up my sleeves?"

    "Is that something to brag about?" he sounded harsh.

    Her smile didn''t drop even though he was being so stern. In fact, her smile was rxed as she continued, "Opa, I already told you to let''s not do this. How many blind dates have failed already? Why don''t you just ept that I am fine the way I am?"

    Grandfather Xiang felt distressed as he said, "Is it so wrong that I wish for you to be happy?"

    Raelle''s brows furrowed slightly as she asserted, "How am I not happy? I have a belief in life, one should never settle for less. Rtionships are all built on mutual benefits. Either you call it love or happiness, it''s just human selfishness in the end. People get into rtionships to fill the voids they feel in their hearts. They look for warmth that is missing in their lives. It''s all about benefits. It''s all just like a business transaction. Once they feel like that warmth is not enough, they choose to break up and get divorced. We are all ying a game of monopoly in the name of love and feelings." Her grandfather''s eyes wereplicated while she didn''t stop there, "But when I already feel happy in life, why should I get into a rtionship to look for happiness? The other person has to offer something more for me to be enticed into a rtionship. At least something more than useless feelings." She took a pause to add, "Besides, if a person is not happy within himself, how is that person supposed to find happiness through a rtionship?"

    "Shut up!"

    Raelle flinched and sealed her lips. Oh-uh! It seemed she again ticked off her grandfather. But she didn''t mind it, her grandfather would never stay angry with her for long. She wouldn''t lie; she also manipted his love for her. At least, he said it was love. Even if she didn''t know what this love felt like, she definitely knew she was important to him more than anything.

    "Elder Xiang," came the voice of ady as she stepped up and rubbed Grandfather''s chest. "You shouldn''t get this angry. It''s not good for your health."

    Raelle looked at thedy and mouthed her thank you. Thedy, Mu Chenyan smiled at her and shook her head in resignation. She was the adoptive daughter of Grandfather Xiang. She lost her parents when she was very young and during that time Grandmother Xiang had taken in this pitiful child who lost her family. Now, even though Grandmother Xiang was not around, she was.

    "Why don''t you tell this stubborn girl to stop infuriating me?!"

    Raelle showed a pitiful look. There was no fluctuation in her emotions but she had mastered the art of expressions. It was indeed to deceive this grandfather of hers who worried that she was too emotionless. This was precisely why he had been arranging so many blind dates for her. He thought if she fell in love or even developed some kind of feelings of goodwill, everything would be fine.

    "Poppet, you said you''re happy. Please define this happiness you feel."

    Raelle''s expressions turned solemn as she recited, "I feel joy and contentment in whatever I have. I feel like my life is good, meaningful, and worthwhile." She felt proud of herself for some reason.

    Grandfather Xiang looked up at Mu Chenyan as he questioned, "Did you hear that? She still thinks she can fool me with a textbook definition of happiness."

    Raelle sighed out, "Opa, you told me to smile and see how brightly I smile. What else do you want from me?"

    "Poppet, this smile has stopped fooling me now. It doesn''te from your heart."

    Raelle''s expressions shifted, as she also looked at Mu Chenyan and said, "Yanyan, you''ve studied medicine. Why don''t you remind my Opa that the heart''s job is to pump blood and keep us alive? It has nothing to do with happiness."

    "Young Miss, your grandfather''s worries are justified." Raelle gaped at her in disbelief as she continued, "You are a smart person. You''ve read countless books. You must have read, ''Being human is not about feeling happy, it''s about feeling everything.''"

    Raelle nodded her head, "Yes, that''s a quote by Glennon Doyle." She didn''t miss a beat before answering correctly. With her impable memory, it wasn''t difficult to recall something she read once.

    "Correct!" started Mu Chenyan. "Even if we believe that you''re happy in your life, we wish for you to feel everything and not just happiness."

    "Even if it''s pain?" questioned Raelle seriously.

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head honestly, "Yes, even if it means you''d get hurt. We wish for you to feel that pain. Because only then you can say you''ve lived life to the fullest. A living person should taste all colors life has to offer."

    [1] ''Opa'': It means Grandfather, originated in Germany.

 Chapter 5 - The Girl With No Feelings

    ''Even if it hurts, you should go through it? What kind of twisted logic is that?'' wondered Raelle but she didn''t say it out loud.

    "Opa, how about you give me some time?" Raelleid out her condition. "We just came to Country H about two months ago. I''m still very unfamiliar with things here. And yet, I''ve already gone to 4 blind dates here." She spoke with a determined tone, "I have to settle a lot of things here. Although you started everything from this country, it''s been decades since you stepped foot here. It''s not easy for me to suddenly settle down here leaving everything behind. You need to give me some space to get familiar with this ce and the people here."

    Grandfather Xiang thought about what she said and nodded, "Go back to your room. It''ste."

    "So, no more blind dates, right?"

    "No more blind dates," he answered.

    Raelle hugged him and gave him a kiss before turning to leave but stopped to say, "Opa, isn''t there a proverb around here, ''One smile undoes 1000 worries.'' So, stop frowning and give me a smile."

    Grandfather Xiang smiled at her softly and she happily made her way upstairs towards her room. Xiang Tianyu watched her retreating back and his smile vanished.

    "She won''t say it but she is indeed not fine with moving here all of a sudden."

    Mu Chenyan pushed his wheelchair towards his room as she said, "Young Miss had lived a very organized life. It''s difficult for her mentally to suddenly change the routines of her life. But you don''t need to worry, she''ll manage."

    Grandfather Xiang didn''t say anything to agree or contradict. His worry wasn''t that she won''t be able to get used to life here. His worry was that she would never learn that life wasn''t all about work, money, and profits. She just turned 24 and yet had no idea what real happiness felt like.

    Raelle Xiang was very young when she started disying her strange behavior. Even though she was exceptionally smart, that was what brought her grandfather a lot of worries. Because she acted more like a robot with a monotonous life than a human. She had a set routine of studying, eating, and there was no time for things like ying. And if anyone tried to interfere in that routine, she''d be irritated. Everything needed to be precise for her.

    He took her to plenty of renowned doctors but it didn''t really help. Her symptoms were said to be simr to patients of Alexithymia because she had difficulty with understanding emotions or exining them. Even if she fell down, she won''t be able to define the feeling of pain. It actually didn''t mean she couldn''t feel it, it just meant she didn''t know how to express that feeling.

    She had graduated high school at the age of 13 and graduated from Business School at the age of 16. Because of this, she had never been able to make friends. No psychiatrist had been able to help her. And she didn''t really take those psychiatrists seriously either. There was only one thing she took seriously; work!

    ording to her matter of profits that she could calcte were a lot easier than a matter of human emotions that she neither could see nor could calcte. So, that''s why she invested her all in her grandfather''s business.

    She not only made him take the backbench, she even managed to take the ''Wanda Enterprises'' to a pinnacle it could never reach before. When she said she wanted to focus on the Asian Market, he didn''t hesitate to take advantage of this and brought her back to his home country.

    Buting here was also in naught. All she thought about day after day was how to earn money and more money and some more money!

    "Did the Zhang family know that their son had a girlfriend?" Grandfather Xiang questioned as he settled on his bed.

    "It seems so," replied Mu Chenyan. "Although they had been against their rtionship, their son had still been seeing that woman behind their backs."

    Grandfather Xiang scoffed, "They dared to send their son on this blind date knowing that their son already has a girlfriend? What do they think of my granddaughter?"

    Mu Chenyan helped him with the duvet as she informed, "Elder Xiang doesn''t have to worry though. They insulted our Young Miss, naturally, I''ll make them pay the price for that." Her lips curled up slightly as she continued, "I''ll make sure to bring them on their knees before our Young Miss."

    Grandfather Xiang nodded his head in agreement, "Yes! They should know what are the consequences of messing with Raelle Xiang are. If our family''s little one forgives them, let them be. But if she doesn''t, make sure I don''t hear the name of this Zhang family again."

    "I''ll do it ordingly," said Mu Chenyan before bowing respectfully and leaving his room. After thinking for a moment, she came to Raelle room and knocked.

    Soon, the door was opened from inside and she looked at the girl who seemed to have juste out of a shower. "Hey, Yanyan! Come inside!" Saying that Raelle stepped away and let here inside. "What brings you here at this hour?"

    "Why didn''t you do anything?" questioned Mu Chenyan. Raelle looked at her inquisitively through the mirror. Mu Chenyan stepped up to help her dry her hair as she asked, "That woman said so much and you stayed quiet."

    Raelle could feel her displeasure and found it interesting, "I don''t like wasting my words on unnecessary people."

    "Elle!"

    "Yes?"

    "Didn''t you feel anything?"

    Raelle shrugged her shoulders, "I really didn''t. I just found them quite boring. I didn''t think it was interesting enough to make a move myself." Then she smiled at Mu Chenyan and added, "And I know, my Yanyan is enough to deal with such people."

    Mu Chenyan touched her head lovingly as she said, "Elle, at least learn to get angry for yourself."

    "Anger brings the destruction of the mind," replied Raelle calmly. "I''d like to keep my distance from such things."

    Mu Chenyan sighed, "No wonder your grandfather is so worried about you." She took a brief pause and spoke, "Your grandfather wants to see you lead a normal person like other girls your age. So, even though he said ''no more blind dates'', he won''t give up."

    Raelle smiled widely, "I know."

 Chapter 6 - A Playful Morning

    Raelle could hear the hushed voices of her grandfather and Mu Chenyan even before she entered the dining room. But as soon as she strolled in, both of them ceased to talk making Raelle suspicious. Nevertheless, she wasn''t inquisitive enough to probe them for answers that''s why she simply trotted over to give her grandfather a kiss, "Morning!"

    "Good morning!" replied Grandfather Xiang as he peeked at her with knitted brows.

    Mu Chenyan also noticed Raelle''s attire and frowned in confusion. She was dressed in ck leather pants with a white button-down paired with a windowpane zer and ck strappy shoes. "Young Miss, you''re going somewhere?"

    Raelle slid into a seat beside Mu Chenyan and nodded her head, "Yup! I have a flight to catch." She opened the lid of herptop and continued to work as she rified offhandedly, "I''ve got to deal with somethings personally in Country G. But don''t worry, I''ll be back in no time."

    "Poppet, it''s Lunar New Year," reminded Grandfather Xiang.

    "I know," replied Raelle. "Isn''t that''s why I''m leaving now?" She looked up at her grandfather and went on, "Opa, this holiday is the whole week long. Since I can''t possibly revoke the public holiday here, I might as well check up on my employees elsewhere."

    Grandfather Xiang exhaled a long breath, "This is the grandest traditional festival here. You have never celebrated it here. Why don''t you stay and see the beauty of this festival?"

    Raelle''s eyes were stuck on theptop screen as she answered, "What do people do at this festival?"

    Mu Chenyan was exhrated to hear that Raelle exhibited some interest and impatiently list down, "They have annual family reunions, make dumplings together, and then eat the grand new year meal together. Watch the new year festival show on the tv and set fireworks. Oh, and they also send or receive red packets. I even heard how youngsters have an app where they y red packet games."

    "Sounds very tedious," was Raelle''s candid and genuine response. Seeing how she dampened Mu Chenyan''s excitement, she sighed, "Yanyan, we don''t need annual family reunions. We don''t have any family members other than us. We eat one meal together daily. I don''t like watching tv and as for red packets... You can prepare one for me, I''ll be more than happy to take it."

    Mu Chenyan pressed her lips together and didn''t utter another word. From the moment, Raelle mentioned how they don''t have anyone else in this family, she didn''t know how to continue this conservation. Because everything Raelle added was true. She couldn''t even argue with any of it.

    Even Grandfather Xiang didn''t continue this discussion as always his granddaughter ended the conversation on ''money''. The way she always thought about money was as if shecked it. He really didn''t know what sense of aplishment she was looking for by earning so much.

    Shaking his head, he remonstrated, "Leave theptop and eat your breakfast."

    Raelle simply opened her mouth, "Ahhh..."

    Mu Chenyan chuckled silently at her and put a bite of eggs into her opened mouth which she chewed with a smile and continued to work.

    "Don''t you have your own hands?! Let Chenyan eat as well." bellowed Grandfather Xiang.

    Mu Chenyan said indulgently, "It''s alright. I can eatter."

    "Yanyan is the sweetest. Opa is so not sweet this morning."

    "Should I arrange another blind date for you?"

    Raelle almost choked on her food and putting her hands together beseeched, "No, no! There is no need for that. My Opa is the best in the whole world."

    Grandfather Xiang''s eyes softened in amusement. It had been four months since herst blind date and this was the longest she had gone without a blind date in thest two years. Without having to deal with those troublesome blind dates, she found her days rather more enjoyable.

    Although now it had been about six months since she came to Country H, she still wasn''t that ustomed to things here. Take this long public holiday for the lunar year for instance. She always heard about this festival from her grandfather and Mu Chenyan, this was her first time seeing it being celebrated.

    "Good Morning, everyone!"

    Raelle didn''t even spare a nce to the neer as she informed, "You''re fifteen minuteste, Cloe."

    Cloe''s face stiffened and she grumbled something under her breath unhappily. "I''m sorry for beingte, Chief!"

    "Cloe, have a seat. Did you have breakfast?" inquired Mu Chenyan.

    Cloe''s whole person bloomed up being faced with such warmth from Mu Chenyan. She sat down opposite Raelle and smiled at Mu Chenyan, "Thank you! I actually didn''t get a chance to eat anything."

    "Then eat first," Grandfather Xiang also chimed in.

    Cloe almost shed tears of joy as she directed a nce towards Grandfather Xiang filled with gratefulness, "Sir, you''re still as kind as ever."

    "There is no need to tter him anymore. He is not your boss any longer. I''m the one paying you now," reminded Raelle as she continued to eat the food that she was being fed. "So, if you''re eager for a pay raise, try ttering me. It might work like a charm!"

    Before Cloe could react to that, Grandfather Xiang asked, "Cloe, did you cry? Or you didn''t sleep wellst night?"

    "It must be both," said Raelle. "She must be watching those chick-flickste into the night. Must have shed some tears along with pitiful girls."

    Cloe felt like her boss was personally attacking her but she couldn''t even argue. Not because thetter was her boss but because she was right. Her boss really knew her inside out. It was scary how she was able to read people so well.

    With a shallowugh, Cloe said sadly, "I indeed had been watching movies because I thought I''d bezing in my bed today till noon." Then she gave Raelle a pointed look as she went on, "But a certain someone called me an hour ago to tell me to pack my bags and get here. Being the pitiful assistant, I could onlye when my boss asks me to." She even wiped a nonexistent tear saying, "What can I possibly do? It''s all for my paycheck. I have to bear with it."

    Raelle gave her a disdainful look before asking her grandfather, "Where did you find such a piece back then? She is so emotional and dramatic."

    Grandfather Xiang narrowed his eyes saying, "I actually thought, her emotions might rub off on you but I was wrong. Very wrong!"

    Raelle wasn''t really surprised to hear this reply. She also knew why her grandfather had ced Cloe beside her. It was quite obvious. Cloe had theplete opposite personality. But this tactic was pretty useless though because instead of Cloe''s colorful personality rubbing off on Raelle, thetter''s ckened personality rubbed off on the former.

    Raelle closed the lid of herptop and took a napkin to wipe her mouth but even that was done by Mu Chenyan. Raelle of course was more than happy with that. It was pretty normal for her. From a young age, she was served everything on a gold tter. She never had to even lift her finger to get anything.

    She stood up and hugged her grandfather saying, "Opa, take care of Yanyan. I know she''ll take care of you so you also take care of her." Grandfather Xiang shook his head at her as he hugged her back.

    "Can''t you dy this visit?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    "Can''t do," was Raelle''s response. "The International Business Center project of ours is already in thest phase of the nning. Aftering back, I have to choose the contractors and once the work begins, it''d be difficult for me to make time for anything else. So, I just want to take advantage of this holiday to settle some things back home."

    Grandfather Xiang squinted his eyes at her unhappily, "This is your home now."

    Raelle smiled at him, "Yes. How can I forget? My home is wherever you and Yanyan are."

    "Cheeky," muttered Grandfather Xiang.

    "When will you be back?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "Mmm... Not sure."

    "Come back before the end of the week, we have something important to tell you."

    Raelle shrugged her shoulders, not really agreeing or disagreeing. "Let''s see." Then she pinched the arm of Cloe who was eating with gusto, "Get up fatso! We got work to do!"

    Cloe reluctantly parted with the food while waving goodbye to Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan. It was always difficult for her to leave this home, this family was so warm it made her feel lonely! Even this aloof, rough, and wild CEO of hers was very warm in her own strange way. But she''d never say it out loud.

    The driver was also waiting for them outside, Cloe took the seat in the front while Raelle slid into the backseat. As soon as she settled in, she took a book and started reading it. Cloe rolled her eyes at this. Her boss had plenty of bad habits, but the one she hated the most would be; Her obsession to stay busy all the time.

    The car rolled out of the circr driveway front yard and smoothly got out of the residential district. However, just as the car passed through the security check of the residential district, the car came to an abrupt halt with a screech!

 Chapter 7 - She Calls It Cheap Love

    Since Raelle had been engrossed in reading the book in her hands, she almost hit her head against the back of the driver''s seat when the car suddenly stopped.

    "Don''t you know how to drive?" Her voice sounded devoid of any emotion but it sent a chill down one''s spine.

    The driver instantly shivered and informed, "Ma''am, those people suddenly jumped out of nowhere."

    Before Raelle could ask what people, the window on her side was knocked, "Miss Xiang, please don''t hurt our family. Give us a way to live!"

    "Chief, let me check," said Cloe as she got out of the car on her own. At first, she didn''t recognize this middle-ageddy but when her eyes fell on the two people kneeling on the road, she suddenly had enlightenment. She had been wondering if her boss forgot about these people but it seemed she had been wrong.

    Since Raelle won''t dirty her hands, it wasn''t like others were not willing to dirty their hands for her.

    Following her, Raelle also disembarked from the car and looked at those people with a calm but impatient gaze.

    "Miss Xiang!" The middle-aged woman tried to rush up to Raelle but Cloe stood in her way.

    "Chief doesn''t like people touching her. Keep your distance!" It was a kind reminder but it held a warning undertone. The middle-aged woman with a disorganized look instantly understood and took a step back.

    "Miss Xiang, I''m truly repentant about what transpired to you." She pped the two people kneeling on the road and added, "This is all their fault. Our family has nothing to do with this. Please let us off! We are already on the verge of bankruptcy. If you continue, we won''t even have a roof over our heads."

    Raelle''s memory was very good. If Cloe could remember these trivial individuals, how could she not? She bent a little and said, "Oh, isn''t this Mr. Zhang and his madwoman? What a pleasant surprise! Long time no see!"

    Indeed the people kneeling on the road in such a pathetic state were the ones who denigrated her in the caf¨¦ four months ago. And she also knew what took them so long to get here, seeking her forgiveness. How could her Yanyan let theme to her before making them taste the utter defeat?

    From their condition, it was obvious how much they must have suffered in these four months. But Raelle neither had sympathy nor empathy. So it was obvious this scene would have no effect on her.

    Then she looked at the middle-aged woman and smiled, "And you... Did you just say that I''m the reason behind your hardships?" Even though her voice was still very mellow, it made the middle-aged woman gulp.

    The middle-aged woman shook her head and hit the ''madwoman'' saying, "You despicable woman! Why are you quiet now?!"

    Taking the cue, the madwoman whose attitude was soaring in the sky back then, shuddered like a frail person and crawled up to Raelle''s front, "Miss Xiang, I''m sorry. I''m really sorry, I misunderstood you. It''s all my fault!" She kowtowed so hard that blood could be seen. "Please, forgive me. You''re forgiving and magnanimous. Don''t do this to us!"

    Raelle leaned against the side of her car and crossed her arms over her chest. "Me? Forgiving and magnanimous? Howe I didn''t know I had such traits?" She looked at Cloe and asked, "Did you know?"

    Cloe shook her head honestly, "I didn''t know either."

    Mr. Ex-Blind date also joined the love of his love saying, "Miss Xiang, please let my family off. My parents didn''t even know that I''m dating Xinxin. Please don''t punish my parents for my mistakes."

    Raelle looked at him straight and asked, "It''s not like I can''t let this go..." The three pairs of eyes were eagerly looking at her. "But I wonder what are you all willing to do in return."

    "Anything!" replied Mrs. Zhang. "No matter what you say, we are willing to do it."

    Raelle looked at the middle-aged woman, "Mrs. Zhang, you have two options... Either you can keep your son or your business and status. Choose wisely. After all, someone who wasted my time and even insulted me before so many people, I can''t just let him off. But you''re not really guilty so I can think of letting you go. And I might even help you a little."

    The middle-aged woman looked at her with a startled look before saying, "My husband put his blood and sweat into that business. We don''t want a son who can''t even protect his parent''s self-respect."

    "So, you want to throw away your son for status?" Seeing the middle-aged woman nod, Raelle sighed out, "You can leave now. I''ll help you keep that status of yours."

    The middle-aged woman shed more tears and bowed respectfully to Raelle, "Thank you! Thank you so much! You''re indeed very considerate and just!"

    "Mom!" Mr. Zhang ran after his mother who flung his hand off.

    "Get lost! You wanted that cheap woman, keep her now!"

    With that, his mother left him behind. Raelle''s eyes had a strange light as she ended up shaking her head at this scene.

    Raelle thought about it before offering but to the madwoman called Xinxin this time. "What if I ask you to leave him?" Xinxin''s eyes widened. "If you leave the love of your life, I''m willing to help you out as well. Only you!"

    Xinxin didn''t even think before agreeing, "I agree! Please, save me!"

    Raelle gave her a mocking smile, "Didn''t you talk about your love and sacrifices? Or something about your great love? Are you really willing to leave this oh-so-great love just for the sake of saving your own self?"

    Xinxin didn''t even feel embarrassed as she answered, "I have done enough sacrifices. And I''ve heard enough insults from his parents for being just a white-cor worker. They want to bring a princess for their precious son, they can do so. I''ve had enough of this family! Now, I just want to save myself. Every man''s for themselves."

    Raelle''s brows lifted slightly before she shook her head, "That love of yours is sure very cheap, eh?" Xinxin was stunned. Raelleughed at her but herughter was just as artful as she was herself. "There is a lesson my grandfather taught me, ''Not do, not die.'' Do you know what it means?" Xinxin was silent and Raelle went on, "You must have forgotten your literature lessons. But no worries, I''m here to refresh your memory. It means, If you don''t do stupid things, you won''t end up in tragedy!"

    Her point was clear, she wouldn''t be here if she hadn''t been jealous, impulsive and so full of her love!

    Xinxin''s heart thumped violently as Raelle opened the door of her car and slid inside saying to Cloe, "Don''t ever let me see the face of such cheap people again!"

    Cloe nodded her head with aplicated look before she also got into the car and they drove away. She was quiet for a minute before she finally asked, "Chief, what was that?"

    "What?" asked Raelle.

    "Why would you waste so much time on them? That''s so not like you who cherishes her time like gold." This had been bugging her. It was really not Raelle''s style to waste her time and so many words on such insignificant people.

    Raelle looked out the window and smiled, "I was just seeing how shoddy this love really can be. People swear on the sacredness of this love and yet, they don''t even hesitate before throwing it away. A mother left her child for money and a lover didn''t hesitate to leave her love to save her life. Doesn''t this make love very tragic?"

    Cloe had no way to refute those words. She saw it with her own eyes. Whenever such things happened, it made it very difficult for her to keep preaching about love. Just as it was mentioned, whether her colors rubbed off on Raelle or not, Raelle''s beliefs had started to rub off on her. Even she began to question love now.

    Was it this easy for people to throw away their love for something else?

    People said Raelle Xiangcked nothing in life. She not only looked like a princess, she grew up as one as well. Indeed her life evoked jealousy in people. But someone like Cloe who had spent thest 6 years with her knew one thing; Raelle Xiang''s life was full but she was empty herself. One look and she could see that emptiness in Raelle''s eyes that scared her.

    And this girl who was void of emotions loved to test other''s emotions at every chance she got. But it seemed people emotion''s had only disappointed her in life. Perhaps, that''s why she was so against the idea of even understanding these emotions.

 Chapter 8 - Marrying A Stranger

    "I''ve indeed selected an incredible partner for my son."

    The head steward standing respectfully behind Shui Koshing found his master''s words startling. "Elder Master, that Young Miss is the one whom you picked for Master Xian?"

    Shui Koshing nodded his head. He had onlye out a little farther for a morning walk, who knew he would even get a chance to see such a stimting scene involving his future daughter-inw. This was undoubtedly a delightful surprise. Until now, he had only heard about Raelle and had only seen her photos. This was his first time seeing her and that too in action. He found it too thrilling.

    "Elder Master, shouldn''t you reconsider your judgment?" Shui Koshing''s brows arched slightly inquisitively. "I''m stepping out of my ce but I think she is too domineering for Master Xian."

    Shui Koshing''s lips curled up, "And that''s exactly the kind of person my son needs in his life right now. Someone overbearing like her. How else will she be able to break the ice walls around my son''s heart?" He took a small pause before adding, "Someone meek or sweet won''t be a good match for what he has be now."

    "Master Xian needs someone warm to bring back the warmth in his life," the head steward remarked cautiously.

    Shui Koshing was unconvinced as he noted earnestly, "No, my son needs someone who can oppugn his emotions and beliefs." With a faint smile gracing his lips he took the same route back home.

    He just passed the main gate leading towards the vi when a car drove past him and parked at a side. Looking at the person who came out, Shui Koshing called out, "Ma Jin, what are you doing here?"

    Ma Jin bowed to Shui Koshing before replying, "Master Xian wanted me to bring some files to him."

    Shui Koshing''s brows creased up as he tookrge strides towards the living area. On the leather sofa, Shui Xian wasnguidly enjoying his morning coffee while reading business news on his iPad.

    "Xian!" Shui Koshing''s stern voice called out.

    "Yes, dad!" came the reply almost instantly. Shui Xian looked at his father and frowned, "What took you so long? I''ve been waiting for you over breakfast."

    Shui Koshing pointed towards Ma Jin, "What is he doing here? It''s the Lunar New Year. If I remember correctly, he should be on a flight to get to his family. And you''re making him work?"

    "Elder Master," started Ma Jin when he noticed the tension created because of him. "Master isn''t making me work. My family is traveling for this holiday and I didn''t think it''d be worthwhile to go back. That''s why I proposed to help."

    "Still, it''s your break," retorted Shui Koshing and turned to his son. "Why are you looking at me like that?"

    Shui Xian sighed out, "Jin, leave the documents and you can enjoy your holiday."

    "Master..." Ma Jin knew his protest won''t work. Even if he wished to work now that his Master Xian has spoken, he couldn''t possibly go against it.

    Since the time Shui Xian had taken over the business, he had been rigorous, serious, and responsible. He was a strict superior who expected the best from his employees. And only the best was eptable to him as well. However, he wouldn''t bully his subordinates ever. If it wasn''t that Ma Jin really didn''t want to go on a holiday, he''d have never asked him to bring the documents no matter how important.

    Ma Jin ced the files on the marble coffee table before saying, "Then I wish you both a happy new year!" With that, he turned around and left.

    Shui Xian didn''t pay attention to him leaving as he was still focused on reading the finance news online. Even when Shui Koshing came back after taking a shower, his son was still sitting in the same posture, doing the same thing.

    Shaking his head, he asked, "How many cups of coffee have you had till now?"

    "This is my third," replied Shui Xian with a straight face.

    Silence fell in the spacious living room. Shui Xian noticed the silence and looked up. His father was still sitting before him but seemed to hesitate again.

    "Dad, why are you so careful around me?"

    "When sons grow up, fathers need to learn to be cautious with words," replied Shui Koshing.

    Shui Xian put his iPad down and faced his father, "You can say anything to me. I''ll even allow you to beat me up if I''m wrong."

    Shui Koshing waved his hand, "No, I don''t feel good beating a grown-up son. You''re twenty-nine now. I can''t even think of touching you anymore." Taking a pause he added, "But I was wondering if you checked the photos of the girls I sent you?"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "I didn''t."

    "Why? Are you going back on your words?" Shui Koshing''s voice raised a little.

    "I''m not going back on my words. It''s just that I told you already, you can choose the girl yourself. I won''t interfere at all. I''ll put my trust in your pick."

    "Why don''t you just simply say you don''t even care who you marry now?"

    Shui Xian didn''t refute his words instead spoke softly, "It really doesn''t matter to me now."

    "Fine then. I have chosen the right match for you," announced Shui Koshing. "And a week after the Lunar New Year, you''ll get married to her."

    Shui Xian''s perfect brows creased a little. It had been months since his father brought up this conversation. He actually thought his father forgot about it but it seems it was his own wishful thinking. But now that his father found a match, he is in a hurry to get him married. But what did it matter if he married today or a monthter? It was all the same to him, so he didn''t say anything to upset his father.

    "I''ll do as you say," he answered respectfully.

    Shui Koshing calmed down a little and said, "I wanted you to meet her once before the marriage but it might not be possible now. I just received the message that she went out of the country." He peered at his son''s side profile and asked, "Won''t you like to see her photo?"

    "No, I''m good," he had no interest in seeing a photo. He couldn''t possibly know a person''s personality through a photo. But with his personal experience he would like to say that even if you knew someone for years, it didn''t guarantee that you knew thempletely. Sometimes, people living under the same roof could be strangers. Marrying a stranger didn''t seem like that bad of an idea to him.

    "I''ve asked the kitchen staff to make your favorite dumplings," told Shui Koshing excitedly.

    Shui Xian forced out a soft smile and asked, "Dad, you do know that Shui Sying is in the city, right?"

    Shui Koshing''s movements paused before he resumed his action of sipping on his tea as he said, "Yes, I did learn that my daughter is back in the country through media. How interesting that the media knew my daughter''s movements better than me, her father."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips before saying, "I asked her toe home for dinner but she said she is busy with work."

    Shui Koshing snorted, "Busy? She just doesn''t want to see me." He shook his head in disappointment as he went on, "It doesn''t matter. It''s enough that you''re here with me for this holiday. Soon, I''ll also have my daughter-inw. Then our family will beplete."

    Since his father didn''t want to discuss it, he won''t push it either. Besides, the matter between his father and his sister was just between them. It was better if he kept his distance from it. He knew if he got involved, he''d have to choose sides and he didn''t want to do that.

    As for his marriage again, he had no opinions at all. As he said, marrying a stranger was a lot better. At least, he won''t have any expectations. So, even if something went wrong, he would still be able to protect his heart.

 Chapter 9 - A Piece Of That

    ~Ecstacy Nightclub~

    The nightclub was just as ngorous as it always had been. Rainbow lights, loud music invited people to move along the heavenly vibe. Through the crowded space, Raelle weaved her way towards the bar counter. Cloe was having difficulty following her around.

    She was very perplexed about why Raelle suddenly thought abouting to a nightclub. This was so not the ce where she would have expected her boss toe. Although this was a high-end nightclub, it still didn''t fit with the image of Raelle Xiang who avoided wasting time over worldly pleasures.

    Raelle slid onto the barstool. She leaned on the bar, her ck hair lying over one shoulder. As her head lolled to one side, Cloe also took a seat beside her saying, "Chief, what are you up to?"

    Raellepletely disregarded her question and waved at the bartender. The bartender was there to take her order in a sh, eyes dropping only momentarily to her low-cut neckline.

    "I''ll have a cosmopolitan and a martini for her," she ordered for herself and for Cloe as well.

    "Chief, are you not listening?" Cloe questioned as soon as the bartender went to fetch their drinks. "Or you''re just not interested in answering as always?"

    "I can hear you. Stop being so loud!" came the reply from Raelle. Although the music was ring in the nightclub, she still thought Cloe was talking too loud. Taking a pause, she answered, "Don''t you always say I should enjoy myself? Here I am! Enjoying myself!"

    Cloe''s face twitched at that bullshit reply. "Chief, your definition of enjoyment had never involved ''nightclub!'' What exactly are you up to?"

    Before she could get a reply from Raelle, she watched as an arm wrapped around Raelle''s waist from behind, and her chair was turned around to face the tall man. The man wore a ck hat, a mask, and even put a hoodie over it. He looked very suspicious. But before she could do anything, Raelle''s hand gesture told her to step away leaving her in disbelief.

    The man''s hand lifted to tuck Raelle''s hair behind her ear as his raspy voice rang out, "Hi, beauty! I drove to the nightclub but now it seems I lost my way and ended up at a museum because you truly are a work of art."

    "Really?" was Raelle''s oh-so-not amused reply.

    "Really!" he replied. "In this ocean of people, my eyes still settled on you. It must be destiny!"

    "Well, that''s a given," said Raelle. "After all, I believe people are gonna stare. I should make it worth their while."

    His face came close to Raelle''s ear as he questioned, "What would the beauty like to have?"

    "Are you on the menu?" she retorted and he paused briefly.

    It took every single cell of his body to continue this as he lifted down his mask and heard her saying, "Oh, you look like a cake. Now, I definitely would like a piece of that."

    "Pffff!" Cloe was almost on the verge of dying now from shock. She got it that this handsome young man was flirting with her boss which was very normal but howe her boss was actually going along with it? Even till now, Raelle hadn''t rejected his touch which had shaken Cloe''s beliefs. She not only pushed him away, she was even flirting back!

    What am I? Who am I? Where am I? I must be in an alternate universe!

    The man''s perfectly made brows arched up in amusement as his thumb touched her soft lips and said, "How strange... I''ve been thinking of having a bite as well." With that, his head leaned over. The distance between his thin pink lips and hers was just enough to put a sheet of paper between them. However, Raelle hadn''t pulled away instead she gazed at him with a challenging gaze. Seeing the provocation in her eyes, he rolled his eyes and pushed her away saying, "I hate you! You''re never fun to y with!"

    Raelle pivoted her chair to face the bar counter where her drink was ced and replied, "I yed along just as you always wanted me to. But you still didn''t like it. How is that my fault?"

    The young man raked his fingers through his thick hair and sighed out before taking a seat beside her. Under the lights of the nightclub, his fair skin seemed exquisite. Almond-shaped eyes, elegant brows, sexy lip line, and handsome facial contour. He looked to be about twenty-four or five and still had a boyish charm about him.

    Cloe finally came around and questioned, "Chief, you know him?"

    "You don''t need to pay him any attention," replied Raelle.

    "Hey! You can''t treat your best friend like this!" The young man protested.

    "Best friend? My boss doesn''t even have friends!"

    The young man seemed proud as he announced, "I''m an exception. But it is all thanks to me. It''s because I''m such an understanding and patient person that we managed to keep this friendship for years."

    Raelle didn''t want him to continue, "Hyson, what are you doing here in G country? You don''t have to spend the new year at home?"

    Hyson sighed out, "It''s just how things are. My agency organized the concert, I couldn''t back off. But I''m leaving tomorrow. That''s why I called you out." He took a brief pause to get a drink for himself before adding, "If I wait for you to call me out to meet, I might have to wait till next life."

    Raelle shrugged her shoulders nonchntly, "Who told you to insist on having a troublesome friend like me?"

    Hyson said irritably, "Yes, yes, it''s all my fault for having a robot like you as my best friend." He shook his head and gulped down his whiskey before asking for a refill. "I heard you moved to H country?" Raelle nodded her head slightly. "So much for being best friends! You didn''t even tell me! I get it that I had been traveling around the world because of concerts but you could have at least let me know that you moved to my country."

    "Didn''t think it was important," said Raelle calmly.

    "Just say, you didn''t think I''m important!"

    "Whatever makes you feelfortable," Raelle didn''t bother saying her piece which frustrated him even more.

    "You know once in a while, you should exin yourself!"

    "Waste of time," came the prompt reply.

    Seeing the interaction between them. Cloe was momentarily lost. She had always thought she knew everything about her boss but then where did this friende out from? Howe she knew nothing about him? Although Raelle''s replies were very short and seemed distant, Cloe could tell that that wasn''t the case.

    With Raelle''s personality, she''d never bother even answering someone unimportant to her. And let''s not forget, this young man had been so close to her earlier but she didn''t push him away like she usually would do. Since she didn''t reject his touch, Cloe had all the more reason to believe that they were closer than they appeared to be.

 Chapter 10 - Whatâ€™s In Stores

    With Raelle''s keen perception she had noticed the way Cloe''s expressions had been changing since Hyson showed up. And she also knew why Cloe was so shocked. She and Hyson rarely met even though they had known each other for years but he was still someone very close to her. At least, that''s what he thought.

    To her, he was just sticky bubblegum, she identally stepped on but now she was unable to get rid of him. His convivial personality and her austere personality were supposed to be in disharmony and yet, they had be friends.

    "Let me introduce you," began Raelle. "He is Yue Fai. Personal name Yue Fai, stage name Hyson. He is a member of a boyband." She looked at Hyson before adding, "He is the bad boy of the group since he is bad at everything."

    "Hey!" Hyson eximed in protest while ring at her.

    Cloe''s brows arched up as she shook her hand with Hyson and said, "So, you''re an artist?"

    Hyson shrugged his shoulders nonchntly with a carefree smile before saying, "It''s nice to finally meet you, Miss Cloe. I''ve heard a lot about you."

    "Chief actually mentioned me?" Cloe was excited to hear this.

    Hyson felt bad for her as he said, "Do you really think this economical person would say something that doesn''t benefit her?"

    Cloe''s eyes dimmed down as she agreed, "That''s true. She loves scrimping even in her words." Heaving a sigh, she gulped down her martini and jumped down from the bar stool saying, "I''m gonna dance my disappointment away. Have fun!"

    Honestly speaking, she just felt like she was disrupting them and took her chance to step aside. Even from far away, she could see that Raelle looked very rxed right now with him. There wasn''t a hint of her practiced smile on her face which meant that she was being herself before him. That practiced smile was to fool people around her, but with him, she didn''t need to put up a front. She could just be herself.

    This new piece of information changed Cloe''s perception of her boss.

    "When I asked you how your blind dates are going, you said, no more. So, does that mean now you don''t have to scheme to get rid of those blind dates?"

    Raelle perched her chin on the heel of her hand and replied, "No more nning. I haven''t had to suffer through it for four months now."

    "Wow! I actually thought your grandfather would win this battle of wits," his tone showed his admiration and his surprise.

    She folded one leg over the other; dangling her high heels, showing more leg; yet her face said aloof and disinterested. "Do you really think my Op¨¤ gave up?" she questioned calmly. "It''s the peace that makes me wonder what storm is about to befall."

    Hyson stared carefully at her face and suddenly burst outughing, "He''s nning to trap you." It took him a while to control hisughter. "He''s been giving you a chance all this while."

    "His purpose for arranging all those blind dates was simple; he thought at least one of those men would be able to catch my attention and I might fall in love."

    "Poor him! He only wants his one and only granddaughter to fall in love." Hyson tutted feeling sad for her grandfather.

    "One and only granddaughter?" repeated Raelle in a soft voice. She immediately shook her head and went on, "Then it''s really a pity because I am not interested in something disastrous like love."

    Hyson didn''t want to start this conversation with her. He never did actually. He knew he could never make her realize the importance of feelings by just his words. She had to feel it herself. Maybe that''s why he actually managed to be a part of her life because he never lectured her about emotions and feelings.

    Although their views didn''t align, however, he never questioned her beliefs just like she never questioned his beliefs.

    "By the way, why did you choose to meet at a nightclub? Isn''t it more risky here? What if you''re photographed with me?"

    Hyson instantly pulled up his mask, acting sneaky he said, "Oh, right. I should be careful. Being on the front page with your ugly face beside me will ruin my image."

    "Are you really craving for a beating?" she retorted.

    "Hitting means kissing, scolding means loving. So, bring it on!" He even leaned over as if allowing her to hit him already.

    Raelle had be long ustomed to his antics. It didn''t even surprise her as it used to do in the beginning.

    "You can never let go of any chance to flirt, can you?"

    "I really can''t," he replied helplessly. "Since you''re the epitome of tranquility, I have to be the epitome of mayhem to be your match. How else would we keep the bnce in this friendship?" Seeing how shepletely ignored his words again, he sighed out, "How long are you gonna stay here?"

    "I''m also leaving tomorrow," replied Raelle. "I''ve already dealt with everything. Since both my Op¨¤ and Yanyan insisted that Ie back early, I''m actually looking forward to going back."

    "Looking forward? To what exactly?" he enquired.

    "I have to see what have they nned for me," she replied. "I should be a good sport and cooperate well with them. Don''t have to drag this any longer than necessary."

    "That''s right. Someone like you wouldn''t want to drag this type of things unnecessarily." He looked at her earnestly before he stood up, "I should be leaving now before my manager realizes that I sneaked out of the hotel. Let''s go out on a movie date when youe back."

    "Who wants to see a movie with you?" retorted Raelle. "Besides, why would I want to waste 90 minutes of my life watching people put on a act? It''s not only waste of time but also money!"

    Hysonughed at her in amusement as he said, "It''s cute when you try to resist my ideas. Let''s not forget, if I can get you toe to a nightclub, I can certainly pull you out for a movie date."

    "Scram!" was all she said and watched him leave. She heaved a long sigh as her manicured finger traced the seam of her ss and whispered, "Let''s see what Op¨¤ has in stores for me this time around."

 Chapter 11 - Is This Seat Taken?

    ~Xiang Vi~

    The mood in the living room was unsettling. There was a staring battle going on between Raelle and her grandfather. She had just rushed back homest night and this morning, she was given a big present - an announcement of her uing marriage.

    After seeing that her grandfather was very inflexible regarding this matter, she couldn''t helpughing out. There was no sobriety in thatughter. This was rather to show how well she understood her grandfather. Since he couldn''t get her to fall in love, he''d choose the next best thing; a rtionship she had to be loyal to.

    Was it mentioned that Raelle Xiang had been a very loyal person? In fact, she valued loyalty the most. No matter if it was work or a rtionship, she''d be wholly devoted to it. That was one emotion, she was willing to invest in. Because ording to her, this investment was worthwhile.

    "You don''t agree?" questioned Grandfather Xiang with a straight face but Raelle could see his despairing implore behind his words. He didn''t want her to run from this. He really was serious about this one. He wasn''t just trying his luck as he did before with those blind dates. He was very certain this time.

    As always, Raelle still couldn''t bring herself to say ''no'' to this one person. She always thought that her grandfather lost a lot for her sake, so the least she could do for him was to make him happy in any way. If he had been serious about those blind dates, she would have never dared to y those games. But this time, since he was serious, she wouldn''t dare to back off either.

    Shaking her head, she spoke up, "I just have one question." Grandfather Xiang raised his brow in question and she went on, "Why? Why do you want me to get married?"

    Grandfather Xiang operated the controller to wheel his wheelchair close to Raelle''s seat and held her hands in his own saying, "You''re just born when I held you in my arms. From that day, I only had one wish to bring you everything."

    "I know," she replied.

    "But I also had another wish to give you aplete family." Raelle''s face stiffened when she heard that response. He caressed her face saying, "But I could never do that. I couldn''t give you theplete family that you deserved. So, the next best thing I could think of was for you to build your own family, with your husband and your own kids."

    Raelle bobbed her head up and down slowly before she opened her mouth to agree, "Okay."

    Both Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan were taken aback. Did she just agree? Just like that? Nothing else? They both were in disbelief but Raelle had no time to exin why she agreed to this readily. Because, to her, the reason was still as simple as always; she''d do anything for her grandfather.

    She stood up to leave when Mu Chenyan came back to herself and asked, "Don''t you want to know about him?"

    Raelle stopped and turned around to ask, "Is he handsome?"

    Mu Chenyan squinted her eyes at her, "Is that the most important thing?"

    Raelle didn''t even hesitate before nodding her head, "He should be pleasing to my eyes before anything else. After all, I''m gonna spend my life with him." Mu Chenyan gaped at her in disbelief. "Yanyan, if you''re done appreciating me, can you pleasee and help me with the dress up?"

    "Where are you going?" questioned Mu Chenyan.

    "I have a new year party to attend tonight," she replied before turning back to make her way towards her room.

    Before Mu Chenyan could say anything, Grandfather Xiang stopped her. With a profound look, he said, "I heard Shui Xian is also attending a new year party tonight."

    Mu Chenyan instantly understood and nodded her head before following Raelle to help her with her ''dress up''.

    ....

    ~Oriental Hotel~

    This was Elle''s first time attending any kind of party in H Country. Since the time she moved here, she had been solely focused on work. Things likeworking had been too troublesome for her. But this time, it was different.

    Her thinking was something along the lines of... "I''m on someone else''s territory. A lone warrior. If I want to rule this pack of wolves, I first need to blend in their territory and observe my prey. Haste is waste. I''m a patient person. I will take my time before taking over this territory."

    She was wearing a red off-shoulder high low evening dress with ckce around the waist. The front of the dress reached just under her knees while the back part was like a re touching her feet.

    Her hair was tied in a beautiful braid and her bright red lipstick stood out the most on her striking features. She showed her invitation card and was given a mask. Raelle''s beautiful brows knitted slightly, no one told her this was a masquerade party. However, she found it more interesting because now she could easilyy low and observe everything.

    She put on the ckce mask and entered the grand hall. Inside there was a crowd of men and women sitting together or mingling around with drinks in their hands. The wealthy young master had their arms around beautiful women and even men apanying them! As for those old geezers, even they had young beautifuldies hanging on their arms. Everyone was eitherughing or having a good time making connections.

    Her whole body felt ufortable in this ce but she pushed herself to stay. Her eyes wandered around to look for an inconspicuous seat with a good view. She finally locked on a target!

    It wasn''t really an unobtrusive corner but there was only one man sitting there with a wine ss in his hand. From what little face she could see of his, she could tell he was looking rather calm. So, without any hesitation, she walked over.

    It wasn''t just because he was the only person sitting there. It was because she had seen how no one dared to go close to him. Even though he was sitting in between all these shy people, there seemed to be an invisible between him and other people.

    So, she simply became that daring person who sat down beside him and exhaled a long breath saying in a low voice, "It''s difficult to find a quiet ce around here."

    The hall was noisy and no one had really noticed Raelle presence in the beginning. But as soon as she took a seat, it was as if everyone''s shocked eyes moved in her direction. She obviously noticed that abnormality but didn''t care.

    However, when she noticed that the upant of the seat beside her was also looking at her, she turned around and tucked her lips up as she questioned, "Is this seat taken?"

 Chapter 12 - Enjoying The View

    Shui Xian rarely attended these gatherings or parties. But just for civility, he''d still show up once in a blue moon. Today happened to be that once in a blue moon.

    As they say, ''Life may not be the party we hoped for, while we are here, we should dance.''

    Shu Xian was exactly following that saying in life. Since he had to interact with people in this circle, then it wasn''t harmful to give them face once in a while either. It wasn''t much of an effort. Besides, only appearing rarely, he also never stayed till the end. He''d juste to give some face to the host and leave silently.

    But who knew one day at one of these parties, she''d wander into his life and upy the seat right beside him without his permission, daringly without any care as if it rightfully belonged to her from the very beginning.

    When Shui Xian noticed that someone sat beside him, his brows raised up inconspicuously in surprise. He knew well about what went on in such parties. But even though he always came alone, no one still dared toe close to him. Especially the ones of the opposite gender. Almost everyone knew about his passionate rtionship with his ex-wife. And they all also knew how frigid he became after that passionate rtionship fell apart.

    Previously, right after his divorce, somedies had their own ideas and tried to get chummy with him but his coldness might have frozen them to death. Because no one after that even bothered to disturb his peace.

    However, today they all witnessed someone taking a seat beside Master Xian and were waiting to see a good show. But they were bound to be disappointed. After all, even though Shui Xian was cold, he had manners. He would never be rude to the fairer sex at least not unless they tried something first.

    "Is this seat taken?"

    When he heard this question, he took a moment to gaze into the girl''s pitch-ck eyes. The distinct ck and white of her eyes looked dazzling under the lights. He slowly parted his lips and said, "You''re already sitting. Why bother questioning now?"

    Raelle had to agree, "That''s correct. Now that I''m sitting here, the seat belongs to me." She leaned back in her seat and noticed how everyone''s eyes were still trained on her. But she was very unfamiliar with these people. It didn''t make sense. Why would they be staring at her? Slowly, her brows wrinkled and she looked straight at Shui Xian''s side profile.

    He was elegantly sipping on his red wine as his amber eyes darted aroundnguidly. He seemed nonchnt but Raelle could tell that he was observing everything. He had a strong presence which meant he won''t be a simple character.

    This time it was Shui Xian who could feel her piercing gaze stuck to his face. So, he finally questioned, "What are you doing?"

    "Enjoying the view," she replied pleasantly.

    His head whipped around to look at her with confusion in his eyes, "Enjoying the view?"

    Raelle nodded her head, "Enjoying..." she shaped his facial contours from her position with her finger and went on, "The view!" Seeing how his lips pressed into a thin line, she sighed out, "Everyone''s eyes are on you. And you''re also sitting here like a male god sculpture so I thought maybe, I''m supposed to enjoy this art piece like everyone else."

    "Or maybe they are looking at you," he retorted in a calm voice.

    "Nope!" was her response. "There are only two possibilities. Either they are looking at you or they are looking at me because I''m sitting with you. Either way, the root cause is, you!"

    Shui Xian couldn''t refute her words. Even he knew why everyone was looking this way. Even if they were trying to be subtle, it was very obvious. He didn''t want to continue the discussion with a stranger but he still told her, "Stop paying them attention and they''ll stop paying you any attention."

    "Sounds about right," agreed Raelle.

    Seeing how the girl beside Master Xian wasn''t actually pushed away, the guests started specting her identity. They actually believed that she was Master Xian''s female partner for tonight. Although this idea seemed preposterous, however, they couldn''t think of anything else especially when they could see that Master Xian was even talking amiably to the girl beside him.

    And since Raelle sat beside Master Xian, soon the servers started treating her like an esteemed guest. Drinks and appetizers wereid out before her in a hurry.

    Raelle felt a little amused at this treatment and looked at Shui Xian again.

    "Still enjoying the view?" he asked.

    "No, now I''m appreciating this view," she replied. Shui Xian raised his brow at her as she went on, "I''m being treated like an distinguished guest, all because I''m sitting beside you. It''s making me very curious about your identity."

    "You don''t know me?" he questioned. Actually, he could already tell that she didn''t know him. It was his own very first time seeing her around. Even though she was wearing a mask and he couldn''t see her face clearly, she was certainly not someone he would forget easily. So, it was very clear that she wasn''t from around here.

    Raelle picked up a ss of red wine and swirled it slowly saying, "Now that I''m here. I''ll eventually know who you are." She took a small sip of the red wine and tasted it with closed eyes. As she opened her eyes, she sighed out, "This bold fruity taste..." Then her eyes looked at the table full of different foods and picked up a te, "This looks pretty. Are these wantons?"

    "That''s crab rangoon," informed Shui Xian.

    Raelle looked at him and nodded, "Oh... Don''t they all look simr?"

    "No," was his sort reply.

    Even though she curiously looked at everything on the table just to enhance her knowledge of things around here including food, she didn''t actually eat anything. She''d at most take a sip of the wine.

    She had no ns of talking to Shui Xian uselessly. And it seemed like he had the same idea because they both were just fine with being silent. Not only they both were perfectly fine with being silent, they also had the same thought; they had juste to look around. In a way, they both had very simr personalities; they were both people of few words.

    Raelle was taking in the sight of this party when her cellphone vibrated in her clutch. She took it out and seeing that she received a message from Mu Chenyan, she unlocked the screen. But just as she looked at the content of the message, her lips curled up ever so slightly in delight.

 Chapter 13 - Kisses Are Sweet

    The rim of the ss had just brushed against Shui Xian''s lips when he heard Raelle''s voice...

    "Hey, neighbor!"

    His movements halted ever so slightly as his eyes nced at her.

    "Do you know in all these people, who is Shui Xian?"

    Shui Xian''s brows crinkled up and his eyes shed but Raelle wasn''t looking at him at all. She looked like she was solely focused on looking for ''Shui Xian''. Not knowing that he was sitting right next to her. But Shui Xian was wondering why she was suddenly looking for him?

    "You know Master Xian?" he enquired, appearing nonchnt as if he wasn''t really wasn''t interested in this discussion at all.

    "No," she responded frankly.

    His brows jumped, "Then why are you looking for him?"

    "Obviously, to get to know him," she didn''t look overly enthusiastic, rather had a faint treacherous smile ying on her beautiful red lips. "If I won''t even know under which mask he is hiding, how will I make his acquaintance?"

    Shu Xian rubbed his chin as he asked, "And why do you want to make his acquaintance?" He took a pause and went on, "Master Xian is infamous for his temperamental personality. He is cold, has a boring personality. He is always snapping at people unjustly. Also, he is very rude to the fairer sex. It''s better to keep your distance from someone like him." Shui Xian didn''t even feel anything while badmouthing himself. Instead, he strangely felt excited in his heart for some reason. He wasn''t lying though. Those were all the things he heard people talk about him. He was simply rying it to her.

    Unexpectedly, Raelle had been listening intently to him and even looked to be in deep thought. Suddenly, she patted him on his shoulder saying, "That''s what my Op¨¤ calls a match made in heaven! He is certainly my type of a guy!"

    Shui Xian''s face twitched at her reaction. This was so not the reaction he was expecting to see. Did she take his words seriously or not? It seemed like she was thinking he was just joking.

    "I''m not badmouthing Master Xian. He is exactly like that," he insisted unnecessarily on his words.

    "I believe you," she replied with such sincere and steady gaze that Shui Xian had no words left to add. She looked around earnestly and asked again, "So, where exactly can I find this Master Xian?"

    Since this certain girl was not following the usual pattern, Shui Xian sighed out, "Why are you even looking for him? Are you also one of those girls who try to climb up the socialdder?"

    "Climb the socialdder? How?" Raelle asked innocently.

    Shui Xian was, for the very first time, having trouble finding the right words to say in his life. Although Raelle''s words sounded simple and innocent, she definitely was on the wrong route!

    "By rolling under the sheets with him," he finally found words that didn''t sound too explicit.

    Raelle tapped her chin and nodded, "That sounds like a nice idea." Shui Xian''s head turned towards her at such a speed that he might have gotten whish. His stone-cold face finally had a reaction as he gaped at her in pure disbelief. Raelle noticed his reaction and smiled at him saying, "I didn''t mean climbing the socialdder part. The other one! That rolling under the sheets... That sounds fun."

    Shui Xian rubbed his earlobe which he had a habit of doing. In his monotonous life, this was really something interesting. Or rather, she seemed interesting for some bizarre reason. Fixing his mask, he said, "That dream of yours would nevere true."

    "Wanna have a bet?" she looked at him challengingly.

    Shui Xian''s eyes narrowed before he nodded his head and said, "Let''s do it." He thought about it before adding, "But do you have to go this far?" She looked at him inquisitively and he continued, "You look like a Young Miss of a noble family. Why bother doing something like this just for money or fame?"

    Raelle suddenlyughed at him and said, "For money or fame? Mr. Neighbor, if there happens to be such a transaction, I''d be the one paying. Not the other way around."

    "Oh," Shui Xian gave her a surprised look. "Do you think you can afford Master Xian''spany for one night? Or even for an hour?"

    "Try me," was her in response.

    Shui Xian was really intrigued by this nature of hers. With how confident she looked, she definitely wasn''t just any Young Miss. But then who was she? And why was she so interested in him? The more he thought, the more he became curious to know.

    "I''d still advice you against it thought," he spoke as if he was offering some advice out of the goodness of his heart. "You really can''t afford to offend him."

    Raelle suddenly looked at him and asked with a dead serious look, "How about you? Can I offend you?"

    Shui Xian scowled at her in confusion, "What do you mean?"

    He watched her suddenly standing up anding to stand right before him. Her waist bent slightly until she was at eye level with him. Her hand held the back of his seat as she smirked, "I have a quirk. I just have to test people''s patience."

    "Your point is- omp!"

    His words stuck in his throat and his eyes widen in shock as her soft lips brushed against his. She didn''t stay for long. It was a fleeting touch and before he could bring himself to push her away, she had already pulled away from him. The smirk was still intact on her lips, it only grew wider now as she slid something in his breast pocket and patted his chest saying, "Don''t go back on that bet! And it was nice to meet you, Master Xian."

    She twirled a strand of hair and winked at him before she sashayed away. Shui Xian''s mind was nk and he wanted to run after her to teach her a lesson but for some reason, he didn''t move. Instead, he pulled out the thing she had slid into his pocket.

    It was a ck business card with a golden lining. In elegant writing, there was written, ''Raelle Xiang''. Being a businessman, he wasn''t unfamiliar with this name. In fact, he was repeatedly hearing about it in the past six months. He picked up his phone and called his father. As soon as the call connected, he asked, "Raelle Xiang is...?"

    "Oh, you met your fiancee? That''s great!"

    Shui Xian didn''t talk much and disconnected the call. His head fell backward and he covered his face with his hand. The people who had seen Raelle kissing Master Xian had been on edge. Now that they saw Shui Xian like this, they all thought he was enraged. However, they all got yet another shock when Shui Xian''s hand slid down and his smile could be seen.

    His fingers rubbed on her name on the card as he whispered, "Raelle... That''s an interesting name for an interesting person."

    .....

    Meanwhile, Raelle''s smirk was also very bright. Earlier when she had received Mu Chenyan''s message, its content only had one line, "Shui Xian... He''s sitting with you."

    For someone as smart as Raelle, it didn''t take long to understand what Mu Chenyan was trying to tell her. Even though Mu Chenyan wasn''t here, she had eyes everywhere. Especially when it had to do with Raelle, she''d make her people follow her like shadows. That''s why she knew who Raelle was sitting with and she conveniently informed her as well.

    So, the earlier talk was just Raelle''s way of learning about her future husband. And she had to say, he turned out to be very much like her. This thought made her look forward to her future days with this husband.

    As for that spontaneous kiss... She touched her lips and whispered, "I didn''t taste anything. Why did that jerk say kisses are sweet?"

 Chapter 14 - Fall Harder, Kiss Deeper

    ~Cine Theater~

    With popcorn in herp and a ss of soft drink in her hand, Raelle''s eyes were stuck on the big screen. There was darkness around and on the big screen, a mysterious scene was ying. She could hear the screams of fear echoing around her but she was solely focused on the pair of hands that squeezed her arm so tightly that her blood flow had stopped already.

    With a calm and collected look on her face, she turned her eyes at gazed at the owner of that pair of hands. Hyson had his one eye closed and he peeked at the big screen through the other eye. Even in this dim lighting, she could make out his fear.

    Somehow, it really amused her. Who told this jerk to insist on going to movies with her? He imed that since it was thest of his holiday, he wanted her to apany him to watch a movie. Although she didn''t want to agree, however, she agreed on one condition; the movie would be of her choice.

    And even though Hyson already knew she''d pick up a horror movie, he still didn''t want to give up this rare opportunity.

    When his 90 minutes of torture ended, he ran out of the movie theatre as if he was given exoneration. Raelle glimpsed at him as he resumed to gobble down the water.

    "How is water gonna help you?" she questioned bemusedly.

    "At least, I feel like I can breathe again," answered Hyson. "Water is helping me calm down. I can feel my fear, soothing down." He looked slightly rxed now. He could finally forget the ghosts and murders he just saw.

    However, Raelle obviously didn''t want to let him off so easily. Her face came close to his side as she lowered her voice and whispered eerily, "I''m every nightmare you''ve ever had. I''m your worst dreame true. I''m everything you ever were afraid of.[1]"

    "Ah!" Hyson jumped in fear and red at her. "I hate you! Why do you have to scare me like this?"

    Raelle shook her head at him, "Why are you a scaredy-cat? No... I should be asking, why am I friends with a scaredy-cat like you?"

    Hyson grumbled hatefully under his breath before saying, "Can''t you like any other genre? Why does it have to be horror?"

    Raelle sighed out, "Horror movies are fun."

    "No! They are not!" he retorted. "They are scary. That''s all. They are scary!"

    "Stephen Hawking wrote, ''We make up horrors to help us cope with the real ones.''" She took a brief pause and added, "That''s why I think those movies are fun rather than scary."

    Hyson knew he would hear some kind of intellectual reply from this best friend, and yet he bothered arguing with her. What was the point? Fear wasn''t something she could feel, along with a lot of other emotions.

    He could ept his defeat as he rubbed his chest to calm his nerves and continued to drink water. As if recalling something, he said approvingly, "By the way, the marriage bomb that your grandfather dropped didn''t even surprise me."

    "It wasn''t really a surprise," told Raelle as she sat down beside him. She recalled something and said, "You''re such a liar though. I should have never believed in your words."

    "When did I lie?" he asked acidly.

    "Didn''t you say kisses are sweet? It didn''t even have a taste."

    Hyson spurted out the water that he had yet to swallow and started coughing from how shocking her words sounded to him. Raelle didn''t pay attention to his reaction as she continued, "But then again, it was my fault for believing someone who hasn''t kissed anyone himself."

    "Who said I haven''t kissed before?" he asked angrily as if she was poking at his ego.

    She looked into his eyes as she voiced out, "Your agency doesn''t even let you talk to the opposite gender for more than two minutes. As if they''d let you have a girlfriend."

    Hyson coughed, this time to hide his flustered look. She was telling the truth about the girlfriend part but... "I did a short cameo in a drama before, I did get to kiss. So, stop attacking me!"

    Raelle looked at him as if he was a dancing monkey which was not amusing anymore. "Don''t try to fool me again. I know all about those camera angles. You definitely didn''t get to kiss anyone!"

    Hyson gnashed his teeth and eventually, his shoulders slumped down as he said, "Forget about my tragic dating life, you tell me whom did you kiss?"

    "My husband," she replied inly making him stare at her agape. "I should add future husband for now."

    "On your first meeting, you actually kissed him?" he questioned in disbelief. This was not something she would do. Initiating physical contact with someone and that too on the very first meeting? What impression did that future husband manage to leave on her? He was really curious now.

    "That''s also because of you," she replied.

    "Me? How is that also on me?" He really couldn''t tell why this matter was also on him. He was very innocent! At least, he strongly believed that he was innocent!

    "Didn''t you say that intimate rtionships begin with a kiss?"

    Hyson made a face at her. That was something he said years ago when she questioned why people kiss at their weddings? And since he was an adolescent at that time, he just randomly said some rubbish and she actually remembered it! No, she didn''t just remember it, she even acted upon it! He really didn''t know whether tough at her or cry!

    At moments like these, he really found her cute and loveable. Actually, no, he found her adorable from the very beginning. Why else would he shamelessly stick to her? It was just that her aloof nature made her seem cold. He strongly believed, she wasn''t cold. She was mostly misunderstood because of herck of empathy and sympathy. She never filtered out her words and would often sound rude or insensitive. And that''s why she even avoided talking to people and kept her distance.

    His eyes softened, and all his earlier frustration and fear was gone instantly.

    "So, how was the kiss?" he asked her.

    Raelle stared at him nkly, "Didn''t I just say, it was nd?" She even gave him details of what exactly happened at her first meeting with Shui Xian.

    Hyson ruffled her hair as heughed at her, "Idiot! That was such a half-hearted kiss. No, no, it was most likely just a peck. I won''t even consider it that either."

    "What do you mean?" she questioned in confusion.

    "To fall a little harder, you need to kiss a little deeper," was his response with a smile ying on his lips.

    [1] Raelle is quoting the dialogue from a horror movie, IT released in (1990)

 Chapter 15 - Shopping

    Raelle listened to him attentively but actually couldn''tprehend his words. Or at least, not the real connotation behind those words. Her ck eyes stared at him nkly.

    "Why would I want to fall harder?"

    Hyson''s smile vanished at Raelle''s out-of-this-world response and he ended up facepalming himself. How was he supposed to make this girl understand that by falling harder, he meant falling harder in love? Because if he worded it out for her, she''d definitely give him a scornful look.

    She was that nerd who would exin love as ''Love is just a unique blend of brain chemicals. Lust is governed by estrogen and testosterone. The attraction is driven by adrenaline, dopamine, and serotonin. As for long-term attachment, it is purely governed by oxytocin and vasopressin.''

    Yes, he had heard this science nerd talking too many times. Now, he could even recite her words. It even gave him the illusion that he was smart as well.

    "As for kissing deeper... I should do my research."

    Hyson internally rolled his eyes at her. ''Therees her nerdy self again!'' He took a breath and said, "Elle, don''t tell me you''re gonna read more books."

    "Yes, for research purposes, I have to read books to understand what you meant by that. What exactly is a deep kiss? I''ll look it up!"

    "My textbook friend, life is practical. Stop treating it like a theoretical exam. Instead of reading, start exploring more. As I said, do the practical. It might do you some good."

    Raelle still didn''t understand what he meant. She cherished her books dearly. She was who she was because of those books. It was very normal for her to search for her answers in books.

    "In fact, instead of finding life in those lifeless books, try to live it once in a while. Try to live in the moment."

    Raelle put the back of her hand over her mouth and yawned indicating how bored she was to hear him talk right now. It was already very rare for Hyson to be serious, but she had to ruin the moment by doing something like this.

    In the end, he''d curse himself for even bothering with her.

    "Let''s do some shopping," suggested Raelle as they stood up. Hyson almost fell back down at that suggestion. "What?" she questioned, seeing the odd way he was looking at her.

    He put his hat down and said, "Elle, shopping is not only a waste of time but also money."

    "Why do you have the misconception that I''m scared of wasting money?" she questioned with a straight face. "I''m scared of nothing."

    He circled around and tapped his chin thoughtfully, "Did the ghost from that movie possessed your body?" He nodded at his own conjecture, "Or it had always been within you. No wonder you''ve been haunting me for years."

    "Are you done?" she responded, unamused. He nodded immediately. "Then hurry up. I really don''t want to waste any more time."

    As they passed by a cake shop, Hyson tugged at her sleeve, "Buy me a cake."

    "Why should I?" Hyson made a pleading face. "You can buy it yourself."

    "No, I can''t," was his answer.

    "Why not?"

    "Because I''m on a diet!"

    Raelle looked him up and down before asking, "If you''re on diet, why are you asking me to buy it for you?"

    His eyes turned into slits and Raelle could tell he was grinning underneath that mask as he said, "Because if my best friend buys it for me, I''ll reluctantly ept it. It''s not nice to refuse someone''s kind gesture, so I''ll also eat it for you. See, how good I am?"

    Raelle nodded her head agreeably, "You''re certainly good at making excuses for yourself." She peeled his hand off her sleeve and added, "But it''s pity, I don''t fall for it."

    She had walked a bit farther when she heard his loud voice, "Don''t you love me anymore? How can you abandon me here over just a piece of cake? Did I ask for jewels or millions of dors? No, I only asked for a measly piece of cake!"

    "Are you done with your performance?" she asked when she saw how several passersby were looking their way now. She didn''t care about them but this idiot was supposed to care! He was a celebrity, who just loved courting death! She couldn''t protect him all the time!

    "Are you buying the cake?" he questioned looking pitiful.

    "Yes, I am buying that cake," she answered.

    He happily skipped over to her side and hugged her arm saying, "My rich friend sure has a big heart. Big wallet and a big heart. What a perfectbination! I love her the most!"

    Raelle bought the strawberry cake for him just as he wanted her to. Obviously, she didn''t like hearing him say he loved her. She felt nothing about that just like she felt nothing when he said he hated her. She looked at him and asked, "Do you love me or this cake?"

    Hyson immediately snatched the cake from her hand and said, "You can''tpare the two." He took a bite of the cake and felt immensely pleased. "After the scare, I received from that horror movie, my heart was definitely craving this heavenly sweetness. A sweet strawberry is certainly the perfect cure for the turbulent heart!"

    He looked at the way they were going asked, "Where are we going? I mean what do you want to buy?"

    Raelle was randomly looking around in this shopping district when her eyes caught sight of a store name and she said, "Let''s go there."

    Hyson looked over, the store was named, ''Moonlight''. It was one of thergest jewelry brands in not just H Country but also in Asia. The brand had not just fine jewelry, elegant watches but also crystal creationsmemorating the brand''s tradition.

    "What are you buying?" he asked curiously.

    "I haven''t even seen anything yet. How am I supposed to know what I am gonna buy?" Saying that she entered the outlet store. Hyson naturally followed her but he was stopped.

    "Sir, you can''t bring eatables inside," he was told by the professional staff.

    "You want me to throw away my cake? No way!"

    Raelle looked back at him and said, "You continue to eat then. Come inside when you''re done. I''ll look around till then."

    "Sounds good," replied Hyson without any hesitation at all. He was more than happy to apany his cake first. After all, he also had his priorities. And right now, this heavenly delicacy was his main priority. It''d be sphemous to ignore it.

 Chapter 16 - Wedding Rings

    Earlier that day...

    ~Shui Residence~

    Shui Koshing was arranging the books neatly on the bookshelf that was already filled with books. This was his personal library and it was something he cherished like a prized possession. He never let the servants clean this ce up as he thought that only he could give these treasured books the immacte care and attention they required.

    After everything that changed in his life, these were the onlypanions he had been left with, at this age. So, he cherished these books all the more.

    The servant brought his Maojian tea along with some light snacks and ced it silently on the table. As the servant was about to leave, Shui Koshing inquired, "Has Xian left?"

    The servant bowed his head and replied differentially, "No, Elder Master. Master Xian is still in his study."

    Shui Koshing nodded his head saying, "Tell him toe to see me."

    "Yes, Elder Master!"

    The servant left the room with his head lowered.

    After he was done arranging the books, he came to sit at the grey colored sofa and poured himself a cup of tea. He had just lifted the cup of tea to take a sip when he heard the unhurried steps of his son.

    Finally, when Shui Xian entered the home library inspired by the smokey tones, the premium handmade leather shoes of his stepped lightly on the carpet and didn''t make a sound. He was dressed in a pair of neatly pressed pants with aplementary expensive shirt. He exuded a sense of cool charm.

    He took a seat beside his father and asked, "You have something to talk about?"

    Shui Koshingnguidly sipped on his tea as if he wasn''t at all in a hurry to talk. Of course, he could see that his son was in a hurry but didn''t affect him in any way.

    Shui Xian also silently looked at the side profile of his father. The man''s appearance was still handsome and bright as before, but the passage of time had made him look even more steady and mild, like a finely aged wine that had settled after time. Once he used to emanate a powerful aura filled with vigor, but now he was unwittingly tender.

    Sometimes, Shui Xian himself couldn''t believe the change in his father''s temperament. But then again, he also changed in a way that he was unable to recognize himself. How could he question his father''s change anymore? It was just that with the passage of time, everyone was meant to change.

    "You didn''t tell me anything after meeting your fianc¨¦e," Shui Koshing finally spoke up in a gentle tone.

    "I''m a little taken aback," replied Shui Xian honestly. "I didn''t think you''d have chosen Raelle Xiang as my life partner." His gaze was probing as he continued, "She is not only the CEO of Wanda Enterprises but also the chairwoman of the board of Xiang conglomerate. Are you looking for business coboration?"

    Shui Koshing''s gaze turned hard and his tone harshened a bit as well, "I don''t think my son needs a marriage to aggrandize his business." He took a deep breath and borated, "I just personally think she''d make a perfect match for you." Shui Xian''s brows arched ever so slightly in question as his father went on, "She is not only tenacious, spirited, but even her dominance matches with you perfectly."

    Shui Xian looked calm as heard this. He actually thought his father would look for a young miss from a noble family that had a sweet and mild temperament. Obviously, that kind of person wouldn''t make a good match for him but he still didn''t expect his father to choose someone like Raelle as well.

    "There are some rumors about her," began Shui Xian thoughtfully. "They say Raelle Xiang values profits beyond anything. If something brings value, she''ll keep it. If something doesn''t bring her any value, she''ll cast it away. She is heartless and insensitive."

    "There are a lot of rumors about you in the business world as well," retorted Shui Koshing. "Does that mean all the rumors are true? Of course, not!" Shui Xian didn''t interrupt his father and silently but attentively listened. "Although Raelle indeed values profits, she values loyalty even more. As for casting things away, that''s not her style. If something really doesn''t bring her any value, she''d make sure to work hard and extract value from it."

    Shui Xian eyed his father, "How do you know her so well?"

    "You don''t need to know that," replied Shui Koshing. "Anyway, just let me know your opinion. Are you still going ahead with this marriage or not?"

    "When did I say I''m backing out?" questioned Shui Xian monotonously. However, his father could see a light behind those unfathomable eyes of his.

    "So, you''re serious about it?" asked Shui Koshing, and seeing his son nodding, he heaved a sigh of relief. "Then I only have one request... Please, give her the respect she deserves as your wife." Shui Xian was a little surprised that his father said something like this. "I know you can''t offer her a ce in your heart. But I do hope, you don''t treat her like an unwanted wife."

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched at his father''s remark, "I''d never do that. Of course, I''ll treat her just as a husband is supposed to treat his wife. You can rest assured."

    Since he said it himself, Shui Koshing could put his heart to rest now. His son had never gone against his own words. So, it was reassuring to see that his son was willing to give this marriage a chance. He was willing to give Raelle a chance and also himself. It truly made him very happy.

    "So, did you buy the wedding ring for her?" asked Shui Koshing but the nk look on his son''s face made his mood dampen. "Are you gonna ask your assistant to buy your wedding rings or you''re not even nning on buying it all together? I understand that we are not holding a wedding ceremony but how can you forget the wedding rings?"

    Shui Xian parted his lips but nothing came out. He had no excuse for this. He really had forgotten about this. "Sorry, it really didn''te to my mind." Before his father, he didn''t mind epting his mistake or acting humble.

    "Well, now that I have reminded you. What are you gonna do?"

    Shui Xian stood up promptly, "I''ll be going to do this right now!"

 Chapter 17 - Buy This. Buy That. Buy It All?

    ~Moonlight Outlet~

    Just as Raelle stepped inside the store, she was weed by the proficient, deferent, and well-mannered staff. They were wearing cream-colored uniforms with golden details. In fact, the whole store was decorated in neutral tones. And the dazzling light of the gems gave this whole store a morous feeling.

    Even the exquisite chandelier above was made of crystals. Rows and rows of beautiful jewelry, watches, other essories were lined up. It was certainly like walking into a gems dreand.

    "Miss, how may I help you?" asked one of the shop attendants behind the ss counter.

    Raelle focused her eyes on her and replied, "I''m looking for something I can give as a present."

    "What kind of a gift do you have in mind? For instance, pendants, bracelets, earrings, watches, or anything special you have in mind?"

    When given so many options, Raelle felt a little taken aback. Did she have to choose from all that? It was like a multiple-choice question that she didn''t know an answer for. This was the reason she wanted that idiot Hyson toe with her. But now, that idiot was outside eating his cake. He didn''t even hesitate before abandoning her over his cake.

    Raelle stared at the smiling attendant and said, "How about you show me the best of everything? I''ll make up my mind after seeing everything."

    "Miss, why don''t you take a seat over there and I''ll bring everything to you?"

    Raelle looked over at the sitting area where somedies were already sipping on tea while they looked at the expensive new collection. She didn''t want to go over. She was fine where she was.

    "I''m fine here," she shed her perfect smile.

    Although Raelle was dressed in in jeans and an oversized knit, however, the shop attendant didn''t dare to treat her as just anyone. One, their boss always said that the employees were the face of the brand and their manners should be impable. Two, although Raelle was low-key, the tinum pendant adorned with the famous ''pink star'' diamond that she wore was enough to show her status.

    The shop attendant had immediately caught on to the special pendant because of its unique style. It had a special design of a butterfly trio with a cascading crescent moon motif. The crescent moon was adorned with the pink star diamonds. While the crescent moon represented dreams, the butterflies were given a symbol of rebirth and change. This delicate artistic pendant was that''s why named, Dream of Change.

    As for how the shop attendant knew about this... This was one of the original''s created by the founder of their brand. She wouldn''t mistake it even if she wanted to. After all, the pendant was auctioned at a whopping price!

    She differentially went around and brought the best of the best from the newest collection and lined it up before Raelle on the ss counter. Soon, the manager also came to greet Raelle, not wanting to offend her. After all, if she wore that pendant, it was obvious that she was not to be trifled with and they couldn''t afford to slight her in any way.

    As for Raelle, she was so ustomed to people treating her like this that she didn''t even find it odd anymore. But the collection that theyid before her was really giving her some trouble. How was she supposed to pick only one thing from all these pretty things? Buy this rose gold watch? Or buy that tinum ear cuff? She''d rather just buy it all to save herself some trouble. But if she did that, her grandfather won''t be happy.

    She rummaged out her phone and dialed Hyson''s number. "Where are you? Why aren''t youing inside already?" She could hear his harsh breathing as if he was running and it didn''t her a moment to catch on, "Don''t tell me someone recognized you?"

    "I really didn''t think I''d find a fan when I was just eating a cake. Can you believe it? It got so crowded instantly that I had to run away. Sorry! I don''t think I cane back!" Said Hyson in tried to catch his breath. "I''m thirsty after running so much."

    "I left you for five minutes and you got yourself in trouble?"

    "My luck is really not good," replied Hyson.

    "You''re the most useless friend!" said Raelle but she didn''t sound annoyed at all. Her voice was still as leveled as before and it still sounded pleasing. "Now, how am I gonna decide what to buy?"

    "I have an idea," he spoke up.

    "What?"

    "Just close your eyes and put a finger on one. Leave it all to fate," suggested Hyson with a grin stered on his lips. Even though he was hiding from his fans, he still had the time and mood to joke around with her. "Or, you can just do Eeny, meeny, miny, moe. It always helps me when I can''t decide the vor of my ice cream."

    "Scram!" was thest thing Raelle said before she hung up. Meanwhile, Hyson had burst outughing at her reaction.

    After hanging up, Raelle looked at the things before her all over again as she listened about the unique designs, perfect and delicate craftsmanship, and the material used. She looked at the shop attendant and said, "Oh, you''re a girl as well."

    The shop attendant was taken aback. Did she just realize her gender?

    Raelle borated immediately, "I mean, you''re a girl so I can take your suggestion. So, just for a moment, forget your identity, and just as a girl tell me, which one of these would you like to receive as a gift?"

    "Miss, all of these are our finest crafts..."

    Before she could continue, Raelle stopped her, "I asked you a very simple question. Don''t try to sell this to me. I know everything is not only beautiful but also delicately created. But what I want to know is which one you like personally. One that you would want to save money to buy."

    The shop attendant pursed her lips and hesitated but before Raelle''s eyes, she couldn''t help lifting her finger and pointed at a pendant. "This pendant with heart looped through infinity represents, Forever Love. I personally would love to have this."

    Raelle, for the first time, picked something and touched it carefully as she said, "Indeed. Girls do love things like these. Alright then, I''ll have this."

    As she stretched her hand to give it back to the shop attendant, someone else snatched it from her hand rudely and Raelle heard a delicate voice saying, "This looks beautiful. I want this."

 Chapter 18 - Messing Around

    Raelle stared at her empty hand and blinked. She slowly turned her head and noticed that it was the same girl who had been in store for a while with her two minions.

    The shily dresseddy looked at the shop attendant in dissatisfaction, "Why didn''t I see this collection? Is this how you treat your loyal customers?" Her gaze fell on the exquisite collectionid before Raelle and her face warped. She threw Raelle a hostile look and pushed her shoulder saying, "Move aside."

    Raelle''s eyes were stuck on her shoulder where this girl just touched. She couldn''t describe what she felt but she certainly didn''t like it. Because of Raelle''s peculiar disposition, she needed to mentally prepare herself before touching anyone. That''s why she hated these surprises that would leave her with a strange stifling.

    "Xiaye, this is so beautiful. This must be the newest collection," said one of the girls behind this rude young miss.

    "It seems they showed you the old collection. How disrespectful!" The other one also added fuel to the fire. Obviously, she had to please this ostentatious and proud young miss.

    "This pendant is certainly made for our Xiaye," minion number 1 said.

    "Yes yes. Only our Xiaye is able to enhance this pendant''s beauty."

    Raelle''s eyes were now stuck on this arrogant young miss who was basking in the praises of these minions she kept around. She was really a vain person. Obviously, Raelle didn''t have the habit of starting a fight or use her status to put others down.

    She really was like an aloof immortal who was far above these things. However, this immortal had a way to deal with people who didn''t know their ce.

    For instance, these minions who red at her when she spoke to the shop attendant, "Help me pack this up, thank you!"

    Young Miss Xiaye looked at Raelle maliciously and said to the shop attendant, "Didn''t I say I want it?"

    The shop attendant was actually more willing to listen to Raelle. Not just because she could tell her status was far above this Young Miss who caused trouble just because she had an influential father. But also because Raelle''s well-mannered, calm demeanor had really brought a good feeling.

    "Sorry, Miss Le. But this pendant is from our limited editions. There were only 5 produced and this is the only one with our store at the moment," replied the shop attendant.

    "Then that''s all the more reason for me to have this," said Le Xiaye conceitedly. "Something like this is meant to be my, Le Xiaye''s possession."

    "Miss Le, but this customer already selected it," informed the shop attendant. Her demeanor wasn''t shaken at all because of Xiaye''s chutzpah. She still looked deferential and mannerly.

    "Are you trying to talk back with our Xiaye?" The minions again jumped in.

    "Don''t forget who our Xiaye is. Do you want to lose your job?"

    It seemed these minions were not satisfied with just this as they turned to Raelle and one of them pushed Raelle again. "And who even is this girl? Which hole did she crawl out from?"

    "Don''t touch," said Raelle. That was all she was willing to say to insignificant people. It was a fair warning in her calm voice but the smile on her face had vanished leaving behind a dreadful impassivity.

    "Huh! Who do you think you are? You''re gonna fight with our Xiaye for this pendant? Can you even afford to offend her?"

    "No no. Can you even afford to buy anything in this store? First, look at yourself before picking a fight with the wrong person."

    When Raelle had been pushed again, she took a deep breath and said, "I said, keep your hands to yourself. Don''t cryter that I didn''t warn you."

    This time Le Xiaye stepped up herself and stood before Raelle as if she was the master of this world. And everyone else was just her servants meant to serve her. She had been pleased with how her minions treated Raelle and felt ted. She was a typical bully and loved it when someone fanned her vanity.

    "There are some people you can''t mess with how you please," said Le Xiaye jutting her chin out. Then, her index finger poked at Raelle''s forehead and she went on, "Get that through your thick sk- Ahhh!"

    Before she could even finish, she didn''t even know how someone held her wrist, and soon she felt a bone-crushing feeling making her scream in pain. Soon, she abruptly flung away from Raelle andnded miserably on the ground groaning in pain.

    ''Who dared to touch me?'' she wanted to question but when she noticed the fierce eyes of the woman who stood before Raelle like a wall, she lost her voice. She turned around to ask for help from her minions but was dumbfounded to see that they were also held back by two men. "Wha-What do you think you''re doing?" Xiaye stammered out in fear.

    The woman didn''t bother replying as she turned her head to Raelle and bowed slightly, "Chief, are you injured?"

    Raelle shrugged her shoulders, "I''m not injured but this pesky fly wasted a lot of my time."

    That was Raelle''s way of saying that she was displeased right now. Earlier, she had warned these girls to keep their hands to themselves, but they really didn''t listen. Even though Raelle didn''t like parading around with her security, it didn''t mean she had no one around her at all. How could Mu Chenyan let anyone hurt their precious Elle?

    That''s why this bunch of chaperones was always around Raelle blending in the crowd. They''d never make their presence known unless it was necessary. And as always, they waited in silence but when Xiaye stepped into Raelle''sfort zone, they had toe out!

    Raelle looked at the girl who was now ring at her in silence and said, "You''re absolutely correct. There are indeed some people you shouldn''t mess around with." Her perfect smile graced her lips once more as she continued, "I just happen to be one of those people." She took an unnecessary pause before adding, "Yet you tried to steal what Raelle Xiang set her eyes on. Tsk. Tsk. Not a good idea."

 Chapter 19 - Habit Of Biting

    "What is thismotion?"

    The store manager''s whole body shuddered when she heard the cold voice questioning her. She pressed a button and the mirror turned into a one-way screen where they had the perfect view of the main area of the store. Seeing the scene before her eyes, her heart almost stopped beating in fear.

    She was already sweating since the boss came to the store unannounced. Who knew why Master Xian suddenly lost his way and found himself here on thest day of his holiday? But it really gave her anxiety. And now something like a catfight was about to begin in the store, she really felt scared of Master Xian''s ominous temper.

    Although Moonlight was just one of the many brands under Shui Conglomerate, everyone knew that it was the most treasured one to Master Xian. And it was understandable as well. After all, Moonlight was founded by Master Xian''ste mother. Despite losing everything, Master Xian strived hard to save this one ce that he held very dear.

    It was not even that shocking that Master Xian would personallye to visit the store. He would often check up the thing himself. But what was really startling was that this time, he asked the store manager to treat him as a customer because he came to buy something. As for what he wanted to buy, he hadn''t said a word.

    And even before she could be of any help, this whole ruckus began. She knew that Young Miss Xiaye was no good and one of these days, would definitely cause trouble. Who knew this silly girl would choose this very day to cause her a headache!

    "I''ll go over and see what''s wrong," she mustered up the courage to say.

    Shui Xian raised his hand and stopped her. Although he could only see the back of Raelle from where he was, however, he felt like it was familiar. He silently watched everything unfold before his eyes. At first, since Raelle was just standing there, he really thought she was a pitiful pushover. However, the way she stood there contradicted with his conjectures. Later, he even got the front row seat to see that young miss Xiaye''s face losing color when Raelle''s people came to stop her. But none of this really wasn''t interesting to him. It had nothing to do with him anyway.

    But his expressions finally shifted when he heard the name ''Raelle Xiang''. His eyebrows inconspicuously lifted in pleasant surprise.

    Meanwhile, unbeknownst to his presence, Raelle continued to do what she was doing. And no, it was not acting like a tyrant. She had long forgotten about the girl who was not taught any etiquette. She wouldn''t bicker with a litter girl. She just considered her a girl who wasn''t properly taught the decorum and propriety. That''s all!

    So, she looked at the shop attendant''s surprised face and said, "Can you please pack it up? And do it prettily."

    The shop attendant hastily nodded her head and with her hands covered in glove, took the pendant and went around to wrap it up for Raelle. While the other shop attendant started cleaning up the counter, Raelle asked her for something else. During this while, the long-forgotten young miss stood up and ran towards Raelle trying to w at her face.

    She was again obstructed by the woman with a solemn countenance.

    "How dare you treat me like this? Do you know who my father is?!"

    Raelle didn''t even spare her a second nce as she said, "Please, do tell me who your father is! I might have to send him a gift in near future..." she took a brief pause before adding, "I think a book on parenting might save him some face in the future."

    "You!!" Xiaye was enraged because of Raelle''s remarks. "My father is the Mayor. Let me see how you parade around so arrogantly once he hears about this."

    Raelle feigned a gasp and looked at Xiaye with eyes wide open. Xiaye felt pleased thinking how Raelle was now gonna beg her for forgiveness. But nothing of the sort happened, because Raelle soon passed her a look that seemed like she was looking at a dancing monkey but this dancing monkey wasn''t even able to amuse her!

    "I believe there are surveince cameras in this high-end store?" questioned Raelle and the shop attendant''s head bobbed up and down repeatedly. "Then I think this young princess of the Mayor of our city won''t mind if I let the whole city see just how the Mayor''s precious daughtercks civility."

    Xiaye finally lost her momentum and stared at her vigntly. "You don''t dare!"

    "There is nothing that I don''t dare to do," replied Raelle in all honesty. "You might have a habit of barking, but I have a habit of biting. And people don''t ever forget my bite."

    The shop manager heard a soft chuckle and looked at Shui Xian with an aghast look. But Shui Xian coughed to hide the fact that he actually let out a chuckle at Raelle''s words. His thoughts were, ''What are you a vampire? Why go around biting people?''

    Seeing how intently Shui Xian had been staring at Raelle''s back, the shop manager suddenly thought of something and said, "Master Xian, that customer is wearing Dream of Change." She had heard from somewhere that Master Xian had been looking for the pendant ''Dream of Change'' for years. But he could never find out who bought the pendant at the auction back then.

    And now that it appeared right in their store. How could she not tell Master Xian?

    Shui Xian''s attention shifted to the shop manager as he asked, "Are you sure?"

    "I can''t be mistaken about this," replied the shop manager.

    Shui Xian looked back in Raelle''s direction with a profound look in his eyes. No one could tell what was he thinking about right now. But his unfathomable eyes didn''t shift away from Raelle''s figure even for a minute.

    He was suddenly reminded of what Raelle said to him, ''A match made in heaven.''

    Although he could tell she didn''t believe in those words herself, however, he had an inconceivable thought at this moment. What if this was really a match made in heaven? What he desperately searched for was right before his eyes now. As if it was meant to be. Now, whether it was that pendant or her, only time could tell what was really meant to be.

 Chapter 20 - It Fits, But Not Mine

    Raelle didn''t pay attention to the young miss who ran off with her tail between her legs after tossing an antagonistic nce her way. Raelle signaled with her finger and her ''chaperones'' instantly left the store and made themselves seem invisible.

    While Raelle was waiting, she felt someoneing and standing beside her but at an appropriate distance. Then she heard the man''s deep, and low, husky voice. It sounded bewitching, like a melodious echo in a dark abyss. "I''m looking for wedding bands."

    The shop attendant gaped at him and forgot how to keep her professional act. The shop manager immediately took over and said, "Give me a moment, Sir." She was herself startled when Shui Xian asked for wedding bands. But she wouldn''t dare question him. So, she immediately instructed the attendants to bring out the finest wedding band sets for him to see.

    Shui Xian looked at the rings and finally selected one in his hand. Since he was acting like a normal customer, the shop manager also acted ordingly, "Sir, this is a textured tinum ring with a round diamond that shines from the center. It''s 4 mm wide. But its unique feature is the double milgrain motif that gives it an outstanding finish."

    "Hmm..." Shui Xian hummed softly and seeing how Raelle was busy discussing something with the other shop attendant, he said a little loudly, "It''s beautiful indeed. But I''m not certain if it''d fit on her finger." Seeing that Raelle was done and was now waiting silently, he stepped closer to her and rapped the ss counter. As Raelle looked up at him, he continued, "I wonder if this youngdy would be willing to help me."

    Raelle looked into his amber eyes. And Shui Xian''s eyes also got stuck to her ck ones that gave the illusion as if he was looking at the impable ck jade. Her eyes were nk and confused, it was as if looking into the eyes of apletely innocent newborn. Her eyes were so limpid and pure that one could practically see right to the bottom of them.

    Shui Xian was lost for a moment when her voice brought him back to reality, "What can I possibly help you with?" was her question.

    He instantly held up the ring before her eyes and said, "I don''t know my fianc¨¦e''s size. But coincidently, you look exactly like her. So, I was wondering if you could try this ring on and see if it fits?"

    Raelle didn''t find anything wrong with his words or at least, she couldn''t tell if anything was wrong with his words. "Okay," saying that she tried to take the ring from his hand but he pulled back.

    "Allow me," he said and before she could say no, he had already slid the ring on her finger. Raelle stared at him for a long moment in silence before he said, "Oh, it''s a perfect fit."

    "Just because it fits, doesn''t mean it belongs to me," she replied naturally while staring at her hand. His touch on her hand was fleeting. He didn''t act presumptuously. He was rather distant and did it very gentlemanly making it so that his fingers could barely brush against her skin.

    Shui Xian''s eyes shed with an iprehensible emotion as he looked at her.

    She slowly took off the ring and added, "And I don''t like taking what doesn''t belong to me. Because what doesn''t belong to you will eventually find an escape from your grasp."

    Shui Xian looked at the ring she ced on the palm of his hand and a mncholy feeling emerged in his heart. She really unknowingly prodded at where it hurt him. And this wasn''t even the first time she did it.

    Of course, when he looked at her face, he had already remembered seeing her a few months ago. At that time she said something that tore open his wounds. And that''s why he could remember her so well. And today, once again, she did the very same thing.

    It was terrifying how even before bing a part of his life, she was able to control his emotions that he had buried in a bottomless abyss. It felt like his heart was in her grasp and she could squeeze it whenever she wanted.

    ''No wonder people call you callous,'' he wondered to himself. ''You really don''t care how your words might hurt someone.''

    "I believe now you know the size," said Raelle. But all this while she was looking into his eyes. For some reason, she found his eyes very familiar. She was actually trying to figure out something.

    "Yes, I do. Thank you for your help!" said Shui Xian. "But I might have to trouble you a little bit more." He pointed at the wedding band sets before them and added, "I can''t decide which one to buy."

    "Then you should have brought your wife with you," retorted Raelle.

    "How would that be a surprise then?" he responded monotonously.

    "So, you''ll take suggestions from any random stranger?"

    "If the random stranger is as sagacious as you, then why not?" He took a pause before saying, "So, which one do you like?"

    "Isn''t it the thought that counts?" said Raelle sounding doubtful. "I mean if you came all the way to buy the wedding bands just to surprise your wife, she should be happy with just that thought. Because your choice would represent your feelings for her." She recited each and every word she had read somewhere looking like a deeply sentimental person. But as always, those were just words to her because she felt nothing about it.

    "So, if it was you, the thought would be enough?" he asked curiously.

    "I''m a peculiar case. I don''t even mind if the other person doesn''t bring the ring altogether."

    "Then you won''t be thinking about the other person''s feelings?"

    "If I could understand such things, I wouldn''t be a peculiar case," was her response which he found quite interesting.

    "Miss, your package!" The shop attendant passed the shopping bag to Raelle and added, "As for the order you ced, you can pick it up in two days."

    "Okay. Thank you!" said Raelle and turned to leave. But she stopped half a step away and turned to Shui Xian. "If you still can''t decide, close your eyes and just randomly take one. Leave it all to fate." She used the words Hyson said to her and passed them on to Shui Xian before she strode off.

    Shui Xian looked at her retreating back and thought to himself, ''You finally have my attention, Raelle Xiang.'' Then he looked over and said to the shop manager, "I''ll take this one." He was holding a tinum ring with a baguette diamond. It was 5 mm wide. And had a brushed satin finish. He had actually chosen this one from the moment he set eyes on it. As for taking Raelle''s help, that was just an excuse to talk to her. To learn about her. "Deliver it home."

    Giving them instructions, he also rushed out of the store taking long strides. On the street, he looked around to find Raelle, and seeing her silhouette, he didn''t hesitate before rushing after her.

 Chapter 21 - Coffee With A Stranger?

    Shui Xian didn''t know why he wanted to reach out to Raelle. Maybe it was his curiosity to know more about his future wife or something else he couldn''t understand. When he finally managed to get beside Raelle, he said, "What''s the hurry?"

    Raelle gave him a sidelong nce as she questioned, "Are you following me?"

    "Yes," he replied honestly and it made her stop in her steps. "Since you helped me, I was thinking maybe we should have a cup of coffee together?" He took off his trench coat since he wanted to let the cold chill in the air to cool him down.

    "You''re paying?" she asked.

    "Obviously," he replied. "Since you helped me, naturally I should be treating you. How can I be shameless enough to make you treat me instead?"

    "Well, I know someone that shameless, so just wanted to confirm." She was shading Hyson for having no consciousness at all. She looked him up and down before her eyes caught sight of something. Her lips turned into an arc and she epted without hesitation, "Sure. Let''s have that coffee."

    Shui Xian actually thought she''d reject him but she again went against his thinking. It was as if she was hell-bent on proving his understanding wrong. As they walked towards the closest coffee shop and found a table, Raelle didn''t look at him even once more.

    "What do you want to drink?"

    Raelle didn''t even nce at the menu as she said, "Latte Machiatto."

    Shui Xian ced the order and came to sit opposite her. He saw how Raelle picked up a napkin and held it before her face. He really didn''t know what she was up to but she sometimes moved it up and sometimes down. What was she really doing?

    After a moment, she put the napkin down with satisfaction visible on her face. What conclusion did shee up to was unknown.

    "Let''s introduce ourselves," suggest Shui Xian.

    Raelle smiled at him, "Introductions are for those who want to get familiar with each other. In our case, I''m fine with being a stranger."

    "Then why did you agree to have a coffee with this stranger?" he inquired as the coffee was served.

    "Coffee with a stranger is said to be a great experience," said Raelle as she picked up her cup of coffee. "I like the word stranger and the meaning behind it. I feel like that''s the most honest association in this world."

    "Oh," was all that he said. "How so?"

    Raelle pointed around at the people in the coffee shop and said, "Do you think these people came into this world knowing each other?" His eyes narrowed and he shook his head. "Every one of them had been a stranger once. And no matter how close they seem today, they are all on the road to be strangers all over again. That''s the reality of life. It''s a cycle. You meet as strangers, you leave as strangers. The only difference is, when they leave, they be strangers with memories."

    She took a sip of her coffee and licked the remnants slowly off her lips. This action was small but sensual. Nevertheless, she was actually satisfied to see that his eyes stayed on her eyes. That was a first for her.

    "I''ve met over forty strangers specifically for a coffee but this is my very first time actually ordering or drinking coffee with a stranger."

    His brows arched up in surprise at her remark. He observed the way she looked at him and came to a conclusion and finally, he voiced out with conviction, "You know who I am already, right?"

    Raelle smirked at him, "Smart! I like that!" She looked at his face and added, "Do you think if I didn''t know I''d be sitting here with you?" She had recognized him as he put that ring on her hand. But she wasn''t certain at that time. Later when he asked her out for a coffee, she confirmed his identity. Even when she was holding up that napkin, she was actually trying to cover his eyes and match the jawline with the person she met at the party the other day.

    "When did you figure it out?" he questioned.

    Raelle pointed at his cufflinks, "As soon as you took off that coat. You wore that during the party as well."

    Shui Xian looked at his cufflinks and had a look of enlightenment. He really didn''t think his cufflinks would give away his identity. Because he never thought she''d notice something like this. Even though he was wearing his customized cufflinks, that had the initials of his name. He still never expected her to catch on.

    "You''re very perceptive," he couldn''t helpplimenting.

    Raelle shrugged her shoulders, "People like me have to learn to be perceptive. Since I''m not very perceptive when ites to feelings, I learned to be perceptive of my surroundings." What she meant was that since she could feel the others'' emotions, she had to learn to read people''s expressions and their movements. Every single expression of people, she had engraved it into her memory. It made life a lot easier.

    However, Shui Xian thought she was referring to how her status and position made her be perceptive of everything around her. He also knew it wasn''t easy achieving such sess without having keen senses and astute nature.

    "I think I haven''t received as many surprises in years as you have brought to me in just two meetings." He was telling the truth. It had been a long time since he felt surprised by anything. But she was continuing to surprise him. She was shrewd, profound, proud in her own way, and yet, her eyes held such innocence that he had never seen before.

    "By the way, I was waiting for the coffee invitation for a while now," told Raelle.

    "You were?" he questioned.

    "Didn''t I leave my personal business card with you? It''s not every day I give it out," she informed him with a calm look.

 Chapter 22 - Second, For The First Time!

    When she said it like that, he was stumped for words. "Oh, I suddenly feel special."

    "Of course, you''re special," she replied artlessly. He looked into her eyes and she promptly added, "After all, not just anyone can be Raelle Xiang''s husband. So, don''t ever think you''re not special."

    Shui Xian pressed his lips together and forgot to even maintain his expressions. How was he supposed to keep up the stony demeanor before her when she spoke like this with such a straight face?

    "If you have something to ask, you can," continued Raelle. "I usually don''t like answering but I''d do my best today."

    "Someone with your status, you must have already done a thorough background check on me."

    "You''re someone I''m gonna marry, that doesn''t mean I''d try to probe around with your privacy. Besides, I don''t do stuff like background checks until and unless I want to get rid of someone." She took a pause briefly, "But that is also limited. I respect people''s privacy very much. My grandfather had been a Major back in the days, he certainly has set some rules and engraved them deeply in my memory."

    "So, you don''t know I''m divorced?" he questioned straightforwardly. He didn''t think she would want him to go around this topic. Besides, it seemed she might not even understand it if he didn''t put it explicitly.

    "That I heard from my Yanyan," answered Raelle with a faint smile.

    "And you still agreed to this marriage?"

    "Why not? Aren''t you divorced?" He nodded. "That means you''re single now. I''m not intruding into anything. I''m just gonna legally and rightfully take my ce as your wife."

    "Second wife," he corrected her on purpose.

    Raelle''s index finger tapped on the tabletop and she suddenly said, "I''ve never been second in my entire life! This is bound to be a new venture." Seeing him staring at her with slightly parted lips, she went on, "I don''t mean to brag but I''d always been at the top. But you see, it''s lonely at the top. Not that I care but change is good once in a while."

    She muttered something to herself and he heard only a small part of it, she said something along the lines of... "This is so unexpected. Who knew I''d finally be second but that is also a first for me but that too when it''s about my marriage. Woah!"

    "Won''t you ask why we got divorced?" he wanted to actually clear this up with her. As he said to his dad, that he was gonna take this rtionship seriously then she needed to know about his past. He couldn''t let her marry him, keeping her in the dark.

    Raelle''s one leg draped over the other as she straightened up to give him a look. "That''s your past, why would I want to know about it?"

    "Because you''re gonna marry me," he replied.

    "Yes, and we are gonna build a future together. What does your past have to do with our future?" He was stunned yet again as she continued, "If life is a book, I have never back read it. I only have the habit of going forward. My grandfather taught me that when one is in battle, he has to keep looking forward. How manyrades or enemies fell behind should not be your concern. Because once you turned your head and looked back, you''ll also be the fallen one. In other words, if one keeps chafing at the walls of the past, eventually that past would suck you back."

    Shui Xian contemted her words and agreed in his heart. He had to say that she spoke some real truths. "My reason to mention that was simple... I just wanted to you know that I might not be able to give you a ce in my heart."

    Raelle''s lips twitched and she took out a pen before scribbling something on the napkin. Shui Xian looked at her curiously and suddenly she pushed the napkin before him. She had actually drawn the diagram of the heart. As in the diagram, one would see in those science books. How amusing! Not!!!

    Tapping at the drawing with her pen, she began, "I understand that heart has four chambers but why do people think that someone can actually live in those chambers? That''s not what the chambers are for. The right atrium receives oxygen-poor blood from the body and pumps it to the right ventricle. The right ventricle pumps the oxygen-poor blood to the lungs. As for left atrium..."

    Before she could continue her science lecture, he snatched the napkin and crumpled it before throwing it away.

    "Are you trying to test me?" he questioned.

    "No," she shook her head innocently. "I''m just letting you know that there is no such thing as giving a ce to someone in your heart. That''s scientifically not possible."

    "Are you always like this or today is a special day?"

    "Today is a special day, but I''m like this on normal days as well," she replied with a faint smile.

    "What is special about today?" he asked and she pointed at him simply.

    "Didn''t I tell you, you''re special? I met you today, that makes this day special as well."

    At this point, Shui Xian wasn''t certain about what to say or what not to say. Either his way of saying things were wrong or her way of interpreting was wrong. Either way, they were not getting anywhere.

    Sighing internally, he continued, "So, you don''t mind a loveless marriage?"

    Raelle blinked at him repeatedly in silence and he thought she might have gotten his point now. But, boy, was he wrong again!

    "I believe you have already gone through a love marriage, how did that work out for you?" She noticed how his jaw clenched and his pupils contracted. "And I think I said something I wasn''t supposed to." She stood up and bowed slightly as she said, "I''m sorry! I think I said something wrong."

    Even he wanted to get angry, he couldn''t do so. First, what she said was right. He got nothing from that love marriage except for destruction. Second, she was so ready to apologize. How was he supposed to be mad at her?

    He really wanted to question her, why she was like this?

 Chapter 23 - Disagreements

    Shui Xian had never felt this helpless in years. She was beyond his understanding and maybe that''s why she managed to catch his attention so easily. He didn''t feel attracted to her although she was a beautiful young woman. What he felt was a sudden urge to understand her. Because he certainly loved the confidence she exuded.

    "If you''re not expecting love, what exactly are you expecting from this marriage?"

    Raelle had juste back after getting herself another coffee when she heard his question. She stared at him nkly before replying, "Is it weird if I say nothing?" Seeing his expression, she nodded, "Right? It does sound weird. However, that''s my honest answer. I''m not expecting anything." Before he could open his mouth to say anything, she continued, "Don''t be offended, it''s just that I don''t have any expectations in my life. When you expect nothing, it leaves you with endless possibilities in life."

    His lips curled up slightly as he said, "It''s strange but I can''t disagree with your words." He rubbed his earlobe out of habit as he questioned, "So, why did you agree to marry me?"

    "Because I was told you''re handsome," she answered inly. "And I must add that that''s absolutely correct! You''re indeed handsome!"

    "Uhm... Thank you, I guess!" was all he could utter before her.

    Seeing him like this, Raelle chuckled softly and took a sip of her coffee. "Actually, I think it''s you who should reconsider your decision to marry me."

    "Oh, and why is that?" he asked with graceful simplicity.

    "By now, you must have noticed that I''m the odd one out. I stand out in the crowd too much. Not just because of who I am but also because of my beliefs."

    Shui Xian had obviously noticed it. Anyone would notice it. She was too vocal about what made her different. She knew what set her apart from the rest but it didn''t bother her. She seemed toofortable with how she was.

    "I''ve noticed," he replied in a casual tone.

    "It doesn''t bother you?" she questioned with firm persistence.

    "Maybe it should bother me but it doesn''t," responded Shui Xian sincerely.

    A smile bloomed on her lips as afortable silence fell between them. Raelle was solely focused on her coffee with her own thoughts. While Shui Xian continued to observe her every movement and every expression.

    "What is love to you?" he asked out of the blue.

    "Love is just a cocktail," she replied.

    He straightened up at her reply. "Cocktail?"

    "Isn''t it?" she retorted. "Brain chemicals have an affair and make a cocktail. People like to name it love. In reality, love has nothing to even do with the heart." She looked aroundnguidly before continuing, "I can define it in other words."

    "Please, do!"

    "Love is like being drunk," she began softly. "When a person is drunk, he tends to do all sort of crazy things. And we name that craziness; love. But let''s not forget, after every crazy night you have to wake up with a splitting headache and endless regret with a hangover." She wiped her mouth with the napkin slowly and went on, "Two people who im to be in love are just two drunk people willing to be crazy together. It''s just a matter of time when or who bes sober first and walks away with a hangover."

    Shui Xian found himself unable to look away from her. Every word of hers tried to question people''s real emotions and feelings. It was terrifying how she could actually convince you with her words. And it was fascinating how she did it.

    She propped her chin on her intertwined hands and said, "But since you''ve been in love before, I believe you won''t agree with what I said. So, why don''t you tell me, what is love to you?"

    "Have you ever seen someone quenching thirst with poison?" His voice had a tinge of nostalgia. "It''s a desperate struggle of survival. Either you die from thirst or die from drinking the poison. But the conclusion stays the same, death is inevitable!" He let out a gloomy sigh as he went on, "Likewise, an alcoholic knows that alcohol will kill him but he can''t help himself. Despite all the warning signs, human beings are still desperate creatures. The idea of being lonely in the vastness of this universe scares them. And that''s why they tend to look for love."

    He looked at her who seemed to be listening intently to him with her ck eyes staring right back at him. "You can call it alcohol or poison, it''s just a way to quench one''s thirst or one''s obsession. And even if it hurts, sometimes you can''t walk away from love."

    "But isn''t it foolishness?" she questioned with a straight face. "If it hurts, why let yourself go through it?"

    "You''re right. It''s utter madness. Isn''t that why people named love; madness? However, always remember that every madness has a reason behind it."

    "Clearly, you humans are investing in the wrong thing," she said while shaking her head.

    "You humans?" he repeated. "What are you?"

    "Me?" Raelle pointed at herself andughed dryly. "I''ve been told so many times that I''m like a robot that even I subconsciously believe it now."

    "A robot?"

    Raelle nodded her head, "Since I can''t resonate with seven basic emotions of people namely, joy, anger, anxiety, thought, grief, fear, and fright."

    "Interesting..." was all that he said and that caught Raelle off guard. This was not the reaction people usually had regarding herck of emotions.

    With amusement glinting in his eyes, he rubbed his chin and voiced, "I just realized that you are all about facts while I''m all about emotions. We already are in disagreement."

    Raelle shrugged her shoulders, "Disagreements are part of a marriage. What matters is that we don''t give up. I don''t have a habit of doing anything half-heartedly. So, I can assure you that I won''t give up trying my best."

    Shui Xian ced his hands on the table as he leaned over, "How amusing! We finally have something we can agree on. I also like to give my very best in everything I do."

 Chapter 24 - Bitter!

    Despite their disagreements, they still managed to agree on one thing; they both liked to give their best in everything. Either it''d be work or a rtionship. Both of them won''t do anything half-heartedly.

    This was themon ground that seemed to have brought them close without them even realizing it.

    Just as Shui Xian had said, he paid for the coffee and now they stood outside the coffee shop looking at the people passing by. It seemed like everyone was walking and yet, only these two were standing right there without moving or talking.

    "How about I take you home?" he offered gentlemanly. Actually, he didn''t want to part just yet. It was strange. She was still really a stranger to him and yet, he found thepany of this stranger to be quite amusing. Before today, he really never thought that coffee with a stranger could be such an interesting affair.

    "Do you think I walked here?" she replied.

    "No, I meant. You should ask your driver to leave and I can drop you off at home."

    "I drove here myself. Grandfather sent the driver home for the holidays."

    "Oh," he responded. "Then let me walk you to the car?"

    Raelle didn''t mind that and they walked side by side towards the parking. They were walking in silence but Raelle had been looking at his side profile. No matter how she looked at him, he was still handsome from every angle. This had already given Shui Xian a huge favorability boost in her mind. After all, in her opinion, if she was gonna spend her life with this man, he should be pleasing to her eyes.

    "Why are you looking at me this time?" he asked. "And don''t say, you''re enjoying or appreciating the view."

    "I was indeed admiring your beauty but that has helped me ining to a conclusion," she replied and he raised his brow in question. "I think I won''t get tired of looking at your face. You''re pleasing to my eyes."

    "Am I supposed to take that as apliment?"

    She nodded her head, "That''s the highestpliment anyone has ever received from me."

    Shui Xian turned his head to look at her look of satisfaction and shook his head. He didn''t think there was a point in saying anything. As long as she was pleased. Whatever!

    They had reached her car and Raelle said, "I guess it''s time to say, goodbye?" She thought about it before shaking her head, "No, I should say see you soon. Because it''s certainly not goodbye."

    Before she opened the door of her car, he held her arm and asked, "Last time... Why did you kiss me?"

    "That was me saying hello!" replied Raelle with an odd smile on her face.

    "Is that how you say hello to everyone?" he questioned.

    Seeing him staring at her face with an inquisitive look, she answered honestly, "Actually, I heard that kisses are sweet. I just wanted to test that. And since you''re gonna be my husband anyway, I thought you''re the most suitable person to perform my experiment on."

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched, "You used me for your experiment? Like I was Person A and you''re the Person B in that experiment?"

    She nodded and added, "But what''s the point? The experiment failed miserably. I tasted nothing!" She looked into his eyes that shed with a strange light and went on, "But I''m told it''s my fault because what I did couldn''t even be considered a kiss. Apparently, I need to have a deep kiss to taste anything."

    He pushed her against the side of her car and stepped close imposingly. His figure towered over her as he stepped close and his arm went right past the side of her face. Raelle didn''t feel bothered by the fact that he had stepped into her personal space. She had alreadye this close to him before, so it didn''t feel ufortable.

    She innocently looked up at his face and said, "Are you mad?"

    "You tell me, am I?"

    "How would I know?" she retorted. "I heard everyone likes kisses, so you can''t possibly be mad about that. You got one without asking for it and that too, free of charge. Where else will you get such a bargain?"

    Shui Xian really couldn''t tell why he was feeling mad. It was maybe because he thought she was ying around. But her eyes showed that she was serious. Every word she said was true. Even if it sounded like a joke, it wasn''t. She actually kissed him for an experiment.

    "Don''t worry, I won''t try the second time until I''m done with my research on that ''deep kiss''." She patted his chest reassuringly. Thinking of something, she stopped and looked into his amber eyes that had darkened a shade, "Actually, my best friend said that instead of treating my life as a theoretical exam, I need to do some practicals as well. That brings me to the question if I won''t look up about ''deep kiss'' how would I know what that is..."

    Her words got stuck in her mouth when his lipsnded straight on hers. It was exactly the same as thest time until his lips moved against hers. His eyes were right before hers. She could even see her own reflection in those orbs. As for him, he could see her nk gaze.

    The kiss was neither passionate nor could it be described as a deep one. In truth, it was a very gentle kiss. His lips were cold but she still felt a touch of warmth. That left her confused. Since she had no idea what to do, she let him take the lead.

    No sparks flew, no butterflies were felt running amok. And yet, the kiss was veryfortable. It wasn''t even that long either. He slowly pulled away and looked into her eyes, "How did that taste?"

    Raelle licked up her lips and said, "Bitter!"

    The corner of Shui Xian''s eyes crinkled and a smile graced his lips. Raelle was left staring at his unrestrained smile. The soft smile seemed to make his handsome looks shine even brighter!

    He ruffled her hair and said, "me it on your coffee!" With that, he turned around and left her staring at his retreating back.

    She carelessly got in her car and buckled her seatbelt. Her finger went up to her bottom lip as she said, "At least, I tasted something this time."

 Chapter 25 - Recipe Of Love

    Title of the Experiment: The Taste of a Kiss

    Purpose: To prove whether the kisses really have a taste or not.

    Hypothesis: Kiss can''t possibly be sweet.

    Take 1 - New Year Party: Failed! It tasted like nothing.

    Reason for failure: It''s said, I didn''t conduct the experiment properly. In other words, it was not considered a proper kiss!

    Take 2 - Parking lot: It tasted bitter. But that can be because of the coffee.

    Currently, Raelle was sitting in her bed with herptop on herp as she typed continuously. Sometimes, she really took somethings too seriously. For instance, the matter of this kiss. Actually, she took everything too seriously when it involved human emotions and feelings. Because it was something she couldn''tprehend.

    She had a particr locked file in herptop where she kept notes regarding her new experiences. It was a habit her psychologist got her into. ording to the psychologist, to understand somethings, she needed to note down small things. No matter how small or insignificant, if she found anything peculiar, she needed to write it down.

    And that''s exactly what she did. It was how she managed to actually read people''s expressions because she noted down everything. And learned from her own experience along the way.

    Conclusion for today: Kiss doesn''t have a taste of its own. External factors y a role.

    *Knock*

    "Come in," called out Raelle as she heard the knock at her door.

    Mu Chenyan stepped inside her room with a te of fruits. Seeing who it was, Raelle saved the file and closed the lid of herptop, and even put it aside.

    "Were you working again?" asked Mu Chenyan with a disgruntled look.

    "No, I wasn''t," replied Raelle truthfully.

    "Then what were you doing, Elle?"

    Raelle took the te of fruits from her hands and took a bit of the apple before replying, "I was taking notes."

    "Notes? About what?" Mu Chenyan sounded perplexed.

    "Taste testing," was Raelle''s answer that confused her even more.

    "Taste-testing?" she repeated uncertainly and Raelle nodded. She stared at Raelle''s face for a while before sighing, "I can''t understand your peculiar ways of life. Maybe it''s the generation gap. I''m getting too old."

    Raelle looked her up and down, "I also agree. You are getting old."

    Mu Chenyan gaped at her before poking her head lightly, "Yes, I''m getting old so stop giving me worries."

    Raelle looked displeased, "Yanyan, what worry did I give you now? In the morning, you forbid me from doing any work and told me to go out and enjoy myself. I did exactly as you said!"

    "So, did my Missy actually enjoyed herself today?" asked Mu Chenyan sounding pleasantly surprised.

    Raelle admitted, "I enjoyed myself."

    Mu Chenyan tucked her hair behind her ear lovingly and asked, "I''m curious now. What did my Missy do for enjoyment?"

    "I went to watch a movie, did some shopping, even taught someone a life lesson, had a coffee with a familiar stranger, and did some taste testing to finish off today''s adventure."

    Mu Chenyan patted her head as if encouraging a little kid, "Oh my! Our Elle really had a lot of fun today."

    Raelle smiled at her and continued to eat her apple with a ''crunch crunch'' sound. Mu Chenyan continued to watch her eat with an affectionate look in her eyes.

    "Yanyan," Raelle suddenly called out.

    "Hmmm..." Mu Chenyan hummed in response.

    "Have you ever been in love with someone?" Mu Chenyan was taken aback by that question. Raelle had never questioned her about something like this before. "So, have you?" Mu Chenyan''s eyes softened as she nodded her head. "Oh, really? Who is that person?"

    Mu Chenyan pointed at Raelle''s face who looked lost. "It''s you, Elle."

    "Me?"

    "Yes, you," she continued. "When I first held you in my arms, I instantly fell in love. It was love at first sight."

    "Huh?" Raelle didn''t get it as always.

    Mu Chenyan didn''t mind borating patiently, "My dear Elle, every rtionship is different, right?" Raelle nodded her head. "That means, the feelings involved are also different?" This Raelle couldn''t answer so she shrugged her shoulders. "Let''s say it this way, you said each bond is formed because of the reaction that happens between our brain chemicals?"

    "That''s true!"

    "Then look at it this way, in each rtionship different chemicals tend to mix together and create their own reactions. We call those chemicals, feelings. And when they blend together, they create their own vor."

    "Oh..."

    "So, love also has different vors. Because each chemical reaction can''t possibly the same. So, each person''s love is also different with their own unique vor." She looked into Raelle''s eyes and said, "You just need to create your own vor of love. Or the chemical reaction."

    Raelle didn''t know what reaction would be appropriate in response so she stayed silent before trying to change the topic. "So, how is grandfather these days? He seems very happy to me."

    Mu Chenyan agreed, "That''s because Elder Xiang is indeed very happy these days."

    "Why?" questioned Raelle.

    "Because his biggest dream ising true... Our Young Miss is getting married. How can he be not happy about that?"

    Listening to this reason, Raelle deadpanned, "Is that something to be happy about? Or is he that happy to get rid of me?"

    Mu Chenyan shook her head at her, "Elle, he is not happy to get rid of you. He is happy to see you opening up to possibilities and change. Since you''re willing to explore what life has to offer, he is very delighted." She sounded a little sad as she added, "Seeing you like this for years, he always felt guilty. As if he was ipetent and he didn''t do a good enough job in raising you."

    "Seeing me like this?" repeated Raelle. "Howe I don''t see anything wrong with how I am but everyone else does?"

    Mu Chenyan ced her palm against her cheek as she said, "There is nothing wrong with my Elle. She is just special. Very special!" She took a pause briefly and went on, "And if no one can see it, they should look at my Elle through my eyes."

    She didn''t stay with Raelle for long and soon left the room telling her ''good night.''

    When she left, Raelle turned on herptop and added a special note...

    ''Different chemicals create different reactions. Each element creates its own bond. Depending on their procedures. So, each love has its own vor. Does that mean each love has its own recipe?''

 Chapter 26 - Wedding Invitation?

    "So, you''re really getting married?"

    A disbelieving voice rang out from the phone''s speaker that he had ced on the stack of paper on his desk. Right beside it, hisptop disyed rows of numbers. In his hand, he held a notebook and a ck pen.

    "Why is it so hard to believe?" Shui Xian''s monotonous voice asked in return. "Does divorced men don''t get married again?"

    "Ge[1], you know that''s not what I meant," answered the feminine voice. "It''s just hard to believe that you''re moving on so fast."

    "Fast?" he repeated. "It''s been over six years. How is it exactly fast?"

    "I don''t know," grumbled the female on the line. "Maybe it''s hard to believe because you''re actually marrying someone of dad''s choice. I mean, I get it you want to move on. You should move on. But why do you have to marry someone of dad''s choice? It''s your life, choose your own partner!"

    Shui Xian''s eyes turned a degree colder, "Isn''t it enough that you''re living your own life? Without the involvement of dad or me?"

    "Ge, I''m worried about you," said the woman on the phone. "You''re the one who taught me that one canpromise on anything but not on love. You''re gonna spend your own whole life with that person? Without love, how will it work?"

    Shui Xian subconsciously thought of what Raelle said to him and said forthrightly, "Someone recently made me realize something... Even with love, it didn''t work."

    His sister was left stumped for words for a moment. What he said really made it difficult for her to continue arguing. But she wasn''t willing to give up at all, "Ge, I understand your first love hurt you. It left you devastated but that doesn''t mean you should give up on love altogether."

    "You must be mistaken about something, little sister..." He leaned his head back as he continued, "Heartbreak didn''t make me give up on love. The pain only taught me to be cautious with love and people. Maybe that''s why I''m not willing to let just anyone into my heart anymore. So, now, even if someone has the key to the door leading to my heart, that person first has to find the door."

    He ced the notebook and the pen on the desk and fixed his cuffs. And while doing so, his gaze fell on his cufflinks. Since all of his cufflinks were customized, his initials were always engraved on them. And looking at it, he couldn''t help shaking his head. He really never thought something this small would give away his identity.

    After his brief pause, he added in a hard tone, "Besides, you are not clear about what happened back then. You left home even before that. So, stop trying to tell me what choices I should make in life."

    His sister''s sighing was heard, "You''ve turned difficult to talk to. It''s really a challenge having a normal conversation with you."

    Shui Xian didn''t mind her words, he simply replied, "I don''t know what family you have built in this world. But I only have a dad now. So, I don''t mind doing something to make him happy. Especially when I know that he is only thinking about my happiness. I''ve tried being selfish like you, it only hurt me and the people around me."

    "Ge..."

    Before she could say anything else, he stopped her, "I''m busy. Gonna hang up now. Take care of yourself." With that, he hung up the phone.

    He straightened up and held the notebook again. He had actually written down the words Raelle said to him the other day. The beliefs that challenged his own. The thoughts that didn''t align with his own. And the words that hit a sore spot!

    She turned out to be even more interesting than he originally thought. It intrigued him. It made him curious to know why she was like this. This wasn''t something he wanted to ask her. This was something he wanted to find out himself.

    "Master Xian..."

    Shui Xian closed the notebook and looked up at his assistant with a straight face.

    "You said you wanted me to find details of a person. But you didn''t give me a name. You said you''d let me know after the holidays."

    Shui Xian tapped at the cover of the notebook and replied, "That won''t be necessary any longer. She is a mystery I''d like to solve myself. She is full of surprises, I''d rather let her surprise me every day in a new way."

    Ma Jin stood with a dumbfounded look on his face. He couldn''t understand what his boss meant by those words or who he was talking about. And he wasn''t in the position to ask that either. His job was to do as he was told since he was told not to do anything regarding this, he won''t do anything at all!

    "You have anything else to report," inquired Shui Xian seeing how Ma Jin was still standing before his desk.

    "I don''t know if I should give you this but..." he hesitated before finally mustering up the courage to ce an invitation on his desk. Shui Xian gave him an inquisitive look. "Your college ssmates are having a reunion party. You''re invited."

    "Do you think I have time for this?" Shui Xian''s voice had a dangerous touch.

    "Right? I know you''re very busy and I repeatedly told them as well. But they insisted that I deliver this invitation to you."

    "Well, then your job is done now. You can leave."

    Ma Jin silently turned around and left his office without even turning back. He already knew his boss would not attend such gatherings and yet he was forced to put that invitation on his desk.

    Shui Xian picked up the invitation but didn''t open it. Instead, he thought of something else and sent a photo of this invitation to Raelle and a line of text that read, ''So, no wedding invitation card?''

    After that, he threw the invitation in his drawer carelessly.

    He held his phone in his hand and counted. Within three minutes, his phone rang and the caller was quite obvious.

    [1] Ge: If by any chance you don''t know, ''Ge'' means elder brother in Chinese.

 Chapter 27 - Rumors Are Not Credible

    Raelle had been in the conference room since the morning. The members of a project team had juste out of probation, so she had to audit their meeting. It was tedious but she had to do it herself.

    After going through the hours-long meeting, she went back to her spacious but minimalistic office and took off her white suit jacket, hung it on a coat hanger, and went towards her desk. First of all, she took off her high heels and let her feet breathe on the soft carpet under her feet.

    "Bring me a coffee," she instructed Cloe and opened the lid of theptop where a spreadsheet opened up before her eyes. Before she would look through it, her phone vibrated.

    Seeing the message from Xian, she stared at it nkly. She didn''t actually have Xian''s number since he never gave it to her. She was the one who passed her business card to him. But seeing the content of the message, she could assert that it was him.

    He sent, a picture of an invitation card and a question... ''So, no wedding invitation card?''

    "Whose wedding invitation card?" she asked herself out loud in confusion before dialing his number. And just as the call connected, she didn''t even wait for him to say ''hello'' before she voiced out her query, "Do I need an invitation card for my wedding?"

    Shui Xian''s deep, mellow but slightly careless voice replied, "Of course, you need an invitation. All weddings have invitation cards."

    "Huh? But I''m the bride, why would I need an invitation to my own wedding?" Shui Xian paused and went silent for a while. And not getting an answer, she continued, "Say something! Don''t I just need a groom to get married? Where did this invitatione from?"

    "You''re not serious about this question, are you?" he sounded very cautious and even uncertain. He had already concluded that anything was possible with her. So, he wasn''t sure whether to take that as a joke or not. Although he could tell she didn''t seem like someone fond of joking.

    "Why? Did you believe me?" she retorted.

    He shook his head, "It''s your fault for sounding so convincing."

    Raelle shrugged her shoulder, leaned back in her swivel chair, and gave it a spin with the heel of her foot as she said, "Actually, at first I really thought why would I need an invitation as a bride. But then I thought we''re not even inviting anyone to our wedding. So, we don''t even need an invitation."

    "Doesn''t your bucket-list have something like a dreamlike wedding?"

    "I don''t have a bucket list," was her candid response. "If I want something, I''ll just get it. If I want to do something, I''ll just do it. Why bother keeping things like bucket-lists?"

    He tapped the tabletop at a moderate pace and since he controlled his strength, it made no sound at all. "I know we are just gonna register our marriage and be done with it. I''m okay with it but you as a girl must want to wear a pretty white or red gown and look breathtaking on your big day."

    "I look spectacr every day though," she replied without any hesitation or chagrin. "And even if I want to wear a pretty white or red gown, can''t I do it on normal days? Why do I have to hold a special ceremony for that? Am I dressing for myself or to please the public?"

    "You have a point," he said after much contemtion.

    "I may not always make sense, but I always have a point," she responded. "Anyway, that''s all?"

    "For now," was all he said.

    "Then reach out to me whenever you want," she said and ced her phone at a side. She didn''t hang up and strangely Shui Xian didn''t either. He thought she would say something else but didn''t understand that that was her way of saying bye-bye.

    He heard two knocks from her side. He was hesitating whether to hang up or hold on. Soon, he heard another feminine voice, "Here is your coffee."

    "Thanks," he heard Raelle''s elegant voice.

    "You have a video conference with the G country branch," reminded Cloe.

    Raelle nodded, "I know."

    Since she did her job, Cloe turned around to leave but heard Raelle calling out to her, "Cloe!" Cloe looked back and saw her opening her drawer. "Catch!" On instinct, she lifted her hands and caught the box she threw towards her. She looked back at Raelle whose eyes had already shifted back to the spreadsheet on theptop screen.

    Cloe frowned to herself before looking at the box. There was a sticky note attached at the bottom and when she read the two words written on it, she froze for half a minute.

    It read, ''Happy Birthday!''

    Cloe''s looked at Raelle emotionally, looking touched, and grateful. She had just parted her lips to say something when Raelle raised her hand and motioned her to leave.

    "Don''t just stand there wasting time!"

    "I just want to say..."

    Raelle stopped her emotional speech with her words, "I don''t need to hear your thank you."

    Cloe pressed her lips together and opened the door to leave but before she stepped out, she said, "No matter how much you hate my mushy words, I still need to tell you I''m thankful for this. Even my parents don''t wish me on my birthday as diligently as you have been doing for the past six years."

    "I said, no mushy words!"

    Cloe made a face at her and walked out saying, "Thank you for the beautiful pendant! I love it!"

    Shui Xian and unintentionally or intentionally eavesdrop on this conversation and it left him dazed for a while. He did remember that Raelle went to buy a gift at ''Moonlight'' when he met her. She even had a bit of an argument over a pendant. Now, he was truly surprised to know that Raelle had actually bought the gift for her employee. Most probably, her assistant.

    ''What is it? Howe President Raelle is turning out to be such an adorable person?'' He wondered to himself and sighed out. ''Rumors were really not credible these days.''

 Chapter 28 - Birthday Girl

    Raelle''s fingers finally stopped typing and she stretched her body. Right at this moment, Cloe entered, "Chief, you''re finally done?"

    "Weren''t you gonna have dinner with your colleagues this evening?" inquired Raelle as she put everything back to it''s original ce, cleaned up her desk, and stood up.

    "Yes, but I couldn''t leave without you so they all left without me," informed Cloe with a bitter tone.

    "Oh? So, it''s your birthday but they are enjoying dinner with my money?"

    Cloe acted wronged and nodded her head, "They even threw me such pitiful gazes as if I was left alone in a tiger''s den. Well, your momentum is no less than a tiger but giving me such looks really didn''t settle well with me."

    Raelle took her zer, "You also used to look at me like I''m a tiger who would eat you one day."

    Cloe gave a dryugh, "And yet I managed to survive for seven years around you."

    "Yes, you did," was all Raelle said as she walked out of the office with Cloe following behind her. Raelle took the elevator to the ground floor. It was half-past 8, the office building was mostly empty now. She was one of those special cases who stayed behind to work overtime. When Cloe opened the car door for Raelle, thetter paused and thought about something, "You must know where they are having dinner, right? Let''s join them. We both haven''t had dinner yet anyway."

    Cloe knew who she was referring to but it still made her nk out for a while. It sounded like her boss was being very kind by gracing such a small gathering of her employees with her iparable existence. However, Cloe knew someone''s death was imminent today. She just couldn''t tell who dared to overstep and why on her birthday?!

    As she sat in the front seat with an uneasy look, received a message and looked at it before reporting it to Raelle, "Chief, Military General Daniel has requested to meet you personally. Again!"

    "What for?" asked Raelle as her eyes were trained on the passing lights outside the window.

    "He says he would like to personally thank you for all the contribution you have made to the country. Also, he says, his soldiers would love to see their anonymous benefactor once."

    Raelle didn''t react for a while before saying, "I don''t have time for this."

    Cloe cursed her luck. Today, her boss was not in the mood to give her proper instructions. She had toe up with an excuse again. She really didn''t know what she was thinking. Even when they hadn''t moved to H country, Raelle had been investing generously in the military projects. Especially that involved the families of martyrs. To be honest, she didn''t think her boss was patriotic. Heck! She never even felt any attachment with this country or any ce. Then the question was, why did she do it?

    "Chief, I still don''t get it," she spoke cautiously. "Why do you even do it?"

    "For my grandfather," was Raelle''s answer. "Didn''t you hear that my Xiang ancestors had all been in the military?" Cloe was rmed. "Of course, you didn''t hear it. Grandfather left this country to finally break away from that tradition. He said he had already lost enough."

    Cloe was truly taken aback, she never thought Xiang Family had a history like this. She always found a heroic spirit in Elder Xiang but who knew that dignified aura was deep-rooted in his blood and bones from generations.

    ....

    "She is still wet behind the ear[1], don''t know what she thinks of herself! This is not how one can do business here. She''s too headstrong! She won''tst long, I''m telling you all to be careful. All she knows is how to dress up. She thinks she can use her cheap seductions to establish herself here, she''s dreaming! Those cheap tricks only worked in those western countries! Unlike those vulgar people, in our country, we value seniority, manners, respect, filial piety! A rude brat like her definitely has no ce here!"

    Cloe''s face froze as soon as she heard those words about her boss who was standing right beside her with an indifferent look on her face. They had just reached the private room that was booked by her colleagues and the door happened to be slightly ajar. One could clearly hear those remarks from inside.

    Cloe made a cross on her chest and looked heavenward in silent prayer as she watched her boss step inside the private room unannounced and said, "Director Mo seems to hold me in high regards. If I knew earlier, I''d have been nicer to you. What a pity!"

    The air stagnated inside the room as everyone stared wide-eyed at Raelle''s face and stood up in shock. Even without anyone asking her to sit, she took an empty chair in a leisurely manner. She was the one paying for this extravagant meal anyway. So, who would stop her from sitting?

    "President Xiang, it''s an honor to have you join us for dinner," said bootlicking employee number 1.

    "President Xiang, sorry we didn''t know you''d be joining so we started without you. Hope you don''t mind." Another one joined in.

    With a cautious smile, a girl also added, "It seems like the whole room brightened up with President Xiang''s presence."

    Raelle''s lips curled into a lop-sided grin as she eyed them all one by one. Taking her time patiently. And when each of them felt her gaze on their bodies, their scalp felt numb.

    Raelle''s eyes stopped at that Director Mo who seemed to have a lot of opinions regarding her. He tried to appear calm and proud as if the earlierments hadn''t been made by him at all.

    "Why are you all standing? Please, enjoy your dinner! I''m also here to enjoy this dinner I held for my assistant''s birthday who seemed to be the only one who had been absent."

    Every one of them felt like someone pped them harshly on their faces. They didn''t dare sit back down as if there were nails on their chairs.

    "But it''s okay, I''m a generous person. I brought the birthday girl all the way here by myself," Raelle smiled at them in such a way that they call felt like the temperature in the room was dropping considerably.

    [1] wet behind the ear: Being too young or naive.

 Chapter 29 - You Reap What You Sow

    If Cloe was told toe up with only one word that was Raelle''s favorite. She''d say, it''s ''troublesome''. From the moment Cloe had been with Raelle, this word had been repeated on daily terms.

    If asked, Chief, why don''t you get angry?

    Troublesome!

    Why don''t you take a break from work?

    Troublesome!

    Why didn''t you just call me?

    Troublesome!

    Why don''t you want to go to the dinner party?

    Troublesome!

    Why don''t you have friends?

    Troublesome!

    This one ''troublesome'' had to be the most constant thing in her life. If Raelle was ''X'' then ''troublesome'' was that X''s constant value. That never changed!

    But that didn''t mean Raelle was easygoing. She''d let you off anything except for when people tried to y dirty. She was an honest and straightforward person. Cheating, lying, disloyalty, nder, none of it sat well with the values she had learned from her grandfather.

    As soon as Cloe had heard the voice of that Director Mo, she could already tell why her boss went out of her way toe here. Since she didn''t like troublesome things, she didn''t like troublesome people like this Director Mo as well.

    "Before I entered, you wereplimenting me so highly," Raelle''s cold and elegant voice rang out. "Howe you are so quiet now?"

    Everyone''s face turned red all over again.

    With her lips curved up, she went on, "And Director Mo, if you''re so envious of my fashion sense, you could havee to me for help anytime." Cloe pursed her lips to stifle herughter while Raelle continued, "I won''t be stingy with sharing my style secret. After all, it''s not like my fashion sense would help you climb thedder."

    Director Mo''s expressions darkened, he tried to restrain himself before her, "President Xiang, you''re my boss but don''t forget that I''m a senior in age and experience both."

    "I neither care about your age nor about your experience. Didn''t you say I''m a rude brat?" said Raelle as she straightened up. "I only care about your work value and moral conduct. But you seemed tock in both categories!"

    "President Xiang!" Director Mo''s voice raised. Even if she was his boss, he wasn''t scared of her. He also had his own backers. This stinky girl couldn''t fire him so easily! "Don''t go overboard! Just because you''re the CEO doesn''t mean you can say anything as you please. As an employee, I also have rights. Besides, people like you can only be this arrogant because of employees like us who work hard to fill your bank ounts and boost your egos."

    There wasn''t a single change in Raelle''s expressions. She looked just as indifferent as before as she parted her lips to say, "It''s employees like you who only bring shame to mypany''s name." She took a pause briefly to add, "What did you say earlier? I seduced my way up? Why? Are you jealous that you couldn''t seduce anyone? Or is it that even if you threw yourself on someone''s bed, they won''t take goods like you?"

    "You! Do you think everyone is like you?!" Director Mo pointed a finger at her hatefully.

    Raelle tutted, "It''s a pity that not everyone is like me." She pulled out an envelope from her coat''s pocket and threw the photos inside at the table. The photos scattered around and everyone could clearly see the content of the photos.

    Those were the photos of Director Mo in bed with different young girls either from theirpany or from outside. They couldn''t recognize the faces of the girls because of the camera angle but the face of Director Mo was very clear in each shot!

    "It''s cheap people like you who can''t even seduce someone and then resort to ckmailing others through underhanded ways," Raelle''s words fell and Director Mo''s eyes went round in shock. Seeing the irond evidence before his eyes, he frantically tried to gather all the photos but the situation couldn''t be salvaged since everyone had already seen it all.

    "What seniority?" asked Raelle. "I don''t think I need to acknowledge a filthy senior like you. Manner? Were you taught any in your life? Respect? Someone like you don''t even respect his own wife and y around outside like this, what respect are you expecting from me?"

    "You''re ndering me! This is all fake! I''m not falling for it!"

    Not paying any attention to him, Raelle directly informed him, "By tomorrow, you''ll receive the court orders. I''ve already filed awsuit against you." She extended her hand towards Cloe, who consciously ced some documents in her hands. Raelle pped it at the table saying, "This is the proof of you taking bribes from the contractors. No wonder you called me headstrong, just because I didn''t y along with your wishes and chose thepany you had taken a big bribe from."

    She stood up and fixed her coat, "I don''t know how long I''llst, but you''re definitely finished! I''ve already sent a copy of all the evidence to your wife as well. No need to thank me!" With that, she turned around and stopped at the door to say, "Enjoy your dinner everyone! It''s still on me. But something tells me you won''t be able to swallow it anymore."

    As she strode out, the heavy mood in the private room, turned even more unsightly. Those who had been involved with Director Mo lost the color of their faces. And the rest were also panicking whether they still had a job or not? Because Raelle hadn''t said a word from start to end to them.

    Leaving the restaurant, Cloe asked, "Chief, you had the evidence. You already filed thewsuit. You even prepared for the aftermath as well. Then why did you juste here to announce it yourself?"

    "Wasn''t it fun?" retorted Raelle. "How else would I see those panic-stricken expressions? Yanyan said I should also do something for my enjoyment."

    Cloe''s face twitched as she thought, ''What fun? You clearly did it to give them slow-burning torture!''

    She sighed to herself and asked, "Then what about the rest of them? Do you want to fire them?"

    "What for?" was Raelle''s response. "Those who are guilty definitely has to get their retribution. As for the rest, they can stay. I''m feeling quite generous tonight."

    Cloe really wanted to curse her out loud now. ''What feeling generous? You''re gonna make them work to their blood and bones to get back the value you invested.'' Clearly, she could still read Raelle well enough. Maybe it was Raelle effect at work again because Cloe didn''t even feel pity for any of them.

    You reap what you sow!

 Chapter 30 - A Husband

    *Bam!*

    This was the fifteenth time Raelle had mmed Hyson on the mat. d in a white uniform with a ck belt around her waist, she stood up and looked down at him who was acting as if he died.

    Her foot nudged him as she said, "Stop acting dead! Get up already!"

    Hyson opened his eyes but didn''t stand up, "Do you think I''m good at acting dead?"

    "How is that possible?" she retorted. "You''re not good at anything! Not even dying!"

    "Thanks! That''s the way to cheer up your best friend! Just beat him to death!" Obviously, he was being sardonic but she wasn''t paying much attention to his tone. She had long gotten used to his mood swings. "I came to look for you to cheer me up because I was feeling upset. And you! You did this to me! How cruel!"

    "It''s not my fault that you had been distracted all throughout our warming up." She pointed at the ck belt around his waist as she added, "Otherwise, we both are usually equally matched."

    "This was warming up?" he questioned with a horrified expression.

    "Yeah! The real game is just about to begin," as she took a step closer, he rolled his body far away. "Where are you running?"

    He got on his knees and begged, "Boss, spare me! I''ll never look for you to cheer me up again!"

    "What? Didn''t I help? I''ve beaten you till you have forgotten all about the issue that was bothering you."

    Listening to Raelle''s standpoint on this situation, his lips twitched before he burst outughing. Heughed for a long while before saying, "You''re right. I forgot everything now!"

    "That''s good then. See? I''m still very useful," she sounded quite proud of herself and Hyson could only shake his head at her.

    She took the water bottle from Cloe who was standing at the sidelines to watch this scene. And threw another one at him before asking, "So, what has been bothering you?"

    "Nothing," he said. They sat at the chairs ced at the far corner of the gym. "You tell me, when are you getting married?"

    Raelle gulped down the water before saying casually, "Today."

    He spurted out the water he had yet to swallow and coughed. Why did this girl always dropped a bomb on him when was drinking something and that too so casually? "What?" She looked at him nkly. "Are you for real?" She nodded and he continued, "Then what the hell are you doing here?"

    She shrugged her shoulders, "It''s lunchtime."

    "So?"

    "So, I can do whatever I want during my lunch break. Besides, we decided to meet at 4 p.m." That was all she said in a very casual andid back manner. Definitely not sounding like someone who was getting married today!

    Hyson stared at her face for a long while before saying, "I always knew something is wrong with your brain. But today, you showed me a whole new world."

    Raelle didn''t pay attention to his words but said, "What else do you want me to do? I can''t possibly take the whole day off just for 20 minutes job."

    "20 minutes job?" repeated Hyson strangely.

    Raelle nodded her head, "Isn''t registering your marriage at the Civil Service Bureau a 20 minutes job? If it is so convenient, I should be doing it when I''m free. Why would I waste my whole day over such a thing?"

    Hyson threw his head back and took deep breaths. He didn''t want to say anything. It was of no use anyway. She won''t listen.

    "What''s your husband''s opinion regarding this?" he questioned.

    "He is okay with it," replied Raelle. "He said he also had an important meeting so he''ll be going straight there."

    "You guys won''t even go to the Civil Service Bureau together?"

    "Why would we go together? I have to go from my own office, he has to go from his ownpany. If one of us went to pick the other, it''d waste at least 45 minutes. Too troublesome!"

    Hyson had an urge to punch her face right there and then! She and her ''troublesome'' always went hand in hand!

    He took a moment to think about it before decided that since they had no issue with it, then why was he worried. It was like the Emperor wasid back while the Eunuch was panicking. He really needed to stop thinking about it.

    And with that thought, he did stop thinking about it. Instead, he asked, "By the way, who really is this husband of yours?"

    "Won''t tell you," replied Raelle. "What if you found his looks to your liking and tried to seduce him. What would I do?"

    Hyson poked her head saying, "You really should buy a filter for this pretty mouth of yours!"

    Raelle was pleased to hear that, "Everyone tells me to buy a filter but none of you bother telling me where can I buy this so-called filter? I definitely didn''t find it anywhere."

    Hyson facepalmed himself and decided to shut up.

    However, this resolve onlysted until they hade back after changing their clothes. He looked at her and said, "After getting those red booklets, send me a photo of the two of you."

    "What are you gonna do with it?" she inquired.

    "I''d watch it and cry over losing my first love," he retorted exasperatedly.

    "Aww... I didn''t know you loved me. Why didn''t you say so earlier? Now, I''m already gone too far."

    He snorted, "Who said you''re my first love? I was talking about your husband." He stuck his tongue out at her and provoked her.

    But Raelle was rather amused as she followed him out saying, "Even before marriage I already havepetition. How interesting!" She was quiet for a minute, "Oi! You''re really not gonna tell me why you''re upset?"

    Hyson shrugged his shoulders nonchntly as he put on his hoodie and said, "It''s nothing important. It''s your important day. It''s better if you focus on that!"

    "How is this counted an important day? I didn''t strike any deal today," was her response. "No new deal equals no new profit or gain."

    "But you''re gaining something," he said. "Something very important."

    "What?" she asked curiously.

    "A husband!" was his reply as he shed her a toothy grin before running off towards the back door of the gym building.

 Chapter 31 - Random Guy

    "I''m almost there, what about you?"

    That was the first thing Shui Xian heard when he picked up Raelle''s call. He just came out of the meeting when she called him. He looked at the time, it was quarter to 4. Because the holidays had just ended a few days ago, he had been very busy. But he still didn''t think he''d be stuck in the meeting for this long.

    "I just came out of the meeting, will be there as soon as possible," he replied and taking advantage of his long legs, took long strides. He was walking in such a hurry that even his assistant was having trouble keeping up with him. And he was also clueless about why Master Xian was in such a hurry today.

    Raelle looked up from the iPad screen and replied, "Okay, then don''t bete. I''m a very patient person, but I don''t wait for people."

    "I can tell," was his response before they ended the call. He gave some instructions to his assistant before leaving the office before the working hours. And as he left so early, everyone in thepany started gossiping about why Master Xian left early today. After all, since the time, he took over the business, he''d be found in the office even after the working works.

    There were a lot of wild guesses but there was no real conclusion. It left people feeling restless and curious.

    ....

    Cloe looked at her boss through the rearview mirror and frowned in confusion. Raelle had asked her to clear her schedule after 3 o''clock. But she wasn''t given any exnation regarding it. It wasn''t like Raelle ever gave her any clear answers but it was even more inconceivable that she was actually ditching work for something.

    But when the car stopped outside the Civil Service Bureau, Cloe''s brain really nked out. She tried to think of all possibilities why her boss would want toe here. But none fit. "Chief, are we at the right ce?"

    Raelle looked at the building and nodded her head, "Seems like it." She alighted from the car and wore her big ck shades that covered almost half of her face.

    Cloe followed her out and stood beside her as she asked, "Chief, what business do we have here?"

    Raelle was observing everyone around her as she replied, "Not we, I came here for an important business. You can leave now." While Cloe was hesitating whether to question further or not, when Raelle''s voice rang out again, "By the way, how am I looking?"

    Cloe was stunned by that question. It was not hard to answer the question, it was hard to understand why this question was being asked. She looked at Raelle from top to bottom. Those burgundy culottes matched with a white shirt and nude shoes along with the red and pink id zer that was carelessly draped over her shoulders gave her a bold look. With her looks and those clothes, did she even have to ask how she looked? The answer was very obvious!

    She gave her two thumbs up saying, "As always, Chief, is looking super cool and gorgeous!" She wasn''t trying to tter her, she wasplimenting sincerely.

    Raelle touched the golden hoop earring and said, "It was pointless to ask you." She had heard the same thing from people so many times, that it seemed too perfunctory now.

    Cloe felt wronged when Raelle said that but she still dared to ask, "But, Chief, what''s the asion?"

    "I''m getting married," was Raelle''s casual response. "You can leave now. Since I''m taking the next couple of hours off, you should work in my ce. Don''tze around. Let me know as soon as the new contract is delivered."

    Cloe was in a daze after hearing Raelle''s response and even nodded in a daze. She didn''t know how she got back inside the car and left. She just knew her brain was reeling from shock. She couldn''t even question Raelle whether she was joking or being serious? Because she already knew the answer; Raelle didn''t joke around such stuff.

    Maybe she had heard her wrong? She questioned herself doubtfully. Yes, she definitely heard wrong. There was no other exnation for this.

    Raelle found herself a ce to sit and sat down as she took out her iPad from the handbag and continued to read the reports.

    Shui Xian had tried to drive as fast as he could. He didn''t even bring his driver or assistant with him. But the traffic still made him dy for ten minutes. When he reached his destination, he found Raelle very easily. She was sitting at a very conspicuous ce after all. And let''s not forget, how everyone around here would at least look in her direction once. She really didn''t know how many heads turned, all thanks to her.

    "Sorry, got stuck in traffic."

    Raelle looked up and gave him a smile as she stood up and looked at the time. "You''rete."

    "I know. That''s why I apologized," said Shui Xian.

    Raelle put her iPad back inside and said, "If you hadn''te for another five minutes, I would have..."

    "What?" he questioned. "You would have left?"

    Raelle shook her head, "How can I waste my trip? If I''m already here, I might just do what I came to do." Shui Xian''s brows jumped up slightly and she borated, "I''d have picked a random guy and got married to him."

    Shui Xian was left speechless for a minute. "Something tells me you are not the kind of person who''d be able to marry any random guy."

    Raelle looked up into his eyes, "You shouldn''t forget that you''re also just a random guy to me." She took off the shades and said, "But you are a special random guy."

    "Oh? How so?" he questioned.

    "You''re the random guy my grandfather selected for me," replied Raelle with a smile. Then she turned around and added, "Let''s get this over with, shall we?"

 Chapter 32 - Status Upgrade

    It took them about 30 minutes to get their red marriage booklets. Raelle opened it and continued to look at their photo. She finally closed it and looked at Shui Xian as she said, "Congrattion!"

    "Are you really congratting me for getting married?" he inquired bemusedly.

    Raelle straightforwardly shook her head, "Nope! I''m congratting you because... Your status just got upgraded."

    "You mean rtionship status changed right?"

    "No, no..." she faintly smiled and went on, "I mean to say that you''re status literally got upgraded in 30 minutes. From a random guy, you just became my husband. How do you feel about it?"

    "I feel like..." Shui Xian paused and closed his eyes briefly. "I need a drink. The stronger the better!"

    Raelle replied casually, "People usually around me need a drink."

    Shui Xian wanted to say, he could tell why. No one would be able to deal with her sober. It was a task on its own. He didn''t feel this tired all day as much he felt trying to talk to her.

    "Where is your car?" he asked.

    "We just got our marriage license, you already want to go separate ways?"

    "No!" he poked her head. "I was gonna say, if your car is still here, send it back. Because you''re obviouslying with me, wife!"

    "Wife?" Raelle repeated it softly as if trying to see how it rolled out on her tongue. Finding nothing wrong with it, she said, "I know already. Don''t we have dinner to get to? Your family and mine will be there. Right?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head and led her to his own Maybach. He opened the door for her before going around to take his own seat. As he was getting his keys out, he felt a box in his pocket and hit his own head.

    Taking the rectangr box out, he said, "I forgot to give this to you."

    Raelle looked at the wedding bands he held and voiced out, "I was wondering when you''ll get to that." She extended her hand towards him, "Go on!"

    Shui Xian put the ring on her hand and she did the same for him. But before he could pull his hands away, she ced their hands, side by side, and said, "I think it''s pretty."

    "I''m d you like it," he said it actually meaning his words. He saw her taking her phone out and asked, "What are you doing?"

    She ced her hand over his in a way that their rings showed and clicked a photo as she stated the obvious, "I''m taking a picture."

    "Wow! My wife is so smart," his tone and words both were sarcastic right now. "Even I can tell you''re taking a photo. But why?"

    Raelle didn''t reply, she unbuckled her seatbelt and slung her arm around his shoulder. Her face was right by his side and she opened the front camera. Through the camera, she could see that he was looking at the side of her face instead of focusing here.

    "Look here!" she said and Shui Xian finally turned his head to look at the camera. "Smile a little."

    "I don''t..."

    Before he could say anything, she went on, "Even I have learned to fake smile in all these years. Don''t tell me you can''t even do that! Just put up your business smile."

    Shui Xian didn''t think it was necessary to tell her that he didn''t have a business smile. He always greeted everyone coldly to the point that if he even smiled now, they might get more scared. But right now, he didn''t have to fake a smile at all. His lips naturally lifted slightly and his features softened a little.

    *Click!*

    Raelle got back in her seat and fastened the seatbelt with a satisfied smile. Obviously, she clicked these snaps for her best friend. She wasn''t fond of taking her own photos but Hyson was. And he had especially asked her to send him a photo of her with her husband. Usually, she might ignore his request but today, he did look out of sorts, so she decided to just grant his wish.

    It was just one picture anyway. Besides, it was helpful to her as well. She sent the same picture to Mu Chenyan and was pleased with her own n. This was truly killing three birds with one stone. In the other words, just one picture was enough to satisfy Hyson, Mu Chenyan, and her grandfather. Where else would you get a better offer?

    Shui Xian actually didn''t question why she wanted to take a photo together. His mind was elsewhere. He was about to start the car when his eyes fell on another rectangr box on his dashboard. This one was wrapped up like it was a gift. He frowned in confusion. He couldn''t recall having such a thing when he came.

    He looked at his newly wedded wife who was busy on her cell phone before opening the box. Inside, he found a note that read, ''Happy Marriage, dear husband. From, your wife!''

    Apart from that note, he found a pair of customized cufflinks which again had his initials on them. It was exactly the kind he usually wore. Not only that, she had actually got it from ''Moonlight.''

    He pursed his lips together and looked at her, "Thanks for the gift!"

    Raelle waved her hand nonchntly, "It wasn''t a big deal."

    "Why did you ce it here?" he questioned.

    "Because I don''t like giving gifts to someone directly."

    He closed the box and ced it in his suit jacket before asking, "Why did you give me a gift? I didn''t prepare anything for you."

    Raelle held up her hand that had the wedding ring, "Isn''t this a gift?"

    "That''s not a gift. That''s something I should be giving you. It''s my responsibility. It''s something I should be giving you as your husband."

    Raelle stared at the ring for a while intently before whispering, "Then it''s better if it''s not a gift." His brows arched up as she continued, "I don''t like taking gifts."

    "But you seem to love giving gifts," he retorted before stepping on the gas. She couldn''t argue with this statement.

 Chapter 33 - Husband, Youâ€™re Impressive

    Just as Hyson had told Raelle, he was really feeling down today. Spending time with Raelle was tiring and a challenge, but he still loved it. At least, she really managed to lift his mood somewhat!

    Later, he didn''t go to the dorms where he lived with his group''s members. Today, he chose to visit his mother instead. But seeing that she was busy with her customers when he came, he went to his room and directly went to sleep. It was a good opportunity to catch up on some sleep.

    It was around 5 o''clock in the evening when he woke up because he felt someone shaking him. He groggily turned to his side and looked at his mother who had her hands on her waist and stared at him angrily.

    "What?" he hurriedly questioned. "Why are you so angry?"

    He looked at his mother''s hands as she told him through gestures, ''Is this your time to sleep? Did youe home to sleep?''

    Hyson kneeled on the bed and hugged her waist saying, "No, I came to hug my mom. But mom was busy when I came, so I just decided to sleep. Besides, you should be happy that I''m resting."

    His mother curled her fingers and knocked on his head. He pulled away as she made hand gestures to let him know, ''I''m not upset that you''re resting. I''m upset because you went to sleep without eating anything.''

    "Oh..." was all he said looking at his mother''s small frame. Yes, his mother couldn''t speak. And he did grow up in a single-parent home. Growing up, his family wasn''t well to do but his mother worked hard enough to provide him with everything he needed. He rubbed his stomach and grinned, "Now that I think about it, I''m pretty hungry. Mom, how about you make me some hot and sour noodle soup?"

    His mother stroked his head lovingly and nodded her head.

    As she left his room, he got up to freshen up. He was feeling refreshed and energetic after this nap. He found his phone from the bedside table and was surprised to see so many missed calls and messages. He realized his phone had been on silent and that''s why he didn''t hear anything. As he was about to unlock the phone, his phone rang again.

    Seeing his manager''s name on the screen, he took a deep breath and answered the call, "Brother Yi, you''re looking for me?"

    "You didn''te to the dorm?"

    "Wanted to spend some time with my mom," he replied honestly.

    "That''s alright then," replied Brother Yi. "I called you to inform you that tomorrow we''ll be having a meeting. I''lle to pick you up so be ready."

    "Yes, I''ll be ready," Hyson replied and hung up the phone.

    Then, he scrolled through the notifications and found that he had a message from Raelle. He was a bit taken aback by this sudden surprise. She''d rarely send a message. Usually, if she was trying to contact him, she''d directly make a call as she found it less bothersome. Typing was definitely ''Troublesome.''

    He clicked on the chat and saw the photo that came before his eyes. His phone literally slid out of his hand and fell down. He was nkly staring at his hands which held nothing now. He didn''t know how long he spent like that before slowly and carefully, he picked up the phone and saw the photo again.

    He could recognize Raelle but he could also recognize the man sitting beside her!!! And that''s why he ended up dropping his phone because he was shocked. He repeatedly blinked and changed the angle but the man looked exactly like he remembered.

    He hurriedly dialed Raelle''s number. Thetter had just reached the restaurant where they were supposed to have dinner with family. She alighted from the car and answered the call.

    "You! Did you really just got married to Shui Xian? As in Master Xian?"

    Raelle''s voice didn''t change as she replied, "Yes. Why? Did you think it''s a joke?"

    Hyson shook his head which she couldn''t obviously see, "No! I already know you don''t joke. I''m just in a bit of a shock."

    "Shock? Why?" questioned Raelle.

    "You''re right, there is nothing shocking about this. There are only a few people in this country who can match you in status and looks both. And Master Xian is definitely the one at the top. I shouldn''t be shocked at all."

    "You know my husband?"

    Hyson rolled his eyes at her since she wasn''t around. "Elle! Who doesn''t know your husband in this whole country? Although he rarely shows his face in the media, I''m not that oblivious to forget him. Shui Conglomerate is a Tech Giant around here! They are thergest video game vendors in the whole world! They are among thergest social media, venture capital, and investment corporations. I''d be an idiot if I don''t know him."

    "Oh..." was Raelle''s response. "I didn''t know my husband was this impressive."

    Shui Xian had juste around to her side when he heard that and frowned slightly, "What?"

    Raelle looked at his face and repeated, "Husband, you''re impressive!"

    While Shui Xian stared at her strangely, Hyson was facepalming himself. With Raelle personality, he didn''t even have to think much to know that she must haven''t even bothered to search anything about this husband of hers.

    "You''re with him right now?" he asked.

    "En."

    "Suddenly, I really pity your husband."

    "What for?"

    "He has to deal with you," replied Hyson. "I''m hanging up now. By the way, congrattions on your marriage!"

    Before Raelle could say anything, he had already disconnected the call. Staring at the screen, she muttered, "Being my friend, whose side are you on?"

    "Are you nning on standing here for the rest of the evening?"

    Raelle looked up at Shui Xian who had extended his hand towards her. She looked at his hand for a while before holding it as she said, "No no. Definitely not gonna stand here."

 Chapter 34 - Family Dinner

    When Raelle and Shui Xian entered the private room booked by their families, everyone was already present. Two seats were left empty considerably for the newlyweds.

    Seeing Raelle''s hand in Shui Xian, Grandfather Xiang''s lips curved up in a smile that came straight from his heart. Even his strict countenance slightly softened.

    "Ah! You''re finally here. Come, join us..."

    As Raelle was gonna sit with Mu Chenyan, thetter said, "Go over there and sit with your father-inw. Let me sit with our son-inw."

    Raelle looked at her face before saying, "I''m still here and you''ve already changed sides?"

    Before Mu Chenyan could say anything in her defense, Grandfather Xiang spoke up, "Poppet..."

    That was enough for Raelle to move to the other chair that was beside Shui Koshing who had a gentle smile on his face. Raelle looked at him and noticed the small but unmistakable simrities between him and Shui Xian. Although Shui Koshing didn''t have the dazzling beauty like youths, his countenance was like a trickling stream, well worth a second nce. And not to mention the amiable and gentle look in his eyes that made people feelfortable around him.

    "We finally meet," said Shui Koshing. Raelle bowed her head slightly to greet him and he chuckled softly, "No doubt, you look even more beautiful in person. I feel so fortunate to get this beautiful daughter."

    Raelle''s movements paused ever so slightly but Mu Chenyan had noticed it already. This was Raelle''s first time hearing someone calling her ''daughter.'' It sounded strange for some reason. She was a granddaughter to her grandfather, and Mu Chenyan had always treated her as a friend she could lean on. So, the term ''daughter'' had been missing from her life.

    Grandfather Xiang took the lead to say, "Poppet, greet your father nicely."

    "F-Father?" she repeated as she looked at her grandfather.

    Mu Chenyan borated it for her, "Your husband''s father is now your father as well. So, obviously, you should be calling him father."

    Shui Koshing also added, "Xian calls me B¨¤, if you like you can call me the same way." He noticed the way Raelle hadn''t moved and went on, "Actually, I don''t mind how you call me. Just treat me as a friend and call me by my name. Whichever way you like it, we''d do it."

    "Does daughter-inw get special privilege?" voiced out Shui Xian. "You never gave me such an offer."

    "You still do whatever you want," was Shui Koshing''s reply before he turned back to Raelle. "Why aren''t you saying anything?"

    Raelle''s lips curved up slightly before she leaned over and whispered to Shui Koshing, "It seems Yanyan said a lot about me to you. No wonder you''re so attentive."

    Shui Koshing was amused by her words and chuckled before replying in the same way, "I''m not being cautious. I just want my daughter to feelfortable. I don''t want you to feel like you''re leaving something behind."

    Raelle looked at him carefully before saying, "It seems you do know I''m weird and yet you chose me for your son?"

    Shui Koshing was about to ce his hand on her head but stopped himself since he knew she''d take time to get used to his presence. Instead, he said, "It''s because you''re peculiar that I selected you for my son. But the main reason is, I chose you because I like you."

    "What secrets are you telling her?" asked Shui Xian.

    "Well, I need to share some embarrassing moments of your life with her. How else will I bond with my daughter?"

    "So, you''re nning on bonding over my misery?"

    Raelle suddenly spoke up, "Oh, I like that idea. Bonding over someone''s misery. I like it!"

    Shui Xian looked at Raelle and his father before saying, "It seems you both are gonna be very good friends."

    "I think so too," agreed Shui Koshing without hesitation.

    Shui Xian shook his head at his father and felt like someone was staring at him. He turned his head and saw both Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan looking at him intently.

    "It''s an honor to meet you, Major Xiang," said Shui Xian in a polite manner.

    "I''m already retired," answered Grandfather Xiang. "But it''s nice to know that you did your research."

    "I didn''t have to," replied Shui Xian. "You''re grandfather''s friend. I remember meeting you when I was young. You used toe to see my grandfather." He took a pause and added, "And I''ve also seen your photos in grandfather''s study. He used to talk about you a lot.

    Grandfather Xiang nodded in understanding, "I didn''t think you''d remember meeting me." He was pleased to hear that the young man before him could actually recall such an old memory. He sighed out and said, "It was your grandfather who originally wanted his one and only grandson to marry my granddaughter. I really didn''t think his wish woulde true in this way."

    Shui Xian was surprised to hear that. Although he knew his grandfather wished for him to marry someone of his choice, he never learned who that person was. Now, that he sat there, he realized how he took so many turns to reach the same ce his grandfather had wished for him.

    "Our Elle is very special in her own way. I hope you take care of her," said Mu Chenyan. "Although she seems very capable, she doesn''t know anything about taking care of herself."

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "You don''t even have to say that. She is my wife, it''s my responsibility to take care of her to the best of my abilities."

    Hearing him say it like that, Mu Chenyan''s heart settled. She was genuinely happy to hear this. And she could see that Shui Xian wasn''t being perfunctory. His sincerity could be seen in his eyes.

    "I believe my extra special granddaughter has already tested your patience?"

    Shui Xian''s lips parted as he looked at Grandfather Xiang''s straightforward words.

    "Elder Xiang," Mu Chenyan called him in a low voice.

    He didn''t pay attention as he continued to look at Shui Xian, "I can tell with just one look."

    Shui Xian couldn''t seem to hide it anymore as he nodded his head.

 Chapter 35 - Honeymoon?

    Seeing him nod like this Mu Chenyan sighed out. She poured Shui Xian a drink and said, "Then I believe you must have felt like having a strong drink." Shui Xian was surprised that she read his thoughts. He did ask for a drink earlier because of Raelle. Mu Chenyan shook her head at his expression and added, "Our Elle usually makes people feel like drinking. She seems to be pretty good at it."

    Shui Xian didn''t know why but hearing this made his lips curve up in an imperceptible smile. He was amused to know that Raelle''s family knew her so well. But not only that, he felt good knowing that Raelle was the same with everyone. He wasn''t the only one she tried to annoy on purpose.

    He looked at Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan before voicing out, "Actually, she is pretty interesting." He looked at Raelle who was talking to his father and added, "She is difficult to talk to but she is very adorable at times."

    Both Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan shared a look of relief.

    Soon, dinner was served and everyone started talking candidly. Grandfather Xiang was already satisfied with Shui Xian and that''s why he selected him for his granddaughter. However, this meeting allowed Mu Chenyan to rx as well. She could finally set her heart at ease.

    Suddenly the topic of conversation shifted to Raelle and Shui Xian''s wedding...

    "I actually wanted to hold a grand wedding ceremony for you both but your grandfather said you won''t like it," stated Shui Koshing.

    "That''d be troublesome," was Raelle''s reply. "Why bother going through all that trouble? We can save money, effort, and time by just registering the marriage."

    "Elle..."

    Raelle looked at Mu Chenyan and asked innocently, "What? Did I say something wrong?"

    Shui Koshing chuckled at her response and said, "Actually, you didn''t. You''re right. It''d be too much of a hassle." Shui Koshing looked at Grandfather Xiang who was rubbing his temples. It seemed like she was exactly as he was told about her. This made him feel eager to see how the rtionship between Raelle and Xian would evolve.

    As a father, he only wanted his son''s happiness. And he had a feeling, Raelle was that incredible dose of happiness that had been missing from Xian''s life.

    "Koshing, don''t encourage her," said Grandfather Xiang in a low voice. He looked at his granddaughter and went on, "And Poppet, just because you got out of the wedding ceremony doesn''t mean we won''t be holding a reception."

    "Oh," was her dry response. "Is it necessary though?"

    "You don''t have to think about it for now," said Shui Koshing. "We''ll hold the reception after a month or so. In the meantime, it''s better that you both try to spend more and more time together."

    "Spend time together?" repeated Raelle as she looked at Shui Xian whose eyes were already fixed on her face.

    "We know you both are very busy," started Shui Koshing. "So, nning a long honeymoon might be difficult. But it''s the weekend which means you can definitely go for a small getaway. Right?"

    While Shui Xian was thinking, she''d have some issues with this suggestion, Raelle enthusiastically said, "Where? I mean where can we go? Since we can''t go far, how about some interesting ce in the city or close to the city? I actually haven''t seen anything here apart from my office building."

    Shui Xian lowered his voice and whispered close to her ear, "Do you even know what a honeymoon means?"

    She nodded her head, "Hubby, what do you take me for?" Shui Xian was stunned by that one ''hubby'' while she went on, "Honeymoon is a holiday spent together by a newly married couple."

    Shui Xian suddenly lifted his hand and patted her head saying, "Wife, you''re really good at textbook definitions." For some reason, his hand lingered on the top of her head longer than it was necessary.

    "I know," she replied with her ever so brilliant but fake smile.

    Seeing their interaction, it took a moment for Shui Koshing to remember what he originally was talking about. Clearing his throat to get their attention, he asked, "So, where would my daughter like to go? I''ll make the arrangements."

    "Anything is fine by me," said Raelle in reply.

    "If you have a specific ce in mind, you can share it with me."

    Raelle shook her head, "I don''t."

    Shui Koshing nodded his head, "That''s great then."

    Shui Xian looked at his father''s excitement and smiling face and felt like time had turned back. Since the death of his mother, he had rarely seen his father smiling like this. His happiness could even be seen in his eyes. It really made him feel happy. Since the original purpose of marrying Raelle was to make his father happy, he was content to see that it worked.

    When the dinner ended, Mu Chenyan hugged Raelle tightly and sniffled.

    "Yanyan, I''m not dying."

    Mu Chenyan hit her arm while ring at her, "How many times have I warned you to not say such words casually?"

    Raelle looked at her worried face and was at a loss. She really couldn''t tell why her Yanyan was crying but since she was, she could onlyfort her in her own way. Hugging back, she said, "I meant to say that I''m still in the same city. Just one phone call away. So, don''t waste your precious tears. What if you get dehydrated?"

    Mu Chenyan took a deep breath and even forgot to cry. She caressed Raelle''s head and said, "Missy, now you''re married. And as a wife, you''ll have some responsibilities. But never forget, before anything else, it''s your job to take care of your husband''s needs."

    "Take care of him?" questioned Raelle. "What is he? A kid? Can''t he take care of himself?"

    "I''m gonna p you if you said such nonsense before your husband as well," warned Mu Chenyan. But even Raelle knew that she didn''t have it in her to even put a scratch on her.

    Raelle deadpanned, "Isn''t it a littlete for you to tell me this? I think I''ve already said enough nonsense before him."

    Mu Chenyan held her forehead and cried, "Goodness, gracious! What am I to do with you?"

    Raelle patted her back, "At this point, you really can''t do anything."

 Chapter 36 - Cold? Or Warm?

    "Give me the key," said Raelle as she extended her hand towards Shui Xian whose brows arched up in question. "Car key..." she repeated. "You drank with my grandfather. It''s better if I drive."

    "I didn''t drink that much," said Shui Xian. "I''m fine."

    Raelle shook her head, "Justst year around 11,000 people died in drunk-driving car crashes. Although death is ineluctable, one should still not y with other''s lives." She moved her fingers as if saying to hurry up and Shui Xian eventually ced the key into her hand.

    He took the passenger seat and asked, "By the way, do you even know the way?"

    "What are you here for?" she retorted.

    "So, now I am a guide?" he questioned.

    She shrugged her shoulders, "More or less."

    So, Mr. More-or-Less-Guide continued to give her directions as she drove. He noticed how she followed the traffic rules precisely. She seemed like a really good citizen abiding by thews. However, her speed was just at the edge of the allowed speed limit. It seemed like her nature; she was a good person lingering around the edge of the dangerous side. It depended on who''d push her over the line and how.

    He leaned into his seat and rested his head as he closed his eyes briefly. Suddenly thinking of something, he asked, "By the way, who is Miss Mu Chenyan?"

    "Yanyan is Yanyan," she replied calmly.

    He turned his head slightly to look at the side of her face as she drove with all her attention on the road. "I meant, who is she to you?"

    "Yanyan to me is also Yanyan," responded Raelle making Shui Xian want to facepalm himself.

    "Wife, I''m asking what is your rtionship with her?"

    "Oh..." It seemed she finally understood what he wanted to know. But the answer wasn''t as simple for her to give as it seemed. "Yanyan is the adopted daughter of myte grandmother."

    "Then that makes her your aunt," said Shui Xian.

    "Maybe," she replied.

    "What to do mean by maybe? Isn''t it obvious?" He took a pause briefly, "But actually, she seems more like your mother. The way she cares about you is definitely like a mother."

    Raelle stopped at a red light and looked at him, "Looking back, all my memories have Yanyan. Even my very first drink had been with her. She had always been standing right behind me. Whenever I turned my head, I''d find her there. So, it''s difficult for me to say what she is to me. I just know she is Yanyan... That one person who I can trust without any hesitation."

    Shui Xian had been meaning to ask her about her parents but when she said this, he stopped. He didn''t know why but he had an intuition, he wasn''t supposed to ask about her parents.

    However, just because he didn''t ask it, didn''t mean she would do the same...

    "How about your family? Do you only have a father?"

    Shui Xian rubbed his forehead and replied, "No, I have a sister as well. She''s one year younger than me." He was wondering if she''d ask about his mother but she didn''t. In fact, she didn''t even ask where his sister was or why she wasn''t at the dinner. "Won''t you ask why my sister wasn''t there tonight?"

    "It''s a busy world, everyone has their own priorities. I can''t expect everyone to be there to greet me," replied Raelle. She looked around at the neighborhood and asked, "Are you sure we are at the right ce?"

    Shui Xian peeled his eyes away from her face and looked out. "Yeah. We are in the right ce."

    As Raelle drove into the driveway through the metal gates, she tapped the steering wheel.

    "What''s wrong?"

    "Earlier, Yanyan was crying as if I''m immigrating. And here I am, right next to her!"

    "Huh?" Shui Xian was dumbfounded.

    Raelle pointed around saying, "She''s literally next door! As in the vi right beside this one. And yet, she cried like I wasn''t gonna ever see her again."

    "Wait! You''re saying, we had been neighbors all this while?"

    Raelle nodded her head, "En."

    With a strange mood, Raelle followed Shui Xian inside the vi where a bunch of servants stood in line to greet him. "Master Xian..."

    "You all can leave now," said Shui Xian as he stepped inside with Raelle right behind him. She was looking around the vi and didn''t realize that Shui Xian had stopped walking. So, she ended up hitting his back.

    Rubbing her nose she stated, "You broke my nose! What a great way to wee someone!"

    Shui Xian held her wrist and pulled it down. His face came close to hers as he looked at the tip of her nose that had gotten red but not because of bumping into him. Rather it was because of her rubbing it so hard. Her skin seemed to be sensitive as it reddened so fast.

    His hot breath hit the side of her face as she continued to look at his wless skin from this close.

    "I don''t think it broke," he said in a husky voice.

    Raelle didn''t react. Instead, she lifted her hand and touched his eyshes with the tip of her index finger. "Hubby, you have long eyshes." She tapped her chin and went on, "I read somewhere recently... It''s like the feathers of a fan-casting a shadow on his wless cheekbones. Giving him an alluring feel."

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched. He ced his forehead against hers and asked, "I''m just curious for a while now. Wife, where do you even read all this? And what exactly are you reading?"

    Now that his forehead was against hers, she could stare right into his eyes. And it didn''t make her gaze falter. Instead, it seemed she was even more curious to look deeply. Look deeper into his soul.

    "I heard some rumors about you." His brows raised up ever so slightly as she went on, "People say Master Xian is a very cold person. You said it as well." Shui Xian wasn''t sure what she was getting at or why she even brought it up but he didn''t disturb her. "Why do you feel so warm then?"

    Shui Xian''s eyes widened as he kept staring back at her nk eyes innocently questioning him as if she was genuinely curious to know the answer.

 Chapter 37 - Value Of Words

    It had been a long while since someone actually told Shui Xian that he was warm. Because he actually didn''t think he was a warm person. He had been keeping such a cold aura around him that it scared people away. Yet, this girl was telling him, he felt warm.

    While Shui Xian was busy staring into her ck gems like eyes, Raelle raised her arms and wrapped them around his frame catching him off-guard. Now, her whole body was very close to his own.

    "See? I was right," she said calmly. "You are warm."

    They say hugs are very powerful. When she hugged him, he actually thought it was right. He didn''t even know he needed this hug. And he didn''t even know for how long he had been yearning for this one hug. He just knew that this hug brought warmth to his chilled heart.

    "Wife..." he called out in a small voice. "Who are you?"

    "Huh?" Raelle pulled away and stared into his eyed. "What do you mean who I am? Did you forget your wife so soon? We just got married!"

    He shook his head and asked, "I mean, what are you?"

    "People say I''m a robot but this beating heart of mine is proof that I''m a human," she replied.

    Shui Xian continued to look at her face as he said, "A human? Your Yanyan said you''re very special. I might have to agree with her." Raelle didn''t know what he was talking about but she listened intently with no fluctuation in her expressions. "Because you seem to know what I need to hear the most." He ced his hand on her head as he added, "I don''t know if you do it intentionally or unintentionally, but you have said something I really needed to hear."

    From his very first encounter with her to now, she had always said something he needed to hear. It mostly hurt his feelings but what she said had all been true till now. Either her words were like a wake-up call or a reminder that not every decision he made in life was right. Perhaps, that''s why when she said he was warm, he was willing to believe it so easily.

    He held her hand and asked, "What would you like to see first? Our home? Or our room?"

    He was asking her to make a choice but he was definitely asking the wrong person to make a choice. Raelle scratched the tip of her nose and said, "Our room is in our home, right?"

    "Obviously," he replied.

    "Then let''s just take a tour of this home. Eventually, we''ll get to the room as well." She knew if she didn''t look around this house now, she might not be able to do itter on. After all, it''s been six months since she moved here, and yet she hadn''t seen the whole of her own vi. From her bedroom to the dining table and living room, that''s the only route she knew.

    Shui Xian considerately took her around to give her a proper home tour. Along the way, Raelle found some famous artworks hanging on the walls along with sculptures thatid around. The vi was spacious, luxurious, and a little cold. Because it was too big for just two people, it had a cold feeling to it.

    "I''ve been meaning to ask this, doesn''t your father live here with you?"

    "He does," replied Shui Xian. "Why?"

    "Then where is he?" she inquired since she thought that everyone left the restaurant around the same time. If they were already here, howe his father wasn''t here yet?

    Shui Xian took a moment before replying, "He said since it''s our wedding night, he''d like to give us some space. He''d be spending the night at the hotel."

    "He didn''t have to do that just because it''s our wedding night," she retorted. "People might think I kicked my father-inw out as soon as I got the entry to this house. And such daughters-inw arebeled as vicious!"

    Shui Xian made a fist and held it before his mouth as he faked a cough hearing her remark. He couldn''t help it. She really had it all running through that brain of hers. It was really unpredictable. But it was amusing at the same time.

    "Wife, you do know what wedding night means, right?"

    Raelle looked at her carefully, "Hubby, I think you really have some kind of misconception about your wife. I''m Raelle Xiang. I''ve been called a genius all my life. Do you really think I don''t know what wedding night means?"

    Shui Xian shrugged his shoulders saying, "With how you''ve been defining things, I won''t even be surprised if you said that the wedding night is all about us sleeping next to each other on the bed."

    "What else? Do you expect me to sleep on a couch?" she retorted making his eyes widen. "Even if one of us have to take the couch that''d be you. I''m not giving up the bed!"

    Shui Xian blinked at her, "Wife, do you really think that''s all there is to the wedding night?"

    "Of course not," she replied. "Wedding night means to consummate the marriage. Something aboutpleting a rtionship. However, if you ask me, we have alreadypleted our legal work, isn''t that enough proof of a rtionship?"

    He shook his head, "No, people call that paper marriage between two people who wants to gain something from the other through marriage. It''s nothing more than a deal between two people. Do you think we are in a deal?"

    Raelle''s eyes slightly narrowed, "Deal? As much as I value mary gains, I would not like to bring such a thing into my marriage. Yanyan said it''s a lifetime thing. You can''t just walk away after exploiting someone."

    Shui Xian''s heart clenched at her words. See? She loved poking him right where it hurt like hell! She did it again without knowing it. Wasn''t he the one who had to walk away, all broken and tired when that other person was done exploiting him? He was the one who lost everything and he was the one who had to walk away as well.

    Raelle wasn''t done yet though as she continued, "Yanyan said people take a vow when marrying... ''Till death do us apart.'' She said one who can''t keep his words isn''t worth anything. A person who doesn''t even value his own words, that person values nothing."

 Chapter 38 - Tempted

    Shui Xian thought she might reallyck emotions but she didn''tck morals. She was actually a very honest person with high values. Obviously, it had to do with the fact that her grandfather was a military man. But it also showed just how pristine her heart was.

    He couldn''t find a single emotion in her eyes or on her face. To be honest, he only saw nkness in her eyes till now. At first, he really thought it could be simted but now, it seemed that that nkness in her eyes was the real her. She was just as a straight person as she had been a straight-A student in her life. Without any ulterior motives. She was exactly what she seemed to be.

    Raelle''s eyes fell on something and she tapped his shoulder before pointing over, "Let''s y!"

    Shui Xian looked at the billiard table and then looked at her, "You want to y pool right now?"

    Raelle nodded her head, "Why not?" With that, she trudged over and picked up the cue stick to check the tip. She took off her zer and threw it aside at the leather couch. Through the floor-to-ceiling windows, she got the perfect view of the big swimming pool behind the vi. She felt it was not just the perfect view but a perfect time for this.

    Seeing her folding the sleeves of her white shirt, he sighed out. Right, he couldn''t expect her to do what normal people did. Just because normal newlyweds never yed pool on their wedding night didn''t mean they wouldn''t either! After all, that was exactly what they were about to do right now!

    He also took off his coat and threw it beside hers as she used the triangle to ''rack up'' the balls. He also picked the other cue stick and came to stand right behind her as he asked, "So, how are we ying?"

    "Right! We need to have something on a stake here!"

    "That''s not what I meant but whatever!" was what he muttered to himself before saying, "Wife, is it that serious? That we even have to have something on stake right now?"

    "If I won''t be winning something, why y?" she retorted calmly. "If I''m making the effort, I should be getting something in return."

    Shui Xian looked at the billiard table and asked, "Fine. What do you want to win?"

    "If I win, I get the left side of the bed," she replied straightforwardly.

    "What?" was his dumbfounded response.

    "I''m used to sleeping on that side. It isn''t easy to change everything all at once in my daily routine." She borated briefly. "Wait! First tell me, which side you prefer?"

    "Why?"

    "What if you already prefer sleeping on the right side? Wouldn''t I be taking a loss here?"

    He came close to her ear and said, "Since you''re being so serious about it, I''m not telling."

    "Huh?"

    "The bet is set already, tell me how to decide who is gonna ''break''[1]?" He paused and frowned before asking, "Wait. You didn''t tell me what I''ll get if I win?"

    Raelle patted his shoulder, "Hubby, don''t worry. That won''t be happening!"

    Shui Xian''s lips curved up slightly and he nodded, "We''ll see about that."

    After that, they tossed a coin to decide who was gonna take the first shot. The one to win the toss was Shui Xian. "I knew my luck was on my side today."

    "What luck?" said Raelle. "The probability of the coinnding on heads was..."

    She couldn''t continue since Shui Xian held his finger against her lips and said, "Wife, I don''t care about the probability. I believe in my luck sometimes. Let me be happy with that."

    Raelle shrugged her shoulders, "Never mind then." Then she watched carefully as his right hand held the base of the stick. And the narrow end of the stick rested on his left hand. Only now, she noticed that he had long slender fingers with distinct joints. A thought popped up in her mind, ''Why are his hands so pretty?''

    "Coming back to my earlier question, are we ying 8-ball or cutthroat?"

    Raelle answered, "Let''s go with cutthroat pool[2]."

    He nodded and focused as he lined the pool tip up with the cue ball, aimed, and hit it away! Raelle saw him taking the first shot and even getting his first sink with interest.

    When it was her turn, she seriously aimed to sink his balls. When she straightened up, she said, "Something is missing."

    A wine ss suddenly appeared before her face and she looked back at Shui Xian.

    "How did you know what I was thinking?"

    Passing her the wine ss, he picked up his own and took a sipnguidly, "If I say it''s because we are now connected as husband and wife, you''ll call me crazy." Raelle nodded her head without hesitation. "Then let it be. Why does it matter how I knew what you wanted?"

    Although she was still genuinely curious, she didn''t ask again. It didn''t take long for her to sink all of his balls. She looked at him triumphantly, "I told you I''ll win. My calctions never go wrong."

    He smiled at her and said, "What to do though? You''re still taking a loss tonight." Raelle looked at him as she took a sip of the wine in her ss while he stepped closer to her. Seeing the drop of red wine trickling down her pale neck, tempted him. As Eduardo Galeano said, ''We are only mortals until the first kiss and second ss of wine.'' The contrast between the red wine and her jade-like skin made a beautiful picture especially with the moon that hung in the dark sky right behind her.

    He leaned over and his lipsnded on the side of her neck. His hot tongue darted out to trace the trail up to the side of her lips ever so slowly. Taking in a sniff, he added, "I usually sleep on the right side. You really got nothing out of this match."

    Raelle only felt something hot, wet, and soft touching her neck. It brought about a strange sensation that she had never experienced before.

    [1] ''break'' refers to the very first shot.

    [2] "Cutthroat Pool." Each yer chooses a section of the numbers (if 2 yers, 1-7 and 9-15; if 3 yers, 1-5, 6-10, 11-15) on the corrting pool balls. The object of the game is to sink your opponent''s balls and only have yours left on the table. Thest one with a ball (or balls) on the table wins.

 Chapter 39 - Good Night!

    Shui Xian was about to pull away after his endeavor to tease her but he was definitely messing with the wrong girl. Raelle''s hand immediately held the back of his head and whispered, "As I said, I don''t take a loss."

    With that, she pressed her lips against his. She did it exactly like he didst time. Her lips moved against his slowly. Seeing how she was staring back at him, his eyes narrowed slightly. She was really a fast-learner. Holding her waist, he hoisted her up making her sit on the edge of the billiard table.

    His hand tugged in her hair gently, angling her head for better ess to her lips. If Shui Xian was asked at this moment, why he felt the urge to kiss her, he wouldn''t be able to exin it himself. Maybe it was because of how she tempted him with her innocent and yet bold self. Or perhaps it was because of how she kept challenging his feelings. He couldn''t describe this uncontroble urge himself.

    He sucked and nipped at her soft lips making her groan softly. He smiled against her lips before his tongue traced the contours of her lips as if asking for an entrance. Raelle was instinctively about to part her lips when...

    *Ring!*

    The sound of a ringtone seemed louder in this space. She ced her hands on his chest and pulled away. As she took in a deep breath, she said, "That''s my phone." Without waiting for him to say anything, she rolled over the billiard table and jumped down to get to the couch where she had thrown her zer earlier.

    Looking at her like this, Shui Xian shook his head and rubbed his face. He groaned as he wondered, ''What the hell were you thinking?'' But he really had no answer for now. He looked back at her as she answered her phone and thought to himself, ''What are you really? You keep hurting me with your words and yet, I can''t help taking a step closer towards you.''

    While Shui Xian was busy questioning himself. Raelle had taken the Call.

    "This better be good, Cloe."

    Hearing Raelle''s voice, Cloe felt something was wrong. Although one couldn''t predict her boss''s mood from her voice, she still could tell that she must have called at the wrong moment.

    She took a moment to say, "Chief, we decided the new terms of the contract. They''ll send the new contract tomorrow. I''ll bring it to you as soon as I receive it."

    "Tomorrow?" repeated Raelle. "I won''t be signing any contract tomorrow. Let''s do it on Monday."

    Cloe was taken aback, "Chief, don''t you say if something can be done on Saturday, we shouldn''t leave it to Monday? Besides, if we sign the contract tomorrow, the project construction will begin a day earlier."

    "Are you orating me with my own words?" retorted Raelle.

    "I wouldn''t dare," replied Cloe in a soft voice.

    "I said, tomorrow is no good. I''m going on my honeymoon. So, don''t try to contact me unless it''s a life and death matter."

    *Thud!*

    "What happened?" asked Raelle when she heard a muffled thud from Cloe''s side.

    "Nothing," replied Cloe trying to level her tone to hide the fact that it was her who fell down from her chair after listening to the word ''honeymoon.'' It sounded that foreign from her boss'' mouth. She hesitated before asking, "Chief, so you really got married?"

    "Why? Do you think I''d lie to you?"

    "No, no," Cloe shook her head frantically even though Raelle couldn''t see her. "It''s just that it''s hard to believe. I thought you''re against it. Isn''t that why you always made those offers to get rid of your blind dates?"

    Raelle turned her head to look at her husband who had his back to her and said, "I said love is off-limits. I never said anything about marriage." She took a pause and added, "In fact, it doesn''t seem that bad."

    "Huh?" Cloe was dumbfounded by those words.

    "As I said, don''t disturb me for the next two days," after saying her piece, Raelle hung up the phone.

    "Are you done?" She heard Shui Xian''s voice and nodded. "Let''s go then."

    Soon, he brought her to their bedroom on the third floor. As he opened the room, he told her, "This is my room. But now it''s ours."

    Raelle followed him inside and looked around. The room was dominated by white and grey shades. Only the King-sized bed had ck bedding. But even that had silver details.

    Seeing her looking at the room so intently, he said, "If you want to change something just let the Head Steward know." Raelle looked at him and he went on, "I mean, since you''re also gonna use the room, you''d like to add your colors into it. Right? I don''t mind it."

    Raelle smiled at him, "Hubby, I suddenly feel like our colors match well together." While Shui Xian raised his brows in question, she added, "You''ll get what I mean." What she didn''t exin to him was that her own room was also dominated by these colors. In her own big bedroom, the interior was just as minimalistic as his. That''s why she said their colors matched well together.

    She had instantly taken a liking to this room that didn''t make her feel like she was at a new ce. It just gave off the same feeling as her own room.

    After that, he opened another door to lead her to the walk-in closet. It was not surprising to him that while he was gone, her clothes had already been set within his closet. From within the walk-in closet, he opened another door that led to the study. And from the study, one could get to the lounge on this floor.

    "This whole floor is my personal space so it''s been designed ording to my preferences. As you can see, it''s like a square. If you start from the lounge, you''ll eventually reach back here."

    "Interesting..." was all she said before they moved back to the bedroom.

    While Raelle familiarized herself with where her clothes were, Shui Xian went to take a shower. When he came out, he was d infortable pajamas. Following him, Raelle also took her sleepwear and entered the bathroom.

    By the time she came out, he was already sitting on his side of the bed. Just as he had told her, he really preferred the right side of the bed. He was looking through his emails when she came out in her pink silk pajama set.

    As she sat down on the bed, she asked, "When are we leaving in the morning? And where are we going?"

    "We''ll be leaving at 6. And where we are going... That''s a surprise," he answered while his eyes still skimmed through the content of the email.

    "Surprise?" she repeated. "I don''t like surprises though." Saying that sheid down and closed her eyes. "Anyway, have a good night, Hubby!"

    Shui Xian looked at her face as she had her eyes closed and softly replied, "Good night to you too, Wife."

 Chapter 40 - Surprise Gift

    Shui Xian was actually surprised to see that his wife went to sleep as soon as she closed her eyes. And throughout the night, she didn''t even move. She didn''t even change sides. She was sleeping in the same straight posture until 4:30 am when her eyes naturally opened up. Instead ofzing around on the bed, she sat up and looked at the time.

    "Hubby, Good morning!" Those were the very first words that came out of her mouth. Noticing something, she questioned, "You didn''t sleep?"

    "Good morning, Wife!" Shui Xian replied before shaking his head in response to her question.

    "Why? Is it because you''re not used to my presence? You must be feeling ufortable?"

    Shui Xian sighed at her own assumptions and asked, "And if I''m really ufortable, what would you do?"

    "Why should I do something? It''s your problem, solve it yourself," was her response.

    Shui Xian pressed his lips together and nodded in agreement, "This honeymoon trip is impromptu. I was finishing up the work so that no one disturbs me over the weekend."

    "What about sleep?" she questioned. "Don''t you know, sleep is a vitalponent for every person''s overall health and well-being?"

    Shui Xian touched his forehead before saying, "I''ll catch some sleep on the ne."

    Raelle nodded her head and got up to get ready. Her outfit for the day was already prepared for her. She was wearing neutral pants with a white woolen top. It had a very refined look when she let her hair loose in slightly messy curls. Taking her white woolen coat, she looked at Shui Xian who was also getting ready now.

    He noticed how she kept looking into space as if in deep thought.

    "What''s wrong?" he questioned.

    "I''m thinking," she replied.

    "About?"

    "Whether to take myptop or not," she responded.

    "Take it," he said.

    "But if I took it, I might spend all my time working on it."

    "Then don''t bring it."

    "What if something urgentes up?"

    Shui Xian took a deep breath, "Just do whatever you want."

    Eventually, she decided to just take it. Someone must have packed it with her stuff anyway. What was the point of taking it out? It''d be a hassle!

    "I''ll wait for you downstairs," she said in a small voice before leaving the room.

    "Okay," he replied watching her receding back.

    Raelle hurried down and seeing a maid, she called out, "Can you get me a cup of milk tea?" Right at this moment, another maid came to her side with a tray which had her milk tea. Raelle took it from her with a smile. Obviously, her Yanyan must have given some instructions. How else would her milk tea be avable at this time?

    It was 5:30 now and Raelle was sitting in the lounge, sipping on her milk tea when she heard someone calling her, "Young Miss!" Raelle looked over and saw a familiar face. She was the maid from her own vi, what was she doing here right now? She soon got the answer she needed, when the maid put a rectangr gift box before her on the round coffee table saying, "This package came for you justst night. Madam said to deliver it to you."

    Raelle nodded her head and waved her off. She ced her cup down and picked up the box. She pulled the ribbon off and opened the lid of the box. There was some kind of clothing inside. She picked it up with her index finger and her thumb and looked at the white silk clothing that had quite somece on it.

    There was a card inside that read, ''Hope you like the wedding gift! Enjoy!''

    She continued to stare at it for a long moment before she dropped it aside carelessly and picked up her phone to make a call. The bell rang for quite a while before she heard a groggy voice from the other end, "Just because you''re an early bird, don''t ruin others'' sleep!"

    "Hyson..." her voice was verynguid. "Thank you for the wedding gift! How thoughtful of you!"

    Hyson immediately sat up and covered his mouth with his hands before asking, "Do you like it?"

    "Very much," she replied calmly. "Just wondering if it''s your own choice?"

    "Hey! Am I a pervert? Why would I buy this myself?" he retorted. "I asked my Mum to order it online just for you! The moment I learned you''re getting married, I had it nned. See how thoughtful I am?"

    "Another question," she went on. "What am I supposed to do with it?"

    Hyson facepalmed himself. He should have sent a bloody manual with that lingerie! How else she''ll know what to do with it?

    "Elle, what did you dost night on your first night with your husband?"

    "I yed pool then I went to sleep," she replied honestly.

    "You did what?!" Hyson''s voice got louder. It was so loud that Shui Xian who had juste down could hear it by just standing behind her. "I have all the more reason to pity your husband!" He took a deep breath to stop himself from cursing her before he asked, "Elle, you guys didn''t do anything else?"

    "What else?" she repeated. "Oh, we kissed."

    "Nothing more?" Hyson''s sleep waspletely gone just listening to her miserable first night! "You guys have already kissed. There is nothing new in that."

    "Why not? It was new to me," she replied.

    "What was new?" he questioned eagerly waiting for her reply. Even Shui Xian''s ears perked up to hear her reply.

    "It was wine vor this time!"

    It was so silent on the other end that one could hear the sound of the breeze. Hyson was really moved to silence by her response. Even Shui Xian pursed his lips, not knowing what to feel in this situation.

    Meanwhile, Raelle really didn''t read the situation as she continued, "I wonder if it was because of the strong wine or something else but it was kinda intoxicating."

    "Go to hell!" was Hyson''s response. "You really ruined my whole day with this stupid talk! Hang up already!"

    Raelle looked at her phone''s screen and said, "But I called to ask about how you''re doing!"

    Shui Xian cleared his throat to get her attention and make his presence known. When Raelle looked at him, he pointed at the opened box of the lingerie and asked, "What''s that?"

    Raelle shrugged her shoulders, "It''s supposed to be clothing. But what a pity, they had a shortage of fabric in the factory."

    Shui Xian''s lips tugged up involuntarily at her words. "Do you really not know what that is?"

    Raelle put the lid back on the box and answered, "I''m not stupid. I do know what it is. I just don''t see the point behind such things." She looked up at Shui Xian''s face and continued, "Wearing it or not wearing it, is just the same thing. Eventually, everything is supposed toe off, no? So, why waste money on buying such things? Why go through the trouble?"

    Shui Xian bit his lip to hold himself back fromughing as he said, "Be mindful of your words. You''re challenging the lingerie business. What if they go out of business?"

    Raelle stood up and patted his shoulder, "Hubby, trust me, they won''t! Businessmen know how to keep their business running."

    "Oh, you seem to have quite some faith in such businessmen, Wife."

    "I have to. I can''t discredit business people like me."

    "So, all along you''re talking about yourself?

    Raelle shed him a smile but didn''t answer his question.

 Chapter 41 - Too Young

    The drive to the airport was silent. Neither Raelle said a word, nor Shui Xian. Each of them sat infortable silence. Neither of them was scared of silence anyway. But the silence between them was even moreforting than usual. Reaching the airport, instead of going to the departure area for the passengers, they took a different path which led them to the private ne that was waiting for them.

    They both sat beside each other in the luxurious private ne as Raelle remarked, "Talk about traveling with one of the wealthiest men. Even the ne follows their schedule. Tch."

    Shui Xian gave her a look, "Wife, are you forgetting that you happen to be one of those wealthiest men?"

    "I''m a woman!" she replied. "I take pride in my gender. So, don''t mix it up again."

    "Fine. I mean the wealthiest people in the world."

    Raelle shrugged her shoulder, "Hubby, it''s not like I''m the one who owns a luxurious private ne. It''s you! Rich man!"

    Shui Xian frowned, "You don''t have a private ne of yours? Why is it so hard to believe?"

    "I recently acquired an international airline," she replied. "Do I need to buy a ne?"

    Shui Xian shook his head and didn''t want to continue this conversation. Not ever again!

    Raelle smiled at his reaction and went on, "But my grandfather has his own private ne. It''s convenient for him to travel the world."

    Shui Xian nodded in reply.

    "By the way, why do so many people follow you around?" he asked the question he had on his mind since he saw the entourage that was following them even on this honeymoon. Although he also had two of his capable men around, her entourage was quite grand. It seemed like there were more people than what he sawst time at ''Moonlight.''

    Raelle paused for a second before answering, "To protect me." Shui Xian raised his brows at her and she borated, "I''ve been kidnapped three times in my life. So, my grandfather is a little overprotective of me now." Since she didn''t know how to lie, she''d not conceal anything from him as long as he asked it. Besides, the news of her kidnappings had been on the headlines back then. Anyone would be able to dig that up if they tried.

    Shui Xian''s eyes widened as he stared at her unchanging expressions. He didn''t know how to react to this. He was truly at a loss.

    Seeing him like that, Raelle smiled at him, "Hubby, don''t look so shocked. Isn''t it very normal for us rich kids to go through such things?" Shui Xian''s lips parted but nothing came out. "You should stop looking at me like that. I usually don''t care when people stare at me but your eyes are saying something I''m not able to interpret. So, it''s making me feel strange."

    Shui Xian held her hand and intertwined their fingers as he said, "I''m wondering whether you''re really that casual about it all or you''ve gotten good at faking it."

    "Except for my smile, I''ve never faked anything in my life," she replied proudly. "If it wasn''t to reassure my grandfather, I would never have learned to fake this smile either. It''s too troublesome."

    Shui Xian ced his head on her shoulder as he said, "It suddenly feels like you''re right when you said youck emotions. Except for nkness and curiosity, I can''t see anything in your eyes."

    "That''s what my Yanyan said," she told him. "She said, I''m always curious about something. Curious to learn everything. But she also said, that''s what makes me special. Very special." She took a pause as she leaned her own head against his and went on, "However, she is the only one who thinks that way, the rest of the people find me weird."

    Shui Xian tightened his grip on her hand as he said, "I agree with your Yanyan. You''re very special." He chuckled softly as he added, "You''re already pretty special for your age. I actually thought about how will this marriage work since we have five years age difference. We are practically from a different generation!"

    "What does my age have to do with our marriage?" she questioned.

    Shui Xian closed his eyes to sleep as he answered, "You''re too young for marriage."

    Raelle blinked repeatedly in silence before saying, "How can my age define whether my marriage will work out or not? Do you me your young age for failing at your first marriage?" Shui Xian''s eyes opened and he sat straight to look at her face. "How can you me age? No one is too young for responsibility or a rtionship. It''s whether you want to keep that rtionship or not."

    Seeing him silently looking at her, she rewind what she said in her head. "If I said something wrong, I''m sorry. But I don''t like it when people put the pot of their own failure on things like age, feelings, and life. If it''s your failure, own it. Why look for excuses to justify it?" She wasn''t done as she continued, "The only thing that can define your failure or sess is how much effort you''ve put into something. Either it''s business or a rtionship, it''s the effort that counts."

    ~~~~

    ''How did we end up here?'' he questioned her with the divorce papers in his hand as he looked at the building before him.

    ''We were too young,'' she had answered.

    ''If you give me another chance, I''ll try harder,'' he had almost pleaded.

    She had scoffed at his words, ''What''s your effort gonna do? It won''t change anything.''

    ~~~~

    As that distant scene shed past his eyes, he closed his eyes and when he opened his eyes again, the way he looked at Raelle changed.

    "However, the effort is something that goes both ways," she was still talking. "Both Party A and Party B should be putting in their effort to make it work. For instance, if I''m the only one doing my best, and my employees aren''t, or vice versa, the end result will be disastrous. Party A should have faith in Party B and do their own best. While Party B needs to do the same as well."

    On instinct, he cupped her face and kissed her. Her soft lips were warm against his and slightly sweet as well. She bitterly scratched on his wounds and yet she tasted sweet to him. What irony!

    Raelle was slightly taken aback as she went still for half a second but soon responded to his fervor kiss. When his lips parted away from hers, he looked into her eyes and said, "Wife, having a conversation with you is tiring." Raelle nodded. She had heard that way too many times in her life already. His thumb traced her lower lips as he added, "But I feel like if I kept talking to you, everything will be alright."

 Chapter 42 - Enjoy The Moment

    Loretta Young wrote, ''Love isn''t something you find. Love is something that finds you.''

    Even in their wildest dreams, they both wouldn''t have thought that love would actually find its way to them in this way. Because neither of them was looking for love, love had to do some effort to look for them instead. And it did find them. Now, the trouble was, how the love would crawl within their hearts when they both have closed the doors so tightly?

    People said Raelle Xiang was a hateful character. She was too arrogant, thought of herself above others. But Shui Xian didn''t agree with that. Especially after interacting with her. But he also understood why people had so many opinions about her even when they didn''t know her personally.

    It was obviously because of her honest nature. People who had built their lives on lies would obviously find an honest person like her quite ufortable. She stood out too much in the crowd. Even when she stabbed at his broken heart with her bitter truth, she made him realize every single time that he had also been hiding behind lies all this while.

    He also thought he had moved on. He also thought it didn''t hurt anymore. But with her arrival, he was reminded of all the pain and heartache. However, the way she worded the truth made him feel like he had been looking at life from a wrong angle all this time. She was wise for her age. And even though she was honest, she wasn''t naive.

    Her naivety was definitely only limited to the emotions she never got to experience in her life. As for why it was like that... He was suddenly very curious to find out.

    The rest of the flight was silent because Raelle had taken out her book to read while Xian had closed his eyes to take a nap with his head still on her shoulder. And Raelle had even lent him her shoulder without any objection. After three hours of flight, theynded.

    As they went out of the ne, their luggage was already being deposited in the car''s trunk that was waiting for them.

    "Master Xian," greeted the driver who had been waiting for him here, politely.

    While Shui Xian was talking to the driver, Raelle''s eyes wandered around as she tried to figure out where they were. She wrapped her woolen coat tightly around her since it was super cold around here.

    "Shall we?"

    Raelle looked back and saw how it was Shui Xian who had opened the door for her while the driver had already taken his seat. She nodded and slid inside while he followed behind.

    "We are in a different province?" she questioned.

    "Yes, we are," that was the only reply he gave her.

    As the driver maneuvered the car out of the airport, she had opened her book again. Shui Xian pinched the bridge of his nose and when he opened his eyes, he looked at her reading a book. He continued to look at the side of her face while all her concentration was on her book. Just as the car moved on to the road, he closed her book and said, "Look outside. You can''t find everything in books."

    Raelle turned her eyes and looked out at the scenery. She was just as much a fan of beautiful things as any other person. Seeing the splendid view outside the window, her eyes didn''t move. The credit went to the snow-capped mountains and the winter fairytale outside the window. It was a captivating sight.

    He moved closer to her ear and said, "I told you, not everything can be found in books." She turned her eyes to him as he went on, "Somethings, we have to experience for ourselves."

    "Why do I feel like you''re actually not talking about the view?" she questioned doubtfully.

    Shui Xian shrugged his shoulders, "Then you should find out what I''m actually talking about. My wife is very smart. I believe it won''t be hard for you."

    Raelle didn''t reply to him. They silently spent around 45 minutes to reach their destination. With the pillow of snow in the background, the cabin before her eyes looked especially gorgeous. It looked like a secret hideaway tucked in the nket of snow. It was so silent around here on the mountain as if there was no one around. But then again, this must be the beauty of snow.

    As Shui Xian led her inside the cabin, she found it quite cozy. The heat from the firece made the air feel warm in the cabin. Then she took a whole tour around the ce. While Raelle was looking at the white wondend outside the window of their bedroom, he called out, "Let''s eat something. We didn''t have anything for breakfast."

    Raelle checked the time, it was about 10 o''clock in the morning, it wasn''t thatte for some people but it was reallyte for her. However, even if it waste, she''d still eat it. Skipping a meal had never been her thing.

    Raelle sat down with him to eat and he began, "You can rest for a couple of hours after eating. I''ll take you out after lunch to look around."

    "This ce," she started. "You didn''t rent it, right?" Shui Xian''s brows arched up as she went on, "There is a family photo in the bedroom on the side table. The kid in that photo has the same eyes as you."

    Shui Xian looked into her ck eyes. In just a few minutes, she even had to notice that detail? Maybe she was right, she was really perceptive of her surroundings.

    He nodded his head, "This ce is like a family heirloom." Seeing how she was still waiting for an exnation, he went on, "My grandfather designed this ce. It was his gift to my dad on his eighteenth birthday. Later on, it became my parents'' hiding spot. They''d always find time toe here for a winter getaway."

    She nodded her head, "It''s understandable. This ce is indeed ravishing." She took a bite of the eggs and asked, "So, what are we doingter?"

    "What''s the hurry? I''ll tell you," he replied.

    "But I''m in the hurry to know," she retorted.

    "Enjoy the moment once in a while," he said to her and continued to eat.

 Chapter 43 - Cushion

    "Why are we here?" asked Raelle as she looked at the scene before her.

    Right after lunch, he did bring her out. On a ten minute walk from the cabin, was a ski resort. And Shui Xian had brought her to the ski slope. It wasn''t crowded but there were quite a few skiers around. Some looked like sports enthusiasts and some were just here to enjoy.

    Shui Xian fixed the knit cap she was wearing before he held her hand and made her sit on the bench saying, "We are here to find freedom." Raelle looked at his face as he went on, "Have you ever thought of having wings?" Raelle blinked at him. "A pair of skis are like a pair of wings. Trust me, it makes you feel like taking a flight to freedom."

    An attendant passed them their ski boots. Shui Xian first helped her wear her ski boots. Seeing him crouching down before her to put on her boots, she said, "You don''t have to do it though. I don''t even know how to ski."

    Shui Xian silently put on her boots before he put gloves on her hands and replied, "I know you can''t ski. Isn''t that why I chose this trail which is meant for kids?"

    "How do you know?" she questioned. She definitely didn''t tell him that meant... "Did my grandfather say anything?"

    He sat beside her to put his own ski boots on as he nodded.

    "What did he say?"

    Shui Xian thought back to the words Grandfather Xiang had said to him yesterday over dinner.

    ''I heard there is a ski resort near your cabin.'' Shui Xian had nodded in reply. ''Don''t forget to take my granddaughter there.''

    ''I already was going to,'' replied Shui Xian.

    ''But you''ll have to teach her how to ski, first.'' Shui Xian was surprised to hear that. ''She has never tried it before.'' Grandfather Xiang had sighed out, ''Mostly because of me. Whenever I took her out to the snowfields, she''d stick with me. She says that ying with snow is a waste of time. But I know that since I can''t y with her, she doesn''t want to do it either.'' Grandfather Xiang has smiled at him as he added, ''So, make sure to show that bookworm that snow has its own kind of warmth. But she can''t find it without stepping into the snow herself.''

    As Grandfather Xiang''s words rang in his mind, he said to Raelle, "He said, his granddaughter doesn''t know how to dance on the wind of snow. So, I have to teach her that."

    He passed her the skis and poles as they got out on the snow. Indeed, he had brought her to the kids'' trail. It was not very long and was also very easy. In fact, there were other beginners like her around here. They seemed to be taking lessons from professionals that the resort had hired.

    However, for her, Shui Xian was doing everything on his own. He told her all the basics that she needed to know and was satisfied with a student like her who could remember everything after listening only once. She was a fast learner. "Now, watch me carefully." He said while she nodded.

    As she watched his movements carefully, she ran a simtion through her mind before following him down the small hill. Shui Xian had juste down when he looked up and saw her alreadying down. While he stood there watching her, she drew near and near but her speed was not slowing down.

    "Slow down!" he shouted.

    He didn''t know whether she didn''t listen or she didn''t care about his words but her speed still didn''t slow down. She was moving straight towards him. And instead of moving away, he just stood there with an anxious look.

    *Thump*

    She crashed right into him and they both rolled over on the snow together. With his hands wrapped around her waist, she wasying on his body.

    "Did you forget how to slow down?" his voice was heard near her ear. "I told you to just make a wedge with your skis and it''ll slow down."

    "I remembered," she answered.

    "Then why didn''t you stop?"

    Raelle ced her hands right beside his head and pushed her body up. Looking at his face, she answered honestly, "I was just testing something."

    "Testing?" he questioned as he saw her getting up to pat the snow off her sides.

    She nodded her head, "Yes. I was testing whether you''d be my cushion or not."

    "Cushion?" He repeated strangely. "From the upgrade of Husband, did I just got degraded to cushion?"

    Raelle smiled at him as she shook her head, "No. The upgrade is still there." She picked up the poles and said, "Whether I call you a husband or a cushion, isn''t it the same thing?"

    "What?" he was bewildered.

    "Both are supposed to protect me," she went on calmly. "Isn''t that right?" Shui Xian''s expressions froze as he looked at her intently without blinking, "So, I was testing whether you''re the husband who would rather fall himself just to save me or not." She took a pause and added, "You didn''t get hurt, did you? I think I''ve really gotten used to test people in one way or another. Hope you don''t mind it."

    Shui Xian was quiet for a while before he asked in return, "Are you hurt?" Raelle shook her head and he heaved a sigh of relief. "Then that''s fine. We didn''t crash that hard anyway. Since we both didn''t get hurt, it doesn''t matter."

    "Then..." she extended her glove d hand towards him. "Shall we do it again? I just got the hang of it."

    "Only if you won''t pull another trick like this," he retorted.

    "I won''t," she said with her eyes twinkling.

    Instead of taking her hand, Shui Xian rubbed her cheeks with the back of his hands and said, "Don''t fall again."

    Raelle replied to him, "I''m not scared of falling. Because I already know how to get up again."

    Shui Xian smiled at her and held her hand saying, "That''s good. But if you get stuck, just call me out. I''ll offer you my hand and pull you back up."

    Once again, Raelle had a feeling that he wasn''t talking about falling on the snow. He meant something else. But that something was not clear to her yet.

 Chapter 44 - Favorites?

    Raelle might not have been much involved in sports, she was still a ck belt in Jiu Jutsu. That''s why her body''s reflexes were excellent and adding on her fast learning ability, skiing didn''t turn out to be as difficult for her. Although she did fall a couple of times, she didn''t let that get to her.

    With her assiduousness, she managed to not only cover the beginner''s trail but also aced the intermediate trail. She was about to move to the next when Shui Xian had to hold her back saying, "Let''s leave something for next time."

    Raelle didn''t argue with that especially since the sun was already setting. Taking off their gear, he took her to the coffee shop in the resort. Taking a seat near the window, Shui Xian went to ce their order.

    Raelle looked out the window as she ced her sped hands over the table. Though thend outside was a shiver of white, sunset came in with those warm orange hues. As the sun peeked from behind the white peak, it felt as if the snow was in the warm embrace of the sun. It looked surreal.

    Hearing a sound, Raelle turned her eyes and saw that Shui Xian had ced a ceramic mug before her that had swirls of white milk foam on top, spotted with cocoa powder. A chocty aroma assaulted her senses making her mind wander.

    "You really didn''t get hurt?" he asked looking at her with concern.

    Raelle had her hands wrapped around the ceramic mug, letting the warmth flow through her fingers, banishing the wintry chill. She shook her head, "Why are you making me repeat it? I''m really okay."

    Shui Xian took a sip of his hot chocte as said, "But you fell so many times. And yet you insisted on continuing."

    "I don''t have a habit of giving up," she retorted with her eyes stuck to his lips that had a cream mustache. She stretched her arm and wiped the cream mustache with the pad of her thumb. Shui Xian went stiff for a moment and heard her say, "I just saw that girl doing it."

    As she was about to take back her hand, he held her wrist and put her thumb into his mouth. She continued to blink at him with her unchanging expression as he licked her thumb clean and said, "I''m sure this was the next part."

    Raelle asked curiously, "How did you know?"

    He pursed his lips to hold back hisughter and said, "Because I''ve seen it way too many times."

    The most simple things in life are usually the most beautiful ones like this one cup filled with dark, rich hot chocte that coated her tongue thickly before flowing down her throat. After that tiring activity, this moment was definitely meant to be relished.

    "I like winter. It''s my favorite time of the year," said Shui Xian in an attempt to fill the silence between them. "Especially, the snow. It looks magical. Don''t you think?" He looked at Raelle but she continued to look at him silently. "It''s as if the snowkes gently kiss the surface of the earth. So, what''s your favorite season?"

    "I like all seasons," she replied sincerely. "I don''t pick favorites. What if the rest mind?"

    "The rest?"

    "The rest of seasons," she borated. "That''s why I don''t pick just one."

    "Why did I ask that question?" He muttered to himself after having a moment of silence.

    Raelle responded with, "How would I know that?"

    "What about your favorite color?"

    "I like it all."

    "What about your favorite food? Any preferences?"

    "I can eat everything. No preferences."

    He was just trying to figure out her taste but apparently, she didn''t know it herself yet. He really couldn''t understand how someone didn''t have a favorite food. Don''t we all have that onefort food we can eat whenever and wherever without getting tired?

    Shui Xian leaned back into his chair with a deep breath and asked, "Since you love to read, you must have a favorite book."

    Raelle still shook her head, "I told you already, I have never read the same book twice. As for why I don''t have favorites..." She thought about it before trying to say it in simple words, "Every book I read has taught me something. Something new. So, each book has its own special meaning to me. How can I just pick one? Wouldn''t it be unfair?" Shui Xian was staring at her silently as she went on, "Hope you can see now why I said, I''m peculiar."

    Shui Xian listened intently and knew he wouldn''t be able to find faults with what she said. He bit his bottom lip while his eyes wandered out the window. "Won''t you ask me about my favorite color or food?"

    "Your favorite color is white," said Raelle taking him by surprise. "And you like to eat sweet things."

    Shui Xian''s lips parted slightly but for a moment nothing came out except for the breath that he could see. "How do you know?"

    "Your personal space is filled with white," she answered. "Either it''s your bedroom or study. Everything is white." Shui Xian nodded his head as she went on, "As for how I know that you like sweet things... Don''t you make it too obvious?"

    "I did?" He questioned. "When did I?"

    "You ordered yourself Tiramisu coffee when west time met at a caf¨¦," she told him. "You''re having hot chocte with extra cream and syrup. You keep choctes in your side drawer."

    "When did you see that?"

    "When you''re taking out your watch," she replied.

    "I don''t even know what to say right now," he said in a low voice as he ran a hand over his face.

    "Then don''t," was her response.

    Shui Xian rubbed the nape of his neck and nodded his head, "Yes, I shouldn''t say anything for now."

    "Xian?"

    Raelle heard a feminine voice calling out her husband''s name with a bit of uncertainty from right behind her. But she didn''t turn, instead, her eyes were on Shui Xian''s expressions that seemed to have hardened.

 Chapter 45 - Old Acquaintance

    The woman came closer and stood beside Shui Xian as she continued excitedly, "Oh my God! It''s really you!" Since her attention was solely on Shui Xian, she had still to notice Raelle''s presence. But Raelle wasn''t bothered by it at all. "As soon as I walked through the entrance, I knew it had to be you. It''s been so long." Seeing how quiet he was, she asked, "You don''t remember me?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head and looked at her, "I do. Xu Jinglei. Of course, I remember you."

    The woman almost jumped in excitement, "I can''t believe you really remember me. I mean I know we were in the same ss back in high school. But... It really surprised me that you remember me."

    "It''s been years but even you still remember me," replied Shui Xian in neither a soft nor a harsh tone. He didn''t seem like he was talking to an old friend but rather a stranger. At least, it waspletely different from the way he spoke to Raelle.

    "That''s because I had a crush on you back then," Xu Jinglei told bluntly. "But there is nothing new about that. Almost all the girls in our grade had a crush on you. So, we know you well. But you remember me is really a shock." She sighed out heavily, "After all, you always had eyes for only one. The rest of us didn''t even exist for you."

    Shui Xian knew this conversation woulde up since the moment he recognized her. Who didn''t know about his love story back in high school? Not just his grade, they had been famous all over the school. And even today, people loved to bring it up. That''s why he didn''t want to meet any of his old acquaintances.

    "I heard you got married to Bebe right after college. We all knew it was gonna happen sooner rather thanter. But where is she? Aren''t you here with her?" Only now Xu Jinglei''s eyes shifted from Shui Xian''s face as she looked around but as she noticed Raelle sitting opposite him, she frowned in confusion. "This is...?"

    "She''s Elle," began Shui Xian without any hesitation. "My wife."

    "Huh?" Xu Jinglei was bewildered. She was at a loss for words for a while. She continued to look at Shui Xian and Raelle before she shook her head and gave Raelle a nod saying, "Sorry, I didn''t see you earlier."

    "It''s alright," replied Raelle calmly.

    After she moved from her initial shock, Xu Jinglei turned back to Shui Xian and said, "Well, congrattions! You know my family emigrated to Country C right after high school. So, I''m really behind the news." She took a pause and added, "Oh, I also came here to spend holidays with my husband. We are staying at the same resort. So, how about we gather for dinner together?"

    "We wouldn''t like to intrude," said Shui Xian and before she could open her mouth to say something, he went on, "We already have ns for tonight."

    "Oh, okay. Then I won''t be disturbing you guys any longer. See you around!"

    When she finally left, Shui Xian turned his attention to Raelle, "She is a friend from high school. We weren''t that close but we had been ssmates for 3 years. She was a little too excited to see me after such a long time. You must know this kind of friendship between ssmates."

    "I don''t," replied Raelle. "Because I''ve never been to a normal school. Everywhere I went, everyone had been older than me. And because I was always jumping grades, I never had time for things like friendship. No matter what kind."

    "Oh," was the only thing that came out of his mouth for a while. "Then it must have been difficult to make friends."

    "Don''t know," she retorted. "Because I never tried making friends. Too troublesome!"

    "You don''t have any friends?" he questioned.

    She shook her head before nodding her head almost immediately, "Actually, there is one."

    "There is?"

    She blinked her eyes, "Yeah, there is one! I call him sticky bubblegum but he says we are best friends."

    "Sticky bubblegum?" he repeated.

    "He is like one," she replied. "He is very persistent. Or calling him foolishly stubborn would be better. Anyway, he is the only one who managed to bear with the peculiar me without getting tired."

    Maybe she didn''t know it herself but when she talked about this friend of hers, her demeanor wasn''t as indifferent as it usually had been. Shui Xian found this peculiarity quite amusing. It showed that there were more people she valued than just her grandfather and Yanyan.

    "Is it the same friend who sent you the gift in the morning?" he inquired curiously.

    "Who else would dare send me a gift like that?" she retorted. "It''s only him trying to be funny."

    "I''m suddenly looking forward to meeting this friend," said Shui Xian being very honest. He indeed was very curious to know about her only friend. There had to be something special about this friend to manage to stay beside her.

    "I hope you don''t meet him though."

    "Huh? Why not?"

    "He says the only plus points I have are that I''m gorgeous and I''m also rich. Apart from that, I have nothing to brag about. And he pities my husband for getting stuck with a wooden log like me."

    Shui Xian chuckled at that, "Now, I know. He is definitely your best friend!"

    Raelle shrugged her shoulders and stood up saying, "I''m going to thedies'' room. I''ll be right back."

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "Okay."

    Raelle found her way to thedies'' room and looked at her reflection in the mirror. Her cheeks looked ruddy because of ying in the snow. She washed her hands and sshed some hot water on her face as well. As she was taking the paper towel to wipe her hands, the door of thedies'' room opened and the woman from earlier entered.

    Seeing Raelle, a bit of surprise appeared on her face and she said, "Oh, you''re Master Xian''s wife."

    Raelle gave a nod of acknowledgment but said nothing.

    "Sorry about earlier," Xu Jinglei spoke again.

    "For what?" questioned Raelle indifferently.

    "For..." Xu Jinglei was lost for words not knowing how to say them.

 Chapter 46 - Believe In Blind Love

    "Actually, for as long as I have known Xian, he''d been with Bebe. And I did hear about his marriage with Bebe. That''s why I kept on talking earlier." Xu Jinglei looked quite guilty.

    "People get divorced as well," Raelle felt the need to tell her that.

    Xu Jinglei nodded her head, "Indeed, people do get divorced. But you see, I never thought Xian and Bebe would get separated. They made me believe in love blindly. They were always together. They were literally the couple goals for everyone. Who wasn''t envious of their rtionship? Plenty tried to even break their rtionship but none worked. I really thought no one coulde between them." She was taken aback to see that Raelle''s expressions didn''t change from start to end. It was as if they were discussing somethingpletely unrted to her.

    And in fact, Raelle did believe this conversation waspletely unrted to her. What kind of rtionship Shui Xian had with his ex-wife had nothing to do with her. "People really assume that there is always a third person to destroy a marriage but we forget sometimes that third person is actually living within us. When the adrenaline of love wears off, people can finally see each other for real. And let''s face it, not all of us like the real us." Xu Jinglei''s face stiffened at her words. "Oh and I guess, it''s about time you should stop believing in love blindly. Sooner you open your eyes, the sooner you''ll be able to see yourself standing at the edge of the cliff."

    As she was about to leave, Xu Jinglei called out, "Doesn''t it affect you?" Raelle paused as she turned her head slightly to her side. "I''m talking about your husband. Doesn''t it affect you that he had been in love with someone so passionately before?"

    Raelle offered her one of her practiced smiles as she said, "Thest thing to bother me is love. No matter whose love it is, it can''t possibly affect my life."

    Xu Jinglei was taken aback by that response. But Raelle didn''t care as she left thedies'' room and came to Shui Xian.

    "Shall we head back?" he asked.

    "Yup," replied Raelle while nodding.

    As they were on their way back to their cabin, Raelle could tell that Shui Xian had been looking at her from time to time. He definitely had something to say but was taking his time thinking it through.

    "If you want to ask anything, go ahead," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian nodded and started, "I saw Xu Jinglei also went towards thedies'' room. I was wondering if she ran into you?"

    "She did," answered Raelle.

    "Did she say anything to you?"

    "About?"

    "About my... Ex-wife?"

    Raelle nodded in reply, "She did say something."

    "Don''t pay attention to her words," said Shui Xian.

    "Why? You didn''t love your ex-wife as much as she''s been gushing about?"

    Shui Xian was quiet for a moment before replying, "No, she''s telling the truth. That''s why I said not to pay attention to her words. It''s all in the past."

    "Pay attention to her words?" repeated Raelle. "I wasn''t nning on doing that. I have better things to do with my time than to think about just a random person''s words whom I met briefly in thedies'' room."

    Shui Xian sighed out, "That''s good then."

    As they reached the cabin, Shui Xian went to take a hot bath while Raelle found her phone to look through. Seeing that she had no missed calls, she continued to blink at the screen unbelievingly. She hurriedly dialed a number.

    "Poppet! How are you?" came the gentle voice of Grandfather Xiang. "Are you enjoying yourself there?" Raelle was silent for a moment and he asked in worry, "Poppet, is everything alright?"

    "You tell me if everything is alright," said Raelle.

    "Yes, everything is fine here. Why?"

    "Usually when I go out for business you and Yanyan call me every hour. You''d call me so much that I''d get tired but today, none of you called me even once!"

    She heard both Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan''sughter.

    "Elle," came Mu Chenyan''s voice. "That''s because you''re on your honeymoon. How can we disturb your time with your husband?"

    "Previously, you''d be worried about me every second and now, you''re worried about disturbing me?"

    "Isn''t it because we aren''t worried about you anymore?" said Grandfather Xiang.

    "Why aren''t you worried now?" she questioned.

    "Because now you''re with your husband. Even if something happens, he''d take care of you," said Mu Chenyan softly and patiently.

    Raelle deadpanned, "That means now I''m his worry." She didn''t even take a second before continuing, "Now I know why you wanted to get me married so soon. You wanted to throw your own worry on someone else''s head. Tch. Tch."

    Grandfather Xiang''s voice turned stern, "What nonsense are you spouting? When did we say you''re a worry for us?"

    "But that''s the truth though," she retorted. "I''m the reason behind all your worries."

    "This girl! Youe back! I''m gonna beat you once I see you!"

    Raelle was pleased after hearing that threat, "Okay. When Ie back, don''t forget to beat me."

    "Elle, how are you?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "I''m just as I always had been," she replied. "How about you?"

    "We''re doing great, don''t worry about us," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Who said, I''m worried about you both?"

    "Poppet, don''t you dare to open your books there. Instead of reading, do some practical learning through experiences as well."

    "Opa, we find the whole world in books," she told him.

    "Poppet, a beautiful world is right before your eyes. Why do you have to look for it in books?"

    Raelle stood before the ss window as she looked at the snow outside and nodded, "It is indeed a beautiful world."

    "Then enjoy your time there. See that beautiful world, feel it, let it sink in your heart."

    "Opa, how can something sink in my heart? It''s a heart, not an ocean!"

    "You!"

    "I''m gonna hang up now. Don''t forget to call me tomorrow, or I''ll call to irritate you even more!" With that, she hung up the phone with a pleased look in her eyes. As she turned around, she found Shui Xian standing behind her giving her a strange look.

 Chapter 47 - Only One That Matters

    "You should take a bath, it''ll help with the sore muscles," said Shui Xian. His expressions were still strange. How would it be not? She even talked to her grandfather in a difficult way. He truly had a newfound respect for her grandfather and Mu Chenyan. They must have had a hard time raising someone like her who had the urge to question almost everything in her own way.

    Raelle put her phone aside and was about to walk past him but stopped as she looked at her husband up and down with an appreciative gaze. Shui Xian''s shoulders were broad. His biceps were bulging with ripples. Even his chest, his abs, and waistline hugging his shirt real tight. Without a doubt, her husband was really handsome.

    "No matter how I look, I really think you''re handsome," she said without thinking, taking him by surprise once again. He should really get used to this mouth of hers. Anything coulde out of it and anytime as well!

    "And how did youe to that conclusion again?" he questioned.

    Raelle tapped her chin and said, "Technically, all the proportions..."

    He ced his finger on her lips and said, "Let''s not delve into technicalities for today."

    "Oh," she responded. "Then how about this? You''re like a piece of art."

    "Huh?"

    "You know the one that is not only beautiful to the eyes but it''s so exquisite that you want to keep looking. Because every time you look, you''d find something unique and intriguing."

    Shui Xian looked into her ck eyes that had a sheen of moist making them look even more sensational under the fluorescent lights. "There is definitely something wrong with what you said but I can''t tell for now what it really is."

    Lifting her hand, tracing the fabric, she touched his rippling muscles and used her strength to press them as he was talking. As if she wasn''t even listening to him at all. So, to confirm whether she was listening or not...

    "Wife, do you want me to take off my shirt to see more? To get a better view?"

    Raelle looked up to stare back into his eyes and nodded, "Why not?" Honestly, an elegant man looked good at any angle. So one should look when one is given the opportunity. Why refuse?

    Shui Xian held her shoulders and turned her around before literally directing her towards the bathroom saying, "Stop wasting time. Don''t you want to have dinner?"

    Raelle went in and stood before the mirror as she said to herself, "It''s not every day I find something beautiful. Why can''t I just look for longer?" She was staring at her reflection in silence and added, "Right, how would you answer? You''re my reflection and if I don''t know the answer how would you know? How troublesome!"

    Outside, Shui Xian gave the instructions to prepare the dinner before he stood where she had been standing earlier. It wasn''t his intention but he only noticed it after standing there for a while lost in his own thoughts.

    Today, when they met Xu Jinglei unexpectedly, he noticed something. Even though he knew her for years, he wasn''t able to act natural around her. And then there was his wife, whom he married just yesterday. Practically, she was still like a stranger to him since they both didn''t know each other that well. Then howe he was able to act naturally before her?

    But Raelle was a stranger that didn''t feel like a stranger. He was able to be himself before this stranger. Maybe it was because she neither questioned his pain nor did she pity him. There was no judgment in her eyes.

    "What are you doing standing there?"

    Shui Xian turned when he heard her voice. She was wearing a loose trouser with a full-sleeved monochrome shirt. She stepped closer to him and looked out the window asking, "Is there something interesting outside?" His eyes turned to her face that was quite near him. "I don''t see anything though. It''s just as it was before I left." She looked up at him, "Then what are you looking at so intently?"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "Nothing. I was just thinking about life."

    She gave him a nk look, "Already?"

    "Huh?"

    She rubbed the nape of her neck as she said, "I know I make people question life but I don''t think I''ve done anything to you yet. Why are you thinking about life already?"

    Shui Xian covered his mouth with the back of his hand as he smiled helplessly at her words. Not even for a second did he think she was kidding. She really had the ability to make someone question life and he had seen it firsthand! But it amused him seeing that she knew she had this ability herself!

    "Master Xian, the dinner is served."

    Shui Xian nodded at the maid and said to Raelle, "Let''s continue this conversation over the food. I believe even you need the energy to keep up with your brain processing speed."

    Raelle agreed as she followed him, "Right. I need to eat so that both my brain and body work in sync." But looking at the dining arrangement she questioned, "But why does it have to be a candlelight dinner?"

    Shui Xian helped her with her chair like a gentleman before sitting across from her. The lights around them went out and only the warm and soft glow of candlelights was left surrounding them. Everything looks particrly pleasant in the soft light of the candles. The current scene also looked quite pleasant.

    "Now I know why that ssmate of yours said earlier that you''re like a moon surrounded by a myriad of stars[1] back in school. You sure are a romantic person."

    Shui Xian feigned a gasp, "And here I thought you wouldn''t figure that out." Raelle''s eyes narrowed ever so slightly and he added, "Maybe they all liked me because I''m handsome. You said it yourself."

    Raelle nodded, "Everyone likes pretty things. So, it''s understandable."

    "You really make it sound like that''s the only quality I have."

    Raelle looked at his face in this warm and soft light of the candles and found it even more pleasing to look at. Her lips raised slightly as she said, "No, I''m sure you have other qualities. I just mean..." she pointed at his face, "That''s the only one that matters to me."

    [1] ''Moon surrounded by a myriad of stars'': surrounded by admirers

 Chapter 48 - The Difficult You

    "Wife..."

    "Hm?"

    "You said you made a lot of people question life. Have you ever questioned life?"

    Raelle took a bite of the steak and chewednguidly before taking a sip of the drink to wash it down. "Life isn''t the question. In fact, life is the real answer." She looked up at him, "The real question is, how are you nning on living this life?"

    Shui Xian''s lips raised and he nodded his head. "But to me, life is actually the question and answer both. Life is the one giving us questions and in life, we have to find the answers. So, I believe every answer is found in just a single moment." Raelle''s eyes showed her confusion and he borated, "We all spend years just to find that one moment that makes this life worthwhile. That exins everything about life."

    "Did you find it then?" she asked in return. "That moment of yours."

    "I thought I did," he answered with a sadness palpable in his eyes. "But I turned out to be wrong. It doesn''t matter though. I''ll still keep looking for that moment."

    Raelle gave him a nod, "I appreciate that attitude. Indeed, no answer is wrong. It''s just that you haven''t found the right answer meant for you." Giving him a thumbs-up, she went on, "Hubby, I''m rooting for you! Make sure to find your moment!"

    "I will," he replied as his eyes squinted at her. "By the way, what are you looking for in life?"

    "Nothing," answered Raelle.

    "You don''t have a dream?"

    "Even the dreams you see at night give you a restless sleep, how can daydreams be any better?" she retorted. "I don''t like troublesome things. Dreams... Chasing those dreams... All are just troublesome to me."

    "Then why are you working so hard?"

    "Because it makes me feel good," she answered. "I''m not trying to achieve anything. I''m just trying to see how far I can go."

    Shui Xian ced his fork and knife down before exhaling a long breath through his mouth. After that, he didn''t speak until she was done eating. When the lights turned on, he noticed how she had pulled her sleeves up but suddenly frowned. Extending his hand, he held her wrist and looked at the spot that seemed to be bruised.

    "You said you didn''t get hurt," his voice was especially low when he said those words.

    Raelle also looked at her wrist and then looked at him, "I didn''t know I was hurt."

    "How can you not know?" he retorted. "Isn''t it hurting?"

    "Hurting?" she repeated uncertainly. "Maybe."

    Shui Xian closed his head and ran his hands through his hair before pulling her up to their bedroom. He made her sit on the edge of the bed and went to bring the medicine box. Looking at that reddish-blue spot on her wrist, Raelle didn''t even blink.

    Shui Xian put some ointment on it while asking, "Did you get hurt anywhere else? And please don''t lie to me this time."

    "Didn''t I say it before that I don''t lie?" she retorted. "I really didn''t know I got hurt. I think this is the only one."

    "You sure you didn''t get hurt anywhere else?" She nodded her head. "I can''t seem to believe it."

    "Do you want me to strip? Then you can check yourself," she suggested.

    "I''ll just believe your words for now," he replied. "You should go to sleep now. You must be tired."

    Raelle didn''t argue with him and silentlyid down under the duvet.

    Shui Xian fixed the duvet for her as he said, "Your Yanyan was right, you really need someone to take care of you."

    Raelle could only agree with that.

    *Ding!*

    She took out her phone from the trouser''s pocket and clicked open the message she received.

    Hyson: Today, I had a really bad day. So, I took out your picture and looked at it for five minutes. Everything became easier.

    While Raelle was thinking about why looking at her picture would solve anything, another message came.

    Hyson: After all, if I can survive being with you for about 15 years now. I think I can do anything.

    Hyson: Nothing can be more difficult than you! So, thank you for being in my life. Thank you for being so difficult. Because it makes life seems so easy now.

    Raelle continued to read these messages again and again. But instead of calling him almost immediately after reading the messages like she usually did, she called out, "Hubby!"

    "What?"

    "Come here," she beckoned him close.

    When he came to stand beside her, she showed him the messages asking, "He is insulting me, right?" She took a pause briefly, "That doesn''t sound like apliment to me."

    Shui Xian curiously read the messages and put his fist before his mouth to cough which was obviously to hide hisughter. "I think it''s both."

    Raelle nodded her head before pressing on the voice record button and saying, "Scram!" before sending it to Hyson. After that, she put her phone on silent and said, "Good night, Hubby! Don''t spend your night working again."

    "Good night," replied Shui Xian and watched her getting back to the same posture she slept inst night. Exactly after a few minutes, he called out, "Wife... Are you awake?" No response. "Elle!" He tried again but still no response. She was indeed sleeping. Just in a matter of minutes, she went to sleep. Now he was really envious of her. Why wasn''t it that easy to sleep for him?

    He went over to his suitcase and took out his binder. Sitting down beside her on the bed, with the opened binder, he continued to look at her face. After a moment, he started writing...

    ~She asks a lot of questions.

    ~She never gives up.

    ~She doesn''t get flustered.

    ~She doesn''t even frown after getting hurt.

    ~And she said, she likes everything. But it can also mean, she doesn''t like anything.

    ~But somehow she finds beautiful things pleasing. You can see it clearly in her eyes when she likes something.

    He turned his eyes to her sleeping face again and whispered, "You''re like a surprise package."

 Chapter 49 - Money To Cash In

    When Hyson had texted her, he was really feeling down but when he received her single voice message that only had one word, "Scram!" he instantly felt better. Their conversations usually ended with either of them telling the other to ''get lost''. It had be a sort of a tradition now.

    That''s what he loved about their friendship. Neither of them had to pretend to be nice to each other. They could just be themselves and the other person wouldn''t mind it at all.

    Tonight again he had opted toe back home. Having a meeting with thepany''s higher-ups on a Saturday was bound to end up in a disaster. It really ruined his day. So, he came to his mother to find hisfort.

    When his mother came to ce the side dishes on the table, she noticed the silly smile on his face as he continued to rey that short voice message from Raelle again and again. She tapped his shoulder to get his attention and asked with hand signs, ''Son, are you so stressed that you''re losing your mind?''

    Hyson smiled at his mother, "I''m fine, Mum." Mother Yue looked at him doubtfully, so he added, "I''m seriously fine."

    Mother Yue still looked a little suspicious but didn''t ask again. She went to bring the bowl of rice and ced it before him.

    Seeing how she just sat there to watch him eat, as usual, he asked, "Mum, aren''t you gonna join me?"

    Hyson looked at her hands as she told him, ''I didn''t know you''reing. So, I already ate.''

    "Oh," responded Hyson before digging into the food.

    After a moment, Mother Yue tapped the spoon on the table to get his attention. ''How is your best friend? Is she happy with her marriage?''

    Hyson rolled his eyes at that question, "Mum, that girl has yet to learn the meaning of happiness. She is just as she had been."

    ''She''s such a nice girl. I hope she finds her happiness with her husband.''

    Hysonughed out, "You must be the only person who thinks she is a nice girl." Seeing how his mother squinted her eyes at him, he went on, "I know I shouldn''t be saying this about her as her only friend but I''m only telling you the truth. She is a nice girl. In fact, she is amazing but not everyone can see that about her." He took a sip of the water and added, "She majored in business but she still can''t invest feelings. And that trait of hers overshadows all the positive traits she has."

    Mother Yue listened to him attentively before she told him, ''It doesn''t matter what others say about her. As long as you think she is amazing. She is your best friend, I believe only your thoughts matter to her rather than what people have to say about her.''

    Hyson smiled at his mother, "Mum, how are you so good?" He shook his head and said, "You know when she didn''t use to smile people used to tell her, ''You look mean.'' Or ''You look mad.'' And now when she put her extra effort into keeping up a smile on her face, people tell her, ''You look sly.''" He had heard people tell her all this way too many times. "But the funny this is her response. She looks at them as if saying ''B*tch, I''m minding my own business.'' Ouch!"

    He looked up at his mother who just hit the spoon on his head. ''No cursing.''

    "That was just an example, I wasn''t cursing," he replied. "But honestly, I''m actually envious of this trait of hers. She is so indifferent to what other''s say about her that it makes me jealous."

    He again fell silent and focused back on his food. Although he knew his friend was weird, he loved that about her. He had plenty of moments where her words would make him go speechless or want tough, both at the same time. Maybe that''s why he usually said all sorts of things to Raelle.

    For instance, once he told her, "Elle, have you ever wondered about what if our life is just a dream? What if we are running after something that isn''t real? And one day we''d wake up to our actual life?"

    And she had responded to him with, "I hope I wake up sooner then. I believe I have a lot of work pending by now. Lots of money to cash in."

    Recalling something, he suddenly chuckled. His mother was surprised yet again. She really thought something was wrong with her son today. He wasughing all by himself.

    "Mum,st year on Valentine''s Day, Raelle asked me why people were kissing around her." Heughed again before continuing, "I just randomly said they are kissing to enjoy the moment and seal it in their memories. I asked her to do it as well. Do you know what she said to me?" Mother Yue raised her brows and he answered, "She said her lipstick is too expensive. She wouldn''t be wasting it on just any random guy."

    Mother Yue also couldn''t help smiling when she heard it. Although she had only met Raelle once in person, she had heard about her a lot. After all, her son loved to talk about the only friend he had. She was actually very thankful to Raelle for being her son''s friend. That girl always knew how to make him happy.

    Mother Yue caressed her son''s face before asking, ''Since you''re trying so hard to smile today, something is definitely bothering you. Won''t you share it with me?''

    Hyson pressed his lips together and shook his head, "I always share everything with you. And although something''s bothering me, it isn''t a big deal."

    Mother Yue nodded, ''If you don''t want to tell me, it''s okay. Just don''t let it stress you too much. No worry is too big.''

    As Hyson understood her hand signs'' meaning, he smiled brightly, "After eating the food you made for me, I already forgot everything."

    Mother Yue rubbed his head before kissing the top of his head.

    "You can go to sleep. I''ll clean up everything after eating."

    His mother nodded and left him there. Hyson watched her receding back and sighed out, "Why is mum able to read my mind so easily? It''s scary."

 Chapter 50 - Letâ€™s Complete This Marriage

    Raelle woke up earlier than Shui Xian. She got her morning milk tea from the maid and sat down near the firece on thefortable chair. She was nning on reading a little while waiting for Shui Xian to wake up. Since she knew he hadn''t slept well yesterday night and spent the day running around with her, she didn''t want to wake him up thinking he''d be tired.

    But just as she was getting into her reading, her eyes caught sight of the scene outside. It was snowing. Usually, she would turn her attention back to reading without hesitation. But today, her eyes didn''t move. Recalling what Shui Xian had said to her, she stood up and trudged over to the French windows.

    Slowly opening the door, she stepped out on the deck. She extended her hand and the snowkes gently fell on her hand. She closed her palm and looked skywards with her glistening eyes.

    When Shui Xian came downstairs, this was the scene he saw. Although her face had no expressions, her eyes seemed to be fascinated. It was as if she was looking at the snow the very first time. But he knew that wasn''t the case. It was more like, this was her first time feeling the snow.

    However, very soon his eyes widened and rushed over to her side. Hearing the sound of his footsteps, Raelle turned around and smiled, "Good morning, Hubby!" Her words had just fallen when her feet were lifted off the ground. Raelle blinked at him at this close proximity as he held her in his arms.

    He brought her back inside and closed the French door. Taking a wool nket, he wrapped it around her shoulders saying, "How can you just stand there like that?"

    Raelle looked at the nket draped on her shoulders and replied, "Why? Did I do something wrong?"

    "Where is your coat?" he questioned. "What if you caught a cold?"

    "I forgot about that," replied Raelle honestly. She rubbed the tip of her nose that had turned red from the cold.

    Shui Xian rubbed his forehead and crouched down before her, he held her wrist and pulled her sleeve up slightly. Because of the ointment, there was no swelling. The bruise wasn''t as ring as it had beenst night. He heaved a sigh of relief as he held her cold hands in his own and rubbed them saying, "You really need a lot of attention."

    "I don''t," retorted Raelle as she continued to look at his face trying to decipher his expressions. But most of it didn''t make sense to her. Was he worried about her? Why? She didn''t even stand there for that long. Besides, wasn''t she standing under the shade? She only extended her hand to touch the snowke.

    "Yes, you do," he responded almost immediately. "How can someone even forget to take the coat in this cold weather? Are you nning on getting sick?"

    "When you see a rose, your first instinct is to touch it only after getting pricked you recall that it alsoes with thorns." Shui Xian looked into her eyes. "Humans are very shallow creatures. We tend to focus more on the beautiful side of the story rather than focusing on the bitter reality behind that beautiful story."

    Shui Xian smiled slightly at her as he agreed, "Right. You''re actually right. Even after decades, people believe in the love story of Romeo and Juliet but we tend to overlook the fact that their love was the cause of bloodshed." He took a pause before adding, "Some beautiful stories have painful endings. It''s just how things are."

    "I like it when people agree with me," said Raelle in satisfaction.

    Shui Xian''s brows arched up, "Has anyone ever not agreed with you?"

    "They don''t dare to," replied Raelle.

    Shui Xian chuckled softly as his warm hands went up to her cheeks, lightly caressing. He slowly got up to the level that their faces were right in front of each other. She continued to blink at him while his hands continued to caress her cheeks.

    He didn''t know why but he thought that his wife was really worrisome. She really didn''t know how to take care of herself. But that made him want to care about her.

    The way she blinked at him was as if her eyes were drawing him in slowly. She was like a finely detailed painting, tempting him to now end. She was stunning, there was no doubt but what pulled him in, was something else about her.

    A sudden thought popped up in his mind, ''He wanted her.'' He was shocked at that thought but he couldn''t deny it. This was his body''s most honest desire that she evoked without even trying.

    While he was thinking of pulling away, he was caught off-guard when she ced her hand on his wrist and ced her lips against his. Since those lips were already so close, why would she let it go? Raelle believed in doing rather than thinking about the consequences.

    Her other hand went into his thick, smooth hair. Shui Xian cursed in his mind when he felt her deepening the kiss. He grunted before he angled her head for better ess. Her hand moved from his hair to his neck as she pulled him closer. He groaned in response. His tongue traced the contours of her lips before thrusting it inside, iming her fully.

    As he pulled away breaking their kiss, he looked into her moist eyes. "You''re really surprising me every minute."

    "Do you want me to surprise you more?" she asked making him frown slightly. The corner of her lips lifted up as she went on, "Hubby, let''s continue."

    "Huh?" he was dumbfounded.

    She looked back into his eyes intently and repeated, "Let''splete this marriage."

    Shui Xian''s eyes widened in surprise as he understood the meaning behind her words. He really didn''t know what to say right now. As he stared at her in silence for a long moment.

 Chapter 51 - Not An Impulse

    "Wife, you do know whates after this right?" he asked after a moment of extended silence which he spent trying to make sure he understood her meaning right and wasn''t reading too much into it.

    Raelle nodded, "Toplete a marriage, you have to consummate it." When she put it like this, Shui Xian was yet again left with nothing to say. He was definitely right about her meaning.

    "Wife, did you read the wrong book today?" he couldn''t help asking curiously. "The way your eyes shimmers with innocence is making it difficult for me to really believe that you''re telling me to continue."

    Raelle gave him a look, "Hubby, I mighte off as innocent but I''m not foolish." She took a pause to add, "The innocence you see is the reflection of my inexperience. Can you see that innocence in my eyes right now?"

    Shui Xian had been looking into her eyes. He hadn''t looked away for a while now and he could say it with certainty, "No."

    "What do you see?" she inquired.

    "Curiosity," he replied.

    Raelle gave him a lopsided grin as she stood up, "That''s because I am genuinely curious to know what happens next." Shui Xian''s lips parted as he was about to say something but she continued, "And don''t even think for a second that I don''t know how this goes. I''m a science student, you can''t possibly expect me to be that clueless regarding this. I''m just curious to experience it for myself." Shui Xian was left staring at her with his slightly parted lips. "You told me yourself that I can''t find everything in books. Then show me what I can''t find in those books."

    Shui Xian would have never thought that his own words woulde back to bite him and that too at this moment and in this way. This was so unexpected for him! For a moment, he even thought he might still be asleep and this was all just a dream. But of course, another part of him wanted it to be as real as it felt right now.

    His hands snaked around her waist and pulled her closer. The front of their bodies touched with just theyer of fabric between them. Perhaps it was because of the firece but Shui Xian felt like the atmosphere around him was scorching hot right now.

    "Or maybe you''re just talking on impulse," his voice came out breathy.

    "I. Don''t. Do. Anything. On. Impulse." She enunciated each word to get her message across. Did she look that impulsive to people?

    He closed his eyes briefly before he imed her lips. His hand tugged in her hair gently. It was a slow-burning kiss; long, slow, softly tongue teasing kind of kiss that leaves one breathless. Then it turned into a passionate kiss as their tongues danced together on the rhythm of desire.

    Raelle had been just following him all this while and didn''t know how a soft groan escaped from her throat at the sudden uncontroble sensation she felt in the pit of her stomach. She couldn''t describe this sensation just like she has yet to learn to describe any of the sensations she felt. However, she knew this sudden burst of sensation was strong andpelling.

    Shui Xian''s hands rubbed the space under her breasts over the fabric of her shirt. Finding it a bother, his hands slid inside her shirt and he was left frozen for a moment.

    Raelle blinked at him as she asked, "What''s wrong?"

    Shui Xian bit his bottom lip before saying, "You aren''t wearing anything underneath this shirt."

    Raelle nodded her head frankly, "I told you, I don''t do things on impulse. I have it all nned out."

    "Fuck!" he cursed his breath before he lifted his own shirt off and tossed it on the floor.

    Then he lifted her shirt off of her and threw it somewhere as well. He didn''t even feel surprised at the fact that she didn''t even blush or felt embarrassed. For someone as inexperienced as she was, she seemed pretty confident right now. And bold as well from the way she was looking at his bare chest.

    However, his attention was solely on her face. His eyes didn''t even move towards her bare chest. He found her steady expressions even more fascinating.

    Her eyes seemed to be sparkling with interest as her hand lifted to touch him but before she could do it, he held her back in his arms and reimed her lips. Raelle could feel the warmth of his body in this position; skin to skin. Her breasts were crushed against his hard chest but even that didn''t faze her resolve. In fact, it made her crave for something more.

    His lips yed their way down her neck. It was different from the way he kissed her neckst time. At that time, he was teasing her with a soft kiss. This time, even Raelle could tell he was being serious as he bit on her neck, sucked deeply and even his tongue darted out to y.

    All this while Raelle''s expressions didn''t change but her mind was solely focused on trying to understand these strange sensations she felt. But even with all her attention, she couldn''t possibly word any of it. An involuntary soft moan did escape from her mouth when he sucked on her ear and bit it gently.

    With her stuck in his arms, heid her down on the thick, fluffy rug before the firece. He continued to suck on her ear and Raelle ended up leaning into the feeling that evoked.

    He pulled away and looked at her face before smiling at her softly, "I''m gonna ask again, are you sure about this?"

    Raelle tried to decipher the look in his eyes but wasn''t able to do so yet again. "I''m always sure," she replied.

    Shui Xian nodded his head and made his way to her breasts all the while holding her gaze as if telling her to continue looking at him carefully. And that''s exactly what she did.

 Chapter 52 - Hold Back

    Although this was the first time for Raelle, it wasn''t the same for Shui Xian. However, this was their first time together and that made it all the more unique. Shui Xian had been a very affectionate man. From a young age, he appreciated emotions and feelings. Perhaps that''s why sex was a sacred act for him.

    And he believed that this was something one should be doing with the one they love with all their heart and soul. He would never take physical intimacy as a joke. That''s why he had asked Raelle repeatedly whether she really wanted him to continue or not. The reason he agreed to it wasn''t just because it was his body''s deepest desire at the moment but also because they were already married.

    Shui Xian took all the rtionships in his life very seriously. And even if he felt no love for Raelle at the moment, he knew she was his legal wife and as her husband, he was supposed to provide her with everything she wanted. And wasn''t physical intimacy a part of his responsibility? How could he back away from it?

    He would never do anything hardheartedly in his life. Whether it was a business deal or a rtionship, he''d like to give it his all. How could he not want to give his all to this marriage?

    ***WARNING!!! No one under 18 allowed from here onwards. I know none of you under 18 are gonna listen but as a responsible author, I''m still giving this warning! Even though I know it''s pointless!***

    Raelle held his gaze as his lips caught her turgid nipple. She found it strange to have his warm, soft lips on that ce of her body. Shui Xian was still looking into her eyes trying to find out what she was thinking about while his other hand gave attention to her other breast. Raelle''s back arched up slightly on instinct.

    She felt surprised by her own reaction. It was the first time, she felt like her body and her mind weren''t in sync at all. Because before she could process what she was feeling, her body was acting on its own. As if her body had a mind of its own.

    Seeing how her back arched, his eyes darkened. He gently bit her nipple before encircling it with his tongue. That hot, wet, and squirmy tongue brought about a novel feeling that made her moan in response. The corner of his lips curled up in satisfaction and his actions turned even wilder. He assaulted her breasts with biting and sucking making her body shiver slightly. As for why Raelle felt this shiver in her body, she couldn''t tell herself.

    Since Shui Xian had already epted that he wanted her, he didn''t think there was any point in holding back anymore. Since his body desired her, there was nothing wrong with acting upon those desires. Hearing her moan had ignited a searing fire within him. It was quite unbelievable to even him how he desired her so much right now.

    While his lips were alternatively giving attention to her breasts, his hand slid inside her trousers. It was surprising and yet not very surprising to find that she wasn''t wearing any panties. Shui Xian had to say that she really did had it all nned out already. His hand slid between her legs and cupped her intimate part causing her lips to part slightly but her eyes to grow brighter with curiosity and maybe there was some anticipation that he could see.

    Shui Xian didn''t know what it was but he found her reactions really refreshing. She was truly like a breath of fresh air. She didn''t put on a bold front and acted coyter on with such things, she was just as upfront about everything. Perhaps, she didn''t even know what coyness really was like. But she didn''t realize that she didn''t need to act coquettish to seduce someone, it was her intrepidness that could enchant anyone.

    His breathing became short and ragged because of how she stared into his eyes. She hadn''t lost herself in the desire that her body felt. Her mind was just as clear as before.

    Just as he felt her wetness against his palm, he heard her voice, "It''s wet, isn''t it?" Shui Xian closed his eyes, not knowing what to say to that. Was it okay for her to just ask that?

    However, he threw caution out the window. She wasn''t like a normal person, why was he treating her like one? She was special, he needed to talk in a way she could understand.

    He licked his lips and holding her gaze, replied, "I think you can do better than this."

    "Huh?" She looked confused.

    Right then, Shui Xian''s fingers worked their magic on her most intimate part that made her squirm a little. Her hand went into his hair as her fingers ran through his hair. She wasn''t tugging at his hair, she seemed as if she was ying with his thick hair with interest.

    She wasn''t daunted by any of it. She could tell something was changing in her body but it was hard to say what it was. When his fingers started moving against her intimate part, she was feeling her breath getting harsher.

    Shui Xian''s hand didn''t move from her womanhood, he kept his pace and caught her lips again for a rough kiss. Raelle felt his tongue delving all the way inside her mouth and took control in a domineering way. It was like he wanted to make her feel this kiss all the way to her soul. Raelle didn''t stop him, although she had always been in control of her life, it didn''t hurt to let him try to control her body for once.

    She was open to everything life had to offer. However, emotions weren''t something life had to offer that was something made up by humans and that''s why she didn''t believe in it very much. So, she responded with equal fervor, as best as she could follow him with her inexperienced self. She wanted to surrender her body to him and see what he would make of it. Her body tensed up in his arms and quivered, reaching her limit. Her climax was so strong that she had closed her eyes for a brief period of time.

    Shui Xian let go of her lips and stared at her. Her lips were red and swollen from their kiss. When she opened her eyes, Shui Xian felt like he was looking at the most beautiful scene. There was ayer of moistness covering her ck jade-like orbs but it made them seem so mesmerizing especially with that twinkle in her eyes that tugged at his heart.

    He groaned inwardly knowing he wasn''t gonna be able to hold back now. There was no way, he''d be able to do it before her.

 Chapter 53 - Wonâ€™t Charge Anything

    The snow was still falling outside. And as the newyer of snow clothed the trees rose as white fairytale beings in that wintryndscape, for the grey clouds had bequeathed a bounty of snow. The snow falling outside seemednguidly dancing on the rhythm of the wind.

    There was no sun outside today. The sky was dominated by those grey clouds. It made this chilly day seem a little gloomy. But that also made the warmth of the firece all the more precious inside the room.

    The firece mimicked the warmth of the sunny day. Since it was an electric firece, one couldn''t hear the crackles that the lively mes would make. The air was neither smokey, nor one could smell the pine burning. However, even with its silent warmth, it brought reassurance andfort on a gloomy bitter winter day.

    In thatfortable cozy silence, one could hear the ambiguous sounds that could make one blush.

    Live in the moment was what Shui Xian heard repeatedly in his life. The past is already gone was what he heard. But for once, he really did live in the moment. Without letting his emotions control him or hold him back, he took his time and savored every moment spent with Raelle.

    With fire burning in the background and the snow falling outside the window, two naked bodies could be seen moving together softly inside the room. From there on in it was all passion, intense and intoxicating. Shui Xian didn''t know what it was but he did feel like there was definitely something intoxicating about it. Their bodies were in perfect harmony.

    When theyid together with a wool nket draped over their naked bodies that were still stuck together with Raelle''s back to his chest, Shui Xian knew this intoxication wasn''t gonna leave him. It was as if it was his first time realizing that his wife was hauntingly gorgeous, of course, he meant it in a good way.

    They were both silent for a long while. Shui Xian was recalling back her expressions when he entered her. That was the first time he found a crease on her face. It was almost imperceptible but he could tell that she was feeling some difort when he entered her. However, there was nothing that came out of her mouth. He looked at the back of her head and tightened his arm around her waist.

    Did she really not feel pain or she really couldn''t express it? He wondered to himself.

    Meanwhile, Raelle''s brain was trying to process everything that just happened. It wasn''t even a surprise that when it came to describing how she felt, her unlimited vocabry would suddenlyck the right words. Her body was the most honest in that department, but her brain wasn''t. Because her brain couldn''t process it.

    Take that injury she had on her wrist yesterday during skiing, for instance. Raelle had felt something but what she felt was pain, that she couldn''t tell. In her dictionary, she only had two emotions; she either felt good or she felt bad.

    Right now, she certainly felt good. That was all she could say. She wished she could describe it in a better way but she couldn''t do it. Because to describe something, she needed to first understand that feeling herself. And for now, she couldn''t differentiate between most of her feelings except for good or bad.

    "Why are you so silent now?" she heard his voice from right beside her ear.

    "I''m usually a silent person," she replied.

    "Really?" Shui Xian sounded surprised. "I thought you liked to talk."

    Raelle shook her head, "It''s true I have a lot to say but not everyone can listen to what I have to say. 99% of the time, I don''t make sense to people. I didn''t even make sense to my psychologist team. They were certainly not happy talking to me or listening to me."

    "Ah," let out Shui Xian. He didn''t even have to ask why that was the case. But it made him feel bad for some reason. Because he could tell she really had a lot to say. It must have been difficult for her to resonate with people being that logical with her bookish knowledge and stage way of seeing everything around her.

    She continued, "So, I stopped talking to people. I realized that even my words are precious, I shouldn''t waste them on just anyone. Now, people are even willing to pay me to hear my voice."

    Shui Xian smiled slightly as he asked, "How much I have to pay to end this silence of yours?"

    Raelle turned her head and looked at his face, "Are you willing to listen to me? No matter how frustrating I sound?"

    He blinked his head, "Absolutely."

    She continued to look into his eyes trying to see whether he was serious or not. Not finding any faults, she said, "Hubby, I won''t charge you anything."

    "Oh, such an honor?" he acted surprised.

    "Since you''re my husband, I can make that exception for you," was her response that made him chuckle softy.

    They didn''t talk about the tempestuous christening they just had undergone. They didn''t feel the need to do so. Since they both werefortably lying against each other, they really didn''t need words to say anything. Shui Xian felt like their bodies already had gone through the deepest conversation.

    "Wife, you''re seriously very adorable sometimes," he couldn''t help saying it to her.

    "And sometimes I''m equally annoying," she added catching him off guard. "That''s what my grandfather says."

    Shui Xian had a look of understanding and he pursed his lips in reply. He couldn''t possibly disagree with it now. It''d be disrespectful to Grandfather Xiang. It was not because he felt that it was a fact. It was definitely because he thought he shouldn''t go against an elder''s words. That''s the only reason he wasn''t saying anything to disagree.

    He thought this conversation was over but she didn''t think so.

    "You agree with my grandfather?" she questioned him.

    Shui Xian felt like it was a rhetorical question and he had no right answer for it. However, with his wife''s nature, she wasn''t gonna let him escape as well. He sighed out, "I can''t disagree with him either."

    Raelle nodded her head as she said, "It''s good that you agree with him. It means you''re being honest. Besides, I don''t like it when people disagree with my grandfather. Even I have never done it!"

    Shui Xian pressed his lips together and decided not to say anything. There was no need to.

 Chapter 54 - Figure You Out

    Although Shui Xian feltzy after their tiring exercise, Raelle didn''t seem to share his thoughts. Even the weather was making him want toze around in this cozy space with her snuggled up against his body but soon, she squirmed her way out of his arms and got up.

    Looking at the big clock in the room, she said, "It''s already 11 o''clock in the morning." She pulled the wool nket as she wrapped it around her body saying, "Let''s have breakfast."

    Shui Xian was left naked without the covers of the nket. "It''s almost time for lunch though."

    "But I haven''t had breakfast yet," she replied as she turned to look at him.

    Without the obstruction of the nket, she could appreciate his body. Broad shoulders, narrow buttocks, and thin waist. Those beautifully muscled lines were smooth and deep. She knew it, after all, she touched it all carefully earlier.

    Noticing how her eyes were looking at him, Shui Xian held the cushion from the couch and covered his manhood.

    "Tch." She tutted. "I have seen it all though."

    "I know," he replied. "I''m doing it so that you pay attention to what I am saying."

    "Did you say anything?" she questioned.

    "See? You didn''t even listen that''s how engrossed you''re in ogling."

    "Anyone can get distracted," she said. "It''s an honest mistake. Well, it''s not really a mistake but never mind. So, what were you saying?"

    Shui Xian sighed softly, "I said let''s just skip the breakfast."

    "No!" was her in reply. "I have to have three meals a day. If it''s not breakfast, we''d eat brunch."

    Shui Xian didn''t think there was a need to argue, "So, what do you want to eat? Pancakes or waffles?"

    Raelle looked at his body saying, "I certainly like the one with the abs. Let''s go with waffles."

    Shui Xian frowned slightly, "What do waffles have to do with abs?"

    "Waffles are pancakes with abs, you don''t know?" she deadpanned.

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched and he shook his head, "Okay. We''ll have waffles."

    Raelle left him there as she went to the bathroom. Standing before the mirror, she looked at red marks littered all over her chest and said out, "Did I get a rash?" Something clicked in her mind as she pointed at her reflection, "No! This must be the famous mosquito bites." She touched the hickey right under her vicle that seemed to be ring at her and whispered, "My big mosquito is quite experienced." She was silent for a minute before she lifted her eyes to look right into her own eyes and said, "I like that."

    Meanwhile, Shui Xian chose to go to the other bathroom to take a shower. So by the time Raelle came back, he was already waiting for her looking fresh and as handsome as always. As they sat down to eat, Shui Xian started, "I don''t think we can do much in this weather."

    Raelle also looked out at the constantly falling snow and nodded her head, "Don''t we have to go back in the evening?"

    "If the weather didn''t get better, we won''t be able to leave," he answered.

    Raelle didn''t reply as she continued to eat in silence. Shui Xian waited for a moment before asking, "Wanna go out for a walk?" Raelle eyed him as he went on, "We won''t go far."

    It took him over two hours to convince her for that walk. In her words, it was wise to stay inside the house in this weather. Of course, his enthusiastic self won''t listen to her logical and wise words. How could he stay cooped up inside the room when the snow looked so beautiful?

    Wrapped up in warm clothes, as they went out of the house, Raelle could finally catch the snowkes but she couldn''t feel the touch since she was wearing the wool gloves. Suddenly, something hit the side of her shoulder. She looked over and found Shui Xian with a snowball in his hand. He threw it again and it hit her arm. Since it was made from the freshly fallen kes, it burst open on the impact, showering crystalline fragments.

    "Freshly fallen snow is like an invitation." She heard him shouting from some distance. "For a snowball fight!"

    He picked the snow with his glove d hand, frozen crystals dangling from the wild loose fibers. The coldness of the snow had already deeply chilled his fingers where they no longer wished to bend. But cold or not, who cared? A snowball fight would look over such tedious things.

    Raelle continued to blink at him as another icy ball was thrown at her. However, she turned to a side and easily dodged it. After thinking for a while, she bent over to pick some snow and made a ball. She threw it towards Shui Xian and thetter didn''t even dodge. With a smile, he let the snowball hit his head.

    She patted her hands saying, "This was... Not fun."

    Shui Xian smiled as he heard her words and walked over to say, "Wanna build a snowman?"

    "I never even liked it when Yanyan used to drag me to build one."

    "What do you want to do then?" he asked.

    She extended her hand towards him and he eyed her hand before putting his hand into hers. She took off his wet glove and held his hand before putting it into the pocket of her own coat saying, "Let''s just continue with our walk."

    Shui Xian was stunned for a moment before he nodded his head.

    "You''re a quiet person," she said out of nowhere. Shui Xian raised his brows at her in question and she borated, "I don''t talk because people don''t understand. But you seem to really like being silent." She took a pause and added, "I''ve read somewhere that quiet people are really interesting. You never know if they''re dancing in their daydream or if they''re carrying the weight of the world." She looked up at him, "Which one is it for you?"

    Shui Xian tapped the tip of her nose saying, "I''m trying to figure you out."

    "Best of luck for that," she said. "Even I haven''t figured myself out yet."

 Chapter 55 - Do A Better Job

    Shui Xian and Raelle came back home in the middle of the night, so they didn''t get the chance to see Shui Koshing. It was only in the morning the next day when everyone gathered at the breakfast table that Shui Koshing got to see his son and daughter-inw.

    Shui Koshing immediately put the newspaper down as soon as saw Raelleing with Shui Xian following behind her. Raelle took a seat as she greeted him, "Good morning..."

    Seeing her struggling with how to call him, he again said, "I told you, you can call me anything."

    Shui Xian pulled out the chair beside Raelle as he said, "B¨¤, don''t say it like that. She might start calling you Koko."

    Shui Koshing''s lips twitched at his son''s remark but soon, his eyes widened in shock. Did his son just crack a joke? Seriously? He was so shocked that he even forgot how to react.

    He only came back to reality when he heard Raelle asking Shui Xian, "Can I?"

    "Huh?"

    "Can I call him Koko?" she questioned.

    Shui Koshing chuckled at that especially seeing his son''s stunned expression and said, "It seems it''s you who put ideas into her head."

    Raelle cleared her throat and said, "So, I can''t call you like that it seems..."

    "Actually, I don''t mind," was Shui Koshing''s reply.

    Raelle tucked the loose strand of hair behind her ear before saying, "No. I''ll call you... B..." She took a while before saying, "B¨¤." Shui Koshing''s brows raised up in surprise. "I might take a bit of a time to get used to this but I''ll try my best."

    Shui Koshing was silent for a minute before he said, "I really don''t mind waiting. But you don''t have to push yourself if you feel ufortable with it."

    "There is nothing to be ufortable about," she responded. "It''s your right. I mean, as my husband''s father, that''s the respect you deserve." Both father and son were looking at her with nothing to say. "I just meant that I''m not used to calling anyone B¨¤. That''s why it might take me a while."

    Shui Koshing smiled at her gently, "It''s alright. Take your time. I''ll wait for my daughter-inw."

    "Thank you!" she said. "For understanding."

    Shui Koshing continued to smile at her waved it off nonchntly. As Raelle took a toast and jam, she suddenly missed her Yanyan. At home, she never had to spread jam on her toast. It was always done for her. Mostly, she was even fed.

    Suddenly, a toast with jam evenly spread over it appeared before her eyes, she turned her head to look at her husband who said, "Stop staring already. Eat! Aren''t you gettingte?"

    "Oh," with that she took the toast from him and took a bite.

    Shui Koshing silently observed their interaction with a satisfied smile on his face. See? As soon as he hadid eyes on her, he knew she was meant for his son!

    "Elle, I heard you got hurt while skiing," began Shui Koshing when he saw that they were almost done with their breakfast. "Is it okay now?"

    Raelle looked back at her husband who said, "He asked how we are doing. I just told him in the passing that you got a little hurt."

    Raelle took a breath and looked at Shui Koshing, "By any chance, you didn''t mention it to my..."

    Her words were left in her throat as she heard...

    "Elle!"

    "Raelle!"

    She took another deep breath and smiled at Shui Koshing, "It seems you did mention it to my grandfather. How amazing!"

    Of course, there was nothing amazing about any of it! She stood up and walked over to her grandfather and Yanyan who hade to see her early in the morning. It seemed she was gonna bete for work today. There was no way around it.

    "Opa!" she called out in as cheerful a voice as she possibly could get out. Her burgundy cowboy boots didn''t make a loud sound as she ran over to Grandfather Xiang and bent down to hug him. "Oh, I missed my Opa so much!"

    Grandfather Xiang was obviously happy to see his granddaughter but her words didn''t bring him any happiness. He patted her back saying, "I really wish you meant that." He sighed and held her wrist, "Where did you get hurt?"

    "Doctor,e inside already."

    Raelle heard Mu Chenyan calling out and pressed her lips together. Was there even a point in telling them she was fine? No! There was no point! These two people would never believe her words. But they also had a solid reason for that.

    Shui Xian watched this all with amusement as the doctor examined Raelle from head to toe. He came to greet Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan but couldn''t help to smile at his wife''s helplessness. It seemed like how she made people feel helpless, there was someone to make her feel the same way. How interesting!

    Both Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan only rxed when the doctor said that her injury was so small that she didn''t even need a doctor. It was already almost healed.

    "Are you satisfied?" asked Raelle looking at these two worrywarts.

    "We were just worried," Mu Chenyan said to her.

    "I know," was Raelle''s reply.

    "It seems I made you both worry," Shui Xian spoke up making Raelle look at him. "I should have taken better care of her."

    Raelle walked past him to take her coat and purse from the maid standing at the side as she patted his shoulder and said, "Then do your job properly, Hubby."

    While she waved at everyone and left, Shui Koshing ended upughing. He looked at his son and said, "Didn''t you hear her? Do a better job at taking care of her. What kind of a husband are you?"

    "You''re really enjoying this, aren''t you?"

    Shui Koshing nodded without hesitation. Then he turned to Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan and said, "Since you both are already here, let''s have some tea together."

    "Then I''m also gonna leave now," said Shui Xian and said goodbye to everyone.

 Chapter 56 - The Woman I Love

    "These past couple of years theirpany hadn''t been doing operating sessfully." Raelle was having a video conference, listening to the report of the employees from Country G. The representative continued to speak, "Theirpany had invested in a second-tier city where the property market has be saturated. Their new investment failed and it has cost them a lot, they might even have to break the revenue chain."

    "Are you suggested that we shouldn''t co-operate with them?" asked Raelle while her eyes didn''t even lift from the file in her hand.

    "Actually, I believe we should. Although they are in this predicament, I still believe in their CEO. He is a capable man," said the employee who was giving the report.

    "If he is a capable man, how did he reach to such a state?" she retorted straightforwardly.

    "His luck didn''t work in his favor this time," was the employee''s reply which made everyone else in the conference room gasp out.

    Raelle''s eyes liftednguidly and her gaze met with the person who had been giving the report through the screen. The person froze instantly and his breath hitched.

    "Tell me, Mr. Bat, is your luck on your side today?"

    Hearing Raelle''s question, no one even dared to breathe loudly. Even though she was thousands of miles away from them, they couldn''t help feeling like her eminence was pressing down on them at this moment.

    In this silence, the sound of the door opening was heard even clearer. They all shook when the door was mmed. It shocked them since the sound came from Raelle''s side and she didn''t even flinch. Neither did her eyes moved away to even see who had entered her office. And that too in such a tyrannical manner.

    They saw a young man walking behind the couch where Raelle was sitting. The young man took off his jacket and threw it at her. It fell on her head and she simply pushed it away. Later the young man took off his cap and the mask he was wearing as his voice as clear as water rang out, "Do you have something to eat?"

    To their surprise, Raelle lifted her hand and pointed at something and the young man finally moved out of their line of sight. However, this kind of scene left them baffled beyond belief. Someone was actually not afraid of death before Raelle Xiang, which came as a huge shock to the people who had been working with her for years now.

    "President Raelle," called out a senior manager. "Shall we continue with the rest of the reports?"

    Raelle turned her eyes back towards the document in her hand and nodded, "I never said you shouldn''t. Stop wasting my time and continue. You have only 15 more minutes."

    The employee who had been in a spot looked gratefully at the senior manager. For a moment, he must have really lost his mind to forget that for Raelle Xiang, there was no such thing as luck. It was all based on calctions. Luck would never be a factor for sess and that, she believed wholeheartedly. He was curious about the identity of the young man behind his boss but he was even more grateful towards that handsome young man who seemed to have saved his job today.

    The young man who dared to treat Raelle so casually was none other than Hyson. And while she was on the video call, he had already munched on all the snacks she had in her cab. As soon as he saw her ending the call, he called out, "Don''t you have anything else here? You called me here and you have nothing to even offer me to eat?"

    "I called you over to have lunch with me," told Raelle to him. "There is still 10 minutes before lunchtime. So, have patience."

    "Being your friend, the one thing I learned is patience," replied Hyson as he sat in her swivel chair without a care in the world.

    Raelle went over and stood before the desk as she asked, "You''ve been in a bad moodtely?"

    It was more of a statement rather than a question. Hyson eyed her and asked, "How do you know I''m in a bad mood?"

    "You wouldn''t send me that provoking message otherwise," she replied inly. Taking a moment, she added, "Don''t tell me you''re really upset because your heart is torn after seeing me marrying another man."

    Hyson made a face as if he was about to vomit everything he just ate. "Was that your attempt to joke around? Because it sucked!" He took a moment and added, "There is only one woman I love in this life, and that''s my mom!"

    Raelle flipped the pen in her hand repeatedly as she continued to look at his face and asked, "Then what is bothering you?"

    Hyson looked back at her and smiled, "I''m worried about you. Mostly, about your poor husband. Whenever I think about how is gonna have to live his life with you, my heart aches for him."

    "Liar!" was all she said with a straight face making him roll his eyes at her.

    "Did you wear the gift I sent you?" he asked in return.

    "No," she answered honestly. Even he knew the answer to the question he asked.

    "Since you don''t value my gift, I''m not gonna answer you either," he said. "Go and find out what''s bothering me on your own."

    "Do you really think I can''t?" she questioned. She thought about it before continuing, "I can even narrow it down for you right now." Hyson arched his brow at her slightly as she went on, "It''s not a personal problem since you neither have friends nor lovers. And in your family, you only have a mother who can never give you any worry. What does that leave? Your career!"

    "I hate you," he said. "Why do you have to analyze everything?"

    "I didn''t even have to though," she replied. "You happen to be pretty simple to understand."

 Chapter 57 - Results Of Your Research

    Hyson already knew he could make his mother back off but not his best friend. If Raelle got stuck on something, she wouldn''t stop probing until she learned about the whole situation. It wasn''t that he couldn''t share it with her, he just didn''t see the point.

    "They say, paper can''t wrap fire,[1]" Hyson began putting on an extremely wise appearance. "One of my group members has been caught with his girlfriend on a date by the media. Theizens are not very happy about his dating scandal."

    "So?" she questioned. "How does this concern you?"

    "No eggs stay intact under an overturned nest,[2]" said Hyson as he gave her a look. "We are part of a boy group. One person''s scandal affects all of us. That''s how this industry works." He rubbed his forehead and went on, "Thepany''s management is still observing the online reaction of people, after that they''lle to whatever conclusion."

    "And if the issue blew up?" she questioned.

    "Either that member will have to leave the group or we''ll have to disband entirely." He put his head on the desk before him as he said, "Pretty messed up, right?"

    "Even if that happens, why are you worried?" asked Raelle. "Bing an idol was never your dream anyway. You only became one because your mother happened to tell you while watching a music award show that she''d be proud to see her son on a big stage like that."

    "That is still my reason to worry," he answered. "I don''t mind starting all over again. I even think I can get a job at yourpany. It''s a dream ce to work for young people right now." He groaned, "But what about mum? I really want her to see me shine."

    "Although I don''t do this every day, I can still offer you a job here. Want it?"

    "Get lost!" was his response.

    Raelle already knew she''d be receiving that answer. This best friend of hers had never tried to take advantage of the fact that she was one of the richest women in the world.

    "Do you want me to help?" she asked seriously. This time even Hyson knew that she was very serious. That''s why he took a moment to think.

    Hyson put his chin on the desk as he looked at her, "Have I ever asked you for help?" Before she could say anything, he went on, "I still haven''t fallen that far. I believe everything will be fine. My mum is always praying for me, nothing can go wrong."

    "Blindly believing in prayers..." she said in a soft voice and he squinted his eyes at her. Seeing that, she didn''t continue her words, he was satisfied. She knew Hyson had blind faith in his mother just like people did for God. And one should never challenge other''s faith.

    He leaned back in her swivel chair and continued to spin round and round.

    "How was your honeymoon?" he asked as his spinning suddenly came to a halt. "Was it fun?"

    "It was good," was what she said making him raise his brows in interest.

    "Good?" he repeated with a wicked grin. "Define good."

    "Take what I''m giving nicely," she said. "Let''s not forget that people get into idents while trying to overtake."

    Hyson cursed under his breath before heughed out, "You don''t have to give me the details though. That tan high neck sweater is already saying something."

    Raelle sat down before him as her fingers intertwinedzily, she asked, "I''m suddenly curious to know what it is saying."

    "Exactly what you''re trying to hide," his grin had widened now. "You definitely had your fun. And that is so like you."

    Raelle eyed him for a while, "What I did is called research. But how do you know what I did?"

    Hyson stood up and came around the desk. He bent over and tucked her hair behind her ear but his fingers lingered under her earlobe for longer than necessary. His voice lowered as he said, "You aren''t even trying to hide the results of your research."

    Thinking of something, Raelle pushed him away and went over to look in the mirror. She tilted her head and looked at the ear where he touched and ended up smiling. Just behind her earlobe was a red mark. It wasn''t bright. But it wasn''t light either.

    She came back to his side and asked, "Maybe it''s just a rash."

    Hyson snorted, "Is it?"

    "No, it isn''t," she honestly replied without hiding anything from him. She never hid anything. Not just from him, she was just straightforward and she didn''t think she did anything that she needed to hide. If she ever felt like she needed to lie about something, she''d definitely not do that thing. She stared into his eyes and asked, "Come clean. How did you figure it out?"

    "Figure it out?" repeated Hyson. "I have known you for far too long now. You''re not the shy type. I even sent that gift to you because I knew you''d pull up a stunt."

    "How is sleeping with my husband is me pulling up a stunt?" she retorted inly. "Isn''t that something very normal in a marriage? You said it yourself!"

    Hyson shook his head and decided not to argue with her, "Where did you guys go?"

    "Skiing," she replied.

    "Oh, that sounds so much fun," he said with a sigh. "I want to go too."

    "On a honeymoon?" she retorted.

    Hyson red at her, "No! I want to go skiing!" He huffed. "Why would I want to go on a honeymoon when I don''t even want to get married?"

    "Who said you need to be married to go on a honeymoon?" questioned Raelle leaving Hyson gaping at her disbelief.

    Hyson held her shoulders and shook her, "Tell me, what did that husband of yours do to you?"

    "Scram!" was Raelle''s response making himugh out loud.

    [1] ''Paper can''t wrap fire'': Truth can''t be concealed.

    [2] ''No eggs stay intact under an overturned nest'': This means that when a group suffers, so do all the individuals within it

 Chapter 58 - Like Butter

    Hyson hadughed for a long time because of her reaction. He didn''t even know why he found it so funny. But he couldn''t helpughing his heart out. But as soon as hisughter vanished, a serious expression appeared on his face. His eyes ran over the books ced carefully on the shelf as he voiced out, "I had been trying to corrupt you for years and yet I failed. Howe in just two days, your husband managed to change your bookish definition of the honeymoon?" He had a look of admiration as he went on, "I shouldn''t have doubted Master Xian''s abilities. He is indeed mighty as people say."

    "How did my definition change?" she asked as she leaned against the side of her desk. "The short amount of time at the beginning of a new rtionship, activity, or pursuit when everything goes well and seems to be free of problems is known as ''A honeymoon period.''" Hyson''s head whipped around so fast that he almost got whish. "I was telling you that you just need to start a new activity and that''d be counted as being on honeymoon. You definitely don''t need to get married to experience the joy of a honeymoon. What were you thinking?"

    A vein on Hyson''s temple throbbed making him want to strangle her. "Do you really think I''m a fool?" Raelle nodded her head without even thinking and he let out a chuckle, "Indeed. You do treat me like a fool. I shouldn''t even be bothering questioning that."

    "Why do you bother then?" she retorted.

    *Knock! Knock!*

    With two knocks, the door of her office was slightly opened and Cloe''s head appeared in Raelle''s sight. "Chief, where would you like to have your lunch?"

    Raelle beckoned her inside, "Right here."

    "Oh, okay," replied Cloe before she brought the tray of food inside. She had to go back and forth to bring in all the dishes and set it all up on the table. "Is there anything else you want?" She asked looking at Raelle and Hyson.

    "This is enough," said Hyson as he went to wash his hands to get prepared to eat.

    "Then I''ll take my leave," said Cloe and was about to turn to leave when Raelle stopped her.

    "Just sit down and eat with us."

    Cloe was ttered to hear that offer and hurriedly nodded her head. As the three of them sat down together to eat, Raelle couldn''t help noticing the way her assistant had been staring at her best friend with starry eyes.

    "Cloe," she called out. "What''s with that look in your eyes?"

    Cloe lowered her eyes and said, "Actually, Chief, since the time you told me that he is an idol, I had been..."

    "Stalking him online?" Raelle suggested a suitable word from her vocabry for Cloe.

    "It''s not stalking," argued Cloe. "It''s called the process of bing a fangirl." She continued to stare at Hyson''s handsome face as she gushed, "The moment I heard you sing, my heart just went ''thump thump''. I''m too old to do this but I couldn''t help it. You''re an amazing singer."

    Hyson smiled at her and then looked at Raelle, "I am so happy to see that you have such capable employees. They are neither blind nor deaf like you." Raelle didn''t even react to the way he was trying to insult her. And that too before her assistant. "Miss Cloe, I feel like we''d make good friends."

    Cloe grinned at him, "If you ever have to write a resume, please do add... ''I''m a nutter, but I sing like butter. Every word that I utter, will make your heart flutter.''"

    Hysonughed out at that. He pointed at Raelle, "I have something simr about your boss as well." Cloe leaned over to hear it with anticipation bubbling in her eyes. "Raelle Xiang... ''I talk like a cutter, so I make people stutter.''"

    "Having fun, are we?" Raelle''s calm voice rang out as the other two were having fun with their own kind of humor. She gave both of them a look before adding, "Just because my life has no color, do you really think I won''t dare to paint you both in blood''s cover?"

    Hyson patted her shoulder, "Your dark humor is really no fun."

    "I wasn''t being funny though," replied Raelle frankly which made Cloe seal her lips. Obviously, Hyson wasn''t scared of death but Cloe was. Especially when she believed that her boss might act upon her dark humor. Raelle looked at Cloe and said, "It''s better if you concentrate on eating your lunch rather than trying to tter him."

    Hyson tutted at that. "Such a cruel boss you are. Can''t you let her enjoy it for a while? It''s not like we''ll be seeing each other every day."

    Cloe also nodded in agreement as she added, "Chief, it''s not like I see stars walking out of my phone screen every day." She showed Raelle her phone screen which had Hyson''s photo and went on, "Right now, I really feel like he came out of my phone screen. It''s that unreal. Even though I met him in person before bing his fan."

    "You both can have your fan and artist enjoyment outside of my office," she said making them both re at her. Obviously, only Hyson dared to re, Cloe could only think about doing it.

    "Chief, you''re no fun," began Cloe. "You don''t even show me your husband and now you don''t even let me have some fun with your best friend. I never knew you''re this stingy."

    Hyson gasped at that, "Elle, how can you not show her your husband? If he was my husband, I''d have screamed it to the whole world by now."

    "Fortunately, he isn''t your husband," replied Raelle with a straight face making Hyson close his eyes to hold back his burst of curses.

    He caressed his own head as he mumbled, "It''s okay, Yue Fai. It happens. Her brain has a few cracks. No need to take her seriously. There is no need at all." After calming himself like that, he looked at Raelle again with a smile and said, "It''s because I''m an amazing person that we''re still friends."

    "Oh," responded Raelle.

    "Hear me out," he began. "Are you the most attractive girl out there? Of course not!" Cloe''s eyes went round as he continued, "Do you have a good personality? A big, fat NO!" Cloe cowered back a little. Who would dare say this to Raelle''s face? Indeed, she was stanning the right guy for the very first time in her life. "Also, do you wake up every day and try to be a better person? Hell NO! But even after all that, I''m still friends with you."

    Raelle continued to look into his eyes before she nodded in agreement, "Stay the amazing person you are."

    Cloe was stunned speechless. Her boss not only didn''t get angry, she actually said those words. In her mind, Raelle''s meaning was clear, ''Stay the amazing person you are, so we can stay as friends.''

 Chapter 59 - Ego Over Brother

    While the temperature of Raelle''s office had warmed up a little, Shui Xian''s surroundings were bing chilly with each passing second.

    His assistant, Ma Jin felt like he was standing on thorns. He hadn''t taken a breather since the morning. For some reason, his boss was more passionate about his work than usual. As if he was hell-bent on doing the work of a year''s worth today.

    "Master Xian, your sister is calling," Ma Jin entered the office to inform. "Apparently, she can''t reach you on your cellphone. So, she called me instead."

    Shui Xian didn''t even lift his eyes as he said, "If she can''t reach me that means I don''t want to talk to her."

    "So, what should I say to her?" he asked cautiously. Usually, he''d be tactful regarding such things but right now the concerned person was his boss'' one and only sister. How was he supposed to interpret Shui Xian''s words?

    "Should I write a dictation for you?"

    "I''ll let her know that you''re busy," said Ma Jin and was about to turn when he heard Shui Xian''s voice.

    "There is no need to make any excuse. Tell her honestly that I don''t want to talk to her."

    Ma Jin was stunned to his ce for a minute. It took him a while to nod in a daze. But even after he came out of Shui Xian''s office, he was in disbelief. Did he hear it right? Or was there something wrong with his hearing? Maybe he was having hallucinations.

    There was a reason why he was in a tight spot. He knew how cold his Master Xian could get but he had always been very warm to his family members. Especially to his sister whom he doted on so much.

    Now he was wondering what did Young Miss Shui Sying do to incite her elder brother like that?

    However, it wasn''t his concern, so he simply called back Shui Sying and told her, "Young Miss, I apologize but it seems Master doesn''t want to talk to you."

    The girl on the call shouted, "Are you telling me, my brother is avoiding me?"

    Ma Jin cleared his throat and replied honestly, "No, it seems to me like he''s ignoring you."

    *Crash!*

    Ma Jin put the phone away from his ear when he heard something breaking from the other end. He really didn''t know how two Shui siblings were poles apart. One was calm like a sea, and the other was the tornado. While Shui Xian''s emotions would always stay concealed behind his cold demeanor, Shui Sying''s emotions were written all over her face. Always!

    Especially her bad temper! She didn''t have the elegance of a Young Miss but definitely had the arrogance of one.

    "Tell him to talk to me or else I''lle to see him at thepany," Shui Sying tried to use a different approach.

    Since Shui Xian had already told him that he won''t be talking to his sister, even Ma Jin knew what would happen if she came here. "I''ll suggest you not to do that. It''ll be counterproductive for you."

    "Stop lecturing me!"

    "Yes, Ma''am!"

    The phone hung up and only then he managed to breathe a sigh of relief. But it made him very curious now. What could Shui Sying do to make Master Xian ignore her?

    And he wasn''t wrong, something did happen. Shui Xian had always been giving in to his sister. But it was the first time, he had requested her to do something for his sake. He just wanted her to join him and Raelle on that family dinner on the day of their marriage. But she didn''t show up.

    Since she chose her ego above her brother, why should he choose her? It was time for her to learn that he wasn''t a pushover!

    *Knock!*

    "Master Xian, would you like to have something for lunch?" inquired Ma Jin with a polite smile on his face.

    "Did Ruan Meiline back?"

    Hearing Shui Xian''s monotonous voice, Ma Jin instantly replied, "Not yet. Due to some unforeseen circumstances, she''ll have to stay in City S for another week. The negotiations are taking a little longer than expected." He silently observed Shui Xian''s expressions orck of it before asking, "If you have any instructions for her, you can let me know."

    Shui Xian took a pause and asked, "What about the investigation I told you to do?"

    Ma Jin stepped inside the office and hurriedly provided the details he learned, "As you had suspected, there had been plenty of backdoor deals happening between the content creators on our tform and the administrators behind the scene. Even in the recent year-end awards, the points had been manipted by the staff. When some other live streamers tried to bring this issue to light, they''d been shunned and suppressed by the staff."

    Shui Xian suddenly stood up and took his coat jacket saying, "Let''s go then."

    "Where?"

    "To the SK Network. Even though it''s just one subsidiary of Shui Conglomerate, I won''t let them y me for a fool." Ma Jin gulped at Shui Xian''s cold but monotonous voice. "Call an urgent meeting. We are doing some cleaning up today."

    Watching Shui Xian''s receding back, his assistant shed some silent tears in his heart and also took out his phone to text his girlfriend to not wait for her, his boss was gonna make him work overtime again. At this rate, he''d soon end up breaking up and the culprit would be his boss! It hadn''t even been a month since he started dating though.

    ....

    The meeting room in the SK Network building had been intense since their boss showed up. It was very rare for them to see Master Xian in person since SK Network was only a subsidiary. And it wasn''t even as important to him. He would only receive a monthly written report from thispany every month.

    But this time, he showed up himself. And he came with a bigger agenda.

    From lunchtime till the evening, all the department heads and higher-ups had been stuck in this tense atmosphere. Master Xian wasn''t here to listen to excuses. He was here just to clean up everything or everyone.

    As he rubbed his forehead, his eyes fell on his watch and his eyes widened slightly. It was over 8 o''clock now. His lips parted slightly. Hepletely forgot that he was supposed to go back home on time now.

    He was supposed to have dinner with his wife. It was their first dinner at their home after the marriage. He was so engrossed in his work that hepletely forgot that now he did have someone to go back to.

    "Let''s continue this tomorrow," he hurriedly stood up and rushed out of the meeting room leaving everyone befuddled.

    Just a minute ago, Master Xian looked like he was nning on spending his whole night here. And now, he just left? Just like that?

    The person who was most confused was Ma Jin who wasn''t even given any instruction. What just happened?

 Chapter 60 - Dinner With Her Spouse

    Meanwhile, on Raelle''s side...

    It was half-past six o''clock and Raelle Xiang was still in her office. Cloe knew she was expecting too much when she thought that perhaps, her boss would now go back home on time. After all, she was married now, shouldn''t she be eager to get back home to her husband? Who knew this leopard wasn''t willing to change her spots?

    But then again, she couldn''t even imagine her boss leaving everything just to go home to apany her husband as well. Wouldn''t that be a real shocker of her life?

    Cloe patted her chest as she thought to herself, ''The key to a sessful rtionship is to expect less. Even in a boss and an employee rtionship, one should expect less. That''s the only way we can stop disappointing each other.'' She tried to console herself in this way but it didn''t work this time. It usually worked though. Why wasn''t it working today?

    She wanted to wail now. She had so much nned for tonight. She was nning on developing the photo she took with Hyson and get it framed to hang in her apartment. All the albums she ordered were also delivered, she also nned on decorating her room with all those posters. But now...

    All her ns were gonna drown in the sea made of her tears. Bitter tears!

    Sniffling, she ced the file on Raelle''s desk.

    "Did you catch a cold?" asked Raelle.

    "No," grumbled Cloe.

    "Then stop sniffling," said Raelle.

    Cloe opened her mouth to say something but chose not to say anything in the end. Although she admired Hyson, she really couldn''t follow in his footsteps. He was daring before Raelle, she couldn''t do the same. If she tried to follow in his footsteps, her steps might falter and she''d end up in her own grave; face t!

    As she left Raelle''s office, a ringtone rang out in the silent office where only the sound of typing could be heard earlier. Raelle looked at the phone screen and picked up the call before putting it on speaker.

    "Elle, are you home?" came Mu Chenyan''s sweet and gentle voice.

    Raelle replied honestly, "No. I''ve to finalize somethings so I''m still in the office. Why?"

    "Didn''t I tell you to stop working overtime?" Mu Chenyan''s voice wasn''t as sweet or gentle this time around.

    "Yeah. And I did as you said. But now, you''re not waiting for me at home," said Raelle inly. "So, why should I go home early?"

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her forehead and groaned, "Elle... My dear Elle... This..." She really didn''t know what to say to her now. "Even if I''m not waiting for you at home, what about your husband?"

    Raelle''s fingers stopped typing as she asked, "Are you saying that my husband is waiting for me at home?"

    "No, I''m saying that to build a rtionship, both husband and wife need to make time for each other. Especially in your case, the more you''ll spend time with Xian, the more you''ll be able to understand him. If you''ll give him the importance, he''ll also do it for you." Raelle was silent as she contemted her words. "You both need to enjoy each other''spany. For that, you need to build a friendship. You have been the most honest person in your life. Don''t forget to be sincere about your marriage."

    "I understand," said Raelle without any arguments. "But... What do I need to do now?"

    Mu Chenyan chuckled at her question, "Go home and have dinner with your husband. That''s the least you can do in your busy day for him."

    Raelle nodded her head and stood up as she picked up the phone, she said, "Alright. I''m leaving now." She closed the lid of herptop, cleared up her desk, and took some documents with her before walking out of the office.

    Walking past Cloe''s cabin, she asked, "Cloe, want to have fun?"

    Cloe shuddered just hearing that question. What was the idea of fun for Raelle Xiang? She knew it very well! In fact, she knew it so well that she never wanted to have any kind of fun with her boss. Someone always got sacked whenever she wished to have fun. And not in a good way.

    Just thinking about Raelle''s past history with the word, ''Fun'', she instinctively shook her head.

    Raelle shrugged her shoulders and said, "Then you can work overtime. I''m going home. Enjoy yourself."

    Cloe fell off her chair before she stumbled up as she cried out, "No! Chief, I want to have fun! I do. I want to have all the fun."

    Raelle stepped closer to her and gave her a look, "You should know I don''t offer the same thing twice." Cloe''s face fell as she went on, "So, have fun working now." She even had the time to wave goodbye to Cloe as she got into the elevator making the poor girl want to puke blood right now.

    Cloe ced her hand on the wall and hit her head against it as she rebuked herself, "Idiot, Cloe! What did you do? You ruined your own chance to go home early! Argh!"

    However, as soon as she came back to her desk, she found a sticky note that said, ''After emailing me the meeting minutes, go home!''

    Cloe continued to stare at those words for a long time in silence before a smile graced her lips. She didn''t even know when Raelle had ced it here. It must have been when she fell down her chair. She shook her head to herself. This boss of hers was truly out of her understanding.

    On the other hand, Raelle got inside the car and her personal chauffeur started up the car. She picked up her phone to see what time it was. It was already 7 o''clock now. She wondered if Xian hade home by now? Since she didn''t know about his schedule, it was hard to say if he was back or not.

    Either way, she needed to have dinner with her spouse tonight just as her Yanyan had said.

 Chapter 61 - Persumed Dead

    On the other hand, when Mu Chenyan hung up the phone, she looked really exhausted. Raising a genius like Raelle wasn''t an easy job. Because she was just as much a fool as much as she was a genius. It was not only tiring to talk to her but also very difficult. However, Mu Chenyan never thought it like that.

    She was true to her words when she said that Raelle was only special. Only she knew how much special Raelle was to her. And that''s why no one else could understand her yearning to see that beautiful baby girl of hers to be happy. She knew she couldn''t expect Raelle to be like normal people around her. That''d be too much to ask for.

    However, she did wish to see her getting the happiness she deserved. She was the one who had seen Raelle struggling to be a part of this society. Because of her differences, she had to put effort more than a normal person to try to fit in. Although it seemed like Raelle didn''t care about fitting in with the rest of the people but it wasn''tpletely true.

    If it was true, why would she try so hard to read people''s bodynguage to understand their emotions? She had studied humans in such detail that even a single frown on someone''s face, she would be able to interpret it perfectly. People called her an insensitive person, so she tried to be sensitive to her surroundings.

    "Was she still at the office?"

    Mu Chenyan''s daydreaming was broken short when she heard Grandfather Xiang''s voice. She stayed silent in reply but he understood her meaning which made him sigh heavily.

    "It was my fault to expect too much from her," said Grandfather Xiang.

    "Elder Xiang, don''t say it like that," Mu Chenyan would usually never talk back to Grandfather Xiang since she respected him the most in her life but whenever it was about her Raelle, she would shot back at anyone. Raelle was her reverse scale and even Grandfather Xiang knew it. "Our Raelle needs some time to get used to it all."

    "You just have to take her side, eh?" he questioned with an arched brow.

    Mu Chenyan lowered her eyes and hesitated before saying, "If I won''t do it, who would?" She took a pause and added, "You''re always giving her a hard time."

    Grandfather Xiang gaped at her in disbelief, "I''m giving her a hard time?"

    "Well, you do have quite some high expectations from her," said Mu Chenyan. "She is amazing but she also needs some time to understand new things. Especially, rtionships. She is also having a hard time."

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head at her words. He also knew that. He looked carefully at Mu Chenyan''s expressions and asked, "What are you thinking about?"

    Mu Chenyan bit her bottom lip and hesitated for a long while. "Elder Xiang, do you think it''s because of me that she is having such a hard time?" Grandfather Xiang was stunned to hear her words of doubt. "Do you think she''d have been different if instead of me, she grew up with her mother?"

    "Chenyan!" Grandfather Xiang''s voice raised an octave.

    Mu Chenyan wasn''t fazed by his voice as she continued, "Maybe I didn''t do as good a job in raising her as her parents would have been able to do so."

    Grandfather Xiang beckoned her toe closer. She obediently stepped closer to him and sat down on the stool toe to his level. Grandfather Xiang pulled her ear making her gasp as he said, "Who allowed you to say such nonsense? Should I bring Elle to tell you what kind of a job you have done in raising her?" Mu Chenyan pursed her lips as he went on, "Her mother or both of her parents wouldn''t have been able to do a better job than you. And I warned you, never to speak about them before me."

    Mu Chenyan grumbled, "Just because we don''t talk about them, doesn''t mean they are dead."

    "They are dead," said Grandfather Xiang. "Let them stay dead. Don''t try to resurrect people who had been absent for far too long. Even a missing person is presumed dead after four years of absence. It''s been 24 years now!"

    "Can you let my ear go?" asked Mu Chenyan and he loosened the grip on her ear. She rubbed her ear before saying, "Technically, Ge had been wanting to meet her, it''s you who didn''t allow him to."

    "Are you really saying that to me right now?"

    Mu Chenyan looked at him cautiously before saying, "Actually, I''m scared." She came clean. "Since we havee back to this country, I''m scared that Elle would run into them somewhere. That''d be a disaster."

    "With her personality, do you really think she''ll cause a disaster?" inquired Grandfather Xiang. "Even if she causes a disaster, aren''t you gonna be here to clean up her mess for her?"

    Mu Chenyan smiled slightly, "Right. I''m always here for her. How can I let anyone hurt her?"

    Grandfather Xiang chuckled at her, "If you love her this much, stop doubting your value in her life. The only rtionship she understands the most is the one she has with you. Aside from her books, she believes in you the most."

    Mu Chenyan had a sad smile on her face, "Maybe that''s why I''m scared of losing her." She walked a little farther away from Grandfather Xiang before adding, "But I do wish to see her learn about her parents."

    Grandfather Xiang red at her, "I don''t want to. Neither does she!"

    "Why don''t you ask for her opinion?" suggested Mu Chenyan. "It''s her parents after all."

    "Why don''t you do it?" shot back Grandfather Xiang.

    Mu Chenyan''s smile stiffened, "Thest time I tried to tell her that her parents love her, she didn''t talk to me for a whole week. I don''t dare bring them up before her again."

    "If you do remember her reaction, don''t ever bring it up!"

    Saying that he maneuvered her wheelchair and left her alone. Mu Chenyan looked at his back, and sighed out, "His temper is still as bad as before. And then he asks why our Elle is so entric."

 Chapter 62 - As My Daughter Say

    When Raelle reached home, Shui Xian hadn''t arrived yet. She only found Shui Koshing on the veranda where he was leaning into his rocking chair as he kept smiling while looking at something on his iPad.

    Raelle took a moment before calling out to him, "B¨¤, what are you doing outside?"

    Shui Koshing lifted his head and smiled at Raelle, "Oh, you''re back!" Raelle gave him a nod and he went on, "I was waiting for you both." He looked behind her and seeing that only she was here, he was a bit disappointed. This son of his was really something! "Let''s go inside first. It''s cold here."

    Raelle followed behind him but couldn''t help saying, "So, it wasn''t cold when you''re sitting there?"

    Shui Koshing shook his head, "That''s the least I can do." He took a pause and asked, "Did you have your dinner?"

    "Oh, not yet," replied Raelle. "What about you? Have you had your dinner?"

    Shui Koshing smiled at her, "I have. My son''s strict orders are to have dinner on time. I can''t go against him."

    Raelle looked at him, "Are you afraid of your son?"

    "Oh, I''m very scared of him," replied Shui Koshing. "How can I not be? He is very inflexible. Always telling me to eat on time, sleep on time, and take care of my health. He is so demanding that it''s tiring."

    Raelle thought about his words and nodded to herself, "Doesn''t that make him a very caring person? And he does it for your own good."

    He smiled at her in reply and said, "Wow! You''re already taking your husband''s side."

    Raelle shrugged her shoulders, "I don''t take sides though." She looked at the books on the coffee table in the lounge, she inquired, "Were you reading that?"

    "Hmm..." he hummed in response.

    "Do you read a lot?" Since it was something she enjoyed, she obviously had plenty to ask as well.

    Shui Koshing sat down in the lounge as he replied, "Yes! Since I''m the most useless one in this house." Raelle also took a seat as she listened to his attentively. "Even the antique pieces have a purpose in this house. They are here to add a charm in the ambience. But me?" He pointed at himself and sighed, "I do nothing every day. I justze around! That''s why I''m trying to broaden my horizon with books."

    Raelle didn''t agree with what he said. Since she didn''t agree, she''d say it outright as well, "Just like everything has its own value here, you do as well." Shui Koshing''s brows arched up in surprise. He was trying to make her smile with that nonsense, why did she look so serious? "You''re the elder of this family." Shui Koshing''s eyes widened as he was left stunned by her response. "Everything in this house can be bought with money. You''re irreceable. Doesn''t that make you the most valuable part of this family?"

    For a long moment, Shui Koshing was left staring at her in silence. He didn''t know how her brain worked but he found it quite beautiful. And he also didn''t know why her words touched his heart so deeply that even tears had brimmed up in his eyes.

    Perhaps she didn''t even realize what impact her words had.

    He suddenly chuckled as he looked at her face with gentle eyes and said, "Our Elle is truly a beautiful person; inside and out."

    Raelle neither agreed nor disagreed with his words. She often didn''t know how to react to suchpliments. Usually, people had something entirely different to say about her, So, she chose to divert from this topic, "B¨¤, you don''t go out to hang out with friends?"

    "Do you have friends, Elle?" he asked in return instead of answering her.

    "I think I do," she replied. "There is one jerk who ims to be my best friend."

    Shui Koshing smiled at her, "Then I wish your best friend never turns into a stranger. Because when that happens, it really leaves a bitter taste in your life."

    "So, you don''t have friends?"

    "All of them have different priorities now," he replied. "That''s why I used to get so bored as well all alone. We drifted away with time."

    "Are youmenting?" She questioned.

    He shook his head, "I''m just saying that''s why I made books mypanion. It truly opened a whole new world for me."

    Raelle understood that very well. That was something she was deeply familiar with. "Indeed, books are the bestpanions."

    "I knew you''d agree with me," said Shui Koshing. He took a pause and went on, "By the way, I''m sorry about my son. He gets so lost in work that he loses the sense of time."

    "Why are you apologizing?" Raelle didn''t think he needed to say that. "It''s not even a big deal. I forget time and ce while working as well." She looked carefully at him and added, "Besides, the one who iste is your son, there is no need for you to defend him."

    "I''m d that you''re very understanding," said Shui Koshing.

    "That''s the first time someone said I''m understanding," she muttered to herself. "Anyway, since you have nothing to do every day, why don''t you go over to see my grandfather? You can y board games with him."

    Shui Koshing was suddenly enlightened, "Oh, why didn''t I think about this? I can actually go over to spend time with Uncle Xiang. That''s such a good idea."

    Raelle smiled at him, "And please, next time, don''t wait outside. It was so cold, what if you got sick?"

    "But I liked doing it," replied Shui Koshing. "I suddenly have something to look forward to every evening. Don''t take that away from me."

    Raelle was suddenly reminded of Mu Chenyan. She also used to say that waiting for her every evening gave her a reason to look forward to something.

    "Then you can do it inside as well," said Raelle. "There is no need to literally wait at the door."

    Shui Koshing chuckled softly and nodded, "Alright. I''ll do as my daughter say."

 Chapter 63 - Future Planning

    It was close to 10 o''clock by the time Shui Xian managed to arrive home. Although he left much earlier, he was stuck in a traffic for so long. He knew the n to have dinner with his wife had already failed. But he still hoped to find her awake.

    He took off his coat in the foyer and gave it to the attendant who was waiting upon him at the side. He changed into slippers as he asked, "Where is B¨¤? Is he asleep?"

    "Umm... No," replied the maid. "Elder Master is with the Mistress."

    Shui Xian raised his brows, "Where?"

    The maid replied, "They are upstairs."

    Shui Xian frowned but silently ascended the stairs. He was wondering why his father was awake at this time and was also with his wife. Just as he reached the top of the stairs, he could hear his father''s voice...

    "Do you have a gun?"

    "I found an AWM."

    He heard Raelle voice and grew curious as he hurried his steps.

    "Woah! That''s the best sniper rifle!" Shui Koshing said. "Howe you always manage to pick up the best weapons?"

    "Because I don''t pick the low-quality ones," she replied candidly. She would never settle for the less in anything in her life!

    "The circle is gonna close soon, let''s run," said Shui Koshing.

    "Okay!"

    Shui Xian''s presence wasn''t even noticed by both his father or his wife. He hade to stand behind the couch they were sitting on but no one noticed his presence. How would they notice it when their attention had been on some sniper game on their mobiles?

    Both Shui Koshing and Raelle were indeed ying a game right now. With their team of two, they seemed to be having quite some fun running on this ground of battle. Shui Xian was impressed to see how skilled Raelle seemed. He wasn''t as surprised about his father since he knew his father had been trying to find anything and everything to cure his boredomtely.

    He found it quite ironic though. Back in middle school, he was beaten by his father for ying games at the inte cafe. And now, at this age, he was doing the same. However, he couldn''t evenin about it. He knew how lonely his father had been feeling.

    Shui Koshing stood up in excitement, "We won! We won again! Hahaha!" He looked at Raelle saying, "I''m never picking a random teammate online ever again. None of theme close to our Elle''s level. Everyone I found online had been a spicy chicken. Each spicier than the previous one."

    Raelle stared at his face in confusion, "Spicy chicken? B¨¤, were you making a food delivery for spicy chicken?"

    Shui Xian chuckled from behind hearing her question while Shui Koshing was just looking at her face as she looked back at him with those innocent eyes of hers. But finally noticing his son''s presence, his gaze sharpened.

    However, Shui Xian didn''t notice as he leaned down to tell Raelle, "Spicy chicken is an inte ng for ''rubbish/trash''. B¨¤ was trying to say he never met any good teammate online."

    "Oh," she responded in understanding. There was a lot of inte ng in this country that she didn''t understand yet. She wasn''t an inte person, to begin with. But soon, her eyes focused on Shui Xian as she waved, "Hi, Hubby! Wee home!"

    Shui Xian was frozen for a moment when she greeted him like that before smiling softly in reply.

    "Son," called out Shui Koshing with a gentle smile that didn''t seem right to Shui Xian. "Come with me for a minute."

    Shui Xian smiled at Raelle before following his father to a side. Shui Koshing extended his hand and someone ced a cane on his hand. He lifted it as if he was gonna hit Shui Xian.

    "B¨¤, how can you hit me at this age?"

    Shui Koshing wasn''t really gonna hit anyway. So, he put the cane down as he said, "Even I''m ashamed to hit you at this age. Aren''t you ashamed? Asking for a beating at this age?"

    Shui Xian was really surprised, "You haven''t hit me since middle school. Lately, you even act cautious while talking to me. What changed today?"

    "Why are you sote?" questioned Shui Koshing.

    "I got stuck in traffic," replied Shui Xian.

    "That''s the worst excuse ever!"

    "That''s not an excuse," said Shui Xian in his defense. "Anyway, what''s up with this cane? You don''t even need it for walking."

    Shui Koshing looked at the cane he had gotten for himself a while ago and replied, "This is called future nning."

    Shui Xian stared at his father, "What kind of future nning is this?"

    "When you''ll reach my age, you''ll understand," said Shui Koshing. "And don''t try to distract me. I''m really angry with you. My daughter has been waiting for you for so long. She didn''t even have dinner yet because she wanted to have it with you."

    Shui Xian was stunned to his ce for a moment. "What?" He was in disbelief. He really thought that she''d have already had dinner by now. He never expected her to wait for him. He didn''t even want her to wait for him for so long. "She didn''t even have dinner yet and you''re making her y games with you?"

    Shui Koshing squinted his eyes at his son, "I was apanying her while she waited for you. I didn''t want her to get bored on her own."

    "You''re apanying her or she was apanying you?"

    Shui Koshinng avoided his son''s eyes. He definitely wasn''t gonna tell his son that he had been very happy during this time. He really enjoyed his time with his daughter-inw.

    Shui Xian shook his head and said, "You should be sleeping right now. That''s what your doctor said."

    Shui Koshing sighed, "There you go again. Acting like I''m not your father but rather you''re my father."

    "B¨¤," Shui Xian called out.

    "I''m going," said Shui Koshing and turned back to walk back to Raelle. "Elle, let''s do it again some time. Have a good night!"

    "Good night, B¨¤!" she said to him with a smile.

 Chapter 64 - Right & Wrong

    After sending his father away, Shui Xian turned his attention towards his wife who was looking back at him currently. He walked up to her side and Raelle had to tilt her head up to look at him since she was still sitting on the couch while he was standing right in front of her with his hands in his pockets.

    He slowly bent forward at his waist with the legs and torso kept straight. He looked into her ck orbs and said in a level, "I heard you didn''t have dinner yet."

    "Hm." Was her only response.

    "Why?" He further probed.

    "Because I was waiting for you," she replied straightforwardly.

    "But you didn''t have to," he assured her.

    Raelle nodded her head, "I think I had to." He furrowed his brows slightly and she went on, "After all, I came home to have dinner with you." She wasn''t lying. If she wasn''t told to have dinner with him, why else would she leave her office earlier than usual?

    Shui Xian was left staring into her eyes for a while in silence before he stood straight and called out, "Reheat the dinner. We''ll be right down."

    "Yes, Master Xian!"

    Shui Xian looked back at her and said, "Give me a moment. I''ll join you for dinner."

    Raelle nodded and watched him rushing upstairs to freshen up with his long legs. She didn''t have to wait long before he showed up and offered his hand to her. Raelle didn''t hesitate before taking his hand and following him downstairs to the dinner table.

    All the food had been reheated and served on the table. As they sat down to eat, Shui Xian started, "I''m sorry for making you wait so long. I know you like to do things on time, I''ll do my best it doesn''t happen again."

    Raelle looked at him carefully before saying, "What are you apologizing for? For beingte?" Shui Xian nodded his head. "Why? You must be busy with work. I can''t possibly me you for that."

    Shui Xian bit his bottom lips before replying, "Don''t be so understanding. I''ll feel guiltier otherwise."

    Raelle said in a soothing tone, "But that''s one of the things I can understand. Work is obviously important."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips, "But I''ve learned in my life that wife is more important."

    Raelle offered him a smile and said with simple directness, "And I was told that it''s important for a husband to work otherwise, how else will he be able to raise his wife?" Shui Xian stared at her without blinking as she continued, "You need work to raise a wife. And you need a wife to have a life. Marriage is amitment, but so is your work. Now, tell me what is more important?"

    Shui Xian chuckled silently at her before saying, "I don''t think we can choose between the two. But I do know that it''s wrong to be unfair to either. I mean mymitment to work is from 9 to 5, and the time after that is supposed to be my wife''s. And if I''m giving that time to my work instead of her, that means I''m cheating on her." He took a pause to look at her as he added, "That''s why I said I''m sorry. I''m sorry for giving your time to work."

    Raelle tilted her head a little as she contemted his words carefully in her head. Now that he put it this way, she realized he wasn''t wrong either. Since marriage and work are bothmitments, both should have equal rights as well! It was as simple as that.

    She nodded to herself and asked, "So, how are you gonnapensate me?"

    "Huh?"

    "What? Are you expecting to get out of this with a simple apology?" She questioned. "That''s not how it works."

    Shui Xian put his chopstick down and stood up to go over to sit beside her. He brushed her hair away from her forehead before softly pressing his lips against it. Then he ced his forehead against her as the tips of their noses brushed together softly.

    Raelle continued to stare into his eyes as she said, "Is that supposed to be mypensation?"

    His hand against the side of her cheek, caressed it gently as he chuckled saying, "No. It was not yourpensation." He pulled away and held her hand, "I promise that I''ll do my best toe back home on time. But if I do ever gette for some unforeseen reason, please have your dinner without me."

    "Then you''d have to eat alone," she said.

    "I''m used to it," he replied.

    "That was before you had a beautiful wife like me," she retorted.

    Shui Xian''s lips curved up into a smile as he said, "Did you just call yourself beautiful?"

    "Why? You think I''m not beautiful?" she questioned in return.

    "No, I think you''re gorgeous. I was just asking to confirm whether I heard you right or not." He touched the tip of her nose with his index finger as he said, "Anyway since my wife is so beautiful, I''d like it if she takes care of her own self rather than waiting for me. I have no problem with eating alone."

    Raelle thought about his words before saying, "But isn''t it a very simple thing?" Shui Xian raised his brow as she went on, "I mean waiting costs me nothing. I''m a patient person, I think I can wait for my husband. Besides, I had a good time waiting for you." She took a pause to observe his expressions before adding, "Also, the book said that husband and wife should have at least two meals together to build a strong foundation. And it also said that a rtionship is a two-way street, and husband and wife should try to meet somewhere in the middle."

    Shui Xian touched his forehead, "Which book said that?" Raelle showed him the title of the book on her phone screen. It read, ''36 Ways Leading To A Happy Marriage; Beginner''s Guide.'' Shui Xian stared at that title for longer than necessary before he ced his hand on her head. "Wife, life doesn''te with a handbook. And neither does a rtionship."

    "I know," she replied. "But there is no harm in learning either. It might not tell us what we''re doing wrong but it can tell us what we can do right."

 Chapter 65 - Pocket Money

    Shui Xian really thought he was getting worse and worse at talking day by day. But that was only when he was around her. He was very good at talking and he knew it. But the same couldn''t be said that when she was the person before him. Howe he barely had anything to say before her? Her words weren''t asplicated as one would think, but her simple words were dangerous. And her words always made him think.

    Her bookish knowledge wasn''t that easy to challenge. That was for sure!

    They ate the rest of the dinner in silence. Shui Xian didn''t try to force her again. Since he couldn''t convince her to not wait for him, he could only make sure toe back home on time; not giving her the reason to wait.

    Back in their room, Raelle was applying moisturizer on her hands when she heard Shui Xian''s question, "When do you usually leave the office?"

    Raelle turned her head to look at him, "Why? You''re gonnae to pick me up?" That was something Cloe had mentioned to her today in the office whether her husband wasing to pick her up or not. Raelle didn''t know why her husband had to do that since she had her own car and personal chauffeur. But Cloe argued that that''s what husbands would do for their wives.

    He narrowed his eyes slightly, "What if I am going to do that?"

    Raelle raised her hand as if telling him to stop, "Wouldn''t that be troublesome? Ourpanies are literally in the opposite direction. You''d really be wasting your time." She meant her wordspletely. What was the point of wasting so much time? If they had theirpanies on the same route, it''d be a different story.

    Shui Xian shook his head at her, "Somehow I just knew you''d say that... Anyways I just thought if I know when you get free, I''d be able to adjust my time ordingly."

    Raelle stared at his face intently, "You''re gonna work around my schedule?" Shui Xian nodded his head and she asked, "Why?"

    Shui Xian replied, "Didn''t you say that marriage is a two-way street? We both need to give our 100 % to make it work."

    Raelle rubbed her hands together and replied in a t tone, "Be realistic. Giving your 100 percent doesn''t make a rtionship. Let''s go with the 80/20 rule." Shui Xian arched his brow in question and she borated, "You can''t provide me with that 100 percent that I need in my life, same goes for me. So, let''s not expect unrealistic things from each other. Let''s just give each other the 80 percent what the other needs in a rtionship."

    "What about the rest of 20 percent?" he inquired.

    "The rest of 20 percent is something we need to look for our own selves." Her leveled tone didn''t falter as she went on, "That''d be the best partnership."

    "Are you writing a contract for a partnership?"

    "Aren''t we partners?" Raelle pointed at him and herself. "Partners for life? That red booklet we got the other day is the proof."

    Shui Xian exhaled a long breath and rubbed his earlobe as his lips curved up, "We are... Partners for life." In her own calctive and extremely pragmatic way, she managed to remind him that you can''t always be 100 percent of what your partner needs. That''d be over-romanticizing a rtionship and expecting somethingpletely unrealistic.

    His previous marriage was solely based on love and his intense feelings. And maybe that''s why it was easy for him now to understand that love had never been enough to keep a rtionship or make it work. That''s why Raelle''s words had been very refreshing since the time he met her.

    He went to get something from his wallet and ced it before her. Raelle looked at the ck credit card before her eyes and looked at his face in confusion. "I''ve added you as an authorized user. So, you can use the card however you like."

    Raelle took the ck credit card in her hands and continued to stare at it for a while in silence. Shui Xian thought she wasn''t happy to receive it. After all, her own earning were no less than his. She didn''t need him to give something like this to her. However, since she was his wife, he wanted to treat her like one. And as his spouse, she had all the right on his money.

    "I know you don''t really need it but I wanted to give it to you," he tried to exin when he noticed that her silence was prolonged. "As my wife, this is one of your rights."

    Raelle looked into his eyes and gave him a smile saying, "Is this supposed to be my pocket money?"

    Shui Xian thought about his reply cautiously before nodding, "Yes."

    "I''ve never gotten pocket money before," she told him. Shui Xian was yet again taken aback by her reaction. "Since whatever I needed, someone would always be there beside me to pay for it. So, this is my first time receiving money like this."

    Shui Xian noticed the look in her eyes and asked, "Are you happy?"

    "To answer that, I need to know what real happiness is. Because my grandfather says all I know is a bookish definition," she didn''t hide it from him. "Until now, the happiness in my definition had been when Opa ces his hand on my head and kisses my forehead. Or when Yanyan helps me inbing my hair or feed me with her own hands. Or when my best friend grumbles about always losing from me."

    "That''s how you define happiness?" he asked.

    "All these instances had something inmon, I felt really good," she told him. "And that is why I associate these instances with happiness." She looked at the credit card in her hand again and said, "I think right now I don''t feel that bad either. So, maybe I am happy."

    He hooked his index finger and traced the bridge of her nose to the tip of her nose lightly with a feather-like touch as he said, "It''s good to know that." And gave her a smile.

 Chapter 66 - Ordering Him Around

    From her words, he gathered another thing about her. She didn''t actually associate the moments with happiness. She associated happiness with just a few people in her life. Either it was her grandfather, Mu Chenyan, or her best friend. All of those people were very special to her and that''s why no matter what they did, she''d associate the meaning of happiness with them.

    The irony was she didn''t even understand it herself.

    Even after ten minutes, Raelle was still looking at the credit card in her hands. There was definitely no change in her expressions but Shui Xian found this scene too cute.

    "You can put it away now," he said.

    Raelle shifted her eyes away from the card and said, "Oh, I should say thank you for this, right?"

    Shui Xian didn''t think there was a need for that but for some reason, he asked, "How are you going to say thank you?"

    Raelle blinked at him nkly before she moved over to his side of the bed and caught him by surprise when she kissed him on his forehead. It was exactly how he had done it earlier during dinner. Softly and gently her lips had made contact with his skin.

    "Is that enough to say thank you?" he arched his brow at her as the corner of his lips curved up in a lop-sided grin.

    "Do you have time tomorrow after work?" she inquired.

    "I''m nning on giving all my time to my wife," he replied. "Why? What are you up to now?"

    "Let''s go shopping tomorrow," she said. "To say my thank you properly, I''ll buy you whatever you want with my new credit card." She even showed him the card that was still in her hand.

    Shui Xian bit his lip before saying, "So, you''re going to buy me a gift with the card I gave you?"

    "You said it''s mine," she retorted. "I''m allowed to do whatever I want to do with it. But if you don''t like the offer..."

    "I like it," he hurriedly spoke out before she could change her mind. "I''ll take the offer."

    Raelle clicked her fingers saying, "That''s more like it."

    Shui Xian smiled to himself watching her as she put the credit card carefully in her cardholder beforeing back to the bed.

    "Wifey..."

    "Yes, hubby!"

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and almost forgot what he wanted to say. It really felt different every time she called him ''Hubby''. He cleared his throat before asking, "Earlier you were ying games with my father."

    "Yeah, what about it?"

    "You seemed quite skilled."

    "That''s because I''ve yed that game before," she answered.

    Shui Xian''s brows raised up in surprise, "Do you have time to y games?"

    "I don''t," she replied honestly. "But Yanyan said games help us in rxing. Also, she added, ying games is better than ying with someone''s emotions. Although I don''t know what she meant by that, I''d still follow her. Whenever. Wherever. However. I''d just follow her."

    "I just didn''t think a book fanatic like you would actually have any interest in games. It really is a surprise." He honestly thought this way. He had seen how much she preferred to spend her time with her books, it was shocking that she''d actually y games as well.

    "Well, although I don''t y games on daily basis, it''s not like I don''t y at all. But I don''t y alone and usually, the one to join me in my gaming adventure is my best friend."

    "I heard a lot about this best friend," started Shui Xian. "When are you introducing us to each other?"

    "He said there is no need for introduction," she told him. "After all, who doesn''t know Master Xian around here?"

    "But I don''t know him," he replied. "So how about you call him out tomorrow? After we are done shopping, he can join us for dinner." He suggested thoughtfully. Since he had already met the two special people in her life, he had been very curious about the third one. To learn all about her, he needed to meet everyone close to her.

    Raelle thought about it before answering, "If he shows up, I''ll have to book the whole restaurant!"

    "Huh? Why?" Shui Xian asked in confusion.

    "He is a celebrity. And he doesn''t want to be seen anywhere with me," she said straightforwardly. "Apparently, my presence is like that dark cloud that overshadows the beauty of a moon-like him." Shui Xian pursed his lips as she went on, "Those are his words." Taking a brief pause to think she added, "He had his mind all over the ce today, so I really should ask him toe out for dinner tomorrow."

    "Yes, you should," replied Shui Xian. He was even more eager to meet this best friend now.

    Raelle nodded her head and took her phone to make a call. Obviously, the other person already had his phone in his hands so he picked up almost instantly, "Is it my lucky day or what? You''re calling me for the second time on the same day! What an honor!"

    "Are you free tomorrow?" Raelle got straight to the point. No, hi or hello was needed neither did she felt the need toment on his nonsensical words.

    "That depends on what do you have in mind?" replied Hyson.

    "Let''s eat dinner together," she told him.

    "I''ve been contemting for an hour whether to ask you toe online so that we can y together because I didn''t want to take up your time with your husband and here you are telling me to go out to eat dinner with you? Shouldn''t you be eating out with him?"

    "If you hadn''t started your lecture I was about to tell you that my hubby will be joining us."

    "Oh..." was all that Hyson responded with. It took him a moment before he asked, "Wait! Are you telling me I''m about to have dinner with Master Xian? As in the real Master Xian? In flesh and blood?"

    "Is there a fake Master Xian as well?" she retorted.

    "Aiya! Innocent kids like you know nothing of this world''s devious ways."

    Hearing himmenting, Raelle was quiet for a minute before she said, "I''ll send you the address, just be there on time."

    And she hung up, leaving Hyson to stare at his phone screen as he said to himself, "Were you asking me out for dinner? Or ordering me around?" Soon, he shook his head and went on, "I shouldn''t expect you to know the difference between the two."

 Chapter 67 - Flaked Out

    "Elder Master, you have a guest."

    Shui Koshing was watering the nts when he was informed by the head steward that he had a guest. Turning his head, a tall silhouette entered his vision that was slowlying towards him. The person was tall with an imposing aura of a military man that warned off people froming close to him.

    Early morning sunlight was shining across his perfectly chiseled face. It added ayer of mystery and charm to his presence. The man walking over was d in a military uniform and the epaulet that was sewn with four stars representing his special ran.

    Shui Koshing smiled widely, "Captain Zhai Yanjun, what a pleasant surprise!"

    "Uncle Shing," the tall man''s voice had a cold touch to it. However, he was very respectful and even his eyes looking at Shui Koshing had a gentle touch to them. "Happy new year!"

    "Aren''t you a little too early?" retorted Shui Koshing as he trudged over to him and patted his shoulder. Obviously, he was being sarcastic with him and thetter didn''t even mind it.

    Instead, Zhai Yanjun lowered his head and apologized, "I apologize for that, Uncle. I was out of the base andter went directly home."

    "There is no need to apologize. You''re busy fighting for our country." Shui Koshing took him inside the house and asked, "I''m just d you found some time to see me. When I first learned 2 years ago that you got promoted to be the Kia District military base''s captain, I really thought I''d see you a lot more. But that just my wishful thinking."

    Zhai Yanjun acted like a kid before him as he replied, "Actually, even today I was forced to make time." Shui Koshing arched his brows inquisitively, "Grandpa sent some home-brewed peach wine for you along with his wishes for the new year."

    Zhai Yanjun''s grandfather had been a friend of Shui Koshing''s father. And even though his father was now dead, his friends never stopped checking up on him. Either it was Raelle''s grandfather or Zhai Yanjun''s grandfather, they both showed their care in their own ways.

    "Say thanks to Uncle Feiyang and tell him, he really doesn''t have to do it every year."

    Zhai Yanjun replied inly, "I can''t say that to him. You''d have to do it yourself. It''s not like he''d listen though." His steps were neither rushed nor slow, he had an even pace as Shui Koshing directed him towards the dining table.

    "Now that you are here, I won''t let you leave without having breakfast," was what Shui Koshing insisted on.

    Zhai Yanjun didn''t refuse to him.

    "Good morning, B¨¤!"

    As soon as they entered the dining hall, Zhai Yanjun heard Raelle greeting Shui Koshing. And Shui Koshing''s face lit up seeing his daughter-inw.

    "Good morning!" replied Shui Koshing. "Have a seat, Ah-Yan!"

    Zhai Yanjun had been staring at Raelle''s face from the moment he took a step inside. However, unlike him, Raelle''s attention was solely on Shui Koshing. Well, at least until he specifically called Zhai Yanjun to take a seat at the table. But more than his face, her eyes were on the specific insignia on his shoulder.

    "Where is Xian?"

    "He will be down in ten minutes," replied Raelle.

    While Raelle wasn''t curious to know who Zhai Yanjun was, he was certainly very curious. "She is...?"

    "Oh, she''s my daughter-inw," informed Shui Koshing with pride and joy quite palpable on his face and in his voice. "Raelle..."

    "Xiang." Zhai Yanjun ended up cutting him off as he stared at Raelle in a strange way. "So, you''re Raelle Xiang."

    "I didn''t know I was this famous," said Raelle as she crossed her arms against her chest.

    Zhai Yanjun''s eyes narrowed slightly. "Zhai Yanjun. Does the name not ring a bell?"

    Raelle looked at his face, she was certain she hadn''t met him before. If she did, she''d remember it. But his name... That was a different thing entirely. "You''re the guy who ked out on our blind date!"

    Zhai Yanjun was taken aback by how straightforwardly she just said that out loud. "I failed to keep our appointment but I still sent you a letter to apologize for that." He said in his defense.

    "Failed to keep the appointment?" she repeated. "You never nned on showing up. How can I forget you? You''re the only guy who broke up with me before the date could even start. And that too by sending me a letter that read, ''I already have someone special in my life.'' That''s quite memorable."

    "Elle, did you go out on a date with him?"

    Raelle looked at Shui Koshing and shook her head, "He was the first blind date my Opa organized for me when you moved here. But this man never showed up. And he even used the worst of a worst excuse to reject me."

    "That wasn''t an excuse," Zhai Yanjun chimed in. "I do have a girlfriend. No, I mean I did at the time." Then he added, "Besides, isn''t it all good now? Since I didn''t show up, you got to meet the love of your life. Congrattions on your marriage!" He looked at Shui Koshing and went on, "And Uncle Shing, you didn''t even invite me to the wedding. Grandpa would have loved toe."

    "We didn''t hold any ceremony," said Shui Koshing. "But we''ll n a reception whenever both of them are free. I''m definitely gonna invite your grandfather."

    Zhai Yanjun offered Raelle a smile as he said, "It''s good to finally meet you in person. Back then I thought about going in person to apologize to you but couldn''t really find the right time."

    Raelle picked up her phone as she told him, "It''s a good thing, you didn''t show up. My assistant was ready to beat you if you ever showed up before her." Raelle''s eyshes fluttered daintily, adding charm to her ck orbs. While she would not feel anything just because he didn''t show up, Cloe had a lot of opinions regarding that.

    The only reason his name was something she could recall so easily was because of the stupid letter he sent her instead ofing himself. If he had shown up like other blind dates, she''d have definitely added him into the delete memory zone of her brain.

 Chapter 68 - Basic Respect

    When Shui Xian hade down, he had heard Raelle and Zhai Yanjun''s conversation. And that blind date stuff reminded him of the very first time he saw her. She was on a blind date even then which didn''t end very well. Not only didn''t end well, but it also left a bitter taste on his tongue even though he was just a bystander at that time.

    "Hi, Xian!"

    Zhai Yanjun was the first person to notice Shui Xian who gave him a small nod in acknowledgment. He came to sit right beside his wife.

    "Haven''t seen you in a long time," Shui Xian said to Zhai Yanjun.

    Raelle pointed at Zhai Yanjun as she asked, "Hubby, is he your friend?"

    Shui Xian looked at Zhai Yanjun and shook his head in reply, "Our grandfathers were friends. That friendship didn''t continue for theter generations. Neither our fathers are friends nor are we." He turned his eyes towards Raelle and went on, "It''s just because of our grandfathers that we know each other."

    "I absolutely agree with that," said Zhai Yanjun. Then he turned to Shui Xian and went on, "Congrattions on getting married! May your love be modern enough to survive the time and old-fashioned enough tost forever!" Shui Xian rolled his eyes mentally at that while he continued, "I feel like I should take some credit for this marriage. If I had shown up for that blind date, who knows whether you had this chance or not."

    Shui Xian gave him a look, "You don''t get any credit at all." Zhai Yanjun''s brows arched up at Shui Xian''s confident look while he went on, "Even if you had shown up back then, my wife would have kicked you out of her life cleanly." And that''s something he was very sure about.

    "Oh?" responded Zhai Yanjun.

    "Hubby is right," Raelle agreed immediately. "All of my blind dates were kicked out by me. I''m an expert at breaking up even before the date could start." She noticed how Shui Xian was about to spread jam on the toast and added, "I want butter today."

    Shui Xian turned his head towards her and asked, "Who said it''s for you?" Raelle continued to look into his eyes and he sighed inwardly before saying, "It is for you. I''ll go with butter."

    Raelle looked satisfied with his reply and leaned back in her chair in a rxed posture. It just took one day for her to get toofortable with having her husband do such a thing for her. And yes, that''s how spoiled she was and the credit for that went to Mu Chenyan.

    "Ah-Yan," called out Shui Koshing when he noticed the shock on Zhai Yanjun''s face at the interaction between Raelle and Shui Xian. "When are you getting married?"

    Zhai Yanjun''s eyes didn''t move away from Shui Xian who was spreading butter on the toast for his wife and replied, "Will I have to do that after marriage?"

    Shui Koshing chuckled softly, "Who knows? Maybe your wife ends up doing it for you."

    Zhai Yanjun waved his hands saying, "I''ll still pass."

    "I guess your girlfriend is still not agreeing to marry you," said Shui Xian as he passed the toast in his hand to Raelle who took it silently.

    Zhai Yanjun narrowed his eyes at Shui Xian and replied, "We broke up!"

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "There is nothing new about that. It''s neither the first time you broke up with her nor it''d be the first time if you both got back together. It''s been going on for years now."

    "I should have never told you about that," said Zhai Yanjun in a low voice. "But this time, we are never ever getting back together! It''s final!"

    "You said the same thing when you''re drunkst time," reminded Shui Xian without a fraction of change in his expressions.

    "You also said you''d never get married again in your whole life at that time," Zhai Yanjun shot back. "What do you have to say about that now?"

    Shui Xian looked at Raelle who seemedpletely unconcerned about their conversation and shook his head at her. She was really focused solely on eating. "I only said it to make you feel better."

    Zhai Yanjun stared at him and repeated, "Make me feel better?" He scoffed, "Your exact words were, ''It''s good that you broke up before it reached the stage of marriage. Trust me, it''d have hurt more if after investing all your feelings, emotions, and time, she''d still say everything you did for her was suffocating her.'' Not only that, you even told me to just date casually. There is no point in expecting too much from anyone."

    Shui Xian licked his lips and feigned a cough as he answered, "Who told you to listen to me, I was also drunk."

    Zhai Yanjun looked at Raelle''s nonchnt expressions as she told Shui Koshing, "B¨¤, we''ll be going out for dinner together. So, we mighte backte. Instead of having dinner alone, you should go over to Opa''s ce."

    "I wouldn''t want to bother, Uncle Tianyu," replied Shui Koshing.

    "I think he''d be more than happy to have you around," said Raelle. "But I won''t force you. It''s still up to you. If you feel like it, you can go over any time."

    Since she was done with her breakfast already, she stood up to leave.

    She said to Shui Xian, "I''ll see you in the evening." He nodded in reply before she turned to Zhai Yanjun and said, "And the guy who ked out on me, it''s good that I finally got to see your face. But I have an advice for you, next time try showing up on a blind date and have the guts to say what you wrote in that letter yourself. That''s the basic respect you can give to the other person who made time for that appointment."

    Shui Xian held up his fist against his mouth to hide his smile. His wife really didn''t go easy on anyone. She didn''t forget to throw a jab at Zhai Yanjun even now for not showing up for that blind date which she wasn''t even interested in herself.

    She took the coat of the red pantsuit that she was wearing from the back of her chair before putting it on her white shirt. Her heels made a tik-tock sound as she left without looking back.

    However, Zhai Yanjun was left staring at her receding back with an unreadable expression.

    "What are you looking at?" asked Shui Xian.

    "Your wife''s face kinda reminds me of someone," answered Zhai Yanjun honestly.

 Chapter 69 - Love Is An Art

    Shui Xian looked at Zhai Yanjun carefully before he asked, "Have you met her before?"

    Zhai Yanjun''s brows furrowed up slightly, "Nope. This is my very first time meeting her. That''s for sure."

    "Then why does she looks familiar to you?" questioned Shui Xian.

    "I didn''t say she looks familiar. I said her face kinda reminds me of someone. That means her features have a striking resemnce to someone I know." He rubbed his chin thoughtfully before adding, "The major difference is that her face is devoid of any expressions, unlike that person."

    Shui Xian grew curious as he heard that and further inquired, "Who does she look like?"

    Before Zhai Yanjun could answer, Shui Koshing interrupted him, "Ah-Yan, let Uncle Feiyang know about Raelle''s grandfather. I''m sure he''d love to visit his old friend."

    Shui Xian gave his father a cursory nce. And that was all it took him to understand that his father had intentionally interrupted them. But why? Did his father already know who Zhai Yanjun was talking about? How?

    Although he had all these questions running through his mind, he didn''t voice out a single one. Since his father had clearly indicated that he didn''t wish for him to continue this topic, he decided to drop it for now. Instead of asking Zhai Yanjun, it was better to ask his father at ater time. Because it seemed his father would be more clear about the whole situation.

    "I think he already knows though," replied Zhai Yanjun. "Grandpa told me he nned to visit here in theing week. I believe he ising to meet his friend."

    Shui Koshing nodded his head in understanding, "I should have known that. Their friendship is still something that can make anyone feel envious. Even though they had been away for so long, they never really grew distant."

    Zhai Yanjun looked at Shui Xian and inquired, "Do you also feel envious of this kind of friendship, Xian?" Shui Xian stared at him intently as he went on, "Oh, right! You''d definitely not be envious. You have exceptional friends. Oh, I mean to say, had."

    "Do you have to specifically point that out?" wondered Shui Xian.

    Zhai Yanjun shrugged his shoulders, "I had to do it. After all, I still believe you had the most amazing group of friends. But it''s you who decided to walk on this lonely road."

    "You never even had friends," Shui Xian shot back. "Why do you care why I chose this lonely road?"

    Zhai Yanjun gave him a small smile as he said, "Maybe that''s why I know how blessed you had been to have found such friends."

    Shui Xian didn''t want to hear it all from Zhai Yanjun. Even though he agreed with what Zhai Yanjun said, he couldn''t bring himself to say it. He couldn''t even refute his words. He indeed had some amazing friends but all of them had been mutual friends of his and his ex-wife. And after his divorce, he just wanted to keep his distance from everyone.

    Besides, he had a lot going on that left him with no time to even contact his old friends like he used to do.

    "It seemed you have had too many arguments with your ex-girlfriend," said Shui Xian out of nowhere.

    Zhai Yanjun was taken aback as he asked, "How do you know that?"

    "You''ve never been this talkative before," answered Shui Xian making Zhai Yanjun''s face twitch. "I guess those arguments trained you well."

    Zhai Yanjun pointed at Shui Xian as he looked at Shui Koshing and asked, "Uncle Shing, what happened to your sweet son?"

    "He is long gone," said Shui Koshing as he sighed out and stood up leaving both of them alone.

    Although Zhai Yanjun and Shui Xian couldn''t really be considered close friends, they still had a very cordial rtionship because of the bond that their families share. And because of that, they could actually freely talk to each other. They didn''t have to put up a facade before each other.

    And since they could talk about personal things, Zhai Yanjun was very clear about what happened between Shui Xian and his ex-wife. In fact, even Shui Xian''s old friends might not be as clear about everything as he was.

    "Xian?"

    "Hm?"

    "Did you fall in love with her?" Shui Xian lifted his brows and nced at Zhai Yanjun. "I mean, you decided to marry her. So, are you in love with her?" Shui Xian shook his head honestly. Zhai Yanjun''s eyes narrowed slightly as he questioned, "Then is she in love with you?"

    Shui Xian put his cup of coffee down as his lips curved up slightly, "Love is an art, Yanjun."

    Zhai Yanjun frowned deeply as he didn''t understand what he was implicating with that sentence. "Yeah, so?"

    Shui Xian gave him a smile that he couldn''t understand, "But it''s a pity that my wife had been a science student all her life." Zhai Yanjun''s brows jumped up as he went on, "She doesn''t seem to have the appreciation for the art of love."

    Zhai Yanjun was confused and he only responded with, "Huh?"

    Shui Xian chuckled very softly at his reaction and said, "Our marriage is not based on love. But somehow I feel like that makes it even more interesting."

    Zhai Yanjun seemed like his whole viewpoint about Shui Xian was changing as he voiced out, "I never thought I would ever hear you say that a loveless marriage is actually interesting."

    "Worry about yourself," said Shui Xian. "You look stressed out because of your breakup again. How many times has it been already? I feel like you''re stuck in a toxic rtionship where you''re neither able to hold on to her nor able to let her go."

    "Aren''t we all a little stressed out because we all want to be happy?" responded Zhai Yanjun. "Besides, if we got everything in life that we desire for, what will we be left with to wish for? Some iplete desires makes us want to wish for something and work for those wishes as well."

    "Captain," started Shui Xian strangely. "This love has really altered your personality. You''re turning into a poetic person."

    Zhai Yanjun shook his head at him and rolled his eyes. He didn''t agree with his words but he didn''t disagree with him either. Whether it was love that brought some change to his personality or something else, who knew for sure? Perhaps, he didn''t know it himself.

 Chapter 70 - Look My Best

    Meanwhile, Raelle''s car had just gotten on the main road when her phone dinged indicating that she had a message. She moved her eyes away from the iPad screen and was about to pick the phone when it dinged again.

    She unlocked the phone and read the two messages that came from the same person.

    Hyson: Video call...

    Hyson: NOW!!!

    Raelle used her iPad to make a video call to him and what greeted her was a mess. Yes, in her view was Hyson''s room that was aplete mess because of how his clothes had been scattered all over his bed.

    Soon, his pitiful face appeared on the screen as he whined, "Ellie, I don''t have anything to wear!"

    "Oh, really?" she responded calmly. "Then put everything behind you on fire!"

    Hyson squinted his eyes at her, "I''m serious."

    "So am I," she replied.

    "Don''t make me regret calling you," warned Hyson.

    "Technically, I''m the one who is calling you," she reminded him kindly.

    "But I''m the one who asked you to do so," he shot back.

    "Whatever!" she ended this stupid topic like that. "Now, would you please enlighten me why are we having this discussion?"

    Hyson groaned in frustration, "As I just said, I have nothing to wear. I''m supposed to have dinner with you tonight and I can''t seem to find appropriate attire for it."

    Raelle looked carefully at his face through the screen and recalled, "Why are you so concerned about that? Don''t forget you even came out to eat with me in shorts and a tank top without even showering!"

    "That''s because it was you," he told her. "This time it''s different. I''m having dinner with you and your husband."

    "The keyword is, ''My Husband'', right?" Hyson nodded his head without any hesitation. "And why are you so concerned about your image before him?"

    "It''s all for you," he put the pot back on her head as if whatever he''d do would all be for her sake. "Your husband should not take your best friend lightly. My image will reflect your image. It''s about our dignity right now!" He took a pause and went on, "We are in this together!"

    Raelle blinked at him nkly, "It''s not even 9 o''clock in the morning yet. Why are you even picking up clothes so early?"

    Hyson tutted at her, "The early bird catches the worm!"

    "Oh," was all she could say to him in reply. She took a pause and added, "Let me give you the same advice you gave to me; close your eyes and pick one. The easiest and simplest solution." Hyson''s lips twitched at her using his tactic back on him. He should have known how she could make his wordse to bite him back. "Don''t worry about my image, because I don''t even worry about it myself." She gave him a look before saying, "Now, scram!"

    With that Hyson''s screen went nk. He had expected her to react like this. Then why the hell did he even ask for her opinion? It was truly like smashing his head against the wall! Self-destructing! And pointless!

    He heard a knock at the door and then heard a voiceing from outside, "Yue Fei, open the door already!"

    Hyson sighed out and unlocked the door letting his roommate enter. Yes, he hade back to the dorm which he shared with his group members. And he even had a roommate.

    When his roommate looked at the mess he had created inside the room, his brows jumped up. "What is all this?"

    "Zhen Ge, I''m confused about what to wear tonight," answered Hyson with a conflicted look in his eyes.

    His roommate, Lin Zhen furrowed his brows slightly before saying, "We don''t have a meeting at thepany neither do we have any schedule for today. Oh, are you going on a date?"

    Hyson gave him a look, "Zhen Ge, we are already suffering enough because one of us went on a date." Lin Zhen sighed out but couldn''t refute his words. "Anyway, I''m still not interested in dating. It''s just that I''m supposed to meet my best friend''s husband for the very first time tonight. I want to look my best."

    Lin Zhen''s gaze at him became even moreplicated, "You want to impress your best friend''s husband? Why?"

    "I don''t want to impress him," replied Hyson. He wasn''t lying. He really didn''t want to impress Shui Xian. No matter how much he admired Shui Xian, it wasn''t enough for him to want to impress him. He really was only thinking about Raelle. As her only best friend, he needed to match her well, no? "As I just that, I just want to look my best."

    Lin Zhen nodded his head. He actually understood that Hyson was insisting on looking his best because he wanted to look good for his best friend. So, he gave his sincere suggestion, "I''ll suggest you not to try so hard though. You look the best in everything. Just ask your fans if you don''t believe me."

    Hyson looked at him straight, "Ge, you''re really not helpful."

    Lin Zhen chuckled, "I''m sorry. I know I''m really not able to help with that. But I can help you in cleaning up this mess that you created."

    Hyson turned him down saying, "There is no need for that. I''ll clean it up myself once I''ve decided what I''m gonna wear."

    Lin Zhen smiled at him, "It''s alright. You know how much I love cleaning anyway. So, it''s not a bother to me all." Of course, Hyson knew that. As much as he was an expert at creating a mess, his roommate was just as much of an expert at cleaning that mess. How the hell did they manage to stay as roommates for so long? "By the way, this mysterious best friend of yours is really special to you, eh?"

    Hyson raised his brows innocently, "How did youe to that conclusion?"

    "Every time, you talk about her, it shows how much importance she has in your life," replied Lin Zhen ording to what he had observed being his roommate for years now.

    Hyson scratched the back of his head as he said, "She is like that sibling that makes you frustrated whether to punch her in the face or squish her in your embrace. She always gives me those conflicting feelings."

    Lin Zhenughed heartily at Hyson''s remark but didn''t say anything in reply. It seemed like this best friend was indeed very special.

 Chapter 71 - Iâ€™m A Nice Person

    "Chief, when should I schedule your visit to the construction site?"

    "Check when I have time in theing week," replied Raelle as she continued to browse through the content of the file in her hands.

    Cloe looked through the scheduler on her iPad before informing Raelle, "You can only spare some time next Friday." She took a pause and added, "And if you want to do the visit earlier than that, you''d have to use up your lunch hour."

    "Not happening," was Raelle crisp reply.

    "I thought so," answered Cloe. "Then I''ll schedule it for next Friday." Since Raelle didn''t refute, she continued to make the entry into the scheduler. Of course, she knew that Raelle would never use up her lunch hour for work. If there was a person who followed the three meals rule diligently that would be her boss.

    Then she ced over six invitation cards on Raelle''s desk as she told her, "These are the invitations you received today." Raelle gave the cards a cursory nce and Cloe went on, "These are the important ones. I have already filtered out the unimportant ones. Which one would you like to go to?"

    Although Raelle had only been to this country for six months, her reputation had followed her for far too long. Who didn''t want to meet President Raelle at least once? Even if she was literally a devil, who would want to give up the chance to cozy up to her? She''d been receiving such invitations on daily basis and it was rare for her to actually pick any event to attend.

    "Just as before, I won''t be attending any of it," replied Raelle calmly.

    "However, you said that it''s better to make acquaintance with a business circle around here. Or at least, people around here should know that you''re someone not to be trifled with. And for that purpose, you''d have to actually make an appearance at such events."

    Raelle gave Cloe a look as she flipped her pen in her hand, "Do you think these non-rted people are important or spending time with my husband is important?"

    Cloe made those invitation cards disappear from before her eyes saying, "Obviously, your husband is more important. I''d deal with all this."

    Raelle thought about it a bit, "Instead of dealing with it, choose any event of your choice, and make an appearance on my behalf."

    Cloe nodded her head in reply, "Yes, Chief." She was done talking but didn''t move from her spot as she continued to stare at Raelle. When thetter lifted her eyshes to gaze at her she added, "I have something important to discuss."

    "If you''re gonna ask for a day off, save it!" was Raelle''s reaction.

    "I already know you wouldn''t give me a day off," responded Cloe, not sounding like her usual self. And only now Raelle looked at her face carefully. She noticed how Cloe didn''t even look like her usual lively self as well. She looked dispirited and adding on those red puffy eyes, she really looked strange.

    "Go and bring me a fresh ginger tea," Raelle said to her after a moment of silent observation.

    "Fresh ginger tea?" echoed Cloe with a frown. "You don''t drink ginger tea."

    "Did I ask for your opinion?" Cloe sighed and left her office to arrange for that ginger tea. After ten minutes when she entered the room with that fresh ginger tea, Raelle looked at her and said, "Sit over there and drink it. It does not only help with the cramps but also helps with that cranky mood."

    Cloe pinched her brows as she sighed at Raelle helplessly but still did as she was told. She took a seat on the couch and leaned back to rx as she sipped on the fresh ginger tea. Soon, Raelle joined her there and she asked, "How did you know?"

    "You only talk back to me when it''s that time of the month for you," replied Raelle as if it wasmon sense to know that. "Besides, I''ve spent about six years with you. Isn''t it enough to learn how your mood swings work?"

    Cloe pressed her lips together and didn''t know what to say. She wanted to say thank you to Raelle for being so perceptive but she knew Raelle wouldn''t appreciate that thank you.

    "So, why did you cry?" inquired Raelle as she continued to observe Cloe''s expressions.

    "My soup was too salty in the morning," answered Cloe with a straight face.

    "Is that something to cry about?"

    Cloe shrugged her shoulders, "My hormones thought it was important enough to cry about."

    "Why do I think there is more to it than just that?"

    Cloe nced at Raelle''s expressionless face and sighed out, "My younger sister called me in the morning."

    "For?"

    "Apparently to make me feel bad about myself," scoffed Cloe. "I mean if you''re having a baby, why do you need to rub it in my face? That might be the milestone of your life at 25 but it wasn''t mine! I''m 28 and it''s still not my milestone!"

    The way her voice raised made Raelle notice that her emotions were surging up. Or should she say her hormones were acting up.

    "If that''s not your milestone in life, why are you letting her words get to you?"

    "Who said her words got to me?" retorted Cloe. "I''m just telling you the process of how things happened. First, she called. Then my soup turned out too salty. Later, I suddenly remembered how from 9 albums, not even a single one had Hyson''s photo card! How can I be so unlucky?" She sighed out heavily, "Just that thought made me cry."

    "That was some process that led to crying," said Raelle. Although her tone didn''t sound sarcastic, her words did. "Anyway, how are you feeling now?"

    "I''m eggshell fine," replied Cloe as she rubbed the tip of her nose. "That means I''m currently whole but treat me gently or else I''ll break."

    "Treat you gently?" Raelle nkly stared at her face. "I''m always nice to everyone."

    Cloe wanted to curse her for even saying that. But she didn''t do it. "Since you''re so nice, how about showing me your husband?"

    "Not happening," smiled Raelle which made Cloe shudder.

 Chapter 72 - Belongs To Me

    Unlike Raelle, Shui Xian wasn''t very particr about lunch. And to make sure that he''d be able to leave on time today, he actually spent his lunch hour working. Or it''d be right to say that he was so engrossed in work that hepletely forgot about lunch. Like he usually did.

    "Master Xian, it''s 5 o''clock."

    Ma Jin didn''t know why his boss had asked him to do it. But he did as he was told. He informed his boss that it was 5 o''clock. No matter how strange he found it, he didn''t voice it out. It''s not like even if he asked, he''d receive an answer from Shui Xian.

    He clearly knew there was nothing on Shui Xian''s schedule nned for 5 o''clock.

    Shui Xian also looked at his watch and started cleaning up his desk. His assistant was left staring in a daze as he said, "You can leave on time as well. I''m leaving."

    "Master Xian, are you going to have dinner with President He? Didn''t you say no to him?"

    "Why would I go out on dinner with him?" retorted Shui Xian. "I also have a personal life."

    Ma Jin so wanted to retort, ''Do you? Do you really have a personal life?'' Because in the past four years, he hadn''t seen his boss having a personal life. Everything in his life revolved around work. So, it was truly shocking for him to hear this.

    Shui Xian didn''t pay attention to him and left the office. Instead of leaving at 5:30, he left at 5 o''clock just so that he could avoid gettingter in traffic like it happened yesterday. And because of that, he arrived at the shopping mall earlier than Raelle.

    Raelle was right on time as well. As they met up, Shui Xian held her hand saying, "Stay close."

    "How close is close?" she questioned. She took a step closer to him as her chest rubbed against his arm and said, "This is close." Then she leaned more and the front of her body was right against his as she added, "This is also close." After that, her face grew close to his. Their lips had only so much of a distance between them that only a sheet of paper could pass through. "In my understanding, this is also considered close."

    Keeping that close proximity, Shui Xian said, "This is called too close."

    "Too close forfort?" she questioned.

    "Oh, I''m oddly veryfortable," he replied. "But this isn''t the ce for it."

    Raelle nodded at him and took a step back saying, "So, what do you want?" She pointed around them saying, "Take your pick. Whatever you want, I''ll buy it for you."

    Shui Xian gave her a little smile before he hooked his finger and traced the bridge of her nose saying, "Let''s look around, okay?"

    "Okay," she replied.

    Both of them took the elevator and Shui Xian took her to a high-end clothing brand. It''s not like hecked clothes at home. Most of his suits were tailored specially for him. But he thought buying something with her would definitely be a new experience. Even if they were buying just clothes, it was something new for them.

    Raellenguidly ran her eyes over the racks and took out a wine red suit. She held it before him saying, "Try this one."

    Shui Xian didn''t take it as he said, "It''s supposed to be my gift."

    "Yes, it is," she replied.

    "I''m the one who is gonna wear it," he added.

    "Obviously," was her response.

    One of his brows lifted up slightly as he questioned, "Then why are you the one picking it for me?"

    Raelle pushed the suit against his chest as she said in a t tone, "Because most probably, I''m the one who is gonna take it off."

    Shui Xian ended up coughing because of her response.

    Raelle looked at his reaction and said, "That was a joke." Why was it that whenever she tried to make a joke, it''d make people cough rather thanugh?

    Shui Xian gave her a not so believing look before he took the suit from her hand and went to the trial room. When he came out, Raelle looked at him up and down with appreciation.

    She even muttered to herself, "Earlier it was really a joke but now I feel like taking it seriously."

    "What did you say?" questioned Shui Xian.

    But before Raelle could say anything, the shop attendant went up to his side, gushing, "Sir, this looks perfect on you. It''s like it''s made just for you."

    Raelle looked at the way this shop attendant''s hands were on her husband''s shoulder and took a hanger before hitting that hand of hers. The shop attendant was taken aback and flinched back.

    "I don''t like people touching my things." This was all that came out of Raelle''s mouth. And even though her voice had no emotion, it made the shop attendant''s back to turn numb.

    She bowed her head professionally and said, "Call me if you need anything."

    Shui Xian looked at her strangely as he said, "I didn''t know you''re possessive."

    Raelle shrugged her shoulders, "I already told you, I don''t like strangers touching me. How can I like strangers touching what belongs to me?"

    "So I belong to you now?" he questioned.

    "I have legal proof that you belong to me, want to see?"

    Shui Xian shook his head. He also had the same marriage certificate. He didn''t need her to show him any proof.

    Raelle took him before a full-length mirror as she asked, "What do you think?"

    He looked at the reflection before his eyes before saying, "I''ve never tried this color before."

    "There is always..."

    "A first time for everything." Shui Xian ended uppleting her sentence for her. He turned his eyes to look at her through the mirror as he asked, "Do you like it?"

    "Handsome!" she replied.

    He touched her head saying, "Then we''ll just buy it."

    "Not we," she retorted. "I''ll be buying it for you."

    "Yes, yes," began Shui Xian. "My wife is buying it for me. Thank you so much, wifey!"

    Raelle waved him off saying, "You''d do the same, Hubby!"

    "Since we are already here, let me do the same for you already," he said. "Come, I''ll buy you a gift as well."

    "What for?" she questioned.

    Shui Xian gave her a look, "I don''t need a reason to buy a gift for my wife."

 Chapter 73 - The Beauty

    Since Shui Xian had decided to buy her something, he definitely didn''t n on going back on his words. In fact, even if he had to drag her, he''d do it. He usually wasn''t fond of shopping but today seemed especially fun because of his wife.

    Maybe because he was having too much fun, he ended up buying a lot of things. And when he realized it himself, it was already toote. Howe he didn''t even realize it sooner? Was he really enjoying it that much? He felt reallyplicated.

    In the end, Raelle had to hold his hand to stop him, "Hubby, let''s go for dinner. If we continued, I have no doubt that you might end up buying everything here." She had no problem with that. But she thought it was enough for today.

    Shui Xian pinched his eyebrow saying, "But all the dresses looked good on you."

    Raelle patted his shoulder, "I know. I can make anything look good." Shui Xian raised his brow at her and she continued, "You have a doubt?"

    He shook his head while suppressing a smile, "I definitely have no doubt."

    Shui Xian had chosen a restaurant close to the mall. And when they reached there, Raelle noticed how they were the only people in the restaurant. It seemed her husband took her words seriously and really booked the whole restaurant for them.

    Sitting beside the ss windows, Raelle had the perfect night view of the city before her eyes. The city was alive with lights that echoed heaven''s stars. These colorful lights made the citye alive as those lights danced to the rhythm of their own music. It looked beautiful. But Raelle''s favorite was the river that flowed through the center of the city.

    "When is your friending?" asked Shui Xian. He really didn''t want to disturb her as she looked engrossed in appreciating the view with those beautiful eyes of hers. But he had to do so.

    Raelle shifted her eyes away and was about to speak when they heard a loud noise. "He''s here," was all Raelle said even without seeing where that noise came from.

    "Argh!" Hyson held his phone as he cried out. "It broke! It broke again! I just bought it!"

    Shui Xian looked at the young man who was scowling in distress at the broken phone in his hand. The young man was wearing washed up jeans with a dark blue hoodie. His hair looked untamed and so did he. This casual look didn''t diminish his beauty. In fact, it gave him a different kind of beauty. For instance, if Raelle could be described as an elegant and sophisticated beauty, he seemed rather wild and carefree.

    Only this much was enough for Shui Xian to know how different these best friends were from each other. And this made him, even more, intrigued to learn about this best friend.

    Raelle also looked up at Hyson and continued to stare for a while before saying, "You spent the past 8 hours trying to choose what to wear, and in the end, you picked this out?" She really didn''t know what to say. How did his brain work? At this point, she even questioned whether his brain worked or not?

    Hyson gave her a displeased look as he said, "Let''s be silent for 3 minutes."

    "What for?" she retorted.

    "I''m mourning my phone," he replied as he showed her the broken phone in his hand. "It just died. Have some empathy." Before Raelle could say anything, he opened his mouth to add, "Oh, I forgot! You don''t have any empathy to spare. My bad, I expected something you''re not capable of."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and decided to stay quiet for now. He wanted to see how this would continue. So, he silently observed them.

    "I told you, expectations in life are unhealthy," reminded Raelle.

    Hyson rolled his eyes at her and said, "And I told you to observe silence for three minutes. Clearly, we both are not listening to each other."

    "It''s just a phone," said Raelle. "I''ll just buy you a new one."

    Without even thinking, Hyson sat down on the chair beside her, "Don''t go back on your words!"

    "Have I ever?" she questioned.

    Hyson gave her a sly smile before looking at his phone, "Sorry, darling! I loved you but as my rich friend always says, we can always buy a new love!" He gave Raelle a huge smile as he went on, "Rich friend, I''m so happy to have you in my life."

    "I never said we can buy a new love. If I remember correctly, I said we can always buy a new phone," Raelle corrected him.

    Hyson tutted at her, "In my case, my love is my phone. That can be bought. You just said you''d buy it for me. And since I can get a new love, why dwell over the previous love that gave up on me? I''ll just consider that our journey together was supposed to end here."

    Shui Xian''s eyes shed with an indescribable emotion as he continued to look at Hyson''s face in a daze. Technically, he wasn''t staring at Hyson. Because thetter''s words had already sent his mind on another journey.

    "Aren''t you very practical?" remarked Raelle.

    Hyson shrugged his shoulders, "It''s all because of you. I was such a good kid, then you came crashing into my life. Now, I''m not good at anything."

    "How many phones have you even broken till now?"

    "I lost the count after 23," replied Hyson casually.

    "How did this one break?" questioned Raelle.

    "Isn''t it all your fault?"

    Raelle gave him a look, "It''s always my fault. But do enlighten me how this one is my fault as well?"

    Hyson kindly told her, "I was so excited toe inside but when I did, my eyes fell on a beauty. It was so dazzling that I ended up tripping on my own."

    "My beauty bedazzled you?" she responded.

    Hyson grinned and flicked her forehead lightly before saying, "Who said I was talking about you? I''m talking about the beauty sitting with you." Only now, Hyson moved his eyes to Shui Xian who had been silently watching them till now.

 Chapter 74 - Itâ€™s Cold

    Shui Xian was caught off-guard by Hyson''s statement. When did he be a beauty? Was it even right to describe him as ''beauty''?

    Raelle ced her hand over Hyson''s eyes as she said, "That''s my beauty! And you''re not allowed to look!"

    Hyson pursed his lips to hold back hisughter. "Sharing is caring."

    "Good thing, I''m not a caring person," replied Raelle.

    Hyson tried to move her hand away from his eyes as he said, "At least let me look. I know you don''t like people touching your things but what''s wrong with seeing?"

    "I don''t like people eyeing my things either. Humans are devious creatures, you never know what is hidden behind one look," retorted Raelle in her ever so t tone. She moved her hand away from his eyes but held his face as she forced him to look at her instead. "Why do I think you have a crush on my husband?"

    Hyson grinned, "I told youst time, I do have a crush on your husband. How about you give him up?"

    "Not happening!"

    Hyson burst outughing at her response. It was really fun to annoy her. Hyson pinched her cheeks saying, "Look at me. Where else will you find a friend like me? I''m caring, cute, generous, loving, funny, smart, and I even listen to all your nonsense. My advice to you is, ''Don''t ever lose me!''"

    Raelle swatted his hands away from her cheeks as she said, "I''ve been telling you to get lost for years, and yet you''re here. How can I lose you at this rate?"

    "How mean!" he made a face at her before turning to Shui Xian. "Master Xian must be wondering what has he gotten himself into."

    Shui Xian offered him a polite smile while Raelle finally thought of introducing them, "Hubby, meet my self-proimed best friend, Yue Fai. But you can call him Hyson."

    "What do you mean by self-proimed? I am your best friend! There is no way you can deny it!"

    Raelle didn''t even look at him as she continued to tell Shui Xian, "Fair warning! He can be super loud." Then she turned to Hyson and asked the same question as earlier, "But seriously, why did you show up wearing that? What was the point of disturbing me early in the morning if, in the end, you''re gonna wear this?"

    Hyson leaned back in his chair with a profound look as he said, "At first, I thought I should show up in my best attire for you. But then my roommate said, why bother? I should always stay true to myself."

    "If you had decided on staying true to yourself, why didn''t you juste out in your favorite SpongeBob shorts?"

    Hyson''s lips twitched at her words but he still said, "It''s cold outside!" He suddenly had a look of enlightenment as he took her phone from the table. "I suddenly recalled why I had my phone in my hands in the first ce." He searched for something on the inte and showed her the screen, "Let''s go to Country J next time. I want to see this."

    Raelle looked at the cute and tiny bird on the screen. The name read, ''Shima enaga.''

    "You want to make a long trip just to see a bird?" She snatched her phone from him as she continued, "Did you leave your brain at home tonight?"

    Hyson scowled at her, "Yeah! Didn''t I just say? It''s cold outside. I was afraid my brain would catch a cold so I let it stay at home to stay warm and cozy."

    While Raelle continued to stare at him nkly, Shui Xian couldn''t hold back hisughter. He tried to cover it with a cough but it was too obvious. Both Raelle and Hyson looked at him. "Don''t mind me. Please, continue!"

    He really meant it. He really wanted these two to continue. There was finally someone who could talk to his wife neck and neck. It was truly amusing. No matter what Raelle said, Hyson had a reply.

    Hyson cleared his throat, "This has been going on for over a decade now. So, nevermind!" He took a pause before adding, "But it''s my first time meeting Master Xian in person. I''m honored"

    "I should be the one saying it. I''m here to have dinner with a celebrity."

    Hyson rubbed the nape of his neck as he said, "Well, you''re more of a celebrity around here." He looked at Shui Xian as he continued, "Your fan following is bigger than mine."

    Shui Xian didn''t take his words seriously as he waved his hand to call the waiter saying, "We should eat something first. I''m sure you must be hungry by now."

    The other two had no objections to that. The waiter passed the menus to each of them as he stood at a side respectfully. While Shui Xian and Hyson were carefully deciding what to eat. Raelle and already started pointing randomly, "I''ll have this and this. Also, this one!"

    The waiter was noting down the order when Hyson snatched the menu from her hand and gave it back to the waiter. "You let it be. I''ll order something for you myself." Raelle shrugged her shoulders and turned her head to look outside the window again. Seeing how Shui Xian looked at them, Hyson exined it for him, "She just doesn''t care about what she is eating so she tends to choose her menu blindly. Next time, make sure you''re the one ordering for her as well."

    Shui Xian mentally noted it down. He heard from Raelle that she didn''t have a favorite food, but he didn''t think she was so careless about the taste of her food. It was just as he thought before if she said she liked everything, then most certainly it meant she liked nothing at all.

    Shui Xian gave his order while Hyson chose the food for himself and for Raelle as well. And he did it very naturally as well. It didn''t look like he was doing it for the first time because after all, he had been doing it for years now.

    After they were done, Shui Xian voiced out, "You look very familiar. It must be because you''re a celebrity."

    "Are you saying you''ve seen me around?" Shui Xian nodded his head. Although he wasn''t interested in celebrities, he still felt like he had seen Hyson around. He just couldn''t recall where. Hyson chuckled at him, "I''d be sad if you say it like that."

 Chapter 75 - The Credit Goes To...

    Shui Xian thought long and hard but he still couldn''t recall where he had seen Hyson before. He had a feeling that they had met before but he couldn''t pinpoint exactly where.

    Hyson chuckled seeing Shui Xian struggling to remember him. "Don''t stress over it. I actually didn''t expect you to remember me." He meant what he said. It had not only been years, but it was also because Hyson felt like his whole image had changed drastically after he debuted as an idol.

    Shui Xian pursed his lips as he said, "I''m sorry but I really can''t remember."

    "You''re actually my senior," said Hyson. "We graduated from the same university." Shui Xian''s lips parted slightly while Hyson went on, "We met at the senior-junior dinner party."

    Shui Xian nodded his head as he recalled finally, "Ah! I remember now! Someone even bragged about how you''re a trainee at an entertainmentpany already." He rubbed his brows as he went on, "It''s been so long that I totally forgot about it."

    Hyson waved him off saying, "It''s alright. I told you, I didn''t expect you to remember me. We only met at those dinner get-togethers a few times. And it''s really been a long time."

    Their conversation caught Raelle''s attention and she turned her head to ask, "By the time you got into university, didn''t my husband graduate by then?"

    "He did," replied Hyson. And he patiently decided to borate for her, "Our university had a tradition, even the graduated seniors of the same roll number would get together to meet the juniors. Coincidentally, in my batch, I shared the same roll number with Master Xian."

    Raelle continued to look at him, "But you studied Music."

    "So did your husband," retorted Hyson.

    Raelle turned to her husband now, "You studied Music?"

    While Shui Xian nodded her head, Hyson questioned, "You didn''t even know that? Are you sure you''re married?"

    Raelle stared at his face, "Oh, I''m sorry I didn''t know that I was supposed to read my husband''s resume before marrying him." She took a pause before adding, "Isn''t it bothersome to go to such dinners even after the graduation?"

    Shui Xian smiled at his wife as he exined, "It''s actually not bothersome. This allowed juniors and seniors to have a closer rtionship. And the idea of involving the already graduated ones was to allow the juniors to learn something from the seniors who had experience in the real world. I''d say I really liked that tradition."

    "I still find it troublesome," replied Raelle.

    Shui Xian wanted to say something when Hyson interrupted him, "Don''t bother. She can''t understand what you''re saying. She never even had a normal academic life, how can she even understand the importance of senior and junior''s rtionship in our culture?"

    "And I don''t want to understand either," retorted Raelle.

    Hyson gnashed his teeth and said, "If the people in life could be defined as a movie genre, you''d surely be named my least favorite one: Horror!"

    Raelle looked at her hands as if they were the most important thing in the world as she said, "Oh, you pitiful soul! Even if your hate this horror, yet you have to apany me to watch the horror movies every single time."

    "Ellie, I''m not scared of the horror movies you take me to," began Hyson. "It''s the horror of you sitting beside me that is scarier! Didn''t anyone tell you that even ghosts are scared of you?"

    "I''m very ttered to hear that," replied Raelle.

    "You both really don''t talk normally?" questioned Shui Xian out of pure curiosity.

    "Isn''t it pretty normal?" both Raelle and Hyson asked the same thing and at the same time as they shared a look.

    Shui Xian nodded his head as he said, "I guess that''s the definition of normal between you two."

    Raelle offered him a smile before she looked around and asked, "What''s taking so long?" She tapped on Hyson''s shoulder as she further asked, "What are we eating tonight?"

    "Food," he replied.

    "I mean what are we having?"

    "Apparently an unwanted conversation," was his reply.

    Raelle picked up the food knife from the table and traced the edges lightly as she went on, "More than this conversation, I feel like you''re unwanted here."

    Hyson hurriedly snatched the knife from her hand and put it far away from her saying, "Dangerous things don''t look good in the hands of dangerous people." He put a hand beside his lips as he said to Shui Xian, "She is dangerous enough without a knife."

    "I can hear you," told Raelle.

    Hyson cleared his throat and leaned backnguidly as he said, "I said it so that you can hear it. I''m an honest and upright man. I don''t need to talk behind your back."

    "Suddenly, I''m very curious," Shui Xian voiced out. "How did you two meet?"

    Hyson looked at Raelle and a sly smile bloomed on his lips. "Should I tell him?"

    Raelle''s reaction was nd as she said, "What? Are you gonna tell him how your cried and I took pity on you?"

    "Hey! Do you even know the meaning of pity?"

    "Are you saying I''m telling a lie?"

    Hyson couldn''t refute her words but he still wanted to correct her, "Even if what you said is the truth, don''t change the context of it. Yes, I cried but I had a reason!"

    "Just because you had a reason, does that make your crying any less ignoble?"

    Hyson took a deep breath and chanted loudly, "I''m a good person. I''m a very good person. I''m an extremely good person."

    "What is he doing?" asked Shui Xian.

    "He is reminding himself why we had been friends for fifteen years now," answered Raelle calmly.

    Hyson exhaled a long breath and looked at Shui Xian saying, "I''m the sole reason why this friendship even exists. She has no hand in it."

    "So, you''re taking all the credit?" asked Shui Xian in amusement.

    Hyson looked at his best friend as he questioned, "Ellie, do you want some credit?"

    "You keep it," answered Raelle. "I don''t want anything that has no value." Hyson rolled his eyes at her while Shui Xian was left staring at her wide-eyed. "Besides, does it really matter? Whether it''s because of you or me, the end result is that we had been together for fifteen years now. Isn''t that what really matters?"

    While Hyson smiled to himself Shui Xian was yet again stunned by her words.

 Chapter 76 - Fell In Love

    Raelle''s words made Hyson''s lips curve up in a smile. No matter how dense this best friend of his was when it came to emotions, she still had all the right words. Oh, wait! She had all the wrong words as well but all those words made perfect sense to him. Or saying that all her wrong words sounded right to him would be more appropriate now. Maybe that was why he hade to love this best friend of his like a family.

    She was like that sister that Heaven forgot to send in the same home with him. But so what? It didn''t change the fact that from the very first time he met her, he had the urge to protect her. And that feeling, even now, was just as overwhelming as it once had been.

    He slung his arm around her neck in a friendly manner as he rubbed their heads together. shing a grin to Shui Xian, he said, "We are both a bit abnormal. But our abnormality seems to resonate well together. That is why we create the perfect synergy together." He looked at Raelle asking, "Right, Elle?"

    Instead of answering his question, Raelle looked at her phone that was vibrating and took it with her saying, "Excuse me, I''m gonna take this call."

    As she stood up and left to take her call, Hyson''s mouth opened, "Ai...sh!" He really wanted to curse her out loud right there! "She really makes me want to punch her beautiful face." Shui Xian raised his brow at him and he added, "Don''t worry, I won''t do it! I''ve been holding in that urge for far too long now. To be very honest, I''m at that point in my life where whatever she says has no effect on me."

    "Really? It seemed like her words do have some effect though," Shui Xian pointed out.

    Hyson smiled at her, "That''s because I am the reaction King in her life. I have to give her some reaction. How else will she be able to learn different expressions?" Shui Xian continued to look at him in silence not knowing what to say and Hyson went on, "Earlier you asked how we met?"

    "I am very curious to know about that," replied Shui Xian honestly. Earlier he was just curious, and now he was even more so. It really was a huge mystery to him, how these two pr opposites managed to stick together for 15 years. Even his friendships didn''tst that long.

    Hyson nodded his head, "I can''t tell you how we exactly met but I can tell you how or exactly when did I felt like I want her as my friend." Shui Xian leaned over in interest as Hyson continued, "Back then, I had just moved to this city from the countryside. I was unfamiliar with the roads and got lost. Let''s just say while I was feeling lost, I found her. I met the right person on the wrong road. Now that I think about it, I feel like it was meant to be."

    "It was destiny..." said Shui Xian.

    Hyson shook his head, "That extremely infuriating yet adorable best friend of mine says that destiny is the name of a nned encounter. Everything is calcted in our lives." Shui Xian listened to him intently as he went on, "She just told you that I was crying and she took pity on me back then." Shui Xian nodded as he added, "That''s true. I had fallen down, got my knees scraped and I was indeed crying out for my mom. And maybe the very first emotion she got familiar with was indeed the pity she felt for me."

    Hyson had a reminiscent look on his face as he recalled...

    ~~~

    Seeing his bleeding knees, any nine years old would cry out for their mother. Hyson had done the same. However, the girl in white dress didn''t even look at him as she continued to walk past him. And that made him cry even louder.

    But after about ten steps, the girl stopped. She turned around and walked back to his side and said, "Are you showing off that you have a mother?" The little boy looked up at her and shook his head innocently. "Then stop crying! Your mother is not here to help you. Neither is she gonna be there for all your life. You''re the one who lost the way, you should be the one to find your way back to her as well!"

    The little boy was so stunned by her words that he even forgot to cry. As he watched her turn back to leave again, he wiped his tears and stood up. Looking at that back, for the first time, he felt like he wanted to protect someone else other than his mom. It was because of how she looked and how lonely she seemed. And with that thought, he decided to follow her without hesitation.

    ~~~

    Hyson chuckled at that precious memory as he said, "And it''s been 15 years and I''m still following her without any hesitation."

    Shui Xian frowned a little after listening to him.

    "She was in no condition to show her concern to me and yet she did it," told Hyson. "Although she did it exactly in her style. Being a total jerk!" He smiled to himself as he added, "But that jerk is still the second dearest person to me."

    "Second?" questioned Shui Xian.

    "First is always my mum," he answered without hesitation. "No one can take her ce."

    "If she is that important in your life..." began Shui Xian but felt reluctant to continue. He didn''t know whether he was supposed to ask this question or not.

    "You''re wondering if I ever fell in love with her?" Shui Xian was surprised. It was as if all his thoughts wereid bare before him. He didn''t know how to respond but he still nodded his head honestly. Hyson tapped his chin thoughtfully and dragged the time for a minute longer than necessary before saying, "Of course, I did! No, I should say I still do."

    "Huh?"

    "Oh, I love her! I do!" Hyson''s face waspletely serious now,cking his earlier yfulness.

 Chapter 77 - Very Innocent

    When Hyson said those words, his eyes were constantly on Shui Xian''s face. Both men were silently waiting to see some kind of reaction from the other but both didn''t get anything except for silence. Thisck of response gave Hyson a headache.

    "You don''t look surprised," Hyson pointed out when he saw the calmness on Shui Xian''s face.

    "There was nothing surprising about what you just said," replied Shui Xian.

    "Huh?"

    "I''d be more surprised if you said you don''t love her," Shui Xian borated which left Hyson stunned for a moment. "Maybe you don''t realize it but you make that love very obvious."

    "Then why did you even wanted to ask me that question?" inquired Hyson.

    Shui Xian shrugged his shoulders saying, "I just wanted to hear it from you." The corner of his lips lifted ever so slightly as he added, "Besides, you spent 15 years with her even when you both are not rted in any way. That definitely means love yed a role in that. But that also means that the nature of that love is very different."

    Hyson feigned a shocked look, "Are you a mind reader as well? How do you know this?" He sighed out as he went on, "It''s true that I love her. Who wouldn''t?" He smiled to himself as he continued, "But you''re also right. I love her like one would love family. She is that important in my life."

    He took a pause as he recalled something and chuckled, "Actually, when I turned 19, I did ask her out." Shui Xian lifted his brows in question. "I was bored of seeing everyone around me dating, so I asked her out. Do you wanna know how that conversation went?"

    Shui Xian couldn''t help smiling as he said, "As much I know her by now, it definitely didn''t go the same route you wanted it to."

    "It definitely didn''t!"

    ~~~

    "Elle!"

    "Hm?"

    "Go out with me?" Hyson continued to look at her face as she slurped on the noodles in her bowl.

    Her movements didn''t even stop for a second as she asked, "Okay. Let''s go out. Where do you want to go? I''ll take you."

    Hyson facepalmed himself before trying again, "No, I mean let''s go on a date."

    "What date?" she asked further. "You definitely have to give me the date in advance so that I can check with my new assistant, Cloe if I''m free on the specific date or not."

    A low growl escaped from his throat as he red at her, "Are you doing it on purpose?"

    She finally looked up from her bowl, "What did I do on purpose?"

    Looking into her innocent eyes, he took a deep breath and decided to give this bizarre idea onest chance. "I meant that we should... You and me, we should be in a rtionship."

    She continued to look at his face intently and finally said, "Aren''t we already in a rtionship?"

    Hyson was left gaping at her in confusion. When did they get into a rtionship? Howe only he didn''t know about it?

    Seeing his confusion, she continued, "You said you''re my best friend. Doesn''t that also fall under the category of a rtionship?"

    Hyson''s face twitched at her words and he had the urge to smack her face yet again. That''s when he realized, no matter how bored he was, he really didn''t want to even think about dating her. People who start dating would want to kiss each other, all he wanted to do was strangle her!

    After he calmed down, heughed out heartily and said, "Right. We have a good rtionship. Let''s notplicate it any more."

    ~~~

    Shui Xian pursed his lips together as he listened to Hyson, trying to hold back hisughter.

    "In her categories of rtionships, I only fit in the space for best friend. She can''t understand theplication of rtionships. For her, there is only space for one person in the category of a life partner. And you already filled it."

    Shui Xian nodded his head as he said, "My wife loves to read books but why do I feel like reading her would be even more interesting?"

    "She is the most difficult and yet the most interesting person in my life," Hyson told him. "Whenever I feel down, I really just have to give her a call and everything bes better."

    Those words reminded Shui Xian of the text Raelle showed him that Hyson had sent. Apparently, he wasn''t joking when he said that his day would get better just looking at Raelle''s picture.

    "Your friendship is enviable," said Shui Xian honestly. "It''s already hard enough to stay in contact with people you met in high school and you both managed to keep this friendship even though you stayed thousand of miles away from each other."

    Hyson smiled cheekily, "Aren''t we just amazing?" Shui Xian pressed his lips together but nodded his head in response. "I also think we are really awesome. This friendship is the second thing I''m most proud of in my life." He looked at Shui Xian and added, "And before you ask, my mum is still in the first ce. She is the one I''m most proud to have."

    "Aren''t you proud of what you managed to achieve in your life?" asked Shui Xian curiously.

    "Why should I be proud of that? Isn''t it enough that my mum and my best friend are proud of what I achieved in my life?" He took a brief pause to add, "Although my emotionless friend doesn''t say it, she has a way to show how much she''s been proud of me. And trust me, it isn''t that easy to impress her."

    "I knew you''d be an interesting person when I learned that you''re my wife''s best friend. I just never thought you''d be this interesting. You and my wife really emit the same kind of energy."

    Hyson''s brow quirked up, "Really? I think we are really different though."

    Shui Xian shook his head in reply, "Not really. Even if the exterior is different, you both have the same kind of a heart; very innocent."

 Chapter 78 - Semantic Error

    Hyson suddenlyughed out. It wasn''t the first time someone told him that he and Raelle had a simr core. His mother often told him the same thing that they both had such a strong bond because they both had a beautiful heart. They both had different personalities but the same kind of heart.

    However, Hyson didn''t think Shui Xian would notice it. And that too, on their very first meeting. But then again, he never thought he''d see Shui Xian as his best friend''s husband as well.

    "You''re not wrong," began Hyson. "We both are indeed very innocent for this world. In fact, we can oftene off as naive as well. But..." He took a pause as he looked right into Shui Xian''s eyes as the smile vanished from his face and from his eyes as well. "That doesn''t mean we are really naive." Shui Xian''s eyes narrowed slightly as he went on, "We are just as treacherous as we are innocent."

    Shui Xian had to agree with that statement, "I have noticed."

    Hyson was taken aback a little as he frowned, "You noticed? How?"

    Shui Xian took a deep breath as he looked at Raelle who was still talking over the phone and said, "You both don''t even realize how your innocent words manage to cut someone''s heart deeply. So, I must say that if you can hurt someone so badly, unintentionally. Then people should be scared of the time you both would want to intentionally hurt them."

    Hyson had a proud smile bloom up on his face. He had always liked Shui Xian as a person, and now he was thrilled to know that his admiration wasn''t ced on the wrong person.

    "What are you looking so proud for?"

    Hyson tilted his head to look at Raelle who came back right when the food was served. She ced her phone on the table and looked at both Hyson and Shui Xian.

    "I''m suddenly proud to have Master Xian as my role model," stated Hyson without feeling embarrassed at all.

    Shui Xian was surprised, "Wait! What? When did I be your role model?"

    "You''ve been my role model since a long time ago," replied Hyson.

    "You''re an idol for millions of people," said Shui Xian. "You should look up to a better person. I didn''t even get to the stage you are on. I failed to achieve my dream. And I failed in my first marriage as well. What''s there to look up to?"

    Raelle leaned her head towards Hyson as she asked, "Is he looking down on himself?"

    "He seems to be," replied Hyson.

    Raelle looked at Shui Xian and said, "You cannot do this. No one is allowed to look down on my husband. Even my husband is not allowed to do it."

    Hyson chuckled at Raelle''s words and added, "Listen to her. That''s the safest route."

    "As if you''ve ever listened to me," retorted Raelle.

    Hyson grinned at her, "That''s because I never liked the safe routes. I was always a daredevil!" Before Raelle could say anything, Hyson had turned Shui Xian as he said, "As for you, my role model. Just as she said, you''re not allowed to look down on yourself. I know you wanted to be a music producer but had to give up your dream. But I also know that you acquired TC Music to make others'' dreamse true. That doesn''t seem like a failure to me."

    Shui Xian was looking at the both of them speechlessly. He really didn''t know what to say right now.

    "As for your first marriage, allow my best friend to give you a life lesson."

    Hyson picked up the spoon and brought it before Raelle''s lips as if it was a mic. Raelle looked at her best friend who threw the pot on her head before she looked back at Shui Xian. "Marriages fail when love dies down. Loving someone who doesn''t love you back is like hugging a cactus. The tighter you hold on, the more you get hurt. And in that case, only an idiot would want to bleed to death. One should let go when it''s time to let go."

    Shui Xian blinked at her in silence before he said, "I thought you don''t believe in love."

    "I have another example for you..."

    Hyson ced a hand over her mouth as he looked at Shui Xian and said, "She is trying to use the words that you''d be able to resonate with. Let her do it! Why are you asking for a chemistry lesson? Do you really want her to start a lecture on the periodic table?"

    While Shui Xian pursed his lips, Raelle tapped Hyson''s hand that was still on her mouth. As he retracted his hand, she stared at him nkly, "You can rx. Yanyan strictly ordered me to refrain from any kind of chemistry lectures." She turned to Shui Xian and went on, "However if I do have to say in other words. It''s actually simple. Sometimes even with the right syntax, you can''t understand the context of a sentence. But oftentimes even the wrong semantic end up exining everything."

    Hyson facepalmed himself before saying, "Ellie, food is getting cold. Please, let''s not continue."

    "Okay," was how she responded and picked up her fork and knife.

    Shui Xian was still staring at Raelle''s face while thetter had already started eating her food without paying any attention to anyone. He didn''t know how to feel about her words. Because her words made perfect sense to him. Just because two right people came together, it didn''t mean they could make a perfect rtionship as well. That''d be like a syntactical error that happened with him and his ex-wife.

    As for the semantic error, that''d be his rtionship with Raelle. They both didn''t fit together. It seemed odd to no matter who would know that these two people who belonged to two separate worlds had actually married. However, even if it seemed odd, this rtionship made perfect sense now.

 Chapter 79 - Palette Of Red

    Shui Xian looked at this ''semantic error'' of his life and the corner of his lips couldn''t help lifting up even further. Meanwhile, Raelle''s focus was still solely on the food. Shui Xian also lifted his cutlery to eat as well.

    His life had been monotonous for years now. And he often felt like his life had turned into the palette of gray. But meeting Raelle was like someone was introducing him back to every shade of colors. He felt like she was like a palette of all the gorgeous colors life had to offer and slowly, those gorgeous colors were beginning to repaint his monotonous world.

    Every shade of grey in his life was being introduced to every shade of red. As for why he thought of the color red... His eyes fell on Raelle''s slightly moist lips. Her naturally red lips were just as enticing as they had been when he first met her. And now that she was wearing a red suit, he could say that red was definitely her color. And if red was her color, then wasn''t it obvious that she''d paint his monotonous life with her color?

    "Elle, what took you so long over the phone call?" asked Hyson after a moment of silently eating.

    "Had to deal with somethings," replied Raelle vaguely.

    When Raelle didn''t answer him clearly he looked at Shui Xian and said, "Master Xian, would you like to hear something exciting about your wife?"

    Shui Xian''s brows raised up slightly, "Well, why not?" He took a pause and added, "But please stop calling me Master Xian. I''d be d if you called me by my name instead."

    "Your wife might not be peculiar about her food but she is peculiar about the people who can stay in her life," stated Hyson. Raelle''s hand paused slightly but she didn''t lift her eyes to look at them and continued to eat again. "So, don''t ever look down on yourself. Raelle Xiang wouldn''t marry just anyone."

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "I know. She already told me that she married me because I''m handsome. That''s my redeeming quality."

    Hyson looked at his best friend, "Seriously?"

    Raelle finally spared him a nce as she said, "What? Did I say anything wrong? Is he not handsome?"

    Hyson rolled his eyes at her, "You and your obsession with beautiful things."

    "I''m not obsessed with beautiful things," retorted Raelle.

    "And you don''t even realize that you''re obsessed with beautiful things." Hyson shook his head at her and looked at Shui Xian, "Don''t take her words to heart. No, actually do take it to heart. It''s not every day she calls someone handsome."

    "Really?" questioned Shui Xian as his brows jumped up.

    "Yes, really! Even I''m just called pretty in her eyes. I''m not at the level of being handsome in her eyes." Hyson told Shui Xian without hesitation. He felt like there wasn''t a need to hide anything from Shui Xian since thetter was his best friend''s husband now. "She has never called me handsome in the past 15 years. The meaning of beauty in her eyes is very different."

    "Oh," responded Shui Xian. "I''m feeling honored once again." He had a yful smile on his lips as he added, "At least, my good looks have some value now."

    Hyson chuckled at that. He had heard about how hard it was to deal with Shui Xian. But meeting him again, he didn''t feel like those rumors could be trusted. Maybe Shui Xian did change after his divorce but all Hyson could see was how Shui Xian was rather an easygoing and understanding person. And quite mature. Just what his best friend needed!

    "Ellie, do you know mom wanted me to invite you both home for dinner?"

    Raelle put down her fork and knife and turned to look at Hyson, "Why didn''t you tell me that sooner? We could have saved this trip."

    "How can I invite your husband to my humble abode?" questioned Hyson.

    "Actually, I''d have loved to have some homemade food as well," Shui Xian chimed in.

    "Oh..." Hyson scratched his head and added, "Then we can do that another time. You both cane to my home for dinner anytime. Because my mum is eager to meet my best friend''s husband. She even sent a gift for you both."

    "There was no need for a gift," said Raelle.

    "Who said it''s for you?" asked Hyson. "I know you don''t like receiving gifts."

    "You know that and yet you send me gifts," Raelle shot back.

    "How else would I get to annoy you?" Hyson smirked at her.

    Raelle looked at him seriously, "Hyson, why are you so interested in troubling me? Have I ever troubled you?"

    "Always!" he eximed in reply almost immediately. In fact, one would say his reaction was a bit exaggerated as well.

    Raelle blinked at him nkly as she said, "And you still didn''t get used to it?"

    Hyson was left choked for words again. What did she mean? Was she implying that just because she had been troubling him all this while, he should be used to it now? Why? Why should he get used to it? Couldn''t she change herself? But then again, he was really expecting for impossible!

    Hyson took a deep breath and looked at Shui Xian, "She is very difficult, isn''t she?"

    Shui Xian shrugged his shoulders nonchntly, "Kind of."

    "You should also get used to it then," advice Hyson out of the goodwill of his heart. Inwardly, he was delighted at the thought that he was not alone now. Someone else had to suffer along with him now.

    "Hmm..." hummed Shui Xian in response.

    Hyson took a sip of the wine and thought of something as he looked at both Raelle and Shui Xian before asking, "By the way, I know why my best friend chose to marry you but what about you? If you hadn''t met her before marriage, I''d say that you got duped. But since you had already met her, I really wonder how did youe to agree for this marriage?"

 Chapter 80 - Personal Attacks

    Before Shui Xian could say anything, Hyson continued, "Don''t get me wrong. I know all about the good points of my best friend. But that''s what I know since she is my best friend. How did you decide to just marry her without knowing her? Because I personally never thought one can learn about the other person in just a single meeting."

    Shui Xain''s eyes went to Raelle''s face who was silently waiting for his reply, "She made me realize that maybe I had been living my life wrong all this while."

    "She made you question your beliefs?" questioned Hyson and seeing Shui Xian nod, he sighed out. "Why am I not even surprised?" Hyson could tell that there was more to it but Shui Xian was holding back. And since thetter wasn''t in the mood to tell, he wouldn''t force him either. Besides, he didn''t need to do so. He could already see that Shui Xian had already begun to like Raelle without him knowing it.

    Just like that, the three of them had a very harmonious dinner together. Shui Xian didn''t even feel like this was his first time officially meeting Hyson. And since it had been too long for him to have such a friendly dinner, he felt rxed. He didn''t feel like putting up a front before either Raelle or Hyson. Both his wife and her best friend were quite astute.

    And by the time the dinner ended, Shui Xian genuinely took a liking to Hyson. He could already tell that Hyson must be the abnormality in Raelle''s perfect life. And maybe that''s why she cherished him so much without realizing it.

    But he also noticed something else. During the dinner, Hyson had constantly been conscious of taking care of Raelle. He was once again reminded of Mu Chenyan''s words as she had told him before that Raelle needed someone to take care of her.

    Hyson wasughing as he told Shui Xian, "Although my best friend doesn''t have any embarrassing moments. But she has some seriously cute but dumb moments."

    "For instance?" Shui Xian asked curiously.

    "We had decided to meet up at a cafe and I ended up beingte. When I got there, she looked at me and said, ''Someone said eating cupcakes is the real happiness. I don''t know how many cupcakes does it take to feel that happiness but it''s definitely not 29.'' I was left staring at her dumbly as I asked, ''Don''t tell me you really ate 29 cupcakes for the sole purpose of experiencing that happiness?'' As always she tly replied, ''It was for educational reasons.''" Hyson couldn''t stopughing as he went on, "That was one of the rare moments in my life when I realized that she was capable of something so dumb."

    Shui Xian also ended up chuckling and covered his mouth with his hand.

    "Oh, put that hand down," said Raelle, and Shui Xian stared at her with a raised brow. "I want to see thatugh." Shui Xian was left blinking at her for a moment.

    Hyson rubbed her head saying, "My best friend really learned from me. You can be called an expert at flirting now."

    Raelle didn''t bother with his hand that was ruining her hairstyle but she still said, "Learned from you? Have you ever even been in a rtionship before?"

    "Ouch!" Hyson held his chest as if it hurt as he said, "Just because you got married, you don''t have to do these personal attacks now."

    "Earlier you just questioned my intelligence," she reminded him. "Was that not considered a personal attack?"

    Hyson grinned at her, "But you didn''t mind it. After all, your act of dumb cuteness made your husbandugh. Why would you mind it?" Hyson could really see through his best friend without any problem. She was an open book before him and even she couldn''t deny that.

    Raelle''s eyes moved back to Shui Xian''s face as she said, "Yes, I didn''t mind it. And yes, it''s only because it made my husbandugh. He doesn''t seem tough that often."

    Hyson rolled his eyes at her, "As if you get to question that. Have you ever put on a real smile?" Then he turned to Shui Xian and continued, "Xian Ge, it''s good to be careful in life but not when ites to the smile on your face." Shui Xian listened to him attentively. "It''s not fair to yourself to let another person steal the smile from your face. Life has a habit of taking something from us but life alsopensate us by giving something back in return as well. Instead of losing your smile over what life took from you, you should smile brighter for what life offered you in return."

    Shui Xian''s views about this carefree young man were once again changed. He really didn''t think Hyson would have such a deep personality with his lighthearted look. Indeed, one shouldn''t be judged by how they looked. This carefree young man must have experienced something to turn him into such a thoughtful person.

    "Is this her effect or you''re naturally such a deep soul kind of a person?" inquired Shui Xian.

    Hyson pressed his lips together and as he thought long and hard before saying, "I think it''s Raelle''s effect! Very effective!"

    "Are you really gonna me me for everything tonight?" asked Raelle.

    "I feel like doing it," retorted Hyson. "What can you do about it?" Hyson gave her a challenging look.

    "Let''s meet at the gym tomorrow," said Raelle in return.

    Hyson slid his chair away from her saying, "No thanks! My muscles are still hurting from thest visit to the gym." Was he crazy? Why would he go there to be her punching bag?

    "Don''t worry, Wifey! I''ll go with you instead," offered Shui Xian.

    Hyson gave Shui Xian a look while Raelle asked, "You?"

    "Hm," replied Shui Xian. "Why? I can''t go?"

    "Xian Ge, she has a ck-belt in jiu-jitsu," Hyson kindly let him know this piece of information.

    Shui Xian gave his wife a smile as he said, "What a surprise! So do I."

    "When did you get trained in jiu-jitsu?" inquired Hyson.

    "In thest two years," answered Shui Xian.

    Hyson pped his hands together, "That''s good! No, that''s great! It''s settled then! I''ll send Xian Ge in my ce. Have fun, Ellie!"

 Chapter 81 - Checkmate!

    "Checkmate!"

    A peal ofughter floated in the silent lounge. Grandfather Xiang stared at the woman before him and a small smile hung at the corner of his lips.

    Only after Mu Chenyan got over her initial excitement did she take a deep breath and sobered up a little, "Sorry, Elder Xiang!"

    "For what? For winning?" inquired Grandfather Xiang and shook his head at her. "The student has now be the master.[1] I should be happy about it."

    Mu Chenyan lowered her eyes and grinned sheepishly to herself, "I think I can challenge our Elle now as well."

    "That student was born a master," said Grandfather Xiang. "Don''t court your own death."

    Mu Chenyan thought about it before nodding her head, "I should really not y with her. She wouldn''t even let me win out of courtesy." She picked up the chess pieces and was about to set the board as she said, "Let''s y another round before dinner."

    Grandfather Xiang stopped her, "Wait!" Mu Chenyan looked up inquisitively at him. "I have something important to discuss with you."

    Mu Chenyan sat straight and gave him all her attention.

    "Now that Yenay has married into a good family with a good husband, what have you decided?"

    "About?"

    "About yourself," said Grandfather Xiang. "Although you don''t call me father, I''ve always treated you like a daughter. And just like I want to bring the whole world''s happiness into Yenay''s life, I want the same for you as well. You''ve wasted your life raising Yenay. Isn''t it time to live your own life?"

    Mu Chenyan''s face looked rather gloomy now as she said, "I''ve never said I wasted my life on Elle. If anything, she became my reason to live all over again. And who said I haven''t been living my own life?"

    "Every day you''re worried about Yenay. Did she eat on time? Is she fine? Is she happy? When do you have time to think about yourself?"

    Mu Chenyan made a face at him, "I do all of that because all of that makes me happy."

    Grandfather Xiang sighed at this stubborn one. "You really don''t want to get married?"

    "Is this my age to get married?" she shot back.

    "What''s age has to do with that?" questioned Grandfather Xiang. "You''re always telling Yenay how one''s age can''t set boundaries for what they can or can''t do then howe the same doesn''t apply to yourself now?"

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips. "It''s not that it doesn''t apply to me. I just don''t want to leave you."

    Grandfather Xiang knocked on her head saying, "Don''t want to leave me? No, my dear daughter, you just need an excuse to hold on to your memories. It really makes me want to p you!"

    Mu Chenyan looked aggrieved to hear that. She was wondering why did hee to think of all this again? He had been quiet for the past two years and she let her guard down. What a blunder!

    She slid close to him as she said, "Elder Xiang, why can''t you just let me take care of you? I''m truly happy doing that."

    Grandfather Xiang gave her a stern look, "Are you trying to repay me for raising you? Is that why you want to give up on your own life entirely?" He took a pause before adding, "Back in G country, at least you used to leave the house. You had some activities but since the time we came here, you haven''t left the house alone even once."

    Mu Chenyan bit her bottom lip before saying, "Okay. I promise I''ll look for something to do for myself. But don''t ever say that I''m taking care of you because I''m trying to repay you. I genuinely care about you. You''re like a father to me."

    "Then I better not see you at home hovering around me again," warned Grandfather Xiang in his authoritative tone.

    Mu Chenyan had to say that this air of nobility and dominance of a military man would never leave Grandfather Xiang. Even at this age, he inspired awe in people with his presence. And she didn''t dare say no to him even now!

    "Good evening, Uncle Yu!"

    Both Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan looked at the guest who just came to their house.

    "Shing, what a pleasant surprise!" said Grandfather Xiang with a gentle smile as he greeted Shui Koshing.

    "Uncle Yu, I brought you some home-brewed wine," said Shui Koshing as he ced a porcin bottle on the coffee table. Grandfather Xiang eyed the wine before he looked at him suspiciously. Under his gaze, Shui Koshing blurted out, "Your friend, Zhai Feiyang sent some to me for the new year. I thought I should bring some for you as well."

    "Don''t bring up his name," said Grandfather Xiang in displeasure. "If I met him, I''m gonna punch his face for humiliating my granddaughter."

    Shui Koshing pursed his lips to hold back hisughter, "Is this about how Uncle Yang''s grandson didn''t show up on the blind date with our Elle?"

    "How do you know?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "In the morning, it was Uncle Yang''s grandson who brought the wine over," told Shui Koshing.

    "He met our Elle?" Mu Chenyan asked further.

    "He did and he even apologized in person for not showing up," Shui Koshing decided to state everything in detail. He wasn''t doing it for Zhai Yanjun but rather for his grandfather. He had known how close his father had been with his two friends and now that his father was no longer around, he didn''t want his father''s friends to have any disagreement between them that would leave a bad taste in their rtionship. "So, I think you should not be upset with Uncle Yang. He was really innocent in what happened."

    "Hmph!" Grandfather Xiang humphed. "I''ll think about it."

    Mu Chenyan looked at Shui Koshing and gave him a reassuring smile. Since Elder Xiang had said it this way, it meant he was already not upset with his friend any longer. But had to put up his pride for a little longer.

    They both shared a look and decided not to disclose this old man''s real thoughts.

    [1] ''The student has now be the master'': The student is now more skilled than the teacher.

 Chapter 82 - Is It Fair?

    "My daughter strictly instructed me to not eat alone, that''s why I had toe here to mooch off some food," Shui Koshing told Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan.

    "We already know that," replied Mu Chenyan. "Elle has already told us that you''d be having dinner with us. I''ve asked the cook to prepare food ordingly."

    "Oh, my daughter is indeed thoughtful," said Shui Koshing.

    "That she sure is," Mu Chenyan couldn''t help feeling proud. Whenever Raelle was mentioned, she''d instinctively feel proud. Especially if someoneplimented her baby girl.

    The three of them gathered together at dinner and chatted harmoniously.

    "Shing, do you not n on introducing your daughter to Raelle?" asked Grandfather Xiang and Shui Koshing''s face stiffened slightly.

    "Right! Ge, where is Shui Sying?" Mu Chenyan also inquired curiously.

    "Wherever she is, let her stay there," responded Shui Koshing. "I''m sure she already holds prejudice against Raelle."

    "Huh? Why?" Mu Chenyan looked confused. "She didn''t even meet our Raelle. How can she be resentful towards her? Maybe you''re overthinking on your own."

    Shui Koshing shook his head saying, "She always had problems with my decisions because apparently, I was always the cruel and controlling father to her."

    Mu Chenyan gave him a look, "You? Cruel and controlling?" She snorted, "And here I thought you strictly abided by that proverb, ''Let each child follow his own path even if takes him to the edge of a cliff.''"

    Sadness flickered through Shui Koshing''s eyes as he remained silent. He did follow that proverb. Why else would he have to see his son breaking apart right before his eyes?

    In an attempt to change the topic of the conversation, Shui Koshing blurted out, "Does Elle really not know who her parents are?"

    Mu Chenyan red at Shui Koshing before she looked at Grandfather Xiang cautiously. She lowered her voice and asked, "Shing Ge, do you have a death wish? Why are you bringing that up right now?"

    Shui Koshing looked at Grandfather Xiang and pressed his lips together.

    "She doesn''t want to know," replied Grandfather Xiang. "And it''s better if she doesn''t know them either." Saying that Grandfather Xiang maneuvered his wheelchair and left.

    Mu Chenyan looked at retreating back and sighed out, "That''s a taboo topic in this house."

    "Oh, I thought it was a taboo topic for Raelle," said Shui Koshing. He took a pause and added, "By the way, does Raelle really not want to know about her parents? Or is it Uncle Yu who doesn''t want her to know about them?"

    Mu Chenyan''s eyes narrowed at him, "Ge, what kind of a person do you think our Elder Xiang is? Why would he not want Elle to know about her own parents? When she was young, we repeatedly tried to tell her. But it''s like ''parents'' have no ce in her life. For some reason, she had always been resistant towards the idea of having parents." She took a pause and added, "Don''t ask why because I don''t know either."

    "But doesn''t all kids yearn for their parents'' attention and love?" he couldn''t help saying.

    "She wasn''t like other kids. She never needed anyone''s attention or love. If anything, she even used to find me and Elder Xiang quite troublesome. Whether we tried to love her, give her attention or take care of her, either way, she always tried to keep some distance between us." She took a sip of the water and said, "It took us years to make her ept that she needed to give other people some space in her life as well. But even till now, that space is very limited. She won''t be randomly adding anyone into her life."

    Shui Koshing thought it would take him a while to understand his daughter-inwpletely. "I actually thought only I noticed her simrity with her father because I know who her father is. But I guess others can also see that simrity."

    "What do you mean?" Mu Chenyan''s brows furrowed up. "Someone else pointed it out?"

    Shui Koshing nodded his head, "In the morning, Zhai Yanjun pointed out how she looked simr to someone he knew."

    Mu Chenyan''s frown deepened, "How did he notice it? Is he familiar with Ge?"

    Shui Koshing nodded his head, "He is a captain of one the biggest military bases in our country. Do you really think he won''t be familiar with your Ge?"

    Mu Chenyan made a face at him, "Well, he is still a captain. My Ge is actually is a General!"

    "The way you feel so proud talking about your Ge, it really makes me wonder why he hasn''t been able to fix his rtionship with his father in all these years."

    She sighed out as she said, "Maybe because Elder Xiang values his granddaughter a lot more than his son." She looked at Shui Koshing and continued, "He can forgive Ge for whatever he did to him but he can''t forgive him for what he did to Raelle."

    Shui Koshing pressed his lips and contemted her words before nodding his head. It did seem like Elder Xiang loved Raelle a lot more than he loved his own son.

    "But does it not bother him that Raelle is not the only granddaughter he has?"

    Mu Chenyan''s expressions froze for a split second before her shoulders ckened, "Don''t bring that up. No one can take our Elle''s ce in Elder Xiang''s life. Even if that person is Elle''s blood-rted sibling!"

    "Isn''t it unfair to her siblings?" asked Shui Koshing.

    Mu Chenyan was incensed as she retorted, "And what her parents did to her was fair? Her siblings got their parents, what did she get?!" Shui Koshing was taken aback by the sudden change in Mu Chenyan. She was always very gentle and kind but it seemed he ended up poking where he wasn''t supposed to. Taking a deep breath, Mu Chenyan went on, "I''m sorry, Shing Ge. But please, don''t bring it up again."

    "I won''t," replied Shui Koshing without hesitation. He didn''t feel like mentioning it anymore either.

 Chapter 83 - Something Very Sweet

    Coming back to Raelle''s side...

    The dinner had already ended and the three of them left the restaurant together. Raelle''s eyes had been wandering around for a while but settled on Hyson''s clothes as she said, "Even if you wanted to appear casual, why does it have to be a hoodie again?" She really found his choice of clothes an eyesore! Whenever they met in public, he''d either have a baseball cap or a hoodie on.

    Hyson gave her an unhappy look, "Hoodies are one of the most powerful and underappreciated articles of clothing." He genuinely believed in his argument! And felt unhappy at her best friend questioning his choice of clothing.

    "Oh? How so?" questioned Raelle.

    "Feeling cold? Just put on a hoodie. It''s raining? It''s a hoodie day! Have nothing to wear? No, you do! There is a hoodie! Hiding from fans? You already know it! See? How versatile and multifaceted!"

    Raelle lifted her hands and pulled the drawstrings of his hoodie until only the tip of his nose was visible, she tied a knot as she said, "If you''re hiding, do it the proper way!"

    Hyson iled his hands around as he couldn''t see anything now and groaned in frustration, "See? This is how you give me trouble all the time!"

    By the time he fixed his hoodie, Raelle had already taken a seat in Shui Xian''s car. Hyson looked at her for a moment before he suddenly recalled something. He tapped on her window and motioned her to open it.

    Raelle took a moment before she pressed the button to let the windowpane down. "What is it now?"

    "I told you already. Mum send a gift for the newlyweds," said Hyson. "Give me a minute. Let me get it from the car." He soon came back with two boxes in his hand. One was a bigger one and the other was a rtively smaller one. He passed the smaller one to Raelle saying, "Here! This one is from mum."

    Raelle took it and ced it in the backseat. She didn''t n on opening the gift right now. Meanwhile, Hyson passed the bigger box to Shui Xian with a grin, "I''ve already given her the wedding gift. How can I leave you out? So, this is for you!"

    Raelle intercepted this exchange as she said, "There is nothing good inside."

    "You don''t trust me?" Hyson gave her a wronged look.

    "Your gifts are always no good," she replied without missing a beat.

    "This one is good. The thing inside is very useful!"

    Raelle looked at him for a minute before she snatched the box from his hand and pulled off the ribbon right before his eyes, Hyson instinctively took a step back. Raelle''s expressions didn''t even change as she looked at the content of the box but Shui Xian''s eyes had gone wide before he snatched the box from her and closed the lid.

    However, he soon realized that his reaction seemed odd. Was there really a need to react like that?

    Raelle turned her head towards Hyson who scratched his head, "Mum says, it''s very important to stay safe and use protection. We are all adults here. There is no need to feel shy about this."

    Raelle beckoned him closer and Hyson took a step towards her rather reluctantly. If he could, he wouldn''t want to step closer to her but he had no choice before her. As he got close, Raelle lifted her hand and Hyson intuitively closed his eyes as if expecting a hit. However, the hit he had expected didn''te. Instead, his head was patted by her soft hand as he heard her say, "For the very first time, I truly like your gift."

    Hyson''s eyes opened wide and he stared at her dumbfoundedly. What was this reaction? His best friend justplimented him. Woah! He must be dreaming!

    Shui Xian almost choked on air at Raelle''spliment. He looked at the box in his hand that was filled with the wide variety of condoms and felt speechless. Something was definitely wrong with how his wife''s brain worked. That was for certain! Or maybe that was the new normal and he was too old to understand it?

    Hyson''s grin graced his face again as he said, "Use it well!" With that, he waved his hand at them and bid them goodbye before running away.

    Shui Xian was quiet for a moment before his gaze shifted to Raelle who was looking ahead with an expressionless face. Raelle noticed how Shui Xian wasn''t starting the car and turned her head. As their eyes met, she questioned, "What''s wrong? Why aren''t we leaving?"

    Shui Xian pressed the button of her seatbelt and as she noticed it, she was heaved onto hisp by him with such coquettish affinity. Raelle blinked in confusion as she raised her head and peered into his amber eyes.

    Shui Xian ced his chin on her shoulder and took a deep breath letting her scent overwhelm his senses. She definitely didn''t use any perfume but she had a faint scent of roses on her. It must be her shower gel, he thought to himself. His eyes were closed and he seemed to be resting.

    Raelle didn''t disturb him. She neither asked him why he was acting like this nor did she push him away. They had already been intimate with each other, this action didn''t seem odd to her. In fact, it made her want to lean into him and she did. Shui Xian felt her body rxing and the corners of his lips curved up imperceptibly.

    He ced his hand on her head and rubbed it gently as he said, "It seems my wife really loves giving me odd surprises."

    "Huh? What did I do?" asked Raelle looking rather confused about his words.

    Shui Xian lifted his chin off her shoulder and stared into her eyes as he shook his head, "Nothing." Before he dropped a chaste kiss on her lips.

    "That''s not a kiss," said Raelle as she looked back at him.

    "Oh?"

    Raelle nodded, "Because I tasted nothing."

    Shui Xian chuckled at her words before his finger hooked up and traced the bridge of her nose as he said, "That''s strange. I tasted something very sweet."

    Raelle touched her lips and said out, "Why don''t I get to taste that sweetness?"

 Chapter 84 - Simple Touch Of His Wife

    By the time Raelle and Shui Xian came home, Shui Koshing had already gone to sleep. He usually slept early after taking his medication. It was onlyst night when he dyed taking his medicine because he felt like ying around with Raelle. Tonight, however, he followed his usual pattern.

    Naturally, Raelle or Shui Xian would not disturb him at all. They went straight to their room. Shui Xian went to take the shower while Raelle took off her suit jacket before she fell down on the couch and let her body sink into it. She propped her feet on the stool that was ced nearby.

    She held her phone as she scrolled through the messages. Raelle''s personal number was only known to few people. Even her business partners had to get to her through Cloe or use her email to contact her. And no one couldin about that either since Raelle Xiang would never give her number to random people.

    So, currently, the very familiar four people had texted her.

    Cloe: Chief, I ordered the phone you asked me to. It''ll be delivered to the address you gave me.

    Raelle nodded her head in satisfaction. Even if Cloe was in a bad mood because of her personal condition, she was still very efficient. That was one of the biggest reasons, Raelle valued this assistant.

    Yanyan: My dear Elle, did you have a good time with your husband and your best friend? I am sure you did. Now, have a good rest. Don''t stay upte to work.

    Raelle pressed the record button and sent a short voice message in reply, "You also have a good rest." Obviously, she wasn''t actually gonna bother typing that message.

    The third message was from someone she had gone out to meet today...

    Hyson: Use my gift wisely! *wink emoji*

    "Scram!" she sent him a voice message as well.

    Thest person who texted her was actually a bit unusual. Because the message was from Hyson''s mother. Although Raelle only met her a few times, she had a very good impression of her. And since she was Hyson''s best mom, how could she not have Raelle''s personal number? But it was very rare for her to reach out to Raelle.

    Mother Yue: I hope you like the gift. I wanted to give it to you personally but it''s alright. I just hope my best wishes are able to apany you on this new journey. Congrattions on your marriage! May you both always see heart to heart!

    Raelle read her message three times before her eyes wandered over to the gift box she had ced on the bed aftering back. Her fingers tapped on the armrest for a minute before she stood up and went to the bed. She sat down on the edge and ced the gift box on herp. Only now she noticed that a beautiful picture of a bride and groom was drawn with a silver pen on the lid of the ck box.

    She had just untied the ribbon when the bathroom door opened which caught her attention and she lifted her eyes. At first, she was only gonna nce once before shifting her attention back to the thing at hand but the sight before her made her eyes stare fixedly.

    Shui Xian''s half-naked body was right in front of her as he stood beside the bathroom door. When Shui Xian closed the door of the bathroom, he noticed Raelle looking at him and told her, "Oh, I forgot to take my clothes."

    Raelle looked at the white towel hanging loosely around his lower body like it about to fall any minute now and nodded her head. But even while doing so, her eyes didn''t leave his body. His lean figure looked enticing because of the recent shower he had just taken. And let''s not forget that perfect V-shaped body. Even the lines below his hips were prominent. How could one not look?

    While Shui Xian moved towards the walk-in closet, he could still feel her eyes on his back. He couldn''t help but stop as he turned around to ask, "Wifey, stop looking already!"

    Raelle shrugged her shoulders, "What''s the problem? I''m looking at my personal property. Am I not allowed to look at my own personal property now?"

    Shui Xian pressed his lips together as he looked at her. Earlier in the evening, she had said he belonged to her. And now he was her personal property. If he said anything, she was definitely gonna say she had legal proof of this.

    However, who said he was gonna question her?

    Although his wife had so much bookish knowledge, she was really not ying by the book. So, he had to follow along on that route as well.

    He changed the trajectory and tooknguid steps towards her. And as he came closer, Raelle had to tilt her head to look at his face but who the hell was looking at his face? Raelle''s attention was still on his bare body that looked like a work of art. Perfectly carved! Immacte! And so close now!

    Shui Xian could see that her eyes had no such thing as lust. They were still just a pair of eyes brimming with innocence. But he wondered how such innocent eyes made his body heat up? This didn''t make sense!

    Raelle had rolled up the sleeves of her white button-up after she had taken off her suit jacket. The front two buttons of her shirt were also undone, giving a peek of her cor bones. Shui Xian held her wrist and ced her hand on his abdominal muscles as he said, "I''m sure only looking is not enough."

    Raelle obviously wouldn''t reject this offer. Her hand moved up to the symmetrically bnced muscles on his chest as she traced down every muscle on his upper body ever so slowly. And while her fingers feather-like touch continued, Shui Xian felt like he just dug his own grave!

    Clearly, she was unaffected but the way her hand was ying around definitely was leaving a burning trail behind. It was scorching hot.

    It was like she was challenging him in her own way. The abstinence he kept for years was being transformed into a want for decadence under her touch. He had always been proud of his self-control but at this moment, he felt like his resolve was crumbling under merely the simple touch of his wife.

 Chapter 85 - Pleasure

    Raelle had no clue about the effect she had on Shui Xian. Her hand was genuinely moving around on instinct or rather pure curiosity. The skin under her hand felt smooth but the muscles were hard. This striking contrast was really interesting. And that''s why her hand wantonly ran over Shui Xian''s bare upper body.

    However, when she nced at Shui Xian''s face, she paused for a minute. There was something strange about his expressions. Something she wasn''t yet familiar with. She noticed his clenched jaw and taut muscles. He was restraining himself. But from what?

    Soon, she realized that the cause of Shui Xian''s internal struggle was herself. Because whenever her hand caressed his skin, his eyes would darken. How amusing!

    ''I want to see more!'' was what she thought in her head.

    Her hand suddenly held the towel wrapped around his lower body. No, she didn''t pull it off. Instead, she had held it right where Shui Xian had secured it by rolling it inward and actually, pulled him with a sudden tug.

    Shui Xian was caught off guard and lost his momentum as his body fell over. But in fear that his weight would crush her, he instinctively ced both his hands beside her body to support himself up.

    He had no idea exactly when had she even moved the gift box from herp to a side. He was so caught up in trying to maintain his self-control that he hadn''t noticed what she was up to.

    His breath blew on her face as he asked, "Wifey, what are you up to?"

    Raelle tilted her head a little as she replied, "I''m about to try again."

    "Try again?"

    Those words had just left his mouth when Raelle wrapped her arms around his neck to pull his head down before interlocking their lips together. It was an intense liplock that surprised Shui Xian. Certainly, his wife was a fast learner no matter the subject, she''d always do her best!

    Their lips moved fast against each other and they only parted when they both needed to breathe in some oxygen.

    "Try again to taste the sweetness you got to taste but I didn''t." She gave him the answer he had asked for earlier. Shui Xian wasn''t sure about how to tell her how or why he was able to taste that sweetness? He was uncertain himself even now.

    Raelle licked her already moist lips while Shui Xian''s darkened with lust. Was she really oblivious to what she was doing to him or was she doing it on purpose? Either way, it was very effective. Shui Xian was aroused and he once again realized that his self-control was powerless before this woman. Because whenever she was around, his body wanted her!

    He was never the one to indulge in lust but why was everything useless before her?

    "Do you even realize what you''re doing to me?"

    While Raelle blinked at him calmly, he held her hand and guided it down to the ce between his legs. Through the cover of only a towel, it was even easier for Raelle to feel his burning, throbbing erection. Something shed in her eyes.

    Raelle''s eyes moved down to that ce. And for a minute, Shui Xian felt like he wasn''t even wearing that towel. Her gaze was prating and even if it seemed nk, he couldn''t help feeling like her eyes were burning him.

    While he was distracted, Raelle had already rolled over, alternating their position. Now, it was Shui Xian who was under her body as she sat on top of his stomach. Shui Xian looked at her as her hair came undone and cascaded down beautifully.

    Raelle leaned down and caught his lips again. Shui Xian cupped her face and tilted it for better ess as he returned the kiss with equal pressure. He tugged at her lower lip as if asking for permission and when Raelle parted her lips to grant it, his tongue entered her mouth and discovered hers without hesitation. Their lips moved hurriedly against each other as they both could feel each other''s hot tongues fighting for dominance.

    His hands ached to touch her skin and that''s why his hand worked on the buttons of her shirt. He didn''t pull itpletely off of her. He had only unbuttoned her shirt while his hands deftly continued to caress her ribcage. Soon, his hands went around to cup her hips. Raelle didn''t know about other sensations, but she could definitely feel the movements of his hands and she could also feel something wet crawling between her thighs as they both continued to ravish each other.

    Her breathing was rugged as she pulled away to gaze at him and said, "I still don''t taste it."

    Although her face was straight as sheined, Shui Xian felt like he could see a pout that made his body itch to take her!

    He took a deep breath and asked, "Are you disappointed?"

    He thought he saw a wicked glint in her eyes before she leaned closer to his ear and said, "Not really." With that, her tongue darted out and Shui Xian''s body stiffened when he felt the soft, hot, and wet touch on his ear. Did she already figure out that he had sensitive ears?!

    A groan escaped from his mouth and Raelle stopped for a split second but then, her lips caught his earlobes and sucked on them without hesitation. As for what prompted her to continue, wasn''t it all Shui Xian''s fault? He was the perpetrator who incited her.

    Who told him to show so many different expressions that she hadn''t seen before? Her curiosity would obviously get the best of her. After all, she wanted to see all of his reactions. Every expression of his! And there was a bit of satisfaction within her knowing that all these varying expressions were because of her!

    She mightck the seven emotions, her six desires were perfectly intact. In fact, since her emotions were dormant, it allowed her desires to be rampant once in a while. And since sleeping with her husband once, a new desire had ignited within her which she was not yet very familiar with. She had been introduced to the desire for ''pleasure'' and it was one she sought right now!

    Note: Six desires of humans arise from six senses: Eyes (to see a beautiful thing), Nose (to smell pleasant fragrances), Tongue (To taste delicious food), Ears (to hear harmonious sounds and speech), Body (to feel pleasure), and mind (to desire sess, beauty).

 Chapter 86 - Beguilingly Gorgeous

    ***18+ WARNING!***

    Shui Xian already knew that his wife was bold and beautiful. If she wanted something, she''d never wait for someone to give it to her. She''d rather take it herself. As long as she could, she''d never let herself be wronged. Her body moved purely on instinct and desire.

    Soon, Shui Xian''s mind nked when he felt her first bite on his neck. Just as he had done to her previously on their honeymoon; she sucked, nibbled, and licked on the side of his neck. Shui Xian had to bite his lower lip to hold back the sound that threatened to escape from his throat.

    Raelle however, didn''t like that. As her eyes fell on him trying to control his voice, her eyes narrowed slightly before she leaned down and captured his bottom lip with her teeth. Shui Xian gasped as she had bitten a little harder.

    "Don''t bite it," Shui Xian felt like her voice held some warning to it. "If you like it so much, I can bite it for you."

    Shui Xian almost rolled his eyes at her words but didn''t. With his eyes on her movements, he grasped her opened shirt and slid it down her shoulders revealing her round and beautiful shoulders.

    Raelle also leaned down to bite on his heaving chest, right in the middle. After she was done, she looked at the mark she left on his body with satisfaction. She finally knew how those mosquito bites came about. Also, one should always mark one''s territory unless some random bug get other ideas!

    A guttural groan escaped him as her body moved and his hard erection pressed against her heat. Raelle looked at his face unblinkingly as her pelvis moved against his evident hardness through theyer of fabrics that separated their skin from touching directly. The friction created made it really hard for Shui Xian to stay still.

    He reached behind to unhook her bra with just one hand. His calloused, manly fingers slowly trailed down the straps from her shoulders. Raelle let the material out of her arms and let her blossompletely exposed before his darkened eyes.

    He wrapped an arm around her waist before shifting their position once again. The contrast between her fully dressed lower body and fully naked upper body made the picture before him even more enticing and alluring. No matter what, he couldn''t deny the truth that he hummed out, "Wifey, you''re beguilingly gorgeous."

    Raelle looked at the way his eyes roamed over her body and replied, "I know."

    Shui Xian''s eyes instantly went up to meet hers as she stared back at him without hesitation. He knew she was a beauty but was it alright for her topliment herself? And then it suddenly hit him. Her confidence and boldness came from this very eptance of herself. She didn''t think she had any ws. Even when people called her an emotionless robot, the only reason she didn''t mind wasn''t that she was really emotionless. It was because she had long epted her very core wholeheartedly.

    That allowed her to bloom out of the mud like a lotus flower. People''s opinions never got to her just like the mud could never blemish the beauty of a lotus flower. They say, ''The lotus flower blooms most beautifully from the deepest and thickest mud.'' She was also like that. The more people putbels on her, the more beautiful she bloomed and the more unbothered she got.

    He bent down and his mouth instantly fell on her aroused bud. The sudden hot contact made Raelle''s hips arch a little off the bed and brushed against him as he rolled her nipple and sucked on it. Raelle could tell that because of what he did to her nipple, something shot directly to her core. She had recently been introduced to what that something was. This was the ''pleasure'' she was looking for.

    His other hand cupped her other breast, the pad of his thumb teased her bud making her moan quietly. Meanwhile, Raelle''s hands went down to his towel that was stubbornly sticking to his body even now! She thought after this much rolling around, it would fall like a good boy. Who knew it''d be so stubborn wanting to cling to her husband?

    So, she dly tore it away from her husband. Shui Xian''s mouth paused slightly and before he could continue, her hands held his throbbing hardness with her soft hands. Raelle noticed how his amber eyes seemed an even darker shade now. She could feel his hardness throb in her hands. She could feel it scorching hot. In fact, she could also feel the sticky substance that leaked from the tip.

    She actually didn''t do anything else. Even Shui Xian could tell that she was clueless about what to do. And this ignorance of hers seemed, even more, cuter than before. Shui Xian sucked in a cold breath as her soft hands innocently traced his length. He thought he''de right there and then! But he had to control himself.

    He couldn''t lose before his wife! Taking another deep breath, he kissed up from between the valley of her breasts, kissing along her neck gently till he reached her lips. Unlike her, he didn''t bite or sucked. He just peppered her with soft and gentle kisses. However, when their lips met again, it was anything was gentle.

    His hand unbuttoned her pants as his hand slid inside her pants and touched her core.

    "Wait!"

    Shui Xian looked into her eyes and she put her hand in her pants pocket. Soon, a condom appeared right before Shui Xian''s eyes as he heard her say, "I never thought my best friend would be so useful once."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips at her and said, "This proves his usefulness?" He actually was wondering when or how did she even manage to sneak that condom out? He had taken the box from her hands almost instantly. Andter on, he didn''t even bring the box out of the car. It was still there with all the shopping bags.

    "For once, he is useful," repeated Raelle clearly insulting Hyson while she was at it. This was definitely an insult disguised as apliment!

 Chapter 87 - In A Pair

    When Shui Xian opened his eyes in the morning, the first thing he did was turn his head to the other side but as usual, he didn''t find his wife sleeping beside him. She was awake earlier than him yet again.

    Suddenly, the events ofst night shed through his mind. It had been intense than their first time since she was being so proactive. And that''s why he was really surprised that even after all that vigorous exercise she didn''t want to sleep in. Even he felt like he wanted toze around in bed for a little longer.

    The bathroom door opened and Raelle appeared before his eyes with a bathrobe tied around her. She looked at Shui Xian and greeted him, "Good morning, Hubby!" He replied to her as he sat up and leaned against the headboardzily. However, his eyes kept following her around as he was trying to find any signs of fatigue on her face but wasn''t able to.

    But apart from fatigue, he got to see something even more interesting. For instance, those red marks that were littered everywhere below her neck.

    "What are you looking at?" asked Raelle when she noticed him looking at her so intently.

    "I''m just wondering," he replied. "How do you manage to look so energetic and fresh every morning?"

    "Because I''m awesome!" she said to him making him smile at her. She took out her outfit for the day before she dried her hair. Meanwhile, Shui Xian still hadn''t moved from the bed. He was constantly following her movements.

    Shui Xian had to agree that she was awesome. He couldn''t deny it. At least, her stamina was super awesome. Did he feel tired because he was getting old? Shui Xian instantly shook his head to shake off this thought out of his mind. Even though he was older than her that didn''t mean he was THAT old.

    But he really needed to do something to match her energetic self.

    After she dried her hair, she suddenly recalled something and left everything right where it was before hurriedly going back to the bed and crouched down to get the gift box that she had left therest night.

    "You didn''t open itst night?" asked Shui Xian when he noticed what she was up to.

    "I was going to," began Raelle. "But you distracted me."

    "I did?" he pointed at himself and Raelle inly nodded her head. "Okay," was all he could say in return to her. If she said he distracted her, then that must be the case. He knew if he tried to say otherwise, she''d still end up making him believe that he was the reason for her distraction. So, he decided not to waste time on that pointless argument. He''d just take it as apliment that he was able to distract Raelle Xiang from something.

    Raelle opened the box and the very first thing that greeted her was a red envelope that had a blessing written on it as follows, ''May fragrant flowers bloom and full moon shine over your life together.''

    "What does it mean?" she questioned.

    Shui Xian noticed her confusion and beckoned her, "Come here." Raelle came to stand beside him and he held her wrist as he pulled her down making her sit right beside him. He ced his chin on her shoulder naturally and looked at the red envelope. "She''s blessing us to have a happy married life."

    Raelle looked at those words then her eyes moved towards the side of his face that was now very close because of how he was almost leaning on her.

    "There is something else as well," said Shui Xian and took the small rectangr box within. As he opened it, he smiled, "This is hand carved." Seeing how she was blinking at him confusion again, he borated, "This is a pair of Mandarin Ducks. We can hang it in our room." Shui Xian was impressed by the delicate and petite pair of jade Mandarin Ducks. He could easily tell that someone had made this with love.

    "Why?" she questioned.

    "Mandarin Ducks are a long treasured Feng Shui symbol of uniquelyplimentary love in our tradition and are also known to mate for life." Raelle listened to him with all her attention. His voice could be heard right beside her ear and everytime he opened his mouth, his breath would hit her neck. "It''s a belief that their loving energy attracts suitable romantic partners into your life or enhances and inspires the current partnerships."

    "Does it even work? Is there a scientific proof that this thing works?"

    Shui Xian ced his hand on her head as he said, "Not everything needs to be scientifically proven. Some beliefse from the heart and what makes those beliefs strong is the faith."

    "I didn''t understand a thing," she retorted. "But it sounds like it''s a good thing. So, where should we hang it?"

    Shui Xian rubbed her head, "Anywhere you want." Shui Xian picked up thest thing from the gift box and said, "Hyson''s mother has put some serious thought into this gift."

    "Isn''t it just a pair of chopsticks?" Raelle asked as she looked at the pair of chopsticks in his hand. Shui Xian shook his head at her and rotated the chopsticks. Raelle''s eyes caught sight of something and she said out, "Oh, our names are engraved on it. And the date of our marriage registration as well."

    Shui Xian''s eyes softened, "Exactly! These are custom made chopsticks. In fact, chopsticks represents happiness. Practically, these represents that she is giving us happiness." Shui Xian felt really touched by these seemingly simple but extremely meaningful gifts. It showed how much Hyson''s mom had put thought into it all.

    After all, even she''d know that Raelle didn''tck anything in her life. So, instead of giving anything materialistic, she chose to go with something meaningful.

    "Also, let''s not forget that chopsticks alwayse in a pair. Just like husband and wife. Now, tell me if we lose one chopstick, can you eat with the other alone?" Raelle shook her head in reply and he went on, "That''s how husband and wife can''t go without each other. They have to work in perfect harmony."

    Raelle nodded her head thoughtfully, "That means you and I alsoe in a pair."

    Shui Xian''s lips pressed against the back of her neck as he replied, "Yes, we do."

 Chapter 88 - No Time For Me

    "Now I understand why you don''t like gifts," said Shui Xian as he nuzzled into her hair. "You need someone to help you interpret the meaning behind those gifts."

    Raelle stayed quiet in reply. One could say that she really needed someone to interpret the meaning behind gifts. Especially, if the gifts were symbolic and meaningful. Because she''d definitely not be understanding the thoughts or emotions put into a gift. However, that was not the only reason.

    "You''re not wrong. But I have another reason... I don''t like taking anything from people," she told him. "Even if it''s just a gift. I''d rather take what I want on my own than allow someone else to get it for me instead."

    Shui Xian paused before he wrapped his one arm around her waist. "Then from now, I''ll make sure to interpret everything you can''t understand." Raelle tilted her head to look at him as he went on, "Also, you can''t say no to my gifts."

    "Why can''t I?"

    Shui Xian deadpanned, "Because I have the legal right to give my wife gifts. Do you want me to show you the legal proof of that?"

    "You''re using my words against me," she pointed out and Shui Xian smiled at her. Raelle looked at his smile for a while in silence before saying, "You''ve been smiling a lot sincest night."

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "My wife''s orders. I have to follow, no?"

    Raelle opened her mouth to say something but didn''t say it. Because suddenly, she didn''t know what to say.

    "By the way, are you very close to Hyson''s mother?" asked Shui Xian. "I mean is your rtionship with her is the same as Hyson?"

    "She is someone who taught me a lot," replied Raelle honestly. "Her position in my life might not be the same as Yanyan but it isn''t much different either." She tapped on his arm around her waist saying, "Now let me go, I have to get ready for work."

    "What if I don''t want to?" retorted Shui Xian. He was constantly observing her expressions. She certainly had face paralysis because one couldn''t see anything through her face. But her eyes would really give her away in some way. Although the changes in her eyes were minute, he found it quite interesting.

    When Raelle had mentioned that he had been smiling a lot sincest night, he only realized then that he had indeed been smiling a lot. Whether it was because she said she liked to see his smile or was it because whenever she was around, his lips would curve up instinctively, he didn''t know the real reason. However, whatever the reason was, he didn''t care. He had led a life like an ice block for far too long now.

    Besides, seeing how his wife had facial paralysis, he had to exercise his facial muscles. Only one expressionless person was already enough in this family.

    "Why not?" questioned Raelle when he refused to let her go.

    "Just because I don''t want to," he replied.

    "Why? You have to have a reason," she went on.

    Shui Xian gave her a look, "Wifey, not everything has a reason. Or should I say it this way... Sometimes, rather than trying to find the reasons, it''s better to enjoy the moment."

    Seeing how he seriously didn''t n on letting her go, she said, "But I''d bete for work."

    "It''s alright. You''re the boss, you can bete once in a while," he replied with a straight face. If his employees had heard him say that, they''d have kneeled before him. Clearly, he was the one who always said as a boss he should be setting an example by working hard and being on time, but now, he was the one saying it was alright?!

    "If I''mte, my whole schedule will be messed up," said Raelle as she took her iPad from her pillow and showed him the screen. "See! I have to follow this precisely!"

    Shui Xian was a bit surprised to see how her schedule had been nned. There were indeed specific times set for each activity. Even the phone call with her grandfather and Mu Chenyan was listed. And it could onlyst for 10 minutes. No more!

    However, when his eyes fell on thest thing on the schedule, he was left staring silently at it. It read... ''6:30 pm onwards - Husband''s Time.''

    Clearly, it was a very simple or maybe a stupid thing to do but why did his heart skip a beat over such a thing? He must be crazy to feel touched by something like this. But how to say it... Perhaps it was because no one had ever set aside a specific time for him before.

    Raelle waited for him to respond but he kept looking at her intently. "I can let you go but I have a question."

    "What is it?"

    "Why do you like to see my smile?" he asked the question he had been meaning to ask sincest night. "Is it really because you find it beautiful?"

    "It is beautiful," Raelle stressed on her words as she repeated it. "I''ll say it like this, without a smile you look like a precious sculpture but when you smile, it''s like the warm sun shines upon that sculpture breathing in life and warmth into it."

    Shui Xian chuckled softly before he let her go and went to the bathroom. Raelle looked at the closed door of the bathroom before she took her clothes and got dressed. By the time, he came out she was all set to go as she was gathering her things.

    Today, she wore a printed jumper with tan trousers, a tan trench coat was ced on her arm. She was wearing red boots and red gloves on her hands. She definitely looked bold like herself and sophisticated.

    She nced up at him and said, "I''ll wait for you at breakfast."

    "Wait!"

    "Hm?" Raelle looked back at him.

    "I just realized, in your schedule, there is no time for a phone call with me."

 Chapter 89 - Used It Well

    Raelle didn''t even have to mentally go through her own schedule to know that he was right. There was indeed no specific time nned for a phone call with him. But there was a reason for that.

    "I''m with you in the morning and in the evening," said Raelle. "Is there a need to have a phone call as well?"

    "There is," he retorted.

    Raelle thought about it for a minute before saying, "When should I call you then?" Shui Xian nked out for a second. Even though he was the one who brought it up, why was he the one nking out now? It must be because he didn''t think she''d agree so easily. "You need to give me a time so that I know I won''t be disturbing your work with my phone call."

    "How about the lunch hour?" suggested Shui Xian.

    "Lunch hour?" she repeated. "You want me to call you for a whole hour?"

    "Why? You can''t?" he asked with a straight face.

    Raelle shrugged her shoulders, "Fine. Lunch hour it is then." She took a pause, "Is there anything else?"

    Shui Xian thought about it and pointed out, "I didn''t see any time set aside for Hyson either."

    "He and I often don''t contact each other for weeks," replied Raelle honestly. "And whenever we do, it''s unnned. He says we don''t need to talk to each other daily to prove our friendship because even if there is a distance of hundreds and thousands of miles between us, our rtionship won''t change."

    Shui Xian could only nod at that. It did seem like even with the distance between them, their rtionship was closer than friends that''d meet daily. He really admired that.

    "If there is nothing else, I''m gonna wait for you downstairs."

    Saying that she turned around and left the room. At the breakfast table, Raelle greeted Shui Koshing before she took a seat and continued to look through her iPad.

    "How was your dinnerst night?" questioned Shui Koshing.

    "It was good," answered Raelle. "Did you have dinner with Opa and Yanyan?"

    "I did," said Shui Koshing. "And I must say, it was a good idea. I enjoyed myself very much." He took a pause before adding, "And that''s why I''ve decided to listen to my daughter more often from now on."

    Raelle offered him one of her practiced polite smiles before she looked at the cellphone that was ringing beside her. The call was from Hyson and she didn''t take it immediately. As she had told Shui Xian, she and Hyson really didn''t contact each other daily. Buttely, the frequency of their interaction was increasing.

    Of course, she won''t say it but she actually didn''t mind it.

    Even though Hyson was still as ''troublesome'' to her as he had been when they first met, but it won''t change the fact that he was the ''trouble'' she was most familiar with.

    Since she was working on her iPad, she attended the call and put it on speaker.

    "What?" she asked without any ''hello'' or ''hi''.

    "You sent this brand new phone?" came a groggy voice that made Shui Koshing also look up at Raelle.

    "Did you just get it now?" she questioned in return instead of answering him.

    "No, it was delivered in the middle of the night but I was sleeping at that time," told Hyson. "But that means you really sent it. Why did you?"

    "You asked for itst night," reminded Raelle.

    "You know I was joking," Hyson shot back.

    "And you know I don''t joke," said Raelle shutting Hyson up. "Hold on a minute! If you just got the phone, how did you send me that messagest night?"

    Hyson rolled his eyes at how she just noticed that and said, "My dying phone still has some leftover breath in it."

    "Oh, the phone is just like the owner of it."

    "Did you just insult me?"

    Raelle took a sip of her milk tea before saying, "Since you gave me a giftst night, let''s just say I returned the favor with that phone. We''re even! Now don''t bother about anything and just use the phone. It''s not like I can return it."

    Hyson took a deep breath before saying, "The gift I gave you..."

    "I used it well, thank you!" Before he could even continue, her words made him choke up on air.

    She could hear Hyson''s cough from the other side but there was another person who ended up coughing when he heard this. That was Shui Xian who just came down and heard her saying thatst sentence.

    Seeing his father giving him a strange look, Shui Xianposed himself and silently sat beside his wife.

    It took Hyson a while to say, "Ellie, I gave that gift to you because I was trying to joke around with you."

    "Then let''s just say by giving this gift, I''m also trying to joke around with you."

    "This joke isn''t even funny!" Hyson shot back almost immediately. Although he had been the one who told her to buy her the phone, he really didn''t mean it. But she again took him seriously. That''s why he had always been so cautious to say anything around her. Buying him ice cream and buying him a phone were two very different things!

    When was she gonna understand that?

    "Hyson, is there a mirror around you?"

    Hearing her question Hyson looked at the mirror in the foyer and replied, "Yes, there is."

    "Go and take a look."

    "Why?"

    "Everything will seem funny once you look at your face," she replied.

    "Argh!" Hyson''s lips twitched for a moment before he burst out, "If you had been here, I''d have pulled all your hair out and made you bald!"

    "Better luck next time!" said Raelle. "Oh, and tell your mother that I''d being to see her over the weekend."

    Hyson snorted, "You want to return her favor of the gift as well?"

    Raelle took a pause before saying, "No. I just want to eat something made by her." She didn''t exin anything further and hung up the call. She looked at both Shui father and son. Shui Xian was focused on putting food in Raelle''s te and Shui Koshing was focused on his son''s movements.

    Although they both heard the conversation, they both didn''t show any unnecessary reaction.

 Chapter 90 - An Even Bigger Mess

    Just as Raelle hung up the phone, on the other side, Hyson was left staring at his broken phone. He was thinking about how he gave her that gift to make her feel some embarrassment but howe he was the one left feeling embarrassed instead? Why did he forget that his best friend couldn''t feel stupid emotions like embarrassment?

    What did she say? She used it well? Was she really showing off?

    He heaved a long sigh and felt like someone was staring at him. He slowly turned his head around and found four pairs of eyes staring at him intently. Surprisingly, today all of his group members were present at the dorm. They were all gathered at the dining table and were currently waiting for him.

    "Why is everyone gathered here?" questioned Hyson as he stepped over and took a seat beside the group leader.

    The group leader, Lin Zhen crossed his arms over his chest and looked at the member sitting with his head lowered as he said, "Pei Zi Hong has something to say."

    Everyone looked at the one called Pei Zi Hong.

    The one sitting opposite Hyson who had a head full of red hair yawnedzily and said, "Then say what you have to say, I have to get back to my sleep."

    And the one beside him who had silver hair said, "And I have to get back to my game."

    "Wen Ge, are you ying so early in the morning?" questioned Hyson as he looked at the silver-haired man.

    "Aiyo, our innocent youngest," began Lin Zhen. "Your Wen Ge didn''t even sleepst night."

    Hyson stared wide-eyed at his Wen Ge. Although he had known all of them for seven years now, he still couldn''t get used to his Wen Ge''s gaming obsession. He''d spend every possible free time of his ying. He was the true embodiment of a homebody.

    Hyson gave him a thumbs up, "Wen Ge, I admire your passion." Then he turned his attention back to the one who was sitting like a convict while they seemed like the members of the jury who were waiting for a statement from the said convict. "Hong Ge, usually you''re the most talkative one. Howe you''re so quiet today?"

    Pei Zi Hong stood up and gave them all a deep bow saying, "Everyone, I''m extremely sorry for the trouble I''ve caused you all."

    The four of them shared a look but none of them said a word. The one who had been recently got caught in a scandal was Pei Zi Hong. And he was feeling extremely guilty since then. It was his matter and yet, because of him the rest of his group members had to suffer. He really didn''t know how to face any of them.

    "What are you apologizing for?" questioned Lin Zhen. "Are you sorry for dating?"

    Pei Zi Hong looked up and shook his head, "No, I''m sorry but it''s true that I love her. I can''t apologize to you for dating." He took a pause before adding, "I''m just sorry that because of my matters you all have to go through this. I know my apology won''t fix anything but I promise I''d do my best to fix everything."

    "And how will you fix it?" asked the red-haired guyzily. He looked rather bored and disinterested in this conversation.

    Pei Zi Hong bit his lip and thought about it before saying, "Even if I have to ask my family for help, I''ll make sure none of you have to suffer from the consequences of my decision."

    The rest of them again shared a look. Every one of them knew that Pei Zi Hong came from a wealthy family but he had given up on his family business to chase his own dream and passion. He hadn''t even gone home for years to protect his pride. But now to make sure that his members who had be like a family to him won''t suffer, he was willing to bow down and ask his family for help.

    Lin Zhen stood up and went up to his side. He patted his shoulder saying, "Zi Hong, none of us is ming you. Not even for a minute. You have the freedom to fall in love. And no one can take that right from you." Pei Zi Hong was left staring at his face as Lin Zhen continued, "In fact, the thing we had been upset about is that all of us had to learn about you dating someone through those stalker reporters. You call me Ge but is it alright to hide something like this from your Ge?"

    "Zhen Ge is right," began the silver-haired guy. "We should have been the first one to know about it. Even if falling in love is your personal matter, we thought we are a family. It just strange knowing that you didn''t trust us enough to share something like this with us."

    "I''m not good with words," said the red-haired guy. "So, I''ll let our youngest talk on my behalf."

    Hyson stared at him as he dropped the ball to his court and said, "Hong Ge, didn''t you leave your family to prove your worth? If you went back to ask for help now, wouldn''t it be akin to proving your mother right? And none of us want you to do that for us. It could have been any of us. The problem is not that you''re dating, the problem is why is it considered an issue? Our fans are allowed to date whomever they want but we are not? Do they expect us to stay celibate for life?"

    "Says the guy who hasn''t even had his first kiss yet," the red-haired guy piped in making Hyson give him a look.

    "Ge!"

    The red-haired guy raised his hands in defense, "Sorry! I wasn''t supposed to say that." Just as he had earlier said, he was really not good with words. He''d always say the wrong thing at the very wrong time. And that''s why the rest of them even had to keep an eye on him during their interactions with fans.

    Hyson could still remember a fan sign event where a fan told the red-haired guy that she was gonna marry him one day and he deadpanned in reply, ''Sorry, kiddo! But I don''t like young girls.'' That onement made all of them want to tape his mouth.

    However, currently, his remark made everyone chuckle and the mood lightened. Hyson red at them all, "You all don''t have to add insult to injury. One person in my life is enough to throw jabs at me." He was obviously talking about Raelle who also found a new interest in jabbing him with the fact that he hadn''t even had his first kiss. Why was everyone doing this to him?

    Hyson shook his head and continued, "Anyway, my point is that Hong Ge, you don''t have to worry. It''s not just your issue, it''s all of us. We are a team, after all. So, don''t worry, we''ll get out of it together." He might have felt down when he first learned about it, but he had gotten over it now.

    "We are not even bothered by it, you shouldn''t be as well," said the silver-haired guy. "In fact, I have already nned what to do with all this free time. Since it''s a luxury to have this much free time, I''m gonna cherish every minute of it."

    "By ying games?" questioned Lin Zhen.

    "Ge, don''t say it like I''m wasting my time," argued the silver-haired guy.

    "Why not?" retorted Lin Zhen.

    "Because I''m not just going to y games, I''ve signed up at the leading live streaming tform. I''m gonna do a gaming broadcast. Of course, I''ll remember to wear my mask while doing so."

    "I also have it all nned," the red-haired guy also chimed in. "I''ve signed up myself for a mental cleansing therapy session."

    "You mean you''re going to some secluded ce to sleep it off?" said Lin Zhen again. He had been with them for long enough to understand each of their personality well now.

    The red-haired guy coughed a little before saying, "Well, sleeping is the best therapy for both mind and body. Besides, I have worked so hard for years just so that I can sleep peacefully in myter years."

    "I have an audition," stated Hyson and everyone looked his way. "My fans found a striking resemnce between me and aic book character. Theic is being made into a live-action and because of how enthusiastic my fans had been to see me y that role, the casting director contacted thepany. I just received the message this morning."

    "I always said our youngest is gonna be at the top," said the silver-haired guy. "Ge is proud of you!"

    "I didn''t get the role yet," said Hyson.

    "We believe in you!" said all of them in unison and Hyson felt great listening to them.

    Lin Zhen looked at Pei Zi Hong and said, "See? We all have it figured out. We are not kids who need you to run back to your family to ask for help. We are adults and we should be cleaning our own messes."

    "But how can we get out of this mess?"

    "By creating an even bigger mess!" said Hyson earning himself strange gazes from everyone. Hyson grinned at them, "That''s what my best friend advised. Although she is entric, she is always right. The best way to get out of this mess is to create an even bigger mess. For instance, we need to make sure to do something that overshadows your dating scandal and makes it seem insignificant."

    "I agree!"

    "Me too!"

    Everyone agreed with his advice and Pei Zi Hong felt really touched and blessed to have this group of people in his life. Lately, he had received so much hate online that he began to question himself whether he had taken the right decision by bing an idol. He did his best to show his best side to his fans but they still turned their backs on him at the first chance they got.

    But now looking at this group of friends, he realized why he had been able to do his best for years now. It wasn''t because his fans helped him. They did encourage him somewhat but mostly it was because of these people around him. His fans saw the best side of him but they knew the worst of his side as well and yet didn''t turn their backs on him.

    If this wasn''t the biggest blessing than he didn''t know what else was.

 Chapter 91 - A Regret

    Back on Raelle''s side...

    While Raelle was eating, Shui Koshing suddenly suggested, "You should invite your best friend over for a meal."

    Raelle looked up at him as she questioned, "Why? We just had dinnerst night."

    "Well, I''d like to meet him. He seems to be a good person," said Shui Koshing.

    "What''s good about him?" said Raelle. "The only positive thing about him is his blood group."

    Shui Koshing chuckled a little at her remark and added, "Anyway, I''d like to meet him since he is your best friend. Isn''t that his biggest positive point?"

    "Oh..." was all Raelle said in reply before adding, "Okay. I''ll invite him."

    After the breakfast, as she left the dining room, Shui Xian excused himself and followed her out. He held her arm at the door as he stopped her. Raelle looked back at him with an inquisitive look in her eyes.

    "That... I was wondering if we''re really gonna have that match tonight?"

    Raelle recalled the conversation fromst night when Hyson dodged the bullet by directing it towards her husband and surprisingly, her husband was more than willing to get shot by that bullet.

    "Sure," replied Raelle. "Let''s do it."

    Shui Xian nodded his head and touched her nose like he had been doingtely as he said, "Have a good day."

    Raelle looked at the small smile ying on his lips before she beckoned him to lower his head. Shui Xian frowned slightly but obliged as he lowered his head. He was taken aback when she tapped his forehead with hers lightly and said, "Have a good day." With that, she turned around and descended the stairs to get inside the car.

    Shui Xian waited for her car to leave before he went back inside to finish his breakfast. Shui Koshing was still looking at his son with an obviously delighted look dancing in his eyes. He couldn''t seem to hide his happiness and neither did he want to do it.

    His son''s monotonous life finally had some colors, how could he not feel happy about it?

    "Son," he called out.

    "Hm..." Shui Xian hummed in reply.

    "Are you happy?"

    Shui Xian looked up at his father and asked in return, "You can''t tell from my face?"

    Shui Koshing smiled happily as he said, "I can finally die in peace now."

    "B¨¤!"

    "It''s not like I''m dying. I''m just saying it."

    "Then don''t say it as well," said Shui Xian unhappily. "You''re the only elder in this family. And I need you."

    "Once upon a time, you used to say you don''t need me because you''re old enough to take care of yourself. You''re old enough to make your own decisions," said Shui Koshing and Shui Xian''s movements paused slightly.

    He couldn''t argue with his father. Especially when he had actually been the one who said all that to him. He definitely hurt his father a lot in the past but it was the first time his father was bringing it up to him.

    "I was naive to think I didn''t need you," replied Shui Xian honestly. "No matter how old one gets, we always need our parents."

    "I feel good just hearing you say that," said Shui Koshing with a genuine smile on his face.

    Shui Xian took a moment before saying, "That brings me to the question... B¨¤, are Raelle''s parents dead?"

    Shui Koshing put down his newspaper. He had been expecting to have this conversation with his son sooner orter. Since Shui Xian hadn''t been interested in whom he was marrying, he didn''t question him anything. But now, after spending time with Raelle, it would be weird if he wasn''t curious about her.

    "Her parents are alive," replied Shui Koshing, and Shui Xian was surprised. "Very much alive."

    He hadn''t heard a thing about her parents. No one mentioned them. Even Raelle acted like they didn''t exist and it made him really believe that they''re dead. That''s why he had been more reluctant in bringing it up with Raelle herself.

    "But she acts like they don''t exist," Shui Xian pointed out.

    Shui Koshing looked at him before replying, "Because they don''t exist in her life."

    "Huh?" Shui Xian was confused by that statement.

    "To tell you the truth, I don''t know whether you should even hear about them or not. Because you definitely won''t hear about them from Raelle. And they''d never be a part of her life. So, it''d kinda pointless talking about it."

    "They are her parents, she must miss them somewhat?" Shui Xian pointed out.

    "Can you miss someone you''ve never met?" Shui Koshing asked in return and Shui Xian''s eyes opened wide in surprise. "She has never met her parents. She has never seen them either. In fact, she doesn''t even know their names."

    "What?!"

    "That is why I said, they don''t exist in her life," added Shui Koshing. "I''m told that there is special space allocated to certain people in her life." Shui Xian nodded as he had heard the same thing from Hysonst night as well. "But apparently, there is no space left for ''parents''."

    Shui Xian''s eyes went round as he was trying to understand the situation right now. "Why is it like that?"

    "Her parents found their divorce settlement a lot more important than their daughter," said Shui Koshing. "And that''s how they lost the right to even see her ever again."

    "She doesn''t want to see them either?" questioned Shui Xian. "I mean, she must have wanted to know about her parents."

    "Last night, I also asked the same question to Mu Chenyan. She told me that she brought Raelle to meet her parents when she was nine. However, Raelle was so against the idea of meeting them that she told her, ''Once you lose something, you can''t get it back the same way. You adults need to understand that I''m not a toy that you can throw away when you don''t like it and bring it back when you feel like it. I''m a person and I don''t want you to make decisions in my life. As adults, if you have taken a decision, stand by it. Instead of regretting your decision, one should own it. Since they have left me already, they should not be regretting it now. Otherwise, it''d make my whole existence turn into a regret.''"

    Shui Xian was left stunned by those words.

 Chapter 92 - Something Terrible

    Shui Xian didn''t know what he could say to that. "It seems my wife had a habit of making people speechless even at that age." He really didn''t know whether to say that she was very mature even at that age or find it very sad that she matured too early. Someone at that age should be enjoying the beauty of childhood, not living the cruelty of life.

    "She had never been like other kids her age," said Shui Koshing. "Her brain development had been exceptional. And even though she can''t differentiate between emotions, she is certainly very good at handling it all."

    Shui Xian''s finger was tracing the seam of the cup ced before him as he stared ahead absentmindedly. With a lot of things running through his mind, he wasn''t sure about what to say. "B¨¤, what about her parents? Did they never tried to meet her either?"

    "Uncle Yu would never let theme near her," said Shui Koshing.

    "Why is that so?" questioned Shui Xian. He didn''t think Grandfather Xiang was an unreasonable person. And he had seen how much he loved Raelle which made it harder for him to believe that he''d want to keep her away from her parents.

    "That I''m not very clear about," stated Shui Koshing honestly. "Although I don''t know the exact details of what really happened back then, however, I''m certain it was nothing good. In fact, I believe something terrible happened. Because whenever I so much as bring up this topic, both Uncle Yu and Chenyan have a strange reaction."

    "So you think there is more to this?" asked Shui Xian with furrowed brows.

    Shui Koshing nodded his head in reply, "There is definitely more to it but don''t go around asking Raelle about this."

    "B¨¤, why would I ask her?" Shui Xian looked at his father as he went on, "She was too young to even know what conspired at the time of her birth."

    "She knows," said Shui Koshing.

    "Huh?"

    "There is no such thing as secrets between Uncle Yu and Raelle. She likes absolute transparency in her life. If something is uncertain, she''d keep her distance. That''s why Uncle Yu and Chenyan made sure to tell her everything truthfully."

    "But is it alright to tell something so bitter to someone so young?"

    Shui Koshing sighed out, "And what if you heard the same thing from a third person instead?" Shui Xian paused as he heard that. "No matter how painful the truth is, your wife still values the truth. She is an honest person who likes honesty in return."

    After hearing it all, Shui Xian came to a conclusion. His father''s conjecture might be right. Something terrible must have happened that made Grandfather Xiang so reluctant to let Raelle''s parents into her life.

    He stood up to leave and took his coat from the back of the chair as he said, "Don''t worry, I don''t n on asking her about any of this. If she doesn''t want to talk about it, I don''t think there is any need for me to bring it up."

    He turned around to leave but stopped at the door. Turning back, he asked, "You always wanted her to be your daughter-inw, didn''t you?"

    Shui Koshing lifted his eyes to look at his son, "What makes you say that?"

    "She has mom''s pendant," replied Shui Xian. "I always wondered why such an important thing would end up at an auction. Now, I think you had nned it that way. You wanted it to end up with her."

    Shui Koshing smiled at his son, "My son, you''re really being observant these days." He took a pause before adding, "She doesn''t like taking gifts. But she''d spend any amount of money to get what catches her eye."

    Shui Xian exhaled a long breath, "That pendant was auctioned even before my first marriage, that means you really saw her as your daughter-inw for a very long time now." He took a pause before adding, "But why? Why has it always been her?"

    Shui Koshing thought about it before asking, "Son, why don''t you ask yourself that question?" Shui Xian raised his brows in question. "Why are you so attentive towards her? Why do you want to spend time with her? What really made you agree to marry her?"

    "I''m not sure about that yet," Shui Xian replied. He didn''t refute his father''s words. He couldn''t do it. It was true that he was very attentive towards her because he wanted to figure out the depth of her. And it was also true that he seemed to want to spend more and more time with her as well. Because whenever she was around, it seemed like he was looking at life for the very first time.

    "When you find the answer to that, you''d understand why I wanted her to be your partner in life," told Shui Koshing. "She isn''t just any girl. She is a very special one."

    Although Shui Koshing never stopped his son from making his own decision, it was also true that he always wished to have Raelle as his daughter-inw. But seeing his son with his first love, he couldn''t bring himself to tear them apart. He thought his wish would nevere true but fate had its own ideas which took some time to shape up but it shaped up beautifully in the end.

    "Yesterday, Yanjun said that Raelle looked simr to someone he knew," began Shui Xian. "Who was he talking about?"

    "Her father," replied Shui Koshing. "She has indeed inherited all the best features of her father. It''d a surprise to me if Yanjun didn''t find the simrity."

    "Since he is familiar with her dad, that means there is a possibility that her dad is in the military. It won''t be a surprise though since the Xiang family has a long history."

    "Son, aren''t you gettingte today?"

    Shui Xian looked at his father who either dodged his question or agreed with his inference by dodging his question. "I''m leaving. I''ll see you in the evening."

    "I''ll be waiting," replied Shui Koshing. "Not like I have anything better to do."

 Chapter 93 - An Appointment

    "The fifth round of the interviews is gonna begin today," informed Cloe. "Do you want to take a look at the chosen candidates?"

    "No," came the prompt reply from Raelle. "Hiringpany personnel is Administration Department''s job. Why should I go to take a look?"

    "These days, it''s a trend for bosses to interact with their employees," said Cloe with a straight face. She didn''t even feel bad about lying straight to her boss'' face.

    "Troublesome!"

    Cloe''s face twitched at that and she had the urge to roll her eyes at Raelle but held back. She knew if she rolled her eyes before Raelle, she''d have to spend an extra hour rolling in the office.

    Cloe shook her head and looked at the iPad as she opened Raelle''s schedule to check and frowned at something. She looked at Raelle''s face then back at the screen of the iPad. "Chief, you''re gonna have a phone call with your husband during the lunch hour?"

    "Is there a problem with that?"

    Cloe opened her mouth but nothing came out. Did she dare to say that it seemed weird to her that her boss allocated a time for her husband in her busy schedule? No, she didn''t dare say it out loud!

    "Ah, that reminded me," began Raelle. "It''s written I have a meeting with MC at 11 o''clock." She lifted her eyes to look at Cloe as she inquired, "Who is MC?"

    Cloe tutted at her boss, "I''m disappointed in you, Chief."

    "What did you say?"

    Cloe smiled at her and didn''t repeat herself. Instead, she checked the message on her phone and said, "Give me a minute. I''ll bring MC to you."

    Raelle leaned back in her chair and flipped the pen around her fingers as she continued to look at the door where Cloe''s running figure disappeared. She didn''t have to wait for long before the door opened again and Cloe''s head appeared before her eyes. "Chief, I present to you, one and only, MC!"

    "What are you talking about, Cloe?" Raelle heard the ever so familiar voice and stood up as she looked at Mu Chenyan appearing from behind Cloe. "Elle!"

    Raelle looked at Mu Chenyan''s familiar gentle smile before she looked at Cloe, "MC?"

    Cloe grinned at her, "MC... Miss Mu Chenyan."

    "It seems you don''t have enough work at your hand," said Raelle.

    "Why would you say that?" Cloe''s smile stiffened instantly.

    "Why else would you have time to y around like this?" Raelle strode over to Mu Chenyan''s side as she continued, "Should I give you more work?" Along the way, she picked up a file from the desk and shoved it at Cloe saying, "Review these documents."

    Cloe looked at the white file and said, "I just did though."

    "And if I want you to do it again, are you not gonna do it?"

    Cloe embraced the file as if her life depended on it, "Of course, I would do it! I''ll do it for as long as you want me to."

    Seeing their exchange Mu Chenyan frowned slightly, "Elle, don''t bully her."

    "What I''m doing is called bullying?" asked Raelle innocently.

    "Yes," replied Mu Chenyan. She looked at Cloe and said, "Cloe, you can leave."

    Cloe looked at Mu Chenyan like a lifesaver, "Should I bring you something to drink or eat?"

    Before Mu Chenyan could refuse, Raelle chimed in, "You still need to ask that?"

    "I''ll be right back," Cloe closed the door and ran off.

    Raelle held Mu Chenyan''s hand and dragged her over to the sitting area. She sat down with her and asked, "Yanyan, did you make an appointment to meet me?"

    "Of course," replied Mu Chenyan. "Our Elle is such a busy woman. How can I just barge in here?" She took a pause and added, "Besides, I''m most familiar with your habit of not breaking the rules. If you don''t even break the rules you set for yourself, how can I do it?"

    "You cane whenever you want," said Raelle. "I can make an exception."

    Mu Chenyan smiled at her, "I don''t want to be that exception. You keep it open for someone else."

    Obviously, Raelle didn''t understand what she was suggesting here. But she did think about who can she make an exception aside from her Yanyan?

    "Why are you here though?" inquired Raelle.

    "Why? I can''te to see you?" retorted Mu Chenyan.

    Raelle shook her head, "No, I mean you usually don''te to visit me at the office. In fact, this is your first timeing to see me, at work."

    Mu Chenyan hummed in reply. It was indeed her first timeing to see Raelle at work. Even when they were living in Country G, since the time Raelle took control over the management of the business, she never came to the office.

    "It''s because Elder Xiang kicked me out of the house," said Mu Chenyan with her lips curved downward. She looked aggrieved.

    "Opa did what?" asked Raelle.

    "He kicked me out of the house," repeated Mu Chenyan.

    Raelle stared at her unblinkingly before saying, "That''s not possible. He can''t kick you out of your own house."

    "But he did that," said Mu Chenyan firmly. "He said I''m useless at home so I should go out and do something useful. Apparently, I have no value at home now." She firmly held Raelle''s hand and went on, "Why don''t you talk to him? I don''t feel good leaving him alone at home. Tell him to just let me take care of him, eh?"

    "Opa doesn''t need a babysitter," replied Raelle. "If he is asking you to go out of the house, I believe he is doing it for your own good. You spend way too much time at home."

    Mu Chenyan stared at Raelle''s face and sighed out. She knew this girl won''t fall for it. But how was she supposed to tell this girl that she felt the most useless in this society. She had cut off from society for far too long now. It felt weird trying to blend back in. At least, she felt needed at home.

 Chapter 94 - No Pressure

    "You know why I can''t leave Elder Xiang alone," said Mu Chenyan after taking a while to sort out her thoughts. "I''m not saying he does need a babysitter, but he does need a caretaker."

    "Even if he does, that can''t be you now," replied Raelle without missing a beat. "You''re the one who said that Opa only has you and me now. Also, our happiness is all that matters to him now." The polite smile from her face vanished in a blink of an eye as she added, "So, how many excuses are you gonna make just to avoid going out in the society? Do people intimidate you that much?"

    Mu Chenyan sighed out, "Maybe I am intimidated by people now."

    "If you allowing someone to intimidate you, that means you''re letting that person control you. And a person controlled by another is often called a puppet. Because their own self gets buried under that intimidation." She stared into Mu Chenyan''s eyes as she went on, "Where is the woman who always taught me to never let anyone intimidate me?"

    "Ah, this is the moment I should say it''s easier said than done," replied Mu Chenyan. "My Elle is a born fighter. Obviously, no one can intimidate you. But I''m just a normal person. It does scare me to know that while people have reached a zenith in their lives in the past 2 decades, I''m still standing right where I was." She took a deep breath, "While people have walked on the road to bing leaders of their lives, I''m still just a failure."

    Raelle ced her finger under Mu Chenyan''s chin and turned her face towards herself again as she said, "Look at me... Who I am?"

    "You''re my Elle," replied Mu Chenyan as her eyes turned gentle instantly.

    "But what do people know about me?"

    "Hmmm... Raelle Xiang. Youngest Chairwoman of Xiang Conglomerate. Also the youngest CEO of the Wanda Enterprises. Has been awarded the Top Businesswoman award in Country G for 5 years straight." She breathed out, "There is so much more, but I am tired now. It''ll take me a whole day to brag about my Elle and even that might not be enough."

    One could clearly see the look of pride on Mu Chenyan''s face. Raelle was the baby about whom the doctors said she might never be able to blend in the society. Because she''s different. But instead of blending in, today her Elle was the woman people looked up to. She never tried to get epted by this society. She had been challenging it all her life.

    "Your peers might have be the leaders in their lives, but you have raised me. You''ve raised Raelle Xiang. You might have not be a leader, but you''ve raised one. You should be proud of yourself."

    Mu Chenyanughed at Raelle as she ced her hands against her cheeks and said, "How can I forget that? You are my pride. You''ve always been my pride."

    "Then for me, start living your life for yourself. Opa and I are not your responsibilities." She took a pause seeing the hesitation on Mu Chenyan''s face and added, "When I was young, I used to tell you how everyone around me said I''m not normal so I don''t fit in with them. You''re the one who taught me that there is no such thing as ''normal''. It''s the way of looking at things. You said just because I don''t fit in the definition of the ''normal'' set by society, it doesn''t make me an anomaly. It makes me unique and special. Because we can find those normals everywhere, finding someone special is rare."

    Mu Chenyan suddenly shuddered saying, "The way you remember everything, word for word gives me goosebumps. I think I said that when you''re six. Is it alright to remember it even now?"

    "You can''t recall what happened when you''re six?" questioned Raelle.

    "No, I can''t!" retorted Mu Chenyan.

    "Eat more almonds," said Raelle with a straight face. "You said it''s good for the memory."

    Mu Chenyan gaped at her in disbelief, "Did you just insult my memory?"

    "Did I?"

    Mu Chenyan looked at her face and sighed out, "Nevermind!" She let her body sink into the couch as she leaned back and held the cushion in front of her saying, "I like this."

    "What?"

    "Having you to talk to," replied Mu Chenyan. "I feel like I can tell you everything and magically, everything will be alright."

    "There is no such thing as magic in this world," said Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan chuckled softly and said, "There is."

    "To believe in the power of magic is an insult to science." She stood up to go back to her desk as she added, "However, science can be described as magic. Instead of using enchanted tools to aid the performance of tricks, we have the technology. And that technology does allow us to turn into magicians."

    Mu Chenyan shook her head at Raelle and said, "My dearest Elle, there are things science can''t prove. The universe is mysterious in its own way."

    "Yanyan, do you believe in the supernatural power of magic?"

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head, "Yes, I do."

    "Why?"

    "Because you need to believe it, to see it," replied Mu Chenyan. "It''s all about the power of faith."

    "What do you mean?"

    "Humans'' power of faith is quite interesting," she said. "It has the power to turn a statue of stone into a god. So, don''t ever doubt it."

    "That doesn''t make magic real," retorted Raelle.

    "The magic is all around us... You don''t have to see it to believe it. You can just feel it."

    Raelle looked in her direction and said, "It is again a poetry reference that I won''t be able to understand?"

    "It''s okay. Take your time. You''ll eventually understand it."

    "What if I don''t want to understand it?"

    Mu Chenyan smiled at her, "That''s okay as well. We are only humans, there is only so much we can understand in life. There is no need to feel pressured."

 Chapter 95 - Not Like You

    *Knock!*

    With a knock, Cloe opened the door of the office and stepped inside. In her tow followed a group of secretaries that ced different delicacies before Mu Chenyan. There was tea, macarons, cake, and if someone felt like not eating sweet, there was a wide variety of finger foods with tastes ranging from mild to spicy.

    "Are you opening a snack bar?" asked Raelle looking at the table full of food.

    "It''s Miss Mu''s first visit to the office, we should be treating her like an honored guest," said Cloe as she stood aside with her hands sped before her.

    Mu Chenyanughed awkwardly, "It''s still way over the top, Cloe."

    Cloe scratched her ear and said, "Is it? I got too excited. I apologize."

    Mu Chenyan waved her off saying, "It''s alright. It''s not like we can waste it now, sit down and give mepany." Cloe hesitated as she looked in Raelle''s direction. Mu Chenyan held her hand and pulled her down saying, "Don''t look at my Elle so much, you will fall in love with her."

    Cloe ced her hand over her mouth as sheughed and said, "If that''s the case, I should look at her more often."

    "No, you can''t," refused Mu Chenyan. "She''s already taken now."

    Cloe saw the happiness bursting out of Mu Chenyan''s aura as she said thest sentence and smiled at her. She had to say this had to be the unconditional love people talked about. She actually thought it didn''t exist. But since the time she came across Mu Chenyan and Raelle, she got to believe in it.

    Mu Chenyan took the chopsticks to pick up a chicken wanton before dipping it into the sauce and taking a bite. After she swallowed it, she gave Cloe a thumbs up, "This is so good! It tastes like it''s homemade."

    Cloe smiled proudly, "I have done thorough research on food around the office building. I know all about where to find the best things to eat."

    "Really?" Mu Chenyan was surprised.

    "Of course, whenever one travels, one has to get familiar with food there. Food tells you a lot about the ce and the people."

    "Stop making it sound so good," said Raelle. "You searched for the best ce to eat because you can''t cook. If you''re gonna eat outside daily, you need to know what to eat or where to eat it."

    Cloe cursed Raelle mentally for exposing her like that. What was wrong with that? One needed food to live, no?

    Mu Chenyan chuckled at that and said, "Isn''t there those food apps now that allow you to order food at home? Isn''t that more convenient?"

    "But what''s the fun in eating alone at home?" said Cloe. "I''d rather sit in a restaurant and listen to people''s daily hustle and bustle life."

    "You like noisy ces?" questioned Mu Chenyan.

    Cloe leaned closer to her to whisper, "Spending time with a boss who rarely speaks more than two sentences, I havee to love noisy people." Clearing her throat, she looked at Raelle and smiled, "Chief, would you like to eat some?"

    "It''s not lunch hour yet," replied Raelle as she continued to read the document in her hand.

    "Even her hunger works on the dot," muttered Cloe to herself.

    Mu Chenyan ate in silence as she continued to think about what Raelle said to her earlier. As she sipped on tea, she finally came to a conclusion. "Okay! I''ve decided to finally be a part of the society again."

    "So, what are you nning to do?" asked Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan''s shoulders ckened, "That I don''t know yet."

    "Miss Mu, didn''t you study medicine?" asked Cloe.

    Mu Chenyan''s body stiffened for a moment before she said, "I left in the second year of med school."

    "Oh..." was all Cloe could say. "But why did you leave?"

    She shrugged her shoulders, "I just realized it wasn''t meant for me."

    "Wasn''t it toote to realize that?" questioned Cloe.

    "I was only 20 at that time, how is thatte?" Mu Chenyan touched her face as she went on, "How old do you think I am?"

    Cloe waved her hands, "No, no! That''s not what I meant. Not at all!"

    Mu Chenyan sighed out, "Although I''m not that old, I''m still old. There are a lot fewer options for me out there. What should I do?"

    "We have a new development project for an ind, want to join?" asked Raelle seeing the struggle on Mu Chenyan''s face. She really looked like she had no clue what to do.

    "My Elle, I love you but I don''t want a boss like you." Cloe almost spurted out everything in her mouth but held back with difficulty. Mu Chenyan shook her head at her as she added, "Besides, this business world isn''t for me. I''d like to keep my distance." She took a pause and went on, "I don''t have a particr skill as well."

    "Miss Mu, I think to keep yourself busy you don''t need a job. You can find a hobby for yourself as well. It''s not you arecking money."

    "I can''t think anymore," said Mu Chenyan as she stood up. "I''m gonna spend a day with my friend. Maybe she''ll help me find something to do."

    "Friend?" echoed Raelle. "You''re going to see Hyson''s mother?"

    "Who else?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "Say thanks to her for the gifts," said Raelle. "Also, don''t go empty-handed."

    "She''ll kick me out if I took something with me."

    "Who said you have to take something fancy? You can just take a box of apples for her," suggested Raelle.

    "That''s a good idea," agreed Mu Chenyan and turned to leave.

    Cloe held her hand and smiled strangely, "MC, do you need help carrying that box of apples? It''d be difficult for you to do it on your own."

    "It''s not difficult at all," replied Mu Chenyan. "I can do it myself."

    "No, how can I let you do it?"

    Raelle lifted her eyes at stared at Cloe, "Are you that eager to get fired? Disturb Hyson''s mother and he won''t ever look at you again."

    Cloe instantly let Mu Chenyan''s hand go as she said, "Have a safe journey, Miss Mu. I won''t be seeing you out."

    Mu Chenyan was amused by that, "Do you like our Yue Fai?"

    Cloe nodded her head, "I have be a fan of his. Instead of his face, I like his voice more. Was just curious to know what kind of a mother he has."

    "Don''t be so curious," said Mu Chenyan. "Our Yue Fai is indeed very protective when ites to his mother." With that, she left the office with a clear destination in her mind.

 Chapter 96 - Eat Lunch

    From the driving seat of the car, Shui Xian''s assistant continued to peek at his boss who was sitting in the back seat. The number of times he looked at his boss had lost count by now.

    It had to be said that Ma Jin was a little shocked from the moment he saw Shui Xian today. It was because it was rare for Shui Xian to wear anything else other than his impable handmade suits. Today, however, Shui Xian was wearing a ck turtleneck with grey pants along with a graphite grey coat.

    This was out of the ordinary along with that mark on Shui Xian''s bottom lip. It was very faint but from how much attentively Ma Jin had been staring at him, it''d be a wonder if he didn''t notice it.

    But the first thing in his mind wasn''t that someone bit Shui Xian''s lip during a kiss perhaps. In fact, he was wondering if his boss got into a fight with someone.

    *Screech!*

    Shui Xian''s body jerked and he red at Ma Jin through the rearview mirror. Ma Jin gulped as he stabled the car and said, "Master Xian, someone cut the line. It''s really not my fault."

    "Focus on the road!" said Shui Xian. "Don''t you have someone waiting for you at home? Even if you don''t, I have! So, pay attention!"

    Ma Jin was left dumbfounded being scolded like that. He thought to himself, ''I have a girlfriend waiting for him at home, who do you have?''

    His phone rang and attended the call before informing Shui Xian, "Master, it''s Linda. She''s saying your sister is at the office. She says she was hoping to have lunch with you."

    "Tell her I have meetings outside of the office today. So, if she wishes to see me, she can juste to my house," replied Shui Xian in his monotonous manner.

    Ma Jin informed his words to the secretary on call before hanging up. Shui Xian didn''t lie just to avoid meeting his sister, he indeed had meetings all day. Even if he was at the office, he wouldn''t be able to meet her, not like he wanted to.

    *Ring!*

    Shui Xian looked at his own phone and seeing the called id, his eyes instantly went up to see the time. As expected, his wife was really following her schedule well. Her call was right on time. He picked up the call, "Howe you''re right on time?"

    "I''m always on time," came Raelle precise reply.

    Ma Jin parked the call and said, "Master, we are here!"

    Raelle also heard Ma Jin''s voice and asked, "Are you out of the office?"

    Shui Xian hummed in reply before he stared at Ma Jin and gestured him to get out of the car. Ma Jin instantly alighted from the car and stood aside respectfully.

    "I have a meeting outside," replied Shui Xian.

    "Oh..." responded Raelle in understanding.

    Just as he was about to speak, he heard another voice from Raelle''s side. "Chief, where should I put your lunch?"

    "On your head," he heard Raelle''s voice and pressed his lips together.

    Cloeughed awkwardly, "That was a nice joke."

    "I wasn''t joking though," retorted Raelle making Cloe stiffen. Taking Raelle''s words seriously, Cloe lifted the bowl of noodles as if she was really gonna put it on her head and Raelle threw a paper ball at her head saying, "Where do I eat my lunch?"

    "Anywhere but your desk," replied Cloe.

    "So?"

    Cloe cleared her throat and took the bowl of noodles away from the desk.

    Shui Xian finally spoke up, "Are you gonna have your lunch now?"

    "Yes," replied Raelle as she stood up and went over to where Cloe ced her lunch. "Did you eat?"

    "Not yet," answered Shui Xian.

    "You should," said Raelle. "It''s the right time for lunch."

    "I have a meeting," Shui Xian repeated himself.

    "That means you''re nning on skipping your lunch?" questioned Raelle. "That won''t do. Skipping meals is not good for health."

    "Wife, are you worried about me?" asked Shui Xian in amusement as a smile yed on his lips.

    "No Hubby, I''m currently trying to emphasize how important it is to eat on time." And that''s how Raelle began her detailed lecture on how important food was and how important it was for a human body to eat on time as well.

    Shui Xian leaned his head against the windowpane and continued to listen to her attentively with an asional humming in between to indicate that he was listening. He looked at the time on his watch and realized that she''d been talking for ten minutes and he didn''t find it boring.

    Only after she stopped talking did he say, "Your lunch is getting cold. Eat well. I''ll see you in the evening."

    "And your lunch?" she asked again.

    Shui Xian chuckled, "Aiyo, wifey, I''m gonna go find myself something to eat as well."

    "Okay then, bye!" She said. "Take a picture of what you eat."

    "You need proof?" he asked.

    "Yes, I do!" Only then did she hang up the call and Shui Xian was left staring at his phone screen.

    It must be because no one ever nagged him about anything, that''s why he found her nagging cute. Even though she didn''t even realize she was nagging.

    Outside the car, Ma Jin was wondering what was taking his boss so long? It had been 20 minutes and he was still on a phone call? Just who was it? As Shui Xian stepped out of the car, he looked heavenward and Ma Jin''s eyes widened. First, he was certain he saw a smile on his boss''s face. Second, why was there another mark on his boss''s neck?

    "Master, do you need an ointment?" Shui Xian looked at him with furrowed brows. "For the bug bite," added Ma Jin as he touched the side of his neck.

    Shui Xian also ced his hand against the side of his neck and said, "There is no need. We still have ten minutes before the meeting, find me something to eat."

    "Huh?" It took him a moment to process his words, "You want to have lunch today?"

    "Why? I can''t?"

    "Please wait inside, I''ll arrange it immediately," said Ma Jin before rushing away in horror.

 Chapter 97 - Ugly Smile

    After Ma Jin left to look for something to eat for him, Shui Xian ced his hand on the side of his neck. The hickey was covered by the turtleneck. And the only reason he wanted to hide it was because he didn''t want to create a scene. It''d be the gossip of the year at his office if someone saw it.

    But just now Ma Jin''s reaction really surprised him a little. He actually thought it was a bug bite. Just what kind of image did he had in his employees'' eyes? Did he seem like a monk? Is that why they''d just assume that it was a bug bite rather than a love bite?

    As he went inside the building and found a table to sit at, he looked at his phone screen where Raelle''s contact details were disyed. The picture he used for her called id was the one they took on the day they got married. His lips curved up slightly as he continued to stare at her photo and muttered to himself, "My bug has a very ugly smile."

    He truly found her smile ugly. Even though she looked beautiful when she smiled, he couldn''t see that smile in her eyes and that made his heart feel unsettled every time. That''s why he really didn''t like her smile. It was just an artificial smile but it actually looked pretty but he wondered how beautiful it''d be if she smiled genuinely?

    Ma Jin came running back with a packed lunch box. He ced it before Shui Xian on the table and said, "Master Xian, this is the only thing I could find around here. I''ll take you to a restaurant after the meeting."

    "There is no need," said Shui Xian as he took off the stic lid of the lunch box. He took the disposable chopsticks and looked at the very simple lunch before him.

    Before taking a bite, he carefully took a picture of it and looked at it deciding whether to send it to Raelle just as she had asked for it or not. Ma Jin was staring at him intently and finally dared to ask, "Master Xian, what are you doing?"

    "Collecting evidence," replied Shui Xian before looking up at him. He passed the phone and said, "Take a picture."

    "Huh?" Ma Jin was taken aback again.

    "Take a picture," repeated Shui Xian, and Ma Jin took the phone to click the photo. Shui Xian took his phone back and looked satisfied with this photo. He instantly sent it to Raelle before he focused on eating his meal.

    Meanwhile, when Raelle got the picture, she continued to stare at it. Cloe''s interest was piqued and she craned her neck to see. Raelle had zoomed on the meal box in Shui Xian''s hand so she could only see a pair of hands on the screen.

    "Is that your husband?" asked Cloe curiously. "He has such pretty hands." She looked at her own hands and hid them saying, "That''s gonna give me a newplex now."

    Raelle turned her head to give her a look.

    Cloe instantly straightened up, "Hehe... I almost forgot that you don''t like people eyeing your things. But trust me, I wasn''t eyeing him. I just found his hands very pretty. Now, I''m even more curious to know what he looks like."

    Raelle looked back at the screen and pressed the lock screen button before cing her phone on the table, face down. Since she was silent, Cloe thought she won''t say anything. But unexpectedly, Raelle actuallymented after a long pause, "He does have beautiful hands."

    Cloe''s lips curved up as she instantly came to a conclusion. Her boss''s husband was definitely handsome enough to catch her attention. It''s not every day you''d hear her givingpliments to someone.

    On the other side, when Shui Xian was done eating, he wiped his face and only then Ma Jin informed him, "Master Xian, I just received the news. Ruan Meilin''s negotiation with the other party has gone smoothly. After signing the contract tomorrow, they''d be holding a celebration banquet. So, she''ll be able toe back over the weekend."

    Shui Xian only hummed in reply before he looked at the time. He had finished eating as soon as possible because of the meeting time but the other party was still not there. Just as he was about to ask Ma Jin about that, he saw a familiar figure and paused.

    He stood up to shake hands with the man and wanted to ignore the one he brought along but held himself back. "Mr. Ji, have a seat."

    Mr. Ji smiled at him politely before introducing the one beside him, "This is mywyer, Mr. Cui. I hope you don''t mind me bringing him along."

    "Since Mr. Cui is already here," began Shui Xian with a cold look. "Then let him be."

    The warm sunlight shone on the side of his face from the windows beside him but no warmth could be seen on Shui Xian''s face from beginning to end. In fact, his whole aura chilled.

    From beginning to end, the one addressed as Mr. Cui didn''t say anything. He just continued to observe Shui Xian with a smile on his face. Only when Mr. Ji stepped aside to take a call did he lean ahead and said, "Long time no see, Xianxian."

    Shui Xian didn''t even look at him as he replied, "Since your trademark smirk is still intact, I believe it hasn''t been that long."

    "How cruel!" remarked Cui Xukun. "That is no way to greet an old friend."

    "I guess I forgot my manners," retorted Shui Xian in the same monotonous voice.

    Cui Xukun''s smirk dampened a little as he said, "But I think it''s been far too long now. The Xianxian I remember... I can''t find him in you anymore." He took a pause before adding, "Is it because of what I did?"

    "How I act is my matter!" said Shui Xian. "It has nothing to do with you."

 Chapter 98 - Happily Married

    Cui Xukun observed Shui Xian''s expressions but couldn''t find anything from his straight face. He almost couldn''t believe that he was looking at the same person he knew from back when they were in school. Because the Shui Xian in his memory always had a big smile on his face. He used to be yful and full of life. But now...

    "It''s really difficult to look at this version of yours," said Cui Xukun.

    "I also don''t wish to look at a sore loser," retorted Shui Xian making Cui Xukun''s smirk vanish.

    He pointed at Shui Xian saying, "Fine! Call me the sore loser! I am a sore loser! What about you? Prince Xian definitely won, then why do you look like you lost the whole world?"

    "Shouldn''t you be gloating over that?" asked Shui Xian. "Finally you got to see my defeated look."

    Cui Xukun scoffed, "I''m so not happy to see that. I wanted to be the one to defeat you. I don''t want you to lose from someone else."

    "You won''t be able to defeat me in this life," said Shui Xian with certainty. "Because I don''t run when things get difficult! Unlike someone, I used to know..." His eyes looked at Cui Xukun and it was clear he was implying something and thetter could even understand what he was implying.

    Cui Xukunughed at Shui Xian saying, "Aren''t you running now? Just because you got divorced, you distanced yourself from everyone who was associated with both of you. Isn''t that called running?"

    Shui Xian gave him a look, "I distanced myself because I didn''t wish to make anything difficult for our mutual friends. I wouldn''t want them to feel awkward. That''s why I chose to take a step back. It definitely doesn''t mean that I''m running away from something or someone!"

    Cui Xukun looked at him in silence before he said, "Have I been abroad for way too long? When I came back three months ago and learned about everything from my sister, I was surprised, to say the least." Shui Xian turned his head and gazed out the window as if he didn''t want to listen to Cui Xukun but that didn''t discourage Cui Xukun at all. "When you''re getting the divorce, you should have contacted me. I could have helped you."

    "How? Did you be a divorcewyer?" Shui Xian acted surprised making Cui Xukun''s face twitch. "Or maybe, I should have told you about the divorce so that you could take that chance to finally hit on my ex-wife."

    "Xian, my morals might be corrupted but I''m still the person who values friendship a lot. I gave you a promise as a man and as your best friend. Until this day, I stick with my words."

    Shui Xian''s eyes shed with a nostalgic look as he could recall the promise between them...

    ~~~

    "It''s already clear that we like the same girl," Cui Xukun had told him as they stood on the basketball court of the high school. "But the three of us are friends."

    "Are you reminding me of that so that you could convince me to give up on her for the sake of our friendship?" retorted Shui Xian. "Dream on! That''s not happening! I''m not giving up on her!"

    "What a surprise!" said Cui Xukun. "So am I!"

    They both red at each other intensely.

    "Let''s make a deal," suggested Cui Xukun. "Both of us get to court her. And let''s leave the final decision to her. It doesn''t matter whether we like her or not, what matters is who she likes."

    "What''s the catch?" asked Shui Xian suspiciously.

    Cui Xukun threw the basketball at his face but he caught it easily. "There is no catch!" He took a pause to step aside to get a bottle of water as he said, "However, once she chooses one of us, the other won''t let thise between our friendship."

    He offered the bottle of water to Shui Xian who took it and nodded, "I wouldn''t want to ruin our friendship over this either."

    "Exactly!"

    They did a fist bump before Shui Xian threw the bottle of water at Cui Xukun''s head saying, "Don''t let your guard down around your love rival!"

    ~~~

    "If I remember correctly, you did let her decision influence our friendship," said Shui Xian coldly.

    "I did not!" retorted Cui Xukun. "I was always supposed to go to study abroad. That doesn''t mean I gave up on our friendship. Yes, I did keep my distance but that was because I didn''t want toe between you two. If I knew you both would get divorced so easily, I wouldn''t have kept my distance."

    Shui Xian looked at his watch and turned to Ma Jin, "Check what''s taking Mr. Ji so long. I don''t have a whole day for him."

    "Yes, Master Xian!"

    As Ma Jin left their side, Cui Xukun asked, "Are you doing okay?" Shui Xian gave him a nce. "You loved her very much. So, I can imagine what you must be feeling right now."

    "You''re mistaken about something here," said Shui Xian. "I am actually very happy in my life. In fact, I''ve happily married again."

    Cui Xukun paused before burst outughing, "That was a nice joke."

    Shui Xian ced his hands on the table as he leaned ahead and said, "If it''s that funny, howe you''re the only oneughing right now?"

    Cui Xukun couldn''t tell whether Shui Xian was serious or ying a joke on him. Had they been apart for too long that he couldn''t be even read his old friend''s face any longer?

    "Are you ying a trick on me?" he asked uncertainly.

    "Am I?" retorted Shui Xian feigning ignorance.

    "You''ve gotten good at hiding your feelings," said Cui Xukun.

    "Maybe because I''ve worn my feelings on my sleeves for far too long," replied Shui Xian. He stood up and buttoned up his coat saying, "Tell Mr. Ji, we are not having this deal anymore. It was so not nice seeing you again."

    Cui Xukun looked at Shui Xian''s retreating back and muttered to himself, "Bebe, what did you do to him?"

 Chapter 99 - Fragile Goods

    "Madam, there seems to be someone blocking the road ahead."

    Mu Chenyan looked up and thought about it for a minute before saying, "Then I''ll get off here."

    "But, Madam..."

    Mu Chenyan stopped the driver from continuing as she went on, "It''s just right around the corner now. It isn''t even far. I can manage."

    She alighted from the car and took the box of apples that she had bought before closing the door. Seeing that the road was so congested now, she decided to take the small alley. But apparently, someone also had the same idea. As she had just reached the middle of the alley, a bike zoomed past her. It would have hit her if she didn''t sidestep at the right time but while doing so, her foot twisted and she fell down.

    Along with her, the box of apples in her hands also fell down and the fresh apples that she just got from the farm, scattered. The person on the bike stopped at the end of the alley and turned his head to look towards her.

    Lifting up the helmet''s visor, he called out, "Are you alright?"

    Mu Chenyan''s eyes were stuck on the apples that she couldn''t take with herself anymore. Her hands clenched the hem of her dress as she continued to remind herself, ''You can''t yell. No, can''t yell! You''ve changed. You''re a whole new person now. You don''t get mad and you don''t get irrational. You have to set an example of being gentle for our Elle.''

    After repeating it in her head, she turned her head towards the biker and said, "I''m fine."

    "I''m sorry!" he raised his hand to apologize.

    Mu Chenyan''s whole face contorted with rage but she took a deep breath to calm herself down. She knew if she got upset right now, she''d definitely punch this rash driver. But what was the point of arguing with a young man? She should act as an elder!

    She got up from the ground and dusted off her clothes as she replied, "It''s alright. It''s not your fault that you''re disabled."

    "Excuse me! Did you just indirectly called me blind?"

    Mu Chenyan had already turned around to leave. Only after getting out of the alley did she screamed out in pain and took off her heels to look at her foot. Earlier when she fell, she definitely twisted it. She looked towards the alley with a re as she held her heel in her hand and shouted, "Bloody Bastard! It''s an alley, not a race track! My old bones are not even gonna get repaired if anything went wrong." She huffed in anger, "You pray I never see you again or else! I''m gonna chew all your bones and turn them into a powder!"

    Only after letting out some of her steam did she manage to cool down and went towards Hyson''s house. She rang the doorbell and waited patiently. It didn''t take long for the door to open and Hyson''s mother appeared at the door.

    Seeing Mu Chenyan, she looked pleasantly surprised. She did the hand sign to ask, ''Howe you''re here? And why didn''t you tell me beforeing?''

    "Why? I can''te without informing?" retorted Mu Chenyan, giving away her bad mood which was all thanks to that stupid biker.

    Mother Yue waved her hand indicating that that''s not what she meant. She hurriedly took Mu Chenyan''s hand and dragged her inside.

    "Sss..."

    Mother Yue paused when she heard Mu Chenyan hissing in pain. She looked back at her. But this time, she looked carefully and found that Mu Chenyan''s hands were scraped. And her foot seemed to be swelling up.

    ''What happened?'' she hurriedly inquired.

    Mu Chenyan limped her way towards the living room and fell down on the sofa saying, "Nothing big. A stupid biker forgot his eyes at home!"

    Mother Yue rushed to get the first aid kit. She brought it back and sat down to clean up the small wounds on Mu Chenyan''s hands. Seeing her worried look, Mu Chenyan smiled, "Yue, why do you look so worried? It''s nothing big. When I was young, I was a wild girl. You should have seen me at my peak. These small scratches are nothing to me. After all, I grew up in a military family. I''m a tough one!"

    Mother Yue gave her a look before she said, ''Are you young anymore?''

    Mu Chenyan coughed slightly, "One needs to be young at heart!"

    Mother Yue rolled her eyes at her and didn''t even bother arguing with her. She cleaned the wound before putting a band-aid on it. Then she put a cushion on herp before she held her leg and put it on the cushion. She intently looked at the foot that even she could tell must have twisted badly.

    However, Mu Chenyan had other ideas. She moved her foot for her to see as she said, "See? It isn''t as bad as it looks!" Mother Yue threw another cushion at her face. "I''m not lying though. Although it turned slightly, it isn''t that bad. Just bring me an ice pack."

    Mother Yue carefully put her foot down and went to get the ice pack. As she came back, she found Mu Chenyan holding an apple. She extended it towards her saying, "Yue, this is the only one I could save." Seeing how Mother Yue eyed it, she added, "Don''t look down on the single apple. Although it''s only one, I have protected it with my life! It''s very fresh. I especially went to the nearest farm to get it. I promise it''s very sweet and crunchy. You''ll love it."

    Mother Yue ced the ice pack on her foot with force making Mu Chenyan scream out in pain.

    "Can you be a little gentle here?"

    Mother Yue held her face and turned it from one side to another as if looking for something.

    "What are you doing?"

    ''I''m trying to find the caution tag that reads, fragile goods, handle with care.''

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips and refused to say anything.

 Chapter 100 - Gentlewomen

    "Fragile goods?" Mu Chenyan finally spoke up. "Handle with care?" She scoffed, "I''m not fragile! I just asked you to be gentle." She looked pitiful as she said, "You''re gentle around your son. Can''t you spare me some of that motherly gentleness?"

    Mother Yue pursed her lips as she replied, ''I am no gentle woman. Don''t expect gentleness from me.''

    "You might not be a gentle woman but you''re a gentlewoman,[1]" said Mu Chenyan.

    Mother Yue looked at her for a moment. ''You don''t have to remind me who I am.'' She fixed the ice pack on Mu Chenyan''s foot before asking, ''Do you want something to eat?''

    "I want some cream bread," replied Mu Chenyan but seeing Mother Yue''s face, she grinned. "You don''t have it? Then forget it." She brought the apple to her mouth to take a bite but her hand was held and Mother Yue snatched the apple from her. Mu Chenyan''s mouth was left open.

    ''Didn''t you protect it with your life for me?''

    "But you looked down on my single apple," retorted Mu Chenyan. "You shouldn''t be looking down on single things. You and I are also singles!"

    Mother Yue put that apple in her mouth. ''You talk too much!''

    Mu Chenyan made a face at her and said, "Yue, you need to wash it first." Mother Yue gave her a look and Mu Chenyan took a bite of the apple happily as she went on, "There is no need to wash it. It''s only a few germs."

    ''The burning rage in the pit of your stomach will burn all those germs. Eat it without any worry!''

    Mu Chenyan chewed on the crunchy and sweet apple as she said, "Yue, you''re really not nice. It''s really hard to believe that you''re a sweet girl once."

    ''It''s hard to believe that you''re a carefree soul as well.''

    The friendship between Mu Chenyan and Mother Yue came to be because of Raelle and Hyson. And these two mother figures were as entric as the young ones they raised. Also, their personalities also didn''t match with each other but their somewhat simr experiences brought them close. And they found a much needed friend in each other.

    One of the simrities was that they both changed after they got the responsibility of raising a child. Although Mu Chenyan wasn''t Xiang family''s daughter, she was always treated like one. She had never been forced to do anything and because there was always someone to protect her, she used to cause quite a lot of troubles because of her short-temper.

    And as for Mother Yue, her temperament waspletely different from Mu Chenyan. She was sweet, bubbly and full of life. But she was also a very weak person who would never fight back. And her weakness also came about because she had grown up in a sheltered atmosphere where she never had to face any grievance at all.

    While Mu Chenyan was rebellious, Mother Yue wasisant. But because of Raelle, Mu Chenyan learned to control her impulsiveness and because of Hyson, Mother Yue learned to be strong to protect her son.

    "Let me stay here tonight," said Mu Chenyan as she looked towards the open kitchen where Mother Yue was cooking something.

    She stopped for a moment to ask, ''Why?''

    "Because if I went home in this condition, Elder Xiang is gonna ground me!"

    Mother Yue chuckled at that. ''Isn''t that good? You love staying at home.''

    "I can stay at home on my own ord but if someone ask me to stay at home, I can''t do it!"

    ''Your defiancees out to y?''

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head and sighed, "Although it''s been years, I really can''t get over my defiant nature. Because it''s a part of me that I only managed to hide from the world. I couldn''t kill that part of me." She took a moment and added, "Also, if my Elle saw me injured, it won''t be good."

    ''She isn''t impulsive like you.''

    Mu Chenyan smiled at that, "I wish she was impulsive once in a while." She had a remiscient look on her face as she continued, "When I was young, I used to envy the adults. Because I thought they knew everything about life. But when I turned an adult myself, I realized no one knew anything around me, including me. Because each one of us were running in life to find our own answers." Mother Yue squinted her eyes at her. "But then God gifted me with His most beautiful creation and I named her Raelle. And she became the answer I''ve been looking for. However, now my Elle is married and I feel lost again."

    Mother Yue shook her head at Mu Chenyan. ''She only got married. What are you crying about?''

    Mu Chenyan pouted at her, "You don''t understand, Yue. Knowing that now my Elle has her own home and she doesn''t need me, makes me feel so useless. The house without her seems so empty."

    Mother Yue brought a spat to hit Mu Chenyan''s head as she said, ''You''re being over dramatic now. She hasn''t even gonna that far from you. Call her once, and she''ll be right with you.''

    "You''re really not trying to understand my feelings now,"ined Mu Chenyan. "Forget it. You tell me where is Yue Fai?"

    ''At the dorms.''

    "He isn''ting back home?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Mother Yue shook her head, ''He said he is gonna get busy in theing days. So he won''t be able toe see me often,''

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head as a smirk appeared on her face. Mother Yue could already tell she was up to something. That smirk was way too obvious.

    "Let''s get drunk tonight!"

    Mother Yue facepalmed herself. She knew nothing good wille out of her mouth. However, that didn''t mean she''d refuse either. She was the only one before whom, she could let loose.

    ''Let''s do it!''

    Mu Chenyan instantly grinned seeing the other woman agreeing with her.

    [1] When she said gentle and woman separately, she means ''a kind or tender woman.'' But when she said gentlewoman, that means a woman of noble birth.

 Chapter 101 - Make Time

    Talking to an old friend makes you realize how much your life has changed since thest time you saw them. That''s what Shui Xian felt today. After meeting Cui Xukun, he really got to see how far he hade because that old friend reminded him of all those times that they spend together.

    He had so many memories since childhood with those people he once called his best friends. With Cui Xukun and with... Her.

    They had the most beautiful memories together and now the people who gave him those memories had be just a memory. The saddest part was that they became a part of the memory that he didn''t want to recall.

    Sitting face to face with Cui Xukun today, he caught glimpses of those tangled memories and it left a sour taste in his mouth. Once they were best friends and now they might even be worse than strangers. And because of that, the rest of the day he spent in a bad mood. Even his assistant had to be extra cautious around him.

    As he walked through the door of the house, he took off his coat and passed it to the maid in a routine manner. He ascended the stairs to go to his room but stopped when he saw Raelle sitting in the lounge on their floor.

    She had her feet perched on the coffee table before her. There was a cushion on her legs and on top was herptop. She was wearing shorts with an oversized knitted sweater and had tied her hair in a high ponytail. There was no makeup on her face which made her face look youthful.

    While her eyes moved from the documents in her hands to the screen of theptop, she was so engrossed in her work that she didn''t even realize someone had been staring at her for a while now. And of course, Shui Xian didn''t make any sound to announce his arrival as well.

    But it wasn''t intentional though. Seeing her, he found himself lost in his own thoughts. That suffocating feeling that all those old memories evoked within his heart slowly evanesced as he gazed at his wife. They say life doesn''t always give you the people you want. He finally understood the meaning of it. She was definitely not someone he wanted but she was bing someone he needed; To help him grow out of everything that had been tormenting him.

    He stepped closer to her and sat down right beside her on the couch. Only then did Raelle lifted her eyes and noticed his presence. "Oh, you''re back?"

    "I guess I''mte again," replied Shui Xian although he was right on time today. But she was already here, he felt like he was still a stepte.

    Raelle looked at the time on herptop screen and shook her head, "Nope. It''s me. I''m early."

    "And you decided to work right aftering back?" asked Shui Xian.

    Raelle gathered the documents and closed the lid of theptop as she told him, "It''s because when I came you weren''t here. B¨¤ is also not home. So, I decided to keep myself busy in this way."

    "When did youe?"

    "It''s been an hour," replied Raelle. "I had to sign a contract with MH but their VP had some health issue because of which the meeting had to be canceled. So, I left work around 5 o''clock today." She took a pause before adding, "And that''s the earliest I have ever left work. It''s my new personal best."

    Shui Xian chuckled softly as her ''personal best'' before he ced his arm behind her. Her personal best was actually the time people would usually leave work. That meant it was her very first time leaving work right on time like a normal white-cor worker.

    Without realizing it, while talking she leaned into his side. Shui Xian ced his chin on the top of her head as she continued to tell him about her day.

    "Yanyan came to see me at the office today. I didn''t even know she made an appointment. But it was because Cloe wrote her name as MC."

    "Even your Yanyan has to make an appointment to see you?" he asked in surprise.

    "Rules are for everyone," retorted Raelle. "I don''t even break my rules myself."

    "And what if I decided toe to see you? Do I also have to make an appointment?"

    Raelle had opened her mouth to say ''yes'' but she was suddenly reminded of what Mu Chenyan said to her during the day. She had said, ''I don''t want to be that exception. You keep it open for someone else.'' Only now she understood that even if she had to make someone an exception in her set rules, it had to be her husband.

    "You cane anytime you want," she told him and Shui Xian''s brows raised slightly in surprise. "I''ll make an exception for you."

    "Oh? You''ll go against your rules for me?"

    "As my husband, you should get some privilege."

    Shui Xian smiled at her, "So, this is my privilege?"

    "You don''t want it?"

    "Want! Who doesn''t want that? I definitely want it!"

    "I can give you that privilege. It''s not like you''ll have time toe see me at the office anyway."

    Shui Xian moved his arm that was lying behind her on the sofa to her shoulder and turned her slightly to face him as he asked, "What do you mean? You think I won''te to find you at your office?"

    Raelle blinked at him as she said, "But why would you? You see me in the morning and in the evening. Is there a need toe and find me during the day as well?" She took a brief pause and went on, "Besides, do you even have time during the day, Mr. I-skip-my-lunch-for-work?"

    Shui Xian pursed his lips before he touched her nose and said, "It''s not about whether I have time or not, it''s about whether I want to make time for you or not. And something tells me, I''d dly make some time for my wife."

 Chapter 102 - Donâ€™t Want To Let Go

    "You are gonna make time for me?" questioned Raelle. She truly couldn''t understand why he would want to do that. They were husband and wife but they didn''t have to glue to each other every single moment of every single day. Or at least, that''s what she thought. But she still decided to look through the definition of their rtionship all over again to make sure. "Why?"

    Shui Xian smiled at her, "Why not? You gave me a privilege, why can''t I give you one? Since you''re my wife, you should rightfully ask for my time. In fact, you should demand it!"

    "That''d be unnecessary and counterproductive," replied Raelle with a straight face. "And I don''t have a habit of demanding things. If I need your time, I''ll just go to see you myself. Do you really think I''m the kind of person who would wait around for you to make time? I take what I want, I don''t wait for that thing toe to me."

    Shui Xian smiled at her before he ced his hands against her face and kissed her forehead gently. "Wifey, thank you!" Raelle stared at him nkly and he went on, "For being your special self."

    Raelle followed his movements and held his face in her hands before her lips pressed against his forehead softly. Shui Xian was left blinking at her and she said, "You did it as well."

    Shui Xian knew she was referring to the kiss and that''s why his lips curved up at her, "So, you''re following my actions now?" Seeing Raelle nodding, he thought of something and pulled her into hisp. He kissed her cheek and she followed by returning that kiss at the exact same spot. Then he kissed her neck and she again did the same. Shui Xian couldn''t helpughing softly at her as he said, "Why are you following me?"

    "For educational reasons," she replied.

    "Oh?" responded Shui Xian. "And what is this educational study about?"

    "Your physical and emotional reaction," she answered clearly. Shui Xian stared into her eyes as she continued, "When I kissed your forehead, your eyes softened and the frown you were carrying when you came, disappeared. That was very interesting to see. Then when I kissed your face, your eyes held a smile. And..."

    She didn''t even get to finish before he hugged her waist and leaned his head against hers. He didn''t think she was insensitive as people said. The things she tended to notice were something others would always regard as unimportant. She paid attention to such small details around her.

    Without him saying it, she could figure out that something had been bothering him. He really wondered just how did she manage that?

    Raelle ced her hand on top of his hands that were wrapped around her waist. She slowly took his big hand in hers and carefully looked at it. His long, slender fingers, his distinct joints.

    "My assistant said you have beautiful hands," she said surprising him.

    "And what do you have to say?" he questioned.

    "Pretty," sheplimented. "Very pretty indeed."

    He opened his palm before her and told her, "Look carefully, this beautiful hand has many scars." Raelle looked at his palm and found some barely visible scars. Something sharp must have left those cut marks but now, it had been long enough for it to heal. If it wasn''t for her excellent eyesight, she might have not even noticed those scars.

    "Is the one who gave these scars still in your life?" she asked.

    Shui Xian shook his head, "No."

    "That means, in this book of life the page that gave you this paper cut has already been turned over," she said and held up her hand. "I have gotten a lot of paper cuts in my life. But I might not be able to tell you exactly which page gave me a cut. Do you know why?"

    "Why?" he wondered out loud.

    "Because I already turned that page over and allowed that wound to heal. Now, the wound is closed and healed. Is there a point in remembering something unnecessary? You conquered that part of your life. And one should only remember that he won the battle, how he won it should be left on the pages of history."

    Shui Xian contemted over her words and didn''t know what to say. But he wasn''t even surprised now. He could hardly say anything to her. "So, you still think my hands are pretty?" Raelle nodded her head honestly. "Is it beautiful enough for you to want to hold it?"

    He held up his left hand and Raelle intertwined the fingers of her left hand with him as she retorted, "What do you think?"

    He rotated their intertwined hands and ced a kiss on her hand as he said, "But I think, it looks more beautiful now." He brought up their hands and rubbed her hand against his cheek as he added, "With my wife''s hand in mine."

    "How?" she questioned.

    Shui Xian pressed his lips together and said, "If two beautiful thingse together, don''t they make an even more beautiful picture?"

    "That sounds about right," replied Raelle.

    "I''m holding my gorgeous wife''s hand, how can it not look perfect?"

    "That makes sense," said Raelle making him smile at her as he shook his head slightly at her.

    Amanda Mosher wrote, ''There is nothing more beautiful than a vulnerable heart in open hands.''

    And right now, Shui Xian didn''t even realize how vulnerable his heart was before her. Currently, he also didn''t realize how big part of his life was revolving around her. Without him realizing it, she had been stuck on his mind from the moment he first met her. The surprising fact was that he didn''t try to get her out of his head even then and he didn''t want to do it even now.

    Suddenly recalling something, Raelle made a sound, "Oh! Don''t we have a match today?"

    Shui Xian also remembered that and nodded his head, "Yes, we do."

    "Then why are you wasting time?" asked Raelle as she jumped down from his legs and tried to pull out her hand from his. But she wasn''t able to. She looked back at him, "Let go of my hand. I have to get ready."

    "I suddenly don''t want to let go," he said.

 Chapter 103 - Ripe Tomatoes

    Shui Xian didn''t just say those words, he actually meant it. The spaces between his fingers were like the room that had been looking for her hand. The way her hand fit into his made him realize how perfect it looked. At this moment, Shui Xian felt like there was nothing moreforting than having her hand in his own.

    He and his heart had been wearing scars for years now, but it was the first time someone made him feel the beauty of those scars. Holding her hand was like a reminder that one couldn''t force anything in life; either it''s a conversation, friendship, attention, love, or rtionships. We spend years trying to force things that deep down we even know are not worth fighting for. Sometimes, it was alright to let things flow naturally.

    This was the lesson that brought Raelle into his life. Because he knew whatever was meant to crash had already crashed. Whatever he desperately tried to hold on to had drifted away from him in the end. It was time for him to let nature take its course. Even he''d have never thought that nature''s course would lead him to her.

    And now that he found someone who was willing to hold his scarred hand, his heart had begun to feel hopeful again. Maybe it was time for his luck to change. Perhaps if he held onto this hand, his aching heart would no longer burn. Maybe she''d be able to extinguish the fire of anguish that had been burning his soul.

    Raelle continued to patiently wait for him to let go of her hand, she didn''t try to forcefully pull her hand out of his either. She just nced at his eyes that had been stuck on their intertwined hands.

    "You really don''t want to let go?" she asked. Shui Xian didn''t look up but he shook his head in response to show his stance. "Okay, then. Come with me." Shui Xian''s eyes lifted as he looked back at her. "We can go together."

    Shui Xian stood up with a smile and said, "Okay."

    Raelle eyed his smile from the corner of her eyes but didn''t say anything. They went back to their room together. Although Shui Xian was reluctant, he still had to let her hand go when he changed his clothes. However, he was surprised to see that when he came out, he found her extended hand right before his eyes.

    He looked at her red uniform with a ck belt tied around her waist with her name embroidered in golden thread. He took her hand as they both came downstairs. Shui Xian brought her to the gym where the mats had already been arranged for their bout.

    "Now, you really have to let go of my hand," said Raelle and he let it go. But his eyes didn''t leave her figure as she stood before the ss walls looking over the swimming pool. The gym had two ss walls looking over the huge swimming pool and the garden on either side. But he usually found her looking at the swimming pool for some reason.

    Raelle stretched her body before doing some warm-up exercises. As they faced each other, she said, "You don''t have to go easy on me just because I am a woman."

    Shui Xian shrugged his shoulders, "I wasn''t nning on doing so."

    "Don''t you think there should be a reward for the winner," suggested Raelle.

    "What do you have in mind?" he inquired.

    "For now, I have nothing on my mind except for you," she replied very honestly and straightforwardly. Shui Xian had to say that for someone with zero rtionship experience, she was certainly very good at flirting.

    "You want me to offer myself as a reward?" He had a thoughtful look as he said, "But I thought you don''t like taking a loss."

    "How is it my loss?"

    "Because I''m already yours," he replied. "Legally."

    Raelle got into the right posture forbat as she looked at him and said, "I still think I won''t be taking a loss here."

    Shui Xian eyed her before he also mentally and physically prepared himself for the bout. Both of them attentively focused on the other''s movements as they looked for an opening.

    Finding an opening, Shui Xian''s left hand grabbed the sleeve of her same side of the hand before his right hand went behind her neck. Taking a step back, he winked at her before lifting her body. Her body made an arc of 180 degrees before her back was mmed against the mat.

    As he sat on her trying to hold her body down, he smiled at her, "Aiyo, wifey, did you get hurt?"

    "Save that concern for yourself," she replied before she elbowed his arm to break the posture that held her down and turned them over. Now, she sat on his body and ced her forearm against his neck to keep him down.

    He grabbed thepels of her uniform and pulled her face down, purposely keeping his lips an inch away from hers as he said, "I was hoping for you to reciprocate that concern of mine."

    Even when they were struggling to turn each other over, Raelle still managed to touch the tip of his ear making his body stiffen for half a second as she said, "Howe your ears turn so red whenever I touch them?" She lowered her face as she brought it close to his ear and added in a low voice, "Are they allergic to me?"

    Taking his chance, Shui Xian moved his legs and dropped her on her back again. "Or maybe, with your touch, they take the shape of ripe tomatoes. Wanting you to take a bite."

    "Oh?" responded Raelle before she arched her body up and used her leg to lift his body off of herself in a swift movement. She ced her hand on his bare chest that was revealed right before her eyes and said, "Then maybe I should take a bite, what do you say?"

    She offered him a smile, and sighed, "Don''t smile at me. It''s ugly."

    Raelle paused at those words and he took advantage of her distraction totch his legs around her torse and locking her body in.

 Chapter 104 - Save Water & Time

    Just as his legs wrapped around her torso and locked her in, she could tell what he was intending to do. But she didn''t care as her mind was focused on his words.

    He just called her smile ugly.

    Raelle''s face instantly lost the ''ugly'' smile as her expressionless face stared at him.

    "This is the first time someone has given me a very honestpliment," said Raelle surprising Shui Xian. "I also think my smile is ugly. At least, it looks ugly before yours." With her hand holding the front of his white uniform, she said, "But I spent three years trying to practice this ugly smile before the mirror. I should at least get the credit for my effort."

    Seeing how she was trying to twist her way out of his lock, he grabbed her wrists to break her posture and moved her hands from his body to the mat in a swift movement. He did it so nimbly that Raelle lost the momentum and her upper body jerked ahead.

    Her face was close to his neck now as he isted her hand before she could attack back and whispered, "You''re a realist person. It''s a shame that you''re trying to fake a smile to fit in." He moved up to post onto his elbow for elevation. Next, with his free hand, he reached over her shoulder and looped under her arm where hetched onto the wrist of his other hand.

    Right when he fell on his back at an angle toplete the Kimura submission, her boneless body squirmed out of his lock in a way that even he couldn''t see it. Before he could react, she held him against the ground, face front. She sat on his back as she had twisted his arm behind his back.

    "Who said I practiced that smile to fit in?" she responded. "It was to make my Opa feel reassured. I don''t have a habit of trying to please people. And the only person whom I actually try to please is my grandfather."

    She could see him gritting his teeth because of how she twisted his arm but he was still not submitting. It had to be painful. Hyson would always give up because of pain at this point. Then why wasn''t he doing the same?

    "You''re not gonna give up?" she asked.

    "And ept that I lost?" he retorted. "Not happening!"

    "But there is no way, you''d be able to escape this," she reminded him.

    "There is always a way," his words had just fallen when his free hand held her bent knee and tugged with full force, cracking her posture before he rolled on his back. Both of them were currently in such a tangled position that Raelle''s body fell on him.

    As Raelle nose hit the side of his face, she said, "I didn''t know you''re stubborn."

    "I usually am not stubborn," replied Shui Xian as he held her chin. "But when I want someone, I intend to be unyielding."

    Raelle nodded her head as her lips brushed past his cheek towards his lips. With her lips against his, she went on, "How interesting... So do I."

    Shui Xian smiled against her lips before he lifted his head to capture her lips into a kiss. Raelle turned her head to respond to his kiss. Right when the kiss was about to turn heated...

    "Elle! Xian! Let''s have dinn-! Cough! Cough!" Shui Koshing ended up choking on his words when he was met with the scene of his son and his wife making out in that posture on the ground.

    Both Raelle and Shui Xian turned their heads to look at him while Shui Koshing had turned his eyes towards the ceiling as he said, "I have night blindness. I didn''t see a thing. Please, continue!" Saying that he turned around to leave with excitement palpable on his face.

    "B¨¤!" Shui Xian called out to him. "Why do you look so happy if you didn''t see anything?"

    "I am a happy person, to begin with," replied Shui Koshing. "Unlike my son who is always blue."

    Raelle sat up as she asked, "B¨¤, did you juste back?"

    Shui Koshing still didn''t turn around but he nodded his head, "Yeah. I was with Uncle Yu who asked me to call you both over for dinner. He is alone at home tonight."

    "Opa is alone at home?" asked Raelle. "Where is Yanyan?"

    "Mu Chenyan called to say that she''ll spend the night at a friend''s ce," answered Shui Koshing as much as he knew. He didn''t know further details so he couldn''t tell her anything else from this.

    Raelle thought about it. She knew Mu Chenyan went to see Mama Yue, but she didn''te back home for the night? That was a little unexpected because Mu Chenyan had never spent a night out.

    However, if one asked the same thing from Elder Xiang, he''d like to disagree. Because the Mu Chenyan he knew had a long history of noting home at night. In fact, he had seen her sneaking back home at the break of dawn way too many times. Just because she hadn''t done it in the past two decades, he really didn''t believe that she changed. Someone like her would never be able to lose her old habits so easily.

    "You can leave first," said Shui Xian. "We''ll join you after washing up."

    "Alright," replied Shui Koshing. "But don''t forget. One should always save water and save time."

    Shui Xian gaped at his father, "B¨¤! What are you even saying?"

    "I didn''t say anything," retorted Shui Koshing.

    "Do you really think I didn''t get your meaning?" asked Shui Xian.

    "If you did, then follow it as well," saying that Shui Koshing didn''t stick around and left.

    Raelle tugged at Shui Xian''s sleeve and as he looked at her face, she asked, "I didn''t understand his meaning."

    Shui Xian ced his hand on her head and said, "There is no need to understand his meaning. It isn''t important."

    Raelle stared at him, "But he asked us to save water and save time. I don''t think there is anything wrong with that advice."

    "Wife, we are not doing it!" was Shui Xian''s firm response.

    "We are not doing what?" she inquired as she stared at him with nk innocence.

 Chapter 105 - Do It Another Time

    When Raelle wanted an answer, she''d do anything to find that answer for herself. And currently, she was doing exactly that. She followed Shui Xian around as she kept asking, "What did he mean?"

    "There is no meaning other than the one you understood," saying that Shui Xian entered the bathroom to avoid answering her but he really was forgetting who his wife was. Because Raelle followed him even inside the bathroom without any care.

    Raelle trapped him against the basin and said, "Then why do I think there was another meaning behind those seemingly simple words?" She took a pause and went on, "If you won''t answer, I''ll have to look for someone who is willing to make me understand."

    Shui Xian held her shoulders and tried to look for the right words. "Mmm... Save water and save time means he suggested we should take a bath together."

    "Oh!" Raelle had a look of understanding. "That''s actually a good idea."

    Shui Xian''s face wrinkled as he said, "Why am I not even surprised at this point?" He turned her around as he tried to send her out of the bathroom saying, "As I said earlier, we are not doing it!"

    "But why?" she asked as she tried to look at his face.

    Shui Xian sent her out the door and held the door saying, "Because if we took a bath together, we are not gonna be able to save either water or time!" With that, he closed the door leaving her out. And this time, he locked the door as well. He leaned against the door and sighed out, "Is it just my wife or the younger generation is bing brazen?"

    "It''s alright!" he heard her voice from the other side of the door. "We can do it together another time."

    Shui Xian shook his head with his lips curved up in a small smile as he walked over to the mirror. As he looked at his reflection, he facepalmed himself, "There is nothing wrong with her. She is my wife already. She definitely doesn''t need to act coy to catch my attention."

    ....

    When Shui Koshing went back to Grandfather Xiang''s ce, he was still beaming from ear to ear. He could finally die in peace now. There was nothing that could make him happier than seeing his son''s smile finding its way back to him. And knowing that Raelle was the person behind that smile was just like the cherry on top.

    "Where are they?" asked Grandfather Xiang when he noticed that Shui Koshing hade back alone.

    "They areing in a while," replied Shui Koshing as he sat down beside him.

    Grandfather Xiang asked the servants to set the table for dinner. "Why do you look so happy all of sudden?"

    Shui Koshing didn''t hide his happiness as he replied, "You''ll know in a minute."

    Grandfather Xiang eyed him doubtfully. But soon, he found the answer indeed. Because when he saw Raelle and Xian entering the house hand-in-hand, even his eyes couldn''t help showing the happiness he felt in his heart.

    Shui Xian went to greet Grandfather Xiang respectfully. After they were done with the pleasantries, everyone gathered around for dinner. While Grandfather Xiang took the head seat like always, Shui Koshing sat on his right side while Raelle took the chair on his left with Shui Xian sitting beside her.

    "Opa, where is Yanyan?" asked Raelle. "B¨¤ said she isn''ting home tonight. Is that true?"

    Grandfather Xiang nodded his head, "Yes, she is gonna spend the night with her only friend."

    "I know she went to meet Yue, but I didn''t think she''d want to stay over for the night," stated Raelle.

    Grandfather Xiang snickered, "She must have caused a blunder. So, obviously, she''d try her best to hide it from me now." He was very clear about Mu Chenyan''s personality. There was no way he was willing to believe that she just felt like spending a night over at Mother Yue''s house out of the blue.

    "You think something happened?" inquired Raelle.

    "Either she did something or she is about to do something," replied Grandfather Xiang.

    "But what can she do?" was Raelle''s question.

    "Obviously, drink till she drops," muttered Grandfather Xiang under his breath. Raelle eyed him suspiciously and he said, "Let her do what she wants to do. At the very least, she is willing to step out of the house after decades. That''s more than enough for me."

    "That makes sense," agreed Raelle. "As long as she is happy."

    When the servants brought the dishes to the table, Grandfather Xiang said, "Elle, serve Xian some food."

    Raelle pointed at herself, "Me?"

    "Who else?" retorted Grandfather Xiang.

    "I have never even served food for myself," said Raelle.

    "Whose husband is he?" asked Grandfather Xiang patiently.

    "Mine," replied Raelle without missing a beat.

    "Then who should be taking care of his needs?"

    Raelle thought about it before answering, "Me?"

    "Touch¨¦!"

    Shui Xian looked at their interaction in silence as he was being amused by Raelle''s reactions. But when he saw her trying to extend her hand towards thedle, he held her hand and said, "I can do it myself."

    Raelle looked at him, "Didn''t you hear my grandfather? He said it''s my job to take care of you as your wife."

    Shui Xian patted her hand saying, "And it''s my job to take care of you as your husband. So, let me do my job."

    Raelle instantly leaned back in her chair and held up the empty bowl to him. Shui Xian took the bowl from her hands anddled some soup for her before he ced the bowl before her.

    But seeing how she picked up the spoon to drink the soup, he had to stop her again saying, "Don''t rush it. It''s still very hot."

    "Oh..." responded Raelle.

    Both Grandfather Xiang and Shui Koshing''s eyes were focused on these newlyweds. However, Shui Xian was focused on serving side dishes to Raelle as he watched her eat before he started eating himself.

 Chapter 106 - Treasure

    After the harmonious dinner, Grandfather Xiang said to Raelle, "Elle, Xian came to our home for the first time. Shouldn''t you show him around?"

    "I have never even looked around this house myself," said Raelle honestly.

    While Shui Xian looked at her in surprise, Grandfather Xiang mentally rolled his eyes at her.

    "Then take him to your room to look around," suggested Grandfather. "I believe you know the way to your room?"

    Raelle nodded her head, "I do know the way..." She looked at Shui Xian and said, "Hubby, go upstairs, the room at the far right end is mine. You can find the way."

    Grandfather Xiang ced the ss of water on the table with a little force. Hearing that loud sound, Raelle looked at him as he said, "When you first went to his house, didn''t he show you around?"

    "He gave me the home tour because he wanted to," replied Raelle. "I didn''t ask for it. He offered it himself."

    "Xiang Yenay!"

    Raelle instantly stood up saying, "There is no one with that name around here, Opa." She held Xian''s arm and pulled him up saying, "Come, Hubby, I''ll show you my old room."

    Shui Xian followed her upstairs and watching them leave, Shui Koshing said, "Uncle Yu, if you hadn''t mentioned it, I almost forgot that Elle''s original name was Yenay."

    "She doesn''t like that name," replied Grandfather Xiang. "So, we hardly mention it."

    "It''s a beautiful name though with a beautiful meaning; She who loves," said Shui Koshing. "I wonder why she doesn''t like it."

    "Her likes and dislikes had been a mystery to us," stated Grandfather Xiang.

    "Uncle Yu, they look good together, right?"

    Grandfather Xiang''s eyes softened as he nodded, "They really look good together."

    Shui Koshing looked pleased with thatpliment as he said, "I told you, they''d make a perfect match." He took a brief pause to add, "I''m d that you agreed to let Raelle marry into my family."

    "I had no reason to refuse," replied Grandfather Xiang. "Just because Xian is divorced, it won''t change what kind of a person he is at heart. His divorce doesn''t make him a failure. If anything, it makes him more outstanding. Because now, he knows better."

    "No wonder, Raelle''s views on life are so different," said Shui Koshing. "She definitely learned it from you."

    Grandfather Xiang looked at Shui Koshing''s expressions and asked, "But I still don''t know why you insisted on making Raelle your daughter-inw even after all these years."

    Shui Koshing had a thoughtful expression before saying, "Uncle Yu, when one gets a wound, he has to apply an ointment to heal the wound. Because, if the wound is not treated properly on time, it''ll be infectious." Grandfather Xiang squinted his eyes as Shui Koshing continued, "But when an ointment is applied on a wound, it stings. It has to hurt a little before ites to heal."

    "What are you trying to say here?" questioned Grandfather Xiang.

    "Raelle is like that ointment in my Xian''s life," replied Shui Koshing. "Her truthful words might be painful but they can sure bring one some peace. I knew she could heal the wounds on Xian''s heart. Because she is capable of doing that." He looked at Grandfather Xiang as he added, "No one''s flowery speech was able to heal my son. Because he needed a bitter pill that he wasn''t offered until now."

    "It''s because your son is capable of swallowing the bitter pill of truth that I wanted Raelle to marry him," Grandfather Xiang added.

    ....

    Following the instructions of her grandfather, Raelle had indeed brought Shui Xian straight to her room. She didn''t make any stop on the way. She only stopped at the door of her room and pushed it open saying, "Here we are!"

    Shui Xian followed her inside and momentarily paused. Seeing the familiar tones of her room, he finally understood why she didn''t want to change anything in his room. There wasn''t much difference between their rooms. Except for the fact that behind her bed was a metal bookshelf that had a reading desk before it as well.

    In fact, just by taking one nce at this room, one could tell that the owner loved to read books. And he had alreadye to understand her fondness for books.

    "I don''t know whether to say that I wasn''t expecting your room to look like this or say that it''s exactly as I thought it''d be," stated Shui Xian as he looked around.

    "What do you mean?" asked Raelle.

    "I mean to say that I was expecting there''d be a lot of books in your room and there are indeed a lot of books here. But apart from that, I was expecting to see bright shades in your room and not thisbination of ck, white, and grey." He smiled at her as he said, "Now I know why you said our colors match well together."

    "I already told you," said Raelle.

    "Yes, you did," he agreed as he hugged her from behind and settled his chin on her shoulder.

    Raelle didn''t push him away, instead, she said, "You can look around all you want. I don''t know why Opa wanted me to show you my room. It''s not you''ll find a treasure here."

    "I''ll definitely not find the treasure here anymore," Shui Xian agreed again. He kissed her ear saying, "Because I already took the treasure to my home."

    Raelle paused before she turned around while Shui Xian''s hands were still around her. She ced her hands on his chest as she said, "I''m sorry but I think you know I''m a bit slow in understanding certain things."

    "I know," he replied.

    "So, correct me if I''m wrong but did the ''treasure'' you referred to is actually me?"

    Shui Xian''s smile widened as he kissed her forehead and said, "Yes. The said treasure is actually my wife."

    Raelle was left blinking at him nkly, not knowing what to say to him at all. Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan called her precious and special respectively. It was her first time hearing someone call her a treasure. And it actually left her mind in disarray for a moment.

 Chapter 107 - Willing To Wait

    Shui Xian found her expressionless face quite amusing for some reason. She took a moment before saying, "That sounded like something Hyson would say to flirt around." Shui Xian''s brows lifted up slightly and he went on, "Does that mean you''re flirting right now?"

    "No, I''m being very serious," he replied with a sincere look on his face.

    "Oh..." was all she could say in reply.

    "By the way, did Hyson even date before?"

    "Nope," replied Raelle.

    "Then why is he flirting around if he isn''t even gonna date someone?"

    "He does it just for fun," she told him. "You can look around, whatever there is to look around." With that, she stepped out of his arms. "I have to find something."

    Shui Xian watched her walking towards what he assumed was the closet and then walked around her room. There wasn''t anything ''extra'' in her room which made her room look very spacious even with the number of books she had. He walked over to the bookshelf and his hand traced the titles of neatly arranged books.

    There were all sorts of strange books but mostly he could find the ones rted to science or psychology. And he actually understood the reason behind that as well. She seemed to love science and she had a keen interest in human psychology. But aside from that, he could find some books rted to business as well.

    On her reading table, there was a thick notebook. He casually opened it but his eyes got stuck on the very first page. In clear and beautiful handwriting, it was written...

    ''Human emotions are confusing andplex. But these emotions have be a driving force in human lives. The value of truth is often forgotten before these emotions because humans tend to care more about what they feel. If the truth doesn''t make them feel good, they often would let a lie rob their lives. And that''s why I believe human emotions make them a fickle person.''

    Shui Xian turned the page and looked at the heading that read, ''Happiness'' and underneath it was a definition that stated, ''Happiness is an emotional state characterized by feelings of joy, satisfaction, contentment, and fulfillment. It is linked with more positive feelings.'' Right under the definition, two pictures were attached of a person who wasughing in one photo and crying in the other. Right beside the photos was another handwritten note, that read...

    ''Humans are indecisive creatures as well. Supposedly, theyugh when they are happy but they shed tears of joy as well. This makes them even more confusing to understand. They can''t even figure out their own feelings.''

    Shui Xian sat down on the chair before the desk as he continued to flipped the pages with interest. This wasn''t just a book. It was his wife''s whole emotional struggle to understand people. From how she understood each and every emotion of humans to how they reacted in certain situations. Even their facial expressions analysis had been done thoroughly.

    He finally understood how she noticed the small changes in his expressions. She had been studying that for all her life now. Seeing all of this made him feel sad for her.

    Now, that he looked at the world of emotions from her perspective, it actually looked rather sad.

    "Found it!"

    Hearing her voice, he closed the book and stood up. He came around the desk and looked at her. She was holding a wristwatch in her hand.

    "Were you looking for that?" he asked.

    Raelle nodded her head, "Yup!"

    "Why?"

    "Just because I wanted to wear it tomorrow," she replied.

    Shui Xian shook his head at her and pointed towards a zed door asking, "What''s there?"

    Raelle beckoned him saying, "Let''s find out together."

    Shui Xian looked at her inscrutable expressions before he walked over to her. She slid the ss door open and walked inside with Shui Xian following right behind. As she turned on the lights, Shui Xian was left staring in surprise.

    It looked like a study room with neatly arranged documents on the table. On the shelves behind, he could see rows of awards that she had received over the years. He already knew his wife was extraordinary but it was still a little surprising to him. She was really an academic genius.

    "Wow!" he eximed in awe. "My wife sure is amazing."

    Raelle looked at his face and said, "But most of the useless trophies are back in Country G."

    "Useless?" repeated Shui Xian. "They are proofs of your aplishments. It means someone is appreciating your work and encouraging you."

    "As if I needed their appreciation to know that I''m doing the right thing. And who asked for their encouragement? I don''t feel like proving my worth and I certainly don''t need their eptance," she said with a vacant look on her face. "Besides, all these trophies are only taking up space here."

    "Right," Shui Xian just agreed in a small voice. "It surely is taking up a lot of space."

    "But it''s a good thing, I have enough space to amodate useless things," replied Raelle making him want to facepalm himself.

    His wife and her antics definitely were out of this world!

    Apart from those awards, he found music albums arranged on the lower shelf as well. He picked up one of the albums. It was a signed copy from the boy group, he was familiar with.

    "Did Hyson gave you these?" asked Shui Xian.

    Raelle nodded her head, "Yes, he always sends me the first signed copy of the albums."

    "I didn''t think you''d like pop music though," said Shui Xian.

    Raelle leaned against the wall with her arms crossed against her chest as she said, "It''s not like if I don''t like pop music, you''ll make the music I like."

    Shui Xian paused for a minute. It wasn''t that he wasn''t capable of doing so. It was just that he had distanced himself from music for years now. He hadn''t even picked up his guitar in a long while now. And once upon a time, he couldn''t sleep without his guitar in his hands.

    "Maybe I will," he replied to her. "One day."

    Raelle observed the look on his face for a while before saying, "Then I''ll wait for that ''one day.''"

    "You are really willing to wait?" he inquired doubtfully.

    "I am a very patient person, Hubby," said Raelle. "My patience might surprise you."

 Chapter 108 - Random Questions

    Inside a dimly lit room, a faint sound of crooning could be heard. A figure held the alcohol bottle tightly as it was being used as a microphone currently.

    ???After all this time you didn''t call

    Are you gonna say it''s still my fault?

    After all this time you didn''t cry

    Is it because we''ve already said goodbye? ???

    Mother Yue had her chin perched on her hands on the table as she looked at Mu Chenyan who was quite drunk by now. It''d be a surprise if she wasn''t drunk after drinking so much alcohol. She was sitting on the rug cross-legged with her bodypletely leaning forward on the low table before her.

    She picked up a peanut and threw it at Mu Chenyan''s face. It hit Mu Chenyan''s forehead and she finally stopped singing and looked at Mother Yue.

    "What''s wrong, Yue? You don''t like my song? Should I sing a different one for you?"

    Mother Yue tried to convey her words through the hand signs but Mu Chenyan couldn''t understand anything as she said, "Yue, you have six hands. I''m confused about which one to look at right now."

    Mother Yue rolled her eyes at Mu Chenyan before she took her phone and opened the virtual assistant to use the text-to-speech function and typed her words in. Soon, Mu Chenyan heard a female voice from the phone saying, "You''re making me wish I had lost the ability to hear instead of losing the ability to speak! Stop torturing my ears already!"

    Mu Chenyan giggled at that saying, "I''m sorry! I forget that I suck at singing when I''m drunk."

    "Don''t me alcohol for being tone deaf!"

    Mu Chenyan pouted at Mother Yue when she heard that response from her phone.

    Mother Yue looked at Mu Chenyan for a while before she typed again into the phone. Again, Mu Chenyan heard that female voice again, "I''m kinda worried about you."

    "Huh?" Mu Chenyan looked confused. "Why?" Saying that she dunked another piece of fried chicken inside the alcohol before taking a bite of it.

    Mother Yue''s eyes followed her movements. One could clearly see why she was worried about this woman before her. She shook her head and decided not to say anything else. There was really no point in doing so.

    Mu Chenyan was also sitting on the rug but one of her legs was propped on the cushion, she couldn''t fold it. Although she said the sprain on her ankle wasn''t painful, Mother Yue didn''t believe her. While Mu Chenyan didn''t care about her wounds, Mother Yue''s motherly nature couldn''t allow her to be careless.

    Mu Chenyan''s back leaned against the sofa behind her as she came up with an idea, "Yue, let''s y a game!" Mother Yue eyed her with furrowed brows as she went on, "How about random questions? You either answer the question or you drink."

    Mother Yue used her virtual assistant to convey her words again, "Are you just looking for excuses to drink more tonight?"

    Mu Chenyanughed at her, "Nah! Tonight, I don''t need any excuses to drink." She emptied her ss of alcohol before asking, "So, shall we begin?"

    "I go first," came the voice from Mother Yue''s phone and Mu Chenyan agreed.

    "Okay. You can start the game, I don''t mind," said Mu Chenyan generously.

    Mother Yue didn''t even take a minute before she typed her question, "Why did you drop out of Medical school?" Before Mu Chenyan could say anything, Mother Yue typed further, "And don''t give me the usual crap of how you suddenly got bored of it. I don''t think you are that impulsive."

    Mu Chenyanughed out again as she said, "Yue, if you really think I''m not impulsive, then you really don''t know me at all." Mother Yue narrowed her eyes at the woman before her as thetter went on, "I have done a lot of impulsive things in my life. Following my best friend to Medical School was one of those impulsive decisions. And when I realized my impulsiveness, I decided to drop out."

    "Why do I think there is more to this story?" Mother Yue''s response came almost immediately.

    Mu Chenyan put her finger on her lips, "Shhh..." Then she shook her finger before Mother Yue''s eyes and went on, "There is always more to the story. But it doesn''t mean we should discuss it." She took a pause before she added, "Now, it''s my turn. How long did you date Yue Fai''s father?"

    Mother Yue took a bite of the fried chicken before taking a sip of the beer. Mu Chenyan patiently waited for her to type before she heard the answer, "Who said I dated Yue Fai''s father?"

    Mu Chenyan stared at her wide-eyed, "Didn''t you love him?"

    "I loved him, but who said anything about him reciprocating my feelings?"

    Mu Chenyan''s mouth opened and closed a few times like a fish. It seemed funny to Mother Yue.

    "You guys never even went on a date?" questioned Mu Chenyan.

    Mother Yue shook her head in reply before typing her answer, "He doesn''t even know I had loved him for years. He always had someone else in his heart."

    Mu Chenyan tsked at those words before saying, "Khaled Hosseini wrote, ''A man''s heart is a wretched, wretched thing. It isn''t like a mother''s womb. It won''t bleed. It won''t stretch to make room for you.'' Now I understand what exactly was he referring to. When they have someone in their heart, they''d never make room for your love."

    She suddenly frowned a little before pointing at Mother Yue, "You! If you guys never dated and he doesn''t even know that you loved him, where the hell did Yue Faie from? Did he fall from the sky?"

    "Blessings alwayse from above," was Mother Yue''s response making Mu Chenyan squint her eyes at her. "And my son is my biggest blessing in this life."

    "Yue, you know what I meant," said Mu Chenyan. She emptied another ss of alcohol before saying, "I have to drink more now. Hearing your words has suddenly made me sober again."

    Mother Yue silently chuckled at Mu Chenyan''s response. She typed another message, "I have never repeated how Yue Fai came into my life, so don''t ask anything regarding that. It makes me feel bad for my son and I don''t want to feel that way again."

 Chapter 109 - Regret

    "It''s your turn again," reminded Mu Chenyan as she gazed at Mother Yue waiting for her question.

    Mother Yue thought about it for a while before she typed on her phone and let the virtual assistant convey her question, "Are you still in contact with Raelle''s parents?"

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her eye as she replied, "I haven''t seen her mother in years. But I do get to see her father every year."

    Mother Yue looked surprised as she typed, "Every year?"

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head and repeated, "Every year." Seeing the confusion on Mother Yue''s face, she borated, "I always followed Elder Xiang back to our hometown on Madam Xiang''s death anniversary. Ge always shows up there as well. Even though Elder Xiang never allowed him anywhere near Madam Xiang''s grave, he still stubbornly shows up." She took a pause and sighed out, "I think stubbornness runs in their blood. Both father and son are equally difficult."

    "What about Raelle''s siblings? Have you met them?"

    Mu Chenyan shook her head and replied, "Even though it was my turn, I''ll still give you an answer. I haven''t seen or met them."

    "You don''t like them?"

    "It''s nothing like that," replied Mu Chenyan. "It''s not that I don''t like them, it''s just that I like my Elle a lot more. In fact, no one can take her ce in my life."

    "Even a blind person can see that no one can take Raelle''s ce in your life."

    Mu Chenyan smiled at Mother Yue and patted her own cheeks before asking, "Now, it''s my turn... And my question is... Don''t you miss your home? Your family?"

    Mother Yue pressed her lips together before she lowered her head and focused on typing her answer. Soon, Mu Chenyan was able to hear her reply, "I just miss my father. There is nothing else for me to miss. But now, I have gotten way too used to living without him as well." Mu Chenyan noticed a nostalgic smile on Mother Yue''s face as she typed further, "When I went to study in Country F, I missed my dad so much that I ran back home every two weeks. And now, it''s been 24 years and I still don''t feel going back to see him."

    Mu Chenyan snorted at her, "Isn''t it because you can often see him on tv? You get to see that he is healthy, that''s why you are looking so indifferent right now." She suddenly recalled something and eximed, "Aiyo, Yue Fai is just like you! He also didn''t care about his schrship and ran back to you from Country G just because he couldn''t live without his mom."

    Mother Yue chuckled silently and agreed, "He is indeed like me."

    "Since you asked two questions, I''ll do it as well," began Mu Chenyan. "My next question is... Is there anything you regret in your life?"

    Mother Yue didn''t respond for a long while. Her eyes stared at Hyson''s photo that was hanging in the living room in a daze before she typed for quite a while and ced the phone before Mu Chenyan. This time, she didn''t turn on the text-to-speech function. Instead, she made Mu Chenyan read her words on her own.

    Curiously, Mu Chenyan picked up the phone and squinted her eyes at the string of words on the screen and her heart evoked a strange ache.

    Before her eyes, it was written, ''I don''t know if I should call it, regret or not. But I wish I hadn''t lost my voice back then. If hadn''t lost my voice, my son wouldn''t have been bullied for his mother''s shorings. If I hadn''t lost my voice, my son wouldn''t have looked at other kids'' mothers who called out their names lovingly. He thought he could hide it, but he was still a kid. I could clearly see that my son yearned to hear his mother call his name. And if I talk about regret, it''d be that I never got to sing a luby to my son. It makes my heart ache whenever I think of how he used to look at me in silence and yet he never voiced out any of it.''

    Reading her thoughts, Mu Chenyan didn''t know whether it was because she was really drunk and her emotions were all over the ce or were there some other reason but a lone tear slid down her face. She always lost control of her emotions only when it involved Raelle. Most of the time, she was too indifferent to the rest of the people around her.

    As for why Mother Yue''s words hurt so much must be because she had seen Hyson grow up with Raelle. There was more than one simrity between Hyson and Raelle. They both were extremely sensible from a young age and both weren''t unreasonable. Maybe that''s why they both never had any excessive demands from life or the people around them as well.

    Mu Chenyan crawled over to Mother Yue''s side and cing her arms around her shoulder, she pulled her in for a hug saying, "You know why I like you so much? I hate weak women who like to me others for what happened to them. But you aren''t like that. Instead of ming people or life, you have always fought for yourself. That''s what I love about you and trust me, Yue Fai also loves that about you. You have no idea how proud he is to have you as a mother."

    Mother Yue looked up at Mu Chenyan with tears brimming in her eyes but she was resolutely trying to hold back her tears. Mu Chenyan patted her head as she went on, "You might think since you couldn''t speak, it became a hindrance for Yue Fai but he thinks the opposite. It''s because of you that he learned to be strong. You became his strength to face the world. That is why he worships you like God. It''s because he knew he had to fight with the world for you that he had been trying his best to be strong." She offered her a smile and added, "So, don''t ever call it a regret again."

 Chapter 110 - Offer You A Smile

    It was past 10 o''clock when Raelle and Shui Xian went back to their house meanwhile Shui Koshing had decided to stay with Grandfather Xiang. Although Grandfather Xiang tried to send him back, Shui Koshing was pretty adamant so Grandfather Xiang could only give up on persuading him.

    When Raelle and Shui Xian went back home, both continued with their bedtime routine. While Shui Xian leaned against the headboard, his eyes were stuck on Raelle who was rubbing something on her body. And ording to Shui Xian''s observation, she had the same routine every day.

    First, she would apply a night cream then she would take a tour of the closet and take out the outfit for the next day. After that, she would sit down on the bed and take her iPad to look through her schedule for the next day. And there was always a book at her side table that she would pick up to read for about 15 minutes. However, those 15 minutes were very productive for her because, in just thest four days, this was the second book on her side.

    She even followed this schedule after they were done fooling around. No matter if she''d be tired or not, this whole routine had to happen.

    Usually, he would check his email or just browse on his iPad while she read but today, his eyes just couldn''t move from her face. He didn''t know whether she couldn''t tell he was looking at her or was she ignoring him on purpose but not even once did she turn her eyes towards him. He was seriously being treated like wind and oddly, he didn''t mind it at all.

    Instead, a smile hung at the corner of his lips as he observed the way her eyes skimmed over the words. A few loose strands fell over the side of her face obstructing his view and he frowned slightly before his hand extended on its own to tuck her hair behind her ear. Even then, Raelle hadn''t paid him any attention. She was really lost in the world of the book in her hands.

    He should have felt annoyed at being ignored but didn''t. He found her attention to be quite fascinating. Maybe that''s why the hand that had gone to her side just to tuck her hair behind her ear had lingered right there. His fingertips slowly caressed the tip of her ear.

    Raelle paused for a second as she finally noticed his movements but didn''t stop him. Instead, she closed the book in her hands and ced it back on her side table.

    As she turned her head slightly to gaze at him, he said, "It''s only been 5 minutes, aren''t you gonna read more?" Raelle shook her head in reply. "Why?"

    "I''m taking your advice very seriously," she replied. He raised his brow in question and she borated, "Less time with books and more time with people."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips before he opened his arms and gestured her toe closer. Raelle eyed his opened arms for a while before asking, "You''re asking me to go over to your side?"

    "Yes," he replied.

    "But that''s your side of the bed," she said.

    "And I am the one asking you toe over," he enunciated each word clearly.

    Raelle slowly scooted over but stopped as she said, "Wait! Just because you''re giving me the permission to go over to your side of the bed, don''t just assume I''ll let youe over to my side of the bed as well. That''s my personal space."

    Shui Xian didn''t know whether tough or cry at her words. "Husband and wife share everything. Even their beds."

    "We are sharing a bed," she replied.

    "Forget it! Juste over."

    Raelle opened in an ''O'' shape as she went over to his side. Shui Xian held her waist from behind as he pulled her towards himself. Only when her backid against his front did he leaned backfortably and asked, "Who is Yenay?"

    Raelle, who was ying with Shui Xian''s hand that was on her stomach, paused again as she replied, "I''ll tell you honestly since I can''t lie, that''s my birth name." Shui Xian''s eyes widen in surprise as he stared at the side of her head. "However, I don''t like that name and that''s why I officially changed my name to Raelle long ago. But we can''t run from certain things. Opa still likes to call me ''Yenay'' whenever he wants me to agree to something."

    "So, can I call you..."

    "No!" Even before he could finish his question, she had already given her clear cut reply. "I just said I don''t like that name."

    "But I seem to like it," he mumbled softly. And even though Raelle had heard his voice, she didn''tment on it.

    One of his hands twirled the strands of her hair as he asked, "Did you really never took a trip of the house you lived in for six months?"

    "I neither had the time nor any interest," replied Raelle.

    "Wife," he called out.

    "Hm..."

    Xian pressed his lips together and ended up shaking his head, "Nothing."

    Actually, after reading her thoughts on emotions, his heart and mind had been in turmoil. Every single word in that notebook of hers seemed to have pierced his heart and made him question certain things in his life.

    A few words still shed in his mind...

    ''Sadness is the mostmon emotion between humans. In sadness, they often find a connection with each other, and in sadness, they often find sce as well. And that sadness is one they have be most familiar with. However, this sadness has be such a deep part of their lives that most have even forgotten to express their sadness by shedding tears. In fact, the most painful sadness is often hidden behind the most beautiful smile.''

    Her words had entranced him in a way that, he couldn''t bring himself to look away from her now. He lifted her hair off her neck and nted a soft kiss behind her neck.

    "I really want to show you the world," he said in a soft voice.

    "Huh?" Raelle tilted her head to stare at him nkly and he offered a smile in return.

    In his mind, he thought, ''I want to offer you my smile right now. Something tells me, it will look dazzling on you.''

    She said she was willing to wait for him patiently. Those were seemingly very simple words, but to him, they had struck the deepest part of his heart. And if she was willing to give him time, he really felt like he wanted to give her everything in return.

 Chapter 111 - Part Of Life

    5:45 AM...

    Shui Xian usually woke up at 6:45 AM but today, his wife had dragged him off the bed at precisely 5:30 AM. And currently, he was out in the chilly morning breeze running with her. He already knew that Raelle woke up earlier than him since whenever he woke up, he didn''t find her on the bed. But only today, he learned just how early her day actually started.

    d in a white tracksuit, she ran in front of him as he closely followed behind her. There was a track built for running within this residential area. There was even a beautiful man-madeke that looked stunning. And quite a few residents from around here could be seen at this time of the morning. Some were exercising, some were walking, some were having a chat, some were walking their dogs around.

    Shui Xian found it odd knowing that this ce was so lively so early in the morning.

    Raelle turned around to look at him as she asked, "Hubby, why are you so slow?"

    "I''m not slow," he responded. "You''re just too fast."

    "Oh..." she responded before she slowed down her pace to match his.

    Shui Xian was surprised when suddenly her steps matched with his and her figure came right beside his. She looked at his surprised face and said, "What? I am just making sure you''re able to catch up. Wouldn''t wanna lose you."

    Shui Xian''s heart jumped and he pursed his lips not knowing what reply he could give her at this moment. How could someone be so cluelessly adorable? And he also wondered how could she flirt without even realizing it? Or maybe she knew it and was purposely ying with him? But then he looked at her face and dropped thest idea. There was no way she knew what she was doing to his heart!

    "Have you beening for a run daily?" he asked after a moment of silence. Raelle nodded her head in reply. Shui Xian really wanted to smack his own head. He didn''t even realize that she had been out and about like this while he was still rolling in the dreand. "I didn''t think you''d care so much about your health."

    "It''s not about health," she replied. "It has more to do with the environment I grew up in." Shui Xian showed his interest as she went on, "Opa might have discharged from the army but he hasn''t forgotten his conduct. In fact, Yanyan said it has been kind of a tradition in the Xiang family. Everyone must wake up at 5:30 in the morning without exception. No matter how much I mean to Opa, he won''t make me an exception in certain things."

    Shui Xian nodded his head to show that he understood what she meant. And he indeed did understand. Since she had been waking up so early from a young age, it wasn''t a surprise that she didn''t look tired at all. She must have never indulged in excessive sleep in her life and that''s why she really didn''t know the beauty ofzing around in her bed. All of this had just be a part of her life now.

    Both of them stopped near a wooden bench as Shui Xian sat down to rest and Raelle ced her hands on the cold metal railing to look at theke in a distance. Shui Xian drank a mouthful of water and breathed harshly. He did go to the gym every other week but because he had be used to spending excessive time cooped up in his office, the morning run really seemed tiring.

    Suddenly, a Siberian Husky with a ball in his mouth came near the bench where Shui Xian was resting. Shui Xian smiled at the dog as his hands touched the dog saying, "Hey, buddy! Where did youe from?"

    Hearing his voice, Raelle turned her head to look at him. Shui Xian was currently immersed in scratching the dog all over. He seemed to be really enjoying it. Raelle turned her body around as she leaned her back on the railing with her attention on the scene before her eyes.

    Shui Xian had pulled out the ball from the dog''s mouth and asked, "Do you want me to throw it for you?" Seeing the dog''s excited and eager eyes, heughed out and asked, "First, let me find out your name." Saying that he checked the dog cor and sure enough, he found the name. "Coco... Oh, so you''re a girl."

    Raelle''s eyes didn''t move away from Shui Xian''s enthusiastic expressions as he continued to interact with the dog. She watched him tease the dog with the ball in his hand and the dog even jumped up and down before running in circles excitedly. From this interaction, Raelle could deduce that Shui Xian was quite good with dogs.

    Shui Xian expected the dog''s owner to be around there so he did as the dog asked. He threw the ball and let the dog chased it. Watching the dog run after the ball, heughed out again. When he turned his head, he was met with Raelle''s intriguing gaze that was stuck on his face.

    Had he ever mentioned that the way his wife''s obsidian eyes admired him, really was unnerving? It wasn''t intimidating, rather... It felt like when she looked at his face, she couldn''t see anyone else. As if he was the only one before her eyes and he was the only one she was willing to look at. How strange!

    "You like dogs." Raelle''s red lips opened slightly as she stated. It was definitely a statement and not a question. "Why don''t you raise a dog then?"

    Shui Xian''s smile stiffened a little as he said, "I used to have a dog."

    "Where is it now?" she inquired since she hadn''t seen or heard about that dog in the house.

    Shui Xian waited for a while before saying, "Died."

    Raelle could see that way his face muscles were tense. She stepped up and raised her hand. Shui Xian noticed her action as her hand stiffly patted his head once... Twice... And there was a third time as well.

    Why did he feel like a dog all of a sudden?

    Shui Xian was amused by her actions as he asked, "Wifey, what are you doing?"

    Raelle cleared her throat as she took a step back and stated, "Yanyan said, whenever the word ''death'' is mentioned, I''m supposed to console the person for their loss. Rather than saying that..."

    Shui Xian''s brows lifted up slightly as he urged her to continue, "Saying what?"

    "Rather than saying that death is also a part of life. There is no need to feel sorry for it."

 Chapter 112 - Protagonist Of His Life

    Even though Shui Xian had mentally prepared himself to hear something like that when he asked her to continue, his mind still crashed.

    His lips parted but before he could say anything, she interrupted him.

    "Before you tell me I''m beingpassionless, don''t bother. I have heard it way too many times already," she told him in a candid manner. "I can''t rte to the grief of losing someone but that doesn''t mean I''d make fun of someone''s grief. Although I do believe that death is indeed a part of life, I also believe that everyone needs an escape from their grief before it consumes them. There is nothing wrong with crying over the loss of someone you cared about. Just because I can''t understand it, I won''t mock anyone for understanding it. However, you can''t go and y dead with the dead."

    Her tongue darted out to lick her dry lips as she went on, "I heard people say that more than the dead, one should be scared of the people who had died inside. At least, the dead move on after the funeral and can rest in peace. It''s the people who have to live with dead souls who are left restless for life."

    Shui Xian''s eyes shed with an indescribable emotion as he took her hand in his own and told her, "I had a Bichon Frise. We named her Twilight."

    It didn''t take long for Raelle to catch on to the peculiarity of his words. "We?"

    He nodded his head as he went, "We means me and my ex-wife. In fact, when we brought Twilight home, we weren''t even dating at that time. We were just childhood friends." Shui Xian tried to find any change in her expression but couldn''t find it. He didn''t know whether to feel relieved about that or...

    With a mental sigh, he went on, "Actually, it happened when we were 14-15, I think. One night, we wereing back home together when we found Twilight under a bench in the cold night. The poor baby was shivering so badly. Some cruel person abandoned her there. So, we took her to the vet. And since we found her on a twilight night, we named her Twilight. Pretty dumb, I think!"

    Raelle looked at the way he chuckled at himself at the end but didn''t say anything to disturb him. He was clearly having a walk down the memoryne and she didn''t feel like disturbing him. Because she could certainly see the emotions surging in his eyes that he had experienced back then. It somehow made her a part of that memory even though she wasn''t there back then. But currently, she was the one walking down that memoryne with him.

    "Twilight died a month before our divorce was finalized," he finished his words in a heavy tone. Anyone could tell that he was holding back his emotions that he felt intensely. After all, Twilight wasn''t just a dog to him. He had spent so many years with her. She was a part of his life.

    However, since Raelle couldn''t really detect the change in his voice, she still managed to catch on to his feelings because of the way his hand tightened around hers. She mentally went through all that she knew about emotions and came to the conclusion; he was missing either the dog or the time that had passed.

    "When the doctor said we couldn''t save Twilight, I was really upset and scared as well. I didn''t want to let her go but eventually, I had no other choice."

    "I think your Twilight managed to live till this day," said Raelle startling Shui Xian as he looked at her. "She left a ripple in your memories. And as long as she is living in your memories, she can''t be considered dead." Raelle looked into his brown eyes and went on, "And you weren''t scared to let her go. You''re scared to let go of the youth you spent with her. You were scared of losing the years that might be meaningless without her."

    Holding her hand, Shui Xian silently walked back home. On his way, her words kept ringing in his mind. She made him realize why he was so unwilling to forget his ex-wife. She was also a part of his youth. Forgetting her or the love they shared would mean that he had wasted his youth on something that wasn''t even meant to be his. He had wasted his emotions on someone who didn''t even care. And the love he cherished for years would just be meaningless. Exactly, that''s what he had been scared of all this while.

    When they came back home, Raelle took the cup of her milk tea from the maid before ascending the stairs. Shui Xian followed her in a daze. Right, when she reached the top, she abruptly stopped and Shui Xian''s forehead ended up hitting her back. She turned around as he tilted his head up to look at her.

    "Do you want me to buy you a dog?" she asked out of the blue.

    Shui Xian''s brows jumped up, "Do you like pets?"

    "No," she replied straightforwardly.

    "Why not?" he inquired.

    "Troublesome," she replied with her most favorite word. If Cloe had been around, she would have banged her head against the wall hearing her reply.

    Shui Xian gave her a smile as he asked, "If you don''t like pets, why do you want to buy me a dog? Are you trying to impress me?"

    "Do I need to impress you?" she retorted inly.

    Shui Xian shook his head as they walked towards their room and he said, "Then do you think by buying me a new dog, you''d be able to rece Twilight?"

    Raelle shook her head, "No one can rece anyone in this world. Everyone has their own ce. Even if two people end up in the same position, they''d always have a difference of time between them. Because one has to leave that ce for the other to take it." Raelle unzipped the jacket of her tracksuit as she went on, "The chapter you wrote with Twilight has already ended. She might be the protagonist of the chapter you wrote in your youth but since now you''re writing a new chapter of life, it is necessary to change the protagonist as well."

    Saying that she leisurely sat down on the sofa and sipped on her milk tea with her phone in her other hand. And while she continued on her business, she had left Shui Xian in deep thought.

    While she talked about his dog, he could only link it with something else. Or rather, someone else...

    The chapter he wrote with his ex-wife had really ended. Now, the protagonist of his life was this wife of his whocked so many emotions and yet, struck right at his emotions every single time.

 Chapter 113 - Play The Villain

    The weekend rolled in pretty quickly. At least, that''s what Hyson felt. Usually, when he had to follow a strict schedule, he always wished for a day to rest. Needless to say, idols like him didn''t have the luxury to count the weekend as a holiday like white cors who had fixed working hours. They often had activities nned for the weekend as well. The work activities seemed endless.

    But now that every day, he couldze around, he felt like the days were passing very fast and yet very slow. His feelings were contradictory but it wasn''t his fault. He felt like he was soon gonna grow some mold if he didn''t get to do some work soon.

    This had to be med on Raelle. The way she always preferred work over leisure seemed to have rubbed off on Hyson very well. Although he wished for a break once in a while, he indeed had be fond of working as well. And now he was counting days for the audition date so that he could have something to do!

    "Yue Fai,e out for breakfast!"

    Hearing the voice from outside the room, Hyson frowned before rushing out. Seeing Lin Zhen arranging the breakfast on the table, Hyson''s brows furrowed even deeper.

    "Zhen Ge, what are you doing here on a weekend?"

    He really couldn''t help questioning it. After all, Lin Zhen had his own apartment and usually, he would spend most of his free time there. He hadn''t seen Lin Zhen in thest couple of days and had assumed that thetter would spend his time at his own apartment where he had a recording studio to work on. That''s why he was surprised to see Lin Zhen back at their dorm now.

    "Why do you look so displeased seeing me here?" retorted Lin Zhen as he stared at Hyson unhappily.

    Hysonughed awkwardly at him before taking a seat. On his side, a phone rang and he called, "Zhen Ge, your phone is ringing."

    "Help me answer it," called out Lin Zhen from the open kitchen.

    Hyson made a face, "What if it''s your girlfriend?"

    Lin Zhen red at Hyson. "Stop talking nonsense and answer the phone already."

    Hyson chuckled at his reaction before he answered the call and put it on speaker.

    "Boss Lin, he is not waking up!" The person on the other side sounded exasperated. "He is sleeping like a log!"

    Hyson didn''t even have to guess who was being discussed right now. He burst outughing as he looked at Lin Zhen, "Zhen Ge, you even have someone following Yi Ge?"

    Lin Zhen shook his head before he said, "Put the phone close to his ear."

    "Done," came the voice from the phone speaker.

    "Huang! Shu! Yi! Get your bloody ass out of the bed and eat something! If you''re gonna act dead like a pig, at least eat like a pig as well!"

    *Thud*

    The sound of something heavy falling on the ground could be heard from the phone and Hyson had to purse his lips to stop himself fromughing even more. These people around him were really something else. He could bet that the ''thing'' that fell heavily was certainly his Yi Ge. That made this situation even more hrious.

    "I didn''t know you''d follow me here as well, MOM!" came Huang Shuyi''s groggy but annoyed voice. Someone just ruined his sleep, how could he not be annoyed right now? "Zhenzhen, don''t you have anything better to do in life? Why are you always ying the role of a viin between me and my love?"

    "Because if I don''t y the viin, this love will kill you!" Lin Zhen shot back.

    Hyson actually couldn''t me Lin Zhen for doing this. Even he knew if Lin Zhen didn''t pay attention, Huang Shuyi might die in his sleep from hunger. Thatzy man would never prioritize eating over sleeping even if his life depended on it. That''s why Lin Zhen had to be the viin in the love story of Huang Shuyi with his bed.

    "Also, just because we have some free time, it doesn''t mean you should be tardy like this. Keep taking care of your health and maintain your weight properly. If I learned that your weight increased or decreased, see what I do with you!" Just like that Lin Zhen hung up the call.

    He rubbed his temples and groaned, "All of you are like kids. If I don''t pay attention, you all would die one day without anyone realizing it!"

    Hyson perched up his chin on the heel of his hand as he looked at Lin Zhen in amusement and said, "And you''re like the mother hen. Always making sure that your chicks eat well."

    Lin Zhen narrowed his eyes at Hyson but didn''t say anything. He walked over to the door of another room and knocked on it, "Xiao Wen, you better stop ying games ande out to eat now! You nocturnal animal! Is night not enough for you?"

    He put his ear against the door to hear for any movement and could clearly hear a silvery voice saying, "Sorry, my beautiful fans! I''ll y with you another time. My loving mom is calling me for breakfast now. Let''s take a break in our live stream. I know you all are reluctant to part with me. But just give me a while to cate my beautiful mother." After that, he heard some shuffling before the door opened and a pale face came before his eyes. It almost scared Lin Zhen that''s how scary the person before him looked right now. Waving his hand, he greeted Lin Zhen, "Zhen Ge, you look handsome and bright this morning."

    Lin Zhen clenched his fists when he saw those dark circles on his face. Poking his head he said, "Is this how you''re nning on dying? One is gonna die fromck of sleep and the other is gonna die from excessive sleep! You all are really something!"

    Hyson followed the movements of this mother hen around. Although their fans called Lin Zhen the gentlest person, they all knew what kind of a devil he was. There was no doubt that Lin Zhen was very gentle. He always cared for them like a mother since he was the oldest and also the leader of the group. But they all knew that aside from that gentleness, Lin Zhen had another persona. And it''d alwayse out when he was pissed off.

    And clearly, taking care of this bunch of kids sure pissed him off more often than not!

 Chapter 114 - Zany People

    Hyson had to say though, Lin Zhen was rarely wrong. The man might hide his devious self behind a sweet smile, but he had a keen gaze for people. He could literally read each of his group members like the back of his hand. In fact, over a month ago, Lin Zhen had actually stated that he felt like Pei Zi Hong was seeing someone.

    The rest of them didn''t take him seriously. And the result was? They all had to find about Pei Zi Hong''s dating news through news portals.

    That was one of the other reasons why Hyson found Lin Zhen scary but also admirable.

    While Fang Yiwen sat down beside Hyson, thetter couldn''t help asking, "Wen Ge, when did you change your hair color?"

    Fang Yiwen gave Hyson a look before picking a deep-fried dough stick, he leisurely bit into it before replying, "If I kept my signature silver hair for live streams, it''d give me away."

    "Wouldn''t you have more fun ying if your fans know it''s you?" inquired Hyson curiously.

    "That''d be no fun at all," retorted Fang Yiwen. "I want my viewers to watch me y for my skills. I''m not selling my face."

    "But I think your face value is very high," remarked Hyson.

    Fang Yiwen snorted, "Are you that oblivious?"

    "What do you mean?" questioned Hyson in confusion.

    "Between all five of us, you have the highest face value," said Fang Yiwen straightforwardly. "You have the face to topple the dynasties." Hyson gave him a re but it didn''t faze him at all. "You not only have the cleanest and purest image before the fans, but you also are known as Nation''s Adorable Little Brother."

    Lin Zhen chuckled as he agreed, "I saw that post as well."

    Hyson lookedpletely oblivious to what they were talking about and seeing how confused he looked, the other two weren''t even surprised. Even though Hyson had been in the entertainment industry for years, he had the least interest in keeping up with the gossips of this industry. All of his free time was spent acting spoiled whether it was around his mother or his best friend, it didn''t matter. He just had to act spoiled.

    "What does Nation''s Adorable Little Brother even mean?" asked Hyson as he put his chopsticks down.

    "It means that you are able to evoke every girl''s motherly nature. They all get the urge to pamper you. And ites naturally," told Fang Yiwen with amusement dancing in his sleep-deprived eyes. "They all want to pack you up and take you home before smothering you with love and care."

    Hyson felt slightly ufortable hearing that and suddenly shuddered, "I have enough people to pamper me."

    Fang Yiwen burst outughing at Hyson, "Xiao Fai, how can you be this cute? Are you really scared of women?"

    Hyson narrowed his eyes at Fang Yiwen for a long while in silence.

    Fang Yiwen already had a very paleplexion. So white that he mighte off as delicate. But since he had been staying cooped up in his room for days now, he looked even paler now. He hadn''t even been taking care of his meals or his sleep which really made him look like a vampire now! Especially with his two prominent canines which he liked to lick flirtatiously.

    Hyson sighed out at his condition before saying, "I''m not scared of women. I would just like to keep my distance from them."

    Actually, since Hyson had grown up seeing exceptional women around him, he was rather picky about the kind of femalepany he would like to keep. Whether it was his own mother, Raelle, or even Mu Chenyan, all these women were exceptional to him. With such females around him, how could he want just anyone in his life? That bar was set too high!

    "Xiao Fai, you are really like a little boy,"mented Lin Zhen with a shake of his head.

    "Zhen Ge, I''m only a little boy for my mum," retorted Hyson.

    Hyson himself never realized that since everyone in his group treated him like a little brother, he had be so ustomed andfortable to it that the spoilt nature that only came out before his mother or Raelle, had also been asionally shown around them as well. And in fact, they all considered Hyson to be like a little boy because of his pure mindset.

    Just like Raelle, he also didn''t realize that his antics made him appear adorable.

    "By the way," Fang Yiwen put down his cup of soymilk as he said. "Xiao Fai, give yourself a break."

    "Says the person who hasn''t slept in over 48 hours," Lin Zhen chimed in with a snicker.

    Fang Yiwen didn''t mind Lin Zhen''s words. He knew thetter was just concerned for him and that''s why he never minded any of Lin Zhen''s words.

    "That''s different, Zhen Ge," stressed Fang Yiwen. "I''m enjoying myself while ying games that''s why I lose track of time or anything else. Our little brother is different." Fang Yiwen lifted his hand to rub Hyson''s head as he went on, "This little guy loves to stress over things. He hasn''t been sleeping well because he is worried about the audition."

    Hyson was taken aback by his words, "Wen Ge, how do you know that? You didn''t even step out of your room."

    Fang Yiwen offered him a smile, "Our little brother, I don''t even need to keep an eye on you to know what''s up with you. When you''re worried about something, you try to hide it but in the process of hiding it, you end up making your mood very obvious."

    Hyson lowered his head and grumbled to himself unhappily before saying, "I just don''t want to fail this audition. Our future depends on it."

    Lin Zhen patted Hyson''s shoulder as he gave him a reassuring smile, "Xiao Fai, enjoy yourself. You don''t have to carry this heavy burden for all of us. You need to go to that audition with only one goal; To have fun!" Hyson looked at Lin Zhen as thetter went on, "So what if you failed? One must try all the dishes before deciding on his favorite. If you won''t try this audition how would you know whether you like it or not?"

    Hyson pursed his lips before saying, "I think I''m bound to meet all the zany people. And yet, I like all of these zany people around me."

    Obviously, Raelle was a part of those madcap people along with his group members. Each person was a weirdo and yet, they all had found a ce in Hyson''s life. He really felt blessed to have all of them in his life.

 Chapter 115 - You Have, I Donâ€™t

    The way a person dresses up, says a lot about the personality of that person.

    Shui Xian came to that conclusion after meeting Raelle. And he also learned that whether the world is willing to treat you well or not doesn''t matter. You should know how to pamper yourself.

    And he could clearly see how Raelle pampered herself. Since her beauty aesthetics were peculiar like her character, she liked to dress up morously just for the sake of pleasing her eyes. He actually thought he might get used to her style after a week but he found himselfughing at that thought. He couldn''t figure out her style.

    He could only say that her style screamed; Bold, confident, modern, talented, elegant, and yet sensuous.

    Today, she was wearing a white top with a dark floral skirt that only reached her thighs along with a pink mini leather jacket. Her hair was braided loosely that lied over her one shoulder. A handful of hair was left out of the braid from the front that she brushed aside from the side of her face with her delicate and fair fingers.

    She looked at Shui Xian and found his eyes glued on herself. "Is something wrong?" she inquired.

    "Something is missing," said Shui Xian as he stood up and walked over to her. He stood behind her and soon Raelle felt something foreign touching her skin. She looked down to find that he had ced her pendant around her neck. While putting the pendant around her, his fingers grazed the skin of her neck ever so lightly before he turned her around to face him. "This really suits you well."

    Raelle touched her pendant that was named, ''Dream of Change'' before she looked up at him. She didn''tment regarding her own pendant. She only held it between her fingers for a minute before leaving it as she said, "Shall we leave now?"

    Shui Xian hummed in reply and let her take her bag as they went downstairs together. Since the day Raelle had woken him up early for a morning run, Shui Xian had been waking up at the same time as her. Not because she asked him to but because he realized, in this way, they had plenty of time to spend together before going to work.

    And in this way, even their sleep schedule seemed to have linked together. Even though today was a weekend, they had still gone out for a run early in the morning. In just two days, he hade to love running in the morning for two reasons. One, he got enough time to spend with Raelle. Two, he got to meet that adorable Siberian Husky that always left him in a good mood.

    "Are you both going somewhere?" questioned Shui Koshing when he saw them dressed up for the day. "Are you going out to have some fun? Have lots of fun then!" He pointed at his son and went on, "Son, you better buy lots of things for my daughter-inw."

    "We are not going shopping," replied Shui Xian.

    Shui Koshing frowned, looking puzzled when Raelle informed him, "We are going to meet my best friend''s mother. I have to extend my thanks to her for the wedding gift she sent us."

    "Oh!" Shui Koshing had a look of enlightenment. "Why didn''t you remind me earlier? I would have asked the chef to prepare some homemade dishes to take with you."

    "B¨¤, we''ll buy something on the way," said Shui Xian.

    "How is that sincere enough?" retorted Shui Koshing. He called for a servant and immediately asked them to pack some homemade pickles and to bring some of his well-cherished sake as well.

    Shui Xian pulled Raelle and sat down beside his father to wait for the things he just asked the servants to pack. He looked at his wife before he felt like teasing her and voiced out, "B¨¤, talking about sincerity, wouldn''t it be more sincere if the gift is made by my wife?"

    Raelle stared at him nkly for a split second before saying, "Hubby, do you know where the disappointmentes from?" Shui Xian''s brow arched up ever-so-slightly as she concluded with, "From unrealistic expectations."

    "Oh?" responded Shui Xian and she nodded her head solemnly.

    "Your wife doesn''t know how to cook," she told him frankly. "In fact, I can hardly tell spices apart because I have never stepped a foot inside the kitchen in my entire life."

    "Really?" Shui Xian actually thought that she didn''t know how to cook but he didn''t think she was that estranged from not only kitchen stuff but also from the kitchen itself.

    "Yes," replied Raelle. "Opa says it''s a dangerous ce. I should not enter at any cost."

    "Dangerous?" repeated Shui Xian trying to think about how the kitchen could be a dangerous ce.

    "There is fire, I can get a burn," began Raelle in a systematic manner. "There are knives, I can get a cut. There are spices, they can get into my eyes and damage my nerves. There is oil, it can spill on the floor and make me slip and break my bones. There is also... Mmfp!"

    Before she could even finish, Shui Xian had already ced his hand over her lips saying, "Wife, I got it. I got a clear picture. No need to make it more vivid than it already is in my mind."

    Raelle listened to him and stopped.

    Seeing their interaction, Shui Koshing chuckled at them before shaking his head. "Son, Uncle Yu is a little overprotective about her. Anything that remotelyes close to danger had been kept out of her reach. You can''t me her for being clueless about cooking."

    Raelle nodded along with him as she said, "My meals had always been meticulously prepared by professional chefs or Yanyan."

    Shui Koshing gave Raelle a smile and said, "Elle, don''t you worry at all. Only one of you needs to know how to cook. So what if you can''t cook, your husband can. Isn''t that enough?"

    Raelle stared at Shui Xian whose body stiffened slightly at his father''s words. "You can?" she asked him.

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "I learned a little." Shui Xian thought she would demand him to make something for her but who knew she had her own thoughts all over again.

    Raelle gave him a thumbs-up as she said, "No wonder my grandfather said that you''re like the missing part that I need toplete myself." Shui Xian''s brows knitted up as she added, "Because you have the skills that I don''t have. Just like you have all the emotions that I don''t have."

 Chapter 116 - A Pink Rose

    Having no words to say to his wife was bing a part of Shui Xian''s daily life these days. He hade to terms with the fact that he couldn''tpete with his wife''s truthful ''insights.'' Her confidence could even make anyone believe in her lies if only she could lie.

    And it was also a fact that Raelle''s words would always find a way to sway the locks he had put on the door of his heart. He never thought anyone would be able to challenge his first love. No matter how bitter the ending of that love was, he still cherished the moment he had fallen in love for the very first time. He was a teenager. It was his first love. Everything about that was beautiful.

    But just as deep the love was, that''s how deep the scars were left. Maybe that''s why he closed himself off from the world. But who knew that Raelle would be able to not only challenge his feelings in such a short time, but she would also be able to make him rethink his whole belief in love.

    Shui Xian and Raelle had gotten on the road right after getting the gifts that Shui Koshing prepared for Mother Yue. As they drove towards Hyson''s house, Shui Xian suddenly thought of something and stopped the car at the side of the road.

    "We haven''t reached yet," said Raelle as she looked at their surroundings.

    "Come with me," he said vaguely as he alighted from the car.

    Raelle unblocked her seatbelt and opened the car door. Just as she was supposed to get off, Shui Xian''s beautiful hand appeared before her eyes. She looked up at his smiling eyes before taking his hand and following him.

    He walked towards a flower shop and stepped inside with his wife. The shop attendant greeted them with a big smile and even enthusiastically went to them, "Sir, are you looking for a bouquet for your girlfriend? Do you need a suggestion?"

    Raelle tilted her head towards Shui Xian and said, "I didn''t ask for flowers."

    "It''s not for you," said Shui Xian.

    Raelle didn''t ask for whom he was buying it. She quietly looked around while Shui Xian instructed the shop attendant to make him a special bouquet of flowers. Raelle also leisurely walked around the shop. She stopped before a pot of pink roses. She continued to watch it intently before her fingers brushed the petals of the rose.

    The shop attendant was giving Shui Xian his card back when she looked in Raelle''s direction and said to Shui Xian, "Sir, your girlfriend is beautiful."

    Shui Xian also turned his head around and momentarily paused as his breath hitched. From the ss windows, the sunlight was shining on one side of Raelle''s face. A few strands of her hair were obstructing the view of her face, making anyone itch to move that hair out of the way. And yet, it added another charm to her beauty. She had no expression on her face but the way her fingers caressed the petals of the roses gave off a gentle feeling.

    It was the gentleness that Shui Xian didn''t think she was capable of.

    Shui Xian felt something tightening in his chest and couldn''t help capturing this enchanting scene on his phone before he turned to the shop attendant to take the bouquet and said, "She isn''t my girlfriend. She is my wife."

    The shop attendant gasped softly in surprise and gave him a big smile saying, "You''re one lucky husband then."

    "I also think so," said Shui Xian.

    He strode over to Raelle''s side and offered his hand back to her, "Shall we?"

    Raelle nodded her head as she took his hand again and left the shop with him. She could actually wait inside the car for him but he had still taken her to the flower shop even though she did nothing there. However, Shui Xian didn''t think like her. He definitely got something very interesting from her visit to the flower shop.

    As he sat inside the car, he pulled a single pink rose and gave it to her.

    "I didn''t ask for a flower," she said.

    "Who said I was waiting for you to ask?" he retorted yfully and yet seriously.

    Raelle looked at the rose in her hand for a while before asking, "Why did you even give it to me?"

    "Because I felt like it," he answered.

    It took them about an hour to reach Hyson''s house. Anding to this residential area, Shui Xian was a little surprised. It wasn''t anything like the high society. The housing society was in an average condition and looked rather lively with how children yed on the roads and middle-aged aunties yed mahjong on the streets.

    "You can park your car around here," said Raelle. "We have to walk from here."

    Shui Xian immediately found a spot for parking before he alighted to take the gifts from the backseat. He ced the beautiful purples and bright reds[1] in the hands of Raelle before taking the rest.

    As Raelle and Shui Xian walked side by side on the congested streets, everyone''s eyes were on this eye-catching pair. They looked out of ce in this kind of ce. Not just because of how gorgeously they both were dressed, but also because of their beautiful appearances.

    "Hyson grew up here?" asked Shui Xian.

    "From the time I know him, he had been living here," replied Raelle. "Why?"

    Shui Xian hesitated before speaking his mind, "Actually, Hyson seemed like the son of an aristocrat family with his looks, temperament, manner, and how eloquent he is. That''s why I find it a bit inconceivable that he grew up in such an environment."

    "You haven''t met his mother yet," said Raelle. "After seeing her, you''ll get all the answers you need."

    From just that remark, Shui Xian was really intrigued about Mother Yue. They had juste close to Hyson''s house when they heard amotion. Usually, Raelle would never take interest in such things. But today...

    She just couldn''t help moving towards themotion because she could hear the most familiar voice. The voice she would never be able to mistake for anyone in this life!

    [1] ''beautiful purples and bright reds'': describing a brightly colored bouquet of flowers.

 Chapter 117 - Feeling Guilty

    Raelle didn''t walk over towards themotion because she thought that the voice sounded familiar, she walked over because she knew her Yanyan was over there. Just as a child is always familiar with the touch, voice, and even breath of his mother, Raelle was that familiar with Mu Chenyan. From the very first person who held her to the person who taught her how to walk or talk, it had always been Mu Chenyan.

    It''d be a shock if Raelle couldn''t even recognize her voice.

    And sure enough, as she weaved her way over, she found Mu Chenyan''s furious-looking face as she was pulling a man''s hair right in the middle of the street!

    "Oh, that''s a surprise!" Raelle heard Shui Xian''s surprised voice but didn''t say anything to him as she was focused on the scene before her eyes.

    So the story went like this...

    Earlier, Mu Chenyan and Mother Yue had gone grocery shopping. While they wereing back, Mu Chenyan ended up seeing a man trying to harass a teenage girl. When the girl tried to push him away, he sneakily tried to take a photo of a young girl''s private parts from under her dress. It infuriated her to the point that she dropped the shopping bags and came over and held that man''s hand before twisting it backward.

    *Crunch*

    One could literally hear the sound of bones breaking. All five of his fingers were bent backward as he roared in pain. His phone dropped on the ground and Mu Chenyan kicked it over to Mother Yue''s side who picked it up and checked the photo gallery. Obviously, it wasn''t this old pervert''s first time. Even she felt her blood boiling expeditiously.

    She took a turnip from her grocery bag and hit that man''s head repeatedly. Mu Chenyan found it quite funny but she really wasn''t in the mood tough right now.

    "You crazy woman! Let me go!"

    Hearing the man''s shouts, Mu Chenyan''s face darkened even more, "Let you go? I don''t feel like doing it, bloody pervert!"

    Just like that, a crowd gathered as they heard Mu Chenyan voicing out what this old pervert did, plenty of neighborhood aunties became furious. Mu Chenyan gave him a knee kick that made his body convulse. She grabbed his hair and pulled it with as much as force she could. It was to the point that the man felt like his scalp was gonna be torn open by her. He lost a good patch of his hair.

    But Mu Chenyan didn''t care about his angry screams, pleading cries, painful roars. It never worked on her. "Don''t just stand there, call the police!"

    "You! Let me go! You don''t know what I am capable of!" The man tried to threaten her.

    Mu Chenyan let him go as she feigned the fear and even trembled saying, "Oh my! I''m so scared!" Her face went back to her fiery passion in a split second as she took a step back tounch a beautiful butterfly kick. As soon as her feet made contact with that man''s face, blood oozed out of his mouth. He definitely broke a few teeth.

    Mu Chenyan stretched her neck as shended perfectly and kicked the back of the knee joints to make the man kneel down. After she was done, she gripped his nape in a vice-like grip and said with authority, "Apologize! Right now!"

    The man spat out a mouthful of blood before ring at Mu Chenyan hatefully, "You''ll regret it! You really don''t know who I am."

    "You also don''t know what kind of a monster I am," retorted Mu Chenyan.

    All of the shadow guards that followed Raelle around came to the scene and circled around Mu Chenyan as the leader asked, "Madam, you can leave it to us."

    Mu Chenyan cracked her knuckles and stepped back before pointed with her finger. Getting the hint, two of the bodyguards held the man down and made his forehead bang against the ground right before the young girl who had been scared silly because of this man''s perverted acts.

    But now that someone stood up for her, she gathered the courage and smashed her bag onto that man''s head with all her strength. She did it repeatedly until she got tired and also until the police came to the scene.

    Mu Chenyan took the phone from Mother Yue''s hand and tossed it over to the bodyguards saying, "Deal with it."

    "Yes, Madam!"

    Since Raelle''s bodyguards were handpicked by Mu Chenyan herself, all of these people revered her. During their selections, they had to fight with Mu Chenyan. And not even one of them could make her submit.

    After dealing with that, Mu Chenyan''s expressions took a drastic turn as she wrapped her arm around Mother Yue''s shoulder andughed like a hooligan as she said, "You don''t worry gorgeous! I''m always here to protect you!"

    Mother Yue smacked her head and gave her a hard stare which Mu Chenyanughed at while scratching the back of her head foolishly. To be honest, if Shui Xian hadn''t seen everything with his own eyes he would have never suspected that behind that beautifully foolish smile, what exactly lied.

    "Now that made me super hungry! Let''s cook a feast today!" announced Mu chenyan and suddenly stopped. "Wait! If those bodyguards are here..." She hurriedly looked up and her eyes wandered around until they focused on Raelle''s figure standing not far from her.

    As always, there was no expression on Raelle''s face but Mu Chenyan suddenly felt guilty. She always tried to hide that side of hers from Raelle. It wasn''t that Raelle wasn''t familiar with all her famous endeavors from her younger years but it was indeed Raelle''s first time watching this side of Mu Chenyan with her own eyes.

    She rushed up to Raelle''s side with opened arms saying, "My Elle!"

    Raelle stepped aside before Mu Chenyan could even hug her and extended the bouquet of flowers to Mother Yue. "This is for you."

    Mother Yue looked at the beautiful flowers and then looked at Raelle in shock before pointing at her as if asking, ''Is it really for me?''

    Raelle turned her eyes to Shui Xian, "Hubby, you bought it for Hyson''s mom?"

    "Yes," replied Shui Xian in a daze.

    "See?" Raelle held up the bouquet again. "It''s definitely for you."

    Mother Yue gave her a sweet smile before she lifted her hand to caress Raelle''s face lovingly and then took the flowers and made a gesture with a hand.

    After understanding her meaning, Raelle turned to Shui Xian, "She said ''thank you.'' And she is also asking us toe home with her."

 Chapter 118 - No Husband

    Shui Xian had noticed the way Raellemunicated with Mother Yue, but he didn''t dare show anything on his face. And neither did he question anything regarding that. Although a question did pop up in his mind, he didn''t voice it.

    While Mother Yue unlocked the door of the house and invited them inside, Shui Xian ced the gifts on a table saying, "These are some presents my father sent for you."

    Mother Yue raised her brows at him and only now looked at him clearly. For a minute, she continued to stare at his face intently and her daze was only broken when Raelle introduced him, "He is my husband, Shui Xian. And she is Hyson''s gorgeous mother, Yue."

    "It''s really nice to meet you," said Shui Xian with a polite smile on his face.

    And seeing that smile on his face, Mother Yue''s eyes widened ever so slightly in surprise which hid almost instantly before she hurriedly smiled back at him and nodded as if greeting him back. She looked at Raelle and through the hand signs conveyed her words, ''There was no need for so many things.''

    Raelle looked at the gifts they brought and said, "You should say it to B¨¤. He insisted that we take something. But don''t worry, we didn''t buy any of that. All of this is homemade."

    "Also, it''s not good to go empty-handed to pay respects to the elders," Shui Xian added as well.

    Mu Chenyan bumped her shoulder with Mother Yue as she proudly said, "See? Isn''t our family''s son handsome and perfect?"

    Mother Yue shook her head at Mu Chenyan but she did agree with her words as well. Just one look was enough to leave a good impression on her. She asked the newlyweds to take a seat in the living room while she took the grocery bags to the kitchen. Mu Chenyan had already delivered the bags she was carrying to the kitchen and ran back to see her Raelle.

    "My baby girl, how are you?" she asked while grinning mildly at Raelle. Seeing the single rose in her hand, she asked, "Did you bring this one for me? Even though you gave Yueyue a bouquet, I''m happy with just one flower from you."

    Raelle held her rose tightly as she said, "It''s not for you."

    "Huh?" Mu Chenyan pouted at her, "Why not?"

    "My husband gave it to me. So, it''s mine. I''m protective about what''s mine," replied Raelle with a straight face. "Go and ask for a rose from your husband."

    Mu Chenyan crossed her arms over her chest as she said, "But I don''t have a husband!"

    "Exactly," was Raelle''s response that left Mu Chenyan speechless. Her baby girl just taunted her?

    "It seems like you stopped caring about me after getting married," said Mu Chenyan in an aggrieved manner.

    "Why should I care about a liar?" retorted Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan stared at her face. "Liar? What did I lie about? I have never lied to you about anything. That fight outside was out of my control. I grew up in Army Barracks, my sense of justice tends to rage asionally."

    "Whoever you beat is none of my concern," said Raelle. "If you even murder someone, I''d know you have a genuine reason to do so. I''ll never question you!" Mu Chenyan was touched by those words but instantly felt cold the next second when she added, "But I don''t like lies." Saying that Raelle held Mu Chenyan''s hand that still had a bandaid on it. "I thought you only wanted to take a break and stay with Yue. But it seems you''re really hiding here. Because no one ever told me you got injured."

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips before she hurriedly exined, "Elle, it''s not what you think. I wasn''t lying. I was gonna tell you about this but after I get better. I didn''t want to worry anyone because of these small scratches. It''s no big deal at all."

    "A lie is a lie," said Raelle. "You can never justify it."

    Mother Yue came back with a tray of snacks and tea. She ced it down on the coffee table and held Raelle''s hand as she led her to the fabric sofa and made her sit. She looked at Shui Xian and gestured for him to sit down already as well.

    Only after Raelle sat down, did Mother Yue told Raelle, ''She didn''t lie. She was avoiding talking to you because she didn''t have the courage to lie to you. So, don''t me her. She might start crying.''

    Raelle looked at Mu Chenyan''s face and said, "Don''t open the gate of your endless tears! I really don''t like it."

    Mu Chenyan made a face at her before rubbing her head and said, "I won''t cry as long as you''re around." After getting over her sadness instantly, Mu Chenyan grinned at Shui Xian and said, "Son-inw, you better not mention what you saw to Elder Xiang."

    Although she had a smile on her face, Raelle still caught on to her words as she asked, "Did you just threaten my husband?"

    Mu Chenyan tapped Mother Yue''s shoulder and dragged her saying, "Yue, let''s prepare something for lunch. It''s gettingte."

    Mother Yue shook her hands off before saying to Raelle to word out her message to Shui Xian that Raelle obediently did, "She is saying, treat this ce like your home and befortable. Enjoy the snacks while we prepare the meal."

    "Thank you!" said Shui Xian as he smiled at her softly.

    As bothdies ran off to the kitchen, Raelle and Shui Xian were left alone in the living room. Raellefortably picked up a cookie and munched on it while Shui Xian was still lost in thought. He finally asked, "Is your Yanyan always this rough?"

    Raelle shook her head, "Nope. She has only shown me her gentle, cautious, and loving side."

    "So, are you surprised to see her like this?" he questioned.

    Raelle shook her head again, "I''ve heard better stories about her intense days."

    Shui Xian''s brows jumped up and he slid up to her side and asked curiously, "What kind of stories? I''m intrigued now."

 Chapter 119 - A Familiar Cage

    In all honesty, Shui Xian had been shocked to see that ''new'' side of Mu Chenyan to put it mildly. He wasn''t familiar with Mu Chenyan to the extent to figure her outpletely. But from his initial impression of hers, he assumed she was a refined, elegant, and typical woman from an affluent family.

    But now, his whole world view was crashed almost instantly. Now, he got to see that Mu Chenyan was a lot more than what he saw and she was anything but a ''typical'' richdy. However, he really wanted to smack himself to even assume for a minute that anyone associated with his wife would turn out to be ''normal''.

    His respect for Mu Chenyan suddenly skyrocketed as well, and that''s why he was really curious to know about the stories that Raelle mentioned.

    Raelle stared into his eyes and said, "Opa says Yanyan was reckless and equally fearless." Shui Xian''s brows raised in interest as she went on, "You already heard it. She grew up in the barracks. She grew up between soldiers. From a young age, she''d follow the soldiers in their training. Rather than her brain, she liked to talk with her fists. And that intense atmosphere of life and death around her also invoked a strange obsession with death as well."

    "Huh? Death?" questioned Shui Xian.

    Raelle nodded her head, "Yes, death! She always found ways to challenge death. People run from death, she ran towards it." While Shui Xian was lost in his thoughts, she added, "Once she jumped from the fourth floor of a building because of a bet."

    "How many bones did she broke?"

    "None," replied Raelle. "Soldiers have worse training. Those four floors were way too easy for her. At least, that''s what grandfather says."

    Shui Xian took a deep breath as he asked, "Then what changedter on?"

    "One can only court death as long as one doesn''t have a weakness," said Raelle. "You''re only fearless when you don''t fear to lose anything or anyone." She picked up a cup of tea and sipped on itnguidly before adding, "Now, Yanyan has a weakness."

    Shui Xian''s lips curved up, "I believe it''s you."

    Raelle nodded her head, "Since the time I came into her life, she has never done anything reckless again."

    Shui Xian was impressed to hear that. One needed quite some dedication to change their ways in life. And the strongest factor in someone''s change is often ''love''. He could now clearly see the intensity of Mu Chenyan''s love and dedication towards Raelle. She not only dedicated herself to Raelle''s wellbeing, she even altered her whole personality just for Raelle. That definitely wasn''t an easy task.

    He absentmindedly picked up a cookie to taste and asked, "Wife, if she grew up in the barracks, why didn''t she join the army?"

    "Not everyone is influenced positively by the environment they grow up in," replied Raelle. "Your family has been in business for three generations, why did you dream of bing a musician instead?" Shui Xian pressed his lips together since he had no answer for that while Raelle continued, "Since she was way too familiar with the army, she didn''t want to be a part of it. She''d rather keep her unrestrained self. Even if she sought death, that had to be on her own conditions! Not because of responsibility."

    "We all feel restrictions in the environment we are most familiar with," remarked Shui Xian in understanding. He understood it quite well actually. "We all seek freedom but oftentimes, the so-called freedom is just our escape from the ce we are most familiar with."

    Raelle nodded her head, "That''s true. But every caged bird alwayses back home." Shui Xian stared at her as she went on, "When you''ve be ustomed to that cage you''re familiar with, even after you gain the freedom, one day you''ll want toe back to that cage. Because sometimes, the world of freedom can''t give you the sense of belongingness that you seek. Only that cage provides you that."

    Shui Xian hated to admit it but she was right. Even after he left home to find his freedom, he had toe back home to find a way to breathe again. The world is a cruel ce. Freedomes at the expense of one''s own self. He had gone back home because that was the only ce he knew he would be needed. No matter how cruel the world would be, the home would always be warm and weing.

    "Xian, is there something special you''d like to eat?" asked Mu Chenyan as she came back from the kitchen. "We don''t know your preferences after all. So, feel free to let us know what you like."

    "I''m not that picky about food," replied Shui Xian as he stood up.

    "Aiyo, stay seated!" said Mu Chenyan. "And don''t feel shy. Just let me know what you like." She looked at Raelle and asked, "Elle darling, do you know what your husband likes?"

    "Why would I know what he likes?" Raelle retorted.

    "Because as a wife, you should know what your husband likes to eat," Mu Chenyan patiently told her.

    "I can tell you what he doesn''t like," said Raelle. "He never touches eggs on the breakfast table. He picked out spinach from his food in the restaurant. He left his noodles when he found the spices were not to his taste. He always adds extra sugar to his coffee."

    Shui Xian stared at her intently with his lips parted slightly. He watched her list out every single thing she had noticed in the past week. Everything was detailed as if she had known him for years.

    Mu Chenyan patted Raelle''s head, "I knew it. My Elle is awesome!" Saying that she turned around to leave again with a big smile stered on her face. She was exhrated to see that Raelle had actually been paying attention to her husband''s likes and dislikes.

    Shui Xian ced his arm over her shoulder and pulled her close as he said, "Should I feel special that you''ve been paying such close attention to me? Or this special treatment is for everyone?"

    Raelle stared into his eyes and said, "I wouldn''t say it''s exclusive but this special treatment isn''t just for anyone either."

    Shui Xian nodded his head with a small smile ying on his lips before he kissed her temple and said, "I actually feel special even if I''m not the exclusive one."

 Chapter 120 - Candy & Lemons

    Inside the kitchen, Mu Chenyan couldn''t stop gushing over Raelle and Xian. While Mother Yue was used to hearing about Raelle, it was new for her to hear about Shui Xian as well. However, she had a sweet smile gracing her face as she continued to listen to Mu Chenyan. She didn''t mind hearing this chatter at all. She found it quite adorable and amusing as well.

    "Didn''t I tell you," said Mu Chenyan. "We chose the perfect partner for our Elle. Xian is not only handsome, mature, eloquent, sessful, but also sensible! His best trait is, he isn''t impulsive. Yue, what do you think about him?"

    Mother Yue put down the kitchen knife and looked at her before telling her, ''I agree. He really is a good partner for Elle. They surprisingly match each other well.''

    "I know," Mu Chenyan let out a dreamy sigh. "I wish them both all the happiness. Only seeing them happy will make me feel happy now."

    ''Get a life!'' was Mother Yue''s response to her.

    "Why do I feel like today I''m getting emotionally attacked over and over again?" questioned Mu Chenyan to no one in particr. She was merely saying her own thoughts out loud.

    Mother Yue smacked the back of her head before saying, ''Help me out or don''t be a hindrance to me. The one who isn''t helping can leave my kitchen.''

    "Of course, I''m gonna help you," said Mu Chenyan. "My son-inw is finally gonna taste the magic of my hands. I''ll make him addicted to this taste."

    Mother Yue shook her head at her before saying, ''He should be addicted to Raelle, not to your food!''

    Mu Chenyan grinned mischievously, "Let''s make it clear, Yue! Our Elle is already addicting enough. Even if her words are painful, her words tend to grow on people. It''s just like tasting whiskey for the very first time and realizing that it''s bitter and it burns your throat, makes you feel unpleasant! After the very first hangover, we all promised not to try it again. We didn''t want to go through the same experience of bitterness again. But who is the person who actually stuck to that promise? We all eventually went back to try the same whiskey all over again. And now, the vor grew on us. Now, it''s ourfort drink." She patted Mother Yue''s shoulder as she concluded, "You don''t have to like the bitterness, but sometimes it''s good to ept it. Life is not all about sugar and spice, some sourness and bitterness are also a part of it. If life can throw you candy, don''t forget, it can pass on the lemons as well."

    Mother Yue silently stared into her eyes for a moment longer before saying, ''Only someone with your thinking could actually raise a girl like her.''

    She wasn''t even surprised to hear this philosophy from Mu Chenyan. But to be honest, when she first got acquainted with Mu Chenyan, thetter wasn''t this deep. However, it must be that Raelle grew on her instead. Usually, it''s the elders having an influence on the kids but in her case, Raelle had a big influence on her. It wasn''t exactly a bad thing though.

    Mu Chenyan offered her a smile, "Are you jealous, Yue?"

    Mother Yue frowned at her, ''Why would I be?"

    Mu Chenyan grinned at her, "At first, I only had a daughter. Now, I also have a son. You should be envious of me."

    Mother Yue chuckled silently at her childishness and didn''t even bother saying anything as she went back to cutting the vegetables.

    Meanwhile, in the living room, Shui Xian''s eyes were wandering around curiously. The house wasn''t big. It was like an average family house and from one nce, one could say it was old as well. However, it was immactely decorated. The interior wasn''t shy but rather cozy. It felt homey andfortable.

    Unlike his own house which often felt cold and deserted even though there were so many servants around. But in this house, even though there weren''t many people, it felt like home. It had its own warmth. A warmth that was enough to seep right into his heart through every single pore in his body.

    And did he mention that he felt like this house was alive?

    It was alive with not only colors that painted the walls but it was also alive because of the memories that hung on those painted walls. The living room wall should have been named ''The Appreciation wall''. That''s what Shui Xian felt like seeing Hyson''s photos all around.

    From his childhood to adulthood, all of his memories were hung around. And in most of those photos, Hyson had a certificate in his hand. It was obvious that he had his own achievements. Even though he didn''t excel in his studies as Raelle did, he still had his own merits. He was athletic and had won many awards in basketball and ser. And then there were also pianopetitions.

    Seeing how intently he looked at those photos, Raelle told him, "Yue likes to capture every special moment in Hyson''s life and hang it up here. It''s almost like a trip down memoryne."

    Shui Xian pointed at a photo that had caught his eyes and pointed at it, "That''s you." He looked at her as he added, "Right?"

    Raelle looked at the photo. Indeed, it was her and Hyson but it was back when they were only nine. She nodded her head as she replied, "That''s the day, I met Hyson for the very first time. Yue thought it was destined for us to meet. So, she took a photo of us together tomemorate that first meeting."

    Shui Xian''s lips curved up but his eyes didn''t leave the little girl in the photo. This was his first time seeing something from her childhood and it felt strange. The girl in the photo was just as unfamiliar to him as she was familiar to him. Why? Because the nk look in her eyes was exactly the same. It didn''t change in all those years. It was as if that emptiness within her heart was permanently carved within her soul. And she had carried that emptiness till now.

 Chapter 121 - Sense Of Shame

    Suddenly, the main door was unlocked and someone stepped inside humming a tune happily. But as soon as that neer''s eyes fell on Shui Xian and Raelle, he paused.

    "You!"

    Raelle gave Hyson ''the neer'' a not very pleased look before she looked away as if she didn''t see him at all. Hyson felt like puking blood! This was his house and she just ignored him! That''s so like her!

    However, before his top could blow up from anger, he bit his own tongue. Raelle''s words shed through his mind. She had told him to inform his mother that she''d be visiting over the weekend. And he totally forgot about it!

    "Hi, Yue Fai!" Shui Xian greeted Hyson with a pleasant smile.

    Hyson took off his headphones and smiled back at him before walking up to Shui Xian. He took the initiative to give a brotherly hug to Shui Xian saying, "Xian Ge, I feel like I''m dreaming, seeing you in my humble abode. It''s like my small house has lit up with your presence."

    "Hyson," Raelle called out. "Do you have a chestnut?"

    Hyson dug into his pocket and rummaged out a pack of roasted chestnuts. He passed it to her enthusiastically. Raelle took it and asked Shui Xian, "Do you like roasted chestnuts?"

    "I do," replied Shui Xian.

    Raelle nodded and gave that pack of roasted chestnuts to her husband saying, "Enjoy!"

    Hyson''s face twitched at the sight of this scene ying out right before him. She knew he loved roasted chestnuts, yet she robbed him in broad daylight! Evil, chicken nugget!

    Shui Xian frowned at the pack of roasted chestnuts in confusion. That seemed too random to him because he didn''t know what his wife was thinking but Hyson knew it. She just wanted to snatch his roasted chestnuts. And indeed, Raelle really had no other purpose for such a silly act. It was simply done to annoy Hyson because she knew just how much he loved roasted chestnuts.

    "You didn''t tell Yue that I''d being to see her," stated Raelle making Hyson''s conjecture get stronger.

    "I had so much to do," said Hyson. "It slipped my mind. It wasn''t intentional." He sat down beside her, "When did youe?"

    "Just a while ago," replied Raelle calmly.

    Hyson extended his hand to take a cookie from the te when Raelle smacked on the back of his hand saying, "Yue brought this for me. Who allowed you to touch it?"

    Hyson gaped at her, "This is my house! My mother baked the cookies! Why can''t I taste it?"

    "Because I said so," was Raelle''s in response that was enough to shut Hyson up.

    He red at her before baring his teeth at her and even made a gesture of taking a bite but in the end, he huffed and turned his face away from her. He faced Shui Xian and almost instantly a smile appeared on his face.

    "Xian Ge, I heard you used my gift very well. Did you like it?"

    Shui Xian ended up coughing at that as he stared at Hyson in silence. Thetter was still grinning yfully.

    "Hyson, where is your sense of shame?" questioned Raelle. But right after, she answered herself, "Oh, it must be on a leave of absence like always." Hyson gritted his teeth as he faced her again with a raised brow. "Or maybe, your sense of shame ran away after seeing how shameless you are."

    Shui Xian coughed again but this time to hide hisughter.

    Hyson smiled at her, "Ellie, where is your sense of humor?" He wiggled his brows, "Maybe it went on a trip? Or maybe, it got tripped after seeing how trippy you are."

    Shui Xian was amused seeing this pair of friends.

    "I thought I heard a familiar voice," came Mu Chenyan''s voice and Mother Yue also followed her out to check.

    Seeing her son, she asked, ''What are you doing home?''

    Hyson ran over to hug her, "Mum, I missed you."

    Mother Yue facepalmed herself. Anything could change except for her son''s dialogue. Every single time, he always had the same thing to say, ''I missed you!'' The idiot even ran back from Country G because of the same thing.

    She rubbed his head before saying, ''Are you trying to annoy our guest?''

    "Who? Me?" Hyson yed the innocence card. "Mum, how can I annoy Xian Ge? I admire him. Well, as for annoying my Ellie, that''s my right. She is not a guest anyway."

    Mother Yue, ruffled his hair and messed up his hairstyle making him groan.

    "Mum, it took me half an hour to set my hair like this!"

    "Fai, why didn''t you inform us that Elle wasing over on the weekend?"

    Hysonughed awkwardly at Mu Chenyan, "Yanyan, that''s because I have a short-term memory loss. Whenever my Ellie says something, I tend to forget it easily." Both Mother Yue and Mu Chenyan raised their brows at him as he went on, "If I didn''t have this special ability, how could we have stayed friends with her bitter personality?"

    Thisment earned him a pinch on his cheek from his mother.

    ''That''s not nice!''

    Hyson smiled at his mom, "She doesn''t mind though." He took a pause and added, "Besides, she said she''lle over on the weekend. She didn''t specify the day whether it''d be Saturday or Sunday. I came home to tell you that you should be prepared for her unannounced visit, how would I know she''d be one step ahead of me?"

    Shui Xian was left watching while Hyson was dragged by the twodies for forgetting that Raelle wasing over. It wasn''t every day that Raelle would take the initiative to visit someone and yet, this jerk forgot to inform such an important thing. He needed a lesson for this mistake!

    Shui Xian felt both envious and happy to see Hyson''s rtionship with his mother and the woman who raised his wife like a mother. It made him miss his own mother. Or maybe it made him remember that he never had such a rtionship with his mother.

 Chapter 122 - Belle & Tinkerbell?

    Hyson was literally dragged to the kitchen but not like normal people. His cheeks were being pulled from each side. For some reason, thesedies love to pinch his cheeks as if he was a small kid. He epts that it was fun to pull his cheeks when he was a little kid even he had the urge to bite his own mochi cheeks but now it was not the same thing!

    He was not only a grown-up, but even his mochi cheeks weren''t as sulent as before. He set his foot down as he shouted, "Ladies, stop badgering me already!"

    Both Mother Yue and Mu Chenyan shared a look before they seriously pulled his cheek making him scream in pain this time.

    "I''m an idol with millions of fans, how can you both treat me like this?! Hahaha! Stop it! Please, stop tickling me!" Neither Mother Yue nor Mu Chenyan listened to his protests as they continued to attack his weak point. Hyson''s eyes brimmed with tears fromughing as he pleaded, "I beg you! Spare me already!"

    Finally, he was set free and he ran away from them. Well, not that he could run far. He was still held inside the open kitchen but he continued to put some distance between himself and these devildies who were up to no good whenever they were together.

    "Yanyan, this is all your fault!" he tossed the me around as he pointed at Mu Chenyan. "My adorable mum always acts out of her character whenever you''re around."

    Mu Chenyan gave him a cheeky smile, "You mean, I bring out Yue''s fun side? I take thatpliment as an honor! Thank you!"

    Hyson pouted and silently stood in a corner when his mother told him, ''Stop pouting. Come here and help us in serving all the food.''

    Hyson looked at the rows of dishes before him. What was the difference between him informing his mother of Raelle''s visit and not informing her? The number of dishes was still the same! Then why did he suffer all that cheek pulling?

    "Am I a server now? Why should I serve all of this?" he retorted unhappily.

    ''Because you''re not helpful in the kitchen in any other way,'' said Mother Yue.

    Mu Chenyan nodded, "Exactly! You''re just as useless in the kitchen as your best friend."

    Hyson puffed up his chest saying, "I''m way better than her. At least, I can tell the difference between the radish and the turnip!"

    Mu Chenyan took his pointing finger and changed the direction of it as she told him, "Darling, that''s the radish and that one is the turnip."

    Hyson''s lips parted but not an ounce of embarrassment could be seen on his face. He just exhaled a breath without saying anything. He took the te of scallion pancakes and set it on the dining table. He came back to take the rest of the food. He opened the cover of the bowl to see what was inside and instantly closed it.

    Seeing that beef and broli, he felt displeased.

    "Mum, you know I don''t eat broli," he said.

    ''Who asked for your opinion today?'' was the response he received from his mother. ''Today is not about you, son. Today is about Raelle and her husband.''

    Hyson gaped at his mother who always gave him what he wanted. She never denied him of anything. Since he was never unreasonable with his wishes, she would always give in to him. Besides, he rarely showed his displeasure about things because of how he spent his childhood. But whenever Raelle was around, her wishes will always be above her! The worst part of it was, that girl didn''t even have any wishes!

    While he was staring at her, Mu Chenyan ced a bowl into his hands and ruffles his hair yfully, "Silly Fai, this is for you. Stop pouting now."

    Hyson looked at the bowl of Honey Walnut shrimps and almost drooled at the sight. His eyes sparkled as he let that delicious and enticing aroma ruffle his senses. Ah, it smelled so good! He was instantly appeased just like a kid who got his candy after crying.

    He ced it on the dining table and even took note to ce it right in front of his seat before he skipped his way back inside the kitchen and kissed both thedies saying, "You bothdies can do wonders inside the kitchen."

    "Now, buttering us up won''t work," said Mu Chenyan and Mother Yue nodded to show her agreement.

    Hyson grinned at them, "I''m not buttering you guys up. I''m serious. I love you both very much." He slid between them and like a puppy asked for some love. "Now, give me some love. Give me a kiss." Both Mu Chenyan and Mother Yue gave him an amused look and he added, "Don''t just stand there. Aren''t I the most adorable kid around here? This kid needs attention!"

    "Most adorable kid?" repeated Mu Chenyan.

    ''Our Elle is quite cute though,'' Mother Yue also added.

    Hyson gave them both a look, "Why are youdies doing this? What''s with this bad choice of yours?" They both red at him and he grinned, "I mean, see it in this way, our Ellie is like ''Belle'' from the ''Beauty and the Beast.'' She always needs books to apany her. How boring is that? That''s not cute. That''s in boring." He put one hand around Mu Chenyan''s shoulders and the other was draped around his own mother as he went on, "While I am like ''Tinkerbell'', I flutter around with a huge smile on my face spreading happiness. All I ask in return is attention and love otherwise I can die! See how tragic my fate is without your love? While our Ellie is just in tragedy for those who mess with her."

    Mother Yue and Mu Chenyan knocked on his head from each side before kissing each of his cheeks.

    "You always know how to get attention," said Mu Chenyan.

    "That''s what I''m good at," replied Hyson. "It is my most favorite charm."

    After getting his well-deserved kisses, he was feeling jubnt.

    ''Call Raelle and Xian for the lunch,'' said Mother Yue and he nodded his head.

    Mu Chenyanughed beside her and said, "Make sure to call her Belle.''"

    Hyson looked back at Mu Chenyan, "Let''s improvise, in her case, calling her ''Belle'' or the ''Beast'' won''t make the difference since she is the beauty and the beast all in one package."

    "You!" Mu Chenyan red at him as he ran off with a peal of loudughter that echoed throughout the house. Mu Chenyan shook her head and looked at Mother Yue saying, ''Your son is really something.''

 Chapter 123 - Useful & Useless

    Just as Hyson walked out of the kitchen to call Raelle, his demeanorpletely changed. He could act like a spoiled kid before thedies but he couldn''t do the same before Shui Xian. After all, he didn''t want Shui Xian to think that he was childish which he wasn''t. He was a mature guy who just let his carefree self out before the people he feltfortable with.

    And needless to say, he felt mostfortable around thedies who were ready to smother him with love. He could act like a jerk before Raelle as well but he couldn''t do it before Shui Xian. Not just yet. He wanted to keep his image for just a while longer!

    But he also knew he won''t be able to keep it for long. Eventually, Shui Xian woulde to see this spoiled side of his. With a somber look, he came to the lounge and found Raelle and Shui Xian sitting together. They seemed to be engrossed in talking in low voices.

    Feeling like pulling up a prank, Hyson wanted to sneak up on them but when he came near and heard the content of their discussion, his face turned ck. There were no lovey-dovey words being discussed between this pair of newlyweds. Instead, they were talking about somerge-scale auction with thend auction and asset bundles and whatnot.

    Hyson didn''t understand most of it and he didn''t wish to understand either as he humphed. Both Raelle and Shui Xian looked at him as he said, "Are you both at a business meeting?"

    "No," replied Raelle.

    "Do you remember what''s your rtionship with him is?" Hyson further asked.

    "He is my husband," said Raelle without missing a beat.

    "If you know that then why are you discussing the economy with him?"

    "What else am I supposed to discuss with him?" questioned Raelle nkly.

    "Maybe you can discuss how many kids you''re going to have. Or when you''re going to have kids. Or you can even n a day-out! You can go out shopping? You can go out for dinner together? Or maybe you can just watch a movie together. But of all the things, you both are talking about the bloody economy?" Hyson was gritting his teeth. He stared at Shui Xian, "I expected this from her since she is a special case. Why are you going along with her?"

    Shui Xian pursed his lips before saying honestly, "It''s actually fun talking to her. No matter what''s the topic." Hyson was left blinking at him in disbelief as he continued, "Besides, I didn''t know my wife had such extensive knowledge on domestic investments."

    "I''m really wasting my time with you both," huffed Hyson. "Anyways, mum is calling you for lunch. Wash your hands ande to eat something."

    Raelle and Shui Xian did as they were told. They both went to wash their hands and Shui Xian could see that Raelle was thinking about something. She seemed to be concentrated.

    Hyson had already upied his seat at the dining table when Raelle and Shui Xian came to join them. Looking at the whole feast before his eyes, Shui Xian looked at the twodies who were busy in the kitchen even now and said, "You really didn''t have to prepare so much."

    "It''s no big deal," Mu Chenyan waved her hand offhandedly and Mother Yue also gave him a pleasant smile.

    "Now, I feel embarrassed," said Shui Xian. "If I knew you''d cook so much, I''d have helped you with something."

    Mother Yue made a hand sign that he couldn''t understand and looked at Mu Chenyan who interpreted for him, "Yue is asking, do you know how to cook?"

    Before Shui Xian could answer, Raelle answered for him, "He does. My Hubby knows how to cook."

    "Oh, impressive!"plimented Mu Chenyan and then after seeing Mother Yue''s response she burst outughing. Shui Xian was confused to see herughing and she took a pause to tell him, "Yue said, it''s good someone is useful around here."

    "Mum, are you calling me and my Ellie useless?" Hyson''s voice rang out. Seeing how his mother shrugged her shoulders, he sighed out, "It''s alright. That''s also a talent only a few possess."

    Both Mu Chenyan and Mother Yue shook their heads at him while they asked Shui Xian to just sit down. Mu Chenyan even added, "Today, you''re our guest, son-inw. Allow us to blow your mind with our skills. When wee to your ce as a guest, we''ll definitely let you, show-off."

    Shui Xian smiled at her politely and took a seat beside Raelle. They waited for Mu Chenyan and Mother Yue to join them before they started to eat. Habitually, Mu Chenyan had prepared a bowl of food for Raelle but before she could ce it before her, she saw how Shui Xian had attentively collected different dishes before Raelle.

    Seeing them like this, Mu Chenyan felt strange in her heart. It had always been her who did something like this for Raelle. It seemed insignificant but she had done it for years. Now seeing someone else being this attentive towards her Raelle, she didn''t know whether she felt happy or felt like crying.

    Maybe Raelle was right, her tears were endless whenever Raelle was involved. Even something like this could make her want to shed a few tears.

    Mother Yue ced a hand on her shoulder and said, ''Get used to it. You gave your daughter to him already.''

    Mu Chenyan made a face before she said in a small voice, "It''ll take time. I can''t just instantly get used to it."

    Shui Xian was oblivious to their reaction as he put a meatball into Raelle''s bowl before asking, "Do you want to try veggie chow mien?"

    Raelle stared at his face for half a minute before saying, "Sure."

    "Don''t just put food in her bowl," said Hyson. "You should also eat something. If you kept asking, she won''t say no to anything."

    "No one asked for your opinion," said Raelle.

    "Who was giving you the opinion?" retorted Hyson.

    Suddenly the cking sound was heard that made Hyson shut his mouth and focus on his food. As for Raelle, she didn''t need someone to tell her that she was supposed to focus on her food now. As long as there was food in her bowl, that''d always be where her focus would be.

 Chapter 124 - Nuts!

    The cking sound actually came from Mother Yue''s chopsticks that she had used to tap the ss beside her. But that sound was enough for Hyson to understand his mother''s meaning even without looking at her. He had always been able to understand his mother without any words.

    After Hyson sealed his mouth and Raelle focused on eating, the only people talking at the dining table were Mu Chenyan and Shui Xian with Mother Yue asionally using Mu Chenyan as her interpreter. It was needless to say that Shui Xian''s refined way of talking worked like a charm on thedies.

    The more he talked, the more they were impressed by him.

    Mother Yue tapped the beef and broli tter and Mu Chenyan told Shui Xian, "She is asking you to try it."

    Shui Xian smiled at her and took a bite of it. For a long minute, he didn''t say anything. He just let himself savor the taste. This used to be his favorite dish but in recent years, he had even forgotten the taste of it. Maybe becausetely, he also stopped being particr about food.

    Seeing the eager eyes of Mother Yue sparkling at him, he said, "This is delicious." Mother Yue showed him a content smile as he went on, "Actually, I used to love eating this when I was a kid." Mother Yue''s smile deepened and Shui Xian felt like there was something behind that smile that he couldn''t read.

    "Oh, so we made you feel nostalgic," stated Mu Chenyan.

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "My mother used to make this especially for me and Yanjun whenever we yed together."

    "Yanjun?" repeated Mu Chenyan.

    "Zhai Yanjun," Raelle suddenly moved her attention away from the food. "The guy who never showed up at the blind date."

    Mu Chenyan red up as she mmed the chopsticks on the table in rage. Mother Yue held her hand to push her anger down but she was still seething as she asked, "Is that guy your friend?"

    "We can''t really be considered that close," replied Shui Xian honestly. "We were ymates back in our childhood, so there is some connection. But calling him a close friend would be a little far-fetched."

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her chest, "That''s good. That''s very good. Keep your distance from the guy who dared to disrespect my Elle like that."

    Shui Xian was quiet for a minute before he said, "But I''m actually quite thankful to him. I was even nning on inviting him out for a meal." Mu Chenyan stared at him as he added, "After all, if he hadn''t been blind, how else would this geme into my life?"

    Mother Yue saw Mu Chenyan''s baffled face and patted her hand as she said, ''He knows how to talk. I don''t think you can be his match.''

    Mu Chenyan cursed in her head before she looked at Mother Yue and said, "It''s good that he can talk. That means he won''t fall behind our Elle."

    Mother Yue nodded her, showing her agreement. However, what no one noticed were subtle changes in Mother Yue''s expressions while they were talking. The changes were not that obvious and since she hid it well, it was even harder to tell what was she thinking by herself.

    After finishing the food before her, Raelle ced her chopsticks down and wiped her face. She wasn''t particrly interested in talking so she just silently listened. The reason why she wasn''t interested in joining their conversation was that she knew nothing about the topic being discussed.

    Shui Xian was praising thedies'' cooking skills and even could tell how they cooked certain things. She was too nk about this topic. She only knew how to eat. How that food got to her te had never been her concern and she had never tried to find out the process of it as well.

    "You must be feeling lonely without Raelle these days?" asked Shui Xian as he looked at Mu Chenyan.

    Mu Chenyan shrugged her shoulders, "It''s just the beginning. It''s no big deal." Then she patted Mother Yue''s head as she added, "Besides, Yue says, time teaches us how to live with others and time also teaches us how to live without them. It''s a lesson life keeps repeating until we either get used to it or until we find the one who would be willing to stay with us forever."

    Shui Xian pressed his lips together before his lips curved up slightly and he nodded agreeably.

    "So, that means you don''t miss my wife, right?"

    Mu Chenyan immediately panicked, "Who said that? I was just trying to act mature. Who said I''m willing to let her go? Besides, we live right next door. And that''s the only fact that helps me sleep peacefully at night. Knowing that she isn''t that far from me."

    "I don''t think Yue Fai''s mom is worried about her son as you''re about Raelle," said Shui Xian.

    Mother Yue nodded her head repeatedly to show just how true that statement was.

    "She has a strong heart," said Mu Chenyan. "Our Yueyue is a strong woman! I, on the other hand, have strong fists. My heart is very weak."

    While they were talking to each other, Hyson and Raelle were having their own silent conversation. Since they all knew signnguage, it was no surprise that they could talk secretly without anyone''s knowledge. Raelle had just asked him about what he had been busy with these days. And when Hyson replied that he was gonna audition, she paused for a minute.

    "Audition?" she asked out loud catching everyone''s attention. "You''re venturing into acting now?"

    Hyson gave her augh, "Of course! Now, I''m gonna appear on the big screen. Why? Jealous?"

    "Do you want some nuts?" Raelle asked out of nowhere.

    "No, why?" Hyson responded cautiously.

    "Because I think you''ve felt lonelytely," said Raelle. "After all, you''re nuts! Must need somepany from the same kind!"

    Hyson''s face stiffened before he threw her a re. "You can''t call me nuts!"

    "But I just did," retorted Raelle. "Besides, you assuming that I''d feel jealous, doesn''t that show that you''re upper floor has finally crashed from excessiveziness?"

    Although Shui Xian wanted tough at them, he stopped when he heard Mu Chenyan cough that attracted both Raelle and Hyson''s attention making them realize that at some unknown point, they had started talking out loud. Just great!

 Chapter 125 - Victory

    Although it wasn''t his first time seeing such a scene y out before his eyes, Shui Xian was still amused. The most amusing part was his wife''s sarcasm along with her expressionless face. To others, she might not bother to say an extra word but it seemed Hyson had spent quite some time and effort on training Raelle to shoot back with her words at him.

    While Shui Xian was getting used to this version of his wife, thedies at the table were long used to it. Usually, they might justugh it off with the kids but today, they had an extra guest and that made the situation different.

    Seeing his mother''s narrowed eyes, Hyson grinned sheepishly, "I forgot to stay quiet." But then he pointed at Raelle, "It''s her fault! She not only called me nuts but she also said that my brain''s programming crashed due to excessiveziness! How am Izy?" He stared at Raelle and said, "If my brain''s program is crashing, don''t forget yours also has a bug in it!"

    Raelle stared right at him as she replied, "I never said I''m perfect. Some ws are good. That makes us human."

    Hyson gaped at her for a minute before saying, "It''s rare hearing you call yourself a human."

    Before they could continue, Mu Chenyan finally spoke up, "Fai, you really have an audition?"

    Hyson turned his attention to her and nodded, "Yeah. It''s tomorrow. I''ve been studying these days for my role."

    "No wonder, you chose to visit the home over the weekend," said Mu Chenyan.

    "I came because I miss my mum," Hyson retorted.

    "Liar!" came Raelle''s voice. Hyson red at her as she continued to talk, "You''d alwayse to see your mother before any important event. Stop trying to find an excuse after all these years."

    Hyson looked at Shui Xian and felt like banging his head against the wall. Did his best friend had to do him this dirty? He was just trying to save some face here!

    Seeing Shui Xian''s confusion, Mu Chenyan exined it, "Our Fai has a strong belief that if he sees his mother before doing something important, he will always seed."

    Hyson slumped back in his chair and lost all hope of saving face. He wasn''t embarrassed to ept that he was a mama''s boy. But most people didn''t know that his whole belief lied in his mother. He worshipped her like a god. He was devoted to his mother.

    Shui Xian''s eyes widened slightly before he smiled at Hyson, "I didn''t think you''d be superstitious."

    "It has nothing to do with superstition," replied Hyson. "It''s all about what brings you courage. Some people keep lucky charms. Those lifeless things have no power and yet, they can bringfort to people and make them confident. I''m no different. I just need my mum''s hand on my head. That makes me believe that I''m capable of anything and everything."

    Shui Xian found it quite heartwarming and cute as well.

    Then Hyson looked at Raelle as he said, "Not everyone can be like our Ellie who believes she can conquer the world. I''m just an average human being who needs some support from my most precious person to keep going."

    "You don''t have to use me as an example," said Raelle.

    Mother Yue tugged at Hyson''s sleeve before he could say anything and said, ''Why didn''t you tell me about the audition?''

    "I came to tell you about it today," replied Hyson. "At first, I wasn''t that certain about it. But today, I had a good talk with Zhen Ge, now I really want to seed."

    Mother Yue frowned slightly, ''But why do you suddenly want to try acting?"

    "That''s my question as well," Mu Chenyan chimed in. "Don''t you love music? What''s with this sudden change?"

    "It''s not sudden," said Hyson patiently. "Someone said I should try everything while I''m young and free. Who knows I might end up enjoying it? And if I didn''t, I won''t force myself. Do I look like someone who would force myself to do something I''m not willing to do?"

    "Is it a series or a movie?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "At first, I thought it was going to be a series but I just learned it''s going to be a movie. It''s a popr fantasy novel. That also has been adapted into aic. My fans found the simrities between me and one of the supporting characters. And because of that, I got this chance."

    Mu Chenyan gave him an encouraging smile as she said, "That''s called affinity."

    "Huh?" Hyson was confused.

    Mu Chenyan smiled at him, "You were led to something that seemingly had no connection with you. Let''s say that character has a strong affinity with you and it''s calling your name."

    "I haven''t gotten the role yet," reminded Hyson.

    Mother Yue patted his shoulder and smiled at him beautifully, ''I believe in you.''

    Mu Chenyan also nodded along, "Me too. I also have full faith in you! Our little star is bound to shine brighter than anyone."

    "I wish you luck," Shui Xian also added sincerely.

    Hyson couldn''t help smiling because of them. He genuinely felt happy. But then he looked at Raelle, waiting for her to say something. Or more like urging her to say something!

    Seeing his raised brow, she said, "Don''t look at me. I have no words of encouragement for you." Hyson was clenching his fists when he watched her standing up and walking towards him. He stood up as she stood before him and took a moment to raise her hands to give him a hug. Hyson''s eyes widened. Close to his ear, she whispered, "Be victorious. As Raelle Xiang''s best friend, you have to win."

    Hyson felt his nose stinging. He thought he must be crazy because he felt like crying over such a simple act of a hug. But he knew in his heart, it wasn''t simple. For Raelle to take the initiative to hug someone was never a simple matter. He really felt like his heart would burst with happiness now. With all these people''s beliefs, how could he dare to let them down? He had to get this role at any cost now!

 Chapter 126 - Negative

    After lunch, even though Mu Chenyan and Mother Yue wanted Raelle and Shui Xian to stay but bothdies didn''t say it. They both knew it was important for Shui Xian and Raelle to spend more and more time alone to cultivate feelings and to understand each other better. It was already noon, it''d be better if they could send them on a romantic night out!

    Raelle had never been the kind of person who would spend hours saying just a simple goodbye. It was just one word, how hard was it to say? And how long did it take to say it? That''s why she had alreadye out of the house while Shui Xian was still pleasantly chatting with thedies. He was gentle and very respectful towards the elders and that anyone could see.

    Hyson followed Raelle out and said, "Xian Ge is really amazing. It''s rare to see my mother getting impressed by someone so easily."

    "He is my husband," was Raelle''s answer.

    Hyson looked at her face. Did she really have to show-off like that? He knew that already! Just because she was amazing, her husband had to be amazing! He really got that logic of hers already! There was no need to repeat it over and over again.

    "How many times are you gonna repeat that?" questioned Hyson in exasperation. "Like a broken record!"

    Raelle turned her eyes towards him, "I can repeat it for as long as I want. Do you think anyone can stop me?"

    Hyson shook his head, "No, your highness! Who would dare stop you? Mere mortals like us can''t challenge monsters like you. Oops, my mistake! I meant, immortals like you."

    Raelle gazed into his eyes, "Hyson, there isn''t much difference between immortals, mortals, and monsters. Mortals are always the starting point. It''s the mortals who ascend to heaven to be immortals and those are also mortals who descend to hell to take the shape of monsters! Don''t forget that."

    Hyson blinked at her before heughed out. It started as lowughter but soon, it got louder. He poked Raelle''s temple with his index finger before he said, "If you won''t say such wise words, no one will think your IQ is declining." He took a pause and added, "I mean, don''t always speak your wise words."

    "Why? It''s too much for your negative IQ?" questioned Raelle.

    Hyson chuckled at her happily. He didn''t get mad at all as he nodded, "Yeah. It''s too much for my negative IQ. I feel attacked by your words." As they stood in silence, Hyson looked at the rose in Raelle''s hand. He had actually noticed it as early as he had set his eyes on her today. But he thought she just picked it from inside his house since his mother loved to bring flowers home.

    But now that Raelle wasn''t even letting it go, Hyson had to rethink.

    "Where did you get the rose?" he asked. Raelle pointed towards Shui Xian with her chin. "Your husband gave it?" Raelle nodded in reply. "Wow!" He smiled at her as he said, "I also want to give you a pink rose."

    Raelle tore her gaze away from her rose and nced back at Hyson. "Why?"

    "To say thanks," he replied. Seeing Raelle''s nk eyes, he went on, "Pink rose symbolizes gratitude and joy. And I want to give it to you not only to show my gratitude but also to show how happy I am right now because of you."

    Raelle caressed the petals softly as she wondered out loud, "Then why he gave it to me? To say thanks or express his happiness?"

    "Maybe both," suggested Hyson. Then he leaned close to whisper, "By the way, pink roses are also seen as a token of admiration. Now what meaning behind this rose is, only your husband can clear that mystery."

    "What if I''m not that curious to solve the mystery?" retorted Raelle and Hyson was taken aback. The curious cat, Raelle Xiang was not curious! Did he somehow wake up in an alternate universe? Seeing how Hyson looked at her, Raelle added, "It doesn''t really matter what meaning it has. Isn''t it enough that it''s my first time receiving a flower like this? Also, instead of the meaning, I''m more interested in who gave it to me."

    Hyson''s lips curved up and he nodded his head, "You''re right. As long as the rose is from your husband, the meaning behind it really doesn''t matter."

    "But I am curious to know why you want to thank me," said Raelle.

    "For believing in me... For saying those words of encouragement that are so like you and yet they touched my heart... For one of the warmest hugs of my life... And for being you... Also, for being in my life," replied Hyson with a big smile stered on his face. Even if he cursed her to hell, he''d still be the one topliment her to heaven as well.

    The rtionship between them had always been like that.

    As Shui Xian came out of the house with thedies, they saw Raelle and Hyson talking at the side amiably. Seeing them like that Mu Chenyan said, "These two really alike." Shui Xian looked at her and she went on, "Haven''t you already noticed?" Shui Xian couldn''t say he didn''t but he still wanted to hear what she had to say. "They both are innocent devils. They''d hurt you with their words but they would do it in such an innocent way. They''d be jabbing at each other with their words but then innocently go back to being the best friends."

    Shui Xian had experienced the attack of their innocence firsthand. So, he knew what she was talking out on a personal level now.

    Mother Yue typed something on her phone and showed it to Shui Xian who read the strings of words before his eyes, ''Come again! You don''t have to hesitate.''

    Shui Xian smiled at her, "I think I''ll being often to taste your food from now on. But first, I''d love to invite you over for dinner sometime."

    Mu Chenyan chuckled at him, "You don''t worry about that. Just tell me the day, I''ll drag Yue over."

    "I''ll count on you then." Shui Xian said his goodbye and called out to Raelle, "Wifey, let''s go home!"

    Raelle turned to look at him and walked over. Her pace wasn''t hurried, but it wasn''t slow either as she came by his side and held his hand saying, "Let''s go home!" Shui Xian gave her a sparkling smile before they walked away.

 Chapter 127 - Biased Family

    While Raelle and Shui Xian walked away, behind them, three pairs of eyes were focused on their intertwined hands. There was a hint of surprise in those eyes and along with it, there was a lot of excitement.

    "Tell me, I am not seeing things?" came Mu Chenyan''s uncertain voice.

    "You''re not the only one," said Hyson with an amused smirk on his face.

    "Who held whose hand?" questioned Mu Chenyan.

    "I didn''t see," replied Hyson honestly.

    Both of them looked at Mother Yue who was smiling all by herself. Noticing two pairs of eyes on her, she responded, ''Raelle offered her hand to him and he took it naturally.''

    "This is rather shocking," muttered Hyson.

    "I need to share this with Elder Xiang," said Mu Chenyan and ran inside the house to get her phone.

    ''Let''s go inside,'' said Mother Yue.

    Hyson shook his head at her, "I should go back now. I only came to see you. Meeting Raelle was just a pleasant surprise and I decided to stay a bit longer." He looked at his wristwatch before added, "It''s not early anyway. By the time I reach the dorms, it''d be quite dark. And you don''t like it when I drive at night."

    Mother Yue nodded in understanding before she hugged him gently. As she pulled away, she told him, ''Don''t get nervous. And don''t stress over anything as well. Even if you don''t get the role, it''s not the end of the world. Don''t push yourself.''

    Hyson smiled at her, "Mum, I know. I''m not stressing over it."

    Mother Yue''s eyes narrowed, ''As if I don''t know my son.'' Hyson scratched the back of his head sheepishly. Indeed, she knew how stressful he would get. She caressed his cheek before she said, ''Just remember that mom is always with you. No matter what happens, mom will always be on your side.''

    Hyson chuckled happily before he engulfed her in his arms. cing his chin on her head, he said, "I don''t get nervous. I have you with me." He took a pause and added, "Besides, don''t you know who my best friend is? She can make people shudder in fear and if I can face her without getting nervous, then who dares to intimidate me?"

    Mother Yue hit his chest and pulled away, ''Don''t talk about her like this.''

    Hyson pouted at her, "Mothers should dote on sons, stop taking the side of the daughter of the house."

    Mother Yue red at him, ''I love my daughter more. You have a problem? What can you do about it?''

    He made a face at her, "This family is really biased when ites to the daughter. Poor son is pitiful."

    "Who said that?" came Mu Chenyan''s voice from behind. "We love our adorable son very much as well."

    Hyson scoffed, "No way! I can''t see that love." Afterughing around, he said, "I should really leave now." He sounded really unwilling to do so. He really wanted to stay and anyone could see it but he still was forcing himself.

    "So early?" asked Mu Chenyan. "I haven''t even pinched your cheeks yet."

    Hyson ced his hands on his cheeks to protect himself, "That''s enough for today. If you pinched anymore, my cheeks are gonna fall off."

    Mu Chenyan lifted her hand to patted his head, "Alright! We''re letting you go for now. Do your best! We are all rooting for you. As always!"

    Hyson hugged Mu Chenyan and said, "Yanyan, you''re really awesome!"

    "Where did thate from?"

    He gave her a smirk, "I heard about your heroic act of the day. I''m feeling proud of you. I already knew I have all the best women in my life but today, I feel extra proud. God has really blessed me with most amazing women."

    Mu Chenyan rubbed his head, "You keep an eye out for us. We might be old but we ain''t rusty yet. If our kids can try their best to make us proud, our old bones also need to make our kids proud of us. So, even if we have to drag our old bones, we''ll still do our best for you."

    Hyson looked at his mother with an envious gaze, "Mum, you really have the best friend. I''m jealous!"

    Mother Yue poked his head, ''You also have the best friend.''

    "When did I say my friend is not the best one?" he retorted. "It''s just that her words aren''t exactly pretty like your best friend."

    "And here I thought, she is quite mellow around you," said Mu Chenyan.

    Hyson also knew that the Raelle he was familiar with and the Raelle that people feared were two different people. Raelle unconsciously showed her mellow side to Hyson. It was not done on purpose. Besides, no matter how Raelle acted, it never fazed Hyson. He always weed the change in her. No matter how little it was.

    Just like he was extremely happy to see the way she was taking the initiative to make her marriage work. And he knew how she must have struggled within to let a stranger into her life. Even if she didn''t show or voice any of it.

    "I''ll keep you both updated," said Hyson before he kissed both thedies goodbye.

    Seeing that Mu Chenyan was nning on staying with his mother for a few more days, he was feeling a little rxed. He didn''t feel as sad while he was leaving as he usually did. The reason he always found it difficult to stay away from his mother was simple; he knew she would be lonely without him.

    While she urged him to live his own life freely, he wanted her to do the same. After walking some distance, he turned around to wave at them again because he knew they''d still be looking at him. And seeing them wave back, his heart filled with warmth.

    He really wished for these twodies to stop worrying about him and Raelle. They had spent their lives worrying about them. He didn''t even know when was thest time these two even thought about doing something just for themselves. Maybe that''s why he felt really happy when he heard that Mu Chenyan beat someone in the streets. It meant, she was finally willing to stop controlling her temper for Raelle''s sake.

    He found it to be a great start. And he wished his mother would follow suit. In fact, with Mu Chenyan around, he was sure she would influence his mother in some weird way.

 Chapter 128 - New Experience

    Shui Xian didn''t take Raelle straight back home, he just intentionally took the longer route back home. But he didn''t do it just to dy their return, he had another destination in mind as well. And on their way, Raelle didn''t question him once about their destination.

    "Don''t you want to know where we are going?" he finally asked her.

    "I''ll eventually know once I''m there," she replied.

    "Didn''t you say you don''t like surprises? You like to be in control," Shui Xian remembered every single thing rted to her. He couldn''t possibly forget it.

    Raelle hummed in reply, "And someone said, I should let life surprise me sometimes."

    Shui Xian didn''t continue talking. By the time they arrived at their destination, the sun was setting leaving behind the hues of orange like a burning me being engulfed by the sea of darkness. Shui Xian found a ce to park the car.

    They both alighted the car and Raelle looked around curiously. It was quite a crowded ce with street vendors littered around the sides. Raelle didn''t want to walk through the sea of people. It''d involve having to bump into random people. The idea wasn''t pleasing to her.

    Shui Xian looked at her face and came to stand behind her, he wrapped his arms around her like a shield as he said, "I won''t let anyone touch you." Raelle tilted her head to look into his eyes as he went on, "I know it''s crowded but I really want to show you something."

    Raelle looked at the throngs of people and then looked at him before nodding her head. Shui Xian stayed true to his words as he weaved the way through the crowd just for Raelle. In fact, her bodyguards would have done it easily for her but it''d create a huge scene, and usually, Raelle would never let them hover close to her unless it was indispensable.

    After passing through the street filled with people, Raelle finally got to breathe in fresh air when they arrived at the river bank where people were dining al fresco. As soon as the darkness engulfed the sky, the river bank lit up with papernterns. The beautifulnterns were of different shapes and sizes. Some were even floating in the river. It was a beautiful sight.

    The unique designs and vibrant colors caught Raelle''s attention and she continued to look at the sight before her. Her eyes didn''t even notice anything else. Shui Xian had already figured out that once his wife liked something, she would look at it for a long time intently as if trying to carve that beautiful scenery into her memory with each and every intricate detail of it.

    "If you hade out during the Yuan Xiao (Lantern) Festival, you would see this sight everywhere at night," Shui Xian told her. "But this is the only ce that would let thenterns stay for longer than others. So, I had to bring you here."

    Raelle finally tore her eyes away from the scene before her and fixed her eyes on his face as she asked, "Why?" He raised his brow inquisitively and she went on, "Why did you want to show it to me?"

    Shui Xian gave her a smile, "B¨¤ told me that you never even celebrated the Lunar New Year, so I figured you''d not know anything about the Yuan Xiao Festival as well. That''s why I wanted to bring you here. To see something beautiful and to experience something new as well."

    He took her hand and led her to a dining ce that was set in the open air with the perfect view of the river and thenterns. As they sat at the table, he ced the order for both of them.

    "So, I assume you like it?" he asked even if he could tell she did, he didn''t know why he wanted to hear it from her.

    "I like it," she replied honestly. Her words were simple, straightforward, honest. She neither exaggerated anything nor did she try to hide anything. And that''s what had been tugging at Shui Xian''s heart. He smiled in satisfaction.

    After a moment of silence, he spoke again, "About Hyson''s mother..." Raelle gave him all of her attention while he tried to look for the right words. Finally, he sighed out, "Just as you said, after seeing her, I can really tell how Hyson''s personality took form."

    "I already told you," said Raelle. "Yue isn''t like the other women. You can tell her apart even in the crowd of people. Not just because of her beauty, but because of her demeanor as well."

    "I really don''t believe that she came from a humble background. Even in simple clothes, she has a different air about her." Raelle nodded her head and he continued, "That made me really curious to know who she is."

    From his interaction with Mother Yue, he was certain that she definitely wasn''t a simple person. She might live in a shabby house but she didn''te from a shabby background. Everything about her screamed nobility. Standing beside Mu Chenyan, she didn''t let the other outshine her in any way.

    Finally, their order was served. A bowl of freshly cooked Tangyuan(glutinous rice balls) was ced before Raelle. Tang Yuan looked like round dumplings. And these round dumplings made of glutinous rice flour were served in syrup.

    Raelle looked up at Shui Xian who told her, "It''s a tradition to eat Tang Yuan during the festival. It symbolized harmony and reunion. Since I''m trying to bring you the authentic taste of this festival, trying this dessert is a must."

    Raelle didn''t question it and tried a small bite. Then slowly, continued to eat. She seriously won''t say whether it was good or bad, would she? Of course, he knew she wouldn''t!

    Right when Shui Xian was enjoying his dessert, his phone rang. He took a look at the caller id and let it ring. Even though Raelle didn''t question, he still told her, "It''s my sister. I guess she is losing her patience since I have been ignoring her."

    "If you have to go meet her, you can," said Raelle.

    "But I don''t want to meet her," he replied honestly. "My purpose is ignoring her. I definitely won''t be the first one to cave in this time around." He took a pause as he noticed the look on her face before saying, "You really aren''t interested in the people around me as I am interested in the people in your life."

 Chapter 129 - The Air We Breathe

    Whether Shui Xian was asking a question or stating a fact, Raelle had to give him a response. There was no way, she would stay silent.

    "I''ve already introduced you to the people who have a ce in my life," she said. "It''s nothing surprising that you''d be interested in them. On the other hand, I''ve only met your father." She took a pause and added, "The reason why you''re ignoring your sister... I''m not curious to know. As for why I''m not interested in her... She isn''t a part of your life. Not as far as I can see." She stared at thenterns intently before she went on, "Besides, isn''t it more important that I''m interested in you?"

    Herst statement had to be the highlight for Shui Xian. Because it actually made him forget what he really wanted to say to her. And while he was staring at her in silence, someone passed by his side. Soon, that ''someone'' backtracked his steps and came to stand right by his side.

    "Xian?"

    Hearing that voice, Shui Xian finally looked up and almost let his annoyance show on his face. However, he held back and tried to keep his usual appearance before this person.

    "Oh, you''re enjoying dessert with sister-inw," said the ''uninvited guest'' as he looked at Raelle.

    "Why? I am not allowed toe here with my wife?" Shui Xian''s eyes bore into Zhai Yanjun who didn''t even flinch.

    Rather casually, he replied, "No. In fact, this is the ce where you shoulde with your partner. Lanter Street is one of the top picks for romantic dates in our city. You can literally smell the intoxicating scent of love in the air around here."

    Raelle looked at him as she said, "What does it smell like?"

    "Pfft!" Shui Xian had to cover his mouth to hide hisughter while Zhai Yanjun''s face twitched at her question.

    Zhai Yanjun cleared his throat as he said, "Love is like oxygen. It''s odorless and colorless but it''s still there and it''s essential. We all need to breathe in oxygen to survive."

    Raelle propped her chin on the back of her knuckles as she stared at him, "The air we breathe contains 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, and only 1% carbon dioxide. There is no 100% oxygen in the air we breathe in. We don''t just survive on oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide are also a part of our life."

    Zhai Yanjun rubbed his hand as he said, "And here I thought I graduated high school."

    "In other words, Mr. Zhai, love is supposedly just another part of your life. It might be essential but we don''t entirely depend on it to survive," said Raelle as she even offered Zhai Yanjun a smile.

    Shui Xian was still trying to contain in hisughter. And he really didn''t feel like helping Zhai Yanjun at all. However, he wanted him to get lost as soon as possible!

    "Didn''t you say this ce is perfect for couples?" asked Shui Xian and Zhai Yanjun nodded his head. "Then where is your partner?" As he asked that, he even raised his brows at him provocatively.

    Zhai Yanjun was left gaping at Shui Xian. He actually poked right where it hurt! He already knew about his miserable dating life, and yet he had to go there! As always!

    "You feel happy when I tell you I have broken up again?" retorted Zhai Yanjun.

    Surprisingly, Shui Xian nodded his head, "It does make me feel good." While Zhai Yanjun was ring at him, Shui Xian asked, "But on a serious note, what are you really doing here?"

    Zhai Yanjun sighed out, "My grandparents had an argument."

    "What does that have to do with you being here?"

    "Let me finish," said Zhai Yanjun. "Grandma hasn''t been talking to grandpa for four days now. They had been in a cold war with each other to see who will give in first. And as always, grandpa is the one to give in first. Since grandma loves the freshly cooked Tangyuan of this specific store, I was sent on this confidential mission."

    Shui Xian nodded in understanding. Since his grandmother died before he was even born, he always admired the rtionship between Zhai Yanjun''s grandparents. Even at this age, the two elderly were just like a couple deeply in love.

    "Mister, your order is ready!"

    Zhai Yanjun turned around his head and walked over to get the packed food. When he returned, he waved at Shui Xian saying, "I shouldn''t interrupt your time with your wife. So, I''ll be taking my leave now. Have a good time together!" Shui Xian had yet to heave a sigh of relief when Zhai Yanjun appeared before him again, "I forgot something."

    "Now what?"

    "I was thinking about inviting you out for a meal to congratte you for the marriage," stated Zhai Yanjun. He sounded sincere and Shui Xian couldn''t find a reason to refuse either.

    "Don''t you have to go back to the base?" questioned Shui Xian.

    "My vacations are ending next week, and that''s why I want to take you two out for the meal before that."

    "There is no need for the meal," said Shui Xian. "We aren''t even that close."

    "We might not be close but don''t forget, our families are closely involved. Even your wife''s family is tied up with ours through friendship. That''s why I''m just being courteous," Zhai Yanjun merely stated the facts.

    While these two men were busy with their discussion, Raelle who had been silently listening noticed something particr on Zhai Yanjun''s body. Her flexible hands extended and soon she had the cold thing in her hand, she caressed its ck metallic body as she remarked, "So, this is Glock 17."

    Both Shui Xian and Zhai Yanjun''s heads whipped towards her. And instantly their eyes widened at the sight of the pistol in Raelle''s hands. Zhai Yanjun instantly checked his waist and was shocked to know that it was indeed his own gun that she held. As for when did she manage to take it, he couldn''t tell. But he med it on the fact that he was distracted by Shui Xian and had let his guard down.

    Raelle''s fair, slender fingers against the crude body of the gun, looked strange. Just one nce at her eyes and Shui Xian knew she was interested. She found something interesting.

 Chapter 130 - Dangerous Toys

    Zhai Yanjun stared at Shui Xian before turning his gaze towards Raelle whose attention was still on the interesting ''toy'' in her hands.

    "This..." Zhai Yanjun didn''t know what to say. He couldn''t be rude to her. She was not only Shui Xian''s wife, she was also Xiang Tianyu''s precious granddaughter. Besides, he didn''t have a habit of talking rudely to women. "That''s not a toy."

    "I know," replied Raelle. "It''s Glock 17 Gen 4 pistol. Much lighter than its predecessor, the Browning pistol. And even the uracy is much higher." She took out the loaded magazine and showed it to him saying, "See, even the magazine capacity is 17 x 9mm roundspared to the 13 rounds of Browning pistol."

    Zhai Yanjun was gawking at her now speechlessly. Afterughing speechlessly, he pointed out, "You definitely know your stuff, Miss Raelle." He took a pause before adding, "I assume, you''ve yed with these dangerous toys before?"

    Raelle put the magazine in, stood up, and pointed the gun at his forehead as she asked ndly, "Guess!"

    He wanted to snatch the gun from her hand. He didn''t think she was ying around. Something about her was making him feel uneasy. He really wanted to know how Shui Xian was seemingly so calm with a wife like this around.

    "If you guessed it wrong, there will be a penalty," she added.

    Zhai Yanjun narrowed his eyes at her, "Penalty?"

    Raelle slowly gave him a nod, "I''ll make you jump in this river."

    "You really hold grudges," said Zhai Yanjun. "I already apologized for not showing up at that blind date."

    "Raelle Xiang doesn''t have a habit of holding grudges. If I have an issue with you, rather than waiting for an opportunity, I''ll just strike." She gave him a look, "And right now, I do have an issue with you."

    "What did I do?" asked Zhai Yanjun. "Don''t tell me it''s because I ruined your romantic date night!"

    "You made my Yanyan upset," she stated calmly.

    Only then did it click in Shui Xian''s mind. During the dinner, when Yanjun''s name was brought up, Mu Chenyan was indeed upset. And even though Raelle was focused on eating, she had noted that down in her memory.

    "I don''t like people who make my people frown in displeasure," Raelle added. And the way she said ''my people'' made Shui Xian wonder if he was a part of that now.

    Zhai Yanjun couldn''t use force on her and didn''t want to take a risk with her either as he calmly told her, "Don''t shoot. I''ll have to write a report for each bullet. So, don''t shoot!" He then looked at Shui Xian asking for help.

    Shui Xian finally sighed out and said, "Wife, give the gun back to him."

    Raelle looked at Shui Xian for a while in silence before she threw the gun back at Zhai Yanjun who caught it swiftly. He didn''t even have to say it twice and she obediently gave the gun back to Zhai Yanjun. To say Zhai Yanjun was shocked would be an understatement. How long did these two even know each other? What the hell was wrong with this spark of chemistry flying between them?

    "For your information, this was my first time holding a real gun," said Raelle. "Anything that remotelyes close to the word, ''dangerous'' has always been kept away from me."

    "Then how do you know about the gun in detail?" inquired Zhai Yanjun and he couldn''t even hide his surprise from showing in his voice and from his face as well.

    "If one has an interest, one can find anything," replied Raelle. "Just because I have never held a gun before doesn''t mean that I don''t have the theoretical knowledge about it."

    Zhai Yanjun leaned close to Shui Xian as he whispered, "Your wife is a surprise box."

    "I know," replied Shui Xian.

    Zhai Yanjun heaved a sigh of relief and looked at Raelle saying, "I''ll find time to go and apologize to your family members for what I did. I''ll try my best to appease them." Raelle didn''t say anything in reply and he took a pause to add, "Oh, and since you''re so interested in guns. How abouting to the shooting range? I''ll be the tour guide for you."

    That idea actually caught Raelle''s interest as she said, "I''ll think about it."

    Zhai Yanjun smiled in satisfaction as he said, "That''s good. Now, I''m really leaving. My grandpa must be waiting for me." With that, he really rushed out of there. Not because he wanted to get lost but because he really couldn''t dy in delivering the order in his hands.

    After he left, Shui Xian took Raelle on a walk around Lantern Street. "Asking Yanjun to jump into the river in this season isn''t really considered punishment." Raelle faced him as he added, "He is used to swimming in ice-cold water in winters during training. This would be nothing to him."

    "I know that," replied Raelle. "I just wanted to see how he will take his gun back."

    Shui Xian shook his head at her, "He would never use force on you." Raelle blinked at him as he went on, "He might be in the military but he doesn''t depend on his fists. If he can get out of a situation with negotiation, he will try his best to do so."

    "He seems close to his grandparents," said Raelle.

    "He is," replied Shui Xian. "Yanjun was raised by his grandparents. And they dote on their one and only grandson. Likewise, he loves the elderly couple as well. In fact, he has always wanted to find a love like theirs. I think it''s his bad luck that he got tangled up with a stubborn girlfriend." After realizing something, Shui Xian frowned at her, "Why are you curious about him?"

    "Not him," replied Raelle. "His grandfather is my Opa''s best friend. His stories from his early days always involved his best friend, Zhai Feiyang. But I have never met him in person."

    Shui Xian finally rxed after hearing that before he touched the bridge of her nose like he usually did and said, "Next time, don''t y around with guns. Even if you''ve studied a lot about them, it''s different from the real thing. Practical is always different than theory."

    Raelle neither agreed nor refused his words. She just silently listened to him. As for what was on her mind at the moment, that was hard to tell. Because from her eyes, one would think she wasn''t thinking about anything at all.

 Chapter 131 - Abstract Art

    After leaving Shui Xian and Raelle, Zhai Yanjun made his way back towards the house. He tried his best to arrive as soon as possible but of course, he never went over the speed limit, and neither did he try to run through the red light.

    Just as he arrived at home, he was met with silence. He looked around for his grandfather and found him in the study room with his grandmother. Leaning against the door frame, he continued to gaze at the harmonious scene before him.

    Grandmother Zhai was a traditional Chinese painter. She was a renowned person in her field with plenty of her paintings being exhibited in art centers. Currently, her painting brush was galloping on the silk fabric that was ced on the table before her. While grandfather Zhai was just sitting beside her with his gaze focused on his wife''s attentive face.

    Zhai Yanjun chuckled silently to himself. It seemed, his trip was really unnecessary. This couple had already reconciled.

    "Grandpa, did you trick me into going out of the house so that you can enjoy your time with your wife?"

    Hearing their grandson''s voice, the elderly couple turned to look at him and a warm and weing smile bloomed on their faces. Unlike Grandfather Xiang, Grandfather Zhai had a mellow and easy-going personality. There was no intimidation in his eyes or in his aura. He looked like just a loving and gentle grandfather who would do anything to spoil his grandchildren.

    "I didn''t trick you," said Grandfather Zhai. "I really wanted my darling to have her favorite dessert."

    Grandmother Zhai didn''t even spare him a nce as she looked at her grandson and inquired in worry, "Junjun, what took you so long? Grandma''s been waiting for so long now."

    Zhai Yanjun slowly walked over and ced the bag of food before his grandfather before he hugged his grandmother from the side saying, "I met with Xian there, that''s why I was dyed."

    "Xian?" Grandmother Zhai raised her brow at him. "What was he doing there?"

    "He was having a romantic date with his wife," replied Zhai Yanjun. "And I unintentionally became the lightbulb between them."

    Grandfather Zhai scoffed at him, "You both are of the same age but so different. You are here going back and forth with the same girl for years and he already married twice!"

    "Why are you telling me that?" retorted Zhai Yanjun. "Besides, it''s not like he is my friend. Why should I follow in his footsteps?"

    Grandmother Zhai put the painting brush down and took off her gloves before she rubbed her grandson''s head saying, "For someone who ims to be ''not friends'', you both certainly know when to look for each other." Zhai Yanjun raised his brows as his grandmother went on, "Whenever you''re upset, you call him out for drinks. When he had his divorce, the first person he looked for was also you."

    "Your point is?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    Grandfather Zhai sighed out, "Your grandma is saying, friendship isn''t about sharing happiness. You can share happiness with anyone. It''s the time of sadness and hardship that tells you who is your real friend. While it''s true that both of you don''t share your happiness with each other but whenever you both need someone to hear you out, you''d always look for each other."

    Zhai Yanjun couldn''t find a way to refute their words. His rtionship with Shui Xian had always been like that. They neither hated each other nor did they like each other. And yet, they both had an understanding between them.

    Grandfather Zhai went out of the room with the bag of food to get it served while Zhai Yanjun was left with his grandmother. "You should have invited Xian home. I haven''t seen him in months now."

    "I did invite him out for a meal," Zhai Yanjun told her. "I''ll just bring him home for that meal. Is that okay?"

    Grandmother Zhai nodded at him. Soon, Grandfather Zhai came back with the tray of food and ced it on the small table in the corner. Zhai Yanjun was amused to see how his grandfather didn''t even bother asking any maid to serve the food but instead, he did it himself. Of course, even at this age, he''d like to serve his wife on his own.

    And as always, Grandmother Zhai gave the first bite to her grandson who didn''t even both acting polite. Grandfather Zhai gave his grandson a hard and long look. One could practically see daggers shooting towards Zhai Yanjun but thetter was unfazed because he was content with what he got.

    "Xian married Raelle Xiang, right?" Grandfather Zhai suddenly brought up the topic, reminding Zhai Yanjun about what Raelle did with him.

    "Oh, isn''t that Xiang Tianyu''s granddaughter whom you wanted to introduce to our Junjun?" asked Grandmother Zhai in surprise. She had heard from her grandson that Shui Xian got re-married but she didn''t know who his wife was.

    "Yes, and this beloved grandson of yours didn''t even have the courtesy to reject her on her face. He never even showed up making me lose face before Tianyu. He had been in the country for months and I can''t bring myself to go over to meet him. That''s how ashamed I am because of your beloved grandson!"

    Grandmother Zhai gave her husband a dissatisfied gaze, "Stop ming my grandson all the time. That girl''s fate was tied to Xian. No one could change it."

    Zhai Yanjun took this moment to interject as he nodded along with his grandmother, "I agree with that. They make an interesting pair." Seeing his grandparents'' inquisitive gaze he went on, "Xian and Raelle are like yin and yang energy. Both are different but they somehow look good together. Or should I say, theyplete each other." He shook his head as he continued, "They both look like a mismatched pair, and yet they have a feeling of ordant between them. Such a contradictory pair, I must say."

    Grandmother Zhai smiled gently, "In abstract art, usually the colors are mismatched but they blend well and they give the feeling of harmony. We call it, a piece of art. I believe Xian has finally found his piece of art that fits him well."

    Before Zhai Yanjun could say anything to agree, his phone rang. He took a look at the caller id and his face hardened. He immediately went to a side to take the call. When he came back, he informed, "I have to leave tonight."

    "Huh? Don''t you still have a few days before your vacation end?" asked Grandmother Zhai in worry.

    Zhai Yanjun pursed his lips and looked apologetically at her, "Something urgent cropped up. I have to go back to the base now."

    Grandmother Zhai sighed out, "This is why I didn''t want you to join the army. Couldn''t you follow your grandfather and be a schr? Or you could have be a businessman like your father. Why choose such a dangerous profession? I only have one grandson. Half of my life is drained away worrying about his safety and health!"

    Zhai Yanjun tried to cate her like a kid. It always happened whenever he had to leave for work, she''d alwaysin about why he chose to go to the military when he could have had an easy life.

    "Grandma, do you think running a business is simple? That''s also a battlefield. Managing apany, running a project, and conquering otherpanies, it''s all the same as a battlefield. One must learn to deploy troops, repatriate people, integrate resources, allocate and utilize resources and one must also understand the situation of the enemy, along with the current situation, and must have means to have courage and nning." He heaved a sigh as he added, "In fact, running a business has be more dangerous than the actual battlefield. Here, people are fighting against people. Just because you can''t see smoke, doesn''t mean there is no fire." He patted his grandmother''s hand softly as he concluded, "We are living in the era of peace. So, the real battlefield is now called business. I''m at much safer ce."

    "Let him go," said Grandfather Zhai. "Stop worrying our grandson by making that sad face."

    "Yes," agreed Zhai Yanjun. "Stop worrying me like this. Now, that you''ve moved so close to the base. I''ll find every chance toe back home to you."

    Grandmother Zhai pouted but she still had to reluctantly let him go. She was never able to stop him from doing what he wanted, how could she do it now?

 Chapter 132 - Both Make You Cry

    Cloe was walking through aisles, with her eyes wandering around. She pushed the trolley around and came to a stop as she picked up a mandarin to check it. She hardly had time to pamper herself and today, she nned to cook herself a feast.

    She had a vivid image in her mind of a candlelight dinner with soft music ying in the back. A goblet filled with aromatic sweet red wine in her hand as she would tell herself, ''Cloe, you''re doing well! You''re doing awesome in life! This is the true luxury!''

    She was giggling to herself, even though the idea was still in her head and had yet to be reality. However, it couldn''t stop her from being happy with herself. ''One should start from loving oneself!'' That''s what Cloe learned after working with Raelle Xiang.

    Back in the days, she was like a pushover. People would always take advantage of her whether by leaving all the work on her in group assignments or by making her run errands for them. It was the same reason why even her family regarded her differently. She was never the perfect daughter or perfect sister.

    However, Raelle Xiang managed to make her realize, it wasn''t that people didn''t love her. How could they love her when she didn''t even love herself? That''s why she began to focus on herself and what she wanted! Needless to say, she found loving herself quite fulfilling and that''s why Raelle''s position in her heart soared!

    *Ring! Ring!*

    She was happily humming when her phone rang in her bag. She was bobbing her head as she hummed a happy tune and took the call without looking at the caller id.

    "Cloe''s about to go on a date, please contact another day! Thank you!"

    Saying that, she was about to hang up but before her phone could lower down from her ear, she heard the voice, "How about I stop contacting you altogether?"

    Cloe almost fell over when she recognized that voice and even looked at the called id to confirm before cursing her luck. Argh! Why did her boss have to look for her on a Sunday?!

    Yes, she did admire Raelle but there was a limit to that! This boss was a good person but she was a boss who liked to abuse her! Okay, that might be going overboard because Raelle always paid her for extra work even if she had worked for merely one minute, she would pay her. But she always had to pick the wrong moments to torture her!

    "Chief," she called out in a dull voice. "Do you miss me so much that you can''t wait for Monday?"

    Raelle didn''t bother giving her a reply as she went straight to the point, "The project details you sent me. Did you check it before forwarding it?"

    "You asked me to send it to you as soon as I receive it from the nning Department," said Cloe. "And I did exactly that. I didn''t get the time to go through it yet."

    "There is plenty of room for improvement here," began Raelle and continued to state every single thing that needed to be changed. Cloe''s upper half body almost sprawled on the handle of the cart. Raelle had spoken for 15 minutes and there was hardly anything that Cloe paid attention to since she had already started to record the call to make it easier for herself.

    Recording things had be a habit after working with a boss who had an exceptional photogenic memory. But she was a normal person and had to find easier ways or more like shortcuts to keep up with her fast pace boss.

    "I''ll work on it after I get back home. You''ll receive the improved version at your table first thing in the morning," replied Cloe when Raelle stopped talking. "Anything else?"

    "No, that''d be all for now," said Raelle. She didn''t hang up, she just listened to voices behind Cloe and inquired, "Where are you right now?"

    "I''m at a supermarket," replied Cloe. Then she sighed and went on, "Trust me, I never thought grocery shopping could get this annoying as well. Wherever I look, I see couples shopping together. And here I am listening to your lecture on my day off!"

    "You can add thatint to the list of ''Things I hate about Raelle Xiang''," was Raelle''s indifferent response that made Cloe choke on air.

    "Chief, how do you know about that list?" inquired Cloe with a horrified expression. She had made that list just for venting out her anger. Who knew her boss would learn about it? But how did she do it?

    "You don''t need to know that," replied Raelle. "And if you''re finding it unfair that you''re alone. Why don''t you get a boyfriend for yourself?"

    Cloe snickered, "It''s a boyfriend! Not a pack of pistachios that I can buy at the supermarket!" She groaned in annoyance, "It would have been good if boyfriends also came with a price tag. Not that I want to get one but just stating a fact here."

    "I think you can get boyfriends at the supermarket as well."

    "Huh?" Cloe was dumbfounded by Raelle''s words.

    "Just get some onions for yourself," said Raelle.

    Cloe looked at the onions in her hand and looked around trying to figure out if Raelle was around. Patting her chest, she said, "What''s the connection between boyfriends and onions?"

    Raelle took a pause before replying, "I heard both make you cry."

    Cloe was dazed by that answer for a minute before she cursed out, "What the fuck!" but instantly, she pped her hand over her mouth realizing whom she was talking to.

    But getting a reaction from Raelle was already not a small foot and it was not surprising that Raelle didn''t re-up. When had she ever re-up? If only she could show some fluctuation in her emotions.

    "You''re gonna have to be more specific than that," began Raelle. "Don''t you think I have a lot of ''What the fuck!'' moments in my life?"

    Cloe didn''t know whether she was supposed to agree with that or not but she honestly wanted to agree and she did dare to nod with the belief that Raelle couldn''t see her.

    "Chief, do you have any other instructions for me?" Cloe asked cautiously.

    "As I said earlier, not for now," replied Raelle and hung up the call.

    Cloe finally heaved a sigh of relief. She didn''t know why she felt so apprehensive with just one phone call.

 Chapter 133 - Workout

    Cloe was left nkly staring at the onions she still was holding. She really didn''t know what to think at this moment. The problem was that she actually agreed with Raelle''s words. She strongly agreed with it! There was just no way around it!

    And this time, it wasn''t because she had been influenced by Raelle''s beliefs. It was purely because of her own experience that she couldn''t refute Raelle''s words. But she had to say, her boss had really touched a sensitive nerve and evoked a pain she thought she had buried too deep within her. Who knew, just one casual and the supposedly humorous sentence would end up reminding her of all the tears she shed.

    "I''m telling you, men are just... INFURIATING!"

    Cloe heard a female''s voice from the other side of the aisle but couldn''t help saying out loud, "I agree!"

    "And despicable!"

    "No lie there, sis!" replied Cloe again to aplete stranger whom she couldn''t even see. But she couldn''t help it, she was supposedly just talking to herself now.

    "That bastard used to make me, romantic ylists when we were dating and now, that we are married, he doesn''t even want to go grocery shopping with me!"

    Cloe tutted at the other side again, "Men..." She sighed heavily, "One moment they make you ylists, and the next, they add you to the yed list!" She looked at the onions again and finally decided to buy them. She needed them anyway, why was she even thinking for so long!

    As she just pushed the cart again, her cellphone rang again. This time she looked at the called id before taking the call and said, "Chief, I understand that you want me to work. But let me finish my shopping first!"

    But surprisingly, Raelle''s calm voice said to her, "You can just enjoy your date with yourself today. We can work tomorrow."

    "Huh?" Cloe was taken aback. "Chief? Is that really you?"

    "Forgot my voice that soon?" questioned Raelle.

    Cloeughed awkwardly as she said, "No, I can never forget your detached voice even if I want to do so." She cleared her throat and added, "Since you have called me again, I have something to tell you."

    "What is it?"

    "I think what Chief said earlier is right since both boyfriend and onions are meant to make you cry, why bother with the former? At least, when ites to onions, only my eyes will shed tears. With my boyfriend, my heart will tear open and bleed again! Such a disadvantageous deal it is!" Sheposed herself and concluded, "As you always say, we should never take a loss in life! Especially if it''s at the expense of our own self!"

    "Are you feeling happy with that thought alone?"

    Cloe gave an evilugh as she added, "Nope! I just realized I have no reason to be envious of couples around me. Everyone is busy with their future ex anyway!"

    "Enjoy your Sunday, Cloe!" said Raelle, and without even acknowledging her words in any sort of way, she hung up again.

    Meanwhile, Cloe was really amazed as she pushed the cart mumbling to herself, "Raelle Xiang actually changed her words? She gave me time to enjoy? I feel like I''m really dreaming!"

    While she happily skipped around with her cart, the woman who had been talking on the other side of the aisle had speciallye over to this side, to see which stranger was agreeing so enthusiastically with her words while being funny?

    The woman smacked the arm of the guy beside her saying, "I could have seen her if you didn''t stop me."

    "I don''t think she was trying to hurt you," said the man.

    "Little bro, I know she was just venting her own frustrations but I was actually enjoying what she said!"

    The man shook his head at his sister''s words and dragged her away saying, "Let''s go already before your kid starts crying for you!"

    .....

    Just as Cloe had said, it wasn''t every day that Raelle would let her off the hook even after giving her instructions. Today, just so happened that her husband had heard the conversation between them and said, "Today is Sunday. If she is going on a date, you shouldn''t bother her."

    "She has a date with herself," replied Raelle with a straight face. "Because she has no boyfriend."

    "Well, it''s possible that she finally found someone," suggested Shui Xian.

    "If she was really nning on meeting a guy, she''d be in a clothing store instead of a supermarket buying grocery."

    "You really know your assistant well," stated Shui Xian. "But anyway, she has the right to spend her Sunday leisurely with herself. Let her enjoy herself. Only then she''d be able to work properly on Monday."

    "But I needed that project..."

    Before she could continue, Shui Xian ced his finger on her lips and said, "Wifey, who said we are working on Sunday? I decided not to go out only because I wanted us to just rx at home. It never involved working." He leaned close to her ear and added, "But if you''re so eager to work, maybe we can both do a productive workout."

    The suggestive underlying meaning of his words hadpletely been lost in Raelle''s mind as she replied, "We can indeed go for a workout. It just so happens, we have a gym at home. Splendid! Let''s do that. I''m gonna call Cloe again."

    Shui Xian chuckled at her response before he sat down in the swing chair ced on the spacious balcony. He actually had expected her to take his words literally and she did. It looked like he still had a long way before teaching her the other meanings of a ''workout''. Especially, a productive one!

    When she came out on the balcony, she asked, "Why are you still here? Aren''t we gonna workout now?"

    He beckoned her over and as she stepped close to him, he held her wrist and pulled her down. Raelle was made to sit between his legs, with her backid against his chest while his hands slithered down her arms slowly before his hands enveloped hers tightly.

 Chapter 134 - Igniting A Fire

    With his left hand intertwined with her right hand and his right hand intertwined with her left hand, their posture was like he hadpletely engulfed her body in his embrace. Her back was still pressed against his chest as his face nuzzled closer to her hair.

    There was aplete silence shrouded around them. As they sat on the balcony, they could see the bright sunlight kissing the lush green grounds and trees that surrounded the vi. Shui Xian found this silenceforting and even her scent of roses that he had be familiar with felt rxing.

    Forget about any kind of workout, he didn''t even wish to move a muscle right now. He couldn''t even remember when was thest he just sat like this doing nothing at all while holding a soft and cuddly person in his arms. His eyes fixed on her fair and delicate neck. Her shrug had slid down from her round shoulders and Shui Xian couldn''t help pressing his lips against her fair skin.

    "What are we doing here?" Raelle had waited patiently for good fifteen minutes before opening her mouth to question. "Didn''t you say we''ll do work out?"

    "That''d be tiring," he replied. His lips brushed against the tip of her ear as he added, "I find this position ratherfortable. Let''s stay like this. Hmm?"

    His voice sounded mature and pleasant to hear. Slightly mellow and charismatic. It had the ability to make anyone''s heart skip a beat and make someone blush. But apparently, the one in his arms was an exception. She had no such reaction that he was used to getting from others in his life.

    Raelle contemted his words before she let her body sink deeper into his without hesitation. Since he didn''t want to move, there was no need for her to do so. Besides, she couldn''t deny that she also felt the same. This position was oddly feeling good to her. It was strange for her to be not doing anything, so she let herself focus on the rhythm of his heartbeat that she could feel against her skin.

    Suddenly, her eyes caught sight of something and she tilted her face a little. Since he was already close to her face, when she slightly tilted her face, her longshes that felt like half-opened sandalwood fan tickled his face as she blinked. The corner of his lips tugged up.

    "Why did you move these potted flowers here?" she questioned.

    Shui Xian didn''t even turn his face as he continued to hold her gaze and said, "Don''t you like beautiful things? I thought you should get to see the beauty of blooming flowers every morning. That''s why I asked the gardener to shift these here."

    "Oh..." she responded in understanding. "So, you did it for me?"

    "Yes," he replied.

    She blinked making his skin tingle even more and yet he didn''t move away. "Thank you!" Shui Xian raised his brow slightly at her. "When someone does something for you, we should always say thank you."

    "Even if you don''t like what they did for you?" he inquired out of the blue.

    "Yes, even if you don''t like it," she answered honestly. "When you say ''thank you'', you aren''t saying it for what they did for you but instead, that ''thank you'' is for the effort behind the action."

    Shui Xian unconsciously tightened his arms around her. His current mood could be described easily, he just wanted to hug her. That was it! Just a hug! That''s all he wanted to do now.

    The tip of his nose rubbed against her soft cheek and he kept it that way without saying another word to her.

    It''s such a beautiful thing when you realize that you''ve be sofortable with someone that just their presence is enough to soothe your heart and put it to rest. Not only that, they make you want to share everything that''s been bothering you. Shui Xian felt like she was someone he could share everything with. And the beautiful thing was, he didn''t even have to worry that she wouldugh at him.

    "Wife..."

    "Hm..." Raelle hummed in reply while the pads of her thumbs were still rubbing the skin of his hands. Softly, slowly, and almost in a rhythmic manner.

    "You have really soft skin," heplimented without thinking. His eyes were closed while his nose was still snuggling against the side of her face. "It''s almost like holding a newborn baby."

    "Have you held a newborn baby before?" she retorted.

    "No," he replied.

    "Then how do you know my skin is like a newborn baby?"

    "Because I really feel like taking a bite," he answered sincerely. There was no lust in his eyes, no trickery. The words came from the deepest recess of his heart. And it was because he felt overwhelmed with how her presence was spellbinding him.

    "You can just take a bite if you want to," she said looking at him. In fact, she tilted her head in a way to bite his chin before she said, "See? I just took a bite because I wanted to."

    Shui Xian was momentarily stunned because he could still feel the sensation of her teeth grazing against his skin. It wasn''t a real bite. It felt more like a cat just scratched him yfully. But this kitten in his arms was certainly lighting up the dead mes of passion in his heart now. And he was slowly finding himself defenseless against her sudden attacks.

    Shui Xian didn''t even think before he bit her lips. Then his lips moved against her in a slow-burning kiss. There was a tender feeling to the kiss, it wasn''t rushed. it didn''t apany any other feelings except for thefort that Shui Xian felt deep in his heart right now. He wanted to convey this feeling offort to her through this kiss.

    His tongue darted out licked the seam of her lips, Raelle parted her lips invitating him and allowed his tongue to enter her mouth before intertwining with her own tongue. His tongue explored her mouth earnestly and lovingly leaving Raelle breathlessly staring at him.

    He looked at her clear eyes that had a sheen of moisture and lightly kissed the corner of her eyes as he said softly, "You''re dangerous for my heart." Raelle was breathing through her mouth to catch her breath as he added, "But I''m not evenining."

 Chapter 135 - Wind Velocity

    The weekend ended sooner than it came. How did the two days flew by, Shui Xian couldn''t even tell! It was again, Monday! No matter how rigorous or workaholic he had be in recent years, he still couldn''t bring himself to like Monday mornings! It was like Monday mornings were a curse that he couldn''t be freed from.

    But his wife was different. Whether it was her life or her biological clock, everything was already nned for her. She''d neverin about Monday mornings. She still woke up early in the morning, put on her tracksuit, and tied up her sneakers.

    While she did all of this energetically, Shui Xian followed suit with half-opened eyes. Yes, he was still struggling to get out of the dreand. But he willed himself to have enough consciousness to follow her out for a morning jog.

    As the early morning cold breeze hit Shui Xian''s face, he was finally pulled out of the dreand. His eyes opened up and as he inhaled the fresh air, it made him feel refreshing. It not only helped him in waking up but also made him feel invigorated!

    Just like it had been happening for days, their path was met with a fluffy dog who loved to jump around whenever she saw Shui Xian. And as always, he couldn''t help squatting down to rub Coco''s head lovingly.

    "Were you waiting for me?" he asked with a huge grin hanging on his lips. Coco leaned into his hand and let him rub her all over without feeling shy or hostile. Shui Xian had to say that Coco was very intelligent. She not only recognized him, but she had also begun to wait for him. "Where is your ball? Why didn''t you bring it, eh?" Coco gave a low bark as if giving him a reply, to which, heughed and looked around trying to find her ball but couldn''t see it. "Did you lose it?"

    Raelle really wondered how could he continue tomunicate with a dog. The dog didn''t even reply. Wasn''t it just like talking to yourself? Then how could he enjoy it so much? And howe he always turned into a different person whenever he came across this dog? He looked like a carefree person, unrestrained, with gentleness and care sparkling through his eyes. He also felt lighthearted.

    This thought made Raelle''s eyes set on Coco for a while. No one could tell what she was thinking but she continued to look at that dog for a long while in silence.

    "Give me your paw," he said and Coco followed his words. As she put the paw in Shui Xian''s hands, he magically conjured up a treat and put it into her mouth. After fooling around happily with Coco, he said, "You should go look for your owner now! I''ll see you tomorrow!" And then he reluctantly let Coco run away. "She is a very happy dog. So cute!"

    Raelle looked at him, "The dog likes you."

    Shui Xian smiled at his wife as he nodded, "Coco likes me because I like her." He looked in the direction Coco vanished and added, "Dogs are very sensitive to human emotions. They can actually tell whether you have good intentions towards them or bad. They be sad when they feel their owner is sad. They can feel the pain of their owner. And they''d often try to y with the owner to lift up their mood. Dogs are just special."

    "Oh, even dogs are better than me when ites to emotions," she muttered out loud and left Shui Xian staring at her face dumbfoundedly. "What?" Noticing his gaze, she inquired. "Why are you looking at me like that?"

    Shui Xian ced his hand on Raelle''s head as he bent his waist toe to her eye level. "Wifey, what really runs through this brain of yours?"

    "Currently, my brain is trying to calcte the wind velocity," she said with a straight face.

    "Huh?" Shui Xian didn''t know whether tough or cry. Because he didn''t know whether she was being serious or was joking with him!

    "Why didn''t youugh?" she questioned making him raise his brow. "I just tried to make a joke here."

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched for a while before he chuckled at her helplessly, "Either something is wrong with your sense of humor or something is wrong with me who really wants tough right now."

    "There is a third option," she said. "Maybe something is wrong with both of us."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and nodded in agreement, "It makes sense."

    "Let''s go back now," said Raelle.

    "Wait!" he held her wrist to stop her. And as she turned around, he kneeled down before her. "Your shoce came off. Let me fix it for you." Raelle''s eyes were fixed on the back of his head from above while his pretty hands tied her shoce. Then he stood up and dusted off his hands saying, "It''s done. Let''s go now."

    As they walked back towards the house, Shui Xian asked, "Do you like ice-cream?" When he saw the expressionless face of Raelle, he answered himself, "Right. You can eat anything." He sighed internally before adding, "So, you really don''t have a favorite vor?"

    "No," she replied.

    "And you don''t have one that you dislike either?"

    "No," the answer was exactly the same once again.

    "So, you can eat even mint chocte chip?" he questioned and she shrugged her shoulders indifferently. "We really have to do something about your likes and dislikes," he mumbled mostly to himself. More like he was reminding himself to work on a n.

    "Do you have a favorite vor?" she asked all of a sudden even surprising Shui Xian. She was curious about his likes and dislikes.

    Why was this simple question enough to make him want to smile widely like a lunatic? Was there a short-circuit happening in his brain now?

    Clearing his mind and his throat, he answered, "I love vani and chocte. Both are versatile. These two can never go wrong!"

    Raelle hade to notice that when Shui Xian talked about something that loved, the corners of his eyes would crinkle softly. It felt like his eyes were smiling. And she found it quite interesting.

 Chapter 136 - Draw A Clear Line

    Shui Xian, who had been smiling brightly in the morning had reverted back to his solemn look as soon as he stepped inside the office. He was apletely different version of what he was around Raelle. Around her, he didn''t have to be cautious.

    For his employees, he was still the same cold boss that carried a monotonous air around him which was enough to make anyone stifle. He had tried to keep that appearance before Raelle as well, but it seemed his wife wasn''t fazed at all. Instead, she used her own sorcery to make him soften up.

    It had to be sorcery otherwise, how could she destroy all the defenses he spent years building around his heart that was now being crumbled down one by one? He couldn''t find any other exnation for now.

    Just as he had settled in his office, someone pushed open the door and stepped inside. Shui Xian didn''t even turn his head when he heard the click-ck of high heels behind him. There was only one person who would walk into his office in this manner and he actually didn''t even have to look to see who it was.

    "Shui Xian..." called out the woman who stepped inside his office without knocking at the door. The way she called out to him had a touch of familiarity but it also had a touch of politeness.

    The woman before him was dressed in professional attire with her sleek hair neatly tied up in a bun. Her face was radiating with gentleness as she walked over to him. She looked like a mature woman who was not only capable but also had an alluring charm about her. There was a soft smile on her lips that seemed to be permanently etched on her lips.

    Shui Xian had turned back to sit down on his chair after giving her a cursory nce once. He opened his bag to take out theptop and important documents as he said to her, "You''re back."

    "Yes," replied thedy before she came to sit before his desk. "The other party had been a little difficult to negotiate with, that''s why it took me some extra days to finalize the contract. But nothing to worry about now, I''ve handled everything already."

    She looked at his face eagerly as if waiting for somepliments but he only said, "Okay." However, that was enough to make her feel smug and superior since usually he would merely hum and give a nod in acknowledgment to people. And even that was hard toe by. At least, with her, he said a word to acknowledge her hard work.

    "How have you been in the past two weeks?" asked the woman with a meaningful smile hanging on her lips. "Did you even take care of your health? Or forgot about it since I wasn''t around to remind you?" She sounded like she was being yful but any keen person could clearly hear the underlying meaning behind her words.

    "I''ve been doing very well," he opened his mouth to reply.

    "That''s good," she said while trying to maintain her smile. "So, it seems you didn''t miss me at all."

    "Why would I?" retorted Shui Xian in a monotonous voice. "Ma Jin had been doing a good job. I didn''t even realize you''re gone."

    She made a face, "Shui Xian, how can you say that? Are I and Ma Jin the same to you? There is no difference between us?"

    Shui Xian finally looked up for a second as he said firmly, "Yes. Inside thepany, you''re just an employee like Ma Jin."

    "And outside of thepany?" she asked hopefully.

    "Outside thepany, you''re just an old acquaintance," his reply was clear and concise that made it difficult for her to continue talking.

    While he was focused on work, her eyes were fixed on his face. She didn''t know why but she felt like something was different about him. Others might not be able to see it, but she had known him for years now. There was no way, she won''t be able to see the slightest change in him. Usually, he wouldn''t reply to her teasing words. But today, he seemed to be trying to draw a clear line between them. Not like he usually responded positively to her teasing but today''s reaction was still out of ordinary.

    "Is there anything else you have to say, Ruan Meilin?" questioned Shui Xian without lifting his head.

    "No," she replied softly.

    *Knock! Knock!*

    With a couple of knocks at the door, Ma Jin opened the door and stepped inside cautiously. He extended the files towards Shui Xian saying, "Master Xian, these are the details for the Han coboration project."

    Shui Xian didn''t take the files, and instead said, "Pass all the details to Vice President, Ruan."

    Ma Jin cleared his throat before he respectfully offered all the files to Ruan Meilin who took it with a smile.

    "Make a proposal," said Shui Xian. "And then set a meeting with Han Group."

    "Yes," replied Ruan Meilin before she stepped out of the office.

    Outside the office, the female employees that had been gossiping instantly shut their mouths and greeted her respectfully as, "Vice President!" But as soon as she vanished around the corner, the smile on thesedies'' faces instantly vanished.

    "Hmph! The days had been good without this green tea bitch[1] around," said one of the female employees.

    "Shh... Lower your voice" warned the other one. "She is Master Xian''s girlfriend. Watch what you say. What if he heard us? Won''t we all get in trouble?"

    "Oh please!" spoke another one. "Is she even worthy to stand beside our Master Xian?"

    "But she had been standing beside him for years now," said the girl who spoke earlier. "Have you ever seen another woman beside Master Xian other than her?"

    "She is just exploiting her position of being a Vice President," replied the sharp-tongued woman. "Our Master Xian never even spare her a second nce. She is the only one who can''t take hints."

    "I really hope you''re right and she doesn''t get to be Master Xian''s wife. It will be a disaster!"

    [1] ''Green tea bitch'': An ambitious woman who ''pretends to be innocent''

 Chapter 137 - One For You

    Even after Ruan Meilin left the office, Ma Jin stood rooted to his ce. He carefully looked at Shui Xian''s expressions before mentally sighing. He had been around his boss for years and yet, he couldn''t read him well. But he knew that Ruan Meilin had been with Shui Xian from the very beginning. That''s why he always felt strange seeing how Shui Xian treated her.

    He had heard that they had been ssmates in high school, but how estranged Shui Xian acted towards Ruan Meilin would give one the impression as if they were just strangers. He had never reacted to Ruan Meilin''s casual way of talking to him or deliberately showing the familiarity between them, instead, Shui Xian had stayed silent.

    Even when there were several rumors in the inner business circle about Shui Xian and Ruan Meilin''s rtionship. He never reacted to any of it.

    It was as if he had nothing to with any of it. And Ma Jin could actually see that Shui Xian really felt like it had nothing to do with him. He''d never waste time on such insignificant matters.

    "Why are you still standing here?" asked Shui Xian.

    Ma Jin''s daydreaming broke as he faced Shui Xian''s intimidating gaze. Swallowing his saliva, he reminded Shui Xian regarding the meetings he had to attend for the day.

    "Also, the government project we''ve been preparing for, the bid will be held in about two weeks from now," told Ma Jin. "Apart from our team, three major enterprises are gonna take part in the bid. Thepetition won''t be easy this time around."

    "I''ll handle it personally," said Shui Xian. "And I''ll also handpick the team for this project."

    "Yes," with that Ma Jin took his leave and left Shui Xian to do his own stuff.

    Later, Shui Xian got busy to the point that he didn''t even have time to drink a ss of water. But it onlysted till lunchbreak rolled in.

    In the meeting room, the heads of different departments were seated and even the Vice President sat across from the President. Suddenly, Shui Xian''s mobile red as his rm rang out.

    Shui Xian raised his hand to stop the person who was in the middle of the report as he checked the time and said, "Let''s start again after an hour. You all can go and enjoy your lunch now."

    Seemingly not surprised by this change, almost everyone left the meeting room. Well, except for Ruan Meilin who was dumbstruck. When did this workaholic start caring about lunchbreaks? And why did no one else found it strange?

    Well, she didn''t even know that everyone already found it weird when it happened for the first timest week. Now, they had alle to terms with this positive change. Only she was a little slow in catching the news.

    She ran after him and before Shui Xian could enter his office, she called out, "Shui Xian!" He stopped but he didn''t turn around. Instead, she had to walk up to him as she said, "Since you''re free now, how about we discuss the new project that you gave me. I''ve already looked through the details and I have a n that I''d like to discuss with you."

    "I think I clearly mentioned earlier that it''s a lunch break," Shui Xian repeated in a rather impatient manner.

    Taken aback by his reply, she took a moment before her smile could recover as she said, "Then how about we have lunch together?"

    Shui Xian''s phone rang and he didn''t need to see to know that it was his punctual wife making the call to him at this time. He had deliberately set his rm five minutes before the time for her phone call. That gave him enough time toe back to his office, but today he was being obstructed outside his office which he wasn''t liking at all.

    "You can enjoy your lunch on your own," said Shui Xian before he walked past her and entered the office. "Hey, Wifey!" was the first thing he said as soon as the call connected.

    "Usually, you pick up at the third ring," said Raelle clearly reminding him that he had taken longer than usual to take her call.

    "I know," replied Shui Xian. "I''m sorry for that."

    "That apology was not needed but it''s still epted," replied Raelle making Shui Xian''s lips curve up.

    After talking just about any random stuff, he asked, "So, what are you having for lunch today?"

    He heard his wife''s voice calling out, "Cloe, what''s in lunch?"

    Cloe cleared her throat and told her the name of the dishes in an orderly manner, "Fattoush sd with sumac and lemon dressing. Creamy mushroom soup. Onion rice with nuts and Mango pudding."

    Shui Xian''s brows jumped up slightly as he asked, "Wifey, is that a lunch menu or a party menu?"

    "There is a little bit of everything," said Raelle. "Just enough for one person."

    "Oh, that means I can''t share it with you?" said Shui Xian rather ruefully. "And here I thought since you have such variety, maybe I should make a visit to have lunch with you."

    Shui Xian thought she would instantly reject the idea just as she had rejected when he suggested that they could go to work together. But who knew she would say, "It''ll take you over half an hour to get here and the same amount of time to get back. Do you really want to spend that much time on the road?"

    Although it sounded like a roundabout way of hers to refuse him, however, Shui Xian thought otherwise. If his wife wanted to refuse, she would do it outrightly. Currently, she wasn''t refusing him but rather, asking him whether he was willing to take such a long trip just for a lunch with her.

    "If I knew you''d agree, I''d have set out earlier!" replied Shui Xian.

    Hearing the sound of knocking, Shui Xian went quiet and his facial expressions reverted back to coldness as well. A female secretary came inside with a tray of food for him and cautiously ced it on the coffee table before hurriedly rushing out.

    But as soon as Shui Xian looked at the food, he was stunned. "Wife, what game are you ying?"

    "It seems like you received your lunch," came Raelle''s voice making him purse his lips. "Have I mentioned that my lunchboxes from home every day? Today, I just happened to ask for two. One for you and one for me."

    Shui Xian felt like someone just stole his breath with that one sentence!

 Chapter 138 - Heavy Tastes

    Shui Xian was still in a daze when suddenly the voice call disconnected. He thought it was a connection issue and was about to make a call back when he received her call again. But this time, it was a video call.

    Shui Xian took two deep breaths before he epted the call and Raelle''s face appeared on the screen. "Why did you get the same lunch for me?" he asked as his eyes bore into her eyes through the screen.

    "Because I wanted to have lunch with you," she replied frankly.

    Shui Xian could feel the thumping sound of his heart as it drummed in his chest while his eyes continued to gaze into her eyes.

    "You''re there and I''m here," he said before licking his lips. "How is that having lunch together?"

    Raelle took a spoonful of the soup and drank it before saying, "You are eating what I''m eating. I can see you right before my eyes. I can even hear your voice. Tell me, how is this not having lunch together?"

    Now, how was the defenseless Shui Xian supposed to argue with that statement? It sounded so wrong and yet, it sounded right! Once again, the feelings she evoked in him were contradictory.

    "Aren''t you gonna eat?" asked Raelle. "Or you don''t like the food?"

    Shui Xian gave her a smile, "I have no issue with the food."

    "Then do you have an issue with thepany you have over this meal?" she inquired.

    Shui Xian squinted his eyes at her, "No. I definitely needed thepany of my wife for this meal." He ced his phone on the table before him with the support of whatever he could find there before he tasted the food and told her, "Grandfather really chose the best of the best chefs for your meals."

    Raelle had nothing to say about that though since she never really focused on what she was eating or how it tasted really. For her, there were only four vors; spicy, sweet, bitter, and sour! Apart from that, she couldn''t tell anything about the rich vors of her meticulously prepared meals.

    "What are you doing?"

    He heard Raelle''s voice and frowned as he answered, "I''m eating."

    Raelle looked up at the screen and shook her head, "I wasn''t talking to you, Hubby!"

    "Oh..." responded Shui Xian. "Then who are you talking to?"

    Raelle looked at the woman who was trying to sneak up to her side, "Cloe, don''t you have to go for lunch?"

    Cloe''s steps halted and her craned neck that had already gone stiff returned to its original ce. She had been painstakingly trying to sneak a peek at Raelle''s iPad screen but to no avail. Raelle wasn''t even letting here close to her!

    Clearing her throat, she said, "Chief, how about I give youpany as well?"

    "Yourpany is no longer required," answered Raelle straightforwardly.

    Cloe took a moment to inhale deeply before she exhaled and said, "I never thought you''d also forget about the ''old'' as long as ''new'' got introduced to you." With no other option, as she saw Raelle''s nk face, she just had to leave the room.

    She never knew her boss was so stingy! Just one look! That''s all she asked for but no!

    It wasn''t her fault that she was growing impatient now! First, those pretty hands and now, that beautiful voice that could strike anyone''s heart. Why didn''t her boss understand that the more she was hiding her husband, the more curious she was getting! She just had to get one glimpse now! At any cost, she had to see how handsome a man he was to have such a beautiful voice.

    "Was that your assistant?" inquired Shui Xian.

    "Assistant, Vice General Manager, an onerous person, and an overly sharine girl," said Raelle as she shrugged. "You can use any of these titles to call her."

    "She is Vice General Manager?" asked Shui Xian. "I thought she is your assistant!"

    "She started out as my assistant," replied Raelle. "Last year, she reached the position of Vice General Manager but she is still the one ying the role of my assistant."

    "Why?"

    "Because I''m used to her," was Raelle''s response. "Also, finding another assistant aspetent as her and getting used to that person would be a long and tiring process. In short, too troublesome for me!"

    One couldn''t me Shui Xian for being surprised. After all, anyone would only see Cloe as just Raelle''s assistant but only the internal staff knew that she was the second-highest in power within the corporation. Cloe was not only the most trusted person of Raelle, but she was also the person who stayed with her the longest.

    And even though Cloe''s position was already strong, she still acted as Raelle''s assistant. And no one could see it changing it anytime soon.

    "Chief, I have the sales analysis report," Cloe''s head appeared at the door again.

    Raelle lifted up her eyes as she looked straight at Cloe, "Do you want to see my husband or do you want to keep your job?"

    "Both!" was Cloe''s firm reply. She smiled at Raelle, "It''s all because of you. I want to see your husband because it''s your husband. And I want to keep the job because that way, you''d stay as my boss."

    "If you continued to talk like this, I might assume you''re in love with my wife," Cloe heard that mellow and maic voice again. Her eyes widened slightly before her mind registered Shui Xian''s words.

    Scratching the back of her head, she said sheepishly, "I don''t have such heavy tastes."

    "Pfft!" Shui Xianughed out before saying, "She is funny."

    "For the first time, I feel like I''m can fly to heaven with this onepliment," said Cloe.

    "Scram!"

    One word from Raelle and Cloe instantly closed the door.

    "You won''t say anything else to her?" Shui Xian was surprised seeing how Raelle let Cloe mess around with her without saying anything at all.

    "She made youugh," said Raelle. "I think I can overlook the rest!"

    Shui Xian was lost for words yet again. He stared at her and asked, "Wifey, are you sure this is your first time in a rtionship?"

    "Positive!" replied Raelle. "Why?"

    "Because you really know how to sneak an attack!"

 Chapter 139 - Believe In You

    19F, Block B, Huayu Building, Star Film Studio...

    Outside the audition room, wherever one looked they could see handsome young men gathered around waiting for their turn. Some were from Film Academy, some already had gained some fame in the industry, some were novices who came to try their luck.

    Hyson didn''t know which category he fell in. He wasn''t someone who had any experience in acting but he had his own fame in the singing industry. Although he was a beginner, he wasn''t here just to try his luck. He was serious about doing his very best.

    From the time he had been sitting here waiting for his turn, he had gained a deeper understanding of this project.

    For instance, he learned that the original author of the fantasy series, ''Secret'' was also the producer and assistant director for the movie. Also, he learned how the author, Sora actually convinced an internationally renowned and prestigious director, Amiah Jade to board this ship.

    "Do you know this is Director Jade''s first domestic project?"

    "There is a rumor that the director only chose this project because of her friendship with the scriptwriter."

    "I heard Director Jade is a difficult woman."

    "I just wish to get a chance to work with her once. Even as a small role, the impact will be big."

    "This time, you should all be worried about the scriptwriter instead. As the author of the original series, her expectations for the characters are high."

    "Haiz! She is the kind of author who really wants to bring her characters to life in the most realistic way possible. Isn''t that why she is investing so much money?"

    Hyson had lowered his cap to hide his face and had even been keeping a low profile by hiding in a corner. No matter what all of these people gossiped about, it didn''t affect him at all. He didn''t think there was anyone more difficult than his own best friend. So, whoever this director was, he wasn''t worried about her.

    And neither did he think about the author who had unrealistic expectations from the actors. Because all this while, he was only thinking about the people who had full faith in him and his abilities. Whether it was his family or his group members, everyone had wished him luck.

    But even if he was a confident guy, who rarely got nervous, currently he could feel his palms sweating. He wasn''t nervous about failing but rather, he was worried about what if he wasn''t able to do his best? He didn''t wish to give up without giving his absolute best!

    When it came to singing, he was confident even if he didn''t practice, he''d be confident. However, acting wasn''t his field, it was inevitable that he''d feel some pressure. But that tiny bit of pressure and doubt was enough to make him a nervous wreck.

    Seeing how he still had time before his turn, he stood up and went to take some fresh air. Taking a deep breath, he rummaged out his phone and scrolled through his contacts.

    After much contemtion, he dialed a number.

    "Hey, Mr. Actor!"

    Hyson''s lips curved up as he heard that voice, "Dear Ellie, I''ve not even begun yet."

    "Oh... Then hello, Mr. Future Actor!"

    Hyson shook his head, "What are you doing?" Before she could reply, he went on, "Wait! Forget it. I must have lost my mind to ask you that question. Obviously, you must be working."

    Raelle didn''t say anything in response to his words, instead, she asked, "Hyson, are you feeling nervous?"

    Hyson exhaled a breath, "When did Miss insensitive be so sensitive of my emotions?"

    "Don''t tter yourself," said Raelle. "It''s just that you have the same patterns when ites to emotions. That''s why I have it all noted down in my mind."

    Hyson smiled to himself as he looked towards the blue sky, "Then do you have a way to make my nervousness go away?"

    "For that, you need to tell me what is making you nervous?" She took a brief pause before adding, "It can''t be that you have stage fright."

    "No, of course not!" replied Hyson. "It''s just that I''m not very confident with my acting. And you know when I''m not confident about something, I tend to get nervous."

    "Hmm..." Raelle hummed in response. "Then there is a simple solution."

    "What is that?" he asked curiously.

    "Deception!" she replied.

    "Huh?" Hyson was dumbfounded by that reply.

    Before he could ask, she borated herself, "Acting is based on deception. You just have to learn to deceive people. Look at it this way, an actor''s job is to deceive the audience. The audience doesn''t want to see you as Hyson on the screen, they want to see the character you''ll be portraying. And you can''t deceive others unless you know how to deceive yourself. First of all, you need to make yourself believe that you''re not Yue Fai anymore. You have to wear the facade of the character and embrace it. Everything will be natural once you be one with your character. You can''t have the emotions of Yue Fai to y the role of a different character on screen."

    "Professor Raelle, when are you nning on being a guest speaker in the Film Academy? They''d be honored to have you," said Hyson jokingly. However, every single of words had already struck his heart. His mind and heart had already embedded all of her words deeply.

    "I''m expensive," replied Raelle. "Isn''t it enough that I''m honoring you by being your exclusive teacher?"

    Hyson chuckled, "Right. You''re my exclusive teacher. I''m truly ttered!"

    Raelle was silent for a minute before she said, "Do you remember the time I started calling you Hyson?" Hyson nodded to himself even though she couldn''t see it. "Hyson means flourishing spring. I told you back then that you''re meant to flourish like the name I gave you. Are you really doubting me?"

    Hyson pressed his lips together before saying, "If I had doubted you, why else would I have fought so strongly with mypany just to have Hyson as my stage name?"

    "That means you believe in me?" she questioned.

    "I do," he replied.

    "Then right now, you should believe in me again," said Raelle. "Because I believe in you."

 Chapter 140 - Audition

    Believe is the beginning of a miracle.

    Anything is possible in life as long as you wholeheartedly believe in it. You have to believe that you can do it, you have to believe that you deserve it and you have to believe that you''ll get it!

    This belief is what leads you to unexpected results.

    However, how many people do you find in life who believes in your more than even you believe yourself? It definitely doesn''t happen often.

    For Hyson, this was his driving force. The belief of everyone in his life. Whether it was his mother or Raelle, this belief had gotten him where he was today.

    From the first day he met her, Raelle had rarely called him ''Yue Fai.'' In fact, even before his debut as a singer, she had been calling him Hyson. She always said that the name suited him. She always said he was supposed to thrive.

    And today, once again, this belief had made all his misgivings disappear. That slight doubt he had in his heart vanished with Raelle''s simple words. When even he didn''t believe in himself, she''d still believe in him. And that was the beauty of the bond they shared.

    With a renewed faith in himself, Hyson finally entered the audition hall.

    Only after entering did he take off his cap and ran a hand through his hair to fix it before he fixed his jacket as well to make himself look presentable before the casting director.

    Before him, six people were seated. Four of which were women and while the other two were men. And Hyson could only recognize one face and that was of He Rou. The female lead for ''Secret.''

    As for the others, he honestly didn''t know much.

    While he was observing the faces of everyone, the rest were also evaluating his looks. But there was one fervent gaze that had been stuck on his from the moment, he took off his cap.

    "I want him," those words were spoken softly and only the person sitting beside her could hear it.

    Giving her a displeased look, the other person said, "Sora, don''t be impulsive."

    The original author of the series, Sora gave her friend a look as she replied, "Mia, I''m not being impulsive. He really looks like the perfect ''Yang Anyu'' in my mind."

    Amiah Jade, the director of this movie was clearly not pleased to hear that. "I don''t care what image you have in your mind. I want to see his skills first." She gave her a look as she added, "I''m sure if you''re just looking for pretty faces, you wouldn''t have called me to be a part of this project."

    Sora leaned back in her chair as she sighed out, "That''s true."

    Hyson introduced himself with a pleasant smile on his face. Soon, he was given a scene to act out.

    The role Hyson was auditioning for was actually someonepletely different than his own self. The character, Yang Anyu was not only dark and twisted, it was also known as the heartless one. He was called a smiling fox who always kept a devilish smile on his lips but had an unscrupulous heart.

    But in truth, Yang Anyu was an innocent soul who was tainted by the darkness of this world and had to change himself. Behind his devilish smile, he didn''t hide his unscrupulous heart but instead, he was hiding his bleeding and aching heart.

    The scene he had to act out was actually a very important scene in the book. It was the turning point of the female lead''s fate along with the beginning of Yang Anyu''s self-torture. It was the scene where Yang Anyu stabbed the protagonist, Lin Lan''s heart after an intense confrontation.

    "He Rou," called out Sora. "How about apanying him for this scene? For better effects?"

    Since it was the author''s suggestion, naturally no one objected to it. Soon, the female lead, He Rou stood up and joined Hyson at the front.

    Hyson gave her a smile, "I''m in your care, Senior He."

    He Rou didn''t return his smile but instead gave him a nod of acknowledgment.

    Hyson took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and let Raelle''s words rang in his mind repeatedly, ''Deception! You have to embrace your character. Deceive yourself to deceive others.'' And just as he opened his eyes, the look in his eyespletely changed just as his smile also vanished.

    The way his eyes disyed the emotional struggle, helplessness, pain, and love, was truly remarkable. He had truly embraced Yang Anyu''s character who seemingly was a selfish and heartless man but who loved Lin Lan more than anyone else.

    He Rou was an exceptional actress. She portrayed the feelings of betrayal, pain, love, and disbelief through her eyes as she stared at Yang Anyu whom she had loved for years.

    "If I ever got the chance toe back, I''ll kill you with my own hands Yang Anyu!" were Lin Lan''sst words as she took her final breath.

    Yang Anyu held her falling body in his embrace carefully. Holding her close to his chest, his eyes looked at her face longingly as he said, "I''ll keep myself alive. So, you bettere back to take this life."

    It was Sora who stood up and pped excitedly seeing the scene before her. Now, she was all the more certain that she found her Yang Anyu.

    Amiah Jade had to hold her sleeve and pull her down to her seat saying, "Don''t be so excited."

    "I can''t help it," was her response. In her opinion, Yang Anyu was the most important character in her book. He wasn''t the male lead but he was the character with the most depth. Although he was shown as a viin as the story progressed, he was anything but...

    That''s why she had been so worried about finding the right person to y this character.

    Meanwhile, He Rou also stood up and her gaze towards Hyson gazed. She looked at him carefully as she said in a soft voice, "It''ll be interesting working with you."

    Hyson didn''t get her meaning as he stared at her walking back to her seat. Although the author herself had apuded for his performance, he was still told like others to go back first while their team would inform him about the result within a couple of days.

    However, Hyson wasn''t feeling anxious about it any longer. He was perfectly satisfied with his own performance. And that''s why he happily made his way out and found his manager waiting for him outside the building.

    "Ge, didn''t I tell you to leave?"

    The manager gave him a look, "I couldn''t leave."

    Hyson didn''t say anything and sat down in the minivan to go back.

 Chapter 141 - Extra Special

    When Shui Xian came back home in the evening, he met his father reading a book in the lounge while a beautiful soft melody yed in the background. Today, he had taken an early leave toe home and wait for his wife. Usually, Raelle woulde home before him because her office building was closer to the house.

    Seeing his son home, Shui Koshing smiled widely, "Oh my! Is it really my son?"

    "Why? You have a doubt?" asked Shui Xian as he loosened his tie and rolled his sleeve slightly.

    "I do," was Shui Koshing''s response. "Because my son barely knew the way to home. As for the one before me right now, he is definitely Raelle''s husband."

    Shui Xian shook his head at his father, "B¨¤, are you making fun of your son now?"

    Shui Koshingughed heartily. And seeing that, Shui Xian was genuinely happy. He didn''t know but from the time he married Raelle, he could see his fatherughing more and more. He looked like he was at peace now.

    "Have any ns with our Raelle?" asked Shui Koshing and seeing how his son shook his head, he frowned slightly. "Really? Then why did youe home so early?"

    "I just wanted to," replied Shui Xian. "Why? Can''t I wait for my wife?"

    "No, you can," said Shui Koshing. "But I was hoping you''dete." Shui Xian raised his brow as his father went on, "I was expecting to spend some time with my daughter."

    Shui Xian gave his father a look, "You mean, you wanted to y video games with her?"

    Shui Koshing cleared his throat and smiled at his son sheepishly since he couldn''t refute it. He had been expecting that but he didn''t want to disturb the newlyweds either.

    "Forget it, it''s better if you guys spend more and more time together," said Shui Koshing.

    It had been a while since Shui Xian sat down to talk to his father, so he didn''t hurry to go upstairs. So, both father and son spent some time discussing random things.

    "Xian," called out Shui Koshing.

    "Yes?"

    "Are you happy?"

    Shui Xian looked at his father, "B¨¤, you''ve been asking me the same question every daytely." He took a pause and added, "Do you feel exhrated when I say I am happy?"

    "I do," replied Shui Koshing. "Whenever you say, you''re happy I feel like I''ve aplished something big in life. It feels like I fulfilled my life''s purpose."

    "Stop asking the same question," said Shui Xian. "Can''t you see it yourself that I''m happy?"

    Shui Koshing decided not to continue this topic and asked, "I heard you met Yanjun the other night. Uncle Yang and his wife called me to say congrattions. Also, they said they''d be visiting this weekend. So, make sure you and Raelle are home this Saturday."

    "Alright," replied Shui Xian.

    "When are you nning to announce your marriage?" asked Shui Koshing.

    "It''s up to my wife," said Shui Xian. "I''m okay with whatever she decides."

    Shui Koshing gave a knowing smile as he said, "Aiyo, my son is already wrapped around his wife''s fingers."

    "You can stop teasing me," was Shui Xian''s response. "I''m not the only one in the marriage. She is the other half of this marriage. That''s why her opinion matters as much as mine does. I can''t make any decision on my own when it involves both of us."

    Shui Koshing''s smile became obvious as he said, "Son, you''ve grown up."

    Shui Xian frowned at his father, "You repeatedly reminded me that I''m turning 30 and I should focus on building a family. Howe you only realized that I''ve grown up?"

    "Age has nothing to do with maturity," said Shui Koshing. "Raelle is five years younger than you and yet, she might be more mature than you."

    Shui Xian smiled at his father, "Actually, you''re right. Raelle has a childlike innocence but she is quite mature."

    "Good evening, B¨¤," came Raelle''s voice. "Oh, Hubby!" she called out as she found Shui Xian in the lounge as well. Every day, she would always greet Shui Koshing first thing aftering back home. Who knew today, she''d find her husband here as well.

    "My daughter is home," said Shui Koshing excitedly. "Look, your husband is waiting for you today."

    Raelle also came to sit with them. She looked at Shui Xian and asked, "Howe you''re back early today?"

    "Since you always wait for me, today I decided to wait for you," replied Shui Xian without hesitation.

    Raelle nodded in reply, "It''s good to see you home." Then she leaned against him naturally. His hand was draped over the backrest of the sofa but it slowly shifted over her shoulder as he allowed her to find afortable ce to lean in.

    Shui Xian smiled at her and touched her ears gently as he said, "I didn''t know you''d feel this good to see me home. Seems like I shoulde home earlier than you to wee you."

    "It won''t feel good every day," she replied straightforwardly.

    Shui Koshing chuckled at her response while Shui Xian was left shaking his head at his wife.

    "Elle, how was your day?" asked Shui Koshing.

    "It was fine," replied Raelle. "Nothing special."

    Shui Xian stared at her, "We had lunch together. Wasn''t that special?"

    "It was just lunch," she replied frankly. "Was it supposed to be special?"

    Shui Xian narrowed his eyes at her, "Something is wrong with my brain to actually feel like it was special." He was really cursing himself inwardly to feel touched over something she did so randomly!

    "But it was just lunch," Raelle responded.

    Suddenly Shui Xian thought of something and his eyes lit up. "Wife, aren''t you special?"

    "I am," she replied.

    "Didn''t you say that since I''m your husband, I''m also special?"

    "I did."

    "Then since two special people had lunch together, doesn''t that count as special as well?"

    Raelle stared at him for a minute in silence before she said, "I think you''re trying to fool me." Shui Xian pressed his lips together. "But I don''t mind it. Because I also want to agree with you that the lunch was extra special today for some reason. Maybe it was because I shared it with you."

    Shui Koshing cleared his throat as he stood up saying, "I should really take my leave before my face cramps up from smiling so much."

 Chapter 142 - Choco-nilla Couple

    Lately, Shui Xian loved to eat at home. It wasn''t just with Raelle but also with his father. He couldn''t even remember when was thest time he and his father ate together regrly like they had been doingtely. And mostly, the credit goes to Raelle. She was the one who had to have everyone gather around to eat together.

    Maybe it was because she was used to having her grandfather and Mu Chenyan. And now that they weren''t around, she liked to fill their ces with Shui Xian and Shui Koshing.

    Nevertheless, the meals had gotten lively. The dinner that he used to eat silently in about 10 minutes would take over half an hour now. Talking about their day,ughing over small things, enjoying the food, all seemed like simple things and yet, all of these were bing Shui Xian''s absolute favorite.

    Raelle would always say something that would make the Shui father and son duough out at her adorableness while she''d be left cluelessly staring at them. Shui Xian really believed that it was a blessing to share his meals with family. And absolutely adored these moments.

    After dinner, Shui Koshing went out for a walk around the back garden while Raelle and Shui Xian went upstairs.

    "I got something for you," said Raelle and Xian at the same time as they stared at each other.

    They both paused before saying, "It''s ice cream." Yet again, their voices and words ovepped with each other. In fact, they both had a box of ice cream in their hands that they had been hiding behind their backs.

    Raelle looked at the Vani ice cream in his hands while Shui Xian''s eyes were stuck on the chocte ice cream in her hands as they revealed what they were hiding behind their backs. They both lifted their eyes and looked at each other. Shui Xian''s lips curved up as his eyes sparkled and just for a split second, he thought he saw gentleness sh in her eyes. It was momentary but it was enough to make him feel ted.

    "Why did you buy ice cream?" Both of them asked simultaneously. This time Shui Xian ended up chuckling at how they had been going back and forth with the same words and at the same time. He really found it strange how they both had the same words at their lips.

    "Let me go first," said Raelle and he nodded agreeably allowing her to continue. "You were talking about ice cream in the morning. So, I thought you would like to have some. That''s why I got this for you."

    Shui Xian''s eyes couldn''t conceal his feelings at all. It was a pity that Raelle couldn''t understand the intense emotions swirling in his ever so expressive eyes.

    He hooked his finger and traced the bridge of her nose tenderly as he said, "Since I asked about your preferences in the morning, I was already nning on getting some. How would I know that you''d be thinking the same thing?"

    He didn''t know whether tough at this oue or cry because he found it so endearing. Just because he talked about it in the morning, she got him the ice cream in the evening. Just what exactly was going through that beautiful brain of hers?

    Raelle looked at the ice cream again before saying, "But it''s no big deal. You got Vani, I got chocte. Didn''t you say in the morning that Vani and Chocte are a perfect match?"

    Shui Xian walked up to her and kissed her forehead, "Indeed, these two vors are a perfect match. Just like us."

    "You think we are a perfect match?" she asked looking into his eyes.

    Shui Xian gave a gentle nod as he replied, "Why not? Our vors blend together perfectly. You''re Chocte, I''m Vani. Absolute Chef''s kiss"

    Raelle didn''t say anything. She was contemting about his words. But one couldn''t see what she was thinking from her face at all.

    "Should we sit together to eat this?" he asked and Raelle agreed because she didn''t think there was anything wrong with that suggestion. "Go to the lounge, I''ll bring the ice cream."

    Raelle nodded and left while Shui Xian instructed a maid to scoop out the ice cream for them. As he came back, he found herzing around in the lounge while her eyes were stuck on the tv screen. However, the funny thing was that the tv was turned off. She was just staring at the ck screen as if there was an important program running before her eyes that she didn''t even dare to blink in case she missed out on something.

    "Let''s watch something," said Shui Xian as he came to sit beside her. He took the remote control and turned on the tv. As he was scrolling the channel to find something, he asked, "What do you want to watch?"

    Raelle held Shui Xian''s hand to stop him from changing the channel as she said, "Let''s watch this."

    Shui Xian looked at the channel and looked at her before saying, "Wife, you really want to watch a documentary of deadliest wildlife?" Raelle nodded her head. "Really?" he inquired again emphasizing his words.

    Raelle noticed the change in pitch of his voice and asked, "Is there something wrong with it? It''s informational. Besides, I don''t think you''d be expecting me to watch Doraemon."

    Shui Xian''s eyes widened in surprise as he said, "I was not even expecting that you''d even know about Doraemon."

    "I know that cat very well," replied Raelle. "Hyson used to say he wished to have Doraemon''s ''Anywhere Door''."

    "Oh, why?"

    "He said if he had the ''Anywhere Door'', he''d be able to meet me every day. All he would have to do is open the door and he''d be with me. Quite unrealistic I would say," she stated matter of factly. "That door is clearly defying thews of physics. It''s almost like jumping space and time which is highly unlikely to happen with our current technologies."

    Shui Xian scooped some ice cream and put it into her open mouth saying, "My choco, here eat some vani."

    ** ''Anywhere Door'': For some bizarre reason if someone doesn''t know about Doraemon''s ''Anywhere Door'' then I''ll let you know. It''s a door that can take you to any ce you want to go. All you have to do is, open the door and Vi! You''re already there in the blind of an eye! Quite amazing I''d say. And all Doraemon fans at least once dreamt of having that door. I know, I did.

 Chapter 143 - Tastes Even Better

    Even though the scene on the tv was bloody with animals tearing apart each other, Shui Xian was amazed at how normal his wife found it all. She didn''t feel repulsive eating ice cream with this kind of scene ying before her eyes.

    Shui Xian had never been fond of blood, so he shifted his eyes to look at his wife instead. She was leaning on him again as she continued to eat the ice cream while her eyes were glued to the screen. Although it was difficult to read her expressions, he could tell that she was very interested in this show.

    As usual, a person like her who would read books on quantum theory as a hobby could definitely find wildlife quite intriguing as well. He hade to understand one thing clearly; Anything was possible with his wife!

    And anything meant ''ANYTHING!''

    Seeing how she had distractedly smeared some ice cream on her nose, he chuckled before wiping it off with the pad of his thumb. Only that movement made Raelle''s eyes move from the tv screen as she looked at him. Shui Xian had naturally put the thumb into his own mouth without really thinking about his action.

    However, while doing so, he missed the flicker in Raelle''s eyes. She intentionally put some more ice cream on the tip of her nose and Shui Xian shook his head at her with a smile before he again wiped it off. But just as he was about to lick the ice cream off of his thumb pad, Raelle held his hand and under his watchful eyes, she brought his thumb to her mouth. Shui Xian gulped as he saw her lips parting slowly before she put his thumb into her mouth and her hot, wet, tantalizing tongue slowly licked.

    Shui Xian felt like cursing out but he held himself back. He didn''t know whether she was licking his thumb or the ice cream on it. But he was certain that she was slowly sucking his soul in.

    "It''s my ice cream," she said as she blinked at him innocently. "I should have it, no?"

    Shui Xian licked his lips and felt thirsty. Oh, he was really thirsty now.

    "You did that on purpose," he groaned almost painfully.

    "What did I do?" she inquired seemingly not understanding his meaning at all.

    For a second, even Shui Xian nked out trying to figure out whether to believe her words or her actions. Because both were contradictory. Her actions were clearly seducing him but her words sounded so innocent.

    "I just realized," he said. "We both are in fact like the vors of ice cream we brought."

    "What do you mean?" asked Raelle. This time, she certainly didn''t know what he meant.

    "I''m like vani; in, dull, and conventional." He poked her cheek as he went on, "You on the other hand are like chocte; dark, mysterious, adventurous, andpletely unconventional!"

    "Mysterious?" echoed Raelle. "What''s mysterious about me? I''m just as I seem."

    "And that is what adds to the mystery of you," said Shui Xian. "You show and say everything without hesitation. You don''t hesitate before acting on what''s on your mind either. There are hardly people who have the same thoughts as what they have on their lips. But you''re different. Your thoughts and your words are in sync. That makes you dangerous and it adds the mystery of its own as well."

    "Have you been looking at me so intently because all of this was running through your mind?" asked Raelle. Even though her eyes were on the tv screen, she could still feel his gaze on herself. There was no way around it. She was used to having people stare at her all the time. It didn''t affect her anymore.

    "No, I was looking at you because I felt like doing it," he replied honestly. He didn''t think there was a need to hide his thoughts from her. Since she liked to talk out her thoughts so bluntly, he had to match her pace and style as well.

    Raelle shifted and sat on hisp with her face towards him. Both her legs were folded on each side of his body. cing her hand on his chest, she asked, "Why?"

    He rubbed his face against the side of her neck as he said, "Because I don''t find documentary as interesting as my wife."

    "Oh," she said before she ced her hands on each side of his face and made him look at her. "Then how about you let me look at you as well? Because I certainly like this face."

    "Wife, you''re such a face-con that I''m afraid if you found someone more handsome than me, you might leave me," he let out his grievance before her.

    "That won''t happen," she replied matter-of-factly.

    "Are you that certain?" he asked raising his brow at her.

    "I''m extremely certain," she answered without exining why she thought so.

    However, he didn''t need an exnation when the one to say those words was Raelle. Because when it came to her, he just ended up believing in her words. It was just that simple. There was always something about the way she spoke that made his heart inexplicably believe in her.

    "I''m satisfied just listening to your words," he told her and gave her a smile. "Now, shall we go to the room?"

    "Let me taste some ice cream," she said.

    "But you already finished i-," before he could even continue, she smacked her lips on his. At such close proximity, he stared into her eyes as her tongue swept into his mouth dominantly taking control of the kiss.

    "Yours tastes even better," she said against his lips as her eyes bore into his.

    Shui Xian smiled at her words. Even though they ate the same ice cream, she still had to make it sound so... romantic? He was doubtful about what word to use to describe this feeling. After all, romantic really didn''t feel like something she''d do.

    "Hold tight," he said before he ced his hands on her round buttocks and stood up abruptly. Raelle ended up wrapping her arms around his neck along with her legs wrapped around his waist. "Let''s see whose ice cream tasted better," were his words before he savored the taste of her mouth trying to quench the thirst that she had evoked.

 Chapter 144 - Wants You

    The two of them weretching onto each other. They were embracing each other passionately as their lips moved slowly against each other. There was no hurry in their movements. Shui Xian didn''t even have to tug at her lower lip before she granted him the entrance to her mouth. This time, their tongues didn''t fight for dominance. They both just continued to feel the taste of the other, slowly savoring it.

    His hands that were cupping her buttock moved slowly making a sound escape from Raelle''s throat but that didn''t stop her from ravishing him as he did to her. One of his hands went up to her hair, keeping her head locked to him. They both needed to catch a breath but they both weren''t willing to pull away first either.

    Raelle could already feel his hard erection pressing against her heart. It didn''t make her blush. Instead, it made her want to press him closer to her core. She couldn''t describe the feeling of arousal so she could only follow her instincts and pull him closer to let him know what she needed.

    He pulled back a little and his eyes held her victim as they breathed heavily against each other, out of breath, "...Wife, I thought you had patience."

    "Do you want me to be patient?" she questioned. Her tone of voice had changed because of how breathless she was from that kiss. Her lips trailed along with his wet ones, looking up at him through her longshes. She bit his lip as she said, "Besides when I know what I want, why should I be patient?"

    "Raelle..." He dragged out her name in desire. This was the first time he called out her name.

    Soon, her back hit the soft mattress and he slowly crawled between her legs, spreading them apart while his mouth moved against hers harshly. His hands slid under her shirt and let his hands brush against her soft skin. She sat slightly upright as she pulled the shirt over her head and his eyes were stuck to her.

    Their chest heaved as Raelle noticed his eyes that were wandering around her upper body. He let out a guttural groan as he said, "You''re spellbinding me."

    And then pressed another heated kiss on her lips. Raelle took the initiative to move her hips against his. Her pelvis met his obvious hardness. He reached behind to unhook her bra with just one hand.

    His calloused fingers slowly trailed down the straps down her shoulder. As the material slipped down her skin, her bosom was finally exposed before his eyes that had been turning a shade darker.

    His one hand came to cup her breasts gently as he hummed under his breath, "Now, it''s my turn to taste."

    Raelle watched as his mouth instantly fell on her aroused bud. She let out a moan that she couldn''t hold back as she felt his hot mouth on her skin. Her chest arched up as if asking for him to continue as he rolled her nipples, and sucked on them.

    Raelle could tell something was shooting from her nipples directly down to her core but she couldn''t tell what it was. However, now she wasn''t unfamiliar with this feeling at all. She always felt it when his soft lips attacked her skin. Although she couldn''t describe it, she named it the desire. The desire she had for him.

    Even when the pad of his thumb brushed against her nipple, it made her want to moan out. Because her nipples had turned sensitive, just a slight touch was enough to make her body react. He kissed up the valley of her breasts, kissed along her neck gently till he finally reached her lips.

    And while his lips moved along her lips again, his hand tugged down her trousers. As he discarded the garment somewhere, his lips made a trail of kisses down from navel towards her panties.

    He slowly and gently nted a kiss on her inner thigh. Slowly, the kissing alternated between his teeth nipping at her skin. His finger hooked around her panties, ying with the band but he didn''t make a move to tug them down. Instead, he looked up and called out in a husky voice, "Raelle..."

    "Hmm..." she hummed in reply as she supported her body on her elbows and looked into his eyes.

    Shui Xian''s pupils dted as he noticed the look in her eyes. There was sheer and naked desire swirling in her orbs. There was no disguise.

    He sucked in a breath as he asked, "Tell me, what you want?"

    Raelle continued to stare at his face while his fingers continued to y with the band of her panties, teasing her. She could feel the touch of his rough fingers on the skin that made her want more.

    "I want whatever you can offer," she replied without hesitation. "Because my body definitely wants you."

    Shui Xian momentarily paused before his lips curved up in a wide grin. He nted a kiss on her heated and wet core. Even though there was ayer of fabric between them, Raelle still felt it.

    "I love this honest mouth of yours," he told her before he slowly trailed the underwear down her long legs.

    He nuzzled into her core making her arch her hips slightly off of the soft mattress. He hummed out in satisfaction. He still had to say that her body was even more honest than her mouth. Whether it was her desire deriving her or it was the pleasure she seeks, her body won''t shy away from any of it.

    Whether she knew what she wanted or not knew what she wanted, her body certainly knew what she wanted. And he loved it how she sought the carnal pleasure. Maybe it was her naked desire that worked as a tugging force to pull him in. Whether there was a meaning behind this feeling or not, he certainly knew one thing that he loved her touch.

    He loved the feeling of her skin against his. He loved how it felt. He loved how every single part of her seemed to be pulling him in. He didn''t know where this maic attraction would lead him but he was intrigued to find out. He was intrigued to find out where she could take him.

 Chapter 145 - Celebration

    "Block C... Empire Apartments..." Cloe muttered to herself as she looked at the address on her phone screen and looked at the apartment building before her.

    She used the ess card to walk through the automatic ss doors and walked in. The security was quite strict in these apartments. One couldn''t enter unless one had an ess card. And the ess card was granted to only the residents of the building. She had heard that since only high profile people lived in this building, privacy had always been taken quite seriously.

    Fortunately, her boss had given her the ess card before sending her here to run an errand for her.

    She even had to use the ess card to use the elevator. As the elevator door opened with a ''ding'', she stepped out. There were only two units on each floor, she looked at 1801 and checked the address on her cell phone once again before she pressed the doorbell and waited patiently.

    Currently, she was holding a box of cake and some balloons in her hands. And to be honest, she didn''t even know for whom she was bringing this all. However, she was quite curious to know.

    Earlier when Raelle left the office, she took her with her. Raelle had asked to go to a shop to buy this cake. And since Raelle had taken the initiative to buy this herself, she was all the more curious to know about the identity of the person who was about to receive this surprise. After all, not just anyone could make Raelle Xiang take some time out of her busy schedule, and that too just to choose a cake.

    This was too inconceivable to Cloe.

    She was about to ring the doorbell again when the door was pushed open and the face that appeared before her made her mouth open wide.

    "Oh!" she pointed at Hyson''s face. "It''s you!"

    Hyson ruffled his slightly damp hair and stared at her in surprise but he still managed to keep his sunny smile on his face, "Hello, Cloe!"

    Cloe clutched her chest with her free hand and said, "Don''t attack me like that with that smile. It''s dangerous for my old and rusty heart."

    "Old and rusty?" echoed Hyson in amusement at her reaction.

    "It''s been too long since my heart had beat wildly for someone, even a car gets rusty if it''s left for too long. This is my heart. Cold, old, empty, and obviously very rusty."

    Hyson chuckled at her as he pushed the door open even wider and moved aside saying, "Don''t just stand there. Come inside."

    Cloe didn''t even take a minute before she rushed up inside. Her star crush was calling her in. Any fangirl would die to be where she was right now. How could she even bear to refuse him? Only an idiot would not take this chance!

    She suddenly had the urge to go and kiss Raelle! That boss of hers really knew how to cheer her up. She actually gave her the address to her idol''s home. This... Is this a dream?

    She pinched her wrist, "Ouch!"

    "What''s wrong?" asked Hyson with concern when he heard her hiss in pain.

    Cloe smiled at him, "Oh, it''s nothing. I just can''t believe I met you here."

    "You didn''t know you''d be seeing me?" inquired Hyson as he raised his brow at her in question.

    Cloe shook her head, "Nope. My Chief only told me to follow her instructions and deliver something important." She suddenly remembered why she was here and extended the box of cake and balloons towards him. "Chief sent this for you."

    Hyson eyed the things in her hand for a minute before he took it and said, "Thanks. And I apologize on Ellie''s behalf. She made youe all the way here. Your working hours are even over now."

    Cloe shook her hands, "No, no. It''s alright. You don''t have to apologize. Before Chief got married, my working hours were even worse. She always used to say if she as the chairperson can work till 10 o''clock, how can I as a Vice General Manager be sozy? I''ve long gotten used to it."

    Hyson still looked at her apologetically and led her inside the apartment. Cloe''s eyes wandered around. It was quite a spacious apartment with three bedrooms and two living rooms. Cloe didn''t expect it to be so clean though. And she had a feeling that he didn''t live here alone.

    "Please, have a seat," said Hyson. He also ced the box of cake on the coffee table and kneeled down on the carpet to open it carefully while he asked Cloe, "What do you want to drink? We only have water and soft drinks."

    "No beer?" she asked in horror.

    Hyson looked up at her and held back hisughter at her expression as he told her, "No beer. The one who likes to drink isn''t here these days. Anyway, we have tea but I don''t know how to make it. Sorry."

    "I don''t dare ask you to make me tea," said Cloe. "What if your fans strangled me knowing that I dared to consume the tea made by their precious idol''s precious hands?"

    Hyson chuckled softly and looked down at the cake. He pulled it out of the box and smiled as his eyes softened up. It was a butter cake with lemon icing. He was about to taste the icing when he noticed there was a piece of paper inside the cake box. He frowned slightly and took it out. As soon as he unfolded it, Raelle''s neat and clean handwriting appeared before his eyes.

    <i>''You did well.''</i>

    Just these three words were written on the paper but as soon as he read those words, Hyson felt like a gush of warmth spreading inside his heart.

    Because those three words were enough for Hyson to know what was on Raelle''s mind. She clearly meant it didn''t matter whether he passed the audition or not. What mattered was that he did his best and he did well.

    And this cake was a reminder that he needed to celebrate it. He needed to celebrate this new step he took in his life. Hyson didn''t even realize when a sheen of moisture appeared in his eyes. This best friend of his really knew how to attack the softest part of his heart and make him speechless with such gestures.

 Chapter 146 - Muah! Muah!

    "Are you going to cry?"

    Hyson lifted his eyes when he heard Cloe''s question and nced at her before shaking his head softly. "I don''t cry that easily."

    "Your eyes are glistening with tears, don''t tell me the dust got into your eyes," said Cloe.

    "It''s because my heart is feeling warm," he told her. "But just because I''m feeling touched, I won''t cry."

    Cloe looked at his face carefully before she said, "Exactly what did my Chief write to make you feel so touched." Hyson showed her the note without hesitation and her expressions changed, "Just those three words? And you''re this touched?"

    "You won''t understand it," said Hyson knowingly.

    "That''s true. Raelle Xiang''s brain circuit is wired differently. It''s impossible for me to understand her," said Cloe. "I neither understand my parents, nor my Chief''s motherboard."

    Hyson let out augh. "Her motherboard sure makes people crazy." He stood up and walked over to the open kitchen. He picked up utensils beforeing back to her side.

    While he cut a piece of cake for her, she asked, "Are you living here alone?"

    "Nope," just as Hyson said so, the door behind him opened and a tall man walked out. Hyson didn''t even turn his head around as he called out, "Wen Ge, do you want to eat some cake?"

    Fang Yiwen gave a cursory nce to Cloe and turned towards the kitchen as he said, "Did you pass the audition?"

    "Not yet," replied Hyson.

    "Then what are you celebrating?" asked Fang Yiwen as he opened the fridge and took out a water bottle. He unscrewed the cap and pulled out a chair to sit before he drank the water.

    "This was my very first audition," said Hyson. "A new beginning. That''s what I''m celebrating."

    Fang Yiwen chuckled at him, "You sure know how to find a reason to stay happy."

    Hyson grinned in reply as he said, "The women in my life only taught me how to be happy. As my best friend says tears are salty and it only suits salty people. I''m the sweet one, tears are not to my taste."

    "You''re Fang Yiwen?" Cloe had been staring at him since the time he walked out of the room. But she just couldn''t recognize him. "I almost got confused because of your ck hair. What happened to that beautiful silvery hair?"

    "Aiya, I told you Wen Ge. You look really different with this hair color."

    "This isn''t that bad," said Fang Yiwen.

    "You didn''t look this white in the photocards but in person, you''re so white that I''m taken aback,"mented Cloe with her eyes still on Fang Yiwen.

    "Wen Ge doesn''t even go out to bask in sun, obviously, he is too white!" said Hyson. As if recalling something, he looked at Fang Yiwen, "Wen Ge, won''t you ask who she is?"

    Fang Yiwen rubbed his eyes tiredly as he replied, "If she isn''t your girlfriend, there is no point in asking."

    "How can you say she isn''t my girlfriend?" questioned Hyson.

    Fang Yiwen looked between Cloe and Hyson before shaking his head, "Intuition."

    Cloe tugged at Hyson''s sleeve and asked, "Can I take a photo with him?"

    "He''s been burning the midnight oil for days, it''s better if you don''t take a photo with him in this condition," advice Hyson. "But you can get an autograph for now. You can take a photo with him another time. It''s not he''ll run away."

    Cloe rummaged through her purse and took out a small diary. She took the pen and diary to Fang Yiwen along with the piece of cake that Hyson had ced before her. Like a devoted fan, she ced it before him and smiled, "Mr. Fang, can I get an autograph?"

    Fang Yiwen found it amusing. She was dressed up like a sophisticated and mature woman. It was obvious from the way she carried herself that she was a sessful career woman and one who had a higher position as well. But currently, her sparkling eyes were no different than those teen girls who ran around them asking for autographs or photos.

    He took the diary from her but the page before him wasn''t a nk one. He was about to turn the page when something caught his eye.

    "Who is Raelle and why do you hate her so much?"

    Cloe''s eyes widened and she hurriedly flipped the page saying whileughing awkwardly, "Sorry! Wrong page."

    Hyson turned to look at her with raised brows, "You hate my best friend?"

    "I can exin," said Cloe. "It''s a very different kind of hate. More like a love-hate rtionship."

    "You don''t have to be so nervous," said Hyson. "I already know about that list."

    "She told you about it as well?" Cloe was surprised by this information. Wasn''t it enough that Raelle knew about it, why did she have to share it with Hyson as well?

    "It mighte as a surprise but she shares everything with me," said Hyson feeling proud of himself.

    "I can''t believe you''re feeling proud," remarked Cloe.

    "There you go, Miss Cloe," said Fang Yiwen as he gave her diary back to her.

    "You can just call me Cloe, we are of the same age."

    "Oh," responded Fang Yiwen. "Then since you''re close to our Xiao Fai, you can just call me Yiwen as well. It was nice meeting you." Saying that he stood up with the te of cake and walked back towards his room.

    "Wen Ge, go to sleep after eating that."

    "If I gained weight because of eating this, I''m gonna make you face Zhen Ge," said Fang Yiwen before he closed the door and locked himself in his room again making Hyson sigh at him.

    "He really isn''t an outgoing person?" asked Cloe. "I thought that cold and aloof vampire-like persona of his was just an image created by yourpany."

    "No, that''s the real him," replied Hyson. "He is kind of an introvert. Anyway,e here and give me somepany in eating this cake."

    Cloe happily skipped her way to him and sat down to eat with him. Since Cloe was a curious fan, she had a lot to talk about. That''s why she ended up spending over an hour with Hyson.

    And even when she was leaving, she was reluctant to do so. In the end, she had to leave. Hyson saw her off at the door.

    While Cloe was waiting for the elevator, she took out her phone and instantly clicked on Raelle''s contact detail. Seeing the time, she didn''t call her but instead, she sent her a voice message, "Chief, the task is done. Your cake and your feelings have been delivered." The door to the elevator opened and without even lifting her head, she continued to record the voice message, "Also, Chief, did I mention that I love you? If I didn''t, let me proim this love today. With each passing day, the intensity of this love is growing more and more. Muah! Muah! You''re the best!"

    She didn''t even notice that someone had been in the elevator who got off the same floor, she got in. And all her antics were seen by that person as well.

 Chapter 147 - What Raelle Xiang Likes...

    Standing before the mirror, Shui Xian''s eyes were once again drawn towards the bite mark right under his corbone. That could be considered as his wife''s work of art. Not like he wasining though.

    Just one nce was enough to make him recall the madness ofst night and he licked his lips. His lips curved into a beautiful arc as he buttoned up his shirt. Last night was truly intense and he was surprised at himself as he remembered how he lost his control under her enticing gaze. Although Raelle''s hands moved innocently around his body, she sure knew how to set fire with a simple touch.

    "Wifey," he called out as he fixed his tie and walked into the room.

    Raelle was currently arranging the documents when she looked up at him, "Yes, Hubby?"

    Shui Xian opened his mouth and literally forgot what he was about to say. Why did he call her? And why did she have to answer in such a way? He shook his head to clear his thoughts and took a deep breath.

    "I just realized something about you," he said.

    "What is it?" she asked as she walked over to him.

    "You have a thing for biting," he told her.

    Raelle''s hands went up to his tie and she fixed it as she replied, "Biting?"

    "Whenever we do it, you always bite me," he said as his eyes were focused on her face while her eyes were glued to his tie. "It makes me think what I heard before was right."

    Raelle didn''t put her hand down but instead, she ced her hand over his chest as she looked into his eyes and asked, "What did you hear?"

    "Ady on the streets and a freak under the sheets," he answered as he brushed the bridge of her nose with her finger. "It really is said for someone like you."

    Raelle nodded her head slowly before saying, "But we weren''t in the sheetsst night."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips to hold himself fromughing at her face. He was waiting for such a reply from her. It sounded amazing!

    "That''s also true," he said as he looked at her walking away. While he picked up his coat, he noticed how she turned on herptop and sat down to work on something. Wasn''t she just packing it? Why did she suddenly decide to work? "What are you doing?"

    Raelle didn''t move her eyes away from the screen as she replied, "You can see for yourself."

    Since Shui Xian was curious, he moved beside her and nced at theptop screen which left him dumbfounded. On the screen was a document that read...

    ''What Raelle Xiang Likes?

    24: Hubby noticed Raelle likes to bite during sex.''

    Shui Xian blinked his eyes repeatedly in hope that maybe his eyes were ying a joke on him. That was not something anyone would record in a file on theirputers!

    "Wife..." just that one word and he really was struggling to find the rest of that sentence. "What is this?"

    Raelle tilted her head and looked at him, "This is the list of things that people say I like. Before today, I didn''t know that I like biting. You are the one who let me know this." While Shui Xian was just gazing at her in silence, she went on, "Just like Hyson once pointed out that I like watching horror movies. And also how Cloe pointed out that I like to take on challenges. I have it all noted down here."

    Shui Xian contemted her words in silence before he said, "You''re trying to learn about your likes and dislikes through people around you?"

    "Yes," she answered. "It''s an unconscious reaction and oftentimes, I might not even notice it. That''s why it''s good to have people who can point out such small details to me."

    Shui Xian nodded his head at her in understanding before he stood up, "Let''s go down now."

    Raelle also nodded her head and turned off herptop before packing it in the bag. Shui Xian took both of their stuff and went downstairs while Raelle followed him down. They both greeted Shui Koshing who was reading the newspaper at the breakfast table as per his morning routine. The breakfast was yet to be served since they came down earlier than usual today.

    Seeing that they both settled down on their seats, Shui Koshing put down the newspaper and ced a key card before them.

    "What''s this?" asked Shui Xian to his father.

    "This is the key to your new house," replied Shui Koshing. "I have already arranged everything for you both there."

    "New house?" echoed Raelle. "Are we moving? Why?"

    Shui Koshing smiled at her gently, "It''s kind of a tradition that newlyweds will move into their own ce to build their love nest." He took a pause and added, "It''s a condo I got in the best location for you both. It''s closer to both your workces. The security is top-notch. The ambiance is great as well!"

    Shui Xian was frowning at his father''s decision and just as he opened his mouth to say something, his wife spoke up.

    "You''re not going with us?" asked Raelle.

    Hearing her question, Shui Xian leaned back in his chair and rxed. His wife was enough to deal with his father. He had all the more faith in her. Without him realizing it, he had be quite fond of her persuasion skills.

    Shui Koshing smiled at her, "Why would an old man go and ruin your fun? I''m fine where I am."

    "If you''re not going..." Raelle paused momentarily before adding, "Are you kicking us out of the house?"

    Shui Xian''s lips curved up in a wide grin when he noticed the expression of his father. Serves you right, old man! Who told you to talk nonsense?!

    "Daughter, how can I kick you out of your own home?" asked Shui Koshing. "This will forever be your home. You''re my daughter-inw, you''re my son''s wife. You have as much right to live here as my son and me."

    "Then we are not going anywhere," replied Raelle straightforwardly. "If it''s my home, I don''t want to go anywhere else."

    "I just want to give you both some privacy as a couple," said Shui Koshing.

    "We have more than enough privacy," replied Raelle. "We are not moving unless youe with us. When I came to this home, you told me we are a family now. You said you''ll be like a father to me. Then as a father, you shouldn''t try to distance yourself from your daughter."

    Shui Xian looked at his wife proudly while Shui Koshing''s eyes moistened up a little and he nodded his head. He really had no words when she said her piece in such a way. What could one possibly say in reply to her words?

 Chapter 148 - Sour Taste

    Hearing Raelle''s determination, Shui Koshing could never bring up the discussion of changing homes again. He was more than happy to have his son and his daughter-inw apany him. He wanted nothing more than to have his family with him. He was just being considerate. And to be honest, he was used to living without his son but parting from this adorable daughter-inw... He was rather reluctant. And yet he had brought up the proposal of changing homes.

    However, that was only because he had prepared the marriage house even before the marriage. It was just that the interior work justpleted and that''s why he took out the keys only now.

    But after that one time, he couldn''t bring up the topic again. He did give them the keys saying that they could spend a day or two there whenever they felt like it. But he left the decision up to them.

    The few days after that were quite uneventful. But on this particr day, as Raelle was reading the documents in her hands, a red blotch dyed the document in her hand.

    "Chief," called Cloe who had been sitting with her studying the documents as well. "Don''t move! Let me call the doctor!" Cloe hurriedly looked for her phone, wanting to call the doctor when Raelle tapped her hand with her pen.

    "It''s just a paper cut, do you have to react like this?" questioned Raelle while she looked at the blood oozing out of the cut. And then her eyes moved to the ring red mark of blood on the documents before her. "Get me a new copy of the documents that just got stained."

    Cloe would normally do as she was told but currently, she ran out and only brought back a first-aid kit. She sat down beside Raelle and cleaned the cut on her index finger carefully before applying the ointment and wrapping a band-aid on it.

    During this whole process, Raelle didn''t even bother telling her off. She knew Cloe won''t listen since she had orders from her grandfather to take care of her health. But she honestly didn''t think a paper cut was something to worry about.

    "Be careful," said Cloe in a stern voice.

    "Okay," replied Raelle, and Cloe was left stunned by her agreeing so easily. "Now, are you gonna bring the new copy of the documents or not? You''re leading the project and yet I''m willing to help you with it. But if you continued to waste my time like this, I might have to reconsider."

    Cloe was startled by her blunt threat. "I''ll bring the new copy!"

    <i><strong>*Ring!*</strong></i>

    Just as Cloe was about to walk out, she heard an unfamiliar ringtone. She stopped at the door and looked around. Clearly, there were only two people here; She and Raelle. Then where did this new ringtone wasing from?

    "Did you change your ringtone?" asked Cloe. Raelle looked up at her as if saying,<i> ''You think I''ll bother to do that?''</i> Cloe understood it immediately and nodded, "That''s right. It''s troublesome for you." She checked her pockets and frowned, "But I left my phone in my office." She walked towards Raelle''s desk and found the phone that had been ringing. "It''s yours!"

    Cloe looked at the caller id and frowned before bringing the phone to Raelle.

    She took the phone and paused. The caller id read, ''Ruan''. Definitely, she had no clue about who this person was. But she still took the call and waved her hand to tell Cloe to leave.

    Just as Raelle put the phone against her ear, a sickly sweet voice could be heard, "Shui Xian, Mr. Han wants to invite us out for lunch. You know how important this discussion is, so I was hoping you''d join us as well."

    Raelle suddenly came to understand why she was receiving this call.

    "It seems you''ll have to go on that lunch all alone," replied Raelle as she leaned back in her seatnguidly.

    "Who is speaking?" came the very obvious question from the other side. But Raelle didn''t even realize how much her voice had shaken the other person. "Isn''t this Shui Xian''s phone?" asked Ruan Meilin trying to hold back her anxiousness.

    "This certainly is Shui Xian''s phone," replied Raelle. "But today, it is with me."

    "And who are you?" Ruan Meilin''s voice got a little sharper and panicky. "Why do you have his phone with you?"

    "And why do you think I''ll give you an answer?" retorted Raelle. "However, I can tell you that Xian certainly can''t have lunch with you." She didn''t wait for Ruan Meilin to speak as she continued, "I''ll convey your message to him but just as I said, he won''t be going anywhere with you." Just like that, Raelle hung up the call and looked up at Cloe who just came back.

    "That isn''t your phone," Cloe pointed out.

    Raelle nodded her head, "Yes, it''s my husband''s. In the morning, I must have taken the wrong one."

    "I never thought I''d see the day I''d see you making a mistake that only normal people do, like me," said Cloe straightforwardly.

    Raelle shrugged her shoulders indifferently, "He and I have the same phone model in the same color. Even our lock screen has the same photo. It''s an honest mistake." And while saying so, she even showed Cloe the lock screen picture which happened to be Raelle and Shui Xian''s hands showing their wedding rings.

    Cloe patted her chest and looked away while saying, "I''m just d to see that a freak like you has days like these." Her eyes widened as she realized she had said her thoughts out loud and smiled at Raelle awkwardly.

    Raelle didn''t react to her words, she instead told her, "My husband also thinks I''m a freak. But he said all geniuses are freaks."

    Cloe''s lips twitched at her remark, "Did you just brag that you''re a genius?"

    Raelle shook her head mechanically, "No, I bragged how my husband is astute enough to read his wife so well."

    Cloe cleared her throat and made a face as if she ate something wrong. Shaking her head, she said, "Why do I feel like there is a sour taste in the air?"

 Chapter 149 - Take Care

    Obviously, Raelle couldn''t understand that the sourness that Cloe could taste was actually because of how much Raelle was seemingly showing off her rtionship with her husband. Although it was subtle, for someone reclusive and indifferent like Raelle Xiang, even this much subtle change was shocking enough.

    "Didn''t I send you to bring a new copy of the documents?"

    Cloe looked towards the door and frowned, "I told my assistant to get the new print out. I don''t know why he is taking so long." Although she was still acting as Raelle''s assistant, her official position was still Vice General Manager. It''d be weird if she didn''t have an assistant of her own. In fact, she had three assistants. In that aspect, she was better than Raelle who only had one assistant.

    "It seems your assistant iszier than mine," said Raelle in a deadpanned manner.

    Cloe nodded her head, "It seems so." But suddenly she paused and looked at her boss, "Chief, I''m your assistant."

    "I know," replied Raelle.

    "That means you called me the zier'' one?"

    "Of course," responded Raelle.

    "Chief, did you just criticize me?"

    Raelle merely lifted her eyes to look at her as she said, "I don''t do troublesome things like criticizing. I was merely stating a fact."

    Cloe snorted, "Indeed! Whatever you say is a fact!"

    "I absolutely agree with that."

    Cloe gaped at her boss, not knowing what to say to her. Was there even a point in arguing when she knew that Raelle would find a way to jab her with her so-called ''facts''? In the end, the one to get brutally attacked would be her. And she didn''t like throwing herself before the sharp tip of the sword that was also known as Raelle''s eloquence!

    She took a deep breath and said, "And here I thought today is my lucky day."

    "And what really made you believe today is your lucky day?" inquired Raelle as she put down the phone.

    Cloe got excited as she told her, "In the morning, I found two seasoning packets inside my instant noodles." Sheughed out, "That was a sign that today was bound to be a good day for me." Before Raelle could ruin her mood, Cloe went on, "I know you don''t believe in superstitions but please, you don''t have to always throw cold water on my passionate self. It''s a harmless belief, but it''s keeping me hopeful for the day. Please, don''t take that from me!"

    Raelle swallowed back her words of reproach and asked, "But is it really unusual to get two seasonings inside the instant noodle packet?"

    Cloe nodded her head vigorously, "It''s extremely rare! You tell me, have you ever gotten this lucky?"

    Raelle tucked her hair behind her ear saying, "I have never tried instant noodles, how would I know if I''m lucky?" That was enough to remind Cloe that indeed, her boss would never eat something like instant noodles. "Yanyan says, instant noodlesck the right amount of nutrients."

    Cloe sighed out, "Well, you have a chef who will personally make the dough then roll the noodles for you. But people like me can only survive on instant noodles when they are beingzy."

    There was a knock at the door and she knew it must be her assistant, so she went over to get the documents. Meanwhile, Raelle held Shui Xian''s phone in her hand again and contemted whether to call her own number to reach her husband or not? Since she was carrying his phone it was only right for her to inform him about the call he received.

    And just as she was about to unlock his phone, another call came and she ended up picking the call identally.

    "Xian!"

    Even before she ced the phone against her phone, she could hear the voice of the man from the other side. And seeing the called id, she didn''t hesitate to ce the phone against her ear but didn''t say anything or more like the person on the other end, didn''t even give her the chance to say anything.

    "Are you upset that I didn''t keep my promise?" The person on the other side asked in a slightly awkward manner. "But it wasn''t intentional. I really wanted to invite you and Raelle out for dinner but..." He paused briefly and frowned to himself, "Hey! Why are you so quiet?"

    "Maybe because you''re not giving me an opening to join this conversation?" retorted Raelle calmly.

    The person on the other side was slightly taken aback and even checked the contact details on his screen before he continued to ask, "Raelle?"

    "Hello, Mr. Zhai!" replied Raelle.

    Zhai Yanjun sighed out as he said, "Should I even bother asking why you have your husband''s phone with you?"

    "I have a motto," began Raelle. "One should definitely stay away from bothersome things."

    Zhai Yanjun chuckled softly at her reply and nodded to himself, "Indeed. There is nothing wrong with you having Xian''s phone. But since he isn''t around, I''ll just talk to my dearest sister-inw." He took a moment to add, "So, how are you doing?"

    "Definitely better than you," replied Raelle making Zhai Yanjun choke on his own saliva.

    "You really..." He didn''t know what to say to her so he ended up sighing out, "But it''s true. You must be doing better than me. You''re sitting inside your luxurious office while here I''m suffering under the scorching hot sun."

    "Are youining, Mr. Soldier?" asked Raelle.

    "I never had anyints regarding my duty," replied Zhai Yanjun resolutely. "Forget it. I won''t discuss this with you. Just know that I''d keep my promise and take you both husband and wife for that meal."

    "Sure," answered Raelle not finding him as dislikable as she originally did.

    "It was a pleasant surprise to talk to you like this," said Zhai Yanjun with a smile on his lips. "Have a good day. And hopefully, we''ll be seeing each other soon."

    "Mr. Soldier," called out Raelle. "Take care of yourself out there."

    Zhai Yanjun was stunned with his eyes opened when he heard Raelle''s words.

    "Now, I''m gonna hang up," saying that Raelle didn''t even wait for his reply before she hung up the call.

 Chapter 150 - My Wife

    Shui Xian was rather in a good mood since the morning today because it happened to be Friday. For someone like him who had gotten ustomed to working all week long over the years, it was really a surprise when he realized he had been looking forward to the weekend. Unconsciously, he was eager for this week to end so that he could spend all day and night with his wife.

    And since he was looking forward to something, it served as a motivation to work.

    Suddenly, the door of his office was pushed open and he heard the tic-toc of high heels as Ruan Meilin strode inside with an anxious look on her face. She tried to calm herself as she faced Shui Xian and asked, "Shui Xian, where is your phone?"

    Shui Xian pointed at the phone that was ced on the desk but was forgotten since this morning.

    "Earlier, I gave you a call but a woman answered the phone," said Ruan Meilin as her eyes continued to observe Shui Xian''s expression.

    Shui Xian''s brows furrowed up slightly and he picked up his phone to check. But just as he unlocked the phone and looked at the wallpaper, he instantly knew this wasn''t his phone. He suddenly had a realization, his phone got exchanged with his wife''s. No wonder, he thought it was weird how quiet his phone had been since this morning.

    Shui Xian had managed to change the lock screen photo on Raelle''s phone to match his own but her wallpaper was still the default one.

    He didn''t show any of his feelings on his face as he asked, "Why did you call?" He didn''t feel like exining to her why his phone was answered by a woman and who exactly was that woman. He didn''t think the woman before him was important enough to learn anything about his wife.

    Although Ruan Meilin wanted to ask him directly about who that woman was, she still refrained from doing so. Instead, she told him, "Mr. Han wanted to have lunch with us. So, I wanted us to go together."

    "Not going," he answered straightforwardly.

    "Shui Xian, can you put aside your personal feelings?" Ruan Meilin''s voice had a pleading undertone. "The lunch is for our business deal."

    "If it was about personal feelings, you wouldn''t be the Vice President here," responded Shui Xian in a monotonous manner.

    Ruan Meilin''s lips trembled a little. She bit her lower lip to stop herself from showing her weakness. Her hand clutched the back of the chair that was before her.

    "Are you having lunch with that woman who picked up the call?" Shui Xian lifted his eyes and looked at her inquisitively. "She said you won''t be having lunch with me. Since she sounded so certain, I assume you are gonna have lunch with her."

    Shui Xian''s eyes shifted and for a moment, he really couldn''t hide the sparkle in his eyes. He really didn''t think Raelle would say something like that. But then again, she had a straightforward and blunt personality, there was a high chance this was something only she could say.

    Shui Xian didn''t even have to think as he said, "I am having lunch with her. In fact, I''ll be having dinner with her and spending my night with her. Is that a clear enough answer for you?" Since his wife decided he won''t be having lunch with anyone else, how could he say otherwise?

    Ruan Meilin was stunned by his reply but she tried tough it off as a joke as she said, "You still don''t know how to joke around."

    "Do you and I have a rtionship where I''d joke around with you?" retorted Shui Xian. In fact, he intentionally lifted his left hand to rub his chin. It was his way of showing off his wedding ring that was wrapped around his ring finger proudly as a symbol of his marriage with Raelle.

    It wasn''t like Ruan Meilin couldn''t see the ring, she just had been unwilling to believe that it was a wedding ring. But deep down, she also knew that Shui Xian didn''t like wearing rings so the only ring on his hand had to be his wedding ring.

    Shui Xian looked at the time on his wristwatch and said, "It''s almost lunchtime, shouldn''t you be joining Mr. Han for that lunch?"

    Ruan Meilin looked at his face silently before she asked, "Is she your girlfriend?"

    "She is my wife," he answered without missing a beat. As for her identity, he wasn''t willing to disclose it.

    "That wasn''t Bebe''s voice," said Ruan Meilin.

    Shui Xian''s face hardened at the mentioning of that name as he looked straight at Ruan Meilin and said, "I''m not talking about my ex-wife." He took a deep breath to calm himself and added, "This is business hours, and I don''t feel like wasting anymore of my time by continuing this discussion. So, please leave!"

    Ruan Meilin had to leave when he said it like that. She strongly believed that Shui Xian was lying to her. There had been no news regarding Shui Xian''s wedding, so she was all the more unwilling to believe that he got married. Wasn''t he still deeply in love with his first wife? Wasn''t that why she''d been silently apanying him for years? Waiting for him to forget the curse of that first love?

    However, the woman she talked to over the phone had left her feeling uneasy. For some reason, the confident tone of Raelle had been bothering her. The way she spoke about Shui Xian clearly indicated that they were familiar. But Ruan Meilin couldn''t think of a woman who would be close to Shui Xian. He had been keeping his distance from the opposite sex for years now, isn''t that why he always drew a clear line between them?

    Other than Shui Sying, Shui Xian had no other woman around him. That''s something Ruan Meilin was certain about. But to learn about what was happening in Shui Xian''s life, she had to talk to someone.

    She took out her phone and dialed a number. As the call connected, she smiled widely and greeted, "Sying, how are you? I''m back in the city, let''s catch up over coffee?"

    "Sure," came the reply. "I happened to be free today. Text me the address and time. I''ll see you there."

    "That''s wonderful!" replied Ruan Meilin happily. "I''m looking forward to meeting you."

 Chapter 151 - Selfish Love

    Shui Xian had waited until Ruan Meilin left his office. He didn''t care whether she believed his words or not, it didn''t matter. He had already made his stance clear. If the other person still had some ideas, he could do nothing about it.

    Now that the third wheeler was gone, he focused his attention on the phone that looked like his own but definitely wasn''t his. He was rather surprised to find out that since this morning, Raelle had not even received a single phone call. But then again, barely five or so people even knew her number.

    Raelle''s phone was just as nk as her heart. There were only two photos that she had clicked on the day they registered their marriage. One was a photo of their hands and the other was a photo of them as newlyweds. And he had seen that while setting the new lock screen photo for her, he had actually joked, "Wife, say, is your heart just like your phone?"

    She didn''t understand his meaning as she asked back, "Like what?"

    "Only have you and me in it?" Shui Xian had smirked at her yfully. "Since your phone only has our photo together, I think your heart is also like that."

    Raelle had blinked at him innocently, "But the phone has a storage space that my heart doesn''t have."

    Shui Xian shook his head at her, "But your brain has a storage space, no?" Raelle nodded her head agreeably. "Then can you keep us in your memory... Together?"

    Raelle knocked her forehead with his as she had said, "I can doubt anything in life except for my memory. Trust me when I say I don''t forget anything. The memory of us will always be preserved in my mind."

    Shui Xian let out an artificial sigh, "I suddenly have a wish. I wish you love me as you love yourself."

    "I love myself?" questioned Raelle. "No one ever told me that before."

    Shui Xian brushed the tip of her nose with his own as he looked into her eyes and said, "Today, let me tell you. It doesn''t matter what you think about love but at the end of the day, the person you love is yourself." Raelle naturally leaned her forehead against his as she continued to hold his gaze. "You''re selfish when ites to yourself. You''d do anything you think is right. You''re not selfish in a bad way, it''s more like your way of loving yourself."

    "The world has enough selfless women," replied Raelle. "Some of us needs to learn how to be selfish."

    Shui Xian smiled at her, "I agree." He kissed her cheek as he said, "It''s actually a part of your beauty. It makes you real." Then he kissed her other cheek and went on, "Besides I heard the journey of love begins from oneself. You can hate the world but a person should always know how to love himself." He wrapped his arms around her tightly as he wanted to add, "I don''t mind you learning to love me selfishly. I might actually be looking forward to your selfish love." However, he decided not to do so.

    Coming back to the present, he shook his head and clicked on his own contact detail, and waited for his wife to pick up.

    Meanwhile, on the other hand, Raelle dropped the pile of files on Cloe''s hands saying, "I''ve already highlighted the things you need to work on again. Now, you can go back to your own seat." And before Cloe could turn to leave, she added, "And don''t sit outside my office with the secretarial staff. Thepany has provided you with a huge office."

    "I get lonely there," replied Cloe with a smile.

    "Are you sure it''s not because you can''t find another person to badmouth your boss in your office?"

    Cloe kept her lips sealed. No matter what she said, Raelle would find a way to turn it against her. That''s why they say, silence is GOLDEN! She''ll use this weapon of silence to dodge this double-edged sword named, President Raelle.

    Now that Raelle was done with the work at hand, she took the phone that had been ced aside and decided to call her husband to let him know that their phones had been exchanged. However, before she could make the call, she ended up receiving the call from the person whom she was about to call herself.

    However, she didn''t attend the call immediately. No, it wasn''t because she wanted Shui Xian to wait. It was because of the contact picture that shed on the disy screen. Cloe had just bent down to pick up thest file from the table when her eyes also caught sight of the photo.

    Although she had decided to keep her silence, she still couldn''t help saying in awe, "Chief, from the moment I first met you, I thought you''re the most beautiful woman I''ve evere across. And that''s saying something considering I''m a woman myself. But this..."

    Raelle didn''t say anything to Cloe in reply. She was silently staring at the picture that she didn''t even know about. The girl in the photo was definitely herself, then howe she found it so unfamiliar?

    That gentle look in her eyes as she caressed the rose before her with sunlight as her halo. She never knew she could have such a gentle look in her eyes. Didn''t her eyes always look exactly the same? Then why this photo gave her such a different feel?

    "The beauty is in the eye of the beholder,"mented Cloe. "A photographer can always find the beauty through his viewfinder that ordinary people can''t see."

    "Out!" There was only one word that came out of Raelle''s mouth as she stared at Cloe.

    Cloe hurriedly rushed out of the room. The phone had stopped ringing but only for a couple of seconds before it rang again. This time, Raelle didn''t pause before attending the call.

    And just as the call connected, she could hear Shui Xian''s mischievous voice, "Wife, I thought you''d steal my heart, why did you steal my phone instead?"

 Chapter 152 - Advanced Flirting MOD 520

    Raelle didn''t reply immediately, she stood up and walked over to the ss wall. Looking over the skyscrapers, she said, "Whether I steal your phone or your heart, aren''t both meant to be mine?"

    Shui Xian''s mouth opened wide in disbelief. It took him a while toe up with words to say, "Wife, you''re really a league ahead of me. I was proud that I passed ''Flirting MOD 101'' with flying colors. But you certainly passed, ''Advanced Flirting MOD 520''[1] with soaring grades!"

    "Is this your way of saying that my flirting skills are superior?"

    Shui Xian chuckled at her question and hummed in reply, "Yes. Your skills are definitely superior."

    "That''s because I''m a fast learner," said Raelle. "Anyway, I was about to call you. Your cellphone has been ringing a lot. The caller id ''Ruan'' called to invite you out for lunch but I declined on your behalf."

    "Oh, you did?" Shui Xian acted as if he didn''t know anything regarding this topic. "Why?"

    "Isn''t your lunchtime exclusively mine?" retorted Raelle.

    "Wife, even I''m exclusively yours," said Shui Xian. "And you''re merely asking for my lunchtime? If all of me is yours, all of my time is yours as well."

    "I don''t want all of your time," replied Raelle. "What if I got bored?"

    "It''s only been two weeks, and you''re already bored of me?"

    "I said, ''what if.''" Taking a brief pause she went on, "Oh, Zhai Yanjun also called."

    Shui Xian''s brows furrowed up, "Why did he call? Did he say anything to you?"

    "What can he say to me?" questioned Raelle.

    Shui Xian nodded to himself. Indeed, what could Zhai Yanjun say to Raelle? It''d be more believable if someone said Raelle said something to Zhai Yanjun. After all, he was getting quite familiar with his wife''s eloquence.

    "Who else called?" asked Shui Xian.

    Raelle told him about two other calls that came while she was talking to Cloe earlier. Both were rted to his business dealings and she diligently informed him the details down to the smallest thing. "Now, should I bring your phone to you or you''re gonna collect it yourself?"

    "You''ll bring my phone to me?"

    "No, I can just ask someone to do it," replied Raelle dampening Shui Xian''s mood.

    "Forget it then. It''s just a phone, you take care of it for today," said Shui Xian.

    "You''re getting important calls," was Raelle''s response. "Won''t it bring you trouble?"

    Shui Xian smiled to himself, "You can y the role of conveying messages to me. Can''t I count on my capable wife?"

    Raelle''s eyes were stuck to the birds soaring in the sky as she thought of something and said, "You just want me to call you over and over again."

    Shui Xian''s eyes widened, "How did you know?" He really didn''t think she''d be able to catch his hidden intention so well. But as always, she just had to give him a surprise.

    "Your intentions are quite obvious," responded Raelle.

    Shui Xian chuckled at her reply. He actuallyughed for a long while. If she could tell his intentions, then it was all the more reason for him to make his intentions all the more clear to her. She couldn''t understandplicated human emotions, he had to make some things obvious to her. To make it easy for her to pick up things.

    Even though he had already learned that the sensitivity in her apparent insensitivity was remarkable!

    "Why did you click my photo?" asked Raelle.

    "When we see something beautiful, don''t we all want to capture that beauty?" Shui Xian spun the pen on the ss surface of his desk as he continued, "I found my wife''s beauty surreal so I captured it with my phone''s camera." Without waiting for Raelle''s reply, he went on, "Besides, I don''t think there is anything wrong with keeping a picture of my own wife in my phone."

    "Well, I didn''t say anything is wrong with that," replied Raelle.

    <i><strong>*Knock! Knock!*</strong></i>

    Shui Xian lifted his eyes when he heard the knocking at the door and soon the door was pushed open by his assistant, "Master Xian, Mr. Liam and his team have reached the lobby."

    Shui Xian looked at the time and looked displeased at being disturbed like this, "Why is he so early? Weren''t we supposed to meet after the lunch?"

    "Sudden change of ns. He has to urgently leave the city," informed Ma Jin.

    Shui Xian hesitated a little and while he was hesitating, he heard his wife''s voice, "Don''t even think about dying the meeting. Liam is leaving the country in two hours, you won''t be able to get a hold of him for the next two months."

    Shui Xian frowned a little as he asked, "How do you know that?"

    Raelle checked her perfectly shaped nails as she answered, "Because I am the one behind his sudden change of ns."

    Shui Xian shook his head. The corner of his lips went up ever so slightly as he said, "What did you do now?"

    "Have I ever told you about one of my hidden talents?" Raelle replied with her own question instead of answering him. "I don''t want to brag but I have a ton of experience at making people mad."

    "Why am I not even surprised?" was Shui Xian''s reply as he pinched the bridge of his nose. Looking up at Ma Jin, he said, "Take him to the meeting room, I''ll be there." Then he turned his attention back to his wife and said, "It seems our lunch..."

    "You can focus on work," said Raelle without giving him a chance toplete his words. "Just don''t forget to eat something. I''ll see you at home."

    Shui Xian hummed in reply before the call disconnected. While he was staring at the phone screen with a softened gaze, he realized that there was another person around him. As he abruptly looked up to meet Ma Jin''s eyes, thetter was stunned.

    "Why are you still here?"

    Ma Jin shook his head and meekly said, ''nothing'' before he turned around to leave. He definitely wasn''t gonna tell Master Xian that he almost lost his soul seeing that smile on his face.

    [1] Just so you know, ''520'' is inte ng in Chinese which means ''I love you.'' Because it sounds simr to ''wo ai ni'' which means ''I love you.''

 Chapter 153 - How About I Join You?

    Today Raelle had a whole new job experience. It was the kind of job she never expected herself to do. It was the job of a call operator.

    Yes, you heard it right!

    Today was that rare asion when Raelle got to experience what it felt like to be a call operator. She already found talking on the phone troublesome but now, she just realized how troublesome it really was.

    For the first time in her life, she realized the value of her own phone! Even though that thing was troublesome, it actually knew its ce and stayed quiet! But Shui Xian''s phone was unruly! Why couldn''t it just stop ringing?

    To be honest, Shui Xian''s phone was well behaved as well. In the whole day, he might have gotten about ten calls and all had been important. If we don''t consider the one involving Ruan Meilin. The rest definitely had a purpose. Even Zhai Yanjun had a purpose! That soldier called to apologize! That''s called manners.

    However, for Raelle, whose phone rang less than two times a day, that number was still quite big. In the evening, surprisingly, both Raelle and Shui Xian''s cars arrived at the same time. And just as Raelle got out, she shoved Shui Xian''s phone into his hand saying, ''This thing is too heavy for me.''

    On the other hand, Shui Xian was quite pleased. After all, with this blunder of phone exchange, he managed to receive so many calls from his wife in just one day! That''s a record! And he could really bet that he was the first one Raelle had ever called so many times in the very same day. And this moment, Master Xian conveniently decided to overlook the fact that she only called to deliver the messages.

    But there was one thing he couldn''t forget though, the way his wife worked. Her way of dealing with business matters was impable and meticulous. Even his own assistants could never grasp the things she managed to do so. But then again, his father had repeatedly told him how Raelle had more experience in the business than he did. After all, he only joined the business a few years ago but Raelle had almost spent a decade in the corporate world. And she was only 24 now!

    There is a saying,paring yourself to others will make your heart hurt.

    But Shui Xian''s heart was actually feeling proud for having a genius wife. She was dedicated to her work and she was diligent. You could find ws in her personality but you could never question her work. In fact, her ws were also interesting because she truly embraced her ws. If you tell her she did something wrong or said something wrong, she won''t get mad at you. She''d listen to you and ponder over it carefully.

    While Shui Xian was taking a shower before going to bed, Raelle was pacing around in the bedroom with her iPad in her hands. She was waiting for her turn to shower. She seemed to be reading business news from across the globe.

    *Ring!*

    Raelle''s steps paused as she looked at the ''devil'' known as a cellphone! It rang again! And it was again Shui Xian''s phone! It''s beyond troublesome at this point for her.

    She looked at the phone and then looked at the closed door of the bathroom before contemting over. Walking over, she took the phone from the side table and went towards the bathroom door. She knocked on it saying, "Hubby, your phone is ringing."

    She couldn''t hear a reply so she simply lifted her hand and turned the doorknob. Surprise, surprise! It was unlocked!

    Raelle didn''t think further and walked inside. She could see the steam-filled inside the ss shower cubicle. With the ringing phone in her hand, she pulled open the door startling Shui Xian.

    "Wifey!" he eximed seeing her suddenly barging in like this.

    "Your phone is ringing," said Raelle while her eyes moved all over his body. The water from the showerhead was falling on his glistening body and sliding down south in a tempting manner.

    "I''m up here," said Shui Xian as he tried to get her attention back to his face. Of course, he wasn''t embarrassed at all. He had gotten used to having his wife ogling him all the time.

    Raelle slowly lifted her eyes to hold his gaze and nodded her head, "I know."

    "Who is calling?" asked Shui Xian.

    Raelle finally looked at the caller id and replied, "Meimei[1]."

    "Just leave it be then," said Shui Xian as he extended his arm to try to close the ss door but Raelle put her foot up as a hindrance.

    "Why are you shy? Haven''t I seen it all already?"

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched and it took him a while to control his expressions as he said, "I''ll show you more. Just let me shower for now."

    "How about I join you?" suggested Raelle as she blinked at him innocently.

    Shui Xian''s heartbeat fastened and he had to take deep breaths to calm himself down as he said, "I didn''t give you an invitation to join me in the shower yet."

    "I still need an invitation?" asked Raelle and Shui Xian nodded his head before closing the door. He didn''t hear anything for a while and thought she left but suddenly, her head popped up inside as she asked, "How can I get the invitation?"

    "Wife, you better leave now or I''m gonna eat you up right here!"

    Raelle tutted like she had seen others doing with a shake of her head as she said, "I didn''t know you''re this starved."

    While Shui Xian gaped at her in disbelief, she had already closed the door and left the bathroom on her own leaving Shui Xian to turn the temperature of the water from hot to cold!

    [1] ''Meimei'' means little sister. Well, I thought keeping it as ''Meimei'' sounded quite good. But if you want, I''ll change it in theter chapters. Just let me know your opinion.

 Chapter 154 - Mega Troublesome

    After Raelle came back to the bedroom, the cellphone was still ringing in her hand. Well, she had to say, the caller was either persistent or just in mulish. Whichever it was, she definitely didn''t like the sound of this ringtone.

    While Shui Xian could just ignore a phone call, she couldn''t. She''d rather take the call and let the other person know that she wasn''t interested in talking instead of ignoring like that and letting the other person take blind shots. That wasn''t her style.

    After pondering for a while, she decided to just take this call. After all, she had already taken enough calls for today. One more won''t make much of a difference here. One more or one less, who cares? It definitely can''t shake her belief that phone calls were troublesome!

    With that thought in mind, she took the call. But apparently, every caller had a bad habit around here. Whenever she took the call, no one would allow her to say the first word.

    And Raelle didn''t have a habit of cutting between people''s sentences. Even if someone was insulting her, she''d let them finish before attacking herself. And that was especially the case when she was unfamiliar with someone.

    Right now, as soon as the call connected, she could hear a voice filled with the grievance, "Ge, why are you ignoring me? Aren''t I, your one and only sister? You always said you''d stand by my side. How could you also turn your back on me now? Don''t forget, I only have you!"

    The girl''s voice grew softer and she even sniffled indicating that she must have been shedding some tears. Such a pity that Raelle didn''t even give a damn about someone''s tears.

    "Oh, I''m sorry," began Raelle in her usual aloof tone. "But it seems you''ll have to pour out your grievance before your brother who for now isn''t interested in talking to you."

    "You..." Shui Sying''s words faltered a little. She seemed to be confused for a while before she said, "Oh, right. My brother has married again. You must be his wife but why do you have his phone?"

    Raelle put the phone on speakerphone and ced it on the bed before falling down on the mattress with her iPad in her hands. She definitely wasn''t gonna waste her time with just this phone call. As sheid on her stomach, she supported her upper body up with her elbows while her legs were raised up as she swayed them carelessly.

    "You just said it yourself, he''s my husband," replied Raelle matter-of-factly. "If I won''t have his phone, who else can have it?"

    "What kind of a wife are you if you don''t know that your husband takes his privacy very seriously?" retorted Shui Sying in a slightly raised voice. "How can you just take his phone? Even if you''re suspicious of him, at least, use your brain and stop trying to fish out information through his phone."

    Those words had little to no effect on Raelle whose legs were still moving back and forth in the air carelessly and yet in a rhythmic manner while her finger continued to scroll through the information before her.

    And since she was so focused, she didn''t realize that Shui Xian had opened the door of the bathroom but paused the moment he heard his sister''s voice almost echoing in his bedroom. For a moment, he actually thought she was in his bedroom.

    "What is your rtionship with Xian?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Sying frowned at her question, "I am his sister! Can''t you understand that?"

    "Oh, it seems you''re the one who has some kind of misunderstanding here," replied Raelle offhandedly. "You might be his sister, but I''m his legally wedded wife." Shui Xian looked at her with his eyes widening ever so slightly. "Between you and I, the one who is allowed to live in his room and sleep on his bed is actually me. And I believe a person''s bed is considered their most personal thing." She tapped the screen of the iPad thoughtfully as she continued, "How much seriously I take my husband''s privacy is my matter because I am his wife. As for you, let me give you a piece of advice free of cost, if you''re Xian''s sister, act like one. Stop trying to find faults in your brother''s wife whom he chose to marry himself."

    "You!" Shui Sying''s voice was broken but filled with rage. "My brother would never marry someone like you if it wasn''t because he was forced by his father!"

    Raelle exhaled a breath, "What is he? Three? He is a grown-up man. No one can force him to do something he doesn''t want to do himself. It''s not like B¨¤ tied his hands and legs to drag him to register this marriage. As I said, he isn''t a three-year-old that you can lure with candy in hand." She took a brief pause before adding, "Why Xian married me is something only I''d know best. Your opinion is neither needed nor appreciated."

    Shui Xian covered his mouth to hold back hisughter and leaned against the doorframe with his eyes shining with a gentle light. He just couldn''t look away from his wife. Indeed, no one can win a battle of wits with her.

    It took a while for Shui Sying to evenprehend her words. Her breathing was rough as she snorted, "Oh, then you tell me why he married you? I''m quite interested in knowing what my brother saw in you to actually start this cold war with his one and only sister for you."

    Raelle put down her iPad and replied, "He married me because I took his breath away with my astounding self."

    "I have never seen a more self-centered person than you!" shouted Shui Sying.

    "Oh, please! I wouldn''t want to take your title," replied Raelle calmly.

    "What do you mean?"

    "Even a blind would be able to tell that between you and I, the more self-centered one is you. If that wasn''t the case, you wouldn''t be holding your petty ego between yourself and your brother." Raelle untied her hair and let them cascade down slowly as she continued, "Earlier you said, I''m the reason why you''re brother is ignoring you. So, let me enlighten you now while I''m feeling good, the one between you and your brother isn''t me. Definitely not me. It''s your own stubbornness."

    Raelle didn''t give the other person a chance to speak as she said her concluding words, "My Yanyan says when stubbornnesses between two people, it just makes their rtionship sad." With that, she said goodbye, and wishing the other person a ''goodnight'' she hung up directly.

    And that''s howdies and gentlemen our Raelle came to the concrete conclusion that phone calls are tiring especially the personal ones. Business calls would never feel this tiring. So now we had two categories, Business calls from now one are considered ''Troublesome'' while personal calls have managed to climb a rank and be, ''Mega Troublesome!''

 Chapter 155 - Respect Is Earned

    Even after the call ended, it took Shui Xian a moment toe back to himself. No matter how familiar he was with his wife''s sharp eloquence, today seemed different. She actually got into an argument that was so not like her.

    He still remembered when he saw Raelle at the jewelry outlet, she didn''t bother sparing a second nce to the one who tried to insult her. But now she actually shot back.

    He walked over to the bed andid down right beside her. Raelle extended his phone towards him saying, "Did you hear everything?"

    "Almost," he replied without hesitation. He didn''t think there was a need to lie about that.

    Raelle silently pondered over something before asking, "Do you think I said something wrong?" Shui Xian turned his head to look at her and she borated, "I told you I know my words tend to get hurtful. And I also know that since she is my husband''s sister, I shouldn''t have been harsh on her."

    Shui Xian couldn''t help ying with her hair as he said, "Didn''t you just tell her that I decided to marry you because of your astounding personality?" Raelle wasn''t even feeling difited to know that her narcissism was seen by her husband. It''s not like he wasn''t familiar with it and neither was it like she lied. Shui Xian gave her a small smile as he went on, "Since I know about your personality, obviously I didn''t expect you to be nice to her just because she is my sister. Whether you want to be nice to her or not, that depends on you. And how you treat my sister depends on how she treats you. One who wants to be respected should learn to be respectful. Respect is earned, it''s not charity that can be given."

    Raelle already strongly believed that she didn''t say anything wrong but she was certain that she must have used the wrong way to say it. After all, she had been told way too many times how she always chose the wrong words to even state the right things.

    Seeing her distracted eyes, Shui Xian''s hand cupped the side of her face that made Raelle''s distinct eyes focus back on his face as he said, "Wife, I''m sorry on my sister''s behalf. She shouldn''t have talked to you like that."

    Raelle shrugged her shoulders, "It doesn''t matter."

    Shui Xian could see in her eyes that she really didn''t care about Shui Sying''s words. "I''m curious about something."

    "What is it?" asked Raelle as she tried to get up since she still had to take a shower.

    Shui Xian also sat up as he looked at her back and questioned, "I thought you never fight back even when people say something against you. Don''t you consider it troublesome to argue with people?"

    Raelle''s steps halted and she turned around to look at Shui Xian''s perplexed and inquisitive gaze. She took a step towards him and stood right in from of him as she told him, "I indeed don''t have a habit of wasting time over something like that. It''s waste of time and energy. I''d rather use the same time and energy to attain something greater."

    "Then why?" Shui Xian''s brows furrowed deeply as his eyes didn''t move away from her face.

    Raelle pointed at him saying, "It''s because of you." Shui Xian was taken aback by her response while she continued, "Your sister didn''t try to insult me as Raelle Xiang. If she did, trust me, I''d just pretend like she is an annoying fly who is not even worth my p." Shui Xian''s lips twitched at her words but Raelle didn''t notice as she rubbed her lips with her index finger thoughtfully as she went on, "But the thing is, she questioned me as your wife. And that also means she is questioning my husband''s insight and judgment. I can''t let that slide away."

    Shui Xian stretched out his hand to hold her wrist and pulled her towards him. Now, that she stood between his legs, his arms enwrapped around her waist as he said, "It feels good to see that my wife is actually willing to fight for me." He buries his face in her stomach and even dropped kisses with the thin fabric between his lips and her skin.

    Unconsciously, Raelle''s fingers slid into Shui Xian''s thick hair and yed with his soft hair on their own ord.

    "Do you hate her?" asked Shui Xian in a small voice.

    Raelle looked down into his eyes and shook her head, "Do you really think I can hate her? All she did was put forth her own personal opinion. I like it when people have their own opinions in life but it''s not eptable when people try to dictate others'' lives with their own opinions. It''s alright for your sister to hate me but she should learn that between my rtionship with you, her opinion is not needed." She took a pause to add, "She isn''t the one I''m gonna spend my life with. It''s you. My husband."

    "She isn''t a bad person," said Shui Xian and showed a helpless look on his face. "She just has a bad temper. But she has a good heart."

    "Whether she is a good person or a bad person," began Raelle. "It really doesn''t matter. To me, she will always be just my husband''s little sister. That makes her a part of the family and Yanyan says when ites to family, we don''t give up. No matter if the family is good or bad, we shouldn''t give up."

    Shui Xian shook his head slightly and said, "Dear, sometimes, we all have to give up. Even if it''s family, we have to let go." Seeing Raelle''s confusion, he offered her a small smile and went on, "Go, take a shower. Don''t you have to sleep at your fixed time?"

    Raelle nodded her head and went to the bathroom to take a shower. Behind her, Shui Xian was left staring at his phone screen in silence. It''s been a long time and he had yet to decide whether to give up on his sister or not. This choice wasn''t as simple as he just made it sound.

 Chapter 156 - Burning Calories?

    Pitter-patter!

    Early in the morning when Raelle opened her eyes precisely on time, she heard the soft sound of raining from outside. Even though the weather won''t allow her to go out for a run, she still had to get out of bed.

    She looked down at the arm that was around her body and then turned her head to look at the sleeping face of her husband. It wasn''t strange to her any longer sincetely, Shui Xian''s arm would always be around her body whenever she woke up. In fact, oftentimes, she''d find herself squished against his hot body.

    Even if she slept on her side of the bed, she''d be pulled towards his side of the bed in her sleep. But interestingly enough, Shui Xian never tried to move himself to her side of the bed. It was like her words that he wasn''t permitted there yet were actually deep-rooted in his heart. Or perhaps, it was his way of showing his respect towards his wife.

    She slowly but carefully tried to move Shui Xian''s hand but her dear husband was stirred awake and even tightened his arm around her as he said in a groggy voice, "It''s raining outside."

    "I know," replied Raelle matter-of-factly. Obviously, she could hear the sound of rain clearly.

    "Then go back to sleep again," said Shui Xian as he nuzzled into her hair. "You can''t go out for a run in this weather. And it''s Saturday. We don''t have to go to work as well. Let''s continue to sleep a little longer."

    "I can''t sleep," said Raelle. She didn''t exin that once she woke up, she won''t be able to go back to sleep. Her sleep had fixed timing, just like several other things in her life. And she really didn''t know how to go back to sleep now. "If I don''t work out, my body won''t be at ease."

    Shui Xian opened his eyes and looked at her face. He already knew how inflexible his wife could be. It didn''t even surprise him anymore.

    "Let me get up," said Raelle as she tried to sit up. "I''m gonna exercise indoors today."

    Shui Xian''s eyes sparkled with a mischievous glint as he pulled her back down and lifted his body up a little. With his legs caging her body, his upper body hovered above hers as he said, "Since we aren''t going out today, how about burning some calories in the bed?"

    Raelle blinked at him. In the dim lights of the room, she could actually make out his intentions through his bright eyes staring at her. Instead of trying to force her way out, she let her body sink in as she looked back at him and asked, "And how are we gonna do that?"

    With an evil smirk tugging at the corner of his lips, Shui Xian''s head dipped down. While Raelle thought his soft lips would capture hers, he didn''t follow her track of thoughts. His lips moved close to her ear and his breath hit her ear.

    "I think you already know how we are gonna do it," his hot breath was still trying to tickle her senses. He yfully bit her ear and Raelle''s lips parted slightly at the sudden feeling that his touch brought to her.

    "Actually, I don''t," was her response that made Shui Xian stop what he was doing to look into her eyes. He knew she wasn''t lying to him and that''s why he was curious to hear her exnation. Raelle didn''t disappoint him as she borated, "Every time we are together, it''s a different experience. So, I really don''t know what you''re going to do to me today."

    Shui Xian''s lips stretched into a full blooming smile as he brushed the tip of his nose against hers gently and lovingly as he told her, "Have I told you?"

    "What?" questioned Raelle.

    Shui Xian didn''t reply to her and instead kissed her passionately. What he had on his mind was, how deeply he was falling for that honest mouth of hers. Even though people said she was a bitter person, he still found her mouth extra sweet. However, he was still not willing to exin to her how her mouth was sweet to him.

    He seemed to love it whenever she blinked at him innocently and it always happened whenever he told her that her kisses were sweet. That expression of hers alone was enough to put him in a good mood for the whole day.

    He was still on top of her body as he continued to kiss her while his hands roamed around her body. Raelle wasn''t justying beneath him, she actively reciprocated his actions as her hands caressed his skin and feeling the tug at his shirt, Shui Xian chuckled softly before he pulled it over his head and discarded it without any care.

    Now, even Raelle''s body had be familiar with not just Shui Xian''s touch but also his kisses. In fact, without her even realizing it, her body was even anticipating his touch and kisses.

    "Elle..."

    "Hm?"

    Shui Xian hadn''t made a move to lift her shirt. While he was half-naked, she was still dressed in her nightgown. Looking at herying underneath his body, his eyes softened up as he intently gazed into her eyes. "You are beautiful," he told her while tucking her hair behind her ear.

    Raelle blinked at him for a minute in silence before saying, "I know."

    Shui Xian rained little kisses all over her face. On her cheeks, forehead, the tip of her nose, her eyes, and her chin. His warm breath was fanning her face. He suddenly bit the tip of her nose making her stare at him without blinking and chuckled at finally getting some reaction as he said in a low whisper, "You really are beautiful."

    "Why do you keep saying that?" she wondered out loud.

    "I''m reminding myself," he said with a smile. His tongue darted out to lick the tip of her nose where he just bit lightly as he added, "That I have a beautiful wife."

 Chapter 157 - Feeling Proud

    Although Shui Xian nned to burn some calories, in the end, nothing happened between them. One; Shui Xian was too content with cuddling and kissing his wife. So content that once he started, he couldn''t seem to find the stop button. Two; the ever inflexible wife of his wanted to go for a run at any cost.

    Well, Shui Xian was happy with the fact that he managed to make Raelle roll in the bed for longer than usual. This seemed like a huge aplishment to him. And it was indeed a huge aplishment to anyone who was familiar with Raelle''s time management.

    Finally, Shui Xian also woke up and happily followed his wife downstairs to the gym where she ran on the treadmill while he continued to watch her intently. He hade to realize why Raelle was so loved by the few people she called family. He couldn''t help loving her either. She just made him want to hug her and smother her with love. He could finally understand Mu Chenyan''s feelings who always doted on Raelle without any restraint.

    It seemed to be his wife''s undiscovered charm. She could make anyone want to dote on her endlessly as long as she wanted to. And this charm was certainly working on Master Xian whose head had been filled with his wifetely. All he could think about was how to find the beautiful things that could make his wife happy.

    On the other side of things, there was another person who wanted to act spoiled...

    "Grandpa!"

    Grandfather Xiang had just received some unexpected guests when a loud cry caught his attention and his eyes softened up because of the youngd who came running inside the drawing-room with a huge grin on his face.

    "Yue Fai," Grandfather Xiang called out lovingly.

    Hyson rushed up to his side and kneeled down before his wheelchair before hugging him tightly, "Tianyu, I missed you."

    Grandfather Xiang knocked on his head and gently reproached, "When are you gonna stop calling me by my name?"

    Hyson gave him a toothy grin as he replied, "I told you already, I consider you my friend. Calling you Grandpa feels distant."

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head but didn''t say anything to Hyson. He had be fond of Hyson from the moment he first met him. He found Hyson not only loveable but also extremely adorable. And oddly, the feelings hadn''t changed in all those years. Hyson was still like a lovable and adorable grandson to Grandfather Xiang.

    Perhaps, that''s why Hyson was sofortable with him and even acted spoiled with him whenever he got the chance.

    "I brought you a lot of tonics to nourish your health," said Hyson. "I also found something interesting on the streets and bought that as well."

    Grandfather Xiang rubbed Hyson''s head saying, "Silly child, can you evere empty-handed?"

    "Mum says it''s bad manners to go empty-handed," replied Hyson lovingly. "Also, I saw something I wanted to share with my Grandpa, why can''t I bring it?"

    "It''s pointless to argue with you," said Grandfather Xiang while shaking his head.

    "Then you shouldn''t argue. Don''t you know my best friend''s name is Raelle Xiang," responded Hyson as he leaned into Grandfather Xiang''s touch. Since his family only consisted of him and his mother, he cherished Grandfather Xiang a lot more. This elderly man was like a blessing to him who always yearned to have the love of his elders.

    "It''s raining outside," began Grandfather Xiang. "Why didn''t you use an umbre? How is your hair damp?" He frowned slightly as he added, "Take off your jacket, it''s also wet." Then he pushed him saying, "You go upstairs and take a hot shower. Change your clothes as well."

    The way he spoke left no room for arguments and Hyson could only obediently nod his head before he skipped his way upstairs. From the beginning till the end, he hadn''t spared a nce to the guests who had been sitting in the drawing-room with Grandfather Xiang. In fact, he really didn''t see them since his eyes were only focused on one person all along.

    "Is there someone?" called out Grandfather Xiang. "Prepare some soup for Yue Fai. Make sure he doesn''t catch a cold."

    The maidservant took his instructions and respectfully bowed before leaving.

    "That doesn''t look like your grandson."

    Grandfather Xiang was startled by that voice and suddenly realized that his friend and his wife were still seated before him. He really forgot about them because of Hyson. He always found Hyson to be such a lively kid that he often found it difficult to pay attention to anyone else when he was around.

    "He is a grandson to me," was Grandfather Xiang''s response.

    His best friend, Zhai Feiyang narrowed his eyes at his friend as he said, "Your real grandson might get really upset to hear you say that." He sighed a little as he added, "Tianyu, have you met him though?" Grandfather Xiang raised his brow inquisitively and his friend went on, "I mean, you grandson? Have you met him?"

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head in response, "I haven''t."

    "He looks just like you," said Zhai Feiyang as he continued to observe his best friend''s expressions. "He is just as proud as you had always been. Even his temper is just like you. But he is a good kid. He really has the Xiang blood in his veins. His achievements are admirable."

    Although Grandfather Xiang''s heart was stirred, he didn''t let it show on his face.

    Zhai Feiyang had brought his wife over to meet and apologize to Xiang Tianyu in person. Because of what his grandson, Zhai Yanjun did he hadn''t been able to face his best friend. But he knew his grandson was at fault so he took the initiative toe and apologize to his best friend. He believed their friendship was far greater than one apology.

    What he hadn''t expected was to see Hyson. And he also didn''t expect to see his best friend''s intimate reaction towards that youngd. That''s why he couldn''t help bringing up Grandfather Xiang''s own grandson.

    "It doesn''t matter how good he is," said Grandfather Xiang after a moment''s pause. "My Raelle will still be the best to me. That grandson of mine can stay as the best son to his father. I''m fine with my Raelle who had been making me feel proud for far too long now."

 Chapter 158 - Found A New Hobby

    "I thought your grandson was personally gonna pay me a visit to apologize," said Grandfather Xiang as he took a sip of the tea from the ceramic cup in his hand. His gaze was focused on the tea leaves floating in the cup. "After all, the slight sh between us had nothing to do with you." It was indeed true that he was upset with Zhai Yanjun for ditching his granddaughter but that matter had nothing to do with his best friend.

    Although he pretended to be angry with Zhai Feiyang over that incident, he actually wasn''t angry with him.

    Grandmother Zhai took this chance to speak up, "Brother Yu, it''s because our Jun had to join an important mission at thest moment. Otherwise, he had been prepared toe and kneel before you."

    Grandfather Xiang smiled a little as he said, "Sister-inw, howe you''re so biased when ites to your grandson?"

    "As if you aren''t biased when ites to your youngest granddaughter," retorted Grandmother Zhai with a challenging look.

    Grandfather Xiang couldn''t argue with her over that. He was biased when it came to Raelle and it was a widely known fact by now. He couldn''t help it either.

    "Little master, drink some soup."

    The elders in the drawing-room turned their heads towards the door when they heard the maid''s voice. And what they saw was the sight of Hyson running ahead while the maid running after him with a bowl of soup.

    "It''s your favorite soup!"

    "But you added that bitter medicinal herb in it," said Hyson as he scrunched up his nose. He had no problem with drinking the soup but he hated the medicines! No matter what kind of medicine it was, he couldn''t swallow it with a straight face.

    "Yue Fai!" Grandfather Xiang called out and Hyson made a face at him before reluctantly taking the bowl of the soup from the maid as he walked over to sit beside Grandfather Xiang. "It''s good for your health. Don''t make such a face. Besides, don''t you always bring me the bitter tonics? Have I everined?"

    "Your granddaughter''s name is Raelle Xiang," said Hyson. "There is no bitterness that canpete with her."

    Grandfather Xiang''s lips twitched at his remark, "She is your best friend as well."

    "Of course, she is," Hyson sounded quite proud of himself as he said it. "And she is the only bitterness I''m willing to swallow happily in my life. Have you ever seen me frown at her? No! Because she is my favorite kind of bitterness."

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head at Hyson and introduced him to the guests, "Meet my best friend, Zhai Feiyang, and his wife." Then he ced his hand on Hyson''s head as he went on, "And this is my grandson, Yue Fai."

    Hyson offered the two elders a bright and lovely smile that startled the elderly couple for a moment. "Nice to meet you both. I have heard a lot about you from Tianyu."

    As everyone already knew, Hyson''s talent was how easily he managed to charm elders around him. He was indeed a loveable child whose smile alone was enough to evoke good feelings within people. He was the kind of a youngd whom the elder people loved. Bright smile, lively personality, a sweet mouth, and good manners. Who would not like such a person?

    "Aiyo, Brother Yu, if you had told us about Yue Fai we would have brought something for him as well," said Grandmother Zhai who couldn''t bring herself to look away from Hyson''s handsome face. His recently washed hair fell over his eyes slightly as he hadn''t styled it again. He gave off a very carefree and unrestraint feeling at the moment.

    "Yue Fai doesn''t like receiving gifts just like Raelle," told Grandfather Xiang with a knowing smile.

    Hyson had nothing to say regarding that. Even he knew just how simr he and Raelle could get. He silently drank the soup from the bowl in his hand.

    "Ah! Grandpa, where is mum?" asked Hyson as he suddenly recalled that he didn''t find his mother at home and this was the only ce he could think of where his mother would go on a weekend.

    "She went out with Chenyan," replied Grandfather Xiang with a strange expression.

    Hyson frowned at him slightly, "Obviously, I already know that only Yanyan can drag my homebody mum out of the house. But where did those beautifuldies go?"

    "Just wait here," was Grandfather Xiang''s response. "You''ll know once theye back in the evening."

    Hyson ced his elbow on Grandfather Xiang''s shoulder as he wiggled his brow inquisitively, "Grandpa, what''s up? Why so mysterious?"

    Grandfather Xiang tried to stifle hisughter as he said, "Your Yanyan has found a new hobby for herself and she had managed to drag your mother along. Just wait patiently. You''ll love the show once theye back in the evening."

    Hyson felt itchy now that he heard only half of this mystery, "Aiya! Now, I''m even more curious!" He stood up and said, "I''m gonna go and look for Ellie. She''ll definitely be able to distract me."

    "It''s still raining!" shouted Grandfather Xiang.

    "It''s just drizzling," retorted Hyson. "It''s beautiful weather. Don''t worry, I''ll still take an umbre." He looked back to shout over his shoulder, "Besides, Ellie lives next door! It''s not even that far."

    As always, Hyson ran away as fast as he came. He seemed to be floating on the wind. Flying from one ce to another.

    "This kid..." Grandfather Xiang sighed out.

    "Brother Yu," called out Grandmother Zhai. "Whose son is he?"

    "Why are you so curious about that sister-inw?" inquired Grandfather Xiang with a raise of his brow.

    Grandmother Zhai tried to hide her curiosity as sheughed it off saying, "Nothing. It''s just that he seems like a good kid."

    Although Xiang Tianyu didn''t buy her excuse, he still said, "His mother will be joining us for dinner. You can meet her then."

    "And what about his father?" This question came from Zhai Feiyang which surprised Xiang Tianyu a little but he didn''t let it show on his face.

    "He doesn''t have one," was the only response Grandfather Xiang was willing to give. He wouldn''t go into details regarding this matter. After all, he didn''t like it whenever people inquired about Hyson''s father. To him, it was enough to know that Hyson had a beautiful mother. The rest really didn''t matter.

    Both Zhai Feiyang and his wife shared a look and found the same question in each other''s gaze. But they both didn''t voice it out for now. They had decided to wait for the evening to meet Hyson''s mother.

 Chapter 159 - Winning Side

    "Wife, I thought you said no work at home," said Shui Xian as he walked towards his wife.

    Currently, the family of three was gathered inside the sitting area which was like an extended building with three ss walls overlooking the beautiful garden. And because of the rain, today the scene from here looked beautiful and calming.

    While Shui Koshing was reading a book, Raelle was looking through some data while Shui Xian had juste back after instructing the kitchen staff about what to cook in this weather. Even now, he was holding a te of snacks as he sat down beside his wife with his one arm draped over her shoulder.

    He brought one over to her mouth, "Try some."

    Raelle parted her lips and took a bite before telling him, "I''m not working. I''m just helping someone."

    "Helping someone is different than working?" inquired Shui Xian with amusement dancing in his eyes.

    Raelle nodded her head, "It''s not my work. So, isn''t it different?"

    Shui Xian shook his head at her and leaned his head against hers as he asked, "So, what are you helping with?"

    Raelle showed him the data on her iPad and the documents on her side as she exined to him, "Cloe recently learned about how high profiting the entertainment circle is. Someone has given her a few proposals to invest in movies. She isn''t able to decide which one to choose. So, she asked me for a suggestion."

    "Oh," responded Shui Xian.

    "Is our Raelle quite familiar with the investment in movies?" inquired Shui Koshing.

    "No," replied Raelle honestly. "I have never been interested in this field."

    "Then how are you gonna help her?" asked Shui Xian.

    "With my urate judgment," replied Raelle. "My calctions never go wrong. That''s why they call me the investment monster." She took a pause and went on, "Besides, just because I have no experience in this field, doesn''t mean I can''t make an urate judgment. As I just researched, a blockbuster movie depends on several factors. A good story, a good actor, and a good director are not enough. Every single person ys a role in the sess of the movie even if that person is a lighting assistant. It''s just any other business, every single employee matters."

    "Our Raelle is absolutely right," said Shui Koshing. "I believe in you, daughter."

    Raelle offered him a small smile before she looked at her husband and asked, "Why aren''t you saying anything? Do you disagree with me?"

    Shui Xian shook his head before he dropped his head on her shoulder and said, "How can I disagree? Don''t you know it''s a crime to disagree with your wife?" He pinched her nose as he went on, "Especially when the wife is Raelle Xiang. As for why I''m not saying anything, that''s because I like listening to you. So, you continue, I''m all ears."

    Raelle stared at him for a moment in silence before she turned her attention back to the work she was doing. Meanwhile, Shui Xian continued to feed her the snacks with his own hands steadily. And since Raelle didn''t refuse him, he also didn''t stop.

    "Hubby, won''t you offer some to B¨¤?"

    Shui Xian''s hand paused as he moved his eyes towards his father. Shui Koshing lifted his eyes up from the book in his hand and looked at his daughter-inw as he said, "Indeed, it''s always daughters who care about their fathers. Sons are like debts of past lives. Extremely thankless!" He pretended to wipe his non-existent tears as he went on, "Even my son has forgotten all about me."

    Shui Xian gave his father a look. "B¨¤, can you me me?" Shui Koshing raised his brows at his son who went on, "With such a beautiful wife, only an idiot would want to pay attention to anything else."

    Shui Koshing''s lips twitched at his son''s shameless remark but he couldn''t even refute those words. So, he could only sigh inwardly.

    "Son,tely, you''ve been talking a lot," remarked Shui Koshing.

    "Isn''t that a good thing?" retorted Shui Xian.

    "It is," replied Shui Koshing with happiness shining in his eyes. How could he be not happy about this progress? He was more than happy.

    "Have some," finally Shui Xian offered some snacks to his father as well. "Before you put thebel of being unfilial on my head."

    Shui Koshing red at his son before taking a spring roll from the te with the chopsticks.

    "B¨¤, didn''t you say Yanjun''s grandparents are gonnae today?" inquired Shui Xian as he recalled the reason why his father had asked them to stay at home over the weekend.

    Shui Koshing''s brows knitted slightly, "That''s what I was told. Maybe they can''te because of the rain." He took a brief pause before adding, "But if they weren''ting, they''d have informed me beforehand. So, perhaps, they''d being a littleter." He looked at his son and inquired, "Why? Do you want to go out?"

    Shui Xian shrugged his shoulders, "Where can we go in this weather? I don''t even want to get out of my bed in this kind of weather."

    "Then what are you doing here? Go back to your bed."

    "Tell my wife to go back with me. I''ll be lonely without her."

    "If you want to go, go by yourself," said Shui Koshing with slight unhappiness. "My daughter is here to apany me. I won''t ask her to bezy as you."

    Shui Xian tutted at his father saying, "You really have chosen your side."

    "I always choose the winning side," replied Shui Koshing as he gave his son a look which clearly told Shui Xian that even his father could see how he was the losing party in this marriage. Shui Xian didn''t even feel wrong for being looked down on by his own father since even he knew between his wife and him, he was definitely the one losing right now.

    After all, it was him whose feelings were all over the ce because of his wife. And the said wife looked too unperturbed. What a tragedy!

 Chapter 160 - Not Exciting Enough

    Recently, Shui Koshing had been noticing how sticky his son was bing. Even when Shui Xian hadn''t changed into a cold businessman and was a brilliant artist, he wasn''t as clingy as he was now. If he wasn''t working, one could easily find Shui Xian fluttering around his wife but just as Master Xian had said, who could me him?

    "Master Xian, there is a guest outside asking for the Lady of the house."

    The attention of both the Shui father and son went towards the housemaid who informed them about the guest.

    "Who is it? Did you ask for their name?" questioned Shui Xian.

    "It''s a young man," replied the housemaid. She looked flustered as she added, "I forgot to ask his name."

    "Let him in," this voice belonged to Raelle. "Before Hyson starts shouting at the door, just let hime inside."

    "Hyson?" repeated Shui Xian with furrowed brows. "How are you sure it''s Hyson? Did he tell you he''lle to visit today?"

    Raelle shook her head, "No, he didn''t."

    "Then...?"

    Before Shui Xian could ask further, he heard the familiar voice of Hyson, "There is no other young man who woulde to look for her. Except for yours truly, Hyson!"

    Shui Xian stood up to give Hyson a brotherly hug. Both of them met like good brothers who had known each other for years. Forget about Hyson''s enthusiasm to see Shui Xian, even thetter was quite ted to see Hyson here.

    Hyson tilted his head to look towards his best friend whose eyes didn''t even shift away from the iPad in her hands for even one second. "Ellie, how about a hug or a kiss? Aren''t you happy to see me?"

    "I already allowed you to enter my family home, isn''t that enough to show how happy I am to see you here?"

    Hyson snorted at her reply, "Oh, your highness, I''m so honored by the favor you bestowed on me that my tears are about to fall."

    "With such acting skills, you might really get somewhere," retorted Raelle. Hyson''s lips parted to strike back but she didn''t give him a chance to do so as she looked at Shui Koshing and said, "B¨¤, that''s my best friend, Yue Fai. I apologize if hecks some manners." Then she gave her best friend a look, "Don''t you know how to greet the elders of the house? Where are your manners as a guest?"

    Hyson gaped at her in disbelief before he shook his head and turned to Shui Koshing with a beautiful smile. "Hello, Uncle! It''s an honor to meet you! Looking at you, I can finally understand where Xian Ge got his good genes from."

    "Hyson, you''re going overboard with ttering," Raelle chimed in.

    "Who is ttering here?" Hyson shot back at her unhappily. "I''m being very honest right now. But a dull soul like yours won''t understand such stuff so continue to study the data in silence." He stopped paying attention to her as he looked back at Shui Koshing, "I''m really sorry, Uncle! My best friend is a bit slow with humans. I wish she could understand human interactions as well as she can understand the numbers."

    Shui Koshingughed happily at Hyson''s remarks, "You, youngd are really funny. Come,e, have a seat already. Someone bring some tea for our guest."

    "There is no need for that," said Hyson.

    While others thought he was just being polite, Raelle told them, "There really is no need for any tea. He just drank a soup. I can still smell the medicinal odor on him."

    Hyson ran a hand through his hair, "Your bloody nose really is a danger to me." Then he smiled at Shui Koshing again and continued, "Actually, she is right. Grandpa just made me drink a soup. So, there is no need for tea for now."

    "Oh, you went to see Opa?" inquired Shui Xian.

    "Yup!" replied Hyson. "I was nning on spending my Saturday with him but he had some guests. I didn''t want to intrude so I tacitly took my leave toe and find my best friend."

    "Why do I think that you came to see my husband instead of me?"

    Hyson smirked at his best friend, "I love to see that you have found some self-awareness, Ellie."

    Shui Xian wrapped around his wife''s shoulder and gave Hyson a look saying, "Xiao Fai, don''t try to insult my wife while I am right here."

    "Oooo... Protective husband, eh?"

    Shui Xian proudly jutted out his chin, "Any doubt?"

    "Youngd, why do you look so familiar?" asked Shui Koshing after he was done observing Hyson''s face for a moment in silence. He thought that Hyson looked familiar.

    "B¨¤, that''s because Yue Fai is a celebrity," Shui Xian informed his father. "His stage name is Hyson. You must have seen him on tv. In fact, he had done quite a few endorsements. Besides, his face isn''t something people could forget easily."

    "Xian Ge, was that apliment?"

    "Of course," was Shui Xian''s response. "Don''t you already know that you''re handsome? I believe your millions of fans must tell you that all the time."

    Hyson looked at Raelle as he told him, "But your wife doesn''t call me handsome anymore."

    "Oh, why?"

    "Because you''re more handsome," this reply came from Raelle herself who stared at Shui Xian.

    Master Xian was stunned frozen by that one remark. It wasn''t even his first time hearing thatpliment from his wife but why was the impact getting bigger and bigger with each time? He never thought of himself to be a vain person but why did he feel so excited with suchpliments from her?!

    "Ellie, stop forgetting the old beauty just because you have the new one in your arms."

    "I didn''t forget you," replied Raelle. "You''re handsome. Just a little less than my husband."

    "It was better if you hadn''t said that at all!"

    "Youngd, you shoulde more often," said Shui Koshing happily. "I have never seen my daughter talking like this before."

    "It took me years to learn the art of annoying her," Hyson proudly told him as if it was his huge aplishment. "Oh, by the way, Ellie, do you know who is here to meet Grandpa?"

    "Who is it?"

    "Your ex blind date''s grandparents!"

    "You can simply say that Opa''s best friend is here to see him."

    "That statement isn''t exciting enough!"

    Shui Koshing''s attention was caught by their conversation as he asked, "Uncle Feiyang is at Uncle Yu''s ce?" Hyson nodded in reply. "No wonder, it''s taking him so long toe here."

 Chapter 161 - Not The End Of The World

    Hyson spent a few hours with Raelle''s family and Shui Koshing became instantly attached to him. He had been talking to Hyson for hours and still wasn''t tired. He thought it was because Hyson was young and it was because of that he had plenty to discuss with him. An old man like him definitely found it interesting to talk to youngsters.

    Especially since his own son had long started acting like an elderly. He could hardly talk to Shui Xian in such afortable and light-hearted manner. Since Shui Xian always had heavy topics to discuss with him. In fact, he found talking to Raelle even better than talking to his own son.

    Shui Xian looked at his fatherughing out so happily and whispered to his wife, "Your best friend is really something. I haven''t seen my father being so carefree in a long while now."

    "Yanyan says, Hyson''s innate talent is how easily manages to get chummy with elders around him."

    Shui Xian gave a nod of acknowledgment. He had no doubt in those words any longer. He had never seen his father finding such an instant connection with a stranger before.

    "Now, I''m really curious to listen to all your music," said Shui Koshing as his gaze had turned gentler towards Hyson.

    "I''m a pop star," said Hyson. "Do you really want to hear such type of music? I thought you''d like bads or ssical music."

    "How old do you think I am?" retorted Shui Koshing. "I don''t understand the art of music and that''s why I never found a deep connection with my own son who was deeply in love with music. I''m a person who can listen to anything as long as the melody and lyrics are able to resonate well with my mood."

    Hyson gave him a thumbs up, "That''s a beautiful philosophy. I don''t know why people think music is too deep. It''s such a simplenguage that removes the barriers of age, cultures, and evennguage. Yet people have made it into apetition now."

    "When am I getting a signed copy then?"

    "Whenever you want," said Hyson. "In fact, Ellie has all the first signed copies. You can get them from her."

    "Those are her albums," said Shui Koshing. "I won''t steal stuff from my own daughter now."

    "Aiya! But it''s not like she ever even opened those albums!"

    "I also don''t understand this art of music," said Raelle in her defense.

    "Ellie, are you sure you chose the right husband then?"

    Raelle looked at Shui Xian and nodded her head in confirmation, "I chose the right husband. There is no doubt. Just because our interests don''t match doesn''t mean he and I are not right for each other. You as the third person really can''t pass judgments on my rtionship."

    Shui Xian smiled at her before he ced his hand on her head and pulled her head over to kiss her head gently. "My wife sure has all the right words."

    "Oh, that''s because I''m the right person for you," said Raelle without any change in her expressions.

    "And here she goes being narcissistic again," remarked Hyson. "Learn to be humble."

    "I have a humble best friend like you topensate for theck of humbleness in my life."

    Hyson almost choked on air at her words and facepalmed himself. "Uncle Shing, are you sure you like this daughter-inw of yours?"

    Shui Koshing gave him a displeased look, "Yue Fai, that''s my daughter. Be careful of your words."

    Hyson tutted, "Even this family is protective."

    "As if you aren''t protective when ites to her," said Shui Xian.

    Hyson gave him a toothy grin, "That''s my best friend. She is best for me. Obviously, I''d be protective of her." He was quite pleased with himself as he asked, "Ellie, do you know what new hobby Yanyan picked up? She even dragged my mum along. I''m having a very uneasy feeling about it. Especially because Tianyu was being too mysterious about it."

    "Yanyan did tell me that she found something interesting to do and it''s quite fun but she didn''t tell me the details."

    "She didn''t tell or you didn''t bother asking?"

    "I didn''t ask."

    Hyson shook his head at her, "How can you be so indifferent? Do you have any idea how many ants of curiosity are crawling within my heart right now? Who is supposed to help me now?"

    "Wait patiently," was Raelle''s in response. "You''ll eventually know what those beautifuldies are up to."

    "As if I have any other option," retorted Hyson. His phone chimed and he rummaged it out of his pocket and read the text. "Ellie, Grandpa is inviting your whole family over for dinner. He said since his friend had visited his home for the first time, he can''t let him go without a meal. But since his friend already had ns to have a meal with your family, he is refusing to stay. To solve this issue, he is asking you to go over."

    He suddenly stood up and tugged at Shui Xian''s arm saying, "Xian Ge, get dressed. Hurry up!"

    "What''s the hurry?" Shui Xian was baffled by his reaction.

    "We are having barbeque tonight!" announced Hyson excitedly. "Isn''t that an urgent matter? Go and get dressed."

    Raelle held her husband''s other hand to stop him, "He is dressed appropriately." Then she looked at Shui Koshing and asked, "B¨¤, are we going over there for dinner?"

    "Why are you asking me?"

    "You''re the elder of the house."

    Shui Koshing paused for a moment before he smiled at her, "The orders came from the eldest of our family. Who can refuse Uncle Yu? Of course, we are going over."

    Hyson put an arm over Raelle''s shoulder as he said, "Ellie, you won''t ask whether I got the role in that movie or not?"

    "If you don''t want to tell me, why would I ask?"

    Hyson smiled at her, "I actually didn''t hear anything from that side yet."

    "Are you anxious?"

    Hyson shook his head, "Nope! Since the time you sent me that cake, I realized I don''t have anything to be anxious about. It''s just one role. It isn''t the end of the world!"

    "Let''s go, kids!" came Shui Koshing''s voice who came back after changing his clothes. "Let''s not make the elders wait."

    "Are we walking over there or driving?" inquired Hyson.

    "It''s just next door!" said Shui Xian. He took an umbre from the housemaid and pulled his wife with him saying, "We are definitely walking over in this beautiful weather."

    Hyson''s lips twitched seeing this married couple, "Xian Ge, I just realized, you''re really good at flirting. And you don''t let a single chance go."

 Chapter 162 - A Different World

    When everyone entered the house, Shui Koshing first went to greet the elders. "Uncle Yang, didn''t you promise toe over to my ce? How did you end up here?"

    Zhai Feiyang looked at histe best friend''s son and smiled gently, "Since Tianyu is your neighbor, I thought it''d be better to have everyone here together."

    "Excuses!" muttered Shui Koshing but didn''t continue this topic and turned to greet Grandmother Zhai.

    Since the time his own father died, his father''s best friends, Xiang Tianyu and Zhai Feiyang had taken the ce of his father in his life. And that''s why he was reallyfortable with these two elders who always made him feel like family. When he was young, he found their discussion too profound but now, surprisingly, he loved listening to these two elders who had seen the world and had a deeper understanding of worldly affairs.

    As for Grandmother Zhai, her attention was instantly caught by Raelle. She couldn''t help leaning over his husband to whisper, "She looks even better in person."

    Grandfather Zhai gave her a nod as he replied, "She had inherited the best features of her father."

    Grandmother Zhai looked at Raelle carefully, "But why do I feel like she has inherited the best features of her grandmother instead?"

    "Elle..." Grandfather Xiang called out and Raelle walked over to his side in an unhurried manner. "Wow! My granddaughter is glowing right now." He nced at Shui Xian and went on, "Looks like our family''s son-inw is taking good care of you."

    Raelle didn''t forget to add in for her husband, "Yes, he does." She took Grandfather Xiang''s hand to ce on her head as she told him, "He rubs my head as you do. It seems different but it feels good. He always puts food on my bowl as Yanyan did. He always waits for me and even gets up early to give mepany on a morning run..."

    Grandfather Xiang''s eyes were gentle as he continued to listen to his granddaughter showering praises over her husband. But since she was the one saying it, there was no one who could say she was trying to make Grandfather Xiang happy or Shui Xian happy.

    "Yu, your granddaughter is ttering her own husband," said Grandfather Zhai jokingly.

    Grandfather Xiang looked at his best friend, "Our Raelle doesn''t know how to tter people. If she is the one willing to praise Xian, that means our family''s son-inw is certainly deserving of that praise. There is no lie in what she said."

    Shui Xian lowered his head, not knowing how to react. But he could only go up and take his wife back into his arms as he whispered to her, "Stop talking, wifey! I might get arrogant with how much you''re praising me around here."

    Raelle blinked at him softly before saying, "You can get arrogant. It''s alright. Your wife is Raelle Xiang. I can definitely afford to have an arrogant husband."

    Only Hyson could hear their conversation since he was standing the closest to them and while Shui Xian''s lips were twitching because of her remark, he couldn''t stop himself fromughing out loud.

    He clutched his stomach and almost fell on the ground at how much he was unable to control hisughter.

    Raelle looked at him strangely and voiced out, "Earlier he said, I chose the wrong husband. Now, I think I chose the wrong best friend."

    "Pfft!" Shui Xian covered his mouth to hide hisughter.

    Meanwhile, Hyson red at her, "Xian Ge is certainly the true gem in your life at the moment."

    "You have any doubt?" retorted Raelle leaving Hyson with no way to refute her words. "Don''t forget that my Opa selected my husband for me. And my Opa has never chosen a second best for me. He always gave me the world best! So from the very beginning, there was doubt that my husband is the best."

    "Ellie, look outside! The rain is beautiful!"

    Raelle tilted her head slightly as she looked out the window and inquired, "What is beautiful about rain?" She really didn''t know why he abruptly changed the topic but she still replied in her own way.

    Hyson patted his chest and calmed himself down. "Oh, thank God! You''re still my Ellie. For a second, I thought someone possessed your body." He stood in front of Raelle and looked into her eyes saying, "Ellie, don''t talk sweetly again. It scares me. I''m too used to the you who believes that music isn''t that deep and rain isn''t that beautiful. Let''s not change that."

    Shui Xian frowned at Hyson, "Stop telling her this nonsense. Isn''t it good if she changes a little?"

    Hyson shook his head hurriedly, "No, she can''t! If she changed, my belief in life will shake. Isn''t it enough that she made me question those beliefs already?" Then he turned to Grandfather Xiang and asked, "Tianyu, I thought we are here for a barbecue! Where is it?"

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head at Hyson, "It''s outside in the pavilion. Everything is already arranged. Let''s go out together."

    "That''s the best thing I''ve heard today," announced Hyson as he skipped his way outside. The first ones to follow him were Shui Xian and Raelle.

    As they were walking, Shui Xian looked at his wife with aplicated gaze and asked, "Wife, am I really amazing or I just seem amazing to you?"

    "You don''t believe my words?" inquired Raelle.

    "That''s the thing. I can''t seem to question your words," was Shui Xian''s response. He really couldn''t question anything she said because he knew she wholeheartedly spoke the truth without concealing anything. But the things she said about him made him feel like he was truly awesome and even he didn''t know that.

    He could only sigh inwardly as he thought about how the world seemed like a whole different ce in his wife''s eyes. Raelle saw the world differently. So, perhaps, she was looking at him differently as well.

 Chapter 163 - One-Time Affair

    As Mother Yue followed Mu Chenyan out of the car, she held her hand to get her attention as she told her through hand signs, ''Next time, keep me out of your shenanigans!''

    "What do you mean by shenanigans?" retorted Mu Chenyan with a touch of hurt in her voice. "I only took you out to have fun."

    Mother Yue looked at Mu Chenyan''s appearance and closed her eyes before taking a deep breath. ''You might not love your life but I do.''

    "I also love my life," replied Mu Chenyan. "Just keep quiet. If you won''t say anything we won''t get into trouble at all. All you have to do is keep your mouth shut."

    ''My mouth is already shut,'' was Mother Yue''s response. ''And even if I want to say anything, I can''t.''

    Mu Chenyan frowned at Mother Yue with a displeased look in her eyes, "How many times I have to remind you to never talk about yourself like this? I don''t find you any different than other people."

    Mother Yue bit her lip, ''I was just joking.''

    "Don''t joke around with me like this," warned Mu Chenyan. "You might befortable to joke around like this, I be uneasy when you speak like this."

    Mother Yue patted her shoulder before telling her, ''Don''t get too emotional. Let''s just go inside now.'' She paused for a while before she added, ''I''m telling you, this hobby of yours is dangerous. Don''t overindulge in it.''

    "Danger is the new fun, darling!" said Mu Chenyan as she pulled Mother Yue against her side.

    ''Why do I feel like you''re acting like a mother who has finally decided to let loose after marrying off her daughter?''

    Mu Chenyanughed out at her, ''I also feel that way.''

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head and entered the house. Learning from the maids that everyone was having dinner in the back garden, both of thesedies also went to the back garden. They could instantly hear the chatter andughter along with the smell of delicious meat skewers.

    "Elle!" Mu Chenyan instantly called out as soon as she found her favorite person in the crowd.

    Raelle also turned her head when she heard someone calling her and paused for a whole minute. Her eyes were carefully looking at Mu Chenyan''s figure from the top of her head to the tip of her toes. And her sudden silence was justified since everyone else also forgot to eat,ugh or talk when they gazed at Mu Chenyan.

    And the reason behind their baffled looks was Mu Chenyan''s appearance. She was wearing a bright-colored pantsuit and her face was painted with excessive makeup. Even her long hair couldn''t be seen as she had been wearing a wig. She looked no different than a man right now.

    Soon, Raelle looked behind her and paused again. Because if Mu Chenyan was giving off the air of an unrestrained young man then Mother Yue looked like an innocent beauty. She didn''t know know what kind of appearance it was but it made Mother Yue seempletely unlike herself. She had bangs, she wore gray-colored lenses, her face was also a masterpiece of makeup artistry since all her original features were perfectly concealed in this way.

    Hyson choked on the kebab he had yet to swallow and drank a whole ss of water to allow that kebab to go down his throat. He looked at these twodies and then looked at Grandfather Xiang. "When you said they are up to an interesting hobby, you meant cosying?"

    Grandfather Xiang nodded his head and Hyson fell back on his chair. He almost couldn''t recognize his own mother just now.

    "Cosying?" inquired Raelle as she also looked at these twodies.

    Mu Chenyan grinned at her favorite person saying, "I recently learned that it''s a really interesting thing. So, today, I dragged our Yue to a cosy party with me. Yue made our outfits and even did our makeup. Too good, right?"

    Raelle stared into Mother Yue''s eyes, "You agreed with her?"

    Mother Yue could only shrug her shoulders and her expressions changed when she finally noticed the rest of the people in the pavilion. For a moment, she couldn''t hide her feelings. But it was a good thing that her skills were too good. Right now, even her own son had a difficult time recognizing her, it was not possible for others to find her familiar.

    "As always, Chenyan still has the most entric ideas to enjoy life," said Grandmother Zhai with a smile on her face. She was also dumbfounded for a while but she was familiar with Mu Chenyan''s entricity. So, she quickly adjusted her mood ordingly.

    "Aunt Zhai," called Mu Chenyan. "It''s so good to see you here." She grinned at her as she went on, "Elder Xiang says, life is a one-time affair. One should enjoy it to the fullest."

    "But is this your age to act like this?" Grandfather Zhai chimed in.

    Mu Chenyan lovingly caressed Raelle''s face as she said, "My Elle says, age is not a barrier. If I want to enjoy my life, I should stop letting people tell me how to do it. It''s my happiness, not theirs. And only I know what makes me happy."

    "Then are you happy?" inquired Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan gave her a resolute and content look, "I''m very happy."

    Raelle went back to sit down with her husband, "Then it''s okay. You can do whatever you want if you''re happy."

    Hyson finally found his spirit as he dragged his mother close and made her sit beside him saying, "Mum, how can you let her do this to you?"

    Mother Yue knitted her brows at her son, ''I don''t good?''

    Hyson almost rolled his eyes at his mother but didn''t dare to be disrespectful to her, "How is that possible? My mum was always the best, still is, and always will be the best." Then he had a conflicted look in his eyes as he gazed at his mother and went on, "But if you look like this, who would believe that you''re my mother? You''re looking more like me younger sister!"

    Mother Yue silently chuckled at what her son was actually worried about. She forgot all about her anxiousness as she facepalmed herself.

 Chapter 164 - Canâ€™t Give-Up

    "Are you sure this is your mother, Yue Fai?"

    Hyson''s face twitched when he heard that question from Shui Koshing. Just as he had been worried, his mother looked more like his younger sister at the moment.

    "Uncle, she is my mum!"

    Shui Koshing stared at Mother Yue''s face who lowered her face even further. She was avoiding his eyes as she gave him a nod to greet him which made Shui Koshing''s brows knit up a little.

    "Brother Shing, she is my best friend. And Yue, he is our Elle''s father-inw," the job of introduction was taken by Mu Chenyan who was excitingly introducing Mother Yue to everyone. "That''s Elder Zhai and his wife. They are our family friends."

    While Mother Yue continued to smile softly while keeping her head lowered. If she knew she''d have to face these people, she''d have never followed Mu Chenyan back here. Now, she felt guilty for hiding like this from these people. But she really didn''t want to be recognized by any of them. And even if her appearance had been altered because of this cosying, she was still anxious in her heart.

    "You have a good son," said Shui Koshing as he looked at Hyson appreciatingly. One could see his sincerity through the tone of his voice and through his eyes as well. He seemed to like Hyson a lot.

    Mother Yue''s eyes softened up and even her heart eased up when she heard himplimenting her son like this. She always felt a burst of pride and joy when people said good things about her son.

    Mu Chenyan hugged her shoulders saying, "Of course, he is a good son. After all, he has a good mother."

    Mother Yue shook her head at Mu Chenyan while she told her to convey her words to Shui Koshing. "Yue says, thank you."

    Shui Koshing paused momentarily when he saw Mother Yue making hand signs to talk. He had felt some familiarity with her but he couldn''t seem to recognize her very well. He had a vague image in his mind but when he noticed how Mother Yue couldn''t talk, that image turned distant. He shook his own thoughts out of his head and smiled at her gently.

    Not once did he n to bring up the topic of whether Mother Yue could talk or not. He felt it was rude and he didn''t want to talk about something that might hurt the other person.

    "I also agree with Koshing," said Grandma Zhai as she joined these twodies. "You have raised your son well. He is loveable and adorable."

    Mother Yue bit the inside of her cheeks to stop herself from showing her emotions on her face. She couldn''t let the elderlydy see her feelings. Just as she felt happy to hear thispliment from her, she also felt a little sad. She herself couldn''t understand her own conflicting feelings.

    She always found her sce in her son, so she chose to rub her son''s head before she made some hand sign and Mu Chenyan tranted it for her, "Yue said, our Yue Fai was naturally a good boy." She turned to her best friend and said, "Yue, don''tpliment him so much. He might start jumping around like a monkey."

    Mother Yue gave her a look, ''Aren''t you the first one who loves topliment him to heaven all the time?''

    Mu Chenyan coughed as she said, "Let''s not open our secrets now."

    "Her name is Yue?" inquired Grandma Zhai and Mu Chenyan nodded. "What''s her full name?"

    "Yue Yue," replied Mu Chenyan and Mother Yue''s heart clenched.

    Grandma Zhai moved ahead and looked at Mother Yue''s face carefully as she said, "I''m sorry for asking in detail. It''s just that seeing you reminded me of someone."

    "Aunt, you also thought of Yue Yue?" Shui Koshing leaned in to whisper to Grandma Zhai who sighed out heavily and nodded her head. "I also thought of her at first. But... It can''t be her, right?"

    Grandma Zhai looked back at Mother Yue who was teasing her son and said, "I''m not sure. It''s hard to recognize her in this attire. So, I can''t be certain. But she gives a very familiar feeling."

    "Our Yue Yue would never hide from us," said Shui Koshing.

    "She has been hiding for years," replied Grandma Zhai.

    Shui Koshing felt heavy in his heart, "Even if it''s like that. I really believe that if she was in front of me, she would definitely not hide from me. Not from me for sure!"

    "Someone bring a chair for Chenyan," called out Grandfather Xiang.

    "There is no need for that," said Raelle as she stood up and offered her chair to her Yanyan. "Yanyan, you can sit here."

    "I''d never take my own Elle''s seat," was Mu Chenyan''s response.

    Raelle gave her a practiced smile, "I have my personal seat now." Mu Chenyan had just opened her mouth to question when she saw Raelle sitting down naturally on Shui Xian''s thighs. She was left gaping in disbelief.

    Mu Chenyan looked at Shui Xian and found him in a simr state as she was. She fell down on the chair that she just got from Raelle and said, "Dear son, that must have been a fatal attack on your heart?"

    Shui Xian licked his lips before ncing at Mu Chenyan and nodding, "Yanyan, I have gotten quite used to these fatal attacks these days."

    Mother Yueughed silently at them as she said, ''Our Raelle is turning into a pro!''

    "What pro?" Hyson looked at her unpleasantly. "Ellie, which book have you been reading these days?"

    "Cloe suggested five titles, so I picked one to try out," replied Raelle honestly.

    "What''s the title of that book?" questioned Shui Xian. And everyone else looked at her eagerly waiting for her reply.

    "Hubby, let me spoil you!" Raelle didn''t even feel embarrassed as she announced the title of the book she''s been reading these days.

    Three people pursed their lips to hold back theirughter while Shui Xian was left in aplex mood. He caressed her head and said, "No wonder, you''ve been getting so good at this."

    "I never expected you to read such a book," was Hyson''s remark. He honestly never could associate such a book with his best friend''s expressionless face. This girl liked to read serious books. Leaning more towards educational stuff. That''s why he was dumbfounded to learn that she actually was reading a romance novel. And just from the title, he could tell it must be a dog-blood novel. "Are you even able to read it?"

    Raelle took a pause before telling him, "Honestly, no! I don''t even understand half of the things. Everything is so exaggerated and unrealistic. I really can''t read it. But Cloe said it''ll help me with my marriage life. So, I just am reading through it for now."

    Hyson chuckled at her, "More like, you''re stuck with it now. After all, you don''t like leaving halfway through. So, even if you don''t like the book, you won''t put it down unless you''vepleted it."

    Raelle leaned against the chest of Shui Xian saying, "It''s because I feel aplished when I finish a book. Reading through something you don''t like is a struggle only people like me can understand. You won''t understand it. You even leave the cinema hall once the movie is not to your liking."

    "If I don''t like it and I know it," began Hyson. "Then why should I waste my time and suffer through it? I''d rather use that time to do something that I like." He looked at his mother, "Mum, who is right here? She who doesn''t want to leave halfway through or me, who doesn''t want to waste time on a hopeless situation?"

    ''You both are right,'' was Mother Yue''s response. ''There is no need to argue.''

    Shui Xian kept rubbed the back of his wife up and down in a slow, calming manner. And Raelle didn''t stop him even once from continuing. It actually felt good to her. So, there was no need for her to stop it. Shui Xian even had his chin propped on her shoulder as he let her scent engulf his senses.

    He was truly taken aback when Raelle had suddenly decided to sit on hisp right in front of everyone else. But it wasn''t as surprising either since his wife didn''t know the concept of embarrassment at all. She did what she felt like doing without caring about the people around her.

    This unrestrained nature of hers was her biggest weapon that had been attacking the walls he had built around his heart. And now, even he wasn''t certain what she meant to him. He just knew he really liked being with her. She didn''t make his heart restless, she made it feel calm.

    And let''s not mention how he loved the fact that his wife didn''t have the habit of giving up on things. She had told him before that she''d do her best toplete the journey that she began on her own ord. And that made him realize how serious she really took this marriage with him.

 Chapter 165 - Bullies

    It was still drizzling which left a cold chill in the early spring air at night. However, the people under the pavilion could really not feel it at all since they had a live barbecue stand not that far from them. The tempting aroma of the kebabs was enough to make anyone drool.

    Adding on the best quality wine to go with that meal, made the atmosphere even more lively. While Grandfather Xiang entertained his best friend and his wife while the rest of the people were gathered in their own group.

    "Yue, try some of this," said Mu Chenyan as she put a meat skewer on Mother Yue''s te.

    Mother Yue was already hardly able to swallow anything because of how Shui Koshing had been scrutinizing her. She had even gone as far as to mess up her hairstyle to hide her face. Her heart was feeling really guilty. Since Shui Koshing was thest person she wanted to hide from like a thief.

    And if the Zhai family''s elders weren''t here, she might have not hidden like this from Shui Koshing. But since those elders were present, she had no other choice. She could only bury her guilty conscience and keep acting like she didn''t know any of them. Besides, even if she revealed her identity, she won''t gain anything and instead might have to lose something really precious to her.

    She couldn''t even dream of losing her most precious thing.

    "Chenyan, I thought you only care about our Raelle," Shui Koshing frowned at Mu Chenyan taking care of Mother Yue like a kid. In fact, he had long stopped suspecting the identity of Mother Yue. Now, his attention was on how Mu Chenyan treated Mother Yue.

    As the ghost of being the troublemaker and a hooligan took over Mu Chenyan, she hugged Mother Yue''s neck saying, "This beauty is mine. As a gentleman, it''s my responsibility to take care of her."

    Mother Yue red at her before she held her hand and threw her off of her.

    "Beauty, don''t be angry!"

    Shui Koshing chuckled at Mu Chenyan, "Chenyan, you''re looking for a beating right now."

    Mu Chenyan was unfazed as she shrugged her shoulders, "Brother Shing, every beauty is temperamental. A bit of coaxing can work like a wonder."

    "Yanyan," Hyson spoke up. "Give up already! My mum won''t fall for your tricks."

    Mu Chenyan gave Hyson a nce, "Yue Fai, you have no idea how hard your mum has fallen for my tricks. Ouch!" That remark got her a punch from Mother Yue. "Okay, okay. I won''t say anything." She took a deep breath and gazed at Shui Koshing, "Bro, you see, you took my daughter from me. Your son has already taken over my job. Now, I have to look for someone to take care of. Otherwise, it feels too empty."

    "Don''t me me now," responded Shui Koshing. "I didn''t take your daughter from you. I just took my daughter home."

    Mother Yue smiled at his words and Mu Chenyan was left with no response to that. Mother Yue looked at Mu Chenyan, ''He is right. Our Elle just went to her home now. What are you whining about?''

    Mu Chenyan pouted at her, "Yue, how can you take his side? I''m your best friend!"

    Mother Yue didn''t bother paying any attention to her. She was already quite displeased with how Mu Chenyan had tricked her today.

    "Xian," Grandma Zhai came over to their side. "I have an invitation for tomorrow''s art exhibition at the art center. How about you take your wife there?"

    Shui Xian looked at Raelle and took the invitation from Grandma Zhai, "Thanks, grandma!"

    "As someone whose passion is art," began Shui Koshing. "Shouldn''t you be going to that exhibition yourself?"

    "My daughter-inw is going there with her friends, so I''m unwilling to go," was Grandma Zhai''s straightforward reply.

    Shui Koshing nced at her, "Aunty, is it alright to show your dislike for your daughter-inw so obviously? It''s been years. Even your grandson is already at the age of marriage now and you are still over your dislike for your daughter-inw?"

    Grandma Zhai rubbed her face saying, "Koshing, just because you have a good daughter-inw, doesn''t mean everyone is as fortunate as you. Some of us are stuck with scheming women."

    Mother Yue pursed her lips when she heard Grandma Zhai''s words.

    "Elder Xiang!" Mu Chenyan instantly called out. "See! This is the reason why I don''t want to marry. This inw''s drama is not for me."

    Grandma Zhai chuckled at Mu Chenyan''s reaction as she said, "Darling if you had been my daughter-inw, I''d have already died from a heart attack."

    "Am I that bad in your eyes?"

    Grandma Zhai shook her head, "It''s not that you''re a bad person. It''s that you have dangerous hobbies. Half of my life would be drained just worrying about your safety. And the other half would be gone praying for your safety."

    Mu Chenyan scratched her head sheepishly, "I have changed now."

    "A leopard can sleep, can''t change its spots," was Grandma Zhai''s reaction. "Your track record isn''t something to brag about. I have seen Brother Tianyu almost losing his mind worrying about your safety."

    Mu Chenyan coughed to hide her secrets being exposed like this before the younger generation. It''s not like she didn''t know what kind of troubles she had caused for Elder Xiang. It was just that although Elder Xiang was known as a strict person, he was actually really patient with people he loved. And Mu Chenyan happened to be part of those people whom he cared about and loved.

    That was one of the reasons she had been able to act so unreasonably in her teenage years. She was also a tyrant in everyone''s eyes. There were hardly any aristocratic families who would want a daughter-inw like her who loved to find troubles for herself.

    And once learned of her legacy, it was even more unfathomable to believe that someone like Raelle was actually raised by someone like Mu Chenyan. These two had nothing inmon. Except for the fact that they both could be considered bullies in their own ways.

 Chapter 166 - Cover It For Me

    "Yanyan, just how bad is your reputation?" asked Hyson with a curious look in his eyes. He had heard things from Raelle but his best friend had a bad habit, she''d never go into details that weren''t necessary. And since Raelle believed Mu Chenyan''s past couldn''t define her present, she''d never talk about that past in detail even if she knew everything in detail.

    "Apparently, really bad," was Mu Chenyan''s reply. "I also didn''t think people would remember someone troublesome like me for so long."

    "I suddenly feel like I''m seeing you in a whole new light,"mented Hyson not hiding his feelings at all.

    "Yue Fai, you shouldn''t look up to her," warned Shui Koshing like an elder.

    "Don''t worry, uncle. I won''t bring any trouble to my mum."

    "It seems like this little one really loves his mother," said Grandma Zhai.

    "I do!" responded Hyson resolutely.

    "Wife, why are you quiet?" asked Shui Xian when he noticed how his wife had been silent all this time.

    Raelle wiped her face with a napkin and took a sip of the wine from the goblet before turning her face towards Shui Xian, "I was eating."

    "Now, you''re done?" inquired Shui Xian and Raelle nodded her head. "Then now you can talk to me?"

    "Yes," replied Raelle. She put the goblet of wine down and turned her body to wrap her arms around Shui Xian''s neck. "What do you want to talk about?"

    Shui Xian kissed the corner of her lips and said, "Your wine is tastier than mine."

    "I won''t fall for it again," said Raelle making Shui Xian chuckled at her response.

    "By the way, Chenyan, what do you n to do now?" asked Grandma Zhai curiously. "Brother Tianyu said you''re finally willing to leave the home. Don''t tell me you''re just gonna cosy."

    "What''s wrong with cosy?" retorted Mu Chenyan. "It''s also a form of art. You should appreciate it."

    "I''m not looking down at it. But at the end of the day, it''s just a hobby. Don''t you want to do something else?"

    Mu Chenyan looked over at Grandfather Xiang, "Elder Xiang told me to get out of the house and to something. He said we have so much money, I should do something with it. So, I decided to splurge it."

    "Isn''t that money for your granddaughter?" questioned Grandfather Zhai who heard this discussion.

    "My granddaughter is richer than me," replied Grandfather Xiang. "And she won''t take my money. So, I honestly want Chenyan to enjoy herself. It''s not like we can take all of this to the grave."

    "Brother Tinayu always has unique thinking,"mented Grandma Zhai. "But you''re right. Your granddaughter is exceptional. The one thing shecks can never be money."

    "Exactly!" said Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan simultaneously. Since the time Raelle had joined the workforce, she had never used the money that came from her grandfather. They both were clear about how capable she was. They didn''t need recognition from others for their Raelle.

    "Tianyu, I think we should take our leave now," said Grandfather Zhai as he stood up and took his wife''s hand in his own. "It''s gettingte."

    "It isn''t thatte," Grandfather Xiang pointed out. He hadn''t met his best friend in a long time and that''s why he had been happy having someone to talk to. It''s not like he no one to talk to but there was always something special between friends. He didn''t even realize when the day had turned into the night while he spent that time with his best friend.

    "Brother Tianyu, we have moved to the same city again. We''ll be seeing each other often now," said Grandma Zhai. "And once our Junes back from the battlefield, I''ll drag him to you first. So, don''t be angry anymore. He''ll definitely apologize to you."

    "Then you better drag your grandson over, I also want to see how you''ve raised him."

    "Don''t doubt in my abilities. I have also personally raised an exceptional grandson," said Grandma Zhai proudly.

    Mother Yue tugged at Mu Chenyan''s arm as she asked, ''Why have they been talking about their grandson but not their son? Shouldn''t their grandson be raised by his own parents?''

    Mother Yue held her breath as she waited for Mu Chenyan to answer her questions. She was wondering if something had happened inside the Zhai family. Back in the day, Grandma Zhai loved to brag about her son but now, she was only talking about her grandson. It made her feel strange. She didn''t want to think negatively but a lot of ideas had been running through her brain.

    Mu Chenyan lowered her voice to answer her, "Their grandson, Yanjun is raised by his grandparents. His parents..." She shook her head, "Forget about that. Just know that Aunty Zhai loves her grandson more than her own son because she personally raised him since he was a kid."

    When Mu Chenyan didn''t exin Yanjun''s parents'' situation, it made her feel restless but she could probe about it. If she did, with Mu Chenyan''s observation skills, she''d definitely notice something odd. So, Mother Yue decided to just stay quiet.

    Even though she couldn''t learn why Zhai Yanjun was raised by his grandparents, at least she knew that he grew up in love. That was all that mattered.

    ''Should we also leave?'' Mother Yue looked at her son.

    Mu Chenyan held her arm saying, "No way! You''re staying tonight as you promised. And Yue Fai, don''t you dare try to run. Don''t you still have to y a game of chess with Elder Xiang?"

    Hyson smiled at her, "Who said I''m leaving?" He walked over to Grandfather Xiang who looked a little down with a departure of his best friend and held his arm saying, "What do you say, Tianyu? Should we bet something grand tonight?"

    "Are you willing to lose big?" Grandfather Xiang ruffled his hair softly.

    "Don''t worry about that, my best friend is rich!"

    "You''re using my money to bet?" questioned Raelle as she turned her face towards her best friend.

    "Enjoy your time with your husband. It''s good weather. I''ll let you know how much money I''ve lost. Cover it for me!" Saying that Hyson dragged Grandfather Xiang inside the house without waiting for Raelle''s reply.

    Before Mother Yue could say anything, Mu Chenyan held her hands saying, "Sis, let the friends have their fun. You and I should stay out of it."

 Chapter 167 - Revolutionary Discovery

    Just as Hyson had said, he did go to y chess with Grandfather Xiang and even Shui Koshing followed them to watch the game. He had been losing badly from the old man, so he wanted to see how badly Hyson would lose. It''s not that he wanted Hyson to lose, after all, there was indeed a small hope in his heart to see the old man taking a loss. But then again, he knew how good Grandfather Xiang was at ying chess.

    As for those two beautifuldies who seemed to be up to no good for today, Mother Yue had dragged Mu Chenyan to her room. And although Mu Chenyan found Mother Yue''s flustered appearance quite suspicious, she didn''t try to be nosy. She knew if Yue wanted to share anything with her, she wouldn''t hesitate to do so.

    Besides, all these people there was a pair of newlyweds who seemed to be acting more like an old couple as they had stayed behind in the pavilion. Even after the servants cleared up everything, Shui Xian and Raelle were having a moment of their own as they drank wine while enjoying this beautiful night or more precisely, enjoying each other''s presence.

    As for why one might think that they acted like an old couple, it was not just because of howfortable they had be with each other but it was also because of how instead of talking romantically, they both were discussing random stuff rted to all kinds of fields. One might think that these two would have nothing to talk about with each other especially because of how Raelle didn''t like random gossips and how Shui Xian was an emotional mess.

    But surprisingly, they both always had way more topics that they could discuss together. Raelle was knowledgeable because of her practical knowledge, Shui Xian was understanding because of how deeply he understood human emotions. Although Shui Xian was an artistic person while Raelle was a practical one, they both still couldn''t just sit in silence with each other.

    "Wife, you really don''t think that the rain is beautiful?" asked Shui Xian as he looked at her. The rims of the wine ss touched her soft naturally red lips and the red wine slowly poured into her mouth. There was a soft light illuminating her face with the backdrop of this night. The sight was enticing and alluring, making it impossible for Shui Xian to look away from her. Not like he was ever able to move his eyes away from her face.

    "Rain is troublesome," replied Raelle in her usual manner with her most favorite words.

    "How?"

    Raelle held his gaze with her pure ck eyes that seemed to be covered with a sheen of moisture. "So many of my flights got dyed or canceled because of rain. And that in turn wasted so much time. My whole schedule had to be rearranged. Isn''t it troublesome?"

    Shui Xian propped his chin on the heel of his hand, "Oh, now I get it. You never stopped to look at the rain. How would you find it beautiful?" Raelle looked at him and for some reason, Shui Xian could understand the question in her eyes while her face gave nothing away. "You always focused on the fact that your work was being dyed. You really missed out on one of the most beautiful things that nature has to offer."

    He stood up and offered his hand to her. Raelle put the wine ss down and took his hand. He pulled her up to her feet and stood behind her. With her back pressed against his chest, he stretched out his hand to cover her eyes from behind.

    "Close your eyes and focus," he instructed her in a deep husky voice with his lips almost caressing the tip of her ears.

    Raelle didn''t question him regarding what he was trying to y with her. She instead followed his instructions obediently, "What am I supposed to focus on?"

    "On every single thing," replied Shui Xian.

    Raelle did as she was told and tried to focus on everything. Since her eyes were closed, every single sensation was heightened. However, Raelle Xiang who never found it difficult to focus on something actually had some difficulty as she tried to experience what he wanted her to. Because all her attention was focused on the sound of his breath right beside her ear. That one sound seemed to have overshadowed everything else.

    She could smell the remnants of the barbecue or the wine she just had. She couldn''t hear the sound of the rain that seemed to have started falling with vigor once again creating a melody of its own. She couldn''t feel the chill in the air but she could feel the warmth of his body that was pressing behind her.

    There was so much she could have picked up on in this weather but the sound of his breath left her incapable of doing so. It seemed like that breath was engulfing all her senses and weren''t letting even the scent of the earth reach her. It seemed like everything else around her had vanished into oblivion and all that was left was him that held her in his arms.

    "Can you hear it?"

    After a long moment of silence, Shui Xian finally broke this silence.

    Raelle truthfully answered, "I can only hear your breath beside my ear. Am I supposed to hear something else?"

    Shui Xian was momentarily left with nothing to say. He wanted her to hear the rhythm of the rain. It was his favorite weather and he wanted her to feel its beauty as well. He always found inspiration through the rain back in the day. Although it had been years since he had touched any musical instrument, his love for rain hadn''t vanished or diminished over the years.

    "Isn''t there anything else you can hear?" inquired Shui Xian expectantly.

    Raelle put his hand down and turned around to face him. She nodded her head saying, "I can hear your heartbeat." While Shui Xian was stunned, Raelle took his hand and felt his pulse. Then she ced her hand over his heart and added, "Your heartbeat is unusually fast. Why is that?"

    Shui Xian breathed out through his mouth as he smiled at her and brushed the bridge of her nose, "Isn''t it because I''m hugging you? How can my heart be at ease when you''re so close?"

    Raelle leaned her head over and purposely breathed against his ear, "So how close I have to be to get this effect?" Through the hand that she had ced on his chest, she could feel his heartbeat getting even faster and her eyes seemed to have sparkled for a moment. "I wonder..." she said before she kissed his lips.

    Shui Xian was caught unprepared as he usually did but he had gotten used to her sudden amorous attacks as well. So, he kissed her back. As their tongues ovepped, Raelle could feel his heartbeat getting slower. As the kiss grew intense, his heartbeat came to a normal rhythm as well.

    Wasn''t it supposed to be the reverse of that?

    When her lips were sucked swollen, she pulled away to catch her breath. Taking few deep breaths, she asked, "Howe your heartbeat went to normal?"

    Shui Xian smiled at her as he caressed her face with the back of his fingers saying, "It''s because when you''re home, you''d always be at ease."

    "Huh?"

    Shui Xian rubbed her head, "Baby, you won''t understand it for now."

    Raelle didn''t care whether she understood it or not. What she focused on was... "Baby? How old do you think I am?"

    Shui Xian raised his hand and showed her the five fingers of his hand.

    "I''m not five!"

    Shui Xian raised his other hand to show his other hand that had two fingers uncurled, "I meant twenty-five." He obviously won''t tell her that sometimes she really made him feel like she was a five-year-old. Her innocence could definitely rival a child.

    "I''m twenty-four though," she replied. "I''ll only turn twenty-five next year."

    Shui Xian made a face at her, "Right, you have an early birthday. So, your birthday passed even before our marriage. What a shame!"

    "Why do you look so disappointed?"

    "I couldn''t spend this birthday of yours with you," replied Shui Xian.

    "You didn''t spend thest twenty-four birthdays with me, why does this one matter?"

    Shui Xian thought about it and nodded at her, "You''re right. So, let''s make sure that we spend all theing birthdays together."

    "If you say so," replied Raelle. She didn''t look like she was taking it seriously but since she said it, she was definitely taking it seriously. She took a pause to think something before muttering to herself, "I have to record your interesting heartbeat into my experiment log. It''s a revolutionary discovery."

    Shui Xian didn''t catch what she said. He only heard the ''revolutionary discovery'' part. But seeing how her eyes were all sparkly, he didn''t bother to question her or spoil her mood. As long as she was happy, who cares what she was thinking about?

 Chapter 168 - Call Out For Help

    Shui Xian was amused to see how engrossed his wife seemed in her own thought process. She definitely loved to evaluate everything and he knew it as well. Her idea of a ''revolutionary discovery'' couldn''t be normal. That was for certain!

    He touched her forehead with his own and chuckled at her, "Let''s go home." With that, he bent down and actually picked her feet off the ground.

    "What are you doing?"

    "Taking my wife home," he replied without any change in his expression.

    "It''s raining," Raelle reminded him.

    "That''s why I need my wife to hold up an umbre for us."

    Raelle had never felt like beingzy but since she was already carried in his arms, she didn''t feel like getting down either. So, she simply held up the umbre for them as Shui Xian made his way towards their home.

    "I can walk on my own though."

    "I know," said Shui Xian. "My wife is so capable that she can make me feel useless."

    "If you''re really useless, you wouldn''t be my husband."

    Shui Xian looked at her face and smiled, "I know that as well. But there are some things, I''d like to do for my wife. It makes me feel happy."

    Just like that Shui Xian brought his wife back to their home.

    .....

    Early in the next morning, Mother Yue had decided to go back home. Although she originally nned to spend this day with Mu Chenyan, however, she changed her mind afterst night. She wanted to leave as soon as possible.

    Mu Chenyan, on the other hand, was not very happy with this decision of hers. She was hugging her pillow as she sat cross-legged on her bed and sulked like a teenager as she watched Mother Yue getting dressed.

    "How can you do this to me?" Mu Chenyan didn''t n on speaking but seeing how Mother Yue didn''t even bother asking her why she looked upset, she had to be the first one to open her mouth. "Why can''t you just stay here for one more day?"

    Mother Yue tied up her hair and paid her attention to Mu Chenyan. She actually found Mu Chenyan quite adorable even though she was really old to act in this manner. However, maybe because Mu Chenyan had never acted like this before, it made this scene feel novel.

    ''I have something to do,'' responded Mother Yue.

    Mu Chenyan didn''t say anything and just sighed out in defeat. She knew she couldn''t stop her best friend from leaving especially when the other person wanted to leave. You can never hold back someone who wants to leave, that''s what Raelle''s father once taught her.

    Suddenly thinking of something, Mother Yue came to Mu Chenyan''s side and questioned, ''Where is Raelle''s mother-inw? I didn''t see herst night.'' Mother Yue tried to sound offhanded as she tried to probe around.

    "Our Elle doesn''t have a mother-inw," replied Mu Chenyan straightforwardly. Mother Yue was startled and seeing her reaction, Mu Chenyan borated, "She died a long time ago."

    Mother Yue''s eyes widened in shock and disbelief. She sat down and held the edge of the bed tightly. She had to bit the inside of her mouth to stop herself from crying out before Mu Chenyan and making a mess of herself.

    However, she really wasn''t that good at hiding her emotions as she thought so. Because one could clearly see how much of an emotional shock she just received. And for someone like Mu Chenyan who was extremely perceptive, she had picked up the change in her emotions almost instantly.

    With trembling hands, Mother Yue questioned, ''How did she die?''

    "It was probably a car ident. I don''t know about the details though."

    Mother Yue ced a hand over her chest, feeling a hand on her shoulder she turned her head to look at Mu Chenyan.

    "If you want to cry, just do it. There is no need to hold back like this," said Mu Chenyan with a soft smile on her face. "I won''t ask the reason for your tears."

    Just those words were enough to make Mother Yue''s tears fall down hard. She hugged Mu Chenyan and let out her grief without any control. Mu Chenyan silently rubbed her hand on her back to soothe her. She didn''t question her anything. She''d be an idiot if she hadn''t figured out that Yue was somehow rted to Shui Xian''s family.

    But she was uncertain over how they were rted. However, seeing Yue''s condition right now, she couldn''t bring herself to ask either. So, she would be a good friend and silently be a support for her best friend who seemed to be like someone broke her heart.

    "That''s enough," said Mu Chenyan. "If you cried anymore, you''ll get dehydrated!"

    Mother Yue hit her shoulder for spouting nonsense and Mu Chenyan smiled to herself.

    "I''m not lying. My Elle said the same to me," told Mu Chenyan.

    On the other hand, Shui Koshing had found his way back to the Xiang house. Even though he had only left at midnightst night, he had stille back here early in the morning. No matter what he had to catch a thief today!

    "Koshing, why do you keep looking towards the stairs?" questioned Grandfather Xiang when he noticed how every minute, Shui Koshing''s eyes would look towards the stairs. "And don''t you quite enjoy having breakfast with your son and daughter-inw? Why did you run here today first thing in the morning?"

    "I definitely have my reasons, Uncle Yu!"

    Seeing that Mother Yue and Mu Chenyan were finallying down the stairs, he went over and waited at the foot of the stairs. Mother Yue had yet to ovee her state and didn''t notice Shui Koshing until he had appeared right in front of her. Startled, she took a step back but he held her wrist and dragged her away saying, "Let''s have a talk, Yue!"

    Mother Yue could only drop her head and follow him obediently. Even Mu Chenyan didn''t stop them.

    "What''s going on?" asked Grandfather Xiang to Mu Chenyan.

    Mu Chenyan shrugged her shoulders, "Let''s wait and see."

    Since she said it like that, Grandfather Xiang didn''t ask further. Instead, he also decided to wait patiently. He didn''t have a habit of trying to get involved with other people''s families. There was no need to do such a thing when they could patiently wait for everything to clear up before them.

    Shui Koshing had taken Mother Yue to a room where no one else was. He stared at the familiar face of the woman before his eyes and actually thought she looked rather unfamiliar now.

    "You really know how to hide, eh?"

    Mother Yue bit her lips and didn''t dare to look him in the eyes.

    "If you still think I don''t recognize you then you''re mistaken. Last night, when I watched Yue Fai ying with Uncle Yu, I have already seen your picture on his phone screen."

    Mother Yue understood why he had been waiting for her. Her son had always been keeping a photo of himself with his mother as his lock screen wallpaper. It was no wonder her identity was given away just like that.

    Shui Koshing stared at her hard as he questioned, "Don''t you have anything to say?"

    Mother Yue also felt like she had a lot to say but right now, she could say nothing. It was not that she didn''t want to but it was a fact that she couldn''t speak anymore! Her voice was long lost.

    "Song Xin''ai looked for you everywhere. She looked for you so desperately and yet she wasn''t able to see you before she took herst breath."

    That one sentence broke down Mother Yue as she fell down on her knees and continued to cry. The tears that had just stopped start to fall all over again. She couldn''t help it. Hearing the name "Song Xin''ai" reminded her of that good woman.

    Shui Koshing was taken aback by her reaction. He crouched down before her and held her shoulder saying, "Yue Yue, stop crying. I didn''t mean to hurt you. I just want to know why we couldn''t find you and what really happened for you to leave everything behind? If something happened, you could have looked for us. Just one call and we would have done anything for you." He wiped her tears and looked into her bloodshot eyes, "And why aren''t you talking?"

    In her desperation, Mother Yue opened her mouth but no sound came out. She moved her hands around but Shui Koshing really couldn''t understand her which made her upset. She held her head in her hands as her tears fell incessantly. She stood up in a hurry and looked around in the room. Finding a pen and a notebook, she scribbled down and shoved it into his hands.

    Shui Koshing was startled awake when a notebook was shoved into his hands. He was lost in his own thoughts when he saw her state just now. It made him feel guilty for even asking that question. It felt like he had hurt her.

    He looked down at the notebook and read the words she had jotted down in a hurry, ''I can''t speak. You''ll never be able to hear my voice ever again. How was I supposed to call you for help when I can''t even call out my own son''s name?''

    Her words seemed to have pierced through his heart and for a moment, he even forgot to breathe.

 Chapter 169 - Similarities

    Shui Koshing didn''t urge her to tell him anything after reading that. He just couldn''t bring himself to do so. The Yue Yue in his memories had a beautiful voice and she loved to talk as well. She was bright and a bubbly girl. Somewhat like Hyson. Her whole disposition was radiant. She always made people feel happy andfortable around her.

    But now that he saw how even after struggling she couldn''t produce a single sound, he was left dumbstruck. He only stared at her in silence as she continued to clutch her chest and cry loudly. Her silent crying seemed to really hurt him right now. He could feel the pain she was going through.

    He slowly extended his hand and gently ced it on top of her head. She raised her face to meet his eyes. Through the tears, she saw the concern in his eyes and she was stunned for a moment. It had been a long time since someone showed such gentleness to her. Apart from Mu Chenyan and Elder Xiang, she hadn''t felt this gentleness from anyone.

    "Stop crying, okay?" Shui Koshing held her face in his hands and wiped her tears. "I won''t be mean to you. Just don''t cry like this. Xin''ai mighte into my dream to get revenge for you."

    The corner of Yue''s lips tugged up slightly when she heard thatst sentence.

    She took a deep breath and closed her eyes to settle her emotions. After wiping her face, she continued to take calming breaths before she picked up the notebook again to write, ''What happened to Xin Jie[1]?''

    Shui Koshing sat down on a chair at the side and tapped the armrest in silence for a minute before he answered her, "She died in a car ident. It''s been a decade now." Mother Yue was still unable to ept that Song Xin''ai was no longer around. That woman who loved her genuinely like a sister was no longer in this world. And she had been blissfully oblivious to this fact. "Stop thinking about it. She won''t want to see you cry because of her."

    Mother Yue bit her lips not knowing what else to do. What could she do?

    "But she had a lot ofints with you that took with her," told Shui Koshing. "When she first learned about the news of how publicly your father decided to sever his ties with you, she was baffled. She went to look for you but it was as if you vanished from this earth." He stared into her eyes, "Yue, not for me, but for Xin''ai, can you please tell me why did you hide?"

    Mother Yue''s fingers around the pen in her hand tightened. It was as if the poor pen would break the next second but she controlled her emotions and wrote, ''Didn''t you learn about why my father decided to sever ties with me?''

    Shui Koshing shook his head in response. "Even though Xin''ai repeatedly asked that question, no one from the Yue family was willing to answer that question. However, your sister repeatedly scorned that you''re a disgrace and h h h." He was constantly observing her expressions when he decided to tell her this much. He didn''t go into details but from the delf-deprecating smile on her face, he could actually tell that she already could imagine the details on her own.

    "You had always been your father''s most favorite. You had always been the youngest Princess of the Yue family. I''m still not able to understand why or how your father could actually choose to abandon you like that." He had a reminiscent look on his face as he continued, "Even Xin''ai begged him to let her know what happened but he didn''t want to say it. However, because of this matter, Xin''ai''s rtionship with the Yue family broke off over the years."

    When Shui Koshing told her about what Song Xin''ai did for her, she was quite touched. How could she not be? She didn''t expect that her cousin would actually choose to go such extremes for her even when her own sister had scorned her.

    Back in the day when Song Xin''ai used to tell her how her sister hated her. Yue didn''t believe it at all. She always thought her sister was just a little cold and aloof. It was her nature and that''s why she didn''t mind her sister''s distant behavior. She never realized that she was being alienated by her own sister and if it was not for Song Xin''ai, she would have known what it felt like to have a loving and protective elder sister.

    Technically speaking, Shui Koshing''s wife, Shui Xian''s mother was actually not rted to Yue Yue by blood. Although Yue Yue called her cousin sister, she was actually not her cousin. Instead, Song Xin''ai was actually her elder sister''s maternal cousin. Her father''s first wife had only one brother and Song Xin''ai was his only daughter.

    However, Yue Yue being the naive girl never understood why Song Xin''ai always doted on her but kept a distance from her elder sister. It was not until it was toote that she figured everything. But it was no use now. She had already lost the most precious people to her. Especially her father.

    "What happened to your voice?"

    Shui Koshing thought she would be hurt by his question again but he didn''t expect her to even offer him a smile as she jotted down her reply and passed the notebook to him.

    He read the words written in clear writing, ''Head injury. The night I was thrown out of my own family, I got my head injured. So, that night I didn''t just lose my family but I also lost the right to ever speak again.'' Shui Koshing felt his eyes tearing up when he went on reading further, ''Clearly, the heaven felt it was pointless for me to have a voice when no one was even willing to let me defend myself.''

    Shui Koshing lowered his head and lifted his hand to wipe the tears at the corner of his eyes.

    Mother Yue smiled softly to herself as she took the notebook from his hand and turned the page to write again. ''You shouldn''t feel bad for me. Even I have stopped feeling bad for myself now. I felt more helpless when I had a voice, I feel quite empowered now when I don''t have it any longer.''

    Shui Koshing chewed the inside of his cheek in contemtion. Suddenly, a handsome face shed through his eyes, and he stared at her again, "Did they cut all ties with you because of Yue Fai? Was it because you''re pregnant?" Later, he seemed to be answering to himself in a low voice, "It has to be that. The timeline matches perfectly. Hyson is about twenty-four. You''ve been hiding for twenty-five years."

    However, Mother Yue shook her head at him, ''Even I didn''t know I''d get a surprise in the form of my son. After losing my voice, knowing that I had a life growing inside of me was the only thing that kept me going. My Yue Fai can never be the reason for his mother''s tragedy. If anything he is the blessing I received after that tragedy.''

    Shui Koshing once again thought Hyson and smiled softly, "He certainly is like a happy pill. He is a beautiful soul." Mother Yue smiled gently and proudly. "Who is his father?" Seeing how her smile stiffened, he added, "Do you really think I can''t see the simrities here?"

    Mother Yue furrowed her brows at his question, ''He doesn''t resemble his father though. How can you find any simrity?''

    Shui Koshing gave her a smile that didn''t look like a smile, "My sweet little sister, he might not resemble his father but he resembles his elder brother. When heughs, I can obviously see the simrity between him and his elder brother."

    Mother Yue was taken aback by what he pointed out. She obviously wouldn''t know this detail. She hadn''t met or seen that boy for years now. She was certain that he didn''t even remember her any longer.

    "Since you''re not denying it," whispered Shui Koshing. "My guess is right. Yue Fai''s father is..." Mother Yue held his arm and didn''t let him continue. She looked around as if to see if anyone was around even if she knew that they had locked the door when they entered she still didn''t forget to look around.

    ''Shing Ge, don''t say it. Just don''t ever say it out loud. I don''t care about the consequences of the world knowing who my son''s father is but my son won''t like it.'' Shui Koshing''s brows knitted up. ''I don''t want the shadow of my previous life to fall on my son''s happy life. That young miss of the Yue n is already gone. Now, I''m just Yue! Just Yue Fai''s mother. And that''s more than enough for me and my son!''

    "Since you look so angry just thinking about it, I really want to know what happened," said Shui Koshing.

    Since Mother Yue could see that she couldn''t hide from him anyway. She put her head down and honestly jotted down the happening of that year in detail but the more Shui Koshing read, the more his head grew ufortable.

    [1] ''Jie'': Means elder sister, not necessarily rted by blood. It''s also a way to address women older than you.

 Chapter 170 - Instant Liking

    For a good five minutes, Shui Koshing had nothing to say at all. His mind buzzed as he continued to stare at the words before his eyes. However, it seemed like he wasn''t able to process anything right now. Because the more he read, the more his heart started aching.

    "Where did you go after that?" he asked.

    ''Just here and there,'' was the only response he received from her.

    However, he wasn''t an idiot. He definitely didn''t believe that she had lived a smooth life after being cut down from her own family. She didn''t take any money from her family and even had to raise her own son all on her own. It''d have been difficult.

    Even though her appearance didn''t have any dramatic change over the years, one could see a mature look in her eyes thates after going through the hardships of life. She was someone who grew up in the palm of her father''s hand and one day, everything was snatched from her. And she had to grow up for her son''s sake.

    Although she was a student of a prestigious university in Country F when she disappeared, she hadn''t graduated yet. It was definitely not easy to make a living on her own.

    He was feeling bitter in his heart but didn''t know what he could do or say to vent his frustration.

    Seeing how down he looked, she tried tofort him, ''Shing Ge, even though I lost a lot of things, I am happy. You don''t have to worry about me. I really am happy. I have an amazing son, how would I not be happy?''

    Shui Koshing ced his hand over hers as he said, "It must have been hard." Mother Yue smiled at him and shook her head in reply. "Don''t you want your son to know about everything?"

    ''I wrote a letter to my son when he was ten, I told him if he ever had a question regarding his mother''s past, he could open it and read it. But it''s been almost fifteen years and that letter is still locked inside his drawer.''

    Shui Koshing raised his brows in question, "He really isn''t curious about his own identity?"

    ''He says he is my son. And that identity is enough for him.''

    Shui Koshing pursed his lips and nodded, "He sure is a good kid."

    Mother Yue''s lips upturned as she nodded in agreement with him. She also knew how much of a blessing it was for her to have such a good son. He wasn''t only filial but also he was the sunshine of her life. Her silly son was the reason she was able to grow up from the naive girl she once was.

    She didn''t know why Hyson wasn''t even curious to know about his own father. She had asked this question to him on different asions and yet he always waved her off saying, "Mum, I have you and that''s all I want." Although she always felt touched by his remarks, she also worried about him a lot.

    It was a pity that her son didn''t have a male role model in life. But that silly son of hers didn''t think it was big deal. In all these years, he not only wished her, "Happy Mother''s Day, Mum!" he even went as far as to wish her, "Happy Father''s Day, Mum!" And it always left her speechless.

    ....

    "Yanyan, have you seen my mum?" asked Hyson as soon as he came to join them for breakfast. It wastest night so he decided to just sleep over.

    Mu Chenyan served his food saying, "Mama''s precious boy, learn to do things without her. Stop always looking for her. Don''t you want her to live her life?"

    "But she shouldn''t forget that I''m also a part of her life," retorted Hyson like a possessive kid who just didn''t want to share his mother with anyone.

    "Yue Fai," Grandfather Xiang called out. "Since your group is on hiatus, don''t you have a lot of time to yourself now?

    Hyson showed him a wronged look, "I don''t have time even now. I have to take my singing lessons, I still have to practice dance every day so that my skills don''t get rusty."

    "You''re still taking singing lessons?"

    "There is always room for improvement," replied Hyson in a profound manner that didn''t seem to fit with his image. "Besides, doesn''t Ellie always say that there is no harm in learning new things. Life is a lesson, one should learn it diligently every day." He heard the footsteps from the other side and looked over, "Mum!"

    Seeing her son waving his hand at her, Mother Yue''s eyes softened.

    ''Are you done eating?''

    "Noooo..." Hyson''s reply was drawled when he noticed Shui Koshing walking behind his mother. Then he focused his eyes on her face and it didn''t take him long to see that she had cried. And that is why when Mother Yue and Shui Koshing sat down at the dining table, he asked, "Mum, how are you rted to Uncle Shing here?"

    Both Mother Yue and Shui Koshing''s eyes widened at his question. Meanwhile, Mu Chenyan patted Hyson''s shoulder, "I''m so proud of you, little Fai. You sure have a keen perception."

    Hyson didn''t try to act smug at beingplimented like he usually did. Because currently, he was waiting for a reply from his mother.

    ''Cousin-inw,'' was the answer he received from his mother which made his brows knit up a little.

    "Uncle Shing is your cousin-inw?" Mother Yue nodded her head. She truly loved Song Xin''ai like an elder sister. So, it didn''t matter to her whether they were blood-rted or not. For her, Shui Koshing would always be her cousin-inw. Hyson looked at Shui Koshing''s face, "The world is really small, eh."

    The way Shui Koshing looked at Hyson had also changed now. No matter how Hyson came to this world, it wouldn''t change the fact that he had Yue Yue''s blood running in his veins. It was hard not to like this young man just like it was awfully difficult to resist the charms of Yue Yue back in the day.

    "It''s no wonder I took an instant liking to you," said Shui Koshing. "You have the same personality as your mother."

    "No, he isn''t like his mother," Mu Chenyan chimed in at this point. "Because our Yue Fai isn''t naive like his mother." Mother Yue narrowed her eyes at Mu Chenyan who shrugged her shoulders indifferently. "I didn''t say anything wrong. Isn''t it obvious? Our Yue Fai is innocent but he is equally astute."

    Mother Yue couldn''t refute her words. Indeed, her son wasn''t really like her. Even though he had a happy-go-lucky personality that matched his mother''s, he was still different from his mother. Behind his innocent smile was a mature young man who actually grew up emotionally sooner than he was supposed to.

    Since his house didn''t have a father figure, he had to be the man of the house for his mother. So that she could depend on him.

    <strong><i>*Ring! Ring!*</i></strong>

    Hyson put down his chopsticks and took his phone. It was an unknown number but he still took the call, "Hello!"

    "Oh, hi! Am I speaking to Hyson?" came a female voice from the other side.

    Hyson''s brows furrowed up slightly. He felt like the voice sounded familiar but he couldn''t put his finger on where he heard it. However, he still replied, "Yes. How may I help you?"

    "I''m Sora," told the girl over the phone.

    "Sora?"

    "You don''t remember?"

    "I''m sorry but I don''t," Hyson sounded exceptionally polite.

    "Since my name isn''t ringing a bell. Let me reintroduce myself, I''m Sora. The screenwriter of the movie you auditioned for."

    It finally dawned on Hyson why she sounded familiar. He saw her on audition day. However, it was a brief encounter, he couldn''t possibly remember it that well.

    "Oh," responded Hyson tly. "I wonder why Miss Sora is looking for me."

    "Yourpany didn''t inform you?" questioned the other party.

    "I don''t know what you''re talking about."

    Sora sighed out, "Forget it. It doesn''t matter at all. I called because I wanted to invite you out for a meal. Do you have some time today?"

    "That won''t be appropriate," replied Hyson without even thinking.

    "Don''t worry, I''m calling you out for an official matter. Besides, yourpany already agreed. I don''t know why they didn''t inform you yet. Anyway, it''s about your audition. So, when can we meet?"

    Hyson looked at the time on his watch before replying, "We can meet today."

    "That''s just great! Let me send you the address and time," said Sora. "I''ll see you there then. Until then..."

    Hyson hung up the phone and ced it on his side carelessly. He didn''t know why this person was looking for him but he didn''t care either. Even though he was hopeful for this role, it wasn''t to the point that he felt the need to stay anxious day and night.

 Chapter 171 - My Hero

    Hyson didn''t know why Miss Sora was looking for him on her own. And he didn''t n on going just like that. He decided to first have a discussion with his manager before taking any action. The entertainment circle was a huge mess. It only looks mourous on the outside, the water was deep and dirty.

    The only reason he had been able to keep his innocence while swimming in these currents was his cautious behavior. He''d never even take a single step without thinking about it a million times over. Besides, he had a best friend who had been acting as his advisor since the beginning.

    "Do you have to leave?" questioned Mu Chenyan.

    "Hmm..." Hyson hummed in reply. "The role I auditioned for..."

    "You got it?" Mu Chenyan interrupted him and he shook his head in reply.

    "Let me finish. I don''t know whether I got it or not but the screenwriter who is also the original author of the series called to make an appointment with me. I''m not sure what she wants."

    "Forget it," said Mu Chenyan. "Whatever the matter is, it can wait. You finish up your meal first."

    Hyson looked at his bowl which was overflowing with food and felt a headacheing on. "Yanyan, just because Ellie is not here doesn''t mean you need to pour all this love on my bowl. It''s overflowing."

    Mu Chenyan pouted at him, "What are you saying, my dear Yue Fai? I didn''t give you much. In fact, I think this much won''t even be enough to wet your stomach. I should pick up something-!" Hyson held her hand in which she was holding the serving chopsticks.

    "Spare me! I''ll have to run an extra hour to fit in all of this love of yours."

    "My poor Fai,"mented Mu Chenyan. "Why is your life so hard? My heart hurts seeing you like this. Just who the hell said you need to diet? Bring that person here, I''m gonna pummel him into a soup!"

    Hysonughed at her reaction before he pinched her cheeks saying, "Yanyan, why are you so cute?"

    "Is he your son or hers?" asked Shui Koshing to Mother Yue who was smiling at her son and her best friend. She looked at Shui Koshing and made hand gestures that he couldn''t understand so he looked towards Hyson for help.

    "Mum says there is no difference," Hyson tranted his mother''s words for him and then added, "Mum is right though. These two beautifuldies are my life. Who cares who gave me birth? Isn''t it enough that my Yanyan loves me just as much as my mum?"

    "It''s such a shame though that you don''t love me as much as you love your mum,"ined Mu Chenyan.

    Hyson chuckled at Mu Chenyan, "Yanyan, you also don''t love me as much as you love Ellie. We are both biased about a certain someone in our lives. Let''s not expose each other now."

    Having Hyson at the breakfast table was a delight for Grandfather Xiang. Even with Raelle around, the house didn''t seem as lively as it did with this young man''s presence. Even though heined about how much food Mu Chenyan had put on his bowl, he still hesitated before finishing it all.

    After he was done, he stood up and ced a hand over his stomach that seemed to be bulging from how much he ate just now. He hugged Mu Chenyan''s shoulder and gave her a kiss before moving to his mother to repeated the process. Then he walked over to Grandfather Xiang and bent at his waist to allow Grandfather Xiang to pat his back.

    "I''m gonna take my leave now," he announced. "It was nice to meet you, Uncle Shing. And since you seem to know my mum, we''ll be seeing each other more often. Until then, bye-bye!"

    Shui Koshing watched his leaving and asked in amusement, "Seriously, Yue, how old is your son? Why am I getting an illusion like I just met an adorable kid?"

    "He only grew taller, his inner kid is still alive, well, and bouncy as well!" Mu Chenyan spoke the words that Mother Yue was trying to convey and then she chuckled softly, "Yue is right though. Yue Fai is like a big kid. But don''t take him as a kid. That''d be the biggest mistake of your life."

    "Now that Fai is already not here," began Grandfather Xiang who had been quiet all this while. "Since Koshing is your cousin-inw, I believe our Yue is a part of the Yue n from the Hai City? Am I on the right track here?"

    Mother Yue pressed her lips together and lowered her head while Shui Koshing looked at Grandfather Xiang incredulously, "Uncle Yu, you didn''t know about Yue''s identity?"

    "Our Xiang n had never been connected to the Yue n. Although Xiang n had been military from the beginning, no one ever delved into politics. While the Yue n had long been a part of the politics and government of our country." Grandfather Xiang put his hand on the table as he continued, "It''s only right that I don''t know much about the Yue n."

    "You''re right," agreed Shui Koshing. "Even my family would not have had any connection with the Yue n if not my wife."

    Mu Chenyan perched her elbows on the table and cupped her face as asked, "Shing Ge, since you have known my Yue for so long, you must know how she was when she was young?"

    Shui Koshing smiled in amusement at how excited Mu Chenyan looked, "She was definitely not like how she is now. She was a chatterbox. And not only that she loved to y the piano and she loved to sing. In fact, she had countless admirers back in the day."

    "Wow! I knew it! My best friend must be amazing,"mented Mu Chenyan.

    "At least, Yue is better than you. You''re a disgrace on the name of ady."

    Mu Chenyan pouted at Grandfather Xiang''sment, "Elder Xiang, I also had countless admirers back in the day."

    "Oh?" Grandfather Xiang raised his brows at her. "Why don''t you mention how you got rid of them?"

    Mu Chenyan coughed to avoid answering that.

    "I''m curious to know," said Shui Koshing.

    "Our dear Chenyan gave an open challenge that whoever wants to date her, has to first defeat her. If they seeded, she''ll date that person." Shui Koshing gaped at Mu Chenyan while Grandfather Xiang went on, "Needless to say since she grew up in the barracks, it was quite difficult for those admirers to defeat her in a fight."

    "Chenyan, didn''t you have any admirer from the barracks?" questioned Shui Koshing.

    Mu Chenyan snorted at that, "We''re like bros! Who would think about dating? Besides, whoever had that unrealistic idea in their head, my Ge straightened them up. Never in their life would anyone dare to look at me." She seemed quite proud talking about her glory days, "In those days, I was at the top of the world. My Ge loved me so much. And since he was the best soldier, no one woulde to find troubles for me. Instead, because of my Ge, everyone in the barracks helped me in concealing a lot of my dark history."

    "Have some control over yourself," said Shui Koshing. "Your love and admiration for your Ge, is also overflowing right now."

    Mu Chenyan''s lips twitched at the reminder and she instantly turned her head to look at Grandfather Xiang who seemed to not care about what she said. Even though she was talking about his son, his face didn''t show any emotion. He was neither angry with her for bringing him up nor did he stop her from doing so.

    "I''m gonna go and take my medicine," said Grandfather Xiang when he noticed everyone got, because of his presence.

    As he disappeared from their vision, Mu Chenyan heaved a sigh of relief, "I thought I was gonna be beaten up for bringing up Ge."

    "Who told you to do it?" chuckled Shui Koshing.

    Mu Chenyan made a face at him, "Shing Ge, it''s not my fault that my whole life revolved around my Ge. Back then, he was truly my hero. He was the best brother."

    ''But he isn''t a good father.''

    Mu Chenyan looked at Mother Yue''s hands and gave a sad smile, "No, Yue. Ge is a good father. He just isn''t a good father to our Elle."

    Shui Koshing nodded in agreement, "Chenyan is right."

    ''No matter what you both say, I''m biased with Raelle. I won''t consider him a good father.''

    Mu Chenyan shook her head at her best friend, "You don''t have to. But I wish you could meet him. It might not change your biasedness but it''ll allow you to see that he is worthy of the praise he receives. After all, I used to admire him a lot. There has to be some reason for my respect for him."

    Mother Yue knew that whenever Raelle''s father''s name woulde up, Mu Chenyan always reacted strangely. Although she seemed angry with him because of Raelle''s matter, however, that didn''t hide how much he meant to her. It was obvious that Mu Chenyan''s feelings wereplicated when it came to her beloved Ge.

 Chapter 172 - You Did Well, Hubby!

    Since it was Sunday and Shui Xian had nothing nned for the day, he decided to take out the invitation that Grandma Zhai gave himst night. Although he had no interest in the art exhibition, he definitely had an interest in hearing his wife''s unique point of view.

    And just because of that, he took Raelle to the art exhibition and he was definitely not disappointed. As always, his wife really told him what it meant to see the world in a new light.

    The painting that seemed to have caught Raelle''s eyes was a painting of a tree. That''s right, it was the painting of a tree standing tall under the rain. Now, what was the specialty of this painting that seemed to make Raelle Xiang stand for fifteen minutes staring at it?

    That had to do with how the tree was portrayed in that painting. The tree''s leaves were in rainbow colors. That''s right! Each leaf of the tree was painted with a different, vibrant, and vivid color. However, due to the rain, those colors seemed to be washing off of those leaves. One could see how each leaf left a streak of color smirch that fell to the ground creating a puddle that had all those different colors mixed it making it seem murky.

    Seeing how engrossed she was, Shui Xian really didn''t feel like disturbing her but he had the urge to know what was on her mind. This was the longest she had looked at any painting around them. And he was curious to know what she was seeing. You heard it right! He wanted to know what she was seeing even though he could see the painting himself. But he knew there''d be a huge difference in the way they both looked at the same painting.

    It was just like their different ideas of love. Her ideas were never on the same wavelength as his.

    "I thought my wife''s favorite subject was science," he whispered right beside her ear as he stood right behind her. His body wasn''t touching hers at all. But the distance between their bodies seemed to be almost non-existent.

    "But I never said I don''t like art," she replied candidly without moving her eyes away from the painting.

    Shui Xian nodded to himself before continuing, "However, you said you can''t understand emotions. Art is often the representation of feelings that one buries deep inside them. When they can''t voice out those feelings, they paint it with colors."

    Raelle turned her face slightly and her lips brushed softly against the side of Shui Xian''s jaw as he had his face so close to her. But it didn''t affect her as she held his gaze, "Do you know the inspiration behind science and art is the same?" Shui Xian''s brows knitted up slightly. "Both are the representation of one''s dreams." Shui Xian''s eyes widened a little at her reply. "There isn''t much difference between science and art. Both are forms of imagination."

    He was intrigued by her words as his lips uplifted slightly, "Then what does my wife see in this painting?"

    "Reality," she answered.

    "Huh?"

    "Each leaf of the tree represents humans and different colors represent different masks that people have put on. They say when you fall in love with the tree and not its root, then you would find yourself lost once the season changes and the tree withers away. Here the rain represents the reality that can tear off those vibrant masks of people. Because with rain, the season will change and then, all that''d be left would be a barren tree with its dry branches." She turned her eyes towards the painting as she added, "This is the reality of the society we live in. We all are wearing a different color that doesn''t belong to us. Take you and me as an example, I don''t know how to smile and yet, I have to put on a smile. You clearly love to smile and yet, you have forced yourself to hide behind a cold wall. We are hypocrites in our own ways."

    Shui Xian was silent for a long while as he let her words sink in. He didn''t mind that she called him a hypocrite right on his face. She didn''t lie just how could he refute her words when he knew what she said was the truth? He hardly ever had any words to argue with her and today was no different.

    "Do you want me to buy the painting for you?" he finally broke the silence.

    "No," she refused immediately.

    "Why not? You clearly like it," he said with a firm tone. He was certain that she liked the painting. If she didn''t, she wouldn''t waste her ''precious'' time here.

    "Just because I like it, doesn''t mean I want to buy it," she replied to him and held his arm. "Let''s go now. There is nothing else to look at."

    Shui Xian didn''t understand why she refused to buy something she clearly liked but he didn''t question it either. Instead, he moved her hand from his arm to his hand andced their fingers together. He seemed to like the feeling of having her hand perfectly fit with his own.

    "I heard there is a famous cafe around here," said Shui Xian.

    "Who did you hear it from?" she questioned.

    Shui Xian avoided her gaze as he said in a small, "I might have looked it up."

    "Why are the tips of your ears turning red again?" Raelle noticed how his ears were turning red visibly. "I didn''t even do anything this time."

    Shui Xian rubbed his forehead saying, "It''s because I''m feeling embarrassed."

    "Why?"

    "Because since we wereing here, I wanted us to spend more time together. So, I looked up the best spots for couples around here. And that''s how the cafe caught my attention. It has great reviews."

    "You made an effort for our rtionship, what is there to be embarrassed about?" While Shui Xian was lost in her eyes, she put her hand on his head and patted it gently saying, "You did well, Hubby!" And then she shed him one of those smiles of hers.

    However, even though he knew that smile was fake to the core, it took his breath away.

 Chapter 173 - Together Forever

    Clearly, our Master Xian did his research well before bringing his cherished wife to this cafe. There were three words that could perfectly sum up the cafe''s ambiance; cozy, cute, and romantic! That''s all!

    The color scheme chosen for such a romantic ce had to be red and white. You''d even find a bright red rose at the center of each table. The cafe was really in a league of its own as it only served couples. Soft music was ying in the background and several couples could be found in the cafe at this time.

    Shui Xian pulled out the chair for her like a true gentleman and only moved to his own chair after she settled down. It was also his first timeing to such a ce. It wasn''t because he was a non-romantic, it was simply because when he first got married, these kinds of ces weren''t around. Although the difference was only five years, the development in the country exceeds one''s expectations.

    "We''ll have this," Shui Xian pointed at the menu in his hand. "The Rose Couple Set."

    The waitress was slightly dazed by his face and it took her a while to process what he just said. Then she blushed as she looked at Raelle sitting opposite him and turned to leave.

    "Hubby, are you throwing love spells on every stranger?"

    Shui Xian ced his hand over hers that she hand ced on the tabletop and said, "If I really have that ability then I think I''d love to throw this love spell on my wife."

    "Oh and why is that?" she wondered out loud. "Like Opa and Yanyan, you also want to evoke emotions in me?"

    He shook his head honestly, "No, I just want to ensnare my wife in my love and have her only look at me."

    "With the speed, you''re taking over Hyson''s ce, I don''t think I''ll have time to look at anyone else." Shui Xian''s brow raised up slightly as she went on, "As Hyson said, before you, I really thought he was a beauty. But now, you''ve taken over that ce. I often call Hyson a sticky chewing gum. Buttely, with the way you''re sticking to me, you''re definitely rivaling Hyson''s stickiness. It won''t be long before you take the position of being the sticky chewing gum in my life."

    Shui Xian''s lips curled up at her words. He found it amusing and slightly touching as well. He had already observed her rtionship with Hyson and he could im that without even realizing it herself, she actually puts a whole lot of importance on Hyson.

    "Other than being the ''beauty'' and the ''sticky chewing gum'', do I have any other titles?" He even air-quoted to emphasize ''beauty'' and ''sticky chewing gum.''

    "Aren''t you, my dear husband?"

    Shui Xian cursed under his breath as he said, "You always make me shut up with the fact that I''m your husband. I don''t need that reminder. I also know I''m your husband." While he was talking, suddenly his expressions changed dramatically, "Did you just call me dear husband?"

    "I did," Raelle replied sincerely.

    Shui Xian was left gaping at her in disbelief, "That''s a first. I always heard you saying that I''m your husband but it''s the first time, I''ve be the dear husband." He scratched the back of his neck foolishly, "It sounds good. I wonder when it''ll turn into dearest husband."

    "Let''s not be greedy, Hubby," said Raelle as she continued to observe the changes in his expression which seemed to make her unable to look away. Oh, wait! Her husband''s beauty alone was enough to make her eyes unable to wander around.

    Shui Xian firmly nodded in agreement, "Right! We should take one step at a time. Greed is a curse!"

    Soon, their order was served and Shui Xian couldn''t help giving it a second nce. The cute little macarons were in the shape of the heart. The slice of cake had a buttercream rose on top and on the edge of the te was written with chocte, ''Together Forever.'' Even the coffee came in cute cups with hearts on top.

    Shui Xian looked up to see her reaction and saw Raelle starting at the things they ordered intently before her lips parted, "This looks... interesting."

    Shui Xian heaved a sigh of relief when he heard that. He didn''t know why he was anxious but it probably was because he wanted to please her. Once upon a time, he used to be confident in what he did for love, and now, before his own wife, he was like a teenager who was going through the awakening of his first love.

    It wasplicated but the feelings were equally intoxicating and fascinating.

    Since Raelle usually didn''t talk while eating, he was also silently gazing at her as he took a bite of the cake and found it to his liking. He had to say that the cafe deserved the praise it got on the inte, they not made a beautiful ambiance for couples, even their specialties were one of a kind.

    "Wifey, do you like it?" Raelle lifted her eyes to hold his gaze. Seeing how she looked at him, he seemed to understand what she wanted to say as he shook his head, "You''re right. That was a wrong question." He smiled at her sheepishly, "But I don''t know what else to talk about."

    "Why is my husband looking for topics to talk with me?" retorted Raelle, startling him a bit. "You''re my husband, you definitely shouldn''t need a reason to talk to your own wife. You can say whatever you want, don''t think so deeply."

    "So, do you want to hear me exin how you''re challenging my feelings every single day?"

    "I did that?" she asked.

    He nodded his head, "Yes, you did. And the worst part is that you don''t even understand what you''re doing to me."

    "Why don''t you make me understand then?" Raelle blinked at him.

 Chapter 174 - Iâ€™ll Slow Down

    Finding himself entranced in her eyes, Shui Xian''s mind went nk. He had no idea what he was supposed to say. What could he do? His wife''s eyes had a bewitching sparkle that he couldn''t seem to avoid at all.

    She said he was using a love spell on strangers? Clearly, she was the one ensnaring his heart. Who would have time to look at a third person when one''s own wife is abination of innocence, intelligence, lethal, and beauty!

    Raelle extended her hand to poke his cheek as she repeated herself, "Why don''t you make me understand?"

    Shui Xian was abruptly pulled out of his daze and put a fist against his mouth to fake a cough before saying, "What if I can''t understand it myself?"

    "What do you mean?"

    "It''s simple actually," began Shui Xian in azy tone. "I just can''t seem to understand what you''re up to."

    "I''m not up to anything though," replied Raelle without missing a beat.

    Shui Xian chuckled softly at her, "I know. My wife is all-knowing but equally clueless when ites to the matter of hearts. However, after meeting you, I''vee to realize that I also don''t have that much control over my feelings as I thought I did. Right now, all my moods are swaying around you. And I''m incapable of understanding what I am going through right now." He took a brief pause as he nced at her with a solemn gaze, "I''ve been in love once. It clearly didn''t feel like this. So, I really wonder what feelings you''re trying to evoke in me."

    "Are you scared?" she questioned.

    Shui Xian nodded his head without trying to conceal anything from her, "I am scared. I''m scared of how much control you''re getting over my emotions. And yet, I''m equally intrigued."

    "Intrigued?" echoed Raelle.

    "Yes, intrigued. I''m intrigued to know where my feelings for you would take me. The path seems treacherous but it''s irresistible." He touched her earlobe as he continued, "You''re irresistible. It''s like no matter howplicated the maze leading to my heart is, you''d be able to find the way."

    "Perhaps, you have these feelings because I''m particrly fond of solving puzzles. A maze is not difficult. All you have to do is follow the wall follower algorithm and you''ll be able to find your way out of the maze. There is also shortest path algorithm and maze routing algorithms. Pretty efficient I''d say. There is more..."

    Shui Xian had to lean over to cover her lips with his own to stop her from continuing. He knew if she continued on this track, she''d soon make him learn all the algorithms there were to learn! As he eased into the kiss, he couldn''t help smiling against her lips. In a way, he found her words urate. Maybe she really did manage to find the way to his heart because she was a good problem solver.

    With such a genius wife, it''d be pretty impossible for him to hide anything from her. Even if the thing he was hiding was his own heart.

    Shui Xian pulled away and rubbed her lips that still held the traces of their kiss as he continued, "Raelle Xiang, I''m scared of falling in love again but if the person is you, I''m willing to take this risk. So..." His voice turned deeper and huskier, "Can you allow me to fall in love with you?"

    Raelle''s lips were still slightly parted as she looked into his eyes and found herself at a loss for words. This was rare for her. She always had something to say in reply. But currently, she didn''t know what she was supposed to say.

    "Does everyone asks for permission to fall in love?" she finally managed to form some words.

    Shui Xian shook his head lightly, "No, but if it''s you, I believe I should ask properly. My dear wife, let me love you. Hm?"

    "You just said you can''t figure out your feelings," replied Raelle. "What if it''s not love, what you''re going through? Perhaps, you''re just confused. Or you''re just taking some illusionary feelings too seriously."

    Shui Xian pulled his chair closer to hers and held her hand before bringing their hands up to his mouth to press a kiss at the back of her hand and while doing so, his eyes didn''t move even for a second away from her eyes.

    "Then let''s do it this way..." His eyes held some anticipation and anxiousness as he went on, "Let''s figure out my feelings together."

    "Together?"

    "Didn''t you say that husband and wife are supposed to walk together in this journey of life?" Raelle nodded in response. "Then why can''t we figure out our life and feelings together? If it takes both of us to make this rtionship work then you should help me in figuring out my feelings. And you never know, you might end up finding your own emotions on this road of discovery?"

    "Why do I think that you''re trying to trap me in the web of words?"

    Shui Xian smiled at her as he rubbed the back of her hand against his cheek, "With your intelligence, I definitely can''t trap you just with my words."

    "But I''m very slow when ites to understanding the talk of feelings and emotions."

    Shui Xian shrugged his shoulders, "It''s alright. I''ll slow down my pace to match yours. If you''re not going anywhere, neither am I. Then we have all our life to figure out everything."

    "What if I''m still unable to understand and might even hold you back with myself?"

    "That''s also fine. As long as I''m able to understand that''s enough. My feelings alone would be enough for the both of us."

    Shui Xian didn''t know what was going through her mind. In all honesty, even Raelle might not be able to tell what she was thinking about. However, she just knew she couldn''t peel her eyes away from his. And in those orbs, she found something so intense and passionate that her own eyes wavered a little.

    He watched how slowly, the corner of her lips tilted upward in an almost inconceivable manner. It looked like a lop-sided grin that seemed to look so beautiful and enchanting on her face. Her soft lips parted as she called him, "Xian..." Shui Xian felt his heart tremble at the way she called his name. "Thank you!"

 Chapter 175 - Selfish For Our Sake

    "Although I don''t know why I''m being thanked here, I have to say it, you''re my wife. My other half. There is no need for such gratitude between us. Because at the end of the day, whatever I do won''t just be for you. It''d be for US. For OUR future. So, you can also say I''m doing everything selfishly for myself."

    Raelle''s gaze at him didn''t falter at all. And for some bizarre reason, Shui Xian could see softness in her eyes. One that had never been seen before. It was strange how her face would always stay expressionless buttely, he could actually understand her better by just looking into her eyes.

    "I have always been a selfish person and I''ve been told that on plenty of asions as well. But I never mind it. Because I know I''m a selfish person. And I still don''t mind being selfish for our future or for our rtionship."

    Shui Xian couldn''t help falling deeper into the abyss of those ck orbs. And he even foolishly smiled. He definitely gave off the impression of someone who was killed by the love of his life and yet, he was happy to die at the hand of his love. And that was something Raelle couldn''t possibly understand.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, can I have your attention please?"

    All of a sudden, this voice from the other side of the caf¨¦ caught everyone''s attention, and Shui Xian and Raelle were no exception. Both of them turned to look over simultaneously.

    "Today is my girlfriend''s birthday and I''d be really happy to have you join us in celebrating it," said the man who had stood up and had even asked for a mic from the staff. He seemed to be prepared beforehand. While his said girlfriend was currently trying to tug at his arm to make him sit back as if she didn''t want to be in the limelight.

    Clearly, her boyfriend didn''t n on leaving this limelight today.

    Raelle watched with interest as the other couples on a date here sang the birthday song for the birthday girl as she made a wish, blew the candles, and cut the cake. And before the crowd could settle down, the man straight went on one knee and pulled out a ring saying, "Sini, we''ve been together for five years now. I knew from the moment I saw you that I want to spend the rest of my life with an amazing woman like you. And that feeling hasn''t changed even after these years. Today is a special day for you and I want to make it more special. So, Deng Sini, will you marry me?"

    "Yes," the woman replied with tears in her eyes as she jumped into her boyfriend''s arms.

    While Raelle watched with interest how everyone was cheering for them, there was a particr gaze that made her turn her face away from this scene. Seeing the look in Shui Xian''s eyes as if she could read it all, she said, "Don''t even think about it."

    Shui Xian''s lips turned downward, "Why?"

    "Why?" repeated Raelle. "We are already married."

    "So what?" he retorted. "Who said I can''t propose my own wife? It''s not like I''m gonna propose to someone else''s wife. It''s my own wife!!"

    "My answer is still a big, fat NO!"

    "You have to give me one genuine reason for this ''No''! We are already doing everything in the wrong order in this rtionship. So who set the rule that a proposal can''te after marriage?" Thinking of something, his eyes narrowed dangerously, "Don''t tell me someone went on his knee to propose you before and left a bad memory?"

    "Are you trying to write a story here?" questioned Raelle. "No one has ever proposed me."

    Shui Xian was stumped for words as his lips twitched. He always thought his wife didn''t date because she didn''t want to. He never thought from this point of view that no one ever asked her out. And it wasn''t his fault at all that he didn''t go that far with his thinking. After all, anyone who saw his wife would understand why he was unable to think down that line. Were the boys around her blind or something?

    "Are you serious?" he couldn''t help asking.

    "Do I look like someone who would joke around?"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "No but I''m still unable to believe it."

    "What''s so difficult to believe?" Raelle ate thest bite of the cake and told him, "I''ve always been the youngest one in my peers. Besides, they all preferred to spend time in the library absorbing knowledge. Catching feelings was something that wasn''t on their ns at all. Later when I joined thepany, I was still underage. And by the time I reached adulthood, no one in thepany was left with the idea of approaching me with ambiguous feelings. Rather, they avoided me like a pandemic."

    Shui Xian held his forehead in his hand. He seriously didn''t know whether to feel distressed about what his wife went through or feel happy that he was the first person in her life. But to be honest, he felt rather sad when he thought deeply about her teen years.

    His mother used to say that one can always make mistakes in adolescence. Youth is the time to experience and make mistakes. And it was the most joyful time of one''s life as well.

    Although his own youth held some bad memories, he still cherished it all. Because the memories of his youth were precious to him. However, his wife never went through that phase. In a way, one should say, she grew up sooner than she was supposed to. While he was learning to forgive himself for the mistakes he made, she must have been struggling to find a bnce to exist ''normally'' in this society.

    And the more his thoughts went this route, the darker his expressions became and the more his heart hurt. Argh! Why the hell did he refuse his parents from meeting her sooner?!

 Chapter 176 - Not An Angel

    Although Shui Xian was feeling distressed in his heart, one couldn''t possibly find any change in his expressions though. In fact, his lips even curved up into a wide smile that his wife seemed to be fond of.

    "I feel pity for the men who were too blind to see how gorgeous my wife is." Shui Xian touched her nose as his smile turned even gentler.

    "Isn''t it enough that you can see it?" questioned Raelle.

    Shui Xian paused momentarily because of her words before he said, "You! You''re a born flirt!"

    "Am I?" she wondered out loud.

    "Yes, you are!" retorted Shui Xian and stood up. As he didn''t leave her hand, she was also pulled up from the chair. "And that is why it''s difficult for me to understand what you''re doing to me."

    "Honestly speaking, my intentions are quite pure here," said Raelle in her defense. It never even crossed her mind to y with his feelings. Especially when she couldn''t even figure out what feelings are.

    Shui Xian turned towards her saying, "I''m suddenly quite intrigued to figure out what your impure intentions would look like. And I''m actually scared of that as well. After all, if your pure intentions are messing with her heart, I can''t even imagine what your impure intentions would do to me."

    Raelle blinked at him innocently, "I have nothing to say about that."

    Shui Xian shook his head at her and looked at the cashier at the counter as he had to pay the bill.

    "Sir, our caf¨¦ is currently celebrating its third anniversary week and that''s why we have arranged a game for our customers. There are exciting prizes for everyone. Would you like to give it a try?" The cashier was a young girl who couldn''t hold back her smile as she gazed at Shui Xian and Raelle. It wasn''t her fault, the couple was too eye-catching.

    In fact, there was another reason why she couldn''t look away. Since this couple walked in, they both only had eyes for each other. The way they looked at each other could make anyone feel envious.

    Even now, Shui Xian looked at his wife to ask for her opinion and the said wife just shrugged her shoulders nonchntly as if to say, ''Up to you.''

    So, since it was up to him, Shui Xian naturally chose to y the game. It wasn''t even that difficult. He just had to throw a dart at the spinning wheel. And when the wheel stopped, they could see on which prize his dart had hit on.

    The young girl pped her hands, "Both of you get movie tickets. Congrattions!" She went over to get the tickets and gave them to Shui Xian.

    Finally, with the movie tickets, they left the caf¨¦. "It''s a romanticedy. Want to go?"

    Raelle stopped on her way and Shui Xian also had to stop to look at her. Although there was still no expression on her face, he could tell she wasn''t very keen on watching a movie. And that too a ''romanticedy.'' No matter how he looked at it, he couldn''t imagine her sitting through a romantic movie.

    Suddenly, she looked over at another couple who walked out of the caf¨¦ and her eyes were stuck on the box they were holding. Seeing how her eyes followed that couple, Shui Xian sighed inwardly before saying, "Give me a minute." With that, he walked over to that couple and had a discussion with them with a polite smile on his face. Eventually, he managed to exchange his movie tickets with the prize they won. He had a proud smile on his face as he passed the box over to his wife, "Here you go. It seems like these macarons are a lot more exciting to you than going to a movie with your husband."

    Raelle opened the box in her hand and looked inside. There were cute mini macarons in the shape of animals. There was a kitty, a bear, and a bunny as well. These looked super adorable.

    She appeared satisfied to have this as she said, "I''m gonna bring this to B¨¤." Shui Xian was stumped for words when he heard her intention. "Since he can''te to try it, I''ll just bring it back for him."

    Shui Xian ced his hand on her head, "Wifey if you wanted this for B¨¤, we could have just bought some for him."

    Raelle shook her head, "They don''t sell these. Didn''t you hear earlier? All the prizes are exclusive for this week. You can''t buy these special macarons. You can only win these."

    "B¨¤ won''t mind having the other macarons which are less special in your opinion."

    "But why should we give him less special when we can give him the most special?" Shui Xian was lost for words yet again. "Besides, don''t you know that B¨¤ likes cute things. Haven''t you seen the special coffee mug that he ces in his library?"

    Was he supposed to tell her that he really didn''t know that his father liked cute things? Besides, when did he start liking such stuff? Howe he never noticed that his father''s taste was changing with his age?

    As they settled in their car, Raelle suddenly recalled something and said, "Oh, earlier you said it''s not exciting for me to go to movies with you. That is kind of true. But only because I can''t sit through a movie which I''m not even interested in."

    Shui Xian swerved the car towards the highway and only then asked her, "So, what kind of a movie do you like? I heard from Yue Fai that you like horror movies."

    "Whether I like horror movies or not can be debated," she replied. "However, it''s true that I''ve only gone to watch horror movies in a cinema."

    "If you don''t like it why did you go?"

    "Because Hyson doesn''t like it," she responded straightforwardly. "Since he always drags me along to watch a movie and waste my time then I should definitely make him watch something that won''t let him sleep for at least two nights."

    Shui Xian gaped at his wife, "Oh my god! I didn''t know my wife had evil intentions as well."

    "Well, I never imed to be an angel."

 Chapter 177 - Let Us Explore

    "Where is B¨¤?" inquired Raelle as she looked at Shui Xian.

    "I was with you the whole time, how would I know?" he retorted while looking around the house. He called for a maid and asked her.

    "Elder Master has gone out for a walk," answered the maid.

    "There you have it. Now, you know where he is," said Shui Xian as he waved off the maid to leave. He dragged her along towards the sitting area. He sat down and pulled her on his legs.

    "What are you doing?"

    "Weren''t we gonna wait for B¨¤?"

    "Yes, we were."

    "Then that''s exactly what we are doing!"

    While his lips yed around the back of her neck while his fingers fiddled with her hair, Raelle waspletely not paying any attention to him. She rummaged out her phone to scroll through the news of the day.

    "Ah! My night blindness is acting up again!"

    Both Raelle and Shui Xian turned their heads to look towards Shui Koshing who just came back but instantly turned around acting like he didn''t see anything.

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched at his father''s reaction, "B¨¤, it''s not even night yet. It''s only 6 in the evening, I don''t think your night blindness can act up so early."

    "It''s my night blindness, what do you know?" Shui Koshing stared at his son, in a displeased manner.

    Raelle conveniently chose to ignore whatever was going on between this father-son pair and waved her hand at Shui Koshing, "Wee back home, B¨¤! I brought you something."

    Shui Koshing instantly ran over and sat down on the armchair. "I''m already over the moon knowing that you actually remembered me while you went out ying. But since you have brought me something, I won''t refuse. What is it?"

    "Have some patience, B¨¤," said Shui Xian. "You''ll only be able to eat is after dinner."

    "Dear son, do you need a reminder?"

    "Of what?"

    "I''m your father! Stop trying to act like my father instead!"

    Shui Xian shrugged his shoulders, "First, you should stop acting like a kid."

    "How do you know I''m acting like a kid? You don''t even have a kid of your own yet."

    *Ring!*

    Raelle tapped Shui Xian''s hand that was around her waist saying, "Let go. I need to take this call."

    Shui Xian reluctantly let her get out of his arms and watched her moving to a quiet corner. Shui Koshing leaned over and whispered, "Son, have you talked to her?"

    "About what?" asked Shui Xian with knitted brows.

    "About your future," replied Shui Koshing.

    "If by future, you mean to say kids, then no! She is so young."

    Shui Koshing snorted at his son, "Stop using her name. Clearly, it''s you who don''t want to have kids."

    "If you know it, why are you bringing it up?" was Shui Xian''s response. "She and I don''t talk about the future, B¨¤. You already know that she is a realistic person. She believes in today. What tomorrow holds for us, let us explore that on our own."

    Shui Koshing leaned back in his seat. "Rx! It''s not like I was gonna force you to have kids. Have I ever forced you to do anything?" Shui Xian''s lips parted but before he could say anything, his father went on, "Don''t say that I forced you to marry Raelle. I just told you my choice, the decision was all up to you."

    Shui Xian shook his head at his father, "B¨¤, even if you had really forced me to marry her, I''d still notin about it."

    Shui Koshing straightened up again when he heard that, "Are you falling in love again, dear son? Didn''t you say to me that you''ve had enough of love? Now, whoever you marry won''t make a difference. However, why do I feel like your ideas are changing now?"

    Shui Xian gave his father a smile, "Get a life, B¨¤. Stop observing my rtionship with my wife."

    Shui Koshing tsked at his son''s pettiness, "You both are the most interesting thing to me these days." He took a pause and added, "Actually, don''t worry. I''ll stop paying so much attention to you both in theing days."

    "Oh?" Shui Xian raised his brow at his father inquisitively. "Why is that?"

    "I''m gonna spend some time with Yue Yue and Chenyan," told Shui Koshing. "Oh, by the way, I kind of forgot to tell you. Yue Yue was kind of a cousin to your mom." Shui Xian looked at his father with surprise. "They weren''t blood-rted but they were like sisters. It''s sad that your mom is no longer here with us."

    Shui Xian''s brows furrowed up when he heard his father''s words. He suddenly recalled that he had felt a sense of familiarity with Mother Yue when they first met and she treated him so gently and lovingly as well.

    "Did I meet her when I was young?" asked Shui Xian curiously.

    "Of course, you did!" replied Shui Koshing. "I don''t think you''d recall it since you''re very young at that time. But whenever you and Yanjun yed together, she was always there with both of you."

    "With me and Yanjun?" repeated Shui Xian.

    Shui Koshing nodded his head, "Yes! Both of you loved to spend time with her. She was always your ymate. Not only that, she used to cook for both of you. And I still remember how you loved to annoy your mom, telling her how Aunt Yue is a better cook than her."

    "I did that?" Shui Xian fell into deep thought. Actually, there were some vague images in his mind but he was really young and really couldn''t recall all of it.

    But there were some things that he could recall. For instance, how he told his mother that Aunt Yue''s food tastes better. Because that was something his mother never let him forget even inter years.

    "B¨¤, how is Aunt Yue rted to Yanjun?"

    "Yanjun is her nephew," said Shui Koshing making Shui Xian''s eyes widen in surprise.

 Chapter 178 - A Loser?

    That one sentence allowed Shui Xian''s brain to go into a frenzy. There were so many things running through his mind. In just a few minutes, his mind had drawn up so many connections that even he was surprised.

    The fact that Zhai Yanjun and Yue Fai were rted hit him hard. His fingers ran through his hair as he tried to process the information that was thrown at him.

    "Where is Raelle going?"

    His father''s question broke Shui Xian''s train of thought and he turned his head to look over.

    "She must have gone to get something from the bedroom," answered Shui Xian to his father knowingly.

    "She could have just asked the help to get it for her. Did I hire a whole parade of helpers just for show?"

    Shui Xian''s lips curled up slightly, "B¨¤, it seems you haven''t noticed."

    "Noticed what?" Shui Koshing inquired incredulously.

    "My wife rarely interacts with the help at home."

    While Shui Koshing looked confused, Shui Xian didn''t exin it to him. He also realized recently that Raelle didn''t interact with the servants at home. He didn''t know why she did it, and he didn''t ask either.

    "What''s wrong?" asked Shui Xian when Raelle came back downstairs.

    "Why do you think something''s wrong?" she retorted.

    "I can see it on your face," he replied.

    Raelle lifted her hand to touch her face then sat down beside him and turned on her iPad that she just brought from the bedroom. Opening the email, she downloaded a file and looked through the content. The file only had photos and when she clicked it open, even Shui Xian couldn''t help staring at it.

    "What''s this?"

    Raelle swiped to check the next photo as she told him, "Yanyan just called to let me know that my husband''s quite famous."

    "Me? Famous?"

    "Someone trailed us today and clicked these pictures."

    "On whose order?"

    Raelle tapped her finger on the edge of the iPad before telling him, "Your sister."

    Shui Xian''s face darkened when he heard that and had to close his eyes to take a long and deep breath to keep calm. He took the iPad from her hand saying, "I''ll deal with it."

    "You don''t have to," replied Raelle. "My security team is quite efficient. There is a reason why Raelle Xiang''s face is known as a mysterious person." She took a pause and added, "Also, it is my security team leader who believes that the real person behind that photographer wasn''t Shui Sying. After all, if your sister wants to learn about me, all she has to do ise here. She wouldn''t do something like stalking people."

    "You don''t even know my sister," reminded Shui Xian.

    "That doesn''t mean I don''t know you," was her response. "At the end of the day, she is your sister. How bad she can possibly be?"

    Shui Xian wanted to say something but seeing the photo before his eyes, he paused. His eyes sparkled as he said, "Send this to me."

    Raelle looked over at the screen. The photo was clicked when they were at the caf¨¦ and Shui Xian had held her hand to drop a kiss on the back of her hand. One could see how skilled the photographer was. Because just from this still photo, Shui Xian was able to re-live that exact moment.

    "What are you gonna do with it?"

    "We don''t have any wedding photos," said Shui Xian. "So, obviously, I''m gonna develop this photo and hang it in our bedroom."

    "That''s unnecessary," was Raelle''s response.

    "That unnecessary thing is quite necessary to me!"

    Raelle chose to stay quiet and let him do whatever he wanted with this photo. It wasn''t like it''d hurt her in any way.

    ....

    ~~Memory House~~

    Memory House was one of the famous gourmet restaurants in the city. It was quite difficult to get a reservation on normal days. Unless one made it days before.

    Currently, Hyson was being led to one of the private rooms where Miss Sora was waiting for him. Since she said she wanted to meet him over the meal, she indeed called him out on dinner.

    Beforeing here, Hyson even had a discussion with his manager who told him, ''When Miss Sora said that she''d like to talk to you before confirming the day when you can join the shoot. Thepany decided to wait before telling you. You said it yourself that I shouldn''t disturb you unless everything is confirmed.''

    When the attendant opened the door for Hyson, he could see a woman waiting for him inside.

    "Hyson," called out Sora as she saw Hyson and gestured him toe inside. "Have a seat!" Then she looked at the attendant and told him, "You can start serving the food now."

    The attendant gave a nod before walking out courteously.

    Hyson took a seat and didn''t beat around the bush as he inquired, "I wonder why Miss Sora wanted to see me here."

    "What''s the rush?" Sora was keeping a smile on her face as she continued to observe his face with starry eyes. "By the way, can you stop calling me ''Miss Sora''? Just say my name."

    Hyson pursed his lips and chose not to say anything to her. He wasn''t familiar with her and didn''t n to get familiar as well.

    "No matter how I look at you, you''re still the perfect Yang Anyu in my eyes," said Sora sincerely. "But it''s a shame that my friend, Mia doesn''t think so." Hyson didn''t disturb her as he allowed her to continue. "The director of ''Secret'', Amiah Jade thinks that youck the most important thing needed to y out the role of Yang Anyu."

    "And that is?"

    Sora took a pause before asking, "Do you know what makes love so beautiful and memorable?" Hyson''s brows knitted up as he waited for her to go on. "It''s pain. Pain makes love beautiful and memorable." She stopped talking when the servers brought the food and served it. And only began when they left, "Your audition was great. Really! Even though I heard it was your first time acting, you indeed gave otherspetition with your skills. Your eyes couldn''t portray the painful longing that love brings out."

    Hyson didn''t mind her words. In fact, he wasn''t even surprised as well. After all, how could he disy an emotion he never went through? Love was foreign to him. Unless people ask him about the love he had for his family that consisted of Mother Yue, Raelle, Mu Chenyan, and Grandfather Xiang.

    And the concept of pain was quite different for him.

    "Then howe I got selected?"

    "Because I''m a stubborn person," said Sora without hesitation. "From the moment I saw you, I believed that Yang Anyu came to life. That character that only lived in my imagination now stood before my eyes. How could I not fight for him?"

    "Perhaps, someone else could y Yang Anyu''s role better than me," said Hyson.

    Sora shook her head, "Nope! The person who had acted better than you couldn''t make me feel anything. Yang Anyu is like my baby. He is not just a character, it''s more than that to me. You might think I''m chasing perfection but that''s not true. While chasing perfection, I don''t want my characters toe off as stiff. I want them to be real. And I believe you''d be able to do it."

    "Since you''ve already decided that I''d y the role of Yang Anyu, I wonder what did you really want to talk to me about?"

    Sora took the script out of her backpack and passed it to him. "I want you to read it. After two days, we''re having the first script reading. You obviously have toe but also, I want you to study this character in depth. If you have any questions, you have my personal phone number. You can contact me anytime."

    "Why am I getting this special treatment?"

    "Because I want to prove someone wrong!" replied Sora with a strange expression. "This isn''t just a test for you. It''s for me as well because I selected you. You don''t only have to prove your own capabilities but you also have to prove that my vision isn''t wrong."

    Hyson looked at her with aplicated gaze, "Aren''t you putting me under a lot of pressure?"

    "No pressure," said Sora. "Let''s just say it this way... I believe in you. You should also believe in yourself. Let''s show the world that we won''t give up so easily."

    Hyson didn''t know why she selected him even if it was at the expense of fighting with her best friend. However, he knew that when she said, ''I believe in you'' she meant it. He could see her sincerity in her eyes clearly. And that alone was enough to make him want to prove himself. He never had a habit of backing off without a fight.

    His best friend was a winner, how could he be a loser?

 Chapter 179 - Reunion Dinner

    When Hyson came back to the dorm, he was surprised to find the all the members had gathered around. Even Huang Shuyi hade back from his sleep sanctuary.

    "Oh! Our young one is back!" Huang Shuyi was the first one to get up and hug Hyson who was taken aback by this enthusiasm. Huang Shuyi even rubbed his head like he was petting a dog as he said, "Trust me, Xiao Fai, I missed you a lot."

    "Did you even have time to miss me?" Hyson shot back without holding anything back.

    Fang Yiwen snorted withughter, "I always have faith in Yue Fai to say the right thing."

    "Little vampire, shut up!" said Huang Shuyi to Fang Yiwen before turning to Hyson. "Why are you always suspicious? Even if I spent my days sleeping, I continued to see you in my dreams. What does that prove? It proves that I genuinely was missing you!"

    "Is that why you came back earlier than nned?" questioned Hyson. From his expressions, one could easily deduce that the young man didn''t believe his words at all.

    "No," the answer came from Lin Zhen who was feeling strange seeing Huang Shuyi''s enthusiasm. Usually, this red-haired devil only knew how to sleep. He couldn''t tell what happened in the past two weeks to make him act so excited. Did he take the wrong medicine or did he finally managed to sleep enough? Deciding not to focus on Huang Shuyi, he told everyone, "Shuyi is approached to be a mentor for an idol training show. And that''s why thepany called him back from his sanctuary."

    "That''s good news," said Hyson sincerely. "Congrattions, Yi Ge."

    "Xiao Fai, what do you think I value more? My sleep or this show?"

    "Your sleep!" responded Hyson without any scruples.

    Lin Zhen interjected at this point in a harsh tone, "Shuyi, you better not cook up any ideas in that brain of yours."

    Huang Shuyi looked at the leader of their group as he said, "Zhen Ge, aren''t you overthinking? I don''t like tiring things. What makes you think I''d like to ''cook up ideas''? My brain''s energy will run out sooner if I started thinking like you do."

    Hyson and Fang Yiwen chuckled at Huang Shuyi''s words while Lin Zhen was left ring at him.

    "Forget it, we should all eat first. It has been days since we all ate together," said Lin Zhen as he ushered everyone to get to the dining table.

    "Yiwen Ge," began Hyson. "Didn''t I tell you I was going out on dinner with the screenwriter?"

    Fang Yiwen pushed Hyson down on the chair saying, "Yes, you did. But as if I don''t know you. Our Yue Fai can''t eat well with strangers. It took you a year to get familiar with all of us and only then you lookedfortable eating with us."

    "Aiyo! Xiao Fai, poor thing! You didn''t get to eat well?" asked Huang Shuyi with concern. "It''s a good thing that Zhen Ge has some conscience left even after moving out. See! He cooked so many things for us."

    Lin Zhen snorted when he heard that, "Howe I only look like a good leader when I cook for you Shuyi?"

    "Do you have any other qualities?" retorted Huang Shuyi.

    Lin Zhen''s body moved over as if he wanted to hit Huang Shuyi but fortunately, someone held him back. Pei Zi Hong had been sitting silently since the time he came back after receiving Lin Zhen''s call. And he only talked now when he tried to calm down Lin Zhen, "Don''t listen to him. You know how he is."

    Lin Zhen looked at Pei Zi Hong''s face before taking a deep breath to calm himself. He decided to disregard Huang Shuyi and turned to Hyson, "Little Fai, this dinner is specially prepared for you. Congrattions!"

    "Yes! Congrats, our young one!"

    "More power to you!"

    "Congrattions, Xiao Fai!"

    Hyson was momentarily taken aback when he heard all of them congratting him sincerely. And when he looked at the table filled with dishes that he liked to eat, he felt touched and fortunate to have met this group of people.

    He scratched the back of his head in embarrassment as he said, "There was no need for all of this. It''s just a movie role. No big deal."

    "What do you mean by it''s just a movie role?" questioned Huang Shuyi. "Do you even realize how big the ''Secret'' franchise is?" He took a pause and went on, "You''re gonna y the role of ''Yang Anyu.'' It''s a character that left the fans withplex feelings. Even the author of the book imed that Yang Anyu is the most precious baby to her. Don''t you dare take it lightly!"

    Hyson stared at him before ncing around at others, "Zhen Ge, when did Yi Ge get so passionate about something?"

    "Isn''t it because he is part of those millions of fans of the book?" responded Lin Zhen knowingly. "He had been more nervous and excited than you since he found out what character you''re about to y."

    "So, you all gathered for this dinner?" asked Hyson.

    "Yes, and to catch up as well."

    "We were all together just about two weeks ago," reminded Hyson.

    "Really? Why did I feel like it''s been longer than that?"

    Hyson didn''t continue this discussion as he focused on eating. Everything on the table was to his liking, how could he refuse? Besides, it was true that he didn''t eat anything with Sora earlier. To not make the dinner awkward, he did take a few bites. He didn''t want to be disrespectful to thedy before her but he really wasn''t able to eat more with a stranger.

    "Yiwen, what did I tell youst time?!"

    Hyson looked up when he heard Lin Zhen calling out Fang Yiwen, thetter had his phone in one hand and his chopsticks in the other hand. Clearly, most of his attention was on his phone screen.

    "You said to not use my phone on the breakfast table," replied Fang Yiwen calmly. "Good thing, currently we are at the dinner table."

    "It''s the same bloody table!" growled Lin Zhen through gritted teeth.

    "Pfft!"

    The rest of them couldn''t helpughing at seeing this scene. Seriously, all of them really knew how to test Lin Zhen''s patience.

 Chapter 180 - Donâ€™t Romanticize Everything

    The atmosphere over the dinner was particrly good tonight. Perhaps, it was because all of these men gathered after days so they had a lot to talk about. No matter what, each of them found this atmosphere infectious and couldn''t help smiling throughout the whole dinner.

    As always, Lin Zhen had a lot to criticize about each of them and didn''t forget to lecture this bunch of kids that he was raising for years now. Fang Yiwen was Fang Yiwen. He''d do anything to irritate the hell out of this ''mother hen.''

    Then there was Huang Shuyi who rarely had his eyes fully opened and tonight seemed to be the night where all his energy was replenished and he was itching to discuss the details of Hyson''s role with him. The only one who was silent throughout this mess was Pei Zi Hong. However, he had a smile permanently etched on his face as he watched all of his members together.

    "Oi! Zi Hong, why so quiet?" asked Fang Yiwen as he pushed his hair back from his forehead. "Don''t tell me your girlfriend asked to break up?"

    That remark earned him a p on his head from Lin Zhen, "Is that something you should say to him? If you can''t wish him happiness, don''t curse his happiness either!"

    Fang Yiwen rubbed his head and grumbled incoherently under his breath.

    On the side, Huang Shuyi turned Hyson''s face towards himself, "Don''t pay attention to them. You give me something to look forward to."

    "What do you want to know, Yi Ge?" inquired Hyson helplessly.

    "Any inside news?" suggested Huang Shuyi. "Anything is fine with me. After all, you''re gonna y Yang Anyu. That''s like the legendary character. He is my most favorite viin in the whole series."

    As Huang Shuyi said that, everyone around him turned silent. Soon, the three gathered around them and Pei Zi Hong took the lead to ask, "Viin? Our Fai is gonna y the role of a viin?"

    Fang Yiwen''s tongue darted out as he licked his canines before speaking up, "Have you met our Fai? Can he even y the role of a viin? Who is the idiot who offered him such a role? Isn''t he more suitable to be the pretty guy or the cute brother?"

    Huang Shuyi gave them a detestable look as if they were a bunch of idiots. "What do you all know?" Even his tone and words showed how he looked down on them for being ignorant right now. "Whether Yang Anyu was a viin in the series or not is still under the heated debate. The whole fandom wants to know what the author was thinking when she created such a character." He looked Hyson up and down before nodding in appreciation, "I can see why she selected him. The peculiarity of this character lies in how innocent he looked. He was so loveable that when his real face was shown, the whole fandom rioted."

    "Miss Sora said she thinks her Yang Anyu came to life when she looks at me," Hyson also gave his input. "That is why she insisted on choosing me even though I have no prior experience in performing arts."

    Huang Shuyi nodded agreeably, "From what I know of this author. Sora is very sensitive when ites to Yang Anyu''s character. She was criticized for female and male protagonists'' character but she didn''t react but once someone only wrote that they hate Yang Anyu, she lost her temper. Since then it''s widely known to fans that she values this character more than anyone else."

    "Hmm..." Hyson hummed in response. "She told me how much this character or in her words, her baby means to her."

    "What else did she say, Yue Fai?" inquired Lin Zhen. Hyson raised his brow in question and Lin Zhen ced his hand on his shoulder saying, "Since the moment you came back, I can see something is up with you. She must have said something to make you think so deeply."

    "Oh..." responded Hyson dryly and thought back of what Sora said to him. He took a deep breath, "She said there is somethingcking in me."

    "What?"

    "In my audition, the one thing thatcked was... The expression of painful longing that only love brings out. To be very honest, it went all over my head." Since these people made him feelfortable, Hyson didn''t try to hide anything and told them honestly.

    Hyson was surprised to see how the rest of them fell into deep thought.

    "Four heads are better than one," said Fang Yiwen. "We''ll definitelye up with a solution for this issue."

    "Wait!" called out Pei Zi Hong. "Xiao Fai, have you ever had a crush on someone?"

    Hyson didn''t even have to think before he shook his head.

    "So, you never even liked anyone?" questioned Huang Shuyi and Hyson gave him a nod in reply again.

    "And here I thought you only avoided dating people," muttered Lin Zhen. "This problem is serious. You''re twenty-four and yet you''ve never had a crush on anyone."

    "I remember my first crush," announced Fang Yiwen with a nostalgic glint in his eyes. "I was in middle school. I was trying to catch a bus when she offered her hand to me. It was such a romantic moment that my heart kept beating wildly."

    Hyson frowned at his words, "If my best friend heard your words, she''d tell you that after running to catch a bus, it''s very normal for our heart to beat wildly. There is no need to romanticize everything."

    Fang Yiwen choked on the memory that was still ying in his head as he gaped at Hyson in disbelief. Since he couldn''t bring himself to be harsh with Hyson, he chose to turn towards Huang Shuyi for help, "Shuyi, who was your first crush? And how did it happen?"

    Huang Shuyi also followed suit and flowed down the memoryne as he smiled softly, "She was my deskmate in school. Since I liked to sleep during ss, she''d always take notes for me."

    Hyson snorted, "That''s called taking advantage of someone''s goodwill. She was being a good neighbor by helping you and yet you exploited her feelings. Also, since she helped you, your heart took the wrong message. It''s quite possible that your feelings towards her were of gratitude."

    "I dated her! She was my first girlfriend!"

    Hyson shrugged his shoulders indifferently, "Yes, you did because you wanted to not feel guilty of taking advantage of her goodwill."

    Huang Shuyi was feeling so mad that he picked up a bottle of water and gulped it down to extinguish the fire burning in his heart!

 Chapter 181 - Youâ€™re Attracted To...

    After calming down, Huang Shuyi looked at Lin Zhen, "Take it from here."

    "After failing to make the goal, you''re throwing the ball in my court?" Lin Zhen was amused at Hyson''s words but didn''t forget to taunt Lin Zhen.

    "What are you saying?" Huang Shuyi feigned shock and innocence. "I just want you to share something about your first crush to enlighten our young one."

    Lin Zhen didn''t continue to tease Huang Shuyi as he seriously thought about his first crush. A soft smile bloomed on his face as he shared with them, "She used toe to my mom''s flower shop every single day to buy a bouquet of roses right after school. And I used to follow her around like a fool."

    "Oh! I never thought our Zhen Ge loved someone from afar," said Fang Yiwen yfully bumping his shoulder with Lin Zhen. "Zhen Ge, that''s sweet."

    "Sweet?" repeated Hyson and everyone''s expressions changed when Hyson opened his mouth. They just knew it was bound to not end well and Hyson didn''t disappoint them as well as he continued, "You literally stalked a girl daily from school. How is that sweet? That''s a crime!"

    Unlike Fang Yiwen and Huang Shuyi, Lin Zhen wasn''t angry after hearing Hyson''s words. He had a remarkable level of eptance and patience. So, he only shook his head at Hyson but didn''t show any signs that he was displeased with Hyson''s remarks.

    "Fai, don''t be so cruel," said Huang Shuyi. "Zi Hong, you''re next."

    Pei Zi Hong stared at Hyson''s face for a long moment before speaking, "My first crush was back in kindergarten. I used to pull her hair. I added toothpaste to his sandwich."

    "You mean you bullied a girl?" questioned Hyson with raised brows.

    Pei Zi Hong''s lips twitched, "Haven''t you heard that boys always tease the girl they like to get her attention? It''s a form of flirting."

    "No matter how nicely you say it, bullying is bullying. As I said earlier, stop trying to romanticize everything."

    "Well guess what! It worked for me. She is my current girlfriend!" shouted Pei Zi Hong.

    Hyson tutted at him, "Then I feel bad for her. Just because she is your girlfriend doesn''t justify your bullying. You should ask her once, I''m pretty sure that she still carries the bad experience from her kindergarten that you made her go through." Pei Zi Hong suddenly fell silent and Hyson inquired, "What''s wrong? Don''t have anything to say?"

    Pei Zi Hong sighed out, "You''re right. She indeed remembers our kindergarten years as a bad memory. And it''s all because of me."

    Hyson nodded his head, "I knew it. Just because you did it as a joke, doesn''t mean the other person took it as a joke."

    Lin Zhen suddenly ced a hand on Hyson''s shoulder when he felt that Hyson was quite aggressive towards Pei Zi Hong. Hyson turned his head towards him inquisitively, "Yue Fai, is everything okay? Why do I feel like you''re quite sensitive towards bullying?"

    Hyson pursed his lips when he realized that he let himself show the emotions he had suppressed for far too long now. Or were those really suppressed emotions? After all, he never actively thought about those times.

    "Did someone bully our Yue Fai?" inquired Fang Yiwen hesitating a little.

    "It''s been too long," Hyson waved his hand nonchntly. "I was just saying that none of you had a good first crush experience. I really don''t know why you find it all beautiful."

    The rest of them shared a look and tacitly chose to avoid bringing up the topic that Hyson just avoided. But this made them realize how little they actually knew about Hyson even after staying together for over five years.

    It wasn''t that they were curious to learn more about him, it was just that Hyson always kept his life too private.

    "Coming back to the topic," Huang Shuyi pulled the discussion back from the tense atmosphere. "Xiao Fai, you''ve really never felt attracted to someone? Just a simple crush?"

    Hyson shook his head honestly, "What kind of attraction are we talking about here?"

    "Sexual attraction!" Huang Shuyi said it straightforwardly. "What other kind of attraction is there?"

    "I''ve been told there are different forms of attractions. For instance, romantic attraction, aesthetic attraction, sensual or physical attraction, tonic attraction, and emotional attraction." Hyson took a pause to take a breath before continuing, "That is why I was confirming." He scratched the tip of his nose as he said, "And to answer your question, no! I''ve never felt sexually attracted to anyone in my life."

    "Not even a single girl caught your attention?" asked Pei Zi Hong and Hyson shook his head.

    "Then perhaps..." Fang Yiwen began before taking a step back. "Maybe... Men?"

    Hyson noticed his movement of stepping back as he snorted, "You''re thinking too highly of yourself Yiwen Ge. I''m equally not interested in men or women."

    Lin Zhen frowned at his reply. "Yue Fai, by any chance, are you...?"

    He couldn''t find the way to say it and couldn''t bring himself to say it for some reason. But Hyson didn''t think as much like him as he helped him by answering his unasked question, "You''re on the right track, Zhen Ge. I''m asexual. That is why I''ve never been sexually attracted to anyone in my life."

    He saw how shocked the others were to hear him say it so calmly and didn''t know what to say. Hyson smiled at them as he said, "That is why this role is quite a challenge for me. I really have no idea how to make people believe through a screen that I''m in love when I don''t even know myself what it feels like." He suddenly thought back to how he always lectured Raelle and his smile deepened, "I always tell my best friend to practically experience everything. But I am not that different from her. We both only have the theoretical knowledge of love."

 Chapter 182 - The Precious One

    For the first time when Hyson noticed that he was different, he had done the mistake of mentioning it to Raelle. And the world''s best-est best friend answered him with, ''No wonder you managed to stay with me for so long. From the beginning, you weren''t normal either.''

    However,ter that same best friend asked him in detail why he thought he was different. And even took him to a doctor. Later when it was confirmed that he was an asexual, he wasn''t even surprised.

    And since he didn''t feel any surprise, it didn''t change anything in his life either.

    "What''s with this serious mood?" Hyson chuckled at the reaction of everyone around him. "It''s not like I''m sick. Just like people are heterosexual, bi-sexual, I''m just asexual. There is no need to look so sad."

    "We are not sad," Pei Zi Hong took the lead to talk.

    "Yes, we are just shocked," Fang Yiwen added.

    "It seems I''m the only one who is wondering how to help our Xiao Fai," said Huang Shuyi.

    "He doesn''t need help," Lin Zhen''s voice took a sharp turn.

    "Lin Zhen, he needs to y the role of someone who devoted his life to love! But he doesn''t even know love! Of course, he needs help!"

    When Huang Shuyi said it like that, only then did they realize that their original conversation started from this topic. They gathered around to help Hyson find the feeling of love to help him connect better with his role. But now...

    "Yi Ge is absolutely right," Hyson also spoke up. "I do need help."

    "Yue Fai, you don''t think so much about it," said Lin Zhen patiently. "You have the script. You should go through it. First, understand your character well. As for the right feelings, we''lle up with a n."

    Fang Yiwen, "Yes, he is right. You must be tired. Go and take a rest."

    As Hyson was pushed towards his room, he didn''t resist. He could tell that after sending him away, the four of them nned on having a meeting. He was amused by their antics but didn''t say anything about it. Instead, as he was told, he went to his room.

    After washing up, he slid under the nket and took out the script he received today. After staring at the title for a long time, he picked up his phone and made a call.

    As soon as the call connected, he whined, "My head hurts."

    "Oh, it seems your brain is finally trying toprehend its own stupidity," came the prompt reply from the other side. "Good for you. Finally, you''re progressing somewhere."

    Hyson''s lips curved up even though he could clearly hear that his intelligence was being questioned but the person questioning his intelligence was the genius. So, if that genius was the one calling him stupid indirectly then one can''t possibly argue.

    But just because he epted it, didn''t mean he was willing to silently take it all. No way he was going down without a fight!

    "I really wish I could turn back the time. I want to 9 years old again," he said.

    "Why? Got new ideas to ruin your life?"

    "No, this time I''ll choose to turn left on the road where I lost my way. That way, I''d be able to avoid meeting you."

    Raelle was silent for a minute before she said, "When you''re bound to meet the right people, even wrong roads can lead you to them."

    Hysonughed out loud and it took him a while to calm down, "Ellie, I have a question for you."

    "What?"

    "What do you call a snake that is 3.14m long?"

    "I''m not answering that," replied Raelle.

    "Why? You don''t know the answer?" teased Hyson on purpose.

    "A snake that is 3.14m long is called a python! Because 3.14 is the value of pi in calculus. I don''t even know why I''m ying along with you."

    "Because you always do," he told her with a grin on his face. "I can doubt anything in life but I can never doubt the fact that you won''t give me an answer. You''re my soulmate friend, you not only have answers for me, you never shy away from answering me."

    Hyson heard some shuffling from her side before he heard her voice, "Hyson, what''s going on? There is no way you called me to y a childish game with me."

    "And if I did call just for that purpose, what can you do to me?"

    "There is so much I can do but..."

    "You don''t want to," interrupted Hyson. "I''m the only one in your life who can get away with anything."

    "Feeling proud?"

    "Very!" replied Hyson cheekily.

    "If you''re done talking nonsense,e back to the main topic."

    "I passed the audition."

    "Congrattions!" said Raelle. "However, why does it seem like something is bothering you?"

    "I met the screenwriter earlier and she said something that I can''t seem to forget."

    "What did she say?"

    "She said she believes in me," answered Hyson. "Isn''t it weird?"

    "How is it weird? Didn''t I tell you that I believe in you?"

    "You''re different," stressed Hyson. "You''re my friend. Why you believe in me, I can somewhat understand. But I can''t understand her. This was the second time we met and yet, she said she believes in me. And she even put her own reputation on the line just to give me this role. I''m not able to understand it."

    "Aren''t you quite knowledgeable about human emotions?"

    Hyson scoffed, "You and I both know that just because I can feel emotions, I might not be able to understand people like you do. You''ve studied human behavior for so long. In the end, I might be more willing to believe in your analysis than what I''m feeling."

    "I told you before that you should stop assuming that you''re not deserving of something. You''re a lot more talented than you give yourself credit for. You have a confident best friend, why are you so unconfident?" Raelle took a pause and went on, "I don''t know that screenwriter but I can tell you why she believes in you. She can see the real you. If anything, I''d say she has a good vision. She has the eye to appreciate my treasured best friend."

    Hyson''s face stiffened before he whispered, "I might be the treasure but you''re the precious one between us. Thank you for keeping up with my mood swings!"

    "How troublesome!" said Raelle before hanging up the call making Hysonugh out at her reaction.

 Chapter 183 - Did You Miss Me?

    For the next few days, Hyson had pushed himself to study the character he was about to y. He was so deeply engrossed in his own study that he even had no time to go and annoy Raelle.

    However, as soon as he found some time after the script reading, he chose to go and find his best friend whom he hadn''t seen in days. Needless to say, there was something missing in his life these days. All because he couldn''t annoy Raelle.

    Since he had the ess to enter Raelle''s office building, he didn''t need to inform her beforehand. While walking over to Raelle''s office, he took a turn and thought of saying ''hi'' to his dedicated fan.

    He lifted his hand and was about to knock on the ss door which was slightly ajar. But before he could knock on the door, he heard Cloe''s displeased voice, "Yes, I can hear you, mother. I understand that your hospital expenses are getting bigger. I''ll send more money this month."

    "That''s good," came the voice of a middle-aged woman.

    Since Cloe had the phone on speakerphone, the voice could be heard by Hyson as well who couldn''t help frowning. He didn''t want to eavesdrop and that''s why he turned to leave but before he could, the door was pulled open and Cloe stared at him with a pleasant surprise.

    Before she could open her mouth to greet him, her mother''s voice rang out from the phone she held in her hand, "Your aunt wants to talk to you."

    Cloe silently groaned and Hyson couldn''t help chuckling at her reaction. She looked so fed up.

    ''I''ll go now,'' mouthed Hyson to tell her that he was gonna leave now. He didn''t want to disturb her phone call at all.

    Cloe however, didn''t allow him to leave as she shook her head and whispered, "Please stay. I need someone to stop me frommitting a murder."

    Hyson raised his brow inquisitively. He was puzzled at what she meant but soon he got the answer when the voice of a different woman came from the speaker of her phone, "Cloe! How are you? It seems you''re doing really well. I just saw the new car you gifted your father. It looks quite expensive." There was a touch of sourness in the woman''s voice that could be perceived by anyone. "It seems your boss treats you really well. I saw the photo of the gift your boss gave you on your birthday. I didn''t know employers treated their employees so well. Your uncle is alwaysining about how badly his boss treats him."

    Cloe could hear what she was trying to suggest. It made her lips twitch and she closed her eyes briefly before gritting out, "My boss is a woman, Aunt. I don''t have an affair with her. She is genuinely a nice person and that''s only why she treats me so well." Cloe inwardly cursed herself for actually uploading the photo of the gift that Raelle gave her on her birthday on her social media. These rtives had quite some imagination.

    "Oh..." responded the woman. "Then you''re really fortunate."

    "I also think so," replied Cloe.

    She heard the cry of a baby from the phone before the woman said, "Your sister''s baby is so cute. That reminded me... When are you getting married?"

    "I knew it wasing," whispered Cloe to Hyson as she covered the phone''s receiver and made a fist as if she wished to punch someone right now.

    Her aunt clearly didn''t think it was inappropriate to talk about this as she continued on her own rhythm, "Hear me out. You''re already reaching your thirties. If you wait any longer, it''ll get difficult to get married in the future. Your sister is younger than you and is already married. She is so happy with her family. Especially now that a new member is added. You should also strive for your happiness."

    Cloe was sick of hearing how happy her sister was after getting married. It had been going on for years now. And she was genuinely tired now. She could see that Hyson didn''t want to hear all of this but she didn''t want him to leave either. She knew she''d do something crazy if there was no one to hold her back.

    And it was best to have Hyson. At least, seeing him her anger could decrease like magic.

    Hyson leaned close to her ear and said, "You really aren''t going to say anything? Your silence is only gonna make her audacity grow."

    Cloe gave him a smile and took a deep breath, "Since we are getting so personal here... Aunt, why don''t you tell me how you''re marriage is working out for you?"

    Hyson widened his eyes at her and it seemed the woman on the call was also taken aback as her voice grew sharp, "What do you mean?"

    "Since you''re iming that marriage is happiness, then I''d like to know how happy your married life is? From what I know, every other day you have an argument with your husband ande to stay with him at your brother''s house. Just because my parents don''t tell me that doesn''t mean I don''t know how many days of the month you spend at my house."

    "Is this something you should be saying to me? Did you forget to respect your elders now that you''re sessful?"

    "If elders have self-respect, they shouldn''t forget that younger generation also has some self-respect. I don''t need you to constantly remind me that my life is unfulfilled just because I haven''t gotten married. That was your goal, that was my sister''s goal. I''m happy to see that you both got what you wanted. But since I never questioned your goals, you shouldn''t question mine." She took a deep breath and went on, "Give my mom the message that I''ll send her money. She doesn''t need to remind me again."

    After that, she didn''t even wait for an answer before hanging up the phone. She stared at Hyson''s face who was staring at her hand that was wrapped around his wrist and holding him back from leaving.

    "That was personal," said Hyson. "You should have let me leave first."

    "I don''t think it was personal," replied Cloe.

    "Your rtionship with your family..." Hyson hesitated a little before adding, "It seems a little strained."

    Cloe scoffed, "It''s not little. And there is nothing new about that either. My dear mother thinks that I''m a credit card. Since she raised me, I owe it to her to take care of all her needs." She shook her head, "This is why I often feel envious of my boss. Her bond with her family is precious. At least, it isn''t a rtionship of giving and taking."

    "A little reminder that your boss doesn''t have parents," said Hyson. "Unlike you. At least, your parents raised you. Honestly speaking, there is nothing enviable about Raelle''s life. Nothing at all. And you''ve figured it out as well."

    Cloe offered him a smile before asking, "I''m sorry you had to hear all of that. I just didn''t want to be alone. Whenever I get a call from home, I feel suffocated. That is why I held you back. I know it was selfish of me, I''m really sorry."

    "It''s alright," Hyson shrugged his shoulders. "I just got to see a new side of the world. I should say thanks for the enlightenment. I suddenly feel even more respect for my mum."

    "When did youe? And why so suddenly?"

    "Oh, I came to see my best friend. I have to travel around the country for the shooting of my movie. So, I thought to meet my Ellie before leaving her. I have to make sure she doesn''t forget me while I''m gone."

    Cloe chuckled at his words, "I don''t think Chief can forget you."

    Hyson smiled in reply and recalled something, "Next time, be careful of what you post on your social media."

    Cloe sighed out, "You''re right. I didn''t think that my rtives would actually have such a rich imagination. They actually assumed that I have something going on with Chief? No matter how beautiful she is, she isn''t my cup of tea! I''m never posting anything on social media again."

    "No, that''s wrong," said Hyson. "Next time, just block your rtives before posting anything."

    "Ohhh... Smart! Why didn''t I think of this?"

    Hyson talked with her for a while before asking, "What is my best friend up to?"

    Cloe checked the time before saying, "Ah! It''s lunch hour! I need to bring her lunch."

    "Alright then! Since she is free, I''ll just go to her now," said Hyson before he waved her goodbye and took a turn towards Raelle''s office. When he reached the office, as always, he only knocked once and pushed open the door without a care. And as per usual, he even took of his jacket and threw it at her head saying, "Yo, bestie! What''s up? Did you miss me?"

 Chapter 184 - Crossroad

    As per the daily routine, just as the lunch hour came around, Raelle walked over to the sitting area in her office and set up her iPad on the low coffee table before her. She had just settled before the camera and Shui Xian had just epted the call when the scene of Hyson throwing his jacket on Raelle''s head came before his eyes.

    He didn''t even hear Hyson''s voice since his eyes were focused on how his wife didn''t even find this action surprising. In fact, Raelle even pulled down the jacket from her head and neatly folded it before cing it on the side. Then she lifted her hand to fix her hair.

    "Is that Yue Fai?" inquired Shui Xian.

    Hearing Shui Xian''s voice, Hyson looked around and focused his eyes on Raelle who replied, "You can just consider him the part of the background. Really not important!"

    Hyson scoffed at her words before he came behind her sofa and ced her hand on the side of her head before pushing her away and jumping over the sofa to sit beside her. He looked at the video call running and grinned, "Hi, Xian Ge!"

    Shui Xian greeted him and asked him about his health before telling him, "Just this morning my dear wife was telling me that you seemed to have disappeared."

    "Wow!" Hyson ced his hand on Raelle''s head and rubbed it. "So, you really missed me."

    Raelle pinched his thigh making him groan as she said, "Did that hurt?"

    "Of course, it did!" retorted Hyson while ring at her.

    "That pain is a reminder that you should stop dreaming in the daytime."

    Hyson grumbled under his breath but didn''t say anything to her. After all, he knew she missed him. He''d just assume she was shy about saying it out loud. So, as always, he''d be the bigger person and just let it be.

    Hyson rubbed his thigh where she pinched really hard as he said, "Well, you are soon gonna miss me even more!"

    "I have better things to do," replied Raelle.

    Hysonughed out loud at her reaction, "Ellie, has there ever been a time when I said you''d do something and you didn''t do it? No! Do you know why?" Raelle didn''t reply as she continued to look at his face. "That''s because I know which wire of yours to poke. I also know which wire can create a spark. I''m just one step away from learning how to create short-circuit!"

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched at Hyson''s remarks, "Yue Fai, you''re talking about my wife. Not about a bloody circuit!"

    "Is there a difference?" Hyson shot back as he turned his eyes towards Shui Xian. "I don''t see any!"

    Shui Xian shook his head at him, "Anyway, I almost forgot... Congrattions! I heard you passed the audition!"

    Shui Xian thought he''d see Hyson''s excited look but instead, Hyson surprised him with a nd reaction as he perfunctory replied, "Thank you, Xian Ge!"

    "What''s with that reaction?" wondered Shui Xian. "Shouldn''t you be happy?"

    "I am happy but more than that, I''m distressed," answered Hyson honestly. He leaned his head on Raelle''s shoulder saying, "Ellie, I have to join the crew in a few days. We''ll be traveling for months. I might not even get the time to meet you. Don''t forget to miss me. You can''t forget me just because I''m not around."

    "As if you''ll let me forget you," responded Raelle with no visible change in her.

    "That''s true! I won''t forget to remind you of my existence every single day." Hyson''s words were more like a promise that he just made to himself. And Raelle knew this idiot was gonna do exactly what he just said. But it''s not like she minds it.

    Yes, perhaps she won''t look forward to his daily ''reminder'' of his existence but she obviously wasn''t gonna forget him just because he was going to be busy with work.

    "Huh? Don''t they usually take months before preparing everything for the shooting? Howe you''re joining the crew so soon?" questioned Shui Xian.

    "Apparently, the movie''s preparations had begun over six months ago. They just couldn''t find someone for the role of ''Yang Anyu.'' That''s why the shoot got dyed until now. But now since I''ve been selected, the director wants to start working. Besides, we have to spend two weeks with the entire cast to get familiar with each other before starting the shoot."

    "It must be hard on you," said Shui Xian. "Hang in there. We are rooting for you."

    Hyson''s lips curved up at that, "Xian Ge, I''m not scared of working hard. That''s also not why I''m distressed. It''s the character I''m about to y that''s burning my brain cells."

    "Since when did you have brain cells?"

    Hyson nced at his best friend, "Elle, I''m serious."

    "Okay, then let me know why your remaining brain cells are burning?"

    "I''ve read the script over ten times," began Hyson. "However, I''m still unable to find a connection with the character I''m about to y."

    "Why?"

    "Yang Anyu''s character can be summed up in two sentences; one, he was crazy. Two, he did everything for love." He looked up at Shui Xian, "Xian Ge, he and I have a very different character. There is no connection. So, it''s a little difficult for me to find amon ground."

    "Yue Fai, I don''t find it thatplicated though. Anyone in love is already considered crazy. Because love in itself is crazy. If someone ims to be sane while being in love then certainly, they are either not in love or they are lying. And since love is crazy, it makes us do crazy stuff as well. When you''re in love, all of your actions are based on that love. That''s why I don''t think that character is that difficult to understand."

    Hyson listened to Shui Xian in silence and even repeated his words in his mind to learn from them. Since he had been studying hardtely, he focused on every single piece of advice he received these days. And apparently, everyone around him was giving him advice these days. Except from the person sitting right beside him.

    Even now Raelle was too quiet. Although she was always quiet, she had never been quiet around him. So, he found it strange but didn''t point it out.

    "Xian Ge, can love really justify hurting someone?"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "No. Absolutely not. Love can never be a justification. In fact, when love in itself never needed a justification why would it need to justify anything else."

    "Then why do people do inexinable things in the name of love?" Hyson questioned with knitted brows.

    Shui Xian took a deep breath, "When people are in love, they often find themselves at a crossroad. A crossroad between sanity and insanity. Love is like that thread that lies between two passionate sides of a human. Some choose to follow the dark side and let that twisted darkness consume them. Or they choose to follow the passionate side and yet again let themselves get consumed."

    Hyson nodded his head as if he understood and even said out, "I finally understand it."

    "What did you understand?" The question came from Raelle who had been silently listening until now.

    "I understand that you''re always right," replied Hyson as he stared at Raelle''s face. "You said love is an emotion of destruction. It destroys the ability to be rational. It consumes your senses and makes you dependent."

    "It took you years to understand that," said Raelle. "I thought you might have to fall in love before understanding all that."

    "Maybe Yue Fai you should fall in love to understand it better," Shui Xian also suggested.

    Hyson made a face, "Xian Ge, since you''re part of the family now, I should let you know that I''m asexual."

    Shui Xian paused for a minute when he heard that before he came back to himself and said, "Your sexuality has nothing to do with falling in love. Just because you don''t feel attracted to someone doesn''t mean you can''t find a connection with someone."

    "I know that," said Hyson. "I''ve been told. However, I have felt two types of attractions in life. One is emotional and the other is tonic. Both of those were given by the same person and it just so happens that the person is currently sitting right by my side." Shui Xian raised his brow while Hyson wrapped in arm around Raelle''s shoulder and pulled her close saying, "She is the one! I only felt emotionally attracted to her when we met. Andter, it grew into a tonic attraction. Look at her! She is the most gorgeous person I''ve ever met and I work in the dazzling entertainment industry. And yet, I''ve never felt anything for her."

    "And yet you call me a soulmate!"

    "That''s because you are my soulmate!" Hyson''s reply was as cheeky as always with his grin.

 Chapter 185 - A Nice Husband

    Shui Xian coughed to get their attention as he said, "Excuse me! The one you''re calling your soulmate is my wife."

    "I know," was Hyson''s response.

    "Oh, really? I thought you needed a reminder!"

    Hyson smiled at Shui Xian, "Xian Ge, who made the rule that friends can''t be soulmates? There are no rules in friendship. Friendship might be a choice but when a friend bes a part of your whole existence, you are not someone who can decide anything after that. It just happens. The soulmates you find in friends are irreceable!"

    "And yet you im to not find a connection with your character," said Shui Xian as he raised his brow in amusement. "It isn''t that different from what you just said. In friendship you have a choice, in love, you don''t have a choice. It just really happens without you even realize it. In fact, by the time you realize the awakening of that love, it''d have already taken a root in your heart."

    While Hyson was contemting his words, Shui Xian''s gaze turned to his wife as he continued, "Although I agree with my wife that love is an emotion of destruction, I also have to say that love is often salvation as well. It does break you but it is also the only salve for a wound. The wounds of love are only capable of healing with love. There is no other cure known to men."

    There was an eerie silence in the office when they heard a knock on the door before Cloe pushed it open and came inside with Raelle''s lunch. She noticed the strange silence that gave her creeps for some reason and hurriedly put down the lunch on the table before running out of there.

    Only after Cloe left did Hyson came out of his daydreaming and asked, "Xian Ge, are you looking for a cure of your wounds in my best friend?"

    "Until now, she only knows how to rub salt on those wounds," replied Shui Xian.

    "Hang in there! Every salve stings in the beginning. My best friend is special, so it might sting for a long time but have faith. She''ll definitely cure everything." He finally noticed something and changed the topic, "By the way, what kind of lunch is this?"

    "What do you mean?" questioned Raelle.

    "If you want to have lunch together, then just get together."

    "We are having lunch together," imed Raelle.

    "Ellie, it''s more like you''re in a long-distance rtionship right now."

    Raelle gave him a nod, "Isn''t the right? There is a somewhat long distance from my office to hispany''s HQ. So, during the day we are in a long-distance rtionship."

    "Does that even make sense?"

    "Doesn''t it?" Raelle''s question was directed towards Shui Xian who had been listening to them in silence.

    And seeing that he was asked something, he instinctively nodded. In fact, he didn''t know what Raelle was asking him since a while ago, all his focus was on his wife''s face and the voices were just somewhere in the background that he purposely ignored.

    "It''s not like you can''t cross this long-distance," said Hyson while disregarding the fact that Shui Xian just agreed with Raelle''s nonsense. Her logical thinking had been so inarguable that he believed that now even if she talked nonsense, people would just ept it. And that''s exactly what happened just now.

    "Troublesome!" replied Raelle. "Also, why waste time?"

    Hyson scoffed at her, "Let''s see for how long keep this long-distance up!"

    Later, Raelle shared her lunch with Hyson without a word.

    "Yue Fai, how long is the shooting schedule?"

    "About four months," replied Hyson. "Director Jade is in a hurry to film the movie before the end of the summer. So, that they can release it by the end of the year."

    "Who is the director?" asked Shui Xian.

    "Amiah Jade," answered Hyson and Shui Xian''s face stiffened for a split second before it rxed again. "She''s an internationally renowned director. The Assistant Director and also the screenwriter of the movie is Sora. I heard that since Sora is a friend of Amiah Jade, only that''s why this director actually decided to take this job."

    Shui Xian parted his lips as if wanting to say something but as the words were at the tip of his tongue, he decided to not say it. He didn''t think it was necessary to tell Hyson anything about Amiah Jade. If he did say something, it might make Hyson feel ufortable around her.

    And from their contrasting personalities, he could already tell that Hyson was not gonna have an easy time with Amiah. And he couldn''t talk to her either, because if he did, she''d make things more difficult for Hyson on purpose. It was better to y ignorant for now.

    "Did you tell Yue?" asked Raelle. "That you have to go for four months?"

    Hyson shook his head, "No. I just got to know the details today. In fact, I only signed the contract today as well. So, now I''m nning on going to see Tianyu and Yanyan. Then in the evening, I''ll visit mum." He suddenly put the bowl of the soup in his hand on the table and held Raelle''s shoulder before making her turn to look at him, "Ellie, do you know what''s happening with Yanyan these days?"

    "Why?"

    "She looks so happy," said Hyson.

    "You don''t like her happiness?"

    "No, that''s not what I meant!" Hyson flicked her forehead lightly saying, "It''s just strange. I have never seen her glowing in this way. It''s making me really curious about what she is up to."

    "Stop being nosy and focus on your own life," Raelle advised him. "Whatever is Yanyan up to, even Opa is not curious. As long as it''s making her happy, who cares what she is up to."

    "You and I both know that nothing stays hidden from Tianyu. It''s not that he isn''t curious, it''s just that he already knows what she up to."

    "Yue Fai, you''re sounding like a neighborhood auntie who loves gossips."

    Hyson stared at Shui Xian, "Xian Ge, how can you say that? I''m not gossiping. I''m just concerned about Yanyan. And she is family. Don''t I have the right to know?"

    "Those excuses are good," replied Shui Xian with a subtle smile on his face.

    "Forget it then," said Hyson. "But let me warn you both. Before I finish my shooting, don''t you dare to hold a reception. I wasn''t even invited to my best friend''s wedding. Now, I have to be there at the reception at any cost. Just contact me before nning it. Even if I have to reshuffle the who schedule, I''ll stille."

    "We didn''t hold a wedding ceremony," reminded Shui Xian. "We only received our marriage certificates because it''s time-efficient."

    "We can arrange a wedding ceremony," said Raelle shocking both Hyson and Shui Xian. She held Hyson''s gaze as she went on, "But the condition, you''ll have to be my maid of honor."

    Hyson red at her while Shui Xian covered his mouth to hide hisughter.

    "You chicken nugget!" eximed Hyson. "Fine! You arrange a wedding and I promise to be your maid of honor! Let''s see who backs off first."

    "Really?"

    "Yes, really! After all, between you and I, the first one to back would be you," imed Hyson.

    "How are you so certain?" asked Shui Xian.

    Hyson gave a smirk to Shui Xian before looking at Raelle, "Ellie darling, do you know how much time is needed for a wedding ceremony? You have to look for wedding nners, decide on the venue, the decorations, the color of the flowers, the cake tasting, the wedding dress. It takes about four or five fitting sessions for one wedding dress. And what if you didn''t like the cake at the first tasting? Then you''ll have to arrange another day for the second tasting. Then there is a food menu as well. There is the guest list and... mmph!" Raelle has ced a hand on his mouth to shut him up.

    "Fine. I back off first. I don''t have that much time to waste. Too troublesome!"

    Hyson gave Shui Xian a look while wiggling his brows. Didn''t he say he knew which wire of hers to poke? He wasn''t just saying it! He meant it. Raelle Xiang would never do anything troublesome. A wedding is certainly considered troublesome to someone like her.

    Afterughing out loud, Hyson said, "Ellie, you have such a nice husband. You''re really not nice at all."

    Raelle shrugged her shoulders, "The one who is nice, is my husband. Does it still matter if I''m nice or not? Isn''t it enough that my husband is nice?"

    While Shui Xian''s lips curled up in a full-blown smile, Hyson was left rubbing his forehead. He really shouldn''t have started it. Since he was done talking to her, he stood up to leave, "I should let you both enjoy your time together."

    As he picked up his jacket from her side to leave, she held his hand to stop him. As Hyson turned back she said, "Take care of yourself out there. Don''t forget to take your anti-allergy medicine. And take some warm clothes. In fact, it''s alright if you forget something. Just let me know, I''ll arrange it for you."

    Hyson ced his hand on her head, "I''ll take care of myself." Then he turned to Shui Xian and added, "And you take care of her. Because she can''t do it."

    "You don''t even have to say it," replied Shui Xian.

 Chapter 186 - Traveling

    "Is it necessary for you to see how wild animals hunt?"

    At night, Raelle was sittingfortably in the lounge with the wild animal chase being shown on the huge tv screen. Shui Xian had juste upstairs with a ss of milk in his warm milk in his hand.

    He couldn''t help questioning Raelle why she was interested in the animal hunt. He sat down beside her and ced a hand on her waist pulling her in his embrace while he gave her the ss of milk.

    Raelle silently took the milk from his hand and gulped it down in one go before passing him the ss. Shui Xian ced the ss aside and used the other hand to hug her even tighter.

    "We live in a world where onlyw of jungle works," she spoke after a long time. "If you have to survive in this jungle, you need to know how the things work in the real jungle."

    Shui Xian nuzzled her neck saying, "There is still some humanity left in this concrete jungle. It''s just that people have learned to build high walls around their hearts. Because they are scared of getting hurt."

    "Is it safe for me toe up?!"

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched when he heard his father''s voice from the stairs.

    "B¨¤! It''s your house, when did you need permission to enter?"

    Shui Koshing had his hands covering his eyes when he came up. It looked amusing how he had a psychological shadow of running into his son and daughter-inw at the most awkward moments. So, this time he chose to make sure the coast was clear before he came.

    Raelle hurriedly turned off the tv and beckoned Shui Koshing, "B¨¤,e already and have a seat. It''s the first time you came to this floor since I''vee here."

    Shui Koshing sat beside them as he said, "It''s not because of you, daughter. I rarelye to this floor. It''s my son''s personal space, I don''t like intruding."

    Shui Xian looked at his father, "B¨¤, what brought you here?"

    "I have something to talk to you both."

    "Then you should have just called us downstairs. Why did you bother toe here?"

    "It''s me who wants to talk to you both, why should I order you toe to me? I should be the one toe," said Shui Koshing. "Besides, I''m not that old. I can definitely ascend this many stairs."

    "What is it about?" inquired Raelle as she gave her sole attention to Shui Koshing.

    "I have a flight at 3 in the morning, so I thought I should see you both now instead of bothering you at that time."

    "You''re going somewhere?" This question came from Shui Xian who was frowning slightly in confusion. His father rarely went out of the house since he stopped working. So, he couldn''t think of where he''d want to go now.

    "Hmm..." hummed Shui Koshing in response. "I''m going to TaiLeng.[1]"

    Shui Xian frowned at that and looked displeased, "Why?"

    "Second Uncle is sent to the hospital. I just received the news. It doesn''t look good if I don''t go during this time."

    "How about I go with you?" suggested Shui Xian.

    "No," Shui Koshing hurriedly shook his head. "You stay here with my daughter."

    Shui Xian looked at Raelle and then turned to his father, "But I don''t want you to go there alone."

    Shui Koshing patted his shoulder, "And I don''t want to bring you there with me."

    "B¨¤!"

    "No more discussion over this," said Shui Koshing in a slightly stern tone.

    This was the first time Raelle heard Shui Koshing speaking in this tone. Usually, he''d always listen to his son. But this time, he was clearly against it. He didn''t want to give in to his son.

    Although she didn''t know what they were talking about, she didn''t question it either.

    Shui Koshing''s face softened as he went on, "Going to see Second Uncle is my responsibility. You''re not obliged to go there. It''s better if you just stay here and keep my daughterpany."

    It took a while for Shui Xian topromise over this, "You promise me, you''ll let me know if something is wrong. Okay?"

    Shui Koshing gave him a reassuring smile and nodded his head.

    "Elle, I''m gonna miss you a lot," said Shui Koshing and raised his hand as if to touch her head. But he stopped himself before he could touch her. Raelle noticed this and moved over to ce her head underneath his hand. Shui Koshing was taken aback by her act and stiffened a little. Then she shed him a smile and he rxed.

    In fact, he rubbed her head gently and lovingly. Or more like in a spoiling manner.

    "Aiyoh! You''re making it difficult for me to leave. How am I gonna leave my sweet daughter? This is so difficult."

    Shui Xian was being amused seeing his father acting like this while his wife even went along with it. These two really... He had no words right now.

    "B¨¤, take care of yourself there," said Raelle. "And don''t forget to take someone with you. Someone has to be there to take care of your meals and to remind you to take your medicines on time. You can''t get sick there. That''s not allowed."

    "Okay," Shui Koshing listened attentively and even continued to nod. "I''ll listen to my daughter. Anything else?"

    "Well,e back soon," she didn''t forget to add. "I''ll wait for you."

    Shui Koshing was so touched that he kissed her head, "Why are you so adorable? Now, I really don''t want to leave."

    Shui Xian continued tough to himself as he watched these two acting like he wasn''t even there. But he had to say, this scene was really warm and touching.

    "It seems everyone is traveling these days," said Raelle.

    "Who else is traveling?" asked Shui Koshing.

    "Hyson is going to travel with his shooting crew. Yanyan is taking Yue somewhere and even you''re going now. Did you all n it together?"

    Shui Koshing chuckled at her, "How could that be? It seems quite suspicious but it''s really just a coincidence."

    Raelle nodded her head in understanding. "Did you pack your things?"

    "Yes, I''ve already packed everything needed. You don''t have to worry about it. And I''ll call you daily, so if this son of mine doesn''t take care of you, just let me know. I''ll pull his ear for you."

    "You won''t be able to do it from so far away," said Shui Xian.

    "I''ming back here, son," told Shui Koshing. "I''m not gonna stay there for long."

    Raelle found her phone and gave it to him, "I don''t have your number."

    "Oh my! You don''t have B¨¤''s number?" asked Shui Xian in an exaggerated tone.

    Raelle shook her head honestly, "I never needed it before. I''d see him in the morning and even met him first in the evening. So, I didn''t think I needed it. Besides, I never saw him using his phone so I thought he didn''t have one."

    "You''re not wrong," said Shui Koshing. "My phone stays with the steward. I don''t usually need it anyway." He took her phone and dialed the number. Then he passed it back to her.

    Raelle saved his number and held the phone up saying, "B¨¤, smile!"

    Shui Koshing instinctively smiled and Raelle clicked a photo. Then she set it up as his contact picture.

    "Wifey, you didn''t even set up my photo as the contact picture."

    "Jealous," muttered Shui Koshing. "You''re old enough now. Stop being jealous of your father. Besides, don''t you know? There is a difference between a father-daughter rtionship and a husband-wife rtionship."

    "I wasn''t being jealous," retorted Shui Xian.

    Raelle leaned back towards him and gave him the phone, "You can check what I have here."

    Shui Xian took the phone and when he saw the picture of their hands used as the contact picture for his number, he couldn''t help tilting his lips upward. It seems he really couldn''t win from his wife. So what she didn''t use his photo, this picture was more meaningful. After all, it was one of those rare pictures they clicked the day they got married.

    Shui Koshing watched them with a satisfied smile and stood up, "I think I should stop disturbing you both now." He stared at Shui Xian, "As I said, you better take care of her. I''ll keep a watch on you. I have spies everywhere."

    Shui Xian smiled at him, "B¨¤, how about opening a detective agency? It might suit you a lot."

    "You can stop teasing your father now," said Shui Koshing. "I''m leaving now. Both of you, don''t stay awake tillte. It''s good to go to sleep on time. And if possible, have your meals with Uncle Yi. Since Yanyan is also going somewhere, he''d be alone as well."

    "Yes, B¨¤." Shui Xian reassured his father. "You take care of yourself. We''ll manage everything here. I promise."

    [1] "TaiLeng": It''s an imaginary ce I named. However, Tai means ''extremely'' and Leng means ''cold''. So I guess you can get an idea what kind of a ce it is by that name.

 Chapter 187 - It Was So Sweet

    After Raelle was done with her nightly routine, she got under the nket with her eyes focused on Shui Xian. Well, this had been going on for a while now. Shui Xian could tell that she wanted to question him but she wasn''t doing so. She usually didn''t hold herself back like this so it was kind of amusing to see her struggling on her own.

    The reason why he was trying to pretend like he couldn''t see the questions in her eyes was simple. He knew once she asked those questions, it''d be like breaking the boundaries she had built for herself. And he really wished to see whether she''d be able to knock down those boundaries.

    By the time Shui Xian came to lie down on his side of the bed and turned off the lights, she still hadn''t opened her mouth to question anything. However, just as he pulled her towards himself and embraced her from behind, she finally parted her lips.

    "I have something to ask you."

    Shui Xian''s lips tilted upward, "Took you long enough." He rubbed his chin on her head and went on, "Tell me, what do you want to know?"

    "What''s wrong with Tai Leng?" She took a momentary pause, "I mean you looked quite displeased?"

    Shui Xian felt like heaving a sigh of relief. His wife was finally interested in knowing about him. Well, interested in learning about the things rted to him but it wasn''t much different.

    "Tai Leng is where our ancestral home is," he told her. "It''s where the Shui family has been residing for generations. In fact, the Shui family business is also in Tai Leng."

    "Why did you not want B¨¤ to go there?"

    "Do you want me to tell you in detail or just the basics?"

    Raelle thought about it seriously, "Since I''m Mrs. Shui Xian, I should know the details. It wouldn''t look good if the daughter-inw of the house knows nothing about the family affairs. I''m a detailed person. I''d like to know about the whole situation."

    Shui Xian was pleased to hear that. He also knew she didn''t do anything half-heartedly. And since she took this rtionship with him seriously, she took everything rted to him seriously as well.

    "Alright then. Let me tell you why I didn''t want B¨¤ to go there..."

    And then he really told her the circumstances of his family and rtives in detail. Tai Leng was his hometown. It wasn''t just the ce where he grew up, it was also the ce where most of his memories were. Good or bad, all his memories were associated with that ce and with the people in that ce.

    Shui Xian''s grandfather was from the main family and was also the eldest son of the family. So naturally, heter inherited the family head''s position. However, since he wasn''t as adept at business as his second brother, he decided to give up the family business to him.

    But this situation changed when it came to Shui Koshing who was not only a great businessman, but he was also a capable head of the family. It was a pity that Shui Xian never took interest in either the business or the Shui family.

    "You didn''t want to inherit anything?" asked Raelle.

    "I wanted to stay away from the schemes. I grew up seeing my father dealing with our rtives whether from the main family or the branch family. It was a mess. He used to be so busy that he barely had time for mom. I didn''t like that. I didn''t want to be like him."

    "It was because he worked so hard that you grew up in a safe environment," she couldn''t help saying. "If it wasn''t for him, you''d never be able to pursue your dream or be so carefree."

    Shui Xian looked at her in the darkness of the night, "Sadly, I understood it quitete. It was a little toote by the time I realized that the reason I was able to grow up in a happy home was that he was fighting with the world to keep us safe." Shui Xian felt bitter inside as he recalled it. "B¨¤ used to take me with him to his office and taught me everything he knew. I just never took interest and thatck of interest cost something huge to my father."

    It did cost Shui Koshing a lot. Because of Shui Xian''s carelessness, someone managed to sell the confidential documents to thepany. Because of that Shui family business reached the verge of bankruptcy. Shui Koshing was condemned by the family members who had been waiting in line like hyenas. Waiting for that one single mistake that they could use to topple Shui Koshing''s authority and sadly, because of his own son, they did found a mistake.

    And it was a grave mistake at that too.

    Shui Koshing had always been business-minded and that''s why he had actually made a lot of sessful personal investments. He used the profits from those investments to save the Shui family business from bankruptcy but it didn''t change much.

    Shui Xian''s divorce and how he gave his personal shares of the business to his wife in alimony led to another round of discussions.

    Shui Xian''s arm around her waist tightened subconsciously, "It was when everyone started pointing fingers at me that B¨¤ decided to leave Tai Leng and leave everything behind. I never understood my father''s love for me. Even when people called him a careless and ipetent leader, he didn''t say a word but when the same people just raised their fingers at his son, heshed out." It had been a long time since he hadn''t recalled any of this and now that he did, he was reminded of how he hurt his father.

    "He is a good father," said Raelle.

    "Yes, I know," agreed Shui Xian. "When we first came to this city, we were all alone. Just him and me. He had only lost his power but he was still the same Shui Koshing that people revered and felt scared of. It didn''t take him long to pat my shoulder and say, ''Son, how about I open a studio for you? Here, no one will criticize your choices.''" He suddenly chuckled as he recalled how he cried like a baby back then. That was the first time he realized he couldn''t forgive himself.

    He was his father''s criminal. His father left the ce he fell in love with his wife, the ce where he spent his childhood, his youth... He left the ce he was most familiar with toe to this unfamiliar city just to make his son feelfortable. He honestly didn''t know how was he gonna repay it.

    But that''s when he hade to a decision that he''d return his father''s glory back to him. He''d make people see that Shui Koshing never needed the name of the Shui family to seed in life. He was capable on his own.

    "That''s when I started taking my father''s teachings seriously and see... Today, Shui Conglomerate is at the top. It isn''t because I''m a good businessman, it''s because my father is a great businessman." He ran a hand through her hair, "Three years ago when everything settled, he stopped getting involved in the management of thepany. And now, he just acts like an old man."

    "He isn''t that old though," said Raelle.

    "I know, he isn''t. But have you seen what he does every day? The only time he goes out of the house is when he wants to take a walk around society. He doesn''t have that many friends here as well. It''s only now that Yanjun''s grandparents also moved here from Tai Leng. Otherwise, they''d also only get to see B¨¤ only once or twice in a year."

    Raelle was silent for a minute as she processed everything he said. After sorting out all the information she gathered, she asked, "So, the reason why you don''t B¨¤ to go back there is that you don''t want him to remember the bad memories?"

    "Not really," replied Shui Xian. "B¨¤ has more good memories of that ce than bad ones."

    "Then?"

    "After B¨¤ left the Shui family business, and even gave up his shares, thepany was managed by the sons of my Second Granduncle. However, in thest couple of years, the business is not doing so well. And now that they know B¨¤ has his own Shui Conglomerate, they want to take a bite of this huge pie. I''m just afraid that they''ll keep bothering him."

    "B¨¤ is a clear-headed person. He won''t fall for those tricks. There is a reason why he was chosen as the family head of a huge n and still managed to keep himself and his family safe."

    "You have quite some faith in my B¨¤," Shui Xian pointed out.

    "He isn''t yours alone any longer," retorted Raelle stunning Shui Xian.

    It took him a moment toe out of his daze. He smiled gently and kissed her head saying, "Yes, how can he be mine alone? You have more right on him. I''m just his old son who has lost his value after he found his new daughter."

    "You sound bitter." Raelle turned her head slightly to look at his face.

    "So, why don''t you offer me some sugar?" He wiggled his brows and while she blinked her eyes at her, he leaned over to kiss her lips. "Ah! It was so sweet!"

 Chapter 188 - Keep Asking

    "What are you both doing here at this time?"

    Shui Koshing was taken aback when he saw his soning down the stairs with Raelle. It was 2 in the morning and he was just about to leave for the airport to catch his flight.

    "We came to see you off," answered Shui Xian and looked at his wife helplessly.

    Needless to say, the one who woke him up at this time and even dragged him was obviously Raelle Xiang who felt the need to see Shui Koshing off.

    "I met you bothst night because I didn''t want to disturb you at this time," Shui Koshing didn''t know whether he felt happy seeing them or felt like wanting to reprimand them for doing this.

    Shui Xian patted his father''s shoulders, "Well it doesn''t matter now. We are already awake and we are also here. How about we drive you to the airport?"

    "No!" Shui Koshing instantly refused. "This topic is not up for discussion at all."

    "Fine," Shui Xian didn''t push his father since he could see he wasn''t going to agree. Instead, he took the suitcase from the servant and walked towards the door.

    "What are you doing? Don''t we have people to help with that?"

    "I can do this much for my father," replied Shui Xian not even bothering to turn to look at him.

    Raelle came to stand beside Shui Koshing and said, "B¨¤, let him do it."

    Before her, Shui Koshing could only shake his head in defeat. He also followed and walked out the door where Shui Xian had already put the suitcase in the car. Now, he was instructing the driver about something in a serious manner.

    "Son, why did you hire so many servants?"

    "For you."

    "Then let them do my work."

    Shui Xian put his hands in his trouser''s pockets. "They can do your work when I''m not around. And it was just a tiny suitcase. Why are you reacting like carried something huge?" He took a pause and added, "Besides, you should be d I''m not questioning why you''re taking amercial flight when we own our own jets." He nced at Raelle and went on, "Your daughter even owns a bloody airline!"

    Shui Koshing looked at Raelle with pride in his eyes, "My daughter sure is mighty and strong."

    "That she sure is," agreed Shui Xian. Then he took a step over and hugged his father, "Take care of yourself out there. There is no need to be filial to thankless rtives. And don''t even think about getting soft-hearted. Don''t forget that they are all looking for a chance to suck our blood dry!" Shui Koshing looked at Raelle and noticing the direction of his eyes, Shui Xian told him, "She knows. I told her everything."

    Shui Koshing nodded in understanding and promised to take care of himself before he got in the car. While Shui Xian gave instructions to the steward who was following his father back, Raelle leaned against the side of the car and said to Shui Koshing, "B¨¤, is Tai Leng a beautiful ce?"

    Shui Koshing looked at her side profile from the window and blinked while thinking about his hometown. "Beautiful. It''s really beautiful. There are mountains, a water creek, tall trees. There are also natural hot springs. It really is beautiful."

    "How far is it from Xinji?"

    Shui Koshing smiled at her question, "It''s not that far."

    Raelle nodded her head, "B¨¤, take care. Don''t feel sad there. Even if the ce changes or times changes or even if those people in your memories are no longer there, don''t forget that it won''t change the beauty of your memories."

    Shui Koshing didn''t know what to say to her in reply so he just nodded his head. As Shui Xian came to stand beside her with his arm around her shoulder, they both waved at him.

    Both of them only went inside the house when they could no longer see the car. As they were ascending the stairs, Shui Xian asked, "Isn''t Xinji where Xiang family''s ancestral home is?"

    "It is," she replied.

    "Xinji is really close to Tai Leng. I can''t believe we were so close to each other."

    "We weren''t," said Raelle. Shui Xian raised his brow at her inquisitively, "I''ve never been to Xinji in my life."

    "What?"

    "Opa and Yanyan went to Xinji twice every year. Once to sweep the ancestral graves and the second time when it''s my grandmother''s birthday. But they never took me with them. So, I have never seen what the Xiang family''s ancestral home looks like."

    Shui Xian fell into deep thought, "So, you''ve never even met your rtives?"

    "It seems you don''t know much about the Xiang family," said Raelle as she got on the bed. "You do know that Xiang family is a military family?"

    "That I know," answered Shui Xian. "In fact, who doesn''t know that? The contributions of the Xiang family had always been noteworthy."

    "Do you know why people only remember Xiang n in good words? And why the n is so reputable?" Raelle turned to look at him, "All of my ancestors died on the battlefield. Mostly, when they were young. Take Opa''s elder brother, for instance, he died only when he was twenty-three and he was supposed to get married in a week." Raelleid down on the bed and continued to tell him, "Opa is considered the only one in generations who managed to live past seventy and that''s only because he had to retire early."

    "You really have no rtives? Like none?" inquired Shui Xian in surprise. He just couldn''t believe it. "I mean there must be someone from the branch family?"

    "There is no one," answered Raelle. "As I said, all of them gave their lives for this country. Patriotic bloodline as they call it. I''m thest descendant of the n."

    Shui Xian had heard about the stories of the Xiang family from his grandfather when he was young but he never knew that there were really not many people left in the legendary n.

    "It seems the legacy of this military family ends with you," said Shui Xian. He even patted his chest saying, "And thank goodness you''re not in the army."

    "The legacy didn''t end," Raelle told him. "Opa''s son is still in the military."

    "You mean your fa..." Shui Xian abruptly stopped and didn''t dare to finish his sentence.

    However, with Raelle''s intelligence, could she really not tell what he was about to say? "Yes, I''m talking about my father."

    Shui Xian stared at her, "You don''t mind talking about him?"

    "I have his DNA and if that alone is enough to call him my father then yes, he is my father and I don''t mind talking about him. Why would I?"

    Shui Xian went silent for a while.

    "Oh, and I forgot to add, his son and daughter are also in the military. His son is in Air Force and his daughter is a part of the Special Ops. So, as I said, the legacy is still there."

    Shui Xian''s brain was thrown into turmoil once again when he heard that. She knew everything. She knew who her father was and she knew she had siblings. And that made him wonder why she still acted like she had no one? Or perhaps, she truly believed they had nothing to do with her.

    Raelle noticed how lost he looked, "Hubby, stop thinking and go to sleep."

    "After dropping that bomb, you expect me to go to sleep?"

    "What bomb did I throw at you?"

    "Your siblings are in the army! Air Force and Special Ops. Are you kidding me?!"

    "Didn''t I tell you before? In my life, you only have to care about the people I introduced you to. The rest doesn''t matter. The rest has no ce in my life. Even if we share the same blood, it has nothing to do with my life. It shouldn''t have anything to do with your life either."

    "I understand that. I just never thought you''d know the details about everything when you im that you don''t want to have to do anything with them."

    "I don''t like surprises." Shui Xian knew that. She had told him that very early on that she didn''t like surprises. And that''s why she didn''t fancy gifts as well. "And that''s why I have to be in control. I always want to be in control. If I don''t know the details, how will it work for me?"

    "Hmm... It''s actually good that you know everything in detail." He sighed inwardly as heid down. "Oh, by the way, did I tell you?"

    "What?"

    "I like it."

    "What do you like, Hubby?"

    "You telling me all of this."

    "Have I ever hid anything from you?" she questioned.

    "No. But you only tell when someone asks you. And oftentimes, I don''t have the right questions for the answers I''m looking for."

    "Then keep asking until you get the right answer." She nced at him, "I''ll keep answering no matter how many times you ask."

 Chapter 189 - Okay!

    Since the time Shui Xian learned about Raelle''s siblings'' professions, he had been in deep thought. It was in human nature to be curious. He was also itching to know more for some reason.

    He had jokingly said to her, "It seems your siblings are working hard to protect the country."

    And she had replied him with, "We are also working hard for the country. Just because our battlefields are different doesn''t mean we aren''t fighting. They are trying to protect the country, we''re working for its economy. How is it different?"

    Shui Xian had nothing to say. He already knew that his wife took pride in her work. Or at least he''d define it as pride. But he also knew that she respected her ancestors a lot. And that is why army officers were actually not so displeasing to her eyes.

    It was also this fact that she had interacted with Zhai Yanjun normally even though he had offended her.

    However, no matter how curious he was, Shui Xian knew how to be patient. Since he managed to get answers from her, he''d get into further details at ater time. For now, it was better to take everything one step at a time.

    Today happened to be the day, he was invited to the Shires Business Association.

    Shires Business Association members were all part of the elite businessmen in the city or even in the country. Every few months the association would invite them all to gather to discuss the newly opened government projects or share resources. It was a prestigious association. At every meeting, they''d announce a few government projects or the change in the policies and new market trends.

    All in all, it was a resourceful ce that could open the door of plenty of opportunities for people once that person was invited to be part of this association. With Master Xian''s prestige, he had to be here. There was no doubt about that from the beginning.

    Shui Xian had to greet several businessmen and their deputies before taking his seat at the conference table. He had only brought Ma Jin with him who had to sit in the seats in the back where other secretaries were waiting for their bosses.

    Since everyone hasn''t gathered yet, Shui Xian pulled out his phone. He had nothing on his mind but when he noticed what he was up to, he had already opened the chat screen that contained the record of his chat with his wife. Well, more like his one-sided chat since the other party didn''t like to reply through texts.

    Reading his one-sided chat history that felt like he was talking to himself, his lips curved up in an imperceptible smile.

    Meanwhile...

    "Chief, there is a new energy project that''s gonna be announced today," informed Cloe as she tried to keep up with Raelle''s long and steady strides. They weren''t that different in height but yet somehow, Raelle was always walking ahead of her, and while she always had to almost run to catch up. She couldn''t even understand this mythical phenomenon. "I''ve been keeping an eye on this project for a couple of months now. I think we should try our best to make sure this project is ours."

    "Best of luck!" was Raelle nk response which clearly indicated that she had thrown the ball in Cloe''s court.

    Whether they get the project or not was up to Cloe. She had nothing to do with it since she wasn''t keen on this project anyway. She already had something else in her mind, and that project had nothing to with this meeting today. If it wasn''t because Cloe insisted to her to make some connections, she would definitely have not bothered toe here.

    Although her business had a stronghold in G Country, they were still rtively new in the H country. There had been a couple ofpanies under Xiang Conglomerate''s banner that had been running in this country for years but that had nothing to do with Raelle since that was started by her grandfather. Even now, the management of thosepanies was in his hands. Although he didn''t look over it himself, he had capable men to take up this job.

    When Raelle entered the conference room, there fell a strange silence. Every person''s gaze was on this unfamiliar face. And those who had some idea in their minds didn''t dare to walk up to her to greet her. Raelle didn''t mind theirck of enthusiasm at seeing her.

    She calmly went ahead to look for her seat and only when she sat down at the chair which had a name board of ''President Raelle'' did people snapped out of it.

    There wasn''t a single person in this room who hadn''t heard about Raelle Xiang. If you''re a businessman, you have to know Raelle Xiang. But it didn''t necessarily mean that you''d get the chance to meet her or even catch a glimpse of her. After all, she was said to be an extremely private person. One couldn''t possibly find a single photo of her on the inte, all you''d find would be her achievements that might make one go blind.

    She was the youngest in this room of veteran yers and yet, she was known to be the most ruthless one. And currently, her position might be higher than 90% of the people in this conference room. The ones who could actually stand side by side with her authority were two people. One was Master Xian who was busy smiling at his phone screen and the other was currently out of the country.

    Raelle had just taken her seat when her eyes fell on the person sitting directly opposite her. And she paused. Although she knew her husband''s position in the business world, it still didn''t cross her mind that she''d be able to cross paths with him at this meeting.

    What do people call it?

    Ah! Surprise?

    Or was it fate?

    Raelle couldn''t tell the answer but she did want to know what was making her husband smile so foolishly? Others might have not noticed but she hade to understand every single thing about her husband''s expressions. It was hard to see but she could still make out the shadow of the smile that had been hanging on his lips.

    Suddenly, her phone ''dinged.'' Raelle looked at it, she had received a message from her husband that read, ''I was going through our chat history and suddenly started missing you.''

    Raelle lifted her eyes to look up and found him typing something again and soon her phone ''dinged'' yet again.

    ''Have you noticed though? I''m the only fool who texts you even when you don''t reply!''

    *Ding*

    ''Reading chat history I felt like I was talking to myself. At least, send me an okay to reassure me sometimes that I''m not talking to myself.''

    Raelle thought about it before typing, ''Okay.''

    And then she noticed when Shui Xian received that message from her, he sat straight up and stared at his phone for a full minute before rubbing his eyes in disbelief and staring at it again. When he made sure that he indeed received a text from his wife, he felt like he could do somersault right here! But he held himself back. He even had to hold back the urge tough out loud.

    But he really was feeling lost. It was the first time his wife actually texted him! How could he be not excited? It might not be a big deal to others but it was to him. The person in question was Raelle Xiang!

    She never even typed a reply for her best friend Hyson!

    And yet, today, she actually typed a message for him. It was only an ''okay'' but it was enough to make him feel like he won a jackpot. He didn''t even know where to put his hands now. That''s how lost he was feeling.

    Unbeknownst to him, Raelle had been watching every single change in him intently. She had learned to read her husband and it wasn''t difficult to tell that he was happy to receive that message. In fact, he looked so happy in her eyes that Raelle almost mentally reprimanded herself for waiting so long to send him a text. Wasn''t it just typing a couple of words? How troublesome could it get?

    Didn''t she write emails on aptop all the time? Texting wasn''t that different.

    She noted down in her mind that she had to send more texts to her husband. If her small act could bring him happiness then why not? It wasn''t harmful to either of them anyway.

    *Ding*

    ''Wifey, did your phone get stolen?''

    Raelle didn''t know why his brain thought of such a scenario. Was it that difficult to believe that she was the one texting?

    She typed, ''Look up. You''ll know the answer.''

    Shui Xian frowned slightly when he read that message and on instinct looked up. And then, he couldn''t move his eyes away.

 Chapter 190 - Hit It Off

    Shui Xian didn''t know what happened at that moment as his brain went nk. His line of vision could only see his beautiful wife sitting opposite him and she even slightly waved her phone clearly indicating that she was the one who had her phone. And she was indeed the one who texted him. Understanding that point, something stirred in his heart.

    He really couldn''t bring himself to look away, who would be able to look away in this situation? He never thought he would run into his wife here. It was such a pleasant surprise that even his reaction was a little dyed. However, thinking about how he was missing her just now and now she sat before him, he felt like this was really meant to be.

    Only when the meetingmenced did Cloee to sit beside Raelle. All this while, she was instructing her assistants about several details they had to pay attention to. And that''s why she didn''t get to see when Raelle had texted Shui Xian. If she did, she might have dropped on the floor in shock.

    But now that she didn''t see it, she could sit beside Raelle as if nothing happened out of the ordinary. But as soon as she sat, she started surveying the people around them. When her eyes fell on Shui Xian who seemed to still be looking in this direction, her eyes widened.

    Leaning over to Raelle, she whispered, "Chief, the handsome Master Xian is also here." A dreamy sigh escaped her lips, "He looks even better in person."

    "You''re losing yourposure over a man," said Raelle. "Again!"

    Cloe was displeased to hear that, "Chief, this is different."

    "How is it different?"

    Cloe looked around before whisper screaming in her ear, "Because he is Master Xian! You can''t even understand my excitement right now. Forget it! It''s useless to tell you anything." She took a pause, "I know you don''t like to hear me praising others so I won''t do it."

    "Oh, please, continue! I''m all ears."

    Cloe almost choked when she heard that. This was the first time Raelle was willing to hear her praising someone before her. Did the sun rose from the west or something?

    However, Cloe was so horrified by this sudden change that she couldn''t find her voice. So, she decided to shut up and pay attention to why they were here.

    As she had told Raelle earlier, several new policies were discussed at this meeting. And several new projects were also introduced.

    But during this whole meeting, Raelle''s eyes hardly left her husband''s face. Shui Xian was trying to pay attention to the discussion around him but it was proving to be a difficult task when he could feel her eyes on his face.

    There was no change in her expressions than howe he felt like it was such an intense stare that he was being scorched?

    The meeting continued for over 2 hours. After the meeting, the association had organized a dinner for everyone as per their tradition. Shui Xian had nned to leave before the dinner since he wanted to get to his wife but now that his wife was here, he was in no hurry.

    He followed others to a banquet hall of the hotel where the dinner was arranged for everyone. Taking this chance, several businessmen gathered together to discuss the meeting details. Shui Xian was naturally pulled into this and he couldn''t go over to find his wife.

    But there was another reason why he wasn''t going over to Raelle. He wasn''t sure how to act with her before these people. After all, Raelle didn''t want to disclose the news of their marriage yet. So, it made it difficult for him to find a way to her.

    Cloe was busy introducing Raelle to all the people here with a polite smile on her face. Oddly enough, Raelle actually said a few kind words to these people out of politeness as well. Finally, she dragged Raelle to Shui Xian saying, "This is my only cha- cough! I mean this is our only chance to meet Master Xian. Let''s go over and say hello to him."

    Raelle already knew that Cloe was a face-con but she didn''t expect that she''d go crazy seeing her husband. But she couldn''t be med either. Her husband was certainly handsome.

    Cloe even took this chance to tell Raelle, "I think you''ll like him. He is certainly a lot like you. All his life is about work, work, and some more work. Also, he doesn''t like to smile that''s why he was given the title of the Ice Master. That''s why I think you both will hit it off!"

    Cloe only stopped when she reached Shui Xian and smiled at him, "Hello, Mr. Shui! I''m Cloe Jones and with me here is President Raelle Xiang. It''s nice to have made your acquaintance."

    Shui Xian looked at Cloe, about whom he had heard a lot from his wife. It was only now he was able to see this woman. He greeted her in a well-mannered way. But when his eyes fell on Raelle, there was an obvious ripple in his eyes. He extended his hand towards her, "President Raelle, I have heard a lot about you."

    Cloe''s face stiffened when she saw how he held up his hand for Raelle. Were there still people who didn''t know that President Raelle didn''t like physical touch? She didn''t want to upset Shui Xian but she couldn''t convince her boss to shake his hand either. What was she to do now?!

    This was her first time meeting Master Xian in person and it might be thest one after Raelle Xiang offend him before so many people. Why was her boss so difficult to deal with?

    While Cloe wasmenting and cursing her luck inwardly, Raelle held up her hand to shake his as she said, "I have heard quite some praise about you from Cloe as well, Mr. Shui Xian. Or should I call you Master Xian like others?"

    It was a real effort on Shui Xian''s part to keep his face straight right now. Since his wife liked to see his smile, he had gotten used to smiling around her. And now that she stood before him with her hand in his own, how could he stop his lips from quirking up? That was too much to ask of him!

    As his lips quirked up on instinct, Cloe was dumbfounded. Okay, she was baffled already when Raelle actually took his hand in her own. And now, she was close to losing her mind when the well-known ''Ice Master'' actually smiled at her boss.

    And since she was so lost in her daze, she didn''t even notice that Shui Xian hadn''t left Raelle''s hand even now. In fact, they both hadn''t let go after shaking hands. Instead, Shui Xian tugged at her hand to pull her closer and leaned over to whisper, "You can call me anything you like. But I certainly would love it if you called me yours."

    "Good thing, I already call you mine," was Raelle''s response that made Shui Xian''s brows raise up slightly before his smile widened.

    Cloe rubbed her forehead in confusion before she knocked on her head, "Something is wrong today. I''m hallucinating. I need a drink. Stronger the better!" With that, she excused herself and stepped aside in search of a drink. She really needed one right now.

    Raelle had been giving her so many surprises that now, she was not sure about what was real or what was just her mind ying tricks on her.

    Meanwhile, Shui Xian looked at Raelle''s hand reluctantly, "I don''t want to leave this hand."

    "Who asked you to let it go?"

    Shui Xian''s spirit lifted up, "I can show off my wife here?"

    "No," replied Raelle. "And don''t ask why, you already know the reason."

    Shui Xian''s thumb pad kept rubbing the back of her hand before he let her hand go with a deep breath, "Don''t wander around here. People like to make deals over drinks here."

    "Are you scared that I''ll get drunk?" she questioned.

    "Actually, I do want to see you drunk but that''s only when we are alone. Because I wish to see my wife drunk, not President Raelle."

    "Oh..."

    "Why didn''t you tell me you''d be here?"

    "I didn''t know either," replied Raelle. "It was Cloe''s idea to bring me here when she received the invitation. She said it''s better to make connections here since we are new here."

    "You don''t need to make any connection," said Shui Xian. "Aren''t I here? I can be your biggest and strongest connection. Besides, I don''t even think my wife needs such connections. I believe in her strong abilities."

    "But I certainly think it was the right decision toe here."

    "Huh?"

    "I got to meet Master Xian, after all."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips not knowing what to say to that. He certainly couldn''t disagree with her since he loved seeing her here.

 Chapter 191 - Stolen It?

    It was a well-known fact that although Master Xian appeared to be a polite and friendly person, he was definitely not one. He rarely took the initiative to talk to others unless it was absolutely necessary to do so. As for Raelle Xiang, there were so many rumors surrounding this person.

    And one of those rumors that seemed to be the ultimate truth was, President Raelle would never try to please anyone for her gains. Even if she lost a million-dor deal, she wouldn''t budge over her principles. If you want to work with her, you need to have the ability to do so. ttery would never work.

    But currently, these two people who liked to stay in their own world were actually interacting with each other so intimately. It was shocking, to say the least. At least for people who were familiar with Shui Xian and knew that he never liked the presence of a woman around him. The only woman around him in years had been the Vice President of hispany.

    Wasn''t that why people started specting that there was something going on between Ruan Meilin and Shui Xian? But what was the situation now?

    Master Xian was stuck to President Raelle and even took the initiative to talk to her. And what''s up with that smile on his face? Master Xian never even smiled for the sake of politeness and now he was smiling from the heart. That gentleness in his eyes was even more shocking.

    Everyone who was familiar with each other in this meeting actually shared a knowing nce. It seemed like they had been on the wrong track. Master Xian seemed to be interested in President Raelle and even an idiot could see that. And the fact that Raelle was willing to talk to him proved that she was somewhat interested as well.

    But all of that had nothing to do with the two people involved. Even if Shui Xian could hear the whispers, he didn''t care at all. Why would he? He wanted everyone to open their eyes and see clearly how he looked like when he liked someone! So that the next time these people wouldn''t dare to associate his name with any other woman.

    Shui Xian ced the food before Raelle and said, "People are talking about us."

    "So?"

    Shui Xian sat down beside her and smiled, "So, nothing. I just like it."

    "What? That people are talking about us?" Raelle thought this was an odd reason to be happy about it.

    "Not really. I''m happy to hear them taking your name with mine. It''s a good feeling," replied Shui Xian. His eyes fell on the other side of the table and he added, "You should keep an eye on your employee. She''s receiving a lot of toasts. She might get knocked out."

    "You don''t have to worry about her," said Raelle. "If Cloe dares to drink, it''s because she can. Never underestimate the drinking ability of a woman who has gone through a heartbreak." Shui Xian raised his brows at her. "That''s what she said to me once. Apparently, drinking helped her in coping and since then she has be best friends with alcohol."

    Shui Xian''s eyes lowered slightly.

    "Do you agree with it, Master Xian?" Shui Xian looked up at her, "Is alcohol really a good friend for broken hearts?"

    "Why are you asking me this question, President Raelle?"

    "Oh, it''s because you have experience... In the broken hearts department."

    Shui Xian bit his bottom lip as he continued to stare at her face, "Does it feel good?"

    "What?"

    "Attacking me."

    "Was I attacking you?" Raelle questioned innocently.

    "It seemed like it," answered Shui Xian.

    "Sorry!"

    Shui Xian held her hand under the table and squeezed it, "It''s okay. If you won''t attack me who would? In fact, if you don''t talk like it, would you still be Raelle Xiang?" He patted her hand as he went on, "Let me tell you honestly, she isn''t wrong. Alcohol really is a best friend for broken hearts. At least, it numbs the pain for a little while."

    Raelle nodded in understanding.

    Someone came to sit beside Shui Xian and started talking to him. Raelle didn''t pay attention to them and continued to focus on the food before. However, she didn''t eat much. Just a few bites and she was done already. She ced the chopsticks down and turned her head towards the woman who came to sit on her other side and had been staring at her face for a good while now.

    Raelle nced at her and the woman smiled back at her, "Hi, I''m Chichi. Let me introduce myself properly."

    "There is no need for that," interrupted Raelle. "I know who you are, Director Sun."

    The older woman''s face visibly brightened up, "Oh my, President Raelle lives up to her reputation. You really know your stuff."

    "I don''t do things I''m not certain about," replied Raelle nkly.

    Even though she didn''t look very enthusiastic, the older woman was still pleased for some reason. "It''s actually a surprise seeing you here."

    "You definitely wanted me toe," said Raelle matter-of-factly. "Isn''t that why Director Sun sent me the invitation?"

    Director Sun Chichi''s face had a satisfied and admiring look, "It''s always a pleasure to make acquaintance with smart people. It''s really a pleasure meeting, President Raelle."

    "If you''re expecting me to say likewise, you might be disappointed."

    Director Sun shook her head and took this chance to discuss some business matters with Raelle. She was one of the executives of the Shires Business Association. And definitely wouldn''t miss a chance to associate with people like Raelle Xiang.

    "Why don''t you eat something else? Is the food not to your liking? I definitely arranged the best chefs for today''s dinner."

    Raelle looked at the untouched food before her. Shui Xian naturally ced a hand behind Raelle''s chair and told Director Sun, "President Raelle doesn''t like to eat with so many people around."

    Director Sun''s brows jumped up, "Oh... That''s my bad. Should I arrange for a private room for you? I certainly wouldn''t want you to leave without eating anything."

    "We wouldn''t want to bother Director Sun now," replied Shui Xian.

    Director Sun rubbed her chin as she looked at theck of distance between Shui Xian and Raelle. "Master Xian, you seem to know President Raelle''s likes and dislikes. It''s quite suspicious."

    "Suspicious?" repeated Shui Xian in surprise. "How is it still only suspicious? Am I not making it clear that I''m pursuing her?" Raelle turned her head to look at his face that hade right beside hers. "Am I wrong, President Raelle?"

    Director Sun covered her mouth as she gasped, "This has to be the gossip of the year." She took a pause before adding, "But I like it. Earlier when people were talking about you both, I felt like Master Xian''s name with President Raelle seemed odd. But now that I have seen you both together, I feel like this picture is quite natural. It certainly looks beautiful." She pointed at both of them, "Two exceptional people definitely make the best couple."

    Shui Xian nced at Raelle and agreed, "Indeed. I also think we look best together."

    Director Sun cleared her throat, "Master Xian, aren''t you getting ahead of yourself? You''re still in the chasing phase."

    "Director Sun, the fun is in this chase," replied Shui Xian in a cheeky manner that the older woman found quite refreshing. After all, she always thought Shui Xian acted way older than his age. Always keep a straight face and cold aura. It really didn''t match with his age at all. He was barely reaching his thirties but acted like he was in his forties or something.

    Director Sun stood up saying, "Then I should give you some privacy before you start cursing me for being the lightbulb here." She looked at Raelle and smiled pleasantly, "Let''s meet again. I really enjoyed talking to you." As she passed by Shui Xian, she patted his shoulder, "Best of luck in this chase, Master Xian. Hope you seed!"

    As she walked some distance and looked at them talking to each other, her smile deepened with some hidden meaning. She definitely thought they made a good match. How strange!

    After she left, Shui Xian said to Raelle, "It seems you were right. Your employee just got everyone drunk while she is still standing. She is definitely the victor of tonight''s drinking game. How amusing it is to see men losing to women. Refreshing!"

    "You''re enjoying it?"

    "Very much!" replied Shui Xian. "But why she is so active?"

    "She has her eyes on the energy project no 2," told Raelle as if it was no big deal. She didn''t even think that currently, they could be each other''spetitors.

    "Energy Project no 2?" questioned Shui Xian. "Since you said, she has her eyes on it. That means you don''t?"

    "It seems Master Xian has learned to focus on the real meaning of my words now. I indeed have no interest in it."

    Shui Xian heaved a sigh of relief, "Then you wouldn''t mind if I have already stolen it right?"

 Chapter 192 - What Isnâ€™t Yours

    "If you have already stolen it, what''s the point of asking me that question now?"

    Shui Xian scratched the chin, "Well, I can give it up if you want me to."

    Raelle held his gaze, "Do you think that will make me happy?"

    He shook his head honestly, "I''m certain you won''t like me doing that."

    "Then don''t bother," said Raelle. She suddenly recalled something, "And what did you just say earlier? You''re pursuing me? When did that happen?"

    "The other day didn''t ask for your permission?" retorted Shui Xian. "I''ve started pursuing you since then."

    "Don''t people pursue each other to reach the point of dating? But we are already married."

    "And who made the rule that we can''t date after marriage? I can definitely pursue my wife. In fact, I can do it rightfully!" announced Shui Xian in a firm tone. "Besides, are you forgetting? Our rtionship already took the wrong order. So, what''s the harm if we fill in the steps we missed out on before getting married?"

    "Just do whatever you want," said Raelle.

    "I certainly n on doing that," he replied.

    Meanwhile, Cloe had really made everyone drunk around her. Her alcohol capability beat down these old foxes. And these men thought she was an easy target! Did they not know that she was Raelle Xiang''s assistant? She even had to take shots during lunch breaks to deal with her boss!

    This little wine couldn''t possibly be stronger than vodka.

    However, she was not feeling happy about this victory. After all, she lost what she came here for. What was the point of going to so much trouble when in the end, she was bound to lose? She really felt bitter about it inside.

    She came to Raelle and slumped down on a chair grumbling, "I can''t stand these gatherings."

    Raelle sipped on the ss of lemon water, "Then you can sit down."

    Cloe stared at her boss, "Chief, I''m not trying to be funny here."

    "I can certainly tell," replied Raelle.

    "I really mean it! I can''t stand you either!"

    "I don''t mind you kneeling."

    Cloe choked on her words when she heard that. "Chief, I''m willing to kneel before you. Just stop giving me surprises. I am not even able to digest anymore."

    "What surprises did I give you?" questioned Raelle.

    "Isn''t it obvious?" retorted Cloe in a slightly raised voice. "An anti-social person like you had been socializing today. You hate physical touch from strangers and yet you willing shook Master Xian''s hand. Earlier I heard people say you''re not that difficult to talk to, I almost died on the spot."

    "You seem quite alive and healthy to me."

    "I said almost died!" eximed Cloe but in a way that only these two could hear it. She shook her head, "Before you give me any more surprises, let''s leave."

    Raelle had nothing to say to that since she also thought it''s been too long. She had spent more time at this ce than it was necessary. Now, she really wanted to go home. She raised her hand and held Shui Xian''s arm causing a stir in the crowd when she told him, "Mr. Shui, I''d be leaving now."

    She had just stepped out of the hall when her phone rang and she looked at the message from Shui Xian, ''Mrs. Shui, how can you leave without me?''

    Raelle turned off the screen and didn''t respond. She just pushed Cloe inside the car and asked the driver to start driving.

    Cloe held her forehead, "Can you drop me off at a bar along the way?"

    "Aren''t you done?" asked Raelle. "How much did you drink already?"

    "Chief," called out Cloe and turned her head to face Raelle. "I did all that drinking to achieve a purpose but I failed. Someone already snagged the project before me. So, now I''m gonna drink because of the loss I faced."

    "As they say, a drunkard can find excuses to keep drinking," said Raelle in a small voice. "You certainly gave me the live example."

    They hadn''t even driven out for five minutes when their car suddenly stopped. The driver tried to start the car but it didn''t work. He alighted to check the condition. Cloe also came down from the car to get some fresh air. She checked up on the driver and came to inform Raelle, "It seems the car is out of order. It can''t be fixed here."

    Raelle had rolled down the window as she tapped her fingers on the door, "Oh."

    "I think I should call for another car for you," said Cloe and tried to find her phone in her handbag.

    All of a sudden, a car horn startled her. She looked up and when Shui Xian rolled down his car window, Cloe was left gaping at him. However, Shui Xian only gave her a nod and turned to look at his wife. "It seems President Raelle needs some help."

    "And you''re gonna help, Master Xian?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian hurriedly came down the car and opened her car door for her, and even offered her a hand saying, "I''d be an idiot if I left a gorgeousdy to fend for herself in this dark night. So, please... Come with me, I''ll take you home."

    He chose his words really wisely. He was indeed gonna take her home and not drop her off at home. After all, he was going to the same home with her.

    Raelle didn''t bother hesitating as she held his hand and got off, she instructed the driver to take care of the car before sitting down in Shui Xian''s car. Cloe was still zoning out when Raelle called out to her, "Get in already."

    Cloe jolted awake. It just so happens that tonight Ma Jin was the one driving Shui Xian''s car. And that''s why Shui Xian and Raelle were sitting in the backseat which left Cloe with the option to sit in the passenger seat. And when she did get inside, she looked at Ma Jin to say hello and found the same level of shock as she was going through right now.

    After all, it was Ma Jin''s first time seeing his Master Xian being so polite towards the fairer sex. And when did Master Xian be so helpful? Wasn''t it the first time these two were meeting? Then what was up with this familiar and natural air around them?

    Cloe looked at the road ahead which looked bleak right now for some reason.

    "Miss Cloe, do you need some water?" asked Shui Xian. "It seems you drank a lot earlier."

    Before Cloe could open her mouth to reply, Raelle said, "It''s alright. It was just a warm-up for her. She is just about to head to the bar to start the real fun."

    ''Why are you exposing me like this?'' wondered Cloe to herself but didn''t say it out loud.

    Shui Xianced his fingers with Raelle''s and even ced their connected hands on his thigh as he tried to make small talk with Cloe, "I think I should apologize to you. I heard you were really interested in the energy project in the northern lines."

    "Well, I couldn''t snatch a project from Master Xian that just proves that I have yet to learn a lot," said Cloe. But it seemed like she wasmenting to herself along with willing herself to work harder.

    Shui Xian leaned over to Raelle''s side and whispered in her ear, "She isn''t drunk even after all that alcohol?"

    "She is sober for now," answered Raelle. "Her reaction speed is dyed. She''ll feel drunk hours after drinking."

    "Interesting..." muttered Shui Xian to himself. He really found it interesting actually. He and Yanjun went out to drink a lot of times together. But he was still impressed by Cloe''s drinking skills.

    Cloe had long dropped the idea of hitting the bar tonight. She gave the directions of her home since everyone else had decided to drop her off first. She couldn''t help looking at the back seat through the rearview mirror. But it was dark and she couldn''t see everything clearly. However, she could see that both Raelle and Shui Xian seemed to be looking out the window.

    But what she couldn''t see was their hands that seemed to have glued together in the veil of darkness. However, she was trying to analyze what happened today and found Raelle''s behavior strange.

    She had spent years with Raelle and only one man could make her boss act like this. As a light shed through her mind, her eyes widened as she looked at Shui Xian''s face through the mirror intently.

    ''Master Xian? Cheif''s husband? No, no! That can''t be possible. How can that happen? But how else would I exin the fact that Raelle Xiang actually epted a life from a stranger?!''

    While she was howling in her mind with conflicted thoughts, Raelle''s voice rang in the silent car, "Don''t look at what isn''t yours."

    Just that one sentence confirmed Cloe''s thoughts and she instantly lowered her eyes. Even if someone gave her tiger lungs, she still would refuse to look twice at Shui Xian from now on.

 Chapter 193 - Queen Of Master Xianâ€™s Life

    While Raelle''s words might have crashed Cloe''s brain system, it certainly made a wide grin to make its way to Shui Xian''s face. And when Ma Jin''s eyes suddenly fell on that smiling face, his eyes went round, and instinctively he stepped hard on the brakes.

    *Screech!*

    The sudden brakes made everyone inside jolt a little. Shui Xian''s hand went up to protect Raelle''s head but it wasn''t even necessary. When Raelle noticed his palm right before her eyes, she tilted her head to look at his worried face.

    "Ma Jin!" Shui Xian''s voice was low and it felt like he was suppressing some strong emotions.

    Ma Jin was taken aback by that tone of his voice. Master Xian always spoke in a monotonous tone. And even then one could feel the pressure. But now that his emotions were leaking out through his voice, one could imagine the cold sweat that drenched Ma Jin''s back.

    "I''m sorry, Master Xian! It was my fault! I''m extremely sorry!"

    Shui Xian had opened his mouth to say something when he felt something on his hand. He turned his eyes and paused. When he raised his hand to protect Raelle''s head, there was still some distance between his hand and her forehead but currently, Raelle had intentionally leaned her head over and ced her forehead against his hand. And that move alone was enough to make Master Xian forget where he was or what he was about to do.

    "Forget it!" he threw out these words at Ma Jin and didn''t want to pursue this matter any longer.

    It''d only waste his time. The same time that he could spend with his precious wife. So why would he waste his wife''s time on other people?

    Because of this small incident, Cloe''s brain system came online again and she looked around. "Oh, this is where I get off." Saying that she hurriedly alighted down from the car.

    As she walked away, Ma Jin''s eyes fell on something and he said, "Master Xian, Miss Cloe forgot her purse." Shui Xian also looked at the purse that was still in the car.

    "She is finally drunk," said Raelle.

    It had been over an hour since Cloe drank so the alcohol was finally kicking in herte processing internal system. It''s just as Raelle said, her reactions were always dyed. And tonight was no different. Or it could be said that tonight''s shocks might have stimted the alcohol effect.

    "Should I bring it to her?" asked Ma Jin cautiously.

    "Give it to me," said Shui Xian. "I''ll send it to her myself."

    He didn''t take that decision on impulse, it was because his dear wife had taken out a water bottle from the mini-fridge and ced it in his hand. She said nothing but he could tell what she wanted.

    He took the purse and the water bottle as he followed Cloe. Behind him, Ma Jin was left gaping at his boss in disbelief. First, his boss was being friendly to President Raelle. And now he was caring for President Raelle''s assistant? Just who was his Master Xian interested in? Whether it was President Raelle or Miss Cloe? This seemed to be the biggest question on Ma Jin''s mind this evening.

    As Shui Xian approached Cloe from behind, he was about to call out to her when he heard her saying, "Fuck! Fuck! Fuck! I have such a limited curse vocabry that I can''t even use another curse word! But man, FUCK! Raelle Xiang and Master Xian? Am I too drunk? The world is going round and round and round. My expressionless queen is actually Ice Master''s wife? What is wrong with this world?"

    *Cough!*

    Shui Xian intentionally coughed behind her and Cloe was startled to the point that she lost her footing. Just when she closed her eyes and waited for the impact, it didn''te. Instead, she was held by a pair of arms. Cloe opened her eyes and seeing that Shui Xian held her, her soul almost flew away, "You! Let go!"

    "You''ll fall," said Shui Xian like it wasn''t obvious enough.

    "That''d be better than falling in hands of Raelle Xiang."

    Shui Xian pulled her up and let her go with a gentlemanly smile on his face, "My wife isn''t that unreasonable."

    Cloe almost lost herself in that smile. No wonder she said he was her idol. Ice Master looked even better with a smile and that too up close! She hates to admit it but no one could match this handsome man better than her gorgeous boss. Their good looksplemented each other perfectly.

    She sneered, "Are you sure we are talking about the same person? The Raelle Xiang I know of isn''t unreasonable but she is still unreasonable in her own way. Her reasonable logic is enough to make her sound unreasonable. And I seem to say gibberish now that doesn''t make sense at all. This is no not how I wanted to meet Ice Master Xian. Oh my gosh! I can''t stop myself now. This drunk mouth is chattering away as always."

    She said so much in one breath that even Shui Xian was afraid that she might stop breathing. She took a long breath while Shui Xian made her sit down at the side. He even opened the bottle of water and offered it to her, "Here, drink some water and catch your breath. Also, you forgot your purse."

    Cloe took both things from his hand with an embarrassed smile, she was about to open her mouth with a silly smile when she pped her own mouth shut. She didn''t trust her mouth right now. It was gonna get her in trouble if she didn''t stop talking right now.

    Shui Xian noticed her action and his smile deepened, "By the way, I forgot to say." Cloe looked up at him as he continued, "You aren''t that drunk yet. That expressionless queen is indeed also the queen of this Ice Master''s home and life."

    Cloe gasped at his words as she stared at him without even blinking.

    "Also, the world is already round. Otherwise, how could after going in circles, our fates still ended up being intertwined? So, it isn''t just a twist of fate that she is my wife, it is also a beautiful destiny of ours." He took a pause to add, "I have heard a lot about you and it certainly was quite an experience meeting you in person. I''m d she has someone like you around her. And thank you for taking care of my wife. Now, I should be taking my leave."

    Cloe raised her hand and waved at his back with her mind reeling from his words. Even when he got inside his car, Cloe could still recall his words. Especially...

    ''That expressionless queen is indeed also the queen of this Ice Master''s home and life.''

    ''Queen of Ice Master Xian''s home.''

    ''Queen of Master Xian''s life.''

    As those words echoed in her mind, Cloe''s mind heated up along with her face that flushed deeply. She hurriedly gulped down the whole botter of cold water to get her feverish mind to work again.

    Her heart felt so happy just knowing that Raelle actually had such a ce in Xian''s life. She couldn''t describe what it felt like. But she was certain she felt touched. Her heart warmed up at the thought that Raelle had found such a life partner. It almost made her feel like crying as if she just saw her own little sister growing up and finding her happiness. It felt too good to describe in words.

    At this moment, just a small distance away from her, someone was looking in her direction with aplicated gaze. He had seen the interaction between Shui Xian and Cloe clearly even though he could hear anything, the interaction was quite eye-catching.

    Shui Xian not only held Cloe in his arms, but he also talked so nicely with her. And when Shui Xian was talking about his wife, his eyes had naturally shown the infatuated look that could be seen by even a blind person. But from the third person''s perspective, all of this could be misunderstood greatly.

    Especially since Cloe''s face flushed when he left. This was such a startling scene for the man that he was left standing frozen at his ce.

    "Kun, why didn''t you juste inside?"

    Only when someone ced a hand on his shoulder did hee back to the world and turned his head to look at his elder sister.

    "Jiejie[1], I just saw Xian," replied Cui Xukun.

    "Here?" His elder sister''s brows raised up as she looked around. "Why would hee here?"

    Cui Xukun looked at Cloe intently, "I also want to know what was he doing here."

    When he met Shui Xianst time, he honestly didn''t believe his old friend''s words that he had a woman in his life but now... Now, he was a little uncertain.

    [1] ''Jiejie'': In case you don''t know, Jiejie means elder sister. But it doesn''t necessarily mean blood-rted sister.

 Chapter 194 - For The Same Girl?

    In the distance, Cloe had finally managed toe back to her senses a little. She opened the straps of her heels and took them off. Right in front of her apartment building, there was a beautiful fountain. She looked at it spraying out water leisurely in a daze. It was as if she had no n of going back upstairs.

    Although it was early spring, the weather was still really cold at night. And yet, she had ced her bare feet onto the cold floor without any hesitation. As the cold breeze hit her face, she didn''t know whether she was getting sober or drunk.

    Cui Xukun was still gazing in her direction when his sister snapped her fingers before his eyes. As he came back to his senses, he looked at her in confusion.

    "Everything alright with you, Kun? It''s not good to stare."

    Cui Xukun also knew he was being rude by staring at a woman for so long. He just passed a shopping bag to his elder sister saying, "Your kids left this at my ce."

    "You''re such a good uncle," said his elder sister but he didn''t really buy her perfunctorypliment. She would only say it whenever he did something ording to her wishes. "Since you''re already here. Why don''t you juste upstairs? Kids are already asleep. I''ll make you somete-night snack?"

    "No, I have a court hearing in the morning. So, I have to prepare some documents for that," Cui Xukun refused even though he knew he might be hurting his sister''s feelings but he really couldn''t indulge in her wishes any longer. He patted her head, "Jiejie, if you''re feeling so lonely, just make up with your husband. What is this cold war gonna get you?"

    His sister''s expression instantly changed as she stared at him hard, "I invited you inside, didn''t ask for your consultation. I know you love consulting your clients but don''t try that on me."

    "Fine," Cui Xukun didn''t bother continuing this topic. He could see how much she wanted to avoid it. "Then go back inside now. It''s not good to leave your kids alone for too long."

    His elder pursed her lips and nodded, "You take care of yourself."

    Cui Xukun smiled at her reassuringly and then stood there to watch her enter the building. His eyes didn''t move even after he could no longer see her back. He finally sighed heavily and turned to leave. But just as he turned, he bumped into someone.

    "Fuck! Broke my nose!" he heard a small voice and looked down at the person who had crashed into him.

    With a hand over her nose, Cloe turned her head up and red at him.

    "I''m really sorry for that!" said Cui Xukun when he noticed her expressions. Although technically he wasn''t at fault, he still apologized without any hesitation.

    Strangely, with that one simple apology, the intensity of Cloe''s re diminished. In fact, with the mist of water that shielded her orbs, she looked quite like an adorable puppy.

    She waved her hand and ducked down to avoid the attack. Actually, it wasn''t an attack. It just so happened that Cloe had forgotten that she was holding her purse and her heels in her other hand. The same one that she waved at him before saying, "Forget it. It isn''t your fault. It''s just a reminder that I should stop drinking."

    After that, she didn''t bother sticking around and left him staring at her back in amusement. He really thought she was gonna hit him. And just those heels might have broken his nose.

    His eyes lingered on her for a moment and suddenly his expression changed, "You''re still as interesting as before. But why did you have to be with Xian?" He raked his hand through his hair in exasperation as he muttered to himself, "My luck couldn''t be this bad! How can I fall for the same girl again?!"

    It was needless to say that Cui Xukun had misunderstood the earlier situation and even though that Cloe was Xian''s woman. Poor guy! If Cloe had heard it, she would have definitely attacked him with her heels.

    Forget about her interests. But who would dare covet Raelle Xiang''s husband? She valued her life very much!

    ....

    On the other side, earlier when Shui Xian had gone to deliver the purse to Cloe, Raelle was left alone in the car with Ma Jin. And for the first time, Ma Jin felt d to have Shui Xian as his boss instead of Raelle.

    After all, in just a few minutes, the cold temperature in the car had dropped so low that he was feeling suffocated. Raelle had said nothing, not even a word, and yet, he felt like he was under pressure. It was such a strange feeling that he couldn''t even describe it in words.

    "How may I address you?" Raelle was the one who broke the silence and it caught Ma Jin off guard.

    He held his handkerchief and wiped the cold sweat that had formed on his forehead as he replied, "My name is Ma Jin. President Raelle can just call me Jin."

    "How long have you been with Master Xian?" she inquired.

    "I''ve known him since we were kids," replied Ma Jin honestly. "My father used to work for Elder Master Shui. And that is why Elder Master Shui sponsored my studies and sent me abroad. It was only after I learned that Master Xian was starting out his own business that I decided toe back to help him."

    "To repay that kindness?"

    Ma Jin shook his head, "Not really. I just wanted to do something for him."

    "Interesting," she said with her gaze stuck on a tree at the side of the road. "Steadfast and well-grounded..." she muttered in a small voice. "Those are some good qualities."

    "Huh?" Ma Jin had no idea what she meant.

    And that is why he also had no idea that he seemed to have Raelle Xiang''s attention just now. After all, what she values the most was a loyal person.

    "Can I have your business card?"

    Ma Jin''s eyes went round and his body paralyzed for a good minute. A Chairperson of arge group was actually asking for his business card? Why? What did he do?

    As if she could read his thoughts, she continued, "It seems we''ll have to see each other on more than one asion. And you never know, I might need your help one day."

    Ma Jin was still in a daze when he passed his business card to her with trembling hands. He didn''t even know why a big man like him was scared of a woman? And that too a woman who was younger than him! But it really couldn''t be helped.

    There were a lot of things he had heard about President Raelle. And right now, he could finally believe some and definitely couldn''t trust the rest. For instance, who said President Raelle was difficult to talk to? If one overlooked her strong presence, she was still human! But the most trustworthy rumor about her was that she was a woman of a strong personality. No matter how experienced you are, she could make one think twice before saying anything to her carelessly.

    When Shui Xian came back, he was met with silence. He didn''t mind it, he knew Raelle wasn''t a person who would chit chat and he also knew Ma Jin wouldn''t open his mouth carelessly either.

    He just held Raelle''s hand back and said, "Your assistant is wasted."

    "Who told her to try so hard?" was the only response he got from Raelle.

    Shui Xian shook his head lightly at her noticed something, looking at the front, he inquired, "Ma Jin, do you need an invitation to start driving already?"

    Ma Jin cleared his throat, "Master Xian, I don''t know President Raelle''s address."

    Shui Xian raised his brow, "You don''t have to know either. Just drive to your home first."

    "Master Xian?" Ma Jin looked at him incredulously.

    "What? Just drive to your ce. After dropping you off, I''ll take President Raelle home."

    He said it so naturally that it took a while for Ma Jin to process those words. Taking a deep breath, he said, "Wouldn''t it be better if I take a cab back home? It''s not good to waste President Raelle''s time like this."

    "Did I tell you to give your opinion?"

    "No."

    "So, stop wasting time thinking of this nonsense and drive already. We would have been halfway to your ce already."

    ''Well, that''s an exaggeration,'' said Ma Jin mentally but didn''t dare voice it out.

    As he drove towards his own ce, he had mentally noted down several pieces of information. First, Master Xian and President Raelle''s rtionship wasn''t simple! Second, he needed to be careful in the future. Master Xian treated President Raelle differently.

    At this moment, he assumed that Shui Xian was only pursuing Raelle and that was because Shui Xian never shared the news of his marriage. Unlike Cloe who had some clue, Ma Jin was purely clueless and had no idea what was cooking between the two people in the backseat. But he was a tactful person.

 Chapter 195 - No Spring Time

    Ma Jin''s ce wasn''t that far from Cloe''s apartment building. So it only took them about 10 minutes to get there. Ma Jin hurriedly said goodnight to both of them and made a run for his life.

    One Ice Master Xian was already enough, now he even got a partner whose own momentum was enough to crush someone. Ma Jin could already tell how difficult it was gonna be for him in the near future.

    But now that he thought about it, he seemed to have caught on a big secret. The reason behind Master Xian leaving from work had been actually a woman! Then that?bug bite?that he saw...?

    Gasp!

    Oh no! He really seemed to have caught on to something big.

    While Ma Jin''s brain was running at 180 km/hours, Shui Xian had already taken his seat behind the steering wheel. He tapped on the steering wheel as he waited for his wife but the said wife was not even paying him any attention!

    "Mrs. Shui, how abouting to take your seat beside your husband?"

    Raelle looked at him before she straight jumped to the front seat from the back one.

    Shui Xian was left gaping at her behavior. Instead of opening the door anding to the passenger seat like a normal person, she just had to do her own thing. But then again, Raelle Xiang was all about doing her own thing without caring for what people had to say about it.

    Take tonight for instance, she knew that people the business circle would start talking about her if she interacted intimately with Shui Xian, but did she care?

    But Shui Xian was delighted with the fact that she didn''t care about those people at all. He got to openly flirt with his wife. Where else would he find such a good bargain?

    "What are you looking at Mr. Shui?"

    Shui Xian smiled at that question, "I can''t seem to get enough of Mrs. Shui."

    "All you did tonight is look at my face."

    "As I said, still not enough."

    Raelle turned her head towards him and he raised his brow inquisitively at the way she was looking at his face.

    "I also feel like looking at your face," said Raelle. "But this angle is not good."

    "Huh?"

    While Shui Xian was dumbfounded ly trying to figure out her meaning, she had already pulled up her body and stuffed herself on hisp. As she straddled him in this tight position, she ced her hands against both the side of his face and stared straight.

    "Hm... Indeed, this angle is perfectly handsome."

    Shui Xian really couldn''t get used to herpliments. He thought he was getting good at taking it all in but he was just fooling himself. Just like now, just to get the right angle, who told her take on this position and test his patience?

    Did he look like a patient man? Did she really think his self-control was that good?

    He agreed, he also thought his self control was really good but that was before she got into the picture.

    She knew which buttons of his to push to get the right reaction. He was like a puppet being yed by this genius. But what to do? This genius is all his. She''s his genius wife.

    Bloody hell! He felt proud just at the thought of that!

    "Wifey, how do you do it?"

    "What did I do?" She questioned.

    Shui Xian ced his hands on her waist and pushed her down. Her back wasid over the steering wheel as Shui Dian''s hands rubbed her waist gently. He captured her lips with his own and ced one hand behind her head deepened the kiss.

    His tongue ran over to chase into her mouth. He seemed to be thoroughly enjoying himself and Raelle could feel the change in his body clearly.

    She ced her hand above the bulge in his pants. It seemed to be on fire. Shui Xian gasped at that touch and almost cursed out loud at the way she teased him.

    "Hubby, you''re getting impatient."

    Shui Xian bit his bottom lip and took deep breaths, "It''s all your fault."

    "How is it my fault again?" She wondered.

    "Forget it. I don''t even wanna exin."

    Raelle dropped a kiss at the corner of his lips and licked his lips before pulling away, "You''re gonna be disappointed tonight."

    While Shui Xian yed with her hair, he asked, "And why is that?"

    "Because spring time is over and it''s raining from today." That''s all how she responded before she jumped back to the passenger seat, fastened her seatbelt, pressed down her hair, fixed her clothes and Vo! It was as if the temptress messing around with Shui Xian had nothing to do with Raelle herself.

    But he was still trying to decipher her words as he looked out the window at the sky. "Wifey, I didn''t hear it''s gonna rain tonight? It''s early spring. It can''t be raining every day now."

    His expressions twisted as something hit him and Raelle noticed this change as she nodded her head, "Yes, you''re right. I''m on my periods."

    Shui Xian was stumped for words for a while. Earlier by spring time she meant carnal pleasure and by raining she meant monthly periods. Why did she have to use this codenguage to say it?

    He mmed his head against the steering wheel, "Wifey, it''s a crime. After igniting someone''s inner beast, you can''t just run away like this!"

    Raelle shrugged her shoulder and said, "I think I can still help you out."

    Shui Xian stared at her face and ignited the car, saying, "Let''s go home!"

    As the car eased into the highway, he asked, "Are you hungry? You didn''t eat much there." Before she could even answer, he said himself, "I should still ask the staff to prepare some snacks. It''s better to have something than not having anything at all."

    "If you''re gonna answer yourself, why did you even ask me the question?"

    "I also think I shouldn''t ask you such questions. You won''t even have any opinions on food. So it''s pointless to ask. I should take these decision myself for you, for me, and for us!"

    "Mr. Shui, it''s just food. Do you have to be so serious about it?"

    "Mrs. Shui, it''s not just food. It''s about my dear wife''s meals. I have to be serious about it."

    Raelle was silently watching him as he dialed the number for home and connected the call to the housekeeper, "Auntie, cook something light for Elle. Any snack that isn''t too heavy on the stomach at this time. Don''t forget to make the tea that has jujube, rose..."

    Raelle was listening attentively as he listed out a list of ingredients to add in just a cup of tea.

    "Is it that difficult to make a tea?" She couldn''t stop herself from asking when she saw that he was done talking on the phone. "It sounds more like a chemistry experiment than just a tea."

    Shui Xian held the steering wheel with one hand and used the other to touched her head, "That tea is important. It''s blood nourishing drink. Girls use it during this time of the month. You should be careful during this time or it''ll hurt a lot."

    "Hurt?"

    Shui Xian gave her a quick nce before his hand moved from her head to her hand. "You never had cramps, did you? Or you never realized that you''re having period cramps?"

    "Haven''t you already noticed that I''m insensitive to pain?" She talked about it quite carelessly since she really had been insensitive to pain all her life. She had never been able to tell the difference. Why else would her grandfather and Yanyan be so concerned about her health? It was because she wouldn''t even realize she got hurt.

    Shui Xian paused for a while, "Let''s not focus on that pain. The drink is to nourish your blood."

    Raelle nodded, "Yanyan also used to give me a drink during this time but I don''t know what it was. I never had to ask."

    Shui Xian shook his head at her, "That''s because even if Yanyan gave you poison, you''ll even drink that without asking."

    "But why would she give me a poison?"

    "I''m just saying that..."

    "Oh," responded Shui Xian carelessly.

    If Shui Xian knew that she was on her periods, he would have already taken her home. But she was acting as usual so he didn''t even realize that something was different about her.

    Well, you can never find anything different with her anyway. He must be crazy to think that he''d find any difference in her. But now that he knew, he tried to get home as soon as possible. Although she said it didn''t hurt, he still wanted her to take proper rest.

    "Elle, don''t run around after going home. And don''t try to tease me again as well. Just take some rest. Don''t even think about going running in the morning."

    His lecture was quite amusing.

 Chapter 196 - Our Secret

    Staying true to his words, Shui Xian was rather strict with managing Raelle''s health affairs. He first made her eat some light snacks, then offered the blood nourishing drink and watched her drink it all. It was not that she would refuse to drink it but he still couldn''t feel reassured unless he saw it with his own eyes.

    "Maybe I should get a hot water bottle for you as well," he was muttering to himself.

    Raelle didn''t know how to react to this care at all. She knew her husband was a caring person but she didn''t realize he wasn''t any better than her Opa and Yanyan. If anything, he seemed even more strict than them.

    She didn''t mind it at all. But it was strange seeing him taking care of her.

    "Hubby, I really don''t need anything," said Raelle honestly. "It''s not my first time. And I''m not as fragile as you think I am."

    Shui Xian sat beside her on the bed and touched her face, "I don''t think you''re fragile. I honestly don''t. But it''s the least I can do for you."

    "But I didn''t ask you to do any of it."

    "And I want you to ask me," he said looking distressed. "I want you to ask anything of me. I''m willing to do it. You''re my wife. You''re my responsibility. And I''d love to do anything for you."

    Raelle ced her hand over his hand that wasying against her cheek, "If I want something, I''ll ask you. I''m not someone who will keep things inside of me. So, you don''t have to worry about any of that."

    "You know, I''m really happy today."

    "Oh?" she said meaningfully. "Why is that?"

    "Today, I flirted with my wife openly," he told her with a wide grin. "And it felt good."

    "It felt good?" she repeated and he nodded his head in response.

    "It really felt good." Shui Xian sounded genuinely happy at the moment he told her this. "Especially when I realized that, in that crowd of people, only you and I knew that we are husband and wife. It was like the secret belonged to us. Just you and I. It''s our secret."

    "Such a simple thing made you feel so happy?" she questioned. "Just how easy it is to keep you happy, Mr. Shui?"

    "My Mrs. Shui," he began as he pinched her nose gently. "I''ve always been this easy. I thought I changed myself. But when you came into my life I realized that not much changed about me. I''m still the same Shui Xian who bes happy over small things." He shook his head, "I really can''t change this habit of mine."

    "Then you''re like Yanyan," said Raelle. "She also bes happy over the smallest of matters. Like if her cookies turned out in perfect shape, she''d be beaming for the rest of the day. Opa used to say people like that are rare and most genuine ones. They can find happiness in anything and that''s what makes them precious."

    Shui Xian listened to her attentively and nodded his head, "Yanyan is my wife''s favorite person. So, I should be over the moon knowing that I have somethingmon with Yanyan."

    "You''re also my person," she said with a straight face making him pause slightly.

    Shui Xian covered his chest with a hand saying, "Wifey, your attacks are lethal! Do you know how hard it was for me to stop myself from kissing you before all those people in that meeting? Your one message made me want to push you down on the table and..."

    "And?" she urged him to continue. "Finish it."

    Shui Xian cleared his throat, "Didn''t I warn you not to tease me tonight?"

    "When did I?" she retorted. "I just wanted to know what was going through that head of yours. Besides, I didn''t stop you. You could have thrown me down on the table and ravished me."

    Shui Xian coughed at her words and gave her forehead a light flick, "As if, we didn''t create enough gossip for the day."

    "What do you mean?"

    "By now, everyone in the business circle must have known that something is going on between Master Xian and President Raelle. That''s not a small matter. Considering your position and mine, people are gonna specte a lot about us."

    "So? They can do whatever they want."

    Shui Xian looked into her eyes, "If you don''t even care about their words, then why didn''t we announce our marriage yet?"

    "Didn''t I already tell you this?" Raelle put her hand on his leg saying, "I don''t want anyone tobel our marriage as a business deal. Yes, we did get into an arranged marriage but that doesn''t mean people get to talk about it in any way they want. I don''t care what they say but my grandfather and Yanyan care. They wanted us to understand each other better before they''d announce to the whole world."

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "I also think it''s okay. As I said, I havee to like this secret that belongs to us. And since I''ve already said I''m pursuing President Raelle, people would learn to digest this news sooner orter." He took a deep breath, "Forget about the rest. Now, tell me how are you feeling?"

    Raelle looked down from his eyes slowly. Her gaze seemed to be scorching even the clothes thatid against Shui Xian''s skin as it moved to the region between his legs as she asked, "I should be asking you, how are you feeling?"

    Shui Xian abruptly stood up and took a step away from her, "I''m gonna take a shower now."

    "Don''t take a cold shower," she said behind him. "I heard it''s not good for health."

    Shui Xian turned his head when he reached the bathroom door, "Wifey, stop reading unnecessary things."

    "How is it unnecessary? I should know how to care about my husband''s wellbeing. It''s to be on the safe side. It''s just not for you, it''s for me as well. Since it involves our mutual benefit, I should take it seriously."

    *SLAM!*

    Shui Xian had already closed the door of the bathroom and now stood leaning against the closed door. He looked down at the bulge in his pants and groaned heavily.

    "Oh my gosh! She really says whateveres to her mind!" he rubbed his forehead and tried to shake off the words she just said. And as always, it wasn''t easy to get Raelle Xiang''s words out of one''s mind. She just had a way to get under your skin.

    Behind him, Raelle looked at the closed door of the bathroom and mumbled, "But I was really thinking about your wellbeing."

    Her phone''s ringtone made her take her eyes away from the closed door of the bathroom and shifted towards the phone thatid beside her. Seeing the caller id, she already knew what this call was gonna be about.

    "He--"

    Raelle''s ''Hello'' was left in her mouth when Mu Chenyan''s voice rang out, "Elle, did you get your periods? I just checked the date. I''ve asked the chef to make your drink and send it to you. Don''t worry, it''ll be with you soon. Don''t jump around unless it''s necessary. And drink hot water. Stay away from cold water as much as possible. I know the weather is changing but it''s still cold outside. Add an extrayer of clothing when you go out."

    Raelle continued to listen to this lecture that she was so used to now. In fact, nothing Mu Chenyan said that strayed away from what Raelle had been hearing from her all her life. Earlier, she even got to hear a somewhat simr lecture from her husband as well. So, there was nothing new for her here.

    As always, Mu Chenyan was even more clear about her monthly date than she was herself. It just showed how much the former was involved in her daily life.

    "Yanyan, will you let me say something?"

    Mu Chenyan took a breather and hummed, "Okay. What is it?"

    "My husband already made me drink the same blood nourishing tea that you get me every month. He has put me in bed and even strictly prohibited me from taking an extra step. He even told me not to go for my morning run. I even think he ns on following me to my office tomorrow to make sure that I don''t take an extra step."

    Mu Chenyan didn''t have a response after hearing that.

    "Your husband is hell-bent on making me feel like a useless olddy," grumbled Mu Chenyan.

    "Even if you be a useless olddy, you''ll still be Raelle''s, useless olddy."

    Mu Chenyan smiled when she heard that. "That makes me feel better."

    Raelle heard a sound behind Mu Chenyan and inquired, "What''s that sound behind you?"

    Mu Chenyan''s eyes widened as she hurriedly said, "Oh, it''s nothing much. Just some fun activity of mine. Don''t worry about me. I''m fine with Yue here. Take care of yourself and sleep early. Bye-bye!"

    She didn''t even give Raelle a chance to catch on to something. However, Raelle had already caught on to something.

 Chapter 197 - Cut!

    "Cut!"

    A loud shout pulled Hyson out of his act and made him turn his head towards the director of the movie.

    "Didn''t you read the script, Mr. Hyson? You''re supposed to act despaired. What''s with that stiff reaction?"

    Like a well-mannered kid, Hyson bowed his head slightly, "I''m sorry, Director Jade!"

    Seeing him acting so calm and collected, Director Amiah Jade felt like she had punched cotton. No matter what she said, this boy never lost his temper. In fact, he never even showed a single sign of impatience as well. His sunshine personality was always intact. How infuriating!

    Amiah waved her hand saying, "Let''s take a break for now."

    Hyson went over to sit down in his chair while his assistant offered him water. Hyson wrapped the coat tightly around his body. The region they hade for the shoot had harsh conditions. It was really cold here even at this time.

    But that wasn''t his only problem at the moment. His biggest problem was that he could hardly find a signal in this remote area and that''s why he hadn''t been able to talk regrly to anyone in the past few days.

    Soon the lead female actress made her way towards him and upied the seat beside him. She pursed her lips when she noticed how he had bowed his head and almost buried himself in the script in his hand. She thought he was feeling down for getting so many NGs just now. Although his expression wasn''t wless earlier, it was passable.

    Well, it would have been passable if the Director was someone else. But Director Amiah Jade had always been notorious for her requirements. She always wanted her actors to be wless. Just passable was not worthy in her dictionary that seemed to have only one word, ''Perfection.''

    The lead actress, He Rou wasn''t that familiar with Hyson but she had a good impression of him as well. She had been paying close attention to this junior. In fact, currently, there wasn''t a single person on the set who didn''t like this junior who didn''t act out of line and who always offered a smile to everyone. People like him who carried a genuine air of purity were quite rare in this entertainment circle.

    "Don''t feel down, Junior," said He Rou. She thought about it a lot before deciding to say a fewforting words to cheer him up. "Mistakes happen in life. Besides, we can always move forward with those mistakes. We have all been there once." She paused slightly before looking around and adding in a small voice, "Also, haven''t you seen that we all also get the same treatment? Director Jade is just like that. You don''t have to take her words to heart."

    Hyson looked up at her, "Senior, who said I am upset?"

    He was surprised that he gave off the impression of someone who would be upset because of criticism. Would he have survived in this industry for seven years if a little criticism could hurt his feelings?

    Although he looked and acted like a cute baby, he wasn''t exactly one. His state of mind was strong. The credit for that had to go to his best friend who made him get used to insults. Also, he was trained to be patient by Raelle Xiang. There couldn''t be a second person more patient than Raelle herself. Since he learned from the best, he can actually im to be the second-best.

    "Oh, you look like something is bothering you," said He Rou carefully. Although she was surprised to see that he seemed fine, she still mentioned what she really felt.

    "Something is bothering me," agreed Hyson. His eyes lowered and a crease appeared between his brows. "Or maybe something is bothering me. I don''t know."

    He Rou''s brows jumped up in surprise, "That''s the expression! I don''t know what''s bothering you but that''s the look of despair that Director Jade is looking for."

    "Huh?" Hyson was surprised a little to hear that.

    "Everyone take back your positions!"

    Hearing that shout from the Director, He Rou gave him an encouraging smile. "Hold on to this feeling and you''ll definitely be able to get through this scene without a hitch. I''m rooting for you. Fighting!"

    Hyson gave her a nod and took off his coat to walk over the set towards his position. This time he listened to He Rou''s advice and continued to enhance the feeling of loss that he felt. All because he was not able to contact back home.

    Because of this, the despair and pain that he wasn''t able to portray to perfection earlier became so easy that it took Director Jade a minute toe around before calling out, ''Cut!''

    Hyson was finally able to smoothly finish his scenes for the day and sat down in the dressing room. The make-up artist helped him take off his make-up while gushing once again, "You, little brother, have such smooth skin. I can''t even see a single pore up close. I''m even afraid to touch you."

    Hyson gave her a sunny smile, "Jie is ttering me now."

    "ttering you? I''m not! Although I see beautiful faces every day since I became a professional make-up artist, it''s still rare to see someone like you who can stand out." She really felt like ruffling his hair when he smiled at her earlier. But it wasn''t appropriate so she stopped herself from doing so.

    The make-up artist truly believed that he had distinct features that set him apart in a crowd. It was no surprise for a phoenix to stand out in a crowd of chickens but it was indeed a great feat when the same phoenix could stand out in a group of dazzling phoenixes. Hyson was truly like that. He could find his own identity even between all these renowned actors.

    Sora entered the temporary dressing room while rubbing her hands and sat down before the heater but her eyes didn''t leave Hyson''s figure, not even for a second. Her eyes were burning with fire, it was so intense that even the make-up artist could feel it.

    "I really really like you, Yue Fai!" announced Sora without hesitating. "Earlier, you were awesome! I was a little scared that Mia''s temper might make you feel bad. But you exceeded my expectations. The way you faced her temper with calmness has made me respect you even more. You truly are amazing!"

    She meant every word that she said. After all, even she would lose her mind before her best friend Amiah''s short temper. But Hyson didn''t even frown at her words. No matter how extreme she went, Hyson should a professional look.

    "But you don''t have to take it all," she added. "If something does bother you, let me know. I''ll do whatever I can."

    "Is there a way I can call back home?" he questioned. "Since we came here two days ago, I haven''t been able to call home."

    Sora was taken aback by his question. She had heard other actorsining about how the weather was so bad here, there was so much snow, there was no inte to keep up with the social media, how they couldn''t update their fans about their condition but he had to be the first who actually looked so distressed because he couldn''t call home.

    Sora wanted tough at that but she knew that''d be rude so she pursed her lips to control herughter. She already knew that Hyson was different from others on the set but this boy kept changing her views about him.

    How could someone be so adorable?!

    Shaking off these thoughts, she said, "There isn''t much we can do about it. There is andline in the hotel though, you can use it."

    "I tried using it," replied Hyson. ''But I can''t talk to mom without a video call.'' He couldn''t say the rest of the sentence to her. He shook his head, "There seems to be some weather issue because of which even thendline is not working properly."

    "Oh..." Sora felt distressed for him now. She thought of something and said, "Right! We are gonna change locations in a few days. Although there might not necessarily be goodwork coverage there, it''ll still be better than here. Just bear with it till then."

    Hyson could only nod since he had no other option right now. He didn''t like traveling to ces where she couldn''t reach his mother. Now, he knew that his mother was Mu Chenyan but he still wanted to see her, to feel reassured. There was no way around it.

    He didn''t even get to disturb Raelle. Thinking how she might be feeling great about how he had no time to annoy her, he felt even more upset!

    Sora was left amused seeing how his expressions kept changing with his thoughts. It really made him look like a kid who was brooding over something. She smiled at him but didn''t point it out.

 Chapter 198 - Chiefâ€™s Husband

    Raelle felt like she needed to re-evaluate her husband all over again. He often changed so drastically that it even made her pause for a second to process that change. When they first met, he was distant but polite. Later, he warmed up to her but he was still polite. After spending some time together, he turned into another persona of her grandfather who loved to spoil her. Andtely, he loved to sweet-talk or flirt around with her.

    But fromst night, his personality took another turn. He became a dictator who had to enforce hisws at any cost! And hisw was? His wife can''t even think about anything that would harm her health.

    She wasn''t even sick. It was just a part of being a woman. And she knew that. However, he really thought it was serious.

    Raelle had always been insensitive towards pain. It wasn''t that she couldn''t feel some degree of sensation caused by pain, she was just insensitive towards it. Or to put it bluntly, she was heartless! If she held no sympathy towards others'' pain, you can expect even less of that attitude towards her own.

    Because of her impable memory, Raelle could still recall the first time she got hurt. She had fallen down while trying to run in the garden to get a flower for her Yanyan and her knee was scarped at that time. When that happened, she did feel something. It was a slight burning sensation but after a few minutes, she grew used to it. As if it was part of being normal.

    It was exactly at that time even Mu Chenyan noticed that her precious Elle wasn''t like other kids. She didn''t cry when she got hurt. In fact, she knew it from the beginning but at that time, Mu Chenyan realized how serious this matter was. She was only four but her serious expression worried Mu Chenyan to the extreme.

    Later it became normal for Raelle and Mu Chenyan had to grow used to it. Since they couldn''t find a cure for it, they made it a new normal just for Raelle. But it also meant that Mu Chenyan and Xiang Tianyu worrying about her like crazy, also became normal.

    Even when Raelle first got her periods, she did feel some difort in her lower abdomen but as always she didn''tin about it and grew uncaring towards it as well.

    This was the reason why Mu Chenyan believed that the most worrying thing about Raelle wasn''t that she couldn''t attach herself to emotions, she believed the scariest part of Raelle was her indifference towards these emotions and feelings. However, that indifference or heartlessness made her Raelle and she was still the most precious one to Mu Chenyan.

    Nothing could ever change that. And there was nothing that could change it even in the future as well.

    In the morning, Shui Xian really didn''t let her go for a run. Even though she woke up on time, as usual, he was keeping watch over her and strictly instructed, "You can do anything that doesn''t involve you getting out of the bed."

    "I still have to go to the office," reminded Raelle. She had a track record of never missing a day. There was no way she''d be willing to take a day off because of something like periods.

    "Let me see your schedule of the day," said Shui Xian thoughtfully as he extended his hand towards her. Raelle didn''t refuse as she unlocked her iPad and opened the schedule of the day for him to see. Shui Xian went through it carefully and nodded in appreciation, "You don''t have any meetings out of the office today. That means you can just sit in your office and rx."

    Raelle had no interest in arguing with her husband so she nodded obediently. "But you know, I''ll still have to walk to my office. I''m also gonna have to take an elevator to the top floor. You can''t possibly restrict me from walking now."

    "Do you really think I can''t?" he asked in a challenging tone.

    Raelle didn''t know what came over her as she responded, "Can you?"

    "Watch me!" was his reply before he turned to leave.

    Since Raelle got some extra time, she chose to look through some emails and work on them. By the time she got dressed, Shui Xian was also standing prim and proper behind her. She looked at his reflection through the mirror and blinked. In response, he gave her a smile and hunched down to carry her in his arms.

    "What are you doing?"

    "I''m taking my wife to have breakfast," he answered. As he went downstairs, he asked the maid to bring their office bags downstairs. Then he ced her on the chair and only then he also sat down beside her.

    "Hubby, do you really think I''m a fragile doll?" She stared at him who seemed to not be paying her any attention as he was busy serving food to her. "I can walk on my own. You''re being excessive."

    "I know I''m being excessive," agreed Shui Xian. He also found his actions quite bizarre but he couldn''t stop himself at all. He couldn''t help worrying about his wife who seemed to not take her own self really seriously. Everything in her life was organized and perhaps she was indeed insensitive to pain. But he wasn''t. He knew what women went through during this period of time.

    And the more she acted like it was just another day, the more he felt like he needed to take care of her. Even if it meant, he had to go to an extreme. He didn''t mind it.

    He pushed her hair away from her eyes saying, "But I''m worried about you. So, just let me be, eh? Just for the peace of my heart, let me do whatever I''m doing. Because I also have no control over what I''m doing right now. So, please, just go along with me for now."

    When he put it like that, he really looked helpless as if he really had no control over what his heart was making him do. Raelle didn''t feel like talking about it again. She silently ate her breakfast.

    After sharing the first meal of the day together, Shui Xian settled her inside her car and then got in himself as well. Raelle gazed at him in question.

    "We are not-,"

    Shui Xian put a finger on her lips, "No, my darling wife, we are going in the same direction." He asked the driver to start the car and naturally settled in.

    Since the time Shui Xian had asked Raelle not to read in the car, she had actually stopped doing it. So, now she could only look at the scenery. Since outside the window, the scene was the same as every day, she decided to enjoy the beautiful scenery inside her car. As it so happens, this morning was brightest inside her car because of a certain handsome husband upying the seat next to her.

    The car moved at a moderate speed and parked in the underground parking lot. Shui Xian first alighted and then helped his wife out. Raelle thought he''d leave after dropping her off her, but clearly, Master Xian''s n was different as he carried her in his arms again and walked over to the exclusive elevator.

    Raelle wasn''t gonna ask him but she still did, "What are you doing now?"

    "Didn''t you challenge me in the morning that I can''t restrict you? I''m just telling you, I can do whatever I want. And you can''t stop me."

    "I can''t stop you? Why is that?"

    "Because you''re my legally wedded wife!"

    Raelle shut her mouth and let him be. She only told him the floor number and wrapped her arms around his neck. She even found afortable position to lean in his embrace. Shui Xian''s smile deepened when he noticed her actions.

    Since it was the exclusive elevator for President Raelle, only she was allowed to use it. However, the top floor wasn''t exclusively hers. The secretarial department was just getting ready for the day when they were left wide-eyed staring at their President Raelle in a man''s arms. Cloe was the one waiting outside Raelle''s office and she was the one who reacted first, "Good morning, Chief and Chief''s husband."

    After mulling over it for a whole night, Cloe had seemed toe to terms with Raelle Xiang being Master Xian''s wife. As if it was the most natural thing in the world. Besides, whether she liked it or not, the truth was before her eyes. And she wasn''t blind enough to turn her eyes away from this truth.

    "What do you mean by Chief''s husband? He has his own identity!"

    Cloe wasn''t to roll her eyes at Raelle''s words but she actually ended up smiling sincerely as she greeted Shui Xian again, "Good morning, Master Xian. It''s a pleasant surprise seeing you here this morning."

 Chapter 199 - Taking It Personally

    Since Cloe had to confirm today''s itinerary with Raelle, she followed them inside the office. As she was closing the door, she could see the staff craning their necks trying to get a peek of the situation inside. But Cloe firmly shut the door at their faces.

    When she turned around, Shui Xian had just put Raelle on her chair. Then he straightened up and looked around her office. It was his first time at his wife''s office, he was certainly curious to see the ce she worked at.

    "Aren''t you gettingte for the day, Hubby?"

    *Cough! Cough! Cough!*

    Cloe ended up coughing when she heard Raelle calling him, ''hubby'' so naturally. She covered her mouth and apologized before lowering her head.

    Shui Xian smiled at her reaction before he answered his wife, "No, wifey. I still have time." Then he faced her and added, "Besides, I was thinking I should just take a day off today."

    "No!" came Raelle''s response. "Go to work."

    Shui Xian made a face to show his grievance, "Wifey, how can you so easily tell me to leave? Wouldn''t you be happy that your husband is willing to leave everything to spend a day with you?"

    "That''s unnecessary," replied Raelle.

    Shui Xian sighed out heavily, "It seems my wife doesn''t need me." He held her hand reluctant to let go, "What to do? I don''t wanna leave my wife."

    Raelle didn''t even bother responding to his act so Shui Xian could only let go. He leaned down to drop a kiss at her temple saying, "Take care of yourself. I''ll call to check up on you."

    Raelle hummed in reply and watched him leave. She pointed at Cloe and taking the hint, Cloe also followed him out.

    Outside her office, after the initial shock of seeing their boss in a man''s arms wore off, now everyone finally noticed the man who had walked into their boss'' room. Cloe could only give them a hard stare to make them get back to their work as she escorted Shui Xian to the elevator.

    "How''s your hangover?" inquired Shui Xian when Cloe entered the elevator with him. It seemed she was asked to escort him to the car. Shui Xian was amused by the thought of his wife having her Vice President escort him to his car.

    Cloe rubbed her forehead and smiled awkwardly, "Bearable."

    "Do you have something to say to me?"

    Cloe looked up at him and pursed her lips before nodding her head.

    "Go ahead."

    Cloe hesitated for a minute before saying, "Your image just copsed."

    "Huh?"

    "I had a revered image of you in my mind but today, you just destroyed it by trying to act cute with Chief."

    "What am I gonna do by keeping an image before my own wife?" restored Shui Xian calmly. "She doesn''t need me to keep that kind of an image. It''s really unnecessary."

    Cloe zipped her lips and decided not toment on this. Ice Master Xian turned out to be a member of the doting wife club. There was nothing she could do about it. She could only ept this reality that Master Xian wasn''t as cold as it was rumored.

    As Shui Xian reached the car, he turned back to look at her and said, "I hope you take care of my wife. She isn''t well today."

    Cloe''s lips twitched, "Aren''t you overdoing it?"

    "Am I?" Shui Xian looked at her thoughtfully before shaking his head. "I don''t think so. If I have to get to my wife''s heart, I have to overdo it a little. She is special. I have to take a special approach to pursue her as well."

    Cloe cursed under her breath when she saw him leaving. ''This husband and wife are not gonna let me live. My single soul is tortured here!'' She thought to herself with a crying face. Then she wiped her non-existent tears, flipped her hair, and trotted off.

    By the time she arrived at the top floor, she could hear a lot of gossip flying around in the air.

    Employee A: "Is President Raelle dating?"

    Employee B: "She sure has a handsome boyfriend. I''m so jealous!"

    Employee C: "But why does he look so familiar?"

    Cloe really didn''t want to pay attention to any of it but she had to do so. She gathered all these gossip mongers around and warned, "If you keep running off your mouths like this, soon I''ll throw you all out of here. Stop gossiping and get back to work."

    Although she loved to gossip herself, she also knew that some things couldn''t be said out loud.

    She went back to Raelle and informed, "I personally escorted Master Xian to the car and only came back after the car left." Raelle hummed in reply and Cloe got serious as she detailed her about the itinerary. "There is another thing I think I should let you know."

    "What is it?"

    "Sincest night Master Xian publicly disyed his interest in you, currently a lot of reporters are trying to get a scoop."

    "So?"

    "If you want to keep your rtionship a secret, I suggest that you avoid keeping a high profile."

    Raelle lifted her eyes, "And who said I want to keep our rtionship a secret?"

    Cloe was stunned, "You don''t? Why are you hiding that you both got married?"

    "That''s different," responded Raelle. "But I don''t see any problem with everyone knowing that there is indeed something going on between us. At least, it''d keep people from trying to approach me with ulterior motives."

    "I should really re-evaluate my understanding of you," said Cloe. Suddenly, thinking of something, Cloe asked, "Chief, where is your best friend these days?"

    "He joined the film crew," answered Raelle.

    "Where is he and how is he doing?"

    Raelle tapped her finger on the table and she repeated, "How is he doing? I also wonder what he is up to."

    "You don''t know?" Cloe''s eyes widened in shock. Didn''t Raelle Xiang like to have everything under her control? Then howe there was something she didn''t know right now? Especially when it involved her best friend!

    However, Raelle really had no idea about Hyson''s situation at the moment. She didn''t even get to talk to him in the past few days. She had just tried to call him this morning but his phone was out of reach. She did know that he had awork issue wherever he was.

    ....

    Meanwhile, the person in question had still been sulking because he couldn''t contact his family. He knew Raelle wouldn''t worry about it since the watch she gave him could allow her to not only track his location but it could also send his vitals. So, she''d be reassured as long as his heart was beating.

    But he wasn''t reassured at all! He wanted to see his family!

    What was the point of living in this technologically advanced world when he couldn''t even check up on his family? At one point he even regretted taking this role.

    He was the crazy person who left his full schrship in Country G just because he wanted toe back to his mother. How could he bear this situation?

    However, Hyson didn''t realize that his bad mood was actually being seen in a different way by the whole crew. Sora even went to reproach her best friend, "Mia, how could you be so mean? Hyson is such a cheerful person and because of you he had been in a bad mood."

    "What did I do wrong?" questioned Director Amiah Jade.

    "Couldn''t be a little nicer to him? It''s his first time. Of course, he''d make some mistakes. It''s normal. He isn''t superhuman."

    Amiah didn''t really listen to her as she replied, "If he can''t handle it, he should quit early to save us all."

    Sora was infuriated to hear that, "I can''t believe I have a friend like you. I know you have a short temper but when did your personality get so bad? I almost can''t recognize you." She took a long and deep breath, "You know what, don''t talk to me now."

    "How can you take this personally?"

    Sora pointed at her, "You''re the one taking it personally. I know you don''t like people like Hyson but I thought you''d put your prejudice aside for my sake. After all, it''s me who insisted on casting him. But I really overestimated our friendship."

    "It''s nothing like that," Amiah tried to exin but Sora was in no mood to listen now. She huffed and left her behind. Amiah rubbed her temples and looked over at Hyson. Her eyes turned cold when she thought about how he was the reason why her best friend was acting like this with her.

    She thought of something and went up to Hyson''s side. Hyson didn''t even look up. He was lost in his own world since he was done with his scenes for the day.

    "It seems it was really a mistake to have you join this crew," said Amiah with anger.

 Chapter 200 - No Faith In Your Friend

    Hyson was lost in his own world of wallowing and it took him a while to even realize that Director Jade was actually talking to him. And then it took him another minute to recall and register what she had just said.

    However, his face didn''t show any of his emotions even after his brain processed her words.

    He nced at her and said, "Then you can simply kick me out of the crew. It''s rather early now. You''ll definitely save a lot of your time and money in this way."

    "Do you really think I can''t throw you out of this production?" Amiah''s face distorted as she narrowed her eyes at Hyson.

    Hyson shook his head carelessly, "No, I definitely believe that you can throw me out."

    Amiah crossed her arms over her chest as she intently looked at his face. Hyson didn''t even budge under her intense gaze. Oh, please! He was the hell queen''s best friend. If he could deal with that expressionless face for years, this so-called anger couldn''t really faze him now.

    He wasn''t some small-time fry. Yes, he was an artist but he was proud of what he did.

    Besides, his mother always instilled in him that he should face everyone with his head held high. Even Raelle repeatedly told him that if he ever let anyone look down on him, she''d be the first to beat him up for giving the other person a chance to walk all over him.

    Amiah scoffed at his haughty look that said he wasn''t gonna bow his head before her, "If I really kicked you out, trust me, no one in this industry would ever dare approach you again."

    Hyson shrugged his shoulders nonchntly, "If God closes a door, He can certainly open another one."

    Amiah was a little surprised to see his reaction. He didn''t seem to be pretending. He really didn''t care whether he stayed in this production or not. As if she had no value in his eyes.

    "Since you don''t care about it, why don''t you step down from this production on your own?"

    Hyson stood up and faced her squarely, "Director Jade, if you''re the one to ask me to leave, I''ll leave without any issue. However, if you''re waiting for me to give up just because you have a prejudice against an idol like me, then I''ll have to disappoint you. I won''t be leaving this crew on my own. No matter how much you push me down, I''ll still crawl my way up."

    Amiah looked into his clear and solemn eyes and worded out, "So, you won''t mind me humiliating you but you won''t give up on your own, eh? Is your self-respect so cheap?"

    The small polite smile on Hyson''s face vanished. And just as it did, his whole persona changed. That pure look that made people''s hearts itch was nowhere to be seen. In its ce now was a wicked aura that swirled within his eyes. Coupled with his handsome face, he truly looked like a handsome devil that could entice a person''s soul.

    For a second Director Jade had an illusion that his aura was pressing her down, suffocating her to the point that she couldn''t breathe. It felt so heavy around her that she couldn''t even look straight into his eyes. She was startled by this discovery.

    However, when she looked up again, he had gone back to his gentle demeanor. He became the same Hyson that was known as everyone''s favorite little brother. Adorable and gentle.

    Amiah thought she was really mistaken and shook her head to clear her thoughts.

    "My self-respect, my pride isn''t cheap. However, it''s not above someone''s trust." He offered Amiah a harmless smile as he went on, "I joined this crew because Miss Sora had put her faith in me. I can never let a person down who put their trust in me. If it''s in my hand, I''ll do everything to not make that person regret having faith in me. That is why I said, I won''t give up. I refuse to give up. But if you are dissatisfied with me and my acting, you can certainly rece me."

    For a long while, Amiah couldn''t find words to say to him. He said he was here because someone put her trust in him. Only now she realized why he never showed any dissatisfaction with however she targeted him. She feltplicated inside.

    However, it wasn''t enough for her to back down either.

    "I do want to rece you. If it wasn''t for Sora insisting on casting you, I''d have never selected someone like you." She had turned to leave after saying her piece when she heard Hyson''s voice from behind.

    "Can I ask you a question?" Hyson sounded really calm. As if they were just talking about the cold weather that had been tormenting them for the past week.

    "What is it?" Amiah Jade sounded impatient.

    "Miss Sora is your...?"

    "She is my best friend. Everyone knows that already," replied Amiah.

    Hyson nodded his head, "Then it''s really a pity."

    "What do you mean?" retorted Amiah seeing his expression.

    "You having no faith in me is a given. We don''t know each other. It''s alright for you to be uncertain about an idol like me who has no prior acting experience." He took a pause and added, "But isn''t it a pity that you have no faith in your best friend''s vision?" Amiah''s eyes widened at his words. "It''s your best friend''s belief in me that made me stand here before you. However, you as her best friend have no belief in her. I really pity such a friendship."

    He didn''t stick around to wait for her reply and walked away leaving a stunned Director behind him. He didn''t care whether he crossed a line or not. Who told her to call his dignity cheap? And besides, he hated such friendship as well.

    At the end of the day, he realized how precious his own best friend was. If he said to jump down a cliff, she''d even do that. Okay, maybe he''s going too far with that. Because Raelle would definitely ask a million questions but in the end, she''ll still jump if he was the one telling her to do so.

    Hyson couldn''t help sighing ruefully at the thought of his best friend. Maybe he had been so spoiled in this friendship by Raelle that his standard for friendship went too high. So, now that he saw how Director Jade didn''t even believe in her best friend''s vision, it ticked him off.

    It was pointless to argue with a headstrong person like Director Jade and Hyson had decided to not argue with her either. However, today, just within a few days, he ended up arguing with her. He looked towards the sky, the says ahead looked as gloomy as the sky right now.

    "Brother Fai!"

    Hyson looked at the assistant that hade running after him, panting.

    "What is it?" he inquired.

    This assistant wasn''t his. But he had seen this person around the set. So, she must be an assistant to someone on the crew. He didn''t pay much attention to such stuff anyway. It was pointless to do so. And he was the kind of a person who would rather mind his own business.

    "I heard you haven''t been able to contact your family and were feeling down?"

    Hyson''s brows furrowed up. How did this person know about that?

    Seeing his expression, the young girl waved her hands, "Don''t get me wrong. I heard the make-up artist talking about it."

    Hyson had a look of understanding since he did talk about it around Sora and the make-up artist.

    "Anyway, I know a ce where you can find the signal," she told him.

    Hyson''s eyes brightened up instantly as he looked at her, "What? Really? Where?"

    Seeing his excited look and sparkling eyes, the young girl was left in a trance and flushed when she realized that she had been staring at him for far too long now.

    Clearing her throat, she pointed him in the right direction, "If you reach the top, you can catch some signal. There is even a small cafe kind of shop there as well."

    Hyson eyed her doubtfully and the young girl could see his vignce, so she pointed in that direction again and said, "Look over there, even our Male Lead just came from there. I''m not lying to you."

    Hyson did see the Male Lead of the movieing from the same direction holding hisptop. He wasn''t surprised that others were eager to find somework here as well. After all, all these celebrities couldn''t live without their social media. And he was the only ck sheep, who had never even touched his social media. But since the other person held hisptop, it confirmed that there was indeed a ce up there that could provide him with the inte.

    Since he knew there was a ce where he could finally get to see his mother, he said his thanks and ran off in that direction.

    The young girl behind him smirked evilly and huffed before trotting away.

 Chapter 201 - Someone Will Come

    Although it was true that this remote vige had a cafe-like establishment that provided inte services, it was also true that Hyson was given the wrong directions for it.

    But oblivious to this fact, Hyson was happily moving along the trail with his hand stretched out, looking for awork. It took him a while to realize that he had gone deeper into the mountain forest. As his eyes wandered around, all he could see was a dense forest covered in snow.

    He tightly held his jacket and cursed his luck.

    "It looks like a winter fairytale," he said out loud. When he felt like his voice just echoed in this ce where there was no one else in sight, he shuddered. "And it''s a perfect ce for horror movies!" He pushed his phone back into his pocket and ced his hand on the side of the tree saying, "I''m the biggest idiot in the world. No wonder characters like me be the first ones to be killed in horror movies. How could I just get lost here? Am I still bad with directions?"

    While he was cursing his bad sense of direction, he didn''t for once doubt that perhaps someone led him in this wrong direction. His heart was more inclined to believe that he made a mistake. After all, it was a proven fact that he could lose his sense of direction once he gets excited. It didn''t just happen once or twice anyway.

    "I should look for my way back," he muttered when he noticed that the gloomy sky was turning gloomier. It certainly was going to snow again, and if he stayed out here, he''d die from cold. Or perhaps, he''ll be buried deep in the snow forever.

    Hyson shook his head to get these thoughts out of his head. He willed himself to find his way back home. Just thinking about the grief his mother would have to face because of him was enough to make his heart wrench in pain.

    For the next hour, he seemed to be turning in circles with no sight of the way out of here. He thought it couldn''t get any worse when he saw the soon it was going to be nightfall. But certainly, life proved him wrong.

    While he was looking for a way out, his foot got stuck somewhere and before he knew it, he was rolling down the mountain. He let out a scream as his body was rolling down like a sack of potatoes. Just as his head about to hit a tree, something cushioned his body and stopped him from falling to his death.

    For a long minute, Hyson''s brain was still dizzy from that fall. He was staring nkly in space as he tried to gather his spirit and looked around. He dusted off the snow from his body and groaned in pain. From rolling down on the snow, his body seemed to have been crushed. He was aching all over.

    But now that he sat on something soft, he was tried to figure out where he was.

    "Wait! What''s underneath me?" he questioned himself before he moved theyer of snow a little and... "AHHHH!!!!"

    He jumped up and moved farther away while screaming. Bloody hell! He knew snow was a perfect ce to bury a secret or a dead body but he didn''t expect to run into a real dead body! He looked heavenwards as heined inwardly, ''Why is my luck so bad today? I should have read my horoscope before leaving the house.''

    After taking a deep breath, he moved towards the ''dead body'' that cushioned his fall and saved his life. He wasn''t scared of the dead body as much as he made it seem like. The earlier scream was out of sudden shock. He moved all the snow away from the ''dead body'' and turned the body around.

    Right before his eyesid a man d in a soldier''s uniform. It was obvious that he was a part of the army but what was he doing here? Hyson looked towards the trees around them and found a parachute stuck in the tall trees.

    He put his finger underneath his nose and then checked his heartbeat. His brows jumped up when he realized that the man was still alive. His body''s temperature was dropping because of the snow but he was certainly breathing for now.

    Hyson hurriedly took off his own jacket and wrapped it around the man before he rubbed his hands with his own trying to transfer some heat.

    At this moment, Hyson was even more worried than when he realized that he had lost his way. After all, now there was life was at stake here. He didn''t know what to do to help. He couldn''t even call anyone for help here.

    What to do?

    What to do?

    What to do?

    *Cough! Cough! Cough!*

    Hyson turned his head towards the man who had been unconscious when he heard a weak coughing sound. When he saw his eyes opening slightly, Hyson was really excited.

    "Hey! Soldier, are you awake? How are we feeling? Can you hold on for a while?"

    The man tried to sit up and Hyson helped him lean against the street trunk. Then his eyes looked at Hyson vigntly but seeing the concern in his eyes, he rxed a little. Instead of answering Hyson, the man seemed to be observing their surroundings right now.

    "Yes, you are right," Hyson seemed to be telling him but seemed more like talking to himself. "We are stuck here. You fell straight from the sky, I rolled down here. Well, whatever the means got us here, we did end up here together. So, nice to meet you,rade, I''m Yue Fai. It''s a pleasure to meet you here."

    The man looked at Hyson''s smile and found it puzzling. He could tell that Hyson was civilian but why did he appear to be a lot calmer than normal people. As if he wasn''t scared of dying here.

    He opened his mouth and licked his dry and bluish lips before saying in a hoarse voice, "I''m Weimin. Xiang Weimin."

    "Weimin..." repeated Hyson softly and then looked at his uniform before nodding. "The name is certainly befitting of you. Weimin, the people''s hero."

    "Mymunication device is broken," said Xiang Weimin. "I''m not sure if my team will be able to find us here."

    Hyson nodded his head in understanding, "Don''t worry, I''ll get you out of here. Even if it means, I''ll have to give everyone a scare."

    "Huh?"

    Hyson didn''t exin anything to him, just offered him a smile before he took off his watch and opened the back of it before pressing a small button inside. Then he added, "The help will be here in thirty minutes." The reason why Hyson hadn''t been scared was still the same. Raelle would find him anywhere. As long as he had this watch, he had nothing to fear.

    He was scared then he was about to fall to his death because then he wouldn''t even be able to press that button to call for help.

    "By the way, do you think there are any animals in this forest?"

    Xiang Weimin looked at Hyson in amusement and nodded, "There are snow wolves here."

    Hysonughed that felt more like crying, "I don''t wanna die from being torn apart. That would be the worst way to die."

    "You don''t look as scared of death as you are trying to make it seem,"mented Xiang Weimin.

    "Are you scared,rade?" Hyson retorted.

    Xiang Weimin gave him a look, "I''m a soldier. We wear our life on our sleeves. Even if I die here, I won''t have any regrets."

    "I have respect for soldiers like you," said Hyson. "Most of that respect and admiration has to do with my best friend''s family but still. I do really respect soldiers." Hyson took a pause and asked, "You should talk less to conserve your energy. I wouldn''t have taken that risk of asking for help from my best friend if I wasn''t worried about your life."

    "You wouldn''t call for help for yourself?"

    "I don''t know," replied Hyson. He really didn''t know whether he would have taken the step to ask for help from Raelle if he was alone in this situation. Well, at least, he wouldn''t have done it until he was desperate.

    "How did you end up here though?"

    Hyson pointed in a direction, "I lost my way on the mountain trail and then my foot slipped. Finally, I rolled down here and thanks to you, I didn''t fall to my death. Since you saved my life, I''ll return the favor."

    Hyson saw his shuddering body and frowned, "Should I try to gather some wood for the fire?"

    "You won''t find any dry wood," said Xiang Weimin.

    Hyson hummed in reply, "Then I hope you hold on a little longer. The help will be here soon."

    "You''re very certain that someone wille."

    Hyson smiled at him, "I have faith in my Elle."

 Chapter 202 - Days Of Freedom

    Xiang Weimin was actually surprised to see that Hyson actually had so much faith in his best friend. He literally looked like he was on a casual trip around here and nothing could go wrong. Perhaps, that''s the power of faith. He couldn''t tell what it was but he found it quite refreshing nheless.

    "Are you bored?" asked Hyson after another moment of silence.

    "I''m not. But I believe you''re bored," replied Xiang Weimin.

    "How did youe to that conclusion?"

    "Either you''re bored or you don''t like to stay quiet. I can''t think of another reason why someone would be so enthusiastically talking when their life is not even guaranteed."

    Hyson chuckled at his response, "Well, I agree, I''m bored. How about I sing a song for you?"

    "Sing a song?" repeated Xiang Weimin as he tried to see Hyson''s features in the growing darkness.

    Hyson scratched his head sheepishly as he added, "But I don''t know any patriotic songs that you soldiers like so maybe I shouldn''t sing." After a brief moment, he added, "Then how about you tell me how you ended up here?"

    Xiang Weimin didn''t reply immediately, he looked towards the sky and sighed softly.

    "I should not ask that, right?" Hyson could tactfully understand his reluctance to answer.

    "Actually, I can tell you. But as a civilian, it''ll not be good for you to know these affairs," answered Xiang Weimin honestly. He didn''t know why he let his guard so down around Hyson but no matter what, he couldn''t feel any threat or maliciousness from him. If anything, he only felt Hyson''s genuine concern for him. Even though they were just strangers.

    "I believe you''re part of the Air Force?"

    "Yes," responded Xiang Weimin softly but didn''t continue this topic.

    "Let''s say if a snow wolf reallyes out here, can you save us both?"

    "Are you feeling scared now?"

    Hyson scratched his nose, "It''s not that I''m scared. I just don''t have a way to defend myself in this situation."

    For the next thirty minutes, Hyson casually conversed with the injured soldier beside him. He really was feeling bored. And since he didn''t have to maintain an image before this unknown soldier, he didn''t mind making small talk.

    While on the other hand, on the shooting set, everyone was looking for Hyson.

    "Sora, your precious actor is making trouble for us now," Amiah stared at Sora who was looking rather nervous and scared.

    They had been looking for Hyson everywhere but even his assistant didn''t know where he was. "Where did youst see him?" asked Sora to Hyson''s assistant.

    "Brother Fai was talking to Director Jade when I stepped aside," the young assistant replied honestly.

    "What did you say to him?" questioned Sora clearly in a bad mood now.

    "What did I say? You should ask what did he say to me!" Amiah shot back at her. She had been so down since shest conversed with Hyson. Each and every word of his had hit her at a sore spot. It made her want to strangle him. But although she had a bad temper and a habit of breaking things, she wasn''t a violent person who would hurt others.

    "Even the phone doesn''t work here, how are we supposed to look for him?" questioned Sora but she didn''t know who was supposed to answer her at this moment. She bit her nails anxiously. "What if something happened to him in this unknown ce?!"

    "Zhou Xu!" called out He Rou.

    The Male Lead of the movie, Zhou Xu had been resting in the dressing room and just came out. "What is it, Teacher He?"

    "Have you seen Hyson?" asked He Rou.

    Zhou Xu was about to shake his head when he recalled something, "I think I saw him with that little girl Miss Sora brought to the crew. The one who came to get practical experience from Director Jade." Then he told them where he saw the two of them talking and shrugged his shoulder as he concluded, "The rest I don''t know. I was tired after the video conference, so I took a short nap. Why? Where is our neer?"

    "He is missing!" He Rou answered it for him since at the moment both Sora and Amiah had a dark expression clouding them.

    Zhou Xu was taken aback and said, "Then what are you doing here? Look for him! That little cutie might get hurt out in the jungle. Besides, I just learned that there is a snowstorming. If he got stuck in it, he won''t survive."

    Everyone''s mood dropped even lower when they heard his words. No wonder the sky had been turning gloomier and gloomier. Even the darkness of the night was denser. Although the wind wasn''t howling, there was a stillness in the air that seemed to be like a silence before the storm.

    Sora red at Amiah and yelled, "Someone would be really happy if he is gone."

    Amiah felt guilty even though she knew she didn''t do anything wrong. She still somehow felt like it was her fault. She definitely didn''t want Hyson to get hurt. And right now, whether he was alive or not couldn''t even be confirmed. It really evoked a bad feeling within her soul.

    As the darkness was increasing, their anxiety was reaching a new peak as well. They couldn''t find a sign of Hyson anywhere. Even the girl who wasst seen with Hyson couldn''t be found on the set any longer. Everyone could guess what was happening here but they didn''t pay attention to it since the main concern at the moment was to learn about Hyson''s whereabouts.

    Suddenly, they heard the sound of helicopters and everyone looked up in surprise. There were about a dozen helicopters that seemed to be on a rescue mission. No one knew why but the atmosphere grew tenser than before at this moment.

    The bad premonition in Amiah''s heart grew as she looked towards those helicopters.

    .....

    She should have taken that bad feeling seriously. After all, the missing person was Raelle Xiang''s one and only precious best friend. She had no idea what Raelle Xiang was capable of doing for her best friend. In fact, even Raelle didn''t know what she was willing to do for Hyson. Or how far she could really go for him. But it was a fact that Hyson was that part of her life that was irreceable.

    Earlier, Raelle was in a meeting when suddenly her phone made a ring sound. Her body paused slightly. She picked up her phone and checked the rm sound that rang from the app that was connected to Hyson''s watch.

    She turned her eyes towards Cloe, "Take over the meeting."

    Cloe was startled and so was everyone else in the conference room when they watched her leaving without looking back. All of them turned to Cloe with questioning gazes but the poor Cloe was clueless at this moment herself. How could she help feed their curiosity?

    This was the first time Raelle had walked out of the meeting. She didn''t even look back and threw everything on Cloe''s head before walking away. The office was already abuzz due to Shui Xian''s visit in the morning which shocked them and now, their President actually left a meeting halfway through.

    Something was definitely up. And everyone could feel it now.

    Raelle walked to her office and turned on herptop. She could see Hyson''s location and she forwarded to another number before making a call, "I have sent you the location. Initiate the rescue n. You have fifteen minutes to organize people to look for him. And you better find him within an hour. Let me know when you do find him."

    After she hung up the call, she continued to look at the data on her screen that showed Hyson''s vitals. It seemed his health was alright but then why did he call for help? What trouble bothered him enough to look for her to solve it for him?

    Raelle''s fingers tapped the tabletop as she mumbled, "What did you get yourself into now?"

    Hyson would never ask for Raelle''s help unless or until it was absolutely necessary to do so. He wasn''t any less prideful than she was. He wanted to solve his problems himself. That was the reason whenever she offered to help with his career, he pushed her away.

    Just like this movie he was acting in. She could have be the biggest investor to solve any problem for him but she knew he won''t like it. That''s why she didn''t even offer to help. But it seemed, she should have helped.

    Her eyes bore at the data before her eyes as she whispered, "Let''s see how you manage to act willfully again. This time, I''ll definitely put a team of babysitters around you."

    Poor Hyson didn''t even know that his days of freedom wereing to an end. He finally gave Raelle a reason to keep an eye on him.

 Chapter 203 - Accidents Donâ€™t Just Happen

    *Chuff-Chuff-Chuff*

    Hearing the chuff of the helicopter des, Xiang Weimin looked up. He couldn''t be more familiar with the sound of those des. What surprised him was that currently, a dozen helicopters were flying overhead. They seemed to know they were here.

    He looked down at Hyson whose eyes curled like a devilish fox who was proud of some kind of achievement. And indeed Hyson was feeling really great. There was a reason why he was so proud of his friendship. It was simple, he knew he could depend on Raelle. And that girl would never let him down. That''s just the kind of person she was.

    If one puts their faith in her, she''d do anything to never let them down.

    Xiang Weimin''s gaze towards Hyson turnedplicated as he asked, "Who are you exactly?"

    Hyson pointed at his nose, "Me?" Shrugging his shoulders he added, "I''m just a normal guy who had an abnormal friend. Oops, sorry! I mean, I have a rich best friend." Then heughed at his own words. He patted Xiang Weimin''s shoulder who flinched because of the pain but Hyson couldn''t see it for now. "Comrade, let''s get out of here now."

    As he said that, several men with shlights pointed in his direction. They had juste down from the helicopter to check on his situation. Hyson waved at them as he called out, "Here! We need help here!"

    "Young Master, are you alright?" asked one of the men while the other turned on hismunication device to brief the others about the situation here.

    Hyson''s lips twitched when he heard that ''Young Master.'' He really didn''t like being addressed in this way. But he couldn''t do anything about it. Since he was important to Raelle Xiang, everyone around her took it upon themselves to make sure to treat him with respect.

    "My friend here is injured," said Hyson ignoring the matter of being called ''Young Master'' for now. He had more important things to focus on for now.

    Within fifteen minutes, both Hyson and Xiang Weimin had moved to the helicopter and flew out of this god-forsaken ce. Hyson already didn''t like cold, and after this experience, he was certainly gonna hate it even more.

    The helicopter took them to the best hospital in the vicinity and it was actually two hours away from the remote vige. This town seemed to have all the facilities that a normal city would. Xiang Weimin and Hyson were both sent to the examination room.

    Hyson, however, wasn''t inclined on getting an examination as he told them, "Focus on him. He is the injured one. I''m as fit as one can be."

    One of the men stepped up to say politely, "Young Master, it''s President Raelle''s order to get you an examination. We are just following the orders. Please, don''t make it difficult for us."

    When he heard that Hyson stopped resisting, he knew he couldn''t get out of it now. Raelle won''t let him get out of this so easily. Hyson rubbed his forehead and said, "I''ll do it. Just keep an eye on my friend. I think he is injured heavily. So make sure he receives proper treatment here."

    "Rest assured, we''ll do our best to provide him with the best here."

    Only then Hyson went to go through an examination. Behind him, the leader called Raelle and informed her, "Yes, President Raelle, we just sent Young Master to get an examination. We''ll keep you updated."

    "Tell him to call him when he is out," replied Raelle.

    "Yes!"

    Unlike what Hyson had been saying, he actually had gotten some injuries. Rolling down from such a height obviously was supposed to leave some scars on him. Although he physically seemed fine, all his injuries were internal. And internal injuries were usually not only difficult to treat but also more painful.

    After the examination, he was shifted to the ward where Xiang Weimin was. Hyson looked at him and asked the doctor, "How is he?"

    "Something sharp pierced through his thigh and he broke a rib. Apart from that were some flesh wounds that incurred because he fell down from a height."

    Hyson looked at Xiang Weimin in concern and asked, "But he''ll be fine, right?"

    The doctor nced at Xiang Weimin before saying, "Lieutenant seems to be quite tough. He''ll be fine after resting for a month or two." Then the doctor gave Xiang Weimin a look, "And I hope, Lieutenant doesn''tpromise on resting. That''d be quite dangerous for your health."

    Xiang Weimin gave him a nod, "I''ll take note of that."

    After the doctor walked out, Hyson said, "Lieutenant? What is your rank exactly?"

    "Let me formally introduce myself," said Xiang Weimin. "I''m Lieutenant Colonel Xiang Weimin."

    "Wow!" Hyson looked at his face and suddenly paused a little. "That name sounds oddly familiar now that I''m hearing again. And adding on your face..." A very familiar face shed past Hyson''s eyes but he shook it away. "No way! I can''t possibly have such a coincidence."

    Xiang Weimin didn''t know what Hyson was muttering to himself but he seemed to be in disbelief.

    Hyson turned his head and stared at Xiang Weimin once again. Earlier because of the darkness and because of dirt, he couldn''t see Xiang Weimin''s face clearly. But now that Xiang Weimin had been cleaned up, his handsome face could be seen. He had a sharp gaze and he gave off a heroic spirit.

    But this face had a resemnce with his best friend. They even shared the samest name. And he suddenly recalled that Raelle''s elder brother''s name was also Xiang Weimin. Even if he wanted to deny it now, he couldn''t do so. He indeed got into such a bizarre coincidence.

    *Knock!*

    With a knock, Hyson was pulled out of his daydreaming and looked at the person who walked inside. The man passed him the phone, "President Raelle would like to talk to you."

    Hearing ''President Raelle'' Xiang Weimin''s brows furrowed up slightly and he looked over. Hyson was already paying attention to the phone so he didn''t see the look on Xiang Weimin''s face. He looked like he was expecting something.

    Hyson held the phone against his ear and started first, "Before you start insulting me, I''m telling you, I just got back from the door of death."

    "So?" retorted Raelle calmly.

    Hyson licked his lips and his voice softened, "So, please go easy on the insults. My heart is still stuck in my throat."

    "Hyson, do you know what your doctor just said?" asked Raelle in reply.

    "I don''t know," answered Hyson honestly. "The doctor didn''t tell me anything."

    "You sprained your ankle, your whole body is covered in ck and blue. You have received some internal injury that will take a couple of weeks to heal. Although the strain on your ankle isn''t serious, it''ll still take some time to heal. Now, tell me, what am I supposed to do with this knowledge?"

    Hyson bit his lips, he didn''t think his situation was anything serious. He honestly couldn''t feel that much pain. "You can do whatever you want to do with this knowledge, just don''t tell Mum."

    "I can''t lie to her," replied Raelle.

    "Who is asking you to lie?" retorted Hyson. "If she won''t ask, you don''t say. It''s as simple as that. You certainly can keep your mouth shut for now, can''t you?"

    "What''s the point?" asked Raelle. "She''ll eventually know about it."

    "Ellie!" eximed Hyson. "Can''t you understand it? She is enjoying herself for the first time in years. I don''t want her to leave everything and rush back just because of me. Don''t you think I''ve held her back enough already?"

    Raelle was silent for a minute before she replied, "Fine. I won''t say it unless she asks about you. But I won''t lie if she did ask." Hyson heaved a sigh of relief and she went on, "Now, would you like to tell me what happened? How did you end up in a situation where you''d need my help?"

    "I lost my way," answered Hyson. "Then my foot twisted and I fell down. What else could happen?"

    "It''s as simple as that?" she questioned.

    "Yes, what else would be there?"

    Raelle didn''t believe his words for a second. No, she didn''t think he was lying but she also knew him well enough to say that he wasn''t seeing the situation from the right angle. She needed to do something about this.

    "The security team will stay with you for now."

    "What?!" Hyson almost yelled at the top of his lungs. "You brought these babysitters for me? I don''t need them!"

    "Stop behaving like a baby then," replied Raelle and Hyson instantly went on mute mode. "Let me look into this situation for now and I''ll tell you where we are going from this."

    Hyson frowned at her words. He actually understood her meaning loud and clear, "Elle, why are you taking this so seriously? It was just an ident. I''m telling you."

    "idents don''t just happen, Hyson," responded Raelle. "You should stay out of it. Just focus on recuperating."

 Chapter 204 - Cold Mummy

    Hyson heaved a long sigh before saying, "Even if I insist, you won''t stop. Am I right or am I right?"

    "You know the answer to that yourself," replied Raelle.

    Hyson contemted something and his gaze involuntarily shifted towards Xiang Weimin before he said in a small voice, "You won''t like it here. So, just don''te yourself."

    "I wasn''t nning on making a visit myself," told Raelle. "Even if I wanted to, I have a husband who won''t allow me to."

    "When did you ever need permission to do something?" asked Hyson, feeling unustomed to it a little. After all, Raelle Xiang always did whatever came to her mind. She even had ways to manipte her own grandfather''s decisions. How could she just follow something blindly?

    "I never did," answered Raelle and thought back to the look on Shui Xian''s face when he came to pick her up from the office today. It felt different. She never had someone picking her up from work. She was unustomed to it as well. But it still felt good when he opened his arms to embrace her. "But it feels good to listen to someone."

    Hyson''s lips curled up in a knowing smile. It seemed Master Xian''s charms had been working quite well. "Ellie, did you hear that someone else was stuck in the snow with me?"

    Raelle took a moment before she answered, "Do you think anyone dares to hide anything from me?"

    "Then you must also know who he is?"

    "I do," was Raelle in reply. "But what does that have to do with me? I can already tell that if you''d been alone, you''d have at least waited longer before calling for help. It''s because you wanted to save someone else, that''s why you acted so soon."

    Hyson grinned like a fool. Indeed, it was hard to hide anything from her.

    "Hyson, whatever his identity is, it shouldn''t matter to you. It doesn''t concern us. Don''t forget. He is just as much a stranger to me as he is to you. So, don''t go on feeling weird every time you look at him."

    Hyson''s mouth opened slightly in disbelief, "Hey! My little robot, what happened to you? I know you can always read my thoughts buttely, you''re getting good at even predicting everything regarding me. It''s kinda scary."

    Hyson already knew that the security team that Raelle assigned to her would send a detailed description of the situation here. And they''d definitely not omit the detail that he actually saved a soldier as well. After that, it wasn''t difficult to find out about the said soldier who had his information recorded in the hospital just during the examination.

    Apart from that, Hyson also knew Raelle wouldn''t react to the information that the soldier he saved was actually her own elder brother, Xiang Weimin. It was exactly as Raelle just said, they were nothing more than strangers. The only thing they had inmon was the blood running through their veins.

    But who said blood was enough to form a strong bond? He had no blood rtion with Raelle at all. Yet he could im that he was the closest to Raelle. And he even had the strongest bonding with her as well. Even Shui Xian couldn''t reallypare to him. After all, he knew her the longest, and being with her, he had also developed a lot of her habits.

    "My hubby would like to talk to you," said Raelle and passed the phone to Shui Xian.

    Shui Xian only learned about Hyson''s situation when he went to pick up Raelle from the office. And even though she had her expressionless face intact, he could still tell that she wasn''t feeling good about this situation. She even insisted it wasn''t an ident.

    Now that they sat in their lounge waiting for dinner, he naturally heard the conversation between these best friends.

    "Xian Ge!" Hyson called out excitedly like a kid.

    "Yue Fai, you okay?"

    "I''m fine."

    "What exactly happened?"

    "Nothing much. I just lost my way and fell down. It''s just your wife who ims there is more to it. Usually, she always follows logic but now, her logic has no basis."

    Shui Xian gazed at his wife before saying, "She won''t be reassured until she learns about what really happened."

    "I know that," replied Hyson. "I just don''t want to make this matter bigger."

    Shui Xian''s brows knitted up slightly. Since Hyson said it like that it meant even he knew something was about this incident. But just because he didn''t want to make this matter blow up, he was insisting on calling it just an ident.

    "You don''t think about all of that and focus on getting better," answered Shui Xian.

    Hyson hummed in response. They talked for about five minutes before Hyson asked to talk to Raelle again.

    "What is it now?"

    Hyson pressed his lips together and took a moment to say, "Thank you!"

    "What did you just say?"

    "I said thank you!" Hyson repeated himself impatiently.

    "What''s with this thank you?" inquired Raelle.

    "Thank you for saving me today," said Hyson. "If you hadn''t gifted me this watch two years ago, I''m sure I''d still be stuck there. So, thank you very much."

    Raelle didn''t know why she didn''t like hearing it. Hyson had never said thanks to her. At least, not like this. He always either sounded yful or he joked about it. But he never had been this serious about it.

    "Youe back home if you don''t want to recuperate there."

    Hyson smiled at how she changed the topic. That was so not like her. She never avoided any situation and yet she was avoiding his ''thank you.'' How amusing!

    "I''ll let you know if I''ming back or not," answered Hyson.

    Even after the call hung up, the smile was still etched on Hyson''s face as he stared at the phone screen. He called one of his new babysitters oopsie! He meant his bodyguards and said, "Find me aptop with an inte connection. I want to talk to my mum."

    "Yes, Young Master!"

    After giving instructions, Hyson looked around the ward to find a ce to use as the background for the video call with his motherter on. After all, if she saw him in the hospital, she might faint right there and then. He couldn''t afford that for now.

    But it was a good thing that this two-person ward was actually the best in this hospital and looked more like a luxury hotel suite than a hospital room. It made it easier for him to hide where he was for now. Then he looked down at his hospital gown and frowned.

    "Get me a new set of clothes as well." Then he looked at Xiang Weimin who had been too quiet during this time. Hyson even thought he had gone to sleep but he found Xiang Weimin staring out the window in silence.

    "Lieutenant, aren''t you tired?"

    Xiang Weimin looked back at Hyson, "Not really."

    "Do you want me to inform your family or someone?"

    Xiang Weimin shook his head, "The hospital has already contacted the base. You don''t have to worry about me."

    Hyson recalled something and said, "I heard you had been stuck in snow for over 24 hours." Seeing how Xiang Weimin nodded, Hyson shuddered, "I hate cold. I can''t even imagine what you must have gone through. And you even survived through it. That''s a marvel." Taking a pause, he went on, "It seems if I didn''t identally fell on top of you, you''d have no way out of there. And you could have died out there."

    "Indeed, I''d have been dead."

    Hyson looked displeased with his calm tone as he said, "I really hate it when people talk about death so calmly as if it''s no big deal."

    Xiang Weimin smiled at him, "I signed my death will before getting on the jet. That means, I knew I could die out there and yet I went out. My life is insignificant before millions of people who could have suffered at the hands of our enemy."

    "Patriotic spirit," muttered Hyson. "I''m also quite loyal. It''s just that my loyalties are with my family."

    Hyson didn''t know why he was talking to Xiang Weimin even after recognizing him. He just knew he couldn''t stay quiet for a long period of time. He had to talk especially now when he was so far away from home.

    "By the way, it seems I owe you my life now," said Xiang Weimin surprising Hyson. "There is a snowstorm outside." Hyson''s eyes widened and he finally noticed the situation outside the room. "It''s not that big here but if we had been stuck there until now, no one would ever even find our corpse."

    Hyson gulped visibly. It seemed he really had to thank Raelle even more sincerely. She really saved him in the nick of the time or else... He would have be a cold mummy!

 Chapter 205 - Difficult For Him

    Even after the call with Hyson, Shui Xian could see Raelle making several other calls to other people. But all of it had the same content. Whatever she was up to had to do with Hyson.

    He''d be wrong if he said, he wasn''t envious of Hyson at this moment. And no, it wasn''t because of Raelle care for him. He already figured out the value of Hyson in her life. He was still envious of this friendship he never got to experience himself.

    He had friends. In fact, he was one of the most popr guys back in the days. He had as many suitors as his friends. But looking back now, everyone just drifted apart somewhere along the way. He didn''t even realize when things started changing. But by the time he realized it, everything had changed. Even the people he called friends had already changed.

    His ex-wife was also once his friend. They say best friends make the best life partners than howe his marriage was such a failure? He didn''t just lose a wife but he also a friend. It was a lot more painful.

    And it also made him reluctant to make friends. It''d be pointless anyway.

    But now that he came across Raelle and Hyson, he truly wished he had friends like these two. Raelle could be described as anti-social and she only made one friend in life who was Hyson and yet that one friend was enough. No, in fact, Hyson was more than enough.

    "What are you thinking about?" asked Raelle as she finally turned off her phone and sat down beside him.

    Shui Xian supported his head with his fist while his elbow was perched on the backrest of the sofa. His eyes were trained on her face as he answered, "I was thinking what if I had a friend like you in my life. Would I have crumbled down as I did?"

    Raelle thought about it before saying, "I might not be able to answer that. But if I had been your friend, I''d do my best to be there for you. Even if I couldn''t help you from crumbling down but I''d have done my best to gather all your scattered pieces to hold them together and put them back together."

    Shui Xian''s lips tilted up at her answer. He lifted his hand to y with a strand of her hair as he added, "Now, I really wish I had a friend like you."

    Raelle was silently observing his expressions. "I don''t usually do friendship but I don''t mind being a friend to you."

    Shui Xian chuckled, "You''re my wife."

    "Just like there is no rule that states that you can''t pursue your wife or date her, there is no such rule that ims that you can''t be friends with your wife."

    Shui Xian brushed the bridge of her nose with his hooked finger and said, "You really know how to make use of my words against me."

    Raelle didn''t deny it, "That is why you should be careful of what you say. Words are the most dangerous weapon in the world."

    Shui Xian paused as something from the past came into his mind and he bit his bottom lip before smiling sadly, "You''re right. Words are treacherous of them all. Especially when those words are spoken by someone you trusted with all your heart."

    He was talking from experience. Once he was also broken by words. Perhaps, his divorce alone wouldn''t have hurt as much as it did because of the words that had been exchanged. He could never forget them. Neither that moment nor those words that pierced his heart and made him bleed.

    The worst of that time was the fact that he had to nurse those wounds all alone. He couldn''t even show those wounds to his father whom he had already hurt way too much. And he also wanted to appear to be strong before his father, so he chose to hide all those wounds and never truly allowed himself to nurse those wounds.

    He just got busy to the point that he couldn''t remember that pain any longer. Although it seemed like the wounds on his heart had scabbed long ago, it wasn''t really true. He knew how fleshy those wounds were even now. Just a simple reminder from Raelle''s words would poke at that scab and the wound would start bleeding. And now, he was actually able to feel the pain.

    He extended his hand to hold Raelle''s hand and smiled at her. He really felt like it was a blessing that he didn''t have to go through this pain all alone. If Raelle was the reason he was remembering the painful memories, she was the reason he was able to grow above that pain now. And it was a beautiful feeling.

    "By the way, I''d love to have you as a friend. In fact, it''d be my honor."

    Raelle noticed the way his eyes had dimmed before sparkling again when he looked at her. There was something in his eyes that she wasn''t able to read. She might never been as keen on figuring out someone''s thoughts as she was at this moment to learn what was going through his mind. What exactly could make his mood drop to the lowest in a second and bring it back to the peak in the next second?

    However, even with all those thoughts, she still held up her hand towards him, "Then I wee you in my life, my new friend."

    Shui Xian chuckled at her and shook his head at her before he shook her hand, "I have never gotten such a warm wee in my life. I''m touched." He took a pause but didn''t let go of her hand even now as he kept rubbing the back of her hand with his thumb pad. "Although I know I have a capable wife, let me know if there is something I can help you with."

    "What are you referring to?"

    "I''m talking about Yue Fai. Whatever you''re up to, let me know if there is anything that I can do."

    Raelle nodded her head and told him, "For now, you don''t have to concern yourself with it. First, I need to learn about the whole situation. Only after learning about it can decide what to do next."

    "How are you so certain that it wasn''t just an ident?"

    Raelle looked down at their joined hands as she answered, "Hyson falling down can be an ident but him losing his way can''t be. It''s true that he has a slight problem with directions however, he doesn''t have any problem with his memory at all. He only loses his way when he is mentally somewhere else. He can even rival my own memory but his problem is that he gets distracted very easily."

    Shui Xian nodded his head, he also noticed how Hyson could get distracted in the blink of an eye. He was like a kid, hyperactive. He has to have something to do at all times or he won''t feel at ease at all. That''s just how Hyson was. That was also the reason why even in the face of adversity he could find time to joke with himself.

    If Hyson hadn''t run into Xiang Weimin in the snow, he might have started talking to the trees to keep himself busy. That''s exactly how Hyson was.

    "Then you''re suspecting that someone gave him the wrong directions?"

    Raelle nodded, "I don''t just suspect that. I know someone intentionally gave him the wrong directions. He just didn''t bother checking with others in his excitement. You see, when ites to his mother, Hyson bes blind. Since he knew he''d be able to talk to his mother if he followed the directions, he would have done exactly that."

    "But why would anyone do it to him?" was Shui Xian''s real question. He didn''t think Hyson was the kind of a person who could have gotten himself into trouble with others. And that too to the extent that someone would want to harm him.

    "That''s exactly what I''m gonna find out. Who did it and why?" She looked into his eyes as she went on, "Some people need to learn there''ll always be consequences of their actions. If someone dared to y a joke on Raelle Xiang''s best friend then they should know that Raelle Xiang can also y some jokes. But that''s different that when I make a joke, people don''t end up with augh."

    "You''re giving off a scary vibe," said Shui Xian. He wasn''t just saying it, he could practically feel it. Usually, she gave off a really harmless vibe. And eventually, she was still able to strike a deadly shot. But now that she did give off a eerie vibe, he wonder what was about to happen.

    He suddenly thought of the Hyson''s movie''s director and hoped that she wasn''t involved in this whole matter in any way. Otherwise, it''ll get really difficult for him.

 Chapter 206 - Like Ellie

    That night Hyson spent an hour talking to his mother whom he hadn''t seen in days. But seeing her brightplexion and cheerful expressions, Hyson felt great in his heart. That became all the more reason for him to hide what happened with him.

    He rarely hid things from his mother and lying was even more impossible. But today, he had to hide it because he didn''t want her to worry.

    Perhaps, unconsciously he believed that his mother wasted his youth and dreams on him. Even though Mother Yue never said anything regarding this, he still felt it in his heart. He had seen his mother''s talent. She could have been a renowned personality in the world but she chose to be just a mother to him.

    Hyson could never forget how his mother worked to raise him when he was still a baby. Thinking back to what she had gone through, he couldn''t help feeling distressed for her.

    He wasn''t naive enough to believe that his mother didn''t give up everything just for him. After all, even an idiot could see that Mother Yue came from a noble family. No matter how disheveled she looked or how dull clothes she wore, it could never dull her aura.

    He knew his existence must have been the reason his mother had to go through so many hardships. And although he didn''t want to feel guilty, he still did. And that''s why he tried to earn money as soon as possible. He wanted to allow her to live carefreely again.

    And now seeing how Mu Chenyan was able to bring that cheerful personality out of her, he was happy.

    ''Why are you smiling like a fool?'' Mother Yue asked with the hand signs.

    Hyson''s smile widened as he replied softly, "Because I''m happy to see Mum."

    Mother Yue shook her head at him and signed, ''Fool!''

    Hyson chuckled at her but didn''t say anything.

    ''I heard it''s really cold in there?'' Hyson nodded at her question. ''Wear warm clothes and don''t catch a cold. Try drinking more hot water, you don''t like cold anyway.''

    Hyson continued to nod to whatever she said. He didn''t mind agreeing with all her words. It had always been like that. He always thought if he was a sensible kid and listened to everything his mother said, it''d make her happy. He grew up with time but this belief of his never changed even now.

    He still didn''t realize that his mother would be happy as long as he was happy.

    Meanwhile, Xiang Weimin suddenly turned over and saw Hyson having a video call. Since Hyson was using AirPods, one couldn''t really tell that the person on the side had been speaking through hand signs. But what caught Xiang Weimin''s attention was the way Hyson had crossed his fingers when he lied that he was doing fine.

    He didn''t know why but Xiang Weimin''s lips tilted upward slightly. He already felt like Hyson was like an innocent kid and now he was certain.

    "Mum, stop worrying about me and enjoy yourself!"

    When Xiang Weimin heard that, his smile suddenly turned a little gloomy. He suddenly wondered if his own mother was worried about him right now or not? But then he snorted at his own thoughts, it''d be a surprise if his mother even remembered that she had a son like him.

    He turned his head away and closed his eyes.

    Although Hyson was talking in a very low voice to not disturb Xiang Weimin''s rest, he didn''t know that being a soldier had made Xiang Weimin''s senses quite keen. He could still hear him clearly.

    Hyson finally said goodbye to his mother and went to his bed to sleep with a big smile on his face. He talked with Raelle, Mother Yue, even said hello to Mu Chenyan and at the end, sent a message to Grandfather Xiang since he didn''t want to disturb his sleep at this time. And since he covered all the people he called family, he was in a good mood.

    Looking at Xiang Weimin, Hyson frowned slightly, "Did I wake you, Lieutenant?"

    Xiang Weimin opened his eyes to look at him and shook his head, "No. I just can''t seem to sleep."

    "I thought the doctor gave you a sedative to rx," said Hyson.

    "He did. But it''s not working for now," replied Xiang Weimin. Hyson nodded while Xiang Weimin took a pause and continued, "I didn''t think you''d lie to your mother."

    "When did I lie?" Hyson avoided his eyes when he questioned.

    "Didn''t you tell her you''re fine?" Before Hyson could open his mouth to defend himself, he went on, "ording to the doctors, you''re anything but fine."

    "You should be worried about yourself, Lieutenant. With your level of injuries, you''ll have to spend at least a month or two on the bed."

    Xiang Weimin didn''t seem to care as he replied, "It isn''t that bad. I still think I got lucky to even keep my life this time around." He looked over at Hyson as he added, "But you... I feel like you''re really amazing. You didn''t even grimace in pain."

    "You didn''t either," retorted Hyson. "And don''t tell me, it''s because you''re a soldier. At the end of the day, you''re also a human-like me made of flesh and bones. Soldiers aren''t made of steel."

    Since Xiang Weimin couldn''t seem to refute his words, he chose to not continue this topic. Soon, the room fell into silence and in this quietness, both of them finally went to sleep.

    Early in the morning, Hyson''s sleep was disturbed when he heard a loud voice saluting someone.

    "Keep it down!" He heard Xiang Weimin rebuking someone. "Can''t you see someone is resting?"

    Hyson groaned inwardly. What was the point now? He was already awake. He opened his eyes and was slightly taken aback to see the room filled with so many people dressed in army uniforms.

    "All of you wait outside," said Xiang Weimin and only allowed one person to stay in the room. "Adjutant Zhang, I didn''t expect to see you here."

    "As soon as we learned about your situation, I was given the task to bring you back to the Base safely," answered the man who was called Adjutant Zhang.

    Xiang Weimin noticed Hyson putting a pillow behind his back to support himself and pursed his lips before apologizing, "I''m sorry for disturbing your sleep."

    Hyson waved his hand offhandedly, "I''m not that unused to waking up at odd hours. So, it''s alright." Hyson took a moment to inquire, "You''re leaving?" Xiang Weimin raised his brows at him in question and Hyson borated, "I mean as the Lieutenant Colonel, yourmander must want you to receive the best treatment and recuperate in a Military Hospital."

    Xiang Weiminughed a little before saying, "More like my father wants me to get back as soon as possible."

    Adjutant Zhang took a moment to look at Hyson carefully this time around. Earlier, he had barely taken note of his presence but now he couldn''t ignore his presence. After all, this stranger actually managed to make Lieutenant Colonel talk in a gentle manner.

    Adjutant Zhang had been with Xiang Weimin''s father for a long time and he was also someone who watched Xiang Weimin grow. Since he grew up in the barracks, Xiang Weimin''s character was influenced by the tough-looking soldiers. He always had a somber look on his face that showed his stringent personality.

    The only time Adjutant Zhang saw a gentle look on Xiang Weimin''s face was when he was facing his sister. Apart from that, he always treated others in a serious manner. He was definitely not like his father who had a vivacious personality even though he was a General.

    "Father?" repeated Hyson softly. "He must be worried about you a lot."

    Xiang Weimin neither agreed nor disagreed with his words and just smiled at him in return.

    Soon, Xiang Weimin''s discharge formalities werepleted and a Military helicopter was waiting on the rooftop of the hospital to take him from here. Before leaving, Xiang Weimin moved the wheelchair close to Hyson, "How should I contact you?"

    "Contact me?" questioned Hyson and saw him nodding. "Why would you even want to contact me?"

    "You saved my life," answered Xiang Weimin matter-of-factly. "I owe you big time. So, I would like to do something for you in return."

    "Don''t get me wrong but I only helped you because I could and because I wanted to. It had no other meaning."

    "I know," answered Xiang Weimin. "A person like you really is straightforward about what he wants and what he doesn''t want. But I still would like to return this favor in some way."

    Xiang Weimin asked the adjutant to give him a phone and asked Hyson to add his contact details.

    "When you get better, let me know," said Xiang Weimin. "I''d take you out on a meal."

    Hyson didn''t reply to him and silently watched him leave. After the silence came back to the room, Hyson stared at the door as he whispered, "He is a lot like Ellie." He shuddered at the thought for some reason.

 Chapter 207 - Somewhat Human

    "Hey, you! Babysitter no 2!"

    The man who was addressed as ''babysitter no 2'' looked up at Hyson respectfully. "Yes, Young Master."

    "I''m bored. Talk to me. I don''t like silence and that stiff face of yours. Smile a little. Don''t you know such a serious face has a bad influence on a child''s mind?"

    The group of people around him, all controlled their facial expressions. They were really amused at the way Hyson just addressed himself as a child. It was as if, he truly believed himself to be a child.

    ording to his orders, the group of babysitters *Cough!* bodyguards tried to smile for him but looking at their scary smiles, Hyson scoffed, "Forget it. My innocent heart of a child would be scared silly with that kind of a smile."

    Putting his arms behind his head, Hyson leaned back and looked around before yawning. He was really getting bored so he started whistling. He couldn''t use the phone orptop because he was instructed to rest and these babysitters were controlling the time he could spend online. He was born in the generation who loved to roam around on social media!

    You can''t expect him to sit still. After getting tired of whistling, Hyson recalled a song he recently heard and started humming it. And slowly, the humming turned into the lyrics...

    ??Let''s go back to the summer night

    When we met eyes, it''s like a movie line

    Kissin'' underneath the city lights

    But now you''reying in another guy''s arms

    ''Cause I''m all gone ??

    The timbre of his voice was slightly husky as he sang softly. But it was soothing and magical even though he was just singing as a means to curb his boredom. Even the men standing around him couldn''t help rxing a little with the sound of his voice.

    ??But when you look in his eyes

    Do you think of mine?

    And when you look at that smile

    Do I cross your mind?

    I know in your head

    You see me instead

    ''Cause he looks a lot like I did back then

    Baby don''t lie

    He''s just a lookalike ?? (Song: Lookalike, Singer: Conan Grey)

    Hearing a bit of sadness in his tone could make anyone feel emotions that they might have buried after a breakup.

    *p! p! p!*

    Hyson looked towards the door when he heard the sound of pping and found Cloe standing there staring at him.

    "If I didn''t know any better, I''d think you''re singing from experience," said Cloe.

    "What are you doing here?" asked Hyson in surprise. Suddenly it hit him, "Don''t tell me, Ellie sent you over here? To do what?"

    Cloe smiled at him and instructed the others to leave the room. Then she sat down beside Hyson, "Of course, it''s to check up on you."

    "I have enough babysitters here," said Hyson in displeasure.

    "I knew you had a beautiful voice but hearing it live really broke my heart."

    "Broke your heart?" repeated Hyson in confusion.

    "You reminded me of myst boyfriend," answered Cloe. "I hate him! Bastard! Moron!"

    Hyson chuckled softly at her words before saying, "If you hate him so much, why remember him?"

    Cloe looked into his eyes, "If I forgot him, I''ll have to forget the foolishness of falling in love with him either. And I don''t want to do that. It''s a reminder I can''t be a fool in love again." She sighed out bitterly, "Also, being a woman, I do want that cheater to remember me! I want him to see what he lost! And I do want him to look for me in his current partner but he''ll never be able to do so! Because I ain''t her!"

    "Wow! That''s some emotions you''ve been burying in your heart," remarked Hyson in surprise.

    Cloe scratched her chin sheepishly, "Sorry! I got too aggressive."

    Hyson waved his hand, "I don''t mind listening. In fact, I was certainly waiting for someone like you who could give mepany. So, tell me what exactly happened?"

    Cloe took a deep breath and told him, "We met in high school. We started dating in high school and even went to the same college. We even used to live together. But in our final year, he cheated on me with someone I called a friend. So I just took my self-respect and walked out the door. Rather than keeping a rtionship, I wanted to keep my self-respect."

    Hyson tsked at her, "You''ve had it tough."

    Cloeughed out a little before adding, "In fact, I''m actually proud of what I did. Before moving out, I took all the spices that I bought from his kitchen."

    "Huh? Spices? Why?"

    Cloe gave him a sly look, "He can look for another bitch to spice up his life. Because that bitch ain''t gonna be me!"

    "Pfft!" Hysonughed out so loud that his internal injuries started hurting. However, he still couldn''t stopughing. "Elle was right. You''re really fun to be around."

    "Chief said I''m fun to be around?" Cloe questioned in shock.

    Hyson nodded his head, "You''re exactly like she told me about you. Or maybe a little crazier than that. But you''re really fun to be around. I like you."

    Cloe looked at his pale face and felt happy that she managed to make him spice even though she was mentioning the most bitter time of her life. Well, at least, her breakup was funny enough to keep him entertained.

    "I''m sorry, I didn''t mean tough at your pain," said Hyson. "I know that breakup must have been hard for you. After all, you never dated after that. It shows in some way, that rtionship is still holding you back."

    Cloe was taken aback to see how he understood her. No wonder he was Raelle Xiang''s best friend. She shrugged her shoulders saying, "You canugh. I don''t mind. It''s been too long. He is even my sister''s husband now. So, I really don''t give a fuck!"

    Hyson''s jaw dropped at her revtion, "Your ex-boyfriend not only cheated on you with your friend, he even married your sisterter on?! What kind of sicko is that?!" He took a pause and added, "Oh, man! Your life is even more dramatic than an online novel!"

    Cloe smiled at him, "Novelse from reality, Hyson. In fact, sometimes reality is a lot more ugly than the stories we read. In novels anything can be romanticized, even violence can be means to fall in love but there is nothing romantic about violence. Even an affair is called true love. But in reality, the person who got cheated on, only that person would know how much pain they had to go through."

    "I heard you love watching romantic movies," Hyson pointed out.

    "I do," replied Cloe. "But that''s just a means to escape reality. As I said, the reality is quite bitter."

    Hyson pursed his lips, "Maybe I shouldn''t have started this topic."

    He really didn''t mean to hurt her by bringing up her past but he didn''t expect her past to be so dramatic. He already knew what kind of a family she had and now, on top of that all of this. He really didn''t know what to say about this.

    Cloe shook her head, "Okay! Let''s forget about this all now. I''m here on a mission."

    "Mission?"

    "Yes!" nodded Cloe. "My mission is to find the culprit. I have to find the person because of whom you ended up in the hospital. So, let''s start from the start and tell me in detail what happened."

    "Um... About that... Mmm..." Hyson was hesitating, not wanting to continue this matter.

    "You can stop dawdling," said Cloe. "Even if you don''t want to pursue this matter, Chief won''t let this go." She took a brief pause and added, "You know I''ve spent years with her. And yet, this was my very first time seeing her leaving an important meeting halfway through. I was shocked. I always believed, she did everything for profits and benefits. She would never take a loss. And that is why I concluded that she is kind of heartless. But now, that belief is shaken, Hyson. For the very first time, I have seen her giving a reaction."

    Hyson knew Raelle better than Cloe, so how could he not understand her words?

    "I think she is overreacting," he said.

    Cloe shook her head at his words, "I don''t care. At least, it''s a reaction. She never even reacts when people hurl abuses at her face. She finds it troublesome to act against people. Especially since it won''t bring her any benefits. But this time, she is willing to overreact for your sake. It finally feels like she is somewhat human."

    Hyson smiled at Cloe, "She is human. In fact, she is a lot more human than you think. And trust me, she isn''t heartless either. If anything, my best friend has the most beautiful heart in the world."

    Cloe was stunned. Not because of his words but seeing the tears that had brimmed up in his eyes when he talked about Raelle.

 Chapter 208 - â€™Incidentâ€™

    Cloe took a moment before asking, "Are those tears of pride? Sadness? Or something else?"

    Hyson wiped the corners of his eyes, "I''ve always been proud of her. That won''t change. And yes, sometimes looking at her does make me feel sad as well. I won''t deny that either. As for the tears in my eyes... I think it''s just because I feel blessed right now."

    Cloe silently stared at his face. She had to agree, he should be feeling blessed. It wasn''t every day one would find a friend like Raelle Xiang. And she could say that with experience. Since she had always been surrounded by scheming people in her life, it feels kind offorting to meet simple people like Raelle and Hyson.

    There was no disguise in their friendship. Even their souls wereid bare before each other.

    And that was the reason why Hyson called Raelle his soulmate friend.

    "You know when I was first chosen to be Chief''s assistant, Miss Mu said the same words as you did," began Cloe thoughtfully. "She also said Raelle isn''t heartless. She has the most beautiful heart in the world. I obviously didn''t believe her at that time."

    "And now?" wondered Hyson.

    "Now..." Cloe licked her lips and contemted a little, "I''m not sure. I spent years with her but I honestly can''t tell what she is like. People assume that she is the ''x'' you have to find the value of but in fact, she is ''a''. Her value is always constant.[1]"

    Hyson stared at her wide-eyed as he processed her words. ording to her statement, Raelle had a constant personality. People assumed she''ll keep changing but in fact, she had never changed. It was because her thinking was straightforward that it often took people by surprise.

    Heughed out at her saying, "It seems Ellie really got under your skin. I can''t believe you used algebra to describe her. That is something I expect from her but you?" He shook his head because he really couldn''t believe that she followed Raelle.

    "You know, Chief says you are like a sticky person who forcefully imed himself to be her best friend."

    Hysonughed again, "I know. She isn''t wrong either."

    "Huh?"

    "When I first met her..." Hyson didn''t continue that statement. He didn''t want to say out loud the whole scenario of how he met her. He often said he was attracted to her because she was beautiful. In a way, he wasn''t wrong either.

    But what really made him taken notice of that little girl walking barefoot aimlessly was the way her white dress was stained with blood. The red stains of blood had painted her white dress like a flower was blooming in its glory. She looked so unperturbed that Hyson couldn''t help himself getting attracted towards her.

    That was the first time they met and the very first time he told her, ''Red is your color.''

    Remembering the way her nk eyes stared back at his face, Hyson was pulled out of his daydreaming. He faced Cloe and continued, "Actually forget how we met. It''s that after that I wanted to be her friend. However, she kept saying that she doesn''t make friends. I never had friends before either and neither did I want to make any. But she just became my stubbornness. So, when she was going back to Country G, she challenged me. She said if I managed to reach her on my own. She will be my friend."

    "Really?" Cloe was intrigued by the story. "What did you do then?"

    Hyson shrugged his shoulders, "Nothing. I just joined the biggest pianopetition. The first ce winner would get a chance to study in Country G on full schrship."

    Cloe was surprised to hear that, "And you got it?"

    Hyson had a smug look, "I have the world''s best piano teacher, how can I lose? Of course, I won."

    "You had some determination to be her friend," said Cloe in admiration.

    "Actually, looking back, I feel like she knew I''d get to her. You know, I''ve never been serious about anything in my life. That was the first time I was determined to do something. Maybe she just wanted to test my determination."

    Cloe took a deep breath and stood up, "It feels like I should also work hard. She''s expecting me to handle this matter and I''m gonna do just that!"

    As she turned to leave, Hyson called her, "Take care of yourself. And I''m sorry you have to work on a weekend for me."

    Cloe chuckled at him, "First of all, I took this job on my own. I wasn''t forced toe here. Secondly, do you have any idea how much I''m getting paid to work over this weekend?" Her reaction was quite exaggerated as she told him, "I mean she is always generous and always pays me double to work overtime even if it''s just for 5 minutes. But this time around, I''m getting ten times the normal amount. There are so many zeroes in my ount that I''m feeling like a small tycoon!"

    Hyson recalled what he heard about Cloe''s family and said, "Do you care about money so much because of your family?"

    Cloe paused when she heard that question. Her smile stiffened a little before she replied, "What else I can do? If I can get my parents'' love in exchange for money, isn''t it a worthwhile deal?"

    Hyson shook his head, "It isn''t. Because parents'' love isn''t that selfish."

    Cloe had nothing to say in reply to that. So, she stayed quiet and waved him goodbye.

    ....

    "Did you manage to contact her?" questioned Amiah as she looked at Sora who was pacing around the room restlessly. She hadn''t slept a wink whole night in worry.

    "I don''t want to talk to you right now, Mia. Just go away!"

    Amiah walked up and held her arm, "Sora, I have already told you that it has nothing to do with me."

    Sora pulled her arm out of her grasp and red at Amiah, "So what? Yes, maybe you aren''t directly involved but it''s a fact that you''re the reason. I brought him here. Do you have any idea what I''m going through right now? I was informed by someone that he is in a hospital and he is injured. Can you really say we aren''t responsible for it?"

    "I''m not saying that we aren''t responsible but what can we do? It''s your cousin who messed up. Why are you going after me like this?"

    Sora raised her hand to stop from continuing, "We can''t do anything certainly except wait for what''s toe."

    "What do you mean?" questioned Amiah with furrowed brows.

    "All our investors have backed out," responded Sora. "Expect for the money you and I brought to make this movie, we have nothing else."

    Amiah was surprised to hear that but she soon calmed down and reasoned, "But that''s okay. We can manage. We have enough money of our own."

    Sora snorted at her, "Money isn''t the issue right now, Mia. The problem is, our film is being shelved. Even if we film it, it''ll never be able to reach cinemas."

    "Excuse me for intruding like this." Both Sora and Amiah looked towards the door where an unfamiliar face greeted them. "But I have to say, you''re absolutely right. You''ll never be able to screen your movie."

    Amiah looked at this stranger and asked, "And who are you?"

    "Oh, it seems I forgot to introduce myself. Well, hi! I''m Cloe Jones." Cloe was holding her ever so sparkling smile on her face. She didn''t care about the reaction of the two women before her. She turned to Sora and said, "Miss Sora, how about you tell me where your cousin Xu Hua is?"

    Something clicked in Sora''s mind when she heard Cloe''s question and answered truthfully, "I don''t know. I haven''t been able to contact her since yesterday." She looked at Cloe''s expressions and added, "Is this about Hyson?"

    Cloe gave her a smile that didn''t look like a smile, "It seems you''re quite smart. It is indeed rted to Hyson."

    Amiah was angered to hear that, "So, you''re the one behind us losing our investments? But do you really think you can stop us by ying these games?" She scoffed, "Besides, just because of one incident, you want to ruin every single person who had been working hard for this movie? Just how selfish you people can be?"

    Cloe stared at Amiah and replied, "I haven''t started ying the game yet. But now I will. That one incident that doesn''t mean anything to you almost cost Hyson his life." Amiah was stunned to her ce while Cloe continued, "You haven''t seen how selfish I can get. And mark my words, as long as I''m here, I''ll never let this movie reach the screens. You all will have to pay for this ''incident.'' And I''ll make you pay for sure!"

    [1] So, to rify this statement. Let''s refresh your memory of basic Algebra. If we have an equation, x+3=4; In this equation, ''x'' is a variable. You always have to find the value of ''x.'' But that 4 and 3 are constants. Their values remain the same.

 Chapter 209 - Canâ€™t Go Against

    Although Cloe often did think in a casual way and spoke too carelessly, however, one couldn''t overlook her capabilities. After all, if she managed to promote from an assistant to the VP, she must have some ability to get that position.

    When Cloe first joined Raelle at work, she was indeed a little lost in life. She just had gone through a breakup and it left her exhausted. But she learned to grow when she watched someone like Raelle who was so young and yet held authority and power.

    Cloe often cursed Raelle for being harsh but she also admired her Chief a lot. And she never even realized when her admiration allowed her to actually absorb Raelle''s aura. She could get really overbearing when Raelle wasn''t around. But with her Chief around, Cloe was like a littlemb. She only bared her teeth when Raelle wasn''t around her.

    Currently, the situation demanded her to act overbearing. And she did it!

    And her powerful aura was really too much for both Sora and Amiah.

    Amiah''s fists clenched in anger as she red at Cloe, "Don''t be so arrogant! You don''t know who I am!"

    Cloe''s treacherous smile was still lingering on her face, "Do I look scared?" She stepped so close to Amiah that thetter felt suffocated with her overwhelming presence, "You might have a Princess Syndrome but I''m here on Queen''s orders." She pretended to dust off the dirt from Amiah''s shoulder as she added in a low voice, "Believe it or not, people do kneel before my Queen."

    With Cloe''s personality and way of doing things, it was obvious that she''d have gotten all the details regarding these women around her. Her informationwork was wide and adding on the power of Xiang Conglomerate behind her, it was way too easy to get any information that she needed.

    The reason why she said Amiah had a Princess Syndrome was that she truly believed it. After she learned the details about her, she was certain that was the best way to describe Amiah''s condition.

    Cloe had turned to Sora as she said, "Tell your uncle, he''ll be getting a surprise on Monday. And he should thank his daughter, Xu Hua for that."

    Sora felt a chill run down her spine because of Cloe''s tone. She could tell that was a tant deration of war. There was no other way to define it. She could already tell Cloe wasn''t a simple character and that meant, her distant uncle was about to pay the price of his daughter''s foolishness.

    As Cloe turned to leave, Amiah said from behind, "I take your challenge." Cloe turned her head and her brow quirked up. "You can try all you want, I''ll prove you wrong. Now, this movie is my stubbornness as well. I''ll get it to screen. Let me see what you can do!"

    Cloeughed at her provocation, "Are you a teenager? You''re really impulsive and also have an explosive temper. My Chief would have fired you long ago if you had worked for her." She tsked. "But working with my Chief also needs some talent that you don''t have."

    "You don''t need to attack me personally! Just show me what you can do!"

    Cloe smirked at her and put her sunsses on before saying, "You both are wee to make a call to your brothers for help. Let''s see whether I win, or your stubbornness wins."

    Cloe had already walked out the door and closed the door behind her when Amiah threw a cushion at the door. She was frustrated and angry because of Cloe''s attitude towards her. She had never been treated like that even when she was just a rookie director. But Cloe dared to not only insult her but also threatened her. She couldn''t take it lying down!

    Sora ran out the door while Amiah picked up her phone to make a call.

    "Miss Jones!"

    Hearing that voice, Cloe turned around to look at Sora who hade after her.

    "Is there anything I didn''t make clear to you?"

    Sora shook her head, "It''s not that. I know you''re angry because of the ident with Hyson. I''m truly sorry for that."

    Cloe scoffed at that, "Your apology won''t change anything though. ording to what I heard, Hyson only joined this crew because of you, Miss Sora."

    Sora had been mulling in guilt sincest night. She bit her lip and asked, "Can you tell me where Hyson is? I mean, which hospital is it? I want to visit him." She looked at Cloe''s eyes and hurriedly added, "You don''t have to worry about anything. I won''t talk to him about the situation here. I just really want to see if he is okay."

    Cloe didn''t make it difficult for this writer who actually had a rather simple character than most people. Sora was happy to learn about the hospital and repeatedly thanked Cloe. Then she turned around and called her brother, "Bro, tell Uncle Xu to take care of his daughter! And if hees to you to ask for help on Monday, don''t pay attention. I don''t want such rtives anymore!" Before her brother could even ask what happened, she had already hung up the phone.

    Sora was just that kind of a decisive person. She always knew where to draw the line. She already didn''t like these rtives who only knew how to scheme, manipte and take advantage. She definitely didn''t want to allow Xu Hua to join the crew as Amiah''s assistant but that cousin insisted on how much she admired Director Jade and wanted to get this rare chance to work with her. Because of how they manipted her emotions, she had allowed her to join them but the result? Now, she was the one thrown in hell!

    ....

    On the other side, Shui Xian waszing around in the lounge when his phone rang. But since the phone was far and he didn''t feel like getting up, he didn''t n to take the call.

    Raelle came with some documents in her hand and her eyes fell on the phone ringing.

    "Hubby, your phone is ringing."

    "I know," replied Shui Xian. "But I don''t want to get up. Who is calling?"

    Raelle looked at the called id and replied, "Your sister is calling."

    "Then let it ring. She will stop calling when she will get tired."

    Raelle instead of following his words picked up his phone and passed it to him saying, "I think, you should take this call today."

    Shui Xian looked up at Raelle and asked, "Why?"

    "Just take it," answered Raelle and didn''t exin herself.

    However, Shui Xian''s heart already had a hunch. He took the call and asked, "What is it?"

    "Ge, I need your help!"

    Shui Xian looked at Raelle who was skimming through documents as she trotted towards the study and asked, "What did you do now?"

    "What do you mean by what did I do?" came the response from the other side. "Why don''t you ask what happened to me?"

    "Okay. Then tell me, what happened to you?"

    "Someone threatened me today and insulted me as well!"

    "Oh!" was the only response of Shui Xian.

    "Oh?" repeated his sister from the other side. "That''s all you''ve got to say?"

    "What else do you want me to say? Or should I ask, what do you want me to do for you?"

    "I want you to help me deal with that person obviously! Will you let just anyone insult your sister? Last time, your wife insulted me, and now this. Are you really not gonna do something for me?"

    Shui Xian rubbed his forehead as he asked, "Tell me the name of the person who insulted you."

    His sister felt relieved when she heard that. She knew her brother couldn''t be this indifferent towards her grievance. He''d make anyone pay for hurting her. He had always protected her, how could he not do it this time?

    "Her name is Cloe Jones. That''s all I know about her."

    Shui Xian paused and looked towards the closed door of the study before closing his eyes. His hunch turned out to be right. No wonder Raelle insisted he takes the call.

    He took a deep breath and answered, "I won''t be able to help you then."

    "What?!"

    "I said I can''t help you."

    "Ge! I''m your sister!"

    Shui Xian chuckled softly, "I really can''t understand you, Xiao Sying. When you left home, you insisted on changing your name and removed everything that could link your name with B¨¤. That''s why you''re called Amiah Jade now. And as Amiah Jade, you have nothing to do with Shui Family. Walking out of our lives, you said you''ll never ask for anything from our father."

    She clenched her jaw as she replied, "I''m asking you for help. Not your father."

    "It''s funny that you think whatever I have is because of me. What I have today is all because of B¨¤. I am nothing without my father. He is the reason why I exist. But you''re not ready for that discussion." He took a pause and went on, "Let me clear something for you, you asked for my help, I rejected you. First, because I don''t want to help you this time. Second, even if I want to I won''t be able to help you. You offended the wrong person this time."

    "Ge!"

    "This is why I used to warn you to be careful of your attitude. There are some people I can deal with as your brother but there are other people I can''t go against as well."

 Chapter 210 - Late Entry

    After disconnecting the call, Shui Xian looked towards the door of the study once again. He threw his phone on the sofa carelessly before standing up.

    Standing before the closed door of the study, Shui Xian was lost in thoughts. Even though originally this was his working space, he still knocked on the door before pushing the door open.

    Inside the study, Raelle was sitting on the recliner that was ced beside the window. She had been focused on studying the data on herptop but still lifted her eyes to look at Shui Xian who stepped inside.

    "Are you done with the phone call?" she questioned.

    "Hmm..." Shui Xian hummed in reply softly. "You knew?"

    Raelle''s fingers stopped, she saved the file and closed the lid of theptop. As she put theptop on the table beside her, she faced Shui Xian and answered, "If you''re referring to Director Amiah Jade being your sister, Shui Sying. Then... Yes! I do know about that."

    "Since when?"

    "B¨¤ showed me a family photo of yours a few days before leaving."

    Shui Xian nodded his head. "Did he tell you the whole situation?"

    "No," she answered while shaking her head. "He just told me that Shui Sying left home and never came back. She wanted to have nothing to do with him. And he also told me that she changed her name and currently is working as a director."

    Shui Xian didn''t know how to continue this conversation. He really didn''t know what else to say.

    "Do you want to help her?" Raelle questioned. "She certainly called to ask for your help. Didn''t she?"

    This was the question Shui Xian had a clear answer for. "I won''t be helping her this time around."

    Raelle looked into his eyes, "That''s good. I won''t like to fight with my husband."

    "Besides, even if I do agree to fight. I''d lose for sure."

    "Are you underestimating yourself, Hubby?"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "No. I''m just being realistic right now. I''m well aware of President Raelle''s power. Only a fool would want to get into a head-on fight with President Raelle. I''m a cautious person. I won''t be underestimating my wife''s capabilities."

    Shui Xian wasn''t being polite or humble around her. He did know what she was capable of. She had been working for almost a decade now. Her roots were too deep. He could stand against her but whether he''d win or not was apletely different matter.

    "I can''t let this matter go," said Raelle. "Whether your sister is directly involved or indirectly involved, I won''t let this go." She took a pause before adding, "In fact, your sister should be d I''m the one taking action this time. If Yanyan learned about this matter, I can''t guarantee you what will happen."

    Shui Xian stepped up to her side. cing a hand on her head, he said, "Last time I told you, she needs to learn the consequences of her words. This time she should learn the consequences of her actions as well. I really don''t n on helping her."

    "But you had been doing it," replied Raelle. "Although there is no doubt that she is a talented person, however, she is notorious for her temper. People like her can offend people at every step. The reason she had been having a smooth sailing is because of you. You had been helping her behind the scenes."

    "Are you trying to tell me that I''m the reason why she is like this?"

    "Not exactly but your help made her feel like she can do everything and get away with it. If you hadn''t done that, by now she would have learned that the world we live in is actually a cruel ce."

    Shui Xian couldn''t bring himself to deny her words. He indeed did help his sister on several asions. And saved her from a lot of scheming as well. While he thought he was helping her, in fact, he wasn''t really doing much help. Because of his actions, she grew unrestrained and started to think that she could do whatever she wanted.

    "Well, I didn''t have you before in my life to tell me what I am doing wrong," said Shui Xian.

    "Now, it''s my fault?"

    "Isn''t it? Who told you to make an entry sote in my life?" retorted Shui Xian yfully.

    "But I..." Raelle opened her mouth but didn''t continue. Shui Xian raised his brow at her incredulously. "I made the entry at the right time. If I came earlier, you wouldn''t even have a ce for me in your life."

    Shui Xian rubbed his temple, not wanting to respond to that. She really knew how to mess with him. He crouched down beside her and held her hands as he looked up at her face, "Do you know? B¨¤ usually never took interest in my personal life. But in my life, he had asked me to marry twice." Raelle didn''t know why he was telling her this at this time but she continued to listen carefully, "Strangely enough, both times he wanted me to marry you."

    "Me?" Raelle pointed at herself and Shui Xian nodded in reply. "When was the first time?"

    "When I was in college," replied Shui Xian.

    "How old was I back then?"

    "Probably 16 or 17," answered Shui Xian.

    Raelle nodded her head, "That was the time I joined thepany. It''s been a long time since then." She held Shui Xian''s gaze and went on, "Then that means, you''re the one at fault for myte entry into your life. If you had given me a chance earlier, we wouldn''t be sote."

    So, in the end, she managed to put the whole me on his head and Shui Xian was left gaping at her in disbelief. Eight out of ten times he had no way to refute her words and he was getting used to it as well. But that didn''t mean he liked this feeling at all!

 Chapter 211 - Cuddles

    "If it''s my fault," began Shui Xian after a thinking session with himself. "I should get punished for making such a blunder, no?"

    "Punishment?" repeated Raelle.

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "Yes, I should be punished."

    Raelle shook her head, "I don''t think so."

    "Why?"

    "Have you heard of the theory of the six degrees of separation?" Shui Xian frowned slightly as she borated, "It states that all people on average are six, or fewer, social connections away from each other. Let''s take you and me as an example. We have lived thousands of miles away from each other all our lives and yet, we have been connected because our families had been connected in some way." Shui Xian attentively listened to her and didn''t even disturb her as she continued, "Just like that all people on earth are somehow connected but there is a big possibility that you would never meet that person whom you''re connected to."

    "Your point is?"

    "My point is, you and I met at the time we were supposed to meet."

    "You could have just said that from the beginning."

    Raelle stared at him, "But I wanted to exin."

    Shui Xian pinched her nose, "I know." He took a moment to think about something before he asked, "Wifey, aren''t you tired of being an adult for so long?"

    "Why?"

    Shui Xian ced his palms against her cheeks and squished her face saying, "Because now I want you to be my baby."

    Raelle was left blinking at him while Shui Xian burst outughing at her reaction. She was really too amusing to him. He agreed with whatever she just said, it was true that they met when they were supposed to meet. He might have no been able to understand her so much if he had met her 10 years ago.

    And she was also right that he wouldn''t have been able to give her the ce she now has in his life. Or even in his heart.

    Shui Xian truly believed that he knew a lot about love. He was familiar with the process of falling in love. The excitement, anticipation, giddiness, all those emotions that love evoked, he had gone through it already.

    However, Raelle was making him question what he knew and what he didn''t know. Falling for her had no such excitement as it had been when he fell in love before. Instead, there was a calmness in his heart whenever he was around her. Although she left conflicted thoughts in his head, she brought a wave of peace to his heart.

    Being with her didn''t make him feel like he was losing his senses but everything about her felt natural. He was so naturallyfortable in her presence as if it was supposed to be that way.

    Shui Xian stood up and leaned over. His face was right in front of her face. With the tips of their noses touching, he asked, "Baby, do you want to cuddle?"

    Raelle''s brow raised just half an inch but since Shui Xian had read her expressionless face plenty of times, even that minute change didn''t escape his eyes. He looked amused as he continued to stare into her eyes.

    "I told you I''m not a baby."

    Shui Xian bumped his nose with her hers yfully, "You''re focusing on the wrong point again."

    "What should I be focusing on then?"

    Shui Xian pressed his lips against the side of her lips and in the same position with his lips pressed against her skin, he asked, "Do you want to cuddle?"

    "Why would I want to cuddle?"

    "Don''t girls love to cuddle when they are on periods?"

    "They do?" asked Raelle and Shui Xian nodded his head vigorously.

    Raelle thought about it before she opened her arms, "Okay. Let''s cuddle."

    The way she agreed with that straight face and asked him for cuddles made Shui Xian''s heart skip a beat. See! This was what he was talking about. She did things to his heart with her smallest actions that he didn''t even know was possible. In fact, he was the one who tried to tease her by asking that question but who knew his heart would be the one taking the blow when she agreed so adorably.

    Shui Xian hugged her and pulled her up from the recliner. With her wrapped around his body like a ko, he brought her to the lounge andid down on the sofa with her.

    "In fact, you''re the one who wanted cuddles, right?"

    Shui Xian was about to pick up the remote of the tv when she questioned and his hand paused. Clearing his throat, he said, "I was just thinking about you."

    "As if I''d believe that," she replied.

    Shui Xian kissed the top of her head and turned on the tv. "You''re getting smarter, wifey."

    "I was already smart."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips to hide his smile and asked, "Do you ever think before you speak?"

    Raelle put her chin on his chest and looked at his face, "Of course! I think, ''I probably shouldn''t say this.''"

    "And then?"

    "And then I still say it," said Raelle.

    Shui Xianughed out and Raelle was left gazing at his heartyughter in a trance. His whole body was reverberating because of theughter. He looked rxed now. She didn''t think he would actually step away from his sister''s matters. After all, ording to what Cloe learned, he had done a lot more than just helping his sister.

    But this time, he was choosing to stand beside his wife. It made something stir within her but she whocked the vocabry to put emotions into words couldn''t possibly tell what this unfamiliar feeling was. She just knew she didn''t dislike it.

    "Wifey, stop looking at me like that."

    "Like what?" asked Raelle.

    "Like you''re falling in love with me."

    "You''re overthinking it," responded Raelle as she turned her head and ced her head on his chest. With his strong heartbeat beating against her ear, she closed her eyes briefly.

 Chapter 212 - Coax A Girl?

    When Sora came to visit Hyson at the hospital, Hyson was having a staredown with the security team that had been following him. He knew he couldn''t stop Raelle from doing what she wanted but he dide up with a n to irritate these babysitters so much that they''d leave him on their own.

    However, before he could even start, his conscience started knocking down his evil or more like childish ns. He couldn''t bring himself to give them a hard time. That was just not like him.

    So he was brooding as he stared them down.

    *Knock! Knock! Knock!*

    With three knocks, Sora pushed open the door and looked inside. Seeing her at the door staring at his babysitters, Hyson shooed them away, "I have a guest. You all can wait outside now."

    Sora stood aside and watched them leave. Only then did she stepped inside and extended the bouquet of flowers to Hyson. He took the bouquet and said thanks to her before asking her to take a seat.

    Sora pulled up a chair and sat down beside Hyson''s bed, "How are you now?"

    "I''m good," replied Hyson.

    Sora hesitated for a minute before saying, "I''m sorry!"

    "Huh?"

    "I''m really sorry for everything. I really am the one who should be med for this."

    Hyson looked carefully at her face and offered her a smile, "It was just an ident. You don''t have to feel guilty about it."

    Sora was stunned by his sincere smile for a second, "Do you really think all of it was just an ident?" Hyson pursed his lips and didn''t answer that question. "I should have never allowed Xu Hua to enter the crew. I''m fully responsible for this. You don''t have to try tofort me."

    Hyson wasn''t that good atforting people either. So, he was at a loss right now not knowing what to say to her. He really didn''t want to me her either.

    "Me ending up here is just the result of a chain reaction. One action led to another and that''s how we ended up here. I really don''t me you for it." He took a pause, "In fact, I really am thankful to you. If it wasn''t for your trust in me, I wouldn''t have gotten this chance at all."

    Sora tried to smile at him as she said, "You''re a really nice person, Hyson."

    "Really?" Hyson scratched the back of his head. "I don''t think so but thanks for thepliment anyway." He recalled something and turned serious, "Is everything okay at the set?"

    Sora didn''t reply and Hyson could understand the meaning behind it.

    "It seems I should apologize for causing you so much trouble," he chuckled softly. "I''m really sorry! It''s just that it''s not in my hands anymore. The moment I got into the hospital, this situation was already out of my hands." Hyson wasn''t trying to shirk the responsibility. He was telling her the truth right now.

    If his condition had been hidden from Raelle then the matter would be different. But since she got involved, he was longer in the position to make decisions.

    "I have possessive and over protective family," he hold her in distress. "They won''t listen to me anymore. But can you tell me about what''s really going on? Maybe I can find a way out?"

    Sora shook her head, "You should concentrate on recuperating. The matters of outside world... You should not pay attention to it for now."

    "But I really want to know. How else can I think of a way to help out?"

    "There is no need for you help though," replied Sora.

    "Isn''t this movie really important to you?" questioned Hyson with a frown.

    "It is indeed really important to me. And it''s also quite special to me as well," answered Sora. "But it''s not more important than your life." Hyson was stunned by her words. "Miss Jones said something to me... She said if the help didn''t reach you on time, you''d have likely died in snow. That''s when I realized your family isn''t going overboard. If at your ce, my own brother had been, I would also react like your family is doing."

    "I know it was serious," said Hyson. "But I''m fine now. We shouldn''t be stuck in the past. I''d feel guilty if your movie got problems because of me. Give me some time, I''ll try to fix it. Even if someone has to be held responsible, it shouldn''t be you or the people involved who have invested their time and effort."

    Sora''s eyes brimmed with tears when she heard his words, she bit her lips and smiled at him, "I really don''t know how someone can hate you."

    "I know, right?" retorted Hyson. "I''m also baffled to know that someone can hate me." Sora chuckled at his cheekiness while he added, "But we can''t please the crowd. As my best friend says, I only need to please myself. Because it''s my life. Why should I spend my life on pleasing the crowd? That doesn''t even make sense."

    There was this thing about him that caught Sora''s attention from the moment she firstid eyes on him. And she wanted Amiah to notice that too. She wanted her to see how raw Hyson was as a person. And just as Hyson said, it truly baffled her as well to see that someone actually didn''t like him.

    "You better not cry," warned Hyson. "I don''t know how to coax girls. The women in my life doesn''t cry easily. So, I get ufortable seeing girls cry." He took a pause and added, "Also, my mum says men who makes girls cry are scoundrels." He ced his hands together and pouted, "Don''t make me into one! So, please, don''t let those tears drop because of me."

    Sora was so taken aback by his words that she even forgot to cry. She was just left staring at him in surprise and disbelief. It was strange but she ended up smiling in the end because of how he looked at her.

 Chapter 213 - A Possibility

    When Sora came back to the hotel they had moved to justst night, she learned that the whole production crew had started scattering. Everyone was leaving.

    He Rou came to Sora''s side and told her, "I''m also leaving now."

    Sora rubbed her face, "I thought you''d stay."

    "I want to," answered He Rou honestly. "However, this time I can''t stay. My grandfather sent people from home to take me back. He said he won''t allow me to be a part of this movie anymore."

    "Your grandfather?" asked Sora in surprise. "Doesn''t he usually not get involved with your career?"

    "He doesn''t," replied He Rou. "And that''s why I find it weird that this time, he is actively insisting me toe back home." She patted Sora''s shoulder and added, "It seems like Hyson isn''t a simple person. Your cousin has messed with people she shouldn''t have. And now, all of us will have to bear the consequences of it." She paused briefly and thought of something, "Now, I know why my boyfriend advised me to be careful around Hyson."

    "Huh? Your boyfriend did what?"

    "He said to me that Hyson might be a simple person but the people behind him aren''t simple. So, I should take care of him on the set and make sure no one gets to y schemes on him." She shook her head in disappointment, "I''m definitely gonna have an argument with him because I wasn''t able to take care of Hyson."

    "I''m sorry!" said Sora. "Because of me..."

    "Sora, stop ming yourself," told He Rou. "You couldn''t have seen the future. Just like I didn''t think that while I was shooting, something like this would happen to Hyson. Take care of yourself. I''ll let you know if I found out any details."

    While Sora sent her off, she got a call from her brother. "Bro, what''s up?"

    "Just what the hell did you get yourself into?" came the response from the other side.

    "Bro, I''m sorry for getting you involved in this."

    "I''m not the one you''re supposed to apologize to." The person on the other side took a deep breath and went on, "Come back home as soon as possible. Let''s see what I can help you with."

    "Thanks for not giving up on me," said Sora in a small voice.

    "You''ve never caused me any trouble Sora. You''ve always been sensible. But this time, you should know that you''ve put me in a very difficult position. And also, against some really tough people."

    Sora felt really bad when she heard all of that from her brother. She took a while to calm herself and settle her emotions before she went back to the room which she shared with Amiah.

    Seeing that Amiah was busy eating a whole cake all by herself, she didn''t even look at her and walked over to gather her stuff before packing it up.

    "You''re leaving?" asked Amiah when she noticed her movements.

    "What else?"

    "So, you''re giving up so easily? Wasn''t it, your dream to make this movie a sess? Why are you giving up so easily?"

    Sora faced her and replied, "I''m not giving up. I''m being realistic instead of being stubborn like you. Staying here won''t fix anything. I have to go back and look for a way out of this trouble."

    "Did you call your brother?"

    Sora nodded her head, "I did. And he said he won''t be able to help much. All he can do is save me. The rest, he can''t promise me."

    Hearing that Amiah''s mood went to a new low. Her brother didn''t even offer to save her. She had been so used to getting what she wanted or things going her way that now that Shui Xian said he won''t be helping her, she was feeling lost and uneasy.

    She didn''t know why she felt this way. And she was even scared by the idea that her brother was giving up on her. He had given in to her for years but this time, he was truly fed up with her. She never thought she''d ever find herself in such a situation.

    "Didn''t you go to visit Hyson at the hospital?"

    "Yes, I did. And as you said, I only went there to visit him. It had no other purpose."

    Amiah frowned at her, "He is the cause of this mess, why don''t you ask him to solve it?"

    "No, Mia! He isn''t the cause of this mess!" Sora said sternly. "And I''m not shameless enough to ask him for help. Do you not even realize what situation he was in? He could have died out there!"

    "But he didn''t!" Amiah shot back. "Isn''t he fine now? Why are we getting punished over a possibility that didn''t even happen?!"

    "You''re truly making me question why we are friends," said Sora, sounding like she was suppressing her anger now. "Put yourself in the same situation and think! You always say you love your brother the most in this world. Then imagine him being in a simr situation as Hyson was. Would you still be acting like this?"

    Amiah''s heart shook when Sora put her words like that. She was scared even at the thought of not being able to talk to Shui Xian again. But losing him would drive her crazy!

    "It''s better if you also pack up your bags already," advised Sora. "We won''t be able to fix anything here. You and I don''t even know who we are up against right now."

    With a heavy heart, Amiah nodded at her and turned to first finish her cake before packing. Sora didn''t stop her. She already knew that something was bothering Amiah and that''s why thetter was eating so much cake right now. Even though on normal days, she doesn''t even touch sweets. But whenever she felt uneasy, she would eat a cake.

    Sora zipped up her bag and washed up her face before putting her coat back on. It was time to leave this ce. She had to take a step back if she wanted to move forwardter on.

 Chapter 214 - Scare Half To Death

    "Elder Xiang, are you taking care of your health?"

    Grandfather Xiang groaned inwardly when he heard the same question from Mu Chenyan again. Every single time she called, she just had to ask this very same question.

    He looked at the screen of theptop and asked, "How many times do you want me to answer that question?"

    "Well, I can''t help it," replied Mu Chenyan while scratching her jaw.

    Grandfather Xiang put down the scissor that he had been using to prune the nts. "Are you having fun?" Mu Chenyan nodded her head. "Make sure not to get hurt."

    "Yes," answered Mu Chenyan. She never told him what she was up to but she knew in her heart that he knew about it. They say fathers always have a connection with their daughters. Although she never called him father, Grandfather Xiang did raise her like a daughter. There were several things she didn''t need to put in words before him.

    "Are you hiding something from me, Chenyan?"

    Mu Chenyan bit her lips and nodded, "I''m not sure whether I should tell you about this or not."

    "There is no secret that stays forever," answered Grandfather Xiang.

    Mu Chenyan contemted his words and nodded agreeably. She also knew nothing could stay hidden forever. It was useless for her to even try.

    "Last night, Yue Fai was in an ident," she stated trying to keep her voice as calm and rxed as possible.

    "What?!" Grandfather Xiang''s eyes widened. "What happened?" He inquired in worry and Mu Chenyan gave him all the details she had.

    From the moment Raelle asked people to rescue Hyson, she was already informed. After all, the security team of the whole Xiang family fell under Mu Chenyan''s jurisdiction. There was no way any one of them could hide this from her. So, even if Raelle didn''t choose to tell her, she was well-informed.

    "Elle didn''t tell me anything about it, but she''s taking some serious actions."

    Grandfather Xiang processed everything he learned and smiled gently, "Are you upset that she didn''t tell you anything? Or you''re upset that her actions aren''t enough for you?"

    Mu Chenyan cleared her throat, "Neither. I just don''t want her to get involved in this messy stuff."

    "She has been corporate world for a decade now," said Grandfather Xiang. "Don''t you think she is quite familiar with the dealing of such messes?"

    Mu Chenyan sighed out, "I know she is capable. I have no doubt about that. But I don''t want her beautiful heart to get tainted."

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head, "You are the one who taught her to have her own opinions. And now, you''re upset that she has her own opinions? Didn''t you alwaysin about how she didn''t care enough to even talk back to people who insulted her? And this time, she isn''t just talking back."

    Mu Chenyan made a face and agreed with him. Indeed, she should be happy that Raelle was reacting in this way but she couldn''t help worrying. Such a conflicted feeling.

    "Did you tell Yue about this?"

    Mu Chenyan looked at him and shook her head, "Even though Yue Fai''s injuries aren''t life-threatening, they are still serious enough to scare Yue half to death. I don''t wanna be the one to break this news to her."

    Grandfather Xiang nodded, "It''s good that you didn''t tell her. Let the kids decide what they want to do. You don''t have to get involved. You just make sure they are safe."

    "Yes!" replied Mu Chenyan.

    "Now, continue..."

    "Huh?" Mu Chenyan looked dumbfoundedly at him.

    "Do you expect me to believe that was all?"

    Mu Chenyan cursed under her breath before telling him, "When the rescue team found our Fai, he was not alone. There was an injured Air Force officer beside him as well. After they were both moved to the hospital, we received the information of the Air Force officer."

    Grandfather Xiang''s expressions didn''t change even though he could tell where this was going. But he didn''t stop her either and let her continue as he listened attentively.

    "The officer was Lieutenant Colonel Xiang Weimin who had gone missing during a mission two days ago while his jet crashed, no one was able to find him until Yue Fai identally found him in snow," she added and observed his reaction. "Elle already knows about this."

    Grandfather Xiang closed his eyes and adjusted his emotions before asking, "How is his condition?"

    Mu Chenyan briefed him before concluded, "His injuries aren''t life-threatening either but he could have died if he didn''t run into Yue Fai. After all, hismunication device was broken and because of his leg injury, he couldn''t find his way out of the mountain forest. It was highly likely that he would have died there." She paused and recalled something, "I''ve checked. He was supposed to be on vacation. His vacation was even approved. But at thest minute when the aircraft of enemy intruded on the country''s territory, he decided to take the mission and flew his jet out."

    "Chenyan..."

    "Yes."

    "You''re well-informed."

    Mu Chenyan scratched her ear not knowing what to say. "Well, you wanted to know if any of your grandchildren were in trouble." She tried tough it off by adding, "Besides, I spent quite a while in the armypound. I still have a lot of connections."

    "Don''t bring this up with Raelle," instructed Grandfather Xiang. "She won''t be interested in knowing what Xiang Weimin was doing there."

    "Well, you''re right. She really isn''t interested at all. She isn''t even interested in his life and death."

    "You should stop getting so interested as well," added Grandfather Xiang. "Don''t think I don''t know why chose Nanzhou for your escapade."

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips tightly, "I''ll try my best to not be so interested."

    "I''m gonna go look for Raelle. You take care of yourself. I''m hanging up."

    Mu Chenyan said goodbye and turned off the video call. But she was left staring into space with so much running through her mind.

 Chapter 215 - Wallow In Pain

    Mu Chenyan came out of the reverie when she heard some noise. She looked over and found Yue Yuee out of her bedroom. She nced at Mu Chenyan.

    ''What are you doing?''

    Mu Chenyan feigned ignorance quite well, "What are you talking about?"

    Yue Yue came to sit opposite her stared at her face intently, ''Why did we fly to Nazhou? Didn''t you say we''d be staying in Jiangzhou for another week?''

    "Well, life is always changing. Why can''t my ns change? Besides, Nanzhou is a beautiful ce. The best part is, the spring is already in full bloom here. You''ll love it here!" Mu Chenyan''s current expression resembled those slimy kidnappers who tried to lure kids into their traps by offering candies.

    But even though she looked really unreliable, Yue Yue still let her be.

    ''I''m gonna go rest then. I''m tired,'' said Yue Yue and went back to her bedroom to take a nap.

    Since Mu Chenyan had been an energetic girl in her youth, one could still see the shadow of that energetic personality. It was truly hard for Yue Yue to keep up with Mu Chenyan''s energy since she was getting on age now. But apparently, she was a year or two younger than Mu Chenyan, and yet, she was the one who was tired like an olddy while Mu Chenyan was like a teenager who finally got the chance to escape house arrest.

    "Get a good sleep, Yue!" called out Mu Chenyan from behind and flinched when Yue mmed the door shut. But instead of finding it strange, Mu Chenyan chuckled, "Aiyah! I''m simply amazing! I even have the talent to evoke the deeply buried temper of a gentle and soft-spoken woman like Yue." Mu Chenyan patted her own shoulders, "Chen Chen, you''re too good!"

    Mu Chenyan picked up her phone and looked through all the information she received sincest night. In fact,ing to Nanzhou unnned was actually because of everything she learned. She had a purpose for specificallying here. Besides, she wasn''t actually lying to Yue earlier when she told how beautiful Nanzhou was. She was all too well familiar with this city, and she without a doubt could say that the spring in Nanzhou was one the best she had seen.

    While she was had a clear purpose for being here, she was feeling a bit guilty in her heart for some reason. And that''s why when suddenly her phone rang and she was the called id, she almost dropped her phone.

    She took three deep calming breaths before taking the call. "As always, our Elle doesn''t forget to follow her schedule."

    Raelle heard her voice and stayed silent for a moment before stating, "You already learned about thest night''s happenings." She was clearly stating a fact and there was no hint of like she wanted to confirm it from her personally.

    Mu Chenyan walked out on the balcony and closed the ss door. Leaning against the railing, she answered, "I have to be well-informed since my Elle has finally learned how to lie."

    "Raelle Xiang doesn''t lie," said Raelle calmly. "Yanyan never taught Raelle how to lie. Yanyan only taught Raelle how to hide things. But if Yanyan asks, Raelle will answer everything honestly."

    Mu Chenyan felt aplex emotion when she heard Raelle talking like this. It was true, she never taught Raelle to lie. And it was also true that the reason why Raelle was able to hide things was her as well.

    After all, with Raelle''s straightforward personality, she might have shared unnecessary things with people she wasn''t supposed to. That''s why Mu Chenyan had to instruct her patiently that she had to wait for the other person to ask the question before answering. And even then, only give brief replies. There was no need to go into details.

    Because of Mu Chenyan''s teaching, Raelle answered precisely to each and every question. And that could be said to be the reason why Shui Xian wasn''t able to dig deeper into Raelle''s life.

    Mu Chenyan sighed and said, "Elle, I''m actually d that you learned to hide things." A gust of wind hit the side of her face and her hair flew around. She pushed her hair back and looked back. The scene before her eyes was just as beautiful as she could recall it. The wind made the cherry blossoms flew around and made it seem like the rain of cherry blossoms. She extended her hand and caught a flying cherry blossom in the palm of her hand.

    "Did Elder Xiange to see you?"

    Raelle hummed in reply, "Opa just left. I asked him to stay for dinner but he refused."

    Mu Chenyan chuckled, "He''d rather eat alone than bing a lightbulb between you and your husband."

    "Yanyan, you didn''t tell Yue about any of it, right?"

    "I''m not mad. At least, not to that extent yet. I didn''t say a word to her."

    "That''s good," replied Raelle. "Hyson doesn''t want her to know anything for now."

    "I figured," answered Mu Chenyan. "How is our son-inw?"

    "He is fine."

    "Have you checked the details of the people involved in Yue Fai''s movie crew?" inquired Mu Chenyan even though she knew the answer very well on her own.

    "I did." Raelle could also tell why she asked this question specifically. "But that isn''t enough for me to back out."

    "I also figured that out," replied Mu Chenyan. "I didn''t raise a woman who would give up just because things gotplicated. And no matter what you choose to do, just know that your Yanyan is always on your side."

    "And if I murder someone?" asked Raelle out of the blue.

    "Then I''ll help you in hiding the body." Mu Chenyan didn''t even need to think before she could answer this question.

    "Then if someone saw me doing the murder?"

    "I''ll clean the witness up as well."

    Raelle nodded her head which Mu Chenyan couldn''t see but she could hear Raelle''s hum of acknowledgment. "That means I''m really not going overboard."

    Mu Chenyan shook her head when she realized that Raelle asked those questions to confirm that she wasn''t going overboard.

    "Don''t think about this messy stuff anymore," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Okay."

    "Take care of yourself!"

    "Hmm... You too, Yanyan!"

    When Raelle hung up the phone, Mu Chenyan''s face didn''t lose the gentle andforting smile that had crawled up on her lips. She took in the fresh air around her before slipping inside the room to take some rest as well.

    She slept for half an hour before she got back up and washed up before changing into a new set of clothes. Yue Yue came out of the bedroom again while rubbing her eyes. Her mouth had opened as she yawned and she raised her hand to ce it before her mouth when her hand paused looking at Mu Chenyan getting all geared up.

    Yue poured herself a ss of water and sat down as she continued to look at Mu Chenyan.

    ''Where are you going?''

    Mu Chenyan''s eyes were on her hand signs before she answered, "I have to catch up with some old friends."

    ''You don''t have any old friends,'' Yue pierced right through Mu Chenyan''s lie. ''Forget it. Wherever you''re going take me with you. I really don''t trust you.''

    Mu Chenyan acted like she was actually sad to learn about that. But Mu Chenyan didn''t pay her any attention at all. She simply rushed her to get dressed.

    Mu Chenyan took her straight to the big garage that had so many vintage cars in it that it made even Yue Yue''s brows raise up in surprise.

    ''Who do these belong to?'' asked Yue in curiosity.

    "Me," replied Mu Chenyan as she took a key from the sets of keys hanging on the wall. "This is my dad''s collection. He left it all to me."

    Yue nodded her head and suddenly something clicked, ''This house is also yours?''

    Mu Chenyan shrugged her shoulders, "Didn''t I tell you? My family left me with enough money tost a lifetime even if I squandered it all. This house happens to be one of those properties that were left to me. I just don''te here. I spent my early childhood here. It''s a beautiful memory." Then she faced Yue and smiled at her, "But no matter how beautiful memory is, it can only bring you pain. And I certainly am not someone who would wallow in pain."

    Yue gave her a thumbs-up as she opened the door of the white jeep wrangler and took her seat. She could see that even though Mu Chenyan didn''t live in this house, everything was organized here. That meant someone regrly took care of this ce and everything inside this ce.

    Even the cars here were well maintained. That meant, no matter the old models or the new models like this jeep wrangler she sat in, everything could be driven out at any time.

 Chapter 216 - Selling The Soul

    Feeling bored while driving, Mu Chenyan turned on the music. Hearing the loud heavy metal music ring out of the speakers, Yue Yue was startled awake from her trance. She was just enjoying the view outside the window but Mu Chenyan''s choice of music scared her.

    She red at her before turning it off.

    "I''m feeling bored!" told Mu Chenyan. "I can''t even talk to you while I''m driving."

    Yue Yue frowned at her before selecting something else to y. As the soothing sound of the violin filled the silence. Mu Chenyan gave Yue Yue a nce from the corner of her eyes. As she stopped the car at a red light, she turned to her and said, "Yue, do you want me to sleep? I''m driving! I can''t listen to this."

    ''Your kind of music hurts my ears!'' responded Yue.

    "And your kind of music makes me yawn!" shot back Mu Chenyan. "I''m not artistic like you. I really can''t appreciate the beauty of such a marvelous piece. Just y something else."

    Yue Yue already knew Mu Chenyan really wasn''t the type of person who could appreciate ssical music. She could onlyment inwardly and decided, ''Let''s just y the radio.''

    Mu Chenyan stepped on the elerator and nodded, "That''d be better."

    When Yue turned on the radio, a song yed out.

    ??I know that you''re wrong for me

    Gonna wish we never met on the day I leave

    I brought you down to your knees

    ''Cause they say that misery lovespany

    It''s not your fault I ruin everything (everything)

    And it''s not your fault I can''t be what you need

    Baby, angels like you can''t fly down hell with me, oh!

    Angels like you can''t fly down hell with me ?? (Song: Angels Like You, Singer: Miley Cyrus)

    They only managed to listen to thest part of the song but Mu Chenyan liked it a lot. When she nced over at Yue Yue, she found that thetter was busy appreciating this beautiful city.

    And indeed, Yue Yue did find Nanzhou to be a beautiful ce. She wasn''t taking Mu Chenyan seriously before but she had to say, this city was painted in vibrant colors making anyone feel rxed and jubnt.

    "Yue, after hearing that song, I feel like I''m ying the role of the devil who is trying to make an angel-like your fly down to hell with me."

    Yue Yue could hear that she was half-joking but the other half was she being serious about it. For some reason, Mu Chenyan really thought of her as an angel. She didn''t even know why was that.

    Since Yue Yue couldn''t distract her, she opened the phone assistant and typed her reply, "But if the devil is like you, even angels like me would end up selling their souls."

    Mu Chenyan''s grip on the steering wheel tightened while Yue Yue smiled at her reaction. Although Mu Chenyan never believed herself to be a good person, Yue Yue knew she was one. Anyone could see it from the way she devoted herself to raise Raelle. She even forgot her own self for Raelle. Compared to her, Yue Yue never thought of herself to be a better person.

    After passing through checkpoints, Mu Chenyan''s wrangler finally made its way into the parking lot of the Army General Hospital. Yue Yue had her brows raised from the moment they had first stopped at the first checkpoint. But Mu Chenyan had been pretending like she couldn''t see the question marks above her head.

    Mu Chenyan unfastened her seatbelt and her hand was held by Yue Yue, ''What are you doing here?''

    "Umm... Someone I know is here, I came to just make a visit," answered Mu Chenyan. She alighted and opened the door of the back seat and pulled out a fruit basket and only now did Yue Yue saw that fruit basket. However, since Mu Chenyan didn''t stop in the way to get this, it meant someone had already ced it in the car even before they drove here.

    "Do you want toe with me?"

    Yue Yue shook her head vigorously, ''I don''t like hospitals. I''ll just wait for you here.''

    "Ok!"

    Yue Yue watched Mu Chenyan walking towards the entrance of the hospital and leaned her head back before closing her door. She really hated hospitals. Thest time she was at a hospital was when she was told she would never be able to speak again. Since then, she had been associating hospitals with her worst memories. She couldn''t stop it.

    Feeling a little suffocated, she got down the vehicle and took a deep breath in the fresh air. As her eyes wandered around, she was surprised to see such a beautiful garden in a military hospital. She went behind the vehicle and leaned against it as she enjoyed the view. Finding it too mesmerizing, she pulled out her phone to click a photo.

    "Your son is doing better than I thought."

    Yue Yue''s whole body stiffened when she heard that voice.

    "But it will still take him months before he recoverspletely."

    Another voice answered the previous one. But this time, Yue Yue could hear the voices closer to her. And she knew the two people talking were just on the other side of the car. She didn''t dare to move, she squatted down to even hide.

    "But the doctor said he''ll make a full recovery. Isn''t that a miracle you should be d for?"

    The other person took a moment before replying, "When did I say, I''m not happy? I''m just distressed because I know my son. He won''t be willing to spend months in a hospital just to achieve full recovery."

    "Well, that''s true," agreed the other man. "Weimin does love to work excessively. I mean he was supposed to be on a vacation and still took the mission as soon as he got the chance."

    "That''s why I''m worried about him, Kuijun."

    "Well, you''re the General, Hulin. Why don''t you just use your authority to make sure he isn''t able to run around?"

    Yue Yue was certain that the first voice belonged to Zhai Kuijun. And after hearing the name from the other man, there was no doubt left in Yue Yue''s mind. He was indeed Zhai Kuijun. As for the other one. She didn''t know him.

    There was a long silence after that. So long that one would think that they left, but Yue Yue didn''t hear their footsteps, so she didn''t let her guard down. Instead, she looked under the wrangler, and seeing their feet, she again stayed right where she was.

    "I heard your father-inw is retiring from his position? Is it true? Is he really leaving the politics?"

    Zhai Kuijun sighed out, "I also heard the same. So, it must not be just a rumor." He took a pause and added, "The Yue family had been in politics for too long. But after my father-inw''s career ends, no one knows what will happen."

    "It seems you don''t even know that your wife is trying to take her father''s ce in the office."

    Zhai Kuijun was left stunned but he got over it soon enough, "Well then the Yue Family''s political future looks bleak."

    Yue Yue was also taken aback by the amount of information she just received. It seemed her father was retiring that meant, she won''t be able to see him on news any longer. That was her only way to see her father but now, it won''t be possible. But before she could feel sad about this news, she learned that her elder sister was joining politics. That didn''t sound like something her sister would do.

    "Kuijun, when was thest time you met your wife?"

    "Last year at my father-inw''s birthday party," replied Zhai Kuijun. "Oh, it''ll be his birthday party in a month. It seems I''ll have to see her again."

    "What''s with that displeased look on your face?"

    "I can''t be like you, General Xiang Hulin. You are able to smile and go on dinners with your ex-wife, I can''t even stand my wife now."

    The phone in Yue Yue''s hands dropped down when she heard that sentence. Both Zhai Kuijun and Xiang Hulin heard the noise and raised their brows.

    "Is someone here?"

    They both had the same question. Yue Yue picked up her phone and hurriedly crawled away to the side of another car in the parking lot.

    And as soon as she left, both the men checked behind the car but couldn''t find anyone.

    "That''s strange I thought I heard some noise," said Zhai Kuijun.

    While Zhai Kuijun was focused on this issue, something else has caught Xiang Hulin''s attention. He was staring at the jeep wrangler with a furrowed brows.

    Seeing how Xiang Hulin looking around the parking lot, Zhai Kuijun questioned, "Who are you looking for?"

    "That''s my sister''s wrangler," he answered.

    "Your sister?" asked Zhai Kuijun. "You mean, Mu Chenyan?"

    Xiang Hulin nodded his head, "Yeah! Chen Chen is here."

 Chapter 217 - Troublemaker Vibe

    Zhai Kuijun was not sure why Xiang Hulin looked certain.

    "Are you sure, she is here?"

    Xiang Hulin nodded, "I''m certain. I can''t be wrong about it."

    "What is she doing here?" questioned Zhai Kuijun.

    "She must be here to see Weimin," replied Xiang Hulin as his features softened at the thought. "She''d hover around his ward and sneak away once she is certain that he is fine." He shook his head, "She really doesn''t change."

    "Although you''ve been apart for years, you still seem to know her well," remarked Zhai Kuijun. He couldn''t understand his sentiments since Zhai Kuijun was the only son of his parents. Although Xiang Hulin was also an only child, he still found a sister in Mu Chenyan whom his parents adopted when she was very young.

    Xiang Hulin leaned against the jeep wrangler of Mu Chenyan, seemingly waiting for her. Although he was certain she wasn''t here for him, he still wanted to see her.

    Seeing that Xiang Hulin nned to wait, Zhai Kuijun couldn''t do anything except for waiting with him. Since they happen toe together to see Xiang Weimin, he couldn''t leave before him. He got a message and after seeing the content of it, he felt restless. He rummaged out a cigarette from his pocket and held it between his lips. But before he could find his lighter to light it up, his cigarette was snatched by Xiang Hulin.

    Zhai Kuijun watched as his cigarette was crushed in his hand and nced at him, "Hulin, what did my cigarette do to you?"

    "If you don''t care about your life, at least, care about the environment," came the reply from Xiang Hulin. Zhai Kuijun almost had the urge to roll his eyes at him. He couldn''t help it. Xiang Hulin''s personality was too rigid sometimes.

    "It''s not like I''m addicted to nicotine, it''s just that it helps relieve my depression," said Zhai Kuijun.

    "And what is so depressing?" asked Xiang Hulin.

    "You don''t have a wife, you won''t understand," answered Zhai Kuijun.

    Xiang Hulin faced him and said, "Every time she contacts you, you look for an escape by smoking. If it''s that difficult, why don''t you get a divorce?"

    "You think I don''t want to?" asked Zhai Kuijun.

    "Are you not getting the divorce for your son?"

    Zhai Kuijun shook his head as he opened the lighter in his hand and watched the me before closing it. He repeated the movement as he said, "When Yanjun told me he wanted to join the army, he and I spent the whole night talking. Just him and me. That''s when he told me that all his life he wished that his parents get a divorce. I told him I didn''t want him to grow up in a broken family. Do you know what he said?" Xiang Hulin stayed quiet since he knew Zhai Kuijun wasn''t looking for an answer from him. "He said, a broken family would have been better than the one that didn''t feel like a family at all." Zhai Kuijun sighed out heavily, "The very next day, I filed for divorce but my wife is refusing to sign the papers."

    "Yanjun has been in the army for years now, have you been unable to get a divorce for so long?" Xiang Hulin was a little surprised to hear that.

    "Yeah. She first started a fight that I wanted a divorce because I was cheating on her. She even hired private detectives to follow me. When she couldn''t find anything, she used her father to stop me from divorcing her. Even if my love for her turned into hate over the years, I still Elder Yue. I could have dragged her to court for divorce but for my father-inw, I didn''t."

    Xiang Hulin patted his shoulder, "Why didn''t you tell me this before?"

    "I didn''t find it necessary to share my sob story with you." Zhai Kuijun seemed half-serious and half-joking. "But now, I find it necessary to share it with you."

    "Why? What changed now?"

    Zhai Kuijun looked towards the sky as he said, "As I said earlier,tely you''ve been getting close to your ex-wife again. You''re ying a dangerous game, Hulin. If you''re trying to reignite the me that has already been burned to ashes, beware it might burn you with this time around."

    "Kuijun, you''re overthinking," said Xiang Hulin.

    "It better be like that. You''ll be the real idiot if you drank the same poison twice with your open eyes. Here I am looking for an escape from my marriage and you want to get into this mess again?"

    Xiang Hulin raised his hand and rubbed Zhai Kuijun''s head as if to soothe him. Zhai Kuijun swatted his hand away, "Do I look like a kid to you?"

    Xiang Hulinughed lightly, "No. But you seem to be getting aggressive. I told you, there is nothing like that. Even if I forget how we got divorced, I won''t be forgetting the reason why I was not even allowed to join my own mother''s funeral. Also, I can''t forget why I wasn''t allowed to be a part of my own daughter''s life."

    When he put it like that, Zhai Kuijun was suddenly reminded of those events as well. And he also had to agree that Xiang Hulin had to be a real masochist if he actually was willing to get back together with his ex-wife.

    "Speaking of your daughter, do you know she got married?"

    Xiang Hulin''s head whipped around, "What?"

    "Oh, it seems you don''t know. Well, I''m not even surprised," said Zhai Kuijun. "Anyway, she got marriedst month. I heard it from my son. He is acquainted with her husband."

    "Who did she get married to?"

    "Shui Koshing''s son," replied Zhai Kuijun.

    "Shui Xian?" questioned Xiang Hulin. And when Zhai Kuijun nodded, he asked, "Wasn''t he already married?"

    "Stay up-to-date, Hulin! Xian got divorced a long time ago. That''s even such old news. So old that most people don''t even remember that he was once married."

    Xiang Hulin didn''t pay attention to his sarcasm and said, "I only remember it because it caused quite a stir back then. He married that girl from the Tang family and everyone knows the blood dispute between Shui and the Tang family. That''s the only reason I could recall it even now." He was silent for a moment before he nudged Zhai Kuijun, "Kuijun, I''m not much familiar with the Shui family. I do know Koshing but I know nothing about his son. What kind of a person he is?"

    Zhai Kuijun nced at him, "Hulin, don''t talk in riddles. Just straight up ask if he is the right man for your daughter or not."

    "Well, is he?"

    "Yes," answered Zhai Kuijun. "Xian is a good man. Although his personality changed after his divorce, he is still the same in his heart. Don''t worry too much. If someone has to worry that should be Xian. Your daughter isn''t easy to deal with." Xiang Hulin red at him, "Don''t look so angry, I''m being very honest here. I only met her once but I''m not able to forget her at all. She can intimidate anyone with her aura. She must have inherited it in her blood. But if I make her stand beside you, she might even overshadow your aura."

    Xiang Hulin couldn''t help smiling when he listened to that. It was rare for him to hear about Raelle. But it always made him feel happy whenever someone talked about how exceptional she was.

    His eyes caught sight of a figureing out of the hospital and his smile deepened. Mu Chenyan was talking to someone beside her and hadn''t noticed his presence yet. But when Zhai Kuijun looked at her, he straightened up, "Bloody hell! Did she even age at all?"

    Xiang Hulin chuckled, "Doesn''t look like it, right?"

    "She still is giving me that troublemaker vibe," remarked Zhai Kuijun.

    Mu Chenyan said goodbye to the people around her and looked around before her eyes settled on Xiang Hulin and just like that, she turned around and changed her route.

    "You''re not even being subtle about it, Chen Chen!"

    Mu Chenyan stopped and rubbed her nape before she turned around to face him. Waving her hand awkwardly, she smiled, "Hi, Ge! What''s up?"

    "Chen Chen, what are you doing here?" he asked.

    Mu Chenyan shrugged her shoulders carelessly, "A friend of mine was admitted here."

    "Oh?"

    "Really!" she emphasized.

    Xiang Hulin didn''t urge her to continue this topic. Instead, he asked, "Have dinner with me?"

    Mu Chenyan looked conflicted when she nced at him and answered, "I can''t."

    Xiang Hulin nodded his head. He knew she won''te as she hadn''te in all those years. He really felt sad about it but he didn''t say anything.

    "Okay."

    Mu Chenyan looked at his expression before she turned to look at the one standing beside him. Seeing him, she frowned, "Zhai Kuijun?"

 Chapter 218 - A Bad Day

    "Hi!" Zhai Kuijun waved at her in response.

    "What are you doing here?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "If you cane to see Xiang Weimin, why can''t I?" retorted Zhai Kuijun.

    "Who said I''m here to see Xiang Weimin? Wait? Xiang Weimin is here? Why? Is he injured?"

    Seeing her acting like that Xiang Hulin pursed his lips to suppress his smile while Zhai Kuijun snorted, "Even her acting skills haven''t changed in these years." To him, her acting was just as bad as it had been before. There wasn''t the slightest improvement. None that he could see for sure!

    Mu Chenyan didn''t care about hisment at all. She inly smiled at him before turning towards her car. But frowned when she didn''t see Yue Yue.

    "Yue!" she called out. Then she looked around the car but still didn''t find her. "Yue Yue?! Yue Yue?!"

    "Who are you looking for?" asked Xiang Hulin.

    "I came with my friend. I thought she was in the car, where did she go?" Mu Chenyan tried to call her but the call couldn''t connect. She craned her neck to look around the parking lot but couldn''t see her. So, she chose to jump over the roof of the jeep to get a better view of the parking lot.

    She didn''t care what she looked like right now. She was really worried about Yue Yue. She only left her here because she thought Yue Yue won''t randomly go out. It was also dangerous to randomly walk around a military hospital.

    Xiang Hulin rubbed his temples, "Chen Chen, get down here!" On his side, Zhai Kuijun was also shaking his head thinking about how Mu Chenyan really didn''t change in all these years.

    "Let me find her first," replied Mu Chenyan.

    *Beep!*

    She checked her phone and seeing the text was from Yue, she hurriedly jumped down and got in the jeep. "Found her! I''ll take my leave now! Ciao!"

    Seeing her car moving away, Zhai Kuijun asked, "You didn''t even ask her to stay."

    "She won''t stay even if I asked her," replied Xiang Hulin. Recalling something, he joked with Zhai Kuijun, "By the way, it''s such a coincidence that your wife''s younger sister''s name is also Yue Yue." Not hearing a reply from him, Xiang Hulin turned to look at Zhai Kuijun who seemed to be in a daze. "Do I remember it wrong?"

    Zhai Kuijun shook his head, "Not really. Her name is indeed Yue Yue." He sighed out, "It''s just that people usually don''t talk about her so I was a little taken aback."

    .....

    Meanwhile, Mu Chenyan stopped the car at the far end of the parking lot and found Yue Yue sitting on the wooden bench beside a flower bed. There seemed to be someone else there as well but before Mu Chenyan could get a look at that person, Yue Yue has already jumped in the car and signaled her to start driving.

    "Why did youe all the way here?" asked Mu Chenyan as they drove out of the hospital premises.

    Yue Yue pressed her lips together and closed her eyes trying to avoid answering that question.

    Earlier when she had confirmed that Zhai Kuijun was there, she had sprinted off to hide behind another car. But not feeling safe, she continued to walk further and further away from her original position as she continued to check if anyone saw her.

    But how would she know she had a stroke of bad luck for today. Because a car suddenly came right in front of her and...

    *Screech!*

    Although the car stopped quite some distance away from her, however, she was already feeling on edge, and because of that, she fell down. The driver came out to check up on her and asked, "Are you okay?"

    Yue Yue rubbed her chest to calm her fast beating heart as she waved her hand as if to say it was nothing. But since the other person couldn''t understand her, she looked for her phone that also fell down with her. Looking at the cracked screen, she tried to turn it on.

    The driver helped her up and asked again, "Miss, are you really okay?"

    Yue Yue nodded her head and looked up but froze when she saw the face before her eyes. Her eyes moved to the crisp uniform-d around the man''s body before her eyes stopped on the name written on his chest pocket, Zhai Yanjun.

    She groaned inwardly, today was really a bad day for her.

    Zhai Yanjun also looked at her and his brows furrowed up a little.

    Yue Yue instantly lowered her head and tried to turn on her phone again. As it turned on, she hurriedly typed, ''I''m alright. You don''t have to worry at all.''

    Zhai Yanjun''s frown deepened when he read the words she typed on her phone. "Are you sure?" he still asked.

    Yue Yue nodded once again at him while typing a message to send to Mu Chenyan asking her to hurry up and get her from here.

    "How about you sit down here for a while then?" suggested Zhai Yanjun as he pointed at the bench. Yue Yue followed his suggestion and sat down for a while.

    When Mu Chenyan approached, Yue Yue waved him goodbye and ran off as fast as she could. She really didn''t think her luck was so bad to run into both father and son on the very same day! Also, at the very same ce as well!

    Behind her, Zhai Yanjun had aplicated look in his eyes. He couldn''t seem to recall her face but the way she looked at him then avoided her eyes made him feel strange.

    Shaking these thoughts out of his head, he got back inside the car and parked it on the side carefully. He had only taken a day off toe here because he heard about Xiang Weimin''s ident. And he had to get back to his battalion as soon as possible. He couldn''t waste time here thinking about random stuff.

 Chapter 219 - Best Friend In Misery

    Hyson was moved back to Kia City in Shui Xian''s private jet. Although Hyson had a little hope that he''d be able to go back home, his little hope was crushed by Cloe who told him that Raelle had already arranged for everything in the hospital.

    He was peeling grapes grudgingly when Raelle entered the ward that was exclusively his. He didn''t even bother lifting his eyes to give her a nce and continued to peel the grapes and munch on them one by one. He acted as if grapes were the most important thing for him right now and Raelle''s presence meant nothing. Nothing at all!

    Raelle could see him throwing a tantrum like a kid. However, she also didn''t say anything to him. She silently moved around the ward to check the facilities avable and if there was anything missing.

    Getting tired of her silence, Hyson threw a grape at her head, "Hey! If you''re here, can''t you ask me how I''m doing?"

    Raelle turned around, then bent down to pick up the grape he threw at her and walked over to him. She held his hand and put the grape back in the palm of his hand saying, "Stop using your anger on fruits."

    Hyson picked up the fruit knife and said, "Then maybe I should be using my anger on you!"

    Raelle didn''t back away, in fact, she stepped forward and even said, "Why don''t you show me your knife skills then?"

    Hyson gritted his teeth and red at her before his shoulders slumped down and he picked up an apple and started peeling it off with the fruit knife. But since he wasn''t used to doing this, he was making more of a mess.

    Raelle held his hands and said, "Hyson, your knife skills are making me feel bad for the apple."

    Hyson put the knife and the apple back on the te and slid it away as heid back on the bed. He turned over as he huffed but then again looked at her, "Can''t I leave the hospital?"

    "No," answered Raelle.

    Hyson was fidgeting as he said, "This is my first time staying in a hospital. I don''t like it. Mum doesn''t like hospitals, now I know why. It''s depressing here. This is not a ce for someone like me."

    "Rx. After we get the results of your examinations, I''ll take you out of the hospital," reassured Raelle.

    "There are still some examinations left to do?" he asked looking horrified. "I''m not giving any more of my blood. Is it a hospital or a vampire? Why is the appetite for blood so big?!"

    Raelle curled her fingers and knocked on his head, "There is no such thing as vampires."

    Hyson gave her a look, "I don''t care! I''m just not giving any more blood!"

    "You don''t have to," said Raelle. "You''re just gonna get a brain scan now."

    "Brain scan? Why?"

    "To see whether you have a brain," replied Raelle with a straight face.

    Hyson jutted his lower lip out as he said, "All you do is hurt me."

    "You could have died of natural causes out there and you''re whining about me hurting you?"

    "Natural causes?" repeated Hyson. "I just slipped and fell. How is that natural cause?"

    "Gravity is natural," said Raelle.

    Hyson stared at her face and went, "Ha Ha Ha!" It was such dryughter that one could hear his annoyance through it. Taking a deep breath, he said, "You once told me to never let anyone ruin my day. It''s my day, I should ruin it myself." Raelle recalled saying that to him and nodded her head. "Then get out! I don''t want you to ruin my day!"

    "It''s such a pity that I want to be the one to ruin your day today," replied Raelle and even took a seat beside his bed. "Besides you''ll be bored if I''m gone."

    "Having you here is no different," said Hyson. "It''s not like you''re gonna y with me."

    "What do you want to y?"

    Hyson hurriedly looked at her, "Why? You''re gonna y with me?"

    "Of course, not!"

    "Don''t give hope when you''re gonna snatch it at the next stop!"

    Raelle continued to look at his face in silence for a while. "Hyson, your doctors are worried about you."

    "Huh? Why? Am I dying?"

    Raelle shook her head, "No. But they are concerned about the fact that you''re able to seem so energetic when your internal injuries are quite serious. It''s not like you haven''t seen the ck and blue body of yours."

    "Am I supposed to cry now?" asked Hyson. "It doesn''t even hurt. Or maybe my brain is not even receiving the pain signals from my body."

    "Or you''ve gotten so used to hiding your pain from your mother that you have forgotten how to react in this situation."

    Hyson pursed his lips before smiling, "Wow! My best friend sure is right! Every single time!" Then he sat up and put the te of grapes in her hand. "Since you''re so awesome. How about peeling some grapes for me?" Seeing how she just continued to stare, he picked one up and showed her, "This is how you peel it. You''re a fast learner. I''m sure you got it already."

    "You want me to peel it for you?" repeated Raelle.

    Hyson nodded his head, "Do you see anyone else here?"

    "I don''t mind peeling it, but will you be able to swallow it?"

    Hyson gulped visibly as he looked at her, "I''m sick. Stop threatening me. Can''t you do this much for your sick best friend?"

    "No, I can''t," she replied.

    Hyson gasped, "How mean of you!" He snatched it back and started peeling again, "Fine. I''ll peel some for you instead."

    "That seems like the right order of things," said Raelle and earned herself a re from Hyson.

    After a knock at the door, someone pushed open the door and ced a te of freshly peeled grapes before Hyson.

    He looked at the grapes and then at Raelle before shaking his head, "You could have done that from the start!"

    "How else would I see you grumbling so pitifully?"

    Hyson tsked at her. "You''re the only best friend in the world who loves to see her best friend in misery."

 Chapter 220 - Third-Rate Jokes

    While enjoying his grapes, Hyson looked at her and said, "Although this gesture of yours is quitemendable, it''d have felt more intimate if you had really peeled these grapes yourself." He put another juicy and plump grape between his teeth and went on, "But getting this much from you is already feeling like I''ve used up half the luck of my life."

    Raelle didn''t give him any response at all. She just sat there on the chair, with her one leg crossed over the other while her arms were crossed above her chest. Her nk eyes were following the movements of his hand and mouth as he continued to relish in sweetness of the grapes.

    "By the way, it''s really surprising that you''re here spending your Sunday with me instead of your husband."

    "We each need our personal space as well," she replied.

    "You just got married about a month ago and you already want personal space?" retorted Hyson. "You should avail every second to bond with him."

    "I can count the number of hours and minutes I spent with you from the moment we first met," told Raelle. "Although we have known each other the longest, the actual time we spent together isn''t long. What is your opinion about our bond?"

    Hyson wiped his hands and mouth with the wet wipes and patted his chest, "I solemnly swear that there is no one in the world who can im to have a better bond than you and I. Even twins'' telepathy is nothing before the connection between us." He sounded so assured and proud that Raelle was left staring at his face.

    "That means, I don''t have to stick to my husband to deepen our bond."

    When Hyson processed her words, he had to nod along in agreement. Time yed no role in human rtionships. With some people, you find an instant connection. Like he found in Raelle.

    "Ellie..."

    "Hm?"

    "Come here!" he beckoned her toe closer.

    "What is it?"

    "Juste here first," he insisted.

    Raelle straightened up and sashayed over to his side. As she stood beside him, she asked, "I''m close enough now."

    Hyson wrapped his arms around her waist and hugged her. Raelle paused for a long moment as she let him continue.

    "You know, I don''t like hugs," she said but no attempt to separate herself from him.

    "Then you can push me away," he said it provocatively since he knew she won''t be able to do so.

    And indeed, Raelle wasn''t able to push him away. No, it''d be right to say that she could but she didn''t feel like doing it. Besides, it wasn''t like it was their first hug. Although they did rarely hug, each and every hug of theirs had been special.

    Suddenly breaking the silence, Hyson asked, "You won''t ask me why I''m doing this?"

    "I already know," replied Raelle. "You want me to stop forcing the production of the movie to shut down."

    Hyson looked up at her, "See! I told you, we have better telepathy than anyone else around the globe." He rubbed his head against her arm trying to act cute as he said, "Can you not do anything?"

    "Sure," replied Raelle startling Hyson.

    "Really?" He was in disbelief. He didn''t think he''ll manage to convince her. After all, Raelle Xiang never changes. What just happened?

    "I can certainly let go but after that, this whole thing will go under the control of Yanyan. As we both know, I''ll only take an action to keep this movie from airing, Yanyan won''t stop at that. Do you really wanna see how far she can go?" She leaned over as she looked into his eyes, "You''re the one who once said to me that Yanyan is like the hidden boss of a video game. She always stays at home but the things she could do are unimaginable."

    Hyson gulped at the reminder and shook his head, "No! You can''t let her be a part of this."

    "Then be a good boy and allow me to take care of it," said Raelle. "I''m not that unreasonable to snatch someone''s work. Every person who is innocent will get a chance to follow a new crew. But the people involved directly or indirectly with your ident will have to pay with something."

    Hyson''s shoulders slumped down, "You once taught me the 90/10 principle of Stephen Covey. It states, 10% of life is made up of what happens to us. But the rest of the 90% depends on what actions or decisions we make because of that 10%. Although the 10% is not under our control, the other 90% is under our control."

    "Exactly where are you trying to get with this reference?" questioned Raelle.

    "My ident was like that 10% that wasn''t under my control neither was it under your control. But the rest is under our control. We determine 90% of the rest."

    "And you want to decide that 90% by choosing to forgive them?"

    "Yes."

    "Aren''t you asking me of something I''m incapable of doing?" Hyson looked up at her as she continued, "You of all people should know, I don''t know what forgiveness is. I only understand onenguage. If you''ve done something wrong, you should be punished for it." She took a pause and stressed, "Even if it''s you who has done something wrong, I still won''t be able to bend my principles for you." She took a breath and straightened up, "You should stop using my words to convince me otherwise."

    Hyson was nked out for a while but then he shrugged his shoulders and came back to himself, "Well, it was worth a shot. Anyway, I still would like you to go easy on Miss Sora Ke. She has treated me pretty well. I''m not an ingrate. So, I''d like you to keep her out of this."

    "But that assistant Xu Hua is Sora Ke''s cousin," said Raelle.

    "Yeah, so? Her only mistake was to bring her on board. But she couldn''t predict the future. She is a good person, don''t just condemn her for one mistake. Besides, it''s humans who make mistakes. A robot like you won''t understand it."

    "Let me first get the whole situation, only then I''ll decide what to do with her."

    Hyson nodded his head. It was good as long as she agreed to this much. She wasn''t irrational. She won''t retaliate against people who didn''t deserve it.

    Seeing how he ruined her mood, even though her face clearly looked the same, he tugged at her sleeve, "Ellie, wanna hear a joke?"

    "If I say no, will you shut up?"

    "Definitely not." He grinned at her foolishly.

    "Then go on."

    He took the ss of water from the table and showed it to her, "What is this?"

    "Can''t you see? Or your brain took a serious hit from the fall?"

    Hyson red at her, "Stop this nonsense."

    "Right back at you, Hyson! You''re asking me a nonsensical question yourself."

    Hyson took a deep breath and imed himself before continuing, "So, this is water."

    "Good thing your brain is still functioning. Well, at least, it''s barely working."

    "If you are done insulting me, focus!"

    "Okay." Raelle sat back at the chair and let him continue.

    "Water is the most powerful thing in the world. For instance, if you are thirsty, just drink water. If you want to lose weight, just drink some more water. And if you want clear skin, drink even more water."

    Raelle couldn''t help interrupting him as she said, "And if friends like you get annoying, we can drown them in the same water as well! Perfect, isn''t it?"

    Hyson facepalmed himself, "It must be tiring to not have a sense of humor."

    "I don''t know, you tell me. It''s you who has never managed to make meugh."

    "It''s because you have no sense of humor!"

    "No, it''s because you''re not funny."

    "You!" Hyson pointed at her but couldn''t get another word out of his mouth. So, he ended up sighing and slumping back in defeat. He opened his arms and said, "Come here and give me another hug."

    "No," refused Raelle.

    "Come on! Don''t be stingy!"

    "I am stingy!"

    "How can you see my heart breaking just over one hug?"

    "Don''t you say I''m heartless? I can definitely see anything and everything. Also, my eyesight is good. I can see everything clearly."

    "Elle! Just one hug!"

    "Go and hug someone else."

    "But hug without ''u'' is ''hg'' and that''s toxic."

    He observed her expressions after throwing his third-rate joke but found not even a flinch yet again. He wasn''t even surprised now.

    "Don''t you always say Physics is better than Chemistry? Why are you making Chemistry jokes with me?"

    "Maybe my head had really taken a hit from the fall. I''m gonna sleep it off."

    To hide his defeated look, he covered his head with the nket and refused to look at her.

    "Can you breathe in there?"

    Hyson didn''t reply to her and continued to sulk on his own. It''s been years and he had been failing at making a joke that was enough to make her react. It was utterly humiliating now.

    **Side Note: If any of you don''t know ''Hg'' stands for Mercury.

 Chapter 221 - A Possibility

    Since Hyson was sulking under the nket, Raelle was left with nothing to do except for keeping an eye on the watch to see how long will it take for Hyson to start talking again. And as always, it didn''t even take more than 5 minutes before pushed the nket away and breathed heavily.

    "It was hot inside," he said while fanning his face. "I almost suffocated." He pointed at her, "Go and get me some ice cream."

    "Haven''t you eaten enough ice when you fell?"

    Hyson''s lips twitched as he red at her, "That''s not funny! I could have died out there."

    "It''s good that you know that you could have died out there," replied Raelle.

    Hyson made a sound before saying, "Can''t you just get me ice cream? That''s the only thing I ask of you always."

    "And I always pay for your ice creams," said Raelle. It had be a kind of a tradition between them now. Hyson always wanted ice cream when she was around and she was always the one who had to pay for it. But once he got his ice cream, he''d certainly forget all about this best friend who paid for it.

    "So? You''re rich!"

    Raelle nodded in agreement, "Since you always say I''m rich, why don''t you do something about it?"

    "Huh?" Hyson was confused by her words.

    "If people have someone rich in their life, they''d love to use that person or his influence. What is wrong with you? Why can''t you just use my name?"

    Hyson frowned at her, "It''s a friendship, not a transaction. Between you and me, it has never been about giving and taking. Our rtionship is far above it. I am proud of you. I''m proud to have you as my best friend, as my family. But I don''t want to feel like I''m using you. It might make me despise myself."

    "Only you think something will change between us," she told him. "Forget it, tell me if you need anything else other than ice cream. What do you want to do?"

    "Nothing," he replied in a small voice. "Ellie, have you talked to my mum?"

    "I didn''t tell her anything."

    "I know. I''m just asking, have you talked to her?"

    Raelle gave him a nod, "Yes, I just talked to her this morning. Why?"

    "Did you notice something different about her?" Hyson looked quite serious when he questioned her. He had felt like his mother was feeling down when he talked to herst night. But he had always been over-sensitive when it came to his mother that''s why he wanted to hear her opinion. After all, Raelle was better at reading people through the smallest of changes in them.

    "She looked depressed and confused," answered Raelle honestly.

    Hyson almost jumped up when he heard that, "So, I wasn''t wrong!" He bit his nails as he thought about it, "Do you think someone hurt her?"

    "There is a possibility."

    "Right? Who really hurt her?"

    "I said it''s a possibility. There is also a possibility that nothing happened."

    Hyson nced at her, "But my heart is telling me that something is wrong with her. Something''s bothering her."

    "Your heart?" repeated Raelle. "When did it learn to talk? And it''s even holding conversations with you? That''s marvelous."

    "Remind me why we are friends."

    "Why? Did you lose your memory?"

    Hyson opened his mouth to retort but the doctor came in and he held himself back. The doctor nced at Raelle and asked, "Are you with him?"

    "I am," she answered. Looking at him, she added, "We are family."

    Hyson''s lips curled up at that remark.

    The doctor asked her toe to a side as he had something to discuss. Hyson could see that something was wrong. He just nced at Raelle who gave him a look before she followed the doctor out.

    From a young age, Hyson had realized one thing. He hated seeing tears in his mother''s eyes. And so, he did everything in his power to make sure that his mother wouldn''t cry because of him. When he was young, he got injured in a fight and his mother could neither eat nor sleep in worry. From then on, he promised himself to never let her see his pain.

    He was just a kid but he mentally started hypnotizing himself with the same words, ''There is no such thing as pain.'' This one sentence ended up being engraved on his soul. Now, he really didn''t pretend, his brain truly didn''t believe in pain any longer.

    A child''s mind is like a nk page. That''s why they say, childhood shapes a person''s future. Just like that once the same child goes through childhood trauma, it''s almost impossible to change it.

    Hyson changed the meaning of pain for himself from a young age. It was indeed his childhood that shaped him into what he was today. That''s why, right now, it was difficult for him to tell the extent of his own injuries.

    Raelle came back to the room and found Hyson staring at her, "What is it?"

    "You need to have surgery," replied Raelle.

    "Really?" Hyson''s brows raised up in surprise. "Why? I think I''m doing quite well."

    "They found internal bleeding in your abdomen," answered Raelle. "They knew the internal injury was serious but they didn''t expect it to start bleeding. Get ready for the surgery. It isn''t severe for now but the surgery is necessary."

    "Is it really that serious?" he asked and ced his hand over his stomach. "No wonder I thought something was weird when I was eating."

    Raelle took out her phone and made a call, "Cloe, where are you?"

    "Chief, I was just about to call you," said Cloe. "I found her."

    "Good," replied Raelle. "Hold her tight. I''ll be right there." Then she turned to Hyson and said, "I have to go now but I''ll be back soon. I won''t tell your mother about this but Opa wille to see you."

    Hyson looked at her, dispiritedly, and nodded, "Okay!"

    Raelle turned to leave but not before telling him, "Don''t get any ideas here. I''ll be back before your surgery starts. Just take care of yourself while I take care of some matters."

    After she walked out, Hyson looked heavenwards and sped his hands together to pray, "I pray for your poor soul whoever is at the mercy of my Elle. After all, she doesn''t have a thing like mercy in her."

    ....

    On Cloe''s side, she was looking for Xu Hua and surprisingly caught her right outside Amiah Jade''s apartment building. Although it seemed like she was here to look for help, it didn''t matter because she walked right into her cage.

    "Miss Jones," started Amiah while patting Xu Hua''s shoulder. "We are all civilized people. Let''s discuss it peacefully."

    "Miss Jade, the only reason I''m not touching you is your brother. Don''t force my hand."

    "Then for my brother''s sake, let her go. Her whole career is before her. She is young and made a mistake on impulse. You shouldn''t be too hard on her. Besides, didn''t you already shut down the production? Isn''t that enough?"

    Cloe was looking at her nails while yawning as if she was so bored of this lecture that it was putting her to sleep.

    "That isn''t enough for me," answered Cloe without any hesitation. "The main culprit is here. How can I let her go?"

    "She is young," repeated Amiah.

    "How young is she? Is she capable of thinking on her own? Is she capable of making her own decisions? If yes, then she needs to learn her lesson. And if no, then I must ask you why the hell did you allow such a young person to join your crew?"

    "We are all humans. We all make mistakes," argued Amiah. "When you first started your job, you must have also made a lot of mistakes."

    "I did," agreed Cloe. "And my Chief always punished me for those mistakes as well. Although we all are human. That''s no excuse to y with someone''s life."

    "I only wanted him to lose his way, I didn''t mean to hurt him," said Xu Hua from behind Amiah.

    Cloe snorted at that, "Are you trying to tell me you knew nothing about what will happen if he lost his way? In a forest that was known as a dangerous one? And you''re telling me you knew nothing about the snowstorm as well? Are you that naive or do you think I''m that naive?"

    Amiah stepped up and asked Xu Hua to stay quiet as she faced Cloe, "Miss Jones, let''s face the truth rationally. Hyson didn''t get hurt. He is safe now. You can''t punish someone over a possibility that didn''t even happen."

    "Oh?" responded Cloe. She held both of their wrists and dragged them to the road and pushed them right in front of a car. Looking at the fast speeding car that rushed towards them, both Amiah and Xu Hua were stunned and even forgot to pry their arms out of Cloe''s grip and run.

 Chapter 222 - Feeling Betrayed

    The red sports car was approaching at such speed that both the girls felt their knees trembling in fear. They really forgot to struggle out of Cloe''s grasp who seemed to be like a daredevil not afraid of anything right now. Even though she stood behind them, she still had no fear in her eyes.

    Both Amiah and Xu Hua were so scared that they ended up screaming loud and closed their eyes.

    *Screech!*

    The car stopped only an inch away from the girls. It was so close to them that if the brakes had been hit just a secondter, they both would have been hit.

    Seeing death so closely made them fall to their knees. Fear was not the right word to describe their feelings. They couldn''t possibly exin what they were feeling right now. It was unexinable.

    The car''s door was pushed open and a long leg stretched out. The red stilettos stepped down on the road and a tall figure came into view. The girl was d in ck skinny jeans that made her legs seemed longer. She wore a in white top and had big sunsses perched on her nose.

    Cloe nced at her and nodded, "Chief!"

    Raelle closed the car''s door and leaned against it as she nodded back at Cloe and said, "Continue."

    Getting her orders, Cloe crouched down beside the girls who were still shivering in fear, and asked, "So, did you enjoy the feeling? How was it?"

    Xu Hua was a crying mess at this point already. She was only 20 and had never felt such fear before in her life. So, she really broke down quite easily.

    As for Amiah, although she had seen the world, she had never been treated like this. She was fearful earlier. Who wouldn''t be when they''d be facing their death? However, she didn''t expect that Cloe had actually yed such a sick prank on them.

    She nced at Raelle and then red at Cloe hatefully, "Are you sick in your head? Are you trying to kill people now? Is there now in this world? Or do you think you''re above it? I''m gonna sue you for this!"

    Cloe smiled at her deviously, "Sue me? For what?"

    "For doing this!"

    "What did I do?"

    "Don''t y dumb now!" Amiah screamed at Cloe''s face. She stood up and clutched Cloe''s cor, "We could have gotten hurt!"

    "But you didn''t," Cloe pointed out. "Did you?" She looked her up and down, "Can you show me the injury?"

    "Are you not listening to me? I said we could have gotten hurt!"

    Cloe uncurled her fingers from her cor and pushed her away saying, "But that''s just a possibility. Do you think thew works on possibilities? You could have gotten hurt but you didn''t. You could have died but..." Cloe leaned over and whispered, "You didn''t. Do those words ring a bell?"

    Amiah was stunned to her ce when she heard that. Earlier she insisted on saying that Hyson didn''t die. It was just a possibility that didn''t happen. So, they didn''t have to make a scene out of it since it didn''t really happen.

    Cloe had Raelle on call all this time and thetter did hear all of it. And it was in fact Raelle who asked Cloe to drag them to the road. She would like to show them what the possibility of death looked like.

    Although Cloe was scared inwardly as well, however, knowing that the driver was Raelle Xiang herself, Cloe had full faith. She had seen her boss'' driving skills. If she still doubted those skills, she''d be the real idiot around here. Besides, Raelle Xiang''s calctions had never gone wrong. She knew precisely when to press the brake to achieve the desired effect that she needed.

    Cloe offered her another smile as she continued, "You often don''t understand things unless we have gone through them ourselves. You im that Hyson is fine. How do you know that? Have you visited him? I warned you before, I don''t give a fuck even if you''re a real princess. If I''m letting you go easily, don''t beg for death." She ced her hand on the side of her head and literally pushed her out of her way.

    Then she held the crying mess Xu Hua''s arm and pulled her up, "Stop crying, youngdy. I''m allergic to tears. If anything you''re making it worse for yourself by shedding tears. After all, none of us here have any sympathy for you. Besides, you aren''t a damsel in distress. No knight ising to save you. Get up and wipe your own tears already!"

    "C.J, stop wasting my time," came Raelle''s voice.

    Cloe could literally feel Raelle''s nk gaze from behind those ck shades she wore. And for a fleeting moment, Cloe felt like her boss was feeling impatient but then she shook her head denying her own conjecture. Raelle was the most patient person she knew. There was no way she''d be impatient at this moment.

    At this moment, Amiah could tell that the one who called the shots was the one whonguidly leaned against the sports car. She was about to approach her when Raelle snapped her fingers and her bodyguards held Amiah back.

    "Who are you?" questioned Amiah.

    "You''ll know eventually. But today isn''t that day." She waved her hand and said, "It''s better if you stay quiet for now."

    Taking the hint, Cloe looked into Xu Hua''s eyes and asked, "Now, Miss Xu, before I lose my patience, it''s better if you tell me why you did it."

    Xu Hua looked around, rubbing her hands against her clothes, but she couldn''t find an escape. "I... I was just ying a prank on him."

    "Ding, ding, ding! That''s a wrong answer," said Cloe. "Let''s try again."

    "But I''m telling the truth," argued Xu Hua as she found some courage from somewhere. Perhaps, her courage came from the fact that if she continued to stick to her story, she''ll be fine. But she was truly underestimating the people she was facing.

    Cloeughed at her, "Miss Xu, I''ve been working in the corporate world for almost 9 years now. It''s a treacherous world filled with scheming people. And do you think a little girl like you can lie to my face and escape with it? I really think you think of me as naive." She ced her hand on Xu Hua''s head and added in a serious and dangerous tone, "You better start speaking the truth. Don''t try to y with me."

    Xu Hua started tearing up again as she spilled out everything, "I... I''ve been a fan of his band from the beginning. I''ve liked Hyson for years. Recently his band member was revealed to be dating and it really hurt all the fans including me. But I always believed that Hyson wasn''t like that. However, I was proven wrong when I joined the crew. He continued to emphasize that he wanted to make a call. He kept saying how he missed someone really dear to him. It made me mad. I felt betrayed by the fact that he was also hiding a girlfriend." She sneaked a look at Amiah and continued, "I also noticed how Director Jade didn''t like him as well. I''ve always admired Director Jade. So when he argued with the Director, I couldn''t take it anymore. I just gave him the wrong directions. But trust me, I only wanted him to lose his way. I didn''t want to hurt him."

    Cloe gnashed her teeth in rage. Her hand was raised as if she was about to p her but didn''t do it. She clenched her hand and dropped it by her side.

    "That made no sense to me," said Cloe. "But it''s enough for me to take you to court for a hate crime. What you did was intentional. It wasn''t forced." She was really angry as she added, "By the way, as idols, they don''t owe fans like you an exnation. And people have families who are special to them as well. But you little girls really feel like they own the idols." She turned around to face Amiah and added, "What did you say to me? It didn''t involve you? If you hadn''t shown your dislike for Hyson so explicitly, a little assistant of yours wouldn''t be audacious enough to cause this mess!"

    During all this time, Raelle didn''t say a word. She didn''t need to. She knew Cloe could handle it herself. She only came here to see everything and hear everything in person.

    Amiah was stunned to realize that she indirectly became the reason for hurting Hyson. She had been so strongly insisting on the fact that she didn''t do anything wrong. But she didn''t realize that she was someone who gave someone else a reason to act against Hyson.

    Raelle pushed herself off the car and trotted over to Xu Hua, she looked down at her and said, "Hyson is going through surgery right now." Xu Hua looked up at her in shock. "I just want to let you know this before I drag you to court. I believe you won''t have any difficulty telling your family what you told us. After all, they deserve to know who became the reason for their downfall."

 Chapter 223 - Hellâ€™s Belle

    It wasn''t that Raelle thought this much was enough to do. No! Absolutely not!

    However, the people in her life would never let her hands get dirty with things like revenge. Raelle had never acted against people in an irrational way. Even if she did, it''d be donewfully.

    But Mu Chenyan was different. She was awless person who let her emotions drive her actions. Since she loved Raelle so much, she naturally had been the one to act against everyone who tried to hurt her. And there was no doubt that Hyson held a special ce in her life as well.

    That''s the reason when she learned that Hyson had to get surgery, she had asked Raelle to step out. The only reason she allowed Raelle to act before was that she thought Hyson''s injuries weren''t life-threatening. Now, it waspletely different. She couldn''t stay out of it now.

    While Raelle will indeed follow her procedure of dragging Xu Hua to court, Mu Chenyan had her own ns. And she didn''t want Raelle to be a part of any of it.

    "What are you gonna do?" asked Raelle on her way back to the hospital.

    "Elle, you don''t need to know that," replied Mu Chenyan. "I''m just happy you listened to me. Now, leave the rest to me. You go to the hospital and keep Yue Faipany."

    "I''m going there," said Raelle.

    "Find a goodwyer for this case," reminded Mu Chenyan. "I''m gonna hang up now."

    Although Raelle didn''t know what Mu Chenyan was gonna do, she was certain thetter''s actions won''t be simple.

    ....

    Back in the hospital, after Raelle had left Shui Xian hade to visit Hyson and even he was startled when he learned that Hyson had to get surgery.

    "You look too indifferent for someone who is about to enter the operation theater," remarked Shui Xian.

    "What indifferent? I''m more worried about what''s gonna happen," said Hyson. "I can stop Ellie but I can''t handle Yanyan."

    "Instead of being worried about your own life, you''re focused on these unimportant issues?" asked Shui Xian. "What happens to others is not your concern. And it shouldn''t be either. They are gonna reap what they sowed. Stop stimting yourself. Don''t you know that stress can make the bleeding worse?"

    "I''m fine," imed Hyson.

    "You do look fine to me as well," said Shui Xian. He wasn''t lying. From just appearance, no one could possibly tell that something was wrong with Hyson. He found it quite strange. "Fai, are you also insensitive to pain like Raelle?"

    "Not really," answered Hyson uncertainly. "Or maybe I am." He shook his head, "No. I think it''s not that we both are insensitive to pain, it''s just our perception of pain is just as twisted as we are." Heughed out, "There is a reason why we make such a good pair of best friends."

    Soon, the nurses came to prepare Hyson for the surgery and he kept looking at the door.

    "Xian Ge, can you call Ellie? She said she''ll be here before I went in."

    "I''m here," came Raelle''s voice who entered and Hyson''s face softened up.

    "Now, I''m ready then."

    As he was pushed out of the ward, he held Raelle''s hand and said, "You wait for me out here. And if I die in there, take care of my mum. Don''t let her cry, or I''ll haunt you as a ghost."

    "Stop talking nonsense," said Shui Xian. "You''ll be fine."

    Hyson smiled at Shui Xian, "Xian Ge, you don''t know that." He stared at Raelle and added, "Even the genius of our family can''t calcte the possibility of my survival." Raelle stayed quiet and didn''t reply. "Yo, Genius! You better do as I said."

    Raelle took her hand out of his grasp as she said, "Don''t worry, I''ll take better care of your mother. She''ll forget you in no time."

    Hyson made a face at her, "Heartless!"

    "Scram already!" retorted Raelle making Hyson chuckle gleefully.

    Hyson was pushed into the operation theatre while Raelle waited outside with Shui Xian. Sitting in silence for a long moment, Shui Xian asked, "Are you worried about him?"

    "Am I?" responded Raelle nkly. "I don''t know."

    It was not easy to hear ''I don''t know'' from Raelle''s mouth. She usually was very clear about her thoughts.

    She pursed her lips before she turned to look at him, "I''ve asked Yanyan to not implicate your sister. She is gonna act against Xu Hua, but she won''t do anything to your sister. Your sister isn''t directly involved but she is part of the reason, so she isn''tpletely innocent in this matter."

    "I didn''t ask about that," said Shui Xian. "I already assured you, I won''t get involved in this. You can do whatever you want."

    "She''ll being to you in person sooner rather thanter," spoke Raelle with certainty. "She is too prideful. She would rather beg in front of you than bow before the consequences of her actions."

    Shui Xian ced an arm around her shoulder and pulled her in his embrace, "It doesn''t matter. Although you don''t want to take part in my professional decisions, you''re a part of my personal life. You have all the right to decide anything in my life."

    "But as a wife, I have no righte between a brother and a sister."

    "You didn''te between us," replied Shui Xian. He kissed the top of her head and added, "What came between us are the years and time."

    Raelle''s eyes lingered on the ss door of the operation theater. For a long time, she had something on her mind but she couldn''t grasp that thought that ran amok in her head. It never happened to her before. Her thoughts had always been in her perfect control.

    "You and Fai are more simr than I thought," said Shui Xian pulling her out of her thoughts. "Not only both realize how your words can attack someone, you both have strange understanding of the world and people. It''s like you both see everything differently than the rest of the world."

    "That''s true," replied Raelle. She couldn''t disagree with his words at all. "We both do see the world differently. But that isn''t the only simrity between us."

    "I can tell," he said. "Did you inform Opa?"

    "I did," answered Raelle. "He''lleter."

    It took a while for the surgery toplete and all this while Raelle hadn''t moved from her ce. And neither did Shui Xian. Although he had some matters to attend to today, he still wasn''t willing to leave her side.

    Shui Xian couldn''t tell Raelle''s mood, but he felt relieved that Hyson''s surgery was sessful. They both followed when Hyson had been shifted to the ward again. Although the doctor said, he might take a while to wake up, it actually took him half an hour to open his eyes.

    He continued to blink as he stared at Raelle and called out, "Ellieee~~" His voice dragged out at the end.

    Raelle breathed out and warned Shui Xian, "From this moment, don''t pay attention to his words. The anesthesia works like alcohol on him. He is gonna start ramble on now."

    And staying true to Raelle''s words, Hyson started smiling like a fool and called out to her again, "Ellie! My Elle! My little Belle! You''vee straight from hell! Hehehe!"

    "If I''vee from hell, should I start sucking your soul?"

    Hyson snorted, "You already do that. Nothing is left in me already. You''re a soul eater! You''ve sucked up my innocence! And you have twisted my emotions."

    "Oh..."

    "But I still like you." He waved his finger in front of her and added, "No, no! Not just like. I love you! My love for you is as deep as the ocean." He grinned foolishly, "Do you know why I didn''t say I love you to the moon and back?"

    "Why?" Raelle yed along with him as she always did. It wasn''t her first time hearing him talk like a drunk. In fact, he never even talked like this when he was actually drunk.

    "Because you can calcte the distance from the moon to earth. Humans have stepped on the moon for years now. But the ocean is boundless. No one has ever been able to find its depth." He tapped his temple with his index finger as he went on, "Aren''t I smart?"

    "Very," replied Raelle while Shui Xian stood there with a raised brow.

    "Am I smarter than you?"

    "If that makes you feel happy, then why not," said Raelle.

    Hyson tsked, "My Hell''s Belle, don''t learn to lie now. Lying is bad. Very bad."

    "When did I lie?"

    "Didn''t you say I''m smarter than you?" He shook his head, "I''m not. In fact, there is only one genius in our family and that''s our Hell''s Belle. No one can take her ce."

    "I think if it''s you, you certainly can."

    Hyson puffed up his cheeks, "But I don''t want to."

 Chapter 224 - Learn To ...

    Hyson fell silent for a moment appearing like he had fallen asleep but he was still awake. In a barely audible voice, with his eyes closed, he said, "I don''t ever want to take something that belongs to you."

    Raelle knew what he meant by that statement. Even if being the smartest was just a title, he still didn''t want it since it belonged to her. And just like that, he could never think of taking anything that was hers.

    "Go to sleep," instructed Raelle.

    Hyson stuck his tongue out at her and acted childishly. He was so high on anesthesia that Shui Xian found it really amusing. He looked so adorable. Raelle, however, didn''t think the same.

    "I can''t sleep," answered Hyson. "Early in the morning, I heard the child in the ward next door ying a song. It''s stuck in my head. Can''t seem to get it out." He opened his eyes and looked at Raelle with sparkling eyes, "Do you want to hear the song?"

    "And if I say no," she responded.

    "Who cares about your opinion?" retorted Hyson. "If I said, I''m singing, I''m singing! That''s final! If the song is stuck in my head, it should get to you as well!"

    "As always even if I say no, you''d still tell me," said Raelle.

    "Well, I learned it from my best friend," replied Hyson cheekily.

    Then he cleared his throat and made some weird sounds to warm up his voice.

    ?Let''s learn to meow like a cat

    Let''s meow meow meow meow meow together?

    He even lifted his hand that didn''t have the IV line attached to it and made a paw, cing it cutely beside his face as he continued...

    ?Acting cute before you

    Oh my, meow meow meow meow meow

    My heart is thumping

    I''m infatuated with your smirk

    If you don''t say you love me, I''ll meow meow meow? (Song: Learn to Meow, Singer: Xiao Pan Pan and Xiao Feng Feng)

    Shui Xian pursed his lips to suppress hisughter. Although he enacted the cuteness of this song perfectly well, with his added effect of being high the end result was truly something else.

    Hyson breathed heavily as if he got tired but in fact, his throat was just dry now. He couldn''t continue.

    "Don''t know the rest of the lyrics?" asked Raelle but it sounded more like a statement.

    Hyson puffed up his cheeks and shook his head, "I don''t know. I only heard this much in the passing."

    "You have never heard this song before?" inquired Shui Xian in surprise. "It was pretty famous back in the day."

    "I didn''t hear it and even if I did, I didn''t think it was important enough to remember," replied Hyson honestly.

    From this one statement, Raelle caught on to something important. She stepped up to his side and asked, "Then what caught your attention this time? Or should I ask, what made you notice this particr song?"

    Hyson smiled at her, "Smart! Just as I say, you''re too smart." He lowered his eyes and added, "The kid next door is about fourteen, he had his mother feeding him soup while he distractedly yed games on his phone with his father. I wonder why he was listening to this song though."

    Raelle was silent in response while Shui Xian also understood what really Hyson''s words meant. He had always seen a beautiful and cheerful smile on Hyson''s face, but he always knew he was hiding something underneath that smile.

    After a moment, Raelle lifted her hand and ced it on Hyson''s head, softly ruffling his hair. Hyson leaned into her touch with his eyes closed in contentment.

    "Don''t think I''mining," he told her. "That scene didn''t make me feel sad at all. And that''s what caught my attention. I felt nothing at all. Remember I once asked you what a regr family feels like?"

    "I remember," she answered.

    Hyson chuckled softly, "I really chose the world''s worst person to ask that question though. Your understanding of a regr family is just as shallow as it''s mine. But since I couldn''t ask my mum the same question, I chose to ask you." He looked up at her continued, "I once did have the curiosity to know what a normal family is. But today, seeing that family I felt nothing. Not even curious. Not even sad."

    "Did you want to feel sad?"

    Hysonughed out, "I don''t know what I wanted to feel at that moment." He held her other hand and asked, "Ellie, do you think both of us are fortunate or unfortunate? Sometimes I wonder if we have the worst luck when ites to family or the best luck. Have you ever thought of that?" Before Raelle could reply, he went on, "Of course, you never thought about it. You won''t even think about the things that didn''t bring you any profit."

    "It''s good that you know that," said Raelle. "So, you should also stop thinking about things that aren''t beneficial to you."

    "I usually don''t do," grumbled Hyson. "It''s only when I''m sick that my mindes with all sorts of stuff."

    Raelle also knew about this habit of his. He usually didn''t think about such things. He would only do it when he was sick. After all, a sick person was always more vulnerable. He would also lose control of his emotions whenever he fell sick.

    "I know you don''t agree with my decision to hide this incident from mum," said Hyson. "And even if I tell you to put yourself in my shoes to think about it, you won''t be able to understand it. In your principles, lying is absolutely detestable. You''d never lie even if hurts someone. But my Hell''s Precious Belle, sometimes truths hurt even worse than lies do. If I can keep her happy by deceiving her, I don''t see anything wrong with it."

    "Truth is hurtful but it''s better than deception," she said with a straight face.

    Hyson smiled at her, "And this is why I always have to look for loopholes in your principles. And hiding doesn''t go against your principle. I told you, you can tell her everything but the pretext is, she has to ask you first. If she doesn''t ask, you can''t tell her the truth."

    Raelle nodded in agreement, "Indeed, you''re good at finding loopholes."

    "If I didn''t how would I enter your life?" Hyson smiled widely at her. "In fact, aren''t I a big bug who wormed his way into your life and wreaked havoc?"

    "Oh, I like this one. A big bug. That''s exactly what you are," Raelle gave him a nod.

    Hyson pointed at Shui Xian and asked, "And who is he?"

    "He is my husband," she answered.

    Hyson tsked at her and looked at Shui Xian, "Xian Ge, take good care of my best friend."

    Shui Xian was surprised by the change in him, "Do you think I won''t do it?"

    Hyson shook his head, "That''s not it. I know you''re a good person. But you see, she is quite special to all of us. We all love her very much. And since our family loves her the most, we expect you do the same. Although that''s quite selfish of us, right?"

    Shui Xian was stunned momentarily, "Do you think it''s selfish?"

    "I think it''s very selfish of us," replied Hyson. "We expect you to see her in the same way as we do. Isn''t that called selfishness? You must have your own views. And you have the right to make your own decisions as well. In fact, the worst is the emotions."

    Shui Xian smiled at him softly, "Indeed, emotions are a little unexpected." He gazed at Raelle gently as he went on, "And that''s why even I''m not able to tell how I''m falling so hard and fast for her."

    Hyson smiled proudly, "That''s no surprise. If you manage to look over her stiffness, expressionless face, blunt truths, and stupid science lectures, there is no way you''ll be able to stop yourself from loving her. But most people give up just when ites to her blunt truths."

    "Then it''s a good thing I love her blunt truths," chuckled Shui Xian.

    Raelle waved a hand between both of them, "Can you both see?"

    "Of course!" they replied simultaneously.

    "Good," she replied. "I thought I was invisible."

    The way they seemed to be talking about her in her presence made her feel like they couldn''t tell she was right there. She had never been so tantly ignored in her life.

    "Since I heard from Xian Ge that he will take care of you, I can go to sleep now," said Hyson and closed his eyes. But just after a moment, he opened his eyes again, "When can I start eating? I really am craving that ice cream." He looked at Raelle and added, "And no, I didn''t eat enough ice during my fall."

    "Sleep!"

    Hyson tsked and decided to really fall asleep. Since The Hell''s Queen Elle said ''Sleep'' he couldn''t defy the orders of a queen or else, a puny peasant like him would be blown away in ashes. Heughed at his own thoughts mentally and really fell asleep with the imagery his created in his head.

 Chapter 225 - Stop Making Trouble

    On their drive back home, both Shui Xian and Raelle had been silent. They didn''t discuss anything.

    When they arrived home, Shui Xian found Raelle staring at the empty rocking chair on the porch. He ced a hand on her shoulder and when she turned her eyes towards him, he questioned, "What are you looking at?"

    Raelle pointed at the rocking chair saying, "B¨¤ usually waited here for me." Shui Xian was startled by her words. "It''s been days I haven''t seen him here so maybe I am notfortable with that." Shui Xian''s eyes softened as he gazed at the side of her face while she continued, "I should give him a call."

    Nodding her head, Raelle entered the house. She made a beeline for the third floor to her bedroom while Shui Xian followed her.

    She was looking through her closet when Shui Xian came behind and hugged her from behind in a tight embrace. Raelle paused for a moment and tilted her head to look at her. Seeing him resting his chin on her shoulder with his eyes closed, Raelle didn''t question him anything. She continued to rummage through her clothes and Shui Xian continued to move along with her.

    "Why do I think you''re trying tofort me?" asked Raelle.

    "Huh?"

    "You''ve been patting me softly," said Raelle. "Do you think I needforting?"

    Shui Xian replied softly, "Not really." But he didn''t continue after that. His mind had been reying Hyson''s words all this while. He was indeed trying tofort her with his presence. He wanted her to know that he was here for her. With her!

    From the moment Hyson talked about ''regr families'' he had been in aplicated mood. But then again, what exactly was the definition of a ''regr family''? He grew up in a family with a father, a mother, and even a sister. But that didn''t mean his family was by any means normal.

    He was actually surprised right now to see that Raelle noticed such a small movement of his hands. Her attention was truly all around her. It was no wonder just one simple song from Hyson made her notice that Hyson was thinking of something else.

    "Maybe I needforting," he told her. "So, I''m trying to get some energy booster from you. After all, my wife is a whole package. Shees with a neverending supply of energy. You don''t mind sharing it with me, do you?"

    "I don''t mind," she replied. She ced her hand against the side of his face and added, "What''s on your mind?"

    "I''ve been thinking about what Hyson said," answered Shui Xian without trying to conceal anything from her. He felt like an open book before her. And it was a fact that she loved reading books. Now, he just wanted to be her favorite book. One that she''d want to read over and over again and never get tired of it. Just like how he felt like no matter how much time he spent with her, it was never enough.

    She was truly a full package. A package of surprises. And most people didn''t even know that he loved surprises from a young age. Only his mother knew his craze with surprises. He usually acted like he didn''t like surprises. Because as people said, he was too old to get excited about surprises.

    It was strange how his wife didn''t like surprises at all. And here he was happy to have a surprise like her in his life.

    "Don''t take Hyson''s words seriously," said Raelle pulling him out of his thoughts. "I don''t even take him seriously when he is sober. And let''s not forget, today he was out of his mind. You should forget whatever he said."

    Shui Xian nuzzled into the crook of her neck, inhaling deeply as he whispered, "But what to do? I really want to take his words seriously and take care of you."

    "Okay. Do whatever you want," said Raelle as she finally found some clothes and walked out of the closet. Just like before, Shui Xian was still following her in the same back hug posture. Even when Raelle entered the bathroom, he was still stuck to her. "So, Hubby, are you finally gonna follow my suggestion?"

    Shui Xian raised his brows inquisitively at her.

    Raelle shrugged her shoulders, "It doesn''t matter though. I still don''t mind having a shower with you."

    Only then did Shui Xian realize what she meant and bumped his head at the side of her head gently. "Wifey, what really goes on this brain of yours?"

    "Hyson says my brain is like a circus. All sorts of things run around in this brain. Unrestrained."

    Shui Xian chuckled as he turned her around and cing his hands on her waist, he picked her up and ced her on the vanity countertop. Raelle''s eyes widened ever so slightly because of this sudden movement and blinked at him.

    He pushed her hair out of the way and leaned over. With his forehead against hers, he said, "I must be the only husband who is hesitating before such an exciting offer from my wife."

    "You must be," replied Raelle.

    Shui Xian kissed the tip of her nose, "You look gorgeous right now."

    Raelle looked down at her clothes that were rather simple and in. "What''s gorgeous about this?"

    "Who said I''m talking about the clothes? I''m talking about my own wife who is gorgeous."

    "Oh?" Shui Xian nodded his head in agreement. "Then don''t you think this wife will look even more gorgeous with her clothes off?"

    Shui Xian was stumped for words before her frank statement but he still nodded in a daze, "My wife sure looks mesmerizing in every way possible."

    She held up his hand against her own face and went on, "Then just imagine this satin skin under the showerhead. With water drizzling down slowly and smoothly in a beautiful movement. Sounds exciting enough?"

    Shui Xian licked his lips as he breathes against her skin, "Are you trying to seduce me?"

    "Is it working?"

    "Oh, it''s working. It''s really working."

    Raelle nodded her head, "Good thing my time wasn''t wasted on that romance novel. I did learn something from it."

    Shui Xian dropped a kiss at the corner of her lips as he said, "You being you is enough to drive me crazy. You don''t need to learn anything." He patted her head and went on, "Now, you should enjoy your shower."

    Before he could leave, she held his hand, "You really aren''t gonna stay?"

    Shui Xian took a deep breath, "Aren''t you on your rainy days?"

    "I am."

    "Then stop making trouble and don''t make it difficult for me more than it already is."

    Shui Xian left the bathroom leaving her alone. He came out and picked up his phone to scroll through it. He had not taken his phone with him when he went to this hospital. He knew it''d be disturbing. But who knew he''d find so many missed calls when he came back?

    Suddenly the door of the bathroom opened slightly. And Raelle''s head poked out as she called him out, "Hubby!"

    "Hm?" Shui Xian shifted his eyes towards her.

    "I can tell Hyson''s words bothered you," she began. "But I can assure you whether his or mine families fit into the standards of the normal family or not, one thing we both nevercked was ''love.'' I might not be the right person to talk about love but as Hyson said, everyone in our family has given me that ''love'' in their own ways."

    When she closed the door, Shui Xian was left in a daze for a moment. Her words made him realize that she was right. The love that Hyson and Raelle received from the people they called family was truly capable of making anyone feel envious. Even after years, he didn''t have such a strong bond with his own father as Hyson and Raelle did with their family.

    And apparently, his family was considered a normal one.

    Suddenly, the ring of his phone caught his attention. He picked up the call, "I''m not in the mood for a drink, Yanjun. And I don''t think I''ll ever be again."

    Zhai Yanjun didn''t even get the chance to say hello before he was shoved with those words. "Well, hello to you too, Master Xian."

    "Captain, there is no need to be so formal with me," replied Shui Xian, seemingly in a good mood.

    Zhai Yanjun took a moment to ask, "Are you alright? Found something more exciting than alcohol?"

    "Try getting a wife," answered Shui Xian.

    Zhai Yanjun almost choked on air, "You are looking for a beating."

    "Oh?" responded Shui Xian indifferently. "Come here. Let''s see who will beat whom." He took a moment and asked, "Forget about that. Why are you calling me all of a sudden? Did youe back already? Are you ready for that dinner you owe me and my wife?"

 Chapter 226 - Casual Talk

    Zhai Yanjun tsked at Shui Xian''s words and said, "Do you have any conscience? Or that has also been frozen by your coldness?" He took a heavy breath and went on, "Instead of asking me if I''m doing well or not, you actually are more concerned about the meal I owe you?"

    "If you''re in the mood to use sarcasm with me, it''s obvious that you''re doing well," replied Shui Xian. "But I''ll still ask you. How are you?"

    Zhai Yanjun calmed down just with that one question and replied in a pleasant mood, "I''m doing good. How about you?" Before Shui Xian could reply, he went on, "Don''t answer that. I can even hear gloating in your voice. That means you''re doing better than ever."

    Shui Xian walked over to the chaise and slumped down, "Yanjun, I actually feel like you know me quite well. You can even tell I''m doing better than ever. And indeed, I am. I haven''t felt this good and lighthearted in a long time now."

    "Of course, I can tell that already," replied Zhai Yanjun. He hadn''t heard Shui Xian talking in such a lighthearted way in a long time as well. Although the young Shui Xian was cheery and charming, heter turned into a stiff board that barely even spoke out his true feelings.

    "How did you think of calling me today?" inquired Shui Xian making casual small talk.

    "I just wanted to know about your health."

    "That''s all?" Shui Xian''s brows quirked up in surprise which Zhai Yanjun couldn''t see.

    "That is all!" answered Zhai Yanjun honestly.

    Shui Xian was silent for a moment before asking, "Are you sure that''s all?"

    "Why are you so surprised?"

    "It''s because we don''t call each other just for having small talks," told Shui Xian.

    And he was telling the truth. The rtionship between Shui Xian and Zhai Yanjun was strange. They had known each other since they were in their diapers. And they had even been ymates when they were young. But they never became good friends. Even now, they only described their rtionship as an acquaintance. However, that was the wrong word.

    They both knew about each other more than even a best friend would do. But they never reached out to each other for small talks.

    "But today I wanted to change that," replied Zhai Yanjun.

    "Why?"

    Zhai Yanjun thought of something and said, "Xian, yesterday I went to the hospital to see a senior of mine. He got injured in a recent mission. He has no friends because he had always been a workaholic. Even though he was supposed to be on a vacation, he still took that dangerous mission. That can tell you how much of a workaholic he is."

    Shui Xian listened to him attentively. "But why are you telling me this?"

    "As I said, he devoted all his life to this country. But in the hospital, the only people who came to see him were those from his work. There was no friend around him. And that made me realize that I don''t want to end in the same situation one day."

    "Huh?"

    Zhai Yanjun cleared his throat and went on, "So, I''m telling you, whatever happens to me in the future, you bettere to see me. I don''t want to seem like a pitiful person who has no friends!"

    "But you really have no friends," reminded Shui Xian with his lips curled up. He was just teasing Zhai Yanjun because he was quite amused by his words.

    "Then who the hell are you?" shouted Zhai Yanjun.

    "Me? I just know you casually," replied Shui Xian.

    "Xian, I''m really gonna beat you now. For years, I''ve been your drinking buddy. Are you telling me all those hours I spent listening to you were wasted?"

    "I also listened to you," said Shui Xian. "Is there still a time when you didn''te to tell me that your girlfriend broke your heart?"

    "And that is why I''m saying this," argued Zhai Yanjun. "We haveid bare our deepest scars before each other. That actually means we are closer."

    "Alright. Next time, you end up in this hospital, let me know. I''ll be there with the biggest fruit basket for you."

    "Are you cursing me right now?" retorted Zhai Yanjun making Shui Xian chuckled silently. "You can look for me without a reason as well. Just like I did."

    Shui Xian shook his head, "When are youing back?"

    "I was supposed toe back this week but something cropped up."

    Just like that both of them had a conversation over the phone until Raelle came out of the bathroom. Shui Xian threw his phone aside and said, "Yanjun is saying hello to you."

    Raelle gave him a nod to show that she heard it.

    "By the way, shouldn''t you avoid taking showers so much in your condition?"

    Raelle ran her fingers through her hair that she had already dried inside the bathroom and replied, "We just came back from the hospital. I had to take a shower. You should too."

    "Hospitals are quite clean though," said Shui Xian. "You can always smell the disinfectants."

    "Hospitals have the most germs," replied Raelle in a certain tone.

    Shui Xian didn''t want to argue over germs now. So, taking themand of his wife, he indeed went to take another shower.

    ....

    "Yue, you enjoy the hotpot. I have to take this call, so I''ll be right back," said Mu Chenyan as she stood up with her phone and walked out of the private room.

    She had brought Yue Yue out to try the hotpot she used to love when she young. But she wasn''t able to enjoy it. There was no doubt that the taste was just as authentic and delicious as she recalled. But currently, her mind was elsewhere and she couldn''t share this with Yue Yue either.

    What weighed down on her mind wasn''t Hyson''s condition but the fact that she was hiding it all from Yue Yue. She called Yue Yue her best friend and she knew she was going against the code of friends by doing this. But she couldn''t go against Elle''s words as well.

    She was stuck in a dilemma.

    But that won''t change her decision to make those who Hyson pay for it. It was a serious matter. And just teaching a small lesson was never her style of doing things.

    Mu Chenyan found a corner and took the call, "What''s the situation?" When she heard the details from the person on the other side, she said, "What do you mean by she is young and her life will be ruined? Our family''s son could have lost his life but I can''t even ruin someone''s life? You better get her rusticated from her university! In fact, after the case goes to court, her school will definitely get rid of her." She quietly listened to the other person before adding, "You just follow what I said. This whole issue won''t just end in court. There is no way my Elle would settle with marypensation. She''ll do everything to send that tiny girl behind bars and I have more than one ways to make her life hell in there!" She took a pause and added, "Just because I have smoothened my scales, doesn''t mean they have lost their sharpness. Whoever dared to hurt my son has to suffer!"

    "Son?"

    Mu Chenyan''s body stiffened when she heard that voice from behind her.

    "When did you have a son?"

    Mu Chenyan disconnected the call and licked her dry lips before slowly turning her body around to face the person who was questioning her.

    "Why do you care?" she tried to act haughty as she stared him down.

    "As your brother, I should know about it, no?"

    Mu Chenyan looked at the face of Xiang Hulin and answered, "But I don''t want to tell you."

    "If you can''t tell me about that, then do you also mind telling me what''s wrong? Why do you look ready to hack someone to death?"

    "Because I feel like hacking someone to death right now," replied Mu Chenyan while cracking her knuckles. She took a deep breath and changed the topic, "What are you doing here? Are you following me now?"

    "This isn''t just your favorite hotpot ce," reminded Xiang Hulin. "Don''t forget that the one who used to sneak out with you to eat hotpot here was me."

    "I haven''t forgotten," grumbled Mu Chenyan. When she came to Nanzhou, she did expect to run into Xiang Hulin. But she didn''t expect to run into him twice in a row. She didn''t know whether it was her good luck or bad luck.

    Now that he wasn''t wearing his uniform, Mu Chenyan observed him carefully before she passed by him saying, "Then General Xiang, enjoy your meal. And don''t forget to eat more meat."

    As she walked away, he called from behind with a smile hanging at his lips, "Chen Chen, are you concerned about me?"

    Mu Chenyan didn''t even stop to spare him another nce and kept walking farther away from him.

 Chapter 227 - Nostalgia

    Mu Chenyan was fuming when she went back to the private room where Yue was engrossed in eating the hotpot. Since Mu Chenyan told her to enjoy the hotpot, she did exactly that. Not in the least being polite by even waiting for her to return.

    Seeing the look on her face, Yue put her chopsticks down and inquired, ''Why do you look like you''re ready to murder someone?''

    "Because I want to murder someone," retorted Mu Chenyan. She sighed and sat down as she held her head and rubbed her temples to ease the pain. Suddenly, she started talking, "You know, I used to loveing here. Whenever Elder Xiang or his wife grounded me, Ge would always help me sneak out the window and bring me here to lift up my mood. It was our little secret."

    Yue tapped her hand on the table to make Mu Chenyan look up at her and then she used the hand signs tomunicate with her again, ''Why are you being nostalgic all of a sudden?''

    "I ran into my Ge outside," told Mu Chenyan. "I didn''t expect him to stille here. Or maybe I did expect it."

    ''Feelingplicated?''

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head, "I really am feelingplicated. I''m happy to see him here and at the same time, I''m sad about it as well." She leaned over the table as she asked, "I''ve lost my mind, right?"

    Yue didn''t act polite at all and frankly nodded her head in agreement.

    Mu Chenyan snickered at her, "Yue, friends shouldn''t do this."

    Yue''s brows knitted up before she responded, ''But that''s the friendship that Yue Fai and Raelle have.''

    Mu Chenyan thought about it and could only agree with her over this. The friendship between Yue Fai and Raelle was indeed something like this.

    "Don''tpare them with us. Those two are strange people and their friendship is even stranger. Let''s not enter their strange world." Mu Chenyan didn''t just say it, she actually believed in her own words. Who wouldn''t believe it? She had seen them grow up and she had seen their friendship grow as well. There was no doubt that both of them were strange in their own ways. One didn''t know how to express her feelings and the other didn''t want to express his feelings. None of the two was pure ck or white. They were both grey. It was just that both Hyson and Raelle had their own particr shades of grey.

    Yue silentlyughed but she also could only agree.

    Both women ate and chatted for a long time. When Mu Chenyan was paying for their meal, Yue was busy looking at the little girl who was ying in the corridor all by herself. Seeing her talking to herself as she yed, Yue had a soft and nostalgic smile on her face. The little girl continued to throw her ball and keptughing and talking all by herself. And she looked really happy in her own world.

    "What are you smiling about?" inquired Mu Chenyan.

    Yue pointed at the little girl and told her, ''I just suddenly felt a rush of memories settle in. Fai used to y like this.'' Her smile dampened a little as she added, ''He didn''t have any friends so he yed by himself. He even used to talk to himself. It really gave me a headache back then but with time, I got used to it.''

    Mu Chenyan patted her shoulder, "Only smart people talk to themselves. Even Elle used to do it. But her talking was different, she acted like a professor who was giving a lecture. As for ying... I wish she had an interest in that." She shook her head helplessly, "The only time Elle picked a ball was when she wanted to perform the experiments like a bouncing ball or the ball drop." She had been happily emerged in her memories when suddenly she caught sight of Xiang Hulin and tugged at Yue''s arm saying, "Let''s get out of here now."

    Yue didn''t refuse and let herself be dragged along. Only when they reached the car did Mu Chenyan opened her mouth in confusion. "I wonder when did Ge be friends with that Zhai Kuijun. They weren''t this close back in the days." She was surprised to see Zhai Kuijun with Xiang Hulin again today. That meant they hade to eat here together.

    Although their fathers, Xiang Tianyu and Zhai Feiyang had a deep friendship, these two men really weren''t this close in their early years. Because their interests didn''t match. One wanted to be a soldier and the other always had a business mind.

    Yue stiffened when she heard the name Zhai Kuijun from Mu Chenyan. She didn''t want to probe but she couldn''t help it either as she asked, ''Who is he?''

    "Who? Zhai Kuijun?" Yue nodded her head and Mu Chenyan sighed out, "He is just a family friend. Didn''t you meet his parentsst week? They are friends with Elder Xiang and that''s why I know him a little." She took a pause and added, "But I don''t know him personally that well. I''ve only heard things about him. I had a very diverse group of friends so I got to hear all sorts of gossips."

    Yue didn''t try to continue this topic since she didn''t want Mu Chenyan''s astute nature to pick up anything from her expressions or words. She didn''t really want to hide the whole truth from Mu Chenyan either but after all these years, but she didn''t want to recall those memories again. Not just because the memories were painful but also because she hade too far from all of that now.

    Talking about the past would only push her back into that past. And it was not that she couldn''t face her past. She had nothing to be ashamed about. But she wanted to keep her distance from that past of hers. If not for herself then for her son.

 Chapter 228 - Make Me Repeat

    "I heard your parents moved to Kia City because of Yanjun," Xiang Hulin was talking to Zhai Kuijun as they came out after having a meal. "Are you also gonna live with them?"

    "What am I? Five?" retorted Zhai Kuijun. "Why would I live with my parents?" He took a pause and added, "But I will pay them a visit. Do you..." His words trailed off as his eyes set on a familiar figure. But within a second, that familiar figure was gone. He ran over to look and even went out of the restaurant but couldn''t find that figure again.

    "Kuijun, what''s wrong?" inquired Xiang Hulin as he caught up with him. "Who are you looking for?"

    "Just now..." Zhai Kuijun took a pause to catch his breath before adding, "I thought I saw her."

    "Who?"

    "Yue Yue," he replied in a daze.

    Xiang Hulin hit his shoulder, "Just yesterday, you didn''t want to talk about her and now, you are even seeing her?"

    Zhai Kuijun was pulled out of his thoughts by his words as he frowned, "When did I say I don''t want to talk about her?"

    "Didn''t you say yesterday, that you don''t talk about her?" reminded Xiang Hulin.

    Zhai Kuijun shook his head, "No, I meant I haven''t heard anyone around me talking about her. Especially her family. It''s like it''s a crime to bring up her name." He sighed out heavily, "But why did you assume I wouldn''t want to talk about her? She was my closest friend. Even before I married her sister, she was my friend. I have no reason to hate her. In fact, I don''t think anyone can hate her."

    "Her parents do," said Xiang Hulin. "Also, your wife as well."

    "That''s the mystery, Hulin," replied Zhai Kuijun helplessly. "No one is willing to even tell what she did wrong. If I so much as say her name out loud, my wife starts throwing things at me."

    Xiang Hulin waited a while before inquiring, "Are you sure you just saw her? Alive? And it wasn''t just your mind ying games with you?"

    Zhai Kuijun called back to the scene and frowned, "Maybe my mind is indeed ying games with me." He took a pause and caught on to something as he stared at Xiang Hulin, "And what the hell do you mean by ''Alive?'' Of course, she is alive! Even if what I saw was wrong, she is still alive."

    "How are you so certain?" Xiang Hulin shot back. Zhai Kuijun went silent in reply. "You know, there are plenty of rumors. Some people say that she is dead. Some people say that she ran away with someone. Some even say that she is still imprisoned inside the Yue Manor. In a dark room, all alone and helpless."

    Zhai Kuijun kicked him away, "Hulin, seriously? What nonsense is this?"

    "I''m just telling you a couple of bizarre versions of the rumors that had been circting for years. It''s not my fault that people have rich imaginations." Since no one knew the truth behind the Yue family''s second miss''s disappearance, people came up with their own versions to feed their curiosity and gossipy minds.

    "Howe I''ve never heard any of it in all those years?" inquired Zhai Kuijun incredulously.

    "You''re Yue family''s son-inw, who would dare talk casually around you?" He took a moment before asking, "By the way, it was because of Yue Yue that you met your wife, right?" Zhai Kuijun nodded in agreement. "Then why didn''t you try to help her?"

    "I wasn''t around when she left," replied Zhai Kuijun. "By the time, I came back, it was already toote. I couldn''t find her anywhere. Don''t you remember, I even tried to use your position to find her whereabouts but it was to no avail. She really disappeared. Even you couldn''t find her."

    Xiang Hulin sighed helplessly, "That can''t be helped, bro. Back then, technology wasn''t as advanced as it is now. Even the surveince cameras were not thatmon. I tried my best."

    "I know," replied Zhai Kuijun. "She just didn''t want to be found. So, she hid perfectly. I just wish she is doing well wherever she is. And I also hope, she is happy."

    "Well, that''s all you can do anyway," added Xiang Hulin.

    Zhai Kuijun gave him a look before saying, "I''m going to Kia City to see my parents next week. Do you want toe along?"

    "Why would I go with you to see your parents?"

    "Because your father is also in Kia City. Not only that, but even your youngest one is also there. There is a possibility that you might have a chance to encounter her like you just met Mu Chenyan twice. Are you sure you don''t want to try?"

    Xiang Hulin was tempted by his words but he still held himself back. "I can''t."

    "Why?" questioned Zhai Kuijun.

    "You know why," answered Xiang Hulin. "Don''t make me repeat it."

    "Well, I won''t say hi to your daughter even if I ran into her," said Zhai Kuijun. "In fact, I think I should actively go over to look for her. If I go to see Koshing, it''ll be easier to meet her."

    "Will you shut up?"

    Zhai Kuijun grinned at him slyly, "Why? Are you jealous that I can meet your daughter so easily?"

    "YES!" eximed Xiang Hulin at his face. "I am jealous! Are you happy now?!"

    Zhai Kuijun retracted his grin and patted Xiang Hulin''s shoulder, "Don''t worry. You''re not allowed to seek her out but there is a possibility that she mighte to look for you."

    Xiang Hulin smiled bitterly, "That will never happen, Kuijun. She will nevere to look for me." Although he wasn''t familiar with Raelle, his heart still believed that she won''te. For some reason, he wasn''t even willing to have a slight hope regarding this. It was pointless, after all.

    If only he knew how true his thoughts really were.

 Chapter 229 - Battle

    Since Raelle said she''ll call B¨¤, she did exactly that. In the evening, she gave him a video call. As the call connected and Shui Koshing''s face appeared on the screen, Raelle waved her hand at him, "Hi, B¨¤!"

    Shui Koshing''s face brightened up when he saw Raelle''s face, "My darling daughter, how are you doing?"

    "I miss you!" replied Raelle almost instantly catching Shui Koshing off guard. He was really taken aback by her words. "I looked it up. What I''m feeling right now is definitely called missing someone."

    "Oh?" responded Shui Koshing as he leaned his head against the headboard of the bed.

    "It''s true. When Ie home, you''re not waiting for me. That makes me feel like something is wrong around me. I can''t y games with you either or discuss the book you''re reading. I don''t like it. Come back, eh?"

    Shui Koshing''s heart instantly melted in a puddle to the point that his eyes started tearing up. He didn''t know what to say to her.

    "I miss you more," he told her honestly.

    "You do?" inquired Raelle.

    Shui Koshing nodded his head, "I do."

    "Then when are youing back?" she asked.

    "Soon," he replied.

    "Be specific. Just a couple of hours from now can also be described as soon and a couple of days from now can also be described as soon. Which soon are you talking about? Be more specific with me."

    Shui Koshing chuckled helplessly at her words and said, "How about I give you a surprise?"

    "I don''t like surprises though," answered Raelle. "I like to know everything beforehand."

    "Okay. Then I''ming in a couple of days. Is that a specific enough answer?"

    "It''s eptable," she replied.

    Shui Koshing patted his chest in relief, "Oh, that''s good."

    Shui Xian came to sit beside Raelle and naturally draped his arm around her shoulders as he looked at the screen and greeted his father.

    "No one is bothering you there, right?" asked Shui Xian.

    Shui Koshing looked at him disapprovingly, "Who can bother me? Just being Master Xian''s father is enough to make people keep their distance and manners." He took a pause and added, "I wonder the level of reverence when they learned that my daughter-inw is President Raelle."

    "It seems you''re enjoying yourself,"mented Shui Xian with a smile tugging at his lips.

    Shui Koshingmented, "There is nothing to enjoy here though. I left you both there, how can I enjoy here all alone?"

    "Should wee to give youpany?" asked Shui Xian yfully.

    "There is no need, son," replied Shui Koshing and looked at Raelle. "Did my son cause any trouble for you?"

    Before Raelle could answer, Shui Xian spoke up in his own defense, "B¨¤, am I a troublemaker? I''m the most well-behaved one in this house."

    Shui Koshing gave him a, "Ha!" before he ignored him and turned to Raelle, "He is taking care of you?"

    Raelle nodded her head, "He is good at taking care of people. There is no other problem except that he has been repeatedly saying no to my suggestion of having a ba... mmph!" Shui Xian had ced his hand over her mouth before she could finish her sentence. He really didn''t think she''d bring it up before his father toin like this.

    "Wifey, B¨¤ doesn''t need to know this."

    Raelle blinked at him.

    "It''s between us."

    Raelle tapped his hand that was over her mouth and as he put it down, she went on, "I was gonna say you''re refusing to take my suggestion regarding having a battle in the game. Didn''t you say you don''t want to?" She leaned her face close to his ear as she whispered, "What did you think about, Hubby?"

    Shui Xian''s ears turned red. Not just because of her breath fanning over his ear but also because of embarrassment. He thought she was gonna bring up the discussion of ''having a bath together'' but she ended up talking about the game they were ying in a team.

    "Xian, why are you refusing?" asked Shui Koshing after clearing his throat. "Are you scared of losing?"

    "Yes, B¨¤!" agreed Shui Xian without hesitation. "I''m actually scared of losing from her in the arena battle. My ranking will drop if I lost from her."

    Shui Koshing smiled in amusement before he tsked at his son, "Can''t you even do this much for your wife?"

    Raelle also chose this moment to tug at his sleeve as she asked, "Right, can''t you do this much for your wife?"

    "Fuck!" Shui Xian cursed under his breath. "Fine! Fine! Let''s have that arena battle. But I''ll be the one choosing the bet."

    "Okay. What are we betting?" inquired Raelle.

    "If you lost, your character has to get married to my character in the game!"

    "And If I won?"

    "Then my character will marry your character!" he answered cheekily.

    "How is that different?" asked Raelle. "Do you think you can fool me with this?"

    "I''m not trying to," replied Shui Xian. He looked at his father, "B¨¤, you be the judge of it. If her character marries mine, it means I''m taking her home. But If my character is marrying hers, that means she is taking him home. Is that the same thing?"

    Shui Koshing really wanted to smack his son for making such a childish bet but it really made him feel happy as well. Such a small matter of ying games and they were already happy and content with it. How could he be not happy to see all of it?

    "It''s not the same," he answered.

    Raelle thought about it before just going along with her husband and her father-inw, since she could see the smiles on their faces by doing so, she just chose to do so, "Fine. Just set the time for the battle!"

    Shui Xian was already more than happy to get this agreement as he kissed her cheek and said, "Then it''s settled."

    As they continued to chat about random things, the time passed without any of them realizing it at all. Shui Koshing felt like he was just there with them enjoying his evening with his kids. He had been missing this feeling for days. But just after seeing his kids did he realize just how much he was missing all of it.

 Chapter 230 - Bottom Line

    Families are strange. A persones into your life and makes you feel like they had been here from the beginning. And some make you feel like a stranger even though you''ve spent years with them.

    Raelle''s presence was something simr to both Shui Koshing and Shui Xian. When did she manage to naturally find her ce in their small family, even they both couldn''t figure it out. Even his own daughter never made him feel this way as Raelle did. And the more he felt this way, the more Shui Koshing believed that it was the right decision to get her married to Shui Xian.

    He didn''t even realize when or how times passed while talking to Raelle and Shui Xian. He knew his son was bing more talkative with her around. And Shui Koshing loved every single change in Shui Xian. No matter how small the change was, he knew it was enough to bring out his son from the abyss he had willingly jumped into back then.

    Meanwhile, Shui Xian might not know what his father was thinking but his own thoughts weren''t much different either. He loved these interactions with his family. Although he wished his sister was a part of it, however, he was far from trying to actively pull her in when she adamantly refused to be a part of this family.

    After the phone call with Shui Koshing, Shui Xian was still insisting on that ''battle.''

    "Don''t try to go back on your words," said Shui Xian.

    Raelle gave him a look, "I have my own principals. Of course, I won''t go back on my words."

    Shui Xian smiled at her in approval before they sat down to y the game named, ''Battle of Demons and Gods.'' The game was adapted from a novel. One could y as different races, for instance, one could be a God, a Saint, a Demon, Human, Ghost, Spirit Beasts, etc.

    Shui Xian''s character happened to be God and quite surprisingly he was actually someone who topped the ranking list of the yers. Seeing this, Raelle gave him another look, "Hubby, isn''t this abuse of power?"

    Shui Xian gave her an incredulous look, "How so?"

    "The game is developed by yourpany," reminded Raelle patiently.

    Shui Xian shrugged his shoulders, "Not like I was involved in the creating process. I have no cheats either. I was just given an ount to check the game when it wasunched. Whenever I was free, I just yed it to refresh myself. This can''t count as an abuse of power."

    "If you say so," replied Raelle.

    When Shui Xian checked her ranking, he was rather taken by surprise for some reason. Earlier, the topic of this game came out of the blue and when he learned that she knew about the game and even had an ount, he was even more surprised but now seeing her ranking he had no words at all.

    "Stop focusing on me. Would you like to exin to me howe you''re at no 3 on the ranking list. I don''t think you y games to refresh yourself."

    Raelle nodded her head, "That''s true. I usually don''t y unless Hyson whine to make me y. I bought one of the ounts in the top 10 when Hyson asked me to join the game."

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched at her, ''bought one of the top 10 ounts.'' How noble of her!

    "Now, that''s certainly an abuse of power!" he retorted.

    Raelle stared nkly at him, "How so? I have money. I can buy it. How is it counted as abuse of power?"

    Shui Xian''s lips parted but nothing came out of it. She was right actually. She had the means to get the ount and she did it rightfully. It''s not like she stole it. But even after convincing himself with these words, he didn''t know why something didn''t feel right about it.

    He sighed out and put on his headphone saying, "I just came to realize that once it''s about Hyson, your bottom line goes way low."

    "What do you mean?"

    "It means, you''ll even do things you don''t like to do as long as he is the one asking you to do it."

    Raelle couldn''t refute those words. She indeed had done way too many things which weren''t like her when it came to Hyson. Let''s just take ying video games and going to movies as two examples. Someone like Raelle wouldn''t usually do either, but she had yed different video games because of Hyson and she had gone to plenty of movies as well. Now that was different that she always dragged Hyson to watch a horror movie just to make him give up on taking her out to movies.

    However, they both never gave up. Neither Hyson stopped taking her out to movies, nor did she stop always choosing a horror movie for him. Even if a horror movie wasn''t ying, she''d pay the cinema to screen one just for the two of them.

    While both husband and wife took their game characters to the battle arena for a duel, Shui Xian suggested, "Wifey, how about we stay at the apartment for the next couple of days. The one that B¨¤ prepared as our marriage house."

    "Okay," agreed Raelle making Shui Xian feel surprised that she agreed without any questions.

    Since she didn''t ask, he decided to tell her on his own ord, "I think it''s better to stay there since it''s closer to both our workces. Besides, the hospital where Yue Fai is staying is only a five-minute drive from there."

    "Got it," replied Raelle. "Let''s head there after visiting Hyson in the morning."

    "That''s exactly what I was thinking," said Shui Xian. "You just take your work stuff with you, everything else is already arranged there." He took a pause before asking, "You didn''t ask Cloe to be with Yue Fai tonight, right?"

    "Why would I? Doesn''t she have her own life?" retorted Raelle. "Opa is staying with Hyson. Why would he need anyone else?"

    "That''s good," was all that Shui Xian said.

 Chapter 231 - What A Surprise!

    Hyson woke up early in the morning. Through the windows, the early morning rays of the sun shined inside the room. The early morning breeze made the curtains flutter lightly. He could hear the sound of the machines around him but his eyes were focused on the window in the room.

    It took a while for his vision to clear up and only then he shifted his eyes to check his surroundings. Probably he slept for too long since it took him a minute to remember where he was and what he was doing here in the first ce.

    But just because he recalled the reason for being here didn''t mean he was happy to be here. If anything finding himself alone in this hospital room made his heart beat abnormally.

    "Are you awake?"

    Hearing the gentle but aged voice, Hyson felt his heart rxing and breathed a sigh of relief. Pulling his lips into a smile, he turned his head and only now found that Xiang Tianyu had been in the room all along.

    Hyson parted his dry lips but no sound came out of his mouth. Xiang Tianyu operated his wheelchair and wheeled over to his side. He poured a cup of hot water for Hyson into a cup and put a straw in it before bringing it to Hyson''s lips. Hyson immediately took a sip to wet his dry throat that had been itching just now.

    Then he faced Xiang Tianyu and asked, "What are you doing here, Tianyu?"

    "Keep calling my name so carefreely and one day I''m gonna end up smacking your butt!"

    Hyson giggled in response to those words. He knew those were just verbal threats that held no weight at all. But he still decided to behave. "Opa, don''t be mad. I''m just feeling bad seeing you here. Shouldn''t you be taking care of your health? Why are you here?"

    Xiang Tianyu ruffled his hair gently, "I won''t be reassured leaving you here alone. Since both Chenyan and Yue are not around, I have to be the responsible elder here."

    "Sorry!" muttered Hyson. "I bothered you so much."

    "Stop acting like we are strangers now," said Xiang Tianyu.

    After that Hyson didn''t bring up this topic. He allowed Xiang Tianyu to take care of him. It was enough for Hyson to have a chatting partner but now that the chatting partner was Xiang Tianyu, he was even happier. He had always loved spending time with this elder.

    Hyson had just taken his phone to y with it when he received a call from Mu Chenyan. He had yet to ce the phone against his ear but he could clearly hear her voice, "Yue Fai! What am I supposed to do with you? Do you know how worried I was when I learned you had to undergo surgery?"

    Hysonughed foolishly in reply not knowing what to say.

    "Oh, shut up! I so want to smack your head right now!"

    Hyson instantly pursed his lips and allowed her to lecture him. He didn''t mind it. He knew she was worried about him. The love he received from Mu Chenyan and Xiang Tianyu was no less than what he got from his own mother. And he loved them a lot as well. As a family and being the one from the younger generation, it was okay for him to listen to some lectures from the older generation.

    "Yanyan, did you tell my mum?" That''s all he asked when she was done scolding him for being careless.

    "I didn''t..." she answered. "Yet. But I can only hold back for a week at most. After that, I''ll bring her back and you''re on your own."

    "That''s okay," said Hyson happily. "I''ll most likely be discharged from the hospital by then. As long as she doesn''t see me on the hospital bed, it''d be fine."

    Mu Chenyan didn''t know what to say to him. He certainly was lying to his mother and it was wrong to do so. But she knew he had a very good reason for doing so. It really made one wonder if lying was the right thing to do?

    "Get well soon. I''ll call youter," Mu Chenyan hung up after that.

    Hyson stared at his phone in a daze and suddenly thought of something, his eyes lifted up as he gazed at Xiang Tianyu who was looking back at him. Seeing the look in his eyes, Xiang Tianyu inquired, "What is it? Just say what''s on your mind. It''s a proven fact you''ll get a stomachache from keeping it in."

    Hyson grinned at him and told him, "I met your grandson."

    "What a surprise!" said Xiang Tianyu. "Me too."

    "Huh?" Hyson stared at him incredulously. "When did you meet him?"

    "Just now," answered Xiang Tianyu.

    "Where?" Hyson further asked.

    Xiang Tianyu pointed at him and added, "He is right here."

    Figuring out what he meant, Hyson puffed up his cheeks, "Opa, don''t do that."

    "What? Are you saying you don''t want to be my grandson now?"

    Hyson shook his head frantically, "No way! I just want one grandfather and that''s you. I don''t want anyone else." Hyson sincerely meant it and it particrly showed in his bright eyes as well. "Don''t try to change the subject. I meant to say I met Ellie''s brother."

    Xiang Tianyu pressed his lips together before saying, "I heard about that. But I wonder why you''re bringing this up now?"

    Hyson looked around, acting all mysterious before he said, "It''s because I feel like he holds a lot of resemnce with you. Although I saw a hint of Ellie in him, it wasn''t that obvious. More obvious was the fact that he looked like a younger version of you."

    "Oh," said Xiang Tianyu carelessly.

    Hyson tsked at that reaction, "Such a nd reaction would make people think you don''t care about your grandson."

    "What makes you think I care about him?"

    Hyson gave him a look, "Opa, let''s be honest here. You love your grandson. Maybe a little less than you love me, but you do love him. Now, don''t make me reveal all your secrets."

    Xiang Tianyu''s eyes shed with an indescribable emotion before he smiled at Hyson, "My little Prince, why don''t you really let it all out today?"

    "I can''t," replied Hyson. "We are in a hospital and you never know when someone is eavesdropping. So, take the hint."

    Xiang Tianyu was amused by Hyson''s reaction, to say the least. He lovingly rubbed his head but didn''t say anything else to him. What kind of attitude he had towards his other grandchildren aside from Raelle, only he was clear about it. But it seemed Hyson was quite clear about it as well.

    But then again, he was Raelle Xiang''s best friend. There had to be some shrewdness that rubbed off on him.

 Chapter 232 - Havenâ€™t Looked Enough

    The moment Raelle and Shui Xian came to see Hyson at the hospital, only silence greeted them in the room. Shui Xian was quite surprised to find that not only Hyson was awake but he was also exceptionally quiet.

    Even he had figured out by now that Hyson wasn''t really the quiet type. And that''s why his current silence was making Shui Xian feel edgy.

    "Opa!" Raelle called out.

    Both Hyson and Grandfather Xiang looked up and red at her before putting a finger on their lips telling her to, ''Shh!''

    The only reaction to this treatment was Raelle shrugging her shoulders and pulling her husband to sit down in the corner. Shui Xian was still quite confused. Even more so now that even his wife was ignored by two people who can literally give their life for her.

    But since the said wife had no reaction to it, he decided not to think about it either. But he still tugged at Raelle''s sleeve and questioned, "What are they doing?"

    All he could see was that Hyson and Grandfather Xiang had an iPad opened before them and their eyes were glued to the iPad screen. As for what was so damn interesting on it, he couldn''t tell from his position.

    Raelle closed the magazine that she had picked up and looked at Shui Xian, "Those two are watching ASMR videos." Shui Xian raised his brows at her and she went on, "Even more precisely, it''d be right to say that they are watching one of miniature cooking ASMR videos."

    "Miniature cooking?" questioned Shui Xian oddly.

    "Don''t ask why they find it so interesting," said Raelle. "I won''t be able to answer that either." She took a pause and added, "But I can tell you that it''s all because of Hyson that Opa is also into this stuff. Hyson had always pulled Opa into doing these things in the name of trying to make Opa stay up to date with the changing times and technology."

    Shui Xian''s brows knitted as he said, "I just realized, Hyson has everyone wrapped around his fingers."

    "You can say it''s his special talent," agreed Raelle.

    Only after the video finished did both Grandfather Xiang and Hyson paid attention to Raelle''s presence.

    "Opa, you should go home for some time. We''ll be here with Hyson," said Raelle.

    Grandfather Xiang hesitated as he looked at Hyson and then at Raelle.

    "Stop pushing yourself," added Raelle, and Grandfather Xiang had to agree with her.

    "Then stay with Yue Fai until Ie back here. You''re not allowed to leave before that," said Grandfather Xiang sternly.

    "I won''t," answered Raelle, reassuring her grandfather.

    After Grandfather Xiang left, Hyson stared at the pair of husband and wife before saying, "So, how are you nning to entertain me today, Ellie?"

    "Do I look like an entertainer?" asked Raelle.

    Hyson shook his head, "Absolutely not."

    "Then why are you expecting that I''ll entertain you?"

    Hyson''s lips curled up slightly as he said knowingly, "You have a surprise for me."

    "And how do you know that?" questioned Raelle.

    "Isn''t it obvious? On normal days, you love to give me gifts with lots of stupid excuses. Today I happen to be sick. There is no way, you don''t have a get-well-soon gift for me."

    Raelle stared at her for a minute before she walked out of the room and came back with a box in her hand covered with a cloth. She extended it towards him saying, "Your get-well-soon gift."

    Hyson chuckled as he took it from her hand. He really had no way to even argue with this girl. Just as he had said, she really had a gift for him. And he was so used to it, that it couldn''t even be considered a surprise now. As he said, Raelle loved giving gifts to others. How could he not get one when he is sick?

    But he was curious to see what she got for him this time around. He lifted the cloth off and his mouth opened wide in surprise. Under the cloth was a metal cage and inside the cage were two little gorgeous fluffy white birds.

    Hyson''s eyes also went round as they sparkled at the sight of those birds. He looked up at Raelle and said, "You! Why are you like this?"

    "I also don''t know about that," answered Raelle in response to his question.

    At this point, even Shui Xian could see what she got for him and he was also certainly surprised by this kind of gift. Not because she gave him birds as a gift but because he could recognize those birds as ''Shima Enaga.'' The species of bird was native to Country J which meant she had gotten it from so far away just for him.

    He also remembered when he first met Hyson for dinner, at that time, Hyson had asked Raelle to join him on a trip to Country J because he wanted to see these cute birds there. But instead of joining him on that trip, she brought the birds to him.

    "Theye in pair?" asked Hyson looking at Raelle.

    She shook her head, "No, I got them in pair. What if a single one got depressed because of loneliness? So the other one is to give itpany."

    Hysonughed at her answer as he continued to look at the birds before him. The all-white fluffy balls looked so adorable to him that he couldn''t take his eyes off them. "They are just as cute as they were in the photos." Then he paused and questioned, "By the way, how did you smuggle them inside the hospital?"

    "What do you mean by smuggling?" retorted Raelle. "I got these in an honest way."

    Hyson sighed out in response to that, "Right. I shouldn''t expect anything hical from you. That''d be asking for too much from you."

    "If you''re gonna continue this criticism, I''m gonna take these back."

    Hyson hurriedly hugged the cage tightly, "Don''t you dare! I haven''t even looked at them enough."

 Chapter 233 - Little To No Effect

    After he got over the cuteness of the fluffy birds, Hyson looked at Raelle and asked, "So, how long can I keep them for?"

    "She gave the birds as a gift. Of course, she won''t take them back," said Shui Xian as he came to stand behind Raelle.

    Hyson gave him a look, "Think again, Xian Ge. My best friend would never gift me a bird to keep as a pet for life. That''s not possible."

    "Why not?" questioned Shui Xian curiously.

    "Because birds are meant to fly in the sky, she''d never want to restrict their movements. She''d never take their freedom from them."

    Shui Xian looked at the side of Raelle''s face who blinked and answered Hyson''s earlier question, "You can keep them for two weeks. After that, they''d be sent back to the ind we brought them from."

    Hyson chuckled, "Got it!" He gave Shui Xian a look that said, ''See? I told you so!'' Then he proceeded to put his finger inside the cage to touch the bird''s head. "Ellie, you really find trouble yourself even when you find everything troublesome."

    "What do you mean?"

    Hyson didn''t even lift his head as he continued to tell her, "I said, let''s go on a trip. We could have easily seen these birds if you had agreed to the trip. But no, you had to do things in a troublesome manner by going as far as bringing these birds to me. Seriously, how is your brain exactly wired?" He shook his head as he went on, "On the Ind apart from Shima-Enaga, there are so many interesting and unique animals that I wanted to see. Are you gonna bring all of them here?"

    "Did you do research?" asked Raelle.

    "Yup!" answered Hyson. "There is Ezo Momonga- the super cute flying squirrel. The Hokkaido Red Squirrel is also unique to that ind. Then there is Ezo Nagi Usagi- the crying rabbit. Also, the red fox is also adorable there."

    "It seems you have gotten quite interested in the Animaltely," remarked Raelle. She really didn''t expect him to have such a thorough understanding of all the species or sub-species avable on that particr ind in Country J.

    "Not really. I just found these animals interesting because they were too cute."

    "No wonder, you spent time researching," said Raelle. After all, how else would Hyson be interested in reading some informational stuff? It had to be because he found something cute and wanted to learn that he found time to do thorough research on the topic.

    And yes, the research was done to convince Raelle to join him on that trip.

    "Maybe I should look for the doctor, it seems your anesthesia still hasn''t worn off and that''s why you''re talking nonsense with me."

    Hyson gave her a cheeky smile, "But I''ve always only talked nonsense with you."

    "Oh, so you do know that you only talk nonsense with me?"

    "I do," answered Hyson as he nodded his head.

    "Then why do you do it?" questioned Raelle.

    "Isn''t it obvious?" retorted Hyson. "It''s because I want to keep reminding you that a sensible person like you ended up befriending a nonsensible one like me. It gives me a feeling of aplishment."

    Shui Xian chuckled at Hyson''s words while Raelle just looked at him with her expressionless face.

    "Now that I''m looking at a bird, I suddenly recall something," added Hyson.

    "Now what?"

    "Do you know which bird has the worst manners?"

    "I refuse to y a part in this joke," was Raelle''s answer.

    Hyson tsked at her, "Aiyah! You''re so not fun." Then he looked at Shui Xian, "Xian Ge, do you know the answer?"

    Shui Xian chose to shake his head, "No, but you must know."

    "Of course, I do," said Hyson proudly. "It''s the mockingbird! HaHaHaHa!"

    Shui Xian didn''t know whether it was a riddle or a joke, and he also didn''t care whether this joke was funny or not since he ended up smiling just because of Hyson''s infectiousughter. The most startling thing he found about Hyson was the fact that he alwaysughed from his heart. Hisughter had always been so loud and bright that it could make anyone want tough along with him.

    Shui Xian had already realized that Hyson wasn''t a funny person. If anything, the things he said when he was under the influence of anesthesia confirmed a lot of things for Shui Xian. But no matter what Hyson''s essence was, one thing was the truth; he had the brightest heart and the most beautifulugh.

    There was a knock at the door and Cloe''s head popped inside as she looked at Raelle, "Chief!"

    Raelle turned her head to look at her, "I didn''t call you to work on Sunday."

    Cloe smiled at her, "I know. It''s just that someone wanted to meet you."

    While Raelle was thinking, Hyson shooed her away, "Just go already. You''re not even gonnaugh with me. And I am not in the mood to see your straight face. Just go away!"

    Raelle didn''t reply to him and neither did she mind his words. She chose to follow Cloe but not before telling Shui Xian, "I''ll be right back."

    Shui Xian nodded his head and watched her leave. Then he pulled a chair to sit beside Hyson and said, "Okay, Xiao Fai. I''ll keep youpany but first of all, tell me how you''re doing?"

    Hyson shrugged his shoulders nonchntly, "I might not be doing well mentally but physically?" He took a dramatic pause to add, "I''m doing even worse."

    "Is it hurting that much?" asked Shui Xian in worry.

    "Oh, it''s not the pain. It''s because I can''t eat my favorite things. My whole system works with food. How am I supposed to be fine mentally or physically when I can''t even eat what I want?"

    "Has anyone ever told you that you''re dramatic?" questioned Shui Xian.

    "I''ve been told," answered Hyson. "But it has little to no effect on me."

    Shui Xian shook his head, "Yeah, I thought so."

 Chapter 234 - Clarity

    "I didn''t think you''re such a foodie though,"mented Shui Xian.

    "I''m not a foodie," argued Hyson. "I am just a huge fan of good food."

    "There is a difference?" questioned Shui Xian.

    "There certainly is," imed Hyson. "Foodie is someone who can eat everything. But I''m quite picky with my food. I don''t particrly enjoy the convenience store snacks. There is also a possibility that I might not like the food from a five-star hotel. Just as I said, I enjoy good food."

    "Define good food now," said Shui Xian.

    Hyson thought about it for a minute before saying, "I got it! You have eaten the food my mum cooked, right?" Shui Xian nodded his head. "That''s counted as good food. In fact, everything Yanyan makes is even better. For some reason, Yanyan is a better cook than my mum but don''t tell my mum. It''s a secret."

    Shui Xian smiled to himself as he said under his breath, "Something tells me it couldn''t possibly be as much of a secret as you think it is." He could hardly believe that with Hyson''s innocent heart, he would have been able to keep this secret. And from the way howst time, Mu Chenyan cooked most of the food, he was even more certain that thosedies knew Hyson loved the food made by Mu Chenyan.

    But he didn''t tell this to Hyson. Instead, he said, "You''re making the wrongparison here. A chef''s food has noparison with the one made by a mother. That''s because the food made by your mother or Yanyan is filled with their love for you. A chef would cook food to make it perfect. A chef''s most important ingredient is professionalism while a mother''s most important ingredient is love."

    Hyson pped his hands, "Xian Ge, you''re quite the wise one." He gave him a thumbs-up, "Certainly the sensible one."

    "So am I a perfect fit for your best friend?" he questioned making Hyson''s brows quirk up in surprise. "I mean, earlier you said that Raelle is the sensible one and now, you''re saying I''m one too. That means I certainly am a perfect match for her, right?"

    Hyson''s lips curled up as he gazed at him, "Xian Ge, are you looking for some kind of reassurance or confirmation?"

    Shui Xian was quiet for a minute before he answered, "Perhaps, both?"

    Hyson''s smiled widened, "It seems you are falling in love with her."

    Shui Xian didn''t bother hiding it as he nodded, "I am. I have even been studying gravitationtely."

    "Huh? Gravitation?" Hyson was dumbfounded.

    "Yeah. I''ve been studying gravitation to learn just how hard I can fall for her."

    Hyson pressed his lips together before he burst outughing loudly and it made Shui Xian smile along with him.

    Hyson gave him two thumbs up, "Xian Ge, that was a good one! That was really a good one!"

    "Well, it made youugh so I think it was worth it," said Shui Xian.

    After Hyson quietened up, he continued to stare at Shui Xian for a long time in silence before he asked, "Xian Ge, did I say something unnecessary yesterday under the influence of anesthesia?"

    "Unnecessary?" repeated Shui Xian and pretended to think about it. "Nope. Nothing was unnecessary."

    Hyson looked at him suspiciously, "I don''t think that''s right though. There is no way I didn''t say anything I wasn''t supposed to say. I know myself very well."

    "Although you said a lot, however, just as I said there wasn''t unnecessary." He chuckled softly and added, "In fact, you even sang a song for your best friend. In a cutesy voice."

    Hyson buried his face in his hands. "And she didn''t p me for that?"

    "She is your best friend, why would she p you?"

    Hyson sighed out, "You know nothing, Xian Ge." He took a deep breath and asked further, "What else did I do?"

    "You called her Hell''s darling Belle Elle and something along this line."

    "Oh, that''s fine then," said Hyson easing up.

    "You also asked her about family," told Shui Xian and Hyson visibly stiffened up when he heard that.

    "What?" he questioned. "Family?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "Yes, family. It seems you saw a family next door and that''s why..."

    "Don''t continue down that line," interrupted Hyson. "I got the picture. I got it quite well." He looked towards the ceiling, "Somethings are better left unsaid but I usually realize that after saying it all."

    "I don''t see it as a problem though. Yes, your words can hurt the other person just as much as your best friend''s words do. But at the end of the day, you both always say things that matter. Even if it''s a little painful, some things are supposed to be out in the open." Shui Xian patted his hand saying, "It''s a good thing you let it all out. I don''t think my wife mind anything you said. Only because you were just speaking your heart out."

    "I believe you''re quite curious about our families," said Hyson knowingly.

    "I actually am." Shui Xian didn''t even try to hide his curiosity. He didn''t need to do so. He was just as much curious about Hyson''s family as he was curious about Raelle''s.

    "You want to know the story behind our parents?" It sounded more like a statement than a question and the way Hyson looked at Shui Xian was making it all the more certain that he knew what Shui Xian was curious to know.

    "Are you gonna tell me?" asked Shui Xian.

    "It isn''t very interesting though. Melo-dramatic, perhaps? But interesting? I don''t think so," were Hyson''s words. "In fact, even Ellie doesn''t find it interesting. ording to her, our broken families can''t define what we are. Whatever mess our parents had has nothing to do with us."

    Shui Xian''s eyes narrowed as he said, "I actually find you both admirable. You both know clearly what you want in life and what you don''t want in life. It took me way too long to find such rity in my life."

    "What rity did you finally find, Xian Ge?" questioned Hyson.

    "I want to spend my life with Raelle," answered Shui Xian. "That''s the rity of my present and that''s the future I aspire to see."

 Chapter 235 - Eating Humans

    "I didn''t call you out today," said Raelle to Cloe as she followed her towards the waiting room.

    "I came on my own," replied Cloe. "Just wanted to check up on Hyson." After a moment, she asked, "Won''t you ask who is here to see you?"

    "I think I already know," was Raelle''s answer.

    Cloe gave her a nod and opened the door for her saying, "Then enjoy your talk. Let me know if you need anything."

    Raelle entered the room and said, "It really is you."

    The person inside the room who had his back towards her stood up and turned his head to look at her. "President Raelle, it''s been a long time."

    "Just sit down, Soren."

    As Raelle also came to sit opposite him, his brows quirked up, "You don''t look surprised to see me here."

    "Well, perhaps I was expecting you to show up," replied Raelle with a shrug.

    Soren smiled at her answer and nodded his head, "I should have known that."

    "You''re here for your sister?"

    Soren''s smile widened, "And you know that as well. Why am I not even surprised by that?" He took a brief pause before adding, "Anyway, since you already know why I''m here, I won''t waste your time either. I know Sora messed up this time. And I''m extremely sorry for that." Before Raelle could say anything, he went on, "Don''t assume I''m here to plead for her sake. I just wanted to personally apologize to you because of the blunder she caused and whatever your family member had to go through because of it."

    Raelle''s eyes were concentrated on his expression all this time and only after he stopped did she opened her mouth to say, "You didn''t have toe here personally though. Your sister has nothing to do with this."

    "Of course, she does," replied Soren. "She was the one who chose to bring our maternal cousin, Xu Hua to the set with her. If it wasn''t because of that, nothing would have happened."

    "Rx, Soren. Hyson doesn''t want to get Sora involved." Soren was a little surprised when he heard that. "ording to him, Sora was the one person who treated him nicely and she had been nothing but kind to him. He has quite a good impression of your sister and we aren''t ungrateful either. Since she treated him in a good way, I won''t hold her ountable for Hyson''s injury."

    When she put it like that Soren was finally able to understand her point of view. He had met Raelle when he first joined the business eight years ago and at that time, she had repeatedly made him eat losses. He would never forget how calctive she had been. If you messed around with her, she''d make you pay. But if you had treated her kindly, she''d never return it with ungratefulness.

    "But I won''t say the same for your maternal family," she added. "Miss Xu Hua''s family will have to pay for it."

    Soren waved his hand as he leaned backnguidly, "I don''t care what you do with them."

    "Your sister might not agree with your standpoint though," reminded Raelle.

    "It doesn''t matter. Sora had always been a little too nice to people and that''s why everyone is able to make use of her. The reason why I allowed her to be an author was that I knew she''d be eaten alive in the corporate world with her nature. It was better for her to work from home. It''s her kindness that she forgot what our maternal family did to us and fell for their coaxing. But since they had tried to make use of my sister, they should learn the consequences as well."

    "So when the Xu Family business goes under, don''te running to me."

    Soren agreed without any hesitation, "I would never do so." He looked straight at her and went on, "I''ll stay out of whatever you do as long as it doesn''t involve my sister." He took a pause and asked, "By the way, how is that boy from your family? Is his injury serious?"

    "He had surgery yesterday and today he is doing well," answered Raelle patiently.

    "Did you know Sora is my sister?"

    "Only after Cloe gave me her details on Friday. Before that, I wasn''t aware of it."

    "I also didn''t know Hyson is a part of your family. And even if I did, I don''t think it''d have been of any help since I never interfered in Sora''s work. I only found out that Sora ended up offending you when I was informed that Cloe stopped the shooting."

    "Is that why you ran back to the country so soon?" asked Raelle.

    "Yeah," Soren rubbed the nape of his neck. "I was scared you might eat my sister alive."

    "Sorry to disappoint you but I don''t like eating humans."

    Soren chuckled at her response, "I heard you joined the Shires Business Association. If I knew you''d be attending, I''d havee even sooner." He looked at her strangely as he added, "Besides, I heard quite a lot about the meeting from those who attended it. Especially about President Raelle and Master Xian." Leaning over he asked, "Is he really courting you?"

    "He is," answered Raelle.

    Soren looked shocked to hear this confirmation, "That stiff face still has a romantic bone? I thought all he knew was how to emit coldness. He has the ability to freeze people, how is he nning on melting your heart?"

    "You seem quite concerned about our affair," said Raelle.

    Soren sighed inwardly, "That''s because I''ve always been curious about the kind of person who would be able to stay by your side. I find it quite surprising that the one trying to stick to you is actually Master Xian himself."

    Raelle stood up and said, "Continue talking like that about my husband and I might add you to my target list."

    Soren''s eyes went round as he stared at her, "What did you just say? Husband? Who?"

    "Shui Xian is my husband," she told him fixing her shirt. "Considering how we''ve been acquainted for so long, I think you should know this." Without waiting for him to say anything, she continued, "I won''t be seeing you out. Let''s meet again to chit-chat. Hospital isn''t a good ce for that."

    Soren was still in a daze as he waved her goodbye. His mind was still reeling from how she was married and that too with Master Xian. Which world had been living in?

 Chapter 236 - Poetic

    Seeing how Raelle was already leaving, Cloe stepped over.

    "Take him out for coffee or something," said Raelle before leaving.

    Cloe could only shake her head at her boss. Since Raelle wanted to get back to Hyson, she left early but she didn''t forget that it was bad manners to make Soren leave just like that.

    When Cloe entered the waiting room, she could see the dumbfounded look on Soren''s face. Soren was a tall man. He had his hairbed to the back of his head. A pair of gold-rimmed sses shielded his deep eyes. In a neat and tidy suit, he gave off of a hard to approach feeling to others. He usually gave off a feeling of indifference and self-control of a high-ranking elite.

    But currently, his expressions really didn''t go well with his usual demeanor. He didn''t look as hard to approach.

    Cloe chuckled and nudged him yfully, "I guess she told you, didn''t she?"

    Soren turned his eyes towards her, "Is she really married?"

    "Yup!"

    "To Shui Xian? As in Master Xian of the Shui Conglomerate?"

    "That''s the one!" replied Cloe.

    "Damn!" Soren didn''t know what else to say right now. It wasn''t just surprising, it was shocking to him.

    Cloe actually sympathized with him right now. How could she not? She had a simr reaction when she first learned about it. So, she could understand Soren''s feelings. She patted his shoulder, "Let''s go. I''ll take you out for coffee."

    "I came here right afternding, do you really think I''m in the mood for coffee?"

    "Aren''t you a coffee lover? I remember in college, you could drink coffee all day."

    Soren raised his brow at her, "Your memory is too good, eh?"

    "And since my memory is so good, it came out as a surprise to me that Sora is your sister."

    "Knowing that you still threatened her."

    Cloe gave him a smug look, "It couldn''t be considered a threat though. I just gave her a gentle reminder that even her brother can''t possibly help her. Now, as her dear brother, tell me, can you really help her?"

    "I don''t wanna go against Raelle," answered Soren.

    "See!" Cloeughed at him. "I was absolutely right."

    "I''m going to leave now. Let''s meet up again. I''ll invite you to dinner. Don''t forget to bring her with you."

    "Free meals are always weed," said Cloe.

    ....

    Meanwhile, Hyson was still chattering with Shui Xian without any hint of tiredness at all. One could hardly tell that he just had surgery yesterday.

    "Xian Ge, I have a question for you."

    "What is it?" Shui Xian''s brows quirked up seeing his cautious look. It was surprising for him to see Hyson being cautious about something. Didn''t he usually just said whatever came to his mind? Why was he hesitating so much today?

    "That... Director Jade is really your sister?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "She is."

    "Are you sure?" asked Hyson once again but this stressing on his words.

    "Why? You have doubts?"

    "I do," answered Hyson straightforwardly. "She neither looks like you nor is her personality like you. When Cloe first told me that she is your sister, I actually nked out for a while because my brain couldn''t actually make a connection between her and you."

    "Siblings always have contradicting personalities," stated Shui Xian.

    "Do they?" Hyson was uncertain. "I just met Ellie''s brother and even though they never even met each other, I can tell you I could see a hint of Ellie in her brother. But didn''t you and your sister grew up together? Then why such a huge difference?"

    Shui Xian caught on to the key point, "Raelle''s elder brother is like her?"

    Hyson paused a bit but soon nodded his head, "Actually, there are differences but once someone says they are siblings you can easily believe it. He isn''t a talkative person like her. He doesn''t show his weakness to others like her. Even though he was bleeding, not once heined about it. And even though he didn''t like talking, he still listened to me attentively."

    "It seems he left quite an impression on you," said Shui Xian.

    "Lieutenant Colonel Xiang Weimin," began Hyson. "Indeed, he left quite an impression."

    Shui Xian fell into deep thought when he heard Hyson talking like this. He could tell that it wasn''t easy to impress a person like Hyson whose heart was too simple. Or perhaps, his heart was too deep andplicated to understand. Whichever one it was, one thing was certain, he usually wouldn''t get impressed by people easily.

    He wanted to say something but he could tell Hyson would divulge further into this topic so he decided to change the topic.

    "You know," began Shui Xian. "I think you''re the ''Bug'' in my wife''s life."

    Hysonughed at that, "Why? Because I am always bugging her?"

    Shui Xian smiled at him and shook his head, "Not really. It''s because usually her life is organized but whenever you get involved, things take a different turn."

    Hysonughed even harder, "You can call me the wind in her still life. It''s a talent to bring chaos into her life. Not just anyone is capable of doing that."

    "Oh, if you''re the wind, what am I?" asked Shui Xian.

    "You''re the rain," replied Hyson matter-of-factly. "You''re supposed to make her flourish and bloom with your touch."

    "Bloody hell! You''re poetic!" said Shui Xian.

    Hyson smiled at him, "I''m a singer. Although I have no interest in songwriting, I often spend time with Zhen Ge. He is an awesome songwriter. And he is an even better poet."

    By the time Raelle came back, Hyson had already told everything about his band members to Shui Xian. Obviously, he wasn''t the gossipy type to share the unnecessary stuff. But Hyson was the kind of a person who would sincerely praise the people he liked and that''s why he didn''t hold back while talking about his members. Even Shui Xian was surprised to find out that Hyson''s observation skills were no worse than his wife.

 Chapter 237 - Love Is Tiring

    "Xian Ge, can I ask you a very personal question?"

    "Why are hesitating today?" questioned Shui Xian.

    "This question might not sound pleasant though," added Hyson when he saw the door of the room pulled open.

    Since Shui Xian''s back was towards the door, he couldn''t see that someone was standing at the door right now.

    "Just ask away," he agreed to answer anything.

    Hyson''s eyes lifted up but didn''t settle on Shui Xian, instead, he looked at the person standing at? the door as he asked, "Why did you get a divorce?" Shui Xian paused and Raelle didn''t take another step inside because of the way Hyson looked at her. She didn''t have a habit of eavesdropping but currently, that was exactly Hyson''s idea. "Don''t get me wrong. I''m not really curious about the failure of your first marriage. But I also know that my best friend won''t ask you this question either. Since she won''t, someone has to."

    Shui Xian fell into contemtion for a while before he said, "To be very honest with you, I also don''t know why my marriage failed. I spent years trying to figure it out but I just couldn''t do so. Exactly when or how things started going wrong, even I couldn''t figure it out."

    Hyson pursed his lips, "People often get a divorce when one of the partners falls out of love. I''ve heard about it, just like people fall in love, exactly like that people fall out of love as well. And there is nothing wrong with that either. As people say they have the freedom to fall in love, exactly like that people should have the freedom to fall out of love as well."

    Shui Xian was impressed to hear that from someone like Hyson. "I agree with you. But what if I tell you that none of us fell out of love when we filed for divorce?"

    Hyson''s eyes widened in surprise, "If both people are in love why would they get a divorce?"

    Shui Xian shrugged his shoulders trying to feign nonchnce as he told him, "Who knows? Perhaps, the intensity of love became too much for them to bear, it became suffocating, and eventually, they had to take a step back to breathe again."

    "That just went over my head," said Hyson in all honesty.

    Shui Xian chuckled softly at him saying, "That''s because you have never been in love before." He took a deep breath and added, "Yue Fai, just remember that sometimes the one who promised to stay and the one who stayed behind are two different people. The ones who promised lit up a kindle of hope but the one who kept that kindle of hope alive is apletely unexpected person."

    "Xian Ge, you''re a really deep person," although he was speaking to Shui Xian, his eyes were still on Raelle who also heard everything. But one couldn''t possibly find a change on her face of any kind whatsoever.

    "I''m not trying to be profound here," stated Shui Xian. "In fact, justst year if someone had told me I''d be married to Raelle Xiang, I might haveughed at that person. But today, I am married to her. Life is just that unexpected and the people we meet in our life are even more unexpected. Not only that, if on the day I first met Raelle, someone had told me that I''d fall in love with her so soon, I''d have diedughing at that person."

    "Why?" asked Hyson. "Is it that difficult to love my best friend?"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "No. In fact, it''s too easy to fall in love with her. But I didn''t know that when I first met her. I have never believed in love at first sight. I always believed that falling in love is a long process. It takes time to learn about the other person and slowly you start developing feelings. However, my wife proved me wrong. She made me realize love is just as unexpected as life and people are. It only takes a moment for someone to ensnare you in their love. Some people just know the shortcut your heart."

    Just thinking about Raelle, a small smile tugged at his lips and he looked down.

    Since Shui Xian''s eyes were lowered, Hyson raised his hands and hand signed to Raelle, ''He is in love with you.''

    Raelle looked away for a moment before replying in the same way, ''I can see that.''

    Instead of entering, Raelle walked out and closed the door. She didn''t leave, she just stood there for a while in silence.

    Hyson shook his head before saying, "People in love expect their partner to love them equally. Do you also want Ellie to love you like you havee to love her?"

    Shui Xian looked up with knitted brows, "Your point is?"

    "She might never fall in love with you. Or should I say, she might never understand this love?"

    "I know," answered Shui Xian. "But it''s okay."

    "Is it?" asked Hyson in surprise. "Won''t you get tired of loving her all on your own?"

    "Love isn''t tiring, Yue Fai," said Shui Xian. "I know my ideas don''t match with my wife''s. But that doesn''t matter really."

    "She is stubborn when ites to her principles."

    "And I''m stubborn when ites to my feelings." He took a pause and added, "Besides, I fell in love with her, it''s my business. My love for her wasn''t based on the pretext of her love for me. I love her because I couldn''t stop myself."

    A silence fell into the room after he spoke. And when the silence prolonged, Shui Xian inquired, "What''s wrong? What are you thinking now?"

    Hyson looked at her intensely as he answered, "I''m just confused."

    "Confused? About what?"

    Hyson opened his mouth to say, ''I''m confused about why would a person like you were left behind.'' But in the end, he swallowed those words and just shook his head at Shui Xian. He didn''t want to poke at the same sore spot twice.

 Chapter 238 - Grew Apart?

    Holding a cup of bubble tea in her hand, Raelle finally came back to the room.

    "How much brain did he eat of yours?"

    Hyson gave her a look, "Do I look like a zombie? Why would I eat anyone''s brain?" He took a pause and added, "No matter how hungry I am, I still won''t eat brains."

    Raelle came to stand behind Shui Xian''s chair. She ced her forearms on each shoulder of Shui Xian from behind and waved the cup of bubble tea before his eyes, "It''s for you."

    Shui Xian took it from her and let her be. Raelle continued to stay like that. She hadn''t ced any weight on him. But her arms were still dangling from his shoulders. It almost felt like she was hugging his neck from behind.

    "You could have gotten one for me as well," said Hyson in displeasure.

    "You''re not allowed to drink it for now," answered Raelle.

    "Wow, you have really climbed the wall, eh!"

    "Climbed the wall? When did I do that?"

    Shui Xian took a sip of the bubble tea before replying, "He means, you''re cheating on him."

    "But he said something about climbing walls."

    Shui Xian patiently exined it to her, "That''s an idiom that means cheating in a rtionship. In ancient times, women used to stay at home. So, if they wanted to cheat on their partner they would have to climb over the wall to do that."

    "That''s quite a fancy way to describe cheating," remarked Raelle.

    Shui Xian ced the cup of bubble tea aside and yed with Raelle''s fingers that were right before his face. He couldn''t help doing so.

    And looking at them like this, Hyson could only smile contently. In fact, he looked like a proud peacock right now.

    "Oi!" called out Hyson to get her attention. "You got him bubble tea, why don''t you buy something for me as well?"

    Raelle took out a credit card from her pocket and said, "Tell me what you want, I''ll buy it for you."

    Hyson tsked at her, "That is the card Xian Ge gave you. Are you gonna use his money to buy something for your best friend? How rude!"

    Shui Xian didn''t let Raelle answer as he said, "You just tell her what you want. I''ll be really d if she really used this card. People love shopping but my wife has only used this card once and that was also when I was with her."

    "But I really had nothing I wanted to buy," told Raelle honestly. "Really!"

    "Hey! I don''t want you to buy me anything. Just get my cotton candy back."

    "Cotton candy?" questioned Raelle looking at Hyson.

    "My birds!" answered Hyson with an exaggerated tone. "One of your people took my cotton and candy from me."

    "Because it''s a hospital," said Raelle. "You are not allowed to keep pets here. So, every day, only for two hours you''ll get to meet the birds." Hyson''s face fell while Raelle added, "By the way, you named the birds?"

    "I did," replied Hyson.

    "And you gave them names like cotton and candy?"

    Hyson nodded his head, "Don''t they look like cotton and candy? Why can''t I name them like that?"

    "There is something wrong here," stated Raelle.

    "I don''t think so," answered Hyson in a singsong voice.

    *Knock*

    After a couple of knocks, the door was opened and a heat-insted food box was brought inside. One by one the dishes were served on the table before the delivery person left.

    Raelle patted her husband''s shoulder, "Let''s have lunch. Wash up your hands."

    Shui Xian listened to her and went to wash his hands. Right after that, Raelle also washed her hands and sat down to eat with Shui Xian. Slowly when the aroma of delicious food spread in the ward, Hyson''s lips twitched as he looked at Raelle, "You''re doing it on purpose, aren''t you?"

    Raelle didn''t deny his ims. She even looked at him and said, "Who asked you to talk nonsense?"

    Hyson could only snort at her reaction. He knew she was doing this because he asked that question from Shui Xian. It wasn''t his ce, he knew that as well. But he couldn''t hold back his curiosity as well.

    And now that he couldn''t eat all of that, she actually asked her chef to cook a feast of things he loved to eat. Oh, what a good friend he had!

    She really made him want to beat her up!

    "Xian Ge, you said she is easy to love," began Hyson. "Are you sure about that? What''s so easy?"

    Shui Xian smiled at him and felt a little sympathy for him as well as he told him, "Can''t you tell? Just seeing you salivating over this meal is enough to make her feel good. How is she difficult?"

    "I think something is wrong with your eyes," stated Hyson firmly.

    "If something is wrong with my eyes, then something is definitely wrong with yours as well. After all, you''re the one keeping one best friend for life. I''ve long drifted apart from people I called friends."

    Hyson looked at the drip that was attached to his hand and said, "The concept of having one best friend for life is unreal, Xian Ge. You can''t be friends with the same person for life."

    Shui Xian frowned at him, "Aren''t you friends with my wife for decades?"

    "And how can you say she is the same person I first met?" Shui Xian was stunned by his question. "People grow up, Xian Ge. You said people change, that''s true. And that is why keeping the same person as your best friend for life is unrealistic. Because two people can''t always walk on the same path. That''s why everyone has different best friends at different phases of their lives." He looked at Raelle and added, "She and I also grew up. We just didn''t grow apart because, at every changing phase, we learned to ept each other. But that doesn''t mean we are the same people we once were."

 Chapter 239 - Dream On!

    Since Raelle not only made him see his favorite food but she only made him smell it. This kind of torture and Hyson would easily let it go? Dream on!

    And even that was not enough. For the rest of the time, he had to see this husband and wife being cozy with each other. Not like it mattered to him but he was still gonna get back at her for that food incident!

    "Opa! She bullied me!" was the first thing Grandfather Xiang heard when he came back in the evening. Looking at Hyson''s eyes oozing with the grievance, Grandfather Xiang turned his head to look at his granddaughter who seemed unperturbed by these allegations.

    Grandfather Xiang maneuvered his wheelchair and came beside Hyson''s bed before he red at his granddaughter, "XIANG YENAY!"

    Raelle spread her palms out and acted nonchntly about both either it was Hyson''s allegations or her grandfather calling him ''Yenay!''

    From her reaction, it was certain that she wasn''t even denying anything.

    "I left you here to take care of our little prince. How can you bully him?"

    "Like I always do," she replied matter-of-factly.

    "Yenay!"

    "Opa, even if you call me by that name a hundred times, I still won''t care."

    Even Hyson''s brows quirked up in surprise. Who didn''t know that usually whenever she heard that name it did something to her. For some reason, she just didn''t like being called, ''Yenay!'' But today, she wasn''t reacting. Oh, thisck of reaction was truly surprising to him and Grandfather Xiang as well.

    "While she was bullying our family''s little prince, what were you doing, A-Xian[1]?"

    Shui Xian opened his mouth to answer when Raelle held his hand and pulled him behind herself. "Talk to me," she said to Grandfather Xiang. "Why are you dragging my husband?"

    *p! p!*

    Grandfather Xiang looked at Hyson who was apuding like a seal who was enjoying the show. Seeing Grandfather Xiang looking at him, Hyson replied, "Opa, you should also p right now. Today, our Ellie is being protective."

    "She is quite protective of you as well," said Grandfather Xiang making Hyson grin at him sheepishly. Then he turned back to Raelle, "I won''t eat your husband."

    "What if you scared him?" retorted Raelle.

    Grandfather Xiang red at her, "I found him for you. Why would I scare him away? If he is not even scared of you, then he can''t be scared of me."

    "What''s theparison between you and me?"

    Hyson took this moment to interject, "There is noparison, indeed. After all, you''re scarier." Raelle gave Hyson a nk look and he went on, "See! That social smile of yours along with those nk eyes of yours is a deadlybination. And not in a good way." He smiled at Grandfather Xiang as he added, "Tianyu has such a gentle face but you''re theplete opposite. As I said, noparison there."

    "Hey, my wife is not scary," Shui Xian poked his head from behind Raelle as he said to Hyson.

    "Love is blind," stated Hyson. "And since love is blind, I''m gonna pretend like I''m deaf."

    "Your best friend really knows how to get on someone''s nerves," whispered Shui Xian to Raelle.

    "This is why you''re not supposed to pay attention to him," Raelle replied to him.

    "It''s rude to whisper like that," said Hyson. "Opa, did you see? These two had been doing this to me all day."

    "Liar!"

    Hyson almost rolled his eyes at Raelle, "Okay, I''m exaggerating a little here. But that doesn''t mean you both didn''t try to turn me blind today with excessive disy of affection."

    "What disy of affection?" questioned Raelle.

    "What you have been doing all this time!"

    "So, what we have been doing is called the disy of affection?"

    "Argh!" Hyson gnashed his teeth. "Just go back already!"

    "Okay," said Raelle as she pulled Shui Xian along and left without looking back.

    "You''re really going?"

    "You told me to," said Raelle as she stepped out the door.

    "She really listens well," remarked Hyson.

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head at him, "Little prince, did she bother you a lot?"

    "How is that possible?" retorted Hyson. "You should be asking whether I bothered her enough or not. Hehehe."

    "You really know how to annoy her," said Grandfather Xiang.

    "Her life would be too in if I don''t do it," answered Hyson.

    Suddenly thinking of something, Grandfather Xiang asked, "Do they look good together?"

    "As if you can''t see that," said Hyson. "As you said, you chose Xian Ge for Ellie. Of course, your choices can''t be wrong. And anyone with eyes can see that they look good together. In fact, they look picture perfect together."

    "I feel like something changed in their rtionship," stated Grandfather Xiang.

    "Your eyes are sharp as always," responded Hyson. "Indeed, something changed. Xian Ge is in love with our Ellie." Grandfather Xiang looked up at him in surprise. "Just be patient, Opa. There are a lot more changes toe yet."

    "I hope you''re right," Grandfather Xiang''s voice was soft, almost like a whisper. He shook out these thoughts from his head and asked, "Forget about them and tell me how you''re doing?"

    "I''m peachy!"

    "Really?"

    "Really!"

    "That''s good," smiled Grandfather Xiang. He touched Hyson''s head and Hyson leaned into his hand. "Just get well soon. Then I''ll ask Mu Chenyan to make all the things you love to eat. In fact, if our little prince wants, even I will personally cook for you."

    "How did you know it was about food?"

    "There is no other way possible for Raelle to bully you."

    Hyson chuckled when he heard that. Indeed, he''d neverin unless it''s about food. Otherwise, bullying had been verymon between him and Raelle. They both loved to take a jab at the other at every possible chance.

    [1] If anyone doesn''t know, ''A'' or ''Ah'' is used as a prefix in Mandarin as a form of endearment.

 Chapter 240 - No Definite Answer

    On their way back, Shui Xian was driving the car himself. Raelle didn''t know when he had set the driver back but now they were on their own. Just the two of them.

    Surprisingly, both of them were quiet. Both had something on their minds. For instance, Raelle couldn''t stop thinking about what she heard during the day. And Shui Xian happened to be thinking about the same discussion that he had with Hyson but both of them had their own purposes.

    Shui Xian had figured out a lot about his own feelings while talking to Hyson while Raelle was left mulling over the feelings he had for her. So in their own ways, both of them were really stuck in the same moment.

    Since Raelle''s mind was elsewhere, it took her a while to realize that they were on a different route. She obviously remembered they were gonna stay at the apartment near the hospital today but right now, the car was moving away from the bustling city.

    Before she could ask him where they were going, the car stopped at the side of the road. Shui Xian alighted down from the car and came over to her side. He opened the door for her gracefully and even offered his hand to her in a gentlemanly manner.

    Raelle''s hand slid into his as she alighted and walked with him. While walking with him, she looked around. They were at the Ahnzi River Park. What an unexpected ce!

    There wasn''t anything dazzling about this ce either. At most, you could get a pretty good view of the river. However, surprisingly, there were a lot of people here. Or it''d be better to say that there were a lot of couples here at this time.

    Shui Xian spread a pic nket on the grass and gestured her to sit down. Raelle sat down with her eyes looking ahead. Soon, she felt his presence behind her. Shui Xian had sat behind her with her back pressed against his chest while his legs were almost caging her body from both sides along with his arms that came to rest around her waist.

    Raelle didn''t resist, she leaned back her head on his shoulder as she asked, "Now, that we have settled. May I ask what we are doing here?"

    "We are cuddling," replied Shui Xian matter-of-factly. "Can''t you tell already?"

    Raelle paused for a second before she inquired, "So, you''re telling me, we came all the way here just to cuddle? Don''t you think we could have done that at home?"

    Shui Xian chuckled at her as his nose rubbed against the side of her head, "I just didn''t feel like going home yet. And I find hospitals to be stifling. That''s why I decided to bring you here to get some fresh air."

    "You don''t like hospitals?"

    "Does anyone like hospitals?" he questioned her instead of answering her question.

    Raelle thought of something before saying, "I''m sorry."

    "Huh?" Shui Xian was dumbfounded by that sudden apology. "Where did thate from?"

    "I shouldn''t have made you stay with me at the hospital," she said.

    He shook his head at her and bit the tip of her ear, "I spent my day with my wife and I think it was worthwhile. It didn''t even cross my mind that I was at the hospital." He took a brief pause before adding, "In fact, I really brought you here to watch stars."

    "Stars? Which one? The ones that shine in the sky or the ones who shine on big screens?"

    Shui Xian smiled as he answered, "The ones that shine in the sky. So, we are here for stargazing."

    "Stargazing?" she repeated.

    "Yup!" he answered. "When I was young, my mom used to take me camping just because she wanted to see the starden sky in the surrounding nature. Maybe it''s because of her that I have always liked stars."

    It wasn''t every day that Shui Xian would take the initiative to talk about his mother. But today he had brought up the topic on his own. And since it was something rted to him, Raelle listened attentively.

    "Did she like astronomy?"

    "Nope," answered Shui Xian. "I can tell you all about the constetions or the names of the stars. But for my mom, those were just stars. Shining brightly in the sky like jewels." He chuckled as he told her, "Actually, it should be better to say that she treated stars like little diamonds. She was a jewelry enthusiast. Gems had been her best friends."

    "No wonder she created the jewelry brand, Moonlight," said Raelle.

    "If only," scoffed Shui Xian. "The only reason ''Moonlight'' exists is the fact that when she went out to pick her wedding ring, she couldn''t find the perfect ring. In her words, ''No ring resonated with me.'' And in the end, she decided to design her own wedding jewelry. That''s how B¨¤ learned that she had quite some talent and convinced her to make that talent her passion."

    "So in a way, B¨¤ is the one behind your mom''s sess."

    "That''s true," agreed Shui Xian. "My mom was a typical socialite. She never took working seriously. Sometimes, I really wonder how a workaholic my father fell in love with a socialite like her whose only job was to attend parties."

    "But aren''t you the one who said that how one falls in love has no definite answer?"

    Shui Xian fell quiet when he heard that. Indeed, he had told her that before. And hepletely agreed with those words as well. How or when one love bes a part of our life is hard to answer. Even for someone like Shui Xian who had fallen in love twice in his life.

    And if someone asked him about the experience, he might not be able to answer it at all. There was just no right way to answer.

    His lips pressed against the side of her neck as he said, "There really is no answer."

 Chapter 241 - Old?

    In the park, several couples could be seen riding bicycles along the riverside. Some were just walking hand-in-hand enjoying a simple walk. Although there were plenty of couples here, this ce seemed quiet.

    "You don''t talk about your mother," said Raelle.

    "It''s not like I don''t want to talk about her," answered Shui Xian. "It''s just that I already miss her a lot. Talking about her makes me miss her even more. So, I usually avoid talking about her."

    "Then why are you talking about her today?"

    "Because you are my wife, honey. I feel like you should know about your mother-inw. She was an interesting woman."

    "She gave birth to my hubby, she has to be an amazing woman," retorted Raelle.

    Shui Xian pretended to get shot straight on his heart as he said, "Darling, you''re really something when ites to flirting." He hugged her tightly as he added, "I wish you could meet her once."

    "I have met her," answered Raelle.

    "You have?"

    Raelle turned her back to look at him as she told him, "I did. Not just once but a couple of times."

    At first, Shui Xian was a little surprised to hear that. Butter, as if recalling something, everything made sense to him.

    "Did she tell you about me?" asked Shui Xian curiously.

    "Why do you assume that she talked about you with me?"

    "She was a typical mother. She loved to brag about her kids. Especially, me. She only took me with her to parties to show off to her friends how well-behaved her son was."

    "She only told me one thing about her son," answered Raelle honestly.

    "What did she say?" Shui Xian''s curiosity was at its peak now. He wanted to know what his mother said about him to his wife.

    "She said, ''My son has the most beautiful smile. One that came warm anyone''s heart.''"

    Shui Xian stiffened when he heard that. He wasn''t surprised actually. His mother had said the exact same words to him on more than one asion and he alwaysughed it off.

    Raelle nted a kiss on his chin as she added, "When you first time smiled before me, her words echoed in my head. She wasn''t lying. Your smile really is the most beautiful one."

    "Prettydy, why are you turning into a sweet mouth? That is so not like you."

    "I''m just telling you the truth."

    Shui Xian kissed her ear and looked towards the sky with a huge grin on his face. The sky was clear and the stars looked exceptionally beautiful tonight. Or maybe it was because he liked thepany of the one in his arms that everything seemed beautiful tonight.

    "Don''t you think stars are really beautiful?" he suddenly asked.

    Raelle looked at the stars before saying, "Stars are celestial bodies made up of hydrogen and helium. Because of the churning nuclear forging inside their core, they produce light and heat. What exactly is beautiful about them? You can''t even reach them, since they are light years away from us. Not only that, even if you can touch them, they will burn you."

    When Shui Xian didn''t even try to stop her lecture, she leaned her head backward. From her position, she could only see his chin but when he leaned his head, she could see his face upside down. Seeing the nk look in her eyes, he smiled and kissed her lips, "Babes, you can continue. If I had a gorgeous teacher like yours, I''d have never missed a science ss in my life."

    "So, you aren''t gonna tell me that the beauty of stars can''t be exined with science?" Raelle retorted ignoring another pet name he used to call her.

    "I can definitely tell you that," answered Shui Xian. He ced his hands against her cheeks and touched the tip of her nose with his own. "I told you before, not everything can be exined with science. Some things hold special meaning to everyone. Stars are just like that. Everyone holds different meanings to them. Some people even wish upon a shooting star when science tells us that it''s just done because of some kind of cosmic explosion. However, that can''t dampen the belief of a believer."

    His words reminded Raelle of what Mu Chenyan had told her before. A belief could do wonders in one''s life. Perhaps, she needed to start believing as well.

    "I know your only belief is in facts and calcted data but it''s alright to believe in unbelievable."

    "Why?" she questioned.

    "No reason," he answered inly. "There is a possibility that you might not gain anything from that belief but so what? If nothing else, one belief can bring new hope in your life. Not only that, it might make life lessplicated."

    "You''re talking like a sage," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian chuckled, "Am I?" Suddenly, his face stiffened, "Hey! Wifey, you''re calling me old?"

    "When did I?"

    "Sages are old," argued Shui Xian.

    "And who made that rule?" She took a pause and added, "Besides, what if I did call you old? Aren''t you old?"

    Shui Xian gaped at her, "What? So, now I''m the old one?"

    "Hubby, you''re older than me. Isn''t that a fact?"

    "Oh, thanks for the reminder," retorted Shui Xian sulkily.

    For some reason, he looked quite adorable acting like this. Raelle didn''t even realize that her eyes had softened up seeing him like this. Maybe that''s why she yed along with him.

    "I have something to tell you," she began in a soft voice. "I eavesdropped on you and Hyson."

    "What?" Shui Xian was taken aback by how honestly she decided toe clean before him.

    "I wasn''t nning on doing it though," she told him. "It just happened and I couldn''t lie to you either so I chose toe clean."

    Shui Xian found her too cute every time she couldn''t lie to him or to anyone. It really challenged her principles and she couldn''t let anything go against her own principles.

 Chapter 242 - Schemer

    "So, what did you hear?" he inquired.

    "When Hyson asked about your divorce, I was there," she answered honestly. It''s not like she wanted to act like a thief back then. It was all because of Hyson for asking that question at the very moment, she got there.

    "No wonder, Yue Fai asked me that question out of nowhere," said Shui Xian in understanding. He was finally able to understand why Hyson asked that question. "Your best friend is really cunning."

    "He always had been," replied Raelle.

    "It doesn''t matter whether you heard that or not," he told that to her. "It wasn''t like it was a secret. And even if it was some kind of a secret, you are allowed to know it." He stood up as he added, "Because you''re my wife."

    Raelle followed him as she asked, "So, you don''t mind it?"

    "I don''t," he answered. He tucked her hair behind her ear, "Have you been feeling guilty about it? Is that why you''ve been so silent?"

    "I don''t know if it''s guilt or not, but it didn''t feel good for sure," she told him.

    Shui Xian smiled at her lovingly as he led her to the other side of the park. There was a ferry docked and people were getting on it. Shui Xian also took Raelle with him on to the cruise ferry.

    "It seems likeing here wasn''t out of the blue. You had it all nned."

    Shui Xian didn''t hide it as he nodded his head, "Indeed, I thought we could have dinner on a cruise tonight." He first took her to the deck and they stood there looking at the brightly lit nightscape. "Did you hear anything else?"

    "For instance?"

    Shui Xian tried to find something in her eyes and ended up sighing as he shook his head, "Forget it." He took a pause to contemte something before saying, "Don''t think that the reason I don''t talk about my previous rtionship is that I miss her. It''s nothing like that. You said you''re not interested in knowing about my previous rtionship or how or why it ended. That''s why I don''t talk about it."

    "I still am not curious to know," she answered. "I might be more interested in knowing... Did you ever regret agreeing to marry me?"

    "Nope. Not even for a second!" he answered firmly. "I don''t have that many regrets in my life. There is only a short life, what''s the point of having so many regrets? I neither regret loving my ex-wife nor did I ever regret divorcing her. Even if that rtionship hurt me, I still can''t regret it. When I don''t even regret that how can regret having you by my side?" He touched her nose like he usually did as he added, "They say after every adversity one is blessed with good fate. In a way, you are my good fate."

    "You can''t be the judge of that so soon," said Raelle.

    "Actually, there is one thing I do regret," he continued after a minute. "But that has nothing to do with you."

    "What do you regret?" she asked.

    "That special wedding ring of my mother''s, I used it to propose to my ex-wife. I regret not getting it back. That ring holds a deeper meaning to B¨¤ and yet, I can''t get it back for him."

    "Do you want me to get it back for you?"

    "And how will you do that?" asked Shui Xian in amusement.

    "Don''t underestimate your wife. I''m very capable."

    Shui Xianughed heartily, "As if I don''t know that." He looked into her eyes with a gentle gaze, "This confidence of yours is the reason, I''ve fallen in love with you." Raelle blinked at him nkly as he went on, "I can already tell you heard me say that to Yue Fai. I wanted to choose a good moment to say this to you but then again, any moment is good enough as long as you''re with me. So, I''ll just say it... Raelle Xiang, I have fallen in love with you."

    *Boom! Boom! Boom!*

    All of a sudden, the sky lit up with colorful fireworks that decorated the night sky in beautiful colors. Raelle looked at the sky and then looked at him, "You did it?"

    "I did not," replied Shui Xian innocently. "This firework show has nothing to do with me. But that''s true that I knew it''ll happening tonight."

    "I didn''t notice before but Hubby, you''re quite a schemer," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian shrugged his shoulders nonchntly, "You can''t me me for that. I have to be a schemer to get my wife."

    "I''m already your wife though," she reminded him.

    Shui Xian hugged her in his arms as he whispered close to her ear, "I''ll say the same words to you that I said to Yue Fai. I don''t think I''ll ever get tired of loving you all on my own. As you once said, a rtionship doesn''t just need love to work out. Love can be just an added bonus."

    "Are you changing your beliefs for me?" she asked him.

    "No, I''m trying to understand your beliefs instead," he answered. "And I don''t think there is anything wrong with trying to understand my wife. After all, it''s all for the sake of our rtionship."

    "And earlier you said I''m turning into a sweet mouth. Why don''t you check your own? Yours is sweeter than ever."

    Shui Xianughed at her and said, "Let''s go inside. It''s time for dinner."

    "By the way, you own an airne but you made me board a public cruise. Don''t tell me you don''t own a cruise ship."

    Shui Xian licked his lips and feigned a cough before saying, "I do own it. But I thought it''d be going overboard."

    Raelle looked at the buffet hall that only had the two of them on the third floor and she gave him a look, "And yet you didn''t think it was overboard to get the whole floor to ourselves. You even asked our chefs to make this buffet."

    "Baby, how do you figure that out as well?"

    Since he knew that she didn''t enjoy food from outside, he had indeed asked the house chefs to prepare all this. And yet, he got caught. It was really difficult to hide things from her.

 Chapter 243 - Tyrant

    "Just one more bite," rang a gentle elderly voice inside the hospital room.

    Grandfather Xiang was feeding Hyson with his own hands without feeling anything wrong with this situation. Yes, Hyson was old enough to eat on his own but how can be the second spoiled one in this family if he did that.

    Hyson was whining as he shook his head, "That''s enough, Opa! I don''t want to eat anymore."

    "You can''t survive on intravenous drips, my little prince," said Grandfather Xiang. "Just eat a little more."

    Hyson pouted unhappily, "Then get me something else to eat. I can''t eat anymore of this nd congee. I hate it."

    "Just bear with it for a couple more days," Grandfather Xiang seemed to be coaxing him like he was a little kid. "I promised you before that you''ll get anything you like as soon as you get better. For now, you can only eat light things. Liquid food is best for you that''s easy on the stomach."

    *Knock! Knock!*

    A bodyguard stepped inside and informed, "Elder Xiang, Young Master Fai has guests."

    "Who is it?" asked Hyson.

    "Mr. Pei Zi Hong and Miss He Rou."

    Hyson''s brows jumped up in surprise and soon he ended up smiling, "Let them in."

    "Since your friends are here, I''m gonna go out for a couple of hours. Take care of yourself. I''lle back soon," said Grandfather Xiang.

    "Opa, my cotton and candy..."

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head at his request, "I''ll ask someone to bring your cotton and candy to you."

    "Yay!" Hyson almost jumped on the bed in happiness.

    Grandfather Xiang left when Pei Zi Hong was led inside Hyson''s room with He Rou in tow. Since Pei Zi Hong was Hyson''s bandmate, it wasn''t odd that he was here to check up on him. But as for He Rou... Well, even though she was in the same crew as him, they weren''t really acquainted. It was surprising that these two people woulde to see him together.

    Entering the room, Pei Zi Hong almost ran over to Hyson''s side as he checked him up and down, "Xiao Fai, how are you? Does it still hurt? I heard you had to get surgery as well. Was it serious? How could you not even tell me about it? We have been together for years and yet you hid your condition from me."

    Pei Zi Hong wouldn''t have learned about Hyson''s condition if it wasn''t for He Rou. And when he did learn about itst night, he was truly mad at Hyson for not even bothering to tell him or anyone from their group. Even though he knew that Hyson liked to keep to himself, he was still angry about the current situation.

    "Zi Hong Ge, you also didn''t tell me that Miss He Rou is the girlfriend in your scandal online," Hyson shot back instantly.

    Pei Zi Hong was stumped for words as he gazed at Hyson who smiled innocently at him. But in all these years, Pei Zi Hong hade to understand Hyson somewhat and that''s why he could tell what was behind this innocence.

    "You''re just as keen as always," remarked Pei Zi Hong.

    Hyson shrugged his shoulders, "When I first joined the group, Zhen Ge gave me a piece of advice. He said this morous world might swallow me up if I didn''t keep my eyes open."

    Pei Zi Hong smiled softly, "Zhen Ge has been quite protective of you from the first day you joined us." Then he held He Rou''s hand and made her stand beside him as he went on, "I never intended on hiding her from you all. But when the scandal broke out, not even one of you asked about the identity of my girlfriend."

    "We knew you must have your reason to hide it," answered Hyson. He also looked at He Rou and added, "And see, we were right. She is a top movie actress. Your scandal will only get bigger if her identity got mixed in."

    He Rou pursed her lips and said, "I''m sorry, Hyson. I should have taken care of you at the crew. Even when Zi Hong asked me especially to take care of you, I couldn''t do a good job. I''m really sorry for that."

    Hyson shook his hands saying, "Oh, please! Don''t be like that. It''s my first time meeting you as my Zi Hong Ge''s girlfriend. Don''t make me a scum by saying sorry like this." He gave Pei Zi Hong a look and continued, "What if Ge beat me to pulp behind your back? He won''t let me live in peace if I made his girlfriend upset."

    "Stop talking nonsense, Xiao Fai," said Pei Zi Hong. "I''m not a tyrant."

    Hyson smiled at him, "Of course, you''re not. You''re just a good friend and an even better brother to me." His smile deepened and he took a moment to inquire, "By the way, I don''t think the news of my injury got on the news. How did you learn about it? Even if Miss He told you about my injury, how did she know about my surgery?"

    "Sora told me that you have had surgery two days ago," answered He Rou for him. "Apparently, she learned it from her brother and was worried. But she couldn''t find a way to reach you. I asked my grandfather and he helped me in learning about which hospital you''re staying in."

    "Wow! Miss He''s family is resourceful," said Hyson.

    "As if yours isn''t," retorted Pei Zi Hong.

    Hyson gave him a look, "Zi Hong Ge, my family is very simple."

    "Simple?" repeated Pei Zi Hong. "From the very first time I met you, I never believed the fact that you came from a simple family. This incident only proved me right. You and your family are anything but simple."

    Hyson feigned innocence as he said, "Zi Hong Ge, I think you have some misunderstanding about me and my family."

 Chapter 244 - Never Cross Her

    "I don''t think so," retorted Pei Zi Hong. He wasn''t gonna fall for Hyson''s words or his innocent eyes. Both were equally deceiving. "After this incident, only an idiot would believe your words."

    Hyson had just turned eighteen when he was scouted and was also added to the group with Pei Zi Hong and others who had been training for three years and were just about to debut. Hyson was thest one to be added and he was directly added to the debuting group which aroused quite some suspicion in thepany.

    Originally, the four of them felt bitter about Hyson''s sudden entry. After all, they had been training for so long and went through so much to get to this stage but this neer was directly allowed to debut. Hyson also understood their standpoint and didn''t feel bad about it at all.

    While everyone was specting over why or how Hyson made his entry so abruptly like a dark horse. Hyson proved through his singing talent that he was right where he belonged. While it''s true he was scouted for his face but when he sang, even the agent manager who scouted him couldn''t help being shocked.

    As people say, some people are born with talent. Hyson was exactly that kind of a person. He didn''t have formal training and neither did he knew plenty ofplex singing techniques. He sang from his heart and that was his strongest point along with his beautiful voice that could enchant anyone.

    After some interaction with Hyson, Pei Zi Hong has once asked him, ''Which family do you belong to?''

    Hyson had answered honestly, ''Senior, you won''t know even if I tell you. Ie from a simple family.''

    Pei Zi Hong believed him rather reluctantly though since from Hyson''s mannerism, he was certain that he didn''te from a simple family. The way he carried himself wasn''t like normal people. There was a noble air around him and the perfect speech manners only emphasized that he grew in an aristocratic family. But Hyson always told him that he was from a simple family.

    However, even after years of knowing each other, Pei Zi Hong had actually never met this ''simple'' family of Hyson.

    "Zi Hong even told me to be careful around you," added He Rou. "He said he believes you aren''t a normal chap. I should do everything to save myself and facts have proven, he wasn''t wrong."

    Hyson rubbed his forehead when he heard that from them, "Zi Hong Ge, I only have my mother as my direct family. But the things that have happened in thest couple of days have been done by my best friend. In other words, you can say it''s done by my extended family. As I said earlier, I am simple. But I am acquainted with not so very simple people."

    "Who is your best friend?" inquired He Rou. "Is it President Raelle Xiang?"

    The way her eyes were sparkling made Hyson flinch back in surprise. "How do you know about her?"

    "I''m an only daughter. I don''t have any siblings. Acting is my dream and I promised my family, I''ll only act until I''m thirty andter I''ll inherit the family empire. You can say I''ve been trained to inherit the business all my life. I''ll be the dumbest one in the world if I didn''t know about President Raelle Xiang at all." She took a pause and added, "My grandfather and my father both repeatedly instructed me to never cross her."

    "Who is Raelle Xiang?" asked Pei Zi Hong curiously.

    "Shh..." He Rou put her finger on her lips gesturing him to keep his voice low. "Don''t say that name out loud."

    Seeing her reaction, Hyson burst outughing, "Miss He, my Ellie isn''t a devil. Trust me, she won''t show up just because you said her name out loud."

    He Rou put her fist before her mouth and cough a little to hide her embarrassment. "It''s not that actually. I admire her a lot. I''ve always been in awe whenever I read about her aplishments before. But today, I''m in fear."

    "Why?" Pei Zi Hong inquired.

    "Zi Hong, didn''t you read the news today that Xu Corporate filed for bankruptcy?"

    "I did."

    "That''s her doing. As soon as the stock market opened today, Xu Corporate''s share fell like a storm. It shook a lot ofpanies. And it''s also a reminder for everyone that President Raelle has decided to settle in this country." She looked at Hyson in admiration as she continued, "She really loves you a lot."

    Hyson rubbed his temple, "She really goes overboard."

    "Well, because of Xu Hua, you could have died. I don''t think she did anything wrong. If anything happened to Zi Hong, I''d do the same." She tightened her hold on Pei Zi Hong''s hand. "In fact, I heard that Xiang family has filed for a case of attempted murder on Xu Hua as well. Is that true?"

    "To be very honest, I have no idea," answered Hyson for her. "Whatever she is up to, she won''t let me know about it."

    "Xiao Fai, you sure she is just a friend? She is quite possessive of you."

    Hyson gave a look to Pei Zi Hong, "Ge, she is married. Even if she wasn''t, spare me. Being her best friend is already tiring enough." Although he spoke like that, one could clearly see the love in his eyes for Raelle. Yes, it was tiring to have her as a best friend but so what? He was used to it now.

    He was so used to it that he couldn''t even imagine his life without that tiring girl around. She was infuriating and she did love to go overboard but sigh... What could he do? He loved this best friend of his. There was no way around it. Just no way at all.

    "If anything, she is my soulmate in the friend''s category."

    "What?"

    "You won''t understand our rtionship. Just know that she is a part of my family. So maybe you''re right. I really don''t have a simple family."

 Chapter 245 - Busted

    He Rou instantly stepped up and smiled sweetly at Hyson, extending her hand towards him she said, "Let''s get along well in the future." Her toothy grin was only widening more as she added, "From the moment I acted with you during the audition, I knew you''re special."

    "You sure this treatment isn''t because I''m Raelle Xiang''s best friend?"

    He Rou shook her head, "No way. That''s an added bonus. I wouldn''t want to get on her bad side." She got a phone call and after talking for a minute she told them, "It seems I can''t stay for long. I have to get back. But I''lle to see you again."

    "It''s alright," said Hyson.

    "I''ll bring you some rib noodles next time, I heard you like that," said He Rou.

    Hyson brightened up, "Oh, thene soon. I''ll be waiting."

    He Rou smiled at him and left. Seeing her leave Pei ZI Hong turned to Hyson and told him, "She wasn''t lying. She had always found you special. In fact, she is the reason why you''re called for the audition." Hyson narrowed his eyes at him and Pei Zi Hong instantly cleared himself, "I have no hand in it. She hade up with that idea after seeing the onlineparisons."

    *Knock! Knock!*

    "Young Master Fai, your friends are here to see you."

    This time, Hyson didn''t even ask who they were as he said to bring them in. He could already tell who came. He looked at Pei Zi Hong and asked, "You told them?"

    Pei Zi Hong rubbed his nape sheepishly, "I only called Zhen Ge because I was worried about you."

    "Well, thank you! That mother hen is gonna stew me alive in guilt now."

    Pei Zi Hong pursed his lips trying to suppress hisughter.

    Just as he had expected, Lin Zhen entered the room with the other two following behind him. They all came to circle around his bed and then it began...

    "Xiao Fai, how are you doing?" began Lin Zhen.

    "What happened?" asked Fang Yiwen who was wrapped around inyers of clothes even though the weather had already started to take a turn. But his pale skin was really not in a good rtionship with the sun so this vampire usually hid withyers of clothes to avoid getting burned by the sun.

    "You didn''t even tell us about your injury and neither about your surgery," added Huang Shuyi.

    "I always treat you like my own youngest brother," said Lin Zhen. "How could you not even inform me? I was so worried when Zi Hong called me." He touched Hyson''s forehead and asked, "How are you feeling now? Does it still hurt?"

    "Zhen Ge," interrupted Fang Yiwen. "Our Xiao Fai and pain exist in different realms. This idiot never even winced when he used to fall while practicing. Shouldn''t you be clear about how he is?"

    Lin Zhen ignored him as he continued to say, "Just because he doesn''t show it doesn''t mean it doesn''t hurt."

    "Yes, mom!" eximed Fang Yiwen making Hysonugh at him. For some reason, Fang Yiwen loved to annoy Lin Zhen. It was a fact that Lin Zhen was like a mother taking care of all of them but only Fang Yiwen ever voiced it out without any scruples.

    Actually, Hyson was really happy to see all of them here. And their concern wasn''t faked either. They really cared about him and that meant a lot to someone like Hyson who had no siblings or a family per se. His first introduction to the warmth of a family was from Raelle''s family. Later, these group mates became another family without him realizing it.

    Seeing them talking,ughing, and just being there with him made Hyson really happy.

    There was another knock at the door and this time, Hyson''s eyes sparkled when he looked who it was. "Aiyah! My cotton and candy are finally here. Come to brother!"

    The person who brought the cage with those tiny white, fluffy birds kept a straight face but his group mates couldn''t do so. Hyson excitedly took the cage and opened the door. As he took out his little birds, he rubbed their head lovingly with his pinky finger. They felt so soft to touch. Afraid that he might hurt them, he actually put them on his head.

    YES! ON HIS HEAD!!!

    "My mum always says that my hair is like a bird''s nest. So, I hope this nest isfortable for you both."

    "Pfft!"

    Soon, the burst ofughter echoed throughout the room. The tiny birdsfortablyzed on Hyson''s head as if it was really afortable nest.

    "Oh my gosh! I have to take a picture of this!" said Huang Shuyi. "I think I''ll be missing out on this rare moment if I didn''t."

    "Why didn''t I think of that?" added Fang Yiwen and Pei Zi Hong.

    Lin Zhen shook his head at this bunch of kids, "Can''t you guys be serious? Xiao Fai is sick!"

    "Our Fai is strong," said Fang Yiwen as he came and wrapped an arm around Hyson''s shoulder to take a selfie as well. "Besides, we are here. Now, he''ll be alright."

    "Really? Wen Ge, you have magic?" asked Hyson.

    "Of course, I do," answered Fang Yiwen. "My love for you is like magic! It has the power to heal you."

    "Oi! Dramatic chicken! Just shut up already!" said Huang Shuyi in annoyance. "Fai, you don''t pay attention to him. ying games has damaged his brain."

    Fang Yiwen snorted at that, "Shuyi, I think excessive sleep has killed your brain cells as well!"

    "Can you both take this out of here? We are in a hospital right now. Is this really how you should be treating a patient? Have some decency!"

    Huang Shuyi and Fang Yiwen gave each other a provocative look before they both turned their eyes towards Pei Zi Hong.

    "I just realized, Zi Hong, didn''t you say you''re busy and will not being to see Fai with us?"

    Pei Zi Hong stiffened.

    "But it looks like you came even earlier than us."

    "Oohh..." These sound effects came from Hyson''s mouth. "Busted!"

 Chapter 246 - Defend Her

    With these men around, how the time flew by, Hyson didn''t even realize at all. Since Grandfather Xiang was already informed that Hyson''s friends were with him, he didn''te to disturb as well. He believed that staying with his group mates will help in Hyson''s recovery. After all, the mindset is quite essential when ites to one''s recovery.

    "Has any of you heard that ourpany is changing management?" Huang Shuyi took this moment to bring up this topic.

    "It must be a rumor," stated Fang Yiwen.

    "It isn''t though," answered Huang Shuyi affirmatively. "I had gone to thepany a lot these days because of that Idol survival show. I heard some assistants talking about it."

    "Why so suddenly? And why haven''t we heard anything regarding this?" asked Lin Zhen.

    "It''s not sudden. Apparently, this takeover has been discussed for a couple of months now. I just wonder who wants to take over our managementpany."

    "It doesn''t matter as long as it doesn''t affect us," said Fang Yiwen leisurely.

    "But how can we not be affected?" questioned Pei Zi Hong. "We are the most popr group in thepany. Because of my scandal, we are already impacted. Now, with this, don''t you think we''ll suffer the most?"

    "Then do you think we might get disbanded?" inquired Fang Yiwen.

    "There is a possibility," answered Lin Zhen. "But we shouldn''t worry for now. Nothing is set in stone for now. Maybe we are overthinking. Let''s just calm down first and take everything slowly."

    "Zhen Ge, your positivity is endless, eh!"

    "Since you all are pessimistic, I have to be the one be an optimistic one."

    "Keep me out of the pessimistic group. I''m a positive person. Even my blood group is B positive!" said Hyson happily. "I always think that my blood group is a message from God to me. I should always be positive!"

    "Herees another bundle of positivity," remarked Pei Zi Hong.

    "Our contract still had two years left," stated Lin Zhen. "As I said earlier, we shouldn''t be pessimistic. We won''t be disbanded so soon. Especially since we still have value."

    Pei Zi Hong looked at Hyson''snguid expression and asked, "Xiao Fai, you know something about this change in management?"

    "How would I know?" retorted Hyson.

    "With the level of possessiveness your best friend has, I won''t be surprised if she..."

    Before he could even finish, Hyson held up his hand to stop him. "My Ellie would never do that. First of all, she has no interest in the entertainment industry. Second, she promised me she''ll never interfere with my professional life."

    "But she broke her promise," reminded Pei Zi Hong. "She sacked the whole movie crew. Are you forgetting that?"

    "I''m not," replied Hyson calmly. "Every promise has conditions. As long as my professional life won''t harm my personal one, she won''t interfere. This time, it not only harmed my personal life but also my health. It was really beyond my control to stop her." He took a pause and added, "And you don''t have to worry at all. As soon as I get better, I''ll convince her to allow the movie to continue as well. I am not selfish. And neither is she."

    "You really know how to take her side," stated Pei Zi Hong.

    "She is the first person who ever stood up for me. I''ll never back off either." He took out his phone and dialed Raelle''s number as he told them, "Since you think it''s her, I''ll just ask her."

    The call was picked up within a few seconds, "Didn''t you get your cotton and candy, why are you looking for me now?"

    "You''re still more important to me than my cotton and candy," said Hyson.

    "So you don''t mind me taking them back?"

    "Evil!"

    Raelle didn''t say anything to that. Instead, she asked, "What is it? I don''t believe you called for chit-chat."

    "Are you the one buying thepany I''m signed with?"

    "I have better things to do in life than to take over an entertainmentpany."

    Hyson looked at Pei Zi Hong with his chin jutted out as if to say, ''I told you so!''

    "Now that you''ve called me, I should settle something with you."

    "What?" asked Hyson apprehensively.

    "Did you try to bribe my people to buy you spicy crab?"

    Hyson''s eyes widened in surprise, "Those chicken nuggets! They have a loose mouth!"

    "Hyson, behave yourself. Don''t force me to inform your mother."

    "When did you be so childish?"

    "Well, if you won''t listen to me, I''ll have to be childish and tattletale on you."

    "Won''t you feel embarrassed?"

    Raelle''s voice sounded as nk as ever as she replied, "I don''t feel anything for that matter. Did you forget that already?" She took a pause and added, "If you''re worried about the change in management of yourpany, I''ll ask someone to get the details. But no matter, don''t worry, I promise it won''t affect you or your group in any way. I''ll make sure of that."

    "A... My Ellie is still the best!"

    "Scram!" came Raelle''s voice before the phone was hung up.

    Hyson looked at his phone''s screen and chuckled to himself. Then he noticed the gazes of others on himself and smiled awkwardly. "Don''t mind that. She talks like that."

    "She really doesn''t talk nonsense, eh?" said Fang Yiwen.

    "Time is money to her, and she''d rather not waste it," answered Hyson honestly.

    "Are you sure you both are best friends? I could hear a single emotion in her voice. It felt like she was talking to a stranger indifferently."

    "And that''s why my dear friends you should never focus on her voice. It''s her words that matters." He took a pause and added, "And yes, she is quite void of emotions as well. That doesn''t mean she doesn''t care about me. She just doesn''t know how to express it."

    "I think you''re just trying to defend her."

    "I don''t mind doing it for the rest of my life," said Hyson as he shrugged his shoulders.

 Chapter 247 - Challenges

    "Your boss works quite efficiently."

    Cloe smiled as she answered the person over the phone, "She has always been this efficient. It took you so long to notice it, Soren?"

    Soren was looking at the details of the mess that the Xu family was in. Even though the Xu family was his maternal family, he had no sympathy for them at all. He felt rather amused and pleased to see them in this condition.

    When one falls, everyone would throw stones at them. That was the condition of the Xu family right now as well. No one was willing to help them at all. And Soren was the first one to cut himself cleanly away from them.

    "If only your boss wasn''t so infuriating," said Soren.

    Cloe chuckled at his remark. "Oh, says the man who had a crush on her at first sight."

    "Shut up! Don''t ever say that again!" warned Soren. "If my wife even heard that, I''m so dead!"

    Cloeughed even louder, "Aiyo, Mr. Family man, just how scared are you of your wife?"

    "I''m not scared of her," answered Soren. "I just don''t want to hurt her in any way."

    "How thoughtful of you! Howe I never saw this thoughtfulness of yours back in college?"

    "Oh, I know," said Soren. "You didn''t see a good man like me because you''re busy wasting your time on a scum bag!"

    Cloe''s lips twitched when she heard him bring that up.

    "And if it hadn''t been for me, you''d have still been that naive and blind girlfriend whom he continued to cheat on."

    "So what do you want now for saving my life from him? Should I prostrate before you?"

    "I don''t mind," he replied smugly.

    "I''d rather snap your neck! And don''t think I can''t do that. My Chief taught me a lot of tricks."

    "Why is she even teaching you dangerous stuff?" asked Soren. "Don''t be such a tough girl. Men like sweet girls."

    "Can you stick with one statement? Back then when you made me face my scum bag boyfriend''s betrayal, you told me girls should be tough enough to fight for themselves. And now, you''re changing statements?"

    Soren coughed, "I said that? It seems I forgot."

    "You''re getting old," retorted Cloe.

    "You''re not getting any younger either," said Soren. "Even that scum bag ex of yours has settled down. What are your ns?"

    "No ns," answered Cloe. "Do you also want me to settle down like everyone else?"

    "No," said Soren. "That''s not what I meant. I just feel like you''re trying to run from something. Just because of one failed rtionship, you''ve closed off yourself. That''s not fair to yourself. I''m not asking you to settle down. That''s your choice entirely. No one can force you for that. But what''s wrong with dating? Even if you don''t want to take it seriously, just have some casual rtionship. As I said, you aren''t getting any younger. Don''t waste your twenties like this. It''s your time to make some mistakes. Why are you so uptight?"

    Cloe was quiet for a minute before she said, "You''ve gotten better at talking now."

    "My wife is awyer," reminded Soren as if that was enough to exin why he was getting so good at talking. But then again, it was actually enough of an exnation for Cloe. "That just reminded me, my wife''s brother is single. And he is quite a nice guy as well. Do you want me to arrange a date?"

    Cloe snorted at him, "Soren, you''re acting like the neighborhood aunties who are eager to set blind dates."

    "You''re one of the only friends from college that I''m still in contact with. So, I just want the best for you. There is no hurry. Just let me know if you''re interested." He took a pause as he looked at the time and said, "I have a meeting. I''ll contact you again. Say thank you to your Chief for taking care of the Xu family. It saves me the trouble of doing it. So, I''m truly very thankful to her for this."

    "I''ll let her know," answered Cloe and hung up the phone.

    She picked up a file and walked over to Raelle''s office. After knocking, she entered and told Raelle what Soren said to her while she set the file on Raelle''s table.

    "Isn''t the Xu family his maternal family?" inquired Raelle. "Why does he hate them so much?"

    "Let''s just call it family drama," answered Cloe.

    "Well, who doesn''t have some family drama," said Raelle as she continued to read the content of the file before her. "Oh, help me check who is acquiring the MJ Entertainment Company."

    "Yes," said Cloe as she noted it down on her iPad attentively. "Chief..."

    "Hmm?"

    "Can I go to check up on Hyson tonight after work?"

    "You can juste with me," said Raelle without lifting her eyes. "Anything else?"

    Cloe was happy to hear that and carefully told her the details of the ongoing projects that she had to deliver to Raelle. Then she added, "Soren told me that he has a project at hand that he wants us to coborate on. More specifically, he is seeking your expertise. And he thinks you might be very interested in this project."

    "What''s it about?"

    "It''s a military Air Defence project," she gave the basic details she was aware of. "He said he will discuss this in detail with you and he is certain you wouldn''t be able to resist being a part of it."

    "Such confidence?"

    Cloe could only say, "Perhaps, he is well aware of your interest by now. You like challenges and he seems to have figured it out."

    "There is also a possibility that you told him that."

    "I''d never betray my Chief," said Cloe firmly.

    "Tell him to send me the details first. Only then we''ll see whether I''m interested in this challenge or not."

    "I''ll let him know about this." Cloe took the files that Raelle signed before leaving her office.

 Chapter 248 - Cinderella

    In the evening, Cloe left the office with Raelle since they both had the same destination. They both wanted to visit Hyson at the hospital and Raelle just offered to give Cloe a ride there. Because Cloe rarely took her own car out.

    When they arrived at the hospital parking lot, Cloe was surprised to see that Shui Xian was already waiting there. Even though he had arrived earlier, he was still leaning against the car to wait for his wife. And when Raelle stepped out of the car, he rushed over and engulfed her in his arms.

    Cloe had to curse under her breath for this unnecessary dog food that was just shoved down her throat. Really? Her Chief''s image was crumbling in her hearttely because of this husband of hers.

    Or it''d be more precise to say that whether it was Raelle or it was Master Xian himself, they both had a new image in her mind now. There was no way around it.

    Shui Xian greeted Cloe politely.

    With his hand on Raelle''s waist, Shui Xian walked towards the elevator with Cloe following behind them. The three of them reached the floor where Hyson was and even before they could reach Hyson''s room, they could hear his voice.

    Raelle was the first one who took a turn and came to the nurse''s station. And right there, her dear best friend was holding a guitar and crooning in his beautiful voice.

    ?When life''s a mystery

    Then take the road less traveled

    And pave the way for someone else

    Your tracks will set you free

    Even if the road unravel

    The path was always in yourself

    So take the reins and hem the seams

    And all your hopes and tattered dreams

    And paint a world where there''s no need to cry, cry

    Be yourself Cindere

    (Oh, be yourself)

    ''Cause no one else could do It better

    (Oh, be yourself)

    And when that clock strikes midnight

    Even if those kicks don''t feel right

    I''ll stand by you forever

    So be yourself Cindere

    Just be yourself Cindere? (Song: Cindera; Singer: Boyce Avenue)

    Shui Xian leaned close to Raelle''s ear and said, "I just realized, your best friend has a natural talent for collecting love."

    Raelle didn''t say anything to him but she did look around. The nurses at the station had infatuated gazes as they looked at Hyson. Even Cloe had a sweet smile as she looked at Hyson. Although Raelle never doubted Hyson''s talent, she still had never seen the effect of his voice on girls like this before.

    It was almost like he had cast a spell on the listener and they couldn''t extract their souls from the charms of his beautiful voice.

    When he stopped singing, loud apuse rang out and it startled Hyson who put a finger on her lips to hush them up. It was not nice to make such loud noise inside a hospital. He put the guitar aside and crouched down before a little girl. Wiping her tears, he said, "Little cindere, your daddy will be fine. You should stop crying now."

    The little girl blinked her tear-filled eyes as she asked, "He will really be fine, right?"

    Hyson nodded his head and allowed the little girl to wrap her arms around his neck. He patted her back soothingly tofort her. He hade across the little girl while he was taking a walk around. Her father was in surgery and she kept crying hysterically. Seeing her like this, Hyson couldn''t help getting close to her.

    He wanted to make her smile and he tried everything. He told her a joke, did some silly things but none was effective. In the end, he borrowed a guitar from someone and decided to serenade her. At least, it managed to make her stop crying finally.

    "He really does all sorts of things," remarked Raelle. "As a matter of fact, he just loves to do troublesome things." She held Shui Xian''s arm and said, "Let''s wait for him inside the room. He will being back there anyway."

    Shui Xian gazed at Hyson deeply before he nodded and followed her to Hyson''s room.

    "He keeps reminding me that he has a beautiful heart," said Shui Xian.

    "He just loves getting involved in things that don''t concern him," said Raelle nkly. "But then again, it''s this reason why he and I met in the first ce."

    Shui Xian looked at her curiously, "So, if he hadn''t been fond of troublesome things, he wouldn''t have met you?"

    Raelle nodded her head, "Yup! He and I would have walked past each other if it weren''t for his habit of courting trouble."

    "At least, something good came out of his habit," said Shui Xian.

    "Chief, do you want anything?" asked Cloe as she came inside after knocking on the door.

    "Your working hours are over," answered Raelle. "If I want something, I can ask someone else to get it."

    "But there is no one here," said Cloe.

    "I think something is wrong with your eyes, Cloe. Howe you can''t see my tall, handsome husband?"

    Cloe''s jaw dropped to the floor and even Shui Xian''s eyes widened in surprise. She never thought her boss could be so shameless one day. Wait! Raelle Xiang was shameless enough but it still seemed different in this situation.

    Shui Xian nced at Cloe and smiled, "You should take it easy. As long as I''m here, I''ll get whatever she wants. No need for you to worry."

    Cloe smiled awkwardly and stepped inside. But stood far away from this couple. A single soul like her wasn''t having fun around this couple. Especially since her love life had been exceptionally pathetic.

    However, being around them actually made her want to trying dating again. It must be because of Soren''s nonsense but she was seriously considering dating again. And he wasn''t wrong either, she had been holed up for far too long. Did she really have to waste her whole life just because of one scumbag?

 Chapter 249 - Dating Apps

    To be honest, it wasn''t that Cloe had wasted years over just a scumbag. The reason why she had been single for so long was her dear boss. And no, Raelle had never banned her employees from dating. There wasn''t even a ''no dating'' rule in herpany. As long as their personal lives won''t affect their professional lives, Raelle had no problem with them.

    It was just that working with a boss like Raelle, Cloe had always wanted to prove herself. Maybe she strived for the better because she believed that she deserved better than that scumbag who cheated on her. And because of this belief, she had been working hard for herself all these years. It was a shame that along the way, she forgot about dating.

    Since Raelle had no partner since Cloe started working with her, Cloe had never felt like there was anything wrong with staying single. But now, it was that same boss who was making Cloe feel like she really needed to get out on the field again.

    ''Perhaps, I should go on that blind date Soren was talking about,'' Cloe thought to herself.

    The door of the room opened and Hyson stepped in. Seeing the people inside waiting for him, he paused and soon continued to his bed.

    "Hi, Cloe!" Hyson waved at her pleasantly. "Did youe here to see me?" Cloe nodded her head and he went on, "Aww... How sweet of you!"

    "How are you feeling now?" inquired Cloe.

    "I''m feeling so good that I think I can start flying," replied Hyson jokingly.

    "There is the window," Raelle''s voice was heard as she pointed towards the window. Seeing Hyson''s brows raised up inquisitively, she went on, "Jump."

    "Jump? Do you want me to break my bones?" asked Hyson.

    "Didn''t you just say you can fly?" retorted Raelle. "If you can''t even act upon your words, don''t talk nonsense."

    Hyson gritted his teeth while his eyes narrowed.

    Cloe received a text and she excused herself, "Give me a minute. I''ll be right back."

    As she went out, Raelle asked him, "I heard you had quite a lively day."

    Hyson grinned and nodded, "I did. Zhen Ge, Yiwen Ge, Zi Hong Ge, and Shuyi Ge, all came here for me. And we had a lot of fun."

    "I''ve asked Cloe to inquire about who is acquiring the MJ Entertainments," told Raelle. "I''ll let you know when I learn about the whole situation."

    "To be honest, I don''t care who acquires it," said Hyson. "I''m just worried about my group''s situation. Thepany had been trying to suppress us since Zi Hong Ge''s dating scandal broke out."

    "Why are you worried?" asked Shui Xian who had been quietly listening until now. Hyson raised his brows at Shui Xian and thetter answered, "I mean, with such an impressive best friend, how can you be worried?"

    Hyson stared at Raelle before saying, "She is impressive. There is no doubt about that. But I don''t like depending on her. Especially when ites to my profession."

    "And you don''t have to depend on me either," said Raelle. "Your talent alone is enough for you to shine."

    Hyson smiled softly at herpliment and said, "Talent alone is not enough. You and I both know that. There are so many talented people in this world but not everyone manages to shine."

    "This profound Yue Fai scares me a little," said Shui Xian.

    Cloe came back with a bouquet of flowers that she offered to Hyson, "Get well soon!"

    Hyson smiled at her beautifully and took the flowers before asking, "I don''t get it. Why send flowers to a patient? They can''t eat them. Wouldn''t it be better to send some snacks instead?"

    "You''re not allowed to eat snacks yet," reminded Raelle.

    "I''m just saying," shrugged Hyson before he looked at Cloe. "Anyway, thank you so much. Although I can''t eat flowers, I still like them a lot. It''s still better than someone who didn''t even bother to bring anything." As he spoke, his eyes were pointing towards Raelle, who didn''t bother to pay him any attention.

    "Cloe, where did you get the flowers at this time?" asked Raelle because she genuinely wanted to know. She didn''t think there was a flower shop around.

    "I booked an order online," answered Cloe. She showed Raelle her phone, "There is an app for this. In fact, these days there is an app for everything. Food, drinks, fruit, flowers, you name it. Everything will be delivered to your doorstep."

    "Can you order a boyfriend as well?" asked Raelle.

    Cloe sighed out, "No. That one is not avable at the moment."

    "Poor you!"

    Cloe''s eyes widened when she heard Raelle''s reply and looked at her expressionless face. Maybe it was her illusion but she really thought that currently, Raelle was teasing her. But she shook that thought out of her head immediately. After all, who was her boss? Raelle Xiang! This boss didn''t know anything about teasing. Right? Right?

    Hyson also pursed his lips to hide hisughter. Out of everyone in this room, he was the one who was most clear about Raelle''s character. And that''s why this interaction seemed so funny to him.

    Clearing throat, he said, "Well, there are dating apps. Right?"

    "There are," answered Cloe. "But the people you meet online are not reliable. What if you run into a serial killer who likes going on dates and then liked inviting you home so he could cut your organs out?"

    Hyson gulped, "That''s a very vivid description." He coughed a little before saying, "Ellie said you like watching romantic movies. When did you get into thrillers?"

    Cloe grinned at him, "I''m not into thrillers but I''ve seen quite a few crime dramas."

    "No wonder," muttered Hyson to himself.

    Cloe was also not sure when she got into crime dramas. She hated horror or thriller movies. But staying with Raelle, she had even got over her fear of horror movies. No, it was not that Raelle was scarier than a ghost. It was because Raelle''s realistic personality made her believe firmly that ghosts weren''t real.

 Chapter 250 - Mini-Concert

    "By the way, I really enjoyed your mini-concert," said Cloe grinning from ear to ear. "I am already a huge fan of your voice. But it was my first time hearing it live. And perhaps, it was because you are sick but there was a raspiness in your vocal tone that really pierced through my heart."

    "He just can''t stay still," said Raelle.

    Hyson gave her a look, "I can stay still. It was just that the little girl was crying so pitifully. I just wanted to make her smile. I tried telling her jokes but she didn''tugh. I also tried a lot of things but nothing worked. In the end, I found a guitar and she seemed to be interested in that. So, I just yed a song for her."

    "But the song you sang for her," started Cloe. "She is a little girl. Don''t you think you should have sung her a kids song or maybe, a nursery rhyme?"

    Hyson pouted at her, "But I don''t know any nursery rhymes."

    "Obviously, you won''t know any nursery rhymes from now but you must have remembered some from your childhood?" questioned Cloe. "In my case, I still remember, ''Friends and neighbors,e along Friends and neighbors, singing a song Always be kind, right from the start Love one another deep in your heart Love one another deep in your heart.''"

    Seeing her expectant eyes, Hyson shook his head, "I really don''t know any nursery rhymes or kids songs."

    Cloe frowned at that, "How is that possible? Your teacher must have sung it for you. Or your mom must have also sung it to you when you were young."

    "Cloe!" Raelle''s voice startled Cloe. Although there was no change in her voice from usual, Cloe still thought she could hear the anger in her voice. Strange!

    Hyson shot Raelle a smile before answering Cloe, "My mum can''t speak." Cloe was frozen when she heard that from Hyson. "So, she never sang any song to me. She didn''t tell me any bedtime stories as well."

    "I..." Cloe opened her mouth to say something but honestly, she had no idea what she was supposed to say at all. "I''m sorry."

    "For what?" asked Hyson. "It''s not like it''s your fault that she can''t speak." Usually, Hyson would not talk about his mother''s disability because he didn''t think it was a disability. But people around him from a young age tried to make him believe that it was a disability. He didn''t like that. "Do you know why my best friend is so precious to me?"

    Cloe shook her head.

    "When she first learned that my mum can''t speak, she didn''t react like others," answered Hyson. "She didn''t look at my mum differently. She didn''t ask how it happened. On the other hand, she asked me, ''How did you learn signnguage?''" Hyson chuckled to himself at the distant memory that he cherished so much.

    Shui Xian was also gazing at Raelle when he heard that. He could already imagine Raelle reaction or theck of reaction. In fact, without Hyson continuing, he could already guess that from that point on, Raelle must have learned the signnguage with interest.

    He ced his hand on Raelle''s head. His wife really was special and that''s why her way of looking at everything was also special. And that''s what set her apart from the rest.

    "Chief is chief," said Cloe.

    Hysonughed at her, "She isn''t that great though. She is also really petty."

    "Oh really?" This one came from Shui Xian who was also curious to know how his wife was petty.

    "About two years ago, Ellie was hospitalized because she had fainted from overworking," began Hyson. "She was staying in the hospital and when I went to see her. I purposely bought a wide variety of food that I ate alone while sitting right in front of her. And just yesterday, she did the very same thing to me! She did it because of her petty revenge!"

    Shui Xian was surprised to hear that. He had been curious about why Raelle had lunch in the room where Hyson was staying. They could have eaten the lunch out but she purposely chose to eat right before his eyes. But it never crossed his mind that she was just trying to get back at Hyson for something he did two years ago!

    "Whates around, goes around," was the only response that Raelle gave him.

    Hyson gnashed his teeth, "See? She is petty! Moreover, she never forgets anything! So you better think before you speak to her. This girl''s brain can recall the smallest details. You wouldn''t want your own words toe back to bite you in the arse!"

    "Since you''re so energetic, I believe you''re recovering well," said Raelle. "Then I should be leaving now."

    "Already?" asked Hyson.

    "Why? Should I stay here to hear you whine even more?"

    "I''m not whining," argued Hyson. He excitedly pulled out his phone and showed a photo to Cloe, "Cloe, look at my cotton and candy. Aren''t they pretty?"

    Cloe looked at the photo of two birds who were sittingfortably on Hyson''s head and then her eyes wandered off to Raelle thoughtfully, "Chief, you dyed your meetingst week because of these birds, right?"

    Raelle shrugged her shoulders but didn''t say anything in reply.

    Cloe''s eyes narrowed. She always thought Raelle was a calctive person who only cared about profits. But she actually dyed the meeting for a million-dor project because she was discussing details of how to get those birds here from J Country.

    Then her eyes moved to Hyson was excitedly telling her how cute those birds were. Seeing his bright smile, Cloe was stunned. It suddenly dawned on her that profits were still really precious to Raelle. But the scope of profits was wide. In this case, Hyson''s happiness was a lot more profitable to her than anything else.

    ''It seems I have to learn about you all over again, Chief,'' Cloe thought to herself.

 Chapter 251 - About Your Youth

    ''And then I fell in love with you

    I let that love consume my soul

    Who knew in the end,

    I''d have to leave you alone.''

    "When did you be a poet?"

    Yue Yue was so startled by Mu Chenyan''s voice that she ended up dropping the pen and the diary that she held in her hands. She didn''t even realize when Mu Chenyan had sneaked behind her.

    She turned around and started hitting Mu Chenyan who groaned, "Hey! Why are you hitting me? What did I do wrong?"

    ''You scared me!'' said Yue Yue with her hand sign.

    Mu Chenyan almost rolled her eyes at her, "How is it my fault? I called you so many times but you''re in your world. So, I came to check up on what was wrong with you. Didn''t think you''d be lost in poetry writing."

    Yue Yue shook her head at Mu Chenyan and picked up her diary from the floor.

    Mu Chenyan crouched down before Yue Yue and looked up into her eyes as she questioned, "Usually, you don''t recall this lost love of yours. I wonder what happened." Seeing how Yue Yue avoided her eyes, her brows knitted up, "Did youe across him recently?" Yue Yue was stunned at how easily Mu Chenyan read through her.

    ''Stop ying detective,'' said Yue Yue.

    "If you don''t want to tell me, it''s okay," said Mu Chenyan as she stood up. "Oh, I was calling you to ask if you want to go out for dinner tonight or should we eat at home?"

    ''Home,'' came the answer from Yue Yue.

    "Yeah, let''s eat at home. I don''t want to run into my brother again." Mu Chenyan really had doubts about her luck since she had already run into Xiang Hulin twice. And there was no guarantee that there won''t be a third time. So, it was better to just avoid it altogether.

    As Mu Chenyan was about to leave, Yue Yue held her hand to stop her and asked, ''When are we going back?''

    "Why? Is something wrong? Why do you want to go back so soon?" inquired Mu Chenyan. "Is it really because you ran into your first love?"

    Yue Yue knocked on her head, ''I just want to see my son. I feel like he is hiding something from me. So, I want to go check up on him in person.''

    Mu Chenyan was stunned to hear that. Indeed, a mother knew her child best.

    "Maybe you''re just overthinking it," she tried to divert her attention.

    Yue Yue narrowed her eyes at Mu Chenyan, ''He is my son. I know him best. He likes to hide things from me only when he gets hurt. He never wants to get me involved in things that bother him. He thinks his mother is weak.''

    "I don''t think that he thinks his mother is weak though," said Mu Chenyan. "If anything he just doesn''t want his strong mother to be weak because of him."

    ''But he is all I have.''

    "And you''re all he has as well," answered Mu Chenyan. "Listen, Yue. Maybe our Fai is hiding something from you but he must have his reason for that. He is old enough to make his own decisions. Even if he is in trouble, he is old enough to solve it himself. He can''t hide behind you for life."

    ''I don''t want him to hide behind me. I just want him to share his worries with me. I''m strong enough to bear everything with him.'' She looked quite helpless at the moment and seeing her like that Mu Chenyan felt super guilty.

    "He will share everything with you when he thinks the time is right. He always does it. You must know that our Fai is just as bad of a liar as our Elle is. Both are peculiar. Fai is good at hiding things but not for long. He will eventually let it all slip but only when he feels that it''s time."

    Yue Yue thought about what she said before asking, ''So, we are not going back?''

    Mu Chenyan chuckled as she replied, "No, we are going back. Just give me a couple more days. Then we''ll go back."

    ''Why do you want to stay here?'' asked Yue Yue. ''I still don''t know why you even came all the way here.''

    Mu Chenyan pressed her lips together and didn''t answer.

    ''Did youe for that patient at the sanitorium?''

    Mu Chenyan thought about it for a minute before nodding her head, "Yes, you''re right. I indeed came here for that patient. Sorry for dragging you here with me."

    Yue Yue shrugged her shoulders nonchntly, ''I don''t mind. I got to see Nanzhou City''s beautiful spring for the very first time in my life. I can''t believe I never knew this city looked this beautiful in spring.''

    Mu Chenyan smiled at her, "You are right. This city indeed is a beauty."

    This city and even the people here were really close to Mu Chenyan''s heart. It''s been years since shest came here so this visit was quite nostalgic to her. She usually didn''t get attached to ces but this city was different. She spent her childhood, her rebellious youth here.

    Every part of this city reminded her of the story of her youth where all that mattered to her was how she was going to cause trouble. Thinking back, she could onlyugh at things she had done.

    "I wish I could show you the house where I spent my youth," said Mu Chenyan.

    ''This is not where you spent your youth?''

    Mu Chenyan shook her head, "No, this is where I spent my early childhood. Most of which I don''t even remember. This is Mu House that belonged to my parents. I spent my youth at Xiang House in the military housing society. It was close to the barracks. But I can''t take you there since Ge lives there now. If I went, I''ll run into him again."

    ''I''m actually curious to know about your youth.''

    Mu Chenyanughed it off. She didn''t want to tell her best friend that she was a total troublemaker in her youth. Not the cute kind but the kind which made people want to beat the hell out of her!

 Chapter 252 - On A Trip

    Usually, Shui Xian would wait for Raelle at the hospital after office hours but for some reason, today Raelle found him waiting in the parking lot of her own office building. She didn''t know that Shui Xian would being here so she paused slightly when her eyes fell on his figure.

    He had taken off his suit jacket. His shirt''s sleeves were rolled up. His tie was nowhere in sight but since the first couple of buttons of his shirt were undone, his chest skin was definitely perfectly in her sight.

    Raelle walked over to his side and asked, "What brought you to me?"

    "You," he answered with a smile before leaned down to drop a kiss on her forehead and wrapped his arm around her shoulder.

    As he opened the door of the car for her, she asked, "Are you here especially to pick me up?"

    "Yes," he answered sinctly.

    "Why?" she asked as she settled inside.

    He didn''t answer immediately, instead, he got inside the car and told the driver to start driving before he turned to look at her. Taking her hand into his own, he told her, "You have toe with me somewhere."

    "Where?"

    "Airport," he answered.

    "Airport?" she repeated. Thinking of something, she went on, "So, B¨¤ is reallying back today?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "Yes, he is."

    Raelle''s eyes continued to observe his expressions and said, "You have something else to add to that statement?"

    Shui Xian chuckled softly, "Babes, you really can read people''s minds."

    "Not really," she responded nkly. "But I am pretty good at reading their expressions."

    Shui Xian nodded in agreement and took a deep breath before telling, "It seems I''ll have to go on a business trip."

    "Oh..."

    "I tried to avoid it but it''s not working. I''ve been dragging it for weeks now and it seems I can''t drag it any longer now."

    "Why have you been avoiding it?"

    Shui Xian pressed his lips before answering honestly, "I didn''t want to leave my wife alone. Or maybe I should rephrase it. I didn''t want to go away from you." He waited for her to say something but when she didn''t he asked, "You won''t ask me to stay?"

    "No," she answered truthfully.

    "Heartless!" he said looking quite aggrieved.

    "You should know I don''t have a habit of dragging people down. If it''s your work, I''d nevere in between that."

    "And you''d expect me to do the same, right?" he asked in return. "But guess what! If I can I will get in between you and your work."

    Raelle didn''t pay attention to his ''threat'' as she went on, "Hubby if I ask you not to go, will you not go?"

    Shui Xian opened his mouth and forgot what to say. He ended up sighing out, "I wish I could avoid it."

    "See? You can''t do it," said Raelle. "Then why should I put you in a difficult position by making you choose between your work and your wife? These two are separate things. I don''t like it when people confuse these two."

    "I don''t whether I should be happy that I have such a sensible wife or feel sad about it instead,"mented Shui Xian. He yed with her fingers as he said, "But I wish you''re a little unreasonable at times." Taking a deep breath, he shook his head and smiled at her, "However, it''s alright. We have all our life before us. I''ll teach you how to be an unreasonable wife eventually. Trust me!"

    "Oh, you can teach me that? How? Have experience being an unreasonable wife?"

    Shui Xian choked on his words when she said that. He pinched her nose, "Whatever! If you can''t be the unreasonable wife, I''ll just turn into the unreasonable husband."

    "I don''t think you have to try hard for that," said Raelle with a straight face.

    Shui Xian looked straight into her eyes. She was calling him unreasonable in this roundabout way, wasn''t she? Howe he didn''t know his wife had this side to her as well?

    "How long are you leaving for?" asked Raelle after she thought of something.

    "For now, the n is to sort out everything within a week. And if nothing unexpected happens, I''ll be back to you before you even know it."

    Raelle nodded her head at his answer.

    "You can move back home. Since B¨¤ ising back, it''ll be better for you to stay there."

    "I know," she answered.

    "I heard Yanyan is alsoing back in two days," said Shui Xian. "Then it''ll be livelier than now."

    "It will be," she responded.

    "I have a surprise for you back at home," he told her.

    "Surprise?" she asked. "Don''t you know I don''t like surprises?"

    "I do," he said. "But I still wished to surprise my wife. And I wanted to be there to see your reaction as well. Now that''s not possible though. However, it doesn''t matter. As long as it''s something you''ll enjoy."

    "What exactly is it?"

    "Not telling," he said. Thinking of something again, he added, "I''ll call you whenever I get time. You better pick up my calls."

    "Okay."

    "And reply to me texts as well."

    "I will."

    "Eat your meals on time."

    "I always do."

    "Take short breaks in between work. Don''t overdo it."

    "Alright."

    "Don''t bring work home just because I''m not there. Use that time for something else."

    "I won''t bring work home."

    "Why are you agreeing to it all so easily?" he inquired since she kept on saying yes to everything so easily. Not that he was expecting her to argue with him but he still found it strange.

    "Opa says when someone is going on a trip, one should not make them sad. So, if by doing just this, you''ll be happy, then why not. It''s not like you asked for a difficult thing. Since everything you said is already in my capability, I''ll do it for you."

    Hearing her answer, Shui Xian pulled her in his arms.

 Chapter 253 - Keeping Distance

    "Why are you like this?" he whispered softly.

    "Like what?" she asked.

    Shui Xian shook his head since he possibly couldn''t tell what he even meant himself. It was truly difficult to describe his wife.

    "Master Xian, we are here," informed the driver.

    Shui Xian could only let her go and alighted down from the car. First, they moved to the arrivals and waited for Shui Koshing toe out since his flight had alreadynded. While they waited there together, Raelle asked him, "Did you pack your suitcase?"

    "Hmm... I asked the maid to pack everything."

    "Did you check whether you have everything you need with you or not?" inquired Raelle.

    "I did," answered Shui Xian.

    "That''s good," said Raelle.

    Just standing there together, both of them caught a lot of attention as always. But they both had grown immune to the eyes of people who had nothing better to do except for staring rudely at others.

    No one could say anything about what Raelle felt but as for Shui Xian, actually, it did bother him a little. Although he had been getting unnecessary attention since he was young, he had never really gotten used to itpletely. He thought he had it under control after years but now that those eyes were pointed at his wife, he was really losing his patience.

    "What are you both doing here?"

    Shui Xian''s eyes focused when he heard that question and looked at his father. He frowned a little when he saw his father. For some reason, he felt like his father was looking weaker than before.

    Shui Koshing shook his head, "I only asked the driver to pick me up without telling you both. Howe you both knew?"

    "You promised my wife you''ll being within two days," answered Shui Xian. "I didn''t think you''d not keep your promise."

    "Still, you both didn''t have toe. We could meet at home."

    "Not really," spoke up Raelle. "If you had gone home, you would not be able to meet my Hubby. He is going on a business trip."

    Shui Koshing frowned when he heard that and looked at his son, "You''re going on a business trip?" Shui Xian nodded his head which deepened Shui Koshing''s frown. "How long have you been married for? And you''re already leaving my daughter-inw alone? Is this something you should be doing?"

    "I wish she would have reacted like you," said Shui Xian. "But she seems perfectly fine with the fact that I''m going."

    Shui Koshing looked at Raelle who said, "Work is work, B¨¤."

    Shui Koshing patted her head affectionately, "Aiyo, my daughter-inw is so sensible." Then he turned to his son and inquired, "When are you leaving?"

    Shui Xian looked at his wristwatch to check the time and answered, "I have an hour before the ne takes off." He took a moment and said, "B¨¤, I''m leaving my wife in your care. Please, take care of her." Shui Koshing was amused by his son''s words. "Try to spend more time with her. Don''t just let her bury her head in books."

    "Are you ordering your father right now?"

    Shui Xian shook his head immediately, "No. I''m just requesting here."

    As the three of them moved towards the Departures, Shui Koshing asked his son in a low voice, "Is it really urgent? Why are you leaving so suddenly? And where are even going?"

    "I''m going to Meiji," answered Shui Xian. "There is somend dispute going on and someone is making trouble for us. The construction has been halted. I sent people to solve it but they are also useless. Now, I have to go myself or the project will be dyed."

    Shui Koshing nodded in understanding. Although he had distanced himself from work, Shui Xian had been keeping him informed regarding all the projects under theirpany. So he was well aware of what Shui Xian was talking about and why it was urgent for him to leave.

    "Alright. How long do you it''ll take?" asked Shui Koshing. "Normally, I don''t interfere with how you work but this time I have to. You better get everything sorted out as soon as possible ande back to apany my daughter-inw."

    "You''re really worried about your daughter-inw?"

    "I am," answered Shui Koshing honestly. "How can I not be? I want you both to strengthen your bond and that is only possible when you both are together."

    "Not necessarily," said Shui Xian. "Haven''t you heard, B¨¤?" Shui Koshing raised his brow while Shui Xian went on, "Distance makes the heart grow fonder."

    "Oh really?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head. "Yes, really! Besides, some distance is always good in a rtionship. What if she got tired of me?"

    "And why would she be tired of my son?"

    "Have you forgotten that your son is a clingy person in love?" asked Shui Xian. He had no shame to ept that when he loved someone he became extra clingy with that person. It was just the way he was.

    Shui Koshing looked over at Raelle who was walking ahead of them and said, "I don''t think she''ll get tired of you."

    "You have quite some faith in my wife?"

    "I do actually," answered Shui Koshing.

    It wasn''t that Shui Koshing was really familiar with Raelle that he said it but from what little time he had spent with her, it was enough to make him believe in her. She took everything in life seriously and sincerely. She didn''t do things half-heartedly. And she''d never take her marriage half-heartedly either. That was why he was so reassured leaving his son in her care.

    Shui Xian smiled at his father, "B¨¤, even I know she won''t get tired of me. I was just saying it. But seriously, I really think we should keep some distance from each other."

    "Why?"

    "To give both of us some space to gather our feelings," answered Shui Xian as he eyes bore into the back of Raelle''s head.

 Chapter 254 - Wife Slave

    "Take care of yourself and keep me posted," said Shui Koshing as he patted his son''s shoulder.

    "I will keep you posted," answered Shui Xian and gestured with his eyes. Shui Koshing was trying to understand what his son was trying to say. It took him a while toe around.

    "Oh, I want to drink some juice. I''m gonna go get it for me," said Shui Koshing as an excuse to give space to his son.

    "B¨¤, you can ask your steward to bring you the juice," said Raelle.

    Shui Koshing took a moment before saying, "He doesn''t know what vor I like. I should get it myself." Saying that he walked away from them.

    Raelle looked at his retreating back and said, "B¨¤ is lying. But why?"

    Shui Xian instantly pinched her chin to make her look at him saying, "Why does it matter why he is lying? Let him be."

    Raelle shrugged her shoulders.

    Shui Xian wrapped his arms around her waist as he looked at her eyes and said, "Don''t forget about me."

    "How can I do that?" responded Raelle and allowed him to hug her for a long time in silence.

    Meanwhile, since Shui Koshing had already lied, he decided to actually buy juice from the vending machine. But he didn''t go back. Instead, he looked at his son and daughter-inw hugging from afar.

    "Elder Master, you look pleased," said the old steward who had been following Shui Koshing for years now.

    "I am pleased," answered Shui Koshing. "How could I not be when my son has finally ovee his past victoriously?"

    The steward followed Shui Koshing''s gaze and looked at Shui Xian and Raelle, "Do you think Master Xian is in love?"

    "He is," said Shui Koshing without a hint of doubt in his tone.

    "But previously, when Master Xian fell in love, he was like a burning me; raging. Now, he seems too calm. Are you sure, he is in love?"

    Shui Xian''s first love wasn''t a secret. Everyone who was familiar with Shui Xian knew about it very well.

    Shui Koshing took a sip of the juice, seemingly in deep thought before he said, "He was young back then. First love is always like a burning inferno. But we often forget that the me of first love might consume our very soul and burn us to ashes. Right now, his love is like trickling water. Calm on the outside but deep with unknown dangers. This love is more mature than thest time."

    "Are you saying Master Xian has learned how to love in the right way?"

    Shui Koshing chuckled, "There are no guidelines for love. If there were, it wouldn''t be so difficult."

    "Loving someone is difficult?"

    "No, but keeping that love alive is difficult," answered Shui Koshing.

    On the other side, Shui Xian was still reluctant to let go of Raelle. He actually felt like he was going through Separation anxiety right now since he was strangely afraid of separating from Raelle right now.

    He finally stepped away from her and said, "I''m gonna go now."

    "Okay," said Raelle.

    He lifted his hand and pinched her nose softly before he hooked his finger and brushed it over the bridge of her nose like he usually did. Lastly, he flicked the tip of her nose gently and said, "You better miss me."

    Raelle didn''t answer him, instead, she just beckoned him to lean down. As he lowered his head, she ced her hands on both sides of his face and kissed his forehead saying, "I''ll wait for you toe back to me."

    That one sentence fell like rain on Shui Xian''s heart that had been turning dry because he was going away from her. She said she''ll wait for him and that thought alone was enough to keep Shui Xian excited.

    "Then I''ll try my best to run back to you as soon as possible," he replied to her with a big smile.

    Putting his hand on the back of her head, he pulled her close and kissed her lips. This kiss was gentle but filled with his feelings that he couldn''t put into words right now. He had been away from home more often than not and yet it was the first time he was feeling so reluctant to leave. He was reluctant to leave her behind. How could he not be?

    Even on normal days, she would wait for him at home. He had be so used toing home to her.

    "All the instructions you gave me, make sure you follow them as well," said Raelle when he pulled away. "Don''t work overtime just because you want toe back home soon. I can wait but you better pay attention to your health. You''ve finally started eating three meals a day, better not mess up this routine."

    Shui Xian chuckled at her, "I''ll listen to my wife''s order."

    Shui Koshing came backughing heartily, "Finally, someone can rule over my son. What a sight! Master Xian, you look like a wife ve."

    Shui Xian gave his father a look, "What can I do? My waifu is just that great that even I have to bow my head before her."

    "Waifu?" questioned Raelle.

    "Waifu." Shui Xian answered with a big grin pasted on his lips.

    "Aren''t you gettingte?" reminded Shui Koshing.

    Shui Xian checked the time and groaned inwardly before nodding, "Alright. I''m leaving now. Take care of yourself."

    "You''ve already said that a hundred times," said Raelle.

    "I can''t help it," responded Shui Xian. He was really going crazy for repeating the same thing over and over again.

    As he finally turned to leave, he had only walked for a few steps when he heard Raelle''s voice, "Xian!" When Shui Xian turned around, he was hugged by Raelle and was left stunned. "Come back soon."

    Shui Xian rubbed the back of her head saying, "Yes, boss!"

    As she stepped back, she waved his goodbye and watched him go inside. But even when she couldn''t see him any longer, she didn''t leave. For some reason, she just stood there looking in direction he left.

 Chapter 255 - Father & Daughters

    On their way back, Shui Koshing asked Raelle, "Dear daughter, did you miss me?"

    Raelle looked at his sparkling eyes waiting for an answer and she pressed her lips together not knowing how to answer that. She knew that she didn''t like the fact that she couldn''t find him at home whenever she came back but could that be defined as missing him?

    "Didn''t I tell youst time that I think I did miss you? Why would you even ask that again?"

    Shui Koshingughed out when he saw her struggling to find the right words and said, "I was just looking for that positive reply." Thinking of something he asked, "So, did you like the house I prepared for you both as a wedding gift?"

    "It''s quiet," answered Raelle. "I like it."

    Shui Koshing finally rxed, "Now I''m happy that you said that. You can tell me if you want to change anything. Now that I''m back I''ll fix everything."

    "There is no need to change anything," said Raelle. She looked at Shui Koshing thoughtfully before saying, "B¨¤, you look worn out." Shui Koshing looked at her as she went on, "Are you alright?"

    "I am," said Shui Koshing.

    "I don''t think so," said Raelle. "I can tell your health has declined in the past week. Did you not take care of your meals? Or did you not rest well? Why does it seem like you''re weaker than before?"

    "It''s nothing like that. I ate well and I slept well as well," said Shui Koshing.

    "Then something must be bothering you," countered Raelle. "And your health declined because of stress. Am I right?"

    Shui Koshing stared into her eyes, "My dear daughter, why are you paying me so much attention? I''m not used to it."

    "You''re not used to the attention I''m giving you?" asked Raelle and he nodded his head.

    Raelle could see a hint of sadness sh in his eyes as he told her, "Since my wife died, I was left with no one who would give me this much attention. And honestly, I''ve grown used to theck of attention as well. Don''t spoil my habits again. These habits are the dangerous part of one''s life."

    "I don''t just call you B¨¤," began Raelle. "You already know I don''t do anything against my own conscience. I truly respect you as a father. I never had one but I like having you around. I mean it. So, I have to take care of you. You''re a part of my family and family is the one thing I hold dear in my life."

    Shui Koshing''s eyes teared up at her words and he ced his hand on her head. "I just came back. Do you want me to start crying already?"

    "That''s not my intention," answered Raelle. "I won''t say anything if you don''t like it."

    "Who said I don''t like it? I like it a lot. But I''m old now, and age has made me a little sensitive. That''s why I easily end up crying. So, go easy on me a little."

    "I''ll take note of that in the future."

    "Yes, please do."

    Raelle watched his wiping his tears and said, "Now that you''ve mentioned it, I do think you look older than you really are."

    "What? How is that possible? I was told I''m quite young."

    "Yes, but after this one visit to your hometown, it seems like you''ve aged a decade."

    Shui Koshing didn''t argue with her. Because he really had nothing to argue about. His daughter-inw was too good at observing everything. She could read his mood perfectly well. She could already tell that he didn''t have a good week back in his hometown but he didn''t want to exin it to her.

    She obviously deserved to know everything but he didn''t want her to get involved in his family drama. He had already distanced himself from that family for his son''s sake. Now, he''d do anything to keep his daughter-inw away from those people as well. There was no point to get connected with a family that was nothing good. They were more like wolves in sheep clothing.

    He wished to keep Raelle far away from those wolves.

    As they reached home, Raelle said, "B¨¤, freshen up and then we can have our dinner. It''s about time and you must be hungry."

    "Dear daughter, I just want to sleep peacefully in the bed I''m familiar with," said Shui Koshing.

    "B¨¤, I can''t let you sleep on an empty stomach. Just have something to eat and then you can rest."

    Shui Koshing really couldn''t say no to her so he nodded, "Fathers should never argue with daughters because they can''t win anyway. I should learn that lesson by now."

    Raelle offered him one of her practiced smiles, "Yes, you should get used to it."

    He was about to go upstairs when he said, "Why don''t we call Uncle Yu for dinner as well. I heard that Chenyan isn''t back yet."

    "Opa must be with Hyson at the hospital and he''ll have his dinner with him there. You don''t need to worry about him."

    "Hospital? What happened to Uncle Yu?" Shui Koshing was startled. He always respected Xiang Tianyu but since his own father''s death, he had be even closer to Xiang Tianyu. Now, hearing that he was at the hospital, his heart almost jumped out in worry.

    Raelle shook her head at him, "B¨¤, Opa is fine. It''s Hyson. He got into an ident. Opa is just apanying him."

    Shui Koshing patted his chest to calm himself before asking, "Wait? Did you say Yue Fai got into an ident? Is he okay? What happened?"

    "I''ll take you to see him tomorrow. Stop worrying about him as well. He is already jumping around like a monkey. He is a tough one. He won''t get hurt this easily."

    "But I''m still worried about him. Let''s go with what you said. We''ll go to see him early in the morning, okay?"

    "If you say so," said Raelle. "Now, go and change your clothes now."

    Shui Koshing nodded his head and went to his room while Raelle continued to climb the stairs to the third floor.

 Chapter 256 - Stranger

    "Elder Master!" The house Help knocked on Shui Koshing''s door anxiously.

    "What is it? I was just about toe down," said Shui Koshing in a gentle voice. He didn''t seem like he was annoyed by the sudden knocking.

    The house Help had tears in her eyes as she told him, "Elder Master, we have a guest and she is very rude. You better go down to check up on her."

    Shui Koshing looked at the house Help who was in herte twenties and was trying to hold her tears back. He calmed her down saying, "Kid, calm down first. It''s okay. I didn''t think you''d end up crying so easily."

    Then he went downstairs while the house help hid behind him as if he was gonna shield her from a monster. It was quite a scene to see her have such trust in her employer. But since Shui Koshing always treated every one of them like family, all of them really had faith in their employer.

    As soon as Shui Koshing came down and looked at the ''guest'' his steps paused.

    The house help pointed at the girl from behind him, "Elder Master, it''s her. She thinks she is the owner of this ce and had been insulting us all."

    Shui Koshing frowned when he heard that and said, "Kid, go to the kitchen. I''ll take care of her."

    The house help nodded her head and almost ran towards the kitchen.

    He heard a snort and then heard the voice of the girl, "I see you''re still treating them like family. When are you gonna learn a lesson? You got backstabbed by your servant and lost your wife and yet here you''re treating them like family. I really have no words for you."

    Shui Koshing closed his eyes to settle his emotions before saying, "What I do is my business. What are you doing here?"

    Amiah narrowed her eyes at her father and scoffed, "I heard you''re out of town and that''s why I came to this house. But it seems I got the wrong information." She shook her head, "It''s my bad luck to run into you. Whatever! You call my brother out. I have nothing to talk with you."

    "Xian is not home," answered Shui Koshing without a single change in his expression. He looked way too indifferent towards his one and only daughter. To the point that it even made Amiah feel ufortable. She could hardly believe it was the same father who always pleaded with her toe back home and now didn''t even want to spare a single look.

    "Where is Ge?" she inquired.

    "He is a busy person," said Shui Koshing. "Besides, he is old enough to make his own decisions. Why would I dictate where he can or can''t go?"

    She sneered when she heard that from her father, "Oh really? But don''t you usually love to dictate other''s lives?"

    "Watch what you say," warned Shui Koshing.

    "Why should I?" retorted Amiah in anger. "Isn''t it true that you still love to dictate other''s lives? You''re the reason why Ge married that woman. If it wasn''t for you, he''d have the right to choose his own life partner. But you couldn''t even see that. You just never want to see your kids happy. That''s why you used to tell us where we can go and who we can meet with. And if someone goes against your words, that person is unfilial. But guess what? I don''t care whether I''m unfilial or not. I lost my mother because of you, it is a lot better to not have a father like you."

    Shui Koshing stood there taking her criticism. He was done exining himself. He was already old now. He had lost the wish to spend time with his daughter. He was tired of a daughter who questioned him at every single step. Who never believed in his good intentions.

    His wife''s death was his biggest regret in life and yet, his daughter loved to rub it on his face at every single chance she got. But now he was so tired that he didn''t even want to reprimand her. Besides, she didn''t take him as a father, what right did he have to rebuke her or discipline her?

    "I don''t think B¨¤ is particrly interested in having a daughter like you as well."

    Shui Koshing''s eyes widened and he turned his head to look at Raelle who stood at the flight of stairs with her arms crossed against her chest. Her eyes were on Amiah Jade who was fuming but seeing Raelle, she ended up taking a step back. The fear from that car incident was deep-rooted in her heart and her body unconsciously stepped back because of Raelle.

    But when she realized what she did, she took a step ahead and puffed out her chest proudly and confidently as she called out, "What the hell are you doing here?"

    Raelle came down and Shui Koshing tried to say something, "Elle..."

    He was worried about Raelle seeing another ugly side of his family. He loved his daughter but she repeatedly disappointed him. Now, he couldn''t even tell the difference between his own daughter and the wolves back in his hometown. Everyone just wanted to pounce at him.

    Raelle gave him a smile to reassure him, "B¨¤, go inside and wait for me. I''ll join you at the dinner table in just a minute."

    Shui Koshing thought about it before nodding his head, "Alright. Come soon." He knew no one could win against Raelle. It was his own daughter''s loss toe across someone like Raelle at this time. He couldn''t even spare the energy to sympathize with Amiah right now.

    Raelle gave him a nod and turned to Amiah who was ring at her hatefully.

    "I asked what the hell are you doing here?" roared Amiah once again since Raelle calm demeanor got on her nerves.

    Raelle tucked her hair behind her ear as she answered, "This is my house. Where else I''d be? In fact, I should be asking you the same question. What are you doing here, stranger?"

 Chapter 257 - Huffing & Puffing

    "I am not a stranger!" gritted out Amiah as she faced Raelle nk gaze. "I am Amiah Jade! I have more right on this house than you!"

    Raelle took a step towards her and that one move felt oppressive to the other girl. Even though Amiah was actually older than Raelle in age but at this moment, the younger girl had a striking momentum.

    After all, Amiah only dealer with actors and directors or investors. But Raelle was the big boss who called the shots. Her bearing was quite different from Amiah''s. So, it was no surprise that Raelle was able to overwhelm Amiah just with her presence. Especially since she had left a traumatic shadow on Amiah''s conscience.

    "There is no one named Amiah Jade in our family," said Raelle in her usual calm voice.

    Amiah opened her mouth but nothing came out. It was true, Amiah Jade didn''t exist on the Shui Family tree. After all, she changed her name after she cut herself off from this family.

    Amiah clenched her fists tightly and said, "I don''t want to talk to you. I was here to see my brother and he isn''t here."

    "Then you should leave now since the one you''re looking for isn''t here," replied Raelle.

    "Who are you to tell what I should do?"

    "I think you already have an answer to that question."

    Amiah looked at her suspiciously, "So, you''re really the woman my brother married?"

    "You have a problem with that?"

    "I do?"

    "Good. Keep it to yourself since whatever problem you have, it has no ce in my rtionship with your brother."

    Amiah snickered at Raelle, "Do you think just because you married my brother, you own the world? You have it all?"

    Raelle lifted her finger and shook it right in front of her in a no-no manner before saying, "I am Raelle Xiang. I owned the world long before marrying your brother. The only difference is, that I also have him now."

    Amiah''s eyes widened at her infuriating words. "Who do you think you are?"

    "Shui Xian''s legal wife," answered Raelle matter-of-factly.

    Staying true to her personality, Raelle really knew how to have an infuriating conversation. Or more like, she knew how to annoy others with her words. Especially since the other person can''t even deny her words. After all, all she said were facts!

    Amiah didn''t want to take the shorter end of the stick, so she thought of something and looked at her proudly, "So what if you''re my brother''s wife? Anyone can take that position. He had a wife before you as well. What happened? Eventually, she was also removed from that position. So, don''t be so proud. As for me, I''m different. I''m his only sister. We are blood-rted. And you must have heard, blood is thicker than water. You''re nothing before me."

    "You think too highly of yourself,"mented Raelle. "No wonder your brother is tired of you."

    "My rtionship with my brother is my matter, it doesn''t concern you at all!"

    "Right back at you!" said Raelle. "My marriage is also my matter. Don''t poke your nose where it doesn''t belong."

    "If I knew Ge wasn''t here, I''d have never stepped inside this house."

    Raelle pointed behind her, "You see that door there. It''s still open. You can find your way back."

    "Living in my brother''s house, you really consider yourself to be the owner of this ce."

    "Not really," said Raelle. "I''m just a resident here."

    "As long as you''re self-aware," mocked Amiah.

    "But you aren''t even a resident here," reminded Raelle that stiffened Amiah''s gloating smile. "Your brother is also just a resident in this house. Since the real owner of this house is B¨¤. We live here because he allows us to." She stared into Amiah''s eyes and went on, "So, next time you raised your voice in front of our B¨¤... Last time, I stepped on the brakes on time. There won''t be the next time."

    Amiah bit her lip hatefully but she didn''t know what to say. She had be too used to talking to her father however she liked. Today, a third person was calling her out for her behavior! It was just simply infuriating.

    "If you''re waiting for me to invite you to stay for dinner," began Raelle. "It''s not impossible. As long as you go inside and apologize to our B¨¤ sincerely, I''ll also invite you to stay for dinner."

    "I''ll never apologize to him!"

    "That''s your loss!" said Raelle shrugging her shoulders. "Since you don''t n on doing that, I have no interest in entertaining a guest who can''t respect the host of the house. So, kindly, you can leave our house now since you''re not weed here." Seeing how Amiah was standing where she was without moving, she added, "I don''t like repeating myself."

    Amiah felt like if she spent another minute around Raelle, she''d be angered to death, so she chose to turn around and leave silently. A good soldier knew when to retreat. She''d get back at Raelleter on. That''s what she nned in her head.

    "When on a tiger''s back, it is hard to dismount[1]," she heard Raelle voice from behind who quoted a proverb out of nowhere. As she looked back at her, Raelle exined, "I think this proverb described what you''re going through very well."

    Amiah stomped her foot and left huffing and puffing.

    Raelle wasn''t wrong though. The proverb really described Amiah''s condition. She had already done way too much damage. Whether it was in her rtionship with her father or her brother, now apologizing to her father was out of the question. Because she believed what was done was done. Since she already had carved an image of her father in her mind, she was gonna stick with that in the long run.

    [1] ''When on a tiger''s back, it is hard to dismount'': When taking risks you have to live with the consequences, it is difficult to back out.

 Chapter 258 - Beat Him!

    After making Amiah leave, Raelle went inside and joined Shui Koshing at the dinner table. Thetter was looking at her face but as always couldn''t figure out much.

    "B¨¤, start eating already. Weren''t you really sleepy earlier?"

    Shui Koshing nodded his head and picked up his chopsticks to eat. As for Raelle, she found a problem now that she sat down at this familiar dinner table. Something was missing. Oh, her husband wasn''t here to pick the food for her and put it in her bowl. What a tragedy!

    But she didn''t spend too much time thinking about it and finally, picked the food for herself. Strangely, even though she had been married to Shui Xian for over a month, it was her first time to pick the food for herself at this table. For some reason, her husband had always been enthusiastic about serving her food.

    "Was she particrly rude to you?" inquired Shui Koshing cautiously. Raelle looked up at him. "I''m sorry! Maybe, I didn''t raise her well. She has a different temperament and can say some mean things. But trust me, she isn''t like that. She is a nice and sweet girl."

    "Nice and sweet?" repeated Raelle. She wondered if one could really use these words to describe the girl she just met. Because she didn''t think so!

    "She is," insisted Shui Koshing. "She just forgets everything before her anger."

    Raelle didn''tment on that. As a father, of course, Shui Koshing would try to justify his daughter''s actions no matter how upset or hurt he was because of her.

    "You don''t have to apologize to me for anything, B¨¤," said Raelle. "I usually don''t take people''s words seriously. Her words weren''t even enough for me to remember. So, stop stressing yourself over it. Are you nning on ignoring your health even more now?"

    Shui Koshing pursed his lips and focused on eating.

    There wasn''t much talking between them during the dinner since Raelle wasn''t a fan of talking while eating and also because Shui Koshing had too much on his mind right now. He excused himself after dinner. He was tired and wanted to just go back to rest. Raelle didn''t try to stop him either.

    But when she came upstairs to her room, she found it quite empty without Shui Xian. There was no one peeking nces at her from some corner of the room. There was no one trying toe up with some random thing to talk to her. She was all alone in this room tonight.

    She wanted to take a book to read when Shui Xian''s words rang in her mind that she''s not supposed to spend her time with books while he is gone. But at this moment, what else could she really do?

    Since she didn''t know when Shui Xian would reach his destination so she couldn''t call him. From the message on her phone she knew that Hyson was busy ying chess with Opa so she couldn''t disturb those two either. So, she finally called Mu Chenyan.

    "What a pleasant surprise!" even before she could see Mu Chenyan''s face on the screen clearly, she heard her voice. "Am I dreaming? Howe my Elle is calling me at this time?" Looking at Raelle''s face, she inquired, "Is everything alright? Did Xian do something?"

    "What can he do?" retorted Raelle. "It''s nothing like that."

    "You can tell me if he did something, I''ll teach him a lesson for you," said Mu Chenyan patting her chest.

    "Don''t you think I can teach a better lesson?"

    Mu Chenyan smiled at Raelle, "Indeed, my Elle can do it better." She took a pause and added, "Enough with the jokes. Tell me seriously, where is Xian?"

    "He went on a business trip," answered Raelle.

    "I knew it!" said Mu Chenyan. "I knew that he must not be there or else you would never call me at this time."

    "Why can''t I?"

    "Isn''t it, your husband''s time?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "You really know me way too well," said Raelle.

    "My dear Elle, you''re like a riddle which has no right answer."

    "Really?"

    "Really!" replied Mu Chenyan and looked at Yue Yue asking, "Am I right, Yue?"

    As she moved the screen, Raelle was able to see Yue Yue nodding her head in agreement. It seemed even in her family everyone considered her a riddle.

    Raelle took a moment and called out, "Yanyan!

    "Yes, my darling!"

    "I have something to ask."

    "Go ahead."

    "Imagine, one day I raise my voice at you and vent all my anger on you. How would you feel?"

    "I''d be over the moon!" replied Mu Chenyan without even thinking.

    "Huh?"

    "If my Elle darling learned to actually vent her anger, it''d be the day for me to celebrate. I don''t give a fuck whether you yell at me or beat me up! I''d be just content with the fact that you finally showed some emotion. Even it''s just anger."

    Raelle was left staring at Mu Chenyan''s genuine smile through the screen. She meant everything she said. She''d really be over the moon if one day, Raelle snapped at her.

    "I guess you''re the wrong person to ask this question," said Raelle. Then she looked at Yue Yue, "Yue, what about you? What if Hyson ends up raising his voice at you or say something really hurtful? How would you feel?"

    Raelle had a purpose for asking this question. The purpose was simple. She wanted to understand the look she saw in Shui Koshing''s eyes. From everything she learned, she just couldn''t define that look in his eyes. There was disappointment, exasperation, suppressed anger, guilt, and what else?

    Yue Yue tapped her chin thoughtfully before saying, ''If my son did that, I''ll first beat the hell out of him.''

    "Oh, good one!" added Mu Chenyan. "A son who can''t respect his mother should be beaten up. I''m with you on it."

    Yue Yue stared at Mu Chenyan, ''You''d be the first one to save him from me.''

    Mu Chenyan smiled sheepishly, "Well, our Fai is so cute. How can you even bring yourself to hit him? Besides, that cutie pie of ours can never say anything hurtful to you."

    Raelle watched them getting deeper into this argument of whether Hyson could do it or not and didn''t know what to say. Perhaps, she really chose the wrong people to ask this question. Since neither Mu Chenyan nor Yue Yue had any such experience, both of them couldn''t possibly exin to her what Shui Koshing was feeling.

 Chapter 259 - Small Things

    Since Mu Chenyan and Yue Yue got to talk to Raelle at such a time. They continued to talk for over an hour without Raelle realizing it. In fact, the ones talking would be Mu Chenyan and Yue Yue. Raelle''s only job was to add a word or two but it was enough for her to lose track of time around these two beautifuldies.

    When they finally hung up, Raelle went to get ready to sleep. She was tying up the belt of her nightgown when her phone rang. She picked up the call and looked at Shui Xian''s face.

    "Did you reach?" she asked.

    "Yeah. I just got to the hotel and thought I should let you know. So that you can go to sleep."

    "Who said I was waiting for your call? Can''t you see I''m all set to sleep already?"

    She even moved the phone camera to let him see her nightgown. It just so happens that today she was wearing a nightgown that reached her thighs. It had a plunging neckline giving him full ess to see her cleavage. Her long fair legs were also on disy. Not only that, while moving, her belt came loose and the gown slid down her shoulder slightly giving her a very enticing look.

    Shui Xian licked his dry lips and picked up the ss of water at the nightstand to take a sip.

    "Waifu, I just got here. Do you have to seduce me so early? Why are you making me already regret the decision toe here?"

    Raelle looked at him innocently, "When did I seduce you?" Seeing how his eyes were roaming around her body, she said, "This much is already enough to seduce you? Don''t you usually see it every day?"

    "When you see it every day, it doesn''t feel the same. But now that I''m so far away, I can already feel it all."

    "I think there is something seriously wrong with this logic," said Raelle.

    "Then let me rephrase it for you," replied Shui Xian. "I miss you."

    "Already?" asked Raelle. "We were just together about four hours ago."

    "Four hours have 240 minutes and there are 14400 seconds in 240 minutes. How exactly is that a short time?"

    "I don''t even want to continue this discussion," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian chuckled at her response, "Fine. I won''t continue it either."

    Raelle went to sit on the bed and leaned against the headboard with the phone in her hand. Looking at his tired eyes, she asked, "You haven''t taken a bath yet?"

    "No, as soon as I entered the hotel, I called you. Because I thought my wife would be waiting for my call. But who knew my wife would break my heart by saying that she wasn''t waiting for my call. How cruel!" Seeing how Raelle stared at him nkly, he changed his expressions and answered, "After talking to you, I''ll take a bath."

    "You can take the phone with you inside the bathroom," suggested Raelle.

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched, "Babes, what is your obsession with trying to sneak into the bath when I''m showering?"

    "It''s something I haven''t been able to aplish yet," replied Raelle matter-of-factly. "So, of course, I''d try everything to sneak my way in."

    "Even now?"

    "One should never give up no matter the circumstances."

    Shui Xian chuckled to himself happily. He felt like talking to her made him rx.

    "I might not be able to call you as frequently in theing days," told Shui Xian.

    "I know already," said Raelle.

    "And there is a chance that we won''t be able to have long calls once I started working here."

    "I also know that as well."

    "If you know everything what am I supposed to say?" asked Shui Xian.

    "You can say whatever you want to," replied Raelle.

    "But you already know everything," he argued.

    "I''ll still listen to you attentively," she told him. "By the way, what about that surprise?"

    Shui Xian knocked on his head, "I almost forgot. Get up!"

    "Huh?"

    "Get up and go downstairs," said Shui Xian.

    "Now?"

    "Yes, right now!" stressed Shui Xian. "You can go just like this. There won''t be anyone roaming around at this time."

    Raelle followed his instructions and reached the second floor. As per his directions, she opened the door of the room in the corner and stepped inside. As she turned on the lights, she was left staring at the room for a long while.

    There were high-efficiency gaming PCs set up in the room. The entire room was like heaven for any gaming fan. But it''s a pity she wasn''t one. She didn''t particrly enjoy ying video games. But she could already tell the purpose of this room.

    "You want me to y video games with B¨¤ here," it was more of a statement rather than a question.

    Shui Xian wasn''t surprised that she understood his intentions so easily. He nodded his head, "Yes. It''d be convenient to y here. And also, it''d be morefortable with these types of equipment. I wanted you to have fun while ying games." Before Raelle could say anything, he went on, "I know you don''t like ying games but you do enjoy it when you y it with others. I''ve seen it when you yed with B¨¤ or even when we had the duel."

    "Hubby, what are you up to?"

    "I''m trying to spoil my wife. Why? Is something wrong with that?"

    "No, but are you sure this is the right way to do it?"

    "I''m pretty sure it''s the right way in your case," answered Shui Xian firmly.

    Shui Xian might know about others but he knew about his wife. She had everything in life as long as she wanted it but the thing was, she never really wanted such things. Perhaps that''s why even in her teenage years, she never experienced a rebellious phase. He wanted her to experience what she didn''t experience in her younger years.

    For instance, ying hooky in school to go to gaming rooms.

    Now, she couldn''t y hooky at school but he could definitely let her experience the joy of small things.

 Chapter 260 - Keep You

    For Raelle, this surprise was really unexpected for different reasons. No one had ever offered her something like this before. She yed games with Hyson but only when she had already entered the business world. Because Hyson caught the gaming bug after bing an idol. Before that, he was a studious person who also excelled in athletes and only preferred outdoor games.

    It was only after he caught too much attention from fans that he learned about the world of video games from one of his group members and dragged her along to y with him as well.

    She didn''t think her husband woulde up with such a gift for her.

    "Hubby, your way of spoiling your wife is kind of..."

    "What?"

    "Strange," concluded Raelle after thinking deeply about it.

    "Not strange, darling!" said Shui Xian. "It''s special."

    "Oh?"

    "Aren''t you a special one?"

    "So, I''ve been told," answered Raelle.

    "So since my wife is special, she should be spoiled in a special way as well."

    "How are youing up with these reasons tonight?"

    "It''s all flowing out of my heart tonight. I can''t help it." He took a pause and asked, "You don''t like it?"

    "When did I say that I don''t like it?" asked Raelle. "Although it''s an unexpected gift, I''ll ept it since you offered it to me. Thank you, Hubby! But poor you!"

    "Huh? Why?"

    "If you had been here, I''d have offered you a thank you kiss but now you''re not here so..."

    "You can save it for me when Ie back."

    "No, but I only want to offer this kiss tonight."

    Shui Xian stared at Raelle, "You''re doing it on purpose, right?"

    "What do you think?"

    "Go back to bed," said Shui Xian as he sulked all by himself.

    While going back, she asked, "Hubby, now would you like to tell me why else did you think about this sudden surprise?"

    "I want my wife to experience everything that I once did. Gaming had been a huge part of my life. And I always wanted a gaming room like that but since I had a strict father, I never got one. Instead, I got beaten up a lot because of gaming."

    "Wait! Are you using me as an excuse to fulfill your childhood dream of owning a high-ss gaming room?"

    Shui Xianughed at her thought process and yed along, "Maybe. So, what do you say? Are you gonna be my shield?"

    Raelle pretended to think about it before saying, "Sure! I''ll be your shield."

    Then he randomly told her what happened on his way here or why he was here in the first ce in detail. It was all the boring detail but he was just using it to prolong the time of this call. Even though he knew it was already time for Raelle''s sleep, he couldn''t hang up the call.

    Then he reluctantly said, "I won''t keep you any longer. It''s your time to sleep. Go ahead."

    "I still have something to tell you," Raelle stopped him and he immediately perked up.

    "What''s up?"

    "Your sister came home," told Raelle.

    Shui Xian''s smile stiffened as he stared at her and asked, "Did she make trouble for you?"

    "Is she that capable?" retorted Raelle. "You should be asking whether I made trouble for her or not."

    "So, did you?"

    Raelle thought back to the scene and said, "I think so. Since she left with red eyes. Whether it was because she was about to cry or was she angry is something I''m not certain about."

    "My guess is it was both," said Shui Xian. Knowing Raelle, he was certain that she was capable of making his sister cry from anger!

    "Then you can''t me me. Your sister is only able to chew tender food, not the tough,[1]" said Raelle. After that, she exined everything in detail to Shui Xian. She didn''t hide anything. From the start of what she heard or how she confronted Amiah, she told everything to Shui Xian. Seeing him deep in thought, she added, "In fact, I think you should call B¨¤ tomorrow morning. He was really tired so he must be sleeping right now. It''s not good to disturb his rest so you can talk to him in the morning."

    "You want me to talk to him because...?"

    "Because I don''t know what to say to him," answered Raelle honestly. "I''m not good with people or their emotions. Sorry, I can''t do much for you in this. So, I hope you can talk to him and make him feel better. He didn''t look too well."

    Shui Xian sighed out, "He must be hurt from what Sying did today. I don''t even know how she is able to live with this much anger in her. Can''t she just move on?"

    "Well, I''m not that familiar with her so I can''t say anything about it," said Raelle. "But if you need my help in reforming her, I''m avable."

    Shui Xian smiled softly at her, "She must be cursing you already. She had three interactions with you and you have already made her cry almost in every meeting."

    "Three interactions? Are you counting that phone call we had?"

    "Yes!"

    "Do you think that phone call was enough to make her cry? She looks like a strong-headed person."

    "That is just her way to hide her feelings. In fact, she had always been a crybaby. She ends up crying over the smallest of things. There is no way, your words didn''t make her cry."

    "Should I count it as my aplishment then?" Shui Xian raised his brows at her. "Hyson says making people cry is my special talent. I should be proud of it."

    Shui Xianughed at her, "Sure. That sure is your special talent. My special wife has special quirks as well! I really don''t know what to do with you." He looked into her eyes and added, "I have an idea about what to do with you."

    "What?"

    "I can keep you."

    "Where?"

    He yed his hand over his heart, "Right here."

    [1] ''Only able to chew tender food, not the tough'': meaning unable to withstand harsh criticism.

 Chapter 261 - Troubles Are Brewing

    *Ring! Ring! Ring!*

    The incessant ringing of the phone woke Hyson up early in the morning. Even the sun hadn''t woken up yet but someone was too eager to make him open his eyes. It was just that the cruel world was against his sleep. Tragic!

    In his sleep, he didn''t even bother checking who was calling. Instead, he just ced the phone against his ear with his eyes closed.

    "Who is it?"

    "You''re still sleeping?" came a roar from the other side.

    "Zhen Ge, even birds are sleeping at this time," replied Hyson.

    "Oh, but you''ve certainly woken up a lot of people," said Lin Zhen. "And here you are worried about the birds!"

    "What happened?" inquired Hyson in a groggy andzy voice.

    "Check the hot searches. Your fans are having a party! And soon, it''s gonna turn into a murder party!"

    Hyson''s eyes opened immediately and he put the phone down. He went online and looking at the top three hot searches that all had his name, he was wide awake. What in the name of holy fried chicken happened while he was asleep!

    The top three hot searches were as follows;

    1: Little brother Hyson''s voice is sweet as honey

    2: Xiao Hyson is in the hospital!

    3: Hyson injured during the shooting

    "Umm... Zhen Ge, I''ll call youter. And don''t worry about it. I''ll fix it." Then he hung up the call and continued to scroll through the hot searches.

    He first clicked through the first one to see and found a video of 2 minutes where he was seen singing to a little girl in a hospital gown with an acoustic guitar. And that was the scene from yesterday. In this post, thements were all praising his voice or his face as always.

    Commenter No 1: Xiao Gege is so cute. And his sweet voice is all I needed today.

    Commenter No 2: As always, our family''s little Hyson is amazing!

    Commenter No 3: His voice is like honey. And do you know what''s better than honey? Just more honey!

    .

    .

    .

    Commenter No 99: Our family''s little brother is so well-mannered. He is serenading to that little girl. I can''t believe I''m jealous of the little girl right now! But Jiejie is still proud of you little brother!

    Commenter No 999: I''m surprised how no one is paying attention to the fact that our little brother is in a hospital gown! Hospital gown! Does any of you understand the meaning of that? This Jie is mad right now! What happened to our little brother?!

    Hyson went back to the hot searches and scrolled through the second one. He found out that after people started noticing that he was in a hospital, it made up another zealous discussion and shot up to the hot searches.

    Actually, Hyson found his fans to be quite cute. After all, it took them so long to even notice that he was wearing a hospital gown. Before that, all their focus was on his singing and his face.

    "What''s wrong, Fai?"

    Hyson looked up at Grandfather Xiang and smiled at him, "I am quite famous right now."

    "You''re always famous, my little prince," said Grandfather Xiang.

    Hyson chuckled, "This time it''s different."

    "What happened?"

    "Someone recorded me singing yesterday and uploaded it online. My fans seeing me in a hospital gown suddenly turned into detectives. And suddenly an insider even revealed that I got injured on the shooting set. Now, my dear cute fans are dragging the whole movie down. Well, the movie is already down. The thing is hearing criticism for ''Secret'', the book fans havee out to tear my fans apart. Now, there is a blood bath going on. Oh, and my name is being dragged for no reason."

    Hyson really wanted to find this ''insider'' who so conveniently chose to make trouble for him out of nothing. If the book fans learned that he was behind the cut of the whole production, he''d be in even bigger trouble. But for now, he needed to calm his fans first.

    He first opened his social media ount and wrote a post:

    ''Little Dews, Xiao Gege is perfectly fine. Xiao Gege is sensitive to weather and fell ill. Xiao Gege feels so embarrassed to say this. But now, I''m absolutely fine.

    P.S. It had nothing to do with the movie crew. I''m really thankful to everyone who cares about me so much! *love! love!*''

    Attached with this post was a picture of him in his hospital gown that he took yesterday with his cotton and candy sitting on his head. He loved this photo and didn''t mind sharing it with everyone. He knew his fans who were named as ''Little Dews'' would be pleased with this just this post. Since he didn''t like posting at all. This post was like rain after a long drought. Of course, his fans would be delighted!

    "What''s bothering you now?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    "Opa, do you think mum will check the situation online?"

    "I can''t tell you anything about that," answered Grandfather Xiang honestly. "Although Yue doesn''t use her cellphone that often, she does follow all things rted to you. So, it''s hard to say..."

    Hyson held his head with both his hands, "Argh! What should I do now? I even had to bed Ellie to keep it a secret. But all is in vain now!"

    "Calm down," said Grandfather Xiang. "She was gonna find out eventually. Don''t take it to heart. You''re gonna tell her tomorrow, now she would just learn about it today. There isn''t much difference."

    "But there is a huge difference!"

    He knew his mother well. If he told her everything on his own, that''d be a different matter but if she learned about it from a third person, it''d be trouble for him. So, before anyone could stir trouble for him, he had to call his mother and ept everything honestly. That was the only way to save himself now.

 Chapter 262 - Tiny Accident

    Early morning, the hues of nature bloomed anew just like a flower would reborn after withering. And the daylight bathed these hues with its own warmth.

    Golden threads of morning light fell inside the room, inviting the dreams of the night to enter the day.

    Soon, the figure on the bed started moving around. Her hair fell down over her face in a disorderly manner. She lifted her boney hands to push her hair away before rubbing her eyes to get rid of the sleepiness.

    She moved her hand around to look for her phone and it took her a while to find her phone which had actually fallen under the bed. How did that happen? Well, she didn''t know at all. And neither did she care since it wasn''t even the first time it happened.

    Seeing the 99+ notification alert, she was surprised. It seemed all the notifications were from the social media app that she downloaded only to support her son. And just as she was about to explore the details of those notifications, her phone rang in her hand.

    ''My Son'' shed on the phone screen. She looked at the time and frowned a little but she didn''t dy at all and epted the video call request.

    "Mum!" Hyson''s voice rang out.

    Yue Yue arranged her disorderly hair as she looked at her son''s face. He looked to be quite aggrieved for some reason. This made her frown deepen.

    ''What''s wrong?'' she questioned.

    When she questioned that, Hyson was surprised and a ray of hope lit up in his heart. It seemed his mother hadn''t seen the drama online yet. But he still cautiously asked to confirm, "Mum, did you just wake up?"

    Yue Yue nodded her head.

    Hyson''s worry went down by half at that confirmation. He breathed a sigh of relief and started, "I have something to confess."

    Yue Yue raised her brows at her son.

    "Mum, I''ve sinned."

    Yue Yue rolled her eyes at her son, ''There is nothing new about that, son.''

    Hyson made a face at her, "Don''t say it like that. Usually, I''m a good boy."

    ''I know,'' responded Yue Yue.

    Hyson could feel her sarcasm in that response. The sarcasm was heavy. And he didn''t even know why. Wasn''t he always a good boy?

    ''What did you do...'' Before she could continue, her eyes focused on what he was wearing and her heart shook, ''You''re in a hospital?''

    Hyson looked down at his hospital gown and nodded his head. "Yeah. That''s what I was about to tell you. I got into a tiny ident. Really, it was tiny." Before his mother could react, he continued, "Hold it! Hold your anger and your worry for a moment! Let me finish first. I''m absolutely fine! Perfectly fine. I haven''t felt this good in a long while. It was really a minor ident."

    Yue Yue clutched the sheets tightly and only loosened them when she managed to calm herself down. Looking at him carefully, she asked, ''When?''

    Hyson pressed his lips together and scratched the back of his head awkwardly before replying, "It happened about four days ago."

    Yue Yue''s eyes widened and she red at him. ''You!''

    Hyson smiled at her, "I had my reasons for hiding it from you. Don''t be mad at me. I didn''t want you to feel sad because of me. This is the first time, you''re actually out of the city for your own sake. To enjoy. I couldn''t bring myself to spoil your ns with my own stuff again."

    Perhaps there was no one in the world who felt more guilty towards his mother than Hyson did. He always felt that his mother left out a lot because of him. For his sake, she forsook a lot. And he could hardly do anything in return for her. And this was something even his mother could feel as well.

    ''How are you now?''

    Hyson perked up at her question, "I told you, I''m fine!"

    Obviously, Yue Yue didn''t believe his words. She knew because of her, her son had learned to disregard his own pain. Just so he wouldn''t make things difficult for her, he hid his pain more often than not.

    Feeling her suspicion, he added, "I''m not lying. The only reason I''m stuck in the hospital is that you know our Ellie. She takes extra precautions for no reason. Otherwise, I can even jump and dance now. Do you want me to show you?"

    ''Stay right where you are.''

    "Oh." Hyson instantly stayed still, not even daring to move an inch.

    Yue Yue rubbed her forehead in worry. Her hands were shaking since the time she heard that her son was in an ident. Minor or not, it was an ident and that was a fact. She couldn''t stop her heart from trembling in fear. He was all she had now. Yes, she often overreacted when he got hurt but just as she said, he was all she had!

    How could she not worry about him of all people?

    She tried to hide the trembling of her hands from her son and clenched her hands to get a firm grip. And only then she asked, ''Are you alone?''

    Hyson shook his head, "No way. I have my family here." He even moved the camera towards Grandfather Xiang saying, "I have the great Xiang Tianyu with me. Do you really think I''ll be alone?"

    She knew that she didn''t have to at least worry about this. Whether it was Grandfather Xiang or Mu Chenyan, they both loved her son as much as they loved Raelle. And knowing that even now, Grandfather Xiang was apanying her son made her heart rx a lot.

    "Mum, I was gonna tell you the truth tomorrow. I wasn''t gonna hide it forever."

    ''I know,'' Yue Yue smiled at her son trying tofort him.

    "I wanted toe clean to you myself and I did. And I''m sorry for lying to you either."

 Chapter 263 - Strong Women

    Fearing that she might be disturbing her son''s rest, Yue Yue disconnected the call soon. After that, she was left dreading on her own.

    Cold sweat drenched her back. Yes, she was scared. She was really scared! And this fear was not in her control at all. It was deep-rooted in her bones.

    She didn''t want to experience the loneliness that she felt when she was thrown out of her family. Although she just saw that Hyson was doing fine, she couldn''te over her inexplicable fear.

    She hurriedly gathered her wits and went to take a shower. Getting dressed, she started packing her bag in a hurry. She couldn''t think of anything else other than the fact that her son was in the hospital. She knew he didn''t like hospitals at all. If it wasn''t absolutely needed, he would never stay in a hospital.

    "Yue, are you up? I made breakfast!" came Mu Chenyan''s voice from outside the bedroom door. Not getting any reply, she pushed open the door, "Are you still sleep..." Her words stuck in her throat when she saw what Yue Yue was up to. "What''s going on? Our flight is tomorrow, why are you packing so soon?" Seeing the condition of Yue Yue, Mu Chenyan''s face lost the easygoing expression. She stepped up and held her hand to stop her. "What are you even trying to do here? Look, you''re not fixing anything."

    Yue looked down and realized that indeed, she didn''t manage to pack anything.

    Mu Chenyan took a paper towel and wiped her sweat saying, "Did you learn about Fai?"

    Yue stared at her with usation in her eyes, ''Even you knew about it and you didn''t tell me!''

    Mu Chenyan was indeed guilty of this and she didn''t try to shirk her responsibility at all. She ced her hands on her shoulders and pushed her to sit down. Then she poured her a cup of water and offered it to her saying, "Drink it first." Yue took the cup from her hand. "I''m sorry. I know I lied to you. But even you know that although I am a strong person, I have two deadly weaknesses. Either it''s our Elle or our Fai, either of them looks at me with their innocent eyes, I''m unable to refuse. I can offer even my life as long as they ask for it."

    Yue stared at Mu Chenyan and didn''t react. It was the truth she didn''t even have to listen about. It was way too obvious to anyone with eyes that Mu Chenyan''s whole life was captured within Raelle and Hyson.

    Somehow, this adventure-loving woman ended up making those two her favorite adventure.

    "Just yesterday, you told me that you are strong," continued Mu Chenyan. "You wanted Fai to share everything with you and have faith in you. But have you looked at yourself right now? Just knowing that he is in the hospital, you''ve lost your senses. This is what scares him. And I understand him very well. I''m not saying that you''re not strong and as a mother, you''d obviously worry about your son." She patted Yue''s head as she went on, "As a mother, you also need to have trust in your son. Just because we call them babies, doesn''t mean both of them are still babies. They can make decisions for their lives now. They are old enough. We can only guide them now."

    Yue wiped her tears that fell and said, ''I understand it all. But how am I supposed to control my heart?''

    "Just keep reminding your heart that Fai is your son. If his mother didn''t fall when the world turned its back on her. How can he fall so easily?" She pressed her hand and added, "We are leaving tomorrow and we won''t change that schedule. If you did that now, it''ll make Fai feel guilty for ruining your ns. So, let''s not do it. Besides, I really have to go to the sanitorium today. Just onest time."

    ''Just who is at the sanitorium?'' questioned Yue.

    Mu Chenyan sighed out, "My nephew is in the hospital. He got seriously injured during a mission."

    Something changed in Yue''s eyes, ''You mean Elle''s brother?''

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head, "Yeah. That''s him."

    ''Is he alright?''

    "Hmm... He needs a couple of months to recoverpletely but nothing to worry about. Being in Air Force, this much is really considered nothing. He managed to survive with all his limbs intact even when his jet crashed. That''s already one of the biggest miracles for him."

    ''Is that how you''re supposed to talk about your own nephew?''

    Mu Chenyan shrugged her shoulders, "Sis, I''ve seen worse. If you grow up in families like Mu or Xiang, even death in wars bes toomon. So, as I said, he is really lucky to survive this." Waving her hand, she went on, "Forget about that. You''re worried about Fai, look at this video I came across." She pulled out her phone from the back pocket of her pants and showed it to Yue.

    The same video of Hyson singing to a little girl had gone viral this very morning. Yue didn''t see her phone but Mu Chenyan had her eyes everywhere. And since Hyson looked healthy and happy in the video, she decided to use it to make Yue feel better.

    And it was no surprise that it even worked because Yue instantly started smiling at the sight of her son.

    Looking at her like that, Mu Chenyan felt like she understood Yue very well. She could understand her feelings as well. She was also scared when she learned about Hyson''s ident but she was reassured because of Raelle. Since Raelle was there, she didn''t think she needed to worry about Hyson.

    Both of these women were strong in their own ways but they both had their own weaknesses as well. Just like any mother, they also dreaded to see their kids in pain. But just like any mother, they couldn''t always control the circumstances as well.

    Especially in Mu Chenyan''s case, she believed that setbacks were necessary for anyone to grow up. So a little pain is always necessary for life.

 Chapter 264 - Daredevil

    "Cloe, didn''t I have a meeting with the President of Ran Industries after lunch?" asked Raelle as she scrolled through her scheduled meetings for the day. When she checked itst night, she certainly had the meeting with the President of Ran Industries and now, it was changed to the construction site visit.

    Cloe opened her mouth and lifted her finger to say, "Excuse me, please!" And then she covered her nose with a tissue and sneezed. After rubbing her nose with the tissue until it was red, she turned and faced Raelle again, "I''m sorry for showing you this unsightly behavior."

    Raelle looked out the window, "Spring is here."

    "Yeah," answered Cloe in a strained voice.

    "Your pollen allergy is kicking in," said Raelle.

    Cloe stared at her boss and wasn''t even surprised that Raelle even took note of her allergies. She was actually touched that her boss knew about her difficulties so well. Just as she often says, having Raelle as her boss was not her life''s biggest blessing and curse!

    "Take medicine for it," added Raelle.

    "I did take my prescribed medicine but it didn''t work. It''s my first spring in this country. Maybe it''s because of the environment but the allergy is quite severe this time."

    "I won''t offer you a day off," reminded Raelle.

    "I didn''t ask for it either," replied Cloe. Then she decided to answer Raelle''s earlier question, "The President Of Ran Industries called himself to apologize and asked me to postpone the meeting because he couldn''t make it to the meeting today."

    "Why?"

    "It seems someone in his family is ill," said Cloe. "Since you wouldn''t like to waste those two hours, I decided to push back the construction site visit. We have been holding it off for a while now."

    "Okay."

    Cloe put a file before Raelle and told her, "You asked for the details of MJ Entertainment''s acquisition. I have all of it here."

    Raelle read through it and her eyes paused on a certain name on this file, "This..."

    Cloe cleared her throat saying, "I made no mistake in this. Every detail is absolute truth. Also, this acquisition n had begun about four months ago but the higher-ups had been keeping it quiet all this while. Besides MJ Entertainment''s is only a middle-tierpany, not many people would pay attention even if the management changed hands. But now that it''s about to be a part of a big banner, a lot of people would pay more attention."

    Raelle''s fingers tapped the surface of the table as she thought about something, "It''s like this, I don''t have to bother myself with it."

    "That''s exactly what I thought," replied Cloe.

    Raelle pulled out a certain envelope from the mails that Cloe had given her in the morning and slid that envelope towards Cloe, "You mixed up your mail with mine. This has your name on it."

    Cloe raised her brow in surprise and seeing the envelope sheughed awkwardly, "Sorry about that."

    "You''re not gonna see what''s inside?"

    "I already know," answered Cloe. "It''s a wedding invitation."

    "Wedding invitation?" asked Raelle.

    "Yes, one of my secretaries is getting married. He gave me this invitation when I was bringing your mails to you and I ended up mixing it all up."

    Raelle stopped flipping her pen around her fingers and said, "Bring a gift from me with you."

    "I think he''d be happier if you attend his wedding ceremony," suggested Cloe.

    "I''m only offering you a bouquet from my yard, don''t try to y in my yard."

    Cloe chuckled at Raelle''s choice of words and said, "If you don''t want to, that''s alright. A gift from you will suffice, I believe."

    "You seem quite excited about this wedding?" questioned Raelle when she noticed the glimmer in Cloe''s eyes that had just been too dim because of her allergies kicking in again.

    "I am actually excited," answered Cloe. "It''s my first time to attend a wedding here. I''m quite new to the festivities of this country so I''m curious to see it all. I heard the weddings here are quite lively and colorful. Also, how can I miss the wedding feast."

    "So, you''re just going for the wedding feast?"

    "It''s not like I''m going to your wedding feast! You didn''t even invite me to your wedding!"

    "I didn''t hold a wedding ceremony to begin with," said Raelle matter-of-factly.

    "And that''s the only problem with your marriage," said Cloe. "I understand that you didn''t want to make a scene by holding a wedding ceremony but what about Master Xian? He is okay with this?"

    "Why don''t you ask him yourself?" suggested Raelle. "And let me know if you find the answer."

    Cloe narrowed her eyes at Raelle. "Then where is your husband? I''ll ask himm right now."

    "He isn''t around," replied Raelle. "You''ll have to wait for him toe back."

    "Where did he go?"

    "You''re my assistant, why are you curious about his schedule?"

    "I was just asking it casually," said Cloe. "For general knowledge."

    "Your general knowledge is already pretty pitiful. Not knowing about this matter won''t affect it much."

    Cloe made a face at Raelle and turned around to sneeze again, "I don''t know which is more annoying right now, my allergy or my boss!"

    "Me!" answered Raelle from behind startled Cloe.

    Cloe turned around to see Raelle who hade to stand behind her, "Chief..."

    "Don''t worry. I already know I''m more annoying. There is nothing to feel bad about."

    "You''re quite self-aware,"ughed Cloe in an awkward manner.

    "No, I''m well-informed," Raelle corrected her and even smiled at her. Seeing that smile scared Cloe for a minute. She was talking so casually with Raelle that she almost forgot what kind of a devil was sitting before her.

    She must have lost her mind to have this chit-chat with the devil. Buttely, this devil was quite easy to talk to as well. Or perhaps, Cloe had finally learned the way things worked with Raelle. Because she could easily talk about anything with Raelle now. And she didn''t even fear death while doing so. Either she had be a daredevil or she was really unafraid of death now.

 Chapter 265 - Snake

    Shaking her crazy thoughts out of her head, Cloe told her, "I''m also well-informed."

    "Oh?"

    Cloe nodded her head and searched something on her iPad before showing Hyson''s viral video to Raelle, "This was posted around midnight and instantly caused a stir among Hyson''s fans."

    Raelle also looked through this online drama with interest. She was the kind of person who never took interest in social media and stuff. So, it was no surprise that she didn''t know about this mess online. Besides, she never got herself involved with Hyson''s career and anything rted to his career, she''d keep her distance as much as possible.

    She suddenly read ament out loud, "Xiao Gege is so handsome that I want to lick my screen." She looked up at Cloe, "What does that mean?"

    Cloe bit the inside of her cheek to stop herself fromughing. Sometimes she really found Raelle too innocent. "Chief, it means she is admiring Hyson''s beauty."

    "But does she have to lick her screen? There must be so many tiny bacteria on the screen," said Raelle and Cloe could only purse her lips.

    As Raelle scrolled down, she again paused at something and read out loud, "Handsome Gege, I want to make babies with you."

    If Cloe had something in her mouth, she certainly would have spurted it out. Not just because of thement that Raelle read out loud but also because of how t her tone was while saying it. She was sure that the original writer of it, didn''t have such a serious and nk look on her face when she wrote thisment.

    Seeing how Raelle was lost in thought after reading thatment, Cloe asked, "Anything wrong, Chief?"

    "No, I''m just trying to calcte," said Raelle.

    "What?"

    "If Hyson really listened to all these fans, how many babies would he have?"

    Cloe coughed violently. There was really no filter on her boss''s mouth and mind!

    And then Raelle continued read severalments in session.

    "''Little brother is so cute. I want to pinch him!'' Well, he doesn''t like being pinched though."

    "''Little brother, I want to kidnap you!'' That''s crime."

    "''Xiao Gege, how can you be so handsome?'' Why are you asking him? His body is given by his mother, shouldn''t she be asking his mother that question?"

    "''His honey voice is making my ears reach a new climax!'' People are quite interesting on the inte."

    Cloe listened to all herments with interest. She was actually enjoying this session.

    "Cloe, are all people on inte like this?"

    Cloe shook her head, "Chief, those are called fans. More precisely, fan girls. They are a different kind of species online."

    "I feel like I''ve stepped into a whole new world," remarked Raelle.

    "Chief, you have never chased an idol before, right?"

    "I''ve only chased sess in life."

    "And that''s why you feel like this is all so strange and new. In fact, for fan girls, it''s quite normal. There are different kinds of fans. Mom fans, girlfriend fans, wife fans, sister fans and etc etc. Let''s say, Hyson''s fan group is dominated by mom fans and sister fans, that''s why what you just read is quite civil. It gets crazier on the inte."

    "No wonder I never got into this inte craze," said Raelle and moved on to see what this mess led to. Soon, something caught her attention, "How did the news about Hyson getting injured during shooting got out?"

    "Someone heard it from an insider," answered Cloe.

    "Where is the proof?"

    "Chief, you seem cute when you say that. But let me inform you detail that fans don''t often need proof to believe in something. Inte is just as dark as it''s cute, so are the people on it. It''s very easy to manipte fans emotions with a sentence or two. So, they don''t really need a proof to believe that Hyson was really injured during shooting."

    "That isn''t logical."

    "Not everyone is as rational as you are," answered Cloe.

    "Why do I think there is someone behind it?" questioned Raelle. "As if someone purposely incited Hyson''s fans and the book fans?"

    Cloe''s eyes shed with surprise even though she shouldn''t have doubted Raelle''s astute nature. She took a deep breath and answered, "Early in the morning, Elder Master Xiang called me to contact your public rtion team to suppress this matter rted to Hyson because he also thought someone was trying to take advantage of it. Your public rtions team is already working on it."

    When Raelle heard it, she nodded it calmly. It was no surprise that her grandfather woulde out to take action to protect Hyson as well.

    "Let me know the results of this. I''d like to see who ate the guts of snake."

    "Snake?" Cloe was confused. Didn''t usually people talk about eating guts of tiger or lion?

    "Yes, snake! Since this person is trying to bite from the dark," answered Raelle. She took a pause to analyze the situation and instruction, "In fact, tell the team to remove anything rted to Hyson''s injury. This video can stay up but if you see anything rted to his injury, remove it."

    "Yes, Chief."

    "You can leave now."

    "Alright!"

    As Cloe stepped out, Raelle moved towards the ss walls. She looked at the birds flying in the distance with interest, deep in thought. Then she went back to her table and took her phone to make a call to Hyson. Since her grandfather knew about it, Hyson must also know about this matter.

    And she also knew that he must be overthinking things as well. She was certain that he was overthinking when she looked at the post he made in the early hours of the day. He''d never do anything unnecessary like posting randomly online. He must be worried about dragging the movie crew into this.

    Idiot! Even now he was thinking about other people when his own health was not certain. These actions of his called for a beating!

 Chapter 266 - Deep As The Ocean

    Hyson was standing on the balcony, teasing his little birds when he received Raelle''s call. Before he could open his mouth to say anything, he heard her say, "I didn''t know you''re so in demand."

    Hyson put on a smug smile saying, "And now you know?"

    "Yeah. Quite a lot of babies are waiting for you to be their father," replied Raelle making Hyson choke on air.

    "What the...! What nonsense are you spouting?" he yelled.

    "Didn''t you see it online? ''Xiao Gege, let me carry your baby for you!'' ''Handsome Ge, let''s make a baby together.'' And..."

    "Stop!" eximed Hyson. "If I heard one more word like this from your mouth, I''m gonna lose my mind."

    "What a surprise though! Your mind is already lost. Isn''t that what you''ve been looking for all these years?" retorted Raelle.

    "Ellie! My mind is with me!"

    "Really? Check again, because I highly doubt it."

    "Did you call me for this? To infuriate me?"

    "Isn''t that my special talent?" came Raelle''s crisp response.

    "Don''t use your special talent on me then. I really am not in the mood for it." He took a pause and asked, "By the way, did you go online to readments today? Where did the sunrise from? Howe my best friend took the time to read online squabbles?"

    "If it didn''t concern you, I wouldn''t have spared it my attention," answered Raelle.

    "A. That really warmed my heart. But listen to my request, don''t ever do it again. Your brain is already the epitome of craziness, I don''t want you to learn weird things from people on the inte as well. Because at the end of the day, I''ll be the one to suffer from your attacks!"

    "Well, rest assured, I won''t learn anything from them. They use so many ngs online that half of the things went over my head."

    Hyson burst outughing, "I never thought there''de a day like this where even genius Raelle Xiang felt helpless before some ngs."

    "Are you challenging me?"

    Hyson''sughter died down immediately, "No way! I know my best friend is the best! No need to prove it. Gold never needs to prove its worth!" Hearing the ''tweet, tweet'' of the birds, he smiled to himself and started tweeting like his birds, "Tweet! Tweet!"

    "I knew you lost your mind," said Raelle.

    "I did not," argued Hyson. "I''m just giving my cotton and candy somepany."

    "Why? Want to be a bird now?"

    "I always wanted to be a bird. And I certainly would be as cute as my cotton and candy."

    "Stop daydreaming already," responded Raelle.

    "You chicken nugget! Keep your opinions to yourself!"

    "And what are you? Chicken wings?"

    Hyson seriously thought about it saying, "That''s not bad. Being chicken wings, I''d have wings to fly."

    "Idiot! Chicken can''t fly!" reminded Raelle.

    "One can always dream!"

    "I really don''t know why you dream so much?"

    Hyson smiled at her question, "Dreams are quite beautiful and they are also limitless. I don''t know what you find so attractive in reality that keeps you so realistic."

    "You," she answered straightforwardly making him frown in confusion. "Opa, Yanyan, Yue, B¨¤, and of course, my Xian."

    It took him a minute to realize that she was telling him what she found attractive in reality. It really amused him a lot.

    "As always, your talent to make one speechless is exemry."

    "Anyway, I called you to tell you not to overthink things," said Raelle after she was done annoying him. "Even if someone is string up trouble behind the scenes, we''ll take care of it. It won''t affect your image or your group members."

    "What about the movie crew?" asked Hyson. "Let''s face it. None of them are involved in my ident. It was all one person''s vendetta. I don''t want to drag the other down as well."

    "I told you to worry about yourself rather than worrying about others," said Raelle. "That one person with the vendetta was also a part of the movie crew."

    "Ellie, let''s not drag it."

    "So, what do you want me to do?"

    "Just let the movie continue shooting again. I won''t be a part of it. Okay? But I have seen the desperation in Miss Sora''s eyes. I know she takes her stories way too seriously. And I can see her hopes and dreams are associated with this movie, and I never want to take someone''s hope from them."

    "Perhaps, this is why you''re called the good boy."

    Hyson chuckled, "You and I both know, I am not that much of a good boy."

    "I don''t mind epting your request," said Raelle after thinking carefully.

    "And your condition for that is?" Hyson knew her well enough to be certain that she had a condition for epting it after days. He had been requesting the same thing since the time this whole agenda began and yet she just avoided this topic. But now, she was not only willing to talk, she was even willing to ept.

    "The condition is, Director Amiah Jade has to apologize to you in person!"

    "That..." Hyson didn''t know what to say to that. From what he had seen, he didn''t think that Director Amiah Jade was that easy to deal with. He knew how arrogant she was. So, he didn''t expect an apology from her. "Did she do something else to you?"

    "What else she did doesn''t really matter in your case." Raelle''s eyes focused outside the ss wall as she went on, "It''s a fact that she was indirectly the reason why you had to go through this ident. The least she can do is apologize. It''s not like I''m asking for her life."

    "Not everyone can ept their mistakes easily like you, Ellie. People are prideful."

    "You think I am not prideful?" questioned Raelle.

    "You?" repeated Hyson and raised his brow. "I really wonder what you are."

    "And here I thought, you knew me."

    "I do," said Hyson. "But you''re as deep as the ocean. It''s difficult to say what mysteries lie in your depth."

 Chapter 267 - Touched Her Heart

    Meanwhile, at the hospital entrance, Sora was trying to drag Amiah with her. She was familiar with Amiah''s stubbornness. But she didn''t expect her to keep this attitude when someone''s life was involved. Even when she learned the whole truth regarding Hyson''s ident, she still wasn''t willing toe with her to see him.

    "Sora!"

    "Stop calling my name!" Sora yelled back. "Today, you have to apany me at any cost!"

    "Why should I?" retorted Amiah.

    "Because Hyson''s ident involves both of us," said Sora. "It really is rude that you don''t even wanna check up on him."

    "He''s fine. So, why should I go see him?" Amiah shot back stubbornly.

    Sora wanted to p her face right now. "My brother told me that Hyson had internal bleeding which was found on time and they had to perform surgery to save his life. Do you still not realize how serious this could have been?" She softened her tone and added, "I know you''re upset because you met your fatherst night but you need to get your bloody shit together! You''re not a little girl now who is always throwing tantrums for no reason!"

    "As my best friend, you shouldn''t be talking to me like that," said Amiah.

    "Since I''m your best friend, I know you better than anyone. I know what you are. Or how you are. Now, stop making a scene ande with me."

    "You tricked me here," said Amiah. "You said we''re just going out. Then why did you bring me to the hospital to see that guy?"

    "If I had told you the truth, would you havee?" Even before Amiah could answer, she went on, "No, of course not! Your ego is everything to you after all."

    "Even you think that I''m egoist?"

    "That''s a fact, Mia!" Sora didn''t think it was gonna do any good to sugarcoat her words right now. She had always sugar-coated her words but what was the result? It only worsened Amiah''s tantrums. Sora held her hand and looked at her with gentle eyes, "I know you''re a nice girl. That''s why we are friends for so long but sometimes, you choose to overlook the truth. But you also have your days.When ites to your ego, you don''t wanna bow down before anyone."

    "You''ve already said all of this to me," reminded Amiah.

    "And yet you''re being like this?" questioned Sora.

    Amiah was exasperated, "I listened to you and I even went to look for my brother to apologize to him. Didn''t I tell you what happened? I was thrown out of my own house!"

    "Well, technically, that isn''t your house," Sora couldn''t help but say.? Amiah red at her unhappily, so she added, "Don''t look at me like that. It''s true. The house belongs to your father and since you don''t even want to call him father, what right do you have to im your right on that house?"

    Amiah''s eyes darkened at Sora''s words, "Fine! He wanted to throw me out. I get it. But what right that woman had? Do you have any idea how mad I am right now? I just learnedst night that the woman who almost ran me over with her car is actually my brother''s rude wife! This is the worst news of my life! She doesn''t deserve a person like my brother at all!"

    "You''re not your brother," reminded Sora. "Then how do you know that she is right for your brother or not? That''s his decision. It''s his life and she''d his wife. Why are you poking your nose into that?"

    "Why do I feel like you''re taking that woman''s side right now?" asked Amiah with suspicious eyes.

    Sora shook her head, "I''m just trying to think about everything rationally. You lose your thinking ability when you''re being stubborn, so I have to keep my rationality in check, or else, we''ll both be doomed!"

    "Do I need to remind you that she''s the reason we can''t proceed with the shooting?"

    Sora again shook her head, "You don''t need to remind me of that at all. I already understand it." She took a deep breath and added, "But that doesn''t matter right now. Haven''t you seen today''s agenda online? Even when someone tried to drag our production using Hyson''s ident, that boy immediately went online to clear it up. Even though we are somewhat responsible for his ident, he still cleared our names and imed that the crew had nothing to do with his injury at all. He is such a good person. I feel so ashamed to even face him and here you''re arguing with me."

    Amiah stayed quiet when she heard that. She of course learned about everything that''s been happening on the inte. She didn''t even know why she was so irked with this whole incident.

    Seeing her silently acquiescing, Sora took her hand and took the elevator to the floor where Hyson was. She had learned about Hyson''s condition through her brother and she even learned where he was staying since she wanted toe to see him again.

    Earlier, Hyson had sent all the bodyguards to have lunch so, at this time, there was no one guarding his door. Sora knocked on the door but since Hyson was on the balcony, he didn''t hear it at all. As Sora pushed open the door and stepped inside, they heard Hyson''s voiceing from the balcony.

    "Just let the movie continue shooting again. I won''t be a part of it. Okay? But I have seen the desperation in Miss Sora''s eyes. I know she takes her stories way too seriously. And I can see her hopes and dreams are associated with this movie, and I never want to take someone''s hope from them."

    Catching this part of the conversation, somethingplicated shed through Sora''s eyes and even Amiah''s gaze changed. They couldn''t understand the rest of the conversation but one thing was certain, Hyson was trying to request for their sake. And it deeply touched Sora''s heart.

 Chapter 268 - Childish

    "I should stop taking your lunchtime," said Hyson. "Enjoy your meal." He picked up the birdcage and turned to enter the room. Seeing both Sora and Amiah standing close to the door, he paused.

    "What happened?" asked Raelle.

    "Nothing," answered Hyson. "Call me when you have time. Or juste to see me tonight."

    "I will," replied Raelle before she hung up the call.

    Hyson put the cage down on the table in this luxurious hospital room and looked back at Sora and Amiah with an inquisitive look in his eyes.

    "I knocked beforeing inside," Sora immediately told him. "And we just came in. We weren''t trying to eavesdrop on your conversation."

    Hyson waved his hand saying, "It doesn''t matter. Please, have a seat."

    "Thanks," said Sora and went to sit down. But suddenly, stood up and extended the fruit basket she had been carrying towards him. "This is for you."

    Hyson looked at the fruits in distaste. He had been eating these fruits since he was allowed to eat something light. He had grown bored of these fruits. Except for flowers and fruit baskets, can''t people bring anything else to a patient? Be creative!

    But she still took the fruit basket with a sweet smile on his face. "Thank you so much... For this and also for taking out time toe and see me here."

    "That we should do," said Sora.

    On the other hand, Amiah was oddly quiet, as her eyes were glued to the birds in the cage. Noticing how distracted she was, Sora nudged her with her elbow.

    Amiah finally moved her eyes and asked, "How are you feeling now?"

    Hyson raised his brow unobtrusively at her before replying, "I''m recovering well. There is nothing to worry about."

    Amiah was dazzled by that smile on his face at this moment. Even with just one look at him, one could tell that he was sick. But that brightness in his eyes overshadowed everything. And now that smile of his... It was enough to enthrall anyone.

    That positive aura around him was glowing like a golden light that made one feel captivated.

    Sora cleared her throat and told him, "About the matter online... I feel like someone is pulling strings behind the scenes to make it into a big issue but trust me, none of us is involved in this. It''s true that we''ll be the one to benefit from this online heat but we aren''t the one who started it."

    Hyson shook his head at her, "You don''t need to exin anything to me. I also think you didn''t do it at all."

    "You trust us?" asked Sora in surprise.

    "No," answered Hyson honestly. "But you don''t look like a schemer either." He turned his eyes towards Amiah as he added, "You both don''t look like schemers."

    Both Sora and Amiah were surprised at how honestly he said what was on his mind. All of them went silent for a while.

    "Are those your birds?" asked Amiah.

    Hyson looked at his birds and hummed in response, "Hmm... They are mine for now."

    "For now?"

    "I can''t keep a bird from flying forever," he answered. "Soon, they''ll go back to their family."

    Neither of the girls expected to hear that kind of answer from him. Suddenly, no one knew what came over Amiah that she said, "I''m sorry for what happened with you and I''m also sorry for the part I unintentionally yed in it. Although I did hold some prejudice against you, I could see you working hard to improve and it was enough for me to change my attitude. I didn''t expect someone would take advantage of my attitude towards you and y dirty."

    For a moment, Hyson didn''t know how to respond to that. He didn''t expect Amiah Jade to apologize to him. This came as a surprise to him or more of as a shock. He really had no words to say to her. And seeing how Sora was also looking at her best friend skeptically, he was certain that Sora didn''t force Amiah to apologize. In fact, from what he understood, if someone would force her to do something, Amiah was most likely not to do that exact same thing.

    He cleared his throat and said, "I know you didn''t mean it." He took a pause and went on, "Your movie will start shooting again soon. All the losses that you incurred during this time, I''ll pay for it as well. So, don''t worry about that as well. And since I won''t be ying the role of Yang Anyu, you don''t have to worry about me at all."

    Sora was disappointed to hear that he won''t be ying the role. She was not even feeling happy to hear that her dream of bringing her characters to life could be fulfilled now.

    "Didn''t you tell me, you''re no quitter?" questioned Amiah.

    Hyson looked at her, "I am not."

    "Then why? Just my prejudice is enough to make you quit it?"

    Hyson smiled at her, "You still want me to continue?"

    "Yes, why not?"

    Hyson''s eyes narrowed as he told her, "I don''t think you like me."

    "My likes and dislikes are my personal matter," answered Amiah. "It doesn''t concern my work."

    Hyson''s shed with an inexplicable emotion before he said, "Let''s see about that then."

    Both Sora and Amiah didn''t n to stay for long. They talked for ten more minutes and decided to leave. But before leaving, Amiah stepped close to Hyson''s bed and questioned, "I have a question for you."

    "What is it?"

    "What is your rtionship with Raelle Xiang?" she asked.

    "And why are you curious about it?"

    Amiah''s face hardened, "Because she is my brother''s wife and I need to know what kind of rtionship she has with you. I''d not like anyone to hurt my brother. No matter who that person is."

    Hyson sighed out, "Defining my rtionship with her would be difficult. It''d be quite impossible for you to understand as well. But in easier words, she is my family. Anything else?"

    "No, that''d do for now," she said and turned to leave.

    Hyson smiled at her retreated back, "She''s quite... Childish."

    And thatdies and gentlemen were Hyson''s evaluation of Amiah Jade. ''Childish'' That''s it! He summed it all up in one word. And somehow it perfectly defined Amiah Jade.

 Chapter 269 - Kept Man

    When Amiah and Sora stepped out of the hospital room, they were surprised to see the bodyguards who hadn''t been there when they arrived. However, more than that Sora''s mind was still stuck on Amiah''s apology to Hyson.

    It wasn''t every day that Amiah would ept her mistake and would even apologize to the other person at her own discretion. Although she did want her to apologize to Hyson for this incident, she didn''t bring it up to her since she already knew about Amiah''s personality.

    Who knew that Amiah would do it on her? It really took her by surprise.

    "Mia..." she called her softly in an uncertain tone.

    Amiah turned her head towards Sora and asked, "What is it?"

    "Why did you suddenly think of apologizing to Hyson?" Sora didn''t beat around the bush. Since she needed an answer, she got to it straightforwardly.

    Amiah was silent for a minute before she shrugged her shoulders nonchntly, "I just did."

    Sora frowned when she heard that answer but she didn''t think of asking again. It was obvious that Amiah didn''t want to exin anything to her and neither did she want to talk about it. Therefore, Sora decided to just let it be. It was enough that Amiah apologized to Hyson.

    As for Amiah, it wasn''t that she didn''t want to answer Sora. It was just that she had no answer for her right now. She was also uncertain why she suddenly thought about apologizing to Hyson. Seeing how bright Hyson''s eyes were and the sincerity in his smile when he looked at them, she was suddenly reminded of her mother.

    Hyson had the same positive outlook as she could recall about her mother. Hyson''s eyes were so pure that she found herself unable to extract herself from him. His bright and lively personality was certainly like her mother. And remembering her mother, she just blurted out that apology. She felt like it was something her mother would have wanted her to do.

    *Ding!*

    The elevator door before them opened and seeing the person inside the elevator, she paused. However, even though Shui Koshing had seen her outside the elevator, he didn''t say anything and stepped aside to walk away from her without even sparing her a second nce.

    Sora tugged at Amiah''s sleeve when she watched Shui Koshing leaving, "Isn''t that your father?"

    Amiah pulled Sora inside the elevator saying, "It doesn''t matter. Let''s leave now."

    Sora didn''t say anything and stood beside her silently.

    Meanwhile, Shui Koshing reached Hyson''s room and knocked before entering. Since he learned about Hyson''s ident, he had been meaning toe to see him. But since he was really tiredst night, he woke upte. Then after having a meal, he dealt with things that needed his attention and came to the hospital straight after.

    "Uncle Shing!" Hyson waved his hand seeing Shui Koshing excitedly. He needed someone to talk to. It didn''t matter who it was, so he was really happy that someone came to see him again.

    Today, Grandfather Xiang happened to be busy that''s why he got stuck here all alone.

    "Yue Fai," Shui Koshing came to his side. "How are you feeling? I only learned about your identst night. How are you now?"

    Hyson waved his hand nonchntly, "I''m absolutely fine. No need to take any stress!" He beckoned Shui Koshing toe closer and whispered, "Uncle Shing, did you see your daughter just now?"

    Shui Koshing wasn''t surprised that Hyson knew about Amiah as well and he nodded in reply.

    "She was just here to see me," told Hyson like it was some secret. "And she thinks I''m your daughter-inw''s kept man."

    Shui Koshing''s eyes widened. "What?"

    Hyson nodded his head seriously, "She just asked me what kind of rtionship I have with Raelle Xiang. Because she is worried about her brother. What else does that mean? It means she is suspicious of my rtionship with Ellie. Really, your daughter is imaginative."

    Shui Koshing pressed his lips together not knowing what to say to Hyson. He thought about it a little before saying, "She must have misunderstood because of how much Raelle cares about you."

    Hyson proudly puffed up his chest, "Just because my best friend cares about me doesn''t mean one should misunderstand it so easily. I agree that normal best friends don''t what Ellie does for me. But then again, we aren''t normal best friends either." Heughed out, "Not everyone can have Raelle Xiang as their best friend. There is only one Raelle Xiang and I''ve long snatched her away."

    Shui Koshingughed in amusement at Hyson''s antics, "Feeling quite proud, eh?"

    "My best friend is my pride," said Hyson without any hesitation. "It can never change."

    Shui Koshing rubbed his head gently saying, "You really aren''t like your mother."

    Hyson looked at him inquisitively, "Really?"

    "Really," answered Shui Koshing in a certain manner. "Your mother was a very restrained person. She even had difficulty expressing her feelings."

    "She was a quiet person?" questioned Hyson curiously.

    "No way," Shui Koshing immediately denied that statement. "She was a chatterbox but she would only let her real self with people she wasfortable with. Since she came from a family where manners were quite valued, she always had to do her best to appeardylike." Seeing how interested Hyson seemed listening to him, he asked, "You look quite interested to know about your mother."

    "I am," Hyson immediately epted. "My mum doesn''t talk about herself. And I have never met a person who knew my mother before I was born, so there wasn''t anyone to tell me stories about my mother. I have always been curious to know what she was like."

    Shui Koshing felt a sudden pang in his heart when he heard that from Hyson. Although Hyson didn''t let it show, he could tell that Hyson was upset when talked about it. He never got to hear anything about his own mother because there was no one to tell him anything.

 Chapter 270 - Her Voice

    "How about I tell you all about your mother?" suggested Shui Koshing.

    "Really?" Hyson''s eyes sparkled with intense excitement.

    "Yes, really," answered Shui Koshing. "I''ll tell you anything you want to know. I have known her for a long time actually."

    "Then did you hear my mum sing?" asked Hyson.

    Shui Koshing nodded his head, "I have. She had a beautiful voice. One that could enchant anyone." He touched Hyson''s nose as he added, "Just like you."

    Hyson was happy to hear that. He was really happy actually.

    Shui Koshing suddenly recalled something, "Actually, I think I have a recording of her singing."

    "What?" Hyson''s heart beat fast when he heard that. One couldn''t possibly understand what crazy emotions he was going through. He had never heard his mother''s voice. And when he was a kid, of course, he knew his mother was different than others but he still had a yearning to hear his mother''s voice. Even if he couldn''t hear her calling him, ''Yue Fai'' he''d be content with just hearing her voice. Just for once.

    Shui Koshing contemted a little before nodding, "I remember she sang at Xian''s first birthday because my wife insisted. And we always recorded Xian''s birthday parties. So, I''m sure there is a recording somewhere."

    "Where?" asked Hyson immediately. "Where is it?"

    Shui Koshing''s heart hurt a little seeing him like that. Although he hadn''t known Hyson for long, he still felt close to him because he was Yue''s only son. He didn''t want to disappoint him at all.

    "It must be somewhere in the storeroom. After I go back home today, I''ll look for it. Okay?"

    Hyson was bursting in excitement and grinned happily, "Okay. I''ll wait. I can wait for this much. I definitely can do it."

    Shui Koshing ced his hand on Hyson''s head and rubbed it gently. "Aren''t you curious about your mom''s family?"

    Hyson''s brows furrowed up slightly, "Do I have to be curious about people who aren''t in my mom''s life?"

    Shui Koshing looked into his eyes and changed his question, "Then what about your family?" Hyson raised his brow inquisitively at him. "I mean, don''t you want to know anything about your father?"

    Hyson''s brows rxed as he shook his head, "If he isn''t in my mom''s life, it means he isn''t needed in her life. If he isn''t needed in her life, he is even less needed in mine."

    "I didn''t think you''d be this disinterested,"mented Shui Koshing. "But it''s better I guess. It''splicated already."

    Hyson didn''t know what he was saying and neither was he curious. He was just as disinterested in his father as Raelle was in her parents.

    "Oh, you said my mum sang for Xian Ge''s birthday?" Suddenly Hyson recalled what he just had missed out on.

    "Yeah."

    "That means mum watched Xian Ge growing up?"

    Shui Koshing nodded his head, "No only that. She was also there when he was born. In fact, when Shui Sying was born, my wife didn''t have enough time for Xian, so Yue would always help her out. It was to the point that Xian didn''t want to leave Yue''s side. It really made my wife envy Yue for the first time."

    "No wonder my mum had an instant connection with Xian Ge," said Hyson. And also recalled how obsessed he had been with Master Xian before as well. He had always admired him and held him high. But now that he thought about it, it felt like he got that from his mother as well.

    "She always had a connection with kids," said Shui Koshing. "Even Xiao Jun would not leave her side. More than his mother, he loved to hang around her. Both the little boys hugged one of her legs and made her drag them around. It was really a sight."

    "Xiao Jun?" repeated Hyson.

    Shui Koshing suddenly realized he said he shouldn''t have. But then again, he couldn''t hide it either.

    "He was wife''s nephew," said Shui Koshing. "Also, Xian''s ymate when he was young."

    Hyson wasn''t an idiot either. If this Xiao Jun was rted to Shui Koshing''s wife that meant, he was somehow rted to his own mother as well. Otherwise, Shui Koshing wouldn''t have to think about it before speaking. However, that was all he thought and didn''t bother wasting his brain cells on investigating it further. His curiosity was only limited to people he cared about.

    "After mum met youst time, she told me about your wife," told Hyson. "She said, Qian Yin was her dearest sister. A sister who was dear to her more than anyone else. She also cried a lot since she learned about her death. And how she was acting, I could tell that your wife must have been really important to her."

    "Yin also cared a lot about Yue. She also cried so much when she learned about Yue''s disappearance. Yue left didn''t tell anyone anything. And it worried her so much that she fell ill. She even tried to look for her but things weren''t as advanced back then as they are now. We couldn''t find her and it always left a burden on Yin''s heart till her death."

    "Do you me my mum for that?"

    Shui Koshing shook his head, "Maybe once I did a little bit seeing how my Yin missed her so much. But now seeing Yue again, I couldn''t me her at all."

    "That''s good," said Hyson. "I would have been really mad if you med my mum for anything."

    Shui Koshing chuckled at him, "So possessive?"

    "I am of course, really possessive about my mum," answered Hyson. "I want the best for her in this world. I love her smile the most. Especially when I''m the reason behind that smile of hers."

    Shui Koshing was a little surprised to hear that, "You really love your mother."

    "That''s for sure," said Hyson. He never hid his love for his mother. Perhaps, other boys would have difficulty expressing their feelings for their parents but Hyson wasn''t one of them.

 Chapter 271 - Videotapes

    Even though Shui Xian wasn''t around, Raelle still didn''t stayte at the office like she used to do before getting married. Knowing that B¨¤ had no one to keep himpany, she wanted to leave the office right on time.

    "Chief, I just sent you a mail, did you see it?" Cloe came running out of her office when she saw Raelle was leaving.

    Raelle looked at her wristwatch and said, "It''s time to get off work. I''ll see it tomorrow."

    "But it''s urgent," stressed Cloe. "I need your approval to use the material in tomorrow''s board meeting."

    "Then I''ll see it at night if I had spare time," answered Raelle. "For now, it is time to clock out!"

    "Chief, why the hurry? It''s not like your husband is waiting for you at home. He isn''t even in the city."

    Raelle gave her a nk look, "But my B¨¤ is waiting for me at home." Cloe was stunned for a minute while Raelle went on, "You should go home as well. I''ll check everything at home and send you the instructions for the follow-up. For now, go home and rest."

    Cloe''s brows quirked up at Raelle''s words. She was left staring at Raelle while thetter left keeping her own pace. She suddenly shook her head and muttered, "So, people do change." But then she added, "Or perhaps they don''t change at all. After all, whether it was before or now, for Chief, the family had always been above work. The only difference is, the family before included her grandfather and Miss Mu but now that family includes Master Xian and his father."

    Cloe thought she shouldn''t be surprised but she actually was.

    Meanwhile, when Raelle arrived back home in the evening, she was informed that Shui Koshing had been in the storeroom since the time he came back from the hospital. Raelle followed the directions and reached the storeroom. She could see Shui Koshing busy inside the storeroom. He seemed to be looking for something.

    This storeroom was an abandoned room filled with dust or cobwebs. Instead, it was a neatly arranged space. Everything was sparkly clean which indicated that this ce hadn''t been abandoned. She looked at the rows of old stuff here curiously.

    "Oh, Raelle, when did youe?" Shui Koshing finally noticed Raelle''s presence. "Sorry, I didn''t even notice."

    "That''s okay," replied Raelle. "But B¨¤, what are you looking for?"

    Shui Koshing touched his face with a nostalgic smile, "Originally, I came here to look for some videotapes but I got distracted by the memories in this room."

    "This room has memories?" inquired Raelle seemingly quite interested in the topic.

    Shui Koshing nodded his head, "Yes, this room is like a cave of memories. Every single thing reminds me of a special moment." He picked up a drawing pad which looked quite old with yellowed pages and showed it to her, "See, these are the rings my wife designed for our wedding. This is also the very first thing she ever designed."

    Raelle took the drawing pad from his hand, she could recall Shui Xian talking about his parents'' wedding rings. And since Shui Xian regretted that he never took back his mother''s ring from his ex-wife, she was even more interested in seeing what it looked like.

    Originally, Shui Koshing hade to look for the videotapes for Hyson. Just recalling the anticipation and yearning in Hyson''s eyes, he felt his heart churning. And that''s why, right after getting back home, he had decided to dig through these old things. However, since he had always locked these memories in this room, now that he opened the door to these memories once again, he found it quite difficult to extract himself from all of them.

    Each memory in this room was dear to him. And that''s why he ended up forgetting the original purpose of opening the door which led to these memories.

    "What videotapes are you looking for?" asked Raelle when she noticed that Shui Koshing seemed to be lost in thoughts. "I''ll help you in looking."

    "Oh, it''s the recordings of Xian''s birthdays," answered Shui Koshing. "His mom always organized grand birthday parties for her dear son. So, even till the age of 18, all of Xian''s birthday''s had been recorded on camera."

    "Oh?" This seemed to be something new to Raelle who never even held a birthday party of her much less recording it. She only cut the cake since Yanyan would bake it herself for her every year. There were even hardly even any photos from her birthdays since she didn''t like taking photos.

    In fact, no one in the Xiang Family liked taking photos. They only believed in living in the moment. If one tried to relive a moment through things like photos it only meant they weren''t satisfied with the moment they were living in.

    Suddenly, Raelle thought of something and inquired, "B¨¤, does that mean how Xian grew up over the years had all been recorded in those videotapes?"

    "Yes," answered Shui Koshing.

    "Let me help you then," offered Raelle and started looking through the stuff. "B¨¤, why did you suddenly thought of looking for those recordings?"

    "Oh, that''s because of Yue Fai," replied Shui Koshing without hiding anything from her. He even detailed to her why he was searching so desperately for those videotapes.

    Raelle paused for a second when she learned that it was all for Hyson who wanted to hear his mother''s voice. This was nothing new to her. Even though Hyson always kept his deepest wishes to himself, he would never keep them from Raelle. So, she was like the worm in his stomach, who actually knew everything about him.

    She also knew how happy he''d be to see those recordings of his mother. And she didn''t mind expending some effort to fulfill his wish. For once, it was in her hand to make his wish true.

    Although she couldn''t make Yue talk again, she could at least help in looking for those videotapes.

 Chapter 272 - Keep The Dreams Alive

    For the next hour, both Shui Koshing and Raelle looked through every nook and cranny of the room but wasn''t able to find any videotapes at all. This really depressed Shui Koshing. He could recall that when he left the Xiang Manor in Taileng, he had packed all the videotapes in a cardboard box. But now he couldn''t find anything. Where did it all go?

    "No way!" he suddenly gasped. "Don''t tell me Xian burned it all with his stuff."

    Raelle looked at him and questioned, "What do you mean B¨¤?"

    Shui Koshing''s lips parted but he couldn''t bring himself to tell her the details. He remembered how Shui Xian had burned everything rted to his ex-wife. But he couldn''t tell that to Raelle. Not that he didn''t want to but he just didn''t want to bring up the name of Shui Xian''s ex-wife.

    He waved his hand offhandedly saying, "Xian burned all of his useless stuff when we left Taileng. I''m worried if the box of videotapes was one of those things he burned."

    "Well, you don''t know that for certain," said Raelle. "It''s just your assumption for now. Perhaps, Xian ced those videotapes somewhere else. Don''t stress yourself over it."

    Shui Koshing felt a little better with herforting words even though in Raelle''s opinion, she was merely looking at the situation objectively since she never learned to jump to conclusions unless there was enough evidence. And currently, the evidence wasn''t enough toe to a conclusion that Xian actually burned the videotapes.

    "But I''m feeling really guilty," said Shui Koshing. "I''m the one who lit up the me of hope in Yue Fai''s heart and now, if I didn''t find the videotapes, he''d be really disappointed."

    "You don''t have to worry about Hyson either," said Raelle. "He''ll be disappointed but he won''t me you at all for it." Then she took out her phone and texted Shui Xian to inquire whether he knew anything about the videotapes. Surprisingly, Shui Xian''s reply came instantly and Raelle read it out to Shui Koshing, "Xian says he has kept them all at a safe ce. When he''lle back, he''ll take them out for you."

    Shui Koshing''s heart eased up when he learned this. He''d feel really bad if he failed to aplish this task. And just imagining Hyson''s downhearted expressions scared him a lot.

    Now, that he was reassured, he happily took out a photo album and started showing it to Raelle. "Look at your husband crying over a broken toy." Raelle also looked at the photo of a young Xian sitting on the grass crying with a broken toy in his hand. Her expression didn''t change but if one noticed her eyes, they''d be able to see that she was quite absorbed in this photo.

    Shui Koshing happily showed her several photos from Shui Xian''s childhood and even found a wedding album. He was surprised to see it, "Huh? What is this doing here? I always keep our wedding albums in my bedroom, how did this onee here?" He opened it and looked through it. Soon, he realized that this album only contained photos of the guests. That''s why he must have left it here. "Raelle, guess who is this?"

    Raelle looked at the young girl d in a qipao. She looked elegant and beautiful. The way she smiled could enchant anyone easily. However, even though she looked really young, Raelle could recognize her easily.

    "That''s Yue," she answered and Shui Koshing smiled widely.

    "That''s right!" agreed Shui Koshing. "She was the maid of honor back then. She even read out a speech she had spent months writing for Qian Yin. It was my first time seeing her speaking so confidently in front of so many people. In fact, it was really surprising for anyone who was already familiar with her."

    "Why?" asked Raelle.

    "Because Yue was known as a gentle flower. She was a quiet and shy girl. Also, anti-social. But it was nothing like that in reality. She just avoided those socializing activities."

    "She didn''t like meeting people?"

    Shui Koshing shook his head at her. It was nothing like that. How was he supposed to tell her that the reason why Yue had closed off herself was that whenever she joined a party, her sister and her clique would cause trouble for her everywhere. With time, she was fed up with it all and avoided those parties and activities altogether. That''s why only people close to her knew how many charms Yue had including her chatterbox personality.

    "Let me tell you a secret," Shui Koshing spoke in a soft voice almost like a whisper. "Yue was the one who made my wife''s wedding dress for her. With her own hands. She spent three months working on her dress. All the embroidery and stitching, everything was done by herself."

    "It seems she was always talented," said Raelle not surprised by this news.

    "That''s for sure,'''' agreed Shui Koshing. "But it''s a secret because no one else knows who made that dress. Severaldies tried to probe Yin about the designer''s details but Yin chose to keep her lips sealed." He took a pause and added, "If you want, I''ll show you the dress."

    "You''re still keeping it?"

    "I am," said Shui Koshing. "Yin and crazy ideas. She wanted to pass down the wedding dress as a family heirloom. I don''t even know where she came up with that."

    "Even though you found her idea crazy, you''re still trying to achieve what she wished for," Raelle pointed out.

    Shui Koshing smiled sheepishly, "I can''t help it. The least I can do in her absence is to keep her dreams alive. Even if she is no longer here to see those dreamse true."

    "Don''t you think you''re keeping a lot of random stuff here?" asked Raelle as she swept her eyes around the room. She pointed in a corner saying, "What''s the point of keeping that?"

    When Shui Koshing looked at what she was pointing at, his eyes softened.

 Chapter 273 - Luck

    "That..." Shui Koshing walked over to the corner and picked up a basketball that had been ced on a box. The basketball clearly was quite old and there were several marks of time left on its surface. But Shui Koshing knew how special it was. "This is Xian''s favorite basketball. Or should I call it the lucky one?"

    "The lucky one?" repeated Raelle as she tilted her head slightly with her eyes blinking reflecting the innocence of her heart.

    "Yes, the lucky one," echoed Shui Koshing. He turned the basketball around and showed it to Raelle. There seemed to be something written on the basketball but with time, it had faded a lot. It was difficult to make out what was written on it.

    "I can''t read it," said Raelle.

    "It says, ''My son is a champion.''" told Shui Koshing to her. "When Xian was young, although he loved basketball, he couldn''t win. He was shorter than other boys and it put him at an even greater disadvantage. He was so upset about it that heined to his mother repeatedly. Then on his next match, this was the basketball that his mother gave him. She wrote this and said, ''Whenever you look at this in future, remember, only you''re the champion for mom.'' Perhaps, her trust in him worked like magic and that day, Xian won the match. He was over the moon."

    "So, it''s like that."

    Shui Koshing nodded his head, "Indeed, it''s like that. Later, this became Xian''s lucky basketball. He always took it with him on his important days."

    "Isn''t that superstitious?" asked Raelle. "Of course, he only won because his failure cornered him to the point where he only had two choices, either he gave up or he broke through his limits. And I believe he chose thetter and that''s why he won."

    Shui Koshing chuckled at her logical words and said, "What you said is true. But he was only 9 back then. He couldn''t understand that. It only mattered to him that this basketball was his lucky charm." Thinking of something, he added, "In fact, since Koi fishes are believed to bring good luck, Xian even raised Koi fishes."

    Honestly speaking, it was difficult for someone like Raelle to feel any connection with this discussion since she was a strong believer that everything in life had a logical reason behind it. ims that can''t be proven with facts can''t possibly be true. But she''d rarely admonish others'' beliefs in such things as well. It didn''t concern her anyway.

    "Well, it''s good that doesn''t believe in such things anymore," stated Raelle.

    "I don''t know whether he believes in such things anymore or not," began Shui Koshing. "But I certainly do." He looked at her with a gentle gaze as he went on, "I believe that you are the one who carried luck into this family all over again. And I couldn''t be more thankful for that."

    "I?" questioned Raelle in an odd manner but Shui Koshing didn''t notice it.

    "Yes, you," he answered. "I feel like everything has started to change with your presence. It means you are our little lucky charm."

    Raelle didn''t show any change on her face to him but she continued to look at him carefully as if trying to understand something. However, no matter how hard she tried, she couldn''t understand it for some reason.

    "I''ll join you for dinner in a while," said Raelle and left the storeroom. She went upstairs to her bedroom and sat down on a chair.

    Usually, she''d never recall something from her past. However, Shui Koshing''s words really made something rey in her mind. Those voices were still very clear in her head. As if she just heard those voices.

    ~~~

    ''Poor child! Even though her parents are alive, she has to grow up like an orphan!''

    ''What poor child? She is the bringer of misfortune for everyone!''

    ''Exactly! A child strengthens the connection between parents and makes it stronger. What did she do? She even made her parents separate on the day she was born!''

    ''Let''s not forget that just two days after her birth, Madam Xiang lost her life. Such bad luck she is to the Xiang family!''

    ''Even Elder Xiang is really sick since she is born. Who knows if she''ll eat his life as well. I don''t even want to step close to her.''

    ''Keep your voices down! What if Miss Mu heard you all? Don''t you know how much she values this girl?''

    ''Hmph! I don''t even know what''s so good about her. If I had an unlucky child her, I''d have long thrown her away!''

    ''Isn''t that why her parents abandoned her as well? They also wanted to save themselves from this bad luck.''

    ''She is nothing but the worst nightmare for the Xiang family.''

    ~~~

    It had been such a long time since shest heard someone calling her bad luck. And yet, she could recall it all in detail. Even their malicious and hostile eyes were engraved in the part of her memory that she never touched before.

    Suddenly, when Shui Koshing said she was the good luck of this family, her brain instinctively shed back to the past. It seemed her brain was reminding her of all that she never bothered to think about.

    It wasn''t that she ever ran from her past but she didn''t actively remember it as well. She believed in look forward. How could she look back?

    She shook her head to shake off these thoughts from her head and stood up to change clothes. As she stared at her reflection in the mirror, she reminded herself, "There is no such thing as bad luck or good luck."

    She didn''t need this reminder but she still reminded herself. Luck had never been a part of her life because she got where she was through her own hard work. Luck yed no role in her life. And she''d never let something like ''luck'' take the credit for her achievements.

    Since she was called a nightmare, she had proven herself to be the worst nightmare for her business rivals.

 Chapter 274 - The Best Way To Waste Time

    Later that night, the dinner was as usual. Shui Koshing didn''t find anything odd about Raelle since there was no change on her face and she talked just as much as she usually would. After dinner, Shui Koshing received a call, so he had to drop the idea of spending time with his daughter-inw.

    As for Raelle, she went back to her room and turned on herptop to check the email that Cloe had sent her. She pointed out the changes that needed to be done in the material and got immersed in work.

    That''s when Shui Xian''s video call came after the whole day. Raelle looked at his damp hair asked, "Did you just take a shower? Why didn''t you dry your hair? What if you catch a cold?"

    As if on cue, Shui Xian ended up sneezing and then looked at her with a silly smile on his face. "The weather here is like a chameleon. It changes every minute. It was so hot in the day and now, it suddenly began to rain while I wasing to the hotel. And since I didn''t expect this, I ended up getting drenched."

    "Then drink some hot soup. No, first dry your hair. Then drink some hot soup and go to bed."

    "Already?" questioned Shui Xian. "But I have to talk to my wife."

    "Hubby, stop wasting time. What if your condition worsens? Wouldn''t it dy your work?" said Raelle.

    "Babes, I''m not wasting time. I''m doing the best thing I can do with my time," he grinned at her foolishly and took a dramatic pause before adding, "Talking to my wife! That''s definitely the best way to use my time!"

    Raelle was silent for a minute before she said, "If you dyed your work because of your sickness, wouldn''t it also dy your return?"

    Shui Xian instantly got serious as he picked up his phone and asked his assistant to bring him soup to make sure that he doesn''t catch a cold. He even took out the hairdryer and started drying his hair immediately. Raelle continued to type on herptop while the iPad on her side disyed the image of Shui Xian drying his hair. Considering that the noise of the hairdryer would be irritating to his wife, Shui Xian had considerately put the call on mute.

    However, he didn''t disconnect the call at all.

    Her phone rang at this time and seeing Cloe''s name on the screen, she put it on speaker and said, "I''m almost done reviewing the documents. Can''t you wait for a while?"

    "Chief, I didn''t call you for that," said Cloe.

    "Then?"

    "It''s about Hyson," informed Cloe.

    Raelle''s fingers on the keyboard stopped working as she asked, "What about Hyson?"

    "The PR department has submitted their investigation to Elder Xiang," told Cloe. "ording to their investigation, there is a neer actor who recently gained fame through an online drama, that neer bought the water army to guide the audience in the direction which would be unfavorable for Hyson."

    "What is a water army?" asked Raelle interrupting Cloe''s report.

    Cloe almost rolled her eyes at her boss. She knew already that Raelle would ask this question. Her genius boss was actually quite illiterate when it came to inte ng.

    "Water army refers to trolls who are paid to promote or criticize an individual online," answered Cloe keeping her professional ethics in check. She shouldn''tugh at her boss for not knowing something. If anything, she actually felt gratified to know that even Raelle Xiang was only a human who was unfamiliar with something. Otherwise, with Raelle''s diverse and deep knowledge, she always felt like a stupid person before her.

    "Got it," answered Raelle. "Now, you can continue."

    "Thank you," said Cloe. "So as I was saying... This neer tried to use Hyson''s poprity to first fan the mes and then he so thoughtfully started ckening Hyson."

    "Why does he achieve from it all?" inquired Raelle.

    "He was the first choice for the role that Hyson got selected for," answered Cloe. "If it hadn''t been that Miss Sora insisted on working with Hyson, he''d have been the part of the crew."

    "But he didn''t get selected," said Raelle. "And if he didn''t get selected, how did he learn that he was the first choice for this role?"

    "There is always a ck hole, Chief," reminded Cloe. "It isn''t that difficult to find out. The point is, he wanted revenge. And he thought if he instigated the book fans, they''ll tear apart Hyson online, andter, he''d be able to guide the fans to put his name out there. Since he or anyone else in the circle is unaware of the fact that the production has been shut down already."

    "What did Opa say?" she asked. After all, she wasn''t the one directing her team for this incident. Her grandfather was behind it. She''d like to see how he handle it.

    "Elder Xiang has asked the team to keep an eye on this neer," said Cloe.

    Although Cloe didn''t understand the deep meaning behind this one sentence, Raelle understood it well. How could she not know what was on her grandfather''s mind? ''Keep an eye on him?'' That was like putting a prison sentence on that neer. Now, everything he did would be under the scrutiny of Xiang Tianyu and exactly when he''d feelcent for having everything, Xiang Tianyu would even snatch the ground from under his feet!

    How cruel!

    Wait! Raelle didn''t think it was cruel at all. In fact, she didn''t think anything about it at all. Since her grandfather was involved, she had already decided to take a step back. Handling such stuff wasn''t her thing anyway.

    "Let him enjoy then," said Raelle thoughtfully.

    Just because Cloe didn''t understand Grandfather Xiang, didn''t mean she didn''t understand Raelle as well. If anything, this ''let him enjoy'' made her shudder for some reason. She understood what was toe now. But since it didn''t involve her, she decided to just stay out of it.

 Chapter 275 - Sand Castles

    "There are so many people with malicious intentions,"mented Cloe, feeling frustrated. "Entertainment circle has never been short of such people who love to use underhanded means. What a shame!" As if forgetting that Raelle was her boss, sheined, "Why did you even allow Hyson to be an idol? It''s a dangerous ce for a cute bunny-like him."

    Raelle really wanted to tell her that the ''cute bunny'' had sharp teeth and even sharper ws. It was just that he hid them well. Or more precisely, Hyson never found the reason to bite someone to death. But if one thinks that he was simple for a ce like an entertainment circle, then they were hugely mistaken!

    "And do you think there are no such people in the corporate world?" asked Raelle. Cloe stilled at that question while Raelle went on, "Humans are the same everywhere. The corporate world is just as cruel as any other. Isn''t that why they, even in business, we are all fighting a bloody battle."

    Cloe couldn''t refute those words. It was indeed true that there were such people everywhere. She had dealt with plenty of malicious people while following Raelle. But she seemed to have forgotten that now. Perhaps, because she had gotten way too used to it and found it nothing noteworthy. But when the same thing happened with someone she admired, she really felt it was wrong.

    "Check your mail," instructed Raelle. "And stop disturbing me now. Just because my husband isn''t around doesn''t mean I''ll allow you to take his time."

    Cloe gaped at her in disbelief, "You..."

    "What?"

    Cloe forced herself to smile at her, "Nothing."

    "How''s your allergy?" asked Raelle.

    "Well, it''s under control," just as she said it she ended up sneezing again.

    "Is that what you call having it under control?" inquired Raelle.

    Cloe scratched the tip of her nose saying, "It seems I have to pay a visit to the hospital."

    "Tomorrow morning, after the board meeting, you can leave," said Raelle.

    "How thoughtful of you, Chief!"

    "I just don''t want you to spread your germs to me," added Raelle as if she wasn''t doing it for her health''s sake at all.

    However, Cloe didn''t mind that answer from her at all. It already meant a lot that Raelle was willing to give her a day off. "Good night, Chief! I''ll see you tomorrow."

    As soon as Cloe hung up, Shui Xian''s voice rang, "What happened to Yue Fai?"

    Raelle looked at the iPad screen and found him drinking the soup just as she had asked him to do. His hair was dry now and looked fluffy making anyone want to run their fingers through his hair. But obviously, Raelle couldn''t do it now that he was so far away.

    "Nothing for you to worry about," replied Raelle.

    "What? Are you gonna hide it from me?" inquired Shui Xian.

    "No," answered Raelle. "If you want to know then okay." Then she briefed him about everything that happened online on this day.

    Shui Xian wasn''t surprised to hear any of it. After all, he was more familiar with these tactics than Raelle. But he didn''t worry about Hyson since he already knew Hyson didn''t need his help at all. There were people who could protect Hyson. And not only that, Hyson could protect himself very well. He was like a rose with poisonous thorns. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have managed to survive in this circle for so long without any rumors about him.

    But even though he knew all of this, he still had his own ns for Hyson. It was just that he didn''t n to share them with Raelle for now.

    "How are you feeling now?" asked Raelle when Shui Xian was done drinking his chicken soup and got under the nket.

    "I just got a little wet," replied Shui Xian. "It''s nothing serious. I didn''t catch a cold. I only sneezed a couple of times because my hair was wet. Now, I''m already feeling all warm and fuzzy. But it could be better if I could hold you in my arms."

    "Why are you still thinking about hugging me?"

    "Because these days, my wife rules my thoughts," answered Shui Xian sincerely. "I have only been here for one day and all day, I''ve been thinking what would I do when I meet you."

    "Really?"

    "Really!" He took a pause and asked, "Did you think about me?"

    Raelle shook her head honestly, "When I was about to eat my lunch, that''s only when I thought about you."

    Shui Xian sighed ruefully but instantly perked up, "At least, you remembered me."

    "Actually," continued Raelle. "When I was searching for videotapes in the storeroom, I again thought of you. There were plenty of things to remind me of you."

    "That makes me feel good," said Shui Xian. "By the way, why were you looking for those videotapes? Are you curious about my childhood? You want to know what your husband looked like when he was young?" His eyes were sparkling with intense light. He was anticipating an affirmation from her. Because that meant, she was interested in knowing him at a time when she wasn''t in his life.

    "Not really," Raelle pricked the bubble of his dreams with her truth almost instantly. "It''s because B¨¤ told Hyson how Yue sang at one of your birthday parties and he was curious to hear her voice. That''s why B¨¤ was looking for those videotapes. I was just helping him."

    "Waifu, can''t you lie just to make me happy?"

    "The castle built with sand is prone to drown with the first wave of the water," answered Raelle. "Lying is also like sand. You can never achieve happiness with it."

    Shui Xian stared at her in silence for a long while before he smiled at her, "Babes, I miss you."

    "Already?"

    He nodded his head, "Yes. Already. In fact, I miss you more than I thought I would. Certainly, I overestimated myself."

    "Then you better work hard ande back soon," suggested Raelle.

    "Yes, I should," answered Shui Xian with a sweet and indulgent smile on his lips.

 Chapter 276 - Just A Test

    Just as Raelle had saidst night, she actually allowed Cloe to leave early to get to her doctor''s appointment. Although Cloe had long been allergic to pollen, it had never been severe. Usually, she''d be fine after taking her prescribed anti-allergy medicine. But this time around, it wasn''t working as effectively as she''d like.

    So, the best option was to see the doctor as soon as possible. It was a good thing that she made the appointment at the same hospital where Hyson was staying. That way, she''d be able to meet Hyson after her doctor''s appointment. And that''s exactly what she did!

    Right after she left the doctor''s room, she went to see Hyson. When she reached the room, she was surprised to see how quiet it was in his room.

    He was leaning against the railing in the balcony basking in the sun. There wasn''t his usual yful aura surrounding him. Instead, he looked too calm which would make anyone feel like they were looking at an entirely different person. Even though there was a small smile on his lips, it gave him a different feel.

    "Hyson..." she called out.

    Hyson turned his head and his smile widened when he looked at her. "Now, this is a surprise. How did my best friend allow you to leave the office at this time?"

    "I had a doctor''s appointment," told Cloe. "So, she let mee. Also, since she knew I have a doctor''s appointment here, she asked me to pass this snack box to you."

    Hyson''s brows quirked up before he happily took the snack box from her and thanked her. He even asked why she needed to see a doctor.

    "So, did you juste to give me this snack box?" inquired Hyson.

    "Not really," answered Cloe. "I have a lot on my mind for thest two days and I wanted to talk to someone about it. But I didn''t know who should I talk to. I don''t have many friends, you know. And suddenly, I thought of you."

    "Although I''m not as patient as Ellie, I''m still a good listener," said Hyson. "So, please, feel free to say anything. I don''t mind at all."

    Cloe smiled at him thankfully. She really needed someone to clear her doubts. She had been thinking about Soren''s offer all this while and wondered whether she should really go on a blind date as he said or not. But she couldn''te to a conclusion.

    "A friend of mine asked me a question," she told him. "He asked why am I wasting my life for a scumbag cheater ex."

    "Good question," said Hyson. "Life is a one-way road, I wonder why people keep trying to make a U-turn."

    "I don''t want to take a U-turn," Cloe took a deep breath. Clearing her thoughts, she asked, "What do you think about blind dates?"

    "You should ask for Ellie''s opinion, she is more experienced when ites to blind dates," said Hyson half-jokingly and half-seriously.

    Cloe rolled her eyes, "Chief had about fifty blind dates and each one was a failure. Do you really think I should ask for her opinion?"

    "Well, why not?" inquired Hyson seriously.

    "Chief never wanted to continue with any of her blind dates and she always found ways to make them say they didn''t like her."

    "You''re wrong though," said Hyson. "From the moment Ellie epted to go on those blind dates, she had taken it seriously. There had never been a time in her life when she did things casually or on impulse. Her purpose had never been to look for rejections."

    Cloe was surprised to hear him say that and asked, "I''ve been with her. She always offered them what they needed in life the most with one condition that they''d have to reject her. And it always worked."

    "Isn''t that the problem?" asked Hyson. "It always worked..." He shook his head. "If I offer you to choose between a diamond and a mine of diamonds, which one would you choose?"

    "Any sensible person would choose the mine of diamonds," answered Cloe.

    "But it''s a pity that weck sensible people in this world," tsked Hyson. "Ellie offered them a condition and every single one of them epted it without any hesitation. In my opinion, they were all a bunch of idiots! Ellie is like a mine of diamonds. Forget about their one wish, she could have offered them the world if they rejected her condition. But they all thought of immediate profit. They all assumed that if they didn''t take her offer, they''d lose both; her and the tempting offer. But it wasn''t true. If any of them had said no to her offer and insisted on going out with her, she''d have never refused."

    A fuse went off in Cloe''s brain as she asked, "You mean, all that was just a test?"

    "It was indeed just a test," answered Hyson. "She wanted to see the real selves of those men and she saw it very well."

    "I knew Chief had aplicated mind but didn''t think she''d be ying games even when it came to a blind date," said Cloe.

    "Blind date is a serious matter," said Hyson. "How could she take the choice of her life partner that casually? The only reason why Opa also overlooked what she did on those blind dates was that he also knew none of those men were worthy of her. They couldn''t even pass her simple test." He thought about something and asked after a pause, "But why did you bring up blind date all of a sudden? Are you going on one?"

    "I''m thinking about it," answered Cloe not trying to hide it from him. "But..."

    "But you''ve been away from the game for so long that it seems daunting now?"

    Cloe nodded her head, "Couldn''t have said it better than you."

    "I''m quite smart," Hyson praised himself. "That friend of yours must have wanted to introduce someone to you."

    Cloe gaped at him in surprise, "How do you know that?"

 Chapter 277 - Normal

    Cloe could understand that since she asked about blind dates, Hyson could deduce that she was going on one. But, how the hell did he figure out that her friend introduced that blind date?

    Hyson was amused by her reaction as he asked, "Usually it''s always friends who introduce you to blind dates."

    "So, you''re just taking a blind shot?" inquired Cloe. "And it even hit bull''s eye?"

    Hyson shrugged his shoulders nonchntly, "Not really. You began this conversation by telling me about that friend who asked you that question. If that friend brought it up, he definitely wanted you to move on. And the best he could do was to introduce you to someone."

    Cloe stared at him in silence carefully thinking whether he was the same Hyson she thought she knew. The one she knew was yful, but the one before her had keen senses. But then again, how did she even expect a friend of Raelle Xiang to be so simple? She was the naive one to expect that Hyson was different from Raelle.

    "For a minute, I forgot that you''re Chief''s best friend," said Cloe as she shook her head at her own naivety. "I shouldn''t have underestimated you. There has to be a reason why the Chief is able to connect with you."

    "Well, you are right," agreed Hyson with a small smile ying on his lips. "I do have a connection with Ellie. But it''s one that is even difficult to exin even for me."

    "Difficult to exin?" asked Cloe.

    Hyson nodded his head, "It is indeed quite difficult. She is more than a friend to me but I can never look at her as my partner. I know I love her but it''s different. The most difficult thing had always been how to define our rtionship. People like puttingbels on rtionships and feelings but themon thing about her and me is that we both neither want to put abel on rtionships and neither are we that good with feelings."

    Cloe actually agreed with his words. Saying Hyson and Raelle were just best friends would be wrong. Because the way these two cared for each other was more like siblings. Their connection was difficult to exin for sure.

    "Anyway, enough about us. Let''s get back to you," said Hyson. "First tell me, do you want to go on this blind date?"

    Cloe hesitated before replying, "I don''t know really. I''ve grown ustomed to depending on myself for years. Now, I''m really uncertain whether I''m ready for a rtionship or not."

    "But that''s no excuse for denying yourself a chance to try again," said Hyson. "You don''t have to rush into a rtionship if you''re not ready for it. But there is nothing with going on a blind date. If nothing else, you''ll get thepany over dinner. And if the guy is a gentleman, you''ll even get a free meal!"

    Cloeughed at Hyson''s words. "Soren said the same thing that I can just take it as casual dating to explore and see the world of dating all over again."

    "And he is absolutely right!" said Hyson. "Let''s see... Do you trust your friend''s choice?"

    Cloe nodded her head without hesitation, "I trust him more than anyone else in my life. He is the one person who would always do anything to put me on the right track. If it weren''t for him, I can''t even imagine how much of a fool I''d have been."

    "That''s all then," was Hyson''s response. "If you have faith in him. Then just go to the blind date. If he is a good friend as you said, he''d never set you up with another scumbag. Besides, I know you can''t find good people everywhere these days but not everyone you meet can be as bad as the previous one."

    Cloe thought about his words and nodded her head. "I''ll listen to you." Cloe felt like her thoughts were sorted now that she talked to Hyson. She wasn''t expecting it actually. "Thanks for the pep talk! You''re an amazingpanion. Chief is lucky to have you as a friend."

    Hyson shook his head at her, "Nah! I''m the lucky one to have her in my life. After all, not everyone can be Raelle Xiang''s best friend. That position is exclusively mine."

    "And you''re just as proud as ever to announce that she is your friend," chuckled Cloe.

    "I''ll never get tired of it," he told her.

    "I''m not disturbing you right?"

    "No way," said Hyson. "I have nothing to do here."

    "Don''t focus on the online discussion," Cloe said cautiously. "It''s already under control."

    "Do I look like someone who would be affected by people''s opinions?" asked Hyson. "I was like that when I was young. I used to get really mad when those ssmates teased me. I even used to get into fights to get back at them. I even used to get bullied by them since I was smaller in stature than them and younger than them." He took a deep breath and calmly continued, "But now it doesn''t matter. I''ve be numb to what people have to say about me."

    "Why would they bully you?" Cloe was surprised.

    Hyson smiled which seemed dimmer as he said, "Because my family wasn''t like theirs. They had mom and dad while I only had a mom. Also, my mom couldn''t speak. We live in a world where when you''re a little different, it bes difficult for society to ept. Since my family didn''t fall under the category of ''normal'' I was isted."

    Cloe''s heart clenched when she heard him say all that with a smile on his face. It really hurt her to see the always smiling sunny boy being like this. She didn''t know why she felt so emotional but it seemed like tears were threatening to brim in her eyes.

    "It must have been difficult," she didn''t know what else to say.

    Hyson gave her a confused look, "It''s been such a long time that I can''t even remember if it was difficult or not."

 Chapter 278 - Cutely Handsome

    Since Cloe had the rest of the day to herself, she decided to spend some more time with Hyson talking to him. Even though she wished to learn more about him, Hyson didn''t let anything else slip. The only reason he told her about the bullying was that he momentarily lost himself. Otherwise, he had never brought it up before others except for people closest to him.

    Or perhaps, he should say that even his mother had no idea that he had been bullied when he was young. Even when he used to get into fights, he would never let her know what was the fight about. He''d do anything to make sure his mother didn''t get to hear any mean words.

    Suddenly, the door of the hospital room was pushed open and Yue Yue rushed in with Mu Chenyan following her.

    "Mum!" Hyson stood up immediately when his eyes caught her sight.

    Yue didn''t look at his sparkly eyes, her eyes were wandering all around his body. She made him turn left and right to thoroughly inspect his body. She wanted to make sure that there weren''t any wounds. But seeing the bruises that had actually lightened a lot, made her heart hurt painfully.

    "Aiya!" Hyson hugged her tightly. "It isn''t as bad as it looks. Trust me."

    Yue Yue pped his back and heughed even louder.

    "I''m not lying to you!" he said in his defense. "A strong woman like you gave birth to an iron man like me. How can this much hurt?"

    Yue didn''t fall for his yful remarks at all and continued to hug him tightly. In fact, she was using his heartbeat against her ear as reassurance. And the warmth of his body allowed her to believe that her son was safe and was in her arms right now.

    Meanwhile, Mu Chenyan looked at this heartwarming scene from the side and even flicked a tear that was even there as she said, "How touching!" Then she looked at Cloe who stood beside her and asked, "Hi, Cloe! What''s up? Haven''t seen you in days!"

    "Hello, Miss Mu," greeted Cloe. "It''s good to see you back." She took a pause and asked, "Miss Mu, is that Hyson''s mom?"

    Mu Chenyan looked at Yue and then back at Cloe before nodding her head, "Yeah. Why?"

    "She..." Cloe took a pause to sort out her words before continuing, "She looks beautiful like fine jade."

    Mu Chenyan chuckled softly, "I know, right? She is indeed beautiful. If I was a man, I''d have already asked her out. Such a shame that I can''t show her off."

    Cloe gave Mu Chenyan a strange look as she said, "It''s not surprising that someone like you raised Chief."

    "Only someone amazing like me could raise your peerless Chief," answered Mu Chenyan shamelessly.

    "Have you ever noticed?" asked Cloe.

    "What?"

    "Your persona in front of Chief and your persona for the rest of world are wildly different," said Cloe. "In front of Chief, you are the epitome of gentleness. You are loving and caring and thoughtful. But for the rest of the world, you''re shrewd, sharp-tongued, shameless, and even brutal!"

    Mu Chenyan''s smile widened, "It seems it was right to appoint you as Elle''s assistant. Only someone with a keen observation like you could survive around her."

    Cloe didn''t know whether she should be surprised or not at the fact that Mu Chenyan actually epted everything she said about her without any hesitation.

    After that, Mu Chenyan stepped up to pull Yue away from Hyson saying, "If you continued to hug him, how will I get the chance to hug him?''

    Yue red at Mu Chenyan but thetter was indifferent about it. Mu Chenyan pinched Hyson''s cheeks saying, "My little cutie, how are you?"

    "Yanyan!" Hyson whined at that ''little cutie.''

    Mu Chenyan rubbed his head lovingly, "No matter how you deny it, you''re still gonna be my little cutie. Now and forever!" Even though she knew he didn''t like being called ''cute'', he couldn''t help it. Although Hyson didn''t have a cute face, his eyes always made him appear adorable.

    "I''m handsome!" he announced narcissistically. "Not cute!"

    "Yes, yes. Our Fai is cutely handsome!" said Mu Chenyan making Hyson want to stomp his feet in frustration. Hyson was gnashing his teeth but he couldn''t do anything. He loved thisdy too much to do or say anything to her. Apart from that, Hyson really respected and admired Mu Chenyan, so most of the time, he''d dly ept defeat before her.

    Yue pushed Mu Chenyan aside and said, ''Stop teasing my son.''

    "Yes, mydy!" Mu Chenyan immediately bowed before Yue making Hysonugh out.

    ''Behave, we have an outside here,'' reminded Yue as she pointed at Cloe.

    "Cloe knows me way too well. She even just called me shameless which means she has read me inside out. There is no need for me to keep a facade before her," replied Mu Chenyan. "Besides, Cloe is like family. She has worked with Elle for years."

    Cloe was instantly touched when Mu Chenyan said that she was like family. Perhaps, even Mu Chenyan didn''t know how much those words meant to Cloe right now who had been struggling to get an acknowledgment from her own family for years.

    Cloe smiled at Yue and said to Hyson, "I should be leaving now."

    "Why?"

    "It''s not right for me to disturb your time with your mother," said Cloe. "I''lle to see you again some other time."

    Hyson nodded his head.

    "Bye, Miss Mu and..." Cloe didn''t know how to address Hyson''s mom.

    "Oh, she is Yue Yue," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Right. It''s nice meeting you Miss Yue. Have a nice day!"

    Yue Yue smiled in return and nodded at her. Cloe didn''t feel right to stay any longer and holding her doctor''s file, she left to give them privacy. She knew how much Hyson must have missed his mother and it was only right to allow him to spend his time with his mother.

 Chapter 279 - Cuteness Trap

    Cloe was leaving the hospital when a little boy of about 5 or 6 years bumped into her. Cloe looked down and the little boy turned his head up to look at her. Seeing his cute face, Cloe smiled at him and the little boy was instantly charmed by that smile.

    "Sam, stop running in the hospital!" came an angry voice from behind.

    The little boy was scared by the voice so much that he immediately hid behind Cloe and clutched her pants as if seeking protection from her. Seeing his frightened look, Cloe frowned. She ced her hand on the little boy''s head to reassure him.

    And then she faced the man whose voice scared the little boy.

    Cui Xukun was taken aback when he saw Cloe here. But then his eyes moved to the little boy hiding behind her. He beckoned him toe over saying, "Sammy,e here."

    The little boy shook his head, "No!"

    "Can''t you talk nicely?" asked Cloe seeing how Cui Xukun was still speaking in a rebuking manner to the little boy. "He is just a kid."

    Cui Xukun almost rolled his eyes at those words. Just a kid? He was not just a kid and Cui Xukun knew it better than anyone! It was also his act of collecting sympathy from strangers that made Cui Xukun believe that he wasn''t just a kid. Which kid nned like this?

    "You shouldn''t fall for his looks," said Cui Xukun to Cloe, patiently. "Sammy, it''s not good to disturb strangers. Get back here, right now!"

    The little boy called, Sam made a face as if he was about to cry which tugged at Cloe''s heart.

    "You''re scaring him," said Cloe. She crouched down before the little boy and hugged him to soothe him. The little boy hugged her neck with his small arms and as he ced his chin on her shoulder, he looked at Cui Xukun with a smug look. He definitely didn''t look like someone who was about to cry.

    His look made Cui Xukun seem like he was being provoked but he was helpless!

    Cloe unbeknownst to this, stroked the little boy''s head lovingly, "It''s okay, baby. No need to cry."

    The little boy rubbed his face on her neck making her tickle. Cloe found the boy too cute to resist. And because she found him too cute, she felt even more displeased with Cui Xukun. She red at him saying, "Don''t talk to the little boy like that. Are you even human? How can you even raise your voice on a child?"

    The little boy hugged her leg from behind, seeking protection as if he depended on her. And Cloe liked this dependence a lot.

    "As a father, you should be protecting your son!" she was finding Cui Xukun particrly irksome. "Even if he makes a mistake, you should be patient with him. He is your son. If you teach him with patience, how will he not understand it?"

    Cui Xukun stared at her wide-eyed, "Wait! I think there is a misunderstanding here. He is not my son."

    "Wuwu! I just made a small mistake and Daddy doesn''t want me anymore! Bad, Daddy!"

    Cui Xukun gaped at this little devil who was pushing him into a corner. Wasn''t he already unlucky enough? From the time he saw Cloe with Shui Xian, he already knew he had no chance with Cloe. And that''s why even after meeting her here, he wasn''t feeling any particr happiness. Instead, he felt like life was ying a joke on him. He wanted to forget about her now and life brought her right in front of his eyes.

    Even worse was the fact that now his devil nephew was even making him seem like a bad person in her eyes. It was okay if he couldn''t be with her but why was his nephew trying to crumble his image before her?

    He was still SINGLE! How did he be a father now?!

    "Sammy, don''t talk nonsense!" warned Cui Xukun as he gave the little boy a hard stare.

    As Cloe felt the little boy''s arms tightening around her leg as if he was scared by Cui Xukun, Cloe''s heart also clenched. She felt so bad for the little boy who looked so vulnerable.

    "How can a father even say that?" she questioned. "Just because your son is yful, you don''t even want to acknowledge him now? How ruthless! People like you don''t deserve to be a father at all!"

    After that was Cloe''s one-man show. She insulted Cui Xukun in a way that the poor guy was feeling like digging a hole to bury into. Why didn''t he know that she was so good with words? Especially when it came to insulting someone?

    After Cloe was tired and felt thirsty, only then did she take a break. Seeing that, Cui Xukun looked around and found a vending machine. He rushed over to get a water bottle and offered it to Cloe, "You must be thirsty now. Have some water, you can continueter on." Then he turned to his little nephew and said, "And little son, I''m sorry. Daddy was wrong for taking you here. Don''t worry, I''ve called your mommy. She''ll be here soon."

    The little boy''s face paled when he learned that his mother was on the way. He left Cloe''s side and rushed into Cui Xukun, "Uncle, don''t do this to me. Mommy is gonna be angry."

    "Well, I can''t do anything about that," said Cui Xukun. "I brought you here for vination because she told me to. But now since you''re so scared of the injection, I can''t control you. I''m a useless father after all. So, I''ll let your mommy take the charge again."

    The little boy felt like he dug his own grave by being mischievous. Why did he forget that his Uncle wasn''t as simple as his father?

    He turned to Cloe and apologized, "I''m sorry, pretty sister. I was just running because I didn''t want to get an injection. Uncle was mad because I ran all over the hospital to avoid him. He isn''t my daddy." He held Cui Xukun''s hand and said, "Uncle, I''ll get the injection now. I promise I won''t run again. Just ask mommy to note."

    Cloe was surprised by this turn of events and now Cui Xukun was pleased to his nephew like this. Indeed, using his sister''s name was enough to make people as straight as an arrow!

    "This..." Cloe didn''t know what to say and remembering how she insulted Cui Xukun just now, she flushed in embarrassment.

    Cui Xukun smiled at her not minding anything she said to him. Instead, he said, "I''m sorry. My nephew is a bit mischievous. I apologize to you for what he just did." He even bowed his head slightly to show his sincerity which took Cloe by surprise. He picked up his nephew and added, "We should leave now. Sammy, say bye to the pretty sister."

    "Bye, pretty sister!" The little boy waved his hand at Cloe with a smile on his face.

    Cloe''s heart melted at the sight of his smile and she even forgot all about what just happened. It was really easy to fall into the cuteness trap of kids and she was a sucker for cuteness! It was no wonder that she had taken an instant liking to Hyson.

 Chapter 280 - Food Calling

    Meanwhile, Hyson was getting pestered by the twodies who were so worried about him. He really didn''t know how to save himself.

    Squeezing his face, Mu Chenyanmented, "Our Fai has lost so much weight these days. I can''t even feel his squishy cheeks. This won''t do. I have to make lots of things for Fai."

    Hearing thatment, Hyson perked up and nodded his head like a chicken pecking grains. "I have really lost a lot of weight. Look even my jaw has be so sharp that it can cut people."

    Mu Chenyan chuckled at his remark, "Indeed, this jawline can certainly cut through many girls'' hearts."

    Hyson gave her a look, "Yanyan, that''s not what I meant. I haven''t had a good meal in days. I miss your Szechwan Chilli Chicken and Honey Chilli Potato. I feel like I haven''t eaten it for a century."

    Yue smacked his head, ''You can''t eat all that for now. Nothing too spicy for now.''

    Hyson groaned, "I''ll soon forget the taste of good food." He gave Mu Chenyan a pitiful look, "Don''t you think I''m too pitiful?"

    Yue gave him a look andined, ''Then who told you get into an ident? This is a lesson for you. It''ll remind you to not be so careless in the future.''

    Hyson lowered his head feeling wronged, "I''m a good boy so I always look for goodness in others. How would I know that I''ll get into an ident? And you''re the one who taught me to look for goodness in others."

    Mu Chenyan instantly rubbed his head, "Our Fai is never wrong." Then she turned to Yue, "If you''re worried that doesn''t mean you have to reprimand him. Look at him! How can you even bring yourself to be upset with him?"

    Finding his supporting pir, Hyson continued to lean on Mu Chenyan. He didn''t mind being reprimanded by his mother but it''s not like he liked it. His mother usually didn''t reprimand him because he was dear to her. The only time she did reprimand him, it''d be when she was worried about him.

    "Get well soon, my little cutie! And then I''ll not only make Szechwan Chilli Chicken and Honey Chilli Potato for you but also Wok Tossed Veggies in Honey and ck Bean ze," said Mu Chenyan knowing well enough what he liked to eat.

    "Yum!" Hyson was already drooling just at the reminder of the taste of those dishes. Swallowing visibly, he added, "Can I also get Peri Peri Chicken Satay?"

    "Of course!" agreed Mu Chenyan without hesitation.

    "How about some Chilli Fish and Chilli Soya Nuggets?" he continued with sparkly eyes.

    "Yes, that too!"

    Before Hyson could add something more to his list of foods to eat, Yue stopped him from continuing, ''That''s enough! She isn''t your personal chef!''

    Hyson pouted at his mother and went silent. Mu Chenyan looked at her best friend, "It''s not like you''re gonna cook it. Why are you so upset about it? I can definitely make this much for him." Then she said to Hyson, "My cutie Fai, you continue to tell me what else do you want to eat. I''ll prepare it all for you."

    With her agreement, Hyson continued to prattle on about what he wanted to taste. He even didn''t forget to tell her how Raelle ate so much right in front of him.

    "It''s okay. Next time, we''ll also eat everything right in front of her and won''t offer Elle anything," said Mu Chenyan.

    "If only, it''d affect her," said Hyson.

    ''Didn''t your doctor ask you to rest? Why are jumping around?'' asked Yue. ''Lay down and go to sleep.''

    "But I can''t sleep right now," protested Hyson.

    ''Even if you can''t, you have to,'' insisted Yue.

    "Fai, you should rest. It''s really not good to move around so much right now. If you won''t get better soon, how will you eat all the food?" added Mu Chenyan.

    "But I feel fine," said Hyson. But seeing how his words fell on deaf ears, he could only sigh inwardly andid down on the bed. Obviously, he couldn''t sleep since he didn''t feel like it but he still closed his eyes as he was told to do so. Because he didn''t have the courage to go against these twodies that would be detrimental to him.

    As he closed his eyes, he was able to see the images of all the food he just listed down. There, those Soya Dumplings in Tomato Sauce were floating around his mouth, tempting him and teasing him. Garlic Prawns'' fresh aroma was making him dizzy. Those noodles were calling his name, asking him to take a bite.

    Hyson didn''t know about sleep but now he was really hungry. Why did he think about food before closing his eyes? He was torturing himself by doing so. Now he couldn''t even eat it all but was left in so much pain at the thought that he couldn''t eat it all.

    And now that he was hungry, it was even more difficult to sleep. What a dilemma!

    "Jokes aside, Fai does look quite weak,"mented Mu Chenyan. "I really have to fatten him up again."

    ''There are so many bruises on his body,'' said Yue. ''His injuries couldn''t be that light as he makes it seem.''

    Mu Chenyan sighed out, "Even if we ask, he won''t tell anything truthfully. No matter how painful it is, you won''t hear it from him. So, of course, he is taking it lightly. But I have asked the doctors, although the wounds look scary, it''s all superficial. His bones didn''t get injured and that''s a relief."

    Yue nodded her head, ''That is a relief.''

    "Besides, have you seen how energetic he is? He''ll get better in no time!" said Mu Chenyan with certainty. She was in fact trying to ease up Yue''s worries but her words had some truth to them. None of Hyson''s wounds were severe. His internal bleeding was the trouble that had already been solved with the surgery.

 Chapter 281 - Iâ€™ll Be Waiting

    "Take care of your son and never ever ask me to do anything rted to him," said Cui Xukun as he passed his nephew to his sister. Clearly, he was mad! And that was not something one would see every day. At least, that''s what his sister thought.

    But since currently, her brother was in a bad mood, she could tell that her son must have done something again. She wasn''t even surprised that her son did something after all everyone knew about how mischievous Sammy was. However, usually, Cui Xukun would y along with Sammy. Since he had such a reaction this time, it meant something serious happened.

    ??

    And now she was super curious to know.

    "What did my son do to make you this mad?" asked Cui Xuqing as she picked up her son who pouted, showing his mother how wronged he felt right now.

    Obviously, as a mother, Cui Xuqing knew her son inside out, how could she not know what he was up to? She wasn''t gonna fall for it at all.

    "Why don''t you ask your dear son?" retorted Cui Xukun. "I''m telling you, if I end up single for the rest of my life, it''ll be all because of your son!"

    Cui Xuqing''s lips parted as she gaped at her brother in disbelief. "Kun, don''t try to wrongly convict my son. He is too young to take this me."

    "He is young?" Cui Xukun red at his nephew who was avoiding his eyes. "His tiny head is capable of nning huge troubles!"

    Well, there was nothing she could refute about what he just said. Seeing how Cui Xukun was about to leave, she called him from behind, "Kun, please pick Xena from school!"

    "I''m not your babysitter!" Cui Xukun shot back. "Pick your daughter from school yourself or call your husband. I''m out of here!"

    And with the bang, he mmed the door and made a grand and loud exit from there. Cui Xuqing flinched a little seeing her brother''s temper. She eyed her son, "What did you do now?"

    "Nothing," replied Sammy while fidgeting under his mother''s gaze.

    "Nothing?" repeated Cui Xuqing thoughtfully. "If it was nothing, your uncle Kun would never react like this. He is such an easygoing person. Even when I used to bully him when we were young, he never reacted like this. He never evenined to mom and dad about it."

    "Mommy, you used to bully uncle Kun?" asked Sammy with an eager gaze directed at his mother.

    Cui Xuqing realized what she just blurted out and cleared her throat, "You, young man, are in big trouble right now!" Sammy lowered his head not daring to look at her. "Here, take my phone and call your father. Tell him to pick up your sister from school."

    "Why don''t you call, daddy?" asked Sammy innocently.

    "Do as I said," came Cui Xuqing''s order. "Don''t cross-question me all the time."

    "Oh..." responded Sammy with a bit of grievance showing on his face but he still followed his mother''s order and called his father.

    ....

    After reaching home, Cloe made some pasta for herself and ate it with a wine ss. Oh, boy! The feeling of having wine andfort food like pasta in the middle of the day! It felt great!

    The best part was, today wasn''t even the weekend! She could enjoy this rare leisure time in the middle of the week!

    And all of this was enough to make Cloe feel happy. Yes, she was certainly very easy to please. Even she never realized it.

    Recalling her conversation with Hyson today, she fell into deep thought. She not only learned a lot about Hyson''s other side today, she even learned about Raelle. And more importantly, Hyson''s words allowed her to think things through. The things that had bothered her for so long, didn''t seem like that big of a deal anymore.

    She took her phone from the table and called Soren. But unfortunately, Soren''s phone was busy at the moment. She tried again but it seemed he was on another call.

    Just after five minutes, Soren called her back, "You called me?"

    "I did," answered Cloe. "But you''re on another call."

    "Oh, it was my son. He asked me to pick his sister from school. I''m just on my way there right now."

    Cloe was silent for a minute.

    "Cloe?"

    "Yeah! I''m here," said Cloe. "I just... I''m still not able to believe you already have two kids."

    Soren chuckled at her words, "Kids are like blessings, Cloe. I''m particrly d that I got lucky to have my twins."

    "And I never thought I''d hear that from you one day," said Cloe truthfully. "By the way, why are you going yourself? Just ask your driver to pick your daughter from school."

    "I felt like doing it myself today," answered Soren nonchntly. "Well, I''m surprised that you called me yourself. Did Raelle agree to my proposal?"

    "I told you, Chief won''t agree that easily," said Cloe. "She''ll first get a thorough understanding of the project before deciding anything." She took a pause and added, "In fact, how about we meet? I''ll bring Chief with me. You can discuss the project with her and I also have something to talk to you about."

    Soren was surprised but he soonposed himself, "Sounds good to me. Tell me when is fine with you guys? Because I want to invite you both over for dinner."

    "Dinner is a bit difficult but... I''ll still ask Chief," Cloe wasn''t certain whether Raelle would agree to have dinner out even though her husband was not around. After all, just yesterday she saw how Raelle went home right on time because she wanted to have dinner with Master Xian''s father. Since she couldn''t decide it on her own, she''d just have to ask Raelle first.

    "It doesn''t have to be dinner," said Soren. "I''m fine with lunch as well. Just let me know when you both can make the time. It''s better if we can meet within this week."

    "Got it!" Cloe also agreed that they should meet as soon as possible. "Then I''ll see you soon!"

    "I''ll be waiting!"

 Chapter 282 - Prince Charming

    Days passed and soon the day of Hyson''s discharge arrived. Raelle had been the one who came to pick up Hyson. But just as she entered his room to see Hyson still ying with his birds. She threw a bag at him saying, "Change your clothes."

    "Be nice!" said Hyson and opened the bag to check the clothes. "What if you scared them?"

    ??

    "If they are not scared even after seeing your face, I''m pretty sure they have a strong heart," answered Raelle ndly. But her words were definitely tant sarcasm directed at him!

    Hyson snorted at her. He cupped his own face saying, "Look! Open your eyes and look carefully! I look like a real-life ''Prince Charming'' and you can''t even tell that? That''s just sad!"

    Raelle ignored his words as she sat down carelessly and said, "I think it''s sadder that there is an idiot in the 21st century calling himself ''Prince Charming.''"

    Hyson red at her before he went to change out of this hospital gown. He felt like these dull clothes actually turned him into a dull person. A colorful person like him was slowly being sucked of his colors staying in this monotonous atmosphere. Indeed, the hospital wasn''t a ce for someone like him who loved to stay happy regardless of the situation or time.

    While he was getting changed, Raelle''s people packed everything and left. When Hyson was done, Raelle put a baseball cap on his head telling him, "Your fans have been camping outside since they learned about which hospital you''re staying in."

    "I know," said Hyson as he fixed his hat. He had stayed in the hospital for over ten days, of course, he knew how many had beening daily and even tried to get inside. Fortunately, the hospital had a good security team. He was asked to stay at least for a couple more days, but because of how his fans had been acting for the past days, he decided to leave the hospital.

    He had never liked bothering other people because of his own problems. He didn''t want the hospital''s operation to get affected only because he was staying here.

    In this situation, even his group mates couldn''te to see him here.

    Raelle patted his cheek saying, "Don''t look so down. We''re getting out of here already. Besides, I won''t let them siege you."

    "Are you sure siege is the right word to use in this situation?" asked Hyson.

    "Is that the point right now?" retorted Raelle.

    "I guess not," said Hyson.

    Raelle took him out of the hospital from the VIP entrance that allowed them to leave without being caught by the fans. Thinking how his fans would still be waiting outside the hospital when he left, Hyson took a picture of himself and posted a status.

    "Is that necessary?" asked Raelle as she looked at what he was doing through her peripheral vision.

    "Of course, it is," answered Hyson. "I can''t let them wait there for no reason. And also, sooner they leave, sooner the hospital and its patients will be able to go back to normal." After doing his job, he threw the phone in the back seat,pletely forgetting all about it. And then, he stuck his eyes to the window looking outside like a kid who got to see the city for the first time.

    "You''ve lived in this city for way too long, don''t you think?"

    Hyson shrugged his shoulders, "I like to enjoy everything as if it''s my first time. Besides, looking at the same street today and tomorrow obviously have their own differences."

    "And what''s the difference?" she inquired.

    "One is the street you see today and the other would be the one you''ll see tomorrow," he answered with a grin. "You''re the one who said today and tomorrow can''t be the same. Just like yesterday and today are different."

    Surprisingly, Raelle didn''t refute his words. After all, he used her words to make her speechless. How could she refute it now?

    As for Hyson, it was not his intention to make her speechless. In fact, he was just justifying his childish behavior. It had been his habit to look outside the window curiously. Even if he saw the same thing every day, he''d still see it as a novel thing. He was just that kind of a person who knew how to find his own happiness in whatever he was offered.

    Perhaps, the hardships of his childhood had a strong effect on what or who he became today.

    "Ellie..."

    "Hm?"

    "We have never been to an amusement park together, right?"

    Raelle stopped the car at the red light and faced him in silence. She took a while to answer, "No. But why are you bringing it up now?"

    "What a boring childhood we had!" he muttered. "Let''s go to an amusement park someday."

    "Kids go to amusement parks," she said.

    "What are we? We are also kids!" he shot backpletely forgetting the fact that they were in their twenties and one of them was already married.

    "Between you and I, only you can be considered a kid. Not me."

    "Why? Because you''re already at the age to have your own kid now?"

    Raelle gave him a nk look, "Well, sure."

    Hyson''s eyes widened, "Ellie, you really want to have a kid? Already? You don''t find it troublesome?"

    "I didn''t say I want a kid. But I said I have no problem with one either," she stated calmly as she started the car again. "Although it''d be troublesome, however, it''d be a new challenge."

    Hyson facepalmed himself, "Only someone like you would take raising a kid as a challenge, she has to win!"

    "I don''t see anything wrong with that," said Raelle.

    "Of course, you don''t," Hyson sounded bitter. He didn''t even know why he started this conversation with her. How did they get here? He only wanted to go to amusement park, but they somehownded on this topic out of nowhere!

 Chapter 283 - In Your Heart

    "Are you feeling frustrated?" asked Raelle when she noticed Hyson''s expressions.

    "Yes, I am," he agreed. "How can I not be?" He took a pause and turned to her, "Ellie, I''m telling you, don''t bring in a kid into your marriage unless you''re certain that''s what you want."

    ??

    "And when did youe to think that I''d do anything recklessly?" she asked finding his wordspletely unnecessary.

    "I know you''re not reckless at all. But I still wanted to say this," he said.

    "Kids are not the purpose of marriage, Hyson," said Raelle. "A family doesn''t need kids to beplete. A family can be built by two people who are gonna spend a lifetime with each other. You don''t need to remind me that I have to think carefully before choosing whether to have a kid or not."

    Hyson bit his lip and stayed quiet. Of course, he knew that.

    "Oh, and as for the amusement park," added Raelle. "I''ll see if I can book the park for the whole day."

    "No!" he instantly cut in. "I want to enjoy riding with people as normal people do."

    "But you''re not normal," she said.

    "Are you calling me abnormal?"

    "I didn''t say that but there is no lie in that either." Before Hyson could blow his top, she went on, "I meant you''re not an ordinary man. As a star, how are you gonna enjoy the rides with others?"

    "I can definitely work up a perfect disguise for myself," he stated confidently. "You don''t need to concern yourself with it because now, I''ve changed my ns! I''m not going with you!"

    "That''s even better!"

    Hyson gaped at her. She readily agreed as if she was waiting for him to say exactly that. Scheming chicken nugget!

    A phone ring caught their attention and Hyson picked up the phone to tell her, "Xian Ge is calling."

    "Take the call and put it on speaker," said Raelle. As soon as the call connected, she asked, "Are youing back?"

    "Uhh..." Shui Xian nked for a while with that question and hesitated before telling her, "No, I''m noting back yet."

    "Then where are you?" she asked.

    "I don''t know about that but I know where I want to be," said Shui Xian cheekily.

    "And where do you want to be?" inquired Raelle.

    "In your heart," replied Shui Xian.

    "Pfft!" Hyson burst outughing with that answer. "Xian Ge, you''re quite a romantic."

    Shui Xian scratched the tip of his nose. He didn''t think Hyson would be listening to his conversation with his wife. Of course, he wasn''t embarrassed at all. Why would he be? He was just talking to his wife.

    "Fai, you got discharged today?"

    "Yeah, we are going back home now," answered Hyson. "I heard you''d being today as well."

    "I was nning to but something cropped again, I''ll have to stay for longer now," stated Shui Xian feeling frustrated. The more he wanted to go back soon, the more he wasn''t able to do so. It''s been a week since hest saw his wife in person. And because he was busy, they only got to talk once every day, and that too only for a little while.

    "Xian Ge, are you feeling homesick?" asked Hysonpletely ignoring that this call was for Raelle. He believed that since she was driving, she should only focus on driving.

    "I''m homesick," epted Shui Xian. "I''m also lovesick."

    "Wow! You really ept your feelings easily," said Hyson in awe. He had never met someone like Shui Xian who was so vocal about his feelings.

    "If I keep hiding these feelings in my heart, it''ll get too much for me to bear," stated Shui Xian. "And besides, I have to be vocal about my feelings to get the message across. After all, I have a special wife."

    "That''s understandable," said Hyson thoughtfully. "Xian Ge, have you been to an amusement park before?"

    "Yes," answered Shui Xian. "When I was young, my parents would take me to the amusement parks over the weekend. It was quite fun. Later, I went to a theme park in college as well with my friends. It was still fun."

    Hyson stared at Raelle when Shui Xian talked about how he had fun in an amusement park with his family and friends. When it came to this discussion, Hyson felt like he and his best friend were really unfortunate.

    "Why are you suddenly asking about that?" asked Shui Xian.

    "Oh, nothing. I just asked your wife to take me to one but she refused to do so."

    "I didn''t refuse," Raelle interrupted. "You said you won''t take me with you."

    Shui Xian actually understood how their conversation must have gone so he hurriedly suggested, "How about all of us go when Ie back?"

    "All of us?" asked Hyson.

    "Yeah. You, me, and my wife."

    "Can''t we throw Ellie out of this n?"

    "No, can''t do."

    Hyson sighed out, "Forget it. We need someone to pay for us anyway."

    Shui Xianughed out loud at that. He had been feeling so down when he realized he won''t be able to go back home today to see his wife. But talking to Hyson actually helped in lifting up his mood a lot. He was feeling refreshed now.

    "How is your health, Fai?"

    "If I''m already out of the hospital it means I''m already fine," said Hyson.

    "Not really," Shui Xian refuted his words. "I know very well why the doctors allowed you to leave the hospital."

    "You''re well informed," said Hyson. "It seems my best friend learned to talk."

    "I could talk from the age I turned 2," said Raelle.

    "You and I both know what I meant here," Hyson gave her a knowing look.

    Of course, Raelle knew what he meant but she didn''t point it out. She didn''t feel like it was necessary to do so. Yes, she didn''t share things with people all the time but right now, it was about Shui Xian. If she won''t even share things with her husband, who else was she gonna share it with?

 Chapter 284 - A Little Scary

    While Hyson and Raelle were on their way home, Mu Chenyan was busy moving around in the kitchen trying to make every single thing that Hyson had requested. She was spinning like a top. She didn''t let a single person help her as she wanted to do everything on her own.

    Even Yue Yue was told to just wait aside. And that''s why Yue was leisurely eating an apple as she watched Mu Chenyan busying around. She found it quite amusing that Hyson was her son and yet, it was Mu Chenyan who never said no to him for anything.

    ??

    She wanted to take Hyson back home from the hospital but both Mu Chenyan and Grandfather Xiang strongly disagreed with her decision. They said Hyson had to stay at Xiang Manor until hepletely recovered. And because of this, she was also dragged here. After all, Hyson would not live here unless his mom stayed as well.

    *Ding-Dong!*

    Seeing how Mu Chenyan was busy and the house help was already given a day off, Yue stood up and walked over to the door when she heard the doorbell. As she pulled open the wooden door, she looked at the young man whose back was towards her.

    But hearing the sound of the door opening, the young man turned around with a big smile stered on his face. Yue sucked in a breath when she saw the face of the young man.

    Seeing the young man before her, she felt like she traveled back in time and it made her heart ache a little.

    "Oh, aren''t you thedy I met at the sanitorium in Nanzhou?" questioned the young man in surprise. Zhai Yanjun was truly surprised to see Yue. Although theirst meeting was brief, he still remembered it. Because the woman before him gave him not only a familiar feeling but he strangely felt like he knew her.

    As for how or why he had such feelings, he really couldn''t understand at all.

    Yue didn''t know how to react, so she only nodded her head in response to his question. She didn''t think he''d remember their meeting. After all, she was just like any other insignificant stranger to him. But clearly, that wasn''t the case with him. Zhai Yanjun really didn''t consider her to be an insignificant stranger.

    "Yue, who is at the door?" With a rolling pin in her hand, Mu Chenyan came from behind and looked at Zhai Yanjun. She had been rolling dumping sheets when the doorbell rang, she originally didn''t want toe out. But realizing that she and Yue were the only people at home, she ran out with the rolling pin in her hand. "Who are you and why do you look so familiar?" questioned Mu Chenyan as she stared at Zhai Yanjun''s face intently. For a moment, she couldn''t recall who he was.

    Zhai Yanjun bowed his head saying, "Hello, I''m Zhai Yanjun. I''m here to see Granduncle Xiang Tianyu."

    Mu Chenyan''s eyes widened as she immediately recalled who he was.

    "Now, I remember it!" growled Mu Chenyan. "You''re the guy who didn''t even have the decency to show up at the blind date!"

    Zhai Yanjun pursed his lips not knowing what to say to that. As soon as he came back, he took advantage of his off day and came to apologize to Xiang Tianyu in person. He knew his grandparents had alreadye to sort out things but he had been meaning toe himself all this time. Since he was the one to make the mistake, he had to be the one to apologize in person!

    "About that..." Zhai Yanjun parted his lips to exin but how could short-tempered Mu Chenyan give him an opportunity to do so?

    Rasing her rolling pin, she attacked him. Staying in the military for years, obviously, Zhai Yanjun had keen senses and keener reflexes. So, he avoided the attack on reflex easily. And since he avoided the hit, it actually annoyed Mu Chenyan further.

    "You dare to avoid it?"

    "I can exin," said Zhai Yanjun.

    Mu Chenyan scoffed at him, "You think I care about your exnation? You actually insulted my Elle by not showing up on that blind date. Do I look like I give a damn about your exnation?"

    Zhai Yanjun gave her a deep bow, "I''m extremely sorry for what I did."

    Seeing how Mu Chenyan was about to hit him again and Zhai Yanjun didn''t have any intention to avoid it, Yue stepped up and opened her arms to stop Mu Chenyan from continuing.

    "Yue, step aside! I''m gonna beat him to a pulp today!"

    Yue shook her head and red at Mu Chenyan in ager, ''You, back down!''

    "Why should I? He is the one at fault!" Mu Chenyan felt like she was a kidining to her mom trying to justify her actions. To be very honest, she knew she was being unreasonable, but considering the fact that her Elle was too reasonable, she had to be the unreasonable one for her sake. She never liked it when people disrespected her Elle.

    She didn''t mind that Zhai Yanjun didn''t like Raelle or didn''t want to go on that blind date with her. But what she found unbearable was that he didn''t even have the decency to show up and apologize to her. She found it extremely disrespectful. And she wasn''t gonna take it lying down.

    Raelle was the sole purpose of her existence, and she didn''t mind being the bad guy for her.

    Thinking about it, Mu Chenyan moved her hands and managed to smack Zhai Yanjun''s head. Yue pulled her away, ''Stop it right now or I won''t be nice to you!''

    Mu Chenyan looked at Yue incredulously, "You''re trying to protect him?"

    Zhai Yanjun hid behind Yue and said, "Ayi,[1] save me!"

    Yue hid him behind her petite body and warned Mu Chenyan with her eyes to not make a move. Mu Chenyan was truly exasperated by this scene.

    Meanwhile, Zhai Yanjun was thinking about why he so familiarly moved behind Yue and even called her ''Ayi''? Not only that, he felt like he had done it way too many times. So many times that it became so natural for him to hide behind her with dependence quite palpable in his voice.

    ''He is our guest,'' reminded Yue. ''You can''t behave like this with a guest on our doorstep.''

    Mu Chenyan snorted, "I''m an ill-bred person. Do you really think I would really consider all that? So what if he is our guest?"

    ''If you didn''t step down, I''m leaving,'' threatened Yue which stunned Mu Chenyan. She looked at Zhai Yanjun once again and then frowned. She found Yue''s protectiveness towards this young man to be quite peculiar.

    As much as she knew about Yue, she could tell that Yue would not go against her for just anyone. Then this young man... She suddenly recalled the parents of Zhai Yanjun and snickered.

    "Whatever!" With that, she stepped inside leaving them behind.

    She really wished to beat that guy with her rolling pin once! But it''s a shame that Yue saved him. If only, he hade around when Yue wasn''t here!

    "Thank you!" said Zhai Yanjun with a smile.

    Yue turned around and looked at him. She couldn''t help giving him a gentle and loving smile. She raised her hand and touched the side of his face. Zhai Yanjun didn''t even find it strange at all. In fact, he leaned into her touch and found it quiteforting.

    He could feel her genuine care from her touch and it really warmed his heart.

    "Will you get in trouble for saving me?" he inquired.

    Yue''s brows knitted up slightly and shook her head. She parted her lips but then, she pulled out her phone and typed, ''Yan isn''t a viin. She won''t do anything to me. You don''t have to worry about her.''

    Zhai Yanjun breathed a sigh of relief, "That''s a relief. I thought I got you into trouble."

    Yue chuckled silently at how exaggeratedly he sighed as if Mu Chenyan was a monster who would eat him.

    "I never even found my training officer as scary as she seemed just now," remarked Zhai Yanjun.

    Yue couldn''t say anything to that. What could she possibly say? Mu Chenyan''s momentum was scary and she knew it as well. It was just that on usual days, Mu Chenyan would reign on her temper.

    Yue grew up in an environment where girls had to be elegant and meek while Mu Chenyan grew up in thepletely opposite environment.

    She typed again for Zhai Yanjun, ''She gets a little scary but she is actually a very nice person.''

    Zhai Yanjun found it a little hard to believe that Mu Chenyan was a nice person. But then again, he had heard a thing or two about her from his grandparents so he already knew what he was getting himself into bying here.

    [1] Ayi: Mom''s younger sister in Chinese is called, Ayi. Just like Mom''s elder sister is called, Yima!

 Chapter 285 - I Sure Am One

    Raelle''s car swerved through the driveway when she caught sight of both Yue and Zhai Yanjun standing outside the door. Needless to say, even Hyson saw the scene.

    "What is happening here?" asked Hyson.

    ??

    "I''m not a fortune teller," answered Raelle.

    Hyson gasped exaggeratingly, "Oh my! And I''ve always believed my best friend is omnipotent and omniscient."

    "There is no need to think so highly of me," replied Raelle nkly. "There are certain things I''m not capable of doing."

    "As always, my Ellie is self-aware of her own abilities and ws," remarked Hyson with a grin ying on his lips.

    As the car halted, it caught Yue and Zhai Yanjun''s attention. Hyson was the first one to jump out of the car as he ran over to his mother and engulfed her in his arms tightly. Swaying her body from one side to another, he said, "Mum, my beautiful mum! I am so happy to see you!"

    Yue felt helpless to see him acting like this. There wasn''t anything new about how he acted. And she was indeed used to it somewhat by now.

    But she still pped his back and pushed him away with a stern look, ''Don''t touch me! Go and wash up first! Don''t rub your germs on me!''

    Hyson gaped at his mother, "Mum, are you saying I''m dirty?" Yue nodded her head without any hesitation. "How can you even say that?" Hyson sounded aggrieved. "I washed up beforeing home."

    ''But you came from the hospital,'' reminded Yue.

    "Yeah, I came from the hospital. Isn''t hospital the cleanest?"

    "Technically, no!" came Raelle''s voice from behind. "You can find all kinds of germs and bacterias in the hospital. Even the kinds you won''t find anywhere else. After all, all kinds of patientse to the hospitals."

    Hyson scrunched up his face, "Then why do they make their patients suffer from the smell of disinfectants when they don''t even disinfectant anything?"

    "Maybe they have something against their patients,"mented Raelle.

    "I knew it! Hospitals are the most untrustworthy ces. No wonder I hate hospitals!"

    Zhai Yanjun had been silently listening to these two and couldn''t help chuckling. Raelle turned her head towards him and asked, "Mr. Soldier! I didn''t expect to see you here. To what do we owe this honor?"

    Zhai Yanjun smiled at Raelle, "I actually came to see Granduncle Xiang, didn''t expect to see Saozi[1] here as well."

    "If you''re here to see Opa, why are you standing out here? Come inside," said Raelle as she took the lead to enter the house.

    Hyson skipped over to her side and inquired, "Who is he? And why is he calling you Saozi?"

    "He..." Raelle took another look at Zhai Yanjun before telling him, "He is Zhai Yanjun. Xian''s friend."

    "Oh..." Hyson nodded his head but suddenly recalled something, "Is he the same Zhai Yanjun I have in mind?"

    "He is," answered Raelle which made Hyson look at Zhai Yanjun with a different look in his eyes. Zhai Yanjun being a soldier was familiar with all kinds of hostilities. So, the displeasure in Hyson''s eyes wasn''t really unseen by him but he decided to ignore it for now.

    Apparently, what he heard from his grandparents was really true. Raelle was the Princess that anyone would want to serve. You displease her, you''d put yourself on the cklist of quite a few people. Just like he was on the hitlist of Mu Chenyan right now. He didn''t know what kind of a rtionship was between Hyson and Raelle but he was certain that Hyson''s feelings aligned with Mu Chenyan''s.

    Everyone was overly protective of this girl who didn''t even need their protection. After all, in just two meetings, he had learned of Raelle''s abilities to make one feel headache with only her words.

    Raelle led them to the lounge and made a hand gesture asking Zhai Yanjun to sit down. She watched Yue hurriedly had gone to the kitchen and even brought a ss of fresh juice for Zhai Yanjun in no time.

    Pushing Hyson away, Raelle said, "You should really wash up and clean the germs you brought from the hospital. But be careful, don''t scrub too hard. What would we do if you also got washed away?"

    Hyson''s lips twitched, "Are you saying I''m a germ as well?"

    "I didn''t say it but since you''ve said it yourself, I won''t dare go against you," patting his shoulder she adding, "After all, I always agree with what you say."

    Hyson bared his teeth as if he was ready to bite her flesh off! How could she just say that?

    But he still listened to her and stood up to go and wash up. However, before leaving he said, "You wait for Opa toe back. I''m gonna tell on you!"

    "As if Opa will do anything to me," retorted Raelle calmly.

    When only Raelle and Zhai Yanjun were left in the lounge, Zhai Yanjun looked at her carefully before asking, "Granduncle is not home?"

    "It''s unfortunate for you Mr. Soldier but Opa is really not home today," answered Raelle. "He and B¨¤ went to a charity auction together. And they''d one back in the evening. If you don''t mind waiting, then you''ll be able to see him."

    "I can wait," said Zhai Yanjun. "It''s rare for me to have a day off. I have to see him today and apologize to him in person."

    "Apologize?" inquired Raelle.

    "Forget about it," said Zhai Yanjun. "It''s nothing. But I hope you can save me from Miss Mu."

    "Did Yanyan say anything to you?"

    "Say?" Zhai Yanjun shook his head. "She almost beat me into a meat patty."

    "Oh, that means I almost lost the chance to taste your meat patties. What a shame!"

    Zhai Yanjun looked at her face and realized that she was teasing him with that straight face of hers. He really couldn''t believe it.

    "I''ll allow you to taste my meat patties. You sure you can digest it though?"

    Raelle looked him up and down, "Now that I''ve thought about it again, I really think you won''t taste good."

    Did he just get insulted for not being tasty? Zhai Yanjun really was at a loss for words right now. He honestly wondered how Shui Xian looked so happy around her?

    Clearing his throat, he asked, "By the way, what about Xian?"

    "He also isn''t around," answered Raelle patiently. "He has gone out of city for work."

    "When will hee back?"

    "That''s something uncertain for now."

    Zhai Yanjun frowned, "How irresponsible of him! You guys have only gotten married for what? A month? How can he leave at this time?"

    Raelle looked at his expressions. He really looked like he was mad at Shui Xian for doing that. Raelle found his behavior to be quite interesting right now.

    "It seems you and Xian are both quite emotional people," said Raelle.

    Zhai Yanjun was surprised to hear that, "Why would you say that? I never thought Xian and I have anything inmon. Even our interests are different."

    "I can''t say anything about your interests but your personalities are the same," was Raelle''s response. She wasn''t just saying it. She was certain about her observation. "You both value emotions a lot more than anything in life. Not only that, you both keep a cold and serious exterior to fool people which brings me to the conclusion that both of you have been hurt by someone to the point that you both started hiding your emotions."

    Zhai Yanjun was startled to hear her evaluation. He didn''t know think that Shui Xian had shared his personal matters with her. He knew Shui Xian well enough to have faith in him. This trust was the reason he never felt any hesitation in sharing everything with Shui Xian.

    But since Shui Xian didn''t say anything, it meant Raelle hade to this conclusion on her own.

    Zhai Yanjun was suddenly reminded of what he heard from Shui Xian, ''She sees everything. Nothing seems to stay hidden from her eyes.''

    At that time, Zhai Yanjun thought Shui Xian was exaggerating since he hade to like Raelle but now, he couldn''t deny Shui Xian''s words. Raelle really had keen senses. It was kind of scary if he was being honest.

    "I suddenly feel scared of you," Zhai Yanjun spoke out his mind. "I feel like if I spent a day with you, you might be able to read even my soul."

    "I have no interest in reading your soul," replied Raelle. "But since I''ve spent way too long studying humans, it''s be a habit now. If I offended you in any way, I apologize for that."

    Zhai Yanjun waved his hand hurriedly, "Oh, please don''t! If Xian found out I made his wife apologize to me, he''ll have my head on a tter."

    "My husband isn''t a devil," said Raelle. "However, I sure am one."

    Zhai Yanjun raised his brows at her remark and suddenly burst outughing.

    [1] ''Saozi'': Older brother''s wife/sister-inw

 Chapter 286 - Long-Lost Son

    If a person asked Zhai Yanjun whether he agreed with Raelle''s words or not, he''d definitely say he did. He did believe that she was a devil incarnate. For no other reason than the fact that he had an intuition. And soldiers like him who were trained for all sorts of dangerous situations actually had keen intuition.

    There was just something about her that made him believe that she was what she imed to be.

    ??

    Since it was already the time for lunch, Zhai Yanjun was also invited to join them. However, the one to invite him was actually Yue and of course, Mu Chenyan had no say in this decision. Mu Chenyan''s tyranny could work on anyone but Yue.

    "Why didn''t you dry your hair?" asked Raelle to Hyson who came down with his still a little damp hair. "Want to catch a cold?"

    "I won''t catch a cold," said Hyson. "I just couldn''t wait." He looked up at Mu Chenyan with sparkly eyes, "Yanyan, you''re the best!" He even gave her two thumbs up to show how pleased he was right now. How couldn''t he be pleased? Everything on this table had been made just for him! He gave a triumphant smile to Raelle, "See? Yanyan even knows what I like."

    "You listed out everything you wanted to eat after getting discharged from the hospital," said Raelle patiently and in an unhurried manner. "How could she not know what you were craving for?"

    Hyson gritted his teeth and looked at Mu Chenyan, "Why did you tell her that?"

    "I did not say anything," answered Mu Chenyan and she wasn''t lying either. She had indeed not said a single word about it to Raelle. But then again, she didn''t need to.

    "As if I don''t know you," responded Raelle. "I don''t need to hear it from anyone to know what''s cooking in that head of yours."

    Hyson held his head both of his hands asking, "Is my brain sending signals to you?"

    "I heard about heart signals, where did this brain signale from?" questioned Mu Chenyan when she looked at these two having a ''conversation'' in their own style. This particr style of conversation was exclusive to them. Quite unique to even Mu Chenyan who used to im she had seen all the exotic things in the world.

    "Her heart and mine can never be synced," said Hyson certainly. "And honestly speaking, it''s still up for debate whether her heart is real or someone exchanged it with a mechanical one when she was kidnapped. Because all these years, I''ve been leaning towards thetter possibility."

    Hyson earned a hit on his arm from his mother who sat beside him and said, ''Stop talking nonsense!''

    "Yue, your son is an expert when ites to talking nonsense," said Raelle. "You should get used to it by now."

    "Elle, don''t say that," Mu Chenyan also chimed in. "Our Fai is a cutie. Even if he doesn''t make sense for 99% of the time, we still love him."

    Hyson''s lips twitched when he heard that, he didn''t know whether tough or cry right now. It was quite a dilemma for him. He just shook his head and put his hands together saying, "Thanks for this sumptuous meal! I''ll eat it well!"

    Then he even closed his eyes for a brief moment. He appeared like he was praying in silence but Zhai Yanjun couldn''t be sure about that. This meal was really a different experience for him. He was somewhat feeling the same way as Shui Xian had felt when he first had a meal with these people. It wasforting, fun, lively, and somehow very rxing.

    Both of Zhai Yanjun''s grandparents had been schrly people who paid extra attention to etiquette and table manners. It was the same whether he had a meal with his paternal grandparents or his maternal grandparents. Even in the military, they talked about discipline. Although sometimes they had a boisterous time over meals it was never like this.

    There was a homely feeling around him that he seriouslycked in his life. And that''s why he found this atmosphere so different.

    Yue noticed Zhai Yanjun''s silence and made hand gestures that he couldn''t understand. So, Mu Chenyan took the initiative to be her interpreter as always. "She is saying you don''t have to pay attention to those two. Be at ease and start eating."

    Zhai Yanjun nodded his head and picked up his chopsticks.

    On the other hand, Hyson''s momentary silence was over as he looked at Raelle and picked up his chopsticks. As he picked up fried strips of chicken he showed it to her saying, "I feel so bad for you. You don''t even have a favorite food. Do you know what you''re deprived of in life?"

    "I know what I''m not deprived of in my life," answered Raelle.

    Hyson''s mind was telling him, don''t ask. But he still went against his mind and asked, "What?"

    "An annoying best friend," was Raelle''s response with a straight face.

    Hyson huffed at her and focused on eating. From time to time, Mu Chenyan would add things into Hyson''s bowl. She would do the same for Raelle as well. But since Raelle wasn''t picky at all, one could just put practically anything into her bowl and she''d eat it.

    While everyone was eating, Yue kept adding a few dishes into Zhai Yanjun''s bowl as well. And he''d silently take it with a smile and he even ate it all with relish. He was actually surprised to find that everything tasted so good. Every single thing that Yue picked out for him had a light taste that suited his pte perfectly.

    While Yue didn''t think anyone was paying attention since both Hyson and Raelle would never focus anything apart from their food once they began but she was certainly wrong. Because both these best friends seemed to have their eyes everywhere as always. How could her actions not be noticed by their all-seeing eyes?

    Raelle bit her chopsticks as she was thinking about something. As she always paid attention to the smallest of things, she pushed a te of beef chili dry in front of Zhai Yanjun saying, "You should try it, this is one of the dishes Yanyan is quite proud of."

    As Yue noticed it, she frowned and pushed the te back while Zhai Yanjun said, "Actually, I don''t like spicy things that much, and neither can I eat such spicy things."

    "Then I apologize for not knowing better," stated Raelle.

    Zhai Yanjun was actually taken aback by her response. It felt like she had apologized twice since he came here. He had heard she was conceited but it seemed that wasn''t the case here. She wouldn''t mind apologizing when she felt like she did something wrong. In fact, she didn''t feel any shame in apologizing either. It was surprising to him since girls from families like theirs often felt it a humiliation to apologize.

    Hyson leaned his head towards Raelle and asked, "Since you always know what''s on my mind, can you tell me what I am thinking?"

    "Why should I? Did you break up with your brain? Or your brain also got tired of your stupidity and ran away?"

    Hyson gave her a look, "No! I just want to hear about it from you."

    "He looks like my mother''s long-lost son," said Raelle without any hesitation. And the way she just read his mind, Hyson was left staring at her for a long while in silence.

    "And this is why I say you''re dangerous," was what Hyson uttered. "The way you can read my mind makes me feel ttered but also scared. I feel exposed before you."

    "Is there anything new about that?"

    "Not really," Hyson shook his head as well. There really was nothing new about any of it. He knew what she was capable of. She might not be a fortune teller but she certainly was a mind-reader. This was one of the reasons he was proud to have her as his best friend. It''d be hellish to stand against her. Good thing, they always stood on the same side.

    "And your thinking isn''t wrong either," added Raelle on her own initiative. "It does seem like Yue has a special ce for this young man in her heart. The way she looks at him is exactly how she looks at you."

    "Should I feel happy or sad that my mum found her long-lost son?" asked Hyson in confusion. He really didn''t know how he was supposed to feel right now.

    Jealous? No way!

    He was never a jealous person.

    However, he was curious. Curious to know what or who this young soldier was to his mother. There was no doubt there was a connection. He''d be an idiot if he couldn''t even notice that much. No matter how his mother tried to hide her obvious happiness, he was her son. He could see everything.

 Chapter 287 - Conceited Friends

    Zhai Yanjun had a pleasant time over lunch. Even though he couldn''tmunicate with Yue through words, it was as if he didn''t need words with her. With just one nce, she knew what he was looking for. And because of this, he didn''t even realize that he had eaten way more than he usually did.

    There were two reasons for this; one, he found the food to be extra delicious. Two, there was someone who wholeheartedly paid attention to him.

    ??

    But he wasn''t the only one who ate too much. Hyson was in no better condition. In fact, he ate even more than Zhai Yanjun. However, his reasons were different than Zhai Yanjun.

    He rubbed his tummy that was so full that he was having difficulties in even breathing. Raelle gave him a look, "Who asked you to torture yourself? Have you been starved for a century?"

    Hyson kept rubbing his tummy as he said, "How can I not eat? Do you know how much time Yanyan spent to make this all for me? Only by eating it all could I show how much respect I have for her."

    "Trying to please her, you have brought trouble on yourself," stated Raelle. "Let''s go on a walk. It''ll help with digestion. I''ll apany you."

    "Okay!" Hyson readily agreed and shouted, "Mum, Ellie, and I are going on a walk. We''ll be back in half an hour or so."

    After that, he snaked his arm around her neck and dragged her out of the house. Even if Raelle didn''t like this posture, she still didn''t push him away. Hyson had been putting his weight over her and yet she didn''tin regarding this.

    Of course, he was the only one who was allowed to take such liberties with her.

    As they took a walk in the back garden, Hyson brought up the topic they had been discussing over lunch, "How do you think my mum knows that soldier? She seems to be familiar with his taste as well."

    "I know," answered Raelle. "Since she had been avoiding the spicy things, I purposely offered that spicy beef chili dry to Zhai Yanjun. And just as I expected, Yue stopped me."

    "I noticed that," said Hyson. "Do you really think I don''t understand what you do? I can read your mind easily just like you can read mine. How can I not understand your purpose for doing it? Our Ellie would never do anything without a reason."

    "And this is why you''re my best friend," responded Raelle. "It''s easier to talk to you. I don''t have to exin myself."

    Hyson threw his head back andughed out. Indeed, she never had to exin herself to him. From the first time of knowing her, he had tried his best to understand her. Because he knew she didn''t like exining herself. Or it''d be better to say that she had difficulties exining herself. She would rather let herself be wronged than trying to exin herself to anyone.

    But she never had to face something like that with him around. Lately, even Shui Xian was able to understand her somewhat. However, it''d take Shui Xian to get the same understanding as Hyson did.

    "I have a conjecture," Raelle told him. Hyson raised his brow at her waiting for her to continue. "I think Zhai Yanjun is Yue''s nephew."

    "Nephew?" questioned Hyson as his expressions hardened.

    "Have you heard how Xian is rted to Yue?" asked Raelle.

    "I did," answered Hyson with a deep frown on his face.

    "Zhai Yanjun and Xian had been ymates in their childhood because their families had a rtion. In fact, I heard it was Xian''s mother, Song Xin''ai who was the maternal cousin of Zhai Yanjun''s mother."

    Hyson had an understanding look on his face.

    "So, he is my cousin?"

    "That''s the only possibility I have in mind for now," answered Raelle. "Why? You don''t like him just because he is rted to you by blood?"

    Hyson shook his head, "No way. I could see the warmth and sparkle in mum''s eyes when she looked at him. It''s obvious what he means to her. I can never bring myself to hate someone who is dear to my mum." He took a pause before asking, "What kind of a person do you think Zhai Yanjun is?"

    "He is another version of Xian," answered Raelle. "Just a little gloomier."

    "Huh?" Hyson was surprised to hear this.

    "They both have... What do you call it? Ah! A soft heart. Yes, they are both soft-hearted people who decided to build walls around themselves because someone hurt them badly." Raelle sorted her thoughts as she continued, "As for why I said that Zhai Yanjun is gloomier. I don''t think I need to exin it to you. I believe you''re quite familiar with the look in his eyes."

    Hyson pressed his lips together. "I suddenly find him quite interesting."

    Raelle looked at Hyson, "You already found him interesting from the moment you met him. Don''t use me as an excuse to say you have a good impression of him. In fact, even I''d say there is nothing toin about him."

    "Such a high evaluation from Raelle Xiang." Hyson continued to smile to himself softly when he said those words.

    "You can find your mum''s past through him," added Raelle.

    "But that was never something I wanted to do," answered Hyson. "I don''t need to tell you that."

    "Are you telling me that you aren''t desperate to know the reason why your mother can''t speak?" asked Raelle.

    Hyson was stumped for words. He was definitely desperate to know that. It was the only thing of the past he had an interest in. How could he not be interested in it? He wanted to know what reason forced his mother into desperation.

    "Say it once," started Raelle. "I''ll help you."

    "Even if I''m desperate to know about it, I can''t do it," said Hyson helplessly. "I don''t want to dig at my mum''s wounds. If she isn''t the one telling me about it, I don''t want to know about it." He shook his head to shake off this heavy mood and knocked her head, "I want ice cream."

    "Can''t you think of anything other than ice cream?" inquired Raelle. "Your brain is gonna freeze one day."

    "Earlier you said, I have no brain. So, I have no worries," answered Hyson shamelessly.

    "Usually you don''t agree with what I say," stated Raelle.

    "Nah! I only agree with you in life," said Hyson.

    Taking a walk did help Hyson with digestion a lot. He wasn''t feeling as ufortable as he did before. But he still didn''t want to go back inside. He had been locked up in the hospital for days. Now that got the chance to walk in the open air, how could he not find it rxing?

    "Let''s go inside," urged Raelle.

    "I don''t want to."

    "Do you want that long-lost son to snatch your mother already?"

    Hyson stared at Raelle, "If he is so capable then why not. I''ll let him try."

    "I think this is what people call being conceited," said Raelle.

    Hyson chuckled, "I am conceited. I have a conceited best friend. How can I not learn from her?"

    "I taught you to be conceited?" Raelle found it interesting.

    "Didn''t you?" retorted Hyson. "I am conceited. Because I have faith. No one can snatch my mum from me. Just like no one can snatch my best friend from me."

    "I can''t say anything about Yue but I certainly am not going anywhere," said Raelle. "If I said you''d be my best friend, I won''t have it any other way."

    Hyson''s eyes on her softened as he smiled. Eventually, Raelle did drag him inside the house. When Zhai Yanjun looked at the two of them, he couldn''t help staring intently at them. The rtionship between Hyson and Raelle intrigued him. He learned they were best friends but this friendship...

    This friendship was new to him. Unlike Shui Xian, Zhai Yanjun really never had friends. So, this pair of friends before his eyes looked really interesting to him. He had never felt the need to have friends. He had seen friends betraying each other, being jealous of each other, and even trying to kill each other. He knew no friendshipst forever.

    Even Shui Xian''s friends didn''t stay with him. Even though he used to brag about his friendship. But what happened? Those friends distanced themselves from him.

    However, the pair of friends before his eyes gave him a different feeling. It made him want to experience friendship. He really couldn''t understand why he was even feeling this way. Nothing seems extraordinary about them and yet they made anyone feel envious of what they had.

    For the first time in a long time, Zhai Yanjun was feeling envious of someone. And that person wasn''t really Raelle who was said to have the whole world. He was envious of Hyson instead. The guy who had a mother who dearly loved him and a best friend who stood by his side.

 Chapter 288 - First Love Is Dangerous

    Surprisingly, Grandfather Xiang and Shui Koshing came back earlier than expected. There was no other reason than the fact that they both felt like spending time home was far much worthwhile than chatting idly at the banquet held after the charity auction. They both had no interest in socializing.

    They both had retired from their respective fields for a while and left everything to the younger generation. However, there were still people who were anticipating making their acquaintance. It was a pity that they were all bound to be disappointed.

    ??

    When Grandfather Xiang came back, Hyson was the first one to jump around like a kid. He told him what he ate, what he did, and a lot of nonsense. And just as always, Grandfather Xiang patiently listened to Hyson''s chattering withoutining. In fact, he seemed to be enjoying it as always. There was nothing new about this scene.

    "Jun, I didn''t expect to see you here today," said Shui Koshing as he sat down with Zhai Yanjun.

    "Well, I didn''t expect it as well," muttered Zhai Yanjun to himself.

    "When did youe back?"

    "Justst night," answered Zhai Yanjun.

    "Then you could have taken a rest for the day."

    "I am resting," stated Zhai Yanjun. But he didn''t exin himself. This way of resting was probably quite novel to anyone. However, he didn''t think so. Because he felt likeing here today was better than going for therapy. It put him in such a good mood that he couldn''t control his smile from the moment he came here. No wonder, Master Xian had been smiling a lottely.

    Indeed, the people around you do have control over your emotions.

    After talking to Zhai Yanjun for a while, Shui Koshing stepped away. Meanwhile, Zhai Yanjun noticed how Shui Koshing seemed to be interacting with Yue. He couldn''t help frowning with a deep look in his eyes. He had a strong feeling since earlier that he knew Yue from somewhere and now seeing Shui Koshing''s familiarity with her, he felt like he was on the right track.

    Due to the ties between Zhai and Shui family, there wasn''t anyone in their circles who were connected in some way. Although he felt like his reasoning was far-fetched, he couldn''t help thinking along this track. His heart was telling him he was right.

    "You can stop looking, it won''t get you anywhere," he heard Raelle voice and snapped his head around to see her sittingnguidly on the other side.

    "Am I not allowed to look?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "Sure you''re allowed to do so but what''s the point?" retorted Raelle. "Just seeing won''t solve the doubts swirling in your eyes."

    Zhai Yanjun was taken aback by her words. And suddenlyughed softly as he shook his head, "If I knew you''re so interesting, I would have shown up for our blind date."

    "And do you think we would have gotten anywhere after that blind date?" asked Raelle as she straightened up.

    "Not romantically," answered Zhai Yanjun honestly. "But we could have be friends."

    "Friends?" repeated Raelle as she stared at him. "Friendship with me is tiresome."

    "I can already tell," he told her. "And that''s why I''m surprised that you have a best friend who has been around you for years."

    "There is nothing surprising about that," said Raelle as if she didn''t think it was anything worthy of mentioning.

    "Your friendship is quite precious," he suddenly spoke out his mind after observing them for hours. "Precious enough to make someone envious."

    Raelle''s finger tapped on her knee as she told him, "Do you think your friendship with Xian isn''t precious enough?"

    Zhai Yanjun lowered his eyes, "He and I have never been friends actually. Maybe we were friends when we were young. There is a sh between his personality and mine. He manages to make anyone like him almost instantly but I always had troublemunicating with people. In a way, you can say he was an extrovert and I was the introvert. When he made new friends, he always took me with him but I wasn''tfortable with anyone else. So, I distanced myself." He looked up at her andughed at himself, "I self-sabotaged myself, didn''t I?"

    Raelle took a moment to ask, "What is friendship to you, Mr. Soldier?"

    Zhai Yanjun shrugged his shoulders, "I never really thought about it because before today I didn''t think friendship was anything special. But seeing you and Hyson made me realize that I was actually wrong. So, perhaps to me, the definition of friendship is your rtionship with him."

    "Do you want to know what''s between me and Hyson?"

    Zhai Yanjun leaned over as he anticipated her answer.

    "Mutual trust, mutual support, and understanding," answered Raelle. "At the end of the day, our friendship isn''t that different from others. You''re willing to stand up for Xian when he needs you the most just like he is willing to stand up for you when you need him the most. Isn''t that all there is to friendship? I wonder why you both are reluctant to ept this truth?"

    Zhai Yanjun didn''t know how to react to her words. Her words reminded him of what his grandma told him. Indeed, he and Xian were friends who were just unwilling to ept this fact.

    "What are you guys talking about?" asked Grandfather Xiang when his attention finally shifted from Hyson who was still telling him stories.

    "Nothing special," answered Zhai Yanjun. "Oh, Granduncle, I brought gifts. Let me bring it in."

    Saying that he ran out of the house and brought gifts from his car.

    "Since I came to apologize, I couldn''te empty-handed, or else my grandma would have grilled me alive," said Zhai Yanjun jokingly as he ced the gifts on the coffee table.

    "It''s a good thing you only took out your gifts now or else, Yanyan would have been the one to grill you," stated Hyson as he chuckled looking at Mu Chenyan who was silently sipping tea.

    Although Mu Chenyan had a bad attitude towards Zhai Yanjun, seeing how patient and nice he had been with Yue, she couldn''t help re-evaluating him. It wasn''t nice to sentence someone to death over one mistake. She was a benevolent person, she would give him another chance to redeem himself.

    Even though all that was going through her mind, she didn''t show a single thing on her face.

    Zhai Yanjun first gave a small rectangr box to Grandfather Xiang, then he gave a slightly bigger box to Mu Chenyan. As for Raelle, her gift box was longer than the others. Grandfather Xiang''s gift was a precious jade. Grandfather Xiang raised his brow at the sight of this gift before he looked at Zhai Yanjun, "This is good stuff."

    "As long as you like it," said Zhai Yanjun with a big smile on his face. He seemed like he was currying favor right now shamelessly but he didn''t care how his image copsed before him. He deeply admired Grandfather Xiang, after all.

    Mu Chenyan nonchntly opened the box in her hand and then her eyes widened in surprise. She was so surprised that she even stood up instantly. "No way!" her lips parted but only these two words came out of her mouth.

    "This gift is quite aligned with Yanyan''s taste," said Hyson. "Congrattions! Your collection onlycks thest one now."

    Mu Chenyan picked up the dagger in her hand with excitement glittering in her eyes. Anyone could see that her emotions were in disarray right now. She couldn''t believe what she was seeing.

    Her finger traced the shiny and sharp de of the dagger. The de was so sharp that her fingertip got shed but even the blood didn''t faze her excitement. If anything, it only intensified it. There was a dragon design carved at the hilt of the dagger. An expert in the field of antiques could only tell how valuable this centuries-old dagger in her hand was. But when it came to things like that, Mu Chenyan was the best expert herself!

    Without a doubt, she knew this was an original!

    She never thought she''de across this dagger like this. She looked up at Zhai Yanjun who seemed to be waiting for her to say anything. Mu Chenyan pursed her lips before saying, "Thank you for this! But it must be very expensive. So, I can''t take it without paying you for it."

    Zhai Yanjun waved his hand saying, "There is no need for that. That just happened to be collecting dust in my maternal grandfather''s antique collection. He doesn''t even appreciate it. So, I thought this should belong to someone who truly had a passion and who knew what treasure this is."

    Mu Chenyan was still hesitant to take it.

    "Chenyan," Grandfather Xiang called out.

    "Yes, Elder Xiang?"

    "If you still feel ufortable, you can send something from our family''s collection as a thank you gift. There is no need to feel burdened."

    Mu Chenyan was instantly enlightened, "That''s right! That''s the best solution. Why didn''t I think about it?"

    "They say first love makes you lose your senses," said Hyson. "Seeing your love for daggers, it''s quite obvious that the first love is dangerous."

 Chapter 289 - Nothing More To Talk

    Lastly, it was Raelle''s turn to open the wooden box in her hand. Even the wooden box had an intricate design. Zhai Yanjun looked at her with anticipation in his eyes. Clearly, he was waiting for her to open it but Raelle had just ced the wooden box aside with no intention of opening it here.

    "Ellie, he wants you to open the gift," reminded Hyson with a smile lingering on his lips.

    ??

    "I''ll open itter on," answered Raelle.

    "Why don''t you check it now?" suggested Zhai Yanjun. "See if you like it and if you don''t, I''ll get something else for you." He took a pause before adding, "Actually, it was easy to know what Granduncle Xiang or Miss Mu would like but it''s different in your case. No matter how I tried, I couldn''t find out anything about what you''d like." He continued to look at her cautiously as he went on, "In fact, I even asked Xian about this. He also said it''s hard to say what you''ll like."

    Raelle turned to Hyson, "Once you give away a gift, you can change it if the other person doesn''t like it? I didn''t know there is such a rule."

    Hyson''s smile deepened, "There are no rules when you give someone a gift."

    "Still, if he wants you to see it, you should," added Mu Chenyan.

    "Alright." Raelle agreed readily when Mu Chenyan said it. She opened the box and a scroll came into her view. She picked it up and opened it. A beautiful Chinese traditional painting came into her view.

    The painting felt surreal with how alive it looked. Yes, alive! Ady stood under a peach blossom tree with her gown flowing as if the gentle wind was tickling her. The peach blossom flower lied under her feet and some petals were driftingzily.

    "Do you like it?" asked Zhai Yanjun apprehensively.

    "She does," answered Hyson when Raelle didn''t speak up. "You can see it on her face." Zhai Yanjun looked at her ever so expressionless face and frowned since he couldn''t see anything. Hyson shook his head saying, "It seems you can''t see it." He tugged Raelle''s arm, "You should say something."

    Raelle finally moved her eyes away from the painting in front of her and shifted her eyes towards Zhai Yanjun. "Thank you! I like it."

    "Really?" Zhai Yanjun asked in obvious excitement.

    Raelle nodded her head, "I do... But," she took a pause and added, "This is me. Am I right?"

    Zhai Yanjun''s smile deepened as he nodded his head vigorously, "That''s right. My grandma thoroughly fell for how beautiful you are. And she couldn''t help painting this with her own hands. She''ll be very happy to know that you like it."

    Raelle didn''t ask any further. She already knew that Zhai Yanjun''s paternal grandmother was a well-known traditional painter. But she had never had a chance to see her work before.

    "Say, thank you to your grandmother for this," said Raelle.

    "I will," answered Zhai Yanjun.

    Since Zhai Yanjun had promised his grandparents that he''d have dinner with them, he didn''t stay for dinner even though Raelle asked him to. He left right when the sun was about to set. Thinking of something, he called Shui Xian''s number and focused on driving. The phone was attached to his car, so he didn''t have to worry about being distracted.

    As soon as the call connected he said, "You''re a lucky bastard!"

    Shui Xian was surprised to hear Zhai Yanjun talking like this. "I also think so," he replied cheekily. "But I wonder what made you say this?"

    "I''m saying it because of your wife," borated Zhai Yanjun. "You really got lucky." He shook his head saying, "I guess grandpa is right. Setbacks are there to push us on to the right track."

    Shui Xian leaned back in his chair and said, "You''re right. I really got lucky."

    "Huh! It''s only because of your father. Or else someone like her might not even spare you a second nce."

    "Well, at least, my father became the cupid for us." Shui Xian had no shame in epting that he only managed to marry his wife because of his father. "By the way, howe you''re talking so highly of my wife all of a sudden? You don''t even know her for that long."

    "You don''t know her for that long either," retorted Zhai Yanjun.

    "There is no need to be so bitter just because you failed to get lucky."

    Zhai Yanjun snorted, "I wasn''t gonna be the lucky one. After all, I''m not her type."

    "Oh, so I am her type?"

    "No way," shot back Zhai Yanjun. "You aren''t her type either. You just got lucky!"

    Shui Xian couldn''t help chuckling at her words, "Yanjun, why did you really call me?"

    "To tell you that I had a very good day," answered Zhai Yanjun.

    "That''s it?" inquired Shui Xian with raised brows.

    "Yes! That''s it," was Zhai Yanjun''s answer.

    "I can''t seem to understand you today," said Shui Xian truthfully. "But I can feel that you''re in an exceptional mood."

    Zhai Yanjun smiled when he heard that, "I am in a good mood. And I wanted to share it with you. Someone just reminded me that I shouldn''t just share my bad times with a friend but sometimes, I should also share the happy things."

    "Woah! You''re sounding profound,"mented Shui Xian. "Got some enlightenment?"

    "You can say that," said Zhai Yanjun mysteriously.

    Just talking like this, Zhai Yanjun already reached the gate of his grandparents'' ce. He wasn''t just saying it. He really was in a good mood. It was even hard to describe what he was feeling. He just knew he felt a warmth like never before.

    Spinning the car key around his index finger, he hurried inside the house but his smile stiffened when his eyes noticed the person waiting for him inside.

    An elegantdy was sipping tea as she sat on the couch. There was an arrogance in her every gesture that was hard to ignore. Noticing Zhai Yanjun, she lifted her eyes but turned back.

    Seeing this attitude, Zhai Yanjun didn''t bother greeting and stepped away to go to his room when her voice from behind, "Did you learn no manners?"

    Zhai Yanjun stopped and turned to face her as he replied, "No, I didn''t. My mother was too busy attending parties. She didn''t have time to teach me manners."

    The woman''s eyes zed with anger when she heard him say that. She almost mmed the cup on the table as she stood up to face him, "It seems your wings have hardened now."

    "I don''t have time for small talk here," said Zhai Yanjun.

    "I''m here to see you since you don''t even bothering to see your mother."

    "You certainly didn''te here because you missed your son," retorted Zhai Yanjun. He knew his mother well enough to know that she won''te to him unless she needed something. She was just that kind of a mother. She didn''te to see him for thest two years but suddenly thought of her son? Obviously, she had her own intentions for being here.

    "Sit down," instructed Yue Lan in a stern voice. She definitely wasn''t pleased with the way her son was talking to her but she didn''t lose her temper at this moment. She decided to use the soft tactics for now.

    Zhai Yanjun took a seat impatiently, "Don''t beat around the bush and get to the point."

    "Did your father tell you that he is thinking of divorce?" asked Yue Lan as she looked at her son.

    "Of course, I know," answered Zhai Yanjun. "Took him long enough to take this decision."

    Yue Lan narrowed her eyes at his words, "Talk to him about it. Tell him you don''t want this."

    Zhai Yanjun scoffed, "How old am I? Do you really think I''ll cry just because my parents are getting a divorce?"

    Yue Lan took a deep breath, "I need you to help me. I want to take my dad''s position in the office. My divorce will have an impact during the elections."

    "So?"

    "If I be an official, it''s beneficial to you as well."

    "I never needed any help from you," said Zhai Yanjun. "You never even managed to be a mother to me, and now you want to be of some help? Do I look like I need your help?"

    "Don''t be so hasty with your decision," said Yue Lan. "Think about it carefully."

    "If you had said that you want to save this marriage because you care," began Zhai Yanjun. "I''d have agreed to talk to my father. But you are just thinking about your benefits as always. Whether you get a divorce or not is none of my concern. Stop disturbing my life. I''ve had enough with your marriage issues." He stood up to leave and said, "It''s better if you leave now. I have nothing more to talk to you."

 Chapter 290 - Strange Hobbies

    Since Zhai Yanjun didn''t listen to her Yue Lan huffed in anger and left. But she still had a calcting glint in her eyes. So what if her son wasn''t willing to listen to her? She had other ways to make him bow down before her wishes! He''d never be able to escape.

    In all honesty, even Zhai Yanjun knew what his mother was gonna do now that he didn''t even try to keep up the pretense of cordiality. But he didn''t care. He was too old to fall for her tricks.

    ??

    As he sat down with his grandparents to eat, he didn''t even lift his head up. Seeing him acting like this, Grandmother Zhai''s brows knitted. Since they didn''t have the habit of talking during the meals, she stayed quiet for now. But when they were done and Zhai Yanjun was about to retire for the day, she called out,

    "Junjun..."

    Zhai Yanjun looked at his grandmother and asked, "Yes?"

    "About your mother''s visit today," began Grandmother Zhai trying to sound as cautious as she could.

    But Zhai Yanjun didn''t let her continue, "Grandma, don''t. I don''t wish to talk about her. I''m already angry that you allowed her to enter this house."

    Grandmother Zhai smiled sadly, "I have no right to stop her. She is still the legal wife of my son. And even if I ignore that fact, I can''t ignore the fact that she is your mother."

    Zhai Yanjun scoffed, "Mother? Does she even know what a mother really is? She couldn''t even give respect to her own mother to this day. How could she be a good mother to me?"

    "But divorce at this age is not good," spoke up Grandmother Zhai. "It might affect your marriage."

    "I don''t care," retorted Zhai Yanjun. "It''s already toote. Now, I want this marriage to end. I''m tired now."

    "As I said, even if they get a divorce, she''ll still be your mother," said Grandmother Zhai helplessly.

    "She lost the right to be my mother on the day she left me to die!" He stood up and concluded, "I don''t wish to discuss this again. I am only home for two days, don''t make me change my decision."

    This threat worked perfectly well on Grandmother Zhai who instantly shut her mouth. Her grandson just came back, how could she let him so soon? She barely got two days to spend with him.

    Grandfather Zhai had been quiet all this while. He silently ced his hand over his wife''s hand on the table and patted it tofort her. "You can''t change his hatred for her," he reminded her softly. "The wounds on his heart are too deep. The most painful thing is the fact that the one to leave those wounds was his own mother. The one who was supposed to protect him hurt him the most. Don''t forget the reason why his personality turned out to be so taciturn."

    The reminder of that, left Grandmother Zhai feeling worse. Her eyes reddened as she thought of it. She felt like she shouldn''t have talked about this with her grandson. She actually ended up poking at his wounds.

    Zhai Yanjun was in a really bad mood when he went upstairs to his room. Recalling his mother''s face made his anger go up a notch. But suddenly, he stopped. Something caught his attention and he frowned. Immediately, he ran downstairs surprising both his grandparents.

    "What''s wrong, Junjun? Do you need anything?" asked Grandmother Zhai in a soft voice.

    "Grandma, my mother had a sister, right?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    Grandmother Zhai was taken aback. Not knowing where this thought came up from but she nodded her head, "Yes, she has a younger sister. Why are you asking?"

    Zhai Yanjun''s eyes brightened when he heard that. He knew he had some connection with Yue whom he met at Xiang Manor. But until heid his eyes on his mother, he couldn''t think of any connection.

    "Where is she?" he asked.

    "That... We don''t know," answered Grandmother Zhai honestly. "She had... left the family for years now. So we really don''t know anything about her." She tactfully changed her wording and instead of telling him that she was thrown out of the family, she decided to say she left on her own.

    "Was her name Yue Yue?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "Yes," nodded Grandmother Zhai.

    Zhai Yanjun had heard both Shui Koshing and Mu Chenyan calling her name earlier in the day. At that time, he felt he heard the name before but didn''t think much about it.

    ...

    On the other hand, Mu Chenyan was caressing the dagger she received today like it was a precious child. Yue was rolling her eyes at how Mu Chenyan was acting like a lovesick fool. Seriously! This woman''s hobbies were questionable. Who collected antique daggers? Yue really had no words to describe her.

    Noticing the dirty look in Yue''s eyes which were directed at her, Mu Chenyan said, "Yue, you must be thinking I''m a fool?" Yue didn''t even hide it and nodded her head inly. "I know it''s a strange hobby but I can''t help it." She smiled gently as she gazed at the dagger and added, "Do you know this dagger is called Azure Dragon? It''s been passed down to fifteen generations of Emperors. It''s a real treasure. Now, I only have to find its pair; the Phoenix dagger that belonged to the Empresses. Then my collection will beplete."

    Yue raised her brows when she learned the history of the dagger but couldn''t help saying, ''Since it belonged to am Emperor, have you thought about how much blood is on its de? Have you thought about how many lives it had taken?''

    Mu Chenyan shrugged her shoulders, "Since it belongs to the era of blood, it''s only right it''ll taste some blood. It''s no big deal."

    ''Such things carry the resentment of the people who died with its de. It''s not good to keep such ominous things in the house.''

    Mu Chenyanughed out, "Yue, you''re really funny sometimes." She shook her head helplessly, "Do you know that the whole Xiang n has been dyed with the blood of thousands? They fought on battlefields, it''s only right that the resentment of ghosts would follow them. But living has to go on living." She patted Yue''s shoulder saying, "Stop thinking about such things. Just a little resentment of a ghost won''t hurt me."

    Yue red at her acting so nonchntly. Since her family believed in such superstitious things. They would even hold important events on auspicious dates to avoid trouble so she was still not used to how nonchnt Mu Chenyan was about such things. She didn''t believe in anything. In a way, she was like Raelle who would only believe in proven facts.

    Mu Chenyan ced the dagger in her collection carefully before she said, "Next time, have some control over your emotions." Yue lifted her brows at her quizzically. "Your emotions were written all over your face when you saw Zhai Yanjun today. If I can notice, do you think no one else did?"

    Yue pursed her lips. She really lost control over her emotions since the one before her was Zhai Yanjun whom she loved dearly. Seeing how the little boy in her memory had grown up so much, she couldn''t keep her emotions in check.

    ''I don''t think Fai would have noticed,'' she told Mu Chenyan.

    Mu Chenyanughed at her, "You either don''t know your son or you really underestimate him. If he was so naive as you believe him to be, then he wouldn''t have been able to befriend my Elle."

    ''You really think he noticed something?'' asked Yue in apprehension.

    "Of course, he did," answered Mu Chenyan. "But don''t worry. He won''t question you about it. As you know, he is an understanding person. He''d always keep things to himself rather than worrying you."

    Yue couldn''t help feeling sadder when she heard that. She of course hated that habit of her son''s where he always wanted to keep her away from worries. But it couldn''t be fixed at this point.

    ''What should I tell him?'' she asked. ''Should I tell him the truth?''

    "Can you even lie to him?" questioned Mu Chenyan. "The only reason you have been able to keep secret from him is that he never asked you anything. Once he did, you won''t be able to hide anything."

    ''But I don''t think he''ll ask,'' Yue looked exasperated.

    "That even I know," answered Mu Chenyan. "So, stop thinking about it. Some secrets can''t be kept for life. With time, he''ll eventually learn everything he is supposed to know. Even if he doesn''t want to know, time will disclose everything in front of his eyes."

    Yue lowered her eyes and didn''t say anything. It was true that some secrets couldn''t be kept for life. Not like she wanted to keep any secrets from her son. It was just that her son repeatedly refused to learn anything about those secrets which left her in a difficult position.

 Chapter 291 - My Twins

    "Is she reallying?" inquired Soren as he gazed at Cloe who was leaning against the door and wasn''t even trying to offer any help.

    "I told you already that Chief wille," answered Cloe as she rolled her eyes at this friend of hers. For some reason, he found it hard to believe that Raelle agreed to this meeting so easily. "If it brings her profit, she''ll definitely have a look."

    ??

    "You speak as if Raelle Xiang is a money-grubber. Does she evenck money?" Soren joked as he disyed his knife skills by chopping the onions in a fluid motion.

    It looked pleasing to the eye. It even made Cloe feel a little jealous. She also cooked, howe she looked like she didn''t know what she was doing while he looked like everything was right under his control? Not only that, it was a delight to just watch him work in the kitchen. She could only mentally tsked at the situation thinking his wife hit a jackpot. No wonder his wife was so eager to get married when he had only graduated from university back then. She already must have seen that someone might snatch him away from her.

    "She doesn''tck money. Only her family inheritance is enough to make her live a life of ease. But as she always says, there is no harm in having more money. After all, there are no set rules about how much money you can have, right?"

    Soren shook his head when he listened to Cloe, "That sounds so much like her." Then he gave her a look, "Are you just gonna stand there? How about you help me a little here?"

    Cloe raised her hands to make her stance clear, "Don''t even think about it. My Chief has taught me well. I don''t do freebor anymore."

    Soren gaped at her in disbelief and tsked, "You used to be such a good girl. It seems Raelle''spany really turned you into a profiteer."

    Cloe shrugged her shoulders, "What I am today, all the credit goes to her. So, even if I get the urge to curse her sometimes, I still very much respect her. And more than that, I admire her. You have no idea what she is capable of doing. I was a straight-A student and was already quite proud of that. But being with Raelle made me realize that the world is a bigger ce and the people have unbelievable talent in this big world."

    "If I didn''t know any better, I''d assume, you''ve fallen for Raelle," said Soren with a sly smile on his face.

    "If you can have a crush on her, why can''t I?" retorted Cloe straightforwardly.

    Soren was choked by her words, "Will you please stop bringing that up? If my wife heard it, I''ll be in serious trouble."

    "Aren''t you a little too scared of your dear wifey?" asked Cloe. She had noticed how cautious he always seemed whenever he talked about his wife.

    "It''s because..." he paused unnaturally and gazed at her deeply before he shook his head. "Let''s drop it here. You won''t really get it even if I said it." He poured some oil in the pan and recalled something, "Hey, have you thought about my suggestion fromst time?"

    "About what?"

    "About the blind date with my wife''s brother," answered Soren. "How can you even forget about that? Have you started taking your life that easily?"

    Cloe smiled a bit sadly as she replied, "To be honest, I haven''t thought about my life in a long time now. But I did ponder over what you saidst time. I do need to get out of my little bubble. I should begin again at some point in my life so why not now?" She took a brief pause and added, "And as Raelle Xiang always says, if you can do it now, why bother leaving toter?"

    "So, you agree to the blind date?" this was the point that Soren was focusing on.

    Cloe nodded her head, "Yes. Since you think so highly of your wife''s brother, I think I can give him a chance."

    "Awesome! That''s great news!" announced Soren almost looking like a kid who was excited over getting his favorite toy. Cloe really couldn''t tell why he looked so happy about it.

    "Soren, why are you so happy?" she couldn''t help asking him in a straightforward manner.

    "How can I not be?" retorted Soren. "You are a dear friend to me. I have long been worried about you wasting your life because of your ex or your family. So, you can''t possibly imagine how d I am that you agreed to give yourself another chance."

    Cloe felt his happiness was intoxicating which made her smile as well. It felt good to know that someone genuinely cared about your happiness. And this feeling was really precious to Cloe.

    "Thank you!" said Cloe.

    Soren frowned at her, "For what exactly?"

    "For taking time out of your busy life to worry about me," answered Cloe with a yful smile.

    "Silly girl! I''ve always been worried about you," he told her sincerely. "And if there is anyone I am most confident in, that person has to be my wife''s brother. I really believe you will like him."

    "If you say so," echoed Cloe. "By the way, what''s his name?"

    "His name is Cui Xukun. He is 29 and he is a Corporatewyer," told Soren.

    "Did you marry into awyers family?" inquired Cloe. "I remember your wife is also awyer."

    Soren nodded in agreement, "Yes, my wide is an entertainmentwyer."

    "Is it a family business?" asked Cloe as she raised her brow.

    Soren chuckled and said, "You''re spot on with that. But both siblings chose their own careers. It wasn''t because their parents wanted them to inherit the firm or anything." He thought of something and asked, "Do you want to see a picture of him?"

    "Do you have it?"

    "No, I don''t have it but I can just ask him to send me one," said Soren as if it was no big deal at all. And he truly believed it wasn''t a big deal.

    "Forget it," responded Cloe after thinking about it carefully. "I don''t trust photos. You can only learn about a person after meeting him face-to-face."

    "Well, that''s also true," agreed Soren. "Then I''ll ask him when he has time. I''ll arrange everything responsibly, you just have to show up."

    Cloe nodded her head and went out to explore his house. She soon came back and asked, "Don''t you have two kids? Why can''t I see them?"

    "They are staying with their mom these days," said Soren.

    "Have you separated from your wife?" asked Cloe curiously.

    Soren red at her, "Don''t jinx my happy married life. It''s just that whenever my wife takes on a difficult case, she leaves me alone saying that I am a distraction who doesn''t let her work." He sighed out heavily, "And I can''t even argue when ites to giving her some personal space."

    "Wow! You''re a good husband, Soren!" praised Cloe wholeheartedly. "I never thought you''d be one but you really are."

    "Even spending years with Raelle didn''t teach you that you shouldn''t judge a book by its cover?" retorted Soren. "People say Raelle Xiang is a cold, heartless, and difficult person. Although all that is true, don''t forget those are not the only defining qualities of hers. Her keen observation. Her way of caring about the people who mattered in her life. Her way of keeping everything in her life bnced. All of these things make her seem a lot more human than a lot of humans I have met in the corporate world. She is an honest person. A principled person. It''s a rare quality in the times we live in."

    "And then you say I always talk about Chief," said Cloe as she smirked at him. But she couldn''t help agreeing with every single word he just said about Raelle. If she wasn''t like that, Cloe would have never been able to spend so many years with Raelle infort. Now, even Raelle''s expressionless face was a lot morefortable to her than most people''s calcting smiles. In a way, Raelle was like a mirror that only reflected reality. There were no shades of deceit on her.

    As Soren covered the pan with the ss lid, he wiped his hands on his apron and rummaged out his phone from his apron''s pocket saying, "Come here, I''ll show you, my twins. They are so cute. They look just like me."

    Cloe raised her brows at this brag. He was acting like a typical father who wanted to show off his kids before his friends but Cloe couldn''t even say anything to him for this. At this moment, she found him to be quite foolish as well. A man who always had his emotions in check was acting like this because he wanted to show off his kids.

 Chapter 292 - Random Skills

    As Soren rushed to show her the photo of his twins, the doorbell rang. And before Cloe''s eyes could fall on his phone''s screen, he pulled it back asking, "Do you think she is here?"

    Cloe knocked the back of his neck and shook her head, "Sometimes you really act like an idiot!"

    ??

    Soren rubbed his sore neck and red at her, "No wonder I have a friend like you."

    "Sir, you have guests," announced the maid as she came to inform Soren.

    "Take them to the living room," said Soren but even before the maid could leave, both Raelle and Hyson had walked up to the kitchen to see him. "What are you doing here? Just sit in the living room."

    "I''m here to see you, why should I sit there when you''re here?" retorted Raelle.

    "No one can treasure their time as you do," retorted Soren. "But I''m telling you, I''m not talking any business in here!"

    "Something''s burning," came Cloe''s voice from behind, and Soren was startled before he ran over to the stove.

    Soon, he looked up at Cloe with a hard look, "Are you trying to y me here?"

    Cloe shrugged her shoulders, "Who told you to annoy my Chief?"

    Hyson leaned over to Raelle saying, "They seem close."

    "I have eyes," reminded Raelle.

    "Oh, you do?" Hyson''s voice raised as if he was surprised to know such shocking news.

    "Yes, I do," she answered.

    "Then how haven''t you see my feelings for you all these years?" he pretended to wipe his non-existent tears.

    "Perhaps because your feelings are as non-existent as your tears right now," said Raelle.

    Soren put his fist before his lips and coughed to hide his smile that was threatening to bloom. He couldn''t help it. He had never seen Raelle Xiang arguing with someone in such a petty way. It was truly an eye-opener.

    "Chief, look at Soren," Cloe said to Raelle. "A man who can cook is extra handsome. Don''t you think he looks dashing right now?"

    "I''ll let you know whether a man looks handsome while cooking or not once I see my husband cook," replied Raelle. "Until then I''ll keep my opinion to myself."

    Cloe''s lips twitched at her reply.

    Hysonughed out as he gave Cloe a sympathetic nce saying, "Drop it, sis! In her category of handsome men, only her husband exists now. As you know, she is extremely loyal."

    Cloe sighed out, "But I never thought she would even refuse to acknowledge others'' beauty."

    "It''s not that she isn''t acknowledging it, it''s just that in her mind Xian Ge is at the top." He took a brief pause to add, "By now you should know that once her brain registers that something is beautiful, nothing else can take its ce. Even if that thing is prettier than the former one."

    Cloe looked at Raelle who was standing outside the kitchen door and didn''t even bother taking a step inside as if the air inside might stifle her or something. "Chief, you have my respect. You''re really unique. I really want to peek inside your head to see how it works."

    "As if that''s an easy task," added Hyson.

    Soren called his maid and said, "Serve the refreshments and take over here. This stubborn girl isn''t gonna move unless I move." With that, he directed everyone towards the living room.

    "You''re nning to continue wearing that?" Hyson pointed at his apron which actually had a rabbit design making it seem cute and quite girly.

    Soren scratched his head and took off the apron telling him, "I actually forgot." Then he extended his hand towards Hyson, "You must be Hyson. I have heard a lot about you. So, even though it''s my first time meeting you in person I feel like I''ve known you for years."

    Hyson looked at his hand for a while before he extended his own to shake it, "I didn''t think Miss Sora would talk so much about me."

    Soren shook his head, "It''s not Sora. It''s my daughter who talks about you."

    "Your daughter?" repeated Hyson as he gave him a once over again. "You look quite young to me."

    Soren didn''t exin about his age but he continued, "My daughter is six and she is also a huge fan of yours. Since the first time she saw you on tv, she''s been talking about you a lot."

    Hyson''s eyes again fell on the cute apron that Soren had taken off and it suddenly struck him why he''d be willing to wearing such a thing. It seems someone really loved his daughter.

    "Last year, your group held a concert in the city but my wife had taken kids out of the country at that time. When Xena learned that she missed seeing her favorite Gege on stage, she cried for a whole day and night. I bought her the new merch of yours to stop her from shedding any more tears."

    Hyson was quite surprised to know that he actually had a young fan like that. For a moment, he didn''t know what to say.

    "Isn''t she just six?" asked Raelle from the side.

    "Yes, she is," answered Soren.

    "Then how did she get so many tears to shed?" asked Raelle as if she was seriously curious about this fact. She was honestly thinking about such a small girl managed to keep producing tears for one day and night without getting herself drained out of energy or tears?

    Hyson gave Raelle a look and punched her arm, "You really know how to ruin a moment!"

    "But I just asked a logical question," retorted Raelle.

    "And no one needs those logics here," responded Hyson. Then he turned to Soren, "I''m ttered to know that your daughter thinks so highly of me. But don''t you think she is too young to get into this fan culture?"

    Soren was taken aback for a moment and suddenly chuckled, "You''re really Raelle Xiang''s best friend."

    Hyson''s brows knitted up in confusion. Did he say something wrong? A six-year-old was indeed too young for this toxic ce called fandom! What if those toxic fans tainted her innocent mind?

    Seeing his genuine worry that was clearly reflected on Hyson''s face, Soren was even more amused. "I think my daughter made the right decision to follow an idol like you."

    "Huh?" Hyson was dumbfounded and had no way to respond.

    "Nothing," said Soren and stood up. "Can I take a picture with you? I''d like to show off before my daughter for once."

    Hyson rubbed his nape and agreed. "I don''t mind at all."

    Then Soren passed the phone to Cloe to take a photo. When she did, Hyson took the phone to check it and frowned, "I usually don''t care about how I look but do you have to make me look so fat? I even lost weight in the hospital!"

    "You gained even more after getting out of the hospital," came Raelle''s voice.

    Hyson gave her a look and hooked his finger, "Get up ande here."

    Raelle followed his instructions and went up to him shocking Soren even more. Hyson put the phone in her hand saying, "Take a photo. Make me look nice."

    Raelle took the phone and got ready to take pictures, "Are you feeling cold, Hyson?"

    "No, why?"

    "Because you''re standing beside an ice block," said Raelle.

    Soren narrowed his eyes at her for calling him an ice block.

    "I know I''m pretty stop admiring me and smile a little," said Raelle. "You''re ruining the whole atmosphere of the photo."

    Soren could only roll his eyes and follow her instructions. Raelle didn''t just take one picture but she continued to move them around to get a better light. Get a different pose. Get an even tone. If she was gonna take a photo, everything had to be perfect, no?

    After all, Raelle Xiang always did things in an exceptional way.

    When she was done, she tossed the phone to Soren and sat down leisurely again, reading emails on her own phone. Hyson also followed suit and didn''t even check the photos this time. It showed how much faith he had in his best friend''s skills. He didn''t have to look to know that everything was perfect!

    Meanwhile, Soren was looking through the photos on his phone while Cloe also leaned over to see. Each photo looked like it was taken with a professional camera and also by a professional. Cloe had aplicated look in her eyes as she looked at Raelle, "Chief, when did you learn photography?"

    "Books," answered Raelle inly.

    Cloe almost dropped down. "Can''t you stop reading random books? What''s the point of reading about photography?"

    "How will I capture Hyson''s perfect photos if I don''t even have the skills?" retorted Raelle.

    Cloe was stumped for words while Hyson looked at her proudly. Of course, he was the main reason Raelle had read those books. How could he not be proud about it?

 Chapter 293 - Dictate My Life

    Cloe observed Hyson as if she was looking at him for the first time. She had already figured out that Hyson was always conceited when he talked about his best friend. She wasn''t surprised to see his proud expression but she seemed to have a whole new understanding about these two best friends.

    She sighed out, "I feel like Hyson, you''re the hidden Big Boss around here." Hyson smiled as his brow quirked up yfully. He didn''t say anything as if he was silently agreeing with those words.

    ??

    Seeing Hyson''s pleased look, Raelle asked, "Feeling happy?"

    Hyson nodded his head vigorously, "Definitely!"

    Raelle didn''t continue as she let him be. As long as he was happy why did anything else matter? She never even cared about her own image in others'' eyes. So what if everyone thought she was dancing on Hyson''s fingers?

    She turned her attention to Soren, "Shall we?"

    Even with those two words, Soren knew she wanted to get over with the matter she was here for. Really, this girl valued her time more than money. "Let''s eat something first."

    "How long?"

    He knew she was asking about how long it''ll take before the meal is served, so he answered honestly, "About twenty minutes."

    "I think twenty minutes are enough for us to talk," responded Raelle.

    Soren could only follow her lead and took her to his study leaving Cloe with Hyson. He opened his secret safe and pulled out a tightly sealed envelope before cing it on the table before her. Raelle picked it but and took out the documents. But just seeing the very first page, she paused and looked up at him, "This is highly ssified. Do you really want me to see this?"

    Soren waved his hand, "I have permission from the higher-ups. As soon as they knew I want Raelle Xiang to be a part of this project, they were eager to have you onboard." While Raelle was pondering something, he continued, "Don''t doubt your poprity. You''ve made quite some waves in the field of physics even when you''re only fourteen. I even heard several renowned scientists wanted to take you in as a disciple back then." He heaved a sad sigh, "It''s a pity, you chose business as your priority."

    "Do you think I ever do anything for fame?" asked Raelle.

    Soren shook his head, "No way. You don''t do anything for fame. It''s always about profits. And surprisingly, money is not the only thing that you find profitable. Is that right?" Raelle looked up at him in silence as he went on, "Don''t you like to challenge yourself? You even took a simr project three years ago just because you were interested in the prospect of learning something new."

    Raelle rapped her fingers on the armrest of the chair before she picked up the documents again and started reading them attentively. Anyone who saw her would say she was just skimming through it because of how fast she flipped through the pages but Soren wasn''t one of those people. He knew her reading abilities were abnormally fast just as her understanding was a lot deeper.

    After merely ten minutes, she ced the documents down and said, "It''s quite interesting."

    Soren smiled when he heard that. That was what he had been waiting to hear all this time. As long as she said, it was interesting, the deal was done!

    "You think so?" he asked in a good mood. "So, you''re willing to join the team?"

    "I didn''t say that," answered Raelle. "Give me some time to think about it."

    "When did Raelle Xiang need time to take action? Aren''t you always decisive about everything?"

    "It''s not about my decisions. I have to ask someone first," told Raelle seriously.

    Soren''s mouth was agape as he stared at her, "You actually have to take permission from your husband? Is Master Xian really that kind of a husband?"

    "Think carefully before spouting nonsense about my husband," responded Raelle. "It has nothing to do with him. I have to ask my grandfather first."

    "Huh? Why?"

    "You might not know this but Xiang family has a long-standing history of serving the country in the army. I can be considered the only one in the history of the Xiang family who chose to follow a different career. And that''s because my grandmother wanted me to stay away from the army. This was also the reason my patriotic grandfather decided to leave his homnd and take me elsewhere." Raelle didn''t hide anything from him and detailed everything in a in manner. "This project is strongly involved with the military and even the research and development team from the army will also be a part of it. So, I can''t make this decision on my own."

    Soren was silent for a minute before he spoke out his thoughts, "It''s hard to believe that an independent and strong woman like you is still allowing your elders to dictate your life."

    "My Opa has never dictated my life," said Raelle. "I always do what I want to do. But just because I can''t understand feelings doesn''t mean I''m willing to ignore the feelings of those who are close to me. In simple words, my Opa had been my whole world. I am Raelle Xiang because I had Xiang Tianyu as my grandfather. He doesn''t owe me anything but I owe him everything I have including my own life."

    Soren''s eyes widened a little when he heard that. He never thought he''d hear such strong words from Raelle. It took him a while to get back to his senses. "Okay. Then you let me know after you''re done discussing with him but..."

    Raelle took advantage of his pause and said, "You don''t have to worry about anything. I won''t disclose anything about this confidential project."

    Soren shook his head, "I wasn''t worried about that. I can never worry about such things when ites to you." He asked her to walk out saying, "Let''s go and eat something now."

    Raelle didn''t continue either and they went to eat with Cloe and Hyson who were already seated at the dining table. Both seemed to be talking about something.

    "Best of luck to you then!" Raelle heard Hyson saying to Cloe as he even gave her two thumbs up. Cloe only smiled and went quiet when she saw Raelle and Soren joining them back. "Ellie, give Cloe best wishes. She is finally willing to y on the field again."

    "ying on the field?" echoed Raelle. "What is she ying? Do I have to go to cheer her up?"

    Hyson chuckled at her words, "She is going to y hearts. You should definitely cheer her up."

    "Okay," answered Raelle taking his words very seriously. Although she knew Hyson loved to talk nonsense, she''d still take his words seriously.

    "Chief, don''t listen to him," Cloe chimed in as she thought about Raelle''s peculiar way of thinking. She couldn''t even imagine what cooked up in Raelle''s mind. "I''m just going on a blind date. It''s no big deal."

    Raelle listened to her and said, "How is it not a big deal? I know how troublesome blind dates are. So, I''ll definitely cheer you up."

    Hysonughed at that, "Yes, yes. Ellie is always right."

    "Let''s not wait anymore. The food is getting cold," announced Soren and picked up his chopsticks. "Raelle, Cloe said you have no preferences in food so I just cooked a few of my specialties."

    "It''s not my first day knowing you. When did you get so formal?" asked Raelle.

    "Can''t you just let me be polite for a minute?" retorted Soren.

    "There is no need," replied Raelle choking Soren, not knowing what else to say.

    Hyson silently picked up some dishes and put them into Raelle''s bowl saying, "Eat."

    Raelle listened to him and started eating in silence. And since she didn''t talk while eating, Hyson didn''t talk that much either. Meanwhile, Cloe asked Soren, "Are you gonna send those photos to your daughter?"

    "No," answered Soren. "I''m sending it to my wife."

    "Why?"

    "So that she can show those photos to my daughter," said Soren. Seeing how Cloe looked at him, he added, "My Xena is only six. Do you really think she has her own phone?"

    "Tsk. Tsk. How stingy of you!"

    "It''s not about me being stingy," retorted Soren. "She is really young for it. I don''t want her to get addicted to the phone at this age."

    Cloe rolled her eyes, "You''re hoping for too much, Soren. We live in an age where it''s impossible to extract yourself from your phone. Even our payments are done by phone. Do you really think you should be this strict?"

    Soren sighed out, "I''m not being strict. I just want her to stay innocent for a couple more years. Once she is over ten, I''ll definitely give her a phone."

    "And earlier you said, my Opa dictated my life," came Raelle''s voice as she put her chopsticks down indicating that she was done with her meal.

    "I''m not dictating her life," argued Soren. "I''m trying to protect her."

    "And what makes you think my grandfather hadn''t been doing the same?"

 Chapter 294 - My Darling

    Listening to Raelle, Soren came to realize that she actually holds grudges. He never thought that Raelle would have a petty side but she did. Since he pointed out how her grandfather dictated her life, she actually remembered it and even used his own actions to remind him that his actions weren''t any different from her grandfather''s.

    He decided not to continue this argument with her since there was no way, he''d win this battle of words. And he wasn''t in the mood to lose right now. So, he silently just bore it for now.

    ??

    "This meal is really delicious," stated Hyson. He had never been stingy with praises. Especially when it came to food, he''d be willing to wholeheartedly praise the chef to heaven as long as the food catered to his taste. And currently, he really enjoyed the food so he wasn''t gonna be shy with his praises. "You have a real talent. I really respect that!"

    Soren gave Hyson an amused look, "How is it a talent? I only made some simple homemade dishes. It''s really easy and anyone can do it."

    Hyson shook his index finger in a clear no-no manner saying, "No, no, no! Not everyone can make it. At least, I can''t. And my overlord best friend can''t either."

    "Don''t drag me into this," said Raelle.

    Hyson disregarded her words and continued, "I really love the warmth of these homemade dishes. And someone like me who can''t even boil water properly actually appreciates your talent a lot more."

    Cloe chuckled at his words, "Maybe you should start learning how to cook then."

    "Huh? Why?" asked Hyson in confusion.

    "I heard people say if you can''t cook, you can''t marry a wife," said Cloe jokingly.

    Hyson tilted his head to a side and shrugged his shoulders, "It''s alright. If I can''t marry a wife, I''ll just bring in a husband."

    Cloe almost spurted out the water in her mouth as she stared wide-eyed at Hyson''s face who looked like he was being very serious about it. Soren on the side, covered his mouth to hide hisughter. Meanwhile, Hyson only paid attention to his best friend''s reaction or more like herck of reaction to his words.

    "Wasn''t I funny?" he questioned Raelle.

    "I don''t think so," responded Raelle.

    Hyson tsked and patted her head as if consoling her as he said, "It''s not your fault that your funny bone is missing."

    Raelle followed his movements and patted his head saying, "It''s also not your fault that you lost your brain."

    Hyson rolled his eyes at her inwardly before telling Cloe, "If my good-for-nothing best friend can find a partner, certainly, I can do the same."

    "Why are you dragging me in again?" asked Raelle. "Besides, I found my partner because my husband was looking for a wife, not a maid."

    "Ohhh..." Hyson gave her an appreciating look before turning to Cloe, "See? That''s what I wanted to hear. My Ellie always hit the mark." His smile turned sincere as he went on, "If and I mean if in the future I am looking for a partner, I certainly will make sure I can afford a cook. After all, I am fond of eating not of cooking."

    "There is something seriously wrong with the way you both understand things,"mented Cloe. "Also, are you sure Chief is a good-for-nothing? Aren''t you afraid of heaven punishing you for lying to her face?"

    "I''m not lying," retorted Hyson righteously. "She is a good-for-nothing. As for in what sense, I won''t say it." Raelle didn''t refute his words from the side tacitly agreeing with him. She basically had no living skills. If she was left alone, she''d probably die. Wasn''t that the reason the people in her family paid extra attention to her needs?

    Raelle held the cor of Hyson''s shirt from the back and pulled him up saying, "We should leave now. Hyson needs to take his medicine and sleep early."

    "Oh, yes. Hyson is still recuperating," said Soren. "I shouldn''t too much of your time. We can gather again when you recoverpletely."

    "Sure," agreed Hyson readily.

    "You should inform me whatever you decide," Soren directed these words towards Raelle.

    "Don''t act like a broken record," responded Raelle.

    Soren pursed his lips while Hysonughed out softly while walking out with Raelle. Cloe was left staring at Soren''s expression saying, "You should stop digging your own grave. Chief might really throw you to your death!" With that, she also picked up her handbag and left.

    Sorren called out from behind, "At least, you take my side!"

    Just as Raelle and Cloe''s cars drove out one after another, a red car drove inside. As Sora stepped outside, she looked towards the cars leaving through the driveway. She frowned a little. She thought she saw Hyson in the car at the front but then she was thinking why he''d be here at her brother''s ce? It didn''t really make sense.

    .....

    Time seemed to move at the pace of a tortoise. Or at least, that''s what Shui Xian had been feelingtely. It had been about two weeks since he came here from home. It felt like just two weeks, but it seemed to be longer than that for Shui Xian who had been extremely frustratedtely. He had been away from his wife for so long and his work has yet note to an end. What torture!

    Taking a break, he hade to sit down on the grass field. Sighing, he kept pulling out the grass to show his inner feelings. He looked like a kid who was sulking and honestly speaking, he really was sulking.

    He bent his arm behind his head andid down on the green grass taking his arm as his pillow. He stretched out his other hand towards the sky as if to cover the sunlight falling on him. But suddenly, he opened his fingers allowing the sunlight to trickle through the sides of his fingers and fall on his facezily.

    He had so much on his mind right now. And yet, he kept getting distracted by the thought of his wife. He pulled out his phone and looked at the picture he had set as his lock screen. Looking at the side profile of that girl made his lips stretch in a smile.

    How he wished to see that face right now. To touch that face and hug her.

    When he noticed that this was the time for Raelle''s lunch break, he hurriedly made a video call to her. The call was connected within seconds and his wife''s face appeared before his eyes. He couldn''t help smiling affectionately when he looked at her.

    "Baby, whatcha doing?"

    Raelle was setting the phone on the stand when she heard his voice and paused because of his ''Baby'' and the way he said, ''whatcha doing?'' However, choosing topletely overlook that ''Baby'' she said, "I''m about to eat lunch. What are you doing?"

    "I''m missing you," he said almost instantly without any hesitation. Seeing how Raelle only looked at him without saying anything, Shui Xian continued, "I''m not lying. These days, every single minute, I''m just missing you. It has gotten so bad that previously when Iid alone on my bed at night, I used to say, ''Hello, darkness! My old friend.'' But now I say, ''Hello, darkness! Why are you back?''"

    Raelle listened to him without disturbing him. She didn''t mind him talking at all. In fact, she wanted him to continue talking more.

    "So what can I do to make you feel better?" asked Raelle after thinking about it carefully.

    "Mm..." Shui Xian tapped his chin thoughtfully. "How about singing me a song?"

    "That I can''t do" answered Raelle. "I can''t sing."

    "Just because you can''t sing who said you shouldn''t sing? No matter how bad your singing is, just sing it!"

    "But I don''t know any songs either," said Raelle truthfully. "Hyson says I don''t have an ear for music because I don''t like listening to music. Even if the music is ying around me, I have the talent to zone out of it."

    "Wow! My wife''s talents are remarkable!"mented Shui Xian.

    "You can ask for anything else," suggested Raelle.

    Shui Xian fell into thought. He seemed to be contemting deeply.

    "What is it that you want right now?" asked Raelle.

    "Right now?"

    Raelle nodded her head.

    "Right now, I just want to hug you. Is it possible?"

    Raelle was left blinking at him while he shook his head adding, "Forget it. I am just messing around. How about you tell me what you did today?"

    "You really want to listen to the details of my morning schedule?" asked Raelle.

    "I don''t mind," answered Shui Xian. "As long as my wife is talking, I''ll listen attentively. Even if she is cursing me."

    "I don''t curse," stated Raelle matter-of-factly.

    Shui Xian burst outughing and touched the screen as if he was caressing her face as he said, "I know that, my darling."

 Chapter 295 - Element Of Surprise

    From the moment, Shui Xian''s eyes had fallen on Raelle''s face, his smile hadn''t died down. If anything, his smile only grew gorgeously. He didn''t even notice himself that he had been smiling like a fool and she wasn''t even around him. At times like these, he was truly thankful for the advancement of technology. At least, he was able to see his wife and hear her voice.

    When he continued to just look at her in silence, Raelle couldn''t help asking, "What are you looking at?"

    ??

    "You," he answered honestly.

    "I can see that," said Raelle. "But why? Is there something really interesting on my face that you keep looking at it?"

    "I wish I could let you see yourself through my eyes," he told her. "Only then you''d understand why I keep looking at you like a fool."

    "Like a fool?" repeated Raelle. "So, my husband is a fool now?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "I really am a fool. Why else did I give up the perfect opportunity to be with you earlier?"

    "Don''t they say, everything has a right time?"

    Shui Xian took a deep breath, "No wonder you entered my life when I really needed you."

    Shui Xian wanted to spend hours talking to her but he couldn''t do it. Soon, he heard his assistant calling him and he groaned in frustration. He sat up and said, "Babes, your hubby has to go now. Can''t talk for long."

    "Go, do your work," said Raelle once againpletely ignoring the way he called her.

    "I might have to stay for a couple more days," added Shui Xian in a bitter voice.

    "I understand," responded Raelle.

    Shui Xian''s assistant''s voice rang again and Shui Xian was annoyed now, "I''ming!" he yelled out before turning to Raelle again. "Did you see that? I feel like everyone is working against us. Always trying to drag me away from you."

    "You let them drag then," said Raelle. "I''ll just keep following you."

    Shui Xian''s heart took a critical hit because of those simple words and he was left stunned for a moment. Only when he came around did he say, "I wish I could teleport. Because I really want to kiss you so hard that you be a part of me." He sighed out and shook his head, "I should really go now or else, I''ll lose my reasoning. Take care of yourself."

    Raelle nodded in reply and only then did Shui Xian hung up the call. He found it truly a shame that he was stuck here all alone. Looking at the beautifulndscapes before his eyes, he felt like it was truly a pity that he came here without his wife. One can only enjoy the beauty of nature when beauty is beside you to give youpany.

    Meanwhile, when Raelle put her phone down. She fell into contemtion. Her phone conversation with Shui Xian reyed in her mind. As she absentmindedly rapped the table, the door was knocked.

    Raelle looked up and seeing her grandfather, she stood up immediately.

    "Opa!" she called out. "You didn''t tell me you''reing."

    "Didn''t my Yenay wanted to talk to me about something?" asked Grandfather Xiang with a gentle smile. "I thought I shoulde myself."

    Raelle kept looking at him in silence. She really didn''t want to argue about her name once again. After all, no matter how many times she told this old man not to call her ''Yenay'', he never listened. Since it hadn''t changed in years, she couldn''t expect it to change now either.

    She silently went over to the sitting area. She first took a special tea set made of jade and also took out the tea that she had ced just for her grandfather. While Grandfather Xiang asked his attendants to wait outside, Raelle sat down on the thick carpet in the kneeling position. Extending her hands out, she started preparing the tea in a practiced manner.

    Grandfather Xiang put his elbow on the armrest of his wheelchair while his hand supported the side of his face. His eyes lingered on his granddaughter''s movements. He had taught her everything he knew. And since her desire to absorb knowledge was so strong, she always learned with interest. So, even though she grew out of the country, he had imparted his culture in her.

    He could still recall how he was against the idea of teaching her about tea ceremonies. He was scared she''d scald her hand with the hot water. But seeing how her interest grew by just watching him make tea, he couldn''t stop her from learning. Especially since she managed to learn only by watching him.

    Watching her performing a tea ceremony was a feast for any man who was a tea enthusiast like him. Her movements were precise and not hurried at all. She looked rxed and leisurely. She made it look so easy and beautiful that no one could take their eyes away.

    As she offered the tea in a respectful manner, he said, "It seems like I gave you trouble bying here. You shouldn''t have wasted time on preparing tea for me."

    "You can never be a trouble for me," answered Raelle. "And my time is all for you. Don''t say you''re wasting it."

    Grandfather Xiang smiled sweetly and brought the cup of tea close to his nose. As he smelled it, his eyes brightened and when he took a sip, he felt rxed. "It''s been a while since I tasted the tea made by you. It''s still the best one in the whole world."

    "Opa just knows how to tter me," said Raelle.

    "If only my ttery would work on you," he replied. "Now, don''t just sit there. Come up here."

    Raelle stood up and went to sit on the couch. Grandfather Xiang held her hand in his own.

    "I believe you have something to talk to me?"

    "Yes," answered Raelle. "But I told you I''lle to see you on my own when you''re free."

    "I''m an old man who is always free," said Grandfather Xiang.

    "Fool someone who is easy," retorted Raelle. "I know better how much of a free man you are."

    Grandfather Xiang''s smile turned meaningful and he didn''t bother refuting her words. She knew things well. He couldn''t possibly fool her.

    "Anyway, since you wanted to discuss something I chose toe to you. Is it wrong toe to see my granddaughter?"

    "Absolutely not," answered Raelle. She waited for a moment before telling him, "I do have something to talk to you. Soren Ke recently came to me with a project..." After detailing him about the project while leaving out the confidential information, she looked at him to wait for an answer.

    "Since you''ve brought this topic up, I believe you have a strong interest in the project?" It was more of a statement rather than a question. "Then why are you asking me? Have I ever stopped you from doing anything?"

    "It''s not that you''ve ever stopped me from making my own choices, it''s more like I just want you to tell whether I should take part in this or not?"

    Grandfather Xiang touched her head lovingly, "It''s your interest. Do what makes you feel happy. I did want to keep you away from the military as much as possible because of the promise I gave to your grandmother but it doesn''t mean I want you to give up on something you like just because of me."

    "Then I''ll think about it again," said Raelle. It was true that Raelle had a strong interest in the topic of research but she had still note to a decision whether she wanted to be part of this project or not. For some reason, she had been avoiding it.

    "Do as you like," said Grandfather Xiang as he enjoyed the tea made by his precious granddaughter.

    "Opa," she called out.

    "Hm?"

    "When I used to go out for days and you didn''t get to see me, did you miss me?"

    Grandfather Xiang''s brows knitted up because of this unexpected and somewhat strange question.

    "I still miss you when I can''t see you for one day," answered Grandfather Xiang sincerely.

    "Then if I suddenly show up in front of you after being apart for a long time, would you feel happy?"

    "That''d be the best surprise ever!" said Grandfather Xiang. "I''ll be over the moon." It was such a silly question. It''d definitely be a big surprise. He''ll really be over the moon if his granddaughter gave him such a surprise.

    "You won''t think that I should have informed you beforeing?"

    "No way!" responded Grandfather Xiang. "It''ll take away the element of surprise. Besides, just seeing my granddaughter I''ll forget about everything. Why would it matter whether she informed me beforeing or not?" He noticed her contemting expression and felt something amiss. After a brief pause, he asked, "Why are you asking this?"

    "I..." Raelle paused for a moment beforeing clean. "I''d like to surprise Xian."

 Chapter 296 - Act On Her Decision

    Grandfather Xiang was left momentarily stunned because of her words. It wasn''t the first time that Raelle was thinking of surprising someone. It''d be hard to even count the number of times she had done crazy things to surprise him with something he''d been looking for. But it was his first time seeing her actually talking so openly about her feelings.

    So this moment was indeed quite special to him. Except for looking at her in a daze, he had no other words. After sorting out his feelings, he patted her head saying, "My Raelle has grown up."

    ??

    "Did you just notice?" asked Raelle.

    Grandfather Xiang nodded his head, "It seems it really took me a while to notice." He didn''t stay around for long since he knew as she had talked about surprising Shui Xian, she was gonna act upon it right this instant. There had never been a time, she''d dy acting upon her decisions. "Then, I''ll take my leave now. Let me know how the surprise goes and first and foremost, remember to take care of yourself."

    Raelle nodded her head, "I will."

    "Good."

    Grandfather Xiang left just like that and behind him, Raelle settled up the things that had been scattered on her desk. As Cloe came to pass on a file, she found Raelle was putting herptop away which made her furrow her brows in confusion.

    "Oh, you''re here," said Raelle as she caught sight of Cloe standing at the door. "It''s a good thing that you''re here. I was just about to call you."

    "Me? Why?" inquired Cloe. "What have I done now?"

    "You haven''t done anything yet," answered Raelle. "That''s why I''m gonna give you a chance to do it."

    "Do what?" asked Cloe with an even more confused look in her eyes. She was wondering what her Chief was up to this time around. She had a bad feeling about this for some reason. But she couldn''t understand why she had such a feeling.

    "If I''m gone, will you miss me?"

    Cloe opened her mouth as she stared at Raelle in shock before she honestly shook her head, "I''ll dance even without music once you''re not around."

    "Good, then I''m giving you the chance you dance," said Raelle.

    "Huh?"

    "I''m leaving for a couple of days. I''ll be back on Monday and until then you can take over," Raelle told Cloe. "I don''t have any meetings today but tomorrow, there is a meeting that you''ll have to attend on my behalf. There isn''t anything else urgent for now. So, you can deal with it without my presence."

    "Excuse me, what?" Cloe was dumbfounded now. "Are you telling me that you''re ditching work?"

    "You can say that," answered Raelle.

    "WHAT?" Cloe eximed. She felt like her head was buzzing. Her boss who had never taken a single day off since the time she knew her was actually ditching work right now. "Chief, did someone possessed your body?" Cloe was in disbelief as she stared at Raelle up and down carefully and cautiously. "Or maybe a stray soul transmigrated into your body? That is also a big possibility."

    "You should consider changing your profession," suggested Raelle. "It seems you have a potential to be the best-selling writer."

    "Chief, I''m in no mood to joke right now," said Cloe.

    "Neither am I," answered Raelle. "I''ve better things to do in life than joking around with you. Stop wasting my time now." She stepped out of the office with Cloe following behind her. "Just handle everything here for two days. If something crops up, just call me. It''s not like I''m dying."

    "I don''t know about you but the shock you just gave me might give me a heart attack," muttered Cloe. She was still unable to believe that Raelle was taking two days off of work. It was really surreal. Until Raelle had left did Cloe realize that this was real.

    Raelle took the elevator to the underground parking, found her car, and asked the driver to take her to the airport. It was already past midday and she didn''t have the time to go and pack any stuff. She just called Shui Koshing and told him, "B¨¤, I won''t being home for a few days."

    "Why? Did something happen?" asked Shui Koshing in concern.

    "No, nothing happened. I''m just going to see Xian," answered Raelle. "But if he calls you, you can''t let him know about it."

    Shui Koshing also took a moment to process this. "You''re going to surprise my son?"

    "That''s the n," said Raelle.

    "Wow! It seems my son is quite lucky," muttered Shui Koshing feeling sour. Why the hell was he left alone in this world to suffer this public disy of affection on his own? "Just let me know when you get there and take care of yourself. Also, what about your suitcase and stuff?"

    "It''s not needed," said Raelle. "I''ll just buy whatever I need from there. Currently, I don''t have time."

    "Hmmm... Okay," said Shui Koshing.

    After hanging up, Raelle looked up to see that she was already at the airport. As she alighted from the car, she snapped her fingers and someone stepped over to stand beside her humbly. "Yes, Missy. how can I help you?"

    This person was the leader of the bodyguards who had been following Raelle for years now. They were familiar with her nature and they knew she''d never call them unless she needed them for something.

    "Book a flight for me. I''ve to go see my husband," said Raelle.

    The team leader was silent for a moment before she nodded her head, "Got it!"

    Since these bodyguards were bound to follow her anyway, she''d let them openly follow her. Especially so since she didn''t even know where she was going. She didn''t n anything beforehand and that was a first for her. She had always nned her life and never took chances or impulsive decisions like she did today.

    She also didn''t know why she was impulsive today but she was. It was a fact that she suddenly wanted to go and see Xian on her own. Since he couldn''te back because of his work, she''d just find time for him instead. It was no big deal for her. There wasn''t anything urgent going on her end.

    Raelle looked at the group of people following her and instructed, "Only four people can follow me. The rest have to stay here for me and take care of some things for me." With that, she started arranging different tasks for everyone to do. She didn''t want Cloe to be overworked either so she had to leave someone else behind to take over things.

    "I''ve gotten the flight tickets, the flight will leave in thirty minutes so we have to start boarding right now," informed the team leader.

    Raelle nodded her head and followed him to gate 3 to board the ne. As she finally got onto the ne after all the formalities, only then did she took out her phone again and send a voice message to Hyson, "I won''t be around for the next couple of days. I''ve asked someone to collect the birds from you."

    The answer came almost instantly, "Since you''re not around, why don''t I keep my cotton and candy for a bit longer?"

    "Whether I am around or not doesn''t matter," responded Raelle as she sent another voice message.

    "It matters to me!" Hyson seemed to be shouting in the voice message.

    "Hyson, don''t be stubborn with me. You''re promised only two weeks and two weeks are up. Don''t go back on your words. You know well enough I don''t like it when people don''t keep their words."

    "I''m not going against my words," Hyson sounded weak all of a sudden. "I''ll say my goodbye to cotton and candy today then."

    "Good for you," said Raelle. As the flight announcement began, she was about to turn off her phone when she received another message from Hyson.

    "Where are you going though?"

    "To hell!" answered Raelle.

    "Queen of Hell is going back home? What a time to celebrate!"

    Raelle really didn''t want to continue this discussion with Hyson and neither did she feel like saying anything about what he just said.

    "Recuperate well while I''m gone," she sent the message and without waiting for his reply, she turned off her phone. As she tied the seat belt, she leaned back in her chair. If she had told Hyson where she was going, this discussion would have continued for the next whole year. She knew she''d have to listen to him a lot once he learned where she was but she didn''t care.

    Words and opinions of others never mattered to her. Since she made a decision, she''d always stick to it at any cost. Even if it was Hyson, she''d still not listen to him once she had made up her mind. And right now, she just wanted to see her husband.

 Chapter 297 - Anything Can Go Wrong

    Since Raelle had nothing else to do during this flight to Meiji, she felt kind of ufortable. Apart from the time, she''d be sleeping she had never been so leisurely. She always had something to do even if it was just bickering with Hyson. She looked in herptop bag and finally found a book that she had kept in it for who knows how long. But it was good for now.

    Seeing how she started reading the book, the team leader Anna went back to her seat and found that the other member of the team named Hailey was staring at Raelle for a long while now. Anna snapped her fingers before her eyes startling Hailey who looked up at her and smiled sheepishly, "Team leader."

    Anna took back her seat and asked, "What are you looking at?"

    Hailey cleared her throat, "All this time, I felt like we have been following our Missy''s doppelganger. Only now that she pulled out a book to read did Ie to believe that everything is fine here. That''s certainly our Missy who likes those boring books."

    Anna was amused by Hailey''s words, "Be careful of what you say. It''s not our job toment on our boss."

    Hailey waved her hands saying, "Team leader, I have no opinions about Missy. She is different but she is nice in her own way. It''s just that today, I feel like she is acting not like herself. Have you ever seen her ying hooky?"

    Anna knocked on her head, "Stop talking nonsense."

    Although she said that, even Anna found Raelle''s actions quite unbelievable. The way Raelle made ns in her life was something known to all of them. Today''s actions were hard to understand for her. Acting on impulse had never been Raelle''s style but she as just the leader of Raelle''s bodyguards couldn''tment about her impulsive act.

    However, she knew one thing for sure. This impetuous Raelle seemed a lot more human than the one who worked on the dot. This spontaneous version of her was surprising.

    As the flightnded at the airport, Raelle followed her team of bodyguards. Since she only brought four members, now in her team were two females and two males. All of them walked out of the airport and Anna sent one of the boys to find a car immediately. Soon, an off-road SUV stopped right in front of them.

    Since Raelle didn''t like strangers touching her, all of them tactfully allowed her to take the passenger seat. Raelle had no opinions about that. Since they had been around her for years, there was a tacit understanding between them now. Even if Raelle didn''t talk much now, they could understand what she wanted.

    It waste afternoon when theynded in Meiji and they had to spend another two hours or so on the road to get to the hotel where Shui Xian was staying. In Raelle''s presence, none of the other four dared to talk. There wasplete silence in the car as they set off towards their destination.

    Raelle was about to take out her book once again when Shui Xian''s words rang in her mind, ''See the world with your own eyes. Stop searching for the world in these books.''

    She closed the book and put it back. Tilting her head, she gazed outside the window to see the world that her husband seems to fancy a lot. She didn''t know what she could find outside the window but she knew that both Shui Xian and Hyson always had a look of curiosity to explore in their eyes whenever they looked outside the window. She never understood that curiosity but she was willing to try. She was willing to experience it herself.

    The view in Meiji seemed to be eye-catching. It was a beautiful sight outside the window. The dense forest on the sides of the road gave one a feeling of being all alone in nature. The air was fresh and rxing.

    While Raelle was observing the view outside the window, suddenly the car came to a stop. Raelle turned her head to look at the boy who was driving. With a solemn look, he got off the car saying, "Let me see what happened."

    He alighted down and opened the hood to check it. Smoke flew out from inside and made him cough. Seeing that, Raelle also followed and alighted down the car. As she came to stand beside the one who was checking up on the issue, she said, "This car won''t go ahead."

    Aiden who had been checking the issue looked at Raelle and nodded, "It''s my negligence. I should have checked everything before getting the car."

    While Anna was about to open her mouth to lecture him, Raelle raised her hand and stopped her. Then she checked the time and looked around. There wasn''t even a single car on the same road. "How long?"

    Aiden immediately answered, "We have about ten kilometers to go now."

    Raelle nodded her head and said, "Let''s hit the road. We have to get there before the sunset."

    "Huh?" All of them were dumbfounded and only came to their senses when they saw her taking out herptop bag.

    "Team leader, are we supposed to let Missy walk for that long?" asked Aiden.

    "Do you have a better decision? Even if you do, it won''t work for now. She had already decided now," answered Anna and all of them also followed suit.

    Walking for about ten kilometers was really not a big deal to Raelle. And she had no problem with it either. Rather than waiting at the side of the road to wait for another car or to ask for life, she''d prefer to just keep going. Wasting time wasn''t her style anyway. And there was nothing wrong with a little walk.

    Perhaps, today was really not her day because all of a sudden, the sun that was ring soon hid behind dark clouds and even before they could make sense of what was happening, a heavy downpour caught them off guard.

    "Missy, we should find a shelter," instructed Anna worrying about Raelle.

    "Scared of the little rain?" inquired Raelle.

    "Never," answered Anna.

    "Then keep going," said Raelle.

    "I''m just worried about you," stated Anna with concern reflecting in her eyes.

    "There is no need for that," replied Raelle. "I''m not a porcin doll and neither did my Opa raise as one."

    Anna pursed her lips and decided not to continue persuading her. It was quite obvious that Raelle wasn''t gonna listen to them at all.

    However, today was the day, Raelle Xiang experienced in person why they say haste makes waste. This was her first time doing something unnned and it wasn''t going well. Today was really not her day. Because as they say, when something can go wrong believe, that it will go wrong. She was going through that now. Everything was going wrong just because she came to a hasty decision of looking for her husband.

    There had been still about five kilometers when the rain started and Raelle was drenchedpletely by the time she entered the town where Shui Xian was staying. Because of the muddy puddles, most of her clothes were not only wet but also dirty. She was hugging the bag of herptop against her chest tightly. Although the bag was waterproof, she still didn''t use it to shield her head. Apparently, the data in herptop was a lot more important than herself.

    "Ask for the directions," said Raelle when they entered the town.

    One of them stopped a man walking by to ask the directions and then followed the directions to end up right where they were.

    "Are you ying with us, Caleb?" asked Anna in rage. Her heart was already in her throat from the time the rain started. Walking might be piece of cake to Raelle since she had been trained from a young age but she couldn''t just allow Raelle to stay in rain for so long. What if she caught a cold? Mu Chenyan would skin them all alive!

    "Team leader, I just followed the directions that man gave me," Caleb seemed to be quite innocent in this case. It was hard to say who was ying with them. Whether it was the man who gave the wrong directions or the heavens who were against Raelle today.

    It took them fifteen minutes to find the hotel and even before Raelle could walk inside, she saw Shui Xian standing at the entrance of the hotel with his eyes stuck on his phone screen. He seemed to be calling someone but since the call wasn''t going through, he was frustrated now.

    Raelle walked over and standing under the stairs that led to the entrance, looked at him and called out, "Hubby!"

    Shui Xian''s whole body visibly stiffened when he heard that voice. For a moment, he didn''t dare look up but when he slowly lifted his eyes, he was left dumbstruck.

 Chapter 298 - Hug

    Shui Xian spent his whole day in a depressed mood. For some reason, he was feeling really down since the time he woke up. Perhaps, it was because of the nightmare that woke him up at 3 o''clock in the morning, andter he couldn''t fall asleep at all. Whatever the reason was, he had been really restless.

    He only felt a little calm when had gotten to talk to Raelle. Just seeing her made all his nightmares disappear. And he was able to smile from his heart. Butter she became the reason why his mood hit rock bottom. As soon as he came back to the hotel room, he had been trying to call Raelle but her phone was constantly turned off.

    He had been trying to call her for the past hour but her phone was still off. As the rain started pouring, he felt like this gloomy weather was making him even more uneasy. It was his first time to face such a situation with Raelle. After all, Raelle always kept her phone on and she''d always answer his phone within seconds.

    He wanted to call someone else to inquire about Raelle but he didn''t want anyone else to worry. He repeatedly tried to convince himself that he was overthinking. Whatever the scenarios his brain cooked up were just because of his nightmare that made him feel so restless. He told himself to be patient and wait. Maybe Raelle was stuck somewhere and forgot to charge her phone. There was no need to have such a big reaction.

    But his brain wasn''t willing to cooperate with him right now.

    The more he tried to calm himself, the more his situation worsened. In the end, he stepped out of the hotel and started pacing at the entrance. While waiting, he was still trying to call Raelle but her phone was constantly out of reach.

    So when he heard the voice that kept ringing in his mind since morning, he was stunned. Even when he looked up and saw Raelle standing right there down the stairs, he didn''t dare move, and neither did he dare blink his eyes. He was scared that this was a dream and it''d shatter once he blinked.

    But the girl before his eyes looked so real. She was drenched all over. Her hair stuck to the side of her face. Even her clothes were tightly hugging her body. Her clothes were so dirty but her face was still as beautiful as ever. And her eyes were just as nk as always. But the way she blinked at him seemed to be like a spell that put him in a trance.

    Shui Xian slowly stepped down the stairs and came to stop at thest step. As he looked down at her, he extended his hand to touch her face. The feeling of her skin under his fingers was real. So real that his eyes widened in shock at the realization that it wasn''t his dream. She was really standing right in front of him.

    Raelle turned her head and looked at Anna, "Hold it." She passed herptop bag to Anna and turned back to look at Shui Xian.

    "Babes, you... You''re really here?" she heard Shui Xian''s silly question.

    Blinking at him innocently, she tilted her head slightly, "Of course."

    "How?" uttered Shui Xian incredulously. Shaking his head, he added, "And why?"

    "Didn''t you ask for a hug?" responded Raelle calmly as if it was the most obvious thing to do that once he asked for a hug, she had toe to him to give him that hug. She opened her arms and said, "Hug."

    While Shui Xian was still in a daze, she wrapped her arms around his neck and jumped up. Instinctively, Shui Xian supported her body as she wrapped her legs around his waist. Standing at thest step of the stairs, he was also getting wet in the rain that had slowed down a little but was still constantly pouring down.

    Feeling her body against his own and the way she said she came just because he wanted a hug actually was like a killer move that pierced right through Shui Xian''s heart breaking down whatever resistance he had been holding on to. How could one resist her?

    A huge and foolish smile made its way to Shui Xian''s lips as he hugged her so tightly as if he wanted to bury her body within himself. With her heated breath blowing against his ear, he felt a tickling feeling but that feeling wasn''t limited to his sensitive ear, it actually traveled down to the very core of his heart as well.

    As Raelle pulled back her face and looked into his eyes, he said helplessly, "Silly girl."

    "Am I?" Raelle touched the tip of her nose as she asked.

    "Yes, you are," he told her certainly.

    Raelle contemted something before asking, "Then, is it a bad thing?"

    Shui Xian touched her forehead with his own as he said, "No way."

    "That''s good enough then," replied Raelle. Taking note of how his hair was now damp because of the slow rain, she said, "Why did youe out? You''re getting wet?"

    Shui Xianughed out and looked at her knowingly, "Darling, should you be talking about me getting wet in this condition?"

    Only then did Raelle looked down and realized that she was wet and dirty as well. And she actually hugged him in this condition. Didn''t that mean she actually made him dirty and wet as well? She squirmed as if trying to get down but how could Master Xian let that happen? She was finally in his arms and you think he''d let her go so easily?

    Keep Dreaming!

    "Put me down," said Raelle.

    "No," replied Shui Xian as he shook his head. "Running into my arms was your decision, running out of here is definitely my decision."

    "That doesn''t make any sense," Raelle pointed out.

    "My passionate feelings for you also make no sense," Shui Xian thought to himself with a sweet smile lingering on his lips.

 Chapter 299 - Arrogant Husband

    While Shui Xian was busy hugging his wife in his arms, Raelle''s team of bodyguards tactfully lowered their gazes. It wasn''t their ce to peek into their boss''s affairs. But still gossipy self of Hailey couldn''t help whispering, "I never knew Missy had such a human side to her. She seemed like just any other girl when she hugged her husband."

    "Hailey, I told you to leave your habit of gossiping," said Anna.

    Suddenly, the quietest of them all spoke out, "Missy had always been more human than all of us." Hailey looked at Aiden in surprise while thetter continued, "You''ve only joined the team for a year so perhaps you never noticed." It wasn''t shocking for Hailey that he talked but that he actually spoke up for Raelle.

    "However, she is, you can''t find a better boss," added Caleb from the side. "So, it''s better if you doing continue talking about her."

    Hailey pursed her lips and hit her own mouth. She had to keep reminding herself that she was working with these three work maniacs who didn''t even talk unless it was rted to their work. She really couldn''t be like them. Her lively soul that had stayed alive even when she worked in a mercenary was gonna be crushed if she continued to live with these people.

    On the other hand, Ma Jin was going through an earth-shattering shock when he saw his boss carrying a woman inside the hotel. He was so shocked that he staggered. If there wasn''t a wall behind him, he''d have definitely fallen. And when he saw the face of that woman he really felt like he was dizzy. Everything seemed to be spinning around him.

    He decided to keep his mouth shut and he even wanted to keep his eyes closed. But Shui Xian didn''t give him the chance to do so as he saw him and said, "Arrange everything for the people over there." He was pointed towards Raelle''s bodyguards and without waiting for an answer, he had already taken the elevator to get to his own room as soon as possible.

    Even after he got to his room, he didn''t put Raelle down.

    "You still aren''t gonna put me down?" asked Raelle.

    "No," answered Shui Xian. He took her straight to the bathroom and made her sit beside the basin. Taking a towel, he rubbed her hair saying, "Why are you so careless? What if you fell ill?"

    "I''m not that weak," responded Raelle.

    Shui Xian shook his head helplessly and went to turn on the hot water in the bathtub. Coming back to her side, he looked at her dirty appearance and sighed out, "Would you like to tell me how you ended up like this?"

    "The car broke down on the way," answered Raelle. "And we had to walk."

    Shui Xian stared at her in shock, "Why did you walk?"

    "If we called for another car, it''d take hours," said Raelle. "And no one was willing to offer a lift."

    Shui Xian was even more surprised to know that no one was willing to offer a lift to Raelle Xiang. He knew how scarce the traffic could get on the road that led to this town. But even with that scarce traffic, someone would have been willing to give a lift right?

    Well, what he didn''t know was that seeing those four bodyguards standing guard around Raelle, any car driver would take them for a thug. Even though they looked like civilized people, their inner brutality couldn''t be suppressed. Those four people came from the most dangerous professions in the world. How could their aura''s be inferior to their boss?

    And adding on the fact that Raelle would never stop to ask for a ride, it left them with no choice but to walk. If only Raelle had shown her beautiful face, anyone would have fallen for the beauty trap and would have also offered a ride willingly.

    Shui Xian could only shake his head, "Then you could have called me. I''d havee to get you myself. It would have taken barely twenty minutes."

    "Then I wouldn''t have been able to see that look of utter disbelief and shock on your face," said Raelle matter-of-factly. "How would it be a surprise if I called you?"

    "Sweetheart, don''t do it again," said Shui Xian feeling a little sad in his heart. He was really happy to see her here but he was equally distressed to see what she looked like right now. If she really fell ill because of this, he''d really not be able to forgive himself for speaking nonsense that led her to make a decision toe to him.

    "You don''t like seeing me here?" asked Raelle. She only went through all that because she thought he''d be really happy to see her. Also, she was actually expecting to see the shock on his face. Perhaps, she didn''t even notice just how much she was expecting to see him.

    Shui Xian rubbed his thumbs against her cheeks saying, "How can I not like seeing you here? I can''t even tell you just how much I''m happy to have you here right now. But..." he took a pause and sighed out, "I can''t see you going through such trouble again."

    "It was no trouble," said Raelle honestly. "Even if it was..." She looked right into his eyes with her sparkling eyes as she continued, "You''re worth the trouble."

    *Lub-dub! Lub-dub! Lub-dub!*

    Shui Xian could hear his heartbeat drumming in his ears. It was so loud that he was certain even she could hear it but he couldn''t see from her face whether she did or not.

    "Keep talking like that and I''ll be arrogant," said Shui Xian.

    "It''s okay. I can afford an arrogant husband," replied Raelle.

    Shui Xian chuckled and pinched her nose, "Don''t make me feel so special."

    "But aren''t you special?" asked Raelle. Without waiting for his answer, she answered herself, "I think you''re a special."

    "Because I have a special wife?" asked Shui Xian with a smile on his face.

    "How can I make you special?" responded Raelle. "You''re special on your own. I just add an extra vor to it."

    Shui Xian burst outughing loudly at her reply.

 Chapter 300 - Leg Accessory

    Shui Xian tried to avoid Raelle''s eyes that felt like whirlpools sucking his soul in and he also tried to disregard her words that felt like spells enchanting him. He crouched down and took off her shoes. Then he helped her in taking off her zer before removing her shirt as well.

    He was being a gentleman trying to just remove her dirty and wet clothes. There was no other purpose. At least, that''s what he kept telling himself. Whether he managed to convince himself or bury down his desires was hard to say. But one thing was for sure that the feeling of her satiny skin under his hands really was making his mind buzz.

    Raelle silently cooperated with him and let him do as he pleased. She was being served, why would she mind that?

    Shui Xian turned off the water when the bathtub was filled and put Raelle inside the bathtub filled with warm water. As he sat on the edge of the bathtub he asked, "Is the temperature of the water okay for you?"

    "It''s fine," answered Raelle.

    "It might be a bit hot," said Shui Xian. "But it''s because I don''t want you to catch a cold."

    "I won''t catch a cold," replied Raelle. "But you sure will if you didn''t take off those clothes."

    Shui Xian leaned over as he said, "Since I helped you take off your clothes, how about you help me as well?"

    Raelle didn''t reply, instead, she extended her arm and started unbuttoning his shirt without a word. In the end, it became torture hard for him to bear because even after removing his shirt, her hands didn''t retreat but instead started roaming on his chest. Her finger pads started drumming against his skin while her expression showed, she seemed to be in deep thought.

    Shui Xian caught her mischievous hand and closed his eyes to take a deep breath before saying, "Honey, don''t do that."

    Raelle blinked at him as she asked, "Why? You aren''t joining me?"

    Shui Xian poked her forehead, "I feel like until I really agree to join you, you''re really gonna keep asking the same thing again and again."

    "Didn''t I tell you, I won''t move on unless I aplished my task?" retorted Raelle matter-of-factly.

    Shui Xian licked his lips and looked at her for a moment before sighing in resignation. He pulled down his pants and stepped inside the bathtub on his own. He sat right behind her with her back against his chest and his legs around her body.

    "Is it okay now, my queen?"

    "I think so," answered Raelle.

    Shui Xian chuckled. Raelle leaned back on his chest to rest her head on his shoulder. Shui Xian''s hand wrapped around her waist and his face buried in her neck as he took a deep breath letting her smell invade his senses. Only when he did it did his mind seemed toe to his senses.

    "You know when I called you during the day," began Shui Xian with his lips pressed against her shoulder. "I was really missing you. When I asked for that hug, I really needed it."

    "Then isn''t it a good thing that I came to offer you that hug?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian''s lips hooked up as he hummed, "Hmmm... It''s really great that you heard my desperate calling and came here for me." His lips caught the tip of her ear as yed around licking it and nipping it. "Thank you foring here for me."

    "Is there a need for a thank you?" asked Raelle.

    "There is," answered Shui Xian. "You actually did something that is so not like you. This spontaneous decision led to so many things going wrong on your way to me and yet, it didn''t stop you at all."

    "You can call me stubborn," said Raelle. "Once I want to do something, it bes my goal. I won''t back off unless I aplish what I want. A little rain can''t possibly stop me."

    Shui Xian bumped his head with her hers saying, "Silly, what if it had been a storm?"

    "And you think a storm can stop me?" asked Raelle in return.

    Shui Xian sighed out when he looked at the conviction in her eyes. It was strange but he could actually see something in her nk eyes. How weird!

    "I got it. Nothing can stop my waifu!"

    "That''s true," agreed Raelle.

    "But don''t do it again," Shui Xian repeated himself. "It really hurts my heart knowing that you walked for so long. Your feet must be sore now."

    Raelle pushed up her foot out of the water giving him the perfect view of her long, white leg and those cute toes that wiggled around showing him that she wasn''t sore at all. "You really underestimate your wife. Just ten kilometers are enough to tire me? I don''t think so."

    Shui Xian pinched her cheek saying, "Do you even know what tiredness is?"

    "I know," answered Raelle. "It''s when you don''t feel like doing anything. It''s when you aren''t able to support your own body to even stand up. And all you want to do isy down wrapped up in a nket like a silkworm."

    Shui Xian chuckled out, "Certainly, my wife gives the best descriptions."

    Shui Xian helped shampoo her hair and served her as a devoted husband. Feeling her squirming around making his hardly suppressed desires stir up again, he reprimanded her softly, "Baby, don''t move around."

    "Fine," said Raelle and stopped moving around.

    Shui Xian didn''t want this bath to turn into anything else. He believed that once he purely had a bath with Raelle, her obsession of having him join in for a bath will definitely wear off. And that''s why he was trying really hard not to do anything else.

    But merely her presence was making everything quite difficult. So hurried up and finished this bath soon. He put on loose trousers and wiped her damp hair. Then wrapping her in a big towel, he picked her up and brought her out of the bathroom.

    "I can walk. I am not even dirty now," said Raelle when he picked her again. She wasn''t that lightweight, then why was he suddenly obsessed with carrying her around?

    "Maybe it''s because I haven''t seen you for days," answered Shui Xian. "So now, I''m addicted to holding you in arms. It feels good."

    "Really?" questioned Raelle as he put her at the edge of the bed.

    "Really," said Shui Xian as he touched the tip of her nose gently. "Also, didn''t I tell you before? I''m a clingy husband. Since you won''t act clingy, I will. If it''s in my power, I might soon be your leg essory!"

    "I am okay with having a husband," told Raelle. "There is no need for a leg essory."

    Shui Xian was truly amused by her words. As if he could really be her leg essory. She really took everything way too seriously and literally. But that''s what made her different from others.

    As he was about to stand straight, Raelle held his arm and made him turn his head to look at her again in surprise. Before he could ask what happened, she had already pulled him down and her soft lips pressed against his own. Shui Xian looked at her in a daze before he held the back of her head and deepened the kiss.

    Raelle pried open his lips and her tongue slithered inside his mouth. Shui Xian allowed her to do as she pleased. Her tongue licked every corner of his mouth. And as the tip of her tongue grazed against the roof of his mouth, he felt a tingling sensation. As he tried to catch her tongue with his own, her slippery went back to her territory.

    Shui Xian angled his mouth and raced forward to catch that slippery tongue that was just teasing him so brazenly. Soon, their tongue rolled together, not fighting for dominance but more like harmoniously enjoying this mutual teasing.

    Both of them only pulled away when both of them felt theck of oxygen. Raelle''s lips were a shade brighter than before. And Shui Xian couldn''t move his eyes away from those moist and soft red lips.

    Hearing a doorbell, Shui Xian went over to put on a shirt and open the door to see his assistant carrying aptop. He extended it towards Shui Xian saying, "Master Xian, this belongs to President Raelle."

    Shui Xian took it and nodded before saying, "Send my dinner to my room. Add a soup as well."

    "Got it," replied Ma Jin and hurriedly left.

    Shui Xian closed the door and went back to put theptop bag on the coffee table. He suddenly recalled something and asked, "Babes, where is your phone? I''ve been calling you for an hour."

    And only after he asked that question did Raelle realize that she hadn''t taken out her phone since the time she turned it off on the flight.

 Chapter 301 - Proud Of You

    Only after Shui Xian''s reminder did Raelle think about the long-forgotten cellphone. The mobile phone had never been something precious to her like most people of her age. She just carried it around because it was convenient for her family to keep track of her whereabouts. Other than that, she hardly had any use for the phone. After all, someone like her wasn''t fond of wasting time scrolling on social media.

    "It should be in my bag," said Raelle. "I didn''t think of turning it on after the flight."

    Shui Xian was momentarily shocked that someone would forget their own phone''s presence but then he remembered that his wife was obviously out of the ordinary. She definitely could forget about something like a phone.

    "You called me?" she asked.

    "Yeah," answered Shui Xian softly as he took out her phone and turned it on for her.

    "Why?" asked Raelle.

    "I can''t call my wife?" retorted Shui Xian avoiding her eyes.

    Raelle observed his expressions and said firmly, "You''re hiding something."

    Shui Xian sighed out as he took the hairdryer from the drawer and plugged it in to dry Raelle''s hair. "When I called you, your phone was off. I got worried."

    "Why did you get worried?" asked Raelle. "Isn''t it quite normal? What if the battery died down? There was no reason to get so worried."

    "I was scared," answered Shui Xian honestly. "It must be because of the nightmare I hadst night. But when I couldn''t reach you, I was really scared."

    Raelle turned her head to look at him, "Nightmare?" Shui Xian hummed in response and continued to dry her hair. Raelle held his hand to stop him and asked, "Tell me more about it."

    Shui Xian shook his head helplessly at her and crouched down in front of her saying, "There is nothing to tell. I don''t even remember most of it. But I do remember that in my dream I kept calling your name and you kept walking away from me."

    Raelle paused as her eyes took in his downhearted expression. He really seemed like he was scared. Was he scared of losing her? When that question popped up in her mind, Raelle found it strange. Why would he be scared though?

    Raelle intertwined her fingers with his, letting his hand engulf herspletely. "I don''t have a habit of running away." She touched his fluffy hair with her other hand as she added, "So you shouldn''t even be thinking about it."

    Shui Xian smiled at her, "Babes, I know I shouldn''t think about that nightmare so seriously but some fears are engraved too deeply on our hearts. It''s hard to get rid of those fears." He had been left behind once by someone he loved dearly. How could he not be scared again now that his heart had been opened up for her? This time he was even more scared. As they say, once bitten, twice shy!

    "But I heard dreams don''te true," said Raelle seriously. "Nightmares are merely the projection of your deepest fears. And dreams... I was told that the thing you think about before going to sleep, you''ll always dream about it."

    "Do you really believe that?" he asked curiously.

    "I don''t," she answered sincerely. "I never got to experience it. And there are no facts to prove it either."

    "Wait!" Shui Xian seemed to have caught on to something from her words. "You never experienced it as in you never had a dream?"

    Raelle shook her head, "Never!" Shui Xian''s brows raised up in surprise. "I always had a nk sleep."

    Shui Xian looked at her in disbelief, "That''s not possible. Maybe you just don''t remember your dreams. After all, most of the time we forget what happened in our dreams."

    "That''s also possible," said Raelle. "But there is no way to prove that either. Since I can''t recall it, I''m more inclined to believe that I never had any dreams."

    Shui Xian knocked on his head for getting distracted by her questions and again began to dry her hair seriously. After he was done, he evenbed her hair even though she didn''t want him to do that. But Mr. Clingy Husband won''t listen to his wife tonight.

    "Now, what should we do about your clothes?" Shui Xian was in serious contemtion. Even though her figure wrapped up in that big towel looked tempting, he still had to find some clothes for her.

    "How about you lend me your own clothes for now?" suggested Raelle. "It might be too big but it''ll do for now. As for tomorrow, we can worry about that in the morning."

    Shui Xian agreed with her suggestion and opened the wardrobe to let her choose whatever she wanted. Raelle chose to take a full-sleeved shirt along with his boxers. Obviously, both were too big for her but she didn''t care about it. Seeing how the long sleeves hid even her hands, Shui Xian found her too adorable.

    While she was changing, their dinner was already delivered. Shui Xian set up the table and brought her over to take a seat and eat something. "I''ll buy you some new clothes tomorrow."

    "It''s alright," answered Raelle.

    Shui Xian still didn''t look satisfied as he said, "But it''s hard to say whether I''ll be able to find clothes for you in this town."

    "Why? There are no clothing stores here?" asked Raelle.

    "No, there are," said Shui Xian and hesitated. "However, those clothes might be too shabby for my wife."

    "It''s alright. I''ll still be the prettiest one," said Raelle without any hesitation. This narcissism made Shui Xian look at her for a long while in amusement.

    He chuckled as he nodded, "Well, that''s true. Clothes can''t possibly decline your beauty."

    "That''s for sure," agreed Raelle.

    "Drink some hot soup," said Shui Xian. "It''ll warm up your body. Hopefully, you won''t get sick."

    Although Raelle repeatedly said that she won''t catch a cold, Shui Xian wasn''t really convinced. On the very first day here, he had also gotten ill. Now, he didn''t want her to go through the same.

    Just seeing her here having dinner with him made Shui Xian feel like he was floating on cloud nine. He wasn''t expecting to see her here much less having dinner with her here. Although he had nned to bring her along next time, he didn''t think he wouldn''t have to wait for the next time.

    He had been to so many beautiful ces these days and every single time his first thought was how Raelle would love to see this. And just thinking about it was enough to keep him happy for the whole day. Now, he didn''t have to wait for long and he could take her to all those ces. While eating, he was wholly absorbed in nning how to spend the next day with Raelle. Where to take her. What to eat with her. What to buy for her. There was so much to do!

    Raelle waspletely oblivious to the ns that Shui Xian cooked up in his head. But seeing how he looked pleased, she found it quite interesting and kept observing his expressions throughout the meal. While Shui Xian was so lost in his nning that he didn''t even notice her eyes on him.

    After dinner, Raelle made a call to her grandfather to tell him that she was already with Shui Xian. But before she could talk for a little while with her grandfather, Mu Chenyan took the phone and said, "Young Miss really learned how to y hooky!"

    Raelle could already perceive Mu Chenyan''s mood from her words. She only called her ''Young Miss'' when Raelle either did something wrong or when she had to defend Raelle in front of Grandfather Xiang. Most of the other time, Raelle was just Elle to Mu Chenyan.

    "Didn''t you always urged me to learn how to y hooky?" asked Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan scoffed unhappily, "I really don''t care that you''re ying hooky from work. My problem is that you didn''t even tell me! You called Elder Xiang, you even called Shui Koshing. Even Hyson knows you went somewhere. But what about me?"

    "You got the first-hand information from Anna about my whereabouts even before she booked the flight," stated Raelle straightforwardly. "Without getting the clearance from you, she''d never move."

    Mu Chenyan coughed unnaturally. "Well, that''s Anna''s job. I don''t care whether she tells me or not. But I was expecting my Elle to tell me herself. Do you know how proud I felt when I learned that my Elle just ditched her work to run over to her husband? But all of my mood was ruined when you didn''t call me. I had to hear it from Anna."

    Only Mu Chenyan could be the one to feel proud knowing that the person she raised had finally learned how to y truant. Mu Chenyan spent years thinking of different excuses to take Raelle away from work but Raelle would never move unless she was done with her work. So, this time it was huge progress in Mu Chenyan''s opinion. How could she be not proud of it?

 Chapter 302 - What A Shame

    When Mu Chenyan first learned that Raelle left her work early to take a flight to reach her husband, she was in disbelief. It took her a while to digest this news ande to terms with it but when she finally epted this news, she was over the moon. It was like she saw her Raelle being reborn.

    Mu Chenyan was familiar with Raelle''s rigid and disciplined lifestyle. Even though doing something out of the ordinary just to surprise someone close to her was nothing new, what really surprised her was the fact that Raelle actually pushed her work away. She still remembered once Raelle made a trip deep in the mountains to find a special kind of nt for Grandfather Xiang who suddenly found interest in different nts.

    Raelle spent two days in the mountains just looking for that nt even though she could pay anyone to do it for her. But since she wanted to surprise Grandfather Xiang, she took on this difficult task. But even then, she had only done that during weekends when the office was closed.

    "I''m sorry," Raelle immediately acquiesced before her. "I should have informed you as well."

    Mu Chenyan felt even worse when she heard Elle apologizing to her. And for that, she actually smacked her own head. How could she y this guilt card on Raelle?

    "Forget it! I''m talking nonsense, why are you taking it so seriously?" Mu Chenyanughed it off. "I''m just distressed. I heard that you spent a long time walking in the rain."

    "I really don''t need to listen to another lecture," said Raelle.

    "Another?" repeated Mu Chenyan. "Did Xian also lecture you?"

    "Yeah," answered Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan patted her chest, "Right, he is also there. Our family''s son-inw is amazing. He''ll definitely take good care of you. Since he is there, I don''t have to worry at all."

    "Do you think I can''t take care of myself?" asked Raelle.

    "Nope, you can''t," answered Mu Chenyan honestly. "Give the phone to Xian."

    Raelle listened to her and passed the phone to Shui Xian. While Shui Xian was talking to Mu Chenyan, Raelle looked around the room. Seeing the loose clothes on her slim frame, Raelle realized this must have been the first time she looked so unkempt. Rubbing her nose, she sat down on the bed.

    The skin products that she used before sleeping were not with her. After all, she only carried herptop here and that didn''t contain much.

    When Shui Xian was done with the phone call, he looked at Raelle who was looking at the ground intently. He didn''t know what was so interesting on the floor. He came to sit beside her and easily snaked his arms around her waist. Then he put his shin on the hollow of her shoulder and kissed her earlobe.

    "Did Yanyan give you a lecture?" asked Raelle as her attention came back to this person who was looking for hugs and kisses since she came here. She really didn''t know that he was this clingy. Was something different about this ce? Or he had been restraining himself back at home?

    "Not really," answered Shui Xian. "She just asked me to take care of you. And I just told her, she doesn''t have to worry. I know how to take care of my wife."

    "Oh," responded Raelle.

    "By the way, Yanyan seemed thrilled over the fact that you came to see me. Especially since you came to see me during working hours." Shui Xian was amused by it as he continued, "I wonder why she is like this."

    "There was a time when Yanyan thought I was too disciplined so she tried to lead me astray," told Raelle. "It didn''t work on me even though she used to tell how fun it is to y hooky."

    Shui Xian chuckled, "She doesn''t look like someone who would have yed hooky back in school."

    "Opa said she was the hateful kind of a person in her school years," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian had a thoughtful look as he said, "When I was in school, I found two types of students to be hateful. One who always talking about studying and second, those who always yed and yet always stayed at the top of the ss."

    "Yanyan falls in the second category," Raelle told him making Shui Xian''s expressions distort.

    "Really?" asked Shui Xian. "She was that good in school even with her wild personality?"

    "She got epted in the country''s best medical school," said Raelle. "What do you think? How good was she in school?"

    "Bloody hell! She was really the hateful kind of student," Shui Xian muttered to himself.

    "Opa says, Yanyan is a genius but she never uses her intelligence on good things. Her brain always works on something destructive," said Raelle as she was told by her grandfather. "So a destructive person was really not meant to be a doctor."

    "That''s true," agreed Shui Xian. He was about to say something when his own phone rang. He stood up reluctantly and took his phone. Seeing his father calling, he epted the call, "B¨¤, howe you''re looking for me at this time?"

    "Who is looking for you?" retorted Shui Koshing. "I was looking for my daughter-inw. Did she reach there safely? I was calling her phone but it seems she was on another call so I couldn''t get it through."

    "She is with me," answered Shui Xian. "And she is fine as well."

    "Oh, that''s good. That''s really very good," Shui Koshing heaved a sigh of relief knowing that Raelle had reached there safely. "Now that she is there, you better take care of her. What kind of a husband are you? Only after a month of marriage, you ran away. And now, even your wife had to go looking for you. Shame on you!"

    Shui Xian scratched the tip of his nose as he was being bashed by his father brutally. It was as if it was his fault that he had toe here. As if he wanted toe in the first ce! If he had a choice, why would hee here alone? But it''s a shame that he didn''t really have a choice at that time.

    This bashing continued for whole ten minutes. Shui Xian didn''t even dare breathe loudly. He suddenly realized that his father''s strong momentum which had been dormant for years had finally awakened all over again. As if Raelle''s presence provided him with fuel that raged the fire within him. But Shui Xian was actually happy with this development.

    He didn''t like his father''s cautiousness around him. Thankfully, it was gone now.

    "B¨¤, say something nice about me as well. I''m definitely your son. I even went for a paternity test and it''s confirmed that I''m your only son. Unless you have a son hiding somewhere else."

    "You brat! What the hell are you spouting?!"

    Shui Xianughed out heartily, "I feel like you''re in good spirit these days."

    "Of course, I am," agreed Shui Koshing. "And the credit goes to my daughter-inw. She always eats with me. Then remind me to take my medicine. She also sits down with me to chat about various books and share knowledge with me. She even ys games with me. I recently even started joining her on her morning walks. Although I can''t keep up with her pace, I am still doing well for my age."

    When Shui Xian heard that, his eyes moved towards Raelle who had lied down on the bed. His heart was feeling warm when he heard his father praising his wife. He never knew such simple acts could actually help his father''s health. But now facts proved that what his father needed was attention. And it was a blessing that Raelle had a habit of giving all her attention to people she cared about.

    "If you continued like this, I''ll be jealous," said Shui Xian with an obvious smile on his face.

    "Who cares about your moods? I definitely can''t care about Master Xian''s mood swings anymore," said Shui Koshing. "Anyway, I am tired now. I''m going to sleep. You better do as I said."

    Shui Xian put his phone away and fell down on Raelle''s body.

    "Are you trying to squish me?" asked Raelle.

    "Not really," answered Shui Xian. Then his hands moved and hugged her before rolling over, in that way he managed to change their positions. Now, Raelleid on his body with his arms still around her waist.

    "What is this now?"

    "Let''s go to sleep like this," suggested Shui Xian.

    "Sleep? And here I thought it was time for some action."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips not knowing what to say to his blunt wife. "Baby, I''m not a beast. No matter how difficult it''s for me to control myself right now, I will do it."

    "Why? I didn''t ask you to do so," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian shook his head, "But you went through a lot today. Even if you say you''re not tired, I feel tired, for you. So, I won''t be a lustful beast tonight. Let''s just go to sleep like this."

    "Tsk!" Raelle tutted as she ced her head on his chest. "What a shame!"

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched not knowing what to say in this situation. He was trying to be a gentleman here!

 Chapter 303 - Itâ€™s A Goodbye

    While Raelle had managed to reach her husband after all those difficulties, Hyson was going through his own troubles. And just like Hyson, his troubles were also extremely simple.

    As Raelle had told him, right after sunset someone dide to take the birds away. Hyson hugged the cage in his arms as he said his goodbye.

    "Cotton, don''t always steal food from Candy. And Candy, stop yelling at poor Cotton all the time. You guys are a good match. Be happy with each other. Even if I''m not there, I want you both to be happy wherever you are. Love is painful and although it''s difficult for me to let you go, I still won''t stop you guys from getting your happiness. You deserve that."

    The stiff face of the man who came to collect the birds was twitching because of Hyson''s antics. He knew Hyson was dragging the time but he was helpless even if he knew the truth. After all, how important Hyson was to Raelle, he knew it. There was no one in Raelle''s circle who would dare to mess with Hyson. He was like the ancestor anyone would want to curry favor with.

    Raelle often said that something was wrong with Hyson''s brain and all of her bodyguards really agreed with her on this point. If it wasn''t like that how could Hyson be so daring in front of Raelle? He definitely had brain problems and that''s why he was oblivious regarding what kind of a dangerous creature Raelle was.

    As always, Hyson didn''t care what everyone thought about him. Their opinions didn''t concern him. If there was an opinion he was willing to take seriously that would be of Raelle and most of the time, Raelle didn''t really have any opinions.

    Standing at the door, Hyson was unwilling to part from his Cotton and Candy. He looked like a sad kid whose favorite toys were being taken from him and he was helpless about it. And this was the scene that Zhai Yanjun encountered when he came to the Xiang Manor. Earlier when his grandfather said he wanted to invite Grandfather Xiang to his house for a day, Zhai Yanjun readily agreed to make a visit to the Xiang Manor to invite Grandfather Xiang himself.

    Although his grandfather said he could just call his best friend, Zhai Yanjun convinced him that he should show some sincerity. And that''s how he managed to take on this task. Obviously, he had his own purpose foring here. He had been thinking about Yue since thest time he met her. As he strongly believed that she was his aunt, he was even more eager toe here.

    He wasn''t sure whether he''d be able to meet Yue again here but he had to try his luck. And now that he stood there, looking at Hyson, he had aplicated look in his eyes.

    "Cotton and Candy should always stay together," Hyson was saying. "You both are a perfect match."

    "My little Prince, what if your Cotton and Candy are siblings?" came Grandfather Xiang''s voice as he maneuvered his wheelchair over knowing that Hyson had been staying at the door for an hour now.

    Hyson''s expressions changed when he heard that. He lifted the cage and looked at his birds asking, "You both are siblings?" Then he shook his head, "There is no way. I caught Cotton giving Candy googly eyes. They are definitely not siblings! I refuse to believe that."

    Grandfather Xiangughed helplessly, "Whatever makes my little prince happy." He caught sight of Zhai Yanjun and looked surprised, "Yanjun? When did youe? And why are you standing at the door?"

    Zhai Yanjun smiled and greeted Grandfather Xiang politely. Only after Grandfather Xiang pointed it out did Hyson notice Zhai Yanjun''s presence and frowned a little, "Why are you here?"

    "Fai!" Grandfather Xiang raised his voice a little. "Is that something you should ask a guest?"

    Hyson looked aggrieved, "I didn''t mean that. I meant if he is here, he should have gone inside. Why is he waiting at the door?"

    "I was looking at your birds," replied Zhai Yanjun.

    Hyson perked up and even his eyes sparkled as he said, "My birdies are cute, right?"

    "Definitely," agreed Zhai Yanjun honestly. There was no doubt that those fluffy bords that looked like snowballs were really adorable.

    In fact, Hyson fed them so much in the past two weeks that those birds looked rounder than before. And it made them look even cuter.

    "When you rejected my Ellie I thought something was wrong with your eyes," said Hyson without trying to hide his true feelings. "But since you agree that my Cotton and Candy are cute, I guess your eyes are recovering well. Congrattions on that!"

    Zhai Yanjun pursed his lips, not knowing how to react. "Thank you, I guess!"

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head at Hyson, "Yanjun, you shoulde inside. Fai is yet to be done with his teary parting."

    Hyson pouted, "Opa, don''t say that. Do you have any idea how sad I am to see them leaving me?"

    "Either it''s birds or kids, both have their days when they have to leave the nest of their parents and go into the wild world. So, stop being dramatic now." Hyson lowered his eyes. "It''s not like you''re sending your daughter away."

    "Opa, how can I send my daughter away? I''m very much single," argued Hyson.

    "What do you mean by ''very much single?''" inquired Zhai Yanjun.

    "Oho! That means I''m extremely single!" said Hyson. "The kind who is single since birth!"

    "Even with that face, you''re single?" asked Zhai Yanjun in surprise. "Leave a way out for people like me."

    Hyson sighed out, "It''s not like I asked to be this handsome." Reluctantly, he passed the birdcage saying, "When you take them back to their home, send me a picture."

    "Don''t worry, Young Master!"

    Hyson sniffled as if he was crying even though there wasn''t a single tear in his eyes. "Opa, buy me ice cream tofort me."

    "Yes, yes. I''ll get all the ice cream for our little prince," said Grandfather Xian with a doting look in his eyes. Zhai Yanjun had heard about how fierce Xiang Tianyu had been since he was young. So, Zhai Yanjun had always had a different image of Grandfather Xiang in his mind. Seeing this gentle and doting image of Grandfather Xiang, Zhai Yanjun had aplex feeling.

    "Are you done with your goodbye?" asked Mu Chenyan when she saw Hyson.

    "Yeah," Hyson answered dispiritedly.

    Mu Chenyan touched his head lovingly, "Aiyah! My cutie is really sad, eh?"

    "Mhmm..." Hyson pouted at her.

    "It''s okay," said Mu Chenyan. "I''ll make some sugar candies for you. Do you want it?"

    Hyson nodded his head.

    Mu Chenyan pinched his nose, "My cutie is really easy to coax."

    "Some people are really blessed," said Zhai Yanjun thoughtfully.

    Grandfather Xiang patted his arm saying, "Fai is our family''s little mascot. Even Raelle can lose her ce when he is around."

    Zhai Yanjun chuckled, "That''s why I said, he is really blessed."

    Yue also came around and looked at her son acting dramatically. She felt a headacheing on. Her son rarely acted cute with her but he seemed to love acting cute with Mu Chenyan and Grandfather Xiang. Also, he really wondered howe her twenty-five-year-old son liked to act like a little kid around these two people.

    "Mum, don''t look at me like that. I am shy!"

    Yue''s lips twitched and she knocked on his head. ''Why are you like this?''

    Hyson grinned at her, "How would I know that?"

    "Yue, you don''t get involved in this," said Mu Chenyan in Hyson''s defense. "Let him be." She pulled Hyson away saying, "Cutie, youe with me. I''ll blow sugar figurines for you."

    Hyson jumped up in excitement, "Yes, yes, let''s go. Let''s go! Make one look like Cotton and one like Candy."

    "Will you be able to eat the candies that looked like your birdies?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Hyson thought about it, "No. But I''ll keep them with me."

    "Okay," agreed Mu Chenyan.

    Behind them, Yue was surprised to see Zhai Yanjun, and then she was happy. She remembered Mu Chenyan''s lecture and tried to hide her feelings but her eyes really betrayed her.

    Zhai Yanjun didn''t notice her dilemma. He was really happy to see her. He walked up to Yue and greeted her. Right now, he didn''t look any different from a kid who was happy to see his favorite person. Yue was shocked to see him acting like that.

    Why was he also acting like Yue Fai now?

    Yue didn''t know whether tough or cry at this. Zhai Yanjun chose to ignore her expressions and dragged her over to sit with him. Whether he was could understand her hand signs or not, he was more than happy to spend his time with her. And Yue was no different.

 Chapter 304 - Rough & Tough

    When Hyson followed Mu Chenyan to the kitchen, he asked thoughtfully, "What is he doing here again?"

    Mu Chenyan was preparing the ingredients to make the sugar sculpture for Hyson as she answered, "I believe you have the answer to your own question."

    Hyson pressed his lips together as his brows knitted up, "He is here for my mum."

    "Bingo!" said Mu Chenyan. "I always knew my cutie is smart."

    "Well, I learned it all from you," said Hyson.

    "Of course, you learned it from me," Mu Chenyan sounded pleased. "Your mum doesn''t have the talent." Hyson narrowed his eyes at her and she rephrased her words, "I mean to say that your mum is a softie. Even after everything she went through in life, she didn''t learn how to read people. She is still quite trustful. It really frustrates me how easily she gets attached to people."

    "Hey! Those qualities make my mum who she is. And I love her just as she is," said Hyson.

    Mu Chenyan chuckled softly, "Okay, mum''s little bunny!"

    "I am not a bunny!" retorted Hyson as he puffed up his cheeks.

    Mu Chenyan poked his puffed-up cheek saying, "Now, you definitely look like a bunny. An adorable one!"

    Hyson pulled out the chair of the small dining table in the kitchen and sat down to observe what Mu Chenyan was doing. Seeing her working on the ancient sugar art, he was impressed. He even felt like recording it. But then, he dropped the idea and concentrated on how her hands moved. It looked like delicate work and her hands were doing it carefully and skillfully.

    Hyson''s eyes moved upward from her hands and stopped on her face. To be honest, if one didn''t know Mu Chenyan, they might assume that she looked delicate but he, who had actually seen her since he was young, it was hard for him to associate the work delicate with her. Mu Chenyan was a rough and tough person. There weren''t any qualities of a delicate, graceful, or sophisticated woman that he had seen in the elite circle.

    But even then, she knew how to act gently. Although that gentleness was limited to him and Raelle, it was at least there. She was an elegantdy who wouldn''t shy away from applying hard means to achieve what she desired.

    Noticing how Hyson had been staring at her, Mu Chenyan looked up at him, "What''s on your mind? Why are you staring at me like that?"

    "I''m thinking how awesome you are," answered Hyson honestly.

    Mu Chenyanughed out, "Oh? Am I that awesome?"

    Hyson nodded his head, "You managed to raise someone like Raelle, it already proves how badass you are."

    Mu Chenyan''sughter only grew with his words, "As if raising my Elle was a difficult task." Shaking her head she continued, "I really wish she was a little difficult. At least, I would have felt like I did something for her. But she had always been so good that I hardly feel like I managed to do anything for her."

    "Your opinion doesn''t really count," said Hyson. "Only third-person can see the situation clearly. And I can see it." Hyson smiled at her as he went on, "Since the time we were young, I have always admired you a lot."

    "Just because I raised Raelle?" asked Mu Chenyan in surprise.

    Hyson shook his head, "Not really. That''s just a small part of your life. Mu Chenyan herself is a stupendous woman. I can''t possibly describe your qualities in words. And neither can I tell you why I respect and admire you so much. But one thing is for sure, if there is any other woman I love apart from my mum, that''s you."

    Mu Chenyan paused when she heard him say that. She felt her heart brimming up with a warm feeling because of his words. It was clear that she neither had a blood rtion with Hyson nor with Raelle. But at the end of the day, if anyone asked her, she''d say these two were her life.

    If someone told Mu Chenyan when she was in her rebellious phase that one day she''d make two kids her whole life, she would beat that person up. But now the irony was that it became true. She who used to stay far away from kids had ended up meeting Raelle and then Hyson. And these two peculiar kids managed to ensnare her.

    "If you continued to talk like this, I might start crying," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Then I''ll quote Raelle''s words." Mu Chenyan raised her brow at him as he continued, "''If you cried, you''ll get dehydrated.''"

    Mu Chenyanughed out loud at Hyson. And seeing her, Hyson couldn''t help smiling as well. He thought it was really easy to make Mu Chenyan happy. But he didn''t know that it was only easy for him. Others didn''t have such an easy time with Mu Chenyan. Most would hardly dare look straight at her much less being so rxed to joke around with her.

    "Yanyan," called out Hyson in a serious tone.

    "Hm?"

    "Do you think mum misses her family?" asked Hyson.

    Mu Chenyan''s eyes widened a little when she heard this question. But she soon understood why he asked this question now of all times. The way Yue had reacted the two times she saw Zhai Yanjun must have been a stimnt to remind Hyson that whether he liked it or not, his mother still valued her past and her family. And unfortunately, even Mu Chenyan could do nothing about it.

    Anyone could see that Yue was truly happy to see Zhai Yanjun whether it was before or today. It definitely showed that she had missed him. But Mu Chenyan couldn''t me her for that either, she already learned how Yue had taken care of Zhai Yanjun for four years. And if the incident of that year hadn''t happened, she might have been the one to raise Zhai Yanjun as well.

 Chapter 305 - Pinch His Cheeks

    After thinking about it a little, Mu Chenyan answered him, "Can you me her?"

    Hyson looked at him incredulously.

    "Don''t you love your mum the most in this world?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "I do," answered Hyson.

    "Don''t you say that we are a family to you? Me, Raelle, and even Elder Xiang?"

    "I don''t just say it. You guys are the only family I have," said Hyson. "And no one can change that."

    "But just imagine, something unexpected happens. And circumstances force you to take a step back from us. Whether it''s Raelle or even your mother." Mu Chenyan spoke patiently with him, trying to make him understand. "Do you think the distance between us would be enough to make the love you have for us be any lesser?"

    Hyson fell into contemtion. It was right to say that Hyson had never thought of parting from Raelle or even his mother. For him, he always had this family in his future. Although he never liked doing future nning, he still hoped to be with this family till the end of time. But if something really forced him to part from them...

    He didn''t know whether there was anything that could them apart but he knew one thing, he''d miss all of them. And no amount of time could change his feelings for them.

    As he understood this point, he also started to understand his mother a little better. He could understand her feelings. Although his understanding of those feelings was somewhat shallow because he had never really experienced it on his own. And neither did he wish to experience it.

    "But mum''s family hurt her," argued Hyson sulkily.

    "There are a lot of things we seem to forget when ites to family," said Mu Chenyan. "Even if it hurts, sometimes we have to let it go because it''s family."

    "I can''t forgive them for what they did to my mum," said Hyson sternly.

    "How do you know they did something?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "Well, I don''t," answered Hyson. "But I''m not a kid. I can understand that the reason why my mum had to raise me all on her own must be because her family hurt her."

    "Why don''t you assume that it''s your father who hurt her instead?" Mu Chenyan looked at him inquisitively. She was trying to probe his mind.

    "It''s not him," replied Hyson firmly. "I don''t know about the situation between my mum and... that man. But I do know that he didn''t her. In fact, I strongly believe, he doesn''t even know I exist."

    Mu Chenyan was taken aback but she soon calmed herself. This boy was just as keen as his best friend. No wonder words were rarely needed between him and Raelle. They both could understand each other quite well.

    "Even if her family hurt her, it has nothing to do with Zhai Yanjun," said Mu Chenyan changing the direction of the conversation again. "He was maybe about five years old when everything happened. So, tell me, how can she me him for anything? And since he had been a part of her life, it''s not wrong for her to be so excited to see him. Even I feel nostalgic when I see you even though I watched you grow up. And in her case, she is meeting him after over twenty-five years. Some buried feelings would definitely surge up."

    Hyson nodded his head, "You''re right. Maybe I''m just thinking too much. I should keep myself away from her past. Since I don''t know the situation back then, I have no right to judge my mum''s feelings."

    "As always, my cutie is quite understanding," Mu Chenyan couldn''t help saying and focused on the work at hand.

    Hyson pulled out his phone and recalled something, "Yanyan, do you know where Ellie is?"

    Mu Chenyan''s face darkened when she heard that, "Don''t remind me. I''m already upset that she didn''t tell me before leaving."

    "But where did she go?"

    "She went to Xian," answered Mu Chenyan. And while saying this, her mood was actually brightening up. "She went to give her husband a surprise. My Elle is growing up."

    Hyson gaped at her, "Are you serious? She left work to go to Xian Ge?" Mu Chenyan nodded her head. "Wow! She is really growing up then."

    "I know, right?" responded Mu Chenyan.

    While Hyson was still trying to digest what he just learned. When did his best friend learn to stray away from her principles? It was something to celebrate!

    Looking at thest photo he clicked of his birds, he decided to post it on his social media ount. Lately, his fans had been fed well. After all, Hyson who never liked being active on social media sites was actually posting every other day. Now, it was different that all his posts were about his dear birds. And today was no different.

    He posted a picture along with a status which read: ''It''s a goodbye, my dear Cotton and Candy. I wish you all the happiness. Stay happy, wherever you are. *sad emoji*''

    Just as he posted,ments and likes started pouring in.

    Commenter 1: [It seems Xiao Gege''s birds are leaving him. But to where?]

    Commenter 2: [Xiao Gege seems sad. Even I''ll miss these birds.]

    Commenter 3: [Although Xiao Gege seems sad, why do I find him even more adorable?]

    Commenter 4: [Commenter above, you''re right. I can already imagine Xiao Gege puffing his cheeks adorably! Aiyah! So cute!]

    Commenter 5: [Don''t say that. Now, I so want to pinch his cheeks!]

    Hyson''s lips twitched when he read the first fewments and instantly logged out of his ount. These fans were always after his cheeks. He''d never let them touch his cheeks. Only his family could do that!

    Now, he was wondering why he even started posting on his ount? Ah! It was because when he informed his fans about his health, everyone called his Cotton and Candy cute. And he thought his birds were so cute that everyone should fall in love with them as he did. So, he as a big fool actually started posting their updates.

 Chapter 306 - Little Prince Is Broke?

    Hyson instantly fell in love with the candies that Mu Chenyan made for him. He couldn''t stop grinning from ear to ear at the sight of his candies in different shapes. There was a butterfly, a bunny, and even a bear.

    One would think that since the candies looked so good he might not have the heart to eat all the candies but the reality is always bitter. Hyson ate the candies with relish and didn''t even listen when Yue said his teeth would rot! Hyson didn''t give a damn about his teeth.

    When he was young, he didn''t get to eat sweet candies. Yue was always caring about his teeth. And back then, trying to be economical, he had actually told his mother that he didn''t like candies. Even when he saw all the other kids eating candies, he kept telling himself that he didn''t like sweet things.

    Perhaps, his younger self did end up believing his own lie that he didn''t like sweet things. But the older he grew, he couldn''t stop himself from having a sweet tooth. His sweet tooth was the reason that he always pestered Raelle for ice cream. But for eating ice cream, he had set a condition that the ice cream had to be bought by Raelle or else he won''t even look at it.

    Zhai Yanjun found Hyson to be more and more like a kid.

    "Fai, do you like it?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "I love it!" answered Hyson with a radiant face. "Thank you, Yanyan! You''re always the best!"

    Mu Chenyan couldn''t help ruffling his hair lovingly as she said, "Next time, I''ll blow you a sugar piece with my impable technique. It''ll look so life-like that you''ll fall in love with it."

    "Mm... I''m waiting!" said Hyson excitedly.

    Zhai Yanjun had seen all of this since Grandfather Xiang had asked him to stay. Since Zhai Yanjun''s grandfather always praised his grandson, Grandfather Xiang had always been intrigued to know more about Zhai Yanjun. Thest time when he came, they didn''t get the chance to have a good chat. But this time was different since both of them had time.

    And it had to be said that Grandfather Xiang found Zhai Yanjun to be quite likable. Perhaps, it was because Zhai Yanjun was an army man which reminded Grandfather Xiang of his old days, or perhaps it was because Zhai Yanjun had been raised by his grandparents, but whatever the reason was the result was that Grandfather Xiang had lots and lots of things to talk with Zhai Yanjun and he quite enjoyed spending time with him.

    He could see his friend''s image in Zhai Yanjun and nodded his appreciation. Indeed, this young man deserved the praises his grandfather always shower him with.

    Zhai Yanjun was even there when Raelle had called Grandfather Xiang and he even got to hear the ''lecture'' that Mu Chenyan gave Shui Xian.

    And he couldn''t help feeling pity for Shui Xian for a minute but that onlysted for a minute. After that, he was really feeling happy to see Shui Xian going through this lecture. He could even imagine Shui Xian''s face at the moment which put him in an even brighter mood. He was really a good friend who wouldugh seeing his good friend without any scruples and why not? Shui Xian had way too many moments tough at him in the past!

    He only got his chance today!

    "You seem to be avoiding me," said Zhai Yanjun to Hyson when he finally got the chance to sit alone with Hyson.

    Hyson looked up at him before shrugging his shoulders, "I have no reason to do that. But I don''t think we are familiar enough either for me to sit down and chat with you."

    "That''s true," agreed Zhai Yanjun. "You actually make me feel quite envious."

    "Envious? Why?" asked Hyson.

    "You have a good rtionship with everyone around you and it seems it''s quite easy for you as well," said Zhai Yanjun. "Whether it''s Granduncle Xiang, Miss Mu, Raelle, or even your mother. You seem really close to all of them."

    "Aren''t we supposed to be close to family?" Hyson asked him with his eyes focused on his expression. There wasn''t a single change on Zhai Yanjun''s face that could be missed by Hyson''s keen gaze.

    "Maybe," answered Zhai Yanjun uncertainly. He really wasn''t sure about Hyson''s answer. "Although I don''t have friends, I have colleagues and acquaintances. And I have never seen any of them having such a cozy rtionship with their families. Now, take even Xian as an example. He is neither that close to his father nor his sister."

    Hyson looked at him inquisitively, "You talked about others. What about you?"

    Zhai Yanjun stilled when he heard that question. He always felt ufortable talking about his family. In fact, there was a time he felt repulsed by the thought of family. It changed as he grew up and joined the military. Now he wasn''t the kid who would easily get scared but he was still that kid at heart who felt insecure and uneasy whenever his family was mentioned.

    "I''m close to my grandparents," he told Hyson with a sincere smile. "They both are precious to me."

    Since he didn''t bring up his parents, Hyson tactfully chose not to ask about them either. He never liked it when people asked about his father. And since he didn''t like it himself, he wouldn''t make Zhai Yanjun ufortable with his questions.

    Even if he was certain that Zhai Yanjun was his mum''s nephew, he had no feelings regarding this information. He neither wanted to get too close to him to learn about his family situation nor did he want to be cold to him to put the me for whatever happened to his mum.

    "You have a beautiful mother," Zhai Yanjun suddenly said to Hyson. "She is nice. In fact, she seems too good to be true."

    "But my mum ims she isn''t any different from other mothers," said Hyson.

    "No way! She is different but in a good way," argued Zhai Yanjun. "In this era, the mothers who genuinely care about their kids are rare."

    Hyson frowned when he heard that but he didn''t argue with him. Because just thinking about Raelle''s mother already made him believe in Zhai Yanjun''s words. Indeed, not all mothers cared about their kids. Some would even abandon them for the sake of their own happiness.

    People say children are the happiness and yet, they don''t take a moment before abandoning them in the pursuit of happiness. After all, kids have always been a hindrance for modern people.

    "By the way, can I get your autograph?" asked Zhai Yanjun out of nowhere surprising Hyson.

    "Why?"

    "I heard you''re really popr," said Zhai Yanjun. "People say military men are uncouth and know nothing about trends. I think I can get a girlfriend if they find out I know a popr idol."

    "I don''t think I have that appeal," said Hyson.

    "But I think you do," answered Zhai Yanjun. He pulled out his phone and showed it to him, "See how popr you are. You only posted that photo of your birds like an hour and a half ago and there are already thousands ofments and likes are reaching millions."

    "You''re following me?" asked Hyson in surprise.

    "I am," said Zhai Yanjun as he smiled sheepishly. He didn''t want to bring up the topic of how he looked up everything about Hyson online. He spent quite a while doing his ''research.'' "Why? I can''t do that?"

    "No," said Hyson. "I''m just surprised that you even have the time to open a social media ount."

    "I don''t use it that often," told Zhai Yanjun. He was definitely not gonna tell him that he just registered his ount to follow him. Just the idea that Hyson might be rted to him had made him excited. He obviously wished that Yue was really his aunt and with that, he''ll get a little cousin like Hyson as well.

    Since Zhai Yanjun had been an only child in both his paternal and maternal families, he had never had a sibling or even a cousin. So the idea of getting one was quite novel to him. He subtly wanted to approach Hyson and didn''t want to impose their rtionship.

    Hyson actually found his changing expressions to be quite interesting. He smirked before throwing his head back and sighing, "A Captain like you should not admire unemployed idol like me. I''m like the useless waste right now with no work on my hand."

    "When did My Little Prince be so sentimental?" came Grandfather Xiang''s voice.

    Hyson pouted at Grandfather Xiang, "How can I not be emotional? Don''t you know about the entertainment industry? Even if you have fame today, tomorrow a new sun will rise up. It''s all about ups and downs."

    "Say a word, I''ll make people line up before you with offers," said Mu Chenyan imposingly.

    "Yeah. Although I''m old, don''t underestimate what I can do," Grandfather Xiang chimed in.

    Hysonughed out at that, "Aww! I love you guys but even if I really be unemployed, I won''t go broke!"

    "Well, how can my little prince even go broke?"

    "Exactly!"

    Zhai Yanjun watched them y out their act. Suddenly, Yue extended her phone to him. He saw the phone screen and read her words, ''Don''t pay attention to them. All three of them love to act their y when they have nothing better to do. Just enjoy yourself with their nonsense.'' Zhai Yanjun''s smile grew bigger when he read that.

 Chapter 307 - Doesnâ€™t Count

    Raelle woke up early in the morning as usual but she couldn''t get out of the bed because of her clingy husband who still had his arms tightly wrapped around her. She had to carefully move his arms away from her body.

    Looking out the window, she found that it was still raining. Besides, she wasn''t familiar with this town. So, she couldn''t go outside for her morning run. But that didn''t make her feel likezing around.

    When Shui Xian woke up, he found Raelle meditating. She looked like she was in her own realm, away from the noisy world. Just looking at her made anyone feel calm. At least, Shui Xian felt that way strangely. She was still wearing his clothes since she didn''t have any of her. Shui Xian decided to get up and look for some clothes for her first thing in the morning.

    As Shui Xian was dressing up to go out to look for some clothes for Raelle, he heard someone knocking at the door. Shui Xian opened the door and came face to face with Anna who he believed was the team leader of Raelle''s bodyguards.

    "Yes?"

    Anna pointed at the suitcase lying beside her feet as she looked at Shui Xian and told him, "This is Missy''s stuff."

    Shui Xian was surprised to hear that. Last night he was certain they had no suitcases. Where did thise from?

    As if knowing his confusion, Anna told him, "Miss Mu Chenyan sent this."

    Shui Xian was enlightened by that reply. Yes, how was it possible that Mu Chenyan won''t do something for Raelle. Since she knew Raelle came here, she must also know that she came empty-handed. And knowing how much she cared for Raelle, it wasn''t a surprise that she actually sent Raelle''s stuff to her.

    He took the suitcase and closed the door. Raelle also opened her eyes and stood up. She walked over and looked at the suitcase. She didn''t look surprised at all.

    "Yanyan sent your stuff," said Shui Xian as he opened the suitcase for her.

    "Hmm..." responded Raelle carelessly. "She must have asked someone to take a flight overnight to get this to me."

    Shui Xian sighed, "She really does all sorts of things for you."

    "You''re not wrong," agreed Raelle surprisingly. "I could have just bought everything I needed."

    As Shui Xian looked at her stuff, he shook his head, "I''m afraid, she was certain you won''t find the things to your liking here." He held up the bottle of shampoo in his hands as he went on, "See? Even the shampoo you use is customized. And let''s not talk about your clothes."

    Shui Xian wasn''t wrong. One of the reasons why Raelle rarely had any use for her pocket money had been that Mu Chenyan always prepared everything ording to her needs. Raelle was Mu Chenyan''s pampered baby girl, she worked extra hard to take special care of her needs. So whether it was her clothes or the shower gel she used, everything had been customized to suit her.

    Raelle browsed through the things she sent as she said, "But it''s not like I don''t buy clothes which are not customized. Didn''t I go shopping with youst time?"

    "Still," started Shui Xian. "I''ve seen that you mostly own the customized clothes."

    "Well, I can''t disagree with that," said Raelle. "80% of my clothes are designed by Yue. The rest are either bought from those luxury brands'' limited editions or the ones I casually bought." She looked at Shui Xian and added, "In fact, Yanyan always tells me to buy more. She says I only know how to earn money but I should also know how to spend it as well."

    "She isn''t wrong," said Shui Xian. "But wait, did you just say that your clothes are customized by Yue? As in Yue Fai''s mom?"

    Raelle nodded her head, "Yes. Why? Something wrong with that?"

    "She is a designer?" asked Shui Xian in surprise.

    "How do you think she managed to raise Hyson on her own?" retorted Raelle.

    Shui Xian had a look of understanding on his face when he heard that from Raelle.

    "But I have to say, Yue really ruined her talent," added Raelle.

    "Ruined her talent?" asked Shui Xian curiously.

    "Instead of gaining fame as a famous designer, she chose to be a seamstress instead."

    "Why?"

    "Because she didn''t want to bring attention to herself," replied Raelle. "She wanted to be as low-key as possible. That''s why even when Yanyan proposed to help her get to the wider stage, she refused. I''m the only person she is willing to design clothes for. But she made plenty of traditional wedding gowns in all these years for people. Her fingers got pricked by needles while doing the intricate embroidery but she still chose to just do that."

    Shui Xian didn''t know the details of Hyson''s family and he didn''t feel right to probe around for it either. But he knew that Hyson only became because he wanted his mother to live afortable life. Now that he heard that Yue actually sew traditional wedding gowns for people for a living, he felt distressed.

    Just seeing the designs of Raelle''s clothes he knew how talented she was. She would have made a fortune if she used her talent. But she chose to live such an improvised life. Even though she was born in a big family and grew up as a young miss. He felt quiteplicated about this.

    Raelle ced her hand on his shoulder to get his attention, "Don''t frown so much. It isn''t that bad. It used to be worse for her." Shui Xian raised his brows at her inquisitively. "Even though she designs clothes for me, she always refuses to take money from us. She always uses our words against us that we are family and money should not get involved in the family. Even when Yanyan threatened her, she still didn''t take money. So, Yanyan just used that money on Hyson''s schooling. But now it''s a different case."

    "Why is she like that? She could have lived so much better," said Shui Xian.

    "That''s what Yanyan used to say as well. But Yue lost a lot more than just her voice." Shui Xian''s heart shook for some reason when he heard her say that. "Yanyan told me that Yue lost her confidence along with her voice. She was a prouddy from a big family and the next moment, she was thrown out of the house. A lot was taken from her with her voice. Her pride, her confidence, and even her reason to breathe." Raelle observed the way Shui Xian''s face looked so sad as she added, "If it wasn''t that she found out she was pregnant, it''s hard to say whether she''d have been willing to live or not."

    "And that''s why she doesn''t want to draw any attention to her," said Shui Xian.

    "True. But now one of the reasons is that Hyson is a famous person. She knows very well that people would point fingers at him for her shoring. That''s why she asked Yanyan for a favor to make sure no one is able to know anything about Hyson''s family or background."

    "She also does all sorts of things for Hyson," Shui Xian couldn''t help saying.

    "Yes, she is like that. Almost like Yanyan," said Raelle. "Buttely, Yanyan has been trying to trick her."

    "How?"

    "By using Hyson," answered Raelle. "Since the time Opa told Yanyan to do some work to keep herself busy. She has been trying to trick Yue. She even told Yue that she won''t have to stand in the limelight since Yanyan would create the image of a mysterious and genius designer for her. She even said she can work from her. All Yue has to do is sketch some designs and give instructions on how to prepare everything."

    "Yanyan is a good friend. She really wants Aunt Yue''s talent to shine," said Shui Xian.

    "I think Yanyan might seed this time around," was Raelle''s opinion. "Because Yanyan said Hyson needs a backing. If people would know he is rted to the mysterious designer, it''ll help Hyson''s career. And this bait is better than anything Yanyan had tried in the past decade. After all, for Yue, Hyson is at the top of her priorities. If it''s to provide support to her son, she''d do anything."

    Yue had always been an ideal mother in Raelle''s opinion. She had always said that if there was a concept of what a mother should be like, she always would say only Yue Yue''s name because Raelle had never seen a mother like her. In fact, she hardly believed there was any other mother like her. And Hyson would always agree with that. Because for him, his mother was always the best. But that''s what every child would say so his opinion doesn''t really count.

 Chapter 308 - Hand Signs

    "You are sure Yanyan would seed in tricking Aunt Yue this time around?" Shui Xian asked again for confirmation. Since he learned how much his mother loved and cared about Yue Yue, he wished to do something for her. But he didn''t know what to do at all. However, he was certain that he wanted Yue Yue to spread her wings and soar.

    "I''m absolutely sure," answered Raelle as she took her clothes and walked to the bathroom. Looking back, she added, "The incident with Hyson this time around has already made Yue realize that she has to do something for her son. After all, she doesn''t want Hyson to hide behind me. Although she knows anyone of us will always be there for Hyson, she still wants to take a stand for her son."

    Then she walked into the bathroom to take a shower and change her clothes. Shui Xian sorted her things and sat down on the sofa. He was wondering how Mu Chenyan managed to convince Yue Yue toe out of her hiding. But he was thankful for it as well. It seemed Mu Chenyan was even more surprising than he expected her to be.

    Then he took out his phone and scrolled through his messages. Well, sincest night he had received over twenty messages from Zhai Yanjun. Shui Xian was wondering why Zhai Yanjun sent so many messages and when he read through them, he was speechless.

    Each message described how he spent his day with Yue Yue, Grandfather Xiang, Mu Chenyan, and Hyson. Shui Xian knitted his brow and shook his head but he wasn''t gonna say anything to Zhai Yanjun for this. After all, it had been a long time since Zhai Yanjun actually detailed him about how he spent his day.

    There was a particr message that caught Shui Xian''s attention.

    Jun: [I was driving home when I passed by the book store, I don''t know why but I parked the car and bought a book to learn hand signs. Do you think this is enough?]

    Then another message was sent about half an hour after that one.

    Jun: [How about you get some tips from your wife? She knows signnguage, I''m sure she''d have some tips for me.]

    The message hade at midnight but Shui Xian only saw it and replied, [Why do you want to learn signnguage?]

    He thought he''d have to wait but the answer from Zhai Yanjun came almost instantly.

    Jun: [As if you don''t know why I want to learn signnguage.]

    Xian: [Maybe I really don''t know.]

    Jun: [You''re acting dumb.]

    Xian: [I am acting dumb.]

    Jun: [*angry emoji*]

    Jun: [Bro, I want to talk to Aunt Yue!]

    Shui Xian wasn''t surprised by that answer. His lips curled up as he typed, [You recognized her?]

    This time Zhai Yanjun took a while to reply. Just when Shui Xian thought that he won''t reply, Zhai Yanjun''s call came.

    "So, you already knew she is my aunt?" came Zhai Yanjun''s voice from the other side as soon as Shui Xian picked up the phone. "Xian! Say something, damnit!"

    "It''s so not like you to curse," said Shui Xianzily.

    "I don''t care," retorted Zhai Yanjun. "I just want to know how do you know about Aunt Yue?"

    "B¨¤ told me," answered Shui Xian. "But I already felt like I knew her when I first met her. Although thest we met her was when we were about four, I have seen her pictures. Since mom was so close to her, she always opened old albums to look through whenever she missed her. It took me a while to recall it only because, after mom, no one really opened that old stuff."

    Zhai Yanjun went silent for a while. And after a moment, he said softly, "She still loves me."

    "How do you know that?"

    "I can feel it," retorted Zhai Yanjun. "The way she looks at me told me that she really missed me. And just that thought alone is enough to keep me happy for a while."

    "Yanjun, it''s better if you don''t tell anyone in your family about her," said Shui Xian. "First of all, I don''t think anyone from your maternal family cares. Secondly, we aren''t certain about the incident that forced Aunt Yue to hide from everyone."

    "I''m not an idiot," said Zhai Yanjun. "I can see the apprehension in her eyes. She is afraid that I''d tell someone about her and that''s why she isn''t even openly epting her rtionship with me."

    "Why do I feel like you''re sulking?" asked Shui Xian in amusement.

    "I am," Zhai Yanjun actually epted it readily. "She is my aunt and I have to find excuses to see her. Isn''t that unfair to me? And Yue Fai is my cousin but he looks so guarded around me."

    "Fai is like Raelle," told Shui Xian. Raelle had juste out of the bathroom when she heard him say that. Shui Xian also lifted his eyes and they looked at each other. But Raelle wasn''t curious about what this was all about, so she went to dry her hair without paying him any attention. Meanwhile, Shui Xian continued, "They both are like hedgehogs. Always keeping their thorns erect. It''s hard for them to trust people. The only reason Fai is like that towards you is that he doesn''t trust you."

    "But I think he mes me," said Zhai Yanjun. "Although I don''t know what happened with Aunt Yue, I''m certain it wasn''t anything good. My maternal family doesn''t even talk about her. If I hadn''t asked grandfather, I would have even forgotten that I have an aunt as well."

    "He doesn''t me you," said Shui Xian. "From what I know about Fai, he isn''t an unreasonable person. He won''t hold you ountable for something you didn''t do."

    "You seem close to him," said Zhai Yanun sourly. He was envious of how even Shui Xian seemed to know Hyson better than him. Even though Hyson was rted to him!

    "I won''t say I''m not close to him," replied Shui Xian. "He is a cute little brother. I really like him. But as for how I know him well, it is as I already told you. Raelle and Fai are best friends. They might act differently but deep down, they both have the same core. So, the more I understand my wife, the more I seem to understand her best friend as well."

    "Why are we not like that?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "Let''s notpare our friendship with theirs," was Shui Xian''s response. Even he would get envious of Raelle and Hyson''s friendship. So, he didn''t want to even think about it.

    "Well, at least you''re willing to say that what we have between us is friendship."

    "Forget about that. Just remember my words. Don''t let anyone from your family know that you met Aunt Yue," reminded Shui Xian once again.

    "Xian, I heard that the first time you said it," replied Zhai Yanjun. "I just want to dig into the past."

    Shui Xian looked over at Raelle before he asked, "Do you think it''s the right thing to do?"

    "What do you mean? I don''t even have the right to know what happened in my own family? I might be young back then to know the details but I am no more a child. I deserve to know what happened in our family that my own aunt had to leave us."

    "You just want to know why she left you."

    Zhai Yanjun pursed his lips before saying, "Well, that''s true. Don''t you think I''d have turned out to be a different person if she was in my life? I vaguely remember that I was a happy child when she was around."

    "I also heard that from B¨¤. He said both of us loved to cling to her like octopus."

    Zhai Yanjun had a small smile on his face but he suddenly lost it as he clenched his fists and said, "If not anything else, I have to know why she lost her voice. I''d do anything for that."

    Shui Xian thought about his words and secretly nodded his head. He also was curious about that and the reason why he didn''t ask Raelle was that he felt like she didn''t know it either. And neither did Hyson know about it.

    And he wasn''t wrong either. The only information Hyson and Raelle had was after the birth of Hyson. And the details of Yue''s life before Hyson''s birth were a secret that Yue never shared with anyone. Even Mu Chenyan wasn''t clear about the details. She only knew everything vaguely. But as smart as Mu Chenyan was she still knew better than others, she just never tried to probe Yue in detail because she didn''t want to hurt her.

    "I think the truth might end up hurting everyone," said Shui Xian.

    "I''m not afraid," answered Zhai Yanjun.

    "And what if the truth brought a storm that might destroy your family?"

    "It''s not like this family is any better now," retorted Zhai Yanjun. "Nothing can stop me from learning the truth."

    Shui Xian sighed out, "Then good luck! Let me know if I can help with anything."

    "Then I won''t stand on ceremony with you."

 Chapter 309 - You Liar

    Even after hanging up the call with Shui Xian, Zhai Yanjun was thinking about the mystery surrounding his aunt Yue. He had to start from somewhere but he couldn''t decide where to begin. But if he had to find anything rted to Yue Yue, he had to go to the Yue family.

    Because the Zhai family was just as oblivious to the truth as anyone else. So, he had to look for someone from the Yue family. His own mother was out of the question but his maternal grandparents...

    He feltplicated thinking about it. After all, Aunt Yue was also a member of the Yue family as much as his mother was. In fact, the current matriarch of the Yue family was actually Yue Yue''s birth mother who was just a stepmother to his own mother. However, it wasn''t that surprising to him anymore. When he first learned that his grandmother was actually his mother''s stepmom, he was shocked because both of them were closer than any real mother-daughter he had met. Now, it wasn''t even surprising to him that his grandmother actually took sides with his mother rather than her own daughter.

    Since all the answers were in the Yue family, he had to make a trip there. Just as he thought that he started packing his bag and went down. As he was about to step out, he bumped into someone. He looked up and paused.

    His father, Zhai Kuijun stood at the door and as he noticed the bag in his son''s hands, his brows quirked up, "I just came to see you and you''re already running away from home."

    Zhai Yanjun rolled his eyes at his father, "Why would I run away from you?"

    "How would I know?" retorted Zhai Kuijun. "Only you can give me the answer for that."

    "Why are you here?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "I''m not allowed toe to see my parents?"

    "I didn''t say that," said Zhai Yanjun.

    "Where are you going?" asked Zhai Kuijun thoughtfully. He felt like his son looked like he was eager to leave. But to where?

    "I''m going to Grandfather Yue''s ce," answered Zhai Yanjun without hiding anything from his father.

    Zhai Kuijun was surprised to hear that answer. Usually, they had to drag this son of his to the Yue Manor to see his grandparents. And now, he suddenly wanted to go on his own ord? Was the sun rising from the west today?

    He raised his hand to touch Zhai Yanjun''s forehead and frowned, "I don''t think you have a fever."

    Zhai Yanjun pushed his hand away saying, "I''m fine."

    "Then where did the thought of going to the Yue Manore from? You want to go all the way to Capital just to see your grandparents? I''m actually not able to believe that," said Zhai Kuijun straightforwardly. He held his arm and dragged him inside, "Let''s sit down and talk about it first."

    "What''s there to talk about?" asked Zhai Yanjun. "Can''t I miss my grandparents?"

    "Apart from your grandparents, your mother also lives there," reminded Zhai Kuijun as he made him sit down on the sofa. "And I am not very convinced when you just said that you miss your grandparents." He took a brief pause to add, "It sounds more like an excuse to me."

    Zhai Yanjun didn''t feel like arguing with his father. So, he changed the topic, "When did youe from Nanzhou? Weren''t you staying with General Xiang? You also said you''ll extend your stay to keep Min Gepany."

    "It''s your Min Ge who wanted toe to Kia City," answered Zhai Kuijun as he sprawled down on the sofazily. "I just sent him to the sanitarium beforeing home. He''ll be discharged in another week or so and then he''ll stay with us here. At least, until Hulines."

    "Min Ge is gonna stay at our ce?" asked Zhai Yanjun in a strange tone.

    "Yes," said Zhai Kuijun. "Why? Something wrong with that?"

    Zhai Yanjun bit his bottom lip and said, "It''s better that I go back to the dorms."

    Zhai Kuijun gave his son a thoughtful look, "You don''t have to do that. Wai might not evene." Zhai Yanjun raised his brow at his father, "She didn''te to see him at the hospital either."

    Zhai Yanjun was surprised to hear that. After all, Xiang Wai was Xiang Weimin''s sister. Although it seemed like they both really didn''t care about each other. He knew how much these two had been looking out for each other. So it was unexpected that when Xiang Weimin was in the hospital, Xiang Wai didn''t even make a visit.

    He shook his head to remind himself that it didn''t concern him.

    "I didn''t think my son had actually been hiding from his ex-girlfriend," said Zhai Kuijun with a smile on his lips.

    Zhai Yanjun sighed out, "You''re even avoiding your wife, why can''t I just avoid an ex of mine?"

    Zhai Kuijun pulled his ear, "You brat! How dare you throw it back at your own father?"

    "Stop trying to act strictly with me," said Zhai Yanjun not the least bit fazed by his father''s momentum. "You''re not cut out for this role of a stern father."

    Zhai Kuijun red at his son, "Argh! I can''t believe my own son isn''t even scared of me."

    "I respect you, isn''t that enough?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    Zhai Kuijun sighed out, "Maybe I should be content with this much." He thought of something and asked, "But on a serious note, you really are not gonna reconsider your rtionship with Wai?"

    "No," answered Zhai Yanjun firmly.

    "Tsk! Such a shame that is," said Zhai Kuijun. "But if it''s your decision I won''t say anything." He sat quietly for a while before saying, "I heard your mother made a visit to you."

    "Oh, so you''ve heard that."

    "Why did shee?"

    "Don''t you already know?"

    Zhai Kuijun closed his eyes briefly as he said, "I guess I do." He opened his eyes at looked at his son, "Since you asked her to leave, why are you going to look for her on your own ord."

    "I''m not looking for her," said Zhai Yanjun. "As I said, I''m looking for my grandparents."

    "And you think you''ll be able to avoid your mother?" asked Zhai Kuijun.

    "She doesn''t own me," responded Zhai Yanjun.

    "If only she also thought the same way," Zhai Kuijun shook his head helplessly. "But since you''re looking for your grandparents, it must be about something important."

    "I want to know something," said Zhai Yanjun. "There are some questions I have for them and I want them to clear it up for me."

    "Questions?" asked Zhai Kuijun in surprise. "My son, who likes to stay in his own world is actually curious about worldly affairs? Are you sure, you''re my son?"

    "It''s not funny, dad!" said Zhai Yanjun.

    "Okay!" Zhai Kuijun raised his hands in defense. "I was just curious. Why don''t you share a bit with your dad? Maybe I can help you a little?"

    Zhai Yanjun hesitated a little before his lips parted and he said, "I want to know about my Aunt Yue Yue."

    Zhai Kuijun was stunned to hear those words from his son. He sat up straight and stared at his son intently. He didn''t know how to respond for a moment. As he came around, he asked, "How do you know about Yue Yue?"

    Zhai Yanjun observed his father''s reaction and said, "When my mother came to me, she talked about her sister."

    Zhai Kuijun snorted, "You liar!" Zhai Yanjun looked at his father who seemed to be certain that he was lying about this. And indeed, he was lying but how did his father know that?

    "Why do you think I''m lying?" asked Zhia Yanjun incredulously.

    Zhai Kuijun ced his hand on his son''s shoulder and asked, "Son, do you remember what your mother did to you?"

    Zhai Yanjun''s jaw clenched, "I remember."

    "Then do you remember why she did that to you?"

    Zhai Yanjun shook his head. He remembered every single thing that left a wound on his heart from his childhood but he wasn''t clear about the details of a lot of things.

    Zhai Kuijun sneered, "She went to great lengths to make you forget about Yue, and you''re telling me she suddenly would actually talk to you about Yue on her own?"

    Zhai Yanjun was taken aback when he heard that from his father. He always wondered why his mother would treat him like that. He was her own son then why she was so cruel to him? And now, he was suddenly told that it was all because she wanted to him forget about her own sister? Why?

    "It doesn''t make sense," said Zhai Yanjun.

    "It never made sense to me why she chose to marry when she didn''t even love me, how can you make sense of what she did to you?"

 Chapter 310 - Learning From Hyson

    Zhai Yanjun spent a good amount of time staring at his father''s face when he heard that remark from him. He couldn''t help pondering over those words. Indeed, he also never figured out why his mother actually married her father?

    For status, wealth, and power?

    But the Zhai family was actually behind the Yue family when it came to all of those whether it was status, wealth, or power. There were only a few ns in the whole country who could contend with the Yue family when it came to those three things. So, it was obvious that Yue Lan didn''t choose Zhai Kuijun for any of it.

    And if one said she did it for love, Zhai Yanjun would only snort in contempt!

    It was true that his father loved his mother but saying that love was reciprocated was difficult. Especially for him, who had seen the rtionship between his parents. In fact, at times, he also felt like his mother actually looked down on his father. But he had nothing to prove that point.

    "Stop looking at me and tell me honestly how did you suddenly remember Yue?" asked Zhai Kuijun.

    Zhai Yanjun looked around trying to avoid this question. He didn''t want to lie to his father but he didn''t want to tell him the truth for now either. After all, he was smart enough to understand that Yue Yue didn''t wish for others to know about her whereabouts. And if he let it slip... What if she hid again? Where would he find her?

    Tapping his thigh, he asked, "Dad, have I been really close to Aunt Yue?"

    Zhai Kuijun nodded his head. "Yes, you were. In fact, your mother had someplications during the delivery and couldn''t take care of youter on. During that time, Yue always took care of you. There were even people who assumed she was your real mother, that''s how clingy you were to her. You wouldn''t eat anything unless you heard her voice."

    Zhai Yanjun couldn''t really recall any of that since he was too young but he happily epted it. In his heart, he thought if his Aunt Yue was sweet as now, he definitely would have been clingy to her. Even now, he wanted to act clingy around her.

    "Wait!" Zhai Kuijun suddenly realized something. "Why do I feel like you''re avoiding my question by asking your own question?"

    "What?" Zhai Yanjun cleared his throat. "No way. How can I do that, dad?"

    Zhai Kuijun narrowed his eyes at his son, "But I think I''m on the right track here. You are trying to avoid my question. What are you hiding?" He took a brief pause and added, "Did you by any chance... meet her? Or saw her somewhere?" Zhai Yanjun was surprised how his father caught on so soon. "Where did you see her?"

    "Dad, stop overthinking," said Zhai Yanjun. Seeing his grandma, he called out, "Grandma, look your son is here. See, how unfilial he is. Right aftering, he has started interrogating me but didn''t even bother to go to you to offer his greetings."

    Grandma Zhai''s brows knitted up when she heard her grandson talking like this as if he was inciting her to be angry with her own son. Then she looked at her son whom she hadn''t seen in months and felt like since her grandson wanted her to y, why not?

    Being the refined and elegantdy she had been, she didn''t yell at her son but said, "Oh, looks like my son also knows his old parents are still alive."

    "Mother, it''s nothing like that," said Zhai Kuijun as he stood up to hug his mother.

    "I think it is like that," argued Grandma Zhai as she put on airs making Zhai Yanjun amused to see it. "And how dare you try to interrogate my grandson? Who are you to dictate his life?"

    "Who said I want to dictate his life?" asked Zhai Kuijun and then he looked at his son. "And you little brat, stop trying to pit my mother against me."

    "Grandma, look at him!" said Zhai Yanjun. "He is even threatening me now."

    Grandma Zhai was taken aback for a minute when she saw her grandson acting like this. She knew her grandson well. And she had never seen Zhai Yanjun acting like this. Although there was nothing wrong here, she couldn''t tell what exactly changed here.

    As for Zhai Yanjun, he actually didn''t even realize that what he learned from Hyson, he was using it now on his grandmother to get her favor. And when he realized this truth, he was also surprised. When did he start following people?

    Just for her grandson''s sake, Grandma Zhai pulled Zhai Kuijun''s ear, "You, listen well! My precious grandson isn''t afraid of you. I''m still alive and always here for him. Let me see what you can do to him!"

    "I really lost favor," said Zhai Kuijun. "But mother, don''t you think I''m quite old now? Can you stop pulling my ear at this age? What will my son think about me?"

    Grandma Zhai looked at Zhai Yanjun and said, "Junjun, you think whatever you want to think. Don''t be scared of him. I''ll handle him well for you."

    Zhai Yanjun chuckled happily and nodded his head. And his grandmother was content to see her grandson smiling like this.

    "Mother, that''s unfair," Zhai Kuijunined. "I just asked him where he was going early in the morning. When he said he is visiting his maternal grandparents, I got curious about what he wanted to do there."

    "Oh..." Grandma Zhai was also surprised to hear that. She didn''t think her grandson was nning to visit his maternal grandparents. She remembered how Zhai Yanjun''sst meeting with his mother ended, so he brought it up, "Are you going to apologize to your mother there?"

    "Why would I apologize to her?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "For how you spoke to her when she came to meet you the other day," said Grandma Zhai.

    "Grandma, I already made it clear to you. She didn''te to meet me. She came to use to me again for her own purposes. I have no reason to apologize to her. And I won''t do it either," Zhai Yanjun sounded resolute when he spoke.

    Grandma Zhai didn''t continue this topic when she noticed how worked up Zhai Yanjun got just at the mention of his mother''s name. In fact, he stood up and said, "I''m going back to work." Just hearing about his mother again and again annoyed him so much that he didn''t even feel like visiting his maternal grandparents anymore. He needed to calm down first before taking another step.

    No matter how eager he was to find out the truth, he had to act rationally. And currently, he was definitely not thinking straight.

    Seeing his retreating back, Zhai Kuijun sighed out, "Mother, why did you mention Yue Lan?"

    "I..." Grandma Zhai had nothing to say actually.

    "Why do you forget that he hates her?" asked Zhai Kuijun.

    "She is his mother. A child can''t hate his own mother," argued Grandma Zhai.

    "Oh? Then you''re forgetting what his doctor said? Or are you forgetting why I had to send him to you? Or you''re also forgetting why he suddenly chose to join the military!"

    Grandma Zhai looked depressed when she recalled all of that. She didn''t forget any of it.

    "It''s not that I forgot," she began. "I just think he is mature now."

    "He is certainly mature. But that doesn''t mean he is willing to forgive his mother," said Zhai Kuijun. "I know you also dislike Yue Lan. And you are only trying to make sure that Yanjun can somehow connect with his mother. But it is not possible. Stop trying it."

    "I really messed up. He looked so rxed and I ruined his mood by bringing up Yue Lan," muttered Grandma Zhai. She knew how much her grandson yearned for motherly love. And she still hoped that he could get connected with his mother. Even though it looked impossible.

    Zhai Kuijun patted his mother''s shoulder, "I know you love Yanjun the most. No one thinks about for his good more than you. But he is old enough to make his own choices. It''s not our say. So, let''s allow him to spread his wings however he wants to."

    "You''re certainly old enough to lecture your own mother now, eh?" Grandma Zhai narrowed her eyes at her son who sheepishly scratched his chin.

    "It''s nothing like that. I just think we live in an age where it''s not right to make choices for our kids. Since they think they know what''s good and bad for them, then it''s our responsibility to just support them."

    "You''re right," agreed Grandma Zhai. "It''s just me who thinks he is still a kid who needs my protection. I often forget that he is a high-ranked military officer who is well respected."

 Chapter 311 - Hubby Is A Jerk!

    After getting dressed, Shui Xian and Raelle had breakfast together. Since he hadn''t been able to see his wife for days, Shui Xian definitely cherished every single moment spent with Raelle.

    And when his assistant, Ma Jin came to remind him that he had to get to work, Shui Xian was frustrated. His cold aura was so strong that Ma Jin felt like he was about freeze under this pressure. He had thought his Master Xian had been turning into an easy-going person but clearly, he thought too much. How could flowers bloom on this hundred-year iceberg? That was clearly his wishful thinking!

    However, he was actually wrong. Not only flower bloomed on this hundred-year iceberg, but this iceberg was also actually lost in the joy of the whole spring. And the reason why he seemed so cold right now was exactly that this assistant of his was trying to separate him from the person who was the reason for the spring in his life right now. How could he not be angry about that?!

    But he also knew that there was no other choice. He had to ept his fate since he was also helpless right now.

    "You leave first," instructed Shui Xian after he was done shaking Ma Jin to the core with his freezing pressure. "I''ll join you in a while."

    "Got it!" Ma Jin replied before hurriedly running away from him.

    As for Shui Xian, he turned back and looked at his wife who was looking out the window. He came to stand behind her and snaked his arms around her waist. "Baby, I have to go to work."

    Raelle raised her hand and touched his hair saying, "I know."

    "But I don''t want to go," said Shui Xian.

    "Then don''t go," responded Raelle calmly and patiently. But her words stunned Shui Xian. She actually said not to go to work!!! Was he hallucinating right now?

    There was no other exnation. He must be having auditory hallucinations now.

    "Babes, what did you just say?" he asked again to confirm whether it was really an auditory hallucination or not.

    Raelle turned around to face him. His arms were still wrapped around her figure. So when she turned around, their faces were actually really close to each other. Shui Xian had lowered his face and now he could see her face up close. This attack of the beauty from so close was fatal along with the words that followed.

    "I said if you don''t want to go then don''t go."

    Even when she repeated herself clearly, Shui Xian was in a daze. "Is someone finally answering my prayers? My darling is actually gonna act like an unreasonable wife and tell me toze around? Are you sure I''m not dreaming?"

    Raelle found his manner interesting and pinched his cheek before wrapping her arm around his neck as she told him, "Raelle Xiang is never unreasonable. Don''t expect so highly from me. You''ll be disappointed."

    "Oh," responded Shui Xian. "But didn''t my darling just told me not to go to work?"

    "That''s because I am capable of raising a husband," was Raelle''s reply. "I have worked for years. I certainly think I can support my husband." She sounded overbearing but she really had what it took to be overbearing. What she said was not wrong at all!

    Shui Xian''s lips stretched into a big arc as he lowered his face to make the tip of her nose press against his own. "Honey, you''re really capable. But this husband of yours also wants to be able to support you. If I don''t work, how will I pay the bill for the ck card I gave you?"

    "You mean my pocket money is at stake here?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian nodded his head.

    "Then you should definitely go!" said Raelle firmly making Shui Xian throw his head back andugh heartily. He couldn''t control it really. When it was about supporting him, she had all the money in the world to allow him toze around but when it came to her pocket money that actually came from his pocket, then she firmly set the rule that he had to go to work.

    "I can''t believe that just for pocket money, you''re actually willing to part with your husband," said Shui Xian.

    "Hubby, what do you want then?" asked Raelle. "When I say don''t go, you''re upset. When I say you should go, you''re stillining. What am I supposed to do? Why are you human soplicated? How is a person like me supposed to know what you really want me to stay? It''s not like I got the rule book."

    Shui Xian was even more amused by her words. He brushed the bridge of her nose gently with his eyes holding a doting light. "You''re also a human."

    "But I am not thatplicated."

    "Are you sure about that?" asked Shui Xian. "Because trust me, people around you would definitely have something to say about that statement."

    "You mean, I''mplicated to you?" asked Raelle as she held his gaze in seriousness. "Is it really difficult to understand me? But if it is, you can just ask me. I definitely will tell you anything you don''t understand about me. I won''t hide."

    Shui Xian smiled indulgently at her, "Indeed, my wife isn''tplicated. She is so simple that it worries me a lot."

    "Am I giving you worries?" asked Raelle and continued, "If it''s like that, why don''t you tell me what''s the worry. And what can I do to fix it?"

    "You don''t want me to worry?" was Shui Xian''s question.

    Raelle shook her head, "No. Yue said husband and wife should always share everything. Even their worries. So, if there is a worry, you can tell me. I might be of some help since you said I''m the source of the worry. Then I''d definitely have the solution."

    "Babes, there is no need for that," said Shui Xian. He sighed out heavily, "My only worry right now is that if I go to work, what will my beautiful wife do here?"

    "I''ll get some work done," replied Raelle.

    "Did youe here to work?" asked Shui Xian in a serious and displeased tone.

    "No, I came to spent time with you. But since you''re busy, I can''t just bother you."

    Shui Xian''s heart ached to see her being so reasonable and rational. What the hell! She was only in her mid-twenties! Wasn''t she supposed to be a little bit carefree?

    He kissed her forehead and said, "Since you left your work behind then, don''t get back to it. Go out to take a look. This town might not be as prosperous as big cities but it''s a beautiful ce. You''ll love it here."

    "I''ll go to look around when you have time," told Raelle. "That''s why I''m gonna get some work done so that when you have time, we can go out to check out. Don''t worry, since you said it''s a beautiful ce then I definitely want to see every single spot here."

    Shui Xian''s heart drummed in his chest. This silly girl wanted to go out only with him. But that''s also something expected from her. Since she came all the way here for him, she definitely won''t go around without him. It made him feel really happy and yet also distressed at the thought she was gonna lock herself in this room to work when he was no around. What a tragedy!

    He also noticed thattely when it came to her, he always had these conflicted feelings. She always made him feel happy and also feel sad at the very same time. It seemed she was right, even he was confused about himself.

    "Also, justst night you told me there are so many things you want to show me here. So, how can I just go out on my own?"

    Shui Xian sighed inwardly. He didn''t know what to say to her. He hugged her tightly as he said, "Wifey, why are you making it even more difficult for me to go out to work?"

    "When did I?" asked Raelle. She sounded confused. She was obviously feeling confused as well. She didn''t think she said anything to make anything difficult for him. But thinking about her words always managed to hurt people, she asked, "Did I really make it difficult?" Shui Xian nodded his head. "Sorry!"

    "Tsk!" Shui Xian tsked at her apology. "Babes, can you not say sorry to me so easily? I''m really not used to it. Besides, it''s not like you did something that you have to say sorry for."

    "But didn''t you just say I made things difficult for you?"

    "Aiyah! That''s me being a jerk!" said Shui Xian. "Don''t take my nonsense so seriously."

    "My Hubby is not a jerk. Mind your words," responded Raelle making Shui Xian chuckle at her. Seriously, she was definitely paying attention to the wrong thing here!

 Chapter 312 - Iâ€™ll Listen To You

    Even after all that, Shui Xian stubbornly said, "I still don''t want to go."

    Seeing him acting like this, Raelle recalled something. She seemed to be familiar with the way he was acting since she had seen someone else doing it.

    "I think I know what you''re doing," she said.

    "What?" asked Shui Xian curiously. He looked so eager to hear her answer that it would be baffling to an outsider. But he didn''t think anything was wrong with it. After all, he was familiar with how his wife answered. How could it not be amusing? He was waiting to know where she was gonna take this.

    "You''re throwing a tantrum," was Raelle''s answer.

    Shui Xian pursed his lips before asking, "How do you know?"

    "Hyson does that when he wants an ice cream from me," told Raelle. "He told me that''s called throwing a tantrum."

    Shui Xianughed out, "Babes, I suddenly am curious."

    "About?" asked Raelle.

    "About what you and Fai actually talk about," said Shui Xian. "I feel like the topic of conversation between you two is quite diverse and intriguing." And what he didn''t say was that how they always had something to talk about with each other. Even if Raelle didn''t like to talk, she always had something to talk about with Hyson. Besides, he was certain that these two never talked about normal things. The way their brains worked, it was obvious that their world was slightly different from the rest.

    Raelle couldn''t deny that. The topics of conversation between her and Hyson never had a head or tail. They might begin from here and end it somewhere else. And the things they talked about might really be not interesting to others. It might be verymon to the rest of the people. Take throwing a tantrum for instance. It was considered normal for kids to throw a tantrum but when it came to Hyson and Raelle, these two didn''t understand it at all.

    After all, neither of them had acted like that in their childhood. They both had their own world and understanding of this world. The reason why Hyson would throw a tantrum for ice cream in front of her was simple. It was just to make her understand what actually a tantrum really was.

    "So, how did he give you the example?" asked Shui Xian. "Can you show me?"

    Raelle thought about it and pulled herself out of his arms. She stepped back to think a bit before she held his sleeve and spoke with a pout, "Get me ice cream. I want ice cream. You are a meanie! How can you not buy me one ice cream? If you don''t buy me one then I''m gonna protest right here on the road!"

    Shui Xian was staring at her dumbly and when she finished reenacting Hyson''s act, Shui Xian pulled her back and buried her face in his chest as he said, "Darling, you''ve some talent."

    "Huh?"

    "You actually managed to act out the role of Fai so easily," Shui Xian had a smile on his face when he said that. He was charmed by those vivid expressions on her expressionless face. She actually acted out perfectly. "Now, I''m reassured."

    "About what?" came Raelle''s muffled voice. And when she spoke, her lips actually rubbed against his shirt but he felt like there was no shirt in between her lips and his chest right now. Adding on that hot breath that blew out on his chest, he was tingly all over.

    "I always thought I''d never see any expressions on your face," said Shui Xian honestly. "But it seems you''re a good student. You can learn with time."

    "What is that supposed to mean? Didn''t I learn to smile to deceive people?" asked Raelle.

    "That''s different," said Shui Xian. "But if you actually showed these beautiful expressions in front of others, I might go crazy." He would definitely go crazy! That expressionless face alone was enough to attract people''s attention. Her whole persona demanded people pay attention to her in her presence. Not just because of her domineering aura but also because of her gorgeous face. And if she really started expressing her emotions on her face, it''d be a disaster. It was lethal for his heart for sure!

    "Aren''t you gettingte?" asked Raelle.

    "Sweetheart, why do you have to ruin the moment?" Shui Xian was depressed again when she reminded him that he still had to leave. And no matter what he tried, that was inevitable! He couldn''t run from work since even his wife won''t let him do that. What a pity!

    But then again, who asked him to marry a workaholic. For Raelle, work was sacred. She''d never let him run away from it.

    "Although I''ve been ignoring ittely, I still have to ask."

    "What is it my waifu? You can ask me anything!" inquired Shui Xian as he put on his suit jacket.

    "Why do you keep calling me with different names? I don''t really see the point of nicknames. But if you have to have one, can''t you choose one?"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "Darling, I''m a confused person. When ites to you, I don''t think one is enough. No matter which way I call you, it only means one thing."

    "What does it mean?"

    Shui Xian smiled mysteriously as he touched the tip of her nose and said, "That''s for you to find out."

    "Is that a puzzle I have to solve?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian had a thoughtful look as he arranged his things, "You can say that."

    "Oh, I like puzzles," said Raelle. "I''ll definitely find the answer."

    Shui Xian was amused by how serious she looked right now. It wasn''t even a riddle though but she looked so serious about it just because he said so. He could only sigh inwardly. How can one not love this cute genius? The best thing about this cute genius was the fact that she was oblivious to a lot of worldly affairs that involved emotions.

    And yes! Shui Xian meant it when he said that herck of emotions was the best thing about her. That''s because he knew it was not that she had no feelings, she was just oblivious about those feelings. Just the idea of exploring these different feelings with her was thrilling to him.

    "Babes, take your time," said Shui Xian as he touched her head. "You can take your time. I can wait for you to figure it out."

    "Don''t worry! I''m very good with puzzles, I can definitely figure it out," Raelle reassured him.

    "Emm..." Shui Xian made a noise of agreement. "I believe in you. I know my waifu can figure out anything she wants to." He picked up his bag to leave and said, "If you need anything, don''t hesitate and let me know. There is no need to wait. You can call me anytime you want. Stop always waiting for the time when I''m free."

    "I just don''t think it''s right to disturb you in the middle of the work," said Raelle.

    "But it''s your right to disturb me, didn''t anyone tell you?"

    Raelle shook her head, "I didn''t hear anything about that."

    "Aiyo! How can they not tell you that being a wifees with the privilege of having the right to disturbing your husband anytime and anywhere you want! There is no need to be so considerate."

    Raelle contemted his words, "Why do I feel like something is wrong with what you just said."

    Shui Xian cleared his throat, trying to hide the fact that he was indeed preaching wrong values to her. But he didn''t think there was anything wrong with that. If he wanted his wife to disturb him that was his own business! If he didn''t mind it, who cared what he taught her?

    "Oho! Darling, stop overthinking things. It''s not good for health. I know you''re a genius but there is no need to overthink everything in detail. Some things, you should ept as I say. Can you do that?"

    "If it doesn''t harm anyone, then why not," responded Raelle. "I''ll just listen to you then. I''ll stop waiting for the right time to call you. I''ll call exactly when I need to talk to you."

    Shui Xian was overjoyed when he heard that. Finally, he was teaching something right. Although the chances of receiving her calls randomly were rare, he''d take the chances. Even if he received only one unexpected call from her, he''d be over the moon and feel content with that. After all, that''d mean Raelle actually went against her own rules. And all that, just for his sake.

    He never thought it felt so good when someone did something for your sake. But now that he was faced with Raelle who actually did quite some unexpected things just for him, he couldn''t even describe the emotions he was going through. He knew he was happy but there was more to this happiness. Something that was even very new to him.

 Chapter 313 - How Evil!

    As Shui Xian got ready to leave, he walked towards the door but after only a step, he stopped. Looking back at Raelle, he said, "Then, I''m leaving now."

    "Okay," said Raelle.

    He took another step further before stopping to look back at her yet again to say, "I''m really going."

    "Okay," responded Raelle yet again in the same way.

    He wilted like a flower before he stepped over to the door. His hand was ced on the doorknob but before twisting it open, he turned his head back to look at Raelle and saying, "I''m almost gone."

    "Okay," Raelle didn''t know how else she could reply to him.

    His unwillingness to leave was so obvious that even an oblivious person like Raelle could feel it. But she really didn''t know how to respond in this situation. After all, this was so new to her. If one had to go to work, what could she do about it? ording to her understanding, one should work diligently.

    Shui Xian stepped out the door but before the door behind him could close, he pushed it open and grinned at her, "I''m gone!"

    Raelle felt like the corner of her lips was twitching at seeing him acting like this. What was her husband up to exactly?

    "Hubby, do you know what''s happening right now?" asked Raelle as she crossed her arms against her chest and looked straight at him with deep eyes.

    "What?" inquired Shui Xian curiously.

    "Your image in my mind is copsing," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian pressed his lips together but couldn''t help himself from chuckling. "Wifey, it took so long for that? I thought my image already copsed from the time we came back from our impromptu honeymoon."

    "I was holding on to the image of yours people talked about. After all, you got quite some reputation in the circle but now, I have no way to ept that reputation," said Raelle in all seriousness.

    "This is all your fault," grumbled Shui Xian. "Originally, I was true to the reputation I have but since you walked into my life, I''m in a mess. Right now, my only mission is my wife. Why would I care about something like keeping an image?"

    "Are you going or not?"

    Shui Xian''s shoulders slumped down as he nodded, "I''m going."

    Raelle looked at the closed door with a thoughtful look. Suddenly, there was a knock at the door. She walked over to open the door. There was no one standing outside. She was about to look sideways when suddenly her vision nked and soft but cold lips were pressed against hers.

    Just with the scent of the cologne, she knew who it was. Apparently, it was really not easy to send Shui Xian off to work today. He again came back to cause trouble like this. He held her against his chest and kissed her deeply. As he pulled away, he looked pleased with himself.

    "Can you taste it?" he asked.

    "What am I supposed to taste?"

    "My yearning for you," said Shui Xian cheesily.

    "I can''t taste that," replied Raelle seriously.

    Shui Xian tsked at that. "How can you say that?" Shaking his head, he said, "But it''s okay. I have plenty of time to make you understand this taste."

    "Did you juste back for this?" asked Raelle.

    "Nope," said Shui Xian. "I forgot to tell you something."

    "What?" inquired Raelle.

    "I''ve been meaning to say it since I saw you," added Shui Xian.

    "What?"

    "Do you know?" he further added annoyingly.

    But Raelle patiently and calmly continued to ask, "What?"

    "I missed you," he told her as his lips pressed on her forehead. "Just now when you opened the door for me, I really felt happy. And it''s because that I missed you so much that I''ve been acting so strange. Do you understand what I mean?"

    "Not really," answered Raelle honestly. "But it doesn''t matter. I felt good to hear it."

    "You felt good?" Raelle nodded her head. "Then that''s all that really matters." He yed with a strand of her hair and added, "It''s the first time in my life I''m being so clingy to someone. I honestly can''t even understand myself right now."

    "I don''t mind," said Raelle.

    "And what if you got tired of me being like this?" asked Shui Xian.

    "I know myself," she told him. "I don''t have a habit of getting tired of things I like."

    "Does that mean you like me?" he asked cheekily.

    "Yes," epted Raelle straightforwardly that left Shui Xian in a daze.

    He cursed under his breath and said, "I better leave, or else I''m never gonna be able to leave."

    Raelle turned him around and gave him a push, "You should really leave."

    Shui Xian sighed heavily and walked away but even when until he reached the elevator, he kept turning his head back to look at her. And seeing her still standing at the door, looking at him he was pretty satisfied. He felt like he was floating high up in the sky.

    Outside of the hotel, the people he was supposed to meet today were asking his assistant Ma Jin, "Assistant Ma, when is Master Xianing?"

    "He''ll be here soon," answered Ma Jin while cursing his luck.

    "Why don''t you give him a call as a reminder," suggested one of the middle-aged men with a beer belly.

    Ma Jin shuddered when he heard that. He could still remember the chill that Shui Xian left on him with his eyes earlier. He didn''t dare to try to call him and rushing him toe down. He still wanted to live a few more days, thank you very much!

    Thankfully, Shui Xian didn''t put him in a difficult situation and soon joined them downstairs. But when everyone looked at the radiant look on his face, they were startled. Today''s Master Xian was a whole different story. He was beaming while whistling a random tune. For once, he looked like a young man.

    Or else, even these middle-aged men had been wondering if there lived an old soul in this young body. Even they didn''t dare talk rashly with Shui Xian because of his strong and chilly momentum. And in the past two weeks, he looked like he was brooding. Especially when the days of work here were extending it looked like a strong pressure from him was trying to crush everyone.

    There was no one in as much hurry to get work done around here as Shui Xian and every single one of them had already noticed this point.

    "Master Xian, you''re here," a middle-aged man stepped up to greet him with a polite smile. "You look in a good mood."

    "Oh, is it that obvious?" inquired Shui Xian not even trying to hide his happiness.

    Ma Jin was in shock at the side. He could still remember the brooding air around Shui Xian but now his boss was like stepping on clouds. He looked so happy and bright that it even hurt Ma Jin''s eyes.

    "I wonder if something good happened to Master Xian," asked another middle-aged man from the side.

    "That''s true. Something really good happened," told Shui Xian.

    "What is it?" They couldn''t hide their curiosity.

    "My wife came to give me a surprise," said Shui Xian proudly. "She even didn''t care about the rain and ran over to see me. How can I not be happy?"

    All of them felt like they ate lemons. They felt sour! And it also felt like Shui Xian was deliberately shoving these lemons down their throats. How evil!

    "Doesn''t it seem like Master Xian is showing off right now?" Two of the people in the group whispered in a low voice.

    "He is actually showing off," agreed the other person.

    "I never knew he had such a childish side to him," said the first person.

    "Isn''t it good? He is still in his twenties. He should have some youthful side to him," responded the other person. Recalling something, he looked shocked, "But wait! When did Master Xian got married? Did you hear anything about that?"

    "No," the other one also shook his head. It was such a piece of huge news howe they missed it? He thought of something and added, "Maybe he isn''t really married. You know how young couples nowadays like to call each other husband and wife. It must be just his girlfriend."

    "That''s also possible," he agreed to that statement.

    They knew Shui Xian''s marriage was a huge deal. It couldn''t have been so silent if he really got married but they didn''t know that it wasn''t difficult for Shui Xian''s wife, Raelle Xiang to make sure everything stays quiet for as long as she wants.

    Shui Xian wasn''t aware of these spections and even if he did, he wouldn''t care. If anything, if he heard them specte that he wasn''t married he might have corrected them. Because for some reason,tely, he wanted to scream to the world that he married Raelle Xiang. How could he miss a chance to show off his perfect wife?

 Chapter 314 - Friendship Field

    "Aren''t you a little heartless best friend?"

    Those were the first words that Raelle got to hear from Hyson when she epted his video call. cing the phone at the side, she continued to type on herptop and said, "Didn''t you already know that I''m heartless? Why do you keep repeating it?"

    "Because I want to knock your conscious a little," stated Hyson as he huffed.

    "What if I don''t have a conscious as well?" inquired Raellenguidly.

    Hyson shook his head as he hugged his pillow and lied down on his stomach. His face came close to the camera as he said, "My best friend, there is no need to say that. What you are and what you are not, I understand it all." He took a pause to add, "What I am not able to understand is, you actually decided to take a flight to Xian Ge but I wasn''t told anything about that. I feel like I''m losing my importance in your life."

    "Do you really feel that way?" asked Raelle as she gave him a sideways nce.

    Hyson pursed his lips and cursed, "Can''t I lie a little? Why are you able to read my lies?"

    "You have this talent as well," said Raelle.

    "No, I don''t. After all, you don''t lie," reminded Hyson. "How am I suppose to check the uracy of my talent if you won''t even try to lie a little?"

    "Hyson, neither you nor I ever liked to built sandcastles. Then why do you think we have the need to build anything on lies? Aren''t lies also like sandcastles. The only difference is, the truth crumbles the castle of lies and in the case of sandcastles, that job is done by the waves of the ocean. But whether it''s truth or the waves of the ocean, both are mighty."

    "It''s been a while I got to hear something like this from you," stated Hyson. "Forget it. I am not upset that you didn''t tell me where you''re going before leaving."

    "I already know that," told Raelle.

    "How?" asked Hyson. "How do you know that I am not upset with you?"

    "You''re not capable of that," was Raelle''s response. As if that was the eternal truth. And it was actually the eternal truth. Hyson couldn''t get upset with Raelle. They both were just like that.

    "Fine, I really am not that capable," Hyson could only agree with her on this. He couldn''t deny her words. It was no use anyway. He''d only be dragging the time if he stubbornly tried to argue over this. What was the point? He''d be the good baby and happily tell the world that he was not capable of getting mad at his best friend.

    Seeing her concentrating on working, he raised his brow, "Did you go there to work?"

    "No, but what''s the harm in working while I''m here?"

    "That''s something only you''d say," said Hyson. "And where is Xian Ge? Why is he letting you work?" He took a pause and something clicked, "Don''t tell me you actually forced him to go to work."

    "Yes, I pushed him out," told Raelle without any hesitation. "Just because I''m here doesn''t mean he should bezy."

    Hyson sighed helplessly, "And this is also something only you''d do!"

    "Why do you state the obvious?" She took another nce at him when she saw him being so silent. Just one look and she understood, "What''s bothering you now?"

    "I''m feeling like a salted fish these days," he told her. "All I do is eat, eat, and eat some more. Thedies at home are stuffing me with food all the time. I''m going out of shape. I can''t even exercise in this condition. How am I supposed to deal with this mess?"

    "Just tell thedies what you told me," advised Raelle. "It''s not like they''d force you for anything."

    Hyson red at her, "Only you can heartlessly say that to them. How am I supposed to refuse their love? Do you know how much time and effort and love it takes to prepare one meal for me? When I finish everything, the satisfying look on their faces is priceless. It''s so precious. How can I refuse them of anything when I am willing to even offer my life to see that smile on their faces?"

    "Well, if you''re not willing to speak up for your own good then continue with what''s happening," said Raelle nkly. She didn''t understand his logic. The only thing she understood was that the twodies in their home were too precious. And he didn''t wish to hurt them. But that didn''t mean she agreed with what he was up to.

    "I know what''s going on in that brain of yours," said Hyson matter-of-factly. "I can almost hear your brain''s voice all the way here."

    "Brain doesn''t have a voice."

    Hyson scoffed at that, "Then how can you hear voices in your brain?"

    "The voice in my head belongs to me," stated Raelle.

    "Tsk. When will you understand it?"

    "If you want me to agree with your logic, then sorry. It''s never happening."

    "It''s really something to have a best friend like you," muttered Hyson in a small voice. "Anyways, I might go to visit my dorm."

    "Why?" inquired Raelle. "Didn''t the doctor say you have to rest properly. Stop taking your condition so lightly."

    "Aiyo! I''m just going for a visit. Just to see my group mates. They had been calling me. They want to see me and check up on me."

    "Then just send them your location," stated Raelle.

    "No way!" argued Hyson. "If I asked them toe to Xiang Manor, it''ll be troublesome. Both Yanyan and Mum are gonna start cooking a feast for them."

    "We have a professional team of chefs at home," reminded Raelle.

    "As if thosedies can understand that," retorted Hyson. "They feel like it''s better to cook with their own hands for such close guests to show sincerity. How am I supposed to handle that?"

    Raelle thought about this and agreed. On normal days, Mu Chenyan and Yue Yue would allow the chefs to arrange the meals but when it came to special guests, thesedies love doing the work.

    "Then you can send them the location of Shui Vi," said Raelle. "I think that''s better. You and I both know that Yanyan and Yue won''t allow you to go far. But if you tell them you''re just going next door, that''s a different story. I''ll just tell B¨¤, he''ll arrange everything at home for your friends."

    "Is that alright?" asked Hyson hesitatingly. "I don''t want to impose on him."

    "I think B¨¤ would love to have yourpany," said Raelle feeling certain of her words. "Since both Xian and I are here, he must be lonely. If you bring your friends there, he''d feel better."

    "I still don''t think it''s alright," said Hyson. "You''re not even there. In your absence, if I go there, it doesn''t sound right."

    "When did you be like this?" asked Raelle.

    "You know I don''t like bothering people," said Hyson.

    "But B¨¤ is not some people! He is B¨¤," Raelle spoke so simply that Hyson was speechless.

    Really, his best friend''s logic was out of ce as well. She just didn''t know it herself. But would he tell her about that? No way!

    "Oh, I was gonna tell you something," said Raelle.

    "What is it?" Hyson perked up and looked like he was looking for gossips.

    "Xian was talking to Zhai Yanjun this morning."

    "Oh? What about it then?"

    Raelle ced herptop aside and picked up her phone to look straight at him. "He bought a book to learn signnguage."

    Hyson went quiet for a moment when he heard that from her.

    "Do you understand what that means?" asked Raelle.

    "This long-lost son is really trying hard to steal my mum," said Hyson half-jokingly.

    "At least, he seems sincere enough," was Raelle''s opinion.

    "Yes, he is sincere," Hyson also agreed with that. "There is no falseness in the way he treats my mum. Even though they only met twice, I can see the impact they have on each other."

    "Don''t try to find trouble with him," Raelle said solemnly, "If I''m not wrong, he is gonna try to get close to you in the near future."

    "And? How should I treat him?"

    "If you find it alright, I don''t see the harm in getting acquainted with him."

    "You don''t even make friends but ask me to find friends?"

    "I have you," said Raelle.

    "And I also have you," reminded Hyson.

    "But you''re enough for me," added Raelle. "However, I don''t want to take up your whole world of friendship."

    "I''m the sole yer on your friendship field but you want to add more yers on my field? Why? Do you want them to fight with you for space?"

    Raelle gave him a look, "And you really think anyone is capable of taking what belongs to Raelle?"

    "Narcissist!" remarked Hyson. "But I love that about you!"

 Chapter 315 - Letâ€™s Play

    "I''m actually feeling really touched right now," said Hyson.

    "Why?"

    "Even though you are so far away, you''re still worried about me. Shouldn''t I be touched?" asked Hyson in return.

    "Only this is enough to please you?"

    "YES!" was Hyson''s response. It was more than enough for him actually. Not everyone could get Raelle''s worry. He was the special one for whom she was worried. How is it not pleasing? But forget it, if he said it out loud, will she understand it? No way! "Don''t think about me anymore. If Zhai Yanjun doese to me, I really won''t push him away. I''m just a good boy. How can I be rude to anyone?" His expression changed as he added, "The only condition is that his intentions are good."

    "I don''t think Mr. Soldier has any bad intentions," said Raelle. "Also, let me tell you something about him. I believe you should know."

    "What is it?"

    "He is a child with a troubled childhood. That means although he looks strong, he is quite sensitive."

    Hyson was quiet for a while before he looked at her, "Oh, then I''ll be especially nice to him."

    "That''s for the better," said Raelle.

    "Forget about all that and tell me what is wrong with you?" started Hyson. "I just looked it up online. The town you''re staying in is surrounded by the beauty of nature. It''s breathtaking even in photos. How can you lock yourself in a room and work? Go outside to look around!"

    "I''ll go with Xian," was Raelle answer.

    "Why am I not surprised?"

    "Because you know me well."

    Hyson smiled at her, "YES! I do!" He did know her well and that''s why he couldn''t argue anymore on this topic. She also had her stubborn moments. She won''t go to take a look without Shui Xian. "And for moments like these, I used to tell you to find some hobbies! Look, you even took time off but you have no idea how to spend your free time. Isn''t that pitiful?"

    "Is it?" she inquired. "I don''t think so. I''m getting work done."

    Hyson facepalmed himself, "Okay, let''s do it this way. I''ll go look for Uncle Shing and then we''ll invite you to our party to y the game with us. What do you think?"

    "Don''t think I don''t know your real intention is to check out my gamingputer," said Raelle inly.

    Hyson''s expressions cracked. Busted! But whatever!

    "Well, then who told you to send me the pictures of your gaming room when I was in the hospital? Isn''t that being cruel to a patient?"

    "Oh, so I learned how to be cruel to a patient. A new skill is added to my database," said Raelle.

    Hyson almost rolled his eyes at her. Why was his best friend''s focus so out of focus?!

    This was really appalling!

    "Focus!" he eximed.

    "Hyson, do you really think I''ll stop you from doing anything? If you want to check out the performance of theputer, just go ahead and do it. Let me see who stops you!"

    Hyson chuckled, "My best friend is the overlord. Who can really stop me?" He actually loved it when she said it like that. It made him fall in love with her even harder.

    "But give me about 2 hours," added Raelle. "There is an important meeting that I left to Cloe but I need to oversee it myself. After I deal with it, I''ll join you guys."

    "Really?" Hyson perked. "You''re gonna y with us?" He was bound to win with her around. Who would dare mess with his team with this overlord in it? No one!

    "I''ll join. But for B¨¤," she told him.

    Hyson just smiled, "I don''t care for whom you''re joining. What I care about is that you''reing to y with me. I''m so happy about that." He honestly didn''t care that she was gonna join the same for Uncle Shing. Her presence was the only thing that mattered.

    Why would he think that Uncle Shing was more important to her than him? He knew his importance well. He had his own ce in her life and Shui Koshing was getting his own ce in her life. And Hyson was more than happy about it. After all, it was the first time there was a father figure in her life. How could he not be happy for her?

    Just because they never talked about it or yearned for one didn''t mean they weren''t curious about how it felt to have a father in life. So, Shui Koshing''s presence in Raelle was more than weed!

    "Stop daydreaming," came Raelle''s voice. "I''m going back to work."

    "Alright!"

    After the phone call, Raelle did call Cloe and told her that she would be virtually present in the meeting which finally calmed down Cloe''s heart. She could be at ease now that the big boss was there. Even after years, she still couldn''t manage those old foxes as well as Raelle. Indeed, a boss was a boss for a reason.

    Hyson also changed his clothes and went downstairs. He looked at Grandfather Xiang who seemed to be going somewhere and asked, "Opa, where are you going?"

    "I''m going to meet Yanjun''s grandfather," told Grandfather Xiang. "He came to invite me in person. I should give him some face."

    Hyson nodded his head.

    "Do you want to join me?"

    Hyson shook his head, "No, thanks. I''m good!"

    Grandfather Xiang looked at the twodies of the house and asked, "What are you both up to?"

    "We are nning to make red velvet cake for Fai," told Mu Chenyna their n.

    Hyson''s smile stiffened. Bloody hell! He loved red velvet cake. But then he looked down at his body and steeled his heart. No way was he gonna fall for it. His weight was already out of ce. He had to firmly grasp his resolve!

    "Yanyan, Mum, you both don''t have to do it. I''m going to visit Uncle Shing today," he told them innocently.

    "Huh? Why?"

    "Because Ellie and Xian Ge aren''t around. Uncle Shing must be alone. I feel like I should check up on him," said Hyson. "When he came back, the first person he visited was me. I should show reciprocate the feeling, no?"

    Both Mu Chenyan and Yue Yue shared a look and agreed, "Yes, you should go over then."

    Grandfather Xiang said to Hyson, "Thene along with me. I''ll drop you off on the way."

    "Opa, it''s just next door," reminded Hyson.

    "As if the distance is small," said Grandfather Xiang. Even if it was just next door, it couldn''t really be counted as a small distance. Both Xiang Manor and Shui Vi covered a vast area. Then he looked over at the twodies and told them, "Since Fai is going out, both of you get a life!"

    Hyson pursed his lips to hold back hisughter. He knew he shouldn''tugh at them but he couldn''t help it. The way Grandfather Xiang said it was just so pleasing to him. He couldn''t help it.

    Mu Chenyan sighed and looked at Yue Yue, "We should really get something done. What do you say, Yue?"

    Yue Yue went along with her and nodded her head in agreement.

    Then Hyson joined Grandfather Xiang who told him, "My little prince is really being fed too much, eh?"

    Hyson lowered his head. Even Grandfather Xiang saw him through.

    "I don''t feel good when they both spend all their own time on me," said Hyson.

    "I know that," said Grandfather Xiang. "It''s good for you to go out. And going over to see Koshing is even better. That man is only in his fifties but acts even older than me. He has no life."

    Hyson chuckled at how Grandfather Xian found faults with everyone.

    "Opa, is there a fault in me and Ellie?"

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head, "Even if there are any ws, I don''t care. And I won''t let anyone point them out either."

    Hyson chuckled at him. It didn''t take long for them to reach Shui Vi, and only after seeing Hyson entering the house did Grandfather Xiang asked the driver to start the car again. As for Shui Koshing, when he heard that he had a visitor he was surprised but when he saw Hyson, he was pleasantly surprised.

    "Yue Fai!" Shui Koshing left aside his coffee and book to meet Hyson. How could tasteless coffee be more interested than the guy before him. "What a pleasant surprise!"

    "Hehehe. First, Ellie was gonna tell you about my visit but I stopped her. I thoughting unannounced will be more interesting. What do you think? I didn''t disturb you right?"

    "What nonsense? How can you disturb me? I am an old man who has nothing better to do every day," grumbled Shui Koshing.

    "This old man seems quite energetic to me though," said Hyson making Shui Koshing smile at him.

 Chapter 316 - Good Guy Award

    True to her words, it took Raelle exactly two hours to be done with her meeting. She sorted out her things and sent a voice message to Hyson: "I''m clear!"

    Hyson replied with: [Don''t log in through your phone. Go and find aputer to y.]

    Raelle stared at this message for a minute then she looked around the room. Eventually, she stood up and walked out of the door. Seeing Raelle at the door, Anna stepped over and asked, "Is there anything you need, Missy? Or are you going somewhere?"

    Raelle looked at her and nodded saying, "Where can I find aputer to y games?"

    Anna paused for a split second before replying, "We can look for an inte cafe in the vicinity."

    Raelle liked that idea somewhat and agreed, "Then find out if there is an inte cafe nearby."

    "Yes, Missy!" Anna pressed themunicator in her ear and instructed the others to look for a cafe. Looking back at Raelle, she said, "Why don''t you wait inside? If we learn something we''ll let you know." Before Raelle could agree or disagree with her suggestion, Anna heard something from hermunicator and told Raelle, "There is an inte cafe just right around the corner."

    "Lead the way," said Raelle as she closed the door behind her and stepped out to follow Anna out of the hotel.

    As she was told, the inte cafe was really right around the corner and it was a high-ss one as well. Raelle stood at the counter of the inte cafe looking at the girl who was solving test papers of maths. Looked like she was a high schooler.

    When the girl looked up and saw Raelle standing on the other side of the counter, she was stunned for a minute. For no other reason than the strikingly beautiful face of hers. She really couldn''t look away. And as good people are pleasing to everyone, her tone also softened as she asked, "Yes, how can I help you?"

    Raelle turned her head to look at Anna as if asking her to answer the question. Anna''s lips curled up slightly as she thought inside, ''Aren''t you usually eloquent? Why aren''t you answering yourself?'' But she didn''t say it out loud and didn''t let her thoughts disrupt her work. She faced the high school girl and asked, "Do you have private rooms?"

    The girl nodded her head, "Yes, we do."

    "Then we''ll take the private room," said Anna. She extended her hand towards Raelle and said, "Card."

    Raelle pulled out her wallet and ced a credit card in her hand. Anna froze when she saw her doing it so naturally.

    "Missy, I need your ID card to register," informed Anna.

    "Oh," Raelle finally got it and took back the credit card before exchanging it with her ID card.

    The young girl standing at the counter also saw this exchange and was actually amused. She didn''t think Raelle was dumb. She found her quite unique.

    "How many hours?" she inquired.

    Anna looked at Raelle and repeated the question, "How many hours you''re nning to stay?"

    "I am not sure," said Raelle. She really wasn''t sure but ying games often end up being a long-time affair. So, she answered, "Let''s go with four."

    Anna told the girl who nodded her head and punched it in the system. "How will you be paying? WeChat pay?"

    "I don''t use digital money though," said Raelle.

    "We ept cash as well," said the girl.

    "I don''t think I have cash either," was Raelle''s response. As she was about to pull her credit card out again, Anna stepped in to show her phone screen to let the girl scan the QR code.

    The girl politely returned the ID card and said thank you before telling them they could enter. Anna directed the way and brought Raelle to the second floor where the private rooms were. First, she entered to check up on everything. Then she even used the wet wipes to clean the table for Raelle. And only after doing all that did she say to her, "Missy, do you need anything? Anything to drink perhaps?"

    "Water will do," answered Raelle.

    "I''ll bring it right now," Anna went out and brought back the bottle of the water for her. "You can use theputer here. I''ll be downstairs waiting for you."

    Raelle had never been to an inte cafe before. She never had the need to visit one either. So, she was unfamiliar with everything here. Even the process of registering for aputer. One thing she was most familiar with was theputer. No matter how high-performingputer it was, she''d be more than familiar with it.

    She expertly logged in to the game and put on her headphones. Seeing that Hyson was online, she sent him a message, [I''m here!]

    Hyson pulled her into his team and opened the voice function to question, "Did you find theputer?"

    "Yeah," she told him.

    "Where?" he questioned.

    "Inte cafe," answered Raelle.

    "Wow! You actually went to the inte cafe?" asked Hyson in surprise.

    "Had no other choice for now," was Raelle''s response. "In fact, it isn''t bad here. Theputer is at least good for gaming."

    "Of course, theputer is good for gaming," retorted Hyson. "Why else do you think there are inte cafes?"

    "Why?" asked Raelle in pure curiosity.

    "So that youths can waste their time ying games," she heard another voice that definitely belonged to Shui Koshing. "Your husband used to ditch sses to waste his time in inte cafes."

    "Really?" Raelle couldn''t tell.

    "It seems, Xian Ge had his moments," said Hyson.

    "Don''t even mention it! I so wished to beat him back then but I could only ground him or stop his pocket money," Shui Koshing seemed to beining as he let out his grievances. "Yue Fai, did you also spend time in an inte cafe?"

    Hyson grinned bashfully, "I''ve always been a good kid, Uncle Shing."

    "Hyson has been so good B¨¤ that it''s a shame he hasn''t received the good guy award by now," Raelle chimed in.

 Chapter 317 - Young And Alive

    Hyson''s lips twitched when he heard that remark from Raelle. He had no words for this best friend. Although it sounded like she wasplimenting him, he actually felt like she was taunting him.

    Especially when Shui Koshing startedughing.

    "Why do I feel like you''re making fun of me?" asked Hyson to Raelle.

    "Maybe because I am," she answered.

    "What a big meanie," grumbled Hyson. But immediately his mood turned into the sunshine as he told her, "Ellie, this gamingputer at your house is so cool! I fell in love with it already!"

    "Of course, it''s cool. My husband got it for me. How can it not be cool?" responded Raelle that felt she was showing off. But this one remark alone couldn''t throw off Hyson''s enthusiasm.

    He still continued to tell her how smooth it was to work on thisputer and how he was enjoying it. Even the mouse was high-performing. Theputer screen was not only big but also high definition. It felt like he was pulled into the fantasy world of the game. The gaming experience was truly exceptional!

    No wonder people spend fortunes just to upgrade their gaming experience.

    While was chattering away, he was suddenly stumped when he saw something unusual. He rubbed his eyes and looked at the screen again.

    "Ellie, is that really your character?" he asked her.

    "Yeah," answered Raelle.

    "Spin," he ordered her to do so.

    Raelle didn''t care what he was up to she just pressed the keyboard keys to make her character spin. Hyson''s jaw dropped, "It is really your character. But why is it showing that you''re married?"

    "I am married, am I not?" she asked him.

    "I''m talking about your in-game character! You''re married in real life, how did your character also follow suit?"

    Raelle only then recalled that Hyson didn''t know this detail.

    "And who did your character marry? Are you cheating on Xian Ge in the game? Tsk. Tsk. I''ve expected better from you, Ellie!"

    "How can I cheat on him when I married him?"

    "Huh?"

    Shui Koshing finally decided to jump in this conversation to clear up Hyson''s misunderstanding as he told him, "Raelle''s in-game character married Xian''s in-game character."

    "What?" Hyson was taken aback. "How did I miss this news?"

    "You didn''t hear about it?" questioned Shui Koshing. Then he felt pleased with himself for being up-to-date as he informed Hyson, "They had a duel in the arena and after that, they got married in the? game."

    "Ellie, how can you not tell me?" asked Hyson feeling wronged.

    "Because before I could tell you anything, I was informed about your ident," she told him. Indeed, right after she yed the game with Xian, the next day Hyson got himself into an ident. She had no time to share anything with him.

    "Oh, I missed out on such explosive news just because I was busy getting lost in the snow? What is wrong with me?"

    "Only you can tell what''s wrong with you."

    "If only I knew it myself,"mented Hyson. "Forget it. Let''s clear the dungeon together. I''ll vent my anger on the dungeon boss!"

    They took the dungeon task and started fighting with the mini monsters before reaching the big boss of the dungeons. Killing those bog boss'' minions, Raelle even had the leisure to tell Shui Koshing, "B¨¤, Hyson wants to invite his group mates over. Is it okay with you if he invites them to dinner at our home?"

    "That''s such a silly question, Raelle. I wasn''t expecting it from you," stated Shui Koshing.

    "Silly question? Why?"

    "Didn''t you just say it''s our home?" Shui Koshing reminded her. "Then howe you need permission?"

    "I still had to ask," said Raelle.

    "Pay attention here," came Hyson''s voice. "I''m dying here!"

    They went silent and started to seriously get engaged in this fight. It took a while to kill the tricky dungeon boss. But only after they cleared it were they happy.

    "I say, we make a good team," was Hyson''s opinion. "That just reminded me, you had a duel with Xian Ge in the arena? Who won?"

    "Why does it matter?" responded Raelle.

    "I need an answer for the peace of my mind," said Hyson. How was he supposed to live in curiosity? That won''t be healthy for him. Definitely won''t be healthy.

    "What if I don''t want to provide you any peace of mind?"

    "I never got the answer for that question either," Shui Koshing chimed. He did ask the question to his son but he also said the same thing the winner didn''t matter. Only the result did and the result was that he tied the knot with his wife even in the game. Hehehe.

    "And I am unable to understand why is that important?"

    "Your understanding had always beencking," said Hyson. "And if I tried to make you understand, it might take a while."

    "We are here for the game," reminded Raelle. "I see that we are in good form. So, let''s clear more dungeons."

    "Yes, let''s go to the new dungeon. I heard no one has cleared it yet," said Hyson. "I checked in the forum. The dungeon appeared an hour ago and the first 100 yers to clear with get exclusive weapons."

    "Since you seem so excited, let''s do that," Raelle agreed readily.

    Since two teammates had no problem, why would Shui Koshing have any problem? He also followed them to the location of the new dungeon. While ying with these two, Shui Koshing felt like time had turned back and he went back to his youth.

    He hadn''t felt this energetic in a while. He had been all alone when Raelle and Xian weren''t home. And even though he thought he was used to it but he only now realized that he liked this boisterous scene.

    It made him feel alive and young.

    He could tell that Hyson and Raelle always teamed up since they understood each other without even a word. They could easily assist each other in a fight. Or it was right to say that they always had each other''s back even in the game.

 Chapter 318 - Insecurity

    When Shui Xian came back from work, he was still as excited as ever. Just the thought of seeing his wife was enough to put him in a good mood. Even the people who worked with him today could tell that he was happy. He was so happy that he even didn''t nitpick with a lot of things today.

    He was still humming a happy tune as he opened the door and shouted, "Wifey, I''m back!"

    His upturned lips suddenly went downhill when he saw the deste room. The room looked as empty and cold as it did the previous days. The one that brought the light into his world and even brightened up this cold room was nowhere to be seen.

    "Raelle?" he called out but received no reply.

    Had he been dreamingst night that she came to look for him? Was it a game his brain yed with him? And Raelle was never here, to begin with? He was just looking for something to keep himself happy?

    Shui Xian immediately shook these thoughts out of his mind. If thoughts were a person, he would have pped them right now. Yes, that''s for sure! He''d have given a good beating to those absurd thoughts!

    He found Raelle''sptop lying on the table and smiled, "See! She isn''t just my dream! She is real!" He even went to check her stuff and even more rxed, "Exactly! She is as real as gold! How can I mistake that?"

    He even began to talk to himself but there was no one around to witness his rare moment of losing hisposure. He felt a cold feeling seeping into his heart when he didn''t get to see Raelle inside the room. But now, the coldness was dissipating as he rxed to know that her stuff was here that meant she was also here.

    Maybe she just went out to take a look around?

    But she said she''d only go out with him.

    Shui Xian felt a bit saddened at the thought. He really didn''t know what he wanted to do. He was happy that she decided to leave work and go out but he was also unhappy that she didn''t wait for him. He couldn''t even understand his own mood swings. What the hell was wrong with him?

    He felt like he was getting Bipr disorder. One moment, he was all sunny and the next, the thunder would explode!

    He found his phone and gave Raelle a call. He was waiting anxiously for her to pick up the call and when she did, he only asked, "Did you leave?"

    Raelle didn''t expect this question at all. "No. I''m at the inte cafe. Are you back?"

    "Inte cafe," Shui Xian tasted these words in his mouth and calmed down. "I''m back but I didn''t see you when I came back so I was a little worried."

    "Since you''re back, I''ll be there," replied Raelle and hung up the phone. She looked at the time and realized that she had spent quite a while in the inte cafe. It was all Hyson''s fault who suddenly thought of ying the shooting game.

    After she was done dumping the whole responsibility on Hyson, she went out of the inte cafe. Surprisingly, she saw Shui Xian waiting outside. He had his hands on his knees as he was bent over and panting heavily. He definitely ran over here to get her.

    "Hubby!" she called him softly.

    Shui Xian looked up and seeing her standing before him, he grinned happily. Standing up straight, he hugged her tightly and said, "It''s a good thing you''re still here."

    "Did you really think I''d leave?" asked Raelle as she let herself be hugged by him. Even though the force he used was a bit much, she didn''t say anything. "Didn''t I tell you I''ll wait for you?"

    Shui Xian sighed out. He was really an idiot. Just because he didn''t see her, his brain started malfunctioning. How could he just assume that she left?

    "But I thought you''d wait for me in the room and you''d be the first person I see when I go back from work. I was so looking forward to that," stated Shui Xian not hiding anything from her. "So, when I didn''t get to see you, I kinda panicked a little."

    "I did say I won''t go out without you so I guess it''s my fault," said Raelle thoughtfully. She needed to reflect on her behavior.

    Seeing her like this, Shui Xian smiled fondly at her and said, "Nothing is really your fault. I''m just an insecure person. It has nothing to do with you." He held her hand as she went back towards the hotel and he told her, "In fact, I''m actually happy that you decided toe out to explore this ce."

    "I didn''te out to explore," told Raelle sincerely. "I just found an inte cafe to use aputer to y the game with Hyson and B¨¤."

    Shui Xian was surprised when he learned the truth behind this whole situation, "Aiyah! So it was like that? Why is my brain so dumb?"

    "I don''t think you''re dumb," stated Raelle nkly.

    Shui Xian smiled at that, "Then you think too highly of me. I''m ttered." He took a pause and inquired, "So, did you have fun ying the games?" He didn''t mind her going out to y games online. What mattered was that she didn''t stay cooped up in the room to work! Wasn''t that something noteworthy?

    Why would he pay attention to anything else?

    The most important point was that she did something fun and with the people she cared about. He could already tell how happy his B¨¤ would have been because of this gaming session. Just the thought of it put him in a good mood.

    And when Raelle gave him the details of how they yed and all, he was even more interested. Why the hell did he have to work? He could have joined them as well!

 Chapter 319 - Belong To Him

    "Why are you packing up?" questioned Raelle when she saw him packing his own suitcase and hers as well. "Are we going back?"

    Shui Xian ced both suitcases side by side and faced her, "No. But we are checking out of the hotel."

    Raelle found something wrong with those words. "Then where are we gonna spend our night?"

    "If I say on the road, would you agree?"

    Raelle thought about it and nodded, "Sure."

    Shui Xian tucked her hair behind her ear and told her, "I''m happy to know that my wife is willing to follow me anywhere. But trust me, I will never let you suffer." He took a pause to add, "As for where we are going... You''ll know when we get there."

    Raelle silently followed him out. They took the car and drove out of there. Raelle only found out where he was taking her when they finally got there.

    As the car drove on the driveway made of small peddles leading to a house built in woods, she looked at Shui Xian in question. Shui Xian could feel her inquisitive gaze but for now, he kept quiet. Alighting from the car, he took her hand and led her inside the house.

    This modern house was built to perfection. One wouldn''t expect to see a house like this in the woods. And contrary to what one might believe, there happened to more than one house around this area. It was just that each house was a considerable distance to provide privacy for each household.

    "How is this ce?" asked Shui Xian when he watched her looking around.

    "It''s nice," she answered what she thought. "Is this house yours?"

    "No, it''s ours!" he told her. Taking her hand, he gave her a house tour, and along the way, he informed her, "I bought this ce when we first started a project in this area. But it had been empty since then. Whenever I came here for work, I was alone. I didn''t think I needed to spend time in this house all alone. But since you camest night, I already nned toe here. It''s just that since it''s been locked for a while, I needed some time to ask someone to tidy it up and make this ce livable."

    "It''s a good hideout ce,"mented Raelle.

    Shui Xian chuckled and hugged her waist from behind as he said, "Then let''s hide here together from the world."

    Raelle didn''t really react. The way he always came to give her a back hug had be natural now. For some wild reason, he loved to give her back hugs and Raelle never stopped him either. There was no reason to do so.

    "When I bought this ce from an old couple, I didn''t know what I was gonna do with it," he said in a small voice. "But from the moment I saw youst night, I knew I wanted to bring you here with me." He smiled to himself as he nuzzled her hair and added in a husky voice, "This house was definitely meant to be ours so that I cane here with you."

    "Why did the old couple sell the house to you?" asked Raelle. "I don''t think the house is built for that long." Raelle could say it because the house was quite modern and luxurious but also gave off a warm and cozy feeling. The design of the house was quite smart and she really liked it. It could be seen the house was built with love so she couldn''t understand why would someone sell it.

    "That old couple only had a daughter who married abroad and about two years, she came back to take her parents with her. She didn''t want her parents toe back so they sold the house. I guess I just got lucky."

    Shui Xian was grinning when he said it. He truly felt like he got lucky. This ce was no different than a lovers'' hideout. How could he not be considered fortunate? When he bought it, he had no lover so he actually felt regretful for buying it. But now that he did have beauty in his arms and as he stood in this house, he felt like it was all worth it.

    Since he didn''t hire any staff for this house, he had to prepare the dinner on his own. He walked into the kitchen and found it equipped with everything. He had already asked someone to buy groceries so he didn''t have to worry about anything else.

    "Sweetheart, what do you want for dinner?" Shui Xian asked as he looked through the fridge to see what was avable.

    "Who is making the dinner?" asked Raelle.

    "I am," answered Shui Xian. "I never got to show off my culinary skills to you before, right? Tonight, I''m nning on going all out. So, let me know what you want to eat."

    "You already know I''m not particr about food," said Raelle. "Just make anything that''s easy and not time-consuming." Shui Xian gave her a look as she continued, "I just think you are already tired from working all day. There is no point in wasting your energy on cooking avish meal. Or we can just get something from outside?"

    Shui Xian felt like his heart was melting now. How can his wife be this sweet? Which bastard said she was heartless? Is everyone blind? How could they not see her precious heart? She was still worried about him.

    Well, on second thought, it''s good that no one else found her precious heart. Now, it all belonged to him. She belonged to him. Just him! And no one else was allowed to see this side of her except for him. What a delight!

    Seeing how he wasn''t saying anything, Raelle reyed what she said in her mind to think whether she said something she wasn''t supposed to. But she found nothing wrong. Then why was he so quiet? Should she ask him? Maybe she should really ask him.

 Chapter 320 - Need Help?

    "Did I say something wrong?" Raelle finally decided to just ask. There were plenty of things she didn''t understand. Most of the time when she thought she was speaking the right thing, people would still take it in the wrong direction. So, she had to confirm it with him.

    Shui Xian shook his head, "Not at all." He walked up to her and added, "You didn''t say anything wrong. In fact, I was just feeling touched by what you said. My wife is worried that I''ll tire myself out. How can I not be touched?" He ced a hand on her head and went on, "Also, you should stop being so careful with me. Throw the caution out of the window. It''s not needed in our rtionship. Say whatever you want. Even if it''s hurtful, I won''t mind."

    "Why?" Raelle blinked at him. "Why won''t you mind it even if it''s hurtful?"

    "Because I know that''s not your intention," he told her with a doting look in his eyes. He passed her the apron saying, "Now, help me with this."

    Raelle looked at the apron he held in his hand and took it. He lowered his head to make it easy for her put the apron on him. Then he stood straight and even turned around thoughtfully to let her tie the apron.

    He was pleased with his own ideas. Wearing the apron on your own was different but when she helped him with this simple task, he felt like this simple thing became quite special.

    "Alrighty! I''m all ready to begin now," announced Shui Xian. "So, I was thinking how about some Strip Steak with Lemon Mashed Potatoes? And we can also add Pasta with Saut¨¦ed Peppers, Zhini, and Smoked Mozzare? Also..."

    Raelle ced her hand on his mouth to stop him, "I think that''s enough. How long will it take?"

    "These two dishes are so easy, I''ll be done in 30 minutes max," said Shui Xian. "So, let''s add a soup?" He especially decided to cook something simple and quick as per her wishes. Although he won''t get to show off his special taste, it''d be enough for now.

    "No, I don''t eat that much anyway," said Raelle. "There are only two of us here. I don''t even know where you sent my security team."

    "They are at a safe ce and they aren''t that far from here either. They''d be provided with meals. Ma Jin is staying with them to make sure they get whatever is needed."

    "Then do you need any help?" asked Raelle. "Although I don''t think I''ll be of any help, I''ll try to learn."

    Shui Xian pushed her out of the kitchen saying, "Sweetheart, there is no way I''m letting you stay here. You are still not allowed to enter the kitchen just as Grandfather Xiang has set the rule. This rule isn''t changing. So, leave it all to me."

    "Oh..." Raelle was literally thrown out of the kitchen. She could only roam around the house on her own. She walked around and came to stand before the viewing ss windows. One could get the view of theke from here. Since the sun had already set by now, she couldn''t see theke that clearly. But the way the moonlight fell on the surface of theke was really enchanting.

    She spent some time there enjoying the view but soon thought of another view and went back to the kitchen. She didn''t enter this time, just leaned against the doorframe and set her eyes on Shui Xian''s figure. His hairidzily on his forehead and his eyes were focused on the cutting board. His big hand held the kitchen knife as he continued to cut the vegetables with speedy ''tuk tuk tuk''!

    His sleeves were rolled up and one could see the veins of his forearm clearly.

    The other day she had Cloe she didn''t know whether Soren looked handsome while cooking or not but she was certain now that she found this concentrated look of her husband to be quite dashing. There was no doubt about it. The beauty standard in her brain was set on Shui Xian. How would she find anyone else eye-catching when all her attention was on this man? This man who happened to be her husband!

    Do you know what that meant?

    It meant that she had the right to look at this man without being mistaken for a pervert!

    What they say, when you see something beautiful, snap a photo!

    Raelle ended up doing the exact same thing. There was a beauty before her eyes, how could she resist capturing this beauty with her phone''s camera but no matter how skilled she was at photography, she for the first time felt like a photo wasn''t doing her husband justice. She''d just capture this beauty in the database of her brain then.

    After contemting over it, she still didn''t really delete the photo she clicked. But instead, set it as her lock screen photo. She did it because Shui Xian was using her photo as well. She thought it was only right if she did the same, no?

    Actually, Shui Xian could feel her presence. Although he was concentrated, he could still perceive her presence. However, he seemed to be enjoying the way her eyes were only set on him. How could he dare to stop her from staring?

    "When you''re done looking, you can leave," Raelle heard Shui Xian''s voice.

    "I won''t enter," Raelle reassured. "I''ll just stay at the door."

    Shui Xian lifted his head to look at her and Raelle met his gaze, head-on.

    "Do I still have to leave?"

    "You don''t want to?" asked Shui Xian.

    "No, I don''t want to," she answered. "I like the view." She told honestly without any embarrassment. It wasn''t the first time she said something like this to him but the effect was all the same even now. "I won''t bother you. Just giving you somepany."

    Shui Xian shook his head and let her be.

 Chapter 321 - Love Me

    Shui Xian cooked the two dishes and even poured wine in two goblets. He set up the table for two and even ced a candlestand in the middle. Raelle didn''t ask what he was doing. It was actually obvious. He was trying to make the atmosphere more romantic.

    It seemed Hyson was right about Xian.

    Her husband had a romantic soul which was so not like hers so found these things tedious and troublesome.

    When she thought of this, Raelle even got to realize thattely, she didn''t found things as troublesome as before. There weren''t many changes in her life if one didn''t include the addition of Shui Xian. But did this one addition really managed to change the way she perceived things?

    That can''t be possible, right?

    Raelle had never given someone the right to change her. Even Hyson was not allowed to do so. But Shui Xian was doing some changes to her. But it was not like Shui Xian wanted to change her at all. However, he still was able to make a change in her life by just being there. Those changes weren''t really obvious but for someone critical like Raelle, all these minute changes were already too much.

    Shui Xian pulled out a chair for Raelle as he said, "Have a seat, mdy!"

    Raelle didn''t want to know why he was acting this way. She chose to just take the seat. If you''re ever offered a chair, just take it. No need for questions.

    Then he also sat opposite her and lit up the candles one by one, all three candles started burning with a passion. Shui Xian took a remote from the side and turned off the lightspletely. Now, only the light of candles and the moonlight falling in from the tall windows apanied these two.

    "Baby, why don''t you look outside?"

    Raelle did as he said and turned her head. And then she couldn''t move her eyes away. Thekeside that had been calm earlier was now crowded with fireflies. Those tiny moths gave off lights as they flew around as if dancing on the surface of theke. Or perhaps, they wanted to kiss the moonlight that has be a part of theke at this time.

    Whatever it was, it was beautiful.

    "It''s beautiful," she said.

    "Is it more beautiful than me?" he asked with a cheeky smile on his face.

    Raelle looked back at him and said, "For some reason, I don''t want to answer that question."

    Shui Xian pouted, "How can that be? Can''t you say that your husband is more beautiful than any sight?"

    "Do I even have to say it?" was Raelle''s response.

    Shui Xian was stunned by her words. It took him a while to process her words but when he did, a new wave of a loving and helpless smile bloomed on his handsome face.

    Argh! He was really getting obsessed withpliments. But he only wanted to hear thosepliments from her.

    "Why don''t you try the food now?" suggested Shui Xian. "I can''tpete with your professional chefs but I have always been quite proud of my art."

    "Art?"

    "Food is also an art, darling," he told her in all seriousness.

    "Then I''m definitely the wrong person to appraise this art," said Raelle. "For me, food has always been a necessity of life. Nothing more. We eat to stay healthy. There is hardly any other meaning to me of food. But if Hyson had been at my ce, he''d certainly be able to appreciate this art." She picked up her fork as she added, "Your wife is pretty clueless in this department."

    "But I still like this clueless wife," was Shui Xian''s answer. "I don''t need you to praise me. I just want you to have a hearty meal."

    Raelle took small bites as she focused on eating. Shui Xian''s attention was on her. She unhurriedly continued to take bite after bite and would also take a sip of the red wine. Although it was hard to hear what she thought about the food, the way she ate made Shui Xian believe that she liked it.

    Sigh! He hasn''t paid this much attention to someone before.

    With Raelle, he had to pay attention to every single little thing to read between the lines to understand her a little more. This needed patience that he seemed to be learning from his wifetely. She was extremely patient. She wasn''t patient only when it came to her own principles.

    Raelle finished her meal and wiped her mouth. She looked at Shui Xian and said, "Thank you for the meal! I liked it."

    "Really?" Shui Xian''s eyes twinkled like little stars.

    "Yes, really!" she reassured him. "Don''t ask why I like it. I just do."

    Shui Xian chuckled at her, "No, I won''t go into details."

    Raelle thought about something, "So... should I wash the dishes?" Shui Xian was baffled by her question. "Isn''t that how it goes? One does the cooking and the other does the dishes? It''d be too cruel of me to let you do it all."

    Shui Xianughed out. "Are you afraid that you''d be called cruel for doing that?"

    "I''m not afraid of anything," she told him clearly. "But I just want to help you a little."

    "Have you ever done this before?" he inquired.

    "Obviously, no."

    "Then why is there a need to do it now? I''m here for it," Shui Xian was quite easy-going about it all. "I''ll do it myself. Besides, I love washing dishes."

    "Liar!"

    Shui Xian''s smile stiffened and he ended up clicking his tongue, "You actually saw through me."

    "It wasn''t that difficult to do so," she said.

    Shui Xian stood up to take the dishes and leaned over to kiss her forehead as he said to her, "Even if I don''t like it, doesn''t mean I''m willing to let you do it."

    "If I try once, I''ll eventually learn."

    "This is not something you have to learn," he said. "But if you do want to learn something..." Raelle continued to look up at him, waiting for him to end his dramatic pause. And he did end it with a kiss on her lips saying, "Then learn to love me. That''d make my whole life worth it."

 Chapter 322 - Royal Dukes Of Your Fantasy

    "This girl ran so fast just because her husband called?" Hyson was still stuck in a battle when Raelle had thrown a few words at him and logged out. She had never been this irresponsible!

    "A game can''t possibly be more important than her husband," remarked Shui Koshing calmly. He actually didn''t mind that Raelle left them halfway through and ran off like this. He was more pleased to see that she had done that. It meant his son had quite some position in her life.

    He was happier to see the husband and wife getting along.

    "Let''s go," suggested Shui Koshing. "We have also spent four hours in front of theputer. Although I enjoyed it thoroughly, I can''t neglect my old bones. My son would be angry with me if I didn''t pay attention to my health."

    "Xian Ge isn''t scary though," said Hyson.

    "You''ve not seen his angry look," was Shui Koshing''s response.

    Hyson shook his head and mumbled softly, "Nothing can be scarier than the emptiness I saw in someone''s eyes."

    "What did you say?" Shui Koshing didn''t manage to catch what he said.

    Hyson wasn''t gonna exin it either as he waved it off with, "I said we should go now."

    Both Hyson and Shui Koshing walked out of the room and went down. Shui Koshing had already asked his chefs to prepare a feast tonight. "When are your friendsing?"

    "Let me ask." Hyson opened the WeChat and clicked on the name of their group. He had a thing against the name they chose for this WeChat group. As their band was called ''Fantasy'', this WeChat group was named, ''Royal Dukes of your Fantasy.'' Like bleh!

    In the earliest years, the WeChat group had the same name as their group. Just ''Fantasy.'' How simple was that.

    But no, Fang Yiwen had to have a drunken bet with Lin Zhen who ended up losing the bet, and then their WeChat group''s name changed into this. It was all that vampire''s fault!

    >>Royal Dukes of your Fantasy<< Group chatroom.

    Everyone''s favorite little brother: [Are you guysing over or not?]

    As Hyson sent out this message in the group chat, he was left staring at his own nickname in the group chat. He felt another headacheing on. It was all his fans'' fault for making him known as everyone''s ''little brother.'' No! It was all Lin Zhen''s fault for changing his nickname in the group.

    Blood Sucking Vampire: [I''m already out the door!]

    Hyson was suddenly in a good mood when he saw this message. Not because of the message but because Fang Yiwen''s nickname seemed way too pleasing to his eyes today.

    I''m toozy to talk: [Did you learn the invisibility spell? I''ve been sitting in the living room and I didn''t even see your ghost going out the door!]

    Hyson''s lips twitched when he understood what Huang Shuyi meant by those words.

    Everyone''s favorite little brother: [Yiwen Ge, you''re trying to dupe me?]

    Blood Sucking Vampire: [What the hell! Shuyi! Can''t you just sleep in peace?]

    I''m toozy to talk: [If you don''t want others to know it, don''t do it.]

    Blood Sucking Vampire: [You''re not a good teammate.]

    I''m toozy to talk: [I''m toozy to care about your opinion.]

    Fang Yiwen was left with a bitter taste in his mouth. He opened the door of the room and looked at Huang Shuyi sprawled on the sofazily. He immediately took a photo and sent it to the group chat.

    Blood Sucking Vampire: [[photo]]

    Blood Sucking Vampire: [Look at this, Fai! He is calling me out but look at him! He iszing around like it''s any other day]

    I''m toozy to talk: [When you can''t exin yourself, don''t start attacking others.]

    I''m toozy to talk: [Besides, I was waiting for you to get ready so we could go together.]

    Blood Sucking Vampire: [Fish!]

    In fact, Fang Yiwen wanted to curse Huang Shuyi but considering how Hyson was also able to read the messages as well, he changed his words. Since Hyson was the nation''s little brother, all of them usually refrained from cursing in front of him. As if they really treated him like a child.

    I''m the Final Boss: [The time you guys are wasting here can be spent on the road.]

    Hyson agreed with this.

    Everyone''s favorite little brother: [Zhen Ge is right. Instead of arguing here, get on the road already!]

    Everyone''s favorite little brother: [It''s you all who insisted oning to see me. And now that I''ve sent you the location, you all are ignoring me?]

    I''m the Final Boss: [I am already here. I''m just waiting for the others toe.]

    Depressed Baby: [I''m also on my way. Zhen Ge, don''t enter without me.]

    As if realizing something, another message came instantly.

    Depressed Baby: [Who changed my nickname?]

    I''m toozy to talk: [Only one person has the authority to change nicknames in this group.]

    I''m toozy to talk: [And I must say, Zhen, you just won my heart today!]

    Lin Zhen was pursing his lips to hold back hisughter. When he read Huang Shuyi''s message, he was pleased with himself. After all, getting apliment out of Huang Shuyi was really something!

    Blood Sucking Vampire: [Howe I didn''t notice? This is explosive!]

    Blood Sucking Vampire: [It seems Zhen Ge has finally learned my sense of humor.]

    Depressed Baby: [[fuming emoji]]

    Depressed Baby: [Zhen Ge, I expected this from Yiwen but you? How could you do this to me?]

    On the other side, even Hyson wasughing out loud. Originally, Pei Zi Hong''s nickname was >>Energy Booster<< but it seemstely Pei Zi Hong had been staying depressed because of his dating scandal and he felt bad for letting everyone in his group down as well. Seeing this, Lin Zhen ended up changing his nickname to >>Depressed Baby<<.

    It suited him at the moment.

    I''m the Final Boss: [Whenever I see you, you''re always saying sorry to me for letting you down. I said a hundred times that it''s okay. But you just didn''t listen. You forced me to do this.]

    Everyone''s favorite little brother: [Yes, you brought it upon yourself, Zi Hong Ge.]

    I''m toozy to talk: [I also agree with Zhen.]

    Blood Sucking Vampire: [Poor Zi Hong Ge. But I''m with you Zhen Ge.]

    Pei Zi Hong looked at them being so united and snorted. Their group was known in the industry for being united. He really wanted people to see this. See, how united they all were even when they were teasing him. But since they were happy, then he won''t say anything regarding this.

    Depressed Baby: [I won''t argue with you all.]

    Depressed Baby: [Anyway, Yiwen, Shuyi, you better get on the road now. Once Zhen Ge walked through the gates of this residentialmunity, you both won''t get the chance to follow.]

    Blood Sucking Vampire: [Why not?]

    Everyone''s favorite little brother: [Because unknown personnel is not allowed to enter themunity. Only residents of this ce can bring someone inside with them.]

    I''m toozy to talk: [Then how can Zhen enter?]

    Everyone''s favorite little brother: [That''s a good question.]

    Depressed Baby: [Because Zhen Ge bought a house there. Don''t you know Zhen Ge is rich!]

    Blood Sucking Vampire: [Zi Hong, you''re also from a rich family. Then why do I feel like you''re being jealous of Zhen Ge right now?]

    Depressed Baby: [You don''t understand!]

    >>Depressed Baby<< has been muted for a week by the group owner.

    >>Blood Sucking Vampire<< has been muted for a week by the group owner.

    >>I''m toozy to talk<< has been muted for a week by the group owner.

    After shutting these three up for a week, Lin Zhen was pleased with himself. These three were being too chatty. And what was this gossip-looking behavior?

    I''m the Final Boss: [Fai, don''t worry. I''ll bring these troublesome kids to you.]

    Hyson almostughed out loud when Lin Zhen so tyrannically muted the other three.

    Everyone''s favorite little brother: [Zhen Ge, I can only count you. Thank you!]

    I''m the Final Boss: [It''s alright!]

    Hyson exited the group chat and looked up at Shui Koshing.

    "You look really happy," Shui Koshing pointed out the obvious.

    Hysonughed out, "I have silly group members. They are the real jokers. It''s hard to believe they are famous idols."

    "The same goes for you, Yue Fai," said Shui Koshing. "It''s hard to tell that you have the highest poprity in your group."

    Hyson scratched his head sheepishly. Sometimes he also didn''t believe in that. Although he was the main vocalist, he actually never joined any variety shows to increase his exposure. And neither did he ever interacted with his fans that actively. His only passion was singing. He even disliked dancing but he had no other option.

    "I like being low-key," said Hyson.

    "Oh?"

    "I think I was influenced by Ellie," said Hyson. "I don''t even feel like a star myself."

 Chapter 323 - Easy-Going Uncle

    Lin Zhen stayed true to his words. He urged the others to arrive as soon as possible. And since this nagging ''mother'' was the one ordering around, none of the other three dared toze around anymore.

    They all arrived at the Shui Vi with Lin Zhen taking the lead. As they entered the driveway, Fang Yiwen couldn''t help saying, "This is a huge vi."

    Pei Zi Hong unconsciously looked at Lin Zhen who also looked back at him. Pei Zi Hong opened his mouth and asked, "It''s Shui Vi. Are you sure this is the location sent by Fai?"

    "This is the one," came Huang Shuyi''s voice. "There is no mistake."

    "There is indeed no mistake," added Lin Zhen with aplicated look in his eyes.

    "Is this the same Shui family I have in mind or it''s a different person with the same name?" inquired Pei Zi Hong.

    "No, I believe it''s the one you''re thinking about," replied Lin Zhen.

    Pei Zi Hong sucked in a cold breath. "Fai isn''t a simple person."

    "Did you just figure that out?" asked Lin Zhen.

    "Why are you both wasting time at the door?" Huang Shuyi stepped in to question. "Are we going in or not? No matter who is Fai, at the end of the day, he is our little cute brother. Does it really matter which family or background he belongs to?"

    Fang Yiwen patted his shoulder as he said, "Even though ourzy bone talk rarely, he always hits the mark. Ipletely agree with him. Whoever Fai is, he is still one of us."

    "Well, then let''s no focus on this anymore," Lin Zhen breathed out a sigh and rang the doorbell.

    The door opened and the housekeeper weed them all. They were led to the lounge where Hyson was already waiting for them with Shui Koshing.

    "Oh, you all are finally here?" asked Hyson as he stood up to look at them with an using gaze as if ming them for being sote.

    Lin Zhen ced a fruit basket at the table saying, "We got some things for you."

    Hyson looked at the fruits basket, a box of chocte, a gift box, cake, and many more things that these four carried for him. He wasn''t really that sick now. And even if he was, did they have to bring so much for him?

    "What''s the need for all of this?" asked Hyson.

    "We couldn''t just..."

    Before Pei Zi Hong could say anything, Hyson interrupted him, "Let''s not use the same excuse again that you couldn''t possiblye to see me empty-handed. We have known each other for 8 years, is there still a need for such formalities."

    "Well..." They didn''t know what to say.

    Hyson was actually surprised that this group of people was acting so well-behaved today. They didn''t jump on him. They didn''t barrage him with questions. They looked so well-mannered and polite that it made Hyson feel a little ufortable. This waspletely different from what was going on in the group chat earlier. And now they were suddenly so exceptionally good?

    Hyson frowned at their behavior and then introduced them to Shui Koshing, "I almost forgot to introduce you guys. This is my Uncle Shing. And he is the one who has organized the dinner for us tonight."

    Shui Koshing was amused by Hyson''s words. Clearly, it was his family''s daughter-inw who nned everything and he only gave instructions to make sure the n is followed ordingly. Howe he became the one with all the credit? But then again, since the daughter-inw was from his family, he''d just shameless take this credit.

    Shui Koshing greeted them all with a polite and gentle smile. He looked like a gentle old man. There was a good vibe around him that made people rxed. And Huang Shuyi and Fang Yiwen actually got a good impression of him and even enthusiastically greeted him.

    It was just for Pei Zi Hong and Lin Zhen, it was difficult to rx around Shui Koshing since they were familiar with the identity of Shui Koshing. So what if he retired early? He was Shui Koshing! Even after separating from the huge Shui family, he stood tall and above others. He was a person respected and feared in the elite circle.

    And since he retired, it was even more difficult to meet Shui Koshing since he liked to spend time in seclusion. Who knew they''d end up meeting him here?

    Shui Koshing noticed the restrained behavior of Lin Zhen and Pei Zi Hong and chose to smile at them politely as he said, "There is no need to be so distant. Consider it your own house. You all are Yue Fai''s friends and that makes you all a special guest of my family." He took a pause as he directed them to sit and added, "I''d like to take this as an opportunity to express my gratitude towards all of you. I''ve heard how much you cared for Yue Fai. So, thank you so much for taking care of him all these years."

    Hyson felt embarrassed all of a sudden. The way Shui Koshing said it felt like he was an elder who wanted to thank his son''s friends who had taken care of him all this time. Hyson actually liked this feeling. He liked it a lot.

    "Mr. Shui, you don''t have to say it," said Lin Zhen.

    "You can just call me Uncle Shing like Yue Fai does," said Shui Koshing.

    Lin Zhen felt a little strange.

    "Zhen Ge, you''re acting like my Uncle Shing is gonna bite you," joked Hyson. "Rx! He is very easy-going."

    Lin Zhen thought only Hyson could say that Shui Koshing was easy-going. He couldn''t associate this older man with a mild person.

    "Fai, where is your mom?" asked Fang Yiwenpletely letting loose himself. "You''ve always said your mom is the most beautiful in the world. But we have never seen her. I was thinking since we areing to see you at your ce, we''d get to see her today?"

    Hyson smiled at Fang Yiwen which wasn''t like a smile at all as he told him, "My mum is not here. I knew you''re insisting oning to visit my home because you want to see my mum. That''s why I came to Uncle Shing''s ce before calling you over."

    "This isn''t where your mum is?" asked Fang Yiwen looking quite disappointed.

    "No, she is next door," answered Hyson.

    "I didn''t know there was a hidden plot here," said Shui Koshing. "And here I thought our Yue Fai just wanted to introduce his Uncle Shing to his friends."

    Hyson looked at Shui Koshing, "Who said I didn''t want to? But I didn''t think you''d manage to scare them like this."

    "What did I do?" asked Shui Koshing incredulously. He had long lost his intimidating aura. He couldn''t tell why these young men would feel awkward around him.

    But he was forgetting that no matter how he acted now, it won''t change the fact that he was Shui Koshing. He had a reputation that made people revered him and now, he even had an exceptional son whose reputation even overshadowed his own.

    Shui Koshing joked with these young men before he went to check up on the arrangements for dinner. That''s when Pei Zi Hongmented, "Fai, you''re really like a golden prince."

    Hyson''s brows knitted up, "What did I do? I told you I''m a simple person."

    "Yeah, right!" snorted Lin Zhen.

    "You all have to believe me, I just know way too many extraordinary people. But I''m very ordinary myself," Hyson still insisted on this point.

    "You have never been ordinary," said Huang Shuyi. "If you were, you wouldn''t be a part of our group. From a thousand trainees, we five were chosen to be a member of ''Fantasy.'' I don''t think that''s counted as ordinary."

    Hyson grinned, "Yi Ge, that means all of us are special. Not just me." He looked at Lin Zhen and asked, "Zhen Ge, you also know Uncle Shing? I can understand Zi Hong Ge since he is a second-generation rich guy. But I didn''t think you''d be familiar with Uncle Shing as well."

    "I have always paid attention to Finance magazines. It might be difficult to see his son''s photo in those magazines. But he isn''t the same. He is Shui Koshing. Master Xian''s father."

    Hyson scratched his head as he thought to himself how he never thought about Shui Koshing like that. For him, he was just Raelle''s father-inw, Shui Xian''s father. And now, he was also somehow rted to his own mother. So he never took Shui Koshing''s status into ount.

    But this thing could also be med on Raelle. Since in all these years, he had never even taken her status into ount. She might be a big shot for the world, but she was just his Ellie. One he could tease, annoy, throw his jacket at, make her buy ice cream for him, and much more.

    He didn''t know why people had to consider so much when meeting others.

 Chapter 324 - Bedtime Stories

    After having dinner, Shui Xian washed the dishes as he said and took Raelle out to the veranda. It was decorated with fairy lights and was a perfect ce to take a walk in the evening breeze.

    Shui Xian held her hand and took a walk, matching each of her footsteps. Breathing in the fresh air, he felt refreshed. His heart was really filled to the brim tonight with excitement that he couldn''t even express in mere words. He lifted up their inteced hands and dropped a kiss on the back of her hand with a satisfied smile on his lips.

    After doing so, he continued to rub her fingers and yed like a little kid.

    Raelle silently allowed him to do whatever he wanted. She didn''t pull back her hand and neither did she stop him from smiling like a fool. Her attention was actually all set on him.

    "You seem a little..." Raelle was trying to find the right word.

    "Excited?" Shui Xian suggested.

    Raelle gave him a nod, "That''s right. Excited. You seem a little excited."

    "That''s because I am really excited," Shui Xian honestly let her know. "I feel like this moment is really good. It''s peaceful."

    Raelle leaned on the wooden banister at the side as she looked at theke right in front of her. She gazed at Shui Xian and said, "Aren''t you tired?"

    "Not at all," answered Shui Xian. "I am so energetic today that I feel like I can use this energy to run 100ps or so." He was telling the truth. Lately, when he came back from work and opened the door of the cold and empty hotel room, he''d feel drained out. But today, he was rather feeling high!

    He really felt like he could run 100ps without any difficulty. Even if he cooked aftering back, he was still as energetic as ever. His energy reserve was walking by his side. How could he feel drained out today?

    Just the thought that he wasn''t alone was enough to charge him up.

    Shui Xian swung their intertwined hands like a kid happily as he pointed at theke saying, "Doesn''t it look like there is a door that might lead you to the moon?"

    With the sky reflecting perfectly on theke''s surface, it really looked like the moon was within one''s reach. Although it was so far away, one actually felt like if one touched the reflection of the moon he might be able to touch the moon.

    "But there isn''t a door," said Raelle. "At most, you can try to reach the moon''s reflection but you won''t even be able to touch that either." Raelle''s words were as rational and logical as ever.

    "Hey, but one can always deceive oneself, no?" Shui Xian gave her a pampering look. He wasn''t fazed by her words. So, what if she ruined the whole magical moment? If she didn''t speak facts, she won''t be the Raelle who crushed the defenses of his heart.

    "But for how long?" she asked seriously. "How long do you think you can keep up the deception?"

    Shui Xian touched her cheek with his fingertips lightly, "Some people can keep up the deception for a lifetime, sweetheart. There are so many marriages that are merely based on business prospects. And there are plenty who have deceived the world with a smile and looking like a happy couple. How many do you think are really happy?"

    Raelle looked into his eyes and said, "Hubby, you might be able to deceive the world for a lifetime. Can you do it yourself? Can you really deceive yourself for that long? Whenever you''re alone, your loneliness will keep reminding you of what you are."

    Shui Xian''s lips upturned a bit as he told her, "I was ready to deceive myself when I had decided to marry you. I thought if I am not able to love you, at least, I''ll be able to deceive you."

    "Oh?"

    Shui Xian heaved a long and heavy sigh, "But it seems it was just joking with myself. I could have never been able to deceive you."

    He felt her tightening her grasp on his hand and was surprised when he looked into her eyes. "I was wondering, why do you believe in love so much? Why do I think your whole life had been circling around love?"

    Shui Xian bit his lip as he looked around. He couldn''t avoid this question. And he couldn''t escape her eyes for certain. She could see everything.

    "Perhaps, because I''ve been influenced by my mother," he told her. "She was a lovely woman who was hopelessly in love. And the way she talked about love to me made me believe in love wholeheartedly." His mind wandered off to the memories of his mother as he continued, "I don''t know when it started but just like her, I became a believer of love. I didn''t realize it until it was toote and I honestly didn''t think there was anything wrong with it either. It''s because of her that even till this day, I still have a strong faith in the thing called love."

    He smiled gently at her as he went on, "Even if it hurts. Even if it''s painful. Even if it''s tiring. Even if the road is long. I still believe in it." He kissed the corner of her mouth as he added, "And with you standing here, holding my hand, my belief is only getting stronger."

    "You''ve always been close to your mother," shemented.

    "I was really close to her. I told you about it," he said. "The way she used to tell me bedtime stories, I even came to believe there was a magical realm which I just couldn''t see."

    "Who would believe in those stories?"

    "Yes, I was the idiot who did. But in my defense, I was a kid whose world was small but rich with imaginations." He lowered his voice and told her, "Don''t tell anyone but I once even imagined the moon fairy came to see me. It''s a secret between us. Don''t say a word to others."

    At his own silliness, he startedughing since his wife didn''t really react much even after hearing his embarrassing secret. But it was actually a relief that she didn''tugh at him.

    Raelle tugged at his hand that she held and with a jerk, his head leaned down. Taking advantage of this position, Raelle ced her lips close to his ear and spoke in a low voice, "I suddenly think my husband has been quite cute in his childhood." She pressed her lips against his ears making them instantly turn red.

    First, it was her hot breath hitting his sensitive spot. Second, her voice was too low that seemed unhealthy for his heart. Third, the words she spoke made him feel shy. Andstly, she just blew his mind with that soft kiss on his sensitive ear.

    It really wasn''t his fault that he turned red like a tomato.

    Shui Xian gave her a spin with their hands still interlocked with each other and she ended up pressed her back against his chest once again. And their inteced hands rested on her stomach. He bit her earlobe from behind and said, "But not so cute anymore. So, don''t tease me."

    "Okay," she agreed readily.

    "Did your mo..." Shui Xian bit his tongue and rephrased his question, "I mean did Yanyan tell you bedtime stories?"

    "What do you think?" Instead of answering him, Raelle asked her own question.

    "Hmmm..." Shui Xian hummed as he thought about this question seriously. "I believe since my wife has always been special. She must not have listened to bedtime stories like a kid."

    Raelle shook her head, "You''re wrong."

    "Huh?" Shui Xian was dumbfounded. "You actually listened to bedtime stories? Why is it so hard to believe?"

    "Not stories, just a story," she told him. "Yanyan only read ''The little Prince'' by Antoine De Saint-Exup¨¦ry to me. Until the age of six, she repeatedly read this story to me. Only this one."

    "Only ''The Little Prince''?" He inquired in surprise.

    "Yes, only this one," she answered. "Do you know why she read it to me repeatedly?"

    "Why?"

    "Yanyan said she wanted me to understand ''The Little Prince'' she didn''t just want to tell a story to me. She wanted me to understand its essence. And what it was trying to really say."

    "You must have really gotten it then," he asked.

    "Not really," She told him. "It took me a long time to do so. Even if you ask me today, there are certain aspects I won''t be able to exin well. But I can read out the story word for word."

    "Reading it and knowing its meaning are two different things," said Shui Xian. "I don''t think parents tell this story to such young kids. It''s a story that even adults can rte to. It''s too meaningful to kids to understand."

 Chapter 325 - Late-Night Snack

    Shui Xian tried to imagine the little Raelle listening to the story of ''The Little Prince.'' Even with a small brain, she must have carried around a serious and expressionless face while trying to ponder over the meaning of the story. And his own imagination ended up making him chuckle.

    "What happened?" asked Raelle when she noticed the way he was chuckling by her side.

    "Nothing," said Shui Xian. "I suddenly understand why Yanyan read that story to you."

    "Oh?" Raelle looked at him straight as she asked, "And why is that?"

    He gazed at her with gentle eyes as he quoted, "''[My rose] filled me with her fragrance, she had brought joy to my life. I should never leave her. I should have recognized what a sensitive sweet soul there was under all her silly games.''"

    With Raelle''s impable memory, it wasn''t difficult for her to recall that these words were from ''The Little Prince.'' But at the moment, she was curious why her husband would quote it to her.

    Shui Xian faced her and took her other hand in his own as well as he told her, "These words remind me of you."

    "Really?" questioned Raelle. She really didn''t know how these words were meant for her. She was definitely not like a rose. Was she? "Do you think I have a sensitive sweet soul?"

    Shui Xian smiled brightly as he nodded, "Darling, the best thing about you is the fact that you''re oblivious to your own charms. You''re definitely like a rose. People often only see your thorns and when those thorns prick them, they step away. It took me a while to pass your thorns to find your soft petals. But I''m d I found it." And what he didn''t add was that he truly believed that just like a red rose represented passionate love, she was also fiery and passionate. He already told her she had a beautiful heart. But it''s a shame she doesn''t think so.

    From the first time he met her, he knew she was like an untamed fox. Just like the fox that met the little prince. Because to Raelle, the world was the same as the fox that met little prince; monotonous. There were hardly any things that could affect her or hold meaning to her. But it was because of this indifference of hers that made him want to tame her.

    Wouldn''t he be special once he tamed her? Taming her only meant to have a rtionship that''d just belong to them.

    Just like the fox told the little prince, ''To me, you are just a little boy like any other, like a hundred thousand other little boys. I have no need of you and you have no need of me. To you, I am a fox like any other, like a hundred thousand other foxes. But if you tame me, you and I, we will have created a rtionship, and so we will need one another. You will be unique in the world for meˇ­''

    Shui Xian also wished to be that unique existence in Raelle''s life now.

    He brought her hand to his lips and ced a kiss on the palm of her hand as he told her, "The best way to understand the world is to understand yourself. My dear wife, you have never even managed to understand what you really are. How are you gonna understand the world?"

    "Perhaps, you think too highly of me," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian shook his head, "I think I don''t think highly enough of you." He suddenly bowed a little and carried her up into his arms in a princess carry. Raelle suddenly lost her footing and instinctively wrapped her arms around his neck.

    "What are you doing now?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian took a deep breath and kissed her forehead as he carried her inside the house. Calling it the little lovers'' nest would be better at this point since that name fit perfectly with what Shui Xian had in mind right now.

    "I think I digested my dinner as we took a walk here," said Shui Xian with a straight face. "I''m a little hungry again."

    "So?"

    "So, it''s time for myte-night snack," he told her seriously.

    "I wonder what does that have to do with me?" Raelle voiced out.

    Shui Xian looked at her with a fiery gaze as he licked his lips and said in a low voice, "If I won''t carry myte-night snack to the bedroom, how will enjoy itter?"

    Only now did Raelle figure out that the supposed te-night snack'' was actually referring to her. He was trying to hide his lust behind such gentlemanly words. But did she mind it? No!

    Throwing her on the soft mattress, Shui Xian pressed her down and pushed her hair back saying, "Finally, I have my favorite snack on my bed. Now, I wonder where should I take the first bite?"

    "How about I suggest?"

    Shui Xian looked into Raelle''s eyes and his eyes darkened. A very familiar heat surged within his body when Raelle''s mischievous finger rubbed against his face. Her fingerpad started from the forehead and continued to trail down in a slow manner. Shui Xian really wondered whether she knew what she was doing right now?

    Who taught his wife these tricks of sweet torture?

    Not that he minds it though.

    Hehehe... He is more than pleased to cooperate with her.

    "Suggestions are always weed," said Shui Xian in a hoarse voice. Even he was surprised by his own voice. She really had so much control over him already that he was fully aroused. And there wasn''t even forey here!

    Raelle pointed at her own lips as she said, "How about starting from here?"

    Shui Xian cursed in his mind and instantly caught her lips with his own. As their lips meshed together, he forgot everything around them. In that time and ce, only the two of them existed. There wasn''t any ce left for anyone else.

 Chapter 326 - Temptation Of The Snack

    **Author''s Note: Read this chapter at your own risk. That sounds like the worst warning ever. But anyway, I''d still say if you''re not of age, do not enter. As always, I''m just wasting my time with this warning. I know it and yet I''m doing it.**

    Although it sounded like an exaggeration, Shui Xian still felt like with this kiss he was floating in the sky. He felt like a dead star who suddenly found its light. He felt like his soul was set on fire and yet at the same time, his soul was submerged in cool water making him feel refreshed. Such a contradictory feeling.

    His tongue ravaged every single part of her mouth. The tip of his tongue grazed against the roof of her mouth, licked her gums,pped with her tongue, there was a fight going on. A fight that he neither wanted to win nor wanted to lose.

    There was no other sound around them. In this house, they were all alone, so only the sound of their breathing could be heard. Only the rhythm of their hearts could be felt.

    It was a kiss that made his heart race chaotically. It was a kiss that took not only his breath away but also his senses. He couldn''t think straight. He could only focus on those two lips of her that felt like petals of a flower. They felt soft, they tasted delicious, they felt familiar.

    As he pulled away, he rested his forehead against hers and looked into her eyes. In those nk eyes of hers, he felt like he could see their future. Perhaps, it was his illusion. But did it matter? At this moment, nothing really mattered to him.

    "Sweetheart, you taste delicious as always," his low voice sounded tempting. "And you''re bing even more intoxicating."

    Raelle didn''t question how he tasted the kiss. She didn''t believe that there was a taste to a kiss. But she had stopped arguing over this as well. He always smiled whenever he kissed her, why would she concern herself with the taste? If he said there was a taste, there was one. She would just go along with him.

    "Now, where should I take the second bite?" asked Shui Xian as if he was contemting over it. Suddenly enlightened, he kissed her ear and whispered, "I think I know where to take the second bite."

    "Oh?"

    Shui Xian ced two fingers on her neck and as if taking small steps, his two fingers traveled down slowly as his voice continued to say, "There is a treasure trove only I know about." Raelle could already tell where this was going but she didn''t stop his antics and let him continue with it.

    His fingers stopped at the band of her trousers and hemented, "To reach the treasure trove, one must pass through difficulties." Pulling her trousers and underwear down in one sweep, his fingers again started moving and reached the ce between her legs. Looking into her eyes, he sucked in a breath, "Sweetheart, you''re already wet."

    "I know," she answered.

    He pushed up her shirt and rained down kisses as he said, "Baby, I really want to make you blush. But nothing really works."

    He knew it wasn''t easy to get her flustered. Even though her body was really honest whenever they rolled under the sheets, she still didn''t have any expressions. The change could only be seen in her eyes and her voice.

    Shui Xian scratched her sensitive lower lips with his nail gently which made her body tighten slightly. It wasn''t that obvious but he could feel the change as he kissed down her neck. Then his finger gently probed her lower lips and drove in. As her body rxed a little, he added another finger in and her hot insides enveloped his fingers tightly making it difficult for him to keep his patience and sanity at the same time.

    While his fingers moved inside her and stirred a fire to burn, his lips continued to add fuel to that fire as those wet kisses continued down the valley of her breasts. As his lips pressed against her abdomen, his fingers moved inside her making her body jerk a little as a groan escaped Raelle''s lips.

    "Ugn..."

    Shui Xian''s lips hooked up into a smile as his lips continued their journey even down. Kissing the ce between her legs, his tongue darted out to take a lick. His fingers stretched her lower lips and allowed his tongue to join this battle.

    Raelle''s body trembled a little from this attack. Her hands fisted the sheets underneath her to stop her body from jerking away from him. Whether it was pain or pleasure, she didn''t want to run from it. Only when he yed with her body would she feel like a normal person.

    She felt things that she had never experienced before. At first, she thought she was just curious about this kind of activity. But now, she understood that was not the only reason.

    For once, she''d lose control over her own rationality whenever her body connected with his. Her body was not only honest, she''d actually have some reaction which was no different than the rest of the world. That made her believe that she wasn''t that different from others.

    Under the constant attack from Shui Xian''s fingers and his tongue, Raelle finally felt a pleasure washing down her senses. It not only drained a part of her energy, but it also made her brain overwhelm with pleasure to the point where she couldn''t think of anything else.

    When she finally found the focus of her eyes again, she was faced with Shui Xian''s face that was so close to her. There was still a white, sticky substance on his lips. And noticing how her eyes were on his lips, he smirked before he slowly pushed out his tongue to lick away the remnants of her pleasure.

    As her eyes moved with the movement of his tongue, his brain was buzzing as if losing all reason.

    "Myst night snack is really the best," he breathed down beside her lips before he kissed her lips again.

 Chapter 327 - Night Activities

    Raelle tasted herself from his lips. This time she really tasted something from his lips. She couldn''t tell how to describe this taste though.

    She only noticed how she was the only oneying bare here while Shui Xian was still fully dressed in casual home clothes. Raelle''s hand tugged at his shirt and he cooperated with her to remove his shirt.

    As he sat up to remove his trousers, Raelle also sat up on her knees and her hands greedily wandered around his beautiful abdomen. Her fingers ran on his smooth skin in wonder. Not knowing the control she had on him, her fingers were still being mischievous. Shui Xian shivered under the touch of her soft fingers.

    Raelle felt the slight shiver and looked up at his face. There was only fond exasperation, helplessness, and indulgence swirling in his eyes. He was helpless before her and he couldn''t help but want to pamper her.

    cing his hand on the back of her head, his lips engaged with hers in another kiss. He gnawed on her lips before his tongue again slipped in her mouth to run amok.

    "Raelle..." he called out her name as if humming it. Her hand was holding his shoulders and she paused when she heard him calling her name at this time.

    She didn''t know what it was but she was certain there was a difference in the way he called her name right now. Shui Xian buried his face in her hair and inhaled deeply as he called out her name again, "Raelle..." This time, his tone was even lower than before.

    His lips were close to her ear when he called her name and she felt like his voice touched a part of her body that she wasn''t very familiar with. Perhaps, his voice managed to tingle her heart but she, who had never even probed her own heart didn''t know anything.

    Raelle tilted her head instinctively and kissed Shui Xian''s prominent Adam''s Apple. Shui Xian''s body stiffed a little but it eased when she kissed there again. Opening her mouth, she bit his Adam''s Apple gently and started nibbling it like a kitten.

    Shui Xian let her do what she wanted to do. His lips curved up in a doting smile as he held her body tightly in his arms. He slowly pushed her back on the soft mattress and reached out to get a foil packet from the nightstand.

    He adjusted himself between her legs before tearing open the foil packet to take out the condom. Although they were already married and he didn''t have to be so careful while doing it, he still wanted to take precautions. They hadn''t been married for long and he believed there was a long way to go from here.

    Since it was a long way to go, he didn''t want to rush into adding another member into their family. They still had to understand each other.

    As he rolled down the condom on his manhood, his eyes went back to her face. He could see how she pushed her head up to see each and every movement of his. The tip of his manhood was ced against her core and he rubbed her already wet folds in a teasing manner making Raelleying her head back on the pillow.

    He caressed her cheek lovingly as he whispered, "Babes, it''s gonna hurt a little."

    Raelle stared into his eyes as she said, "I''m telling you, it doesn''t hurt."

    Shui Xian kissed the tip of her nose as he pushed the tip of his manhood inside her. She didn''t cry out in pain as if there really was no pain at all. But it didn''t reassure Shui Xian at all. It only made him feel distressed even more. He rubbed the back of his hand against her face and kissed her lips.

    Just like this, he patiently and gently pushed all of his length inside her. And even when he was fully inside her, he didn''t hurriedly start moving but gave her time to get ustomed to his size. It wasn''t their first time but he was being even more careful than when they did for the first time.

    When he rolled his hips, Raelle moaned out incoherently as she clutched his arm and her perfectly manicured nails dug into his skin. She wrapped her legs around him. Her heels dug into his back as he moved rhythmically.

    His lips found the erect buds of her breasts and he couldn''t help rolling, sucking, nibbling on those red buds. Her insides continued to squeeze his manhood.

    "Raelle, you''re so damn beautiful," hemented as he continued to move slowly inside her. He reached deep inside her and rubbed against a sensitive point almost driving her over the edge.

    "That-ah..." Raelle tried to speak out clearly. "That feeling... is back."

    Shui Xian kissed the corner of her mouth and smiled softly. Even though her words weren''t clear, he still understood her meaning. She was about toe.

    And just as he thought, soon her orgasm consumed her senses. Her core tightly clenched around his hard length as she shook under his body once again.

    He kissed her lips and swallowed her moan. He hadn''t finished just yet. So his lips wandered on her neck, corbones, and even further down as he continued to drive inside her.

    Raelle''s arms were wrapped around his shoulder as if she was trying to hug him close to her. Her nails scratched his back while her walls continued to tighten around him.

    "You feel so good, baby," he said in a breathless manner.

    He wasn''t even done yet as he rubbed her sensitive spot again and again. He seemed to have built up another tide within her. And it was about to break out once again.

    With Raelle''s third orgasm, Shui Xian finally came.. He felt a rush of feelings surging within him as heid on her body and breathed with a content feeling.

 Chapter 328 - Mini-Honeymoon

    The shadow of their joined bodies could be seen moving till midnight. It was already past the time Raelle usually went to sleep. But today, Shui Xian seemed more energetic and excited than usual. Because of that, they continued to toss and turn till thiste.

    He even hugged her to the bathroom and helped her clean up.

    While Raelle was drying her hair, he went to gather the soiled sheets and threw them in theundry room before changing the sheets.

    Even when he hugged her to sleep, he had a pleased smile on his lips that couldn''t be hidden. He was in a good mood and anyone could see it. However, right now, there was only Raelle and only she saw him sparkling with happiness. She found this happiness of his to be quite interesting.

    But before she could think deeply about this, she fell asleep. Sleeping had always been easy for her. She just had to lie down with a nk mind and close her eyes. Sleep would easily pull her in. Tonight was also no different, except for the fact that she was sleepingter than usual.

    .....

    When she woke up, Shui Xian was raining down kisses all over her face. "Good morning, beautiful! Did you sleep well?" His voice waszy and seductive.

    Raelle hummed in reply. Usually, she''d be the one to wake up first. Did she wake upte today? Thinking of this, Raelle looked at the wall clock and realized that she woke up right on her time. Then that meant, Shui Xian woke up earlier than usual.

    "I''m right here," he pinched her chin and bit her lower lip. "Why are you in a daze? Focus!"

    At this time, Shui Xian seemed childish but Raelle didn''t mind as she did what he asked for. She gave him all her attention and looked at his face intently. cing her hand on the side of his face, she asked, "Why are you up so early? You didn''t get to sleep well?"

    Shui Xian held her hand that was ced on his face and kissed her hand as he told her, "I slept peacefully. It''s just that in my excitement, I couldn''t sleep for long."

    "Why are you excited?" she questioned.

    "My wife is here to see me," he answered matter-of-factly.

    "That''s supposed to be old news by now," said Raelle. "I''ve been here for two nights now."

    Shui Xian frowned slightly, "It might be old news to others but it''s still enough to keep me excited. I got to sleep with my wife in my arms. I got to see her sleeping face first thing in the morning. How can I lose my excitement so easily?" He tapped his lips as he said, "But if you give me a kiss, I''ll be even better."

    He asked for it, how could she not give it?

    Raelle kissed his lips and was about to get up but Shui Xian pushed her down. "You''re here to see me. There is no need to work on the dot. Bezy with me."

    "You..." Raelle didn''t know what to say to him. "You''re teaching me wrong things."

    Shui Xian kissed her forehead, "It''s good to be a little bad sometimes." He paused as his eyes wandered on her body. A red silk bathrobe was d around her. It only reached her thighs and allowed him to stare at her fair and long legs.

    He looked at the red marks littered on her corbones and his lips hooked up in a smirk.

    He sat up and leaned against the headboard. Then he hugged her body up and made her sit on his thighs. She was facing him and could see his upper bare body clearly, right in front of her eyes. This sight early in the morning was certainly beautiful.

    Shui Xian was a gorgeous man and his defined muscles made him seem like a sculpture.

    ying with her hair, he told her, "I''ll take you out today."

    "You have time?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian hummed in response, "I just have to go for a couple of hours. But I''ll be back to join you at lunch. Then I''m all yours."

    "You''re still all mine," said Raelle certainly.

    Shui Xian chuckled at her words, "That''s true. I''m still all yours. I meant that after lunch, I''ll be at your service, mdy!"

    "That sounds okay," was Raelle''s answer. "Then I''ll wait for you here."

    Shui Xian rubbed her head, "Are you feeling ufortable anywhere?"

    Raelle shook her head, "No. Am I supposed to?"

    Shui Xian closed his eyes and sighed at her. The hand touching her head rubbed harder.

    "You''re gonna drive me crazy one day," he muttered softly.

    "Is that a bad thing?" she questioned.

    "Not really," he said.

    Since he wasn''t letting her get out of the bed, Raelleid down her head on his chest as she looked outside the window. Her hand was ced on his shoulder. Shui Xian''s fingers were still entangled with her hair.

    He wasn''t beingzy but with Raelle in his arms, he just didn''t feel like getting up either. It''s not like he had to extinguish a fire, he couldze around for a while, right?

    And if he could drag his beautiful wife toze around with him, then why not?

    It was okay to do something out of her daily schedule. She wasn''t a robot. She was human and he needed to remind her of that. She was also allowed to take a breather. Following the same daily schedule monotonously wasn''t necessary.

    "I might be done with my work here today," said Shui Xian.

    "Then we can go back tomorrow?" asked Raelle.

    "No," answered Shui Xian hurriedly. "Even if I''m done here today. We''ll stay for another day. I''ll take you around. Let''s just consider it our second mini-honeymoon, okay?"

    "Second mini-honeymoon?" repeated Raelle. She didn''t think it sounded right but what about it was not exactly right? Argh! So many questions!

 Chapter 329 - Too Short OR Too Long?

    Shui Xian ced his chin at the top of her head as he said, "It''s actually more like a getaway. I can hardly even consider it a honeymoon."

    "We have already been on a honeymoon," said Raelle matter-of-factly. She still remembered every single second of that honeymoon which alsosted for only two days on a snow peak. Cooped up in a cozy cottage, they spent quality time with each other and learned something about each other.

    Shui Xian ced his hands on her face and made her look at him. With her chin on his chest, she met his eyes as he said, "You don''t really think that those days were enough for a honeymoon, do you?"

    Raelle didn''t know why but she could tell this was a tricky question. Was she supposed to answer truthfully? Like hell, she would lie. So, she honestly said, "Wasn''t it enough?"

    Shui Xian pinched her cheeks, "Don''t even think about it! That can only be considered an appetizer. Especially since I hardly knew you back then."

    "And now you know me?" she asked.

    With her cheeks pulled by his hands, the way she spoke made Shui Xian''s heart melt. She looked so adorable. She didn''t evenin that she was pulling her cheeks. In the end, he''d be the one left feeling distressed for her.

    "I won''t say I do," he told her while rubbing her cheeks lovingly and gently. "But I''m getting there." He took a pause and grinned at her, "My wife is like a treasure field, I have to explore more to get more spoils."

    "I''m just a human, Xian," she said seriously. Shui Xian frowned when he heard her words. He was incredulous about why she suddenly said that. But it soon cleared up to him when she borated, "I don''t know why you think so highly of me. But I''m really just a human. Yes, a little different than normal humans but still a human. Do you really think you should cherish me like a treasure?"

    Shui Xian rubbed her head, "Why can''t I think highly of my own wife? She is special. Why can''t I cherish her like a treasure?"

    Raelle didn''t know how to answer that. Of course, everyone had the freedom to feel or think how they wanted to. She couldn''t possibly change that or question that.

    In the end, Raelle chose to avoid this question as she asked, "If that wasn''t a honeymoon, what is going to be?"

    Shui Xian was taken aback at the way how she actually chose to avoid the question. It was something so not like her. She was always clear with her answers. But right now, there was actually something difficult for her to answer. How very surprising!

    Since she wanted to avoid it, he''d just follow suit. "Honeymoon should at leastst for three months."

    "Three months?" asked Raelle. "Isn''t that too long?"

    "Who said that?" he retorted. "I think it''s too short but I''ll reluctantly still make do with three months."

    Raelle really didn''t know how this was counted too short. Perhaps her brain couldn''t possibly understand Shui Xian''s thoughts. How was his brain processingtely?

    "I''m telling you right now," he began again. "Make sure, you make time for three months from your busy schedule. I won''t hear a single excuse."

    "What are we even gonna do for three months?" she asked.

    "We have so much to do," he said. "We can roll on the bed. We can roll some more. And we can continue to do it." Seeing how Raelle''s face didn''t even twitch at his bad joke, he tsked and added, "We''ll travel around the world." Before she could say anything, he hugged her close as he said, "Just do it for me. I haven''t had a single day for myself in the past years. It''s been such a long time that I went abroad with the purpose of rxing. I want to do it now. Don''t we earn the money so that we can spend it for our leisure?"

    "You didn''t go traveling in the past years?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian''s lips curled up at her question. She was talking as if she had been traveling around to rx every year. Instead of asking him, shouldn''t she ask this to herself? Her obsession with work was unhealthy. She hardly spent time just for herself.

    "I didn''t," he gave her an aggrieved look. "Don''t you feel bad for me?"

    "I don''t," she answered straightforwardly which made Shui Xian almost choke on his saliva. "But I''ll still follow you if that makes you feel happy. Keeping the right bnce in life is necessary. Work and ying should have their own importance."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and agreed with her wholeheartedly. Whatever will make you agree to escape with me, it goes with me was what he was thinking to himself with a pleased look. Well, he did manage to dupe his wife into going on their long honeymoon. Now, he just had to deal with the projects at hand to make time for it.

    Hmm... It seems he needs to work extra hard so that they can leave in summer.

    Unbeknownst to Raelle, he even nned the whole bloody honeymoon in a good mood. Where to go. What to do. Where to stay. Everything already made a rough draft in his mind.

    He jumped down from the bed in a really good mood and even prepared breakfast while whistling a tune. One could practically see his excitement bursting out.

    When Raelle heard him whistling, she only nced at him before focusing back on the task at hand. She can''t seem to find her cell phone. She knew she ced it on the dinner table but now, she couldn''t find it.

    As if vanished into thin air. It''s not like the phone suddenly grew two feet and ran away.. But someone with two feet could definitely move it. With that thought she looked up at Shui Xian again, "Xian, have you see my phone?"

 Chapter 330 - Best Of Luck

    Shui Xian suddenly stiffened when he heard that. Learning from his previous mistakes, he actually hid her phone and his ownst night after dinner. He knew their phones always rang at the wrong moment and he didn''t want anyone to disturb themst night.

    He had nned to put the phone back in its ce in the morning but because of his sudden happiness, he forgot.

    "Did you check in the bedroom?" he asked.

    "I didn''t take it to the bedroom," said Raelle.

    "But there is always a possibility," he said.

    Raelle nodded and went back to the bedroom. He craned his neck and seeing that she went upstairs, he hurriedly turned around and opened the kitchen cab. He took out both their phones.

    He ced her phone on the kitchen counter and began to focus on making shakshuka for breakfast. When Raelle came back, she said, "It''s not there."

    "Oh, I found it," said Shui Xian. "It was on the sofa over there."

    "Was it?" asked Raelle indifferently as she took her phone from him.

    "Yes," answered Shui Xian curbing down his guilty conscience.

    Raelle already saw the way his eyes shifted and when she saw how her phone was on silent mode, she was certain that he hid her phone. There was no way around it. She definitely didn''t put it on silent mode. And she would never forget where she ced her phone. At least, she had that much faith in her memory. Besides, howe he found the phone on the sofa while she didn''t?

    However, she didn''t expose his lie. If he wanted to y then it''s okay. It didn''t bring her any harm why would she question it?

    "Let''s have breakfast together," Shui Xian called out to her.

    Raelle went to sit beside him and ate the breakfast that he prepared for her. There wasn''t anything extraordinary about this breakfast but it was still a special breakfast. Raelle took a picture of the breakfast and Shui Xian''s brows knitted up again. She did the same thingst night as well.

    He didn''t think his wife was the kind of person who would take pictures of the food. She had never done it before. Then why now? But he didn''t question it either.

    Sweet tomatoes, runny yolks, and plenty of toasted bread for breakfast. It was appetizing. Shui Xian even prepared a strawberry smoothie for her as well making it the perfect breakfast to start the day.

    After breakfast, Shui Xian got dressed hurriedly. He kissed Raelle and said, "I''ll be back soon. Be ready. I''ll take you out for lunch."

    "Okay," answered Raelle as she watched him leave.

    The house became too quiet once he left. Raelle hade to the door to see him off and once his car left her field of vision, she closed the door and went inside the house. She picked up her phone and read through the emails she receivedst night.

    There was only one person who called herst night and that was Cloe.

    Seeing her name in the call log, she made a call to her. Raelle hade to the small study in this house and was looking at the books on the bookshelf.

    "Morning, Chief!" Cloe''s voice came from the phone''s speaker as Raelle was cing the phone on the mahogany table.

    "You called," said Raelle as she put the phone down and went to take out a book.

    Cloe instantly turned into a professional person who seriously briefed about the details of the things that happened after the meeting yesterday.

    "I didn''t ask for these details," said Raelle. "In fact, that''s not even why I called you. I know you can handle things on your own. Why would I leave you there?"

    Cloe was pouring her blueberry banana nut smoothie into the ss when she heard Raelle say that. She was momentarily quiet. This trust her boss had in her really made her feel happy but also pressured.

    "Then why are you calling me on a Saturday, Chief?" asked Cloe after she pressed down her feelings. "It''s my off-day. I don''t think you have a reason to look for me today."

    "Well, I do have a reason to look for you today," stated Raelle.

    "And what is that?"

    "I called to say best of luck to you," answered Raelle.

    Cloe frowned at those words. "Best of luck? To me? Why?"

    "Because you need it today," responded Raelle matter-of-factly as she turned the page of this old book in her hand. It seemed that the book collection in this small study was originally, of that old couple who owned this house. They must have left these behind when they moved. Because some of these books were really old.

    However, Raelle could hardly understand what was written in the book in her hand because of the ancient text. But that made her more interested in knowing what was written.

    "I need it?" Cloe repeated it in confusion. Howe she needed it and she didn''t even that she needed it? That''s odd. But she didn''t dare question Raelle since if she said she needed good luck today then she definitely did. Especially since it was not every day Raelle Xiang would say best of luck to anyone. After all, she didn''t even believe in luck!

    "Are you still wondering why I''m saying best of luck to you?" asked Raelle and her question definitely hit the mark.

    Cloe felt a chill running in her body as she looked around herself. How was her boss like a ghost? Howe she could read her brain even from such a long distance?

    "I don''t have to be around you to know what you''re thinking," said Raelle casually but that made Cloe almost drop down on the floor.

    "Fuck!" she cursed out loud. "Chief, can you not use your mind-reading from such a distance? It scared me." Raelle could hear it in her voice that she wasn''t lying. She was indeed feeling scared.

    But was it her fault that she knew Cloe too well? Scaring was definitely not her intention but this added bonus was making her feel.... good!

 Chapter 331 - Disown You

    "You''re almost making me want to disown you as my assistant."

    Raelle''s in voice was heard again leaving Cloe baffled. ''Disown'' her? Seriously?!

    Cloe almost retorted, ''You''re not my parent who can disown me!'' But she stopped herself at thest moment. First, she couldn''t snap back at her boss who paid her. Second, if she thought about it seriously, Raelle wasn''t much different from a parent. At least, Raelle cared more about her and her life than her own parents.

    "Did you forget that you have a blind date today?"

    Cloe''s eyes widened, "Shit!"

    "Oh, you really forgot," said Raelle dryly. "But then again, I had expected that from you."

    Cloe felt like Raelle was roasting her but she couldn''t even retort. She really messed up. It was her blind date and she was the one who forgot about it. It was her boss who called to remind her! Like, what the hell!

    "Chief, you even remember such an insignificant detail about my life?" Cloe actually felt she was touched.

    "Well, my brain doesn''t have holes like you," answered Raelle and the touching feeling in Cloe''s heart instantly evaporated like it was never even there. Sure enough, how could Raelle Xiang be nice? Something must be wrong with her own brain to actually feel this way because of Raelle.

    "I..." Cloe didn''t know what to say for a moment. "I really forgot." She chose to admit the truth in the end. After all, it''s not she could escape the human lie detector Raelle. It was better toe clean in front of her than to drag this out and make it worse for herself. "But it''s actually because of you."

    "You''re throwing the me on me?"

    "No," said Cloe meekly. "I''m just stating the truth. Who told you to drop a bomb on me the other day? My brain was so muddled because of your matters that I actually forgot I had a date today."

    "What bomb did I drop that you weren''t able to defuse in time?"

    "You suddenly chose to ditch work," stated Cloe matter-of-factly. "How can that be any better than a bomb? I was shaken by this sudden development."

    "So, it was my fault," said Raelle softly. "Then, I apologize to you."

    Cloe was left gaping on her own. Why did her boss always go down the wrong road? How was she supposed to keep up with her?

    "It''s my negligence," added Raelle.

    "Chief, don''t scare me like this," said Cloe hurriedly. "I have a weak brain that''s my fault. You don''t have to apologize."

    "If I did something wrong, I should apologize. What''s wrong with that?" responded Raelle. "Besides, as a boss, I shouldn''t torture my employees to the point that they''d even forget their personal life. If I''m giving you so much work pressure that it made you forget about your own life, then it''s definitely my fault."

    "Chief, there is no pressure of work from your side," said Cloe as she calmed herself down. "Stop always evaluating yourself so strictly. Do you even realize that you''re harsher to yourself than to others?"

    "A wise person should always have the ability to judge himself before pointing fingers at others," was Raelle''s answer that Cloe''s lips turned upward.

    "Chief, did you wish me luck for the blind date?"

    "Oh, that''s correct," answered Raelle. "You dragged me off point. My intention to call you was to wish you the best of luck for your blind date."

    "Chief, you want my blind date to seed?" asked Cloe.

    "Is that what you want?" Raelle asked in return.

    Cloe was stumped for a moment. She didn''t know how to answer this question really. She didn''t know it herself. She had no answer for now.

    "I honestly don''t know," she answered truthfully to her. "Why don''t you give me a tip for this blind date? After all, you''re quite an experienced person."

    "My blind dates ended in failure," told Raelle as if Cloe already didn''t know that. "So, don''t you think you''re asking the wrong person?"

    Cloe suddenlyughed out. "Your streak of failed blind dates should go down in history!"

    Raelle didn''tment on that. No one could say what she had to say about that.

    Cloe took a deep breath and added, "I''m a little nervous now that you''ve reminded me that I have a blind date to meet today."

    "Since when did my assistant be a scaredy-cat? I should really disown you."

    Cloe felt like there was a hint of disdain in Raelle''s words and it made her sulk.

    "I haven''t dated anyone in years," reminded Cloe. "It''s normal to be nervous. Not everyone can be level-headed and always confident like you."

    "It''s such a shame that you didn''t learn anything from me in all these years," stated Raelle. "Shouldn''t you feel ashamed of yourself?"

    "Yes, yes, I should," Cloe actually agreed with her in a humble tone. "But the point is, I don''t feel ashamed at all. That means, at least, I learned something by staying by your side, no?"

    "Being cheeky, are we?"

    Cloe chuckled, "Sorry, I just felt like messing with you a little. It helped in easing my nervousness."

    "There was no reason for nervousness, to begin with," said Raelle. "You should trust Soren. He wouldn''t choose the wrong person to go on a date with you."

    "It''s because that Soren won''t choose the wrong person that I felt scared. I am not sure if I am even ready to be in a serious rtionship."

    "That''s not good enough to hide," was Raelle nk reply.

    ....

    On the other side...

    Yue Yue had woken upte today. When she came down for breakfast, everyone was always seated at the table waiting for her. She looked at Grandfather Xiang and seemed a bit embarrassed.

    "Just sit down, Yue," said Grandfather Xiang. "There is no reason to feel bad."

    "Yes, mum," added Hyson. "It''s normal to wake upte. We can''t possibly be like Ellie now. She is not a human. But we are."

    "Fai, you seem like you''re missing Elle," said Mu Chenyan in an obvious tone.

    Hyson didn''t even disagree. He jutted his lips out and pouted, "Maybe it''s because I have nothing to do these days but I really seem to miss her." He lowered his voice and looked around as he added, "But don''t let her know. It''s a secret between the four of us."

    Mu Chenyanughed out while she rubbed his head, "Silly cutie. How can you be this adorable?"

    Hyson grinned at her shyly, "It''s because I want Yanyan to spoil me."

    Yue knocked on Hyson''s head making him grimace.

    ''Don''t always butter her up.''

    "When did I butter up Yanyan?" Hyson felt offended by that statement. "I don''t even have enough butter for my toast. Why would I waste my butter on others?"

    The three elders at the table chuckled at Hyson''s words.

    "Anyway, mum, why do you look like a ghost?" asked Hyson out of nowhere as he faced his mother.

    Yue''s eyes widened and she pulled his ear.

    Hyson shrieked even though the force she used wasn''t that much. "I was just telling the truth. You have heavy dark circles. Your face is paler than before. I even feel like you''ve lost weight."

    Yue let him go and touched her face in worry. She looked up at Mu Chenyan as if asking for confirmation.

    Mu Chenyan shook her head and told Hyson, "That''s because Yue has been staying upte at night worrying about you."

    "Me? What have I done now?" questioned Hyson.

    "You suddenly got into an ident," reminded Mu Chenyan.

    "Isn''t that old news by now?" asked Hyson.

    "It''s not old news for us. At least not until you fully recover."

    Hyson looked down and pursed his lips. Why did he feel like he was being guilt-tripped? But this trap was actually working. After all, his main concern had always been his mother? How could he not feel guilty now that she looked like she was losing weight because of him?

    Turning to Yue, he said, "Mum, you stop worrying about me." He ced a hand on his stomach as he showed her, "Look, I''ve been eating so well that my stomach is even bulging out now. I''m even resting as I''ve been told. I''m almost fully recovered. There is nothing to worry about me."

    Yue looked at him lovingly and stroked his face before she told him, ''Chenyan is messing with you. I''ve been staying upte because of her and she is throwing the pot on your head now.''

    Hyson turned his using gaze towards Mu Chenyan who lowered her head concentrated on eating. She really couldn''t stand this cutie''s gaze.

    Grandfather Xiang had a soft smile on his lips as he watched this lively scene before him early in the morning. Since Hyson came to live here, there hadn''t been a day when this big mansion seemed quiet to him. He could always seem to hear either his loud voice or his heartyughter.. And both made this cold mansion feel alive and warm.

 Chapter 332 - Bear Children

    This lively scene of a family sitting together at the breakfast table was warming to Grandfather Xiang but it also made his heart sting a little. Why? Because it actually reminded him of the past.

    The past when everything was fine.

    The past where his wife sat with him at the dining table.

    The past where he''d see Mu Chenyan and Xiang Huilin bickering over little things.

    The only person who remained with him from that past was Mu Chenyan. But the girl in his memories was unrestrained to the point of giving him headaches. The Mu Chenyan in front of his eyes now, not only grew up but also became calm and mature. It was the kind of evolution that he never thought he''d be able to see in his life.

    But then again, he never thought his family would end up like this.

    Suddenly, a long-buried memory shed in his mind...

    ~~~

    Xiang Tianyu had a smile on his face as he ate his breakfast with his wife. Suddenly, a fight of chopsticks ruined his peaceful breakfast. He looked up and almost had the urge to throw those two bear children of his.

    There was only one Baozi(Steamed Bao Bun) left on the breakfast table and even though both Mu Chenyan and Xiang Hulin had already eaten their shares, seeing that it was thest one didn''t want it to end up in the other''s stomach.

    With the same thought, they both aimed their chopsticks towards the Baozi at the same time and ended up shing. And when the fight was at the edge of evolving into a full-on fistfight, another pair of chopstickszily came and grabbed thest Baozi.

    Both Mu Chenyan and Xiang Hulin stopped when they noticed the missing Baozi. As they looked at Madam Xiang biting into the fluffy wrappers, they looked disappointed. But along with their disappointment came their sudden fear with the realization that they were in trouble.

    Pointing at each other, they simultaneously shirked the responsibility, "He/She started it!"

    Madam Xiang leisurely finished the Baozi and wiped her mouth with a silk handkerchief before her eyesnded on this pair of siblings who had no blood rtion.

    "It doesn''t matter who started it," said Madam Xiang in a calm voice which made them even more fearful and nervous. "Chenchen," she looked at Mu Chenyan and stated, "You''re joining thedies of the military families to organize a banquet." Mu Chenyan''s whole person looked like she lost her soul. And then Madam Xiang shifted her attention to her son, "And you, Hu, are gonna run around the base until I say so."

    Xiang Hulin also silently epted his punishment but gathering the courage he pleaded, "I''ll run but Ma, can you let Chenchen go? She doesn''t like to socialize with those youngdies."

    "Auntie, I''ll run instead of Ge," Mu Chenyan also pleaded for him. "Ge just got his ankle twistedst night."

    Madam Xiang looked at her husband who was enjoying with a silent smile on his lips. "Look at your kids. They love to fight with each other over the smallest of things but won''t even let me punish each other. What am I supposed to do with them?"

    Although she sounded like she wasining, inside she was actually quite proud of these two. She thought she raised them well. They would bear any grievance in silence but would go to any length to support the other.

    "Just let them be," Xiang Tianyu decided to side with his children. "They are young."

    "Young?" repeated Madam Xiang as she looked at these two and shook her head. "The other day, Mrs. Han was telling me her daughter just won a beauty pageant and Mrs. Shen added how her son brought his girlfriend home to meet the parents." Then she looked at her children in disappointment, "But what was I suppose to tell them that my sweet daughter jumped out of the window in the middle of the night to join a bloody street fight? And my dear is always there to cover up for his sister?"

    "Ma, you should be proud of us," said Xiang Hulin. "Chenchen is so awesome but she doesn''t need to win a beauty pageant to know her value."

    "Exactly! And my Ge is already climbing the ranks in the military without any help," Mu Chenyan also boasted. "Which girl would refuse to marry my Ge?" In her heart, she thought if there was such a girl, she won''t mind practicing her newly learned fist technique on her.

    Madam Xiang really didn''t know what to say to these two. But seeing how they echoed each other, she red at them, "Both of you are spending the day kneeling! Don''t even think of moving or I''ll spank you both."

    Both of them stood up and ran away to kneel immediately. Who wanted to be spanked at this age? Wouldn''t that be humiliating?

    Behind them, Xiang Tianyu was leftughing out loud heartily.

    ~~~

    As Grandfather Xiang extracted his mind from that memory he still chuckled to himself but this time there was a hint of tears brimming in his eyes. There were plenty of such memories in his mind and now that he was old and sick, he often recalled those memories. They always made himugh in spite of himself and yet he couldn''t help crying because of those memories as well.

    Grandfather Xiang doted on Hyson but it wasn''t because he missed his own grandson. But just because he never brought up the name of Xiang Weimin didn''t mean that he didn''t love his own grandson.

    However, it was also true that Hyson''s entrance into their life really filled a void in his heart. And perhaps that''s why Hyson had eventually be even more important to him than his own grandson.

    "Fai, you get dressed first. You have a doctor''s appointment today," began Mu Chenyan after breakfast. "I''ll being with you."

    Hyson raised his eyes to look at her, "Yanyan, I know I love to act like a five-year-old but I''m really not five-year-old. I don''t need my mommies toe with me to the doctor''s appointment."

    "Oh, so you do know that you act like a five-year-old," teased Mu Chenyan.

    Hyson wasn''t pleased to hear that, "Yes, my brain malfunctions sometimes."

    Mu Chenyanughed at Hyson''s reaction and ruffled his hair, "Fine, my little young man! I''ll prepare the clothes for you. But take the driver with you, okay? We won''t be reassured if you''re driving on your own?"

    "Over-protective family," muttered Hyson. "What a nuisance!" He had a smile on his face which he couldn''t conceal as heined in a small voice.

    When Hyson went up to change his clothes, Mu Chenyan stepped over to Yue and said, "Yue, you''re so not cute, how did you manage to give birth to a cutie? Did you steal him?"

    Yue Yue red at Mu Chenyan and rolled the magazine in her hand to hit Mu Chenyan who took the chance to run away. Yue Yue was annoyed and exasperated since she couldn''t match Mu Chenyan''s speed or her tricks. She looked at Grandfather Xiang helplessly.

    Grandfather Xiang chuckled at her and beckoned her toe and sit with him. "I thought you got used to Chenyan''s mischievous nature?"

    ''I can''t seem to get used to it,'' responded Yue Yue. ''She has a heart made of gold. She loves to look at things in a positive, fun, and wild way.''

    Grandfather Xiang sighed out, "Well, that''s our family''s Chenyan." He took a pause before adding, "When my wife brought her to our family, she was really young. And the first thing my wife taught her was, no matter what goes wrong in life, there will always be a tomorrow. She took her words way too seriously. That''s why she managed to keep her heart as real as it had always been."

    Yue Yue couldn''t refute those words. Mu Chenyan really didn''t act like someone who had entered her forties. Although she repeatedly imed that she was old, her habits were still as unrestrained as her youth. Yue Yue really wanted to learn from her how she managed to keep the child in her heart alive and also that rebellious teenager. Because to Yue Yue, in Mu Chenyan''s heart was a pure child and a wild teenager living in strange harmony.

    "I went to see Zhai Feiyang yesterday," Grandfather Xiang seemed to be stating it casually but his eyes were stuck on Yue Yue''s expressions. "It was a surprise to meet Kuijun there." The stiffness of her body didn''t manage to escape his eyes at all. "He is your elder sister''s husband, I believe."

    Yue Yue stared at him.

    "I might be old and retired but do you really think it''s that difficult for me to figure out your family background?" asked Grandfather Xiang. "Although Yue n and Xiang n had always been at odds since ancient times, it has nothing to do with your rtionship with my family." He looked at her seriously told, "The only reason I brought it up to you is that they seem to be getting a divorce.. I thought you should know that."

 Chapter 333 - Charms

    Yue Yue didn''t look as surprised as Grandfather Xiang expected. She looked rather calm and somehow, he could also tell that she had expected this result.

    ''It seems my sister finally got tired of pretending.''

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head, "The one to ask for the divorce is Kuijun."

    Yue Yue''s eyes widened a little. Now, she was a little taken aback. She didn''t think it was possible for Zhai Kuijun to ask for a divorce from Yue Lan. He loved that woman so much. He loved her so much that he couldn''t even see anything else except for her back then. Howe he was the one asking to break this rtionship now?

    Grandfather Xiang took a moment to contemte before he patted her head and said, "You should prepare yourself."

    ''For what?''

    "Your nephew, Yanjun isn''t gonna stay silent now that he has recognized you."

    Yue Yue could also tell that. She had seen a million questions surging in his eyes but he just didn''t dare to question. Perhaps he was afraid of hurting her feelings.

    ''I know him. He won''t tell anyone that he met me. He might have grown up but I still believe in him.''

    Grandfather Xiang smiled gently at her, "You''re right. He won''t tell anyone that he met you. But he would definitely try to know why it took him so long to meet you. And some secrets, you can''t protect for life."

    Yue Yue pursed her lips when she heard that.

    "He is eventually gonna ask you questions so you should be prepared. What answer you want to give him is definitely up to you."

    Yue Yue suddenly thought of what he said earlier and questioned, ''Uncle, you and my dad...?''

    "There isn''t really an animosity between us," stated Grandfather Xiang. "But we don''t get along either. After all, since ancient times, the paths of an official and a soldier is different. They work for the same goal but they can never get along. That''s just how it works. Soldiers are hard-headed and straightforward. Politicians like to dream a lot and are too deep-minded."

    Yue Yue didn''t expect to hear this answer from him. She had always admired her father in her life. But since she met Grandfather Xiang, she hade to respect him as well. She knew her father and Xiang Tianyu hadpletely opposite personalities. Her father was mature, calm, and a bit stubborn when it came to his principles.

    Xiang Tianyu had a heroic aura. The might of a soldier could be felt from him even when he sat in a wheelchair.

    Looking at it this way, it was not difficult for her to figure out why these two men weren''t on friendly terms.

    ....

    As Hyson had announced, he really went to the doctor''s appointment on his own. Learning that he was recovering well, he rolled his eyes inwardly. He wanted the people around him to hear this since no one actually believed when he said that he was recovering well.

    Were his words that untrustworthy now?

    "As a precaution, avoid heavy exercise," instructed the doctor seriously. "And continue with a healthy diet. I can see you''re being well fed these days."

    Hyson almost blushed at those words. But he couldn''t deny it either. His cheeks were getting a healthy glow and soon he was gonna get fat.

    Hyson put on his face mask and a cap before he left the doctor''s office. The first thing he did after leaving the doctor''s office was to call Raelle.

    "Ellie," he called out.

    "Yes," answered Raelle patiently.

    "Ellie!" he called again.

    "Yes," she answered once again.

    "Ellie!" he ended up being as annoying as ever and called her name once again.

    And Raelle being Raelle, she ended up with the same reply, "Yes."

    No matter how many times he''d call her name, her answer would still be the same. She''d patiently wait for him to continue instead of taking the initiative to ask why he was doing this so unnecessary thing.

    "My dear best friend, aren''t you annoyed?" he inquired.

    "Of what?"

    "Of a friend like me?"

    "Even if I am, it''s hard for me to say it."

    Hyson nodded in understanding, "That''s true." He sighed out, "Do you know why I called you?"

    "Because you having nothing better to do right now," she replied matter-of-factly.

    Hyson almost stumbled when he heard those words. "Why are you always so spot on?"

    "It''s because I''m familiar with your behavior pattern," responded Raelle. "The way you started the call made it obvious that you''re bored. And since you''re bored, your mind can''t be at peace if you left me in peace."

    Hysonughed out because her exnation was again spot on. If he had nothing better to do, how can he allow her to be in peace? That''s not how friendship works! If he is bored, he has to bore her as well!

    "I just came out of the doctor''s office," informed Hyson. "And it takes about 10 minutes to leave the hospital. Those ten minutes are so boring. How can I not take advantage of those 10 minutes to annoy you?"

    "And that is so like you," she said.

    "What are you doing?" asked Hyson.

    "I''m getting ready to go out on lunch with my husband," said Raelle.

    "Oh, you''re going on a date?"

    "If that''s what it''s called."

    Hyson shook his head helplessly at her but she obviously couldn''t see it. "Well, have fun your date then. If you spent another day inside your room, I''ll fly over there to give you a good beating!"

    "You don''t have to find excuses to fly over here," stated Raelle.

    Hyson chuckled, "Who said I''m finding excuses? I can definitely fly over there if I want to but I don''t want to be a lightbulb between you husband and wife. After all, I''ll be the kind of lightbulb that shines brightly. You both will get blinded by my presence."

    "Lightbulb?" questioned Raelle. "When did you be a lightbulb? Did you start working on electricity now?"

    Hyson rolled his eyes at her words, "Ellie, lightbulb means the third wheel! I don''t want to y the role of the third wheel between you two."

    "Oh..." she said in understanding.

    "Click some photos for me," said Hyson. "Don''t just show off the food made by your husband."

    Hyson seemed to be gnashing his teeth when he said that. He was so annoyed when she sent her those two photos. Raelle had no social media and neither did she have any friends circle. So she could only show off in front of Hyson. He didn''t get jealous but he was certainly amused by this act of Raelle.

    She actually took the trouble to take photos of the meals prepared by Shui Xian and even shared those photos with him.

    "My husband can cook, why can''t I show off?" asked Raelle.

    "Ellie, that''s not how things work," he said.

    "Do I look like I care about how things work?" she retorted.

    "My mistake," he said helplessly. "Anyway, as I said, please click some photos. I am really curious to know if Meiji is as beautiful as people say it is."

    "You don''t trust people?"

    "No, I only trust you." He stepped out of the hospital gate and recalled something, "By the way, what''s up with Cloe?"

    "Why?"

    "You didn''t see her status?" asked Hyson and facepalmed himself. "Right, you don''t pay attention to these things. Well, let me tell you something. She posted a picture of a pile of clothes thrown on her bed and under it was written, ''So confused!'' I couldn''t understand what she is up to."

    "She is going on a blind date," was Raelle''s response.

    Hyson had a moment of enlightenment, "No wonder she destroyed her whole wardrobe! She can''t find the right outfit. What a pity!" Heughed to himself. "I should call her to encourage her."

    "Yes, you should," suggested Raelle. "She is nervous for some reason. Having your encouragement will help since she had be your die-hard fan now."

    "I can''t me her for being my fan. It shows her exceptional taste," said Hyson narcissistically. "After all, even I''m charmed by my own charms. How can she resist it?"

    "I am not charmed though," reminded Raelle.

    "You have bad taste, it''s not really your fault," he said as ifforting her.

    "Are you done?" Raelle asked.

    Hyson opened his mouth to say something but stopped when his gaze fell on someone. He narrowed his eyes and focused on that familiar face pushing a wheelchair around the hospital garden taking a walk. Since Hyson had paid so much attention to that person in thest week, he couldn''t be mistaken about it at all.

    But he was surprised to see this person here as well. Why was he here? And who was in the wheelchair?

    "What''s wrong?" asked Raelle when she didn''t hear anything from him for a long while.

    "I seem to...." Hyson didn''t continue when he saw the face of the person in that wheelchair.

 Chapter 334 - My Cousin

    Originally, Zhai Yanjun had nned to make a visit to his maternal grandparents house in the Capital but after meeting his father yesterday he dropped his idea for now. Except for his daily training with the squadron, he spent the rest of the time learning signnguage.

    Today he initially thought of continuing his study but then a certain someone came to his mind and he decided to make a trip to the sanitarium. It just so happened that the person he was looking for at the sanitarium had actually shifted to the biggest private hospital in the city.

    Pushing the wheelchair in the garden, Zhai Yanjun questioned out of curiosity, "Weimin Ge, weren''t you staying at the military sanitarium? Why did you move here?"

    Xiang Weimin moved his eyes to follow the birds in the sky as he replied, "Being a General''s son is not easy, Yanjun. I just stayed there for 24 hours and so many higher ups from the base came to visit me."

    Zhai Yanjun wasn''t surprised by those words but he still added, "It''s not necessary that they came to see you because you''re General''s son. Lieutenant Colonel Xiang Weimin is also well known in the army."

    Xiang Weimin didn''t really pay attention to his words and casually brushed it off with, "Anyway, I just wanted to stay in a quiet ce where no one recognise me."

    "That is so like you," muttered Zhai Yanjun.

    As the wheelchair turned, Xiang Weimin''s eyes fell on a tall and slender figure who was dressed like a thief. At least, to him, that cap and face mask looked rather out of ce in a hospital. Because of this suspicious look and also the way that figure''s eyes were set in his direction made him raise his brow.

    As he observed the other party, his eyes fell on a familiar object.

    "Yue Fai?" He mumbled to himself.

    On the other side, it was indeed this pair of soldiers that made Hyson stop in his track. He didn''t know why he was so surprised that he momentarily ended up even forgetting that he was on a call with Raelle at the moment.

    "If you aren''t gonna talk, I''m hanging up," Raelle said again when he didn''t speak.

    Hyson was pulled out of his daze because of Raelle''s voice. "I feel like something is wrong with my luck."

    "Since when did you start believing in luck?" She questioned.

    "Since the time destiny threw me on the same track as you," he answered. He was about to walk away when...

    "Yue Fai!"

    Hyson heard someone calling his name and stopped. He looked in Xiang Weimin''s direction who had asked Zhai Yanjun to wheel him toward Hyson''s direction.

    In fact, Zhai Yanjun was taken aback when he heard Xiang Weimin calling out Hyson''s real name. And for a moment, he even thought he was hearing things because he had been thinking way too much about Hyson and his aunt Yuetely. But as he stepped closer to Hyson, he actually managed to recognise Hyson even with a mask on half of his face.

    "Ellie, I''ll call youter," said Hyson hurriedly and ended up the call. To be honest, he didn''t know why he did that. His body moved before his brain could even process what he was doing.

    As Xiang Weimin and Zhai Yanjun came near to where Hyson stood, Hyson had yet to move.

    "I definitely didn''t recognise the wrong person," said Xiang Weimin with a smile on his face. Although he felt familiar when he looked at Hyson''s figure, it wasn''t until he noticed the watch on his wrist that he was certain about his identity. After all, the watch that managed to save their lives, how could he not have a deep impression of that?

    "Oh, it''s Lieutenant Colonel Xiang Weimin," stated Hyson as he stepped over and greeted him. "I didn''t expect to see you here." Seeing him on a wheelchair, Hyson inquired, "How are you doing?"

    "I''m good," answered Xiang Weimin casually as if his injuries were no big deal. "It looks bad but it really isn''t much. I just have to spend extra time on the bed." He sounded quite bitter when he said that. After all, for a active person, it was a torture to spend days after days on a bed doing nothing.

    "Yue Fai, what are you doing here?" Asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "I had a doctor''s appointment," answered Hyson to Zhai Yanjun''s question without any hesitation.

    Zhai Yanjun frowned, "Doctor''s appointment? Why? What happened to you? Is everything alright?"

    Hyson ended up smiling seeing his concern which he actually found strange. "It''s nothing serious. Just a regr checkup."

    "Are you sure?" Asked Xiang Weimin.

    "Of course," said Hyson.

    As they were talking, they caught quite some attention from the passerbys. Some young girls even pointed at Hyson as they whispered to each other. Noticing that, Hyson lowered the tip of his cap. He really didn''t want to be recognised here.

    "Since we met here, how about we find a ce to sit down?" Suggested Zhai Yanjun as he noticed the situation Hyson was in. He certainly didn''t want Hyson to be ufortable and he also didn''t want Hyson to leave just yet. He didn''t even have to find an excuse to go and find Hyson since fate brought him right in front of him. How can he let this opportunity slip by?

    Hyson looked at the time and nodded his head. Then he followed the two of them to Xiang Weimin''s hospital ward that looked luxurious like a five star hotel and there were even soldiers appointed at his door.

    While Hyson followed them he even sent a text back home and informed Mu Chenyan that he''d bete. He didn''t specify whom he met but he told her that he ran into some acquaintances so it might take him a while to go back.

    Mu Chenyan only texted back with, [Okay! Have fun!]

    Hyson smiled at her reply.

    "You''re not in a hurry, right?" Questioned Xiang Weimin.

    Hyson looked up from his phone and shook his head, "Not really. I have so much time on my hand these days that even I don''t know what to do with it."

    Zhai Yanjun helped Xiang Weimin to bed and then poured water for him. Then he also offered water to Hyson who finally took off his thief attire and ran a hand through his fluffy hair.

    "Weimin Ge," Zhai Yanjun called out. "You didn''t tell me how you know Yue Fai."

    Xiang Weimin looked at his face and said, "Neither did you, Yanjun." Zhai Yanjun pressed his lips together while Xiang Weimin didn''t pay attention to it and honestly told him, "This young man here is my saviour."

    "Huh?" Zhai Yanjun was surprised to hear that.

    "If it wasn''t for Yue Fai, I might have died in that pile of snow," Xiang Weimin spoke as if it was a casual thing. He really didn''t sound like someone who escaped from the mouth of death. Perhaps, he truly didn''t take death that seriously.

    Zhai Yanjun was even more surprised to hear that and he looked at Hyson in a different light. "So, it''s Yue Fai who became your guardian angel? What a small world." He patted Hyson''s shoulder and said, "Thank you so much for saving Weimin Ge''s life."

    Hyson smiled foolishly, "It''s not that big of a deal. Technically, I was just saving myself. He just happened to be there as well."

    Zhai Yanjun chuckled at Hyson''s reply, "Perhaps you think it''s not much but trust me, not just anyone would save a life just because they can."

    Hyson didn''tment on that. He didn''t want to speak out his views on the dark side of humanity. He had seen fair share of it.

    "Well, you didn''t say how you know Yue Fai," reminded Xiang Weimin. He thought the way Zhai Yanjun looked at Hyson was quite peculiar. There was a familiarity, some excitement, and even more hesitation. It piqued his interest to figure out what was going on here.

    Even now, Zhai Yanjun took a while to think about how to answer that question. And Xiang Weimin didn''t think he asked such a difficult question to get such a response from Zhai Yanjun.

    "He is my cousin," answered Zhai Yanjun after thinking clearly and deeply about it. He said it so naturally that it surprised the two other people in the room.

    Both Xiang Weimin and Hyson didn''t expect him to answer in this way and that was why they were both so shocked.

    Although Hyson already figured out the rtionship between them, it didn''t mean he epted it. But from what he just heard now, it looked like Zhai Yanjun epted it easily.

    "What did you just say?" Asked Xiang Weimin again to confirm that he hadn''t heard it wrong just now.

    "I said, Yue Fai is my cousin," stated Zhai Yanjun once again and this time he sounded even more confident.

 Chapter 335 - Quite Dumb

    "Really?" It still took Xiang Weimin to process Zhai Yanjun''s words. But no matter how chaotic his thought process was, he would never let anything show on his face. As a soldier, he knew well enough how to hide his true feelings. He looked at Hyson with an inquisitive look in his eyes.

    Hyson shrugged his shoulders nonchntly as he told him, "Don''t look at me. It''s my first time hearing about this as well."

    Zhai Yanjun turned to Hyson when he heard him say that so casually, "Are you serious?"

    "I''m always serious," answered Hyson with a good-mannered smile on his handsome face.

    "So, you don''t know that we are cousins?" inquired Zhai Yanjun. He didn''t believe it for a second that Hyson didn''t know about it at all.

    "I haven''t been told before," was Hyson''s reply. "My mum never introduced you as my cousin."

    Zhai Yanjun gaped at him in disbelief, "But it''s not like you can''t see it. You''re smart enough to understand what''s going on."

    Hyson offered him a smile as he said, "I be quite dumb when ites to such things. And as I just said, my mum didn''t introduce you as my cousin. Unless she does that, I''ll keep denying your statement. That''s just how I am. My mum''s words are myw."

    Xiang Weimin raised his brow at Hyson''s words while Zhai Yanjun went quiet. Zhai Yanjun could hear the implication of his words clearly. Hyson would never ept him as a cousin unless Yue Yue said anything. He was a stubborn person who really followed his mother likew. Perhaps that''s why he couldn''t even find any hint of curiosity in Hyson.

    Zhai Yanjun found it odd how Hyson wasn''t even curious about anything regarding his mother and her past. But now he understood it. For Hyson, nothing else mattered more than his mother. Not even her past.

    "You''re really peculiar," was all Zhai Yanjun could say as he shook his head helplessly. He was actually eager to ept Hyson as his cousin but thetter was acting hatefully!

    "And so I''ve been told," agreed Hyson.

    Xiang Weimin coughed to get their attention. "Well, I didn''t know you had a cousin, Yanjun."

    Zhai Yanjun shrugged his shoulders, "I didn''t know it either. I just learned about it recently."

    "So, Yue Fai is your maternal aunt''s son?"

    "How do you know it''s my maternal aunt?"

    Xiang Weimin gave him a disdainful gaze, "Your father is an only son. Only your mother has a sister. Isn''t it obvious?"

    Zhai Yanjun shut his mouth when he heard that. He couldn''t argue with him at all so he chose to give up. Just like he chose to give up arguing with Hyson who was clearly not ready to ept him as a cousin. It really made him sad, to be honest. After all, he was so excited since the time he knew Hyson was his cousin.

    But Hyson really threw a bucket of cold water on him with his words. However, as he went through Hyson''s words he realized that although Hyson was resistant to the idea of having him as a cousin, he wasn''t really against him. If anything, he didn''t show any hostility towards him.

    That meant Hyson didn''t particrly hate him. That sounded good enough for now.

    "I believe I owe you a meal," Xiang Weimin said to Hyson.

    "We can talk about that once you get better," replied Hyson.

    "That might take a while," said Xiang Weimin as he looked down at his body. This time he really was pulled back from the mouth of death. Although his injuries weren''t life-threatening, they were quite serious. It was bound to take a while for him to recover fully. And this period of time was nothing short of torture for him.

    "I''m a patient person," said Hyson. "I can certainly wait."

    Xiang Weimin nodded his head in understanding.

    "So, how are you doing?" asked Hyson.

    "I''m good," answered Xiang Weimin. "It''s a bit troublesome but we can''t help it. I''ll just have to make do for now and wait patiently to recover." He groaned in annoyance as he added, "It''s just that I don''t have much patience for troublesome things. I hate dealing with troublesome things."

    Hyson''s eyes slightly widened and he pursed his lips to hide hisughter as he was reminded of someone. Although Raelle always just said one word, ''troublesome'' Hyson really felt like if she could describe her feelings like others, she''d say it just the way Xiang Weimin just said. If only her expressions were as rich as him.

    Hyson took a peek at Xiang Weimin as he thought about how these siblings seemed to have such small simrities even though they had never met each other.

    "Even if it''s troublesome," began Zhai Yanjun. "You have to pay attention to your recovery. Don''t even think about running out to y."

    "Am I at the age to y?" inquired Xiang Weimin.

    Zhai Yanjun gave him a look, "There is a reason why your dad asked my dad to keep an eye on you. Age doesn''t matter here. Everyone knows how much you hate wasting your time. We are all worried that you''ll run off to do something again when no one is keeping an eye on you."

    Xiang Weimin cleared his throat to hide his embarrassment. It seemed that his track record was really bad. Even his own father didn''t trust him anymore.

    Hyson suddenly chuckled and when he felt two pairs of eyes on himself, he look up and coughed to disguise hisughter. "I''m sorry. I just thought of something." He obviously wasn''t gonna mention what he was reminded of or more like who he was reminded of. But it didn''t matter since the other two tacitly didn''t continue to probe him either.

    "Yue Fai, what would you like to eat?" asked Xiang Weimin. "I''ll ask someone to order a takeout for you and you can just eat it here."

    Hyson waved his hand, "There is no need for that."

    "Since you''re already here, let''s just have lunch together," Zhai Yanjun also chimed in at this time.

 Chapter 336 - Follow My Lead

    Shui Xian''s work efficiency seemed to have increased since yesterday just because his wife was around. And even though he was keeping a cold exterior as always, anyone could tell that he was actually in a good mood.

    And because of his good mood, it was easier to work with him. As soon as he was done with his work, he instantly ran back to find his wife. After all, he promised to go out with her today. He definitely was gonna keep his promise.

    When Shui Xian came back, Raelle had been waiting for him. She was d in in jeans and a white top. Her hair was tied in a high ponytail giving her a youthful feeling. But then again, she wasn''t that old either. She was barely in her mid-twenties.

    Shui Xian took off his suit jacket and tie. He rolled the sleeves of his shirt a little and extended his hand towards his wife, "Mademoiselle, may I have the honor of taking you out on a date?"

    Raelle stared at his handsome face for a minute longer before her hand slipped into his, "Yes, you may."

    Shui Xian grinned at her and lifted her hand to drop a kiss on her fingers before wrapping his hand around herspletely enveloping her. Shui Xian happily took her out for the date he promised her. First, he took her to a restaurant to have lunch with her.

    Although there wasn''t anything particrly special about this lunch, it still left a sweet taste in Shui Xian''s mouth. How could it not? Wasn''t it special enough that he was having lunch with his wife in person after over two weeks? He believed it was special enough.

    In fact, Shui Xian was one of those hopeless romantics who would find anything special. He''d give meaning to even the smallest of moments because that''s just how he was. Since his feelings tend to the extreme point, he never even tried to hide his feelings.

    Both of them had a hearty meal in the restaurant before Raelle asked him, "Where are we going next?"

    "Anywhere you want to go," he answered as he held her hand in his own again.

    Raelle had be so used to having her hand intertwined with his that it had be natural now. She didn''t even realize this change herself. But one thing was certain, she had befortable with this clingy husband of hers even without noticing it herself.

    "This is my first time here," reminded Raelle.

    Shui Xian smiled at her, "Then you can just follow my lead."

    "That I can do," was her response which made the arc of Shui Xian''s lips get bigger. He was really easily satisfied. Or at least, he was when it came to Raelle.

    For the rest of the people, it was difficult to please Master Xian but it was just a matter of one word for Raelle Xiang. After all, Master Xian hated it when people tried to please him but it was different for his wife who unknowingly ended up pleasing him every single time.

    Shui Xian was driving the car himself with a clear destination in his mind. From the moment he came here, he had been adding ces to his list. The ces that he wanted to show Raelle. How could he appreciate the beauty of his surroundings if the beauty of his life wasn''t right by his side?

    "How was your day?" asked Shui Xian as a way to start a small talk. It wasn''t really needed but he felt the urge to hear her voice. He wanted to just listen to her talking. It didn''t matter what she said.

    "Nothing really special," answered Raelle. "I looked through the small study and found some books that I have never seen before. However, I couldn''t read those books since I couldn''t understand thenguage. I''ll have to look it up."

    "Are you gonna learn a newnguage now?" asked Shui Xian.

    "Yes," she told him.

    Shui Xian shook his head but he didn''t find it as a surprise. It was something he''d expect from his dear wife. Her pursuit in life was knowledge and he already figured it out. It was her stubborn obsession to learn more and more but that''s what made her who she was. And he liked the way she was.

    Remembering how Shui Xian had told her to pay attention to things around her apart from books, Raelle added, "But that''s not all I did. Since I couldn''t possibly understand thatnguage for now anyway. So, I made phone calls to everyone."

    "Phone calls?" Shui Xian''s brow quirked up.

    "Yes," replied Raelle. "I called Opa and talked to Yanyan and Yue as well. I also Hyson. In fact, I also called Cloe to wish her the best of luck." Even before Shui Xian could ask, she went on, "Cloe is going on a blind date today. That''s why I called her specifically. I certainly know how troublesome blind dates can get. So, I thought I should cheer her up."

    Shui Xian didn''t know whether tough or to cry when he was reminded of Raelle''s ''blind dates.'' The number of those blind dates was high. He really found it a miracle that not even one of those blind dates seeded. He took a peek at his wife''s side profile from his peripheral vision and wondered, how blind those blind dates actually were to not appreciate this gorgeous woman?

    But on the bright side, it was good that all those blind dates were actually blind. How else would he have picked up this precious diamond? It wasn''t the first time that he thought this way and it certainly wasn''t going to be thest time. Every single time he''d be reminded of those blind dates, he''d call them blind for not knowing the true value of his wife.

    And then he''d sigh in relief that he actually chose to listen to his father in a rare moment of eptance.

 Chapter 337 - Part Of My Life

    It didn''t take long for them to arrive at the destination that Shui Xian had in mind. Feeling like a restless teenager, Shui Xian actually extended his hand to cover Raelle''s eyes acting like a kid.

    "What are you doing?" asked Raelle.

    "I just want you to keep your eyes closed for now," said Shui Xian.

    "If I close my eyes, how am I supposed to see?"

    "I''ll put my hand down when the time is right," he answered.

    "But I have to walk, no?"

    "I''ll lead you," he said. "You just keep your eyes closed for now."

    Although Raelle didn''t want to y this game of blindfold, she still went along with his wishes. It was just closing her eyes for a while. Was it hard? No! Was she scared of the darkness? Definitely not! Was it something she''d do! Abso-bloody-lutely not!

    If it wasn''t for Shui Xian, Raelle believed she''d have spent her entire life without ying this game of blindfold. But with Shui Xian around, how could she not y such silly games? Her husband seemed to love these silly games. And since marriage is the name of giving in little to your partner, she''d definitely go along with Shui Xian.

    In fact, even Shui Xian knew that if it wasn''t for him, Raelle would never y this game. It was kind of silly and it was definitely not something, she''d do. But he felt so sweet when she just allowed him to do whatever he wanted. The way she sometimes gave all the control to him really pushed his heart into chaos.

    After leading her in for about five minutes, he said, "You can open your eyes now."

    And only when he told her did Raelle opened her eyes to look at the scene before her eyes. For a moment, she didn''t even blink.

    Currently, she stood on the stone path which was lined with arches had beautiful pink blooms. The sides of this stone path were lined with beautiful Dahlias. As far as her eyes could go, she could see the sea of flowers right in front of her eyes. Flowers in different colors bloomed beautifully giving a magical touch to this ce.

    The spring is already a beautiful season but right now, looking at the beauty of this spring, Raelle was momentarily quiet. In this flower garden, it felt like someone had picked the world''s most beautiful flowers and put them all here.

    Trees surrounded by beautiful flowers, lush green grass trimmed to perfections, water fountains... Everything was screaming beauty. And Raelle had actually lost herself in this beauty for a while. She was someone who was fond of visually pleasing things. How could she not like this beautiful ce?

    "This is really beautiful," she said to Shui Xian.

    He smiled in satisfaction when he heard that. "I knew you''d like this ce."

    He took her around this flower garden. Looking at the wide array of roses, Aster, Peonies was pleasing to anyone. This ce could put anyone''s mind at ease.

    Raelle squatted down at a side, "They even have poppies." She pointed to the other side saying, "Let''s go over there. There are tulips there."

    Shui Xian had really chosen the best time of the year to bring her to this ce which was lined with beautiful flowers. And seeing how she looked happy, he was happy as well. Okay, Raelle was still as expressionless as ever but Shui Xian had managed to see that she was happy.

    This wasn''t like the world''srgest flower garden, it certainly wasn''t the most beautiful one as well. But at this moment, it had be Shui Xian''s favorite one. He happily walked around with Raelle without any care.

    "Hubby, you stand there," said Raelle as she asked Shui Xian to stand before the tulip field. There was even a fountain in the back making it the perfect background.

    "Why am I standing here?" inquired Shui Xian incredulously.

    "Because I am gonna take a photo," she answered. She clearly remembered that Hyson had told her to click some photos but he also said not just to take photos of ces but of people.

    Shui Xian was surprised by her answer but he didn''t say anything else at all. He stood where he was asked to and he even posed as he was asked to do so. And for the first time, he got to see how much of a professional his wife was when it came to photography. She had to capture the perfect angle with the perfect lighting and the most beautiful view of the background.

    Thinking about it, he pulled her close and said, "Let''s take some together. It''s no fun to pose alone."

    "Who will take the photo then?" she asked.

    "We can just use the front camera," said Shui Xian.

    "How about I just call Anna?" suggested Raelle. "She is around anyway."

    "There is no need to bother anyone," was what Shui Xian said but he actually meant that he didn''t want anyone to get between them. Wasn''t it awesome with just the two of them? Why gather other people? Besides, wasn''t it enough that her security team was still lurking around when they were clearly on a date? But he truly couldn''t do anything about that.

    And just because of Hyson''s request, they actually clicked loads of photos. But Shui Xian wanted to capture every single moment he spent with Raelle so he insisted on taking more and more. As they were walking through the tunnel that was like a pathway leading to a fairytale because of the way wisterias covered this tunnel. It added a charming effect to this ce.

    Suddenly, Shui Xian stopped when they were in the middle of the tunnel. Raelle looked at him as if asking him why he suddenly stopped. Shui Xian didn''t answer immediately. He ced his hand against her cheek as he stared at her face with a loving gaze.

    "Baby, do you know that you have be the most beautiful part of my life?"

 Chapter 338 - Become One

    Raelle didn''t know why he suddenly said that or why was there even a need to say that right now. She really couldn''tprehend his thought process. Of course, she knew he''d say the same about her as well. After all, her brain was even more entric than him.

    "Do you really believe what you just said?" she asked him.

    "I do," he answered without any hesitation.

    "You haven''t even known me for that long," she reminded him. "How can you say whether I''m the most beautiful part of your life or not?"

    Shui Xian felt helpless at the fact that she always needed reasons. He didn''t think feelings needed any reasons. If love was so carefully done, why would people even go through heartbreak? And even if love is done with caution and care, what''s the guarantee that it wouldn''t hurt one day?

    And that''s why he loved without any restraint. He always threw caution out of the window when it came to his feelings. Perhaps, that''s why he was so easily hurt before. But did he learn from that experience? Yes, he did. Was he willing to put the tag of caution on his feelings? No bloody way!

    He might have learned something from a heartbreak. And he might have once believed that he''d be careful with his feelings in the future but all of that was forgotten when he was faced with Raelle. She wasn''t cautious in life. She did things her way. She was never careful with her words. She would apologize to you if she felt the need to do so but that didn''t mean she''d stop speaking her mind out loud.

    That untamed feeling that her character gave him actually pulled him down the spiral of feelings all over again. And this time, it was done in an even bolder way. This time, he wanted his love for her to be just as untamed as she was. He didn''t wish to tame her and neither did he wish to tame his own feelings that were spiraling out of his control.

    "I can feel it," he told her with a smile ying on his lips. He held her hand and ced it against his heart as he asked, "Can you feel it?"

    Raelle tilted her head to a side, "What am I supposed to feel here?" She took a pause and told him, "All I can feel is your heartbeat. It''s strong and seems a little fast."

    Shui Xianughed out at her words, "Babes, if you''re touching me, how can my heartbeat be normal?"

    "I think you''re old enough to take control of your heartbeat," she stated as if it was the most normal thing to say.

    Shui Xian shook his head, "But I have already lost control over my heart since you walked into my life." He stepped closer and whispered against her ear, "Can you hear it? Even my heartbeat is calling your name." There was certainly no need to whisper that. After all, they were the only ones here. But then again, how would he take advantage of this position to drop a kiss on the tip of her ear?

    A person should always know when to advance and when to retreat. Just like Shui Xian who after taking advantage of the situation, took a step back and looked right into her eyes innocently as if nothing happened.

    But his dear wife didn''t really think that she was taken advantage of. It was just a kiss. A fleeting kiss. She hardly even felt the soft touch of his lips on her ear. How could that be called taking advantage of?

    And her focus was certainly not on that kiss either. Her focus was on his words. What did he just say? Right, he said his heartbeat was calling her name. She ced her ear against his chest and listened closely.

    "Baby, what are you doing?" inquired Shui Xian even though he knew the answer to his own question pretty well.

    "I''m trying to listen," she answered truthfully. She looked up at him and said, "I can''t hear my name. You''re lying to me."

    Shui Xian threw his head back andughed out loud at her words. He touched the tip of her nose as he said, "But you already knew I was lying." Raelle neither refuted his words nor epted them but it made it all the more certain that she knew he was lying. Her rationality would never allow her to believe that a heartbeat could possibly be calling someone''s name. And yet, she actually went along with him.

    Shui Xian snaked his hand around her waist and pulled her close to himself. As the tips of their noses touched, he breathed out, "What should I do?"

    "Huh?"

    "I''m a little scared now," he said to her sincerely.

    "Why?" she asked him.

    "How can I not be scared? I''m falling for you with every passing second. I''m falling deeper and harder than ever. This feeling is kind of new to me. I have never been scared of love before. But now I am a little scared."

    Raelle raised her hand and patted his head gently, "It''s okay if you fall. I''ll just catch you." Shui Xian''s eyes widened when he heard her say that. "I''m actually pretty strong. Trust me, I can catch you. You don''t have to worry at all."

    Really, there was no need to worry at all. Why would there be a need to worry when she was there to catch him? It might have sounded perfunctory if someone else had said it but to hear it from someone like Raelle was like a promise. A reassurance that no matter how hard he fell, she''d always be there to catch him.

    Was there still a need to worry about anything?

    Well, he didn''t think so. Shui Xian put a hand behind her head and kissed her lips. He merged their lips together as if he wanted them to blend into each other.. Indeed, he really wanted them to just be one.

 Chapter 339 - Our Own Fantasy

    "Come with me," said Shui Xian as he pulled her along to the table that had been set up under the shade of the tree. He picked up the flower crown he had asked someone to prepare from the tabletop and ced it on top of Raelle''s head, "My queen should have her crown."

    Since the flower crown was already on her head, she couldn''t possibly see it but she still said, "So, I deserve a flower crown?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head solemnly. "Yes, it''s perfect for you. Since you also have thorns as flowers do. And yet you''re the most beautiful one."

    "Not all flowerse with thorns," said Raelle knowingly.

    Shui Xian put a finger under her chin and said, "But my favorite flower definitelyes with thorns."

    "You mean a rose?"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "I meant you!"

    Raelle was left with nothing to say to that. What was she supposed to say? He was just that good with words that she couldn''t possibly argue with him on these things. No matter how much she''d learn from books, she couldn''t win in flirting. He was a natural-born talent.

    Her talent of knowledge was nothing before him.

    Shui Xian made her sit down on the chair and went on one knee, holding her hand, he looked up at her and called out her name, "Raelle..."

    "Hm?"

    "I am in love with you," he said all of a sudden. "I really am. I told you my feelings went out of control from the moment you stepped into my life. I wasn''t lying. You really wreaked havoc in my heart. You came all of a sudden and you pricked through the walls I so desperately built around my heart. Sometimes, your thorns even ended up pricking my heart painfully right where it hurt me the most but as they say, good medicine tastes bitter. You''re just like that." He took a deep breath and added, "From the moment your thorns pricked my heart, you had already stepped inside my heart. I just didn''t figure it out. But now I do. Distance makes a heart grow fonder and the distance of these past days made me realize just how much trouble I''m already in."

    Raelle was quiet in response for a long while before she opened her lips to say, "Aren''t such words used by boyfriends when they are trying to dupe their girlfriends into marriage? But we are already married, you don''t have to use these words on me."

    Shui Xian narrowed his eyes at her. He really wasn''t expecting any good answer from her but what did she mean by using such words to dupe someone? Did he look like he was duping anyone right now? He was so sincere!

    "And who made the rule that I can''t speak such sweet words to my wife?"

    "Marriage is the grave of love," she quoted. "Isn''t that what they say?"

    "That perhaps be true for people who fell in love first but not for us," he said. "Our fate started when we married. And our love will also be different from others."

    "If you say so," was her response.

    Shui Xian shook her hand that he was holding, "Baby, I really love you."

    "I heard that," she said to him. "But are you expecting an answer from me? Do you want me to repeat it?"

    Shui Xian shook his head at her, "No, that''s not my goal for now. The reason why I said that is... I just wanted you to know that I love you. And you should just know that. Just remember that your husband is madly in love with you right now." He rubbed the back of his fingers on her cheek as he went on, "I don''t want you to repeat anything. Because from the beginning, I wasn''t looking for an answer from you. I was just finding an excuse to say my feelings out loud."

    "If you won''t get an answer, won''t you get tired?" she asked him. "Tired of loving someone all on your own?"

    "Why don''t you try me?" he challenged. "Let''s see whether I get tired of saying that I love you."

    "I might never have an answer for you," she reminded him. "Not because I''m certain that I won''t fall in love with you but because even if one day I did love you, I wouldn''t even know it myself. I''m still that awkward person who can''t differentiate between emotions."

    Shui Xian smiled at her, "Some people choose to walk away even when they kept saying I love you to one another. And some end up spending their whole life with each other without saying I love you even once. Do you really think I want to hear that from you? I don''t. I didn''t fall in love with you because you love me. I love you because that''s what my heart wanted. It has nothing to do with anyone."

    "Have I ever told you?"

    "What?" he asked curiously.

    "That you''re a good husband."

    Shui Xian smiled and shook his head, "You never did."

    Raelle leaned down and kissed his forehead as she told him, "Then listen to me now. You are really a good husband. I don''t know what expectations people have from their life partners. I had none. I only knew the definition of a textbook perfect husband. And I also heard that finding such a textbook-perfect husband is a fantasy. Howe you walked out of a fantasy?"

    Shui Xian almost felt like his heart was about to stop. His wife was sweet-talking. Oh my! She actuallyplimented him. And it was different now since she didn''tment on his looks. What a rare scene!

    "I didn''t walk out of the fantasy though," he said. "I just pulled you in one." Raelle looked into his eyes as he continued, "So my dearest, dearest wife, let''s write our own fantasy. Shall we?"

    "I am only good at reading," she said to him.

    "It''s okay. I think we can do better if we write this fantasy together."

    "I''m willing to try," she said sincerely.

 Chapter 340 - Twenties & Thirties

    Hyson had lunch with Zhai Yanjun and Xiang Weimin. He found these two soldiers to be quite interesting actually. Zhai Yanjun gave off the feeling of a slightly withdrawn person. While Xiang Weimin was somewhat like Raelle who didn''t like to talk all that much but if you bring up the topic of his interest, he''d go in detail.

    "Yue Fai, your birds are really cute," stated Xiang Weimin after the meal.

    Hyson was surprised to hear that. Why did he bring up his cotton and candy?

    "You know my cotton and candy?" inquired Hyson.

    Xiang Weimin nodded his head and took his phone to show him, "I just gave you a follow earlier. And I noticed these birds of yours."

    "Weimin Ge, when did you start using social media sites?" asked Zhai Yanjun in surprise.

    "Didn''t you just say that Yue Fai is a big star? I was just looking it up," answered Xiang Weimin. "By the way, these are your pets?"

    Hyson sighed out, "No. Those were my temporarypanions."

    "Temporarypanions?" repeated Xiang Weimin strangely. He really didn''t know what that meant. Was he that old that he couldn''t even understand young people now? "I''m sorry, but I think I''m too old now. I can''t seem to understand what you meant."

    "I meant that birds are meant to fly, it''s not fair to confine them in a cage. When they are given the wings, they should have the right to rule the sky," answered Hyson. "I got cotton and candy only because I really wanted to see these snowballs like birds in real life. It just so happened that my best friend brought these snowballs to me. I was only allowed to keep them for a few days. Now, I''ve already said goodbye." He suddenly paused and looked quite depressed as he added, "I thought I was getting over it but you just reminded me again. Now, I miss my cotton and candy again."

    Xiang Weimin stared at him for a while before saying, "You''re really like a kid."

    Hyson sniffled as he looked back at him and asked, "Is that why you called yourself old?"

    "No, I am old," stated Xiang Weimin.

    "I believe you''ve barely entered your thirties," reminded Hyson. "That''s not old. Your life is just beginning now."

    "Life begins when we are in our twenties," said Xiang Weimin.

    Hyson shook his head, "Twenties is the name of mistakes, struggles, heartbreaks, and much more. The Thirties is the start of a new beginning. When we end up surviving our twenties, that''s when life begins again. We take the lessons of our twenties to pave the way for our thirties. Quite worthwhile, I''d say."

    Xiang Weimin was momentarily stunned by his words, "I take my words back." Hyson raised his brows at him in question. "You''re not a kid. You''re a lot more mature."

    Hyson chuckled, "Yeah, I also have the same opinion but it''s a pity that no one in my family thinks the same."

    "Why do I suddenly feel like Saozi really rubbed off on you?" Zhai Yanjun spoke from the side. "I suddenly felt like I was listening to her."

    "Is there a difference?" asked Hyson. "Whether you talk to me or her, it isn''t that different. Even Xian Ge said that only our exterior is different, the core is exactly the same."

    "I have to agree with Xian then," said Zhai Yanjun. "By the way, do you know how much Xian actually showed off to me just because his wife went over to give him a surprise? He pissed me off!"

    "Well, why are you jealous? Get a wife," suggested Hyson. "You won''t feel anything." He grinned to himself, "I am a big fan of this couple. Even if they kill me with dog food, I''m willing to take it all!" Hyson looked at the time and then said to Xiang Weimin, "It''s getting quitete now. I should take my leave. My mum must be waiting for me."

    Xiang Weimin actually wanted to hold him back for a while. After all, a person so full of life like Hyson was rare for him. He grew up in barracks where people had always been ready to die for the country. He had been so used to that kind of people that seeing Hyson was like a breath of fresh air. Even without saying a word, one could see a bright light surrounding him like a halo.

    The way he seemed so pure was the reason why he actually called Hyson a kid. Because he couldn''t possibly have imagined that he''d one day find such a light in someone other than a kid. He didn''t think Hyson was ignorant of the world or its darkness. In fact, he was at the center of it. After all, the entertainment world was known to be murky. However, it couldn''t contaminate his heart and soul, how interesting!

    But he couldn''t possibly stop him from leaving as well.

    "If you have time in the future, you cane to see me here," said Xiang Weimin.

    Hyson was a little surprised to hear that but he still nodded his head, "Okay."

    "And thank you for giving me your time today," added Xiang Weimin.

    Hyson waved his hand, "I told you, all I have these days is time. I have so much of it that even I''m sick of it now."

    Xiang Weimin chuckled softly.

    "You get well soon," said Hyson. "As you said, you still owe me a meal."

    "I won''t forget that," replied Xiang Weimin.

    Hyson nodded his head and offered him one of his most dazzling smiles. "Take care, next time Ie, I''ll bring my mum''s best chicken soup for you."

    "Then I''ll be waiting for that," said Xiang Weimin. "You also take care of yourself."

    "Even if I don''t, I have way too many people to remind me that I need to take care of myself."

    "You''re really fortunate."

    "I agree," said Hyson.. "I also think I am very fortunate."

 Chapter 341 - Cutie To A Big Villain?

    When Hyson was leaving, Zhai Yanjun offered to walk him out. Although Hyson didn''t need that, he still let him be. As they walked out of Xiang Weimin''s ward, Zhai Yanjun kept staring at Hyson who was putting on his face mask.

    "Stop looking," said Hyson. "I know I''m handsome."

    Zhai Yanjun pursed his lips at his words, "I didn''t know you were such a narcissist."

    "Well, now you know," was Hyson''s answer. At a remote corner, he stopped and looked at Zhai Yanjun, "It''s good that you are here. I had something to say to you."

    "What is it?" asked Zhai Yanjun curiously. It was the first time Hyson was actively gonna talk to him, he was actually expecting a lot.

    "Don''t just call me your cousin so casually," said Hyson with a serious look on his face. "No matter what our rtionship is, you''re not allowed to say it."

    "I said it to Weimin Ge because I trust him," was Zhai Yanjun''s response. "And I didn''t say it casually. It was alright when we didn''t meet but now we have met and we know each other. I just want to cultivate our rtionship. Is something wrong with that? I just want to be close to you. I want to know you better."

    "You can do that," answered Hyson. "You can get close to me. You can even get to know me better. But don''t use the word cousin again."

    "That is our rtionship," insisted Zhai Yanjun. "Your mother is my maternal aunt."

    "And that''s the only thing about you that I currently hate," responded Hyson. "Anything or anyone associated with my mum''s past is uneptable to me."

    "Do you know what happened with Yue Ayi?" asked Zhai Yanjun. "I want to know. In fact, I was about to go and visit my maternal grandparents to understand what exactly happened back then to Yue Ayi. I really want to know what circumstances forced her to step back from our life."

    "And who are you to question all that?" asked Hyson. "Did my mum gave you the permission to pry into her privacy? Yes, you''re curious but is that reason enough? If my mum is not saying anything, isn''t that because those times hurt her? Why do you want to pry open her wounds?"

    "That is not my intention," said Zhai Yanjun. "I was very young when Ist saw her. And yes, I don''t remember that time but you have to believe me that when I look at her, I feel like I''ve found what I''ve been looking for."

    The sincerity in his eyes pierced Hyson. It was these sincere feelings Zhai Yanjun had for Yue that Hyson was willing to be close with him. There was no other reason. He wasn''t interested in making friends with just anyone. But he was willing to learn more about Zhai Yanjun for his mother''s sake.

    "I know it''ll hurt her," added Zhai Yanjun. "I know it''s not my right to probe into her privacy but I want to know it. I have to know it. Something is bothering me since the time I saw her again. Do you want me to go to her and look for answers instead of doing it behind her back? Because trust me, I''ll do it. The problem is still that it might hurt her even more."

    Hyson took a deep breath and told him, "I honestly don''t know why you want to ruin the bnce we all have in our lives. But I am not gonna care about it either. You better make sure your maternal family stays far away from my mum. If any of them came to haunt my mum''s present, I''m gonna chop off your head!"

    Zhai Yanjun was taken aback by that threat. It was his first time to see such a Hyson. This cutie was certainly in disguise! How did he suddenly look like a big viin?

    "You can be at ease," reassured Zhai Yanjun. "I''ll never do anything to hurt Yue Ayi. I just hope you don''t stop me from meeting her."

    Hyson snorted at that, "As if that''s in my hand."

    As they walked out of there, Zhai Yanjun was still following him as if he was Hyson''s personal bodyguard making sure everything was alright with him. Hyson knitted his brows at his own thoughts. What bodyguard? This was was certainly a big bad thief! Who was actually trying to steal his mum!

    "By the way, you aren''t close with Weimin Ge," began Zhai Yanjun. "Why did you agree toe to see him again so easily?"

    "Your Weimin Ge is spiraling down the road of depression," said Hyson. "Being tied to a hospital bed is taking a toll on his mental health. I believe he is a brilliant person. After all, he is already a Lieutenant Colonel at his age. And as I heard earlier, he seems to be a workaholic so thiszy time is actually detrimental to his mental health." Zhai Yanjun was surprised that Hyson actually managed to see it all in one meeting. That was all that the doctor said! Not paying attention to his shock, Hyson went on, "Seeing how my presence allowed him to rx a little, I chose to just agree toe. It''s not like it''s a big deal. I have a lot of time on my hand."

    "You''re really thoughtful and kind," said Zhai Yanjun with a smile on his face. He really didn''t think he''d get to see such a side of Hyson today. Well, it seems his Idol cousin was actually really down-to-earth. "Thank you for thinking about Weimin Ge. He really needspany these days."

    "Does he y games?" asked Hyson.

    Zhai Yanjun shook his head, "He had never been interested in that."

    Hyson tsked at that, "That''s such a pity. We could y games together to divert his attention." Suddenly thinking of something, he added, "How about you get him some books? Ellie spent her whole life reading books and she turned out quite alright. I believe it''ll help your Weimin Ge as well."

    "I''ll try that then," said Zhai Yanjun. He actually looked like an elder brother who was trying to spoil his younger brother by agreeing to anything.. Currently, if Hyson would have asked for Zhai Yanjun''s most precious thing, he might have even offered it to Hyson.

 Chapter 342 - Slay It

    *Ding-Dong!*

    Hearing the sound of the doorbell, Cloe was frustrated. She went to open the door with her hair wrapped in a towel. Even after an hour of rummaging through her closet, she didn''t find that perfect outfit for the blind date. How would she be able to do so?

    All her clothes were work clothes. She hadn''t gone on dates for years, why would she spend money on those dresses?

    As she opened the door, she was surprised to see that the man standing outside the door was actually one of Raelle''s security team. She really didn''t expect to see this person here. And while she was lost in thought, he extended a rectangr box towards her.

    Cloe raised her brow at him.

    "Missy asked to deliver this to you," he told her.

    "Chief asked you to give this to me?" she asked again to confirm it.

    "Yes," he answered to her truthfully.

    "Why?" she asked.

    "I don''t know that," he again truthfully stated.

    "Oh-okay," she said. "Thank you!"

    He gave her a nod and turned to leave. Cloe closed the door and went inside with that box in her hand. As she opened it, she was stunned to see the content inside it.

    Thereid the perfect outfit for her date. A ck long-sleeved top, a denim wrap pencil midi. There was even a note that read: ''ck is always safe. It can never go wrong for a date.'' Cloe chuckled when she read that and continued to read further: ''Wear your ck cowboy boots with this and don''t forget a ck bag. As for essories, I won''tment.''

    Cloe held this note and continued to look at the outfit that wasn''t over the top but also wasn''t that casual. It was actually quitefortable for a blind date. As always, her Chief''s fashion choices could never go wrong. No way!

    Cloe had to give this credit to Raelle since from the time he had met Raelle, he had only seen Raelle as a fashion icon. And today, this fashion icon of hers actually came to her rescue once again.

    Cloe bit the inside of her lip as she fell into deep thought. How was it that someone like Raelle Xiang always came to save her like a knight in shining armor? It was truly amazing.

    She knew not everyone was fortunate enough to get a thoughtful boss like Raelle. She was truly lucky in this aspect.

    With a nod, she went to get ready for her date. She wore the outfit sent by Raelle, she spent a while finding her cowboy boots but finally managed to do so. Even she had forgotten that she had these boots but Raelle''s impable memory would really not forget it that easily. She chose a simple pendant and earring to match with her outfit, curled her dark blonde hair, and took a ck bag.

    Looking at her own reflection, she had to say that she looked gorgeous. The cktop had a wide neckline which allowed one to see her beautiful cor bones. She took her phone and found a message from Hyson that read: [Yo, my beautiful fan! I heard you''re going on a blind date today. Dress up and y it! Whether you like him or not, don''t forget to y. If you like him, show him your perfect side. If you don''t end up liking him, show him your even better side. After all, you need to show him what he can''t have!]

    Cloe put her hand over her mouth and burst outughing when she read it.

    "I can''t believe I am a fan of this young man!" she said to herself while shaking her head.

    She took a mirror selfie and sent it to Hyson asking, "You think I''m ready to y?"

    Hyson didn''t reply immediately. In fact, she had just locked the door of her apartment and stepped out when she received a reply from him which read: [Go, get it, tiger!]

    As she was staring at that message, he sent another one, [I meant, get it, tigress! I mixed up the gender earlier!]

    "With you cheering for me like this, I''m definitely gonna get it!" she replied to him.

    [That''s the spirit!] He replied.

    Cloe shook her head and got into her car. She tapped the steering wheel in trepidation. She patted her own cheeks and reminded herself, "It''s just a date. Why the hell are you so nervous? You meet men every single day. How is this one gonna be any different? It''s not like he can eat me! Get it together!"

    She had yet to step on the elerator when her phone rang. She looked at the caller id and scowled. She was actually in a good mood today. Even if she was nervous, it was a good kind of nervous like she was expecting to enter a new chapter of her life. She was looking forward to it. But this phone call really made her smile disappear.

    The call was from her mother and she knew if she picked up this call, she''d definitely not be going on a date anymore since she''d be too depressed to do anything. It was always the same pattern. She held up her phone and contemted. Looking at her dress that her boss sent her specifically for this date, she hung up the call and muted the phone before getting on the road.

    She didn''t want to give up on her future just because her past was holding her back. Didn''t her mother always remind her how her younger sister had already built a family and yet she was an old single hag? Well, then it was time for this old hag to move on.

    "My future, here Ie," she muttered to herself and yed music to dispel the silence in the car that might pull her in the whirlpool of thoughts.. She didn''t wish to go down that road for now, it was time to change her route.

 Chapter 343 - Itâ€™s A Blind Date

    She came to the restaurant and dropped her phone in her bag. If possible, she would like to forget about this phone for a while.

    "Miss, do you have a reservation?"

    Cloe nodded her head, "Soren Ke." She told the name since the reservation was made by Soren. As he had said to her, all she had to do was to show up. And she followed his words.

    The smile on the attendant''s face deepened as she nodded and directed her towards the third floor. The attendant opened the door of the private room and respectfully bowed before leaving.

    Cloe walked inside the room and was taken aback by the person sitting inside. Cui Xukun almost knocked on his chair as he tried to stand up to greet her. He looked a bit clumsy which made Cloe''s lips twitch a little but she held herself back fromughing.

    Cloe looked at the room once again before asking, "Soren sent you here, right?"

    Cui Xukun was still in a daze or more like a shock as he nodded his head in reply. Once Cloe got that answer, she raised her brow slightly in wonder. What are the chances? She actually met her blind date even before the blind date.

    She walked inside and gracefully sat down before Cui Xukun who was still standing and whose eyes were glued to her. Cloe could actually tell that he was very shocked to see her here. She didn''t know why was that though?

    Indeed, Cui Xukun was really not himself right now. Never even in his wildest dreams did he expect to meet Cloe on this blind date. His brother-inw, Soren asked him to go on a date with a friend of his. He was not ready for it. Since he saw Cloe with his friend, Shui Xian, he had been in the mood for nothing.

    Seeing Cloe at the hospital the other day, he was already happy but he knew he was hopeless. The reason why he was mad at his nephew, Samuel was because he already had no hope. And seeing how Samuel pulled a prank on him, his inner feelings got the best of him and he scolded his nephew.

    "Are you nning to stand there?" Cloe voiced out her question since he was still standing like a statue even after five minutes.

    Cui Xukun snapped out of it when he heard her voice and hurriedly said, "I''m sorry! I didn''t mean to disrespect you. Trust me, that was not the intention."

    Cloe pushed a ss of water in front of him, "Have some water and calm down first." Although he was really clumsy, Cloe was really amused by the way he was acting. It had been a while for her to see someone so flustered. She was always surrounded by perfectionists since Raelle could even transform even the clumsiest people into professionals. This change was quite refreshing to her.

    "Let me introduce myself first," said Cloe. "I''m Cloe Jones."

    "Cui Xukun," he replied. "Nice to meet you." He lowered his eyes and frowned to himself thinking about why Cloe was here and couldn''t help asking, "Did my brother-inw... I mean Soren really sent you for this blind date?"

    "Is anyone elseing?" she inquired. "I didn''t get the memo though."

    Cui Xukun shook his head, "No, that''s not what I mean. I just..." He didn''t know how to say it. "I just didn''t expect you''ll be my blind date."

    "You''re not happy with that?" she asked as she perched her face on her hand.

    "No, no! I am really happy to see you here," he answered hurriedly. Cloe''s eyes widened a little when he said it like that. Realizing what he just said, Cui Xukun bit down his tongue. What the hell was he even saying?! Was he a teenager? How could he stutter before the person he had a crush on? He really thought he grew out of that stage but apparently, he was only fooling himself. "Actually, it''s just that... Aren''t you with Shui Xian? That''s why I''m surprised to see you here."

    If Cloe had been drinking the water, she would have spurted it out at his face for saying that. What the fuck?! When did she get together with Master Xian? Wouldn''t Raelle Xiang murder her even if her name came in the same sentence as her husband? Cloe shuddered at the thought.

    "Stop right there!" She leaned back in her chair and asked, "When did I get together with Master Xian? And howe even I don''t know that? Besides, do you hate me so much?"

    "I don''t hate you," was the first thing he said.

    "If you don''t hate me, why would you wish for my death?" she added. "Attaching my name with Master Xian is like a death sentence for me." She took a deep breath, "Seriously, what made you think I''m with Master Xian?"

    "I saw you both together," he answered truthfully. "Outside your apartment building. He was giving you a water bottle."

    Cloe recalled that night and almost spewed out blood. That was the first time she learned about her Chief''s husband''s identity. She clearly remembered that night. Every single detail was etched into her brain. So when he said that, everything came rushing back to her.

    "Do you know that Master Xian is married?" asked Cloe.

    Cui Xukun nodded his head, "Yes, he told me that."

    "And he didn''t tell you who his wife is?"

    Cui Xukun shook his head, "He didn''t say that."

    "If he didn''t say it doesn''t mean you should just assume anything," she said to him. "His wife is my boss. If she learned that someone attached her husband''s name with mine, she''ll kill me." Okay, she agreed that Raelle won''t go that far but still... She really had no faith in Raelle Xiang. After all, she was all too well familiar with Raelle''s protectiveness.

    If she imed something as hers, she''d never let another person look at that thing. And currently, they were talking about not something but someone and someone happened to be her husband! The consequences couldn''t even be imagined!

 Chapter 344 - Itâ€™s Still The Blind Date

    Cui Xukun really didn''t care what else she said. His attention was only on the fact that Cloe was not with Shui Xian. It meant Cloe was single. And it was because she was single that she came on this blind date. And she is on this blind date with him!

    Fuck!

    He cursed inside his head. He only processed this information. He was on a date with his crush! Why didn''t Soren tell him about this? He''d have dressed better rather than this casual style. And he''d have gone to the salon to get perfect hair. What the hell!

    Shit! He just acted like a little kid before his crush! He is really hopeless.

    Cloe curled her fingers and knocked on the tabletop to get his attention back as she said, "Having fun with overthinking?"

    Cui Xukun was surprised that she actually saw through him.

    Cloe chuckled at the way he rubbed his nose in embarrassment and said, "And here I was thinking Soren would send a stiff guy like himself for this blind date." He took a pause and added, "Soren said so much about you but I feel like you''re nothing like what he said."

    "Is it good or bad?" he asked nervously.

    "I think it''s good," she answered with a mischievous light in her eyes. She actually felt like she was bullying him right now. "By the way, why are acting so strange? Don''t tell me you fell in love with me at first sight?"

    Cui Xukun smiled at her and said, "You can say it like that."

    Cloe opened her eyes wide at his reply, "Really?"

    Cui Xukun nodded his head. "But let''s not talk about that. Let''s eat something first."

    He rang the bell to get the food delivered. It seemed Soren even ordered the food for them and all they had to do was to get it served. Really, Soren was really detailed-oriented.

    "The other day, my nephew disturbed you, I''m sorry for that again," said Cui Xukun.

    "That was Soren''s son?" she asked.

    Cui Xukun nodded his head, "Yeah, that''s his son. Samuel Ke."

    Cloe nodded her head, "You don''t have to say sorry. If anyone should, I''ll get that Soren to apologize to me!"

    Cui Xukun pursed his lips when he saw her nning to get his brother-inw to apologize to her. It seemed like he got Soren in trouble but he didn''t care. Who asked him to y with his feelings like this? He knew that Cloe didn''t have a partner and yet he watched me wallow in grief?! That''s uneptable!

    As they both got a littlefortable with each other''s presence, they started talking about all sorts of things that they were interested in. And just like that, the atmosphere turnedfortable around them. They didn''t feel the earlier apprehension they both had towards this blind date.

    Cloe was surprised to find that Cui Xukun was actually a friend of Shui Xian. She didn''t think there''d be this kind of possibility around here.

    "Master Xian still didn''t tell you about his wife even though you guys had been childhood friends?" she was confused about this point. Even Raelle told her best friend about their marriage. Not only that, Raelle even told her about it. Although she got to learn about Shui Xian''s identity a littleter than Hyson, it was still okay. At least, she knew about this. There were still so many people who didn''t even know that Shui Xian and Raelle Xiang were married. Let''s take her blind date, Cui Xukun as an example.

    "We drifted apart with time," he had told her with a bit of sadness dripping in his words. "Now, we can hardly be considered acquaintances."

    Cloe didn''t try to pry into his matters deeply. After all, it was not her ce to do so. Besides, it didn''t matter to her. How many people can maintain a friendship for that long? Not everyone has an affinity like Raelle and Hyson. Normal people would lose their friends at one stage of their lives.

    "By the way, who is your boss?" asked Cui Xukun. "I mean Xian''s wife. Who is she?"

    Cloe took a pause before telling him, "Raelle Xiang."

    Cui Xukun nodded his head but suddenly stiffened. He looked at her hard as if looking for confirmation from her that he heard it right.

    Cloe gave him a smile, "Yes, she is that bid boss behind the Xiang Group of Companies. Also, she is the one who built Wanda Enterprises single-handedly. Pretty impressive, right?"

    Cui Xukun took a while to say, "Impressive? Are you sure that''s enough to describe her?"

    Cloe shook her head honestly, "In my opinion, no word is enough to describe her. She is in a league of her own. From the very beginning, she was nothing like us mortals."

    "You really admire her," stated Cui Xukun.

    Cloe shrugged her shoulders, "I can''t help it. There are two types of people in the world. Attention seeker and attention catcher. She is definitely in thetter category since wherever she is, she''ll make you turn your head and look back at her."

    Cui Xukun was dumbstruck actually, "I still can''t believe that Xian married President Raelle. That..."

    "That''s a perfect match," said Cloe. Cui Xukun looked at her as she went on, "They both are extraordinary individuals. If they aren''t meant for each other who is? It isn''t a Cindere story where just anyone can catch the prince charming''s attention."

    "Perhaps Cindere stories still end well," said Cui Xukun. "Marriages in the high society are chaotic. They don''t end well even when two people are in love. You can see how Xian''sst marriage ended. They were both of the same statuses and yet they fell apart."

    "I didn''t talk about the status here," was her response. "I said they both are extraordinary as people. It has nothing to do with who they really are."

    Cui Xukun was surprised when he heard that. It seemed his crush is a fangirl of this couple.. He should avoid this topic in the future.

 Chapter 345 - More & More

    Perhaps the people in this ce really fancied flowers a lot since when Shui Xian took Raelle to the hot springs, she found white and pink camellias nted around the courtyard. This hot spring was actually someone''s private property and wasn''t open to the public.

    However, it was really easy for Shui Xian to get ess to it since he had to have fun with his wife while looking at the lush bamboo forest behind the courtyard. The bamboo forest was lush and verdant. This ce gave off a serene and calming feeling. As always the weather here was unpredictable. When they were roaming around the flower garden, there was bright sunlight but now, thick clouds had taken root in the sky.

    But the way sunlight fell through the small spaces between the think clouds had its own charm. No matter how dusky the surrounding was, the flowers were as bright and fresh as ever. Moreover, the mist from the hot springs gave it a mysterious feel.

    Taking the lead, Shui Xian took off his bathrobe and jumped into the pool. Soon, he emerged from the water and gave Raelle a smirk who still stood at the side.

    "You''re not wearing anything," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian yfully sshed water towards Raelle making her robe get wet. "I thought before you seduce me into it, I should just take the initiative myself."

    Raelle nodded her head, "Good for you."

    Shui Xian was amused at how she didn''t even bother denying his words. It meant that she was really gonna make him take off everything. Seriously, didn''t they already had a bath together. Why was she still so interested in this?

    From her position and angle, Raelle had a good view right before her eyes. She could see Shui Xian''s clear white skin with smooth lines of muscles, those well-proportioned bones, it looked quite tempting actually. Drops of water were sliding down his handsome side profile to the side of his neck to his chest and then moving along the line to his abdomen. And yes, her eyes followed those drops of water still merged with the water.

    Who would resist such beautiful scenery?

    She definitely wouldn''t!

    Weren''t they gonna write a fantasy together? Then there had to be some heated scenes in this fantasy. How else would it be worthwhile?

    "Don''t make me drag you in here," Shui Xian''s voice rang out when she didn''t move even an inch all this while. Well, she was busy appreciating the beautiful scenery in front of her eyes. How would she remember to move in that situation?

    Since the courtyard was enclosed, Shui Xian wasn''t ashamed of getting out of the waterpletely naked. Why did it matter? The only person here was his wife and she clearly had seen everything. And she had already left her marks on every inch of his skin.

    Raelle touched the belt of her robe and untied it slowly. But as if she wanted to tease him, she didn''t take off her robe. Instead, she sat down on the edge of the pool and put her feet into the water. The untied robe was actually not letting Shui Xian see everything. He could see the valley between her breasts clearly but that''s it.

    Those snowy, perky mounts were still being veiled with that stupid robe on her body!

    Wrapping an arm around her waist, he really dragged her in. And even before Raelle could steady herself, his lips came to meet hers with a firm kiss. The water made the robe on her body stick to her skin but Shui Xian wouldn''t let it just stay there as he peeled it off her satiny skin with ease.

    With that kiss, he couldn''t stop his own body from rubbing against her soft and tender one. He had engulfed her within his arms, within his scent, and wanted to capture her within himself as well.

    His hand reached out to y with those red buds. Using the well-rounded nail of his finger, he purposely scratched the sensitive buds. Raelle held his arm while he continued to tease her. His hand even went down to tease the flower petals between her legs, making her whole body tremble with the sensation.

    "I don''t think I''m the one doing any seducing right now," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian chuckled right beside her ear as he said in a deep and husky voice, "You don''t have to. I''ve long fallen into this trap of yours. And now, I''m addicted."

    With that being said, he shared a long kiss with her. Long and deep kiss that held way too many feelings and emotions. It wasn''t overwhelming but it had a lingering effect. The kiss wasn''t aggressive but was really gentle.

    As Raelle held onto his neck, he made her straddle hisp.

    His fingers touched her flower petals again and slowly entered her core. But with those fingers, the hot water of the pool also slid in making Raelle squirm a little because of this strange sensation.

    "The... Water..." she spoke out.

    Shui Xian buried his face in her neck as he said, "It''s alright." He dropped lingering kisses along her neck filled with tenderness and lover.

    His mouth nibbled and sucked on her snowy peaks without any restraint while his fingers continued to y with her sensitive points. When he felt like it was the right time, he held his hardened member which had been standing proudly and painfully for a while now to enter her. He allowed her warm insides to engulf his hardnesspletely losing himself to the feeling of ecstasy.

    Usually, he would never be this unrestrained to have sex under the sky. But with Raelle around, his brain often short-circuited and he ended up doing something that was so not like him. He didn''t mind it though.

    "Baby, I love you," he said that again to her today as he bit her bottom lip lightly.

    "You already said that," she reminded him.

    "I won''t get tired of saying it," he smiled at her.. "So, you better get ready to hear it more and more."

 Chapter 346 - Just A Number

    Once upon a time, Shui Xian could be considered a simple boy in love. He was young, a bit shy about everything, and wholeheartedly believed insting love. He believed love was restrained. He believed love was innocent. And maybe that''s why when he first tasted the heartbreak, it broke everything within him.

    Because it was not just his heart breaking at that time. All of his beliefs were shattering right before his eyes. That innocent first love of his was gone and along with it, the young him also died down. It was only then he learned that love was the name of pain. It was painful, deceitful, and immoral. So, the fantasy of love that his mother built for him was buried along with his youth.

    However, the fire of love had ignited in his heart once again because of his wife. And this time around, it was a lot more passionate than he thought. He said the love he felt for her was peaceful. Oh, it was peaceful because it made him learn to be patient. And yet, now this peaceful love was diving down towards the unrestrained territory.

    He was as eager for Raelle as he was patient around her. It was such a conflicting feeling that even he was confused. For the first time in his life, he was having trouble understanding his own feelings. And it was all because of his unpredictable, straightforward, and slightly awkward wife. She might not know how to love but she was definitely teaching him how to do it all over again.

    He was just taking her lead. No, it''d be right to say that his heart had already taken her lead and now it wasn''t under his control at all. Now, every single cell of his body was eager for her touch. Every single heartbeat of his was eager for her presence.

    They say dry wood catches fire faster.

    Maybe he had been like a dried wood for so long that his heart was instantly set on fire by Raelle.

    Because of their wild time spent in ecstasy, both Raelle and Shui Xian had ate dinner before they went back home. After washing up, theyid down on the bed to sleep.

    Well, it was early for sleep but they both had spent their day wandering around and then the vigorous *cough* exercise. So, now they wereying down doing nothing. Shui Xian pulled Raelle and made hery right on his body.

    His fingers continued to y with her hair as he said, "Tomorrow, I''ll take you to a nearby vige."

    "To a vige?" inquired Raelle. "What for?"

    "Just to look around," he answered. "I believe you have never been to a vige before, so I just want you to experience that as well."

    "Okay," Raelle had no opinion regarding that. She really had never been to a vige. Never really felt the need to do so. Besides, she never spent her time aimlessly wandering around.

    "Baby, did you have a good time today?" asked Shui Xian.

    "It was good," she answered honestly.

    Shui Xian smiled in relief. While taking her around, he always had to wonder if she''d actually like this ce or not. But now it seemed like his worries were useless. And he wasn''t narcissistic enough to believe that she had a good time because he was right by her side.

    He suddenly sighed to himself, "We only have one more day here."

    "You want to stay longer?" asked Raelle. "Aren''t you tired after spending half a month here already?"

    Shui Xian looked sad as he said, "I was sick and tired of this ce when I was alone. But now... Now, you''re here with me. So, I think I can spend a while more here."

    "I don''t think we have to though," said Raelle. "Isn''t it that you just want to spend time with me? Then we can spend the time together it back at home as well."

    "Oh, that''s true," agreed Shui Xian when she said it like that.

    Shui Xian hugged her so tightly as if he was about to squish her. "I am so damn happy today."

    "Are you trying to stop my breath?" came Raelle muffled voice from his chest.

    "Oh, sorry!" Only then did Shui Xian realize that he seemed to have hugged her way too tightly. She couldn''t even breathe properly because of him. "By the way, shall we buy gifts for everyone?"

    "Gifts?" Raelle repeated his words. "Sure."

    Shui Xian pinched her nose, "Howe you''re always so eager to buy gifts for others?"

    "Have you ever noticed the smile on their faces when they receive the gift?" she asked in return. "Since I wanted to study the mystery behind that heartfelt smile, I bought a lot of gifts for everyone. And every time, they''d say, ''Why did you waste time on this? There was no need for gifts.'' However, even though they say that their eyes would always bend down in pure joy. Trust me, I have studied it long enough to say that everyone likes getting gifts."

    "What about you?" he asked her. "What does my wife like?"

    "I''m not a fan of gifts though," she answered truthfully. She only loved to give gifts. Receiving them was a different story.

    "You just said everyone likes getting gifts," reminded Shui Xian.

    "Well, then I''m not everyone," she stated.

    "Forget it," said Shui Xian. "Even if I''m gonna get a gift for you, why would I ask for your opinion. A gift is like a surprise. If one already knows what they are getting, what''s the fun in that?"

    "But I already have everything I need," she told him.

    "Babes, sometimes we buy things not because we need them," began Shui Xian seriously. "Sometimes we buy them just because we like them."

    "Isn''t that like wasting money if you buy something which you don''t even need?"

    "Who cares?" retorted Shui Xian. "At least, you and I can afford to waste a little bit of money.. It''s just a number."

 Chapter 347 - My Good Boy

    Hyson came back home in the evening. Originally he was nning to go straight back home from the hospital but who knew he won''t be able to do so. He received a call from his vocal instructor and he had to make a detour.

    So, when he got back home, he was really tired. He hadn''t been out for so long since the time he got into the ident. Suddenly, running here and there left him drained out.

    When he came back, he was told that his mother was in the kitchen. When he went there, he saw her kneading the dough. Walking up to her side, he hugged her and kissed her temple, "Mum, I''m home."

    Yue Yue scrunched up her face at the way he greeted her. He was really a kid around his mother.

    Since her hands were busy kneading the dough, she couldn''t speak to him with signnguage. So, she mouthed, "Where have you been?"

    Hyson could actually read her lips perfectly well. When he was a baby, even before he learned to speak, he learned to understand his own mother. She couldn''t teach him how to speak with her own voice and that''s why it took a while for Hyson to even learn how to speak. If it wasn''t for the kind neighbors they had in the vige, Yue Yue was afraid that something would have gone wrong with her son''s development because of her own shoring.

    However, he turned out to be just fine. He was smart so he learned to read lips quite early. In fact, he learned signnguageter. Usually, he''dmunicate with his mother using signnguage because she was resistant to the idea of mouthing words all the time. Perhaps, it hurt her even more that, when she opened her mouth to speak, no word came out.

    Hyson read her lips easily and smiled at her, "I met Zhai Yanjun."

    Yue Yue was stunned to hear that answer from him. So, she mouthed her second question, "Where did you meet him?"

    "At the hospital," answered Hyson honestly.

    Yue Yue stopped what she was doing and turned around to look at him with a worried look in her eyes, "Hospital? Why was he in a hospital? Did something happen?"

    Hyson shook his head at her, "Mum, don''t be so obvious. I might get jealous, you know." Yue Yue narrowed her eyes at him and he continued, "Fine, he was there to meet someone. Nothing happened to him. You can put your worry to rest."

    Yue Yue finally breathed a sigh of relief when she heard that went back to focus on the dough.

    Hyson noticed her actions and said, "He seems to be really interested in your past."

    Yue Yue stiffened at his words. She knew her son very well. He''d hardly hide anything from her. Unless it involved something that was rted to his own worries, he''d share everything with her. Even the smallest of details.

    "But I warned him not to be so curious," added Hyson. "Now, don''t get angry with me. I''m only trying to help you. I know you don''t want to share your past with anyone. Now, I don''t know if he is also part of that ''anyone'' or not. But if he is not, then the one to tell him the truth should be you."

    Yue Yue didn''t know what to say to this son of hers. He was really heartless sometimes. No wonder he was best friends with Raelle. They both didn''t care about the feelings of others when they spoke the truth. What he said was not wrong at all but it still made her feel a slight ache in her heart.

    Hyson noticed her expression and smiled to himself, "Seems like you''re ready to share your secrets with him." Yue Yue was startled by his words. He really read through her thoughts. "Anyway, it''s not my concern at all. I was just giving you a heads-up. I already knew you''d like to tell him your secrets yourself. Now, that you know what he wants to know, just prepare yourself."

    In fact, he was right. Yue Yue would not hide anything from Zhai Yanjun. If he wanted to know everything then she''d tell him. That''s how important he was to her. Zhai Yanjun was like her own son. She never even wanted to hide anything from Hyson then how could she hide it from Zhai Yanjun? She held that boy in her arms and loved him so much.

    Even though she didn''t get to be there in his growth, he was still that boy whom she dearly loved. Perhaps, the separation had only made her feel more profound.

    And Hyson was all too well familiar with his mother so it wasn''t difficult for him to understand what his mother''s decision would be. That''s why he had suggested Zhai Yanjun ask Yue Yue if he really wanted to know something.

    Yue Yue looked at her son helplessly, "Why are you like this?"

    Hyson shrugged his shoulders as he said, "I also wonder why I am so great?"

    Yue Yue elbowed him for talking nonsense but he didn''t even evade it. He didn''t mind a little bit of beating.

    He pressed on her shoulders with his arms and added, "Now, stop worrying about me. I really won''t fight with your favorite Zhai Yanjun. I know I''ve lost my position in your heart but mum, you''d always be the number one for me."

    Yue Yue rolled her eyes at his dramatic act.

    Hysonughed at her reaction and turned serious as he added, "Okay, in all seriousness, I really won''t fight with him. You can be at ease. No matter how he is involved in your past, if he didn''t do anything to hurt you, I won''t hurt him either."

    Yue Yue smiled at him lovingly and mouthed, "My good boy!"

    "That I sure am," he said smugly making Yue Yueugh silently at her cheeky son.

 Chapter 348 - No Harm

    "Fai, when did youe back?"

    Hyson looked back to see Mu Chenyan and gave her a big smile, "I just came back."

    "Then what are you doing in the kitchen? It''s not a ce for you," Mu Chenyan rushed him out of there. "If you want to eat something just tell me. Don''t wander around in the kitchen."

    "I just went to see mum there," he told her.

    "Oh..." Mu Chenyan sat down with him and asked, "What took you so long? Did you stay at the hospital for so long?"

    Hyson shook his head, "No, my vocal coach asked me to see him and when I went over, I was caught by my dance teacher. He scolded me for an hour."

    Mu Chenyan scowled when she heard that, "Who got the guts to scold our family''s son?"

    Hyson chuckled at her reaction, "Yanyan, I deserved that scolding actually. I didn''t practice in over a month and the ident made my body stiff as well. I''m already the worst one in the group when ites to dancing, now, I''ve gotten even worse than before."

    Mu Chenyan patted his head dotingly, "It''s okay. Don''t take it to heart. You have an amazing voice. So what if the dancing is a bitcking? We can''t be good at everything."

    "When you say it like that, I even lose the will to improve," said Hyson.

    Mu Chenyanughed at him. "Go and freshen up. The dinner is almost done."

    "Roger that, boss!"

    Mu Chenyan tsked and shook her head, "Silly boy!"

    As he was about to leave, he thought about Xiang Weimin and contemted whether to tell Mu Chenyan about this or not. But then he chose to just shut his mouth. He''d let Raelle know first.

    Later when Hyson came down for dinner, he was whistling happily. He skipped around his way to the dining table and greeted Grandfather Xiang, "Good evening, Opa! How was your day?"

    "Quite boring without you," stated Grandfather Xiang.

    Hyson proudly flicked his hair saying, "I''m that color that everyone needs in life. Ah! I feel special."

    Grandfather Xiangughed at his antics and said, "You are already our special kid."

    Hyson gave him a toothy grin and sat down with him.

    "Why do you look so excited though?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "I am very excited," said Hyson. "Two people have gone on a date today. I am waiting for updates excitedly."

    "Waiting for updates or gossips?" asked Mu Chenyan rhetorically.

    Hyson could only grin in reply.

    Grandfather Xiang rubbed his head saying, "Fai, this is your age to go on dates yourself. Why are you excited about other''s dates?"

    "Because I''m a person who is happier when others are happy," stated Hyson. "That''s how selfless I am."

    "Pfft!" Mu Chenyan couldn''t stop herself while Yue Yue also covered her mouth tough at her son''s words. This selfless guy was certainly one in a million!

    "Opa, look!" Hysonined as he pointed at the twodies. "They areughing at me."

    "Whoeverughed at our family''s Fai is gonna get punished," stated Grandfather Xiang in his authoritative voice.

    Both thedies went quiet instantly. After all, when Grandfather Xiang said there''d be punishment, they''d be punished. Who cared whether they were forty years old or not?

    Hyson was very content to see that no one wasughing at him anymore. Then he turned to Grandfather Xiang and told him, "Also, Opa, I''m just a little kid. How can I go on a date at this age? It''s really not my cup of tea."

    Everyone in this room understood what he meant by those words. He wasn''t even interested in any girls, how could he go on a date with any girl?

    "By the way, who went on a date today?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "Ellie and Cloe," answered Hyson.

    Everyone chose to ignore Raelle for a moment.

    "Cloe went on a date? With who?"

    "It''s a blind date," said Hyson. "Her friend Soren asked her to go on a blind date with his brother-inw. Since Soren would not choose a bad person for his friend, I''m wondering how this blind date went. Hopefully, she didn''t try to pull any stunts like Ellie."

    "Well, she has spent way too long with our Elle," said Mu Chenyan. "I wouldn''t be surprised if she really pulled a stunt."

    Hyson couldn''t deny that. Even he believed that Raelle rubbed off on him. How could Cloe escape? But then again, it also meant that Cloe was a lot more rational than ever. So, she''d be smart enough to take this date seriously.

    "Speaking of dates," began Hyson. "Yanyan, why don''t I find one for you?"

    Mu Chenyan almost choked on her food. "Why don''t you give the same suggestion to your mother?"

    Hyson frowned at that, "You think I don''t want to?" He looked at his mother who didn''t even bother lifting her eyes and went on, "She is still stuck on that unrequited love of hers. I really wonder what kind of a person he was that mum is still so hung up on him."

    Mu Chenyan had nothing to say about that. She also wondered what kind of a person that man was to make Yue love him so deeply.

    Clearing her throat, she said, "Anyway, dating is a big no-no for me!"

    Hyson tsked at her, "And here I am living with the hope of eating your wedding candy one day."

    Mu Chenyan red at him, "Don''t pit me like that!"

    Hysonughed out at that and sighed out, "Fine, I won''t say it again. But you should think about it."

    "I''ve already spent half of my life alone, what makes you think I need a partner for the other half of my life?"

    "You don''t need one doesn''t mean there is any harm in having someone by your side." He spoke very clearly and sincerely.

    "Eat your meal," said Mu Chenyan and went back to eating again.. She didn''t want to think about his words at all.

 Chapter 349 - We Were On A Date

    In fact, more than excitement, Hyson was curious to know how Raelle and Cloe''s dates went. He knew they both went onpletely different kinds of dates but he was still looking forward to some details.

    So, at night when heid on his bed, he took his phone and directly made a new group chat.

    At the same time, both Raelle and Cloe received a notification.

    <

    >

    <

    >

    And then looking at their in boring disy names, he decided to change them.

    <

    >

    <

    >

    Raelle looked at the disy name of the group chat, [We were on a date], and really wanted to shake Hyson to know what nonsense his brain was always cooking? Was that a name for the group? Howe everything he did never made any sense and yet it somehow worked?

    Prince Hyson: [Yoho, pretty girls! What''s up?]

    Hell''s Belle: [Are you looking for trouble?]

    Prince Hyson: [No, I''m creating some trouble here. hehe]

    Top Fan: [Umm... Why are we in this group exactly?]

    Hell''s Belle: [Didn''t you see the group name? Use your brain, Cloe! He is asking you to share the details of your date!]

    Cloe felt offended when her intelligence was questioned like this. But the one who questioned was Raelle, so she''d just let it go. It''s not she could win from her boss.

    Top Fan: [I''m a normal person, Chief. My brain capacity isn''t like yours.]

    Hell''s Belle: [There is no need for ttering.]

    Prince Hyson: [Girls, focus! Focus here! I want details!]

    Hell''s Belle: [But why?]

    Prince Hyson: [For research purposes. *serious face*]

    Top Fan: [I can help with the research.]

    Hell''s Belle: [He is baiting you, Cloe.]

    Top Fan: [Oh...]

    Prince Hyson: [Ellie, stop ruining my fun or I''m gonna kick you out of the group.]

    Hell''s Belle: [And do you think I feel threatened by that?]

    Hell''s Belle: [Anyway, since you''re so curious I''ll just let you know.]

    Hell''s Belle: [[photo][photo][photo][photo]]

    Seeing the photos that were sent in the group, Hyson was quite satisfied. It seemed his best friend listened to him well and actually clicked photos today. What a rare day!

    He opened the photo where Shui Xian had put a flower crown on Raelle''s head and the other one where Shui Xian was kneeling before Raelle as he held her hand and looked up at her with loving eyes.

    These photos were actually sneaked shot by Raelle''s security team member, Hailey who couldn''t help clicking it since the scene looked so pretty. And she even diligently sent these photos to Raelle.

    Since Raelle liked quite a few pictures, she saved them all.

    Top Fan: [That looks so romantic!]

    Top Fan: [Master Xian is Master Xian.]

    Top Fan: [By the way, is he proposing to you?]

    Prince Hyson: [They are already married, Cloe.]

    Top Fan: [And who said married people can''t propose.]

    Prince Hyson: [So, is he proposing?]

    Hell''s Belle: [He said he loves me.]

    Both Cloe and Hyson had their mouth wide opened when they read that. Cloe felt like she was sitting in the front row. And she was getting exclusive content! Nothing can be more exciting than this!!! Not even her romantic movie!

    Prince Hyson: [And here I thought he''d be able to resist your temptation.]

    Prince Hyson: [Xian Ge really didn''t live up to my expectations.]

    Top Fan: [Hyson, are you looking for a beating? Master Xian is awesome! I''m a fan!]

    Prince Hyson: [And I thought you''re my fan. *sad face*]

    <

    >

    I climbed over the wall: [Who said I can''t have two idols?]

    Prince Hyson: [You broke my trust, Cloe.]

    Hell''s Belle: [Stop the drama already.]

    Prince Hyson: [Ellie, you don''t understand. You really don''t understand my pain.]

    Hell''s Belle: [And I don''t want to understand either.]

    Prince Hyson: [Heartless!]

    Prince Hyson: [Moving on, Cloe, how did it go?]

    I climbed over the wall: [It was strangely good actually.]

    Prince Hyson: [Really? Tell me more.]

    I climbed over the wall: [He was so shocked to see me there. And he was adorably clumsy as well. Well, at least, his clumsiness made me feel at ease.]

    Prince Hyson: [Go on, I''m listening.]

    Hell''s Belle: [We aren''t using voice chat, how can you listen to her?]

    Prince Hyson: [Is that the focus here?]

    Hell''s Belle: [Isn''t it?]

    Prince Hyson: [Ellie, stay quiet for a minute!]

    Prince Hyson: [Cloe, you continue!]

    I climbed over the wall: [So, we had a meal together and talked about a lot of things. We share a lot of interests as well. He was strangely amodating. He was very careful and attentive.]

    Prince Hyson: [Let''s sum it up. You guys are meeting again?]

    I climbed over the wall: [Most probably.]

    Hell''s Belle: [We conclude that this blind date was a sess. Congrattions, yer Cloe!]

    Cloe pursed her lips when she read that message from Raelle.

    I climbed over the wall: [Thanks, Chief! I should give some credit to you as well.]

    Hell''s Belle: [I''ll take whatever credit you''re giving.]

    Cloe chuckled to herself.

    I climbed over the wall: [Thanks for the gorgeous outfit.]

    Hell''s Belle''s: [It wasn''t something amazing though.]

    I climbed over the wall: [But it was perfect for a first date.]

    Prince Hyson: [I also want some credit here.]

    I climbed over the wall: [Yes, yes, the credit belongs to my idol as well. Thanks for cheering me up so much!]

    Prince Hyson: [Did you see that, Ellie? I''m also quite useful.]

    Hell''s Belle: [Good for you!]

    Hell''s Belle: [Now, scram already!]

    Hyson read thatst text and gritted his teeth. This girl really loved to shush him away.

    I climbed over the wall: [Good night, Chief! Good night, my idol!]

    Prince Hyson: [Good night, pretty girls!]

    Raelle obviously didn''t bother to text again. This much was already her limit. She already broke her rule of not texting since Hyson had added her to the group. Besides, she already tried texting with her husband so now, it wasn''t as troublesome as before.

    [1] Climbing over the wall is a metaphor to describe cheating

 Chapter 350 - Buying Gifts

    As he had saidst night, Shui Xian took Raelle to the vige nearby. The vige was called Misty Rock vige. There wasn''t anything particrly special about this vige. It was just like any other vige but it was actually quite developed now.

    But Shui Xian still wanted to show Raelle the world she had never seen before. So, he had chosen to make a visit to this ce. After all, it was obvious that someone like Raelle who grew up abroad had never seen a vige or how the vige people lived.

    As a matter of fact, Hyson also grew up in a vige until the age of eight. But Raelle met him when he came to the city and because of that, she had never been able to see the ce Hyson grew up in. Hyson had no attachment to that ce as well so he never went back there.

    Moving on to the present, with their hands wrapped around each other snuggly, both husband and wife were walking through the streets of the vige. It was a market street and one could find all kinds of stalls lined up on both sides. The streets were bustling with people and it looked like a lively scene.

    "What''s that?"

    Shui Xian followed the line of her sight to see what she was pointing at. He saw that what caught her eye was the stall that was surrounded by children. Some kids were dragging their parents over, throwing tantrums to make them buy the snack.

    The sweet and sour snack of candied fruits was on bamboo skewers, looked so shiny and bright red. It was none other than everyone''s childhood favorite snack, tanghulu.[1]

    "Wife, you have never eaten tanghulu before?" asked Shui Xian in surprise. "That''s my favorite childhood snack." As if remembering something, he went on, "Oh, right. You grew up abroad so you must have never seen it before. Look at me, how can I forget that?" He looked at Raelle and inquired, "Do you want to try it? It''s quite sweet and sour."

    "I''ll try," said Raelle as she still looked at that stall.

    Shui Xian happily went over to get two tanghulu skewers and offered one to her. Raelle took a bite with a crunch sound and seeing her eat it, Shui Xian''s eyes softened before he started eating as well and moved further ahead.

    The stalls were selling all kinds of trinkets and street food. Raelle stopped at a stall and picked up an elegant-looking wooden hairpin. It was in ck color and had a slight wavy design which gave it a different feel. The hollow flower carving at the end was exquisitely done.

    The stall belonged to an old woman who gave a gentle smile when she looked at Raelle and said, "Youngdy, you have an eye for treasure. This piece is really worthy of your beauty."

    Raelle extended it towards her and said, "I want it."

    The stall owner''s smile grew bigger when she heard it and immediately packed it up for her.

    "Wifey, you don''t wear such hair ornaments," said Shui Xian in confusion. He had never seen her using any ornaments of such kind.

    "That''s for Yue," she answered. "She likes to wear hairpins. Although it''s made of wood, it looks good. Besides, if I offered her one made of jade, she won''t take it."

    Shui Xian nodded his head in understanding and pulled out his wallet to pay.

    "I''ll pay for it," said Raelle.

    "Do you have cash?" asked Shui Xian.

    Raelle looked down since she really didn''t have any cash on her as always. Shui Xian chuckled at her response. He paid for it without saying anything else and said thanks to the stall owner before taking his wife ahead.

    They passed by all sorts of things but strangely enough, Raelle''s eyes would only go to things that she wanted to buy for others. For instance, now she wanted to buy that pair of silver moon-carved tassel earrings for Mu Chenyan. But since she seemed to like it how could he refuse?

    She even ended up finding a unique kind of stone that she wanted to take for B¨¤. And since she couldn''t seem to find anything for Grandfather Xiang, Shui Xian took her to an inconspicuous shop where he helped her pick a pair of jade Pixiu figures. Both were very beautiful with deep colors.

    Honestly speaking, Raelle didn''t know the meaning behind this gift so Shui Xian exined it to her, "Pixiu was a mythical beast. It had a dragon''s head, lion''s body with wings, hooves, and tail just as it''s carved beautifully here. It brings luck and wards off evil. Isn''t it the best gift for Opa?"

    And only when he said it like that did Raelle agree that it was indeed a good gift even though she didn''t believe in such things.

    Later, Shui Xian bought a roasted duck and asked her to eat it.

    Raelle looked at the roasted duck and then at him, "It''s unhygienic."

    "Ayah! Wifey, it doesn''t matter," was Shui Xian''s response. "Perhaps there are some germs on it but so what? If we won''t eat a bit of germ how will we know whether our stomach is strong enough to fight these germs or not?"

    He really made no sense but he didn''t care. He brought a piece of duck meat before her lips and as he had expected Raelle opened her mouth to eat it. He smiled to himself. He was really figuring her out well by now. She would never disrespect food. So, once you bring it to her mouth, she''ll eat it. She never disappoints.

    Shui Xian was happy with his own spections bing true. It meant his observation wasn''t that useless. Hyson was right, he could figure his wife out if he only paid a little extra attention to her.

    [1] tanghulu: If any of you don''t know it, this is a traditional northern Chinese snack made of fruits that are sugar dipped which makes them look so glossy and appetizing.. It''s also known as Chinese hawthorn.

 Chapter 351 - Wedding

    "What should we buy for Fai?" asked Shui Xian.

    "Can we take this roasted duck?" asked Raelle in return.

    Shui Xian was stunned by her words. He couldn''t tell whether she was serious or was she kidding right now? It was really hard to tell with that poker face of hers.

    "You want to give him roasted duck?" he asked her carefully.

    "That''s something he''d be most interested in," answered Raelle.

    Shui Xian suddenly had a sh of enlightenment. That''s true. Hyson would be more interested in a delicacy. And the roasted duck of here was truly one of a kind. He knew Hyson would love it. But they couldn''t possibly take it.

    "Well, we can''t take it with us," said Shui Xian in a small voice as he was thinking about something. "How about I try to find out the recipe of it and then I''ll make it for Fai?"

    "Why to go through that much trouble?" was Raelle response. "We can just find something else for him. It''s not like Prince Hyson is that difficult to please."

    Shui Xianughed out, "Then if it''s for Prince Hyson, I suggest a gold crown."

    "So that he really starts believing himself to be a Prince?"

    Shui Xian couldn''t help but say, "Isn''t he already the little Prince of the family?"

    "Shh..." Raelle acted all mysterious as she whispered, "That''s an open secret. It doesn''t mean we''ll let him believe himself to be a real Prince."

    Shui Xian thought about Hyson who actually gave of a princely feeling even without trying and didn''t know what to say.

    Suddenly, they heard the sound of firecrackers from nearby and Raelle put her hands up to cover her ears. Shui Xian noticed her movement and asked, "Are you ufortable?"

    Raelle looked over to see the scene before her eyes and shook her eyes, "It''s okay. I am just not used to loud noises."

    The scene right before her was quite bright and loud. There was a big procession passing in front of them. They were ying drums and gongs, using firecrackers, and there was even a lion dance troupe. It was quite a new scene for Raelle.

    The man in the lead was dressed in gold and red robes with a little kid walking by his side.

    "What''s going on?" asked Raelle.

    "Oh, the groom is going to pick up his bride," answered Shui Xian.

    Raelle didn''t understand his meaning, "What does that mean?"

    "It''s a tradition," said Shui Xian. "There is a long process in these traditional weddings. It has a lot of symbolism as well. Now, you see that kid beside the groom."

    "The guy in red and gold robe is the groom?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "Yes, he is. In traditional weddings, that''s how people dress up. Even the robes have symbolism. Let''s take the golden and red colors for instance. The golden color represents wealth while red is auspicious. Red also represents luck, honor, and love. These two are actually the dominant colors in weddings." He took a pause to see that she was listening carefully as if trying to gather some more information so he happily went on, "As I was saying, the kid walking beside the groom in this procession symbolizes fertility. This whole journey to pick the bride from her home is quite lively actually."

    "I can tell," said Raelle. She could clearly see how lively it was. "What happens after this?"

    Seeing her interest in this, Shui Xian acted like a knowledgable fellow and exined everything clearly, "When the groom reaches the bride''s home, there it won''t be so easy to pick up the bride."

    "Why?"

    "He will have to pass a test," said Shui Xian. "The bride''s sisters, cousins, or friends will tease the groom. Ask him to tell something about the bride or make him do some silly stuff. Actually, I went to a wedding where the groom was asked to eat the spiciest food. The poor guy cried so hard after that." Shui Xianughed at the memory and went on, "Only when he passes the test can he take the bride with him. But he''ll also have to offer red envelopes to get the entry."

    "Then the wedding is done?"

    "It only just begun, darling," Shui Xian tapped her nose. "After that, they have to offer tea, pay respects, then they will exchange vows. Then there is the wedding banquet."

    "Are they gonna continue till night?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "It usually does take that long. But now, people don''t go through all these traditions." He sighed out, "A lot of processes have been omitted or shortened. Only a few would go through these detailed marriages now."

    He held her hand and looked at her, "I also want to hold a wedding. Will youe?"

    "To do what?"

    "To be my wife!"

    Raelle gazed into his eyes, "We are already married. I am already your wife."

    "That''s on paper," he shot back. "I want to hold a ceremony. In fact, looking at this traditional wedding, I think you''d look gorgeous in a red wedding dress." He was grinning to himself when he imagined the whole scene.

    "I thought you weren''t interested in these things," said Raelle.

    "I was not," he agreed. "But now, I am. I want to tell the whole world that I have a beautiful wife. I want to live in the moment. I want to love at this moment. So, why not?"

    "You really want it?" she asked again for confirmation.

    "I do," he said acting pitifully.

    Raelle was quiet for a minute before she said, "Give me a little bit of time. I have a big project in the process. Once it''spleted, I''ll give you what you want."

    "Really?" Shui Xian was surprised that she agreed so easily. He was momentarily lost.

    He thought she''d at most agree with reception but she actually agreed for the wedding? Was he dreaming? He really thought he was dreaming right now.

 Chapter 352 - Wherever, Whenever

    "I wonder why is it names ''Misty Rock Vige''?"

    Shui Xian stared dumbly as he answered, "I don''t know."

    "You don''t know?" asked Raelle.

    "I really don''t," he said. "Maybe they liked the name?"

    "Oh..."

    Shui Xian noticed her poker face and looked right into her eyes clearly. "Baby, why do I think you''re looking at me with scornful eyes?"

    "Am I?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head certainly, "You really are." He moved closer to her to ask, "Myck of knowledge is so scornful? But you already knew that I am not as knowledgeable as you even before we married. Now, you''re stuck with a husband who is dumb. Deal with it."

    "I didn''t say you''re dumb," stated Raelle. "I just asked you because you brought me specifically here. I thought you''d know more about this ce."

    "I brought you here because of the gifts you bought here," answered Shui Xian. "I did want to show you a vige but also, I wanted to show you those small trinkets that are quite unique to this ce. Those jade pixiu figures can be found anywhere. But it''s not easy to find such delicate craftsmanship. The people of this vige are really good at carving. They inherited the talent from their ancestors which brings another meaning to this ce."

    "Didn''t you tell me there is nothing special about this ce?"

    "Well, there really isn''t. Only the people are special but people are special everywhere."

    "You know how to talk."

    "Thanks for thepliment!"

    In the end, what Raelle bought for Hyson were ss marbles. Yes, those ss marbles that children y with. That''s what caught her attention and that''s exactly what she wanted to offer her best friend. Well, they looked unique, colorful, pretty. She didn''t think anything was wrong with this gift.

    And the way she carefully picked out each piece really made Shui Xian raise his brows at her.

    "Are you sure that''s what you want to give him?"

    "I''m sure," answered Raelle. "He''ll like it. Trust me."

    Shui Xian couldn''t say anything when she put it like that and nodded his head, "Okay, then."

    Raelle spent an hour sitting under a tree just watching the farmers working in the fields. She even got to see a live vegetable market. Everything here was so normal and yet it was new to her. Even if she read about the lives of farmers, it was different from watching it with her own eyes.

    She watched how a middle-aged man was trying to catch his rooster who made him run all over the field. It was quite a funny scene actually.

    "They live such a simple life," she said to Shui Xian.

    Shui Xianid down on the grass and put his head on her thigh as he hummed in reply. "I believe simple is peaceful. At least, they don''t have as many worries as us. And their lives aren''t thatplicated either."

    "You like it here?" she asked him.

    Shui Xian closed his eyes as he answered, "I like peaceful ces. How can I not like it here? Maybe one day, when I retire, I''ll buy a house in such a calming ce. I''ll raise chickens and ducks. I''ll also nt vegetables in my yard to get fresh ingredients."

    "You have a detailed n, eh?"

    "Well, there is no harm in thinking about it. One should always have a n," said Shui Xian. He opened his eyes and geld her gaze saying, "Baby, we will go fishing together. Spend our days leisurely."

    "Oh, I''m also a part of this detailed n?"

    "What else?" he suddenly turned serious. "You''re a part of my life. Obviously, all my ns have to involve you. What''s the fun of living in such a peaceful ce all alone?"

    "You know I have never done future nning," stated Raelle. "But hearing you put it like that, I don''t think I mind such a future."

    Shui Xian''s lips curled wide when he heard her say that and he happilyughed, "As long as you agree."

    "Let''s go back now," suggested Raelle.

    "Wait for a minute," said Shui Xian. "Let me take a nap here. It''s reallyfortable."

    Raelle couldn''t move him so she let him be. Seeing how he really nned to take a nap, she didn''t disturb him either. She leaned her back against the tree trunk and continued to observe the people around her.

    Raelle had nothing on her mind except for the fact that she was really bing used to Shui Xian''s presence now. No, it''d be right to say that he had already be a part of her life. A part that she couldn''t ignore and neither did she want to ignore.

    It''s strange but she actually agreed with whatever he wanted so easily these days. It didn''t matter whether it was something she liked or not, she actually agreed for his sake. Just because whenever he heard her yes, his eyes would sparkle like the night sky. And his lips would make a beautiful arc. As she had thought before, he was the most handsome whenever he smiled.

    And recently she learned that this special smile was actually just for her. He''d not show this smile to anyone else. It was reserved for whenever she was around. She didn''t know why was that but she liked the idea of it.

    Raelle continued to look at his sleeping face. Even though she always woke up before him in the morning, it was still not her habit to look at his sleeping face carefully. Now, that she did, he looked... handsome. Well, he was always handsome but right now, one could find peacefulness around him. His expressions were rxed and he seemed content.

    She lifted her finger and traced his eyebrows. Then she tapped his nose lightly. She did once, she did twice and she actually ended up doing it thrice as well! There was no meaning to it, she just did it because she felt like doing it. After that, her finger lingered on the edge of his lips.

    Suddenly, her finger was enveloped by a wet and warm sensation as Shui Xian had wrapped his lips around her naughty finger.

    "I thought you''re sleeping?"

    Shui Xian lightly nibbled on her finger before letting her go and said, "I was sleeping until you started acting sneaky."

    "I don''t have to act sneaky," she defended herself. She poked his cheek saying, "You''re my husband, I can legally touch you wherever I want, whenever I want!"

 Chapter 353 - Cost Of Absence

    Right aftering back, Raelle went straight to the office. Right from the airport, she went to her office. It was an hour early but she had things to do. After all, she left so suddenly to y around. Since she came an hour early, there weren''t many people who saw her entering her office.

    However, the security did and they immediately informed Cloe that the President was back. Cloe was still dawdling around at home when she received the call and jumped up. She really didn''t know what to do with her boss. She always did her own way.

    Cloe hurriedly dressed up and rushed out to reach the office. Her apartment wasn''t that far from the office building so she arrived soon.

    "Morning, Chief!"

    "You''re early," Raelle pointed out without moving her eyes away from the documents in her hands.

    "You are as well," Cloe couldn''t help but say. And there was a bit of bitterness in her tone as well. She could stillze around for another half an hour but because Raelle came early, she had toe as well. She really wasn''t having it easy.

    "Since we are both here, let''s get to work now," said Raelle.

    Cloe agreed with that and clearly exined the things that happened in Raelle''s absence. Whether something was worthy of her attention or not, Cloe stated it all truthfully. It had be a habit now to tell Raelle every single detail no matter how minute it was. Because Raelle could often find a lot from these tiny details.

    Cloe really admired this talent of hers.

    Soon, she brought out a pile of files and ced it on Raelle''s desk saying, "I have more. I''ll be right back." With that, she made another trip to get another pile of files for Raelle to look through.

    She wasn''t purposely making it difficult for Raelle at all. It was just that her boss'' usual work efficiency was so high that even she had never seen such huge piles of files gathered on her desk. But now that she went missing for just one and a half-day, a lot of things piled up.

    It really showed how much work Raelle usually puts upon herself.

    She was still briefing when Raelle lifted her hand to stop her and put the file in her hand in front of her, "I have been gone for one day and you all arezy? How can the secretarial department even put this file on my desk with so many mistakes?"

    Cloe''s heart thudded and she cursed those gossip mongers who only paid attention to the fact that their boss was on a rare vacation but really forgot that this boss was vicious when it came to tardiness!

    She took the file and said, "I''ll deal with this." As she stood aside hugging the file against her chest while Raelle threw another one on the desk. And then another and another. With each file, Cloe could see her initial good mood flying away.

    She should have known today wasn''t gonna be a good day when she received the call that their boss was early at work. Urgh! She hates these blind people who made such stupid mistakes in these files. She really felt like strangling someone right now.

    Everyone in their office knew that the President would never go easy on people for making small mistakes. Her eyes were like a microscope, she could find your tiniest mistakes to remind you how tiny your brain is!

    After Cloe collected all the files that were ''faulty'' she looked at Raelel and said, "Chief, I thought you''d be in a good mood after this holiday. Didn''t you have a good time with your husband?"

    Raelle raised her eyes and gave her a nk look, "For spending time with my husband, I should allow you all to ruin my business? I am not okay with this cost!"

    Cloe smiled bitterly at her luck and walked out to find the people who delivered these files to her. She should have looked through it all herself. But she had been taking care of the business that was Raelle''s job, so she didn''t get the chance to do so.

    For the next four hours, every single department head had been criticized for not handling their staff well. It made Cloe feel good that she wasn''t the only sufferer around here, there were people here to share her misery. And apparently, she got out of it lightly.

    But she really wondered what kind of a magical presence was of Raelle Xiang. When she was in office, no one dared to make such mistakes but once she was gone for one day, they really got so rxed? It really seems mind-boggling to her.

    "My luck is doomed!" she bumped her head against the wall again and again.

    Suddenly, a hand held her forehead and stopped her from continuing. Cloe looked up in surprise and her eyes brightened when she saw the person before her. It was truly like seeing her angel!

    "Angel, you''re here!"

    Hyson took back his hand but Cloe held his hand not letting him go. He really found this Cloe to be quite frightening. He should have just walked to Raelle''s office directly.

    "Not an angel," said Hyson softly.

    Cloe shook her head as she looked like she was about to cry, "You don''t know. Today, you''ve been sent as my salvation. If I had to spend the rest of the day under Chief''s frighteningly cold pressure, I''d have been suffocated. Thanks foring to my rescue!"

    Hyson got the main point from her words, "Ellie is giving off scary vibes?"

    Cloe nodded her head like a hen pecking on grains.

    "It''s been a while for me to see her like this," told Cloe honestly. "I thought she''d be basking in love and glowing with love but she giving off an eerie feeling instead."

    Hyson patted her shoulders, "Calm down. She isn''t just anyone. Love or hate, it''s all the same to her. But her work isn''t the same. She had put her life into building this empire.. Obviously, she can''t let just anyone shake it."

 Chapter 354 - Hello

    Only when Hyson said it like that did Cloe also gathered herself. It was true. She had seen Raelle putting her whole life into her business. How could she not care when people made such simple mistakes? It would frustrate anyone. She wasn''t acting out of the ordinary at all.

    Hyson walked inside the office and habitually, took off his jacket and threw it on her head. And as always, Raelle calmly pulled his jacket down and stood up to hang it on a coat hanger. Hyson smiled to himself when he saw her doing that.

    She was about to sit back to work when he dragged her to the sitting area and made her sit down. Pouring her a ss of water, he offered it to her. She silently took it and drank it.

    And then they just sat there in silence. Raelle didn''t try to get back to work and Hyson didn''t rush to start a conversation with her.

    "What brings you here?" In the end, it was Raelle who spoke up first and broke this silence between them.

    Hyson leaned back on the couchnguidly as he told her, "I came to tell you that I''m mad at you."

    Raelle put the ss of water down and faced him, "Is this how people get mad at others?"

    "I don''t know," he answered. "But this is how I get mad at you."

    "Do peoplee to announce when they are mad at others as well?"

    Hyson narrowed his eyes at her, "If I don''te to announce, how will you know it? Wouldn''t I be taking a loss then?"

    "Then why are you mad at me?" asked Raelle patiently waiting for him.

    "Don''t you even know that?" he stared at her. "But then again, I shouldn''t expect that from you!"

    "Are you gonna tell or not?"

    "I''m telling," said Hyson. "Of course, I am mad because you didn''t meet me before leaving. Didn''t tell me where you''re going. But I still let it go. However, now that you got back, you actually preferred getting to work than going home to see whether I am alive or dead!"

    "Aren''t you right in front of alive and kicking?"

    "So, what do you want? Should I lie down dead?"

    "I did not say that," stated Raelle. "I was in a hurry to get to work. I received an email from the HQ that''s why I had to rush to work to deal with something urgently. Who knew that I''d get to see another mess here waiting for me?"

    "No excuse is epted today," said Hyson haughtily. "Unless you give me my gift."

    "Who said I brought you a gift?" asked Raelle.

    Hyson humphed at her, "As if I don''t know you. Whenever you go to a new ce, you''d always bring souvenirs for us. Where is my souvenir this time?"

    "What if I say, this time is an exception?"

    Hyson''s expressions changed, "Why is this time an exception? What changed?"

    "Now, I''m married," reminded Raelle.

    His expressions took another dip. "No wonder people say a married daughter is like spilled water. You''re nothing like before. You''ve forgotten everything we shared now that you''re married. Aren''t you ashamed of yourself?"

    "I really am not ashamed of myself," was her response.

    Hyson''s mouth twitched at her response, "Shouldn''t you be saying something else to me?"

    "For instance?"

    "For instance, you can start with a hello!" he spoke with sarcasm.

    "Hello!" said Raelle because obviously she would not notice or care about his sarcasm.

    As a matter of fact, even Hyson knew she won''t get it so when she said that hello, he burst outughing at her.

    "Feeling better?" he asked her.

    "What do you think?" she retorted.

    "I think you''re good now," stated Hyson certainly.

    "So, why don''t you tell me the real reason for being here?" asked Raelle.

    Hyson smiled at her and told her honestly, "I actually came on a whim. I have to get to mypany for a meeting with the new higher-ups to discuss the future of our group. But I came early so I decided to check up on you on my way since I haven''t seen you in days."

    "Let me know if the new management makes things difficult for you," said Raelle.

    Hyson shook his head, "You think I can''t handle it?"

    "No, as always I''m just reminding you that you don''t have to stubbornly handle it. You just have to know that you have someone here for you."

    "I always know that," although he said that, his heart was warmed by her words.

    It was so not in vain to treat her the best in his life.

    "By the way, did you have a good time?"

    "I believe so," was her answer.

    But this answer was enough for Hyson who interpreted her words as ''I had a st.'' He was really a good interpreter when it came to his best friend. No one can understand her words as he does.

    "I almost forgot to tell you, I met Lieutenant Colonel Xiang Weimin the other day at the hospital," informed Hyson and then went to give her the details of everything. He even mentioned Zhai Yanjun''s presence and how they seem close to each other.

    "Why are you telling me this?" asked Raelle. "You''re not expecting me to make a visit to him, are you?"

    "Nah! I just couldn''t hide it from you so I came clean," was Hyson''s nonchnt reply. "However, I did promise to go over to see him again."

    "It''s your life, you don''t have to tell me what you do with it."

    Hyson smiled at that, "I''m gonna repeat myself. He really reminds me of you."

    Raelle didn''t know how to respond to that. And neither could she understand why he thought Xiang Weimin was like her. But she didn''t know him so she couldn''t possibly know either. And neither did she wish to know for now. Their lives werepletely different from hers.. There was no need to tie them together.

 Chapter 355 - Glad You Like It

    Whether Raelle understood Hyson''s meaning or not, she understood one thing from his statement though. Hyson was willing to go back to see Xiang Weimin because he reminded Hyson of Raelle.

    Raelle already knew Hyson was the person who people would call someone with a golden heart. He was kind and considerate. His childhood bitterness didn''t make him a bitter person. Instead, it turned him into a sweet person. Perhaps it was his way of challenging life to show that no matter how many stones were thrown at him, he could still stand tall.

    Since Hyson figured out that Xiang Weimin showed signs of depression, he couldn''t bring himself to ignore him. But it was not purely because of his golden heart. Most of the credit went to Raelle since Xiang Weimin was not only her elder brother but was also someone who resembled Raelle a lot.

    How could Hyson not pay attention to such a person?

    "Don''t always bring trouble to yourself," said Raelle lightly when she evaluated the reason why Hyson paid so much attention to Xiang Weimin.

    Hyson yawned and saidzily, "What can I say? I am just that fond of troubles." He watched from the side while Raelle went back to work. Looking at the heap of work she had to get done, he pouted. "How can someone make so much of a mess in just one day?"

    "If you ask me, who am I supposed to ask?" she retorted. "I''ve also been thinking how my staff managed to mess things up to this level within one day."

    It was truly baffling to anyone. She felt like everything was in disorder. And she definitely didn''t like disorderly things. It made things troublesome. And she was still the same Raelle who would avoid troublesome things as much as possible. It''s just that her definition of troublesome was bing quite loose now.

    "You continue to work then," said Hyson as he stood up. "I should get going now." He seemed like he was actually forcing himself to move right now. He clearly didn''t wish to go to thepany. He never liked those meetings with the management. "Don''t just work. It''s almost time for lunch. Don''t forget to eat."

    "I know," was Raelle''s response.

    "I''m leaving now," said Hyson.

    "Okay."

    "I''m really leaving."

    "Got it."

    "I''m almost gone."

    "I see."

    Hyson tsked at her when he opened the door and said, "And now, I''m gone."

    Only when he stepped out the door did Raelle lifted up her head to look at the closed door of her office. If one looked closely, one would be able to see the helplessness in her eyes which even she wasn''t aware of. But anyone who saw these two together could easily tell that Raelle Xiang was actually helpless before Hyson. There was no other way around it.

    Meanwhile, Cloe was spinning around in the office like a top. Since she had to bear the pressure of Raelle''s silence, she ended up scolding her own assistants. Only aplete and perfect n was supposed to be put on Raelle''s desk and yet these assistants of hers actually dared to mix up iplete things.

    She didn''t look as well-kept as she did in the morning. Now, even her hair was sticking out of ces.

    *Ring!*

    Cloe took her phone and answered the call, "Who is it?" She sounded snappish.

    The person on the other end was silent for a while before he dared to speak out softly, "It''s me. Xukun."

    Cloe almost pped her mouth for being so rude. She had a really good impression of Cui Xukun from their very first date. And she could also see that he was interested in her as well. She didn''t want to ruin that impression but now...

    With an awkwardugh, Cloe said, "Oh, it''s Mr. Cui."

    "I told you, you can just call me by my name," reminded Cui Xukun. Mr. Cui was too distant but he couldn''t force her either. Technically, they just met. So, it wasn''t right to start running before learning how to walk. "Anyway, did I catch you at a bad time?"

    Cloe groaned out, "It''s really a bad time."

    "Oh, I wonder what happened?" he asked curiously. "If you don''t mind, I can listen to you."

    Cloe pressed her lips together before telling him, "My boss is in a bad mood today." That was how she could put it. Except for the bad mood, she really didn''t know how to define Raelle''s situation. "Someone made a mistake with a contract and we almost lost millions because of that. So, after learning this, she ended up nitpicking on the smallest of mistakes. Not like that''s new. But the problem is, she was gone for one day and people made a lot of small mistakes during her absence. As they say, drops of water make an ocean, so you can imagine when those small mistakes piled up, what happened."

    "That sounds awful," said Cui Xukun.

    Cloe could only nod in agreement. It not only sounded awful, but it was also really awful. Thankfully, Hyson showed up and now, she was hoping that Raelle''s below zero temperature would start to rise up again.

    "Are you looking for me for something?" inquired Cloe.

    "Not really," answered Cui Xukun and hesitated. "I just wanted to talk to you. That''s all."

    "Oh..." Cloe didn''t know what else she could say in reply to that.

    "Actually, I also wanted to ask something."

    "What is it?"

    "You won''t mind if I send you something, right?"

    Cloe was shocked to hear that, "What do you want to send me?"

    "It''s nothing too fancy," he replied in a small voice.

    *Knock!*

    Cloe looked up to see one of her assistants at the door, holding a box in his hand, "Someone sent this for you."

    As he ced that box on her desk, Cloe looked at the chocte box. On the box was a sticky note that read, ''Choctes make everything better.''

    Cloe''s lips curled up involuntarily. "Thanks for the choctes."

    Cui Xukun breathed a sigh of relief and smiled to himself, "I''m d you liked it."

 Chapter 356 - Gossips

    "Do you know that actress XX is dating director Y?"

    "Popr star X''s assistant threw a hot coffee on her hands."

    "That emerging actor actually has a financial backer."

    The more he heard the more Lin Zhen''s head hurt. He was so annoyed that he wanted to beat Pei Zi Hong right here and right now!

    "Shuyi, you better shut up before I run out of my patience!"

    Pei Zi Hong lost his excited look as he said, "Zhen Ge, I am actually sharing some hot inside news of the industry with you."

    "Are you sure that''s inside news and not popr gossip in the circle?" questioned Huang Shuyi as he ran a hand through his red hair.

    Pei Zi Hong instantly looked solemn as he defended, "How can it be called gossip?"

    Fang Yiwen licked his canines before he looked at Pei Zi Hong and questioned, "When did you be a gossipmonger?"

    "Since the time I have nothing else to do," answered Pei Zi Hong. He was also helpless. He was too idle since the time of his dating scandal. To pass his time, he could only read this gossips. But it seemed like he was getting addicted to such real-life dramas.

    Right then, Hyson came to join them and dropped down like a salted fish on the sofa.

    "How are you, Fai?" asked Lin Zhen in a concerned voice.

    "I could have been better if I didn''t have toe here," answered Hyson in all honesty.

    Lin Zhen patted his shoulder, "Bear with it. It won''t take long."

    "Yeah, it won''t take long," added Pei Zi Hong. "Who knows if they even want us or not?" He shook his head helplessly as he informed Hyson, "Do you know several of the artists actually terminated their contracts and jumped ships?"

    "Because of the new management?" inquired Hyson.

    Pei Zi Hong looked strange as he said, "That''s just an excuse, little Fai. No one even knew who the new boss is until today. They started terminating their contracts two weeks ago. Do you know what that means?"

    "They are using this opportunity to leave a sinking ship," responded Hyson.

    "Bingo!" Pei Zi Hong rubbed Hyson''s fluffy hair. "I knew you''re smart."

    "Zi Hong Ge, you''re quite well informed,"mented Hyson.

    Pei Zi Hong looked proud of himself, "Well, I have been keeping my eyes and ears open."

    "And by that, Zi Hong means he had been spending way too much time going undercover in girl''s chatroom."

    Pei Zi Hong red at Huang Shuyi for revealing his secret.

    The rest of them burst outughing when they heard that statement from Huang Shuyi. But Pei Zi Hong wasn''t embarrassed, "Well, girls are well informed. It can''t be helped."

    "Does your girlfriend know what you''ve been up to?" asked Hyson. "Or should I tell her?"

    "She knows," answered Pei Zi Hong. "She is the one who gave me that idea."

    Hyson''s eyes widened when he heard that, "I didn''t think she was..." He didn''t know how to describe her.

    "Wait," Fang Yiwen spoke up as he lifted his eyes from his phone. "Little Fai, you know Zi Hong''s girlfriend?"

    Hyson nodded his head, "I met her a couple of times."

    Fang Yiwen sneered at Pei Zi Hong, "What a brotherhood! You actually let your girlfriend meet our Little Fai but not any one of us? Why? Were we going to bite her or something?"

    "Those vampire teeth of yours really makes me feel like you might bite her to suck her blood," retorted Pei Zi Hong making Fang Yiwen pick up a cushion and throw it at his face.

    Pei Zi Hong caught it easily andughed out, "I''m kidding. I''ll introduce her to you all but at the right time. In Fai''s case, it was a bit unexpected."

    Lin Zhen received a text and he stood up, "Let''s go to the conference room, it''s our turn now."

    "Finally," said Huang Shuyi as he stood up and stretched his neck.

    All of them took the elevator and reached the conference room. The door was pushed open and one by one all of them entered with Lin Zhen taking the lead. It really gave one the illusion that Lin Zhen was bringing his kids for a parent-teacher meeting.

    Inside the room, the only person they could recognize was the Vice President of thepany, it seemed not all of the management was changed. But when they looked at the person seated on the main seat, all of them paused for a moment.

    The biggest reaction had to be from Hyson who was dumbfounded to see that person. However, heposed himself and showed no sign that something was wrong. But he did raise a brow at that person in question.

    Shui Xian chose not to respond to those questioning eyes for now.

    Yes, the one on the head seat was actually Shui Xian himself. And that''s why Hyson was so surprised right now to see him here. However, just like Hyson, Shui Xian also didn''t show anything on his face. After all, currently, he was in her professional mode, he''d not show personal feelings in serious business.

    "First of all, we''d like to ask you all if you would like to resign your contracts with thepany," started one of the people from the team seated before them.

    "All of us?" questioned Lin Zhen on behalf of his group.

    "Yes, all of you," answered that woman with a polite smile.

    Pei Zi Hong was surprised a bit when he heard that. He didn''t think they would want to keep a problematic artist like him. After all, even though they took over an establishedpany, currently it was like an empty shell because most of the famous artists chose to jump ships. Now, thispany was said to be like starting all over again. Was it okay to keep an artist like him?

    As if Lin Zhen could read Pei Zi Hong''s self-deprecating thoughts, he pinched his thigh under the table where no one could see it, and only then did Pei Zi Hong snapped out of it.

 Chapter 357 - Welcome To Xing Entertainment

    Since they wanted to keep all of them, that meant their group wasn''t being abandoned. That was one thing to rejoice about.

    "From our analysis, the group''s poprity didn''t take a hit just because one of the members was found to be dating," stated the team leader in a clear way. "There is some negative publicity but it isn''t enough to ruin the group''s future. After all, ''Fantasy'' isn''t just a group with a high face value. You all reached this point because of your talent. None of the people who debuted in the same time period as you have as much sess as your group."

    This was something they were all clear about. And this was also one of the reasons, Lin Zhen wasn''t willing to give up on his group. Although these boys were quite a headache at times, they were still really talented. They were all meant to shine on the stage.

    "We have already made a n how to get you back in front of the public''s eyes."

    A new n for their future was ced in front of them. Only Hyson didn''t get one. But he wasn''t anxious either about it.

    This new n was really good. It showed that the management really valued them a lot. Huang Shuyi was still to continue as the mentor for a youth talent show. But this time, thepany got a lot of benefits for him. Fang Yiwen was surprised to see that he was chosen as the face of his favorite game and he was even gonna live stream with his fans while ying. It couldn''t be better for him at this point.

    The most surprised were Lin Zhen and Pei Zi Hong. Since Lin Zhen had a contract in hand. He was chosen topose an OST for the currently most-hyped drama. And Pei Zhi Hong was chosen to sing the OST. With how many fans were calling him out online for dating, he didn''t think anyone would choose to have him as a singer for an OST.

    "You all can take this back and think about it clearly," they were told.

    "Hyson," Shui Xian called out. "You stay back to talk about the movie you signed and the rest can leave now."

    When he gave the signal, not only the other members left even the management team left the conference room as well. Now, only Hyson and Shui Xian were left in there.

    "Mr. Shui, what a pleasant surprise," said Hyson with schadenfreude swirling in his eyes. "Does your wife know what you''re up to?"

    Shui Xian cleared his throat, "She doesn''t take interest in my business."

    "Oh..." Hyson responded strangely.

    "Oh, cut it!" said Shui Xian. "I''m not here because of you. In fact, we were going to acquire this entertainmentpanyst year. Some dy happened but now it''s been done. When I first bought the shares, I didn''t even know my wife."

    Even Hyson knew that Shui Xian wasn''t reckless enough to take over a business just because of someone. He must have a thorough n. How else would he have be a sessful businessman?

    "And I''m not trying to save your group as well," added Shui Xian. "I''m a businessman, I have to think about my profit. It''s the team I brought who has chosen to give their all to all of you. They believe you all are worth it and I just happened to mention that I agree with their words."

    Hyson smiled to himself, "Xian Ge, you don''t have to exin so much to me." He took a look at Shui Xian and added, "Ellie is right though. All businessmen are profiteers. Feelings really don''t matter."

    "Are you calling my wife a profiteer?"

    "Who doesn''t know that?" retorted Hyson. "Ellie would definitely think about her profits and losses before making a decision. She is a profiteer through and through. You can''t change my mind since that''s how she is!"

    "Let''s get to serious business," said Shui Xian. "Do you really want to continue filming that movie?"

    "Yeah," answered Hyson. "I already told Miss Sora that if she wants me to y the role, I''ll just do it. But I can''t guarantee good acting."

    Shui Xian wasn''t surprised to hear that, "I know that already. But well, you don''t have to act perfectly. I believe your fans will be willing to watch the movie just to see your face."

    "That can''t be right."

    "You really underestimate your fan following,"mented Shui Xian. "Anyway, since you''ve decided I won''t say anything."

    "I know what you''re worried about," said Hyson. "Take it easy. I don''t take your sister that seriously. Why would I go mess with her when I don''t even care about her?" He took a pause and added, "Don''t take offense. I don''t mean to insult her. It''s just how I am."

    Shui Xian was so used to straightforward words now that he really didn''t think Hyson said anything wrong. Indeed, Hyson didn''t take Amiah seriously and that''s why he really won''t care about previous matters as well. That''s just how he was. He was used to going with the flow and he won''t look back.

    "Then I''m d to hear that," was Shui Xian''s reply. He extended his hand towards Hyson and said, "Wee to Xing Entertainment. I hope you have a pleasure working with us."

    Hyson took his hand and shook it heavily before saying, "Don''t tell I''ll be seeing you here all the time."

    Shui Xian shook his head, "That''s obviously not possible. Xing Entertainment is just one of the many listedpanies under the banner of Shui Conglomerate. I definitely can''t give all my time to it. But I have chosen the most capable people for this ce. And for the next half a month, I''ll be here to sort things out."

    "That sounds reassuring," said Hyson. "Then I''ll be counting on you in the future." Then he took out his phone saying, "Now, I have to tell this to Ellie."

    Shui Xian ced his hand on his and stopped him from continuing, "I''ll let her know myself."

    Hyson made a face at him, "Well, that''s even better. She should hear it from you. Then good luck exining to her why you''re my boss now."

    Shui Xian didn''t know why he felt a little chill when he heard that from him.

 Chapter 358 - Siblings

    Xiang Weimin sat in the wheelchair near the window of his hospital ward. The sunlight poured in and he basked with his eyes closed. When he opened his eyes, he looked at the books that Zhai Yanjun left for him.

    Today, Zhai Yanjun didn''te to see him. Obviously, he wasn''t that free. Just because he was stuck in the hospital didn''t mean others didn''t have anything to do. And he didn''t want to disturb Zhai Yanjun that much either.

    In all honesty, he and Zhai Yanjun weren''t that close. They only got to know each other after Zhai Yanjun started dating his sister. And by that time, Zhai Yanjun had already joined the military. Because he knew about the temperament of his own sister, he was even more willing to get along with Zhai Yanjun.

    But it was a pity that those two didn''t get a happy ending. He honestly didn''t know who to me for their on and off rtionship. Perhaps the me lied with both of them. Zhai Yanjun was reticent and his sister was a volcano. It''d be surprising if they really had a peaceful rtionship.

    As he was about to take a book to read, his cell phone rang. His brows raised up when he read the caller id and then a soft smile twinkled in his usually solemn eyes. He was just thinking about his sister and she actually called, this was truly a pleasant surprise to him.

    "Gege, are you in Kia City?"

    "Is that how you start a conversation?" Xiang Weimin replied with his own question instead of answering hers. He already knew that she had the answer to that question.

    "You''re my Gege, why do I have to say hi and hello to you?" came the girl''s careless voice.

    While Xiang Weimin was strict and somewhat rigid in his life, his sister was the opposite of him. Xiang Wai was too casual about life. For her the moment of fun was everything. But she had a strong sense of responsibility and she loved her job. Because of that, the only time one would find her acting seriously would be when she''d be working.

    "Xiao Wai, are you looking for Gege for something?"

    Xiang Wai took a moment before answering, "Not really. I was just confirming where you are. I''lle to see you sometime within this week."

    Xiang Weimin''s interest perked up, "Are you back? Is your missionplete?"

    Xiang Wai sounded frustrated when she answered, "Don''t even mention it. That man tricked us and entered the country. But it''s a good thing, we have a lead for now. You don''t have to worry about it, I won''t let their organization bring those drugs to our country. That''s my promise to you."

    He could almost see her hitting her chest when she said those words and it amused him, making his lips curl up ever so slightly in a doting smile. "Hmm... I have my faith in my sister."

    "I heard you''re gonna stay with the Zhai family?" she asked tentatively.

    "That''s the n for now," answered Xiang Weimin honestly.

    "Why?" she asked again. "I mean, you can go to mom''s ce."

    Xiang Weimin''s expressions shifted as he answered, "Xiao Wai, I have already made ns. Both Granduncle Zhai and his wife are expecting me."

    Xiang Wai sighed out, "Mom would be sad to know that you''re in the same city but didn''t go to see her."

    "I am the one in the hospital," reminded Xiang Weimin. "She shoulde to see me if she misses me so much."

    "But you know about mom''s work," she sounded helpless. "She can''te and go out of the research center whenever she wants to."

    "Well, I don''t expect her toe either," said Xiang Weimin tly. "You shouldn''t ask me to go to see her either."

    "Fine!" she finally agreed. "I won''t say it." She took a pause and added, "But do you really have to go that Zhai Yanjun''s family? Doesn''t dad also have an apartment here? Just go there."

    "Didn''t I tell you before that your rtionship with Yanjun has nothing to do with me?"

    "I remember."

    "Then stop this nonsense."

    "Am I not thinking for your sake? You have never liked staying at anyone''s house," said Xiang Wai. "And then there is also your OCD. Do you expect them to keep note of these things?"

    "My OCD isn''t that severe. Besides, if it''s Yanjun''s house, I can manage. I like his grandparents a lot."

    "If you want grandparents, go look for your own grandfather," Xiang Wai ended up saying in exasperation but her brother''s answer surprised her.

    "I n on doing that," was what Xiang Weimin said. "I heard he is also here." Xiang Wai was even more surprised. She had been out of the country for her mission for months so she wasn''t clear about a lot of things.

    She thought about her words before questioning, "Is she... I mean did hee alone?"

    "No," replied Xiang Weimin. "He brought Raelle with him."

    Xiang Wai went silent for a long moment and when he thought she won''t say anything, she actually spoke up, "Well, that has nothing to do with us. Their family has nothing to do with us either." Before Xiang Weimin could say anything, she went on, "Anyway, I have to leave now. You won''t be able to reach me again. But I''ll contact you as soon as I can."

    "Okay," said Xiang Weimin softly. "Take care of yourself."

    "I should be saying that to you instead," was her response.

    Xiang Weimin looked at his phone with a helpless look in his eyes. But he couldn''t do anything about this sister of his. She had her own ideas and she was old enough to deal with her own life in her own way. He won''t tell her what to do. It wasn''t that she won''t listen to him but he just didn''t wish to do so.

    She was an independent woman and Xiang Weimin wouldn''t want to change that.

 Chapter 359 - Advantage & Disadvantage

    On the other hand, Shui Xian was still talking to Hyson.

    "I don''t want to keep you here for long unless people think that I''m being biased," stated Shui Xian. "But there is something I''d like to hear your opinion about."

    "Go on," Hyson satfortably. Well, he looked way toofortable now that they were on personal topics instead of professional ones.

    "Yesterday, when I was going around the vige with Raelle, we saw a wedding procession." Hyson nodded his head to indicate that he was listening and Shui Xian continued, "When the firecrackers suddenly lit up..."

    He didn''t get the chance to continue before Hyson straightened up and asked, "What did she do?"

    Shui Xian raised his brow and asked, "Was she supposed to do something?"

    Hyson cleared his throat and smiled at him, "It''s good if she didn''t do anything. No need to bring it up."

    Shui Xian scrutinized him intently but didn''t probe for now, as he went on, "Actually, she only covered her ears almost immediately. Nothing too serious."

    Hyson breathed a sigh of relief and nodded his head, "That''s a mild reaction then." Then he frowned to himself, "But if it''s such a mild reaction, how did it catch your attention?"

    Shui Xian had a glint in his eyes as he yet again noticed how shrewd Hyson was. He really noticed the smallest of details from one''s demeanor or words just like his wife did.

    "It was because I saw a shadow of a frown between her brows," he told Hyson honestly. "And it was my first time seeing a visible reaction from her. She isn''t that expressive with her expressions you know. So, that smallest of her move caught my attention."

    "Didn''t she tell you that she is ufortable with loud noises?" Shui Xian raised his brow in return and Hyson added, "I know her. She definitely must have cleared it up right at that moment to you that she was ufortable with loud noises." He took a pause and asked, "Have you see her music collection?"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "I only saw the albums you gifted to her."

    "That''s all her music collection," Hyson told him. "And you must have noticed that none of those albums had been opened." Shui Xian recalled that detail and nodded in reply. "It''s not because she wanted to just disy those albums on her shelves. It''s because music is nothing more than noise to her. There was even a time when the traffic noise was too ufortable for her."

    Shui Xian didn''t know these details so he listened intently.

    "If you ever get to visit the Raelle Mansion in Country G, you''d get to see how far away it is from the city. It''s at a secluded ce with a calming atmosphere. All because Opa and Yanyan wanted to make Raellefortable," he shook his head to himself. "Actually, now the situation isn''t that bad. She slowly got used to the sounds of the world and got used to it. But I think the sound of the firecrackers was sudden so it caught her off-guard and that''s why you got to see a reaction from her."

    Shui Xian thought about all that he heard and was really desperate to know something.

    "Do you know why is it like this though?"

    Hyson''s expressions sank when he asked that and he hesitated a little before saying, "It''s not that I can''t tell you, Xian Ge. I do want to tell you but I think you should ask her instead. It''s not some well-hidden secret that can''t be shared with you. Even if it is a secret, she will tell you as long as you ask her."

    Shui Xian didn''t continue to push him for an answer after all from the moment he saw how Hyson''s expressions sank at the mentioning of this topic, he had a bad feeling in his heart. And this bad feeling made his heart thud wildly against his chest.

    He picked up the bottle of water beside him and drank it to calm himself.

    Seeing that rare expression of seriousness on Hyson''s face, Shui Xian decided to divert his attention to a lighthearted topic as he mentioned, "By the way, do you know what she asked me when she saw the wedding procession?"

    "She asked you what was going on and then she made you exin every single step of the traditional wedding," answered Hyson. Shui Xian was left gaping at him in disbelief.

    "Did she tell you already?"

    Hyson shook his head, "She doesn''t have to."

    Shui Xian made a face when he realized that Hyson still could understand his wife better than him. With just one sentence, he could guess what Raelle said or how she reacted. What a bond! Made one really envious eh!

    Hyson also noticed his sour look and chuckled to himself, "Xian Ge, didn''t I tell you that you should stopparing yourself with me?" He scratched the tip of his nose as he added, "It''s easier for me to understand her. But it''s because I have an advantage over you."

    "What''s the advantage? That you met her way before me?" retorted Shui Xian.

    Hyson shook his head once again, "Not really. My advantage is my life''s biggest disadvantage as well." Shui Xian''s brows knitted up because of his words as he looked at him curiously to wait for an exnation. "My mother can''t talk," said Hyson making Shui Xian''s body stiffen. "When I was young, I learned to understand everything about her so that words wouldn''t be needed between us." Shui Xian''s expression turned even worse. "And that really helped me in understanding Raelle as well. She didn''t like to talk and I was too used to the silence. It ended up making us a perfect pair of best friends."

    Shui Xian really regretted bringing up this topic. He unintentionally poked at Hyson''s wounds.. He really didn''t know what to say now that he had already done it.

 Chapter 360 - My Duck Flew Away

    How could an astute man like Hyson not see Shui Xian''s thoughts? Shui Xian might be a businessman who was used to hiding his emotions and thoughts well but Hyson was also Hyson. If he could read the silence of people, how could he not read someone''s thoughts? So, it was really not a surprise that he managed to see Shui Xian''s thoughts well.

    "Xian Ge, are you feeling bad for me again?"

    Shui Xian was stunned to hear his question.

    "Don''t wear such an expression," added Hyson. "You didn''t hurt me in any possible way."

    Shui Xian offered him a small smile and nodded his head. "I almost forgot to mention that wedding procession actually came as a blessing for me. My wife actually agreed to hold a grand wedding like that."

    Hyson''s eyes widened up in surprise and then he looked at Shui Xian meaningfully before saying, "You''re really capable. I suddenly feel like my admiration for you before hadn''t been enough."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips not knowing how to respond to this praise from Hyson but from his words, he could tell that it wasn''t a small foot to make Raelle agree to a grand wedding. Inwardly, he was feelingcent. He was truly capable, there was no doubt eh!

    "Why didn''t you mention it before?" inquired Hyson. "When do you n to get married in a grand way? I''ll have to make some arrangements. I''ll be the only bridesman there!"

    "I am the bride''s man!" retorted Shui Xian.

    Hyson almost rolled his eyes at Shui Xian but he didn''t wish to be disrespectful to him, so he held himself back. "Xian Ge, I didn''t mean that. I can''t possibly be a bridesmaid now with my gender!"

    Shui Xian''s eyes twitched at Hyson''s exnation, "There is no such thing as a bridesman! If you want to stand by your best friend''s side, wear a dress!"

    Hyson actually went on thinking deeply about this suggestion.

    Shui Xian''s brows quirked up, "Don''t tell me you''re really considering my suggestion."

    Hyson chuckled at him, "No way! I was thinking that if you''re holding a traditional wedding, there won''t be any need for bridesmaids."

    Shui Xian also thought of this and nodded his head.

    Feeling an itch, Hyson asked, "By the way, what did Ellie get for me?"

    Shui Xian looked at his curious cat look and his lips made an arc, "She wanted to bring you some roasted duck from there."

    "Roasted duck?" Hyson licked his lips, "Did you bring it?"

    "No," answered Shui Xian as he looked at his eager look.

    Hyson''s face sank, "What do you mean? No roasted duck for me? How can you forget my souvenir!"

    "Roasted duck couldn''t be considered a souvenir," said Shui Xian.

    Hyson shook his head in disagreement, "That''s so not true. Do you know what''s the real essence of traveling? It''s food! The food that is special to that ce is priceless!"

    "I''ll buy you a roasted duck from here," Shui Xian felt helpless. No wonder that Raelle suggested bringing roasted duck for Hyson. His enthusiasm for food was really striking. And then he imed that he wasn''t really a foodie.

    But then again, Shui Xian thought back and realized that Hyson wasn''t actually a foodie. He was a food enthusiast who wanted to try everything novel. But he always ate moderately.

    "That won''t be the same, Ge!" Hyson pouted and stood up. "I''m going now."

    "Don''t go out with such a face," said Shui Xian. "People might think I bullied you in here."

    Hyson turned back to give him a look of grievance as he imed, "Well, you did bully me. You didn''t bring me a simple roasted duck."

    Shui Xian watched him leaving and suddenly burst outughing. This best friend of his wife was truly one of a kind. He really amused him to no end.

    When Hyson walked out to the lounge, he found the rest of his group mates waiting for him. He thought all of them would have left with their managers but they were still waiting for him. He actually felt touched by this gesture.

    "Fai, what happened to you?" asked Lin Zhen when he noticed Hyson''s depressed look. He thought Hyson would be over the moon. After all, he had already figured out that Shui Xian and Hyson were somehow connected. Since thest time Hyson invited them for dinner, they actually had dinner with Shui Xian''s father. How could Hyson not know the Shui son when he was so close to the Shui father?

    "I just saw my duck flying away right before my eyes," answered Hyson with a sigh making everyoneugh at him. But Hyson felt depressed, he really felt like his duck just flew away.

    "Why did Mr. Shui ask you to stay behind?" inquired Fang Yiwen. "Nothing is wrong, right?"

    Hyson shook his head, "Nothing is wrong. Just wanted to confirm that whether I really want to continue the movie that I signed."

    "What did you say?" asked Huang Shuyi showing rare interest.

    "I do want to do it," answered Hyson. "Even if I don''t want to, I have given my word. I can''t renege." He took a pause and looked at all of them, "Instead, I should be asking you all. How are you all feeling?"

    "I have a very good feeling about this," Fang Yiwen took the lead to say out his mind honestly.

    Pei Zi Hong patted Fang Yiwen''s shoulder and stated, "Well, we have Master Xian as a big boss now. It''s already a big reassurance for our future."

    "I''m not clear about the status of our boss," was Fang Yiwen''s response who never took interest in rich people and their affairs. It was normal that he didn''t know about Shui Xian at all.

    "Just which hole have you been living in?" asked Pei Zi Hong in disdain.

    "I can''t tell you that," said Fang Yiwen. "It''s a secret."

    "Both of you," began Lin Zhen. "That''s enough for now. We have important matters at hand for now.." Lin Zhen also understood that it was not right to talk too much about their new boss.

 Chapter 361 - New Manager

    "Yiwen Ge, have you ever heard about the musicposer Xing?" Hyson suddenly joined their conversation and looked at Fang Yiwen meaningful.

    "No matter which hole I crawled out of, I have definitely heard of that name," answered Fang Yiwen without any hesitation. "That man is almost like a legend in the music industry. It''s a pity that he left the industry too soon."

    "Congrattion, you''re in luck," said Hyson. "Your new boss, Shui Xian used ''Xing'' as his name since the time he was in college. Because he didn''t wish to use the identity of his family, he chose to hide his background. Why do you think ourpany is now named, Xing Entertainment?"

    Not only Fang Yiwen but the rest of them also had a sudden look of enlightenment on their faces. None of them was unfamiliar with that name. They had all heard about the person who was called ''Xing'' when they entered thepany as trainees.

    Hyson was quite pleased with their reactions. He looked up to his Xian Ge, how could he let all these people stay so ignorant? His Xian Ge was amazing, and he had the responsibility to let people know that!

    While he was feeling proud, someone suddenly called him from behind. He turned around and looked at the woman who stood before him. She was dressed in a prim and proper attire with that high bun on her hand. She looked quite professional.

    She extended her hand towards him and introduced herself, "Hello, I''m Li Xinxin. Your new manager."

    Hyson raised his brow at her, "Huh? My new manager?"

    Li Xinxin was surprised by his reaction, "Didn''t boss tell you about it?"

    Hyson shook his head.

    She smiled at him and gave him the details, "Your previous manager chose to jump ship with his other artist. The rest of the group members don''t have to face this problem."

    Hyson frowned when he heard that. He won''t say he had any bad impression of his previous manager but it wasn''t any good either since his previous manager did love to spend more time and effort to cultivate his other female artist. Well, he always believed that he couldn''t reallypete with a woman''s charm so never cared about his manager''s preferential treatment. But he didn''t think he''d take the first chance to run.

    Hyson shook hands with Li Xinxin and gave her a smile, "Then I''ll be in your care from now on, Sister Li."

    Li Xinxin was an experienced person, she could see that Hyson''s smile wasn''t perfunctory so she had a better opinion of him. She nodded her head and said, "That''s what I ought to do."

    Lin Zhen tapped Hyson''s shoulder and said, "Come to the dorms when you have time."

    "Okay," answered Hyson.

    When they left, Hyson followed Li Xinxin to her office and sat down to talk about the details of his future.

    "I''llmunicate with the production team on your behalf," said Li Xinxin. "Since you''re still recovering, I''ll make sure that they give you enough time to recover."

    "I''m not that big of a star," said Hysonnguidly. "I don''t need to put on so much air. What if I made others dissatisfied?"

    "Don''t worry, the shooting won''t be dyed," answered Li Xinxin. "I''ve already looked through it all. I''ve understood the situation clearly. The shooting is going to continue again on the 28th of this month. They''ll first focus on shooting the scenes of the female lead and the male lead. So, it''s alright for you to take your time. We''re not in a hurry. Your full recovery is more important."

    Hyson nodded at her, "Then, I thank you for your consideration." He stood up and offered, "How about I treat you to lunch? It''ll be the start of our new journey together."

    "There is no need for that," Li Xinxin declined with a straight face.

    "I don''t like people who say no to free food," said Hyson honestly.

    Li Xinxin pressed her lips together and stood up saying, "Alright then. I think we can have that meal."

    "Great!"

    Shui Xian was also leaving when he saw Hyson and Li Xinxin walking away. He looked at them thoughtfully before inquiring his personal assistant, "Are you sure that this manager is good?"

    Ma Jin didn''t hesitate to say, "Yes, Master Xian. Miss Li Xinxin is really good at her job. You don''t have to worry about anything."

    Shui Xian hummed softly. He could only wait now. Even though he didn''t want to offer any preferential treatment to Hyson, he still couldn''t neglect him either. If his wife learned that he gave an ipetent manager to Hyson, he might really not see the next day. So, he had to find not only apetent manager but also someone with good character. He hade to understood Hyson somewhat now.

    Most of the time, he just had to treat Hyson as Raelle. It was easier to understand Hyson in this way.

    He had spent way too much time sorting out the management of thispany and missed the time of his wife''s lunch. Now, if he called her, she''d be disturbed. So, he chose not to do so.

    But he still decided to go and eat something on his own. If he didn''t, his wife would not feel good. It was better to just follow your wife''s instructions even if she was not around.

    Hyson and Li Xinxin went to eat at the restaurant which was inside the building. Shui Xian also chose to eat there.

    "Master Xian, would you like to eat with them?" asked Ma Jin when he noticed the direction of his boss''s gaze.

    Shui Xian shook his head, "If I went over there, they won''t be able to talk with each other. He definitely asked her over a meal because he wants to understand this new manager of his. I don''t want to ruin it."

    Ma Jin was actually impressed that his boss could tell the real purpose of this lunch between an artist and his manager.. And here he thought, it was just a friendly meal to cultivate feelings.

 Chapter 362 - Fool & Foolish

    Although Cloe had a bad day, Cui Xukun had actually ended up adding a bit of sweetness into her day. And that actually made Cloe add some plus points for Cui Xukun. She had to say, this blind date of hers was not only attentive but also very thoughtful. She already had a good impression of him and now, it was getting better. Even though Cui Xukun didn''t do much. But this small gesture meant a lot to Cloe.

    Anyway, because of his choctes, Cloe even spent an extra hour at work without anyint. Well, she had no right toin at all since a huge blunder had happened under her nose and she didn''t learn about it until it was toote. It was only right for her to bear the burn from Raelle''s side.

    However, what surprised her today was that Raelle was actually working overtime. This would have been considered normal if it was two months ago but it was different now. Since the time Raelle got married, she had left work right on the dot.

    "Chief," she called out softly. "Your phone is ringing."

    Raelle didn''t stop her work as she told her, "Call my husband back and let him know that I''ll bete today."

    "Oh..." Cloe followed the orders and searched for Shui Xian''s phone number. She called him and informed him of Raelle''s exact words without omitting anything.

    Shui Xian was also surprised that Raelle would bete. She even went to work early today and yet she was not done. "Is she really busy?"

    Cloe smiled softly, "She is very busy actually."

    Shui Xian actually felt a little guilty when he heard that from her. Because it suddenly reminded him that Raelle had to work overtime because of him. If he hadn''t mindlessly spoken out his heart to let her know that he wanted to hug her, she wouldn''t have followed his words and ran over there leaving all her work behind. Although it was a sweet time for him, the aftermath for her was not sweet for sure.

    "Okay, just let her know that I''ll be waiting," he said to Cloe and hung up the call.

    "Chief, Master Xian said that he''ll be waiting for you," Cloe told Raelle.

    "He doesn''t have to though," answered Raelle.

    It was about 8 o''clock at night when she was finally done with dealing with the stuff on hand. "You can leave now, Cloe," she said to Cloe. And before Cloe could take her to leave, she opened her bag and pulled out a brown paper bag. She ced it on the table and added, "Take this with you."

    Cloe wanted to ask what it was but she stopped herself in time. She took the small paper bag and opened it. Inside it was a delicately packed silver anklet. Cloe wasn''t actually that surprised to get a souvenir from her boss. It wasn''t something new that Raelle brought something back for her.

    Seeing how Cloe was looking at the anklet, Raelle zipped up her handbag and told her, "Congrattions once again. My curse of failed blind dates didn''t reach you. This is a small gift to celebrate your sessful first date. Also, don''t ask why I bought you something. This wasn''t expensive."

    Cloe suddenly burst outughing, "Chief, ording to you, there is hardly anything expensive." She shook her head as she spoke. She couldn''t help it, she knew money was just a number for Raelle. But she was feeling really sweet in her heart. Wasn''t it a kind of honor that her immediate boss was so attentive towards her? Raelle even knew that she liked wearing anklets. Not everyone wore it, even Raelle never used such jewelry but she still got it for her.

    "Thank you, Chief," she added after a brief pause.

    Raelle rarely would react to such words but today, she did as she replied with, "You''re most wee." Then she went out leaving Cloe to deal with her own thoughts.

    When Raelle reached home, she found Shui Xian waiting for her at the door.

    "Why are you standing here?" asked Raelle when she came near him.

    Shui Xian held her hand and answered, "Waiting for you."

    "You could wait inside as well," said Raelle.

    "I got impatient," answered Shui Xian with a shrug. He was really impatient. He had been pacing around for a while now. In fact, he paced around so much that even Shui Koshing told him that he was making him dizzy. Usually, it''d be Raelle waiting for him at home but today, it was his turn.

    This feeling of waiting for someone at home was different to him. Although he was eagerly waiting to see Raelle, he still enjoyed this feeling of wait just because he knew Raelle woulde back eventually.

    "Ah! My family''s darling is back atst," said Shui Koshing when he saw Raelle and stood up to greet her. He rushed over to her side, throwing away his book. Raising his hand, he rubbed Raelle''s head lovingly, "How is my family''s darling?"

    "I''m good, how are you, B¨¤?" inquired Raelle in her well-mannered way.

    "As always, nothing is wrong as long as I get to see my family''s darling," answered Shui Koshing with a peal of heartyughter. "Hurry and get freshen up. Let''s eat dinner together."

    "You didn''t eat?" Raelle knew it was already 9 o''clock. She didn''t think they''d be waiting for her over dinner.

    "Nonsense! How can I enjoy dinner without you?" was Shui Koshing''s reply. "I might even get indigestion if I ate with your husband''s cold face."

    "Are you sure I''m your son?" inquired Shui Xian once again.

    "No," said Shui Koshing. "Now, you''re just my family''s darling''s husband."

    "You have changed," said Shui Xian.

    "Did you just notice?" retorted Shui Koshing. Then he lovingly looked at Raelle, "Don''t pay attention to him."

    Following his words, Raelle went to freshen up first.

    Shui Xian faced his father and said, "You aren''t even trying to hide your biasedness anymore."

    "Why should I?" Shui Koshing shot back. "Even if she doesn''t have many expressions, she is still better than an iceberg like you. Eating alone with you is just torture."

    "Before she entered this family, you used to eat with me," reminded Shui Xian. He felt like he needed to refresh his father''s memory who seemed to be forgetting that for the past five years, they had only each other to depend on. Although now that he thought about those dreaded times, he felt like it had been a long time ago.

    "At that time, I had no other choice but to bear with you," was Shui Koshing''s response. "Why do you think I was so eager to get Raelle into this family? It was because I got tired of seeing your stiff face!"

    Shui Xian chuckled at his father, "And now you''re okay?"

    Shui Koshing nodded his head, "Yes. Now, you look a lot more alive. I''m happy to see that."

    "Thank you, B¨¤," Shui Xian said suddenly making Shui Koshing frown.

    "For what?" asked Shui Koshing. "What did I do?"

    "Thank you for bringing me back to life," said Shui Xian. "Thank you for adding some colors to my life."

    "Colors?" repeated Shui Koshing. "Raelle isn''t a colorful person."

    "Nah! She is so full of colors," insisted Shui Xian. "You just haven''t noticed it yet."

    When Raelle came downstairs, all three of them sat down for the dinner together. It had been weeks since theyst had dinner together as a family. So, today''s dinner was really special to all of them.

    "Raelle, did you have a good time?" asked Shui Koshing. "Did this fool take you anywhere or just worked all the time?"

    "B¨¤, what exactly do you think of me?" Shui Xian couldn''t help asking.

    "I think my son is a fool," replied Shui Koshing without thinking.

    "I might be a bit foolish but I''m not a fool," Shui Xian shot back. "Right, wife?"

    Raelle looked at him and said, "There is a difference between the two?"

    Shui Koshing burst outughing at Raelle''s words and gave his son a look making Shui Xian grumbled under his breath. "Wifey, you should be on my side. Didn''t your guide to a sessful marriage taught you that? A wife should always stand by her husband."

    "I didn''t take sides though," was Raelle''s response.

    Shui Koshing red at his son, "Don''t find faults with my family''s darling. She is always right."

    "Well," Shui Xian shrugged his shoulders. "That''s true. My wife is indeed always right." Shui Xian couldn''t possibly find words to argue with that.

    "Elle!"

    As they were walking towards the lounge to sit together after dinner, they all heard an excited voice. Even before the person showed up, they could hear the echo of that loud voice. And needless to say, none of them had to guess who this excited and impatient voice belonged to.. None of them were unfamiliar with that voice, after all.

 Chapter 363 - Photoshoot

    Who else could it possibly be if not Mu Chenyan?

    "I didn''t think it''d take you so long to show up," remarked Shui Koshing when he saw Mu Chenyan rushing over to Raelle''s side.

    Currently, Mu Chenyan''s eyes could only gather her Elle in, how would she have time to pay attention to Shui Koshing''sments? She didn''t care at all! She just had to hug her sweetheart!

    And that''s what she did, she hugged Raelle as if she was gonna squeeze her in. Mostly, she wouldn''t do it since Raelle didn''t like such intimacy with others. But Mu Chenyan was one of the people who was allowed to touch her. Yet, Mu Chenyan always tried to keep her touching to a limit.

    This time, she couldn''t help hugging her family''s baby girl.

    She looked Raelle up and down, and breathed a sigh of relief, "It''s good that you''re okay." It wasn''t that she actually missed her so much that she lost her mind. It was because that Mu Chenyan felt like her Elle''s emotional eptance was growing up. And she was willing to try something which she found troublesome before. Take this surprise trip, for instance, was it something that Raelle would have done before?

    When she let her go, only then did Raelle see Yue Yue also following behind her. She also smiled at Raelle kindly and lovingly but she didn''t try to squeeze Raelle like Mu Chenyan. Instead, she caressed her face and showed her a brilliant smile.

    "Yanyan should havee early," said Shui Xian. "We just finished dinner."

    "Well..." Mu Chenyan didn''t know what to say to him.

    "She was waiting for Opa to go to his room before sneaking over," answered Raelle in her ce.

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips before sheughed heartily, "Indeed, my sweetheart knows me best." Then she sighed out and went on, "But it''s not my fault. Elder Xiang said I should go over to see my Elle at this time. I''d be disturbing your rest, you just came back and a lot of h h h. Half of it, I didn''t even pay attention to."

    When she said that, Yue Yue actually knocked on her head from behind and even red at her best friend for talking nonsense.

    Mu Chenyan shrugged her shoulders casually, "Did I lie? I always speak the truth when ites to my Elle." Then she turned to Shui Xian, "How are you, our family''s dearest son-inw?"

    Shui Xian didn''t know why but every time she called him ''our family''s dearest son-inw'' he felt a chill run up his spine. And tonight was no different.

    Mu Chenyan patted Shui Xian''s back as she gave him a smile, "You''re really a talented son-inw. You even managed to make my family''s baby girl put you before her work. That is some real talent."

    Shui Xian felt like that pat from Mu Chenyan on his back was too heavy. So heavy that he felt painful. But he couldn''t even show it! What a misery! He even had to keep a smile on his face when he faced Mu Chenyan. This was so not easy, okay!

    Shui Xian had not had much experience with physical fights. Although he learned how to fight, he did it for self-defense. There was no other purpose and the offensive value of his learning was too low. On the other hand, Mu Chenyan technically grew up fighting her way around. How could her simple pat be normal even if she was a woman who was considered middle-aged?

    At this moment, Shui Xian truly believed in everything Raelle had mentioned about Mu Chenyan before. Even if there was some small doubt left, it was all gone now. He even wanted to rub the ce she just hit. He knew she did it intentionally. She was feeling kind of sour since he managed to make Raelle do what no one else could. Although she was happy about this change, it was distressing to her as well. How could she not be sour?

    In fact, Mu Chenyan didn''t use that much of her strength when she patted Shui Xian. However, she knew where to strike to deliver maximum damage, how could Shui Xian be her opponent? She only learned offensive techniques in her life. The defense was never her cup of tea. She''d rather strike first than trying to block others.

    But even though Shui Xian suffered, he still didn''tin, "I have no real talent. It''s you who has raised her so well."

    "Use that sweet mouth on someone else," said Mu Chenyan but inwardly she was quite satisfied with it.

    She was always smug when people said she raised Raelle. And she raised her well!

    She so wanted to go to that ex-sister-inw of hers and show off! Didn''t that woman say to her back then that a crude person like her can never raise a girl well? She wanted her to see that she raised her family''s Elle into a great person. Okay, her contribution wasn''t much since Raelle was already great on her. But that didn''t mean she won''t show off!

    "Don''t just stand there," said Shui Koshing. "We are about to drink some tea. Let''s all sit down and chat together."

    None of them had any other ns so they all settled down. Soon, the tea and snacks were served.

    "I was just asking Raelle how her trip was and did she enjoy it?"

    Mu Chenyan also looked at Raelle with an eager look, "Yes, Elle, did you have fun?"

    Raelle thought about it before saying, "It can be defined as fun."

    Mu Chenyan was happy to hear that, "That''s good."

    Yue Yue also joined them and asked with her hand signs, ''Fai said you clicked a lot of photos?''

    "Yes, he said if I didn''t bring any photos, he''s not gonna talk to me," answered Raelle truthfully.

    Yue Yue was dissatisfied when she heard that, ''That idiot forced you to click photos? Don''t worry, I''ll ask him for you. I''ll ask him well!''

    Mu Chenyan gave her a look, "Hey! Focus! Fai didn''t do anything wrong. Even if he used threats, what he did is a good job! I totally support him."

    ''When didn''t you?'' was Yue Yue''s response.

    Mu Chenyan stopped paying attention to her and said to Raelle, "You just show me the photos."

    Yue Yue held Mu Chenyan back, ''We shouldn''t be even here for so long. Let her rest for a day. We can see the photoster.''

    "That''s also true," agreed Mu Chenyan as she bit into the bite-sized cake she picked up and bit it. Then she stood up and said, "Then we should be on our way now."

    "Already?" asked Raelle.

    "We just came to see you," answered Mu Chenyan truthfully. "Now, that I have seen my sweetheart, I can go to sleep in peace."

    When she heard that, Raelle didn''t try to stop them either. She already knew that they really came just to see her. It wasn''t like it was the first time. At least Mu Chenyan would alwayse to see her if she hadn''t seen Raelle in a couple of days. Perhaps, this was the reason she so easily allowed Raelle to marry into the house right next to theirs. It was convenient for her this way to even jump over the wall toe and see her Elle whenever she wanted to do so.

    "In fact, why don''t you send us the photos," suggested Mu Chenyan.

    "Why?" asked Raelle.

    "If we found a good one, we''ll get it developed and then frame it to hang in your bedroom."

    "That''s a good idea," echoed Shui Koshing. "You both are married but there isn''t even a single photo of you two in your bedroom. It''s too in. It doesn''t even feel like someone lives in that room."

    "How do you know?" inquired Shui Xian. "You don''t go to the third floor anyway."

    "I don''t have to see it to know," retorted Shui Koshing as he gave his son a disdainful look.

    "Anyway, it doesn''t matter how you know it but I like your idea," said Shui Xian. "I also think we should have some photos in our bedroom." He hugged Raelle''s waist and added, "How about a wedding photoshoot? We will need it for the wedding anyway."

    Raelle deadpanned, "There is no such thing as a wedding photoshoot in a traditional wedding."

    Shui Xian almost cursed out loud before all these elders. He couldn''t fool his wife. He couldn''t even try to take a mile when he was only offered an inch by her. She must have done her own research on traditional weddings already. How could he forget his wife was thirsty for knowledge?

    "Baby, it doesn''t matter," said Shui Xian. "We are in a modern world. We should move with the world."

    "Fine," agreed Raelle. "It''s true that we should move along with the world. So, it''s okay to do a photo shoot."

    Shui Xian had a triumphant smile on his lips.. He looked too pleased with himself right now.

 Chapter 364 - Bridesmaids

    Mu Chenyan and Yue Yue were about to leave when they heard Shui Xian talking about a wedding photoshoot with Raelle and then they both couldn''t walk away from it. Especially since it seemed like Raelle actually agreed! She AGREED?!!!

    "Excuse me?" Mu Chenyan suddenly spoke up. "Whose wedding?"

    Shui Xian ced his arm around Raelle as he announced, "Our wedding."

    Mu Chenyan''s brows quirked up showing her surprise quite clearly on her face at the moment as her eyes moved from Shui Xian''s smiling face to Raelle''s straight face. And then her eyes shifted back and forth between these two and yet the answer stayed the same. That only added fire to her surprise.

    Saying that she was not expecting it would be an understatement.

    "Ellie," she called out softly. "You... You really agreed to hold a wedding?"

    Raelle nodded her head in response to her question and she could actually see the disbelief on Mu Chenyan''s face as well. In fact, she could understand that disbelief too. Even she had never thought she''d agree to something like that one day. But now that she had agreed, she couldn''t just take back her words.

    Besides, Shui Xian looked way too excited, and seeing his happiness, Raelle didn''t feel like taking back her words.

    "I still can''t believe it," Mu Chenyan rubbed her forehead as she muttered to herself.

    "You said, we can''t always be stubborn in a rtionship," said Raelle and Mu Chenyan looked up to face her. "My Yanyan said it''s okay to do something against your principles if it makes someone happy."

    Mu Chenyan felt like her eyes were stinging all of a sudden. She didn''t know why she felt so touched even though she knew Raelle always remembered every little detail in life. It still meant a lot to her that she not only remembered her words but she also cherished those words in her own way.

    "Aiyah! Who raised this beautiful girl?"

    Yue Yue pointed at her and Mu Chenyan burst outughing as she continued, "That''s right. I raised her. I suddenly feel so proud of myself."

    Yue Yue rolled her eyes at Mu Chenyan and left her reeling in her own feelings while she went over to Raelle and said, ''How about I make your wedding dress? Is that okay?''

    Raelle nodded her head, "Isn''t it obvious? If it''s my wedding dress, it has to be made by my Yue Yue."

    Yue Yue was over the moon to hear that and there was so much inspiration exploding in her mind right now. Just the thought of making a wedding dress for Raelle had her hyped up. She felt like she won''t be able to sleep tonight from all this excitement. But it''s alright. She could put all this energy into the design tonight.

    "When did you both n it?" asked Shui Koshing as he came out of his surprise. "And why didn''t I know that? How am I gonna prepare everything at such short notice?"

    "B¨¤, you don''t have to worry so much," said Shui Xian. "Raelle is still busy with a project and won''t have time for at least a couple of months. We''ll hold a wedding after that as I promised to her. Meanwhile, you can n everything you want to."

    Shui Koshing rxed when he heard that. "That sounds so much better. It''s good that I got a heads-up early on." He took a moment to add, "Oh, by the way, how about a destination wedding?"

    "We can just go to the private ind we have," Mu Chenyan also added.

    "Since we are already holding a wedding, let''s make it a bit grand, eh?" Shui Koshing spoke again.

    "Usually, I don''t want to show off but if it''s about my Ellie, I have to show her off to the whole world. So, yes! Let''s make it grand," Mu Chenyan also agreed. "It''s also a good thing that I chose a good son-inw, at least, he has something to show off about."

    "Ouch!" Shui Xian mumbled to himself and only Raelle heard it. Not because his voice was low, but because the rest weren''t paying attention to him at this point.

    Right now, these elders were too absorbed in putting forth their ideas for the wedding.

    "Isn''t it, my wedding?" asked Raelle all of a sudden catching everyone off-guard.

    "Of course, it is," answered Mu Chenyan.

    "Then why aren''t you asking for my opinion?"

    That shut everyone up. Indeed, it was her wedding and they were supposed to get her opinions but... Did Raelle really have an opinion when ites to something like weddings? Weddings that she had always found tedious and troublesome?

    Well, the truth was, that Raelle really had no opinion.

    "We still have time, don''t get so excited," added Raelle.

    "But weddings are always like this," said Mu Chenyan. "You always have to prepare everything as early as possible."

    "And how many weddings have you arranged, Yanyan?" questioned Raelle straightforwardly.

    Mu Chenyan licked her lips and answered, "None." She took a brief pause to add, "But just because I haven''t seen amb running doesn''t mean I have never eatenmb kebabs. I have to take everything into consideration before nning your wedding."

    "You don''t have to do anything," was Raelle''s nd response. "Because in today''s society, we have wedding nners. Let the professionals do their jobs. Since you like eatingmb kebabs, focus on that. You don''t have to watch thembs running."

    Yue Yue pursed her lips to suppress herughter while Mu Chenyan''s shoulders slumped down. "It looks like I really am not needed."

    "Who said that?"

    Mu Chenyan looked up at Raelle who went on, "Your job is to dress up and stay your beautiful self. After all, I still want my Yanyan to stand beside me as my bridesmaid." Her eyes moved to Yue Yue as she continued, "And you too." Yue Yue was just as stumped as Mu Chenyan when they heard that from Raelle. "You both are the closest women in my life. Also, the most important ones as well."

    Mu Chenyan held Yue Yue''s hand to stop her own hand from trembling as she said, "Let''s go back home, Yue. I might start crying if I stayed here any longer."

    Yue Yue couldn''t evenugh at her condition when she was no better right now.

 Chapter 365 - Kids

    Mu Chenyan didn''t walk inside the house. She sat down on the stairs right before the main door and looked at the sky with her eyes lost in thoughts.

    Since she sat down, Yue Yue also sat beside her and continued to sit in silence. She looked at the side of Mu Chenyan''s face and realized that she was actually crying right now. It startled Yue Yue for a moment.

    She tapped Mu Chenyan''s shoulder to get her attention, and when thetter looked at her, she asked, ''You''re really crying?''

    Mu Chenyan wiped her tears saying, "I guess I am."

    ''Where is the strong Mu Chenyan I know?''

    Mu Chenyan chuckled at that, "Even strong people have their weak moments. Or you can say even strong people have someone who can make them feel weak once in a while." She breathed out through her mouth as she went on, "I just never thought my weakness would turn out to be a little girl." She looked at Yue and told her, "From a young age, I have always done things my way. No one dictated my life. The people I call family never told me that I had to walk in a straight line to reach my destination. In fact, Elder Xiang always said it''s okay for me to take my time and take some detours in life. He said it''ll allow me to know what destination I really want to reach."

    She buried her face in her hands as she continued, "I always thought I was fearless. I did things recklessly. But it changed with Raelle. That little girl became my weakness before I even knew it. The me who always thought she was fearless began to feel scared. I never cared about my life and did things purely for the thrill of it. But after Raelle came into my life, I wanted to n things out. Because I was scared that if something happened to me, what''d happen to my Elle?"

    She breathed in the cool night breeze, "Tonight, I suddenly felt like the girl who made me realize what fear was, has actually grown up."

    ''She grew up a long time ago,'' was Yue''s response. ''Did you just realize it?''

    Mu Chenyan shook her head, "It''s not that I just realized it. It just hit me way too hard tonight for some reason."

    ''It''s strange,'' said Yue to Mu Chenyan.

    "What is?"

    ''Two kids changed our lives,'' answered Yue. ''And changed us too.''

    Mu Chenyan''s brows knitted up.

    ''With Raelle, you learned how to feel scared,'' said Yue. ''And with my Fai, I learned how to be strong. I had always been a weak character. Unlike you, I was always scared of doing what my heart wished for. I have lost a lot because of this habit. And I have many regrets because of that as well. But in my Fai, I finally found my strength. And he made me realize that the things I always thought were scary weren''t so much. It was all just in my head.'' She looked at Mu Chenyan and added, ''That''s why I said, two kids changed our lives in a very different way.''

    "But would you have it any other way?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Because I don''t want to have it any other way."

    ''Me neither,'' was Yue''s answer.

    Mu Chenyan hugged her shoulder and smiled at her.

    Unbeknownst to them, Hyson had been standing not so far away from them for a while now. From the moment, they came back he had been watching them. And he even heard everything they talked about. There was a small smile at the corner of his lips that he couldn''t get rid of.

    He really wanted to go over to hug these twodies but he held himself back. He didn''t want to intrude on these two best friends.

    Hyson didn''t know whether he and Raelle were really brought strength or weakness to these two gorgeousdies. But he was certain about one thing, he and Raelle would have never turned out to be what they were if it was not for these two. The way they unconditionally loved them was admirable.

    Whether it was Hyson or Raelle, their presence waspletely unexpected for both Yue and Mu Chenyan. And yet these two women didn''t abandon them like the rest of the world abandoned them.

    He silently went back inside the house from the back door and went to his room.

    Meanwhile, Mu Chenyan pulled Yue up as they also decided to go back inside since it was already quitete now. "Oh, by the way, since you''re making Elle''s wedding gown, let me know if you need my help. I''ll do everything you ask me to."

    ''You?'' Yue had a suspicious look on her face as she looked at Mu Chenyan.

    "Of course, what''s wrong with me?"

    Yue shrugged her shoulders, ''I''m just afraid you''ll ruin everything.''

    "Am I so bad?" questioned Mu Chenyan.

    Yue nodded her head, ''You are. At least when ites to things like this.''

    Mu Chenyan red at her, "Fine, fine! But I can help you with getting the material and fabric and stuff."

    Yue thought about it and agreed, ''That I''ll need your help with for sure.''

    Mu Chenyan felt good when she heard that, "I still can''t believe my Elle is getting married. When did she grow up so much?"

    Yue pped the back of her head and reminded her, ''She is already married!''

    Mu Chenyan rubbed the back of her head saying, "It''s different. Don''t you get it?"

    ''I don''t,'' was Yue''s response. And before Mu Chenyan could start exining her nonsensical logic, she went on, ''And I''m not interested in getting it either.''

    "You''re so boring," grumbled Mu Chenyan.

    Yue narrowed her eyes and picked up the cushion from the sofa and hit Mu Chenyan''s head.

    "Ouch! That hurts!"

    Yue didn''t care about herining and followed her upstairs as she continued to hit her while Mu Chenyan continued to try and avoid it.

    Even Hyson ended up opening the door to look at what they were doing and was actually taken aback at the way they were acting like kids now.

    "Fai Fai, help your Yanyan!" Mu Chenyan called out for help. "Your mum is gonna kill me tonight otherwise."

    Hyson sighed out and shook his head at them, "Kids!" and closed the door again.

 Chapter 366 - Humanity

    Back on Raelle''s side, when she went back to her room with Shui Xian, she started getting ready to sleep. And as she moved around the room for one thing or another, she noticed that Shui Xian had been sitting in the same position since earlier and his eyes had been following her around as well.

    After applying moisturizer to her hands, she walked to Shui Xian and waved her hand in front of his eyes. Shui Xian snapped out of it and held her wrist before pulling her on the bed. As he settled her between his legs, he hugged her waist and ced his chin on her shoulder.

    By now, Raelle had already gotten used to this position. For some reason, her husband really loved back hugs. He''d alwayse behind her and hug her waist and he had to ce his chin on her shoulder while rubbing the side of her face against hers.

    "Is something on your mind?" she questioned.

    Shui Xian had his eyes closed as he was still lost in his own thoughts and subconsciously hummed in reply.

    "What is it?"

    Shui Xian opened his eyes and said, "No, it''s nothing. Don''t worry about it."

    Raelle tilted her head and looked at Shui Xian''s face closely. "I believe you are curious about something. You really want to ask me something but you''re holding it back." Shui Xian bit his lip as he really had something he wanted to ask her. "Don''t hold back so much. Didn''t I tell you that I''d always answer?"

    Shui Xian smiled softly at her as he bumped his head against hers saying, "I know you''ll tell me anything I ask. But I am just not sure whether I''m supposed to bring it up or not."

    "You can do it," answered Raelle. "If you won''t ask, how will you understand me?"

    Shui Xian thought about it a little more and finally decided to juste clean with her. If he dragged it on, it won''t do him any good. And it was just as Hyson had told him in the office, he just had to ask Raelle if he wanted some answers. Because even if Hyson had all the answers he wanted, he''d never give those answers to Shui Xian. This was something Shui Xian had to seek out on his own.

    "I met Fai today," said Shui Xian. "And since I was really curious, I asked him a question."

    "What did you ask for?"

    "When we were at that old vige, you looked ufortable with the noise of firecrackers," said Shui Xian honestly. "Although it was just for a moment, I could see it." He took a deep breath before continuing, "When I mentioned it to Fai, he said you''re sensitive to sounds. I wanted to know why but he didn''t tell me."

    "That''s all?" asked Raelle. Shui Xian nodded his head. "That''s such a small matter and it took you so long to ask me this question?" Raelle couldn''t understand what was so difficult in asking this question.

    But since she had never been on the same wavelength with people when it came to emotions, she didn''t dwell on it.

    "Didn''t I tell you that I was kidnapped three times in my life?"

    Shui Xian''s body froze all of a sudden when she brought it up. He thought it was a painful memory and that''s why Hyson was so reluctant to answer him but he didn''t expect it to be rted to this. He suddenly didn''t want her to continue.

    "Let me give you a timeline for when I was kidnapped," said Raelle nkly. "Thest time I was kidnapped was when I was about 8 years old. The second time was when was 6 and the very first time happened ten minutes after my birth."

    "What?" Shui Xian was shocked when he heard thest one.

    Raelle ced her hands on his which had been ced on her abdomen as she continued, "Since my parents were too busy arguing about their divorce, they didn''t even realize that the newborn daughter of theirs never came back after the nurse took her out." Raelle talked so distantly that it felt like she was talking about someone else. But then again, she was just a baby at that time. No matter how clear her memory had been, it couldn''t possibly start from the moment she had opened her eyes to this world.

    "My mother is a renowned researcher," Raelle told Shui Xian for the first time. "She is actually pretty famous in her field. And since she works for the government, her work is quite confidential. I was kidnapped because that organization wanted to use me against my mother. It''s a pity that my mother really didn''t care about my life. Her work had always been her life. She would never choose her daughter over her country. Quite patriotic, don''t you think?"

    Shui Xian clenched his fists as he didn''t want to say anything but he still gritted out, "But you''re still her daughter."

    Raelle patted the back of his hand saying, "You''re taking it way too seriously, Hubby!"

    "Am I not supposed to?" questioned Shui Xian.

    "No," answered Raelle straightforwardly. "After all, it has already happened. And that too, way too long ago. You can''t change anything now. And in my opinion, she didn''t do anything wrong."

    "What?!" Shui Xian almost lost his temper when he heard her say that. "How can you even say that?"

    "Think reasonably, Hubby," said Raelle. "Giving up on my life alone to save millions is quite a good bargain. Sometimes, it''s okay to choose humanity over other things."

    "No!" Shui Xian refused to ept that. He knew he was being unreasonable but he couldn''t help it. He couldn''t possibly be as reasonable as she was.. She could think about everything like it didn''t have anything to do with her but he knew that her life was at stake at that time. How was he supposed to be calm?

 Chapter 367 - Yenay

    *shback*

    Back when Raelle was born, the country was in unrest and everything was chaotic. Neither Raelle''s father, Xiang Hulin nor Raelle''s mother, Song Xin''ai expected that their argument would lead to the disappearance of their daughter. The worst part of that situation was that the couple were thest ones to even know that their daughter had been kidnapped.

    Elder Xiang Tianyu and his wife, Wanda Wu did everything in their power to find their granddaughter. Even Mu Chenyan couldn''t sit still at that time.

    At that time, Song Xin''ai was given a choice. She could save her daughter, she just had to give up her research. But Dr. Song Xin''ai had been a stubborn woman, to begin with. She had staked even her marriage for her work. How could she not give up on her own flesh and blood? In fact, it was too easy for her to give up on her newborn daughter.

    She might have hesitated a little if it was her elder daughter who had been kidnapped but it was the daughter she didn''t even hold in her arms yet. Just because she nurtured the fetus for nine months, was it enough to build a bond strong enough for her to care? It definitely wasn''t.

    "You really won''t even try to save our daughter?" Xiang Hulin had asked his wife.

    Song Xin''ai gave him a distasteful look as she said, "You''re a soldier yourself. Are you telling me that daughter is more important than our country?"

    "I don''t even want topare those two things," answered Xiang Hulin. "But you''ve really opened my eyes today. The way you''re so ready to give up on our daughter is enough to show just how much you havee to hate our rtionship." He turned to leave and added, "I''ll sign the divorce papers. Because now I know there really is nothing left between us for me to fight for."

    While Song Xin''ai was willing to give up on her daughter, the rest of the Xiang family wasn''t. Especially, Raelle''s grandmother, Wanda Wu. She did everything in her power to get her granddaughter back.

    It''s a pity that she lost her life while saving her granddaughter. However, she had no regrets. She was the one who had put Raelle covered in the blood of her own into Mu Chenyan''s hands and told her, "Yanyan, you''re my favorite daughter in the world. You know that, right?"

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head as she held that small baby who didn''t even cry. With trembling hands, Madam Xiang touched baby Raelle''s cheeks as she said, "Let''s name her Yenay. Yenay; one who loves because I want her to be filled with love." Looking up at Mu Chenyan, she had added, "And you, stay with her. You don''t have to give her anything, just make sure she knows that you''re always there for her."

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head once again, "You get well soon, Auntie. We''ll take care of her together. We''ll love her together."

    Madam Xiang shook her head, "You and I both know that''s not possible."

    "Mom..."

    Madam Xiang looked at her son and said, "And you... Don''t ever show up in front of her."

    "Mom?" Xiang Hulin was shocked. "She is my daughter."

    "Well, she isn''t from this day forward!" Madam Xiang was also a strong-headed person, she''d never back off from her stance. "You and your wife only had this daughter in hope that she''d be able to save your marriage. Now, your marriage is already an endgame. So, forget about this child as well. I don''t want you or your wife around her. You both don''t deserve to be her parents."

    Madam Xiang held her husband''s hand and made him promise, "Tiantian, you have to promise me. You''ll never let this son of ours get close to our granddaughter. I don''t want even their shadows toe close to her. You take her away from here. Far away from such parents who can''t even protect their own daughter!"

    Xiang Hulin fell down on his knees as he begged, "Mom, I know I''m wrong. I''m begging you. Please, don''t punish me in this way. You can beat me as much as you want. But don''t take my right of being a father. You can''t do this to me. Please!" Even at that age, he cried like a child before his mother.

    But Madam Xiang who had always loved her son the most was quite stubborn till herst breath. She said she''d never let him have the right to be Raelle''s father and that''s exactly what she did.

    No matter how Xiang Hulin begged for forgiveness, no matter how long he kneeled for, even until herst breath, she wasn''t willing to forgive her son. And Elder Xiang was not ready to break the promise he gave to his wife on her death bed. That became the reason why he took Raelle away from this country that he loved so much.

    It just couldn''t be helped, he loved his wife too much and that love transferred to Raelle. The granddaughter that his wife saved at the cost of her own life. And because he loved these two people so much that he was even more unwilling to be soft-hearted before his son who had been begging for forgiveness for decades now.

    The biggest problem was that Xiang Tianyu lost his wife just because Xiang Hulin and his wife couldn''t sort out their rtionship and ended up putting their daughter''s life at stake. And whenever he thought about his wife''s death, he was even more unwilling to forgive his only son.

    That day, everyone lost something in their life. If there was someone who actually gained something then that person had to be Mu Chenyan who was left holding that small and soft baby who continued to blink her eyes at her without knowing anything. And just like that, that small baby managed to charm Mu Chenyan''s, cold heart.

    *End of shback*

 Chapter 368 - The Second Time

    This was the very first time for Shui Xian to learn something about Raelle''s parents. She told him what she had learned from her grandfather and Mu Chenyan without hiding any detail of it. She didn''t even realize what kind of an impact it had on Shui Xian who was still trying to figure out exactly who was in the wrong back then?

    Was it Song Xin''ai? Who chose not to choose her own daughter?

    Was it Xiang Hulin? Who was just trying to save his marriage?

    Or was it Wanda Wu? Who lost her life just to protect her granddaughter?

    Or it was Elder Xiang? Who just wanted to keep the promise he gave to his dying wife?

    In the end, he couldn''t figure out, whom he was supposed to me in all this? Perhaps, in a way, all of them had done something wrong. But who suffered from it? Was it the woman he was currently holding in his arms? Yes, that''s right. No matter what decisions all those people took back then, the person who was most affected was Raelle.

    He stared at the side of her face and felt a bitter taste in his mouth since it seemed like even Raelle didn''t think there was anything wrong with that whole situation or how it ended. But then again, she could even reasonably analyze why a mother chose to give up her own daughter, how could he be surprised by this?

    He shook his head and sighed out, "Don''t you think your grandmother did something wrong by keeping you away from your parents?"

    "No," answered Raelle. "She gave me this life. I am thest person in this world who gets to question why she did what she did."

    Shui Xian was taken aback by her answer. He somehow felt like she was right. Indeed, she really couldn''t question her grandmother of all people. She just couldn''t.

    "Besides, even if I keep my grandmother out of this," she looked into his eyes and went on, "My father would have never been able to give me the love I needed. After all, his guilt towards me would have always overpowered his love for me. By pushing him out of my life, my grandmother wasn''t exactly punishing him. She was protecting me."

    Shui Xian didn''t know what to say to that. It was true that he understood that if Madam Xiang hadn''t pushed Xiang Hulin away, Raelle still wouldn''t have had aplete family. After all, her parents were already about to divorce.

    "Anyway, this story had nothing to do with your original question," said Raelle. "I just told you this story because you seemed like you wanted to know." She leaned her head back on his shoulder and yed with his fingers as she started, "The second time I was kidnapped was when I was six years old. Back then, I wasn''t allowed to leave the house on my own. After all, I was young. One day, I just wanted to go out but neither Opa nor Yanyan were at home. I took a housemaid with me and went out."

    Even if it had been years, the memory was still vivid in Raelle''s brain. She could remember every single detail of her life from the time she had started understanding things. At that time, she was six. She wasn''t really a baby, who knew nothing, especially with her level of intelligence.

    It was just supposed to be a short walk to the nearest bookstore but it ended up in a sticky situation. They had run into human traffickers. To save her own life, the housemaid actually pushed the little Raelle towards the human traffickers and ran away.

    "Those people brought me to a ship where a lot of other kids my age were ced in cages. And just like that, I was also pushed into one of those cages," said Raelle with no expression on her face. Her voice and eyes were still as devoid of emotions as ever. She still gave off a feeling that it didn''t concern her at all.

    "I spent 8 hours in that cage before Yanyan came to my rescue," she told Raelle. "In those 8 hours, I was surrounded by the sound of whimpers, crying, screams of other children who were there." Shui Xian''s hands started shaking as he clenched his jaw. "The ship was damp, dark, and dirty. And every time the children tried to cry, someone woulde with a steel rod and knock it against the cage. That buzzing sound of the steel rod hitting the cage was really unpleasant. It felt like it tried to pierce through every single metal defense one had. In those 8 hours, that man hit the steel rod exactly 308 times against my cage."

    Shui Xian didn''t even realize it himself but his arms around her waist had tightened. He couldn''t help it. He felt like he was living that moment with her and yet, he couldn''t possibly imagine what she went through at that time. He could hardly remember what he was doing when he was six years old but she was different. Wasn''t it torture that her brain couldn''t even remove such unpleasant memories?

    Raelle slid her fingers through his and interlocked their hands as she brought up their hand and dropped a kiss on the back of his hand as she added, "Well, now you know why I became so sensitive to sounds. It''s true that I don''t really enjoy music. It is also just noise to me. Too loud for me. But it has gotten better now. I am not as sensitive as before."

    To be honest, Shui Xian wasn''t feeling good after listening to these two stories. But he managed to learn a lot about her. One of the facts he realized was, why she always kept her distance from the house help. It was the betrayal of that one maid that made her keep her distance from the rest. Better safe than sorry!

    "Let''s go to sleep," said Raelle.

    "Huh?" Shui Xian came out of his thoughts. "But what about the third time?"

    Raelle kissed his jaw saying, "I don''t think you''re in the condition to hear anymore."

    Only then did Shui Xian notice that he was actually sweating profusely and his whole body was shaking badly. Perhaps, he felt more listening to it all than Raelle who had been through it all.

    "Let''s continue the third one tomorrow," added Raelle.. "This much is enough for today."

 Chapter 369 - Only Yours

    Raelle ended up sleeping right on time as per her routine without so much of a second thought but poor Shui Xian couldn''t do the same. His night had be restless after what he heard from Raelle. He looked at her sleeping face in the dim light and asked softly, "How are even able to sleep so soundly?" The back of his fingers caressed her cheek as he questioned, "Baby, does it really not matter to you?"

    However, he was bound to not receive an answer from a sleeping person. Perhaps, he wasn''t really looking for an answer right now.

    When the morning came around, Shui Xian had big dark circles because he hardly managed to get any sleep. Raelle on the other hand was looking as fresh and energized as ever. There was really hardly anything that could disrupt her life. Even though Shui Xian was super tired, he still dragged himself out of the bed and went out for a morning jog with Raelle.

    While running, Shui Xian was really in his own world. And his mood worsened when he didn''t manage to even see his favorite dog, Coco in the park. It had been a while since hest saw that happy and fluffy dog that always managed to lift up his mood. But today, he was bound to be disappointed since Coco didn''t seem to be there.

    He thought he was being discreet when he tried to look for Coco but Raelle still caught his small movements. But she didn''t say anything to him regarding that.

    "I will be skipping our phone call during the lunch break today," she told Shui Xian when they were going back to the house.

    "Huh? Why?"

    "I have to go out to meet Soren during that time," answered Raelle.

    "Why is he disturbing my wife''s lunch break?" grumbled Shui Xian. "And what about lunch? Are you gonna eat out?" He asked that question since he knew she didn''t like eating out even if she wasn''t particr about what she ate, she was particr about who made that food.

    "No, I''ll have the lunch in the car," answered Raelle.

    "Is that okay?"

    "Absolutely!" was her response.

    They went back home and as usual, got busy with their morning routine. There was nothing different, except for the fact that Shui Xian was too distracted. Raelle was styling her hair when she noticed how he had buttoned up his shirt wrong. Those big dark circles were also quite conspicuous on his pale skin. He seemed haggard and drained out.

    As he sat down on the chair to put on his shoes, Raelle came to stand before him. Shui Xian looked up at her and raised his brows in question. Without a word, Raelle sat down on his legs with both her legs on each side while arms were wrapped around his neck.

    "Hi!" she said.

    Shui Xian was confused but he still replied, "Hi!"

    "How are you, Hubby?"

    "I''m good, Wifey!"

    "Are you sure?"

    "Yes," was his response.

    Raelle''s hand moved down as she unbuttoned his shirt as he asked with a smirk, "Wifey, isn''t it too early for this? We won''t be going anywhere if you act like this?"

    Raelle poked his forehead, "As much as I''d love to continue what you have in mind, it''s still a no for now." Shui Xian''s brows knitted up as she went on, "Get your head out of the gutter. You didn''t button up the shirt right."

    "Oh..." was the only thing Shui Xian could say.

    "Is something on your mind?"

    Shui Xian wanted to shake his head but he knew it was pointless to act okay in front of her. She was like a mind reader. He couldn''t possibly hide it from her. So, he ended up nodding his head.

    "Is it about me?" she further asked and Shui Xian again nodded his head. As Raelle focused on buttoning up his shirt, she said, "You know it''s difficult for me to connect with people, right?"

    "I know," he answered.

    "And you also know that I can''t possibly understand theplicated feelings you''re currently going through," added Raelle. She looked straight into his eyes and said, "But I believe you''re feeling bad for me right now."

    Shui Xian ran his hand through his hair in frustration as he nodded.

    "Even I don''t feel bad for myself, why do you?"

    "Just like you can''t exin why you can''t feel anything, I also can''t exin why I am able to feel everything so deeply," was his answer to her.

    "True," said Raelle. "And I guess I don''t need an answer. I just want to tell you to not dwell over it. I told you already, the past is like a book that has already been read and I have never liked reading the same book twice."

    "Give me some time," he said to her. "I''ll be okay once I sort out my feelings."

    "Take all your time," she answered. "As I told you once, I''m a very patient person."

    Shui Xian chuckled at her response as he hugged her and nuzzled her neck. "Let''s stay like this for a moment. It feels good."

    "Okay," with that, Raelle continued to run her fingers through his hair gently and allowed him to nuzzle all he wanted. But soon, it turned into kissing her neck up and down. "Stop it or we''ll really bete for work."

    "Isn''t that okay?" said Shui Xian as his hot kisses fell along her jaw. "The perks of being the boss, you can bete once in a while."

    Raelle ced her hands on his shoulder to stop him, "No! As the boss, you need to set an example for your employees."

    Shui Xian slumped back on the chair, "Baby, you''re so not fair!"

    Raelle didn''t pay attention to him as she found her concealer and helped put it on his face to hide his dark circles. After she was done, she nodded as if approving the work she had done andmented, "Handsome!"

    Shui Xianughed out loud as he stood up and hugged her whileughing. He pinched her cheek, "Aiyo, whose wife are you? Why are you so cute?"

    "Yours," she answered straightforwardly.

    "Huh?"

    "Wife," she added. "That''s I''m definitely yours. Only yours."

    With that answer, Shui Xian threw his head back andughed heartily. He cuddled her saying, "Yes, that''s right.. You''re my wife. Only mine!"

 Chapter 370 - Be Careful

    As Raelle had mentioned to Shui Xian that she was gonna meet Soren today, currently she was waiting inside the private room of a luxurious clubhouse. Raelle had never been fond of ces like clubhouses. No matter how ''clean'' these ces were. Clubhouses provided different facilities and most included recreational facilities which she was most unlikely to try out.

    This particr clubhouse had been the talk of the town since it openedst year. And since the clubhouse wanted to provide a ce for every kind of people, they had also opened up these private rooms which were meant for business meetings rather than for private parties.

    *Ring*

    Raelle picked up her phone and heard Soren''s voice, "Are you there already?"

    "Yes," answered Raelle.

    "As always, our President Raelle has to be on time, eh!"

    "And you''re gonna bete again," was all that Raelle said.

    Soren ended up coughing since she had hit the mark as always. "I''m sorry!"

    "How long?"

    "Thirty minutes," answered Soren.

    "Got it," said Raelle. Then she dialed a call to Cloe to let her know, "This meeting is gonna take longer than we thought. You have the meeting with the finance department and give me the reportter."

    "Yes, Chief."

    Raelle still had something she wanted to tell Cloe but before she could, the door of the private room was burst open, and in walked armed people holding up their guns. Since the clubhouse was said to be quite safe, Raelle had only brought Anna and Caleb with her inside the clubhouse. And as soon as the door was knocked open, both of them jumped over to stand before Raelle like a wall.

    There was a dangerous aura surrounding these two people who usually didn''t have any presence at all. They usually made their presence so scarce that one might even forget that they had been standing there all along but currently, they were giving off deadly vibes. One that was hard to ignore for anyone.

    Before these two could make a move, Raelle spoke up, "Stand back."

    "Missy?" Anna was shocked to hear Raelle''smand.

    Raelle pointed at the one leading as she said, "They are from the special forces."

    Although Anna understood what she meant, she was still unwilling to back off. It was her job to protect Raelle and she''d never take it lightly.

    Raelle was unfazed by the presence of these strangers who came rushing in and were now looking around the private room as if looking for something. Soon, a woman came to stand right in front of Raelle and looked at her intently.

    "Major, there is nothing here," said someone.

    The woman looked at Raelle and said, "You''ll have toe with us."

    "Are Special Armed Forces so unreasonable?" asked Raelle. "You can take just any citizen with you?"

    "You''re not the only one," answered another person. "We are just doing our job. Please, cooperate!"

    Raelle tapped her leg before she stood up and said, "Alright, let''s go."

    "Missy?" Anna couldn''t help calling out.

    Raelle gave her a look, "We arew-abiding citizens, Anna."

    "But they need to provide us an exnation," argued Anna. "They can''t just ask us to follow them like criminals."

    "If you act like this, you''re trying to obstruct our work," said an officer.

    "Stand down, Anna!" Raelle gave amand and Anna didn''t dare to argue again.

    But as an officer tried to hold Raelle to lead her out, Anna stood in the way and said, "Don''t touch her. You want her to follow, she is following. But no physical touching."

    The man looked at his superior who narrowed her eyes before nodding her head. As they got out of the clubhouse, Raelle could see that they were indeed not the only ones involved in this chaos. Something major must be going on for Special Armed Forces to take such actions.

    They were all led to the military base in the suburbs and everyone was pushed inside an investigation room. And just like everyone else, Raelle was also sitting inside one of these investigation rooms. They had taken Anna and Caleb to some other ce so currently, Raelle was alone in this investigation room.

    And as she sat in that hard chair, she continued looking at the one-way ss in front of her. Her gaze was so prating that it made the person on the other side feel like she was looking right through his soul.

    "This one is interesting," said the captain of the team.

    "Interesting?" asked the Major who was leading this mission.

    "She isn''t scared. She isn''t frustrated. She isn''t angry either. In fact, it''s like she feels nothing about this situation," said the captain.

    "You think she can be a part of that syndicate?"

    "Major Xiang, just because I said she is interesting doesn''t mean she is a criminal," said Captain Teng. "But from the way she carries herself, she isn''t a simple character. She is giving me a bad feeling."

    "What nonsense!"

    Captain Teng tsked at her superior, "Major, don''t forget my intuition is never wrong." She looked at Major Xiang and added, "This intuition has saved my life way too many times. Don''t take it so lightly." She looked back inside the investigation room at Raelle and went on, "Be careful of her. Be very careful."

    "I guess I should take care of this one on my own since only I''ll be able to take good care of this oh-so-dangerous character," said Major Xiang jokingly as she shook her head at her team member.

    Major Xiang Wai walked inside the investigation room and sat on the other side of Raelle with a file in her hand. "Name?" She asked.

    Raelle looked at her face intently as she replied, "Raelle."

    "Full name," asked Major Xiang Wai as she looked up at Raelle. But looking into her eyes, she paused for a moment.

    "Raelle...." Before Raelle could even speak, someone opened the door of the investigation room and burst in rudely.

 Chapter 371 - Quite Popular

    "Who is...?" Major Xiang Wai looked at the door in anger to see who dared to disturb her in the middle of this but couldn''t continue when she looked at the person who stood at the door. "You? What are you doing here?"

    The person who hade inside was Zhai Yanjun and he didn''t even spare a nce at Xiang Wai as his eyes were stuck on Raelle. Seeing that she looked alright, he visibly rxed and walked over to ask, "You okay?"

    Raelle nodded her head in response, "Could have been better but noints about now."

    Zhai Yanjun smiled at how easygoing she was even in this situation. He shook his head at her as he said, "Give me a minute. I''ll take you out of here."

    Xiang Wai''s fists clenched tightly as she stared at Zhai Yanjun who was still ignoring her presence tantly. And then her eyes shifted to Raelle and narrowed dangerously as she wondered who she was for Zhai Yanjun to ignore her like this for Raelle!

    Zhai Yanjun finally looked at Xiang Wai and said, "Major Xiang, aren''t you overreaching your authority?"

    Xiang Wai took a deep breath to not let her emotions interfere with her work as always as she answered, "Captain Zhai, I''m just doing my duty. This mission belongs to our squad. It has nothing to do with your unit. Please, leave and let us do our duty."

    "But you can''t just bring in innocent people," argued Zhai Yanjun.

    "And how would we know they are innocent without investigating?" retorted Xiang Wai. "First, we have to cast a bigger to catch all the fish. Just in case that we don''t let someone slip by."

    "Are you gonna let her stay here until you''ve caught the real culprit?"

    "Yes," was Xiang Wai''s response.

    "Let me see how you do that," said Zhai Yanjun as he turned to leave. Since he couldn''t interfere with her squad, he''d find someone who could do it!

    Xiang Wai took a deep breath before she sat down and faced Raelle. It was strange but it seemed like Raelle could easily read her face as she remarked, "You just pissed off your ex-boyfriend."

    Xiang Wai''s eyes widened when she heard that. "How do you know that he is my ex-boyfriend?"

    "Guess it," answered Raelle nkly.

    Before Xiang Wai could ask anything else, once again the door was opened a member of her team came to inform, "Major, it''s a call from the Major General Kang and he ordered for us to let her go."

    "What?" Xiang Wai was seriously speechless when she heard that. But it didn''t end just there since, in the next five minutes, their squad received three calls from high-ranked military officials and one call from a Minister! And all the calls were for Raelle. Xiang Wai looked at Raelle and asked, "Just who the hell are you? You''re quite popr, I must say."

    "I''ve always been popr," Raelle didn''t think she was supposed to be humble or that Xiang Wai was being sarcastic. Either way, she just stated a fact. She was indeed quite popr. One couldn''t possibly deny that.

    "You can leave now," said Xiang Wai through gritted teeth. Even if she wanted to stop Raelle, she couldn''t do so in this situation. She couldn''t go against her superiors.

    Raelle fixed the sleeves of her zer as she looked at Xiang Wai and said, "Didn''t you just ask who I am? I am Raelle Xiang. Nice to meet you, Major Xiang Wai!"

    And with that, she walked out of there with her head held high without paying attention to Xiang Wai''s mood or expressions.

    Xiang Wai had aplicated look on her face as she repeated Raelle''s name again and again. Even if she had never met her sister, she had heard her name at the very least. At first, she didn''t connect Raelle''s name with her memory but once she said her full name, she''d be an idiot to not connect it all.

    It gave her an even worse feeling when she realized that it looked like Raelle knew her identity from the moment she saw her. Only she was oblivious.

    Captain Teng walked over to her side and said, "Didn''t I tell you she is giving me bad vibes? Major General Kang didn''t sound good over the phone. There is a high possibility our squad is gonna get in trouble for this. I wonder why is she so important?"

    "Major, do you know who she is?" asked another person. "She is one of the richest women in the world! Raelle Xiang! Chairperson of the Xiang Conglomerate! She is a living legend in the corporate world!"

    Captain Teng sighed out, "Heaven is unfair. Really unfair. She is beautiful, smart, and even super-rich. Makes one really envious."

    "Heaven is still fair," said Dr. Wei who hade here on the whim.

    "What do you mean doctor?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "If I''m not wrong, Major, something is wrong with that girl," answered Dr. Wei.

    "She seemed pretty normal to me," said Captain Teng.

    "Tengteng, not everything normal looking is actually normal," said Dr. Wei.

    Xiang Wai didn''t pay attention to what else they said as her mind reyed Dr. Wei''s words again and again. She pulled him aside and asked, "What exactly do you think is wrong? Is it serious?"

    Dr. Wei was surprised that this nonchnt Major was actually so serious about this. "It''s some kind of mental disorder but I don''t think it''s that serious. Not anymore. She looks like a strong person who is able to overshadow her ws which means she is coping well."

    "Mental disorder?" repeated Xiang Wai to herself. "But Ge and I turned out to bepletely fine," she mumbled to herself.

    Dr. Wei patted her shoulder and said, "You should worry about yourself for now. It seems you''re gonna be in trouble."

    Xiang Wai waved her hand offhandedly, "I have always loved troubles.. There is no trouble I can''t get through."

 Chapter 372 - Drop Of Water

    "Yeah, Major! You should worry about yourself for now. She even seemed to steal your boyfriend!"

    Xiang Wai frowned at that, "Captain Zhai is not my boyfriend."

    "Even if he is just an ex, he actually ignored you for another girl. Shouldn''t you be mad?"

    "Do I look that petty to you?" snorted Xiang Wai and walked away.

    Of course, she won''t let anyone else see that she was mad at Zhai Yanjun. She wanted to beat him up into a pulp for ignoring her. Not because he ignored her for Raelle but simply because he ignored her presence. She had always hated it when people ignored her. How could she let her ex-boyfriend go who actually knew how much she hated being ignored?

    He was simply looking for death!

    Yes, she was just that self-centered. And she was quite aware of that as well.

    Meanwhile, when Raelle walked out, she found Cloe pacing back and forth outside the door. Seeing Raelle, she rushed up, "Chief!"

    "What are you doing here?" asked Raelle.

    "We were still on the call when I heard amotion. When the call disconnected, I tried to figure out what was going on," Cloe gave her the detail of what went down and how she got here.

    "Did you ask someone to get me out of here?" asked Raelle.

    "How can I let you stay inside?" retorted Cloe. "Besides, you have donated so much money, everyone. It''s the least they can do for you in return."

    "Why do I feel like you''re more offended than me right now?"

    "I am!" said Cloe. "I am very offended right now. How can they treat you like a criminal?"

    "I barely spent any time here," said Raelle.

    "Not eptable!" was Cloe''s response. She took deep breaths and realized something, "Chief, why do I feel like you''re actually enjoying this?"

    "Well, I wouldn''t say I''m enjoying it but..." Raelle looked over in the direction where Xiang Wai came out from and added, "It''s really interesting."

    "Interesting?" repeated Cloe and scratched her head. She was quite familiar with what kind of taste her boss had. Since she said something was ''interesting'' around here, it only meant trouble! And surprisingly, she definitely won''t be a part of that trouble.

    "Cloe, if someone wrongs me, what happens to that person?"

    Cloe didn''t even have to think as she replied, "Miss MJ is gonna have someone''s head on a tter again?"

    "Let''s see if she really does that this time around," said Raelle.

    "She definitely will," answered Cloe.

    "Even if the other person is my elder sister?"

    Cloe''s eyes widened when she heard that. "You... Chief... What... What the hell?"

    Raelle didn''t pay attention to her as she said, "As I said, it''d be interesting to see how Yanyan handles this one."

    "Saozi!" Raelle turned her head and looked at Zhai Yanjun who came running. "It seems to ask my grandfather for a favor was worth it. You''re out. Thank goodness or Xian would kill me!"

    "Your maternal grandfather is in politics?" asked Raelle. Zhai Yanjun nodded his head. "You didn''t have to ask for a favor. I have my ways to get out."

    "That won''t do, Saozi! At the end of the day, you''re my Saozi. Even if I know you''ll be alright on your own, I still have to do what I can," responded Zhai Yanjun.

    "Your ex-girlfriend is fierce,"mented Raelle.

    Zhai Yanjun coughed at herment, "How did you...?" He shook his head, "Right, Xian said your perception is scary. I should have believed him."

    "What are you saying? Chief is scary even as a person," Cloe couldn''t help saying from the side. As Raelle turned to look at her, Cloe chuckled at said, "Sorry! I didn''t mean it."

    "Yes, you did," was all that Raelle said to her. Then she turned to Zhai Yanjun and said, "Thank you for help!"

    Zhai Yanjun smiled foolishly as he waved his hands, "Oh, no! Don''t say that. I didn''t do anything. You didn''t even need my help. If anything, my help was like a drop of water in an ocean. Really insignificant."

    "We should never devalue a drop of water," said Raelle. "Some people have only that much of offer."

    Zhai Yanjun was stunned by her words and suddenly smiled softly at her as he nodded his head. "You''re right."

    "Wife!"

    Raelle paused when she heard that familiar voice and slowly turned around. She kept blinking at Shui Xian who stood there along with Soren. Shui Xian ran over and hugged her tightly, "Thank God, you''re okay!"

    Soren also stepped up and said, "I really apologize, President Raelle! If I knew we''d get caught up in this mess, I''d have never asked you toe to the clubhouse for the meeting."

    Shui Xian red at Soren, "This is truly all your fault! Because of you, my wife had to suffer!"

    Raelle patted Shui Xian''s back as she said, "I didn''t suffer at all. You can stop assuming things." She looked at Soren and Shui Xian for a minute before saying, "Seeing how you both are here, that means you both also asked for help to get me out of here. I really am popr."

    Shui Xian ced his arm around her, "Wifey, did you just realize that you''re popr?"

    "Not really," answered Raelle.

    "How about I take you out on a meal to show how sorry I am?" suggested Soren.

    "You better go and spend that time with your kids," retorted Shui Xian.

    "Yeah. Don''t try to act like a lightbulb," added Zhai Yanjun. "You''re clearly not weed."

    "Neither are you," said Shui Xian.

    Zhai Yanjun raised his arms in defense, "I''m pretty self-aware, Xian!"

    "Good for you!"

    "Since you''re okay now, I should get back," said Soren. "Let''s reschedule the meeting."

    Raelle nodded her head and said goodbye to Soren.

    "I should also get back to my job," Zhai Yanjun also spoke up. "Saozi, I''ll see you on the weekend!"

    Shui Xian shooed him away and tucked Raelle''s hair behind her ear as he walked close to her. When he suddenly got the call from Cloe, he was truly taken aback. Even if he knew that Raelle was taken by the Special Forces, he was scared for a moment.

    Perhaps, it was the aftereffect of what he just learnedst night but for a moment, he was truly very scared.

 Chapter 373 - Shoot My Heart

    Zhai Yanjun was happily walking back to his unit when Xiang Wai blocked his way. He took a step to the right to avoid and she followed to block him. He took a step left and she again followed suit.

    "What?"

    Seeing his exasperated look, Xiang Wai was unbothered, "That girl... How do you know her?"

    "What does that have to do with you?" Zhai Yanjun shot back.

    "I am asking nicely," said Xiang Wai. "Can''t you answer like a nice person?"

    "Guess what?" Zhai Yanjun stepped closer to her and shouted, "I am not a nice person anymore!"

    Xiang Wai rubbed her ear as she red at him, "Did you lose your brain screws somewhere?"

    "Why? Are you gonna offer me yours?"

    Xiang Wai raised her brows at him, "What has gotten into you? I have only been gone for a year, why do you look like an entirely different person?"

    "I have no obligation to answer you," said Zhai Yanjun.

    "You''re really not gonna answer my question?"

    "No," was his firm response.

    "Captain Zhai, you''re actually going against your superior?"

    Zhai Yanjun rolled his eyes, "Even though I''m a rank lower than you, that doesn''t mean you can order me around. You''re in Special Forces. Stay away from my squadron!"

    As he was about to walk away, she held his arm and asked, "Who is that man beside her?"

    "Her husband!"

    "What? Husband?" repeated Xiang Wai. "Isn''t she too young to be married?"

    "No," replied Zhai Yanjun. "It''s you and I who are too old to get married."

    "Talk about yourself," she said. "I''m definitely not old."

    "We are the same age," he reminded her.

    "Still, I''m not old," she was still insisting on her point.

    "Good luck being young then," he said with a fake smile and walked away.

    Xiang Wai was left alone looking at the back of Raelle leaving with Shui Xian. "She is already married. What a surprise!" Earlier, she had felt a deja vu feeling when she looked at Raelle''s eyes but she didn''t dwell on that feeling. Now that she thought back, she understood why she felt that deja vu. "She has the same eyes as dad and Ge. How surprising!"

    On the other hand, Raelle got into Shui Xian''s car while she let Cloe drive Anna and Caleb back. As she was about to wear her seatbelt, her arm was held by Shui Xian as he pulled her and hug her tightly.

    "What''s up?" Raelle asked.

    "Nothing, I just wanted to hug you," he answered.

    "You''ve been doing it since this morning," said Raelle.

    "So what? I am just looking for some hugs from my wife, is something wrong with that?"

    "I didn''t say that." She patted his back gently and added, "Anyway, thank you!"

    "There is no need for thanks in our rtionship," he told her. "You''re my wife. It''s my responsibility to protect you. Don''t be so formal now."

    "I know that," said Raelle. "Do you think I said thank you for your help? No way! That''s what you''re supposed to do as my husband. There was nothing out of the ordinary about what you did."

    Shui Xian pulled back a little and looked at her face while nodding, "Indeed, I did nothing out of the ordinary." He caressed her face as he asked, "Then what''s that thank you for?"

    "Thanks foring here," she told him. "I wasn''t expecting that. But it felt good to see you there."

    Shui Xian tapped her nose saying, "That was also nothing out of the ordinary. I should always be there for my wife."

    Raelle settled down on her seat and fastened the seatbelt as she told him, "From this incident, I havee to realize something."

    "Oh, what is that?"

    "It''s that I''m not alone," she answered. "If I ever need help, there are people who are willing to offer me a hand."

    Shui Xian stretched his hand to rub her head as he said, "I don''t know about the rest, but I''m always here."

    Raelle hummed in reply.

    "Shall we go home now?"

    "Home?" Raelle looked at the time. "It''s still working hours though."

    "You still want to go back to work after all that fiasco?" questioned Shui Xian.

    "Time is money, let''s cash it a little while we can," she responded. "Now, drop me off at the office and go to work. There is no need to take this incident so seriously."

    "Baby, can you please take something seriously in life?"

    "Don''t I take you seriously?" retorted Raelle. "Isn''t that enough?"

    Shui Xian was lost for words because of her words. What the hell? Howe he felt like her flirting skills were upgrading? When did it happen? How did it happen? And why was he so weak against it?

    "Did you eat anything?" asked Shui Xian. "How about we have something to eat first?"

    "Don''t stall for time," said Raelle. "It won''t change the ending."

    Shui Xian tsked at that, "What a shame!"

    "If you continued to act like this, I''m gonna feel like I''m one of those seductress concubines from the Imperial Harem who made the Emperor forget about the morning court."

    Shui Xian burst outughing, "I think it should be the other way around. You be the Empress and I''m the male concubine trying to seduce you to stay in bed all day and indulge me."

    "Oh, how pitiful," said Raelle ndly.

    Shui Xian parked the car outside her office building and pinched her nose, "You''re really my Empress and I really want you to forget about the world for me."

    "It''s a pity but my memory is too good," responded Raelle. "I can''t forget about the world. But..." She kissed his lips and whispered against his lips, "I can definitely do something about indulging you."

    As Raelle opened the door of the car to leave, Shui Xian ced his hand over his heart as he said, "Don''t shoot my heart!" He rolled down the windowpane and called out, "Raelle!" She turned her head to look at him, he ced two fingers on his lips and gave her a flying kiss as he shouted, "I love you!"

    "Go away already!" responded Raelle before walking inside the office building without looking back at him.

 Chapter 374 - Hot & Steamy

    "Too sweet for my taste," was Cloe''sment when she coincidentally ended up hearing Shui Xian''s promation of love.

    "Don''t you have a boyfriend already?"

    Cloe looked back at Anna as she questioned, "What does that have to do with this situation?"

    "I mean you shouldn''t be feeling so sour now that you have a boyfriend of your own. You can also act this sweet with him."

    Cloe made a face as she snorted, "I don''t like sweet love. For me, it has to be a bit hot and steamy with some added spices here and there. Chief and Master Xian are too sweet for my taste."

    Anna gave her a look, "You really have some hardcore interests."

    Cloeughed out happily before saying, "Oh, by the way, let me correct you. I don''t have a boyfriend. We are just taking it slow."

    Anna patted her shoulder, "You want hot and steamy romance and here you''re moving at the speed of a tortoise?"

    Cloe cleared her throat, "At least, I have someone. What about you?"

    "Childish," was all that Anna replied with.

    Cloe also thought she was acting childish right now. What was the point of having this conversation? Whether she wanted to take a slow pace or a fast one, did it really matter? Especially since her blind date seemed to be too much of a gentleman. Thinking about Cui Xukun, Cloe shook her head.

    Bzzzzz...

    Cloe felt her phone vibrating in her pants pocket. She rummaged it out and looked at the caller id with raised brows. And as soon as she answered she said, "Are you a worm in my stomach?"

    Cui Xukun paused when he heard that question from her. "Why? Were you thinking about me and I called right at that time?"

    Cloe''s eyes widened when she realized that she gave herself away. "No! Who said that? Don''t assume things on your own."

    Cui Xukun chuckled silently at her reaction.

    "Anyways, why are you calling me today? Am I getting another box of choctes?"

    "No," replied Cui Xukun. "I was wondering if you have some time tonight?"

    "Tonight?" asked Cloe as she seriously thought about it. "It depends on what you have in mind."

    "There is this movie premiere and I have tickets for it," he told Cloe carefully. He was trying hard not to sound too eager but his excitement was clearly too much to hide.

    "What kind of a movie is it?" questioned Cloe.

    "Romance," he answered.

    "Time?" she asked.

    "Does that mean you agree?"

    "Well, I have nothing else to do," she tried to seem nonchnt about it.

    "Okay! Then I''ll see you tonight," said Cui Xukun and hung up the phone.

    But even after he had hung up, he was still holding the phone tightly in his hand. The goofy smile on his face showed what he was going through.

    "Mama, Uncle Kun isughing like a fool!"

    Cui Xukun''s elder sister, Cui Xuqing looked up from the case she was studying, and seeing her brother''s face, she shook her head. "Let your Uncle be," she said to her son. "He was born a fool."

    Cui Xukun''s lips twitched when he heard his sister saying that about him. Remembering something, he jumped to his feet and ran over to his sister''s side. As he tried to take the premiere tickets from the table, he said, "Jiejie, thanks for the tickets."

    He had yet to take the tickets when Cui Xuqing ced her hand over his to stop him, "What tickets? Didn''t you tell me you don''t like going to cinemas?"

    "Jie, I was just joking with you," he said.

    Cui Xuqing smiled at her brother which didn''t look like a smile as she said, "But I''m not joking though. It''s my client who offered me the VIP tickets for sessfully dealing with his contract with hispany."

    "But you clearly offered these tickets to me," he argued.

    "And you clearly said you don''t want to go," she reminded him.

    "Jieeeee!"

    "Don''t whine!" She smacked the file on his head. "This is why you should never be hasty. Idiot!" She ced the tickets in his hand but didn''t let go just yet as she added, "Before I give this to you, let me ask you something."

    "What is it?"

    "You really like her that much?"

    Cui Xukun smiled to himself, "I do."

    "Maybe you''re mistaking your feelings," she said seriously.

    "If it had just been a crush, all those feelings wouldn''t havee rushing back when I saw her again."

    Cui Xuqing rubbed his head, "Then all the best!"

    "Thanks, Jie!" Cui Xukun was instantly energized as he looked at his sister and made a fist saying, "I''ll do my best! Fighting!"

    "Please, refrain from acting like a fool in front of her."

    "I''m no fool!"

    "When you''re not working, you are no better than a fool."

    Cui Xukun made a face at his sister and then held her hand to pull her up.

    "Stop pulling me!"

    "No, can''t do. You have toe with me and tell me what should I wear tonight?"

    "You must be kidding me right now."

    Cui Xukun shook his head, "I''m not."

    "And then you say you''re not a fool. Go away and wear whatever you want. Don''t disturb me. I have to study this case. Leave me alone."

    "Uncle Kun!"

    Cui Xukun looked at the little girl who came to hold his hand and smiled at him sweetly, "I''ll choose your clothes for you."

    Cui Xukun smiled lovingly at his niece, "Our Xena is so sweet. The best in the world."

    The little girl giggled at thepliment.

    Cui Xukun gave his sister a final look, "I wonder how did a devil-like you gave birth to such an angel."

    "Maybe Heaven mixed it up," retorted Cui Xuqing. "Even I can''t believe she is my own daughter."

    Cui Xukun shook his head at his sister and picked up his adorable niece in his arms, "You, my cute angel,e with me. You help Uncle and Uncle is gonna give you your favorite cake."

    "We can''t share it with Sammy," said Xena with a pout.

    "We definitely won''t share," Cui Xukun agreed without any hesitation.

 Chapter 375 - So Touching

    *Knock! Knock!*

    Twisting the doorknob, Hyson pushed the door and craned his neck inside as he waved, "Hi, Lieutenant!"

    Xiang Weimin was rather taken aback when he saw Hyson showing up in his room. Although he remembered that Hyson said he''de again to see him, to be honest, Xiang Weimin didn''t really take it seriously.

    After all, he believed Hyson was a busy person. Not only that, they weren''t even that close. They only met twice. But he clearly wasn''t familiar with Hyson''s way of doing things.

    Hyson rushed inside with an insted food box in his hand. "Are you that touched, Lieutenant? You can''t find words to express how happy you are to see me here?" Hyson didn''t mind Xiang Weimin''s surprised look. It really amused him a lot. "But you can take it easy. I''m just this kind of person. Wherever I go, people are touched."

    Xiang Weiminughed at Hyson''s obvious bragging. "It''s really a surprise to see you here."

    "I know," said Hyson as he set up the table for him and ced the food box on it while telling him, "But as I said, don''t be so touched. I told you I''lle, so I have toe, no? A person is nothing without his integrity. If I won''t even value my own words, how will others do?"

    Xiang Weimin just silently listened to him. He didn''t know whether Hyson ever noticed it himself that he often spoke too profoundly in his own yful way.

    "Did you have lunch?" Hyson questioned Xiang Weimin while opening the food box. "Even if you did, you should still eat what I got you. Trust me, you''ll thank meter." He put each dish on the table and even added his personalments, "First, try this soup. It is super delicious. It''s like vors are having a party in your mouth. Just too good! These vegetables are also good for you. It''ll provide with all the right nutrients."

    Xiang Weimin looked at the variety of food ced before him.

    "You didn''t have to bring all this," said Xiang Weimin. "You could have juste empty-handed."

    "Again, don''t be so touched," Hyson repeated himself. "I was indeeding empty-handed but when I was about to leave, my mum asked where I am going and I told her that I''m going to the hospital to see a friend who is a patient there and she was mad at me for not telling her sooner. And well, one thing led to another and I ended up with this lunch for you."

    Xiang Weimin felt like someone had set Hyson to 2x speed since he was talking too fast today.

    "As a huge fan of good food, my suggestion to you is to drink this soup. My Yanyan has outdone herself with this soup. You might even want to swallow your tongue with it."

    Unknowingly, a smile had crept up on Xiang Weimin''s lips as he continued to listen to Hyson''s chatter and didn''t even find it annoying. The hospital was too quiet as always. And Xiang Weimin''s life had also been too quiet. The only loudness in his life came from the fighter jets.

    But he had no one in his life who loved to talk as much as Hyson. Just looking at Hyson one would know just how much he loved to talk.

    "Why aren''t you eating?" asked Hyson when he noticed that Xiang Weimin was staring at himself intently without moving.

    Xiang Weimin snapped out of his thoughts and smiled at Hyson, "Did you eat?"

    Hyson nodded his head like a chicken pecking on grains. "It''s impossible that gorgeousdies of my family would allow me to walk out of the house without feeding me. Their favorite job is to feed me."

    "Aren''t you busy?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "Nah! I''m so free that I might start rusting soon enough," was Hyson''s response.

    Xiang Weimin chuckled at Hyson''s words, "You say all sorts of things eh?"

    "I also do all sorts of things, you know," added Hyson. "I''m just that kind of a person." Heughed at his own words and went on, "On a serious note, you should eat well. This is also a part of the treatment. If you won''t eat well, how will you get better?"

    "Food is a part of treatment?" questioned Xiang Weimin curiously.

    "Yes!" said Hyson. "Food is therapy. It''s the mood maker. Food is that part of our life that can fit in every situation. You''re feeling sad, eat ice cream. Feeling happy? Eat ice cream! Even if there is no reason, just eat ice cream! Why? Because ice cream doesn''t need an excuse!"

    "Do you want to eat ice cream?"

    "I do," answered Hyson looking pitiful. "I really do. But I am not allowed to eat any for now. Such a heartbreaking love story it is... Me and my ice cream!"

    Xiang Weiminughed heartily at Hyson''s words. He picked up a spoon and tasted the soup. His eyes widened a little as he nodded, "It seems you were not exaggerating when you said it''s good."

    "Isn''t it?" Hyson pped happily. "Oh, wait! What do you mean by exaggeration? I never exaggerate when ites to food!"

    "Yes, of course, you don''t!" agreed Xiang Weimin but he looked too perfunctory. "Uncle, do you want to try some?"

    Hyson frowned at his question and turned around to see what Xiang Weimin was looking at. And when he saw a man sitting there sipping on tea, he was taken aback a little.

    "How long he had been there?"

    "Since you came," answered Xiang Weimin with a big smile on his face. He was amused by Hyson''s facial expressions that seemed to say that Hyson was currently questioning his life.

    But even Xiang Weimin was really too surprised that Hyson didn''t even notice someone else''s presence in the room.. Since he came, he had rushed to his bedside. How would he have time to see if anyone else was there or not?

 Chapter 376 - Sunshine

    Hyson scratched the back of his head when he noticed the other man and waved at him, "Hi! I didn''t see you there."

    Zhai Kuijun stared at Hyson for a long while intently. He never thought his presence was socking that someone would be able to ignore him so tantly. But it seemed he was wrong. This young man really didn''t realize that he had been sitting here all along.

    "Uncle, this is Yue Fai," introduced Xiang Weimin. "And Fai, that''s Yanjun''s father, Zhai Kuijun."

    "Yue Fai?" repeated Zhai Kuijun softly. Something came to the mind that made him smile to himself.

    "Uncle, Fai is the one who saved my life," Xiang Weimin told Zhai Kuijun."Ah!" Zhai Kuijun stood up and walked over to Hyson. "Young man, we owe you big."

    "I didn''t save him," answered Hyson. "It just happened. Really! No big deal at all."

    "How about you sit down for some tea with me while Weimin is having lunch?" suggested Zhai Kuijun.

    "Okay," agreed Hyson since he had no problem with it.

    Zhai Kuijun poured him a cup of tea as he spoke, "I know you young people don''t really enjoy tea that much."

    "I am not that particr about things in life," said Hyson nonchntly. "It''s just tea." He took a cup and smelled it with his eyes closed, taking a sip he said, "Oh, this is West Lake Longjing. Good tea. Really good tea."

    Zhai Kuijun''s brows raised up slightly, "You even recognized the tea. It seems you really enjoy it."

    "Not really," answered Hyson truthfully. "Opa loves tea. I just like to give him somepany."

    Zhai Kuijun nodded his head. His eyes were still stuck to Hyson''s face. It was difficult to exin what was on his mind but for some reason, looking at Hyson gave him a very familiar feeling. But he was certain that they have never met before this day. And that''s what made it even moreplicated to him. Why did he find this young man so familiar?

    And exactly what kind of familiarity was it that he felt?

    "You''re Jun''s friend?" asked Zhai Kuijun.

    Hyson shook his head honestly, "Nope. I just met him because of my best friend."

    "Oh..."

    "And since he is Xian Ge''s friend, we can be considered acquaintances," added Hyson.

    "Xian?" asked Zhai Kuijun in surprise. "You know Shui Xian?"

    "Of course, I know Xian Ge," answered Hyson. "He is awesome. Who doesn''t know him? Only an idiot won''t know Master Xian." He suddenly pped his mouth when he recalled that his own best friend actually had no clue about who Master Xian was. "Oh, Lieutenant!"

    "Hm?"

    "When are you discharging?"

    "In a couple of days," said Xiang Weimin.

    "Oh, that''s good. I''m gonna join shooting probably from next week so I won''t have time to visit you again."

    "That''s okay," replied Xiang Weimin. "You don''t have to go out of your way toe and see me here."

    "I''m not doing it for you," said Hyson. "I have my own reasons."

    "Oh-okay." Xiang Weimin didn''t know what else to say.

    "Shooting?" asked Zhai Kuijun. "Are you an actor?"

    "No," replied Hyson. "I''m an idol! A singer!"

    "Is that why you''re dressed like a thief?"

    Hyson looked down at his all-ck attire. Since he wanted to decrease the chances of being recognized, he actually came out in a in ck tracksuit. He was wearing a cap and is hoodie over it. And only took off his mask and sses, after he came to the hospital room.

    "I do look suspicious like this, don''t I?"

    *Ring*

    Hyson looked at his phone and stood up, "I have to take this call. I''ll be back." With that, he walked out of the room.

    "He..." Zhai Kuijun started but couldn''t continue. In fact, he didn''t know what words he was supposed to choose to describe Hyson.

    "He is like sunshine," Xiang Weimin spoke up. "Isn''t he, Uncle?"

    Zhai Kuijun looked over at Xiang Weimin and nodded his head, "Yeah, he is like sunshine."

    "That''s why he fascinates me so much from the moment I met him," said Xiang Weimin. "You know when I met him I was almost frozen to death. But the way he looked so rxed even at that time, really surprised me. Not only that, even in that situation, he was smiling from his heart and joking around."

    "The real reason why he fascinates you so much is that he is aplete opposite of you," was Zhai Kuijun''s response. "But there is no doubt that he is indeed like sunshine. He seems like someone who knows how to draw attention to himself from the people around him."

    "He is a chatterbox," said Xiang Weimin. "It''s hard to believe that he is a celebrity. And a very famous one at that too."

    "You and Jun both should spend more time around him," suggested Zhai Kuijun. "That might help in getting rid of the depressing aura you both always have around you."

    "We are not that depressing," argued Xiang Weimin.

    Zhai Kuijun snickered at him. "Weimin, what makes you happy?"

    "My happiest moments are when I am flying in the sky," answered Xiang Weimin without even thinking.

    "Ask this question to your new friend, his answer will surprise you."

    Xiang Weimin frowned at him but he still kept his words in mind. He was actually suddenly curious to hear an answer from Hyson. So, when Hyson came back, he did ask him.

    "You''re asking me what makes me happy?" Hyson repeated his question. "I''m pretty happy right now."

    "Why?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    Hyson frowned at that question. "Why? Do I need to have a reason to be happy? Isn''t it enough that I''m breathing?"

    Xiang Weimin''s eyes widened in surprise when he heard that.

    "Is that really enough?"

    "Of course," answered Hyson. "And the fact that I can actually feel this happiness is also another reason to be happy for. Some people are not even able to understand happiness." And he clearly was talking about Raelle when he said thatst sentence.

    "You''re too optimistic," remarked Xiang Weimin.

    Hyson shook his head, "Not really. I am just realistic.. But being realistic doesn''t mean I need to find reasons to be happy."

 Chapter 377 - Hyper

    Hyson came back home before dinner. He was still his happy-go-lucky self as he whistled and enjoyed on his own.

    "What took you so long?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "I was busying making someone realize that life is full of colors," answered Hyson.

    "Aiyo! Our Fai is really awesome!"

    "Yanyan, I know I lovepliments but you don''t have to force yourself."

    Mu Chenyanughed at that.

    "Where is mum?"

    "Your mum''s inspiration is bursting out," responded Mu Chenyanzily.

    "Where is Opa?"

    "He is resting inside."

    Hyson thought about it for a moment before deciding, "I''m gonna climb the wall."

    "Huh?"

    "Because I want to meet Ellie," he borated his intention.

    "Oh!"

    "If I climb the wall, I won''t have to go around."

    Mu Chenyan rubbed his head, "Don''t try anything funny. If you''re gonna climb the wall, just be careful. Don''t get hurt."

    "I won''t!" Hyson reassured. "I''m going now!"

    He really ended up climbing over the wall to enter the Shui Manor. He ran inside the mansion and found Shui Koshing reading a book.

    "Uncle Shing, what''s up?"

    Shui Koshing looked up at Hyson and a smile was etched on his face, "Where did youe from?"

    "I am the angel that heaven has offered to this world to spread light, love, and warmth."

    "Wow!" eximed Shui Koshing. "You looked so sincere that I almost believed you." He saw something and said, "There is something on your shoulder."

    Hyson looked at his shoulder and found a dry leaf. "Oh, look! My shoulders are so trustworthy that even leaves can''t let go of me now."

    "You''re extra chirpy today,"mented Shui Koshing.

    "You can just say I''m on a sugar rush," said Hyson. "Because even I feel like that right now. I have too much energy today. That''s why I came to find Raelle. Talking to her drains out people, so she is perfect to get me back to normal."

    "You say all sorts of things," Shui Koshing shook his head helplessly at Hyson. "Just say that you want to meet your best friend. What''s the point of going round and round?"

    "Where is she?"

    "In her room," answered Shui Koshing. "She just came back."

    "And Xian Ge?"

    "He must be on his way," added Shui Koshing.

    "I''m gonna go and check on Ellie."

    Shui Koshing shooed him away, "Go along!"

    Hyson ascended the stairs and went to Raelle''s room. He knocked on the door before opening it. Raelle craned her neck out of the walk-in closet to see who came and found Hyson.

    "What are you doing here?"

    "Just felt like seeing you," answered Hyson trying to sound nonchnt.

    "No lies," reminded Raelle.

    Hyson sighed out, "I had been feeling uneasy since this morning. Was everything okay with you today?"

    Raelle''s eyes were glued to Hyson''s face as she tried to read his mind. Things like these that science could never prove were extremely novel to Raelle and out of her understanding as well. It wasn''t the first time that Hyson had a feeling like this. And 99% of the time, his feeling had been right.

    Just like today...

    "I just had to make a visit to the military base as a suspect," said Raelle honestly.

    Hyson ran over to her side and held her shoulders looking her up and down, "So, my feeling wasn''t wrong? Are you okay? Did something happen? What really happened?"

    "I''m fine," replied Raelle. "The Special Forces team had been tracking a drug syndicate for a year. They had the information that the syndicate had a new drug that they smuggled into the country. If it spread, the consequences would have been dire. To reach the distribution channels, a representative was sent to the Ecstasy Clubhouse. I was just at the wrong ce at the wrong time."

    "Then did they find what they were looking for?"

    Raelle nodded her head, "It seems they did catch someone but I don''t know any other detail. It''s a confidential matter."

    "As long as you''re okay, I don''t give a damn about anything else," Hyson said out his inner thoughts. He never considered himself to be a good person. He wasn''t that kind and considerate either.

    Raelle went back inside the walk-in closet and Hyson followed behind her like a tail.

    "What?"

    "Do you know whom I met today?"

    "Who?"

    "I met Zhai Yanjun''s father."

    Raelle stopped and looked at him, "Oh? Where?"

    "When I went to see Xiang Weimin. He was also there." He took a pause and added, "It''s hard to believe that he is actually Zhai Yanjun''s father."

    "Why?"

    "I don''t know," Hyson shrugged his shoulders. "Their personalities arepletely different."

    "Yanjun also came running to help me when he found out that I was at the military base."

    "Really?" asked Hyson.

    "Yeah."

    "Hmmm... It seems I''ll have to be nice to him from now on," said Hyson.

    "Why? You weren''t nning on being nice?"

    "I was already pretty nice to him."

    "Yes, but you''re still trying to keep your distance from him somewhat," stated Raelle matter-of-factly.

    She knew Hyson won''t be able to refute her words.

    "Oh, do you want to guess whom I met at the Base?"

    "Huh?" Hyson raised his brows at her. "You met someone other than Yanjun?"

    Raelle nodded her head.

    "Who?"

    "Major Xiang Wai."

    "What a day you had!" Hyson picturized the whole scene of two sisters standing opposite each other. "This scene is too exciting. Why wasn''t I there? How am I gonna live with this regret now?"

    "Are you done?"

    Hyson straightened up and nodded, "Yes, sir!" He ran his hand through the clothes hanging in the closet and frowned, "Why is Xian Ge''s wardrobe so boring?"

    "You think so?"

    Hyson nodded.

    "I''ve been feeling like something was wrong but I couldn''t understand what. Now, that you have mentioned it, it seems he really has boring clothes."

    "Tsk. Tsk. Tsk." Hyson tsked at her as he gave her a pointed look. "What kind of a wife are you? Look at your clothes and then look at your husband''s. Can you see the difference?"

    "No one will call you a mute if you won''t talk for a minute."

 Chapter 378 - Lone Wolf

    "Hubby, when do you have time? Let''s go shopping!"

    These were the words Shui Xian heard when he entered his room. He was surprised by this sudden proposal. He looked at Raelle''s serious face and then he looked at Hyson who stood behind her while nodding his head up and down.

    "Shopping?" repeated Shui Xian in confusion.

    "I don''t like your clothes," said Raelle without hiding anything.

    "Too boring!" Hyson added. "Also, so dull!"

    Raelle nodded her head in agreement, "All your work clothes have fine workmanship but your loungewear and casual clothes are dull!" She took a pause and added, "Don''t like."

    Shui Xian smiled at the both of them, "Okay. Let''s go shopping. All my casual clothes are casually bought. I hardly spent any time at home before so I didn''t need to care about such things. But now, since my wife wants to reorganize my wardrobe, I''m all up for it."

    "Then when are we going?"

    "Sunday?"

    "Why not Saturday?"

    Hyson also repeated Raelle''s question, "Yeah, why not Saturday?"

    Shui Xian found them talking one by one really funny. He rubbed Hyson''s head saying, "Because Saturday I have booked for this little brother of mine."

    Hyson looked at Shui Xian, "Xian Ge, you mean me?"

    "Do I have another little brother?"

    Hyson grinned like a fool and gave Raelle a look, "See that? Saturday is mine!" He turned back to Shui Xian, "Xian Ge, what are we doing on Saturday?"

    Shui Xian had a thoughtful look on his face, "Something fun. But I''ll keep that a secret for now."

    "What secret? Secrets are not good in rtionships. Secrets breeds misunderstanding and misunderstandings cause rifts. And once there is a rift, the rtionship can''t be saved." He tugged at Shui Xian''s shirt, "So, let''s not keep secrets, eh?"

    Shui Xian burst outughing, "Although I agree with what you said, I''m still gonna keep this secret for now."

    "How am I gonna wait for Saturday then?" Hyson was in a dilemma now. It was truly difficult to wait for so long. "Ellie, do you know about it?"

    "I know as much as you do," was Raelle''s response.

    Shui Xian left these two friends and went to change his clothes. He didn''t feel like staying between them.

    After Hyson was done with his chatter, he finally pulled Raelle over and whispered, "Xian Ge''s condition doesn''t look good. What happened?"

    "Maybe it has to do with me," was Raelle answer.

    "Maybe?"

    Raelle nodded and told him, "Isn''t it because of you that he became curious about my kidnapping?"

    "He is always curious about you, Ellie," was Hyson''s response. "It''s just that he either doesn''t know what to ask or he is scared to hurt you." He took a pause and added, "Then, did you tell him?"

    "I did," she exined in detail to Hyson. "Then he started trembling so I didn''t continue."

    "No wonder he looks so lost," muttered Hyson.

    "I didn''t think it''d affect him so much," said Raelle truthfully. "It doesn''t even affect me."

    "You are you. We, human beings can''t possibly be as perfect as a machine like you," retorted Hyson. "To us humans, it hurts. Even if it''s in the past, it hurts. Even if we didn''t go through that situation, we can empathize."

    "Anything else?"

    Hyson made a face at her and suddenly recalled, "Ah! I forgot to tell you, Xian Ge is my new boss."

    "What?"

    "He bought thepany," answered Hyson. "And I have a new manager as well."

    "Good for you," said Raelle.

    "You don''t have anything else to say?"

    "Nope."

    Shui Xian came out to find Raelle and Hyson talking in a whisper.

    "Fai, you''re staying for dinner?"

    "Yeah," said Hyson. "I''m here to freeload."

    "Then make sure to eat a lot," said Shui Xian as they went downstairs for dinner.

    "I feel like the whole dinner scene is shining tonight,"mented Shui Koshing.

    "Isn''t it because a star is here?"

    Raelle looked nkly at Hyson, "That''s enough."

    Hyson grumbled under his breath, "And herees the dark clouds jealous of the brightest star of the night."

    Shui Koshing chuckled, "But seriously, it''s really different to have Fai here. The whole ambiance changes when you are here."

    "Uncle Shing, my mum says I was born to light up the world," stated Hyson proudly. "I was the light she needed in her life and I also became a light in Ellie''s life. But she won''t ept that." He had a defeated look on his face as he went on, "The problem is that Ellie is like an eclipse. No matter how bright my light is, it can''t brighten her up."

    Raelle picked up the dumpling and shoved it into his mouth, "Eat quietly or scram already!"

    Hyson chewed on the dumpling andined, "You''re a very difficult person."

    "Not like you just came to that realization."

    "Uncle Shing, what are you reading these days?" Since he wasn''t allowed to talk to Raelle, he made Shui Koshing his target. Meanwhile, he also picked up shrimps and peeled them carefully. "I think Uncle, you should try reading light novels."

    "Aren''t those for youngsters? What am I gonna do reading those novels?"

    "Aiyah, Uncle! Light novels are feel good. It''ll help in keeping you happy."

    "Why don''t you suggest something then?"

    Hyson had just opened his mouth to say something when he was interrupted by Raelle, "Have you ever finished the novels you started?"

    Hyson put the bowl of peeled shrimps in front of her as he said, "It''s because I don''t have that reading worm in my body. I''m impatient."

    "Then don''t suggest B¨¤ to try it out either."

    "Fine, I won''t do it," agreed Hyson. "Then Uncle Shing, how about dating someone?"

    Shui Koshing almost choked on his food and looked at Hyson, "What?"

    "What? Didn''t I say it before? You should date."

    "I don''t want to," Shui Koshing answered.

    "Why are all these elders so stubborn?" Hyson shook his head. "Mum said no, Yanyan said no, you''re saying no. Even Opa said no."

    "You actually asked grandfather to go on a date?" asked Shui Xian.

    "I did," said Hyson. "But he didn''t agree." He sighed like an old man saying, "These elders say kids don''t listen to them these days. But what do they have to say about themselves? Why are they so stubborn and difficult? Am I asking for so much? It''s just a date!"

    "Why don''t you find yourself a match instead of finding for them?" suggested Shui Xian.

    "I''m a lone wolf.. I''m not looking for a match."

 Chapter 379 - I Need A Smile

    Even after freeloading dinner, Hyson didn''t seem like he nned on leaving anytime soon. He felt no mental burden over the fact that his best friend was now married. Since he wanted to stay, he''d just stay. No one could stop him. Perhaps not even Raelle herself could stop him and that''s why Hyson was following Raelle around like her little tail.

    "Everything okay with him?" asked Shui Koshing to his son.

    Shui Xian moved his eyes away from Raelle and Hyson and answered his father, "Doesn''t look like it. He must have something on his mind to act like this right now."

    Shui Koshing patted his son''s shoulder, "Then let him be." He took a pause and added, "And make sure to rest well. No matter what is going on with you, it''s not worth it to ignore your health."

    Shui Xian lowered his head, "You noticed?"

    "I''m your father," said Shui Koshing. "Although I''m old, I ain''t blind!"

    Shui Xian smiled and nodded his head, "I''ll be fine soon."

    "I hope so," replied Shui Koshing.

    After having this small conversation with his father, Shui Xian went upstairs and found Raelle and Hysonzing around in the lounge. Okay, it''d be better to say that only Hyson waszing around while Raelle turned on the tv and eventually settled for watching the news.

    Meanwhile, Hyson had ced his head on Raelle''s shoulder as he yed a game on his phone. The atmosphere around them was sofortable and natural that even Shui Xian found it difficult to interrupt them. That''s why he just found himself a seat and scroll around his iPad.

    When Hyson couldn''t clear the level, he''d puff up his cheeks adorably. His expressions were a sight to behold while he just yed a game on his phone. One might even think he was going through an internal conflict or something.

    "Argh!" He got frustrated and threw the phone to Raelle, "Help me clear the level. I don''t have the patience anymore!"

    Raelle silently took the phone and concentrated on the game he was ying while he took the remote and changed the channel. Since he was not the kind of person to care enough about what was going around the world, he''d just shuffle through it.

    Shui Xian raised his eyes to nce at Hyson when he noticed that Hyson actually stopped shuffling the channels and was currently watching cartoons. He didn''t even know whether he was supposed to find it surprising or not. But somehow, he just couldn''t bring himself to be surprised.

    Hyson was giggling to himself as he enjoyed the cartoons.

    Raelle knocked the phone on his head gently and said, "It''s cleared. It was too easy. Don''t give this to me again. You know I don''t like easy things."

    "Right?" snorted Hyson. "How can a difficult person like you can actually like something easy? That''d be ironic." Hyson checked and confirmed that she cleared the level and smiled happily. He extended his arm out as his phone''s front camera faced him. Putting his other hand over Raelle''s shoulder, he told her, "Now, look here! Let''s click a photo to remember that you helped me with my game."

    Raelle looked towards the camera and Hyson''s lips twitched.

    "We are not going to war," said Hyson. "Give me a smile. I need a smile!"

    Raelle''s lips slowly stretched into an arc as big as she had practiced for hours in front of a mirror. In other words, it was so fake that even an idiot could see it.

    "I told you to smile, not scare me!" Hyson ced his hand over his heart saying, "I have a weak heart."

    Raelle tilted her head slightly to face him and that''s exactly when Hyson clicked the photo. He looked at his masterpiece saying, "Look at it. Doesn''t it seem like you''re a big bad wolf bullying a weak littlemb like me?"

    Raelle looked at the picture before saying, "Now that I see it, I suddenly feel like having somemb skewers."

    Hyson hugged a cushion and leaned back, "Hold it there! I don''t taste good."

    "How would we know that unless we try it?" said Raelle seriously.

    Hyson shook his head like a rattle, "No, I''m serious. I really don''t taste good."

    "Are you sure it''s my wife who is bullying you and not the other way around?" came Shui Xian''s voice. Hyson looked over at Shui Xian and raised his brows inquisitively at him. "It''s definitely you who is bullying my wife."

    Hyson tsked at that, "Xian Ge, stop looking at everything through your pink-tinted sses. I know I''m quite capable there is no doubt about that. But the truth is still the truth. I still am not capable enough to bully Raelle Xiang. Even if it seems like it." Then he turned back to his best friend, "Am I right, Ellie? Or am I right?"

    "Whatever makes you happy," was Raelle''s response.

    "Oh, don''t be like that now," pouted Hyson.

    "Like what?" she asked.

    "Like that!"

    "Like what?"

    "Like you''re acting just now."

    "And how was I acting just now?"

    "Hahahaha!" Shui Xian couldn''t help it anymore and burst outughing at this pair of best friends. "You both together in one ce are truly abination worth seeing."

    Hyson hugged Raelle''s neck saying, "Isn''t that right? We just make that awesome pair."

    "That''s true," agreed Shui Xian wholeheartedly.

    Raelle ced her hand against Hyson''s face and pushed him away, "Go away already."

    Hyson gasped at her, "Are you kicking me out?"

    "Why? Can''t I?"

    Hyson pointed at her, "No, you can''t!"

    And then the debate began over why Raelle wasn''t allowed to kick out her one and only pitiful best friend and how she''ll never be able to find as an understanding a best friend as Hyson. So, she should learn to cherish him a little more. Shui Xian was having difficulty keeping his face straight.. All this time, his lips were stretched into a big arc that was hard to hide.

 Chapter 380 - Robot Cat

    Watching cartoons, Hysonmented, "Ellie, you''re just like Doraemon."

    "Am I now?" questioned Raelle and looked up at the cartoons ying on the tv. She looked at that blue cat called Doraemon and tried to find out why she was like that cat?

    Hyson nodded his head vigorously, "Yes, you are."

    "Are you calling me a robot?" asked Raelle. Hyson looked at her as she continued, "Isn''t that a robotic cat?"

    Hyson facepalmed himself, "That''s not what I meant."

    "Then please do tell what you really mean."

    Hyson pulled up his legs and sat cross-legged while facing her. "It''s like this, whenever something goes wrong with Nobita, he goes to look for Doraemon."

    "That boy really likesining," Raelle came to that conclusion while watching these cartoons.

    "Nobita goes to Doraemon, not because he knows that Doraemon will be able to help him it out," exined Hyson.

    "Then?"

    "It''s because Doraemon is his spiritual pir!" stressed Hyson. "Doraemon is that existence is his life whom he knows he can depend on in any kind of situation. He knows that even if everything went wrong, Doraemon would be there for him."

    "Where are we getting with this discussion?"

    "I''m just letting you know that you''re also my spiritual pir. Although you aren''t as resourceful as Doraemon, you have your plus points as well."

    "If you want topliment me, just do it," said Raelle. "There is no need to go round and round about it."

    Hyson shook his head at her and turned his head towards the tv as he said, "Indeed, you''re pretty awesome."

    Even though Raelle didn''t like cartoons since her childhood, she still didn''t ask Hyson to change to another channel. Since he wanted to watch it, she won''t be getting in his way. In fact, as always she stayed quietly beside him. And even watched the cartoons with him as if she was absorbed into it.

    Shui Xian got up and brought some packets of chips. He offered it to both Raelle and Hyson. He also opened cans of beer and ced them before them. He was really thoughtful as he even opened the can of beer and offered it to Raelle while he took a seat on his other side this time.

    With his one arm draped over her shoulder, he fed her chips with his other hand.

    Hyson unconsciously took his favorite paprika-vored chip pack and opened it. His hand dug into the pack and thin but vorful crisps went into his mouth. He let out a content sigh, "This is delicious." Suddenly, he paused and looked at the pack of chips with an unsightly expression. "This has so many calories. I shouldn''t eat it." He tried to drop the pack of chips but then didn''t with the excuse that, "I already opened it now. Let''s just eat it. Wasting food is not good."

    "What is he doing?" asked Shui Xian in a low voice.

    "He is showing you how much of an idiot he is," answered Raelle. "Don''t mind him. He is happy in his own world. You really don''t have to give him unnecessary attention."

    "Okay," replied Shui Xian and yet he couldn''t look away from the hesitation on Hyson''s face as he continued to convince himself that only one pack of chips won''t hurt him.

    Shui Xian didn''t know how it happened but it seemed that along the way, his own attention was drawn to the tv. And just like that, three grown-up adults spent their evening watching cartoons with gusto.

    "If I had that Anywhere door, I''d have made a trip to the beach right now," said Hyson in a distressed tone.

    "Why this sudden urge to see the beach?" asked Raelle.

    "I just feel like it," replied Hyson.

    "Fai really knows how to speak up his mind,"mented Shui Xian.

    "What''s the point of hiding it in your heart?" retorted Hyson. "Things get rotten when they are left inside for too long. And humans are no different. Once we stop speaking out our minds, our thoughts end up eating us... Inside out!"

    "Fai, are you alright?" asked Shui Xian in worry. He didn''t know why he felt strange looking at Hyson like this. Although he was still his happy self, Shui Xian could tell something wrong.

    "I''m fine," replied Hyson with a toothy grin. "Sorry for taking your couple time but I just wanted to spend some time with Ellie. Sorry for intruding like this."

    Shui Xian shook his head, "That''s not what I meant. I just thought that if you have something on your mind, you can say it all."

    Hyson chuckled at him, "Xian Ge, I really am not the kind of person to keep things in my heart. What needed to be said, I have already shared it with Ellie."

    Raelle patted Shui Xian''s hand that was on her shoulder to reassure, "He is fine. Don''t worry about him."

    Once his wife had spoken up, how could Shui Xian say anything else?

    After reassuring her husband, she turned to her best friend and said, "Now, scram!"

    Hyson nodded his head and stood up saying, "Now I know. You are really a changed person now. Actually, kicking out your best friend for your husband? So cruel!"

    "You''re going or not?"

    Hyson stood up and took a can of beer along with a few packs of chips saying, "I''ll take these as my constion fee. Bye-bye!" As he was about to leave, he turned around and called out, "Xian Ge!" Shui Xian looked back at him as he went on, "Enjoy your bedtime story. In tonight''s episode, my handsome debut in Ellie''s life is happening. So, make sure to enjoy it!"

    It Shui Xian a moment to realize what Hyson''sst words meant. And his thoughts cleared when Raelle said, "He is right. I did meet him because of that third kidnapping."

    Shui Xian''s body stiffened. He couldn''t help it.. Kidnapping in itself was horrible but hearing about Raelle''s experience made him feel a whole lot more worse.

 Chapter 381 - The Third Time

    Raelle shifted in her seat to face Shui Xian. Last night, she couldn''t see what expression he had when she told him what he wanted to know. Did he also pity him for having such parents who didn''t deserve it?

    In fact, Raelle didn''t know whether Xiang Hulin and Song Xin''ai were really good parents or bad. Because she definitely didn''t know them to be the judge of that. However, she was certain that what her grandmother had said was right. Those two didn''t deserve to be her parents.

    "I just realized today that thepany you opened on your own is actually named after your grandmother''s name," stated Shui Xian. "Wanda Enterprises."

    "You''re right," agreed Raelle. "As I believe this life was given to me at the cost of my grandmother''s life, I want people to remember her."

    "She must be really proud of you," remarked Shui Xian sadly.

    "That''s something you and I can''t possibly ever know," was what Raelle said. She took his hand into hers as she looked right into his eyes. "Do you want me to continue from where we left offst night?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "Yes."

    "Are you sure?" she asked again.

    "I''m sure," he answered.

    Raelle nodded her head and started, "It happened a week before my ninth birthday. When I was younger, I was once told by someone that I''m abnormally intelligent. Since I have always been a believer in facts that can be proven through science. My personal interest was also in science. Take chemistry, for instance. I entered apetition the international chemistry olympiad. It wasn''t my first time but it definitely became myst."

    ~~~

    Raelle enjoyed joining suchpetitions since only through thesepetitions did she realize she wasn''t that different from people. There were other people like her with a high IQ. Not everyone could fit in the definition of ''normal.'' At least, she didn''t.

    She had started entering differentpetitions since she was only six. Whether it was maths, physics, or chemistry. All attracted her because she loved to y with numbers andplex forms.

    That year she joined the chemistry olympiad and easily qualified for the internationals. But thepetition was hosted by another country. Since herst kidnapping, both her grandfather and Mu Chenyan had been tightly guarding her. She had even gotten her own bodyguards. One could say she was protected well. However, when something is bound to happen, it just does happen.

    Thepetition was hosted by Country H for the first time that year. And that had to be Raelle''s first experience ofing to this country as well.

    No one knows what went wrong but she was kidnapped from thepetition venue where her bodyguards couldn''t follow her.

    It was only when she woke up after hours that she realized she had been kidnapped once again. At this point, even Raelle questioned her existence. How could the same person get into these kidnappings again and again? Did it even make any sense?

    But in her case, it actually made sense.

    This time she was targeted because of her title of being a child prodigy. Who knew there was an organization that targeted people like her? They kidnapped genius kids and taught them to be robots who only listened to theirmands. Their purpose was definitely not money. They just wanted to use those kids to fulfill their psychopathic dreams.

    When Raelle woke up, she first observed her surrounding. She was thrown into a corner. Her hands were tied behind her back with a rope. And when she tried to free her hands, the rope sharply bit her skin. Even at that age, she had no concept of pain. So, it didn''t bother her at all that the rope was biting down her skin.

    She stayed in that corner for hours trying to observe her surroundings. There was a lot of information that she gathered from just watching. She also learned that currently, they were just staying at a temporaryb in the most deserted area near the Kia District. Those people were nning on waiting for another day before moving from here.

    Raelle had never been a fussy child. So, even in that kind of situation, she was very calm. She was so calm that it could unnerve someone. However, those kidnappers didn''t notice that. They thought she was just a meek child. And they certainly liked kids who didn''t cry and scream. But they didn''t know what calctions were going on in Raelle''s mind.

    She knew if she waited, Yanyan woulde to save her. However, that also meant that she''d have to stay here longer and that would also cause more worry for both her Opa and Yanyan.

    After she was done with her calctions, she kicked the ss of water on an open wire to cause a short circuit. Her original purpose was to distract the people around her to take further action but who knew that a little bit of water actually ended up causing a fire.

    The building was old, obviously, the wiring was also quite old. It was no surprise that she found an open wire which had been chewed on by the rats before. And it was also no surprise that this short circuit ended up burning the whole ce up.

    When the fire broke out, it was chaos. Someone was trying to stop the fire. Some people collected important things to run and she was left alone. Since her feet weren''t tied, she stood up and found her way out. While running out, she picked up the ss shard.

    After escaping from the fire, she saw how deserted this area was. There wasn''t a single person in sight. But she wasn''t in clear yet, she didn''t dwell over it hid in bushes at the side of the road. She knew someone would notice her absence soon.

    Using that ss shard, she tried to cut the ropes binding her hands. The ss shard was too sharp as he continued to cut her small hands as well.. By the time, she freed her hands, her hands were dripping blood that fell on her pure white frock.

 Chapter 382 - Something To Give

    Raelle didn''t know what happened after she left. But since she saw some vehicles leaving that oldb which was on fire now, she definitely didn''t like the fact that the fire didn''t burn all of those people.

    While escaping from the fire, Raelle lost one shoe, so now she threw the other one away as well. She spent the whole night hiding in those bushes looking in the direction of the fire. She didn''t even feel tired. It was only at the break of dawn that she started walking towards the city.

    But she didn''t even know where she was. This was apletely unfamiliar country to her. And it wasn''t that developed yet either. She didn''t find a single vehicle on this road.

    Walking for hours, even she didn''t know where she was trying to go. Ah! She was going to find her grandfather. Yes, she had to look for Yanyan. With that thought, she continued on.

    "Ahh!"

    She heard someone screaming in pain and her eyes turned. She found a boy even shorter than her sprawled on the road, crying. He must have fallen down since his knees looked like they scraped. She only gave him a fleeting nce but when the little boy looked up, he couldn''t look away.

    He felt like he was looking at an angel dressed in white. But this angel was barefoot. The red stains of blood had painted her white frock like blooming flowers. Her feet were bloody, her hands were bloody, she was covered in grass and mud but nothing could hide how beautiful she was. For a moment, he even forgot to cry.

    But the angel who touched his heart only walked away from him indifferently, shattering his little heart into tiny pieces. Seeing that he was being ignored, he cried louder, "Mama! Mama!"

    Unbeknownst to him, Raelle wasn''t as indifferent as she appeared. Because the first time she set her eyes on him, her mind only had one thought, ''He is a pretty boy.'' And as she had always been the person who likes beautiful things. It was impossible that she won''t have an impression of this little boy who looked so pretty and cute.

    Hearing him calling for his mother, she walked back to him and asked, "Are you showing off that you have a mother?" The little boy looked up at her and shook his head innocently. "Then stop crying! Your mother is not here to help you. Neither is she gonna be there for all your life. You''re the one who lost the way, you should be the one to find your way back to her as well!"

    The little boy was stunned by her words and even forgot to cry. As he watched her leaving again, he wiped his tears and ran after her. He cheekily walked by her side and said, "Beautiful Jie, has anyone ever told you?" Raelle didn''t pay attention to him as she continued to walk ahead. "Jie, red is your color."

    Because of his words, Raelle looked down at her clothes. Then she lifted her hands and looked at the dried off the blood. Her hands looked unsightly right now and she believed she was in no condition to be called beautiful.

    Little Hyson noticed her hands and looked really sad. "Jie, does it hurt? Should I blow on it for you?"

    Raelle put down her hands saying, "Blowing on it won''t change anything."

    "I have another way to make you feel better," he added as he ran after her with his short legs. He spread his hands out to block her way. "Jie, I want to give you something."

    Raelle didn''t know why she was spending this much time with a stranger. Perhaps, because it was her first time to find someone close to her age. Or perhaps she found this little boy too pretty so she couldn''t refuse. Whatever reason was holding her back, it did. It held her in ce.

    She was still thinking about what he wanted to give her when he opened his arms and hugged her. Raelle''s whole body froze in her ce. But little Hyson wasn''t willing to let go. He patted her back gently as his mother would always do to him. "It''s okay. You''ll be okay."

    ~~~~

    As Raelle walked out of that memory, she looked at Shui Xian and added, "Do you know Hyson says he offered me a hug because I looked like I really needed it. To be honest, I also didn''t know I needed that hug at that time."

    Shui Xian continued to rub his thumb on the back of her hand as he listened to her silently. He was thinking about how even in such a dangerous situation, she had stayed calm. Even when she started the fire, she didn''t even for a second think that she could die there. It was like that wasn''t even in her consideration at all.

    And if there weren''t Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan on her mind, she might have not even tried to save herself desperately. It was like she had no other reason to live here. Living was just an obligation.

    She didn''t even hesitate while cutting her own flesh. Saying it didn''t hurt her would be a lie, right? How could one not even feel the pain?

    "Looking back, I realize that I did need that hug," added Raelle. "Because that hug was a reminder that some people really have kindness in their hearts. And surprisingly, one such kind soul came rushing into my life with that one hug." Thinking about something, she continued, "You might find it funny. Before meeting me, Hyson was actually crying not because he scraped his knees. It was because he couldn''t find his way back home. But that idiot still somehow brought me back to his home with him."

    Even until now, Hyson wouldugh at himself for that. But then he''d brag to her that, ''It was because I was meant to meet you that''s why I couldn''t find my way home.. And once I found you, I found my way back home as well.''

 Chapter 383 - Use As A Weapon

    "He said he''ll take me home," said Raelle. "And I ended up following him."

    ~~~

    For young Raelle, it was the first time someone hugged her like that. Since she never liked physical touch, even Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan refrained from touching her too much. But they were her family. She wasn''t that resistant to their touches.

    But it was surprising how she was resistant to Hyson''s hug as well. He was indeed a stranger. But he was the stranger who was willing to offer her a smile from his heart and give her a hug when she needed it. He was young and silly. He had noplicated thoughts. Everything was simple for him and he did whatever his heart told him to.

    For a person like Raelle who followed her mind, someone like Hyson was unique and refreshing. He was like that sunshine on a cold winter day that could warm a person up.

    He held her hand and said, "Jie, let''s go home. My mum would love you."

    And then somehow she actually followed him to his home. When they reached the house, they found a woman pacing back and forth with a worried look on her face. As soon as she saw Hyson, she rushed over to hug him.

    Hyson used his little hands to rub her back saying, "I''m fine, mum. I just got lost with directions." And then he instantly changed his words, "Mum, look I made a new friend."

    Only then did Yue look over at Raelle. And seeing her look, her eyes widened. Eyes brimming with concern, she held Raelle''s hands and looked at the deep cuts.

    ''What happened to her?'' she questioned her son.

    "I don''t know," answered Hyson. "She didn''t say, I didn''t ask."

    ''If you won''t ask, how will you offer help?''

    Hyson thought about it and looked at Raelle, "Jie, you need some help?"

    "Can I make a phone call?"

    Yue nodded her head and ran inside to get the phone while Hyson led Raelle inside the house. He was actually trying to read Raelle''s expressions. From a young age, he had been reminded again and again that his mother was different. She couldn''t talk and that''s why he couldn''t fit in with other kids.

    Everyone who met his mother would have a look of pity on their faces or sometimes even disdain. But he found nothing on Raelle''s face and for the very time, he found this ''nothing'' to be very attractive.

    Not even once did Raelle ask about his mother. But she did say something that caught him off guard, "I want to learn signnguage." That''s all she had said and Hyson felt like that was the most beautiful sentence he had ever heard in his life.

    Raelle didn''t know what emotional turmoil he was going through. She just the hotel''s number where they had checked in when they first arrived here. After she gave the address to the hotel staff, she hung up. It seemed both her grandfather and Yanyan were out looking for her.

    She looked at the time and only then remembered that it was her ninth birthday on that very day. She arrived in this country 7 days before her birthday. First, five days were gone inpetition and the other two just went by in that oldb. And now that she was out, it was supposed to be her birthday.

    She was pulled out of her thoughts when she saw a small tub filled with warm water ced at her feet. Yue held her ankle as she tried to wipe my foot and Raelle pulled her foot back instinctively. Yue looked up and smiled at her affectionately to reassure her. Raelle let her guard down just because of that smile.

    Whether it was mother or son, both really knew how to use their smiles as a weapon against her. And it actually worked as well.

    ~~~~

    "That incident scared Yanyan so much that she started following me everywhere I went," told Raelle. "In fact, my bodyguards were also changed. Yanyan hired ex-mercenaries to protect me. Even when Opa said mercenaries are cold-blooded and she should not allow them near me, she refused to do so. But it was also this incident that made me lose my interest in bing a scientist. In the end, I entered the field of business."

    Shui Xian slowly and gently rubbed her wrists again and again. It was as if by doing so, he''d be able to ease the pain brought by that rope. And since Raelle had gotten better at reading his expressions, she understood his intention and let him be.

    "What happened to the kidnappers?" he asked her.

    "A few of them died in that fire since the fire really went out of control," answered Raelle truthfully. "Technically, you can say I killed them."

    "You didn''t," said Shui Xian. "They all should have died in that fire."

    Raelle silently looked at his face while he kept looking down at her hands. He brought up her hand and dropped a kiss on each of her wrists. He did it so gently that it seemed like he was afraid that it might hurt her.

    "Anyways, my Yanyan would definitely not anyone escape," said Raelle. "Although she dealt with those people, she actually lost her confidence. She said it seemed she was not capable of protecting me. Just like how my parents didn''t deserve to have me, she didn''t either. She couldn''t even protect me. It took me a while to make her believe that it wasn''t her fault. She did her best to protect me."

    "It''s because Yanyan loves you so much that she easily gets insecure and unconfident," said Shui Xian. "I can''t me her for that."

    Raelle ced her hand on his head and said, "Now that you know it, stop worrying already. I didn''t tell you all of this to make you feel bad for me. Stop overthinking about it all."

    Shui Xian pulled her in for a hug, "I''m sorry I wasn''t there to offer this hug."

 Chapter 384 - Canâ€™t Wrong Her

    On the other side, Mu Chenyan took off her sses and rubbed the nose bridge. Stretching her neck, she picked the cup of coffee from the side of theptop only to realize that it was already empty. Shaking her head, she stood up and decided to get herself another cup of coffee.

    Opening a business at this age too was no easy feat. Even though she had it a lot easier than most people she still couldn''t bring herself to leave everything to professionals. Since the idea was hers, she had to work for it. She had to create a brand for Yue and let her be recognized in the world!

    She couldn''t leave her best friend to fend for herself. Especially now that she had already taken so much pain to pull Yue out of her shell. She made a strong coffee for herself and took a sip feeling content. But as soon as she walked out of the kitchen she ran into someone.

    "Anna?" Mu Chenyan frowned at her and looked at the time. "What are you doing here at this time?"

    "It''s about Missy," answered Anna.

    "What? If it''s nothing too serious, you don''t have to tell me. It''s not like I asked you to stalk her," chuckled Mu Chenyan. "I just want her safe."

    "We didn''t do our job well today," said Anna. "We were negligent in protecting Missy."

    Mu Chenyan lost her yful vibes as a serious aura burst out of her, "Tell me in detail about what''s going on?" Since her original employer had been Mu Chenyan, Anna had genuine respect for this woman. So, she didn''t hide anything regarding Raelle''s visit to the military base. Mu Chenyan almost smashed the cup she was holding but held herself back, "Why didn''t you call me? If you have called, would I have let those bastards take my family''s darling for an investigation as a suspect? Are they looking for death?" She roared at Anna, "Who was it? Who was leading the team?"

    Anna cleared her throat before answering, "Special Forces, Major Xiang Wai."

    Mu Chenyan looked like someone punched a hole in her balloon because someone just threw cold water on the fire that had lit up inside of her. She held her head and waved her off, "You can leave now." She took a deep breath to gather her thoughts before saying, "This is tricky."

    She felt some tapping on her shoulder and turned to see that Yue was standing behind her with an empty water bottle in her hands.

    "Did you hear it?"

    Yue nodded her head in reply.

    Mu Chenyan sighed out, "Isn''t this exactly the kind of a situation our Elle would call ''troublesome''?"

    Yue nodded once again and sat down beside her, ''What are you gonna do now?"

    Mu Chenyan shrugged her shoulders, "I have no idea. On one side is my Elle and on the other side is also my niece."

    Yue could also understand what kind of a dilemma she was going through but there was nothing she could say to help Mu Chenyan out. In fact, even if she said something, Mu Chenyan was never the kind of person to do what others wanted her to. She did everything ording to her mood. No one could force her to do anything.

    "I need to think about it carefully," added Mu Chenyan.

    ''Why don''t you tell Elder Xiang? He''d be able to help out,'' suggested Yue.

    Mu Chenyan shook her head, "There is no need to get him involved in this. In fact, I have the answer already." She looked at Yue and told her, "Although Xiang Wai is indeed my niece, I''m a biased person. And my biasedness will always lean towards my Elle. Even if I have to wrong someone in this world, that person can never be my Elle. Never ever! And I won''t allow someone else to wrong her either. Even if that person is her own sister."

    Yue already had expected such a result. Because at the end of the day, Raelle was more than just a niece to Mu Chenyan. She had given the best years of life to Raelle. She was far too precious to Mu Chenyan than anyone else. Also, the promise she gave to Madam Xiang had been instilled in Mu Chenyan''s soul now. She''d do anything to give Raelle the best!

    ''Don''t go too far,'' Yue still warned Mu Chenyan.

    Mu Chenyan agreed readily, "Since Elle isn''t really hurt, I obviously won''t go too far."

    ''Now, go back to sleep.''

    "I still have to sort out some details," replied Mu Chenyan.

    ''You can do it tomorrow,'' said Yue.

    "But when I can do it now, why to leave it to tomorrow?" retorted Mu Chenyan. "You stop thinking about me. You work on your designs. Your job is still just to put your inspiration on the piece of paper. The rest is up to me. I won''t disappoint you." She pushed Yue towards her room as she muttered, "How about you bake a cake in the morning? And some cookies as well?"

    Yue gave her a strange look, ''Where did this thoughte from at this time of the night?''

    "It''s because I think Fai was looking a little down when he came home in the evening. Although he seemed fine after he came from Elle''s ce, I still think he''ll feel better if you bake a cake for him. He''d forget all his worries before the cake."

    ''That''s my son. Even I don''t pay him as much attention as you do.''

    "I''ve just be an expert at seeing through people since I had to raise a girl named Raelle. And let me remind you, it''s no easy feat to read that girl. Reading Hyson is way too easy since he wears all his feelings right on his face."

    ''He isn''t that easy to read. But just as you said, it''s you who is too good at reading him like a book.''

    "Thanks for thepliment."

 Chapter 385 - Canâ€™t Force

    Early in the morning, the door of the hospital ward was pushed open, and in walked a bouquet of flowers. Oh, this bouquet actually had legs!

    Xiang Weimin felt a headacheing when he saw this scene. It was too early in the morning for this headache.

    "Wai! Can you even see where you''re going?"

    The big bouquet was pushed down and a face with sharp features came into view. The slightly tanned skin of the woman had a seductive touch to it. Although her features weren''t peerless beauty kind, she was good-looking. But it was hard to call her pretty since her aura gave off a strong sense.

    One couldn''t really call her pretty in that uniform that seemed to be a part of her whole self. Fully dressed in her military uniform she stood there with an imposing and prepossessing ambiance. Epaulets decorated her uniform showing her rank.

    "Such a huge bouquet of flowers and this uniform? Don''t you think it doesn''t go well together?"

    Xiang Wai looked down at her uniform and shrugged her shoulders casually, "So what if it''s mismatched?" She pushed the huge bouquet towards him, "I got this for you, Ge!" While he was hesitating, she added, "Just take it. You have no girlfriend who would being to give you gifts. Feel blessed that your sister is even bothering with this."

    "Then I must thank you," said Xiang Weimin.

    "You should," replied Xiang Wai.

    "Didn''t you say you''d be busy in the period and won''t be able toe?" inquired Xiang Weimin curiously.

    "I still have no time," she told him. "We made a big breakthrough yesterday. So, I took a chance to slip out."

    "You actually left your work behind just toe and see me?" Xiang Weimin sounded like he was in disbelief.

    "Can''t I do this much for my brother?" she argued back.

    Xiang Weimin gave her a look, "My sweet sister, we don''t have the gene structure like that. In our family, people love their work more than anything. And everyone also likes to prioritize the work above everything else. That''s why it''s difficult for me to believe that you slipped out of work toe and see me."

    Xiang Wai leaned against the wall as she didn''t deny his words. The only thing she took seriously in life had been her job. As for Xiang Weimin, his whole life was just his job. And even if she looked at their parents, she won''t find anything different. Suddenly, Raelle''s face shed through her mind and a thought popped up, ''Was she also like that?''

    And then she shook that thought out of her mind and tried to concentrate on the present.

    "Enough about me," she changed the topic. "You tell me how you''re doing? Is everything well? Is the hospital really boring? Even if it is, just hang in there. It won''t take that long for you to get back on the field... Oops, I should say you''d soon be in the sky."

    Xiang Weimin shook his head at her, "If you''re gonna answer the questions yourself, why are you even asking me?"

    Xiang Wai pursed her lips and came over to his side. She held his face in her hands and looked intently at his face. More precisely, she was looking at his eyes.

    "I was right," she mumbled to herself. "They really look alike."

    "What?" asked Xiang Weimin and pped her hand away. "What are you even doing?"

    "Nothing," she refused to mention it before her brother. "I was just thinking why do you look so bright and sunny today? I thought you''d be depressed staying in the hospital."

    Xiang Weimin smiled at her, "So, you want me to be depressed?"

    "Don''t y this game with me," she warned. "Just give me a reason why you''re looking so happy?"

    "Dear sister," he beckoned her close and when she did lean forward he went on, "I just learned from someone that happiness had never needed excuses. It''s a lot easier to be happy than we think it is."

    Xiang Wai blinked at him, "I feel like you just said something really deep but it just went over my head."

    Xiang Weimin chuckled at her response and flicked her forehead. "When are you gonna get serious in life?"

    "Ge, why be serious when you can just be mysterious?"

    "Why is it so difficult to hold a proper conversation with you?" he asked in resignation.

    "Maybe because I still am not ready for your serious talk in life," she answered. "I can''t take life so seriously. That''s just not me."

    "Is that why you''ve been repeatedly hurting Yanjun?" he inquired straightforwardly. "Your casual attitude has hurt him way too many times."

    "I didn''t think we''d end up on this topic but since we are on the topic, let me tell you," said Xiang Wai. "He and I... We really aren''t right for each other."

    "And how do you know that?"

    "Because I am not what he needs in his life," she argued. "He needs someone stable in his life. Someone who can offer love to him unconditionally. Someone who can stay with him unconditionally. But I am not that person."

    "But you also love him!"

    "Ge, love is not enough," she retorted. "My love is selfish. Just as much as I am selfish. There is no way I can love him unconditionally when I even live my life on conditions! That''s just how I was raised by my mother. What can I do about it?"

    Xiang Weimin felt like he couldn''t continue this topic anymore. She was indeed right. Just love had never been enough for rtionships to survive the test of time.

    Xiang Wai rubbed her forehead to calm herself before she changed the topic, "You stop worrying about me. I know you have way too much free time on your hand right now but that doesn''t mean you need to spend it while contemting about life and stuff." She looked at her brother and added, "You can''t force things in life, Ge.. Our parents are the biggest example of that."

 Chapter 386 - Let Me Borrow

    For the next couple of days, whenever Raelle and Shui Xian went running in the morning, Shui Xian would look around the track but when he didn''t catch a glimpse of whom he had been looking for, his eyes droop down showing his mood clearly.

    On a Friday morning, it happened again. Raelle took a moment to contemte before she asked one of her bodyguards to do something for her. That evening when Raelle came from work, she didn''t go home. Instead, the car took another turn in the residential area. As the driver parked the car, she asked, "Is this the house?"

    "Yes, Missy!"

    Raelle stepped out to look at the house in front of her and stepped over to ring the doorbell. She waited for a while but there was no response. She rang the doorbell again. But it was only after ringing the doorbell three times that the door was opened.

    "Stop ringing the bell already," came a hoarse voice. "I heard it the first time." And then the person hugged the nket around him and looked up at Raelle.

    Raelle paused slightly when she saw the person standing before her. Meanwhile, the house owner was also left stunned when he saw Raelle only because she looked stunning. Those red wide-leg sailor pants matched with a white silk tank top and a red zer were a look to behold. And no one could possibly say otherwise!

    "How can I help you?" he asked in a daze.

    "Coco is your dog?" asked Raelle without beating around the bush.

    He nodded his head, "Yeah. Coco is my dog. But why are you asking?"

    "You haven''t been taking it out on a walk every morning these days," said Raelle.

    "I caught a cold," he answered and wondered why he was telling this to aplete stranger? Even if the stranger was a hot and stunningdy, how could he answer all of her questions without even thinking? She had a scary power to make him answer like this.

    "Oh," responded Raelle. "Then can I take your dog out on a walk? He must be feeling lonely these days staying indoors."

    "Ah... Sure!" He agreed and pped his face. "No, I mean I can''t let you take Coco."

    "Why not?"

    "I don''t even know who you are," he said matter-of-factly. "I can''t possibly trust you with my dog."

    "I shall introduce myself," she said. "Hi, I''m Raelle Xiang. I live on anotherne. The reason why I want your dog is that my husband is quite fond of your pet and since he hasn''t been able to meet Coco, he''d been feeling a bit down. So, I was wondering if you could let me borrow your dog?" She took the box of macaroons from the person behind her and offered it to him, "This is to show my gratitude for your help."

    Lin Zhen gaped at her for a moment. He was speechless. He never thought someone could actually ask to borrow his dog in this way. She sounded so polite and respectful just now that he was almost touched.

    "Is this information enough for you?" she asked him. "If you still don''t trust me..." She took out her phone and made a phone call.

    "Yo, bestie! What''s up?"

    "Tell this person to give his dog to me," said Raelle and passed the phone to Lin Zhen who was still not following anything but he still ended up with her phone.

    As he held the phone against his ear, he asked, "Who is it?"

    "Huh?" Hyson was surprised. "Why is your voice so familiar?" Hyson thought about it and gasped, "Zhen Ge?"

    "Fai?" Lin Zhen was taken aback as he stared at Raelle. "This woman is your..."

    "Aiya! I can''t believe this. Zhen Ge, just do as she is saying. You''ll get your pet back, I promise."

    "No, it''s not about that," said Lin Zhen. "It''s that I was sick in thest couple of days so I left Coco at the pet store. I was afraid that she''d catch germs and all."

    "You can tell me about the pet store," said Raelle. "I can bring her back on my own. And I''ll drop her off back as well."

    Lin Zhen smiled at her words while he heard Hyson over the phone, "Yeah, let''s do that then. And I''m so sorry for disturbing you Zhen Ge. You should have told me that you''re sick. I''lle over to see you soon."

    "There is no need for that, I''m much better now." After saying a couple of words to him, he gave the phone back to Raelle. "I''ll give you the address of the pet store and I''ll call them to let them know about you as well."

    "Thank you!" said Raelle with as much sincerity as she could muster up in her indifferent voice. Which by the way was none!

    As she was about to leave, he called out, "Wait! You''re Xiao Fai''s best friend he loves to talk about?"

    "I am," she answered.

    Lin Zhen nodded his head, "Got it. It''s very nice meeting you."

    Raelle gave him a nod and went away. Behind her, Lin Zhen tightened his nket around him even more tightly. As he went back inside the room, he said, "Raelle Xiang... This name sounds familiar. I''ve recently heard it somewhere." Thinking of this, he found his phone and entered her name into a search engine, and as soon as he saw the details, he shook his head, "And Fai said he is a simple person. Do simple people have such best friends?"

    In the end, none of them thought they would have this chance encounter. Raelle had recognized Lin Zhen almost instantly. After all, she knew every detail about the people Hyson worked with. How else would she be reassured to let that idiot hang around just anyone?

    Hyson also didn''t think he''d suddenly get a call from Raelle and he''d end up talking to Lin Zhen in the end.. This was such a strange coincidence that he got goosebumps.

 Chapter 387 - Not A Dog

    Obviously, Raelle didn''t have to go to the pet store to get Coco in person but she still did. In her opinion, since she was borrowing someone''s property, she needed to show some sincerity. And that''s how she ended up going to get Coco from the pet store.

    Coco was just as excited as always. Coco was the kind of dog who spread happiness. Coco jumped around Raelle who involuntarily took a step back. Even when she arrived home, she kept her distance from the dog. But Coco was somehow charmed by Raelle and insisted on trying to rub against Raelle''s leg which Raelle would definitely not allow happen.

    "Keep this thing away from me," Raelle ordered in a t voice.

    The people following her pursed their lips to hide their smiles. They never thought a dog would end up putting Raelle Xiang in a difficult situation.

    "Missy, that''s a dog," stated Anna. "Not a thing." Raelle gave her a nk look which made her change her statement almost immediately, "Definitely a thing."

    Raelle didn''t care about these details at the moment, she saw Shui Xian''s car driving in and said, "Untie the leash."

    And as soon as Shui Xian stepped out of his car, he heard...

    "Woof! Woof! Woof!"

    Hearing that excited barking, Shui Xian was stunned and as he looked up, he was taken aback by the shadow that jumped on him. It seemed Coco did have an impression of Shui Xian as she tackled him down on the ground and started licking his face all over.

    Shui Xianughed heartily, "Oh my! Where did youe from?" He petted Coco''s head lovingly. He was genuinely surprised to see her here. When he noticed Raelle standing not far away, he didn''t even have to think to know what was going on. Who else would do it for him if not her?

    He cupped Coco''s face and kissed the dog''s head, "I take it that you missed me as well. I did too."

    With her arms crossed against her chest, Raelle continued to watch this scene y out in front of her with no change in her expressions or her emotions. The only change about her was the fact that she had been watching that big smile on Shui Xian''s face intently. He looked really happy and from that Raelle could deduce that she had taken the right decision.

    Not like she ever doubted her own decisions but it was still good to know that she managed to bring a huge smile on her husband''s face back. After all, she found hisughter to be the most beautiful.

    Shui Koshing also came out to the front garden and stood beside Raelle as he watched his son having fun with Coco. His eyes moved to his family''s daughter-inw who stood beside him and his eyes softened.

    "My daughter-inw is really thoughtful," hemented.

    "Am I?" questioned Raelle. "But I only did what I thought was right."

    Shui Koshing smiled at her answer, "The most beautiful thing about you is the fact that you don''t even know what you''re capable of."

    "B¨¤," she called out after a moment of silence.

    "Hm?"

    "I''m not really that perfect," she told him.

    Shui Koshing chuckled at her words and lifted his hand to rub her head gently, "No one is asking you to be perfect, Raelle. I did not choose you as a partner because I found you perfect. You just have to be you, somehow that''s enough."

    Raelle thought about his words and nodded her head, "I understand."

    "Are you nning on staying there the whole night?" Shui Koshing called out to his son was rolling around on the grass in his suit that waspletely ruined by now. Forgetting all about his image or status, currently, Shui Xian was just like a kid. This scene actually reminded Shui Koshing of Shui Xian''s childhood.

    "You can go inside," replied Shui Xian. "I''ll be right there with you."

    Shui Koshing shook his head at him and said to Raelle, "We should go inside now. Let him be. He''lle inside when gets tired."

    Raelle nodded her head and turned to Anna, "Bring that dog back to her home."

    "Yes, Missy."

    "No, wait! Feed her something first," instructed Raelle.

    "What should I feed her?" asked Anna on purpose. For some weird reason, she felt like teasing Raelle right now.

    "How would I know that?" retorted Raelle. "I''m not a dog. How would I know what dogs like to eat? Just do your own research."

    Anna nodded her head and lowered her head while biting down on her lower lip to stifle herughter. And when Raelle went inside the house, she couldn''t hold back. Raelle wasn''t a dog person. No, it''d be right to say she was just not an animal-loving person. That didn''t mean she hated animals, it just meant she kept her distance from animals. Pets had never been something she wanted to keep.

    The ever so silent, Aiden finally opened his mouth to say, "Team leader, you shouldn''t tease Missy like that."

    "I couldn''t help it," replied Anna. "It''s not every day you get to see Raelle Xiang being so clueless."

    "It''s the way she is that sets her apart from the world," Aiden pointed out.

    "For people like us who have be ustomed to seeing dark hearts and worst parts of human nature, it''s novel to meet someone like her," said Anna to him. And that was the reason she had chosen to stay beside this girl as a bodyguard. Leaving the path of blood that she walked on as a mercenary, she had never thought she''de across someone so unique like Raelle Xiang.

    For people like them who walked on the road of darkness, people like Raelle were fascinating and equally scary. After all, the light that emitted from Raelle''s soul was too bright.. Sometimes darkness has a yearning to embrace that light and sometimes, darkness is scared of being devoured by that light.

 Chapter 388 - No Kisses

    Even after ying around for over 2 hours, Shui Xian was like a kid who was reluctant to let go of his favorite toy. He just couldn''t get enough of it. He didn''t know what was exactly wrong with him.

    It was true that he had been feeling down since the time he learned about Raelle''s kidnappings. He actually knew that there was no point in thinking about it but he couldn''t help himself. Even after days, his brain was reying her words over and over again. And just imagining what she went through chilled his heart.

    Raelle had spoken so casually about it as if it was just any ordinary situation. However, the version ying out in his mind was making him feel intense pain. He didn''t know how she felt in those situations. Was she scared? Did she feel helpless? Did she panic? At the age she was kidnapped, kids would usually go through those emotions, right?

    He remembered when he was 7 years old, he actually got lost in the fair and he was so scared that he started crying. And when his mother found him, he hugged her for hours refusing to let go. Even such a small incident left a huge mark on his memory.

    Did she not go through any of those emotions? Even if he knew she was unfamiliar with emotions, it was hard for him to imagine such a young kid not feeling anything about such dangerous situations. In a way, her life was always at stake at that time and yet she felt nothing about it.

    Even in those hopeless situations, she had the mind to find a way out for herself.

    Just how strong a person''s heart and mind had to be to aplish what she did? Don''t they say kids are fragile? A wound on a child''s heart takes a whole life to heal and he understood that very well.

    He had seen Zhai Yanjun trying to cope up with the wounds that his childhood left on his heart. In a way, Zhai Yanjun even had to go through PTSD because of his childhood experiences.

    And that''s why it was really difficult for him to rte to Raelle. He was even confused whether he really wanted Raelle to feel anything or not? Wasn''t it good like this as well? At least in this way, she didn''t have to suffer because of the pain of her past.

    "And here I thought you''d be happy now."

    He snapped out of his thoughts when he heard Raelle''s voice and found her looking at him. Shui Xian''s lips stretched out in a big smile, "I am happy." He opened his arms and tried to hug but Raelle stepped back to put some distance between them. Shui Xian gaped at her in disbelief.

    "You gotta wash up first," she said straightforwardly.

    Only then did Shui Xian look down and notice how he looked right now. Grass stalks stuck to him here and there. There was even mud on him. No wonder she took a step away from him.

    "Then how about a kiss?" he tried to negotiate.

    Raelle shook her head tly, "Not happening unless you really wash up."

    "It''s just a kiss," he insisted.

    "You kissed the dog as well," she reminded him.

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and sighed out eventually as he raised his hands saying, "Got it, boss! I''ll clean up first."

    Raelle nodded in a well-mannered way, "Yes, please do ande down for dinner."

    "Okay," agreed Shui Xian as he went up.

    Later that night, when Raelle was about to go to bed, Shui Xian hooked his finger to beckon her over to his side, "Come here, baby!"

    "What for?" she questioned but she still walked over to his side of the bed.

    Shui Xian held her wrist and pulled her over making her fall on hisp. Hugging her waist, he kissed her cheek, "Thank you!"

    Raelle blinked at him and from that one look, Shui Xian knew she had no idea why he was saying that. Only she was capable of doing that really.

    "I don''t know why you suddenly thought about bringing Coco over but I''m really happy that you did. Thank you so much!"

    Raelle pushed his hair away from his forehead saying, "Haven''t you been looking for that dog every morning? I only found her because you seemed like you wanted to see her." She took a pause and added, "And since I wanted to make you happy, I just did what I thought would make you happy."

    Something swelled inside his heart when he heard that. Kissing the tip of her nose, he said, "I am already very happy to have you in my life right now."

    "But that isn''t enough," she said to him. "Our lives can''t possibly revolve around just one person. That''s unrealistic. Maybe my presence does make you happy but the happiness brought by me and the happiness brought by seeing that dog are two different things. It can''t possibly be the same."

    Shui Xian just stared at her with a gentle look in his eyes, "It really isn''t the same. I just never thought happiness also had categories."

    "Why can''t happiness has categories?" asked Raelle. "Different people are associated with different feelings in our lives, no? Then howe the happiness they bring us is the same? It isn''t."

    Shui Xian held her face and wrapped his lips around hers in a gentle kiss. The kiss was gentle, soft, and lingering. It wasn''t the kind to take your breath away. It was veryforting and very gripping as well. Because thefort it brought to his heart was addictive. Something he couldn''t possibly pull himself away from.

    It''s not like he wished to pull away either.

    Clinging on to her had already be somewhat of a habit of his now. No matter what he just couldn''t move away from her.. If she was around, he wanted to just hold her in his arms.

 Chapter 389 - The Best Sentence

    Theforting kiss took a drastic turn when Raelle held the back of his head and kissed him passionately, surprising Shui Xian a little. But of course, he won''t refuse it. If anything, he epted her passionate kisses with a smirk.

    Raelle trailed the kisses down his jaw and then his neck as she pushed him down making himy down on his back. As she straddled him, she put her hand on his chest saying, "Since I made you happy, how about you return the favor?"

    Shui Xian pushed her silk pajamas up as his hands rubbed her waist like he was caressing a delicate flower.

    "I wonder what can I do to return the favor?" he asked with a yful vibe. And even as he spoke, his hands had the mind of their own as they kept running all over her body. He cupped her sulent breast under the shirt as he added, "How about I return the favor by devoting myself to you?"

    Raelle licked her lips as she felt something poking her behind and said, "You seem excited."

    Shui Xian chuckled at her words, "Wife, it''s hard not to be when you''re around."

    "Oh," stated Raelle. "So, I have that kind of talent as well?"

    Shui Xian pulled her head down to kiss her. His tongue licked every nook and cranny of her mouth. Almost like trying to swallow her up. He unbuttoned her shirt and sucked relentlessly on her nipples. He sucked and nibbled making her body squirm a little response.

    And when she squirmed, her butt rubbed against his rock-hard manhood. And that made him suck in a cold breath.

    Rubbing his thumb on her cheek, he spoke in a deep husky voice, "Sweetheart, you''re gorgeous." His deep voice was a clear indication that he was aroused now. He badly wanted her. No, he needed her right now.

    "You aren''t half bad yourself, husband."

    Shui Xian ended upughing out loud because of her words. Raelle kissed the corner of his mouth as she whispered, "I want you."

    "Fuck!" Shui Xian cursed out loud before he embraced her and flipped her over. As he hovered above her, he pushed her hair away from her face and looked into her eyes, "That''s one of the best sentences I have ever heard in my life." Saying that he pulled over his shirt and threw it away.

    Raelle''s soft hands touched his chest. Shui Xian leaned down to kiss her beautiful neck while his arousal was grinding against her core.

    Soon, he ended up removing every single piece of clothing that they wore. When all the hindrance was removed, he really did what he told her he''d do. He really devoted himself to her. It''d be right to say that he felt like worshipping her whole body as his lips reached every single inch of skin on her body.

    Kissing the tips of her fingers, he couldn''t help swallowing her finger into his mouth and sucking on it sensually. He kissed her ankles, her legs, her chest. And he even turned her over to kiss her shoulder des, and her back.

    He sucked on her neck intensely making her arch her back. His lips pressed against her ears as he asked, "Baby, what do you want me to do?"

    Without even thinking, she answered, "I want you toe inside me."

    Shui Xian gave a throatyugh as he caressed her face saying, "The thing I love the most about you is the fact that you always know what you really want. And you aren''t afraid to ask for it either."

    Without any dy, he pressed his manhood against her core and slowly and delicately entered inside her. As he thrust inside her, he felt how warm she was. So warm, wet, and tight.

    He moved inside her with familiarity now. Knowing well enough where all her soft spots were and how he could make her reach the peak of ecstasy. He kissed her lightly as he moved, making her wetter down there.

    His breathing was erratic, his body was tone hard and hot. But he couldn''t loosen his grip on Raelle''s waist as he pounded her fast and hard. He was feeling so fulfilled when he heard her moan under him.

    Raelle gripped his soft hair in her hands as she ran her fingers through them. She seemed to like the softness of his hair.

    Shui Xian hiked one of her legs up higher and let it rest on his shoulder as he changed the angle to reach even deeper inside of her to make her groan in pleasure. Something that only he could hear. The sound of her moans was pleasant to his ears.

    She took all of him inside as she allowed him to go as deep as he could or as fast as he could.

    Shui Xian didn''t think that Friday night would be concluding like this. But it did and he definitely wasn''t the one toin. How could he even have the time toin when he was so lost in pleasure that he hardly even remembered where he was? All he knew was that he wanted to show this woman how much he adored her. Revered her!

    She had be that inseparable part of his life that her every word had an effect on him. No! Even every single nce of hers had an effect on him. Whenever her eyes rest on him, he felt something inside of him moving.

    Raelle once said she liked to take everything in her control. And now, Shui Xian had actually fallen into her control as well without even realizing it. He didn''t know about the rest but she definitely could control all of his emotion at this point. She just had to give him a look and he''d be ready to offer his whole life to her. That''s how crazy he was about her now.

    "It''s really easy to fall in love with you," he whispered to her as he embraced her in his arms and closed his eyes to rest with a content smile on his face.

 Chapter 390 - Human Sushi

    Since it was the weekend, Hyson waszing around in his bed. Rolling from one end to another. From the head of the bed to the foot of the bed. The nket was wrapped around him like he was human sushi. Only his fluffy hair was visible.

    Although he was awake, he was toozy to get out of bed. In fact, every day was like a weekend to him these days but still, today was different. It was like his brain knew that it was Saturday and because of this information, his body was unwilling to cooperate.

    Besides, he had some things on his mind that made him feel even more drained out. As for what he had in mind, it wasplicated. There was so much that he wasn''t certain exactly what he was supposed to do. The thinking was really not his thing. It burned out his mind. And he didn''t like this feeling.

    "Fai!"

    Hyson heard Mu Chenyan calling her and replied back in a loud voice, "Yes!"

    "Get up already," said Mu Chenyan. "Don''t you have ns with Xian today?"

    Hyson''s body was like it got electrocuted as he jerked up. It was only now his brain slowly remembered that he really had ns with Shui Xian today. As for where they were going or what they were doing, he had no idea. Neither was he that curious regarding that information.

    As he tried to rush down the bed, the human sushi got tangled up and he ended up kissing the floor. Hearing the loud bang, Mu Chenyan and Yue Yue came rushing in. When they saw how he was sprawled on the floor, they both shared a look before they burst outughing.

    Hyson crawled up from the floor and gave these two prettydies an intense look. For some reason, the nket around him was being stubborn by not falling off. He jumped like a bunny and came over to Mu Chenyan saying, "Help me first. You canughter."

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head and freed him from the ws of this stubborn nket. Hyson finally breathed a sigh of relief when he managed to get out.

    "Fai, it wasn''t even the first time this happened," reminded Mu Chenyan. "Howe you always get yourself into these situations?"

    Hyson raked his fingers through his hair saying, "Perhaps that''s what my talent is." He draped his arms around both thesedies'' shoulders and said, "How about you both help me in choosing what to wear?"

    ''Just wear whatever,'' was his mother''s response.

    "Mum, how can you say it so casually?"

    ''It''s not like you''re going on a date,'' reminded Yue Yue.

    "It is a date!"

    Yue Yue pped the back of his neck, ''You''re going out with your brother-inw.''

    "That means I''m going on a date with my brother-inw," replied Hyson. "Besides, we even have a third wheeler on this date."

    Mu Chenyan chuckled at him, "I didn''t know Elle is a third wheeler."

    Yue Yue pinched his ear as she said, ''More like you''re the third wheeler on their date.''

    "Mum, whose side are you on?" asked Hyson. "Xian Ge said he is taking me out. Ellie is just a plus one because he doesn''t want her to feel lonely."

    ''You''re getting ahead of yourself just because Xian values you,'' said Yue Yue.

    "Not everyone has value, mum," argued Hyson. "That means that''s also a talent." Shaking his head, he looked at them and added, "Now, please, help me out."

    Mu Chenyan rubbed his head, "Our Fai is so handsome. He''d even make a sack look like a fashion statement."

    "Are you saying I should wear a sack?"

    Mu Chenyanughed at him, "No, silly!"

    With thisdies'' help, Hyson chose the outfit for the day. It was nothing too shy but it was fashionable. It went perfectly well with his image.

    At the breakfast table, he was the only one eating since the rest already had their breakfast. Only he was the one dragging his timezing around on the bed for too long.

    "Opa, want to eat some?" offered Hyson.

    "You enjoy yourself," said Grandfather Xiang. "I already had breakfast."

    "But I feel too lonely," said Hyson.

    ''Who told you to wake up sote?''

    Hyson looked at his mother, "Why do I feel like you have something against me today?"

    ''You''re overthinking.''

    "I hope so," answered Hyson.

    "Where are you guys going?" inquired Grandfather Xiang as he read the newspaper.

    "That is said to be a surprise for now," said Hyson. "I have no idea where we are going. But it really doesn''t matter. I get to spend a whole day with my best friend and also my brother-inw."

    "That is so like you,"mented Grandfather Xiang. "Anyway, you have fun."

    "How can there be no fun when I''m around, Opa?"

    "Well said." Grandfather Xiang took a pause and added, "While having fun, don''t forget to take care of yourself. Don''t get hurt."

    "Hmm... I''ll take care," answered Hyson.

    "Elder Xiang, he isn''t a kid," reminded Mu Chenyan. "You don''t have to lecture him."

    "It''s not like you don''t do it," Grandfather Xiang shot back.

    Mu Chenyan smiled sheepishly at him, "Well, I do but I don''t n on doing that today. He isn''t going out alone. Xian will be there to take care of him and Elle."

    Hyson looked up at her, "Yanyan, am I and Ellie so untrustworthy to you that you only feel reassured because of Xian Ge''s presence?"

    "You both are still like kids to us," answered Mu Chenyan. "I can only trust Xian since he is a bit more responsible than you two."

    "I suddenly feel offended," muttered Hyson. "But I can''t even argue.." He knew that whether it was him or Raelle, they really couldn''t take care of themselves. But wasn''t it actually the fault of thesedies who pampered them all the time? How else would he have turned out to be so useless when it came to life skills?

 Chapter 391 - Ex-Girlfriends

    *Honk! Honk!*

    Hyson came running out when he heard the horn of the car. Shui Xian had rolled down the window of his car as he waved at him. Hyson opened the door of the back seat and got in like an excited kid.

    pping his knees, he asked, "Xian Ge, where are we going?"

    Shui Xian gave this overly excited kid a look through the rearview mirror as he replied, "You''ll know when we get there."

    "Why don''t you ask me where we are going?" asked Raelle.

    Hyson gave her a look, "Because you don''t have an answer as well."

    "How do you know that?" retorted Raelle. "Maybe I do know. Do you really think my husband won''t tell me?"

    Hyson snorted at that, "If you knew, you''d have long told me about it. You can''t hide anything from me and by now, even Xian Ge has figured it out." Raelle looked at Shui Xian who pursed his lips and nodded at her, agreeing with Hyson''s statement. "See?"

    Raelle pulled out her ck shades and put them on saying, "Let''s hit the road already."

    Shui Xian ignited the engine and pressed down on the elerator as they got on the road. Hyson''s excitement hadn''t gone down even after the drivested for an hour. He was ever so energetically whistling and having the time of his life. However, Raelle''s eyes were stuck to his face as she intently studied what was going on with him.

    From the signboards at the side of the road, Raelle already figured out where they were headed. So, she said to Hyson, "Why don''t you put on your cap? And your sses as well."

    "Why?"

    "Because we are definitely going to a public ce," answered Raelle. "You''ll get recognized."

    Hyson''s lips jutted out. "But my hairstyle will be ruined if I wore the cap. I don''t want to." Suddenly, he saw the gate of the ce of their destination, and his eyes sparkled, "Ah! Xian Ge, we are going to the amusement park?"

    "What going? We are already at the amusement park," replied Shui Xian. As he found a parking spot, he turned to look at Hyson saying, "Didn''t you call me to tell me that you want to go to the amusement park?"

    "You remember that?" asked Hyson.

    "Of course, I do," answered Shui Xian. He lifted his hand to rub his head saying, "As my one and only brother-inw, I need to do my best to spoil you, no? Otherwise, I might upset my wife." Shui Xian looked at Hyson''s face asking, "What? Are you that touched? Are you about to cry?"

    Hyson shook his head as he chuckled, "Sorry to disappoint you. Although I do feel touched, it still can''t make me cry. I definitely am not such a crybaby. Even though I look like it."

    As they got down the car, Hyson found a familiar face leaning against the door of his car right opposite them. Seeing Shui Xian, that person called out, "Hey! Xian! Why did you call me here of all ces?"

    "What''s he doing here?" asked Hyson.

    Shui Xian looked at Zhai Yanjun and answered Hyson''s question first, "Yanjun wanted to take me and Raelle out for a meal today. And I told him we are going out to y with you. He said he''d tag along." Only after exining to Hyson did he answer Zhai Yanjun''s question, "As for why our destination is an amusement park, that''s because our Xiao Fai wanted toe here to y."

    "How old are you?" questioned Zhai Yanjun to Hyson.

    Hyson puffed up his cheeks like an angry cat. "Five! What has it got to do with you?"

    "It''s not about age though," Raelle spoke up. "It''s about personal interest. Since Hyson has never been to an amusement park, he is interested in such a ce. It really has no connection with age."

    Hyson stared at Raelle and hugged her neck saying, "Ellie,st time you also said my age is not appropriate for this ce."

    "That was me," she answered. "Do you think I''d let anyone else point that out?"

    Hyson smiled to himself proudly and contently.

    "Actually, more than age, I thought you''d be sick of this ce already," stated Zhai Yanjun. "Even Xian got sick of amusement parks after all his dates here."

    Shui Xian red at Zhai Yanjun who ignored him.

    Hyson looked at Shui Xian, "Xian Ge, you brought your girlfriend here?"

    "What girlfriend? He brought his girlfriends here," added Zhai Yanjun.

    "Would you just shut up? Don''t make me regret allowing you to tag along," warned Shui Xian.

    "Xian Ge, how many girlfriends did you have?"

    "Not that many," answered Shui Xian. "It was back in middle school. It was such innocent dating where you just hang out together. Nothing serious. Because it never worked out after a couple of dates."

    "What''s innocent dating?" Hyson looked at Raelle inquisitively.

    "How am I supposed to know that?"

    "That''s true, I''m asking the wrong person," stated Hyson and looked at Zhai Yanjun. "What''s innocent dating?"

    "I have had only one rtionship in my life and there was nothing innocent about it. So, you''ll have to ask Xian about that."

    Shui Xian facepalmed himself, "Why do I feel like I''ve dug my own grave?" He took a deep breath and told Hyson, "It''s where you buy snacks, hang out together, take pictures and at the very most hold hands."

    "Your ex-wife wasn''t your first girlfriend?" asked Hyson.

    Shui Xian looked at Raelle who looked disinterested in this conversation as he answered, "No, she wasn''t. She was a good friend of mine. And oftentimes, it is difficult to cross the line between friends and lovers. So, you can say it took a while."

    Hyson sighed out, "Why are rtionships soplicated?" He dragged Raelle towards the entrance of the amusement park saying, "Ellie, we should stay out of theseplications."

    "Why?"

    "Because we are alreadyplicated enough," he retorted.

    Raelle couldn''t possibly argue with that since they were indeed quiteplicated.. There was no doubt about that.

 Chapter 392 - Punishment

    Walking ahead, Hyson extended his hand towards Raelle who stared at his hand for a moment longer before taking it.

    "Put on your sses," she advised him.

    Hyson pulled out a pair of round sses that looked like a replica of Harry Potter''s sses. It made him look like a good student. Cute, innocent, and pleasing to the eyes. In fact, he looked like every girl''s first crush in College. That one senior whom they just couldn''t forget.

    As they followed the crowd of people entering the amusement park, Hyson kept putting himself in between people and Raelle. He didn''t let anyone even bump into her.

    "What is he doing, dancing around Saozi?" asked Zhai Yanjun to Shui Xian.

    Shui Xian''s eyes curved as he answered, "He is protecting her."

    "Huh?" Zhai Yanjun was lost for a moment.

    Shui Xian shook his head and hurried his steps toe to Hyson and Raelle. As he walked beside Raelle, he said to Hyson, "Are you trying to take over my job? She is my wife, I can protect her myself."

    "Your job is to love her," retorted Hyson. "All you have to do is give her the respect she needs. I am still capable of protecting her."

    "What makes you both think that I need protection?" inquired Raelle.

    "That''s what I had been thinking," added Zhai Yanjun from behind. "I believe Saozi is powerful enough on her. She doesn''t need anyone to protect her."

    "There are a lot of people here," Hyson pointed out to Raelle.

    Raelle patted his hand saying, "You''re here to have fun. Not to keep an eye on me."

    Hyson nodded his head and started asking Shui Xian about where to go first. After all, the most experienced person there was Shui Xian.

    Meanwhile, Zhai Yanjun mentioned to Raelle, "Saozi, when I said you''re powerful, I meant it."

    "Oh?" was Raelle''s nd response.

    "Do you remember Major Xiang Wai who took you for the investigation?"

    "I remember," answered Raelle.

    "She is suspended from her duty for a week," told Zhai Yanjun. He was actually taken aback when he learned that the disciplinarymittee called for Xiang Wai. And he was even more surprised to hear about her punishment. The reason given was that she was being reckless by disrupting the civilians which caused panic in people.

    "That''s all?" this question came from Hyson.

    "No," stated Zhai Yanjun. "Since the time she joined the Special Forces, this is her very first time getting demerits as well. Also, her sry for the next six months is also cut as a penalty. Originally, she was supposed to get a promotion after this mission. But now..." he sighed out heavily, "She''s been removed from her position. The mission she had carried for over a year is taken from her now when she almost caught on with that organization. Now, someone else will get the credit for all her hard work."

    "Feeling bad for your ex-girlfriend?" inquired Raelle.

    "It''s nothing like that," Zhai Yanjun waved his handoff. "I was just a little surprised about it."

    "What''s surprising?" asked Hyson. "She was being impulsive and reckless by taking everyone from the clubhouse."

    "Honestly speaking, I have seen a lot of people getting away from even bigger messes caused by their impulses in the military. And if it was any other time, Major Xiang would have never gotten into this trouble. This definitely happened because she caused trouble to Saozi." He knew that Special Forces had a lot more authority than them and they even held special privileges as well. That''s why Major Xiang''s punishment seemed out of ordinary to everyone. Even therade who told him about all of this said that Major Xiang must have offended someone she shouldn''t have.

    Raelle gave Hyson a look who chuckled softly, "I still think Yanyan went easy on her." He shrugged his shoulders saying, "But it''s a good thing that she is still our Yanyan. I''d have been mad if she stayed quiet." For Hyson or Raelle, it was nothing new that Mu Chenyan would step up to protect them or even do things excessively. And Mu Chenyan had done things so excessively before that this kind of result seemed too easy for them.

    "Do you think this is a light punishment?" asked Zhai Yanjun in surprise. "I believe you''re not understanding what her work means to her. She is way too casual about life. I don''t remember her taking anything seriously in her life except for her job. So, I think this punishment is quite cruel."

    "I thought you didn''t care about her," Shui Xian ced his hand on Zhai Yanjun''s shoulder.

    "Her work is important and others'' isn''t?" said Hyson. "Do you know how many hours Ellie lost because of her? Three! Do you know how much Ellie can earn in those three hours? Millions! Do you realize how much of a loss is it?"

    Raelle held the back of Hyson''s neck and turned it towards the rollercoaster, "Stop being angry for me."

    Hyson looked at her face and took a deep breath to calm himself. He was, in fact, feeling quite angry. He suddenly turned around and looked at Zhai Yanjun saying, "Give a message to your ex-girlfriend for me. She better not pull such a stunt on my best friend again. I''ll kill her otherwise."

    Raelle pinched a strand of his hair between his fingers and gave him a tug saying, "You can''t even step on an ant. Stop acting heroically already."

    Hyson red at Raelle, "Do you have to spoil my image like this?"

    "Do you have an image to keep?" retorted Raelle.

    "You''re way too protective,"mented Zhai Yanjun. "But I suddenly feel like passing on your message to Wai. It''d be fun to see how she reacts to it."

    "Are you all gonna argue standing here?" asked Shui Xian. "Let''s stand in the line or we''ll have to wait even longer."

    Raelle held his arm and Hyson''s arm and said, "Okay, let''s go."

 Chapter 393 - Nonsense

    Hyson was really like a kid when he got to enjoy the variety of rides and games. He didn''t look like he''d stop anytime soon. He was still over the moon.

    As always he managed to turn Raelle into his personal photographer for the day. She''d click the photo whenever he said so without a word. And she also followed him everywhere withoutining. Even if amusement parks weren''t the kind of ce she''d usually go, she still followed him around.

    Only after seeing them like this did Shui Xian realize why Mu Chenyan worried about these two so much and treated them like kids. It had been past lunchtime and yet, these two didn''t even remember that they had to eat something.

    "Why don''t we take a break and eat something now?" suggested Shui Xian.

    Zhai Yanjun nodded his head, "Yes, please!" He ced his hand over his stomach saying, "I''m really hungry now." He usually didn''t even feel this tired after a day of drilling on the grounds under the hot sun. But now he was exhausted following around two excited kids. No, it''d be right to say that Hyson was the excited kid, Raelle was just... Raelle.

    Hyson looked at something saying, "But I want to y that."

    "We''ll y itter," said Shui Xian and dragged him to get some food first. "What do you want to eat?"

    Hyson looked at the menu and answered, "Pizza!"

    "No," Raelle refused immediately.

    "What no? I said pizza, it''s pizza! No more discussion!"

    Raelle stared at him and said again, "No! It''s unhealthy."

    Hyson rolled his head dramatically, "Ellie, it''s okay if it''s unhealthy. By eating unhealthy food, we are serving the people."

    "Serving the people?" questioned Raelle. "Please exin your nonsense."

    Hyson smiled at her, "Look at it in this way... By buying the pizza, I''m contributing to the staff of this restaurant who are earning from it. And if by eating this unhealthy food, I get sick, then I''ll have to see the doctor. And that also means I''ll be contributing to the doctor in earning his patient fee. Once I see the doctor, the doctor will also write some prescriptions for me. When I buy the medicine, I''m contributing to the pharmacist. In the end, am I not serving the people by contributing to the economy."

    Both Zhai Yanjun and Shui Xian stared at Hyson with a strange look in their eyes. They couldn''t help it. This was the first time for them to hear such detailed nonsense just because the other person wanted to eat pizza. Like what?

    On the other hand, Raelle wasn''t impressed by his nonsense at all.

    "Stop being stubborn," she said to him.

    "Ellie, it''s you who is being stubborn," he shot back. "If we don''t eat unhealthy food, the doctors will have no patients! Isn''t that too pitiful?"

    "All this nonsense just for pizza?" she questioned.

    "I won''t stop unless you say yes," he smiled at her sweetly.

    "Fine," she agreed. "Have it your way!"

    Hyson smirked at that proudly, "Between you and I, it''s always my way."

    Zhai Yanjun leaned towards Shui Xian saying, "He really has your wife in his grasp."

    "I know," answered Shui Xian as he shook his head and ordered the pizza for Hyson.

    "Fai," Zhai Yanjun called out. "Is this really your first time at an amusement park?"

    Hyson nodded his head, "Yeah! It''s Ellie''s first time as well."

    Zhai Yanjun gave them strange looks as he asked, "What have you both been doing all your childhood?"

    "Studying," answered Raelle.

    "ying piano," was Hyson''s answer. "Since my mum used to teach some kids how to y piano, it became an inseparable part of my life."

    Zhai Yanjun pursed his lips when he heard that. Then he asked, "It seems you both had been working hard for your life."

    "You can''t expect everyone''s starting point to be the same," said Hyson.

    "That''s true," agreed Zhai Yanjun.

    "Ellie, let me see the photos," Hyson snatched back his phone from her and scrolled through the gallery. Looking at a bunch of Shui Xian''s photos, he stared at Raelle and said, "Your camera really loves Xian Ge."

    "He looked pleasing to my eye," said Raelle.

    "He sure is pleasing to your eye," retorted Hyson. Then he turned towards the photos again andmented, "But I have to say, he does look good." He looked up at Shui Xian and asked, "Xian Ge when was thest time you came to the amusement park?"

    Shui Xian had a thoughtful look on his face, "It was in college I think. Our ss went on a graduation trip and we found a water park there. So, we had loads of fun."

    Hyson nodded his head, "I hardly even had the time to attend my sses because I had already debuted at that time."

    "Excuse me!"

    Hearing that soft voice, Hyson turned around to see a girl standing there shyly. She didn''t even dare to look straight at him and kept fixing her sses on her face.

    "Yes?" replied Hyson.

    "Can I get an autograph?" she asked, nervously clutching her skirt.

    "You recognized the wrong person," Hyson went with the same lie he had been going with since the time they entered the amusement park at noon.

    The teenage girl bit her lips and raised her head slightly to look at him saying, "I know it''s you. I promise I won''t say anything, I just really want an autograph."

    "She is asking so nicely," he heard Raelle saying. "Don''t be rude."

    Hyson gave his best friend a look before extending his hand towards the girl to take the notepad and the pen. He signed it and gave it back to her.

    "You should take a picture with her as well," instructed Raelle and Hyson looked at her wide-eyed.

    "Can I?" The teenage girl''s eyes were sparkling at him. It was so bright that Hyson couldn''t really turn her down and nodded his head.

    They clicked a picture and the girl continued to bow down to him to express her thanks. She looked like she was over the moon.

    "Don''t worry, I won''t post this photo anywhere. I just want to keep it."

    "I don''t mind you sharing as long as you don''t it today," he answered.

    When Hyson sat back down with Raelle, he asked, "When did you be so nice?"

 Chapter 394 - Lemonade

    "Nice?" questioned Raelle in return. "I wasn''t being nice." She took a pause and exined to him, "Didn''t you notice how much courage she had to gather beforeing to you?" She took a sip of the water and added, "It''s okay to say no. But it''s not okay to discourage her."

    Hyson took a deep breath and didn''t say anything to her. He tapped the tabletop and continued to stare at the menu before him. Suddenly, something caught his eye and he slid the menu towards Raelle, "Which one do you want to drink? I''ll get it for you."

    Raelle looked at the drinks menu intently but didn''t answer.

    Hyson narrowed down her choices with, "Orange juice or lemonade?"

    "Anything works," she responded disinterestedly.

    Hyson shook his head, "That''s not how it''s gonna work. You have to choose one on your own."

    Raelle randomly put her finger on orange juice, "This one."

    Hyson pped her hand away.

    "What?"

    Hyson narrowed his eyes at her, "Don''t be so casual about you. Pick the one you want to drink. I''m not ordering unless you choose the one you really want."

    "How am I supposed to know which one I want?" she retorted. "It''s just a drink. Do I have to spend my brain energy on this too?"

    "Pick!" was all that he said.

    "Saozi, just pick your favorite drink," suggested Zhai Yanjun.

    "What if I have no favorites?"

    Zhai Yanjun paused and said, "Then choose the one you most drink."

    "Water then," answered Raelle as she looked at Hyson. "Does that work?"

    "No," was Hyson''s reply.

    Raelle took a while to decide but Hyson was being very patient with her. It was just a drink for others but for Raelle it was a choice that seemed impossible. After all, she had no favorites and she really didn''t feel like drinking any particr drink.

    Only after the pizza was served that Raelle say, "Lemonade."

    Hyson smiled at her and nodded, "Okay, I''ll get it for you."

    Hyson went to get the lemonade for her while Raelle got a call and excused herself. As Zhai Yanjun took a sip of his drink, he looked at Shui Xian and asked, "Have you ever had a friendship like them?"

    "Not really," answered Shui Xian.

    Zhai Yanjun sighed out, "It''s hard to understand their friendship, no?"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "Not really. It''s simple."

    "How?"

    "Have you heard that friends often be the second family for life?" asked Shui Xian. "Their friendship has gone past the definition of what we call family. It''s just as Hyson said, they are soulmates. They connect on a different level." He scrolled through the photos that he clicked today which consisted of his sneak shots of Raelle.

    Amusement parks are a fun ce and usually one would find people with huge smiles on their faces in this ce. But he found it amusing how Ralle was the only one unaffected by this happy atmosphere. She was still like she was in her whole world. Even if the whole world was colored in pink, she still had a bubble of her own surrounding her that set her apart from the rest.

    Hyson came back with the lemonade and started eating the pizza he had fought for.

    "Aren''t you worried about your weight?" asked Zhai Yanjun. "Don''t idols usually pay attention to that?"

    Hyson munched down the slice of pizza before telling him, "I have gained a lot of weight by eating too much at home these days. This much is no big deal."

    Hyson was fully focused on eating while Shui Xian and Zhai Yanjun talked about random things to catch up. All of a sudden, Shui Xian inquired, "Are you worried about your ex-girlfriend?"

    "Why would I be?" retorted Zhai Yanjun.

    "The way you talked earlier, I thought you must be worried," Shui Xian pointed out.

    "I''m not worried though," he stressed on his words. "I was a bit surprised when I heard about it but nothing else. Besides, it''s not like I can help her. Neither does she need my help. She never did." He recalled something and told Shui Xian, "Oh, but thest time when we talked, she seemed quite curious about your wife."

    "Huh?" Shui Xian raised his brow at him.

    On the other side, Hyson''s movement paused slightly when he heard that. He started eating again like nothing happened when Raelle came back.

    "Is everything okay?" asked Shui Xian to Raelle.

    "Yeah," she replied. Then she said to Hyson, "Eat fast. I just heard that there is gonna be a parade soon. Don''t you want to watch it?"

    "What? Really?" asked Hyson in surprise. "Then I should really hurry up now." But eating in silence was not really his thing, so found a target to talk to, "Hey, Captain! Don''t you want to spend your free days at home?" He nom-nom-ed on his pizza slice as he added, "Thest time you had a day free, you went to the hospital to check up on Lieutenant. And today, you actually wanted to go out with Xian Ge and Ellie. When I have a free day, I don''t even wanna go out of the house. Isn''t itfortable to roll around on your bed or eat delicious food made by my mum or Yanyan?"

    Zhai Yanjun smiled at his words saying, "Not everyone has someone waiting at home for them." He took a deep breath, "And not everyone is lucky enough to enjoy that delicious food."

    "Then your house must be really depressing," stated Hyson straightforwardly.

    Zhai Yanjun stared at him and nodded his head, "Indeed, it''s depressing. There is no sunshine like you there."

    "Thanks for thepliment!" said Hyson cheekily. "And sorry if I said something to spoil your mood."

    Zhai Yanjun shook his head, "You didn''t spoil anything. What you said was just the truth." He offered Hyson a reassuring smile. He couldn''t have said it any better though.. His house was really depressing. Why else would he have wanted to escape it so badly?

 Chapter 395 - Sweeter

    "You stay here," instructed Hyson to Raelle. "I''lle back after watching the parade."

    "Then I''ll stay here with her," said Shui Xian.

    "Of course," said Hyson.

    "You," Shui Xian pointed at Zhai Yanjun. "Go with Fai and don''t let him get hurt in the crowd."

    "I''m not that fragile though," grumbled Hyson.

    "Let''s go," Zhai Yanjun didn''t give him a chance to refuse again as he held his shoulder and pushed him.

    Raelle watched them leave and turn to Shui Xian, "Why did you ask Zhai Yanjun toe?"

    "Didn''t I tell you?"

    "And you think Hyson and I fell for your lie?"

    Shui Xian pressed his lips together before shaking his head, "It''s true that he called me because he wanted to take us out for a meal that he promised you. As for why I allowed him toe here with us, it''s because he wanted to get close to Fai. Since it''s not easy for him to have free time or have an excuse toe and find Fai, I just helped him out a little." He looked at Raelle cautiously, "Did I do something wrong?"

    Raelle looked into his eyes, "No. That''s not what I meant."

    "It''s good as long as you don''t think that I did something wrong," Shui Xian breathed a sigh of relief. After a moment, he mentioned, "I didn''t think Fai would be so happy toe here."

    "It''s not that difficult to make him happy," replied Raelle. "He seems like aplicated person but that doesn''t change the fact that Hyson''s happinesses easily. Even if you won''t offer it, he''ll find a way to happiness on his own."

    "Do you want to eat something else?" inquired Shui Xian. "Something sweet, maybe?"

    "Why don''t you just say that you feel like wanting to eat something sweet? Do you have to use me as an excuse?"

    Shui Xianughed gently, "My wife really knows me, eh!" He stood up and said, "Then I''m gonna get something. I''ll be right back with you."

    Raelle was left alone to observe everything around her. Her eyes continued to look around at everyone and everything. She watched families walking around, a group of friends who came to hang out, she could even see couples holding hands. Her eyes finally settled on her husband who was walking back to her side when her eyes caught his gaze, he smiled at her.

    He put the tray down and sat beside her. With a fork, he took some cheesecake and brought it to her lips, "Say ahhh!"

    Raelle followed his lead and parted her lips.

    "Is it good?" he questioned.

    "Good," she answered right away.

    "That was such a perfunctory reply," he was amused by it. He kissed her cheek saying, "But I guess, that''s just you." Then he shoved the fork in her hand saying, "Now, my turn. I also want to eat it."

    "Then eat," she replied.

    "Don''t be like that," Shui Xian shook her arm. "I just fed you, can''t you do that for me?"

    "But you can eat it yourself," she said. "So, why should I bother?"

    Shui Xian pouted at her pitifully. Raelle didn''t know why she did it though. She clearly had no problem with feeding him. It was no big deal. Then why did she tease him? This was called teasing, no? Why did she suddenly do it?

    Eventually, she really fed him the cake which he happily ate.

    "Is it delicious?" she asked him in the way that he did earlier.

    "Delicious but..." His eyes moved her lips as he licked his lips saying, "But you definitely taste better. You''re just delightful!" Raelle nodded and was about to turn her head away when he held her face and kissed her. He really just kissed her hard right there. As he pulled back after a good minute, he whispered against her lips, "I believe this kiss was sweet for both of us, no?"

    Raelle licked her lips as she stared at him, "The cake was sweet."

    "And that made the kiss sweeter," he told her with a cheeky smile on his handsome face.

    "How old are you?" asked Raelle.

    "You already know," he replied.

    "I do," she said. "But I feel like you keep forgetting what your age is. Is it really okay to be so shameless?"

    "Baby, don''t you know?" Raelle looked into his eyes waiting for what he had to say. "When a person is in love, he starts aging backward. I feel young when I''m around you."

    "Oh-Okay," was her response.

    Shui Xian continued to eat the cake but didn''t forget to feed her as well.

    "I noticed the choctes from the bedside drawer are gone," mentioned Raelle. "You didn''t restock it? Do you want me to buy some for you?"

    Shui Xian smiled at her lovingly and pinched her nose, "You really have eyes everywhere." He drank his ice coffee saying, "Choctes have lost their original purpose so I didn''t restock them."

    "Original purpose?" repeated Raelle.

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "Yup! The purpose was to bring sweetness into my life but now I have you. As I said, you''re definitely sweeter than anything else."

    Raelle didn''t know how to respond to such sweet words. He definitely was too good at flirting.

    "But," he hugged her waist with one arm. "If you''re the one buying some choctes for me, I''d love that for sure."

    Raelle thought about it before nodding her head, "Okay. I''ll get you some then." She wasn''t just saying it though. She had already ced an order for the choctes that he usually kept in his drawer. Since it was shipped from overseas, it was gonna arrive in a couple of days.

    "I''ll be waiting," he replied happily.

    He originally wasn''t that fond of sweet things. It was only after his divorce that someone suggested he try eating something sweeter because he was having anger management issues. The smallest of things would tick him off. Surprisingly, choctes actually worked in some bizarre way. But now he didn''t need it anymore.

    Raelle worked better on him than any chocte.

 Chapter 396 - Wish

    "Why are you looking at me?" questioned Hyson to Zhai Yanjun who had been staring at him for a long time now. While Hyson was paying attention to the parade, Zhai Yanjun''s attention was still on Hyson''s face. Hyson got so annoyed by it at this point. Getting into his dramatic act almost instantly, Hyson took a step away from him and held his arm in front of his body saying, "Are you by any chance in love me with?"

    Zhai Yanjun choked on his saliva at his choice of words. He couldn''t help it. "What?!"

    Hyson flicked his hair away from his forehead saying, "Although I know I''m handsome, charming, adorable at times, however, you should give up. This love is bound to fail."

    Zhai Yanjun covered his mouth with his hand saying, "Shut up!" He had to take several deep breaths to calm himself as he said, "Don''t you think before speaking?"

    Hyson shrugged his shoulders as he pped his hand away from his mouth and said, "I say what I want to say. I don''t have a habit of keeping everything buried inside me like you."

    Zhai Yanjun paused when he heard those words and stared at Hyson.

    Hyson pointed ta his face, "There! You''re doing it again! Stop looking or you''ll really fall in love. Then don''te crying to me."

    Zhai Yanjun chuckled at his antics and said, "I''m looking at you because I wish to understand you. I feel like I can''t read you at all." He lowered his eyes as he added, "And I''m wondering why you aren''t nice to me? Aren''t you normally an easy-going person? Why do you get so prickly around me? You even sound more familiar with Weimin Ge than me."

    "Do you really want to know?" asked Hyson.

    "I do," he replied.

    "My words won''t sound nice to you," warned Hyson upfront.

    "I can take it," he answered.

    "Then here it is... I simply wish you have never appeared in my life," said Hyson. Hearing those words Zhai Yanjun''s face paled. That feeling of being unwanted was bursting out all over again. Meanwhile, Hyson continued, "Don''t get me wrong, I really have nothing against you. It''s just that your appearance is like a wake-up call. It''s a reminder that the peace in my mum''s life is not meant for a lifetime. She''d have to scratch those past scars all over again. And I don''t like that. Anything that poses even the possibility of hurting my mum, I don''t like it."

    "I thought..." Zhai Yanjun was having difficulty forming his words. "I thought you''re okay with meing to see Ayi. You said it to mest time."

    "I''m okay with that," said Hyson. "I told you, as long as your presence makes her happy, I''m okay with that. These are two different things. It''s not like I need to remind you that if your family got to know about my mum, it''s gonna be my mum who is gonna get hurt."

    "You don''t have to hate me for that."

    "I don''t hate you," said Hyson. "Hate is a tiring job. I don''t like things that make me feel tired. I even don''t like feeling that makes you feel tired. This is why I stay away from love and hate. Both are exhausting emotions. Not my cup of tea."

    "You seem to love Raelle though," Zhai Yanjun couldn''t help pointing that out.

    "Because loving her is the easiest thing to do," he told him. "With Ellie, I don''t have to waste my time exining things. I don''t have to waste my energy thinking about what she meant. And I definitely don''t have to doubt her feelings." He smiled at Zhai Yanjun as he added, "That''s why it''s very easy to love her. Because it''s very natural."

    "Is it really as easy as you say?"

    "It is," stressed Hyson. "Now, you tell me what do you want from me?"

    "I just want you to be a little nice to me," said Zhai Yanjun. "I told you I want to really be your cousin. No, I want to be your big brother. I''ve never had a brother. So, I know I''m not good at it but I''m willing to try. I might not be the best brother out there, but I promise you that I won''t be leaving your side."

    "You''re really annoying,"mented Hyson. "Can''t we just go back to our lives? I really don''t need a brother."

    "What if it''s me who needs a brother?" asked Zhai Yanjun. "I know you don''t want one. But I do. I really do."

    "Argh! Bloody chicken nugget!" Hyson cursed by himself before looking at Zhai Yanjun standing there waiting for an answer. "I want to punch you so badly right now."

    "Go ahead," said Zhai Yanjun.

    "What?" Hyson was shocked momentarily.

    "I said, go ahead! You can punch me. I won''t dodge," promised Zhai Yanjun. "In fact, you can punch me for as long as you want if that makes you ept my presence in your life. I''m willing to be your punching bag for today."

    Hysonughed dryly, "I don''t like violence. I''m a peace-loving guy."

    "I already know that." Hyson looked up at him as he continued, "I knew you won''t use violence. That''s just not you. Even if you''re frustrated, you won''t take out your frustration by hitting people."

    "Oh, you think you have me figured out all ready now?"

    Zhai Yanjun shook his head, "No, I just had that feeling."

    Hyson punched his stomach saying, "Well, never trust your feelings again." And then he swaggered away.

    Zhai Yanjunughed out behind him because Hyson''s punch was so light that even a kid won''t feel it. He just threw the punch to prove his point. What pettiness! But it only made Hyson seem cuter.

    "What?" Hyson turned his head to look at him. "Aren''t youing now or should I leave you behind?"

    "I''ming," Zhai Yanjun ran over to his side hurriedly.

 Chapter 397 - Treat

    "Did you enjoy it?" Shui Xian''s question was directed towards Hyson who had juste back and slumped down on the chair.

    "It was good," replied Hyson in a rather dull voice.

    "That really didn''t sound good though," Shui Xian pointed it out. He had to do it since he felt like Hyson''s tone made his words sound not that credible.

    Hyson looked at Shui Xian saying, "No, it was really good Xian Ge but I got tired standing there."

    Shui Xian and even Zhai Yanjun raised their brows at him in surprise. "Haven''t you been jumping around since morning? Why didn''t I hear you say that you''re tired before this?"

    "There is a difference in jumping around all over the ce and standing at just one ce," Raelle decided to chime in to solve this mystery for the two men.

    "Bingo!" said Hyson. "As expected! Only my Ellie knows it best." He turned to the two of them as he borated, "Standing at one ce is way too tiring than running around. I get moldy standing at the same ce for more than five minutes."

    Both Shui Xian and Zhai Yanjun looked at each other and found saw amusement dancing in the other''s eyes. It couldn''t be helped though. It was their first time meeting someone like Hyson. He wasn''t ashamed to say out loud that he wholeheartedly was a Mama''s boy. He wasn''t afraid to ruin his idol image by showing howzy and unkempt he could be. Also, he was always vocal about his feelings. He was tall and handsome. He looked quite manly but he still had this weird ability to act cute whenever he wanted to.

    It didn''t even look out of ce when acted like a cute baby. It was almost like it was natural. He was passionate about what he did. He cared wholeheartedly for people he called family. He was way too loyal. And was very protective of his people.

    "By standing there, my battery is drained," Hyson let them know.

    "Then what should we do to help you recharge?" questioned Shui Xian with interest.

    "Nothing much," replied Hyson shyly.

    "All you have to do is give him attention," added Raelle. Hyson pointed at her as if saying listen to her while she went on, "As he says himself, he is like Tinkerbell. All he needs to survive is attention."

    Shui Xian and Zhai Yanjun burst outughing when they heard it.

    "I wonder how did someone like you ended up bing an idol?" asked Zhai Yanjun. "Did you do it for attention?"

    "No," answered Hyson. "I did for money."

    "Huh?" Zhai Yanjun was surprised to hear that answer.

    "I joined this circle not because I was passionate about singing, it was because I wanted to earn money to provide for my mother as soon as possible," Hyson exined himself. "Back then, the only thought on my mind was that I wanted my mum to stop working so hard."

    "He is telling you the truth," Raelle added for Hyson when she noticed the way the other two were looking at Hyson. And when their questioning eyes shifted to her, she went on, "Even if he has a rich friend, do you really think he''d ask for help?"

    "Who said I won''t?" Hyson immediately went against her words. "I want ice cream. Help me buy it. Buy it. Buy it! Buy it already!"

    Raelle pped her credit card on his lips saying, "That''s enough."

    Hyson grinned at her and got up to get himself an ice cream. But stopped at asked the others, "Does anyone else want to eat ice cream? I know Ellie doesn''t want it. What about you two? If you want it, give me the money, I''ll get it for you." He smiled at them innocently, "Don''t expect I''ll buy it from this credit card. Only I can use Ellie''s money for ice creams."

    "You can just treat them with your own money," said Raelle.

    "Oh, yeah!" Hyson knocked on his own head. "I can also do that. Then I''ll be right back."

    "He is really something else," remarked Zhai Yanjun.

    "Is he?" questioned Raelle. "He seems fine to me."

    "That''s because you''re biased," said Zhai Yanjun.

    "Am I?"

    "Of course," stressed Zhai Yanjun.

    Shui Xian stroked Raelle''s head saying, "Yanjun is right. You''re biased when ites to Hyson."

    "Is it bad?" she asked.

    Shui Xian shook his head at her, "Definitely not."

    "Saozi, I''m purely curious here," started Zhai Yanjun. "I know you''re one of the richest women in the world but do you usually give your credit card to just anyone?"

    "No," answered Raelle. "Only Hyson uses my credit card to buy ice cream always."

    "In the end, what he buys is ice cream?"

    "Ice cream is his go-to snack," said Raelle. "Whether he is tired, sad, happy, serious or whatever, he just needs ice cream. But since Yue Yue doesn''t let him eat much, he uses me to get his way."

    "He has really kept the kid inside of him alive," said Zhai Yanjun.

    Hyson brought the ice creams and sat down to enjoy. He passed her credit card back to her saying, "I only bought mine with this." He pointed at the other two ice creams with his spoon, "Those two are my treat."

    "You paid for our two but couldn''t pay for one of yours?" questioned Shui Xian.

    "Oh, paying for yours means I''m treating you," said Hyson. "But if I pay for mine it means I''m treating myself. And who does that? Only lonely people treat themselves. But I still have someone who is willing to treat me with her money. So, why should I pay?"

    "When my wife said you love to talk nonsense, I was highly suspicious but now, I see what she meant." Shui Xian shook his head and ate the ice cream that was Hyson''s treat.

    "You''re just jealous that Ellie didn''t pay for yours," Hyson shot back at him like a kid.

    Shui Xian chuckled at him, "Okay, I am jealous. Alright?"

    Hyson shrugged proudly, "Well, it can''t be helped then."

 Chapter 398 - Too Hard

    "Let''s get moving now," Hyson was finally all set to start jumping around again.

    "You recharged yourself?" asked Shui Xian.

    "Definitely!"

    Hyson tried a couple of rides before he decided to check the stalls and y games. He found a stall where one had to throw stic hoops on the thing they wanted. He immediately pulled out his cash to y.

    The other three were just there to cheer him up. At least, that''s what Shui Xian and Zhai Yanjun did. Unknowingly, they had started treating Hyson like a kid who needed their attention and encouragement.

    Obviously, Hyson had no problem with that.

    He threw the three hoops he got and actually managed to win an action figure, a key chain, and a bracelet. He threw three rings and managed to win back three things. Feeling proud, he said, "Don''t I seem too powerful right now?"

    "Very!"

    Raelle stared at these two men who seemed to be indulging Hyson way too much right now. Was there really a need to give him apliment? She didn''t think so. Wasn''t it just aiming at random things? With the precise calction of distance and knowing how much force to apply on the wrist while throwing the hoop, anyone could win this game.

    "You don''t even have to say," were Hyson''s words to Raelle. "I know you find it too easy."

    "Do you think it was difficult?" questioned Raelle in return.

    "No," he answered honestly.

    "Then stop showing off," said Raelle.

    "I was gonna give this action figure to you but now, I''m gonna keep it to myself."

    "It''s not even real," she pointed out.

    "So what? I won it! It has more significance than the one bought with money," he told her.

    "Technically, you also used the money to buy it. Didn''t you pay to y the game?"

    Hyson red at her, "It still has a sense of victory!" He ignored her and went to Shui Xian, "Xian Ge, this bracelet is for you. Let''s say it''s our friendship band. Do you like it?"

    "Of course, I do," answered Shui Xian readily.

    Hyson looked back at Raelle, "See that? That''s how you''re supposed to act like a human!"

    Raelle nodded her head, "You''re the one who said I am a robot. How can you expect me to act like a human?"

    "You really have an answer for everything, no?"

    "Isn''t that obvious?"

    Hyson took a deep breath to calm himself and gave the key chain to Zhai Yanjun who was taken aback. "You, take this. I don''t need it."

    "He means since you have been apanying him since morning, he wants to give you something to show his gratitude," Raelle tranted Hyson''s words for Zhai Yanjun.

    Hyson looked away from Zhai Yanjun pretending to be cool, as he said, "Yeah, what she just said."

    Zhai Yanjun''s lips stretched into a beautiful arc as he held that key chain in his hand and said, "Thank you!"

    "It''s okay," Hyson shrugged his shoulder still acting cool.

    While trying different games, they finally arrived at a stall for shooting targets. Hyson again tried it out but this time, he failed. He could only aim once and even that didn''t drop the target.

    "Shooting is different than throwing hoops," said Zhai Yanjun and stepped up. He stood beside Hyson and patiently instructed him. "It''s easier to shoot these rubber bullets with this gun but the real guns take a lot more effort." He told Hyson when Hyson finally managed to hit the target like he wanted to.

    He jumped up excitedly and punched Zhai Yanjun intimately, "You''re good at it. Of course, I also have talent but I won''t take away your credit as well. You''re a good instructor."

    Zhai Yanjun looked at Hyson with gentle eyes as he nodded his head, "Thanks for thepliment. If you like shooting, I can take you to the shooting range some time."

    "Do you even have time?" asked Hyson in return.

    "Well, I can find some time," said Zhai Yanjun already trying to calcte how much time he could make for Hyson. Since he really wanted to get close to him, he felt like he had to make an effort on his own.

    "Aren''t you a battalionmander or something like that?" questioned Hyson.

    "I can still take some time," Zhai Yanjun insisted on that point.

    Shui Xian patted Zhai Yanjun''s shoulder as hemented, "You''re trying too hard."

    Zhai Yanjun pressed his lips together as he had nothing to say to that.

    "If you really want to take Hyson out to the shooting range," started Raelle. "You''ll first have to take permission from Yue." Hyson''s shoulders slumped down as his excitement just flew away. How could he forget that? His mother would never allow him to go anywhere remotely dangerous. And ying with guns was definitely dangerous. "Also, you''ll have to do it within the next few days since Hyson has to rejoin the crew for shooting as well."

    "Saozi, why does it feel like you know about Fai''s schedule more than him?"

    "That''s because Ellie knows everything," Hyson said in a sing-song voice. "She knows what goes around her but she doesn''t know what goes inside of her. If only she could process her feelings the way she processed everything else in her life."

    His words had no effect on Raelle who just reminded him, "It''s getting dark."

    Hyson had already noticed that it was getting dark. In the end, he really spent the whole day in the amusement park.

    "There is gonna be a fireworks show in an hour," said Shui Xian.

    "Nah!" said Hyson. "Not interested in that. Let''s leave now."

    "Then let''s go and have dinner," Zhai Yanjun joined the conversation. "I''ve already booked the ce. We just have to go there." He looked at Raelle and added, "And Saozi, it''s homemade food and they have strict hygienic environments. You can eat at peace."

    "Let''s have dinner then," Raelle also agreed.. "It''s gonna take a while to get to there as well."

 Chapter 399 - Flattered

    "Where is Jun?" asked Zhai Kuijun as he nced at his parents who sat down at the dining table, ready for dinner.

    "Ah-Yan called to say he won''t be having dinner at home," answered Grandmother Zhai to her son. Then she nced over at Xiang Weimin who just came home today, "Weimin, I especially had this nourishing soup prepared for you. It''s good for your health. You must be tired of eating the hospital food already."

    Xiang Weimin smiled politely at her, "Thank you, Grandma Zhai."

    "You also eat whatever you like Xiao Wai," added Grandfather Zhai to Xiang Wai. "Don''t be shy here."

    "I wasn''t shy, to begin with," responded Xiang Wai in her typical way.

    It was this attitude of hers that got on Grandmother Zhai''s nerves. In fact, it was right to say that from a young age, Xiang Wai had never been the elders'' favorite. She was just not the kind of person elders like. She wasn''t obedient, she wasn''t that polite either, she was reckless in life, she liked everything that screamed danger, she was too casual in life and she''d never respect you just because you''re an elder.

    If you said something that doesn''t sit well with her, she''d end up pointing it out even if you''re an elder.

    And it was because of these elders of Zhai Yanjun that she never allowed their rtionship to go public. She believed Zhai Yanjun''s family situation wasplicated and tricky. She was not interested in dealing with anyone. This was the reason why Grandfather Zhai ended up setting a blind date of Zhai Yanjun with Raelle.

    Actually, both these grandparents somehow knew that their grandson was dating someone. But during the time they set the blind date, it was clear to anyone that he had a breakup. However, if they knew that he actually dated Raelle''s elder sister, they would have never set that blind date for him. In this way, it was a blessing that Zhai Yanjun never even went to the blind date.

    Xiang Wai had juste to the Zhai family house with Xiang Weimin as she was apanying him on his ride from the hospital. She wanted to leave after settling Xiang Weimin up but Zhai Kuijun asked her to stay for dinner since she was already here now.

    Since Zhai Kuijun and Xiang Hulin had been friends for years now, Xiang Wai was quite familiar with him. And that''s why she decided to just stay even if it was to save face for her own father.

    Even though she could see that Zhai Yanjun''s grandparents weren''t that fond of her, it never bothered her. It didn''t bother even now as she ate as she wanted to do so. Why would she ruin her own appetite to amodate someone''s mood? For people like them, it was already a luxury to have such warm meals. If she spent it looking at who liked her and who didn''t, she might just die from hunger.

    "Enjoying yourself?" questioned Xiang Weimin in a low voice to his sister who sat beside him.

    "Shhh..." Xiang Wai clearly showed her attitude by asking him to stay quiet. "I''m eating."

    Xiang Weimin shook his head at her. She really couldn''t see anything before the food. He was feeling second-hand embarrassment because of the way she ate. No, she wasn''t a sloppy eater. But she ate very diligently and with much enthusiasm. No one else ate as much at the table as she alone did.

    Zhai Kuijun wasn''t surprised but his parents were. They never really had a meal with her, so it was their first time seeing her eating. It was quite a sight. In fact, it seemed like anyone would start feeling hungry just watching her. That''s how much she seemed to be enjoying her food.

    After dinner, Xiang Wai was in a hurry to leave. Xiang Weimin used his crutches to walk her out. Even if she said it wasn''t needed, he insisted and followed her out.

    "Ge, there is no need to tire yourself," said Xiang Wai even when they stepped out of the house.

    "Didn''t I repeatedly tell you to mind your table manners when others are around?"

    Xiang Wai looked at her brother in discontent, "Don''t all army people have bigger appetites? What''s wrong with that? We just need more stamina so we eat bigger portions."

    "What am I supposed to do with you?" Xiang Weimin said in worry.

    "You don''t have to do anything," she answered. "I''m an adult. I can take care of myself. You don''t have to think about what to do with me."

    As she yed with her car key, Xiang Weimin continued to stare at the side of her face intently. "Howe you have so much time on your hand these days?"

    She lost her grip on her car key and it fell down. Trying to act casual about it, she responded, "What do you mean?"

    "You havee to see me twice in the same week," he pointed out. "I''m almost ttered."

    "Isn''t it justing to see my own brother?"

    "Oh, is it?" he spoke in a strange sarcastic tone. "Let''s not forget that since the time you and I joined the military academy, we met each other once in the whole month. And when you joined Special Forces, I didn''t even hear back from your side for months much less seeing you in person. But now after almost a decade, you''reing to see me twice in the same week. Do you think I won''t find it odd?"

    Even Xiang Wai had no idea what to say to that. It was indeed true that they rarely met each other. Because of the nature of their jobs, they both hardly even had time to call each other. And if they talked over the phone more than once in a week even that''d be considered rare for them.. No wonder he felt something was up now that she had time toe to see him, all of a sudden.

 Chapter 400 - Just Some Tea

    "You told me that your current mission is in a highly sensitive period," stated Xiang Weimin ignoring her silence. "So, I''m surprised that you found the time toe and see me."

    Xiang Wai had yet to tell her brother that she had been suspended from her duty. And also, that the mission she had been working on for almost a year now had been taken from her. She honestly had no idea why she suddenly had to face disciplinary actions like this. She had been a carefree person most of her life and she''d usually not pay attention to such things.

    Even this time around, she didn''t really care that she offended someone and brought these consequences to herself. But what bothered her was that it won''t be her who would be taking down that drug syndicate that was trying to create a hole in their country.

    "Just be d that I am here," she retorted. "Why ask so many questions?"

    Xiang Weimin narrowed his eyes at her, "Did something happen?"

    "No," she answered not feeling any burden while lying straight to his face. "I just got a short vacation. So, I might be going to Nanzhou city in a couple of days to see dad."

    "Really?" asked Xiang Weimin in surprise.

    "Yeah. Just don''t tell him that I''ll being."

    "Why not?"

    "Because then he''d be waiting for me! What if I suddenly changed my mind? Wouldn''t he be disappointed?"

    Xiang Weimin pressed his lips together and nodded at her. "Alright. I won''t tell him. You can give him a surprise. He''ll be happy to see you."

    "Ge..." she suddenly called out to him and when he faced her, she didn''t speak further.

    He continued to wait patiently for her to go on but she just couldn''t open her mouth in front of him. "What is it?"

    "Forget it!" she said and got in her car to leave. "If I have time, I''lle to see you. But don''t count on that."

    "I never counted on you," replied Xiang Weimin.

    "You just made me sound like the bad guy here."

    "You are the bad guy here," said Xiang Weimin.

    Xiang Wai raked her fingers through her short hair in a handsome gesture as she said, "Well, you wouldn''t find any other handsome bad guy like me." Suddenly remembering something, she got out of the car and saluted him, "I''ll take my leave now, Lieutenant Colonel Xiang!"

    "Get lost already!"

    Sheughed out at his reaction before really leaving. While he stood there watching his car driving out, Zhai Kuijun came to stand beside him.

    "Is something wrong?"

    "I don''t know, Uncle," he answered. "She isn''t willing to say it."

    "Then let her be," suggested Zhai Kuijun. "She had always been a strong-minded person. Even if something bothered her, she''d take care of it herself before telling anyone about it."

    "That''s true," agreed Xiang Weimin. "I''m just always worried about her. I feel like if she didn''t change her attitude..." he didn''t continue his sentence since he didn''t really know how to put his thoughts into words right now. This sister of his really made him feel tired worrying about her all the time.

    "Still, isn''t it still better now?" asked Zhai Kuijun. "Once upon a time, your father was worried sick because of her terrible anger management."

    "She just had too much rage filled within her," said Xiang Weimin. "Although joining the army didn''t tone down her anger, it actually helped in making her know how to make the best use of that rage."

    Since the doctor suggested Xiang Weimin try walking with the help of crutches every day, he decided to avail himself this time to take a walk in the garden with Zhai Kuijun to digest food as well. They took a short ten-minute walk before going back inside.

    They sat down in the living room as Zhai Kuijun suggested having some tea which would help them in sleeping better. Suddenly, they heard the sound of Zhai Yanjun''s voice along with some unfamiliar voicesing from the door.

    "I won''t ask you to stay for long," Zhai Yanjun was saying. "It''s just having some tea. How long do you think it''ll take?"

    "Opa said it''s not nice to go to other people''s house unannounced," was Hyson''s reply who was still reluctant toe inside. "Also, at this time when people need to rest. Your grandparents are old, it''s not good to bother them like this." Although what he said was true, he was actually using Grandfather Xiang''s words as an excuse right now. Simply because he didn''t wish to go to anyone''s house. He never liked visiting other people''s houses unless that house belonged to Raelle. This clearly didn''t!

    "My grandparents don''t go to sleep so early," stated Zhai Yanjun. "Stop making excuses already. Juste inside." He held his wrist and dragged him inside while giving the pair of husband and wife at the side a look. "And you two as well. What are you waiting for? Do I have to drag you in as well?"

    "That won''t be necessary," said Shui Xian as he hugged his wife to his side. He definitely won''t let Zhai Yanjun drag her. Not just because she didn''t like others touching her but also because he didn''t want anyone to touch her. He looked at Raelle and said, "Let''s just give him some face."

    "If you say so," replied Raelle and entered the house.

    Just when they reached the living room, Zhai Yanjun was surprised to see the two people present there. "Dad? Weimin Ge?"

    Hearing that name, Raelle''s head unconsciously turned in Xiang Weimin''s direction. And when thetter looked at her, he paused as his eyes got stuck on her face refusing to move away. Even Hyson''s eyes were on Xiang Weimin along with Shui Xian.. Xiang Weimin wasn''t even bothered by the three pair of eyes looking at him as his own attention was solely on Raelle.

 Chapter 401 - Detour

    Originally, none of these people were supposed to show up at Zhai Yanjun''s house. They had to take different routes to get to their own destinations and yet, as fate would have it, Zhai Yanjun''s car broke down when they were about to go their separate ways.

    "What''s up?" questioned Shui Xian when he noticed Zhai Yanjun''s car wasn''t starting.

    "Don''t know," answered Zhai Yanjun as he got down from the car and went to check what was wrong with his car. But he wasn''t that familiar with cars. He had spent way too long in the army where he didn''t need to even drive his car for months. So, he wasn''t sure what was the issue here. "I guess I need to call a mechanic," hemented while ruffling his hair in annoyance.

    "How will you get home?" asked Shui Xian.

    "Let''s see if I can call a cab," said Zhai Yanjun and pulled out his phone to check the cab service app. However, at this time of the night, there were no cars in the area.

    "Do you want me to check it for you?" offered Raelle all of a sudden.

    Zhai Yanjun looked over at her with raised brows, "Saozi, you can fix it?"

    "Are you doubting my Ellie?" questioned Hyson. "Don''t ever do that! She can do all sorts of things and even if she can''t she doesn''t mind learning."

    "I''ll see what''s wrong," said Raelle and stepped up to check his car.

    Shui Xian held her arm and stopped her saying, "There is no need for that."

    "Why?" asked Raelle. "Doesn''t he have to go home?"

    "I can drop him off on our way back home," was Shui Xian''s response. He just didn''t want his wife to fix Zhai Yanjun''s car. Don''t ask him why. He might not even know himself but he just didn''t feel like letting his wife work for someone else.

    Also, fixing the car will get her hands dirty with grease. Those pretty hands don''t deserve to get sullied by ck grease.

    Although Raelle didn''t know what kind of reason Shui Xian had in his mind for stopping her, she''d still listen to him. If he said no, then it''s a no.

    "Alright. That can work as well," stated Raelle and went to their car.

    Hyson tsked at Shui Xian and smiled at him knowingly, "Xian Ge, you''re really broadening my horizon here." With that, he also went to the car leaving behind Zhai Yanjun who was staring at Shui Xian with an odd expression.

    "Do you have to go that far?" he inquired.

    Shui Xian cleared his throat, "Yes. What''s wrong with going too far?"

    "No, seriously dude! She could fix it but you won''t let her do it. You''d rather take a detour to my ce than allow her to touch my car?"

    "It''s up to me," retorted Shui Xian.

    Zhai Yanjun shook his head at him and dialed the number of a mechanic. Conveying the situation properly, he left the car key with the receptionist of the restaurant they came to eat at and then left with Shui Xian.

    On their way back, Hyson was ying on his phone. Raelle was silently staring out the window and Shui Xian was quietly driving. Zhai Yanjun fidgeted in his seat and asked, "Why are you all so quiet?"

    Hyson turned his face to him, "Do you want me to sing for you?"

    "I don''t mind," replied Zhai Yanjun. "I just feel it''s too quiet in the car right now. Xian, why don''t you turn on the radio?"

    "My wife doesn''t like listening to music," was Shui Xian''s reply.

    Zhai Yanjun rolled his eyes at Shui Xian who obviously couldn''t see it. "There are news channels on the radio as well!"

    "Fai doesn''t like listening to the news," replied Shui Xian again.

    "There are chat shows as well," insisted Zhai Yanjun. "And when did you start catering to others'' likes and dislikes?"

    Shui Xian chose not to answer Zhai Yanjun this time around. Obviously, the younger him would have never catered to others'' moods. Since he loved music, he''d y it at all costs. But now, he was older and after suffering from the consequences of doing whatever he felt like, he hade to understand that it was alright to put someone else''s happiness before you.

    It was okay to be considerate with people.

    When they dropped off Zhai Yanjun at his door, he insisted on taking them inside. "Oh,e on, juste inside to say hello to my grandparents. You''re already here. They''d be mad at me if they got to know I let you leave just like that."

    "We should really go back now," replied Shui Xian. He was looking at the time and he really thought they were quitete. Even though they were not kids, it was still not good to stay out for so long.

    "You just have to see them at the door," said Zhai Yanjun.

    And this statement changed when they got to the door. Because then he wanted to take them inside at all costs. The reason was still the same that they were already at the door now, it wouldn''t make sense to leave from here without having a cup of tea. He was being too persistent. He was being the perfect example of giving someone an inch and they''d like to take a mile instead.

    But he actually just wanted them toe inside for a while. He had never brought friends home. Even Shui Xian met him outside of the house. So, he didn''t want them to leave just like that when they had alreadye here. He usually wasn''t stubborn in life but this time, he was really being not like himself.

    And it was this push and pull that Xiang Weimin and Zhai Kuijun got to hear inside. They were both equally surprised to know that Zhai Yanjun brought someone home.. But it was only when they saw with whom he came home that both of them were blown away.

 Chapter 402 - Stay

    There was neither curiosity nor surprise in Raelle''s eyes. They were as nk as ever as she looked at Xiang Weimin and mentally noted the simrities he shared with her and their grandfather. But her eyes were on him for just half a minute before they moved away as if she was looking at just any other person.

    Xiang Weimin did indeed take after his grandfather when he was younger. His features had a striking resemnce to the young Xiang Tianyu but it wasn''t so obvious now that Grandfather Xiang had aged. If it wasn''t for that resemnce, Raelle might not have even bothered looking at him for a second.

    On the other hand, Xiang Weimin couldn''t move his eyes away from Raelle even when she looked away. In all honesty, he had never seen Raelle before. Not even when she was just a baby. Firstly, she grew up thousands of miles away from them. Second, she had a very private life. A person couldn''t even find a single photo of her at any event on the inte.

    And even if he had some authority in the army, he was still not able to find much information about Raelle because of the way she was so closely protected by both Mu Chenyan and Grandfather Xiang.

    At first, the only reason he looked so closely at her was that she walked in with Zhai Yanjun and Hyson. And then the more he looked, the more he frowned at the way he felt like her eyes looked just like his own.

    "Jun," called out Zhai Kuijun. "Why didn''t you say you''d be bringing guests?" He turned to Shui Xian and smiled widely, "Oh, if it isn''t Master Xian. Seeing you has be a luxury."

    Shui Xian felt embarrassed to hear that from him, "Uncle, at least, you should not say that. If you ask to see me, I''ll be avable at all times."

    "I believe you," said Zhai Kuijun and then he looked at Raelle. "President Raelle, it''s an honor to meet you again." He took a brief pause as he added, "You might not remember that we..."

    "We met at a charity banquet," answered Raelle for him. "I definitely remember, Mr. Zhai Kuijun."

    Zhai Kuijun was a little surprised, "You have an impable memory."

    "I know," she didn''t act humble at all while replying in her own signature way.

    "Uncle, let me introduce you to you again," stated Shui Xian as he hugged Raelle from the side. "Meet my wife, Raelle Xiang."

    Hearing that name, Xiang Weimin''s eyes widened. In his heart, he actually had a bold guess but he was afraid to believe it. But now... Now, it was proven true. She was indeed Raelle Xiang, his own little sister.

    "And he is Yanjun''s father," introduced Shui Xian to Raelle who nodded her head.

    "Hi, Lieutenant!" Hyson was waving at Xiang Weimin. "Didn''t think I''d see you here."

    Xiang Weimin was pulled out of his thoughts by Hyson''s voice as he answered, "I didn''t think I''d see you here as well."

    "You actually look better than thest time I saw you,"mented Hyson.

    "I am doing better now," said Xiang Weimin.

    "Weimin Ge, weren''t youing from the hospital tomorrow?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "I decided to bring him home early," answered Zhai Kuijun for Xiang Weimin.

    "Oh," responded Zhai Yanjun and then turned to Raelle and Shui Xian. "He is Xiang Weimin. A very close senior of mine. He is also a family friend actually just like Xian." Then he looked at Xiang Weimin, "And Weimin Ge, that''s my so-called friend, Shui Xian whom you must have heard me rambling about, and with him is his wife, Raelle Xiang." As if suddenly realizing it, heughed out, "Now that I noticed it, you both have the same family name. Xiang Weimin and Raelle Xiang. How interesting!"

    Hyson looked at Zhai Yanjun and burst outughing, "Oh my! Soldier, you''re slow!"

    "Huh?" Zhai Yanjun didn''t understand his meaning.

    Hyson patted his shoulder saying, "You''re very slow."

    Raelle agreed with her best friend, "Hyson is right. You''re indeed slow."

    Zhai Yanjun scratched his head in confusion, "What are we even talking about here?"

    "Forget it," said Shui Xian. "Since we came in to say hi as you wanted us to, we should leave now."

    "No, no!" Zhai Yanjun stood up to stop him. "You didn''t even meet grandma and grandpa yet. Also, the tea. I brought you inside for tea. No leaving without that."

    "Jun is right," added Zhai Kuijun. "You just got here. Have some tea first." He looked at Shui Xian and went on, "Or is it that you don''t want to sit with me?"

    "Uncle, it''s nothing like that," answered Shui Xian. "It''s just that we''ve been out for the whole day and now, we are all tired. It''s alsote now."

    "Just one cup of tea won''t take much time," insisted Zhai Kuijun.

    Shui Xian could argue with Zhai Yanjun but he didn''t wish to do so with Zhai Kuijun. He nced at Raelle as if to ask whether they should stay or not and in response, he received that same indifferent look in her eyes. No matter how he understood her, he wasn''t able to understand what she meant by that look.

    He had already deduced that Xiang Weimin was Raelle''s elder brother and for some reason, he thought it''d be ufortable for them to stay here now. And that''s why he was looking for her opinion regarding this.

    "Xian Ge, we can stay for the tea," Hyson had to jump in to solve Shui Xian''s dilemma and it helped.

    Since Hyson said that it meant Raelle had no problem. If there was one person who could be counted as Raelle''s true voice, that''d be Hyson. He could never be wrong about Raelle''s thoughts.

    "What is this?" questioned Zhai Yanjun. "Xian, you wouldn''t stay if Saozi said otherwise?"

    "Why can''t I just listen to my wife?" retorted Shui Xian.

 Chapter 403 - Influence

    "I didn''t introduce Fai to dad," Zhai Yanjun knocked on his head as he recalled that.

    "You don''t have to," said Hyson. "We already met."

    "Huh? When?" questioned Zhai Yanjun.

    "When I went over to see Lieutenant, he was there," answered Hyson honestly. It was not like it was a secret or something.

    "Ohh..." Zhai Yanjun stared at Hyson''s face for a moment longer before looking towards his own father for a moment. He was trying to see if his dad caught on to something after seeing Hyson but then he realized that Hyson didn''t even look like his Aunt Yue. And neither his personality matched with her. For people who didn''t know that they were mother and son, it''d be hard to make a connection between them.

    "By the way, why do you keep calling Weimin Ge, Lieutenant?" questioned Zhai Yanjun in dissatisfaction. "You even call Xian Ge but you don''t give me that respect. And we are the same age! Weimin Ge is even older than us, can''t you just call him Ge?"

    "That''s absolutely up to me," was Hyson''s response. "I call Xian Ge as my Ge because I want to do so. I don''t call you one, because I don''t want to do so."

    "How can you be so willful about this?"

    "I can be as willful as I want," retorted Hyson. "Right, Ellie?"

    "Absolutely," was Raelle''s response as if she would say anything to refute his words.

    "Saozi, do you ever say no to him?" asked Zhai Yanjun in pure curiosity.

    "I do," replied Raelle.

    "But I can turn that no into a yes before she even realizes it," Hyson told him proudly as if it was his biggest achievement in life.

    "Feeling proud?"

    Hyson nodded his head, "It''s something to be proud of. How many people in the world do you think there are in this world who can go against Raelle Xiang? Let me tell you, there is only one! ME!"

    Zhai Yanjun looked at Shui Xian, "Don''t you have anything to say about this?"

    "He is telling the truth," said Shui Xian. "I don''t think I can say anything about this. Especially since it''s between best friends. I or any other person in the world can''te between them."

    "Xian Ge is keen,"mented Hyson. "That''s why I like him so much."

    "Are you indirectly saying you don''t like me?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "You currently have nothing that could make me like you," said Hyson.

    "Ouch! That''s hurtful!"

    "That is also one of my talents." Hyson gave him a sickly sweet smile as he added, "I learned it from the best of the best."

    Zhai Kuijun was baffled to see this side of his son for the first time. He had never seen him bickering with anyone so stubbornly in his entire lifetime. This came as a shock to him and for a moment, he didn''t know what to say or think. But one thing was for certain, it made him interested in knowing about Hyson.

    "So, Xian, how is your dad?" asked Zhai Kuijun as he turned his attention to Shui Xian. "And what is he doing these days? I feel like he disappeared since the time he chose to retire early."

    "B¨¤ is just at home enjoying his secluded and private space," answered Shui Xian.

    "Doesn''t he get tired of staying at home though?" questioned Zhai Kuijun. "He had never liked doing nothing at all. He always said he felt like he was losing time by doing nothing. In fact, he doesn''t evene out to meet friends or attend any banquets at all."

    "As I said, B¨¤ is really enjoying himself," said Shui Xian. "Especially since I got married."

    "Huh?" Zhai Kuijun was surprised by that statement.

    "Why wouldn''t he be happy now? He can spend hours discussing books with my wife. He can drag her to y video games with him. He also goes over to y chess with Grandfather Xiang." Shui Xian shook his head in amusement. He believed his father was really having way too much fun these days. He looked more energetic and rxed as well.

    "He really seems to be having fun," stated Zhai Kuijun. "But I did not expect that President Raelle would have yed video games in her free time."

    "You can just call me by my name," said Raelle to him. "And I don''t really y video games in my free time."

    "No, she only ys when Fai drags her to do so and now B¨¤ also joins their team," added Shui Xian for her. "In the end, it''s still as Fai earlier said, she''d do things that she doesn''t even like if he tells her to do so."

    "Wow! I never knew someone could have such an influence on you," said Zhai Kuijun to Raelle.

    "He is my best friend," was Raelle''s only answer to that. She didn''t feel like there was a need to do so. In her opinion, that sentence alone was the biggest andprehensive exnation she could offer people.

    Hyson smiled knowingly when he heard those familiar words from her all over again. It never got old actually. These words always managed to bring a smile to his face whenever or wherever he heard it. Even he didn''t know why these words had such an effect on him but they did. Those wordsing from her were like a promise to him that she was always there for him.

    On the other hand, Xiang Weimin who sat there silently was going through some intense emotions even he couldn''t understand at all. He already felt weird when Zhai Yanjun introduced him to Raelle. He found it quite ironic how he was meeting his sister for the first time at someone else''s house and that too as a stranger. That made his heart feel unsettled.

    It felt like they had nothing to do with each other. Even though they didn''t grow up together, the fact that they were siblings couldn''t be changed.. But perhaps, the fact that he couldn''t just barge into her life couldn''t be changed as well.

 Chapter 404 - Lousy Excuse

    For Zhai Kuijun, it came as a surprise that Hyson seemed to be a very important part of Raelle''s life. He had been in business for years, Raelle Xiang''s name was nothing new to him. He had always paid attention to things rted to her because of her father, Xiang Hulin. However, while doing so, he had a basic understanding of what or who Raelle Xiang was.

    And he never thought Raelle had someone in her life who could make her give in to things easily. But it seemed that Hyson was exactly that existence in her life.

    Zhai Yanjun had gone to call his grandparents while Xiang Weimin had no clue how to join the conversation at all. Zhai Kuijun picked up the conversation as he asked Raelle, "How''s your grandfather?"

    "Opa is good," replied Raelle.

    "It''s been a very long time since Ist saw him," stated Zhai Kuijun. "But I did meet Mu Chenyan recently in Nanzhou. I wasn''t expecting to see her there so it came as quite a surprise."

    Raelle didn''t even have to think about the time he was talking about. She knew very well when was thest time Mu Chenyan went to Nanzhou city out of nowhere. Wasn''t it because she wanted to check up on Lieutenant Colonel Xiang Weimin.

    "Yanyan is like wind," said Raelle. "You can never predict where she''ll drift off to in the very next moment."

    Zhai Kuijun nodded his head, "I have to agree with that." Recalling something, he said, "If only Jun told me that you guys wereing. I''d have prepared a wedding gift for you two. I''m feeling really uneasy now."

    "There is no need for that," said Shui Xian.

    "Are you both nning on holding a wedding?" asked Zhai Kuijun.

    "Yes, but it''ll be in a couple more months," said Shui Xian. "For now, we both are busy with work."

    While they were chatting, Hyson felt his phone''s vibration. He pulled it out of his pocket and looked at the caller id. Seeing that caller id, his lips stretched into a small smile. Noticing that Raelle was looking at him, he waved his phone before her eyes as he whispered, "Wanna bet? Although it''s a call from Opa''s phone, the one calling is Yanyan?"

    "I don''t take losing bets," was Raelle''s response.

    Hyson tsked at her, "You just don''t want me to win." Saying that he stood up and attended the call, "Opa, what''s up?"

    "It''s me," came Mu Chenyan''s voice from the other side just as he had predicted.

    Hyson held back his smile as he feigned surprise, "Yanyan? Why are you calling me from Opa''s phone? Is everything okay?"

    "I can''t find Elder Xiang''s medicine box, where did you ce it?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Hyson had to bite his bottom lip to stop himself fromughing out loud at that lousy excuse. "Oh, why are you asking me that?"

    "Because you''ve been the one taking care of his medications these days," reminded Mu Chenyan.

    "I know," replied Hyson. "But I always ce the medicine box where it belongs. Do you think I am that irresponsible to leave it just anywhere?" He took a pause and asked, "By the way, where is Opa?"

    "He has gone to sleep," replied Mu Chenyan without thinking.

    "You''re looking for his medicine box after he has gone to sleep?"

    Mu Chenyan bit her tongue as she realized that she slipped up.

    Hyson chuckled, "Yanyan, just tell me why you''re calling."

    "When are youing back?" she asked the question she really called for.

    "Aiyo, my prettydy, can''t you just stop waiting for me?" inquired Hyson feeling helpless. "Why do you and mum have to torture yourself like this all the time? I''lle home on my own. You both don''t have to wait for me like this."

    "Stop lecturing and just tell me when you''reing back," Mu Chenyan''s voice took a sharp turn to hide her feelings. They had just be one of those nagging and worrying olddies now. But it wasn''t their fault as well. They just had given their all to Raelle and Hyson. It was only right that their lives would still revolve around these two.

    "I''ll be back soon," replied Hyson. "But I can''t give you an exact time for now. That''s why I''m telling you to go to rest. I know you both have been working hard these days."

    "You don''t have to worry about us," responded Mu Chenyan. "It''s enough that we are here to worry about you."

    "Every feeling should be reciprocated," retorted Hyson. "If you worry about me, it''s only right that I worry about you as well."

    "Sweet mouth," tsked Mu Chenyan. "You''re not alone, right? Elle and Xian are still with you?"

    "Of course!"

    "That''s good then," said Mu Chenyan. "Then I''m hanging up. I called because even Elder Xiang was asking about you before going to sleep."

    As she hung up, Hyson couldn''t stop smiling as he stared at his phone.

    "Is everything okay?" inquired Shui Xian when he looked at Hyson.

    Hyson nodded his head, "It''s just that my family''s beautifuldies still think I''m a baby and they are worried since I haven''t arrived back home yet. You should just drop me off at the door or else, there is a high chance that Yanyan is gonna lecture you over keeping me out sote."

    Raelle nodded along with him, "Hyson is right. You should avoid Yanyan tonight."

    Shui Xian fidgeted in his seat, "I always want to avoid her. She is scary."

    "She is not," said Hyson and Raelle simultaneously.

    Shui Xian looked at them before saying, "To you both, she is definitely not scary because she loves you the most. I''m a different story."

    "She is still nicer to you than most people," Hyson told him honestly. "You really wouldn''t wanna see how scary she can really be."

    "Even I''d agree with that," said Zhai Kuijun from the side. "Mu Chenyan is really scary.. The word ''nice'' hardly fits into her dictionary of life."

 Chapter 405 - Weak

    "Uncle, do you know Mu Chenyan well?" asked Shui Xian.

    "Not that well personally," answered Zhai Kuijun. "But I''ve heard some stories that are not good for the weak-hearted. She grew up in a military family but she was more like a gangster in her glory days."

    "She was,"mented Xiang Weimin softly as he thought back to that aunt of his who loved to stir trouble everywhere she walked. Since he was eight years older than Raelle, he was quite sensible when Raelle was born. And even though he never met or saw Raelle, Mu Chenyan was a different story.

    That was his favorite aunt who loved breaking rules. She would sneak in candies for him even when he wasn''t allowed to eat any. Of course, she''d be berated by Grandmother Xiang for doing that, it never affected her.

    Even though his voice was soft, Hyson and Raelle heard what he said and then they both looked at each other. They both had the same thought in their mind. They both had never seen that version of Mu Chenyan that people talked about. Because to them, Mu Chenyan was an existence they knew they could depend on. She was patient, calm, always trying to amodate them. So, the Mu Chenyan people talked about really didn''t resonate well with both of them.

    "She is a lot more peaceful now," told Shui Xian to Zhai Kuijun.

    "Time changed her," said Zhai Kuijun.

    "Not really," came Grandma Zhai''s voice. "It''s right to say that her precious niece changed her temper." And while speaking, she was looking at Raelle clearly indicating that she was talking about her. But it was already obvious to most people. The person who brought the biggest change in Mu Chenyan''s life was Raelle and that was an undisputed fact.

    "Grandma Zhai," called out Shui Xian to greet her. "Grandpa Zhai. Did Yanjun wake you both up because of us?"

    "Don''t worry about that," Grandpa Zhai waved him off carelessly. "It''s a good thing that Ah-Yan dragged you here or else you''d nevere to see us."

    "It''s nothing like that," said Shui Xian. "I''ve been just busy with work."

    "When are you not?" asked Grandma Zhai. "But it is indeed good to see you here." She looked at Raelle and Hyson as she went on, "And you two as well. It''s the first time you''re visiting our house. I feel like such an incapable host for not even receiving our guests properly."

    "Don''t think about that," said Shui Xian. "We have been out for the whole day and had so much fun. And Yanjun also treated us to dinner, so you don''t have to worry about any of it."

    Grandma Zhai looked at her lovely grandson, "Our Ah-Yan is sensible." As they sat down, she went on, "Ah-Yan told me you guys went to the amusement park."

    Shui Xian smiled and nodded his head. He touched Hyson''s head saying, "My little brother here wanted to go so I took him there. Yanjun wanted to just tag along so we took him as well."

    Zhai Yanjun red at Shui Xian as he thought about how casually and easily Shui Xian called Hyson as his brother. When in truth, he was the one! After all, Hyson was his cousin!

    "Yue Fai," called out Grandpa Zhai.

    "Yes?"

    "Why do you look so weak, young man?"

    Hyson looked down at himself, "I look weak? But I''m sure I have put on weight by staying close to Yanyan and my mum who only knows how to feed me all the time."

    Grandpa Zhai smiled at his answer, "But you do look weak."

    "It must be because of the surgery," finally Xiang Weimin said something out loud.

    "Surgery?" Both Grandpa Zhai and Grandma Zhai were taken aback.

    "He got into an ident and that''s how he saved my life as well," Xiang Weimin exined things to them and they looked worriedly at Hyson.

    "How are you now?"

    Hyson felt likeughing for some reason as he said, "I just spent the whole day jumping around. Do you I could have done that if I was still not okay? No, do you think anyone at home would let me even step out of my room if I wasn''t fine? Don''t think about it." He pointed at Xiang Weimin as he went on, "He is the one who had serious injuries. I just had minor internal bleeding and it was treated on time. Nothing to even worry about at all."

    "You''re saying it so casually," said Grandma Zhai. "Why do I feel like it wasn''t as simple as you just said?"

    "That''s because you''re my elder. And elders always tend to worry," stated Hyson matter-of-factly.

    Soon the tea was served and everyone chatted while drinking tea. Hyson scooted over to Raelle''s side and asked, "Do I look weak?"

    "I can''t tell," answered Raelle honestly.

    "I think it''s just how elders are," said Hyson. "Whenever they look at you, they think you''re weaker than thest time they saw you. Because to them, the healthy people are a bit chubby and plump."

    "Do you wanna try being chubby?" asked Raelle.

    "How would I even look?" asked Hyson to himself and for a moment, he really imagined how he''d really look like a chubby one. Nodding his head, he stated, "Still as handsome as ever."

    "Stop being so full of yourself," said Raelle.

    "I can''t help it," he replied to her. Then his eyes wandered around a little and stopped on Xiang Weimin for a minute. Lowering his voice, he said to her, "Do you see it now?"

    "What?"

    "He really looks like you," said Hyson.

    "No," said Raelle. "He looks like Opa''s younger version. At most, we have the same eyes."

    "Still," insisted Hyson. "He does have a resemnce to you. And it''s not just about how he looks. It''s about how he feels as well."

    "You seem to really like him already," stated Raelle positively.

    Hyson rubbed his neck saying, "Do I? It has to be because of how reminds me of you."

 Chapter 406 - Relief?

    After the tea, Shui Xian insisted on leaving. It was alreadyte and it didn''t feel right to stay any longer. Both Grandpa Zhai and Grandma Zhai were too happy to see them here and obviously asked them toe often.

    Getting a chance to talk to Raelle alone, Xiang Weimin stepped over to her side and said, "It''s nice to meet you."

    "Is it?" responded Raelle nkly.

    Xiang Weimin smiled a little, "Maybe it isn''t for you, but it is nice to me. Because I have always wished to see you. Although I never thought we''d meet like this, I''m d we did."

    Raelle looked straight at his face. With her ability to read people, she could say that Xiang Weimin meant what he said. He was genuinely happy to meet her like this and it could be seen in the way his eyes sparkled a little. His expressions as he looked at her were soft. She was certain that this was their first time meeting but that look in his eyes was the same as she saw in Mu Chenyan''s eyes.

    This actually puzzled her a little. She wasn''t able toprehend what did it mean? Mu Chenyan''s feelings for her were understandable since she watched her grow up. But why were Xiang Weimin''s feelings towards her so intense when they had never even met or seen each other before?

    "You know who I am, right?" he asked her when she stayed silent for a long while.

    "I do," she answered.

    Xiang Weimin heaved a sigh of relief, "That''s a relief."

    Raelle stared at him when he said that not understanding what he meant by that as well. Feelings had always beenplicated for her and it was no different now when she was faced with such strong emotions emitting from Xiang Weimin.

    Perhaps, to her knowing that he was her elder brother was nothing special. But to him, it was a whole different story. Since he had always yearned to meet her. Their age gap was big which meant he looked at her like she was still his baby sister. Now that was an entirely different story that Raelle didn''t feel such a thing. She never considered herself to be a baby even when she was a kid.

    "Ellie, let''s go!"

    Raelle looked over at Hyson and nodded her head. Meanwhile, Xiang Weimin looked at Hyson with aplicated look in his eyes. And in return, Hyson offered him a big smile, "See youter, Lieutenant!"

    When they left, Zhai Yanjun helped Xiang Weimin to his room. And looking at his face intensely, he stated, "Weimin Ge, did you notice?"

    "What?"

    "You and Raelle not only share the same family name but you both even have some resemnce," said Zhai Yanjun.

    Xiang Weimin stared at him, "It''s just as they said. You''re really slow, Yanjun."

    "What did I do now?"

    "Am I not supposed to have any resemnce with my own sister?" retorted Xiang Weimin.

    "I''m not talking about Wai. She looks like your mother," said Zhai Yanjun.

    "I am not talking about her as well," said Xiang Weimin. "I am talking about Raelle. Are you forgetting that my grandfather''s name is Xiang Tianyu?"

    Zhai Yanjun almost fell down when he heard that. He stared at him with wide eyes. "No way!" He gaped at him in disbelief as he tried to think it all over again. He covered his mouth, not able toe back to himself for a minute. "She... She is really your sister? But I thought you only had one sister."

    Xiang Weimin frowned at him, "You''ve dated Wai for so long, did she never mention that we have another sister?"

    Zhai Yanjun shook his head, "You know how your sister is. She doesn''t like talking about families. She was never interested in knowing about my family and she never mentioned anything about her own."

    Xiang Weimin was actually not that surprised to get that answer from Zhai Yanjun. He knew Wai enough to know what kind of a person she was. She''d run from anything rted to families. Since they were young, she had avoided family dinners. She just didn''t like such things. And he couldn''t really me her for that either.

    "But Ge, is Raelle really your sister?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "She is," answered Xiang Weimin. "She is our younger sister."

    "Wow!" Zhai Yanjun didn''t know what else to say in response here or how to react exactly. This wasn''t surprising but rather shocking to him. He never even tried to connect that Raelle could be rted to Xiang Weimin. No wonder, she said he was slow. He was really slow since he didn''t even catch on to this. He must have looked like an idiot to all of them.

    "Stop thinking about it now," said Xiang Weimin. "And go back to your room already."

    "Ah!" Zhai Yanjun suddenly screamed, startling Xiang Weimin as well.

    "What''s wrong?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    Zhai Yanjun pulled his hair saying, "I almost went on a blind date with my ex-girlfriend''s sister! What the hell?!"

    Xiang Weimin''s eyes widened, "What did you just say?"

    Zhai Yanjun took a deep breath and exined the ins and outs of the situation to Xiang Weimin who looked mad when he finished. He pulled his ear saying, "How dare you to ditch my sister like that?"

    Zhai Yanjun tried to save his ear saying, "It''d be worse if I had gone on that blind date."

    "I don''t care," retorted Xiang Weimin. "You actually insulted my sister by not showing up at all."

    "Weimin Ge, why are you so biased?" questioned Zhai Yanjun. "I thought you had always been an objective person even when you heard about the issues between me and Wai, you''d never take sides. What''s wrong with you this time?"

    Xiang Weimin let him go but didn''t reply. How was he supposed to tell him that towards Wai, he didn''t feel the need to protect her? She was someone who never needed him. But towards Raelle, he felt guilty for not being there for all her life. It was purely instinctual that he got mad at Zhai Yanjun over this.. He couldn''t possibly be rational.

 Chapter 407 - The Key

    "I wonder why Wai didn''t mention that Raelle is her sister," Zhai Yanjun was muttering to himself as he thought about it. "But no wonder she seemed suddenly so interested in Raelle out of nowhere."

    Xiang Weimin caught his words and frowned, "Wai met Raelle?" Zhai Yanjun looked at him and nodded his head in response. "When?"

    "Earlier this week," answered Zhai Yanjun. As he briefed him about the way Xiang Wai took Raelle for investigation, Xiang Weimin was left speechless for a moment. "You know how she is. She''d never let even water slip out of her fingers. We always try not to disrupt the civilians'' peace but Wai isn''t like that. If it meant that she can do her job efficiently, she''ll go as far as offending anyone."

    Xiang Weimin couldn''t say anything to that. He was familiar with Xiang Wai''s nature. And it truly wasn''t surprising to him that Xiang Wai did something like that. He just didn''t think his sisters came in front of each other in such a situation.

    "Nothing happened to Raelle?" he questioned Zhai Yanjun.

    "You should be worried about Wai instead," stated Zhai Yanjun. "Nothing can possibly happen to Raelle Xiang. You might be looking at her as your little sister but she isn''t little."

    "What happened to Wai?" asked Xiang Weimin. He hardly had times when he needed to be concerned about Xiang Wai. Although the things she did were always worrying, she always knew how to clean up her own mess. "She seemed fine when we met. In fact, she just left minutes before you came back and she looked absolutely fine. She didn''t even mention that she met Raelle."

    "She is suspended from her duty for a week," told Zhai Yanjun. "She didn''t mention it to you?"

    Xiang Weimin was taken aback when he heard that, "What? Why? When did it happen?" And then he recalled how she seemed to have too much time on her hand. She didn''t even seem bothered about the mission she was leading which was so unlike her. But now it seemed to click with him.

    "Isn''t it because she offended someone she shouldn''t have."

    "You mean... Raelle?" Xiang Weimin hesitated a little before questioning. "Is she the one behind it?"

    "She didn''t do anything," answered Zhai Yanjun. "But she is the reason." He sighed out as he told Xiang Weimin, "When the disciplinarymittee punished Wai, I actually thought Raelle was behind it. However, after spending the whole day with her, I seemed to realize that she isn''t that kind of a person. She doesn''t even feel offended if you curse her outright at her face. She doesn''t me people or circumstances for difficulties she has to face. I don''t think she even knows how toin."

    "Why do you say it like that?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "Weimin Ge, don''t tell me, you didn''t notice earlier that she is different than most people?" Xiang Weimin stayed quiet in reply, silently agreeing with his words. "She is different and I learned it from the moment I first met her. However, the more I see her, the deeper my understanding of her gets. But I still am not able to understand her." Heughed lightly at himself as he said, "I heard she has no feelings. And she definitely has facial paralysis. That girl doesn''t even know how to put on a smile."

    "I thought she was just putting on a straight face because of my presence," said Xiang Weimin out loud. He really thought that way. He didn''t even for a second think that she might just be like that. After all, no one would go there at the very first meeting. Besides, he knew their first meeting was awkward and it must have bothered her. And that''s why he was trying to be understanding towards the way she seemed so alienated.

    Zhai Yanjunughed out loud when he heard that, "Sorry to say this but you aren''t that important to her. She''d never let people define her mood. In a way, she and Fai are very alike. They both know how to stay unbothered by the rest of the world. Maybe that''s why they are best friends." He took a brief pause before he continued, "From the first time I have met her till today, I have never seen another expression on her face. I did see her wearing a polite smile on her face but it looked so damn fake. She wasn''t silent or expressionless because of you at all. Feeling awkward? She might not even know what kind of a feeling that is."

    "The more you''re speaking, the more it sounds wrong," said Xiang Weimin with a frown.

    "I''m just telling you the truth though," stated Zhai Yanjun as he turned to leave. "Raelle is aplicated person. If you want to really be a part of her life, it might not be that easy. However, you already have the key to the door."

    "Huh?"

    Zhai Yanjun smiled at him, "I''m talking about Fai. He certainly can be the key to opening the door that leads to her. And it might be easier for you to make use of this key since Fai seems to like you."

    "I don''t want to use him," said Xiang Weimin. "Fai is one of the sweetest people I''ve ever met. I don''t wanna take advantage of him."

    "Ge, do you really think that Fai didn''t know about your rtionship with Raelle?" Zhai Yanjun shook his head as he went on, "I don''t believe that. I might be slow to catch up but he isn''t. He might have even known about your rtionship with Raelle since the very first time you guys met. Because there is nothing about Raelle Xiang that Yue Fai is unfamiliar with."

    Actually, Xiang Weimin had this thought since the time he saw Hyson with Raelle tonight. However, when Zhai Yanjun said his thoughts out loud, he seemed to recall the time when Hyson had first heard his name, his expressions had a subtle change. Only now he know why that was it.

    "He really knew...." he said softly.

 Chapter 408 - Hug

    On their ride back home, Shui Xian kept sneaking nces at Raelle and then at Hyson who sat listlessly in the backseat. He was trying to read Raelle''s thoughts but that was impossible since there was no change about her. However, Hyson was a different story.

    Hyson would usually spend his time ying on his phone but now, he was listlessly gazing out the window at the dark night. That serious expression on his face actually worried Shui Xian a little.

    For someone who always wore the brightest smile on his face, it was strange to see such a solemn expression. Hyson looked like the weight of the whole world was weighing down on him and it was about to crush him. This really bothered Shui Xian.

    "Fai, you okay?" asked Shui Xian.

    "I''m good," replied Hyson absentmindedly.

    "You don''t look good to me though," Shui Xian pointed it out.

    Hyson gave him a tired smile he said, "I''m just tired. Xian Ge, don''t worry about me."

    Raelle''s fingers tapping on her knee paused when she heard Hyson''s words. She didn''t even have to look at his face to know what was the situation. But she didn''t voice out her thoughts either. She knew Hyson wouldn''t want to talk right now.

    When they arrived home, Shui Xian was about to drive into the Xiang Manor''s driveway when Hyson stopped him, "Just drop me off here." He alighted from the car and waved at them as he forced another smile on his face. "Bye, my beautiful Jiejie!"

    Raelle unbuckled her seat belt and got down. Hyson raised his brows at her while she stepped over and opened her arms to hug him. Hyson felt his heart shaking when she did it. It wasn''t the first time they hugged. It was also not the first time that Raelle had offered to hug him on her own initiative. But it always managed to provide a sense of security to him that even he didn''t know he was looking for.

    "How do you know what I needed?" he asked.

    "You only call me Jie when you want a hug," replied Raelle.

    "Huh? We had a secret code?" He feigned surprise. "I didn''t even know." Saying that he wrapped his arms around her tightly and buried his face on her shoulder as he spoke, "When you can hear what I want before I even say it, I realize that I hadn''t wasted my years on trying to read you like a book." They put the same amount of effort into this rtionship as the other person. If Hyson could always know what she meant, she could do it too. And perhaps, he was the only one whose every single emotion was familiar to her.

    "I don''t have to read you like a book," retorted Raelle. "You aren''t even as interesting as a book."

    "Tsk," Hyson responded. "You''re so mean."

    "Did you just realize that?"

    Hyson inhaled deeply as he replied, "No, I always knew you''re mean. But what to do, I still only want you as my best friend." He pulled away from her and held her hands in his own as he looked into her eyes, "Do you know that I love you very much?"

    "I know," she replied.

    "Then do you know how thankful I am to have you in my life?"

    "You''ve said that way too many times so even if I didn''t know, I might be tired of hearing that."

    "But I won''t ever be tired of telling you that," he said. "Thank you for being here! And thanks for the hug, I really needed it. But..."

    "I know you don''t want to talk right now," Raelle said what he wanted to say and it didn''t evene as a surprise to him that she read his thoughts all over again. "I didn''te down to talk to you. It''ste. Go and sleep it off for now. We''ll talk in the morning."

    Hyson nodded his head and smiled genuinely at her, "Then I''m going inside now."

    Raelle nodded and waved him goodbye saying, "Stop thinking about it."

    Hyson scratched the back of his head as he chuckled, "I won''t." He ran inside the house as he continued to smile to himself. As always, she really won''t ask him what bothered him. She just knew it! It was so frustrating sometimes that she could just tell. But it was also one of the things he felt most blessed about. How many people had such a friendship in this world?

    He didn''t think there was another pair like them. And he wasn''t even being narcissistic about it.

    As he stepped inside the house, he saw Mu Chenyan stepping out of the kitchen with a ss of water as she said, "Oh, you''re back. I just came to get some water."

    Hysonughed out at her stupid excuse. "Mum, you cane out from behind that nt."

    Yue Yue stepped out from behind the potted nt and avoided looking at Hyson who was having way too much looking at these twodies. He really didn''t know why they were like this. He told them to go to sleep but they were still waiting here for him.

    But at this moment, he couldn''t bring himself to say anything to them. He just stepped over and hugged them both saying, "You both are really something. I can''t with you two." He kissed them on their cheeks as he said, "Why are you both so pretty? And why are you both so bad at lying?"

    Mu Chenyan knocked on his head, "We just couldn''t sleep."

    Yue Yue nodded along with her, ''Who waited for you? Do you think you''re that important?''

    "As I just said, you both are bad at lying," retorted Hyson. "Now, please go back to your rooms and sleep. Stop wasting your resting time by waiting for me."

    Both of them turned to leave but at the staircase, they both looked at him as Mu Chenyan asked, "Did you eat?"

    Hyson chuckled, "Of course, I did."

    "Oh-Okay."

    Hyson looked at their receding back with amusement dancing in his eyes.

 Chapter 409 - Fun

    Although Shui Xian had already figured that something was bothering Hyson, he didn''t ask Raelle regarding this though. He wasn''t a nosy person, to begin with. So, even if he was curious, he could hold back when it was not his right to question.

    He knew Hyson would actually tell him if he really asked but he didn''t want to force him. But he was still concerned about Hyson.

    "Wife," he called out to Raelle when they went back to their bedroom.

    "Hm?"

    "Fai is bothered by something?"

    Raelle nodded her head.

    "Will he be okay?"

    "He''ll be fine," answered Raelle. "You don''t have to overthink about that. He is stronger than he seems."

    "No, I know he is a strong person," said Shui Xian. "It''s just that I have never seen him looking so down. He loves to have fun and bring happiness around him. Seeing him a little sad really bothered me."

    Raelle turned her eyes to look at Shui Xian and found that he looked genuinely worried about Hyson right now. She didn''t know why but this small realization made her feel good. She didn''t know how else to describe this feeling in her chest but it definitely felt good.

    "He also has his days," said Raelle. "He isn''t always happy. He is the person who loves to cry as well. And he isn''t even ashamed to cry as a man. If he feels like doing it, he''ll cry his heart out." She took a pause and added, "But as I said, he''ll be fine. Don''t worry about him."

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "Let me know if there is something I can do to help."

    "What makes you think that it''s such a big matter that''d require your assistance?"

    Shui Xian shrugged his shoulders, "Earlier Grandma Zhai mentioned how Fai looked weak. I noticed it on our way back and he does look a little weak. When I met him on Monday, he looked absolutely fine to me. I even thought he put on some weight. But now... Just in a few days he dramatically lost weight."

    "He loves to do things dramatically," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian smiled at her, "I am serious."

    "So am I," she replied.

    Shui Xian shook his head at her, "Darling, why do I feel like you''re avoiding this discussion?"

    "I don''t avoid things," she told him certainly.

    "Ah! How can I forget that?" He looked straight at her face, "You didn''t even avoid your brother."

    "Was I supposed to?" she asked him. "I didn''t do anything wrong to him or anyone. I have no reason to avoid anyone. Even if I do something wrong, I won''t avoid it. Opa only taught me how to face things, not how to avoid them."

    "He seemed really interested in you," Shui Xian pointed out. "But then again, that''s my wife''s charm. Everyone is always interested in knowing her."

    "Is this your way of bragging about your wife?"

    "Can''t I?" retorted Shui Xian. "In fact, I believe I can rightfully brag about my wife. And I won''t even get tired of doing it either." He smiled at her and added, "But I''m wondering, are you interested in him?"

    "No," answered Raelle. "He did say something that made me interested though." Shui Xian frowned as she told him, "He said it was nice to meet me. He also said he had always wanted to meet me. While saying that, I could tell he was telling the truth but I couldn''t tell what kind of feelings he had. I couldn''t read his expressions. No, it''d be better to say that I could read his expressions but I couldn''t understand the feelings behind them.

    There was happiness in his eyes. But there was also some apprehension along with relief. He looked like he had a lot to say but he didn''t know how to say it at all."

    Shui Xian pressed his lips together. He wasn''t even surprised now that her thoughts were spot on. She did manage to read Xiang Weimin''s expressions but she couldn''t resonate with those feelings he was going through. Perhaps, he had really been looking forward to seeing his little sister but Raelle had no such intentions.

    In a way, it sounded kind of cruel but he knew that''s how his wife was.

    And she wasn''t cruel. She was just too real.

    Shui Xian patted her head lovingly, "You don''t have to understand him. It''s okay not to. You can take your time to understand it. There is no rush at all."

    Raelle leaned into his touch as she reminded him, "We still have to go shopping tomorrow."

    Shui Xian chuckled at that, "Where did thate from?"

    "I am just giving you a reminder in case you forgot about it," said Raelle.

    "But I really don''t think I need to buy anything," said Shui Xian.

    "Do you want to argue with me?"

    "Never!"

    "Then it''s settled," stated Raelle. "We are going shopping."

    Shui Xian suddenly recalled thest time they went shopping together. She looked happy since she was using the card he gave her. It brought a smile to his face but his smile suddenly stiffened as he remembered the time she had him perform a fashion show before her. There was no doubt he''d have to change over a hundred outfits tomorrow. He already felt tired just thinking about it.

    He hugged her waist from behind as he questioned, "Baby, did you have fun today?"

    "Fun," she replied with that one word.

    "That''s good," he said. "I also had a lot of fun in a long time."

    "How could it be fun for you?" questioned Raelle. "Haven''t you been to an amusement park a number of times?"

    "So?" he retorted. "It was my first time going with my wife and also with Fai. And I must say, it was the most enjoyable to me."

    "You''re just saying it."

    Shui Xian gasped, "Wifey, you don''t believe your Hubby anymore?"

    "I believe you," she said and kissed his lips before pushing him away.

    Shui Xian fell back on the bedughing, "I always feel my heart fluttering uncontrobly when you say that you believe me."

 Chapter 410 - Strange

    Early in the morning, Lin Zhen was feeling stuffy so he brought his dog, Coco out for a walk. It was his favorite thing to do. In the past week, he had been sick and had to part with Coco for a few days but yesterday, as soon as he felt that his condition was better, he brought Coco back home.

    Coco was not just a pet to him. Coco was like his emotional support. His mother had gifted him, Coco, when she was just a little puppy and Lin Zhen had been raising her diligently for years. Coco was his closest family at this point.

    "You look really excited," hemented when he noticed how Coco kept barking happily and running here and there trying to pull the leash out of his hand. He crouched down before her and took off the leash as he rubbed her head, "Okay, you can have fun now."

    He hadn''t even stood up yet when Coco ran past him and he heard her barking at something. Lin Zhen stood up and turned to look. He was stunned to see the scene before his eyes.

    Coco had actually rushed to Shui Xian''s side and rubbed his leg lovingly trying to seek attention. And acting like a fool, Shui Xian yed along with her.

    "Someone is really happy to see me," remarked Shui Xian while he scratched Coco''s ear while Coco tried to lick his face all over making it wet.

    Lin Zhen felt like his heart was broken suddenly. When did his dog get close to someone else? He knew that Coco was an excited and happy dog but she was very picky with people. The only person she allowed to y with her was Lin Zhen with whom she was attached. So, it came as a surprise to Lin Zhen that Coco was suddenly so close to someone else.

    And why was that someone actually hispany''s new boss? Would someone exin that to him?

    His eyes moved to the person standing beside Shui Xian and when he saw Raelle, his brows raised up slightly. It suddenly clicked.

    Just the other day Raelle hade to ''borrow'' his dog to make her husband happy. And ording to her, her husband seemed to like Coco a lot. When he first met that, he was so dazed by her mere presence that he didn''t notice anything else.

    His new boss was actually married to Raelle Xiang. This realization hit him harder than he had expected.

    "Hi!" Lin Zhen dumbly greeted her with a wave of his hand when his eyes met with Raelle''s. "I mean... Good morning!"

    "Morning!" replied Raelle with a nod of her head. She wasn''t that impolite to ignore his greeting and pretend like they didn''t know each other. "How are you feeling now?"

    "Huh?" Lin Zhen was dumbfounded by that question.

    "Were you sick the other day?" questioned Raelle.

    Lin Zhen''s lips parted as he realized what she meant but he still had no words to answer. He was not expecting that question from her. And he seriously didn''t think she''d be interested in his health. But it seemed she was still very polite since she actually remembered to ask him about his health.

    "I''m doing better now," replied Lin Zhen. "That''s why I brought Coco back home."

    Raelle nodded her head in response. She looked at Shui Xian who was still busy with his favorite dog and said, "You can y with Coco. I''m gonna make another round."

    "Okay!" answered Shui Xian distractedly.

    "Oh, and he is Coco''s owner," Raelle introduced Shui Xian to Lin Zhen before leaving. "Don''t ignore him so tantly." With that, she started running on the track again.

    Shui Xian looked at Lin Zhen and frowned, "Lin Zhen? Coco is your dog?"

    Lin Zhen moved his eyes away from Raelle''s receding back and nodded his head, "Yes, Mr. Shui."

    "You can just call me Shui Xian," said Shui Xian. "We are the same age anyway. Isn''t it weird to act so formally outside of the office?" He rubbed Coco''s head saying, "Besides, I like your dog. So, I can definitely let you call me by my name."

    "I''ll try," answered Lin Zhen.

    "I didn''t expect to see you here," stated Shui Xian. "And from the look of it, you didn''t expect to see me here as well."

    Lin Zhen shook his head saying, "Actually, I already knew that you live in the same residential area. It''s just that I was taken aback by seeing you with President Raelle." He took a pause and added sheepishly, "I didn''t expect her to be your wife."

    Shui Xian chuckled, "Is it that strange that she is my wife?"

    Lin Zhen thought about it for a moment before he shook his head again, "It''s not that it''s strange. It''s just that it''s hard to imagine that you both are a couple. But seeing you both together, it''s not that hard to believe either. Thinking about it, you both are a perfect match."

    "I also think that we are a perfect match," stated Shui Xian smugly.

    "The other day she came to ask for Coco," told Lin Zhen to Shui Xian. "And that''s when she said that her husband likes Coco a lot and she wants to make him happy. I did not think at that time that she''d be talking about you."

    Shui Xian smiled to himself as he thought about what he said. His wife went out of her way and did something so not like her just to make him happy. How could he not be smiling right now?

    "And you let her take Coco that easily?"

    Lin Zhen shook his head, "No, it''s that she suddenly called Yue Fai and I couldn''t refuse after that. I did not expect that she''d make me talk to Yue Fai."

    "Fai is her best friend," said Shui Xian. "There isn''t anything about him that she doesn''t know. So, even if you didn''t know about her, she definitely knew about you. That''s why she used Fai to make you give in. She really knows how to y her cards."

    "She definitely looks like someone who knows what she is doing,"mented Lin Zhen.

 Chapter 411 - Lecture

    Even though it was a Sunday morning, Cloe couldn''t seem toze around like she''d love to do so. She had already slept through the whole day of Saturday since she had nothing to do. And when the night came, she felt so guilty for wasting her whole day by just sleeping.

    She couldn''t even tell how she could sleep for that long?

    Was it because her boss had stopped making her ve around on weekends? But at least when she was working on weekends, she had something to do. Now, she was so bored that her hair was turning grey.

    She knew she''d be spending her Sunday in the same way as well. So,st night before going to sleep she called Cui Xukun and asked him out on a date. Yes, she did it on her own. She didn''t wait for him to call her this time. She took the initiative to reach out to him instead.

    There were several reasons for that. One was that once she knew which direction she wanted to go to, she''d head-on without wasting her time. Two, she had a good impression of Cui Xukun as well. He was respectful, polite, a gentleman, and a sweet man. Although he wasn''t that good with words, he was cute. To her, at least he seemed cute.

    What she didn''t know was that it was only at her sight that Cui Xukun would forget how to even speak. His brain would get into a frenzy at the sight of her. Even if he prepared a million things to talk to her about, he''d forget it. He was that typical guy who couldn''t act like himself in front of his crush. Especially, since he was now actually able to date his crush!

    Anyway, the meeting time had been decided on 9 o''clock in the morning. But Cloe was up at 6 o''clock. She wasn''t as keen on exercising as Raelle was. Especially on a weekend. Usually, she wouldn''t even look out of her nket until noon on a Sunday but today, she couldn''t sleep any longer. After sleeping for 24 hours straight, it''d be weirder if she could still sleep.

    She stepped out on her balcony to breathe in some fresh air. The morning air was certainly refreshing, calming, and so enjoyable. She stretched her body in an udylike manner and yawned while turning. But her yawn was stuck halfway when she caught the sight of the person standing on the balcony right beside hers.

    Her eyes widened and covered her face with her hands as she turned around to hide. What the hell! What was he doing there? She didn''t even wash her face yet! She had a bedhead and she looked like a bloody hobo! Did he have to see her like that?

    Cui Xukun pursed his lips to stop himself fromughing out loud at her reaction. In his defense, he didn''t know she lived on the same floor as his sister. His sister had an apartment in this building and she always came to live here when she was either having an argument with her husband or when she needed some personal time.

    He came early in the morning to his sister''s ce and decided to wait until 9 o''clock. Who knew he''d end up seeing Cloe there? He knew she lived in the same building but he didn''t know exactly where or on which floor. Well, now he knew.

    Cloe hid behind the curtains and breathed out.

    "What''s he doing here?" she questioned to herself. Since she couldn''t possibly know the answer like this, she decided to just get ready for the date. She''d eventually know what was he doing here.

    On the other side...

    "Kun!"

    "Yes?" Cui Xukun looked at his sister with a pleasant smile on his face.

    "Don''t smile like that so early in the morning," his sister, Cui Xuqing said crankily. "It''s too dazzling and making me want to punch your face."

    Cui Xukun shook his head at her as he questioned, "Is it that time of the month again?"

    Cui Xuqing threw her slipper at him which he dodged easily as he nodded his head in confirmation, "It''s definitely that time of the month."

    Cui Xuqing snorted, "You''re so annoying."

    "I''m the only brother, you''ve got," reminded Cui Xukun. "So, even if I am annoying. I''m all you have got."

    "How I wish there was a policy of exchanging your brother," said Cui Xuqing. "Don''t smile like a fool there ande inside. Make me some coffee."

    "It''s not good to drink coffee in this condition," said Cui Xukun.

    "Then make me some breakfast!" shouted Cui Xuqing. "You came here early in the morning to lurk around me. Don''t take up space for free. Pay for it withbor!"

    Cui Xukun tsked at her as he walked inside the kitchen saying, "You don''t even feel ufortable using your brother as a freebor, eh?"

    "Why should I?" retorted Cui Xuqing. "Heaven sent me as the elder sister. It''s my born right to order you around and it''s your responsibility to listen to me."

    Cui Xukun, "Evil!" Although he muttered that, he still got busy in the kitchen to make her breakfast. It wasn''t the first time that he was working for his sister. For him, his sister was his whole family. She yed the role of a mother and a father whenever he needed her to. So, he had no scruples in showing her filial piety. Even if she said mean things, he knew she loved him the most. Sometimes, she even loved him more than her own husband and kids. "I''m making some soup to nourish your body. Don''tinter on and drink it obediently."

    "Can''t you make something nice?"

    "Soup is also good," retorted Cui Xukun resolutely. "And stop spending so much time alone. You''re married." He took a pause and added, "You even sent the kids to live with their father."

    "Will you stop lecturing me already?" she rubbed her temples as she closed her eyes and went on, "Don''t forget I''m the elder sister here!"

 Chapter 412 - Breakfast

    While making the soup, Cui Xukun suddenly thought about Cloe and contemted whether to make a portion of breakfast for her as well or not? If he hadn''t seen her, it''d be different. But now he had seen her already and she was right next door. He knew she didn''t have breakfast yet and since he had so much time on hand, he could definitely make something for her.

    Now, the question was what to make?

    If he went with what his heart was telling him, he''d seem too extravagant. He needed to make something simple but still thoughtful to show his heart.

    "Little brother," Cui Xuqing''s voice pulled him out of his thoughts. "You''re going on a date today?"

    "I am," answered Cui Xukun honestly but didn''t stop working.

    "When are you introducing her to me?" questioned Cui Xuqing.

    "Definitely not now," retorted Cui Xukun.

    "What do you mean by that? Am I a devil? Do you think I''ll eat her or something?" Cui Xuqing was displeased with how her brother answered. She wasn''t that bad, okay! She was a good sister! This thankless little brother didn''t even know what kind of a blessing it was to have a sister like her who wholeheartedly loved him!

    "No, but even I feel like avoiding you when you''re on periods," said Cui Xukun bluntly without sugarcoating anything. "You look like a hungry wolf ready to eat. I don''t dare introduce her to you during this time." He took a pause and added, "Besides, we haven''t been going out for that long yet. It''s just casual dating for now and I don''t want to scare her away by introducing my family to her. It''s too soon for that."

    Cui Xuqing sighed out, "Soren praises her highly. So, I''m just curious about her a little."

    "She had been friends with brother-inw for years," said Cui Xukun. "Of course, he has a high opinion of her." He ced the bowl of soup before her and as she was about to pick up the spoon to drink it, he smacked the back of her hand. "What are you? A kid? You didn''t even brush your teeth. Neither did you wash your face. How can you even eat like this? Do your big star clients know what kind of a dirty person you are?"

    "Just because those stars look dazzling on screen doesn''t mean they are any good thing," shot back Cui Xuqing. "You have no idea what kind of dark lives they have. I''m still far better than them." She grumbled unhappily but still went to brush her teeth.

    And while she was gone, he picked up the breakfast he packed and ran outside. Ringing the bell, he left the breakfast at the door before rushing back into his sister''s apartment hurriedly.

    It''s not like he didn''t want to face Cloe and offer her breakfast in person but he couldn''t do that. If his sister got to know that Cloe lived right next door, he didn''t even know what would happen.

    And he didn''t mean that he didn''t trust his sister. Or that she was the kind of sister who would nitpick about his life partner. His life partner was purely his own choice. But he was scared of his sister''s enthusiastic personality. He was scared she might scare Cloe away. So, it was better to take it slow for now.

    Cloe opened the door but found no one outside but she did find the food box. She frowned and picked it up. She looked at that sticky note and read, ''Have something to eat first. I''ll see you downstairs at 9.''

    As she read it, she pressed her lips together and closed the door. As she walked in, a smile bloomed on her face. She was just thinking about what to do about her breakfast and it was delivered to her door. This feeling was... too sweet!

    It was like you''re ready to sleep and someone delivered the pillow to you.

    She took out the food content and stared at the breakfast he left for her. Sandwiches, a fried egg that looked beautiful, sausages, and bacon. It wasn''t something extra special but it was still something thoughtfully made.

    She held the sticky note in her hand and muttered, "He really carries these around everywhere. Idiot!" But she didn''t even realize that even though she called him an idiot, that idiot had been bringing a smile to her facetely. He was slowly creeping into her life and it was slowly and subtly that even she didn''t realize it.

    "Was someone at the door?" questioned Cui Xuqing when she came back to drink her soup after brushing her teeth and washing her face, looking presentable.

    "No," replied Cui Xukun without any change in his expressions.

    "I thought I heard the sound of the door," she shrugged her shoulders carelessly and dug into the bowl of soup.

    Cui Xukun stared at his sister and asked, "Jie, do you always look this unpresentable in front of brother-inw as well?"

    "Why? Do I have to change for him?"

    "How did he even fall for you?" questioned Cui Xukun. "I really can''t understand how can he love you so much."

    "Go ask him," retorted Cui Xuqing.

    "Jie, don''t you feel embarrassed?"

    "Why should I?" she shot back. "It''s who I am. No, I should say everyone is like that. You can''t possibly wake up looking like a bloody princess ready for a ball! And when you are ready to spend a whole lifetime with a person, who would nitpick about how you woke up?"

    "Is that so?" Cui Xukun muttered to himself.

    "Little brother, we are humans, not gods! We can''t possibly be perfect all the time."

    "That''s true," agreed Cui Xukun. "It seems you do have your moments of intelligence."

    Cui Xuqing red at him while he happily chuckled to himself at her reaction.

    "Jie, take care of yourself more," instructed Cui Xukun.

    "What''s with you suddenly?"

    "What? I''m just telling you to take care of yourself. Is it wrong?"

    "No, it just came out of nowhere so I was taken aback."

    Cui Xukun huffed, "Being concerned about is also tiring."

    Cui Xuqing rubbed his head, "Then stop worrying about me.. It''s not your job."

 Chapter 413 - Donor

    Raelle didn''t even run ap when she found Hyson standing right there, looking at the sunrise with keen interest. He seemed to be lost in his own thoughts. As she got closer to him, he seemed to be humming a tune under his breath.

    She came to stand beside him and he turned his head to look at her before shing a brilliant smile.

    "Couldn''t sleep?" asked Raelle.

    Hyson pulled out his earphones and shrugged his shoulders nonchntly as he told her, "Not really. You know therees a rare day in the month when I feel like watching the sunrise? Today happens to be that rare day." He picked up a water bottle from the bench beside him and offered it to her. "Have a drink."

    Raelle didn''t say anything regarding his ''rare day to watch sunrise'' talk as she was well aware of it already. He indeed had such rare days. Obviously, he wasn''t that much of a morning person but he couldn''t sleep for that long either. He just loved to bury himself under his cozy nkets and pretend to be dead.

    But every month, he''d choose a random day to walk out of his room to see the sunrise.

    He looked at the beads of sweat on her forehead and sighed out, "I don''t even know why you love running so much." He took a handkerchief and wiped her sweat as he went on, "It''s not like you''re going to the Olympics or something."

    "Running in the morning is good for health," replied Raelle.

    Hyson snorted, "Yeah, right!"

    And then they both went silent. He moved over and sat on the bench by his side while staring into the horizon silently. Raelle followed him and sat down beside him. Taking a deep breath, Hyson dropped his head on her shoulders and continued to look at the sky changing colors with the arrival of the sunlight.

    "Tone down your overthinking," Raelle suddenly spoke out.

    "Huh?"

    "Almost everyone can tell by now that something is bothering you," Raelle pointed out.

    "Is it that obvious?" he questioned.

    "You''ve lost weight within days," said Raelle. "That''s not normal."

    Hyson looked down at himself and frowned, "Did I? I don''t see the difference though."

    Raelle pinched his cheeks making his lips pucker up like duck as she stated, "This face of yours is slimmer than before. As if someone sucked the life out of it."

    Hyson pped her hands away and rubbed his cheeks before muttered, "Is it that bad? Is it ruining my beauty? Oh, no! I have to do something about it."

    "Is that really something you should be concerned about right now?" retorted Raelle. "Don''t you already have enough on your te to worry about?"

    Hyson''s shoulders slumped down, "Then what am I supposed to do exactly? It''s not that easy to stop worrying."

    "Is there really a need to be worried about?" asked Raelle. "His presence won''t change anything in your life."

    "It definitely will," Hyson shot back. "How could it not? At the end of the day, he is still my fath..." he pursed his lips without finishing his sentence. He just couldn''t bring himself to say ''father'' out loud. That word had never been a part of his life.

    "Let me rephrase that for you," said Raelle. "He is at most the sperm donor. You have no reason to ept him as a father as long as you don''t want to. It won''t change anything at all."

    Hyson stared at Raelle for a minute in silence not knowing what to say in response. Technically, she was right.

    The thing that had been on his mind or more like the person who had been on his mind for thest few days had been Zhai Kuijun. From the moment heid his eyes on that man, he knew he had seen him somewhere. Originally, he couldn''t tell where.

    But it was when he came back home and looked at his mother that it clicked. He had seen Zhai Kuijun''s picture in his mother''s drawer. It was actually a newspaper cutting and since there was only the picture, he didn''t know the name of the man. At that time, he was about 7 years old and didn''t think much about it.

    Later, he had seen his mother burning that newspaper cutting while she shed silent tears. He had seen how hurt his mother looked at that time. He also saw how she looked so lonely just standing there, seemingly saying goodbye to something. He didn''t know who she was parting with but he knew she looked to be in deep pain. A pain that he was unable to understand.

    This memory had been buried somewhere in his mind and was pulled out once he saw that man in person. Although his memory wasn''t as impable as Raelle''s, he had his own talent. He''d never forget the faces. And that''s why, even though he had only seen Zhai Kuijun''s picture, he remembered it.

    "Do you think I''m assuming things wrongly?" questioned Hyson. "There is a possibility that mum cherished that photo because she once had a crush on him. But the ''sperm donor'' is a different person?"

    "I don''t think so," was Raelle''s honest response. "But if you don''t believe in mere my judgment, I can offer you two solutions." She faced him and went on, "We can do a paternity test or you can just go home and open the ''letter of truth'' your mother gave you years ago."

    Hyson heaved a long and heavy sigh. "Before today, I had no interest in opening that letter and learning about the truth of my birth. But now, I''m actually a bit scared to open it. And I don''t even know why."

    Raelle ced her arms around him and hugged him. She even tried tofort him by patting his back.. Although her movements seem mechanical, it was quite soothing to Hyson who really needed her right by his side.

 Chapter 414 - Cute Little Sister

    "I know why you''re scared," said Raelle. "It''s the same thing with Zhai Yanjun. You were scared that his presence would change something in your life. And that thought alone was scary to you. Now, with this matter, you are again scared of the change this truth can bring to your life." She pulled him away and looked into his eyes, "But let me ask you when did start allowing other people to dictate the flow of your life? If you stay unbothered, no one can change anything."

    Hyson gave her a self-deprecating smile as he said, "If he is really that man, do you know what that makes me? It really makes me a bastard son. That man is married to my mother''s sister!"

    Raelle pinched his ear and twisted it emotionlessly making him scream in pain.

    "What the hell?! Are you trying tofort me or kill me?"

    "I was just trying to knock back your senses," replied Raelle. "Don''t go around calling yourself an illegitimate child. So what of it? You''re not some rare person in the world who is born out of wedlock. By calling yourself a bastard, you''re looking down on yourself. And I won''t take that lying down." Hyson''s eyes reddened as he heard her words. "Besides, do you think you''re in the worst condition than me? You''re just a misbegotten child. I am a rejected one. Have you ever seen me looking down on myself for that?"

    "Only a fool would reject you," he argued.

    Raelle nodded to show that she agreed with those words. She pushed his hair away from his forehead as she said, "And only a fool would look down on you for being a fatherless child."

    "I have actually never felt bad about being a fatherless child though," said Hyson. "But that man''s identity is bothering me. I feel like going over to beat him up for hurting my mum."

    "Easy there, kitten!"

    Hyson red at her, "Kitten? Seriously?"

    "Well, you''re acting like a kitten at the moment," she exined. "Ready to scratch someone to death. Oh, so scary!"

    "Don''t say things like that with that expressionless face," said Hyson feeling helpless.

    "Why? Is it scary?"

    "No, it makes me want tough."

    "Thenugh," she said. "Laughter suits you better than this look you''re wearing right now."

    Hysonughed softly as he ced his head on her shoulder again and stated, "I actually had some good feelings for Zhai Yanjun."

    "And now?"

    "Now, it just getsplicated."

    "Is it?" she asked. "Isn''t it the same? Whether he is your cousin brother or half-brother, he is still a brother who seems to want to protect you. In fact, he looked like a fool yesterday running around you."

    "Do you think it''d be the same if he learned about what kind of rtionship we really have?"

    Raelle contemted for a while and nodded her head, "From what I saw, he doesn''t seem like someone who''d distant himself from you just because of this so-called truth."

    "He really shouldn''t hate me, right?" questioned Hyson. "I am pretty sure that my birth was just an ident. There is no way my mum would scheme against her own sister''s husband even if she really loved him. She isn''t that kind of a person. She just isn''t!"

    Raelle caught something from his words and rubbed his head saying, "My attention fairy, aren''t you more scared of the fact that Yanjun might end up hating you after this truthe out?" Hyson''s body stiffened as her words made him realize that as well. "You seem to like him already."

    Hyson tsked as he said, "Why do I always get elder brothers in life? I already have Zhen Ge, Wen Ge, Yi Ge, Zi Hong Ge, and there is even Xian Ge now. Why did I have to find another Ge like Yanjun?" He looked heavenward and asked, "If you''re offering me a sibling, couldn''t you offer an elder sister instead?" He suddenly shook his head, "No, sorry! I forgot you already gave me the best elder sister in the world." He grinned at Raelle who was the only elder sister he was willing to ept. Even though she was only months older than him. "Then how about a cute little sister? Wouldn''t that have been a better deal?"

    "So, you want a cute little sister?" questioned Raelle.

    "I do," he told her honestly. "I have always been the youngest one. I feel bored of it. Now, I want a cute sister whom I could spoil." He shook his head helplessly, "I even forced mum to go out on a date in hopes that it will work out and eventually, I''ll get my younger sister. But no! She just thinks I am enough. I even forced Yanyan but even she is not willing. What is wrong with these people?" He grumbled to himself for a long time until his eyes settled on Raelle and slowly narrowed with a crafty expression.

    "Don''t even think about it," warned Raelle.

    Hyson sighed out, "You''re right. Even if you gave birth to a little cute girl, she''ll be my niece. That''s different than having a little sister. Although I''d still spoil my niece, however, she won''t be calling me Gege in her cute voice."

    "Let me crack open your head and see which circuit is acting up again."

    Hyson stuck his tongue out at her. Having a conversation with Raelle had eased up his mind. Even if there weren''t many words spoken between them, they both understood each other.

    Whether it was Zhai Yanjun or Zhai Kuijun, both couldn''t possibly disrupt his peaceful life as long as he didn''t allow anyone to do so. As Raelle had said, Zhai Kuijun was at most a ''sperm donor'', who had no right on him, to begin with. Why was he so confused about it earlier?

    Even if he was scared of hurting his mother, she wasn''t alone now. He was there to protect her. There was also Raelle, Yanyan, and even Grandfather Xiang.. His mother''s family might have not stood up for her, but he could stake his life on the fact the people he called his family would never leave their side.

 Chapter 415 - Life

    Even as the sun slowly rose, both Hyson and Raelle didn''t move from their position. Hyson had his eyes closed as he continued to ponder over Raelle''s words. He usually didn''t even need her words to understand her. But even her words always had more to it than it seemed.

    To him, she was that ray of enlightenment who made him understand his own thoughts. In fact, these best friends actually had their brains on the same wavelength. It was just that Raelle had a clear understanding of her own thoughts while Hyson always needed her to see things clearly. Everything she said wasn''t much different than what he had in mind but it made a difference when she said it.

    "Ellie!"

    "Hm?"

    "Have you ever thought about what life is?"

    Raelle tilted her head to nce at him as she replied, "I don''t have as much time to waste."

    Hyson''s eyes were still closed as the sunlight slowly caressed his face and hearing her answer, the corner of his lips tilted up slightly.

    "Since you''re already wasting your time here with me, why don''t you ponder for a minute?" insisted Hyson. "What is life to you?"

    Raelle followed his words and pondered over them for exactly one minute as he had told her to do so. She didn''t take less or more before she answered, "Breathing."

    Hyson''s eyes snapped open and looked back at her. "What did you just say?"

    "I said life is breathing," answered Raelle. "Once you stop breathing, you''d be dead."

    Hyson opened his mouth but he didn''t know how to refute her words. For someone like her, life was really just breathing. There was no other meaning to her life. At least, she never thought deeply about it. And even if she did, she might really end up answering the same thing. Breathing was all there was to life.

    He suddenly let out a deep breath and nodded, "You''re right. Life is all about breathing. Aren''t we working so hard to fill our stomachs just so we can continue breathing? Even a drowning man struggles all for that one breath that could keep him alive."

    "Why are you suddenly even thinking about it?" asked Raelle.

    "Just wanted to," he answered carelessly.

    While they both weren''t paying attention, Shui Xian hade looking for Raelle and somehow Lin Zhen ended up following him since his dog, Coco couldn''t let go of Shui Xian. He really was questioning himself if he was really being betrayed by his own dog?

    When he looked at the back view of Raelle and Hyson sitting there together, he felt like the scene was quite harmonious.

    "Fai!" Shui Xian called out and Hyson turned his head to look at him. "How are you doing?"

    Hyson smiled at Shui Xian, "I''m as peachy as ever."

    Shui Xian chuckled at his nonchnt response and shook his head but he actually believed Hyson''s words. After all, he could see that Hyson was really as ''peachy'' as he said so. He looked a lot rxed and carefree thanst night. And this realization made him feel at ease as well.

    "It''s good," he replied.

    Hyson frowned at Shui Xian andmented, "Xian Ge, have you noticed?"

    "What?"

    "You''ve been treating me like I''m your son since yesterday," replied Hyson. "Is this what fatherly care is?"

    Shui Xian scratched his head as he didn''t know how to reply to that. Since Hyson was younger than him, he might have really ended up treating him like he was a kid.

    "But dear father," continued Hyson cheekily. "This son is very happy to see that you''re so worried about me."

    While Shui Xian red at him, Lin Zhen ended upughing. He coughed to disguise hisughter and said, "Sorry for that."

    Hyson looked at Lin Zhen and said, "Zhen Ge, you''re no better. If he''s been acting like a father, you''ve been acting like a mother for years now."

    Lin Zhen red at him, "What are you saying?"

    Hyson shrugged his shoulders, "Do you want me to call Yi Ge? He can prove that you really act like a mother who is always worried about everything."

    "Don''t talk nonsense," reprimanded Lin Zhen but his voice didn''t really have any intimidation. He seemed like he was just yfully talking to Hyson.

    Hyson stood up and went to Lin Zhen saying, "Zhen Ge, thank you for lending your precious dog to my family''s Ellie. To repay the favor, how about I invite you over for breakfast?"

    Lin Zhen looked at Shui Xian and Raelle who now stood together not that far from them and shook his head, "There is no need for that."

    Hyson followed his eyes and looked at Shui Xian and Raelle before saying, "Don''t look at them. They don''t live with us." He ced his arm around Lin Zhen''s shoulder as he added, "Let''s go. Don''t always act so polite with me. I''ll introduce you to my mum."

    Lin Zhen opened his mouth but he didn''t get the chance to refute since Hyson had already dragged him. Lin Zhen was actually in a daze for a moment. Hyson had never introduced his mother to any of them. Although he talked about her, he never explicitly mentioned anything about her.

    "Is he okay?" asked Shui Xian to Raelle when Hyson left.

    "Didn''t he just tell you that he is?" She nced at him and added, "He doesn''t lie either. At most, he can hide things but he isn''t that good with hiding either."

    "Only you''d say that,"mented Shui Xian. He held her hand and walked beside her, "Let''s go home now. We''ve been out for a long time."

    Raelle nodded her head, "Yes, let''s hurry up. We have a lot of shopping to do today."

    Shui Xian closed his eyes helplessly. They were still going shopping.. That fact that he wished would change overnight didn''t change at all. Seriously, why was it so difficult to change his wife''s mind?

 Chapter 416 - Gentleness?

    "I say, let''s build a greenhouse!"

    ''No! You only want to keep this camelia nt for some weird reason. Why build such a big greenhouse?''

    "What do you mean by that? This flower pot is quite special to me!"

    ''But it still doesn''t need a whole greenhouse!''

    "I just want to provide it with the best atmosphere to grow!"

    ''What is it? A kid?''

    "Yue, you can''t prejudice like this," retorted Mu Chenyan. "nts are also like babies. They also have feelings!"

    ''And you''re so kind-hearted? Since when?''

    "I have always been kind-hearted!"

    Yue rolled her eyes at Mu Chenyan unceremonially, ''Please, don''t continue! I might puke!''

    Grandfather Xiang had been listening to these two arguing back and forth for over half an hour now. They both were being stubborn. And the fight was over just one flower pot? What the hell was wrong with these women? They both had reached their forties but acted worse than Raelle and Hyson.

    "Daughters!" Grandfather Xiang shouted in his intimidating voice. "Why are you both so difficult? I didn''t even worry this much about Hyson and Raelle."

    Both Mu Chenyan and Yue stopped arguing and lowered their heads before Grandfather Xiang acted like well-behaved kids. But he knew that they both were pretending. Neither of them was feeling embarrassed or guilty!

    Grandfather Xiang rubbed his forehead as he said, "I really wonder how did you two manage to raise Hyson and Raelle. It''s really a mystery to me." He sighed out, "What''s the situation?"

    "I found a dying camelia nt, I want to raise it," said Mu Chenyan. "I thought building a greenhouse is good. But Yue thinks I''m overreacting."

    ''You''re overreacting,'' was Yue''s response.

    "Well, you are really overreacting," added Grandfather Xiang. "You can just keep the nt in your bedroom. Wouldn''t that make it easier to take care of it?"

    "But Yue isn''t letting me raise it!" argued Mu Chenyan.

    Grandfather Xiang looked at Yue, "Yue, you''re always a lot sweeter than this bitter melon gourd. Why are you arguing with her?"

    Yue looked up at him and pouted, ''She will kill the nt! She doesn''t have an ounce of gentleness in her hands. Once I left her take care of this nt, it''ll die even before the sunrise!''

    Grandfather Xiang pressed his lips together. He actually had to agree with that. There was no such thing as gentleness about Mu Chenyan. Her only gentleness was already exhausted on Hyson and Raelle. She even cooked in an aggressive manner. It''d really be a wonder if this nt really survived in her hands.

    "Then you take care of it for her," suggested Grandfather Xiang.

    "No!" retorted Mu Chenyan. "It''s mine! I will take care of it. I promise I''ll do my best this time."

    Grandfather Xiang thought about it for a minute and said, "Then do it." He looked at Yue and said, "Let her be. Since she really wants to take care of it, let her do it."

    Yue looked at the camelia nt with sympathy in her eyes. She could already see its impending doom. Tsk!

    Mu Chenyan looked at Yue smugly and even childishly stuck her tongue out. Yue only shook her head in response and even rolled her eyes. ''Let''s see how long you can keep it alive.''

    "You just watch!" said Mu Chenyan with conviction. She wasn''t willing to back down. What was so difficult about raising a nt? She had raised the most difficult person in the world! This nt was really nothing difficult before Raelle.

    ''I''ll be watching closely with both my eyes open!''

    "Are you both not finished yet?" questioned Grandfather Xiang as he stared at them again. What was up with them? How could they argue so pettily? Was it okay for them to act like this? "What kind of best friends are so petty? Have you seen Raelle or Hyson being petty?"

    "Elder Xiang, you can''tpare us to them," said Mu Chenyan.

    He stared deeply at Mu Chenyan and asked, "Exactly why are you finding reasons to argue with Yue? Did something happen that I don''t know about?"

    Mu Chenyan bit her bottom lip as she looked at Yue Yue. Well, she seemed to be ring at Yue Yue. Grandfather Xiang found it a bit odd.

    "What did she do?"

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her nose as she told him, "She said she wants to go back home."

    Grandfather Xiang looked at Yue, "Isn''t this home?"

    "Exactly!" argued Mu Chenyan. "That''s what I said! If we are a family, does it matter where the home is as long as we are together? But she is stubborn as always? It''s annoying!"

    ''I eventually have to leave,'' responded Yue.

    Grandfather Xiang looked at her, "And why is that?"

    Yue couldn''t keep her spirit under his gaze. She had always been scared of Grandfather Xiang. It wasn''t because he was scary but he just gave off a certain feeling of authority. It was undeniable that he had been a father figure in her life for over a decade now. She really admired him and revered him. Even her fear was just like how kids are often scared of their fathers.

    ''I only came to live here because of Fai''s ident,'' even she wasn''t certain of her own reasons at this point.

    "Fai calls me Opa just like Raelle does," said Grandfather Xiang. "For me, he is no different than Raelle. Why are you trying to separate the family here?" He took a brief pause, "We are a family, right?"

    Yue nodded her head without any hesitation. She honestly believed them to be her only family in all these years. They had always been silently supporting her for years. How could she not see their sincerity and love?

    "Then?" started Grandfather Xiang. "Stop overthinking about this and just stay where you are. Can''t you see our family''s Chenyan is about to start crying if you insisted on leaving?"

    While Yue looked at Mu Chenyan, thetter haughtily retorted, "It isn''t that easy to make me cry."

    Yue smiled silently when she heard that. But she wasn''t blind. She could tell that Mu Chenyan''s temper was so disturbed because of her.. No wonder she had been looking for things to argue for no reason.

 Chapter 417 - Attention Fairy

    Hyson asked one of the stewards to help look after Lin Zhen''s dog while he took Lin Zhen inside. Only aftering here, Lin Zhen realized that thest time Hyson had called him out for dinner, it was actually at the house right next door.

    "I''m back!" Hyson announced loudly as he entered through the door.

    "Where did you go early in the morning?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "I went to enjoy the sunrise," answered Hyson.

    "Oh," Mu Chenyan had a look of realization. "It''s that day of the month."

    Hyson''s lips twitched when he heard her words, "Yanyan, why does it sound so strange when you say that?"

    Mu Chenyan shrugged her shoulders nonchntly to indicate that she had no idea what he was talking about. Seeing her oh-so innocent look, he was quite amused and helpless.

    It was Grandfather Xiang who first noticed Lin Zhen''s presence, "Fai, did you bring a guest?"

    Hyson stopped and nodded. He turned to pull Lin Zhen up and grinned, "I met him on the track and invited him over for breakfast to say thank you." Taking a pause, he decided to exin why he was thanking Lin Zhen, "Ellie borrowed his dog the other day since Xian Ge seems to like his dog a lot."

    "Isn''t he the leader of your group?" inquired Mu Chenyan as she recognized Lin Zhen. If even Raelle knew Lin Zhen, it''d be surprising if Mu Chenyan didn''t know. In fact, all of these people were familiar with Hyson''s group mates even though they have never met them in person before.

    "He is," answered Hyson. "Zhen Ge," he turned to Lin Zhen and continued, "Say hi! That''s my Opa. That''s Yanyan and that''s my mum."

    Lin Zhen bowed down a little to greet them all in a well-mannered way.

    "Don''t just stand there," said Grandfather Xiang. "Come and sit down." Then he looked at Mu Chenyan and Yue Yue, "And if you bothdies are done embarrassing yourselves for today, see what''s for breakfast. We have a guest."

    Mu Chenyan suddenly pped her hand surprising everyone, "Aiya! I had congee on the stove!" As she said that, she ran off to the kitchen.

    Behind her, Yue Yue''s mouth opened as well as she realized that she had also put the soup on the stove. She gave Hyson a look and instructed, ''Take care of the guest.''

    Lin Zhen looked at this scene and for a moment had ck lines on his head. Hyson shook his head at him and told him, "Before you ask, my mum can''t speak."

    Lin Zhen was stunned when he heard that. This was really something he had never expected. Hyson never mentioned anything regarding this either. And if he didn''t say anything, none of them had no way of knowing.

    "Xiao Fai," called out Grandfather Xiang. "Aren''t you being too stingy but inviting him over for just breakfast?"

    "Then should we keep him for lunch as well?" suggested Hyson.

    "Don''t you have ns to go shopping with Raelle?"

    Hyson shook his head, "I changed my mind. I definitely don''t wanna be the third-wheeler. Although Ellie''s fashion sense isn''t as great as mine, it''s still eptable. It''s better than what Xian Ge has in his closet anyway."

    "I won''t be staying though," Lin Zhen suddenly spoke up. "I have to meet my grandparents for lunch."

    "Oh, a filial grandson,"mented Grandfather Xiang. "Good. That''s really good."

    "Opa, I''m also very filial," said Hyson in a way that clearly showed that he was looking for praises.

    Grandfather Xiang smiled at his antics and ruffled his head, "Yes, yes. Our Fai is obviously the best of the best." Hyson grinned in happiness. "Now, go and freshen up before breakfast."

    Hyson nodded his head and looked at Lin Zhen, "Ge, I''ll be right back with you!"

    Lin Zhen gave him a nod in response. But after he left, Lin Zhen felt a bit uneasy. There was actually no reason for him to feel uneasy but he couldn''t help it right now. He even sat up straight, squaring his shoulders as if he was going to war.

    "Rx a little," said Grandfather Xiang in a gentle voice. At least, he thought that he was being gentle right now. "No one is gonna eat you up here."

    Lin Zhen smiled sheepishly, "Sorry."

    "There is no need to apologize," said Grandfather Xiang. "Actually, we''ve been meaning to ask Fai to bring all of his group members over for a meal. We always wanted to thank you all for taking such good care of him for all these years." He took a pause and sighed softly, "But Fai said he''d just treat you guys himself."

    Lin Zhen nodded his head in understanding. For all these years, Hyson had been treating them to a lot of meals and he even told them how he had been instructed by his family to show his gratitude to all his older brothers who always took care of him.

    "He always kept his words," he told Grandfather Xiang. "He took us out for a meal way too many times."

    Grandfather Xiang smiled at him, "I know. He''d never say what he isn''t willing to do. If he said, he''d treat you all, he''d definitely done it." He looked straight at Lin Zhen as he added, "But it''s still our responsibility as his family to show you all that we are really thankful for everything you''ve done. Let''s not talk about anything else, the fact alone that you all really treat him as a younger brother is enough for us to feel thankful."

    "He is a cute little brother,"mented Lin Zhen with a smile on his face. "I don''t think people can even bring themselves to hate him. Besides, he always gives back a hundredfold. If we love him as a younger brother, he really respects us as his Older brothers."

    Grandfather Xiang was naturally happy to hear that someone wasplimenting his family''s adorable bunny who actually called himself a fairy. More like, attention fairy!

 Chapter 418 - Blind

    "Fai, I made this shredded chicken congee for you," Mu Chenyan ced the congee bowl in front of Hyson and lovingly gazed at him.

    Yue pushed her aside and put the soup on the table, ''I simmered it for a long time. It''s perfect for you.''

    "Hey!" Mu Chenyan''s voice raised up a little. "Are you trying to say that my congee is not good enough for him?"

    ''I''m saying you should stop hovering around my son!''

    "Is he not my son?" retorted Mu Chenyan.

    Lin Zhen had never seen such a scene before. He leaned close to Hyson and asked, "Which one is really a mother?"

    "Both are," answered Hyson. Lin Zhen raised his brow at him and he borated, "And no, they are not a couple."

    "I did not say that," gritted out Lin Zhen.

    "I still wanted to make it clear since they love bicker like an old married couple and that makes people assume stuff," stated Hyson from experience. He pointed at Mu Chenyan and told him, "She is my godmother." Then he pointed at Yue, "And she is my birth mother." Again, his finger moved towards Mu Chenyan as he continued, "She is like a hot chili." And moving to Yue, "She is like a sweet and soft peach."

    "I can see that," said Lin Zhen. Even though he had just met them, he could tell that Mu Chenyan had a bit of fiery light in her eyes while Yue was leaning towards sweet and soft eyes. It wasn''t difficult to see what their personalities were like.

    Grandfather Xiang ced his chopstick down with a bang and said to Mu Chenyan and Yue Yue, "Both of you, are you seriously not done for the day?"

    Yue Yue gave him a pout, ''She doesn''t let me take care of my son.''

    "Shouldn''t you be happy?" asked Grandfather Xiang. "You have got freebor. And this idiot is even more willing to work for you!"

    Mu Chenyan''s lips twitched, "Elder Xiang, is it okay for you to roast me like this in the presence of a guest?"

    "Oh, so you both know that we have a guest over?" Grandfather Xiang sounded sarcastic. "I thought you both had problems with your eyes today along with your brains!"

    Hyson pursed his lips to hide hisughter that was threatening to burst out.

    "Now I know why seemed a bit spoiled to me when we first met,"mented Lin Zhen in a soft voice to Hyson. "With two pampering mothers, it''d be a surprise if you didn''t be a little spoiled."

    "I am a very good boy," argued Hyson. How did he seem spoiled? Was there anyone more innocent than him around here? No way! He''d never allow anyone to say he was spoiled. Even if he was spoiled.

    But in all honesty, Hyson didn''t think he acted spoiled at all. He had always been a very well-behaved person. But he might have a bit of arrogance in his bones because of these doting mothers around him. Besides, his best friend also doted on him. And his best friend is Raelle Xiang. Didn''t this fact alone was enough for him to be arrogant?

    "I apologize for this," said Grandfather Xiang to Lin Zhen. "But don''t mind them and enjoy the meal."

    Lin Zhen was actually in a good mood as he nodded, "Don''t worry. I don''t mind." He''d have never thought Hyson''s family was just as easy-going as him. But then again, it also became clear where Hyson''s personality was cultivated. With these people''s presence, it was no wonder that Hyson turned out into such a unique person.

    "Lin Zhen, right?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Next time,e over for lunch or dinner. Breakfast is too simple."

    "This is quite sumptuous though," Lin Zhen meant his words as he gazed at the table full of food. He didn''t know if it was just because of him or they usually ate like this but this breakfast was too grand.

    In fact, the breakfast was grand because he was here. Otherwise, the Xiang family had no habits of wasting food. At most, one or two extra things would be prepared to cater to either Hyson''s taste or Raelle''s.

    "No, it''s too simple," argued Mu Chenyan. "I heard from our Fai that you live around here and that''s perfect. You cane over for a meal whenever you want." She paused and asked, "You live alone, right?"

    "Do you?" questioned Hyson.

    "What''s with that look on your face?" asked Lin Zhen as he furrowed his brows at Hyson''s expressions.

    "I always thought you''re keeping a secret lover in your house," said Hyson.

    Lin Zhen stared at him, "Seriously?"

    Hyson shrugged, "You''ve been eager to get back home,tely. It can make anyone suspicious."

    "Fai," called Mu Chenyan. "Don''t be nosy."

    "I wasn''t," replied Hyson obediently and concentrated on eating.

    "As I said, you live alone already. It''s alright toe over whenever you want. We don''t mind."

    Yue Yue also nodded her head to agree with Mu Chenyan.

    "See? Even Yue said yes. So, you shoulde more often. Actually, bring the other three in your group as well. I''ve always wanted to meet you all in person."

    Yue Yue again nodded her head, ''Do bring them all.''

    Mu Chenyan smiled at him and tranted her hand signs for Lin Zhen, "Yue said you should bring them all."

    Hyson silently shook his head at the eager expressions of his mother and Mu Chenyan. Both thesedies had always been pestering him to invite his group members over so they could meet in person. Now that he showed them, Lin Zhen, these two were definitely gonna drag the other three over.

    He amusedly ate his congee and finished it all. It was one of his favorite things since it was made by Yanyan. And then even if he was full, he had to grab a bowl of the soup that his mother brewed personally.. He couldn''t favor one and not the other.

 Chapter 419 - Crush

    With his hands in his pants pocket, Cui Xukun stood beside the elevator in the parking as he waited for Cloe. When Cloe came downstairs, she found him quite easily. Just at her sight, he lifted his hand on instinct and smiled, "Hi!"

    Cloe looked at his bright smile and felt like it was too bright for her eyes in the morning. Usually, her mornings began with seeing Raelle''s expressionless face. Or she''d be faced with those polite and business smiles from her colleagues. Therefore, she wasn''t really used to starting her day with such a sincere and genuine smile.

    However, she didn''t seem to dislike this smile of his.

    "Morning," she greeted him. "About earlier on the balcony..."

    "I didn''t see anything," Cui Xukun blurted out without even thinking. As his sister said, girls often didn''t like showing their bad sides to their boyfriends. At least, not when they had just started dating. Although he didn''t think there was anything wrong with Cloe''s bedhead, he still had to make himself clear.

    Cloe''s lips curled up ever so slightly in amusement as she asked, "Oh, really?"

    Cui Xukun nodded his head like a chicken pecking on grains, "I didn''t. Really! I have morning blindness."

    "Huh?"

    Cui Xukun avoided his eyes as he stated, "People have night blindness but I have the peculiar morning blindness. I really didn''t see anything on the balcony."

    Cloe bit the inside of her cheek to stop herself fromughing out, "That''s interesting." Just as Cui Xukun thought she was about to let this matter go, she added, "But then, how did you know where to send the breakfast?"

    Cui Xukun scratched the back of his neck and cursed himself inwardly. "I just knew..." he said uncertainly.

    Cloe gasped, "Are you a stalker?"

    "No!" Cui Xukun hurriedly iled his hands. "It''s nothing like that. You don''t really think that I bought the apartment beside yours because I was stalking you, right?"

    "You didn''t?"

    "No, that''s my sister''s ce," answered Cui Xukun, trying to prove his innocence. "I came early, that''s why I was just waiting there."

    Cloeughed out loud as she stared at him, "I''m just teasing you."

    "Oh..." he responded.

    "You get easily flustered," shemented and shook her head helplessly as she walked ahead. "Let''s go now."

    Cui Xukun nodded and strode ahead of her to direct her towards his car. He even went on to open the door for her before going over to sit.

    "Isn''t your sister married?" Cloe suddenly questioned. "Or is this another sister?"

    Cui Xukun fastened his seatbelt as he replied, "I only have one sister and she is indeed married."

    "Then why is she living alone?"

    Cui Xukun had a helpless look on his face as he told her, "She loves her privacy. Her ''me time'' is very important to her and during that ''me time'' she doesn''t like interacting with people. Usually, she lives alone when she is working on a case that''s a bit tricky."

    "Soren lets her go easily?" Noticing his gaze, she added, "Don''t get me wrong. I meant that Soren seems to love her a lot and I didn''t think he''d be okay with letting her live alone."

    Cui Xukunughed out, "You''re right about that. My brother-inw really loves her. But it''s also true that he really spoils her as well. I don''t remember the time when he had ever said no to her for anything. If she wants to be willful, he''ll let her be. If she wants to beat him, he''ll let her be. Even if she wants tomit a crime, he''ll still stand by her side."

    Cloe leaned back in her seat as shemented, "I didn''t know Soren would make such a husband."

    Cui Xukun smiled softly, "Do you know that my sister is older than me by 6 years?" Cloe tilted her head towards him as he continued, "Since our parents had been traveling for work, she seemed to have taken the responsibility of raising me. She was always the responsible one between the two of us." He suddenly chuckled as he went on, "But then she met brother-inw who is 7 years younger than her. Strangely, in their rtionship, he seems the responsible one."

    Cloe had a thoughtful look on her face, "With you, she had responsibilities. But with Soren, she could allow herself to be free. When you love someone, you''d want to depend on that person. And since Soren is willing to ept all of her, that made her let loose for once."

    Cui Xukun nodded his head in agreement, "I know. They have one of the most beautiful rtionships I havee across." He took a pause and asked, "By the way, where are we going?"

    "I don''t know," she answered. "I just called you out, that doesn''t mean I have a n." For the first time in a long time, she was doing something without any n whatsoever. "You can just drive around. Let''s see where we end up today."

    Cui Xukun found her words weird but he didn''t question further. It was enough for him that they were together. Did it matter where they were going? He''d just take her for a long drive.

    While he drove with a happy smile, Cloe perched her elbow on the window and supported her face on her fist as she continued to look at the side of his face with an intent gaze. It was such an intense gaze that Cui Xukun felt fidgety. Cloe found it really interesting how her gaze seemed to always have an effect on him.

    She was trying to figure out why that was it? Why did he always get so flustered around her? Her belief was getting stronger with time. He really looked like he was going out with his crush and found it too unbelievable. Was it really like that? But how could that be? She didn''t think they met before.

    Was it first at love sight? Sheughed at her own thoughts inwardly. It was really hard not to.. Even if she loved the romance genre, she had never really believed in ''love at first sight''.

 Chapter 420 - White Lie

    "No," came Raelle''s straightforward answer. She skimmed through the racks of clothing and pulled out another outfit for him. "Try this one."

    Shui Xian took it from her and went back inside the changing room to change without anyints. He had been doing it for an hour now. Although he was tired, he was resistant at all. Well, he couldn''t possibly bring himself to be resistant to what she wanted.

    Raelle went around the whole store looking for clothes that would catch her eyes.

    "How about this?"

    Raelle turned around to look at Shui Xian and observed him from head to toe before shaking her head, "It''s good but not really."

    Shui Xian came over to her side, "Baby, shouldn''t you be saying ''everything looks good on you, hubby''?"

    Raelle nced at him, "I don''t lie."

    The shop attendant following them, lowered her head to purse her lips to hide her smile. She had been following this couple since the time they walked in and she had to say, it was quite an experience.

    Shui Xian sighed out, "But it''s a white lie to make your husband happy."

    "A lie is a lie," she replied. "ck or white, doesn''t really matter."

    "But a white lie is the one that doesn''t necessarily hurt people," he argued. "It''s just to give me a moment''s happiness."

    "Why should we build a building of happiness that cane tumbling down with just a single truth?"

    "That''s deep," mumbled the shop attendant in a low voice. However, both Raelle and Shui Xian heard her voice. Noticing their gazes set on her, she immediately bowed, "Sorry!"

    Raelle didn''t pursue this as she looked back at Shui Xian, "Since I''m the one buying here, it''s my choice."

    Shui Xian gaped at her, "Wifey, I''m the one who is gonna wear it."

    "But I''m the one who is gonna see you wearing it," she retorted. And before he could continue, she added, "What? Are you gonna see what you''re wearing all day? No! It''s my eyes who are gonna be focused on you. So, I''d like you to wear what my eyes find likable."

    Shui Xian wanted to refute but he couldn''t do it. There was no chance. She was telling the truth. The only time he was gonna look at himself was when he looked at the mirror. His shoulders slumped down a little. He really wasn''t born to win in a battle with his wife. Suddenly, he recalled something, "Wife, did you just say you''re buying everything for me?"

    Raelle nodded her head, "Didn''t you notice earlier? I paid with my own card."

    "Not with the one I gave you?"

    Raelle shook her head, "Why would I use your money to buy you clothes? Does that even make sense?"

    A smile bloomed on Shui Xian''s face, "Wife, I suddenly feel like floating."

    "Why?"

    "You''re buying me clothes!"

    Raelle looked at him strangely, "So?"

    "That''s special!"

    "How?" She asked. "Isn''t it normal?"

    Shui Xian went over and flicked her forehead but he did it softly, "How am I supposed to make you understand that it''s special? Just know that since I said it, it''s special. It''s extremely special!"

    "Oh-okay," she answered. Although she really didn''t understand what it really meant to him, she was willing to just go along with him. As he said, it''s special. And if he said it, then so be it!

    In the end, Raelle picked up 3 shirts and 2 pairs of pants from this store. As for who would be carrying the bags, of course, that''s the job of her bodyguards who followed behind her uniformly today.

    Shui Xian felt his feet were really not touching the ground as he happily dragged her around. Raelle found his excessive happiness to be quite strange. So, she asked, "Hubby, are you that happy that I''m spending money on you?"

    Shui Xian stopped to look at her and nodded his head with his eyes sparkling brightly. He was really over the moon right now. It wasn''t every day someone would pay for him. He was more than capable of buying everything on his own but it was just like Raelle. She also had money but she found the experience of having her own pocket money to be quite novel. He was just like her. She had brought him out shopping. It was a new experience since he wasn''t the one paying.

    Raelle took in his happiness and pulled out her wallet and offered him a card saying, "Then you can take this."

    Shui Xian looked at the card in her hand and raised his brows at her inquisitively.

    "Since you like spending money, you can spend it all you want," she said. "This is my bank card."

    Shui Xian was stunned before a helpless smile spread on his face, "How much is in it?"

    "More than you can spend," she answered honestly.

    "Aren''t you scared that I might empty your ount?" he questioned.

    "I can earn it back," she said straightforwardly.

    Shui Xianughed out as he rubbed her head, "How can you be this cute?" He pushed her card back to her saying, "You keep this money safe for now. Who knows what the future holds? What if one day you have to raise your husband with this money?"

    "It''s okay, I''ll raise you well," she said sincerely.

    Shui Xianughed heartily as he pulled her in his arms, "Sweetheart, don''t say such things. It makes me want to kiss you so badly."

    "Go ahead!" she answered.

    "I suddenly don''t feel like it," he said out of nowhere.

    "Huh?"

    "You didn''tpliment me earlier," he sulked. "You should say your husband looks good in everything."

    Raelle paused for a moment to think before she said, "You look handsome in everything."

    Shui Xian gave her an amused look, "You don''t even sound sincere. Is it really such a big lie that you can''t even make it sound believable?"

    "How else am I supposed to say?"

    Shui Xian ruffled her hair on purpose and hooked their arms together saying, "Forget it."

 Chapter 421 - This & That

    Shui Xian never thought shopping could be this fun. Even though he was being pushed around but he was happy to y the role of the model today. Noints whatsoever!

    As they were walking past the music store, Shui Xian''s steps slowed down as his eyes got stuck on the guitar in the disy. It reminded him of his own guitar that had been with him since the first time he had a dream of pursuing music.

    How could it be that Raelle wouldn''t notice his actions when she literally had her eyes set on him? She followed his eyes and looked at the acoustic guitar that had caught all of his attention. She nced back at him and asked, "Do you want to go inside to take a look?"

    Shui Xian was pulled out of his reverie and he shook his head at her, "Nah. I was just looking."

    "I can buy it for you," she told him.

    Shui Xian smiled at her, "I know. But I don''t need it. What''s the point of buying it?"

    "Who said you have to buy it when you need it?" Shui Xian''s brows quirked up as she went on, "Somethings are bought without a need for them."

    "Don''t you dislike wasting money?"

    Raelle nodded, "I do, but that doesn''t mean I have never wasted money."

    Shui Xian pulled her along, away from the music store saying, "I really don''t want it. Let''s go to ''Moonlight'' instead. I''ll buy you a pendant. What do you say?"

    "You''re gonna take me to your brand to get a pendant?"

    "I''m gonna customize one," he told her.

    "It''s not needed," she replied.

    "Well, it''s needed," he insisted. "The pendant you like is designed by mother. I want to give you one designed one by me. It''ll have our initials as well. R for Raelle and X for Xian. RX. Perfect! Or should I go with R ''heart'' X?" He mumbled to himself without caring whether she liked the idea or not.

    "There is an entertainment giant named, RX Studios," Raelle was suddenly reminded of that.

    Shui Xian looked back at her, "Wifey, do you have to bring business into this?"

    "I just recalled it so I pointed it out," she said innocently. "I don''t think you haven''t heard about it. After all, even I heard about it even though I have no connection with the entertainment industry. As for you, half of your businesses are connected with the entertainment industry."

    Shui Xian nodded in agreement, "I have heard about it. Coincidentally, the RX in RX Studios is also the initials for Regan and Xiu. They are also a couple and in fact, Mr. Regan Darren Salvay built RX Studios for his wife Xiu."

    "You really know," remarked Raelle.

    "I do," answered Shui Xian. "There are hardly people who don''t know the backstory. Especially, if one is in the entertainment circle, it''s hard not to know the details." Saying that he dragged her inside the Moonlight outlet. The staff greeted them enthusiastically and even the manager came out to greet them. Shui Xian pulled out his phone and said to the manager, "I just sent you the design. Have it customized as soon as possible!"

    "Yes, Master Xian."

    "You already have the design?" Raelle asked.

    "Hmm..." Shui Xian hummed in response. "I''ve been working on it since I went on the business trip."

    "Won''t you show it to me then?"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "No, I''ll just keep you in suspense for now."

    Raelle stared at him, "What if I didn''t like it?"

    Shui Xian was stumped for a moment before he came over it, "So what? Once I give it to you, you''ll have to wear it."

    "Who said that?"

    "I said that!" Before Raelle could open her mouth to state her point of view, Shui Xian ced his finger on her lips saying, "I just said that. It''s final." Then he looked around and said, "How about we get a pair of wedding rings as well while we are at it?"

    "We already have wedding rings," reminded Raelle as she even lifted her hand to show him the ring she had never taken off since the time he had put it on her finger.

    Shui Xian was pleased to see that ring on her finger but he wasn''t that satisfied, "But at that time, I wasn''t thinking clearly. I only came to buy the rings out of responsibility. Isn''t it a shame that we didn''t design our wedding rings specifically?"

    "It''s not a shame at all," replied Raelle. "Either it''s this ring or another, it''s the same. In fact, don''t you think this ring is more special?"

    As she said that, Shui Xian recalled the moment he bought that ring for her. It was chosen by her, she was the one who tried it on as well. It was an unexpected meeting and it was one that brought the biggest surprise to his life. Now that he thought about it, it indeed was more special.

    He held her hand and interlocked their fingers. Bringing their intertwined hands up, he ced a kiss on her hand saying, "That''s true. This ring is indeed quite special in our rtionship." He took her to another counter, "Then let me buy you something else. How about earrings? Or that bracelet over there!"

    "I brought you out for shopping," reminded Raelle. "Why are you suddenly buying me things?"

    "There is no rule when ites to shopping," retorted Shui Xian. "We are allowed to go crazy when ites to shopping. Now, tell me which one you like."

    "Did you even see my jewelry collection?"

    Shui Xian gazed at her helplessly, "My dear waifu, there is no such thing as too little when ites to jewelry and clothes. Don''t overthink it. Let''s just buy."

    "Are you trying to y out the role of the overbearing CEO?" asked Raelle curiously. "You are eager to say. Buy this. Buy that. Buy everything."

    "Should I do it?" Shui Xian''s eyes sparkled. "Okay!" He pointed at a pair of earrings saying, "I''ll take that." Then at the bracelet, he liked earlier, "That one too.. This and that one as well."

 Chapter 422 - Pay

    Seeing Shui Xian going rampant with his sudden shopping spree, Raelle had no idea what to do for a moment. As she processed his willfulness, she held his arm to stop him, "That''s enough already."

    "I didn''t buy anything yet," said Shui Xian. "Do you wear anklet?" He bit his nail in a thoughtful manner before adding, "It''d look great on your gorgeous ankles." He nodded to himself as he imagined it and agreed with himself, "Definitely looking great."

    "Are you okay?"

    "Absolutely!"

    "Is it okay for you to be this excited over this?" questioned Raelle.

    "I''m buying for my wife,"mented Shui Xian. "Why shouldn''t I be excited?" He continued to point at different articles as he asked her, "How do you like this one?"

    Raelle shook off his hand and found herself a seat saying, "Don''t ask me."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and sighed out, "Fine, I''ll just choose myself."

    Raelle casually looked around and said to the shop attendant, "Let me see that jade ne."

    The shop attendant attentively took out the ne she pointed at with her gloved hands and carefully passed it to Raelle.

    "Is thisvender jade?" asked Raelle

    "Yes, Ma''am," answered the shop manager who came to attend to her on her own. Knowing Raelle''s identity, the shop manager was even more polite and attentive to Raelle than Shui Xian who was still picking different pieces of jewelry for his wife.

    Thevender jade ne that Raelle held wasn''t something made intricately or looked exquisite. It had a simple design but it gave off a very elegant feeling. It was crafted for a modern individual who sought sophistication in daily life with simplicity while keeping their affinity with their culture and antiquity.

    "This is aplete set," said the shop manager as she took the bracelet, ring, and earrings from the shop attendant and presented it to Raelle.

    "I''ll take it," said Raelle without even thinking twice. She took out her card to pay when Shui Xian noticed it and stopped her.

    "I''ll pay for it," he told her.

    "Why can''t I pay for it?"

    "I know you''re an independent person but I''m a fool. A fool who wants to spoil and pamper his wife. Would you allow me to do something?"

    "I''m not buying it for myself," said Raelle as she gazed at her foolish husband who was so eager to spend his money on her.

    "Huh?"

    "I''m buying it for Yue," answered Raelle. "Then tell me, why should I let you pay for it?"

    "What''s mine is yours," that was the only argument he could think of right now.

    "And what about what''s mine?" she asked in return.

    "That is also yours," he answered decisively.

    Raelle shook her head, "The other day, I read the same statement in a book and I certainly don''t like it. A woman has a right to her man''s money but a man has no right to hers? Aren''t we living in a society driver by gender equality? How is this gender equality when men are still getting the shorter end of the stick?"

    "Baby, do you know that your words can offend a lot of feminists?" Shui Xian felt helpless before her argument. He didn''t even know why she had been thinking about this. He didn''t think much about it.

    "Do I look like I care who I end up offending?" retorted Raelle and Shui Xian could only shake his head. Indeed, his wife was the fearless one. She never cared. "I''m merely stating a fact. Isn''t a rtionship built on giving and taking? Then why is it that your money is mine and mine is also mine? Isn''t that ruining the bnce of a rtionship?"

    Shui Xian thought about it for a moment and sighed out, "Then what do you want me to do? You''re spending money on me, I want to do the same."

    "I didn''t stop you," answered Raelle. "But this is something I''m buying for my family. It''s not your responsibility to pay for it. Even if you feel like it''s nothing."

    Shui Xian raised his hands in defense and stepped back, "Okay, your highness. You can do whatever you want."

    "That''s more like it," said Raelle. "This useless argument could have been avoided if you had taken a step back from the beginning."

    Shui Xian shook his head at her and smiled softly while he said to the shop attendant, "Pack the things I just picked."

    "Are you done?" inquired Raelle.

    "For now," answered Shui Xian. "I''ll get the chief designer to make a special luxury collection for my wife. One of its kind." He was feeling pleased with his own idea.

    Raelle couldn''t possibly understand his thought process but then again, Shui Xian also couldn''t understand her thought process either. It wasn''t really a big deal for him to pay for what caught her eyes, but she was really particr about it. He didn''t even understand why that was so. But he was willing to go along with her.

    If she wanted to pay for herself, he''d just let her be. Thest thing shecked in her life was money. In fact, he even once wondered that her assets seemed to be more than his own. That thought had made him work even more passionatelytely.

    "You seem to understand a lot about jewelry," stated Raelle. She had seen how Shui Xian had been questioning the attendant in detail about every single piece he had chosen for her.

    "When my mom was alive, I was always surrounded by her jewelry designs or unfinished pieces of jewelry or even a lot of rare gemstones. It''d be weirder if I didn''t pick up a thing or two."

    "Oh, so it''s your mother''s influence."

    "Parents always seem to have some influence on their children," hemented thoughtlessly but when he realized what he said, his head whipped to her side to observe her face. However, as always, he couldn''t find anything from her face.. It even looked like she didn''t even hear his casual remark.

 Chapter 423 - Iâ€™m Hungry

    "I''ll be resting at home today," said Xiang Hulin as he was descending the stairs.

    "General, are you feeling okay?" asked Adjutant Zhang to Xiang Hulin.

    Xiang Hulin waved his off saying, "It''s nothing. I''m just getting old now."

    As he walked towards the dining table, he was left frozen on his track for a moment at the sight before him. Right there sat his daughter gobbling up her food without a care in this world. She looked like she hadn''t eaten in over a decade or so.

    Just at this scene, he felt his headache worsening.

    "Good morning, darling!"

    Xiang Wai looked up from her bowl of dumplings, with her cheeks filled with dumplings making her look like a round bun. She gave him a greeting in return but because her mouth was filled, he hardly understood anything.

    "Daughter, just chew it first and then swallow it before speaking," said Xiang Hulin in a mild manner. He didn''t look mad at her at all. Rather, he seemed quite helpless as he sat down opposite her.

    Xiang Wai''s eyes moved to the empty head seat of the dining table before looking at her father who sat opposite her and shook her head lightly. In all her life, she had never seen her father taking the head seat. She knew that chair was empty for her grandfather but she really didn''t understand, why? It was obvious that her grandfather wasn''t gonna take that chair.

    As Xiang Wai swallowed, she took a sip of water.

    "When did youe?" asked Xiang Hulin.

    "Just an hour ago," answered Xiang Wai and even yawned on cue as if to indicate that she was tired after traveling for the night. Originally, she nned on taking a few days beforeing to see her father in Nanzhou but then after leaving her brotherst night, she couldn''t think of anything else to do. So, in the middle of the night, she took the flight toe over.

    Xiang Hulin''s brows knitted up, "Couldn''t wait for the daybreak?"

    "I thought my n might change once daybreak came around," answered Xiang Wai honestly. Then she looked at her empty bowl and rubbed her tummy, "I''m still hungry."

    "What do you want to eat?" asked Xiang Hulin.

    "Why?" asked Xiang Wai as she leaned ahead on the dining table. "Are you gonna make it for me?"

    Xiang Hulin smiled at her, "I will."

    "Scallion oil pancakes!" announced Xiang Wai with a wide grin on her face.

    "Anything else?" asked Xiang Hulin.

    "Tofu pudding."

    Xiang Hulin nodded his head and stood up immediately. He entered the kitchen while Xiang Wai continued to look at his back with a smile on her face. She couldn''t remember the time in her life when her father would have said ''no'' to her for something. No matter how unreasonable her demands would get, he''d never disagree with her.

    Maybe he really felt guilty for not being able to give her aplete family and turning her into aplete mess. Or maybe it was just his way of showing his love to her. After all, he had never been good at showing his love. So, he believed that if he gave her whatever she asked for, it''d be enough to show that he really loves her.

    "General, you can tell me what you want. I''ll make it for you," said the kitchendy hurriedly.

    Xiang Hulin stopped her, "It''s nothing. I''m seeing my daughter after months. The least I can do is to cook a simple breakfast for her."

    Xiang Wai had followed him inside and sat down on the high stool with her elbows perched on the counter. "Papa, are you taking a day off?"

    "Hmm..." Xiang Hulin hummed in response to her. "It''s Sunday. There is nothing special for me to do. So, I thought I should rest." He looked up at her with gentle eyes and added, "And now I''m d that I decided to rest at home. Or else, I wouldn''t be able to spend time with my daughter."

    Xiang Wai narrowed her eyes at her father, "Did Ge tell you that I''ming?"

    "Does Weimin know?" asked Xiang Hulin in surprise. He knew his son. Xiang Weimin would have told him if he knew that Xiang Wai wasing.

    "I told himst night," answered Xiang Wai as she read through her father''s mind easily. It seemed it was really a coincidence that he was staying home today. "In fact, I only told him that I''d being to visit you in a few days. I don''t think even he expected me to get up in the middle of the night to make this trip."

    "You should have told me beforeing."

    "Why? I can''te unannounced?"

    "It''s nothing like that. It''s your home. You cane whenever you want to," said Xiang Hulin. "I''m just thinking it''d be a shame if you came and didn''t get to see me at home."

    Xiang Wai nodded in agreement, "That''s true. That thought crossed my mind when I was boarding the ne. After all, it''s rare to find you at home. Most of the time, you''re busy with those old geezers."

    "Be respectful," Xiang Hulin chided her gently. "Those ''old geezers'' are all higher in rank than you." As he chopped the scallions, the sound of rhythmic ''tuk-tuk'' echoed in the kitchen. "I''m also a part of those old geezers, by the way. It''s not like I''m getting any younger."

    Xiang Wai mentally rolled her eyes at her father, "Papa, by old geezers, I meant those grumpy old men who only know how to make soldiers like us work to the bones with their unreasonable demands. Although you''re getting old, you aren''t that unreasonable or grumpy all the time."

    Xiang Hulin chuckled softly at her words, "I am ttered that my daughter isplimenting me.." His voice and expressions showed that he was genuinely happy by this ''so-called''pliment of hers which she even didn''t think was apliment.

 Chapter 424 - Your Daughter

    Seeing him genuinely happy, Xiang Wai was amused. It was just as her brother always said. It was too easy to make their father happy. Even the smallest of things would make him happy.

    He wasn''t a perfect father, he knew it himself and she knew it, as his daughter as well. But he wasn''tpletely hopeless either. He had been trying his best to be a good father. Once upon a time, he was also oblivious to the way around the kitchen. But today, his movements were skilled. All because he wanted to do everything to make her and her brother happy.

    "How long are you staying?" Xiang Hulin broke Xiang Wai''s daydreaming.

    "I don''t know," answered Xiang Wai honestly.

    Xiang Hulin only smiled in reply but didn''t say anything else. He could tell that she really didn''t know how long she was staying. In fact, her life had always been spontaneous. She did things willfully.

    One day she wanted to be a ballet dancer and the next day she came to tell him that she passed the test for the military academy. He didn''t even know what to do with her mood swings. For her, life was just like that.

    Oftentimes looking at her, Xiang Hulin was reminded of his dearest sister, Mu Chenyan. Back then, that woman also was just like that. She also had no goal or aim in life. For Mu Chenyan, life was just spending each day to the fullest. Oh, and wreaking havoc every day to make him clean up after her.

    For Xiang Wai, it wasn''t much different. She also had no goals in life. And she had also created a lot of trouble in her early years. The only difference was, Xiang Wai would only tell him about her own troubles after she''d have cleaned it all up. Actually, there was another difference.

    Mu Chenyan was a strong person. As for his daughter, Xiang Wai... Although she pretended to act strong, she wasn''t. She was just too good at putting up a front. But as her father, how could he not know that she was just an emotionally damaged child. She always let her emotions influence her thinking and her life in every way possible.

    "It actually doesn''t matter how long you''re staying," said Xiang Hulin. "I''m just happy to see you home. It''s not every day that my daughter would find time toe and see her old man."

    "Papa, don''t act like you don''t know that I got suspended," said Xiang Wai.

    Xiang Hulin paused for a moment and looked up at her, "I heard about it. But I promise I wasn''t trying to keep an eye on you. It''s just that someone mentioned it to me yesterday. But I didn''t try to dig deep into this matter."

    Xiang Wai suddenly felt a pang in her chest when she heard him speaking cautiously to her. Well, she couldn''t me him at all. When she first joined the Special Forces, she hadshed out at him that he was treating her like a baby and keeping a track of her actions. She was also the one who told him that she didn''t need his help and neither did she want him to pry into her matters.

    Since then Xiang Hulin had indeed stopped intentionally looking into her matters. But since he was a General and people knew that Xiang Wai was his daughter, it was inevitable that some people would tell him certain things. He couldn''t possibly do anything regarding that.

    "Then should I assume that you don''t know why I got suspended?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "I only heard that you offended someone you shouldn''t have," replied Xiang Hulin. It was as he had heard from people. Although he was really curious to know about this person whom his daughter offended, he had stopped himself from asking unnecessarily. "But I''ve been really curious to know about this person who even my daughter isn''t allowed to offend."

    Xiang Wai raised her brows at him as mischief twinkled in her eyes, "Your daughter."

    "Huh?" Xiang Hulin didn''t understand her meaning.

    "I said I''m not allowed to offend your daughter," borated Xiang Wai.

    Xiang Hulin was left stunned. He couldn''t even process it for a moment. He hesitated before questioning, "You mean... Yenay? Did you meet her?"

    Xiang Wai noticed theplicated emotions swirling in his eyes and answered, "I believe no one calls her Yenay. Her name is Raelle Xiang. But you have always called her Yenay so even I didn''t connect Raelle''s name with Yenay in my head at that time." She took a pause and added, "And in my defense, I did not offend her. I was just doing my job. Before this, no one ever had an issue with how I handled my missions. But this time, everyone had a problem."

    Xiang Hulin had a thoughtful look on his face and said, "I don''t think your sister is behind it though."

    "Papa, do you even know her?" asked Xiang Wai.

    Xiang Hulin''s face immediately fell and Xiang Wai bit her tongue, noticing how she just said something wrong. The biggest regret in Xiang Hulin''s life had to be this sister of hers whom they didn''t watch growing up. Her own feelings towards this sister of hers wereplicated but that didn''t mean she didn''t understand her father''s feelings.

    "I''m sorry, Papa!"

    Xiang Hulin shook his head and gave her aforting smile, "There is no need for that. You''re right. I really don''t know her at all. But I''ll look into this matter if you want me to." He ced the scallion pancakes in front of her, saying, "Enjoy this. I''m gonna work on your tofu pudding now."

    "Papa, I think this would be enough," stated Xiang Wai.

    "I don''t think so," disagreed Xiang Hulin. "Don''t worry about me. It''s easy to make tofu pudding. It''ll be ready in no time.." He wanted to touch her head but considering how he had oil on his hands, he put his hands back down.

 Chapter 425 - Unfortunate

    All through the process of making tofu pudding, Xiang Hulin looked at Xiang Wai intermittently and even opened his mouth as if to speak. But in the end, he just couldn''t bring himself to say anything. It wasn''t like Xiang Wai couldn''t see his dilemma and it was also not like she couldn''t tell what this dilemma was all about. But she wanted him to speak it out.

    She wanted him to ask her straightforwardly rather than keeping it all inside of him.

    "Papa, why don''t you just ask?"

    Xiang Hulin pressed his lips together and tried to straighten his thoughts. In the end, he could only ask, "How is she?"

    "She seemed fine to me," answered Xiang Wai.

    "How does she look like?" Even though he had heard from people how Raelle looked like, he still wanted to hear the answer from this daughter of his who never minced her words.

    "She..." Xiang Wai thought back before nodding her head to herself, "She is beautiful."

    "Beautiful?" repeated Xiang Hulin as he put the bowl of tofu pudding in front of her and sat beside her. "Even more beautiful than you?"

    Xiang Wai didn''t even think for a second before nodding her head, "Definitely more beautiful."

    Xiang Hulin was taken aback to hear such a response from Xiang Wai. It was kind of unexpected. At the end of the day, it was almost an impossible task to receive apliment from Xiang Wai of any kind whatsoever. She rarely had anypliments for people. That''s why he was so happy earlier when she actually said something good about him.

    Seeing the particr look in her father''s eyes, she sighed out, "Papa, why are you looking at me like that?" She took a brief pause to add, "In fact, she definitely looks like your daughter."

    Xiang Hulin''s brows knitted up, "What do you mean?"

    Xiang Wai looked closely at her father''s face and gave him a nod, "Yup! She definitely looks like your daughter." She took another bite of the tofu pudding before telling him, "Although Ge is the closest to you in looks, she isn''t that far behind. It isn''t obvious at first but she definitely has a subtle hint of resemnce with you and Ge. Especially, her eyes."

    "It seems you paid close attention to her,"mented Xiang Hulin.

    "I couldn''t help it," answered Xiang Wai. "She has a certain presence that demands attention. Even if you don''t want to pay her any attention, you wouldn''t be able to look away. That nk look in her eyes is particrly attractive and disturbing at the same time."

    "Disturbing?"

    Xiang Wai nodded her head, "Disturbing because her eyes were truly nk. Void of every single emotion. Hate, love, sadness, disgust, or even the feeling of being bored. There wasn''t even impatience. It almost felt like there was nothing in her eyes. And that nothingness was truly disturbing."

    Xiang Hulin sighed out heavily, "I''ve heard before that she doesn''t have the concept of emotions." He shook his head to shake off this heavy feeling taking deep root in his heart. "So, how did you recognize her?"

    "I didn''t," answered Xiang Wai. "She did." Xiang Hulin''s brow quirked up a little. "She recognized me instantly. It was my first time meeting her and it was the same for her as well. But I felt really weird when she seemed to know me and I didn''t know anything at all." She looked at her father and added, "Papa, you''ve always been regretful that your daughter doesn''t know you at all. But from my meeting, I have a feeling that she knows all about you."

    Xiang Hulin had a thoughtful look on his face as he pondered over her words. He had a lot on his mind right now and he didn''t know how to sort it out.

    "Continue eating," said Xiang Hulin. "And tell me if you need anything."

    "You should eat something yourself," said Xiang Wai. "Aren''t you tired of running around me?"

    "As I said earlier, it''s not every day that my daughter woulde home. It''s the least I can do for you." While Xiang Wai shook her head at him, he continued, "Oh, did you apany your brother yesterday to Zhai House?"

    "Yes," answered Xiang Wai. "I helped him pack his stuff in the hospital and brought him to the Zhai House. I even unpacked his stuff and made sure everything the room was ording to my brother''s preferences."

    "I told him that he should go over to stay at your mother''s ce to recuperate but he decisively refused."

    Xiang Wai lifted her head and looked straight into his eyes, "You actually suggested him, to go over to mom''s ce?" She snorted, "As if Ge would do that."

    "Well, I thought she''d be able to take care of Weimin better."

    Xiang Waiughed out, "Papa, did you forget why you two got the divorce? She is still the same woman she was. She still loves her research more than anything or anyone. Even if Ge went to her ce, he won''t even be seeing her shadow. I believe Uncle Zhai''s family can take better care of Ge."

    Xiang Hulin pulled her ear lightly, "Daughter, aren''t you very close to your mother? Howe you still have nothing good to say about her?"

    "That''s because she is my mother," replied Xiang Wai. "It''s because she is my mother that I am familiar with all her shorings. Just because I got used to how she is doesn''t mean everyone else will as well. I grew up with her. Ge can''t handle her attitude at all. I know my brother well." She took a deep breath and added, "Most of all, Ge won''t be willing to deal with mom''s other family. Before the end of the day, he might murder everyone there silently."

    "Your brother isn''t that bad."

    "I''m a loud troublemaker but Ge is more dangerous. He is like a silent killer. It''s not like you don''t know that."

    Xiang Hulin rubbed his forehead, "I don''t know if I''m blessed or unfortunate to have such amazing kids."

    "Definitely blessed!"mented Xiang Wai making himugh at her.

 Chapter 426 - Vanished

    "I say, my dear wife, I''m neither nearsighted nor farsighted. Why am I getting specs?" asked Shui Xian to his wife who was trying on different specs on him.

    "These sses don''t have the prescribed lenses," stated Raelle. "It''s just a fashion statement." She made him wear round sses and nodded her head.

    "I''d look like a nerd," grumbled Shui Xian.

    "Who said that?" asked Raelle. "These sses are perfect. With a cream-colored sweater, white pants and... We''ll let your hair down in a bit of a messy style. Definitely gives off a warm and homey vibe."

    "Wow! You even learned how to use words like warm and homey. I''m amazed."

    "Don''t overreact,"mented Raelle. "Let''s get this pair."

    Shui Xian shrugged his shoulders, "Whatever you say, mdy!"

    Raelle got it packed and passed it to her bodyguard to carry the shopping bag once again. By now, the four people walking behind her, all had small and big bags hanging from their arms. It was such a sight that even Shui Xian felt bad for them.

    "Wife, is it okay for you to treat them like this?"

    "How did I treat them?"

    "Like your babysitters."

    "But that''s what they are," said Raelle straightforwardly catching Shui Xian off guard.

    "Excuse me, what?"

    Raelle nodded her head at him, "When the first time Yanyan brought them to me, she said they are my team of babysitters."

    Shui Xianughed helplessly, "Yanyan really knows what to say." He looked back at the four of them and said to Raelle, "By the way, that Hailey and Caleb don''t look that old to me. Are you sure they are capable?"

    "All of them are the top of the top that Yanyan hand-picked for me," told Raelle. "After myst kidnapping, she ended the contract with the bodyguardpany and decided to take matters into her own hands. That''s when she first picked a mercenary to be my bodyguard or aka babysitter. That was Anna. The very first one to join me when I was only 12." She took a brief pause and added, "Hailey is the youngest of them and she joined us thest as well. I was 14 and she was 19 at that time when we first met."

    "That means she''s around my age?"

    "Yes," answered Raelle. "But don''t ever take her lightly. She is an orphan who grew up in a mercenary organization. She has seen more blood in her life than you ever will. She only looks like a normal person but she isn''t. Then again, anyone who has stayed in that kind of a dark world, couldn''t possibly be considered normal."

    "Then howe Yanyan chose such dangerous people to be around you?"

    "Because I don''t fit in the definition of normal either," answered Raelle. "Also, these dangerous people can''t really hurt me. I''m not that little helpless child anymore." She looked back at the people following her and said, "Hailey, why don''t you guys drop off these bags in the car?"

    Hailey looked at Raelle with a sweet smile on her face. There was actually nothing sweet about her or her smile and Raelle could tell that as well. "We can''t leave you here on your own." She turned to the other two and stated, "The three of you take the bags. I''ll stay around."

    Raelle turned back to Shui Xian and asked, "What do you want to do now?"

    "Let''s get some ice cream?" suggested Shui Xian.

    "Is that necessary?" she questioned. Hyson also wanted ice cream after shopping and here was her husband. Didn''t the study say that men don''t particrly like sweet things like ice cream? Why did shee across men who liked sweet things so much?

    "Of course," said Shui Xian. "After walking so much, don''t you feel tired? It''s because the blood sugar level is getting low. We need to get recharged first."

    "I don''t feel tired though," Raelle pointed out.

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched and he pinched her cheeks saying, "Right, you don''t feel anything." He pecked her lips and added, "But wife, have mercy on your husband. I am only human. I do feel tired and I am craving something sweet."

    "Don''t phrase it like that. Like I banned you from getting ice cream," said Raelle. "You can have it if you want."

    Shui Xian chuckled at her reaction. Pulling her along, he said, "Thene and choose a vor for me."

    "Do I have to?" asked Raelle. "Can''t you just eat the one you like most?"

    "The thing is, I don''t dislike any vor at all."

    "You even like mint chocte vor?"

    "Yup!" answered Shui Xian. "Don''t you?"

    "Hyson doesn''t like it," told Raelle. "He says it tastes like toothpaste."

    "He has no taste,"mented Shui Xian.

    "I think he has pretty good taste," said Raelle.

    "Oh?"

    "He chose me as his best friend," stated Raelle. "Isn''t it enough to prove his impable taste?"

    Shui Xian pursed his lips but in the end, he burst outughing at her words. He clutched his stomach andughed out loud. It was amusing to see his wife boasting herself indirectly. But he couldn''t even argue with her. There was nothing to disagree with there.

    With his attractive looks and his beautifulugh, Shui Xian was definitely getting some unnecessary attention from people around them. Adding on the fact that he stood beside an equally beautiful woman, the effect was far better.

    And because of this unnecessary attention, he caught the eye of someone familiar in the crowd who was stupefied to see Shui Xian there. But even more so, because of hisughter that seemed to havee straight from his heart. This familiar person was so stunned that he didn''t know how to react for a moment.

    But taking a moment, he still stepped over and called out, "Xian, are you okay?"

    Shui Xian paused and turned his head to follow this familiar voice.. As he looked at the owner of that familiar voice, his smiled immediately vanished.

 Chapter 427 - Window Shopping

    Cui Xukun had been driving aimlessly as per Cloe''s instructions when she suddenly asked him to stop.

    "What''s up?"

    Cloe pointed towards the shopping mall and said, "Let''s go and watch a movie."

    Cui Xukun nced at her and then at the shopping mall, "You want to go to the mall to watch a movie?"

    Cloe shrugged her shoulders, "It''s not like we have any better n than this one right now." She took a brief pause and exined, "There is nothing wrong with a movie. And there is no point in going anywhere else to watch a movie when we are already here."

    Cui Xukun couldn''t possibly bring himself to refute so he nodded his head, "Okay, let''s do that. Let me find a parking space."

    "Alright!"

    Cloe''s only n for today was being random. She decided to go out on a date randomly and now, she randomly decided to watch a movie. She had gone to a movie premiere with him before and she actually had a good time. So, she felt like they could watch a movie again.

    Going straight to the cinema, Cloe looked at the list of movies being shown.

    "Which one do you want to watch?" asked Cui Xukun. "I''ll buy the tickets."

    There was a horror movie, an action-adventure movie, an animated movie, a crime mystery, and a romanticedy. And even after browsing through all, she still ended up picking the romanticedy. She couldn''t help it. She had always been a fan of this genre. It wasn''t her fault. Although ording toizens, the crime mystery had the highest rating, her heart was biased towards a romanticedy.

    "I wanna watch that," she pointed at the poster of the movie she wanted to watch.

    "Okay," answered Cui Xukun went to get the tickets.

    "I''ll buy popcorn for us," said Cloe.

    "Wait!" Cui Xukun stopped her.

    "Don''t say you''re gonna pay for it," warned Cloe with a serious face.

    Cui Xukun waved his hands to show that he didn''t mean that. Instead, he said, "I just wanted to tell you that there is still over an hour till the next screening. So, buying popcorn now is not good."

    "Ohh..." Cloe responded in understanding.

    When he got the tickets, he got back to her and asked, "So what now?"

    "What now?" repeated Cloe as she raised her brows at him.

    Cui Xukun found her expression to be really adorable at the moment and he really wished to pinch her cheeks. In fact, his disobedient hand hade up tomit a crime but he noticed it on time and put his hand back down pretending as nothing happened. However, this small moment hadn''t escaped Cloe''s eyes who had her eyes everywhere.

    The observation was one of the skills she learned from Raelle. As her Chief always said, in silence, you can see what others can''t. So, it had be a reflex for her to pay attention to everything around her. She paid attention to the smallest of details that others might even overlook.

    "How about we look around?" suggested Cui Xukun. "I mean we can shop here."

    Cloe nodded her head, "That''s a good idea. We can do window shopping."

    "Window shopping?" repeated Cui Xukun uncertainly. "You don''t wanna buy anything?"

    Cloe shook her head in reply, "Window shopping is more fun." Of course, she wasn''t gonna tell him that she was way too economical in her personal life. She hardly spent money on her own self. That''s why she always felt disdaining from Raelle towards her. But she couldn''t do anything about it. It had also be a habit for her to send more than half of her sry to her parents.

    Although she was a western, she actually had a lot of personal qualities like Asian kids. She believed she owed her parents everything for raising her and bringing her into this world. That is why even when she felt tired and disheartened by them, she still went along with their demands. She knew that she was being used by her own family but she was happy with the fact that she was atst useful.

    So, shopping was a luxury she wouldn''t allow herself to delve into. If the thing wasn''t really needed, she''ll never buy it. And even while buying the smallest of things, she''d ask herself thrice, ''Do I really need it?'' And only then she''d buy it.

    She did exactly what she said, she only walked around window shopping. There was a ck dress in the disy window that really made her want to buy it but she held herself back from being willful. Cui Xukun, feeling her internal struggle asked, "Do you like it?"

    "It''s alright," she answered in a nd voice.

    "Then... Will it be okay if I buy it as a gift for you?"

    Cloe red at him, "No! I don''t want it from you. If I really need it, I''ll just buy it myself."

    "Do you have to be so particr about it?" asked Cui Xukun. "Earlier, you did the same thing."

    Cloe sighed out, "I must have sounded like a jerk but I can''t help it. My Chief says a rtionship should never be based on benefits. That makes it seem cheap. Also, we call ourselves independent women, then why do we need men to buy things for us?"

    "You Chief sounds like a..." Cui Xukun couldn''t find the right word to describe it.

    Cloe shook her head at him, "You can choose all the wrong words to describe her but she is the only right person I have met in my life. And I don''t regret it even a little bit." She held his wrist and dragged him over, "Come, let''s get some ice cream."

    Cui Xukun looked at her delicate fingers wrapped around his wrist and looked up at her. And then he forgot all about the world as a goofy smile made its way to his lips.. Just this small gesture was making him feel giddy inside.

 Chapter 428 - Pretend To Be Happy

    It was when he hade to buy ice cream when he noticed Shui Xian''s presence. And not just his presence. What caught his eye was Shui Xian''s heartyugh. He could see that thatughter wasing from his heart.

    He couldn''t stop himself from moving over to Shui Xian''s side and asking him whether he was okay?

    Shui Xian''s response was also just as he had expected, "Still doing better than you."

    Cui Xukun''s lips twitched at his reply. "I was just worried seeing youughing like a fool. But it seems I was wasting my worry on a jerk."

    Shui Xian snorted, "Who asked you to be concerned about me? Even if I really lose my mind, you''d still be thest person whose concern would be needed!"

    "Have you been eating bitter gourds all these years?" asked Cui Xukun. "Why is it that everything thates out of your mouth sounds so bitter?"

    "Oh, you didn''t know?" Shui Xian pretended to be shocked. "But then again, how would you know what I liked to eat? You ran away!"

    Cui Xukun''s lips parted but nothing came out in the end.

    Raelle was still standing behind Shui Xian. Most of her body was actually hidden behind his broad shoulders. But that didn''t mean she couldn''t see or hear this strange interaction between her husband and the stranger who came out of nowhere.

    And from her analysis, she could bet that her husband was really feeling bitter when he looked at this stranger. As if there was a suppressed fire of anger within him that he had been holding back. On the other hand, this stranger appeared to be feeling guilty. The movement of his eyes, his facial expressions, and even all of his body told her that he was remorseful.

    Interesting realization. She thought to herself but didn''t try to be a part of their conversation. She didn''t feel the need to add herself into this anyway. This had nothing to do with her. So, she just decided to silently support her man by standing behind him. As a gesture to let him that she was right there for him.

    "Why are you here?" inquired Shui Xian in frustration.

    "I just saw you and came over," answered Cui Xukun. "There was no other meaning behind it."

    Shui Xian rolled his eyes at him, "You should start acting like we don''t know each other. Even if you see me on the road, just walk away. There is no need toe over and say hi."

    "Do you hate me this much?" Cui Xukun couldn''t help asking.

    "No, I just don''t want to see your face and ruin my mood," said Shui Xian.

    "I really don''t know why I felt so happy in my heart seeing youughing," said Cui Xukun. "It''s my mistake to even care for a heartless man like you."

    "Why do you sound like an aggrieved girlfriendining to her boyfriend?" came a chirpy voice from behind Cui Xukun. As he looked back, he found Cloe walking up to him. Passing him the ice cream, she added, "I got you the ice cream but you vanished when I turned around. What are you even up...?" Her words were lost instantly when her eyes settled on Shui Xian''s figure. Immediately, her eyes lit up, "Master Xian! What a pleasant surprise!"

    "Hi, Cloe!" Shui Xian''s ugly expressions vanished and a polite smile formed on his lips as soon as he turned to talk to Cloe and even waved at her good-naturedly.

    Cui Xukun was left gaping at his ex-best friend''s change. Just seconds ago, he was scowling at him and now, he was grinning at his girlfriend. Wow! That just reminded him, he had actually thought that there was something between Shui Xian and Cloe. With this thoughting to his mind, he became vignt towards Shui Xian and looked at him as if Shui Xian was trying to steal his girlfriend.

    Shui Xian only gave him a nce that clearly looked like he was looking at an idiot.

    "You''re looking pretty today,"mented Shui Xian to Cloe intentionally which made Cui Xukun grit his teeth in anger.

    Being the little fangirl, Cloe smiled widely at him, feeling a bit shy because of thispliment, "What are you saying, Master Xian?"

    "You can just call me Xian. What''s with being so formal about it?"

    "Well, you looked handsome as well," stated Cloe in response. "These clothes are giving you a whole different feel."

    Shui Xian looked down at himself, "How can I not look good when my wife picked this outfit for me today?"

    "Ah! No wonder, you look like a changed person," said Cloe. "It''s just as Chief says, clothes might to be able to make a person but clothes can definitely decide how people will look at you."

    "That''s something only my wife would say," said Shui Xian with a wide grin. "And currently, she is oddly quiet." He turned his head around and looked at Raelle who was already looking at him. "Baby, why are you so quiet?"

    "I didn''t think I should intrude," replied Raelle.

    "Chief!" called out Cloe in surprise. She didn''t even know why she was this surprised. After all, she had already met Shui Xian here. And since he was here, there was a high possibility that Raelle would be here as well. Then howe she didn''t instantly think of that?

    She''d like to me that on Shui Xian. This Master Xian was always a cold person who rarely even smiled. But currently, he met her with a big smile and seemed so approachable that she was feeling lightheaded. That''s how unbelievable it was for her.

    "At least pretend like you''re as happy to see me as you are to see my husband," said Raelle.

    Cloe lowered her face and said, "Sorry."

    While Shui Xian pursed his lips to hide hisughter. His wife was at it again.. Reading people out like they were an open book before her.

 Chapter 429 - Revolutionary Experience

    "I don''t think there is anything to say sorry for," said Raelle. "I think I also feel happy looking at my husband. So, I can''t me you."

    "Chief, it''s good to see you here," said Cloe with an awkward smile.

    "You don''t have to lie to my face like this," was Raelle''s response. "As I always say, I also don''t feel particrly good about seeing you outside of work."

    "Wow! As always, you have the right words,"mented Cloe sourly.

    Raelle looked at Cloe and asked, "Are you done saying hi?"

    "I am," replied Cloe a bit uncertainly.

    Raelle nodded, "Then go along. This is my limit of bearing you outside of work."

    "Chief!" Cloe''s voice sounded like she was whining right now.

    "I have a name, do I have to keep reminding you that?" retorted Raelle. "Why am I keeping you around if you can''t even remember my name?"

    Shui Xian put his hand above Raelle''s head and said, "Wifey, go easy on her." And because he intervened, Cloe was able to breathe. "What are you doing here, Cloe?"

    "I''m on a date," said Cloe.

    Shui Xian looked at Cui Xukun who had been standing beside Cloe all this while and had his eyes stuck on Raelle as if he was looking at something alien. No, he didn''t seem scared. Rather, he looked oddly curious right now and Shui Xian so wanted to smack that look off of his face right now. Was his wife someone anyone could afford to be curious about?

    "So, the stranger who managed to make my husband turn bitter is actually your date?" asked Raelle as her eyes moved from Cloe to Cui Xukun. "You''re really talented." This statement was directed towards Cui Xukun who was taken aback.

    Cloe looked at Cui Xukun, "You know each other?"

    "Yes."

    "No."

    Of course, that yes came from Cui Xukun and the no was from Shui Xian.

    "Do you have to even deny it?" questioned Cui Xukun as he red at Shui Xian.

    "It''s up to me," replied Shui Xian.

    "And I deduce from this that there is some history," said Cloe as she nodded to herself.

    Cui Xukun looked at her and then his eyes moved back to Raelle''s face as he asked Shui Xian, "She... is your wife?"

    Shui Xian hugged Raelle''s waist from the side and jutted out his chin, "This gorgeousdy is definitely mine."

    Cui Xukun''s lips twitched at his reply. Why did he feel like Shui Xian was being too protective of his wife? Also, what''s up with that silly look on his face? Howe even Cui Xukun couldn''t recognize this type of Shui Xian?

    "Why do I feel like you''re showing off?" asked Cloe.

    "I am," replied Shui Xian. "And I have the right to do so. Don''t you think so?"

    Cloe looked at Shui Xian''s raised brow as if challenging her to say otherwise but how could she? "Have I told you that your wife is my girl crush? If I didn''t know she is straighter than the straight line ever drawn, I''d have really hit on her."

    Shui Xian narrowed her eyes at her, "I should stay wary of you."

    "My fantasy has already been broken since you married her," Cloe pointed out.

    "I still don''t trust you," said Shui Xian as he looked at her warily.

    "Let''s go," said Raelle. "We should not disturb other people''s dates."

    "Then we should continue with ours," was Shui Xian''s reply.

    "We are on a date?" asked Raelle.

    "Did you just notice?"

    Cloeughed at them, "Who would have known the ice couple actually is this cute together?"

    "What did you say?"

    Cloe smiled innocently at Raelle, "Nothing." She tugged at Cui Xukun''s arm, "We should leave. It''s about time for the movie." She waved at Raelle and Shui Xian, "Bye, Chief and Master Xian. Have fun!"

    Seeing them leaving, Shui Xian frowned, "Why is she dating him of all people?"

    "Don''t like him?" asked Raelle.

    "I don''t know," answered Shui Xian. "But I certainly don''t feel like seeing him around."

    "It seems you''re upset with him," Raelle pointed out. "That''s interesting."

    Shui Xian nced at his wife, "Wifey, stop trying to read me like a book."

    "Okay."

    "Let''s go," said Shui Xian.

    "Where?"

    "We also have a movie to catch," replied Shui Xian.

    "Huh?"

    "I booked movie tickets for us online before we came here," Shui Xian told her. "I thought we have never seen a movie together. And we should do it."

    "We can do it," replied Raelle. "Which movie are we watching though?"

    "Oh, it''s a romanticedy," answered Shui Xian.

    Raelle stopped to look at him, "Hubby, what did you say?"

    "Don''t look at me like that," said Shui Xian. "You said you don''t have a favorite genre. So, I just chose the one I wanted to see."

    "You wanted to see a romanticedy?"

    "Yeah," answered Shui Xian. "I think this will be a revolutionary experience."

    "Why don''t you just say that you want to be the first person to watch a romantic movie with me?"

    Shui Xian bit his lip as she read through him again. He really had the same thought in his mind since he knew that Hyson had gone to watch horror movies with her. And these two best friends have also watched the action, adventure, mystery and all sorts of dark movies together at home even. So, he could only pick a romantic movie.

    Because, at the end of the day, neither Raelle nor Hyson was interested in this genre and they both had never tried it either. He had to be the first one to bring her to watch a romantic movie. Then it''d be their thing.

    That sounded so childish even in his head so considering how she knew all his thoughts, he suddenly felt a little embarrassed. But he willed himself to get over it.. She is his other half, there is no such thing as embarrassment between husband and wife.

 Chapter 430 - Jealous

    Seeing how Cui Xukun turned quiet after meeting Shui Xian, Cloe''s brows quirked up thoughtfully. In fact, he was actually really chatty with Shui Xian, it was only after seeing Raelle that he turned quiet. The corner of Cloe''s lips curled up slightly at this thought. She couldn''t really me him for that though.

    "Are you stunned speechless by Raelle Xiang''s beauty?" Cloe joked with Cui Xukun as they were entering the cinema to watch the movie.

    Cui Xukun looked at her and said, "This was my first time seeing her in person." He paused to look at her face before saying, "I have to say she is a beauty. But she looks like an aggressive beauty."

    "Aggressive?" repeated Cloe curiously. "My Chief is definitely not a delicate beauty. But she isn''t aggressive either. She is the calmest person you''d ever meet in your life. However, she doese off as an aggressive person because of her nk face."

    "By aggressive beauty, I meant that her looks are the first thing that catches anyone''s attention. That''s how striking she looks," said Cui Xukun. "I''m not trying to praise another woman before you. Trust me, she isn''t even my type. I like you more."

    Cloe chuckled to herself, "So, I''m your type?"

    Cui Xukun nodded his head without any hesitation, "You''re definitely tailor-made for me."

    "Don''t get ahead of yourself,"mented Cloe.

    "Sorry!"

    "Something seems off between you and Mr. Shui," stated Cloe as they found their seats and sat down. "Are you guys having a fight?" She took a pause to add, "I''m not trying to pry into your personal matters here. I''m just a bit curious to know what did you do to tick off someone like Master Xian."

    "You think it''s difficult to tick off Xian?" questioned Cui Xukun. "Although he had always been a jolly person, it had been quite easy to get on his nerves. After all, he had always been a sensitive person." He took a sip of his coke and told her, "But I did hear that he had changed in these years. He had be a lot calmer but a lot more dangerous as well."

    "That''s true," answered Cloe. "They say he nevershes out his employees. Even if he is mad, he''d make them work to the bones silently instead of ruthlessly scolding them."

    "I feel like he is a different person," said Cui Xukun. "He doesn''t seem like the Xian I was familiar with. But today, when I saw himughing, for a moment I actually thought that he was still the same Xian I knew who loved tough all the time." Heughed to himself softly as he went on, "He was the person whoseughter always came from his heart. He was too real and always wore his feelings on his sleeves. He loved acting all cool and charming but in reality, he was just a silly boy with a golden heart."

    Cloe munched on the popcorn as shemented, "People change." She sighed to herself, "However, I really can''t imagine the Shui Xian you''re talking about. Although I have only met him a couple of times, I have apletely different understanding of him." She nced at the side of his face, "Maybe you should stop looking at him from the eyes of the past. Don''t try to find the past him. You just have to ept the present him."

    "But I''m afraid that if I forgot the past him, we would never be able to go back to being friends," said Cui Xukun."

    "I don''t know what''s wrong between you two," started Cloe. "But I can tell you that you can never go back to being what you guys were. That''s an impossible dream to have. Don''t have such wishful thinking. Shui Xian isn''t what he was. And ask yourself, are you what you were back then?"

    Cui Xukun stayed quiet in response. Deep down he also knew that she was right. There really was no way to go back to how they were. He understood that truth. However, he still wanted to take a chance. Even if there was a small chance that they could be friends again, he wanted to take that chance.

    "Do you know that your words really hurt?"

    Cloe smiled at him, "I know. I learned it from the best."

    "By that ''best'' you meant Raelle Xiang?"

    Cloe nodded her head, "Yup! There is no one else I know whose words could hurt as much as hers."

    "And yet you called her your girl crush," hemented sourly.

    Cloe chuckled at that, "Are you jealous?"

    "Maybe..."

    "Well, it''s okay. You won''t be the first one to be jealous of Raelle Xiang. She attracts too much attention and too much jealousy as well," said Cloe.

    "I actually thought that Xian married on impulse," said Cui Xukun honestly. "Because when I learned from you that his wife is Raelle Xiang, I really couldn''t imagine him with her. However, today, my who perspective changed."

    "They are perfect together," said Cloe. "And Shui Xian loves Raelle a lot."

    Cui Xukun could only nod in reply, "He really does. I could see it." He sighed out, "The way he looked at her made his feelings very clear."

    "But you''re still not able to picture them as a couple?" Cui Xukun was surprised when she read through his thoughts. "I believe since you have known Shui Xian for years, it means you''re there when he was together with his first wife." Cui Xukun''s eyes widened as she went on, "And since you always saw him with his first wife, seeing him with Raelle made you finally realize that things have really changed."

    He rubbed his arms as he shivered, "I literally just got chills. Why are you looking through my mind?"

    Cloe rolled her eyes at his reaction and looked at the entrance. Her brows went up when she saw Shui Xian and Raelle entering. She could not believe her eyes for a moment. Her Chief was actuallying to see a romantic movie? Even if it had aedic undertone, it was still a romantic movie in the end!

    She suddenly had to remind herself of the same words she said to Cui Xukun earlier that people change.. It couldn''t be helped.

 Chapter 431 - Happy Endings

    Stephen King once wrote: "Books and movies are like apples and oranges. Both are fruit, but tastepletely different."

    Raelle understood this truth very well. Because even with her level of active imagination, some movies were able to capture her attention. If she had watched horror movies, she had read horror books as well. And they both always gave off a different vibe.

    However, at the end of the day, neither a book nor a movie was enough to enthrall her or pull her into their own world. She was always like an uninterested bystander. It had nothing to do with the skills of an author or the actors who yed the roles in the movie. She just could never bring herself to put herself in the shoes of the characters she read or watched.

    But as she nced at her husband, she realized that he definitely wasn''t like her. Just a moment ago, he wasughing hysterically and now, he was crying silently. For a moment, she even wanted to ask him if he was alright. She looked at the scene ying on the screen before looking back at him. She honestly couldn''t understand what was worth crying over exactly?

    "Don''t look at me like that," said Shui Xian to Raelle as they walked out of the cinema.

    "I feel like I got to know something new about you today," stated Raelle honestly.

    "Oh, let me hear about it," said Shui Xian as he pulled her into a cafe for a coffee.

    "You get emotionally invested with fictional characters," answered Raelle.

    Shui Xian pressed lips together, "I can''t deny that. I do get emotionally invested to the point that after reading a certain book, I feltpletely empty for the next whole month."

    "Hubby, before watching a movie, you always check the tags?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head and frowned, "How do you know that?"

    "Because from what I can see, it seems you avoid tragedy tag," said Raelle matter-of-factly. "You don''t like sad endings." She wasn''t asking him, she was telling him that.

    Shui Xian chuckled gently, "Baby, your senses are too keen and dangerous." He didn''t deny her words but said, "But you''re right. I don''t like sad endings. I believe one tragedy in my life was enough."

    "Tragedy?" repeated Raelle. "Are you referring to your first marriage?"

    Shui Xian looked up at her and nodded his head, "Wasn''t it a tragedy? I heard somewhere that if the two people who really loved each other can''t make a rtionship work, that really is a tragedy." Raelle''s lips parted as if she wanted to say something and Shui Xian interrupted her with, "I believe you won''t agree with me on this. After all, to you, a rtionship should not be solely based on love."

    "I won''tment on your rtionship but I willment on your wish for happy endings," started Raelle. "Don''t you think it''s unrealistic to wish for happy endings? You''re calling it the end, how can you call the end ''happy''?"

    "It''s not like I''m running after happy endings in my life," said Shui Xian. "But I''d still want to invest my feelings in a movie or book that has a happy ending for the peace of my mind."

    "You mean it''s just an escape?"

    Shui Xian smiled at her, "Why do you think people enjoy novels or movies? Aren''t we all looking for an escape from reality? We want to get lost in the world created by the author and forget about the world we are living in." He ced his hand on hers as he went on, "But I believe you don''t understand that. You have never found yourself in such a situation." He held her hand up and kissed the back of her hand as he added, "I won''tment on anything else but you have made me realize that what I really needed in my life wasn''t a happy ending. It was the new beginning that I got with you."

    "So, do you believe we can be together forever?"

    "If it''s you, I''m willing to at least believe that we can be together forever. The least we can do is believe, you know."

    "Why do I think that you''re looking at me like I''m your happy ending?"

    Shui Xian''s smile widened, "I certainly want it to be that way." His fingers rubbed her hand as he asked, "Do you want to know why?"

    "Why?"

    "Because you''re like the story who has no ending. Either it''s happy or sad. It''s nothing to you. And since you''ve left so much nkness in your story, I can fill those nks however I want to. Either with happiness or sadness, it all seems up to me. And for the first time, I am the one in control. I like this feeling."

    "Do you know I can''t understand your words?"

    Shui Xianughed out, "There are certain things you say which I can''t understand as well. But it doesn''t really bother me." He stared at her saying, "It allows me to interpret your words however I want to."

    "But I don''t like interpreting things the way I want," said Raelle. "I want to understand your words."

    Shui Xian tucked a strand of loose hair behind her ear, "You should rest once in a while. It''s okay to not understand everything in life. Don''t be so hard on yourself all the time."

    "My psychiatrist had told me for years to try to understand people and cater to their needs. And you''re telling me to stop trying to understand everything? Who should I listen to?"

    "I don''t know about the world but I''d never ask you to force yourself to understand anything about me. It''s okay to not understand some things. We are only human. There is only so much we can do." His thumb rubbed against her cheek as he added, "And you have already been doing your best for years.. Even I feel tired, for you now."

 Chapter 432 - Experiment

    Maybe there were some people who wanted Raelle to understand them but Shui Xian really didn''t have that kind of a wish anymore. He could see that she was doing her best. And in a way, he also felt that she was putting more effort into their marriage than he did. He didn''t even know why he had this thought though.

    His heart hurt just thinking about how Raelle had been trying hard to understand things in life. The feelings that came to people naturally, she had to put a lot of effort to even understand it all. He really felt tired, for her. And yet she had neverined even once. For years, she had silently been studying humans and their feelings. She''d been absorbing all the information she could without asking why she had to do it.

    She stood at the pinnacle in her life where even if she didn''t give a fuck about anything, it won''t even create a ripple in her life. However, she was still willing to put in enough effort for the people she cared about. The people who fell under the category of the family to her. The people who never asked her to change are the ones for whom she had been trying to fit in.

    "You don''t have to think so much about me," said Raelle, pulling him out of his thoughts. She ced her hand on his which was against her cheek as she went on, "I don''t think there is anything wrong with trying to understand my own husband. I have to understand you to make this rtionship work. Just like you''ve been trying to understand me as well even though I am aplicated person."

    Shui Xian''s eyes softened and so did his smile as he told her, "Sweetheart, you''re notplicated."

    "I am not?"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "When we first met, I might have thought that you''re difficult to understand but now, I don''t think so. You''re really simple. If you say this is a straight line, I just have to believe that it''s a straight line and there is no story behind those words. What I mean is, I just have to take your words as they are. And that''s how easy it is to understand you."

    "You really make it sound easy,"mented Raelle. "However, to get a whole new understanding of you, I''ve decided toe out to watch a movie with you every weekend."

    "Huh?"

    "We''ll give every genre a try," added Raelle.

    "Really?" questioned Shui Xian, feeling a little uncertain.

    "Yes," answered Raelle. "Every movie has its own theme and must bring out a different you. I have to watch it all."

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched a little, "Baby, are you conducting an experiment again?"

    "Yes," nodded Raelle.

    "And I am the test subject again?" he asked another question.

    "Yes," was her answer once again.

    Shui Xian almost rolled his eyes at her but stopped himself in time, "What if I refuse to be the test subject? You can''t conduct an experiment on me without my consent."

    "And why would you refuse?" she asked. "One should always work for a good cause."

    "Good cause?" repeated Shui Xian. "What exactly is the good cause here?"

    Raelle straightened her shoulders, "Helping your wife."

    Shui Xian burst outughing, "I never thought I''d hear something like this from you."

    "I never thought I''d ever say something like this either," was Raelle''s response.

    Shui Xian stopped himself fromughing even further and said, "But I still refuse to be a part of this experiment."

    "Give me one reason why?"

    Shui Xian crossed his arms against his chest as he said, "You still haven''t told me the result of that kissing experiment. How can I jump into another experiment when I don''t even know how thest one ended?"

    Raelle nodded at him, "You''re right. But what if I say that that experiment has still note to an end?"

    "It hasn''t?"

    "No," replied Raelle. "I still don''t think that kisses are sweet. Unless you''ve eaten something sweet before the kiss. A kiss in itself has no vor." Shui Xian seemed to be listening attentively to her with his lips curled up in amusement. She really took it seriously, eh? "However, I have an initial conclusion after all these months."

    "Oh? I wonder what that is?" Shui Xian''s brows quirked up inquisitively. He was curious to know what conclusion she hade to. After all, his wife never failed to surprise and amuse him with her words. And that''s why he was always eager to listen to her more.

    "The initial conclusion is that I seemed to like kissing," she said straightforwardly and Shui Xian pursed his lips to hold himself fromughing again. See? She said that with such a nk face! How could he not find her cute? "But the question remains whether I like kissing you or it''d be the same with anyone else."

    Shui Xian almost fell down his chair when he heard that, "Wife, how can you think about kissing others?"

    "I haven''t finished yet," stated Raelle. "What I mean is that even though I can''t tell whether the kiss is the same with anyone else, I can''t possibly try that out now. I''m married. But I don''t think there is anything wrong with that. As long as I like kissing my husband, isn''t that enough?"

    "And if you didn''t like kissing me?" Shui Xian didn''t even know why he was asking this stupid question but he had already blurted it out and it couldn''t be salvaged now.

    "Then it''d have been a problem," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian''s face fell. He looked like a lost puppy all of a sudden.

    "I''m just teasing you." Raelle touched his fluffy hair saying, "Hyson says teasing is fun. But if it makes you look like this, I think I''ll stick with not teasing you at all."

    Shui Xian lifted his eyes to look at her and asked, "It was really just a joke?"

    "Of course," she answered. "At the end of the day, I still like my most handsome husband more."

    "I should not forget that you''re a visual creature," said Shui Xian.. He touched his face and added, "I should take better care of this face you seem to like so much."

 Chapter 433 - Loving & Forgiving

    >>Secret Chats<<

    <<Lin Zhen invited you to a group chat with Huang Shuyi, Fang Yiwen>>

    Pei Zi Hong looked at the new notification he received from the WeChat and his brows furrowed up in confusion. Didn''t they already have a group chat? Why was Lin Zhen creating a new one? And what''s with the group name? "Secret Chats?" What kind of secret chats are they gonna have in this new group?

    Before he could type his confusion into words, a message popped up.

    Fang Yiwen: [What''s with this group chat?]

    Fang Yiwen: [Zhen Ge, are you forgetting that we have a group chat already?]

    Pei Zi Hong: [That''s what I was wondering. Why are we in this new group?]

    Huang Shuyi: [You both are idiots!]

    Fang Yiwen: [Shuyi, be nice! We are all friends here.]

    Huang Shuyi: [Who said we are friends? It''s purely business for me.]

    Pei Zi Hong: [Shuyi, that hurts. We have been together for years and yet, it''s purely business for you? That''s truly hurtful!]

    Huang Shuyi: [I just don''t feel like epting you duffers as my friends.]

    Huang Shuyi: [Can''t you notice that Zhen Ge didn''t add Yue Fai into this group? Isn''t it obvious from this point why this group chat is created?]

    Both Fang Yiwen and Pei Zi Hong only then noticed that indeed, Yue Fai was missing from this group.

    Fang Yiwen: [What''s going on?]

    Pei Zi Hong: [Zhen Ge, are we keeping secrets from Yue Fai? How can we do that our little brother? He is such a cutie. Even my conscience would hurt.]

    Huang Shuyi: [You have a conscience @Pei Zi Hong?]

    Pei Zi Hong: [At least my conscience isn''t asleep like yours.]

    Lin Zhen: [Are you all done? Just how much do you all love bickering?]

    Fang Yiwen: [Zhen Ge, I''m the silent small bean around here. I didn''t bicker with anyone.]

    Lin Zhen: [So what? Should I give you a good boy card now?]

    Fang Yiwen: [Hehe... I don''t mind taking one.]

    Lin Zhen: [Shut up!]

    Huang Shuyi: [Since Emperor Lin Zhen is here, please let us know why we are having this secret chat?]

    Lin Zhen: [I met Yue Fai today.]

    Pei Zi Hong: [So?]

    Lin Zhen: [He took me to his home for breakfast.]

    Fang Yiwen: [What the fuck?!]

    Pei Zi Hong: [You ate breakfast at Yue Fai''s home?!]

    Huang Shuyi: [Traitor!]

    Lin Zhen rolled his eyes at their reactions. But he couldn''t me them. They all had always wanted to go to Yue Fai''s house. It was just pure curiosity since they knew almost nothing about his family.

    Lin Zhen: [You all are overreacting now.]

    Fang Yiwen: [Are we? I don''t think so.]

    Pei Zi Hong: [And Zhen Ge, you created this group chat to brag about this? That''s so mean of you.]

    Lin Zhen: [I created this group chat to tell you all that Yue Fai''s mothers invited us for dinner. You all can decide the time and day when you are avable.]

    Huang Shuyi: [I have all the time in the world.]

    Lin Zhen was amused by his answer.

    Lin Zhen: [Shuyi, don''t you have to sleep?]

    Huang Shuyi: [I can sacrifice sleep for a day.]

    Pei Zi Hong: [Zhen Ge, so did you meet all of his family?]

    Lin Zhen: [Yeah. I first met his best friend who is married to our new boss and then I met his Opa and both of his mothers as well.]

    Fang Yiwen: [Yue Fai has two mothers? Are they a couple?]

    Lin Zhen facepalmed himself: [No wonder Fai exined to me that they are not actually a couple when he was introducing us.]

    Fang Yiwen: [So, they are not?]

    Pei Zi Hong: [Yiwen, hold your emotions. I can feel your disappointment through the screen.]

    Fang Yiwen: [What? I am just asking. It''s Zhen Ge who said Fai has two mothers.]

    Lin Zhen: [One is his godmother and the other is his birth mother. In my opinion, he is more like his godmother. But he is really a baby to both his mothers. Only now I know how he turned out to be such an innocent soul.]

    Fang Yiwen: [Zhen Ge, how about we go to the dinner tomorrow?]

    Lin Zhen: [No. I don''t have time tomorrow.]

    Pei Zi Hong: [We can go without you. We don''t mind.]

    Lin Zhen''s face twitched as he read their responses. These idiots were really trying to push him out once they got what they wanted. What happened to being loyal?

    Huang Shuyi: [Zhen Ge, you can just decide when to go. We''ll just follow your lead.]

    Lin Zhen: [At the end of the day, only Shuyi is the nicest one.]

    Pei Zi Hong: [*snort* Zhen Ge, don''t be so touched. Shuyi said that because none of us even have the address. We''ll have to follow your lead.]

    Fang Yiwen: [HAHAHAHA! Zi Hong, you shouldn''t have dropped that bucket of cold water of Zhen Ge so soon. At least, allow him to be happy for a minute.]

    Lin Zhen: [None of you is any good. You all are jerks! I''m gonna go to dinner alone!]

    Fang Yiwen: [Zhen Ge!]

    Pei Zi Hong: [Zhen Ge!]

    Huang Shuyi: [Zhen Ge!]

    Lin Zhen: [Zhen Ge is not avable!]

    Fang Yiwen: [My dear Zhen Ge... My mother who didn''t give me birth. You can''t abandon your children like that.]

    Pei Zi Hong: [Yes, yes. Children make mistakes but mothers are always loving and forgiving.]

    Huang Shuyi: [Be a little more open-minded.]

    Lin Zhen: [I regret the moment I was voted to be the leader of you all jokers.]

    Fang Yiwen: [We love you too!]

    After joking around and annoying Lin Zhen to the extreme, they finally decided to go over to Hyson''s home for dinner on the night of his departure. Next week, Hyson had to join the shooting again, so they felt it was just right to go over during that time. They''d see him off. After all, the shooting was gonna continue for three months and in the past 8 years or so, they had never been apart from each other for that long.

    It was inevitable that they''d be missing their favorite little brother.

 Chapter 434 - Stupid Mistakes

    Sprawled on the sofa in the living room, Hyson was throwing a pebble up and then catching it when it came down. It was his version of wasting time all by himself. In the background, music was ying. Precisely, it was a piano piece was called ir de Lune by ude Debussy.

    ''Such a romantic piece, he doesn''t even know how to appreciate it.''

    Mu Chenyan chuckled at Yue Yue, "I also can''t see the beauty of this piano piece."

    Yue Yue gave her a disdainful look, ''Such uncultured people I have around me.''

    Mu Chenyan shook her head at her, "I''m definitely an uncultured person but don''t say anything about our family''s little baby. He is not uncultured like me. If he had been one, he wouldn''t have won one of the most prestigious piano awards at the age of 13!" She sighed out, "It''s just that he is as clueless about love as his best friend. Isn''t it obvious that he won''t be able to appreciate the romantic piece ying in the background?"

    ''Can''t you hear it?'' questioned Yue. ''Hear that music. Look how it takes you that moonlit night and makes you feel all kinds of things.''

    "Yuck!" was Mu Chenyan''s reaction. "Do I really look like someone who would be able to picture all that just from music? I don''t have such a rich imagination."

    ''You''re the reason why both Raelle and Fai don''t know what love is!''

    Mu Chenyan gaped at her, "Honey, that has nothing to do with me. You can''t always me the wrong things on me. That''s unfair!" Although she said that with certainty, in her heart she was wondering if she really influenced Raelle and Hyson in some way? She had never fallen in love in her life. That was a fact known to everyone. After all, the only thing she loved in her life was an adventure. She hardly had time for love.

    ''Chenyan, you never had a romantic encounter?''

    Mu Chenyan shrugged her shoulders, "I had a friend who proposed to me in front of the whole school. Does that count as a romantic encounter?"

    Yue Yue''s eyes sparkled with a light looking for some gossip, she pulled her over and asked, ''And then?''

    "Then nothing, I rejected him," responded Mu Chenyan nkly.

    ''What?!''

    "Don''t be so surprised."

    ''You said no in front of everyone?''

    "So, was I supposed to wait until we are alone? Wouldn''t that be toote?"

    ''But why did you say no?''

    "Because I didn''t like him like that!" said Mu Chenyan matter-of-factly. "Yeah, we slept together when we were together but what about it? Do I have to ept his feelings just because of that? I don''t think so."

    Yue Yue''s jaw almost dropped to the floor in shock. She pointed a trembling finger at Mu Chenyan, ''You slept with him?''

    Mu Chenyan gave her a weird look, "Who hasn''t slept around in their youth? Did you think I Virgin Mary or something? I had all the bad habits! Yeah, I didn''t exactly change my partners right and left but I did sleep with 2-3 people." Mu Chenyan patted Yue Yue''s shoulder who was covering her mouth with her hand, still reeling in shock. "Actually, you don''t have to feel bad for that friend of mine. It was purely an ident. And just because we spent a night together, he thought it was love. It wasn''t."

    Yue Yue pped Mu Chenyan''s head, ''Still, we don''t sleep with friends!''

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her head, "I told you, I was drunk! Drunk people do stupid mistakes."

    ''If you''re the one to make a move first, then you should take responsibility!''

    "Who said I made the first move?"

    ''I know you!''

    Mu Chenyan cleared her throat awkwardly, "Okay. It might have been me. But it''s been years. Do you have to berate me like this now? He is already married and even has two kids! Does it look like he is nursing his old wound of rejection? I don''t think so!"

    ''How do you know what he is doing?'' questioned Yue Yue strangely. ''You always told me that you don''t know what your school friends are doing. You never took interest in unnecessary people. Then why are you interested in him?''

    Mu Chenyan paused for a minute before saying, "What the hell are you saying? Who is interested in him? I just recently got to know about it and it was also just a coincidence. Do you really think I''d go out of my way to find out about people?"

    ''You look suspicious,'' was Yue Yue''s response as she eyed her best friend.

    Mu Chenyan rolled her eyes at Yue Yue, "There is no need to y detective with me." She looked at Hyson who was still at it and called out, "Fai, why don''t you go and y the piano yourself? Elder Xiang had that piano room built for you only. Don''t let the piano get moldy there."

    Hyson yawnedzily, "I''m toozy to y it myself." He tilted his head towards Mu Chenyan and suggested, "You can let mum y it. She is definitely better than me."

    "What are you saying? For me, my Fai is the best!" insisted Mu Chenyan. "If you had only a tiny bit of interest, you''d have already been the most famous pianist in the world. But you only picked up piano to find a way to Elle."

    Everyone in the family knew that Hyson had no interest in piano, per se. He only learned it from his mother because he wanted to win apetition and find his way to Country G on his own. Just because that was the challenge his best friend left for him. But after achieving his goal and getting himself a best friend, he lost his interest in piano.

    His interests were as short-lived as Mu Chenyan.. Life was like a breeze to him as well and he just loved drifting along with it.

 Chapter 435 - Pull My Cheeks

    Hyson covered his eyes with his arm as he said, "Raelle Xiang offered me a way to enter her life, I''d be an idiot not to take my chance." His lips upturned ever so slightly as he went on, "And let''s not forget, if I didn''t fight for my way into her life, she''d be too lonely."

    "So would you be," retorted Mu Chenyan as she shook her head at him. He spoke as if he wasn''t as much of a loner as she was.

    ''Then it''s a good thing they both found each other.''

    Mu Chenyan nodded along with Yue''s words and said, "You''re right. They both needed each other." She went up to Hyson''s side and bent down to pinch his cheek, "Besides, if they didn''t find each other, how would I find such a cute godson?"

    Hyson groaned as he rubbed his cheek, "My cheeks are not for ying."

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her ear asking, "What did you say? I can''t seem to hear you."

    Hyson mentally rolled his eyes, "You never listen to things you''re not interested in."

    "Absolutely," Mu Chenyan replied. "Why should I waste my time on uninterested things?"

    Yue came to tap on her shoulder, ''Just like now, you avoided talking about your dating history!''

    Mu Chenyan sighed out, "I have no dating history. Just a couple of one-night stands. No big deal."

    Hyson sat up to look at thesedies and chuckled, "Yanyan, you shouldn''t be talking about this with mum. Her life had never been as colorful as yours. You have tried everything you wanted to. And in the end, you decided to be single because that suited you better." His eyes turned to his mother, "But mum is different. Her world revolved around one rtionship that didn''t even exist."

    Yue Yue''s eyes widened when she heard her son talk about this.

    Hyson, on the other hand, stood up and stretched saying, "I''m gonna go drink some water."

    Seeing how shocked Yue Yue looked, Mu Chenyan patted her head, "Darling, you don''t need to look so shocked. Even if he isn''t interested in your past, he isn''t dense enough to not realize that you never had been in a rtionship."

    Yue Yue looked at Mu Chenyan, ''Why do you always take his side?''

    "Because you don''t," answered Mu Chenyan. "I know you love him, but you also raised him strictly and with discipline. The same discipline that your father instilled in you. And since you turn into a strict mother from a loving mother at times, I have to be on his side."

    "Why do you both look so serious?" asked Hyson as he came back after drinking water.

    "Your mother is wondering if she had been too strict with you," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Was she?" asked Hyson to no one in particr. "I never noticed though." He took a pause and added, "Oh, but if Ipare her with you, then she definitely had been a little on the strict side."

    Mu Chenyan chuckled, "Do you think I could raise my family''s young miss acting all strict with her? I don''t think so. My family''s Elle didn''t need discipline, she was born with it. What she needed was someone''s extra care and while caring for her, I ended up being too easygoing."

    "You''re only easygoing when ites to me or Ellie," reminded Hyson. "Do you think I don''t know how you act with even Xian Ge? He is particrly scared of you."

    Mu Chenyan''s brows furrowed up, "What did I do to him? I always act nice to him. After all, he is our family''s one and only son-inw."

    Hysonughed strangely, "Please! I''m not blind, eh! Even when you''re talking nicely to him, it sounds like you''re threatening him."

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips, "That can''t be helped. He stole our family''s Elle."

    "He didn''t steal her," said Hyson. "You chose him for Ellie."

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her forehead, "I''ve been asking myselftely, why did I choose him in the first ce?"

    "Let me ask you as well," said Hyson. "Why did you choose him?"

    "I don''t know," replied Mu Chenyan. "Maybe it''s because of Elder Xiang."

    Hyson snorted, "Don''t me it on Opa. You''d never ever follow someone''s lead. If you didn''t like Xian Ge, you''d even stand against Opa for Ellie''s sake. Don''t think I don''t know you at all."

    Mu Chenyan scratched her chin, "Why do you know me so well? So unnecessarily!"

    Yue Yue chuckled silently at herment.

    "There is no need tough at me," remarked Mu Chenyan. "I did choose Xian because I liked him. I was particrly satisfied with him but... Now, I don''t like him all that much. He really stole my family''s baby girl."

    "Doesn''t it hurt your conscience?" asked Hyson. "Calling Ellie as a ''baby girl?"

    Mu Chenyan glowered at him, "She may not act like it but she''ll always be our family''s baby girl!" Seeing Grandfather Xiang, Mu Chenyan turned to him, "Am I wrong, Elder Xiang?"

    "How can our Chenyan be wrong?" retorted Grandfather Xiang with a gentle smile on his lips.

    "Are you being sarcastic with me?" Mu Chenyan narrowed her eyes at him.

    "I dare not," replied Grandfather Xiang.

    Hysonughed out loud, "Even Opa is scared of you, Yanyan. Now, you can see that you''re not that easygoing."

    Mu Chenyan stared at Grandfather Xiang, "How can you not take your daughter''s side?"

    Grandfather Xiang smiled at her, "Well, I love my daughter but I have an even softer spot for my little prince."

    Mu Chenyan looked at Hyson and tsked, "Aiyah! I can''t even fight for favor with him. After all, he really is our family''s little prince. I can''t even me Elder Xiang for taking his side."

    Hyson grinned at her, "And that''s what makes me very special!"

    Mu Chenyan pulled his cheek making him yelp as she stated, "Special? You''re our family''s little ancestor!"

    Hyson threw her hand away and ran behind Grandfather Xiang, "Opa! Yanyan keeps pulling my cheeks. It''s all red now!"

 Chapter 436 - This Friendship

    "Chenyan," Grandfather Xiang''s voice deepened with a warning touch to it. "Don''t bother my little prince." He patted Hyson''s head and asked, "Are you nning on staying home all day?"

    "That seems to be the n," replied Hyson.

    "I even asked him to y the piano," said Mu Chenyan. "He just didn''t listen to me."

    Grandfather Xiang lovingly patted Hyson''s head, "How about apanying me today?"

    "Okay!" Hyson agreed without any hesitation.

    "Won''t you even ask where we are going?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    "Why should I?" retorted Hyson. "Isn''t it enough that I''m going with you?"

    Grandfather Xiang''s smile widened, "I''m going fishing."

    "Then let''s go!" Hyson jumped up, excited to go out with Grandfather Xiang.

    "Why are you so excited?" asked Mu Chenyan distastefully. "Fishing is boring. Won''t you get tired?"

    "It''s because that fishing is boring that I have to go with Opa," stated Hyson.

    "Are you going there to entertain him?"

    Hyson nodded his head, "I''m the entertainment package. Opa won''t feel bored with me around." Saying that he turned to Grandfather Xiang, "Opa, let''s go already! Where is our fishing gear? I''ll catch a big, fat fish for you."

    Grandfather Xiang chuckled at him, "Then I''ll be waiting to eat the fish you catch."

    "Got it!" Hyson gave him a finger salute.

    "What''s fun about fishing?" Mu Chenyan grumbled to herself. "It''s the most boring thing in the world. Just waste of time." She heaved a long sigh and ced her elbow on Yue''s shoulder, "By the way, I suddenly realized that your rtionship history is even more boring than fishing. What a tragedy!"

    Yue red at Mu Chenyan and pushed her elbow away from her shoulder, ''What do you mean? Is it wrong to dedicate your heart to one person?''

    Mu Chenyan straight up nodded her head, "Isn''t it? My dear aunt, I mean Elder Xiang''s wife used to say that finding your life partner is the same as finding the clothes in a shopping mall."

    ''What?!''

    Mu Chenyan exined it to her, "Isn''t it the same? When you buy clothes, do you just pick the first thing that catches your eye? No! You first browse around, check the color and design. If it''s to your taste, you even put it on to try it on to check whether it fits or it suits you or not. When you spend so much time picking just a dress that can be changed anytime, why do people offer all of their heart to someone so easily?" Yue Yue was left gaping at her analogy while she continued, "While picking your man, you should also pay as much attention as you do with your clothes. Or perhaps, even more."

    ''Is something wrong with your brain?'' questioned Yue. ''No wonder you''re single.''

    "I''m single because that suits me," replied Mu Chenyan. "Didn''t you hear what Fai said earlier? Rtionships aren''t my thing."

    Yue Yue didn''t say anything for a long while as she was lost in her own thoughts. To be honest, even she knew that Mu Chenyan wasn''t the kind of a person who would actively seek a rtionship. Her interests and ideology of life had been different from the one she had been taught. In fact, her way of living was also quite entric.

    Raelle was that anchor that had kept the pirate ship like Mu Chenyan in one ce for years. If it wasn''t for Raelle, Mu Chenyan would have long wandered off seeking the thrill and excitement in life. She was exactly the kind of person, her mother used to tell her to stay away from. But in the end, this kind of person whom elders wouldn''t find pleasing was the one who became her support.

    Although Yue Yue believed herself to be a strong person, she knew she wasn''t one. At least, not before Hyson''s birth. If she had been, she''d have fought for her love. But she wasn''t. She was so used to giving in that it made her seem like a coward. And perhaps, she was a coward. It was Hyson''s birth that made her want to be strong.

    But she became strong in the true sense after she met Mu Chenyan. Raising a son on her own wasn''t an easy task, especially since she couldn''t even speak anymore. She knew her disability brought trouble to her son but she could do nothing about it. When she first found out that Hyson was bullied by kids for having a mother who couldn''t speak, she was heartbroken. And she even fell into depression.

    It was the reason she brought Hyson to this city to start a life. And she truly found life here. Mu Chenyan was the woman she truly admired. When Yue Yue first met Mu Chenyan, she felt like Mu Chenyan was the kind of person who could hold the whole sky up with her one hand and made anyone feel protected.

    If she was a man, she''d have definitely fallen for this woman. And that''s why she wondered just how crazy men she met who didn''t even fight for her? But then again, men didn''t seem to like women who were too independent and had their own ideas. At least, that''s what she was taught.

    Mu Chenyan clicked her fingers before Yue''s eyes to get her attention, "Where are you lost? I know I''m handsome, don''t fall for me though."

    Yue Yue pinched her arm, ''Handsome?''

    Mu Chenyan cupped her face, "I''m certain that I''m handsome. If you don''t agree then... I don''t care."

    Yue Yue facepalmed herself, ''I can''t believe I became friends with you."

    Mu Chenyan hugged her shoulder, "Now, you''re stuck with me. Nothing can be done about it."

    Yue Yue rolled her eyes at Mu Chenyan. This idiot was too narcissistic. She could actually understand Raelle and Hyson''s friendship since they both were somewhat alike. But there was nothing simr in her and Mu Chenyan.. She didn''t even know how this friendship had been working for years.

 Chapter 437 - Shameless Person

    "Shall we go home now?" questioned Shui Xian. It was around 4 in the afternoon at this time. They had skipped lunch today since they had popcorn and drinks during the movie and then he dragged Raelle to this caf¨¦ for some coffee and pastries. It was obvious that only he enjoyed the sweet things between the two of them but that never meant that his wife won''t apany him.

    "Don''t you want to eat dinner?"

    Shui Xian looked at his wife and said, "We''ll eat at home."

    "Huh? But I was nning to take you out to eat," told Raelle.

    Shui Xian''s lips curled into a beautiful arc, "It''s that thought that matters to me. But I still think we should go home for dinner."

    "Why?" Raelle genuinely couldn''t understand why he insisted on this. ording to what she learned, he loved eating at fancy restaurants. It could be considered one of his hobbies to explore good restaurants, Then howe now he didn''t want to go with her?

    "It''s because you don''t like eating out," was Shui Xian''s honest response. "And I know you don''t mind eating out with me, that doesn''t mean I want to force you. Homemade food isfortable to you, how can I not know that?"

    "I''m not forcing myself to eat out though," replied Raelle. "And it''s not like I can''t eat out."

    Shui Xian shook his head, "I know. As I said, I know you can but you don''t like it. You don''t have to always take a step closer to me. Sometimes, allow me to walk over and meet you in the middle. If you continued to act like this, won''t it make our rtionship seem unbnced?"

    Raelle thought about his words deeply and seriously.

    Shui Xian offered his hand to her and holding her hand tightly in his hand, he grinned, "Let''s go! I have other reasons for going home early."

    "For instance?"

    "It''s a surprise," answered Shui Xian mysteriously.

    "But I don''t like surprises," said Raelle.

    "I know," said Shui Xian as he chuckled helplessly. "It''s not a surprise for you. It''s for Fai."

    "He also doesn''t like surprises," was Raelle''s response.

    "What?" Shui Xian was taken aback by his revtion.

    Raelle gave him a nod, "He really doesn''t. But he does love pretending though. I don''t like surprises because I like to be in control of everything around him. As for him, he doesn''t like surprises since they scare him."

    "Scare him?" asked Shui Xian curiously.

    "Hyson is most scared of change in his life," told Raelle. "Just when the life deviates from what he had in mind, it stresses him out. He looks like he doesn''t care but his mind is deep. He can spend hours pondering over the smallest of things in life."

    "Woah! He really knows how to hide his real persona,"mented Shui Xian.

    "He works in the entertainment industry," reminded Raelle. "Having a fake persona is a part of being a celebrity. Isn''t it?"

    Shui Xian couldn''t refute those words, "You''re right. It really is a part of being a celebrity."

    "So, what''s the surprise?" questioned Raelle.

    Shui Xian nced at her, "Baby, even if you ask I''m not telling for now."

    Raelle didn''t insist on knowing either. What she didn''t know was that if she had asked Shui Xian once more, he''d have spilled everything. After all, he had only so much self-control around her. But fortunately for him, she didn''t ask again.

    Raelle didn''t like questioning things, to begin with, and even if she ended up asking you something and you didn''t want to answer, she''ll never ask again. That''s just how she was.

    As they arrived in the parking, Shui Xian passed the car keys to her saying, "Wifey, how about you drive?"

    Raelle looked at the keys he held out to her and then her eyes moved to his face, "You want me to drive?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "Yup!"

    "Why? All of a sudden you want me to drive?"

    "Isn''t it because being a driver is not fun?"

    "It''s not fun?" repeated Raelle. "Then riding shotgun is fun?"

    "It is to me," replied Shui Xian. He gave her a shameless smile as he went on, "I can''t look at my wife while driving. But I can look at you all I want while sitting next to you."

    "And it''s fun to look at me?" asked Raelle. "I don''t think there is anything unique about my face that you''d want to spend hours looking at it."

    Shui Xian tsked, "Wife, you have to look at yourself with my eyes."

    "That is impossible to do unless our souls get swapped," replied Raelle nkly. "But even that is just fantasy. In the end, I can''t see myself with your eyes."

    Shui Xianughed out, "Then you''ll never know what you look like through my eyes."

    "Why do I think that you''ve been acting..." she couldn''t find the right word because she couldn''t actually understand what he was even doing.

    "I''m acting like a shameless person," Shui Xian helped her out as he grinned cheekily at her. "Am I doing a good job?"

    "Very," replied Raelle as she gave him a look before getting into the car.

    Shui Xian''s white and perfect teeth were on full disy as he jogged up to the other side and opened the door to sit inside. He tried to pull the seat belt and then looked at Raelle pitifully, "Wifey, my seatbelt is stuck. How about you help me with it?"

    Raelle turned her head and stared at Shui Xian intently, "What are you up to now?"

    "Nothing," he replied innocently.

    Raelle didn''t ponder over it and leaned over to help him with his seatbelt. As her face came closer to his, Shui Xian pressed his lips against her cheek. As she tilted her face towards him, he grinned at her and pecked her lips as well. Raelle silently helped him with his seatbelt and settled in her seat.

    "All that nonsense just to mess with me?"

    "If I won''t do it, how would you understand what shameless people look like?"

    "Do I have to know that?"

    "Yes!" replied Shui Xian certainly.

 Chapter 438 - Ride

    Shui Xian really stuck to his words and his eyes never left Raelle''s face as she drove. Her slender and long fingers wrapped around the steering wheel, her eyes focused on the road, a couple of strands of her hair teasingly stuck to the side of her face, even that watch around her wrist seemed attractive to him.

    Maybe he was really looking at her through the filter of love because everything was too beautiful to his eyes and he just couldn''t peel his eyes away. She was a mesmerizing beauty. Enthralling.

    Raelle wasn''t bothered by his eyes boring into her face. She looked as unconcerned as ever. Her concentration was entirely on the road. But she did give him a momentary nce when she heard the ''Kacha!'' sound.

    He was holding a camera which he took from the backseat and clicked a picture of her. He believed he didn''t have enough photos of his wife. There was none in their bedroom or in his office. There were few on his phone though. But now that he saw the orange-red sky in the background, he couldn''t help taking a picture of hers.

    "Was that necessary?" she inquired.

    Shui Xian was admiring the photo he clicked as he replied, "Necessary. Absolutely necessary!" He grinned to himself as he went on, "Don''t you like it when I smile? I just like taking photos of you. What''s wrong with that?"

    "Then should I smile at you?"

    Shui Xian looked up, "No! That won''t be necessary."

    "That statement could be hurtful," stated Raelle.

    Shui Xian sighed out, "Do you think I don''t want to see you smile? I do! I really do! But I don''t wanna see your fake smile. It bothers me and I told you that already." He took a brief pause before adding, "Don''t you say I have the most beautiful smile?"

    "I do," replied Raelle. "You really do have the most beautiful smile." She seemed to never get tired of saying this to him and each time, he loved hearing that.

    Even now, he ended up smiling when he heard that. "Well, do you know that I never fake a smile? I''d rather not smile if it''s noting from my heart. When a smile is from the heart, the essence is different!"

    "Oh..." was the only response Raelle could give since she didn''t understand what he meant. "Then how can I smile from the heart?"

    "You can''t possibly practice that," stated Shui Xian. "Ites naturally. When your heart feels happy, it brings a twinkle into one''s eyes, and the lips curled up involuntarily."

    "What are you gonna do with these photos?" asked Raelle, moving away from the topic of a smile since she had never had a moment in her life where her lips would curl up against her own wishes.

    "I''m gonna frame them and hang them in our bedroom," answered Shui Xian happily. "A couple of them will be ced on my office desk as well."

    "Can we not hang them in our bedroom?"

    "Why?"

    "I don''t think I have an interest in looking at my own face hanging around in my bedroom," was her answer.

    "But I already sent our couple photo to be framed," said Shui Xian.

    "When did you do that?" asked Raelle.

    "Last weekend," replied Shui Xian.

    "Even before we came back?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "I was in a hurry."

    Soon, they reached home and Raelle parked the car. As she was about to unfasten her seatbelt, she was pushed back into her seat as Shui Xian''s face leaned towards her. With a ''click'' he unbuckled her seatbelt and went back to his seat.

    "What was that now?" she asked.

    "You helped me with my seatbelt, I helped you with yours," he replied. "And don''t say you didn''t need that help."

    "I really didn''t though," said Raelle as she opened the door to alight. "You really love doing unnecessary things."

    "If it''s for my wife, I definitely don''t mind doing even unnecessary things," replied Shui Xian as he came to stand beside her. Putting both his hands on the hood of the car, he caged her as her back was against the hood of the car. "My wife is a kickass driver. I particrly enjoyed this ride."

    Raelle put her index finger under his chin and stared right into his eyes, "It was just a car ride. What''s there to enjoy? It''s not like I was riding you."

    Shui Xian''s jaw almost dropped at her statement but it seemed her finger was there to support his jaw. But he was still staring at her with his mouth agape. This woman really had no filter on her mouth. However...

    Suddenly, something started stirring within him as he closed the distance between them. "The image you just put in my head is too beautiful. What to do? Now, I really want to see it."

    Raelle''s hand moved to the back of his head. Her fingers gripped his hair and pulled his head down saying, "See it? How about I let you enjoy it?"

    Shui Xian felt his mouth going dry. Oh, how he wished to ravage her right here and right now! She not only dared to say whatever, she even dared to do it all as well. Just the thought of her above him was making something between his legs grow.

    He tsked at her, "You really know how to seduce me."

    "As your wife, I should have that talent," she replied. "If I don''t have what it takes to seduce you and you fell into the hands of a vixen outside. Where else will I find such a handsome husband for myself again?"

    Shui Xian chuckled at her words and kissed the tip of her nose, "I don''t think there is any vixen like you out there. You''re enough of an enchantress."

    "I believe I''m doing a good job at holding on to my husband?"

    Shui Xian smiled at her and nodded, "Very good!"

 Chapter 439 - Wet

    He caressed the side of her face and said, "The thing that pulls me towards you is that no matter what time it is, you''re unapologetically yourself! Nothing can deter you from being you. And nothing can stop you from saying what you want. Even if you want sex, you are not ashamed to ask for it."

    "Should I be?" she asked in return. "If I like it, why should I not ask for it?"

    "Most women don''t like admitting that they love sex," told Shui Xian. "Because they are afraid that people will call them scious or wanton. And also because men like reserved women."

    "Then are men masochists?" Shui Xian''s eyes widened at her question. "The contemporary romance I read for research purposes, there was a scenario that when a woman offered herself to the man, he threw her away but when another woman yed hard to get, he was head over heels in love with her. Does it make sense? Doesn''t that seem like he was a masochist?"

    Shui Xian licked his lips, not knowing what to say to her. Her brain activity was really on the wrong track. He cleared his throat, "Maybe it''s because men like things that are hard to attain?"

    "Then you don''t like me?"

    "Where did thate from now?"

    "You got me way too easily."

    Shui Xian shook his head, "Nope! I had to go through heartbreak and divorce and years of loneliness before I managed to find you. How is that easy?"

    Raelle pondered over his words and nodded, "That seems to be true."

    "That is true," he insisted. "In fact, it''s you who got me too easily."

    Raelle nodded again, "That''s true. I really got you easily."

    Shui Xian knocked his forehead against hers, "Baby, does that mean you don''t like me?"

    "That''s an unnecessary question," replied Raelle. "I won''t even be standing here if that was the case."

    Shui Xian smiled happily as his nose rubbed against her face, "That''s also true." His lips pressed against the corner of her lips as he whispered, "About that ride... When are you taking me on it?"

    Raelle didn''t even have to think what he was talking about as she gripped his nape and pressed his lips against hers. Her tongue stirred a storm of feelings within him as he pushed her down making her lie down on the hood of the car.

    Her other hand went down and gripped his manhood making him gasp.

    "Oh, you''re quite impatient," stated Raelle. Although there were no feelings in her voice, he seemed to have an illusion that she seemed to be teasing him.

    "Are you telling me you''re not wet right now?" he retorted with a challenging gaze directed towards her.

    *Cough! Cough!*

    Both Shui Xian and Raelle paused in their actions and turned their heads towards the door of the house where Shui Koshing was standing covering his eyes with his hands.

    "Can you both warn this old man?" he shouted at them. He peeked through his fingers and saw that they had separated. Only then did he put his hands down and say, "Or get a room! Why does it have to be at the entrance?"

    "B¨¤, what are you embarrassed about?" asked Raelle. "Even we don''t mind doing it here."

    Shui Xian put his hand on her head and stopped her from continuing, "B¨¤, we just forgot where we were."

    "I can see that," said Shui Koshing. "It took me almost three decades to know that my son is a wife-ve. That''s a wonderful discovery."

    Shui Xian rubbed his nose in embarrassment. It was really not a wonderful feeling to be seen by your own father not once but twice in this kind of situation. But seeing how his wife was standing so confidently, he straightened up as well. That''s right! She was his wife! Legal wife! He didn''t do anything wrong. Why should he be embarrassed?

    "What''s a wife-ve?" asked Raelle. "I should look it up."

    Shui Xian held her back, "There is no need to."

    Shui Koshing stifled hisughter and looked all serious as he said, "Yeah, daughter, you don''t have to look it up. Just look at your husband. He is a ssic example of a wife-ve."

    Shui Xian looked over at his father, "B¨¤, I haven''t gone to the point of being called a wife-ve yet."

    "Exactly!" said Shui Koshing. "Not yet. But you''re on the road. Your destination isn''t that far." He turned to go back inside saying, "Whatever y you both are acting, juste inside and do it. Don''t burn other''s eyes with your excessive disy of passion in broad daylight."

    "B¨¤, are you jealous?" asked Raelle innocently.

    "Pfft!" Shui Xian couldn''t help it while Shui Koshing''s lips pursed up.

    Turning back to face his daughter-inw, Shui Koshing said, "Dear daughter, I am jealous. You both don''t have to repeatedly remind me that my wife isn''t here anymore."

    "I''m sorry for that," said Raelle instantly. "I didn''t think it''d hurt you."

    Shui Koshing chuckled at her words and walked over to her. Rubbing her head, he said, "I''m not feeling hurt. I actually feel really happy seeing my son and daughter-inw being so close. But I''m old. It''s better if I don''t get to see you both being so touchy around me."

    "I''ll pay attention to that," said Raelle resolutely.

    "There is no need to be so serious," said Shui Koshing.

    "Then who told you make it sound so serious," argued Shui Xian.

    Shui Koshing looked at his son, "There you go again taking a stance for your wife."

    "You''re the one who told me to always stand on her side!" reminded Shui Xian.

    Shui Koshing cleared his throat saying, "Whatever! Juste inside already." He didn''t want to argue anymore since he knew that his son was right. He had advised his son to always stand on Raelle''s side.. How could he continue this argument? Even he''d stand on her side if he had to.

 Chapter 440 - Had To Come

    Yue Yue was sitting on the porch with sheets of paper scattered on the table before her. She bit down on the end of the pencil as she stared at the design on the paper in her hands. She picked up the drawing pad from the side and started drawing.

    She was so absorbed in her work that she didn''t even notice when a car came to park at the entrance of the house. A tall man alighted from the car and was pleasantly surprised to see Yue Yue sitting on the porch.

    He happily jogged up to her side and called out, "Ayi!"

    Yue Yue was startled and ced her hand over her chest as she looked at Zhai Yanjun''s grinning face.

    "Did I scare you?" Zhai Yanjun''s smile was lost when he noticed how shocked she was. "Sorry! I didn''t mean to."

    Yue Yue raised her hand shook it to indicate that it didn''t matter. It was her who was too lost in her own world to notice her surroundings. It wasn''t his fault at all. She smiled at him lovingly and patted the seat beside her, asking him to sit down.

    Zhai Yanjun nodded his head and sat down beside her.

    Yue Yue observed him from top to bottom. He was giving off a heroic feeling today. It was her first time seeing him in his military uniform. It gave him apletely different feeling. Seeing him in that uniform, she felt her heart swelling with pride. Especially when she looked at the badges that decorated his uniform.

    She picked up her drawing pad and wrote, ''You look really handsome in this uniform.''

    Zhai Yanjun chuckled, "Do I?"

    Yue Yue nodded her head vigorously to emphasize her words. The sparkle in her eyes didn''t dim at all as she stared at him intently. Zhai Yanjun felt a bit uneasy at being stared at like that. But a part of him was actually really happy right now. When he joined the army, both his grandparents actually didn''t agree with his decision. They loved him way too much and didn''t want him to suffer or get hurt. His father was the only one who actually had no opinion about his career choices.

    But even when he sessfully raised his ranks without anyone''s help, no one had looked at him with such tant pride. He could practically see how happy Yue Yue was to see him in this uniform. For the first time in a long time, he felt like all his pain was worth it to reach this position.

    Since she couldn''t call out anyone, she texted the housekeeper to arrange something to drink for Zhai Yanjun along with snacks.

    ''Howe you''re here? Did youe to see, Fai? But he went fishing with Uncle Xiang,'' Zhai Yanjun read what she wrote on the pad and shook his head at her.

    "I didn''te to see Fai," he told her. "I came to see my Ayi." Yue Yue was stunned. "Why? I am not allowed toe and see my Ayi?"

    Yue Yue hurriedly shook her head and wrote, ''That''s not what I meant. I just didn''t think you''de to see me.''

    "Then get used to it now," stated Zhai Yanjun. "Now that I have found you, I''ll keeping to disturb you whenever I have a chance to do so."

    Yue Yue smiled at him, ''You''re wee toe anytime.'' And then she added, ''Let''s go inside first.''

    Zhai Yanjun agreed and helped her in organizing her things and followed her inside the house. Yue Yue sat down in the living room with him.

    "You''re home alone?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    ''There is house help.''

    Zhai Yanjun shook his head, "I meant, what about the rest of the people? Oh, wait! You said Fai went out with Grandfather Xiang. Then Mu Chenyan should be here, no?"

    ''She went out as well,'' answered Yue Yue to him. ''She had something to take care of.''

    "Then you''re really alone right now," stated Zhai Yanjun.

    ''How is that possible?'' Zhai Yanjun raised his brows at her when he read what she wrote and wondered who else was in the house. ''Aren''t you here?''

    Zhai Yanjun was stunned for a moment before he ended up smiling at her. "That''s true. Now, I am here. How can you be alone?"

    Yue Yue smiled back at him gently and even raised her hand to touch his hair but stopped herself. Zhai Yanjun noticed her movement and held her wrist before cing her hand on his own head saying, "You''re still my Ayi. How can you think twice before patting my head?"

    ''But you''re old now and you have also be a capable man. How can I just randomly rub your head?''

    Zhai Yanjun tsked at her, "How can you not? Isn''t Fai still a kid to you?" Yue Yue nodded her head. "Then why treat me differently? Don''t be so obvious about your biasedness."

    Yue Yue frowned and pped the back of his head lightly but he grinned in response. He took her hand in his own and told her, "I have to go back to the base today. So, I came to meet you before leaving. It''s difficult toe out of the base so often even if I''m a Captain. But I''ll find every chance toe and see you."

    ''There is no need to go that length,'' she wrote. ''Just do your duty honestly.''

    "But what to do if I miss you?" he retorted aggrievedly.

    Yue Yue fell into deep thought and sighed out silently, ''Then you cane whenever you miss me.''

    Zhai Yanjun smiled slyly, "I wille! I definitely have toe!"

    He wasn''t gonna let any chance to see his aunt go. How could he? She made him feel loved. She gave him a warm feeling. She made him feelfortable.. And she was so sweet. How could he possibly note to see such an aunt who obviously doted on him? He had toe!

 Chapter 441 - Not Asking

    Zhai Yanjun was feeling extremely rxed sitting with Yue Yue and chatting happily. He was offered tea and freshly baked snacks as well that only made the atmosphere more pleasant. Zhai Yanjun didn''t feel impatient while waiting for Yue Yue to write down what she wanted to say to him each time. He was willing to wait patiently.

    And he particrly enjoyed this conversation as well. They didn''t discuss anything heavy. They were just making small talks and Zhai Yanjun shared some anecdotes with her about the army which Yue Yue listened attentively. Neither of them felt bored talking about such random things.

    Zhai Yanjun felt like he couldn''t possibly get tired of talking to her. And he also felt like he had way too many things to share with her. After all, she had been missing from his life for over two decades now. So, no matter how much he said it won''t be enough.

    "Ayi..."

    Yue Yue raised her brow at him, noticing his gaze, she could actually tell where he was about to go with this.

    "When I first met you here, I had actually nned to go back to my maternal grandparents to question them why I had to forget that I had an aunt like you."

    Yue Yue''s body stiffened when she heard that. Her eyes widened and he could see the panic in her eyes.

    He patted the back of her hand, "But I didn''t." Yue Yue''s body finally rxed but she wasn''tpletely at ease right now. "Actually, it''s Fai whose words made me change my mind."

    Yue Yue''s brows furrowed up as she looked at him and then wrote, ''Fai? What did he do?''

    Zhai Yanjun shook his head, "Rx. He just told me that I had no right to intervene in your personal life. Whatever might be the reason for why I found you here, I should never go behind your back and try to probe into your life."

    ''Don''t mind his words.''

    Zhai Yanjun read what she wrote and smiled at her, "I didn''t mind at all. He is protective of you and I can see that. Anything that can potentially hurt you, he''d do everything in his power to keep it away from you." He nced at her, "He is a good son."

    ''So are you,'' responded Yue Yue and even caressed his face lovingly.

    Zhai Yanjun chuckled at her and shook his head, "No matter who you ask, I am not a good son. I know that. And at the end of the day, I don''t want to be a good son. I am known as a good grandson but I can never be a good son to my parents." ''Because they had never been good parents to me.'' He didn''t speak out the rest of his sentence because he knew she wouldn''t like hearing it.

    Yue Yue felt heartache looking at him like that. She remembered him as a happy and lively child. She knew people changed with age but she didn''t think he''d change to this degree. Earlier when he wasughing and chatting with her, she thought that was how he was supposed to be. But the truth was, there was something painful behind his smile now and she didn''t know what it was. And she certainly didn''t like it either.

    "Ayi, can you tell me why you left me?"

    Yue Yue opened her mouth but nothing came out. She hesitated before writing down, ''I wasn''t allowed to be around you.'' She paused before she went on writing, ''You should have heard that I was kicked out of the family. You might not even find my name on the family genealogy anymore.''

    "And what if I want to know why you had to leave?"

    Yue Yue didn''t know how to answer this question. She obviously couldn''t tell him the truth. She never intended to speak about that incident ever again. But she didn''t really want to lie to him either. This put her in a difficult position.

    ''Can you not ask that?''

    Zhai Yanjun looked at what she wrote and looked up at her. He could see that she really didn''t want him to ask about it. He pondered over it for a while before questioning, "It has something to do with my mother, right?"

    Yue Yue shook her head and wrote, ''No, it was I who was too young and naive back then.''

    Not even for a second did Zhai Yanjun believe her words. He just couldn''t bring himself to believe that it had nothing to do with his mother. He wasn''t blind, he had seen how his mother had been trying to take control of the Yue family in all these years. Wasn''t that the reason that now she even wanted to step into politics like every n head had done before her?

    He wasn''t that oblivious to his mother''s deep-minded schemes. It was just that he liked keeping his distance from that woman.

    Yue Yue didn''t know why but she could feel a sort of hostility and resentmenting from Zhai Yanjun. It wasn''t directed at her but she didn''t know whom he was thinking about to make his whole persona take such a drastic turn. Who could influence him to this point?

    "I won''t ask you again about what happened in the past," he told her solemnly. "It''s not like I can change the past but I do want you in my present."

    Yue Yue smiled at him gently, ''I''m here.''

    "Well, I hope you don''t disappear again,"mented Zhai Yanjun yfully but Yue Yue could tell he was being serious right now. He really didn''t want her to disappear but then again, where else could she disappear now?

    It had been easy to disappear two decades ago but in today''s age, it was difficult to do so. Technology was quite advanced and it wasn''t all that difficult to find someone. Besides, she had a son who was a celebrity. It made it even more difficult to hide her whereabouts.. Anyone who could find her son would be able to reach her as well.

 Chapter 442 - Just Love?

    ''Let''s not discuss these heavy topics. Tell me something about your life.''

    Zhai Yanjun raised his brows at her inquisitively. Seeing her curious look and the way her eyes sparkled, he had a premonition.

    ''Do you have a girlfriend?''

    Zhai Yanjun almost wanted to roll his eyes at that question. He should have paid attention to the premonition he felt. Where else could it possibly go? It had toe to his rtionship status.

    "Um... No," replied Zhai Yanjun.

    Yue Yue''s face fell. ''Why not? Even with this face, you can''t get a girlfriend? Aren''t you ashamed of being such a failure?''

    Zhai Yanjun gaped at her while Yue Yue gave him a disappointed look.

    "Fai also doesn''t have a girlfriend," reminded Zhai Yanjun. He wanted to pull in Hyson so that he could escape from this topic but he didn''t expect it to fail.

    ''My son is an utter disappointment when ites to this stuff,'' was Yue Yue''s response. ''I don''t even give a da...'' she hurriedly erased this sentence and wrote again, ''I mean I don''t even care if he brings a girl or a guy or even a block of wood! It''d already be a blessing if he managed to get attracted to someone. But he is quite hopeless for now.''

    Zhai Yanjun was taken aback by her expectations of Hyson. "I can understand a girl or a guy but is it even possible to get attracted to a block of wood?" He just couldn''t hold himself back from asking this.

    ''I don''t care!''

    Zhai Yanjun nodded his head, "I can see that now."

    ''What about you?'' she questioned again. ''Even if you have a boyfriend, I don''t mind. I really don''t.''

    Zhai Yanjun chuckled in amusement, "I''m happy to hear that but I am not interested in men."

    ''What about women then?'' she raised her brows in anticipation.

    He smiled at her, "I had a girlfriend but we broke up almost a year ago."

    ''Why?''

    "Because our rtionship was never based on love," he told her honestly. He didn''t feel like lying to her and he was morefortable in telling her everything honestly. It made him feel close to her. "We got together when we entered the military academy and it was only because we both needed something from the other. Although this rtionship went on and off for a decade, at the end of the day, even I don''t know if it was really love or not."

    He used to tell himself that it was love. He desperately made himself believe that it was love. But it was Xiang Wai who reminded him why they first got into a rtionship. Even when he had told her he loved her, she had said, ''You don''t. Stop lying to yourself, Yanjun. It was never love.''

    He would have loved to argue with her and insist that it was love but today, even he was uncertain whether it was really love or he had really been deceiving himself for all these years?

    ''Are you struggling to find the answer?'' asked Yue Yue. ''Does it really matter whether it''s love or not?''

    "Doesn''t that matter in a rtionship?" he retorted.

    ''I used to think like you and then I met Mu Chenyan, Raelle, and even my own son, Fai. These three people made me realize that the rtionship based solely on love is actually quite shallow. A man''s heart is unpredictable. One can fall in love anywhere and anytime and with anyone. But then why can''t the same man fall in love again?''

    Zhai Yanjun pondered deeply about her words and nodded his head in agreement.

    ''Chenyan said rtionships need trust, Raelle said rtionships need loyalty, and to Fai, rtionships need support. To these three people, love is unnecessary in life. It''s not even thest thing they think about in their lives.'' Yue Yue actually felt helpless about it as she wrote it down. But after spending years with such three people, she was influenced as well. She, who used to worship love wholeheartedly and started looking out of the box. ''You just said that you both spent ten years together. And in the end, you gave up on each other just because you felt like there was no love?''

    "But isn''t love still what strengthens a rtionship?"

    Yue Yue nodded her head, ''It does y its part. But tell me, in that decade were you happy with her?''

    Zhai Yanjun thought back to his rtionship journey with Xiang Wai. He had to say, it was quite an eventful and happy one. Yes, they had unpleasant moments as well. But they understood each other too deeply. Even if Xiang Wai was the most casual person he had evere across, she still knew what he liked and what he disliked.

    "I''d say we were happy," he told her. "We did break up a lot but it was over really random things. I can''t even seem to recall why we acted that way."

    Yue Yue offered him a smile. ''By telling you all this, I''m not asking you to get back together with her. I''m just telling you that a rtionship has more to it than just love. So, don''t close off your options. And who knows when you stop looking for love, you might actually find it.''

    "How are you so optimistic about everything?"

    ''Did you forget? I''m surrounded by unique people.'' Yue Yue had a loving smile on her lips as she wrote it.

    Zhai Yanjun chuckled, "Indeed. You really have a variety of unique people around you." Zhai Yanjun thought about Fai''s cheery and happy-go-lucky personality, Raelle''s ever so calm and rational self, and then Mu Chenyan''s wild yet strong self. He had to say having such people in one''s life was truly a blessing. "Now, I can finally see how Fai''s personality was shaped."

    Yue Yue didn''t deny his words either. Even she agreed that it was Hyson''s encounter with Raelle that shaped him into the person he was today.. Or else, because of all the bullying, he might have turned into a gloomy person.

 Chapter 443 - Smart Fish

    "I just heard my name," came a voice from the door. "Who is badmouthing me behind my back?" As Hyson walked into the living room, he saw Zhai Yanjun sittingfortably with his mother. This scene made Hyson''s eyes narrow. "Opa, didn''t I tell you someone is talking bad behind my back and that''s why I had been sneezing so much? See? Here is the culprit!"

    Grandfather Xiang operated his wheelchair to go beside Zhai Yanjun, "Aiyo, it''s Captain Zhai. What an honor to have you here!"

    Zhai Yanjun felt embarrassed when he heard such words from Grandfather Xiang, "Granduncle, don''t embarrass me like that."

    "When did I?" said Grandfather Xiang. "However, I can''t let go of the fact that you''re badmouthing our little prince." Of course, he was taking a stand for Hyson. Even though it was unreasonable. He wasn''t blind. He had seen how Hyson had rolled up his pants to walk into theke to catch fish. In his own words, he was taking a step into the fish''s home to call them out. And that was the reason, Hyson had been sneezing so much.

    However, was Hyson gonna ept that? No! And was Grandfather Xiang gonna expose him? Definitely not!

    He''d just stand beside his little prince even if it was absurd.

    Hyson proudly puffed up his chest as he faced Zhai Yanjun, "It''s all your fault that I''m sneezing."

    Zhai Yanjun really had no way to argue with both of them and he could only look at Yue Yue pitifully. Yue Yue pulled him behind her and faced Hyson and Grandfather Xiang''s unreasonable stance, ''What are you both doing? I can understand Fai but Uncle, you too?''

    Grandfather Xiang cleared his throat awkwardly, "Little Yue, I can''t leave my little prince alone."

    Yue Yue ced her hands on her hips and red at him before lifting her hand to say, ''But that doesn''t mean you agree with all of his nonsense.''

    "Mum, you should stop being so obviously biased," said Hyson. "Your son can get hurt."

    "Who dares hurt my Fai?" came Mu Chenyan''s roaring voice as she heard Hyson''s aggrieved voice. She came rushing to Hyson''s side and looked him up and down, "Fai, who hurt you? Tell me, I''ll avenge you!" She thought to herself a bit and went on, "But you went to catch fishes, no? I don''t think fishes can hurt you."

    Hyson hugged Mu Chenyan, "She hurt me!"

    Mu Chenyan looked at who he pointed and faced Yue Yue. Her brow quirked up in surprise, "Yah! I told you to be careful. I won''t be nice if you hurt my Fai. Even if he is your son, I won''t allow you to hurt him."

    Yue Yue rolled her eyes, ''This family is just crazy about this son of mine. Even if he one day says that the earth is t, none of you is gonna disagree.''

    "Why should we disagree?" retorted Mu Chenyan. "It hurts no one even if he says the earth is t."

    Yue Yue felt exasperated talking to this family. Especially when it was about Hyson. Whether it was Grandfather Xiang or Mu Chenyan, both won''t say any harsh words to Hyson. The only person who said everything honestly was Raelle but she couldn''t even count on her. It might not seem like it and Raelle might not even know it herself but she was obviously very biased towards Hyson.

    Sometimes she didn''t whether she should feel fortunate that her son had such a loving family or feel distressed that she couldn''t even do anything to this son when these people were around?

    "You smell like fish,"mented Mu Chenyan.

    Hyson took a whiff of his clothes and made a face, "I really do."

    "How many did you catch?" asked Mu Chenyan while fixing Hyson''s hair.

    "None!" Hyson announced proudly. And he even had the mood tough out as he said it. He didn''t think it was embarrassing that he spent hours trying to catch fish yet catch none. To him, this failure was nothing. "Fishes have be smarter," he told Mu Chenyan. "They ran away with the bait before I could even pull them up."

    "Oh, my poor baby!" said Mu Chenyan. "It''s okay."

    "I know it''s okay," said Hyson. "In fact, Opa caught a lot. He has a whole bucket of them. We can have a whole fish feast if we want to."

    "Really?" Mu Chenyan wasn''t really surprised when she heard that. How could Grandfather Xiang not catch a few fishes? It was too easy for him. "Then tell me what should we make with those fishes?"

    "How about we grill some?" suggested Hyson.

    "Let''s do that!" She agreed without any hesitation.

    Meanwhile, Yue Yue was shaking her head looking at this interaction and Zhai Yanjun was being amused. His understanding of how this family was kept changing with every visit. It was just as Yue Yue said, they were truly biased when it came to Hyson.

    "Elder Xiang, did you have fun?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "How can I not have fun with our little prince around?" replied Grandfather Xiang. He truly didn''t feel bored at all with Hyson jumping around him all this while.

    Mu Chenyan looked over at Zhai Yanjun and smiled at him, "Captain! You''re looking handsome tonight." Zhai Yanjun felt ttered to hear that from Mu Chenyan and scratched the back of his head. "Don''t leave before dinner. I''ll instruct the cook to make something delicious."

    "There is no need for that though," said Zhai Yanjun. "I have to go back to the base. I''ll get something in the mess. There is no need to bother you."

    Hyson stated at him, "Do you think you can leave this house without eating? Dream on! People in this house love feeding others." He wasn''t joking and even Zhai Yanjun understood that much. Every time he came both Yue Yue and Mu Chenyan would ask him about food. It was really like they loved feeding people.. "Besides, it''s not like they are especially cooking for you."

 Chapter 444 - Good Boy

    "You came again to steal my mother?" Hyson poked Zhai Yanjun''s stomach when he found the chance to do so. He knew this man was up to no good!

    Zhai Yanjun was in a good mood and his mood got even better when he heard Hyson''s disgruntled tone. Giving him a provoking nce, he said, "My Ayi said I cane whenever I feel like it. No one can stop me froming to see her. Not even you!"

    Hyson bared his teeth at him dangerously but Zhai Yanjun waspletely unaffected.

    "Fai, go and freshen up first. Then hurry down for dinner," instructed Mu Chenyan. "I just checked, everything is almost ready. I''m gonna make some grilled fish for you and then we''ll eat together."

    "I was supposed to have dinner at Ellie''s ce though," said Hyson.

    ''Stop always going over to her ce.'' Hyson frowned as he noticed what his mother was saying. ''She is married now. It''s not good for you to go over to her ce every other day.''

    Hyson scoffed, "It''s Xian Ge who invited me over. Why can''t I go?" He took a pause and added, "And what do you mean by I can''t meet her just because she is married? What''s wrong with going to see my best friend? Uncle Shing doesn''t mind."

    ''Just because your Uncle Shing doesn''t mind doesn''t mean you should be shameless.''

    "Well, I am shameless," replied Hyson as he spread out his hands helplessly. "You can''t do anything about it."

    Mu Chenyan chuckled at his reaction and pulled Yue Yue away, "Stop always nagging him like an old mother. I know you''re old but don''t be so naggy now."

    ''Who are you calling naggy?'' Yue Yue''s eyes breathed fire. She would have exploded if she could speak right now.

    Mu Chenyan ruffled her hair, unbothered by her anger. In fact, she found this anger to be quite adorable. It was like someone stepped on a kitten''s tail and all her hairs stood up vigntly.

    "I''m calling you naggy," Mu Chenyan didn''t even bother changing her words. "There is nothing wrong with Fai going to see Raelle every now and then. You and I both know how Koshing is, he would never say that Faies over way too much."

    Yue Yue couldn''t deny those words. It was indeed like that.

    "Besides, our Fai is so adorable,"mented Mu Chenyan. "No one can possibly dislike him. He knows how to capture all the love."

    Meanwhile, Zhai Yanjun looked at Hyson, "Xian called you over for dinner?"

    Hyson nodded his head, "Yes."

    "Are you going?"

    "Not anymore," replied Hyson.

    "Why? Wanna keep an eye on me?" Zhai Yanjun teased him. "Afraid that I''ll take away your mum?"

    Hyson scoffed at him, "Feeling smug, are we now?" He rolled his eyes at Zhai Yanjun, "I don''t have to keep an eye on you. My mum would never leave me."

    "Such faith in her?" Zhai Yanjun sounded bitter as he added, "It must feel good to have such trust in your mother."

    Hyson narrowed his eyes at Zhai Yanjun and changed the topic, "Anyway, as I said, I won''t be going. I''m a good boy. Opa says we should never be disrespectful to guests. Since you are here, I can''t possibly give you a cold shoulder even if I want to."

    "You''re a good boy?" Zhai Yanjun was quite amused to hear that.

    "I am," replied Hyson proudly. "And I''m not lying. Even if you bring Ellie to my position, as long as you''re a guest, she will be respectful to you. Until or unless you don''t do anything to provoke her."

    "Who would dare provoke thendmine like her?" retorted Zhai Yanjun subconsciously.

    Hyson narrowed his eyes at him dangerously, "Think before speaking about my best friend."

    "You''re really overbearing,"mented Zhai Yanjun. He wrapped his arm around Hyson''s neck and said, "But I thought we parted on good termsst night. And we had such a good time at the amusement park as well. I took such good care of you as well. But now, I feel like somehow provoked you."

    "You think it''s that easy to digest that you''re my brother?" Hyson muttered to himself in a low voice that only he could hear. "It''ll take me some time to digest this face of yours."

    Zhai Yanjun touched his face, "I believe I am quite handsome. My features are quite pleasing to the eye and very easy to digest."

    "Delusional!" retorted Hyson.

    "Fai!"

    "Yes, Opa!" Hyson straightened up immediately as he heard Grandfather Xiang calling him.

    "Be nice to our guest," reminded Grandfather Xiang.

    "Yes, Opa!"

    Zhai Yanjun smiled at them and said, "You really respect Granduncle, eh?"

    "He is one of the most important people to me," replied Hyson. "How can I not respect him? I admire him the most as well. And he has taught me so much that mum could never do. His presence is really precious to me."

    Zhai Yanjun hummed as he nodded, "I can see that all."

    "Fai, do you know why Xian called you over?" asked Grandfather Xiang feeling curious.

    "I don''t know," replied Hyson. "I just got the text when we were fishing. He asked me to have dinner at his ce." He pondered a bit before adding, "But if I have to guess, it must be that Ellie must have bought something for mum and Yanyan. Now, she is gonna use me as a delivery man."

    It had to be said that he really knew his best friend down to the core. Just from the fact that Raelle had gone shopping today, he already was certain that she bought something for those twodies. And he wasn''t wrong either. Raelle indeed had been nning on using him as a delivery man to take the things she bought for them.

    "But it''s not Raelle asking you toe over," reminded Grandfather Xiang.

    "Oh, that''s right," nodded Hyson. "It''s Xian Ge who called me over. Then it must be rted to me." He scratched his head, "I can''t think of anything."

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head, "Then after dinner, you should go over. Don''t let your brother-inw down." He operated his wheelchair and moved towards the kitchen, "I''m gonna see what thedies are up to. Keep our guestpany."

    "Don''t worry! I''ll take good care of him!" Saying that Hyson gave Zhai Yanjun a frightening look.

    "Don''t scare me with that look," said Zhai Yanjun.

    "What scare? Is this enough to scare you?" asked Hyson. "With that uniform on, you even dare to be scared of a little me? How am I as a civilian supposed to feel protected with soldiers as fearful as you? How am I supposed to have faith in my national security?"

    Zhai Yanjun lifted his hand and patted Hyson''s shoulder, "Calm down tiger!"

    "How am I supposed to calm down?" retorted Hyson. "I suddenly feel unprotected knowing there are scaredy cats in our army."

    "Don''t look down on me like that," said Zhai Yanjun. "Gosh! You''re so dramatic!"

    "Yes, I am," agreed Hyson. "Did you just notice?"

    "Yeah," replied Zhai Yanjun. "Oh, by the way, you still smell like fish."

    Hyson gave him a dirty look before he smirked and lifted his shirt and put it over Zhai Yanjun''s head saying, "Then take this! I''m gonna kill you with this smell."

    "Ah! Fai!" yelled Zhai Yanjun. It was only because that Zhai Yanjun had better skills that he managed to escape from Hyson''s paws. He red at Hyson, "Are you a kid? Why so childish?"

    "I just am," replied Hyson. "Who told you toin that I smell like fish?"

    "What? Are you gonna go over to Xian''s ce like this as well?"

    "No," said Hyson. "I''m gonna wash up before going there."

    "Then why don''t you just wash up now?"

    "Because I want to annoy you."

    Zhai Yanjun felt helpless when he heard that. Hyson was doing it just to annoy him but why did he not find it annoying now? He actually felt like he was enjoying this petty squabble a lot. It made him feel free and rxed. He seemed to be getting addicted to this kind of feeling.

    He tsked at Hyson, "I see you put Xian in a higher position than me."

    "Wasn''t it obvious already?" asked Hyson. "Xian Ge is my idol. And then he is even my Ellie''s husband! Do you realize what kind of a position that is? He is the most awesome person to me. What are you? Why should I like you when you keep getting close to my mum? And she is even biased towards you."

    "Woah! You don''t even mince your words," said Zhai Yanjun. "What if I am hurt by what you just said?"

    Hyson shrugged his shoulders, "You''re a big boy. I believe you can handle this much."

    "I seriously can''t understand you,"mented Zhain Yanjun as he sighed to himself.. He honestly couldn''t understand Hyson at all.

 Chapter 445 - Deep

    Cui Xukun had a very odd expression on his face throughout their way back home. First, he had seen Shui Xian and Raelle in the same cinema as him and Cloe. They were watching the same movie and they weren''t even that far from each other.

    Don''t assume that just because of dim lights, he hadn''t seen that crying face of Shui Xian. He really felt facepalming when he had seen that. Howe his ex-best friend hadn''t changed even after all this while? He was still getting emotional over movies? But he couldn''t possiblyin about that either. He had known how emotionally active Shui Xian had been since he was a kid.

    As if that was not enough, he had run into that couple even in the parking lot. At this point, he had ck lines on his forehead.

    "Why am I seeing him everywhere?" he couldn''t help asking in a low voice.

    "Perhaps because your eyes had been looking for him," replied Cloe.

    Cui Xukun had wanted to refute her words but he had nothing to say. Perhaps, unknowingly he had been trying to find Shui Xian. Because deep down he really wanted to see how far they had drifted from each other in these years and whether there really was no way left for them to go back to the way they had been.

    And the more he saw, the more he had confirmed that Shui Xian and he was not living in two different worlds. And he couldn''t even me Shui Xian for that either. At the end of the day, it was him who had left to hide from his feelings. But while doing so, he seemed to have forgotten that he wasn''t just leaving his first love behind, along with that first love was also Shui Xian who was his best friend.

    However, he chose to let his feelings get the best of him and disappointed his best friend.

    "Why do you look so disturbed?" asked Cloe as he parked the car.

    "I guess I have too many things on my mind," replied Cui Xukun. As if thinking about something, he added, "Oh, I''m sorry! I''m really sorry! I shouldn''t be distracted in your presence. I''m such an idiot!"

    Cloe chuckled at him, "It''s alright." As he continued to follow her inside the elevator, she looked at him with a raised brow, "So, you''re going over to your sister''s ce?"

    Cui Xukun shook his head, "Not really." He rubbed the nape of his neck sheepishly, "I just wanted to see you off at the door."

    "Oh," Cloe nodded her head in understanding.

    "It doesn''t mean I want to follow you to your ce," said Cui Xukun hurriedly as he tried to exin himself. "That''s not my intention."

    Cloe''s brows quirked up and a mischievous glint shed through her eyes, "I was gonna invite you inside for some tea but since you don''t want to..."

    "I want!" Cui Xukun interrupted her without even thinking. He instantly regretted it when he noticed the way she looked at him. That teasing gaze was too much for his poor heart. But he didn''t go back on his words. Since he had already said it, he decided to stick to his words to the end!

    "But didn''t you just say that you had no such intention?" asked Cloe innocently?

    Cui Xukun looked aggrieved, "That''s not what I meant."

    "Really? Then what did you mean?"

    Cui Xukun opened his mouth to exin but seeing that smile ying at the corner of Cloe''s lips he said, "You''re teasing me?"

    Cloe pressed her lips together and rubbed her nose, "Couldn''t help it. It''s actually quite fun teasing you." Sheughed to herself, "As I told you earlier, you get easily flustered. And I like to see you like that."

    Cui Xukun continued to look at her smile and couldn''t help smiling himself, "As long as you like it."

    "On a serious note, you can share what''s bothering you with me," said Cloe. "I might not be of much help. But I can listen. I am actually quite good at listening now."

    Cui Xukun felt his heartwarming up when he heard her say that. Although those words weren''t much, they held quite some weight in his heart that was beating for her.

    "It''s nothing much," he told her. "I just think that Xian and I havee too far in our lives now."

    "That''s for sure," agreed Cloe as she stepped out of the elevator with him following behind her like her tail. "You both aren''t in high school anymore. How can you expect you both to be the same carefree boys you both once were?"

    "Time really changes fast,"mented Cui Xukun ruefully. "And we lose too many precious things and people along the way."

    "You can''t stop the hand of time from moving," said Cloe. "And you can''t expect to hold on to something for life. If it''s not meant to be yours, it''ll drift away no matter what. All you can do is cherish the feelings of the time spent together."

    "You are deep," said Cui Xukun.

    "And you''re surprised?" asked Cloe. "Don''t I look like it?"

    Cui Xukun shook his head, "You really don''t look like such a deep person. I thought you always wore your emotions on your face dauntlessly."

    Cloe snorted, "It''s as if you''re talking about the time when I was in college. Wait!" She eyed Cui Xukun suspiciously, "Did you know me when I was in college?"

    Cui Xukun was caught off guard when he heard that question. His eyes widened slightly as he realized that he seemed to have slipped up a little.

    "About that..." Before he could continue, he heard someone pacing around in the corridor.

    Cloe lifted her eyes to look at that familiar figure and her brows furrowed up, "What happened to you?" Hearing her question, Cui Xukun also looked up to see that person who stood in front of Cloe''s apartment.

 Chapter 446 - Working Hard

    Soren looked up and faced Cloe. Then his eyes wandered towards his brother-inw, Cui Xukun.

    "Nothing happened to me," replied Soren to Cloe''s earlier question.

    "Then why are to parading in front of my door?" she questioned.

    "I''m not," he retorted. He pointed at the door beside hers, "I''m parading in front of this door!"

    Cloe looked at the door he pointed at and nodded her head in understanding, "So, you''re here to see your wife?" Soren nodded his head in reply while she frowned, "Then why are you standing in front of the door? Don''t tell me you''re wife is not letting you in."

    Soren gave her a bitter look. He wished he would refute that but she was somewhat on point here.

    "Jie didn''t open the door?" asked Cui Xukun.

    "No," replied Soren.

    "Did you call her?"

    "I did," answered Soren. "Her phone is powered off."

    While Cui Xukun pursed his lips, Cloe asked in a gossipy tone, "Is she mad at you? Did you guys fight?"

    Soren red at her and knocked on her head, "Stop spouting nonsense with me. We are very happily married."

    Cloe rubbed her head, "Then why are you locked out?"

    Soren sighed out, "This is her personal space. I don''t have the passcode for the door."

    "Don''t make excuses. If she isn''t mad at you, why isn''t she opening the door for you?"

    "Because she is sleeping," replied Soren with certainty.

    "Huh?" Cloe was dumbfounded by that response.

    Cui Xukunughed awkwardly at her side and told her, "Well, actually, when my sister is sick, she sleeps like a log. No sound can prate through her iron walls." He actually felt quite embarrassed talking about it. For the first time, he felt like his sister was embarrassing him. Well, actually, she had done it way too many times. But it was the first time before his girlfriend!

    "And she forgets to eat as well," added Soren. "I''m just worried that she didn''t eat anything all day. I brought her some chicken soup wolfberry and red dates to nourish her body but she isn''t even opening the door." He then looked at Cui Xukun, "Oh, right. You! Open the door for me."

    Cui Xukun immediately reacted and entered the passcode. As the door opened, Soren rushed in. In just a minute, he came back to say, "I''ll see you some other day, Cloe. For now, have a good day!"

    "What good day? It''s night already," muttered Cloe to herself, and then she shook her head. "Tsk. It was actually difficult to imagine him as a wife spoiling man but now, I can see it."

    Cui Xukun sighed from her side, "You haven''t seen anything yet."

    "What do you mean?"

    Cui Xukun didn''t go into details, "Let''s just say that my brother-inw has worked hard for this marriage."

    Cloe shrugged her shoulders, "He should be working hard. He was the one who insisted on marrying her." It''s not like she knew absolutely nothing about Soren''s love life. They had been in college together and when Soren had fallen for Cui Xuqing, he used to always have a sweet smile on his lips that made him seem adorable and quite foolish.

    She even remembered how tired she was of listening to him bragging about how amazing his girlfriend was. She was actually surprised when Soren told her that he was gonna propose marriage to Cui Xuqing right after graduation. She thought he was rushing into a rtionship but he had said, ''When it''s the right person, it really doesn''t matter.''

    But in fact, it was also because Cui Xuqing was older than him and Soren knew that even if he was willing to wait, she might not be. So, he had to strike when the iron was hot.

    It had to be said that he had never regretted his decision. If anything, he was thankful to his younger self for choosing to seize his chance and get his wife.

    "You''re right," agreed Cui Xukun. "But it''s also because of their age gap. My Jie was always confused about Soren''s feelings because she believed he was too young and his feelings were momentary. She had even warned him that if he got into this marriage so early, he''d regret it one day. But brother-inw was certain that he''d never regret it. He said, ''Qing, you''re so amazing that I''m afraid someone else will snatch you.'' And that''s why he couldn''t wait at all."

    "That''s not what he told me," said Cloe as she opened the door of the apartment. "He said if he waited any longer, she''d realize that she had better options than him."

    They both looked at each other and saw something in each other''s eyes. They both were amused.

    Unknowingly, Cui Xukun had walked inside her apartment and he only realized it after he had already taken off his shoes. He suddenly froze, not knowing what to do. Should he walk inside or should he take a step back from here?

    Noticing his dilemma, Cloe helped him out, "Juste inside already. I wasn''t purely joking when I said I was gonna invite you to my ce."

    Cui Xukun was surprised to hear that and instantly perked up as he stepped inside. "Then, sorry for intruding."

    Cloe looked at his feet and said, "I don''t have extra slippers though. Especially, men slippers." She added, "Just wear your shoes. I''m not that particr about this."

    Cui Xukun said, "I''m okay like this. It''s not that cold either."

    "If you say so," replied Cloe. "Come inside and sit down. Tell me what you want to drink."

    "Just water," replied Cui Xukun. "Water would do."

    "How boring!" said Cloe. "What''s fun about water?" She went to get water for him and said, "How about you see what you want to eat? Let''s order take out."

    "We just ate beforeing back though."

    "It''s been two hours," reminded Cloe. "I''m hungry. Just look what we should eat."

    Seeing her bossy side, Cui Xukun could only nod his head in agreement. How could he dare go against her? If she said they were gonna order take out, what could he possibly do? He could only order!

 Chapter 447 - Standing On Top

    As soon as Zhai Yanjun left, Hyson ran over to Raelle''s ce. By this time, there was no one who wasn''t familiar with Hyson at Shui Vi. Everyone not only knew him but they also knew how important he was. So, there was no one who stopped him, and neither did he have to ask for directions to find the residents of this house.

    "Uncle Shing, how are you this fine evening?"

    Shui Koshing''s face lit up the moment he heard that loud and full-of-life voice of Hyson. He looked over at him and smiled brightly, "I don''t about earlier but this fine evening just got brighter with your presence."

    "I''m ttered to hear that," replied Hyson. "I went fishing with Opa today. You should havee. It was fun. I caught nothing at all. But Opa was awesome."

    Shui Koshing was so amused as he heard Hyson''s bragging tone. Look, he looked so proud even now when he didn''t manage to catch even a single fish. Shui Koshing rubbed his head, "You didn''t even invite me."

    Hyson''s lips parted and the realization dawned on him. He blushed in embarrassment, "That seems to be a blunder on my part. Sorry! I''ll remember to call you next time."

    Shui Koshing''s shoulders shook with his heartyughter as he told him, "It''s alright. I''m not good at fishing too."

    "All the more reason for me to take you along," added Hyson. "I won''t feel as useless as I did alone."

    "Did you just insinuate that I''m useless?"

    "No, I meant we can be useless together," said Hyson. "Do you mind?"

    Shui Koshing pretended to ponder over it before saying, "Nah! I don''t mind at all."

    "Oh, look who is here!" came Shui Xian''s voice as he came to join them with Raelle. "You sure took your time to show up, Fai." He was purely being yful with Hyson.

    "You dared not to show up even when my husband invited you over dinner himself?"

    Hyson looked at Raelle and grinned, "Ellie, don''t be mad. I have my reasons."

    "Mad?" repeated Shui Xian and directed his gaze towards his wife. He stared at her face intently trying to find out something but he couldn''t really tell what Hyson was talking about. What did he mean by Raelle was mad? She looked exactly like she did a moment ago. "I don''t think she is mad."

    "She is," insisted Hyson. "You just can''t tell."

    "I really can''t," agreed Shui Xian.

    "I''m still waiting for your reasons for not showing up," Raelle chimed in with her eyes set on Hyson as she crossed her arms against her chest.

    "We had a guest at home," told Hyson. "I couldn''t possibly leave the guest at home like that, right? That''d be disrespectful. That''s not how we were raised."

    "Who came?" the question was from Shui Xian.

    "Someone I don''t like,"mented Hyson.

    "What would Zhai Yanjune to visit out of nowhere?" questioned Raelle.

    "Eh?" Shui Xian raised his brows at Hyson inquisitively, "You don''t like Zhai Yanjun?" He didn''t even for a moment doubt his wife''s words. Since she was certain Hyson was talking about Zhai Yanjun, he had no reason to confirm it with Hyson again. Hearing it from just one of them was enough. "You seemed to like him yesterday though."

    "That was yesterday," retorted Hyson. "It already passed. Who made the rule that I have to like him today since I liked him yesterday? Isn''t it up to me?"

    Shui Xian felt like he just choked on his words. What the hell? How was he supposed to argue with that?

    "You sure know how to be willful!"mented Shui Xian.

    "He can be willful," said Shui Koshing to his son. "And since he is your one and only brother-inw, you better give into his willfulness."

    Shui Xian stared at his father asking whose side was he on right now? Shui Koshing shrugged his shoulders nonchntly.

    "I''m just stating facts here, son," said Shui Koshing. "Raelle only has Fai. And even she is willing to give in to him. How can you not?" He patted Hyson''s head, "Besides, you should be giving in more since your rtionship with Fai isn''t just because of Raelle. He is your mother''s nephew. In a way, he is your cousin."

    Although they weren''t blood-rted. Far cry from that. Yet, they were still somehow considered cousins.

    "I''m just fine having him as my brother-inw,"mented Shui Xian. There was no doubt that Hyson was his one and only brother-inw. He was the only one in Raelle''s life who fit in the category of a brother. He could tell that even if Raelle had seen Xiang Weimin, he might never be able to take Hyson''s ce.

    In fact, taking Hyson''s ce was an impossible dream. It was even difficult for Xiang Weimin to take the position of a brother in Raelle''s life. He didn''t think there was that much space in his wife''s life. Especially, since she was so particr about who was allowed to get close to her.

    "I feel like my status just got elevated," said Hyson.

    "What? Are you not satisfied with already standing at the top?"

    "I don''t know what you''re talking about, Xian Ge." Taking a pause, he added, "Oh, why did you call me over though? Anything important? You instructed me in the text toe over for sure!"

    "Yes, it''s important," replied Shui Xian. "I wanted to give you something."

    "Me? You want to give me something?" questioned Hyson as if confirming he wasn''t hearing things right now.

    "Yeah, you!"

    "Wow! I''ve just got chills. Why would you give me something?"

    "Oh, don''t you know? If I want to have a good rtionship with my wife, I have to take care of you as well."

    Hyson snorted, "Xian Ge, there is no such thing. Ellie''s good rtionship has nothing to do with me. It''s up to you. In fact, it''s up to you both."

    Shui Xian smiled at his words and hugged his shoulders as he directed towards the basement saying, "I know but that doesn''t mean I can''t do anything for you."

 Chapter 448 - I Swear

    Hyson didn''t know what it was about but he was curious to know. What was Shui Xian up to? He looked over his shoulder at Raelle who was following them silently and his eyes seemed to be probing her for an answer. However, he could tell from her eyes that she also had no idea what Shui Xian was really up to. This just sent Hyson''s curiosity to the peak!

    It was Hyson''s first time toe to the basement and he was certainly surprised to find this home theater setup. The design was minimalistic and dominated by the color ck. However, it gave off a sophisticated and yet somewhat cozy feeling. He looked at everything curiously and finally his eyesnded on the home cinema led wall.

    "Are we watching a movie?" asked Hyson.

    "You can say that," replied Shui Xian mysteriously. He walked over to operate to fiddle with the system.

    Suddenly, the huge wall screen lit up and Hyson''s eyes popped open when he stared at that picture of Shui Xian and Raelle on that big screen. That sea of the flower behind them certainly added another kind of beauty to this picture.

    His lips twitched, "Did you call me over to throw dog food at my face?"

    Shui Xian also looked at his wallpaper and smiled sheepishly, "I just connected it with myptop. But don''t worry, this is not why I called you over." He saw how both Hyson and Raelle just stood there, so he added, "Why don''t you both just sit down? I feel intimidated by the way you''re standing there and looking at me."

    "What is your husband up to?" questioned Hyson as he sat down on thatfy ck sofa.

    Raelle crossed one leg over the other as she stared straight at the LED wall screen saying, "He has a surprise for you."

    "What is it?" asked Hyson.

    "He didn''t tell me but I''d be an idiot if I didn''t manage to figure it out by now,"mented Raelle.

    "So? What is it?" Hyson''s eyes sparkled. He was actually itching to know what this was all about. As Raelle had told Shui Xian, Hyson really didn''t handle surprises well. He loved knowing things as early as Raelle. It''d give him peace of mind.

    Raelle held his head in her hands and turned it towards the screen saying, "See it for yourself."

    Hyson wanted to turn his head back towards Raelle to argue but when he looked at the screen, he went quiet with his eyes wide open.

    An old video yed on the wall screen and he could hear a voice, "Hey! Turn on the camera! My Yue is about to sing for me!"

    "The camera is on," came someone''s reply who seemed really amused. "By the way, why is Yue singing for you when it''s your son''s birthday?"

    An elegant-looking woman faced the camera and retorted, "My Xian is too young to enjoy this performance. So, this one has to be for me. Besides, it''s me who risked my life to give birth to Xian. It''s not like he made an effort."

    Shui Xian shook his head and smiled at his looked at the woman on the screen. That was his mother, Qian Yin. She looked so happy as she looked towards the stage and started shouting like a little girl, "Yue! Do your best!"

    The camera moved towards the person on the screen who covered her face in embarrassment when she heard Qian Yin shouting at her like that. It wasn''t like they were at a concert or a party. Qian Yin didn''t have to shout. It made her stand out even though she was the host of tonight. Everyone looked at her weirdly. After all, it was the kind of behavior frowned upon in their circle.

    However, Qian Yin wasn''t affected at all. She just wanted to encourage Yue Yue who had alwayscked a bit of confidence in life and was too shy for her own good.

    Only when that woman sat down in front of the piano did she lower her hands from her face and give a sweet smile to the audience. Hyson felt his heartbeat slowing down as his eyes were stuck on that figure he saw on the screen. That young girl d in a baby pink gown was his mother. She looked so young, pure, naive, and adorable.

    The shine in her eyes was something Hyson had never seen before. But the thing he was anticipating was her voice. Just as Yue Yue''s lips parted, Hyson held Raelle''s hand so tightly that his veins were visible.

    "This song is dedicated to my dear Yin Jie and my brother-inw, Shui Koshing! I wish you both a hundred years of a happy marriage!"

    Even now, one could see that the most exciting pping wasing from Qian Yin.

    Hyson''s eyes turned soft when he heard that sweet voice. He had always imagined what his mother''s voice would have sounded like but he could never really do it.

    ?? I swear by the moon and the stars in the skies

    And I swear like the shadow that''s by your side

    I see the questions in your eyes

    I know what''s weighing on your mind

    You can be sure I know my part

    ''Cause I''ll stand beside you through the years

    And you''ll only cry those happy tears

    And though I''ll make mistakes, I''ll never break your heart ??

    Hyson felt choked up when he heard her sing so beautifully. He felt like something was stuck in his throat. In his 25 years, this was his very first time listening to his mother''s voice. Wasn''t it quite sad?

    ??And I swear by the moon and the stars in the skies

    I''ll be there

    And I swear like the shadow that''s by your side

    I''ll be there

    For better or worse, ''til death do us part

    I''ll love you with every beat of my heart

    And I swear

    Ooh

    I''ll give you everything I can

    I''ll build your dreams with these two hands

    We''ll hang some memories on the walls

    And when (and when)

    Just the two of us are there

    You won''t have to ask if I still care

    ''Cause as the time turns the page, my love won''t age at all ?? [Song: I Swear, Group: All-4-One, Year of release: 1993]

 Chapter 449 - A Special Gift

    Honestly speaking, Hyson couldn''t possibly define what he was going through right now in words. It just wasn''t possible for him. Whether he was supposed to be happy or sad, it was hard to say. But one thing was certain that he had lost control over his tears at this point as they trickled down his face like a stream.

    On the screen, as soon as the performance ended, Qian Yin rushed over to Yue Yue''s side and hugged her tightly. She even rubbed Yue Yue''s head like she was a kid as sheplimented, "Our Yue is amazing!"

    "Don''t you even feel ashamed?" came Shui Koshing''s voice. "You made Yue perform for you on your son''s birthday."

    "I don''t think Xian minds though," retorted Qian Yin.

    The video ended abruptly as Qian Yin and Shui Koshing started arguing while Yue Yue was left staring between them helplessly.

    However, even when the video had already ended, Hyson seemed to have been stuck at that moment. He couldn''t extract himself from the emotions he was going through. It was rare for him to feel intense emotions. He wasn''t the kind of a person to even lose himself in such emotions either. But he had been losing controltely.

    Firstly, it happened when he met Zhai Kuijun, and now this. But both times, it was actually rted to his own mother.

    Raelle looked down at her hand that he still clutched in his own and patted the back of his hand saying, "Breathe, Hyson."

    There was yet no emotion in Raelle''s voice and yet, Hyson felt like someone pulled him out of that feeling of despair towards warmth. His eyes subconsciously turned to look at Raelle who looked back at him. In her silence, he felt her reassurance. As if she was telling him, ''It''s okay. I''m here.''

    Raelle lifted her hand and wiped his tears, "Do you want to drink some water?" Without waiting for his answer, she picked up the water bottle from the table and uncapped it for him. "Drink it first. You''ll feel better."

    Hyson sniffled as he nodded and drank the water.

    Shui Xian was stunned when he had seen Hyson in that state. He came to his side and said, "You okay? I didn''t mean to hurt you. I thought you''d be happy about it. Didn''t you ask about these recordings from my B¨¤? I''m sorry. I didn''t know, it''d hurt you."

    Seeing him remorseful, Hyson shook his head and offered Shui Xian a smile, "Xian Ge, you didn''t hurt me. I am actually very happy right now. I can''t possibly tell you how happy I am." He sniffled again and went on, "But even if I''m happy to hear my mother''s voice, it''s a fact that I won''t be hearing it ever again. Yes, this recording canst forever. But there is no way for me to hear her calling my name." He held back his tears and added, "In fact, I''m truly thankful to you right now. I always tried to imagine what mum sounded like in my head. But I never managed to do so. At least, now I know what she sounded like. I always wished to hear her voice once. I never even dared to believe that that wish could possiblye true ever. But today, you did it. So, thank you so much for this. This means a lot more to me than you can possibly imagine."

    Shui Xian gave him a hug, "There is no need to say thanks to me. I''m d I could help you realize one of your dreams." He also wiped Hyson''s tears saying, "Now, stop crying. It really doesn''t suit you."

    "Hubby, you also cried watching a movie," Raelle nkly exposed him.

    Shui Xian stared at his wife, "Baby, you''re not supposed to say that!"

    "No? Why?" asked Raelle.

    "You''re supposed to hide your husband''s weakness," reminded Shui Xian.

    "Crying is not a weakness," said Raelle and Hyson simultaneously. Then they looked at each other and nodded.

    "Exactly, it''s not like there is something wrong in crying," added Hyson. "It''s all part of our life. Weugh one day and cry another. Life can''t possibly be the same always. How can you alwaysugh? Isn''t that too torturous? We are humans and we do get tired. We have days when we feel like crying."

    "Those are some deep and beautiful words," stated Shui Xian while his eyes were actually stuck on Raelle.

    "Don''t look at Ellie," said Hyson. "Even she tears up."

    Shui Xian''s eyes widened in surprise when he heard that and shifted closer to Hyson, "Really? My wife can also shed tears?"

    "What? Do you really think she is a robot?" retorted Hyson. "Although she never cried loudly, she did tear up."

    "How? When? Why?" were the questions Shui Xian was most curious about right now. He didn''t even care what he looked like asking this. He just had to find his answers.

    Hyson chuckled at him as he rubbed his eyes that had turned red from crying. "Aren''t you too eager to know?"

    "Can you me me?" questioned Shui Xian as his brows quirked up. He thought he was not to me for having such a reaction. After all, he wished to know everything about his wife. And this was something huge. He never really thought she had a time when she had cried. He remembered when she talked about her kidnappings. She never even shed tears in those arduous times.

    That made him really curious to know when and how and why she cried.

    "Why don''t you ask her?" retorted Hyson. "It''s not like she won''t answer you."

    "But why can''t you just tell me instead?" was Shui Xian''s response. He felt like Hyson was doing it on purpose. He purposely mentioned this to make him lose hisposure like this. But it couldn''t be helped now.

    "Since you have gifted me something special tonight," started Hyson.. "I''ll just tell you."

 Chapter 450 - Crying Spells

    "Tell me," Shui Xian''s eyes blinked.

    Hyson looked at Shui Xian''s eyes with interest. He couldn''t stop himself from just staring. Only now did Hyson seem to understand why Raelle seemed to enjoy just staring at Shui Xian''s face. He had an expressive face. No, it''d be right to say that Shui Xian had expressive eyes. Eyes that seemed to know how tomunicate.

    And for someone like Raelle who had always been curious about learning, he was someone she could never get tired of exploring. He hadyers that intrigued her and she didn''t even realize it.

    Shaking his head in amusement, Hyson told him, "Simple! Just get her wasted. When she is blind drunk, her tears will fall down uncontrobly." Shui Xian opened his eyes wide as he had a strange expression on his face. "That''s the simplest way to see her tear up."

    Shui Xian''s brows furrowed up, "Get her drunk? You mean she tears up when she is drunk?"

    "Yup!"

    "Why?" questioned Shui Xian.

    Hyson shrugged his shoulders nonchntly, "How would I know? Even she doesn''t know it herself. How can anyone else figure it out if she can''t herself?"

    Shui Xian had to agree with that statement. Understanding Raelle''s state of mind was one thing but understanding the thoughts of a drunk person was also not possible.

    While Shui Xian seemed to be lost in his own world, Raelle whispered to Hyson, "What evil n are you cooking up now?"

    "Me? Evil?" Hyson pointed at himself. "How can you even say that? I''m such a cutie."

    "What kind of a cutie you are, you and I both know it best," was Raelle''s response. "Just spill it out. Don''t make me vomit it out of you."

    Hyson gave her a hard stare, "You have really started taking your husband''s side now. I feel lonely."

    "Hyson, don''t be so dramatic," said Raelle.

    "Fine," began Hyson. "I''m not nning anything evil. I told him honestly that you tear up when you''re drunk. Did I lie?"

    "It''s not a lie," said Raelle. "However, there is more to it."

    Hyson sighed out in defeat, "Of course, there is more to it. How can it not be? I only told him that you tear up when you are drunk. But I didn''t tell him how long and how much alcohol it takes to get you drunk." He snickered to himself, "By the time, he managed to get you drunk, he''d pass out first."

    "I thought you like him a lot," said Raelle.

    "I do," replied Hyson.

    "Then why are you doing this to him?"

    "What did I do? I''m just teasing him."

    "Your way of teasing is not healthy," said Raelle. "After all, alcohol is not good for health."

    Hyson rolled his eyes at her and flicked her forehead, "Stay out of it."

    Raelle could only stay out of it once he said it.

    Shui Xian looked at the two of them, "What are you both whispering?"

    "Nothing much," replied Hyson. "I''m just wondering what kind of a drunk are you Xian Ge?"

    "Me?"

    "Yeah! Calm or chaotic?"

    "Somewhere in between," answered Shui Xian uncertainly. He actually didn''t know what kind of a drunk he was. Usually, he''d be calm but he could get chaotic on some days as well. He had even cried for hours once. So, it was hard to say what category he fell in.

    "Then I''d be looking forward to seeing you drunk," told Hyson with a smirk on his lips.

    "I don''t drink that much though," replied Shui Xian.

    "What? You''d be getting Ellie drunk, but you won''t apany her in drinking?"

    "I will," said Shui Xian. "But I don''t think I''ll get drunk that easily."

    "Sure," said Hyson with a knowing smile. How could he not be familiar with Raelle''s alcohol tolerance? Besides, there was more to Raelle''s drunk version than just tearing up. Hyson was looking forward to how Shui Xian would be able to handle it. Also, that could only be possible if Shui Xian managed to stay sober by the time Raelle got drunk. "I should take my leave now."

    "Already?" questioned Shui Xian.

    Hyson held up his phone screen to him, "Have you seen the time, Xian Ge? It''s 10 pm. It''s almost bedtime for Ellie. I won''t disturb you any further. I''ll see youter."

    "You have to join the film crew in two days," reminded Shui Xian.

    "Xian Ge, you''re the big boss. Is it okay for you to know the schedule of a teeny tiny artist like me?"

    Shui Xian red at him, "How can I ignore you?"

    "You better keep it to that limit," said Hyson. "I don''t like getting privileges just because I''m associated with you."

    Shui Xian sighed out heavily, "Do you think just anyone can get privileges? That''s also a talent!"

    "That sounds familiar," said Hyson. "Where have I heard it before?"

    Raelle pushed Hyson out saying, "You should leave already. Stop putting ideas into my husband''s head. Also, I''ll send you this video and others tomorrow."

    Hyson was stunned for just a second before he smiled at her, "Then I''ll be waiting." He waved at them and left. Meanwhile, Raelle turned to look at Shui Xian and saw how his eyes were moving around. Clearly, he was nning to make her drunk.

    She wanted to beat Hyson at this moment. Did he have to put such ideas into her husband''s mind? Now, she had to drink so much. And to be honest, she wasn''t particrly fond of alcohol of any kind. Although the taste never mattered to her, she still didn''t really like alcohol.

    If Raelle could understand what she was feeling, she''d be able to define it as a headache! This was truly a headache for her. But then again, getting drunk or not was all in her own hands.. If she didn''t want to drink, could anyone force her? Could Shui Xian force her? She didn''t think so. Her husband would never!

 Chapter 451 - I Intend To Do So

    Shui Xian was feeling like a whole new world was right before his eyes as his eyes sparkled at Raelle. He found a new way to explore his wife that made him so excited.

    "Hubby, are you that excited about seeing your wife tear up?"

    Shui Xian felt like she just threw a bucket of cold water on his excitement. How did he forget that?

    He held her hand and shook his head trying to exin himself, "Baby, that''s not my intention. I definitely don''t want to see you cry. I''m not even that curious."

    "But you are curious," pointed out Raelle.

    Shui Xianughed awkwardly, "Isn''t it because I never thought you''d be capable of shedding tears?"

    "Huh? Why?" asked Raelle. "I am also human. Why can''t I tear up? Is it against the rules?"

    Shui Xian shook his head at her, "No, that''s not what I meant. It''s just that since you don''t smile or express any other emotion, my mind didn''t even for a second think that you''d also tear up."

    "You don''t think it''s weird that I tear up when I''m drunk?" she questioned him.

    "How is it weird? People do all sorts of things when they are drunk. How can your behavior be questioned? It isn''t even that big of a deal," replied Shui Xian. "If anything, I think it''s actually good."

    "Good?"

    Shui Xian nodded in response, "Our body needs some cleansing. Crying helps out with that. Tears usually wash up a lot of things covering our hearts. Not only our heart but our body also feels light and easy." He rubbed her head, "Besides, isn''t it good that at least your body is honest? Even if you''re not able to express how you feel in words, your body knows well."

    As he was rubbing her hand, he suddenly opened her palm and was startled to look at two red marks. It looked as if something tore through the skin. "What happened?"

    Raelle also noticed it and said, "Oh, it seems Hyson used too much strength to hold my hand. So, his nails might have dug through the skin."

    Shui Xian touched her palm, "It must hurt."

    "This?" Although Raelle didn''t show any expression, he seemed to be able to read her thoughts. She seemed to be asking him whether he was an idiot? "Firstly, I can''t feel it. Second, even if I was able to, don''t you think this tiny thing couldn''t possibly hurt?"

    Shui Xian knocked on her head, "Can''t I be worried?"

    "You should stop worrying about such small matters," said Raelle. "I''m not that fragile. If something really reached the limit of my forbearance, I''ll tear up."

    "Huh?" Shui Xian was taken aback when he heard that.

    "You don''t really think that getting me drunk is the only way to make me cry, right?"

    Actually, Shui Xian really thought it that way. He was suddenly ashamed of his own thoughts. It seemed he was the one with his narrow thinking. How could he possibly assume that she only cried when she was drunk?

    "So, there are other times when you tear up?"

    Raelle nodded in reply, "I have. It''s just as Hyson said, getting me drunk is the simplest way though. But that really isn''t the only way. I do have a higher tolerance for pain than an average person. But that doesn''t mean my body doesn''t react to pain. Even if I don''t, my body would."

    Shui Xian''s brain unconsciously thought back to her kidnapping incident once again and he couldn''t help asking, "Just how high is your pain tolerance." He couldn''t even imagine that she didn''t even cry when she bleed so much. So, he was truly curious now. If her pain tolerance was that high back then, what about now?

    "You worry too much, Hubby,"mented Raelle as she turned to leave.

    Shui Xian followed her and hugged her from behind, "I also didn''t know I was such a worrywart."

    "That means I made you learn something new about yourself?" questioned Raelle.

    "It seems like it," he replied.

    "That means I''m quite useful," said Raelle as she continued to walk but Shui Xian also didn''t stop hugging her. Even if it was difficult to walk this way, he still continued to hug her just like that.

    "That you sure are," he told her.

    "Why don''t you stop hugging me?" asked Raelle. "How am I supposed to walk?"

    "Aren''t we walking just fine?" he retorted.

    Raelle didn''t think they were walking just fine. It slowed down their pace as well.

    "I won''t run," said Raelle while patting his hands around her. "You can really let go."

    "I can''t seem to part from you," he told her dramatically. "Even the distance of one finger hurts my heart. It''s unbearable."

    "The movie we watched didn''t have any such dialogue," said Raelle. "So, where did you learn to say such sappy words?"

    Shui Xian''s lips parted, "Oh? My wife knows that these are sappy words?"

    "You wife is a good learner," replied Raelle. "And I''m learning well these days."

    "Then keep it up," encouraged Shui Xian. "I''d be even happier if you not only understood such sappy words but also started saying them."

    "Your interests are really weird," said Raelle. "No wonder, you fell in love with me."

    "Sweetheart, did you just call yourself, weird?"

    Raelle pulled open his arms and pushed him against the door of their room which they had finally reached with their slow pace. cing her hand on the door, she looked into his eyes, "One should have self-awareness." Then her face drew closer to him as her voice lowered, "Should we begin where we left off earlier?"

    Shui Xian raised his brow at her and it suddenly clicked in his mind what she was talking about. His body instantly heated up while her lips brushed against his ever so slightly.

    "How about going on a ride?" suggested Raelle.

    "Fuck me!" Shui Xian let out the curse in a low voice.

    "I intend to do so," was her response that snapped his self-control.

 Chapter 452 - Jump

    Was Shui Xian feeling speechless because of her words? He must have been used to her being tant to this level. However, he still was feeling speechless. It couldn''t be helped. She was just too honest about her intentions. That''s why she just let him know that she wanted to fuck him!

    It was a first for Shui Xian. And he had never thought there woulde a day when someone would be saying that to him.

    But did Shui Xian have any resistance towards her words? Hell no!

    He couldn''t wait to dig deep inside her. He wanted to bury all of himself inside her hot cave.

    "You keep pushing me to the edge of my sanity," he rasped out.

    Raelle held his lips between her teeth and tugged gently. She seemed like she was teasing him. Or more like that tug meant to pull him down from that edge of sanity.

    "Hmm," she hummed along with him as if agreeing to his statement. "If this sanity is holding you back, why don''t you just make that jump?" she suggested in her low voice as her warm breath caressed his neck. "I don''t think insanity looks as bad from down here."

    Shui Xian''s Adam''s apple bobbed up and down. He licked his dry lips as the fierce fire in his eyes burned hotter and hotter. His cold fingers rubbed the top of her ear before his finger ran from the back of her ear to her corbone and lingered there for a moment.

    "Do you think I had control over myself?" he asked in his husky voice. Slowly, his finger crawled down to her waist. He put his palm against her back and leisurely rubbed her back up and down sensually.

    Then his arm was wrapped around her waist and he pulled her making the softness of her body bump into his hard chest. As his lips crashed against her ears, he added, "I couldn''t resist you from the moment you walked into my life."

    He pushed her body up and she instinctively wrapped her legs around his waist. As she hugged his neck, he exchanged their positions with Raelle''s back against the door. He stared into her eyes for a brief moment before he pushed his lips against hers and started moving.

    There was nothing gentle about this kiss. Because his feelings had hit him too intensely tonight. She was teasing him like that, how could he keep it all together? Feeling how she was actively reciprocating and even seemed a little too impatient, he couldn''t help smiling.

    Ah! This woman really came into his life to drive him absolutely crazy!

    Feeling his throbbing manhood, he walked over to the bed and lied her down on her back. Raelle sat up and pulled her shirt over her head. She unsped her bra and threw it away. Seeing how she undressed, Shui Xian''s smile didn''t leave his lips as he also undressed.

    When all she wore was underwear, he helped her pull it down and chuckled, "I wouldn''t even have to do anything. You''re all ready to take me in." After all, she was already so wet. Her underwear was wet and her juices were flowing down the inside of her thighs. The sight was too hot and tempting.

    "Then how about I do take you in?" Raelle pulled him on the bed and sat on his stomach.

    His hard manhood was pressing against the back of her butt. She moved her hips and as the bouncy skin of her butt rubbed against his manhood making him groan uncontrobly.

    Shui Xian pinched her nipple making her body arch as he said, "Stop ying around."

    "Oh," responded Raelle.

    She held his manhood in her soft hand making him close his eyes and bit down on his lip. The sensation was messing with his mind and he felt like he was gonnae. But he had to hold himself back. He couldn''t lose his dignity in her hands.

    She brought the tip of his manhood to the entrance of her core and pushed it in. As the tip went inside of her, she ced her hands on his chest to take a breath and slowly sat down on him, engulfing every single part of him.

    This was the first time she tried this position so it took her a moment to adjust. However, she could instantly tell that like this, he reached way deeper than before. It was like he was reaching her womb.

    Shui Xian rubbed his hands on her arms up and down slowly as if he was encouraging her. All the while, he felt like he wanted to thrust hard and fast right now. Even he could feel how deep inside he was. It was driving him insane. But he held his urges back and waited for her to take her time and move on her own.

    Since she was the one taking the lead, he''d let her do whatever she wanted to.

    And she certainly didn''t disappoint him as she slowly started moving up and down. But soon, her movement became fast. Shui Xian was left staring at her with his eyes sparkling with fascination. How could he not be fascinated by this woman?

    She was a bold person and anyone would know that about her. But the boldness she showed around him was entirely a different matter. The way she seemed to be controlling his desire for her was maddening and like sweet torture.

    She definitely knew what she wanted from him and even if she didn''t know how to ask for it. She definitely knew how to take it from him. Every single time he had sex with her was like a new experience since he''d get to see a different her. Tonight was no different. Tonight, he saw lust in her eyes that seemed to be calling for him.. And he was too defenseless against that lust as he wanted to just indulge and get drowned into this lust with her.

 Chapter 453 - Pampering

    Hyson had a pleasant dream tonight. He dreamt that his mother had called out his name. He was so happy to hear her calling him out that he had teared up. And when his eyes opened, he realized that he had indeed teared up.

    He touched his wet face with his hand and frowned. This was definitely not the kind of a wet dream he had heard about. And yes, he was being sarcastic.

    However, speaking of wet dreams, Hyson never experienced them in his life. Usually, teenagers going through puberty would often have wet dreams but Hyson never had one. He was just that sexually apathetic. Being attracted to someone was one thing.

    Even his psychologist had said that even asexual people could leave a normal life. Have a healthy sexual life and even get married and have kids. But his problem was that he was definitely not even interested in his sex life. In fact, he could be considered a little averse to it as well.

    Wiping his tears, he stepped down from his bed and looked out the French windows in his room. He slowly walked up to the French windows and opened the door to the balcony. It seemed he woke up too early since even the sun hadn''t risen yet. But he didn''t go back to sleep again.

    Perhaps he''d have been able to hear his mother calling him again in his dream if he went back to sleep but what did it matter? Wasn''t it just a dream anyway? He never had the habit of deceiving himself. Rather than deceiving himself with that dream, he liked to stay in this reality.

    He stepped over to the chair ced on the balcony and sat downfortably. There was nothing to do this early in the morning anyway. So, he nkly kept staring at the sky waiting for the sun. There was nothing on his mind. His mind was just as nk as his eyes right now. The silence that dominated this time of the day was quite serene andforting. Even the cold breeze of this early morning was fresh and made him rx his mind.

    After ten minutes, he went back inside the room and made his bed. Then he walked into the bathroom and stared at his reflection in the mirror. The person in the mirror had slightly red eyes, presumably from crying. The bird''s nest on his head was giving him an unruly look. He looked like a delinquent.

    He mussed his own hair before sighing out. Taking a shower, he walked out of the steam-filled bathroom with only a towel wrapped around his waist. He looked through his clothes, trying to choose an outfit for the day. First, he had to think about whether he nned to go out today? The answer was no. So, he settled for a cotton jersey t-shirt paired with tapered sweatpants.

    He went down and found that everyone was already awake at home. The sun was still to rise but the people of this house were already bustling about. Mu Chenyan could be found in the hallway instructing the house help about the things needed taking care for the day. When she saw Hysoning down from the stairs, she couldn''t help looking at her watch.

    It wasn''t because Hyson had a habit of sleeping in. He would wake up early most of the days but he loved toze around on his bed for hours. Besides, even if he woke up early, today he was especially early that made her brows jump up in surprise.

    "Fai, you didn''t sleep well?" inquired Mu Chenyan in concern as she waved off the house help to get busy with their own stuff. She walked up to Hyson''s side and looked at him worriedly, especially when she noticed his slightlyy red eyes. "What happened to your eyes? Did you cry?"

    "I had a nightmare," he told her. "It made me tear up." He could have told her a lie like he rubbed his eyes or something went into his eyes. But he knew better than to do that. Firstly, he wasn''t taught how to lie. Second, Mu Chenyan was able to catch anyone''s lie in a blink of an eye. She just had that peculiar talent.

    Mu Chenyan frowned at him, "What kind of a nightmare was it?"

    "Something thatan nevere true," he answered honestly. "But why are you up so early? You went to sleep sote."

    "I wake up around this time," replied Mu Chenyan.

    "Really?" Hyson looked at her strangely.

    Mu Chenyan patted his head, "Silly, I''m old now. Old people can''t sleep like you young ones. There is only so much sleep I can get." She pursed her lips and added, "Why didn''t you dry your hair? Do you want to get a headache?"

    "I dried my hair," said Hyson. "But with a towel."

    Mu Chenyan shook her head as she pulled him along and called, "Someone get me a hair dryer."

    "I''m fine," said Hyson.

    "No," was Mu Chenyan''s response. "What if you caught a cold? Even though we are already in summer, that doesn''t mean people can''t catch a cold in this weather. You have to be careful. I don''t wanna see you in an hospital again."

    When she said it like that, Hyson couldn''t even refuse anymore. He let her pull him around and made him sit down obediently before she plugged in the hair dryer and helped him drying his hair. As the warm air from the hair dryer touched his scalp, Hyson felt like a warmth was seeping into his body and heart as well.

    To be honest, whenever he was around Mu Chenyan, he really felt like a spoiled prince. If she could, she''d put the whole world at his feet. She was just that crazily indulgent towards the people she loved. Whether it was Raelle or he, Mu Chenyan loved them both a lot.. It was miracle how these two didn''t actually turn into spoiled brats with all her pampering.

 Chapter 454 - Little Arrogant

    "You''re treating me like a little kid again,"mented Hyson with a smile on his lips.

    "You are our family''s little kid," replied Mu Chenyan. "It won''t be changing anytime soon. It''s hard for me to see Raelle as a little kid even when she was a kid. But it''d be different with you. I can feel the satisfaction of raising a cute little bunny with you."

    "So, I''m used for your amusement?" Hyson gasped at her.

    Mu Chenyan hit his head gently, "Shut up! I don like people questioning my intentions."

    Hyson smiled at her and nodded. Then he recalled something and stood up, "I''ll be right back." As he ran past his mother who wasing downstairs, he didn''t even stop to say hello.

    Yue Yue looked at his receding figure and frowned before looking at Mu Chenyan, ''What''s up with him? And why is he awake so early in the morning?'' she was more baffled to see her son awake at this time rather than his odd behavior of running off like that.

    "He had a nightmare and couldn''t seem to sleep," told Mu Chenyan.

    ''A nightmare?'' Yue Yue''s frown deepened. ''How can he be bothered by nightmares at this age?''

    Mu Chenyan looked deeply at her, "Age has nothing to do with the fears we keep in our hearts. If anything, with age, those fears be a part of us."

    It didn''t take long for Hyson to ran back down but this time he carried something in his hands. He passed one shopping bag to Mu Chenyan and the other to his mother saying, "Ellie sent these for you two. Last night, I didn''t find you two when I came back from her ce."

    He had to say, his assumption had turned out to be true in the end. Raelle did use him as an errand boy. She had passed these shopping bags to the housekeeper and had asked him to give it to Hyson when he was leaving.

    Both thedies opened their gifts and shook their heads.

    ''Why is she wasting money over these again?''

    Hyson looked at his mother saying, "If there is anyone who has the right to waste money, that''s Ellie. Don''t worry about her. This much money is gonna be back in her bank ount in the blink of an eye. Don''t forget that she never takes a loss."

    Obviously, both thedies knew that as well and they were also happy to receive these gifts from Raelle. It just showed that no matter how far she was, she''d always have them in her heart. It was her way of letting them know that she never forgets them. And these gestures were a lot more touching than any words.

    Yue Yue knocked on Hyson''s head, ''Learn something from her. She always keeps me in her heart. What about you?''

    "Why are youparing her with me?" retorted Hyson as he rubbed his head. "She is rich. I''m a pitiful little bunny. How can we be the same? How can our way of showing love be the same?"

    Mu Chenyan chuckled at his response, "Aiyo, Yue! Stop nagging. Our Fai doesn''t need to buy all these things. If he did, I''ll get a headache. I already have a headache with all the things Elle has got me. I don''t even wear jewelry all that much. It''s still good for you who likes beautiful things."

    ''I do like beautiful things,'' was Yue Yue''s response. ''As a woman, how can one not care about how one looks? It''s every woman''s dream to look beautiful.''

    Mu Chenyan patted her shoulder as if encouraging her, "Yes, yes, you keep making your dreamse true. Leave me out of it."

    Yue Yue red at her, ''If you won''t use this stuff, it''d hurt Raelle''s feelings.''

    Mu Chenyan sighed out, "It''s not like I didn''t try using this stuff. I wore those small diamond studs she once got me but I''m a rough person. I don''t even know where I lost one of those. Isn''t it better for me to keep them safe rather than losing them left and right?"

    ''Careless!''

    "Thanks for thepliment!" responded Mu Chenyan happily, not feeling bad about herment at all. There was nothing to feel bad about, although she seemed like a responsible and careful person, she had her movements of carelessness. Especially with things like jewelry and essories. At most, she''d use this stuff if there was an event but then again, she rarely attended such things.

    As Yue Yue threw her a look, she left to do her own stuff leaving Mu Chenyan standing with Hyson.

    "Fai, thank you for this!"

    "Why are you saying thanks to me? I didn''t buy it," replied Hyson.

    "But you delivered it to me," said Mu Chenyan. "I should give you credit where it''s due."

    "I don''t think I deserve that credit though," he suddenly felt a bit embarrassed.

    Mu Chenyan fixed his hair that she dried earlier as she told him, "Don''t let your nightmares intimidate you. Your godmother doesn''t like tears in your eyes. So, next time, call me out! I''ll fight all the monsters in your nightmares."

    Hyson ended upughing out loud at her words. He felt like she was really looking at him like he was a little kid. Why else would she say something like that? It truly amused him but also warmed his heart.

    "If you keep loving me this much," started Hyson. "I might be a little arrogant."

    "It''s okay," replied Mu Chenyan as she squeezed his cheeks. "I can afford your arrogance. Have faith in your godmother. I was quite a legend in my days."

    Hyson opened his arms and hugged her tightly. Taking in her scent, he closed his eyes briefly. She smelled like something sweet that he couldn''t seem to name. It was her signature scent for as long as he could remember. And it was her signature hug as well which always seemed to make his heart rx and remind him that he wasn''t alone.. She was there to protect him.

 Chapter 455 - Sleepy

    As her biological clock struck, Raelle''s eyes opened right on her usual time. As always, thest night''s activities had not managed to make her feel like she needed to sleep in. In fact, the concept of sleeping in had never even existed in her life.

    She was still wrapped in Shui Xian''s arms. She didn''t know how he never seemed to get tired of holding her in his arms every single night. She tilted her head up to look at his sleeping face. His eyes were closed, she could hear his calming breath, she could even feel his strong heartbeat under her hand.

    She stared at his long eyshes for a minute too long before she attempted to get up. The point was, her attempt failed since Shui Xian''s arms tightened around her and he pulled her body back down. This time, her upper body fell on him. Making her nose bump into his chin slightly.

    "If you''re awake, let me go," said Raelle.

    "Let''s just stay in bed for a while," suggested in his groggy voice. His eyes were still closed but he had a satisfied smile on his lips. "We can cuddle."

    "No," replied Raelle straightforwardly.

    His eyes opened into a slit as he looked at her face and said, "Why not? Darling, don''t you thinkst night was... intense?"

    "So?"

    "So, you should give your body some recovering time after such a heavy exercise," he tried to convince her.

    "I''m very healthy," she told him. "My body doesn''t need such a long recovering time."

    She had a habit of exercising since she was young, she also had healthy habits in life. Whether it was her meals or lifestyle, there wasn''t one single thing unhealthy about it. And that''s why she definitely didn''t think her body was as weak after sex. Even if she couldn''t describe it, if she felt some difort, she''d know it.

    However, the only difort she had was right after the first time they had sex. Later on, it was just normal.

    Shui Xian opened his eyes to stare at her, "Why is it so difficult to make youze around for a while?"

    "Waste of time," she replied. "And time is money."

    "Then can I pay you toze around?" he asked.

    "Sure," agreed Raelle immediately. "How much are you paying?"

    Shui Xian sighed out, "Sweetheart, all my money is yours. All of me is yours."

    Raelle nodded her head, "That''s true. Then you''re paying me, my own money? I don''t think that''s a profitable deal for me."

    Shui Xian looked helpless as he said, "Then how about you do something fun?"

    "What fun?"

    His hand brushed against her back sensually, "What we didst night was fun?"

    "Fun!" she answered.

    Shui Xian smiled, "Then..."

    Raelle kissed his cheek and sat up, "Don''t even think about it. No matter how fun it was, currently, it''s not time for it."

    "Why does my wife have to live such a disciplined life?" hemented to himself.

    "I''m going to change and go for a run," told Raelle.

    "I''m going to go back to sleep," said Shui Xian. He really couldn''t get up and apany her today. He just couldn''t. Last night was too crazy. Too crazy!

    He wasn''tining though. He loved it. And it wasn''t like he had weak stamina, it was just that he was feeling toozy today. Especially when he thought about how he had to go to work. How sad!

    He couldn''t believe he hade to a point where he''d have hated going to the office.

    Raelle didn''t insist on taking him with her. She never asked him to follow him before. He did so on his own. And today he didn''t want to, so she had nothing to say about it. She washed her face, changed into a tracksuit, and left.

    Before leaving, she turned her head to look at Shui Xian who had his eyes closed even now. With his hugging the nket, he seemed really cute. Raelle didn''t even realize how her eyes seemed to be drawn to him.

    As soon as she closed the door, Shui Xian''s eyes opened and he groaned. That warm beauty he held at night was gone, and it seemed she took his sleep with her as well. What kind of talent was that?

    However, that didn''t mean he got out of bed. He was still buried in his cozy nket with his eyes closed.

    And when Raelle came back, she found him just like that. She opened the door of the bathroom but before she stepped inside, she called out, "Xian!"

    "Hm?" he respondedzily.

    "Are you still sleepy?" she asked.

    "Yup!" he replied.

    "What a pity," was her response. "I was hoping you''d help scrub my back but you look really sleepy."

    Shui Xian threw his nket away and got up in a hurry, "I''ll do it!"

    "Didn''t you say you''re sleepy?" reminded Raelle.

    "What is sleep? Can you eat it?" he shot back.

    "Then you can eat me?"

    Shui Xian stepped closer to her and smirked, "I can gobble you up!"

    "Oh?"

    Shui Xian hugged her waist and stepped inside the bathroom with her saying, "Baby, you need to have faith in me. I''ll rub your back nicely!"

    "I''m not in the mood to let you rub my back anymore," said Raelle.

    "Well, it''s not in your hands anymore," he retorted as he gave her a rascally smile.

    See? It was that easy to get him worked up. He was eager to cling to her all the time. She didn''t even have to do much. Just a minute ago, he wanted toze around but one word from her and he was out and about, looking so excited.

    As Shui Xian turned on the hot water, he could only sigh to himself. He was really easy. What a disappointment he was. It seemed his father saw through him correctly, he was a wife ve.. If she said right, he definitely won''t say left.

 Chapter 456 - Empty

    Shui Xian was grinning from ear to ear when he came out of the bathroom, after taking his steamy shower with his wife. He went in to rub her ear but definitely rubbed a lot more interesting spots. He was in such a bright mood that he even subconsciously started humming out a tune.

    It''s been years and today, this early in the morning he felt an itch. He really wanted to write a song. A song just for his wife. His creative mind was overflowing with words that he wanted to pen down just for her. It''s been a long while since he hadn''t been struck with such inspiration.

    Just as he was buttoning up his shirt, something suddenly came to his mind, "Wifey, why do I suddenly feel like you just yed me?"

    Raelle stood in front of the mirror as she plugged in the hairdryer and looked at his reflection in the mirror, "Really?"

    Shui Xian nodded certainly. He wasn''t lying. He just felt like his wife used that tactic to shoo away hisziness. He could swear on this fact!

    "Fuck! You really yed me!"

    Raellezily nced at him before turning back to dry her hair as she asked, "Are you a musical instrument? How can I y you? You aren''t even a game that I could y."

    "Don''t go round and round with your eloquent words just because you don''t know how to lie," retorted Shui Xian. "I already figured your trick. There is no need to fool me." He came to stand behind her and held her gaze through the mirror as he went on, "Besides, it''s not like I mind being yed by you. In fact, in the future, let''s y even more."

    "Why do I think sometimes you act like Coco?" Shui Xian''s eyes widened slightly when he heard her question. "Just a tiny thing makes you so happy that you keep hovering around me."

    "Dog is my spirit animal," said Shui Xian. "That''s why you''d never have to doubt my loyalty. And that''s one of the reasons I think we are a perfect match made in heaven."

    What Raelle valued was loyalty and there was no one who could doubt Shui Xian''s loyalty towards Raelle. Not just to Raelle, he had always been sincere and loyal to everyone close to him. So, Raelle wasn''tpletely wrong about him. He did act like Coco.

    "Spirit animal?" questioned Raelle. "How interesting!" As Raelle brushed her hair, she continued to stare at herself in the mirror.

    "Baby, I know you''re beautiful," came Shui Xian''s voice from behind her. "You don''t have to be dazzled by your own beauty." He had a hint of a smile in the way he spoke.

    "I''m not dazzled by my own beauty," replied Raelle. "It''s just that I think I need a haircut."

    Shui Xian looked at her sleek ck hair that seemed to be shining after brushing. Her hair wasn''t that long. But they weren''t short either. "I think the length is alright." He said while ying with the ends of her hair.

    "No, I think it''s the right time for a haircut," Raelle said again.

    "Okay, if you think so," replied Shui Xian. "Do you want me to get you an appointment? No, wait! You have the ever-awesome, Cloe by your side. She can help you with that."

    Raelle gave him a look, "I don''t go to salons."

    "What?"

    "Hubby, are you forgetting that I don''t like people touching me?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian did remember that. He just never really thought that. "Then how... No, what have you been doing?" he asked incredulously. "Don''t tell me you''re gonna cut your hair on your own."

    Raelle shook her head, "No, Yanyan will do it."

    Shui Xian was dumbstruck to hear that. "Ah! How can I forget about Yanyan? But can she do it?"

    "Since I was a baby she had been the one doing it," told Raelle.

    "Is she good at it?" he couldn''t help asking her.

    "Good," answered Raelle. "When I was young, she used to make mistakes like making my hair shorter than her intention. But she diligently learned and now, she''s a professional."

    "What else did you make her learn?"

    "A lot of things," replied Raelle. There was no doubt that Raelle had been a kid difficult to raise. Not because she was naughty but because of her particrity about certain things. "She can be a hairstylist, a makeup artist, personal dentist, dance teacher, martial arts teacher, or a doctor. You can say she has a wide variety of skills just because of me."

    "Did you just say a dentist?"

    Raelle nodded her head, "When I was six, one of my teeth were hurting. She took me to the dentist but I was so ufortable with a stranger digging into my mouth that she had to hold my hand throughout the whole process. Later on, she started doing research on dentistry."

    Shui Xian looked so helpless when he heard that. He felt a sudden pity for Mu Chenyan. But more than that, his admiration for her increased. He really understood in the real sense what Mu Chenyan meant when she said that Raelle didn''t know how to take of her personal day-to-day life.

    "Yanyan really did a lot for you,"mented Shui Xian.

    "True," agreed Raelle without any hesitation. She agreed with that statement more than anyone. The things she mentioned didn''t evene close to how much Mu Chenyan did for her. Seemingly, she had been staying home for over two decades but no one could possibly know that during all that time, Mu Chenyan had actually acquired a wide variety of skills just because she wanted to make Raelle feelfortable.

    There was a time when Grandfather Xiang asked Mu Chenyan to stop going overboard. He said if she allowed Raelle toe in contact with people, she might get over her difort. But Mu Chenyan didn''t think so. ording to her, if she could fix it herself, she had no reason to make Raelle suffer even just a tiny bit.

    Even if Raelle couldn''t voice out her feelings, it didn''t mean Mu Chenyan would not know what she liked or disliked. And it wasn''t difficult for Mu Chenyan to pick up her skills. She came from a family of military doctors. The study of dentistry wasn''t that big of a deal. It was actually when it came to cutting her hair that took Mu Chenyan years to perfect.

    "She has done a lot more than just giving me all her youth," said Raelle. "So, even if I offer my heart to her, I won''t ever be able toe close to what she did for me. The best I can do is respect her. And you should do as well."

    Shui Xian smiled, "I already respect her. But from now, my admiration has reached a new peak." It was actually easy to see what kind of a status Mu Chenyan had in Raelle''s life.

    In fact, he suddenly had a thought that he should be really thankful to Mu Chenyan who raised Raelle in this way. Just to make Raelle feelfortable, she really went overboard. But it showed how much she loved Raelle. And if not for her, it was hard to say if Raelle was gonna be here today or not.

    "It''s about a month away from mother''s day," Shui Xian thought out loud. "I''m gonna bake a cake for Yanyan to thank her for raising my wife."

    "You''re nning far ahead," said Raelle when she heard him.

    "I don''t think it''s that far ahead," said Shui Xian. "Anyway, just a cake might not even be enough. She gave me her precious Elle, I have to show some sincerity." Then he thought of something and chuckled, "It''s no wonder that she looks so displeased when she sees me. She is like an aggrieved mother hen who thinks I stole her precious chick."

    "I''m not a chick," retorted Raelle.

    Shui Xian tapped on her nose lovingly, "Okay. You''re not a chick but Yanyan is certainly a mother hen." He shook his head as he thought to himself, ''For someone who never even wanted to be in a rtionship, she certainly has way too much motherly love.'' And it seemed Mu Chenyan was just born with such maternal instincts.

    If her motherly love couldn''t find an outlet towards Raelle, she''d find Hyson to shower him with all her love. At the end of the day, she just made these two her entire world. And that''s why it was startling for Mu Chenyan when Grandfather Xiang asked her to go out and get a life.

    Her life had been revolving around Raelle for over two decades and suddenly she was asked to change her habit. How could she do it? Habits had always been dangerous.. And it became more dangerous for Mu Chenyan who suddenly lost the direction of her life and felt empty.

 Chapter 457 - Bizarre Things

    *Thud!*

    Xiang Wai immediately pinned down her father on the ground and grinned, "Daddy, how about you give up?"

    Xiang Hulin looked at that frivolous smile on her lips and that glint in her eyes. He tapped his hand on the ground and announced, "Fine, I lost! Get up now!"

    "Yes!" Xiang Wai threw a fist in the air to celebrate her victory. Suddenly, she thought of something and looked at her father suspiciously, "You didn''t deliberately go easy on me, did you?"

    Xiang Hulin patted off the dust from his clothes as he looked at her helplessly. "I ain''t as young as you are. I can''t possibly win from you at my age."

    "That sounds... awful!"

    Xiang Hulin chuckled at her reaction, "Isn''t it enough that you won? What''s with that reaction? Are you disdaining your father for being old now?"

    "That''s not what I meant," she ran a hand through her hair as she spoke sheepishly.

    "And if you''re that eager to prove yourself, go and have a duel with your brother," suggested Xiang Hulin.

    Xiang Wai sighed out heavily, "That''s a good idea. But... Firstly, he is a patient for now. And second, I can''t seem to beat him."

    "He is your elder brother," started Xiang Hulin. "He needs to have some dignity as your elder brother." He looked at the sun that just started peeking out from the distant sky and said, "Let''s go inside. Freshen up. I''ll see you at breakfast."

    Xiang Wai''s body straightened up like a rod and she gave him a proper salute saying, "Roger that, General!"

    "Stop it," was the only thing Xiang Hulin said as he walked inside the house from the sparring area.

    He was just nning on taking a walk in the early morning when he found Xiang Wai in the courtyard practicing. And seeing him, she just had to ask for a duel. He rubbed his waist as he thought of how she threw him on the ground. She really had no mercy or sympathy for her old father''s old bones.

    But he''d obviously not go andin about such a thing to her.

    Xiang Wai spent the next five minutes just looking at the birds flying in the sky as she stood silently in the courtyard. Then she took a deep breath before she also went to take a shower. She was covered in dust and sweat by now. Even if her father was old, he was still not easy to deal with. As they say, old ginger is spicier. Clearly, the statement is true. Even Xiang Hulin was old, that didn''t mean it was that easy to tackle his moves.

    And even if she didn''t want to agree with it, she had to agree that her father had gone easy on her. He really thought she was that gullible. How could she not notice it? She wasn''t blind, to begin with. However, it was still good to have this sparring session with him. It made her let loose.

    After taking a shower, she picked up any random pants and paired them with any random shirt. Or more like, she picked whatever came in front of her eyes first. Obviously, she wasn''t that particr about how she looked. There was no such thing as a fashion sense in her life.

    She towel-dried her short hair as she stood in front of the mirror. Even she had to say that she didn''t look like a very reliable person at first sight even if she was already a Major! It had less to do with her how she presented herself and more to do with that look in her eyes. There was that rebellious spirit within her that could never appeal to the older generation.

    And that could also be the reason she was not so popr with elders.

    Combing her hair back, she ran downstairs for breakfast. As she came, she found her father waiting for her there. She took a seat opposite him and waited for the breakfast to serve.

    "Don''t always be so careless about yourself," said Xiang Hulin.

    "What do you mean, Papa?" she raised her brows at him in question. She clearly didn''t understand what he meant.

    "I know you don''t like dressing up," said Xiang Hulin. "But at least, watch what you''re wearing." He pointed at her shirt, "You wore it the other way around."

    Only then did Xiang Wai look down and notice that he was right. The supposed front of the shirt was now at her back. Wow! Marvelous! She didn''t even notice that.

    Shrugging her shoulders, she picked up her chopsticks and said, "It''s alright. All sorts of bizarre things are called fashion in this age and day. I''m sure people won''t mind this tiny mistake of mine."

    Xiang Hulin shook his head at her as he closed his eyes briefly. Then he put the newspaper down and said, "Let''s eat now."

    Xiang Wai looked down at the appetizing bowl of rice noodles and salivated. Boiled rice noodles, fried peanuts, thin slices of meat, those green chopped scallions, pickled mustard, and the cooking auntie even added a couple of boiled eggs for her. This noodle bowl was certainly a lively affair. Just the way it looked was enough to make anyone hungry. Especially someone like Xiang Wai who had no such thing as called resistance towards good food.

    Xiang Hulin noticed how his daughter''s eyes seemed to light up at the sight of her bowl of noodles. This glutton was really something else! She could forget about anything and everything once the food was in her sight.

    As he picked up his chopsticks to eat, he heard the slurping sounding from Xiang Wai. His lips curled up slightly. She was slurping down the noodles without a care in the world and looked like a hamster with her cheeks filled.. Just from looking at her eating so heartily, he also started feeling hungry and didn''t dy in picking up noodles with his chopsticks to take a bite.

 Chapter 458 - Take Care

    "Do you think I eat inelegantly?" asked Xiang Wai as she suddenly looked up at Xiang Hulin who sat opposite her. Her face was devoid of any of her teasing manner or that mischievous glint that could be found in her eyes all the time. She was asking in all seriousness.

    "Definitely not," answered Xiang Hulin certainly. "Did someone say something to you?"

    Xiang Wai gave him a look, "With a father like you around, I don''t think there is anyone who dares to say anything to me."

    "Don''t think so much about it then," remarked Xiang Hulin. "Also, don''t you know there is an old belief that eating noodles with creating a ''slurping'' sound brings good luck to anyone who eats it?"

    "I actually wasn''t talking about me slurping on my noodles," muttered Xiang Wai.

    "When did my daughter who doesn''t even take wind and rain seriously, start thinking about people''s opinion?"

    Xiang Wai''s eyes widened slightly when she heard that. That''s true. She had never feared what others had to say. Why was she suddenly thinking about this bullshit? She really had lost her mind!

    "Besides, your grandma loved the way you eat," told Xiang Hulin. Xiang Wai''s body stiffened slightly when she heard that. "You grew up so much but you eat the same as back then. And mom used to say that if there is anyone in the family who knows how to appreciate food, that''s our family''s Wai."

    "Papa, are you missing grandma?" asked Xiang Wai.

    Xiang Hulin''s eyes lowered, "I am." He didn''t deny her words. He was indeed missing his mother. Especially when he saw his daughter eating like that. He couldn''t help recalling those moments.

    And then they finished their meal in silence. It was only when Xiang Wai was rubbing her tummy when Xiang Hulin asked in amusement, "Is there space for more?"

    "There is," she answered, looking aggrieved.

    "Then drink some soymilk," suggested Xiang Hulin.

    Xiang Wai nodded her head and took the soymilk to drink. She had seen girls eating a bird''s portion but she couldn''t understand them. If she started eating like them, she''d faint even before the first drill of the day ended. Soldiers usually have a bigger appetite, to begin with, and she was no exception.

    "What are your ns for the day?" inquired Xiang Hulin.

    She looked at her watch and answered, "I have a flight to catch in about two hours from now."

    "You''re going back to Kia City or the Capital?"

    "I''m going to Kia City," replied Xiang Wai. "Ge is there and currently my team is also at the Kia District Base."

    Xiang Hulin didn''t ask her why she was leaving so soon when she only came yesterday morning. She neither asked her to stay. He already knew his daughter. "You are really like wind, drifting around."

    Xiang Wai chuckled and rubbed her nose awkwardly, "It''s not that I don''t want to stay. It''s just that you have to go to work. I will be alone at home even if I stayed and I am not that familiar with the city as well. All my acquaintances at the base have already transferred elsewhere."

    "I understand," he gave her a reassuring smile. "You don''t have to exin it all to me. Just go back but make sure to keep an eye on your brother if you can."

    "Oh, you can leave that to me," replied Xiang Wai. "I''ll make sure that he is recovering well."

    Xiang Hulin stood up to leave but walked to her side. He patted her head lovingly and said, "Make sure to take care of yourself as well. Don''t get injured. Don''t be so impulsive as well."

    "I''ll try," she responded.

    Xiang Hulin pinched her nose, "I don''t care if you''re impulsive. I can deal with the consequences for you. But be serious about your health. As I said, no injuries."

    "I recover fast," she retorted stubbornly.

    "I also used to say that when I was young but now, I have to suffer from the seque. And let me tell you, the feeling isn''t all that good."

    "I understand," she answered.

    He bent down and kissed the top of her head, "I''m leaving now. I''ll try to find some time to visit you."

    After he left, Xiang Wai finished her ss of soymilk and stood up. Going back to her room, she looked for the backpack she carried here yesterday and rummaged through it. Finding her cellphone, she frowned and plugged it on charging.

    As soon as the phone turned on, she found a lot of notifications. 90 percent of the calls were from her brother. And that was to be expected. In the end, he even sent a text that read, "How many times do I have to tell you to charge your phone and carry it around with you?!"

    Xiang Wai pursed her lips and scratched the tip of her nose. It was still her brother who knew her habits best. Just because she didn''t pick up his calls, he knew what was up with her. She thought this ability was also really scary.

    The only other person who had tried to call her was her mother. And seeing that missed call, even Xiang Wai forgot how to process it for a minute. She rubbed her eyes and looked at the screen again carefully, "Am I seeing things?" she asked herself but seeing how the name didn''t change in front of her, her eyes narrowed down. "What has gotten into her all of a sudden?"

    For the next couple of minutes, Xiang Wai was lost in her thoughts as she tried to make a decision. Whether to call her brother first or her mother? It seemed she''d have to call her mother first.

    Sighing out, she clicked on the caller id and put the phone against her ear. She was waiting to see what made her mother actually think about her daughter all of a sudden.. After all, it wasn''t every day she''d get such a privilege.

 Chapter 459 - It Is Over

    "How was the experience?"

    Xiang Weimin looked up from the book he was engrossed in and found Zhai Kuijun walking to his side. He came to sit on the rattan chair and continued to wait for Xiang Weimin''s reply.

    "What experience?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "Experience of meeting your youngest sister," said Zhai Kuijun catching Xiang Weimin off guard.

    Xiang Weimin closed the book in his hand and leaned back on the chair as he nced at Zhai Kuijun. "It was quite an experience," replied Xiang Weimin. "I might not even be able to describe it. Although we have the same blood running through our veins, we are nothing but strangers. I wonder if it really makes a difference that we have the same blood."

    "Blood is thicker than water," stated Zhai Kuijun.

    "Uncle, you don''t have tofort me like that," said Xiang Weimin. "You and I both know that no matter how thick the blood is, it can never ovee the space left behind by time." He closed his eyes briefly as he went on, "We can''t change the fact that there are twenty-five years between us. Time is a cruel thing. No matter how strong a rtionship is, it often can''t bear the storm of time."

    Zhai Kuijun raised his brow at Xiang Weimin and nced at the book title that he had been reading. With a thoughtful expression, he said, "Are you turning philosophical after reading these days?"

    Xiang Weimin smiled slightly, "It''s nothing like that. It''s just that when I saw how close Yue Fai was with Raelle, it made me realize that I couldn''t really fight with time. That''s a very difficult thing to do. You can never make up for the lost time."

    "So, you''re giving up?" inquired Zhai Kuijun.

    "That''s impossible," retorted Xiang Weimin. "Just because I lost the past with her, doesn''t mean I''m willing to lose this present as well." He took a brief pause before adding, "Although I understand that I might never be able toe close to what Fai means to her, I''d still like to be a brother to her."

    "Speaking of that," started Zhai Kuijun. "I didn''t expect that Yue Fai was acquainted with Raelle. No, it shouldn''t be described as mere acquaintances. They seem closer than that."

    "I didn''t know that either," told Xiang Weimin. "But I believe that he knew me from the beginning."

    "Do you mean that''s why he saved you?"

    Xiang Weimin shook his head, "Not really. He only asked my name when we reached the hospital and there when he heard my name, he had a crack in his expression for a second. I didn''t take it seriously back then but looking back, the way he looked at me had changed after that. That''s why I''m certain that he figured out my identity since then."

    "He is a very interesting guy,"mented Zhai Kuijun.

    Xiang Weimin smiled at that and nodded in agreement, "He sure is."

    Zhai Kuijun stood up and patted Xiang Weimin''s shoulder, "I''m going to work now. Take care of yourself. Don''t try to act like a superhero. You haven''t recovered yet. So rest well. And by resting, I mean to get some sleep. Don''t continue to read all the time. Your mind also needs rest."

    "Wow! You''re even naggier than my own father,"mented Xiang Weimin.

    Zhai Kuijun straightened up and cleared his throat, "Who is naggy? I''m just giving you advice as an elder." Saying that he left.

    *Ring!*

    Xiang Weimin heard the ringtone of his phone and stretched his hand to pick the phone from the table. As he looked at the caller id, his eyes narrowed and he answered the phone. "It seems you found your phone. What a miracle!"

    "Ge, you can stop being so sarcastic with me," came Xiang Wai''s voice. "Anyway, I saw you called."

    "I just wanted to ask you how you''re doing," replied Xiang Weimin. "But apparently, your phone is such a burden that you can''t even carry it on your body." He sighed out helplessly, "I heard from dad that you went over."

    "Yup!"

    "How long are you staying?"

    "I''m already on my way back," she replied.

    "It''s rare for you to have time," said Xiang Weimin. "Why didn''t you spend some more time with him?"

    "Just because I have free time doesn''t mean Papa does as well," she told him. "He already took a day off yesterday. I couldn''t just make him ignore his work for me. Besides, spending a day is enough. It''s not like our family has the habit of living together."

    "Fine, thene over to see me when you''re back," said Xiang Weimin. He couldn''t possibly disagree with her words. Their family really didn''t have the habit of living together. It''s already enough that they get to see each other once in a while. Any more than that and perhaps even they won''t be used to it at all.

    "That''s the n," said Xiang Wai. Thinking of something, she mentioned, "Oh, Ge, mom''s birthday ising."

    "So?" responded Xiang Weimin strangely. Why was she bringing that up out of nowhere? "And you even remember her birthday? You even forget your own!"

    He wasn''t lying. The way they lived, none of them actually remembered their birthdays. They never had the habit of celebrating birthdays either since most of the time, they''d be out on a mission.

    "I didn''t remember hers," said Xiang Wai. "She called me."

    "To remind you of her birthday?" Xiang Weimin felt inexplicable when he heard that. "When did she get interested in birthdays?"

    "How would I know that?" retorted Xiang Wai. "Anyway, she just called to say that she''d be holding a birthday celebration next week and she wants me toe. Also, she invited you as well."

    "Do we have to go?" asked Xiang Weimin as he groaned. "Just tell her I''m sick and can''te."

    "If I said that, she might show up to drag you with her," reminded Xiang Wai. "And it''s just a dinner. I think we can go."

    "Go and let her family get on my nerve?" asked Xiang Weimin. "No, thank you! I''m not interested."

    "Well, I can''t go there alone," said Xiang Wai. "I don''t care. If I have to go, then you have toe with me."

    "You''re the biggest trouble of my life," stated Xiang Weimin.

    "I know," she replied. "Now, tell me should we bring gifts?"

    "How about a no?" He took a pause and added, "Besides, I don''t even know what kind of a gift I can give her. How about this? Whatever you''re buying, just buy another from my side as well."

    "That doesn''t sound good," said Xiang Wai. "I also don''t know what to get her."

    "Then let''s not get anything."

    "That can''t do, Ge," replied Xiang Wai. "You''re the one who always tells me to be respectful to people. It''d be disrespectful if we didn''t bring any gift while others did."

    "Get anything, Wai," said Xiang Weimin exasperatedly. "I can''t possibly go out shopping in my condition. So, you''d have to do it on your own."

    "Ge, you''re using me!"

    "You''re my sister!" he reminded her. "It''s the least you can do for me."

    "You really know how to y, eh?"

    Xiang Weimin looked proud of himself as he smiled smugly. But suddenly his smile was lost and he inquired, "Did she invite dad as well?"

    "What? Why would she?"

    "You haven''t been around for the past year so you might not have heard that our mother dearest has been hanging around dad a lot."

    Xiang Wai went quiet when she heard that. "I really didn''t hear anything about that. Papa didn''t mention anything either. Should I call him to ask if he is invited?"

    "No," Xiang Weimin stopped her. "Let''s just stay out of it."

    "I have no interest in their rtionship, to begin with," was Xiang Wai''s response. "So, I can definitely stay out of it. But I''m a bit curious. What is she up to? Why is she hanging around Papa now?"

    "I''m not sure either," he replied. "I didn''t hear anything from Dad but I did hear a little from Uncle Jun."

    "What? What did he tell you?"

    "Something about reconciliation, perhaps."

    Xiang Wai snorted, "What nonsense is that? Isn''t it toote for that? And what kind of reconciliation? They are divorced! That''s the end of a rtionship! Nothing goodes from going back to a rtionship you know from the beginning how it''s gonna end."

    "Talking from experience?" he suddenly asked.

    Xiang Wai was stunned for a moment before her eyes darkened and she hummed in agreement. "Yeah! I certainly am talking from experience."

    There was silence on both sides for a while. Suddenly, he could hear an announcement from Xiang Wai''s side. It seemed she was already at the airport waiting to board the ne.

    "Wai..."

    "Hm?"

    "I usually don''t get involved with your personal life but I have a question for you.

    "Go ahead," she said.

    "Is this really the end for you and Yanjun?"

    Xiang Wai had a bitter smile on her lips as she said, "It is over! For good!"

 Chapter 460 - Unpredictable Journey

    "Please, check if everything is okay with these documents and if it is, you can sign these," stated Cloe as she pointed at the pile of files on Raelle''s desk. Holding her iPad in her hand, she went on, "Just a reminder that you have a video conference with the board of directors from the headquarters."

    Raelle silently listened to her as she looked through the bulk of envelopes she held in her hand. All of these were invitations to various events or parties. Nothing particrly interesting to her. But she still went through them to see who were the people who sent these invitations whether showing goodwill or seeking connections.

    "How is the acquisition ning up?" inquired Raelle when Cloe stopped talking.

    "I''ll deliver it to your desk by the end of this day," answered Cloe.

    Raelle''s eyes lifted up as she nced at Cloe before she lowered her eyes to continue skimming through the invitations in her hands. "Then I''ll be waiting," was all that she said. Seeing how Cloe didn''t leave even after reporting everything, Raelle looked up again, "Anything else?"

    Cloe nodded her head, "There is but... It has nothing to do with work."

    Raelle ced the envelopes on the desk and leaned back in her seat as she gazed at her intently, "Go on. I''m listening."

    "I''ve been thinking since yesterday that it seems like wherever I go, I can''t seem to run away from you," stated Cloe quite frankly. From the moment she met Raelle at the shopping mall yesterday, she had this thought running through her mind. It wasn''t really her fault though. "Just when I thought I can escape you on weekends, I ended up running into you on my date."

    "And it''s my fault?" asked Raelle.

    "No," she answered. "That''s not what I meant. It''s just that I feel like..."

    While she was finding the right word, Raelle suggested, "Feel like I''m haunting you?"

    Cloe''s lips twitched at her choice of words and she shook her head, "Of course, not! I won''t say haunting but more like, you have be a part of my life I can''t seem to escape."

    "There is a way to escape me," said Raelle. Cloe raised her brow in anticipation waiting for her response. "But for that, you''ll have to leave this job."

    Cloe gave a hollowugh, "I don''t like that idea."

    "Then just deal with it," replied Raelle nkly.

    "Never in my life, I thought I''d see you in a cinema watching a romanticedy!" Cloe still felt like it was a dream. When she found Raelle in the same cinema room, she was blown away. And because Raelle was very close to her, she couldn''t even focus on the movie and ended up not enjoying it as much as she would have loved to. Her eyes were focused on Raelle''s nk face. She just wanted to see a crack in Raelle''s expressions but clearly, it was too much to ask for. The movie didn''t even manage to make herugh or cry. It was all the same to her.

    "Then you should start expecting the unexpected," suggested Raelle good-heartedly. "Because life is an unpredictable journey."

    "I''ve been trying to get used to the unexpected since you got married," replied Cloe honestly. She had to say that she''d been receiving way too many surprises since her boss got married.

    "Are you interested in Chinese Opera?" asked Raelle out of nowhere.

    Cloe frowned at her unexpected question but still answered, "Haven''t been to one but I do want to. I''ve heard about it so I''m a bit intrigued."

    Raelle picked up an envelope and pushed it towards her, "Have fun then."

    Cloe picked up the envelope and opened it to find two tickets to the biggest Opera theatre in the City.

    "You can go on a date with that boyfriend of yours."

    Cloe''s brows raised up when she heard that, "Why don''t you go on a date with your husband?"

    "Do I look like someone who can appreciate the beauty of Opera?"

    Cloe shook her head without any resistance, "You most definitely not."

    "Exactly!"

    Cloe pursed her lips and continued to look at the VIP tickets in her hands. She seemed to be in deep thought.

    "Don''t tell me you''re still uncertain about this rtionship?" questioned Raelle. "Remind me why I''m keeping such an indecisive person like you with me?"

    Cloe stared at Raelle, "Chief, you are so good at reading people that it''s scary."

    "I have heard that before," replied Raelle. "Plenty of times."

    "You''re right though," said Cloe. "I am being indecisive about this rtionship. There is actually nothing wrong with Cui Xukun. He is a good person. No, I should say he is a very good person. But I feel like he is too good of a person."

    "And that''s a problem?" asked Raelle.

    "Isn''t it?" she retorted. "He is too good to be true. There is nothing to dislike about him."

    "There is," replied Raelle. "My husband doesn''t like him. Isn''t that enough of a reason to show that he isn''t all that great?"

    Cloe gaped at Raelle for a whole minute in disbelief. It certainly was difficult to believe. So ording to Raelle, just because her husband had a problem with Cui Xukun, that means something was wrong with that man. Cloe didn''t even know what to say in reply to this kind of a reason.

    She was still looking for words to say but in the end, she ended upughing out.

    "Chief, when did you get a sense of humor?"

    "I wasn''t joking," said Raelle. "However, I''d suggest you to stop looking for excuses." Cloe''s eyes widened as she went on, "Instead of trying to look for his ws, just so you have a reason to convince yourself that this rtionship won''t go anywhere. Focus on his good points."

    Cloe was momentarily left in a daze when she heard that from Raelle. Indeed, deep down she had been looking for excuses for her herself.. She just couldn''t help it.

 Chapter 461 - Forgot

    Never in even her dreams did Cloe ever think she''de to Raelle for rtionship advice. But just as Raelle had told her, life is unpredictable. She really should get used to it. Since the reality just proved that right now, she stood in front of Raelle and asked, "Chief, what do you think I should do?"

    "You want free advice?" Raelle asked in return. "But there is no free lunch in this world."

    Cloe sighed out, "Chief, I''ve been loyal to you for years."

    Raelle shook her finger, "You have been loyal to the money I pay you." She took a pause and added, "But since I''ve invested quite some years in shaping you into a capable individual, I believe I should go easy on you."

    Cloe was actually amused by the way she liked to put things out there.

    "Please, do!"

    "If you''re uncertain about this rtionship, just kiss him," suggested Raelle to Cloe who almost fell down from shock. That was certainly not what she expected to hear.

    "What?!"

    "Don''t look at me like you''ve seen a ghost," said Raelle. "It''s still me."

    "Oh," responded Cloe as she gathered her thoughts. "I just never thought I''d be hearing something like that from you."

    "Don''t think about unnecessary things," said Raelle. "Instead, focus on what I said. Kissing is the beginning of a rtionship. From a kiss, you can actually tell if you want to be with a person or not." She could see the disbelief in Cloe''s eyes so she added, "You can have some faith in my words. "I have read plenty of books."

    "You mean, just a kiss will allow me to understand whether I want to be with him or not?"

    "That''s exactly it," agreed Raelle. "It''s called the first base for a reason. It''s because it''s the first step towards something more intimate. And that first step either can lead you forward or make you realize that this isn''t meant for you."

    "I suddenly feel like I just have a whole new understanding of you," said Cloe. "But I''ll follow your lead." She so readily agreed because her past experience had proven that it could never go wrong with following Raelle''s lead. Cloe felt lighthearted after the discussion and turned to leave. But just as she reached the door, she looked back and hesitated before opening her mouth to ask, "Chief, just onest question."

    Raelle looked up from the file in her hand at Cloe.

    "Did you apply this to your husband?"

    "Curious?"

    Cloe nodded her head like a chicken pecking on grains. She was dying from curiosity now.

    "Since you''re this curious, I don''t wanna tell you."

    Cloe snorted, "How stingy!"

    Raelle clicked her fingers and said, "Get back to work now!"

    "Yes, Chief!" Cloe hurriedly ran out of her office. Just because Raelle was having a normal conversation with her, she actually forgot for a second that she was talking to her boss who valued time more than money. Because ording to her, money lost can be earned. The lost times can never be recovered.

    In fact, the only reason Raelle spent so much time on Cloe was simple. She didn''t want such irrelevant thoughts to disrupt Cloe''s mood and affect her work efficiencyter on. As she had said, she had spent years training Cloe to be one of her most trusted employees and the most capable one as well.

    She would just count it as taking care of her employees'' mental health. See? She was such a good boss! She even cared about their mental health.

    Soon, she got back to work. However, just five minutester, she was looking for something on her desk. She stood up and went to check up on the things she brought from home but couldn''t find what she was looking for.

    "Did I leave it at home?" wondered Raelle. She closed her eyes and reyed her memory from this morning. And she knew clearly that she ced those documents along with her other things on the table. But now, it was missing. "Where did it go?"

    Although she trusted her impable memory, she still decided to be doubtful. She stood up and left the office. Cloe saw her leaving in a hurry and called out, "Chief, is everything okay?" The reason she asked was that if everything was okay then why would Raelle leave the office at this time.

    "I think I left something at home," replied Raelle as she pressed the button of her exclusive elevator and entered. "I''ll be right back," was all she said as the elevator door closed.

    Cloe was left staring at the door with a dumbstruck look. Raelle Xiang actually forgot something at home? Was she such a forgetful person? Why didn''t she know about that until now?

    Raelle went to the parking lot and found her chauffeur waiting in the A1 area. She sat inside and ordered, "Let''s go back home."

    Following her instructions, the car arrived home earlier than usual. Especially since it wasn''t peak hours and the road was clear which allowed the chauffeur to increase the speed. As soon as Raelle alighted from the car, she was met with Shui Koshing who was going outside.

    Seeing her home at this time, he was surprised, "Raelle, what are you doing here?" His expressions suddenly changed as he inquired, "Are you okay? Do you feel unwell?"

    Raelle paused when he asked that question with worry and concern visible on his face. She didn''t know why she intently observed that expression on his face but then she said, "No, I''m fine, B¨¤. I just forgot something in my room."

    Shui Koshing heaved a sigh of relief, "Oh, that''s good. I almost got scared that something happened." He took a pause and added, "Why did you make a trip back yourself? You should have just called me and I''d have brought whatever it is to you."

    "I''ll inform next time," said Raelle.

    "Go, do your work," smiled Shui Koshing.. "I know you''re really busy."

 Chapter 462 - Master Xian Is Married?

    "Master Xian!"

    Shui Xian looked at his assistant, Ma Jin who just entered his office.

    "All the directors and the department heads are waiting for you in the conference room."

    Shui Xian stood up and said, "Then let''s go."

    Ma Jin sneaked a peak at his boss before he continued to just follow him obediently. It couldn''t be helped. He had been following Shui Xian since the beginning so he was the first one to notice the obvious changes in Shui Xian as well. He was certain that even if Shui Xian didn''t show it, he was actually really happy these days and he was certainly a lot more easygoing than before.

    He''d even ignore small mistakes made by the employees. And he actually seemed approachable now. That''s a change Ma Jin never thought he''d see.

    Just as Shui Xian pushed open the door of the conference room, it quietened down. No one dared to put on a mask of hypocrisy topliment each other. Now, all of them straightened up.

    *BZzzzz...*

    Shui Xian felt his phone vibration in his pants pocket and rummaged it out. Seeing the caller id, his gaze softened visibly and he said, "I''ll be right back." Saying that he was about to walk out of the conference room as he answered the phone and was about to ce it against his ear. However, just as his one foot stepped out of the conference room, he bumped into someone and the phone in his hand dropped.

    Everyone sucked in a cold breath at the sight of that.

    But suddenly, a charming voice rang out...

    "Hubby, did you see a blue file in our room?"

    The voice wasing from Shui Xian''s phone that dropped on the floor while Shui Xian was looking at the girl who bumped into him. The young woman was a new intern and she was scared silly when she realized whom she had bumped into. But when she heard that voice from Shui Xian''s phone, she looked horrified.

    But the people inside the conference room weren''t any different. They all wore strange expressions right now.

    "Hubby?" Raelle''s voice called out again since she didn''t hear any reply from Shui Xian. "Husband? You there? Xian?"

    Shui Xian immediately picked up the phone from the floor but even during that time, Raelle had called out to him again and again. He looked helpless and he turned off the speaker and ced his phone against his ear saying, "I''m here. Just give me a minute."

    "Okay," replied Raelle.

    Shui Xian looked at the young intern who hurriedly bowed her head, "I''m sorry! I''m sorry, Sir! I didn''t mean to."

    Shui Xian obviously didn''t think she did it on purpose but he was bothered by how she looked at him as he was a devil and was about to eat her up. He wasn''t that scary. At least, he didn''t think he was. In fact, his wife loved to call him handsome all the time. How could he be scary?

    Considering how his wife was still on the call, he didn''t want to dy and waved his hand off, "It''s alright. Just pay attention next time."

    "Yes," said the young intern in disbelief while Shui Xian walked away.

    Ma Jin, who was left behind, was currently sporting a small smile on his face. He was actually amused by the way everyone reacted. And his earlier conjectures were proven true just now. If it was before, Shui Xian might not have let that intern go that easily but now, he just did. This action was so unlike him.

    "Say, so it''s true that Master Xian and Vice President Ruan are together?"mented something inside the conference room.

    "But that didn''t sound like Vice President Ruan''s voice," added another female department head. "Vice President Ruan''s voice is on the sweeter side. This voice was domineering. I don''t think that''s her."

    Ma Jin gave the Finance Department Head a thumbs up mentally as he nodded to himself. How could President Raelle''s voice not sound domineering? She had the inherent arrogance of someone who ruled a business empire like a Queen!

    It had to be said that if Ma Jin had been a bit skeptical about Raelle and Xian''s rtionship, now, he was a die-hard fan of Raelle. Even though he only met Raelle a couple of times in person, he really admired her.

    The changes she brought in Shui Xian''s life with her presence were enough for Ma Jin to look at her differently. And adding on her status of being the Queen of a business empire, how could he not be impressed?

    "If it wasn''t Vice President Ruan, then who was it?" questioned someone. "She even called Master Xian as a husband! Do you think Master Xian is married?"

    Ma Jin could only sigh at the way even these old fogey directors were now fishing for gossip.

    "I don''t think he married," added another one. "We would have known if he did. You must know that this young generation loves calling each other strange nicknames. It''s nothing surprising anymore."

    "Director is right," others agreed with him.

    Someone turned to look at Ma Jin and questioned, "Assistant Ma, you''re always close to Master Xian. You must know about this."

    Ma Jin was startled at being dragged into this. He had no wish to gossip here! But he still professionally answered, "As an assistant, my job is to manage Master Xian''s work. His personal life has nothing to do with me."

    "Aiyo, our Assistant Ma is really loyal,"mented someone strangely.

    Ma Jin mentally shook his head. He could understand their curiosity but it had nothing to do with him. Besides, since Shui Xian and Raelle were already married, he didn''t think this rtionship would be a secret for long. Until then, these people could just deal with it.

    And in all honesty, a part of him was waiting for them all to learn about Raelle and Shui Xian. He wanted them all to feel the same mental explosion that he went through. It took him so long to recover himself.. So, he was waiting evilly for their reaction.

 Chapter 463 - Distraction AKA Raelle

    "What were you saying?" asked Shui Xian when he walked a little further from the conference room. He found a corner away from the prying eyes even though he knew it didn''t matter. Just from the earlier incident, he could already foresee just what kind of discussion was about to ensue in the whole office.

    However, he wasn''t really concerned. He actually wanted everyone to know that he was married. And not just married! He was married to Raelle Xiang!

    "I asked have you seen a blue file of mine?" Raelle repeated her question. When she came back and looked around the room, she still couldn''t find it. So, she had to call Shui Xian in the end. "Maybe you took it by mistake. Can you check?"

    "Let me see," said Shui Xian and hurriedly walked back to his office. He looked around while asking, "What''s in the file?"

    "It''s a stock market analysis," replied Raelle.

    "I don''t have it," answered Shui Xian. "Maybe you left it at home?"

    "I am at home," said Raelle. "But it''s not here."

    "You''re home?" repeated Shui Xian and pursed his lips. "Where was thest time you saw it?"

    "At the table in our room," told Raelle. "Right beside your work files."

    Shui Xian recalled what happened in the morning and said sheepishly, "You see, I identally dropped everything on the floor in the morning. And while picking up all the files, I might have missed your file. There is a high possibility that it slid under the sofa."

    Raelle kneeled down and looked under the sofa. And just as he had said, she really found her file there. "Found it!" she announced.

    Shui Xian felt guilty when he heard that, "Babes, I''m sorry!"

    "Huh? For what?"

    "If I had been paying attention, I wouldn''t have missed that file. And you wouldn''t have to waste so much time running back to the home."

    "Then why were you distracted?"

    "The distraction of my life should not be asking me this question," Shui Xian shot back.

    "I thought I was your wife," stated Raelle. "When did I be a distraction?"

    "Don''t even ask," was Shui Xian''s response. Did he really have to exin to her how big of a distraction she was? He could hardly concentrate on anything with her around.

    Raelle took the file and walked out of the room.

    "You''re going back to the office now?" questioned Shui Xian when he heard the sound of the door closing from her side.

    "Yes," replied Raelle. "I should get back now. It''s gonna take me a little over half an hour to reach the office as well."

    Shui Xian''s mood dampened as he muttered, "I''m really sorry."

    "There is no need for an apology," said Raelle. "It''s not like you did it on purpose. And even if you had, it''s okay. The least I had to do was make a trip back home. It''s really nothing."

    "But it certainly wasted your working hours," stated Shui Xian.

    "Stop wasting your own time," said Raelle. "I''m hanging up now. Get back to work. I''ll talk to youter."

    Seeing Raelleing out of the house, Shui Koshing asked, "Raelle, did you find what you''re looking for?"

    "Found it," replied Raelle. She looked at the rows of flower pots that were being carried down from a truck and looked at Shui Koshing. "B¨¤, what are you up to?"

    Shui Koshing smiled at her and answered, "I was nning on adding more flowering nts to the front garden. I chose all kinds of beautiful flowers. Once they decorate the front garden, it''ll be really beautiful. When you open the window from your room, it''ll be a pleasing sight."

    Raelle stared at him intently andmented, "You certainly know how to find things to keep yourself busy."

    Shui Koshing chuckled, "How can I not? I have worked all my life. It''s a bit ufortable to not do anything. Besides, you said I should not only read books but also pay attention to myself."

    "You''re listening to my words?" questioned Raelle.

    Shui Koshing went up and touched her head lovingly, "How can I not listen to my daughter?" He pointed at the pots of flowers and asked, "You look at the flowers and tell me, whether you like them or not? If you have any flowers you like, tell me. I''ll add it as well."

    "I don''t mind any flower," answered Raelle. "But I also don''t mind having none."

    Shui Koshing smiled at her, "If both options are okay, then why not get it rather not?"

    Raelle gave him a nod, "If you say so."

    "Go back to work," said Shui Koshing. "You must be very busy. Don''t pay attention to this old man. I''m just ying around."

    "You can y around all you want," replied Raelle.

    Shui Koshing was very happy to hear her words, "You mean I''m allowed to be as willful as I want at my age?"

    "I believe Xian and I can afford to have a willful old father," were Raelle''s words that touched his heart making his lips curl up into a sweet smile.

    "Okay, go now!"

    "Don''t just keep an eye on everything here," advised Raelle. "Have lunch on time."

    "Don''t worry about my lunch," replied Shui Koshing. "I''m nning on going over to Uncle''s ce to freeload for lunch. So, there is nothing to worry about."

    "Yes, you should go over to Opa''s ce," agreed Raelle and turned to leave. "Bye, B¨¤!"

    "Bye! Take care of yourself," Shui Koshing waved at her and didn''t forget to add, "And you also don''t forget to eat your lunch."

    Even though he knew that Raelle was disciplined in her life and she never missed out on her meals, he was still a father who had to remind her to eat well. Lately, he was more worried about this daughter-inw than his own son. After all, his son was absolutely fine after marrying.. There was nothing for him to be concern about.

 Chapter 464 - Plans

    While Shui Koshing was directing the gardener to be careful with each and every flower nt, he suddenly looked around and thought of something. He immediately called Raelle.

    Raelle was still on her way to the office when she received Shui Koshing''s call. She epted the call and asked, "Is everything okay, B¨¤? Why are you calling me at this time?"

    "Everything is okay," answered Shui Koshing. "I just had a brilliant idea and I wanted to hear your opinion."

    Raelle seemed extremely amodating to him as she asked, "Please, do tell."

    "How about I get some sugar plum trees?" suggested Shui Koshing excitedly. "We can nt them in the back garden. Those trees look amazing when the flowers bloom in the early winter."

    "Sounds good to me," she readily epted his suggestion.

    "Also, we can add some cherry and peach trees," added Shui Koshing. "It''ll add a whole lot of feeling to our garden."

    "Sure," replied Raelle patiently.

    Shui Koshing went on and on about his ideas but when she agreed with everything, he couldn''t help but say, "Daughter-inw, why do I feel like you''re spoiling me? Are you treating me like a kid?"

    "How can I treat you like a kid?" retorted Raelle. "But you''re right. I am trying to do my part in spoiling you a little. Who said only fathers can spoil their daughters? I believe it can go the other way around as well."

    Shui Koshing felt like his heart was about to melt from hearing that. He had been an only child of his parents. And he couldn''t really say that he was spoiled by his parents. They had high expectations from him and that''s why he had lived a very strict and disciplined life. This was also the reason he mostly didn''t get involved with Shui Xian''s life because he wanted his son to have the freedom he didn''t.

    Who knew at this age, someone would try to spoil him in this way? He definitely wasn''tining though.

    He sighed out heavily, "Aiyah! What took you so long to be a part of this family?"

    "You shouldn''t be asking me that question."

    "Right!" agreed Shui Koshing. "I should be questioning that good-for-nothing son of mine who took too long to find you!"

    "I wouldn''t call him a good-for-nothing," said Raelle. She definitely didn''t think her husband was a good-for-nothing. Far from that actually!

    "Don''t take his side!" said Shui Koshing. "He is a good-for-nothing." Thinking of something, he said goodbye to Raelle and dialed Shui Xian''s number instead. And as soon as the call connected, he started, "You are really an unfilial son! It''s all your fault that it took me years to get Raelle into my family."

    Shui Xian had no idea what he had done to get on his father''s nerves but he could only silently listen to all this. But actually seeing how his father sounded so spirited, he didn''t mind that he was being verbally thrashed right now at this age. He liked this spirited version of his father a lot better.

    ....

    While Shui Xian was being reprimanded for no reason, Hyson was following his mother around like a lost child. He literally looked like a lost child as he went wherever Yue Yue went. And without saying anything, he''d just silently stare at her. It was kind of getting creepy for even Yue to handle.

    She poked his forehead and red at him, ''Stop staring and do something productive!''

    "I''m being very productive right now," replied Hyson with a grin and continued to stare at her. Yue Yue couldn''t possibly understand theplex mood Hyson had but she was really notfortable with her son acting like her tail.

    No matter how she tried to shoo him away, he would just not leave. And especially his eyes. Those eyes seemed like they were glued to her figure.

    "Stop making her ufortable," said Mu Chenyan. "She is about to lose her temper."

    "She has a temper?" questioned Hyson with wide eyes.

    Mu Chenyan pinched his nose, "She might not but I do. Stop disturbing my best friend."

    "You''re gonna stand on her side?" Hyson clutched his chest dramatically. "I''m hurt!"

    "Sometimes I do need to pretend to stand on her side against you," whispered Mu Chenyan and gave him a wink.

    Hyson ended upughing out at her reaction.

    Yue Yue who had been observing them, walked over, ''Maybe you should learn some acting from Chenyan. She''s very good at it. Her pointers might help you with the movie you''re about to shoot.''

    Hyson looked over at Mu Chenyan who rubbed her nose sheepishly, "I''m not all that great."

    Yue Yue gave her a stinky eye before she silently humphed and walked away from them.

    "This is the limit of her temper," sighed Hyson. "No wonder people treated her like a soft persimmon."

    Mu Chenyan rubbed his fluffy hair, "My dear Fai, now people should be scared of her. She is no soft persimmon they can pinch. Now she has me. And I am not that easy to squish." She patted his shoulder and went on, "Now, stop staring at her. It really is bothering her."

    Hyson sighed out in resignation, "Fine."

    "Hey, Little Fai! I didn''t think you''d be home at this time."

    Hyson looked over at the owner of that voice and smiled, "Uncle Shing! What are you doing here?"

    "I came to freeload a lunch," answered Shui Koshing proudly.

    "Why do you look so flushed?" questioned Hyson. "Is the sun that hot already?"

    Shui Koshing waved his hand saying, "Don''t even ask. My temper just went up a little. But I''m fine."

    "Let me get you some juice to cool down," said Mu Chenyan. "And it''s good that you''re here. Elder Xiang has been meaning to call you over."

    "I knew my Uncle would be missing me," said Shui Koshing. "That''s why I''m already here."

    "You''re getting cheekier,"mented Hyson while Mu Chenyan shook her head and went to the kitchen.

    Shui Koshing smiled back and said, "Oh, since you''re leaving the day after tomorrow. I heard there is a dinner organized tomorrow night."

    "I don''t know," answered Hyson honestly since he knew nothing about this arrangement.

    "Forget it. I know there is a dinner," said Shui Koshing. "Don''t worry, I''ll be here as well."

    Hyson chuckled at him, "Uncle Shing, you even learned how to invite yourself over?" He took a pause and added, "Since you n oning, why don''t you just make a way through the wall that both houses share? It''ll make it more convenient for you to make a visit whenever you want."

    "Since we are on the topic," started Shui Koshing. "I know what I needed to talk to Uncle about."

    "Oh, what idea do you have?" came Grandfather Xiang''s voice.

    "Uncle, I want to tear down the wall," announced Shui Koshing happily.

    Hyson gave him apuse, "Uncle Shing is definitely bolder than me. Your ideas are definitely on another level." He looked at Grandfather Xiang and went on, "But Opa, I agree with him. It''s not good to build walls in rtionships."

    Grandfather Xiang gave him an amused look before he faced Shui Koshing, "You want to tear down the wall and do what?"

    "We can have a wooden fence instead," suggested Shui Koshing. "But in my opinion, I wanted to create a whole dirt path lined with cherry and peach trees. It''ll give a sense of privacy but it''ll also make it easier for me toe over to freeload in the future."

    "All that talk just to freeload easily?"

    Shui Koshing cleared his throat, "Uncle, think about it. I''m doing it for Raelle. This way, she cane over every night. Now, she has to take a long walk toe over."

    "Stop it," said Grandfather Xiang. "I didn''t disagree with your idea in the first ce. Just discuss with Yue and Chenyan. They would know better about what would look good or not."

    "Got it!"

    Hyson found it funny when he saw how excited Shui Koshing looked right now. But he actually agreed with his idea as well. There was no need to not agree. There weren''t that many people in both houses. But they were all connected to each other. Especially the bond of Raelle with her Grandfather and Mu Chenyan couldn''t be overlooked.

    Even Hyson could tell that Shui Koshing was doing it for Raelle. Even though there was only a wall between the two houses, it mattered a whole lot. And since whether it was the Xiang family or the Shui family, their purpose was to provide Raelle with aplete family. There were only Shui Koshing and Shui Xian in the Shui Family which left an emptiness. By removing that wall, he was just trying to fill in that emptiness for her.

    "Little Master, your phone''s been ringing."

    Hyson frowned and took the phone from the maid. He looked at the caller id and his brows quirked up a little. This was interesting.. He smiled to himself before epting the call.

 Chapter 465 - Ask You Out

    "Oh, what a surprise!" said Hyson as soon as he took the call. "I didn''t expect Lieutenant contacting me."

    Xiang Weimin wanted to roll his eyes at Hyson''s statement. So, he chose to just say it straightforwardly, "You were already expecting me to reach out to you."

    From the moment he saw Hyson with Raelle, he seemed to have gotten a whole new understanding of Hyson. This boy held no malice towards the world but that didn''t mean he wasn''t cunning. He only appeared innocent. He knew more than he let on.

    The sly smile on Hyson''s face deepened as he replied, "Lieutenant, it''s not good to expose someone so outrightly." He took a pause and added, "But it''s certainly a huge honor for me that Lieutenant Colonel Xiang Weimin has taken the initiative to call me."

    Xiang Weimin snorted, "There is no need to act anymore."

    Hyson licked his lips and asked, "Alright. Then may I ask what this call is all about?" Actually, Hyson already knew why he received this call. He also knew that Xiang Weimin was a smart man. If he wasn''t smart, he wouldn''t have been able to reach his current rank at his age.

    "I was wondering if you cane out to meet me," stated Xiang Weimin a bit awkwardly.

    Hyson had no particr reaction since it was within his expectations. But he couldn''t help asking, "You''re asking me out?"

    Xiang Weimin coughed as his eyes widened. "What?!"

    Hyson silentlyughed to himself feeling amused by his reaction. He feigned innocence, "What? Aren''t you asking me toe out to see you? What did I say wrong?"

    Xiang Weimin took a sip of the water and took a deep breath, "Why does it sound so different when you say it?"

    "I add a special charm to everything," retorted Hyson narcissistically.

    Xiang Weimin wanted to beat him up actually. But he suddenly felt helpless and amused. He opened his mouth to say something but heard a voice from Hyson''s side which stopped him.

    "Fai!"

    "Yes," Hyson turned to look at Mu Chenyan who called out to him.

    "How do wok-tossed veggies in honey and ck bean ze sounds?" she questioned seriously.

    "Sound yummy!" answered Hyson honestly.

    Mu Chenyan smiledcently, "I thought so." She turned to leave but then stopped and added, "Oh, one more thing. Vegetable fried rice or shitake fried rice with water chestnuts?"

    "Vegetable fried rice!" chose Hyson.

    "I want shitake fried rice with water chestnuts," announced Shui Koshing from the side. "Also, I''ve been craving some vegetable Manchow soup as well."

    "Who asked for your opinion?" retorted Mu Chenyan.

    "Hey, I''m the guest here. You should ask for my opinion," said Shui Koshing righteously.

    "Bro, you''re here to freeload!" reminded Mu Chenyan. "Since you''re freeloading, you should take what the host is offering. Besides, these days we only cook what Fai wants to eat. Don''t butt in."

    Shui Koshing looked at Hyson bitterly, "Should I also go on a long journey? Maybe I''ll also get this special treatment."

    Hyson couldn''t help chuckling at Shui Koshing''s words. He still had to add a word or two in his support though. "Aiyo, my dear Yanyan, why don''t you just add a couple of dishes for Uncle Shing?"

    Mu Chenyan gave Shui Koshing a look, "Fine. But it''s only because you had been nice to my Elle."

    "Oh, I didn''t know there were perks of being nice to my own daughter-inw." He looked at Mu Chenyan eagerly, "How long will it take for lunch to be ready?"

    "Ten minutes," replied Mu Chenyan and walked away again.

    "My little prince, you''re still on phone," reminded Grandfather Xiang, and only then did Hyson snap out of it.

    He bit his tongue and smiled sheepishly, "Hello? You there?"

    Xiang Weimin who had silently been listening to that lively affair from Hyson''s side also snapped out of it. He didn''t even realize that listening to them he actually had a smile on his face.? But it turned into a bitter smile when he realized what he was doing.

    "I am here," answered Xiang Weimin softly.

    "Sorry about earlier," said Hyson. "So, where were we? Yeah, you asked to meet outside. But I can''te right now. I have lunch with my family."

    "I didn''t ask you toe out right now," replied Xiang Weimin.

    "Okay, then tell me the location and time."

    "You can decide on the location."

    Hyson''s brows quirked up, "Lieutenant, it''s you who is asking me out. Shouldn''t you be deciding the meeting ce as the host?"

    "But I am not that familiar with this city," replied Xiang Weimin honestly.

    Hyson nodded in understanding, "Then let''s meet at Sunset Garden. I''ll send you the location."

    "Alright. How about we meet at 4?" suggested Xiang Weimin.

    "Sure," agreed Hyson since he didn''t have anything else to do anyway. He might as well go out.

    Besides, the prettydies at home had been asking him why he was staying at home all the time. It seemed he could make them happy by making a trip out.

    "Little Shing, it seems you are getting influenced by my little prince and Raelle," said Grandfather Xiang to Shui Koshing and Hyson couldn''t help turning his attention to them when he heard his name being mentioned.

    "Lieutenant, let''s meetter then," said Hyson and ran over to Grandfather Xiang''s side. "Opa, how can you say that? How did I influence Uncle Shing?"

    "How else is he getting all these crazy ideas out of nowhere?" questioned Grandfather Xiang.

    "Actually, it does have something to do with these two," epted Shui Koshing.

    "Huh?" Hyson was dumbfounded.

    "I got this idea of creating a fruit trees forest after we yed the game. Remember the mission in Cherry forest?"

    Hyson stared at Shui Koshing, "Uncle Shing, you really know how to find inspiration."

    "See?" started Grandfather Xiang. "I knew all these crazy thingses from Fai and Raelle''s influence."

    "Thanks for thepliment, Opa!" Hyson shamelessly stuck to him.

    Meanwhile, he didn''t know that while he didn''t hang up the call, neither did Xiang Weimin.. Currently, he could hear this conversation that made him feelplicated inside.

 Chapter 466 - Gossips

    "Did you hear? Master Xian is married!"

    "What are you saying? It''s not confirmed that he is married. She could just be his girlfriend."

    "Still, doesn''t it mean that Master Xian is taken!"

    "Didn''t we already know that? He had been with Vice President Ruan for a while now."

    These gossips had been going around the wholepany since the morning. People shared the news in their friends'' group and by lunchtime, this news had be the talk of the town. There was no one in thepany who didn''t hear one or two things about it. But the versions had be a bit distorted down the hierarchy line as well.

    "Aiyo, but this woman''s voice didn''t match Vice President Ruan''s!"

    "What?! That''s big news!"

    "From that woman''s words, people got to know that she and Master Xian were togetherst night."

    "Tsk. Poor Vice President Ruan! I didn''t think Master Xian would cheat on her."

    The male colleague looked at his femalepanion in displeasure, "Don''t talk nonsense! Vice President Ruan had never had anything to do with Master Xian. Just because he had been polite to her didn''t mean they were together."

    "What do you know?" The female colleague shot back. "It''s a woman''s intuition. Vice President Ruan had always been head over heels in love with Master Xian."

    "But that does not mean Master Xian shared the same sentiment," retorted the male colleague. "If anything, he always kept a distance from her. It was only Vice President Ruan''s wishful thinking."

    "I agree," added another female friend who belonged to the secretarial department and had a better understanding of things than these people. "Vice President Ruan thought her petty plotting of creating hype around her scandal with Master Xian wouldnd her the position of Madam Shui. But she forgot that Master Xian had never been the kind of person who could be easily tamed by some petty gossips. It didn''t even affect him."

    "That''s what I thought," said the male colleague. "But I''d love to see Vice President Ruan''s face right now. It''d be a sight to see."

    "Oh, that reminds me. I haven''t seen her in a long while."

    The female employee from the secretarial department gave a mysterious smile as she told them, "I know why. It''s because Master Xian kicked her far away to handle a project in another province."

    "Really?"

    She nodded. "It seemed she finally stepped on Master Xian''s bottom line that day so he didn''t even hesitate before asking her to leave."

    "Haha! Serves her right!"

    "You guys, don''t talk about Vice President Ruan like that. She is also pitiful."

    "I actually liked her a lot when I joined thepany. I admired her business skills. But after interacting with her, I learned that besides her business skills, she had nothing to show. Especially her personality. A typical green tea! Makes me nauseous!"

    "Why are we even discussing her? Shouldn''t we be thinking about who is actually with Master Xian?"

    This question reminded everyone of their original purpose for gathering around to gossip. How could they forget that? The identity of this mysterious partner of Master Xian was too appealing right now.

    "Who do you think she is?"

    "She could be a celebrity?

    "Don''t talk nonsense! Master Xian isn''t a superficial person. He won''t fall for a celebrity just because she is pretty."

    "Someone said from her voice she sounded like a beautiful woman."

    "Hahaha! You men can even tell how a woman looks with just her voice? What nonsense!"

    "Still, considering our Master Xian, I don''t think his partner would be worse than him."

    "I hope so. If I have to watch our Master Xian with someone, I''d rather see him with someone who equally matches him."

    "And where are you gonna find such a person?"

    Ma Jin walked into Shui Xian''s office after lunchtime and ced the file in front of him saying, "Thepany is rather busy today."

    Shui Xian looked up at him, "Busy with what?"

    "Gossips," answered Ma Jin. "You''re the topic of the day."

    "Oh?"

    "No, I should say it''s your mysterious partner who is the topic of the day."

    Shui Xian''s lips curled up, "So? Did anyone hit the mark?"

    Ma Jin chuckled, "Master Xian, I don''t think they could even have thought about that partner being President Raelle even in their wildest of dreams." He paused to observe Shui Xian''s expressions and seeing that he seemed to be in a good mood, he added, "In fact, someone also started a bet."

    This got Shui Xian''s interest piqued. "A bet?"

    Ma Jin nodded his head.

    "Who are the candidates?"

    "Since they can''t narrow down on candidates, they are betting on your partner''s profession." He actually felt amused by these happenings in thepany right now. He didn''t think these white-cor workers would actually find something like this to amuse themselves. "Surprisingly, no one has ced a bet on her being a businesswoman."

    "Really?"

    "They think you would not want to be with someone from the same profession."

    "How naive!"mented Shui Xian. "It seems all of them have too much leisure time on hand to evene up with something like this."

    Ma Jin sucked in a breath as he waited for Shui Xian to say something.

    Surprisingly Shui Xian didn''t try to make things difficult for anyone today. Instead, he said, "Forget it. They are having fun. I shouldn''t take away their happiness."

    Ma Jin breathed out when he heard that.

    "Did you ce a bet?" questioned Shui Xian.

    Ma Jin lowered his head and nodded, "I''m the only one who voted for businesswoman."

    "Then wouldn''t everyone know the right answer? Since you''re my personal assistant, they''d know that your answer is the right answer."

    Ma Jin shook his head, "The bet is anonymously done. They don''t know it''s me."

    "It''s even anonymously done? Wow! I never knew my employees were this creative." He sighed out, "Well, then, good luck on getting the biggest prize from the bet."

    "That''s what I''m hoping for."

    "Why? I''m not paying you enough?"

    Ma Jin was startled when he heard that and shook his head immediately, "No, no! That''s not what I meant."

 Chapter 467 - Date?

    "Going somewhere, Ge?"

    Xiang Weimin looked up at the military vehicle that came to stop right in front of him. The window rolled down and he saw the face of his sister. She took off her sunsses and ced her elbow on the window as she gazed at Xiang Weimin with an ever so frivolous smile on her lips.

    "You came back," said Xiang Weimin. "Took longer than I thought."

    Xiang Wai also looked at the time and shrugged her shoulders, "I asked someone to bring out my vehicle. I had to wait for it at the airport."

    "Coming here straight from the airport?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "I told you, I''lle to see you first thing," replied Xiang Wai. She took a pause and repeated her question, "You''re really going somewhere?"

    Xiang Weimin nodded his head in reply. It was already 3 o''clock, he had to arrive at the meeting ce by 4. Although from the map he noticed that the Sunset Garden was only 15 minutes drive from here, he still came out early because he wasn''t certain about the traffic situation in the city.

    "Can''t you just obediently stay at home and rest?" asked Xiang Wai. "Or is it that you just don''t want to recover soon?"

    "I''m doing fine," replied Xiang Weimin. "You don''t have to concern yourself with this."

    "Okay," agreed Xiang Wai. "Then how about I drop you off wherever you are going?" As Xiang Weimin raised his brow at her inquisitively, she put her sunsses back on and went on, "It''s because I don''t want you to run around on your own. Besides, I have my own car here."

    Xiang Weimin had to agree that it was better to take a lift from her rather than getting a taxi or asking Zhai''s family''s chauffeur to drive him around. At least, he was morefortable with his own sister.

    "Hop on, Ge," said Xiang Wai. "I won''t kidnap you."

    Xiang Weimin shook his head at her before he walked over to the passenger seat with the help of his crutches and opened the door before getting in. It was quite an effort for him to get on the military vehicle but Xiang Wai didn''t offer help. After all, she was familiar with her brother''s stubborn personality of wanting to hold up the sky with his own hands.

    She was tapping her fingers on the steering wheel as she waited for him to settle on the seat before she drove off. "Where to?"

    Xiang Weimin passed his phone over, "Follow the directions."

    Xiang Wai looked at the phone screen and continued to drive. "Sunset Garden? Ge, are you going on a date?"

    "What the hell are you spouting?"

    Xiang Wai showed him an innocent look, "Don''t me me but that''s a trendy cafe. And 90 percent of people go there for their first date."

    "For someone who has to stay cut off from the world for months for missions, you really are up-to-date," remarked Xiang Weimin.

    "It''s because I have to stay oblivious to the world for months that whenever I have a chance, I surf on the inte. I don''t wish to be left behind," said Xiang Wai. "But seriously, are you going on a date?"

    "NO!"

    "Okay, no need to yell!" she said. "You shouldn''t really be mad at me over this as well. You aren''t that young anymore. It''s okay with me even if you are going on a date. It''s no big deal." She seriously didn''t think it was a big deal. Why was he always so defensive when it came to rtionships? It was seriously baffling to her.

    Xiang Weimin chose to close his eyes and stop paying any attention to her altogether. Seeing him not even listening to her, she sighed and put on some music. Her brother was boring. There was nothing to be done about that. She was already used to it.

    In the end, it was proven that Xiang Weimin''s vision was on point. They really got stuck in traffic and by the time they arrived at the Sunset Garden caf¨¦, it was already 3:47 pm.

    Even after they arrived Xiang Wai didn''t leave. Instead, she followed him inside.

    "What are you doing?"

    "Not following you," she replied. "I''ll just watch you take a seat and then I''ll leave." And just like that, she still followed him without any hesitation.

    Xiang Weimin understood what she meant. She was worried about him and he was helpless about that. But true to her words, she really turned to leave once she saw his taking a seat. However, she stopped and looked at him, "Ge, should I wait for you?"

    "There is no need for that. I''ll take a cab," said Xiang Weimin.

    "There is no worry," said Xiang Wai as she patted his arm. "I''m gonna find a shopping mall nearby and look for a gift for our mother dearest. By the time I get free, I''ll contact you." She had to find a way to be around here so that she could drop him back home. She won''t be able to rx otherwise.

    "Do you have to buy that gift today?"

    "If I wait till tomorrow, I''ll forget about it," she said helplessly.

    Xiang Weimin smiled as he nodded, "Right! I forgot that you have selective memory. You can really filter your memory and remove unimportant things." It was truly a wonder how she was capable of only remembering things that concerned her. Apart from that, she was capable of forgetting the whole world. Her selective memory was no joke.

    Xiang Wai grinned at him, "That''s a talent." She shed him another smile and walked away saying, "Then I''ll contact youter. Wait for me."

    Stepping out of the caf¨¦, she breathed in and almost coughed because of the smog in the city. "The air seemed fresh inside the cafe," shemented and sighed out.. Taking out her phone, she started searching, "Let''s see where are the nearest shopping centers around here."

 Chapter 468 - Suspicious

    Xiang Wai''s attention was on her phone as she walked towards her car. Suddenly, someone held her arm and pulled her back. She looked up to see a cyclist that passes speedily from right where she stood a moment ago.

    Her back was against someone''s chest and she tilted her to face the person who pulled her back.

    "Watch where you''re going," she heard a voice from above her. Saying that the man let her go and stepped away.

    She actually didn''t need his help. Even if that cyclist didn''t make a sound as he came towards her, she''d have been able to save herself purely on instinct. However, since someone did step up to help, she had to say, "Thanks."

    "It''s okay," replied the man good-naturedly.

    His voice sounded pleasant to listen to but she couldn''t see his face at all. After all, he was wearing a ck mask, a ck baseball cap, and even ck sunsses. In all honesty, he looked very suspicious like this.

    "Why are you scrutinizing me?" he asked when he noticed the way she had been looking at him.

    "You look suspicious," she spoke out her mind honestly.

    "I look suspicious?" he repeated as he pointed at himself. "A good guy like me is looking suspicious?"

    "Yes," she replied. "The way you''re dressed, you look like you''re up to no good. Or maybe you''re trying to avoid CCTV cameras to hide your identity."

    Hyson gaped at her in disbelief and pointed at the military vehicle behind her, "That''s yours?"

    Xiang Wai looked at her car and nodded, "Yeah, why?"

    Hyson snorted, "No wonder why you''re mind is going off track. Not everyone who dresses like this is a criminal!" He really couldn''t understand these military people around him. Why did their brain always go in the wrong direction?

    "Oh?" Xiang Wai rubbed her nose. "Then, sorry!"

    Hyson shook his head, "Forget it. But I suggest you stop being so wary of everything and everyone. It makes your life seem very tiring." Saying that he turned and walked inside the Sunset Garden.

    Behind him, Xiang Wai looked at his receding back and sighed, "I guess my life is unnecessarily tiring." Shaking her head, she got in her car and drove away.

    Hyson stepped inside the caf¨¦ and looked around. Seeing Xiang Weimin, he walked over and sat down opposite him, "Hi, Lieutenant!"

    Xiang Weimin moved his attention away from his surroundings and faced Hyson. Since all the tables in the caf¨¦ had been surrounded by potted ornamental nts, it provided some privacy for everyone. And because of that, Hyson finally managed to take off his mask and breathe freely.

    "If I didn''t manage to take it off for another minute, I''d have stopped breathing already,"mented Hyson as he picked up a ss of water to drink.

    "Shouldn''t you be used to it by now?" questioned Xiang Weimin.

    Hyson lifted his eyes and looked at him, "Who said if you had been doing something for years, you''d be used to it?" He leaned back in his chair and told him, "No matter how much time passes by, I don''t think I''ll ever befortable with masks."

    "Would you like to order now, Mister?"

    Hyson pulled the tip of his cap down a little when the waitress came to their table. Fortunately, the waitress''s eyes were stuck on Xiang Weimin''s face and that''s why she didn''t even pay attention to Hyson at all.

    "I''ll have a ck coffee," said Xiang Weimin in a polite tone but his expressions were quite nk. "And..."

    As he looked at Hyson, the other answered, "I''ll take a Latt¨¦."

    "Is that all?" questioned the waitress.

    "Yes," replied Xiang Weimin. Then he faced Hyson who straightened up once the waitress was gone but seeing how Hyson looked at him made him a bit ufortable. "What?"

    "Are you single, Lieutenant?" asked Hyson catching Xiang Weimin off guard.

    "Why are you asking that?"

    "Just curious."

    "I am," replied Xiang Weimin.

    "You''ve never dated in your life, have you?" pointed out Hyson.

    "And how did youe to that conclusion?"

    "That waitress seemed pretty interested in you," said Hyson. "But you didn''t even notice."

    Xiang Weimin couldn''t understand why he was being questioned about his dating today. First, it was his sister and now here he was. How was he supposed to deal with this?

    "Is it wrong to have no interest in dating?"

    Hyson tsked, "Nope. I just felt a bit of pity for that girl earlier. Nothing else."

    "Oh, it seems you feel pity for everyone,"mented Xiang Weimin. "Just like you pity me."

    Hyson''s eyes lost the yful charm as he looked seriously at him and said, "I don''t pity you."

    "Yes, you do," insisted Xiang Weimin. "That''s why you decided to be nice to me."

    Hyson shook his head, "Not really. You might not believe it but I''m genuinely that nice kind of a guy. I know I don''t look like it but I am. You can ask anyone. Especially, you can ask my best friend. She can guarantee you that I am a nice person."

    "So, you''re that nice to everyone?" questioned Xiang Weimin.

    "Yes," answered Hyson. "I agree that my interest in you deepened when I realized that you''re Ellie''s elder brother. However, that couldn''t possibly be the reason for me to be nice to you. She never asked me to. And however I treat you, won''t really concern her either." He ced his hands on the table as he went on, "Moreover, she and I don''t have a habit of interfering in each other''s personal life or decisions. Even if you''re her enemy, how I treat you will depend on what impression I have of you. It''ll never depend on what kind of a rtionship you have with her."

    Xiang Weimin was left staring at Hyson in silence when he heard that. He didn''t know how to continue this conversation.. He really thought that Hyson pitied him and to be honest, he even thought he deserved that pity.

 Chapter 469 - Like A Cup Of Coffee

    Both of them stayed silent until the coffee was served. Absentmindedly, Xiang Weimin picked up his cup to take a sip. Meanwhile, Hyson''s eyes were glued to his face.

    "I wonder what you called me here for?"

    Xiang Weimin was pulled out of his daydreaming with his voice and looked into his eyes, "You don''t know?"

    "I don''t," Hyson replied innocently and even shed a smile.

    "You know," stressed Xiang Weimin with certainty. From what he could see, it was obvious that Hyson wasn''t as oblivious to the world around him, even though he loved acting innocent.

    "Even if I do know," started Hysonzily. "I''d like to hear it from you. I don''t like answering questions, I haven''t even been asked."

    "From the beginning, you knew who I was?"

    "I have never seen you before, how can you im that I knew from the beginning. I only figured it out after hearing your name and your rank." He drank his Latt¨¦ leisurely and licked his lips contently before adding, "I''d be very different if I knew about you from the beginning."

    "Why? You wouldn''t have saved me if you knew who I was?"

    Hyson frowned a little, "What do you think, Lieutenant? What would I have done?"

    Xiang Weimin''s finger traced the seam of the cup in front of him as he said, "I think you''d have still saved my life."

    "Oh?" Hyson quirked his brow at him in interest.

    "As you said earlier, you are a nice guy."

    Hyson ended upughing at that statement. He pursed his lips and nodded his head, "Indeed, I''m an exceptionally nice guy."

    Xiang Weimin''s lips curled up slightly involuntarily. He couldn''t help it. The person before him was like a ball of sunshine and he had an infectious personality. In his opinion, Hyson had the ability to direct someone''s emotions whichever way he wanted.

    "You got close to me because of..." Xiang Weimin hesitated a little as he asked that question.

    "Because of Raelle?" Hysonpleted his question for him and he could only nod in response. "Absolutely not. While it''s true that my likes and dislikes are closely rted to my best friend, it does not mean she has the control over my interpersonal rtionships." He took a pause to borate, "As for why I decided to continue my interaction with you, it''s simple. I was interested in doing so."

    "You were interested in doing so?" questioned Xiang Weimin strangely.

    Hyson sighed out, "Do you know that you share an uncanny resemnce to my best friend?"

    Xiang Weimin was startled when he heard that. "Our faces don''t really share that much resemnce."

    Hyson shook his head, "I wasn''t talking about your faces. I meant your personalities." Xiang Weimin was quite intrigued when heard that. However, Hyson didn''t exin himself. Instead, he said, "You must be shocked seeing me with her the other night?"

    "Yes," epted Xiang Weimin. "I was not expecting it."

    Hyson smiled, "You must have wondered why I didn''t tell you that I knew Raelle? Or perhaps, you thought I was deliberately hiding it from you?"

    "Those thoughts might have crossed my mind at one point," answered Xiang Weimin honestly instead of dodging it.

    "Well, I can assure you that none of that was my purpose," said Hyson in his defense. "What I and Raelle have actually had nothing to do with you. That''s why I never mentioned her to you. Raelle is my best friend and that is between us. I didn''t think it concerned you, so I didn''t say anything."

    "Indeed, that has really nothing to do with me," muttered Xiang Weimin.

    "I am gonna sound like a jerk saying this but at the end of the day, the only thing you share with Raelle is your bloodline and your surname. Apart from that, I can''t think of anything that can link you two together," Hyson just put the truth out on the table brutally.

    Xiang Weimin was momentarily lost when he heard him say all that but he couldn''t refute his words either. Those words truly pierced his heart but he couldn''t find any fault in those words. Indeed, he shared nothing else with Raelle. He only met her for the first time the other night. Before that, he only knew her name. He didn''t even know what she looked like.

    "Thanks for the reminder," he told Hyson.

    "I didn''t mean to hurt you," stated Hyson. "I''m just stating facts here. And the fact is, currently you have no ce in Raelle''s life." Looking at the bitterness in his eyes, Hyson stopped himself from continuing and instead, changed his words. "I know the real purpose you wanted to see me was that you wanted to find a way to reach out to Raelle."

    Xiang Weimin stared at him intently. In fact, he wasn''t actually surprised that Hyson knew the real purpose of this meeting.

    "Then, do you have a way?" asked Xiang Weimin. "No matter what, she is still my youngest sister. I''d love to cultivate some feelings with her."

    Hyson chuckled, "Feelings? People usually refrain from using that word around Raelle. Associating feelings with Raelle is a big no-no. Feelings never had a ce in her life." He shook his head as he went on, "As for reaching out to her. I''d suggest you not to do so." Xiang Weimin frowned at that. Hyson had a thoughtful look as he looked around as if looking for something and in the end, pointed at his cup of Latt¨¦ saying, "Our Ellie''s life is like this cup of Latt¨¦. It needs an appropriate amount of milk, sugar, coffee, or cream. Anything extra is not allowed."

    "Before I had no way to find her," said Xiang Weimin. "And now that she is finally around, you''re telling me not even try?"

    Hyson shook his head, "No. I''m telling you to not reach out to her. Not directly at least. You don''t exist in her world. Never did.. As for the future, that depends on how patient you can be."

 Chapter 470 - Eat Your Mind

    "I am a very patient person," stated Xiang Weimin. "And I''m quite persistent as well."

    Hyson couldn''t help smiling at those words. Of course, he already knew that. Why else did he say that he resembled Raelle? Weren''t those her qualities? She had an unlimited supply of patience and once she became persistent about something, no one could change her mind.

    "Then I wish you luck," replied Hyson sincerely.

    To be very honest, his knowledge of Raelle was far beyond anyone else. And that''s why he could already foresee the future. There was only so much in Raelle''s life for people she called family. He was willing to bet his life that Xiang Weimin won''t be able to take a ce in her definition of a family. However, he was also certain that Xiang Weimin''s persistence might allow him some space in her life. As for in which category, that was hard to say for now.

    But he didn''t tell this to the Lieutenant sitting opposite him. Seeing him looking hopeful, he couldn''t bring himself to dampen his mood at all. Hyson had met him so many times before but today, he truly could see him happy even though Xiang Weimin was trying to hide it.

    Hyson found it quite interesting. It seemed there was no need to put so much effort into trying to save him from depression. Just the name of Raelle was enough.

    "You..." Xiang Weimin started but held himself back.

    "What is it?"

    "You live with my grandfather?"

    Hyson rubbed his nose, "I do."

    Xiang Weimin''s body stiffened when he heard that and lowered his eyes.

    Hyson''s eyes sparkled as he asked, "Why? Are you jealous? Or maybe you hate me?"

    Xiang Weimin looked up at him, "Why would I hate you?"

    "Perhaps because I have what you want?" Xiang Weimin''s eyes dimmed because he couldn''t a way to argue with that. "Or perhaps because I stole it from you. Maybe you think what I have, actualled belonged to you?"

    Xiang Weimin clenched his fists tightly and took a deep breath, "I agree that I felt ufortable when I heard my grandfather doting on you. However, I have never been jealous. Hate has never been a part of my life."

    Hyson grinned at that. Again, see? He was like Raelle without knowing it. There was no ce for hate in both their lives. However, Hyson was forgetting for a moment that he wasn''t that different either.

    "You didn''t steal anything from me," said Xiang Weimin. "You have what was meant to be yours. I don''t have it because it was never meant to be."

    "Wow, you really have a big heart," stated Hyson. "However, let me make it clear to you. I''m a petty person when ites to my family. Whether it''s my Opa, Yanyan, or my Ellie, you hurt one and I''m gonna snap your neck."

    Xiang Weimin was truly amused by that threat, "I didn''t know you''re capable of threatening?"

    "Take it seriously," said Hyson.

    Xiang Weimin sighed out, "I don''t n on hurting any of them. That''s my grandfather, my aunt, and my sister! Why would I hurt them?" He shook off these thoughts and changed the topic, "Why don''t you tell me what my sister is like? Perhaps it''ll help ease up the awkwardness between us."

    "There is no awkwardness between you two," answered Hyson. "You''re just strangers who share the same blood."

    Xiang Weimin snorted, "I wonder why my grandfather likes you so much with that bitter tongue of yours."

    "The same reason you like me," replied Hyson cheekily.

    "Who said I like you?" retorted Xiang Weimin.

    Hyson tsked, "If you can''t lie, don''t do it. It''ll only embarrass you." Taking in the pleasure of being red at by the army officer who sat across him, he continued, "As for telling you something about your sister. I can tell you that she is just like me."

    "Just like you?" scoffed Xiang Weimin. He really didn''t believe that.

    Hyson couldn''t me him for this disbelief. "Whether you believe it or not is up to you. But I can assure you there isn''t much difference between the two of us. In Ellie''s words, ''We are just like the two ends of the same thread.'' We might stand at opposite corners, but it''ll never change that we share the same heart."

    "I never noticed before that you had an arrogant side," said Xiang Weimin. "But when you talk about my sister, you do sound arrogant."

    "Arrogant? No! Proud? YES!" replied Hyson. "My life''s biggest pride had been my best friend and it''ll never change. Never ever! This friendship is my pride."

    Xiang Weimin didn''t argue with him on that since he could tell that Hyson wasn''t lying. He felt like Hyson was truly showing off his friendship proudly right now.

    "You just said that I say bitter words then you should mentally prepare yourself," Hyson gave him a piece of advice with goodwill. "Ellie doesn''t have a filter on her mouth. She can anger someone to death. She is eloquent to the point that you''d get tired but her words would never end."

    Hyson finished his Latt¨¦ that had turned cold by now. But he couldn''t just leave it.

    "If there is nothing else, I''ll leave now," said Hyson.

    Xiang Weimin nodded his head, "You''re leaving?"

    Hyson smiled at him, "I don''t know about you but I have two gorgeousdies waiting for me at home."

    Xiang Weimin''s lips twitched at his words. He didn''t know why but Hyson''s words sounded provocative. On the same day, he felt like beating Hyson for the second time.

    "Just go already," Xiang Weimin waved him off. "I''m gonna lose my mind otherwise."

    Hyson leaned down as he looked at his face and said, "You mean, I didn''t manage to eat away your mind? What a surprise!"

    Xiang Weimin red at him, "You!"

    "Have a good day, Lieutenant!" Saying that he put on his mask and walked up to the counter to pay the bill before leaving.. Even though it was Xiang Weimin who called him out, he couldn''t just bring himself to walk out without paying.

 Chapter 471 - Healing Drama

    Hyson was feeling exceptionally good as he walked out of the caf¨¦ while spinning his car key around his index finger, indicating his good mood. He walked towards the parking to get his car when he heard the screeching of tires beside him and stiffened. He stiffly turned his head to the side to look at that damn reckless driver! That car stopped just beside him.

    "Are you trying to kill me?" he shouted in rage.

    A head popped out from the window and looked at him with a grin. He was all too familiar with that face and that grin as well. "How can I dare to hurt my idol?"

    Cloe pushed open the door and ran out of her car towards his side.

    "How are you, my superstar?"

    Hyson was mad at her for scaring him like that. So, he refused to ept. "What superstar? You recognized the wrong person!"

    Cloe chuckled at his response. "Even if you wear rags, I''ll still recognize you." She pointed towards the road as she told him, "I saw you from there and instantly knew that''s you. How could I note down to say hi?"

    Hyson looked towards the road and then looked at her, "Are those eyes or binocrs? You even manage to see me from there?"

    Cloe proudly jutted her chin out, "When I first joined Chief, she told me to be sure to see what others can''t see. Hear what others can''t hear and I should also dare to say what others don''t! So, you can say I have the sight of an eagle!"

    "Proud?"

    Cloe nodded her head.

    "You scared me just now!" he pinched her arm.

    Cloeughed out, "Was that enough to scare you? Sorry, I didn''t know you have such a fragile heart."

    Hyson pulled out his handkerchief and held one corner in each hand as he showed it to her. Cloe''s brows were knitted up at his action but she still looked at the white handkerchief which had something embroidered with red thread.

    When she read what was written, her face twitched uncontrobly.

    There was written: ''Fragile goods, handle with care!''

    Scratching her head, she looked at him in confusion. "What''s this?"

    "I used to tell my Ellie that I''m fragile and she should treat me nicely. So, she told me to have this printed out and carry it around to let people know how fragile I am." He pointed at his handkerchief again and went on, "Next time, before scaring me, please remember that I am fragile! And you wouldn''t wanna hurt me. I''m quite precious to my family."

    Cloe clutched her stomach andughed so hard that her whole body bent down. She couldn''t help it. He really had a sense of humor she couldn''tpete with. Just who would carry something like this around? Only, Hyson! Indeed, her idol was different!

    "Aww, did I scare you?" she asked as she wiped her tears that came out from all herughing. "How about I treat you to something sweet to soothe your shaken heart?"

    Hyson was interested in that offer very much. But acted a bit reserved, "If you insist."

    Cloe''s smile didn''t even leave her face for a second. She cleared her throat and pulled his arm with her saying, "Come with me then. There is a famous bakery around here."

    "What are you even doing here?" asked Hyson. He really expected to meet her out of nowhere. Although this Sunset Garden was popr, she was here alone right now. His gaze changed as he questioned, "Are you here on a date?"

    Cloe gave him a look, "No! I was originally here for that bakery! While working, I had a craving for something sweet. One of my assistants rmended the Sunset Bakery. I decided to pay a visit as soon as I got off work. And here I am. I believe it was just meant for me to meet you. I haven''t seen you in a while. You didn''te to bug off Chief at the office. I miss you."

    "Miss me? Or you miss seeing your Chief in the difficult position?" Hyson exposed her straightforwardly.

    Cloe coughed as she said, "That could also be possible." She shrugged her shoulders and went on, "But the fact remains that I miss you."

    "Continue saying that your boyfriend is sure gonna get jealous!"

    "He will just have to live with this jealousy," replied Cloe honestly. "I am a loyal person. Or else I wouldn''t have managed to score so many years with Raelle Xiang. And since I''m loyal, I''ll be loyal to my idol till the end of time! My faith in you will never change!"

    "What am I? A religion? What nonsense are you spouting about faith?" retorted Hyson as he shook his head at her but inwardly he was really amused. Who knew they''d actually grow so close to each other. And supposedly she was his biggest fan. And he actually liked this fan a lot as well.

    "Do you know what it means by stanning a celebrity?" asked Cloe in all seriousness.

    "Please, Professor Cloe, enlighten me!"

    "I shall do, my child!" Cloe yed along with him and he had to bite the inside of his cheek to stop himself fromughing out. "Stanning a celebrity literally means chasing a star. And stars belong in the sky. A fan is allowed to admire the star in the sky but the fan isn''t allowed to pluck that star from the sky. Because the ce for the star will always be in the sky. Idols don''t belong to their fans but it''s the faith of a fan that keeps those stars shining bright in the sky."

    Hyson couldn''t help pping, "Professor Cloe, you are certainly knowledgeable!"

    Cloe pretended to be shy and embarrassed, "There is no need for all that praise now."

    Hyson tapped her shoulder and said, "That''s enough of the drama for today. We are already inside the bakery.. This drama isn''t gonna heal my heart. Get some sugaring!"

 Chapter 472 - Different Species

    To be honest, Hyson had to agree that Cloe''s words were not only thought-provoking but also very touching. It showed that she was a mature and sensible person. And she didn''t just chase stars everywhere unnecessarily. In fact, he actually felt pleased with himself for managing to get a fan like her.

    But he wasn''t gonna make her feelcent either.

    He stood in front of that ss counter as he looked at the rows of beautiful, colorful, and delicious-looking desserts. His mouth was watering at the sight.

    "Ge, I''m just 2 minutes away from you."

    Originally, Hyson didn''t pay attention to the person standing on his other side.

    "I heard about the bakery and wanted to buy you a cake." She was silent as she listened to the other person speak before saying, "If you don''t want to eat then don''t. I''ll eat it myself. There is no worry. I can always help you finish it off."

    Hyson finally turned his head and looked at that face he saw before he entered the caf¨¦. The only difference was that now she didn''t wear her jacket over the tank top. But because of her tank top, he could see her strong arm muscles.

    "I''m suddenly jealous," came Cloe''s voice from his side.

    "Huh?"

    "Look at her figure!" said Cloe. "She is so handsome!" Cloe gazed at the woman''s short hair and sighed, "She gives off a heroic feeling."

    "She is an army officer," said Hyson. "Stop ogling at her so tantly."

    Cloe looked at him weirdly, "How do you know?"

    "I met her earlier," replied Hyson. "She was driving a military vehicle. Besides, just look at her. Doesn''t she give off a different aura?"

    Cloe nodded her head, "Indeed, a white-cor like me can''t possibly match her aura."

    Xiang Wai could actually feel their eyes stuck on her, because of her sensitive nerves. She even heard their voices. Her lips twitched and as she hung up the call, she looked at them, "Are you done admiring?"

    "Yes, officer!"mented Cloe. "You look familiar though." Cloe frowned to herself. Where had she seen her before? When she looked at her face, she was certain she saw her somewhere before and recently as well. But where?

    Just as she was about to unveil the truth, Hyson ced his hands on her shoulders and turned her towards the ss counter, "Cake! My cake is still pending!"

    "Oh," responded Cloe and eagerly started browsing which one to buy. "I can''t decide. They all look good."

    "How about we buy all?"

    Cloe stared at him, "What if we died from the sugar rush?" She shuddered at the thought, "That''d be an embarrassing way to die."

    "Excuse me, I want that ck forest and red velvet cake. Thank you!"

    Cloe looked at Hyson, "You already decided?"

    "No," answered Hyson. "Red Velvet is for Yanyan and mum. ck forest is for Opa and Uncle Shing."

    "If you''re taking everyone into ount, how about getting one for Chief and her husband?"

    "No," refused Hyson. "Don''t wanna!"

    "How stingy!"

    Hyson snorted, "Why don''t you buy one for her if you''re so concerned for my best friend."

    Cloe rubbed her nose, "Chief isn''t all that fond of sweets."

    "Exactly! And as for my dear brother-inw, he already has enough load of sweetness."

    "Oh, what is it?"

    "My sweet sweet best friend." While saying that even he cringed at the thought of Raelle being sweet. Both he and Cloe shared a look before shuddering together.

    "It''s good to know that you have conscious," said Cloe. She''d really faint if he had been able to call Raelle sweet with a straight face. Because she really couldn''t even imagine it!

    "Let''s just buy cheesecake," suggested Hyson. "If we continued to think, we''re never gonnae to a decision."

    Cloe agreed, "True. Let''s try cheesecake for today. If it''s good, we''ll continue toe to try the other vors."

    "Oh, that means my future cake delivery is confirmed?"

    "So stingy?" Cloe said again. "I spent so much money on your albums and merchandise!"

    "How much do you think of that money going into my pocket?" retorted Hyson in amusement. "As a shrewd businesswoman, you should really not be calling me out like this." As they waited for their cakes to be packaged, he turned to Cloe in asked, "So, how is your boyfriend?"

    "Seems like a nice guy," replied Cloe.

    "I told you to have faith in the choice of your friend," said Hyson. "I''m sure Soren understood the situation well enough to suggest you go out with his brother-inw."

    "I feel like his brother-inw is heavily influenced by him,"mented Cloe.

    "That''s also good," said Hyson. "If Soren has some influence on him, then he is definitely a good guy."

    Cloe was amused to hear that and told, "Master Xian seems to not like my boyfriend though. They seem to have some history."

    "What? Tell me more!"

    Cloe lifted her head and punched his arm, "Little friend, aren''t you too eager for drama? What tell me more? I have no idea about the details?"

    "If you don''t have the juicy details, why did you throw crumbs at me? How disappointing!"

    "You know Chief gave me dating advice today."

    "Oh? Now, that''s even more interesting. Go on..."

    "She said if I''m uncertain about my boyfriend, I should try kissing him."

    "You haven''t kissed him yet?"

    Cloe red at him, "How many times do you think we have gone out together?"

    "More than five times," replied Hyson. "Do you my Ellie? By the third meeting, she was already married! You''re too slow!"

    "Ha!" Cloe didn''t know how to react. "I can''t possiblypete with Chief. She is a different species altogether!"

    Surprisingly, Xiang Wai had still been standing beside them as she also waited for the special order she made. And that''s why she ended up listening to this conversation and she was thoroughly entertained.. She actually nced at Hyson and Cloe once more to see who these two funny people were.

 Chapter 473 - High-Five!

    Xiang Wai was the first to receive her cake and she left the bakery. Behind her, Hyson and Cloe kept on chattering nonstop like two long-lost friends. Surprisingly, these two had endless things to fool around with.

    After they took their cakes and walked out, Hyson looked at the sky and sighed, "I say, time passed too quickly."

    Cloe had to agree with him, "You are right." She felt so lighthearted after messing around with Hyson. Whatever tiredness she had of the day seemed to be washed away. "By the way, I forgot to ask, how are you doing?"

    "I discharged a long while ago," reminded Hyson. "How do you think I''d be?"

    "I''m genuinely concerned here," said Cloe.

    "I''m fine," replied Hyson. "I wasn''t critically injured or something."

    "Wow! You really take internal bleeding too lightly, eh?"

    Hyson shrugged, "I survived. Didn''t I? Why would I dwell on the fact of whether it was life-threatening or not? Maybe it was, but so what? I''m out of danger now, no? Why bother ruining my mood by recalling it again and again?"

    Cloe shook her head, "I really underestimated your optimism. My bad!"

    Hyson patted her head, "Although you''re older than me, let me give you a few of my golden words as advice. It''s for free." Cloe amusedly raised her brow waiting for him to continue. "Always live your life like it''s a one-way street. Whether you fell on the pothole on the journey or had to jump over the death valley to get where you are, just remember, it''s all in the past. If you continue to turn your head and look back at what you had to go through then you''re only wasting your time and dying your journey ahead! And who knows while reminiscing about the previous pothole, you might miss your step and fall into another pothole!"

    Cloe had to admit that his words made her reflect on her life for a while. Seriously, with that adorable face, how did he always end up speaking so deeply?

    "By the way, I''m also joining the shooting crew the after tomorrow," informed Hyson.

    Cloe was surprised to hear that. "That soon? Why didn''t you tell me earlier?"

    "I''m telling you now," said Hyson. "Actually, why don''t you join us for dinner tomorrow night?"

    "At Chief''s house?"

    "That''s not her house," replied Hyson. "At this point, it should be called her paternal house."

    Cloe chuckled, "I guess I shouldn''te. It''s a family dinner, anyway."

    "It''s not like it''d be your first time," Hyson pointed out. "Besides, whether youe or not is absolutely up to you. But let me remind you, if youe, you''ll get to meet my mum. And I have to say, I''m a possessive person. It''s not every day that I allow people to meet my mum."

    "I''m in!" Cloe didn''t even think again before agreeing. How could she refuse now? She was looking forward to meeting his mother. And besides, the other two people at that house, namely Mu Chenyan and Grandfather Xiang were already familiar with her. It''d definitely not be awkward for her to go over for dinner. She have had eaten way too many meals with those people.

    "Great! Now, give me a high-five!" Saying that Hyson raised his hand but like aplete bully, he raised his hand high. To the point that Cloe couldn''t possibly reach it with her height. Cloe red at him and he smiled, "What are you waiting for? High five?"

    Cloe took a deep breath and jumped up to high five but she just couldn''t reach his hand. This bully was really tall for no good reason!

    "How can you bully your fan like this?" grumbled Cloe. "That''s not what an idol should do."

    "Okay, I''ll lower it," Hyson lowered his hand and she happily brought her hand up to high five with him but this bully, moved his hand to the side and she missed. He gaped at her, "How can you be so clumsy? My hand is here?"

    Cloe closed her eyes to hold herself back before she tried again but he again, moved his hand.

    "I think your eyes are ying a joke on you," said Hyson keeping his face straight even though she couldn''t see it. But so what if she couldn''t see his expression? She could tell he was having fun doing this. "You can''t even see where my hand is."

    Cloe red at him, "More like, you''re ying a joke on me!" She lifted her hand and pinched his arm then his waist, making him step away from her.

    "Ge, have you ever had a friendship like that?" asked Xiang Wai when she noticed where her brother was looking after getting into the car. She had also noticed how Hyson and Cloe were still following around without a care for the world.

    "Huh?" Xiang Weimin looked at her in confusion.

    "A friendship where you can fool around, forgetting about everything else?" borated Xiang Wai.

    "You and I both know I don''t have friends," replied Xiang Weimin. "Besides, how do you know they are friends? They could be dating as well."

    "Nope," said Xiang Wai certainly. "I met them in the bakery earlier, they definitely didn''t sound like they are dating."

    "And when did my sister start paying attention to others around her?" questioned Xiang Weimin.

    "It''s not like I wanted to," replied Xiang Wai as she started the car. "It''s just that... That guy in a mask and hat grabbed my attention."

    "Grabbed your attention?"

    "Hmm..." she hummed in response. "I didn''t see his face but he had a beautiful voice. It had a calming effect as if he was putting you under some kind of a spell. Even when was teasing the girl beside him, the tone of his voice didn''t change. All in all, I feel like even if he was swearing out, it''d still sound pleasing."

    Xiang Weimin''s lips curled up slightly and he actually agreed with his sister inwardly.. Even though Hyson''s words sounded harsh, he couldn''t bring himself to be angry at him.

 Chapter 474 - Dangers

    ~Xiang Manor~

    Carrying a porcin vase, a maid was walking hurriedly in the hallway. Hearing the sound of heels clicking on the marble floor, she looked up and held in her breath.

    Raelle walked inside without informing anyone beforehand and when she came across that maid who stood frozen at her ce, she stared at her for a moment longer.

    The maid''s face had turned white from holding her breath. She was so scared of Raelle that she didn''t wish to make a sound even if it was merely the sound of her breath. The only reason she hadn''t dropped the expensive antique porcin vase down was that if she did, she''d be dead meat. The woman standing before her disliked people creating unnecessary trouble. She had never been a kind person.

    "Breathe," said Raelle before she walked past her without paying her any more attention.

    Grandfather Xiang was in his room and seeing the time, Raelle knew where she''d find Mu Chenyan. so, she walked straight towards the kitchen. Even before she entered she could smell the variety of aromas floating in the air.

    And soon she heard Mu Chenyan''s voice instructing the kitchen staff, "Check the duck stew. How long has it been on the stove?" Then she directed her attention towards something else, "Did you add all the herbs I gave you? Elder Xiang is old, make sure to stew it well."

    "Miss Mu, we have been working in this family for years," said the head chef. "You really don''t have to keep instructing the same things."

    "I''m also turning old and naggy!" retorted Mu Chenyan. "What can be done about that? But still, I can''t possibly neglect Elder Xiang''s health. If I''m not cooking myself, I have to make sure you all are doing the job well. Also, don''t forget to marinate some chicken wings to make honey and chili wings. Our Little Fai''s been craving somete-night snacks these days."

    Raelle''s been silently listening to everything without making her presence known to anyone.

    "Missy!" A helper saw Raelle standing at the door and was startled.

    Mu Chenyan turned her head around and she bloomed with a smile but she soon frowned, "Aiyo, my Elle. What are you doing here? Go out of the kitchen. Did you forget how dangerous the kitchen is? There is smoke, oil, knives, chili..."

    "And so much more," added Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan tapped her nose and turned her around before taking her out of the kitchen. No matter what, she really couldn''t bear to allow her darling Elle to step inside the kitchen even if it was just to stand around and do nothing. It couldn''t be helped, she always believed that Raelle was born to do greater things. The kitchen was not a ce for her.

    As long as there was a breath left in Mu Chenyan, she''d do everything to make sure Raelle never had to do what was not required.

    "You''re the reason why I can''t even tell the difference between scallions and leeks."

    Mu Chenyan touched her head, "There is no difference between the two. Both are from the same family anyway. Who cares what you use? You, don''t even think about it. All you have to do is enjoy the meal. How it''s made is not a big deal." She took a pause and added, "But darling, why didn''t you tell me you''reing? I''d have asked the kitchen to prepare more things. Let me do it now. There is still time in dinner."

    Raelle held her hand and pulled her to sit down saying, "I''m not staying for dinner."

    "What?" Mu Chenyan was disappointed when she heard that.

    Raelle patted her hand, "Opa and Xian would be waiting for me at dinner. I''lle over tomorrow with them."

    "You''re right," said Mu Chenyan. "You should have dinner with them." No matter what she was not that selfish. She knew currently Raelle was the life of the Shui family, she couldn''t possibly make the father and son eat alone in their dark world. Besides, she still had Hyson around and also her best friend. "Then what brings you here, Elle?"

    "I need a haircut," told Raelle. She never had the habit of dying what she had decided upon. Now, that she noticed she needed a haircut, she''de and find Mu Chenyan as soon as possible to discuss it.

    Mu Chenyan held Raelle''s hair in her hand and nodded, "You''re right. I didn''t even notice that."

    "You''ve already sent me away from you, how would you even notice that?"

    Mu Chenyan red at her, "Don''t talk nonsense with me. It hurts."

    "Fine," said Raelle. "So, when should we do it?"

    "How about in two days? Our Little Fai is leaving the day after tomorrow, then I''lle over. Or you cane home as well. Both are your homes, it''s fine to cut your hair wherever you want."

    "Alright," agreed Raelle. "I''lle over in two days." She looked around and asked, "Where is Yue? And what about Hyson?"

    "Hyson received a call and went out to meet someone," told Mu Chenyan without much thought. "And Yue is taking a nap. More like, I had to push her in her room to rest a bit. That stubborn woman is always making me worried. Even my Elle and Fai never give me so many worries."

    "Indeed, we are awesome!"

    Mu Chenyan chuckled at her narcism. "Yes, yes. You both are awesome!"

    "Is Opa sleeping?"

    "I don''t think so," replied Mu Chenyan. "You can just go to his room and say hello. He''d be sad otherwise if he knew that you came and didn''t even see him."

    Raelle hummed in agreement. Now that grandfather was old, he was really particr about such things. It couldn''t be helped, he loved her dearly. This love couldn''t be denied.

    Raelle stood up and left to see her Grandfather. Indeed, the old man was not sleeping.. He was just reading something to pass his time.

 Chapter 475 - So Good

    Grandfather Xiang was more than happy to see Raelle. If there was someone keeping this old man going at this age, that has to be Raelle and Hyson. Both of these younger ones of this family were his lifeline.

    Raelle came to kneel before his wheelchair and fixed the nket on his legs saying, "How are you, Opa?"

    Grandfather Xiang lovingly caressed her head, "I''m good now that I have seen you." He held her face in his hands and leaned to kiss the top of her head, "You tell me, my Raelle, how are you? Is that Koshing and his son treating you well? Let me know if they did anything to upset you, I''ll deal with both of them. Although I''m old, I can still show my might."

    "Opa, that''s not even a question," replied Raelle. "Both my father inw and my husband are good people. Do you really think they would mistreat me?"

    "I know they wouldn''t," agreed Grandfather Xiang with a sigh. "But you''re my family''s precious. I still worry about you."

    Raelle nodded her head in understanding, "That I know as well. You have never stopped worrying about me."

    Raelle sat with her grandfather for ten minutes before she took her leave. While she was leaving, she ran into Mu Chenyan who had been waiting for her. She smiled and put a box in her hand, "Take this with you. I made these snacks today. You enjoy it with that husband of yours."

    The way she said ''that husband of yours'' sounded so sour that even Raelle noticed it. However, she didn''tment about that.

    Raelle took those snacks from her and left.

    And just as she left, Yue descended from the stairs. Seeing Mu Chenyan standing at there, looking at the door with a sad look in her eyes, Yue was taken aback. She came beside her and even had to tap her shoulder to get her attention. Mu Chenyan turned her head and looked at her best friend. "Oh, you''re up."

    ''Why do you look so down?''

    Mu Chenyan sighed, "Nothing. It''s just that I think no matter how much time passes, I won''t be getting used to seeing my Elle leaving this home."

    Yue Yue processed her words and questioned, ''Raelle came?''

    "Yeah," answered Mu Chenyan.

    Yue Yue pped her arm, ''Why didn''t you inform me?''

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her arm where she was pped and looked at her with grievance, "She wouldn''t want to disturb your rest. Besides, she only stayed about less than half an hour. But don''t worry, she''ll being tomorrow for dinner." She took a pause and added, "Now that I think about it, we have to prepare a lot for tomorrow''s dinner. After all, we invited Fai''s group mates as well. We can''t lose our Fai''s face. I should start thinking about the menu."

    Yue Yue was left baffled as she watched how Mu Chenyan was suddenly lost in her own world, rambling. Yue Yue facepalmed herself and silently listened to My Chenyan who continued to n things for tomorrow''s dinner even though they had yet to eat today''s dinner.

    ...

    On the other hand, when Shui Xian came back home, he didn''t find his wife just as she had told him in the morning that she''d be slightlyte since she nned on making a visit next door.

    Shui Xian didn''t think much about it but clearly, his father did who was giving him a displeased and disdainful look since the time he arrived at home.

    "Ba," called out Shui Xian. "Is everything okay?"

    "Do you even care, you unfilial son?" Shui Koshing seemed like he had been waiting for this question to start shooting back at his son.

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and looked at his father''s face, "Are you not done? You scolded me for 30 minutes over the phone."

    Shui Koshing snorted, "That definitely wasn''t enough." He showed his grievance as he poured out, "Couldn''t you have listened to your mother and got together with Raelle sooner? Even if not marriage, you could have dated her. Why did you have to make me wait for so long to find a daughter?"

    Shui Xian really had nothing to say in response. He actually knew why his father was acting like this. The respect, admiration, and the status that Raelle gave to Shui Koshing, no one else had done it. Neither his ex-wife nor his own sister.

    As long as it was reasonable, Raelle was willing to listen to Shui Koshing''s advice. She was even willing to give into his unreasonable demands as long as it was not harmful. She truly looked like a daughter who was pampering her father.

    Considering just these points, it was obvious why Shui Koshing felt like it was a huge loss that he met Raelle sote.

    However, fate had its own ns. Although his mother had stated clearly to him that she wanted him to marry Raelle, he had his own ns. And since neither his father nor his mother ever tried to force their children, they stepped back once Shui Xian made it clear that he was interested in someone else. That heartbreak was meant to be his. It couldn''t be changed. However, Raelle was also meant to be his. Or else, fate wouldn''t have brought him back to this path which only led to her.

    But there was one thing that made even Shui Xian''s heart shake. He knew what Raelle as his wife looked like. How about Raelle as his girlfriend? What would that had been like?

    Definitely exciting!

    Such a pity that he wouldn''t know that in this life. What a shame!

    "Ba," started Shui Xian. "It''s all your son''s fault. Stop thinking about it now. No matter what, now you have Raelle as your daughter. Isn''t that enough?"

    Shui Koshing scoffed but didn''tment. He could only silently agree with his son. It''s not like he was seriously mad at his son for this. But he couldn''t help being a little sour either.

    A father and son''s rtionship had always been a bitplicated. Even if they loved each other, they would never say it in words. But they would every way to argue and go against each other.

    When Raelle came back, she found her husband and father inw in the parlor. She came to join them and said hello.

    "Oh, my daughter inw is back," said Shui Koshing jollily,pletely forgetting his earlier displeasure. "Come, sit with me for a while. I have something to show you."

    Raelle stepped over and sat down beside Shui Koshing who pulled out his phone and started showing her pictures he clicked in the day.

    "See, how is our front garden looking? At this time, you couldn''t have noticed it. So I clicked these during the day. Look how all these flowers brightened up the whole garden. Right?"

    Raelle look at the photos and nodded her head in agreement, "Looks beautiful."

    Shui Koshing was satisfied to hear that.

    "I talked to Chenyan and Yue today," told Shui Koshing. "These women have so many ideas that I couldn''t even keep up with them. However, each idea was absolutely brilliant."

    "They both have creative minds," stated Raelle. "Although their creativeness works in different directions."

    "That''s true," said Shui Koshing. "They got into a heated discussion once I mentioned my n to make a whole flower viewing forest. But I have to say, I loved it how their brains work."

    "If you continue to spend time with them, they''ll blow your mind with their ideas," said Raelle. There was no way around it. She knew how Mu Chenyan was and how Yue Yue was.

    Mu Chenyan''s ideas mostly leaned towards bold and unconventional side. While Yue Yue always kept her elegance and beauty involved in her ideas.

    Although both have contradictory creativeness, it worked well when they worked together.

    "I''ll show you once wee up with the whole design," said Shui Koshing. "I have to do something. I''ll see you both on dinner table." With that he stood up and left them.

    Shui Xian finally got the chance so he stood up and sat beside his wife. Encircling his arm around her back, he pulled her towards his body and asked, "How was your day, Wifey?"

    Raellefortably leaned against him and replied, "Same old."

    "Did you miss me?" He asked.

    "Was I supposed to?" She retorted. "Let me know next time. I''ll remember to miss you then."

    Shui Xian tsked at that while inwardly he was really amused. He pinched her cheek gently, "Babes, how can you even say that? You should miss me without even me telling you to."

    "Oh," was the only thing she said in reply.

    Shui Xian kissed her temple and said, "Shall we freshen up? Then let''s eat dinner."

    "Okay," agreed Raelle.

    "What''s in that box?" Questioned Shui Xian when he saw the box on the coffee table.

    "Yanyan gave me some snacks," replied Raelle.

    Shui Xian immediately opened the box and took a choco chip biscuit before taking a bite. "Mm.... So good!"

 Chapter 476 - Extra Work

    When Shui Xian and Raelle went upstairs, Shui Xian''s attention was solely on Raelle as if he was waiting for something. However, to his disappointment, Raelle''s attention was solely on her heels that she took off once they got on the third floor, and holding up the heels, she entered the bedroom barefoot.

    As she entered the closet, Shui Xian''s eyes caught sight of her feet and rushed after her.

    "What happened?"

    Raelle looked behind at him and asked, "What happened?"

    Shui Xian put his under her arms and picked her body up to make her sit on the boutique-style counter ced in the middle of the closet. He got down on his knee and held her foot in his hand. Looking at the redness behind her foot, he looked up at her, "Did your shoe bite? Why did you continue to wear it if it was ufortable?"

    Raelle only now realized why he had such a reaction and didn''t know how to react for a moment. She looked into his eyes and said, "It wasn''t originally ufortable. My feet swelled up a little and that''s why the friction caused this teeny tiny redness. See, it didn''t even cause a blister."

    Shui Xian definitely wasn''t happy with this reply. "So you mean, it only matters when it causes a blister? If your feet swelled up, you should have just put these heels off already."

    Raelle put her hand on his head and ran her fingers through his hair sayingzily, "I usually take off the heels when I''m in my own office. But today I didn''t get the chance to stay inside my office. This is really fine."

    Shui Xian looked at her unhappily, "How is it fine? Your little toe is also bright red. Any more and it''d have really caused a blister. That would have been painful. I don''t even understand why women have to torture themselves with the heels? Aren''t you tall enough already?"

    "Hubby," she called out. "Have you heard, you can conquer the world with the right pair of shoes?"

    Shui Xian rolled his eyes mentally, "Clearly, this wasn''t that right pair of shoes."

    "How can you say that?"

    "If it hurts, it can''t be right," he rebutted.

    "In your words, love hurts as well, why do you still insist on falling in love?" she countered.

    Shui Xian was left speechless. He really didn''t know why she would connect these two things. They were clearly unrted. But howe he couldn''te up with something to argue with her? Yes, love hurts and so does the shoe bite. Pain is pain, no? What was the difference exactly?

    He finally thought of something and said, "This pain is physical and the one caused by love is something unseen. They are entirely different."

    "Are you saying that just because the pain of love can''t be seen it''s hard to say how intense or extreme it can be? Or are you underestimating the physical pain just because it appears to be so small?" She leaned down and put her finger under his chin to push his face up saying, "But my dear husband, would you like to exin to me, in what way can you measure the pain?" She blinked at him as she continued, "Just because you believe that your pain is unbearable, doesn''t mean you can understand the hell the other person is going through."

    Shui Xian red at her, "Where are we taking this conversation? I''m just worried about my wife? Don''t distract me!"

    "Okay," replied Raelle.

    "Does it hurt?" he asked softly this time.

    Raelle shook her head, "It doesn''t. I didn''t even know about it. It''s just that I felt the shoes were too tight, so I took them off as soon as I got the chance. It definitely wasn''t because of the pain."

    Shui Xian sighed out, "Right. Why do I even bother asking about whether it hurts or not?" He rubbed her foot gently as if massaging it. He could tell that her feet were really swollen as she had told him.

    "I didn''t wash my feet yet," reminded Raelle.

    "Shut up!"

    "Oh," responded Raelle and chose to stay quiet.

    It seemed Shui Xian was in his own thoughts. Raelle already knew that her husband was a little too sensitive about things. Who knew he''d be worried about such tiny matters as well? Did he have to waste his feelings on this as well? Didn''t all women have to go through this? Even if it hurts, which woman would give up on her favorite pair of shoes?

    Women were just that kind of strange beings. Either it was a painful rtionship or a painful pair of stilettos. As long as they loved it, they''d never let it go.

    "I''m gonna bring ice cubes," stated Shui Xian as he got up. "That would help with the shoe bite."

    Before she could stop him, he ran away. Raelle tapped on the countertop and then jumped down. She changed out of her clothes and entered the bathroom to wash her face. When she came out, Shui Xian was already waiting for her with ice cubes.

    Taking the time she was in the bathroom, he had changed intofortable clothes and pulled up his sleeves as he beckoned her over. "Come here."

    Raelle really wanted to say that it wasn''t needed. However, she could actually tell that he wasn''t willing to listen right now either. So, just for the peace of his mind, she decided to go along with whatever he was up to. Besides, it was just ice cubes. No big deal.

    She sat down on the sofa while he sat on the footrest and picked up her foot to ce it on his legs. Taking an ice cube, he started rubbing it on the reddish skin of her foot.

    "I say, Hubby, you love bringing trouble to yourself," stated Raelle as she noticed how attentively he was doing it.. He just had to do things his way even if it meant extra work.

 Chapter 477 - Trouble

    "I gave my word to Opa and Yanyan," said Shui Xian. "That I''ll take good care of you. Yanyan said you don''t know how to take care of yourself and she was right. You really don''t know." He held her gaze and added, "This might be unnecessary to you but I don''t see it that way. Yes, this is a small wound but if it''s left unattended, who knows what will happen? It''s not like just because it hurts today, you aren''t gonna wear stilettos tomorrow. So, I have to do what I can."

    "Do I look like a fragile doll to you?" she inquired.

    Shui Xian stopped what he was doing. He extended his fingers to graze her cheek. The touch of his cold fingers made her rub her face against his hand and he chuckled at her reaction, "You are by no means a fragile doll. But you''re someone very dear to me. And when someone is precious to us, we cherish it."

    Raelle chose not to continue this discussion and leaned back to rx. Who knew when she did, her eyes would catch sight of something on the wall that made her freeze right where she was. Seeing how her body stiffened in his hand, Shui Xian looked up at her to see what happened.

    Her eyes wandered around the room and settled back on him. It was the second time in the same day she didn''t know how she was supposed to react.

    When Shui Xian realized why she had such a reaction, he smiled to himself and questioned, "Do you like it?" He had been anticipating her reaction from the moment he followed her upstairs. Who knew his wife would only notice the change in their surrounding now? And in fact, because of her matter, even he forgot what he was up to.

    "You," she didn''t know how to continue. "When did you do this?"

    "Today," answered Shui Xian. "I came earlier than you, no? In fact, I came an hour earlier than you for this surprise."

    Raelle''s eyes moved around the walls again. There wasn''t something extraordinary there that shocked her. It was just a photo of them together that was framed and hung up on the wall behind the bed. There was arge portrait in the middle and a few smaller ones scattered around in the bedroom.

    Even of the bedside tables, he had ced their photos. The only difference was that on her side, it was his photo and on his side, he had ced her photo. The rest of the frames in the room contained their couple photos that had been taken from the time they got married. In fact, this crazy husband of hers actually framed the very first selfie they took on the day they registered their marriage and ced it in the middle as the huge portrait.

    Seeing her quiet, he asked, "You didn''t tell. Do you like it?" He put her feet down and wiped his hands with a wet towel before sitting down beside her. He hugged her body and pulled her on his legs.

    "Like?" she repeated. "I don''t know," she answered honestly. Seeing him frown, she pressed down on the cresses on his forehead and added, "Don''t frown. I really can''t tell if I like it. But I can tell you I find it a bit out of ce."

    "Huh? Why?"

    "I have never been fond of pictures," answered Raelle. "Do you really think I''ll be okay with seeing my own face pasted around the room?"

    "I don''t mind," said Shui Xian. He nuzzled her neck and went on, "In fact, I love seeing your face around this room. In a true sense, now it feels like this room belongs to just the two of us. It''s our space."

    "You like it?" she questioned.

    "As I said, I love it!" he told her with a smile.

    Raelle leaned her head against his and said, "Then that''d be enough. I''ll get used to seeing my face around this room, eventually." She pointed at that very first selfie of theirs and questioned, "But did you have to turn that one into such a big portrait? Couldn''t you find a better picture?"

    "What''s wrong with that one?" he asked.

    "That was a casual and very random click," answered Raelle.

    "That''s the beauty of that picture," he said as he kissed her cheek and rubbed his nose against her cheek. "Baby, that''s where we began. That''s the start of our marriage. Maybe people won''t find anything special about that picture but to you and me, that''s our moment. That''s the start of our journey. It''s more than special to me."

    Raelle nodded her head in agreement, "That''s also true. That really is our beginning and one should never forget where one began." She held his hand in her own and said, "As I said earlier, my husband loves bringing himself unnecessary trouble. This was really not needed. However, you did it for us, and I want to say thank you for that."

    Shui Xian chuckled and hugged her close, "I didn''t do it to hear you say thank you."

    "Oh, then why did you do it?"

    "Because I wanted to," he retorted.

    Raelle patted his head in encouragement, "That''s good. Keep it up. One should always do what one wants to do. We should never do things to please others."

    Shui Xian didn''t know whether tough or cry right now. He nudged her head, "My dear wife, the only one I want to please is you. And it''ll always be you."

    "I didn''t ask you to please me," she said. "But since you love trouble, go for it!"

    Shui Xian was amused by her words and shook his head at her.

    "Let''s go down now," said Raelle. "It''s almost time for dinner."

    Shui Xian didn''t let her get up as he continued to hug her tightly. "Let''s just stay like this for a bit longer.. Eh? Don''t move around all the time."

 Chapter 478 - Jade Immortal

    "B¨¤, do you want a grandchild?"

    Shui Koshing was so shocked to hear that question from Raelle that his chopsticks fell down and he was left gaping at Raelle in disbelief. Staring at her limpid eyes, that gorgeous yet expressionless face that never gave anything away, he really couldn''t tell what she was up to by asking such a question out of nowhere.

    However, no matter how shocked he was, he still had some reason intact. That''s why he soon recovered. He knew that Raelle wouldn''t ask questions without a reason. So, if she asked this question, there had to be something behind it.

    On the side, even Shui Xian was staring at her strangely. However, he wasn''t as shocked as his father. They had had this conversation before so he wasn''t that surprised.

    Shui Koshing picked up his chopsticks and ced them aside, before taking a new pair of chopsticks to eat. "It''s still early to talk about that."

    "Early?" came the question from Shui Xian. "Weren''t you eager to have a grandkid to y with? Howe your statement changed when she asked?"

    Shui Koshing gave his son a displeased look, "I only said it to make you get married. That didn''t mean I was eager to have a grandchild so soon." He looked at Raelle and smiled, "Besides, look at my daughter-inw. She is young. These are her years to enjoy life."

    Shui Xian really didn''t know what to say about his father''s obvious biasedness at this point. But he couldn''t disagree with him either. First thing first, he didn''t want to be a father so soon. And then, he didn''t want to bring a kid between him and Raelle as well. As his father just said, these years are for Raelle to enjoy life.

    "But Raelle, why did you suddenly think of this?" questioned Shui Koshing.

    "Oh, it''s because..." Then she exined to him how during the meeting in thepany one of the directors received a call informing him that he became a grandfather. The old director was so happy that he couldn''t contain his happiness. It was only because of that that Raelle came to this question.

    Shui Koshing shook his head as his eyes turned gentle, "Forget it. I think I''m still young to be a grandfather."

    Shui Xian chuckled when he heard his father saying that.

    "All I want is for you and Xian to hold a grand wedding and announce to the whole world that you''re together," stated Shui Koshing ignoring his son''s reaction. "Also, I want you both to go on a honeymoon at least once a month."

    "Once in a month?" repeated Raelle.

    "Why? Too much?" asked Shui Koshing. Raelle nodded and he pursed his lips thoughtfully before saying, "Okay. Then at least twice in a year?" He took a pause and added, "In fact, all I really want is to see you both enjoying your life. Work is a part of life that is neverending. But you should give yourself some time to enjoy yourself as well."

    "I agree with that," Shui Xian hurriedly agreed with his father on this point.

    "Of course, you agree, Husband," said Raelle. "Lately, you''ve been trying to find every excuse there is just so you don''t have to go to work."

    Shui Xian wasn''t even embarrassed at being seen through by his wife as he leaned towards her and said, "Isn''t it, your fault? In ancient times, the Emperor didn''t want to attend the morning court for the sake of the heavenly beauty in his harem. How can I think about working when I have a jade immortal enchantress in my arms?"

    Shui Koshing covered his mouth tough out.

    "Behave," said Raelle. "B¨¤ is still here."

    Shui Xian ced his head against her arm saying, "B¨¤ doesn''t mind. Do you, B¨¤?"

    Shui Koshing narrowed his eyes at his son and nodded, "Why would I mind? In fact, if you want some time off, let me know. I still have enough power in me to deal with the business. You can enjoy your time with Raelle."

    Shui Xian blinked at his wife, "See? My B¨¤ is so understanding. He is even willing to give me a way out to y hooky!"

    "B¨¤ is obviously the best," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian nodded, "He is obviously the best. How else did he manage to snatch my mom?"

    Raelle looked at Shui Koshing who smiled to himself at the memory and said, "Daughter-inw, you don''t think it was easy to get my wife, do you?"

    "Wasn''t it?"

    Shui Koshing shook his head, "Definitely not. She was the school belle. She had way too many options. I wasn''t the only one who had a crush on her. There were others as well. Some even who had the better qualification to court her than me."

    "Then how did B¨¤ end up with Auntie?" asked Raelle.

    "I didn''t do anything extra special," replied Shui Koshing. "After school, I didn''t even think we''ll see each other again. She was dating that same someone who had better qualifications than me. So, I really thought I lost my chance."

    "B¨¤, you never even told me about that," said Shui Xian in surprise.

    Shui Koshing nced at him, "You never asked." He shrugged and continued, "But my dear daughter-inw, even though that someone was better than me, he couldn''tpete with my sincerity in the end. Your auntie was meant to be mine."

    "And here I thought you and mom had a very boring love story," stated Shui Xian. "Because she often said that you proposed and she epted just like that. I thought there was nothing more to it."

    "How could there be nothing more to it?" retorted Shui Koshing. "It''s just that she didn''t want to give details so she chose to tell you the shorter and the most boring version of the story to make you lose interest."

    Shui Xian suddenly felt like he had been deceived by his mother. Thinking of something he asked, "B¨¤, who was mom''s ex-boyfriend?"

    Shui Koshing''s face changed and he refused to answer, "You continue to eat. No more questions."

    Shui Xian wanted to question again but felt someone tugging at his sleeve. He looked down and saw how Raelle was holding his sleeve to stop him.. Getting the signal, he stopped asking.

 Chapter 479 - Eating Alone

    Hyson was nning on going home but Cloe dragged him with her. Her argument was, "There is still for dinner. And you''re so close to my ce. Let''s just have a drink. Then you can go. This is the least you can do for your biggest fan."

    Seeing how Cloe really wanted to drag him home, he just went along with her. It didn''t hurt. After all, it was true that her apartment was only five minutes from there. And there were still two hours before dinner so he could stop by her ce for a while.

    "Come in," said Cloe as she opened the door and stepped inside.

    Hyson nodded and followed her in, "Sorry for intruding then."

    "Why are you being so polite?"

    "I am very polite, did you just notice?"

    Cloe had nothing to say to that. It was hard toment regarding this. He was in fact really polite. Just like Raelle was. He would never do something to cross his limits. It was only his words that would get a bit harsh for the listener.

    "Just make yourself at home," said Cloe. "And tell me what would you like to drink?"

    "You don''t have to get busy," said Hyson. "I had a Latt¨¦ earlier."

    "That was a while ago," replied Cloe before she entered the kitchen.

    "I don''t think you usually cook at home."

    "No," responded Cloe. "I only do it once in a while when I''m feeling like it." She was preparing tea when she noticed how he just sat there in the living room. "Why don''t you just look around?"

    "I should not be looking around," said Hyson. "This is a home of a singledy. It''d be very impolite of me to wander around."

    Cloe chuckled at him and brought out the tea for him. She also took out the cheesecake she bought earlier. She sat down with him and picked up a cup of tea for herself and also the slice of the cake.

    Hyson''s eyes fell on the albums she had disyed in the cab and looked at her, "You really know how to spend money. If you had told me, I''d have gotten those albums for you. Signed copies."

    "I had to buy," said Cloe. "If I choose to support someone, I do everything in my power. And this was just spending money. I believe I earn enough to spare the money for these albums."

    "I can''t argue with that. My best friend sure pays you well."

    "And in the end, you''re still taking your best friend''s side."

    "That can''t change," responded Hyson.

    "I already understood that," said Cloe. "By the way, if I was you I wouldn''t want to join the same production crew again. I really don''t like that director."

    "My like or dislike is not important," stated Hyson. "What''s important is that I''ve already given my word to Sora when I epted this movie. Going back on my words is not my thing."

    "You''re too honest with people around you," sighed Cloe. "Don''t you think that''s dangerous?"

    "Perhaps," replied Hyson and shrugged nonchntly. "Anyway, I have another reason for joining the crew." Cloe looked at him waiting to hear his answer. "I want to understand the character I''m about to y. I want to know what kind of love can be the driving force for someone to be the bad guy? And I also want to understand, is it really worth it to end your life as a viin at the hands of someone whom you loved with all your life and who actually pushed you on the path of the viin?"

    Cloe tsked, "I don''t know about that. But I can assure you, love can make people do the craziest of things in life with a smile on their face."

    "But why does love have that power?" he questioned.

    "It''s us who has given that much power to love to control us and our emotions," replied Cloe. "Love is like a storm. Some people pass through it and some get stuck for good. However, whether you escape it or not, you''ll always be the one ending up with wounds."

    Hyson smiled at her, "Sounds reasonable." He took a bite of the cake andmented, "By the way, this bakery''s reputation isn''t just for show. This is really good."

    "Right?" asked Cloe. "I''ve been thinking the same. It''s a good thing I listened to my assistant and decided to pay a visit. Next time, I''ll try something new." She looked at Hyson and suggested, "How about you stay for dinner? I''ll cook something myself."

    Hyson waved his hand, "No way. I have promised to have dinner with Yanyan and Mum. I have to go back before dinner at any cost."

    Cloe sighed at that, "What a shame. I have to eat alone again."

    "Poor you!" remarked Hyson.

    "You don''t sound very sincere," Cloe pointed out.

    "I wasn''t being sincere," retorted Hyson. "After all, even after having a boyfriend if you''re eating alone then that''s your own choice. No one forced you to do it."

    "Do you eat alone?" asked Cloe.

    "Not if I don''t have another option," replied Hyson. "Even if I have to make someone sit with me, I''ll do it. But I rarely have to eat alone."

    "Lucky," said Cloe sourly. "I''ve been eating alone for years now."

    "And you''re still not used to it?" questioned Hyson. "That only means one thing, you don''t want to ept this loneliness, in the end. You want someone to be there with you. Just ept it. It''ll make it easier for your rtionship to develop."

    "For someone who had never been in a rtionship, you sure have a lot to say about it," said Cloe.

    "Somethings you understand without having to try it out yourself," rebutted Hyson. "But I''m just saying it for your own good. When you are wholeheartedly prepared for something, you don''t find excuses. If you wanted to get used to eating alone, it''d have happened long ago.. Since it didn''t, it means you never wanted to be alone in the first ce."

 Chapter 480 - Donâ€™t Fit In

    The thing that Cloe liked and equally hated about Hyson was his simrity to Raelle. It was not obvious at first but he still somehow managed to always remind her of Raelle. The more time you''d spend with him, the more you''d realize how he resembled Raelle. He had this deceiving look about him. He looked like a happy-go-lucky kind of guy. And he indeed was but he was also more than that. He had a deep mind. It felt like his thoughts and ideas were aligned with Raelle''s.

    And the way she feltfortable talking about anything and everything with these two people was also simr. Whether it was Raelle or Hyson, she could say her mind out loud. They both had the ability to make the other person trust them with their deepest darkest secrets.

    Hyson was a lot more mature than people his age and it showed in the way he talked. However, he had a silly and childlike side to him as well. Kind of like, he had kept that child within his heart alive. But that only made him all the more precious.

    While Cloe was lost in her thoughts, Hyson took note of the magazines that wereying on the coffee table. He picked one up and frowned, "Motorbikes?" He looked at Cloe inquisitively, "Didn''t think you''d have interest in these."

    Cloe cleared her throat, "I was nning on buying one."

    "You?" questioned Hyson as he looked her up and down.

    "Why? Why can''t I?" she retorted.

    "It doesn''t go with your image," he replied honestly. "You give off the feeling of a strong and capable and sessful woman. You know the ones who dress up to the nines and hold up the wine goblet while attending fancy banquets." He smiled at her as he went on, "Motorbikes are like the statement of wildness and rebelliousness. You don''t fit well with it."

    "You''re looking down on me," Cloe rebutted.

    "Nah. I''m just stating a fact. Pure fact!" said Hyson in his defense.

    Cloe pouted, "Why can''t I go crazy for once? Can''t I be wild and rebellious?"

    "Have you met my Yanyan?" questioned Hyson.

    "Of course, I have," replied Cloe. "I''ve been working for Chief for so long. How would I not know MC? That''s the woman who hired me!"

    Hyson nodded, "It''s good that you know Yanyan. Now, tell me do you think you and Yanyan have any simrity?"

    Cloe thought about it and shook her head, "No way."

    Hyson nodded again in agreement, "That''s why I said you don''t have the image of wildness and rebelliousness. Yanyan gives off that feeling of freedom thates with being wild. She is the one who doesn''t give a damn about what people see her as. And she is also someone who has long embraced that wildness in her heart and soul. Even when she is acting like a caring old mother, she can''t shake off that aura around her." He patted Cloe''s shoulder, "You should stick with what you are. You care too much about what people have to say about you. So, don''t try to jump into the unbridled territory. You won''t fit in there."

    "Thanks for the bucket of cold water," grumbled Cloe hatefully. As if she didn''t know this already. Why else would she only look at these magazines and never dare to actually buy a motorbike? She knew she would never be able to embrace wildness. Maybe that''s why she looked up to both Mu Chenyan and Raelle so much. They both were untamed and unbothered. They both seem so free in life that she felt envious.

    But she had been shackled by her responsibilities and family for so long that she didn''t even know what freedom really felt like. Perhaps that''s why she was also so indecisive about Cui Xukun. She wasn''t sure if he''d be able to ept how much she was different she was from his idea of her.

    "However, I still suggest you learn how to ride a motorbike," suggested Hyson. "If nothing else, it might make you realize something new about yourself. And there is no harm in learning a new skill anyway."

    "Are you trying to cheer me up now?" questioned Cloe.

    Hyson shook his head, "No. I''m being serious. Open up a little. Didn''t I tell you to give yourself a chance to try something new? Don''t always lock yourself up in your little box."

    Cloe wanted to stand up but ended up spilling her milk tea on her clothes. "Ah!"

    "Watch it!" said Hyson and took some napkins to wipe her clothes. "Was it still hot?"

    "Not really," replied Cloe. "But this stain..." she looked distressed at the thought of the stain on that white shirt. It was ring! Sighing, she said, "I''m gonna change. I''ll be right back."

    "Okay," Hyson stepped out of the way and watched her leave. Then he looked at the floor to see if the tea spilled anywhere else or not. Making sure that it only spilled on her clothes, he picked up the empty cups and tes before taking them to the kitchen.

    He would have loved to offer his services as a dishwasher but let''s ept it, he was really raised like a little prince who didn''t know how to wash dishes. Even though he was supposed to do such chores in his dorm his group mates never let him wash dishes. He knew how to do sweeping or mopping but he didn''t know how to wash dishes.

    *Ding-Dong!*

    Hyson looked towards Cloe''s bedroom before he looked at the main door, not knowing whether he should open the door or not?

    "Fai, see who is it!" came Cloe''s voice that solved his dilemma.

    Hyson walked over to the door and pulled it open. Looking at the man who was almost his height, staring back at him, Hyson raised his brow.. Seeing how the smile on that man''s face fell at his sight, a sly smirk appeared on Hyson''s lips.

 Chapter 481 - Say Thank You

    "Yes?" asked Hyson.

    "Is Cloe at home?" inquired Cui Xukun as he stared at Hyson. He had to say this man was handsome. Cui Xukun had never felt inferior and never thought that he didn''t have the looks. But right now, looking at Hyson, he was feeling a bit down. Hyson''s visuals were too eye-catching.

    "Cloe is changing right now," replied Hyson very honestly but that smirk didn''t leave his face even for a second.

    Cui Xukun didn''t know why his chest was feeling a tightness that made it difficult for him to breathe for a minute. Although Cui Xukun was certain that Cloe and Hyson had no such rtionship, he couldn''t help feeling down though. It was the kind of feeling like your crush has a better option than you, why would your crush pick you up then?

    As his emotions were written all over his face, Hyson was so amused that he felt likeughing out loud. How could Cui Xukun hide his feelings from someone like Hyson who could read the unsaid words of his own mother or even Raelle? Reading this man before him was a piece of cake since Cui Xukun seemed to be wearing his feelings on his sleeve.

    ''This guy is really interesting,'' was the thought running through Hyson''s mind right now.

    "Can you give this to her for me?" saying that Cui Xukun extended the parcel towards Hyson.

    Looking at the packaging, Hyson could tell that it was food from a famous restaurant. It seemed Cui Xukun did the effort to bring dinner to his tired girlfriend. How sweet!

    "Fai, who is it?" came Cloe''s voice from inside.

    "Your boyfriend," replied Hyson as he stared at Cui Xukun who stiffened when he heard Hyson''s reply. He looked up to see Hyson''s smirk still intact and didn''t know how to react.

    "Oh?" responded Cloe and rushed up to the door. She looked at Cui Xukun and asked in surprise, "What are you doing here?" She pulled him inside, "Don''t just stand there now. You''re already here. Come inside."

    While she dragged him in, she really didn''t even give him the chance to say anything.

    "Your boyfriend brought you dinner," said Hyson as he ced the packed meal on the kitchen counter. "See, how thoughtful he is. He knew you''d be feelingzy and he brought dinner right to you. Don''t forget to say thanks to him."

    "Are you teaching me how to treat my boyfriend?" questioned Cloe.

    Hyson shrugged as he picked up his cap and mask, saying, "Anyway, I should take my leave now as well. My beautifuldies must be anxious by now."

    "Okay," replied Cloe.

    Hyson turned to tease her, "Oh? Before your boyfriend came, you were insisting on keeping me for dinner. And now that you got your boyfriend here, you can''t wait to get rid of me? What a loyal fan you are!"

    Cloe made a face at him and smiled sweetly at Cui Xukun before she rushed up to Hyson''s side and said, "An idol like you should be understanding as well."

    "I''m very understanding," replied Hyson as he put on his mask. "And I have no mood of being the third wheeler as well." As he wore his cap, he leaned close to her ear and whispered, "Don''t forget to say thanks to him."

    "I know, I know," Cloe was speaking casually but when she saw his suggestive gaze, she hit his arm. "What nonsense are you thinking about? Are you even old enough for this discussion? Go, go home."

    Hysonughed out loud as he left her apartment.

    Cloe felt like her cheeks were burning right now. She had to take several deep breaths to calm down before she turned around to walk back to Cui Xukun.

    "Why aren''t you taking a seat?" asked Cloe when she noticed how he still stood there.

    "I just came to bring you dinner," replied Cui Xukun. "I should not stay for long."

    Seeing him acting like this, Cloe''s brows knitted up. She closed to him and asked, "What''s up with you?"

    "Nothing," replied Cui Xukun still feeling down. He didn''t even know why he was feeling this way but he did. He couldn''t help looking at Cloe and thinking whether he really deserved her? Today, for the first time, he realized that he also was such an insecure person.

    Cloe took another step closer to him and said, "But I still haven''t thanked you for the dinner."

    "Huh?" Cui Xukun was dumbfounded. "There is no need for that." He didn''t think there was a need for thanks from her. Wouldn''t that make them seem even more distant?

    Cloe smiled at him as she ced her hand on his chest and said, "Oh, no. I think there is a need for that." Cui Xukun''s body stiffened when she ced her hand on his chest. She took another step over and he stepped back. His legs hit the couch and he had nowhere to escape. Cloe''s smile widened as she pushed him down making him fall on the couch.

    Cui Xukun''s eyes widened and before he could react, her lips crashed into his making his eyes pop. His heartbeat was going thump thump so loudly that he could only hear the sound of his heartbeat in his ears. His mind nked and he felt like his blood was rushing up to his head.

    Cloe was taking Raelle''s advice very seriously. Especially when Hyson echoed the same thoughts. Besides, it wasn''t just because of those two. She really felt like kissing this boyfriend of hers who seemed to love overthinking. His reaction was amusing.

    Being still for half a minute, he ced his hand on the back of her head and cooperated with the kiss. Even though his head was feeling in the clouds, he couldn''t stop himself from enjoying this moment. The moment that belonged to the two of them. This moment when her breath intermingled with his. Their hearts were beating together.. Their lips were moving in sync.

 Chapter 482 - Back Garden

    Xiang Wai prepared herself a cup of coffee the first thing after taking a shower in the morning. Holding the cup, she went to sit on a recliner as she looked out the ss walls. Looking at the city that was slowly waking up, she was lost in her thoughts.

    In fact, she was trying toe up with a n for today. It seemed this matter needed a lot of thinking. Since she was suspended, for now, she really had no idea how to spend her day. She couldn''t go over and bug her brother again. It''s not like she couldn''t, in fact, she didn''t want to. She knew Xiang Weimin would worry about her if she went to see him out of nowhere again.

    To be honest, she didn''t take this suspension as seriously as the people around her. It wasn''t the end of the world. However, it was true that apart from work, she really had no idea what to do with her life.

    She neither had friends to hang out with nor did she have hobbies. That really made it difficult for her.

    It wasn''t always like that. When she was in school, she was a social butterfly who was popr with her peers. Even with her temper, she had a vast social circle. But now after a decade or so, it was all different. From the moment she joined the military academy, she was on a different path than those friends of hers. And now, it was even more difficult to cross paths. They all had drifted far apart.

    She rubbed her forehead as she sighed, "It seems I really have nothing to do."

    That thought alone was frustrating enough for her. She couldn''t possibly spend her whole day on the bed or even cooped up at her house. That wasn''t just who she was. She didn''t like being alone all that much.

    She stood up and decided to clean up this apartment she had bought years ago. But the number of days she spent here was even less than a month. She was either out on missions sleeping in all sorts of weird ces or she''d be found crashing in a military dormitory. She didn''t even know why she bothered taking this apartment as her birthday present from her father when she turned eighteen.

    Even after cleaning the whole apartment upside down, she had only managed to spend 2 hours and it was currently just a bit past 9 o''clock. Truly, time was too slow.

    Whipping herself something to eat, she dressed up and decided to hit the road. It was a lot better than being inside her apartment all alone. Subconsciously, she drove to the military base and when she noticed it, she was already at the gate of the military base.

    "What a pathetic life you have, Wai," she grumbled to herself as she hit the steering wheel but still drove in the military base. She was already here. It was better to just go in than anything else.

    "Major!" a few of the officers greeted her and saluted as they saw her.

    Xiang Wai made her way towards the ce where military dogs were kept. Since she had no friends, she''d rather spend her time with animals. This ce wasn''t unfamiliar to her and neither was her presence out of the ordinary to people there. Everyone knew how much Major Xiang Wai loved animals.

    If she had nothing to do, she''de to y with the dogs. Although military dogs were a lot more aggressive than normal dogs, they''d turn into obedient pets around her. Some people said she had a strong affinity with animals. And it was true as well. No matter what kind of an animal, she''d always be able to build a friendship with them.

    Now, even when she just walked to the dogs'' area, the dogs who were eating their food obediently ran to her side at once and started barking, licking, and circling around her. Xiang Wai kneeled down on the ground and petted the dogs one by one with a big smile on her face.

    "Haiz! It''s been a year these dogs saw her and they still remember her all too well,"mented the officer who usually was tasked to look after the dogs.

    "Major Xiang really loves these dogs," said the other person beside him. "I heard she always manages to build a bond with animals."

    "That''s true. Once on a rescue mission during and sliding, she was almost bitten by a python. Later on, that python became her pet."

    "Really?"

    "Of course! It''s just that she doesn''t have time to take care of pets. So, when she had to leave for a mission, she set the python free back into the wilderness."

    "It''s hard to believe that she can be so good with animals. I heard she has a bad temper and she is always impulsive and impatient."

    "Don''t always believe in rumors."

    On the side, Xiang Wai happily yed with the dogs and instructed them to go back to eat. Then she stood up and went to wash her hands and face.

    "Major Xiang!"

    Xiang Wai looked at the man and raised her brow, "Oh, aren''t you Ming Si from my brother''s Combat Wing?"

    "Yes!"

    "What is it?"

    "I was wondering if Major Xiang knows when Lieutenant Colonel Xiang ising back."

    "That''ll take a while," replied Xiang Wai. "You''ll have to wait for a couple of months." She frowned and added, "But I heard that the research center offered him to be a part of the research team. I''m not sure if he epted that or not."

    "Thank you, Major Xiang!"

    "My information isn''t even that detailed," said Xiang Wai. "You can get back to work. My brother is recovering well."

    "Yes!"

    Xiang Wai sighed to herself, "Ge sure has a good reputation. Unlike me. Even if I disappear, I think no one would even bother asking about me.." She shook her head and walked around the base aimlessly as if it was her back garden.

 Chapter 483 - Took Me Seriously

    While walking around, she came across Zhai Yanjun. He had just found time to take a rest after the morning drill and seeing Xiang Wai, he wanted to just take a step back and leave. And that''s exactly what he did, he indeed took a turn and wanted to leave.

    "You! Stop right where you are!" came Xiang Wai''s voice from behind.

    Zhai Yanjun wanted to pretend like he didn''t hear her. But how could she let that happen?

    "Captain Zhai, aren''t you getting gutsy? How dare you ignore your superior''s order?"

    Zhai Yanjun clenched his teeth and turned around. He raised his hand and gave her a salute. Xiang Wai almost rolled her eyes at his performance.

    She beckoned him over with her two fingers. When he didn''t, she didn''t ask again. Instead, she stepped over to his side and said, "Are you that scared of me?"

    "Nothing goodes out of staying with you," he replied to her.

    Xiang Wai snickered, "Sure. I wasn''t born to do good anyway." Noticing how he was still not paying any attention to her, she narrowed her eyes at him, "Come with me. I have something to talk to you about."

    "I believe we have nothing to talk about," retorted Zhai Yanjun in defiance. "I believe you can''t use your authority for personal matters? Especially when you''re still suspended."

    "Ah! Thanks for the reminder," said Xiang Wai. "Stop being a stuck up. It won''t take long."

    Zhai Yanjun thought about it for a moment before saying, "Fine. I''ll see you at lunch. The usual ce."

    "Okay," agreed Xiang Wai and with that, she left.

    Seeing her receding back, his brows furrowed up, "What are you up to now?" But of course, he won''t be receiving an answer unless he asked this question to her. And that''s what he intended to do as well. Even if they weren''t part of the same squadron or unit, it didn''t change the fact that she had a higher rank than him and he couldn''t avoid her for life.

    Xiang Wai was walking back to her car when she caught sight of something. When she saw two officers being all so sneaky, she didn''t even have to think to know what they were up to. She followed them to the back of the building and coughed.

    "Ahem!"

    The two young officers were so startled that they trembled. When they turned to look at Xiang Wai''s face, their faces paled.

    "Maj-Major Xiang!"

    Xiang Wai extended her hand towards them, "Give it to me."

    "What are you talking about, Major?"

    Xiang Wai''s face turned serious, "You either give it to me, or I''m gonna drag you to yourmander."

    They panicked and hurriedly shoved the pack of cigarettes and lighter into her hand saying, "Please, don''t report it to themander!"

    Xiang Wai yed with the lighter in her hand and shook her head, "Don''t you know the rules of the base? How did you even enter the base if you don''t know the rules?" She had an evil light in her eyes as she said, "How about I make you drink a ss of water mixed with cigarette ash?"

    Just the thought of them made their faces change colors. They didn''t want to go through that punishment. And they knew she wasn''t lying. She''d actually do if she said she would.

    "30 runs around the ground with your luggage!"manded Xiang Wai with a smile.

    "Huh?"

    "40!" she raised the number just like that.

    The two young officers took the run for their lives and hurriedly vanished.

    Xiang Wai looked at the cigarette in her hand and pushed it into her pocket. She went to her car and drove out of the base. The usual ce that Zhai Yanjun was talking about was actually a small noodle restaurant near the military base.

    She arrived first and patiently waited for Zhai Yanjun. At precisely 12:10 pm he walked inside the restaurant and looked around. Finding her at their usual spot, he walked over, pulled the chair, and sat down.

    Xiang Wai looked up at him and smiled, "You''re here. I thought you''d note."

    "I said I''de," he retorted. He suddenly frowned and shouted, "You''re smoking again?"

    Xiang Wai looked around at the other customers and pulled him down, "Take it easy and sit down. Don''t make a scene out of nowhere."

    "I''m making a scene?" he questioned. "I thought you stopped smoking!"

    "I have quit," she told him. "And it''s been years. Thest time I smoked was back in high school. Do you have to bring it up again?"

    "Then what''s that?" Zhai Yanjun pointed at the pack of cigarettes peeking out of her pocket. "How can you lie to my face?"

    Xiang Wai rolled her eyes, "It''s not mine." She took out the cigarette and lighter, cing it on the table, "I confiscated it from people of your squadron. So, don''t go around ming me for everything. Not everything is always my fault."

    "Really?" he asked. "The reason why we are here today is definitely because of you. How am I supposed to not me you for everything?"

    Xiang Wai calmly listened to him and sneered, "You''re saying that our rtionship failed because of me?"

    "Isn''t that the truth?" he rebutted. "It''s you who was tired of this rtionship. Not me."

    Xiang Wai chuckled, "Zhai Yanjun, before questioning me, have you ever bothered to question yourself? If I got tired of trying, why did it happen? If I could cope with this rtionship for ten years, what made me get tired of it?"

    "You''re saying it''s because of me?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "Is it that hard to believe?" questioned Xiang Wai. "This rtionship ended because you wanted it to end. Not because I got tired of it. Don''t act like a victim here."

    "Why should I not end this rtionship when you never even took me seriously?"

    "My life''s biggest mistake had been to always take you way more seriously than I was supposed to!" retorted Xiang Wai.

 Chapter 484 - Villain

    After saying that Xiang Wai didn''t feel like talking again. She actually regretted asking him out. As she looked at his face, she was lost in deep thought. In that one minute, she seemed to have seen thest ten years of their rtionship sh past her eyes.

    If she was being honest, they never had a perfect rtionship. There was nothing sweet about their rtionship either. But she wondered why she insisted on dragging it for so long. As her eyes gained focus and she looked at his face, that''s when it struck her. Ah! He was the reason she insisted on dragging the wed rtionship they shared.

    Taking a deep breath Zhai Yanjun asked, "Why did you call me out?" He didn''t wait for her response and added, "If you want to get back together, that''s not happening."

    Xiang Wai snickered, "I''m not that desperate." She felt likeughing at herself as went on, "I was the one who always asked for reconciliation but that doesn''t mean I''ll do it again." She had no such desire left inside of her. "If you have forgotten, let me remind you. When the very first time we got together, I told you, if one day you asked me to walk out of your life. I will do it!" She sighed out, "Our previous breakups were my doing and that''s why I was willing to go back to you again and again. This time, you''re the one who asked to end this rtionship."

    With her reminder, Zhai Yanjun did seem to recall those words. Indeed, she had said that she''ll walk out once he asked her to and that''d be the end of it. And it was also true that in their rtionship of ten years, it was the first time he had initiated the breakup. It gave him inexplicable feeling suddenly.

    He tried to control his feelings and asked, "Then why did you call me out?"

    "To ask why you''re avoiding me," she replied straightforwardly. "It''s not like murdered someone. You seem to be running from me."

    "When did I?" he retorted.

    Xiang Wai rolled her eyes in an udylike manner, "Do I have to remind you of that too? Let''s take today for instance. As soon as you saw me, you tried to run away. Am I wrong?"

    "Yes," his voice raised since he was trying to hide his guilty conscience. "You''re wrong. I wasn''t running from you. I just forgot something and wanted to go back to get it."

    Xiang Wai continued to look at him intently, "I have shared a bed with you for years. Do you really think I can''t tell when you''re lying?"

    That shut up Zhai Yanjun instantly. Indeed, they had shared a bed for so long, how could she not be able to tell when he was lying? Especially when she was already very good at reading people. It was a lot easier for her to read him.

    Xiang Wai didn''t wait for his answer and waved her hand saying, "Let''s forget about it. Whatever the reason is, you have to get over it. My brother is staying with your family, if you kept up this act, it''ll make it very difficult for me. Don''t make it moreplicated than it already is. You know very well that I hateplicated things."

    "Is that reason why it was so easy for you to move on from our rtionship?" he asked. "Because it wasplicated, you decided to give up on it?"

    "I might be the biggest person in anyone''s life but you!" she started with a leveled tone but her aura was raging now. "You don''t get to call me a viin. Not now! Not ever!"

    Zhai Yanjun wanted tough at himself. Was he really not supposed to call her a viin? He asked for a separation and she agreed. Just when he wanted her to hold on, she didn''t even make an effort to do so. She just chose to let him go. But suddenly he didn''t know whether he was supposed to me her for that or not? She had always been like that.

    Since he was the one asking for a breakup, she''d do nothing about it. She''d never beg for something even if she needed it the most in her life. She never even bothered asking for her mother when she needed her the most.

    But just because of that one thing, he really didn''t get tobel her as a viin. Just as she had said, she might be the viin to anyone in this world but not him.

    Gathering up his thoughts, Zhai Yanjun looked at her deeply and asked, "I have a question. Do you mind answering it honestly?"

    "Go ahead," she said.

    "Have you ever loved me?" he questioned.

    Xiang Wai found this question to be quite funny. So funny that she actually ended upughing out loud. There seemed to be tears in her eyes which she wiped with the back of her hand as she faced him. No one could tell the tears were fromughing so much or because of some other reason.

    She ced her hands on the table and asked, "What do you think? Do you really even have to ask that question? Shouldn''t you know it better whether I have loved you or not? It''s not like you couldn''t feel it yourself."

    Zhai Yanjun couldn''t argue with that. There had never been a time when she had made him question her feelings for him. She had always been the kind of person who would show her feelings outrightly. She didn''t have to conceal anything. While it''s true that she had never been vocal about her feelings, she would do everything else to show her feelings.

    "But if you still want to hear it," said Xiang Wai. "Then I don''t mind telling you that I''ve loved you.. I might be a fool but I''m not foolish enough to waste my youth on a boy I didn''t even love." She leaned on the table as she stared right into his eyes, "What about you, Yanjun? Have you ever loved me?"

 Chapter 485 - Buy A New Brother

    Zhai Yanjun was stunned by her question. He ced his hands on his knees and answered, "You have always been very important to me."

    Xiang Wai chuckled, "You still don''t get it, do you?" He raised his brow at her as she continued, "There is a difference between being loved and being important to someone. There is no doubt that you believe I''m important to you but you never loved me."

    "I have," he argued.

    "You should at least stop lying to yourself now," said Xiang Wai. "Those words had never been even able to fool me, I wonder how you managed to fool yourself for so long that you love me?" She rubbed her forehead as she went on, "You want to know why I stopped fighting for our rtionship? It''s because I didn''t want you to force yourself to love me. I know you feel like you owe me something and you wanted to pay me back by being in this rtionship. But that''s now how love works. I''d rather see you live happily with someone else than see you forcing yourself to be with me."

    "I never had to force myself to be with you," he said. Deep down, he knew that he felt like he owed her way too much. He owed this life to her, after all. If it wasn''t for her, he''d have long killed himself. But he didn''t think that was the reason why he was with her. "Believe it or not, but I did love you."

    Xiang Wai smiled at him, "Fine, I believe you. But that''s all. There is nothing else left between us. I want you to stop feeling like you owe me something. You don''t. We both knew what we''re getting into when we started our rtionship." She ran a hand over her face and added, "But now that it''s over, I just don''t want you to be so awkward around me. Our families are still close. I don''t want this to be an issue in the future."

    Zhai Yanjun stared at her face, trying to find something but he couldn''t find anything at all. He sighed to himself and stood up. "I need to go back to the base. Anyway, I promise I will not try to avoid you anymore."

    "That''s good," replied Xiang Wai and didn''t even try to stop him to stay for lunch.

    However, once he left, she leaned back into the wooden chair and closed her eyes. That stifling feeling in her heart was unbearable and she truly felt exhausted. Once she opened her eyes again, all the haziness from her eyes had disappeared.

    She was already here and didn''t feel like walking out on an empty stomach. She ordered a bowl of extra spicy noodles. As if the chili was not enough, she even poured more hot sauce into the noodles before slurping it down heartily. It was obvious that the noodles soup was spicy but she didn''t care. Her eyes teared up, her nose was stinging, even her tongue was tingling but she didn''t pay attention to any of it.

    After she was done with the meal, she went to the bathroom and washed her face with cold water. Looking at her reflection, she frowned. Her eyes were red from crying, so was her nose. Her tongue had already gone numb from the stimtion of chili. Wiping her face with a paper towel, she walked out as if nothing happened.

    Sitting inside her car, she leaned her head back on the seat and wondered out loud, "I don''t even have a drinking buddy. What a tragedy!"

    She took her phone and scrolled through her contacts. In the end, her finger hovered about her brother''s contact details and whispered, "Sorry, Ge! It seems I really have no one else to bother." With that, she pressed Xiang Weimin''s contact number to call.

    "What''s up, Wai?"

    "Ge, how about having drinks with me tonight?" she suggested cheerily.

    "I''m a patient right now," reminded Xiang Weimin.

    "It''s okay. I''ll drink, you just watch me and give me somepany," said Xiang Wai.

    "Wow! That''s so heartless of you,"mented Xiang Weimin.

    "Ge, I''ll bring chicken wings for you and also some coke! I think it''s a good deal."

    Xiang Weimin''s brows furrowed up and he asked, "You okay?"

    "I am," she replied even though her body had stiffened once he asked that. However, she didn''t even miss a beat to reply to not make him get suspicious of anything.

    "Then why the thought of drinking all of a sudden?"

    "It''s because I''m off duty," she replied. "I can''t drink on duty. Now that I have the chance, I thought I should let loose a little. It''s not like we get such opportunities every day."

    Although she sounded reasonable, he still felt something was up with his sister. However, he didn''t pry it. He knew if he asked anymore, she might drop the idea ofing to see him altogether. She had never liked being questioned. But even if he didn''t know what was up with her, that didn''t mean he couldn''t be there for her.

    Especially when she was the one reaching out to him. And that was rare in itself. How could let this chance slip by?

    "Thene over," he said. "Bring some spicy chicken feet as well."

    "Alright!" Xiang Wai was happy to hear that. "Anything else do you want?"

    "Buy some beer," he added.

    "You can''t drink," she reminded him this time.

    "I''m telling you to only buy beer. Don''t buy any other hard liquor. You are not very good with alcohol anyway."

    Xiang Wai continued to listen to his instructions as he even told her how many cans of beers she was allowed to drink and how many she was supposed to buy. He won''t even allow her to get drunk. Seriously, her brother was not a good drinking buddy. But he was all she got. She had to make do with him.. It''s not like she could buy a new brother now.

 Chapter 486 - Partial

    Hyson was leisurely descending down the stairs, looking bored. Today, he had spent the whole day at home and now he was really bored. The beautifuldies at home had been busy since morning. He didn''t think that many people wereing for dinner, then why were thesedies so excited. Although he could annoy his dear Opa, he still refrained from doing so.

    When did he get Raelle''s disease? It was her who always felt restless when she had nothing to do. Why was he bing like her? Didn''t he love toze around like a rice worm?

    What Hyson didn''t know yet was that it wasn''t just Raelle. Raelle got this disease in her genes. No matter which person you pick from the Xiang family, every single one was a workaholic who would feel ufortable if they had nothing to do.

    *Ding-Dong!*

    Hyson turned his head towards the door when he heard the doorbell. Seeing that he was closest to the door right now, he didn''t wait for any house help toe and open the door. He stepped up and opened the door himself. And when he saw those familiar faces, he was stunned momentarily.

    "Hi!" waved Fang Yiwen.

    "Xiao Fai!" followed Pei Zi Hong.

    "Hello!" greeted Huang Shuyi.

    Lin Zhen smiled sheepishly at Hyson and said, "How are you doing, Little Fai?"

    "What the..." Hyson didn''t know how else to react right now. He didn''t think he would be seeing these jokers at his home? What happened? "How are you all here?"

    Before Lin Zhen could answer his question, Mu Chenyan had already hurried over, "Oh, our guests are here." She bumped into Hyson, "Fai, why aren''t you inviting them inside?"

    Hyson pointed at his group mates and asked, "You invited them?"

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head jollily, "Of course, I did. I asked you so many times to call them over for dinner but you didn''t listen. So,st time when Lin Zhen was here, I asked him to bring the others. Isn''t it good? You all get to gather like this before you leave tomorrow."

    Since it was Mu Chenyan who invited them, Hyson had nothing to say. It wasn''t like he didn''t want his group mates toe over here. He really liked these older brothers he got from his job. Earlier he was just taken aback at seeing them here all of a sudden. It was unexpected so he couldn''t process it well.

    "Don''t just stand there," said Hyson. "Come inside."

    Mu Chenyan held Hyson''s arm and nodded at them, "Yes, yes. Come inside already."

    The four men looked at Mu Chenyan''s excitement and felt quite weed. They actually didn''t believe Lin Zhen when he told them Hyson''s family was easygoing and made him feelfortable. But now they had to re-evaluate his words.

    "Miss Mu," called Lin Zhen. "We brought some gifts."

    Mu Chenyan looked at the things they were holding and frowned, "Aiyah! Why bother with such formality? Didn''t I tell you to juste over? There was no need for these gifts."

    "We couldn''t possiblye empty-handed when you invited us warmly," replied Lin Zhen.

    "You really know how to talk," said Mu Chenyan and sighed. "Fine. This time I''ll take these gifts. Don''t bother with this the next time."

    "Okay," Lin Zhen readily agreed. "Oh, I should do some introduction."

    "There is no need for that," stated Mu Chenyan. "I know all of them. That''s Fang Yiwen who loves to y games. You guys call him a vampire because he has the paler skin in your group." Fang Yiwen didn''t know how to react when she said it. "Then we have Huang Shuyi. He loves to sleep." Huang Shuyi absolutely didn''t care at all because what she said was the truth. Why bother feeling embarrassed? "And you must be Pei Zi Hong. The Young Master, who is a little rebellious. Oh, and you also are in a rtionship with a top actress."

    Pei Zi Hong''s eyes widened when he heard that. The rest of his group members except for Hyson also turned to look at him. They all knew he was in a rtionship but until now, only Hyson knew the identity of that partner of his. Now that Mu Chenyan mentioned she was a top actress, they looked at Pei Zi Hong with burning eyes.

    Pei Zi Hong cleared his throat and smiled sheepishly.

    "Ah! I wasn''t supposed to say that," Mu Chenyan scratched her head. She looked at Pei Zi Hong and said, "Sorry! It just slipped."

    Pei Zi Hong wouldn''t dare to be upset with her. Especially since he actually liked this warmhearteddy who kept chatting excitedly with them. "It''s okay. It''s not that big of a secret."

    "Then you guys, make yourselffortable. I''ll send some drinks for you all," stated Mu Chenyan and ran back to the kitchen before she could say anything she wasn''t supposed to.

    "Don''t just stand there," said Hyson. "Sit down already."

    "That was...?" questioned Pei Zi Hong.

    "That''s Yanyan," answered Hyson and shook his head. "I mean she is my godmother. There isn''t much difference between her and my mum. So, I hope you don''t mind whatever she said."

    "You''re really close to her,"mented Pei Zi Hong. Since Mu Chenyan know so much about them, it meant that Hyson loved to talk to her about everything.

    Hyson smiled at him," That''s true. I share everything Yanyan. Even the things that Mum doesn''t know, she knows." He grinned as he added, "And that''s why I might have mentioned your girlfriend to her as well. Sorry!"

    "As I just said, it isn''t that big of a secret," said Pei Zi Hong nonchntly.

    "Then howe none of us know the identity of your girlfriend?" questioned Huang Shuyi. "You said it isn''t a secret. Then why don''t any of us know?"

    Fang Yiwen stared at Hyson, "Even our group''s mascot knows.. But none of us does. Is it okay to be so partial now?"

 Chapter 487 - Threats

    Pei Zi Hong red at them for cornering him like that. "Instead of being so invested in my love life, why don''t you all look for your own?!"

    In response to that, Huang Shuyi yawned saying, "Ah! So sleepy!"

    Fang Yiwen turned his attention to the interior of the house andmented, "I thought your house would have a grand scene. Why is it so in and feels so cozy instead?"

    Hyson smiled at the way they were avoiding the topic and replied to Fang Yiwen, "Wen Ge, no one likes a grand scene around here. A home should feel like a home. What''s the point of it if it won''t make you feelfortable?"

    "That''s also true," agreed Fang Yiwen.

    Pei Zi Hong snickered and pointed at the painting on the wall saying, "Yiwen, do you see that? That painting is called the ''The Dawn of Tomorrow.'' Do you know at what price it was auctioned?"

    "Is it expensive?" asked Fang Yiwen.

    "Of course!" replied Pei Zi Hong.

    Fang Yiwen nodded his head, "Now, I get it. It''s the grandness in details."

    "Don''t talk nonsense," said Hyson.

    Soon, the drinks were served with some snacks.

    "Eat," said Hyson. "Oh, but don''t eat so much. There isn''t that much time for dinner. You won''t be able to eatter if you ate too many snacks."

    "Don''t worry about that,"mented Huang Shuyi. "We can eat well."

    Hyson snorted, "Oh, please! As if I don''t know how well you all can eat. You all eat like birds. But let me warn you. I don''t wanna hear anyone of you say that you''re on diet. My mum and Yanyan had been cooking for so long. You better eat well. And you better eat till you can''t eat anymore at all!"

    "Woah! Fai, are you threatening us now?" questioned Lin Zhen.

    "If that''s what it seems like," retorted Hyson. "The best appreciation for a chef is if people eat the food he cooked. You better show your appreciation. If any of you didn''t eat well, I''m gonna throw you all out!"

    "When did you be so unreasonable?"

    "I''m very unreasonable when ites to my family," replied Hyson. He straightened up and smiled politely like a host, "Now, please enjoy."

    "This is not the way to treat guests,"mented Fang Yiwen.

    "What guests? I treat you all like my brothers," reminded Hyson. "And you all gave me the right to be the unreasonable one since I''m the youngest. Don''t go changing your face now."

    Lin Zhen shook his head, "Fai is right. Act like older brothers and you better listen to him."

    "Oh, hi, Fai!" Hyson looked up and saw Shui Koshing who was smiling at him. "Oh, hey, boys! I didn''t know you all areing as well. That''s a pleasant surprise."

    "Hello, Mr. Shui," greeted Lin Zhen and the rest.

    "Don''t be so uptight again," said Shui Koshing.

    "Uncle Shing, you really came?" asked Hyson.

    Shui Koshing grinned, "Didn''t I tell you yesterday I''lle over to freeload? And besides, it''s like a farewell dinner for our Fai. I have toe. Wouldn''t you feel like something is missing if I''m not around?"

    Hyson nodded certainly, "I definitely would feel your absence."

    Shui Koshing was happy to hear that. "Where is Uncle?"

    "Opa is in his room," answered Hyson.

    "Alright. You sit with your guests then. I''m gonna check up on Uncle."

    "Is it just me or does Mr Shui look even more energetic than thest time we saw him?" questioned Huang Shuyi as he watched Shui Koshing leave.

    "Uncle Shing is certainly getting energetic," agreed Hyson without any hesitation. He could also see that Shui Koshing had been more lively and activetely. It was like he was getting younger. And Hyson even knew that had something to do with Raelle. Of course, he didn''t realize that he also had contribution in this feet.

    "Are there more peopleing over?" asked Pei Zi Hong.

    "I think so," answered Hyson. "But as for how many, that I am not so sure about."

    "I asked Rourou to take care of you," said Pei Zi Hong. "So, if you need anything, just let her know. Don''t hesitate at all."

    "Zi Hong Ge, I''m not a kid," said Hyson not knowing whether to cry orugh at this.

    "Because of what happenedst time, I am more inclined to believe that you are a kid who can lose his way," replied Pei Zi Hong. "That''s why I''m not reassured. I''m sure Rourou would keep an eye on you this time and make sure you don''t go astray."

    "That sounds so strange,"mented Hyson.

    "Rourou?" repeated Fang Yiwen. As if he got enlightened, he cursed out loud, "Fuck! Zi Hong, you bastard! You''re datingmy goddess He Rou?!"

    Pei Zi Hong covered his mouth and red at him, "Keep your voice down. We are here as guests. Don''t let people see how uncultured you are."

    Fang Yiwen bit his hand making Pei Zi Hong hiss in pain.

    "What the hell? Now, you''ve started to bite as well? What next? Gonna suck my blood like a vampire?"

    "I feel like doing so," gritted out Fang Yiwen. He was feeling so betrayed right now. Who didn''t know that he had always been a big fan of He Rou? She was his goddess! But now, he was told that his friend was actually dating his goddess! How could he not feel betrayed?

    Lin Zhen was also a little surprised by the identity of Pei Zi Hong''s girlfriend but he had never gotten involved in his group mates personal lives as long as it didn''t affect their professional life. So, he patted Fang Yiwen''s shoulder and whispered, "Rx! Take a deep breath. You need to think about it with a calm mind. No need to be so aggressive about it." He took a pause when he noticed that Fang Yiwen seemed to be listening to him and added, "In your anger, don''t forget that Pei Zi Hong is your closest friend."

    Hearing this, Fang Yiwen deted like a balloon. True, Pei Zi Hong was his closest friend.. He couldn''t possibly do anything about this.

 Chapter 488 - Precious Ones

    "Do you know in Norwegian, you don''t refer to your romantic partner as ''boyfriend'' or ''girlfriend''. You say ''kj?reste'', which is gender-neutral and it literally trantes to ''the dearest''," Shui Xian was telling Raelle when they entered through the door of the Xiang Manor. He had one of his arms wrapped around her neck and the other hand held her hand as he yed with her slender fingers, particrly enjoying himself. "Isn''t it heartwarming?"

    "Is it?" was Raelle''s response. "I heard in Swedish you refer to your boyfriend or girlfriend by saying ''?lskling'' which trantes into ''my beloved one''."

    "Oh?" Shui Xian quirked his brow at his wife. "Baby, why do you know about this?"

    "I heard it when I was there thest time," answered Raelle.

    "That sounds sweet," said Shui Xian. His face was leaning close to hers as he whispered, "So, should I start calling you, my dearest or my beloved one?"

    "Drop it," said Raelle. "We havepany."

    Shui Xian''s brows furrowed up and he looked up. Only then did he see Hyson and his group mates. "Wow! The face value of this living room is too high tonight."

    "Hi to you too Xian Ge," said Hyson with a smile.

    Lin Zhen and the others immediately stood up once they heard Shui Xian''s voice. "Master Xian." They greeted him.

    "Take it easy guys," said Shui Xian.

    "He isn''t here as your boss," came Raelle''s voice as her eyes were on her cellphone. She didn''t even look up as she continued, "He is just as much of a guest tonight as you are."

    "Guest?" Shui Xian looked at his wife. "I thought I was a member of the family."

    "Family?" repeated Raelle. "Even I''m not counted as a family member, how do you?"

    "Who said you aren''t a family member?" questioned Hyson. "Ellie, don''t talk nonsense. Yanyan might start a war here if she heard it."

    "But it''s the truth," replied Raelle. "After getting married, don''t I be a member of the Shui family?"

    Hyson came over to knock on her head, "That doesn''t mean you are no longer a part of the Xiang family."

    "True!" agreed Shui Xian.

    Raelle ignored these two and looked at the others in the room. "Why are you all still standing? Make yourselffortable. Your Master Xian isn''t here to y the role of the boss. If you want to be polite, try it at thepany. Currently, you''re here as Hyson''s guests. Besides, Hyson calls you older brothers. I don''t see a need for you to be so formal."

    Lin Zhen and the rest didn''t know how to react to her words at all. Apart from Lin Zhen, the rest were still processing the fact that Raelle was Shui Xian''s wife. Although not all of them were familiar with Raelle''s status, that didn''t mean they didn''t have eyes to see. They could tell she wasn''t a simple character.

    "That''s very nice of you, President Raelle," said Lin Zhen. "But I believe we should still keep our manners. It''s not right for us to forget that Master Xian is our boss."

    "What is Hyson to you?" questioned Raelle.

    Lin Zhen was taken aback by that question but he still answered, "He is like a younger brother to me."

    "So is he to me," added Shui Xian and smiled at them. "And since he is like a younger brother to all of us, I don''t see why we have to continue this discussion."

    Raelle went to sit beside Hyson and asked, "B¨¤ came here?"

    Hyson nodded his head, "He is with Opa."

    Raelle nodded, "I believe I don''t have to ask about the other twodies. They must be in the kitchen even now."

    "Obviously!" Hyson suddenly perked up and hugged Raelle saying, "I forgot to introduce you all. Guys, this is my best friend, Raelle Xiang. Although she doesn''t have that many redeeming qualities, she is still all I have got."

    "As if you have a lot of redeeming qualities," Raelle retorted.

    "Ha!" Hyson made a sound. "Ellie, don''t forget. My biggest redeeming quality is the fact that you''re my best friend. Tell me, is there anyone else more capable than me? No! Even if you search through the whole world, you won''t find anyone more capable than me."

    "Oh, I disagree," said Shui Xian.

    "Why?" questioned Hyson.

    "I''m the most capable one here. She is my wife," reminded Shui Xian proudly.

    "That isn''t because you''re capable," argued Hyson. "Xian Ge, I love you but let''s face it. You just got lucky."

    "I dotted on you for nothing," sighed Shui Xian.

    "Are you both done?" asked Raelle. "Why are you even arguing? Is there a point? You are my husband and you are my best friend, not because you both are awesome. It''s because I allowed you both to enter my life. In the end, it''s me. It has nothing to do with you two."

    Shui Xian and Hyson were left gaping at her in disbelief while the ones who were watching her had to purse their lips to hide their smiles. They couldn''t help it. It was already funny enough how Shui Xian and Hyson were acting so pettily and childishly. But then Raelle''s answer got them both to shut up which was funnier.

    Shui Xian leaned his head on Raelle''s shoulder and pouted, "Wife, how can you break your husband''s heart like this?"

    "Is your heart so fragile?" asked Raelle. "Get rid of such a fragile heart then."

    "Pfft!" Hysonughed out loud. "I agree! I agree! Xian Ge, get rid of such a fragile heart."

    Shui Xian red at Hyson and stretched his arm over Raelle to reach out to Hyson and pinch his cheek, "Aren''t you the most fragile person around here? I only have a fragile heart! I don''t see how that''s bad."

    "Hey, I''m precious. That''s why I''m fragile," retorted Hyson.

    "Oh, then my heart is also very precious that''s why it''s fragile."

    Raelle was stuck between these children.

 Chapter 489 - Idols

    One was sitting on her left and the other one was on her right. Both were equally childish. Why was she stuck here though? She looked at the boys who were staring at this scene withplicated expressions and offered them her very practiced smile.

    And then she held Shui Xian''s wrist in one hand and Hyson''s ear in the other. With a twist, both of them yelped in pain.

    "Stop it," was all she said and both of them quietened up instantly. Raelle looked at the others who were shocked by this turn of events and said calmly, "I apologize that you had to see all this."

    "There is no need for that, President Raelle," said Lin Zhen.

    Hyson rubbed his ear while Shui Xian was rubbing his wrist. Hyson wasn''t unfamiliar with Raelle''s strength, but Shui Xian hadn''t faced Raelle''s heavy hand yet. It was just a twist, why did it feel like his wrist was almost dislocated? He should refrain from annoying his wife.

    Wait!

    Annoyed?!

    Shui Xian looked at Raelle with a burning gaze and asked, "Wifey, did you just get annoyed?" He was really eager to hear the answer from her.

    Raelle looked at his nkly, "No."

    "No?" Shui Xian''s face fell.

    "She wasn''t annoyed," said Hyson. "She found us troublesome."

    "Oh, it''s the troublesome again!"

    "You should get used to that, Master Xian."

    Shui Xian looked up and raised his brows at the person who was leaning against the doorframe.

    "Chief and that word troublesome is constant," said Cloe.

    "Why are you bing a constant in my life as well?" asked Raelle. "Why are you even here?"

    Cloe stuck her tongue out at her, "Chief, you can''t get rid of me. No matter how you want."

    "Cloe!" called out Hyson. "Good thing you''re here." He was excited to see her.

    "You invited her?" asked Raelle.

    "Of course," replied Hyson. "But I didn''t know Yanyan called these guys. Now that they are here, it''s even better." He pulled Cloe over and said, "Surprise!"

    Cloe looked at Lin Zhen, Fang Yiwen, Huang Shuyi, and Pei Zi Hong and her eyes widened. She covered her mouth and yelled! "AHH!"

    Hyson had to pinch her to stop her from being so loud, "Keep it down. Do you want to let the whole world know?"

    Cloe held Hyson''s arm and jumped up and down in excitement. "Why didn''t you tell me they''d be here? What to do? I wasn''t prepared at all? How should I act? What should I do?"

    "First of all, I suggest you to stop shaking," rmended Hyson. "And second, please stop pulling me. I''m getting dizzy now."

    Cloe let his arm go, "Oh, sorry! I didn''t notice." But that didn''t stop her shaking at all. Her hands were shaking and anyone could see it.

    "This is a surprise,"mented Shui Xian. "Cloe, I don''t think you get this nervous even when you''re facing Raelle."

    "Chief is my enemy," replied Cloe. "I should always keep up my strong front in front of her. I can''t let her see my weakness. But this is different. They are my idols! Oh MY GOD!"

    "When did I be a enemy?" questioned Raelle to herself. "But it doesn''t sound that wrong either." She replied to her own self.

    Hyson shook his head at Cloe and pulled her over. "I don''t really have to do this but I''ll still do it. This is Lin Zhen. Our group''s Zhen Ge. He is the oldest and he is also the leader of the group. That''s Huang Shuyi, Fang Yiwen and Pei Zi Hong." He stood with them and added, "Oh, and I''m Hyson. Now, we lookplete, right?"

    Cloe nodded her head with her eyes sparkling brightly. Ah! She never thought she''d see her favorite idols so close to her at one ce. She already thought she was lucky to have met Hyson. Who knew she''d meet the others as well? This is amazing!

    "Meet Cloe," said Hyson to his group mates. "She is our fan. A super fan. She might have joined the fandomte but don''t doubt her loyalty. She ispletely a devoted fan."

    "I definitely am," added Cloe without feeling embarrassed. "I''ve bought all your albums, and merch as well. I wanted to attend your concert as well but you guys are on hiatus. I can''t be more sad right now because of that."

    "Did I give you so much free time to even be a fangirl now?" questioned Raelle.

    "Chief, you can''t say that," argued Cloe. "I''m a very good employee. The least you can do is allow me to stay happy in my fangirling."

    "And here I thought dating was more important to you."

    "Nope!" she replied. "Idols take priority." She rushed up to grin at her idols and asked, "Can I take a photo with you all? Or how about an autograph?"

    "How about both?" suggested Pei Zi Hong.

    Cloe gave him a toothy grin and nodded her head, "That''d be awesome!" She pushed her phone to Raelle, "Chief, take a couple of pictures."

    "I''m your boss!" reminded Raelle.

    Cloe rolled her eyes, "What boss? Don''t you say I should not treat you as my boss outside of the office? I''m doing exactly that!"

    "Howe you never agreed to that before?" questioned Raelle.

    "Today is special!" said Cloe. "Stop wasting time. They''d been standing for so long already. What if they get tired? We can''t do that to them."

    Raelle had no idea what to think of this situation. Exactly why was she stuck with all these strange creatures in her life? It just didn''t make sense. It really didn''t!

    Even after all that, she held up the phone and asked them to adjust. "Stand a bit closer," said Raelle. "Huang Shuyi, tilt your head. Hyson turn a bit to your right..." And just like that she made them pose before clicking a photo. And then she ordered them to move around before clicking some more.

    As Cloe took back her phone she muttered, "Let me see how you clicked the photos. What if it''s all messed up? It''s my first photo with my idols. It can''t be too bad."

    "Are you doubting me right now?" questioned Raelle.

    "Of course, not," said Cloe but she didn''t sound that convincing at all.

 Chapter 490 - Absolute Fact

    Whether it was Fang Yiwen, Huang Shuyi, or even Pei Zi Hong, all of them had been slightly overwhelmed since the moment they saw Raelle. It was difficult to keep their calm in her presence. Even Shui Xian''s presence didn''t have such an effect on them.

    However, with Cloe''s arrival, things took a different turn. Cloe was exactly like a fangirl who was too excited to see her idols right before her eyes. This idiot even tried poking them to check whether they were real or not. And they found her actions to be quite amusing.

    Even a blind could tell that Cloe was a sessful career woman. For such a person to turn out to be a fangirl was quite a surprise to all of them. And let''s not forget how chatty Cloe became once she confirmed her idols were right with her. The things didn''t end with just photos. She definitely had to take their autographs as well. And then she had to y quiz trivia with them. All in all, she was living the life of a sessful fan!

    Hyson chose to stay away from this excited fangirl and settled down with his best friend. "She looks like she is on a sugar rush." Hyson shook his head, "Where is she getting all this energy from?"

    "When my eyes wereid upon your face, I felt my spirit refreshing. Like the morning dew fell on a flower to make it sparkle with a new passion, your sight gave me the reason to be alive."

    Hyson leaned backward to keep his distance from Raelle as he wondered out loud, "What possessed your body?"

    Raelle faced him and answered, "Nothing. I''m just enlightening you regarding where is she getting all that energy from." She looked in Cloe''s direction and went on, "See her? Her excitement ising from your group mates. It''s obvious. Don''t ask such useless questions."

    Hyson rubbed his arms to soothe the chills rising on his body as he said, "Please, refrain from using literature. You''re a science person. Stay that way. Literature isn''t your field to y."

    "If you say so," replied Raelle.

    Hyson waited for a moment before he opened his mouth to tell her, "I went out yesterday."

    "I know," said Raelle. "Yanyan told me that you went out to meet someone."

    Hyson wasn''t surprised by that. He also heard that Raelle came overst night. And since she didn''t see him, someone must have told her that he went out. "Do you know who I met?"

    "Lieutenant Colonel Xiang Weimin," responded Raelle calmly.

    Hyson stared at her in shock, "How do you know? Are you spying on me now? Did Cloe tell you? No, that can''t be. She didn''t know whom I met there." He was really confused about how she knew it.

    Raelle ced her hand on the back of his head and pushed it down, making him look down at her other hand in which she actually held his phone right now. Seeing that, realization dawned on Hyson and he chuckled awkwardly.

    "Right. You must have seen the call log," said Hyson and pped his own head. "I''m really a fool."

    "That you are," agreed Raelle without any hesitation.

    He didn''t find it strange that his phone was in her hand. After all, he was actually holding her phone right now as well. Mobile phones might be way too personal to people but these two best friends hardly had anything considered personal between them. Raelle had taken his phone because he wanted her to read one of his emails. However, when she unlocked the phone, the call log was already open. It wasn''t her fault that her eyes caught the names on the list along with the time and date.

    It was definitely not intentional, not like she had to spy on him. He hardly had anything in his life worthy of spying on.

    Hyson closed the call log and opened the email for her, "You read this. Pay less attention to other things."

    Raelle didn''t respond and just lowered her eyes to concentrate on the email. But that didn''t mean Hyson stopped talking as he went on, "Well, I did meet Lieutenant."

    "Why are you telling me that?" questioned Raelle, not moving her eyes away from the screen.

    "Because I don''t have a habit of hiding things from you," responded Hyson. "Besides, it had all to do with you."

    "Me? Didn''t he call you out because he is interested in you?"

    Hyson almost choked on air as he red at her, "Shut the fuck up!"

    "Okay," said Raelle.

    Hyson rubbed his forehead, "Maybe I shouldn''t have mentioned this to you."

    "Whether you mention it or not," started Raelle. "It''s not like you don''t know where I stand. Don''t get involved in this. My life has only so much space."

    Hyson snorted, "As if I don''t know that. And I did let him know that as well."

    Raelle looked at Hyson as she passed his phone back to him and said, "Maybe you should stop talking about me. Isn''t it troublesome? What I am, you know better than anyone. But it took you years to figure me out. Why are you giving away your effort of years so easily? Don''t you like feeling special? Isn''t it special enough that only you know me?"

    Hyson sighed out softly, "At the end of the day, I can''t forget that he is your elder brother."

    "I don''t think you go out to see him because he is my elder brother," stated Raelle. "Also, trust me, it''s not that difficult to forget that he is my elder brother. Especially once you consider the fact that we have had nothing to do with each other until now. That''s an absolute fact, you can''t deny."

    Hyson suddenly felt like he did something wrong. Was he not supposed to give advice? Why was he so eager to help others? Such a waste of effort and time.

    "I just felt bad for him," argued Hyson.

    "I have never seen you feeling bad for me," said Raelle.

    Hyson frowned at her, "You? You don''t need that. And you might even chop me into pieces if I so much as had such feeling."

    "I couldn''t possibly agree more with that statement."

    Hyson was left staring at her.. See? She had no problem in chopping him into pieces! What a ridiculously brilliant best friend.

 Chapter 491 - No Good

    Staying true to her words, Xiang Wai dide to the Zhai Family House with her drinks. However, she didn''t enter. Instead, she chose to pick up her brother and took him to her own apartment.

    "What is this ce?" Xian Weimin asked as he entered through the door.

    "It''s my apartment," replied Xiang Wai.

    Xiang Weimin vaguely recalled it and asked, "The one dad gifted you on your eighteenth birthday?"

    "Yup."

    "How many days have you even lived here?" he asked. "This apartment must be cursing you for being its owner."

    "It''s okay. I am used to curses. It doesn''t even affect me anymore," replied Xiang Wai as she took out the drinks and ced them on the table in the living room. "In fact, I''ve managed to ce a filter in my ears. I only hear things that I want to hear. The rest goes to the trash folder."

    Xiang Weimin chuckled at her response and came to sit down. cing his crutches aside, he leaned back on the sofafortably.

    "We could have just done it at Uncle Kuijun''s ce,"mented Xiang Weimin.

    Xiang Wai looked up at her brother, "Ge, just because I don''t care doesn''t mean I am a masochist. I very well know that Uncle Kuijun''s parents don''t like me. I have no reason to go there and be an eyesore to them. Why bother? Why should I put myself through that?"

    "It''s not that Grandpa Zhai nad Grandma Zhai doesn''t like you," said Xiang Weimin. "They just haven''t noticed your good points."

    "I don''t see why they have to see my good points," replied Xiang Wai. "It doesn''t matter to me whether they like me or not. It''s my life and I have lived it to please others."

    She opened the box of fried wings she brought and ced it before Xiang Weimin, "Ge, don''t eat this too much. It''s fried food and it isn''t too good for you. I have brought rice congee for you as well. So, you can eat thatter." She poured him a drink saying, "And enjoy it with sour plum juice. It''ll be refreshing."

    As she instructed him, she opened the can of beer for herself and guzzled it down in one go as she threw her head back. "Ah~ This was good!"

    "What''s on your mind?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    Xiang Wai was holding the chicken wing in her hand as she furrowed her brows and took a bite before asking in return, "What do you mean? My mind ispletely empty."

    "So this drinking party was organized without a reason?"

    Xiang Wai nodded her head, "Don''t you know I love doing things on a whim?"

    "The rims of your eyes are still red," Xiang Weimin pointed it out. "Do you still want to say it''s all on a whim?"

    Xiang Wai''s expressions didn''t even change as she replied, "Why can''t it be on a whim? Let me tell you a funny story. I ordered a bowl of spicy beef noodles and somehow it got extra spicy so I ended up crying for a while. You know I don''t like putting down my chopsticks until and unless I have eaten all the food. So, in the process of finishing the noodles, I shed some precious tears. It was really a funny sight." She evenughed at herself as she continued, "And it was because of all that spiciness that I suddenly thought of having some refreshing beer."

    Xiang Weimin hardly believed in anything she just said. This sister of his was never straightforward in her words or feelings. But since she didn''t want to share, he couldn''t force her either. That won''t work on her anyway.

    "Oh, I met one of yourrades," told Xiang Wai changing the topic instantly. "He looked worried about you. I think you should contact your Combat Wing. It''ll give yourrades some reassurance that you''re recovering well."

    Xiang Weimin nodded, "I''ll do that."

    "Also, what have you thought about the offer?" inquired Xiang Wai curiously.

    "What offer?"

    "Didn''t themander of Kia Military Base ask you to supervise the new research? Isn''t this a good chance for you to get rid of your boring state? After all, you love work. I believe you''d love to go back to what you love."

    Xiang Weimin hummed, "I have been discussing ittely. I received the project details but I''m still thinking about it. Nothing confirmed for now."

    "When did you be sozy?" asked Xiang Wai. "Just get to it already. Don''t just waste time thinking about it."

    Xiang Weimin chuckled, "Fine. I''ll just do it then since you''re so eager to have me back at work."

    "I''m not eager," replied Xiang Wai. "I''d love to see you rest for months but I know you. That restless bug within you won''t let you be at ease. So, it''s good for you to have something keeping you upied. Although you won''t be leading the research. Being the supervisor is good enough."

    "You''re talking quite sensibly today,"mented Xiang Weimin.

    "I have always been sensible," retorted Xiang Wai.

    "Only you think so," said Xiang Weimin.

    Xiang Wai''s face fell a little when she heard that. Indeed, people around her loved to describe her as someone insensible. It''s weird how her own brother even thought that she was the reason why she and Zhai Yanjun didn''t work out. She really couldn''t figure out the reason why.

    But it didn''t matter really. She had been carrying way too many ck pots on her head since she was young. It won''t hurt to carry another one. Whether anyone knew or not, she knew exactly why she and Zhai Yanjun were no good.

    "Drink a bit slowly," said Xiang Weimin when he noticed how she had already emptied 5 cans of beer in no time. "At least, give yourself some break to eat as well. Just drinking won''t help. And if you drink this much, how are you gonna drive me back?"

    "Then don''t go tonight," suggested Xiang Wai. "You can sleep over here. It''s not like there is no extra bedroom. And even if there isn''t. I don''t mind sleeping on the floor.. It won''t be the first time and I ain''t that delicate either."

 Chapter 492 - Class President

    Xiang Weimin looked at her face a moment longer, lost in his thoughts before he said, "Wai, you are delicate."

    Xiang Wai stared at her brother''s face and sneered, "Me? I''m delicate? How? I slept in the middle of a desert. I even slept in a dense forest. I even used snow as a nket. You''re telling me, I''m still delicate?"

    Xiang Weimin shook his head at her, "I was talking about your heart. It''s true that you''re a strong person who has gone through a lot. Otherwise, you wouldn''t have been able to advance in Special Forces. There is no doubt, you do one of the dangerous jobs. But that does not change who you are. You have always been the delicate one." His voice lowered as he added, "Or else, our parents'' divorce wouldn''t have affected you the way it did."

    Xiang Wai went silent when she heard that. She wanted to argue but she knew there was no point in doing that. At the end of the day, the facts were clear. She really took things too hard. If she wasn''t like that, she wouldn''t be here in this condition right now.

    "Ge, do you want to watch tv?" asked Xiang Wai and without waiting for his reply, she looked for the remote and turned on the tv for him.

    She sat cross-legged on the rug, with her back leaning against the coffee table. All he could see was the back of her head. He couldn''t possibly see her expression but he knew she was avoiding talking about it again. If she had nothing to say, she''d look for anything to avoid the situation.

    She shuffled through the channels and in the end, stopped on a channel where a crime drama was ying. Five minutes into the show, she tsked, "The maid is the murderer. Is it that hard to know?"

    Xiang Weimin facepalmed himself, "Why don''t you just quietly watch it?"

    She turned her head towards him, "Ge? Do you have a different opinion?"

    He shook his head, "No. I have eyes. I can also tell the maid is the murderer. But do you have to spoil the show like this? If you want to watch it, just watch it silently. Or change the channel."

    Xiang Wai shrugged, "Fine. Let''s check something else." But she couldn''t find anything else so she stopped at a news channel. "We should just stick with the news."

    *Ring!*

    Xiang Weimin looked around and said, "Your phone is ringing."

    "Huh?" She also looked around for her phone. "Where is it?"

    "How would I know where your phone is?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "True." She stood up and followed the sound of the ringtone to find her phone in the kitchen. It was an unknown number but she still epted the call, "Hello?"

    "Hi! Is it Xiang Wai?" asked the girl from the other side.

    "Yup! That''s me," answered Xiang Wai. "And you are?"

    "That''s wonderful! I''m Tang Ping! Do you remember me?"

    Xiang Wai went through her memory before knitting her brows, "As in my high school ss president, Tang Ping?"

    "Oh my! You really remember!" She sounded so excited. "I thought you wouldn''t remember at all."

    "My memory isn''t that bad," said Xiang Wai.

    "Right. You have always been a bright student, how could your memory be bad." She took a pause and added, "It took me days to find your contact. But thank goodness I finally reached you."

    Xiang Wai wasn''t surprised that it took her days to find her contact. She didn''t have any contact with her high school friends. So, there was hardly anyone who even knew where she was or what she was doing in her life.

    "Is something up? Why were you looking for me?"

    "Oh, oh! It''s because I''m getting married!"

    "Congrattions!" said Xiang Wai.

    "Youe and congrats me in person. That''s why I''m calling you."

    "About that..." Xiang Wai was hesitating.

    "Don''t say no. I have called all of our ss. And it''s been years since we haven''t seen you. Please,e! That''d mean a lot to me. The wedding is in Kia City. If you are not in the city then it can''t be helped. But I hope youe if you''re around."

    Xiang Wai thought about it for a minute before agreeing, "When? And where?"

    "You''reing? Yay!" She heard the smile in her voice and found it amusing. "It''s this weekend. At D.W Resort."

    "Got it! I''ll bring you a big red envelope."

    "Haha! There is no need for that. Instead of your red envelope, I''d be looking forward to seeing you more."

    "See you, ss president."

    "See you soon, ss Queen!"

    Xiang Wai was left chuckling even when she hung up the phone. It''s been years since shest heard someone calling her ss Queen. It still sounded... strange!

    Seeing her smiling like that, Xiang Weimin was surprised and asked, "What''s up?"

    "Nothing much. Just got invited to a wedding," she told him.

    "Are you going?"

    "I have nothing else to do, so why not?" she replied.

    Xiang Weimin nodded. "It''s good. You should go. And enjoy yourself."

    "Do you want toe as my plus one?"

    "No," he answered decisively. "I don''t like weddings."

    "Neither do I," she reminded him. "But ain''t I still going?"

    "You go, I really don''t want to."

    "Suit yourself." She sat down and sighed suddenly, "Ge, but what do I have to do?"

    "What do you mean?"

    "I have never been to a wedding before," she told him. "What am I supposed to bring apart from a red envelope? And how much money is eptable in a red envelope?"

    Xiang Weimin was stumped by her question. In all honesty, he was even less knowledgeable about this then his own sister. Even though he had gotten invited to many weddings by his colleagues, he never went. He always let his subordinate handle the matters of sending red envelopes as well.

    "I don''t know."

    "And here I thought my brother knows everything. What a shame!"

 Chapter 493 - Future

    "Hyson, shouldn''t you show your friends around?" asked Raelle. "Why are you making them sit here and get harassed by her?"

    Cloe whipped her head around and narrowed her eyes at Raelle, "Chief, who is harassing here?"

    "The one who is asking this question," replied Raelle.

    "I am not!" argued Cloe.

    "If you say so."

    Hyson chuckled at them and said, "Zhen Ge,e with me. There is still time for dinner. So, let''s y pool?"

    "Huh? There is a pool table here?" asked Shui Xian curiously when he saw Hyson taking his group members with him.

    "There is a game room in the basement," answered Raelle. "And there is even a music room upstairs."

    "Howe I didn''t know that?" wondered Shui Xian. He hadn''t been to these ces before. What kind of a son-inw was he? He didn''t even see his inws'' ce thoroughly. But then again, he''d only pay attention to his surroundings once his eyes would peel away from Raelle. And that seemed a little impossible right now.

    Seeing that Raelle''s attention was on Shui Xian, Cloe chose to make a run for her life. She was quite bold with her idols around but now, she didn''t even want to look at Raelle. She chose to enter the kitchen to look for a safe haven. And along the way, she''d just help Mu Chenyan with something. It was better than staying here and waiting for Raelle to execute her.

    "Do you want to have another tour of the house?" asked Raelle.

    "Nah! I''d rather spend time with my wife," said Shui Xian. He got superfortable on the sofa and even directly just put his head on Raelle''s leg andid down. "I''m so tired."

    Raelle didn''t push him away rather she put her hand on his forehead and let it stay there. Shui Xian smiled and closed his eyes. "You know I used to think that your and Fai''s friendship dynamic is more like chaotic x chaotic but now, it seems like cinnamon roll x cinnamon roll protector."

    "Who is the cinnamon roll and who is the cinnamon roll protector?" asked Raelle.

    "It depends," he answered honestly. "Sometimes Fai can be a cinnamon roll but he is also a good cinnamon roll protector and vice versa."

    "How can I count as a cinnamon roll?" Raelle disagreed with this point. She really didn''t think she was a cinnamon roll. Definitely not.

    "Oh, my darling, but you are," he breathed out.

    "But how?"

    "You just are," he insisted on this point. "Don''t ask why or how. Just know that you are. You should even put this in your notes that you''re a cinnamon roll. This is something new I''m letting you know about yourself."

    "Then I should say thank you," replied Raelle.

    Shui Xian still didn''t open his eyes but the corners of his lips didn''t go down as well. How was he supposed to exin to her that she was really a cinnamon roll? She was just too adorable and she had a kind of an innocence that was very unique to her.

    "But don''t you think it''s better to define Hyson and my dynamic as goofy x serious?"

    Shui Xian disagreed, "No way. Even if Fai seems goofy, he isn''t. He is only wearing the persona of goofiness and that''s definitely not who he is. I shouldn''t even have to tell you this. You know him a lot better than me."

    "That''s also true," said Raelle.

    "Baby..."

    "Hmm?"

    "What did you think about what B¨¤ saidst night?"

    "Which part?"

    Shui Xian tsked, "The part about our honeymoon every six months?"

    "I didn''t think about it."

    "Then think," he opened his eyes and looked at her face. He put his arms around her neck and pulled her down making her eyes lock with his. "Think deeply about it. I''m not letting you escape this one."

    "You have a ce you want to go with me?" she asked.

    "Is that even a question?" Shui Xian''s eyes became bigger as he questioned that. "Of course, I have a lot of ces I want to take you. I want to go to the world''srgest cave, HangSon Doong. It''s over 200 meters high and has its own climate, jungles, rivers, and clouds inside. Doesn''t it sound fascinating?" Raelle just continued to see how the sparkle in his eyes became brighter and brighter with the pitch of his voice as he showed his excitement in his words, "And then there is the waterfall in Peru known as the ''The Bride'', it looks like ady. Another marvel of nature. Also, I want to take you to a Van Gogh exhibit. They are hauntingly enchanting."

    "You have a lot of ns,"mented Raelle.

    "Yes, I do," he nodded his head. He held her hand that was ced on his forehead and put it on his lips. As he pressed a kiss against her palm, he added, "I want to hold this hand and walk through the streets of Alberobello. And I also want to stay in the town of Oia and hug you before that beautiful ocean." The more he talked, the more absurd he just became but Raelle didn''t stop him at all. She allowed him to make his ns and write a future he wanted to see with her. It was quite interesting to listen to. "I want to watch all kinds of things with you. I once had the opportunity to watch a dance performance of Berezka. In that, women move with steps so short that it looked like they were floating. I was so shocked to see it. Have you seen it before?"

    Raelle shook her head in response.

    "It''s okay, we''ll see it together next time," he seemed to be promising her.

    "Are you done nning the future?"

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and nodded, "I am."

    "Is it looking pretty?"

    Shui Xian pulled her face even closer to his. As his lips brushed against hers, he said under his breath, "You''re there.. How can it not look beautiful? In fact, it looks amazing with you there."

 Chapter 494 - Being Bitter

    "Ahem!"

    Just as Shui Xian was about to indulge in a kiss with his wife, he heard someone faking a cough and cursed mentally. He let Raelle go and turned his head towards the voice. Seeing the person who faked that cough, he sat up, "Learn some manners."

    Zhai Yanjun pointed at himself, "I should learn manners? Maybe you should get a room instead!"

    "Why should I?" retorted Shui Xian. "I can kiss my legally wedded wife anywhere and anytime I want to. It should be you who should learn to take a detour."

    "Xian, when did you be so unreasonable?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "I have to tell you that as well now?" Shui Xian returned with his own question.

    "What the hell are you doing here?"

    Both Shui Xian and Zhai Yanjun stopped and turned to look at Hyson at the same time. Hyson''s eyes were stuck on Zhai Yanjun while he was frowning.

    "Hyson," came Raelle''s voice. "That''s no way to talk to a guest."

    Hyson looked at his best friend, "But he..."

    "No," Raelle stopped him from continuing. "And no still means no."

    Hyson sighed out, "Fine." He tsked to himself and turned to Zhai Yanjun, "You, how do you even have time to be here?"

    "I think it''s within my authority to find some time for myself," answered Zhai Yanjun.

    "You mean you sneaked out here?"

    Zhai Yanjun red at Hyson, "You can''t phrase it like that."

    "But I just did," was Hyson''s response.

    Shui Xian chuckled when he heard that. "Fai is right. Be a responsible soldier. How can you sneak out? What are yourrades gonna think about you?"

    Zhai Yanjun felt like Shui Xian and Hyson were ganging up on him right now. He had no one on his side. Just how sad was his life?

    "And for whom do you think I took this risk?" questioned Zhai Yanjun. "Isn''t it for you, Fai?"

    Hyson raised his brow at him, "Me? How is it rted to me?"

    "You''re leaving tomorrow," said Zhai Yanjun. "I thought I''d see you before you leave. How can you even not appreciate my effort?"

    "You''re literally here the other day," reminded Hyson. "Do you really think I miss you so much that I''d want to see your face again so soon? There isn''t anything worthy of seeing in that face."

    "Why is it that whenever you open that mouth of yours, you try to bite me?"

    "Why would I bite you? Don''t use me wrongly," said Hyson. "You don''t even taste good."

    "And how do you know that I don''t taste good?" retorted Zhai Yanjun.

    "Are you boys really gonna continue with this childish argument?" questioned Raelle. "Hyson, follow me."

    Hyson pursed his lips and followed her out of there. He had onlye to find out how long it''d take for dinner. Who knew he''de across Zhai Yanjun.

    "Stop acting so bitter," said Raelle to Hyson. "It doesn''t suit you."

    "How am I being bitter?" Hyson just didn''t want to ept it. "I am just being me. Haven''t I always been harsh with words?"

    Raelle lifted her hand and ced it on his head, "You actually like him a lot. Don''t try to convince yourself into believing otherwise."

    Hyson groaned in response, "Sometimes I feel like you''re the personification of my inner voice. While I am able to quieten up that annoying inner voice in my head, I can''t do anything about you." He was looking sullen at how Raelle was really ying the role of his inner voice. It was true that he liked Zhai Yanjun and they''d have actually got along well as well. But the problem was Zhai Yanjun''s identity as his half-brother!

    He was just not able to getfortable with that knowledge. Just a few days were not enough for him to process this kind of information. He needed more time. But until he got over it, it was for sure that he was gonna look for every way to butt heads with Zhai Yanjun. Moreover, it was quite enjoyable for him as well.

    That look of helplessness on Zhai Yanjun''s face was too amusing. It was like Zhai Yanjun wanted to punch him in the face but he couldn''t do it either. And his words had even less of an effect on Hyson making Zhai Yanjun a lot more vulnerable before Hyson.

    And now Hyson even found a very good excuse for why Zhai Yanjun had to give in to him. After all, as an elder brother, he should be giving in to his younger brother, no? It had to be said that Hyson''s reasoning was wless!

    "It''s because he is indulging you that you''re able to bully him," said Raelle straightforwardly. "Don''t count him as a soft persimmon. He is a soldier. How soft his personality could possibly be?"

    "I know," replied Hyson. "And I know my limits as well. If I really wanted to get into a fight with him, it''d have happened for real a long time ago and you''d find at least one of us in the hospital."

    "I''d prefer if the one in the hospital isn''t you."

    Hyson smiled softly at her words, "I''ll keep my words and stay away from any trouble."

    "Fai, go and call everyone for dinner," said Mu Chenyan. "And Ellie, call your Opa."

    "Alright," nodded Hyson and Raelle.

    Before Hyson could turn to leave, Raelle held him back and said, "Remember to be nice to Zhai Yanjun. He came here especially for you. That''s very nice of him."

    Hyson gave her a look, "Ellie, do you think he is a nice person?"

    "I won''t say anything about that," said Raelle. "But every person is made of ws. We don''t live in the world of saints."

    "Of course, I know that," replied Hyson. "However, I can''t just be nice to him out of nowhere. I need time to take everything in. It''s a lot to take in already."

    Raelle patted his head, "Then I wish you good luck!"

 Chapter 495 - Time

    Everyone gathered at the dinner table and only then did Fang Yiwen, Huang Shuyi, and Pei Zi Hong get to meet Yue Yue. Since they had already learned about her from Lin Zhen, they didn''t show any surprise knowing that she couldn''t talk. In fact, they all understood now why Hyson didn''t want to introduce them to his family.

    Hyson was quite protective of his mother and he didn''t want them to have any opinions about her. But the only opinion they had about Hyson''s mother was that she looked quite young and she was also quite adorable.

    As Mu Chenyan was about to sit, Yue Yue pinched her arm making her hiss, "Yue, what? What have I done now? Why are you pinching me?"

    Yue Yue gave her a look that reminded Mu Chenyan making her sigh in exasperation.

    She stood up again and said, "Okay, so as a host, I should be weing our guests. Lin Zhen, Fang Yiwen, Huang Shuyi, and Pei Zi Hong. It''s very nice to have you guys here with us for dinner."

    "What about others?" asked Shui Koshing.

    Mu Chenyan gave him a stinky look, "Are you still a guest? Who else here counts as a guest anymore?" She ignored him and smiled at those young handsome boys saying, "Since we made this dinner especially for you all. This has been made ording to your likes and dislikes. We have Lin Zhen''s favorite mellow goose in the y pot." Lin Zhen was taken aback when he heard that. "Also, Fai said Huang Shuyi likes Spicy and Sour lemon Duck. For Pei Zi Hong, I made stuffed lotus roots. And Fang Yiwen, Yue cooked coconut chicken for you. Authentic Cantonese recipe. We know you''re from the south and must be missing home a lot. So, we hope you enjoy it."

    Fang Yiwen didn''t know about the others but his mind went nk when he heard that they cooked him coconut chicken. There was no doubt that he missed home. But home is with people. In recent years, he lost both his parents one after another. So, now that ce couldn''t be counted as home. He had an elder brother and an elder sister as well but they were both married and had their own lives.

    It was one of the reasons he loved to lock himself in his room and y games on theputer. He didn''t even know how to react right now.

    "Wen Ge," called out Hyson. "Don''t be so touched. If you want to show your appreciation for their effort, please enjoy the meal."

    Fang Yiwen smiled at Hyson with tears hanging at the corner of his eyes that he held back desperately. He really didn''t want to cry at this age before all these people.

    Cloe raised her hand as if she was in a ss to ask, "Miss Mu, I also don''t count as a guest?"

    "It''d be tiring for me if I started counting you as a guest every time you came over," replied Mu Chenyan as she sat down and picked up the chopsticks to eat.

    "I haven''t beening for a while now," said Cloe. "Not since Chief got married. Before she got married, I could mooch off a breakfast here every now and then. Sigh! Life is hard now that she is married."

    "How is it hard? Don''t you now have a boyfriend who brings you breakfast in bed?" asked Hyson.

    Cloe red at him while Raelle looked at her. Cloe smiled sheepishly, "It can''t be counted as breakfast in bed. I promise it doesn''t!"

    "But there was breakfast," said Raelle nkly.

    "Wait," Shui Xian chimed in. "You''re telling me that Cui Xukun made you breakfast?" Cloe nodded her head in reply. "Does he even know how to turn on the stove?"

    "Time," said Zhai Yanjun. "Time teaches everything."

    Shui Xian gave him a look, "Howe it never managed to teach you anything? Howe it was your ex-girlfriend who had to go through the effort of learning how to cook for you?"

    Zhai Yanjun cleared his throat awkwardly, "I never managed to have time for that."

    "You''re telling me, your ex had more time than you? I highly doubt that."

    "Whose side are you on?" questioned Zhai Yanjun.

    "Of truth!" answered Shui Xian solemnly.

    "I''d like to disagree with Captain," said Raelle. "Time is not a teacher. If you don''t want to learn anything, even time can''t help you. It''s not time that makes a difference. It''s how you are perceiving the time." She stared at Zhai Yanjun and added, "It''s not time''s responsibility to change you. It''s your responsibility to change the time. Whether you like it or not, you''d have to make an effort to change the time. If you don''t, even after years you''d standing right where you started."

    After saying this much, Raelle silently picked up her chopsticks to eat and that was also a signal that she wasn''t gonna speak anymore.

    Hyson lowered his face as his smile widened. He just knew his best friend won''t stay quiet. Apart from Hyson, only Cloe had a knowing smile on her face. The rest of the people didn''t have such reactions since most of them fell into deep thought because of Raelle''s words.

    Come to think of it, her words held a deeper meaning that seemed easy to understand but it really wasn''t. Who hasn''t heard that time changes? But what Raelle said was also right. Time is always those 24 hours in a day. Day after day, month after month, and even year after year, it''s always the same cycle. What changes are the people?

    The change we see around is brought by people. Nothing happened on its own. People say learn to adapt to changing times. No, one should learn to adapt to the changing mentality of the people in this time. It''s hard to keep up, not with time.. But with the creativity of the human brain that''s creating wonders every single day.

 Chapter 496 - Concern

    The ambiance over the dinner was warm andfortable with so many people. It was lively to have so many people gathered around for dinner. And it was actually the first time for the people of Xiang family in years to have so many guests.

    Not many people were talking during the dinner. Raelle never liked talking when she ate and the people close to her were already used to it. Lin Zhen and the boys were still a bit shy to actually let themselvespletely go. But their shyness didn''t stop them from eating to their heart''s fill. It wasn''t so much because of Hyson''s threat.

    They didn''t even take Hyson''s threat so seriously.

    It was purely because they loved the dishes ced before them. And they couldn''t help eating more. Even if they had strict diet ns, that was thrown out the window tonight. There was no one to supervise them anyway.

    It was only after dinner that Lin Zhen and the boys sat down with Mu Chenyan and Yue Yue. Why these two? Because Shui Xian and Raelle had already noticed how these boys were still not used to seeing them around. They couldn''t forget that Shui Xian was their boss and Raelle... Well, her aura was not that easy to getfortable with.

    Grandfather Xiang was already old and didn''t think that he should sit with these youngsters. However, he still sat with them for a while before leaving them alone.

    "You have a beautiful family,"mented Huang Shuyi when only they were left alone with Hyson.

    Hyson would obviously not disagree with that and nodded his head, "That''s for sure."

    "Your mom is really sweet," Fang Yiwen couldn''t help saying. From what time he spent with Mu Chenyan and Yue Yue, he could tell what kind of personalities bothdies had. Both were like two extremes but shared a very good friendship. It was surprising.

    "Right," agreed Hyson. "She is sweet. Too sweet for her own good." It''s not like he needed others to tell him what kind of a person his own mother was. He knew how sweet she was.

    "Your godmother seems like a cool person," said Pei Zi Hong. "And have I mentioned that you have two beautiful mothers?"

    Hyson smiled at his words, "Thanks for thepliment. And yes, my Yanyan is really cool. While my mum is a cautious and careful person in life, Yanyan is the opposite of her. She is careless and adventurous." He shook his head, "When my mum used to teach me, ''Fai, always have a n in life.'', Yanyan would teach me, ''Life is too short. If you continued to waste time on nning it, when are you gonna live it? Do things spontaneously and let life lead you.''"

    "Even their thoughts don''t match," chuckled Lin Zhen. "How are they still friends?"

    "That''s because they both are what the other person needs," replied Hyson. "My mum is cautious but she is sometimes too cautious. To the point where she''d not even be able to bring herself to try something new. But Yanyan would hold her hand and take her along. She knows how to encourage her. And then there is Yanyan, who gets adventurous but it gets wild. So, that''s when my mum holds her hand and stops her from acting wildly."

    "They certainlyplement each other," remarked Fang Yiwen. "Now, I finally know what kind of women raised you into the person you are today."

    "What kind of a person I am?" questioned Hyson curiously.

    Fang Yiwen pinched his cheek making him narrow his eyes as he said, "A very cute one."

    The restughed when they heard that leaving Hyson fuming. He was indeed cute. It couldn''t be denied. But this was all because of the people around him. Since he was the youngest one, he was adored like a cutie pie. This was why he wanted a younger sister. Whoever he met in his life, he was always the young one.

    Whether in the family or in the group, he was the youngest. And life decided to give him a brother and even that was an elder one. It was as if life was going against his wishes as well. Why couldn''t he just have the satisfaction of having someone younger than him around?

    "Should wee to see you off at the airport?" asked Lin Zhen.

    Hyson stared at him strangely, "Zhen Ge, don''t you have anything better to do in life? Why are you looking for trouble for yourself? I am not a kid. I can go by myself."

    Lin Zhen tsked at him, "Isn''t it because we are worried about you? It didn''t end wellst time and I believe it left a shadow on everyone around you. I can''t possibly follow you to the set but I cane to the airport with you."

    "No," Hyson sternly refused. It was enough that his two mothers were bringing him to the airport, he didn''t want to add another person to the mix. It was embarrassing enough as it was. But he couldn''t argue with his two beautiful mothers so he''d choose to argue with these older brothers instead.

    It''s not like he was going to war. He couldn''t even understand why everyone was taking it so seriously. But Lin Zhen''s words actually gave him the answer to his question. Hisst incident indeed left a shadow on everyone around him. It was good enough that his two beautiful mothers only decided to follow him to the airport and not to the set.

    He actually considered it remarkable progress for thedies whose lives had been revolving around him and Raelle. He found it reassuring that even though they were worried, they weren''t stopping him from doing whatever he wanted. And neither did they try to tie themselves with him.

    "Then we wish you luck," said Lin Zhen. "Do your best there."

    Pei Zi Hong hugged him and added, "Little Fai, you better talk to Rourou if something bothers you. No, you can just look for her even if nothing is bothering you."

    "You all are really..." Hyson didn''t even know what to say now.. All these people made him speechless with their concern.

 Chapter 497 - Let Each Other Go

    On the other side...

    "What are you sulking about?" Shui Xian ced a can of cold beer against Zhai Yanjun''s neck as he questioned.

    Zhai Yanjun was sitting outside on the stairs, staring at the sky in a dazed manner when Shui Xian appeared. When that cold can touched his skin, his body jerked away and he red at Shui Xian.

    "As if you care," saying that he snatched the beer can from his hand and opened it with a ''pop''.

    "If you don''t want to say, that''s up to you," replied Shui Xian but still sat down beside him with his own beer can. He didn''t know why he suddenly thought of having some beer. He usually didn''t drink all that much unless it was necessary or when he was feeling down.

    And currently, there was no way that he was feeling down. But he knew Zhai Yanjun was down. Maybe that''s why he had taken out this beer.

    "Can''t you talk nicely to me?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "That''s not the kind of friendship we share," reminded Shui Xian.

    "Ah! I almost forgot," said Zhai Yanjun.

    Shui Xian took a sip of the cold beer and asked, "Stop sulking and tell me what''s going on?"

    "It''s something you said earlier," said Zhai Yanjun. Shui Xian''s brows knitted up, trying to recall what he had said earlier, and was it enough to make Zhai Yanjun feel so down? "It''s not entirely because of your words. Earlier today, I met my ex."

    Shui Xian turned his eyes to Zhai Yanjun and gave him all of his attention.

    "You have all my attention now," he told him. "Go on."

    Zhai Yanjun looked at Shui Xian''s eager eyes and his lips twitched, shaking his head he looked away. "She said I have never made her feel loved." Shui Xian didn''t interrupt him and silently listened. "And then when you said that I never made an effort to learn how to cook, it gave me a strange feeling. It made me recall her words that I had been trying to deny. Maybe she is right. Maybe I really didn''t love her. At least, I didn''t love her enough to fight for our rtionship."

    Shui Xian ced his hand on his shoulder and said, "Maybe it''s not like that. You''ve always told me how important she is to you."

    Zhai Yanjun snorted, "She said being important to someone and love are two very different things."

    Shui Xian pressed his lips together as he didn''t know how to continue this conversation. After all, he also understood the point.

    "I never told you why she is so important to me," Zhai Yanjun looked at Shui Xian''s face. "She is the person who pulled me out of the shadows that my mother left on me. I believe you remember how I had closed myself off back then. If it wasn''t for her, I''d have never reached where I am today. I thought joining the army would make me strong but it wasn''t that easy. If she wasn''t there, it definitely would have been something impossible for me." He shook his head and sighed, "In fact, I might not even be able to exin to you how much importance she has in my life. But for the first time today, she made me question; was it really love?"

    Shui Xian didn''tment on that. He had never known this aspect of his life at all. He didn''t know what kind of difficulties Zhai Yanjun had faced during those years. He always had his friends around him. But he didn''t realize that Zhai Yanjun was really lonely. However, he did remember that before joining the army, Zhai Yanjun was nothing different from a gloomy teenager.

    But after he graduated from the military academy, he changed. Shui Xian thought that it was because of the army environment. It was only now he knew that there was someone who actually helped him in bing who he was. There was someone behind all that change.

    "She said I take her as a responsibility."

    "Huh?"

    "Yeah, a responsibility. She believes the only reason I had been with her was that I felt like I owed her something for what she did to me. In fact, back then our rtionship started because of this favor as well. She said she''d right off whatever I owe her if I go out with her. And she even gave me the power in our rtionship. She really is stubborn. Once I said it ends, it''ll be the end."

    Shui Xian processed all of what he said and said, "Then don''t you think this rtionship had always been on the wrong track?"

    "What do you mean?"

    "She asked you out while writing off whatever favor you believed you owed her. But you continued to hold that close to you. Even to this day, you believe that you owe her something. With this mindset, what makes you think she''d be able to tell whether you love her or not?"

    Zhai Yanjun was silent for a minute before saying, "But how could I not think about it? What she did for me was a lot more. How can just dating me write it all off?"

    Shui Xian patted his shoulder, "Yanjun, have you ever wondered? Maybe being with you meant a lot more to her than anything else in life. Maybe she really didn''t think you owed her anything because what she did was of her own will. However, you turned it into a life-saving grace. Perhaps, her goal had always been you."

    Zhai Yanjun was stunned when heard Shui Xian''s thoughts.

    "I have never met your ex-girlfriend. I don''t even know her name even now. But from the small details, you have shared with me over the years, I have always felt that she loves you a lot. It always confused me as well. If she loved you so much, why did she ask for a breakup? And if she did, why did she alwayse back to you again? It baffled me. However, now I understand it. She loved you so much that it was difficult to let go but it had be a lot more difficult for her to hold on as well."

    Zhai Yanjun''s eyes dimmed, "Then do you think I''ve been wrong all along?"

    Shui Xian shrugged, "I definitely don''t want toment on that. But I can tell you that this breakup might be the best for both of you. Even if you love her, you are never gonnae out of that feeling of gratitude you hold towards her. And no matter how much she loves you, this rtionship had already be suffocating to her. It''s good that you both let each other go now."

    Zhai Yanjun felt so lost and empty when fully understood the meaning behind Shui Xian''s words. His heart clenched in his chest and he clenched his fists tightly.. This realization was a lot to take in for him.

 Chapter 498 - Goodbye

    There was the sound of baggage wheels and lively chattering around. As always, the airport was bustling with people. Some were saying goodbye and some were there to say goodbye.

    Hyson was feeling distressed because of his dear mother who was hugging him tightly and silently sobbed. He didn''t even know what to do with this woman. He was really not a kid and neither was he going to enter the battlefield. But he couldn''t say that out to her either. So, he could only pat her back to soothe her.

    In the end, it was Mu Chenyan who held Yue Yue''s arm and pulled her away from Hyson saying, "Stop embarrassing yourself and him as well." Yue Yue red at Mu Chenyan with her tear-filled eyes but thetter paid no heed to her. Instead, Mu Chenyan looked at Hyson and smiled, "Fai, give me a call when you get there. Take care of yourself. And pay attention to your surroundings."

    "Yanyan, Ellie already made a whole team of bodyguards follow me," said Hyson bitterly. "Do I still have to pay attention to anything?"

    Mu Chenyan nodded in response. Indeed, Raelle had sent bodyguards to follow Hyson. Even though Hyson refused to take any with him. Raelle would obviously not listen once she had made up her mind. And right now, she felt the need to send someone to be there for Hyson.

    However, Hyson believed that was too high profile and so not like his usual style. So, in the end, Raelle made those bodyguards follow him in secret. So, even now, even if those people were around even Hyson might not be able to identify or locate them.

    "Still," said Mu Chenyan. "You should also learn to protect yourself."

    "Okay," agreed Hyson. "I''m going in now. Both of you go back."

    "We''ll see you go in first," said Mu Chenyan and Yue Yue also nodded while wiping her tears.

    Hyson nodded and strode away. He took a few steps before turning back to look. He saw bothdies waving at him and smiled instinctively.

    True to their words, once Hyson went in, Mu Chenyan hugged Yue Yue''s shoulder and walked with her saying, "Alright now, stop sulking. He isn''t 3. You didn''t even cry when you sent him to Country G all alone."

    Yue Yue stared at her and retorted, ''That was because I knew you''d be there to take care of him.''

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips before saying, "I know you''re worried because of thest incident but we can''t let that affect us. This is his life, let him live it."

    Yue Yue could only silently sigh at that. It''s not like she wanted to dictate her son''s life. She already knew that without her saying it, her son usually would do things ording to her liking. As if he didn''t have his own personal preferences or dreams. But at the end of the day, she was still a mother. It was hard not to be worried about her only son especially with the ident he facedst time.

    As they were leaving the airport, some kids were ying with the luggage trolley. One of them pushed the trolley too hard and it came in their direction. Mu Chenyan instantly felt the danger and pulled Yue Yue away with her. But while doing so, she identally ended up bumping into someone.

    "Oh, I''m sorry! I didn''t see you there," said Mu Chenyan and turned to Yue Yue. "Did you get hurt?"

    Yue Yue shook her head.

    Only then did Mu Chenyan look up to see whom she bumped into. Seeing the face of the person before her she stiffened momentarily.

    The person she bumped into was a teenager. About 18-19 of age. He was looking at Mu Chenyan intently as if trying to recall something. Meanwhile, Mu Chenyan came out of her daze. She was only momentarily stunned because the face of the young boy reminded her of someone. But she decided not to think more about it.

    Just for the sake of being polite, she asked the boy, "Are you hurt?"

    "No, I''m fine," he replied.

    Mu Chenyan nodded and left with Yue Yue. But looking at her receding back, the young boy''s eyes narrowed, "Where have I seen her before?" He scratched his head and decided not to think anymore about it.

    When they got inside the car, Yue Yue stared at Mu Chenyan''s face. She looked to be lost in thought and seeing herplicated mood, Yue Yue tapped her shoulder to get her attention.

    Mu Chenyan''s body jerked a little when Yue Yue tapped her shoulder, "What? What is it?"

    ''Are you okay?''

    Mu Chenyan took a deep breath and nodded, "I''m fine."

    ''Are you sure? Where are you lost then?''

    Mu Chenyan almost shrank back to hide her thoughts from her best friend. It wasn''t that she had anything to hide from Yue Yue. It''s just that she didn''t want to talk about it with anyone either. Somethings forgotten were better.

    She closed her eyes briefly to gather herself, before she leaned towards Yue Yue and while tucking her hair behind her ear with an amorous look in her eyes, she said, "I''m lost in your eyes. Can''t you tell?"

    Yue Yue made a face as if she was about to vomit making Mu Chenyan chuckle softly. Yue Yue hit her arm, ''Can you stop doing this?''

    Mu Chenyan clutched her chest, "Darling, you just broke my heart by questioning my feelings for you. How can I live with myself now?"

    Yue Yue rolled her eyes at her, ''Dramatic.''

    Mu Chenyanughed out loud and patted Yue Yue''s head as if she was petting a pet. "Just smile already."

    Yue Yue couldn''t help smiling when she heard that. As if she didn''t know why Mu Chenyan liked to put on so many acts. Wasn''t it all for the people around her? Either was amusing people or to make someone smile. And sometimes, it was to avoid certain things.

    In fact, Yue Yue could tell that currently, Mu Chenyan was avoiding answering her but she didn''t try to pry into it. If Mu Chenyan didn''t bring it up, it didn''t mean she didn''t want to tell her.. It meant that she didn''t think it was important enough to share.

 Chapter 499 - Walking Encyclopedia

    On the other hand, when Hyson was waiting in the VIP waiting area after getting his boarding pass, he was surprised to see his new manager there. He raised his brows at her in question.

    Li Xinxin came to sit a little distance away from him as she informed him, "I''ll be going with you."

    "Huh?" Hyson was dumbfounded. That was unexpected for sure. "Why?"

    Now, it was Li Xinxin''s turn to look at him in surprise. "You''re my artist. It''s my responsibility to be there for you."

    Hyson was taken aback by such a response, "But you really don''t have to. And don''t you have other things to do?"

    Li Xinxin casually scrolled on her phone as she replied, "I''ll help you settle in with the crew first. I''ll stay for a week and will onlye back once you''ve adjusted well. You don''t have to worry about my work. I''m an artist manager. My first and foremost responsibility is to take care of my artist."

    "That''s very nice of you, Xin Jie,"mented Hyson.

    "I''m not being nice," said Li Xinxin. "I''m just doing my job." She actually felt the need to make that point clear to him because she couldn''t take in the gaze with which he was looking at her. His gratitude was unnecessary since it really was her job.

    However, seeing him like this, she understood why after all these years he managed to gather an army of elder sister fans. It was because he looked like a dumb but adorable little brother who evoked that tender feeling within and forced even her to want to protect him well from the world.

    What kind of talent was that?!

    Hyson didn''t know what his manager was thinking all by herself. And even if he did know, he wouldn''t have cared. It''s not like he intentionally acted like that. He was just like that. He might be a little dramatic around his family and friends but most of the time, he was very real. He never tried to put up a front.

    And he wasn''t afraid of showing people what kind of a person he was.

    "You should interact with your fans more," suggested Li Xinxin after a while.

    Hyson looked towards her.

    "Since you''re joining the production again, it''s good to share little details with fans to keep them excited," said Li Xinxin seriously. "Entertainment circle is always changing. Today''s top star might get buried by new talent tomorrow. So, you shouldn''t bezy when ites to such things."

    "I''ll keep that in mind," answered Hyson.

    "Although we aren''t in a hurry, I''m still looking for new projects for you," told Li Xinxin. "You won''t be able to work in the next couple of months because of shooting but after that, you''ll have to appear in the eye of the public again. How about a variety show? They are always the best to gather new fans and to also generate traffic. And you must know that traffic is as important as talent these days. Some people even believe that traffic stars are even more worthy than talented ones. After all, everyone wants to create a buzz."

    "I''ll follow your lead," was all Hyson said.

    Li Xinxin was surprised to hear that, "You don''t have a n in mind? A direction you want to follow?"

    "Not really," replied Hyson.

    Li Xinxin was silent for a minute before questioning, "Then what kind of a variety show should I pick for you?"

    "What do you have in mind?" asked Hyson in return. He had the least interest in such things. As he really had no dreams in life, he always just went with the flow.

    "I looked through a couple of popr variety shows. One is survival in wild, another one is rted to food and travel, there is one where you have to live in the countryside and do stuff like farming and cooking."

    "I''ll be honest with you, I have no survival skills," said Hyson honestly. "I can''t even tell the difference between salt and sugar, don''t expect me to know how to cook much less know how to farm. Although I love eating, I am not the kind of a person to pursue delicacies."

    "That''s very honest of you,"mented Li Xinxin. She didn''t know how to react to what he said.

    Hyson noticed her expression and smiled behind his mask, "Xin Jie, you can just say that I look like a well-protected child."

    Li Xinxin pursed her lips but couldn''t disagree with that. That''s exactly how she felt about Hyson. One, he gave off a noble aura. Two, he looked like he had been protected from the cruelty of the world.

    "I won''t disagree with you," said Hyson. "It''s true that I grew up in the countryside when I was young but I really have no skills. I''ll have to trouble you to find a different show."

    Li Xinxin hesitated before telling him, "Actually, a team had contacted me before wanting to invite you over for a season."

    "Which show?"

    "The Brain Game," she told him. "It''s where people have to solve difficult puzzles. One needs to have a high IQ and also it needs high attentivity. One also needs to have a vast knowledge of things."

    "Oh, I like this one," said Hyson without any hesitation.

    "You agree?" asked Li Xinxin in surprise. "You sure? If you do badly, you''ll be criticized badly."

    Hyson chuckled, "I have never been scared of negativements." He offered her a reassuring smile, "Have some faith in my intelligence. I might not be a genius but trust me, I''m still good. And I grew up with a walking encyclopedia. You have no idea how vast my ocean of knowledge is."

    Li Xinxin didn''t understand his meaning but Hyson was amused by his own words. Of course, the ''walking encyclopedia'' was his best friend, Raelle.. With her around, how could he be ordinary? If his intelligence was really that questionable, it would have been impossible for him to connect with a genius like Raelle.

 Chapter 500 - Delusions

    As soon as Ruan Meilin entered thepany, she could already feel the eyes of the people around her. They looked at her weirdly making her feel a little ufortable. She hadn''t been in thepany for a while now.

    First, she was handling things for thepany abroad and when she finally came back, Shui Xian sent her to the branchpany in another province to supervise another project. During herst stay, she did get to know about the woman with whom Shui Xian was in a rtionship. She did meet Shui Xian''s sister but it was useless.

    She didn''t know whether Amiah really didn''t know anything or she didn''t want to share anything with her. She couldn''t rule out both the possibilities. After all, Amiah was estranged from her family for years. And no matter how close she was to her brother, it couldn''t be certain that Shui Xian would share about his rtionship with her. As for the second possibility, that was even more likely since Amiah had always been a bit protective when it came to her brother.

    So, she wasn''t surprised that Amiah won''t open her mouth to share Shui Xian''s personal matters with anyone.

    But right now, she had an inkling that whatever the matter was, it was not good for her. She could feel those gazes of pity directed towards her. But more than pity, she received disdainful and gloating. And that made her certain that something was definitely going on which she didn''t know about.

    The first thing she did was to find the colleagues she was closed to and only then did she learn about the things that happened the other day at thepany. She was so shocked that she didn''t know how to react for a long while.

    She had been deluding herself all this time that Shui Xian lied to her about his rtionship just because he didn''t want to be entangled with her. That made her hatred for Shui Xian''s ex-wife burn even more intensely.

    Right now, she was actually panicking. She recently learned that Shui Xian''s ex-wife, Tang Hebe was back in the country for a few months now. When she picked up Shui Xian''s phonest time, she didn''t know that Tang Hebe was back. And listening to that voice, she actually didn''t connect it with Tang Hebe as well.

    But now, she was feeling like she might be wrong. That woman had to be Tang Hebe. There was only one woman whom Shui Xian would call his wife and that was Tang Hebe. She always med Tang Hebe for leaving a shadow of her presence in Shui Xian''s heart even when she left him. It was the reason he was so unwilling to give her a chance.

    She felt so powerless at the thought that now that Tang Hebe is back in Shui Xian''s life, she definitely had no chance at all.

    Obviously, she had imagined up all this on her own. But it was enough to make her feel hurt. But if only she knew that the woman in Shui Xian''s life was definitely not Tang Hebe, she might have copsed. After all, she had spent years with him and he never even looked at her even after all her efforts. But another woman managed to enter his life all of a sudden.

    Even when she went to see Shui Xian, he only talked about work and didn''t even give her a minute to talk about anything else. But even when they were working, Ruan Meilin could see that something about Shui Xian was different. He looked a lot mellower and easygoing.

    Although there wasn''t a smile on his face, there wasn''t any coldness radiating from him either. If anything, he gave off a peaceful andfortable feeling. He seemed a lot more approachable than before. This change reminded her of the Shui Xian of his youth who was cheerful and lively.

    Ruan Meilin felt so bitter inside when she thought about this. Howe Tang Hebe still had this effect on him? Howe only that woman was able to bring this kind of Shui Xian out of his shell? Why? Didn''t she hurt him enough? Then why was he willing to forget all about it? Did he love her so much? If yes, then why?

    If only Shui Xian knew what she was thinking, he would have loved to roll his eyes. He definitely wasn''t a masochist. Why would he want to get back together with someone who hurt him? Wasn''t that like asking for another heartbreak?

    "Xian!"

    Shui Xian had just walked out of his office when Ruan Meilin called out to him. Shui Xian was unwilling but he still stopped.

    "Yes?"

    "I heard Tang Hebe..."

    Before she could continue, Shui Xian''s phone rang. It was a special ringtone he had set for Raelle''s contact. So, without even paying attention to Ruan Meilin''s words, he instantly took out his phone and took the call.

    "Hello?"

    "Hubby, are you done with work?" came Raelle''s voice from the other side.

    "Yes," answered Shui Xian with a muffled smile. "I''m just about to leave now."

    "Oh, thene down," said Raelle.

    "Huh?" Shui Xian didn''t understand her words.

    "I''m waiting outside," added Raelle.

    Shui Xian was stunned for a second before his eyes brightened, "I''ll be right there!" He looked at Ruan Meilin who was staring at him and said, "If it''s nothing urgent, let''s talk about it tomorrow." With that, he pressed the button of the elevator and got in. He didn''t even bother seeing how Ruan Meilin reacted.

    It was none of his concern. His only concern at the moment was that his dear wife had actuallye to his office to pick him up! Do you hear that? His Raelle was here for him!!! He was so excited about this thought that he wanted to shout this to the whole world.. It''s a good thing that he was alone in the elevator or else people would get to see that goofy smile on his face which was so not like him.

 Chapter 501 - Sweet Lips

    Shui Xian''s excitement didn''t die down even when he reached the entrance of the building. As he had been leaving office exactly at 5:30, it was time for all the employees to leave as well. So, most of them saw their CEO who usually never appeared in the lobby, actually rushing out.

    It shocked everyone present around and even more curious about the reason behind this.

    Shui Xian''s eyes wandered around as he tried to look for Raelle''s figure. Suddenly, his eyes narrowed on a figure. Dressed in white sailor pants, a red silk sleeve puff blouse, and a floppy hat. At first, Shui Xian overlooked this person since Raelle definitely didn''t wear this outfit when she left for work in the morning.

    However, Shui Xian''s keen eyes and his strong desire to see his wife made him lock his eyes on this figure. No matter how he looked at it, he was certain that was his Raelle.

    He strode over to her side. Raelle was leaning against the side of her car as she scrolled on her phone with her head down. The brim of her floppy hat was lowered and since the sun was setting, it made it difficult for people to make out her face.

    Shui Xian came to stand right in front of her. He leaned down to look at that face hidden under the shade of the hat and seeing that all too familiar, gorgeous face, his lips tilted up in a knowing smile. He got it right. Who else would have such a perfect bodyline if not his own wife? It had to be her!

    "Hi!" he said to her.

    Raelle turned off her phone and straightened up as she looked at him, "Hello, Hubby!"

    "You''re here to pick me up?" asked Shui Xian.

    Raelle showed him the car keys, "What else does it look like?"

    Shui Xian grinned like a baby and hugged her waist and swept her off the ground. Raelle was taken aback by this sudden action of his. She really was as her eyes widened a little. She ced her hands on his shoulders and asked, "What are you doing?"

    "I''m excited and happy," said Shui Xian.

    "Is this a new way to show your happiness?" questioned Raelle.

    "You can say that," he told her as he ced her down and pulled up the brim of her hat to ce a kiss right between her brows before fixing her hat again. He looked her up and down and asked, "Did you juste here like this because of what I said?"

    Raelle looked into his eyes and recalled what he told her the other night.

    Just casually, he ended up sharing with her how there was a bet going on in hispany right now regarding whom he was dating. As for how it started, he gave her all the details without leaving anything. He even told her how people didn''t think he couldn''t be dating a sessful businesswoman. He found it amusing.

    And while talking, he mentioned, "Just imagine if you showed up at mypany building? It''ll be a sight to behold! Haha!"

    Who knew something he mentioned casually, she''d take so seriously? But then again, that''s how Raelle was. If he mentioned it, that meant he really wanted her toe. And since he wanted that, how could she not? It''s not like she was nning on hiding their rtionship for good. They were married, there was nothing shameful that they had to hide about.

    "And why are you dressed up like this? You weren''t wearing this in the morning," said Shui Xian.

    "I was at the construction site," she told him. "Got something on my suit. So, I changed my clothes. Since the construction site is closer to your office, I asked my chauffeur to give me the keys and leave. And here I am now."

    "What''s with the hat?" he asked.

    "Originally, I wore it because some dust fell on my head. So, to hide it, I wore this. But now..." She looked behind him to see how the employees in hispany were craning their necks and peaking at them like thieves. Their eyes were brimming with gossip. One could see how passionate they were about it. "Now, I think it gives me a mysterious charm. Don''t you agree?"

    "Agree!" Shui Xian didn''t even think before nodding his head in agreement. Why wouldn''t he agree? That hat definitely made her appear mysterious.

    "And I think the mystery thates with this hat gives your employees a lot more to talk about," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian turned his head and found his employees crowding around the entrance. When he looked back, they all pretended to leave but not even one of them took a step away from where they were. He found it quite funny actually.

    "Why are they burning for gossip always?" sighed Shui Xian.

    "Employees find work to be boring," told Raelle. "So, they look for excitement. Excitementes from gossip. It brings them some kind of happiness. And that actually ends up motivating them to work harder." She patted his chest saying, "So, you should let them gossip. They will work hard for you and earn more money for you."

    "Hmm..." Shui Xian hummed before he wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her closer making her bump into his chest. "Then how about we give them something exciting to gossip about?"

    Just now when he pulled her closer, he could actually hear some shrieking from behind him. He never thought he''d put on a show like this at the door of hispany building. But it was truly an experience he wouldn''t wanna miss out on.

    Shui Xian''s face came closer to hers and as his lips were about to touch hers, she put her finger on his lips and pushed him away, "Stop fooling around. Let''s go home already."

    Shui Xian was so disappointed by this turn of events. What a bummer! He was about to taste those sweet lips!

 Chapter 502 - Blind Guy

    As soon as Shui Xian got into the car, while Raelle was buckling her seatbelt, he bent over to her side, and with his one hand ced behind her on the seat, he kissed her lips! Was it that easy to get rid of him? No! If he wanted to kiss, he''d do it now!

    After kissing her deeply, he wasn''t absolutely satisfied just yet but he still let her go. He''d continue it at home. For now, he''d just let her go. As he pulled away, he settled down on his seat and fastened his seatbelt.

    "I missed you today," said Raelle shocking Shui Xian. He turned to look at her as she added, "Really. I did."

    Shui Xian suddenly smiled and soon it turned intoughter. He caressed her face and said, "I missed you too." He found it actually kind of cute and funny how she actually chose to miss him when he asked her to do it. Since he told her the other day he wanted her to miss him. She actually followed his words.

    It was really amusing how she always followed instructions down to the T!

    He rubbed her lips that he just kissed and said, "Drive now."

    "Okay," saying that she started the car and drove away.

    Behind them, there was another wave of discussion that brewed. And this time, the gossip was more intense because there were photo proofs! In this digital age, who wouldn''t take a photo as proof first? There were plenty of people who held up their phones. And they couldn''t help clicking photos of their Master Xian with that mysterious woman. It actually made them more passionate about their gossip.

    Just as Raelle had said, the hat added more mystery to her identity. Now, they were all the more curious to know who was under that hat. Her height, her figure, even her posture made her look like a confident woman. Everyone was busy sharing the photos but it was a shame that Shui Xian seemed to be intentionally hiding half of Raelle''s body with his own figure in each photo so they could really not guess the identity of the woman with him.

    However, this just intensified the effect of the bet. More and more people joined it started betting. Surprisingly, there was still only one person who had betted on the right career.

    "I really didn''t think you''de here," said Shui Xian to Raelle.

    "Didn''t you want me to?" retorted Raelle certainly.

    Shui Xian smiled at that, "I was saying it casually."

    "I thought it didn''t sound that casual," said Raelle. "It sounded more like you''re expecting to see me there."

    "Aiyo, my wife is reading minds now," sighed Shui Xian.

    "Is there a problem with that?"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "How can it be a problem? I''m all yours. You can read me however you want."

    "I''m reading you," said Raelle. "I''m reading you every day."

    Shui Xian narrowed his eyes, "Baby, what did you mean by that?"

    "I meant it literally," replied Raelle.

    "Are you sure?" asked Shui Xian. "Why does it sound so dirty in my head?"

    "Maybe you have some dirty thoughts," said Raelle.

    "I do," epted Shui Xian without any hesitation. "I''d love to do some things with you."

    "For instance?" asked Raelle. "Don''t tell me it involves, a dark red room, with handcuffs and whips."

    Shui Xian choked on air as he coughed violently and stared at her in disbelief, "Wifey, what the hell are you reading?"

    "Very interesting things," she replied vaguely.

    "Don''t tell me you wanna try it out?" Shui Xian looked a bit horrified or was that anticipation in his eyes, he was trying to hold back?

    "You never know," said Raelle. "I have a banquet to attend tomorrow night," she changed the topic just as she started it earlier. "It''s some annual charity g or something. I have to be there."

    Shui Xian''s brows furrowed up when he heard that and felt like he heard about that somewhere. He closed his eyes and recalled. Oh, wasn''t it the invitation he casually told Ma Jin to take off this morning? Then he looked at his wife''s face. She was going!

    Then why wasn''t he going? What was stopping him? Nothing! He was definitely going now!

    He opened his mouth to tell her but instantly shut up. Wouldn''t it be better to give her a surprise? Yup! That''d be better!

    "Then we won''t be eating together," Shui Xian acted so sadly right now as he said it.

    "I don''t usually like to eat at banquets as well," said Raelle. "But by the time Ie back, it''d bete. You shouldn''t stay hungry for so long. It''s not good for health."

    Shui Xian felt sweet in his heart, "Babes, you really care about my health. How did I manage to find such a sweet and caring wife like you?"

    "You didn''t find me," retorted Raelle. "B¨¤ did."

    Shui Xian rolled his eyes mentally, "Yes, yes. I was the blind guy."

    "Are you really blind?" asked Raelle.

    "Baby, will you please not question my eyes now?"

    "You said it yourself."

    "I was being self-deprecating."

    "No, you''re being dramatic."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips, "Fine, I am being dramatic. Whatever!" He leaned back in the seat and closed his eyes. "Hyson reached his destination."

    "I know," replied Raelle. She gave him a nce from the corner of her eye as she added, "I heard his manager went with him to help him settle down."

    Shui Xian tilted his head and looked at her, "It''s not me. I didn''t send her. I promise. It''s just Li Xinxin is really diligent in her work. She is very responsible as well. She takes her artists very seriously."

    "Then I should thank you for choosing such a manager for Hyson," said Raelle. "Now, don''t say it''s not you who handpicked her for Hyson."

    Shui Xian stayed quiet in reply since he really couldn''t deny this one.. He did went through the list of all the managers before picking Li Xinxin for Hyson.

 Chapter 503 - Research

    ~Military Research Institue~

    In the R&D department of the research institute, the atmosphere was quite different than usual. One could see themander of the Base looking a little excited. How could he not be excited? The more he listened to Raelle, the more he wanted to keep this woman right in this research institute. It couldn''t be helped.

    Before today, he always thought the things he heard about Raelle Xiang were mostly exaggerations but now that he stood beside her, he had to say that people really didn''t do a good job in describing what an amazing person she was. Her thoughts and ideas were all clear and she spoke confidently. Every word of hers had a persuasive power that would make anyone immerse in the discussion.

    It was just as Soren had mentioned once, it was truly a shame that she chose business as her priority. Otherwise, she would have really be a world-renowned scientist by now.

    Soren leaned close to Raelle''s ear and whispered, "It seems Commander Sun wants to kidnap you and keep you here for good."

    "I''m not that easy to kidnap," replied Raelle without any expression on her face. But she also knew Soren was right. It''s not like she didn''t see that intense gaze directed towards her. And Commander Sun''s enthusiastic and excited appearance was something everyone could see already.

    Weren''t they just discussing the project n and the initial blueprints? Why was he getting so excited? What she shared was just somemon knowledge, no?

    If she had said that out loud, Soren would have actually felt like beating her. Because those words clearly sounded like a provocation!

    An officer came behind Commander Sun and whispered something, the Commander nodded to indicate he understood before he turned to Raelle and Soren. "The person who will be supervising this project is already here. How about you both meet him before leaving?"

    Both of them had no opinion regarding this, so Commander Sun brought them to another room. And then he introduced the person sitting inside to the both of them, "Meet Lieutenant Colonel Xiang Weimin! One of the nation''s first-tier air force pilots with an estimate of 2346 hours of safety flight time. He has been honored with multiple medals during his service in the military. Not only that, but he had also participated in the research of..."

    While Commander Sun continued to praise Xiang Weimin, thetter''s eyes were stuck on Raelle. He wasn''t expecting to see her here of all ces. This had to be the least likely ce he had expected to meet her. But then again, it seemed he was meeting her at ces where he wasn''t expecting her at all.

    Originally Xiang Weimin didn''t n to ept the offer of joining another research. He felt like he had done that enough. But these days he really had nothing else to do. If he wasn''t injured, he would never have be a part of this research group. But every cloud has a silver lining. It seemed his sliver lining was her.

    From the beginning, his ident had been weaving a connection between her and him. He didn''t realize it at first but now he felt like fate had orchestrated this ident just to bring her into his life. Whether it was how Hyson became the reason for him being alive or how Hyson turned out to be Raelle''s best friend. And then now, Raelle was also a part of this research group he wouldn''t have joined if he was fine.

    Just likest time, Raelle wasn''t fazed by Xiang Weimin''s gaze at her. She was also not expecting to see him here but that wasn''t enough to surprise her. She didn''t think there was anything wrong with him being here and neither would that be a reason for her to back out of it either. That had never been her style of work.

    After Commander Sun was done listing out Xiang Weimin''s achievements, he introduced Raelle and Soren to him. Xiang Weimin greeted them politely and just like any other professional people, they sat down together to discuss important things.

    Soren was actually surprised to see how Xiang Weimin was able to keep up this discussion with Raelle without losing behind at all. It was no easy feat! He hadn''t met that many people in life who could keep a conversation going with Raelle whose intelligence was above average. He was already impressed after he heard Xiang Weimin''s introduction, but now he truly felt like admiring him.

    All of them spent 2 hours discussing their ideas and didn''t even realize how long it had been. It was longer than Raelle had originally nned to stay out of office. She still had things to do and so did Soren. None of them had that much free time on hand.

    "We''d be leaving now," said Soren to Commander Sun.

    Commander Sun looked so happy right now that he couldn''t hold back his happiness at all. "Mr. Ke and Miss Xiang, it truly was an experience to talk to you both capable people. No wonder you both are so sessful in what you do."

    "Commander Sun is overpraising us now," said Soren humbly.

    "Oh, but I am not," insisted Commander Sun. "You both deserve it."

    Xiang Weimin hesitated for a long while before he rushed out after them. Since fate brought her to him, he really had to just face her now and stop hesitating so much. At the end of the day, she was his sister. And he just talked to her earlier even though it was all work talk. But still, they had a pleasant time talking and it made him realize that they had somethingmon to talk about.

    Thest time he saw her, he was actually scared that he won''t have anything to talk about with her and won''t be able to bridge the distance between them. After all, he knew nothing business and she was quite a Queen in that field. Their interests were different for sure but they did have something to talk about.

    Just as Raelle was leaving the building, he caught up to them and called out, "Raelle!"

    Raelle turned around to look at him and responded, "Yes?"

    "Can we talk?" he asked uncertainly.

    "Sure," she agreed without any hesitation.

    In Raelle''s mind, she had iting. From the moment she saw Xiang Weimin, she knew he''de to her. You didn''t have to be a genius to know that he had something to say to her. He was doing a poor job at hiding his emotions. And that was actually not good considering his job.

    Raelle turned to Soren who was frowning in confusion. He didn''t think there was any interaction between Raelle and this Lieutenant Colonel but even he noticed the way Xiang Weimin looked at Raelle. However, he''d rather not be nosy about Raelle''s matters. That never ended well.

    "Soren, you can leave first," said Raelle to Soren.

    "I can wait," answered Soren.

    "Don''t you have a meeting?" reminded Raelle. "Be a little more responsible at your work."

    Soren gaped at her in disbelief. He was being nice here by saying he''d wait for her? How did he end up with the title of being irresponsible? He really just had to suffer through this, eh?

    "Fine, I''m leaving then," said Soren.

    Raelle walked towards Xiang Weimin and asked, "You want to talk here?"

    Xiang Weimin was stunned by her question for a minute before he shook his head. "Let''s talk inside." Since he was gonna be a supervisor here, he was specially provided with his own office. He brought her there and ordered someone to bring some tea for them.

    "Have a seat," said Xiang Weimin and also walked towards the chair opposite her to sit. He ced his crutches at the side and sat with a straight posture.

    He might have missed small details thest time he met Raelle but he didn''t miss it out this time. When he looked at Raelle, he could see that she sat with the same posture as him. Definitely, she was someone raised in a military family. How could she not be instilled with these traits?

    Raelle''s eyes inadvertently fell on the book ced on his desk. And for some reason, her eyes lingered on the book cover for a minute too long.

    "You..." Xiang Weimin opened his mouth to say something but he didn''t even know where to begin or what even to say to her? Should he introduce himself? Obviously, that was unnecessary since she already knew who he was. But he had never been the one to tell her that. So, he felt like saying it. "I''m Xiang Weimin." Raelle nced at him and met his eyes as he continued, "I''m your elder brother."

    It sounded awkward and very unnecessary as well. But Xiang Weimin didn''t know how else to say it. He had never been good with words.. And Raelle''s nk face actually made it worse for him to keep his calm and take it slowly.

 Chapter 504 - Why Now?

    Raelle didn''t know what he was expecting from her by telling her that. Her nk face was her identity but it made Xiang Weimin feel nervous and made his palms sweaty. He had never been this nervous in his life. Although he usually didn''t have an expression on his face, he gave off a different impression than Raelle. She looked like that doll with limpid eyes staring right into his soul.

    It was ufortable. It really was.

    After a long moment of silence, Raelle''s lips finally moved, "What makes you think I don''t know that?"

    "I know that you know I''m your brother," said Xiang Weimin. "But I wanted to be the one to say it to you."

    "And that makes a difference?" questioned Raelle.

    Was it really different? She already knew he was her elder brother. How did she know about it made a difference? She didn''t think so. Whether he said it to her or not, it really made no difference to her.

    But this was something difficult to understand for Xiang Weimin. Just like it was difficult for Raelle to understand the emotions and need behind his words.

    Xiang Weimin tried to control his emotions and said, "Maybe it really didn''t make a difference. But I just wanted to tell you this myself."

    "Okay?" replied Raelle. "Did you stop me for only this?"

    "No," Xiang Weimin hurriedly said in fear that she would leave.

    "Then please, continue," said Raelle politely. She sounded as polite as she could possibly be.

    "Don''t you feel something about this?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "About what?" she asked in return.

    "About meeting me like this," he said. "When I saw you the other day, I was surprised, excited, a little nervous as well. In fact, it was overall a mess of emotions. Clearly, we are siblings but it''s our first time even seeing each other. It must be strange to you as well."

    "Not really," she responded. "There is a problem with the question you just asked me." Xiang Weimin''s brows raised up in question and she went on, "Feelings don''t have a ce in my life. They never did. Since it''s our first real interaction I believe I should make it clear to you, I don''t have emotions as rich or asplex as others."

    Xiang Weimin was stunned for a long while when he heard her reply.

    "If you''re looking to build an emotional bond here with me, it''s not gonna happen. First, I don''t know you. We might share the same blood but that does not give you a ce in my life. Second, I''m not even capable of building emotional bonds."

    Xiang Weimin was suddenly reminded of the discussion he had with Hyson the other day. He didn''t know why he wasn''t willing to believe in him all that much. He thought he''d be able to cozy up to her with his sincerity but was he really wrong? Looking at her, she didn''t seem to be joking.

    "Are you angry with me? Or maybe you hate me?" he asked out of nowhere. "Is that why you don''t want to have anything to do with me?"

    "You''re mistaken," said Raelle. "Whether it''s anger or it''s hate, I don''t know how both of those feel like. If anything, I find emotions to be quite tiring and troublesome. And I''m the person who had always avoided troublesome things in my life." She took a pause to add, "As for having anything to do with you or not, I believe that''s not up to me. At the end of the day, we share the same blood. We are siblings and that can''t be changed. It''s the entanglement we can''t deny. But we are just two strangers."

    Xiang Weimin couldn''t seem to find a way to retort to her. Instead, he found her words to be true. They were indeed just strangers to each other even with the same blood in their veins.

    "We are indeed strangers," he muttered. "But we can find a way to be familiar with each other." He looked at her with those hopeful eyes. "It''s the familiarity that builds a rtionship. Can''t we try to find a way to get familiar? I just want to be close to you."

    "Is that why you called out Hyson to talk?" asked Raelle.

    Xiang Weimin was taken aback when he heard that. He did not think she''d know about this. "He told you about that?"

    "There is nothing that Hyson won''t share with me," said Raelle. She wasn''t bragging, she was merely stating a fact here. It was just as she said. The basis of their friendship was honesty. They had always been transparent to each other and never even tried to hide anything from the other. And never felt the need to do so either.

    There was no emotion in her voice. Although she sounded just as pleasantly nd as always, he seemed to feel like he heard an undertone of pride in her words. And those words just stung him and felt bitter as well. It made him once again realize that he had no ce in her life. It reminded him that Hyson was the one who had a ce in her life. And he had a ce that he wished to have but didn''t.

    "Anyway, do you remember what Hyson told you?" asked Raelle making Xiang Weimin look at her. "You don''t have a ce in my life." She had never been the one to mince her words, no matter how brutal it sounded. She had always been straightforward to the point of being rude. But she didn''t care about it. Never did, and never will.

    "I can try to find a ce of my own in your life," he insisted.

    "Howe you didn''t think about finding that ce in my life before this day?" asked Raelle to him. "I don''t think my Opa or Yanyan ever stopped you from finding your way to me. Am I wrong?"

    Xiang Weimin was stumped by her question.

 Chapter 505 - No Good Excuses

    The truth was that Xiang Weimin had no answer to that question. It was true that neither Grandfather Xiang nor Mu Chenyan never came between the siblings. They might have stopped Xiang Hulin from reaching out to his daughter because of that promise but when ites to Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai, they didn''t have the same concerns.

    They never wanted toe between the siblings. That was never their intention. However, it was Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai who chose to distance themselves.

    As for why? It had mostly to do with the fact that they were both young and they both took their parents'' divorce a bit hard. But seeing how even their grandfather chose their youngest sister, both of them were a bit resentful. In fact, they both resented Raelle at one point.

    They were kids and they wanted to put the me on something. They chose to me whoever they heard about. Xiang Weimin didn''t even want to mention in front of Raelle what he had heard when he was young.

    Back then, everyone said their parents divorced because of Raelle and how she was the unlucky star who couldn''t even protect her parents'' marriage. And Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai being too young actually ended up believing those words they heard.

    What he didn''t know was that those words were something even Raelle heard all her life. Just because it didn''t have any effect on her didn''t mean that she was dead all along. She heard it all. The things that someone of her age wasn''t really supposed to hear at all.

    "Grandfather took you out of the country," he said after thinking about it hard. "We lived on different continents."

    But it was only after those words left his mouth that he instantly regret it. Because he suddenly recalled that Hyson also grew up here. There was the exact amount of distance between Hyson and Raelle as them. Or perhaps even more since Hyson had no advantage of sharing the same blood as he did. And yet here they were today.

    Even with all that distance between them, Hyson still ended up bing a part of Raelle''s life. And seemed to be a very important part as well.

    "Why don''t you try another excuse?" suggested Raelle.

    Xiang Weimin took a deep breath, "I don''t really have an excuse. We were young."

    "Now, this one is eptable," said Raelle. "This one I can understand that you''re young. I might not be sensitive to emotions but I have a logical brain. I do understand that when parents choose to divorce, what it does to kids. You don''t really have to exin it to me." She took a pause and added, "However, understanding is one thing. I still don''t have a ce for you in my life. That is a fact."

    Xiang Weimin didn''t expect to hear this from her and said, "We don''t me you."

    "I never was one to me," replied Raelle. "Your parents couldn''t save their rtionship, it had nothing to do with me. It never did. I won''t be taking that me. It was never my responsibility to save their marriage. It was their own responsibility and they certainly didn''t do a very good job at it."

    Xiang Weimin was taken aback when he realized that she understood what he meant. And that gave him aplicated feeling because he also realized that it wasn''t him who had heard those remarks. She did too. He was suddenly curious to know whether she really felt nothing about it all?

    "I''ll be honest with you," said Xiang Weimin. "When Wai and I were young, we did feel resentment towards you. We wanted to find someone to me and from whatever was going on around us, we chose to me you. By the time we started really understanding the reality of life, we couldn''t find a way to reach out to you and just like that, time just drifted away without giving us a chance." He lowered his head, "I apologize for that. I really am guilty of even having such thoughts. And being young really isn''t a good enough excuse."

    "I don''t need your apology," she said. "It means nothing to me since I never had anything to do with you. So, what you thought about me, doesn''t really concern me." Xiang Weimin looked up at her. "If you do want to apologize, you should apologize to my Opa. He is the one who loved you a lot. After all, you''re the eldest grandson of his family. How could you not have a ce in his heart? But you pushed him away. You should know how much that would have hurt him."

    Xiang Weimin suddenly didn''t even know what to say to her or how to react. He couldn''t possibly argue with her on this topic. He couldn''t even recall why he was so naive and foolish as a kid.

    "I do n on going to see Grandfather," he told her.

    "Then you should be looking for him instead of me," said Raelle as she stood up to leave. "It''s useless to look for me. We share nothing except for blood in our veins. It''s better for you to look for Opa who actually loves you."

    "I''m scared," he chose to honestly tell her that. He didn''t think there was anything wrong with telling her that he was really scared of their grandfather. Not because he was scary but because he didn''t know how to face him now.

    "My Opa isn''t scary," said Raelle. "And to you..." she didn''t say anything after that as if leaving her sentence halfway would add some mystery to it.

    Raelle put on her ck shades and turned to leave saying, "Have a good day, Lieutenant! And get well soon!"

    With that, she left his office and walked out. Sitting inside her car, she tapped her fingers on her knee in deep thought.

    "Where to, Miss?" asked the chauffeur.

    "Let''s go back to the office," said Raelle.

 Chapter 506 - Celebrity?

    Since Raelle had to attend a charity banquet tonight, she didn''t n on wasting a trip going back home. And Cloe already knew the routine of Raelle very well. That''s why she had already a rack full of designer dresses for Raelle.

    Right after the working hours, Raelle got ready for the evening. Since Cloe would be joining her, she was also dressed up. Both women left the office together in Raelle''s luxurious car.

    Cloe looked at Raelle''s ck gown and then looked at her own white gown and suddenly felt like asking, "Chief, you don''t like the white color?"

    Raelle didn''t even turn her head to look at Cloe as she asked, "What makes you think that?"

    Cloe shrugged, "You rarely pick white. Your go-to color is red. Your closet must be a dazzling red."

    "But I''m wearing ck tonight," reminded Raelle.

    "So what? ck isfortable," said Cloe. "You only chose ck because there was no dress in red."

    "Aren''t you exaggerating?" asked Raelle. "I don''t think I wear red all that much."

    Cloe snorted, "From now, I''ll take a photo whenever you''re in the red." Thinking of something, she chuckled, "Chief, don''t you think we look like two angels? A white, pure angel and the ck, fallen angel?"

    Raelle looked at her up and down and said, "I think we look more like chess pieces."

    Cloe''s face darkened when she heard that. Why did she have to start this conversation with Raelle? Her boss''s brain really went to all sorts of ces. What did she mean by, chess pieces? Even if chess had white and ck pieces, it did not mean she could justpare them with that!

    In the end, Cloe could only grumble to herself that it was all her own fault for even starting this conversation with Raelle. She really picked up the rock and hit her own foot with it!

    After being called, ''chess piece'' Cloe settled down quietly. Not like she had any other option right now.

    When they arrived at the venue, it was quite lively. The charity event was actually like an annual g. Not only people from the corporate world would be here, but there were also politicians and even celebrities! So, it was quite a grand affair.

    Leaving aside the businessman and politicians, the celebrities were enough to bring a dazzling aura to this event, and perhaps that was the main purpose of the organizers as well. Because with the celebrities came to their fans and the attention ofizens. It might sound offensive butmon people really weren''t interested in a charity event filled with old and greasy businessmen and foxy politicians.

    "We have to walk the red carpet," said Cloe in a low voice.

    Obviously, this red carpet was specifically arranged for celebrities to shine. But this red carpet was more like a battlefield for those celebrities. They''d all dress up to the nine topete and outshine each other. Their only purpose was to get on the trending list. It had always been like that.

    On both sides of the red carpet, not only one could see the rows of news reporters but also the crowd of fans who came to support their favorite star. With name boards in their hands, they shouted the names of their favorite stars making the ce noisy.

    Raelle had to mentally prepare herself before she could walk through this crowd. No matter how she got herself ustomed to loud voices around her, she was still not really used to it.

    As their car stopped, Cloe was the first one to alight. She wore an elegant satin A-Line floor-length long gown with a slit. She was already tall but with her stilettos, she looked taller and imposing. She kept a small smile on her face as she stepped out but didn''t move as she patiently waited for Raelle to alight down.

    Seeing Cloe, the reporters were already curious about her identity. Most of them were from the entertainment media, how would they be familiar with Cloe. But there were also some finance news reporters mixed in the crowd and they obviously recognized Cloe. They might not what President Raelle looked like but they definitely had seen Cloe. And since she was here, their eyes got trained towards the car waiting for the other person to step down.

    As Raelle stepped down, she walked down the red carpet with Cloe without looking around. Since they weren''t celebrities, there wasn''t any need for them to stop or pose for the media.

    There was live streaming of the red carpet going on and currently,izens were in an uproar.

    [Fuck! Who is this beautiful celebrity?]

    [Is she a celebrity? Why haven''t I seen her before then?]

    [Maybe she isn''t a star.]

    [With that face value, how could she not be a star?]

    It had to be pointed out that Raelle wasn''t really dressed in a dazzling gown tonight. It was a charity event, she didn''t think it was a fashion show. In fact, it could be counted as a fashion show but only for celebrities. She wanted to keep a low profile.

    And that''s why she chose a ck casualce long sleeve ankle-length A-line formal dress with pockets. That A-line silhouette, high-low hemline, V-neckline, perfectly entuated her body lines. The satin fabric gave off an elegant feeling but it also showed her natural intimidation and status.

    Her hair was tied in a stylish bun and a diamond neid on her fair neck. Even on normal days, people would find it difficult to not find her gorgeous much less now that she was all dressed up. But there was a differnce. On usual days, people around her didn''t dare look at her straight but today, the crowd couldn''t stop from following her down the red carpet.

    Cloe wasn''t surprised at all to see how Raelle attracted all this attention.. She was actually smug when she saw it. Was it that easy to escape the charms of Raelle Xiang? She demanded attention wherever she went? How could she not even capture the attention of all these face-fans?

 Chapter 507 - King & Queen

    [I don''t think an actress can have such aura?]

    [Then is she from the aristocratic circle?]

    [She gives off that deeply engraved arrogance. She must be from the high society.]

    [I don''t think I''ve seen a socialite like her? Is she new?]

    Thements on the live stream were still going crazy trying to figure out her identity. No one could tell who she was. After all, whether it was abroad or here, Raelle had always had a low profile. No pictures of her could be found online. In fact, those enthusiastic reporters who kept clicking the shutter to take her photos were actually quite poor. Because not even one photo was gonna be able to get on their news portals.

    While all thismotion was going on, another car stopped and a man stepped out. He buttoned up the front of his coat and looked up. Raelle had only reached the mid of the carpet when Shui Xian arrived.

    [Mom, I think I''m gonna climb the wall![1]]

    [This face... Let me lick the screen!]

    [Who is the handsome Gege?]

    [He looks so... dreamy!]

    Shui Xian''s eyes wandered off to those enthusiastic reporters and he frowned a little. Taking long strides, she caught up with Raelle and wrapped his arm around her waist.

    "Surprise," his low voice rang close to her ear as his breath could be felt on the tips of her ears.

    Raelle turned her head and gave him a not-so-surprised look.

    "You''re here," was all she said in a soft voice as she continued to walk.

    Shui Xian held her back and turned to oppose her saying, "Let''s smile for the camera, first."

    "Are youying your im?" she asked.

    "I sure am," was all he said as he smiled at her.

    The picture was dazzling. He looked down at her with a beautiful smile that softened his features but enhanced his handsomeness. And she looked up into his eyes with an expressionless face. However, even though she didn''t have any expression on her face, seeing them together like this one couldn''t possibly find any fault.

    [Crack! That''s the sound of my heart breaking! Woohoo!]

    [This is karma! I climbed the wall and my new idol just went to flirt around.]

    [They look so good together!]

    [And here I thought the picture was already good enough with only one of them around and now that they stand together, I can''t seem to look away.]

    [Why do they look so harmonious?]

    [I feel like they are in their own world and we should not disturb them.]

    "Let''s go now," Shui Xian didn''t n on posing for all night. He just wanted to make a statement and he already had done that. Now, it was time to enter.

    "Sir, look here for a minute!" A young reporter called out.

    Shui Xian turned his head to look in his direction and the smile on his face vaished instantly. His deep eyes stared only for a moment but the young reporter couldn''t bring himself to say anything else as he watched them enter the venue.

    "Phew! I couldn''t breathe for a moment!" The young reporter heaved a sigh of relief.

    A senior reporter patted his shoulder, "You''re lucky Master Xian seemed to be in a good mood."

    The impression Shui Xian left on the crowd was that he was like a charming prince who just walked out of a fairytale. Especially with that smile of his. But those who knew, definitely knew well enough what kind of a prince he was. And none of them even dared to take any pictures randomly. Even if they did, they wouldn''t dare to post it.

    "You''re not really surprised to see me here," stated Shui Xian certainly. Even if she always wore that nk face, he was getting somewhere with his understanding of her. She definitely seemed like she had expected to see him here. But why was that so? He certainly didn''t tell anyone that he''d be attending this banquet. Even his assistant Ma Jin just found out when he appeared before him all dressed up. "You knew I''d be here."

    Raelle extended her hand towards Cloe who ced a small rectangr box in her hand. Raelle opened it and took out apel pin with a design of a crown. She patiently pinned it on his coatpel as she spoke, "I certainly you knew you''de."

    Shui Xian was left with no doubt the moment he saw her taking out thatpel pin. If she didn''t know he''d be here, why would she bring this with her? It was definitely for him!

    "How?" he asked curiously.

    Raelle gave the box back to Cloe as she replied, "Because I had seen the invitation list and your name was there."

    "But I usually send Ma Jin for such events," said Shui Xian.

    "True, but this one you''re gonna attend," said Raelle. "Why do you think I brought it up to you specifically yesterday?"

    Shui Xian''s suddenly had a look of realization, "You baited me?" His eyes widened slightly, "You knew if you brought it up, I''d think of surprising you and I did exactly that! You schemer!"

    Raelle patted his chest, "And you''re married to this schemer now!"

    Shui Xian was amused by her words. "And I certainly love this schemer as well," he pinched her nose lovingly. He couldn''t help it. He wanted to actually squish her in his arms right now.

    "We have shared the same bed for so long," said Raelle. "I certainly am able to understand you enough to know what buttons to press to achieve my desired reaction."

    Shui Xian chuckled to himself, "What''s with this crown? Is this a statement that I''m your King?" Since he couldn''t do anything else, he decided to be cheeky now. He was good at it anyway. And he loved being cheeky with her.

    Raelle lifted her hand up and her fair and slim wrist appeared before his eyes. "I''m making the statement that I''m your Queen."

    Shui Xian was left gaping at her bracelet that he had specifically designed for her. It was a diamond tiara bracelet and it looked so good on her right now. There were three small tiara designs studded with small diamonds. It was a gorgeous masterpiece of intricate mastership. The artisan definitely made this bracelet with love and care. And it was truly made just for her.

    As for what she said, he was so giddy that he didn''t even know how to react. He really was gonna lose all his image and prestige tonight because of his Queen!

    [1] climb the wall: fans joining the fandom of another star

 Chapter 508 - Challenges

    Shui Xian felt like she just shot her heart with an arrow.

    ''His Queen.''

    That definitely sounded too good. Even he could tell that he was smiling foolishly and there was no way to deny now that he was truly a wife ve. She schemed to get him here and in return, he fell deeper for the schemer!

    "Are you after my heart?" he asked.

    "Isn''t it already mine?" she retorted.

    Shui Xian threw his head back andughed heartily. He ced his hands on her face and said, "Gosh, I love you so much!"

    On the side, Cloe felt like she was not supposed to be there. She was actually cursing herself for even being here right now! It was pure torture for her to stand there and listen to this couple. But she couldn''t help smiling as well when she listened to their conversation. She never knew flirting could be done in such a way. Maybe she was out of date now.

    sping Raelle''s hand, Shui Xian entered the banquet hall. As soon as they entered together, there was a smallmotion inside. Not everyone out of the business circle was familiar with Raelle but Shui Xian was a familiar face to even celebrities. Since hispanies indirectly or directly did get involved in the entertainment circle. And now he even directly entered the circle by buying an entertainmentpany.

    All the more reason for this attention was the woman beside him. Those who knew Raelle was gaping at the scene of Shui Xian and Raelle Xiang holding hands and those who didn''t know her, only took Raelle as Shui Xian''s female partner. And even those young actresses were trying to figure out whichpany Raelle belonged to. Because they all unanimously believed that Raelle was a celebrity but since they didn''t know her, she must be a small-time star.

    While walking he looked at Cloe and said, "Oh, hey, Cloe! Didn''t see you there!"

    Cloe wanted to roll her eyes at him but considering his identity she held herself back from doing so. "Hello, Master Xian! It''s not your fault that you can''t see me."

    "Right?" said Shui Xian. "With such a beautiful wife by my side, the world loses its appeal. It''s like, I stand in the crowd of people but my eyes found their way to you." He wasn''t lying though. Even on the red carpet, he was surrounded by so many people. But his eyes were just looking for her and once they locked on her figure, he couldn''t look away.

    "How poetic,"mented Cloe. "But I couldn''t possibly agree more with that." Saying that she nced at Raelle and said, "I''ve been around her for years and yet, I am still not able to look away when she is around."

    Shui Xian looked at her and looked back at Raelle before chuckling, "Why do both look like the angel of light and angel of darkness?"

    "Bingo!" Cloe was excited to hear that. "Earlier I told Chief we look like two angels. But she said we look like chess pieces! Can you believe that?!"

    "Pfft!" Shui Xian couldn''t help it. He gazed at Raelle and said, "That''s something only my wife would say."

    "Was I wrong?" questioned Raelle.

    "You''re never wrong," replied Shui Xian. "But I still am inclined to believe that you look like an angel of darkness." He leaned his head close to her and added, "The irony is, I have never seen someone more full of life than you."

    "Belgh!" Cloe reacted on the side as if she was about to vomit. "I never knew you''re so cheesy, Master Xian." Shaking her head, she found the table which had their names, "Please have a seat, Master Xian. I specifically made the arrangement to have you sit beside your wife. Like it?"

    Shui Xian gave her an impressed look, "I like the way you work. I wish Ma Jin had such observation skills as well. Tsk. I''ll have to do something about it."

    On the other side of the hall, Ma Jin was happily discussing with a few big shots when he felt cold behind his back. He didn''t know why he felt that trouble was brewing for him. Such a strange thought.

    "Chief, you sit here. I''m gonna say hello to the organizers," said Cloe before disappearing from her side. Of course, she would have to do the job of socializing. She wouldn''t let Raelle do this job. Her Chief''s job tonight was to look beautiful! It was never her job to exchange pleasantries with people.

    "Xian," called out Raelle. "Why are you looking at me?"

    "It''s all your fault," he said.

    "My fault?" she questioned.

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "I can''t see the world beside you. Who told you to be so beautiful?"

    "You see me every day," she pointed out.

    Shui Xian''s finger rubbed that bracelet she wore and he smiled at her, "Who said the you who I saw yesterday was the same as the one I see today?" Raelle turned her eyes to him as he continued, "Then how can I get tired of looking?"

    Raelle said, "That''s you trying to find excuses for looking."

    Shui Xian didn''t deny but said, "Right. I think I am looking for excuses."

    "But why are you?" she questioned. Shui Xian raised his brow at her and she said, "When did my husband have the need to find excuses to look at me?"

    Shui Xian ced a hand over his chest and said, "Baby, if you kept talking like this, my heart is gonna burst tonight."

    "Such fragile heart," shemented. "It seems like I have to do a better job at protecting it."

    Shui Xian was stunned for a moment before he said, "I so want to kiss you right now."

    "Why don''t you?"

    Shui Xian smirked, "Are you challenging me?"

    "What if I am?"

    Shui Xian''s face came closer to hers as he whispered, "Oh, I love challenges."

 Chapter 509 - Sweeter Than Honey

    Shui Xian''s face hade very close to Raelle but he suddenly pulled away. Even if his eyes were only on Raelle, he could still feel burning gazes directed towards them. He was still very sensitive to people''s eyes. How could he not feel them?

    "Forget it! I don''t want to satisfy gossipmongers," tsked Shui Xian. Of course, he''d love to kiss his wife. He so wanted to do it! But... He didn''t want to do it in front of all these people. "That just reminded me..." He leaned back in his chair as he ced their sped hands on his leg and continued, "Thank you!"

    "What are you thanking me for now?" she questioned.

    "For what you did today," he answered.

    "What did I do?"

    Shui Xian gave her a look, "Do you think I can''t even understand you this much? If you schemed to get me here, there had to be a purpose behind it. You obviously wanted the world to see us together. It''s like publicly acknowledging our rtionship. And I''m happy for that."

    "Isn''t that what you wanted?"

    Shui Xian paused before his lips curled up, "I did. That''s why I said, thank you!" Then he took a deep breath, "Tomorrow is gonna be a busy day. The stock price is gonna jump and I''m gonna have to deal with all sorts of things." How would the stock price not jump? Just attaching the name of Shui Xian and Raelle Xiang together was enough to cause a stir.

    "Feeling tired already?" she asked him.

    Shui Xian nodded his head but suddenly his eyes brightened, "But it doesn''t matter. I''m also filled with endless energy just thinking about how everyone would now know that we are together."

    Raelle was looking through the list of things being auctioned tonightnguidly. All the people attending had also brought something to auction as well. But there was nothing that caught Raelle''s attention for now.

    "Oh, what a pleasant surprise!"

    Raelle lifted her eyes when she heard that voice and didn''t even bother replying to the person who joined them at the table.

    Soren''s lips twitched when he saw Raelle''s reaction, "Can''t you say hello?"

    "Once is enough for the day," replied Raelle. "And we already said hello earlier in the day."

    Soren directed his attention to Shui Xian as he asked, "How are you able to deal with such a wife?"

    Shui Xian frowned at him, "What''s so difficult? My wife is very easy to get along with."

    Soren gave an awkwardugh, "Love... It really turns the lover blind." He took a pause and added, "Oh! Did you hear that sound?"

    "What sound?" asked Shui Xian.

    "That''s the sound of your IQ level dropping because of love," said Soren with a smug smile.

    Raelle finally closed the auction list and looked up at Soren, "Are you looking for a fight, Soren?"

    Soren looked at her and shook his head, "Why would I be?"

    "Then refrain from pointing your sarcastic words at my husband, you wouldn''t want me to be impolite now, would you?"

    Soren cleared his throat and looked away. He couldn''t even hold her gaze. The scariest thing about her were her words. She really knew how to attack and it was better for him to zip his mouth and protect his soul from her sharp words. Or else, he wouldn''t be able to survive!

    Shui Xian chuckled seeing this. He actually didn''t think there was anything wrong with Soren''s words. He had once said the same words to Soren and now thetter was getting back at him. But poor Soren wouldn''t have thought that Raelle wouldn''t even let him get the satisfaction of getting back at Shui Xian for once.

    Soren was irritated to see Shui Xian''s smile and grumbled, "Clearly, your husband has said even worse things to me in the past." It was no secret to the world that Soren loved his wife a lot. There had been plenty of business partners who wanted to catch his attention by offering him beauties but whoever used this tactic was hardly ever able to avoid the wrath of him.

    Soren was a fool in love and he often said that himself. And since he epted it so outrightly, it was no surprise that Shui Xian would have said one or two remarks. But Soren had always taken his words as just him venting his bitterness for having a failed marriage. Especially since they both married around the same time. They both were young but one''s marriage ended in shambles and the other had lovely twins.

    "Things of the past should stay in the past," was the only thing Raelle said to shut him up. "People who talk about the past all the time, end up living there."

    "You''re very protective of him," remarked Soren.

    "He is my husband," she replied. "It''s my responsibility to protect him, no?"

    Soren suddenly felt sour as he nced at Shui Xian''s cheeky smile and asked, "How''s the feeling of being protected?"

    "Sweet!" replied Shui Xian. "Sweeter than honey!" He couldn''t deny it. This feeling was truly sweet. Something he had never felt before. When was thest time someone took the initiative to speak up for him? He couldn''t even remember. But now that Raelle did, he only now understood what it felt like. It was truly a wonderful feeling. Kind of addicting as well!

    "There is nothing sweet about your wife," said Soren.

    "How would you know anything?" retorted Shui Xian. "You''re ignorant! And jealous since you have to attend such events all alone. Poor you!"

    Soren grinded his teeth when Shui Xian poked his sour spot! Of course, he had to attend these events all alone, his wife didn''t like to socialize with people. She did when she was young but now in her thirties, she really found it tiring to put on a fake smile. So, she chose to stay home. He even tried to scheme against her by saying, "What if some beautiful actress tried to steal me from you?"

    And his wife replied with, "If you''re that easy to steal, then should I bother keeping you?"

    Soren was really frustrated as he recalled this conversation.

 Chapter 510 - How You Play

    "Aren''t you going to greet people?" questioned Raelle to Shhui Xian who was still just staring at her foolishly. Although he didn''t have that silly smile on his face, he was still looking at her attentively. As if there was nothing else worthy of his attention in this hall apart from her. And indeed, that''s exactly how he felt inside as well.

    "My purpose foring had always been you," he answered straightforwardly. "So, why should I bother wasting my time on others? Besides, my assistants are here for that and they definitely can do their job."

    Soon, Cloe also came back and sat down beside Raelle. On her left was Raelle and on her right was surprisingly Soren. She raised her brow at him and asked, "Are you alone? Didn''t bring your wife with you?"

    Soren, who was still sulking because it felt like he got attacked again!

    "Pfft!" Shui Xian couldn''t help it when he heard that question from Cloe.

    Soren gave Shui Xian a look before he looked at Cloe, "Why are you so concerned about my wife?"

    Cloe shrugged, "Isn''t it because I wanted to meet her? Why are you getting so touchy about it?" She was quite sensitive to people''s emotions because of Raelle. Her perception couldn''t possibly be wrong and she could tell that Soren wasn''t happy with her casual question. But did he have to have such a big reaction? She did not think so!

    "She doesn''t like to socialize," Soren chose to reply after taking a deep breath.

    Cloe nodded her head.

    Soren thought of something and added, "However, if she knew you''d be here, I''m sure she''d have loved to join me."

    Cloe''s brows quirked up inquisitively.

    "You''re dating her brother," reminded Soren. "And she had always been particrly concerned about her brother. How could she not be interested in meeting his girlfriend?"

    "Speaking of him," started Cloe. "Soren, why did you introduce your brother-inw to me?"

    Soren wasn''t surprised to hear that question from Cloe. He might have been surprised if she asked such a question when they were in college. After all, back then she was a naive little girl who had too many fantasies. However, her idea of love and life had been altered by Raelle so now, it wasn''t surprising that she could see things differently.

    "Why?" repeated Soren with azy smile lingering on his lips. "Isn''t he a good partner?"

    Cloe peered at him, "Don''t try to avoid it. You and I both know what I''m asking here."

    Soren spread his palms carelessly, "But I really don''t know."

    Cloe leaned over to his side and said in a low voice, "The moment he looked baffled to see me at that blind date, I could already tell something was up. But now, this feeling is getting deeper. I''m certain that there is more to it. So, spill it! Why did you introduce him to me?"

    "Because I thought you needed someone like him in your life," replied Soren. "Xukun isn''t really a deep person. If he likes you, you''ll know. If he doesn''t like you, you''ll know. Although he is a corporatewyer, he isn''t as scheming as any other in the same field. In fact, it''s a surprise how he managed to survive and make a name for himself in this field with his temperament. However, there is a w. He doesn''t know how to speak out his feelings. He hesitates a lot before doing something."

    "Why are you telling me this?" she asked.

    "Don''t you think he sounds particrly like a good match for you?"

    Cloe frowned at him, "Get to the point."

    Soren shook his head at her, "Just give him an opportunity. He really is a good person."

    Cloe rolled her eyes at him, "That''s not even what I''m asking for. I can already tell what kind of a person he is. My question is... Is there a possibility that he knows me from before?"

    Soren raised his brow imperceptibly.

    "I have this strong feeling that he knows me," she said. "I don''t know why. But when he looks at me, it reminds me of the time I used to look at my very first crush."

    Soren sighed, "Why don''t you ask him this question yourself? I shouldn''t be the one answering this question."

    Cloe caught on to something, "So, he does know me from before!" She was certain of that now even more!

    "You have already confirmed that in your head," said Soren. "Don''t act like it''s a surprise. Anyway, as I said, if you want an answer. Ask him!"

    "He avoids it," sheined.

    "Then make sure he isn''t able to avoid it."

    Cloe nodded her head and turned to Raelle, "Chief!"

    "What?"

    "How to make sure my boyfriend isn''t able to avoid my questioning session?" asked Cloe. She was really someone who would run to look for advice from her boss! Even knowing Raelle didn''t faze her at all. She felt like Raelle''s advice could never go wrong. Didn''t it work the other day when she kissed Cui Xukun? Now, she was certain she wanted him! She wouldn''t have reached this decision so soon without Raelle''s advice and Hyson''s push!

    So, she actually had blind faith in Raelle and Hyson''s words as of now.

    "Tie him to the bed," replied Raelle. "If he isn''t able to run, how will he avoid your question?"

    Soren gaped at her while Shui Xian facepalmed himself. Meanwhile, Cloe took this advice seriously and literally! She felt like this was a very good suggestion! Why didn''t she think of this before? It was so simple.

    "How should I tie him up?" asked Cloe again.

    "By seducing him," answered Raelle. "While he is lost in the charm of your eyes, just tie him up. He wouldn''t even know what happened."

    Cloe pped her hands and gave Raelle a thumbs up, "Chief, you are awesome!"

    Soren gave Shui Xian a suggestive look, "Now, I know how you y Master Xian!"

 Chapter 511 - Bullied

    Shui Xian could tell that he misunderstood but he didn''t feel the need to exin himself. The more he said it was gonna turn in the wrong direction. It was better for him to stay quiet instead. It''s not like he felt embarrassed at all.

    As for Raelle, she didn''t think there was anything wrong with what she just said. There was no such thing as words you can say or can''t say in Raelle''s life. She spoke straightforwardly like her personality.

    Soren felt like it wasn''t even fun teasing these two. He sighed to himself and asked Raelle, "Yo, President Raelle, I almost forgot to ask."

    "What?"

    "Are you familiar with Lieutenant Colonel Xiang Weimin?" asked Soren the question he had in his mind since earlier.

    "Not familiar," replied Raelle while Shui Xian frowned when he heard Soren''s question that came out of nowhere.

    "Then why did he ask you to stay behind to talk alone?" inquired Soren suspiciously. Even though he knew that Raelle didn''t lie, he still felt something was wrong here.

    Raelle definitely wasn''t lying to him. She was obviously not familiar with Xiang Weimin. Just knowing who he was didn''t mean that they were familiar with each other. This was the second time they even came face to face, how familiar could they possibly be with each other?

    "Maybe he fell for my beauty at first sight," she said.

    Cloe pursed her lips to hide her smile while Soren''s lips twitched at her words. "I''d rather believe that he was fascinated by that brain of yours. After all, he seemed quite impressed by you when we were discussing the blueprints."

    "Then why are you questioning so much," retorted Raelle. "Whatever attracted him isn''t of my concern." She found Shui Xian looking at her and lowered her voice to say, "I''ll exinter."

    Shui Xian wasn''t that curious, to begin with. So, he didn''t mind waiting.

    Whether it was Shui Xian, Raelle, or Soren, each of them had big shots in their fields. So, their table could be considered quite high profile. It wasn''t easy for people to see these three people together. Since the organizers also knew the importance and status of these people, they didn''t dare have just anyone sit at the same table with them.

    After much consideration, three more people were arranged to share the same table. And two of them soon joined them on the table. One was a middle-aged man with a potbelly who held a ttering smile on his face as he spoke to the old man beside him.

    Even though the old man was trying to keep it in, he still looked annoyed.

    Raelle didn''t want to pay attention to these people but it seemed that it couldn''t be avoided. A young girl ran up to cozy up coquettishly to the man with the potbelly as she whined, "Daddy, ask them to let me sit with my Brother Gu!"

    "Xiaye, I didn''t bring you here to chase stars," the middle-aged man smiled apologetically to the old man beside him.

    The girl called Xiaye pouted at him and her eyes suddenly fell on Raelle. Her eyes widened and she pointed at her and screamed, "It''s you!"

    Forget about others even Cloe was taken aback. She looked at that young girl up and down carefully, trying to understand how this spoiled brat knew her Chief? As for why she called her a spoiled brat, the young girl was clearly proving herself to be one as sheined to her father.

    "Daddy, she bullied me in the jewelry storest time," Le Xiaye red at Raelle and became even more furious when she noticed how Raelle hadn''t even spared her a single nce as if she was still an insignificant dancing monkey in her eyes who didn''t even deserve her nce. Le Xiaye forced a couple of tears as she hugged her father''s arm and continued toin pitifully. "Not only did she steal the piece I liked. She even bullied me before the staff and my friends. She kicked me out of the store as well. Daddy, you have to get justice for me! I don''t want to see her, throw her out of here."

    The old man dressed in a tunic suit had his brows scrunched up in displeasure. He clearly didn''t like this loud youngdy''s whining.

    As for Le Xiaye''s father, Mayor Le had aplex look on his face right now as he stared at Raelle. Forget that she was sitting with Shui Xian and Soren right now. Earlier he had even learned that she was President Raelle, this fact alone was enough to leave him in a difficult position here.

    Sure, he was the mayor and had some power in his hands. But these three people were the giants he couldn''t shake. They controlled the economy, it was not good for politicians to have a beef with businessmen.

    He might not be familiar with Raelle, but he certainly knew that she was from the Xiang family. And he heard a lot about this military family. Just her family name was enough to allow her to be arrogant. But she was outstanding on her own as well. Who would dare go and mess with her? Wasn''t that person looking for death?!

    "Xiaye," Mayor Le gritted his teeth and stopped his daughter from crying her crocodile tears. He knew his daughter best. And he even knew that her mother had spoiled her too much. Both mother and daughter loved using the fact that he was a Mayor. "Stop talking."

    "Daddy, you''re taking her side?" questioned Le Xiaye in disbelief. She looked hatefully at Raelle, "Why should I stay quiet? She insulted me. How can I let it go?"

    "Mayor Le certainly has a good daughter," Raelle''s voice was heard for the first time since they appeared at the table. One couldn''t tell whether she was happy or angry right now just from her voice.. But her words were sarcastic for sure and anyone with a little brain could tell that.

 Chapter 512 - Maternal Uncle

    "I..." Mayor Le''s lips parted but nothing really came out. He felt like his head was buzzing. He couldn''t even think clearly under Raelle''s attentive gaze. There was a threatening power in those nk eyes that seemed to put him under a freezing spell.

    "It seems I really have to gift you that book on parenting," remarked Raelle casually.

    Soren ced a fist before his mouth and pretended to cough to hide his smile while Shui Xian didn''t even bother doing that. On the other hand, Cloe was enjoying herself. She didn''t think there''d be excitement, at this charity g. She was nning on sleeping here. Who knew she''de across a fool who had to insult Raelle Xiang and that too with such arrogance!

    Le Xiaye''s lips trembled in anger as she shot Raelle a furious look. Her eyes reddened as she changed her tactic and said to her father, "Daddy, she insulted me like this back then as well. I was so angry when she said that my parents needed a book on parenting. Don''t you think she is insulting our whole family?"

    "Your daughter is loud," said Raelle. "And I don''t like loud things."

    Mayor Le held his daughter''s wrist tightly in his hand and said, "Shut up! And apologize to her right now!"

    "Daddy?" Le Xiaye looked so wronged as tears fell from her eyes. Earlier she was just pretending to gain the sympathy of others but now, looking into her father''s eyes, she was truly scared. Her father has always given into her since she was an only child. He never raised his voice at her either. Who knew he''d treat her like this in front of everyone. "How can you take her side?" Instead of heeding his words, she grew even more furious.

    Mayor Le gritted his teeth, "I said, apologize to her!"

    "I won''t!" Le Xiaye stubbornly refused.

    "It seems Mayor Le is gettingfortable in his position,"mented Soren as he grew impatient with this loud girl. Originally he was just watching a show since he knew Raelle didn''t need his help but seeing how this spoiled brat even refused to listen to her own father and even yelled at him, a displeased feeling engulfed his heart.

    "It''s been a while," added Shui Xian. "Surely Mayor Le would be feelingfortable."

    Mayor Le felt a chill shrouding him when he heard these two people speak up. They were clearly standing on Raelle''s side. He''d be a fool if he couldn''t even see that.

    "If you didn''t apologize, don''t think about staying at my house!" threatened Mayor Le to his daughter in a low voice.

    "I don''t need an apology," said Raelle at this time. "I don''t like insincere apologies. You better make her disappear from here. I suddenly don''t find her pleasing to the eyes."

    Mayor Le nodded his head, "Yes, sure. President Raelle, I apologize on my daughter''s behalf. If she offended you in any way, please don''t take it to your heart. I really didn''t do a good job at parenting. Don''t worry, I''ll discipline her well. I''m really sorry for this." He even offered a humble bow before dragging his daughter away.

    "He''s tactful," said Shui Xian.

    "That''s called being cunning," Soren chimed in. "And that''s a talent any politician would have. He is no different." He turned to Raelle and asked, "But I wonder, how did that brat end up crossing paths with our Raelle Xiang? You bothe from two very different worlds."

    "Raelle Xiang?" they heard the voice of that old man who had been just listening to everything until now silently.

    Raelle turned her eyes to him. The old man was about the same age as her grandfather, or perhaps a little younger than him. He was wearing sses that made him look like a cultured old man. He had soft features that gave him a mild temperament.

    "Xiang Tianyu''s granddaughter?" he asked again.

    "That''s who I am, Professor Gou," replied Raelle.

    The old man Gou''s brows raised up in surprise when she recognized him and his lips curled up slightly, "That brat, Mu Chenyan really raised you well. I can see her shadow in you."

    "My Yanyan is not a brat," said Raelle. "You don''t get to say it even if you''re her maternal uncle."

    Old man Gou''s eyes widened slightly, "You really know me well, eh?"

    "Even if you''re considered a distant rtive, you''re still my Yanyan''s rtive, I should know something about you," was all Raelle said in her exnation.

    What she didn''t say was that she knew all the history of the Mu and Gou family. One was Mu Chenyan''s paternal family and the other was her maternal family. It wasn''t that Mu Chenyan had no rtives in both families, it''s just that she had no direct rtive. And how could she not know these two well-known families? Both families had expertise in the medical field.

    The only difference was that the Mu family had served as military doctors for generations while the Gou family excelled in medical research. And this old man Gou was currently the Dean of the most prestigious teaching hospital in the Kia District. Not only that, the Gou family even had their hospital branches all over the country. They certainly weren''t someone just anyone could interact with.

    "Tell your Yanyan to pay a visit to her uncle," said Old man Gou. "She should stop acting like we are all dead."

    "That is something entirely up to her," said Raelle.

    "Littledy, you really talk like Chenyan and it''s infuriating."

    "You aren''t the first one to point that out."

    Old man Gou peered at her for a minute before asking, "What are you gonna do with Mayor Le?"

    "Ah, that just reminded me," said Raelle and turned to Cloe. "Help me wrap up a book on parenting and personally visit Mayor Le to gift it. We should help the ones in need."

    Old man Gou''s lips twitched while Soren and Shui Xian burst outughing at her words. That was something only she''d say. Of course, if it was up to them their revenge would have been to directly send Mayor Le back home packing.. But Raelle was never on the same track of mind as them.

 Chapter 513 - I Missed

    Revenge was something Raelle never took seriously. Besides, even if Le Xiaye insulted her, Raelle didn''t think she had to deal with Mayor Le for that. Perhaps, he really wasn''t a good father who did a bad job at teaching his only daughter. But for that, she''d just send him books to help. Why bother ruining his career?

    In all honesty, she didn''t deal with him because such a small fry really didn''t deserve her attention. She''d be wasting too much of her time if she started caring about any Tom, Dick, and Harry.

    Since Mayor Le couldn''t just leave the event, he soon came back to join them but he was sweating. He continued to make his presence small to avoid offending anyone else at this table. He just wanted everyone on this table to forget all about him.

    Thest person to sit at their table was also a politician who greeted Old man Gou politely and gave a nod to Mayor Le. However, he didn''t bother greeting anyone else since he always looked at businessmen with contempt. He didn''t find them as respectable. He believed he was in a higher position than them and these businessmen should suck up to him instead.

    However, neither Shui Xian nor Soren spared him another nce. As for Raelle, it was even less likely for her to pay attention to such a person.

    This politician even brought a date with him. The woman had done exquisite makeup for this event and even more a dazzling attire. She was definitely looking for attention and she did receive it as well. After all, she was pretty and had the perfect curves. Her voluptuous figure gave her an advantage as well.

    As her eyes fell on Shui Xian, her eyes lit up brightly. For some reason, she ended up sitting on the seat beside Shui Xian and her eyes continued to stare at Shui Xian''s face tantly.

    Shui Xian felt ufortable with her gaze even when he wasn''t paying any attention to her. He leaned closer to Raelle and said, "If you like anythingter, let me know. I''ll buy it for you."

    Raelle''s eyes were on the stage as the lights dimmed a little and the event started officially. The MC was weing the guests and Raelle listened attentively. She didn''t think she had to remind Shui Xian that if she really want something, she could just get it. It was easier than saying it.

    "Mr. Shui, it''s such a surprise to see you here," said the woman sitting on Shui Xian''s other side. When Shui Xian didn''t even nce at her, she tried to be even bolder rather than feeling discouraged. "Mr. Shui, don''t you remember me?"

    "Am I supposed to?" retorted Shui Xian in a bored manner.

    The woman pouted as she looked aggrievedly at him, "We metst year at Mr. Su''s birthday party."

    "I met a hundred otherdies that night as well," was Shui Xian''s response. "Am I supposed to remember every single one of them?" He really didn''t want to talk to this woman and neither did he want to create a scene right now. But this woman was really not getting a hint.

    Even though was clearly being sarcastic, it was as if she didn''t get the hint of his displeasure at all. Or maybe she did, she just was thick-skinned and didn''t really care.

    It took her such an effort to enter this venue by hooking up with that middle-aged politician, how could she not take advantage of this opportunity? In the end, she was just a small-time actress. If she needed to go further in her career, she definitely needed the support of someone like Shui Xian.

    "Hehehe..." she giggled as if he was joking with her. "Mr. Shui is so funny. You''re right. How could you remember everyone? It was my mistake. I should introduce myself again."

    "There is no need for that," responded Shui Xian impatiently.

    "Your Chief has no sense of crisis," whispered Soren to Cloe. Even from his chair, he could see what was going on with Shui Xian. He was actually amused to see Shui Xian''s expressions.

    Cloe shrugged in response, "Crisis? There is no such crisis that the Chief can''t take care of. Besides, who would feel crisis from this woman?"

    "These women are the best at seducing men," Soren pointed out.

    "If Master Xian really fell for such seduction then I''d have to re-evaluate him," said Cloe. She noticed how Raelle straightened up and her lips curled up, "Oh, it seems someone is about to re-evaluate her life."

    "Huh?" Soren didn''t really catch on to her meaning yet. But he was about to.

    The sticky woman ced her hand on the table and slid it towards Shui Xian''s hand as she sweetly called out, "Mr. Shui~" Her fingers were just about to touch his when... "AH!!"

    Her scream was so loud that even the MC on the stage was startled. In the hall, everyone craned their necks to see what was going on at the front.

    And what happened was simple. Raelle held a fork in her hand and had stabbed it... Well, no, she didn''t really stab the woman''s hand. Not yet. The fork was stabbed on the table. What made the woman scream was the fact that the prong of the fork was just an inch away from her fingers. Raelle had chosen to poke it right in the middle of her fingers.

    "Oops, I missed," said Raelle in a nd tone as she looked at that woman. "But do you think I''ll miss again?"

    The woman''s hand was trembling in fear as she sat there in a daze. As she looked up at Raelle, she felt like she was looking at a monster. Her words were clearly a warning that this time, that fork didn''t hurt but next time, she''d definitely make it go right through her hand.. Just the thought of that made her shiver.

 Chapter 514 - Gold Master

    Earlier, Shui Xian could easily move his hand away from the reach of that delusional woman who thought she could get his attention but thinking about Raelle, he didn''t do so. Of course, he wanted to see how she was going to react. He, not even for a second believed that Raelle would let a stranger even put a finger on him. He clearly remember that she didn''t like people eyeing her things. And he wasbeled as HERS!

    She asked him a question before, won''t he get tired of loving her all on his own?

    Now, he really wanted to tell her, who said she didn''t love him? The people she called hers were all the ones she loved. Whether she knew it herself or not, he hade to understand it all. With her protecting him, being possessive about him, how was he supposed to say she didn''t love him? Wasn''t it all love?

    It might be difficult for her to understand it but it wasn''t so much to him. Not when it came to her. She was always very honest with her feelings. She just didn''t realize it.

    Although he did not expect the attack weapon to be a fork, he was still very proud. He suddenly felt like standing up and announcing to the world, THAT''S MY WIFE! MINE!

    Oh, no one knew how he held himself back from doing that.

    As Raelle let the handle of the fork go, she straightened up in her seat. That poor fork had actually dug into the table, that''s how much strength was in her attack. There was no doubt that if she had really stabbed that woman''s hand, the fork would have gone right through her skin and bones. Just the thought of it was chilling.

    "Keep your hands to yourself," said Raelle. "I don''t always miss my mark."

    The bone-chilling feeling spread through that woman''s body as she held back her tears and looked at her date pitifully.

    Because of her loud scream, there was a disturbance in the event but Cloe had already stood up to exin to the person who came to inquire and it was solved in no time. The MC apologized to everyone for the disturbance and began the auction seriously.

    Cloe tsked as she sat back in her chair andmented, "Chief really went easy on that woman."

    Soren gaped at her in disbelief, "What more did you want?"

    "At least, a little blood would have been appreciated," said Cloe.

    Soren shook his head at Cloe, "Your Chief likes to stay neat and clean. I think she likes bloodless fights a lot more."

    Cloe shrugged, "That''s also true. If she can avoid getting physical, she''d always opt for it." After all, Raelle didn''t like touching strangers. Why else would she use a fork as her weapon? If she wasn''t ufortable with touching, she''d have actually snapped that dainty wrist of the woman who tried to touch her husband.

    "Honey, did you see what she did?" The woman was crying tears, to her date.

    That politician looked at Raelle and was about to say something when Old man Gou spoke up, "Before speaking, keep her identity in mind."

    "Old man Gou, I respect you," said the politician. "But this woman has crossed a line here." He faced Shui Xian and added, "Isn''t she just your ything, control her. Just because you are a businessman doesn''t mean I can''t do anything to you."

    "ything?" repeated Raelle in interest. "How interesting!"

    Mayor Le was holding his forehead in worry but soon, he felt good inside. Since this stupid politician decided to offend Raelle, it meant his earlier matter could be swept under the rug for now. He''d be saved. And for that matter, he didn''t bother reminding this stupid politician who Raelle actually was.

    "Even if I''m a ything, my status is still higher than you," said Raelle.

    "Mr. Su, watch your words," warned Shui Xian as his eyes chilled. He didn''t want to get involved in Raelle''s matters but he wouldn''t just anyone toment on his wife either. It was uneptable.

    "Did I say anything wrong?" retorted that Mr. Su. "If you dare to bring your canary out of the cage, why can''t Iment on it?" Mr. Su felt justified. Looking at Raelle''s gorgeous looks, he was more inclined to believe that such a woman was not a good thing.

    "Now, I''m a canary," said Raelle. It seemed too low-key wasn''t really that good. Just any trash from the road would get the audacity to talk to her. How annoying!

    *Bzzz...*

    Mr. Su felt his phone vibrating and took it out. Seeing the caller id, he was frowning when he heard Raelle''s voice, "You should take the call, Mr. Su. My Gold Master is finally angry. Good luck saving your life now."

    Mr. Su didn''t take her words seriously and took the call but as soon as he heard the voice from the other side, he paled and stared at Raelle with a horrified look on his face.

    Raelle raised her hand to wave at him, "Have fun!" She pointed at that woman who was still crying pitifully and added, "Keep your trash with you. I don''t like tears."

    "What just happened?" asked Soren in confusion.

    Cloe gave him a disdainful look. "How are you even able to seed in life?" She was really exasperated by this friend of hers. She pointed at the table beside them and the one behind them as she told him, "That''s Chief''s bodyguard, that one too. Oh, over there is another one. In fact, there are plenty of them in the hall scattered around. With their keen senses, how could they not hear what this Mr. Su dared to say? The main point is, they don''t report to Raelle. Those bodyguardse from Mu Chenyan. And they directly report her. Let me give you a warning, you can offend Raelle Xiang but don''t ever dare to offend Mu Chenyan. She is ruthless."

    The rest she didn''t even have to exin at all. Since Soren was not that dumb either. He couldn''t understand what she meant.

    No wonder Raelle said her Gold Master was angry. Soren felt likeughing at this.. Mu Chenyan certainly could be called Raelle''s Gold Master.

 Chapter 515 - Eventful

    Shui Xian was still a little surprised by the turn of events. He was about to lose his temper when Mu Chenyan had already acted. Seriously, that woman was a lot scarier than he thought.

    "Yanyan is overprotective,"mented Shui Xian. And while he spoke, he had already texted his people. So what if Mu Chenyan was about to raise a storm? He could just turn it into a full blown tornado! Who does that bastard think he was to insult his wife and that too right before his eyes? Was he really gonna take it down? Hell no!

    "I know," replied Raelle. How could she not know? She was raised by that woman. If she didn''t know how overprotective she was, who else would know? As for what Mu Chenyan would do to people who dared to offend Raelle, she never really asked. Never really cared either. It didn''t concern her. If they valued their lives, they should have thought about it before daring to mess with Raelle Xiang.

    "This kind of trash should not be in officialdom," said Shui Xian.

    "He won''t be anymore," was all that Raelle said. She patted Shui Xian''s hand and took it into her own as she added, "Let''s not pay attention to it."

    Shui Xian listened to her and agreed. They spent the rest of the time listening to the boring auction. There wasn''t anything that caught Shui Xian''s eyes so he couldn''t even join in the fun of bidding. Good thing, his eyes could still feast on the beauty of his wife or he''d have really fallen asleep. He definitely didn''t look like the Master Xian who was able to stay collected in every situation.

    He finally caught sight of something and started bidding. Raelle didn''t know why he was suddenly interested in that jade hairpin. But she didn''t say anything and let him be. She only bid on a painting and won it easily. The thing she had the most was money, there was no way anyone could win a bid against her. She could smash people with money without a care.

    "I''m hungry," said Cloe.

    "Eat the cakes," said Raelle as she pointed at the variety of cakes ced in the middle of the table. They were neatly arranged. Colorful and looked enticing. However, not a single cake had been touched yet.

    Raelle didn''t like eating at these events. Shui Xian wasn''t interested in eating cakes and Soren just wanted to go back home to his wife! Only Cloe moved her cutlery because she was hungry. But after one bite, she lost her appetite, "This isn''t as good as the one I bought with Fai."

    Thinking of this, she even went to exin to Raelle, "Chief, do you know Fai and I bought cakes from the Sunset bakery? Those were so yummy. You should go with Master Xian and try it some time. I don''t know about you, but Master Xian would love it."

    "Thanks for your kind suggestion," replied Raelle.

    "You''re most wee," was Cloe''s smug response. Raelle didn''t know what she was smug but it didn''t matter. This crazy girl was being happy all by herself. That was enough. When the charity g came to the end, Cloe sighed, "Nothing eventful happened. How boring!"

    "You need more excitement?" questioned Soren. He believed he got quite some excitement tonight and both times it was because of Raelle. No wonder she never attended events. People came looking for trouble even when she was just sitting down, minding her own business.

    "That much excitement was like a snack," said Cloe. "I get to see everyday."

    "Then your life is really eventful,"mented Soren.

    "It sure is," agreed Cloe.

    The MC asked the guests to gather on the stage for a group photo. Raelle was definitely not interested in that, so she pulled Shui Xian along saying, "Let''s go. We''ll have dinner now."

    "I made the reservation for you, Chief!" Cloe reminded from behind and watched them leave. Then she turned to Soren and asked, "Are you staying for the after party?"

    "Do I look like I''m staying?" retorted Soren. "I''m getting out of here."

    Cloe clicked her tongue, "All of them are eager to spend time with their wives. Maybe I should also start disturbing my boyfriend." A sly glint shes past her eyes as she grinned, "I still have to execute the n to tie him to my bed. Hehehe... I should act on it sooner rather thanter!"

    On the other hand...

    "We are having dinner here?" asked Shui Xian as they walked through the hallway of the hotel. "We can just eat at home." He knew she didn''t really like eating out. Once in a while was enough for her.

    "There is a circr restaurant here," said Raelle. "I heard you can see the whole city from there."

    "Yes, there is," replied Shui Xian. "And yes, you can see the whole city as well. But that''s your purpose?"

    "Purpose is just to eat dinner with my husband," said Raelle. "Does it matter where we eat it? It''s just that B¨¤ said you like eating steak at this restaurant. So, I thought I''d just join you."

    Shui Xian''s heart was touched when she said that. So, in the end, it was all for him. Because his father ended up sharing with her how he liked this restaurant, she decided to bring him here. She really knew how to n things properly.

    "Don''t feel so touched," she told him. "I just don''t think it''s okay to disturb the cooks at home at this time of the night."

    "If that''s what you say," he chuckled. "But that can''t stop me from feeling touched. Or loving you even more." Nothing could possibly stop him from loving her more and more. Since his whole world revolved around her, it was obvious that all he saw was her.. How could he not fall in love with her when all his eyes saw were her.

 Chapter 516 - Serve The Purpose

    Shui Xian was not even surprised to see that the whole restaurant was actually empty. Except for them, no other diner could be seen. Whenever it was Raelle Xiang booking a ce to eat, that ce had to be cleared up. Facing this familiar scene, Shui Xian felt like he was one of the protagonists from the Cindera stories and was being introduced to the way of the rich and overbearing CEO. In this case, that rich and overbearing CEO was his wife, Raelle!

    Shui Xian rubbed his nose as he thought about it. It seemed from the beginning, she was really the one ying the role of the overbearing CEO. Sigh! It seemed he could only just get used to this feeling. Nothing else could be done about it.

    Both of them found a seat and settled down. Raelle pushed the menu to him, "Order whatever you want."

    Shui Xian thought about how this sounded wrong somehow but shook off this thought. Whatever!

    He didn''t even nce at the menu and ordered a couple of dishes. Thinking of something, he didn''t forget to order a strong wine as well. Don''t ask him if he did it on purpose. He''d not agree!

    Raelle was neither interested in what food he ordered nor did she care about what kind of wine he asked for. She was still as unbothered with these things as ever. But she did notice how Shui Xian didn''t even have to see the menu to know the restaurant''s best dishes. It seemed her information was spot on! He did love to eat here.

    "So, what happened with your brother?" asked Shui Xian as they waited for the food to be served.

    Raelle wasn''t surprised that he asked about it. And she didn''t try to hide it from him either. She already said she''d tell himter and now that they sat here alone, it was good enough time to share it with him. Therefore, she clearly and concisely told him about the conversation between her and Xiang Weimin.

    Shui Xian listened to her attentively and even frowned a couple of times. At the end of it, he suddenly chuckled.

    "What''s funny, Hubby?" asked Raelle.

    "You," he replied.

    "Me?" she inquired. "No one would agree with that statement."

    "I never needed other''s opinion," retorted Shui Xian. "If I say my wife is funny, she is funny!"

    "I think your sense of humor is broken," said Raelle certainly.

    Shui Xian smiled at her, "I don''t mind."

    "But on a serious note, what part of my conversation did you find funny?" She seriously didn''t think she told him a joke. She hardly even knew any jokes. And all the jokes she had heard in her life hade from Hyson and none managed to impress her. His jokes were really cheap and couldn''t possibly get her attention.

    "I find it funny how you love to y with words," he stated honestly.

    "I y with words?" she repeated.

    Shui Xian nodded his head and went on, "You told him that he has no ce in your life. But you still told him to find a ce in Grandfather Xiang''s life?" His brows quirked up in amusement as he continued, "Clearly, your life can''t be separated from Grandfather Xiang." Raelle silently listened to him without interrupting. "From this conversation, it seems you meant to tell him that he has no ce in your life as your elder brother. But if he tried sincerely, he''d find a ce in your life as your Opa''s only grandson!"

    Raelle looked at him intently and found it interesting how managed to read between the lines. It seemed her husband really was beginning to understand her well. He even managed to tell her thoughts.

    What he said was absolutely true. Raelle didn''t have a ce for an elder brother in life. But being her Opa''s grandson was different. He''d find a ce in her life. Perhaps, it won''t be the one he wanted but it was already a miracle that she was willing to give him a chance to even enter her life at all. And for that, the credit definitely belonged to Hyson.

    If that best friend of hers didn''t have a high opinion of Xiang Weimin, thetter would have never gotten such a chance from Raelle. He was lucky that he met Hyson before meeting Raelle. Because Hyson indeed had controlling power in Raelle''s life. If he directed her to go east, even if she didn''t like it, she''d absolutely give it a try to see what was at the east that attracted Hyson.

    "You''re getting good at it," she praised sincerely.

    Shui Xian tapped his nose, "Of course, I''m getting good at it. I have to keep up with my amazing wife." He leaned over and asked curiously, "But I''m suddenly curious baby, do you really like acting like an overbearing CEO?"

    "It doesn''t feel that bad," she replied.

    As their food was served, Shui Xian took her fork and wiped it with a napkin before offering to her with a smirk, "My dear wife, it''s a fork. It''s used to eat food. It''s not a weapon."

    Raelle looked at the fork and took itnguidly, "If it manages to serve the purpose, it can be anything you want it to be."

    Shui Xian couldn''t possibly disagree with that. Indeed, even if it was a fork, it served its purpose as a weapon quite well earlier. He couldn''t find faults with it.

    "My wife really knows how to use something to be best of its capabilities," said Shui Xian helplessly. "What a shame that you missed the target earlier."

    "Do you think I really missed?" she asked him seriously.

    Shui Xian gave her a sly smile and lowered his voice, "We can''t say out our real thoughts so easily."

    "This is why I don''t say it out loud," said Raelle. "I just act on it."

    Shui Xian lowered his eyes and shook his head helplessly at her.. She indeed didn''t have to say it out loud. She was better at just going for the action!

 Chapter 517 - Too Nice

    As they quietly ate their meal, Shui Xian enthusiastically poured wine for her. He even gave her a toothy grin as he asked her to drink.

    It was not like Raelle couldn''t tell what was he up to but she was unconcerned. This single bottle of wine couldn''t possibly mess with her brain. It might have been possible when she first started drinking. Butter, it became harder for alcohol to mess with her senses.

    Just like that, they ended up finishing the whole bottle. Shui Xian first looked at the empty bottle and then at his wife who was still as gorgeous as before. His eyes lingered on her eyes for a moment and felt pity when noticed how clear her eyes were even now. However, that thought didn''t linger on his mind for long since he definitely felt a little tipsy.

    He was surprised by this realization. Although it was a bottle of strong wine, he did not think it''d have such an effect on him. He knew that Raelle didn''t like going for drinks with her business partners but he was different. She followed the rules abroad but he had been following the local rules of business where meals and drinks were necessary for important business discussions.

    So, he clearly had more experience in drinking than her. Today, however, he seemed to have let his guard down since he was drinking with his wife. It had to be because of his lowered mental defenses that alcohol found the way to attack!

    "Are you okay?" asked Raelle when she noticed his shaking his head.

    "I''ll be right back," he said as he left to use the bathroom. He thought of sshing his face with cold water to knock himself awake.

    "I''ll wait outside then," said Raelle before she left the restaurant. She took out her phone from the clutch and looked at the messages. All the messages were from a single person and it wouldn''t take a genius to know that the person was Hyson. Who else would annoy her with so many messages? Only he had the guts for that!

    Since all were voice messages, Raelle didn''t listen here. Knowing her best friend, it was better to listen at home. She had no faith in her own best friend. Not when it came to such things. Or maybe it was her strong faith in her character that she knew what kind of voice messages these were going to be.

    Hearing the sound of footsteps, Raelle looked up. Seeing that it was not Shui Xian, she lowered her head again. But the footsteps came to stop before her and a strong stench of alcohol assaulted Raelle''s nose.

    "President Raelle~"

    Raelle looked up to see the face of the man who owned such a frivolous voice. Just one look and a thought came to her mind. Did she have some kind of maic attraction towards troubles tonight? Why was everyone looking for trouble with her?

    As for how she knew this man was looking for trouble? It was obvious! The way his eyes leered at her was disgusting. It''s not like she had note across bugs like these who thought they could stick to her since she looked like this.

    "President Raelle is really beautiful," said the man in a slurred manner. He lifted his hand to touch her but Raelle took a step back. "Tsk. What''s the point of having such a beautiful face if you aren''t even gonna let someone appreciate it?" His eyes tantly looked at her face as he added, "How about youe with me? I''ll show you a pleasant time."

    "Do I know you?" she asked calmly. She didn''t really want to argue with a drunk man. They were the worst to deal with. And she might be a patient person but that didn''t mean her patience was reserved for scums as well.

    The man showed a sad expression, "I heard President Raelle has a good memory. How can you forget me so soon?"

    "Oh, then it seems you haven''t heard," stated Raelle. "My brain has a special filter function. It automatically throws unimportant things or people in the trash!" She looked him up and down and went on, "And I don''t remember you, it doesn''t mean my memory is bad. It means my brain ssified you as T.R.A.S.H! Trash!"

    "You!" The drunk man''s temper red when he heard that. "I was being nice to you since you''re a beauty. It seems you don''t appreciate it. Then don''t me me... AHHHH!"

    His sleazy hand was about to extend towards Raelle when someone held the back of his neck and kicked his calf making him scream in pain. The pain was so unbearable that his knees bent and he was forced to a kneeling position.

    Raelle looked at Shui Xian and paused for a moment. There was apletely unfamiliar expression on his face right now. She had never seen it before. She had seen his cold face, his smiling face, his sad face, even his coquettish face but this was the first time she saw him angry. Really angry.

    The red veins in his eyes were visible as his jaw clenched. "It seems I have been too nicetely," said Shui Xian in a cold voice that didn''t match his usually sweet and pleasant voice.

    Shui Xian looked up at Raelle and the coldness on his face melted instantly, "Baby, why don''t you wait in the car? I''ll join you in a moment."

    Raelle turned to leave but stopped to say, "Don''t bete." It''s not she didn''t know what he was up to. But did she care? No! However, it seemed he didn''t want her to see that version of him. So, she''ll just obediently let him be.

    "Don''t worry, this ant doesn''t deserve that much of my time," said Shui Xian with a smile. But as soon as Raelle vanished from his sight, so did his smile.. A dark aura engulfed him as he stared at the man who was trying to remove his hand from his neck.

 Chapter 518 - The Delicate Wife

    Shui Xian pressed the head of that drunk man against the wall making him dizzy. But after that wave of dizziness, he also seemed to have awakened from his drunken stupor and looked at Shui Xian with a horrified look in his eyes.

    "M-Master Xiang!" he stuttered in fear.

    "You''re that young master of the Ma family, right? The one who only knows how to drink and y around" said Shui Xian as if he was casually making small talk. But the look on his face said otherwise.

    Just looking at his face, the young master of the Ma family felt his body trembling.

    "Considering the way you''re looking at me, I believe you have heard about me," said Shui Xian. He pulled his hair and made him look straight at him, "And yet you dared to touch what''s mine?"

    "Master Xian, I was drunk," the man tried to plead. "I made a mistake. Please, forgive me. I''m willing to kowtow before you."

    Shui Xian sneered and kicked him away. The man stumbled but before he could fall down, someone held him up. Shui Xian looked at Ma Jin who hade with his two other assistants. The assistants held up the man and didn''t dare let him escape.

    Shui Xian stepped over and held up that man''s hand. "This is the hand that tried to touch my wife?" It actually wasn''t a question. "I believe you don''t need it anymore." With that being said he held that man''s finger and pushed it. The sound of the bones cracking could be heard but none of the people around him showed a surprised expression. It was only the man whose finger was broken who wanted to howl like a dog but Ma Jin had already covered his mouth.

    Just like that, Shui Xian broke every single finger of his hand. Of course, he could have broken it all at once or he could have broken his wrist but he didn''t think that was painful enough. He wanted him to experience the pain in every single bone of his hand and remember that his wife wasn''t someone he could even covet!

    With tears and snot running down his face, the man was staring at Shui Xian with unwillingness, resentment, and even fear. Shui Xian pped his face lightly and repeatedly as he said, "Just because we all fight a bloodless battle in the corporate world, doesn''t mean there aren''t any casualties. Every one of us has skeletons in our closets. Don''t force me to add you into my collections of skeletons."

    His warning made the man stunned. It was a reminder that he couldn''t fight against Shui Xian. He was nothing before the other person.

    "Ma Jin," Shui Xian called out.

    "Yes, Master," Ma Jin replied respectfully.

    "Send him back to the Ma family and deliver a message to old man Ma. Tell him to put a leash on his son. If can''t do it, I don''t mind taking over the job."

    "Yes, Master," said Ma Jin and dragged the man away.

    Shui Xian watched them leave and looked down at his hand. Tsking to himself, he went back to the bathroom and washed his hands. Not just once but three times as if he touched something disgusting. Then he looked up at his reflection and paused. Closing his eyes, he took deep breaths and calmed himself down. And when he opened his eyes, he was back to being the calm Shui Xian that everyone was familiar with.

    When he said that he had been easygoingtely, he wasn''t lying. Thest time he had beaten someone like that was when he was trying to solidify his position in the business circle. There was no shortage of scheming and jealousy in business. He was also young when he started from scratch with his father. He was naive and had even fallen into someone''s trap. It was only then his father told him that soft-hearted people had no ce in the corporate world. He had to be ruthless.

    However, he hadn''t even been this angry when he had fallen into someone''s trap. Today, he was really angry when he saw that man trying to touch Raelle. He knew how much Raelle disliked strangers touching her. And he had always tried to make sure nothing made her feel uneasy. How could let just any pesky flye and annoy his wife?

    He came down and sat down in the car that had been waiting for him. Although they both came separately, they both were definitely gonna go back together. So, Raelle was already waiting for him inside his car since she let her own chauffeur drive Cloe back home.

    When he settled inside, Raelle turned her head to look at his face carefully. Shui Xian stiffened for a moment under her gaze. He didn''t even dare turn his head to look into her eyes. His hands clenched into fists. He didn''t even know why he was feeling this way. Why was he so nervous?

    Maybe because it was the very first time he acted in such a way before Raelle so he wasn''t sure if she was okay with this side of him or not.

    Not a single reaction of his could escape Raelle''s sharp eyes. Even if it was a bit dim inside the car, it couldn''t stop her eyes from noticing how his body had stiffened. She found it quite interesting.

    "My delicate wife isn''t really that delicate, eh." Raelle''s voice rang out in the quiet space of the car making Shui Xian stunned. He whipped his head to look at her as she continued, "This overbearing CEO certainly likes this feisty side of my Cindere!"

    Shui Xian''s jaw almost dropped at herment. He was so shocked that he couldn''t speak. Certainly, he was the one who called her ''the overbearing CEO'' earlier and he had called himself the ''Cindere'' aka ''the delicate wife''. But why did it sound so different when she said it?

    He pursed his lips and suddenly burst outughing.

 Chapter 519 - Confiscate

    Soren stepped inside the house and loosened his tie as he looked around. The lights in the house had been turned off which was the indication that his twins had already gone to bed. He was about to go up to check up on them when he noticed the warm yellow light in the living room.

    He frowned and walked over. As he looked inside, his lips curled up into a smile. His wife Cui Xuqing was sitting cross-legged on the wool rug with her head on the low coffee table. Soren came closer to her and crouched down to look at her. Herptop was ced on the coffee table and currently on the screen, the slideshow of their couple photos yed. Soren''s smile deepened when he looked at her screensaver.

    Case documents were scattered on the table and she held a pen in her hand. A pair of sses were perched on her nose. Her eyes were closed as she seemed to be sleeping. Soren didn''t want to wake her up, so he slowly and carefully peeled off her sses and set them aside. Suddenly, she moved and opened her eyes slightly to look at him.

    With her arms wide open, she pounced on him and rubbed her nose against his neck, "You''re back?" Her voice was sleepy and she sounded so cute that his heart melted.

    Tucking her hair behind her ear, he hummed, "Hmm... I''m back. Why are you working sote? Go to bed to rest."

    "I was waiting for you," she said with her eyes still closed.

    Soren felt warm inside but it didn''tst long as she opened her eyes and cupped his face to look into his eyes.

    "Look carefully, it''s still me who loves you the most." Soren felt likeughing as she continued, "Your kids are heartless. They didn''t even wait for you and went to sleep. Aren''t I still the very best?"

    Soren patted her head, "Yes, my Qingqing is best!"

    She looked smug as she said, "Of course, I am." She poked his chest and went on, "But you still love those heartless kids more than me!"

    Soren wasn''t even surprised anymore at how she always did this. She truly believed in the saying that children are the debts of past lives. And that''s why she was always mad at Soren for pampering them more than it was necessary. Obviously, she wasn''t a heartless mother but she didn''t spoil their kids as he did.

    "I think our kids are very well behaved," he told her. Seeing her ring at him, he asked, "But do tell me what happened?"

    Cui Xuqing pulled his ear, "It should be me asking you. How dare you buy candies for them behind my back? And you even told them to hide it from me? Those heartless kids have taught you to keep secrets from me now? It''s candies now, what are you gonna hide in the future? A mistress?!"

    "Huh?" Soren was taken aback by how the topic jumped from one thing to apletely different one. He was still feeling guilty when she brought up the candies but where did that mistresse from? "Is that how you think I am?"

    Cui Xuqing snorted, "Don''t show me that cute face. I''m not falling for it."

    "But you did fall for it," he pointed out. After all, all he had to offer back then was his cute face. She was the older one who had a stable career. He was just a university student back then.

    Cui Xuqing cleared her throat and didn''t continue this topic as she said, "I''m warning you. Stop buying things for the kids behind my back. I''m gonna confiscate your cards otherwise!"

    Soren suddenly didn''t seem to know what to say about this threat.

    "Your indulgence is gonna rot their teeth!" said Cui Xuqing and Soren lowered his head. Seeing how he seemed to be reflecting on his mistakes, she sighed and stood up, "Did you eat anything?" Soren shook his head. She flicked his forehead, "Why are you like this? Have you seen the time? Is it okay to skip dinner like this?" She pulled him up and went on, "Go and freshen up. I''ll call someone to cook you something."

    Although she said that, Soren knew very well that she already had the cook on standby so that the cooking auntie could make him a bowl of noodles. It wasn''t the first time he came homete and it definitely wasn''t the first time she was acting like this.

    Their rtionship was just as Cui Xukun had said. One was pampered and the other loved to pamper her. It was quite obvious that Soren always gave in to his wife. How could he not? She had always yed the role of an elder in her life and it was the first time, she got the chance to be pampered. Soren just wanted to do everything possible for her. Even if it meant letting her act like a little tyrant at home.

    As he sat down with a steaming hot bowl of tomato and beef noodles, Cui Xuqing didn''t leave. Even if she had dinner already, she still sat down with him and just watched him eat.

    "You should havee with me," said Soren. "I''d have introduced you to Cloe."

    Cui Xuqing''s attention was caught as she asked, "She was also there?" Soren nodded and her lips turned down as she sighed, "Why didn''t you tell me earlier she''d be there? That brother of mine is not bringing her to meet me and now, I lost another chance to see her."

    "Maybe it''s not fated yet,"mented Soren with a smile. He knew how much she wanted to meet Cloe but he also knew that both Cloe and Cui Xukun needed some time. And with Cui Xuqing''s exciting personality, it was better to just wait.

    "It''s not like I''d eat her or something," shemented. "I just bite but not so often."

    "Qingqing, your definition of ''not so often'' is certainly distorted," he told her while pointing at his chest.

    Cui Xuqing cleared her throat as she said, "I don''t know what you''re talking about."

    Soren chuckled at her reaction and didn''t continue this conversation. It was so weird how even after so many years of their marriage, she''d still be shy.. Obviously, she loved to bite but she definitely wouldn''t say it.

 Chapter 520 - Kiss Scene

    Hyson was yawning while waiting for his scene. Since he was the most inexperienced actor on the crew, he had been spending every day on the set even if he had a scene or not to shoot. Obviously, since he had taken this role, he had to put in his effort. He had never been the halfhearted kind of a person, to begin with.

    Today, they had started shooting at 3 in the morning. That''s why he was feeling so tired. He didn''t even get to sleep for more than a couple of hours.

    "Here, have some coffee."

    Hyson looked at the cup of coffee that appeared before him and then followed the arm to the face of the person. He smiled at her and said, "Thanks."

    He Rou''s eyes sparkled when she looked at his smile. He was so adorable when he smiled that she wanted to pinch his face. But she had to hold herself back. In fact, her first impression of him was that he looked like a conceited prince. He had a noble aura about him that couldn''t be ignored. But there was a twinkle of mischief in his eyes as well.

    However, now that she got to work with him closely she seemed to have gotten a whole new understanding of him. It was only now she learned of his duality. He was adorable at times and gave off a hard to approach vibe at times. It was hard for her to figure him out.

    The good thing was that he always had an inviting smile towards her. And she knew it had more to do with her boyfriend, Pei Zi Hong than his impression of her. If it had just been for her, he''d have been as polite, formal, and a bit distant from her as he was with other actors on the crew. It wasn''t that he didn''t interact with them. He was always sweet and polite to everyone. Even the staff on the crew only had good things to say about him.

    However, he just didn''t try to mingle with others enthusiastically or try towork. He was happy being on his own self.

    Hyson took a sip of the coffee and his face twisted in amusing shapes. He didn''t spit it out but it took him a while to swallow that sip. "It''s ck coffee," he said bitterly.

    He Rou almost squished him when he did that. "Yeah, it''s ck coffee. It''ll wake you up."

    "But I don''t like ck coffee," he muttered.

    She had a troubled expression on her face, "Oh? I didn''t know that. How about you throw it away and I''ll get you a new one?"

    Hyson shook his head, "Forget it. Let''s not be wasteful." Even though he didn''t like this bitter taste of coffee, he still wasn''t willing to throw it away either. First, it was brought by He Rou. He couldn''t just be disrespectful to her. This cup of coffee showed her sincere feelings. Second, he had never been taught to waste food. He just couldn''t bring himself to do it.

    "But you clearly don''t like it," He Rou pointed out as if she had to remind him.

    Hyson shrugged, "Life isn''t always our cup of tea. But does it ever stop us from enjoying it? I don''t think so."

    He Rou was taken aback by his words. It was a simple statement but when she thought about it, she seemed to have understood a deeper meaning. And that made her look at him in a new light.

    Hyson didn''t notice her reaction as he willed himself before just drinking the ck coffee. He kept repeating in his head, ''It''s sweet. Very sweet. Sweet. Definitely sweet! Just drink it!''

    "Oh, did you hear?"

    "Hm?"

    "There is a scene change for today. We''ll be shooting scene no. 35 today."

    Hyson nodded his head nonchntly.

    "You know which scene that is?" she asked.

    Hyson shook his head, "No, is it my scene?"

    "It is," she replied and grinned. "Actually, it''s our scene."

    "Ours?" Hyson raised his brows.

    "Yup!"

    "What''s with that grin on your face?"

    "It''s a kiss scene!"

    Hyson stiffened when he heard that and his eyes widened in shock. He shook his head, "No, there was no such scene in the script. I mean yes, there was a kiss in the book but there wasn''t one in the script!"

    "Teacher Sora revised the script a little. It seems you didn''t check the details in the new version," said He Rou. Noticing how he wasn''t reacting, she frowned, "Don''t tell me, you actually don''t want to kiss me?"

    "Is this really something you should be asking me?" asked Hyson with his brows raised up.

    "I only said it because you look unwilling right now," said He Rou. "Is it because I''m Pei Zi Hong''s girlfriend?" She had lowered her voice when she asked that question.

    Hyson sighed out, "Considering how I call him Zi Hong Ge, you''re my potential sister-inw. Do you think I should feel happy about this situation?"

    He Rou tsked at him, "Do you know how many people want to but can''t have this opportunity?"

    "How about you throw this opportunity to someone else then?"

    He Rou punched his arm lightly, "Aiyo, why are you thinking so much? It''s just acting. You know, acting! It''s not gonna be Fai kissing He Rou. It''s more like our characters kissing each other."

    "It''s the same to me," he replied.

    "For acting, you have to forget that you''re Fai."

    "I understand that point but that does not mean my brain is gonna allow me to kiss you."

    "Wow! You''re stubborn!"

    "You have seen nothing yet," was Hyson''s response as he frowned to himself in deep thought. He definitely didn''t want to have this kiss with his potential sister-inw. It sounded horrible even in his head! So what if it was acting? How was he supposed to convince his little brain of that concept?

    Even if made him seem unprofessional, he was still not able to convince his mind.

 Chapter 521 - Blasphemy

    "Can''t we use those camera angles?" asked Hyson.

    He Rou chuckled at him, "It won''t look that good. Do you think we can still fool the audience with that? Moviegoers have be smarter."

    "Then how about using a double?" Hyson asked again. "I heard stars use doubles for such scenes."

    "Oh, you''re knowledgable," shemented. "But I don''t think our director will agree. Why don''t you bring it up to her?"

    Hyson leaned back in his chair and just gave up altogether.

    "Are you scared of her?" asked He Rou in amusement.

    "Me? Scared of her?" asked Hyson as he pointed at his nose. He snorted, "Anyone can be scared of Amiah Jade, but that anyone can never be me! There is only one scary person in my life and I''m not even scared of her." He took a deep breath and added, "It''s just that I want to finish my scenes in peace. Don''t even wanna get involved with her more than necessary."

    "Such hostility?"

    "Hostility? I have nothing against her though," said Hyson calmly. "The only reason I don''t wanna deal with her is that I can''t deal with people like her. Her personality just doesn''t vibe with mine. And the people who don''t vibe with me, I find them tiring. And I amzy. I don''t like tiring things."

    If Shui Xian had been around at this moment, he''d have loved to hold a conversation with Hyson on this topic and ask him, just what about Raelle was not tiring to him? Howe azy person like him actually managed to squeeze his way into Raelle''s life and that too in the deepest part of her circle.

    But then again as Hyson said, it all depended on whether he vibed with someone or not. And clearly, he ended up finding an instant vibe with Raelle that pushed him to forget beingzy and chase after her. Because somehow he knew he had to rush into her life like a storm or else, she''d be able to push him away as she did with everyone else around her.

    "Or maybe we can just remove this scene altogether," said Hyson as if he opened a new door for himself. "I should talk to Miss Sora. She is a lot easier to talk to. Since this scene wasn''t in the initial script, there is no need to add trouble."

    "The way you''re trying avoid just a kiss scene is suspicious," remarked He Rou. "Don''t tell me..." She leaned closer to his face while he leaned back. "Is this your first kiss?"

    Hyson pushed her away, "What? What first kiss? It isn''t!"

    He Rou gasped, "Oh my! It really is." She just couldn''t believe it. This waspletely different from her expectations. Don''t look at his cute and innocent looks. He did look like a yboy when he smirked. She could bet that girls would swoon whenever he showed that smirk of his. But this guy was actually really as innocent as he looked. How old was he exactly?

    For a whole minute, she wasn''t able to process this fact.

    Hyson cleared his throat and avoided her eyes. Okay, he ept that it was his first kiss and that was also a reason for him to avoid it. He didn''t want to have his first kiss on screen! No, he didn''t want to have a kiss at all!

    "You really haven''t kissed before?" asked He Rou incredulously. "Not even your best friend?"

    "What?!" Hyson almost screamed. "Who kisses their best friend?"

    "Everyone does," said He Rou. "I know I kissed my best friend back in school. And she was a girl." While Hyson was gaping at her in disbelief, she went on, "But seriously, everyone kisses their best friend to practice at least."

    "Do you even know who my best friend is?"

    He Rou suddenly recalled seeing Raelle at the hospital and she stiffened.

    Hyson snorted and held his head as he muttered, "What kind of an image did you put in my head? Kissing my best friend? I still want to live! No, I should say, that was horrible!"

    He Rou pouted, "But it''s pretty normal."

    Hyson shuddered, "I have to cleanse my head and my ears. You''ve polluted me with corrupted thoughts!"

    He Rouughed, "So dramatic!"

    Hyson gave her a re as he took out his phone to distract himself. He didn''t want to listen to this nonsense! Were you even considered friends if you kissed each other? Besides, Raelle was more like his sister. Someone he respected just as much as he respected his mother! He couldn''t even have any other thoughts for her. NEVER!

    Having even thought of this was sphemy!

    He took another sip of his bitter coffee, opened the social media app, and saw the trending topics, he spurted out the coffee!

    "What happened?" asked He Rou. "Are you okay?" She passed him a tissue to wipe his mouth.

    "Thank you," said Hyson. And then he carefully reads all the headlines.

    The headline was quite a sight.

    [President Raelle and Master Xian dered their love on the red carpet!]

    [Master Xian possessive for his leadingdy]

    [Expos¨¦! President Raelle and Master Xian are dating!]

    By this time even He Rou had opened her phone and seen these headlines. She was quite surprised to see it. "Your best friend is married, no?"

    "She is," answered Hyson.

    "Shui Xian is her husband?" she asked tentatively.

    "He is," was Hyson''s response as his lips curled up in response.

    This was an interesting sight. Although he had already heard from Raelle about what happenedst night, he didn''t expect that she''d allow these headlines to appear. Or maybe, it wasn''t that surprising. Knowing his best friend, how could she miss the chance to announce to the world that her husband was off-limits?

    This was clearly a deration that Shui Xian belonged to Raelle Xiang and whoever had their eyes on him should think twice before getting restless.

 Chapter 522 - Good Taste

    Usually, Shui Koshing would prefer reading newspapers or financial news in the morning even if he was no longer a part of the circle. However, today his steward brought something very interesting to his attention and he couldn''t help looking at it.

    Holding the iPad in his hand, he scrolled through all the trending topics and a pleased smile appeared on his face.

    "Master seem very happy this morning,"mented the steward.

    Shui Koshing chuckled, "Of course, I am. My son and daughter-inw are finally announcing their rtionship to the whole world. Why would I not be excited?"

    "Master, they actually haven''t announced anything," the steward pointed out in a humble tone. "They just appeared on the red carpet and seemed close to each other. It''s all the media spections. They didn''t tell anyone about their marriage."

    Shui Koshing gave him a displeased nce, "Let''s not be a spoilsport now. Even if they didn''t take the initiative to announce it directly, this is something big! Do you think these ''media spections'' would have been able to appear without my son''s knowledge?"

    The steward paused and contemted before nodding, "You''re right, Master. Master Xian''s PR team would have already done something about these if he wasn''t informed."

    Shui Koshing nodded, "Exactly! And let me ask you. Have you ever seen anyone daring enough to post even a word about my daughter-inw?" The steward shook his head. "Raelle always had a private life. She never liked attention even though she grew up in attention. However, since this news is out, it has definitely more to do with her than my own son."

    Shui Koshing was feeling better this morning. No, he was feeling amazing. He had been waiting for this moment for so long now.

    "Morning, B¨¤! How are you this morning?"

    Shui Koshing looked up and his face brightened up when he saw Raelle. "I''m feeling amazing. How are you, daughter-inw?"

    "Good, I think," she replied.

    "Raelle, what do you want to eat for breakfast?" asked Shui Koshing.

    Raelle looked at him, not really understanding why this question even came up? When had she ever made requests for food? Wasn''t it always the same?

    "I can eat anything, B¨¤," she told him. "I''m not really particr about food."

    "It''s good to not be picky," said Shui Koshing. "But you should still have some favorite dishes."

    "My favorites had always been associated with people," was Raelle''s honest response that stunned Shui Koshing for a moment. "I never had a favorite color. But once Hyson said Red is my color, I unconsciously filled my wardrobe with red clothes. I have always liked working but my favorite ce to be at had always been home. Because that''s where I''d always find my Yanyan and Opa waiting for me. The sweet vor had never been a prominent part of my life until I met Xian. Since he likes choctes, I ended up always keeping some with me."

    Shui Xian, who was just walking in ended up listening to thest sentence and stiffened. His eyes widened a bit.

    "As I said, I never had favorites in life," added Raelle. "It had always been the influence of people around me."

    "My daughter is certainly very interesting and unique,"mented Shui Koshing with a smile on his face.

    "You don''t find me weird?"

    "Do you find yourself weird?"

    Raelle shook her head, "I don''t. I know I''m different but definitely not weird."

    "Then you don''t even have the need to question me that," said Shui Koshing as he shook his head. He looked up to see his son and called out, "Why are you just standing there? Come inside."

    Shui Xian woke up from his daydreaming and nodded at his father. As usual, he came to sit right beside his wife and silently just gazed at her face.

    "Is there something on my face?" asked Raelle without turning her head to face him.

    He shook his head, "Nope. I just still want to look."

    "Did you both check the trending list today?" asked Shui Koshing.

    "Something interesting there?" questioned Raelle. She was the most disconnected person from social media.

    "Oh, everything is interesting there today," answered Shui Koshing. "But I shouldn''t be surprised that the stars of the news won''t even find the news interesting enough."

    As soon as Shui Koshing mentioned the trending list, Shui Xian''s face bloomed up. He was grinning like a fool at the thought of all the headlines that put his name together with Raelle. Oh, he didn''t know one day seeing his name on the news would feel so satisfying.

    But it was! It was so thrilling and satisfying that he couldn''t possibly describe it in words.

    Shui Koshing knew how Raelle didn''t pay attention to such things. Even if she gave the media a green light, that didn''t mean she''d know what was going on online. He passed her the iPad and let her look at it carefully.

    Raelle read through each and every article online carefully. Then she looked at her husband''s grin and asked, "This is why you''d been so happy since you woke up?"

    Shui Xian didn''t deny her words. And even nodded in agreement to show that it was exactly like that.

    Raelle didn''t know what to do about it. If she knew this simple little thing would make him so happy, she''d have long done it. Who knew he was actually like a kid who was easily happy?

    He moved closer to her and swiped his finger on the screen of the iPad in her hand as he scrolled down to thements and showed her the topment that had over 15 thousand likes and the number was only increasing.

    Thement was simple, [They look like a perfect match!]

    "What do you say about this?" he asked.

    Raelle looked at thement before looking into his twinkling eyes, "I say thementer has good taste."

    Not only Shui Xian but even Shui Koshing couldn''t helpughing at her words.. She always knew what to say.

 Chapter 523 - Potato

    Raelle was getting on her car to leave for work when her phone''s ringtone caught her attention. But her phone was not in her hand. She turned her head and found Shui Xian holding her phone.

    "You should change your lock screen photo," suggested Raelle. "So that we stop mixing up our phones like this."

    "I have a better idea," replied Shui Xian.

    Raelle took the phone from him and attended the call while she still talked to Shui Xian, "And what exactly is that better idea?"

    "I''ll tell you when I''m done with it," was Shui Xian''s mysterious response.

    But Raelle was never curious enough to dig into it so she just waved at him, "Have a good day, Hubby!"

    "Oh, I''ll definitely have a good day," said Shui Xian certainly.

    Raelle sat inside the car and finally spoke in the speaker of her phone, "Why so quiet, Hyson?"

    Hyson snorted, "How was I even supposed to speak when your attention was captured by Xian Ge? Do I look like I''m a lightbulb? Because I certainly don''t wanna be one."

    "What''s gotten into you?" inquired Raelle. "Why are you calling me at this time?"

    "Can''t I just be calling to say good morning?"

    "That''s so not something you''d do," said Raelle certainly. "I''m more likely to believe that you are calling me because of the news this morning."

    Hysonughed, "Bloody hell! It''s really scary how you can read my mind."

    "Don''t you find it scarier when you do the same with me?" retorted Raelle.

    Hyson shook his head, "It seems my bestie is finally gonna be high-profile. Is it because ofst night''s matter?"

    "Obviously," responded Raelle. "I have to be a bit high profile. It''s just a reminder to everyone that Raelle Xiang had never been someone they could take lightly. As for showing up with my husband, I believe it was bound to happen. Why not just do it sooner rather thanter?"

    Hyson sneered, "Bound to happen sooner orter?" He rolled his eyes, "Ellie, do you take me for a fool? It''s obviously a warning to people that Xian Ge is your person. And no one is allowed to touch what belongs to Raelle Xiang."

    "Maybe we should not even have a conversation at all," suggested Raelle. "I can definitely understand you without words and the same goes for you. Why bother wasting time on words?"

    "I''m still against that idea," protested Hyson. It wasn''t like she proposed this idea for the first time. It was definitely as she said, they really didn''t need words tomunicate.

    "Why don''t you just agree?"

    Hyson didn''t reply since he knew she wasn''t really looking for a reply. He stayed quiet for a moment and added, "There are so many expos¨¦''s written for your rtionship with Xian Ge, that this matter is blowing up. Isn''t it strange? You both aren''t even in the entertainment industry and yet, you''re trending on entertainment news. Those actresses who spent hours trying toe up with their red carpet looks must be cursing you both right now."

    "It''s okay," said Raelle. "They can curse as much as they want. It''s not like their curses are able to peel off ayer of my flesh." She paused and added, "It''s enough for me to know that Xian is happy with this development. He seems excited now that we havee out together."

    Hysonughed out loud, "You make it sound like you just came out of the closet!"

    "Do you have anything better to say?"

    Hyson thought about it before adding, "How about, now your rtionship has seen the light of the day?"

    "It''s not like we had some kind of an underground rtionship that couldn''t see the light of the day! We are legally married! Do you even understand the concept of being legally married? Oh, wait! No, you don''t know. Because you don''t anyone to experience it with."

    "Ouch!" was Hyson''s response. "You''re bing snarky!" He smirked and added, "But I love it."

    "Now that you''re done talking about me, how about telling me what''s bothering you?"

    Hyson paused before he smiled broadly, "I thought you didn''t notice."

    "I always notice," she reminded him.

    "That''s true. You always notice," he agreed with her words and sighed. "It''s nothing big. It''s just that I seem to have a kiss scene that I have to shoot with He Rou." And then he gave her all the details, almost sounding quite sulky. He was just a tad bit away from whining like a kid.

    "Why did they add the scene at thest moment?" questioned Raelle.

    "How would I know that?" Hyson really didn''t know about it. "My worry is not the kiss. Even if it''s my first kiss, it really means nothing to me. But that... He Rou is my potential sister-inw, I can''t bring myself to kiss her. I feel a bit ufortable just thinking about it."

    "Do you want me to help?" asked Raelle.

    "How?"

    "Oh, just one call, and the scene will be removed," answered Raelle straightforwardly. It''s not like it was difficult for her to do that. Especially since Sora was Soren''s sister. And Soren would dly do this favor to Raelle. But even if there was no such connection, Raelle still had her means to get the job done.

    "Nah. Forget about it," said Hyson. "I can''t always run from it. I''ll just have to remember that it''s just acting."

    "If you''re ufortable, you don''t have to force yourself," said Raelle. "I can do anything for you. You don''t always have to put up with things."

    Hyson''s smile turned gentle as he hummed, "I know. My Ellie is all-powerful. But I don''t want to always hide behind my Jie. Just knowing that you''re there for me is enough. I didn''t call you toin. I just had to share it with you." He took a moment''s pause to add, "And now that we have talked, I feel like I can get through this. I can definitely do it."

    Raelle didn''t add any other words. And neither did Hyson have anything else to say. He really shared it with her just because he knew it''ll make him feel better. And it did. Now, that kiss scene wasn''t as repulsive to him. As he had said, his first kiss really meant nothing to him.

    "If you can''t do it, just close your eyes and imagine you''re kissing a potato," suggested Raelle.

    "How does that make it any better?" he asked in amusement. "I''d rather imagine a watermelon."

    "So, no potato? Up to you," replied Raelle.

 Chapter 524 - Girl Crush

    That day, the employees of Shui Cooperation were having a field day of gossip. It seemed as if everyone''s whole world suddenly copsed. And why wouldn''t it be like that? Over 85 percent of employees had ced a bet in the hopes of winning. Originally, the prize pool wasn''t big. After all, these white cors wouldn''t dare take a big amount of money out of their pockets.

    However, these small chunks of money that they did take out, ended up making up a hefty sum. It wouldn''t have hurt anyone but the thing was, this hefty sum ended up in the pocket of a single person! Because only that person had ced the bet on the right career of their Master Xian''s partner!

    Worst of all, they didn''t even know the identity of the winner since the betting was done anonymously on the inte and even the money transaction was online. They couldn''t find anything unless they hacked into the system.

    "I can''t believe it!" was the sentence most heard throughout the whole building. "Master Xian is actually dating President Raelle of Xiang Conglomerate!"

    "She is a legend!" said someone from the secretarial department. "And she is my girl crush as well."

    "She is currently everyone''s crush," reminded the man beside her. "This is the first picture of President Raelle on the inte and it''s enough to make her everyone''s crush. She is so gorgeous!"

    "Right? I never thought the woman whom everyone named as a devil was actually so breathtaking."

    "Most importantly, when she stands with our Master Xian, they look like a match made in heaven."

    "Theyplement each other perfectly!"

    Someone saw Ruan Meilin walking and instead of lowering her voice, she raised it as she said, "In fact, only someone like President Raelle deserves to stand beside Master Xian. Both are brilliant people and definitely look perfect together."

    That woman even gave Ruan Meilin a provocative smile with a glint in her eyes. It was obvious that she wanted to rub this fact in Ruan Meilin''s face. But her words were sincere. She really meant it when she said that Raelle deserved to stand beside Shui Xian. She had never thought that someone as jealous as Ruan Meilin deserved to put even her name beside Shui Xian.

    Originally, she had nothing against Ruan Meilin and might have even looked up to her when she first joined thepany. But as she became Shui Xian''s assistant, she started to stand out as a thorn to Ruan Meilin and she repeatedly made things difficult for her. It was only then that this young woman''s whole worldview crashed and her admiration for Ruan Meilin turned into despise.

    On the other hand, the exhrating person in thepany apart from Shui Xian had to be Ma Jin who was grinning from ear to ear. He won the bet. Why wouldn''t he be happy? Technically, he cheated since he knew about Raelle and even knew more than it was reported in the news. However, he believed that he only had this advantage since he was Master Xian''s personal assistant and that was already not a ce everyone could reach.

    "Feeling happy?" asked Shui Xian when he saw Ma Jin''s grin.

    Ma Jin tried to control his expressions but couldn''t hide the excitement in his eyes, "I was thinking about saying thank you to you, Master Xian."

    "Oh?" Shui Xian raised his brow at him.

    Ma Jin cleared his throat, "Well, I did win this bet because of the trust you have in me."

    "If you''re so thankful, how about you give that bet money to me?" suggested Shui Xian seriously.

    Ma Jin wilted instantly and looked up at him sadly. He hesitated but still said, "I''ll transfer the money then."

    Shui Xian shook his head at him, "Jin, you''re an idiot! Do you think Ick that much money? Besides, you have my trust because you earned it. That little amount of money can''t possibly be exchanged for your loyalty. And if I can exchange it for your loyalty, I don''t mind doubling that prize money of yours."

    Ma Jin smiled at him, "Definitely don''t need that. Master Xian already treats me very well."

    "But do you reallyck that prize money? I thought I pay you enough."

    Ma Jin almost rolled his eyes at his words, "Master Xian, this is different than my sry or bonuses. The betting has a different kind of thrill. You won''t understand."

    Shui Xian shrugged, "I don''t want to understand either." He had never had an interest in betting. Unlike people from his circle who loved to bet on car races, or horse racing and stuff. He always kept his distance from such gambles. Life was already a big gambling game, he couldn''t afford to stake another bet.

    Ma Jin waited for a minute before asking the question that''s been bothering him, "Master Xian, you didn''t announce your marriage to President Raelle?"

    Since Ma Jin was truly his loyal aid, he didn''t mind telling him, "Let''s surprise people slowly. If I drop the bomb all at once, it might overwhelm people. Let them first digest the news of me dating."

    "Got it," Ma Jin understood instantly. And he grinned again, "But I must say, it''s really good. Our stock price just soared this morning. It was a baffling scene." While he was grinning, he was thinking about how this kind of news had almost no impact on Xiang Conglomerate. Good or bad. There were no waves at all. Their stock price was always on the rise and there was no surprise in that.

    After all, everyone said Xiang Conglomerate''s sess was dependent on their chairwoman, Raelle Xiang. Even a scandal of any employee couldn''t stir its stocks. Raelle Xiang always knew what she was doing when it came to business and it was because of this unconditional trust people had in her capabilities that no one could possibly shake her business empire.

    Sometimes, even he looked at Shui Xian and tsked, "Master Xian really got lucky.." If it was not luck, then he didn''t know how else Shui Xian managed to marry someone like Raelle Xiang.

 Chapter 525 - Kid

    Ruan Meilin had been in a daze since this morning. She couldn''t process the news that she came across early in the morning. She had been under the impression that Shui Xian got back together with Tang Hebe. But now, it seemed she was wrong.

    From the moment she saw Raelle and Shui Xian''s picture together, she was stunned. She felt stifled as she stared at Raelle''s face intently. She couldn''t look away. She usually would find it difficult to focus on anything else once Shui Xian was in her sight. But for the first time, she didn''t even look at Shui Xian as her eyes were glued to that confident, gorgeousdy in his arms. She could feel the regal aura engraved deep in her bones even from just a picture.

    It sucked her breath away and she went nk.

    She thought having Tang Hebe back in Shui Xian''s life was the worst of the possibilities. It was only now that it struck her that it wasn''t true. Seeing someone like Raelle standing side by side with Shui Xian was worse. Because they actually looked very well matched. Both were at the top of their fields and both had an aura that couldn''t be ignored.

    Her fingernails dug into the skin of her palm as she wondered how or why this happened? She had been beside Shui Xian for years. Since the time Tang Hebe left him, she had been by his side. But howe he never noticed her? Why did he end up noticing Raelle Xiang?

    But then again, she couldn''t reallyin either.

    Who was Raelle Xiang? Who in their business circle hasn''t heard of that woman? By the time Ruan Meilin graduated from University, Raelle was already ruling the business world. And ironically, Raelle was even younger than her!

    Although she had heard about Raelle''s notorious mouth, that never stopped people from admiring her talent. She wasn''t a social person but people really wanted to suck up to her. And yet, she was the person people were most scared of approaching as well. After all, it was said that she was the most difficult kind of person.

    Why difficult?

    Because she meant what she said. She never had a double meaning behind her words. She always spoke things in a brutally honest way that pierced through the hypocrisy filled in this corporate world. She neither liked to be ttered nor did she ever tter others.

    Even when she first started working at a young age, there were hardly people who could stand against her.

    "But such a domineering person couldn''t possibly be a right fit for Xian," she wondered out loud to herself. She thought that they both had a domineering personalities so their rtionship couldn''t possibly work.

    The poor woman didn''t even know that Shui Xian and Raelle were like two pieces of a puzzle that seemed to fit perfectly well. After all, they both took the active or passive position in their rtionship. It''s just that Raelle seemed to be the dominant one at times. And it couldn''t be denied that Shui Xian didn''t mind at all.

    He loved seeing her taking control of things. Even if it was taking control of him!

    "Maybe they are just friends and it''s all media spections," she tried to deceive herself with those words. But her inner voice got to her with, "But when did the media be so daring to write about Shui Xian without his permission?"

    Ruan Meilin seemed to have felt the crisis, even more, when she was reminded of that. She could deceive herself that there was nothing between them but she really wasn''t able to do so. The truth wasid before her eyes and she couldn''t delude herself with lies anymore.

    Her nails had dug into her palms and even blood hade out. But she didn''t care. She angrily stood up and walked to Shui Xian''s office. If she couldn''t get what she wanted, she''d not allow others to be so happy either.

    "What is it?" questioned Shui Xian in a business-like manner.

    "Bebe is back at her parents'' home," she told him while observing his expressions.

    There was no change in Shui Xian''s expressions. Although his hand did pause for a split second, he resumed his activities after that. Tang Hebe was after all his ex-wife, he''d at least have some reaction to her name. But this split second''s pause wasn''t exactly because she was his ex-wife once. It was because they were good childhood friends once as well. Something he couldn''t possibly deny.

    "Oh? And why are you telling me that?" he asked.

    "She brought a four-year-old kid with her," added Ruan Meilin with a twisted expression. "I thought you''d like to know."

    "It has nothing to do with me, why should I know about it?" he retorted.

    Ruan Meilin was stunned by his reaction. That was so not the reaction she was expecting from him. Shouldn''t he be doubtful about the kid? Doesn''t he want to know if it''s his kid or not? Why is he so calm? Or is he pretending? she thought to herself.

    However, whichever it was, she couldn''t tell. Because Shui Xian''s expressions didn''t give away anything.

    "Meilin, if you want to work, focus on work," warned Shui Xian. "I don''t need to hear gossips."

    "But... I thought you should know about this," she added. "That kid..."

    Shui Xian raised his hand to cut her off, "Leave. Whoever''s kid that is, I don''t care."

    "Even if it''s yours?" she didn''t know why she asked that with a raise in her voice.

    Shui Xian looked up at her and added, "Even if it is mine, I don''t care."

    Ruan Meilin was taken back by that answer. She did not expect to hear something so heartless from him. How could he even say that? Was he really not curious?

    Shui Xian watched her leave and sighed as he rested his head back and rubbed his temples. Obviously, he wasn''t really heartless but as for that unknown kid.... He knew it wasn''t his.

 Chapter 526 - Freedom?

    "Ge!" Xiang Wai called out to her brother who had been gazing out the window in a daze since he got in the car. She could tell something was on his mind but he wasn''t saying it.

    "Ge!" she called again.

    She pped his shoulder, "Would you listen please?"

    Xiang Weimin finally looked at her and asked, "What? What happened?"

    "I''m calling you," she said.

    "Oh? I didn''t hear you," he replied nonchntly.

    "Is something on your mind? Why are you so lost?" she finally chose to ask outright instead of guessing. "Are you that unwilling to go to mom''s birthday party?"

    "As if you''re willing," retorted Xiang Weimin and turned his head on the other side. "And if it''s a party, why are you dressed in that casual jeans and shirt?"

    Xiang Wai looked down at her attire and shrugged, "It''s not like she cares about what I wear. The only good thing about our mother dearest is that she''d never say anything about our choices. Even if she doesn''t agree with it, she won''t stop us."

    "Like she didn''t stop you from joining the military?"

    Xiang Wai sighed, "Yeah. Just like that. Clearly, she was unwilling to see me join the army since you already joined the air force. But she still didn''t say anything and let me be."

    "Do you think that was the freedom she offered us or she didn''t care about us enough to even bother saying anything?"

    Xiang Wai was stunned silent for a minute. "If we are just guessing, I''ll just choose to give her the benefit of the doubt that she really meant to give us freedom. It''s you who always told me to look for the good in her."

    "Right," he agreed. "Indeed, I told you to always give her the benefit of the doubt." He took a pause and added, "And maybe you''re right. She wanted to give us the freedom that she didn''t get to have. At least, I''d like to think it that way."

    Xiang Wai smiled bitterly and stopped the car at the red light. She pulled out a piece of chewing gum from her pocket and started chewingzily while she whistled carelessly. Her fingers tapped the steering wheel rhythmically.

    Xiang Weimin waited for a while before he suddenly told her, "I met Raelle."

    Xiang Wai''s fingers stopped and so did her whistling. She nced at her brother and quirked her brow up. "Really? Where?"

    "At the research center," he answered.

    "I heard she is a genius," said Xiang Wai. "Mom would have loved her."

    Xiang Weimin snorted, "Really?"

    Xiang Wai shrugged her shoulders, "I''m just saying. If that kidnapping didn''t happen and she didn''t have to make a choice, she''d have definitely loved Raelle. After all, she wasn''t quite impressed with both of our intelligence. Raelle would have made her proud and followed her footsteps to be the top scientist out there."

    Xiang Weimin shook his head, "I still think it''s better she didn''t grow up as we did. She is born a ruler. Someone who has to stay inmand. And someone who won''t tolerate your tardiness. She is an interestingdy."

    "Is she?" Xiang Wai was intrigued to hear such an evaluation from her brother whom she trusted the most. "Why would you say that?"

    "She really knows where it hurts," he chuckled. "And she doesn''t seem like someone who ever filters her words. She says whateveres to her mind. I won''t say I wasn''t warned. Yue Fai did warn me about that but I still chose not to pay attention to those words. Who knew he was right. Raelle is brutal with her words."

    "Did she say something to you?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "She said a lot," he answered. He rubbed his hand on his face, "And I couldn''t even deny anything she said. The two things that really struck me were; she had no ce for an elder brother in her life. And she doesn''t have feelings."

    "So that doctor wasn''t being overly sensitive when he said that something is wrong with her,"mented Xiang Wai as she remembered what happened the other day in the interrogation room.

    "I won''t say something is wrong with her though," said Xiang Weimin. "Yes, she doesn''t feel emotions, but is it enough to say something is wrong with her?"

    Xiang Wai contemted his words before shaking her head, "We get to see worse traumas and psychological conditions in the soldiers."

    "Exactly," agreed Xiang Weimin. "So, I didn''t really think anything was wrong. For a moment, I did feel bad for her. But then I also felt happy that she knew nothing about feelings. At least, in that way, she didn''t have to suffer." He smiled bitterly, "But I was wrong."

    "What do you mean?" she inquired.

    Xiang Weimin looked at her side profile as she kept her eyes on the road while driving. "We weren''t the only ones who heard people call her a jinx. Someone who couldn''t protect her parents'' rtionship. She also heard some things much worse. Kids are supposed to be the threads tying the parents together but she became the child who cut that thread instead. But unlike us, she sees things a lot clearer."

    "I feel like her words really got to you," Xiang Wai pointed out. She could see how much her words got to him but she won''t deny that just hearing this much had struck her as well.

    Their parents'' marriage had never had anything to do with them. Much less, Raelle who was just born. She might have been thest straw but she definitely wasn''t the reason for the divorce.

    "Ge, don''t think so much," said Xiang Wai. "If you want, I''ll go with you and apologize to her for ming her once. We were young and a bit naive as well. Although it''s not enough of a reason, still it can''t be denied that we didn''t know many things back then."

    Xiang Weimin smiled at her, "I wish she needed an apology.. It''d have made things a lot easier for me."

 Chapter 527 - Couldnt Manage

    Xiang Wai didn''t try to continue the conversation with Xiang Weimin. Suddenly, Raelle''s face popped up in her head and she knitted her brows slightly. Indeed, all she saw on that beautiful face was nkness. Her eyes were void of any emotion that she was familiar with. At that time, she had only thought that Raelle was good at hiding her emotions.

    She even found it impressive but now that she heard about how she didn''t have feelings at all. It made her slightly ufortable. Her mind wandered off.

    "I thought it was just a dinner,"mented Xiang Weimin when he looked at the cars outside the residence. Xiang Wai also frowned and found a space to park her car.

    "It looks like a party," said Xiang Wai. "But then again, I should have thought about it since she invited me toe to the Song family house. If she only wanted to have dinner, she could have called us to her penthouse."

    Xiang Weimin groaned, "I don''t have the patience to deal with her family!"

    Xiang Wai raised her brows at her brother, "I''m the one who has no patience for this. You can at least do a better job at hiding your displeasure!"

    She alighted from the car and looked at the grand courtyard dwelling before her eyes. This was the Song family''s ancestral house, located in the heart of the city. It looked majestic and gave off an ancient vibe. But god forbid, Xiang Wai hated this ce with every fiber of her being!

    Or perhaps, it''s not the ce. It''s the people who live here.

    Xiang Weimin also took a deep breath topose his emotions beforeing down from the car. As Xiang Wai was about to take out his crutches, he waved his hand, "I don''t want it."

    Xiang Wai paused, "Ge, how will you walk?"

    "I can manage," he responded.

    "I know how strong your willpower is, but you''d strain your muscles. What if it dyed the recovery?"

    Xiang Weimin still didn''t take the crutches, "I don''t want it."

    Xiang Wai saw the determination in his eyes and tsked as she gave up convincing him. He was being stubborn which was rare for him to do but she couldn''t evenin about that. Not like she didn''t know why he refused to walk through the door of this grand dwelling with crutches.

    But she still chose to hold his arm to support him. However, she was making it look natural so no one could tell that she was actually supporting him. She held the gifts in a bag and even told her brother, "The gift in your box is actually a jade bracelet. Don''t ask for the details. I know nothing."

    "Thest thing our mother is interested in is jade or jewelry of any kind."

    "Why else do you think I bought this for her?"

    Xiang Weimin gave her an amused nce, "You are trying to purposely piss her off?"

    "I have always respected her," replied Xiang Wai. "But obviously, just because I can''t talk back to her doesn''t mean I don''t have my ways to piss her off!"

    Xiang Weimin shook his head helplessly. It couldn''t be helped, his sister had gotten addicted to annoying their mother at every possibility she got. But the thing was, most of Xiang Wai''s bad habits only came out because she wanted their mother to notice her. At least, she wanted some attention to feel like she had a presence in her life. It''s sad that she never really got the attention she wanted and now, Xiang Wai only did things purely to piss their mother off!

    As the siblings walked through the door, the butler only offered them a casual nce before he greeted other guests.

    "I say, sister Xin, where are your kids? Why aren''t there here yet? How can they bete on such an asion? Look at my Jiaojiao, she had been here since morning and even helped in organizing everything for your party."

    Xiang Wai rolled her eyes when she heard those wordsing out of her Second aunt. She wasn''t even surprised anymore.

    "Jiaojiao is a sweet child. Very hard working."

    Xiang Wai heard her mother''s voice and stopped in her track. Seeing her clenched jaw, Xiang Weimin patted her hand and offered her a smile. He could understand her feelings. Their mother had never bothered to offer them anypliments. In a way, these siblings were quite pitiful.

    "Mom!" she called out sweetly. As much as sweetness she could bring out after spending years in special forces. But honestly speaking, she wasn''t left with much sweetness. And whatever was left was all used up on her brother.

    Song Xin''ai turned her head to look at Xiang Wai. The middle-aged woman was dressed in an elegant dress that hugged her body. She had a sense of pressure around her body because of her position. But the most catching part about her was her face that looked like the older version of Xiang Wai.

    Yes, the mother and daughter had startling simr features. However, neither Xiang Wai was happy about that fact nor did it seem that Song Xin''ai liked that fact.

    Song Xin''ai''s expressions didn''t show anything but Xiang Wai could see the trace of displeasure in her mother''s eyes when she saw how casually her daughter was dressed up for the night. But she chose not to say anything and moved her eyes to the man beside Xiang Wai. Looking at Xiang Weimin who resembled her ex-husband, she smiled softly, "You both are here."

    She walked over to them and said, "You''rete."

    Xiang Wai looked at her watch and shook her head, "Nope. Perfectly on time."

    Song Xin''ai looked at her daughter''s face and sighed, "I know I asked you toe at 7 but I was hoping you''de earlier. Didn''t I tell you that?"

    "You said I should trying earlier and I did," replied Xiang Wai with a sincere expression but the three of them knew very well how sincere she was right now.. "But I just couldn''t manage it."

 Chapter 528 - Violet

    Song Xin''ai knew she couldn''t argue with her daughter. She was never the kind of person who liked arguing. She was a quiet person since she was young and even with age, that fact didn''t change at all. If anything, her words became even lesser with age since she found arguments to be quite pointless.

    "Forget it, now that you''re here, go and greet your grandparents. They are resting in their courtyard right now." Song Xin''ai instructed the siblings. And while Xiang Wai was about to leave with her brother who was still silent since the beginning, Song Xin''ai called out to her, "And Violet, I hope you don''t say anything to aggravate your grandparents. They are old." It sounded like she was pleading to her daughter right now. She looked at her son and added, "Wei, keep an eye on her."

    Xiang Weimin gave her a nod while Xiang Wai only snickered.

    "I hate it when she calls me Violet," stated Xiang Wai in a bad mood. Tonight was already not looking good to her. And she knew it could only get worse from this point onwards. It couldn''t go the other way around.

    "But that''s your English name," reminded Xiang Weimin as they crossed the outer courtyard where the party was organized and entered the inner courtyard. They still had to walk through the main hall before reaching the resting chambers of their grandparents.

    Xiang Wai sneered. She really hated that English name of hers that her mother gave her. And no one else aside from her even called her that. But it was actually Song Xin''ai from whom she didn''t want to hear that name. It reminded her of how important she was to her mother. So important that she casually gave her the name Violet just because her favorite color was violet. It was pathetic!

    When the siblings entered the resting chambers of their grandparents, there were already a couple of people inside. Two of them were their cousin brothers from their eldest uncle''s family and thest one was a girl from the third uncle''s family. Everyone wasughing and chatting which instantly ceased once they entered the room.

    "Hello, Grandfather, Grandmother," greeted Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin inly. "How is your health?"

    Of course, Grandfather Song and Grandmother Song didn''t have a good expression seeing these maternal grandchildren of theirs. Obviously, all of them were their grandchildren but the Song elders since like Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin who had the blood of the Xiang family. Besides, these siblings never had a sweet mouth and never tried to tter anyone.

    All the other grandchildren tried to cozy up to their grandparents but neither Xiang Weimin nor Xiang Wai felt the need to do so. They both still had the blood of a military family in their veins. They never even tried to tter their own superiors! What was the point of saying flowery words?

    "It''s so hard to see Weimin Gege," spoke the daughter of the third uncle, Song Qiao.

    "Qiaoqiao, don''t be silly. Our Lieutenant Colonel Xiang Weimin is a busyd. How can he have time to see you?" Hearing the words of the eldest son of their first uncle, the Xiang siblings didn''t even blink. They really treated him like air. Seeing their attitude, Song Nan was infuriated so he turned to their grandparents, "Am I right, grandfather? He doesn''t even have the time toe and see you."

    Xiang Weimin gave him a smile, "You''re right, cousin. I am a busy person. I don''t have the time to serve my grandparents. After all, my mother always said how serving our country should be our priority."

    Their grandparents'' faces stiffened when they heard those words from Xiang Weimin. They were old but not senile and couldn''t understand the sarcastic undertone behind those words.

    "Enough," said Grandfather Song trying to sound powerful but of course, he lost his aura before the Xiang siblings. He was a schr and his anger could only make his paternal grandchildren flinch in fear. These siblings on the other hand had a lot more powerful aura around them. He scowled at how unbothered they were and his mood became worse as he thought they didn''t respect him, "You both don''t have toe here if you don''t want to. I''ll only get madder if I see you."

    "Then we''ll disappear," said Xiang Wai with a smile and took her brother out. "Old man is half in the grave and yet wants to discipline me."

    Xiang Weimin rubbed her head, "You don''t have to drop his level and curse him."

    "Who wants to curse him? I want him to live long enough to see how painful life can be," she spat out.

    "Don''t let them get to you," advised Xiang Weimin.

    "If had let them get to me, I''d have already killed myself a thousand times!"

    Xiang Weimin bit his lips and said, "I''m sorry!"

    "For what?"

    "You had to grow up with them," said Xiang Weimin. "I wish I could take your ce."

    Xiang Wai chuckled, "Take my ce? I wouldn''t want that. Besides, my mother only chose me back then because I looked like her. She thought I''ll turn out like her but I ended up being a big disappointment to her. Let''s not ruin our mood because of them."

    Xiang Weimin held her hand and stopped her from walking, he looked into her eyes and asked, "Do you think we let our impression of these maternal grandparents influence the impression of our paternal grandfather?"

    Xiang Wai was stunned by his question and didn''t speak for a good while. She looked into his eyes and said, "Even if that''s true, it''s already been done. What can you do about it now?"

    Xiang Weimin smiled bitterly, "I want to do what Raelle told me to do. I want to apologize to grandfather." Xiang Wai continued to look at him in silence as he went on, "And I wish you''de with me. Even if it''s to see whether all grandparents are like the ones we just met or not.. I think we should go to see him."

 Chapter 529 - Recognition

    Xiang Wai didn''t answer him and Xiang Weimin didn''t force her to do so. He would give her space to think about it on her own. He knew his sister, she never liked being forced into anything. So, whatever her decision would be, she had toe to it on her own. He won''t be saying anything unnecessary to make the matters worse. It was not worth it.

    But he could tell that his words had gotten to Xiang Wai since she seemed to be lost in thought. And she exactly was thinking about what he said. It would be a lie if she said he had never thought about her paternal family. There was no doubt that her father was a good person, even if she usually didn''t ept it before him. However, she couldn''t deny the love her father offered her.

    Since the time she understood the biasedness of her maternal grandparents, she had wondered if her paternal family was also like that? Or maybe they were different? From the vague memory of her childhood, she knew they were different. And she used to believe all grandparents were as loving as her paternal grandparents. And that''s why she wanted to get close to her maternal grandparents when she first moved here with her mother.

    Needless to say, it didn''t go well.

    "Let''s find a ce to rest," suggested Xiang Wai as she extracted herself from these thoughts and looked at her brother. Seeing the beads of sweat on his forehead, she was hurt and wanted him to just sit down somewhere. He didn''t have to put himself into this situation just because he didn''t want to face too many questions or sarcastic pity of the Song family.

    "I''m okay," he answered even though his legs were really shaking.

    Xiang Wai frowned at him, "Ge, does it matter how they look at us? They have never liked the fact that we followed our father and joined the army instead of turning out to be geniuses like them. You should stop hurting yourself for them."

    "I just don''t want to be questioned what happened, or how much it hurt h h h. I''d rather bear with this pain than have to give an exnation to everyone." He didn''t like talking unnecessarily. Much less socializing. Why would he put himself in a situation where everyone woulde to question him? He''d rather just be invisible.

    Xiang Wai found a couch beside the dessert table and helped him sit down. She looked at the outer courtyard which was decorated tonight and filled with guests by now as well. Everyone was a person from the field of science, technology, medicine, painting, and whatnot. But what they all had inmon was that they were all schrs.

    Schrs who didn''t match the temperament of soldiers like them. It was a disaster to be here tonight for them.

    "It''s a grand birthday banquet," said Xiang Wai with her eyes narrowed. "Don''t you think so, Ge?"

    "It certainly looks like it," replied Xiang Weimin.

    Xiang Wai tapped her chin thoughtfully, "And when did our mother be so important in this family to deserve such treatment?"

    It was quite ridiculous how their mother, Song Xin''ai was the only daughter of the Song family. And yet, she barely had a presence in this family. She had three outstanding brothers. The brothers were so brilliant that they kept burying her in their shadows all her life. No matter how great she was, she could just neverpete with them.

    It wasn''t that she was ordinary but she was still considered average when she stood beside her brothers. And these brothers even married equally outstanding wives from the same fields as they were in. How would anyone like Song Xin''ai''s choice, Xiang Hulin? He was, after all, just a soldier. So what if he came from a legendary family of generals? It did not elevate his status in front of these stubborn schrs who were full of themselves.

    "Did she get awarded for her research or something?" questioned Xiang Wai.

    "Do I look like someone who pays attention to such things?" retorted Xiang Weimin. "Because I''m certainly not interested in her life."

    Xiang Wai shrugged, "Neither am I. Forget it." She looked around and asked, "Want to eat something?"

    "No," he answered.

    "Professor Song, your children are all grown up now," a woman in a green dressmented with a huge grin on her face while she came towards Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin with Song Xin''ai in tow. "I must say, they both have exceptional features."

    Song Xin''ai smiled at the woman and introduced, "This is my daughter..."

    The woman waved her off and interrupted, "Oh, please! Do you think you need to introduce them? No way. I know them. This is Major Xiang Wai and Lieutenant Xiang Weimin."

    "Hello!" Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin greeted the woman politely. No matter what differences they''d have with their mother, they''d never embarrass her in front of strangers. Besides, unless they were in a bad mood, neither one of them would be disrespectful to a stranger.

    Song Xin''ai chuckled in surprise, "I didn''t know you''d be familiar with them."

    "I''m not exactly familiar with them personally," stated the woman as she tapped her manicured nail on the champagne ss in her hand. "But I had the honor of attending one of those military banquets where all the higher-ups would gather. I saw them there. And believe me, I''ve only heard good things about them. You must be proud of them."

    Song Xin''ai continued to smile in response without a word. Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin couldn''t possibly tell what was on her mind. Was she proud of them?

    Well, that was the question they had long stopped dwelling about. Why would they? Her recognition meant nothing to them.. Just because she wasted all her life trying to find some recognition from her parents, they weren''t gonna follow in her footsteps and do the same.

 Chapter 530 - Boyfriend

    "I remember how those wives of those officers were trying to find a match for your son,"ughed the woman in green as she recalled the memory. She certainly knew how reputable Xiang Weimin was in the wing. Adding on his merits with his good looks, which woman in their right mind would not find him as a perfect husband material or a son-inw material?

    She knew she did. It was such a shame that she had no daughter to match with him. Or else, she wouldn''t have stopped.

    Xiang Weimin didn''t react to her words and continued to smile politely.

    "Xin, have you been looking for a daughter-inw?" asked the woman. "How about I help introduce someone?"

    Suddenly, even before Song Xin''ai couldment, their Second Aunt appeared to join the conversation as she said, "Mrs. Gu, how can we bother you with such family matters? You''re a busy person and shouldn''t be troubled."

    Mrs. Gu smiled good-naturedly at Second Aunt Song as she stated, "I don''t find it troublesome. Xin is a friend. I''d love to help her out."

    "Aiyo, but you don''t know how my young sister-inw has already her eyes on someone," stated Second Aunt Song proudly as she nudged her distant niece ahead. Subtly implying who exactly was Song Xin''ai''s choice.

    Mrs. Gu could see what she was doing. And she wasn''t an easy person either. Since Second Aunt Song was so eager to but heads with her, then why not? She''d apany her. She looked at Xiang Weimin and smiled, "I''m must be getting old now. Ipletely forgot that we live in the modern age now. How can we elders decide regarding such things? Our children are old enough to make their own decisions."

    Second Aunt Song seemed to disagree, "How is that possible? We are still in a country where elders are respected. And following traditions doesn''t make us old-fashioned. Our elders would certainly not make the wrong decision for us. After all, what they do is all for our own good. We might not understand it now but eventually, we all understand it." On one side, she was saying this for Xiang siblings and Song Xin''ai and on the other hand for Mrs. Gu. In fact, she wanted to say this more to Song Xin''ai but apart from Song Xin''ai, no one else could understand this point.

    "Weimin, I didn''t even ask you," continued Mrs. Gupletely ignoring Second Aunt Song''s words. "Do you have a girlfriend?"

    Second Aunt Song''s smile stiffened as she stared at Xiang Weimin waiting to hear a reply.

    Xiang Weimin shook his head, "I don''t," was his reply.

    Second Aunt Song sighed and then her smile brightened, "Our Weimin is really a traditional man. He doesn''t date."

    Xiang Weimin raised his brow at her in amusement, "I didn''t say I''m not dating right now."

    Mrs. Gu''s brows also quirked up in interest as she waited for Xiang Weimin to continue while Second Aunt Song looked confused, "But didn''t you say you don''t have a girlfriend?"

    "But I have a boyfriend," was his in response that blew Second Aunt Song''s mind.

    Song Xin''ai only nced at her son and didn''t think much about it. Mrs. Gu was enjoying herself while holding herughter back. Xiang Wai was also trying to control herself fromughing out loud. She wanted to kiss her brother right here. Sometimes, he was just too good at annoying people to death!

    Only Second Aunt Song and her dear niece, Jiaojiao looked like someone sucked their whole blood. They just blinked at him, not knowing how to react.

    "Second Sister, let''s go. We should cut the cake now," suggested Song Xin''ai as she pulled her sister-inw away.

    Behind her, Mrs. Gu couldn''t stop herughter anymore and patted Xiang Weimin''s shoulder, "You are too good."

    Xiang Weimin looked at her, "I don''t know what you''re saying, I''m just speaking the truth."

    Mrs. Gu sneered, "Of course, you are." She almost rolled her eyes at this man who was still immersed in his lie. She had heard how single he was at that banquet. He was not only single but he was also called the man who married his work! More precisely, his aircraft models! He was obsessed with it to the point that he neither liked to socialize nor did he date anyone.

    But it could also be possible that he had a hidden lover. Who was she to pry into it?

    "But even if you do have a boyfriend, that''s even better! I wish you luck for the future!"

    Xiang Weimin was certainly amused by her reaction. Xiang Wai however couldn''t hold herself back from asking, "Mrs. Gu, I heard Dr. Gu is a very strict and conservative person. How do you both make this marriage work?"

    Mrs. Gu looked proud as she sipped on her champagne and told her, "I bring the smiles hecks in his life and he knocks the sense into my head that Ick. In this way, we both bring something to the table that the other needs. Isn''t it perfect?"

    Xiang Wai nodded her head in understanding, "You''re amusing and very interesting. You must have been a cool person in your youth?"

    Mrs. Gu shook her head, "Nah! I was a wreck back then. The coolest one was definitely your aunt Chenyan."

    Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin looked straight at her as she continued with nostalgia, "No one could match her coolness or swagger! She was the standard back then."

    "You knew Mu Chenyan?" asked Xiang Wai.

    Mrs. Gu nodded her head, "I not only knew her. We were ssmates as well. We even joined the medical school together and surprisingly, we even left it together." She sighed, "I haven''t seen her in so long but I can still remember her very well." She smiled at Xiang Wai and added, "Especially, when I look at you."

    She didn''t add anything and left the siblings looking at her receding back. They both had the same question in their mind, why did Xiang Wai remind her of Mu Chenyan? Shouldn''t people be reminded of their mother looking at Xiang Wai since they looked so simr?

 Chapter 531 - Only Mine

    From the moment Shui Xian had heard about his ex-wife''s return, he hadn''t thought about it even once. The thought didn''t even cross his mind as if that little didn''t even happen at all. But the truth was, it did happen. And he knew it too. However, his brain finally decided to attack him with that reminder when his gaze fell on his beautiful wifezying around in their lounge room. At that moment, he mentally cursed Ruan Meilin for even bringing this up with him.

    He didn''t think it concerned him at all. It certainly didn''t since they had divorced for so long.

    Raelle hade home earlier than usual which was already rare for her. Her hair was tied up in a high ponytail with a yellow ribbon while shezed on the L-shaped sectional sofa in the lounge. She wore a yellow dress that reached her knees. Currently, her legs were stretched on the sofa as her she reclined backfortably. The tv in the lounge was turned on and an international business news channel was ying. But Raelle''s eyes were on the book in her hands.

    Oh, there she was waiting for him.

    Okay, there was a 50 percent chance that she actually wasn''t waiting for him. He just liked to tell himself that. But there was another 50 percent chance that she was waiting for him. In fact, you never know about Raelle''s intentions. It was hard to tell. But this feeling ofing back home to see her wasforting and heartwarming.

    Shui Xian stared at her for a moment in silence and he was reminded of the time he had asked her, "Can''t you do one thing at a time? Either read a book or listen to the news. Are you even able to pay attention to either of them at the same time?"

    She had looked up from her book and nced at him, "I can certainly pay attention to both. My ears can listen to the news, my eyes can see the book."

    "But it''s your mind which has to process it all," Shui Xian had pointed out. "Your eyes can''t read, the brain can. Your ears can only deliver the sounds, your brain has to make sense of those sounds."

    "But my brain is differently wired," she had said. "I can process things faster than most people. I can even write two different things with both my hands at the same time."

    And now, he really didn''t have an ounce of doubt that she could really process everything at the same time if she wanted to do so.

    Raelle had already heard Shui Xian''s footsteps but for a long while, when he didn''t make another sound, she lifted her eyes to look at him. "Why are you just standing there, Mr. Husband? If you''re that interested in looking at me, juste closer. It''ll lessen the strain on your eyes."

    Shui Xian''s lips curled up as he walked over and fell down on the sofa tiredly with his head resting back. "It''s always my wife who is worried about my health."

    "Wee back home, Mr. Husband but you''rete," she said.

    Shui Xian raised his brows and gave her a pout, "It''s because my wife didn''te to pick me up."

    "I don''t want you to develop any bad habits," she said inly.

    "Huh? Bad habits?" he questioned.

    "This bad habit of expecting me to be your driver every day," was her response.

    Shui Xian chuckled, "Oh, please! I can''t afford such an expensive driver."

    "That is certainly true," Raelle didn''t even try to deny his words just for the sake of it. She bluntly just reminded him that she was expensive. Oh, she was expensive and exclusive. Definitely not everyone''s cup of tea. "But I can give you the privilege of having me as your personal driver every once in a while. And I''d havee to yourpany if it wasn''t for the heated news everywhere. My appearance at yourpany would have caused another trending news."

    "You''re already of that?" he asked.

    "I don''t like people digging into my life," she said. "That is one of the reasons I didn''t want to announce our marriage just yet. Now, I already feel like personal life is quite exposed."

    Shui Xian''s eyes gazed at her gently. He lifted his hand and his finger yed with her earlobe as he said, "Thank you!"

    With Raelle, he didn''t have to exin what this thank you for. She knew it already. She knew he was feeling happy that just for him, she chose to expose her own identity and brought herself in front of everyone. But this was already testing her limits considering how private of a person she had been all her life.

    He held her hand and squeezed it as he repeated his words, "Thank you so much!" He brought her soft hand up to his lips and dropped a lingering and long kiss.

    "Mr. Husband," she started. "There is no need for this. I didn''t do it to make you feel grateful towards me."

    "Then why did you do it?" he asked in amusement.

    "Because I wanted to do it for you," she replied striking straight at his heart once again. "And it''s the least I can do."

    Shui Xian chuckled, "You always say that. And still, you end up doing a lot."

    Raelle''s eyes held his as she told him, "I don''t think I need to remind you that I always take things seriously in life. This marriage is a very serious and important matter to me."

    Shui Xian pinched his nose, "Aiyo, whose cute wife is this?"

    "Yours," she replied seriously making him burst intoughter.

    Heughed so much that tears had brimmed into his eyes. He rubbed the corner of his eyes and nodded his head while humming, "Right. This cute wife is definitely mine." He tapped her nose and added, "All mine.. Only mine."

 Chapter 532 - Wasting Time

    At this moment, Shui Xian forgot everything and only had Raelle in his eyes, in his mind, and in his heart as well. No, she was everywhere. Everywhere!

    "You should get changed, Mr. Husband," said Raelle while pushing him a little.

    Shui Xian stood up to go back to the room to change but stopped to look back at her as he tilted his head, "Darling, why are you talking like that today?"

    "Like what?" she asked.

    "Like this," he replied.

    "Like what?" she repeated.

    "Like this."

    "Like what?"

    "Oh my gosh! Are we really doing this?" he asked in exasperation. They had been going back and forth at it for a while now. And it was so not like her.

    "You''re a littlete in asking that question, Mr. Husband. Because we are already doing this," she pointed out.

    Shui Xian smiled at her, "And why are we doing it. That''s so not like you."

    "And what''s like me?" she asked him.

    Shui Xian pointed at the book in her hand, "Reading books is like you." He took a pause and asked, "By the way, what are you reading?"

    "99 ways to annoy my husband," she replied.

    Shui Xian frowned and chuckled at her, "That''s a funny joke."

    "I''m not joking though," she responded and even held up the book cover towards him which literally read, ''99 ways to annoy my husband.'' Shui Xian was left gaping at that while she added, "I told you at the very beginning of our rtionship that I don''t joke."

    "Yes, yes, I should take your world literally," he spoke in amusement. "Because you''re always serious."

    "I always am," she replied.

    Shui Xian shook his head, "Why are you wasting your time annoying me? Don''t you value your time more than gold?"

    "It''s not called wasting my time," was her solemn response. Shui Xian''s brows quirked up in question and she continued, "I''m interacting with my husband. How is that called wasting time? And how I spend this time with my husband is definitely up to me."

    Shui Xian was left frozen in his ce for a minute before his lips stretched into a beautiful smile. The one that Raelle couldn''t take her eyes off of even after spending months with him.

    "Oh gosh! I so want to kiss you right now."

    Raelle sat up and held his tie in her hand, she gave it a tug, pulled him towards herself, and kissed his lips just like that. As she pulled away, she whispered, "Wasting time is what you just did, Mr. Husband?"

    "Huh?" Shui Xian was disoriented after being pulled down like that.

    "Instead of wasting your time on telling me that you want to kiss me, you should save time and just do it instead."

    Shui Xian bit her bottom lip and said, "Thanks for the wise advice, darling. I''ll keep it in mind in the future."

    "I''m happy to help," she said.

    Shui Xian pushed her down and mashed their lips together. Well, you couldn''t me him for that. She teased him first. Now it was difficult for him to pull away. His knee settled in between her legs while his one hand roamed in her hair, tugging down the ribbon that held up her hair in a ponytail. His other hand was holding the side of her face, caressing it lovingly but burning with an unspoken passion and desire.

    He was panting with his eyes straight into her eyes, losing himself in that voidness that her eyes held. Those nk, empty eyes were bing his safe haven. Now, they were already his safe haven. Because those eyes always found his. Anywhere and everywhere. And he''d always find himself in those eyes.

    "You should really change now so we can go down for dinner," said Raelle as she licked her lips.

    Shui Xian''s eyes inadvertently followed the movement of her pink tongue swiping over her red lips and may heaven give him willpower, he was so tempted to capture that tongue once again.

    He rubbed his thumb on her lips and sighed, "But you''re seducing me. How am I supposed to leave when I''m shackled by your charm?"

    "I shackled you?" she questioned with interest.

    "Certainly," he replied. "My heart is under your spell and so is my whole body. I don''t even feel like anything belongs to me right now."

    "Guess what?"

    "What?" he raised his brows in question.

    "I belong to you," she said. "Legally." She took a pause and added, "And I should not even have to remind you of that."

    Shui Xian grunted as if he was almost at his limits and the beast within him was stirring toe out and attack. Oh, how he wanted to swallow her up right now!

    "If you keep doing this," spoke Shui Xian through gritted teeth. "The only one having dinner tonight would be me and you''d be the menu." He poked her forehead and added, "So, behave!" He stood back up and took a deep breath to calm himself down which was really difficult looking at how her dress had hiked up to her thighs because of him.

    His disobedient eyes couldn''t help from staring but he shook himself awake. He had to do so.

    Raelle watched him leaving and straightened her dress as she mumbled, "Who said I''d be the menu? At the end who''d eat who can''t be said for sure."

    If Shui Xian had heard those words, this little sweet encounter would have turned into a full-blown fight of burning desire and passion. At this point, Shui Xian had no doubt that his wife was a yer. It was difficult to say it was her first rtionship. She was always ahead of him and always knew which buttons to press to get to him.

    Certainly, sweet words weren''t something Raelle Xiang would say but she did. Why? Because he liked those sweet words. And since she figured it out, she had gotten good with those sweet words. So good that he was always left speechless.. Not like him being speechless before her, was anything new.

 Chapter 533 - Under The Moonlight

    "Come, join us for dinner, Mr. Husband," Raelle beckoned Shui Xian over and even pulled out the chair for him attentively.

    Shui Koshing was left suppressing his smile. Oh, how he wanted to be invisible around these two. Wait! He really seemed to be invisible to these two since they never cared about him and did whatever they wanted. Were they not taking him seriously? Well, it didn''t matter. He was more than happy to be forgotten as long as his son and his daughter-inw were happy together.

    And today, he was over the moon because of the news. He had received so many calls from his old business partners or acquaintances who wanted to confirm whether it was true that Shui Xian and Raelle were dating? He was feeling smug when he told them they were. But he was a bit down considering how their marriage was not announced.

    However, he also thought it was right not to do so. His son owed a wedding to his precious daughter-inw. It had to be a grand one and that''s the only and the right way to announce their rtionship.

    So, he was feeling pretty satisfied with the current state of things.

    Shui Xian sat down beside Raelle as always and looked at the table filled with dishes tonight. He knitted his brows, "B¨¤, who is gonna eat all of this?"

    "Oh, I asked them to make it all for Raelle," replied Shui Koshing.

    "And do you think she can eat it all?" asked Shui Xian to his father.

    Shui Koshing pursed his lips while Raelle asked, "Do you want me to eat it all, B¨¤? I can eat it if you really want me to."

    Shui Xian rubbed her head, "Stop it! You don''t have to force yourself just because of him." He narrowed his eyes at his father dangerously.

    Shui Koshing nced at his son and shook his head, "Raelle, you don''t have to eat it all. But you can taste everything a little bit."

    "Okay," said Raelle and picked up her chopsticks.

    Shui Xian knew it was time to stay quiet now since she was not gonna talk while eating. So, he silently picked up some shrimps and peeled them for her. But even while he was focused on peeling shrimps, his mind was wandering off. He was hesitating whether to tell Raelle about his ex-wife or not.

    He knew that Raelle had the least interest in his past but he really wanted her to know. And he also knew that she liked to be always in control. As she always says, she doesn''t like surprises. He could see how badly she always wanted to be in control of the situation when he heard her talking about her family. Even if none of them were part of her life, she knew them. Because she didn''t want to be kept in the dark.

    While Shui Xian was trying to be subtle, Raelle had long noticed that he wanted to say something to her but kept holding back. She could see it from the moment she saw hime back. And that was one of the reasons she chose to tease him a little.

    Although that did help in elevating his mood, there was still something on his mind. And it seemed it couldn''t be solved unless he said it out loud.

    After dinner, Raelle didn''t go upstairs. Instead, she pulled Shui Xian towards the backyard to take a walk with her. "What''s with the sudden mood to take a walk at this time?"

    "Isn''t it good?" she retorted whilecing their fingers together. "Under the moonlight, your hand in mine."

    Shui Xian nced at her, "Exactly where are these wordsing from? This is really not like you."

    "Don''t you think there are plenty of things that aren''t like me that I have done after marrying you?"

    Shui Xian was stumped. When he thought about it, he couldn''t agree more. Maybe he didn''t know her that well before their marriage but he certainly could see that she had done things against her ownfort. Somehow, she had been taking a little step out of herfort zone for him. He didn''t know how to react to this sudden realization.

    "I don''t want you to change anything for me though," he told her. "I love you for who you are."

    "Who said I''m changing?" she asked. "I''m just taking a step towards you. If I can''t offer you love, I have to offer something in return. Or this rtionship will be unbnced."

    Shui Xian rubbed his thumb pad on the back of her hand as he smiled, "Who said you don''t love me? I think you love me very much."

    "I do?" she asked. "Howe I don''t know that?"

    Shui Xian stopped in his track and turned to face her, "That''s because you don''t even know what love feels like. But let me assure you, what you''re going through is definitely love."

    "Oh?" was Raelle''s only response.

    Shui Xian was feeling smug at the thought. He obviously wasn''t just trying to fool her by saying it. He meant it. Yes, she didn''t know what love was but whatever she did for him, it made him feel loved. So, maybe she didn''t realize this was love but he wasn''t as oblivious. There was no doubt that she loved him. He won''t believe it otherwise.

    Shui Xian tried to walk again but she didn''t move. He stopped and looked back at her inquisitively.

    "Mr. Husband, what''s on your mind?" was her question. "If you want to tell me something, just do it. Don''t waste time mulling over it."

    Shui Xian stared at her face long and hard before taking a step back. He sighed heavily, "Sweetheart, is it okay for you to read me like an open book?"

    "Didn''t I tell you before that there is no difference between people and a book? Both have a story to tell.." She took a pause and added, "And both are fun to read as well."

 Chapter 534 - Cold War

    "Let''s go inside, sit downfortably, and then I''ll tell you what''s on my mind," suggested Shui Xian.

    Raelle nodded her head in agreement and followed him inside. They ascended the stairs and went to their bedroom. Shui Xian made Raelle sit on the loveseat beside the windows and sat down beside her. Meanwhile, his hands didn''t let her hands go.

    He pursed his lips trying toe up with the best way to share this news but there was none. So, he decided to go with what his wife really liked. Being straightforward!

    "My ex-wife is back," he told her.

    "Does she have a name?" was Raelle''s response which caught Shui Xian by surprise. He was not expecting this reaction at all.

    "She does," he answered uncertainly not knowing where this was going.

    "Then use her name from now," said Raelle. "You only have one wife right now and that''s me. I told you I don''t like sharing what belongs to me. Even if it''s my title of being your wife. So, refrain from using the same title for her even if ites with an ex before it."

    Shui Xian was stumped as he stared at her for a whole minute without blinking even once. He couldn''t seem to bring himself to do so. Suddenly, a peal ofughter bubbled out of his throat and he couldn''t hold himself back.

    "You''re definitely my wife whose focus is always on something unexpected," he said through hisughter.

    "Well, that''s because her return has nothing to do with you or me," she said.

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "You''re right. Whether Tang Hebees back or not has nothing to do with me." He took a pause and added, "But what I want to tell you is more than that. She brought back a child with her."

    "So? It isn''t yours," stated Raelle. "Why are you caring about it?"

    Shui Xian looked her in the eyes, "Wife, how do you know it''s not mine?"

    "Because if that child was yours, you wouldn''t be looking so casual about it," replied Raelle. "I don''t think my husband is an irresponsible person. And I certainly know that if that child was yours, you''d have known. We are acting in a soap opera where the ex-wifees back after years with the ML''s child."

    Shui Xian chuckled at her words, "Oh, when did my wife learn about how soap operas work?" While he wasughing, his heart was thudding against his chest. Was it alright for him to feel so overwhelmed by just the fact that she had so much faith in him? Wasn''t it a little scary? Just because she trusted him to be a responsible person, she didn''t even have to confirm whether the child was his or not.

    "I don''t think was what you really wanted to tell me though," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian shook his head helplessly and epted the fact that he couldn''t hide from her. He just couldn''t do so. "Thank you for having so much trust in me! It''s making me feel a bit pressured because I don''t want to fail you. But I still love it." He sighed and added, "As for why I''m sharing it, it''s only because I know you don''t like surprises. It''s better for you to know it now."

    He was quiet for a minute before he continued, "There are certain things about my first marriage that you don''t know about. In fact, you know almost nothing about it. And I know you aren''t interested either. But I want you to hear me out." Raelle chose to close her mouth when she heard that and let him continue. "My mom had never liked me hanging around with Tang Hebe. Maybe it was because the Tang family had a feud with the Shui family. I''m not sure but my mom really didn''t like it when I became friends with Tang Hebe. However, she never really stopped me from hanging with her either. So, I thought she was okay with it. Butter I found out, she was okay with a friendship but she was not okay with me having any other rtionship with Tang Hebe.

    I was in high school when I told her that I like Tang Hebe and I have asked her out as well. That was the first time my mom ever lost her temper with me and we had a fight. A very fierce fight at that too. She said some things and I said some things, it was not a pretty sight. Later, we started having a cold war."

    Raelle patted his hand and he gave her a small smile that looked strained.

    "Our cold war continued for a whole year," he told her. "But in the meantime, I did not break up with Tang Hebe which really strained my rtionship with my mother to a freezing point. I didn''t understand her stubbornness. She said I could marry even a dog but I could not choose someone from the Tang family. I didn''t understand what she meant back then and I still don''t understand it."

    His body trembled a little as he added, "What I do understand is that, that rainy night I again had an argument with my mom that I was gonna marry Tang Hebe. She was so mad that she drove out and never came back." His eyes were stinging with tears but he willed himself to not cry right now. "I''m not really a good person, Raelle. I can''t deny the fact that my stubbornness killed my mother. The worst part of it is that my B¨¤ never med me for it. He didn''t even intervene when I still chose to marry Tang Hebe, knowing well enough how much my dead mother hated her."

    "But you didn''t kill your mother," was Raelle''s response.

    "No, but I became the reason."

    Raelle shook her head, "If I really ept those words, I''d also have to ept that I was the reason my parents got a divorce and I refuse to ept it."

 Chapter 535 - Give Up On You

    First, Shui Xian was stunned by her words and then he looked helpless, "It''s not the same thing, wife."

    "But it is actually the same thing," was her response. "Everything has cause and effect in life. You can''t change that. No matter how we have advanced in technology, it can''t change the fact that death is inevitable. And the most uncertain thing about death is that we never know how or where it''ll catch up to us. Maybe you were the fuse your mother drove out that day but how does that confirm that you''re the reason for her death?"

    "How are you always so rational?" he asked. "But not everyone can ept what you just said."

    "That''s because human loves to find someone to me for what they are going through," she replied. "It''s in human nature. Even if that someone is their own self, they''d still choose to find someone to vent on. Perhaps it''s because even after knowing that death is inevitable, we still look for reasons behind it. We never bother thinking that maybe the dead had reached the end of his journey." She took a brief pause to add, "You''ve been doing the same as well. You''ve been living in guilt for years thinking you killed her. But B¨¤ is also living in this guilt because it was his business rivals who messed with your mom''s car. Now, how about you tell me whose guilt is right in ce?"

    Shui Xian put her hands on his face as he said, "But darling, it isn''t just about that. My guilt is bigger than that. Myst memory of her is telling me, ''Xian, I just want you to be happy.'' But what I told her was, ''Bebe is my happiness.''" He snorted at that, "I hate the fact that I fought with my mother for her, and yet I couldn''t prove to my mother that Tang Hebe was the right choice."

    "What you fought for was your love," she told him. "Maybe what you wanted to prove to your mother was not that Tang Hebe was the right one for you. You wanted to prove to her that your love was right. I won''t say you were young back then because no matter what you made your own choices and that''s the thing, even if that love failed you, you made that choice and what I like about you is that you never regretted it."

    Shui Xian was left staring into her eyes. He was always fascinated by her words and how she managed to understand him so well. It was true that his biggest guilt was the fact that he never regretted falling in love with Tang Hebe. He never called her the wrong person. Even after all the pain, he couldn''t bring himself to feel regret for marrying her. But he did feel bad whenever he thought about how he failed his mother. If anything, he wanted to make hisst words to his mothere true.

    However, it wasn''t like that anymore. Tang Hebe was never his happiness. No, he should say he finally understood that a person should never be your happiness. Maybe they can be your door to happiness like Raelle was. Shui Xian didn''t know how she always did it but even without trying, she always taught him how to love, not just her, but also himself. Ironically, she was said to not even know what love actually was.

    Lately, Shui Xian had been questioning that statement. It wasn''t that Raelle didn''t have love or any other feelings. No, he''d like to disagree with that. She did have feelings. But her feelings were just like her intelligence, hard toprehend. Normal people like him couldn''t possibly understand her feelings.

    Raelle caressed his face like he usually did with her and added, "They say love alwayses with its own trials and tribtions. And there is no right or wrong in love."

    "As I said once before, for someone who doesn''t know what love is, you sure have a lot to say about it," Shui Xian gave a small smile.

    "Xian," she called out his name seriously.

    Shui Xian raised his brows at her.

    "What I want you to understand is that your failed marriage is not the proof of the fact that your mother was right all along. I don''t know why she insisted on not epting Tang Hebe. What I know is that even she didn''t know whether your rtionship would work with her or not. She was solely making decisions following her personal feelings. It had nothing to do with you or Tang Hebe."

    It was so simple to understand. Yes, indeed, his mother wasn''t a fortune teller, she couldn''t possibly know that his rtionship would fail. She really just followed her personal feelings. Howe he always found everything soplicated? But when it came to his wife, everything was always so simple and in.

    Maybe he was the dumb one. No, he''d like to believe that his wife was more intelligent rather than saying that he was dumb. He was just a normal man. She on the other hand was not so normal. She was... Special. Yes, as Yanyan always said, Raelle was always special. Always!

    Shui Xian took a deep breath feeling like some huge boulder was lifted off of his chest and he felt liberated. He put his head on herp and closed his eyes, "I''m so happy to have you in my life."

    "You should be," was Raelle''s reply. "It''s not like you''d find another one like me."

    Shui Xian chuckled, "Good thing, I''m not looking for a second you."

    "Why? One is already too much for you?"

    Shui Xian honestly nodded, he pinched her nose and said, "Yes, one is already too much for me. For my heart! You keep attacking my heart in unexpected ways and my heart gets overwhelmed. My heart might give up on me at this rate."

    Raelle patted his head, "No worries, at least I won''t give up on you."

    Shui Xian was left startled by her words, not even knowing how to respond to it.

 Chapter 536 - Misunderstood

    At Song Family house, the guests were still mingling around with the voices of chattering andughter floating around. Surprisingly, hardly anyone noticed that Song Xin''ai''s own children were not around. They had been sitting in a far corner trying to avoid the hustle and bustle.

    Seeing how Xiang Wai yawned for the third time in the past ten minutes, Xiang Weimin asked, "Tired?"

    "Ge, you''re the one who is more tired right now," Xiang Wai pointed out. "And you''re still a patient. There is no need to act like a superhero. You''re supposed to rest on your bed right now after taking your meds. But we are stuck here." She frowned deep in thought and stood up, "Give me a minute. We''re gonna get out of here."

    Xiang Weimin couldn''t even say anything to dissuade her when she ran off to get the job done already. She found their mother standing with several madams of schrly families and only greeted them with a polite smile before telling her mother in a straightforward way, "Ge is taking me back home now."

    Song Xin''ai didn''t react to it but their First Aunt couldn''t help saying, "How can that be? All the guests are still here. Besides, you and Weimin had been just sitting in the corner. It''s rude enough that you didn''t want to greet anyone, now you don''t want to even stay until the end?"

    "The guests aren''t mine," was Xiang Wai''s response. But she knew she was being rude and in the end, didn''t really want to ruin her mother''s day. So, she added, "I had gotten into an ident on myst mission. The injury hasn''t recovered yet. I''m not allowed to move around much. And Ge was apanying me so that I don''t feel lonely."

    "Oh, sweetie, how are you now?" asked one of the madams.

    Xiang Wai smiled good-naturedly at that kind woman who sounded sincere and replied, "Thank you for asking, I''m doing well now. Just can''t walk much for now."

    "Then you should hurry home and rest," suggested another woman.

    Xiang Wai nodded at her mother as a form of goodbye but unexpectedly, Song Xin''ai said, "I''ll walk you both out." Xiang Wai opened her mouth to say something but closed it when Song Xin''ai had already started striding in the direction of Xiang Weimin.

    Reaching Xiang Weimin, Xiang Wai helped him up while Song Xin''ai asked, "How are you now, Weimin?"

    Xiang Weimin nced at his mother and nodded, "I''m doing better."

    Song Xin''ai nodded her head and added, "Rest well. And get well soon."

    Xiang Weimin didn''t reply to that and Song Xin''ai wasn''t really expecting an answer from him either. She knew her son barely said a couple of sentences of her. It had always been like that. No, once upon a time, it was worse when he wasn''t even willing to say a word to her.

    As Xiang Wai took her brother out, Song Xin''ai walked behind them. Just a couple of steps away from them. She looked at their tall and strong backs realizing how her children were grown-ups. They were strong enough to take on a storm. No, they had always been stronger than most children in her Song family. She believed this aspect of their theirs was all due to the blood of the Xiang family in their veins.

    She smiled as she saw Xiang Wai helping Xiang Weimin inside the car. She watched the whole process in silence. She was actually envious of the rtionship these two shared. Clearly, it was Xiang Weimin who was injured but Xiang Wai didn''t even hesitate before calling herself the injured one. All because she never wanted anyone to see her brother''s weakness.

    On the other hand, Xiang Weimin hated these parties and yet he came. She knew he didn''te for her. She wasn''t narcissistic enough to believe that he came for her. Neither was she delusional. Her son only came because his sister asked him to do so. And this brother was even willing to offer his life for his precious sister.

    Xiang Weimin had a strong presence in Xiang Wai''s life and Song Xin''ai knew that too. But Xiang Wai''s presence in Xiang Weimin''s life couldn''t be denied either.

    As Xiang Wai fastened the seatbelt, she heard the knocking at the windowpane. She rolled it down and looked at Song Xin''ai who offered a bottle to her and said, "Massage your brother''s legs with this. It''ll shorten the time of recovery."

    Xiang Wai wasn''t an idiot who would throw away anything that came from her mother''s hands. Mind you, Song Xin''ai was a renowned researcher for a reason. So what if she barely had a standing in the Song family? She was already on a pinnacle of her own in the world of biochemistry and medicine!

    "I will, thank you," was Xiang Wai''s response. And this had to be the sincerest words she had spoken to her mother tonight. No, Song Xin''ai couldn''t even remember thest time she had heard such sincere wordsing from her daughter.

    So, in return, she smiled at her and Xiang Weimin before saying, "No, thank you both foring!"

    Xiang Wai didn''t know how to react to her mother''s sincere words and cleared her throat saying, "You should get back to your guests. We''re leaving now."

    Song Xin''ai nodded and stepped back. However, she didn''t leave just yet. She just stood there as she saw their car driving out of there. Even when Xiang Wai looked in the rearview mirror, she found her figure standing there, alone.

    She could only shake her head, not knowing how else to react. Neither did she know nor did Xiang Weimin. They both had moreplicated feelings towards this mother of theirs. Sometimes, it couldn''t be denied that she loved them a lot. But it was a pity that her love was often misunderstood. And they both were guilty of this misunderstanding.

    It didn''t mean they loved her, but they neither hated her.. As it was said, their feelings were justplicated.

 Chapter 537 - Demons Of The Past

    Song Xin''ai still didn''t go back to the party. It was said to be a birthday party for her but the truth wasn''t like that. If she hadn''t made a breakthrough in her research and got nominated for a world-renowned award, this would not be happening right now.

    Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai were right, she never had birthday parties. At least not in this family. Thest time she had celebrated her birthday would be a year before she and Xiang Hulin got the divorce. The difference would be that that party was solely for her and she was also happy. It seemed like such a long time ago.

    Sighing to herself she joined the party again. There was another reason for her reluctance to go back to the party. Everyone''s discussion revolved around how amazing their children are and how much they have achieved at a young age. And then the long string of ttery would follow. But in all of this, she''d stay quiet.

    Not because she had nothing to brag about. Mind you, her Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin had always been outstanding. But she didn''t want to brag about their achievements before anyone. Why would she? She knew it perfectly well how those two risked their life on every mission for their country. What was there to brag about? Certainly, she could brag for a minute but would it ever justify what risks they had to go through or how dangerous their situations had been during the mission?

    Let''s not talk about the past, didn''t Xiang Weimin almost lose his life on his most recent mission of his? She did not think her son knocked on the door of death just so she could brag about it with friends. And he neither did it to make her nor his father proud. No, he did it all for himself and his country.

    As for why Xiang Weimin had such strong feelings for his country, it had to be because of Grandfather Xiang. He was the eldest grandson of the Xiang family, Grandfather Xiang doted on him. Even before Xiang Weimin understood anything, Grandfather Xiang would tell him stories of the heroes their Xiang family had produced. And as Xiang Weimin grew up, his yearning to know more about legends increased.

    So even if Xiang Weimin hadn''t seen his grandfather in years, the seed had been nted when he was young. Patriotism had long taken root in his bones. That''s why when he announced he was joining the air force, no one was really surprised. It was like all was expected.

    It might havee as a surprise to most when Xiang Wai said she wanted to join the military. She knew it came as a surprise to her for sure. She knew how much Xiang Wai loved ballet but then again, Xiang Wai also loved to fight. She spent so much time with her brother that she got influenced as well.

    Song Xin''ai''s mind had long wandered off and she didn''t pay attention to anything or anyone for the rest of the party. Mrs. Gu found Song Xin''ai before leaving to meet her and said, "I should leave now." She took a pause and added, "By the way, your daughter... She reminds me of Chenyan."

    Song Xin''ai narrowed her eyes and thought about it for a minute before saying, "Originally I wasn''t gonna tell you this but... I think you should know that Mu Chenyan is back in the country. No, I should be specific and tell you that she is in the same city."

    Mrs. Gu was startled when she heard that stared at Song Xin''ai for a moment longer, "You''re not scaring me, right?"

    "I have no reason to do so," was Song Xin''ai''s reply. "You can''t always run from your past. Sometimes you have to atone for the sins you have done."

    Mrs. Gu bit her lip and suddenly smile weirdly, "Right. I''m old now. I should learn to face my mistakes now."

    "Mu Chenyan and I had never been close. After all, our personalities didn''t match at all. However, even if she was a pain your ass, I''d still say she had always been a good person. Too good sometimes. Actually, she often came off as a fool." Song Xian''ai shook her head as she recalled the Mu Chenyan in her memory. "Do you think she didn''t know what you did back then?" Mrs. Gu was startled when she heard it. "The only reason she chose to withdraw from the medical school was that she didn''t want to confront you."

    Mrs. Gu felt like something got stuck in her throat and it was bing even more difficult to breathe now. All these years, she thought Mu Chenyan didn''t know anything but now that she heard that Mu Chenyan always knew everything but still chose to stay silent. It left a bitter taste in her mouth. One that was hard for her to swallow.

    "Maybe I should face the truths now," said Mrs. Gu after a while. "I can''t always run from it and hiding from it didn''t really help in all these years." She smiled bitterly, "I built my lifetime of happiness by trampling on someone''s sincerity."

    "Then I wish you''re able to muster up enough courage to confront the demons of your past," stated Song Xin''ai.

    "But what about you?" asked Mrs. Gu. Song Xin''ai was frowning in confusion when Mrs. Gu added, "When are you gonna confront the demons of your past?" Song Xin''ai was stumped for words. "The biggest demon in your heart had always been that daughter you gave up on. Don''t you think it''s time to confront it now?" She paused and added, "Or perhaps, that daughter doesn''t even know you exist."

    "She does," answered Song Xin''ai. "She knows about me. Mu Chenyan raised her and that woman would never hide anything.. Maybe it''s a good trait that she doesn''t hide things but it''s a bad one too because she often forgets what to say or not to say."

 Chapter 538 - Saving Face

    Mrs. Gu took a moment before asking, "She really raised your daughter?"

    Song Xin''ai nodded her head. "She did. I believe that''s all she had done in the past two decades. Raising a daughter that wasn''t even her own."

    "What about marriage?" asked Mrs. Gu.

    Song Xin''ai rolled her eyes, "I told you back then and I''ll tell you again, marriage had never been in Mu Chenyan''s life n. She never even thought about it. I still remember when my mother-inw had asked her about marriage, she had said, ''Who said marriage is the life goal? My goal is freedom!''" Song Xin''ai smiled a little before adding, "But Hulin used to say that she ran from rtionships only because she never wanted someone else to be in control of her and her life. When you love someone, you''re giving that person control of yourself. You be vulnerable and Mu Chenyan never wanted to be vulnerable before anyone."

    What Song Xin''ai didn''t know was that fate had yed Mu Chenyan well. The woman who didn''t want to make a person her life goal actually ended up falling so deep that even now it was impossible for her to pull herself out. And that person was no one else but Raelle. Yes, marriage was still not in her life goals. But now she had a person she wanted to live for and improve herself. She was not only vulnerable before Raelle but also helpless. That''s just how fate loved to y with people.

    "She must have been lonely,"mented Mrs. Gu.

    "Who knows?" was the only reply she received from Song Xin''ai.

    Mrs. Gu left with aplicated feeling. She didn''t know how to react to the news that Mu Chenyan was back. It was such a bizarre coincidence that Mrs. Gu had been ssmates with Mu Chenyan since middle school. They even went to the same medical school. It wasn''t because they were friends. Far from it. They were just ssmates who knew each other''s names. Or maybe Mu Chenyan didn''t even know Mrs. Gu''s name.

    It was always Mrs. Gu whose eyes would follow Mu Chenyan everywhere. But she couldn''t be med for that, Mu Chenyan was always the center of attention wherever she went. She was bright, lively, wild, funny, strong, and so much more. There was nothing that Mu Chenyan couldn''t do. Talk about ying basketball with boys, or ying cello with the girls, she''d do it all. Talk about getting into fights with random street thugs, or topping every exam, she was the best at both.

    She was the person who made people envious. Oh, she sure made people jealous but none could do anything about it. After all, none could reach her level. Maybe Mrs. Gu also aspired to be like Mu Chenyan one day and get out of her introverted personality. Who knew when the idea of bing like Mu Chenyan morphed into taking Mu Chenyan''s position?

    "Little sister-inw, Mother is calling you."

    Song Xin''ai looked at her second sister-inw and seeing her smug look, she was feeling tired. She already knew where this was gonna go. Taking a deep breath, she entered the inner courtyard and went to her parents'' living quarters. Apparently, no one had gone to sleep just yet. They were all waiting for her.

    "Xin''ai didn''t your father tell you that Weimin would be getting married to Jiaojiao?" asked Grandmother Song. "How can your son humiliate her like that? It''s his fortune that Jiaojiao''s family is even choosing your son. How can you not be thankful?"

    Song Xin''ai didn''t know how to deal with these stubborn people. Sometimes she wondered if she had really failed herself by choosing all these people over her own happiness? Maybe she did fail herself and everyone else to whom she actually mattered.

    "I didn''t even raise him," reminded Song Xin''ai. "Who said I''d be allowed to make decisions for his marriage? Maybe his father can do it but I doubt it. You heard it, second sister-inw, Weimin has a boyfriend and since Hulin hasn''t done anything about it, it means Weimin is allowed to make his own life decisions."

    "Impudent!" Grandfather Song mmed his hand on the table startling everyone. But this time Song Xin''ai wasn''t scared. Not even a little. "Where will our Song family put our face?"

    Song Xin''ai shrugged, "Saving the Song family''s face isn''t his responsibility. All of you have always made it clear to my kids that they are from the Xiang family." She looked at the younger generation of the Song family and sneered, "And why does it only have to my kids? If you want to save face, you should care more about your granddaughter who got pregnant before marriage and doesn''t even know who the father is. All my son did is get a boyfriend. I don''t see anything wrong with that." Everyone was left stunned speechless by what Song Xin''ai said. She rarely talked back to anyone in the family. So rarely that they often forgot how much worse she could get with her words.

    "Now, if you''ll excuse me, I have better things to do," said Song Xin''ai and gave her parents a small bow before leaving. No-one stopped her. Not they didn''t want to stop her to berate but anyone in their right mind would know to not mess with Song Xin''ai right now.

    Song Xin''ai went to the ce where all the gifts were kept. She looked through the pile of gifts and found the ones she was looking for at the very bottom. She smiled when she saw the gift boxes that came from Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai. She took only these two and left the Song family house. Yes, she didn''t live here. She''d have long gone crazy if she did.

    No, she was already crazy. It couldn''t get any worse. But she''d have really murdered someone if she had stayed there.. She drove her car back to her penthouse where she lived alone.

 Chapter 539 - Pandora Box

    The first thing Song Xin''ai did aftering back to the penthouse was to get out of the dress she wore. After freshening up, she sat down in the living room and turned on the tv. But it seemed like the tv was just there to fill the void that silence had created.

    She went to get a bottle of wine and opened it for herself. Pouring herself a ss, she picked up the gifts she received from Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin. She tore it open and paused as she looked at the exquisitely designed jewelry inside. She suddenly chuckled when she looked at these gifts that were clearly bought from the same ce.

    Just one look and Song Xin''ai knew that these gifts were bought by her dear daughter, Xiang Wai. And she also knew that Xiang Wai picked these gifts very casually. So casually that she must have looked for the best shop and chosen the artisan''s most expensive piece. Because Xiang Wai''s aesthetics had gone downhill in thest years. To her, anything expensive would be good.

    However, even if these gifts were chosen casually, she loved them. Even if she hated jewelry, she still loved these two pieces that came from his children.

    *Ring*

    Song Xin''ai picked up the phone and before she could say anything, the person on the other side spoke up, "Wishing you a happy birthday."

    Song Xin''ai was silent for a while and the person on the other side didn''t say anything either after that one sentence. As if he had nothing else to say. But then again, perhaps he really didn''t.

    "Thank you," she said softly trying not to choke up and burst into tears. He didn''t say anything out of the ordinary. She had heard plenty of people wishing her a happy birthday tonight. But how many of them were really sincere? She would say none.

    "Okay, then I''m hanging up," she heard him say like he did every year.

    "Hulin!" she called out to him.

    "Hm?" Xiang Hulin stopped when she called out his name.

    "Don''t you get tired of calling me every year just to wish me a happy birthday?" she asked.

    "And why shouldn''t I be wishing the mother of my children on her birthday? Is it wrong?" he asked in return.

    "We have been divorced for far too long," she reminded him.

    "I know that," he replied. "I can''t possibly forget this. Never." He took a pause and added, "But just because you''re not my wife anymore doesn''t mean you''re my enemy. Besides, the fact that you are my children''s mother can''t be denied."

    "I''m not even a good mother," she sighed.

    "You should stop drinking," was his response.

    Song Xin''ai smiled bitterly to herself. As always, he''d neverment on what kind of a mother she was. And as always, he even knew she was getting drunk now. After drinking at the party, she came to open a bottle of strong wine. It wasn''t surprising that she was getting delirious.

    "Wai and Weimin came to the party," she told him.

    "I know," was his response.

    "Right. They''d share things with you. Why am I not surprised?"

    Xiang Hulin pursed his lips and didn''t say anything. He didn''t want toment. Mostly because she was drunk. Even if her brain could work better than a sober person, that did not change the fact that she was drunk.

    Song Xin''ai chewed on the inside of her cheek and hesitated for a long while before questioning, "Have you... I mean..." she licked her lips and asked, "Have you met your father?"

    "I''m hanging up Xin''ai," was his response. "You should stop drinking and go to sleep."

    He didn''t even wait for her reply before he really hung up the call. Song Xin''ai was left staring at her phone screen. She obviously wasn''t surprised that he hung up like that on her. In reality, both of them knew that Song Xin''ai didn''t want to know whether he met his father or not, she wanted to know if he met Raelle or not.

    But Raelle was the topic that was really the breaking point for them. They could exist in peace and harmony together but once Raelle was mentioned, it''d be like opening a pandora box. One that would only reopen the wounds and hurt you like hell!

    Song Xin''ai ced her feet on the coffee table as she sunk into the sofa and closed her eyes. The tv was still ying in the living room. But she had her eyes closed as if she was sleeping.

    Song Xin''ai never called herself a good person. But the thing was that no one ever told her that either just for the sake of it. She was always told she wasn''t a good daughter, then she wasn''t a good sister, she couldn''t even be a good wife or a good mother. Maybe she was a good friend but she couldn''t confirm that either. Her only friend had left the world a little early.

    She suddenly opened her eyes and held the remote of the tv. She was watching animal but decided to just see some news before going to bed. As she changed the channels, she suddenly stopped at the entertainment news channel because the news report was too eye-catching.

    [Shui Xian and Raelle Xiang confirmed on the red carpet that they are dating!]

    Song Xin''ai didn''t hear what the news reporter was saying. Her eyes were too focused on the woman in that photo on the screen. Dressed in ck, she looked ethereal and a bit distant from the world. As if everyone was just her background. The way her chin was raised showed how she had innate arrogance that couldn''t be denied.

    She kept staring at the screen even when the news report had changed. Her eyes were unfocused though as if she was lost in thought. "Raelle Xiang..." the name rolled off of her tongue leaving an astringent taste. "Raelle... Yenay...."

 Chapter 540 - Germs

    "Oh, Coco is here," said Shui Xian and rushed off to that cuddly dog he liked so much. By now, even Lin Zhen was not as bitter about how his dog had be so close to Shui Xian. It''s not like he could do anything about it so he just chose to make peace with it.

    But it wasn''t actually that easy to do so. After all, his Coco was like his baby. Seeing your child running off into the arms of another man! Oh! The rush of anger that he felt because of this thought but had to swallow down his anger. He just sighed and distanced himself from them.

    His morning walks had be like this from the time Coco and Shui Xian found each other. But he was d that he only went out for morning walks three to four days a week.

    Seeing Raelle, Lin Zhen stepped closer to her. She looked at him and blinked. Seeing how her eyes were set on him, Lin Zhen felt a pressure that couldn''t be ignored. He never thought one day he''d be sweating under the gaze of a woman even younger than him! But this young woman was not to be trifled with. Even his subconscious mind was clear about how dangerous she could be.

    "I read the research that dog people like to prefer sleeping with their dogs rather than their partners. Is that true?" asked Raelle in her nk voice.

    "Huh?" Lin Zhen was dumbfounded. Not just by the question itself but also because of the thought that Raelle Xiang had taken the initiative to talk to him. Even though her question was bizarre.

    "Considering you are a dog person, do you like to sleep with your dog or your partner?"

    Lin Zhen cleared his throat and said, "I don''t have a partner."

    "There is no need to act like a Virgin Mary with me," was Raelle''s retort. "Yes, you''re not currently dating but that does not mean you didn''t before."

    Lin Zhen opened his mouth and closed it. Then he took a deep breath and opened his mouth again to say, "I''d rather hug my partner to sleep when she is around."

    "You mean he," corrected Raelle.

    Lin Zhen''s eyes widened when he heard that. He did not think she''d actually point that out.

    "Oh, wait! That''s not correct," added Raelle. "You''re bi. So it could be she as well."

    Lin Zhen felt so exposed before that he kept staring at her in disbelief.

    "You don''t have to look at me like I intruded on your privacy," said Raelle. "Who told you to be Hyson''s bandmate? I can''t possibly let Hyson stay with just anyone. He is my younger brother. It''s my responsibility to make sure that he is surrounded by the right people."

    Lin Zhen suddenlyughed out, "So, Fai was right. He does have a protective best friend." He shook his head at the thought. It couldn''t be helped. Hyson had told them plenty of times about how his best friend was a little too protective of people around her.

    "Coming back to my question," said Raelle. "So, you don''t like to sleep with your dog? Should I sue the person who wrote the research paper?"

    Lin Zhen was startled and hurriedly told her, "There is no need to do that. On normal days, I do love to sleep with Coco. It''s cuddly and huggable. In fact, I also agree that dog people do prefer their dogs over their partners on different asions. Because dogs are like serotonin boosters. They always make you feel better."

    Raelle nodded her head in understanding. It seemed the research paper wasn''t just all bullshit. It had some truth to it. But of course, that had nothing to do with her since she wasn''t a dog person. Then she looked at her husband who was ying with that dog happily and tapped her chin. Does he prefer that dog over me?

    "You don''t like dogs?" questioned Lin Zhen. He didn''t know how he got so bold to ask questions to Raelle Xiang like this. Maybe it was because she seemed to know his biggest secret and he felt close to her than before.

    "I only like the fact that they are loyal," answered Raelle. After all, she had always valued loyalty the most.

    "Well, dogs sure are loyal," agreed Lin Zhen.

    Raelle stayed silent after that and didn''tment on it. She was looking at the sunrise as she thought of something and said, "By the way, where did you get this dog of yours?"

    Lin Zhen stared at Coco and smiled, "Coco is with me for like ten years now. When I first held her in my hand, she was just a tiny baby." His smile widened at the thought. "Actually it was Huang Shuyi who gave me Coco. I don''t know where he got Coco from but one day, he brought her with him to the training room. He said he was gonna look for afortable home for Coco. I instantly fell in love with her and adopted her." He suddenly thought of something and added, "By the way, I forgot to congratte you."

    "For?"

    "You announced your rtionship with Mr. Shui," said Lin Zhen. "Yes, you didn''t announce the marriage but it''s getting there. I think all the celebrities must be cursing you both for taking all their heat even though none of you is in the entertainment circle."

    "That only proves that one should be capable enough to the point that just your name would be enough to stir up a storm," was Raelle''s reply that made Lin Zhenugh out loud. She just called out those stars for not even having as much poprity as her who had always been just a mystery. Well, it seemed Raelle Xiang wasn''t all that scary after all.

    "Wife, let''s go now," came Shui Xian''s voice before he appeared himself right beside her. As he wanted to hold her hand, she pulled it back.

    "Germs," that was all she said and Shui Xian had to put his hand down, acting like a pitiful puppy.. But both of them knew it was just his trick that was obviously not gonna work.

 Chapter 541 - Puppy

    Just a minute ago, Lin Zhen saw Shui Xian ying with a dog. His dog to be precise. But now, standing beside Raelle, Shui Xian looked like a big dog himself. Lin Zhen had to shake off this thought that suddenly popped up in his mind but it seemed to not help at all.

    In his head, Shui Xian had a tail behind him that seemed to start wagging in excitement as soon as his eyes set on Raelle. Oh, he couldn''t unsee those puppy eyes. What the hell! That was his big boss! He had huge respect for Shui Xian. Not that it changed now but certainly, the image of mighty Master Xian had long crumbled.

    However, the image of President Raelle Xiang was hard to shake. But calling her hard to approach was wrong. She seemed simpler than most people he came across. In the entertainment industry, it was rare to find people like Hyson who were honest and sincere. Now, he was certain why Hyson was best friends with Raelle. They both were actually simpler than most people.

    "See you around, Lin Zhen," said Raelle as she walked in front while Shui Xian had to keep his distance since he had germs on him.

    "Bye, President Raelle!" Lin Zhen called out from behind. "Bye-bye, Master Xian!"

    Seeing them walking away, Lin Zhen couldn''t move his eyes away. It was insane how Shui Xian seemed to be the clingy type who wanted attention just like Coco always came to him for attention and love and cuddles and even some pats. Lin Zhen knocked on his head. "You should really stop it now brain." Lin Zhen warned himself to stop thinking about Shui Xian as a cute puppy.

    That was a horrible image!

    "Darling, where are we going today?" asked Shui Xian, still trying to grab his wife''s attention.

    "I''ll take you out," was the only response Raelle gave him.

    "Where?"

    "You''ll know when we get there," she replied.

    "Then you''re taking me out on a date?" he questioned.

    "You can call it that if you want to," she said nkly. "No, wait! It is a date." She turned to face him and added, "So, Mr. Husband, I''m asking you out on a date. Would you like to go out with me?"

    "I''ll even go to hell with you," was Shui Xian''s answer. He was more than ready to follow her anywhere. He didn''t know how those big bosses in tv series always had plenty of time on hand to woo their girls? How did they even manage to find that much free time?

    Whether it was him or Raelle, they both only had time over the weekend to go out together. On weekdays, they just couldn''t make as much time as he would have liked. But unless he wanted to go bankrupt, he really couldn''t act carelessly and run from his responsibilities. Although he believed Raelle was his biggest responsibility, his wife didn''t think so.

    "You can''t follow me to hell," said Raelle making Shui Xian raise his brow at her. "Hell can''t handle a cutie like me."

    Shui Xian was gaping at her with wide eyes and burst outughing so hard that his body convulsed. It couldn''t be helped. She just called herself a cutie! Who would believe that? This was the woman who didn''t think there was anything cute about her even though he found her the cutest but it seemed just because he believed her to be the cutest one, she started believing it.

    He suddenly didn''t know how to react to this information. He so wanted to hug her but she won''t let him, he knew it. He sighed, "My cutie is certainly too cute for hell to handle." He took a pause and added, "But there is another reason why hell won''t take you in."

    "Oh, why?"

    "The devil might get a heart attack just listening to your thoughts and views," he stated in all honesty.

    "That''s true," she didn''t deny his words. "A devil can''t hold his ground before me."

    Shui Xian chuckled as he entered the house behind her.

    "What''s so funny?"

    Shui Xian was startled to hear that voice. He looked up to find Mu Chenyan standing there with her eyes narrowed. Shui Xian took a step back and hid behind Raelle. After all, Mu Chenyan was actually holding a scissor in her hand right now. He wasn''t a fool to put himself in front of her to take a shot at.

    And he didn''t even for a second think that Mu Chenyan wouldn''t hurt him. Because he was certain that woman was very capable of doing that. Better to be safe than sorry, no?

    "My wife is funny," said Shui Xian, still standing behind Raelle.

    "Do I look like I''m gonna bite you?" questioned Mu Chenyan with her brows quirked up in amusement. Did she have such a bad image? Well, there was no doubt that she had a horrible reputation back in the days but she certainly was known as quite civilized now? Wasn''t she?

    "No," replied Shui Xian. "I know you won''t bite me. But you might stab me."

    Mu Chenyan''s lips curled up in a crooked smile. She walked closer to him and patted his shoulder. Leaning close to him, she whispered, "You aren''t wrong about that, dear son-inw."

    Shui Xian gulped and held Raelle''s sleeve.

    Raelle looked at their interaction in silence and only now spoke up, "Yanyan, stop scaring him."

    Mu Chenyan gave a doting nce to her dearest Elle and said, "Elle, do you think Master Xian is actually that easily scared? From what I know, you aren''t really a scaredy-cat, Mister!"

    "But he can''t hurt you," said Raelle. "Because you''re family. And that part alone is enough to make him scared."

    Mu Chenyan paused for a minute before she shook her head and said to Shui Xian, "Lucky bastard!"

    Shui Xian stuck out his tongue at her like a kid, "Thank you for thepliment!"

    It had to be said that Shui Xian was really looking for a beating by annoying Mu Chenyan. However, he couldn''t help it now that his wife stood on his side. He knew Mu Chenyan would never move against him as long as Raelle stood with him. And Raelle was right, he couldn''t do anything to Mu Chenyan as well because of Raelle.

    He knew he wasn''t a match for Mu Chenyan but he also knew, he would be able to do some damage if it got to that point.

 Chapter 542 - Stuck!

    "Why are you holding a scissor though?" asked Shui Xian. "nning a murder?"

    Mu Chenyan gave him a lopsided grin, "Oh, my innocent son-inw, I never needed a weapon to murder someone. My hands are enough to do a better job."

    "Violent,"mented Shui Xian.

    "Just because I called you innocent doesn''t mean you are one," Mu Chenyan appointed out. "You and I both know what you have done in the past few years." She took a dramatic pause to add, "There is nothing innocent about that."

    Shui Xian still kept his innocent but charming smile on. What he was, of course, he knew. He knew it all too well. But as he said the other night, everyone had a skeleton in their closet. Hidden. He was no different.

    "Yanyan, let''s go," said Raelle. "The haircut has already been dyed for a while now."

    Mu Chenyan shrugged and followed Raelle. They went to the patio which Mu Chenyan had turned into a whole hairdresser shop. She had all the professional tools one would need. But for some reason, the woman was carrying her scissor in her hand all this while. Shui Xian was willing to bet that she did it on purpose just to scare him.

    Raelle''s pure ck hair reached below her shoulder des now. And she usually kept the length just above her shoulder des. Her hair was thick and shiny and grew very fast. Surprisingly, she usually didn''t do anything to take special care of her hair as she did with her skin. At least, her skin enjoyed her special care but her hair didn''t.

    Yet, her hair stubbornly grew fast.

    Raelle washed her hair on her own beforeing to take a seat and allowing Mu Chenyan to do her magic. What kind of a haircut she''d be getting was all up to Mu Chenyan. Raelle wouldn''t waste her time on deciding that.

    Seeing how Shui Xian was following her every move, Mu Chenyan''s scissors paused and she looked at him, "Xian, what are you up to?"

    "Nothing," he replied innocently.

    Mu Chenyan''s eyes narrowed but she didn''t say anything and continued to work attentively. However, Shui Xian still didn''t leave her side and continued to look at her work carefully.

    Mu Chenyan''s eyes shed as she thought of something and asked, "Don''t tell me you''re trying to learn how to do this?"

    "Can''t I?" he questioned.

    "Why should you?" she asked in return. "This is my job, stop trying to take everything from me! Isn''t it enough that I gave you my Elle?"

    Shui Xian shrugged, "You''re the one who chose me for her."

    "Who said that? It was all Elder Xiang!"

    "No, no, no!" Shui Xian shook his finger before her eyes. "If you said a simple no, he''d never choose me for his dearest granddaughter." He gave her a smile as he went on, "And that means, you gave the green light for me." Taking a pause, he rubbed his chin thoughtfully, "But makes me wonder, why did you choose me? Clearly, I''m not the kind of a person you''d like."

    "You''re right," said Mu Chenyan. "When I first saw you, I definitely didn''t like you. You''re too soft for my taste." She continued to work as she added, "But that was back when you''re in high school. After that, I saw you at an auction and I liked what I saw back then."

    She obviously wouldn''t specifically tell him that it was that determination in his amber eyes that caught her attention. She definitely didn''t like his yful personality back in the days. But knowing that even after all the setbacks, he never med anyone for his failures changed her impression of him. And that''s when she thought he wasn''t all that bad.

    If Shui Xian hadn''t grown up from his phase of being the nice guy. Mu Chenyan would have never let him enter Raelle''s life. Certainly, her Elle didn''t need a good guy in her life. But neither did Raelle need a bad one. She needed someone who was capable of being both. Good and bad ording to the situation.

    Because if Shui Xian had been a stubborn person who stubbornly followed his views and ideas, he''d have never been able to bond with Raelle whose ideas had always been out of the ordinary.

    "I''m still alive," said Mu Chenyan. "And as long as I''m alive, there are some things I won''t let you take over!" She red at Shui Xian as she added dangerously, "At the end of the day, my Elle is still mine!"

    Shui Xian smiled at herment, "I never had a doubt about that. She''ll always be yours." He took a pause and added sheepishly, "Besides, if I start learning now, it''ll take me years to even get the basics. So, don''t worry. I definitely ain''t stealing anything from you."

    "It''s good that you are self-aware," said Mu Chenyan.

    Shui Xian lowered his head and continued to smile. Of course, he was self-aware. He wasn''t omnipotent. Surely, he could learn a new skill like hairdressing but he won''t be able to pick it up as fast as someone who really had a talent for it.

    Meanwhile, Raelle didn''t even bother to add a word to their conversation. The silence was best in this situation. Because whether she spoke up for Shui Xian or Mu Chenyan, it won''t end well. They both were gonna feel sour which was actually out of her understanding. But just because she didn''t understand, she''d neverment on it.

    It was better not toment and hurt their feelings. In the end, even she knew it was all because of her. She felt like how lettuce would feel in the middle of bread slices. Stuck! Wait. That sounded weird. Something was wrong with that sentence but she didn''t dwell on it. After all, the point was made already. She was indeed stuck between two people who loved her too much.

    Raelle only looked at her reflection in the mirror and stopped her mind from wandering off.

 Chapter 543 - Escaped

    Hyson was holding a cup oftt¨¦ when he arrived at the shooting with Li Xinxin trailing behind him. He looked at her and said, "Didn''t you say you''d leave after settling me here?"

    "You''re not settled yet," was her response.

    "I feel like a kid under surveince," muttered Hyson with an adorable pout.

    "I''m not the one keeping surveince on you though," replied Li Xinxin. "However, others are."

    Hyson''s brow quirked up at her words in surprise. Of course, he was surprised to know that she could tell someone was keeping an eye on him. She must have some seriously sensitive senses. Or how else did she manage to figure it out?

    And yes, Hyson knew there were people on this set that was there just for him. And all of them were actually elite bodyguards arranged by Raelle to follow him and keep an eye on him to avoid any ident like thest time. Just because he didn''t want attention, those bodyguards were disguised asmon workers on the set doing odd jobs but jobs that allowed them to stay close to him at all times.

    "So, young master, which family do you belong to?" questioned Li Xinxin curiously. She didn''t think Hyson was a simple character from the very beginning. So calling him young master came naturally. As if it was always supposed to be that way.

    "What young master?" retorted Hyson. "I''m a simple guy. If I was a young master, why would I be here suffering?"

    Li Xinxin shrugged, "How canmoners like us understand the motives of the rich? It''s not like you won''t find young masters in the entertainment circle who just came here to y."

    "But I''m very serious," was Hyson''s reply. "And I certainly am not rich!" Now, that was not entirely true. But he always looked at Raelle and had to remind himself that he was poor. Dirt poor when he was ced beside her. Even if he had several sessful investments because of his luck, he was still poor!

    As for why he said it was all luck? Because it was exactly that! Hyson had always invested blindly and now, he had to ept that he was like the blind cat who got the prey. ALWAYS!

    When he looked at the staff busying around, he stiffened at the reminder that they were shooting the kissing scene today. Originally, it was supposed to happen yesterday but he prayed to the heavens to help him escape that, and guess what? This lucky cat got what he wanted and it started raining cats and dogs. The rain was his blessing yesterday that canceled the shoot.

    He wondered if he could get another blessing today.

    If there was someone who heard his thoughts, they would call him a lucky bastard. Because soon, Sora came over to his side and told him, "We are shooting scene no 39 today."

    Hyson recalled the scene and brightened up, "It''s not the kissing scene?"

    Sora was stunned by the bright light in his eyes that were blinking at her. For a moment, she was dazzled to the point of not even knowing what to do. She shifted her eyes away and held her hand against her chest to control her heartbeat. Did he have to attack her like this?

    "Oh, we removed that from the script," said Sora and ran away before she would lose herself around him. He was dangerous. Very dangerous!

    Hyson looked at her running away and looked at his manager, "Did I do something wrong?"

    Li Xinxin''s lips twitched at his question. If she didn''t have a boyfriend whom she loved dearly, even she''d have not been able to escape this man who didn''t even know what he did to women around him. Surely, he was like a cute brother but when you stare into his eyes, you might even be willing to sell your soul to him!

    Her thoughts were just like Sora''s, he was dangerous! Dangerous for single women''s hearts. The most dangerous thing about him was how oblivious he was to all of this.

    When Hyson didn''t hear a reply, he didn''t pay attention to it and instead asked, "Why did they remove the kiss again? Do you know?"

    "I''m not sure, do you want me to ask around?" suggested Li Xinxin. "They didn''t even inform me about the change."

    "Forget it," said Hyson. "All that matters is that I don''t have to kiss someone."

    Not even for a second did Hyson think that it was done by Raelle. Because he had asked her not to do it. And he trusted his best friend even more than he trusted himself. Although he was curious to know why there was no kiss scene anymore. He won''t dwell on it as long as it was to his advantage.

    "So, little brother, happy now?" He Rou just finished her scene and came to sit beside him.

    "Huh?" Hyson looked at her in confusion.

    "Give me some credit, I didn''t take your first kiss," He Rou winked at him. "You''re wee!"

    Hyson''s lips parted as he gazed at her, "Oh, so you did it?"

    "Of course," He Rou told him proudly. "Yesterday, after talking to you, I just thought about what you said. Since you called me your sister-inw, I felt like a scumbag for even thinking about taking your first kiss. Maybe it isn''t special to you, but I''ll tell you that I''m a sentimental person. I attach great importance to the first kiss. You should have it with someone you really love."

    Hyson was left looking at her in surprise. He did not think she''d do it for him and that too for such a reason. Did he attach such importance to his first kiss? Definitely not. But he still was thankful to her that she did it for him.

    "Sister-inw, you''re really cool!"

    "Did you just realize that?" He Rou flipped her hair acting like the queen of silver screen that she was.

 Chapter 544 - Limelight

    ~D.W Resort~

    The resort was built on the outskirts of Kia City. It was a luxury resort with natural scenery being one of its best points. The architecture was a mix of both modern and ancient. The resort provided a wide range of activities. There was a golf course, an archery ground, outdoor and indoor swimming pools. There was even an equestrian club near the resort and if one passed through the forest path lined with camphor trees, one would be able to reach the equestrian club in no time from the resort.

    Xiang Wai was dressed in a navy blue one-shoulder jumpsuit. She didn''t really have any need to style her short hair. She didn''t wear any earrings. But she did wear a tinum chain around her neck with a heart-shaped pendant hanging from it. A silver-colored watch wasying on her wrist which had tiny diamonds studded in it.

    As for shoes... Well, she did find a pair of high heels from her long-forgotten collection but she hadn''t used it for so long that it was a bit ufortable for her to walk. Of course, she won''t let it show. But it was really difficult to keep her bnce. She was baffled at how she could even bnce on a rope but couldn''t walk properly with high heels just because she hadn''t worn them in thest few years?

    She looked at the hall that her ss president, Tang Ping had told her about and walked in. Her eyes wandered around trying to look for the bride. But before she could find the bride, she was startled by the loud screaming around her. Oh, and these certainly were not scream of fear. She wondered which celebrity was making these women go crazy but soon she realized that the celebrity seemed to be... Her!

    "Xiang Wai! You came!"

    "Oh my! ss Queen is still as handsome as before."

    "What? No way! She looks even more handsome than before."

    "Yes, yes, she does."

    Xiang Wai''s lips twitched as she looked at the circle of women around her. As she looked at their faces, she could put a name on their faces instantly. Her memory wasn''t that bad that she''d forget her ssmates. But it was surprising to her that they still remembered her and seemed to have the same enthusiasm when looking at her.

    For a moment, she felt a little shy and embarrassed.

    "Wai, we''ve missed you!"

    "Yeah! You vanished right after graduation. I studied so hard to follow you to the Bai University and in the end, I didn''t find you there."

    "ss Queen, you broke so many hearts."

    "Right, you did."

    On the side, their male ssmates of hers had the same re directed at her as they did back in the day. After all, whenever she was around there was no girl who would pay them any attention. The basketball court will be filled with girls only when she was ying with the boys. It was a known fact that Xiang Wai was the most popr one at school.

    She didn''t have that many suitors as much she had her little fangirls.

    How could the boys not hate her? She always stole the limelight from them. It''s been years and she still was at the center of attention. It''s not like Xiang Wai was not used to this attention. She still had the most limelight in her squad. However, this was different.

    These women had pure affection and admiration in their eyes for her that made her feel a bit weird. She was respected and she was admired at her job as well. This still felt different.

    "Move aside, you all!" said a tall woman and came to stand before Xiang Wai with a huge smile on her face. "Pingping has been waiting for you. We all said you won''te but she was certain, you''d show up. It''s such a surprise to us."

    "ss President invited me herself," said Xiang Wai. "I couldn''t refuse her."

    "Let me take you to Pingping," said the tall woman. "Come on, everyone. Let''s get some photos with our Wai."

    "Yay!" The girl squad was certainly very excited.

    As they were about to enter the bride''s room, someone called out, "Wai!"

    Xiang Wai turned to look at the bespectacled man and her lips curled up, "Vice President, you''re here too?"

    ss vice president fixed his sses and smiled sheepishly.

    "Wai, you don''t even know that vice president is marrying our ss president?"

    Xiang Wai was so surprised to hear that. She only knew who was the bride. Why didn''t she pay attention to the wedding photoshoot outside the hall? How embarrassing that she didn''t even know who was the groom.

    "Sorry, I didn''t know," said Xiang Wai. "But congrattions! You''re really fortunate."

    "Fortunate?" repeated the bespectacled man.

    "Haven''t you been together with the ss president since high school? Now, you both are getting married after almost a decade of high school. It shows you both are really meant to be."

    The vice president grinned at her words. Oh, he certainly was getting too many envious gazes today. Who didn''t date in high school? But how many of them were still together? Those rare ones could be counted on one hand. And he was one of them.

    "Feeling proud?" asked Xiang Wai.

    Everyone teased the groom making the poor guy blush and run for his life. He couldn''t deal with these women who had gotten even more audacious after all these years.

    After he ran away, thesedies took Xiang Wai to the bride who started jumping in excitement when she saw Xiang Wai. Looking at this, Xiang Wai was actually very happy. For the first time in forever, she felt like she also had an existence. One that was hard to forget. See? At least these ssmates didn''t forget her.

    Maybe these women were chattier and noisy than Xiang Wai was used to now. But it still felt good to be with them.. They were rubbing off their energy on her and making her feel happy.

 Chapter 545 - Attention

    Xiang Wai wasn''t actually asplicated of a person as people around her believed her to be. All she ever wanted was attention. The reason why she loved her brother so much was that Xiang Weimin was willing to give her the attention she sought. The biggest reason why she was hopelessly in love with Zhai Yanjun even after all these years was that he always made her feel like she was needed in his life.

    Even if it didn''t feel like love. At least, it made her believe she was important but eventually, she was greedy for that love. It was a shame that Zhai Yanjun didn''t even know how to love.

    Perhaps that''s why Xiang Wai was feeling happy today, she was the center of attention and it felt good. She had done a lot of absurd things in her life to catch the attention of people around her. But she had forgotten that she never had to do much in school to have that attention.

    Xiang Wai was tired of the photo session with the bride and her friends but these friends were still not done. Xiang Wai couldn''t even bring herself to refuse them. She never joined any of the reunions after school finished. Now that they met after a decade, she couldn''t dampen their excitement.

    Tang Ping hugged Xiang Wai tightly and whispered, "You have no idea how happy I''m to see you here."

    "ss President, you''re making me feel a bit embarrassed here," said Xiang Wai awkwardly. "I''m not that special, I believe."

    "That''s what you think," said Tang Ping. "You have always been special to our ss."

    "Right! Remember when I first transferred someone from the seniors tried to bully me and you beat the crap out of that guy!"

    "And that bitch who thought I was hitting on her boyfriend locked me up in the bathroom. If it wasn''t for you, I''d have spent the whole night there. But you not only helped me get out but you even served that bitch the same way she did to me; by locking her in that bathroom!"

    "Whenever I''d need help with my homework, you''d always help without putting on airs."

    "I always feel honored that our ss queen tutored me in maths, my weakest subject. And look at me now, I''m a maths teacher!"

    Tang Ping smiled at Xiang Wai who was stunned hearing all this and added, "ss Queen, you really think we call you, our queen because you are the coolest or whatnot? I know you are, you always had been. But you don''t realize that you had always been more to all of us."

    Xiang Wai felt her eyes stinging. It had been a while she felt so emotional. To be very honest, she hardly remembered any of the things these women brought up. It really meant nothing to her since she was just being herself by helping them. But she didn''t realize she had such an impact on their lives.

    Now, it was easier to digest why she had these die-hard fans of her own. Xiang Wai shook her head at that thought and said, "Thank you all for being a friend to me."

    "ss Queen, what are you doing these days?" asked someone from thedies.

    "I..." Xiang Wai pursed her lips before answering, "I joined the army."

    "Huh?"

    "What?!"

    "Oh my god!"

    Xiang Wai heard so many gasps around her that she was startled a little.

    Tang Ping stared at her without blinking and asked, "Wai, really?"

    Xiang Wai nodded her head and smiled, "Major Xiang Wai, at your service!"

    Tang Ping''s eyes sparkled up. She held Xiang Wai''s hands and added, "You''re still the best! Those losers out there can''t evenpare to the nail of your finger!"

    "One of those losers is your husband," reminded a friend with a giggle.

    "So what? He is no better! He is also a loser!" added Tang Ping without any hesitations. "That nerd was huffing and puffing and almost lost half of his life when wepleted our military training in university. How can hee close to our Wai?"

    "I agree!"

    "Those men are all talk. They didn''t even serve their country!"

    Xiang Wai was amused by them and decided to step in for the guys, "Butdies, there are more than one ways to serve the country. Let''s not startparing now."

    "Still, I believe you''re the best!"

    Xiang Wai felt helpless. It seems she could now understand why those celebrities have those brain-dead fans. Those fans were just biased and liked to look at the world through tinted sses. She never thought she''d be in such a situation but it didn''t feel that bad either.

    "Let me show you to your table," that tall woman from earlier took Xiang Wai with her and kept gushing about how she was feeling so proud to know that one of her ssmates was actually in the army. It was like their whole ss''s status just upgraded because of Xiang Wai.

    Xiang Wai only listened and didn''tment. She was used to hearing people tell her how dumb of a choice it was to join the army like her father and her brother. So, it did feel a bit strange to hear so manypliments.

    "Here you go!"

    They were standing at the table right at the front. Xiang Wai was feeling honored by this and smiled to say her thanks before taking her seat. She just sat down when she heard some squealing that almost pierced her eardrums. How annoying!

    Why were the girls so loud?

    She pulled out her phone and didn''t try to find out why it was so loud around her. She did hear some vague whispers like ''celebrity'', ''famous'', and ''singer''. But she wasn''t curious enough to find out the details and continued to scroll on her phone. She had a couple of messages from her brother that she hadn''t read.. Now, that she got the time, she decided to see why he sent her texts.

 Chapter 546 - Disappointment

    Ge: [I''m going to see grandfather today.]

    Ge: [Did I mention that I''m feeling nervous?]

    Ge: [Why aren''t you replying?]

    Ge: [Your brother needs some encouragement here!]

    Xiang Wai''s lips twitched when she read these back-to-back messages. There was hardly a minute time gap between each message and he was expecting her to even reply that fast? And that showed just how nervous he was feeling.

    Another message came right at that moment.

    Ge: [I''m right outside their house. My hands are mmy. What should I do now?]

    Xiang Wai smiled at his words. How interesting it was that her brother who never even felt scared of death was actually nervous to face his own grandfather. But she couldn''t me him. They hadn''t seen their grandfather in years. They couldn''t possibly know what kind of a person he was.

    Wai: [Ge, you''re already there. Just go in now."

    Ge: [That''s some encouragement.]

    Xiang Wai could tell he was being sarcastic but it didn''t matter. That''s the only thing she could say for now.

    Someone plopped down beside her and Xiang Wai nced up for a brief moment before looking down at her screen to read Xiang Weimin''s new message.

    Ge: [Have fun at the wedding.]

    "Don''t tell me you didn''t even recognize me now?"

    Xiang Wai didn''t even move her eyes away from the screen as she replied, "I wish I could remove you from my memory, Shuyi. But it''s a shame that I can''t."

    Huang Shuyi smirked devilishly making some girls lose their senses around them as he said, "I have never been easy to forget."

    Xiang Wai snorted, "I see you''re still as much of a jerk as before."

    Huang Shuyi rolled his eyes at her and added, "You don''t get toment on me, Wai. You''re the dumbest person I''ve ever met in my life."

    Xiang Wai finally turned her attention to him and raised her brow at him, "Oh? And why is that so?"

    "You left your dreams to chase after a man''s love," said Huang Shuyi. "Doesn''t that prove that you have always been the dumb one between us?"

    Xiang Wai''s face stiffened when she heard it but she sighed out, "You''re right. I might be the foolish one. But so what? I made my choices and I don''t regret them. Do you really think I regret going to the military academy? I don''t!"

    Huang Shuyi tilted his head slightly and shook his head, "You''re still the same. Never had regrets and never will, eh?"

    "My papa used to say that regret isn''t in our veins. Wee from the line of generals who fought all their lives but never had any regret in their life," said Xiang Wai proudly. "Being a soldier is in my blood. One way or another, I was meant to walk this path."

    Huang Shuyi shook his head helplessly, "So, you really became a soldier."

    "And you really became a celebrity," shemented. "Are you still as dirty as before?"

    "Will you shut up?"

    "Why should I" she retorted. "I have so many of your secrets. Do you think I''ll be rich if I started selling those secrets?"

    Huang Shuyi gave her a look, "Do you mind changing a bit?"

    "I do," she replied. She sneered, "Before telling me to change, you should do it too."

    Huang Shuyi was putting his head on the table to close his eyes but stopped to look at her and raised his brow at her.

    "Just how sleep-deprived you have been since your previous life?" asked Xiang Wai. "Have you still not had enough sleep?"

    "What is wrong with sleeping?" he retorted.

    "Sleeping beauty," said Xiang Wai.

    She couldn''t believe how this guy was still the same as before. Actually, they had been friends since elementary school. It was a bizarre coincidence that they had stayed as deskmates from elementary school to high school. It never changed. Never ever! So, it was not surprising that they both knew certain things about each other that no one else did.

    Huang Shuyi had always loved his sleep even when they were in school. He wouldn''t mind sleeping in ss. But he was still in the top 10 rankings. She was the first person to know when he became an idol trainee in his first year of high school. And this guy really loved to act like a star even back then. Of course, that didn''t involve giving up his sleep.

    This guy had to be the only one she knew about somewhat even after high school. They only interacted online but at least, he wasn''t like others who didn''t even know if she was alive or dead.

    "How is your mother?" he asked her.

    "You had always had a strange interest in my mom," said Xiang Wai. "Why?"

    "Why can''t I?" retorted Huang Shuyi. "She is amazing."

    "Really?"

    Huang Shuyi shrugged, "She might have not been an amazing mother but she had always been an amazing person. Even if you don''t agree."

    "You''re blind," said Xiang Wai.

    "No, you just look at her through the eyes of a daughter," was Huang Shuyi''s response. "Don''t be mad but I always said it. If she was never a good mother, you never tried to be a good daughter to her either. Do you think only you needed her? She needed you as much. But you didn''t want to ept it."

    Xiang Wai didn''t want to answer that. It wasn''t the first time he said something like this. His opinions never matched with hers. And that''s why they always got into fights. And their fights were not only verbal. They''d turn into brawls. Physical fights would always lead them to the hospitals. But they never stopped.

    "You always have something to say about my choices," remarked Xiang Wai. "Either it''s my mom or my love. You always have opinions."

    "I don''t have opinions about your love," he told her. "I always hated the fact that you made a guy your obsession. From someone like you, I always expected something different."

    "Sorry to disappoint you, Shuyi," she sighed.. "But I''ve always been a disappointment."

 Chapter 547 - Gladly

    "We look like those campus couples going on a date," remarked Shui Xian as he looked at his reflection in the mirror, standing beside Raelle. There was no doubt that they both looked young and sunny! But then again, his wife was always looking young. Especially when she didn''t wear any makeup. He was the real old one in the rtionship.

    Raelle was gazing at his face through the mirror with interest. She took in all the changes that appeared on his face within seconds. As she had told him once, he was the most expressive person she had ever met in her life. His feelings were so vivid on his face that sometimes she thought his eyes were having a conversation with her.

    It was a strange thought but that''s exactly how she thought.

    She lifted her hand without moving her body and caressed his face before making him put his chin on her shoulder. As their eyes met through their reflection, she asked, "Exactly, what is running through that mind of yours?"

    "I''m just thinking we''d have been a star couple if we were together in college," he stated honestly.

    "But by the time you entered college, I was already halfway in the corporate world," she replied matter-of-factly.

    "Ouch!" was Shui Xian''s response. "Thanks for reminding me, how dumb I am."

    "I won''t call you dumb," she said. "It''s just that I''m a genius."

    Shui Xian chuckled at her words, "Oh?" He raised his hand and pinched her cheek, "Indeed, my wife is a genius." Shui Xian found her so cute when she so straightforwardly called herself a genius. It wasn''t a lie and neither was she bragging. It was just a FACT! A fact most people already knew about Raelle Xiang.

    Because whenever her name would be mentioned, her genius status would definitely be mentioned.

    "But the real winner is still you, Mr. Husband," she said to him.

    "I am?" asked Shui Xian as he raised his brow at her.

    "Of course," she replied. "Didn''t you get to marry the genius? That makes you the real winner."

    Shui Xian gave her a peal of heartyughter and said, "I''m suddenly reminded of a song."

    "What song?"

    Shui Xian cleared his throat and hummed casually, "Oh, my God

    Baby, baby, don''t you see?

    I got everything you need

    O-only a genius could love a woman like she~~" [Song: LSD-Genius ft. Sia, Diplo, Labrinth.]

    "Don''t know the song," she told him.

    "I wasn''t expecting you to know it," he retorted. He nuzzled into her neck and breathed out, "I don''t feel like going out."

    "And what do you feel like doing?" she asked.

    Shui Xian dropped soft and gentle kisses on her neck as he pointed towards their bed, "I just to spend my day on the bed."

    "Sleeping?" she asked.

    Shui Xian looked up to lock his eyes with hers through the mirror and could almost imagine mirth shing in her eyes. "Only sleeping is not enough. I have better ideas."

    "Oh?" Raelle turned around to face him and ced her hands around his neck, "Why don''t you borate your better ideas?"

    "borate?" questioned Shui Xian dangerously. "Why don''t I just give you a demo? It''s free!"

    "Who said I like free things?" she asked him.

    "But you like me," he grinned at her shamelessly. He held her waist with both his hands and pushed her against the wall as his lips came inches away from hers. "Baby, your lips are inviting me toe and take a bite."

    "Why don''t just ept the invitation then?" she suggested.

    Shui Xian smirked before saying in a deep but low voice, "dly!"

    And just like that, he smacked his lips against her. True to his words, he definitely took a bite of her red lips making them look even more enticing. Originally, he was just teasing her but now he really didn''t want to leave. In fact, he thought spending the whole day on their bed was the best kind of vacation. How would it not be? He would rather worship her body and caress her body with his kisses. Ah! Just the thought of it was making his blood rush up!

    However, he wanted to go out with her as well. He wanted to take her around, show her things and experience different things together. With great willpower, he pulled himself away from her, and with his forehead against hers, he said, "Let''s stop here. Or we''ll really be going nowhere." He was certain of that. They''d really be going nowhere if he didn''t pull himself away from her.

    "Well, we can always go tomorrow," was her response making him curse under his breath.

    "Darling, I don''t have that much self-control. Don''t even think about trying to tease me right now."

    "I didn''t start it," she pointed out for him. But that didn''t mean she wasn''t interested in teasing him. In fact,tely that was her favorite thing to do. Test his self-control. Not so surprisingly, she didn''t even notice it herself. Yet!

    Shui Xian raked his fingers through his hair that he hadn''t gelled today and sighed, "Indeed, I was the one looking for trouble for myself." He took deep breaths to calm himself down and held her hand saying, "Let''s go now. If I stayed any longer in this room, I''ll really lose it." He wasn''t just saying it. He meant it.

    As they came downstairs, they found Mu Chenyan and Shui Koshing having a heated discussion in front of the wall that connected the Shui Manor to Xiang Vi.

    "Take care of yourself out there!" called out Shui Koshing to them when he noticed them.

    "Have fun!" Mu Chenyan waved at them with a smile which was actually quite sincere. She wasn''t shooting daggers at Shui Xian and he was more than happy with that.

    As soon as their car disappeared from the driveway, both Shui Koshing and Mu Chenyan''s heated discussion continued.. They both just could note to settle onmon grounds.

 Chapter 548 - Sinister

    "Let''s stop now," said Mu Chenyan to Shui Koshing when they didn''t manage to reach a decision even after an hour. "We should just go over and ask for Yue or Elder Xian''s opinion."

    Shui Koshing thought about it and nodded his head in agreement. That seemed to be the right thing to do. If they continued, they might argue till the next morning. "Let''s do that."

    Mu Chenyan was stretching her body when Shui Koshing frowned at her, "What are you doing?"

    "Preparing to climb over the wall," she replied as she shrugged nonchntly.

    Shui Koshing looked at the tall wall before them and then looked at her, "You can climb over it?"

    "Yeah," was her response.

    "Don''t break your old bones," he said.

    Mu Chenyan gave him a look, "You don''t have to be concerned about it."

    Shui Koshing took a deep breath and asked, "If you climb over the wall, what about me?"

    "Bro, just do the same," she told him.

    "I have no death wish," was his answer.

    Mu Chenyan looked at the height of the wall and gave him a disdainful nce, "Bro, you okay? No one can die from this height. At most, you''ll break a couple of bones. No big deal."

    "My old bones are very precious to me," he retorted. "Let''s walk around like civil people."

    "If you can''t climb it, that''s your problem," she said. "Why should I waste my half an hour going around to get to the house when I can get there within minutes."

    Shui Koshing held her wrist and dragged her along, "If I''m walking, so are you!"

    "What are you, a kid? Why do you need apany?"

    "Keep your sarcasm to yourself," he said.

    "I really wonder how did Qian Yin like someone soft like you?"

    Shui Koshing red at her, "Because not all women share your taste in men. Or they''d single for life like you!"

    "Hey! That''s a personal attack!"

    "So what?"

    They had already walked out of the main gate and reached the road while they continued to bicker. Even reaching the grand iron gates of Xiang Vi, they were still bickering over how Shui Koshing was acting like an old grandpa. It was funny how they could just take a car but since they were just going next door, they didn''t bother. Even though this next door was considered quite a distance because of the area both mansions covered.

    Outside the iron gates was parked a car and Xiang Weimin was leaning against the car hesitating for a while now. He was still chatting with Xiang Wai telling her how he was really nervous and really couldn''t bring himself to go inside. That''s when he heard the voices around him and looked up. As his eyes fell on Mu Chenyan, he stopped.

    "I am not an old grandpa! I''m just not as reckless as you are. I still wish to live a few more years," Shui Koshing was saying.

    "Oh? Why? Eager to y with your grandchildren?"

    "No! I''d love to spend a few more years with my daughter-inw!" was Shui Koshing''s response. He eyed Mu Chenyan, "Don''t tell me you''re eager to be a grandma."

    "What? I never even pictured my Elle''s baby. How would that look like?"

    "Definitely as gorgeous as my daughter-inw!" Shui Koshing shot back immediately. He was truly a Raelle fanatic at this point.

    "I actually wish her baby turns out to be like her," said Mu Chenyan. "You wouldn''t wanna deal with a Raelle Xiang replica. It''s not as pleasant as it seems." She loved her Elle but she knew how frustrating it was to see a kid act like an adult. She couldn''t even get the joy of raising a cute and adorable baby. "I hope that baby is like Xian instead."

    "What? Do you even know what kind of a devil he was when he was young?"

    "A naughty devil is better than a somber angel!" was Mu Chenyan''s response.

    "Who is that?" Shui Koshing''s gaze fell on Xiang Weimin and he voiced out his question.

    Mu Chenyan also lifted her eyes and looked at Xiang Weimin. When her eyes settled on his face, she was stunned and forgot to react. Her eyes popped out in disbelief as she continued to stare at Xiang Weimin without even blinking. Xiang Weimin found her gaze quite unnerving.

    Did he mention that he wasn''t even scared of his father as much he had once been afraid of this fun and trouble-loving aunt of his? He was quite naughty when he was young but usually, Mu Chenyan would take his side. However, if he did something that touched her bottom line, all hell would break loose.

    Xiang Weimin felt like the long-forgotten childhood was now standing before him. "Hi, Auntie Chen!"

    Mu Chenyan was pulled out of her reverie because of his voice and looked at Shui Koshing, "Am I dreaming right now or he is really standing here right now?"

    Shui Koshing rolled his eyes at her, "He is here. Do you want me to pinch you?"

    "Try it?" threatened Mu Chenyan and Shui Koshing held back. Even if he was older than her, he wouldn''t want to fight with this woman who liked using her hands more than her mouth.

    Mu Chenyan took a step closer to Xiang Weimin and raised her hand but hesitated a little. Xiang Weimin didn''t move an inch as he silently took in all her movements. She slowly poked his cheek and a big smile bloomed on her face, "Oh my! You''re really here."

    She still felt like she was dreaming. She did not think she''d be seeing him here. But he was here. No matter how surprised she was, it didn''t change her excitement. It only increased it by hundred fold or so. She was over the moon and wanted to hug him but she held herself back.

    They hadn''t met in years, it was not okay to just pounce at him. What if she scared him away? No, that can''t be done! Since he was here, she had to make sure he wasn''t able to leave! Like, ever!

    That sounded quite like a sinister plot but she didn''t give a damn about it for now.

 Chapter 549 - Hyper

    This had to be the first time for Shui Koshing to see Mu Chenyan looking so out of sorts. She was acting like a fool who didn''t even know how to react. But that fact alone was enough to show just how much Xiang Weimin being here meant to her. Shui Koshing didn''t have to be a genius like Raelle to figure out Xiang Weimin''s identity.

    Just from Mu Chenyan''s reaction, he had figured out somewhat. He stepped closer to Mu Chenyan and whispered, "Aren''t you nning on inviting him in?"

    Mu Chenyan was startled and her eyes widened in realization. That''s right! What the hell was she doing right now? She looked back at the security booth inside the iron gates and shouted, "What the hell are you doing? Why haven''t you opened the gate? The eldest young master of the family is standing out here under the sun and you all are not even weing him?!"

    The security people were all stunned by Mu Chenyan''s roar. They were scared of Mu Chenyan on normal days much less now that she seemed to be angry. They could tell they were toast now. But the worst part was that Xiang Weimin didn''t even try to enter. He just stood outside on the road. How would they know he was nning toe inside?

    The iron gates opened and Mu Chenyan turned back to look at Xiang Weimin, "Let''s go inside. Your grandfather would be so surprised to see you here." She was giggling like a little girl at the thought of how Grandfather Xiang would react. Xiang Weimin was about to follow her when Mu Chenyan stopped and looked back at him with a frown, "Wait. Get back in the car. The driveway is long. You shouldn''t walk that much. No, you shouldn''t even be out of your bed right now."

    Xiang Weimin raised his brow at her in surprise. From her words, it was obvious that she knew about his injury. And it seemed she knew even more details than most. Now, that was another thing he didn''t expect.

    "Don''t just stand there, get inside the car," instructed Mu Chenyan. Then she said to his driver, "Soldier, you can just drive him in." After that, she went to the security booth making everyone there shudder in fear. However, currently, she had no n to deal with them. She took out two hoverboards and passed one to Shui Koshing while she got on the other.

    "I don''t know how to use it," said Shui Koshing with a frown.

    "Then learn to use it, old man!" was Mu Chenyan''s response. "I''m in a hurry so I''m taking off now. See you inside!"

    Shui Koshing was left hesitating. Not because he didn''t know how to use the hoverboard but because he wasn''t sure if he should really go inside the Xiang Vi now or not? He was obviously here for Grandfather Xiang but now... He wasn''t certain if his Uncle Yu would even have time. Wouldn''t he be intruding into their family reunion?

    Mu Chenyan wooshed and soon came to stand beside Xiang Weimin''s car. She smiled at him and almost dragged him in but had to hold herself back again. She politely asked with some hesitation in her voice, "Come inside?"

    "I''m already here," was Xiang Weimin''s reply. "Why won''t I go inside now?"

    Mu Chenyan was happy to hear that and walked over to the wooden door. She opened it with her fingerprint and opened the door wide for him. With every step, she''d look back to see if he was behind. Xiang Weimin was also looking but at the house.

    She led him to the living room, "You should make yourselffortable here. I''ll bring Elder Xiang." She skipped in excitement and ran to find Grandfather Xiang.

    "Elder Xiang!" She barged into Grandfather Xiang''s room without even knocking. And that was a first for her. Grandfather Xiang was lying on the chaise chair with a thin nket on his legs. His eyes were closed but he wasn''t sleeping. Even if he was, with how loud Mu Chenyan was he''d definitely wake up.

    "Is the sky falling down?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    "No," she replied.

    "Then what is up with you?" asked Grandfather Xiang and frowned suddenly. "Did something happen to Yenay?"

    "Say something nice, Elder Xiang. Why would anything happen to my Elle?" she retorted.

    Grandfather Xiang heaved a sigh of relief and looked rxed now as he inquired further, "If that''s not the case, then what is getting you so hyper?"

    "This is a good kind of hyper!" grinned Mu Chenyan. "Forget all this ande out with me." She pushed his wheelchair close to him and called his personal attendants to put him on the wheelchair. Then she put his nket on his legs and pulled him out of the room.

    "Chenyan, with your age, it''s getting difficult to handle you,"mented Grandfather Xiang. "I know your energy is increasing with age but mine is draining. Have mercy on this old man."

    "In a moment, you''ll feel young again," said Mu Chenyan vaguely.

    Hearing the voices, Xiang Weimin stood up and turned to look back.

    "Surprise!" said Mu Chenyan to Grandfather Xiang who was left frozen. His reaction wasn''t much different than her own.

    There was a look of surprise, happiness, longing, disbelief, and also some cautiousness in his eyes. And none of this escaped Xiang Weimin''s eyes. He actually felt a bit stifled when he realized how both of them had that cautiousness when they looked at him.

    "Hello, Grandfather!" greeted Xiang Weimin as he came to stand before Grandfather Xiang, pulling him out of his daze.

    Mu Chenyan was so happy when she heard him calling Grandfather Xiang like that. Even she felt her eyes sting much less Grandfather Xiang who felt like his tears would fall.. But he was embarrassed to cry before his grandson. How old was he? Why was he getting so sentimental now?

 Chapter 550 - One Day

    Grandfather Xiang had to tilt his head to look at Xiang Weimin''s face. Thetter was quite tall and it wasn''t surprising. Whether it was Grandfather Xiang or Xiang Hulin, they both were around the same height.

    "You''re here," finally Grandfather Xiang spoke up but his words shook Xiang Weimin. "Grandfather has been waiting for you for so long." He sighed and took Xiang Weimin''s hand in his own as he smiled at him like a loving and kind old grandpa, "It''s good that you''re here. Wee home!"

    Mu Chenyan pped her hands saying, "Yes, yes! Wee home! This home and its people had been waiting for you for a very long time now."

    Xiang Weimin suddenly fell on his knees before Grandfather Xiang, and burst into tears, "I''m sorry, Grandfather. I made you wait. I''m really sorry it took me so long."

    Grandfather Xiang had a concerned look on his face as he patted his head and shook his head, "What nonsense! There is no need for an apology. Grandfather is already happy that you are here."

    "You shouldn''t cry," said Mu Chenyan. "Don''t you know you''ll get dehydrated if you shed too many tears?"

    "Huh?" Xiang Weimin looked up at her in confusion.

    "That''s what my Elle says and she is always right," said Mu Chenyan proudly making Xiang Weimin smile a little. She smiled along and added, "Oh, look how handsome you are. Why shed ugly tears? It doesn''t suit you."

    Grandfather Xiang looked around the living room as if he was looking for something or rather someone and couldn''t help asking, "You came alone?"

    Xiang Weimin paused when he heard that question and pursed his lips. Noticing his reaction, Mu Chenyan tried to save the situation saying, "Oho, Elder Xiang! Do you think your grandchildren are free?"

    Grandfather Xiang realized that he shouldn''t have questioned that. He had waited so long for Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai, who said he couldn''t wait more? Well, he would love to but he wasn''t so certain about his life. It was still unknown whether life would give him enough time. However, he was still willing to wait.

    "Grandfather, Wai had to attend a wedding of a friend," said Xiang Weimin.

    Grandfather Xiang smiled at him and didn''t say anything about this anymore. "You should get up now from the ground. Your legs are injured. Don''t strain them like that." Then he turned to Mu Chenyan and raised his brows, "Chenyan?"

    "Yes?"

    "Usually, you love to feed people. Today, you aren''t even asking if he is thirsty or not?"

    Mu Chenyan gasped at the realization and knocked on her head, "How can I forget that?" She looked at Xiang Weimin and asked, "Wei, what do you want to eat?"

    "I already had lunch," he told her.

    "Oh? Then what about drinks? What do you want to drink? C? Water? Tea? Coffee? Fresh orange juice? Vodka? Some beer perhaps?"

    "That''s what you are craving, don''t put it into his head," said Grandfather Xiang.

    Xiang Weimin silently chuckled, "Anything would do, Aunt."

    "It''s been a long while someone called me aunt,"mented Mu Chenyan.

    "Really?" asked Xiang Weimin in surprise.

    Guessing his thoughts, she said, "Elle doesn''t call me aunt. She never did. I''ve always been just Yanyan to her." She had a doting look in her eyes when she talked about her Elle. "Forget it. I''ll bring you something to drink and some snacks as well. Even if you had lunch, there is always space for snacks."

    "You don''t have to," Xiang Weimin tried to stop her but how could Mu Chenyan listen now?

    "Let her be," said Grandfather Xiang. "Chenyan is happy to see you here. And now that she found her target to feed, you are in for one hell of a ride." He was always helpless when it came to Mu Chenyan. He could neither control her nor was he able to keep up with her after all these years.

    And he could see how aftering back to the country and especially after Raelle''s marriage, Mu Chenyan''s obsession with feeding people was getting out of hand. Just yesterday she and Yue sent a food box to Lin Zhen''s house since he was living in the same residential area. And since he was Hyson''s groupmate, they couldn''t just not take care of him.

    Grandfather Xiang didn''t know what to talk about with Xiang Weimin and neither did he know what to say. For the first time ever, Grandfather Xiang thought how easy it was to interact with Raelle. He always had something to talk about with her and even if he didn''t and they just sat together in silence, it was always peaceful.

    "How is your health?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    Grandfather Xiang replied, "I''m old now. Not as hearty and healthy as before but still doing good." He took a pause and added, "How about you? How are your injuries?"

    "I''ve recovered," said Xiang Weimin.

    "That''s not what your doctor says," said Grandfather Xiang. "Take better care of yourself. I know you''re still at the age where these injuries don''t seem to matter but trust me, it won''t be the same forever."

    Xiang Weimin could tell that he was genuinely concerned and this realization made him purse his lips. "I''ll take better care of myself."

    "Weimin," called out Grandfather Xiang to him making him look up at him.

    "Yes?"

    "We are very proud of you," said Grandfather Xiang. "Although I never wanted my grandchildren to carry on the so-called legacy of our Xiang family, I was still proud of you when I heard that you had chosen to join Air Force. Grandfather would have been proud of you no matter what you had chosen but this, still touched my heart."

    Xiang Weimin didn''t even realize that he was smiling happily right now.

    "When you were just 4, I took you to an air force training drill. You saw those nes flying and said, ''Grandpa, I''m gonna fly up there one day.'' I didn''t take your words seriously. Who knew you were really serious."

    To be very honest, Xiang Weimin didn''t remember that. He was just four. He hardly remembered anything from that age. But he was also surprised to know that even his younger self was as obsessed with those nes as he was now.. Indeed, a child''s childhood shaped their future.

 Chapter 551 - Our Time

    "What''s in that box?" questioned Raelle to Shui Xian in the car. She had already noticed that box as soon as had entered the car.

    Shui Xian who was busy ying with her fingers paused and his eyes widened. He looked at the box and knocked on his head, "Aiyah! I forgot!" He hurriedly took the box from the front seat and passed it to her. "It''s for you."

    "Thank you," she said. She already knew that the box had something to do with her. And it was proven right. She calmly opened the box and took the things out. She held the things in her hand and looked at Shui Xian.

    "Didn''t I say I have a way to make us differentiate our phones?" Shui Xian took the phone case from her hand and then took her phone as well to help her put it on. After he was done, he looked satisfied when he looked at her phone and his own side by side.

    That content and a slightly smug smile on his face didn''t escape Raelle''s eyes. She looked at the customized phone cases again. Her phone cover was white and you could see a girl in ck standing beside a man in white. The most eye-catching detail was that crown on the girl''s head and the same crown brooch on the guy''s chest pocket.

    On the other hand, his phone cover was the same design but different colorbination. For instance, his phone cover was ck and the girl figure on his case was dressed in red.

    Apart from that, all the details were the same.

    "Really?" she asked him.

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "Now we won''t mix up our phones." If one asked Shui Xian why he chose such a design, his answer would be simple. The night she put on that crown design brooch on him was the night he finally dered to the whole world that she was his. And that was the night she said, ''I''m your Queen.''

    To be very honest, he wanted to add ''Queen and King'' respectively on both cases but he stopped himself from doing that. Just adding those crowns subtly was enough.

    "You don''t like it?" he asked cautiously this time when he noticed that she had not said anything.

    Raelle shook her head, "I did not say that. It looks good."

    Shui Xian heaved a sigh of relief once he heard that from her. Raelle didn''t know what else to say. She had long realized that her dear husband''s taste was quite peculiar. Or maybe he was fine. Something was wrong with her own taste.

    When they reached their location, Shui Xian looked around with a frown and asked, "What are we doing here?"

    "I believe peoplee to the equestrian club for horse riding," replied Raelle. "We couldn''t possibly be here for dancing."

    "We can go dancing if you want," said Shui Xian.

    "Nope," replied Raelle. "I want to do some horse riding today." Raelle pointed in another direction and said, "There is D.W Resort over there. After this, we''ll have our lunch there. Then I heard they have a golf course and even an archery ground. We can try whichever you want."

    Shui Xian shrugged his shoulders nonchntly, "It doesn''t matter. I am up for anything."

    "Right, you''d love to do anything as long as you get to cling to me."

    Shui Xian grinned at her, "Oh my! My wife has me all figured out now. I love it." He pinched her cheek lovingly and said, "Then wifey, how about you let me just cling to you?"

    "What have you been doing until now?" asked Raelle.

    "I''ve been keeping my distance like a gentleman," answered Shui Xian solemnly.

    If anyone else would have heard that they''d have rolled their eyes at Shui Xian''s answer. When had he been gentleman enough to keep a distance from Raelle? His dishonest hands could never keep a distance from her.

    Both of them went to change into riding outfits and came to the horse stable to choose a horse. To be honest, Shui Xian knew nothing about horse breeds. Although aristocrats loved to have these hobbies, Shui Xian never managed to develop his interest in such hobbies. It''s not that he couldn''t ride a horse. Of course, he learned it. But he wasn''t really a fan of horse riding either.

    But seeing how serious Raelle was as she looked at all the horses, he couldn''t help asking, "Baby, you like horse riding?"

    Raelle stopped to look at him and said, "I think I do." Then she pointed at a ck strong and majestic-looking horse saying, "I''ll ride this one." She seemed to like this Friesian horse which was known for being graceful and having agile actions and just selected it. The horse was shiny ck, powerfully muscled, had a thick mane and tail, and even had feathers on lower legs. "What about you?" she asked Shui Xian.

    "I..." he didn''t know how to answer that. He sheepishly scratched the back of his neck saying, "I''m not that familiar with horses. So, I''m fine with anything." He thought of something and added, "In fact, how about we just ride one horse?" His eyes were sparkling when he suggested that. In fact, the initial spark got brighter and brighter and turned into a full-blown me. How could it not?

    Riding solo must be exciting and fun?

    But he was certain riding with his wife was even better! He had no doubt about it!

    As if Raelle could read his thoughts, she just stared at him in silence for a minute before agreeing, "Okay. Let''s do that."

    "You agree?" he asked uncertainly and in confusion.

    "Why wouldn''t I agree?" she responded.

    "Didn''t youe here to enjoy your time riding horses?"

    "No," she replied. "I came here with you to enjoy our time together."

    Shui Xian was stumped and just gazed at her as she caressed the smooth skin of the ck horse as she held the horse rein in her other hand.

 Chapter 552 - Dilemma

    Raelle got on the horse and looked down at Shui Xian, "Youing?"

    Shui Xian nodded and instantly got on the horse. He was sitting behind her with his arms wrapped around her waist. He didn''t even take the reins from her. He''d rather just hold her than hold the reins.

    Raelle lightly tapped the horse with her foot and it started trotting. But as soon as it got on the horse track, the speed increased and they seemed to be flying now. Shui Xian did not think she''d ride the horse at such speed. After all, on usual days, his wife would always follow the traffic rules and ride within the speed limit.

    But now, it was as of she had just let go of her rule-following self and set herself free. However, it was also true that there didn''t seem to be any rules on the horse track. At least now when they were only one in the equestrian club. When Shui Xian had entered it, he thought it was weird. He might not be into horse riding but he already heard about the fame of this club.

    And certainly, a lot of wealthy people loved toe here on weekends but today, none could be seen apart from them. He had a bold guess in his mind that his wife booked the whole club for today. He just had to ask her to confirm itter on.

    As they slowed down after a long-distance, Shui Xian asked, "Wifey, did you book the whole ce?"

    "What kind of a date would it be if there''d be others to disturb us?" was her response.

    And that just confirmed his spection. As always, she''d never even blink before throwing away money to get her privacy.

    "If we were in Country G, I wouldn''t even have to do it," stated Raelle. "I have my own ranch there."

    "Really?" Shui Xian was curious to learn more about it. She usually didn''t talk about herself. At least, not about her life in Country G. He knew there were plenty of things about her life that he still didn''t know. However,tely, his focus was only on learning everything about her person and nothing else.

    "Hmm..." she hummed in reply. "Hyson and I even raised our horses there."

    "What kind of a horse do you have?" asked Shui Xian.

    "I have a grey Mustang. It has some white spots on it. Beautiful grey mane."

    Shui Xian''s brows knitted up, "Aren''t Mustangs referred to as wild horses? I heard they are quite untamed."

    "Isn''t that just the right breed for me?" she asked him return. "Untamed."

    Shui Xian hugged her even more tightly from behind as he nodded his head, "That is true."

    They went back to the stables and Raelle said, "Mr. Husband, how about a bet?"

    Shui Xian jumped down from the horse and looked up at her, "A bet? What''s at stake?"

    "Anything you want," she said.

    "You''re giving me free-range?" he asked.

    "I am," she answered. "So, you''re up for it?"

    Shui Xian looked conflicted, "But there is nothing I want from you."

    "You sure about that?" she asked again. "Think again."

    "You''re already mine," he said. "What else can I ask for?" He shook his head helplessly since he really didn''t need anything. What could they really put at stake?

    "How about this then," she started. "If I won, you''ll write me a song. And you won, I''ll cook something for you."

    Shui Xian''s eyes widened before he waved his hands, "No way! That''s not happening. You are not going to cook. Not at all!"

    "You think I can''t do it just because I have never done it?"

    "No, I know you can do it. But what makes you think I want you to do it?" he retorted. "Even Grandpa never let you enter the kitchen, what makes you think I''d do it?"

    "Don''t husbands feel happy when their wives cook for them?" she asked since that is what she read about.

    "I''m happier when you''re far away from the dangers of the kitchen," he told her. "Did you forget? Yanyan told you it''s a dangerous ce."

    "Then what else can I do?"

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and thought about it before saying, "If I won, you''de to my office and we''ll have lunch together. Face to face. In person!"

    "That''s all?" she asked.

    "That''s more than enough for me," he replied. "In fact, that''ll make me happier than you cooking for me."

    "Okay," she agreed.

    Shui Xian pointed at a chestnut color horse and said, "I''ll ride that one." Then he looked back at his wife and asked, "You really want me to write a song for you?"

    "Yes," she replied.

    "But you don''t even like music," he pointed out.

    "But you do," she said to him seriously. "Besides, I told you to write a song for me. I didn''t say anything about music."

    Shui Xian didn''t understand that for a while. Until it clicked! She couldn''t listen to music because it was too loud for her. But songs were more than just music! Her meaning was lyrics! Indeed, she said he had to ''write'' a song for her. As always she was being very literal with her words.

    "I feel lonely now,"mented Shui Xian as he got on his horse. "I still think it was better to ride together."

    "But I''m right here," said Raelle. "How are you lonely?"

    "Now, there is the distance between us," he pointed out with his arm. "How is this not being lonely? Distance is a cruel thing in a rtionship. Don''t you know that?"

    "Hubby, you should really stop it," suggested Raelle.

    Shui Xian sighed heavily, "Fine. I''ll stop now. But this race I''m definitely winning."

    "Oh? That eager to make me a loser?"

    Shui Xian was stumped once again. That''s right. If he won then she''d be losing. But if he lost, how will he have lunch with her at his office? What a dilemma!

 Chapter 553 - Actor

    "I''m so sleepy."

    Xiang Wai gave Huang Shuyi a sideways nce, "When are you not?"

    Huang Shuyi looked at her straight posture and shook his head. In fact, he wasn''t all that surprised when she joined the army. He always had an inkling she''d do it. She talked like a soldier and acted like one from a young age. Except for the times when she was looking for trouble.

    "When was thest time you attended a wedding?" he asked her.

    Xiang Wai shrugged her shoulders, "I can''t remember. But I''m sure it was a wedding of one of my colleagues."

    "After that, you didn''t bother attending your colleagues'' weddings?"

    "No," she shook her finger before his eyes. "No other colleague of mine got married after that." She looked at him and asked, "What about you? Any of your colleagues got married?"

    Huang Shuyi chuckled at that, "As if marriages are thatmon in the entertainment industry." As the band started ying music, he leaned close to her and whispered, "I just mixed a whole lot of our ssmates. Did you recognize everyone?"

    "Of course," she replied.

    "I shouldn''t have even asked that question," he said. "How can Major Xiang Wai''s memory be so bad? She had always been the smartest in our ss."

    Xiang Wai snorted, "I ain''t that smart."

    "You always stayed in the top 3 of the whole grade and at the top of the ss and yet, you want to say you aren''t smart?"

    "You are calling me smart because you haven''t met my brother who had always topped not only in the grade but the whole city! And if that''s enough, you definitely should learn about my sister. Apparently, she is a genius who skipped sses and graduated by the age of 15!" She looked at him straight and added, "With this kind of a family, do you think that I''m smart? I seem pretty average."

    "Who said there is anything wrong with being average?" he questioned in displeasure and turned silent once the bride and groom stood in front of each other on the stage. He didn''t know when did she start calling herself average? She had always been pretty satisfied with what she was.

    And in all honesty, the fact that she never took her studies seriously was infuriating to most nerds since, at the end of the day, she''d still be the first one in the ss and in the top 3 of the whole grade. So, he believed if she really paid attention, she''d be just like her siblings or maybe even more.

    After all, they all shared the same genes.

    The wedding ceremony was the same old, exchanging vows, rings, and they kiss. Nothing new about that for sure. They sat through the ceremony and joined the reception to congratte the newlyweds.

    "I see Shuyi is still close to Wai," said Tang Ping when she looked at these two.

    "Have we been close?" asked Wai as she looked at Huang Shuyi. "I don''t think so."

    "Oh,e on! You guys had been deskmates for years. You still want to say you were never friends?"

    "Look at us," said Wai. "He had always loved to sleep while I loved to party. We have nothing inmon except for the fact that we sat together for years."

    Tang Ping chuckled at her, "If you say so."

    "And here I thought we were best friends," Huang Shuyi pretended to be hurt. "I always shared everything with you and here you are..."

    "I thought you''re a singer, when did you be an actor?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Don''t you know? Everyone in this industry is an actor," was Huang Shuyi''s response.

    "Tang Ping, what''s your cousin doing here?"

    Tang Ping lifted her eyes to look at the woman who was walking towards her right now. Xiang Wai and Huang Shuyi also followed her gaze to look at the woman. d in a sapphire-colored dress, the woman had her long locksid over her chest in loose curls. She wore moon-shaped earrings studded with diamonds and a matching ne and bracelet.

    "Congrattion, Xiao Ping," said the woman with a smile on her face as she came to stand before Tang Ping.

    Tang Ping had aplicated look in her eyes as she looked at this cousin of hers and tried to smile back, "Thanks."

    "I''m sad that you didn''t even invite me to your wedding."

    "I didn''t even know that you''re back, Bebe."

    Tang Hebe didn''t continue this topic and shrugged, "Well, I''m happy I got to be here today."

    Huang Shuyi pulled Xiang Wai back and asked, "Why does this atmosphere look so strange?"

    "Do I look like the narrator of gossip girl to you, Shuyi?"

    "No," he replied.

    Xiang Wai gave him a fake smile, "I certainly am not. What makes you think I''d know about gossips?"

    "I thought Tang Ping didn''t invite anyone from the Tang family."

    Just because they didn''t know what was going on here, didn''t mean there weren''t people who were as oblivious as them.

    "Isn''t that because Tang Ping''s parents had separated from the Tang family long ago?"

    "But Tang Ping always had a good rtionship with Tang Hebe. I was surprised she didn''t invite her to her own wedding."

    "Who knows what''s going on? These big families are always messy."

    "And the children from these families are never as innocent as they seem."

    Xiang Wai started to walk away since she wasn''t interested in listening any more. Huang Shuyi followed her and said, "Hey, I never knew Tang Ping was part of a big family."

    "So what?" retorted Xiang Wai. "Does it matter? Who her family is none of our concern. Especially since big families are really no good."

    "Major, are you forgetting that you are also from a big family?"

    Xiang Wai frowned, "There is only a handful of people alive in my Xiang family.. How does that make me a part of a big family?" She rolled her eyes at him and continued to walk.

 Chapter 554 - Winner

    "Don''t forget you have Song family," reminded Huang Shuyi. "And that''s a big family."

    "I have the blood of Xiang family in my veins," retorted Xiang Wai. "Not Song family." From a very young age, she never epted herself as a part of a Song family. And that''s why their opinions hardly mattered to her. She knew very well that she was part of the Xiang family. Her surname was Xiang. Not Song. So, just staying with the Song family won''t make her a member of that family.

    "Come, I''ll treat you to lunch, my deskmate," said Huang Shuyi. His tone was quite sarcastic when he called her ''deskmate''. This idiot woman wasn''t even willing to call him a friend! And it''s true that if he didn''t try to stay in contact with her, she''d have long drifted far away from him. So even though they talked only a handful of times in a year, it was still better than his other ssmates. "Who knows when I''ll see you again."

    "There is also a possibility you''ll never see me again," pointed out Xiang Wai. "After all, soldiers die every day."

    "I don''t wanna hear that," said Huang Shuyi. "Juste with me. I''ll treat you to lunch."

    "We could have eaten at the reception."

    "Did you want to stay any longer?"

    "No."

    "Then stop this bullshit."

    Xiang Wai felt her phone vibrating and took it out to check. Again, the message was from her brother. Her brows knitted up as she wondered what happened to him now. Did he still not enter the house? But when she opened the message, she learned that he definitely entered the house.

    Ge: [Wai, grandpa is really good... And aunt is still a little crazy.]

    Ge: [Grandpa misses you as well.]

    Ge: [Why don''t youe over?]

    Ge: [They''ll be very happy to see you here.]

    Xiang Wai was silent when she read all these messages from him. She knew her brother wasn''t lying to her just to make her go there. However, whether she''d be going to see her grandfather... She didn''t know yet.

    Just as they entered the restaurant, Xiang Wai stopped in her track once her eyes fell on that pair sitting beside the window.

    In the corner, Shui Xian was frowning deeply right now while Raelle was going through the menu in her hands. She looked up at her husband and asked, "Didn''t you win? Why are you making that face?"

    Shui Xian''s trance broke and his lips turned downward, "The real question is, how did I win?" Let''s face it, he had no faith in his riding skills. He wasn''t a skilled rider but his wife was. If someone told him nothing was fishy about it, he wouldn''t be able to believe it. "Wife, did you go easy on me? Did you let me win?"

    Raelle put down the menu and looked into his eyes, "Do I look like someone who would allow others to win? I have always been a winner in my life."

    "Then how did I win?"

    Raelle stayed silent in response to that question. It was true that his riding skills couldn''t match with hers but his horse was quite energetic and had a will to win as well. But the main point was that she lost her focus during the race. Darkness spread before her eyes all of a sudden and because of that, she had to decrease the speed of her horse.

    Obviously, Raelle didn''t tell him the detail of how she felt ufortable earlier. Especially since she wouldn''t be able to tell him where and how it felt ufortable. And also, after drinking some water, she was feeling better. So, she didn''t think there was a need to say anything.

    She always avoided mentioning her difort. Because she could already tell Shui Xian might take it worse than Opa and Yanyan did. And she had no mood of visiting a hospital. Her sugar level must have been down and that''s the exnation she gave herself.

    "Mr. Husband, don''t look so down. Or I''ll think that you don''t want to have that lunch with me."

    Shui Xian''s eyes widened, "What? Who said that? I am so eager to have that lunch with you. But you lost. How am I supposed to be happy?"

    "If you can be sad because I lost, why can''t I be happy that you won?" she questioned. "Stop looking at things negatively. The positive is that one of us won."

    Shui Xian shook his head helplessly, "But your bet..."

    "Are you telling me you won''t write me a song without a bet?" asked Raelle.

    "Huh? No way. I don''t need a bet for that," said Shui Xian.

    "That''s the thing here. From the very beginning, our bet was quite pointless. After all, if you have once asked me out for that lunch, I''d definitely show up. And the same goes for you. If I ask you to write a song, you''ll do it. We never needed that bet."

    Shui Xian smiled to himself and nodded his head, "That''s true. We never needed that bet."

    Raelle pushed the menu to him, "Then stop sulking and order something already. The day isn''t over yet." She wouldn''t be able to understand how this guy was not even happy after winning. There weren''t that many people who could win against her and yet, he wasn''t happy about that.

    But it was obviously because Shui Xian was all ready to lose from the beginning. Maybe he wanted to win but not to the point of seeing his wife lost. Now, he was really not feeling as exhrated as he usually did after a win.

    Raelle leaned back in her chair and crossed her arms before her chest. She lifted her head to look around and that''s when she met Xiang Wai''s eyes. Raelle didn''t move her eyes away, instead, she continued to stare at her and thetter did the same.

    Raelle lifted her hand a little and waved at her making Xiang Wai frown deeply.

 Chapter 555 - One Sided

    Although when Xiang Wai met Raellest time, thetter wasn''t hostile to her, however, it was still weird for her to think that Raelle would be friendly to her either. She hadn''t forgotten what her brother told her about this younger sister.

    Then why was this woman waving at her right now with that fake smile of hers?

    Now if Major Xiang Wai was being honest, you''d know that she actually found Raelle''s attempt at smiling friendly quite adorable. As for the reason? She didn''t know herself. She just thought her sister was cute and that thought definitely align with what she had been hearing about Raelle.

    "President Raelle?"

    Xiang Wai snapped out of her thoughts when she heard Huang Shuyi calling out to Raelle. She turned her head to look at this friend of hers and her eyes narrowed.

    Hearing his voice, even Shui Xian looked up from the menu and turned towards him.

    Huang Shuyi gave him a nod as a greeting, "Master Xian!"

    Shui Xian''s eyes actually fell on Xiang Wai first. But he couldn''t be med for that. Xiang Wai''s presence was hard to ignore just like Raelle. They both had different auras and personalities but one thing was certain, they both demanded attention.

    "Oh hi, Huang Shuyi," said Shui Xian.

    Huang Shuyi stepped closer to their table and said, "It''s a pleasant surprise running into you both here."

    "I think we should be one saying that," stated Raelle. "I heard you''re staying with that talent show crew these days. So, it''s really a surprise to see you here."

    Huang Shuyi was surprised when Raelle said that. "President Raelle is really well-informed."

    "Hyson likes to talk," was Raelle''s response as if that was enough to exin everything and it actually was. "And when I say he likes to talk, I mean he really likes to talk."

    Huang Shuyi''s brows knitted together slightly, "Thates as a surprise to me though. Little Fai had never been that fond of talking since we met him."

    Raelle didn''t exin to him that the chatterbox would never stop talking once he was around her. Yes, she certainly knew that he wasn''t like that with everyone. Even if he was close to someone, he''d still not talk as much as he did with her. Ironically, words were never needed between them.

    "I heard you love to sleep off your time off," said Shui Xian. "Should I be concerned as your boss that you''re awake right now?"

    "Shouldn''t you be happy about that?" asked Huang Shuyi.

    Shui Xian shrugged his shoulders nonchntly, "If I''m forcing you to bring a change within you, that certainly makes me an evil boss."

    Huang Shuyi chuckled at that. He was actually casual talking to these two bigshots. Unlike Lin Zhen, he wasn''t really scared of their authority. For one, he knew these two weren''t unreasonable. So, there was no need to be so cautious around them. And two, they had been pretty easygoing over the dinnerst time. They were the ones who asked them to talk to them casually.

    "I won''t say that," said Huang Shuyi. "I''d have actually loved to sleep. It''s just that a high school ssmate of mine was getting married today and he invited me. I couldn''t refuse."

    "You came over for the wedding of a high school ssmate?" asked Raelle. Seeing him nod, she added, "Was it not fun? Why are you already out?"

    "I think I''d have more fun at President Raelle''s wedding," said Huang Shuyi without any hesitation. "And it''ll be even more special once I''ll be the one singing."

    "Are you right now rmending yourself as the wedding singer?" asked Raelle in interest. She actually quite liked this guy who seemed to have no filter on his mouth like her. He wasn''t as cautious as others and did things the way he liked. He was exactly how Hyson said he was.

    "Yes, I am," he nodded his head with a grin.

    "You''re not getting paid for it," said Shui Xian from the side with a smirk on his face.

    Huang Shuyi sighed, "Now, you''re being stingy."

    "How is that being stingy? I''m being economical here. It means to n for the future. If I pay so much on just my wedding singer, how will I bring my wife home?"

    Huang Shuyi tsked at him, "Your wife is already at home." He turned his head to Xiang Wai as she finally came to stand beside him after much contemtion and introduced, "Oh, this is my best friend, Xiang Wai."

    "Best friend?" questioned Shui Xian as he was wondering just how small the world was?

    Hyson was Raelle''s best friend and Huang Shuyi was Hyson''s bandmate and now, Xiang Wai was Huang Shuyi''s best friend. The world is really aplicated ce. But the thought that the world was getting smaller and smaller actually gave him an uneasy feeling for some inexplicable reason.

    "Who is your best friend?" grumbled Xiang Wai.

    Huang Shuyi rolled his eyes, "Yes, yes. This friendship is one-sided." He didn''t know what else to say. It was infuriating how Xiang Wai just had to go against him at every turn.

    Shui Xian feigned a cough to disguise hisughter that was threatening to burst out. It couldn''t be helped actually. That one-sided friendshipment just got to him. He had heard it before from Raelle and Hyson and let''s face it, there was nothing one-sided in their friendship. And if they insist there was, then these people really didn''t know the meaning of what a one-sided friendship was.

    "Well, hello, Major!" said Raelle calmly.

    "Hello to you too, little sister!"

    Xiang Wai''s lips curled up when she said it. She was actually waiting for a reaction. She was hoping for her to say that she had no right to call her a sister. However, she was bound to be disappointed. In the end, the truth was that Xiang Weimin was right.. Raelle would never deny the rtionship they shared.

 Chapter 556 - Credit

    Huang Shuyi was shaken once he heard how Xiang Wai addressed Raelle. And when Raelle didn''t seem to mind the way Xiang Wai called her, little sister. He was suspicious before staring at both Raelle and Xiang Wai with a scrutinizing gaze. However, he couldn''t really find anything at all. These two had nothing inmon.

    Oh, wait!

    He suddenly realized that these two indeed had something inmon and that seemed to be their surname. Xiang. He mentally facepalmed himself and gazed at Raelle curiously. It wasn''t that he didn''t know that Xiang Wai had a younger sister. He actually knew this fact. As for anything else about this younger sister? It waspletely nk.

    The only thing he seemed to know about Xiang Wai''s sister was what he heard earlier from her that her sister was a genius. His lips twitched as he mentally screamed, ''Genius? That''s right! That''s a prodigy right there!''

    The others around him didn''t seem to care about his internal struggle right now at all.

    "It seems Major has too much free time on her hand to even take out some time to attend weddings now,"mented Raelle.

    Xiang Wai''s lips curled up as she said, "Doesn''t the credit for that goes to you?"

    "Oh my, I can''t just randomly take credit for anything now," said Raelle. "After all, I didn''t even lift a finger. It was all you."

    "In fact, I should extend my gratitude to you," said Xiang Wai. "If it wasn''t for you, I wouldn''t have realized just how fucked up of a life I had been living for the past few years."

    As for how she came to that realization? It was when she had too much time on her hand but had no idea how to spend that time. That''s when she realized how far she hade from who she once was. How could work be her life? She was the person who never took things seriously in her life.

    She never even took her studies seriously to be a top achiever. Even back then, she''d rather go to watch a ballet or y basketball with college boys. Heck, she didn''t even mind spending all day in the inte cafe ying random games.

    But now, everything lost meaning to her. Apart from work, nothing was left and this realization left an unsettling feeling in her heart.

    "I should say thank you for making me realize that I needed to find myself all over again," said Xiang Wai.

    Raelle studied Xiang Wai''s face carefully. Her interest was actually caught from the fact that Xiang Wai seemed to have changed from thest time they met. It hadn''t even been that long and yet, she could see the difference. The Xiang Wai she met in the interrogation room was too hard on herself.

    But the one standing before her right now seemed too rxed as if she had finally cut off everything that had been tying her down.

    How could Raelle not find it interesting?

    "Then I''ll dly ept your gratitude," said Raelle. "But you shouldn''t be so thankful, I often do such kind acts without even realizing it myself."

    Shui Xian lowered his face to hide his smile while Xiang Wai couldn''t hide hers. She chuckled at her words and said, "You''re funny."

    "I am?" asked Raelle and seeing how Xiang Wai nodded in response, she added, "Your sense of humor is broken if you think that I''m funny."

    Shui Xian couldn''t see it anymore and chime in, "Would you guys like to join us for lunch?"

    "Enjoy your date," said Xiang Wai as she pulled Huang Shuyi away from them. It''s not like she was oblivious to the rtionship between Shui Xian and Raelle. And she didn''t even have to be a genius to know this pair of husband and wife were on a date. She didn''t wish to y a third-wheeler here.

    "I like your sister,"mented Shui Xian when Xiang Wai and Huang Shuyi left and settled on a table a fair distance away from them. He frowned to himself, "I''m surprised how Yanjun didn''t manage to fall in love with her?"

    "And who said he doesn''t love her?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian was surprised when he heard that question from her. "Well..." He couldn''t find the right words right now.

    "Mr. Husband, everyone has their own ways of love,"mented Raelle calmly. "Just because you and I can''t understand it, doesn''t mean Yanjun had never loved her."

    Shui Xian contemted her words and told her, "But Yanjun told me that even Xiang Wai said to him that he didn''t love her. Shouldn''t at least she''d have felt if it was love?"

    "That could also mean that Yanjun just never knew how to show that love," said Raelle. "He doesn''t look like an expressive kind of a person. It wouldn''t be a surprise if you told me he doesn''t even know how to love."

    Shui Xian was suddenly reminded of Zhai Yanjun''s family situation and pursed his lips. How could he forget that Zhai Yanjun had long detached himself from everything and everyone in his life? And his detachment was kind of scary as well. Even when he started living with his grandparents, he couldn''t change much.

    Even though his grandparents loved him, even they hardly had time for him. One was the Dean of a college and the other was a famous traditional painter. They always had their own activities to attend to. In that situation, the meaning of love that Zhai Yanjun knew of or understood was definitely not what he was familiar with.

    "Why is it that it''s always you who sees things clearly?" asked Shui Xian subconsciously.

    "Because I know how to look at things without getting feelings involved," was her answer. Certainly, she wasn''t familiar with many feelings but she could still see things clearly.. And just the fact that Zhai Yanjun ditched his blind date with her for Xiang Wai was enough for her to re-evaluate what kind of a rtionship these two shared.

 Chapter 557 - A Kid

    Shui Xian finally ordered the food for the both of them and propped his elbows on the table while cupping his face to look at his wife. As a big boss, this posture was really unsuitable for his image. But this mister was acting like a college guy who was on a date with his girlfriend. Why would he care about his image right now?

    Raelle''s eyes were set on the golf field that could be seen from the restaurant''s ss windows.

    "Baby, how about you pay more attention to me?"

    Raelle nced at him and said, "When have I not given you attention?"

    "Right now," he pointed out. "You''re more interested in things outside the window."

    Raelle straightened up and copied his way of sitting. She also cupped her face and looked at him, "Is this okay with you?"

    Shui Xian grinned at her, "Perfect!"

    "I heard arge part of this area is unimed?" asked Raelle. "Seeing how popr this resort is, howe no one else is taking advantage of this area and developing it?"

    Shui Xian sighed when he realized how he couldn''t just avoid this business discussion around her. "That''s because this area is like a hot potato. No one wants to mess with the people behind this resort." He took a brief pause and exined the situation to her in detail. And just like that their conversation flowed but circled around the financial world. "Don''t tell me you want to do something here?"

    Raelle shook her head, "I''ve never been into real estate."

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "That''s true. But the question is why? Real estate is a hot issue in today''s age. No, it had been for a few decades now. Howe you don''t take it up?"

    "Don''t feel the need to do so," she answered.

    Shui Xian lowered his voice and asked, "Wifey, I heard from my grandfather once that the Xiang family''s roots are so deep that they were once rewarded with their own fief. They had acres of agriculturalnd gifted to them as well. Is it true?"

    "That''s what the history says," she said. "Opa said most of thends were given to the military to build their bases. But the agriculturalnd was kept back then. Now, thends are contracted out. But I don''t know the details since that part of the property was given to my father and my siblings." She stopped for a moment to think before adding, "The only ce Opa kept was the ancestral house. I have never been there but Yanyan says just a random vase in that ce is enough to shock people."

    "I don''t doubt it," said Shui Xian. "There must be plenty of artifacts lying around in the Xiang family''s ancestral home." As for why he didn''t doubt it, it had something to do with a couple of gifts that his grandfather had in his study given by Grandfather Xiang. Estimating the mere value of those things was not easy at all.

    "Why are you suddenly curious about my family''s history?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian was about to answer when the food was served so he stayed silent. When everything wasid before them and the servers left, only then he said, "Just curious. No reason. It just came to my mind out of nowhere."

    After that, he didn''t speak. He knew Raelle won''t talk while eating so he silently ate his own meal.

    On the other side, no matter what Xiang Wai couldn''t stop herself from looking towards Raelle from time to time. Huang Shuyi was hesitant but he still chose to ask for confirmation, "President Raelle is your sister?"

    "Do we look like sisters?" she asked in return to him.

    Huang Shuyi honestly shook his head, "You don''t. I don''t see a thing simr in you two."

    Xiang Wai sighed, "And yet, it''s ironic how she is actually my sister."

    Although he had already mentally confirmed it, he still found it shocking when he heard iting from Xiang Wai.

    "Wow!" He didn''t know what else he could say or how else to react. Was there a right way to react to such a thing? He did not think so!

    She squinted her eyes at him and questioned, "But, how do you know her?"

    "Who doesn''t know President Raelle? She is still trending on the inte!"

    Xiang Wai had seen that already. In fact, she had followed that news quite closely. She was always scrolling through trending topics, how could this one escape her eyes when it blew out of proportion already?

    It''s been days and people were still crazy about the discussion of Raelle Xiang dating Shui Xian. She felt quite smug knowing that they weren''t dating. They were MARRIED!

    Of course, if someone checked Xiang Wai''s ounts then they''d know that she had liked each and every photo of Raelle on the inte these days. And she even liked thements that praised her sister. She was subconsciously just bing a sis-con. And she didn''t even realize it.

    "Little Fai is her best friend," told Huang Shuyi. "I was shocked when I first met her and got to know that someone so close to me was actually acquainted with President Raelle."

    Xiang Wai''s interest was piqued when she heard that. "Her best friend?" she repeated. She had heard about that person from her brother as well. And let''s just say, her brother only knew how to shower that guy withpliments. "What kind of a person is he?"

    "Fai?" Xiang Wai nodded her head and Huang Shuyi frowned, "Well, he is a... Kid."

    "Huh?"

    Huang Shuyi nodded his head to confirm that she heard it right. "He is indeed like a kid. Quite innocent if you ask me but at the same time, not that innocent either. However, he is a fun person. And a very warm person as well.. Fai doesn''t even have to try to impress people because him just being there is enough to charm people."

 Chapter 558 - Itâ€™s Official

    Cloe was bored out of her mind at home. She couldn''t even find anything interesting to watch online or on tv. But the thing was, she was just not in the mood. So, nothing seemed interesting enough to her.

    Maybe she was just frustrated. Her idiot boyfriend just ghosted her this week! How dare he! Well, technically it can''t be called ghosting her since he did inform her that he had to make a trip to another city for his work. But she would call it ghosting since she hadn''t seen him since the night they kissed!

    And it was just an innocent kiss that confirmed to her that she wanted to move forward. But that dumbass couldn''t even take the initiative to go further. She didn''t mind taking the initiative but he actually refused to take another step further. Like what the hell?!

    *Ding-Dong!*

    Cloe ced her fifth cup of coffee since the morning on the table and pulled her hair tie from the wrist. She tied her hair in a ponytail and trotted over to open the door.

    A big bouquet of flowers appeared before her eyes and then the bouquet slowly lowered and she looked at the face of the man she had been cursing since morning.

    "Hi!" said Cui Xukun.

    "Are you done ghosting me?" she asked as she crossed her arms before her chest pushing up her breasts. And since she was wearing a flimsy top, it even hiked up a little giving Cui Xukun a peak of her smooth abdomen.

    He gulped and forced himself to just look into her eyes as he asked, "When did I ghost you? Haven''t I been texting you every day? I even reported all my activities to you."

    "Why did you? Did I ask you to do it?"

    Seeing the look on her face, Cui Xukun instantly understood that she was just looking for trouble right now. No matter what he did right now, he''d be the one in the wrong. He didn''t know why it was like that but he felt quite helpless.

    He didn''t wait for her to invite him inside and entered while saying, "Yes, it''s my fault for deciding everything on my own. Next time, it won''t happen. I''m sorry."

    Cloe''s face softened a little when he so readily apologized. However, she wasn''t looking for an apology! She wanted to get some answers!

    "You, what are you up to?" she asked.

    "Huh?" he looked confused. He ced the flower bouquet on the kitchen counter and turned to face her. "Would you like to tell me what have I done?"

    "The thing is, you didn''t even do anything!" she roared in exasperation.

    "And what was I supposed to do?" he asked. He ced his hand on her waist but she tried to squirm out of his grasp. However, he didn''t let her do it. Hugging her waist with one arm, he caressed her face with the back of his hand. "Hm? Tell me, what was I supposed to do?"

    "I kissed you!" she red at him.

    "And I loved it," he grinned at her.

    "And then what? What did you after that? You ran away!"

    Cui Xukun sighed out softly and picked her up, ced her on the kitchen counter. Taking her hands in his own, he looked into her eyes and said, "You think I''m a jerk who ran away or a gentleman who wants to take it slow?"

    "I don''t know," she grumbled.

    "Well, guess what? I''m neither," he told her. "You can''t even understand what you do to me." He took a pause and added, "But you clearly didn''t tell me whether you really want me as your boyfriend or not. Without that confirmation, I can''t be reckless or hasty." His lips reached inches away from her as he whispered, "It''s not like I need to remind you how my body reacted to that one kiss. If I didn''t run away, I knew I won''t be able to hold back."

    "Who asked you to hold back?" she retorted trying to hide her blush. This idiot didn''t even realize that he also had an effect on her.

    Cui Xukun chuckled at her reaction and kissed her forehead, "Does that mean I''m now an official boyfriend?"

    "You''re official from the beginning."

    "No, I wasn''t." He wasn''t blind. He could tell that she was uncertain about their rtionship. She was just casually going with the flow from the moment of their blind date. But now, it didn''t seem like that.

    Cloe wrapped her ars around his neck and then her legs went around his hips pulling him closer. Cui Xukun was stunned by her series of actions. Her lips came close to his ears as she whispered, "Why don''t you try and see if it''s official now or not?" She pressed her lips against his ears, dropping a gentle kiss making his body shudder involuntarily.

    Cui Xukun licked his dry lips and breathed through his mouth, "Are you trying to seduce me right now?"

    "My skills are rusty," she said. "But is it working?" She actually had no confident in her seducing skills. They were non-existent after all. But seeing how his breath was getting ragged was really amusing to her.

    However, she also knew it wasn''t because she was doing a good job. It was solely because Cui Xukun couldn''t contain his excitement having her this close to him. It was indeed like a dream to him. A dream he never thought would be reality.

    Thinking about her n of tying him up with a rope, Cloe bit his chin and traced his lips with her tongue. "How about we take it elsewhere?"

    Cui Xukun hugged her tightly and picked her up, "I''ll take it wherever you want."

    "You better not run away this time!"

    "I wouldn''t dare!"

    Without caring for the fact that it was the middle of the day, two bodies were entangled with each other under the red silk sheets.. Intimate voices echoed throughout the room and made one blush.

 Chapter 559 - Publicity Stunt

    "Bebe, why did you go over to congratte your cousin? She didn''t even invite you to her wedding. You''re just too nice."

    Tang Hebe didn''t take these words to her heart. She had originallye to the resort to have a little reunion with her college friends. Who knew someone would mention that her cousin Tang Ping was getting married here? Although she wasn''t invited, she still went to give her blessings. She could understand why Tang Ping didn''t invite her, their parents had never been on a good term with each other.

    "Bebe, we are so happy to see you back."

    Tang Hebe smiled at her group of friends slightly. But her smile didn''t really reach her eyes. The look in her eyes was dull.

    "It''s such a pity that Xian stopped all contact with us as well after you guys divorced," mentioned a guy, sounding quite regretful.

    Which one of them didn''t want to have a connection with Shui Xian at this point? But Shui Xian had distanced himself in a way that they couldn''t even talk to him anymore. Especially since they all had different paths in life.

    "Don''t talk about Xian in front of Bebe," said a woman in blue as she fixed her hat and red at the man who spoke earlier. "We are here to recall good memories. There is no need to mention Xian here."

    Tang Hebe listened to their conversation but didn''t try to be a part of it in any way.

    "Hey!"

    That shout caught their attention and they looked over to the woman who was leaning against the railing and looking down.

    "Isn''t that Xian?" she pointed in a direction and asked the people around her.

    "Oh? That is him!" another one came to look down and agreed.

    "Why is he with a teenager? No, why is he so intimate with that teenager?"

    Someone knocked on this woman''s head and said, "What teenager? Do you think Xian has such taste?"

    "Who knows?" she grumbled feeling wronged. "Or why else he is hanging around with such a young girl? Don''t tell me he is keeping a sugar baby?"

    Someone with sharp eyes noticed the person with Shui Xian and shuddered. "What sugar baby? Do you even know who she is? She can keep as many sugar babies as she wants to. She doesn''t have to be one!"

    "Mingyan, do you know her?"

    "It''s not like none of you have been paying attention to what''s trending these days," said the guy who was called Mingyan. "That''s President Raelle of the Xiang Congloromerate. I suggest you to think carefully before talking about her. She only looks beautiful. The dangers around her might be your nightmares."

    The woman was displeased to hear that, "Isn''t it just a publicity stunt? Even if they are together, it''s only for business. This President Raelle, what else does she have except for that beautiful face?"

    "She has fortune you can''t have even if you ve for a lifetime. And a reminder, she earned it herself. That''s why I said, think before saying anything about her." His eyes narrowed on that couple on the archery ground as he added, "Even if it''s a publicity stunt, which is impossible. You wouldn''t want to say it out loud."

    Tang Hebe was the only one who still sat on the table andnguidly sipped her milk tea. She didn''t show any reaction to all thismotion and neither did she seem interested in going over to see Shui Xian with his new partner. However, an inexplicable emotion shed in her eyes that was hard to decipher.

    On the green ground, Shui Xian sat on a chair as he looked around. Raelle came to him and sat down on his legs while facing him. Shui Xian had to suck in a deep breath as he said, "Wifey, your intentions are not pure."

    "I know," she replied while she held up his hand and helped him put on a wrist gaurd to protect his wrist. "I''m asking again, you sure want to do this? What if you hurt your hand?"

    Shui Xian brushed his nose with hers and said, "If I hurt my hand, will you not feed me with your own hand? Or you won''t help me put on my clothes?"

    "I don''t know about putting on clothes but I''ll dly help you taking them off."

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched before he threw his head back andughed heartily. He pecked her lips and said, "Don''t tell me you''re gonna do it right here."

    Raelle ced her hand on the back of his neck and rubbed it gently and in a sensual manner making Shui Xian bite the inside of his cheek to stop himself from doing anything reckless here. "Do you want me to?"

    "If you kept ying like this, I won''t even be able to take it back to a room," he pointed out while trying to ignore the feeling her hands brought to him. She truly was a master of fire. Because she definitely knew how to ignite that fire in him out of nowhere!

    Raelle suddenly stood up and said, "I wouldn''t want others to see my exclusive view."

    Oh, great! Now, his naked body was an exclusive view. And it only belonged to Raelle! What a new discovery!

    She put a cap on his head saying, "Don''t let the sun distract you." Then she even passed him the arrows and the bow.

    "My biggest distraction definitely isn''t sun," he told her with a grin.

    "Oh? Then who is?" she asked as if she didn''t know the answer he was about to throw at her.

    "You," he said just as she had expected.

    "Then don''t let me distract you," she said.

    "That isn''t in my control," he said helplessly. "My eyes, my heart, my soul, my everything tends to just follow you around. I have no control over any of that."

    "Oh, poor you!"

    "Right? Poor me! I need somefort. How about a kiss?"

 Chapter 560 - Deal!

    Raelle didn''t give him hisfort kiss. She just pushed the brim of his cap down saying, "You don''t need such afort."

    Shui Xian pouted at her and fixed his cap but suddenly smirked, "Wifey, I feel like taking my clothes off is bing your favorite thing to do."

    "Oh, it''s already at the top of my list," she told him without any hesitation.

    Shui Xian smiled to himself and picked up the bow and took a stance. Thinking of something, he took a bow and aimed it at the target. But because ofck of enough strength, his arrow didn''t even reach the target and he looked regretfully at her, "Wife, it seems I can''t do this either."

    Raelle lowered her bow and looked at him, "Darling, you said the same thing about riding a horse. And from what I saw earlier, you definitely didn''t look as unskilled as you imed to me. After all, you won the bet."

    Shui Xian didn''t even feel embarrassed by her words but the way that ''darling'' rolled out of her tongue made his breath hitch. She usually only called him ''Mr. Husband'', ''Hubby'', or ''Xian''. This was the first time that darling was heard in her pleasantly nd voice. Why was it getting to him so much though?

    He cleared his throat and said, "Baby, can''t you help your poor darling?"

    Raelle walked up to him saying, "Just say you want to stick to me. Why so many excuses?"

    "Well, you know my intentions," he grinned.

    Raelle fixed his posture and helped him in aiming while exining how much strength to use and how much he had to pull back his shoulder. And then he shot the arrow. Seeing how it hit the target, he turned to look at his wife and said, "It seems I always win when you''re around."

    "Mhmm..." was Raelle''s indifferent response.

    Shui Xian shot another arrow and it hit that bullseye. Fishing forpliments, he asked, "Am I doing good?"

    "Very," she replied. "You really are a fast learner."

    Shui Xian kissed her cheek, "I''ve to try harder. I can''t lose my image before my wife now."

    "Mr. Husband, when have you ever been concerned about keeping image and that too before me?"

    Shui Xian feigned a cough, "I always am conscience around you."

    Xiang Wai was leisurely feeling like walking around when she came across them again. Or maybe she had unconsciously looked for them. Or else why would in this huge resort, she''d show up right in front of these two again?

    But she couldn''t be med for it. She was drawn to that expressionless girl who talked however she wanted. Maybe Xiang Wai had always liked people like Raelle who were straightforward. Or else why would she still have Huang Shuyi in her life?

    As she observed their interactions she couldn''t help curling her lips up in amusement. Even if she couldn''t hear anything. Just their physical interaction was enough of a show.

    "Are you sure you both came here for archery and not flirting?" she subconsciously blurted out the question in her mind.

    Both Raelle and Shui Xian looked over at her. She wasn''t standing that far from them but neither was she that close to them.

    "Does it matter?" questioned Raelle in return. "It''s not like you can do either."

    "Wait, was that sarcasm I just heard?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Was it?" was Raelle''s question.

    "Oh, don''t be rhetorical with me right now. You''re clearly jabbing me there."

    "I was being honest," was Raelle''s response. "Can you flirt here? I don''t think so."

    "But I am a very good archer!" Xiang Wai took a defensive stance as if her skills were being questioned right now. Did she look like she couldn''t do it? She was one of the top soldiers in the Special Armed Forces! How could anyone just question her talent?!

    And she definitely couldn''t lose her pride before this teeny-tiny youngdy who was actually younger than her! Wasn''t it shameful to lose her image before her sister?

    "So you are a good archer? But can we just take your words for it?" asked Raelle thoughtfully. "It''s not like we have seen it with our own eyes."

    Shui Xian knitted his brows a little. He could feel that his wife was purposely provoking Xiang Wai right now. But why? That was so not like Raelle. Why would she want to provoke someone? Didn''t she find it troublesome?

    Xiang Wai ran a hand through her short hair handsomely as she closed her eyes to take a deep breath and when she opened her eyes, she walked up to Shui Xian and took his bow from him. "Then I''ll show you how good I am!"

    Raelle made a hand gesture, "The stage is all yours."

    Xiang Wai held up the arrow and checked its string but before she could take an arrow, Raelle spoke up again, "But wouldn''t be boring just like this? How about a bet?"

    Shui Xian was stumped. What had gotten into his wife today? Why was she so into bets out of nowhere? And why would she even want to have a bet with Xiang Wai? Exactly what did she want here? By now, it was clear to him that Raelle''s intention of provoking Xiang Wai was to reach this point. A bet!

    Now, he was curious to know exactly what was at stake here? What could even make Raelle Xiang act out and provoke someone to achieve her goal?

    Xiang Wai squinted at Raelle thoughtfully.

    "Are you scared, Major?"

    Xiang Wai sneered, "I have never been scared in my life."

    Raelle had a lot to say about what she just heard but she knew it wasn''t the time yet. So, she chose to focus on the goal for now, "Then the bet?"

    "What is it?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Both of us will shoot 10 arrows each and whoever wins gets to ask something from the other," suggested Raelle patiently and calmly.

    "Deal!"

 Chapter 561 - A Snack

    Xiang Wai had raised her fist as if looking for a fist bump but Raelle didn''t react. Obviously, she knew what the other woman wanted but did she look like someone who did fist bumps with people? But seeing how Xiang Wai was still holding up her fist, Raelle moved her bow and bumped it lightly with her fist.

    Shui Xian pressed his lips together at seeing this special fist bump. Oh, it was just as special as his Raelle.

    "Who will go first?" asked Xiang Wai as she put down her hand by her side. She was a little disappointed and a bit ufortable at how Raelle refused to even touch her fist with her own. But thinking back to their interaction in the interrogation room where Raelle definitely didn''t like anyone touching her, she lost her disappointment.

    "You can y rock, paper, scissors," suggested Shui Xian from the side.

    "Or we can just toss a coin," added Raelle.

    "Baby, but do you have a coin? Because I certainly don''t have it," said Shui Xian. "And I believe Major here also doesn''t carry coins."

    "That''s true," agreed Xiang Wai with him. She didn''t even carry cash on her, why would she carry coins?

    "Let''s go with rock, paper, scissors then," said Raelle. It was ridiculous but it was a fact that Raelle had never yed this game before. Not even with Hyson. What was the point in ying rock, paper, scissors? So, she just casually threw out a paper and lost because Xiang Wai went for scissors. "You go first."

    Raelle stepped back and watched her attentively. Xiang Wai waspletely serious as she held the bow in her hands. With a predator''s gaze, her eyes locked on the target and she shot her first arrow. And without stopping, she continued to shoot the rest of the arrows.

    Looking at the back of these two sisters, Shui Xian had to say they both exuded confidence and arrogance in their own ways. And yet they both were so different from each other. It was a marvel.

    When Xiang Wai was done shooting, her score was told, "98"

    Xiang Wai was quite satisfied with that. If it had been shooting with guns, she knew she''d have done even better. But no one used arrows these days except for those who had archery as a hobby or those who joinedpetitions. So, it wasn''t every day she''d pick up a longbow.

    But of course, she wouldn''t use that as an excuse if she really lost.

    "Your turn," she said to Raelle.

    Raelle just stood with her bow in hand as she continued to look at the target. In her mind, however, a lot of things were going on. Like calcting the distance, velocity, and stuff. And seeing her like this, Shui Xian''s mind yed an image of how different forms were running in her mind. Like they showed in movies. He was pretty amused by his own thoughts.

    Once Raelle raised her bow, Xiang Wai was left staring. Not a single of her arrow missed the target. Xiang Wai to pick her up and send her to the Olympics! Why was she wasting her talent here? But thinking about how Raelle had more than one talent, she sighed out inwardly.

    "100," said Raelle. "I won."

    Xiang Wai couldn''t possibly deny that. Of course, it was obvious that she won. She obviously wouldn''t ept that in her heart, she was bursting with pride at the thought that this youngdy was her sister and she was amazing!

    Xiang Wai sighed, "Okay. What do you want?"

    Raelle faced Xiang Wai and was about to speak when she heard the ringtone of her phone and turned her head. Anna ran over to her side with her phone saying, "You have a call, Missy."

    Raelle looked at the caller id and took the phone from her. Instead of answering Xiang Wai first, she attended the call saying to Xiang Wai, "Excuse me. Just give me a moment." She took a step away but didn''t really walk away from there.

    From the other side, she heard Hyson''s voice, "Thanks for the ointment."

    "Who are you talking to?" asked Raelle.

    "Oh, my manager!" replied Hyson.

    "And what''s that ointment for? Did you get injured again? Howe I wasn''t informed?"

    Hyson rolled his eyes at her words, "I needed ointment for mosquito bites! Do you know how many mosquitoes there are here? I tell you, a whole lot! I was being a good boy just sitting outside waiting for my scenest night. But as if the mosquito n had a blood debt to collect, they sucked me dry!"

    Xiang Wai pursed her lips. Yes, she could hear Hyson''s voice from her ce. Even Shui Xian could hear it who was even farther from her. Why? Because Hyson was practically yelling out his grievance right now. Xiang Wai was even more surprised by the fact that Raelle didn''t have any reaction to such words.

    "Ellie, I felt so wrong! My precious blood could have been donated to someone in need but it''s wasted on fattening those blood-sucking monsters! How unfair!" He felt like his blood was wasted. Really wasted! What a tragedy it was!

    "Dramatic," was Raelle''s only response to him.

    Of course, he knew he was being dramatic? But who asked Raelle to be so indulgent towards his dramatic antics? And even if he was being dramatic, would he ept it just like that? The answer was clearly, a big fat no!

    "What do you mean by dramatic? I''m serious right now. I had so many mosquito bites that I had been itching sincest night. I felt like I was gonna peel off ayer of my skin. Those bloodsuckers really thought I was a snack or something."

    "Aren''t you one?" asked Raelle in return.

    "Huh?" Hyson was taken aback by her question.

    "Don''t you say you''re a snack? Then why don''t you allow someone to snack on you now?"

 Chapter 562 - Habit Of Lying

    Hyson''s lips twitched at her question. Seriously, his dear best friend never forgets! When did he exactly tell her that he was a snack? A delicious one at that too? He couldn''t even remember the timeline but she did! And she even brought it up at such an asion? Didn''t she see he was suffering?

    "Oh, is that why you love snacking on Xian Ge? He must be your favorite snack these days!" Hyson shot back at her.

    Raelle looked at her husband and who instinctively straightened up before her. Raelle looked him up and down before telling Hyson, "A snack? Nah. He is a full-course meal. Exclusively mine and heavenly delicious."

    Xiang Wai choked on air as she coughed profusely when she heard her brazenment. She said it with such a straight face that she couldn''t believe it. She was shocked. Yes, stunned to the core! But when she looked over at Shui Xian and saw that smile on his lips, she was certain that it wasn''t the first time Raelle talked like this.

    "But one thing you said right," added Raelle. "He is definitely my favorite."

    "I knew it!" said Hyson. "I knew you''d say something like this." Even he was not surprised by her words at all. He was just that used to hearing whatever came to her mind. It had always been like that. "Anyway, I''m calling to tell you that..." he suddenly went quiet and didn''t say anything to her.

    "What?" she asked when he didn''t speak for a while.

    "Nothing. I just wanted toin about the mosquitos," he said but Raelle knew that was an only half-truth.

    "So what? It''s not like I''d start a revenge campaign against those mosquitos?"

    Hyson chuckled at that, "I don''t want revenge. I just wanted to hear your voice."

    "Are you done? You heard my voice already," she pointed out.

    "Wow! How cruel are you really? Can''t you console your best friend for a minute longer?"

    "Scram already!"

    "You too!" said Hyson and wanted to hang up the call.

    But stopped when he heard Raelle''s voice, "Wait."

    Hyson put the phone back against his ear and grumbled, "Now what? Didn''t you tell me to scram?"

    "You can scram after a minute," she replied. "For now, send me the pictures of our ranch."

    "Why?"

    "Because I want it," she replied.

    "Oh, you want to show it to Xian Ge?" he sounded smug. "Now you know the value of pictures? You always told me how pointless photos were."

    "Are you done?" she questioned.

    "I think so."

    "Then do as I said."

    "Consider it done," he told her.

    "Okay then you can scram now," with that she hung up the call without waiting for his answer.

    Raelle turned back to Xiang Wai and said, "Sorry about that." Xiang Wai shook her head indicating she didn''t mind. "So, what I want you to do is..." Xiang Wai raised her brows in anticipation and a bit of anxiousness but Raelle dragged that pause for a dramatic effect making her impatient. "Go home to see grandfather."

    Xiang Wai was shaken once she heard that request from her. Although her face didn''t show it, she was feeling soplicated in her heart. That''s what she wanted? Really? Xiang Wai didn''t know what she was expecting but this was not it!

    On the other hand, Shui Xian''s brain finally clicked. Right! That''s why she started that provocation to get to that bet. The end goal was to make Xiang Wai willingly go to see Grandfather Xiang. He facepalmed himself. How did he not realize it? Obviously, the only connection between these siblings was Grandfather Xiang. Why else would Raelle even go through the trouble of this bet?

    "So, Major? You''re not gonna back out now, are you?"

    Xiang Wai gave her aplicated look, "You''re a really good granddaughter."

    "I don''t need a good granddaughter card from you," said Raelle. "Are you going or not?"

    "I don''t have a habit of backing out," said Xiang Wai. "I''ll go."

    She had pulled out her phone and looked at thest message she exchanged with her brother.

    Ge: [Wai, can youe over today? For dinner with grandfather?]

    Wai: [Ok. I''ll join you.]

    These messages were exchanged before she even found Raelle and Shui Xian at the archery ground. She had a small smile ying on her lips now. Herplicated feelings from earlier were mostly because she was shocked by how her brother and sister asked her for the same thing on the same day.

    As she was leaving, Raelle called out to her from behind, "Major!"

    Xiang Wai stopped and turned to look at her inquisitively.

    "I don''t like people who lie," said Raelle. "Especially the ones who have the habit of lying to themselves."

    Xiang Wai''s brows squeezed together in confusion. She couldn''t understand why Raelle brought this up. As her lips parted to question, Raelle continued,

    "There is nothing wrong with being scared in life. Instead of denying this fear, you should ept that you''re scared. Isn''t it tiring to make constantly remind yourself that you''re not scared? Especially when your biggest fear had always been your biggest weakness?"

    Xiang Wai''s body stiffened. She knew! This thought stunned her to her core. She felt like Raelle just read her inside out and that was definitely scary. She didn''t say anything to her left hurriedly. Was she running from Raelle? No! As always she was running from her fears. Fears thaty bare before Raelle and fears that Xiang Wai didn''t want to confront.

    "For someone who had been in Special Armed Forces for so long, she is pretty delicate,"mented Raelle as she watched her receding back.

    Shui Xian hugged her shoulder and kissed the top of her head, "All that just to make her go home to see Opa?"

    "But she agreed, didn''t she?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian rubbed the side of his face against her hair as he continued, "Yeah. She agreed.. That''s all that matters, I guess."

 Chapter 563 - Cute Little Demon

    After hanging up the call with Raelle, Hyson had a helpless smile on his face but that hint of worry between his brows couldn''t be overlooked. He continued to stare at his phone screen even though the phone call had long ended. That uneasy feeling in his heart was really bothering him since this morning.

    Taking a deep breath, he took the ointment from the side that his manager gave him earlier and unscrewed the cap. He wasn''t lying to Raelle when he said that mosquitoes yed him wellst night. Looking at his forearm littered with mosquito bites, he pouted unhappily. These mosquito bites on his fair skin really didn''t look good.

    He was always such a good boy. Why did he have to suffer through this torture?

    Everyone on the set was having a snack break, so Hyson took this time to close his eyes wearing his earphones. The soothing voice of his voice rang into his ears making his heart settle back a little. One couldn''t possibly imagine the amount of gratitude he had towards Shui Xian for giving him such a gift. He had specifically gotten the video converted into audio and saved it into his phone.

    These days whenever he was down, he''d just listen to his mom''s voice. It had a calming effect. Just like when he used toy down in herp and act spoiled with her. Just like she was warm and gave him afortable feeling, her voice had the same magic to it. Perhaps, that''s the magic mothers were supposed to have.

    "Hi!"

    Hyson felt someone tapping on his shoulder and opened his eyes to look at Sora. She waved at him with a smile and sat down beside him. Hyson pulled out his earphones and sat up straight.

    "Is everything okay?" asked Sora.

    "Yes," he answered.

    "You look distracted," she pointed out.

    Hyson shook his head, "I was a bit distracted. But now I''m fine." Now, he had already heard Raelle''s voice, so he wasn''t that lost in hisst night''s dream. It was just a dream anyway. He shouldn''t be thinking about it all that much.

    "You should go back to the hotel to rest for today," said Sora. "I heard from your manager that you had a feverst night."

    Hyson shook his head, "It wasn''t really a fever. She was just overreacting." His body temperature was just higher than normal. It definitely wasn''t a fever. But his manager didn''t think so.

    "Anyway, you don''t have any scene for today," stated Sora. "You should just go back and rest."

    Hyson was originally hesitating but then he thought of something and nodded. Since he decided to go back to rest, he didn''t sit here any longer. After saying goodbye to Sora, he got up to leave. The hotel wasn''t that far from the shooting set. He arrived within 15 minutes. Going straight to his room, he connected his phone to the portable speaker and yed the same recording of his mother''s voice again.

    Then he turned on hisptop and searched through the piles of photos he had collected over the years. And finally found the ones Raelle had asked for. He sent the photos to her and his mission was aplished. Of course, he only chose toe back so soon because he had to do what Raelle had said.

    While holding his phone, he came to the balcony and sat down on the chair. He was scrolling through his WeChat and came across Huang Shuyi''s post. In the photo, he was having lunch with ady. But there were two things that caught Hyson''s attention. The first one was thedy he was eating with. Wasn''t she the one he bumped into the other day? Of course, his memory wasn''t that bad to forget her already.

    Even more surprising was seeing Raelle and Shui Xian in the background. Even though it was just their side profiles, Hyson still recognized them. He shook his head at how small the world was.

    *Ring!*

    Hyson was annoyed to see who was calling him and didn''t want to pick up but he still gave in. He took his sweet time but he still picked up the call.

    "What is it?"

    "How are you, little Fai?"

    "Who are you to call me little Fai? Call my name properly!"

    Zhai Yanjun didn''t pay heed to his temper. In his life, Hyson had suddenly taken the ce of a kitten. And he loved teasing this kitten whenever he could.

    "Hey! I''m asking about your health?"

    "Even if I''m dead what does that have to do with you?"

    "Why say such unlucky things? You have to live for at least a hundred years. So, that I can keep annoying you!"

    Hyson snorted, "Do you anything important to say?"

    "Yes," replied Zhai Yanjun in amusement. "Guess where I am?"

    Hyson didn''t even have to think before he said, "You came to stick to my mother and called me to show off? What are you a 3 year old? Why do you love this petty game anyway?"

    Zhai Yanjun was having fun listening to Hyson''s sour tone, "Oh, because I love it when you act like this." He took a pause and added, "Besides, I have to take advantage of your absence and steal my Ayi from you."

    Hyson sneered, "That''s my mum! She will always be mine! Why don''t you go and bother yours?!"

    Zhai Yanjun went quiet when he heard that. Hyson also pressed his lips together when he realized what he said. Even though he didn''t know much about Zhai Yanjun''s family situation, he did know that he didn''t have a good rtionship with his mother.

    "Right," sighed Zhai Yanjun after a moment of silence. "Why don''t I go bother my own mother? Well, I guess it''s because I like yours more."

    "Shameless!"

    "I''m learning it from you!"

    "The effort you have been putting in to annoy me," started Hyson. "If you had used even half of it on your ex-girlfriend, you''d have been married already and would be living a happy life. Instead of looking like a sad ghost!"

    "Can you speak nicely?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "I have nothing nice to say to you," retorted Hyson. "And am I wrong? Put your hand on your heart and say you did your best to save that rtionship? Can you do it?"

    "I so want to squish you right now!"

    "Why?"

    "Because I can''t bring myself to beat you little cute demon!"

    "Well, guess what? I have no such scruples about you. Since you are not cute at all!"

    If someone asked Zhai Yanjun why he was having this pointless argument, he''d just happily say that he was enjoying it. He seemed to have be fond of quibbling with Hyson and everytime, he felt like they were getting close.. This cute little demon was exactly what he needed in his life right now.

 Chapter 564 - Different Things

    Back at the resort, Raelle had already noticed that Shui Xian seemed to be getting calls for thest ten minutes but he kept ignoring all the calls.

    "Work?"

    Shui Xian looked into her eyes and nodded his head.

    "Then just take the call," she told him.

    Shui Xian wanted to say that he didn''t want to but he knew his wife. She would never let him ignore his work. Others had problems that their wives got angry when they talked about work on their dates, his wife... Sigh! She was just differently wired. Yes, he should just keep reminding himself.

    "I''ll just go get you something to drink, you can take the call," Raelle even chose to give him privacy to allow him to concentrate on important matters.

    Raelle looked around, not knowing what to buy and where exactly to even buy it?

    At this moment, her capable bodyguard came over and whispered, "Missy, there is a caf¨¦ on the second floor. Maybe you can check their menu?"

    Raelle nodded, "Okay! Let''s go then." She took the elevator and went to the second floor. She found the caf¨¦, Anna spoke of and entered it. But once she stood before the cash counter to order, she paused.

    "Hello, what would you like to order?" asked the girl who manned the cash counter.

    Raelle looked at the screen that disyed their menu and went quiet. Usually, she would always order the very same thing to drink but her husband had forbidden her from ordering the same coffee every single time. He wanted her to try different things and in this case, different vors. Not because he wanted her to change but simply because he wanted her to experience everything around her.

    She randomly pointed at a drink on the screen and said, "This! I want this." Then she pointed the drink right beside it and added, "And this one too."

    "One Banana milk coffee and one Creamy iced coffee, that''s all?" asked the girl on the cash counter keeping her polite smile on.

    Raelle nodded her head, "Yes, that''s all."

    "How would you like to pay? Cash, card, or phone?" asked the girl.

    "Card," said Raelle and pulled out her Diamond card that made even the girl''s eyes widen in surprise a little. She had just started her summer vacation and picked up this job. Who knew she''d be seeing this kind of a card in the first week of her job? How strange were these wealthy people?

    Raelle received her receipt and her credit card back as she heard the girl say, "Please wait for a moment. Your order will be ready soon."

    "Okay," said Raelle and found an empty seat to sit down to wait.

    "Xiaoxiao, don''t run so fast!"

    Raelle could hear the voice of a woman calling out a little kid. As for why she knew it was a kid without seeing? Because she could also hear the sound of giggles of a naughty kid who kept running in the caf¨¦ giving his mother a headache.

    "Ah!"

    Suddenly, the kid ran into someone and fell on his butt. He pouted before started wailing. Raelle had to zone out everything around her to not let that loud wailing get to her head. From the moment of her second kidnapping, she didn''t like crying kids. She had seen plenty of those, tied together with her in that cage. She didn''t want to see anymore.

    "Oh, I''m sorry! I''m so sorry!" the kid''s mother was saying to the woman whom her son had bumped into. The woman''s dress was stained with oil since the kid''s hands were stained. The mother picked up her son but hit him saying, "Didn''t I tell you not to run around? Look what happened now!"

    The woman first stood where she was before she crouched down and stopped that mother from hitting her son. She smiledfortingly at her and said, "It''s okay. You don''t have to hit him." She held the shoulders of the kid and made him look at her, "Are you hurt?"

    The kid looked at her kind smile and his wailing turned into sobs. He sniffled and shook his head, "It doesn''t hurt."

    "It might not hurt this time but you can''t be certain about the future." She rubbed his fluffy head and added, "Don''t run around again. And listen to your mom."

    The kid couldn''t help but listen to the woman and even nod his head obediently. Even his mother was surprised by this turn of events.

    The mother was even more ashamed and she said, "How about I pay for dry cleaning?" Then she frowned, "But this stain might not go away even after dry cleaning."

    "Don''t worry about it," said the woman. "It isn''t that expensive."

    The mother choked when she heard that. As a woman, how could she not know the value of the dress? It was from the limited collection of an international brand. Money was not enough to buy it. But the kind woman didn''t take it to heart.

    Raelle had watched all of this from where she sat. She wasn''t that far, to begin with so she heard their interaction as well. Her eyes lingered on the face of that woman before she went to collect her drinks.

    The woman also stood before the counter to order and the cashier girl was saying, "Miss, this is your sixth coffee. Are you sure you should be having this much?"

    "Oh, it''s like fuel to me," said the woman. "I can''t seem to operate without it."

    The cahsier girl chuckled softly, "You''re paying with phone again?"

    The woman nodded and scanned the code to pay. She turned and that''s when she looked at Raelle who was taking her drinks and turned to leave. Her eyes narrowed in thought once she looked at Raelle''s face and she paused.

    "President Raelle?" she called out uncertainly.

    Raelle stopped to look at her and replied, "Yes?"

    The woman was stunned once Raelle''s clear but nk eyes stared straight into her own.

 Chapter 565 - Saying Hi

    Since the time Tang Hebe came to join her old friends, she had indeed drank too many cups of coffee to keep herself going. It was only because one of her friends saw how she was only pouring down coffee down her throat that she bought him a milk tea. And even though Tang Hebe did enjoy the milk tea but it was too sweet for her liking and it was definitely not coffee!

    So, right after that, she came to get another cup of coffee to remove the taste of milk tea from her mouth. She already knew she was kind of addicted to coffee but it couldn''t be helped now.

    Out of all the ces, she definitely didn''t think she''d run into Raelle here. And at first, she didn''t want to but she couldn''t help calling out to her.

    "Missy, let me hold that for you."

    Tang Hebe looked at the person who came over to stand beside Raelle to take those two cups from her hand.

    "Oh, but I can carry it," was Raelle saying to that woman.

    "But that doesn''t mean you have to," replied anotherdy from her other side.

    Raelle didn''t say anything and passed them the cups and then she turned her attention back to Tang Hebe. Of course, she didn''t recognize her. After all, she had never seen her face before. In fact, it could be said that Raelle had never even taken Shui Xian''s first wife that seriously to consider learning more about her.

    "Do you know me?" asked Raelle.

    Tang Hebe smiled at that, "I think anyone who pays attention to the news these days would know who you are."

    "Can''t argue with that," said Raelle. Even she knew how heated the conversation online was. But the good thing was she had already asked her PR team to get rid of this discussion. This much heat was enough. She didn''t want any more unwanted attention than she was already receiving. "But is there anything you have to say to me?"

    Tang Hebe shook her head, "Not really. I just wanted to say hi."

    "That''s all?" asked Raelle.

    Tang Hebe nodded in reply, "It''s not every day you''d run into President Raelle just so randomly buying coffee. I thought I should take advantage of this moment and show you my face."

    "Show me your face?" repeated Raelle in interest.

    Tang Hebe hummed softly, "I heard President Raelle has an impable memory. You won''t forget once you see someone. So, I should be doing everything to show you my face. Who knows I might need your help in the future?"

    "But perhaps you don''t know that I have another talent," told Raelle. "I can easily delete people from my memory."

    Tang Hebe''s smile broadened as she shook her head, "Something tells me, you won''t be forgetting me." She held out her hand, "It''s a pleasure to meet you."

    Raelle didn''t take her hand but said, "I believe you didn''t introduce yourself. If you want me to remember you, I should at least know whom I''m giving space in my memory."

    "Tang Hebe."

    Raelle pulled up the corners of her lips into one of her what she considered to be a polite smile as she said, "Oh, then it''s definitely nice meeting you." She looked at her hand that Tang Hebe hadn''t pulled back and said, "No offense but I don''t like touching strangers."

    Only then did Tang Hebe take her hand back and smile in understanding, "I understand. Hope I''ll be seeing you again. If you don''t mind?"

    "If we are in the same city, it''s inevitable that we''d run into each other," said Raelle. "See you again, Miss Tang. Have a good day!"

    Tang Hebe looked at her back as she strode out of there and nodded her head. "She knows," she mumbled to herself. She was actually surprised at how calm Raelle was. Even if she knew she was Shui Xian''s ex-wife, Raelle didn''t react. She was pretty chill and easygoing.

    She didn''t know what Raelle actually knew about her. Even if she didn''t recognize her face, she did recognize her name. That meant she knew at least something about her. But then again, Shui Xian couldn''t possibly hide his first marriage.

    It could be considered quite a pleasant meeting between an ex-wife and the current wife. If anything it had to be one of the most peaceful meetings ever! They were both civilized, educated, and sessful women. There was no reason for them to be at each other''s throats.

    Tang Hebe had a pleasant smile on her face when she went back to join her group of friends with a cup of coffee. She wasn''t lying when she told Raelle that she just wanted to say hi. She indeed just wanted to say hi to her. And it had nothing to do with Shui Xian. But others didn''t need to know that for now.

    As Raelle walked out of there, she turned to Anna and said, "Should I start using mobile payment?"

    "It''s not necessary," replied Anna tactfully. After all, just how many times did Raelle even buy anything for herself? Whatever she needed was bought by the people around her. She hardly had the need to even pull out her card to swipe.

    "But everyone is using it now," Raelle pointed out.

    "Just because everyone is using it, you don''t have to," said Hailey from the other side. "After all, Missy is always special. How can you follow other people?"

    "Why do I think you both are trying to coax me like a kid?" asked Raelle.

    Both Anna and Hailey''s eyes opened wide.

    "Forget it," said Raelle.

    They were happy that she dropped the topic. But then again, Raelle didn''t like troublesome things and that''s why she never carried cash on her person. Even if she carried her phone with her, it was only like a duty. She still found her phone to be quite troublesome.. It was still better to just let the people around her pay.

 Chapter 566 - Princess & Knight

    It could be seen easily that Raelle didn''t take meeting Tang Hebe seriously. She''d never dwell over such a thing.

    Shui Xian was about to go look for her when she came back and took back the two cups from Anna and Hailey. "I bought you something to drink."

    Shui Xian looked at the two drinks in her hands and asked, "Which one is mine?"

    "You can just take whichever one you want," she told him.

    Shui Xian took the iced coffee and took a sip saying, "Oh, it''s sweet just like you."

    "I didn''t make it," said Raelle. "So, you don''t have topliment me."

    "But everything my wife touches turn sweeter," he gushed shamelessly. Thinking of something, he frowned and asked, "What took you so long though?"

    "Nothing," replied Raelle as she took a sip of her own drink. "I just ran into Miss Tang Hebe. That''s why it took longer than expected."

    Shui Xian''s eyebrows screwed together, "Tang Hebe?"

    "Hm," she responded. "It''s the same one you have in mind."

    "Oh," was all he said.

    Raelle noticed his pretty nd response and asked, "Aren''t you curious about what she said to me?"

    "Nope," was his answer.

    "Oh? Then what if she told me how much of a cruel person you are, who tortured her, and in the end, she had no other choice but to let go of her first love?" Raelle took a pause and added, "Or what if she told me how I''ve ruined everything by marrying you since she had never stopped loving you and wanted to get back into your life?"

    "She said nothing of that sort to you," Shui Xian pinched her cheek lovingly. "Stop using these plotlines on me. It''s my life. Not a novel. How dramatic can it possibly be?"

    "Hyson says life is pretty dramatic," said Raelle. She looked at him and asked, "So, you have so much trust in her that you really believe she didn''t say anything bad about you?"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "She can say all the bad things she wants. I won''t stop her. But I have faith in my wife. My darling wife already knows me well to know what to believe and what not to believe. And the fact that you always have your opinions in life is what I adore about you. Even if I do something wrong, I''m sure you''d firste to me to ask about it rather than blindly following what others said."

    "My Opa used to say, ''My Yenay isn''t born to be a follower.'' And I agree with that," she told him.

    Shui Xian rubbed her head and smiled at her, "Indeed, you''re the Queen. People should follow you. You have no reason to follow anyone."

    "But I can follow you," said Raelle as she held his arm. "Since you''re my King."

    Shui Xian pressed his lips together and gave her a helpless look. "It''s getting too sweet. But I love it." He knew she had intentionally mentioned that because of the phone covers that he designed for them. "But at the end of the day, I''m also my Queen''s loyal follower. I''ll go wherever you want me to."

    Thinking of something, she pulled out her phone and showed the photos that she just received from Hyson to Shui Xian. "Come, I''ll show you my ranch."

    Shui Xian took her to sit down and look at the photos. The green grasnd was a sight to see. Even the equestrian club they were at earlier couldn''tpare to this. And rather than a specific track, it seemed that the ranch was like a free-range space where they could gallop on horses however they wanted to.

    "This is my horse," Raelle showed him the photo of her horse. Shui Xian looked at the pure white horse with a gorgeous mane and was impressed.

    "What''s its name?"

    "Knight," answered Raelle. Then she moved to another picture and said, "This belongs to Hyson. It''s called Princess."

    Shui Xian looked at that ck and white horse and couldn''t help asking, "Isn''t this a stallion?"

    "It is," Raelle confirmed it for him. "But don''t ask why Hyson gave him favorite horse a feminine name. ording to him, since he was called the little prince, he should have a little princess."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips to hold back hisughter. He shouldn''t even be surprised by this. You could expect everything and anything from Hyson. He was just that kind of a goofball.

    "Let me guess, he is the one who named your mare as a ''Knight''?"

    Raelle nodded her head, "Yup."

    "Aiyo, he really is a kid. It worries me now," he couldn''t help sighing. "It seems I have to take better care of him in the future."

    Raelle looked at him, "Why do you have to take care of him?"

    "Because I want to," he replied. But he didn''t tell her that it was because he didn''t want her to worry about Hyson. Although it didn''t seem like Raelle did, however, by now he knew her way of worrying about him was different.

    "Is he doing well there?" he asked her in concern.

    "He only looks delicate," said Raelle. "You should really not worry about him. It''s true that he likes to whine but he only does to me. You''d never see himining about anything to even Yue."

    "He is a filial son,"mented Shui Xian. "He just doesn''t want to worry his mother. But with you, he feels like you''re just another part of him and he has to share everything even if it''s just a mosquito bite, he has to let you know."

    Shui Xian suddenly felt his phone vibrate and found that Hyson sent him something as well. He opened the message and was stunned for a moment. In the photo, Raelle stood beside her white horse s in her white pants and red shirt with those ck ankle boots. Her hair was in a braid as she held a whip and a hat. She wasn''t looking at the camera, instead, her attention was all on the horse.

    Shui Xian had a silly smile on his face when he realized how Raelle and her horse had the same temperament. Both looked noble and both looked superior!

    Hyson: [No need for a thank you!]

    Shui Xian chuckled to himself. Silly kid! Really, Hyson was nothing but a silly kid!

 Chapter 567 - Teachers

    It was needless to say that Yue Yue was over the moon to see Zhai Yanjuning to visit her. She was actually getting a bit envious of how Mu Chenyan kept gushing over Xiang Weimin who clearly just came to visit for the very first time. It was even the first time Yue Yue saw him in person. So, when her own favorite nephew came over, she was really happy.

    Seeing her enthusiasm, even Zhai Yanjun was taken aback. But he actually didn''t know that Xiang Weimin was here since Yue Yue took him to the second living room and not the one where Grandfather Xiang sat with Xiang Weimin.

    And then she also happily went to show off in front of Mu Chenyan who had been prancing around her for hours. If anyone knew about this petty fight between these best friends they''d want to facepalm. After all, it seemed these two really had way too much time on their hands.

    "Ayi, I''m so happy to see you!" Zhai Yanjun hugged Yue Yue tightly once she sat down beside him.

    Yue patted his head lovingly and then opened her text to speech software and typed, ''I''m also very happy to see you.''

    Zhai Yanjun was content just simply basking in the love and care that he got from Yue Yue. And more than anything, the attention she gave him was addictive. He couldn''t stop himself froming to her again and again because she gave him what he had been craving for years; care.

    ''Are you eating well?'' questioned Yue but pinched his face in dissatisfaction. ''Why do I think you''re getting weak? Don''t they serve good meals in the army?''

    Zhai Yanjun gave her a helpless smile, "Ayi, meals are very good. I just haven''t been eating well these days."

    Yue looked at him in concern, ''Why? What happened? Why aren''t you taking care of your health? Is something bothering you? Even if something is bothering you, you shouldn''t ignore your health. How will you deal with whatever it is if you get sick? Health is the real wealth! And the food is indispensable!''

    Zhai Yanjun didn''t know whether tough or cry right now. Her long list of questioning really seemed annoying but he was feeling sweet inside. Hardly anyone cared about his health this much.

    Thinking about something, Yue added, ''How about I send you meals from now on? It isn''t a hassle. I''ll pack a food box, there are so many people here. Anyone will bring it for you.''

    Zhai Yanjun was taken aback by her suggestion and shook his head, "Ayi, there is no need for that. I just had something on my mind and that''s why I didn''t eat well. The food at the barracks isn''t as bad as you think." What he didn''t tell her was that from thest time he talked to Shui Xian right in this house, all he had been thinking about was Xiang Wai.

    And just because of all thoseplicated thoughts in his mind, he didn''t have the mood to eat anything. He could barely swallow a couple of mouthfuls and it was also one of the reasons he decided to run over to see Yue Yue as soon as he got the chance. Since there was no mission going on right now, it was easier for him to find time to sneak out of the barracks ande to her side.

    He could see that Yue Yue was already distressed just knowing that he wasn''t able to eat well these days. He didn''t want to add more to her worries by exining about hisplicated love life. Or as everyone around him put it, it was never a love life, to begin with!

    "Oh, Yanjun! Hi!"

    Mu Chenyan waved at him from the door and looked at Yue, "You! Who said she''ll help me with dinner?"

    "Should I help?" questioned Zhai Yanjun.

    "Can you?" Mu Chenyan eyed him with distrust.

    Zhai Yanjun didn''t mind herck of trust in him, "There is no harm in learning, no?"

    "Oh, since you have that kind of intention, I can''t stop you," grinned Mu Chenyan. "Come on!"

    Yue held his wrist and stopped him. She turned to Mu Chenyan and used her signnguage to say, ''What are you doing? Don''t drag him into this.''

    "He''s clearly the one who wants to help," Mu Chenyan pointed out, appearing very innocent.

    Before Yue could add something, Zhai Yanjun spoke up, "Ayi, it''s me who wants to learn. And I think you both are an excellent choice for being my teacher."

    "You''vee to the right person," Mu Chenyan patted his shoulder. "I''ll teach you in no time and trust me, you''ll be able to capture any girl with your skills." Oh, if only she knew which girl he was nning on capturing with these skills.

    Zhai Yanjun gave her a sweet smile and instantly followed them to the kitchen. He put on an apron and asked, "So, what should I do?"

    "Apprentices should start from the bottom," said Mu Chenyan seriously. "For now, you''re the errand guy! Wash the vegetables first."

    Yue red at her, ''All the vegetables are washed once they are brought to the kitchen.''

    "There is no harm in washing twice!" said Mu Chenyan. "What are you looking at? Get to work!"

    Zhai Yanjun gave her a proper salute, "Yes, Sir!"

    "Don''t change my gender now," said Mu Chenyan.

    Zhai Yanjun pursed his lips, "Okay." He couldn''t just tell her that she scared him more than hismander did back when he was just a rookie in the army.

    However, none of that mattered. He patiently and diligently washed the vegetables for her. Noints at all.

    *Ding-Dong!*

    "Oh, who is at the door now?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Why did I have to give a holiday to all the house helpers today of all days?"

    "I''ll check it," said Zhai Yanjun. "That''s what errand boys do. Master should just work."

    Mu Chenyan gave him a appreciative look, "I like this boy.. He knows what he should do."

 Chapter 568 - See A Doctor

    Xiang Wai was actually feeling just as nervous as her brother when she rang the doorbell. She didn''t even know why she was feeling so jittery. She clearly knew her brother was inside. If nothing else, he had always been her biggest support. How could she feel so nervous? But she was!

    And when the door opened, she was stunned to see the person before her. And Zhai Yanjun was no less surprised to see that it was Xiang Wai at the door. That was unexpected. He looked at her intently from the top of her head to the tip of her toes. She looked quite beautiful and his lips curled up in a smile.

    It wasn''t every day you''d see Xiang Wai dressed up like this.

    Xiang Wai on the other hand narrowed her eyes at him. He was wearing that cute apron that made him look... Well, not handsome for sure. It gave off a cutesy vibe and let''s just say, the cute word didn''t go well with Zhai Yanjun''s looks. Not at all. He kind of looked funny but she wasn''t gonnaugh right now since she had way too many questions in her mind right now regarding why he was even here?

    "Are you stalking me now?" Well, she didn''t actually have such a high opinion of herself to believe that he was really here for her. But that question just came out before she could stop herself.

    Zhai Yanjun gave her an amused look, "Am I? But I clearly came here first. That means you''re stalking me instead."

    "Ha! Such wishful thinking, Captain?"

    "Major, if you''re the stalker, I won''t mind."

    Xiang Wai was taken aback by hisment. Why did it sound so suggestive? And what''s up with him? Why was he acting so weird? Or maybe she was overthinking?

    "Aren''t you gonnae in, Major?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "I am!" retorted Xiang Wai and stepped inside while purposely bumping into his shoulder. "Oops, sorry! I didn''t see you there."

    "It''s okay," said Zhai Yanjun while closing the door. "I guess you must be tired of looking at ONLY me after all these years." Xiang Wai stopped in her track and felt strange. While it was true that in the past decade, she hardly saw anyone else other than him, what exactly did he mean by that? He walked past her saying, "I don''t mind being invisible for the meantime."

    At this time, Zhai Yanjun didn''t even think it''d be wrong for Xiang Wai to even treat him like air.

    "Yo! Your brain is damaged or what?" asked Xiang Wai curiously.

    "It''s not my brain," he told her. "It''s my heart, that''s damaged."

    Xiang Wai''s veins twitched at his answer. "I feel like punching you right now."

    "There is no need to get physical," he remarked.

    "Hey! Scared?"

    Zhai Yanjun looked straight at her and nodded, "Yes, I am scared. After all, Major, I''m just a Captain. How can I go against you? It''d be a losing fight."

    "Yourck of ambition is disdainful!" said Xiang Wai with displeasure.

    "I have always been just that unambitious in life," he said to her. "But it''s you, Major who couldn''t see it because you had that blindfold of love on your eyes. Now, that you took it off, you can see me for who I am. And as you can see, I wasn''t all that great of a person. Definitely not the one who deserved your love."

    Xiang Wai''s breath went stagnant as she looked straight into his eyes. She could tell something was wrong here but she couldn''t put her finger on it. Why was he talking like this? And why was it making her heart so uneasy? Didn''t she decide to just leave him in her past?

    But how was she supposed to do that when he just popped before her eyes like this?

    "You should see a doctor," suggested Xiang Wai.

    "Oh, will you apany me?"

    "Why should I?" she shot back. "Who are you to me?"

    "Well, technically Major, I''m your junior and you''re my superior. As my superior, you should show some concern for my health."

    Xiang Wai gave him a dryugh, "You''re not even funny, Captain."

    "See! Now, you''re really seeing me for who I am," said Zhai Yanjun.

    Xiang Wai suddenly held his cor and pushed him against the wall, "Captain, what are you up to? What''s with this strange talk? Why am I unable to understand it? What are you even trying to do?"

    "I see your nervousness is all gone now," said Zhai Yanjun with a smile. Not even minding their position right now where he was clearly at a disadvantage. "You shouldn''t be nervous to begin with. Your grandfather is amazing. He only looks fierce but he is a softie inside."

    Xiang Wai''s grasp on his cor loosened when he said that. Yes, she was nervous but how did he know that?

    As if reading her mind, he added, "Major, you''re making me feel like an utter failure now. Yes, I''m a failure but that doesn''t mean I''m blind enough to not know when you''re nervous." He held up her hand showed her the thumb saying, "You always scratch your thumb until it''s bleeding when you''re extremely nervous. And it''s funny how not many things can make your nervous in life."

    Xiang Wai looked at her thumb and true enough, it was close to bleeding now. Great! She didn''t realize her nervousness level was so high.

    "Just be yourself," said Zhai Yanjun. "He''ll like you."

    Xiang Wai scoffed at that, "How can you say that?"

    "Because I certainly liked the real you," he replied and started walked away.

    "Yo, errand boy! I told you open the door! Did youe out toze around? Is that how you''re gonna learn? What is this attitude? And where is the sincerity?" Mu Chenyan came out of the kitchen with a rolling pin in her hand while Yue was holding her arm trying to hold her back but to no avail.

 Chapter 569 - Im Like Her

    Seeing that very familiar rolling pin in Mu Chenyan''s hands, Zhai Yanjun''s eyes went round. He still hadn''t forgotten how Mu Chenyan wanted to murder him with that same rolling pin when he first came here. And it was because he dared to not show up for a blind date with Raelle. How could he not have a deep impression of this ''murder weapon''? It was fortunate that his aunt Yue saved his life back then.

    Instinctively, he clutched Xiang Wai''s arms and hid behind her swiftly. What dignity as a man? Could he eat? No! He was helpless before Mu Chenyan! Why would he even want to jump into this pit of fire? His life was more important than anything. But looking at the back of Xiang Wai''s head, he seemed to have thought of something. Last time, Mu Chenyan was breathing fire just because he dared to ditch a blind date with her niece. What would happen if she got to know that he dated her other niece, Xiang Wai for a decade but couldn''t love her the way she deserved to be loved?

    Would she make a stew of him?

    The thought made him turn cold and shudder in fear.

    Noticing his movement, Xiang Wai was also taken aback and asked, "What are you doing?"

    "Hiding," he replied matter-of-factly. Wasn''t it obvious?

    "But why?" she asked further in confusion.

    "Your aunt is scary," was his response as if it was a fact known to all. He wasn''t ashamed to say he was scared of her. Don''t think he didn''t know that even Shui Xian was scared of Mu Chenyan?

    On the other hand, Mu Chenyan''s body had frozen from the moment her eyes caught sight of Xiang Wai in the hallway. Her eyes widened into a saucer and she forgot how to react. She tried to grin at her in a weing manner but it was a horrible sight. Because the earlier aggression between her brows had yet to dissipate and adding on that grin, it looked kind of creepy. Especially when one looked at that ''weapon'' she held in her hand.

    When Mu Chenyan realized that she was still holding the rolling pin, she hurriedly shoved it into her best friend''s hands saying, "Dear Yue, how can run around the house with that in hand? What if it hurt someone?" And she even added a dryugh at the end of her sentence.

    Yue was left staring at her in bafflement. Was she the one running around with this stupid weapon?!

    Mu Chenyan chose to ignore her best friend''s look of discontent for now. Friends should cover for each other. She looked back at Xiang Wai who was also looking at her intently and stood straight as she waved both her hands, "Hi!" Yue rolled her eyes at her foolish act. What was this hi? For the first time, she knew what a disappointment her best friend was. The sight even stung her poor eyes! But she couldn''t just abandon this fool of a friend either.

    She stood in front of Mu Chenyan and looked right into her eyes as she mouthed, ''Breathe. Take a deep breath. Rx.''

    Mu Chenyan subconsciously followed her lead and took deep breaths to calm down. It helped a little. So, she cleared her throat and walked over to Xiang Wai, "What a pleasant surprise to see you here, Wai... Xiang Wai... Xiao Wai?"

    Zhai Yanjun''s lips twitched at how conflicted she looked at what to call her own niece but he decided not toment on that. Instead, he pushed Xiang Wai, "Major, say hi to your aunt!"

    Xiang Wai gave him a re but still looked at Mu Chenyan and greeted her, "Hello!"

    Mu Chenyan turned her discontent towards Zhai Yanjun, "Oi! Why didn''t you take the guest to the living room?"

    "I was about to," answered Zhai Yanjun like he was facing his disciplinemander.

    "How can you make her stand here for so long?"

    Yue walked over and pinched Mu Chenyan. Then she looked at Zhai Yanjun and Xiang Wai with a gentle smile that looked like they were being graced with warmth. She used her signnguage to say something but Mu Chenyan was lost as she was still looking at Xiang Wai''s face in a daze.

    Before Yue could pinch her to get her attention, Xiang Wai spoke to her, "She is saying, you should take me to see my grandfather."

    Yue looked at Xiang Wai in surprise while Zhai Yanjun wasn''t that surprised and nodded, "Right. But isn''t he with a guest? Is it alright to take her there?"

    As for why he wasn''t surprised at how Xiang Wai knew signnguage? Wasn''t it obvious? She was part of the Special Armed Forces. Their missions were quite different than the regr soldiers. He was clear about the time when Xiang Wai had to y the role of a deaf and mute for a mission and that''s when she learned signnguage.

    Yue looked at her nephew and nodded her head.

    "Yes, yes! Don''t just stand there. Elder Xiang will be so happy to see you here," added Mu Chenyan once she came back to her senses. "Errand boy!"

    Zhai Yanjun''s spine chilled when she called him like that from behind. "Yes?"

    "Lead the way for my niece. But thene back to work!"

    "Yes, I will!" answered Zhai Yanjun as he led Xiang Wai to the living room. "I have never seen someone changing their faces as fast as her," whispered Zhai Yanjun once he was out of earshot. He leaned closer to Xiang Wai and added, "Let me tell you a secret. Your aunt is a gangster!"

    "Is that a secret?" asked Xiang Wai.

    Zhai Yanjun looked at her and sighed, "Not so very much." He suddenly thought of something and looked at her intently, "In fact, she is a lot like you."

    Xiang Wai stopped to look at him and shook her head, "She isn''t like me.. I''m like her."

 Chapter 570 - Runs In Blood

    Yue smacked Mu Chenyan''s head, ''Why does your IQ drop at times like these? You aren''t even like this in front of Raelle. And let''s face it, standing before Raelle is more nerve-wracking!''

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her head as she said, "What nerve-wracking? Yes, she gives off a very strong pressure but at the end of the day, my Elle is a cutie! And my IQ is not dropping at all." She refused to admit that her brain froze twice in the same day. Once when she faced Xiang Weimin and now that she faced Xiang Wai. She was so confused about what to even say.

    As they walked back towards the kitchen, Mu Chenyan was in deep thought, "Why do I keep feeling like I forgot something?"

    ''What did you forget?''

    Mu Chenyan looked at Yue for a minute longer and the realization hit her, "Shit!" she facepalmed herself. "I forgot about Brother Shing!"

    Yue''s face twitched at her words, ''How can you forget a person?''

    Mu Chenyan shrugged, "Just like I did." But then she hurriedly found her phone and called Shui Koshing. As soon as the call connected, she started, "Why didn''t you follow me? Didn''t I tell you to follow me inside?"

    Shui Koshing didn''t know whether tough or cry right now because of this question. It took her hours to realize that he hadn''t followed her inside? Just how high was she today?

    "I wasing to discuss important things with Uncle Yu but since his grandson came to visit, I knew we won''t be getting a chance to talk. So, I just came back."

    Yue told her to convey her message to him and Mu Chenyan asked, "Yue is asking what about dinner? Raelle and Xian are out. So, you gonna eat alone?"

    "I''m fine," said Shui Koshing.

    Mu Chenyan frowned, "Juste over. Don''t make me drag you over."

    Shui Koshing knew from her tone that there was no room for argument there so he agreed toe over for dinner in a while. Anyway, it was better to have dinner there than at home when his son and daughter-inw were out.

    Meanwhile, when Zhai Yanjun brought Xiang Wai to the living room, he was shocked to see Xiang Weimin there. "Weimin Ge, what are you doing here?"

    Xiang Weimin also looked at both of them and raised his brows in question, "You both came together?"

    "No," Both Zhai Yanjun and Xiang Wai denied simultaneously.

    "I''ve been here for hours," said Zhai Yanjun.

    Grandfather Xiang was looking at Xiang Wai without blinking but he didn''t dare approach her. He already knew that this granddaughter of his was a bit prickly. If she didn''t approach you first, don''t get close to her. She will prickle

    Although he wasn''t really afraid of being pricked, he also didn''t want to push her. But that didn''t mean he won''t try to talk to her at all. Some things are better said than left unsaid. And that''s something he learned from Raelle who hardly kept anything inside her. What she thought, she''d always say it out loud.

    "Oh, our Wai has grown up to be quite handsome," Grandfather Xiangmented good-heartedly.

    "And remarkably valiant as well," Zhai Yanjun chimed in from the side.

    Grandfather Xiang looked at him and said, "You, boy, why didn''t youe to say hello since you''ve been here for hours?"

    Zhai Yanun ran to his side and said, "Granduncle, I''m very innocent here. Ayi said you have a guest but she forgot to mention who was the guest. Wait, it must be because she didn''t know I''m acquainted with Weimin Ge, so she thought I shouldn''te over to disturb you guys."

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head at him and asked, "What''s with the apron?"

    "Oh, this," Zhai Yanjun looked down at the apron and smiled sheepishly. "I''ve taken two gorgeousdies as my master today."

    Grandfather Xiang chuckled softly, "Then I wish you the best of luck. If you survived their training, you''ll be the real warrior!"

    "That''s the goal, Granduncle!"

    "That''s very ambitious of you,"mented Grandfather Xiang. "But I suggest you run back to the kitchen before you''re set on fire on your first day of apprenticeship."

    Remembring what Mu Chenyan had said earlier, he hurriedly made a run for it. He did not believe even for a second that Grandfather Xiang would be able to help him against Mu Chenyan if something went wrong.

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head at his departing figure and looked at Xiang Wai who was still just standing there, "Wai, why don''t you sit with your brother?" To make her feel morefortable, he decided to just ask her to sit with Xiang Weimin.

    "Okay," agreed Xiang Wai. But when she sat down with her brother, he pinched her thigh making her scowl. "What?" she whispered.

    "Can''t you greet him nicely?" asked Xiang Weimin in a low voice.

    Xiang Wai looked awkward, "I don''t know how to."

    Was it her fault that she didn''t know it? She just didn''t! She couldn''t even describe how she was feeling right now. Especially after seeing Mu Chenyan''s reaction and facing that kind gaze from Grandfather Xiang, she was a bit uneasy. She wasn''t used to such an affectionate gaze from an elder.

    "Wai," Grandfather Xiang called out to her cautiously. "I apologize to you."

    "Huh?" Xiang Wai was confused.

    "For your suspension," he added to rify to her. "I''m really sorry."

    "I believe you weren''t the one behind it," said Xiang Wai.

    Grandfather Xiang nodded, "But I didn''t stop it either."

    "And if you''re given another chance, would you?"

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head decisively, "Even if it''s done all over again, I still won''t stop it."

    "Why? To prove that you choose Raelle over me?" she asked.

    "I''d never choose Raelle over you," he told her. "You both are my granddaughters. I can''t possibly pick one and ignore the other. However, you also know you''re in the wrong this time. And that''s why I wouldn''t have stopped it."

    Xiang Wai snorted, "This obsession of standing with justice sure runs in our blood, eh?"

    Grandfather Xiang smiled at her words, "It does run in our blood. Just as our stubbornness does."

    Xiang Wai was left taking at herself. She felt like she was being called out as a stubborn person. But she couldn''t confront him on that.. It wasn''t wrong. She was indeed very stubborn!

 Chapter 571 - Lovable

    There was a strange silence that had taken root in the living room. Grandfather Xiang already had close to zero topics to talk about with Xiang Weimin and now with the addition of Xiang Wai, it was even more difficult. Just what was he supposed to ask them?

    He couldn''t be disrespectful to their privacy and ask about some personal stuff. After all, they were both adults and capable of making their own decisions. And he couldn''t discuss their job as well since they both were in the military. Their jobs couldn''t be casually discussed even with family.

    Grandfather Xiang picked up the ss of water to moisten his throat.

    In the meantime, Xiang Weimin lowered his voice and said to his sister, "Did youe here topare yourself with Raelle?"

    "No," replied Xiang Wai. "I was just casually asking."

    "As her elder sister, drop the matter," added Xiang Weimin. "You don''t have to dwell over the past that doesn''t have anything to do with Raelle."

    Xiang Wai pouted at him, "Ge, why are you taking her side?" She definitely wouldn''t admit that she was also on Raelle''s side. At least, no out outrightly. "Didn''t she do enough to youst time she met you?"

    Grandfather Xiang put the ss down on the table and stared at them, "Raelle went to see you?"

    Xiang Weimin looked at his grandfather and shook his head, "She didn''t specificallye to see me. It was a coincidence. We are kind of working on a project together."

    Grandfather Xiang recalled the project that Raelle discussed with him and he instantly understood. However, he didn''t think Raelle woulde across her brother there. So, what happened? Actually, he didn''t even have to think to know what must have happened.

    Taking a deep breath, he said, "About our family''s Yenay... I mean, Raelle." He cleared his throat and continued, "She is a very straightforward person. And her thoughts had always been very clear. She isn''t really a bad person. Even if shees across as one from her words. If she hurt you, trust me that wasn''t her intention. I promise you, she had no hard feelings and she did not mean to hurt you in any way possible."

    Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai were a bit surprised. Not because of what Grandfather Xiang said but more so because of his intention here. He seemed to be speaking up for his granddaughter. To these siblings, that was a unique situation since they had never had someone speaking up for them like this. Whether they were right or wrong, they had to fight their own battles.

    "Raelle only says bitter words but she is a very sweet person," Grandfather Xiang was saying not noticing the change in their emotions. "It''s just that her perception of things is slightly different than normal people."

    "Grandfather," Xiang Wai called him out for the first time she came which stunned Grandfather Xiang. He was so overwhelmed that he couldn''t react instantly. He could only hum in response allowing her to continue. "It''s said that Raelle Xiang doesn''t have feelings. Is it true?"

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head, "No, it''s not true. However, you''d have to exert a whole of effort and time to find those feelings. Or should I say, understand her feelings? Raelle had always been different from her peers. She had an exceptional IQ. As I said, her perception of things around her is different from the rest. The same applied to feelings as well. She is as simple of a person as she isplicated. It depends on how you''re trying to look at her."

    Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai both had their own thoughts after listening to his words. But both didn''t say it out loud.

    "In fact, it''s not that difficult to get along with our Raelle," said Grandfather Xiang. "If you have patience, anything is possible." He took a pause and added, "But we should not talk about her anymore. You don''t have to worry about her at all. You both can just rx. This is your home. Even she won''t stop you froming here."

    And Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai didn''t doubt those words. After all, one way or another, they were both incited by Raelle toe here. And looking at their grandfather''s excitement to meet them, they finally understood it. She was really a good granddaughter. She really was willing to do anything to make her grandfather happy.

    "Elder Xiang!"

    Mu Chenyan came running over in her usual domineering manner but restrained herself seeing her nephew and niece looking at her. Offering them a smile, she turned to Grandfather Xiang, "It''s time for your meds." She put a tablet in her hand, "The dinner will be served in 30 minutes." He was always the one who kept track of his medication even though he had personal caregivers. But as long as she was around, she would take over the job.

    After giving him the meds he had to take before the meal, she finally was free to look at her nephew and niece again. It was like she couldn''t seem to get enough of them and wanted to look again and again.

    "Don''t scare them away," said Grandfather Xiang.

    Mu Chenyan''s face stiffened, "When did I scare them?"

    "That burning gaze of yours is scary enough," pointed Grandfather Xiang without any mercy. Then he even said to his grandchildren, "Don''t mind your aunt. She seemed to have dropped her IQ somewhere today."

    Mu Chenyan ground her teeth and leaned down to say in a soft voice, "Elder Xiang, you should stop insulting me before them. You can''t soil my image like this."

    "And what''s the image you so want to protect?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    "Of a good aunt," Mu Chenyan gritted out.

    "Tsk. Toote for that," said Grandfather Xiang. Mu Chenyan turned to re at him.

    Hmphed at him and turned to Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai, "Do you both want anything? You can tell me. Auntie will find whatever you want." And then she got carried away, "Even if you want stars, auntie can get it all for you. Just name it. Don''t be shy. Auntie is here for you."

    "Oh, the great aunt," spoke Grandfather Xiang. "Are you trying to coax kids here?"

    Mu Chenyan gave him a stinky look forgetting all about how she usually wouldn''t even raise her voice at him. "Elder Xiang, do you have to go against me like this?"

    "I just found out, it''s fun to go against you," was Grandfather Xiang''s casual response.

    "Oh, you seem to be enjoying yourself a lot," stated Mu Chenyan with her hands on her hips. "Then you won''t mind me telling Elle about you sneaking those spicy crayfish into your room the other night, right?"

    "You dare?!"

    "Try me," Mu Chenyan shot back. "It was me who let you go and allowed you to indulge in your cravings. But do you think Elle is that easygoing?"

    "You''re infuriating," said Grandfather Xiang.

    "I always had been," she retorted. Immediately she chuckled when she noticed how Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai were looking at them. Straightening up, she cleared her throat and said, "Don''t pay attention to this. It happens. No big deal."

    Obviously, their surprise was because of the fact that Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan seemed to share a very good rtionship. One had a powerful aura of an army man, and the other had an explosive and roguish aura of a gangster. And yet, they looked in harmony even when they seemed to be arguing. This was quite refreshing to them.

    "Weimin, I made a lot of nutritious food for you," Mu Chenyan told Xiang Weimin. "Eat moreter. It''s good for your recovery. You''ve gotten so thin after the ident. You should take more care of your health in this condition." She thought of something and added, "And if something is not to your liking, you can tell me. Maybe you won''t like the taste of our dishes. But we can always order from a restaurant. There is no problem."

    "But I think I like what you make," said Xiang Weimin stunning Mu Chenyan into silence and bewilderment. "Yue Fai brought a lunchbox. And he told me how much he loved to eat what you make. I tried it as well. And it was certainly to my taste."

    Xiang Wai stared daggers into her brother''s face. Howe he didn''t tell her that? Now she was jealous! She was only going to try something made by her entric aunt tonight for the first time! She was thest one! How infuriating!

    Mu Chenyan''s eyes shimmered with tears and she still smiled through it as she said, "Our little Fai is a busybody. But I love him for that." She didn''t even know she got to feed Xiang Weimin the food made by her. That sneaky little prince of their family was so... lovable! If he was around, she''d just squish him right now.

    Sigh! That just reminded her how much she was missing that little prince.

 Chapter 572 - Red Room

    Cui Xukun groggily opened his eyes and for a moment, he didn''t register where he was. Then the events from earlier became clear in his mind and he was suddenly fully awake. He had only nned toe and see Cloe today, who knew things would escte to this.

    But he certainly wasn''tining. There was nothing toin about at all. There was no doubt about the fact that he liked Cloe. Last time, after their kiss he only ran away because he didn''t want to act on his desires. Especially since he wasn''t certain about Cloe''s feelings towards him. Now that they both were clear about it all, how could he still not take the next step?

    They were both adults, both liked each other, and were even dating seriously now. Thinking about the feeling of her skin under his hand, he grew restless and turned his head to look. However, in the dark room, he couldn''t find anything. He tried to lift his hand to see if she was beside him but he realized that he couldn''t seem to move his hands.

    What?!

    He took a deep breath and tried again, but the result was the same. His hands didn''t MOVE! No, it was that his hands didn''t move, it was right to say that he could feel that his hands were tied above his head. And this realization was absurd yet, that was the reality.

    "Cloe!" he called out her name.

    Hearing the voice, the door was opened and some light from outside sprinkled inside the room. Cloe switched on the button and suddenly the whole room was engulfed in red light.

    "Oh, you''re awake," she said with a smile on her face.

    Cui Xukun looked at her wrapped in a silk gown as she walked to his side. She came to sit beside him and with her index finger, she traced his jawline.

    "It''s good that you''re awake now. We can finally start ying."

    Cui Xukun almost choked when he heard those words. He couldn''t be med for that, this setup was giving quite some room to his imagination to run wild. And his imagination was definitely running wild now. This red room, his tied hands, and his mistress smiling at him.

    Wait?! What mistress?!!!!

    He immediately shook his head to get these thoughts out of his head. This situation was messing with his head now. He hesitated before asking, "What are we ying?"

    "Oh, we''re gonna y a game," she answered carefreely. She definitely noticed the way his eyes were wandering and his expressions were quite amusing as well. But she didn''t show it on her face. If anything, this made her want to really y with him a little.

    With that thought, she stood up and walked to her dresser. She took out a few candles and ced them on the dresser. She lit them up one by one as she told him, "Trust me, the game is very interesting. You''ll love it."

    Cui Xukun gulped when he noticed what she was doing. Oh, did he mention that he was not very fond of pain? But who was fond of pain? Only masochists would be! And he wasn''t one! His thoughts were in turmoil and so was he. What should he do?

    "Can we not y?" he asked in a shaky voice.

    Cloe almostughed out loud when she heard his voice. What the...? Was he scared? Who lets him enter the ruthless corporate world? Wasn''t it said that he was quite a well-known corporatewyer? She even heard how people said he was not to be trifled with. And he was already scared from this much? She didn''t even do anything yet.

    She held a lit candle in her hand and walked towards him as she said in a soothing voice, "How can we not y? How will it be interesting if we don''t y? You should be a little adventurous in life."

    "I''m a very boring person," he told her. "I don''t like adventures!"

    Cloe ced her palm against his bare chest as she pushed his restless body back on the mattress. However, Cui Xukun''s attention was on the sensation that her hand on his chest evoke. His attention was all on her other hand that held the candle.

    "But I love adventures," she smiled at him innocently.

    Cui Xukun looked into her clear eyes and found himself drowning. Forget it! If she wanted to y, they''d just y. What could be the worst possibility? He could do this much for his girlfriend. Yes, he should give in a little to satisfy her. And if she liked to y this way, he''d just y this way!

    He took a deep breath, he opened his eyes to look at her with a determined look, "Okay! Let''s y then."

    Cloe''s brows raised up inconspicuously along with her lips. This... Why did he look like a sacrificialmb that came to ept its fate? This thought was bizarre but Cloe couldn''t shake it off since he really looked like that right now.

    She put the candle on the side table and got on the bed. As she straddled him, her hands naughtily wandered around making his body stiffen before he rxed but couldn''t overlook the excitement her hands were brewing inside his body.

    "Then let''s start our game of truth!" she announced.

    Cui Xukun''s eyes snapped open, "Huh? What game?"

    "Game of truth," she replied innocently. "The twist in the game is that I''ll be the one asking questions and you''ll be answering. Are we clear?"

    "Huh?" Cui Xukun looked even more confused. "That''s all we are ying?" He couldn''t help asking in bewilderment.

    "Yes," she replied. "What else?"

    "Then why are my hands tied up?" he asked.

    "Oh, that''s because if you didn''t answer, there will be punishment."

    Cui Xukun''s eyes widened as he stared into her eyes. "I''ll answer whatever you want," he hurriedly said. He obviously didn''t want any punishment.. At least, not the kind he had in mind right now.

 Chapter 573 - A Random Drunk

    "My first question is," started Cloe in a slow manner as if she was purposely taking her sweet time. "Have we met before our blind date?"

    Cloe noticed how Cui Xukun''s eyes widened at her question but he still answered, "No. We have never met."

    Cloe leaned down, making her lips graze against his jaw, "Are you sure about that? If you lie, I''m still gonna punish you."

    "But I''m not lying," he insisted. "We really never met before our blind date."

    Cloe narrowed her eyes suspiciously. However, she wasn''t blind. She could tell he wasn''t lying. But he was definitely hiding something here.

    "Okay, moving on," Cloe dropped the topic and chose to move on. If there was anything she learned from Raelle, it was patience. She could y this game for however long he wanted to. Yes, her patience wasn''t as otherworldly as Raelle otherwise she wouldn''t have tied him up for this question-answer session. But then again, her patience was still quite remarkable. She couldn''t possiblypete with Raelle in that department or any department for that matter.

    "Since when did you have a crush on me?" she asked straightforwardly catching Cui Xukun off guard. He didn''t expect that question toe up. By now, he realized why this question-answer session even began.

    He resigned himself to his fate. Anyway, he didn''t n on hiding it for life. "Since the first time, I saw you."

    "And I believe that wasn''t on the night of our blind date," added Cloe.

    Cui Xukun nodded his head, "Yes. I have seen you before."

    "Didn''t you say we never met?" she asked.

    "We didn''t," he repeated. "But I did see you before that and I also knew about you before our blind date."

    "And when was the first time you saw me? Where?" she questioned.

    "At your university," he answered making her eyes widen in surprise. "It was your second year of university. I came to meet my brother-inw whom my sister started dating out of nowhere. I was curious about that young brother-inw who wanted to steal my sister and I went to find him. I didn''t find him. But I did find you."

    Cloe had aplicated look on her face as she stared at him, "Don''t tell me it''s love at first sight? I was a mess in university. Always running around for part-time jobs,ck of sleep from studying all night, I looked like a grandma."

    "Who said I liked your looks?" he questioned. "I just liked the girl who was so shy and a bit timid. But she looked at that guy beside her with such adoration in her eyes that I couldn''t forget about her. Especially her words, ''I''m always with you. If you want to start your own business. I''ll support you.'' That guy had asked, ''Do you trust me?'' And that fool of a girl told him, ''I do. And I always will.''" He smiled bitterly at her as he continued, "In fact, it wasn''t love at first sight. It''s just that I couldn''t get those words out of my head. I was envious of that bastard who managed to get such love from you. You see, I have always had bad luck when it came to love." And he tried two years after he moved to another country to look for love. However, his luck was very down. He only ended up believing that love had be a fantasy.

    Until he really saw that girl with her messy hair covering most of her face. The only thing that caught his attention was her eyes.

    "And then?" she asked.

    "Then I forgot about that girl," he told her honestly. "However, I ran into that girl again. At a subway station past 10 at night. She was alone and she was crouching down beside a kitten. At first, I didn''t recognize her. I only walked over because I thought it was dangerous for a single girl to be out at that time. But then I heard her talking to that kitten."

    ~~~

    "Little Kitty, don''t be a fool like me. You can''t run from home for a guy." The girl was obviously very intoxicated. "They are all bastards. Biggest bastards in the world. Never ever trust a bastard like that."

    The girl huped and hugged the kitten close to her bosom. "I also fell for such a bastard and I fell really hard. And the bastard really yed me good." With that, her tears started pouring down like rain. "I should have known from the beginning. Once a whore is always a whore! But we girls are really strange creatures. We always want to try the forbidden fruit. The thing with a tagline, ''Caution!'' We just have to pick that thing and see what is so dangerous about it. It''s always that bad-boy energy that bes our doom in the end."

    Cui Xukun didn''t know why stood there and listened to her ranting for an hour. In fact, she was so drunk that she continued to ramble on and on about everything.

    "I wanted to break his balls but it''s such a shame that he dodged. But still, I managed to damage a few parts of him. Let me see how he goes out to catch those bitches with that bald spot on his head."

    Cui Xukun touched his hair subconsciously. With her frail stature, he almost couldn''t believe that she did any considerable damage to that cheater of a boyfriend of his. But at that time, he was willing to even believe the words of a drunkard. How funny it was that he was enjoying his Friday night listening to a random girl on the subway station. Not listening, eveasdropping would be the right word for what he was doing.

    "However, can I really me him? It''s always us women who give these bastards the audacity to cheat on us by always giving them the upper hand in the rtionship. Why should we be meek and weak? We are women! We are a force to reckon with! I''m gonna prove that to that son of a bitch and make him regret ever cheating on me!"

    ~~~~

    Who knew that the next time he''d learn about her, she was really a force to be reckon with.

 Chapter 574 - No Less Of A Trouble

    Cloe couldn''t make sense of the situation right now. Her brain couldn''tprehend how that was enough to make someone even notice her? To be honest, she didn''t think there was anything special about either of those incidents that Cui Xukun mentioned. If someone said, she had left an impression on them now then she''d easily believe them.

    She was a sessful, confident, beautiful, and overall amazing woman. It was hard to forget her.

    And that was also the reason she was more clear about what she was like back in her university days. She was shy, timid, a bit dull as well. And she wasn''t even a beauty. At most, she was a little pretty. How could she impress someone back then?

    But it happened.

    "I don''t know why but after that, your face was really stuck in my head. Without even me knowing it, I wanted to see you again. It''s a shame that I never found you. It''s so weird that I heard my brother-inw mentioning your name plenty of time but I just didn''t know the person he was talking about was you. I only learned about your identity when you came to see my nephew and niece on their birth."

    Cloe did recall that she had stopped by the hospital to see Soren''s kids. Originally, she might not have but when Soren called, he was crying and it actually frightened her. Considering how she was nearby, she decided to pay a visit. She even called Soren a fool for crying just because he became a father. But she was also jealous of him. Right after university, he was a father. He built his family while she was still trying to even get her life on track.

    "Knowing you''re my brother-inw''s friend, I thought it''d be easier to approach you but he told me that you moved to Country G for your job. I was so disappointed. And I even thought that was the end. I''d never see you again. And even we did meet, nothing could happen between us."

    Cloe tsked at him, "I think something is wrong with your aesthetics. How could you have a crush on someone just like that?"

    Cui Xukun chuckled, "Maybe you''re right but I couldn''t help it. It''s not my fault that I kept noticing you. Especially when you became the face of Xiang Conglomerate. President Raelle liked to live a low-key life and that''s why people were more familiar with your face. Every interview or press conference regarding thepany''s decisions would always have you at the forefront. And seeing that confidence exuding from within you really sucked me into the point of no return." He took a pause and added, "Perhaps the version of you that I first saw years ago wasn''t all that eye-catching. I might have forgotten you with time. But the one I saw on tv and in magazines was hard to forget. It was that change of yours that made my heart turbulent."

    "I don''t even know what to say to you," she told him. "I find this situation quite fantastical. It''s like while I was not looking, someone always had his eyes on me."

    "Does that make you feel special?" he asked cheekily.

    "Don''t try your luck. Stay quiet for now." Cloe''s brows knitted up as she went through all that he said in her head again. But no matter how she thought about it, she still found this situation a bit hard to believe. She never thought her life would have the plotline of a drama.

    *Ring!*

    "Oh, that''s my phone," said Cui Xukun. "Can you untie my hands? That''s my sister''s call. I have to take it."

    Cloe didn''t untie his hands but she did take his phone and attended the call. She ced the phone against his ear while she was still in her thoughts.

    "CUI XUKUN!" a roaring voice came from the other side that even jerked Cloe out of her thoughts much less Cui Xukun who was shaken badly. "HOW DARE YOU?!"

    "Jie, what did I do now?" asked Cui Xukun in a meek voice.

    "Where have you been?" came the question from the other side. "I''ve called you so many times but your phone was switched off. How dare you leave me hanging like this?!"

    Cui Xukun gulped nervously. It seemed his phone''s battery was indeed low when he came here. And his phone must have turned off. But it was a surprise to him that Cloe had so thoughtfully charged his phone for him. But now that his phone was turned on, his sister finally got the chance to reach his throat.

    "Jie, I came to see my girlfriend," he said sheepishly.

    Cui Xuqing was momentarily quiet before she sneered, "Oh, so once you found a girlfriend you''ve forgotten your nanny duties? You promised to babysit my kids so that I can go out with my husband today. I had to cancel my date because of you while you''re having fun!"

    Cui Xukun closed his eyes as he only now recalled that he had indeed promised to babysit the twins. But he didn''t know things would escte once he came to see Cloe. And now that he had indulged in his desires, he had to bear the consequences of ruining his sister''s date as well.

    "Jie, I''ll babysit the twins tomorrow! I promise! You can go out with my brother-inw tomorrow. Give some leeway to your brother as well. You wouldn''t want him to die single now, would you?"

    Cui Xuqing wasn''t one to fall for his pitiful acts but before she could say anything, her husband''s voice came from behind, "Let him be. There is no need to be so hard on him."

    Cui Xuqing reigned in her temper and asked, "So, when are you bringing your girlfriend over?"

    "I''m afraid she might run away because of your temper if I brought her to you so soon," said Cui Xukun honestly.

    "You brat! Is that something you should say about your sister?" She sighed, "Forget it. I''m hanging up. But you better babysit the twins tomorrow. Or I''m gonna make your meat stew and eat it for dinner!"

    And with that, the call was disconnected. Cui Xukun gave Cloe an awkward smile, "Trust me, she isn''t as bad as she sounds."

    Cloe shook her head, "I know."

    "You do?"

    Cloe nodded her head in response, "If she wasn''t a good person, Soren wouldn''t have fallen so hard for her. And with his bragging habits, I''ve heard way too many things about your sister." She took a pause and teased him, "By the way, I didn''t know that apart from being awyer, you''re a part-time nanny."

    Cui Xukun smiled helplessly, "That can''t be helped. My sister raised me, I at most help her look after her twins once in a while which is the least I can do." He looked up at his tied hands and said, "Are you really not untying my hands?"

    Cloe moved her hands and untied the red rope that she used to tie him up with. Cui Xukun finally sat up and rubbed his wrists. Then he looked at the rope in her hand and looked at her with aplicated look in his eyes, "Did you have to tie me up like this?"

    "Who told you to run away every time I tried to ask you something?" She looked at him in dissatisfaction. "Then my boss said I should just tie you up if I want some real answers."

    "And you listened to your boss?" he asked.

    "I always listen to my Chief," she replied.

    "Your boss as if Raelle Xiang?" asked Cui Xukun as he raised his brows at her.

    "She is the only boss I have," said Cloe. "And let me tell you something, Chief is never wrong. Even if it seems like she is wrong, you should never doubt her words because 99.9% of the times, she is absolutely right."

    "I didn''t know President Raelle had such tastes," hemented. "I wonder how my ex-best friend''s been doing with her."

    "You don''t have to concern yourself with that," said Cloe. "Chief would never tie anyone even if that person is her husband."

    "Why?"

    "It''s troublesome!" replied Cloe matter-of-factly. "She''d rather tear off the clothes and get down to business. After all, why would she waste her time on some fetishes when she can do better things in that time?"

    "You''ve a very good understanding of her," said Cui Xukun.

    "I do," said Cloe. "She even finds carrying her phone a troublesome matter. Why wouldn''t she find all this troublesome?" She tossed away the rope in her hand casually as she added, "Chief would always avoid trouble if she can."

    Cui Xukun hugged her waist as he ced his chin on her shoulder and asked, "But your Chief''s husband is no less of a trouble."

    Cloe shrugged, "Then I''ll tell you what I learned from Hyson. Chief will only get into the trouble that she thinks is worthwhile.. And it''s seems Shui Xian is worth it."

 Chapter 575 - Baby Him

    "Eat this as well," Mu Chenyan clipped some vegetables and ced them into Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai''s bowls respectively. She was still that loving and kind aunt who just wanted to feed these two.

    Everyone at the table was already quite used to Mu Chenyan''s enthusiasm on a dining table. No matter who sat on the dining table, if Mu Chenyan was there, she''d be more than happy to see you eat.

    She even peeled the prawns for the siblings attentively.

    "Aunt, you should not do it," said Xiang Weimin a bit unnaturally. He was by no means used to this much attention on himself while he was eating. He grew up with his dad in the barracks. Most of his meals were eaten in the mess. This much attention was never needed between soldiers.

    "I can peel it myself," even Xiang Wai added to that. She was also a little uneasy when she noticed how Mu Chenyan had been only paying attention to them while not eating anything herself. "You should eat as well."

    Mu Chenyan''s heart was touched when she heard those words. Oh, her niece was caring about her. How touching! No matter how much her Elle was amazing, she had never said such words to her.

    "Let her be," Grandfather Xiang spoke up. "Chenyan is already full."

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head, "Yes, yes. Seeing you eat so heartily is enough to make me full."

    "No, aunt should still eat," said Xiang Weimin.

    Zhai Yanjun tsked and said, "Uncle Shing, it''s just me or it''s weird to hear someone calling her aunt?"

    "No, I''m feeling the same way," replied Shui Koshing who had reallye to join them for dinner. It couldn''t be helped. He was more than happy to have somepany.

    Zhai Yanjun looked at Mu Chenyan, "By the way, I''m very curious. How old are you? I can''t tell from just looking at you."

    Of course, he couldn''t tell from just looking at her. Mu Chenyan had always had a healthy lifestyle. She worked out regrly, ate only healthy meals. She even took special care of her skin. She had to take extra care of herself because she didn''t want to die at the age of 60 or 70. She had to outlive that age so that she could apany her Elle for a little longer. How could she leave her alone in this world?

    Yue gave her nephew a displeased look before using the text-to-speech function to let him know, ''It''s not nice to ask a woman her age.''

    Zhai Yanjun immediately became sheepish, "Sorry."

    Mu Chenyan waved him off, "I don''t mind you asking my age though. It just proves that my looks are really deceiving." She gave off a proud look as she said that. With her looks, adding on her cheerful personality, it was truly hard to tell her age. It was only with Raelle that she gave off a mature air and seemed like a gentle and refined woman which she obviously was not.

    "I''m also curious why you feel so happy feeding people?" asked Zhai Yanjun. "Weimin Ge, you shouldn''t feel bothered by this. Apart from me, your dear aunt loves to feed everyone."

    "The food is in front of you, when did I snatch it from you?" retorted Mu Chenyan.

    "That''s different," said Zhai Yanjun. "I won''t darepare myself to Raelle or Fai but even when Fai''s friends came over for the first time, you so actively served them. While when I came, you ran after me with that rolling pin of yours."

    Mu Chenyan pped her chopsticks on the table and gave him a menacing look, "And do you need me to remind you why I did that?"

    Zhai Yanjun cleared his throat, "No, I don''t. That''s not my realint. My realint is that you''re too partial."

    "Why should I serve you when you have an exclusive server?" Mu Chenyan pointed at Yue who was eating elegantly in silence minding her own business as if none of this had anything to do with her.

    Yue clicked a piece of meat and ced it into Zhai Yanjun''s bowl while she patted his head and mouthed, ''Eat more!''

    Mu Chenayn looked at that and sighed, "See? She doesn''t even do that for her own son but you''re clearly different."

    Yue looked at her and mouthed, ''Do you give me a chance to do something for my son?''

    Mu Chenyan chose to y dumb as if she didn''t understand what she meant at all. So what if she doted on her little Fai a little more? Didn''t he deserve that? Yes, he did! He was so cute how could she not love him a little more and dote on him a little more?

    "Let''s just eat in silence," said Grandfather Xiang. "Chenyan, focus on eating. Don''t just pay attention to them."

    Mu Chenyan lowered her head, ''Oh.'' She silently took her chopsticks and started to eat. But her attention was still not fully on eating.

    After the meal, she looked at Zhai Yanjun and said, "Errand boy, do you know how to make tea?"

    Zhai Yanjun frowned but still nodded. He might not know how to cook but tea was definitely something he knew how to make.

    "Then clear up the table, wash the dishes, and make some tea. Bring it to the lounge when you''re done," instructed Mu Chenyan. Seeing how Yue was about to step forward to help him, she held her arm, "You stay here. He is a big boy. I''m sure he can do this much on his own. Right, Yanjun?"

    ''Even if I don''t know, I don''t dare say it before you.'' Those were his thoughts that he didn''t dare voice out and only smiled at her. "I''ll do it. I can definitely do it."

    Yue red at Mu Chenyan who shrugged, "Don''t baby him. He is not that fragile."

    ''You are saying that who had been babying Raelle and Fai even until now?''

    Mu Chenyan cleared her throat, "Those two are babies. And my little Fai is fragile.. Don''t forget that."

 Chapter 576 - Broken People

    Raelle had her eyes closed on their drive back home. For a moment, even Shui Xian thought she was asleep but he didn''t question it though. He just found it strange considering how Raelle never had the habit of taking naps. Her sleep time was very consistent.

    "Why are we here?" she opened her eyes to ask him when he turned into the driveway. "Aren''t we going home?"

    "We are home," he said to her. "I just thought we should see Grandpa before going to our other home."

    He so naturally called Xiang''s ce as their home as well. Not that Raelle wanted to disagree with that. She also found his words reasonable. "We should indeed see Opa. I haven''t seen him in a while."

    Raelle slighted from the car but didn''t move until Shui Xian joined her. She used her fingerprint to unlock the door and sauntered in without any care in the world. She never had to inform anyone that she wasing over, neither did she have any need of ringing the bell to enter her own home.

    Just as she entered, she could actually hear more than one voiceing from the front living room. That caught her attention and she followed the voice in. Her footsteps paused when she reached the door. That''s because she instantly noticed a few extra people in the room. Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai were still sitting on the sofa together. Meanwhile, Zhai Yanjun was serving tea to everyone.

    Apart from these three new faces, she didn''t think Shui Koshing was an extra person in the room. But the sight of those three together was really something she didn''t think of seeing. She did ce a bet with Xiang Wai but who knew she would reallye on the same day? At least, Raelle didn''t think so. And she didn''t know that Xiang Weimin was here as well.

    "What is this? A gathering of broken people?" asked Raelle but her voice wasn''t really loud. That''s why only Shui Xian who stood beside her heard those words.

    He patted his wife''s shoulder and said, "Darling, that''s not nice."

    "Oh," was the only response Raelle gave to him.

    On the other hand, Shui Xian was trying to suppress hisughter. He had to say, his wife really had some great words to say. ''Gathering of broken people''? He looked at Xiang Weimin then his eyes moved to Xiang Wai and finally, his gaze settled on Zhai Yanjun. Oh, she was speaking the truth as always. These three were really... broken.

    He couldn''t bring himself to disagree with his wife''s evaluation. For one, she was never wrong. For two, he wasn''t blind. He tsked to himself. Damaged kids from damaged families.

    And then he looked back at his wife, she surely didn''t look like a damaged person. But most of the credit for that surely goes to Mu Chenyan, Grandfather Xiang, and Hyson.

    "Opa!" Raelle called out and only then did everyone in the room noticed her presence. She walked over to Grandfather Xiang''s side and kneeled down before Grandfather Xian as she always did. She looked up at him while Grandfather Xiang was still just looking at her in surprise. "Did you forget me already, Opa?"

    Grandfather Xiang frowned and patted her head, "How is that possible? How can I ever forget my treasure?" He caressed her hair lovingly, "I was just not expecting to see you here."

    "Why? Am I not allowed toe whenever I want to just because you married me off?"

    Grandfather Xiang pinched her nose, "How is that possible? Don''t spout nonsense!"

    "Ellie," Mu Chenyan called out.

    Raelle waved at her, "Hi, Yanyan! Hi, Yue! What''s up, B¨¤? Yo, Yanjun is also here."

    Grandfather Xiang was still looking at his granddaughter lovingly and said, "Are you forgetting something?"

    "Am I?"

    Grandfather Xiang raised his brows at her and Raelle finally turned to others, "Hello, Lieutenant and Major Xiang."

    Grandfather Xiang tsked at her, "Is that how you should greet them?"

    Raelle had a staring contest with her grandfather for a minute before she turned back to her siblings and said, "Hi, Brother! Hello, Sister!"

    Both Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai were stunned when they heard her greeting them like that. They were not expecting to meet Raelle here as well. But they definitely didn''t expect to hear the words like brother and sister from her either. It was obvious that they met before but Raelle had a very different opinion of them when they met before.

    "Opa, are you happy?" asked Raelle as she ced her head on his legs.

    Grandfather Xiang indulgingly continued to caress her head, "Yes. I''m very happy today."

    "That''s good," said Raelle. "Raelle wants to see you happy."

    "Oh? Is that so? Then grandfather would be happier if you let him call you Yenay from now."

    "No!" came Raelle''s answer immediately. "That''s not up for discussion."

    Grandfather Xiang chuckled at her words. "Yes, yes. It has never been up for discussion."

    "B¨¤, did you have dinner??" asked Raelle.

    "I have," answered Shui Koshing. "What about you my dear daughter-inw?"

    "You can ask that to your son as well," said Shui Xian as he came to sit beside his father.

    "You won''t die even if you skipped a meal," responded Shui Koshing. "So, daughter-inw, did you have fun today?"

    "Fun. I think so," said Raelle. "We went horse riding. Opa, I lost the race."

    "How is the possible?" asked Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan at the same time.

    "How can my Ellie lose? Who won?"

    "My husband did," said Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan looked at Shui Xian, "He won? With his skills? How is that even possible?"

    "Yanyan, you''re looking down on me," Shui Xian pointed out.

    "When have I not?" she retorted.

    "Chenyan," Grandfather Xiang spoke up. "Stop it. That''s our family''s son-inw. Learn to behave a little."

    "Yes, big boss!" said Mu Chenyan but anyone could she was being perfunctory.

    With Shui Xian, she believed she was already very nice. She was indeed very nice to Shui Xian. If it had been anyone else. Hehehe.... They wouldn''t have survived until now.

 Chapter 577 - Declined IQ

    "Saozi, how about some tea?"

    Raelle looked at Zhai Yanjun who was asking her that question. Although Zhai Yanjun was just standing there being amused by Shui Xian''s predicament because of Mu Chenyan, he didn''t dare to get involved. He was even in a worse position than Shui Xian before Mu Chenyan. So, it was better to butter up the queen of the family instead.

    After all, Shui Xian was only alive because Raelle stood beside him.

    "What if I say I don''t drink tea?" questioned Raelle.

    Zhai Yanjun smiled at her, "Saozi, that''s not true. You aren''t that particr about what you''re eating or drinking."

    Raelle lifted her head up from Grandfather Xiang''s legs and said, "Oh? It seems you''ve been paying quite some attention to me, Soldier."

    Zhai Yanjun smiled even more sweetly, "It''s because I learned whom I''m supposed to look up to."

    "You mean ttering," Shui Xian spoke from the side. "But Yanjun, that''s my wife. You better don''t try to tter her. She doesn''t like people who do that."

    Zhai Yanjun frowned at him, "Why are you getting into this? I''m talking to my Saozi here." He again turned to Raelle, "Tea?"

    "Okay," said Raelle. Who said she''d refuse him? Wasn''t it good to have some serving you? Especially if the server was also good-looking.

    Grandfather Xiang patted Raelle''s hand, "Get up and sit on the couch."

    "I''m fine here," said Raelle. From a very young age, she had the habit of sitting in a position where she had to look up to him. If she stand beside him, she''d have to look down at him in his wheelchair. And she had never liked that. Her grandfather''s position was unshakeable in her heart. She didn''t think there was anything wrong with kneeling before him.

    "Granddaughter, why are you so stubborn?" Grandfather Xiang asked helplessly.

    "Because I''m your granddaughter," she replied matter-of-factly.

    "Yes, yes, you definitely are my granddaughter," said Grandfather Xiang. He looked at his other grandchildren and said, "Don''t mind her. She is just like this. Our family''s treasure is a bit special."

    Raelle shook his hand, "Just a little bit special?"

    "No, you''re the most special one!" Shui Koshing chimed in at this point.

    "B¨¤, you aren''t that bad either," replied Raelle making Shui Koshing smile at her words.

    "Aiyo, thank you for thepliment, my dear daughter-inw," said Shui Koshing.

    "No, no. I''m very serious. You''re also very handsome."

    Shui Koshing chuckled at her, "Oh, then I''m ttered."

    "Saozi, how about me?"

    Looking at Zhai Yanjun''s eager expression, Raelle paused and said, "You''re also okay." Zhai Yanjun''s lips spasmed while she went on, "I''d have liked you better if you hadn''t gone MIA on our date."

    Zhai Yanjun subconsciously looked at Xiang Wai when she brought up that date and just as he had expected, Xiang Wai was really stunned. However, she had controlled her emotions soon and pretended as if nothing happened. But Zhai Yanjun had seen it already. How could she hide it so easily?

    "You really hold grudges," said Zhai Yanjun.

    "First impressions are thest impressions," was Raelle''s reply. "Who told you to enter my life with a wrong impression? Now, how am I supposed to let it go?"

    "Ellie,e over here," said Mu Chenyan as she beckoned Raelle out.

    Raelle stood up and followed her. "What happened?"

    Mu Chenyan touched her face and looked distressed, "What did you do out there? You have so much dust on you."

    "I was ying in the mud," said Raelle.

    "Were you?" Mu Chenyan asked suspiciously.

    Yue pinched Mu Chenyan''s arm, ''She is teasing you.''

    Mu Chenyan stared at Raelle who confirmed Yue''s words as she said, "Why do fall for everything I say? Why does your IQ always lower down when I''m around? You already know I''ve never yed in the mud. What am I? A 3-year-old kid?"

    ''Her IQ''s been offline since she saw her nephew and niece.''

    Raelle also nodded, "Oh, so they lowered your IQ even more. Maybe I shouldn''t have gotten them here."

    Mu Chenyan held her hand, "Don''t say that. They are your siblings. It''s good that they are here."

    "When did I say it''s not good? They have the same surname Xiang as mind. Who am I to stop them froming here?"

    Mu Chenyan waved her off, "Forget about that. You tell me what did you do today?" She looked at her hand and frowned deeply, "Why are your hands injured?"

    "My hands are not injured though," said Raelle. "I did horseback riding, also some archery. Then we yed some tennis."

    "No wonder your hands are so red now," Mu Chenyan looked distressed. "Why did you have to do everything on the same day? Your hands are already so sensitive. Let me get some ointment."

    Raelle looked at her hands and really didn''t think there was anything wrong with her hands but then again, she couldn''t argue with Mu Chenyan. If this woman believed that her hands were ''injured'' then it was injured. There was no way around it.

    "As always, she is overreacting," Raellemented while Mu Chenyan went to get the first aid kit. It was true that her palms were really red right now and it was also because of the activities she did today. But there was nothing else wrong with her hands.

    This was also the reason why Raelle chose not even to mention how she suddenly lost her focus while horseback riding. She knew it''d be a piece of sensational news. It was better to avoid this topic.

    Mu Chenyan came back and held out her hand to apply whatever herbal ointment she had concocted for her. Raelle let her be and obediently just stood there. Mu Chenyan kept blowing at her hands while applying the ointment.

    "Yanyan, why are you such a busybody?" asked Raelle. "Stop always hovering around me." She pointed at her brother and sister inside as she added, "Look, I brought you two more Xiang. Why don''t you divert some attention to them?"

    Mu Chenyan pinched her nose, "My Ellie will always be my Ellie. I love them both but they can never be you."

    "Your words might hurt them."

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips before saying, "More than my words, it''s who is better at hurting people."

 Chapter 578 - Just Stay

    On the other hand, Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai got to see a different version of everyone in this room once Raelle came. The way she talked to everyone was actually very interesting. The tone of her voice never changed. It was just as nd as ever. But you could hear how she treated everyone in this room by paying attention to her words.

    When she sat with Grandfather Xiang, she looked like an obedient but kind of spoiled granddaughter. But the way Shui Koshing talked to her was also like he was indulging her. As for Zhai Yanjun, they were shocked to see how he interacted with Raelle. It came as such a surprise to Xiang Wai who always thought Zhai Yanjun just loved being serious.

    But clearly, he was quite yful here. And about that date that Raelle mentioned. Her mind was actually stuck on that but she kept convincing herself that it meant something else. After all, Raelle was married to Shui Xian. There was no way she dated Zhai Yanjun.

    "Maybe we should leave now," suggested Xiang Wai.

    "Huh? So soon?" came Mu Chenyan''s voice when she came back. "I mean, why don''t guys stay tonight? Your rooms are all ready. Everything you possibly need is there."

    Seeing her hesitation, Raelle stepped forward and said, "Aren''t you staying with the Zhai family?" Xiang Weimin nodded while she went on, "Then isn''t it better to stay at your own home than imposing on someone else?" She looked at Xiang Wai and added, "And you are also gonna be alone at your ce anyway. Isn''t it just good to stay here?"

    Yue shook her head, ''She really goes against her own ideas for your sake.''

    Mu Chenyan couldn''t disagree with her words. Even she knew why Raelle offered them to stay here. It was for her and Grandfather Xiang.

    "Yanyan, you can just show them their rooms," said Raelle without waiting for their replies. "And stop treating them as ancestors."

    "Ellie," Mu Chenyan rebuked in a soft voice. "That''s not nice to say."

    "When have I been nice?" was Raelle''s reply. "And if they are so nice, they can do this much for you and Opa."

    Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai were stunned by her words and also by the aura she was emanating out of nowhere. It was like she could crush them with her aura and force them to submit to her. This feeling actually reminded both of them of their father. This realization made them both share a look before they sighed.

    Xiang Weimin held back Xiang Wai as he said, "We''ll be staying, Aunt."

    "Oh, really?" asked Mu Chenyan hopefully. "That''s wonderful." She was just short of jumping around now.

    Raelle walked to her grandfather and leaned down to hug him, "Opa, I''m leaving now. Take your meds and let your caregiver give your legs a massage. Then rest. You didn''t take a nap today for sure."

    Grandfather Xiang patted her back, "Yes, I''m going to rest now. You should hurry home and rest too."

    "I''m going to," said Raelle. "Tomorrow, I''m gonna y basketball with Xian. Youe to watch it."

    Grandfather Xiang happily agreed, "I''lle to support you."

    "Okay, if youe I definitely will win," said Raelle.

    Grandfather Xiang rubbed her head, "It''s okay not to win."

    "Yes, yes, I know. I should just have fun."

    "Yes, you should." He kissed her forehead lovingly and said, "Now, go."

    Raelle nodded and turned to leave, she held Shui Koshing''s arm and dragged him, "Let''s go home, B¨¤!"

    "Hey, what about me?" asked Shui Xian from behind.

    "See your friend out and thene home," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian looked at Zhai Yanjun, "What are you looking at? Are you also staying?"

    Zhai Yanjun shook his head, "Nope. I have to leave." He hugged his aunt and said, "Ayi, I''lle to see you againter. Bye-bye!"

    Yue rubbed his head and said goodbye to him. Then she turned to Mu Chenyan, ''Don''t just stand there. We have to show them their rooms so that they can sleep.''

    Mu Chenyan immediately came to action and directed them to their rooms. The mansion was way too big for people who actually lived here. Today, it looked especially deserted since the servants were on a holiday. When she said Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai had their own rooms, she wasn''t just saying it. It was the truth. No matter where they lived, there were always rooms for these two.

    Not only that, since the time Raelle could remember, she had seen Mu Chenyan preparing clothes and necessities for her siblings every season. It was quite a waste of time and waste of money but Raelle never concerned herself about it since neither was it her time nor was it her money. It was all Mu Chenyan who seemed to just love wasting her time on such things.

    "See if there is anything you need," said Mu Chenyan to both of them as she showed them their rooms which were right across from each other. "If there is anything missing. Look for me." She pointed at an inte and added, "Just press 1 and you''ll connect it to my room. Don''t hesitate and just let me know anything you need." She took a pause to think about what else to say and continued, "You can find pajamas in the closet. There is a mini-fridge in the room. It''s stacked with things. Ah! I''ll bring some hot water for you to drink."

    "Isn''t she too attentive?" questioned Xiang Wai to her brother as she leaned against the door of her room. "It almost feels like she can''t contain herself today."

    Xiang Weimin nodded in agreement, "It seems she had been waiting for us for way too long." He lowered his eyes as he added, "It''s weird though. It''s the first time I know what it feels like to have someone waiting for you at home."

    Xiang Wai couldn''t deny his words. Even she didn''t know how it felt to have someone waiting for you at home.. But it seems their Xiang family had always been waiting for them. Then why did they stubbornly took so long toe back home?

 Chapter 579 - Homewrecker?

    *Knock Knock!*

    Tang Hebe ced the ss of white wine on the coffee table and stood up. Fixing the belt of her sleeping gown, she opened the door. Looking at that figure standing before her, her lips curled up.

    "Cousin, is it okay for you to abandon your husband on the night of your marriage just for me?"

    Tang Ping sneered, "Get out of the way!" She pushed her and entered the room domineeringly. From the moment she saw Tang Hebe at her wedding, she had been meaning toe to see her. But she couldn''t just leave her wedding. So, dealing with all the guests and other stuff, took her a while.

    Fortunately, she learned that Tang Hebe was staying at the resort. So, she chose toe to her at this time of the night.

    Tang Hebe looked at her before she closed the door and followed her in. "Since you''re here. Have a seat, please."

    Tang Ping sat down and picked up the wine ss. Throwing her head back, she chucked the whole thing down.

    "Tsk. You still have no appreciation for good wine," stated Tang Hebe in disappointment. "And by the way, that was my ss."

    "So what?" retorted Tang Ping. "We have shared way too many things in our lives."

    "True," was all Tang Hebe said and then sat down on the single-seater sofa. "Oh, and I''m still very hurt that you didn''t even bother inviting me to your wedding."

    "But you still showed up, didn''t you?" was Tang Ping''s response.

    Tang Hebe poured herself another ss of wine and leaned back on the blue-colored sofazily. One leg crossed over the other, she gave off a veryzy feeling. Lapels of her sleeping gown slid down a little, giving the perfect view of her sharp cor bones, her creamy skin, and her cleavage. One had to say, she looked quite seductive just sitting there.

    "I couldn''t possibly miss out on your wedding," said Tang Hebe. She swirled the wine in her ss as she continued, "When we were young you once told me toe to your wedding even without an invitation. I think I took your words way too seriously, Pingping."

    "I''ve missed you," said Tang Ping with aplicated look in her eyes. "Do you have any idea how mad I was when I couldn''t contact you? I never had any hopes for anyone from the Tang family. You''re always the only one. The only one I could depend on but you chose to abruptly leave. I didn''t even know where to look for you."

    "I sent you postcards," said Tang Hebe hiding her sad expressions behind the ss of wine.

    "Postcards from all around the world," scoffed Tang Ping. "That only was the reassurance that you''re alive somewhere out there." She gave her a look of usation, "Couldn''t you have told me before leaving so suddenly? I was so shocked when I learned that you divorced Shui Xian and then just left. Forget about me, do you realize what you did to him?"

    Tang Hebe lowered her eyes to hide her emotions as she said, "Shui Xian will always be that one person who really deserves an apology from me. But the thing is, an apology is not enough. I can''t even bring myself to face him. How am I gonna apologize to him?"

    "What did you run from?" asked Tang Ping.

    "A lot of things," replied Tang Hebe. "But more than anything, I was running from myself."

    "Then have you stopped running? Are you ready to face whatever has been chasing you for so long?"

    Tang Hebe shook her head, "Nah! I was never that brave. If I had been, I wouldn''t have started running in the first ce." She took another sip of the wine before saying, "I''m back because of some business."

    "Don''t tell me that business is Shui Xian? He is already married."

    Tang Hebe looked at her cousin, askance. "What do you think of me? Do you think I''m the kind of a person who would try to be a homewrecker? Do you have such little trust in me?"

    "It''s hard to say what''s on your mind," Tang Ping spoke bitterly, clearly exposing how hurt she had been when Tang Hebe didn''t even bother telling her anything back then and ran away just like that. She was mad at this cousin but more than anything, she had been worried. In her opinion, Tang Hebe wasn''t an independent woman.

    She was far from it. She always needed someone to protect her. She was always a simple and sweet kind of person. So, it was really worrying for her to know Tang Hebe was wandering in the world all alone. That''s why even though Tang Hebe sent postcards every other month, she was still very worried about her safety.

    Tang Hebe sighed out, "I never intended toe and ruin Shui Xian''s life. I genuinely want him to be happy in his life. Why would I try to ruin that happiness for him? Even if we got divorced, he will always be my best friend. The friend who always protected me. In fact, he protected me so much from the world that I never even got to know what kind of a world I was living in."

    Tang Ping stayed quiet when she heard that. She obviously knew what kind of a person Tang Hebe was. And she also knew how Shui Xian along with Cui Xukun always sheltered Tang Hebe to the point that this silly girl actually believed that the world was a happy ce filled with sunshine and rainbows.

    "How long are you staying for?" asked Tang Ping. "I mean will you be here after Ie back from my honeymoon?"

    Tang Hebe contemted it for a moment and said, "If nothing unexpected happened, I''ll be here." Suddenly, both of them heard the sound of whimpering that startled them.. Tang Hebe instantly stood up and ran inside the bedroom.

 Chapter 580 - Mommy Is Here

    Tang Ping reacted a minuteter but still followed Tang Hebe inside the bedroom. There she saw a small figure curled up on the bed whimpering softly. Tang Hebe moved the nkets and hugged that small frame into her arms.

    "Shhh... It''s okay. Mommy is here. Don''t be scared."

    Her voice was soft and soothing as she continued tofort the little boy. Tang Ping stepped closer to look at him. She couldn''t tell him age clearly. He was too thin. Currently, tears were trickling down his face. But his eyes were closed tightly. It seemed he was crying in his sleep.

    "It''s just a dream," Tang Hebe was saying. "It''s okay. Everything is alright."

    Tang Ping just stood there not knowing what to do. So, she silently just watched. It took Tang Hebe fifteen minutes to calm down the boy whose sleep finally returned to peace. But Tang Hebe didn''t put him on the bed yet, she continued to caress his head lovingly and patted his backfortingly.

    "He?" Tang Ping opened her mouth to ask but she didn''t know what to ask.

    Tang Hebe looked at her and signaled her to stay quiet for now. She ced the little boy down on the bed and tucked him in before cing a kiss on his temple. She stood up and walked out of the bedroom with Tang Ping.

    Tang Ping was still pondering what she wanted to ask but in the end, she only asked, "What''s his name?"

    "Justin," answered Tang Hebe with a soft smile on her lips and Tang Ping had to say that was the first smile of the night from her cousin that reminded her of Tang Hebe''s old self. Otherwise, she still had been wondering if she was meeting the wrong person.

    "Who is he?" asked Tang Ping.

    "He is my son," replied Tang Hebe. "He''s mildly autistic," she told her cousin. "But he is a very good boy. Just doesn''t like to talk very much. And isn''t as lively as other kids his age. It''s such a shame that you came when he is sleeping. If you had been met him when he was awake, you''d have loved him."

    Tang Ping had a veryplicated look in her eyes right now. She was trying to figure out something but she was unable to do so.

    "Pingping, is it really okay for you to disappear for so long on your own wedding night? Your husband must be pissed off. What if he thought you ran away?"

    "Stop talking nonsense just because you want to change the topic," said Tang Ping. "I wasn''t nning on asking you anything about that son of yours. It''s your matter. I don''t see a reason why I should be concerned about it. As for my husband, you don''t have to worry. He knows where I am."

    Tang Hebe walked over to the wardrobe and took out a box. She presented it to Tang Ping, "Once again, congrattions! I wish you a very happy married life."

    Tang Ping frowned at the gift box but still took it from her. "Did you go back to the family house?"

    "Mhmm..." Tang Hebe hummedzily.

    "And?"

    "And nothing," Tang Hebe shrugged nonchntly. "Just grandmother nagging me over how she told me marrying Shui Xian will never end well but I didn''t listen. Now, I even have extra baggage with me. Who would want to marry me in the future... h... h... h..."

    "That old hag is still alive?"

    Tang Hebe''s lips spasmed when she heard that question from Tang Ping and chuckled, "Just how much do you hate grandmother?"

    "Am I not supposed to?" retorted Tang Ping. "That old hag almost got my mom and dad divorced because my mom couldn''t give birth to a daughter. She couldn''t deal with your mom because she came from an influential family, so she chose to bully my mom instead. What a nagger! Why don''t she just die already?"

    Tang Hebe chose not toment about that. "But isnn''t it good? If she had not created that drama of almost throwing a mistress at uncle''s face, he wouldn''t have decided to sever his ties with the family."

    Tang Ping took a deep breath, "That''s true. At least my dad was never naive to fall for that old hag''s tricks."

    "You still don''t want to call her grandmother?"

    "I don''t have a grandmother like that," retorted Tang Ping. "And you, I don''t know what you went through in the past years but I hope you can stand your ground and fight your own battles now."

    "I have long separated from them," said Tang Hebe. "When I married Xian, I already had stopped being the daughter of the Tang family."

    "And yet you let them lead you around?" Tang Ping snorted at her. "And harass you? When are you gonna learn?" Tang Ping sounded very dissatisfied. "The world has changed a lot in thest years while you''re gone."

    Tang Hebe nodded her head, "Right. I also realized that the world has moved on while I''m just standing right where I was."

    "I''m leaving now," said Tang Ping. "You''re depressing. And it''s my happy day, I don''t want you to spoil it!"

    "Tsk. It''s not like I called you here," said Tang Hebe. "Go, go already! Leave!"

    While leaving Tang Ping hugged Tang Hebe and said, "If you feel lonely, just go to my home. Mom and dad would love to have you over."

    Tang Hebe nodded at her. "Thank you!"

    "Forget it. I''m leaving now."

    "Have fun!" Tang Hebe called out from behind. "And don''t tire yourself too much. Leave some energy to catch the flight tomorrow."

    Tang Ping turned to re at her with a blush on her face. She wanted to smack Tang Hebe''s face right now. Did she want everyone to hear her?!

    Tang Hebe was amused by how easily flustered her cousin got. And here she thought Tang Ping was always better than her. Sigh.. It wasn''t all that wrong either.

 Chapter 581 - Cautious

    Waking up early in the morning, both Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai found a pair of workout clothes and put them on. Although Xiang Weimin couldn''t go for a run with his condition, he still wanted to take a walk to stretch his nerves. As soon as he stepped out of the door, the door opposite him also opened and Xiang Wai came out.

    "Ge, you should be resting," was all Xiang Wai said once she looked at how her brother was dressed.

    "I''ll get moldy if I continued to rest," said Xiang Weimin.

    Then in silence, they both descended the stairs. As they reached the ground floor, both of them paused when they heard some voices.

    "Chenyan, stop pacing around," Grandfather Xiang was saying.

    "Elder Xiang, should I go up or not?" asked Mu Chenyan uncertainly. "What if they are still asleep? Won''t I be ruining their sleep if I went up to check on them?"

    "I don''t think they are asleep," said Grandfather Xiang.

    "Well, you don''t know that. We don''t know anything about their sleeping habits."

    "But they both are in the army. What makes you think they''d have the habit of sleeping for so long?"

    "However, it''s their first time sleeping over. It''s a new ce. Different bed and all. Maybe they didn''t get to sleep so well."

    "Chenyan, I''m really doubting your intelligence right now," stated Grandfather Xiang. "Don''t speak like that in front of Raelle or else she''ll also start doubting you." He almost rolled his eyes at Mu Chenyan. She was really overthinking on her own. What new ce and different bed? Didn''t those in the army have to even sleep in the cold desert or even in snow? How could a bed be any lessfortable than that?

    Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai finally came down. When Mu Chenyan noticed them, she instantly perked up, "Oh, you guys are up? Did you have a good sleep?"

    "It was fine," answered Xiang Weimin for both of them.

    Seeing how they were dressed, Mu Chenyan said, "Do you wanna go out for a run? There is a park here. Or if you want to hit the gym then it''s upstairs. I can show you the way."

    "No, we''ll be going out for a run," said Xiang Weimin.

    "Will that be okay?" asked Mu Chenyan in concern. "What about your injury?"

    "Aunt, I''m fine now. I just want to exercise a little," said Xiang Weimin feeling a little helpless before this aunt of his.

    "Chenyan," Grandfather Xiang called out from behind. "He is old enough to know what''s best for him. Don''t stand in his way."

    "When did I stand in his way?" grumbled Mu Chenyan unhappily. "Then how about breakfast? What do you usually like to eat for breakfast?" She looked at Xiang Wai who had been silent and asked her, "Wai? Do you want anything?"

    Xiang Wai felt awkward even interacting with this enthusiastic aunt of hers since she didn''t know how to react. It was easier to interact with anyone from the Song family. All she had to do was wear an ugly face and give them sarcastic remarks. But she couldn''t do the same to Mu Chenyan. You can''t possibly p a smiling face, right?

    But it was truly difficult for her to interact normally with Mu Chenyan. "Anything is fine. We are not that particr about food."

    Mu Chenyan sighed out, "Why are you all siblings the same?" And when she said ''all siblings'' Raelle was definitely included in that since thatdy was also not particr about food. "Fine, then I''ll see what to make on my own. You should go now."

    Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai stepped out of the door but they could still tell that Mu Chenyan''s eyes were on their backs.

    "Ge," Xiang Wai called out to her brother. "I''m a little..."

    "Not used to being treated this way." Xiang Weiminpleted her sentence for her.

    "Right," agreed Xiang Wai. "And it seems like whether it''s aunt or grandfather, they both are..."

    "Cautious and quite careful around us," Xiang Weimin again helped her inpleting her sentence.

    Xiang Wai nodded her head, "For the first time in my life, I..."

    "Don''t know how to react to this."

    Xiang Wai looked at her brother, "Ge, do you have to act like the worm in my stomach? Why do you even know what I''m thinking about?"

    "Because I''m going through the same feelings," said Xiang Weimin. "I''ve noticed that longing in Aunt''s eyes and also how happy she was to see us there. I''ve also seen how grandfather looked at us with pride in his eyes. And I could tell that he is genuinely very proud of us." He took a deep breath as he continued, "When I sat with him yesterday, not even once did he ask me why I chose to join the air force. But he did tell me he was proud of me."

    "I felt really envious of Raelle when grandfather put his hand on her head," said Xiang Wai. "There was no hesitation on his face when he hugged her. And when it came to me, I could tell he wanted to hug me but he held back. Even though it''s Raelle who doesn''t like physical touch and yet, he was hesitant to approach me."

    "He must be thinking we might not want it," said Xiang Weimin. "But it''s different when ites to Raelle. He knows what is allowed and what is not allowed when ites to her. We... We met him after so many years. He must be careful so as not to do anything that might push us away." He rubbed Xiang Wai''s head and added, "And you, stop scowling so much in front of him. Even if you don''t want to smile, at least don''t look like you''re ready to get into a fight."

    "That''s what Papa said as well," told Xiang Wai.

    "You told Dad?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    Xiang Wai hummed in reply, "I wanted to learn something about his father and sister from him."

 Chapter 582 - Selective Sight

    "What did Dad tell you?" asked Xiang Weimin curiously.

    "He said grandfather only looks like a stern man. Inside, he is a softie. As for his sister, his exact words were, ''Chenchen is... well Chenchen. You of all people would really love her. She''s everything you wanted to be and much more. But beware, my sister is a little mental.''"

    Xiang Weimin chuckled, "That''s what he used to tell me as well. But I am not able to see how aunt is actually mental. I always wondered if it was really okay for him to call his own sister mental?"

    "I''m curious to see why everyone who knew her always told me that I resemble her," said Xiang Wai. "I''m even willing to increase my vacations to see why and how I resemble her."

    "From the looks of it, she is more than ready to kidnap us," smiled Xiang Weimin when he recalled Mu Chenyan eyes darting around, cooking up the n to keep him there.

    ....

    "Wifey, are we really ying basketball today?"

    "Yes," answered Raelle.

    "Do you know how to y basketball?"

    "I don''t," she replied. "I''ve never been that into sports."

    "Then why did you think of ying basketball out of nowhere?" asked Shui Xian in confusion. The question had been on his mind sincest night. Even he was surprised when she told Grandfather Xiang that they were gonna y basketball today.

    "Don''t you like to y basketball?" asked Raelle in return.

    And that one question was actually able to answer all of his questions. Because he liked to y basketball, that''s why she was gonna y with him.

    "How do you know that?" he asked her.

    "B¨¤ told me that you''re a champion back in school," said Raelle. "I also saw your basketball in the storeroomst time."

    "So, you want to apany me because I like it?" he shook his head to himself. "But baby, you haven''t yed basketball before."

    "What? You won''t even teach me?"

    Shui Xian instantly went into silent mode. "Why won''t I? Now that you''ve pointed it out, I''m even more looking forward to ying basketball." He took a pause and told her, "But I haven''t yed in a long while. Hopefully, I''ll be able to save my reputation before my wife."

    "It''s okay," said Raelle. "Even if you y it badly, I''ll pretend like I didn''t see it."

    Shui Xian chuckled at her words. "That''s very reassuring."

    "Good morning, Raelle!"

    Both Raelle and Shui Xian stopped in their track and looked at Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai. It seemed to be Xiang Weimin who called out to her just now.

    "What''s good about this morning?" was Raelle''s response. She was about to leave but stopped and looked at him, "Do you have selective sight?"

    "Huh?" Xiang Weimin was confused.

    "If not, why are you ignoring my husband?" asked Raelle. "Can''t you see him standing right here with me?"

    Xiang Weimin narrowed his eyes at Shui Xian but still said, "Morning, Mr. Shui."

    "Morning," replied Shui Xian with an awkward smile. He could already see that this brother-inw wasn''t all that friendly towards him. But he also knew why that was so. Any brother would act like that, no?

    After that, Raelle took Shui Xian and continued her morning run. Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai just followed them at a moderate distance.

    "This brother-inw is actually not that bad," said Xiang Wai. "I heard that grandfather chose him for Raelle. Do you think he''d have chosen a husband for me by now if we were living together?"

    "No," replied Xiang Weimin. He had aplicated look in his eyes as he told her, "Raelle had a lot of freedom in her life. I''m not sure why grandfather picked a husband for her but I''m certain he wouldn''t have done the same for you."

    "Why do you think that?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "He isn''t really the kind of a person to impose his decisions on others. Dad said grandfather always followed the wishes of grandmother. Even the reason behind why grandfather doesn''t talk to Dad was grandmother''sst wish."

    On the other hand, Shui Xian was looking at his wife helplessly, "What was that?"

    "What?"

    "Why didn''t you just greet them?"

    "Who told them to ignore you?" was Raelle''s response. "Ignoring one of us is equal to ignoring both of us."

    Shui Xian tsked, "I don''t know what to do with you."

    Raelle pointed somewhere and said, "For now, why don''t you go and say hi to your favorite dog?"

    Shui Xian looked over and found Coco running towards him barking excitedly. He crouched down and rubbed Coco''s fur. Meanwhile, Raelle took a step away to maintain a distance between them. Now, that her dear husband had touched that dog, Raelle was definitely going to keep her distance until he took a shower.

    "Hi, Zhenzhen!"

    Lin Zhen was taken aback by how Raelle greeted him and almost took a step back. He stopped himself and looked at her, "Hi, Raelle!"

    "It seems you''re getting used to my presence," said Raelle. "Howe that Huang Shuyi didn''t seem all that concerned when he met me yesterday?"

    "He had always been a lot bolder than me," replied Lin Zhen.

    "But being the leader of the group made you a bit more cautious," said Raelle.

    Lin Zhen nodded his head in response.

    "Come with me, I need your help."

    Lin Zhen pointed at himself, "Me?"

    "Yes, you," replied Raelle. "Are you helping or not?"

    Lin Zhen jumped up, "I''m all here for you, President Raelle! You''re little Fai''s sister, that makes you our sister. I just don''t dare to call you sister with your status."

    "Thene and help me," said Raelle as she took him aside.

    Shui Xian was left looking at their backs, deep in thought. Why were they suddenly bing so chummy? And why did his wife was the one to start a conversation? Forget it.. She had her own thoughts that he couldn''t possibly know.

 Chapter 583 - Enter Her Life

    "So, Zhenzhen, take a seat," said Raelle as she pointed at the bench.

    "How about you don''t call me Zhenzhen?" suggested Lin Zhen.

    "Why?" asked Raelle. "Doesn''t it make us sound familiar with each other?"

    "It seems too intimate," was Lin Zhen''s response. "Besides, my grandma calls me Zhenzhen baby. Because I''m always a baby to her. So this name... it sounds too cute. Don''t you think?"

    "If you say so, Zhenzhen," said Raelle, and Lin Zhen was stumped. She still called him that which meant he could do nothing about it. Forget it! It''s not like he was losing a piece of his flesh or something.

    "How can I help you?"

    Raelle clicked her fingers and Aiden ran over to her side with an iPad in hand. He passed it to her and respectfully retreated. Raelle took the iPad and clicked open something as she showed it to Lin Zhen, "Hyson said that for this job, you''re the right person to look for."

    Lin Zhen''s brows knitted together but he still took the iPad from her and looked at the content carefully. He looked up at her and then his eyes drifted over to Shui Xian who was still ying with Coco. With a smile, Lin Zhen said, "You sure are an interesting person. But you''ve definitelye to the right person."

    Meanwhile, Shui Xian was oblivious to what his wife was up to. He was hugging Coco when this smart dog suddenly got attracted by something and walked over to someone else. Coco looked up at Xiang Wai and barked at her before rubbing its head against her leg.

    Xiang Wai was pleasantly surprised and crouched down to greet this happy dog. "Oh, hello there!" As if there was some kind of attraction to her that attracted other passing pets to take a look at her as well. Xiang Wai didn''t pay attention to it and even Xiang Weimin was used to it.

    He already knew that his sister seemed to have a strong affinity with animals. It had always been like that. He was too used to it by now. But he could see that Shui Xian was quite surprised and impressed as well.

    "Wow! Major is really popr with animals,"mented Shui Xian.

    "Well, brother-inw, I''ve always been more popr with animals than humans," was Xiang Wai''s response.

    Shui Xian''s lips curled up just because she called him ''brother-inw''. "Animals are a lot more sensitive than humans," he told her. "So being liked by animals is quite an aplishment I would say."

    Xiang Wai didn''t respond to that and asked, "Is this your dog?"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "Nope. But I often y with Coco when Ie here." He rubbed Coco''s head as he added, "She is a smart dog."

    "I can tell," replied Xiang Wai. "But is it okay for you to talk to us like this? What if your wife didn''t like this?"

    Shui Xian chuckled and shook his head, "My wife isn''t that controlling. She is actually pretty easygoing. So easygoing that it stresses me out sometimes." He took a pause and added, "In fact, you shouldn''t take her words personally. Everything she says isn''t always a personal attack. No, I should say that she doesn''t do personal attacks. She is unusually pragmatic. It can be off-putting to some people."

    "Is it to you as well?" asked Xiang Weimin from the side.

    Shui Xian shook his head at him, "Nah. That''s what I love about her. Her head is never in the clouds and neither it is on the ground. She is always somewhere in the middle. If you sit down with her, in minutes she''ll make you question your whole life. Her words are always bitter but always right on the mark."

    "Ge, he is a fool in love,"mented Xiang Wai as she pointed at Shui Xian.

    Shui Xian smiled at her didn''t try to deny it, "I sure am a fool."

    "Fai said Raelle doesn''t allow people to enter her life that easily," said Xiang Weimin thoughtfully. "How did you enter her life?"

    "Oh, it''s because grandpa pushed me into her life," answered Shui Xian. "He gave me the entry and I made my own ce in her life."

    Xiang Weimin furrowed his brows at those words.

    "It''s exactly as you''re thinking. You can only enter her life through two people. Grandpa and Yanyan. Maybe you won''t be the elder brother you want to be but you might find some ce in her life."

    This time Xiang Weimin took his words seriously. He found it difficult to understand Raelle but at the same time, he felt like she wasn''t all that difficult to understand. It was aplicated feeling that he couldn''t describe.

    "What about Yue Fai?" questioned Xiang Weimin curiously.

    Shui Xian thought of Hyson and had a helpless smile on his face, "Fai is Fai. If you want him to be a bridge between you and Raelle, it''s almost impossible. Fai and Raelle are just like two sides of the same coin. They are more simr than they appear to be."

    Shui Xian nced at these siblings before adding, "Major, you''re too impulsive in life, and Lieutenant, you''re too cautious in life. As for Raelle and Fai, they are both very straightforward in life. Major, you don''t know how to express your feelings, and Lieutenant, you like to keep your distance fromplicated things like feelings. But Raelle is someone who would confront whatever feeling is thrown at her."

    "She said she doesn''t have any feelings," said Xiang Wai.

    Shui Xian tsked at that, "It''s a shame though. She actually has more feelings than most people I have met in my life. But the difference is, her way to express those feelings and her understanding of those feelings is also different than most feelings. At the end of the day, my wife is just super special!"

    "Why do you sound so proudful?"

    "Because I am very proud of her," replied Shui Xian happily.

 Chapter 584 - For The Win

    Raelle didn''t know what Shui Xian talked about with her siblings and neither did she ask him. They just went home after the morning run and had their breakfast with B¨¤ as they usually did. Although the breakfast table was like a feast at the Xiang family, in the Shui family the breakfast was as usual.

    "B¨¤,e to watch us y?" suggested Raelle.

    Shui Koshing was about to enter his library but made a detour, "Yes! How can I forget that? I''m definitelying. I have to see my daughter-inw crushing that foolish son of mine."

    Shui Xian poked his head from behind Raelle and looked at his father, "Can''t you cheer for me even once?"

    "What difference would that make?" retorted Shui Koshing. "You aren''t winning anyway. I don''t cheer for the losing team."

    "And what if I won?" asked Shui Xian challengingly.

    "You dare?" gritted out Shui Koshing threateningly.

    Shui Xian mentally rolled his eyes at his father who was tantly warning him to lose the game. But then again, it wasn''t like Shui Xian had any ns to win. He was still not able to understand how he won in the horseback riding yesterday. And the more he thought about it, the more he felt something was wrong.

    Whether it was the technique or posture, his wife was better at horseback riding than him who only did it casually once in blue moon. So, it was a wonder that he won. It was like the blind cat caught the mouse. But this cat was not happy with his spoils. Not at all!

    Okay, maybe a teeny-tiny part of his was indeed happy but only because of the bet. He''d be seeing his wife at his office. How could he not feel giddy about that? It was definitely something worth celebrating.

    "Oh, but we are not betting today," stated Raelle. "We are just ying for fun."

    Shui Xian heaved a sigh of relief. That really put him at ease and he was even more excited for the game, "Then let''s go already."

    Shui Koshing looked at his foolish son and shook his head helplessly. Howe he never knew his son was like this? He was pretty decent once upon a time. But something definitely went wrong once he married Raelle. Oh, well, whatever! He was more than happy with this foolish son anyway.

    All of them arrived at the basketball court in the residential area where usually the teenagers yed but today, it waspletely empty.

    "Baby, should I tell you the rules?" asked Shui Xian.

    Raelle threw the ball at him which he caught with ease and told him, "I watched a video to learn how to y basketball and I also read all the game rules. I even watched a whole basketball match to get a better understanding. So, I think I can do it."

    If someone else had said it, Shui Xian might have some doubts but he had no doubts when it came to his wife. Even if she didn''t know how to y, she was definitely an ace by now in the theory of basketball. Because she''d never do things half-heartedly.

    Shui Xian started dribbling the ball as he said, "Then I should get familiar with this all over again. It''s been way too long for me to enter the court. Let''s see if I have gone rusty." He shot the basketball and with a beautiful arc, it went through the hoop. "Oh, it seems I''m not all that bad."

    "What''s there to be proud about?" came Shui Koshing''s voice from the bleachers. "Daughter-inw, show him how to shoot a three-pointer."

    "Okay," agreed Raelle and took the basketball. With ease, she managed to score a three-pointer.

    Of course, Shui Xian would never doubt her aiming ability. That brain of hers processed everything from distance, force, velocity, and whatnot before shooting that basketball. As for him, it had always been about the right feeling and the technique.

    *p p p!*

    All three of them turned their heads and looked at Mu Chenyan in surprise who came to not sit at the bleachers but stand and p. And then she even whistled like a hooligan and cheered, "Go, Elle! My Elle is the best! Go for it again!"

    Raelle''s eyes didn''t linger on Mu Chenyan''s familiar antics, she looked at Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin who followed her here. And even Grandfather Xiang and Yue also came with them.

    "What are you all doing here?"

    Mu Chenyan gave her a peace sign as she said, "We came to cheer for you."

    "I''m not ying in the Olympics," was Raelle''s response.

    Yue pulled at Mu Chenyan''s sleeve, ''Didn''t I tell you that this is embarrassing?''

    Mu Chenyan pulled out her sleeve from her grasp and added, "But I''ve done more embarrassing things. This is definitely nothing." She looked back at the court and said, "You go, my Elle! Go for the win!"

    "But I just came to learn to y though," said Raelle. "Why does everyone want me to win?" She looked at Shui Xian and added, "Or should I say, why do you all want my husband to lose?"

    "Because if one person has to lose, it has to be him," said Shui Koshing.

    "But who said someone has to lose?" was Raelle''s question. "Is it necessary for everything to be about winning and losing?"

    Shui Xian smiled at her and rubbed her head, "Nope. Life might be a race but it doesn''t mean you have to be a winner or a loser."

    "Especially when you''re in the same team," said Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan''s shoulders slumped down, "I shouldn''t have even started this. Why do I keep forgetting what she is like?" She shook her head and looked up again, "Whatever! I''m still gonna cheer for you. Do your best and learn well!" She took a pause and added, "But you can only y for half an hour. Your hands won''t be able to take more than that."

    "Just how soft am I in your eyes?" asked Raelle.

    "Very," was Mu Chenyan''s response.

 Chapter 585 - Ill Play

    Noticing how Shui Xian''s attention was on the bleachers, Raelle pinched his chin and made him look at her, "How about you pay attention?" She looked over at Mu Chenyan and said, "Just ignore her."

    Shui Xian''s expressions cracked, "Is it really easy to ignore her? I don''t think so." One had to know it was particrly difficult to ignore Mu Chenyan. Especially now when she was ying the role of an enthusiastic cheerleader. He had no words to describe this scene.

    But he still listened to Raelle and paid attention to her. The game began and it could be seen that Raelle wasn''t very good at it. She was good at a lot of things but outdoor sports were really not her field of expertise. However, it didn''t matter since Shui Xian was quite enjoying directing her around and ying just for the fun of it.

    He honestly hadn''t yed for a long time now. Years actually. So, it almost felt like he was back in his younger days. The only difference was that now, he seemed to be living those moments with Raelle. This thought put Shui Xian in a good mood. It was almost like Raelle was recreating those moments from his past and adding herself to those memories. Although Shui Xian knew that wasn''t her intention, he was still more than happy to think it that way.

    Raelle suddenly snatched the basketball from Shui Xian and tried to defend against Shui Xian, making sure that he isn''t able to take the ball back from her. However, it was as if Shui Xian wasn''t even interested in the ball since instead of stealing the ball from her, he hugged her waist instead.

    Raelle was still dribbling the basketball with a big human clinging to her back. "Hubby, aren''t you suppose to try and take the ball?"

    Shui Xian hummed and asked, "Baby, why are you holding the basketball?"

    "To make sure you don''t steal it away," she told him.

    "Oh, and I''m holding you to make sure no one steals you from me," he replied solemnly. "To you, the ball is important in this game. To me, you are more important."

    Raelle stopped dribbling the ball and looked at him, "Mr. Husband, you really know how to talk."

    Shui Xian grinned at her, "I''m learning well from you, wifey!" He even pinched her cheek as he spoke. He pulled out a handkerchief from his trouser''s pocket and wiped her sweat saying, "Look at you, you don''t even sweat this much when we are sparring. Let''s take a break and drink some water." But since Raelle still didn''t feel like taking a break, he could only continue with her.

    On the other side, Mu Chenyan''s face was twitching when she looked at this scene and said, "Remind me why did I think this would be a real game to watch?"

    Shui Koshing gave her a look, "What nonsense? Can''t you see the yers? If my son is ying against Raelle, there is no way he is taking the game seriously."

    Yue waved the foldable fan as she gazed at the court with a sweet smile and then typed her phone to let everyone hear, ''Those two are so cute! I definitely like this game better!''

    "Oh, I agree," said Shui Koshing as he rxed and looked at the pair ying around on the court.

    Mu Chenyan sighed out, "Damnit! I also think they are cute!"

    Yueughed silently at her best friend while Shui Koshing guffawed without any care.

    "What are they doing?" asked Xiang Wai to her brother. "Are they really ying?"

    "Nope, they are just flirting," came the answer from Mu Chenyan.

    "Well, whatever they are doing, they look good doing it," said Grandfather Xiang. "It makes me feel happy."

    Mu Chenyan''s face spasmed, "Elder Xiang, you..." She tutted to herself, "Forget it."

    While on the court, the husband and wife weren''t just flirting. Since Raelle was serious about learning, Shui Xian wouldn''t dare fool around with her. He didn''t have to worry about her scoring at all. So, he was left teaching her how to defend against the opponents and how to steal the basketball from the opponents. They were only two of them otherwise Shui Xian would have loved to teach her the importance of teamwork in a game.

    But considering how Raelle was never gonna y with strangers, he thought this was already enough. As they walked towards the bleachers to rest, Xiang Wai stood up and asked, "So, Raelle did you learn well? Or if brother-inw is not a good teacher, how about I teach you instead?"

    Xiang Weimin tried to pull her back down, "Stop it, Wai."

    "What did I do?" Xiang Wai looked at her brother. "I''m just trying to bond with our sister as you wanted me to." She emphasized the word ''sister'' unnecessarily for her brother.

    Xiang Weimin knew he won''t be able to pull her back now so he just let her be.

    "You want to be my teacher?" asked Raelle.

    "Yes," answered Xiang Wai. "Why? Do you think I am not good enough?"

    Raelle shook her head, "No, I''m sure you''re good enough but not everyone is allowed to teach me." Her eyes drifted around before they settled on Mu Chenyan and she thought of something. Pointing at Mu Chenyan, she said, "You have a match with her. If you win, I''ll let you be my teacher."

    Xiang Wai looked at Mu Chenyan who was dumbstruck since Raelle pointed at her out of nowhere. She only came out to see her Elle and cheer for her along the way. How did the situation turn into this? Was it toote for her to run back home now?

    "With aunt?" questioned Xiang Wai as she raised her brow at Raelle.

    "Yes, you want to y, Yanyan will y with you," said Raelle. "Right, Yanyan?"

    Mu Chenyan''s heart shuddered when she heard Raelle''s question. Could she possibly say no? Well, the answer was, NO! She couldn''t say no at all! Not when the person asking was Raelle Xiang! She was even willing to offer her life. How could she say no to this?

    "I''ll y," Mu Chenyan resigned to her fate.

 Chapter 586 - Bring It On, Kid

    In the end, Mu Chenyan had to get down and tie up her. From a cheerleader, she suddenly became a yer. This development was really not something she was expecting but it was definitely something she was unable to avoid either.

    As she stood across Xiang Wai, Mu Chenyan was in aplicated mood. She really was nning on going easy on this niece of hers just because she wanted to bridge the distance between them. But before she got on the court, Raelle had held her wrist and said, "You don''t have a chance to go easy on her. Yanyan, you have to win."

    Was it even a question whether Mu Chenyan would listen to Raelle or not? The answer was too obvious.

    She held up her hands together and said, "Dear niece, aunt has no hard feelings. But I really can''t go easy on you today."

    Xiang Wai was surprised by this move and narrowed her eyes at Mu Chenyan, "Aunt, do you think you''ll win?"

    Mu Chenyan straightened, "Chenyan doesn''t know how to lose." She wasn''t bragging at all. It was just who she had been all her life. She was always the winner.

    "Aunt, don''t forget you''re old now," reminded Xiang Wai. "I heard all about your legends but age is not something you can ignore."

    Mu Chenyan stretched her limbs and smiled at her, "Just because I call myself an olddy doesn''t mean I am really all that old now. Bring it on, niece. Hope you know how to lose!"

    Xiang Wai''s eyes shed with sharp light and she started the game. It had to be said that this game was intense unlike Raelle and Shui Xian''s match. This was the real deal where neither of the yers was ready to give in. Mu Chenyan rubbed her nose after shooting consecutive shots and looked at Xiang Wai, "No hard feelings, really!"

    Xiang Wai looked at her intently and then looked at Raelle who didn''t seem like she was concerned about this match at all. She couldn''t help asking, "All this just because you don''t want to let her down?"

    "I can never let her down," was Mu Chenyan''s response.

    "Why? She is your niece, so am I. Or is it that she is more important than I am?"

    Mu Chenyan shook her head, "Wai, you''re my niece. You''ll always be important. But Elle is not my niece. She is my life. She is Chenyan''s reason for existence. My purpose in life. It took me twenty years to find that purpose in my life. I am not willing to let her go at any cost."

    Xiang Wai was momentarily stumped. It suddenly dawned on her that herparison with Raelle was unjustified. As Mu Chenyan said, she really did love her. Even Xiang Wai could feel that she was very important to Mu Chenyan but Raelle wasn''t just important to her. Raelle was really Mu Chenyan''s purpose of existence. There was never anyparison between them.

    "That still doesn''t mean I''ll let you win," said Xiang Wai. "I have to take my little sister in as my disciple."

    Mu Chenyan chuckled at that and beckoned her, "Bring it on, kid!"

    Reality had proven that old ginger was still spicier. So what Mu Chenyan was older than her, she was still very much capable of winning. Although the score was a close call between these two women and that really made this match worth watching.

    "Sorry, kid! But my Elle can only be my disciple," said Mu Chenyan.

    "You''re just biased,"mented Xiang Wai. "But you''re really good. It seems all those legends of yours aren''t just exaggerations."

    Mu Chenyan tucked her hair behind her ear and smiled at her, "Chenyan never needed people to exaggerate anything about her. My legends are as real as me." She chuckled and rubbed Xiang Wai''s head like she was a kid as she added, "And you... You''re really good. I haven''t had so much fun ying in a long time."

    She was all smiles once she got to be so close to her niece like this after such a long time. It had been so many years since shest pampered this niece. She was dying to bring the world to her feet.

    Yue typed on her phone, ''That youngdy is certainly Chenyan''s niece.''

    "Are you saying I''m not?" asked Raelle.

    Yue shook her head, ''You were never a niece to her.''

    Raelle nodded at that, "Fair enough."

    "Your sister is really good," said Shui Xian.

    "I know," replied Raelle. "But Yanyan is still the best." And she wasn''t up to an argument when it came to this. After all, to her, her Yanyan was always at the top. No one could possiblye even close to her brilliance.

    Shui Xian leaned closer to her ear and whispered, "I still think my wife is the best. You again provoked your sister and pushed her at Yanyan. You''re so good, wifey. I''m understanding the depth of your schemes."

    "I''m not good. It''s just that sister of mine is really impulsive," said Raelle matter-of-factly. "She falls way too fast for my words. I don''t even have to scheme at all."

    "Maybe it''s because she is really unguarded when ites to you," said Shui Xian.

    "He is right," spoke Xiang Weimin from below them. "Wai is really unguarded when ites to people she really loves."

    Raelle looked at Xiang Weimin and stayed quiet for a moment. "Oh, no wonder she is so easily hurt by people."

    Xiang Weimin couldn''t say anything to defend his sister when it came to that. It was really true that Xiang Wai was impulsive and always let her guards down when it came to people she really cared about. But that was also the reason, she always got hurt.

    He suddenly looked up and saw the way Xiang Wai was looking at Mu Chenyan with a smile shing in her eyes.. He couldn''t help but smile when he saw it.

 Chapter 587 - Babysitters

    Cloe didn''t know how she ended up here. All she knew was that it was her boyfriend who got her into this. Yes, today, Cloe Jones, the most capable person on Raelle Xiang''s team was actually a babysitter. Was that some kind of a joke? No, it was not! She really became a babysitter today and it was all her boyfriend''s fault.

    Sincest night she knew that Cui Xukun had to babysit his niece and nephew today. And she didn''t think much about it until in the morning, Cui Xukun started coaxing her into going with her. And guess what? She actually fell for his puppy eyes. How was she supposed to refuse him when he looked at her with those eyes?

    Her iron heart had finally blossomed after years and now it was all soft and mushy for this guy who easily coaxed her into bing a babysitter.

    Cloe didn''t have a problem with it per se but the problem was that she couldn''t understand how she actually agreed to Cui Xukun so easily? Wasn''t she already a decisive person after being with Raelle for so long? How did she still fall for a guy to the point of forgetting east and west just because he blinked at her and smiled?

    "What a failure you are," Cloe knocked on her head.

    If Raelle knew she actually was so easily moved, she''d be disdainful to keep an assistant like her around her. But then Cloe thought of how her boss didn''t even know what disdain was, so she rxed. It didn''t matter.

    Cloe came to Soren''s vi with Cui Xukun. The same ce she had dinner with Raelle and Hyson thest time. The only difference was that today, Soren wasn''t home. He went out with his wife on a date leaving his kids to his brother-inw.

    "Uncle!" As soon as they stepped inside the house, two excited figures jumped on Cui Xukun hugged his legs tightly.

    Cui Xukun was obviously happy to see his niece and nephew as he crouched down and hugged them both, "Oh, what''s on your face, Sammy?"

    Little Sammy puffed up his chest and announced, "Today, I''m a police officer."

    Little Xena held up her hand and said, "And I''m the forensic doctor!"

    Little Sammy held up his toy gun to show him and told Cui Xukun, "Uncle, you''re gonna be the murder victim today. You''re shot by evil people."

    "Oh, I''m dying?" asked Cui Xukun feigning panic and fear.

    Little Xena caressed Cui Xukun''s face saying, "Uncle Kun, don''t worry. Xena will find out who killed you. I won''t let the criminal escape."

    Cui Xukun yed along with their antics and sprawled down on the ground saying, "Okay, I''m shot!"

    Little Xena tsked at him and shook her head like an adult, "Uncle Kun, there is no blood. How can your acting be so bad?"

    Cloe ced her hand over her mouth to hide herughter. But she was really amused to see how Cui Xukun was being disdained by such a cute kid.

    "Oho! I''m not as smart as our Xena," said Cui Xukun as he pinched his niece''s chubby cheek. "So what should we do about the blood?"

    "Simple, we use ketchup," said Sammy and ran to the kitchen to get the ketchup. He came back and was about to drop it on Cui Xukun''s chest when his sister held him back.

    "Bro, you can''t do that. If you spoiled another expensive shirt of Uncle Kun, mom will spank us both!"

    Little Sammy was instantly reminded of his mother and didn''t dare to act again. Cui Xukun shook his head and said, "Forget it. Just do what you have to do. Why think about that tyrant sister of mine? I won''t tell her that my shirt is spoiled. And if she found out anything, I''ll just let her spank me instead."

    The twins giggled at his words. "Uncle, mom will really spank you."

    Cui Xukun nodded his head, "I know. I grew up with her. She had always loved spanking me when I did something wrong. I''m old now and quite thick-skinned as well. Her spanking doesn''t even hurt anymore."

    "I didn''t know you had such interest, Xukun,"mented Cloe.

    Cui Xukun stiffened when he realized that he hadpletely forgotten his girlfriend was here. She had been so quiet that he really forgot he brought her here. What the hell?! Why was he talking so much nonsense?

    He smiled sheepishly at her and said, "It isn''t as it sounds."

    "Oh?" Cloe raised her brows in amusement. "If you say so."

    The twins also only found Cloe now and looked at her curiously. Little Sammy thought of something and said, "Uncle, isn''t this the pretty sister because of whom you cried for hours?"

    Cui Xukun covered his nephew''s mouth and pulled him back, "Sammy, don''t talk nonsense."

    "You cried?" asked Cloe.

    Little Xena seemed to also remember as she shared, "Yes, yes, Uncle did cry. He even told bro that if he stayed single for life because of him, he won''t let my bro go."

    "My dear babies, can you stop it already?" Cui Xukun was having a mental breakdown. Just why did he think of bringing Cloe here with him? Oh, right! He wanted to spend more time with her since they had confirmed their rtionship and he didn''t want to part with her so soon. Who knew he''d get himself into this?

    Cloe looked at Cui Xukun''s expressions and felt likeughing out loud. He looked so embarrassed right now. Poor him! Cloe ced her hand on his head and said, "Well, Kun, stop being sulky because of kids. I know you''ve had your eyes set on me for a long time now. Isn''t it enough that I''ve decided to look back at you now."

    Cui Xukun was stunned when he heard herment and looked up at her. She winked at him making his heart thump loudly against his chest. Oh, she was trapping him.. But wait! He was already trapped.

 Chapter 588 - A Beating

    "Pretty sister, you''re really pretty," said little Xena as she tugged at Cloe''s clothes to get her attention. Cloe''s heart melted when she looked at this cute baby girl. Ugh, no wonder that Soren loved to show off his adorable twins. They were really adorable!

    Cloe picked her up and said, "Honey, I think you are prettier."

    Little Xena giggled, "Thank you!"

    "How cute,"mented Cloe as she hugged this soft baby in her arms.

    "Yes, yes, pretty sister is just as pretty as our mom," said little Sammy.

    Cui Xukun held his forehead, "What do you mean by a sister? I''m your Uncle. She is my girlfriend so that makes her your aunt."

    Little Sammy tsked at his uncle''s intelligence, "Uncle, don''t you know that women don''t like to be called aunt? How can you be so dumb?"

    Cloe chuckled at how a kid was questioning Cui Xukun''s intelligence now. Cui Xukun wanted to say something but seeing how happy Cloe looked, he held himself back. As long as she was happy, did it even matter if he was called dumb or an idiot? He did not think so.

    In the end, Cloe and Cui Xukun both became part of Sammy and Xena''s little y. One acted as the victim and the other was the murder suspect. Cloe was repeatedly surprised by how thorough these twins were with their casual y. Everything had to make sense and everything was thoroughlyid down like they were really collecting evidence or something.

    The more she stayed with them, the more she loved the twins. And then it was bound to happen, "I''ve decided!"

    "What? To marry me sooner?" asked Cui Xukun cheekily.

    Cloe pushed his face away, "No! I''ve decided to go shopping!"

    "Huh?" Cui Xukun was confused. Where did thate from?

    Cloe pointed at Sammy and Xena who came down after cleaning up and said, "Just look at them. They are so cute. I can''t control my heart. My hand is itching to spend some money and dress them up."

    "If you wanna y dress up, they have plenty of things in their closet," said Cui Xukun.

    "That''s different," said Cloe. "Let''s go. I have to take them out." She went up to Xena and asked, "Do you want a princess dress?"

    "I already have plenty," said little Xena. "But it can never be enough. One more is still eptable."

    Cui Xukun rolled his eyes at his niece while Cloe was satisfied with that answer. She rubbed Xena''s head lovingly, "Then let me buy you a new one. Okay?"

    "Okay," Xena agreed cutely and even kissed Cloe''s cheek. "You''re really good. I like you."

    "I like you a lot too," said Cloe as she kissed Xena as well.

    "What about me?" asked Sammy from the side.

    "I like you too," said Cloe while she kissed him too. "I''ll buy you the newest model of the toy car."

    "But I like nes," told Sammy.

    "Then we''ll get nes!"

    Cui Xukun facepalmed himself. How did he not know that his girlfriend had a thing for cuteness? She fell pretty hard and fast for these two kiddos.

    However, he still stepped over to tell her, "Cloe, I know you like them but don''t do it."

    "Do what?"

    "Buy them stuff like this," said Cui Xukun. "My sister doesn''t like it. These two have a fixed quota of new toys that they can get every month after their monthly assessments. Jie doesn''t like to spoil them that much. She even lectures brother-inw when he doesn''t follow the rules and I can even get a beating. Let''s not do it, eh?"

    Cloe tsked at him, "If your sister has a problem, send her to me. Currently, I feel like spending money. What does that have to do with anyone? If I feel like it, I''m definitely doing it!"

    "It''s useless to try to talk you out of it, right?"

    Cloe nodded her head solemnly.

    Cui Xukun could only sigh, "Fine, then. Let''s go." He couldn''t just rain on her parade so he decided to just get a beating from his sister. It wasn''t gonna be anything new anyway. So, one more beating won''t matter. Let''s just make her happy.

    Cui Xukun didn''t know what he was getting himself into. Once they reached the mall, Cloe was like on a sugar roll. She made the twins try out a dozen of clothes and found each better than the previous one. How was it her fault that these adorable buns looked cute in everything? She wanted to just buy it all. Choosing one was difficult. For the first time, she realized Raelle''s mentality. Why waste time choosing one? Let''s just buy it all!

    Wasn''t it better to have it all? What could be better than one? Obviously, two? Or a dozen!

    That sleeping shopaholic in her was roaring today as she came out to y in this field. And Cloe who always had a budget for everything actually continued to splurge like money was just water.

    "You''re gonna spoil our kids rotten in the future," Cui Xukun couldn''t help but say.

    "You''re thinking too far ahead," said Cloe. "Who said I''ll have kids with you?"

    Cui Xukun clutched his chest, "Ah! That just broke my heart. How can you do this to my poor heart?"

    "Kun, you''re not a good actor," said Cloe.

    Cui Xukun immediately straightened up and leaned against her, "I don''t care. I''m already over the moon that you''re calling me Kun today."

    Cloe pushed him away, "Behave! We are in the mall."

    "So?" he retorted. "I want to hug my girlfriend. Is it anyone''s matter? No, it''s my own business!"

    Cloe held Xena who now wore a blue-colored princess dress with a beautiful tiara and said, "Let''s take a picture. Okay?"

    The twins were more than happy to go along with her and instantly clung to her. Cloe had to ask Cui Xukun to take a photo of who was sulking that he wasn''t allowed in the picture.. In the end, he still took a couple of selfies to include himself in the picture to make it look like a perfect family of four. Oh, the happy picture!

 Chapter 589 - Want To Steal You

    Cloe and Cui Xukun took the twins around the mall. Finally, the twins dragged them to the ground floor since they wanted to enter the fun zone where other kids were ying in that field of balls. With slides, hidden small climbing tracks, the ce was definitely tempting to kids who were energetic and up to fun at all times.

    Cui Xukun took Cloe to the caf¨¦ that was beside this ying area where other parents were keeping a watch on their kids and were also waiting for them. Ordering some bubble tea for the both of them, he looked at Cloe''s expressions and then followed her gaze.

    "Don''t tell me you also want to enter and y in there."

    Cloe cleared her throat and looked away hiding her thoughts.

    Cui Xukun smiled at her reaction and said, "Cloe, that''s for kids. Even if I want you to enter, they won''t let you."

    Cloe tsked at that, "That''s called ageism!"

    Cui Xukun pursed his lips but didn''tment. Cloe pulled out her phone and looked at the pictures she just clicked with the twins. She happily edited the pics and uploaded them on her moments. The very first person toment was Soren!

    Soren: What are you doing with my kids?

    Cloe: nning how to kidnap them.

    Soren: You dare?!

    Cloe: You really have no idea what I can dare to do!

    Soren: Anyway, my princess is looking so adorable in that dress.

    Cloe: Of course, she is. I chose it for her.

    Cloe: By the way, you''re on a date! Stop looking at your phone!

    Soren: You don''t have to remind me of that. Just take care of my kids. If anything happened, I''ll kill you!

    Cloe: We''ll see about that.

    Cloe was feeling smug and satisfied after this banter with Soren. It felt good!

    ....

    All the way in Movie City, Hyson was busy shooting his scene diligently. Even though he had to shoot the same scene 8 times, he didn''tin at all. By now he understood that his director, Amiah Jade wasn''t really targeting him. She was a professional director who had severe OCD. She had to have the perfect shots. Or she won''t clear it and move on.

    Hyson got used to it these days and only paid attention to seriously doing his part of the job.

    "Ok, pass!" came Amiah''s voice that made everyone breathe a sigh of relief. "Let''s take a break for ten minutes and move on to the next scene!"

    The next scene had nothing to do with Hyson, so he didn''t get his makeup re-touched and went to sit down under the shade. Holding a hand-held fan, He Rou skipped over to his side.

    "Yo! Why are you so quiet since yesterday?"

    Hyson opened his eyes to look at her and shook his head, "I''m not quiet."

    "Are you not sleeping well?" asked He Rou in concern.

    "I''m fine," replied Hyson. "You''re overthinking."

    "I honestly don''t think I''m overthinking but since you don''t want to me continue this topic, I''ll drop it." He Rou used to fan to blow at her face as she looked at the staff changing the set.

    "By the way, don''t you think you should pay less attention to me?" asked Hyson. "Everyone on the set is already keeping note of this. You should stop hanging around me."

    "Why should I? I like being around you," said He Rou. "You aren''t trying to create hype by associating with me. You''re neither trying to tter me. All in all, you''re not pretentious at all. And trust me, it''s hard to find a real person in this industry."

    "Then why did you join this industry?" asked Hyson curiously. "Youe from a very good background. I also learned that you majored in finance and had been helping your family business as well. Why take so much on your weak shoulders? Isn''t it okay to have a piece of the cake? Why be greedy to have the whole cake to yourself?"

    He Rou smiled at him meaningfully, "I joined this industry because I wanted to be an actress."

    "That doesn''t fool me," said Hyson straightforwardly. "You must have said this sentence so many times that ites naturally to you but at the end of the day, it''s a lie."

    "How can you say it''s a lie?"

    "I''m very good at seeing through lies," he told her.

    He Rou sighed out at his words and said, "It''s the first time someone realized that I''ve been lying for years. But I''ve been telling this lie for so long that I thought it really was the truth. Who knew one day the person who would remind me that a lie is a lie would be you." She looked deeply at him, "Why are you so good at it?"

    "You know my best friend doesn''t really have a clear concept of emotions," he told her in a low voice that only they could hear. "I''ve spent hours studying human psychology and emotions with her. I have spent hours ying out different roles to make her understand certain human behaviors that she wasn''t able toprehend on her own. I guess that really left me with some skills."

    "Wow! You must have spent quite some time and effort into this," shemented.

    Hyson gave her a look, "A rtionship always needs time and effort. And sometimes, even more patience. I have learned one thing in my life, patience is the real virtue. Even if it seems like it won''t go anywhere, you''d be surprised by where this patience might take you."

    He Rou thought of something and her eyes shed withplex emotions. She couldn''t help but agree with his words. Now that she thought about it, it seemed her patience also rewarded her. A reward she once didn''t dare think of was now hers. So, to say that patience might bring you surprises was something she''d wholeheartedly agree with!

    "Little Fai, I want to steal you!"

 Chapter 590 - Personal Attack

    Hyson hugged himself and slid his chair away from her saying, "You can''t steal me. I''m not up for grabs."

    He Rou chuckled at his response and shook her head, "Silly! But what should I do? I really want to kidnap you back home."

    "Sister-inw, you shouldn''t try to dig your own grave." He very thoughtfully suggested to her. "Even if you really seeded in kidnapping me, do you think my family is a joke?"

    He Rou tsked in disappointment, "That''s the problem here. If only your family was easy to deal with." She shook off these thoughts and asked, "How about we go to KTV tonight?"

    "How about a no?" was Hyson''s response.

    He Rou pouted at him, "Don''t be a spoilsport now. I am bored after working for days."

    "Then find a different partner to go with," said Hyson. "I''m not going. What if someone took a picture of us and created a scandal? I don''t wanna be involved with you at all."

    "Am I a virus?" she asked him. "Why do you want to keep a distance from me? Besides, we won''t be going alone. Of course, I''ll get other people to join us. Don''t be always cooped up in your room. Come out and have fun. Don''t you love singing? That''s why I especially chose KTV!"

    Hyson thought about it for a minute before agreeing, "Fine. I''ll join you. Now, stop talking." With that, he closed his eyes to rest.

    "Are you sleepy? So, you''ve really not been sleeping well?"

    Hyson peeled open his eyes and looked at her, "Sister-inw, please go away!"

    "Okay," although He Rou was really reluctant, she still went away. Anyway, she had to get her makeup re-touched since the next scene was hers. It was better to just leave now. She got him to agree toe out tonight anyway.

    Hyson suddenly stood up and decided to just go back to his nanny van. Li Xinxin opened the door after five minutes and passed him a drink, "Have some orange and strawberry juice."

    "Thanks," said Hyson and took it from her. He looked carefully at her and asked, "Sister Xin, you''re really not leaving?"

    Li Xinxin couldn''t help raising her brows at him, "Why are you so eager to send me back? Besides, I only have you as my artist for now. I can definitely waste some time here in this production."

    "But I thought managers like you liked to make more connections," said Hyson.

    "I already have enough connections in my hand," she told him. "Don''t worry, it''s not difficult for me to push you to the pinnacle of stardom with my connections and skills."

    "And what if I don''t wish to reach that pinnacle of stardom?" he inquired.

    Li Xinxin looked at him helplessly, "You''re really a talented but unambitious star."

    Hyson shrugged his shoulders, "I never had ambitions in life. Oh, wait! I only had one ambition and I have long aplished it." He had a small smile ying at the corner of his lips when he said that. After all, his only ambition was to make Raelle his best friend and he has long gotten that. In his opinion, that was more difficult than ascending to heaven!

    "Then you rest," said Li Xinxin and closed the door of the van to block out the sounds from the set. The peace returned to the enclosed space and Hyson sighed in relief.

    He sipped on the fresh juice and quite enjoyed it. He rummaged out his phone and scrolled through his social media. He only entered his close friends'' circle and the very first post already got his attention.

    He couldn''t stop himself and call the person who posted this photo.

    "Fai!"

    Hyson had to pull the phone away from his ear because as always Cloe''s excitement was a little too much for him. "Yo, sister, you''re really moving fast."

    "What are you talking about?" asked Cloe as she stuck one finger in one ear to block the noise from around her while the other ear had the phone pressed against it.

    "I say, you just got together and your kids already grew this much! The world is really a magical ce."

    Cloe rolled her eyes, "Oh, please! You... Forget it! I can''t even yell at you for speaking such nonsense."

    "Oh? Why not?" he asked curiously as if he already didn''t know.

    "Fai, as if you don''t know?" she tsked at herself. "How can I yell at you? My whole person just melts even when your name is mentioned. In fact, you are no different to me than these little kids around me. Wait! You might even be cuter!"

    "I''m suddenly questioning why I did I even bother calling you?" Hyson sighed to himself.

    "But I''m d you did," she told him. "I''ve been so worried about you. How are you? Don''t tire yourself too much."

    Hyson chuckled, "Stop thinking about me. Pay attention to the person beside you."

    "How do you know someone is beside me?" she asked him in surprise and even looked around to see if he was somewhere near.

    "Stop looking. I''m not there." Those words shocked her even more. "And I don''t have to be there to know who you are with. Those kids aren''t yours. And you have no one who has kids around this age. It has to be Soren''s kids. And considering how Soren is your boyfriend''s brother-inw, it''s not hard to guess that you''re a babysitter today."

    "The more I listen to you, the more I understand why you managed to be Chief''s best friend," she mumbled. "I''d be a pity if you weren''t her best friends. Considering how you both are so perceptive and think so far ahead within seconds. It''s scary."

    "It''s called using yourmon sense," he told her. "But it seemsmon sense isn''t really somon these days."

    "Hey, that''s a personal attack!"

    "Listen," he suddenly said. "I only called to tell you that I''m very happy with your progress. You''re a very good learner and I like that. So, learn well and I don''t mind if you have a kid by this time next year."

    Cloe spurted out the drink in her mouth when she heard that and heard Hysonughing as he said goodbye and hung up the phone before she could even react. Fuck! This boy was really not as innocent as he appeared to be!

 Chapter 591 - Thats The Spirit, Major

    "How about we all have lunch together?" suggested Mu Chenyan.

    "Yanyan, why does everything thates out of your mouth starts with food and ends with Raelle?" asked Shui Xian curiously.

    "My family''s dear son-inw, is your skin itching today?"

    Shui Xian cleared his throat and took a step back, "I was just talking nonsense. Don''t take it too seriously, Yanyan. Don''t stoop down to my level. You''re the mighty immortal."

    "I''m not an immortal," said Mu Chenyan. "I''m very much mortal and that''s why I don''t even mind if I''m being petty."

    "Good for you," Shui Xian gave her a thumbs up and decided to just keep his distance from her. What if she suddenly lost it? He''d be the one suffering. His eyes drifted over to find his wife and found her pushing Grandfather Xiang''s wheelchair as she left them all behind and continued to walk towards the home.

    "I think we should leave now," said Xiang Weimin when they were all about to leave.

    Xiang Wai also nodded in agreement.

    "Huh? Already? Where are you going?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "Well, we can''t just stay here," said Xiang Weimin.

    "Why can''t you?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Your surname is Xiang, isn''t it? What''s wrong with living in Xiang Manor? I don''t see anything wrong with that."

    "But I''ve been staying with the Zhai family," he told his aunt. "Dad asked Uncle Kuijun to let me stay with his family and they have been taking care of me as well. I can''t just leave like this."

    "How is that a big deal?" asked Mu Chenyan carelessly. "Ge has lost his mind to even go to the Zhai family for such a thing. You should stay at home with your family. It''s not good to be a guest at someone''s home for so long," she seemed to be doing her best to make her point. "Don''t worry, I''ll deal with the Zhai family. Just stay."

    "But Ge''s stuff is still there," said Xiang Wai. "Even all his meds are there."

    "That''s the worry here?" Mu Chenyan waved off her hand and looked at Shui Xian, "Son-inw, call that friend of yours and get him to deliver everything over."

    "You mean, Yannjun?" asked Shui Xian.

    "Do you have another friend?"

    "Ouch!" Shui Xian clutched his chest dramatically. "Yanyan, there is no need to attack me like this."

    "Xian..."

    "I''m doing it right now," said Shui Xian. "If you tell me, I''ll go myself to get all the stuff from the Zhai family home. You just stay the word!"

    "There is no need for that," said Mu Chenyan. "Just call Yanjun. He will deal with it."

    "Okay," Shui Xian also agreed with this fact and immediately contacted Zhai Yanjun. "He said he''ll get everything here in an hour." Shui Xian informed Mu Chenyan after his call was done.

    Mu Chenyan pped her hands and looked at her nephew, "See? Problem solved!"

    "Yeah, you shouldn''t even have anything to worry about as long as Yanyan is around," Shui Xian couldn''t help chiming in. "No problem can stay when she is around."

    "I''m very good at solving problems," Mu Chenyan spoke proudly.

    "But Papa says you''re actually even better at creating problems," Xiang Wai told her which cracked Mu Chenyan''s expressions.

    She smiled awkwardly, "You shouldn''t listen to my Ge so much. He knows nothing. He only knows how to cken my name!"

    There wasn''t much that she said but it was enough to prove to Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai that their father was right about her. She really had a very good rtionship with their father. Even though they weren''t blood-rted siblings, they were closer than most blood-rted siblings. Even after all these years, their bond hadn''t weakened at all.

    "Is there anything else?" asked Mu Chenyan apprehensively. "I actually don''t want to force you both to stay. I just get excited. But if you really don''t want to stay then..." She didn''t continue but her face dimmed instantly.

    Xiang Weimin hugged her shoulder, "Aunt, after eating your food, I don''t think I can digest anything. You brought it upon yourself so I''m definitely not leaving even if you kick me out."

    Mu Chenyan face lit up and she grinned like a fool, "What kicking you out? I don''t dare do that!"

    Shui Xian looked at Mu Chenyan''s face and shook his head helplessly. She really had no resistance when it came to any of these siblings. It was just that his Raelle still took the top spot in her life. Tsk. This woman really had too much love to spread.

    He looked at Xiang Wai and asked, "So, what about you, Major?"

    "I..." Xiang Wai originally wanted to leave. No, she wanted to stay but she also wanted to leave. This was such a conflict within her. But what should she do?

    "Don''t tell me you''re gonna make a run for it just because you don''t want to face your ex-boyfriend," Shui Xian lowered his voice that only they could hear when he said that.

    Xiang Wai was immediately on alert and red at him, "Who said I''m leaving? I''m right here! Besides, I''m already suspended! I have all the time in the world and I''m not scared of anything!"

    "That''s the spirit, Major!" Shui Xian patted her shoulder and walked away while suppressing hisughter. Oh, boy! She was really hot-heated and impulsive. Why was it so easy to get her so worked up?

    Shui Xian was whistling in a good mood as he walked back home when Xiang Wai jogged to his side and asked, "Why do I feel like you did that on purpose?"

    "What?" Shui Xian immediately pulled out his most innocent expression that could fool just anyone.

    Xiang Wai was also left confused for a moment when she looked at him like this.. Was she wrong? Was she overthinking? No, it still didn''t feel right! He didn''t have to make thatment but he did out of nowhere. And it definitely was for her to hear!

 Chapter 592 - A Promise Or A Person

    Raelle brought Grandfather Xiang home and took him straight to his bedroom to rest for a while. He had been out in the sun for a while. Although basking in sun was good for his health, he couldn''t stay in the sun for too long.

    As Raelle helped him to the bed, Grandfather Xiang kept saying, "This isn''t your job. There are people who can do this. Stop tiring yourself."

    "I am quite strong," said Raelle.

    Grandfather Xiang looked at her helplessly, "I know. I know my Raelle is very strong but this is really not your job."

    "I''m just taking care of my grandfather," was the only response she gave and that was enough of an exnation even for Grandfather Xiang who stopped talking about this.

    Raelle fixed the pillows behind him, put the nket on his legs, and even poured him a ss of water. Grandfather Xiang silently chose to enjoy his granddaughter''s attentive care. This girl might not know how to take care of herself but she was quite good when it came to taking care of others. And that was also because of her attentive nature.

    "Raelle," he called out.

    "Hm?"

    "Sit here with me," said Grandfather Xiang.

    Raelle sat down obediently and Grandfather Xiang took her hand in his own. He gazed at her lovingly as he started, "About your siblings..." He didn''t know how to continue but he didn''t have to either since Raelle was more than capable to understand where he was going with this.

    "I have no opinions," Raelle told him. "I never did. The fact that their surname is Xiang already gives them as much right to be here with you as I do. I can''t possibly have any opinions on that."

    Grandfather Xiang patted her hand, "Indeed. Our Raelle had always been a sensible child." He took a pause and added, "I just hope you''re good to them."

    "I''m always good to people," was her response. "It depends on people whether they are able to see my goodness or not. But at the end of the day, I think I''m a very good person."

    Grandfather Xiang chuckled and nodded at her, "Yes, how can I forget that. What I meant was, give them some time to get used to your personality. I''m sure they both will be very good siblings to you."

    "But Opa, what makes you think I need siblings in my life?"

    Grandfather Xiang sighed, "I know you don''t. But I want some peace of mind. I don''t want to leave you alone."

    "Isn''t that why you found me a husband to make my own family?" asked Raelle. "Now why do you want to add more people into my life?"

    "More the merrier," Grandfather Xiang replied.

    "No, more spells for trouble and I''ve never been fond of trouble," said Raelle. "You and I both know I''m fine with what I have." She took a pause and looked straight at him, "You should stop thinking about it and take better care of yourself. I still need you to continue patting my head for a long while."

    Grandfather Xiang felt his eyes burning when he heard that. One couldn''t expect the words of love from her but how could he not feel this love from whatever she said?

    "I''m not going anywhere," he rubbed her head lovingly. "But I still want you to give Weimin and Wai a chance. Don''t rigidly close yourself off."

    "Then Opa, why don''t you give your son a chance?" asked Raelle and stunned Grandfather Xiang. "You say it''s not Xiang Weimin or Xiang Wai''s fault that they hadn''t been in our life. But do you think it was Xiang Hulin''s fault that I almost lost my life right after birth? If we think about it, he was pretty innocent in that matter as well."

    Grandfather Xiang''s expressions changed once he heard that and he was left just staring at this darling of his family. How could she even say something like that? It pained him to see that even though she was the wronged party, she was still willing to think about everything so rationally. Thatck of emotion within her was always something that worried him.

    "But I can''t break a promise I made to your grandmother on her deathbed," said Grandfather Xiang after much difficulty.

    "Opa, I have a question." Grandfather Xiang had a bad feeling about this. Her questions were never good. And he was proven right when she asked, "Is it important to break a promise to save a person, or is it more important to keep a promise by breaking a person?" Grandfather Xiang was left speechless because he couldn''t answer that question. "Is the dead more important or the living?" She asked further. "For the regrets of a dead person, is it okay to throw someone into a living hell for a lifetime?"

    "I never had answers to your questions and I still don''t," he told her. "Because I can''t think like you, Raelle. You see the world in a way, I won''t be able to. Even though I''ve lived longer than you, I''m willing to admit that I might not be better than you."

    "Opa, you''ve always been the best to me," said Raelle. "I was just questioning. You don''t have to answer it. I don''t mind." She stood up to leave but stopped and said, "But Opa, I do know that grandma didn''t want Xiang Hulin to be my father but why did you stop being a father to him?" She didn''t wait for an answer and opened the door to leave saying, "Take care. I''ll call you for lunch when it''s ready."

    Grandfather Xiang was left staring at the closed door in a daze. Truth be told, he never had any answers for his granddaughter''s questions. She seemed to know how to extract herself from the situationpletely and look at it from a rational point of view.. But he wasn''t that capable enough to extract his feelings.

 Chapter 593 - Door Gods

    "Ge, how is your leg?" asked Xiang Wai when she noticed how her brother had been walking more and more on his own without support in thest couple of days.

    "Pretty good," answered Xiang Weimin. "I only applied the balm that mom gave me for a couple of days and it already is showing the result."

    "Anything thates from that woman is always a treasure," was Xiang Wai''sment that Xiang Weimin would never disagree with. "Well, this way you can recover sooner and get back on your duty."

    "I''m in no hurry," replied Xiang Weimin shocking Xiang Wai.

    "You? You of all people are not in a hurry to get back to work?" Xiang Wai was baffled. "Are you sick? Did you get a head injury? Or maybe you got possessed?"

    Xiang Weimin pushed her hand away that was trying to touch his forehead as he said, "There is no need for this much drama."

    Xiang Wai chuckled softly and shook her head at him, "I know why you''re suddenly in no hurry to get back to work. You don''t have to tell me anything."

    Of course, they didn''t have to say anything because they understood each other''s thoughts right now very well. After all, they both had the same thing in mind right now. It wasn''t surprising that neither of them was in a hurry to leave.

    As soon as Xiang Wai entered the home, she found a maid pacing around frantically, "Oh, Eldest Miss, you''re back!"

    Xiang Wai was a bit taken aback and looked at her cautiously.

    The maid smiled at her in a good manner and held up her phone saying, "Eldest Miss, your phone had been ringing for a while. I didn''t attend the call. I''ve been waiting for you here."

    Xiang Weimin looked at his sister, "You again forgot your phone?"

    Xiang Wai scratched the tip of her nose and smiled sheepishly at him, "Thank you." She said to the maid and took her phone. She scrolled through the missed calls and frowned deeply.

    "What''s up?"

    Xiang Wai shrugged her shoulders, "I don''t know. It''s just mom called me two times. Not just once but twice! Can you believe it?"

    "Why is she calling you again?"

    "How would I know?" she asked. "Usually, the call intervals exceed months but this is the first time she is reaching out to be twice in the same month. I''m almost unable to believe it."

    Raelle was going to go upstairs to her room when she found these two standing at the door and asked, "Are you both trying to be door gods? Why are you standing there?"

    Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai snapped out of their thoughts and looked at her. Raelle had already stopped looking at them and turned to the maid that stood beside them, "Lily, make me something to drink. It should be cold."

    The maid named Lily was left blinking at Raelle in a daze before she shuddered and bowed, "Yes, Missy! I''ll get it right now!"

    Raelle heard a peal of softughter and turned her head to look at Shui Xian who had followed her here.

    "What?" she asked.

    Shui Xian shook his head, "Nothing. It just looks funny how this little maid is always so jittery around you."

    "In my defense, I have never even raised my voice at her," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian held her hand as they ascended the stairs and nodded, "I know. My wife''s voice is always at the same pitch. It just doesn''t change much." But that doesn''t mean your words aren''t scary enough for a young maid like that.

    Well, he chose to keep his thoughts to himself.

    Raelle took Shui Xian to her room to freshen up after that basketball match. Since she had nned to stay here for lunch, she didn''t want to waste time on making a trip next door just to take a shower and change clothes. She had everything she needed right here. And since Shui Xian married her, everything was also prepared for him ordingly.

    Xiang Wai was looking at this couple until they disappeared from her view. She seemed to be lost in her thoughts when Xiang Weimin clicked his fingers right before her face and she snapped out of it. "What?"

    "What are you looking at so intently?" he asked.

    "Nothing," she replied. "I just think they have a very good rtionship."

    Xiang Weimin patted her head, "You''ll also find someone. Don''t think so much." He knew how much his sister yearned for love. So, he wasn''t surprised by the fact that whenever Raelle and Shui Xian were around, her eyes would follow the couple.

    Once again being in Raelle''s room, Shui Xian felt like he had apletely different feeling. When he was herest time, he was still curious and eager to learn more about his wife. But now, he was actually quitenguid enough to even pay attention to some details in her room.

    For instance, the simrities between their room and this room were just more than what one saw at first nce. He could see how the order of things that Raelle kept on the side table was exactly the same as she did over there. Even the things she kept were the same. There was still a book ced on the side table with a bookmark in it just like he sees every day in their room. The only difference would be that this book was definitely different.

    But what surprised him, even more, was the big photo framed on the wall right in front of the bed. He was staring at it in a daze when Raelle emerged from the closet. He pointed at the photo and asked, "How did thise here?"

    Raelle looked at their couple photo that was clicked under the wisteria flowers and said, "Didn''t you send the photos to Yanyan? Do you think she was only joking when she said she''ll get them framed?"

    Shui Xian understood immediately that this was Mu Chenyan''s doing. Well, then it wasn''t so surprising.. And now this room really looked like it belonged to the two of them.

 Chapter 594 - More Likely

    *Ding-Dong!*

    Xiang Wai was descending the stairs when she heard the doorbell. So, she simply went over to open the door. However, seeing the person outside, she momentarily nked.

    "Captain!" she only uttered after she came back to her senses.

    Zhai Yanjun took off his shades and looked at her with a smile on his face, "Oh, Major!"

    That was the only exchange of words they had. However, neither of them moved. Xiang Wai didn''t step aside and Zhai Yanjun couldn''t enter the house. So, he chose to just patiently wait until he was invited inside.

    Looking at Xiang Wai, he couldn''t help saying, "At this moment, I''m reminded of something Saozi told me before." Xiang Wai raised her brow at him inquisitively silently waiting for him to continue. "She said life has two sides to it like a coin. One day it''s heads and other days, the coin flips and its tails. Meaning, somedays you spend standing under the sun and the other days, you spend looking at the moon."

    "When did you be philosophical?" asked Xiang Wai as she crossed her arms in front of her chest. "And why I''m not able to understand what you really meant to say?"

    Zhai Yanjun continued to smile at her, "What I mean is just yesterday I stood on that side of the door and you stood on this side of the door but today, our positions are reversed. It just gives me a weird feeling." He took a deep breath as he added, "And I''m not the deep or philosophical one. It''s my Saozi."

    "I believe this Saozi is Raelle?" asked Xiang Wai in a strange tone.

    Zhai Yanjun didn''t hesitate and nodded in response, "It''s definitely her."

    "You seem to know her well," shemented sourly and didn''t even realize it.

    But Zhai Yanjun''s dumb self also didn''t realize it as he casually said, "At least, I know her better than you for now."

    "And you seem to listen to her as well," she added.

    Zhai Yanjun nodded, "Little Fai said you can never go wrong in life if you listen to Saozi. Besides, it''s fun to listen to her. Yes, she says some extreme things but her words make you always wonder if you''ve been living the wrong way all your life. In fact, she is a very interesting person. But only if you''re strong enough to not take her truthful words to heart or else, she''ll break you badly." He certainly looked like he could go on for an hour but he stopped and asked, "By the way, am I not invited inside?"

    Xiang Wai only then realized that she had been obstructing his way. She stepped aside and allowed him to walk inside. Zhai Yanjun pulled in the bags and entered the house.

    As they walked side-by-side, Xiang Wai couldn''t help asking the question that had been on her mind sincest night. "You went on a blind date with Raelle?"

    Zhai Yanjun paused for a moment before he resumed his pace while telling her, "Currently, I''m considered the vile enemy of the Xiang family all because I didn''t go on the blind date with Raelle. It''s true that I was supposed to have a blind date with her but I never showed up. That seems to have be the biggest dark spot of my life." He looked at Xiang Wai and added, "Isn''t it funny though? I almost became your brother-inw."

    Xiang Wai''s face turned ugly as she red at him. "What nonsense! What makes you think she''d have married you?"

    "What? Do you think she wouldn''t have liked me?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "Definitely not! What''s there to like?"

    He suddenly stopped and looked straight into her eyes, "Then why did you like me so much?" Xiang Wai was taken aback by this sudden question but he continued, "Ha? You can''t possibly tell me after all these years that there was never anything to like about me."

    Xiang Wai pursed her lips before spouting out, "My standards had always been low. But Raelle''s standards are high. She definitely wouldn''t have taken a fancy to you."

    Zhai Yanjun chuckled at her, "What happened? You only saw her once or twice and you''re already speaking for her? Don''t make your sisterplex look so obvious."

    "Who said I have a sisterplex?" Xiang Wai roared at him in anger.

    Zhai Yanjun was still chuckling as he said, "It''s too obvious that you have be a sis-con. Tsk. Tsk. Tsk. Major, I didn''t know you were this kind of a person."

    "Yanjun!" Xiang Wai gritted out. "Stop it or I''m gonna beat you now!"

    Zhai Yanjun nodded his head, "I also agree."

    "Huh?" Xiang Wai was confused when he suddenly said that. What the hell was he agreeing to now?

    "I mean I also think I need a beating," said Zhai Yanjun seriously which stunned Xiang Wai. "So, Major, find some time and I''ll allow you to beat me into a meat paste. I won''t even resist."

    "What?" she asked in a soft voice because she was still in disbelief.

    "I''m not kidding. I''m very serious. I think I deserve a beating."

    Xiang Wai stared at him, "Did you injure your head somewhere?"

    "No," he replied. "I just realized that I owe you too much. But I really can''t repay you. So, I''ll be your punching bag to allow you to vent all your anger. Even if it repay whatever I owe, it''ll give me some peace of mind."

    Xiang Wai looked at him weirdly, "Yanjun, I suddenly concerned about your..." She pointed at her brain and didn''t even have to use words to let him know what she meant.

    "Wai..."

    "What?"

    "I''m very happy right now."

    "Huh? Why?"

    Zhai Yanjun''s expressions softened as he told her, "You look happier than I have ever seen you before in my life. And not just happier, you look very rxed as well. You should spend some more time here. It''s definitely a good ce for you to be at."

    Xiang Wai was left staring at his back and pondering over the words he said.. She touched her face wondering if she looked happy? She didn''t think so. Then was something wrong with his eyes along with his head? That was more likely!

 Chapter 595 - Negative Digits

    "Elle!"

    "Yes!" Raelle turned to look at Mu Chenyan who called her.

    She looked troubled right now and pointed towards Grandfather Xiang, "Don''t you think something is wrong with Elder Xiang? He had been distracted even during lunch. I''m not sure what happened and what is he thinking about."

    "Oh, I asked him a question."

    That was all that Raelle said but it was enough for Mu Chenyan to get the gist of it. She was all too well familiar with Raelle''s ''questions''. They were never a good thing and they never ended well. After all, there were hardly any times when she or Grandfather Xiang were really able to answer her question even when she was a kid.

    And now that she was an adult, her questions had be increasingly difficult for both of them to keep up with. Lately, the frequency of questions had decreased but today, she again said something to Grandfather Xiang and made him question plenty of things, leaving his feelings in turmoil.

    And the culprit behind his turmoil aka Raelle, waspletely oblivious to what she had done.

    "Then let''s hope he figures out an answer for you," said Mu Chenyan and inwardly prayed for Grandfather Xiang.

    Shui Xian also was listening to them and couldn''t help asking his wife, "What did you question him?"

    Raelle didn''t think there was a need to hide it from him. Perhaps, he''d be able to answer her question? So, she recounted everything to him as well leaving Shui Xian stumped. Was he supposed to know an answer to such a question? Because he didn''t know at all! If anything, he was left staring at his wife wondering exactly how her brain was wired. Why were her thoughts never on the same wavelength?

    Shui Xian suddenly had a thought that if there was really someone who could answer her question, that''d be Hyson. Apart from him, he couldn''t think of anyone who could really answer herplicated questions.

    But for a moment, he also wondered if she was really looking for an answer or she just wanted Grandfather Xiang to find an answer for himself. Because the answer won''t have any impact on her life. It was different for the people around her.

    "Granduncle!"

    Grandfather Xiang looked up at the neer and gave a weing smile to Zhai Yanjun. "Ah, Yanjun is here."

    Zhai Yanjun hurried over to his side and announced, "Granduncle, I''ve aplished my task. I brought all the things from home as I was told to do so." He looked at Xiang Weimin and added, "Weimin Ge, you can check and see if anything is missing. If there is, I''ll bring it to youter."

    Xiang Weimin looked at his suitcase and then at him, "You went from the Base to home and then came here just for this?"

    Grandfather Xiang also thought of this and said, "You could have just asked someone to bring it here."

    Zhai Yanjun shook his head, "No way. How can I do that? My rating is already in the negative digits, I should put some extra effort around here." While speaking he had pointed towards Mu Chenyan''s direction who wasn''t paying attention to what they were talking about.

    Grandfather Xiangughed at his words, he was truly amused by him. "Yes, yes. You should put extra effort. Who knows it might work?"

    "That''s what I''m saying," said Zhai Yanjun. Then he ced a box of pastries before Grandfather Xiang and stated, "Grandpa asked me to bring it for you."

    "Oh," Grandfather Xiang opened the box and looked at the pastries with a hint of nostalgia in his eyes. "You should have brought him as well."

    "Grandpa wanted toe over but he and Grandma already made arrangements to meet some of his old colleagues. So, they couldn''te. But don''t worry, they might pay you a visit this week."

    "Then I''ll be waiting," said Grandfather Xiang.

    His impression of Zhai Yanjun was different than Mu Chenyan''s. That woman was unable to look over the fact that he didn''t show up for the blind date. Although she had softened up and was pretty good to Zhai Yanjun, it wasn''t all that great either. But Grandfather Xiang had long forgotten about it. Since Raelle was already married to someone like Shui Xian, he didn''t think much about those previous blind dates.

    "By the way, I heard you join your grandparents for the Qingming Festival?[1]"

    Zhai Yanjun nodded his head, "Yeah. Grandma pulled me along back to our hometown. I had time so I just went along with her." He took a pause and added, "But you didn''t go back to your hometown for the festival." He looked at Raelle and asked, "Saozi, you didn''t go either?"

    Raelle looked straight at him and replied, "I don''t go to cemeteries."

    "Never?"

    Raelle shook her head, "Never."

    Zhai Yanjun nodded his head, "Forget it. What''s good about Qingming Festival. It already passed a month ago. We should look forward to Dragon Boat Festival. I''ll bring you to eat rice dumplings then."

    "And why would I send my wife with you?" questioned Shui Xian.

    Zhai Yanjun looked aggrieved, "Because if she goes, only then can I drag Fai with me."

    "So, you''re nning on using my wife for your purpose?"

    Zhai Yanjun shrugged his shoulders, "Look at the bigger picture. Don''t be so petty. Right, Saozi?"

    "We''ll see when the Dragon Boat Festivales. For now, whether Hyson will be able toe back by then or not is unconfirmed."

    Zhai Yanjun also agreed with her, "That''s also true. We can wait for now."

    "If you all are nning for Dragon Boat Festival, don''t forget to bring Raelle to see the Dragon Boat racing. She had never seen it before. It''ll be her first time and you should entertain her well," suggested Grandfather Xiang.

    "Excellent idea," agreed Shui Xian as well.

    [1] Qingming Festival: It''s also known as Tomb Sweeping Festival when people visit the graves to pay respect to their ancestors.

 Chapter 596 - Melodrama

    Hyson had just teased Cloe not long ago and before he could finish the juice in his hands, he already found the next target! His eyes were glued to the screen when he refreshed the page and immediately saw the photo that Xiang Weimin posted on his Moments.

    The photo was of Mu Chenyan and Xiang Wai on the basketball court and it was obvious that there was a match going on. He couldn''t see Xiang Wai''s face since she had her back to the camera but he could definitely recognize Mu Chenyan without any problem.

    As for how he deduced that the other person was Xiang Wai, that was obviously because of Raelle. Whatever happened yesterday had all been known to him. So, he obviously knew that Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin hade to meet Grandfather Xiang. And he was obviously very happy about that and even praised his best friend''s cunningness.

    Since he found the new target, he didn''t waste any time and called Mu Chenyan.

    On the other hand, Mu Chenyan was still reminiscing the match she had with Xiang Wai and couldn''t helpmenting, "I should have had this match sooner."

    ''Are you addicted to winning?'' asked Yue.

    "Not really," answered Mu Chenyan. "But there is no harm in winning either. And I definitely prefer winning in life."

    ''I think your phone is ringing.''

    Mu Chenyan frowned and looked around to find where that ringtone was ring from. But she didn''t have to look for long since someone brought the phone to her that she had left on the dining table. As soon as she saw the caller id, she beamed.

    "My little squishy bear! How are you? Why are you only calling your Yanyan now? Do you even know how much your Yanyan is missing you? My eyes have be stones while staring at the door waiting for you."

    "HAHAHAHA!" Hyson could not stopughing when he heard that instantly after the call was connected. She was even giving him a chance to say a word as she kept going on and on. He found it so amusing that he had to clutch his stomach which started hurting fromughing so much. "Yanyan, I''ll choke on the juice if you didn''t stop this melodrama."

    Mu Chenyan tsked at that, "But you''re the one who taught me this melodrama."

    "Nah, I think you''re born talented," said Hyson.

    Mu Chenyan hummed in response, "I also think so. I was born a very talented person. It can''t be helped. No wonder so many people were jealous of me back in the day. After all, if the light is too bright it''ll definitely attract some moths. The same is the burden of a talented person. Especially, a beautifuldy like me."

    Hysonughed even louder at that.

    "What? Do you disagree?" she asked with a warning tone.

    "I don''t dare," said Hyson. "For me, my Yanyan had always been the best."

    "That''s more like it," she said with a pleased smile stered on her face. "Aiyo, my squishy bear, you distracted me. I''m worried here. Tell me, how are you doing? Is everything okay?"

    "If you look over the fact that I''ve been assaulted by mosquitoestely, everything is fine."

    "Which mosquitoes have drunk the blood of a tiger to bother my family''s little prince?" Her voice was so loud that everyone in the living room turned quiet and looked at rage-filled Mu Chenyan in silence. "Ugh! This is so frustrating! I didn''t send all those people to watch you get assaulted by mosquitoes now!"

    Hyson chuckled, "Yanyan, you said you didn''t send anyone to follow me."

    Mu Chenyan cleared her throat and with a guilty conscious, she denied it, "I didn''t send anyone. How can I do that? Don''t you hate being followed? How can I go against you?"

    "Oh, so you''re abandoning me?" he sounded so aggrieved. "You don''t care enough about me to send anyone to take care of me now? I get it now, you found your dear nephew so this god-son is not needed now. Ah! My poor life!"

    Mu Chenyan''s lips twitched but she listened to him in silence, "My little cutie, as always, I really can''t win in melodrama when ites to you."

    Hyson cheered up, "Of course! I am also a natural-born talent. You can never doubt my skills." He took a pause and added, "And just for the peace of your mind, I am fine. Everything is okay here. You don''t have to worry at all. I might not find the chance to call every day because I''m busy here but I''m still doing well."

    Mu Chenyan sighed in relief, "That''s good to hear. As long as you''re doing well."

    "Oh, by the way, I called for a specific purpose."

    "Oh, what is it?" asked Mu Chenyan curiously.

    "Who won?" he asked.

    "Huh?"

    "The match! You or your niece?"

    Mu Chenyan looked helpless, "Who do you think won?"

    "Well, I refuse to believe that there is a person who can win against my Yanyan."

    Mu Chenyan was obviously pleased by this ttering. "Then I have definitely not let you down. I really won."

    "That''s like my Yanyan! I''m proud of you!"

    "But I''m not all that great. I never managed to win against your best friend."

    Hyson was all too familiar with that. "What do you mean? She is a book expert. Of course, you can''t win against her in knowledge. But when ites to sports, she can''t win against you. Sports is not her forte. The only physical activity she takes seriously is martial arts."

    "But today, your best friend was also on the court," told Mu Chenyan.

    Hyson paused for a moment and sighed, "Was she there with Xian Ge?"

    "Yeah," Mu Chenyan smiled.

    "Then I don''t even have to be there to know that instead of ying, they flirted more!"

    "Pfft!" Mu Chenyan couldn''t hold it in. "Aiyah! You really know everything."

    "Of course, I do," Hyson purposely made himself sound quite proud of it.. And he had all the right to be proud.

 Chapter 597 - Stupid Brother

    "I have a feeling that Ellie is around you?"

    Mu Chenyan raised her brows and looked up to see Raelle looking back at her, her smile deepened. She''d really never be able to understand the connection between these two. But she didn''t want to either. Some connections were mysterious in this world and that also added a charm of its own.

    "She is," she told him straightforwardly.

    "Put the phone on speaker," he said to her.

    Mu Chenyan did as he said, "Done!"

    And then a passionate voice rang in the living room, "Ellie! My Elle, my dear Belle! I miss you!"

    "Scram!" came Raelle''s response which made himugh.

    "As if I''ll scram just because you tell me to. If I was so obedient, I wouldn''t be your best friend."

    "Are you implying that I''m disobedient?" asked Raelle.

    "Nope," said Hyson. "What I mean is that you''re too obedient. So, I bring disobedience into your life to make the perfect blend in your life. Isn''t that great? You see, I''m the imperfection, best suited with your perfection."

    "I say, when are you gonna stop talking so much nonsense?"

    "Nonsense is my specialty, I can''t just give up on it!" he retorted. "Forget about that. You didn''t even contact me in days."

    "We just talked yesterday," reminded Raelle.

    "We did? What are you talking about? I feel like it''s been years I haven''t heard your utterly devoid of emotions voice."

    "Now, you have," said Raelle. "Happy?"

    "Very!" he replied.

    "Fai, you''re really talented."

    Hyson grinned, "Xian Ge, I''m ttered."

    Shui Xian almost rolled his eyes at this person''s shameless behavior.

    "But Xian Ge, did you teach her basketball well?"

    "I did," said Shui Xian. "She is a fast learner."

    "Really? She had always been a fast learner but don''t get your hopes up. She won''t be sticking to a sport like a basketball for long. It''s not her field."

    "I''ve long known that," said Shui Xian. He wasn''t gonna delude himself to think that his wife was really interested in basketball because he knew she wasn''t fond of sports. Today''s matter was only because she wanted to make him happy. And he had to say, his wife was capable of doing all sorts of things just to make the people around her happy.

    "Since you both are there, I''m just gonna assume that my Opa is there as well," Hyson sounded eager when he said that.

    "I''m here," said Grandfather Xiang. He already had a big smile on his face since the moment he heard Hyson''s voice.

    "Opa! I have a question for you."

    "What is it?"

    "Are you happy?"

    Grandfather Xiang was stunned for a moment before he looked at Raelle and shook his head. "I am very happy."

    Hyson groaned, "Ah! That hurts. Opa, you''re saying you''re happy since I''m not here?"

    Grandfather Xiang so wanted to squeeze his cheeks right now. He really loved to talk nonsense all the time but he couldn''t possibly beat him. The most he could do was squeeze his cheeks!

    "Stop talking nonsense!" said Grandfather Xiang.

    Hyson chuckled, "I''m kidding. I''m just suddenly feeling delighted to know that you''re happy." He suddenly changed his tune and added, "But I''m currently very sad as well."

    "Oh?" Grandfather Xiang didn''t know what to do about him. His mood changed faster than the direction of the wind! "Why is that so?"

    "Opa, I''m so lonely here," said Hyson. "Shouldn''t I be sad? Your little prince is feeling wronged."

    "Dramatic,"mented Raelle.

    "Even if I''m dramatic, what can you do about it?" snapped Hyson at Raelle. "Ellie, stay out of it! I''m talking to Opa right now. Don''t get involved."

    "This is why I told my little prince is to not work so hard," said Grandfather Xiang. "Do you really think I can''t raise you?"

    Hyson tsked at that, "What are you talking about? It''s not time Opa. It''s my time to raise you instead. Guess what! I found something amazing here. I''m gonna buy it for you when I get the chance to. You''d love it, I promise!"

    "Why don''t you just take care of yourself instead of thinking about all this?"

    "He''ll be too bored if he doesn''t do that."

    Hyson''s brows furrowed together when he heard that voice. "Zhai Yanjun? Is that you?"

    Zhai Yanjun grinned, "Oh, hello, my sweet Fai!"

    Hyson growled at his voice, "What the hell are you doing there? Did youe to bother my mum again? Didn''t I tell you to behave yourself?!"

    Zhai Yanjun was very happy even though Hyson wasn''t saying anything nice. He still loved this boy whose fur always got ruffled when he was around. It was entertaining.

    "Ayi says I''m not a bother. She is happy to have me around."

    Hyson snickered, "Of course, she is happy! And your job is to make her happy. Do you think I''d have put up with you for so long if you weren''t of some use?"

    "Ouch! Do you have to attack me like this always?"

    "Oh, you should be d I''m just attacking verbally. If I changed my tactics, you''d be a goner!"

    "For some reason, you don''t sound very intimidating," said Zhai Yanjun thoughtfully. No matter what he couldn''t take Hyson''s threat seriously. How could he?

    "Oh? Is that so?" asked Hyson. "Ellie, show him what intimidation looks like!"

    Zhai Yanjun''s eyes widened, "Hey! That''s cheating! You can''t call for help like this." He instantly looked at Raelle and said, "Saozi, have mercy on me. I didn''t even do anything."

    "Should I do it or not?" asked Raelle.

    Before Hyson could speak Zhai Yanjun added, "Hey! Little Fai, let''s be reasonable."

    "I''m being very reasonable! And who said I can''t call for help? If you''re so capable you can too?" He had a scheming smile on his lips as he added, "But you''re gonna call Xian Ge for help, are you sure he''ll be standing against my Ellie?"

    Zhai Yanjun looked at Shui Xian and didn''t even have to ask. He knew this friend was of no use. Especially against Raelle.

    In the end, Mu Chenyan had to step up and say, "Okay, drop it all of you. Yue said that''s enough."

    Zhai Yanjun was instantly happy, "Oh, right! I do have help!"

    Hyson rolled his eyes when he heard thatment from this supposed brother of his.. Tsk. Why was he stuck with such a stupid brother?

 Chapter 598 - Home

    It wasn''t Hyson''s fault that he was questioning Zhai Yanjun''s intelligence. Even Raelle and Shui Xian had the same thought about him. This idiot didn''t even realize until now that his biggest card to y was his dearest aunt Yue Yue? If he wasn''t a fool, what was he then?

    After all, neither Hyson nor Raelle would go against Yue''s words. In fact, even Mu Chenyan was used to doting on her best friend. She''d more often than not give in to Yue Yue''s wishes. Just like Raelle had no way to have her way with Hyson, Mu Chenyan also didn''t have much she could do to Yue Yue.

    But now that Zhai Yanjun remembered his support, he ran to hug Yue and said, "Ayi, I''m being bullied."

    Mu Chenyan''s lips twitched when she saw him acting like that, "What are you trying to do by acting like our family''s Fai?"

    Zhai Yanjun looked at her innocently, "I''m making sure my Ayi doesn''t miss her son when I''m around."

    "She hardly even remembers her son when you''re around," came Hyson''s voice from the phone. "I''m so mad. I''m hanging up!"

    And with that, he really hung up. But everyone in there knew he wasn''t mad. He was just frustrated by Zhai Yanjun''s antics that seemed to always work with Yue Yue.

    "You, stop teasing my Fai," said Mu Chenyan.

    Zhai Yanjun hugged Yue Yue even tighter who red at Mu Chenyan, ''And you should stop shielding my son and spoiling him so much.''

    "I''ll continue to spoil people, what does that have to do with you? I have the ability to do so! Why shouldn''t I?"

    Shui Xian suddenly pped and gave Mu Chenyan a thumb up, "Yanyan is the boss around here!"

    Xiang Weimin had been listening to them in silence all this while and Xiang Wai was busy texting her colleagues. But even then, she was fully focused on the happenings around her. She was rather surprised by how the ce seemed to have lit up from that one phone call. She had already heard about this Yue Fai from her brother but hadn''t been all that curious about him.

    But now she was really curious to know what kind of a person he was and how he managed to charm every single person in this room? That little sly smile on Zhai Yanjun''s face wasn''t hidden from her either. She was so taken aback by this version of Zhai Yanjun. He seemed yful and happy. And the way he hugged Yue Yue showed his dependence and love for her.

    Xiang Wai wasn''t unfamiliar with Zhai Yanjun at all. She knew him all too well. And she certainly knew that he was an insecure person. He always yearned for love but he was equally scared of it as well. All because of his parents. And that''s why she actually never could hate him for not loving her. He never had this happiness when he was with her and perhaps, she never did as well.

    At the end of the day, she wasn''t a normal person either. She was also emotionally damaged like him. So, she obviously couldn''t bring him out of his gloomy world when she was also living in such a world. But the brightness and love in this family were different. It was something very new and refreshing to her. It was something that made her feel hopeful inside. It made her feel happy without her even realizing it.

    She was reminded of what Zhai Yanjun said at the door, she looked happy. How strange that even she didn''t realize how happy she was just being here surrounded by all these people.

    On her side, Xiang Weimin had his own thoughts. He was suddenly really regretting not being a part of this family. But he couldn''t me anyone either. The mey with himself. Back then on more than one asion his grandfather and Mu Chenyan had tried to reach out to him and Xiang Wai but they both stubbornly refused to follow them.

    But their young age and the people''sments really made them resistant to allow their grandfather an entry into their lives. However, even if Xiang Wai had not noticed in all these years, Xiang Weimin had noticed some small details in his life.

    For instance, he always knew someone was helping him behind the scene. It wasn''t obvious but very subtle. However, he could tell that the respect and attention he received right after joining the army wasn''t because of his father''s high status. At first, he might have thought that way butter on, he was certain that was not the case.

    As for Xiang Wai, since her personality was like Mu Chenyan, she was also fond of creating trouble from a young age. And she had created a lot of trouble. A lot of trouble which offended a lot of people as well. However, she always stayed unscathed. Xiang Weimin knew that Xiang Wai''s ability to create trouble was the same as Mu Chenyan but her ability to solve that trouble wasn''t at Mu Chenyan''s level.

    And yet Xiang Wai was able to continue being the same old self. Even when she joined the military academy she had gotten into a fight that could have gotten her kicked out of the academy instantly but she remained there much to everyone''s surprise.

    Seeing how Xiang Wai was looking at everything while pondering something deeply, Xiang Weimin patted her head and said, "Stop thinking so much now."

    Xiang Wai looked back at him and gave him a smile, "Ge, do you know what Papa said?"

    "What?"

    "He said, ''Congrattion! You''re finally home.''"

    Xiang Weimin was slightly taken aback when he heard that.

    Xiang Wai''s smile widened as she added, "I finally know why he said that. We are really home, Ge."

    Xiang Weimin took a deep breath to calm down his emotions and nodded in agreement, "Yes, we are." And then he continued to listen to the banter between Zhai Yanjun and Shui Xian.. He had to say this feeling of being home was certainly very good.

 Chapter 599 - Look, Birds!

    Meanwhile, Hyson threw his phone aside after the phone call and rested his head back. He lifted his hands to rub his face but stopped as he remembered that he was still wearing makeup. In the end, he just sighed to himself, "Ah! I can''t believe I''m homesick at this age."

    But he was and he couldn''t deny that fact too. He really missed home right now. When he said to Grandfather Xiang that he was lonely, he meant it. He was really feeling lonely right now. It was only natural for him to feel this way when he learned that everyone had gathered together on the weekend. How could he not miss home in this situation?

    However, that didn''t change the fact that he was also happy. Talking to all those people lighten up his mood and he was feeling better. In fact, even everyone on the set felt that he was a lot more happy and active in the afternoon shooting. Even if he looked tired in the morning shoot, he was all freshened up in the afternoon. It really surprised people.

    In the evening, he even happily took his manager and went to the KTV.

    "Sister Xin, don''t leave my side," said Hyson.

    "I should be saying that to you," was Li Xinxin''s response. "You usually don''t join these gatherings and now that you''ve taken the invitation of He Rou, it''s better to y it safe. I don''t want you to get into any trouble during this period of time."

    "I usually don''t get in trouble though," said Hyson innocently. "And even if I did, don''t worry, I can solve it."

    Li Xinxin eyed him carefully, "Dear Hyson, do you have a backer? Please, let me know right now so I can prepare for the future."

    Hyson almost toppled over, "What backer? Do I look like someone''s sugar baby? Look at me?!"

    Li Xinxin really looked at him and nodded, "With your face, I''m sure plenty wants to be your sponsor."

    Hyson shuddered at that, "I''m very capable on my own. I''ve told you before, I don''t need a sponsor. I am more than able to take care of everything for myself."

    "That means, you are hiding your real strength," Li Xinxin scrutinized him.

    Hyson backed away and avoided the topic by saying, "Oh, look birds!"

    Li Xinxin rolled her eyes at him, "It''s night. Where are the birds?"

    "They must be out there somewhere," he responded matter-of-factly.

    "Fine, continue to hide whatever it is. As long as you don''t get into trouble, I don''t care who you are."

    Hyson breathed a sigh of relief. His manager was very sharp and very good at her job too. He suddenly felt like he should just hire her as his personal assistant as well. Being Raelle Xiang''s best friend, how ordinary could he possibly be? Even though Raelle could take care of all his troubles, he actually didn''t need her to do so. He had been in this industry for too long to understand how it worked. He was capable of taking care of certain matters with his own abilities.

    It was just that he was also very fond of being low-key like his best friend. And since all his troubles were sorted out without him lifting a finger, he usually justid back and enjoyed himself. That didn''t mean he was useless by any means.

    "Yo, sister-inw, I''m here!" Hyson opened the door of the KTV room and announced. But he stiffened when he looked at the people inside.

    Well, there was He Rou with her manager there for sure. But he was taken aback to see Sora and Amiah as well. Why were all thesedies gathered here? Adding on his own manager, there were fivedies and he seemed to be the only man.

    "Hyson,e inside already!" beckoned He Rou excitedly. But Hyson didn''t move. He Rou had toe and drag him inside, "I''ve been waiting for a while. What took you so long?"

    "Didn''t you say it''s just you and me?"

    "But didn''t you say that can create some scandal?" retorted He Rou cheekily.

    Hyson sneered, "Oh? So this is all because of my words?"

    "Correct!" He Rou didn''t mind dumping it all on his head. She was more than happy to do so.

    "Why did you call me here when you havepany?"

    "To sing!" said He Rou. "To sing your heart and soul out here!"

    "Am I your mascot?" asked Hyson.

    He Rou patted his head like she was a kid, "Be a good boy, sister-inw will give you a candyter."

    "You really think I''m a kid?"

    "Aren''t you?" asked He Rou in a rather confused manner. As if she was just realizing that he wasn''t a kid. She suddenly chuckled when she noticed his expressions and said, "Aiyo, don''t be so angry. It''s Sora''s birthday today. I wanted to invite her out for some fun. That''s why we gathered. And since you''re like a little brother of mine, I had to ask you to join us. Besides, I was really hoping you''d sing a song or two in your heavenly voice."

    Hyson sighed out, "Exactly why was Zi Hong Ge like you?"

    He Rou red at him, "What do you mean? There is so much to like about me!"

    "I can''t see," he told her straightforwardly.

    "Oh? Then you should see a doctor! Something is wrong with your eyesight!"

    "My eyesight is perfect," said Hyson. "It''s just that love is blind and lovers are fools. So, I shouldn''t even question why Zi Hong Ge likes you."

    "Your words are hurtful," said He Rou acting like she was badly hurt by his words.

    "Really? That''s because I have always loved to damage people," said Hyson and just went to take a seat on the leather sofa but far away from thedies.. He really questioned himself, why was he here?! No wonder he didn''t want toe here, he felt something was wrong. Now, he was stuck with thesedies! Did he look like he had so much patience for the fairer sex?

 Chapter 600 - Encounter With A Ghost

    "Where are my kids?!"

    Just with that one roar, Cui Xukun ced his phone on the side and waited. It could be seen that the woman on the other side of the phone was still going on and on about something but Cui Xukun was counting minutes. Just as the five-minute mark hit, he picked up the phone and said, "Jie, I''ll bring the kids after the dinner."

    He wasn''t a fool. He knew his sister was mad right now since he was supposed to babysit her kids but he took them out to have fun. Technically, that was also babysitting but he didn''t tell his sister about it at all. She must be hopping mad since she didn''t get to see her kids at home when she came back.

    "Kun, are your wings hardening too much?" asked Cui Xuqing. "They were supposed to do their homework." Cui Xukun pursed his lips and didn''t say anything. Cui Xuqing sighed heavily, "Don''t let them eat anything too spicy. And don''t give into them and buy ice cream at this time. They will upset their stomach."

    Cui Xukun knew all these details well but he still interrupt his sister and let her continue. Once she finished her instructions, he said, "Jie, they are absolutely fine. Stop worrying so much."

    "I can''t help it," replied Cui Xuqing.

    Cui Xukun tsked at her, "You''re such a worrywart mother."

    "What did you say?"

    "I said, Jie, you''re the best!"

    Cui Xuqing almost rolled her eyes at his ttery and instructed, "Just bring them home right after dinner."

    "Yes, boss!"

    When he hung up the phone, he looked up at Cloe who was staring back at him. He smiled at her, "My sister worries a lot."

    "She is a mother," said Cloe as she shrugged. "It''s pretty normal."

    "It''s not actually," said Cui Xukun. He didn''t continue this topic and looked at his nephew and niece, "Hurry up and finish your meal."

    "Uncle, is mom very angry?" asked little Xena.

    Cui Xukun chuckled, "Not really."

    The twins visibly rxed when he said that. To them, their uncle knew their mother best. If he said she wasn''t as angry, then she definitely wasn''t!

    Right after the dinner, without any dy, he decided the take the twins back home before his sister''s anger took off from the runway!

    Getting the kids into the backseat, he opened the door for Cloe before running over to take the position of the driver. "Everyone, seatbelts on?"

    "Yes!" came the twin''s voice from behind.

    He looked at Cloe and smiled cheekily, "Should I help you with yours?"

    "I already am wearing it," she pointed at her seatbelt and he tsked at that.

    He swerved the car and pull it out of the parking. Just as he was about to get on the main road, his eyes caught sight of someone and he instinctively stepped on the brakes.

    Everyone was jerked ahead and Cloe looked behind at the kids, "Are you guys okay?"

    "We''re fine, pretty auntie!" said Sammy.

    Cloe just smiled at them. Somehow she really became the pretty auntie from pretty sister within the day and she knew the credit for that definitely goes to Cui Xukun. But she was curious what he had said to convince the twins to call her auntie instead of sister.

    "What happened?" she asked Cui Xukun.

    He was in a daze and rolled down the window, pushing his head out, he looked out and still could see the back view of that familiar figure. He was stunned knowing that he wasn''t mistaken earlier.

    But his mind was still notpletely into it. He was certain that he had just seen Tang Hebe but that wasn''t the shocking part. What surprised him was the kid beside her. Cui Xukun''s brows furrowed together as he was in deep thought.

    "Kun!"

    "Huh?" Cui Xukun snapped out of his daze and looked at Cloe. "What? What happened?"

    "You should tell us, what happened? Why are you distracted? You sure you can drive like this?"

    Cui Xukun was suddenly reminded of how abruptly he pressed on the brakes and looked guilty. "I''m so sorry! It was a mistake. I''ll focus now."

    "Is everything okay?" she asked in concern noticing the worry on his face.

    "I am," he replied. "I''m just shocked."

    "Shocked?" asked Cloe. "Why? Did you see a ghost?"

    "Maybe I did," said Cui Xukun in a joking manner.

    "Uncle, there are no ghosts," said little Xena from behind.

    "Yes, mom says ghosts are not as scary as people," added Sammy.

    Cloe looked at the twins in surprise, "Your mom is really teaching you both well."

    The twins grinned at her, "That''s what daddy says as well!"

    Cui Xukun smiled at them and started the car again. His mind was wandering off but he still managed to pull it back and drive with focus. He had his girlfriend and his two lovable and adorable niece and nephew with him. He couldn''t take a risk of being distracted on the busy road.

    Cloe could tell that he had something on his mind but she didn''t ask him since they had the kids with them. She continued to chat with the twins who still seemed to be full of energy. Cloe felt like her own energy had depted after the whole day of running around with them but these kids were still as energetic as ever.

    Ah! It was good to be young. She was too old now.

    She really felt she was too old since her life was so much like an olddy. All she did was work. And after work, she had no activities for herself. It was still better now that she had a boyfriend otherwise since the time she started working for Raelle, she really was living like a working machine. She barely spent any time on herself.

    That just reminded her, she had heard not even a peep from her Chief over the weekend. It was as if she vanished. It was very strange for Cloe who was used to hearing Raelle''s voice almost every single day in the past 7 or so years. She really wondered what she was up to but then thinking about her Chief''s husband, she dropped the thought.

    She definitely didn''t want to know what they were up to.

 Chapter 601 - Fell For The Tricks

    As Cui Xukun parked the car in the driveway, he looked at Cloe and asked, "Do you wannae inside?"

    "No," was Cloe''s reply.

    Cui Xukun nodded and alighted from the car. He started taking out the shopping bags that Cloe had bought for the twins'' today. Oh, his headache was growing while the number of bags in his hands was increasing. He had a lot of exining to do in front of his sister.

    Inside the car, little Sammy tapped on Cloe''s shoulder and when she looked at him, he asked, "Pretty auntie, are you gonna marry our Uncle Kun?"

    Cloe pursed her lips, "Maybe."

    Little Xena couldn''t help chiming in, "Please, don''t reject him. Our Uncle is a little bit of a fool but he is very good."

    Sammy also nodded in agreement with his sister, "Yes, yes, Uncle is very good."

    Cloe smiled at these innocent kids and rubbed their heads, "You guys should go inside now. Your parents must be waiting."

    "We''ll see you again, right?"

    Cloe nodded her head, "Yeah! I''lle to see you again. Or you can ask your Uncle to bring you to see me, okay?"

    "Okay!" Then they happily alighted from the car and followedden-with-shopping-bags Cui Xukun inside the house.

    Cloe leaned her head against the window and looked at them. Cui Xukun was still grinning at his niece and nephew and was saying something she couldn''t hear. Cloe was momentarily lost as she just stared at him. There was no doubt that he was a very good Uncle. She had already seen it today. He was so weak before the twins that if they said go east, he wouldn''t dare go west.

    Cloe actually really liked his rtionship with the twins. She had closed her eyes once they entered the house. But suddenly someone tapped on the windowpane and she opened her eyes.

    Rolling down the window, she looked at Soren, "What''s up, Soren?"

    "If you''re already here, juste inside," said Soren. "My wife would love to see you."

    "Nah," said Cloe. "Some other time."

    Soren narrowed his eyes at her, "You''re already together with Xukun and you''re very satisfied with him as well. Then why dy meeting his sister?"

    "And how do you know I''m satisfied with your brother-inw?"

    "You wouldn''t have spent your whole day taking care of his niece and nephew if you hadn''t set your mind on him already."

    Cloe was a bit surprised by his answer. "Oh? But I intended to just spend time with your kids. They just happened to be his niece and nephew."

    Soren shook his head at her, "There is no need for suchme excuses. If you wanted to know my kids, you''d have longe to see them. It''s not like I ever stopped you froming over."

    "Why did youe out?" asked Cloe. "Did Kun tell you that I''m here?"

    "No," answered Soren. "If he had said something, my wife would know you''re here as well. And she''d have alreadye out."

    Cloe didn''t think Cui Xukun wouldn''t mention it. But considering how she didn''t want to go inside, he knew that she didn''t want to meet his sister right now. And so, he chose to just not say anything. He must have asked his niece and nephew to not say anything to their mother as well. Cloe suddenly smiled to herself as she thought about this.

    "Then how did you know I''m here?" she asked Soren.

    "Just a guess," he told her. "And I was right as well. You''re really here." He thought of something and said, "By the way, did you just buy the whole mall? Why the hell would you buy so much? Kids don''t need that many things."

    "But everything looked so good on them," was her argument. "Also, how can I say no when they blinked at me with those big innocent eyes."

    Soren rapped her head, "Idiot! That''s the way they attack their opponent. And clearly, you''re not a strong opponent since you fell for their tricks. Tsk. What will you do with your own kids?"

    "I''m still unmarried," she retorted.

    Soren gave her a strange look, "Oh, I''m happy to know that at least you aren''t single anymore."

    Cui Xukun came out and looked at his brother-inw who was talking to his girlfriend, "Brother-inw, you should go inside now."

    Soren looked at Cui Xukun, "Did she reprimand you?"

    "No," said Cui Xukun weirdly. "Did you say anything to her?"

    Soren shrugged nonchntly and turned to leave saying, "Drive my friend back home safely."

    "You don''t have to tell me that. That''s my girlfriend."

    Soren stopped and looked at Cui Xukun, "You sound very happy."

    Cui Xukun cleared his throat and avoided his eyes before running over to get inside the car. Soren chuckled at his reaction and waved at Cloe, "I''ll see youter!"

    "Okay," said Cloe as she waved back.

    Cui Xukun drove the car out of the driveway while Cloe looked at him asked, "Did you really see a ghost tonight?"

    Cui Xukun''s body stiffened when he heard that question and he shook his head, "No, but the shock was greater than seeing a ghost. It was just someone from the past. I wasn''t expecting to see that person so I was taken aback."

    "Ex-girlfriend?" she asked.

    Cui Xukun chuckled, "No way!"

    "If it''s not an ex-girlfriend then who can make you so surprised?" asked Cloe curiously.

    "An old friend I have lost contact with," said Cui Xukun. "A friend I thought I''d never see again."

    "We can''t see only dead people again," said Cloe. "The earth is round. And it is sometimes smaller than you think it is. Trust me, the possibility of running into someone you never thought you''d see again is always high. That''s why I said, only dead don''te back to life."

    "You''re right," he nodded to himself. "By the way, can you help me contact Xian?"

    "Hm?"

    "Just arrange a meeting somehow?"

    Cloe thought about it before saying, "I''ll have to ask him whether he wants to see you or not."

    "Okay," said Cui Xukun and continued to drive in silence.

 Chapter 602 - Favorite Song

    If someone asked Hyson at this moment what he was doing here, he would have no answer. Because currently, he was also asking himself the same question. Why the hell did he agree toe here?

    Why was a handsome cutie like him stuck between women?!

    Did he look like he had too much patience for women? Because the answer was, NO! He did not! He was actually a very impatient person, even if it didn''t seem like it. His patience was only reserved for three women. And now, he was actually quitefortable with Cloe as well. But that was only because Raelle had a strong influence on Cloe.

    "Yue Fai, don''t just sit there," said He Rou. "Come up here and sing!"

    Hyson pushed himself up with a sigh and went up to the stage. "What should I sing? Happy Birthday?"

    He Rou frowned at him, "Don''t be so old-school."

    "Then what song do you want to listen to?" he inquired seriously.

    He Rou turned to look at Sora and asked, "Hey, birthday girl, what do you want to listen to?"

    Sora looked at them in confusion and shrugged, "Anything is fine."

    "Be specific," said Hyson.

    "You can just sing your favorite song, Hyson," said Sora. "I think all of us would be happy with anything you sing."

    "Am I supposed to feel ttered?" he muttered to himself but didn''t show it. He looked straight at Sora and asked for confirmation, "Are you sure I can sing my favorite song?"

    "Yes," replied Sora. She chuckled, "We''d also get to learn what''s your favorite song."

    Hyson raised his brow at her and didn''t hurry to select the song on the karaoke machine just yet. He held the iPad but narrowed his eyes to ask for confirmation once again, "Are you very sure that I can sing my favorite song?"

    "Stop wasting time," said He Rou and urged him to hurry up.

    Hyson shrugged his shoulders and looked at the iPad while searching for his favorite song. He had a devilish smirk ying on his lips as he mumbled, "Well, I gave you all a chance. Too bad, you insisted on this. Now, you can''t me me."

    Just as he selected the song, the title shed on the screen behind him, he held the mic and looked at the looks of bewilderment on all thesedies'' faces. But he chose to ignore itpletely and paid the attention to the music.

    ?? My friends don''t walk, they run

    Skinny dip in rabbit holes for fun

    Popping, popping balloons with guns

    Getting high off helium

    We paint white roses red

    Each shade from a different person''s head

    This dream, dream is a killer

    Getting drunk with a blue caterpir

    I''m peeling the skin off my face

    ''Cause I really hate being safe

    The normals, they make me afraid

    The crazies, they make me feel sane??

    The original song was sung by a female singer but he was singing it without any effort at all. As they let him choose his favorite song, he had to not let them down, no? They should get to see how special his aesthetics are.

    ??I''m nuts, baby, I''m mad

    The craziest friend that you''ve ever had

    You think I''m psycho, you think I''m gone

    Tell the psychiatrist something is wrong

    Over the bend, entirely bonkers

    You like me best when I''m off my rocker

    Tell you a secret, I''m not rmed

    So what if I''m crazy? The best people are

    All the best people are crazy

    All the best people are

    Where is my prescription?

    Doctor, doctor, please listen

    My brain is scattered

    You can be Alice, I''ll be the Mad Hatter?? [Mad Hatter Song by Mnie Martinez]

    People''s favorites in life always had a reason behind them. And just like Raelle, Hyson''s reasons for liking something weren''t all that different. Since Raelle associated her likes and dislikes with people, she cares about. He was the same. Take this song for instance, for the very first time he heard it, it reminded him of himself and his best friend.

    He had no scruples in saying that he and Raelle were equally crazy. He had sung this song to only one person before and that was Raelle. But it was without music since she''d definitely not be able to feelfortable with theposition of this song.

    Just as he finished the song, he shed them a smile and bowed gentlemanly. As he stood up, he even flipped his hair saying, "Hope you enjoyed the performance. Happy Birthday, Miss Sora!"

    He Rou''s lips twitched while Sora was staring at him wide-eyed. Li Xinxin was holding her forehead wondering what kind of an artist did she pick up? He was a treasure for sure. His voice was beautiful and breathy as well when he sang. It added so much charm. In the dark corner, Amiah held up a ss of a drink up to her lips to hide her smile when she saw Hyson acting like this.

    After singing this kind of song, he was feeling pleased to even wish Happy Birthday to Sora. He was really a unique piece,

    "What was that?" asked He Rou.

    "My favorite song," said Hyson matter-of-factly. "And you should feel honored, sister-inw, I don''t sing this song for just anyone."

    He Rou gave him a stinky look, "You! Couldn''t you sing a slow or more romantic song?"

    "I don''t romantic songs," he told her. "At least, I''m not very good at it. If you even check our groups'' discography, you''d notice how whenever it''s a love song, most of the lines are either of Zhen Ge or Zi Hong Ge. I take a step back during such songs."

    "Oh, I liked the song though," Amiah spoke up and looked at Sora. "Don''t you like it too?"

    "Well, there is nothing really wrong with the song," said Sora. She stared at Hyson and added, "In fact, I liked it even more in Hyson''s voice. You''re an amazing singer."

    "Thank you!" Hyson took thepliment acting not humble at all!

 Chapter 603 - Roll The Dice

    "Forget it, the cake is here," announced He Rou and took the cake from the server. She brought it to Sora and everyone gathered around her.

    Hyson waszily standing there when He Rou gave him a look, "Aren''t you gonna sing Happy Birthday?"

    "Didn''t you tell me not to be so old-school?" he questioned innocently.

    "Well, now I changed my mind," she retorted. "Considering we are all older than you here, it''s okay for you to be old-school."

    Hyson didn''t know what to say to that logic but he didn''t question and chose to just sing the happy birthday song everyone in the world was familiar with. Surrounded by the sound of his voice, the slow pping and cheering around her, Sora blew the candle while someone popped the confetti popper.

    "Sorry, I don''t have a gift," said Hyson to Sora. "Because my sister-inw didn''t tell me that we are here for your birthday." He took the mic once again and said, "So, I''ll sing a song for you." Before anyone could say anything he selected another song and decided to be serious this time.

    This time he chose a rtively slow song and made everyone sway with his voice. With a round of apuse, he smiled at them and got down from the stage.

    "I''ll give you a gift some other day," said Hyson to Sora.

    "How can you do that? Today is the special day," said He Rou.

    "Who said you need special days for gifts?" asked Hyson. "My best friend says you can give a gift whenever you want. Won''t your gift already make the day a special one?"

    He Rou had nothing to retort. "Boy, I can''t keep up with you."

    "I know," chuckled Hyson. "Not everyone can."

    "There is no need for the gift," Sora spoke up.

    "Well, birthday girl doesn''t get to choose that," said Hyson casually. He served himself a piece of the cake without any care and dug into it.

    "Pay attention to your weight," instructed Li Xinxin.

    The spoonful of cake that had yet to enter his mouth stopped and Hyson''s smile disappeared. He looked at his manager, "Sister Xin, you should care about my feelings. Let me give share a secret with you, I hate people who stop me from eating. I have good feelings towards you, don''t ruin it."

    "I''m just saying that for your own good," she said.

    Hyson ate the cake and hummed, "I know. And I''ll definitely think of a way to burn these calories. But that can''t stop me from eating calories. Not happening."

    Li Xinxin didn''t continue and let him be.

    "Let''s y a game," suggested Amiah. "Anyone up for the dice game?"

    "Let''s all y," agreed He Rou.

    Hyson couldn''t escape from it either and sat down with them. They all rolled the dice and in the end, the one with the lowest number had to answer a question asked by the one with the highest number.

    In the first round, the one with the highest number was Hyson. Proving his ridiculously good luck. The others had to take a shot and the one with the lowest number was He Rou who had to wait for him to ask a question as well.

    "Sister-inw," Hyson gave her an evil grin and He Rou had a bad feeling about it. "Why did you join the entertainment industry?" He shook his head, "No, scratch that. I don''t want to hear you say you actually like acting." He Rou was staring intently at him as he asked, "You joined the industry to chase your first love? Yes or no?"

    He Rou''s eyes widened while everyone around them stared at He Rou curiously. Even her manager couldn''t help looking at He Rou waiting for an answer.

    He Rou stared into Hyson''s eyes and felt like she didn''t even have to answer it. This kid already knew it. It was useless to lie to him. He seemed to see all that was unseen. It was just as her boyfriend had warned her. Pei Zi Hong told her to keep her guard up against Hyson and he always warned her that Hyson had a way to lower people''s guard and then he''d be able to see through your soul.

    He Rou cursed under her breath. She really had let her guard down seeing those innocent and pure eyes of his. What a deception! She took a deep breath and answered, "Yes."

    Hyson smiled knowingly and said, "Let''s y again."

    It was like only Hyson knew the details about that first love of He Rou while the others were suddenly itching with curiosity but none could just tantly ask any question. They rolled the dice once again. As luck would have it, Hyson was again the one with the highest number.

    And he wasn''t even surprised. He was used to his unusual good luck. It was unexinable but he knew it was there.

    The one who became his victim this time was Sora. She was suddenly nervous as she looked at Hyson. He smiled gently at her and asked, "How old were you when your first kiss?"

    Sora''s face stiffened and Hyson frowned, "Isn''t it a rtively easy question?"

    Sora sighed in the end and answered, "Fourteen. I was fourteen at that time." She didn''t add anything to that and avoided everyone''s eyes. She didn''t want to continue this conversation.

    Luckily, no one made it difficult for her either and they started the game again. Even after fifteen rounds, Hyson was still on the winning streak that made the girls look at him with hostility. He raised his hands. "I''m sorry but I have always been lucky. My best friend says I have dumb luck. It just works out for me even when it seems like it won''t."

    "Next time, if you''re the one with the highest number, the one with the lowest number will ask you a question!" said He Rou as she changed the rule of the game.

    "Okay," Hyson had no problem with this arrangement.

    And with this new arrangement in mind, they rolled the dice once again.

 Chapter 604 Last Dream

    <h4>Chapter 604 Last Dream</h4>

    And as they all looked at the number on his dice, thedies looked at him with aplicated look in their eyes. Hyson rubbed his nose and tried to hide his smile. He couldn''t help it. He was already familiar with his terrifying luck. He once even bought a lottery ticket to test it. Well, the answer was the same as right now.

    He won!

    Again!

    This time, he ended up with the lowest number while He Rou had the highest number. ording to their new rule, he still won which baffled everyone around the table.

    Seeing their using gazes, Hyson decided to just be a gentleman and said, "Since it''s the lowest number, how about we count it as I lost?" He looked at them as they silently just stared at him and added, "You can just ask the question, sister-inw."

    He Rou was startled awake from her daze and nodded her head. "Yes, yes. I''ll ask!" She lowered her head and mumbled, "But what should I ask?" It had to be said that at this table, she knew about Hyson more than even his manager Li Xinxin. So, she was at a loss now. From her time spent with him in the past few days, she also knew that he had never been in love and he never kissed anyone either. So, asking about such a thing was pointless.

    She already knew the identity of his best friend whom he loved to bring up in every discussion. So, she couldn''t talk about that either.

    She thought hard about it while Hyson asked, "Is it that difficult toe up with a question?"

    He Rou finally made up her mind and asked, "Do you hate anyone at the moment?"

    Hyson frowned when he heard that question and then shook his head immediately. "Hate is a strong emotion. It''s quite exhausting. And I avoid emotionally exhausting things."

    He Rou didn''t think she''d get to hear such an answer from him. But Hyson didn''t think there was anything wrong with his answer. He had always avoided love and hate. Maybe it was the influence of Raelle or his own childhood but he realized that hating even his childhood bullies was tiring and it drained him. And then he was left with no energy to act like the happy-go-lucky son he was to his mother.

    That''s why he chose topletely distance himself from such tiring emotions.

    Then the game continued. And once again, Hyson dominated the game with his winning streak. It got to the point that he was feeling a little embarrassed now since all thesedies were now drunk. Oh, what a sinner he was!

    He scratched his brow and suggested, "How about I let you all ask me one question each aspensation?" He couldn''t think of anything else. Was it really his fault that he won? Luck was also a strength and not everyone had it!

    His suggestion got the tipsydies excited and Sora was the first one to raise her hand to ask, "When was thest time you snogged someone?"

    Hyson''s lips twitched. This girl was being petty now. Since he asked about her first kiss, she just had to get back at him like this? Well, whatever, they weren''t gonna remember anything anyway.

    "Never!"

    "Huh?" Sora looked at him dumfounded.

    He Rou pped her arm, "You wasted your question! He never kissed anyone!" She pushed her back and said, "Now, my turn. Would you go back in time if you''re given a chance?"

    "No," he answered. "That page of life has already turned. There is no need to go back to it."

    "Even if you are going back to re-write it?"

    "Nope," he still persisted in his answer. "The rawness of the first draft is always precious to an author. What makes you think re-writing it fun?"

    Then he looked at Li Xinxin, "Sister Xin, your turn now."

    "Do you miss anyone from your past?" asked Li Xinxin or more like slurred.

    "I don''t," he told her. "I made sure to bring all those people into my present."

    Hyson turned to He Rou''s manager but that sister was so drunk by now that she passed out. Hyson was actually relieved to see that. And then he looked at Amiah and waited for her question. It can be said that right now, she was the soberest in the room apart from Hyson who didn''t drink at all.

    For a long time, she didn''t ask anything just continued to look at his face.

    "Director?" he called out to her. "Do you wanna ask anything?"

    "What was yourst dream about?" she asked casually thinking of a question.

    But Hyson''s whole body stiffened once he heard that question. Thest dream he had...

    Taking a deep breath, he tried to joke, "Isn''t it too nd of a question?" He didn''t lie so he chose to avoid the question instead.

    "Right, director!" agreed He Rou. "Be more serious here."

    Amiah shrugged and changed her question, "Then, do you think it''s easy to forget or forgive?"

    "Both are not easy," he replied seriously. "But if you have to choose one, I''d say forgetting is more difficult than forgiving. For instance, you can forgive someone for breaking your heart but your heart won''t be able to forget that pain. A criminal can be pardoned but the crime remains. It''s never forgotten."

    "You''re eloquent,"mented Amiah softly.

    "Am I?" Hyson rubbed his nape and stood up. "I think it''ste now. I should get you all back to the hotel."

    Even the soberest Amiah wasn''t able to stand on her own without the help of the sofa much less the others. Hyson felt a headacheing and shook his head. He opened the door of the private room and whistled.

    "Yes, young master!"

    Hyson looked at the person who appeared before him and smiled at him, "Bring the others out and help me get thesedies back to the hotel." After that, he turned around and looked at thesedies once again. Every single one was a piece of work. How can they drink so much?

 Chapter 605 Regrets

    <h4>Chapter 605 Regrets</h4>

    After Hyson brought all thesedies back to the hotel, he was super tired. He didn''t want to apany them to their room as well, so he let the people following him do this task. After all, he didn''t even know the room numbers of all thesedies.

    He sat down in the lobby to rx but suddenly stood up and took the elevator to the twenty-third floor to look for the restaurant. He didn''t even have a good meal tonight. He really wasted his night. He ordered himself avish meal and even asked for wine.

    Alone, he sat there and atefortably while sipping on wine. Well, it seemed more like he was gulping down the wine. His mind was really in turmoil. So, he picked up his phone and called the one person who wouldn''t question him.

    "Didn''t you say your shooting will end early today?" he heard the question as soon as the call connected.

    "It ended a long time ago," he told her. "I went to KTV..." and then he continued to tell every single detail to her.

    As he chugged down another goblet of wine, he heard her voice, "Drink moderately. If you got drunk, you won''t find anyone to spoil you."

    Hyson chuckled at Raelle''s words, "But I just feel like drinking."

    Even when he said that she didn''t ask him why he was feeling like drinking even when she knew he wasn''t that fond of drinking. He wasn''t even the kind of a person who''d indulge in alcohol once he became sad. So, it was actually rare for Hyson to drink like he was doing tonight.

    "Ellie..."

    "Yes?"

    "There has been something on my mind I wanted to say to you."

    "Are you reading to share it?"

    "No," he refused immediately. "If I shared it what if it..." ''became true.'' He kept thest two words to himself. Shaking his head, he said, "Ellie, you take care of yourself."

    "Okay," she agreed without any hesitation. "Today, I had a question but no one answered it for me. How about you help me?"

    "Oh?" He patted his chest. "You can ask me anything. I''m always here."

    "Which one do you think is better, breaking a promise or breaking a person?" she asked him in all seriousness.

    Hyson''s lips tugged up slightly when he heard her question. Of course, he''d expected only such questions from her. "Isn''t it the same, Ellie?" he looked at the lights outside and went on, "You break a promise and that''s like breaking someone''s trust in you. And if you break that trust, doesn''t that also break that person?"

    Raelle listened to him attentively and agreed with his words. "Then what if it''s a promise to a dead person? Would you still keep it so that the dead has no regrets?"

    "Dead already has no regrets, my dear best friend," he said. "Dead are already gone. Whatever you do can''t help them in any way or affect them in any way. Only living people have regrets and I don''t need to tell you that. You already know that."

    "I do," she replied. "Maybe I just wanted to hear it out loud."

    "Did something happen?" he asked her.

    "Not really," was her answer but she still gave him the details of the day. They couldn''t talk like this earlier when he called. She was surrounded by everyone and she wouldn''t share such a thing with him between people.

    Hyson suddenly chuckled, "Do you have to put Opa in a difficult position?"

    "I think he is used to it by now," stated Raelle.

    Hyson could only nod, "True. How could he not be used to it? Your questions had been following him for years. Sometimes I really feel bad for him."

    "Why don''t you ever feel bad for me?" she asked. "You didn''t even feel bad for me when we met for the first time."

    "You don''t need that," he replied. "Our family''s Ellie never needed anyone''s pity."

    "Well, that''s true," she agreed.

    "But I wonder why you suddenly brought this up?" asked Hyson curiously.

    "Opa was very happy today," she told him. "The kind of happiness that I have never seen before. And I know it''s because he could meet Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai. He looked a lot energetic as well. There was that..."

    "Will to live, radiating from him." Hysonpleted her sentence for her.

    "Yes," she answered. "If I knew these two would have such an effect on his health, I''d have long kidnapped them over to make my Opa happy."

    Hysonughed at that, "But that wouldn''t have made Opa happy." He took a pause and added, "So, now you''re wondering if bringing his son to him might add some more light into his life?"

    "Do you think it will?" she asked. "Because I certainly know that he still misses his son. After all, that''s his one and only son." She thought about something and added, "I never wanted him to give up anything for my sake. How can I ask him to give up on his son when I know what he means to Opa?"

    "But you were never the one who forced him to give up," Hyson pointed out.

    "Yes, I wasn''t," she said. "I just... want to do something to make him happier."

    Hyson tsked at that, "Do people know that the mighty President Raelle has such moments where she is at a loss?" He shook his head, "Ellie, you have already done more than enough just to make Opa happy. Stop it now."

    "If my effort can help him in living a day longer, I don''t mind."

    "Ah! You''re stubborn,"mented Hyson.

    "I just heard once again from Opa that it''s in our blood," replied Raelle. She looked at the time and said, "You should stop drinking now. Go back to your room and sleep it off. Whatever is on your mind, just stop overthinking it. Troubles only get bigger once we take them way too seriously."

    "I''ll keep that in mind."

    "Now, scram!"

    Hysonughed out loud and looked at the disconnected call.

 Chapter 606 Blood-Sucking Ghost

    <h4>Chapter 606 Blood-Sucking Ghost</h4>

    Hyson finally put an end to his drinking and paid the bill before getting up to leave. It was time to go to his room and sleep. While walking, he shook his head to wake himself up. He was drunk. Even if he didn''t drink much with thedies but he drank a lot just now. However, his condition wasn''t as bad as thosedies as well. He was still very much awake.

    And his mind was quite clear as well.

    He was leaving the restaurant with his own thoughts when he a voice caught his attention.

    "Why are you calling me again?" the man had lowered his voice to question.

    One couldn''t hear what the other party said over the phone but he replied with a snicker, "What do you mean that I can''t involve your parents in this? You are the one who forced me to involve your parents in this. Didn''t I tell you to sign the divorce papers peacefully? But you had to refuse my goodwill."

    The man waited for a while to hear the reply from the other side before saying, "You think I''ve been dragging this marriage because I still have feelings for you? Don''t be so full of yourself now. My feelings have long been exhausted by you. It''s because I respect your parents that I dragged this marriage. Not to forget that I owed your sister. If it wasn''t for that, this matter would have blown up long ago!"

    It could be seen that whatever the other person said really made the man angry. Trying to suppress his anger, he gritted out, "If you continue this, I''ll take this to court. I won''t lose anything apart from a part of my wealth. I''ll just consider it as if I donated that money to a beggar. But you... You sure you want to air the dirtyundry out in the open? It might reduce your chances of taking the office. Think about it clearly. Stop haunting me like a blood-sucking ghost. I''m at the end of my rope, I don''t mind hanging you up along with myself."

    It was this sentence that Hyson heard that caught his attention and his brows furrowed up. The voice...

    He stepped over and indeed, he found Zhai Kuijun leaning against the wall. He held his phone in his hand in a tight grip while his other hand was actually clutching his chest. His face was distorted as if he was in pain right now.

    Regarding this person, Hyson had no real feelings. He had no time to waste his feelings on him either but right now, he couldn''t ignore him either. If his mother found out, he''ll be the one in trouble.

    He tapped both his cheeks with his hands and took a few deep breaths before he walked to Zhai Kuijun''s side and asked, "Are you alright?"

    Zhai Kuijun was taken aback when he heard that question and tried to open his eyes to look at Hyson. And seeing him standing in front of him, he was even more shocked. What a surprise, he didn''t expect to see Hyson here.

    He tried to wave his hand casually saying, "I''m fine. Don''t worry."

    "Who said I''m worried?" asked Hyson in a soft voice but Zhai Kuijun heard it. However, he didn''t react to it. "Anyway, you''re still Zhai Yanjun''s father, I can spare some concern here out of goodwill since I''m just that good of a kid."

    Zhai Yanjun suddenly smiled at his words not knowing how to react but Hyson didn''t give him a chance to react either as he stepped closer and held his arm to support him. He helped him sit down and then loosened his tie. he also unbuttoned the first few buttons of his shirt.

    After that, Hyson poured him a ss of water and told him to drink it. He did everything meticulously to the point that no one could tell he was actually drunk right now. Even Zhai Kuijun could smell the stench of alcohol on his body. He could also see the slight ruddiness on Hyson''s cheeks as well. But apart from that, he couldn''t tell if this person was drunk or not.

    "Are you feeling better?" asked Hyson.

    Zhai Kuijun was still staring at his face intently. He didn''t know why he paid this much attention to Hyson but he just did.

    "Thank you, Yue Fai!" said Zhai Kuijun.

    Hyson raised his brow slightly, "You remember me?"

    "You''re pretty hard to forget, young man," said Zhai Kuijun with a chuckle.

    Hyson narrowed his eyes and sighed, "And here I thought you had a memory problem."

    "Huh?"

    "Nothing," was Hyson''s reply. "Are you here alone or with someone?"

    "I was here for a business meeting," replied Zhai Kuijun.

    "Don''t tell me you didn''t bring even an assistant with you?" asked Hyson questioning his intelligence. He was certain that he didn''t get his intelligence from this man. He was never going to believe that!

    "I did," replied Zhai Kuijun. "But after the meeting ended, I asked my assistant to take our business partners to their hotel. He hadn''te back yet."

    "Oh," said Hyson and pulled out another chair to sit down.

    "What are you doing?" asked Zhai Kuijun curiously.

    "Waiting with you," replied Hyson in a matter-of-factly matter. "Or else, what if something happened when I leave? How would I answer my mu... Cough! I mean, how am I gonna answer Zhai Yanjun or even Xiang Weimin? So, I''d rather just wait here for your assistant."

    Zhai Kuijun didn''t know why but at this moment he found this young man to be quite adorable. So adorable that he forgot about his earlier anger brought by his infuriating wife. He was really angry when he received the call from her. To the point that he almost had a stroke because of it. His breathing was harsh and he was sweating so much when Hyson found him. If he didn''te, Zhai Kuijun would have copsed there.

    But the thing was, Hyson, dide even when it didn''t really have anything to do with him.

 Chapter 607 Your Son

    <h4>Chapter 607 Your Son</h4>

    Zhai Kuijun didn''t even realize when his heart had settled by just looking at Hyson sitting here with him. "I didn''t notice it before but you actually look like my Yanjun."

    Hyson''s eyes shed with inexplicable emotion. Indeed, he had heard this before. But he actually didn''t notice this simrity at all. It was only when Shui Koshing told him that when Zhai Yanjun was a teenager, his features looked a lot like Hyson. It was only after puberty that Zhai Yanjun''s features looked more and more like his father.

    "You must be mistaken," said Hyson to avoid this topic. He wasn''t in the mood to have a heart-to-heart with this person who was his father. It would have been easier to interact with Zhai Kuijun if Hyson didn''t know that this man was his father. For a moment Hyson wished he wasn''t as perceptive as he was.

    But the problem was, this perception and keen senses were developed from his childhood. He couldn''t help it either. He just had to live with it now.

    "I don''t think so," muttered Zhai Kuijun to himself.

    Suddenly, he heard some hurried footsteps and was surprised to see two people leading a man who held a medicine bag. The man looked like he had just woken up. His hair was disheveled and he even wore the pajamas he had been sleeping in. Half-asleep, he still followed the two men and approached Hyson and Zhai Kuijun.

    "Who is the patient?"

    Hyson stood up and pointed at Zhai Kuijun who was once again surprised.

    "I don''t need a doctor," protested Zhai Kuijun.

    "That''s not for you to decide," was the only thing Hyson said.

    Zhai Kuijun could only let the doctor check him while he stared at Hyson once again. Howe he didn''t even realize that Hyson called for a doctor? And where did he find this doctor at this time? And so soon?

    On the other hand, Hyson also didn''t know where these men found this doctor. He only texted them to find him a doctor. The rest was none of his concern at all. And that''s why he didn''t know that these men first inquired in the hotel to see if any doctor was staying there and once they found one, they actually woke him up at this time.

    Although the doctor looked half-asleep, he was very good at his job. After the check-up, he looked at Zhai Kuijun and said, "Your blood pressure is high. You must have been stressedtely. It''s not good for your health. You should take it easy and rest a while. Spend more time doing things that help in de-stressing you. Don''t overthink, don''t overwork. Take it easy."

    After that, he stood up and sighed, "I''ve written some medicine for you to take. For now, you aren''t in any danger." He gave the prescription to Hyson naturally and looked at Zhai Kuijun and said, "Your son is really something. It''s not nice to wake me up at this time."

    "First of all, I''m not his son," said Hyson immediately. "And secondly, you could have refused toe."

    The doctor looked at the two men whom he followed here and then looked back at Hyson, "I don''t dare."

    Hyson smiled innocently, "I can''t do anything about that."

    Meanwhile, Zhai Kuijun was still stuck on the doctor''s ''Your son''. He didn''t know why his eyes couldn''t help wandering back to Hyson''s face when he heard thatment. "Son?" He mumbled to himself and shook his head.

    "You guys can see the doctor out," said Hyson and the strong men bowed their heads to indicate that they heard it. Then he turned to Zhai Kuijun and said, "I''ve asked them, they''ll get your medicine in a while."

    "Why are you doing this?" asked Zhai Kuijun.

    "Didn''t I tell you? I''m a good boy," said Hyson with a sweet smile. "My mum raised me as one."

    "Oh, then I''d love to meet your mother to learn how she managed to raise a son like you,"mented Zhai Kuijun with interest.

    Hyson''s face stiffened and he looked at Zhai Kuijun vigntly, "There is no need for that. My mum doesn''t like meeting strangers."

    Zhai Kuijun might not be as perceptive as Hyson but even he could tell that Hyson was suddenly very vignt. But why? Weren''t they just talking about his mother? He didn''t want him to meet his mother? Zhai Kuijun frowned at this thought. Why was that so?

    But he didn''t dwell on it anymore.

    Soon, his assistant came back and Hyson was ready to leave, "Well, I''m done here." He turned to leave while rubbing his forehead but stopped and said, "Take care of yourself!" With that, he left.

    Zhai Kuijun''s eyes followed his figure until he disappeared from his sight. He had to say more than the first two meetings, this young man left an impression on his tonight. It was a strong impression. And it also made him realize why his son and even Xiang Weimin had befriended him so soon.

    This kind of person was like a treasure. Hard toe by. So, once you find him, you''d want to treasure him.

    Hyson just reached his room when he heard, "Young master, we sent the medicine to that man."

    "Okay," answered Hyson.

    "Do you want anything else?"

    "Buy me a sobering drink," said Hyson. "What''s the point of drinking so much alone. It wasn''t even fun at all and in the end, I became nosy as well." As he used his card to open the door, he was still ming the alcohol in his system for being nosy enough to go over and check up on Zhai Kuijun.

    He would like to believe that on normal days, he wouldn''t have done that. But anyone who knew him a little would know that he''d have still done the same thing as he did just now. It wasn''t much different than what he did for Xiang Weimin when they were stuck in the snow together. He was just that kind of a person even if he didn''t want to ept it.

 Chapter 608 Thick-Skinned

    <h4>Chapter 608 Thick-Skinned</h4>

    Early in the morning, Mu Chenyan had a puzzled look on her face as she silently pondered on something. It really made even the servants'' heads turn to give her another look. It needed to be mentioned that Mu Chenyan was the most carefree person in this family. Things like thinking were not her thing. She''d rather do it first and thinkter.

    The proof of that was when she once caught a thief in her youth. She first beat him up and only after asked about the situation making people around her wonder if she was really teaching the thief a lesson or just wanted a punching bag?

    But it really had to be said that none dared to go over and question Mu Chenyan. Only Yue Yue stepped up and tapped her shoulder to get her attention.

    ''What are you thinking so deeply?''

    Mu Chenyan looked at her best friend and pouted, "I... Actually, it''s about my niece."

    ''I should have known. For the past two days, you only have your niece and nephew on your mind.''

    Mu Chenyan didn''t pay attention to her words and continued, "It''s that although I had a big hand behind Wai''s suspension, her suspension wasn''t for this long. But seeing how leisurely she is this morning, it seems she is still not nning on going back to work. I''m a little confused."

    Yue Yue almost rolled her eyes and rapped her head, ''Why are you thinking about this? Just ask her.''

    Mu Chenyan nodded in agreement. She should really ask unless she got a headache from thinking so much. But when she sat in front of Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin after breakfast, she couldn''t bring herself to speak. She was really too cautious before these two in fear that she might say something wrong.

    And she knew she was very capable of saying wrong things.

    Seeing her tapping on the table, both siblings shared a look before Xiang Wai asked, "Aunt, is something on my face?"

    "Huh? No," answered Mu Chenyan.

    "Then stop looking," said Xiang Wai. "If you continued to look so intently, flowers might bloom on my face."

    Mu Chenyan gave a hollowugh as shemented, "You have a bad sense of humor. But I guess that also runs in the blood." That was the first thing that came to her mind. After all, no one in this Xiang family had a good sense of humor. They were all too sober and none had the humourous personality like Hyson.

    "Aunt, if you say it like that, I''ll be hurt," said Xiang Wai.

    Mu Chenyan was startled, "What? Did I say something wrong? Don''t take it to heart. I didn''t mean to hurt you."

    Both Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai actually felt a bit distressed seeing her like this.

    "Auntie, I have long heard from dad that you have never been cautious in life," said Xiang Weimin. "Why are you so cautious around us?"

    "Well, Gege didn''t lie to you," said Mu Chenyan. "I have always had a casual and carefree personality. As for being cautious right now, I just... don''t want to hurt you both with my wrong words."

    "Do we look that fragile to you?" asked Xiang Wai. "We have thick skin, we don''t get hurt so easily." Thanks to their maternal family, they were indeed quite thick-skinned after all these years. Besides, you can''t possibly survive in the army as a thin-skinned person either.

    "Wai is right," agreed Xiang Weimin. "If you have something to say, just say it."

    "Then..." Mu Chenyan looked at both of them and finally settled her eyes on Xiang Wai, "Xiao Wai, why aren''t you back on duty?"

    "Didn''t you get me suspended?"

    Mu Chenyan stiffened and smiled awkwardly, "That..." She coughed unnaturally and continued, "But I made sure themittee doesn''t suspend you for this long."

    Xiang Wai was amused by Mu Chenyan''s expressions and decided not to continue being a bitch. Yes, she knew she had a habit of acting like one once in a while. She couldn''t help it. Her snarkiness was honed after years of jabs thrown in the Song family. She just couldn''t stop it all at once.

    "I took vacations," she answered Mu Chenyan. "Since the time I joined the army, I have never taken any of my yearly vacations. So, this year, I decided to add them all and use it all at once."

    "Really?" Mu Chenyan was suddenly excited.

    "Why are you happy? I thought you asked me about my job because you want me to leave as fast as possible. But I can''t me you. Even I''d choose a sensible nephew like Ge over a niece like me."

    Mu Chenyan red at her and wanted to beat her up for talking nonsense. But in the end, she pulled her ear and gave it a twist shocking Xiang Wai so much that she forgot to react. "Say that again! Is it necessary to talk so much nonsense? Why would I want you to leave early? It isn''t even my ce to ask you to leave! This is your home!"

    Xiang Wai suddenly smiled at that stunned Mu Chenyan and she realized what she did. She let her ear go and looked horrified, "I... I didn''t mean to."

    Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin chuckled at the side.

    "Aunt, do you remember when was thest time you pulled my ear?" asked Xiang Wai. "It was my birthday and I sneaked out while everyone was looking for me. Only you found me and you twist my ear so bad. Then you even picked me from the back of my cor like a chicken and brought me home while scolding me."

    "You!" Mu Chenyan was quiet for a long moment because of shock. "You can actually remember that?"

    "I have some impression of it," said Xiang Wai.

    "I only did it because I was worried," said Mu Chenyan. "Who told you to sneak out like that? It scared everyone."

    Xiang Weimin suddenlyughed out, "I remember that day dad also scolded you aunt."

    Mu Chenyan pouted, "That''s right. Gege was so mad at me. It wasn''t even my fault but he scolded me so badly that I almost cried."

    There was a snort heard as soon as she finished.

 Chapter 609 Small World

    <h4>Chapter 609 Small World</h4>

    All of them turned to look and found Grandfather Xiang staring at Mu Chenyan with a strange expression. "Almost cried?" He asked in a weird tone. "You?" He raised his brow inquisitively. "Do you even know how to cry?"

    "I do," said Mu Chenyan. "I cried when my Elle got married."

    Grandfather Xiang continued to look at her, "Chenyan, leave Raelle out of this. You can shed tears for hers. That''s normal. But you take a scolding and cry? That''s impossible in this life! You''re more think-skinned than anyone I know."

    "Then you definitely don''t know enough people, Elder Xiang," said Mu Chenyan righteously.

    He didn''t want to argue with her and operated his wheelchair to leave. Mu Chenyan saw him leaving made a face behind his back saying, "You shouldn''t listen to Elder Xiang."

    Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai were both amused but didn''t say anything.

    Mu Chenyan suddenly pped, "Wait! Since you have taken a vacation, that means you''re free?"

    "I guess," was Xiang Wai''s uncertain answer because Mu Chenyan''s eyes directed at her were too feverish.

    Mu Chenyan suddenlyughed, "Great! But you''ll be bored at home with nothing to do. How about auntie take you out for some fun?"

    "Mu! Chen! Yan!"

    Mu Chenyan straightened up once she heard that shout and gave Grandfather Xiang a sweet smile, "What happened, Elder Xiang? Why are you back? Weren''t you going to the garden for fresh air?"

    "I was afraid you''lle up with one of your terrible ideas, so I came to see," replied Grandfather Xiang. "And I wasn''t wrong at all. You''re still up to no good?"

    "I''m always up to good," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Are you?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    Mu Chenyan licked her lips and sighed, "Fine. I''m never up to any good. But so what? What do good people get in life? I tell you, they get nothing!" She looked at her niece and nephew and proudly told them, "You see, your aunt isn''t a good person. But I''m not a bad person either. They say there is a thin line between good and bad. I''m the lurker on that thin line."

    "I''d love to go out with you then, auntie," said Xiang Wai.

    "Really?" Mu Chenyan''s eyes sparkled.

    "Chenyan, don''t cause trouble," warned Grandfather Xiang.

    "Rx! I''m a very responsible person," assured Mu Chenyan.

    But it had to be said that Grandfather Xiang wasn''t assured. If Raelle wasn''t involved, Mu Chenyan was like a wild creature out for a hunt. There was no controlling her and there was no way to even know what trouble she''d create in the next moment. She was a worrisome person!

    "Yeah! You''re so responsible that you took a five-year-old Wai to a wild forest to hunt," reminded Grandfather Xiang with suppressed anger.

    Mu Chenyan coughed at that reminder, "But I brought her out safe as well. Besides, the real fun of hunting is in the wild forest where you don''t know what dangers are lurking. Why go to those hunting grounds where you already know you''d survive? The real adventure is in the wilderness!"

    "I agree!" said Xiang Wai. "No wonder I have always had this obsession with wilderness. It''s because auntie influenced me very early."

    Mu Chenyan grinned at her, "I used to take you out for a lot of fun." Suddenly reminded of an unpleasant memory, she added, "That''s why even your grandmother made me kneel in snow for hours."

    "It''s not like it helped," said Grandfather Xiang. "If anything, you grew even more rebellious."

    "Elder Xiang, you can stop discrediting me now," said Mu Chenyan acting like an aggrieved person. "Can''t you just see me having fun with my niece and nephew? I haven''t seen them in a long while."

    "Fine," Grandfather Xiang gave in to her just like that. No matter what, he was still like a father who was powerless before his daughter. And Mu Chenyan was the only daughter he had. Even though they weren''t rted by blood.

    "How about we bring Raelle as well?" suggested Xiang Weimin.

    Both Mu Chenyan and Grandfather Xiang had an inexplicable expression at that moment. Finally, Mu Chenyan said, "It''s that... Elle won''t go."

    "Why?"

    Mu Chenyan scratched her head, "You can ask her for her flesh. She''ll give it to you. Don''t ask her to leave her work ande out to y. That''ll put her into a very difficult position."

    "She doesn''t like having fun?" asked Xiang Wai curiously.

    "First of all, her definition of fun is a little distorted," said Mu Chenyan. "And that leads to the second point which is, working is super fun to her."

    "So what else does she like apart from work?" asked Xiang Weimin. He was thinking if he could get these details, it''d be easier to interact with Raelle and get closer to her. It might take a while but it was alright. He just needed a direction for now.

    "More work," answered Mu Chenyan with a grin.

    "If you''re thinking of buying her a gift," started Grandfather Xiang. "Drop this idea. She has no likes and dislikes when ites to materialistic things. The number of times I have gifted her something can be counted on fingers. She gives gifts a lot but she doesn''t like being the one receiving the gifts."

    Mu Chenyan also nodded in agreement, "That''s true. That''s true. There are very few things that can catch Elle''s interest." She sighed, "If you want to please her, don''t bother. She isn''t easy to please. Especially, if you''re intentionally trying to cozy up to her. In her small world, the entry is difficult."

    "Her world is small?" asked Xiang Wai with interest.

    "It''s smaller than you think," answered Mu Chenyan. "In fact, you saw almost all her world gathered in this very room yesterday. That''s how small her world is."

    Xiang Weimin felt like he was beginning to understand some things said by Hyson a little more deeply now. His sister''s life was a closed-off one. She really was guarded against the world.

 Chapter 610 Short On Money

    <h4>Chapter 610 Short On Money</h4>

    "...I''ve adjusted your schedule as you wanted it. So, the meeting at 11 is pushed back to 10," Cloe continued to report Raelle''s itinerary without hearing any reply from the other party. But since it was normal, Cloe didn''t pay attention and continued to look at the iPad in her hands. 99% percent of the time, Raelle would not disturb people when they were talking. That''s why her silence, for now, wasmon.

    Once she finished reporting the itinerary, she looked up at Raelle whose eyes were fixed on the screen before her. She didn''t say anything so Cloe went on, "Also, I have made all the arrangements ording to your requests." She still didn''t get a reply and her brows knitted up in confusion. She stared at Raelle''s face and called out, "Chief!"

    Still, no answer shocked Cloe. Only then did she notice that Raelle was just looking at the screen before her but her eyes had no movement. She looked like... She was in a daze?

    This conjecture appalled Cloe who had never seen her boss lost in thoughts like this. She shuddered for some reason and decided to just break Raelle''s reverie. She couldn''t bear to do it but she had to.

    She clicked her fingers together right in front of Raelle''s eyes and thetter snapped out of her daze. Her eyes instantly shifted to Cloe''s figure and asked, "What?"

    Cloe took a deep breath and repeated everything she just said. Raelle nodded her head and said, "Okay, I got it."

    "Chief, are you okay?" asked Cloe after a moment of silence.

    Raelle looked at her and replied, "I am. Why?"

    "You sure you don''t need me to call a doctor?"

    "Why would I need a doctor?" asked Raelle.

    "Miss Mu Chenyan had instructed that if I see any abnormality in you, I''m supposed to call her or look for a doctor," said Cloe.

    "I know you''re a spy nted beside me but you don''t need to be so tant about it," said Raelle making Cloe purse her lips. She really wanted to refute those words but she couldn''t do it actually. Because when she was first selected, even she felt like she was recruited as a spy. "And what''s the abnormality that you saw?"

    "You were in a daze," Cloe pointed out.

    "You spent hours daydreaming in your working hours, should I also send you to a doctor?"

    Cloe seemed not so happy to hear that but she still defended herself, "I don''t spend hours. But even if I do, I''m a dreamer. It''s normal for me to do so. You... You have never been a dreamer. Your feet are always on the ground. You''re a practical and realistic person who dislikes wasting time more than anything. So, it''s truly an abnormality to me when you''re wasting your time daydreaming."

    Raelle didn''t argue with her but instead agreed with her which shocked Cloe. "You''re right. I am really wasting time. But why am I doing it?"

    "How would I know that?" questioned Cloe. "Maybe you can tell me what''s on your mind and then we can figure it out together?"

    Raelle pushed a strand of hair away from her forehead saying, "I don''t know what''s on my mind."

    Cloe gasped in horror, "Maybe I should really contact the doctor."

    "Don''t overreact like Yanyan," said Raelle.

    Cloe smiled sheepishly, "Maybe I''m influenced by her after all these years."

    "Howe you didn''t grow your IQ by staying so close to me after so many years? But you certainly got influenced by my Yanyan?"

    Cloe felt like that was a jab straight to her heart and she looked aggrieved, "Chief, you can''t say that. Your influence on me is the greatest! You just don''t realize it."

    "If you''re influenced by me, why would you be wasting time here bbering so much nonsense?"

    Cloe gaped at her in disbelief and again felt like that was another jab right to her heart! What the...!

    She had to take several deep breaths to stabilize her mood before she smiled at Raelle politely.

    "Put your smile away," she heard Raelle''s words and her smile vanished instantly.

    "I really wonder how did I manage to survive so many years with you?" Cloe was indeed wondering that. She was really unable to understand sometimes why she actually admired this woman and why she even made her an idol in her heart? It was truly infuriating to be around her! "I''m so happy to see you like this, Chief."

    "Have you lost your mind?" asked Raelle. "Do you want me to put up a prize money notice? Maybe some kind soul would find your brain lying in the trash and think about returning it for the sake of money? After all, your brain can''t possibly be more precious than money!"

    Cloe hit her chest and repeated to herself to stay calm but suddenly sheughed out loud. No, she seriouslyughed so much that her body convulsed. She couldn''t help it right now. She wiped the tears from the corner of her eyes and looked at Raelle with a broad grin. "Chief, I have been wondering how are you so easygoingtely. I was suspicious that you''ve changed. But today, you put my heart and soul at ease! I''m so d to see you''re back. No, I should say, you''re still you. You can''t believe how much I missed that infuriating mouth of yours. Even I can''t seem to believe that I missed that infuriating mouth of yours. But I''m happy that everything is normal."

    "Cloe," Raelle called out.

    "Yes?" replied Cloe like a good employee.

    "If you''re short on money, I can lend it to you. No, I''ll just give it to you. But you better go for a brain scan with a good doctor as soon as possible. Your condition is worsening."

    Cloe''s lips twitched but she was actually very happy right now to see her Chief back in her element so she didn''t take anything to heart. She was too used to this Raelle Xiang who would make you want to beat her up!

    But of course, you wouldn''t dare to do so!

 Chapter 611 Using Brain

    <h4>Chapter 611 Using Brain</h4>

    It was close to lunchtime when Raelle''s meeting ended and she made a beeline towards the elevator. Cloe rushed after her, after hesitating a bit, she still chose to enter the elevator before the door closed. Raelle didn''t say anything about her behavior.

    But as they reached the underground parking lot, Cloe was still following Raelle like a tail. This... Raelle stopped and turned to look at her, "Is there something you want to say?"

    Cloe nodded her head.

    "Then go ahead," said Raelle. "Don''t be so wishy-washy."

    "Can Ie with you?" asked Cloe.

    Raelle looked carefully at Cloe''s face when she heard her request. She didn''t ask for Cloe''s reasons and just got in the car saying, "If you want to, juste. Why are you wasting time here?"

    Cloe let out a breath and rushed over to take a seat in the car. As the car drove out, Cloe pulled out the iPad and continued to go through the emails but couldn''t help telling Raelle, "Chief, you''ve been getting way too many unnecessary emails since the time you appeared in news."

    "Oh..." was Raelle''s nd response.

    Cloe could only sigh at that reaction. But then again, what was she expecting exactly? It''s not it was Raelle who had filtered through all these emails daily. It was her! Cloe! She had to spend hours going through these emails. And she''d only forward the useful ones to Raelle. Usually, it wasn''t as big of a problem but since Raelle appeared on news with Shui Xian, Cloe was mentally tired.

    There were so many opportunistic capitalists trying to squeeze their way in. But was it even possible? Who was Raelle Xiang? Did she everck business partners? But this matter was still very annoying to Cloe.

    While looking out the window, Raelle suddenly spoke, "Cloe..."

    "Yes, Chief?"

    "Are you nning on getting married?" asked Raelle which surprised Cloe. No, it should be mentioned that even the chauffeur was a bit taken aback. If it wasn''t for his professionalism, he''d have really lost focus. After all, when did Raelle Xiang take interest in such matters? Especially when it didn''t involve her?

    Cloe was silent for a moment before saying, "I''m not sure."

    "So, you''re a scumbag,"mented Raelle.

    Cloe almostmitted blood especially when she noticed the suppressed smile on the chauffeur''s face. She really didn''t know what to do with this boss of hers.

    "How am I a scumbag?" she asked.

    "Oh, you slept with a guy and are not willing to take responsibility for him," said Raelle straightforwardly. "Doesn''t that make you a scumbag?"

    Cloe''s lips twitched and she said, "Chief, who said I''m not taking responsibility? I''m dating him. Officially and seriously!"

    "This serious dating of yours doesn''t seem to have the goal of marriage," mentioned Raelle that making Cloe pause.

    She bit her bottom lip and contemted. She hesitated before answering, "I do like Xukun. He is a very good partner. But... I haven''t thought about getting married. Not just with him. It just hadn''t been on my mind for so long that I took it for granted that I won''t get married."

    "That was before you had a boyfriend," said Raelle. "What about now?"

    "If it''s Xukun, I think I don''t mind," she said with a small smile on her face. Cloe thought of something, turned to look at the backseat, and asked, "But Chief, how do you know that I slept with him?"

    "You posted a picture of his niece and nephew yesterday," said Raelle matter-of-factly.

    "So?" Cloe asked when Raelle didn''t borate. She was baffled. Was that one sentence supposed to exin everything? How? How did the picture of his niece and nephew connect with her sleeping with Xukun? She really couldn''t understand.

    "Since you went out with him to spend time with his niece and nephew that means you confirmed your rtionshippletely. And as much as I know, you aren''t the kind of a person who would use words to confirm her rtionship."

    Cloe felt like her mind was buzzing. She would have never thought her boss woulde to all that conclusion with just one photo she posted on her moments. Why was her boss so scary?

    "Are you going to see his sister?" asked Raelle.

    "It''s not like I can avoid her," said Cloe. "Even if I want to, I can''t avoid it for long since she is Soren''s wife. I only didn''t get to meet her for these years because Soren and I were on different continents. Now, we are in the same ce. It''s inevitable that I''ll meet his wife."

    "I see..." was all Raelle said in response.

    Cloe put the iPad down and asked, "Chief, do you think I should take him to see my parents?"

    "Do you want to?" asked Raelle.

    "I don''t," was Cloe''s answer. "I''m afraid they might ruin everything."

    "But you can''t possibly hide this from them either," said Raelle. "However, telling them is one thing but looking for their approval is another. There is a thing called filial piety in this country which is taken very seriously. But you grew up in a different environment and different values. You''re an adult and very much capable of making your own decisions."

    Cloe also agreed with this and nodded, "Right. I''ll first stabilize my rtionship with Kun and if we really reach the stage of marriage, I''ll just invite my parents to my wedding." Then something struck her and she couldn''t help asking, "Chief, you also grew up in an open environment. Then why are you so filial? Why do always give in to your grandfather?"

    "I have my own reasons," was Raelle''s answer. "You won''t understand it even if I tell you."

    Cloe hummed in agreement. "True. I mostly don''t understand you."

    "So, ask fewer questions," suggested Raelle.

    "That I can''t help it, Chief," said Cloe. "Even if I want to, I can''t help it when I''m around you. You are an insightful person. I feel like asking you is better than spending hours mulling over it. Saves me the trouble of using my brain."

    "Right, you don''t even have a brain."

    Cloe rolled her eyes and shook her head when she heard thatment. She won''t argue with that. It was pointless.

 Chapter 612 So Nice

    <h4>Chapter 612 So Nice</h4>

    As soon as Raelle and Cloe entered the building, there was a sudden silence that enveloped the lobby. The ce that had always been bustling with people and seemed loud was suddenly utterly silent. And everyone''s eyes were stuck on these two women.

    "Excuse me!"

    The receptionist was gathering her things to prepare to go for lunch when she heard that voice. She lifted her head and faced Raelle with an inaudible gasp that escaped her lips without her knowing it. She wasn''t at fault though. The visual impact was too much for her poor heart considering she had always been a face-con.

    Clearing her throat, she answered, "Yes? How may I help you?"

    Raelle took off her shades when she noticed the receptionist''s enthusiastic smile and found it quite interesting. From her years of experience, she could easily see that the receptionist''s smile was from straight from her heart. It wasn''t a polite smile or a patronizing one at all. It was sincere.

    "I have an appointment with Master Xian," informed Raelle in a good manner.

    Before the receptionist could reply...

    "President Raelle!"

    Raelle turned her head and looked at Shui Xian''s assistant, Ma Jin who came rushing down. Then Raelle looked back at Cloe, "You informed him?"

    Cloe nodded her head, "I told you I have arranged everything."

    "This way please," said Ma Jin while gesturing with his hand.

    Raelle looked back at the receptionist and said, "Sorry for taking your time."

    The receptionist was taken aback by her words and waved her hands, "No, no. There is no need for a sorry."

    "Still, I took your time when you''re going for lunch," stated Raelle. She put her shades back on while adding, "And thank you for your help." With that, she even shed a smile at the receptionist who was frozen still because of that one smile that took her breath away.

    While Raelle followed Ma Jin, Cloe was one step behind and that''s why she got to hear the receptionist''s words, "Wow! This is a real fairy. So gorgeous and so nice."

    Cloe almost vomited blood when she heard that and nced at the receptionist as if she was sympathizing with her. Poor girl, she was so young and so easily fooled by that fake smile?

    Cloe entered the elevator with Raelle and Ma Jin while peaking at Raelle''s face. She even shook her head. She had to say Raelle''s fake smile had actually improved after all these years and it was indeed hard for most people to tell that she was just faking it. If Cloe didn''t know any better, she''d be fooled as well.

    In fact, this incident reminded Cloe of the first time she started working beside Raelle. She had also thought, ''Wow! What a gorgeous fairy! Good looks and good manners! God is really biased!''

    However, sheter realized just what kind of a fairy Raelle was. Okay, she had good looks and she had the best manners as well. But calling her nice? It depended on person to person. It was rare for her to see people whose first impression of Raelle was that she was a nice person.

    While they took the elevator to the Shui Xian''s office floor, thepany chat group was already stirred when the receptionist posted her encounter with a fairy. But another employee who was in the lobby immediately revealed that the person was Raelle Xiang, the rumored girlfriend of their Master Xian.

    This one sentence was like fanning the mes as the discussion grew heated.

    [Where is she? I also want to see Master Xian''s girlfriend in person!]

    [Just cry in the corner. Bossdy took the exclusive elevator with special assistant Ma. Since assistant Ma Jin came himself, you can already tell how valued she is.]

    [Bah! That''s President Raelle! Who would dare slight her? Do you have a death wish?]

    [I envy the people upstairs, they will be seeing the bossdy in person soon!]

    [Ah! Why did Ie out for lunch today? Someone stop her! I''ming right back!]

    [Hahahaha! I''m camping outside the elevator. I have to see her in person!]

    [Take a picture!]

    [Picture +1]

    .

    .

    .

    .

    [Picture +112]

    [Who has the death wish? Do you dare take a picture?]

    [Ah ah ahhhhh! She is here! OMG! She is so beautiful! Even more than the picturest time. I''m swooning!]

    [Wuwuwuwu! Why is God so unfair? She just stole my heart!]

    While the chat room was lively, Raelle had stepped on the floor where Shui Xian''s office was. Ma Jin was still directing her towards the office but he could see the sneaky behavior of everyone from the secretarial department. He felt cold sweat dripping down his face. He was worried that President Raelle would be annoyed by this behavior of the employees. All of them were acting like they were at a zoo.

    The only good thing was that they weren''t being too tant with their staring. However, their heated gazes were too annoying. Even he felt annoyed. He wondered how Raelle felt.

    But the poor guy was worried for nothing. Raelle was used to this attention. As long as the gaze directed at her didn''t have malice, she''d totally ignore it.

    "President Raelle, this is Master Xian''s office. He is currently in the meeting and will be here in five minutes. How about you wait inside for him?"

    Raelle nodded her head and stepped inside but told him before entering to tell Shui Xian, "When hees tell him someone is here for a meeting with him." Ma Jin being apetent assistant understood immediately and agreed without any hesitation. Cloe didn''t go inside. She looked at Ma Jin and smiled at him, "Where should I wait?"

    Ma Jin was suddenly at a loss. "Did you have lunch?"

    "No," answered Cloe.

    "Then how about we have lunch," suggested Ma Jin.

    "How about I hide first?" was Cloe''s reply. "It seems Master Xian is done with the meeting."

    And with that, she found a seat at the side in the waiting area and picked up a magazine to hide her face with. It was supposed to be a surprise! She had to y her part to make sure it stayed as a surprise until the end!

 Chapter 613 The First

    <h4>Chapter 613 The First</h4>

    When Raelle was in Shui Xian''s office, she wasn''t curious about looking around at all. She just look off her coat and hung it at the side. Then she just sat down to wait for Shui Xian. As for why she didn''t look around, first, she was not such a curious person. Second, Shui Xian had already shown her every nook and cranny of his office during several of their video calls.

    Meanwhile, Shui Xian had juste to the door of his office and found Ma Jin just standing there. "Are you guarding the door?" asked Shui Xian as he held the door handle and opened it.

    The door was only pushed slightly open when Ma Jin informed him, "Master Xian, someone is waiting inside for a meeting with you."

    Shui Xian frowned at him in displeasure, "Don''t you know that my lunchtime is off-limits? I only have a meeting with my wife during lunchtime."

    With that, he pushed open the door and heard that familiar voice, "What a surprise then! It is really your wife who came for the meeting."

    Shui Xian was stunned to his ce for a whole minute wondering if he was hallucinating right now. That voice... His eyes drifted towards the figure that just stood up and turned to look at him. Shui Xian''s eyes widened before happiness engulfed him.

    "Are you just gonna stand there?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian entered the shut the door with a bang before he almost ran to her side and pulled her in his arms for a hug. "Wow! It''s really my wife!" He sounded like he was still processing this fact. What a real fool!

    "Should I pinch you? Maybe it''ll be easier to believe in this reality?" suggested Raelle.

    Shui Xian grinned as he pushed her slightly away and held her face in his hands before saying, "I have an even better idea!" And then, he sealed her lips with his own. His lips moved against hers in sync while he felt like sweetness was dripping down his throat. As their lips parted, he licked her lips saying, "Sweet! Too sweet!"

    "I won''t even bother wasting my time questioning how it''s sweet again," said Raelle which made Shui Xian grin foolishly. "But you seem very excited for some reason? Usually, you see me after a whole day at home but don''t look like how you are now."

    "That''s because I know I''ll always see you at home," said Shui Xian. He held her hand in his own as he went on, "But this is a surprise. I wasn''t expecting to see you here."

    "I thought it wasn''t really a surprise. You won the bet. I had toe," reminded Raelle.

    "But I didn''t think you''de so soon," said Shui Xian. Although he knew she''d hold up her side of the deal, he didn''t think she''ll really show up on Monday!

    "So, should I go back ande another day?"

    Shui Xian pulled her over to the sofa and rubbed her head, "Nonsense! How can I send you back when you''re here? You''re already in my territory, how can I let you escape it so soon?"

    "I''m the one talking nonsense or are you?"

    Shui Xian tsked at that and before he could speak, there was a knock on the door before Ma Jin pushed open the door, "Sir, there are some things that Madam brought for you."

    Shui Xian raised his brows and looked at her. But before he could ask, a few people came inside and ced three boxes on the table before they left. Shui Xian went to the door and opened it to say to Ma Jin, "Shoo! Disappear already! Don''t disturb!" And then he not only closed the door but also locked it. How can he let anyone disturb his time right now?

    He went up to Raelle again and asked, "What are these?"

    "That''s our lunch," replied Raelle. "Since I''m here, won''t we have lunch together?"

    Shui Xian nodded since that''s the case. "And thest one?" His eyes were actually on thest one since it wasn''t a wooden box like the other two. It was cardboard box and it even had a ribbon on it.

    "This one is," said Raelle. She untied the ribbon and opened the box before presenting it to him. "For you!"

    Shui Xian looked at the gorgeous flower arrangement with choctes spread around and then looked at her face. He licked his lips and smiled.

    "What is this?" he asked her with a doting look in his eyes.

    "I brought your two favorite things to you," was Raelle''s answer.

    "Oh?" Shui Xian looked at the flower box again and then asked, "I guess choctes have be my favorite in thest few years but flowers? Hmm?" He couldn''t say flowers were his absolute favorites.

    "Oh, I wasn''t talking about the flowers," said Raelle which surprised Shui Xian.

    "Huh? Then what?"

    "I said I brought two of your favorite things to you," Shui Xian nodded his head in agreement while she went on, "The second thing is choctes. And the first one is..."

    "The first one is?" he asked staring into her eyes.

    "Me!" she answered. "I was talking about myself."

    Shui Xian was dumbfounded when he heard that reply from her. He was speechless for a moment but then again, it wasn''t all that surprising either.

    Seeing how he wasn''t saying anything, Raelle said, "Don''t tell me I''m not in your favorites?"

    "How is that possible?" Shui Xian hurriedly spoke up.

    "Then? Why aren''t you talking? Or is it that choctes take the first position? That can''t happen, I don''t like being in second ce."

    Shui Xian leaned down and dropped a kiss on her neck which stopped Raelle from continuing. He kissed her ear next and said in a low voice, "You''re absolutely on the top of the list. Always!"

    "That sounds better," was Raelle''s reply which made himugh and drop his head on her shoulder to lean on.

 Chapter 614 Long Or Short

    <h4>Chapter 614 Long Or Short</h4>

    Shui Xian opened the lunchbox and spread eachyer before the two of them. It could be seen that today''s lunch was more sumptuous than on other days. But his attention wasn''t on food at all. His attention was on his wife. He couldn''t stop himself from looking at her.

    While Raelle just focused on eating in silence as always. Her attention was grabbed by the food and Shui Xian''s attention was grabbed by her. He bit the tips of his chopsticks while his eyes just continued to follow her movements. He was a bit in a daze seeing her eating here in his office.

    Raelle had to peel her attention away from lunch and look at him, "Eat!"

    "Oh," was Shui Xian''s response and he forced himself to pay attention to his meal.

    After lunch, Raelle was about to stand when he held her wrist and asked, "Where are you going? You can''t leave so soon."

    Raelle faced him in silence before saying, "I was going to wash my hands."

    Shui Xian instantly loosened his grip on her wrist. Raelle went to the washroom to wash his hands. As she turned around after drying her hands, she found Shui Xian standing behind her.

    "Do you have to follow me here as well?" she questioned.

    "I am also here to wash my hands," he retorted immediately.

    Raelle walked past him. As she walked past his desk, something caught her attention. She picked up the thick document and went to stand beside the ss wall to read. Shui Xian came back and found her standing there with her back towards him.

    He ced his chin on her shoulder as he hugged her waist.

    "What''s with this?" asked Raelle as she pointed at the document she was just reading. "Are you entering the

    "This..." Shui Xian took a deep breath and told her, "This is one of the IPs we are nning on bidding for at the Movie and Television IP Conference."

    "You''re gonna produce a show?" asked Raelle. "And it seems like an idol show as well."

    "It is an idol drama," said Shui Xian. "To promote thepany''s artists, we have decided to buy an IP and produce it. It''ll give exposure to our artists and we can reap some benefits along the way since idol dramas are in trend these days."

    "That seems like a good idea," said Raelle.

    They discussed the n Shui Xian''s team proposed in detail and Raelle added somements in between. Shui Xian didn''t think there was anything wrong with spending his precious time with her talking about business. Because he already knew she enjoyed talking about productive things rather than just listening to his mushy talks.

    Raelle looked at the time and said, "I should leave now."

    Shui Xian''s face fell down, "Huh? Already?"

    "Yeah," replied Raelle. "I''ve been here for an hour already."

    "It''s been an hour?" questioned Shui Xian in surprise and looked at his watch. And indeed, it had been an hour. Well, he thought it had only been fifteen minutes or so. How did time pass so soon? "Do you have to go?" he held her hand and asked.

    "Yes," was Raelle''s heartless reply.

    Shui Xian could only drop it but he was still unwilling. It was the first time she came over and she was already leaving. And she only came because of a bet. He didn''t even know if she''lle again. And if yes, then when?

    Raelle noticed the way he looked as she took her coat and wore it. "I have a meeting with some government officials. It can''t be postponed. I have to be there on time."

    "I understand," said Shui Xian. "I mean, I do understand that you''re busy. And I am okay with that. It''s just that you''re here for the first time."

    "But I''m not here for thest time," was Raelle''s reply that made Shui Xian look up at her in surprise.

    "Really?" he asked her for confirmation.

    "What? Do you really think it''ll be myst time here? Certainly not," said Raelle. "I am, after all, thedy Boss around here. Surely, I''m allowed toe whenever I want to."

    Shui Xian smiled at her and agreed, "Oh, how can I forget that? You can certainlye whenever you want to."

    Raelle ced her hand on the side of his face and said, "And I wille. In fact, now that we have already disclosed our rtionship at a certain level, I have to show up more often. Otherwise, what if your employees got the impression that I dumped you?"

    "Oh, then I hope my wife doesn''t dump me. I''ll be very pitiful," said Shui Xian.

    Raelle kissed at the corner of his lips saying, "And I definitely don''t want to see you acting pitiful."

    Shui Xian helped her fix her hair and continued to smile, "I can''t possibly be pitiful with you around, wifey!"

    "I''ll see you at home," said Raelle as she turned to leave.

    But Shui Xian held her hand making her look back at him. "You want to say goodbye here? No way! I''ming with you."

    "You want to waste timeing down with me?" asked Raelle. "It isn''t even that far a distance."

    "No matter how long or short is the distance," started Shui Xian. "I''ll still apany you." He dropped a kiss at her temple and said, "Let''s go! I want to see you get in the car and only then I''ll be satisfied."

    "You''re gonna ruin your prestige in front of your employee," Raelle pointed out. "I heard Master Xian is considered a great man to his employees."

    "Who cares?" retorted Shui Xian. "My wife is more awesome than me. I don''t mind ruining a bit of my prestige at all." He opened the door and stepped out while holding her hand. He really didn''t think there was anything wrong with apanying his wife to the car. If his employees want to watch, they are most wee to do so!

 Chapter 615 Actress

    <h4>Chapter 615 Actress</h4>

    It could be seen that thispany''s employees loved gossip way too much. The entire secretarial department was still in their office pretending to be working. Even the ones who left early for lunch ran back to their office and wait to see the Empress of their boss.

    "You have quite diligent employees," stated Raelle.

    Shui Xian was all too well familiar with his own people and couldn''t even take thispliment without going against his conscious. It could be seen why they were all here. But he was in a good mood so he didn''t bother with their tricks at all.

    "Cloe has something to discuss with you," said Raelle as she saw Cloe waiting with Ma Jin. She stepped aside and said to Cloe, "You can take your time."

    Cloe nodded and turned to Shui Xian, "Can I have a minute?"

    "Sure," agreed Shui Xian and stepped aside to talk to her. "What is this about?"

    "It''s about Cui Xukun," answered Cloe.

    Shui Xian frowned when he heard that reply. He wasn''t really interested in listening to his ex-friend. But considering their past friendship, he decided to put his feelings aside and asked, "What about him?"

    "He asked me to tell you that he wants to meet you," said Cloe. "I''m not sure what problems you both have but I know he has something important to talk about with you."

    Shui Xian thought about it for a minute before nodding his head, "Alright. I''ll meet him because you''re the one asking."

    Cloe smiled at him, "You''re giving me face? Or it''s because I''m your wife''s employee?"

    "It''s all the same," was Shui Xian''s reply. "Raelle values you a lot. I have to make sure I value you as well."

    "Well, then I should thank my Chief," said Cloe jokingly.

    "Not really. You made your own ce in her life with your hard work. So, however she treats you, you deserve it."

    Cloe felt really good listening to those words. "Thank you."

    Shui Xian waved her off casually, "You can just contact Ma Jin to range the appointment. Oh, but make sure it doesn''te after my working hours."

    Cloe chuckled, "I know. I know. After working hours is the time reserved for your wife."

    "That''s right," said Shui Xian happily. "Is that all?"

    "Yes," she told him.

    "Tsk. Why bothering all the way for this little matter? You could have just called. I''d still listen to you."

    "But I can''t possibly take my Chief''s husband so causally," was her response which made them both chuckle.

    While Raelle was waiting for Shui Xian and Cloe, Ma Jin stood behind her attentively. He didn''t even dare breathe loudly in her presence. His boss''s wife was a lot more intimidating than his own boss. He felt the air pressure lowering in her presence. Or maybe, he was the only one who felt like this. He couldn''t possibly be sure about such a thing.

    "You must be President Raelle!"

    Raelle looked at the woman who strutted over to her side with that looking like an absolute angel in her white attire. She looked like a gentle and elegantdy like a spring breeze. Even her voice was sweet. However, that smile on her face was so pretentious that Raelle didn''t like it.

    Her ability to see through people was no joke. She could see the malice in those eyes without even trying. It was just too obvious. It seemed the woman in front of her wasn''t even trying to hide her displeasure.

    But Raelle was certain this was the first time she was seeing this woman so where did this hostilitye from?

    Ruan Meilin extended her hand towards Raelle when she noticed that Raelle didn''t react to her earlier words, "Hi, I''m Vice President, Ruan Meilin."

    Raelle didn''t take her hand but replied to her greeting, "Hello, I''m Raelle Xiang!"

    But that''s all the response Ruan Meilin got from Raelle who wasn''t interested in continuing this discussion at all. Ruan Meilin stared at her hatefully when Raelle didn''t even take her hand. She felt like Raelle was intentionally embarrassing her just because Raelle''s status was higher than her own. It seemed this President Raelle looked down on people just as the rumors said.

    Huh! What a bitch!

    Raelle had no interest in how Ruan Meilin looked at her. It didn''t concern her at all. But it seemed Ruan Meilin wasn''t taking the hint.

    "I hope the media reports didn''t affect President Raelle," said Ruan Meilin keeping up her smile. "The media is just like that. Gossiping about everything. Just because President Raelle and Master Xian met on the red carpet, they really took the gossip too far."

    With thesements, she indeed managed to make Raelle nce at her. Now, Raelle was actually waiting for where this conversation was going because anyone in their right mind would know that the media wouldn''t gossip about her so casually.

    Ruan Meilin looked distressed as she added, "I also faced a phase like that. Everyone said I''m Master Xian''s girlfriend and that''s why he''d been looking after me for all these years. I can''t help it. It''s true that Brother Xian really cared about me for all these years but... I don''t know where the rumorse from. It''s really distressing how these gossips even affect our work life."

    Interesting.

    That was all the thought that came to Raelle''s mind when she heard this self-directed monologue. She really wanted to ask this woman where she looked like a woman with a hole in her brain to her? Why would she say such brainless things and expect her to react to it all as well?

    If you''re expecting a reaction from Raelle Xiang, you''re like asking peach blossoms to bloom in winter. That was certainly not possible.

    Raelle watched Shui Xianing over and said to Ruan Meilin, "You''re an interesting person, Miss Vice President. Maybe you should review your career choices. Being a storyteller or an actress might suit you better." She took a step ahead but turned to add, "Oh, and good luck pursuing your Brother Xian. If you really became his girlfriend, I''ll send you a big and exciting gift."

    Ma Jin who was standing behind was speechless right now.

 Chapter 616 A Fake

    <h4>Chapter 616 A Fake</h4>

    Earlier Ma Jin did want to step up and stop Ruan Meilin but considering that she was the Vice President, he had his own reservations. Who knew his boss'' wife would react like this? He knew for sure that if something like this was said to his own girlfriend, it would have been the start of the chaos. But Raelle''s calmness and her response to Ruan Meilin werepletely out of his expectations.

    How do you say it?

    One-shot kill?

    Yup! That''s it! Ruan Meilin acted out her scene for so long and yet the battle was won by Raelle. This was an eye-opener to him and made him see Raelle in a new light. He had to say, this woman deserved her great reputation. She wasn''t someone just anyone could mess around with.

    As Shui Xian came over, he saw Ruan Meilin shooting daggers at Raelle and frowned. He naturally took Raelle''s hand and walked away saying, "Come, I''ll take you down."

    "Master Xian, I have the project n for theunch of new features of the livestreaming services," spoke Ruan Meilin hurriedly.

    "You can leave it at my table or just give it to Ma Jin," was Shui Xian''s response as he didn''t even bother to look in her direction.

    "But I have to discuss it with you to borate a few points," Ruan Meilin still insisted as she just wanted to stop him from leaving with Raelle. Because of Raelle''s earlierment, she felt like Raelle was challenging her. No, she was mocking her for not being able to even be Shui Xian''s girlfriend.

    Ruan Meilin was so mad at Raelle''s proud face just because she could stand with Shui Xian. She wanted to scratch her face but she had to hold in her urges because of Shui Xian''s presence. If it wasn''t for him, she might have already pounced on Raelle long ago.

    "Just highlight everything to Ma Jin," responded Shui Xian coldly and still chose to ignore her as he got in the elevator with Raelle and Cloe.

    Ruan Meilin was left ring at the elevator doors that closed on her face. She felt humiliated. In her own opinion, Shui Xian had never treated her like that before this day. He had been a little mean to hertely but it was also from the time he got into a rtionship with that woman. Such hateful creature!

    Whatever ran through her delusional mind was no one''s concern at all. At least, it didn''t concern Raelle who had no time to waste on such a woman who was living in her own world. In fact, she''d like to keep her distance from such people. It wasn''t like she came across such people for the first time. She had seen people like Ruan Meilin who liked to live in their own cocoon and when things didn''t go their way, they''d always me the other person. They just need a person to vent their anger on.

    If there was any emotion that Raelle could associate with such people was... pitiful!

    Yup! Such people were certainly pitiful.

    "Did she say something to you before I came back?" asked Shui Xian to Raelle in the elevator.

    "Who?" asked Raelle.

    "Ruan Meilin," replied Shui Xian.

    "Yourpany''s Vice President," Raelle took a moment before asking, "Is she important?"

    Shui Xian frowned at that question but shook his head honestly, "How can she be important? She isn''t important at all."

    "Oh, then whatever she said is certainly not important as well," was Raelle''s answer to him.

    "But I still want to know what she said."

    Raelle looked up at him and told him, "I can only spare 7 seconds of my memory to such people. After seven seconds, I can hardly remember the unimportant people. What makes you think I''d remember her unimportant words?" She took a pause and added, "Oh, but I do have something to suggest."

    Shui Xian looked at her lovingly while ying with her fingers as he asked, "What is it?"

    "Let her audition for that drama you''re about to produce," said Raelle ndly. "She is a good actress. In fact, she might find her highest potential on the set. So, don''t waste her talent in thepany and let her explore her interests."

    Cloe could only purse her lips standing behind them to suppress her smile. She had to give props to her boss. She really was the best at scorning people while sounding like a sincerely concerned person. She lit a candle for this Vice President Ruan in her heart but had a look of schadenfreude on her face.

    "Or you can let her join the scriptwriting team," added Raelle.

    Shui Xian''s lips hooked up and he kissed her hair saying, "Okay. I''ll listen to whatever my wife says."

    When Shui Xian appeared with Raelle in the lobby, it stirred everyone once again. It was already a huge gossip to see Raelle in theirpany and now, they were seeing the leads of the recent gossips on even the inte in person. This was truly a wonderful day.

    Raelle stopped before the revolving door and looked at Shui Xian, "You can go back from here."

    Shui Xian didn''t seem to like that suggestion. "No, I''ll go out with you."

    "It''s sunny outside," said Raelle. "Isn''t it the same thing?"

    "I told you, it''s not the same thing," was Shui Xian''s reply. He shook her arm saying, "I''ll just watch you getting into the car, okay?"

    *Crash!*

    Someone dropped the files in their hands on the side everyone else looked at this scene with a petrified look. They didn''t even dare to gasp at this moment. Who would tell them who was this clingy person before them? Where did their cool and sauce Master Xian go?

    Help!

    This Master Xian is a fake!

    Who would have thought that their Master Xian in a rtionship looked no different from a teenager who had his first love''s awakening? It was a spicy sight! It stung their eyes.

 Chapter 617 Hard To Say

    <h4>Chapter 617 Hard To Say</h4>

    Seeing the situation, Cloe had to step up and remind, "Chief, we are gettingte."

    "Juste then," said Raelle to both Cloe and Shui Xian.

    And the three of them stepped out of the building. Just as Raelle had said, it was really sunny. But it wasn''t like the winter sun that feltfortable. This sun was irritating and hot. Too hot. With her shades on, she got to her car which was already waiting for her and looked back at Shui Xian.

    "I''m leaving. I''ll see you at home," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian leaned over and kissed her forehead, "See you at home."

    Then he saw Raelle getting into the car and just stood there watching the car leave. He stood there until the car disappeared at the intersection before sighing and walking back to the office.

    "Is that really our Master Xian? Why does he look like a lovestruck fool?" someonemented standing in the lobby in a low voice.

    "Hahaha!" One of themughed out loud as she said, "I''m so happy! All those who were stubbornly saying that Master Xian and Vice President Ruan are the real deal are pped in the face!"

    "Right! Last time I talked to that Yiyi," added another one. "She was arrogantly saying that Master Xian doesn''t interact with Vice President in front of his employees because he doesn''t want to hurt her reputation but he cherishes her and respects her. Bah! I so feel like today''s scene was a p to her face."

    Others also joined in a snickering, "Right! I wonder what face she''d have toe and say that again!"

    "Haiz! I never thought I''d see such a gentle side of Master Xian. He looked so different. Not his usual majestic self that seemed hard to approach. He seemed so down to earth."

    "Even if he looks mellow, he still isn''t in our reach," someonemented. "Can''t you see how much he loves President Raelle?"

    "Who can''t see it? Indeed, such good-looking people are meant for each other. People like us can only watch."

    When Shui Xian went back to thepany, his earlier mellow look was nowhere to be seen. He went back to his cold aura that pushed people away, warning them to keep their distance. He didn''t know what Ruan Meilin said to Raelle but it seemed this Vice President was really taking advantage of his leniency.

    He passed by Ruan Meilin''s office and said, "It seems you have too much time on your hand."

    "Xian..." she looked aggrievedly at him.

    "Keep your act to yourself," he said. "Whatever I owe you, I have already done enough to pay it back to you. Don''t think I''ll take any more of your nonsense. Also, say another word to my lover and you''re out of here! Keep that in mind!"

    "Brother Xian!" she called out to him from behind with tears trickling down her face, "How can you treat me like this for a person who just entered your life? I''ve been with you for years."

    "I didn''t ask you to," was his response. "It''s you who selfishly stayed because you thought just because Hebe left an empty ce in my life, you''ll be able to take it." He was about to leave but stopped and added, "And don''t even for a minute think that I don''t know what part you yed in my divorce. So, stay away from Raelle. She isn''t someone like you can afford to offend."

    After that, he didn''t even bother looking at her and mmed the door shut.

    Ruan Meilin wiped her tears and looked angry. No, she was filled with hatred. And all this hatred was directed at Raelle since she believed if it wasn''t for Raelle, she wouldn''t have to hear all that from Shui Xian. Her brain circuit was really malfunctioning and repeating the same mantra over and over again.

    ....

    Raelle went directly to the meeting with Shui Xian''spany. She was meeting some government officials to discuss some policies. The meetingsted for over 2 hours and when she was leaving, Minister Chen stopped her.

    Smiling good-naturedly at her, he said, "President Raelle really doesn''t give us poor people a way to talk."

    Raelle took that as apliment, "I know. I have always been very good at talking."

    Minister Chenughed out loud when he heard that response from her, "You''re a very interesting youngdy."

    "Thank you!" responded Raelle.

    "I have a dinner party at my house next week, I''m wondering if you can spare some time?"

    Raelle paused when she heard that. She didn''t like socializing, everyone already knew that in the circle. But it wasn''t always good to not give such officials some face. It seemed she had to think about it carefully.

    "I wonder if there is a special reason for this dinner party," inquired Raelle.

    Minister Chen smiled at her, "It''s my wife''s birthday so I invited some people to gather. She likes lively ces. I can''t possibly go against her."

    Raelle looked at this old man and said, "Minister Chen really loves his wife."

    "Aiyo, I spent 25 years with her already," said Minister Chen. "I have to treat her better and better for not giving up on me."

    Raelle nodded and said, "Then I''lle. I''d like to meet Minister Chen''s wife."

    "I''ll be waiting for you," said Minister Chen as they said their goodbyes.

    Cloe looked at Raelle, "You''re really going?"

    "We are going," was Raelle''s response.

    "But I was gonna go on a date that day," said Cloe.

    "Don''t act like you aren''t seeing your boyfriend tonight," said Raelle. "It''s just a dinner party. You can think about it. If you really don''t want to go, then I won''t force you."

    Cloe was left gaping at her in disbelief. Did her Chief just gave her the right to make her own decision? Was she dreaming? She could choose not to go? But did she dare to do so? It was hard to say for now.

 Chapter 618 Anything

    <h4>Chapter 618 Anything</h4>

    Mu Chenyan had been meaning to take her niece and nephew out for fun for days now but she had to restrain herself considering how Xiang Weimin hadn''t fully recovered. Although he could walk on his own without much support, he couldn''t walk for long or stand for that long. Besides, this nephew was also afflicted with the hereditary disease of the Xiang family, they were all crazy workaholics.

    Who knew that even during these months when he got the chance to stay home for recuperation, he chose to join the military research center as a supervisor. Mu Chenyan was helpless before this. So, she had to set her target on Xiang Wai. But poor her luck, even Xiang Wai had to deal with some things.

    Mu Chenyan could only ask herself why she was such a pitiful aunt?

    Today was a rare day when both Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai were at home. Mu Chenyan finally got her chance, "Should we go out today?"

    It''s not like these siblings couldn''t see what was up with Mu Chenyan during the week they spent with her. She was really enthusiastic about taking them out. They didn''t know what her definition of fun was but they were actually curious about it.

    "Aunt, today Ge has an appointment with the doctor," told Xiang Wai. "That''s why I decided to stay home and go with him to the hospital."

    Mu Chenyan immediately changed her expression and turned serious, "Oh. Why didn''t you let me know earlier? When is the appointment? I''ll arrange the car. Are we going to the military hospital?"

    "No," said Xiang Wai but she didn''t tell her which hospital it was. Not like Mu Chenyan was paying attention at this moment. She was already rushing to get everything arranged to take her nephew to the hospital.

    "She is a very energetic person for someone of her age," said Xiang Wai.

    Xiang Weimin smiled at his sister''sment, "She isn''t an olddy."

    "No, but she sometimes acts like one," said Xiang Wai. "Oftentimes, she is like a young woman, and sometimes, she is like an olddy."

    "Well, she is certainly a lot more active than most women her age,"mented Xiang Weimin thoughtfully.

    "Oh, and she is also strong," told Xiang Wai. "The other day, I tried to drag her out of the kitchen but I couldn''t even move her a step. Can you believe it? With my strength, I wasn''t able to move her!"

    "That must have been a blow to you," Xiang Weimin chuckled making Xiang Wai re at him. "No wonder you had been running out every day to train secretly."

    "How can I let her win? How will I lift my head ever again?"

    "Old ginger is always spicier," was Xiang Weimin''s response. "You should keep that in mind. Her experience in fighting might be more than yours. Even if it doesn''t seem like it." He lowered his voice and added, "Haven''t you seen the security around Raelle or even in the Manor? Even the most basic cleaning maid is trained."

    Xiang Wai looked at her brother in surprise. She didn''t question the authenticity of her brother''s words. She knew she wasn''t as keen about certain things as he was. So, the things she often overlooked, he''d not. He''d pay attention to the smallest details.

    "The most special thing about the security around Raelle is that they are all ex mercenaries. And trust me, not some ordinary mercenaries who retired. They are dangerous. And the security in the manor consists of all the retired soldiers. Every single person is good at their job. And apparently, they are all under our dear aunt''smand. It''s not grandfather''s prestige. It''s our aunt''s. So, never underestimate her."

    "Suddenly, I don''t feel as bad as I did before," sighed Xiang Wai.

    *Ring!*

    Xiang Wai took the phone from the coffee table and said, "Ge, Papa is calling you." While Xiang Weimin extended his hand to take the phone, she actually epted the call, "Hi, Papa!"

    Xiang Hulin was a bit surprised to hear his daughter''s voice and checked the contact. Indeed, he called his son but it seemed they were together and Xiang Wai must have taken the phone from her brother. His expression softened as he answered, "Hi, daughter! How are you?"

    "I''m good," answered Xiang Wai. "I''m awesome!"

    "Oh, that I already know," said Xiang Hulin. "My daughter is indeed awesome. What are you doing?"

    "I was gonna take Ge to the hospital," told Xiang Wai. "But now, aunt is alsoing with us. From the hospital, she might take us out for fun. But I don''t know what this fun is."

    Xiang Hulin felt his head aching once he heard that his dear sister, Mu Chenyan was nning to take his kids out for fun. That was a recipe for disaster. The definition of fun in Mu Chenyan''s life was certainly something that didn''t resonate with him. Never did and never will. Even after all these years, he was certain that his sister didn''t change.

    "Don''t worry, I don''t know about anyone else but you''ll certainly enjoy your aunt''s definition of fun," stated Xiang Hulin. "Just take care of yourself and your brother. Your aunt is never up to any good so just be a bit more careful."

    Xiang Waiughed at her father''s reaction, "Papa, why does it sound like you''re kind of scared of aunt?"

    At this moment, he wished he could refute his daughter''s words but he just couldn''t do so. At the end of the day, he was actually a bit scared of his sister even though he was so much older than her. But this fear was different than what his daughter had in mind.

    "That sister of mine is more like an ancestor," was Xiang Hulin''s response. "I''m not scared of her but I''m scared of what she can do. And trust me, Chenchen is capable of doing anything. And by anything, I mean ANYTHING!"

 Chapter 619 Bad Influence

    <h4>Chapter 619 Bad Influence</h4>

    Even if his daughterughed at him right now, Xiang Hulin wouldn''t mind it. He just couldn''t give the details of the troubles Mu Chenyan caused. Everything she did could be written in history and it was legendary. That''s why he often called Mu Chenyan his ancestor.

    "Oh, I''m suddenly even more curious about exactly what is my dear aunt capable of," said Xiang Wai with a teasing smile.

    Xiang Weimin took the phone from her and greeted his father before asking, "Dad, is everything alright? Why are you suddenly looking for me?"

    "It''s like this. I''ming to Kia City in the next week," he told his son. "I was thinking if I got some time, I''ll contact you both and we can have dinner together?"

    Xiang Weimin looked at his sister, "Dinner with dad, you up for it?"

    Xiang Wai raised her brow in surprise, "Really? When? Where?"

    "Next week," told Xiang Weimin. "You can pick the location. Dad and I''ll just follow."

    Xiang Wai was pleased to hear that, "Okay! I''m up for it!" Then she moved closer to the speaker of the phone that was against Xiang Weimin''s ear before saying, "Papa, I''ll be waiting for you." When she said it, she really had a sincere smile on her face. The happiness came from her heart. It had been such a long time since she got to sit together with both her father and brother together for a meal. She was obviously looking forward to it.

    Xiang Hulin also smiled unconsciously when he heard his daughter''s voice, "Okay then. I''ll see you both next week." He took a pause, hesitating a little. But in the end, he still said, "Son, I hope you take care of your grandfather."

    Xiang Weimin sighed, "For that, my aunt has to give me a little chance. She is the one who takes care of everything. I really can''t find an opportunity to do anything."

    "Right, I shouldn''t forget about how particr my sister is," said Xiang Hulin. "I have to go now. Let me know what the doctor said."

    "Okay."

    As he hung up the call, he found Xiang Wai staring at him thoughtfully, "Ge, why do you think Papa ising over?"

    "Of course, it has something to do with work," was Xiang Weimin''s response.

    They didn''t get to dwell over it for long before Mu Chenyan came back and said, "Alright. Everything is ready. Let''s go to the hospital."

    Both of them didn''t talk and got up to follow her. It was obvious that they couldn''t avoid going to the hospital with Mu Chenyan.

    Before leaving, she didn''t forget to shout at Yue, "After the appointment, I''ll call you. Let''s meet at the venue."

    Yue Yue looked at Mu Chenyan''s niece and nephew who were also looking at her and smiled at them before giving Mu Chenyan an okay sign with her hand. She also couldn''t avoid this best friend.

    As they got into the car, Xiang Wai said, "Aunt, you know we could have just gone on our own."

    "What are you saying? Even if I agreed to that, Elder Xiang would skin me alive," replied Mu Chenyan. "Don''t think about it anymore."

    "But we are disturbing you," said Xiang Weimin. "You''re also a busy person."

    "Who said that?" asked Mu Chenyan as she raised her brow at them. "Who said I''m a busy person? I''m the person with the freest time in this family. I don''t even have a job. What can I be busy with?" She smiled at them gently as she continued, "You see my parents and your grandmother left me so much inheritance because they wanted to turn me into a salted fish. You know, azy bum who can create trouble left and right and solve it by throwing money at others'' faces."

    Xiang Wai chuckled, "That sounds very domineering. But I don''t think aunt you''re the kind of a person to spend money to solve your problems."

    "Of course, I am not," was her response. "Why should I throw my money at them when I can throw free punches? It costs nothing!"

    "Wow! Aunt, you''re certainly a bad influence on kids," said Xiang Weimin.

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her nose awkwardly, "You both are adults now. I certainly don''t talk like this with kids."

    Xiang Weimin thought of something and asked, "Aunt, dad ising next week and we''ll be having dinner together. Do you want to join us?"

    "What Ge ising?" Mu Chenyan''s eyes brightened before the light instantly went out again. She feigned a cough, "Oh, then just let me know the day. I won''t prepare your share of the dinner that day."

    Xiang Wai was not certain why his brother talked about their father right now. But when she saw Mu Chenyan''s reaction, she was quite surprised. On the other hand, Xiang Weimin was very amused by Mu Chenyan''s reaction.

    It seemed whatever he heard about the feelings between his father and his aunt was actually true. Even after all these years, these siblings really had feelings for each other.

    Because of the topic of Xiang Hulin, Mu Chenyan was quite depressed for the rest of the ride. That was her brother! No matter how she yelled at him or caused him trouble or mocked him or got into fights with him. He was still her favorite brother in the world! A position she wasn''t willing to give anyone else. Because to her, there was just no one like her brother out there!

    It had been so many years they had been apart but he was still the brother she looked up to. In fact, she was more proud of her brother than she would care to admit.

    "Miss Mu, we are here," announced the driver, pulling Mu Chenyan out of her thoughts. She looked up and realized that they were already at the hospital. In her daze, she didn''t notice anything else and just got out of the car.

 Chapter 620 Quite Taxing

    <h4>Chapter 620 Quite Taxing</h4>

    "Doctor, is there anything we need to pay attention to?" asked Mu Chenyan while Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai stood to the side with a helpless look on their faces. It couldn''t be helped. Their aunt was just that kind of a person. She had to have the detailed information in her hands.

    From the time they met the doctor, she was silent but after the examination, her questions started pouring out. In fact, her knowledge of his injury was so thorough that it shocked Xiang Weimin. It made him realize how she had always been keeping an eye on him while he was oblivious to it all.

    On the other hand, Xiang Wai was impressed by Mu Chenyan''s understanding of medical terminologies. The way the doctor looked at Mu Chenyan with an excited look and conversed with her like they were old friends really made her look at her aunt once again. Just what kind of a devil her aunt was?

    It seemed when her father said she was capable of anything. He really meant ANYTHING!

    "Lieutenant Colonel Xiang, with your elder sister taking care of you, I can be assured," said the doctor.

    Xiang Weimin pursed his lips before saying, "That''s my aunt."

    The doctor nced at Mu Chenyan and gaped tantly, "My mistake. I''m sorry."

    "It''s okay," Mu Chenyan said casually as if it didn''t matter. And it indeed didn''t matter. Even she would agree that it was hard to tell her age just from her looks alone.

    The doctor cleared his throat and added, "Anyway, you don''t have toe for a regr checkup every week from now on. We can see each other after 14 days."

    "Okay," replied Xiang Weimin.

    When they walked out of the doctor''s office, Mu Chenyan held Xiang Weimin''s reports in her hands and was thinking about something. She didn''t see where she was going and suddenly a voice came from behind that startled her.

    "You heartless brat! Stop right there!"

    Mu Chenyan immediately stopped and asked, "Are we in the Hope Foundation Hospital?"

    "Yes," answered Xiang Wai.

    Mu Chenyan facepalmed herself. "Shut the front door! Why didn''t I pay attention to this detail?" The mey with herself. Because she was so focused on Xiang Weimin''s appointment with the doctor that she didn''t even care where the doctor was. But now that she was reminded which hospital they were in. She could only sigh at her bad luck.

    She turned around with a smile and waved at that old man surrounded by doctors in white coats. "Hi, Uncle Gou! You''re looking... old."

    Professor Gou Danhong''s face twitched when he heard thatmenting from her. He so wanted to smack this heartless brat. Even though he was her maternal uncle, she was never willing to give him the same respect that she gave Xiang Tianyu. He didn''t mind that. He knew what the Xiang family meant to Mu Chenyan. What he did mind was this brat''s attitude! How could she cut off all contact with her own rtives?!

    As they stood in the busy hospital, the doctors surrounding Professor Gou were gobsmacked right now. The dean of their hospital was looking furiously at the beautiful woman. They were suddenly scared for thatdy.

    However, who knew once Professor Gou walked to Mu Chenyan''s side, he raised his hand and rubbed her head as if messing with her hair on purpose to vent his anger. "Heartless brat! Don''t even care a little about your uncle! Were you nning on onlying when you heard the news of my funeral?!"

    Mu Chenyan let him do whatever he wanted but still didn''t forget to reply, "How can that be? Bad people don''t die that soon or that easily."

    "You!" Professor Gou looked at her helplessly. "I left a message for you."

    Mu Chenyan fixed her hair and told him, "My Elle delivered your words to me."

    "And you still didn''t bother looking for me?"

    "Uncle, you''re a busy person. How can I waste your time by showing up so casually? I was nning on finding the time to make an appointment with you. In fact, I came today for that purpose."

    "Really?"

    "You can ask these two," Mu Chenyan threw the pot to her niece and nephew without feeling guilty at all. "Right, Weimin and Wai?"

    What could the siblings do right now? They were appalled by their aunt''s act but they still nodded in agreement with her.

    "Tsk! Don''t you feel bad teaching the younger generation to lie with you?" Professor Gou Danhong didn''t even fall for her schemes even for a second. He might not have spent a lot of time with Mu Chenyan but he was all too familiar with what kind of a person she was. He could only sigh to himself at the helplessness he felt whenever he came around her.

    She was a child who grew up without parents so most people weren''t able to control her. She was rebellious to the point that she could make you feel like strangling her. Back then, even her maternal family wanted to take her home to raise but in the end, they couldn''t control her. The only people she listened to were Elder Xiang and his wife.

    "You''ve been back for almost a year and yet didn''t bothering to see anyone from the family. Do you really not take us as a family?"

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips and smiled at him, "Uncle, we are blood-rted. I can''t possibly deny this rtionship even if I want to."

    "Then why do you want to stay away from us?" asked Professor Gou. "Is it because of..."

    He didn''t get toplete his sentence when Mu Chenyan interrupted him, "I don''t want to make anyone in the Gou family feel inferior and doubt their abilities." She flipped her hair arrogantly, "After all, having a legendary cousin like me can be quite taxing."

    Professor Gou''s lips twitched at her narcissism while Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai covered their lips to hide their smiles. Their aunt was just too much. It seemed she was only cautious with them. As for the rest of the world? She had a sharp tongue!

 Chapter 621 Elder Sister

    <h4>Chapter 621 Elder Sister</h4>

    In fact, Professor Gou didn''t think her words were wrong. She was really the invisible enemy to everyone in the family. After all, as she said, she was a legend. Herpetence couldn''t be described just in words. She could really make anyone doubt themselves. She was just that kind of existence.

    Mu Chenyan patted her uncle''s shoulder like she was talking to an old friend and said, "Uncle, I''lle to see you some other time. And don''t overthink. You should know by now, I don''t take things to my heart. You''re my uncle. You''re my mother''s family. How can I forget you?"

    "Forget it. I don''t even know if I''ll be alive if I waited for you," said Professor Gou. "I''lle and pay a visit to Brother Tian as well."

    Mu Chenyan instantly nodded as her eyes brightened, "Yes, yes, you shoulde and spend some time with Elder Xiang. He is always alone. So, if you have time, doe over."

    Professor Gou feltplicated in his heart when he looked at her expressions. She was so happy just because he wanted toe to visit Xiang Tianyu. In the end, she was happy because he''d be givingpany to her Elder Xiang.

    "I wille," he told her. "But why are you?"

    "Oh, my nephew had an appointment here," said Mu Chenyan.

    Professor Gou looked at the tall man beside her while she introduced them, "This is my nephew. Lieutenant Colonel Xiang Weimin and that''s my niece, Major Xiang Wai. As for the youngest one, you already met her."

    Professor Gou''s eyes looking at Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai changed once he heard the introduction. He smiled amicably at them and greeted them before telling Mu Chenyan, "Yes, I met the youngest one. She left quite an impression."

    Mu Chenyan chuckled, "I wouldn''t expect any less from her."

    The pride in her voice couldn''t be overlooked. Professor Gou touched her head once again but this time, he did it gently, "Come, Uncle will buy you lunch."

    "There is still time for lunch," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Then I''ll buy you a drink," he added.

    "Uncle, I am old now. I don''t need you to buy me a candy to coax me."

    "You brat! I couldn''t coax you with candy even when you''re three!"

    Mu Chenyan nodded seriously, "True. I just never was the candy girl."

    "Take care of yourself," said Professor Gou Danhong and even exchanged a few sentences with the Xiang siblings before going back to join the group of doctors who had been eyeing this scene while pretending to not look.

    They all had the same question. Who was this woman? How was she rted to the dean? And why was their dean so nice to her? It had to be pointed out that their dean wasn''t even this gentle when he spoke to his own daughter.

    "Aunt, youe from a doctor family," said Xiang Weimin.

    "Yes," answered Mu Chenyan. "Both my paternal and maternal families had a long list of doctors that served the nation and its people. But I ain''t a doctor."

    "I heard you dropped out of medical school," said Xiang Wai.

    Mu Chenyan nodded, "I did." She didn''t think there was anything to hide about that.

    "Why?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "Because I didn''t have the lofty ambition of serving the nation or its people. I was always a selfish person and I always just wanted to live for myself," was Mu Chenyan''s serious reply to the two of them. "Doctors need to havepassion, I have none. As you just heard from my uncle, I''m just a heartless brat. And doctors can''t be heartless. So, I was never suitable for this profession."

    However, both siblings actually didn''t believe her words at all. Because they couldn''t tell how she was a selfish person at all. If she was selfish, why did she spend her whole life on Raelle? Or taking care of their grandfather? In fact, whether it was Raelle or Grandfather Xiang, neither was Mu Chenyan''s responsibility at all.

    But she still put effort, time, hard work, and even her feelings into taking care of everything.

    And that''s why they couldn''t take her as a selfish or a heartless person at all. Even when it came to them, they couldn''t find a fault in her for anything.

    "Why did I have to run into him here?" Mu Chenyan was stillmenting to herself when they got into the car. "Now, I''ll have to find a chance to meet him again."

    "Aunt, you don''t like your maternal family?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "It''s nothing like that," said Mu Chenyan. "It''s just that... I don''t have time for this family reunion stuff."

    "And just a couple of hours ago, you were saying how you''re the freest person in the family. You have all the time in the world."

    Mu Chenyan felt like she had smacked her own foot by saying that. But she was the one who said it, she couldn''t deny it. "Okay. I have time but I don''t have the energy."

    "Now, you''re suddenly acting like an olddy," Xiang Wai pointed out.

    "But I am an olddy," she argued.

    "How so? Didn''t you hear from the doctor earlier? He thought you''re my elder sister!" Xiang Weimin was still amused by that.

    Mu Chenyan scrunched up her nose, "Maybe there is something wrong with the doctor''s eyes?"

    "It seems aunt just loves to prove herself right," said Xiang Wai.

    "I have always been right," said Mu Chenyan. "But even if I don''t look like it. I''m in my forties. I am a middle-aged woman. How much energy can I possibly have?"

    "At least, more than most women your age," was Xiang Wai''s response.

    "You girl, really..." Mu Chenyan didn''t continue and just sighed to herself. "Forget it. I lost."

    What she didn''t tell them was that what she said to her uncle earlier was absolutely true. Her cousins were actually threatened by her presence because they couldn''t shine when she was around. Even though she had been looking like a salted fish, they were still not herpetition.

 Chapter 622 Someone Better

    <h4>Chapter 622 Someone Better</h4>

    While Mu Chenyan had gone to the hospital, Yue Yue had actually taken a box with her and came to the military base. She came to see her own nephew. It was the first time for her to be here but since it was Elder Xiang who arranged everything for her visit, she didn''t have to worry about anything.

    She was easily able to enter the base after a regr identity check. Someone even directed her toward Zhai Yanjun''s dormitory.

    "Ayi!"

    Zhai Yanjun was sweating profusely when he came running to her. When he heard that he had a visitor, he was so shocked that he froze for a whole minute. After all, apart from his father, no one came to visit him at the base. And his father would also note so casually.

    His eyes were sparkling when he looked at Yue Yue and even hugged her petite body happily. "What are you doing here? Why didn''t you tell me, you''reing?" He had so much to ask but he couldn''t say much right now.

    Yue Yue felt distressed looking at his tanned skin and that sweat rolling down the side of his face. She took out a handkerchief and wiped his sweat.

    Zhai Yanjun obediently allowed her to do whatever she wanted. He didn''t care that his subordinates were watching from the side with their jaws hanging. He was basking in the warmth that this woman brought to him.

    People had been telling him that he was changing. Zhai Yanjun didn''t know what change it was. But he was certain that even if he was unconsciously changing, it was because of his aunt. Because he was feeling genuinely happytely.

    "Ayi, don''t just stand here. Let''s go inside the dormitory," said Zhai Yanjun and hurriedly unlocked the door of the dormitory room. However, when he looked at the condition of his dorm, he wanted to backtrack and leave.

    It was alreadyte though. Yue Yue had already seen it all. Seeing his embarrassed look, Yue Yue didn''t know what to say. She still smiled gently at him and typed on her phone, ''Where is the discipline of a soldier?''

    Zhai Yanjun scratched his head and lowered his eyes, "I was busy in thest few days because of the intense training. So, I didn''t get the chance to clean up. I promise it''s not always like this."

    Yue Yue chuckled silently at his reaction and punched his cheek before she went over and cleared up the wooden table that was filled with a half-eaten box of instant noodles. A pack of biscuits and other suck snacks. Everything was just scattered there. She threw it all in the trash can and then she ced the meal that she brought for him on the table.

    ''Don''t just stand there, I prepared it all for you.''

    Zhai Yanjun looked at the array of food and then he looked at her. Smiling at her, he said, "Ayi, didn''t I tell you not to do this? You sent me a meal a couple of days ago. Now, you''re here yourself."

    ''I had time the other day and I have time today. It''s not even a big deal. Talk less and eat more.''

    Zhai Yanjun chuckled when he heard that mechanical voice from her phone. "Ayi, you''ll spoil me this way."

    ''That''s the n.''

    Zhai Yanjun was even happier to hear that and instantly when to wash up beforeing to sit down and gobble up the food. He couldn''t possibly say no to the food prepared with love and care, right? After all, no matter how good the food was at the canteen, it could never match the warmth of this home-cooked meal.

    While he ate, he noticed how Yue Yue got busy making his bed. She first changed his sheets and then she even washed his sheets and clothes that he had gathered in the room. He tried to stop her multiple times but she wasn''t willing to listen. She already thought he had it tough in the military, now looking at his living conditions, she was even more worried about him.

    After cleaning up his room, she came to sit beside him and poked his chest before typing on her phone, ''If you continued like this, how will you get a girlfriend?''

    "I''m so handsome. Someone must be willing to be my girlfriend," he told her cheekily.

    ''Face is not everything,'' she pointed out.

    Zhai Yanjun shrugged carelessly, "Some people only look at the face. So, I''m sure someone will be out there who is willing to love me with all my ws."

    Yue Yue eyed him carefully, ''You said it like there is already someone.'' Zhai Yanjun''s eyes widened when he heard that. ''Spill it! Who is it?''

    "No one," he replied.

    ''Don''t lie to me.''

    Zhai Yanjun was actually quite weak before Yue Yue''s eyes and could only tell her honestly, "I had a girlfriend. We dated for ten years but we broke up."

    ''Why?''

    "Because she loved me too much and I didn''t love her enough."

    Yue Yue frowned at his words. She patted his head. ''But you do love her?''

    Zhai Yanjun smiled at her softly, "Ayi, maybe I really don''t know what love is. How can a person who didn''t even know how to love himself be able to love someone else right? I wasted too much of her time and her feelings just because I wasn''t able to find the right way to love her."

    Yue Yue''s heart hurt for her nephew and she cated him, ''There is no right way to love someone. There isn''t a wrong way either. You just have to love her. And if you still love her, there is no way she won''t be yours.''

    Zhai Yanjun shook his head, "Nah. I don''t want to waste any more time of her. Maybe she can really find someone better than me. So, why should I tie her to my side and ask her to wait for me to figure out my feelings? She doesn''t deserve that."

 Chapter 623 Make A Choice

    <h4>Chapter 623 Make A Choice</h4>

    ''Someone better?'' Yue Yue looked at him in displeasure. ''And why don''t you be that someone better for her?''

    Zhai Yanjun was stunned. He didn''t know how to answer that question. Why didn''t he think about this? He had been thinking about a lot of thingstely but none involved chasing Xiang Wai back. Because he truly felt like he didn''t deserve her. He was the scum in their rtionship. He shouldn''t ask her for understanding or anything.

    He''s the one who allowed his gratitude to overshadow his love for Xiang Wai. He never made her feel loved. How could he dare dream of her again? But it was true that he wanted to see her happy.

    "She had exhausted her feelings for me," said Zhai Yanjun. "I don''t dare ask her to be with me. I am a very tiring person. I don''t know how she managed to stay with me for so long. I could be unbearable. I know that too. When we broke up, I did want to know who was right and wrong between us. But not anymore. Now, I just want to see her happy. She really deserves to be happy."

    Yue Yue could tell that he really liked this girl he was talking about. Maybe he didn''t even realize it himself. Or maybe he finally did understand but was too scared to face these feelings now that it was toote. But was it really toote?

    She sighed to herself.

    ''Don''t wish her happiness. Bring that happiness to her.''

    Zhai Yanjun looked at his aunt in confusion.

    ''You can''t just leave after taking her youth. Even if you don''t want to get back together, it''s your responsibility to make her happy. Don''t be so scared to try. Even if you''re a difficult person, she still spent years with you. Feelings don''t fade that easily.''

    She patted his head lovingly as she stood up, ''Think about what I said. Are you okay with seeing her happy with someone else or do you want to be a part of that happiness? Or maybe be the reason for that smile on her face? Wishing someone happiness is too easy, my dear child. It''s hard to be the reason for that happiness. You have to choose on which side you want to stand. I hope you make the right choice.''

    "You''re leaving?" he asked seeing her taking her bag to leave.

    Yue Yue nodded her head, ''I have ns with Chenyan. I''ll see you some other day. Okay?''

    Zhai Yanjun was a bit reluctant but he still agreed, "Alright. Then take care!"

    ''You too!''

    ....

    It was unexpected for Yue Yue to know that her nephew''s love life was so messed up. But at least, he had a love life, unlike her own son who was too far away from the word love. Sometimes, she even wondered if she''d be able to see her son getting married in her life. For now, this seemed like a dream.

    Although she knew about his sexuality, she was also told that asexual people do get married and spend normal lives. But it takes them a lot more effort to find their partners. She never forced Hyson to date but that didn''t mean, she wasn''t looking forward to it. She couldn''t possibly be alive forever. She was afraid that her son would be lonely once she is no more.

    But it was also true that it was difficult for Hyson to be lonely with Raelle around. However, Raelle was still a best friend. She didn''t wish for her son to spend a lonely life like her own. At least she had a son. What will her son do?

    With these thoughts, she didn''t even realize when she arrived at the destination that Mu Chenyan had asked her toe to. She got out and looked at the venue. She didn''t expect Mu Chenyan''s n was this for today.

    In moments like these, she wanted to smack open Mu Chenyan''s head like walnut to check what exactly was inside.

    "Yue! You''re here!"

    Yue looked behind her and found Mu Chenyan alighting from the car. She pursed her lips and pointed at the venue, ''Seriously? Isn''t this too nd for your taste?''

    Mu Chenyan eyed her, "What do you mean? It''s rock climbing. Isn''t it fun?"

    ''Fun!'' responded Yue Yue. ''But it''s too easy for you, no?'' She had seen how much this woman loved extreme sports. And even though rock climbing counted as an extreme sport, she thought it was like child''s y for someone like Mu Chenyan.

    Mu Chenyan leaned over and lowered her voice to say, "I can''t show my extreme at the very beginning. I have to first..."

    ''Get your prey into the trap?''

    Mu Chenyan red at her, "Are you really my friend?"

    ''I am,'' answered Yue.

    "Aunt, we are rock climbing?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Yes!" answered Mu Chenyan. "Weimin won''t be able to join us. But he can watch. Or we can go and watch a horse race. Wanna bet on a jockey?"

    Yue pped her arm, ''Be a good example! What do you mean by betting? Is it nice to show them the way to gambling?''

    "But it''s fun," Mu Chenyan argued. "Anyway, forget it. With Weimin''s condition, we can''t do much. We have to take things slowly."

    "How thoughtful," said Xiang Weimin. "However, I think I can join the rock climbing."

    "No, you can''t!" was Mu Chenyan''s response. Although she also thought rock climbing wasn''t all that fun, she still couldn''t really take them straight to join rallying or maybe, motocross? Even though those were one of her favorite sports.

    "Aunt is right. Ge, you take a seat and just cheer for me," said Xiang Wai. "I''ll win this time. Aunt, you up for anotherpetition?"

    Mu Chenyan''s brows knitted up, "Do you lovepeting with me?"

    "Yes!" answered Xiang Wai. "You''re my biggestpetition right now."

    Mu Chenyanughed, "I feel honored." She shook her head and went to get the gears for everyone.

    Although Xiang Weimin looked unwilling, he couldn''t do anything either. He knew he wouldn''t be able to act impudently with his aunt around.

 Chapter 624 Bingo!

    <h4>Chapter 624 Bingo!</h4>

    Mu Chenyan not only took them rock climbing, she even went to watch the horse race. She was acting like the cool aunt who wants to have fun. But Yue Yue was getting a headache from her act. For now, she could see that Mu Chenyan was hiding her fangs but for how long?

    The Mu Chenyan who would rather go to a real wilderness to experience real rock climbing, was actually taking her niece and nephew to y in a rock climbing club? It was a sight too spicy for her. As for horse racing? When had Mu Chenyane only to watch the race? She''d rather be a part of the race than be a spectator.

    ''You aren''t gonna get on the track today?''

    Mu Chenyan took a sip of the water sitting in the VIP box and answered in a low voice, "I''m trying to act like a good aunt. Can''t you tell? What if I took things too far?"

    Even though they were just doing things at a safe level, it had to be said that Mu Chenyan was indeed a fun person to be around. Both Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai had an awesome time with her. They had lunch outside, they did very silly things as well but it was all enjoyable.

    In the evening, she even took them out drinking with her. The reason?

    "I always wanted to go out drinking with both of you," said Mu Chenyan. "If it weren''t for..." She stopped herself from continuing and only added, "I thought I''d be the one to take you both out for your very first drink. It''ste but I don''t mind making up for it."

    "Aunt, did you teach Raelle how to drink?" asked Xiang Wai.

    Mu Chenyan tsked at that, "No, I did not. She waited for six months after her eighteenth birthday and on Hyson''s 18th birthday, she took him out for a drink. But I can assure you, drinking with Elle is no fun. If anything, it can be tiring and embarrassing."

    "Why? She doesn''t get drunk?" asked Xiang Wai curiously.

    Mu Chenyan shook her head, "Nope, she does. But you can''t tell if she is drunk. Unless she ispletely wasted!"

    On the side, Yue Yue just sipped her cocktail slowly as she watched Mu Chenyan mixing drinks and getting drunk without any restraint. Wow, she really lost her reserved behavior in front of these two. It took her a while but she was finally showing her real self.

    And here she thought her best friend would use this time productively to bond with her niece and nephew. But what did her best friend do? Urgh! Even she was feeling infuriated right now. But seeing how these three seemed to be having real fun, she couldn''t say anything. Forget it, it''s not like her idea of fun ever matched Mu Chenyan''s.

    As long as Mu Chenyan was able to get close to these siblings, it really didn''t matter what method she used. She was suddenly reminded of something Mu Chenyan once told her, "To get close to someone, go out drinking with that person." And it seemed, she was applying her own words and it was actually working.

    .....

    Time seemed to be trickling away swiftly. Day by day, there was a new morning, a new sun, but whether it''d be the new you depended on yourself.

    Today, Shui Xian was waiting inside his office for none other than his ex-best friend, Cui Xukun. Although he didn''t know why this person wanted to see him, he still agreed to this meeting just because of Cloe.

    *Knock! Knock!*

    After knocking on the door, Ma Jin opened the door with Cui Xukun standing beside him. "Master Xian, Mr. Cui is here."

    "Okay," said Shui Xian as he stood up from his leather chair. "Have a seat," Shui Xian gestured towards the sitting area and also came to join him.

    Cui Xukun sat down on the sofa and faced Shui Xian.

    "I heard you wanted to meet me?" questioned Shui Xian.

    "I did," answered Cui Xukun.

    "So, what is it about?" asked Shui Xian.

    "So straight to the point?" Cui Xukun raised a brow at Shui Xian, "Won''t you even exchange some perfunctory pleasantries?"

    "My wife just made me realize how pointless it is to waste time on pleasantries when you can use the same time doing something more productive," was Shui Xian''s response. "So, what it is about?"

    Cui Xukun opened his mouth to say something but suddenly stopped. He had been meaning to talk about seeing Tang Hebe with him. And also the child he saw with her. However, now that he sat before Shui Xian, he suddenly felt like just how pointless that was.

    Even if Tang Hebe was here, did it have anything to do with Shui Xian?

    With the way Shui Xian talked about his wife, it was obvious that his ex-wife wasn''t even on his mind. Then why was he here to talk about her? He suddenly found his own reasons toe here rather useless.

    Neither Tang Hebe nor anything rted to her had anything to do with Shui Xian. And when he chose to step away from both of them, he was meant to keep his distance from their rtionship. So, now that their rtionship was no more, why was he trying to get involved?

    "Do you have something to say or not?" asked Shui Xian. "Or did youe to my office to admire my handsome face?"

    Cui Xukun gave Shui Xian a strange look, "When did you get so narcissist?"

    "Well, my wife says I''m handsome," was Shui Xian''s response. "That''s enough reason to boost my ego. Don''t you think so?"

    "Can you talk without bringing up your wife every other sentence?" asked Cui Xukun.

    Shui Xian shook his head resolutely, "I don''t think so. She is everywhere in my life. She is my other half. Why can''t I bring her up whenever I want to?"

    "Because I feel like you''re showing off!"

    "Bingo! That''s exactly what I''m doing!"

 Chapter 625 Blind

    <h4>Chapter 625 Blind</h4>

    "Don''t waste my time. Get to the point," said Shui Xian. "Why are you here? Is there something you want to say?"

    "I do have something to say," Cui Xukun straightened up and cleared up his thoughts. "I know you aren''t willing to forgive me for my mistakes."

    Shui Xian''s face hardened when he heard him bringing that topic up again. Was he supposed to forgive him? Why should he? They were such good friends and yet this good friend of his chose to run away just because they fell for the same girl? And that girl in the end chose him?

    But Shui Xian knew that the same scenario often made even brothers turn against each other. They were just friends. And Cui Xukun had only wanted to distance himself because he felt like it''d be weird for the three of them if he was around.

    Even if Shui Xian was able to understand all of that now that he thought about it carefully. He was still not able to ept Cui Xukun back into his life. He truly treated him like a brother and he wasn''t there when Shui Xian really needed the support of a friend, a brother.

    In fact, Shui Xian had to say that the one who was always around was still the introverted Zhai Yanjun. Even with his own life shrouded in gloom, he was always willing toe to Shui Xian whenever thetter needed him. Wasn''t that the real friendship was all about? Even if they didn''t talk for months, he knew if he called Zhai Yanjun woulde.

    "However, I don''t want us to be so estranged," said Cui Xukun.

    "You asked Cloe to arrange a meeting with me just to talk about this?" Shui Xian raised his brows at him inquisitively. It was actually difficult for him to believe that this was the real reason behind why Cui Xukun didn''t even mind going through Cloe to reach out to him.

    "Whatever I really came to say seems pointless right now that I''m sitting before you," told Cui Xukun honestly. "But since I''m here, I''d like to take this opportunity to say something to you. I know I wasn''t acting like a very good friend when I just disappeared like that. I know my mistake. However, I don''t want that to be the reason for us to be enemies either."

    "I don''t consider you an enemy," answered Shui Xian. "At most, I''ll just take you as an acquaintance."

    "But you won''t take me as a friend?"

    "Nope," said Shui Xian. "That train has long left the tform. Let''s not even talk about it."

    Ma Jin knocked on the door again and opened the door bringing with him an assistant who held a tray. She served the coffee to both of them and ced some snacks on the table before leaving respectfully.

    Only when they left the office, did Shui Xian pick up his own cup of coffee while telling him, "But since you''re here, I''ll let you know that I don''t have any hard feelings for you anymore."

    "Huh?" Cui Xukun''s hand which was about to touch the porcin cup paused mid-air. He couldn''t believe what he just heard. Was he hearing the right thing?

    Looking at his confusion, Shui Xian sipped his coffee leisurely and only then borated, "I shouldn''t even be holding so many hard feelings for so long. We were teenagers when it happened. We are both grown-ups now. We shouldn''t be wasting so many feelings on each other. You should stop feeling guilty towards me and I''ll stop ming you for not being there. Fair enough, right?"

    Cui Xukun was still dumbstruck and found his voice with difficulty to question, "Are you really the Xian I knew?"

    "No," replied Shui Xian. "It''s been years. Do you really expect to see the same Xian after so long? So many things have changed in the world in these years. Don''t keep thinking about the past." He took a pause and added, "Since you''re serious about Cloe and she happens to be a very important person to my wife, it''s only right that I stop holding grudge against you. It''ll make things difficult for Cloe and I won''t like that."

    "So, you''re doing this for my girlfriend?" questioned Cui Xukun.

    "If it''ll make things difficult for Cloe, it''ll affect her work efficiency which in turn will affect my wife''s work," Shui Xian went on. "So, no. I am not doing it for your girlfriend. I''m doing it for my wife. Especially since my wife thinks that feelings like hatred are tiring. So, I''d rather love her more than find time to hate you instead."

    Cui Xukun felt like he was just fed dog food. Why did hee here again?

    "So from now, let''s just be Shui Xian and Cui Xukun," added Shui Xian. "There is no need to sound so familiar with me. It''s not needed."

    "I''m actually questioning whether I''m familiar with you or not," was Cui Xukun''s reply. He was honestly wondering if he knew this Shui Xian or not. And the answer was, no! Every single time he met Shui Xian since he came back, he always felt like he just didn''t know this Shui Xian at all. And today was no different.

    "When are you holding a wedding?" asked Cui Xukun out of nowhere.

    Shui Xian frowned at that question, "Do I need to inform you?"

    Cui Xukun, "What? You won''t invite me?"

    "I''ll invite Cloe, you can tag along as her plus one," responded Shui Xian.

    "Bastard!"

    "You''re no better!" said Shui Xian.

    "Being a businessman really changed you," said Cui Xukun with a sigh. "When you''re that bright and lively singer and songwriter, you''re fun. Now, you''re annoying."

    "I don''t need to impress you, so my goal is indeed to annoy you."

    "How does your wife live with you?"

    "Maybe I should also call Cloe to ask, what did she see in you? Did she go blind on that blind date to actually pick you up?"

    "Hey! That''s not fair!"

    By now, Cui Xukun had long forgotten the reason why he actually came here and Shui Xian had long let go of the earlier anger he held towards Cui Xukun. He realized it was more fun in teasing Cui Xukun.

    This way, they might not find their friendship back but there was hope to find amon ground to exist on. Since it was unavoidable that they''d run into each other more and more in the future.

 Chapter 626 Biased Grandparents

    <h4>Chapter 626 Biased Grandparents</h4>

    Grandfather Zhai and Grandmother Zhai were surprised to see their soning home with a huge smile on his face. They both were having tea while enjoying thepany of each other in this old age when their son came to disturb them.

    "How did you think of visiting your old parents?" questioned Grandfather Zhai sternly. He didn''t show a good face to his only son. All his gentleness and patience were reserved for his wife and their dear grandson. As for this son, huh! It was already a miracle that he had never beaten him up. "And what''s with that ugly smile? Put it away already! Don''t scare the kids."

    Zhai Kuijun''s smile stiffened when he heard his father''sment but he chose to ignore it today. It didn''t matter. He could definitely take this much. It wasn''t the first time his father was so disdainful toward him. "Father, where are the kids? There are no kids who will be scared of my smile."

    "But my old heart can''t take it either," retorted Grandfather Zhai.

    Grandmother Zhai lightly pped the back of Grandfather Zhai''s hand as she rebuked him, "Don''t talk like that. It''s rare to see our son in such a happy mood. So, just let him be."

    Grandfather Zhai harrumphed but didn''t say anything to anyone.

    Grandmother Zhai looked at her son and asked, "But what has really gotten into you? Why do you look so happy? Did you hit a jackpot?"

    "You can say that," was Zhai Kuijun''s response. "I''m just very happy today. I feel so good that I feel like celebrating." Something clicked in his mind and nodded to himself, "Yes, let''s celebrate today. Mother, call Yanjun back for dinner as well. I''ll cook for everyone today."

    "You''re trying to celebrate or trying to poison us to death?"

    Zhai Kuijun looked at his father, "Father, you don''t have to be so skeptical about my intentions. I genuinely want to celebrate by cooking for you all. And don''t worry, I might not be a fancy cook but my food is edible! I promise."

    "I think I heard this before and the consequences weren''t really pretty," said Grandfather Zhai with an ugly expression which made Zhai Kuijun feel embarrassed.

    He could instantly recall what his father was talking about. Thest time he had acted like this was when Zhai Yanjun''s mother had epted his proposal. He was so happy that he cooked dinner for his parents. The result? His parents almost had to visit the hospital. He didn''t think his old ck history will be dragged out at this age.

    He coughed to hide his embarrassment and said, "I was young back then. I promise it isn''t the same anymore. I''ve learned my lesson after all these years."

    "I hope so," said Grandfather Zhai and picked up his phone to call his grandson. As soon as the call connected, he smiled gently and spoke softly, "Dear grandson, do you have time to have dinner with family tonight?"

    "Sure," answered Zhai Yanjun. Although he didn''t know why he was called back home for dinner, it didn''t concern him. Lately, he was in an extremely happy mood. So, he didn''t mind almost anything. He hadn''t been home to see his grandparents in a while anyway. So, he''d just take this chance to meet them.

    "Okay then we''ll be waiting for you," replied Grandfather Zhai happily and hung up the phone. He looked up at his son who was looking at him with a sour look and said, "Jun will be home for dinner."

    "Howe you don''t call me back home for dinner in such a nice manner?" asked Zhai Kuijun. "Scratch that! I should ask why you don''t even talk to me that nicely? Am I not your son? Then why is your love so overflowing only when ites to your grandson?"

    "Didn''t you hear that grandparents always are biased towards their grandchildren?" asked Grandmother Zhai. "And it''s not like we abused you or anything. It''s just that we love Jun a little more than you."

    "A little?" Zhai Kuijun''s lips twitched when he heard that. He didn''t even want toment on this. "Since the character, Jun is the same for me and my son, I''ll just think you both are talking about loving me more."

    "Whatever keeps you happy, son," said Grandmother Zhai. "Now, shoo already! When are you gonna cook? Don''t waste time here."

    "Just how tired are you both of me?" Zhai Kuijun didn''t ask this question out loud but only sighed to himself helplessly before leaving his old parents in their own world. It was not like he wanted to stay around his parents who were still stuck to each other''s hips at this age.

    In fact, they were the reason he always had always looked forward to finding a loving partner to spend his life with. In his opinion, no matter how sticky and sweet his parents were, he had set them as his ideal couple. Only after marriage did he realize, that not everyone was as lucky as they were to find each other.

    At least, he had the worst luck in this department. Looking at his friend, Xiang Hulin, he used tofort himself that he wasn''t the only one who had his marriage in shambles. But he soon realized that he was still the one losing. Because even when it came to Xiang Hulin and his wife, at least, they both loved each other a lot.

    As for his wife, he wasn''t even sure if she ever even liked him. Why was he blind to even believe that she liked him? Oh no, he was really blind to even fall for her in the first ce. Exactly what did he like about her? Her gentleness? But he couldn''t even remember if she had ever been gentle towards him since they got married.

    What tragic love life he had. It wasn''t a marriage but a tragedy! One that he didn''t wish to repeat at all.

 Chapter 627 Love?

    <h4>Chapter 627 Love?</h4>

    When Zhai Yanjun came home, he was humming a tune unfamiliar to everyone in this family. It was actually a song from Fantasy! His favorite group! Of course, it was his favorite, his brother was a part of it. He had been often listening to their songs whenever he was tired.

    "Oh, you''re home!"

    Zhai Yanjun looked at his father who appeared from the kitchen wearing an apron around his waist and raised his brows at him.

    "Dad?" Zhai Yanjun called out in surprise.

    "Yeah, it''s me! Why? Did you already forget your father''s face?" asked Zhai Kuijun, a little unhappily.

    Zhai Yanjun shrugged, "I remember you all too well."

    "Oh, our Junjun is home," Grandmother Zhai came from inside to meet her grandson and hugged him. "Oh, my poor grandson has gotten so thin again."

    Zhai Yanjun frowned, "I really didn''t." But he knew it was useless. ording to his Grandmother, he was always thin. He couldn''t do anything about it.

    "You should go and freshen up said," Grandmother Zhai. "Your dad is almost done with cooking. The dinner will be served soon."

    Zhai Yanjun again looked at his father, "You cooked? Are you sure I''ll be able to eat it?"

    Zhai Kuijun red at him, "You''ll see!"

    Zhai Yanjun smiled at his father in a good manner before rushing upstairs to freshen up a little since he came right from the training ground. He was still wearing his dusty uniform, damp with sweat.

    Zhai Kuijun poked his mother''s arm and asked, "Why don''t you ask him why he is so happytely? Thest time I called him, he sounded happy. Even now, he seems to be in a good mood. What has gotten into him?"

    "I don''t care what happened," was Grandmother Zhai''s response. "I''m just happy to see my grandson finally opening up a little. He looks happy and lively and that''s all that matters to me. As for how it happened, I don''t care."

    Zhai Kuijun was annoyed. Howe his mother would question him everything even when he was this old but won''t even ask a simple question to her dear grandson? Wasn''t it unfair? But he should be used to it by now? Why was he even thinking about it?

    "So, you don''t want to know if he is in love or not?" asked Zhai Kuijun. "But that''s okay. Even if he is turning thirty, there is no need for us to rush him into getting married or anything."

    Grandmother Zhai''s expressions changed once he heard that and Zhai Kuijun could see it, he smiled sneakily to himself. So what if he schemed against his own son? It was super fun! He only realized it just now!

    The whole family gathered at the dinner table.

    Zhai Yanjun served himself some vegetables when he asked his father, "Dad, what''s the asion?"

    "Oh, we are celebrating," answered Zhai Kuijun.

    "What are we celebrating?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "My freedom!"

    Zhai Yanjun stared at his father long and hard before raising his brow, "You''re acting as if you got divorced?" Seeing the smirk ying on his father''s lips, Zhai Yanjun ced his chopsticks down and asked again, "Really?"

    "Really," answered Zhai Kuijun with a big smile.

    "No way," Zhai Yanjun couldn''t believe it. How could he believe it? He knew how much that woman was resisting the divorce. She neither wanted to stay with his father nor did she want to let go. He always wanted to ask her exactly why was she torturing everyone by dragging this marriage for so long. But at the end of the day, she was his mother and he wasn''t allowed to ask her these questions.

    Being unfilial wasn''t something his grandparents taught him. He could hate her but he could do nothing about it either.

    "Kuijun," Grandmother Zhai also ced her chopsticks down. Although she didn''t like that daughter-inw of hers, divorce was a big matter. "You really got divorced?"

    "Yes," answered Zhai Kuijun honestly while eating without any care.

    "You..."

    Before Grandmother Zhai could say anything, Grandfather Zhai stopped her, "That''s enough. He is old enough to know what he is doing. You don''t have to say anything." Grandmother Zhai sighed silently and dropped her head to look at the bowl of rice in front of her. She was feeling reallyplicated right now.

    "Dad, how did this happen?" asked Zhai Yanjun curiously. "I thought she wanted to drag it for good?"

    "Yes, she did," said Zhai Kuijun. "She was quite resistant to divorce but I finally decided to y the trump card."

    "You used Grandfather Yue?" asked Zhai Yanjun in surprise. He knew how much his father respected his inws. The only reason he had dragged this marriage for so long was to give face to his inws. Who knew now he''d end up using the same inws?

    "Well, it''s not my fault," said Zhai Kuijun. "I asked her nicely to sign the divorce papers. She just had to choose the hard way."

    Zhai Yanjun patted his father''s shoulder, "I''m so happy for you."

    "Jun!"

    Zhai Yanjun looked up at his grandmother who looked displeased.

    "Is that something you should say? She is your mother?"

    "I didn''t say she isn''t," replied Zhai Yanjun. "But even if she is my mother, no one wanted this divorce to happen as much as I did. And if my dad had taken this step years ago, I wouldn''t have turned out like I did!"

    Grandmother Zhai wanted to reprimand him but couldn''t bring herself to do so. Because no matter what she said would be futile. She knew very well how her grandson was.

    Love?

    He didn''t have any of that for any of them. Even for his grandparents, he only felt respect and responsibility. Nothing more. There were no such feelings like a love of a child towards his family in him. Especially after joining the army, he grew even more distant from every one of them. Even though he wasn''t negligent towards them and checked up on them regrly, it was just a sense of responsibility and nothing more than that.

 Chapter 628 Need Blessings

    <h4>Chapter 628 Need Blessings</h4>

    The biggest reason why Zhai Yanjun and Xiang Wai didn''t work out was the fact that at the end of the day, they both didn''t know how to love. Xiang Wai craved attention and love since her childhood. Even if she didn''t remember her early childhood, her brain subconsciously looked for the love and attention that she received living in the Xiang family. And when she couldn''t find it, it actually became her obsession.

    As for Zhai Yanjun, he had long forgotten what love even felt like. His traumatic childhood made him withdrawn and quiet. And no desire was actually left inside of him. That was why he slowly even drifted away from Shui Xian''s life. Zhai Yanjun was someone who felt like his existence didn''t really matter at all.

    When he was young, he heard his father telling him how much he loved his mother. But ironically, all Zhai Yanjun remembered was that whenever his parents were in the same room, they''d always have a fight. His mom''s yelling and breaking things here and there always made him scared. And the tragedy was that his mother was supposed to make him feel protected and yet, she was the one whom he was scared of the most.

    He was really scared of her.

    This fear was deep-rooted in his mind, heart, and body. In fact, he used to tremble whenever he used to stand before his mother. That''s why he chose to join the army. He wanted to grow out of that fear. It wasn''t easy though. But Xiang Wai made it possible for him. She became that person whom he could depend on.

    However, both of these people didn''t know anything about love. They both had wrong expectations from this rtionship from the very beginning. Their rtionship didn''t even begin on the right foot, how was it supposed to end well?

    Seeing his son eating in silence, Zhai Kuijun suddenly asked, "Have you talked to that friend of yourstely?"

    "Which friend?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "Yue Fai," said Zhai Kuijun.

    Zhai Yanjun frowned when he heard his father mentioning Hyson out of nowhere. It made him feel quite vignt as well without him realizing it. "Even if I did, why are you asking about it?"

    Zhai Kuijun found his son''s reaction a bit strange but he didn''t dwell over it and said, "The next time you meet him, take him out for a meal or something."

    "Why?" Zhai Yanjun asked his father. Even if he wanted to take Hyson out for a meal, what does that have to do with his father? He had never seen his father this interested in any of his friends before. Not like he had plenty of friends but still, his father never even mentioned Shui Xian so casually. So, he had to ask to figure out what was up with his father.

    "He saved your father''s life," said Zhai Kuijun.

    "Huh?" Zhai Yanjun looked confused.

    Zhai Kuijun didn''t exin, just said, "Just do it. Is it necessary to ask so much? Just know that he helped your father. Even though he wasn''t obliged to do so." He took a pause as his expressions gentled, "He is a nice guy."

    Zhai Yanjun''s lips twitched hearing that nice guyment. But he couldn''t bring himself to shake his head and could only agree, "Yes, he is great!"

    "Such high evaluation?" Zhai Kuijun raised his brow at his son. "Is everything okay, soldier? I feel like you think very highly of this friend of yours. Even though since the time you joined the army, you have be even more critical of people than you were before."

    Zhai Yanjun shrugged, "He deserves this high evaluation. Although he is quite petty at times, he is still cute. And it''s so fun to tease him. He knows I''m teasing him but he still couldn''t stop himself from arguing."

    Seeing himughing like this, everyone at the table was just staring at him. This was something new for everyone there. He looked not just happy but yful and carefree. And it was a fact that Zhai Yanjun had never been yful or carefree in life.

    "No wonder Tianyu says his little prince is a charmer,"mented Grandfather Zhai as he stared at his grandson. "That little guy really has some magic."

    Zhai Yanjun didn''t understand why his grandfather said it but he didn''t care either. He was happy to hear peopleplimenting his cousin brother.

    "Weimin is living with his grandfather?" asked Grandmother Zhai.

    "Yes," answered Zhai Yanjun. "Even Wai is there. And I think it''s better for them to stay with their grandfather. They both need to know what a family feels like."

    "I agree," said Zhai Kuijun. "Last time I talked with Hulin, he was over the moon. Just the fact that his children were all together got him so excited that I was wondering what would happen if he met his youngest daughter."

    "You''re talking about Raelle?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    Zhai Kuijun nodded his head.

    "I can only say, bless General''s soul," said Zhai Yanjun.

    "What are you talking about?"

    Zhai Yanjun looked at his father, "Dad, your friend would need more blessings if he wants to meet Raelle. Because it''s not easy to have a conversation with her."

    "She isn''t that bad,"mented Zhai Kuijun.

    Zhai Yanjun almost spurted out the water from his mouth. "Not that bad? Okay, I agree that I like my Saozi a lot but even I''d say she isn''t easy. It took me a while to get used to her personality. She is like fireworks. Beautiful but dangerous at the same time."

    "You have gotten close to her?"

    Zhai Yanjun nodded, "Actually, I realized that it isn''t that difficult to get close to her. As long as you''re not trying to push your luck with her. But she can be a real piece of work if you''re trying to push your way into her life." He didn''t continue to add anything else. Because he knew whatever he said won''t really be enough to do justice to what Raelle was.

    He had gotten pretty used to her but that didn''t mean it was easy to do so.

 Chapter 629 Bed Warmer

    <h4>Chapter 629 Bed Warmer</h4>

    "B¨¤, who are these people?" Raelle had juste back from work when she found strangers sitting in the living room with Shui Koshing.

    "Oh, daughter-inw, you''re back!" Shui Koshing weed her home with a big smile. "It''s good that you''re back. We were waiting for you."

    "For me?" asked Raelle.

    "Yes," answered Shui Koshing and beckoned her toe close. "This is Miss Beatrice. She is an internationally renowned designer. I heard she was holding a fashion show this weekend in the Capital and I just had to invite her here to meet you."

    "Why?" Raelle wasn''t really following this conversation. She couldn''t understand what did this have to do with her. And why did her father-inw call this designer here for her?

    "Aiyo, aren''t you attending that state banquet tomorrow?" questioned Shui Koshing.

    "It''s not a state banquet," Raelle cleared it up. From that one question, she already understood where this conversation was going.

    "It''s the same thing," emphasized Shui Koshing. In fact, when Raelle first told him that a minister invited her to a dinner party, he didn''t think much about it. It was only dayster when he learned from his circle what kind of a dinner party it was that he wanted to shake his daughter-inw and ask her, why she was so casual about it?

    Did she think just any businessman was allowed to enter that dinner party? Because the answer was, no!

    "Anyway, for an important event, we need an extra special dress," said Shui Koshing. "Miss Beatrice will help you with that."

    Raelle wanted to tell him that all her designer dresses were already customized from different parts of the world. Her Yanyan loved to pick thetest hout¨¦ couture for her from every new collection. She never even got to wear all those gowns.

    But considering how her father-inw had taken the initiative and looked so excited as well. She couldn''t refuse him. At the end of the day, she was really a softie in front of people like her father-inw who genuinely cared about her. Since she couldn''t say no, it was better to go along with it.

    It was just a adding a new dress into her collection. No biggie!

    "Hello, Miss Beatrice!" Raelle greeted the designer politely. "Sorry to trouble you like this."

    Beatrice saved her hands saying, "There is no trouble. It''s my honor to meet President Raelle in person. Usually, someone else orders your gowns. So, I never got the chance to see you in person."

    Indeed, this designer was also in the list that Mu Chenyan kept with her and picked dresses like cabbages.

    "I brought some dresses with me which I think would be perfect for you," told Beatrice and asked her assistants to show the dresses to Raelle.

    Meanwhile, Shui Xian had been upstairs in his study. He came back earlier than Raelle today and he was surprised when he noticed that his wife wasn''t back till now. Usually, she''d tell him if she was runningte. But now that he texted her, she didn''t get back to him. What''s going on? He wondered to himself.

    After he was done with the calls that kept him busy since the time he came back home, he went downstairs. When he came down, Miss Beatrice was leaving with a happy smile on her face along with her assistants. Shui Xian raised his brow seeing this stranger and then he looked at his wife and his father.

    And here he was thinking that his wife hadn''te back. In fact, she was back but she just hadn''t went upstairs to look for him. He went to stand beside her and asked, "When did youe back?"

    "It''s been a while," answered Raelle. "B¨¤ asked me to choose a gown to wear tomorrow." She took a pause and added, "Maybe we should pick a new suit for you as well."

    Shui Xian''s face fell when he heard that, "There is no need for that."

    "Why?" she asked.

    Shui Xian tucked her hair behind her hair gently as he told her, "I''m afraid I won''t be able to join you tomorrow." Raelle looked at his face as he answered with his dimmed eyes looking at her face, "There is an issue at one of the subsidiaries in Huangzhou and I have to go over there tomorrow."

    Raelle thought about it and nodded in understanding, "So, when will you be back?"

    Shui Xian pinched her nose, "Won''t ask me to stay but you want to know when I''ll be back?"

    "You know I won''t stop you," she reminded him.

    "Yes, I do," he sighed. How can he not know that? His wife didn''t like throwing tantrums and she wasn''t as clingy as he was. So, how can she ask him to stay? But it was already good enough that she wanted to know when he''d be back. That meant she''d be waiting for him. "Don''t worry. I''ll be back soon."

    "You have to borate that ''soon''," Raelle pointed out to him.

    "Soon means, it can be a day or it can take two days. But maximum two days. My personal wish is toe back tomorrow at thetest. Even if everything is done at midnight, I''ll being back right then and there. And don''t tell me I can take my time."

    "I wasn''t going to," she said. She hugged his waist making him feel a bit surprised as she ced her chin on his chest and looked up at him, "Youe back soon. I''ll wait for you."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips but couldn''t suppress his smile at all. He didn''t want to hide it either. He just realized that this was the best form of clinginess he could get from her. And he was so happy to see it. Shui Xian kissed her forehead and ced his chin on her head saying, "Of course, I''lle back soon. Who wants to sleep on a cold bed? I''d rathere back and hug my wife to sleep."

    "So what am I? A wife or a bed warmer?" she asked making him speechless.

    He rubbed her head, "You''re both!"

 Chapter 630 Overripe

    <h4>Chapter 630 Overripe</h4>

    Originally, Cloe didn''t want toe to this dinner party with Raelle, for no other reason than the fact that she too wanted to spend more time with her boyfriend. It was a bit embarrassing buttely, she had been really acting like a sticky girlfriend. But the good thing was that her boyfriend was equally sticky so it mellowed out her embarrassment.

    It was actually Cui Xukun who asked her to go with Raelle to this banquet and even gave multiple reasons. For instance, how important this opportunity was. Although Raelle had significant authority in the business world whether it was on international grounds or on the soil of this country, it still didn''t hurt to have more connections. Especially with the circle of people who were invited to this banquet.

    And Cloe being Raelle''s closest person had to bask in this light as well.

    However, when she looked at her boss, her face twitched uncontrobly. It couldn''t be helped, she was in awe looking at her boss dressed in that gorgeous gown.

    "What are you staring at?" asked Raelle.

    "Chief, what kind of a concept are you ying tonight?" Cloe couldn''t help asking as she looked at Raelle from the top of her head to the tip of her stilettoes.

    "Concept?" Raelle looked down at her white formal gown and told her, "The concept is an ethereal angel."

    Cloe pursed her lips but in the end, sheughed out loud. "Chief, where does this self-confidencees from?" She just had to ask that question. No doubt that her boss was a beauty. And earth-shattering beauty at that too. No matter what she wore, it looked good on her.

    Tonight as well, there was no doubt that she was looking gorgeous as always. However, seeing Raelle Xiang in white was something rare. This wasn''t her color. It looked good on her, but it really didn''t do justice to her kind of dominant beauty.

    To Shui Xian, Raelle was like a poppy flower. Seductive and intoxicating like drugs. But to Cloe, she was more like a red rose, the beauty was right there but there were thorns as well. So, seeing Raelle dressed up like a white lily, she couldn''t describe her feelings in words.

    But even in white, Raelle didn''t really look like an angel as she said. Even if she did, it''d be better to call her a subus. Because she was d in that sexy white halter neck mermaid gown. There was even a golden belt around her waist adding another charm to it.

    "It''s a shame that my self-confidence didn''t manage to rub off on you after all these years," was Raelle''s remark.

    Cloe didn''t even take that jibe to her heart. "But Chief, are you sure you can pull off the role of an angel tonight? Trust me, red suits you better." After all, devils are always dressed in red as a warning sign. What will I do if people found you approachable in white? Wouldn''t that be the start of a bloodbath?

    Of course, she chose to keep her thoughts to herself. She still valued her life a lot more than it seemed.

    Raelle touched the diamond bracelet on her wrist while she said, "B¨¤ thought I should wear white since he hasn''t seen me in white. Also, he said it''ll give people a better impression."

    It finally dawned on Cloe why her boss chose to wear this white dress out of nowhere. It was because of her father-inw. Now, she understood it better.

    "But didn''t you say you won''t being?" asked Raelle to Cloe.

    Cloe cleared her throat before saying, "Well, I thought you''d be too lonely without me."

    "Oh?"

    Cloe felt like there was some unsaid pressure behind that simple ''oh'' that was pressing on her shoulders. Fuck it! Her boss was really too much. Did she have to bring it up? Wasn''t it well and good that she was already here? Why should they discuss it again?

    "And Kun said I should join you," she added under that pressure.

    "Oh, so you listen well to your boyfriend already?"

    Cloe stared at Raelle, "Chief, you also listen to your husband. I''m learning it all from you."

    "I have heard before that we learn things better that we are genuinely interested in. No wonder after all these years, you didn''t learn anything else from me but learned how to listen to your partner. Good for you."

    Cloe could feel the derision in those words but she just couldn''t argue. Ugh! So hateful!

    "Chief, before we enter, please rein in your temper," said Cloe.

    "Have I ever been temperamental?" was Raelle''s question. "Have you ever even seen me raising the pitch of my voice? I don''t think so. I''m a very well-behaved person."

    Cloeughed hollowly, "I wish I could believe that."

    Raelle knocked on Cloe''s head.

    "What was that?" asked Cloe pushing her hand away.

    "Oh, nothing," responded Raelle. "I was just checking if it''s riped already. But it seems, your brain is already overripe, it''s about time you throw it away."

    Cloe gaped at her in disbelief, "You! Do you have to do this?"

    "Who asked you to advise me to rein in my temper? I don''t like people telling me what to do and what not to do."

    "You don''t mind it when the person saying it is..."

    She didn''t get to finish because she realized she couldn''tpare herself with Raelle''s important people. She should just ept whatever position she had in her boss'' life. She was really courting her own misery by asking Raelle Xiang to behave.

    Sighing, she muttered, "I just don''t want you to offend anyone."

    Raelle looked at her intently before saying, "Do you think it''s my first time meeting such people? I know what to do and what not to do. It''s not that I can''t offend people here, it''s just that it''s not the ce for that. After all, someone invited me personally out of goodwill. I don''t p someone''s smiling face."

 Chapter 631 Moral Support

    <h4>Chapter 631 Moral Support</h4>

    Minister Chen had chosen to hold the banquet at his own home which was a courtyard-style ce. It was grand and gave a historical vibe adding majesty to the owner of the home.

    The main hall was filled with people from different walks of life. And each and every single person in the hall was standing at the top of his or her field. With polite smiles, everyone was greeting the people they were familiar with or trying to talk to people they wanted to make connections with.

    Mrs. Chen indeed loved the lively scenes a lot and she was really happy to have so many people gathered around for her birthday. She didn''t even know her husband had nned so much. But she was touched and very happy.

    Raelle and Cloe''s entrance seemed to have garnered some attention from the participants of this banquet. After all, among all these middle-aged and old people, these two were really young and stood out too much with their appearance. Raelle walked straight to Minister Chen and greeted him.

    Minister Chen smiled at her, "I''m very happy to see you here, President Raelle."

    Raelle wore her most beautiful smile as she said, "Since Minister Chen invited me, I had toe. Also, please call me Raelle. You''re an elder and it doesn''t seem right for you to keep calling me so formally when we aren''t even discussing business."

    Minister Chen''s smile became even more sincere as he said, "This is why I like you, child." He held the hand of his wife and introduced, "Meet my wife."

    "Hello, Mrs. Chen," said Raelle. She took a gift box from Cloe and offered it to her, "This is a small gift for you. I wish you health and prosperity."

    Mrs. Chen took the gift and couldn''t help smiling gently at the woman before her. In her view, this woman dressed in white was just too beautiful and she felt sofortable just looking at her smile. Who wouldn''t feel good about such a good-natured child? At least, she was floored.

    "Aiyah, child, you didn''t have to," said Mrs. Chen.

    Cloe also stepped up and greeted her, "This is a gift from me. I wish you happiness and beauty. May you keep blooming like a beautiful flower with each passing year and your love deepens like the depth of the east sea."

    Raelle paused and turned her head to look at Cloe, "I didn''t know you have a knack for ttery."

    Cloe''s smile stiffened, "Chief, this isn''t ttery. I''m sincerelyplimenting Mrs. Chen."

    "Oh, howe I never heard youplimenting me?"

    Cloe gave her a stinky eye, "You have anything I canpliment about?"

    Minister Chen and his wifeughed at these two who didn''t even care about where they were. It really made their old hearts feel happy seeing such lively youngsters. Especially since they were always surrounded by people''s fake ttery or their cautious acts around them. So, this was refreshing and quite enjoyable for both of them.

    "Chief, let''s stop here," said Cloe when she heard theughter. "We shouldn''t embarrass ourselves anymore."

    "What is an embarrassment?" questioned Raelle. "Can you eat it? Isn''t it good enough that our silly act made Mr. and Mrs. Chenugh so heartily?"

    Cloe wanted to shout at her boss right now, ''Who was using ttery now?!'' But deep down she knew that Raelle wasn''t ttering anyone. She never did and she never will. She must be genuinely finding thatughter likable and that''s why she said. And she couldn''tin about that. Even though Raelle didn''t smile herself, that didn''t mean she didn''t like it when people gave her a sincere smile.

    "We made you see a joke," said Cloe sheepishly.

    Mrs. Chen waved off her hand, "Not at all. You both are really cute. I have never seen a boss and employee like you two. It''s certainly a sight to remember."

    Cloe still smiled sheepishly while Raelle had no reaction to it all.

    "We should go over there," said Cloe to Raelle. "Mrs. Chen has to greet other guests as well."

    "Yes, yes, both of you make yourselffortable," said Mrs. Chen. "I''ll find you,dies,ter."

    Minister Chen looked at the bright smile on his wife''s face and looked at Raelle, "I think it was the right decision to invite you today."

    Raelle didn''t know why he said it but she didn''t care enough to find out either. She walked away from them with Cloe who kept looking around and kept introducing her to people while saying, "Didn''t I tell you, this is a grand event? Look, it''s like all the important people of the country have gathered here. Only a minority is from the business circle like us. So, it''s really an honor for us to be invited here."

    "Okay," was Raelle''s response. It was such a dry response that Cloe felt like banging her head against the wall.

    "Come on, let''s talk to others," said Cloe. "No, you don''t have to talk. I''ll do the talking but you have to stand beside me."

    "For what?" was Raelle''s question.

    Cloe thought about it before saying, "For moral support."

    Raelle stopped in her track and looked at Cloe, "You really need my moral support. Can you afford it?"

    "Chief, be serious!"

    "I always am."

    "No, I meant to be serious about making some connections. I can tell you, not just any Tom, Dick, and Harry can enter this banquet. We are lucky and we should take advantage of this."

    Raelle''s eyes swept over the crowd and locked on a few faces. She stared at these faces in concentration before turning Cloe''s face and pointing at those faces saying, "Let me show you how Tom, Dick, and Harry also joined the party."

    Cloe was taken aback by Raelle''s words but she didn''t think he was joking so she followed the direction she was pointing and looked carefully. When she noticed the three people she just called Tom, Dick, and Harry, Cloe didn''t know what to say.

 Chapter 632 Delicate Beauties

    <h4>Chapter 632 Delicate Beauties</h4>

    Cloe was lost in thought once she noticed the so-called ''Tom, Dick, and Harry.'' She didn''t know what to say. Her lips could only twitch.

    In the far corner of the hall, Cloe found Ruan Meilin hanging on the arm of a man who seemed to be from the city''s police station. Then she looked at the Mayor''s daughter with whom Raelle already had an agenda. Not only that, but the dear Mayor also received Raelle''s gift sent with love.

    Finally, Cloe zeroed in on the woman who just entered the hall. It was none other than Tang Hebe. She was someone Cloe wasn''t really familiar with at all.

    "What do you have to say now?" questioned Raelle. In fact, she was also wondering why all these people were gathered around her. She also heard what kind of a banquet it was and what kind of people were invited there. That''s why she didn''t think these three women had the status to enter this party on their own.

    She wasn''t looking down at them, it was merely a fact.

    Ruan Meilin''s status in society came from her association with the huge Shui Conglomerate where she worked. But even then, even Shui Xian wasn''t invited to this banquet. Why was she here?

    As for the Mayor''s daughter, she had nothing to add. She wouldn''t have even paid attention to someone like her if not for showing Cloe how wrong she was to say that not just anyone can enter this party?

    On the other hand, it was actually Tang Hebe whose presence got Raelle''s attention. For no other reason, but the fact that she had entered the party with Song Xin''ai. Oh, wasn''t that her mother? Why was sheing with Tang Hebe? How were these two rted exactly?

    "Chief, I understand Tom and Dick''s reference but who is this Harry you pointed at?"

    "Oh, you don''t even know anything about your boyfriend''s first love?" asked Raelle.

    Cloe''s face hardened, "She is Tang Hebe?"

    "Yes, she is," answered Raelle. "It seems your boyfriend did mention her."

    "Not really," said Cloe. "But he said a thing or two." And with that statement, she couldn''t help scrutinizing Tang Hebe from across the hall. Nothing could be done about this. She wanted to see what her boyfriend''s first love looked like. Well, she had to say the woman looked pretty, elegant, and quite delicate. The kind of beauty that would evoke one''s protective senses. "Why are such girls always so popr?"

    "Jealous?"

    Cloe didn''t realize that she asked that question out loud until Raelle asked her if she was jealous. Realizing her mistake, she smiled at Raelle, "How is that possible? Why would I be jealous of her? She looks like she might fall with just a gust of wind. What''s there to be jealous about? I don''t like delicate beauties." She took a pause and a light urge to gossip took route in her heart, "Chief, why do you think that Ruan Meilin is here? And how did shee here?"

    "Don''t know. Don''t care."

    Cloe looked at Raelle''s devil-may-care appearance and didn''t know what to say about it. In fact, she had a lot to say but when it all came to the tip of her tongue, it turned into gibberish.

    "But why do you look like you don''t like her?" asked Raelle.

    "Because I don''t," answered Cloe. "I don''t have to be a genius to know what she said to you the other day at Shui Xian''s office. So, I asked Ma Jin for details. And he told me everything. She is such a scheming white lotus. I hate it! How dare she tried to incite you? Who is she toe and talk like that to you?"

    Raelle was looking at Cloe nkly but Cloe felt like there was something behind that gaze. Was it amusement? How is that possible though?

    "Are you okay?" asked Raelle. "When did you be so protective of me?"

    Cloe sighed, "I have always been protective of you. I can curse you all I want in my head but I can''t take it when someone else does it. At the end of the day, I know what you are. And knowing you, I hate it that you don''t even feel offended when someone does such scheming against you. You might not be infuriated but I am!"

    Raelle suddenly raised her hand and patted her shoulder, "Calm down tiger! We don''t want a bloodbath here."

    Cloe exhaled a long and deep breath as she nodded, "You''re right. I won''t mess with the likes of her as long as she doesn''te to bark at my face."

    "I wonder who was the one advising me to rein in my temper earlier,"mented Raelle lightly.

    Cloe felt her face burning for the second time in the past ten minutes. The first time it was when she told Raelle confidently that not just anyone could enter the party and then Raelle picked out ''just anyone'' from the crowd for her. And now again, Raelle reminded her that she was making a fool of herself by losing her temper.

    Urgh! Why did she have a boss like that who had to prove herself right at every single turn?!

    Raelle took two sses from the tray of the waiter passing by and offered one to Cloe, "Have a drink and cool down. We aren''t here to fight."

    "You''re right," agreed Cloe and silently took a sip of the flute she held in her hand. However, her eyes were still on Ruan Meilin before they settled on Tang Hebe. She looked at the two back and forth and frowned to herself. "Chief..." She called out but received no answer.

    She turned around only to see Raelle busy in a conversation with some old people. Ah! Fantastic! It seemed her boss found herpany. She shook her head at that. But it was right, she was already familiar with how much the old people liked Raelle. Her fake smile was really appealing to those old people for some reason.

 Chapter 633 Impersonate

    <h4>Chapter 633 Impersonate</h4>

    When Cloe came to her side, Raelle introduced everyone to her. Cloe put on one of her best smiles as she greeted these big shots. Someone was the Dean of one of the top universities in the country, and someone was the director of the military research center. All in all, these people were high intellectuals.

    Cloe wasn''t even surprised at how smoothly Raelle''s conversation was going with these people. Even though Raelle only spoke a couple of times. As expected of her boss who treasured her words like she treasured her time.

    When the crowd around them dispersed, only then did Cloe heave a sigh and said, "Chief, you really know how to choose the people to mingle in."

    "It''s not me," replied Raelle. "They were the ones who called me."

    "Yes, yes, you''re just that awesome. It can''t be helped," said Cloe dispassionately. But suddenly, she got her energetic look back as she added, "Chief, I feel like I made a discovery."

    "Oh? With your brain?"

    "What is exactly wrong with my brain?" asked Cloe in displeasure.

    "Aren''t you the girl whom I heard singing, ''Jingle bell jingle bell, jingle all the way? Santa us is on his way, why don''t you stay?''"

    Cloe blushed in embarrassment when she heard that. She was so shocked to realize that whatever she was doing in her office on Christmas night was actually heard by her boss. But since Raelle hadn''t mentioned it before, she was blissfully oblivious to it all. Also, she so wished that Raelle would have at least hummed some tune and not just ndly read it like a story.

    Scratching the tip of her nose, she said, "Chief, we shouldn''t embarrass each other like this."

    "If I wanted to embarrass you, I''d have mentioned it before other people. Currently, only you and I are here," said Raelle matter-of-factly. "Also, if you''re embarrassed because I am here. Then you''re a littlete. I''m all too familiar with you by now."

    Cloe stared at Raelle for a minute in silence before saying, "Fair enough. And don''t distract me. I really made a discovery. A shocking discovery."

    "Spit it out then," said Raelle, definitely not looking like she was the least bit interested in whatever discovery she had made. After all, it didn''t really concern her at all.

    Cloe came close to Raelle and whispered, "Chief, look at Ruan Meilin and Tang Hebe."

    "You''re still paying attention to them?"

    "Chief, focus!"

    "Why should I?"

    "Because it''s important," insisted Cloe.

    Raelle swept her eyes around and finally settled on Ruan Meilin before she looked at Tang Hebe. She looked at them once again and then again.

    "You noticed it, right?" Cloe''s eyes were sparkling like she discovered a whole new world. "I''m sure you noticed it. You''re a lot more perceptive than I am. And if I can notice it with my pea brain, then it''s nothing much for you."

    "This..." Raelle definitely noticed what Cloe was trying to point at. Just because she wasn''t interested in these two women, that didn''t mean she was blind.

    Cloe giggled, "So you also agree that these two have some simrities?"

    "Yes," answered Raelle.

    "And not just their facial features, even their mannerism is very much alike," stated Cloe.

    Raelle stopped her before saying, "No. It''s not that their mannerism is alike. It''s more like one of them is trying to copy the other."

    Cloe had a look of realization as well. She once again looked at the two women and nodded her head in agreement. "Indeed."

    "Ruan Meilin is trying hard to act like Tang Hebe," said Raelle with certainty.

    "But it''s a shame that she can''t hide her vicious heart behind that gentle look," added Cloe. "No wonder I didn''t her at first sight." She took a pause and asked, "But why is she trying to impersonate someone else? Isn''t that tiring? I mean I get tired even when I have to smile when I don''t feel like doing so. But this woman is actually wearing the whole persona of someone else. How tiring would that be? Even her clothing and makeup sense looks simr to the other. Does she not have a choice of her own?"

    "How far do you think you can go for love?" asked Raelle in return instead of answering Cloe''s question.

    Cloe was stumped before it dawned on her, "You mean, all of this is for love?"

    "No, the right term would be an obsession," answered Raelle. "Yes, she is obsessed."

    "She is obsessed with your husband?" asked Cloe.

    "Now that''s a very interesting question, Cloe," said Raelle. "I also would like to know if she is obsessed with my husband or if she is obsessed with winning against Tang Hebe?"

    Cloe was startled by that question. It was getting more twisted. See, she said she was shallow. She couldn''t see all that with her pea brain but her boss saw it all in this short time. Even if she didn''t notice it, Raelle did notice how Ruan Meilin''s face contorted in an ugly expression once her eyes caught sight of Tang Hebe in the crowd.

    And she also didn''t miss the mocking smile tugging at Ruan Meilin''s lips. How pathetic!

    Raelle''s second impression of Ruan Meilin really made her question why this woman was even around her husband? And why did he allow someone like her to work in such an important position?

    Raelle had never been obsessed with anything or anyone in her life. And she had neverpared herself to anyone either. So, she didn''t know what was going through the brain of such a delusional person to actually waste her life trying to impersonate someone else. This only made her seem even more pathetic in Raelle''s eyes.

    But Raelle couldn''t even bring herself to associate the word pity with such a person anymore. After all, whatever hell Ruan Meilin was living in, she created it all by herself. No one could do anything about it.

 Chapter 634 Sold

    <h4>Chapter 634 Sold</h4>

    "Dr. Song, thank you for your help," stated Tang Hebe sincerely to Song Xin''ai.

    Song Xin''ai''s smile was just as distant as always but she still spoke gently, "It''s nothing much. I wanted to help you. Now, you can rest your worries."

    Tang Hebe''s smile was rxed as she answered, "Yes, now I can rx a little."

    "Then you can look around and meet some people," suggested Song Xin''ai. "Don''t continue to stick around with me."

    Tang Hebe nodded and decided to take this rare chance to meet these people. Each one was worthy of making a connection with. At least, she thought that way until her eyes settled on Ruan Meilin. She stiffened a little before she rxed.

    Turning her eyes away, she decided to just ignore that person. She had no n of going over to ask for trouble. If she knew Ruan Meilin would be here, she wouldn''t have even bothereding. No, she couldn''t do that. In the end, her son is more important than this maniptive and obsessive bitch!

    Why should she be afraid of her?

    Tang Hebe was minding her business when Ruan Meilin passed by her side. But seeing how Tang Hebe ignored her, she sneered and stopped in her track. "Oh, cousin!"

    Tang Hebe lifted her eyes to look at Ruan Meilin and smiled. Oh, it was a very cold smile but with her soft and gentle features, this cold smile only enhanced her beauty and made her look like an icy beauty. But she didn''t manage to look harmful at all. Even if she felt hatred and rage burning in her heart for Ruan Meilin, her bright eyes couldn''t depict her emotions at all.

    "Did you forget your manners after running away from home?" questioned Ruan Meilin trying to put up an elegant smile on her face. Oh, it''d be right to say that she wanted to look superior before Tang Hebe.

    "Oh no, I was running short of money so I sold my manners," was Tang Hebe''s reply that caught Ruan Meilin by surprise. In her memory, Tang Hebe was like a soft plushie. No matter how you squeeze her, she hardly would let out a peep.

    One of the things she hated about Tang Hebe was her manners. Every single person in her life reminded her of how good-natured Tang Hebe was. To everyone, Tang Hebe was a beautiful white rose. There was not even a single w in Tang Hebe. She was so sick of hearing it all her life.

    Ruan Meilin snickered, "Oh, so you finally decided to tear off the mask of being a good girl? Now, people can finally see you for who you are. An ugly little slut!"

    Tang Hebeughed out at her face, "Me? Ugly? Are you blind? What? Just because I left for a few years, you managed to gather your pathetic courage to stand beside me and call me ugly? If I remember correctly, you always used to keep your distance from me because people always mentioned how standing beside you, my beauty shines brighter."

    "You!" Ruan Meilin''s eyes stared daggers at Tang Hebe as her nails dug inside her palms. She couldn''t help it. She wanted to smash that smugness off of Tang Hebe''s face. And she truly thought, by now, Tang Hebe would have lost her so-called smugness but she was wrong. This woman only got worse in these years. She even dared to poke her at her sore spots?!

    Yes, it was true that since a young age, Ruan Meilin didn''t like standing beside Tang Hebe. They were of the same age. They were maternal cousins. Their mothers were sisters, it was inevitable that they''d run into each other at every turn of life. But who knew that this cousin of hers would outshine her everywhere. And Ruan Meilin always thought Tang Hebe did it intentionally.

    Tang Hebe actually was quite oblivious to the hatred and dissatisfaction in Ruan Meilin''s heart for years. If it wasn''t for Ruan Meilin''s mind games that broke the straw Tang Hebe had been holding on to for dear life to save her rtionship with Shui Xian, she''d have never understood what this woman really thought about her.

    Cousin?

    Hah!

    More like a mortal enemy!

    Tang Hebe always treated her like a sister since they were of the same age and Tang Hebe didn''t have a sister. Even when Tang Ping repeatedly warned her to be wary of Ruan Meilin, she didn''t listen. Ruan Meilin wanted to be like her, Tang Hebe would help her be like her without asking any questions.

    The clothes she bought for herself, she''d buy for Ruan Meilin as well. They always had the same hairstyles, makeup, and jewelry. If no one knew any better, they''d say these two were sisters with how simr they always acted. Also, because of their blood ties, there were some facial simrities as well.

    However, Tang Hebe was still called the smarter one, the brighter one, the sharper one, in fact, all in all, the original was still the original. Best at everything. And a copy like Ruan Meilin was just that, a copy!

    "Rx," said Tang Hebe in such a gentle tone that it would soothe anyone. "You wouldn''t wanna create trouble at such an event. I mean, your face is already ugly, how will you find a husband in the future if you ruined whatever reputation you have?"

    Ruan Meilin so wanted to p Tang Hebe right then and there but she knew she could do that. Even though she had long torn the mask of friendship she wore before Tang Hebe, she couldn''t let her destroy the image she had built with such difficulty.

    Taking a deep breath, she sneered, "At least, I have a reputation? What do you have now? The abandoned little wife of Master Xian. The title suits you very much."

    Tang Hebe''s jaw clenched when Ruan Meilin pulled Shui Xian into this discussion. After everything this woman did to break them up, she was still using his name to get back at her?

 Chapter 635 Get A Life

    <h4>Chapter 635 Get A Life</h4>

    Although Tang Hebe''s heart hurt because of those words, she didn''t want to appear weak. At least, not in front of Ruan Meilin. And she was not that weak anymore either.

    "Well, at least, I was his proper and legal wife," shemented as if casually reminding her of that indisputable fact. "What are you, Miss Ruan?" asked Tang Hebe provocatively.

    Ruan Meilin also didn''t back down as she shot back, "You''ve been long gone, Bebe. So, you must have not heard that I am very important to Shui Xian now. He even helped me in fighting for my inheritance rights."

    "Oh, important?" repeated Tang Hebe. "So, how would you define your rtionship? Are you his mistress now?"

    "Tang Hebe!" Ruan Meilin''s voice took a sharp turn.

    Tang Hebe smiled at her, "Come on, did I say anything wrong? You definitely aren''t his lover. So, I can only call you a mistress but that is also not possible. Shui Xian never liked dirty things. He had always been a proper man and a very loyal one at that too. You can only be his mistress only in your crazy head." She lowered her voice and added, "And don''t go around saying that you have a rtionship with Shui Xian. He has a wife now. And she isn''t a very nice person. You wouldn''t wanna mess with her."

    "That Raelle Xiang is nothing," argued Ruan Meilin hatefully. "Just like you, she is also a fool, I can control. Shui Xian will always be mine."

    Tang Hebe suddenly felt pity for this cousin of hers, "Delusional!" she muttered before rolling her eyes and saying, "Meilin, Meilin, Meilin! How should I wake you up? You said the same thing to me when I signed the divorce papers with Shui Xian that Shui Xian was always yours and I got between you two. Once I''m gone, he''ll be yours again. But what happened? I was gone for years and did you manage to get him? No! He married someone else! He married someone exceptional!"

    "Exceptional? What does that Raelle Xiang have except for her family power and wealth?" retorted Ruan Meilin.

    "At least, she has power and wealth," was Tang Hebe''s response. "What do you have?" Ruan Meilin red at her which Tang Hebe naturally ignored and continued, "In fact, you have nothing. No power, no money, and no beauty! In fact, your whole existence is a copy of mine. What exactly do you have of yours at this point? Oh, I think I know. You have your delusions!"

    "You''re feeling quite conceited,"mented Ruan Meilin gnashing her teeth in anger. "But don''t forget, he isn''t yours as well. And you can''tpete with that Raelle Xiang either."

    "Do I look that bored in life?" asked Tang Hebe. "Why would I go andpete with Raelle Xiang for no reason? What does she have to do with me?"

    "What? Already lost before starting the fight with your love rival?"

    Tang Hebe rolled her eyes again, "Meilin, use your brain for once. I have no love rival at all."

    "Oh, you think Shui Xian will be yours just because you came back? All his past feelings will be awoken once he looked at you? Are you that self-confident or in crazy?"

    Tang Hebe stared at Ruan Meilin as she thought, ''Am I crazy? I still might lose in front of you when ites to craziness. Your condition has worsened in all these years. Tsk!''

    "Is your world so small?" asked Tang Hebe. "Why is everything about Shui Xian? Okay, he might be everything to you but believe me, my cousin, people have other important things in life. A man is not everything. Yes, I loved that man very much. And I do love him but that does not mean he is my everything. Especially when he is already married and happy. Raelle and I have no reason topete at all. I and Xian got divorced willingly. I''d be a fool toe and ask him to take me back."

    "You''re still looking down on me," retorted Ruan Meilin. "Believe it or not, you''re nothing in front of me now. You don''t even have the Tang family behind you to save you."

    "In these years, I have learned a very important lesson," said Tang Hebe calmly, not minding her words at all. "If you lean on a mountain, the mountain will crash. If you lean on a tree, it can fall down. So, one should always learn to stand on their own two feet. Because only then no one can tear you down. I''m alone enough to support myself. Thank you very much but I''m more than happy to have nothing to do with the Tang family anymore."

    Without waiting for Ruan Meilin to continue her nonsense, Tang Hebe decided to slip away because she was tired already. It was exhausting to talk to Ruan Meilin.

    "Meilin, just a piece of advice for you," said Tang Hebe before leaving. "Learn to love yourself. You''ve been crying for years that no one loves you but I have never seen you loving yourself either." She patted her shoulder in encouragement, "And stop thinking about Shui Xian. Trust me, he isn''t the center of gravity. Get a life!"

    And with that, she was gone leaving a frustrated and raging Ruan Meilin behind. Not like Tang Hebe cared about her mood at all. She didn''t. Not at all.

    For the first time in years, she had alsoe to question whether Ruan Meilin was really obsessed with Shui Xian or was she just obsessed with her? And although it crept her a little, she couldn''t deny that it seemed that Ruan Meilin''s obsessiony with Tang Hebe. Because from a young age, Ruan Meilin always wanted what was hers.

    So, how was it possible that she''d fall for the same guy as her? No, she didn''t fall for him. He became her obsession. She just wanted to snatch him from Tang Hebe and for once wanted to win against Tang Hebe. However, Shui Xian never gave her that chance at all.

 Chapter 636 Sensational

    <h4>Chapter 636 Sensational</h4>

    Ruan Meilin''s eyes were red as she looked at Tang Hebe swaggering away from her. She hated it. She hated it so much that she wanted to kill her! Why does she always have to act so high and mighty in front of her? Why was she always acting like a superior? Even now?

    She believed Tang Hebe had nothing now. Nothing at all! She was no longer a part of the Tang family. She was already a divorced woman with a child in tow. And no one even knew whose wild child it was. Even if she used that information to stimte Shui Xian, deep down, she knew that child wasn''t Shui Xian''s at all.

    If it was true, Tang Hebe would have been able to win against everything that forced her and broke her to the point that she decided to hurt Shui Xian to his limits before getting a divorce.

    Ruan Meilin wasn''t willing to ept that Tang Hebe was still considered better than her! She wanted to scream and shout to tell everyone what kind of a dirty creature this woman was!

    But she still remembered where she was and could only force her anger to die down. She stomped her foot and walked back to the person who apanied her.

    After both of thesedies left, from behind the table, a slender figure stood up while holding a te of pastries in her hand. With her eyes wide open, Cloe stared at the backs of Ruan Meilin and Tang Hebe.

    "Wow!" was the only thing she could utter. And the way she looked at Tang Hebe actually changed. Once again, she was reminded of how Raelle was right. One should never judge a person so soon. Her perception of Tang Hebe totally changed once she listened to the earlier fiasco.

    She thought this Tang Hebe was a white lotus. Well, true, she was a white lotus. And she didn''t mean to insult her by calling her a white lotus at all. She meant it literally. Tang Hebe looked graceful, kind, elegant, and soft beauty. However, this beauty had a sharp tongue and a head on her neck! Can you believe it? Her brain actually worked!!

    You might wonder why she was eximing in surprise but it was actually not that surprising. When putting Ruan Meilin and Tang Hebe side by side, Cloe had to say that one of them had a brain and the other one lost even herself somewhere along the way.

    This is something she couldn''t keep to herself...

    "Chief!" she looked around and found Raelle in the crowd before running off to her side. "Chief, I have sensational news!"

    Raelle put her clutch on Cloe''s shoulder and pressed it down, "You stop being sensational yourself."

    Cloe wanted to retort when she heard someone chuckling and turned to look at two elders standing there. Cloe blushed when she realized what she was looking like right now. She was no better than an exciting teenager tonight. Where was her usual mature and professional aura? Tonight, she was really not acting like herself.

    "Granduncle, Grandaunt, I let you see a joke," said Raelle. "Please, forgive my assistant. She gets a little too excited."

    Cloe smiled sheepishly at them, "I''m sorry! I just had a little too much sugar in my system today."

    "That''s why she is on a sugar roll," added Raelle.

    "Aiyo, you young people should be lively," said Grandma Zhai. "In fact, Raelle, you should also be a little lively."

    "Grandaunt, you don''t like me?"

    Grandma Zhai was stumped. She really didn''t know how she came to that conclusion.

    "Don''t listen to your grandaunt," added Grandpa Zhai. "She is getting old. You''re the pride of Xiang Tianyu. How can anything be wrong with you? And who dares to not like you? Don''t overthink at all."

    Cloe''s lips twitched as she wondered, ''When did her boss overthink? She was merely being herself and actually managed to prove that she was fine the way she was. No, she was just perfect!''

    "Okay, you should listen to your assistant," said Grandpa Zhai. "We have some old friends to meet. And let your grandfather know, I''lle to see him in a few days."

    "I''ll tell Opa," answered Raelle. "Don''t worry, Grandpa Zhai and Grandma Zhai. I''ll see you both around."

    Only after they left, did Raelle face Cloe, "I have a question for you, Cloe."

    "Yes." Cloe stood at attention as if she was getting lectured by her teacher right now and she didn''t dare let out a peep.

    "You''ve never been into gossip so much," stated Raelle. "Then what is up with you tonight? Why are you jumping around looking for trouble?"

    Cloe scrunched up her nose feeling aggrieved, "Chief, it''s not my fault. It was a boring party. I need to look for some entertainment. But this time, it''s not my fault at all. I was just eating my pastries when suddenly one of my rings got tangled up with my dress. While trying to loosen it, my ring fell down. I just crouched down to find it. Who knew before I could find the ring, I actually encountered the showdown between Tom and Harry." She looked excited with her eyes sparkling as she spoke thest sentence. But suddenly fell into deep thought, "Or was it, Dick and Harry? Which order was it?"

    "You mean Ruan Meilin and Tang Hebe."

    Cloe pped her hands and nodded her head like a chicken pecking on rice, "Those are the ones! As expected of my Chief, I don''t even have to say it and you know already."

    "There is no need to tter me," was Raelle''s response. "I already saw Ruan Meilin walking over to Tang Hebe''s side. And if I''m not wrong, they both are rted."

    "Chief, they are cousins!" answered Cloe. "You should have been there! You would have really appreciated Tang Hebe. She has got a good brain." She was still appreciating whatever Tang Hebe did earlier and she felt like her boss would really feel the same way.

 Chapter 637 A Better Job

    <h4>Chapter 637 A Better Job</h4>

    Raelle was actually thinking about why she even bothered bringing Cloe with her. Clearly, this woman''s head was not in ce at all. However, she still had to say, "Pay attention to important things. Stop focusing on gossip. They both have nothing to do with us."

    "Aiyo, Chief! One of them wants to steal your husband!" said Cloe. She looked enraged as she added, "And she even used bad words for you. I can''t take it lying down. I so wanted to stand up and break the te on her head. Who does she think she is? How dare she tried to fight with you for something that is obviously yours?"

    "First of all, Xian is my husband. Not a thing or a field that she can take from me. And even if he was a field, I''m still thendy. That field belongs to me and only I get to plow it."

    Cloe spurted when she heard that.

    "What? Did I say something wrong?"

    Cloe stared at Raelle''s face and couldn''t say whether there was something wrong with what she said or not. But it definitely sounded suggestive in her dirty mind even though she believed that it was meant to bepletely innocent in Raelle''s mind. Yes! How can her Chief have such dirty thoughts? No, that''s definitely her!

    Raelle didn''t wait for her answer as she added, "Secondly, do you think that Ruan Meilin can be my rival?"

    "Does she deserves that? She doesn''t even have what it takes to stand beside you. How can she be your rival?" Cloe didn''t hold back her thoughts or words at all. It could be seen how obviously disgusted she was by that woman already. "But Chief, how did you know I was talking about Ruan Meilin?"

    Cloe was baffled as she realized that she didn''t mention which one was trying to snatch her husband but Raelle already knew. After all, if it was her, she''d have locked on Tang Hebe as the first candidate.

    "Because Tang Hebe has moved on," was Raelle''s answer.

    "How are you so certain? She said it herself that she is still in love with Shui Xian," Cloe told Raelle honestly. However, she obviously omitted what Tang Hebe added after that sentence.

    "Yes, she is," said Raelle. "However, her goal of life has changed."

    Cloe was gaping at Raelle, "Chief, just how the hell do you even know all this?"

    "I had a brief discussion with her," was the only exnation she gave to Cloe. But this much was enough as a reminder to Cloe that she should never doubt Raelle''s ability to see through people.

    ....

    Song Xin''ai was tired of greeting people and went to look for a resting area. She had just stepped in and only found one other person sitting inside the resting room. As her eyes locked on the person who was already there, she paused in her steps.

    Xiang Hulin was holding a cigarette in between his fingers but he hadn''t lit it up. He continued to just stare at it while rubbing his temples with his other hand.

    "Is it the headache again?"

    Xiang Hulin looked up and found his ex-wife standing not far from him. He wasn''t even surprised to see her here. She was more than qualified to be invited to this ce on her own merit. And adding on the fact that she was friends with Mrs. Chen, it was even more certain that he''d be seeing her here. So, he was truly not surprised to see her.

    "Just the usual," he answered calmly. "Nothing I can''t handle."

    "Of course, you can," she said in a strange tone. "You''ve always been strong. You can obviously handle everything."

    "I don''t know about everything but I''ve learned to handle pain very well," was his response. There was an inexplicable emotion in the depth of his eyes when he said that but his face remained impassive.

    "Howe you''re here?" she asked.

    "Committee meeting," he answered. "And since I''m already in the city for that meeting, I have to attend this dinner. If not anything else, I have to give Minister Chen some face."

    "Oh... I thought you came to see your father," she said in a soft voice.

    Xiang Hulin crushed the cigarette in his hand when he heard that. "Since I''m here, I''ll definitely go to see him."

    "Is he still not talking to you?"

    "It doesn''t matter. He is my father. I''ll continue to try no matter how many times he shuns me."

    Song Xin''ai couldn''t bring herself to say anything else regarding this topic. She often had nothing to say to him when it came to the topic of their families. There was nothing to talk about her family and it was painful to talk about his. Either way, it was better to avoid this topic altogether.

    "Did you already know?" she asked.

    "About what?"

    "About Raelle and her boyfriend?"

    Xiang Hulin stared at her, "Are you sure you want to talk about her?"

    Song Xin''ai bit her lip but didn''t say anything in response.

    "But I''ll still let you know, she doesn''t have a boyfriend. That''s her husband. She is already married."

    "Huh?" Song Xin''ai was surprised to hear that information.

    "Why are you surprised? Just because Weimin and Wai hate marriage doesn''t mean she is the same as well. In a way, we are the reason why Weimin and Wai are single at this age. As for Raelle, she is raised by my father and my sister. And I believe Chenchen has done the best job in raising her." He took a pause and added softly, "At least, she has done a much better job than both of usbined."

    Song Xin''ai wanted to say something but couldn''t bring herself to do so. Because she knew she couldn''t argue with that statement. Even if she didn''t meet Raelle, she was certain that Mu Chenyan must have done a better job at raising her daughter than she could have.

 Chapter 638 Disturb Her

    <h4>Chapter 638 Disturb Her</h4>

    Who would have thought that the daughter they were just talking about would suddenly appear in the resting room with Mrs. Chen?

    "Here, Raelle, you can sit down here," said Mrs. Chen. "I''ll send something for you to drink."

    "Can I get some juice please?" asked Raelle.

    The way she asked even if Mrs. Chen had the thought of refusing wouldn''t be able to do it. Not like she was nning on refusing her anyway. There was actually nothing really special about the way she asked for the juice. She just blinked her nk eyes at her that looked like bottomless pits and kept the tips of her lips curled up slightly and the tone of her voice was t but still pleasant to hear.

    "Of course," said Mrs. Chen. "By the way, are you okay here? How about I show you to a guest room and you lie down for a while?"

    Raelle shook her head, "There is no need for that. I just don''t like crowded ces, so that''s why I wanted toe here and sit down in silence for a while." Of course, she was only telling the half-truth right now. It was true that the crowd wasn''t sitting well with her, it was also the fact that because of the heavy perfumes and smell of alcohol around her, she felt quite nauseous.

    That''s why she told Cloe to stay at the party while she tried to look for a silent ce. Who knew she''ll run into Mrs. Chen kindly brought her to the resting room, personally.

    Mrs. Chen nodded in understanding, "I heard you don''t like interacting with people. It seems you really don''t like crowds."

    Raelle could only maintain her smile in response. She really wanted to tell her that one of the biggest reasons she avoided parties was the fact that they were loud and not just crowdy. And let''s not forget the fact that they were waste of time and quite troublesome!

    But she knew after all these years that if she said it straight to the face of the host of the party, it''d not end well. She should really avoid offending people for one night. She was a civilized person anyway. It''s not like she ever liked wasting her energy on arguments. She would rather use that energy to earn more money. Even though people have already started calling her money-hungry, it doesn''t matter. Who didn''t like more money? What''s better than money? Obviously, more money!

    As Mrs. Chen was about to leave, she looked at Song Xin''ai and Xiang Hulin, her smile broadened, "Xin''ai! What are you doing sitting here?" Then she looked at Xiang Hulin and added, "And General, is it okay for you to sit here?" Without waiting for their replies, she turned to Raelle and introduced her to both of them, "Anyway, meet Raelle Xiang. She is an exceptionaldy. An inspiration." Then she even introduced her good friends Song Xin''ai and Xiang Hulin to Raelle who had no visible change in her expressions.

    However, the same could not be said about her ''parents'' who couldn''t move their eyes away from her face at all.

    Raelle wasn''t superstitious but today, she really thought if something was wrong with her luck. Why were all these people running into her? Did she look like she wanted to entertain even one of these people? It started with her siblings, then her husband''s... Well, let''s just call her Tang Hebe since she had nothing to do with her husband anymore. Then there is even that psycho Ruan Meilin. And now, these two.

    Was her life in the wrong circle? Why was every single person she didn''t want to waste her energy on was appearing in her life one by one? And even they wanted to barge into her life, at least, do it all at once! Don''t waste so much of her time like taking your sweet timeing one by one!

    "Hello, Dr. Song! General Xiang!" Raelle didn''t mind greeting them as she''d do with anyone.

    She didn''t so much as frown when she faced her siblings for the first time, why would she be bothered by these two?

    Mrs. Chen obviously didn''t notice the change in the atmosphere, she advised her good friend Song Xin''ai, "Xin, you take care of her. I''ll send the juice for her in a minute."

    Raelle nonchntly went to sit down on the sofa whilementing, "This must be the first time in history that a child is being introduced to her parents for the first time like this. Yanyan is so right, life is surely an unexpected journey."

    Both Song Xin''ai and Xiang Hulin stiffened visibly when they heard her soft voice. She didn''t raise or lower her voice. So, they could easily hear her. And it wasn''t like she said it for them to hear as well. She just wanted to speak her mind and she did exactly that!

    Raelle licked her lips as she was feeling like the taste of her mouth was bitter. That''s why she wanted to have some juice rather than in water. But how did she suddenly start having such a reaction? Raelle recalled everything slowly and locked on to something. Yes, it started from the time she drank that champagne. She couldn''t say that there was something wrong with the quality so the problem was with her.

    It seemed it wasn''t just in her head. Something was really wrong with her. But what could possibly be wrong with her? She had a very strict and healthy diet n. It was even designed by a nutritionist.

    Holding her phone, her mind was wandering off trying to figure out what was wrong with her. That''s why she didn''t even notice the intense gazes looked on her face all this while because neither Song Xin''ai nor Xiang Hulin could bring himself to look away from her. They even have slowed down their breathing in fear that they would disturb her or something.

 Chapter 639 Not Worthwhile

    <h4>Chapter 639 Not Worthwhile</h4>

    Just as Raelle had said, it was a very strange and kind of historic first meeting between parents and their daughter. After all, it was actually the very first time they both had not onlye face to face with Raelle, it was really their first time seeing her in flesh and blood. They might have heard about her from here and there. They also got to see the picture that was posted online recently. However, the effect of seeing her in person waspletely different and a lot bigger than they had thought.

    They both felt like something was stuck in their throat right now. They could neither swallow it nor spit it out.

    This was their own daughter. She had their blood running through her veins but it was their first time seeing her. Wasn''t it pathetic that they never even knew what she looked like when she was just a kid? Even when she was born, before they could hold her, she was gone. Gone from their lives and they lost the right to even call her theirs.

    Clearing her throat, Song Xin''ai mustered her courage and called out to her, "Raelle!"

    "Yes?" Raelle looked up from her ck phone screen at Song Xin''ai.

    "I''m..."

    When Song Xin''ai couldn''t form any words, Raelle was patiently waiting for her to continue. One couldn''t possibly figure out what was on her mind right now. She looked so calm and disinterested that it almost suffocated Song Xin''ai.

    "If you''re going to apologize to me, you better stop right there," said Raelle shocking both Song Xin''ai and Xiang Hulin. "I don''t need your apology."

    "Yes, an apology is not gonna change anything,"mented Song Xin''ai with a self-deprecating smile that looked worse than crying.

    Raelle stared at her face without a flinch as she added, "If you apologized, I''d really look down on you."

    Song Xin''ai eyes snapped up as she stared at Raelle incredulously.

    "Let me say it like this, until this day, I''ve never looked down on you for abandoning me," stated Raelle honestly. "I never felt the need to do so. You made your choice that day. And I don''t mind that. Life always brings you to the crossroad where you have to make a choice. You can either choose to follow the responsibility or your feelings. There is no such thing as getting the best of both worlds. And if you think you can take on both, you''re only fooling yourself." The room was quiet except for the clear voice that rang out and shook the core of the people listening to her. "If after all these years you tell me that you feel regret choosing to stay loyal to your country over choosing the life of your daughter, I''ll really look down on you as a person."

    Song Xin''ai didn''t know how to react right now. She really didn''t know at all. Never in a million years, she would have thought that the daughter that became her biggest nightmare actually would say something like this. Yes, she had always been thinking about this daughter but she didn''t dare try to do anything about it. When everyone thought she was heartless, only she knew how much agony she was going through at that time.

    If not for the incident of Raelle''s kidnapping, perhaps her divorce from Xiang Hulin would have never gone through.

    She had pushed herself into work for years just so the thought of Raelle would stop haunting her. And while trying to hide her pain, she ended up neglecting her other children as well. Especially, Xiang Wai.

    "However, just because I don''t have a problem with you as a person, doesn''t mean that I have no problem with you as my mother. At the end of the day, you really failed as a mother. So, I don''t feel obliged to justify your actions as a mother. If there is anyone who really gets to condemn you, that person is me. But I don''t like troublesome things. So, I''d rather not do it instead."

    Song Xin''ai snickered, "Yes, you should hate your mother."

    "I never said I hate you," answered Raelle. "I don''t have time or energy to waste on emotions like hate. I have always been told I''m unbelievably rational. I never thought there was anything wrong with the choice you made but the people around me thought otherwise and it seems you do the same. However, I''ll still let you know, I respect you as a person. You have made remarkable contributions to the country and you should be proud of that."

    "What''s the point? My own children are not proud of me," said Song Xin''ai.

    "Oh, that just proves you were never meant to be a mother," was Raelle''s brutal p of facts right there. "You don''t have to be good at everything. And it''s okay that you didn''t be a good mother. At least, you are a good person."

    "Did Chenyan teach you to find a silver lining in everything?" asked Song Xin''ai.

    "No," said Raelle. "Yanyan only taught me to believe in myself."

    Song Xin''ai eyes lowered as she said, "Then she really raised you well."

    Raelle nodded without any hesitation, "Yes, that she sure did!"

    Raelle was still as uninterested in her as ever. As she has once told Shui Xian and just told Song Xin''ai as well, she never hated her mother. Because in her rational brain, her actions weren''t wrong. At least, not when you look at it leaving aside your personal feelings.

    She knew already that most people would never agree with her views but she never thought of condemning her mother at all. Especially after seeing her face to face. Just one look and she could already tell that she didn''t have to throw Song Xin''ai in hell, she was already living in one. Perhaps, her choice didn''t have much effect on Raelle since Raelle grew up in love. But that choice pushed Song Xin''ai to a ce she could never pull herself out of.

    Once again, Raelle''s belief was strengthened, ''Hatred was never worthwhile.''

 Chapter 640 Right Or Wrong

    <h4>Chapter 640 Right Or Wrong</h4>

    Song Xin''ai''s mood was alreadyplex but after this discussion with Raelle, she was even feeling depressed. She wanted this daughter to yell at her, me her, and do at least something to make her feel less guilty but she did nothing. Nothing at all.

    And it''s because that Raelle was so sensible and rational that she ended up feeling like the fire of guilt within her was turning into an inferno. And this inferno was gonna consume her soul.

    "Even if you don''t need it, I would still like to say sorry to you," said Song Xin''ai with much difficulty. "As a mother, it was my job to protect you and I didn''t do my job. I''m sorry for not being able to give you aplete family."

    "I already have a family," told Raelle matter-of-factly. "You''re just not a part of it. But I do have a family. And I believe it is aplete one as well. Because I get to decide the definition of aplete family in my life and to me, I really do have aplete family. Who said you can''t have a happy family without parents?" She took a pause and added, "I never needed people to tell me what is right and what is wrong with the way I look at the world and the people around me. I know already my definition of most things doesn''t align well with the definitions that have be a norm."

    "I have plenty of regrets in my life but you aren''t one of them," said Song Xin''ai. "I''m sorry but if I was given the same chance again, I might make the same choice once again. Because I still think that was the right thing to do."

    "Xin''ai!" Xiang Hulin called her out with a warning tone.

    However, Raelle didn''t pay attention to that, she looked at Xiang Hulin and asked, "What about you, General? Do you think what she did was wrong?"

    Xiang Hulin was momentarily stunned at how her attention was now focused on her. He had been the silent onlooker all this while but now, he was pulled into the discussion all of a sudden and he didn''t know how to react. Did he mention that just the way his daughter looked at him was making him feel unnerved? So strange! He was a General! How could he feel this way?

    There wasn''t even any intimidation in her eyes. But perhaps, it was that nothingness in her eyes that was so unnerving.

    He really couldn''t hold her gaze any longer and avoided her eyes as he answered, "Yes. I think she was wrong. No, I don''t just think so. She was wrong!"

    "So, you''d rather have her choose to give up on the lives of millions than give up on the life of her daughter?" asked Raelle in return which shocked him to his core. "It''s easier to say that one is right and the other is wrong. But can you please enlighten me on what is exactly what your definition of right and wrong? And who is decided who is right and who is wrong? Maybe what is right to you is wrong to many. It''s just how the world is. I''ve studied human psychology for far too long to understand one thing, there is no such thing as right and wrong. You can''t possibly find a clear distinction between the two. Because there is really no clear distinction at all."

    She was still as calm as ever as she continued, "Today, you say she was wrong for giving up on me. But if back then, she would have chosen me over the lives of millions, you''d also be among the people to say that she was wrong for choosing her personal feelings over her responsibility and loyalty towards her country and its people. So, in the end, no matter what she did, she was bound to be wrong to someone."

    Song Xin''ai felt her eyes burning. This was the very first time, some time was acknowledging her and her defending her choices. But the fact that the person who was doing it was exactly the one who had the right to condemn her only made it difficult for her to breathe. She felt so stifled right now.

    "General, having the patriotic blood running through your veins, can you say it honestly that you''d choose your child over your country?"

    Xiang Hulin pressed his lips together and said nothing. He had no answer to that question. Not at all. How could he answer it? As she just mentioned, patriotism was in his blood. He was raised that way. From a young age, he listened to all the legends of his family. He knew the heroes he looked up to were real and were also people who shared the same blood as him. He felt pride in that.

    Even when all his family for generations didn''t hesitate giving up their lives and everything for the country, who was he? Could he really be selfish enough to choose his family over his country? He... had no answer. Or perhaps he did but he just couldn''t bring himself to say it.

    "You both are very funny people," said Raelle casually. "You want to draw a clear line between right and wrong and yet here you are... You both don''t even know where you went wrong."

    Listening to her talk was like getting your heart prickled with needles. Every single word she said would poke right where it hurt. There was nothing wrong with her words but somehow they really hurt the two people who were listening to her. They both had aplicated feeling swirling in their hearts. And they both didn''t know how or what to say to her.

    Was there really a right way to interact with her?

    Even if she was their daughter, she was so difficult to understand. Even with their years of experience, they couldn''t see through her at all.

 Chapter 641 Mother & Father

    <h4>Chapter 641 Mother & Father</h4>

    "Chief, I brought your juice!" Cloe strutted inside the room and found the atmosphere quite oppressive and depressing as well. She couldn''t help looking at the two people other than Raelle in the room. Let''s face it, she could not and would not associate the word oppressive and depressing with Raelle. Why? Because that wasn''t her style.

    This stifled and gloomy feeling in the air could never belong to Raelle Xiang!

    "Why did you bring it?" asked Raelle.

    "Chief, show some appreciation. I specifically asked them to make fresh fruit juice for you. I even stood beside the staff and watched them make it with proper hygiene and everything to your liking. You see how attentive I am?"

    She looked like she was trying to look for somepliments from Raelle but she was bound to be disappointed.

    Raelle took the juice from her and started drinking it. Only after taking a couple of sips did she look back at Cloe and said, "So? Are you looking for a raise now?"

    "I don''t mind," Cloe grinned foolishly. Obviously, he''d be a fool if she said no to money. Who doesn''t like pay raises? She definitely did? What can apliment do? Nothing! It was better to get more money out of her boss''s pocket! Hehe!

    "You''re not getting any," Raelle dropped the bucket of cold water on her daydreaming instantly. Even before the dor sign could appear in Cloe''s eyes, it was smashed into smithereens. "You only did your job, I don''t think it''s enough to give you a raise."

    "Stingy!" muttered Cloe.

    "If I was stingy, you wouldn''t be here," was Raelle''s response.

    Cloe''s rubbed her nose awkwardly since she couldn''t deny that. She had the most generous boss in the world. Even her own conscience hurt as she called Raelle stingy.

    "Do you wanna sit down?" asked Raelle.

    "Sure," Cloe sat down instantly and started rubbing her ankles. It was a tiring job to wear heels. Why did she decide to wear the pair that didn''t even fit? Oh, that''s right because it looked super good! Fashion is always above pain! So what she is suffering? For the momentary pleasure of looking good, it was worth it! At least, that''s what she had been chanting in her head to make herself feel better.

    "Should I introduce you to them?" asked Raelle pointing towards Song Xin''ai and Xiang Hulin. "Maybe I should."

    Cloe raised her brow inquisitively. She didn''t know why she needed to be introduced here. Were they important people?

    "That''s Dr. Song Xin''ai, a senior researcher from the Xinli National Research Lab and that''s General Xiang Hulin," Raelle spoke without a ripple in her voice as always. "Or I should introduce them in another way, that''s my mother and that''s my father."

    Cloe''s jaw dropped. Oh no, it literally just dropped. It was this close to hitting the floor! Okay, that''s an exaggeration but really, one could fit a goose egg in her mouth right now for sure!

    Her eyes darted between Song Xin''ai and Xiang Hulin in disbelief while those two were also staring at Raelle in disbelief. They didn''t think she''d acknowledge their rtionship before anyone.

    "Don''t look at me like that," said Raelle to her parents. "I never said you both aren''t my parents. It''s not like I can remove the blood we share."

    Cloe clicked her fingers, "Now I get it!"

    "What?"

    "Why Miss MC always said you look like your father," said Cloe. She pointed at Xiang Hulin, "You really look like your father! This is so amazing!"

    "How is it amazing?" asked Raelle.

    Cloe shrugged her shoulders, "It just is to me. Do I need to have a reason for it? Chief, not everything needs a reason. Just like some feelings don''t really need reasons. You like someone, you just do. You hate someone, you just do. No real reason at all!"

    "There is always a reason," was Raelle''s response.

    Cloe shut up when she heard that. She wasn''t gonna open her mouth to look for trouble for herself. The silence was peaceful. And doesn''t like peace? She definitely loves peace!

    "Chief, why didn''t you finish the juice?" asked Cloe when she saw Raelle cing the ss of juice on the table. And the ss was still half full!

    "I can''t drink anymore," said Raelle. "I can''t swallow anything right now."

    Before Cloe could say anything, Song Xin''ai called out, "Raelle!"

    "Yes, mother?" replied Raelle.

    Song Xin''ai took a deep breath to digest that ''mother'' beforeing to the important discussion, "Did you see a doctor?"

    "And why should I do that?" asked Raelle.

    "Because you don''t look well," stated Song Xin''ai seriously.

    Cloe looked at Raelle''s face but couldn''t tell if something was wrong with her. But she didn''t dare question Song Xin''ai either. First, she was Raelle''s mother. Second, she was medical research personnel, she was keener and more knowledgeable than her. And third, even she had been feeling like something had been wrong with Raelle.

    Perhaps, others didn''t notice it but Song Xin''ai could tell that she was a shade paler than earlier. And she was finding it strange as well.

    "Are you feeling pain anywhere?" asked Song Xin''ai.

    Raelle thought about it real hard before shaking her head. She didn''t think it was pain. But she was definitely not feeling very good. And how did she knows it? Obviously, because normally she didn''t feel like this.

    Song Xin''ai pursed her lips, "You should still see a doctor." At that moment, someone came to call her and she took onest look at Raelle before she left the room. There wasn''t like anything to talk about between them. Even if they were mother and daughter, they were just strangers. And they were the kind of strangers who weren''t meant to get close at all.

    No matter how sensible Raelle was, Song Xin''ai was level-headed enough to know she had no ce in her life. And perhaps, she wasn''t looking for a ce in her life either. However, they both needed this meeting. Especially, Song Xin''ai who finally learned what her daughter thought about her. Although it only made her feel worse, it was still better than nothing.

 Chapter 642 Consequences

    <h4>Chapter 642 Consequences</h4>

    After Song Xin''ai left the room, Cloe hesitated before she asked tentatively, "Chief, do you wanna go to the hospital? Should I make all the arrangements?"

    "For now, go away," was Raelle''s response.

    It wasn''t like Raelle didn''t take Song Xin''ai''s words seriously. In fact, she did take those words really seriously and her brain immediatelypiled the list of abnormalities going on with her in thest two weeks. She was certain that it only started two weeks ago. No matter how oblivious she was to her health, she was still able to tell if there were some changes within her.

    But originally, she didn''t want to rm anyone. She already knew how big of a deal it''ll be once she mentioned that there was something wrong with her. Forget about Mu Chenyan or her Opa, even Shui Xian will start spinning like a top around her. Last time, he only noticed the shoe bites and looked so distressed. She didn''t want to think about what he''ll look like once she really had some kind of disease.

    Maybe, she shouldn''t think that far ahead. She was young and healthy. How can she get a disease all of a sudden, out of nowhere? She might be just sick because of the changing weather. Yes! That''s the exnation! She wasn''t used to this much heat in the country she grew up in. Maybe the weather is causing all this. Yes, yes, that has to be it!

    No matter how she convinced herself, she still knew she had to visit a hospital as soon as possible. And she had to do it without anyone''s knowledge as well. It was hard to do that with those shadow bodyguards lurking around her everywhere.

    And let''s be honest, Raelle didn''t know how to be sneaky. Yes, she didn''t know at all. She always did everything openly and without any hesitation. How will she know how to sneak around?

    How about calling Hyson and taking a quick lesson on how to sneak around? But she ruled out that idea as soon as it appeared. Not because she didn''t want to share it with Hyson but because she knew he must be sleeping already. Beforeing to this banquet, she already talked to him and he told her how he had been awake since yesterday and didn''t get to sleep a wink in over 24 hours. So, he was nning on going to the hotel and sleeping!

    While Raelle was thinking deeply about her next course of action, Xiang Hulin had been focused on her all this time. He just couldn''t look away. She was much more beautiful than she looked in that photo and she was much more real than what he had been hearing about her.

    It can be said that he heard a lot about Raelle from people around him. Lately, those people involved his son, Xiang Weimin, and his daughter, Xiang Wai. She was exactly like what they told him but she was also much more than that. There was that light of pride in his eyes that he couldn''t hide when he looked at her. Even if he wanted to, he couldn''t push down the corners of his lips.

    He couldn''t recall who told him but someone told him that she looked like him the most. And now that he was seeing her, he had to say, she really looked like him. But it was a good thing that she didn''t have his personality. Although she was just as thorny as he had been all his life, she was at least good with her words. Unlike him, who had never been good with words, and that made him suffer a lot of times.

    Clearing his throat, he called out, "Raelle!"

    "Yes?" replied Raelle.

    He was a little bit disappointed that she didn''t call him father. Even though she called Song Xin''ai, her mother earlier. He pushed down that disappointment and asked, "Did Chenchen teach you that every choice has its consequences?"

    Raelle nodded her head, "Of course, she did. She also said that every word spoken also has consequences."

    "And you still speak like this?" he was actually amused when he asked her. He really didn''t mind the way she talked because he didn''t find anything wrong with it. Even if she didn''t me him or her mother for anything, he still didn''t think she was strange. Because he could see from her words that she was unique and very clear about her thoughts and ideas. And thoughts and ideas might not sit well with most people but those thoughts and ideas made her who she was - A strong and confident woman!

    "Because I''m someone who can deal with the consequences," was Raelle''s reply. "Yanyan said I should be careful of the consequences. However, I''m definitely not someone who is scared of consequences and neither do I like to hide from them at all. I might dislike trouble but that doesn''t mean I don''t know how to deal with it."

    "Ah! You''re really a Xiang," he smiled ever so gently.

    "That I sure am!" she repeated. "And so are you!"

    Xiang Hulin was stunned frozen by her words.

    "Or do you think you are not one anymore?"

    Xiang Hulin shook his head, "As long as I''m alive, I''ll always be a Xiang."

    "That''s good," she said. "Don''t forget that. You''re Opa''s son, after all. You became my fatherter on. Don''t forget your priorities."

    Xiang Hulin bit his lips as he felt like she was trying to hint at something by saying that so he spoke his mind to her, "I had the n to go and see my father. But he''ll not like to see me again."

    "Does that mean, you''re giving up?"

    "He is my father," replied Xiang Hulin. "He has the right to be angry with me. I don''t have the right to give up on him."

    "Then you might as well go to see your father," said Raelle straightforwardly. "Don''t dilly dally."

    "But he..." He wanted to say something but in the end, he nodded his head obediently. "You''re right. Just because I''m scared of him, I should stop dilly-dallying already. After all, my original purpose ofing here was to see him."

 Chapter 643 Hefty Price

    <h4>Chapter 643 Hefty Price</h4>

    Xiang Hulin was a man of action rather than words. He immediately stood up and that''s when Raelle spoke up again, "You''re going right now?"

    Xiang Hulin hesitated but still replied uncertainly, "Yeah?"

    Raelle stared straight at him and Xiang Hulin felt like there was something in her eyes that he wasn''t able to understand right now. But what was it?

    "Just sit down," said Raelle. "By the time you reach there, Opa would have gone to sleep. Do you think he is awake all night like you?"

    Xiang Hulin pursed his lips and understood what she said. He sat back down and his brows suddenly furrowed up and he asked, "How do you know I don''t sleep?"

    "Just guessing," she replied.

    Xiang Hulin narrowed his eyes at her, "I highly doubt that." If she was just guessing, she wouldn''t look so certain.

    "Well, don''t old people always lose their sleep?"

    Xiang Hulin''s lips twitched, "I''m old and your Opa isn''t?"

    "You look older, father," said Raelle. "My Opa is still very handsome!"

    Xiang Hulin didn''t know how to respond at all to her. He really wanted to say something but he held himself back. He sighed to himself. Fine! She was talking about his father, he could just let it go since at least she called him, her father right now.

    *BZzzzz!*

    Raelle opened her clutch and took out her phone which was vibrating. She looked at the caller id and then looked up at Xiang Hulin before she epted the call.

    "Elle, my dear baby, can you help your Yanyan a little?"

    Raelle stayed quiet for a moment. "Yanyan, you''re drunk."

    Mu Chenyan giggled giddily, "I drank a little. Just a teeny-tiny bit. Not much."

    Raelle leaned back leisurely as she inquired, "How may I help you?"

    "Can you call home and check out if Elder Xiang is awake?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Raelle didn''t even have to ask to know what was up with this woman right now. It was obvious that Mu Chenyan was drunk and she didn''t want to go home while Grandfather Xiang was awake. Because if she did, Elder Xiang will give her a long lecture that she wouldn''t be able to forget for at least a week.

    Not like there was anything new about that. And Raelle was certain Mu Chenyan wasn''t this cautious because of herself.

    "How is Yue? And how about your niece and nephew?" asked Raelle in return.

    Mu Chenyan licked her lips and her voice lowered as she replied, "Yue is unconscious. Weimin and Wai are no better right now. But it''s not my fault! They already knew about my alcohol tolerance and yet they challenged me again today. I just apanied them. Really not my fault."

    "It''s never your fault," said Raelle.

    Just as she thought, Mu Chenyan was worried that if Grandfather Xiang knew about how she dragged the other three with her into her mess, she''d be dead meat!

    "Wait for a minute," said Raelle and disconnected the call. Then she called Xiang Manor and inquired about her Opa. Knowing that he went back to his room, she hung up. She called Mu Chenyan again and told her, "Wait an hour and try to wake everyone up while you are at it. Opa has gone back to his room."

    "Oh, that''s good. That''s good," Mu Chenayn seemed to be patting her chest.

    "If you''re so scared of death, why court it?"

    "Because she never learns."

    Raelle looked up at Xiang Hulin who said that. And even Mu Chenyan heard his voice and frowned.

    "Elle, who is with you?"

    "Take a guess," was Raelle''s response.

    Mu Chenyan frowned, "Is that my Ge?"

    "It is," answered Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan went silent when she heard that. Her already drunk brain started buzzing but she didn''t forget to ask, "You''re actually sitting together with my Ge? Is he alright?"

    "Shouldn''t you be asking me if I''m alright?" asked Raelle.

    "What can happen to my Elle? I''m more worried about my Ge if he is okay under the attack of your tongue."

    "I don''t attack people," Raelle defended herself.

    "Yes, you go for the kill!"

    "Are you sure you''re not talking about yourself?" asked Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan ''hehe-ed'' before saying, "I''m still very gentlepared to you." She took a pause and said, "Say hi to my Ge. And tell him, I miss him."

    "Oh, you''re really drunk," stated Raelle because Mu Chenyan would never say that out loud if she waspletely sober. She had been holding in her feelings for years. And even if she missed her brother, she''d never mention it before Raelle. "Anyway, you can tell him that yourself."

    With that, Raelle stood up and brought the phone to Xiang Hulin who was left staring at her and the phone in her hand. But he still took it from her. "Chenchen?" he called out.

    "Ge~~" Mu Chenyan''s voice sounded so annoying at the moment but Xiang Hulin didn''t even flinch. If anything, he had a doting and helpless look on his face right now.

    "How much did you drink?" He asked.

    "Not much," replied Mu Chenyan in a whiny tone. "Ge, are you okay? Let me send you some patience and strength. I know you need it desperately to interact with that daughter of yours. She can be a headache whenever she wanted to be."

    Xiang Hulin chuckled, "No, she is very sensible."

    "Sensible? Nah! She is so damn logical and rational that it makes her seem too detached from everything. But trust me, she isn''t heartless. She is just... special. So, bear with it. She is an amazing person once you get to know her."

    Xiang Hulin continued to smile and looked up at Raelle as he spoke, "Chenchen, I don''t need you to tell me that. I can see that she is amazing." When Raelle saw the pride in her eyes, she found it quite interesting.

    Raelle had no hard feelings for Song Xin''ai and neither did she have any hard feelings for Xiang Hulin. In fact, for Xiang Hulin, she even thought he was wronged when he wasn''t at fault. It wasn''t even his choices but he paid the hefty price for it.

 Chapter 644 Really Wrong

    <h4>Chapter 644 Really Wrong</h4>

    Although Xiang Hulin wanted to spend more time with Raelle, he didn''t push his luck at all. He understood something very clearly about Raelle after hearing the opinion of both Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai. She didn''t like people pushing her.

    It happened with Xiang Weimin. He desperately wanted to just rush into her life and Raelle would never allow it. That''s why she came on too strongly towards him. But her attitude waspletely different when she met Xiang Wai. Only because Xiang Wai was merely curious about her. She didn''t show whether she wanted to be a part of Raelle''s life or not.

    He didn''t know how right he was but he was certain he couldn''t push his luck with Raelle. Knowing his sister, Mu Chenyan, it was obvious that the girl she raised couldn''t be too easy to deal with. And he was actually finding it funny how Mu Chenyan was worried about him just because he was sitting alone with Raelle.

    But after seeing the spectacle from earlier, he couldn''t really me Mu Chenyan either. There was something she said that was still ringing in his mind, ''She is too logical and rational. She appears to be detached from everything but she actually wasn''t.''

    He agreed with this view of her. Although it seemed Raelle was too detached, it wasn''t exactly the case. If it was, she wouldn''t have told Song Xin''ai that she believed her to be a good person but not a good mother. Whether she made a right choice or a wrong one, she had already made one.

    While giving Raelle''s phone back, he couldn''t helpmenting, "Chenchen''s habit of drinking is still as bad as ever."

    "It isn''t," said Raelle. "Just so you know, she has never drank in front of me. She is a very responsible person, it''s only after marriage that she is getting back to living her life. Although it might take her a while to find the right way to live again, it''s a fact that it''s about time she should start living her life for herself instead of me."

    Xiang Hulin went quiet when he heard that. How could he respond to that? It wasn''t like he couldn''t tell what Mu Chenyan gave up. He owes her too much. Even if he had another life, he might not be able to pay back whatever he owed her. She not only raised his daughter with love, care, and attention, but she also took care of his father.

    Yes, if he mentioned it to Mu Chenyan, she''d say that she did nothing for him. To her, his father was just as much her father. It was a different fact that she just didn''t call him father. But whenever she needed a father, she''d always be looking for her Elder Xiang.

    "I''lle to see father," said Xiang Hulin before leaving the waiting room.

    "Okay," was the only answer Raelle gave him.

    She unlocked her phone and looked through her contacts. Realizing how few contacts she had, she stood up and decided to look for Cloe. The contact number she needed wasn''t on her phone but Cloe would have everyone''s contact details.

    While she was leaving the room with her eyes on her phone, someone stood in her way. She turned right so as not to bump into the other person but that person also stepped right. Raelle stepped left and that person followed suit. Raelle locked her phone and lifted her eyes to look at who was trying to act like a tyrant and step in her way.

    Seeing that face before her, Raelle just had to say, "Don''t like being a human? Why are you acting like a roadblock?"

    Ruan Meilin red at her hatefully, "Who are you calling a roadblock?"

    "Whoever is acting like one," replied Raelle matter-of-factly.

    "You!" Ruan Meilin was already seething with anger but she stopped herself in time. Putting on a beautiful smile, she said, "Forget it, I won''t argue with someone like you."

    "Do you even deserve to talk to me?" asked Raelle. She would usually avoid unnecessary talking but today, she just thought she had something to say to this woman. This clown was not even funny and yet liked to parade in front of her in such a pompous way.

    Ruan Meilin sneered, "Who do you think you are? A queen? Why can''t I stand here and talk to you? Do you think you''re better than me?"

    Raelle found her antics too boring. Yes, this was definitely boring! She finally understood what boring was! What a realization!

    "I can be the queen, but do you think you even deserve to be even the maid? With yourck of awareness, you wouldn''t even have survived for 5 minutes in a pce drama."

    Ruan Meilin clenched her fists tightly and gritted her teeth.

    "Oh, and I am better than you," added Raelle. "If nothing else, I am Shui Xian''s wife. Miss Ruan, who are you?"

    Raelle''s attack was almost like Tang Hebe. They both reminded her how they both at least had a legitimate ce in Shui Xian''s life but who was she? What was she exactly? Nothing! Nothing at all! She was merely an employee!

    "I''m President Raelle even without Shui Xian," Raelle continued. "I''ll still stand at the top alone. But what about you, Miss Ruan? What are you without your status as an employee of Shui Xian? You''re not even an heiress. Do you think you can stand beside my husband without that title of a VP?"

    Just because Raelle didn''t like arguments didn''t mean she was a pushover and she had to make that clear to this woman who didn''t take the hint the first time. From the moment they first talked on the phone when her phone got exchanged with Shui Xian''s, she had made her status clear and yet, this woman was still in her own world. Did she think Raelle couldn''t do anything to her? Is that why she was still trying to worm her way between her and her husband?

    Because if that was the case, then she was really wrong.

 Chapter 645 So Much Drama

    <h4>Chapter 645 So Much Drama</h4>

    Raelle was a possessive person even if she knew it or not. But she sure was! You eye her things, she won''t mind gauging your eyes out, no matter how troublesome it seemed. She''d still don''t mind taking on this trouble.

    She wouldn''t me her husband for attracting bees and butterflies everywhere. After all, it meant her husband was a high-quality man that everyone eyed him. However, that didn''t mean she won''t do anything to these bees and butterflies who didn''t know their ce at all. Even if he was married, they''d still try to attract his attention. Wasn''t it something shameless?!

    "So what if you''re his wife?" Ruan Meilin retorted with rage. "Didn''t he still leave you? Didn''t you have toe here all alone? What are you so proud about? Just because youe from a better family than me, do you think you''re superior to me? You''re nothing on your own!"

    "How many insecurities do you have?" asked Raelle. "Do you think everyone can be attacked like this? Even if I''m nothing or left with nothing, do I look like care? A person like you who already looks down on herself, do you think everyone else looks at you the same way? It''s just your inner self showing. The more you try to hide your ws and cover them up, the more it shows up in your words."

    "Is everything okay, Chief?" Cloe just noticed Ruan Meilin standing with Raelle and her heart suddenly shook. No, she wasn''t worried about her boss. And she wasn''t worried that this Ruan Meilin would get hurt either. It was just that, she felt ufortable seeing how she was missing out on drama! Such excitement, what was she doing here?! So, she instantly ran over to Raelle''s side.

    Cloe was being so obvious that Raelle could read her like an open book. She already knew what was going on in her head. She didn''t even have to ask to know about it.

    "Give me the other phone," said Raelle.

    Cloe frowned when she heard that. Raelle''s business phone was always with her. Raelle rarely asked for it. She wondered why her boss was asking for it right now. However, she still opened her purse and took out the phone for Raelle, "Here you go, Chief."

    Raelle unlocked the phone, scrolled down the contacts, and pulled out a name card. "Your phone number?" She was looking at Ruan Meilin when she asked that question making both Ruan Meilin and Cloe look at her incredulously. What was she up to? Cloe didn''t think these two were on the level of asking for each other''s phone numbers. Even if it wasn''t Raelle''s personal phone number.

    "Chief, why do you need her number?" asked Cloe tentatively.

    "So I can give her Dr. Lee''s contact details," answered Raelle. Then she looked at Ruan Meilin and added, "I''ll personally tell Dr. Lee about your condition. She will help you. Trust me, she is one of the best in her field!"

    Cloe''s lips twitched while Ruan Meilin was confused because she knew nothing about this Dr. Lee at all. However, her intuition told her, it was nothing good.

    "What do you mean by she''ll help me?" asked Ruan Meilin.

    "She is a renowned psychologist," said Raelle. "Of course, she is the best person who can help you. But not everyone can contact her and ask for an appointment. But I can get an appointment for you. Don''t feel burdened by taking my help. You don''t owe me anything for such a huge favor. I just love helping people. I''m just that big-hearted."

    It took Ruan Meilin a moment to realize what exactly Raelle was talking about while Cloe had to bit the insides of her cheeks to stop herself from bursting intoughter. She couldn''t help it. It was hard to suppress it anymore. How can she suppress it now? Her boss was talking like she was being magnanimous but then she looked at Ruan Meilin and she had to say, it was really Raelle''s kindness that she was willing to offer help to someone like this psycho!

    Cloe also felt like someone had to tell this Ruan Meilin that she needed help. She didn''t know why no one said it before this day. But then again, only Raelle would be carefree enough to mention this so casually.

    "Do I look like a mentally ill person?!" Ruan Meilin almost roared at Raelle in anger.

    Raelle was still the same ever as she nodded honestly, "Yes, you do look like you''re mentally unstable. But there is nothing to be ashamed of. No one is entirely sane these days. So, it''s okay. Don''t be so hard on yourself." She lifted her hand as if wanting to pat her shoulder but then she used her phone to pat her shoulder as she said, "You need help. Don''t take it lightly. If you won''t love yourself, who will?"

    Raelle stepped from her side and walked away but not before throwing some words over her shoulder, "And don''t worry, I''ll let Cloe inform you about the appointment details once I arrange it. No need for a thank you!"

    Cloe finallyughed out loud once Raelle walked away. She didn''t care about Ruan Meilin''s face which looked worse than the bottom of a pot right now! But it was hrious! Super hrious!

    It seemed her sense of humor was honed after staying with Raelle so she was actually able to feel like all of this was aedy show.

    Taking a deep breath, Cloe said, "Miss Ruan, I have your contact details. I''ll send you all the details of Dr. Lee. Don''t worry at all! I''m very professional!"

    "You!"

    "Bye-bye!"

    Cloe waved at her cheekily before she also followed Raelle and went away. Who cared about Ruan Meilin''s mood or thoughts? At least, these twodies didn''t give a damn about it! The only thing Cloe was concerned about was that tonight was actually a fun night with so much drama!

 Chapter 646 To Skin You

    <h4>Chapter 646 To Skin You</h4>

    Ruan Meilin was still seething when she heard someone giggling. She turned around to look and her anger soared when she saw Tang Hebe standing there. She clearly looked like she had been there all along and she had heard everything from earlier as well. From the look on her face, she seemed to have enjoyed this live show as well.

    And indeed, Tang Hebe had been standing there from the beginning of the confrontation. When she saw Raelle, she wanted toe up to say hello to her. But who knew her cousin was even more eager than her to rush into her own demise? Seeing Ruan Meilin, Tang Hebe stopped and even wanted to leave but something in her stopped her, and she just stood there and listened to everything.

    Calling it a confrontation would be wrong since Raelle had the upper hand from the very beginning. Tang Hebe could even tell that Raelle wasn''t even taking Ruan Meilin seriously and Tang Hebe really appreciated this attitude of hers. Because for the longest time, she had allowed herself to be the victim because of everything the people around her said.

    But Raelle wasn''t like her. Yourment is yourment, she won''t take it to her heart. No, she won''t even bother listening to yourment.

    "Are you doneughing?" asked Ruan Meilin.

    Tang Hebe shrugged, "I''m notughing. I''m just feeling happy for you, cousin!" That emphasis on ''cousin'' sounded very strange and mocking to Ruan Meilin''s ears but she had no proof of that.

    "Oh, and why is that so?" inquired Ruan Meilin.

    "Aiya, isn''t it because you have such good luck," replied Tang Hebe. "Don''t you know how fortunate you are? Raelle Xiang doesn''t extend her hand to help someone in need for just anyone. Also, that Dr. Lee... I''ve heard about her abroad. She is really the best choice you have. And I''m telling you, you should be counting your lucky stars since it''s really not everyone''s cup of tea to make an appointment with Dr. Lee. But this big pie fell into yourp while you didn''t even have to extend any effort. How lucky!"

    Although it sounded like she was being envious of Ruan Meilin, anyone with a little brain could tell she was gloating and mocking Ruan Meilin right now. Those nice words hid a sharp knife that she was plunging into Ruan Meilin''s heart.

    "Don''t cross the line!" warned Ruan Meilin. "Do you think I''m mentally ill?"

    "Are you?" Tang Hebe gasped in surprise. "Oh my, cousin! Then we really need to hurry up and do something about it. Mental illnesses are silent killers. We wouldn''t want you to suffer all alone. Let me help you."

    "Shut up!" Ruan Meilin roared attracting the attention of quite a few people around them. Although Tang Hebe chose to ignore those eyes didn''t mean Ruan Meilin was able to do the same as well. After all these years of being the VP with high status, she had be arrogant and conceited. Also, she was very self-conscious about her image as well.

    Who said she didn''t want to tear off the mask she had been wearing for years? Of course, she didn''t want to appear like Tang Hebe and look like a copycat anymore. But now, after all these years, this mask had be a rope around her neck, strangling her, tangled up with her. It had be impossible to extricate herself from it anymore. She had already expanded too much effort to wear this mask, now she could only live with it.

    Ruan Meilin put on a smile and humbly gave a small bow to apologize to the people around, trying to maintain her good persona. Tang Hebe could only roll her eyes at her act. She was too into this act was all Tang Hebe thought.

    Ruan Meilin pulled Tang Hebe aside to an empty corner and warned her, "Don''t think you''re so smart. At the end of the day, you can do nothing to me. As for me, you know what I am capable of. I heard you really cherish that bastard son you brought with you."

    "You dare!"

    Ruan Meilin chuckled, "Wanna try?" She red at Tang Hebe as she continued, "I''m warning you, don''t try to incite me. If I became angry, I''ll show you how mentally ill I am."

    Tang Hebe was mad. She was super mad but she calmed herself down and smiled at Ruan Meilin. Thetter found that smile really unsettling and her feeling was proven right when Tang Hebe opened her mouth, "Do you think you can bind Shui Xian just because he owes you a favor? Hah! Let me tell you, once he got to know what kind of y you staged, that favor will turn into the curse of your life!"

    Ruan Meilin was startled. She believed no one knew that secret. Even the person involved knew nothing and she took care of everyone else involved in that y. How did she know? She suddenly felt a panic rising in her heart but she had to hide her true feelings from Tang Hebe. So, she bluffed, "So what? I have done so much Shui Xian. He won''t abandon me just because I lied to him."

    Tang Hebeughed out loud. Sheughed so much that tears almost fell from her eyes. "Shui Xian won''t abandon you? Just what have you been doing all these years? You still don''t know anything about Shui Xian. Does he look like a good guy? Trust me, he isn''t. He hates it the most when people lie to him. He won''t hesitate to skin you alive for what you did to someone he loved dearly just to aplish your wish! You don''t wanna awaken the monster in him."

    Ruan Meilin''s body shook but she still put up a strong front, "How will he know the truth? Who will tell him? You? If you wanted to, you''d have done it long ago!"

    "Until now, I''ve been quiet just because I still had some hope that you''ll turn a new leaf but you aren''t getting anywhere!" Tang Hebe was disgusted just looking at her, "Dare threaten me again and I''ll show you exactly what I am capable of. I am no longer that little girl who fell for your stupid words!"

 Chapter 647 Broke Your Family

    <h4>Chapter 647 Broke Your Family</h4>

    While the dinner banquet was full of drama, Mu Chenyan was sitting in the club with her niece and nephew. Oh, her best friend was there right beside her as well but Yue Yue had passed out long ago. So, her head was now lying on the table and she was oblivious to how much the other three drank before calling it a night.

    Mu Chenyan hadn''t booked a private room. They were sitting in a circr ck leather sofa booth. The club wasn''t rowdy or boisterous. It was a high-ss club so even if they weren''t in the private room, it was still their personal space and felt rather private as well.

    Following Raelle''s advice, Mu Chenyan had asked the waiter to get some lime water for the Xiang siblings and as for Yue Yue, she''d just let her best friend sleep. Because even if she tried, she won''t be able to wake her up at this time. Since it was pointless, she''d rather not waste her time on it.

    "Wai! Drink some lime water," said Mu Chenyan. "Weimin, you too! Sober up a little. I can''t take you both home this way. Even if Elder Xiang slept by the time we reached, he has eyes and ears everywhere in that house. He''ll have me kneel on a durian if he learned I made you both this drunk."

    While saying that, Mu Chenyan didn''t forget to take a sip of her drink again.

    Xiang Wai drank the lime water and her senses became clearer. She wasn''t aplete lost cause like Yue Yue. Of course, she still had her sensibility and she was very aware of her surroundings as well. With the nature of their jobs, it was obvious that both Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin were very good drinkers. Their harsh training wasn''t a joke but they still fell in front of Mu Chenyan who seemed like a bottomless pit!

    Howe she just didn''t get drunk?

    Okay, Mu Chenyan was drunk but not just to their states.

    "Aunt, just how much can you drink?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "A lot," answered Mu Chenyan casually.

    "Aunt, be specific!"

    Mu Chenyan shrugged, "I can''t be specific, the only thing I can tell you is that I have never passed out. Never ever!"

    "Wow! You''re awesome!" Xiang Wai gave her a thumbs up trying to keep her eyes open. She ced her arms on the table and ced her face on her hands as she continued to look at Mu Chenyan.

    "Do you have something to ask, Wai?"

    Xiang Wai nodded her head, "I do. I feel like I have so many questions for you. And I also feel like you''d have all the answers that I''m looking for."

    "Then just ask," said Mu Chenyan. "I don''t mind answering. If I can, I definitely will."

    Xiang Wai took a while to ask, "Aunt, do you hate my mother?"

    Mu Chenyan was stunned to hear that question but she suddenly smiled and shook her head, "Nope. I never hated my sister-inw. Not even once in my life."

    "But why? Don''t you think she broke your family?" asked Xiang Wai. "I can tell you really love this family. Then why don''t you hate her for taking it from you?"

    Mu Chenyan took a deep breath and took another sip of her drink, "My family is still my family. Even if it''s broken, the family is still mine and no one can take that from me. It''s true that I really love this family but the distance didn''t manage to take that love from me. This family is still as important to me as ever." She took a pause and looked into Xiang Wai''s eyes, "As for hating your mother, why should I do that? She wasn''t the one who asked my Ge to leave the family. She only asked for a divorce and as a person, she deserved her freedom. Maybe she finally thought divorce was the best choice. I can''t judge her for that and neither can I hate her for that. I wasn''t part of that rtionship. In fact, I don''t think even my Ge hates her for that."

    Xiang Wai was quiet for a while before she hummed, "Yes, even Papa doesn''t hate her. Whenever I ask him why he just gives me a smile and brushes the topic off. I don''t even understand him."

    "He was always difficult to understand," said Mu Chenyan. "When Ge and Song Xin''ai fell in love, it was a passionate love. Anyone could see they really loved each other. However, your grandmother had said back then that their rtionship won''t work out. She didn''te between Ge and Song Xin''ai because she believed she had no right to stop her son from following his heart. However, she also warned him to think it through."

    "And how did grandmother know it wouldn''t work out?" asked Xiang Wai in confusion.

    "I also asked her that question," started Mu Chenyan recalling the memory. "She said, ''My son doesn''t know how to express himself in words and Song Xin''aicks attention in her life. What she craves the most ispliments from her loved ones, attention, love, and care. She wants to be the center of attention for once. And even though my son loves her, he won''t be able to do justice. Because he thinks actions speak louder than words but he doesn''t realize that sometimes, some people just want to hear words.''" Mu Chenyan sighed, "I don''t know if she was right or not. What I know is that before the talk of divorce started, your parents never had a fight. Not even a single disagreement or an argument. But then suddenly, Song Xin''ai wanted a divorce."

    "You never asked why she wanted the divorce?" asked Xiang Wai.

    Mu Chenyan shook her head, "That wasn''t my ce to ask. It can never be my ce to ask. I did want to ask my Ge but I was afraid of hurting him so I dropped the topic altogether."

 Chapter 648 Mend Herself

    <h4>Chapter 648 Mend Herself</h4>

    In her drunken stupor, Xiang Wai felt like everything that Mu Chenyan spoke was a mess. But her brain was still able to understand that mess at some level. No matter how strange that sounded.

    She turned her eyes towards her brother who was silent as always. But currently, he had his eyes closed while rubbing the bridge of his nose. It seemed she really brought this upon herself and her brother by asking for this drinking challenge with her aunt.

    Clearly, this aunt was a monster! Definitely not someone to be trifled with.

    "Aunt!"

    "Hm?"

    "Have you ever been in a rtionship?" asked Xiang Wai.

    Mu Chenyan frowned. To be honest, she didn''t like this question. No matter who was the one asking she never liked it. But everyone seemed to be curious about this detail for some bizarre reason. Thankfully, her Elle wasn''t the least bit curious or interested in this topic and she never even asked her anything remotely simr.

    "Nope," answered Mu Chenyan. Even if she didn''t like the question, she liked the person asking this question. So, she was willing to answer it.

    "Not even once?"

    Mu Chenyan shook her head, "If we are talking about a romantic rtionship, I never had been in one."

    "There are other kinds of rtionships?" inquired Xiang Wai.

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head solemnly, "Yes! There are different types of rtionships. Some begin with strangers, some are known as friends, some rtionships are based on pity and some are based on dependence. There are also some casual rtionships and the ones built in times of need. So next time, make it clear what kind of a rtionship you''re talking about."

    Xiang Wai''s brain was processing slowly but she still understood what Mu Chenyan said. And she actually agreed with her as well. She felt like her aunt''s words made sense.

    "Then, to be specific, have you ever been in love? The one between a man and a woman?"

    Mu Chenyan tsked, "No way! What a waste of time!"

    "Is it?"

    Mu Chenyan sighed, "Not really. It''s just that I never understood the love between a man and a woman."

    "Why not? You look like a smart person,"mented Xiang Wai. She felt confused, she thought her aunt knew everything and now that there was something that even Mu Chenyan couldn''t understand, she didn''t know how to feel about that.

    "Even if you''re smart, what does it matter?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Your intelligence isn''t enough when ites to love. Or so, I''ve been told. When I was young, I thought love was a delusion our brain created just to lure us into reproducing for the sake of saving humanity."

    Xiang Wai gaped at her in disbelief and blinked. Even Xiang Weimin opened his eyes to stare at Mu Chenyan with interest shing in his eyes. He looked amused right now but Mu Chenyan wasn''t embarrassed.

    "What is your idea of love now, aunt?" This question came from Xiang Weimin.

    "I''m still not very sure," answered Mu Chenyan. She pointed at her drunk best friend and added, "You look at Yue, she is someone who worshipped love like a god. But guess what, that same love is the reason why for the past two decades she has been suffering all alone. How am I supposed to understand this love when I feel like her choices were foolish?" She took a pause and thought deeply before adding, "If anything I''m certain about love is that, it makes you foolish. That''s right. It lowers your intelligence. Even a genius can make the most idiotic choices once in love."

    "Aunt has a strong opinion on love," said Xiang Wai. "But I agree. It really makes you foolish and vulnerable."

    "Dear niece, who hurt you?" Mu Chenyan''s eyes sharpened but no one noticed at this time.

    "There was this guy I fell for," replied Xiang Wai. "Since he was always alone and a little gloomy, I thought I''ll fit into his world. After all, I for once wanted to be the one and only in someone''s life. I thought hecked the same attention as I did and if I offered it to him, he''ll reciprocate it. But I was wrong. After a ten-year-long tug and war, we both realized that we both weren''t what we were looking for. Perhaps, he wasn''t looking for attention from the beginning, or perhaps, my idea of love was wrong from the beginning."

    Mu Chenyan''s eyes narrowed as she listened attentively before saying, "Ah! Two young broken souls, trying to mend each other with a part of themselves. What a recipe for tragedy!"

    Xiang Wai was surprised to hear thatment from Mu Chenyan and stared into her aunt''s eyes.

    Mu Chenyan shed her a smile as she said, "Dear niece, you need to first make yourself your own one and only. Maybe the attention he needed in his life wasn''t the same kind you werecking. And there is also a possibility that you both had the wrong idea of love. But if you managed to drag it for ten long years, it means somewhere a part of you both wasn''t willing to give up. And that''s not love exactly. It means you both formed the rtionship of dependence on each other." She extended her hand and patted Xiang Wai''s head gently, "You did well. But now, it''s time for you to learn without that dependence. It''s a bit scary at first and a little difficult as well. But I assure you, it''ll be worth it."

    Xiang Wai honestly didn''t know how to react to those words. Yes, it was true that she had grown a little too dependent on the rtionship she shared with Zhai Yanjun. No matter what kind of a rtionship they shared, they both had a strong dependence on it. And she was finding it a bit difficult to grow out of it in the past year as well.

    However, she also agreed with Mu Chenyan that she really needed to do this. She had to mend herself first.

 Chapter 649 Stand With Her

    <h4>Chapter 649 Stand With Her</h4>

    Mu Chenyan didn''t know much about the love life of Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin. Even if she had been keeping an eye on their situations, it mostly involved things rted to their health and their career. She wasn''t overbearing enough to try to control everything. Yes, she was overbearing at some level but she wasn''t aplete wacko. Not just yet!

    And that''s why she didn''t know that Xiang Wai had been in a rtionship with someone for ten years and it seems she hurt herself. As for why she said she hurt herself instead of saying that she got hurt. The answer was obvious. Xiang Wai had the expectations set high from that rtionship that didn''t even begin from love.

    If that wasn''t asking for a heartbreak what was?

    Mu Chenyan wouldn''t call herself a genius but she believed that the pain we have to suffer is mostly brought upon us by ourselves. The people just be the means. But at the end of the day, it''s our own expectations that hurt us the most. Not people!

    Who asked us to have wrong expectations from people?

    Even we end up failing ourselves, what gives us the courage to have faith in others that they won''t fail us one day? That''s just absurd!

    "Aunt, it seems you have a strong influence on Raelle,"mented Xiang Wai.

    Mu Chenyanughed out loud, "No. It''s the other way around. I was a brat before she came into my life. I only learned to be a human after I met Raelle. Trust me, I have no influence on her. I was aplete psychopath in my younger years. My ideas bordered around insanity. It was only when Raelle became a part of my life that I started learning what responsibility was and from the moment she started talking, I knew I was sent my nemesis to suffer."

    "What?" Xiang Wai asked in surprise.

    Mu Chenyan wouldn''t usually talk this openly but currently, she was tipsy and she was talking to her trusted niece and nephew. So, she let herself go and spoke her mind.

    "I truly thought myself to be all high and mighty when I was young. I was arrogant to the extreme, I was rude, I was careless and I was a nutjob! You ask anyone, they won''t have anything good to say about my personality," told Mu Chenyan. "But it changed once I lost people who made me feel like I could rule the world. Whether it was your grandmother or your father, they always protected me. But in one day, I lost both of them. It felt like someone dropped me from the sky and I fell hard to the ground. And it hurt. It hurt badly!"

    She sniffled as she continued, "I believed myself to be the smartest one but I wasn''t. When Raelle started talking, I felt like my real race of life began from there. She was sharp, keen, and intelligent. She brought chaos into my life when she made me realize that I wasn''t even as smart as a baby. You can never understand how it feels when a three-year-old makes you question your sanity as an adult. But she did it repeatedly to the point that she became a challenge I had to win! So, I did everything I could to make sure I''m always a step ahead of her."

    "Were you able to?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "Sadly, no," Mu Chenyan sighed. "How can you win against someone like her? However, as she grew up, she stopped trying to win. She purposely lost in front of me so that I can stop trying so hard to be the definition of perfection in her life. And when I confront her about that, she said, ''Yanyan, you''re not perfect.'' I felt like I was being insulted but then she continued, ''But neither am I. Why are you tiring yourself running after something like perfection that doesn''t exist? Even the experiments I perform in theb onlye out with 99.99% uracy. That''s not a perfect score. So, let''s not tire ourselves.''"

    Mu Chenyan smiled when she thought about that time and said, "I felt so bloody touched by her words but the very next second, she smacked me with, ''Also, you''re getting wrinkles. That means you''re getting old. So, have mercy on yourself and take some rest.''"

    Xiang Wai and Xiang Weiminughed out when they heard it and Mu Chenyan could only shake her head.

    "Anyway, as I was saying, I have little influence on Raelle. She has more influence on me," added Mu Chenyan. "She is a very caring person. Although her words didn''t sound like it, she was truly worried about me. And I knew that as well."

    "You understand her well,"mented Xiang Weimin.

    "She isn''t a riddle you have to solve," said Mu Chenyan. "She had always been an open book even if she doesn''t seem like it. And trust me, it''s a hundred or even a thousand times more difficult to understand the meaning behind care, love, hate, like, dislike, pain, or any other emotion for her. She never had difficulties in her study. But she spent the better part of her life trying to understand the definition of normal."

    "She is anything but normal,"mented Xiang Wai.

    Mu Chenyan nodded proudly, "Of course, how can my Elle be normal? She is special! There isn''t a second one like her!"

    Perhaps, Mu Chenyan didn''t even realize it herself that she was the reason why Raelle never thought there was anything wrong with her being ''not normal'' in this world. She didn''t even realize what influence she really had in making Raelle who she was. Yes, Raelle had a lot of influence on Mu Chenyan but thetter had equal or more influence on the former as well.

    Because to Raelle, Mu Chenyan was the definition of family, love, care, and warmth. Something that was considered very precious to her. Because she knew no matter how weird she was, her Yanyan would still stand with her.

 Chapter 650 Older Than You!

    <h4>Chapter 650 Older Than You!</h4>

    "Aunt, do you realize that your eyes sparkle whenever you speak about Raelle?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    Mu Chenyan chuckled, "Really?" Of course, she won''t be able to see how she looked but she could imagine it. "You both are very dear to me. You''re my favorite niece and nephew in the whole world."

    "Raelle isn''t your favorite?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "She is," answered Mu Chenyan. "However, I have never looked at her as my niece. Maybe I did once upon a time, but now, I can''t look at her as just my niece. She is my everything. She is my family, my sunshine, my dose of bitter medicine to keep me sober, she is my warmth."

    "And she is your daughter?" added Xiang Wai with a raise of her brow.

    Mu Chenyan shook her head immediately, "Nah! Our roles are hard to define clearly. After all, who is the one acting like a mother and who is the one acting like a daughter is difficult to understand between us. That rtionship is blurry. I often get schooled by her like she is my mother but I have never really looked at her like she is my daughter. Heck! I don''t even know how to be a mother."

    "You''re being very modest,"mented Xiang Weimin.

    *Bang!*

    The three of them became alert to that loud noise but rxed when they noticed that it was only Yue Yue who pped her hand on the table. She tried to raise her head and with her eyes, she tried to use her hands to make hand signs to say something but got frustrated when she couldn''t coordinate her hands well in her drunken state. So, she mouthed something.

    Since only Mu Chenyan was close to her, only she understood what she said.

    "What is she saying?" asked Xiang Wai.

    Mu Chenyan cleared her throat before telling her, "She said, ''Mu Chenyan is anything but modest. When ites to boasting off, she''ll make you blush.''" Mu Chenyan shrugged after saying that, not at all feeling embarrassed, "My bestie isn''t wrong at all. That''s me. I still don''t know what modesty is. I still get on people''s nerves. Can''t help it."

    "Question!" Xiang Wai raised her hand to ask the question. "Aunt, howe Aunt Yue is your best friend?"

    "What do you mean?" asked Mu Chenyan in confusion.

    "What Wai means is that, she doesn''t seem like someone who would fit into your life," added Xiang Weimin. "She is elegant, sweet, kind, beautiful, and all the best things in life. But the same isn''t true for you. So, how do you two even get along with each other?"

    "Don''t you think my Yue Yue is cute?" asked Mu Chenyan as she pinched Yue Yue''s face and ced her face close to hers. Her fingers were poking Yue Yue''s flushed face while she tried to swat away her hands but failed miserably.

    This picture...

    Xiang Wai felt like she was looking at a bad wolf bullying the adorable and weak rabbit. She didn''t have to mention who was the bad wolf and who was the rabbit in this case. It was just too obvious.

    Yue Yue forced herself to open her eyes and red at Mu Chenyan who found her even cuter and squished her cheeks before rubbing her head. "Okay, okay. Go to sleep." Saying that she even put Yue Yue''s head on her shoulder and allowed her to find afortable ce to lie down.

    Anyone could see that Mu Chenyan was quite doting toward this best friend of hers. What a sight!

    "When did you fall for cute things?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "I never did," answered Mu Chenyan. "It''s just that this best friend of mine is very fragile. From the moment Iid my eyes on her, I had the urge to hide her under my wings and protect her from every single dark thing in the world."

    "And that''s what you have been doing?" asked Xiang Wai.

    Mu Chenyan nodded, "I''m trying my best. I wish I could take her pain away and feel the loneliness in her heart but I can''t do that. I''m not all that great after all." She pushed Yue Yue''s hair away from her face as she said, "I heard she had a beautiful voice. I wish I had met her earlier. I would have done everything to protect her and the voice that she so loved. If nothing else, my little Fai would have been able to hear his name from his mother''s mouth."

    "She wasn''t always like this?" this question came from Xiang Wai who had been quite interested in Yue Yue from the moment she learned of her connection with Zhai Yanjun and how that man behaved like a baby around her. He never opened up to anyone like he had been doing around this aunt of his.

    "No," answered Mu Chenyan. "She wasn''t born this way."

    "Then what happened?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Unfortunately, I don''t know what really happened," said Mu Chenyan. "I have a few conjectures but she isn''t willing to talk about it and clear my doubts. And I can''t bring myself to push her for answers either."

    "You really love her, eh?"

    Mu Chenyan smiled brightly, "Of course, she is my sister from another mother. How can I not love her? If I had such a sweet and pretty younger sister, I''d have smothered her with my love and brought the whole world to her feet!"

    "I''d definitely expect something like that from you," said Xiang Weimin.

    "So what? My Ge used to always give in to me. He used to say, it''s the job of elder brothers/sisters to protect and cherish their younger siblings. But at that time, I was the youngest one. So I only knew how to receive whatever he offered."

    "Ah!"

    Mu Chenyan held her cheek that Yue Yue pped in her stupor and tilted her head to mouth at Mu Chenyan, ''I''m older than you!''

 Chapter 651 Full Of Yourself

    <h4>Chapter 651 Full Of Yourself</h4>

    "What did she say?" asked Xiang Wai curiously.

    Mu Chenyan patted Yue Yue''s head like she was cating a child whose fur got ruffled and smiled at her niece saying, "Nothing important." Of course, she wasn''t gonna tell her niece and nephew that she was still the youngest one. Yue Yue was indeed older than her by a year or two but she liked topletely forget that fact.

    Besides, who asked her little friend to look so small and cuddly? It wasn''t her fault that she wasn''t able to see her as an older sister. Yue Yue will always be younger! Mu Chenyan wasn''t even up for a debate on this!

    She carefully ced her best friend on the sofa and got up saying, "I''m gonna go and ssh some water on my face. After that, we''ll go home because you both look quite sober now."

    Saying that Mu Chenyan made her towards the bathroom. She sshed cold water on her face and looked at her reflection in the mirror.

    [Ah! She was as beautiful as ever!]

    Blegh!

    [What beautiful?! She is handsome! HANDSOME!]

    She knocked herself on the head at that. How can she call herself beautiful? That wasn''t the right adjective for her! It never was and it never will be!

    She shed herself a smirk, "The great Mu Chenyan is and will always be handsome! I could even bend people in my youth. Who can question my handsomeness? No one!"

    Okay, the alcohol really got to her head.

    And no, by that it didn''t mean that alcohol was making her talk nonsense. It only meant that if she was sober, she''d have the same thoughts but she''d try to appear rather humble and modest about it. At least, she wouldn''t have acted like right now where she looked like a hooligan!

    Putting her hands in her pockets, she whistled a tune as she stepped out of thedies'' room but at the same time, the door of the men''s room also opened and the person who came out froze when his eyesid on Mu Chenyan''s face.

    Mu Chenyan was in her own world as she didn''t even notice anything or anyone around her.

    "Mu Chenyan?"

    She stopped in her track when she heard someone calling her name. She turned around to look at the man who called her with a confused look. If she waspletely sober, she wouldn''t have to expend this much energy on thinking about who this person was.

    But then again, it didn''t take her all that long right now either. She might be slightly slow but not to the point of having a memory loss.

    "Gu Ye?" she called out with a smile on her face.

    The man whom he called Gu Ye was stunned at his ce even now. He thought he was mistaken but he was sure once she turned around and looked at him with those unusually limpid eyes of hers. Eyes that always sucked his soul away.

    He didn''t reply immediately and Mu Chenyan didn''t seem impatient either. She was still smiling in her ruffian style, not caring about anything. She looked exactly the same as she was in his memory. That careless attitude, that frivolous style, and even that face were exactly the same. All the same!

    "It''s really you," he breathed out.

    Mu Chenyan chuckled at that, "Why? Did you think it was a ghost? I''m real! Very real!"

    "I can tell," he replied. Once he heard that tone of voice, he was even more certain it was her. Who else would talk like that? "You didn''t age at all." That was the only thought in his mind right now when he looked at her. She really aged like fine wine. It was unbelievable. He felt like he was brought back to his youth.

    She''d always look at him in the same way and smile just like that. Even if she was mad at him, she''d just smile like that. That was one of the reasons why he hated and equally loved that smile on her face. It instilled fear in him and made him want to lose himself to her as well.

    On the other hand, Mu Chenyan was also looking at him carefully. She could tell he changed. Now, he was dressed in a proper suit but his tie was missing right now. His hair wasn''t as casually styled as it used to be in their youth. He looked like an elite and someone of high status.

    But that was to be expected. He was an intelligent person. How could he stay normal? He was bound to rise above the masses.

    However, her nasty mouth couldn''t help but say, "But you look old."

    Gu Ye''s lips twitched when he heard that from her. He didn''t know why he was expecting a good reunion? Was she even capable of saying anything nice with that nasty personality of hers? Okay, maybe most of her nasty personality was a front but that dirty mouth was real. As real as it can be!

    In the end, he couldn''t bring himself to be mad at her. He only smiled at her helplessly, "Well, not everyone can be like Boss Mu!"

    Mu Chenyan guffawed. It was such a long time since someone called her ''Boss Mu''. Oh boy! That sounded so good and it brought back so many memories that she felt strange.

    "That''s true," she didn''t shy away from thatpliment. "I was always awesome. I still am and I always will be! I have it no other way."

    She didn''t care how she seemed right now. She was still treating Gu Ye as someone close to her. At least, he was once upon a time. No matter how distant they seemed right now. She didn''t know how else to treat him right now. There were decades between them. And those decades were hard to ovee all too sudden.

    "I see you''re still very full of yourself,"mented Gu Ye.

    "It wouldn''t be me if I acted in any other way," was her response.

 Chapter 652 Favorite Jerk

    <h4>Chapter 652 Favorite Jerk</h4>

    After that interaction, they both fell silent. Perhaps, they both weren''t certain how to continue this conversation. Several times Gu Ye parted his lips to say something but in the end, nothing came out of his mouth.

    Finally, he gathered enough courage to ask, "So, how have you been?"

    "Peachy," she replied. "And how are you? How is your married life?"

    Gu Ye''s smile slipped his face once she asked that question. He tried to find if there was something behind those words that could indicate that she was hurt but he was proven wrong. Of course, he was wrong. She never loved him.

    If it was before, this thought would have hurt him but now this thought only brought him relief. It was better this way. After all, his intention was never to hurt her. Even though his one-sided feelings did end up hurting her, it was never his intention and maybe she knew that and that''s why she never even said a word of me orint towards him. Or as always, she simply didn''t care at all.

    He couldn''t possibly know what was on her mind. It was difficult to understand her and her mind.

    "It''s good," he replied to her.

    "That''s good to know," she said.

    "What about you?" he asked.

    "Hm?"

    "How is your life?" he paused for a while before opening his mouth to say, "Are you ma-?" He couldn''t bring himself toplete that question.

    But Mu Chenyan had a knowing smile on her face as she replied, "My life is perfect. And no. I''m not married. You know, I still love my freedom a lot more."

    Gu Ye nodded his head in understanding, "So you never managed to find that someone whom you could love more than your freedom?"

    Mu Chenyan''s brows quirked up ever so slightly when she heard that question. Yes, those were her words when he asked her why she wasn''t willing to try being in a rtionship. She had said, she loved her freedom more. And if she ever found someone whom she could love more than her freedom, only then she''ll be willing to try out the thing called ''rtionship''. She didn''t think he''d still remember those words.

    "No, I did find someone I love more than my freedom," those words fell on Gu Ye like a bomb out of the blue. He for one never thought he''d hear something like that from her ever!

    Mu Chenyan could perceive the shock on his face but didn''t feel the need to exin that the one whom she loved more than her freedom was Raelle. She didn''t think they were still friends. No matter how strong a friendship once was, when the timees between that friendship, the line between friendship and strangers be quite hazy.

    They were both new people now after 2 decades. At most, they were somewhat familiar strangers but that wasn''t enough for her to mention anything about her life in detail. And neither was she interested in getting to know him all over again.

    "Are you here alone?" he chose not to continue that topic and asked another question.

    "No," she said. "I haven''t fallen to such a pathetic state where I''ll have toe to a ce like a nightclub all alone."

    "Right, what a weird question," he smiled self-deprecatingly. "How can Boss Mu not havepany?"

    Mu Chenyan grinned, "Indeed, I''m still people''s favorite. Even if I was a jerk, I was everyone''s favorite jerk on the block!"

    Gu Ye almost rolled his eyes at herment. Oh god! She still loved to brag! But actually, she was just stating facts no matter how much of a jerk she sounded like saying that herself.

    "Do you wanna join?" he asked. "We booked a private room here and you know most people. They''d love to see you again."

    Mu Chenyan waved her hand nonchntly, "I''m not in the mood for a reunion. Besides, tonight is all about my special people. Wouldn''t wanna ruin that."

    "You still have your priorities straight," hemented.

    "Can''t help it," she shrugged. "Now, I gotta go. I''ve been here for a long. But it was nice to see you again."

    "Was it?" he asked. "I heard you''ve been back for a while. If you really wanted, you could havee to see me."

    Mu Chenyan chuckled, "I didn''t feel the need to go and seek you out."

    "Your words are still very hurtful," he pointed out.

    "Well, I''m just that kind of a person," was her response as she pressed her lips together.

    As she turned to leave, he called out, "Chenyan!"

    "Hm?" she turned around to look at him again.

    "Can I have your contact details? I''ll invite you to my home for dinner with my family," he said.

    "Gu Ye, do you really think that I want to sit with your family for a meal?" she asked. "I think none of us will be able to eat anything."

    "That was a dumb suggestion," he smiled a bit sadly at her. "Then I hope I see you around."

    Mu Chenyan narrowed her eyes at him but didn''tment on that. She simply turned back to leave and raised her hand over her shoulder to say, "Goodbye, Gu Ye!"

    "How many times are you gonna say goodbye to me?" he muttered to himself as he looked at her receding back. He wouldn''t lie, he almost thought like he was transported back in time. The day hest saw her. She had also walked away from him in the same manner and said the exact same words.

    It took him twenty-five years to reach from that goodbye to this hello. He wondered how long the next hello was gonna take? Or whether it was ever gonnae or not? It was hard to say when she was involved.

    Shaking off these thoughts, he rubbed his hand on his face and went back to the private room that they had booked.

 Chapter 653 Lost All Hope

    <h4>Chapter 653 Lost All Hope</h4>

    Back at the dinner banquet...

    Raelle thought this night couldn''t get any more eventful but clearly, she was wrong. She just had to run into unnecessary people.

    But someone else was more scared to run into Raelle here. The mayor''s daughter, Le Xiaye was trying to hide from Raelle from the moment she saw her. She had been deeply traumatized by Raelle. Her arrogance had been squashed by her father. So, even though she still felt hateful towards Raelle, she didn''t dare evene into her view.

    After thest incident with Raelle, her father blocked her cards and even snatched her phone from her. She was even grounded for a month but it was thanks to her mother that the grounding period was reduced to only one week. However, her cards were still blocked, and even though she received her phone back, she wasn''t allowed to make contact with any of her friends because ording to her father, her friends were a bad influence on her.

    She was so mad at her father because of how he talked about her friends but she was helpless!

    She had to listen to her father''s tyranny if she wanted to live as the pampered little princess of her family. This incident made it clear to her that she wasn''t always at the top of her father''s list of priorities. He still valued his career a lot more.

    Raelle didn''t even wanna see this person but she still ran into her.

    Le Xiaye wanted to shout at Raelle but remembering her father''s threats, she didn''t dare to do so. No matter how unwilling she was, she obediently lowered her head around Raelle and said, "I''m sorry, President Raelle!"

    From the time of Raelle''s time on the trending list, she had finally learned about why her father was actually so scared of this woman. She was really not someone she could mess around with just because her father was a government official. And seeing her at this banquet, she was even more certain that she couldn''t mess with her.

    Raelle could hear the hint of sincerity in that apology that came out of nowhere. Not that it mattered to her but it seemed, the little princess'' arrogance had taken a blow.

    "Oh, what for?" asked Raelle.

    "For being rude to you," answered Le Xiaye. "I hope you forgive me for my impudence. I was the one to insult you, so please, don''t punish my father for my foolishness."

    Raelle didn''t mention how she wasn''t even behind Mayor Le''s predicaments these days. Because she was certain, it definitely had to do something with her. The real question was, who was pulling the strings from behind the scene? Was it her Yanyan or her dear husband? She''d like to believe, they both didn''t have a hand in this since they already knew she didn''t hold anything against the Mayor. But to say, she could extract herself from it all, it was hard to do so.

    Le Xiaye''s arrogance had really taken a blow these days when she noticed how tired her father looked every day. Even her mother had been losing her temper these days since she couldn''t mingle with her good friends from high society. It was only from her mother that she learned that someone was making things difficult for her father. He wasn''t being squeezed out of the office but it was obvious that someone wanted to work him to his bones!

    Raelle only hummed in response. When she saw Le Xiaye not moving, she asked, "Why are you still standing here? Go away now!"

    "So, you forgive me?" asked Le Xiaye.

    "I wouldn''t have even remembered who you were if I didn''t see you here," replied Raelle honestly. Did she really think the ce in her brain was rent-free? Why would she let such a small fry live in there? And she never intended to make things difficult for the Mayor as well.

    No matter how much of a failure he was as a father in disciplining his daughter, it really wasn''t his fault that his daughter didn''t have a brain.

    "Can''t you talk nicely?" asked Le Xiaye.

    "Who are you again?" asked Raelle. "And why am I supposed to waste my time talking nicely to you? In fact, I''m already being very nice!"

    Le Xiaye didn''t know how to continue this conversation. But she still figured out one thing, she seemed like a clown in Raelle''s eyes and that''s why she didn''t even want to bother with her. If she hadn''te here to make her presence known, she wouldn''t even remember her. That is to say, it meant that Raelle wasn''t behind her father''s troubles.

    She felt so helpless knowing she couldn''t do anything to help her father. She was just that useless. She lowered her head and walked away.

    "Some people haven''t lost all hope,"mented Raelle.

    "Are you talking about the Mayor''s daughter?" asked Cloe.

    "Yes," answered Raelle.

    Cloe frowned at that, "And what makes you say that?"

    "No matter how many screws shecks in her brain, she is certainly a good daughter," said Raelle. "She is willing to bow her head for the interests of her father." Taking a pause, she added, "Help me find out who is causing unnecessary trouble and stop it as well. Even I never intended to deal with the Mayor, why are they being nosy?"

    "I''ll look into it," answered Cloe, mentally noting down that she had to figure out the details of this matter after the banquet.

    "Raelle!"

    Raelle turned to look at Mrs. Chen and put on her best smile once again, "Oh, Mrs. Chen."

    "How are you feeling?" asked Mrs. Chen gently.

    "Thank you for your concern, Mrs. Chen. But I''m fine," said Raelle.

    Mrs. Chen looked relieved to hear that and added, "Thene with me. My husband is looking for you."

    "Sure," Raelle tagged along with her and came to where Mr. Chen was talking to an old couple with a look of respect on his face. He looked really humble and like a kid while talking to that old couple.

    "Raelle," called out Minister Chen. "Let me introduce you. Meet Elder Yue, he is my most respected elder and can even be considered my teacher."

 Chapter 654 Hell Called Marriage

    <h4>Chapter 654 Hell Called Marriage</h4>

    Being the polite and good mannered baby that Raelle was, she greeted this Elder Yue while her eyes didn''t leave his face even for a second. If Cloe didn''t know any better, she''d have thought her Chief was trying to bore a hole into Elder Yue''s face.

    While Minister Chen continued to talk endlessly, Raelle still attentively replied intermittently. Cloe didn''t know about Raelle, but she was definitely feeling a little embarrassed at how Minister Chen and his wife continued to praise Raelle so relentlessly. If she was praised so much, her head would already be in the clouds.

    But then again, the one being praised was Raelle. She was always down to earth. Her feet were just glued to the ground but she could blow you off to space with her kicks. Oh no, with her sharp tongue!

    It was quite clear to Cloe that Raelle wasn''t interested in this Elder Yue or his wife. But Raelle being Raelle couldn''t even walk away when elders were talking to her. And not only that, those lessons on manners wouldn''t allow her to be perfunctory either. Not like she had ever been a perfunctory person anyway.

    "Maybe I should post a moment on WeChat tonight,"mented Raelle making Cloe choke on water.

    Coughing, she apologized to the people around her and narrowed her eyes at Raelle, "Chief, what''s up?"

    "Nothing, I just have the perfect hashtag in mind," replied Raelle. "Just want to share it."

    "What is it?" she asked curiously.

    "#the_night_I_have_to_deal_with_people_I''d_rather_not_see_for_life," was Raelle answer.

    "That feels more like the caption of the story," said Cloe seriously.

    "Is it? Then what''s the hashtag?" asked Raelle as if she was genuinely interested in figuring out the answer to that question.

    "Forget it," Cloe''s lips twitched. Why wasn''t she even surprised that her boss couldn''t figure out the difference between caption and hashtag? Yes, Raelle was tech savvy but she was a social media noob! A person who hardly even bothered checking the moments on her WeChat, how would she know the difference between the two? "But Chief, is tonight really that bad?"

    "What do you think?" Raelle asked rhetorically.

    Cloe couldn''t possibly answer that. No matter how she thought about it, she couldn''t really answer either way.

    "Let me count it down for you," Raelle being the generous boss decided to help her slow assistant. "Let''s start with Tom, Dick, and Harry."

    Cloe chuckled when she heard her still using those names instead of the real names of thedies. She wondered what kind of color Ruan Meilin''s face be painted with if she got to know the nickname her boss chose for her.

    "And then add in my biological parents," added Raelle. "Tell me, do I look like I was dying to meet any of them?"

    "No," answered Cloe truthfully.

    "Exactly!" responded Raelle. "I could have definitely lived without seeing any of them." She took a pause and added, "And as if that wasn''t enough, now I even have to cordially greet Yue Shao and his wife, Fang Hua."

    Cloe''s brows knitted up when she heard thest sentence. "Chief, you know Elder Yue and his wife? Howe they didn''t seem to know you?"

    "They don''t need to know me," said Raelle. "Isn''t it enough that I know that husband and wife?"

    How could she not know that couple? Weren''t they the reason her family''s Yue Yue cried silently in the dark nights? Yes, they were none other than Yue Yue''s parents. Both biological parents!

    It seemed people didn''t need to have stepparents to learn the evils of the world. Your own parents have the ability to break you and crumble you. At least, that''s what this pair of husband and wife did. From what she heard, they actually loved their younger daughter. At least, this Elder Yue used to excessively dote on her but it still didn''t make him a minute to throw away that daughter and forget her like she never existed.

    Raelle''s eyes settled on Fang Hua who had her hand ced on her husband''s arm gently with a kind smile. This was the mother who gave birth to Yue Yue and yet for that step-daughter, she chose to give up on her own daughter.

    Suddenly, she thought of how simr she and Yue Yue''s fate was.

    But at the same time, it was different.

    For instance, Yue Yue had grown up in love, care, and a very peaceful family. That had made her grow up as someone who heavily depended on the love, care, and protection that her family provided her. That''s why when that shelter of the family was taken from her all too suddenly, she almost couldn''t cope with the change.

    But it was different for Raelle. She was abandoned from the very beginning. She never knew what her parents'' love, care, or even protection felt like. If she didn''t even know it, it can be said she had no point in missing it either.

    So she wondered what was worse? Not having it from the beginning or losing it when you were all trustful and dependant on it?

    "Cloe," she called out.

    "Yes?"

    "What do you think hurts more? Not having something from the start or losing it when you''re all too into it?"

    Cloe frowned at the question, "Chief, you''re smarter than me. You''d understand it better."

    "Maybe I just want to hear what you have to say about it?"

    Cloe nodded her head and gave her honest opinion, "It''s like this. When you don''t have it, you yearn for it. But that yearning is still bearable. However, once you had the taste of something and then you''re asked to leave it, that''s brutal. It''s like someone is trying to tear down a piece of your soul, heart, and even flesh. It hurts." She acted like she was actually going through this agony right now. But seeing Raelle''s nd reaction, she straightened up and continued, "Let''s take an example. If you have never drunk alcohol, you''d wanna have a taste of it. However, it wouldn''t be to the point of hallucinating and losing control. But once you get intoxicated with that alcohol, and start depending on it, that''s where the hell begins. Because you have already given the reins of your life to alcohol. Once an alcoholic is asked to stop drinking, it''s like asking for their life."

    "Your example is... something," that was the only thing Raelle managed to say.

    "Your assistant is funny."

    Raelle looked around and added, "And herees another addition to my list of people I can live without seeing."

    Zhai Kuijun''s lips twitched when he heard her say that right to his face. This youngdy really didn''t know how to hide her thoughts.

    "Who gave you the entry in here?" asked Raelle.

    Zhai Kuijun raised his brows at her, "Really? I believe you met my parents here. And you''re still asking why I am here? I am sure you even met your father here. But you just have to ask me that question?"

    "Granduncle and Grandaunt Zhai are reputable and respectable people," said Raelle.

    "And me?" Zhai Kuijun pointed at himself. "What about me? If they are reputable and respectable, what am I?"

    "You..." Raelle thought long and hard before saying, "I''m not sure. I don''t think we are familiar enough." She realized something and added, "That just reminded me, I only look at you as Yanjun''s father, when did we get so close that you''re talking so casually to me?"

    It only then did Zhai Kuijun also realized that he was actually talking very casually to her. So strange!

    "It must be because of your best friend," he muttered.

    "Because of Hyson?" asked Raelle. "Why? Just because he helped you once, you think because of that you got closer to me as well?"

    "Oh, you know about that?" Zhai Kuijun looked surprised.

    "There is nothing about my best friend that I don''t know about," she replied. "By the way, aren''t you gonna go and greet your father and mother-inw?"

    Zhai Kuijun also noticed the Yue couple in the crowd but just shrugged, "I don''t think they''d wanna see me right now?"

    "Why? Did Mr. Zhaimit a grave sin?"

    "If getting a divorce from their daughter is considered a sin, then yes, your honor, I''m a sinner!"

    Seeing him acting like this, she was suddenly reminded of Hyson''s dramatic antics. Oh boy! It seems the apple really doesn''t fall far from the tree. And here she thought this Zhai was normal but clearly, she was mistaken.

    She suddenly caught on to the key point in his words and asked, "You got divorced?"

    Zhai Kuijun grinned at her, "Yes. Kid, I really seem to like you. It''s sofortable talking to you."

    "Maybe the grief of divorce got to your head. You''re talking nonsense now!"

    Zhai Kuijun chuckled, "It has been years since Ist talked nonsense without a care in the world. I feel so relieved to be back."

    "Where are you back from?"

    "From the hell called marriage!"

 Chapter 655 Mama Bear

    <h4>Chapter 655 Mama Bear</h4>

    For the first time tonight, Raelle seemed interested and no one would have ever thought that her interest would be caught by Zhai Kuijun. Even Raelle never thought of that but it actually was happening.

    Before this moment, Raelle had actually never spared Zhai Kuijun a second nce if she wasn''t needed to do so. It wasn''t like she only got to know Zhai Kuijun because he was Zhai Yanjun''s father. She had already known him. Even if the knowledge only came from asionally seeing him at business conferences abroad.

    And from her understanding of him, he was a very depressed man. He was stern, uptight, and a little reserved. That was also the reason when she first learned about the connection between him and Yue Yue, she wondered how her family''s sweet Mama Yue fell in love with such a man? And where did Hyson''s dramatic personalitye from?

    Now, she didn''t have to think about it anymore. It was too obvious! Those dramatic genes were all thanks to Zhai Kuijun.

    Raelle gave him all her attention as she mentioned, "My Opa says it''s not nice to purposely ignore someone. Yes, your ex-father-inw might be upset with you but that is no reason to avoid him like this. What can he possibly do to you here? At most, he''ll re at you. I think you''re a big man. You can handle that re."

    See? That way of her talking. Zhai Kuijun somehow really liked it. And it wasn''t like he was talking to her for the very first time but tonight, he felt different from the inside. So, perhaps, that was really influencing his mindset.

    "Kid, you''re all about what your grandfather says," hemented. "Just like your father. He also loves to quote your father''s words at every turn of life." Shaking his head, he added, "It''s not that I don''t dare go over to greet him. It''s just that he is old and sick, I don''t want his blood pressure to shoot. What if I got him hospitalized? I don''t want that."

    "You seem to care about him."

    "Well, the one I divorced is their daughter. And no matter what kind of differences we had, it has nothing to do with them."

    "So, you don''t me them for not teaching their daughter well?"

    Zhai Kuijun shook his head, "No way. Why should I y the me game? It was I who was blind to not seeing the obvious ws in her even before the marriage. I can''t possibly me anyone else for that."

    Raelle gave him a thumbs-up, "You''re officially out of my unwanted people''s list."

    Zhai Kuijun gasped, "Oh my! Such an honor! How am I supposed to take in all this happiness all at once?"

    "Have you always been like this Mr. Zhai or does the divorce really do something to you?"

    Zhai Kuijun shrugged, "I was always like this. At least, once upon a time, I was. And you aren''t the only one surprised here. Even I am. I always thought it was difficult to talk to you but tonight, you seem very approachable."

    Raelle looked at Cloe and asked, "Is that the reason so many people had been approaching me tonight?"

    Cloe smiled sheepishly and nodded her head. It was indeed true that her boss looked rather approachable tonight, unlike her usual self. Even she couldn''t tell what was different about her. Maybe it was the white dress she wore that made her seem so innocent and adorable.

    She really looked like a white weak rabbit whom anyone could bully.

    Well, some have tried to bully but none could seed until now. She didn''t even realize that she just jinxed this night and her boss as well right at this moment.

    Zhai Kuijun said a few more things to Raelle that Cloe didn''t listen to because she was lost in her own world. But she did hear thest sentence, "Raelle,e over to our house sometime for dinner."

    "Why? You''re hosting a dinner party in celebration of your divorce?"

    Zhai Kuijun chuckled at that, "You can count it as one." He shook his head, "You have a good sense of humor."

    Seeing him leaving her side, Raelle muttered, "But I wasn''t even joking."

    Cloe almost rolled her eyes at this exchange. Of course, Raelle wasn''t joking but how would others know that she was being serious about something like celebrating a divorce? Well, most people wouldn''t celebrate such a thing. After all, it marked the end of someone''s rtionship, their years of the bond, and their memories.

    "President Raelle!"

    At this point, even Cloe wasn''t surprised that there was still someone looking for Raelle. But when she looked at Tang Hebe who had called out to Raelle, she couldn''t help raising her brow in interest.

    She definitely wasn''t expecting this person to approach Raelle.

    "Yes?" replied Raelle.

    Tang Hebe pursed her lips as she looked at Raelle and then her eyes moved to Cloe who was standing beside her. She still pushed herself to speak up, "Can we talk? Alone?"

    "No!" This response came from Cloe who stood in front of Raelle and blocked her with her body. She looked like a protective mama bear. It was actually funny how the same person who always cursed Raelle in her mind was now acting all so protective.

    "I..." Tang Hebe''s lips parted but nothing really came out after that one syble. She didn''t expect to be rejected so bluntly. No, she was expecting to be rejected but she thought the rejection would be subtle. Who knew Cloe wasn''t ying by the rules?

    Raelle tapped on Cloe''s shoulder from behind and said, "Thank you for your concern, Cloe! But I can take care of myself. You can just have fun. I''ll be right back."

    "But Chief..." Cloe looked unwilling to leave Raelle with Tang Hebe alone.

    Even if she had gained a new understanding of Tang Hebe, she still didn''t let her guard down. She was also bound by her habits.

 Chapter 656 Million Pieces

    <h4>Chapter 656 Million Pieces</h4>

    Since there were people everywhere in the hall, Raelle and Tang Hebe came out to the garden, looking for a silent and peaceful ce to talk. Well, it was Tang Hebe who was going to do the talking, Raelle was mostly just here to listen.

    Don''t ask her why she was interested in listening to what Tang Hebe had to say!

    "Sorry for calling you out like this," said Tang Hebe feeling a little embarrassed at the moment. She had thought of looking for Raelle on impulse after having thest face-to-face with Ruan Meilin. She couldn''t wait to tear apart that delusional woman who threatened the life of her son!

    She could take any kind of nonsense Ruan Meilin had. And she was even willing to bear it all in silence as well. But clearly, this Ruan Meilin was still taking her mild temper to be her weakness!

    These days, her only weakness was her son! But even if her son was her weakness, she was a mother. And mothers could never be weak! They were always a force to be reckoned with when it came to the safety of their child.

    Seeing how Tang Hebe was having difficulty forming her words, Raelle spoke up, "Don''t tell me you''re here to say, ''I am back now. You just wait for me to snatch Xian back from you. Ha! Ha! Ha!''"

    Tang Hebe''s lips twitched before she burst outughing when she heard Raelle speak like that. Especially thatst ''Ha! Ha! Ha!'' was too good! It was to the point that tears had brimmed into her eyes fromughing so much. But there wasn''t a change on Raelle''s face. Not even a single frown could be seen on her face.

    Even though Tang Hebeughed for so long that her body was shaking, Raelle was still patiently waiting for her to calm herself. And it was only when Tang Hebe looked at Raelle while wiping her tears she realized that Raelle already knew she didn''t n on taking Shui Xian from her. And neither was she here to make any ims on him. And yet she said those words just to lighten up her tightened nerves.

    It seems her anxiousness was too obvious to Raelle.

    And yes, her expressions weren''t hidden from Raelle. She might have be good at hiding her emotions, Raelle was even better at reading the things you''d try to hide. That''s why the moment Tang Hebe had called her out to talk, Raelle already figured out that Tang Hebe was scared and anxious. As for why? That she didn''t know at all.

    "Here I was told President Raelle only knows how to make people feel nervous," said Tang Hebe. "But it seems President Raelle also knows how to make someone feel calm."

    "I have talents that even I have yet to unearth," replied Raelle. "There is no surprise there."

    Tang Hebe smiled at her, "Indeed, you''re a whole treasure."

    "Thank you for thepliment," said Raelle. "I''m not just a treasure. I''m the rarest of the treasures." Tang Hebe had nothing to argue about that. Meanwhile, Raelle added, "Anyway, you should just call me Raelle. Neither are you my business partner nor are you, my employee. It doesn''t feel right to keep calling me President Raelle when I''m younger than you."

    "Are you trying to make it clear to me that since you''re young, Xian has forgotten all about the old me?" Tang Hebe couldn''t help teasing yfully.

    "Yes, he has," was Raelle''s honest and blunt answer which make Tang Hebe''s lips twitch once again.

    Oh my! Howe she didn''t know the infamous President Raelle had such a cute side?

    "Ouch!" Tang Hebe ced her hand on her chest as she feigned to be in pain. "Your honesty just broke my heart into million pieces."

    Raelle looked down at the grass carefully. Then she even turned on the shlight of her phone to look with scrutiny.

    "What are you doing?" asked Tang Hebe.

    "Looking for those million pieces of your heart," deadpanned Raelle. "Didn''t they fall down here?"

    Tang Hebe ced her hand over her mouth and burst outughing again.

    "Okay, you really need to stop," said Tang Hebe. "I can''tugh anymore. My stomach is hurting too much." She was panting already trying to catch her breath. That''s how much sheughed because of Raelle.

    It was actually interesting sightseeing how one elegantdy wasughing so hard while the other beauty just stood there under the moonlight acting like the perfect painting. A real work of art that was even hard to describe in words.

    "But I didn''t lie earlier," said Raelle. "Isn''t it human nature to forget the old and love the young? The freshness of the newness brings a new adventure to their life." She looked at Tang Hebe as she added, "You aren''t that different either. Didn''t you forget the old husband named Shui Xian and fell deeply for the young boy who is actually your son?"

    Tang Hebe''s eyes widened as she looked at Raelle in surprise.

    "How do you know about my son?" she asked in shock.

    "Heard about him from Shui Xian," said Raelle. She didn''t lie at all. She indeed only knew about Tang Hebe''s son from Shui Xian. Not like she had the interest to go into deeper details.

    "And you aren''t worried that my son would be a strain in your marriage?" asked Tang Hebe trying to figure out this strong and confident woman who stood before her. Really, she couldn''t even match the aura of someone like Raelle who was always brimming with self-confidence.

    "Why would he?" asked Raelle in return. "He has nothing to do with us."

    "So, you think he isn''t Shui Xian''s son?" Tang Hebe raised her brows at Raelle inquisitively. Anticipating to hear Raelle''s answer.

    "He isn''t," answered Raelle.

    "And why do you think so?"

    "Because my Xian said so," replied Raelle straightforwardly.

    Tang Hebe almost choked on air when she heard that reply. What did she mean that just because Shui Xian said it, she believed it? Was she that gullible or she have that much trust in Shui Xian?

    If it was thetter, then she certainly wasn''t a match of her.

 Chapter 657 Buzzed

    <h4>Chapter 657 Buzzed</h4>

    "You really trust him," said Tang Hebe.

    "I don''t allow people to be a part of my life unless I trust them," Raelle told her. "And Xian is my husband. If I don''t trust him then whom should I trust? You?" Tang Hebe didn''t get to say anything as Raelle continued, "Let me make it clear, I don''t trust you. Why? I don''t know you. Not at all."

    "Didn''t you hear about me from Xian?" she asked.

    "Do I have to ask my husband to tell me the story of his ex-wife? Because I never had any interest in that. Not even a little bit." Raelle looked toward the fountain that was in the garden and added, "Besides, even if I asked him, even he doesn''t know you."

    Tang Hebe looked surprised as she asked, "He doesn''t know me? Did he say that?"

    "He doesn''t have to," said Raelle. "If he really knew you, it wouldn''t have hurt him so much when you asked for a divorce. And if he knew you well, then he wouldn''t be asking himself what he did wrong to deserve what you did to him. He doesn''t need words to tell me anything. You might not know but I''m a very perceptive person. Some people even say, my perception is scary."

    Tang Hebe couldn''t possibly tell her why she asked for a divorce. She just couldn''t bring herself toe clean before not just Raelle but anyone. And if she had toe clean to someone then that person had to be Shui Xian. At the end of the day, he was the only one who deserved this truth the most.

    "You know, you saying that my son isn''t rted to Shui Xian actually makes me sound like a cheater."

    "Are you one?" asked Raelle. "Are you a cheater?"

    Tang Hebe lowered her eyes, "I am not. Do you believe it?"

    "I do," replied Raelle stunning Tang Hebe.

    "You do?" she asked in surprise.

    "Yes, I do," insisted Raelle.

    Tang Hebe went silent for a moment and could barely ask, "Why?" She wanted to hear an answer. Until now, whoever knew that she had a son either thought that her son was Shui Xian''s or that she cheated on him. Raelle had to be the very first person who didn''t seem to even be suspicious of her words.

    And just now, she was the one who said she didn''t even trust Tang Hebe, and yet here she was, actually trusting her when her own mother didn''t.

    "If you said you''re not a cheater, it''s my responsibility to believe your words," said Raelle. "That''s the least I can do. As for whether you''re lying or telling the truth, that''s entirely up to you."

    "You''re..." Tang Hebe couldn''t think of what to say. She couldn''t find the right word to describe what she thought about Raelle. She could only say, it was a very refreshing experience to meet someone like Raelle.

    "What did you want to say?" asked Raelle. "I''m pretty sure you didn''t bring me here to talk about your son or whether you''re a cheater or not."

    Tang Hebe took a deep breath and spoke up, "How much do you know about Ruan Meilin?"

    "Not much," answered Raelle. "But I do know that she needs some help. She is mentally unstable."

    "Do you know she is my cousin?" asked Tang Hebe.

    "I just learned it today," said Raelle. "I also learned how she has been trying hard to be like you."

    Tang Hebe snickered, "I don''t know why she doesn''t get tired of wearing such a mask."

    "Because when you wear a mask for too long, it slowly bes a part of you. And oftentimes, people can''t differentiate between the real and the mask."

    Tang Hebe nodded her head in agreement, "You''re right. Maybe she has also forgotten by now what or who she really is."

    "But a mask can''t hide who you are," added Raelle. "No matter what mask she wears, it can''t change the fact that her heart is harboring evil and malice. Her eyes can''t hide the darkness that she lives with."

    "Ruan Meilin has an obsessed with Shui Xian," said Tang Hebe.

    "I know."

    Tang Hebe nodded and continued, "I just want to warn you to be careful. She might look harmless but she isn''t. She is maniptive and a scheming person. She doesn''t mind hurting people or taking their lives as long as she can achieve her goal." She took a pause, "Do you know why Shui Xian has been keeping her by his side when he isn''t even interested in her?"

    "I think he owes her something," was Raelle''s response because she really didn''t know why Shui Xian kept such a clown around him. Even she thought it must be tiring for her husband to keep up with that delusional clown.

    "It''s because she saved Amiah''s life," told Tang Hebe. "I don''t think I need to tell you how much Shui Xian loves his one and only sister. He might not seem like he cares about her but he does. And it''s because of her that he is willing to bear Ruan Meilin for so long."

    Raelle didn''tment on that. Because she knew nothing about it. She hadn''t heard a word about it from Shui Xian. Not like she asked. She didn''t even take that Ruan Meilin seriously.

    "Why are you telling me this?" asked Raelle.

    "Because Shui Xian doesn''t know that the incident that happened with Amiah was orchestrated by Ruan Meilin. He was so focused on his raging emotions that he didn''t realize he became a pawn in her hands. She was the master of that y and she was the one acting as the savior as well. But Amiah fell for it. And because of her, Shui Xian also believed that Ruan Meilin did save his sister''s life." Tang Hebe paused and added, "I know my words are not all that trustworthy. But believe me, I''m not lying. She is crazy. I''m afraid she might do something else again. I just want to warn you to be careful."

    "I have always been a careful person," said Raelle. "But thanks for letting me know. I can tell you''re being sincere. However, what pushed you to tell me this? It isn''t your first day knowing this truth but you kept it to yourself for so long? So, why tell now?"

    "Because that bitch is threatening the life of my son!" Tang Hebe gritted her teeth in anger. "She is insane! I don''t trust her at all. It''s true I kept it to myself for a long time but it''s because I have no evidence. And I didn''t think Shui Xian would be willing to believe just my words after what happened between us."

    "Then do you think I''ll believe you?" asked Raelle.

    "No," she answered truthfully. "But you seem like someone who won''t shun my words either. You are a capable person. You must be able to find the truth and the evidence which I can''t with my abilities."

    Raelle had to say, this woman had a good understanding of her. Yes, she didn''t believe Tang Hebe''s words instantly but she didn''t immediately believe her either. She had to look for confirmation on her own before deciding anything. After all, she couldn''t allow her husband to be fooled by a delusional clown any longer.

    "I''ll look into this matter," said Raelle.

    "That''s good," Tang Hebe breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank you! Thank you for your time. I''m gonna take my leave now."

    She turned to go back inside while Raelle was still standing there, deep in thought. One couldn''t tell what was on her mind but she seemed to have her own thoughts. She took out her phone, wanting to contact Anna to tell her to look into this matter as soon as possible.

    Tang Hebe hadn''t gone far when she remembered she had something else to tell Raelle and turned around. But when she did, her eyes widened and her breath got caught in her throat.

    "RAELLE!" she shouted while running to her side immediately.

    Raelle had just looked up when she felt a push and her body was thrown away. She fell heavily to the ground feeling disoriented. Her head buzzed from the impact and she couldn''t make out what happened. She only heard the sound of something crashing. She shook her head and looked up.

    Right in front of her, Tang Hebey on the ground. A heavy flower poty broken by her side. Her head was bleeding as blood dripped down her forehead and blurred her vision. She felt so weak but she still opened her eyes to look toward Raelle who fell quite a distance away because of her strong push.

    Seeing Raelle she breathed a sigh of relief thinking she saved her. But instantly, her face paled even more.

    Raelle was sitting down on the ground looking at her without realizing that the lower part of her white gown was slowly getting drenched in blood. Realizing the possibility behind that blood, Tang Hebe almost lost her breath and her eyes rolled as she fainted.

 Chapter 658 Give You An Answer

    <h4>Chapter 658 Give You An Answer</h4>

    Everything happened so suddenly that it barely made any waves. Since the banquet was somewhat noisy with the live orchestra arrangement and the incident happened on the secluded side of the courtyard, it was almost impossible for anyone to notice anything.

    Raelle''s eyes were trying to focus but it was somewhat difficult with the blood loss and the pain in her stomach like someone was tearing her apart. Yes, she knew this was pain. She could definitely tell it. It wasn''t her first time going through such intense pain but it was definitely the first time, she felt it so strongly.

    Her breathing was getting difficult but she forced herself to stay awake and tried to move toward Tang Hebe who was lying in the pool of blood. Her body was still and it couldn''t even be told if she was still alive or not.

    On the other hand, Cloe was still notfortable leaving Raelle with Tang Hebe. So, she had waited and waited. When it had been over twenty minutes and she still saw no signs of both women, she got worried and decided to throw her Chief''s orders into the trash bin and ran to the garden. And when she did, she almost screamed in shock at the bloody sight before her.

    She watched how Raelle was trying to reach up to Tang Hebe''s lifeless body. Her pure white gown was stained in blood. It was a sight she would never be able to forget.

    "Chief!" Cloe rushed over to Raelle and held her shoulders to support her body.

    Seeing Cloe, Raelle stopped struggling and allowed her body to rx. Opening her mouth, she said, "Check up on her. She doesn''t look good."

    Cloe was in disbelief when she heard that order, "Chief, are you in the condition to even think about anyone else right now? Look at yourself!"

    Her heart was beating wildly when she saw so much blood. There wasn''t a single person in sight right now.

    Usually, Raelle''s bodyguards would be around. But tonight, they were at the banquet where the country''s important people were gathered, so the personal security teams of the guests were actually not allowed inside the venue. They had been arranged to have dinner at a detached building beside the courtyard.

    The security of the courtyard was already very high. But the ce Raelle and Tang Hebe came to happened to be beside the living quarters of Minister Chen''s family and that''s where the security team wasn''t active tonight since all the guests were in the hall.

    "See if she is alive," ordered Raelle, breathlessly. "Help her."

    With trembling hands, Cloe ced her fingers under Tang Hebe''s nose and felt a faint breath. That made her heart ease a little. But it was only a little. It didn''t help much. Using her shaky hands, she took out her phone wanting to contact Raelle''s bodyguards but before she could they came running over.

    "Missy!" Anna called out and crouched down beside Raelle to check up on her. She took her pulse and her eyes constricted. "Get the car, we need to take her to the hospital. She is losing too much blood."

    Earlier Raelle had been focused on contacting Anna when the incident happened. She had just dialed the number when she heard Tang Hebe calling out her name. Anna had already picked up the phone when she heard that shouting from the phone before she heard a crashing sound. Because of the push, Raelle dropped her phone and didn''t get to respond. And not hearing anything from Raelle, Anna was already sweating in worrying.

    She activated the location function to find the precise location of Raelle before taking the others with her.

    "Anna!"

    "Yes, Missy?"

    Raelle pointed at the pot that fell from above, "Find me who did that. And don''t tell me it fell from the wind."

    Anna''s eyes sharpened once she noticed that flowerpot, a bloodthirsty aura emanated from her body as she replied, "I''ll give you an answer for that, Missy!"

    She was approaching and condemning herself for not being able to do her job right. She should have kept Raelle in the range of her sight. Those were the orders! But since Raelle said there wasn''t a big deal with not having her security team beside her, Anna was helpless. Even she knew Raelle was capable of protecting herself in a dangerous situation.

    However, the situation that urred was bizarre and out of their expectations.

    "Aiden, carry Missy to the car," ordered Anna.

    Aiden walked to Raelle and wore gloves before bowing to apologize, "I''m sorry for the impudence, Missy!"

    Raelle only sucked in a sharp breath when he carried her, "I can''t possibly care about that right now." She looked at Cloe and said, "Call my husband. Don''t make a scene. We don''t wanna create a scene at this banquet. Arrange the best doctors for her." She was obviously talking about Tang Hebe. "You better save her." Then she looked at Anna and continued, "Find me the culprit and wait for me."

    "And while I''m waiting?" asked Anna.

    Raelle was on the verge of copse when she only managed to say, "Do whatever you like."

    Anna''s eyes burned with rage as she nodded, "As you wish."

    Cloe had known Anna since the time she had been with Raelle but she had to say, it was the first time, she was truly scared of this woman who always wore a serious but very amiable expression. Especially when she stood facing Raelle, she always had a gentle look on her face. But currently, she seemed scary. Really scary!

    "Chief, I''m only supposed to call your husband? What about the others? Should I call Miss Mu or not?"

    However, no one could answer that question for now. Since Raelle had already fainted when they put her and Tang Hebe in the car. Although they couldn''t do much to help Raelle, they still tried to provide some first aid to the unconscious Tang Hebe.

 Chapter 659 Got Into An Accident

    <h4>Chapter 659 Got Into An ident</h4>

    "Since Missy said to only call her husband, only call him," said Anna in the end.

    "But..." Cloe wanted to say that Mu Chenyan will kill her if she didn''t tell her about such a big thing.

    "You are worried about Miss Mu''s anger right now? Do you think Missy will go easy on you if you went against her orders?"

    Cloe didn''t dare think about it. That''s right. How could she forget that if one was the monster and the other was the devil incarnate?! She was stuck between a rock and a hard ce. But at this moment, she chose her loyalty to Raelle.

    Cloe contacted the hospital and arranged for everything while Anna was left at Minister Chen''s residence with two other members of her team to investigate the matter.

    ....

    Earlier in the evening, Shui Xian was still busy with work. Since the time he arrived, he had been working and hadn''t taken a rest even for a minute. He was eager to finish his work since he nned to go back home by tonight.

    As he sat in the meeting room, he felt really uneasy. Something was bothering him. He didn''t know what it was. He just knew that he had a stifling feeling. His chest felt so stuffy that he found it hard to breathe. He wanted to take the ss and drink some water but ended up knocking down the ss.

    As the ss fell to the floor and broke into pieces, Shui Xian''s heart was jolted.

    He stood up immediately. Everyone in the meeting room looked at him while he ordered, "Ma Jin, take over the meeting." Throwing those words over his shoulder, he ran out.

    Call him superstitious or whatever, because he was indeed one. If he believed the Koi fishes were the form of luck, then he definitely believed in misfortunes as well. For instance, the breaking of ss. It indicated that something was about to happen or something already happened. However, whichever one it was, he wasn''t feeling good about it.

    Even the universe can''t help giving you a sign when something is about to happen. Those were the words he strongly believed in. He still remembered that he also broke a ss on the day Tang Hebe had asked for a divorce.

    He booked a flight back home on his own and left all the people who apanied him on this trip here. He hade over his private jet but decided to take amercial flight back since he knew it''ll take time for the private jet to get the clearance from the air traffic control.

    All throughout the flight, he couldn''t sit still even for a moment.

    "Young man, will you stop it already?"

    Shui Xian was startled and looked at the passenger sitting beside him. It was a woman probably in her forties.

    The woman looked at his worried expression and said, "You know even if you keep shaking your leg so much, it won''t help! The flight can''t go any faster. So, calm down. Stop disturbing others as well."

    "I''m sorry," Shui Xian chose to apologize nicely. After all, even he knew his shaking must have disturbed her a lot. And she still bore it for an hour patiently.

    The woman sighed, "Forget it." She took a pause and added, "By the way, are you alright? Do you want some water?"

    Shui Xian shook his head and offered her a small smile. The woman didn''t say anything else and let him be. She just took a magazine and put it on her face as she leaned back to rest.

    Shui Xian sped his hands together in worry and prayed sincerely for everything to be alright. Even if all of this was just in his head, he didn''t give a damn! He''d rather be safe than sorry.

    It''s not like the universe has ever given him the wrong signals. So, he was still willing to believe that he wasn''t wrong. Not at all!

    As the flightnded and the passengers came out, Shui Xian also rushed out and turned on his phone. Hardly a minute had passed when his phone rang. Seeing that the call was from Cloe, his heart jumped. He had a bad premonition and it scared him.

    "Hello?"

    "Mr. Shui, you''ll have toe back. Chief got into an ident and we are taking her to the Hope Foundation Hospital right now."

    Shui Xian felt like his ears were buzzing and all that his brain registered was the fact that his wife got into an ident. He almost dropped his phone but taking a deep breath, he calmed down somewhat and asked, "How is she?"

    Cloe went silent and Shui Xian''s heart squeezed when she didn''t reply immediately. It meant the situation wasn''t good.

    "Okay. I''ll be right there," answered Shui Xian and hung up the phone. He rushed over to take a cab and bumped into the woman from earlier who sat beside him on the flight.

    "Watch it, young man!"

    "I''m sorry! But I''m in a hurry," he said.

    The woman didn''t say anything. Not because he said he was in a hurry but because he looked worse than before. Earlier, he only appeared worried. But right now, he looked like he was about to cry. Yes, cry! She was so startled by that fact that she didn''t say anything. The situation must be serious enough for a big man to react like this.

    And it wasn''t like she got hurt by that bump, there was no point harping on it.

    Shui Xian caught a cab and asked the driver to go faster. Since he came back all too suddenly, he didn''t even call back home to ask his driver toe and pick him up. He waspletely following his feeling toe back but who knew what he was worried about still happened. And of everything he could think about, it had to be his wife who got into an ident!

 Chapter 660 Iâ€™m Scared

    <h4>Chapter 660 I''m Scared</h4>

    Shui Xian managed to arrive at the hospital in 30 minutes. He even paid extra to the taxi driver just to reach the hospital as soon as possible. He looked terrible by the time he arrived at the hospital. His face had lost its color, his eyes were red and even his suit looked creased.

    When he found Cloe in the hallway, he went up to her. Looking at the blood on her clothes and her hands, Shui Xian''s heart dropped. He even forgot what he wanted to ask.

    "You''re here," Cloe looked at him incredulously. "Weren''t you out of the city?"

    "I just got back when I received your call," answered Shui Xian. "Where is she?"

    Cloe pointed towards the operating room. "Chief is inside."

    Shui Xian took a deep breath and asked, "How is she?"

    "I don''t know," answered Cloe, looking really worried. "The doctors didn''t say anything for now."

    "What happened?" he asked another question.

    "I don''t know about that either," she answered helplessly. And she wasn''t lying. She truly didn''t know anything. At least, she didn''t know all the details. All she saw were two injured people and lots of blood when she came out. As for how or what happened before she came, she had no idea regarding that.

    "Cloe!" Shui Xian''s eyes were ring at her right now for not being able to answer anything. Was she messing with him right now? Couldn''t she tell he had almost lost his soul at this point? Just considering the fact that there was so much blood on Cloe''s clothes, he didn''t even dare to imagine how Raelle was doing.

    It broke her heart if she even had a paper cut! And now... She actually bled so much when he wasn''t around. He punched the wall in frustration making his knuckles bleed.

    "Have you lost your mind?" asked Cloe. "Don''t you think I have seen enough blood for tonight? Will you please snap out of it?!"

    "How am I supposed to do that? My wife is in the operating room and you clearly don''t even know how she is doing. Hell, I don''t even know what''s wrong with her! How am I supposed to think clearly? Can you even me me for losing my mind?" Shui Xian shot back at her.

    Cloe was so mad at him for acting like this. She was scared already, okay! She was really scared even if she didn''t look like it right now. She was losing her mind. But deep down she also understood what Shui Xian was going through. He must be more scared than her. Even if he wasn''t at the scene, not knowing anything must have been a lot scarier.

    "Cloe!"

    Cloe looked over and found Cui Xukun walking toward her. Seeing him, Cloe lost whatever courage she had been maintaining and opened her arms to hug him tightly. And then, she started crying. Yes, she started crying like a baby who finally found a pir of support to lean on.

    She had been acting strong until now but she couldn''t do it once she saw her boyfriend. She had received Cui Xukun''s call when she was on the way to the hospital and she ended up telling him she was going to the hospital but she didn''t tell him anything else. Who knew he''d rush to the hospital immediately at midnight?

    Cui Xukun hugged her back and caressed her head as he asked, "Are you hurt? Tell me where you''re hurt, eh?"

    Cloe shook her head as she choked, "I''m not hurt."

    Shui Xian looked at them and raked his fingers through his hair. Obviously, he didn''t mean to make Cloe cry. He was just feeling so helpless and exasperated right now. Maybe he shouldn''t have shouted at her though. It''s not like Cloe was at fault here as well.

    Cui Xukun helped Cloe to a chair crouched down before her. He wiped her tears and asked, "If you''re not hurt, then why are you crying?"

    Cloe sniffled, "Because I''m scared." She didn''t hide from it at all as her tears continued to fall down like rain. "I''m not the one hurt but it''s Raelle. It''s my Chief who is hurt. I''m so scared right now." She held his hand and looked into his eyes with her teary ones, "Do you know, I call her a devil boss a million times but I never meant it. She is the best boss in the world. She is younger than me but she had always treated me like I was her younger sister instead. She always remembers my birthday and even if she says she won''t give me a day off, she''ll still offer me something even better. She gave me what I couldn''t give myself in 20 years. It was confidence! Without her, I''d never have confidence in myself. She is always protecting me. But tonight, I couldn''t do the same for her. I can''t do anything for her. And she is hurt now."

    She couldn''t speak for a minute as her tears fell even harder.

    "I have never seen her so weak since the time I have known her. Of course, I''m scared right now. She is the first person who made me realize what it was like to have a family who cared about you. Whenever I''m stuck in life, I look for her to show me the right way and she always does. Even with her sarcastic and hurtful words, she still managed to lighten up my world. She is someone I have always depended on because I know she''ll always be there for me. But for the very first time, today, I felt the fear of losing her."

    Cui Xukun patted her back, trying to soothe her. He let her finish before he passed her a handkerchief to wipe her face and told her, "First, you need to calm down. Nothing will happen to her." While saying that, his eyes drifted towards Shui Xian who also heard Cloe''s words and his state looked worse than before. If even his girlfriend was feeling so horrible, how could Shui Xian be any better?

 Chapter 661 Not Possible

    <h4>Chapter 661 Not Possible</h4>

    Shui Xian heard Cloe''s words and really thought he was a jerk for shouting at her. Obviously, she was also worried about Raelle but he just had to snap at her. He went to the bathroom and sshed cold water on his face repeatedly. He did it in a way that even his hair and shirt got wet but he didn''t seem to care at all.

    Pushing his hair back, he went back to the hallway. Realizing something, he asked, "Cloe, you didn''t inform anyone else about this?" He obviously won''t think that no one cared enough to show up. The only reason the hallways were so empty had to be the fact that no one knew about Raelle''s ident until now.

    Cloe was still sobbing silently but she still told him, "Chief''s order. She told me to only call her husband."

    "Oh," was the only thing Shui Xian said.

    "Your wife must have only wanted you here," added Cui Xukun.

    Shui Xian gave him a look, "It''s nothing like that. She just thinks I''m easier to handle than the rest. Besides, she is a principled person. Since it''s a responsibility of a wife to not hide things from her husband, she is definitely gonna tell me everything."

    Cui Xukun didn''t expect to hear such an answer.

    But Shui Xian wasn''t lying either. Indeed, Raelle would rather have to deal with Shui Xian than the others. Even he knew that once Mu Chenyan or Grandfather Xiang or even his own B¨¤ learned about Raelle''s ident, it''ll be a disaster. He couldn''t even imagine how they''d react.

    "Are you okay?" he asked Cloe who nodded softly. "Then can you please tell me everything you do know?"

    Cloe looked at the desperateness in his eyes and couldn''t refuse so she told him everything. Oh, aside from the fact that the other injured person on the scene was his ex-wife, Tang Hebe. She didn''t purposely omit this information though. She seemed to just be too focused on all the other details.

    "You mean this wasn''t actually an ident but it was caused intentionally?" he asked.

    "It seems so," she answered, "Chief already told Anna to find the culprit and by now, she must have found the culprit as well."

    "Where is Miss Anna?" he questioned.

    Cloe shook her head, "Don''t know. Even if I called, she won''t tell me. She only answers to two people, Chief and Miss Mu. She doesn''t even give a face to Elder Xiang. I don''t think she''ll tell you anything either. Besides, Chief warned her to keep it to herself and she''ll deal with it once she wakes up."

    As the door of the operating room opened, all of them turned to look at the doctor that walked out. The doctor pulled down his mask and asked, "Which one of you is with the patient?"

    Shui Xian came to the doctor and told him, "I am. I''m her husband. Doctor, how is my wife? Is she okay?"

    The doctor ced his hand on Shui Xian''s shoulder and said, "I''m sorry for your loss." Shui Xian''s heartbeat almost stopped when he heard that sentence.

    "No!" Shui Xian looked at the doctor with a hard gaze. "Nothing can happen to my wife."

    "Let me finish," said the doctor. "Your wife had an early miscarriage. The embryo was too small and the impact of the fall was too great. Especially since her pregnancy seemed to be quite unstable already. So, we couldn''t save it. I''m sorry for that."

    It was as if Shui Xian heard nothing of what the doctor said and asked, "Then what about my wife? Is she okay? Nothing is wrong with her right?"

    The doctor was actually surprised seeing how all his attention was on his wife''s health and nothing else. Even she felt like this husband really loved his wife and reassured him, "Rx, your wife is fine. She just lost some blood. She''ll be fine after the proper recuperation."

    "Doctor," Cloe called out to the doctor. "Are you saying that Raelle was pregnant?"

    Once Shui Xian learned that Raelle was fine, he finally rxed. But then he heard Cloe''s question and it finally registered in his mind what the doctor just told him earlier. Raelle had an early MISCARRIAGE! What did miscarriage mean? It meant she was pregnant!

    "Wait!" Shui Xian looked at the doctor uncertainly. "Are you sure that my wife was pregnant? How is that possible?"

    "Why isn''t it possible?" asked the doctor, seeing their reactions.

    "Because..." Shui Xian went quiet before saying, "We always use protection."

    "Was your wife on birth control?" asked the doctor.

    "No, I was worried it''ll harm her body so we only used condoms," answered Shui Xian.

    "Condoms are about 85% effective which means about 15 out of 100 people who used condoms as their only birth control method will get pregnant each year," told the doctor patiently.

    Shui Xian counted the days and said, "Her usual cycle is about 34 days. There are still 3 days before her periodes. She didn''t even miss a period. How can she be pregnant."

    The doctor didn''t know what to say to him. Was he really that naive or has he lost his mind right now?

    "Your wife had already been about 4 weeks pregnant. Although at this stage, you can''t detect the pregnancy through ultrasound scans, you can confirm it through a blood test. About 1/3 or 1/2 of all pregnancies end in miscarriage before a person misses a menstrual period or even knows they are pregnant." Seeing how silent Shui Xian was, the doctor sighed to herself, "We are gonna keep your wife under observation tonight. We''ll be shifting her to the ward,ter on, then you can meet her. And once you gather your emotions, pleasee to my office I have to discuss your wife''s condition with you."

    Shui Xian hardly heard what the doctor said just now. His feelings right now were soplicated that he didn''t know how to react to all this information.

 Chapter 662 Suit Yourself

    <h4>Chapter 662 Suit Yourself</h4>

    Cloe looked at Shui Xian whose whole body seemed to be shaking right now. It seemed as if he was about to fall any minute now. The doctor''s words left him cold and frozen. He was not expecting such a result.

    His wife was pregnant. No, the right way to say would be that they lost the baby before they knew anything about it.

    Cui Xukun went up to him and patted his shoulder, "Xian, I''m sorry to hear that but you need to stay strong right now. Look on the brighter side, your wife is fine. It''s nothing serious or life-threatening."

    Indeed, Shui Xian was actually very happy to know that his wife was alright. In fact, he was happier knowing that his wife was okay than being sad about losing their baby. His heart was feeling guilty for thinking this way but he still would rather have his wife with him than anything else. That might make him the worst father ever but he didn''t give a damn about that right now!

    Once he rxed, his body slid down the wall and he sat down on the floor feeling like he finally found his breath again.

    And as his mind rxed a little, only then did the grief of losing his child slowly creep into the depths of his heart, and yet here he was trying to disregard those feelings. Even if he said he was fine being the worst father for not being sad enough at the loss of his child, he wasn''t heartless. If anything, he was more sensitive than most people. So this fact actually left a very ufortable feeling settling into his heart.

    It was like someone shoved cotton down his throat, he couldn''t swallow it, and neither could he spit it out. Pulling up his legs, he hugged his knees and hid his face.

    All Cloe and Cui Xukun could see were his shaking shoulders indicating that he was crying right now. The tears he had been holding back since the time he learned about Raelle''s ident had finally found their way out and there was no stopping it now. However, it was difficult to tell whether the tears were of relief knowing that his Raelle was fine, or were these the tears of grief and loss that he was trying to not take seriously?

    Honestly speaking, he wouldn''t be able to answer that question.

    Cui Xukun wanted to go up to Shui Xian but Cloe held his arm and shook her head at him, telling him not to disturb Shui Xian right now. No matter what was the real reason behind those tears, she felt like Shui Xian needed to let his feelings out right now. If he didn''t, he might suffocate himself.

    After a while, Caleb from Raelle''s security team came up to Cloe who finally remembered that Raelle wasn''t the only patient she brought to the hospital tonight. She looked at Caleb and asked, "How is she doing?"

    Caleb shook his head, "The surgery is still going on. But I heard from the doctor that the situation isn''t looking very optimistic. Her condition is quite critical. The flower pot fell straight on her head. I think you should inform her family."

    "How would I know anything about her family?" questioned Cloe in confusion.

    "Cloe, what''s going on?" asked Cui Xukun as he looked at Caleb vigntly. But once Caleb looked back at him with those eyes that looked like bottomless pits, he was actually a bit startled. The heavy pressure around Caleb was no joke for Cui Xukun who was just awyer.

    Once Cui Xukun spoke up, that reminded Cloe about the connection he had with Tang Hebe, and then she even looked over at Shui Xian. She contemted over it before telling Caleb, "You should go back. Let me think about what to do."

    Caleb nodded and went back to the operating room where Tang Hebe''s surgery was going on.

    Cloe licked her lips before saying, "Actually, it seemed I forgot to mention something to you both." She rubbed her nose awkwardly before adding, "The person who was injured along with Chief is actually Miss Tang Hebe."

    Cui Xukun was dumbstruck while Shui Xian also looked up. Wiping his face, he stood up from the ground and came to Cloe, "What did you say? How is Tang Hebe involved in this?"

    "Although I didn''t see what happened, I assume that she was the one who saved Chief''s life by pushing her out of the way. But doing so, she was the one who received the heavy injuries. Her surgery is still going on in the next operating room. And we don''t know how she is doing." She took a pause and added, "The doctors told us to inform her family but I am not sure about what to do here."

    "Even if you call her family, no one wille," said Shui Xian. His voice sounded deeper than usual because of how he cried just now. But he didn''t seem to mind that he didn''t look like his perfect self right now and seemed to have allowed others to see his weak and vulnerable side. He didn''t mind it at all.

    "Then what should we do?" asked Cloe.

    "For now, let''s just pray her surgery is sessful," answered Cui Xukun.

    Shui Xian just stood silently at the side. He didn''tment about it again. There was so much on his mind that he felt like he was about to explode. Taking a deep breath, he told Cloe, "I''m going to see the doctor and discuss Raelle''s condition."

    "I''lle with you," said Cloe and tagged along with him. Of course, she wanted to be there and hear about everything from the doctor. How could she be at ease if she didn''t hear it?

    "Suit yourself," was Shui Xian''s response. He really didn''t care whether she came with him or not. For now, he hardly cared about anything that didn''t concern his wife. As for Tang Hebe, since her surgery wasn''t done yet, there was hardly anything he could do to help. So, it was better to keep himself upied and make it easier for his mind.

 Chapter 663 Never Learned

    <h4>Chapter 663 Never Learned</h4>

    Back at the dinner banquet, the ident didn''t even cause a ripple. It was like nothing ever happened at all. Everyone was happily oblivious to the fact that a small angel was gone before he could even open his eyes into this world. And another person was still fighting for her life in the surgery room.

    It didn''t take long for Anna and her team to lock on to the culprit. They first hacked into the security cameras and looked through the footage. But the footage they found was from the garden where Tang Hebe and Raelle were talking. And that''s how they saw the whole scene y out. They even saw the flower pot falling from above which put them all on edge.

    It was an undeniable fact that all of them cared way too much about Raelle. They had been around her for years. There was no way they protected her just because it was their job. It had been a long time since they stopped thinking that way. So, this matter was actually very personal to them right now.

    Sadly, they couldn''t find a camera that had recorded who threw the flower pot from the balcony above. And since it fell from the balcony of one of Minister Chen''s daughters, there couldn''t possibly be a camera inside.

    But they didn''t need it either.

    A walk around the dinner banquet and they already found the culprit based on her manners. Anna''s eyes narrowed once her eyes locked on Ruan Meilin''s figure.

    "Group leader, it is her," said Hailey with certainty and with rage burning in her eyes. "There are mud stains on her clothes and her hand is also injured probably from lifting that heavy flower pot. Since she seemed to have done it impulsively, she didn''t take any precautions. Her eyes are wandering around uneasily and she keeps looking out the window. It has to be her."

    "Get her then," ordered Anna. It''s not she was taking a blind shot either. If even Hailey could notice the guilty consciousness of Ruan Meilin, how could she not? How could Ruan Meilin hide her real feelings around these ex mercenaries who were used to ying with emotions and lives?

    The banquet wasing to an end when they lured Ruan Meilin outside before Hailey covered her mouth from behind and dragged her away. Of course, their movements couldn''t possibly go undetected when they weren''t even trying to hide properly in someone else''s territory.

    With guns pointed at them, a circle was formed around Anna, Hailey, and the two others from their team. Ruan Meilin was scared stiff from the moment she was caught but seeing the security guards, she found her courage and tried to escape from Hailey''s grasp. But how was it possible that a delicate little girl would be able to escape from Hailey''s grasp.

    "Isn''t it very disrespectful towards the host?"

    Anna looked up at Minister Chen who walked up to her and raised his question.

    "We have never learned manners," was Anna''s blunt answer. Not like she was lying. All of them were orphans who grew up in different organizations. Raised as killing machines. How many manners could they possibly have?

    "Miss Ruan is our family''s guest, I''m gonna ask you nicely to let her go," said Minister Chen acting like a kind person.

    Anna sneered at him, "And if I don''t?"

    "This will get dangerous," said Minister Chen.

    Haileyughed at him, "And do we look like we are afraid of danger? Bring it on!"

    Anna shot her short-tempered teammate before she faced Minister Chen, "Does Mr. Chen think we are being too nice by doing this quietly? Although my orders are to respect the host of the banquet and not do anything to make things noise, that doesn''t mean I''m afraid of this getting noisy. If anything, I''d love to make some noise!" She took a pause and added, "Mr. Chen should decide what is important to you. Do you want to offend the Xiang family and the Shui family by saving this person? Or would you like to sit this one out?"

    "Is everything alright, Mr. Chen?"

    Minister Chen looked over and found Xiang Hulin walking over. There was no way that General Xiang''s soldiers didn''t notice thismotion. So, how could he not be here? But once he looked at Anna, he paused. He felt like she looked familiar.

    Minister Chen immediately asked, "General, would you like to tell me how my family''s guest offended your Xiang family?"

    Xiang Hulin raised his brow and then looked at Ruan Meilin who was still in Hailey''s hands. She looked like a small doll whose life was being controlled by Hailey. Xiang Hulin wasn''t blind, he could tell that whether it was Hailey or Anna, both had a particr air around them. And since this involved his family...

    "You work for Chenyan?" he asked.

    "Yes," answered Anna.

    "Team leader, why are we wasting time? Can''t we just get this over with? I don''t think these people are our match. Even their guns are outdated!"

    Anna red at Hailey who was really impatient.

    "What''s going on?" asked xiang Hulin.

    Although Anna wasn''t as good-natured as well, she still knew whom she could offend and whom she couldn''t. She certainly knew the identity of Xiang Hulin and she didn''t think either of her bosses would like it if she ended up doing something wrong here. "Missy... I mean, Raellle Xiang''s orders. I have to take this woman with me. General, are you sure you want to stop me right now?" She then turned to Minister Chen, "And Mr. Chen, do you think the Xiang family will let you get off the hook so easily? Our family''s Missy almost lost her life in your house. I don''t think this fact will settle well with either Elder Xiang or Miss Mu Chenyan."

    Xiang Hulin''s eyes widened as he asked, "What happened to Raelle?"

    "I can''t tell you that," said Anna. "Orders. I can''t disobey!"

    Xiang Hulin was feeling restless knowing something happened to Raelle but he couldn''t get anything out of Anna''s mouth. He could tell she was a tight-lipped person and her orders seemed to be everything to her. Not like he had a right to know anything.

    His eyes bore into Ruan Meilin as he said, "You can take her away." He didn''t know what did this woman do but he was certain his daughter wasn''t someone who would like to make a scene for no reason. Besides, if this woman was behind whatever happened to his daughter, he''d love to skin her alive as well.

    "General," Minister Chen tried to speak up but Xiang Hulin gave him a look.

    Anna nodded at Xiang Hulin courteously and turned to leave. They pushed Ruan Meilin into the van and drove away. Meanwhile, Xiang Hulin red at Minister Chen and said, "You better think about what you''re gonna do. My father or my sister isn''t someone you''d be able to handle just because you''re a member of the district council."

    Minister Chen was scared to hear that. He had nothing to do with Ruan Meilin. He was purely acting like a host who didn''t want anything to happen to his guests. Who knew he seemed to have touched the ho''s nest. Was he someone who could deal with the Xiang family even with his background? The answer was no!

    And his bigger concern was thest descendant of the Mu''s family main branch, Mu Chenyan. That devil was really not someone he could handle!

    Inside the van, Ruan Meilin was still struggling to try to shout and bite and whatnot. As Hailey moved her hand away from her mouth, she shouted, "This is kidnapping! This is illegal!"

    Anna looked at her, "And does it seem like it''s our first time doing something illegal? Let me break it down to you, we aren''t really nice people, to begin with. If you loved your life, you shouldn''t have designs of our family''s Missy. We are only nice until you''re nice to our family''s Missy. Once you be hostile towards her, we be your worst nightmares."

    Ruan Meilin shuddered under her gaze and wanted to shout for help. But before she could, Hailey threw a hand chop behind her neck, making her unconscious.

    "Ah! She is too loud! Got on my nerve!" She looked at Anna and asked, "Team leader, did you hear anything from the hospital? How is Missy?"

    Anna turned off her phone''s screen as her jaw tensed, "Missy had a miscarriage."

    "WHAT?!" Hailey eximed and then her hands were wrapped around Ruan Meilin''s neck wanting to strangle her. But before that, Anna held her back.

    "Wouldn''t be too nice and easy of a death?" asked Anna.

    Only then did, Hailey dropped her hands but her anger didn''t die down. "I want to burn her alive."

    "You can do whatever you want as long as you keep her alive for Missy," was Anna''s answer with a sharp glint in her eyes.

 Chapter 664 Serve The Country

    <h4>Chapter 664 Serve The Country</h4>

    Xiang Hulin was shaking from anger. He looked at the soldiers around and said, "Find out what happened!"

    "Yes, General!"

    Once again his daughter got hurt while he was around! Deep down he even had a thought that he was the real problem. He only got to meet his daughter for the first time and she got hurt again.

    Everyone might have thought that he was only following his mother''sst wish for all those years. But that was only a part of the truth. The biggest reason why he couldn''t bring himself toe before Raelle was his guilt. More than anything, the strongest feeling he had towards Raelle was guilt. It was undeniable that he felt guilty whenever he thought about her.

    As a father, he couldn''t even protect his daughter. But that was something he had to live with. He had to live with the fact that he wronged his daughter. He couldn''t protect her. No matter how difficult it was, he had to live with it.

    "General!"

    Xiang Hulin looked at the soldier who called him and took the tab he passed him.

    "We looked through all the surveince footage but couldn''t find anything. The footage we were looking for had been deleted. That''s why it took a while to recover it."

    "Have you recovered it?"

    "Yes!"

    "Then just let me see it," said Xiang Hulin and clicked on the tab. He yed the video and his jaw tensed once he saw the video. Seeing all that blood, his heart chilled. His hands clenched around the tablet so tightly that cracks appeared on the screen.

    "General Xiang..."

    It was only after he heard someone calling him that he snapped out of it. He threw the tablet back to the soldier beside him and took deep breaths to calm himself down. But he wasn''t able to extinguish this fire burning in his heart right now. And he so wanted to pull everyone else into those mes as well.

    "Do you have any orders?" asked the soldier tentatively as he observed the dark expressions on the General''s face. He looked scary. Scarier than usual.

    "Go and find out how is my daughter," said Xiang Hulin. "And give me the details of her condition."

    "Yes, sir!"

    The soldier thought he heard wrong. Howe the General only asked about his daughter''s health? Why didn''t he instruct them to find the culprit or do anything to avenge his daughter?

    Although the soldier was feeling confused, he couldn''t find the answer on his own. And Xiang Hulin definitely won''t give him the answers he wanted either.

    It wasn''t like Xiang Hulin didn''t want to avenge his daughter but he knew he couldn''t do it. It was only after thinking for a while did he recall the identity of Anna. An SSS rank mercenary who was even worse than an assassin. She was once on the wanted list on the ck market with a high bounty on her head.

    He was suddenly curious to know how his dear sister, Mu Chenyna managed to tame someone like that? Was it even possible to tame someone who only grew up knowing the taste of blood? He wasn''t sure but he was certain about one thing. If anyone could do it, it had to be his family''s Mu Chenyan.

    The reason why he couldn''t act recklessly was that he was a General. He was bound by militaryws. He couldn''t go against them. Even his own father won''t go against his principles. But Mu Chenyan was different. She hated being bound to rules. That was the reason why she never stayed in one ce for long. She couldn''t give up her freedom.

    And since she was the rule breaker, only she was able to avenge his daughter with her ruthless means. As he recalled the look on Anna and the three people who followed her, he was certain that none of them were kind-hearted. It was for sure that they''d be able to torture Ruan Meilin in a way that wasn''t possible for him to do so given his position.

    "Hulin!"

    Xiang Hulin didn''t even look at Zhai Kuijun who found him while leaving the banquet. cing his arm around his shoulder, he said, "Friend, I didn''t even see you inside. Were you hiding here?" When Xiang Hulin didn''t reply, Zhai Kuijun frowned, "Hey! What''s wrong with you? Why does it seem like you want to murder someone?"

    "Because I do want to," answered Xiang Hulin straightforwardly.

    "Even if you''re a general, you can''t kill people however you want," said Zhai Kuijun. "As a soldier, your job is to protect people. If you started killing them, you won''t be called a savior any longer."

    "I have been a savior for far too long," was Xiang Hulin''s reply. "I gave up too much to save this country and its people. But in the process, I have lost everything. Including my own children. So,tely, I''ve been wondering if it was all worth it?"

    Zhai Kuijun didn''t know how to reply to that question. Perhaps, there wasn''t a right answer to that question at all. He patted his shoulder, "Hulin, soldiers have to make sacrifices. They lose the right to put their own feelings above everything. They have to put the country above everything. It''s an inevitable sacrifice."

    "I know," said Xiang Hulin. He could only sigh to himself. It wasn''t like he didn''t know that. He knew what he was getting into when he made his choice to be a soldier. Perhaps, when he first joined the army, it was only because of the influence of his bloodline and the legacy of his family. However, it wasn''t the same after all these years.

    He could never be a good father but he didn''t want to be a horrible person as well. At least, for now, his children were proud of him.

    He truly lost the right to put his feelings above everything once he decided to serve the country and its people.

 Chapter 665 Happy To Fool

    <h4>Chapter 665 Happy To Fool</h4>

    "To conclude it all, I''ll say your wife will be experiencing some physical and emotional changes during this period. It is a very sensitive time for her," said the doctor while Shui Xian listened attentively. "Women tend to be emotionally drained after such an experience and some also start feeling like a failure. A sense of guilt is can''t be overlooked as well since it can push them into depression."

    Shui Xian nodded his head while mentally noting down everything the doctor told him.

    The doctor had been observing Shui Xian since the time, he walked inside and couldn''t help saying, "And the same goes for you, Mr. Shui."

    "Huh?" Shui Xian looked at her incredulously.

    "A miscarriage isn''t something only a mother has to go through, a father is often left more broken emotionally and spiritually. In fact, this often causes a distance to appear between the couple and the rtionship gets strained." She took her time to add, "I know you must be feeling like you want to fix it but remember, not everything can be fixed. Especially a miscarriage. It can''t be undone. Only time heals the scar of the loss of embryonic life. I know you''re feeling hopeless and powerless but don''t let your sadness get the best of you."

    Shui Xian looked at her and put on a smile as he said, "I understand what you''re saying, doctor. You don''t need to tell me all this. I know I have to support my wife for a period of time and just be with her."

    The doctor nodded at him.

    Actually, after hearing all that Shui Xian was even more worried about Raelle. Even Cloe noticed it when they walked out of the doctor''s office.

    "Are you okay?" she asked.

    Shui Xian shook his head in response. "You know since the time I met her, I''ve always found it fascinating how her feelings seemed to be different. But at the same time, I was always curious about what kind of emotions she was capable of. And if she ever got to show emotion, what would I like to see?" He sniffled as he added, "But right now, I really pray that she doesn''t feel anything. I don''t want the first emotion she feels to be a negative one. I really don''t. Even if there is any emotion she has to learn, I hope that is happiness. Yes, happiness. I only want her to be happy. And even if that is the only emotion she understands in this life, I''d be okay with that."

    "Would you really be okay? Even if she doesn''t learn to love you?" asked Cloe curiously.

    Shui Xian looked at her Cloe and told her, "My Raelle loves me. She loves me a lot."

    "Oh? What''s with that tone?" asked Cloe. "Are you that sure she loves you? How do you know that?"

    "I just do," he replied stubbornly.

    Cloe wanted to distract him a little so she also stubbornly retorted, "Maybe you''re just fooling yourself."

    "Hey! How can you even say that?"

    Cloe shrugged, "Did I say anything wrong? It''s not like my Chief ever told you she loves you." She was certain of that fact even if she hadn''t heard anything regarding this from Raelle.

    "So what if I''m fooling myself?" was Shui Xian''s response. "I''d be happy to fool myself for life!"

    "Tsk! You''re really something,"mented Cloe.

    Both of them walked toward the operating room where Tang Hebe was since they were allowed to see Raelle for now.

    As they came closer to the operating room, Cloe said, "I didn''t think your ex... Cough! I mean Miss Tang Hebe would risk her own life to protect Chief."

    "It''s not like she is an evil and vicious person," said Shui Xian.

    "She isn''t?" asked Cloe.

    "She never had been," replied Shui Xian. "Her biggest weakness in life had been her kindness. She had always been so kind that it made her seem like a fool sometimes. But that didn''t stop her from being a fool. Oh, I mean, kind."

    "And here I thought you must have hated her," sighed Cloe.

    "I don''t have a reason strong enough to hate her," said Shui Xian. "Now, I can''t even be angry with her. No matter what the results are, she saved the life of my wife. If anything, I suddenly feel like I owe her now."

    Cloe understood those words very well. Indeed, it''s not like Tang Hebe knew that Raelle was pregnant. In fact, none of them knew that. Tang Hebe only pushed Raelle to save her life and she did save her. Otherwise, if that flower pot had fallen on Raelle then the one fighting for her life on the operating table would have been Raelle.

    Tang Hebe''s surgery continued for 4 four hours and only then did the door opened and the doctor stepped out. Looking at the people waiting outside, he questioned, "Are you the patient''s family?"

    All of them looked at each other. Shui Xian and Cui Xukun were looking at each other while Cloe was looking at the two of them. Finally, both Shui Xian and Cui Xukun just shook their heads and said, "No, but she is a friend."

    "What about the patient''s family?" the doctor inquired.

    "Well, it''s a littleplicated," replied Cui Xukun.

    The doctor didn''t say anything about that. Instead, he told them, "The surgery has been sessful. However, the patient has lost too much blood. She is quite frail now and needs proper care to recover sooner." After that, the doctor briefed them about Tang Hebe''s condition.

    But all of them rxed at once knowing that Tang Hebe was saved. Their breaths had been hanging in their throats until now. Especially Shui Xian who didn''t know how he was supposed to react or feel about this. He obviously didn''t want anything to happen to Tang Hebe. If nothing else, she saved Raelle''s life. He wouldn''t be able to live with the burden if anything happened to Tang Hebe.

 Chapter 666 Leg Accessory

    <h4>Chapter 666 Leg essory</h4>

    After a night of observation, Shui Xian was finally allowed to see Raelle who had already woken up. But standing before the door of her ward, Shui Xian was frozen. He so wanted to see her but at the same time, he couldn''t bring himself to walk inside. He didn''t know what he was supposed to do in this situation.

    He took deep breaths and finally, his need to see Raelle overwhelmed all other emotions he was going through right now. He pushed open the door and walked in. He closed the door behind him and turned.

    Raelle was in a halfid position when she heard the door opening, she looked over. And she finally saw the person she really wanted to see right now. From the moment, she woke up, she was only seeing the faces of doctors and nurses. And needless to say, she didn''t really like it. However, when Shui Xian''s eyes met hers, she noticed how he stiffened and wasn''t even moving from his position.

    It was as if he was stuck on that spot, looking at her.

    She didn''t like this hesitation she saw in his eyes. She didn''t like it at all. It was foreign to her since from the time she knew Shui Xian, he never had any hesitation facing her. And from the time he started developing feelings for her, he had be a lot clingier as well. How could she be suddenly used to this hesitation she saw?

    Lifting up her hand, she hooked her finger and beckoned him closer.

    Shui Xian lowered his eyes and walked to her side. Raelle held his hand and looked up at him as she questioned, "Hubby, did I do something wrong?"

    Shui Xian''s heart shook once he heard that question and looked up to meet her eyes. Although her eyes were as nk as ever, he could tell she was genuinely wondering about the question she just asked. He blinked at her and sat by her side on the bed while shaking his head.

    "What? No way," he said hurriedly. "How is it even possible? My baby is never wrong."

    "Then why does it seem like you don''t wanna see me?" she asked.

    Shui Xian squeezed her hand saying, "If I don''t see, I can''t even breathe."

    "Cheesy!" shemented making Shui Xian chuckle softly.

    "But you already know your husband is cheesy," he pinched her nose gently. "And this cheesy husband is also exclusively yours. There is no return policy as well. You gotta live with this cheesy husband."

    "Who said I wanted to exchange?"

    Shui Xian continued to smile at her and caressed her hair lovingly and ever so gently. "Don''t get hurt. It scares me."

    "I''m sorry," said Raelle. "I should have taken better care of myself."

    Shui Xian shook his head at her, "Who said you need to apologize? If anything, I should be saying sorry for not being able to take care of you. It''s my responsibility to protect you but I couldn''t do it. I''m sorry."

    "But it''s not like you are my leg essory," said Raelle. "Why would you be stuck to me all the time?"

    Shui Xian nodded thoughtfully, "Wifey, are you missing a leg essory? I don''t mind being one."

    Raelle poked his cheek making him raise his brows as she said, "No. I don''t want that. You need to understand that you can''t protect me forever."

    "But I can try," he said. He licked his lips and asked, "Did the doctors tell you?"

    Raelle nodded her head at him, "They did. They said I had a miscarriage. That statement just sank into my head and I realized that since I had a miscarriage that means I actually had a little life growing inside of me and I didn''t even know that. No wonder Yanyan says I don''t know how to take care of myself."

    "It''s not your fault," he said. "It was too early to notice."

    Raelle shook her head, "No but hubby, there were signs. The doctor said each woman is different. Some women don''t get the signs until the 6-8th week but some start as early as the 2nd week. I knew my body was going through some change but I didn''t pay attention to it."

    If even now she couldn''t notice all the strange things she had been going through then she''d be really dense. So, it wasn''t like she was suffering from some illness. Those signs were of pregnancy. It''s just that, the signs began too early for her.

    And as the doctor said, her pregnancy was already unstable. How could it not be when she was running around that much? All those heavy exercises like horseback riding, and ying basketball were obviously not something that''d help her pregnancy. And she even drank wine and champagne during this period of time like any other time.

    It can be said that pregnancy never even crossed Raelle''s mind all this time. It just didn''t!

    She might be a walking encyclopedia but she didn''t know anything about pregnancy or pregnant women. She never even saw anyone close to her going through the period of pregnancy as well. And she didn''t feel the need to read about it as well since Shui Xian said he was in no hurry to have a child.

    Shui Xian took a deep breath and patted her head, "Don''t think about it. You need to rest." He didn''t know what else he could say. He truly didn''t think she was at fault even if she said there were signs. He knew she wouldn''t be able to tell.

    Raelle looked into his eyes for a long while in silence but eventually worded out her thoughts, "Xian, we lost our child."

    Shui Xian closed his eyes as his body stiffened once he heard those words. He knew that. He had been trying to avoid thinking about it and talking about it, especially with her but he also knew he couldn''t avoid this topic.

 Chapter 667 Empty

    <h4>Chapter 667 Empty</h4>

    Shui Xian was feeling so choked up right now. He felt like crying all over again. So, he pulled her into his arms and let his tears fall freely. He didn''t want to break down in front of Raelle but he couldn''t help it either.

    With his face buried in her neck, he said, "Yes, we did lose our child."

    He just realized that even if he didn''t bring up the topic, he couldn''t change the reality and he couldn''t possibly hide from this reality either. It wasn''t possible to do so. Raelle wasn''t the kind of a person to keep it inside. She liked to put all her cards on the table. She was just that transparent about her thoughts.

    Raelle let him hug her. She even could tell he was crying when his hot tears touched her skin. It was no secret to her that her husband was an emotional person. How could something like this not affect him? Raelle lifted her arm to hug him back and even patted his back softly as she told him honestly, "I''m feeling empty."

    Shui Xian''s breath was stuck in his throat.

    "It''s like I lost something," she added in a low voice. "I don''t like this feeling."

    Shui Xian felt like his heart was being pricked right now. How could he not feel this way? It was the first time she used a word to describe what she was feeling but in the end, it was emptiness. His tears fell harder as his arms tightened around her. He suddenly felt like she had be frail in just one night.

    It hurt him to know that she was hurting but there was something even worse, she couldn''t even word out her grief in the right way. Because she didn''t know how to do it.

    Shui Xian was startled when he felt something wet on his shoulder and pulled away from her. As he looked at her face, his eyes widened in shock.

    There were tears running down Raelle''s face. Yes, tears!

    He almost felt like he was hallucinating but the touch of her burning hot tears on his skin was real and the way that fire burned his heart was real as well. Yes, he was once curious to know if she ever cried but he didn''t want her to cry. He didn''t want her to ever cry.

    Shui Xian cupped her face and wiped her tears, "Baby, I know that this feeling of emptiness is not really good. But I promise, I''ll do anything and everything to fill this emptiness you''re feeling. So, please don''t cry. I''m always here for you and with you. That won''t ever change."

    "Who is crying?" she retorted. "It''s your fault. It''s because you''re crying that my eyes started leaking."

    Shui Xian''s lips tugged up slightly as he repeated, "Leaking? Those are tears! Not water that is leaking."

    "But doesn''t the tears also leak from the eyes?" asked Raelle. "So, it''s the same thing, my dumb husband."

    Shui Xian''s thumb pad continued to stroke against the soft skin of her cheek as he nodded, "Hmm... I''m obviously dumb. How can I be as smart as my wife?"

    "It''s okay. Only one smart person is enough in a marriage," said Raelle as she sniffled. "Also, who told you to call yourself dumb? Only I should do that! It''s my privilege of being your wife."

    Shui Xian ced his forehead against hers as he hummed, "Yes, it''s your privilege." He took a pause before asking, "Did it hurt?"

    "It did," she told him and Shui Xian felt like she wasining to him. "It really hurt. So much that I teared up."

    "I''m sorry," he said.

    "What are you sorry for again?" she asked.

    "I should have been there," was his reply. "With you."

    "What could have you done if you had been there?" she asked straightforwardly. "It''s not like you could take my pain."

    "But I could have offered you moral support," said Shui Xian yfully.

    "Who needs moral support?" asked Raelle. She opened her arms, "I want more hugs."

    Shui Xian''s heart melted and took her into his arms again.

    "Xian!"

    "Hm?"

    "How are you feeling?"

    Shui Xian didn''t expect that question from her. Wasn''t it the time when people would ask her how she was feeling? But here she was asking him how he was feeling? It''s not like he was the one who got hurt.

    This wife of his was really something else.

    "Tell me honestly," added Raelle.

    Shui Xian took a moment before saying, "Then I''ll tell you honestly. But don''t call me a bad person after hearing this." He didn''t lift up his head from her shoulder as he continued to hug her close to himself. "The very first feeling of mine wasn''t of loss but of happiness knowing that you''re fine. I''ve been feeling a little guilty while waiting for you to wake up but it''s the truth that the happiness really overwhelmed the grief I felt for the loss of our child."

    Raelle patted his head, "That doesn''t make you a bad person."

    "As long as you think so," he replied. He pulled away to look into her eyes seriously, "But you just keep in mind that all I need in my life is you. So, please don''t get hurt again. It scares me so much. In just a few hours when I didn''t know how you were doing, I felt like a headless fly. I didn''t know where to go and what to do at all. So, just stay with me. Okay?"

    Raelle could see how he was trying to hold back his tears but he wasn''t able to hide the fear he felt. It seemed she really ended up worrying him. And that''s exactly what she had been trying to avoid all this while.

    "Didn''t I tell you? I''m in this marriage for life," she said. "Where can I possibly go?"

    "It''s good to know that you aren''t going anywhere," he smiled sincerely for the first time since she saw him today.

    *Thud!"

    Suddenly, the door of the room was pushed open loudly and someone ran in. Raelle looked at the person who came and blinked at him.

 Chapter 668 Nightmare

    <h4>Chapter 668 Nightmare</h4>

    "Hyson?"

    Both Raelle and Shui Xian didn''t expect to see him right now. Anyone but him. He wasn''t even in the same province since they bothst heard from him.

    Currently, Hyson was panting heavily and when he looked at Raelle sitting on the hospital bed, looking at him with that all too familiar gaze of hers, he finally heaved a sigh. As if a string broke and his body slumped against the door. He was suddenly all too weak.

    Sweat was dripping down his face. He was actually wearing cks with a simple t-shirt. So not look like an idol with his disheveled state. His hair was messed up, probably from running his fingers through them way too many times.

    Shui Xian stood up and went over to Hyson. He held his arm to support him and helped him to sit down on a chair as he asked, "What happened to you?" He poured some water and offered it to Hyson.

    Hyson shook his head at him while taking the ss of water from him. He was so breathless that he couldn''t even speak properly right now. And seeing him gulping down water, Shui Xian seemed to have understood something. He sighed mentally but didn''t urge Hyson to give an answer.

    As for how Hyson suddenly appeared in Raelle''s hospital ward...

    It all startedst night. Hyson had indeed gone to sleep once he hung up the call with Raelle. And it didn''t even take him long to fall into the dreand as well.

    However, the nightmare that had been haunting him for weeks became worse.

    For thest week, in his dream, he only saw the scene of his very first meeting with Raelle. The difference was that this time on the same street they stood in front of each other as adults, not kids. But he was still like the kid who lost his way and she was still like the angel that sparkled way too brightly.

    Seemingly, there was nothing wrong with this dream but he still called it a nightmare because it left an unsettling feeling in his heart. And also because no matter how much he loved having Raelle in his life, he never really like the state in which they met. Raelle was hurt back then and all alone in a foreign ce. No, it was apletely foreign country to her because it was her very first time there.

    He had been trying to forget that dream but he wasn''t able to do so.

    Butst night, the same dream took a turn. Raelle was still wearing the same white dress as she did when they met for the first time and this time, her white dress was stained in blood all over again. Not just that, she stood in the puddle of blood that scared him so much that he woke up.

    "That was just a dream," he told himself at that time but he wasn''t able to convince either his mind or his heart.

    In the end, he dialed Raelle''s number but the call didn''t go through. This took Hyson off guard. He couldn''t believe it. How could the call not go through? But trying to stay hopeful and optimistic, he calmed his heart and decided to wait for a while. And while he was waiting, he ended up doing push-ups, sit-ups, and any other exercise he could do in his suite room just to distract his mind.

    Needless to say, it didn''t really help. He took a shower and tried calling Raelle once again. But the call was still not connected. He tried calling Shui Xian considering how he always seemed to cling to his wife, but he couldn''t contact Shui Xian either. It was at the time when Shui Xian was still on the flight himself. As if heaven was ying a joke with him, the scene of Raelle''s blood-stained white gown shed through his mind and chilled his heart.

    And whatever thoughts were keeping him rational flew out the window.

    He picked up his passport, phone, and wallet and ran out of the suite room. The door beside him also opened and his Manager looked at him, "Are you okay? Your room''s light has been on at this hour. What''s up?"

    Seeing how Hyson seemed ready to go somewhere, she frowned and asked, "Where are you going?"

    "Sister Li, I have to go home," said Hyson.

    "Huh? No, you can''t! What about your schedule?"

    "I don''t care!" was Hyson''s response. "All I know is that I have to go back right now."

    Not even for a minute did he stop to analyze the situation again or try contacting anyone else to find out about Raelle''s condition. No, wait! He did call. He called Shui House and found out that both Shui Xian and Raelle weren''t around. That only strengthened his belief that something was wrong because it was 3 in the morning. There was no way his best friend would stay out of house at this hour!

    Taking a flight back home at the earliest, he came back. As soon as hended, he did try to call Raelle again but the call was still not connected. He tried calling Shui Xian but he wasn''t able to call him either. Again!

    "Urgh!" He was frustrated.

    As thest resort, he called Cloe. "Where is Raelle?"

    Cloe hmmed and haa-ed, not knowing how to reply. Her boss told her not to tell anyone.

    "Cloe!" Hyson''s voice didn''t sound like the usual pleasant one. It was hard and had a darker touch to it. "Tell me where she is!"

    Cloe resigned herself to her fate and gave him the hospital''s address. And that''s how Hyson ended up appearing in Raelle''s ward before anyone else. It was his nightmare that guided him here but he wished he never had such a dream.

    When he noticed a tear still hanging on the long eyshes of Raelle, he ended up crying himself, startling Shui Xian who had been observing him all this while.

 Chapter 669 Twins

    <h4>Chapter 669 Twins</h4>

    Such a handsome idol should look handsome crying but Hyson definitely didn''t look like it. If anything, he was shedding ugly tears and he wailed loudly.

    While Shui Xian was surprised, Raelle wasn''t. She seemed to have expected such a reaction from Hyson.

    "Are you here for a funeral? Why are you crying so much?"

    Hearing Raelle''s question, Hyson looked at her and red at her through his tear-filled eyes. He looked anything but scary at the moment. That pout of his didn''t really help his cause either. It only made him look more like a kid who had been wronged by his parents and wanted to do something about it. Yet, the kid was also helpless before his parents.

    "What?" asked Raelle seeing his reaction. "I''m just saying, people, don''t even cry at funerals these days. And you''re not even at a funeral. Stop crying already."

    "Jiejie!" Sniffled Hyson, "Do you know how scared I had been? I thought it was just a dream and if I didn''t pay attention to it, it''ll go away. But it didn''t go away. It got worse." Saying that he hugged her while crying even louder than before.

    Shui Xian stared at Hyson and caught on to the most important point. Hyson had a dream about Raelle and that''s why he was here so unexpectedly. Who would have thought?

    He suddenly recalled something that Hyson once told him. He was Raelle''s soulmate. At that time, he found it quite funny but now... He looked at Hyson once again. It seemed this soulmate was real. His sixth sense was too strong as well.

    "What if I had lost you?"

    "But you didn''t," replied Raelle while patting his head to calm him down. "I''m still here. Alive and kicking."

    "But I lost..." Hyson stopped himself mid-sentence. He didn''t want to remind her again of the loss of her child. Even he was still trying to make sense of that. How could he remind her of that again?

    Raelle could literally see what was running through his mind. As always, they could really read each other''s silence and that''s why she knocked on his head, "It could have been a nephew."

    Hyson gaped at her. Inside his mind, he was indeed thinking about how he lost his niece but she could really see all his thoughts.

    He shook his head and insisted, "It was a niece. Trust me. When ites to you, I''m never wrong."

    Raelle didn''t argue with him over the gender of the child she lost. It was pointless. Whether a daughter or a son, it was already lost now. She extended her hand towards Shui Xian who immediately put a tissue into her hand. See? Even he was beginning to understand something without her saying it out loud.

    Raelle wiped Hyson''s tears saying, "How old are you? Why cry like this? Aren''t you embarrassed?"

    Hyson sniffled again, "Why would I be? Jiejie has seen me in worse conditions."

    Raelle recalled Hyson''s most embarrassing moments in life and nodded, "Indeed, I''ve seen too much." She rubbed his eyes a little harder as she added, "But you should still stop crying."

    "Jiejie also cried," he said certainly. His tone didn''t leave any room for an argument. It was a statement! "Did it hurt a lot that you cried?"

    "Who cried?" asked Raelle. "It was my eyes. They were just leaking." Then she pointed at Shui Xian and went on, "And it''s because of my husband. He cried and my eyes leaked with him."

    Hyson looked at Shui Xian and then at her before saying, "How is Xian Ge crying connected to you?"

    "Didn''t you hear? A marriage binds the soul and body of a couple. The husband and wife be one. It means if he cries, I''ll naturally cry."

    Hyson gave her a look, "It happens rarely but Jiejie, you''re logic is pretty far-fetched."

    "But it makes sense," insisted Raelle.

    "Not really," replied Hyson. "That kind of a connection exists in twins. Like if one is crying, the other feels like crying. One is hurting, the other feels the pain as well. One is in danger, the other senses it too. It''s the kind of connection we as soulmates share."

    "You''re not my twin," said Raelle.

    "Says who?" argued Hyson. He put his face beside Raelle and looked at Shui Xian, "Xian Ge, don''t we look alike? Just like twins?"

    Shui Xian smiled slightly and nodded his head.

    Raelle looked at her husband, "Really? Why are you lying, Hubby?"

    "I''m not," said Shui Xian. "Yes, you both don''t look alike but apart from that, everything about you two is like you''re twins."

    Hyson grinned at turned to Raelle, "See? You''re born to be my Jiejie. There is no way around that!" He was very happy as he said it. He loved it when someone else agreed with him that he was Raelle''s brother. He won''t ever have it any other way. Putting his head on her shoulder, he said in a soft voice, "I''m really sorry, Jiejie."

    "Now, what are you apologizing for?" asked Raelle.

    "If I had told you about my recurrent dream, you might not have gotten hurt," he breathed out heavily.

    "And who can guarantee that?" inquired Raelle. "Don''t be so thoughtless now. If dreams could save someone''s life..." She didn''t continue that thought but said, "Anyway, dreams can only be a sign but they can''t possibly save lives. Besides, we are mere mortals. How are we supposed to know where the danger is lying? We can''t always avoid the danger even if we know where the danger lies."

    "Human lives are that fragile,"mented Hyson. "But isn''t that unfair?"

    "No, that''s what makes life so precious to people," was Raelle''s answer. "The precious the jade is, the more we protect it. But if it''s any other sturdy rock, we will just throw it around without a care." She took a pause and added, "Anyway, thank you foring. It''s good to see you here."

    Hyson was quiet for a moment before he said, "How can I note? Even if my dream was all wrong, I''d stille running."

    "I know," was her reply.

 Chapter 670 Liar, Liar

    <h4>Chapter 670 Liar, Liar</h4>

    "How is Tang Hebe?" asked Raelle as she was reminded that she would have been in an even worse condition if someone hadn''t pushed her.

    Shui Xian gave her the details as much as he knew. "The doctors said she''ll wake up soon. So, don''t worry about it."

    "What about Tang Hebe?" asked Hyson in confusion.

    "Be nice to her, she saved my life," told Raelle.

    "I have always been a nice person," said Hyson. "But since she saved my Jiejie''s life, I''ll try to be extra nice to her."

    "And what about your work?" asked Raelle.

    "I don''t know," Hyson lowered his head as he recalled how irresponsibly he just ran back home.

    "You didn''t even tell anyone."

    "Hehehe..." was the only response Hyson could get out right now.

    "That''s very irresponsible behavior," said Raelle.

    "So what?" retorted Hyson. "When ites to my Jiejie, I''d rather choose my feelings over anything."

    *Knock! Knock!*

    There was a knock at the door and all of them looked towards the door when it was pushed open. Cloe took half a step inside and seeing Raelle looking at her, she let out a breath of relief. Hearing that Raelle was fine and seeing it with her own eyes were two different things.

    However, as she stepped closer to Raelle, she noticed how pale Raelle''splexion was. Not only that, she looked so fragile. But at least, she didn''t look vulnerable likest night. She definitely wasn''t used to seeing Raelle as someone weak or vulnerable. To her, Raelle was always the strong one. Theplete package of OP (overpowered).

    "Is there something, Cloe?" asked Raelle.

    "Chief, how are you doing?"

    "I''m fine," replied Raelle. "You look worse than me though."

    Only then did Cloe look down and realized she was still d in the dress she worest night. She only washed up her face after her makeup was messed up from crying so much. But her hair wasn''t properly tied and she hadn''t slept all night. Her eyes were still puffy from crying even though she used an ice pack just beforeing here. And the redness in her eyes hadn''t faded as well.

    So, as Raelle just said, Cloe indeed looked worse than Raelle. At least, Raelle looked like a delicate beauty in this state but Cloe was a whole different story.

    Cloeughed awkwardly to bypass that fact Raelle pointed at. But seriously, one should always count on her boss to say things at the wrong time.

    "How much did you cry?" asked Raelle startling Cloe.

    Cloe looked at Shui Xian with an usatory gaze while Shui Xian raised his hands in defense and shook his head. He hadn''t got around to mentioning that he saw Cloe crying. And why would he tell his wife that he ended up making her assistant cry?

    "Don''t look at my husband, he didn''t say anything," said Raelle. "I''m not blind yet."

    Cloe rubbed her nose and smiled at Raelle, "Something went into my eyes so I ended tearing up a little."

    "Liar, liar pants on fire!" that came from Hyson who gave Cloe an amused look.

    Cloe pursed her lips. Urgh! She couldn''t even bring herself to yell at this guy!

    Raelle didn''t tease Cloe anymore. She understood Cloe and knew that she must have cried worrying about her. It made her give Cloe a mental nod of approval. It was worth looking out for this woman. She was certainly a loyal person to keep beside her.

    "What is up?" asked Raelle.

    Cloe pushed a stic bag towards Raelle, "This is what Anna sent for you. She said she found it at the ident scene."

    Raelle nodded her head and took out whatever was inside the stic bag. Oh, it turned out to be her phone that had turned off by now. But there was another phone there. She assumed it to be Tang Hebe.

    Actually, she didn''t even have to assume it. Once she pressed the lock button, the screen lit up and she was able to see the photo of Tang Hebe with her little son. It was Raelle''s first time seeing that little boy and for some reason, her eyes lingered on that boy''s face until the screen went ck again.

    "Did you hear anything else from her?"

    Cloe shook her head, "No, Chief. You already know that Miss Anna won''t answer me. She either listens to you or Miss Mu Chenyan. The rest of the world can go to hell for all she cares."

    "Indeed, she is just that particr," agreed Raelle. "Is there anything else?"

    "No," said Cloe.

    "What about my Yanyan?" asked Raelle.

    "I didn''t tell anyone," said Cloe. "Except for the two people beside you. One of them even coerced me into telling the truth."

    Raelle looked at Hyson who scratched his head, not willing to meet her eyes right now.

    "That''s good. Then you should go back home to rest for a while."

    "But Chief..."

    "You haven''t slept all night. Go and take a rest. You cane back after that and look after Tang Hebe. Now, I can''t go over to do that in my condition. Even if I want to, my husband won''t let me go."

    "Yes," Cloe nodded and turned to leave.

    "Yanyan doesn''t know?" asked Hyson.

    "Don''t you think it''s too quiet here?" asked Raelle. "Why do you think that is?"

    Hyson nodded his head as he agreed, "Right, it''s too quiet. It''d be chaos in the hospital if Yanyan really knew about it."

    Raelle gave her phone to Shui Xian, "Help me charge this."

    "And charge your own phone as well," added Hyson. "It almost gave me another heart attack when I couldn''t even reach you, Xian Ge."

    Only then did Shui Xian check his phone and found out that it was indeed turned off. He nodded, "I should charge it and call B¨¤. He must be wondering why we didn''te back homest night." Then he looked at Raelle, "Do you want me to tell him the truth?"

 Chapter 671 Entertain

    <h4>Chapter 671 Entertain</h4>

    Raelle had never been a liar. She might be able to hide things but rarely did it because she wasn''t all that good at hiding things as well. Last night, she only asked Cloe to not contact anyone else because she knew it''ll get out of control if she was unconscious.

    Only she had the ability to control her Yanyan. Or Hyson did but even Hyson wasn''t around at that time.

    Raelle nodded at Shui Xian saying, "You call B¨¤ and tell him toe to the hospital. Let hime first and we''ll talk to him together."

    "And what about Yanyan?" asked Hyson. "And Opa?"

    Raelle went silent for a moment before saying, "I''ll tell them. Myself."

    Of course, she had to tell them herself. If she let anyone else deliver this news, it won''t end well for even the messenger. So, it was better for her to do it herself.

    Shui Xian nodded and went out to look for a charger. While Hyson was left inside with Raelle. He looked at Raelle and asked seriously, "What exactly happened?"

    "Nothing. A clown must have lost her patience," said Raelle. "Even a rabbit bites when it is cornered."

    Hyson frowned in confusion, not knowing what she meant by that. In the end, Raelle had to exin everything to him. Hyson''s face darkened the more he heard the details.

    "Are you certain it''s her behind this?" asked Hyson.

    "I can''t think of another person desperate enough to resort to something like this," answered Raelle.

    Hyson also nodded, he also thought so. His fists were clenched right now. He so wished to strangle that woman! How dare she touched her best friend?

    Raelle patted his hand, "You calm down first. Go and call your manager. Also, don''t forget to apologize to her for being so irresponsible."

    Hyson pouted at that, "How am I irresponsible? I was worried about you."

    "And now you can see that I am fine," said Raelle.

    "Are you really?" asked Hyson. He wasn''t that easy to coax. He understood Raelle. Even if she seemed fine right now, there was no way she wasn''t feeling the loss of her child. She had always been the person who cared the most about the people she called hers. And that child even if she knew nothing about it was still a part of her.

    He didn''t think it was as simple as it appeared to be.

    How could it be possible that Raelle didn''t care about the child that was growing inside of her? Even if she appeared detached from emotions, she actually wasn''t to the point of being heartless.

    Raelle looked into his eyes and said, "I am."

    Although Hyson knew she didn''t lie, he wasn''t able to convince his heart that she was fine. It didn''t seem like that to him. But she spoke with certainty which meant that perhaps, she couldn''t even tell herself right now that she wasn''t actually okay.

    However, he didn''t argue with her on this and went out to give his manager a call just like Raelle told him to do so.

    After he left, Shui Xian brought her phone back and gave it to her. "I''m going to call B¨¤. You can call Grandpa and Yanyan as well."

    Raelle nodded her head.

    As he left, the first person Raelle called was actually Anna.

    "Missy?"

    "It''s me," replied Raelle. "Did you find the culprit?"

    "Yes," said Anna and reiterated everything they found out and that happened after Raelle''s ident.

    Raelle wasn''t even surprised to hear who the culprit was. She had been right all along. There was only one brainless clown on the banquet who will turn to such desperate means since she couldn''t do anything else.

    "Missy, how do you want to deal with her?" asked Anna.

    "I''ll send her where criminals belong," answered Raelle.

    Anna sighed inwardly. She already knew it''d be like this. Their Missy wouldn''t challenge thew. Even if she wanted to get back at someone, she''ll do it in a legal way. After all, she believed they lived in a society ruled byw and order.

    Anna didn''t know how to tell her Missy that the world had its way to maniptew and order! Thew only favored the ones with power and money!

    However, even if she had such thoughts, she won''t go against Raelle''s words.

    "Then should I send her to the precinct?" asked Anna.

    "How can you do that without entertaining our guest?"

    Anna''s eyes widened and then a smirk appeared on her face as she understood the underlying meaning behind Raelle''s words. Indeed, they''ll let thew decide Ruan Meilin''s punishment. But who said they won''t ''entertain'' her while she was in their hands?

    "I have faith in you, Anna," said Raelle. "Entertain our guest well. After all, your Missy has a reputation to keep. Won''t people be calling me a bad person if I didn''t even entertain my guests well?"

    "Understood, Missy," said Anna. "I have a lot of ways to entertain her. And I assure you, she''ll be very satisfied with our services."

    "I''m counting on you for that," replied Raelle and wanted to hang up the call. But suddenly, she recalled something and added, "Also, help me investigate something. Find out what happened to Amiah Jade and what part that Ruan Meilin yed in that."

    "Got it!"

    "I''m hanging up now, get to work." With that, she hung up the call.

    Even if she was a good citizen who abided by thew that didn''t mean she was a fool. She knew Ruan Meilin won''t suffer much for the attempted murder charge. But she made her lose her child. Did she look like she''ll just forget about that loss?

    It was a life, damnit!

    No matter how small! It was still a life. The life of her child. The child that had her and Xian''s blood. She definitely wasn''t willing to let this matter rest so easily. Even if she didn''t know what anger was, that didn''t mean she didn''t know how to return the favor. Good or bad. She always returned what she got from people. Because she didn''t like owing anything to anyone.

 Chapter 672 Iâ€™m At The Hospital

    <h4>Chapter 672 I''m At The Hospital</h4>

    Grandfather Xiang lifted his eyes from the newspaper he was reading and lowered his reading sses as he looked at the people who came one by one to join him at the breakfast table. Not a single one of them woke up at their usual time and worse, they all looked so beat up right now.

    Yue Yue was cradling her head in her hands as she tried to ease the headache. Although Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin didn''t look as bad as her, they still weren''t doing very well. It seemed they really had too many drinksst night.

    "So,rade Yue, how many drinks did it take for you to pass out?" asked Grandfather Xiang in amusement. "One or two?"

    Yue Yue held up two fingers proudly.

    "Oh, you have some improvement,"mented Grandfather Xiang.

    Yue Yue grinned at him.

    "Is that something to be proud about?"

    Yue Yue''s smile dropped and she lowered her head like a kid who was being lectured. How shameful to get lectured at this age? Especially in front of the younger generation.

    The good news was that even Grandfather Xiang didn''t think it was right to say anything else to Yue Yue in front of his grandchildren. After all, Yue Yue was still their elder. He shouldn''t embarrass her like this.

    However, he was really frustrated right now. Especially when he saw Mu Chenyan bringing a steamer basket to the table. Yes, she was awake. Although she woke upter than usual, she still was earlier than the rest of the drinking gang. And not did she wake up but she also cooked the breakfast.

    Was there even a thing called hangover in Mu Chenyan''s dictionary?

    That''s the question the rest of the drinking gang had in their minds but Mu Chenyan was happily oblivious to their thoughts. She was really someone who made others envious. She was the one who drank the most and yet, she was the soberest of them all.

    How unfair!

    "Oh, good morning, everyone!" said Mu Chenyan as she sat beside Yue Yue. "Yue, having a hangover?"

    ''What do you think?''

    Mu Chenyan smiled at her and like magic brought a bottle out from somewhere and offered it to Yue Yue, "Here, have this hangover drink. It''ll help with the headache. Drink it and get better. Otherwise, you''ll miss out on the delicious buns I just steamed."

    "Chenyan," Grandfather Xiang called out her name.

    "Yes!" Mu Chenyan immediately sat straight like an obedient kid in ss, ready for her lecture.

    "Really?" that was all Grandfather Xiang asked her.

    Mu Chenyan smiled awkwardly, "I''m really innocent. My only fault is that I didn''t try to dissuade them." She truly thought she was the most innocent one. She didn''t take them out drinking. She was the one being dragged there even though it wasn''t against her will. Hehe... Not like she''d ever say no to that.

    "It was I who asked Aunt to have apetition with me," added Xiang Wai. "So, grandpa, you don''t have to be angry with the aunt."

    Mu Chenyan was so touched when Xiang Wai spoke up for her. Oh, that felt so good and heartwarming. Aiyo, that was her niece!

    "Tsk," Grandfather Xiang tsked at that. "You don''t have to speak up for her. It''s not like there is anything I can do to your aunt." Even he was helpless before Mu Chenyan. And what if he lectured her? Or even made her kneel all night or day as punishment? Did it matter to her? No, she was way too used to all the tricks.

    She had been through all kinds of punishments. They had tried hard ways and soft ways on Mu Chenyan but it never worked. Before it was only her dearest brother who could control her and now the job was done by Raelle and Hyson.

    But at the end of the day, Mu Chenyan was still unstoppable!

    "Weimin, did you talk to your father today?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "No," Xiang Weimin shook his head. "Why? What''s up, aunt?"

    "Nothing," Mu Chenyan smiled at him. "I was just wondering how is he doing." Especially after meeting Raellest night. She really hoped her Elle didn''t injure her brother brutally.

    "What can possibly happen to him?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Anything can happen once someone meets our family''s Elle," was Mu Chenyan''s subconscious reply.

    "What did you say?"

    Mu Chenyan''s eyes widened when she realized what she just said and had to tell honestly, "Elder Xiang, it seems that Elle met with Gest night at the banquet."

    Grandfather Xiang didn''t react in the way she thought he would. He had always been avoiding talking about his only son. And he always kept the promise of keeping his granddaughter away from Xiang Hulin.

    "Hmm..." Now, he only hummed and even humorlessly added, "Then I''ll send blessing to his soul."

    Mu Chenyan gaped at him in disbelief. Was she dreaming? Howe that was all the reaction he gave? But she couldn''t disagree that her brother needed some blessing after meeting his daughter. She just hoped her Elle went easy on him for her sake.

    What she didn''t know was that Raelle indeed went quite easy on Xiang Hulin. And it was also for Mu Chenyan''s sake. Because even if Xiang Hulin meant nothing to her, Raelle knew very well what he meant to Mu Chenyan. In a way, these two were like Raelle and Hyson. Siblings from different mothers.

    She was still reeling in disbelief when her phone rang. Seeing it was Raelle''s call, she picked it up.

    "Yo, my Elle! You''re definitely blessed to live for a hundred years, I was just talking about you!"

    "Yanyan..."

    Mu Chenyan''s brows knitted up once she heard Raelle calling her.

    "Baby, what''s wrong?" Even if there was no change in Raelle''s tone, she is damned if she couldn''t tell something was up. How could she not tell anything?

    "Can youe to me?" asked Raelle. "I''m at the hospital."

 Chapter 673 Fasten Your Seatbelt

    <h4>Chapter 673 Fasten Your Seatbelt</h4>

    The wooden chopsticks in Mu Chenyan''s hand snapped and it surprised everyone at the table. While Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin were confused, both Yue Yue and Grandfather Xiang looked at her in worry.

    All of them knew she was on the phone with Raelle but only Yue Yue and Grandfather Xiang knew what could tick her off. Something happened to Raelle. That was something they were certain about.

    "Bring Opa and Yue with you," added Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "What happened?"

    "I''ll tell you once youe," answered Raelle. "I''m not saying anything over the phone."

    Mu Chenyan said, "Then you wait. I''ll be right there." The only reason she was able to listen to Raelle after she was at the hospital was that it was Raelle who had called her. Which reallyforted her that at least, it seemed her Elle was fine. But if it had been anyone else telling her that Raelle was at the hospital, she''d have already done something... For instance, burning the whole world down?

    Okay! That was an exaggeration but she certainly would have felt like doing it.

    "What happened?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    Mu Chenyan had already forgotten about breakfast as she stood up to leave but had to stop when Grandfather Xiang asked that question. She looked at him with aplicated look in her eyes. It''s not like she could hide it from him but she wasn''t sure if she should really tell him considering his health.

    As if he read her mind, Grandfather Xiang said, "I''m still strong enough. Just tell me already."

    "Elle is in the hospital," she stated.

    "What?" The reaction was intense from everyone. Even Yue Yue stood up in worry and stared at Mu Chenyan wide-eyed.

    Mu Chenyan looked at their reaction and sighed, "But I don''t know the details. She only said she''ll tell me once I get there. So, I have to go there. My Elle needs me right now." As she ran off, she didn''t forget to say, "She asked you toe. So, bring Yue with you. I''m leaving first."

    With that, Mu Chenyan was already gone. With a whoosh, you couldn''t even see her figure anymore.

    Hurrying to the garage, she chose a car and drove out herself. She didn''t want a driver today. She was in a hurry and she was a better driver wherever she was in a hurry to get somewhere. Because she was in a hurry, as she drove out of the driveway and was about to get on the road, she almost drove right into another car.

    Mu Chenyan frowned in annoyance and was about to yell at the driver when the car''s door opened and Shui Koshing got down. Mu Chenyan rolled down the window and looked at him, "You''re also going to the hospital?" She asked the question because she could see how serious and worried Shui Koshing looked right now. She couldn''t think of anything else that could make him look like this right now.

    Shui Koshing nodded, "Let me join you." He waved off his driver while he got inside Mu Chenyan''s car.

    "Then fasten your seatbelt, Shing Ge," was all Mu Chenyan said as a reminder.

    And soon Shui Koshing figured out why she reminded him that. Was this a car or a ne? Why was this woman looking for death? What''s with that insane speed?

    "I just want to visit the hospital, definitely didn''t wish to be a patient there," said Shui Koshing as he held his seatbelt tightly.

    "Don''t worry. I''m in no hurry to die," answered Mu Chenyan. "And you should have faith in my driving skills. I even drove a military tank when I was sixteen!"

    "Who let you do that?"

    "No one," said Mu Chenyan. "I sneaked out for that."

    "Have you ever done any good things in life?" asked Shui Koshing.

    "What''s the fun in being good?" retorted Mu Chenyan.

    Shui Koshing closed his eyes and prayed earnestly for his life. Because he believed, that only prayers could help him right now. He really had no faith in Mu Chenyan''s insane driving skills. If he knew how much of a crazy driver she was, he wouldn''t have gotten into her car. But then again, he was also in a hurry to get to the hospital. He had to know what happened to his daughter-inw!

    He was certain they''d be getting some tickets for this crazy speed but Mu Chenyan didn''t give a damn about that. So, he stopped caring either.

    The good thing was that she brought them to the hospital in twenty minutes. He didn''t even know which shortcuts she used or how she managed to maneuver the car through that heavy traffic.

    Like a bullet, Mu Chenyan ran inside the hospital, leaving Shui Koshing far behind. She found Raelle''s ward and barged right into it.

    At the moment, Shui Xian was helping Raelle drink some water while he fussed about almost everything. Hyson sat on the side as well.

    "Yanyan!" Raelle called out once she looked at Mu Chenyan who appeared at the door. "You''re here. Where is Opa? And Yue?"

    "They''lle on their own," replied Mu Chenyan in a trembling voice as she stepped cautiously towards Raelle. Seeing him in that hospital gown, looking so weak and pale, Mu Chenyan''s heart was being squeezed. It hurt her so much to see her Elle like this.

    She had always done everything to protect her. But why was it that she was still a failure? Why?

    Mu Chenyan lifted her hand, trying to touch Raelle''s head but she stopped herself. As if she was scared to even touch her right now. She had already condemned herself to the deepest part of hell for not being able to do her job right. Why was she drinking so happily while her Elle was in the hospital?

    Raelle held her hand and told her, "I''m fine."

    Hearing that sentence, as if a dam just broke out and Mu Chenyan''s tears fell uncontrobly.

 Chapter 674 â€™Luckyâ€™ People

    <h4>Chapter 674 ''Lucky'' People</h4>

    Seeing how Mu Chenyan''s tears fell, Raelle didn''t know how to react. She was truly a little at a loss when it came to seeing crying people. Especially the ones she cared about. She might find those tears, troublesome, but it was a fact that she didn''t like seeing tears in the eyes of people she called family.

    But now, within the past 2 hours, she not only saw Shui Xian and Hyson crying, but she also had to face Mu Chenyan''s tears. This was really making things difficult for her. She didn''t know what to do. It wasn''t like she could tell Mu Chenyan that she''ll get dehydrated once again. Thest time she saw her Yanyan crying was on the day of her marriage and back then, she didn''t think there was anything wrong with herment.

    However, right now, Mu Chenyan looked heartbroken. So, Raelle couldn''t find the right words at all. She opened her arms and Mu Chenyan hugged her instantly.

    Standing on the side, Shui Xian''s eyes shed with an understanding once he saw Mu Chenyan like this. This had to be his very first time seeing this strong woman acting like the world was ending for her. And he also realized another thing, the reason why Raelle didn''t inform Mu Chenyan wasn''t only that Mu Chenyan will create chaos. It was also because Mu Chenyan seemed to feel like she was guilty for not being able to protect Raelle.

    He could understand that feeling very well. After all, he was going through the same right now. And that''s why he was able to understand Mu Chenyan''s state.

    "I told you a million times, you aren''t my shadow," spoke Raelle. "You can''t always protect me. It''s not even your job." How could Raelle not know what was up with Mu Chenyan? This woman raised her. Raelle was familiar with every single frown of hers. "You can try your best but even a man''s shadow leaves his side in the darkness, how can you stay by my side all the time?"

    Mu Chenyan pulled away and wiped her tears before asking, "Are you hurt anywhere? Or are you sick?"

    "No," replied Raelle.

    "Then why are you at the hospital?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Raelle held Mu Chenyan''s hand again and said, "I had a miscarriage. I just lost my baby who I didn''t even know about."

    *Bzzzzz*

    That''s the only sound that rang in Mu Chenyan''s ears once she heard the reply from Raelle. Her Elle was pregnant. No, she lost the child! Mu Chenyan''s heart almost came to her throat and she didn''t know how to react to this information. So many possibilities ran through her mind throughout the journey to the hospital but she didn''t even think about this possibility.

    *Ptak!*

    Mu Chenyan only awoke from her stupor once she heard that loud sound of the p. She turned her head to see that the one who was pped was actually Shui Xian and the one who pped him was Shui Koshing who was ring at his son right now.

    So, when Raelle told Mu Chenyan that she had a miscarriage, Shui Koshing had finally found the ward where Raelle was. He heard that sentence and couldn''t think of anything. He walked inside and pped his son.

    On the other hand, Shui Xian just stood there with his face turned. He felt like his jaw was dislocated or something. His father really used a heavy hand. He didn''t know why his father chose to p him, but deep inside, Shui Xian felt like he deserved that p. He had failed to protect his wife so he really deserved this.

    And that''s why he didn''t resist. In fact, even if Mu Chenyan chose to beat him right now, he still won''t resist at all. Perhaps, he felt like he''ll feel better once someone punished him for being such a failure. After all, his wife didn''t think he did anything wrong. And even if all her words made sense, he couldn''t bring himself to look past the fact that he wasn''t with Raelle when something like that happened to her.

    As Shui Koshing raised his hand again, Mu Chenyan stood up and stood in front of Shui Xian. "Yo, Shing Ge, who said you can raise your hand at our family''s son-inw?"

    Shui Xian was stunned. He for one never thought that the one to protect him would be Mu Chenyan. The woman who was just crying now stood in front of him like a tall wall. She was like a mother hen protecting her kids. Shui Xian felt a surge of warmth seeping into his heart. He thought he''d never have anyone who''d stand up for him and protect him like his mother did but clearly, he was wrong.

    It was the same woman who scared him, now standing up for him and offering him the same protection that he felt like he could depend on her.

    "B¨¤, why did you p my husband?" asked Raelle as she also didn''t understand it.

    Shui Koshing looked at both Mu Chenyan and Raelle before sighing, "I warned this idiot." He looked at his son, "Didn''t I tell you that Raelle is still young? You can wait for a couple of years before having a baby! How can you be so irresponsible?"

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched when he heard that. So, that''s why he was pped? If that was the reason, he really didn''t deserve this p at all! He was being wronged right now!

    "How would I know that I''ll be one of those ''lucky'' people who get the gift even when using condoms?" retorted Shui Xian. He ced his hand on Mu Chenyan''s arm as he asked, "Yanyan, you tell me, how am I wrong?"

    "Hey, Shing Ge! Stop it! It''s not his fault!" said Mu Chenyan. She could scare their family''s son-inw but at the end of the day, this son-inw was her Elle''s husband. And he was very important to her Elle as well. How could she not stand up for him and protect him?

 Chapter 675 Blame

    <h4>Chapter 675 me</h4>

    Shui Xian looked at his father like a proud peacock as if he was challenging his father toe at him now when Mu Chenyan was the one protecting him. Oho! This feeling was addictive! Why didn''t he know it felt so good to be able to depend on someone like this?

    Hyson was still sitting leisurely watching all of them. He didn''t know how other families would react to such an incident but clearly, this family was unique! All of them had such a unique reaction to Raelle''s miscarriage that it was shocking.

    But deep inside, even he knew why that was so.

    None of them wanted to bring up the topic of the child they lost over and over again in front of Raelle and that''s why they were talking about everything except that. Even if the world called her heartless, none of her family would share that view.

    Even if Raelle could notice the sadness in Mu Chenyan and Shui Koshing''s eyes, how could it be hidden from Hyson? After all, if Raelle was really pregnant, it meant these two would be the happiest to be grandparents. Even if Mu Chenyan said she was too young to be a grandma, internally, she''d be over the moon. But now, that happiness was no more.

    "Would you stop defending him?" asked Shui Koshing.

    "Why should I?" retorted Mu Chenyan. "Go over there and stay quiet. Don''t make a scene. I have important things to deal with." After saying that, she went back to Raelle''s side and asked, "How did it happen?"

    Even Hyson straightened up once Mu Chenyan got serious and asked the main question that really concerned her right now. Just who the hell was the blind one who dared to harm her family''s Elle?

    Raelle first looked at Shui Xian and then told Mu Chenyan everything in detail. It was only then that Shui Xian learned about the whole situation from Raelle''s mouth. And he even learned of what part Ruan Meilin yed in this. A murderous look appeared on his face.

    Even Shui Koshing went quiet when he learned about the truth. He also looked at his son and lowered his head after that. He didn''t know what he could say at this moment.

    Mu Chenyan snickered, "So, now even mentally challenged people to think they can get away with everything?"

    She turned to leave when Raelle called her from behind, "Yanyan!"

    "Don''t stop me, Elle!" said Mu Chenyan. "I''ll listen to anything you want but not about this."

    "I wasn''t really gonna stop you," said Raelle. She actually had no mood of stopping Mu Chenyan. Even if she was aw-abiding citizen who always made sure that Mu Chenyan would stay within limits. She wasn''t nning on keeping Mu Chenyan in check regarding this. "I was just saying, don''t kill her. Just yet."

    Mu Chenyan sneered, "Kill her? I don''t like killing people like her. I''ll keep her alive and breathing."

    Shui Xian was also gonna follow her when Raelle held his wrist and stopped him, "Where are you going?"

    "Baby, I''ll be back soon," he smiled at her, retracting the murderous aura around him. He didn''t want her to see that side of him.

    Raelle shook her head, "You''re staying right here. I want you here. With me."

    Shui Xian was still weak before those words. How could he go against that? But he really wanted to follow Mu Chenyan right now. He wanted to personally skin Ruan Meilin. He warned her repeatedly and yet she actually went as far as to hurt his wife? Even if his wife was fine, what about his child? He lost his child! Was he supposed to just let it go?

    He couldn''t do that!

    But when the question of revenge and his wife arose in his mind, he immediately chose Raelle over everything. Well, revenge was the dish best served cold! So what if he would be a littlete? He had faith in Mu Chenyan.

    He sat on the bed with Raelle and hugged her shoulders, "I''m right here."

    Raelle ced her head on his chest and hummed in response.

    Shui Koshing finally moved after a long moment of silence and said, "Daughter-inw, I''m sorry."

    Raelle lifted her head and looked at Shui Koshing, "What for?"

    Shui Koshing looked at his son as he added, "I knew that keeping Ruan Meilin will one day harm Shui Xian. But I didn''t do anything about this."

    "How is that your fault?" asked Raelle. "No, you all need to understand one thing. If there is anyone at fault in this situation, it''s Ruan Meilin. Your what and ifs won''t do much. Those are just possibilities and they will only stay as possibilities. The reality is that Ruan Meilin dug her own grave and she has to lie in it herself as well. You or anyone didn''t go to her and tell her to make her choices the way she did. She did it all by herself. So, it''s pointless for you all to take the me." She took a pause and added, "And if there is anyone else other than whom you should be ming, that''s me. I am the one who didn''t know that I was pregnant. I should have been careful. But I wasn''t. So, why aren''t you all ming me but trying to find faults with yourselves?"

    Shui Koshing suddenly had nothing to left. But one thing he had to say, "It''s not your fault." Those were his sincere words. He didn''t even for a second think that Raelle was at fault for losing the child. Heck, he was more concerned about her than having a grandchild. He didn''t get her to marry into their family for the sake of a child.

    That was never his purpose. He just wanted a partner for his son and he did found that partner in Raelle. How could he find faults with her just because of a child? He wasn''t that kind of a father-inw!

 Chapter 676 One Of A Kind

    <h4>Chapter 676 One Of A Kind</h4>

    "If it''s not my fault, then it isn''t yours either," was Raelle''s reply which Shui Koshing purse his lips in silence but he eventually nodded his head.

    He should know by now that his daughter-inw didn''t think like most people. She definitely wasn''t someone who''d y the me game with others. Aiyo, maybe he was still notpletely able to ept the fact that someone could be this rational and leave their emotions out of everything.

    "I say, Uncle Shing, this sad look doesn''t suit you,"mented Hyson from the side.

    Shui Koshing looked at him and raised his brows, "Oh, then dear nephew, why are you looking sad?"

    "Who said I''m sad?" retorted Hyson. "No, I''m not. I''ve set a time limit on the emotions I''m allowed to feel. For instance, I can''t allow myself to be sad for more than an hour. That''ll ruin my happy image."

    Shui Koshing chuckled at his words, "Sometimes you really make me wonder whom you take after. Because your mother was definitely not like that."

    "His father," said Raelle with certainty.

    Both Hyson and Shui Koshing stared at Raelle. She didn''t seem like she felt she said something wrong. In fact, she even exined, "Your dad is officially out of my unwanted people''s list."

    Hyson almost jumped up from his seat as he stared at her, "What did he do to deserve this honor?"

    Raelle was reminded of how Zhai Kuijun spoke to her at the banquet and then she felt like his image was ovepping with Hyson''s right now. See? They were definitely father and son!

    "That''s because he reminded me of you," replied Raelle. As if that was all the exnation needed. But true enough, it was all the exnation that Hyson needed to understand the meaning behind her words.

    "How is that possible?" asked Hyson. "I''m such a cutie. He is so broody!"

    Shui Xian ''pfft'' at that but coughed to hide hisughter.

    "Well, he looks like he has been reborn," answered Raelle.

    Thatment actually got Hyson curious a little bit and that''s when Shui Koshing spoke up, "Now that my daughter has mentioned it, I also think the same."

    "You too, Uncle Shing?"

    Shui Koshing nodded his head and hummed, "Hmm... Although he changed after his marriage, before that he was really a ball of sunshine just like you. Why do you think your mother fell for him?"

    Hyson shrugged, "Since I''ve met him, I''ve been trying to understand what my mum saw in him."

    Shui Koshing smiled at him, "Well, it''s unfortunate that you weren''t able to see what your mother fell for."

    Hyson''s expressions didn''t look right.

    "What''s up, Fai?" asked Shui Xian.

    "Now, he is sulking since he believes he is one of a kind. We shouldn''tpare him with others," said Raelle.

    "Oh, that''s true. Our family''s Fai is really one of a kind," said Shui Xian.

    Hyson was pouting as he looked up at Shui Xian and asked, "Xian Ge, I really am one of a kind. Right?"

    "Definitely!"

    Raelle''s phone beeped and she checked. She looked at the message that Cloe sent her and fell into deep thought. The message read, [Chief, I didn''t know if I should tell you this or not but I think you deserve to know. It seems your father... I mean General Xiang Hulin had been at the hospital sincest night. I originally didn''t know it. It''s something Aiden and Caleb from your security team informed me. It seems he knows about your ident.]

    Raelle was still lost in thoughts when the door of her ward was pushed open. Raelle looked over and saw Grandfather Xiang operating his wheelchair inside the room. He came to her side and looked at her carefully. He only sighed in relief when he couldn''t see any obvious wounds on her. But that alone didn''t settle his heart at all. Because even if she was hurt where he couldn''t see, he won''t be able to tell just from her reaction alone.

    "Opa!" Raelle called out to him. Then she looked behind him and saw Yue Yue who was already shedding tears. Raelle didn''t know what to say. Although she hadn''t spent a lot of time with this woman, she knew how much this woman loved to cry. Aye, she couldn''t even say anything. After all, Yue Yue was one of those beauties who looked extremely beautiful and delicate when they cried.

    Oh, yes! She was a pretty crier!

    The kind that would break your heart with just her tears.

    After that, she even noticed Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin who had followed their grandfather to the hospital. After all, it was their sister who was at the hospital. They had toe.

    Grandfather Xiang lifted his hand as if he wanted to touch her and seeing that, Raelle put her head under his hand, allowing him to pat her like he always did. You know the kind that was filled with all his love and care for her.

    Grandfather Xiang didn''t even ask her what happened. Because by the time he arrived, he already learned that she had a miscarriage. And that''s why he didn''t even know what to say to her right now. Was there anything he could say in this situation?

    Years ago, when his own wife had a miscarriage he didn''t even know what to say back then. But now it was his own granddaughter. The one granddaughter whom he loved more than his own life. He felt like it didn''t hurt when he lost his own child as much as it was hurting him right now.

    He could still recall how his wife had almost crazy when she learned she had a miscarriage and lost their baby. She was filled with the thoughts of revenge and darkness. Inparison, his granddaughter looked way too calm. But he didn''t know if this calmness was real or just a facade.

    However, knowing Raelle, she never faked anything. So, this calmness had to be real.

 Chapter 677 Cake Lady

    <h4>Chapter 677 Cake Lady</h4>

    "Before you say anything," started Raelle. "Let me make it clear. I''m an adult. It''s not your job to protect me. In fact, now, it''s my job to protect you instead. So, don''t tell me you feel like you failed to do your job. You''ve done a splendid job at raising a genius like me."

    Hysonughed out loud once she was done.

    "Were you praising Opa or yourself?" asked Hyson.

    "Does it matter?" asked Raelle. "I''m his granddaughter. You praise me or him, it''s the same thing!"

    "You know this is the reason why the people who meet you for the first time have this feeling of wanting to beat you up!"

    "Did you feel like beating me when you first met me?" asked Raelle in return.

    "What? How is that possible? If that was the case, why would I do so much just to reach you?"

    Seeing them talking so casually, Grandfather Xiang rubbed Raelle''s head as he said, "You don''t have to be so strong."

    "But it''s a fact that I''m strong," answered Raelle. "Don''t you already know that?"

    Grandfather Xiang could only nod in response. Indeed, he already knew how strong she was. "But you don''t have to be strong all the time. Your Opa is still alive. I can still take care of you."

    "Opa, are you sad?" asked Raelle startling Grandfather Xiang with her question. He didn''t think she''d ask such a question to him.

    "I just lost the chance to see my great-grandchild," said Grandfather Xiang. "Do you think I won''t be sad?"

    "Then it must be Heaven''s way of telling you to live longer," told Raelle. "You can''t leave me so soon. You have to wait for your great-grandchild." She took a pause and added, "Don''t you always believe in Heaven''s will? You should believe in this as well."

    Grandfather Xiang didn''t know if he shouldugh or cry at her words. Just to see him live a long life, she''d be saying whatever. Which bastard said his granddaughter was emotionless? She had the purest and most intense emotions within her. Even he was scared of leaving this world, knowing she''d be really hurt once he''s gone.

    His nose stung and tears were brimming in his eyes. However, he stubbornly held back his tears. He knew she didn''t want to see tears right now. Especially when Mu Chenyan already warned him over the phone call to not cry in front of her.

    "Are you alright, Yenay?" he asked seriously.

    Raelle took a pause before she shook her head, "No. I don''t think I''m alright." She held his gaze as she continued, "But you have to have faith in me. Even if I fall, I always stand back up. And I''m definitely not alone."

    Grandfather Xiang nodded his head in understanding. Indeed, it wasn''t the first setback in her life. Even if she was a genius, it wasn''t like she hadn''t faced failures in her life. But she had the stubbornness in her blood. The more you''ll try to push her down, the stronger she''ll stand back up. It had always been like that. And he had no doubt, it''d be like this in the future.

    "Yue, no matter how pretty you look when you cry, you should stop it already," said Raelle. "If you shed so many precious pearls from your eyes, my Hyson will go bankrupt."

    Hyson rubbed his nose before he looked at his mother, "People have all sorts of hobbies. Mum, why is your hobby so peculiar? Who cries over everything?"

    Yue Yue threw a mean nce at her son who shrank back in his seat and didn''t dare say another word to her.

    Instead, he looked at Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai, before he waved at them, "Yo, Lieutenant! You seem to be in a good shape." Then he looked at Xiang Wai and raised his brows at her. "Oh, so you''re the Major!"

    "You met her?" asked Raelle. From his tone, she could tell that Hyson''s reaction wasn''t like he was seeing Xiang Wai for the first time. But it was the first time, he knew she was Raelle''s sister.

    Hyson nodded his head and told her, "She''s the valiant cakedy!"

    No one could understand that exnation except for Raelle who nced at Xiang Wai once again. Of course, she knew why he called her the valiant cakedy. And if anyone thought that Hyson wouldn''t mention such an insignificant encounter of bumping into Xiang Wai to Raelle, then they''d be mistaken.

    Xiang Wai''s eyes were also narrowed from the time she heard Hyson''s voice. Yes, back then she didn''t see his face but that didn''t mean she couldn''t recognize his voice either. She was very sensitive to such things and considering how Hyson''s voice had a unique tone to it, it wasn''t even that difficult to recognize him.

    But she was clearly surprised to know that he was the same ''Hyson'' whom even her brother was a little envious of. After all, even she could tell this boy had a very special ce in their sister''s life.

    "Little Fai, something is wrong with your naming sense," said Shui Xian.

    Hyson puffed up his cheeks, "I''m not talking to you anymore, Xian Ge!" Saying that he went to a corner and pulled out his phone once again to y. Well, it seemed like he was ying but the reality was something else.

    On his phone''s screen, was the scene of an ice cer. Currently, a girl with a thinyer of clothes covering her body was kneeling on the ice. Her body wasn''t even trembling at this point as the ice had slowly covered her body. Someone threw a bucket of water on her body once again and she shuddered. She couldn''t feel even a single finger of hers at this point.

    Seeing this state of hers, Hyson''s eyes got deeper and deeper. If he could, he''d have already gone over and tore that woman apart! But he wasn''t an impatient person at all. He knew his priorities very well. Whether his revenge on Ruan Meilin was more important or his best friend, he knew it all too well.

 Chapter 678 Not Suitable

    <h4>Chapter 678 Not Suitable</h4>

    Ruan Meilin was currently in a pathetic state. She was in an ice cer with the temperature so low that she felt like her bones had frozen by now. She hadn''t slept a wink sincest night.

    At first, she was tied to a pir and the people who brought her here used the cruel water torture on her. Coldwater dripped on her scalp, face, and forehead slowly. As history had proven, this method evoked fear within the subject along with mental deterioration. For someone like Ruan Meilin whose brain wasn''t very good, to begin with, this torture made her fearful to the extreme.

    She screamed and yelled but no one listened to her at all. And none of them even stopped her from screaming as if they weren''t afraid that someone would hear her voice ande for help. But then again, Anna or her team really had no such fear. They were in the basement of the building and it was soundproof.

    And even if someone did hear Ruan Meilin''s plea for help, who would dare to help?

    All of them actually quite patient people being ex-mercenaries. They weren''t like assassins who were impatient to swiftly kill their target and get done with it. These mercenaries knew the joy that came with slow torture.

    Although it seemed like they weren''t doing much to Ruan Meilin, they were actually slowly breaking her apart, mentally. She had lost her voice from screaming and lost her energy to move and struggle at some point as well. Till the dawn broke out, they had used their patience to break every single wall she had in her mind with their water torture.

    After that, they threw her inside the ice cer. Oh, it wasn''t because they got tired. It was because all of them were discussing what method to go for next. The discussion was heated because all of them had their own ideas.

    It was during this time that Hyson had contacted Anna. Seeing his message, Anna raised her brow and shook her head. This little prince of the family was really like a prince. He even had the cruelty of one.

    "We''re going for the shock therapy," announced Anna to everyone.

    "What''s the fun in that? I still think ying is better!" Hailey voiced out.

    "That''s an order from above," answered Anna. "Since our criminal is mentally ill, we should be considerate of her health. What if she used that as an excuse to get out of jail time? So, we should do society a favor and help her fix her brain."

    Hailey clicked her fingers and nodded, "Agreed! Get everything ready!"

    As they tied her to the chair, Ruan Meilin was horrified. She had already lost half her life since thest night, she didn''t want to go through this as well. She could only curse her impulsive nature. Why did she have to throw that pot?

    But she knew why she did it. It was because she saw Tang Hebe with Raelle. And she was certain that Tang Hebe told Raelle about the incident that happened with Amiah. She was scared. She didn''t want that news to reach Shui Xian. So, in her impulse, she decided to attack. She thought she''ll be shooting two birds with one stone.

    One, if something happened to Raelle, she''d be able to get rid of this woman who insulted her. And once Tang Hebe saw what happened to Raelle, she''d be too scared to move against Ruan Meilin. She had never liked Tang Hebe but the way Tang Hebe threatened her made Ruan Meilin''s hatred grow.

    She couldn''t form a single sentence out of her mouth, so she kept mumbling, "No." while shaking her head. However, no one paid attention to her.

    "The moment you decided to hurt our Missy, you had already asked for your death," said Hailey as she tied her hands to the chair with leather straps. With an evil smile on her face, she added, "You shouldn''t have offended her."

    "Hailey, stop wasting your breath," said Anna. "Start the machine. Our guest here needs proper entertaining."

    All of this was seen by Hyson who was still calmly looking at his phone screen. He was actually quite disappointed when he noticed Ruan Meilin''s condition. Was she even worthy of being Raelle''s opponent? She broke down so easily? It didn''t even take 12 hours and she was already at her limits. What a pathetic case!

    But it was understandable. This woman was never smart, to begin with. Her brain was already not working. She only knew how to bully the weak with her maniptive personality. But against real torturers like Anna, she was worse than a rat!

    With a bang, the door of the room was pushed open and Mu Chenyan walked in.

    Every single person in the room froze as they stared at the woman who stood at the door. Her hair was tied up in a tight bun and she wore a casual pair of pants and a shirt.

    Anna''s breath stagnated once she looked at Mu Chenyan. She knew she was in trouble but she couldn''t do anything about that either. "Mistress!"

    The voices echoed inside the room one by one as Mu Chenyan stepped insidezily. Her eyes were fixed on the woman who was tied to that chair and was receiving shock therapy. She looked in pain and misery but did it matter to Mu Chenyan? No! She was never a kind-hearted soul.

    Looking toward the security cameras in the room, Mu Chenyan spoke up, "My dear Fai, how about you cut off the connection now?"

    Hyson wasn''t even surprised that she knew he was watching it all. He wanted to protest that he didn''t want to cut off the connection but Mu Chenyan left him no room for discussion.

    "Who said I was asking for your opinion?" Mu Chenyan''s voice sounded like she was just casually chatting with her lovely godson. But Hyson knew better. "Be a good boy! The next scene isn''t suitable for you."

 Chapter 679 Torture

    <h4>Chapter 679 Torture</h4>

    *Warning! There are some disturbing things in the following chapter. Please don''t read if you''re a sensitive person. Thank you!*

    Hyson was quite resistant to that idea but he didn''t want to go against Mu Chenyan either. This woman had a very peculiar personality. She''d rather do all the dirty work herself than let even a speck of dust enter Raelle or Hyson''s eyes.

    She wanted her two precious babies to be free of worries.

    Once Hyson turned off his phone, Mu Chenyan''s gentleness disappeared. Her eyes swept over every single person standing in the room and all of them felt a chill run down their spine. None of them even dared to breathe loudly.

    Her eyes stopped on Anna who bit down the inside of her cheek and sighed, she kneeled on one knee before her, with her head bowed, "Mistress, we failed to do our job. You can punish us however you want."

    "Anna, Anna, my dear Anna," spoke Mu Chenyan. "Do you think I''m an unreasonable person?"

    "Mistress is wise," answered Anna. "Never been unreasonable."

    Of course, Mu Chenyan was a little mental. But she wasn''t unreasonable. She certainly won''t punish her own people without any reason. And she certainly knew why they weren''t able to protect her Elle.

    "You know why I''m mad?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Why didn''t you inform me first?"

    "When Mistress first chose me as Missy''s bodyguard, you told me clearly that if I ever have to choose between your orders and Missy''s, I have to follow Missy at all costs. I just did as you said," told Anna in her humble tone. She might be considered one of the best ones, but she was never able to raise her voice or her head before Mu Chenyan. "I was following orders. But if Mistress thinks I have done something wrong, I''m willing to take any punishment."

    Mu Chenyan could only sigh once she heard that. If it was Raelle''s orders, she really had nothing to say about it. What mattered to her was not the loyalty of all these people towards her. What mattered to her was their loyalty to Raelle.

    "What''s going on here?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Is this really how you should be doing this?"

    "Young Master Fai asked us to do it," answered Anna.

    "I was still more in favor of ying," added Hailey from the side.

    Anna red at her and Hailey shut up. Mu Chenyan''s lips curled up slightly. She knew all about Hailey''s personality. She was young and had a bit of a temper. She was always ready to throw someone down.

    "Bring out my dogs," said Mu Chenyan. "How can we not give somepany to our guest?"

    Hailey''s eyes sparkled once she heard that while Anna stayed quiet for a moment before saying, "Mistress, Missy wants to send her to the police. We thought it''ll be better to not give her any obvious wounds."

    "Do I look like I care?" asked Mu Chenyan. She walked up to Ruan Meilin and said in an eerie voice, "I want this Miss Ruan to understand the consequences of touching my family''s Elle. Do you think you can live killing my Elle''s baby? I will never allow it."

    "There isw in our country," Ruan Meilin managed to squeak out in fear.

    "Law?" Mu Chenyanughed out loud. "I have had a very bad habit in life, I never liked following rules. To y with thisw, I have studied all the ins and outs of it. And let''s not even talk about whether I know thew or not, do you think I have wasted all my life doing nothing? There are three things in life you should never underestimate, money, power, and connections. Guess what? Those three are something I''ve nevercked in life. My connections alone are enough to make you live in hell and no one would even dare question how a person named Ruan Meilin disappeared."

    Ruan Meilin''s eyes were losing focus. She couldn''t help feeling even more scared. Looking into Mu Chenyan''s eyes, Ruan Meilin felt like she was looking at a devil. Those dark orbs were sucking her soul in and giving her the illusion that she was falling into an abyss. All she saw was darkness and nothing else.

    Mu Chenyan found a box on the table and raised her brows in question. "What''s this?"

    Before anyone could move it, Mu Chenyan opened it and found some pieces of paper inside. She picked one and read it out loud, "Denailing." She raised her brows and nodded, "Interesting." She took out another chit and read it out loud again, "Foot whipping." Her head bobbed up and down, "Oh, this one sounds nice."

    It definitely wouldn''t sound nice to normal people. Although foot whipping wouldn''t really cause injury, it was more so to inflict pain on the subject. When you flog the soles of the person''s bare feet, the subject will wish to die from the pain.

    "Combing," Mu Chenyan''s eyes narrowed. "Which one of you wrote this?"

    No one dared to speak. But Mu Chenyan''s eyes settled on Hailey, "You did, didn''t you?"

    Hailey lowered her head and smiled at Mu Chenyan, "I did."

    "I love this idea," said Mu Chenyan. "Should we go with this?"

    Combing-fatal form of torture where ironbs designed to prepare wool are used to scrape, tear, and y the victim''s flesh. Of course, Mu Chenyan would love this idea. She had already been feeling like skinning this Ruan Meilin alive, how could she not love this idea?

    Mu Chenyan didn''t think all of them had so many ideas for torturing. And before she came, it seemed they couldn''te to a decision. Once again, she was satisfied with the people she hand-picked.

    "Bring me a rod," said Mu Chenyan as she cracked her knuckles. "Let me have some fun before my dogs are here."

    "Bring a metal rod," said Anna as she stood beside Mu Chenyan and continued to look ahead. She didn''t dare even look at the side of Mu Chenyan''s face. Once someone brought the rod, she offered it to Mu Chenyan immediately, "Here you go, Mistress."

 Chapter 680 Live A Very Long Life

    <h4>Chapter 680 Live A Very Long Life</h4>

    *WARNING! Please don''t read the chapter if you''re notfortable with torture. You can skip the chapter it won''t affect the storyline. Thank you!*

    Mu Chenyan raised the metal rod and struck at Ruan Meilin who shuddered in fear. But right before the rod could touch her, Mu Chenyan stopped. Thinking of something, she dropped the metal rod. She pulled the leather strap that tied her to the chair and struck the leather strap right at her kneecaps.

    As soon as Ruan Meilin was hit on her kneecap, it felt like every single bone in her leg trembled, jolting up a striking pain. It hurt so much that she screamed out as her tears fell down relentlessly.

    Anna continued to follow Mu Chenyan''s movement without blinking. She could see that more than anger, Mu Chenyan was scared. She couldn''t help smiling to herself. The Mu Chenyan she first met in her life was a fearless devil. She feared nothing, not even death could scare her. But that same woman was now scared. And her weakness was the girl she raised.

    She could tell that Mu Chenyan''s heart wasn''t really at ease even after seeing that Raelle was fine. The possibility that something could have happened to Raelle was scaring her and that was triggering the ruthlessness she had been burying deep inside of her.

    The angel Yanyan who raised Raelle Xiang was a demon in reality. People who know her would say she was cruel and ruthless. But Anna would disagree. If it wasn''t because of Mu Chenyan''s kindness, Anna would have lost everything. In fact, all the people who followed her from the mercenary teams were all those who owed Mu Chenyan one thing or another. They were all indebted to her kindness.

    And when she actually offered that kindness to them, she had asked for nothing in return.

    It was yearster she came to find them and asked for only one thing, ''Loyalty!''

    And the irony was, she didn''t want them to be loyal to her. She wanted all of them to be loyal to Raelle and only Raelle. Even if they owed Mu Chenyan their lives, they still had to serve their loyalty to Raelle till theirst breath.

    To be honest, Anna was in disbelief when she heard about Mu Chenyan''s condition back then. She couldn''t believe it was the same person whom she feared and admired. But the reality was, that every dragon has a reverse scale. This one also did. It was just unexpected for every one of them to see who this reverse scale was.

    "Tie her up to the ceiling," ordered Mu Chenyan in an emotionless voice.

    While they were arranging the things to tie Ruan Meilin up to the ceiling, Mu Chenyan came to crouch down before her and took her tab from another subordinate. She smiled eerily at Ruan Meilin as she said, "Our family''s son-inw has prepared a gift for you." With that, she yed the news on her tablet.

    Ruan Meilin''s red, blurred eyes couldn''t see the screen clearly but she could hear the announcer''s voice saying, "Today, the ie tax department raided the Ruan Constructions and arrested their CEO for tax invasions. The Ruan Constructions new project at the 8th Avenue is also being inspected since it''s reported that the material used in the project is cheap which can endanger the people''s lives." The announcer continued to speak but Ruan Meilin couldn''t hear anything else.

    She shook her head. "No! Xian Ge can''t do this!" she spoke in her hoarse voice that didn''t sound pleasant at all. "He won''t punish innocent people for my mistakes."

    Mu Chenyan patted her face as she told her, "If you think Shui Xian is a nice person, you''re mistaken. Do you think I chose him as our family''s son-inw just for his pretty face? Well, that was one of the reasons but the reason was that I knew what he was capable of. Nice? He only looks like a gentleman. No, he is a gentleman to people he loves. But to the rest, he can be your worst nightmare. He is just good at deceiving people with his handsome face." She shook her head and added, "Did you really think you or your family won''t suffer for what you did? If he can help your family reach where they are, he can destroy that family as well. That saves me the trouble. And who said those people are innocent? Maybe they didn''t influence your decision to attempt murder but that doesn''t mean they are nice people. And we are following thew. They''ll get what they deserve. Along with you."

    "Everything is prepared, Mistress!"

    "Pull up!" said Mu Chenyan.

    And then Ruan Meilin tied from her feet was pulled up from the ground. A ss water tank was brought to the room and ced right under Ruan Meilin. Since Mu Chenyan wasn''t allowed to leave any wounds on Ruan Meilin, she had plenty of ways to inflict pain and torture the person who killed her Raelle''s baby.

    "Please, forgive me!" Ruan Meilin shouted. "I had lost my mind for a moment. Please, spare my life!"

    "Who said we are after your life?" retorted Mu Chenyan. "Don''t worry. I''ll make sure you live a very long life." But her words weren''t reassuring. It only scared Ruan Meilin even more who was hung upside down and the blood was rushing to her brain.

    "Drop!" said Mu Chenyan and Ruan Meilin fell from a high point to the tank filled with cold water.

    Like a desperate person, she iled her hands trying to save herself but the water was trying to rush into her airways and making it impossible for her to survive. However, right before she could suffocate to death, she was pulled up.

    Sympathy? What was that? Mu Chenyan knew better than being kind to your enemy was being cruel to yourself. It''s not like Ruan Meilin had shown any mercy when she decided to drop that heavy flower pot on Raelle. Even if that was an impulse. Who cares?

    Impulse is the real devil. One should always be prepared for the consequences of it.

 Chapter 681 Come Over

    <h4>Chapter 681 Come Over</h4>

    Back in the hospital, everyone was still gathered around Raelle. She didn''t think she needed all these people here, but apparently, her opinion wasn''t counted today.

    "Eat more," said Shui Xian as he put another spoonful of congee in front of her mouth. Raelle looked at him and then at the spoon he held before she opened her mouth and just ate silently.

    She wanted to say no. But seeing how Shui Xian looked at her, she just couldn''t do so. It wasn''t every day that Raelle felt like doing something that went against her thoughts. But this was her husband, she was willing to give in to him. It''s not like she''ll lose a part of her flesh or anything.

    Recalling something, Raelle looked at her siblings and said, "Are you both here to stare at me? What am I? A zoo animal?"

    "Is that something you should say right now?" asked Xiang Wai. "We are obviously here because we''re concerned about you."

    "Thanks for your concern," said Raelle.

    Xiang Wai felt speechless at her reaction. This girl!

    "But you should go and share some concern with your father right now," added Raelle.

    Both Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai looked at her in surprise. "Dad? What about him?"

    "So, you don''t know he is here?" asked Raelle.

    Xiang Wai looked at her brother who looked confused, "I know he is in the city. But are you saying he is at the hospital right now?"

    "Yes," answered Raelle.

    "Why?" the question came from Xiang Wai.

    "How would I know?" was Raelle''s response. "I just know he is on the same floor."

    Xiang Wai ran out of the room to look for her father. She looked all around the floor and it didn''t take her long to find her father. General Xiang wouldn''te alone to the hospital. So, seeing those soldiers dressed in casual clothes keeping watch outside a room, she knew he was inside.

    "Open the door!" she said.

    "Major!" the soldiers gave her a salute before opening the door for her. They didn''t dare hesitate and allowed her to enter.

    Inside the room, Xiang Hulin was still pacing around when Xiang Wai walked inside.

    "Papa?"

    Xiang Hulin was surprised to hear her voice and looked up. "Wai? What are you doing here?"

    "That''s my question," said Xiang Wai. "Are you not feeling well? Or did you get injured? Is it an old injury acting up again?"

    Xiang Hulin smiled slightly when he heard her firing questions at him like this. Usually, she loved to act cool and unbothered but once she found out that he was hurt, she''ll turn into a naggy woman. Really like her aunt!

    "I''m fine," said Xiang Hulin in a gentle voice.

    Xiang Wai gave him a suspicious look, clearly not believing him at all. How could she believe him? She might have not grown up with him, but she knew him. Whenever she''de over to meet him, he''ll always try to appear like he was fine. If she hadn''t identally learned about how he had a habit of smiling at her even when he was bleeding, she''d really believed him.

    Her feelings for her parents had always beenplicated but that didn''t mean she didn''t care about them at all. It was just that perhaps it was in their blood, none of them really knew how to show their love.

    "I''m really fine," insisted Xiang Hulin.

    "Then why are you at the hospital?" she asked as she crossed her arms in front of her chest in an imposing manner.

    "I..." He opened his mouth but couldn''t continue his sentence.

    That''s when it clicked in Xiang Wai''s mind. "Did youe for Raelle?"

    Xiang Hulin nodded his head. "I heard about what happened. I couldn''t do anything else so I came here. But I''m still very helpless. Because even if I''m here, I still can''t do anything for her."

    "She is fine," told Xiang Wai.

    "I heard," said Xiang Hulin. He hade here straight from the banquet. And he knew about Raelle''s condition. He even heard about her miscarriage which really broke him inside. But he knew he couldn''t go over and hug her or tell her that he was there for her. He had been awake all night, he even learned the news that she woke up. But he didn''t dare go over to see her.

    However, he didn''t dare to leave either. He couldn''t bring himself to leave. At least, by staying here, he could feel like he was close to his daughter. But if he left, the distance between them will grow. Not like, the distance wasn''t wide enough already.

    So, even if he didn''t know what he wanted, he still stayed here.

    "Do you wanna see her?" asked Xiang Wai seeing his hesitation.

    Xiang Hulin shook his head, "Your grandfather is there. I don''t dare go over."

    "Tsk. How can you be scared of Grandpa when you''re already so old? And also, you''re a General!"

    "That doesn''t change the fact that he is my father," said Xiang Hulin. "His status will always be higher than mine."

    "Grandpa isn''t that difficult of a person," said Xiang Wai. "In fact, he is actually very nice."

    Xiang Hulin patted her head, "I know. He is a very nice person."

    "Then why don''t you go over and see him?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "He doesn''t want to see me," said Xiang Hulin.

    *Knock! Knock!*

    Adjutant Zhang walked in and told Xiang Hulin, "General, your father... I mean, Elder Xiang sent a message for you." Xiang Hulin''s eyes widened in shock while Adjutant Zhang went on, "He asked you toe over."

    Xiang Hulin was horrified and in disbelief once he heard that. His father actually called him? How long had it been? Ah! Years! No, decades!

    But now that his father was calling him, he was actually feeling a little nervous. This nervousness was different from when he met Raelle. This time, he was truly scared.

 Chapter 682 Worst-Case Scenario

    <h4>Chapter 682 Worst-Case Scenario</h4>

    General Xiang Hulin was not only respected but was also known as a fierce General. He had been granted medals and honors that were hard to even count. And yet, this man was now feeling like a kid who was scared to face his father.

    Adjutant Zhang who was following behind the General like his little tail was actually feeling emotional at this moment. How many years it had been? He had been working beside Xiang Hulin since thetter was only a trainee. After all, even his father once served Xiang Hulin''s father, Xiang Tianyu.

    So, how could he not know the inside story of the Xiang family?

    To be very honest, Adjutant Zhang always believed that in the whole fiasco, Xiang Hulin was the biggest victim. On the same day, he got divorced from his wife whom he loved with all his heart and he lost his mother for good. And the very same day, he had to bear the resentment, disappointment, and even detachment from his father. Even his sister whom he doted on the most was distanced from him.

    He never even got to see the face of his newborn baby girl or even managed to hold her in his arms. As for Xiang Wai, even she was taken by his wife. And he was left with the stinky brat like Xiang Weimin who was old enough to have his own ideas and peculiar personality. That boy shut himself so badly that no one was allowed to get near him during that time.

    But did everyone think Xiang Hulin didn''t suffer? Being the closest aide to Xiang Hulin, Adjutant Zhang saw how his General suffered all on his own. Everyone had someone to depend on. But whom was he supposed to look for? He was the loneliest of them all during that period!

    His only sce was his work at that time.

    Adjutant Zhang knew that Xiang Hulin worked so hard just so that he could make his father feel proud of him. Even if they had broken off ties or whatever, he wanted to do something for his father and he thought being a better soldier would be the best choice.

    It might have been only Adjutant Zhang who felt really sorry for Xiang Hulin. He knew what the General had done secretly for everyone. In fact, if it wasn''t because Xiang Hulin had asked for help from a friend back then, his mother would have never found Raelle alive or would have been able to save her at all.

    After all, Madam Xiang''s family was influential and wealthy but her family was based overseas, and not only that, the family was purely involved in the business. All her connections came from her husband. Even Mu Chenyan had more connections and means than her to find Raelle than Madam Xiang did.

    However, Xiang Hulin still was willing to take all the me. Because he thought that me was right. He even thought his mother''s hatred for him was justified. But he was truly hurt by the disappointment he saw in his father''s eyes.

    He was even hesitating whether to knock on the door or not when Xiang Wai rolled her eyes at his behavior and ''helped'' him by pushing open the door and swaggered in as she announced, "Grandpa, I brought Papa with me."

    Xiang Hulin froze when the door was just opened like that and he saw the people inside. Adjutant Zhang had to nudge him from behind to get him back to reality. Xiang Hulin was startled and took a step inside. He walked very slowly towards his father who was in his wheelchair right beside Raelle''s bed.

    "Hello, Father!" he greeted in a soft voice. "How are you?"

    "Is that the question you should be asking me?" retorted Grandfather Xiang looking dissatisfied.

    Xiang Hulin immediately looked at Raelle and asked even more gently, "How are you feeling now, Raelle?"

    "Didn''t you hear about my condition from the doctor already?" Raelle didn''t think there was anything wrong with exposing her father in front of everyone. She believed, it wasmonsense that since Xiang Hulin had been here for so long, he must have heard about her condition.

    Xiang Hulin avoided her gaze, not knowing how to respond to that.

    "I''m sorry for your loss," he said in a low voice sounding really sad. It seemed he was agitated but he didn''t even know how to show his emotions right now. At least, not just in words.

    This was Shui Xian''s first time seeing his father-inw in person but he had to say it was a memorable sight. He didn''t get to see his father-inw''s prestige. All he saw was how he looked like a kid who was ready for a lecture as he stood in front of his father and asionally even sneaked a peek at Raelle. He wondered if this whole family had problems with expressing their emotions? And it was just the worst-case scenario in his wife''s case? Because it certainly seemed like that from what he had seen.

    Even Hyson had to expend some effort to suppress hisughter. He knew it if he dared tough at General Xiang Hulin right now, this General''s dearest sister aka his godmother won''t let him get away with it that easily.

    Both Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin wanted to facepalm right now. How did they not know their father had this side to him? Was it okay for him to look this wronged like he was being bullied? Wah! If anyone asked, they both would refuse to acknowledge that this was their own father. He might not care about his image but they definitely did!

    In the room, everyone''s expressions and emotions varied. Yue Yue was also looking at Xiang Hulin in amusement. She could see why Mu Chenyan always said her brother was cute. And to be honest, she was actually a little intrigued about this General as well. From the moment she had known Mu Chenyan, she had heard that woman talk about two people. Raelle and her dearest Ge!

    As if the world didn''t have anyone else. But it was quite possible that in Mu Chenyan''s world only these two people took the top spot.

 Chapter 683 Hugging Pillow

    <h4>Chapter 683 Hugging Pillow</h4>

    Raelle actually didn''t think that her grandfather would suddenly call for Xiang Hulin. But when he did, she didn''t stop him either. Why would she stop him? She only thought that it seemed her Grandfather''s answer was the same as her. The promise to a dead person could not outweigh the feelings of the person who was still alive.

    Well, whatever, none of that concerned her.

    What really concerned her was that the moment Grandfather Xiang called for his son, he had been looking towards the door waiting for him. His anticipation couldn''t be hidden anymore. Wasn''t it strange that he had been hiding his feelings for years just because of a promise? No matter what, even if he was disappointed in his own son, he was still his only son.

    And blood is always thicker than water.

    "Why do you look like you''re waiting for a scolding?" asked Raelle as she observed Xiang Hulin for a while.

    Xiang Hulin was taken aback when he heard that while Hyson coughed to disguise hisughter. Only his best friend could ask such a question in this situation. Always expect the unexpected from Raelle Xiang. Unexpected was her middle name! And speechless was what she makes you.

    "Rx! Opa didn''t call you here for a scolding," added Raelle not realizing what she was doing. "Right, Opa?"

    Grandfather Xiang''s lips curled up in a loving smile as he nodded his head, "Indeed. Listen to my granddaughter. She is always right. I didn''t call you here for a scolding."

    Xiang Hulin actually felt his heart settling a little bit when he heard the confirmation from his father. He really thought he''d see the disappointment in his father''s eyes once again. After all, he was once again unable to protect his daughter even when he was at the same event as her. Even he was ming himself, he wouldn''t be surprised if his father would do it too.

    But he was surprised to see that there was no disappointment.

    "Opa, why don''t you go home now?" suggested Raelle. She didn''t think this was the right ce of this father and son to have a discussion of any kind. Besides, she also thought there were way too many people here right now. "Take everyone else with you."

    "But..." Grandfather Xiang wanted to argue but seeing Raelle, he stopped. Sigh! He should remember, that he won''t win the argument. She might make it seem like he won but the final winner had always been her!

    "Just go," added Raelle. "I''m not dead yet."

    "YENAY!"

    "I meant I''m fine and breathing," Raelle rephrased her words immediately. She also noticed the way Shui Xian was ring at her. Oho! That was a new sight! He had never given her that look before.

    Did it mean he was angry with her?

    "Just go home," Raelle was still insisting. "I''ll be home soon. There is nothing even wrong with me."

    "You''re staying here until the doctor says otherwise," said Shui Xian.

    "But the doctor said I''m alright," reminded Raelle.

    "But she didn''t say you can leave the hospital," said Shui Xian. "Be good. Stay right where you are." Raelle blinked at him with her nk gaze but Shui Xian avoided her eyes. So what if those eyes had no emotions? He was still gonna sucked into them. It was better to not see it at all!

    "But isn''t it waste of time and money if you insist on keeping me here?" questioned Raelle.

    "I can afford the loss," was Shui Xian''s response.

    "Then who will bear the responsibility of wasting my time?" she asked.

    "I will."

    "How?"

    "However you want."

    "Okay! I''ll think carefully about how to make you pay for it."

    Shui Xian suddenly felt like he fell into some kind of a trap. But then again, all her words were like a trap. He had already fallen for her. What was the big deal in falling into her trap?

    Raelle then turned to her grandfather again, "Opa, why are you still here? Didn''t I tell you to go back home? I''m really fine."

    "I''m going, you heartless brat!"

    Raelle didn''t even think she was being insulted. She just took that as apliment. She pointed at Hyson, "Take your little prince with you."

    "I''m staying right here," said Hyson in defiance. But once Raelle looked over at him, with that one nce, he stood up, "Opa, what are you dawdling for? Let''s go!"

    "B¨¤, you also need to leave," said Raelle.

    Shui Koshing was just silently pretending to be the decoration in the room. But he still got called out. "Me too? Can''t I stay, daughter-inw?"

    "No," refused Raelle. "I''d have sent my husband home for rest if I didn''t need him here."

    "What do you need him for?"

    "He needs to hug me to sleep," answered Raelle matter-of-factly as if that was the most casual thing to say.

    Shui Koshing didn''t even know why he was suddenly served this PDA out of nowhere. But since it was his own son and daughter-inw, he didn''t mind. He just smiled helplessly, "Okay, then. I''ll leave." He patted his son''s shoulder, "Dear son, lucky you! You finally have a purpose in life."

    "And what is that?"

    "Being my daughter-inw''s hugging pillow!" replied Shui Koshing smugly before he left. He was still smiling to himself when he left the room and joined the people who were going back home.

    Raelle was really not willing to let anyone stay there with her and look at her like a patient who needed their attention.

    Especially, she didn''t want to see that sadness they were trying to suppress in her presence. She knew they all were grieving the loss of her child but she didn''t want to see it.

    Shui Xian looked at his wife who slid over and made space for him, "Come over and lie down."

    He didn''t even question anything and went to her side. Taking off his shoes, he got on the bed andid down beside her. Just like he did every night, he opened his arms to hug her. It''s just that today, his arms were embracing her a little too tightly as if he was scared she''ll disappear.

 Chapter 684 Singles

    Chapter 684 Singles

    As Shui Koshing stepped out of the room, he was startled to find that everyone was outside the door. As if they had been waiting for him. He immediately frowned.

    To clear up his confusion, Grandfather Xiang spoke up, "Fai said we should wait here. You''ll be thrown out soon so we''ll take you along."

    Shui Koshing looked at Hyson who grinned and immediately said, "I did not use the word ''thrown out.'' It''s definitely Opa trying to throw me under the bus now."

    Actually, Shui Koshing didn''t mind whoever said. If Grandfather Xiang said, it was more than weed. He was an elder who was like his own father. And if it was said by Hyson, he didn''t mind that either. Who could get angry with him?

    He was actually d that they waited for him. After all, he came with Mu Chenyan, and now that woman was nowhere to be found. He needed a ride back home. And if he called his driver, he''ll have to wait here.

    So, the scene happened to be like this right now. In the front, Grandfather Xiang and Hyson were and everyone else followed behind them.

    Meanwhile, Xiang Hulin was feeling reallyplicated right now. He didn''t even get to stay with his daughter for ten minutes before he was shown the way out. He could only sulk to himself. But the fortunate thing was that he wasn''t alone. He came alone but he was leaving with his father and two of his children. He should be satisfied with this much for today.

    Wasn''t it already a blessing that he got to see Raelle?

    He shouldn''t stretch his luck. What if the string of luck broke and he lost whatever he had right now? That was a terrifying thought. Xiang Hulin shook his head to shake off this thought.

    While he was shaking his head, his eyes actually fell on Yue Yue and he paused. He looked at the woman so intently that even Yue Yue felt his gaze and turned her head to look at him. His eyes widened slightly when she turned her head and faced him. Yue Yue smiled at him politely and turned her head back.

    On the other hand, Xiang Hulin cursed inwardly.

    It was actually very obvious that he recognized her. And he did! Yes, it was his very first time meeting her or seeing her in person, he had seen her before! At least, a photo of her!

    Zhai Kuijun spent years trying to look for this woman. Obviously, Xiang Hulin was one of the people who knew about this fact and he was also someone who helped in that search. But they never found anything rted to her. It was to the point that they all silently assumed that something unforeseen had happened to her.

    However, now this woman was standing right here. He really wanted to pull out his phone and call Zhai Kuijun right now. But before he could do so...

    "Are you checking her out?" asked Shui Koshing as he came to stand between Yue Yue and Xiang Hulin. Yue Yue was like a sister to him. He was of course very protective of her. "General, it''s not your age to check out women."

    "What''s wrong with that?" Unexpectedly the question came from Hyson who was walking in front. He didn''t turn around to learn about the situation as he questioned. And when he finally did turn around, he looked at Shui Koshing, "Uncle Shing, General here is single. I don''t see a reason why he can''t check someone out."

    "He is checking out your mother!"

    Hyson paused and looked at his mother who shrugged. She didn''t even know the situation at all. How was she supposed to answer her son? But she was indeed surprised to hear what Shui Koshing said.

    "That only shows hee has good taste in women," was Hyson''s answer almost choking Shui Koshing. Grandfather Xiang pursed his lips while Hyson continued, "Besides, my mum is single. He is single. I don''t see a problem here." He looked at Grandfather Xiang because he needed arade in arms since Raelle was missing. "What do you say, Opa? Am I wrong?"

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head immediately. Who said he''ll go against his little prince? It was better to just agree with him. And in fact, he also genuinely agreed with what Hyson said.

    "Are you serious right now?" questioned Shui Koshing with an appalled expression.

    "Very serious," said Hyson. He even put his arm around Shui Koshing''s shoulder like talking to a buddy, as he went on, "I say, Uncle Shing, you should also look around. I''m being affected by all the single people around me. If it went on like this, I''ll die single."

    "Little prince, it''s not good to me others for your singlehood,"mented Grandfather Xiang.

    "Did I say something wrong?" questioned Hyson because he refused to believe that he was wrong. "Opa, you look at it yourself. Everyone is single. My mum is single. Yanyan is single. Uncle Shing''s wife died years ago, even though he is single!" He pointed at Xiang Hulin, "My Ellie''s father is also divorced but even he is single!" His eyes moved to Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai, "One of them is eternal single and the other has recently joined the ranks of singles." He snickered, "Heck! Even Brother Jun is single and his father is on his way to bing one." He exaggeratedly sighed, "See? Everyone around me is either single or on the road to bing one. How is this good for my future love life?"

    "I don''t know about the others but I always had a doubt about your love life,"mented Grandfather Xiang in worry. This little prince was really all about nonsense! See how he twisted everything and make it seem like it was the others affecting his dating life? While the truth was, he never had a dating life!

    "Don''t be in doubt, Granduncle! Be confident! He really has no love life!"

 Chapter 685 Singles

    <h4>Chapter 685 Singles</h4>

    As Shui Koshing stepped out of the room, he was startled to find that everyone was outside the door. As if they had been waiting for him. He immediately frowned.

    To clear up his confusion, Grandfather Xiang spoke up, "Fai said we should wait here. You''ll be thrown out soon so we''ll take you along."

    Shui Koshing looked at Hyson who grinned and immediately said, "I did not use the word ''thrown out.'' It''s definitely Opa trying to throw me under the bus now."

    Actually, Shui Koshing didn''t mind whoever said. If Grandfather Xiang said, it was more than weed. He was an elder who was like his own father. And if it was said by Hyson, he didn''t mind that either. Who could get angry with him?

    He was actually d that they waited for him. After all, he came with Mu Chenyan, and now that woman was nowhere to be found. He needed a ride back home. And if he called his driver, he''ll have to wait here.

    So, the scene happened to be like this right now. In the front, Grandfather Xiang and Hyson were and everyone else followed behind them.

    Meanwhile, Xiang Hulin was feeling reallyplicated right now. He didn''t even get to stay with his daughter for ten minutes before he was shown the way out. He could only sulk to himself. But the fortunate thing was that he wasn''t alone. He came alone but he was leaving with his father and two of his children. He should be satisfied with this much for today.

    Wasn''t it already a blessing that he got to see Raelle?

    He shouldn''t stretch his luck. What if the string of luck broke and he lost whatever he had right now? That was a terrifying thought. Xiang Hulin shook his head to shake off this thought.

    While he was shaking his head, his eyes actually fell on Yue Yue and he paused. He looked at the woman so intently that even Yue Yue felt his gaze and turned her head to look at him. His eyes widened slightly when she turned her head and faced him. Yue Yue smiled at him politely and turned her head back.

    On the other hand, Xiang Hulin cursed inwardly.

    It was actually very obvious that he recognized her. And he did! Yes, it was his very first time meeting her or seeing her in person, he had seen her before! At least, a photo of her!

    Zhai Kuijun spent years trying to look for this woman. Obviously, Xiang Hulin was one of the people who knew about this fact and he was also someone who helped in that search. But they never found anything rted to her. It was to the point that they all silently assumed that something unforeseen had happened to her.

    However, now this woman was standing right here. He really wanted to pull out his phone and call Zhai Kuijun right now. But before he could do so...

    "Are you checking her out?" asked Shui Koshing as he came to stand between Yue Yue and Xiang Hulin. Yue Yue was like a sister to him. He was of course very protective of her. "General, it''s not your age to check out women."

    "What''s wrong with that?" Unexpectedly the question came from Hyson who was walking in front. He didn''t turn around to learn about the situation as he questioned. And when he finally did turn around, he looked at Shui Koshing, "Uncle Shing, General here is single. I don''t see a reason why he can''t check someone out."

    "He is checking out your mother!"

    Hyson paused and looked at his mother who shrugged. She didn''t even know the situation at all. How was she supposed to answer her son? But she was indeed surprised to hear what Shui Koshing said.

    "That only shows hee has good taste in women," was Hyson''s answer almost choking Shui Koshing. Grandfather Xiang pursed his lips while Hyson continued, "Besides, my mum is single. He is single. I don''t see a problem here." He looked at Grandfather Xiang because he needed arade in arms since Raelle was missing. "What do you say, Opa? Am I wrong?"

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head immediately. Who said he''ll go against his little prince? It was better to just agree with him. And in fact, he also genuinely agreed with what Hyson said.

    "Are you serious right now?" questioned Shui Koshing with an appalled expression.

    "Very serious," said Hyson. He even put his arm around Shui Koshing''s shoulder like talking to a buddy, as he went on, "I say, Uncle Shing, you should also look around. I''m being affected by all the single people around me. If it went on like this, I''ll die single."

    "Little prince, it''s not good to me others for your singlehood,"mented Grandfather Xiang.

    "Did I say something wrong?" questioned Hyson because he refused to believe that he was wrong. "Opa, you look at it yourself. Everyone is single. My mum is single. Yanyan is single. Uncle Shing''s wife died years ago, even though he is single!" He pointed at Xiang Hulin, "My Ellie''s father is also divorced but even he is single!" His eyes moved to Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai, "One of them is eternal single and the other has recently joined the ranks of singles." He snickered, "Heck! Even Brother Jun is single and his father is on his way to bing one." He exaggeratedly sighed, "See? Everyone around me is either single or on the road to bing one. How is this good for my future love life?"

    "I don''t know about the others but I always had a doubt about your love life,"mented Grandfather Xiang in worry. This little prince was really all about nonsense! See how he twisted everything and make it seem like it was the others affecting his dating life? While the truth was, he never had a dating life!

    "Don''t be in doubt, Granduncle! Be confident! He really has no love life!"

 Chapter 686 No Comparison

    <h4>Chapter 686 No Comparison</h4>

    Hyson was immediately annoyed when he heard that voice and turned to look at the person. Right there, standing tall d in his military uniform, Zhai Yanjun smiled at Hyson and even waved ''hi''.

    "Yanjun!" called out Grandfather Xiang.

    "Hi, Granduncle!" Zhai Yanjun greeted Grandfather Xiang with an intimate smile. And as soon as he looked up at Xiang Hulin, he straightened up and saluted, "General!"

    "Forget about the formalities," said Grandfather Xiang and once he said it, Xiang Hulin couldn''t possibly do anything about it. His own father had spoken up. He just had to silently take the back seat now.

    Zhai Yanjun looked at everything before asking, "How is Saozi?"

    "Alive," replied Hyson.

    Zhai Yanjun tsked at him, "Fai, I didn''t ask you. And if you want to answer so badly, then don''t be sozy and give a proper answer."

    "Don''t want to," retorted Hyson. "Wait! How did you know about Ellie?"

    "My dad called to tell me," answered Zhai Yanjun.

    "And how did he know?"

    "General told him," was Zhai Yanjun''s response.

    Hyson looked at Xiang Hulin and nodded in understanding. "Got it!"

    He was nning on ignoring him until Zhai Yanjun rushed up to his mother, "Ayi! How are you?" He hugged her immediately as he went on, "Did you cry? Why are your eyes so red?" He looked so distressed as he questioned her.

    Hyson couldn''t see it and moved over to pull them apart, "Yah! That''s my mum!"

    "So?"

    Hyson gaped at him in disbelief. What did he mean by that "So?"

    "You''ve been taking advantage of my absence for weeks now. Haven''t you had enough?"

    Zhai Yanjun honestly shook his head, "Far from it." He looked at Hyson smugly as he added, "Besides, I''m still Ayi''s favorite." He looked at Yue Yue who nodded in cooperation.

    Hyson almostughed out loud, and definitely not because he was finding it funny. Far from it!

    "Mum, I came out of you," reminded Hyson.

    "Little Fai, don''t you often say that some connections are far greater than blood ones?" questioned Shui Koshing. "Just like you and Raelle."

    "How can that bepared?" Hyson shot back. "Ellie and I are soulmates! Soulmates!"

    "Oh, by the way, was I hearing things, or just before I came I heard Fai calling me Brother Jun?"

    Zhai Yanjun instantly diverted the topic with a smirk on his face.

    Hyson''s body froze for a while before he took a deep breath and said, "You definitely were hearing things."

    "No, I think I heard it right," insisted Zhai Yanjun.

    "No, as I said, you heard it wrong," said Hyson. "Your hearing is broken. No, I should say your whole system is broken."

    That earned him a pinch from his mother who red at him unhappily. Hyson yelped as if he was in pain and pouted as he said to Grandfather Xiang, "Opa, you see what she did? It isn''t even my fault and she is punishing me."

    "Yue, don''t do that again," said Grandfather Xiang while cating his little prince. "Okay, you don''t have to worry now. She won''t do it. Let''s go home and I''ll ask Chenyan to make your favorite food to make it up to you."

    "That''s a good idea," Hyson instantly cheered up. He looked at his mother and said, "I''ll also tell Yanyan that you pinched me."

    Yue Yue rolled her eyes at her son who was being as petty as he was. Didn''t he think of keeping up some image before people? She typed something on her phone and showed the screen to Zhai Yanjun, "You alsoe home with us?"

    "Can''t do, Ayi," replied Zhai Yanjun. "I came to see Saozi."

    "Well, tough luck. You can''t see her," said Hyson.

    "Why not?"

    "Because she is resting and she threw us all out," answered Hyson.

    "It''s okay. I''ll just wait for her to wake up." Zhai Yanjun''s thoughts were simple he just came to see Raelle and Shui Xian so he should at least see them with his own eyes before leaving. No matter what kind of a friendship he and Shui Xian had Shui Xian needed him right now. So, he should be here as a friend to offer his support. That''s the least he could do.

    Yue Yue turned to her son, ''Where is Chenyan?''

    "Be a good girl, mum. You shouldn''t see where she is. It''s not good for your eyes."

    Yue Yue almost beat him right there and then. She red at him, ''Is that something you should say to your mother?''

    "Did I say something wrong?" asked Hyson as he looked at her and then looked at Grandfather Xiang.

    "Nope, he isn''t wrong," replied Grandfather Xiang.

    ''When will you stop spoiling him?''

    "Never," was the only answer Grandfather Xiang could think of.

    Was it a joke? Why would he stop spoiling Hyson? His grandchildren weren''t willing to be spoiled like this. So, why couldn''t he spoil Hyson? Who made the rule that he couldn''t do so?

    Xiang Wai''s eyes were stuck on Zhai Yanjun and his antics with Hyson. She thought he was unrestrained thest time she saw him at the Xiang Manor but he seemed even more yful today when he was with Hyson. It could be seen how much he was enjoying annoying Hyson but at the same time, there was a doting look in his eyes as he looked at Hyson. As if he was willing to spoil him and pamper him.

    Xiang Wai suddenly felt sour! Yes, she was feeling jealous right now as she looked at Hyson.

    What the hell?! Was it okay to feel this way right now?

    "Is it just me or does my father seem very different?" General Xiang Hulin was questioning himself but his son heard his voice and answered him.

    "Dad, you are not mistaken," said Xiang Weimin. He had been as quiet as he always had been. It was his habit to talk when others were talking so he''d always just listen and rarely add a word or two in between. "Grandfather bes young around Yue Fai."

 Chapter 687 Time-Out

    <h4>Chapter 687 Time-Out</h4>

    Xiang Hulin could only agree with his son''s words. It indeed seemed like his father was getting younger around the boy who was talking non-stop.

    As for the boy who was talking non-stop aka Hyson, he still had a smile ying at the corner of his lips while he bickered with Zhai Yanjun like there was no tomorrow. Let''s ept it, he still thinks this brother of his is a fool. Yes, a fool!

    Hyson doesn''t even take Zhai Yanjun all that seriously. So what if he had all the attention from his mother? Did it really matter that much to Hyson? Not really! He''d be sadder if the person whom Zhai Yanjun snatched was Raelle. Or even Yanyan and Opa.

    But he had his own reasons for talking so much nonsense and entertaining everywhere. It''s not like he couldn''t feel the gloomy aura around everyone here. He had to do something to disperse it. Or else, how will he face Raelle?

    *Ring!*

    Hyson lifted his hand to stop Zhai Yanjun from speaking. As he pulled out his phone and looked at the caller id, he said, "Time-out! I have to take this call."

    "Who takes a time-out in arguments?"

    "I do," Hyson stuck his tongue out at Zhai Yanjun as he walked to the side and picked up the call. "Sister Xin, didn''t we just talk like an hour ago?"

    "A lot has changed in one hour," came the response from the other side.

    "What''s wrong?"

    "Why don''t you check the trending topics of the day?" suggested Li Xinxin.

    Hyson frowned but still said, "Okay, hold on a minute." He put the phone call on hold and browsed through the trending topics. And surprisingly, he found his name there.

    How did he get there when he didn''t even do anything?

    So, what happened was thatst night when he took the flight someone took his photo and posted it online questioning, "Am I tripping, or is that really our little brother Hyson?" The post was originally not that popr but in the morning, it picked up the heat. Some people said he just looked simr to Hyson and some imed, it was him.

    Until now, there was still an argument going on whether that was Hyson or not. And the reason was simple, it was the first time for fans to see Hyson in such a state. It''s not like they hadn''t seen him in a disheveled state or in casual clothes. It was his expressions. He looked so serious and the bright light in his eyes was missing. He looked kinda scary in that picture.

    Hyson felt a headacheing. Did he look scary? To him, he thought he looked like he was scared and his whole world was ending. Howe fans thought he looked scary and yet handsome? Was something wrong with their eyes?

    "Let''s not respond to it," said Hyson to his manager. "If we don''t respond, it means it''s just someone who looks like me."

    "Are you sure about that?"

    "Or else? Do you want me toe out and clear this up? I don''t think it''s necessary. I''m getting free publicity, there is no need for me to confirm or deny anything."

    "That''s what I thought," said Li Xinxin.

    "Then why did you call me?"

    "To remind you to please cover up your face when you''re out," answered Li Xinxin.

    "Alright," agreed Hyson. He also knew he made a blunderst night. But he had nothing on his mind at that time except for getting back home.

    On the other side, Zhai Yanjun held Yue Yue''s hands and told her, "You should go home now. I''lle to see you when I have time."

    Yue Yue typed on her phone, ''Should I send some food for you here?''

    Zhai Yanjun wanted to reject but agreed, "Okay."

    Yue Yue was instantly happy to hear that and caressed his face before she looked where Hyson was standing.

    "What''s wrong with him?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "It might be about this," said Xiang Wai as she showed him the phone. "He was photographedst night at the airport."

    Zhai Yanjun first looked at the phone screen and then at her. Xiang Wai looked back at him and didn''t react. What was he looking at?

    "What? He is famous," said Xiang Wai. "I didn''t even have to search to find him. He is like a superstar."

    "He doesn''t think so," said Xiang Weimin. "He doesn''t even act like one."

    "Yeah. He acts more like a cartoon,"mented Xiang Wai.

    "What did you say?" Zhai Yanjun stared at her in disbelief. "How can you call my brother, a cartoon?"

    Xiang Wai stared back at him. She didn''t think he''d react in this manner. And what did he just say? His brother? When did Zhai Yanjun get a brother? Howe she didn''t know about that?

    "No one is allowed to call my little prince a cartoon," came Grandfather Xiang''s voice.

    "Sorry, Grandpa," said Xiang Wai. She shouldn''t have gotten jealous of Hyson and call him a cartoon even if he acts like one. "I won''t say it again."

    Xiang Weimin rubbed her head, "He is more like an adorable teddy bear. So, you don''t have to call him a cartoon."

    "Even you?" Xiang Wai mouthed at her brother who shrugged. He was just being honest right now. Xiang Wai again looked at Hyson with her eyes narrowed. Oh, this boy was really making her want to do something she''ll definitely regret. Damnit! Why was she so affected by this cheery ball of sunshine?

    Wait! Was it really because he was a cheery ball of sunshine? And her darkness was not able to handle this bright boy? She thought this was very possible.

    Shaking her head, she reminded herself to not be affected by Hyson. She had to keep her calm and not let her inner darkness make her do anything impulsive. She had to be the smart one here and not harbor any evil in her heart.

 Chapter 688 How Did You Know?

    <h4>Chapter 688 How Did You Know?</h4>

    Meanwhile, while Raelle thought she''d be peacefully sleeping in the arms of her husband, she was knocked on her head. She opened her eyes and blinked at Shui Xian. Her big eyes showed her confusion vividly. Shui Xian found the expression so adorable that he almost softened up but immediately he held up his resolve!

    No way was he going to let this matter go.

    "Hubby..." she called out.

    "You should be d that I can''t do anything else to you," said Shui Xian. "Or else I''d have told you the consequences of talking nonsense."

    "When did I?" she asked.

    "Just now, who was the one who said she isn''t dead yet?" Raelle immediately shut up. She finally was also reminded of that angry re that Shui Xian had thrown at her at that time. It was the very first time he looked at her with such an expression. And as always, Raelle had weed that new expression. She always liked to discover Shui Xian''s expressions, and this one was no different for her.

    "I wasn''t talking nonsense though," said Raelle. "Aren''t I alive? If I was dead, I''d have stopped breathing and..." Before she could continue, he pinched her nose and didn''t let her speak.

    He really couldn''t do anything else to her. What could he possibly do to teach her a good lesson? It''s not like he could beat her. His heart was already shuddering at the memory of her tears that he saw today. He felt like he was scarred for life. Yes, definitely scarred for life. He was willing to do everything and anything to make sure that those tears never appear again.

    They scorched his heart.

    Taking a deep breath, he said, "Darling, please choose your words wisely. I have a very weak heart. It gets hurt and scared very easily." He pressed his lips against her forehead as he continued, "And I can''t even imagine losing you."

    Raelle nodded her head and said, "Okay. I''ll keep that in mind before speaking."

    "Thank you," he said.

    Raelle ced her hand on his cheek and asked, "Does it hurt?"

    "Huh?"

    "B¨¤ pped you so hard," she said. "It must have hurt."

    Shui Xian shook his head, "Not that much."

    "But it''s all red," said Raelle. And she was telling the truth. Even now, his cheek was red and slightly swollen. However, he really didn''t think it hurt. At least, it didn''t hurt as much as knowing that she was in the hospital or as much as knowing that he lost his chance to see that child of his ever again.

    Thinking of that, his eyes dimmed immediately.

    Raelle noticed that change and asked, "What are you thinking?"

    Shui Xian held her hand that she ced against his face and brought it to his lips. He dropped soft kisses on her fingers as he answered, "Nothing. I''m thinking about what should I cook for you to help you recover fast."

    "You''re gonna cook yourself?" asked Raelle. Even if she knew he was lying and avoiding her question, she didn''t insist on knowing the truth. Perhaps, deep down she knew what was on his mind. But she wasn''t willing to say it out loud just as much as he wasn''t.

    "Why? I can''t cook for you?" asked Shui Xian. "Haven''t I done it before?"

    "But we were on kind of a vacation back then," said Raelle. "Now, we are home."

    "So? I can cook for you whenever you want. It''s just that my wife is not even a demanding person. She doesn''t ask for anything. What am I supposed to do about that?"

    "I did ask for something," said Raelle.

    "Oh? What did you ask for?"

    "Hugs," she answered. "You can give me more kisses as well. I don''t mind."

    Shui Xian chuckled softly and kissed her face saying, "Just this much? See? You are really easily satisfied."

    Raelle didn''t think she was easily satisfied though. Was she? It seemed she''d have to think about this again.

    "So, what will you cook?" asked Raelle.

    "Anything you want," he replied.

    "But I can eat anything, you know that."

    Shui Xian sighed, "And again, the thinking job is mine."

    "You should do a good job then. Thinking about what to eat is troublesome. I''d rather not think about it at all."

    "Wifey, I think the rtionship between you and ''trouble'' is a lot closer than you and I."

    "Is it?"

    "It is," he insisted.

    Raelle buried her face in his chest as she said, "But isn''t it good enough that I don''t find anything rted to you troublesome?"

    "Oh, I count that as my blessing," said Shui Xian. "You should close your eyes and go to sleep."

    "You should too," she said. "You haven''t slept all night because of me."

    "It doesn''t matter, I''m not tired."

    "Liar."

    Shui Xian smiled at her and said, "Okay, I''m a liar. But I really can''t sleep right now. You go to sleep, I''ll eventually fall asleep while looking at you."

    "How am I supposed to sleep when it''s not my sleeping hours?" she questioned. "This is another reason why I avoid hospitals. They always tell you to rest and sleep."

    Shui Xian chuckled, "If you try, you''ll fall asleep."

    "Today is Saturday," she said.

    "Yes, it is."

    "What a bummer."

    "What happened?"

    "I had a gift for you," she told him. "I was supposed to receive that today. And I was gonna take you out for dinner and give it to you. Everything was nned."

    This was the first time Shui Xian was even hearing about it and he was surprised.

    "I don''t need any gift," he said.

    "Now, don''t say I''m your most precious gift."

    Shui Xian gasped, "How did you know?"

    Raelle gave him a look and in return, he smiled at her and rubbed his nose against hers, "It''s true. You are my biggest and most precious gift. I really don''t want anything. I''m just happy that Heaven didn''t take you from you."

    In reply, Raelle didn''t say anything. Usually, she''d sleep in the same posture. Today, she hugged Shui Xian back and closed her eyes.

 Chapter 689 Youâ€™ve Changed

    <h4>Chapter 689 You''ve Changed</h4>

    Perhaps, Raelle was really tired, she soon fell asleep while hugging Shui Xian. He heard her long and even breathing but didn''t stop caressing her back. His eyes were closed but his thoughts were a mess. Even when he held her in his arms, he felt like he lost something today. But that was true. He lost big time.

    He lost the chance to see a child who would have looked like him and Raelle. He didn''t know if they''d have another child in their life but one thing could never be changed. The child they lost today would nevere back to them. And this reminder really hurt.

    Even though he hadn''t slept all night, he still wasn''t able to sleep. He kept his eyes closed and tried to rx but he was still wide awake after trying for a couple of hours. Sighing to himself, he opened his eyes and looked at Raelle''s sleeping face. Dropping a kiss on her forehead, he tried to get up but felt a tug at his shirt. He looked down to find that she had fisted his shirt tightly all this while.

    Shui Xian didn''t know why at this very moment he was reminded of the way her tears fell down, but it almost made him tear up once again. Shui Xian slowly uncurled her fingers and put her hand on her side. He went to the bathroom and washed his face. Running the wet fingers through his hair, he walked out.

    As soon as he stepped out of the ward, he saw Zhai Yanjun who had been waiting patiently all this while. Seeing the door open, he looked up and once his eyes met Shui Xian, Zhai Yanjun stopped.

    "When did youe?" asked Shui Xian.

    "Just a while ago," answered Zhai Yanjun.

    Obviously, Shui Xian didn''t believe his words. Even if Zhai Yanjun didn''t tell him that he had been waiting for hours, Shui Xian could still understand that Zhai Yanjun had been here for more than just a while.

    To be very honest, Shui Xian was touched.

    For a while, there was only silence between them and both didn''t know what to say. Zhai Yanjun was tongue-tied. Well, he had never been really good with words because of his introverted personality. It was only around Hyson that he''d be a chatterbox who loved to banter for no reason.

    But at times like these, he was finding it difficult to find the right words. What was he even supposed to say? Was he supposed to offer his condolences or was he supposed tofort Shui Xian? Whichever one it was, he was bad at both. He could only offer his support in silence.

    "How is Saozi?" he finally found something to ask.

    "She is doing fine," answered Shui Xian. "She is resting now or else, I''d have let you meet her."

    "It''s okay," said Zhai Yanjun. "I''ll see her when she is awake. She needs rest. So, I won''t disturb her."

    Shui Xian looked at him and said, "Thank you foring!"

    Zhai Yanjun gave him a look, "Is there even a need to say that between us? You alwayse whenever I need you, so you should already know I''ll always be there for you as well."

    Shui Xian pulled out a small but sincere smile of gratitude, "That''s very reassuring."

    Again, silence followed and both just stood there, not knowing what to do.

    "Do..." Zhai Yanjun opened his mouth to ask, "Do you wanna talk about it?"

    "We usually talk over drinks," said Shui Xian trying to sound yful and casual.

    Zhai Yanjun bit his lips and said, "Wait here."

    Seeing him leaving, Shui Xian wondered out loud, "Don''t tell me this idiot is gonna bring alcohol inside the hospital."

    But thankfully, Zhai Yanjun hadn''t gone that far yet. He just pulled Shui Xian to a side to sit down and offered him a cup of coffee saying, "It''s not the right time or ce for drinks. So, make do with coffee. Besides, you look like you need it badly right now."

    Shui Xian silently took the cup of coffee from him and took a sip. Maybe he really needed it after tossing about so much sincest night.

    "How are you?" asked Zhai Yanjun which surprised Shui Xian a little. No one else had asked him that question today except for his own wife. He didn''t think Zhai Yanjun, the person who was oblivious to even his own feelings most of the time would actually be the second person to ask him that question.

    "I think you''re asking that question to the wrong person," said Shui Xian.

    "No, I''m asking the right person," said Zhai Yanjun. "I truly want to know how you''re doing. I know that it''s Saozi who had a miscarriage but you''re her husband. That child was also yours. You don''t expect me to believe that it didn''t have any effect on you, right?" Zhai Yanjun took a pause and added, "In fact, I think this affects you more than Saozi. You''re going through double suffering. One is the loss of your child and the other is seeing Saozi in pain. I know how emotional of a person you had always been. There is no way, you''re having an easy time right now."

    Shui Xian was even more surprised when he heard Zhai Yanjun''s conjectures. "You''ve changed," hemented.

    "Me? How?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "You just have changed," was Shui Xian''s reply. He didn''t exin himself in detail. He didn''t think there was any other exnation he could give right now. "You''ll have to figure it out yourself."

    "Then it''s a good change or a bad one?" asked Zhai Yanjun further.

    "I think it''s a very good change," replied Shui Xian. "Makes you seem more human."

    "Was I not human before this?"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "That''s not what I meant. What I mean is, now it seems you''re willing to get involved with people around you and you''re learning to not only interact with them just for the sake of survival, you''re more like trying to understand them and be close to them."

 Chapter 690 Obey

    <h4>Chapter 690 Obey</h4>

    Zhai Yanjun didn''t even think he had changed. He knew he was a withdrawn person but he had done everything to change. Especially after joining the army where he had to work with hisrades in arms. If there was no brotherhood in the squadron, things won''t end well. After all, a lone wolf doesn''t always survive in the army.

    But Shui Xian could definitely see his changes.

    "Don''t avoid the topic," said Zhai Yanjun. "I''m worried about you."

    "Why are you worried?" asked Shui Xian. "You''re one of the people who exactly know that a child had never been in my life n."

    Zhai Yanjun red at him unhappily, "Don''t give me that crap. I know you never really looked forward to having a child, but that doesn''t mean losing one won''t hurt you. Especially when thest time we met, you told me how you''re curious to find out what a mini Raelle would look like."

    "Hey! I was definitely talking about my wife''s childhood," Shui Xian defended himself.

    "I don''t believe you," said Zhai Yanjun.

    Shui Xian sighed in the end and decided to drop his act as he said honestly, "I feel like I lost a part of myself. It''s hurting badly. It hurts, even more, to know that this child left an emptiness in my wife. But the truth is, I also feel empty inside." His voice lowered as he continued, "Maybe Heaven is punishing me for not wanting to have a child."

    "Don''t talk nonsense now," said Zhai Yanjun. "Heaven doesn''t have all that much time to pay attention to your silly thoughts." He patted Shui Xian''s shoulder and added, "I don''t know what to say to make you feel better. I don''t even think there are any words that can be right for this moment. After all, I can''t just tell you that you''ll have more children so just move on. That''ll be unfair to the child you lost. But I do that you can''t continue to feel this way. It''s okay to mourn and be sad. But you do have to move on and look forward." He looked at Shui Xian intently before continuing, "I know Saozi is still more important to you. So, you''ll have to stay strong for her. She needs you more now."

    "I know," said Shui Xian. He understood all those words and he also agreed with those words. He indeed had to move on and look forward to his future with Raelle. He''ll only let himself be sad when Raelle isn''t around. He didn''t want her to worry about anything.

    And he had to do everything he could to fill the emptiness in Raelle''s life.

    ...

    On the other side, Raelle also woke up shortly after Shui Xian went out. She looked at the empty space beside her in silence. Did her husband just run away while she was sleeping? That''s unforgivable!

    Of course, that doesn''t mean she''ll go find trouble for her husband. If he left her side, it meant he had something to do. She can understand that. After all, she was the Goddess of understanding!

    Even if you''re being the most irresponsible person in the world, she''ll still try to understand you first before taking any actions. And the actions depended solely on her understanding as well.

    *BZzzz...*

    Raelle looked over at the table and found the phone vibrating. It was definitely not her phone. She knew the phone belonged to Tang Hebe that Cloe had passed to her before leaving. Raelle picked up the phone and looked at the caller id.

    "Nanny Mi." was written on the screen.

    Raelle contemted whether to take the call or not but thinking about how the other person must be worried, she decided to take the call. But even before she could speak, the other person started speaking in panic, "Miss Tang, where have you been? Young Master is refusing to eat without. Last night, he woke up from a dream and cried for an hour. I couldn''t do anything and then he refused to go back to sleep as well insisting on waiting for you toe back. In the end, he is still young so he fell asleep when he got tired. This morning, he still was waiting for you but you''re nowhere to be found. Now, he is insisting on going out to look for you. I don''t even know what to do." The woman on the call finally took a breath before asking, "Miss Tang, why aren''t you saying anything?"

    "The other person can only sleep if you give them a chance to do so," replied Raelle.

    The woman on the phone who was called, Nanny Mi was quite surprised to hear an unfamiliar voice. "Where is Miss Tang? Isn''t this her phone? Did she lose her phone?"

    "She didn''t lose her phone," answered Raelle. "And your Miss Tang can''t take the phone for now."

    "Why? What''s wrong?"

    "There was an ident," told Raelle.

    "What?!" The person on the other side of the phone had a huge reaction once she heard that. Raelle even heard the sound of something shattering in the background. "What happened to Miss Tang? Where is she? How is she? How did it happen all of a sudden? Oh no, what should I tell Young Master? I... I..." The woman choked and started crying leaving Raelle speechless at this rare moment.

    This nanny''s reaction was really something else. Something Raelle was not expecting for sure.

    "How about you stop crying first?" suggested Raelle. "It''s not helping anyone," she said honestly. "As for Tang Hebe, her condition is stable and out of danger. Once she wakes up, I''ll contact you. For now, it''s not good to bring a child to the hospital. It''ll affect his mental health. You just tell him that his Mom is busy and can''te to him for now."

    The nanny even forgot to cry once she heard Raelle''s calm voice. She didn''t even know why she felt like she was taking orders and she had only one option and that was to obey. What a weird thought.

 Chapter 691 Going Alone

    <h4>Chapter 691 Going Alone</h4>

    "What happened to your face?" asked Zhai Yanjun as they were walking back towards Raelle''s ward. It wasn''t that he hadn''t noticed the redness before but he didn''t ask. Now, he couldn''t hold it in.

    "Is it that obvious?" asked Shui Xian. "It didn''t even hurt all that much back then."

    "Did Uncle Shing...?" He didn''t finish but the insinuation was obvious.

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "Who else would dare touch my face?"

    "Saozi dares to do so," replied Zhai Yanjun honestly.

    Shui Xian red at him unhappily, "And do you think my wife will do something like this to me?"

    "If you really touched her bottom line, she might," said Zhai Yanjun as he shrugged. He really thought one could expect anything from Zhai Yanjun.

    "You''re clearly mistaken about my wife," said Shui Xian. "She doesn''t raise her hand. And she doesn''t have to either. I can take care of everything for her."

    "Uncle shouldn''t have pped you," said Zhai Yanjun. "I understand that he cares about Saozi but you''re also his son. He should understand that you''d be in agony as well."

    "Forget it. I don''t me him," was Shui Xian''s reply.

    Zhai Yanjun looked at him, "And that must be because you think you deserved that p?"

    Shui Xian gaped at Zhai Yanjun, "Why are you getting so sharp? It''s dangerous."

    Zhai Yanjun shook his head once he heard that. He''d be a real fool if he didn''t understand Shui Xian this much after all that time. Especially since Shui Xian always wore his emotions on his sleeves. It was quite easy to understand him. He wasn''t like Xiang Wai - a mystery Zhai Yanjun couldn''t seem to solve.

    Shui Xian opened the door of the ward and stepped inside. When he noticed that Raelle was awake, he said to Zhai Yanjun, "You cane in and see her. Don''t wait around any more."

    Zhai Yanjun walked in and looked at Raelle who waved her hand at him, "Hi, Captain!"

    Zhai Yanjun subconsciously smiled at her greeted and followed suit, "Hi, Saozi! You really know how to worry people."

    "That was not my intention," said Raelle.

    "I know," replied Zhai Yanjun. "How are you, Saozi?"

    "I am good," she replied. And Shui Xian breathed a sigh of relief once he noticed how she wasn''t just saying that. She really seemed to be fine now. "But Captain, is it okay for you toe empty-handed to see a patient?"

    Zhai Yanjun looked down at his empty hands and bit his tongue. "I came in a hurry. It really skipped my mind. How about I get you something now?"

    "Forget it," said Raelle. "I''m d you came." Zhai Yanjun looked up at her in surprise as she continued, "Thank you foring here for my husband. I''ll always remember that."

    Zhai Yanjun''s smile stiffened before it bloomed into a grin, "Saozi is now making me feel like an outsider. I might not be the best of friends in the world, but I ain''t that bad."

    Raelle nodded her head, "Yes, you''re not that bad. For this, I''m finally gonna cross out the grudge between us."

    Zhai Yanjun ced his hand on his chest, "Finally! I feel like kneeling before you right now to thank you for being magnanimous."

    "I don''t mind you kneeling but since you''re my husband''s friend, I''ll let you off the hook."

    Shui Xian chuckled when he noticed how these interacted and Zhai Yanjun couldn''t stopughing as well. Well, there was definitely only one Raelle who could still be in the mood to y around like this after a tragedy. But then again, she never seemed like someone who would live in yesterday.

    She once told Shui Xian that she didn''t like looking at the past. The page of life that she had turned, she doesn''t like revisiting it. It didn''t mean the pain of that past will be forgotten but she won''t let that one incident overwhelm her life.

    "Saozi, you have to get well soon. After you get discharged, I''ll take you on a date."

    "Hey!"

    Zhai Yanjun smiled at Shui Xian''s reaction, "What? Don''t friends go on dates as well? It''s not the kind of date you''re thinking about."

    "Oh, where are we going then?" inquired Raelle.

    "Didn''t you want to go to a shooting range?" reminded Zhai Yanjun. "I''ll take you to y with the real guns."

    Shui Xian looked at him like he was an idiot, "You seriously want to take my wife to such a dangerous ce?"

    "She is interested in guns," said Zhai Yanjun matter-of-factly. And obviously, Shui Xian hadn''t forgotten the time when Raelle had taken Zhai Yanjun''s gun without him even realizing it. And he also remembered her interest but back then his thoughts were different. Now, he was just like Mu Chenyan. He really thought it was a dangerous thing for Raelle.

    But unlike Mu Chenyan, he didn''t have the heart to refuse Raelle.

    "I want to go," said Raelle immediately making her stand clear. "Hubby, you cane with me and make sure I''m safe. But I want to go."

    Shui Xian relented almost without suspense, "Okay, you get well soon first. I''ll go with you."

    "We can Fai with us as well," suggested Zhai Yanjun.

    Raelle looked at Zhai Yanjun, "Are you sure the n is for me and not just another trick to take Hyson out?"

    "Saozi, you''re making me seem like a scheming person."

    *Knock! Knock!*

    The door opened and a member of Raelle''s security team appeared at the door who informed. He first bowed to Raelle respectfully before informing her, "Missy, Miss Tang is awake. The doctor said you can meet her now. Would you like to see her now orter?"

    "I''ll go now," said Raelle as she tried to get up but Shui Xian pushed her back.

    "No."

    "Hubby, I''m not a porcin doll. I won''t break down."

    "Still no," was Shui Xian''s answer.

    Raelle didn''t say anything after that, she just continued to look up at Shui Xian. As her eyes continued to look into his eyes, he cursed mentally before sighing out, "Fine. Let''s go. I''ll go with you."

    "Of course, you''re going with me," said Raelle. "Who said I was going alone?"

 Chapter 692 I Want To

    <h4>Chapter 692 I Want To</h4>

    Cloe hung up the call when Cui Xukun woke up and looked at her sitting on the recliner in the room. He asked groggily, "Didn''t you sleep?"

    "I did," answered Cloe. "But I couldn''t sleep much."

    "Why?" asked Cui Xukun as he sat up and suddenly realized how dumb that question was. He should already know why she couldn''t sleep. "Are you really that worried about your boss?"

    "I told you, Kun. She is more than just a boss," said Cloe. "She made me who I am. Although she always says, she didn''t do anything. It''s all because I had the will to be stronger. But it''s the truth that she was always that push I needed to walk towards being strong and independent."

    "I have never seen another boss and employee rtionship like yours," hemented.

    Cloe smiled at that, "You''ll never see it again. There is only one Raelle Xiang. And tough luck for others but that Raelle Xiang is my Chief."

    "You sound very proud," said Cui Xukun. "It''s almost like I''m talking to Shui Xian all over again. He also bragged a lot about his wife."

    "I''m going to wash up," said Cloe and went to take a shower.

    Cui Xukun''s phone rang and he picked up the call, "Hello, my pretty sister!"

    There was silence on the other end for a good while before Cui Xuqing spoke up, "Little brother, have you really forgotten that you have a sister? I''m offended by how many times you have been forgetting our appointments."

    Cui Xukun bit his lips and felt like he was really asking for a beating now. "I''m so sorry, Jie!"

    "Save it!" came Cui Xuqing''s voice. She sighed heavily, "I should be content knowing that you finally found someone who is willing to put up with your irresponsible self."

    "Jie, I''m not that irresponsible," Cui Xukun tried to defend himself. "Just a little forgetful."

    "Is this your age to be so forgetful?" asked Cui Xuqing. "Don''t answer. I don''t wanna hear it. Just answer me. I''ll only forgive you if you''re with your girlfriend."

    "I am," answered Cu Xukun.

    "Oh. Then I''ll drop this matter."

    Thinking of something, Cui Xukun asked, "Jie, brother-inw was supposed to attend Minister Chen''s banquetst night, right? Did you go with him?"

    "Oh, we didn''t go," she answeredzily.

    "No? Why?"

    "Because Sammy again got a fever," said Cui Xuqing sounding worried. "It wasn''t really high fever. But you know, Soren."

    "Yes, he is the best father."

    "He isn''t all that great," said Cui Xuqing but Cui Xukun already knew she must be smiling proudly right now. "But why did you suddenly ask about this?"

    "It''s nothing," said Cui Xukun. "Then I''lle to see Sammy when I get the chance."

    "Whatever," said Cui Xuqing. "I don''t care if youe or not. But if you bring your girlfriend, you''re most wee toe."

    Cui Xukun shook his head, "Jie, it''ll be a bit difficult to bring her for now."

    "Hm? Why? What happened? You sound not right. Tell Jie what happened, I''ll help you."

    Cui Xukun smiled when he heard that from his sister. So, no matter how much she beats him or scolds him, she was still his elder sister who raised him like a son. Always worried about him and always was so naggy as well. Oh, but he was really happy with her naggy self.

    "There is a situation but I can''t tell you for now," said Cui Xukun. "But you don''t have to worry so much."

    "If you say it like that it makes me more worried," said Cui Xuqing. "By the way, you could have met my girlfriend if you had gone to the banquetst night." ''And maybe, just maybe, everything could have been avoided.'' Of course, he didn''t say thest sentence out loud. Those were just his own thoughts that he kept to himself.

    "It seems I''m out of luck,"mented Cui Xuqing. "I don''t know what''s wrong but you take care of her. And stay with her if she needs you. No, stay with her even if she doesn''t need you."

    "Alright," said Cui Xukun. "You also take care of yourself. Don''t take stress because of Sammy''s health."

    Cui Xuqing hummed in response before she hung up the phone.

    Cloe just stepped out of the bathroom when Cui Xukun''s call was over. She looked over at him before she looked through her wardrobe to find an outfit. "Was that your sister?"

    "Yup," answered Cui Xukun.

    "She always calls you to check up on you,"mented Cloe casually. At least it seemed casual but Cloe knew deep down that she was actually a bit envious of him. His sister really cared about him and loved him so much. It was obvious to anyone.

    "She is a worrywart," said Cui Xukun. "But it''s not just about me. She just loves to worry about everyone around her. Raising me like a mother, she has be one. A naggy one at that."

    "Are you going somewhere?" asked Cui Xukun. Cloe nodded her head. "Where?"

    "There is a parcel I have to collect," replied Cloe.

    "Parcel?"

    "Well, it''s a gift."

    "A gift?"

    Cloe nodded again, "Chief ordered something and it was supposed to be delivered today. Since I''m the contact person, I just got the call. I have to go over and sign some documents before collecting the gift."

    "Who did she buy a gift for?"

    "Of course, it''s for her husband," said Cloe.

    "She really knows how to pamper her husband."

    Cloe chuckled at his words, "She doesn''t just know how to pamper her husband. She likes to pamper everyone she calls family. In fact, she doesn''t shy away from pampering me as well. She is just differently wired. She thinks she is the overbearing CEO and she has to show her might by pampering everyone."

    "That''s a very unique way of showing her might," said Cui Xukun. "Give me a minute. I''ll wash up and then I''lle with you."

    "You don''t have to," said Cloe in a soft voice.

    "But I want to," he said and patting her face, he entered the bathroom to wash up.

 Chapter 693 Itâ€™s A Secret

    <h4>Chapter 693 It''s A Secret</h4>

    Cloe was actually in a much better mood now than the time when she came back from the hospital. And knowing that her boyfriend wanted to apany her, she was in an even better mood.

    She was humming to herself as she changed her clothes and styled her hair and did her make-up. Deep down she knew she''d have been in a worse condition if Cui Xukun hadn''t been there with her. She''d have really broken downpletely at the hospital where she was feeling really helpless.

    The thought of Raelle''s blood-soaked gown was still haunting her mind but she was trying to suppress it. She''d have been really cursing Raelle right now if she received the call to pick up Raelle''s parcel at any other time. After all, it was the weekend. And while was nothing new for Raelle to make her work on weekends, that didn''t mean Cloe wouldn''t grumble about it.

    However, today had to be a rare time when she was happy to do something for Raelle.

    Her phone rang on the table and she put down her make-up brush as she walked over to get it. Looking at the caller id, she almost had the urge to throw the phone away or break it. It couldn''t be helped. Today, she really didn''t have the patience for this.

    She took a deep breath to settle her emotions before she took the call and said, "I sent you the money, mother."

    "I received it," came the reply. "Do you think we are beggars? Are you giving us alms? What''s with the amount of money you sent? Do you think it''s enough for our family?"

    Cloe sneered to herself. This was her mother. Again, she was all about money. She never would even bother to ask how she was even doing. She had called her after over a month and it was still about money.

    "Don''t you know that your father''s health has been deteriorating? We have to spend so much money on him. And here you are sending us these alms?" Her mother was still going on and on about this.

    See? This was the reason why she felt envious of Cui Xukun earlier. No matter when his sister would call him or how much she''d scold him, she''d still be showing her love, care, and concern about her brother. And even if Cui Xukun''s parents hadn''t been around year-round, she had heard how they''d call and inquire about his health and how he was doing?

    Then howe her parents weren''t even concerned?

    Even her Chief''s father who might have seen his daughter for the first time in life was so concerned that he spent the whole night at the hospital. How was she so unlucky then?

    "Mom, I have a question for you," spoke Cloe in a soft voice. She didn''t sound angry or annoyed at all. If anything, she seemed rather numb right now. She really thought there was no point in being annoyed about this at all. Wasn''t she familiar with this already? She should be used to it all. "Am I really your daughter?" She finally asked the question that''s been bothering her.

    "What nonsense are you talking about now?" Her mother retorted.

    "If I am your daughter, then why don''t you treat me like one? Why do you always have to treat me like a bank card?" She took a pause and added, "The amount of money I sent you is the same you''ll be receiving from now on. I''m not your only child. I don''t owe you anything. If you treat me like a daughter, I''ll still continue to send you money. But if you didn''t stop treating me like your personal credit card, then I''m sorry, forget that you even have a daughter named Cloe Jones!"

    After saying that, she hung up the call. Oh, that felt good. She should have listened to Raelle long ago. In the name of being filial, she''d been squeezed enough.

    And it wasn''t like she was refusing to give her parents'' money. The amount she sent was enough for them to livevishly in their old age. But if they wanted to squander all that money on their other kids, then she couldn''t do anything about it. She wasn''t responsible for them.

    Cui Xukun had long washed up and changed his clothes. But when he was about toe out of the bathroom, he heard Cloe on the phone and decided to step back inside. He didn''t think it was appropriate to eavesdrop on her like this. Especially when he didn''t know much about Cloe''s family.

    He found it weird how she never talked about her family but he never questioned either. Now, it seemed it was really not a good topic to bring up.

    "I''m ready!" he came out once he was sure that she hung up the call. "Shall we leave now?"

    Cloe moved her eyes away from her phone and looked at Cui Xukun. She looked at his clothes and said, "Why do I feel like you have started taking my ce as yours?"

    "Isn''t it the same?" asked Cui Xukun shamelessly. "Whatever is mine is yours. And whatever is yours is still yours, it''s just that I''d love to have a small space in your life."

    "Shameless!"mented Cloe. She shook her head and forgot all about the phone call. Her family had long lost importance in her life. They weren''t important enough for her to spoil her mood or her day for them. When her happiness or unhappiness didn''t affect them, why should she be thinking about them?

    "How about we eat something on the way?" suggested Cui Xukun as they stepped out of the apartment. "You haven''t eaten anything sincest night."

    Cloe touched her stomach that had shrunken and nodded her head, "Sounds like a good idea. I almost forgot that I was hungry."

    Cui Xukun chuckled at her words. It seemed she really forgot that she was hungry. She might have felt hungry at one point sincest night but at that time, she had something else more important on her mind. Later, her hunger waspletely forgotten.

    "Then what should we eat and where should we go to eat?" Cui Xukun seemed to be thinking out loud as he pulled out his phone to search and see which ce was best to eat. It was already lunchtime, so they couldn''t just eat steamed buns.

    "There is a noodle shop here," said Cloe. "Let''s just eat there. I feel like eating tomato noodle soup."

    Cui Xukun didn''t think he''d hear that from her. What was so good about tomato noodle soup? Okay, that was the bestfort food but still! What was so good about it that you''d want to eat it for lunch? And especially when your handsome boyfriend is with you? Is it okay for you to take your handsome boyfriend so lightly?

    Of course, he didn''t voice out his grumbling. He silently followed her and sat down in the restaurant to eat the tomato noodle soup.

    However, once their portion was served and Cui Xukun looked at Cloe''s bright smile as she slurped the noodle, he smiled to himself. Oh, it wasn''t that there was anything special about the tomato noodle soup, it was the person who apanied you to eat it. Because even when he took the first bite, he felt like this was the best bowl of tomato noodle soup he had ever had in his life. What a strange thought that was!

    "Don''t just look at me, eat!" said Cloe.

    "I''m eating," said Cui Xukun.

    "No, you''re just looking at me," retorted Cloe. "And don''t say you feel full just seeing me eat."

    Although he was going to say that, he stopped himself from doing so. He should just focus on eating. And that''s what he did. After they were done and paid the bill, they drove to the ce they were supposed to collect the parcel. Once Cui Xukun looked at that big box, his brows furrowed, "Exactly, what did she order?"

    "It''s a secret," Cloe acted mysteriously.

    "It''s a surprise for Shui Xian. Why am I in the dark?" He wondered out loud.

    "You have way too many questions, Kun," said Cloe, and Cui Xukun shut his mouth. Right, he shouldn''t ask too many questions. Whatever was inside that box, had nothing to do with him.

    "Where are we gonna drop it?" asked Cui Xukun. "Are we taking it to Shui Xian''s home?"

    "I''m not sure," answered Cloe. "I''ll have to ask Chief about that." She rummaged out her phone and called Raelle. Once she talked to Raelle, she was quiet for a minute before she told Cui Xukun. "Miss Tang is awake. Would you like to go to the hospital?"

    Cui Xukun stopped whatever he was thinking and looked at her. He nodded his head, "I''d like to see how she is doing."

    Cloe nodded her head, "Then let''s go to the hospital."

 Chapter 694 Ah-Xian

    <h4>Chapter 694 Ah-Xian</h4>

    Shui Xian took Raelle to the ward where Tang Hebe was. Zhai Yanjun wanted to follow them but Shui Xian told him to go back first. He knew Zhai Yanjun was busy and yet came here to look for him. He couldn''t leave his battalion just like this, it was better to send Zhai Yanjun back.

    When Raelle and Shui Xian entered the ward, a doctor was standing beside Tang Hebe as he checked up on her, asking her questions. Tang Hebe seemed to be cooperating with the doctor obediently. She looked paler than before and quite weak and delicate. Unlike Raelle who still maintained her expressionless face after such an ident, Tang Hebe seemed to be very sad and downcast.

    Not only that, she was in pain as well. Even with the painkillers, she was still able to feel a dull pain in her body and it didn''t feel good at all.

    Noticing that someone entered the ward, she looked up and her eyes sparkled once her eyes fell on Shui Xian and she sweetly called out, "Ah-Xian!"

    Shui Xian''s body froze when he heard that all too familiar voice, tone, and way of address. It was as if someone just stirred up the deeply buried memories in his mind. However, the voice that once made his heart tremble now had no effect on him of that sort.

    Meanwhile, Raelle keenly could tell that something was wrong right now. No matter what was up with her EQ, she could still read the atmosphere better than most people. And she could tell that the way Tang Hebe just called Shui Xian or looked at him was very wrong.

    What''s up with that passionate gaze this woman had set on her husband?

    Was that even allowed?

    Who allowed it?

    The legal wife was standing right here! Who gave this woman the guts to eye her husband?!

    "Ah-Xian, what took you so long? See, I got hurt? It''s painful," said Tang Hebe coquettishly. Her eyes had a watery sheen as she went on with a pout, "You know you have to be there whenever I''m in pain. How can you leave me alone?"

    Now, even Shui Xian''s brain buzzed as his brain even stopped working for a moment. He was seeing her for the first time since they got divorced and from what he knew about Tang Hebe, she''d never spoken to him like this at their first meeting after the divorce. It looked more like they never... divorced.

    His heart shuddered at that thought and he held Raelle''s hand even more tightly.

    The doctor observed her reaction as well and asked, "Miss Tang, do you recognize the gentleman there?"

    Tang Hebe looked at the doctor as if she was looking at an idiot, "How can I not recognize my own husband?"

    That''s it!

    Those words really made an explosion in Shui Xian''s mind.

    On the other hand, Raelle instantly pulled Shui Xian behind her body and stood in front of him like a protective lion. She was guarding her territory. Who could dare eye her possessions? It was Raelle Xiang! She never liked sharing her things!

    She could share Yanyan, Opa, and even Hyson with others. Because she understood that they weren''t her possessions but Shui Xian was different! He was her husband! HUSBAND!

    That meant, only Raelle as his wife had theplete right over him!

    She was so easily convinced of marriage because she wanted someone in her life who would only belong to her. Someone whom no one else could im as theirs! And a husband fits that criteria.

    What made people think she wasn''t possessive? She was the most possessive person on earth!

    While the doctor asked Tang Hebe questions like what year it was and what was her name and etc etc, Shui Xian was standing behind looking at the back of Raelle''s head. Was it alright for him to feel so giddy right now? He had never seen Raelle lose herposure. But she always reacted intensely whenever someone even eyed him.

    Now that someone even dared to im him as her husband right in front of Raelle, she actually lost herposure?

    He saw vignce in her eyes. That was such a vivid emotion that he was enthralled by it. This woman''s eyes didn''t even change when she went through such a big incident but now, she lost her calmness?

    No matter what, he was very happy about that.

    But he certainly wasn''t happy about what the doctor told him next, "Mr. Shui, how about we talk outside?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head and was about to leave with Raelle following behind him when Tang Hebe called out, "Ah-Xian,e back soon. I don''t like to be alone here."

    Shui Xian didn''t even stop and just followed the doctor out.

    "She has amnesia?" asked Raelle even before the doctor could speak up.

    The doctor looked at Raelle and didn''t dare to stare into her eyes. She didn''t look happy. Well, she didn''t look angry as well. But as a doctor, he was certainly able to perceive that he had to speak wisely if he wanted to live.

    "We''ll have to perform a few more tests to confirm her condition but at the moment it is clear that she seemed to have forgotten some things," said the doctor seriously. "Precisely, it seems her memory has gone back to a certain time period."

    "Is it permanent?" asked Shui Xian.

    "That''s difficult to say," said the doctor. "In fact, it can be just because of the shock that she isn''t able to remember certain things temporarily. You don''t have to worry, there is a high possibility that she''ll be able to remember things in 24 hours."

    "And if she doesn''t remember it?" asked Raelle.

    "This..." Even the doctor found it difficult to answer that question. "Let''s not jump to conclusions for now. We should be positive and wait patiently for what''s toe. Her head injury was quite serious and losing memory isn''t that rare in such cases. We should give the patient some time."

 Chapter 695 My Love Rival

    <h4>Chapter 695 My Love Rival</h4>

    "Let me say this to you, Mr. Shui," started the doctor. "The brain injuries are alwaysplicated. You have to be very patient with Miss Tang during this time. Forcing her to remember anything at this time can backfire on us."

    "So, you want me to offer my husband to her?" asked Raelle.

    The doctor went quiet while Shui Xian told him, "Tang Hebe and I divorced years ago. You want me to not tell her the truth?"

    The doctor was silent for a while before saying, "Well, I won''t advise you to do so. It''s a sensitive recovery period for the patient. Any kind of mistake can be detrimental. So how about you don''t tell the patient anything about the divorce? She thinks you''re still her husband, so you should just be patient with her."

    Shui Xian was in a veryplicated mood right now. He did not think he''d be stuck in such a situation. He didn''t think the legendary amnesia that he only saw in prime-time serials would actually turn the reality of his life. It seems art really takes inspiration from real life.

    "Doctor, why did her memory go back to the period of time when she was married to Xian?" asked Raelle seriously.

    "Post-traumatic amnesia is difficult to understand," said the doctor. "Especially when I haven''t done all the tests yet. But if we think from a psychological point of view, it seems the patient was very scared when the ident happened. No, it seems the ident left a shadow on her mind and made her want to hide. It''s very possible that the patient was looking for a protective ce to hide and found it in the time period she was married to Mr. Shui."

    "No matter what, I can''t pretend to be her husband," said Shui Xian.

    "Husband..." Raelle held his hand as she called out.

    Shui Xian looked at her and gaped, "You can''t possibly be expecting me to really pretend right now, right?"

    The doctor took his leave when he noticed how they needed some personal space. Raelle looked into Shui Xian''s eyes and said, "Who said that I want you to be her husband again? Do I look like I''m that kind? You of all people should already know I won''t share you with anyone."

    "Then why??" he asked.

    "She saved my life," Raelle pointed out.

    "I know," Shui Xian sounded exasperated. "I know she saved your life and I''m very thankful for that. I owe her a favor I might never be able to repay but that does not mean, I''m gonna y this act right now. I can''t look at her my wife. Not again."

    For the first time, Raelle was interested in knowing what had Tang Hebe done to make Shui Xian seem so resistant to the idea of even pretending to be her husband? She knew her husband was very easygoing. You''d have to have done something really despicable to make him so resistant.

    However, this wasn''t the time for that at all. She could learn about thatter on.

    "Hubby, I don''t like owing people," said Raelle. "I''m not telling you to pretend to be her husband. I''m just asking you to go along with it for now."

    "Baby, I can''t!" said Shui Xian.

    "Do you hate her?" asked Raelle. Shui Xian shook his head. "Then do you still love her?"

    "No way!" Shui Xian squeezed her hands as he went on, "I have no feelings for her. Just because I don''t hate her doesn''t mean I love her. You think I didn''t want to hate her? But I couldn''t do it. No matter how much she hurt me, I have had very good memories with her. She had been there for me for a long time. I can''t just forget all those years and instantly start hating her, just because I stopped loving her."

    "You said she is still a very good friend," reminded Raelle. Shui Xian looked into her eyes and nodded her head. "Then how can you back out when your friend needs you? This is a serious matter, Xian. Especially since she has no one else. You said that the Tang family doesn''t care about her. Then whom does she have?"

    Shui Xian was at a loss. Today was one of those days when he found Raelle''s rationality to be quite hateful. Why couldn''t she for once think about it emotionally and understand him? Why did she have to be so level-headed?

    But could he do anything even if he was unwilling? He couldn''t refuse her! He couldn''t bring himself to do so.

    "Fine!" he grumbled unwillingly. "But you have to stand beside me. I''m not going in there alone."

    "Who said I''m letting you stay in there with her alone?" asked Raelle. She fixed her hair and said, "What if she tried to seduce my husband? I have to be there to guard my own treasure!"

    Shui Xian suddenlyughed out loud, "Oh, when did I turn into a treasure?"

    "Since you married a treasure like me," replied Raelle.

    Shui Xianughed even louder. He kissed the top of her head and hugged her tightly.

    "What''s wrong?" she asked.

    "Nothing," said Shui Xian. "I need to recharge my energy before going back inside. So, just let me hug you for a little longer."

    Raelle lifted her arms and hugged him back, "Okay."

    As they pulled away, Raelle asked, "How do I look?"

    "Gorgeous!" said Shui Xian without even hesitating for a second.

    Raelle looked down at the hospital gown she wore and asked, "Are you sure? This hospital gown is really dull."

    "But it can''t bring down your sparkle," he said certainly. "But why are you asking?"

    "Of course, I can''t appear shabby in front of my love rival!" she said.

    Shui Xian rubbed her head, "What love rival? Don''t make up some imaginary love rivals. You''re the only one I have now. And you''re the only one whom I want to be with."

 Chapter 696 Anniversary

    <h4>Chapter 696 Anniversary</h4>

    Shui Xian entered the ward once again. And as Raelle had said, she followed behind him silently. In fact, right now it was even difficult to tell if she was there or not. She had made her presence seem so small. Usually, when she entered a room, she alwaysmanded attention to the point that no one would dare look at anyone else but her.

    But right now, you couldn''t really tell if she was there or not.

    Especially since her body waspletely hidden behind Shui Xian. And the other reason why Tang Hebe didn''t notice her was that her eyes were locked on Shui Xian.

    "Ah-Xian!" Of course, Tang Hebe could see no one else but him. Hadn''t it always been like that when they were young?

    It even made Shui Xian feel like he went back to the past. Back then, all he saw in her eyes was his own reflection. He could easily see how passionately she loved him. But so what? Was that love even enough to support their marriage? It certainly didn''t prove to be.

    It was just as Raelle had once told him, love wasn''t enough for a rtionship to work. It was just a small part of it. A rtionship had a lot more to offer. It''s just that when you''re young, you always feel like love will be enough for you.

    Especially when it''s your first love. It wasn''t surprising that when it came to first love, people always had some unrealistic expectations. Sadly, they wouldn''t alwayse true.

    "What did the doctor say?" asked Tang Hebe.

    Shui Xian didn''t speak immediately. Raelle ced a hand on his back and he finally opened his mouth, "The doctor said you need plenty of rest."

    "Ah-Xian, what happened to me?" asked Tang Hebe. "I clearly remember that I met the event nner and then... What happened after that? We talked about organizing the surprise for our fourth marriage anniversary, then I told her I''m leaving. I got to my car..." She held her head and winced, "It hurts."

    Shui Xian''s expression was ugly when he heard her words. ''Fourth anniversary?'' Wasn''t that the day she asked for the divorce? Surprise? It was really the surprise of his life! It was so surprising that he couldn''te too terms with it for a long time. It was a surprise that turned his whole world upside down.

    Raelle felt Shui Xian''s body trembling under her hand and slowly but gently stroked his back as ifforting him and reminding him that she was here. And this small gesture was actually more than enough for Shui Xian right now. Knowing she was standing with him was more than he could ask for.

    Shui Xian unclenched his fists and sighed mentally. Right? What was he getting so worked up for? That happened so long ago. And now he had Raelle with him. Instead of thinking about such unhappy things, he should think about what else was left to organize for his wedding with Raelle? He had been nning everything silently without her knowledge. Of course, he had help from other people.

    And it wasn''t even like Raelle knew anything about it. None of them deliberately hid anything from her. She just didn''t ask anything so they all collectively decided to pretend like it was still a surprise for her.

    "You shouldn''t try to think so much," said Shui Xian. "The doctor said you injured your head in the ident. It''s better to not force yourself to think. You''ll eventually recall everything."

    Tang Hebe nodded her head and smiled at him sweetly, "You''re right. I don''t have to think. Since you''re here, everything will be fine."

    ''As long as you''re with me, everything will be fine,'' her distant voice echoed in his mind and he forced himself to lock those memories once again. He didn''t want to recall anything. At least not the things that once made him love her without any care in the world for anything. What was the point of loving someone so much when the same person didn''t even hesitate to trample all over your love and pride?

    She suddenly looked sad as she said, "But my whole surprise is ruined now. Ah-Xian, can you pretend like you know nothing about the surprise I nned for our anniversary?"

    Pretend like he knew nothing? He once wished that he could even forget whatever actually happened. But he couldn''t do so. He forgot everything, wouldn''t he be also trampling and degrading the feelings that he once had for her?

    "I told you, you shouldn''t think about anything," said Shui Xian in a in voice. "Your health is more important right now. So, you should pay attention to your health and get well soon."

    "As always, you''re still concerned about my health,"mented Tang Hebe feeling sweet in her heart.

    Shui Xian didn''tment. Tang Hebe was actually puzzled since she had never faced such a distant Shui Xian before. In her mind, he was the closest person in her life. And he was the sunshine in her life. He always had a bright smile on his face whenever he looked at her. He had never been this silent as well. He was a chatterbox who loved to joke around with her.

    He loved to talk so much that even she''d get annoyed and tired but he''d still be buzzing like a bee in her ear.

    However, now that same person was too quiet and there wasn''t a hint of a smile on his face either. She found it unbelievable and a little uneasy as well. She didn''t know why she suddenly felt a little scared. Her heart was aching as she looked at him and she felt like crying right now.

    But why was she feeling this way?

    Why was her heart hurting so much when she looked at him? What happened?

    "Ah-Xian," she called out to him hesitantly. "What did the doctor really say? Is my life in danger? Is something really wrong with me? You don''t have to hide anything from me."

 Chapter 697 So Intimate

    <h4>Chapter 697 So Intimate</h4>

    Tang Hebe wasn''t feeling good right now. She was dreading to hear his reply. How should she say it? It was an intuition that something was very wrong. But she couldn''t understand what it was. As she tried to think, her head would start hurting. So, she had to ask him instead.

    She wanted to know if her situation was really that bad?

    Was that why he looked so out of sorts? Was that why he was so quiet and so unlike him? Why did she feel he was cold towards her? Was that really her illusion? Or was it real?

    "I already told you, there is nothing wrong," said Shui Xian trying to be patient with her. But the truth was, he was a very impatient person at times. At least, he didn''t have as much patience as Raelle did. The only reason why he was still here was Raelle! He was willing to be patient and do anything she wanted.

    And he knew Raelle was right. He couldn''t just forget that Tang Hebe saved Raelle''s life. Yes, they lost their baby in the process but he dreaded the worst-case scenario. So, he was willing to offer whatever patience he had right now to Tang Hebe for the sake of his wife.

    "The doctor only said that your injury is serious but it isn''t life-threatening. All you have to do is recuperate well and everything will be fine."

    "Then why are you...?" she didn''t get to finish her sentence when the door was knocked and Cloe and Cui Xukun walked inside.

    "Ah-Xu?" Tang Hebe called out excitedly once she looked at Cui Xukun.

    Cloe turned her eyes to Cui Xukun who shuddered under his gaze. He instantly knew something was wrong with this situation. What the hell?! He was seeing Tang Hebe after a decade or so and she actually called him so intimately? Couldn''t she see that he had his girlfriend right beside him?

    He looked at Cloe and blinked at her innocently, trying to tell her that she needed to calm down. He was very innocent, so she shouldn''t jump to conclusions.

    However, Cloe''s thoughts weren''t aligned with his. She could observe the situation better than Cui Xukun after spending years with Raelle. Just one look at her Chief and she knew that the situation was serious. But she couldn''t tell what was wrong. She soon got the answer for that though.

    "Ah-Xu! When did youe back? You know how mad I was that you left without saying even goodbye to us? How could you be so irresponsible? Is that how friends should behave? Even if you wanted to leave, couldn''t talk to us? Even when we invited you to our wedding you didn''t show up. I was so mad at you. If it wasn''t for that Ah-Xian kept trying to defend you, I''d have gone to find you and give you a good beating."

    Cui Xukun was startled when he heard that. He even looked at Shui Xian and wondered to himself, ''Xian defended him in front of Bebe?'' He couldn''t believe it. Because from the time he came back, they had been at odds. Or it was right to say that Shui Xian was hostile towards him for leaving back then.

    But now he was suddenly told that Shui Xian had actually defended him. He couldn''t make sense of this at all.

    What was worse was that he just heard Tang Hebe call Shui Xian ''Ah-Xian''. So intimate?! He looked over at Raelle and found no expression on her face. Was it okay for Tang Hebe to call Shui Xian so intimately in front of his current wife? At least, he didn''t think it was a good idea.

    "I..." Cui Xukun opened his mouth but didn''t know what to say. No, really, what was he exactly supposed to say right now in this situation? He wasn''t even able to make sense of this situation right now.

    "Chief!" Cloe called out to Raelle who looked at her and put a finger on her lips, telling her to stay quiet. Cloe nodded her head and didn''t try to speak again.

    "Why aren''t you saying anything, Ah-Xu?" asked Tang Hebe.

    "Oh, nothing," said Cui Xukun. "It''s just I am seeing you after a long time so I''m not able to understand what should I say." He smiled awkwardly while peaking at Shui Xian.

    "Xukun just recently came back," replied Shui Xian. "When he heard that you''re in an ident, he came to see you."

    Tang Hebe red at Cui Xukun and snorted, "At least, you have some conscience. You should be d that my husband always stands by your side."

    Raelle clutched the back of Shui Xian''s shirt when she heard the words, ''my husband''ing from Tang Hebe''s mouth. Okay, she had no problem with Tang Hebe. But now, she definitely was starting to find some problems.

    Shui Xian also felt her movements and his eyes softened but his heart hurt. He didn''t want her to feel the difort of any kind. But now, he was actually bing that difort. How could he allow that to happen?

    Seeing the nurseing in, Shui Xian said, "You should take your medicine and go to sleep, Tang Hebe. I''ll see Cui Xukun out."

    With that, he held Raelle''s wrist and pulled her out. He didn''t even wait for Tang Hebe to say a word before he was gone. Tang Hebe was left startled from the moment she heard Shui Xian calling her ''Tang Hebe.'' Well, that was her name. But when was thest time she even heard that name from Shui Xian''s mouth?

    He always called her Bebe so lovingly and gently.

    She couldn''t even remember the time when he had called her full name.

    But suddenly, a sharp pain struck her head and a cold voice rang in her mind, ''Let''s not meet again Tang Hebe.''

    She recognized that voice to be Shui Xian''s but when did he say that to her? Was her mind ying games with her right now? How could Shui Xian say that to her?

 Chapter 698 Define Jealousy

    <h4>Chapter 698 Define Jealousy</h4>

    "I''ll see youter, Bebe," said Cui Xukun. Cloe coughed from his side and he immediately changed his words, "Just take care of yourself, Hebe. Don''t think so much."

    "You''ll not leave again, right?" asked Tang Hebe.

    Cui Xukun smiled at her, "Don''t worry. I''m here. You just get well soon and then I''ll take you out for a meal as my apology."

    "One meal won''t cut it," she told him.

    He maintained his smile as he continued, "Well, then I''ll feed you until you forgive me."

    Tang Hebe seemed to be cated by those words and Cui Xukun left with Cloe who eyed him. He looked at her sheepishly, "You don''t have to think so much."

    "Who said I am?" retorted Cloe in amusement as she walked away.

    Meanwhile, when Shui Xian pulled Raelle out, he brought her straight to her ward and held her in his embrace. With his chin ced on her head, he said, "I''m sorry."

    "What are you apologizing for?" she asked.

    "It''s all because of me that you have to go through this strange situation," said Shui Xian.

    Raelle pinched his waist making him gape at her in surprise, "I just realized, Mr. Husband, you seem to love ming yourself. But I don''t like seeing you taking all the me. This situation might not be the best, but isn''t it enough that we are together? Would you have given up if I was the one who had been hit by that flower pot and had amnesia?"

    "How is that possible? I''d pester you even more," he said. "I realized, as long as I pester you enough, I can worm my way in your life."

    "That''s your wishful thinking," said Raelle. "It''s pestering that got you into my life. It''s because I gave you the permission to enter my life."

    "Yes, yes, I understand," Shui Xian immediately chose to agree with anything and everything she had to say. Well, he had nothing to say anyway. She was always right. He held her face into his hands and said, "But you have to keep in mind, I, Shui Xian only have one wife. And that wife is you. Raelle Xiang. My Mrs. Shui. Master Xian''s Madam Raelle. The matriarch of our Shui family. Xian''s love."

    "Doesn''t that word matriarch makes me sound very old?" asked Raelle after he said such romantic words making him speechless. Argh! He should really get used to it!

    Helplessly squishing her cheeks he said, "How is that possible? It represents your status in my life!"

    "I don''t want any status," said Raelle. "I''m fine with just being your wife."

    Shui Xian instantly felt so sweet in his heart that he forgot all the bitterness he just felt facing Tang Hebe. He couldn''t stand that bitterness and ran away. But this sweetness was more than weed. No, he was willing to drown in this sweetness and forget everything else.

    Shui Xian kissed her eyebrows, then he kissed her eyes, moved down to kiss her cheeks, and kissed the corner of her lips before nting a firm kiss on her lips. She tasted like medicine but he didn''t give a damn about it. He just wanted to kiss her right now and tell her through his actions that she was his wife.

    No one could possibly change that. Even he felt unbearable when Tang Hebe called him her husband. How could he let his Raelle get wronged? Yes, he couldn''t deny the fact that he was once her husband but that chapter of life was already closed now. He didn''t wish to open it again and re-read the same tragic story.

    "Wifey," his voice was low as he pulled away from the kiss. "I can''t keep up with this. Shall we not y along anymore? It makes me ufortable when she looks at me and calls me Ah-Xian."

    "Isn''t that how she acted back then?" asked Raelle.

    "That''s the reason why it''s so unbearable," he told her. "I can''t look at her and pretend as if nothing happened between us when I clearly remember everything."

    "Let''s wait and see how her condition is," said Raelle. "Then we''ll see what to do."

    "And if her condition doesn''t improve?" asked Shui Xian. "Do you want me to keep pretending?"

    "Who said that?" was Raelle''s response. "There is only so much I''ll do to repay her debt of saving my life. But that doesn''t involve offering my husband. Till now the situation isn''t that serious, so I''m okay with going along with her. But if she tried to push her luck then I''m not a decoration either."

    Shui Xian chuckled at her words and pinched her nose.

    "What are youughing at?"

    "I''m just happy," he told her honestly.

    "To see how much your ex-wife loves you even now?"

    Shui Xian red at her and bit her cheek, "Don''t talk nonsense! I''m happy because, in this situation, my wife has learned to use threats."

    "I always knew how to threat," said Raelle.

    "Yes, you did," answered Shui Xian while smiling at her. "Baby, are you jealous?"

    "Define jealousy," asked Raelle. "If wanting to tear apart Tang Hebe when she called you her husband is jealousy then yes, I''m very jealous."

    Shui Xian''s heartbeat sped up when he heard how she honestly epted that she was jealous. It meant she loved him. She loved him so much that perhaps she didn''t even know it herself. Oh, he was so loved that he was grinning like a fool once again.

    The smile that he couldn''t even fake in front of Tang Hebe earlier was now stered permanently on his face. He couldn''t get rid of this smile as long as he looked at Raelle. Sigh! His wife was so adorable. What to do? He just loved her so damn much!

    "It''s okay to be jealous," he said. "I also get jealous when you don''t pay attention to me."

    "There are times when I don''t pay attention to you?" asked Raelle. "Is something wrong with my brain? How can I ignore such a handsome husband?"

    Shui Xian nodded at her shamelessly, "Right? How can you ignore such a handsome husband?"

    "It seems I have to reflect on myself," said Raelle.

    He hugged her waist as he said, "It''s okay. You can learn from this and don''t do it again. Then I''ll be fine."

 Chapter 699 Burrito

    <h4>Chapter 699 Burrito</h4>

    Shui Xian and Raelle were still lost in their two people''s world when the door was pushed open and Cui Xukun and Cloe stepped inside. Cloe looked at the scene before her and tactfully turned around while Cui Xukun continued to stare at Shui Xian and Raelle. Cloe had to knock on his head and turn him around.

    He rubbed his head where his girlfriend hit him and looked aggrieved as he asked, "Do these two always do this?"

    "You have seen nothing yet," whispered Cloe.

    Of course, a hug was really nothing. If only her Chief was a shy person but she wasn''t! So, Cloe had chanced upon a lot of stuff she''d rather not see.

    When Shui Xian noticed their presence, he was extremely ruffled. Can''t these people just let him spend time with his wife? ALONE!

    "What are you doing here?" asked Shui Xian.

    Cui Xukun turned around and replied, "I came to check up on Hebe."

    "Then go to her," said Shui Xian. "Why follow me here?"

    "You forget about that. Tell me what''s up with Hebe? Why does she seem... different?"

    "How is she different? Isn''t she the same Tang Hebe you''re familiar with?" asked Shui Xian.

    "She is," Cui Xukun agreed. "And that''s exactly what''s bothering me. How can a person be the same after..." he looked at Shui Xian and went on, "After everything that happened."

    "You should just tell him," said Raelle. "He''ll have to y his role anyway. After all, he is someone she is familiar with."

    Shui Xian sighed, "She lost her memory."

    Cui Xukun''s eyes widened in shock while Cloe only raised her brow slightly. She seemed to have already expected something like that.

    "Her memory is stuck at the point before our fourth wedding anniversary," added Shui Xian. "Right before we started arguing about the divorce."

    Cui Xukun was stumped. "She thinks you both are still married?" Shui Xian hummed in response. Cui Xukun looked at Raelle and asked, "Are you okay, sister-inw?"

    Shui Xian didn''t expect his first question to be this and it''d be directed at Raelle. But he was certainly very satisfied with this.

    Surprisingly, even Cui Xukun noticed that Shui Xian''s mood improved once he asked that question to Raelle. What the hell! He had been trying to make it up to Shui Xian for so long and it didn''t work and he just realized, that all he had to do was suck up to his sister-inw?

    "I''m not okay," was Raelle''s response. "Do you think I''ll be okay with someone iming my husband as hers right in front of me?"

    "That was a very dumb question," said Cui Xukun. "I''m sorry about that." He took a pause and added, "But you''re not in the best of your health after that incident as well. So, I suggest you do not think about it as well. Why don''t you take a rest as well?"

    Shui Xian looked at Raelle and nodded, "He is right. I only took you out because you insisted. Now that you''ve seen Tang Hebe, go to bed and rest. Don''t make me repeat myself."

    "And if I don''t listen?" asked Raelle stubbornly.

    "Then I''ll pick you up and throw you on this bed," said Shui Xian. It sounded like a threat but his eyes said otherwise.

    Raelle boldly tested him, "And then?"

    Shui Xian''s lips curled up slightly when he noticed what she was up to as he said, "Then I''ll roll you up in that nket."

    "Then I''ll look like a burrito," she said.

    Shui Xian tucked her hair behind her hair as he said in a low voice, "It''s okay, I love eating burritos."

    "What is wrong with these two?" asked Cui Xukun.

    "What''s wrong?" asked Cloe in return. "Aren''t they acting normal?"

    "Is this normal?" asked Cui Xukun in surprise. "They are flirting so openly. That''s normal? Don''t they care about our feelings?"

    "How is your or my feelings any of their concern?" was Cloe''s response. "They live in their own world. I''d be worried if these two didn''t flirt like this. Now, I can rx. Everything is fine."

    Cui Xukun didn''t know what to say.

    In the end, Shui Xian still put Raelle on the bed and said, "Wait here, I''ll bring something for you to eat. You must be hungry by now."

    Raelle held his hand, "Come soon."

    Shui Xian patted her head, "Be good. I''ll be right back."

    "Shui Xian," started Cloe. "You can stay here with Chief. I''ll bring something for you both to eat."

    "It''s okay. You should enjoy your weekend," said Shui Xian.

    "I insist," said Cloe before she left to get the lunch for them. It''s not like she had to buy it. She knew that someone from Xiang Manor will bring the lunch. She just had to call and inquire about it.

    "How are you gonna deal with Hebe?" asked Cui Xukun.

    "I don''t know," answered Shui Xian honestly. He didn''t think about it and he''d rather not. He already had a lot on his mind. He just lost his child, did he really look like he had the feelings to spare for this matter? Because he didn''t!

    "Isn''t it more important to think about what are we gonna do about Tang Hebe''s son?" asked Raelle casually. "Her son had been missing her sincest night. It''s not like we can keep him in secret for good."

    These words struck both Shui Xian and Cui Xukun. They hadn''t even thought about it. They both knew Tang Hebe came back with a son but they both seemed to have forgotten about it until Raelle reminded them. Now that they thought about it, this matter was getting more serious andplicated.

    It''d be different if only Tang Hebe was involved but now they couldn''t think in the same way. A child was involved. They really were in a difficult position right now because none of them knew what to do. All they could do was hope that Tang Hebe''s amnesia was temporary and she''ll get better soon or else, it only spelled trouble for all of them.

 Chapter 700 Wayward Lady

    <h4>Chapter 700 Wayward Lady</h4>

    Originally, Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin were gonna follow their father and grandfather back home but then they both decided to give some personal time to this father and son who were actually willing to sit down and talk to each other after so long.

    In the end, Xiang Wai had to use her charm as a granddaughter to find Mu Chenyan''s whereabouts from her grandfather.

    And that''s how these siblings arrived at the secret base where Mu Chenyan was keeping Ruan Meilin. Looking at the building before her, Xiang Waimented, "This is grand."

    "Let''s go inside," said Xiang Weimin and took her inside.

    The people standing guard at this ce might not have known these two siblings before but since they entered the door of Xiang Manor, every single employee of the Xiang family knew about their identities. It was to make sure that no ignorant fool could slight them.

    And because of this, they faced no obstruction and easily reached the basement where Ruan Meilin was kept. As they walked inside and looked at the scene in front of them, both of them didn''t even flinch. Seeing tortures and such was normal for both of them.

    However, they both were actually quite surprised by now they didn''t get to see any blood. But from the way Ruan Meilin looked, it seemed this battle might be bloodless but it definitely was excruciatingly painful.

    "Aunt?"

    Mu Chenyan looked back and the chill on her face thawed when she looked at her niece and nephew. She even smiled at them sweetly.

    "What are you both doing here? You shouldn''t be here," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Do you think this scene is unsuitable for us as well?" asked Xiang Wai in amusement.

    Mu Chenyan shook her head, "No. I already know you both are used to it. It''s just that you both are dignified soldiers, you shouldn''t be in thiswless ce with gangsters like us."

    "If only you''re a normal gangster,"mented Xiang Weimin as he looked at Ruan Meilin with a cold and piercing gaze. If Mu Chenyan hadn''t taken this matter into hand, he would have burned this woman alive for doing such a horrible thing to his sister.

    But even if he was the elder brother, it wasn''t his turn to do anything for Raelle. She had plenty of people who were ready to stand up for her.

    Ruan Meilin''s head was tilted down as she was chained to the wall now. Her clothes were still dripping water.

    Someone brought a sringye filled with a bluish liquid to Mu Chenyan and asked, "Mistress, should we begin?"

    Mu Chenyan hesitated as she looked at her niece and nephew. It wasn''t that she was worried about them. But she really thought it wasn''t right for them to be here. If anyone heard about this, their remarkable career would have a stain on it. And she didn''t want to see that. But then again, she could make sure no one would ever find out.

    Forget it! She should stop thinking since they were already here.

    "Aunt, what''s that?" asked Xiang Wai curiously.

    "Is that the ''exterminator''?" asked Xiang Weimin at the same time and it suddenly struck Xiang Wai as well. She looked intently at that bluish liquid in that syringe.

    She was familiar with it as well. After all, she worked in the special forces. And they had to use this ''exterminator'' on the spies who were too stubborn to open their mouths. It was dubbed as the truth serum. It gave the subject an excrutiating pain that the subject would rather die than face that pain.

    "No," answered Mu Chenyan. "This is the devil''s potion."

    Xiang Weimin''s eyes widened, "How did you get it? Even the military never got their hands on it. That syndicate might work for the government, but mostly the government doesn''t have any control over their operations. Even military isn''t on good terms with their senior executives."

    "Of course, I know all that," replied Mu Chenyan. "But you see, I have a Jie who is a director in that syndicate. She doted on me a lot. So, getting this potion wasn''t really a big deal. I just had to give her a call. Oh and I have to take her out for a meal and drinks."

    Xiang Wai''s lips twitched when she heard that, "People from that organization are that easy to get along with?"

    "Yeah," said Mu Chenyan nonchntly.

    "Anut, who is it that you know in that organization?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "Director Su," replied Mu Chenyan without any hesitation. She had no reason to hide it from her own family.

    "You mean, Director Su Feifei?" Xiang Wai asked in disbelief. Seeing how her aunt nodded, she went on, "I heard she is a waywarddy."

    "You shouldn''t speak like that about your elders," said Mu Chenyan. "But you''re right. Jie is surely a waywarddy. But I like her."

    Xiang Wai still couldn''t believe that Mu Chenyan could reach such an organization and a person of that position as well. She had heard way too many things about Mu Chenyan but hearing was one thing, seeing was believing.

    "Aunt, just what kind of connections do you have?" asked Xiang Wai in a puzzled manner.

    "I told you, I used to hang out with people who at this time canmand the wind and waters," said Mu Chenyan. "Inject it," she ordered her people. "Do you both know why military had been so intrusted in this devil''s potion? It''s because it''s far worse than the so-called truth serum in their hands. This liquid feels like acid flowing through your veins. It does no damage to one''s body but it makes you want to die. Tsk. If only my Elle didn''t want us to leave any physical wounds. I had even better ways. But I had to look for these tricks to torture just to satisfy my family''s precious."

    Ruan Meilin, who looked lifeless instantly started squirming when that liquid was injected into her body. Even Xiang Wai tutted to herself when she saw her condition. This is why one should look at the owner before hitting the dog. Some people really look for their own deaths.

 Chapter 701 Hated Someone

    <h4>Chapter 701 Hated Someone</h4>

    "Aunt, do you meet Director Su often?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Nope," said Mu Chenyanzily. "I haven''t seen her in person in a long while."

    "You have been away from the country for so long, how did you manage to maintain all these connections?"

    Mu Chenyan sighed, "Once upon a time, we were all friends. Comrades. Brothers and sisters! In friendship, time doesn''t matter. No matter how much time passes, some rtionships survive the test of time."

    "Can you take me to the meal with Director Su?"

    Mu Chenyan looked at her niece and raised her brow, "Why are you interested in her?"

    "I just heard a lot of things about her," said Xiang Wai. "Besides, I have worked with their teams. They really have the best intelligence officers. I once worked with Director Su''s niece and heard a lot about her. So, I was just curious about her."

    "Sure," agreed Mu Chenyan. "I''ll take you with me. Anyway, Jie is a very nice person. She won''t mind."

    Xiang Wai''s lips twitched. Were they talking about the same person? But then again, looking at her aunt, she couldn''t say anything. Everyone seemed nice to her. Perhaps, she was too nice so everyone was nice to her.

    "By the way, you really worked with Jie''s niece before? Her name is... Yan Ying, right?"

    Xiang Wai nodded her head, "Yes, that''s her. I was new to the team back then. She was the Captain of her team. But I didn''t meet her again."

    Mu Chenyan had a thoughtful look, "I don''t think she takes the fieldwork since she had a kid."

    Xiang Wai snickered, "Even her niece has a kid but I heard Director Su is still single."

    "You don''t have tough about that, your own aunt is the same." Xiang Wai stopped immediately. She also realized that point. Looking at her sheepishly look, Mu Chenyan didn''t continue, "Forget it." She took a pause and added, "You both leave now."

    It wasn''t just a suggestion this time. They could tell that she wanted them to leave immediately. So, they had to leave.

    "Aunt would have been an amazing soldier,"mented Xiang Wai with admiration.

    "No," said Xiang Weimin. "Dad is right. Aunt would never make a good soldier. She loves freedom. Law and rules are her shackles, she''d rather not be bonded by them. She has all the qualities of a good soldier, except for one. She isn''t a selfless person. She holds grudges like no other. And she doesn''t like being wronged."

    "Isn''t it strange though?" questioned Xiang Wai. "She grew up in the barracks and still didn''t want to be a soldier. Even though she trained with the soldiers."

    "It isn''t strange at all," was all Xiang Weimin said. He seemed to have understood his aunt better after meeting her. She might seem like she was looking for trouble but it wasn''t true. It was better to say that she was toozy.

    So rather than talking things out, she''d rather use her fists to solve the problem. And that''s how troubles brewed around her all the time.

    He couldn''t even imagine how his father managed to grow up with such a sister. She must have been a handful.

    "Ge, don''t you think Yanjun has changed?" asked Xiang Wai suddenly.

    Xiang Weimin looked at his sister and paused for a moment, "Didn''t you break up? Why are you paying attention to him?"

    "I... I just noticed it," said Xiang Wai. "Anyone would be able to notice. It wasn''t like I was paying specific attention to him."

    Xiang Weimin shook his head. Her guilty conscience was obvious but she refused to say it. Why was this sister too stubborn? Forget it, the truth is exactly like their grandfather said. They were all stubborn!

    "You''re right," said Xiang Weimin. "Yanjun is changing. Slowly but certainly he is willing to open up now. He seems happier than before."

    Xiang Wai lowered her eyes as she said, "But isn''t it unfair? I tried so hard to make him open up to me. I loved him for ten years but I couldn''t change him at all."

    "Wai, you know that Yannjun has PTSD right?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "I know," said Xiang Wai. "And I also know his mother had been his trigger. But he recovered from that. I did everything I could to help him recover. Only then was he able to join the army."

    "If his mother was the trigger, then someone had to be his salvation," spoke Xiang Weimin. "You have met Aunt Yue already, what do you think about her?"

    Xiang Wai was quiet, she didn''t know what to say.

    "You only notice one thing but oftentimes overlook the most important things," said Xiang Weimin. "I don''t know what his mother did to scar him for life. But I do know that the savior he needed was his Aunt Yue. She definitely ys a big part in his childhood. A part we both are unfamiliar with. I have seen how turns into a kid whenever he is around her. He doesn''t even act like that with his own family." He took a pause and looked straight at his sister, "Listen to me carefully, we can''t always be a missing piece of the puzzle in someone''s life. Yes, you loved him a lot but what he needed was someone who would make him feel safe and protected. Because he had always been an insecure person."

    "Ge, why is love so difficult?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "If it was easy, it wouldn''t so meaningful," replied Xiang Weimin.

    "Ge, have you ever been in love?" asked Xiang Wai. She didn''t know why she questioned that out of nowhere. But she was suddenly curious. She had never heard her brother talking about a woman. Or even a man he was interested in. In fact, he was like an ascetic monk in her opinion who found his job more thrilling than any rtionship.

    "Love?" repeated Xiang Weimin. "I''m not sure about that. But I have hated someone with every fiber of my being."

 Chapter 702 Wronged You

    <h4>Chapter 702 Wronged You</h4>

    "Little prince, go back to your room and sleep," said Grandfather Xiang said to Hyson as they came back home.

    "Opa, I''m fine," said Hyson but he looked like a zombie right now. Even though he had sleptst night, he was really tired now. It wasn''t easy being an actor. Especially when you''re not born with the talent of being an actor and have to put extra work into it.

    "Then lie down on the sofa," suggested Grandfather Xiang. "Rest for a while. I''ll ask the kitchen staff to prepare lunch for you."

    Hyson perked up a little but couldn''t muster up a lot of energy as he said, "Okay! I''ll be waiting to eat delicious food."

    As Xiang Hulin looked at their interaction, he had one thought in his mind, ''One is willing to be spoiled, the other is willing to spoil.'' However, he didn''t dare speak up right now. He felt like if he said a word wrong, his father might throw him out of the house again.

    Seeing him just standing there looking at everything so curiously, Hyson couldn''t help smiling to himself. Why was this General a little silly?

    He shouldn''t say that about his best friend''s father though. Because it was this silly father''s genes that gave birth to a genius like Raelle. Actually, after meeting Xiang Hulin, he was a little bit curious to meet Raelle''s mother as well.

    He has his eyes closed as he said, "General, don''t just stand there. Take a sit. Opa didn''t punish you to stand, right?"

    "Mhmm..." Grandfather Xiang made a sound of agreement. "I didn''t."

    "Oh," Xiang Hulin instantly sat down and looked like a good and obedient child right now.

    Hyson suddenly stood up and said, "Opa, I''m gonna go and see my mum. You should talk to General. Don''t be so quiet."

    Grandfather Xiang nodded his head and Hyson left them alone.

    "Father..." Xiang Hulin called out tentatively. "I''m sorry. I couldn''t protect her again."

    Grandfather Xiang sighed at that, "My granddaughter doesn''t me anyone. Whom am I to me you?"

    "If you think I''m the back luck in her life, I promise I''ll never appear before her or around again," said Xiang Hulin.

    "As a military General, is it okay for you to be so superstitious?" asked Grandfather Xiang. "I didn''t raise you like that. Don''t speak such nonsense before my Yenay."

    "Yes," said Xiang Hulin obediently.

    "How have you been?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    Xiang Hulin smiled bitterly, "I am fine."

    "Did you go to your mother''s grave?"

    Xiang Hulin lowered his head, "I know you asked me not to go there but... I can''t stop myself. So, every time I passed by our hometown, I went to visit her and ask for her forgiveness." His voice lowered as he continued, "But I don''t think she forgave me even after all these years. She doesn''t evene into my dreams."

    "She never came in my dreams as well," told Grandfather Xiang. "She must be too happy in the other world to even remember who we are."

    Xiang Hulin didn''t know how he should react to those words. Was it alright for his father to speak like that about his own wife?

    "Do you know why I asked to meet you?"

    Xiang Hulin shook his head, "I don''t."

    "It''s because my Yenay said I''ve wronged you," said Grandfather Xiang leaving Xiang Hulin stunned. "She said to keep a promise with my dead wife, I am torturing my only son who is still alive and living in agony." He looked at Xiang Hulin''s expressions and asked, "Why? Surprised?"

    Xiang Hulin nodded in response, "I didn''t think she''d be the reason."

    "No, only she could be the reason," remarked Grandfather Xiang heavily. "Her words are bitter but she always speaks facts. Facts you can''t deny. She had a habit of leaving everyone speechless. But she never does it intentionally. She is just my little precious who is too good for this world. I wonder why Heaven is still hurting her so much."

    A tear leaked down the corner of his eye as he said those words. He couldn''t describe how he was feeling right now. Even if he looked at his granddaughter and she seemed fine, he just couldn''t stop what he was feeling. How could he? She looked the same when she was kidnapped and had wounds all over her body. She looked the same even when she fell down the horse and broke her leg. She always just looked the same. She had always been hurting but she looked the same! Always the same!

    And that was the most painful thing to him. It was too painful! Whenever he looked at her, he couldn''t help wishing...

    He wanted his precious granddaughter to be able to express herself freely. He wanted her tough and giggle like other girls. He wanted to see her cry if she was in pain andugh if she was happy.

    But those were all just his wishful thinking. He might never see all that. He didn''t even know if he had so much time to wait and see any change. Who knew when he''d be gone?

    Xiang Hulin kneeled down before his father and ced his hand on his knee as he said, "Father..." He didn''t know how tofort. He was at a loss for words as well. "Raelle wouldn''t like to see tears in your eyes." That was the only thought that came to his mind.

    Grandfather Xiang wiped his tear and nodded, "I know. That''s why I didn''t dare shed a tear in front of her. I know my granddaughter best. She never liked seeing tears in the eyes of the people she called family."

    Xiang Hulin suddenly thought that he was definitely not part of that family. He knew it clearly that her calling him father and him being her family were two very separate things. It couldn''t be helped. She was very particr about people she was willing to call family.

 Chapter 703 Beautiful Bride

    <h4>Chapter 703 Beautiful Bride</h4>

    "Mum," Hyson hugged his mother and acted spoiled. "You should really tell me. Am I really your son? Why do I feel like that Yanjun is your son instead of me?"

    Yue Yue didn''t even bother with his nonsense as she continued to thread the needle. But once she was done, she lifted her hand to ruffle his hair.

    This silly son of hers was really too dramatic.

    Everyone was willing to spoil him, but he still needed her spoiling? She didn''t think so. He just purposely wanted to go against Zhai Yanjun. She couldn''t even understand why.

    She was mute, not blind. She could see everything that went on with her son. And she also knew that Hyson had long figured out how he was really connected to Zhai Yanjun. But since he hadn''t pushed Zhai Yanjun out of his life, it showed that he actually was willing to have a brother.

    She didn''t know how to tell her son that there might nevere a day when he''d have to face Zhai Yanjun as his brother. Because neither she''d say nor Hyson would, how would anyone find out?

    "Ellie met your parentsst night," said Hyson after he was done acting spoiled with his mother.

    Yue Yue pricked her finger with the needle and blood came out. Hyson looked at her as she put her finger in her mouth.

    "Are you that surprised?" he asked. "I don''t think you should be. You know, you can''t hide forever. Secrets never stay forever."

    ''This secret has to stay.''

    Hyson looked at her hand signs and scoffed, "Why? Because you don''t want to be a third party? Or you don''t want your son to be called an illegitimate?"

    ''No one can dare call my son illegitimate. I won''t let that happen. Chenyan won''t let that happen as well. Even Elder Xiang and Raelle will never let anyone speak like that about you.''

    "When you know I have so many people to protect me, why do you want to keep this secret forever?" he asked curiously.

    Yue Yue looked hesitant before she told him, ''I don''t care about anyone else, son. But I don''t want him to despise me.''

    Of course, Hyson understood who she was talking about. And that''s why he couldn''t help asking, "Mum, is love really worth it? Why do people go crazy for it?"

    Yue Yue stroked his face, ''You won''t understand even if I tell you.''

    "I don''t really want to understand either," he said. "If love really makes you lose yourself, then I''d rather note across such a vicious thing called love."

    Yue Yue pinched his cheek as she mouthed, ''Love is a very beautiful thing. Not a vicious one.''

    Hyson shook his head, "No, you''re wrong. Love is a double-edged sword. To some people, it''s the elixir of life and to others, it''s the deadliest poison. You said it''s beautiful? But don''t forget that every beautiful thing is hiding ugliness behind it. Just like behind every light is darkness you can''t ignore!"

    Yue Yue shook her head but didn''t say anything to him about this. She had always known that her son''s idea of love was not right. He might sound normal but deep down, he actually never thought that love was something worthy of his attention.

    Even asexual people could fall in love and live like normal people. But the problem was, that her son wasn''t willing to pay attention to anyone. He wasn''t willing to fall into the trap of love and lose himself. He once said, he was crazy enough already if he really fell in love, he''d be a lost cause. So, it was better for him to keep his distance from the thing called love.

    Earlier when he said everyone around him affected him and that''s why he was single, she didn''t really think he was speaking nonsense. It was true. From a young age, he was surrounded by broken couples or people like Mu Chenyan and her who never even married. So, in reality, all of them became a factor in his life. A big factor why he was so against falling in love. Because he didn''t think anything good came out of this thing called love.

    "Mum, can you stop running from your past?"

    ''I''ve already stopped running. Now, I''m not scared to face anyone.''

    He eyed her suspiciously before sighing, "Well, you shouldn''t be. I''m here to protect you. You aren''t alone anyone. Also, you have a girlfriend like Yanyan. Say a word, she''ll do anything for beauty."

    Seeing himughing and joking about this, she called him silly in her mind. Yes, her son was a bit silly. Nothing could be done about it now. Perhaps, she didn''t manage to provide him with enough nutrition when he was in her womb. Or maybe she dropped him on his head when he was young. Something somewhere definitely went wrong for him to turn out to be so silly.

    Hyson looked at the beautiful embroidery she had done on that red gown and asked, "Mum, is this for Ellie?"

    Yue Yue nodded her head, ''This is my present for her wedding. She''ll be the most beautiful bride.''

    "Of course, she will be," he agreed immediately. "After all, my mum has been working for so long on her gown. But don''t tire your eyes and hands so much. She won''t like that."

    ''I know.''

    He noticed her expression and asked, "You came back and picked up work instantly. Are you trying to tire yourself to avoid the sadness? If you want to cry again, go ahead. Unlike Ellie, I won''t stop you."

    Yue Yue dropped her needle and buried her face in her son''s chest as she cried silently. She had been really using embroidery to stop herself from thinking about it but the sadness had already taken root in her heart. Why? Why did Raelle have to go through this?

    How could she not feel pain for her? She understood Raelle more than anyone else. She almost Hyson back then, so how could she not know how much it hurt?

    Hyson patted her shoulder as he whispered, "Cry as much as you want. But promise me not to cry again. Even if you look beautiful crying that doesn''t mean I like seeing tears in your eyes."

 Chapter 704 Good Boy

    <h4>Chapter 704 Good Boy</h4>

    Hyson was very ufortable with his mother''s tears but he couldn''t do anything except stroke her back. But he didn''t want to leave her alone at this time as well, knowing well enough that she''ll cry even more. At least, right now, he was able to hug her.

    Seeing how she finally stopped crying, Hyson pushed her away a little and wiped her face with a tissue. "Don''t waste any more tears. If Yanyan found out, I''ll be so dead."

    Yue Yue hit his chest and he yelped as if he was in real pain, "Don''t kill me."

    Noticing her anger, he stopped pretending and chuckled, "Okay, I won''t mess around now. But you have to stop crying now."

    Yue Yue sniffled and nodded her head. Thinking of something, she said, ''You should eat something and then take some rest. After that, go back to the hospital. Raelle needs you in this situation.''

    Hyson smiled helplessly at her, "Mum, the one she needs is already with her. As her best friend, I can''t offer her the support she needs right now. It''s better to let Xian Ge stay with him. She''ll feel better with him around."

    Yue Yue looked at him unhappily, ''How is that the same? You''re her friend. You should also be there for her.''

    "Who said I''m running from my responsibility? I''ll go to her, don''t worry."

    Yue Yue was finally satisfied with his answer. ''I know you''re smart but still, don''t mention the child in front of Raelle. This is a difficult time for her. Even though she is a strong person it won''t change the fact the loss is big this time. I understand how lost she must be feeling. No, it might even be worse for her since she already has to expend extra effort in understanding feelings.''

    "You understand her?" asked Hyson as he raised his brow at her.

    Yue Yue was silent for a moment before she nodded her head and stroked his cheek as she told him, ''I almost you once. And I remember how I despised myself for being so careless. So, yes. I do understand her.''

    Hyson was hearing this for the first time and he wasn''t sure how he was supposed to react to this information that he almost died even beforeing to this world. But do you know what was worse? It was knowing the fact that his mother was all alone in that time of despair. At least, Raelle had everyone to support her.

    "Well, aren''t I alive? Safe and sound? Stop reminiscing about that time." He held her arm and pulled her up, "Now,e with me. Let''s have lunch. You must be tired from shedding so many tears. We should recharge you. And fill up your tears storage space for future purposes." He just wanted to change the topic and move on from this depressing topic that would only make him feel worse. But thatment earned him a p on his arm but he onlyughed in response. "Hmm... I wonder how long Yanyan will take."

    ''She won''t be so easily satisfied.''

    Hyson nodded in agreement with his mother''s statement, "That''s true."

    They were about to go out when Yue Yue held Hyson''s arm and stopped him. Hyson looked at her in confusion, "What''s wrong, mum?"

    Yue Yue pursed her lips and hesitated a little. But eventually, she decided to say it.

    ''Fai, I need you to promise me something.''

    Hyson wasn''t even surprised when she said something like that. And oddly enough, he even knew where this was going. How could he not understand his own mother? He was used to hearing her silence. So, it wasn''t surprising that he could tell what she wanted from him. However, he never had the heart to go against her either.

    "Just say it, mum," he told her. "Have I ever disappointed you?"

    Yue Yue shook her head and mouthed, ''No, my son is the best. Sometimes, I think I don''t even deserve you.''

    "And then you say why I talk so much nonsense. Isn''t it all inherited from you?"

    Yue Yue narrowed her eyes at him but didn''t say anything regarding that. She held his hands and looked into his eyes, ''Son, I just hope you don''t ever hate your father.''

    "You already know I don''t hate him," replied Hyson.

    Yue Yue nodded her head, ''I know. I want to remind you, that I always wanted you to grow up in a loving environment. Don''t let the hate get to you.''

    "Yes, yes," said Hyson casually. He was so used to hearing this by now. All his life, his mother only asked him to be kind and loving towards people. She wanted him to be a good boy and he became one. At least, he seemed like one. "Now, can we go and eat something? The cats and dogs inside my stomach have stopped running by now. Because even they are too hungry to make a scene at this point."

    Yue Yue chuckled silently as she held his arm and walked out with him.

    As they walked into the dining room, Hyson was reminded of something as he asked his mother, "Mum, do you know Ellie''s dad?"

    Yue Yue shook her head immediately.

    Hyson went silent when he got that reply. He looked at Xiang Hulin who was sitting beside Grandfather Xiang and narrowed his eyes. Why did he have this nagging feeling this General knew his mother even if she didn''t know him? But how was that possible?

    Almost immediately, his mind shed with a thought. Right! How could he forget that Xiang Hulin and Zhai Kuijun were friends? However, even if they were friends was it possible for Xiang Hulin to hear about Yue Yue from Zhai Kuijun.

    "Little Fai,e and sit down. I asked them to prepare fish meatballs for you," came Grandfather Xiang''s voice.

    Hyson was instantly pulled back from his thoughts and grinned as he shrugged to himself. Whatever! The thinking was tiring. He should fill his stomach before digging into these thoughts further.

 Chapter 705 Telepathy

    <h4>Chapter 705 Telepathy</h4>

    "Sister-inw, have you met Hebe''s son?" asked Cui Xukun curiously.

    "No," answered Raelle. She showed him Tang Hebe''s phone, "But I talked to his nanny. She sounded really distressed."

    Shui Xian didn''t participate in this conversation at all. While Cui Xukun kept peaking nces at him. Noticing his nces, Shui Xian asked, "What? Why are you looking at me? Do you also think that''s my son?"

    Cui Xukun shook his head immediately, "That thought might have crossed my mind at first but I couldn''t even believe it myself."

    "Oh?" Shui Xian raised his brow at Cui Xukun. "And why is that so?"

    "Because you have never been an irresponsible person," said Cui Xukun. "You''d have insisted on keeping the marriage if Bebe was pregnant."

    "There is also a possibility that she hid it from me," said Shui Xian.

    Cui Xukun shook his head, "No. Because Hebe is also not that kind of a person. She''d never want her child to grow up in an iplete family. Even if she was unhappy with the marriage, if there was a child involved, she''d have stayed."

    Raelle who was listening to them only had one thought, ''A child is a dangerous weapon.''

    Well, wasn''t it? It seemed to her. As Cui Xukun said, Tang Hebe would have even bore with an unhappy marriage for the sake of a child and Shui Xian would never have let her go if a child was involved. Wasn''t that a dangerous scenario?

    She unconsciously touched her stomach. She didn''t have the baby anymore.

    Shui Xian flicked her forehead making her snap back to reality. He looked into her eyes and said, "Let your brain rest."

    Raelle touched her forehead and feigned a yelp, "Ouch! That hurt."

    Shui Xian almost rolled his eyes at her. Wasn''t that reaction speed too slow? And it was so obvious that she was faking it. But he couldn''t me her either. He rubbed her forehead and said, "I''m sorry." He kissed the spot where he flicked her and added, "But I need you to focus. Stop thinking."

    "You can''t read my mind," she said.

    Shui Xian looked at her hand that she still had on her stomach and smiled at her, "Maybe I can. We are husband and wife. We have magical telepathy now."

    Cui Xukun coughed and reminded, "I''m still here."

    "And why are you still here?" was Shui Xian''s response. "Stop talking about Tang Hebe''s son."

    "Oh, okay," was the only thing Cui Xukun say. He did want to argue but he noticed it wasn''t the right time at all.

    At this time, Cloe came back and served the meal to Raelle. She actually heard a part of the conversation and decided to speak, "Chief, do you think we should bring Miss Tang''s son to the hospital?"

    "But the doctor said it''s not good to stress her or force her to remember anything," said Raelle.

    "We aren''t forcing her," stated Cloe. "We are just gonna bring her son here and let them meet naturally. We won''t have to tell her who he is. Considering that a child always has a special connection with a mother, it''s possible that his appearance might evoke her memory?"

    "I think Cloe is right," said Cui Xukun. "Besides, it''ll be difficult to hide this matter from her son for long as well. He is also young and must be missing his mother. So, there is no harm in letting them meet."

    Shui Xian was helping Raelle with her food but he heard everything and was in deep thought. The person who was most eager to bring Tang Hebe''s memory back had to be him. He didn''t want to hear that ''Ah-Xian'' from her mouth one more time!

    Even his wife didn''t call him that!

    "Let''s discuss this in detail with the doctor tomorrow," said Raelle.

    "Why not today?" asked Shui Xian.

    "We shouldn''t be so hasty," said Raelle. "Besides, temporary memory loss often gets better within 24 hours. We should wait for at least that much before making a decision. Let''s not rush it. We wouldn''t wanna make the situation worse."

    "I just had a discussion with the doctor," told Cloe. "He said Miss Tang''s reports are normal. They didn''t find a damaged nerve which strengthens his belief that this memory loss is more so caused by shock. It''s a psychological thing." She took a pause and added, "If you want should I discuss with the doctor about bringing her son?"

    Raelle waved her hand, "You can do whatever you want."

    "Yes, Chief," Cloe was happy to hear that. But even she wasn''t sure why she was so eager to do something and help in bringing Tang Hebe''s memory back. Well, it concerned Raelle''s life so that meant it indirectly concerned her as well. So, it was normal. At least, that''s what she told herself.

    "Please have your meal, we''ll leave now," said Cloe as she pulled Cui Xukun out.

    Shui Xian blew on the hot soup and brought it to Raelle''s mouth while she obediently opened her mouth and drank it. He knew she won''t talk while eating but he still told her, "Darling, you need to keep in mind that my rtionship with Tang Hebe ended long ago."

    Raelle looked into his eyes and nodded her head. Going against her rules of not speaking while eating, she said, "I understand that."

    Shui Xian wiped the corner of her mouth as he added, "Then don''t ever forget that you''re my legal wife now. Shui Xian is all yours. And all Shui Xian wants is you. If there is a third party between us, that''s your work!"

    Raelle sipped on the soup and swallowed it before saying, "Is that really the third party?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head and told her, "So, in the future, pay more attention to your Hubby."

    "Okay," she agreed without any hesitation.

    No, she always agreed without any hesitation as long as what he said didn''t go against her principles. But today when she agreed so easily to prioritize him over her work, he felt his heart ache a little.

 Chapter 706 Easy To Break

    <h4>Chapter 706 Easy To Break</h4>

    Hyson was yawning as he came downstairs. He went to sleep right after lunch and only woke up when the sun was setting. And as soon as he woke up, he was feeling hungry again. He really had to do something about his appetite which had only been increasingtely.

    Hyson decided to control his hunger and wait for dinner. He wanted to go to Raelle but dropped the idea for now. He should go after dinner. In this way, he''d take something for her to eat as well.

    "Yue Fai, why don''t youe and sit with us?"

    Hyson rubbed his eyes and looked at Xiang Weimin before shrugging his shoulders. He came to sit down with him and Xiang Wai. There was no one else in the living room at that time. "What''s up, Lieutenant?"

    "Nothing, I just thought we hadn''t sat down and had a chat in a while," replied Xiang Weimin.

    "You''re not really a chatty person," Hyson pointed out.

    Xiang Weimin smiled slightly, "But I don''t mind chatting with you."

    Hyson smiled slyly to himself, "Since you''re giving me the honor, I can''t let you down." He pulled up his legs and sat cross-legged as he faced Xiang Weimin. With a gossipy expression, he asked, "You went to see Yanyan, right?" Xiang Weimin nodded his head. "How was it? Are they entertaining our guest well?"

    Xiang Weimin raised his brow at Hyson''s question, he did not this boy would be interested in that.

    "You don''t have to worry," said Xiang Weimin. "I think you know better that our aunt is a very hospitable person."

    Hyson had to agree with that. Whichever meaning you take behind this ''hospitality'', you couldn''t find faults in Mu Chenyan. Never!

    "Now, if you don''t mind, can I ask you something?"

    Hyson looked at him and nodded, "Sure. Go ahead."

    "How is Raelle?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    Hyson was surprised to hear that question but still answered, "Didn''t you see her at the hospital?"

    Xiang Weimin looked concerned as he said, "That''s the thing. Even if I saw her, I wasn''t able to tell how she was. It''s a little difficult to understand her."

    Hyson tapped his chin thoughtfully, "Is she that difficult to understand? Actually, you shouldn''t think so hard. She is fine. Didn''t she say she was fine? She wasn''t lying. She never does. So, it''s the truth that she is fine."

    "After such an incident, it''s actually hard to believe that she is fine,"mented Xiang Weimin.

    "I understand that," said Hyson. "Of course, this incident had an impact on her. Let me tell you this, Ellie doesn''t like losing things that belong to her. This time she lost her child, and it''s obvious that she won''t be feeling very good. But trust me, it won''t break her down."

    "Right, she isn''t easy to break," said Xiang Weimin.

    "Don''t worry, Lieutenant! My Ellie will onlye out stronger from this," Hyson sounded certain as he spoke. "But I seriously have to ban the color white from her life."

    "Huh?" Xiang Weimin didn''t understand what he meant by thatst sentence.

    Hyson looked gloomy and frustrated as he said, "Nothing good happens when she wears white."

    "That''s superstitious," said Xiang Weimin.

    "Well, I''m not asking you to believe me," said Hyson. "But let me tell you, it was this superstition of mine that pulled me to her. Or else, I wouldn''t have even known something happened to her. Sometimes, it''s okay to believe in the signs nature is giving you. They might not always be true but there is no harm in being extra cautious." He looked around before asking, "By the way, where is your father?"

    "He is with Grandpa," replied Xiang Weimin.

    "He seems to be very scared that if he left Opa''s side, he might not get a chance to be close to him again," Hyson analyzed it perfectly as he chuckled. "I have to say, I never thought Ellie''s father was so cute."

    "Cute?" repeated Xiang Weimin. "Are you sure you''re talking about my dad?"

    "Of course, I am talking about him," replied Hyson.

    "Is something wrong with your aesthetics? How can you find him cute?" Xiang Weimin couldn''t help asking. Because he never thought his father was cute. That word could never be used to General Xiang Hulin who was a prestigious figure in the military. Who didn''t look up to him?

    Although Xiang Weimin had been a cold person and had very few friends even in the army, it didn''t change the fact that he had heard many soldiers talking about their admiration for the General.

    He always knew his father as a serious workaholic. Although he found his act today to be quite embarrassing, he didn''t think his father looked cute.

    Hyson tsked at that, "I think Weimin Ge, you need to change your aesthetics. Stop looking at him as General Xiang Hulin. You might as well look at him as Xiang Tianyu''s son today. You''ll definitely find him adorable."

    Hyson still remembered how Xiang Hulin was putting food in his father''s bowl at the lunch table and also kept peeking at his father, trying to figure out if his father was mad or satisfied with the food he put in his bowl. And whenever Opa ate the food he put in his bowl, Hyson noticed the way General Xiang Hulin''s eyes would visibly sparkle and his lips would tilt up inconspicuously.

    So, for Hyson, Xiang Hulin was cute.

    "Weimin Ge, have you ever been on a blind date?" asked Hyson.

    "No," answered Xiang Weimin. He didn''t know where did this question evene from. What did he even mean by asking this question? "Why?"

    "I was just curious to know," replied Hyson. "Since you have never dated, I was curious if someone took you on a blind date."

    "Why are you suddenly so curious about my rtionship?"

    Hyson sighed, "I have to worry about this. My Opa definitely would like to see a granddaughter-inw." He took a pause and added, "Should I n a blind date for you?"

 Chapter 707 Quality Men

    <h4>Chapter 707 Quality Men</h4>

    "For someone who doesn''t even have a girlfriend himself, you certainly are very eager to push my Ge into a rtionship," Xiang Wai''s voice wasn''t loud but it was audible to both of them. She had been sitting here all along but did these two even notice that?

    No!

    They both pretended like she wasn''t even there! Even her own brother forgot about her. The way she looked at Hyson was like she was ready to burn him alive!

    Hyson smirked when she heard that and looked at Xiang Wai, "Major, you''re very hostile towards me. Did I steal your boyfriend or something?"

    He said it so tantly and with that yful smirk that Xiang Wai was even more frustrated. What the hell! How could he look so good acting like a jerk? This was so annoying!!!

    When she took a calming breath, she suddenly thought of something. Howe Hyson noticed that she was hostile towards him?

    As if reading her mind, he said, "I have a very good eye-sight."

    Xiang Wai rolled her eyes, "I don''t have a boyfriend."

    Hyson chuckled at that, "Of course, you don''t have one anymore."

    Xiang Wai was silent for a moment before she questioned, "Did Yanjun tell you something?"

    Hyson shook his head, "He doesn''t have to tell me anything. I just told you, I have a very good eye-sight. I always see things that others choose to ignore."

    Xiang Weimin looked at these two and raised his brows. Even he could tell that his sister didn''t seem to like Hyson very much but he couldn''t understand why. Wasn''t Hyson very likable?

    Even someone like him grew closer to Hyson almost instantly.

    "You know what, I don''t mind your hostility," said Hyson. "I can understand where this dislike ising from."

    Xiang Wai was surprised to hear that. She really felt a little ufortable at how easily he was able to see through her. What the hell was going on here? She had always been in control of her emotions. She had always been level-headed even in the face of death. How was this young man able to see through her then?

    Unfortunately, Xiang Wai had yet to know that Hyson had a talent. He was better at reading the silence. After all, he grew up in the silence of his mother. And he had to understand the silence of Raelle who neither liked talking nor had the right words to express herself. Was there anyone who was more expressionless than Raelle?

    "Anyway, the fact remains," spoke Xiang Wai. "You don''t even have a girlfriend and you want to look for one for my Ge?"

    "Is something wrong with that?" asked Hyson. "He is older than me. I should help him as the younger one here."

    Xiang Weiminughed at that, "And how are you gonna help? Do you have someone in mind right now?"

    Hyson shook his head, "Although I''m currently surrounded by a lot of females, none of them is up to your standard. But I can keep an eye out for you."

    "Not up to my standard?" asked Xiang Weimin. "What do you think is my type?"

    "The ones I''ve been interacting withtely are only a few types. They are either too willful or too delicate. None will go along with you. The delicate one will be crushed by your imposing aura honed by battles. And the willful one will only get in your way."

    Xiang Weimin smiled, "I don''t think even my mother is all that concerned about my life partner. You look very concerned."

    "I have my reasons," said Hyson. But of course, he didn''t exin his reasons. In fact, it wasn''t all that difficult to understand his reasons either. He was doing it because of Grandfather Xiang. As the eldest and the only grandson of the Xiang family, Xiang Weimin was still single. If it went on, he''ll be another old bachelor like Mu Chenyan.

    And as Hyson had analyzed in the hospital, he thought that it was dangerous. Everyone was really too single around him. He had to do something about it. But the only positive was that his best friend was married. Maybe he should go and thank Grandfather Xiang for that.

    Considering how this whole family seemed allergic to rtionships, Hyson thought he had to step in and do something. Although he wasn''t any better than them. Maybe that''s why he fits right into this family. Because he was also someone allergic to rtionships.

    "I''m in no hurry," stated Xiang Weimin.

    "I can see that," replied Hyson. "I mean if you had been in a hurry, your child would have already been old enough to go and buy soy sauce."

    Xiang Wai chuckled when she heard that and agreed, "I agree with that, Ge."

    "And now you''re taking his side?" asked Xiang Weimin as he stared at his sister.

    "I am just speaking the truth," said Xiang Wai as she shrugged nonchntly. "If you had started dating early, you''d have really had a kid old enough to buy soy sauce now. But you kept running from dating for so long."

    "Who is running from dating?" retorted Xiang Weimin. "It''s just that I never found the right person."

    "You never even tried looking for that right person," was Xiang Wai''s response. "You have more interest in your jets than you''ve ever taken in any one of the opposite gender."

    Xiang Weimin cleared his throat while Hyson asked, "Weimin Ge, do you want me to look for a guy for you? I know quality men!"

    Xiang Waiughed out loud when she heard that, she was reminded of what her brother had said a few weeks ago in the Song family. Meanwhile, Xiang Weimin didn''t look too good when he heard that. He really wanted to knock open Hyson''s head and see what was up with him?

    "Fai, I am not interested in any quality men," replied Xiang Weimin as calmly as possible.

    "What a shame!" was all Hyson said making Xiang Wai clutch her stomach andugh even louder. She couldn''t stop it anymore. This was so funny.

 Chapter 708 Trust His Judgment

    <h4>Chapter 708 Trust His Judgment</h4>

    Xiang Weimin didn''t expect to see his sisterughing so unabashedly at his own expense. But he felt like it was a long time since hest saw herughing like that. So, he didn''t mind it at all.

    She couldugh at him all she wanted. It''s not like he was gonna lose a piece of his flesh or something.

    "Did I say something wrong?" asked Hyson innocently.

    Xiang Wai was shocked by the way he just changed. She thought when her brother said that Hyson was like an innocent little kid, he was mistaken. But now, she had to say, this young man really knew how to look innocent when he wanted to.

    Suddenly, she even questioned herself. Was he really innocent or just good at pretending?

    The truth was, Hyson, didn''t really think he said something wrong. Of course, he didn''t know the inside story between Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai, so his innocent confusion was perfectly justified.

    "You don''t have quality women to introduce to me, but have quality men?" asked Xiang Weimin changing the topic.

    Hyson nodded his head, "I don''t spend that much time with women."

    "Aren''t you from the showbiz world? Aren''t there a lot of beautiful actresses?" asked Xiang Wai. "Can''t you introduce one to Ge?"

    Hyson shook his head immediately, "Even if I''m in showbiz, I don''t know that many women. Besides, as I said earlier, they won''t go along with Weimin Ge. We need someone strong yet gentle at the same time."

    "Where are you gonna find someone like that?" asked Xiang Wai curiously.

    "The world is a big ce," said Hyson. "If I can find someone like Raelle, I don''t it''ll be hard to find a partner for Weimin Ge. I''ll have to keep my eyes wide open from now on."

    *Bzzzz*

    Hyson looked up and found a maiding toward him, "Young Master, your phone had been ringing."

    Hyson frowned when he heard that. He obviously left his phone because he didn''t want to be disturbed but he forgot where he was. He took the phone and looked at the caller id.

    "Hello, Miss Sora!"

    "Yue Fai, how are you?" asked Sora from the other side.

    "I''m good," said Hyson. "I''m sorry for leaving so suddenly. I know it might affect the shooting. I apologize to you for that. But it''s a little difficult for me toe back."

    "Oh, I didn''t call for that," said Sora hurriedly. "I heard from your manager that there was an emergency in your family so you had to leave. Don''t worry about the work. I''ve talked to Amiah. We''ll reschedule your scenes. You should stay at home and deal with everything with ease of mind."

    "Thank you so much, Miss Sora," replied Hyson sincerely.

    "Umm..." Sora hesitated before asking, "Do you mind me asking is it serious? I mean you left in such a hurry so I''m wondering if everything is okay? It''s nothing serious right?"

    Hyson took a deep breath and told her, "I can''t tell you in detail but my sister needs me right now. I can''t leave."

    "I understand," said Sora. "Then take care. I''m hanging up now."

    As Hyson put down his phone, he looked at Xiang Weimin who was smiling at him. As if reading his expression, Hyson said, "She isn''t my type."

    Xiang Weiminughed out when he heard that and shook his head at Hyson.

    "Raelle is your sister?" asked Xiang Wai.

    Hyson looked at her, "She is, Major. You got a problem?" Xiang Wai gritted her teeth and Hyson went on, "You must have been thinking I''m here to snatch everyone from you. Your grandfather, your sister, your boyfriend, oh and even your brother."

    "It certainly seems like it," said Xiang Wai unhappily.

    Hyson shook his head and told her, "But the truth is, you just want the attention I have from all these people." Hyson walked closer to Xiang Wai and leaned down to look eye to eye, "Major, there is nothing wrong with asking for attention sometimes. If you kept on this strong front, how will people know what you''re looking for? Learn from me how to act cute. I''ll give you free sses considering how you share the same blood as my best friend."

    "Is it alright that I feel like I want to beat you up?" asked Xiang Wai.

    Hyson pulled away and stood up straight. Pushing his hands into his pockets, he saidzily, "You aren''t the first one. Your boyfriend... I mean, ex-boyfriend had been meaning to do the same. But he can''t."

    "But I can," said Xiang Wai.

    Hyson shook his finger, "No. You can''t either. You can''t bring yourself to p my smiling face."

    "You''re infuriating!" was Xiang Wai''s conclusion.

    "Thanks for thepliment," said Hyson. Then he rubbed his tummy, "I can''t control my hunger anymore. I should go and look for something to eat." Then he hummed softly and went in search of food.

    Xiang Wai was left staring at her brother who looked amused right now. "And you think he is adorable?"

    "He is," answered Xiang Weimin. "He told you has very good eyesight. He can see your hostility and yet he didn''t mind it at all. He is a very good person. And very easy to get along with. But now I know why you and Yanjun were attracted to each other." Xiang Wai raised her brow at where did this thoughte from while her brother went on, "You both don''t know how to get along with Yue Fai. So, you both are really meant for each other."

    Xiang Wai looked at her brother in disbelief and stood up, "I''m going back to my room. Call me when the dinner is ready." Before leaving, she didn''t forget to say to her brother, "Ge, you should be thinking about yourself now. After all, this adorable Yue Fai is seriously looking for a life partner for you."

    Xiang Weimin shrugged, "It''s okay."

    Xiang Wai gaped at him, "Before this, whoever tried to set up a blind date for you, you never agreed."

    "Because none of them knew what kind of a person I wanted," said Xiang Weimin. "I think I can trust Fai''s judgement."

 Chapter 709 No One There

    <h4>Chapter 709 No One There</h4>

    Sora looked conflicted once she hung up the phone. She looked at the bustling shooting set and took a deep breath before going over to Amiah''s side.

    "Cut!" shouted Amiah. "You both... this is already the third time. Why are you not able to get the right emotions?"

    Before she could continue, Sora announced from the side, "Let''s take a break for ten minutes."

    Amiah looked at Sora and raised her brow inquisitively. Sora held her wrist and pulled her up, "Youe with me. I have something to say to you."

    Amiah followed her silently and asked impatiently, "What is it? Don''t you know I want to finish this shoot as soon as possible? The weather is already very hot."

    "Shut up," said Sora. "And give me a chance to speak."

    Amiah turned silent and nodded her head.

    "Hyson took a break," said Sora.

    "I know that already," replied Amiah. "His manager already told me. Although it''s very unprofessional and irresponsible that he ran off like that, I can''t say anything since he said it''s a family emergency."

    "I just called him," told Sora surprising Amiah a little.

    "And?"

    "And I asked him about this. He didn''t tell me what really happened but..."

    "But?"

    "He said his sister needs him right now, so I believe something happened to his sister."

    "Does he have a sister?" questioned Amiah.

    "Are you forgetting something?" asked Sora. "Last time, who came to seek justice for him?"

    Amiah suddenly recalled Raelle''s face and her face turned ugly. How could she forget that woman? But wasn''t she like Hyson''s best friend or something? However, she did remember what Hyson had told her about his rtionship with Raelle as well.

    "So?" she asked.

    Sora knocked on her head, "Are you an idiot? Can''t you understand it? No matter what happened between you and Raelle Xiang, she is still your brother''s wife. Why do you seem to forget that?"

    "How can I forget that?" retorted Amiah. "I wish I could forget that she is my brother''s wife."

    "Stop being so sour," said Sora. "Think about it with a clear mind. If something has happened to her, then it affects your brother''s life as well. How can you not care about that? I already don''t understand why you have to hate your father but what''s up with being so indifferent towards your own brother? He has always been standing up for you, doing his best to protect you as well. But is this how you''re gonna stay indifferent knowing that he is going through a difficult time?"

    "What do you want me to do?" asked Amiah.

    "Go to them," said Sora like she was talking to a fool. "And don''t ask why. I don''t want to question myself all over again why I''m friend with a fool like you."

    "Who are you calling a fool?" retorted Amiah.

    "Who else deserves the honor of this title except you?" Sora shot back at her.

    Amiah obviously looked unhappy but she couldn''t do anything to Sora. She thought about what she said and eventually nodded her head, "Okay. I''ll go."

    ....

    Using her fingerprint to open the door, Mu Chenyan stepped inside the door. She wasn''t nning oning home tonight. She didn''t think she was done with that Ruan Meilin. But she had toe once a drop of blood stained her shirt.

    Yes, she didn''t like that ring stain on her shirt.

    She had to take a shower and clean up before she''d feel alright. Or else, she''ll continue to feel dirty. What if that delusional disease was contagious? She definitely didn''t want to get that disease from Ruan Meilin.

    "Miss Mu, you''re back," said the help who wasing down the stairs. "Dinner is almost ready."

    "I''ll clean up first," said Mu Chenyan. "Where is everybody?" she asked. "How is Elder Xiang? Is he resting in his room? Did he take his medicine? What about his leg massage? Did he eat his lunch?"

    The help listened to her bombardment of questions patiently and only when she was done did she answer, "Elder Xiang had lunch and we gave him his medicine as well. His leg massage was also taken care of. You don''t have to worry at all. He had been resting all this while, we just called him out for dinner."

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head, "What about Elle? Did you send her the meal ording to my instructions?"

    "Yes," replied the help. "Everything was prepared ording to your instructions."

    "And she finished it all?"

    "I heard that Mr. Shui helped her in finishing everything but he made sure she had her fill."

    Mu Chenyan nodded again, "Right, I shouldn''t worry so much with Xian around her."

    "Yes, Miss Mu shouldn''t be so worried when Mr. Shui is around Missy."

    "Okay, you can do your work," said Mu Chenyan as she ran upstairs. She went straight to her room and took a bath. She changed her clothes and threw the ones she took off in the trash bin. She was definitely never gonna wear it again.

    Drying her hair, she came outside and ran into Xiang Wai.

    "Aunt, you''re back?"

    "Hmm..." Mu Chenyan hummed in response. "What are you doing? Isn''t it time for dinner?"

    "I was just resting in my room," replied Xiang Wai. "Now, I''m going down for dinner."

    "Then let''s go together," said Mu Chenyan and Xiang Wai happily agreed.

    As Xiang Wai seemed to have a lot to ask Mu Chennyan, she kept asking enthusiastically while Mu Chenyan kept answering patiently. She didn''t mind the chattering of Xiang Wai, it was much better than the deadly silence that surrounded Raelle.

    She hade downstairs when she ran into Xiang Hulin. Mu Chenyan stopped in her track. Seeing how she wasn''t moving, Xiang Wai asked, "What''s wrong, aunt?"

    Mu Chenyan pointed at Xiang Hulin, "Is he real?"

    Xiang Wai followed the direction of her finger and found her father. Then she looked at how shocked Mu Chenyan looked and found it funny. She teased her, "Who are you talking about, aunt? There is no one there."

 Chapter 710 Getting A Brother

    <h4>Chapter 710 Getting A Brother</h4>

    "You really don''t see him?" asked Mu Chenyan in confusion.

    "Who am I supposed to see?" was Xiang Wai''s response. "There is no one even there."

    Mu Chenyan frowned and walked over to Xiang Hulin. She stood before him and said in a low voice, "I''ve never had such dreams. Am I getting old?" But then she lifted her hand and her index finger poked Xiang Hulin''s cheek. Her eyes widened slightly when she realized that it wasn''t an illusion. She happily pinched his cheek, "Oh, it''s real."

    Xiang Hulin swatted her hand away, "Why are you pinching so hard?"

    "Of course, to make sure that you''re real and I''m not just dreaming," she replied righteously.

    "Why didn''t you just pinch yourself?" he inquired.

    "That won''t be fun," she replied with a grin. "Ge, you''re really here?"

    "Didn''t you just confirm it?" he retorted.

    She nodded her head up and down repeatedly. She looked so excited that she was just short of jumping to express her happiness. She opened her arms as if she wanted to hug him but stopped. Thinking of something, she said, "Wait here. I''ll be right back. Don''t leave."

    And then she was gone with a whoosh.

    "Papa," Xiang Wai called out.

    "Hm?"

    "Is it just I or aunt is really like a different person around you?"

    "Is she?" Xiang Hulin raised his brow but didn''t say anything else in reply to his daughter.

    Who didn''t know that Mu Chenyan was a tigress but loved to act like a kitten around her brother? There were plenty of people who used to look for him for help. Because everyone knew only he was capable of controlling Mu Chenyan.

    Mu Chenyan ran to Grandfather Xiang and said, "Elder Xiang, Ge is home."

    "I know," replied Grandfather Xiang.

    "You... You called him?"

    "Or do you think he dares to break in here?"

    Mu Chenyan shook her head and pursed her lips before asking, "He''ll stay for dinner?"

    "Or else? Do you want to kick him out at mealtime?"

    Mu Chenyan felt very happy but didn''t forget to ask, "So from now, I can meet him?"

    "I never stopped you from meeting him," replied Grandfather Xiang.

    Mu Chenyan was suddenly stumped for words. Shaking off her thoughts, she ran back to Xiang Hulin and hugged him. Xiang Hulin caught her in his arms and allowed her to embrace him. His lips were curled into a small smile while he kept caressing her hair.

    He felt her shoulders shaking and suddenly felt at a loss.

    "Ge, I missed you so much," she choked out.

    Xiang Hulin''s eyes were brimming with tears as well. "I missed you too, Chenchen. Ge had been very lonely without you," he told her.

    Mu Chenyan looked up at him with tears falling down her face, "I''m sorry. I''m sorry for leaving you alone, Ge."

    Xiang Hulin wiped her tears, "I never med you for that. I can never do it." He smiled at her as he said, "If anything, I should be thanking you for raising my daughter with love."

    Mu Chenyan shook her head, "I didn''t do anything extraordinary."

    "But you have made her an extraordinary woman," said Xiang Hulin.

    Mu Chenyan snickered, "Me? I did that? Nah. She was born extraordinary."

    Xiang Wai looked at this pair of siblings intently and as her own brother walked to her side, she said, "Ge, it seems I really underestimated the bond between Papa and aunt."

    Xiang Weimin looked at his father and aunt who were talking nonstop and didn''t think he had anything to say right now. After all, he never underestimated the bond between his father and aunt. Even if he hadn''t seen them together, being in the same barracks where these two grew up, he had heard way too many stories to figure out that this pair of siblings were said to be exemry.

    Mu Chenyan happily held Xiang Hulin''s arm as she pulled him to the dining room, "Ge, I didn''t cook tonight. But you stay here, okay? I''ll cook for your tomorrow. I promise."

    Xiang Hulin touched her head lovingly, "Okay. Then I''ll be waiting." Because of the age gap between them, he had always looked at Mu Chenyan like his family''s little doll, a princess he had to protect. But this princess was more like a thug when she grew up so his job of protecting her was redundant. The only good thing was, no matter how mighty she was outside the house, she''ll turn into the adorable kitten once she was around him.

    As soon as she reached the dining table, she suddenly thought of something and pulled up Yue Yue to stand beside her. "Ge, this is my best friend. She is Yue Yue. Not only is she my best friend. She is also like my sister."

    Xiang Hulin looked at Yue Yue before saying, "If she is Chenchen''s sister, she is definitely my sister. I''ll definitely protect her."

    Mu Chenyan was very happy and satisfied to hear that. Obviously, that was exactly what she wanted to hear from him and that''s why she introduced her to Xiang Hulin. Don''t even for a second think Mu Chenyan didn''t have her own purpose for doing this. After all, she had already seen that Xiang Hulin was close to Zhai Kuijun. She had to make it clear to her brother on which side he was supposed to stand if the situation asked for it.

    And how could Xiang Hulin not understand these sneaky thoughts of his sister? He was more than just familiar with her antics and her thoughts. But he didn''t mind it. As he told her, if Yue Yue was someone his sister considered her own sister, he didn''t mind standing on her side. Yes, Zhai Kuijun was his friend but he''d still take his sister''s side if he had to.

    On the other hand, Yue Yue was suddenly overwhelmed. How did she manage to get a brother when she was just sitting there?

 Chapter 711 Hi, Senior

    <h4>Chapter 711 Hi, Senior</h4>

    "Mum, congrattions on getting a powerful elder brother for free," came Hyson''szy voice.

    Mu Chenyan looked over and found him with his head on the dining table.

    "Little Fai, what''s wrong?" she asked in concern.

    Hyson immediately looked up and showed his grievance to Mu Chenyan, "Yanyan, I''m hungry."

    Mu Chenyan was startled when she saw him like that, "What?"

    Hyson nodded his head and pointed at his mother, "She didn''t let me eat anything before dinner." He sighed, "I woke up because of hunger. I tried to control my hunger as well but eventually, I couldn''t do so. So, I went to look for some snacks to pad my stomach. But mum didn''t let me eat anything."

    Mu Chenyan gave Yue Yue a look of dissatisfaction, "Is this how you treat my godson when I''m not around?"

    Yue Yue was too tired even to want to deal with the dramatic pair of godson and godmother. She was too used to them so she chose to ignore them and sat down to eat.

    "Ha! What kind of attitude is that?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Yue Yue looked at her and used her hand signs to say, ''Aren''t you tired? Eat something first.''

    Seeing how her best friend was showing concern, she decided to drop it. She just put more food into Hyson''s bowl saying, "Little Fai, eat more."

    "Yes," replied Hyson as he gobbled up the food. He was the first one who finished his food and stood up. Usually, he''d wait for others to finish before leaving the table, but today was different. "Since I''m done, I''m gonna go deliver food to Ellie. So, goodbye everyone!"

    "Ask her what she wants to eat tomorrow?" shouted Mu Chenyan from behind. "I''ll make it myself."

    "Okay!"

    Hyson took the car to the hospital and went straight to Raelle''s ward. He walked inside and paused. Shui Xian was hugging Raelle from behind as theyy on the bed together. They were speaking in a low and soft voice. In fact, it was obviously Shui Xian who was speaking while Raelle would add a word or two.

    "Dinner is here!" announced Hyson loudly.

    "Why is the dinner sote?" asked Raelle.

    "Because I was busy eating," replied Hyson. "But I came as soon as I finished eating."

    "You could have sent someone else," reminded Raelle.

    "How can I do that?" asked Hyson. "I had toe myself."

    "If you wanted toe, then you should have brought the food to me first," said Raelle.

    "I just told you, I was hungry," replied Hyson.

    Shui Xian decided to speak up since these two were going back and forth on the same thing. He couldn''t see it anymore. "Okay, let''s eat now while the food is hot."

    "Xian Ge is right," said Hyson.

    While Shui Xian set the table for Raelle and served the food, Hyson was sitting on the chair with one leg over the other. He seemed to be thinking something. Eventually, he asked, "So, how is Miss Tang Hebe?"

    Shui Xian paused but immediately continued to put the cutlery before Raelle. However, he didn''t say anything in reply to Hyson''s question.

    Observing the expressions of Shui Xian, Hyson asked, "Don''t tell me she has amnesia."

    Shui Xian looked up at him in shock. "How do you know?"

    Hyson stood up, "What the...! I''m right? Really?"

    Shui Xian didn''t expect Hyson to catch up with this so soon. So, he told him everything. Hyson listened attentively and looked over at Raelle who seemed to be eating in silence. His eyes narrowed before he smiled and said, "Where is Miss Tang?"

    "Why?"

    "I want to go and see her," replied Hyson.

    "Again, why?" was Shui Xian''s question.

    Hyson tsked at him, "Xian Ge, I had always been curious what a real-life amnesiac person looks like. Now that the opportunity is right in front of me, I should take it, no?"

    Shui Xian gave Hyson an odd look. He couldn''t understand Hyson. Oh, wait! There was nothing new about that. He couldn''t understand Hyson from the beginning. He should be used to it by now.

    He patted his shoulder as he said, "I''m going now. I''ll look for the doctor to understand what part of Miss Tang needs fixing."

    "She isn''t a machine, she is a human," reminded Shui Xian.

    Hyson shook his head, "Xian Ge, humans or machines. It''s all the same. Just as machines need some oil once in a while, humans do too. So, I''m going to figure out what part of Miss Tang needs some squeaking."

    Hyson went to find the doctor while Raelle patted Shui Xian''s shoulder, "Let him be. Eat something. He is curious about Tang Hebe''s condition, he won''t stop unless he figures out everything."

    "He is a very curious person,"mented Shui Xian.

    "Everyone knows that," said Raelle.

    Meanwhile, Hyson first looked for the doctor and then went to Tang Hebe''s ward once he understood her condition. Tang Hebe was taken aback to find an unfamiliar face in her room and seeing Hyson''s handsome and smiling face, she didn''t even know how to react.

    Hyson on the other hand was acting like he was just meeting an old friend, "Hi, Senior! What''s up?"

    Tang Hebe frowned at the way he addressed her.

    "How are you feeling now?" Hyson didn''t think much about her silence as he went on, "I brought you some dinner as well. Hospital food must be very nd and boring. I can understand."

    While he put the food box in front of her, she couldn''t help asking, "Excuse me, did you find the wrong person? I can''t seem to recognize you."

    Hyson smiled at her, "Of course, you can''t recognize me. It''s the first time we are even meeting. How can you recognize me? However, that doesn''t mean I don''t know you. You on the other hand, definitely don''t know me. But that''s okay, now that I''m here, you''ll eventually get to know me."

 Chapter 712 Saved Someone

    <h4>Chapter 712 Saved Someone</h4>

    In a situation like this, Tang Hebe was supposed to be vignt about this ''stranger'' who had juste to her room. But the thing was, she couldn''t bring herself to put up her guard against him. The way he was looking at her clearly showed he held no malice or evil intentions. He even brought her a warm meal to save her from the nd and boring hospital food.

    Looking at the bowl of hot porridge he poured out for her, she was at a loss.

    "Thank you!" she said to him.

    It was sad but the reality was that from the moment she opened her eyes, he was the first person who offered her a genuine smile. One that was not only heartfelt but also warm. How could she not let her guard down?

    She wasn''t blind. She might not be the smartest pea in the pot, but she was still able to see theplicated emotions on Shui Xian''s face when he interacted with her. And look, he didn''te back to see her after that either.

    The Shui Xian in her memory wouldn''t even move from her side if she only had a little fever. And this time, she was seriously injured but he wasn''t by her side. He looked at her like they were strangers. It really hurt her heart but even more so, she was confused.

    "How do you know me?" she asked Hyson.

    "You''re my senior," he told her. "We graduated from the same university." Since Shui Xian and Tang Hebe studied in the same university and while Shui Xian was Hyson''s senior, so was Tang Hebe. It was not like he was just lying right now.

    "Oh..." responded Tang Hebe lightly. "Then what are you doing here?"

    "I came to see you," replied Hyson. "Because I was always curious how someone with amne..." He paused and didn''t finish his word. Well, the doctor just told him that Tang Hebe didn''t know she had amnesia. He almost slipped up there.

    Much to his surprise, she smiled softly at him, "Someone who has amnesia?"

    Hyson''s eyes widened slightly and looked at her. "You... You know?"

    Tang Hebe pressed her lips together, "I''m not blind." As he furrowed his brows, she pointed towards the wall where he found the digital wall hanging. Not only the time was disyed on it but also the day and date.

    Hyson had a look of realization and facepalmed himself.

    She was silent for a while before she added, "I thought I was mistaken but then I turned on the tv and it turned out, over five years are really gone from my memory. There are only two possibilities I can think of, one; I''ve been in aa for the past five or six years, and two; I have lost my memory of those years." She looked up at Hyson as she told him, "And I think it''s my memory. Otherwise, I wouldn''t feel so lost. I suddenly feel the world changed all of a sudden."

    Hyson pursed his lips. Was it okay that he actually felt bad for her? Well, he could only me his beautiful heart. A beautiful person like him really has a beautiful heart. Yes, he was praising himself. And he didn''t mind doing so at all.

    Jokes apart, he was seriously feeling bad for her. He couldn''t even imagine how she was feeling right now. Overnight, her world turned upside down. What was she feeling right now? The past five or six years of her life suddenly vanished from her mind.

    "I really don''t know you?" asked Tang Hebe.

    Hyson shook his head, "No. This is our first meeting." He paused for a moment and added, "You saved the life of someone very dear to me. I feel like it''s my responsibility to check up on you and see how you''re doing. It''s just a bizarre coincidence that you turned out to be my senior." He smiled at her gently as he went on, "Our whole family is indebted to you right now."

    Tang Hebe was surprised to hear that and asked, "I saved someone''s life?"

    Hyson nodded his head, "Yes, and that''s the reason why you''re here in this condition." He bowed to her and said, "Thank you very much! I can''t tell you just how much we feel thankful to you for what you did. You didn''t just save one person, you saved everyone rted to her as well." He wasn''t just speaking nonsense. He was being very honest.

    He knew very well what kind of hell they all would be in if anything happened to Raelle. Currently, they were all ming themselves just because they couldn''t protect Raelle''s child. What could have happened if she was the one who was seriously hurt? At least, he didn''t think he''d ever be able to smile ever again if she wasn''t around anymore.

    He could never deny the fact that Tang Hebe saved Raelle''s life. He was sincerely feeling indebted to her. No matter how yful he was around Shui Xian and Raelle earlier, he obviously was very serious right now.

    Even Tang Hebe who didn''t even know whom she saved felt surprised to see him like this. He looked like she saved his life instead of someone else''s. It made her wonder just what was the rtionship between this person and the one she saved.

    "Who did I save?" asked Tang Hebe curiously. She didn''t think she was a selfless person. Yes, she didn''t think she was evil, heartless, or vicious as well. But she wasn''t all that kind either.

    So, she wondered what kind of a person she saved? Forgetting about her own safety, she actually saved someone else? Even she couldn''t believe it for a moment.

    "I''ll introduce you to her," answered Hyson. "You''ll really like her." When he said that, he had a sparkling light in his eyes as if the whole starry night was hiding in his eyes.

    "Since such a handsome person is saying, I''ll take your words for it," said Tang Hebe.

 Chapter 713 An Enigma

    <h4>Chapter 713 An Enigma</h4>

    Tang Hebe first noticed something was amiss from the moment when she saw Cui Xukun appear all of a sudden. She was truly taken aback to see him but Shui Xian didn''t look surprised. Also, the moment that Shui Xian called her ''Tang Hebe'' instead of ''Bebe'', made her feel unsettled.

    It was this uneasy feeling that made her keenly observe everything around her. And doing so, she managed to find the date that left her startled. She had to check the tv to figure out if the date was wrong but something told her, the date was right. Eventually, she was proven right.

    To be very honest, when she first realized that she lost her memories, she was not only feeling lost. She felt very scared as well.

    She didn''t even understand how she managed to actuallye to terms with that. She''d have cried and made a scene but she couldn''t do so today. It was like her brain actually epted everything pretty easily. For a moment, even she was shocked at how rxed she was even in this situation.

    "With such a handsome face, you should be a star," shemented out of nowhere.

    Hyson raised his brow and gave her a big smile, "What a coincidence! I am a star."

    Tang Hebe understood his words and smiled along with him. "Ah, I would have felt pity if you weren''t."

    "Are you tired?" he asked her. "You need a lot of rest."

    Tang Hebe shook her head gently but felt her headache so she stopped and said, "I just woke up actually. After realizing how the world just fast-forwarded before I knew it, I had to take a nap to calm myself down."

    "You shouldn''t put so much pressure on your head," he told her. "It''s not good for you right now."

    "Actually, I''m not putting any pressure on my head. I feel very light and I have an inkling that if I remembered everything, things will getplicated. So, I want to give myself the pleasure of resting today. I''ll try to think about everything tomorrow."

    Hyson chuckled at her words, "That''s a very interesting thought."

    Tang Hebe grinned at him, "So, how does it feel to meet an amnesiac person?"

    Hyson shrugged, "You aren''t the type I was most curious about. But I still learned something."

    "I''m not the type you''re curious about?" she repeated. "And what exactly did you learn?"

    Hyson patiently told her, "When people lose their memories and forget even their own names, aren''t they like a newborn baby with a clean te?"

    Tang Hebe agreed with those words.

    "But babies don''t know how to talk," he said. "Then howe amnesiac people can talk? They know how to read and write. But they don''t have any memories? I was curious about all that."

    Tang Hebe looked at him strangely before she chuckled softly, "That''s a very interesting question. Suddenly, I''m also curious."

    Hyson was d that she didn''t think he had a nonsense question, unlike his own best friend. Because Raelle''s reply was, ''If you have so many brain cells to waste thinking about all this, why don''t you use those brain cells to do something productive?'' But how was he supposed to exin that he was genuinely very curious!

    However, one thing that Raelle once told him was right, ''You shouldn''t try to understand a human brain. It''s the mostplicated part of a person''s body. You can''t solve the mystery. Just like you''re an enigma to some people, a human brain is to scientists as well.''

    And yes, he was happy to know that he was an enigma to most people.

    "As for what I learned from meeting you," started Hyson. "It''s the fact that just because you lost your memory, it doesn''t mean your brain has gone offline. You''re still very sharp and smart. And that''s very good to know." He took a pause and added, "Also, even if you''ve lost memories, your subconscious reactions are very... new you."

    "New me?" she repeated. "You mean I''ve changed in all these years?"

    "The world is changing every minute, every person is also changing every minute," he told her. "So, it isn''t a surprise that you''ve changed. It''s called growth. If you aren''t growing, you are being very unfair to yourself."

    "By the way, do you know my hus..." She stopped frompleting her words and changed the way, "I mean, do you know Shui Xian?" She didn''t know why but subconsciously, she couldn''t bring herself to say husband once again.

    Hyson smiled knowingly when he noticed her pause. See? As he said, her subconsciousness was very active right now. Even if she was trying to hide from some memories. She couldn''t seem to lie to her subconscious self

    "I do," he answered. "Xian Ge is also my senior. How can I not know him? In fact, we are pretty close."

    "You''re close to him but it''s our first time meeting," mumbled Tang Hebe in a soft voice that barely reached his ears. "Does that mean I am no longer a part of his life?"

    Hyson was taken aback by how keen her senses were right now. What the hell! How did she manage toe to that conclusion with just one sentence from him? He wasn''t even trying to give anything away. How did she notice? Where did he slip up exactly?

    She solved the mystery for him, "There had never been secrets between us. If you''re close to him but I don''t know you at all, it only means we have drifted apart in these years. It exins why he looked so unnatural around me."

    She seemed to have figured out everything and it left him baffled.

    He hurriedly said, "I should leave now. You take some rest. Don''t think so much. Everything will clear up with time. I''lle to see you tomorrow." Smiling at her and waving his hand at her, he ran out.

    He didn''t want to stay and give anything else away. This woman was keener than he thought she was!

 Chapter 714 Keep A Close Eye

    <h4>Chapter 714 Keep A Close Eye</h4>

    Hyson patted his chest once he ran off and muttered to himself, "I thought she''d be in an emotional state right now after figuring out that she had lost her memory. And might even have some identity crisis. Who knew she was so clear-headed at a time like this?"

    He gave her a thumbs-up in his heart and went to look for Raelle and Shui Xian.

    "Xian Ge, your ex..."

    Before he could continue, he looked at Raelle''s face and changed his words, "I mean, Miss Tang is very clear-headed. It seems even without you telling her anything, she might figure out everything."

    Shui Xian didn''t even react to his words he continued to help Raelle clean her arms with a wet towel.

    "You don''t look surprised?" asked Hyson.

    "Why should I be?" was Shui Xian''s response. "She had always been smart. Don''t look down on her intelligence."

    Hyson nodded his head, "You seem to know her very well."

    "Don''t you also know my wife very well?" retorted Shui Xian.

    "Oh, that''s because I live Ellie''s heart," he said. Shui Xian red at him as he added, "Well, you''re also there. Why are you ring at me like that?" He ignored Shui Xian and looked at Raelle, "Ellie, I''ll take you to meet Tang Hebe tomorrow morning."

    "Why?" asked Shui Xian defensively.

    "I''m not taking her for a confrontation or something," replied Hyson. "I just think Miss Tang should meet the person she saved."

    "Okay, I''ll go with you," said Raelle before Shui Xian could say anything. "You should go back home now."

    Hyson was unwilling but he still nodded his head, "Then take care. I''ll see you in the morning."

    "I thought he won''t leave tonight,"mented Shui Xian.

    "He didn''t leave," answered Raelle. "He must be looking for a ce to crash. But he definitely isn''t gonna leave tonight."

    Shui Xian nodded his head when he heard that from Raelle. In this case, he definitely trusted her more. After all, she was the one who knew Hyson inside out. Besides, he also felt like Hyson wasn''t someone who''d really leave just because Raelle said so. The one person who loved to and dared to go against Raelle''s words was definitely Hyson.

    Shui Xian helped Raelle change into a new patient gown and settled her on the bed once again. Yes, he had to do it because his wife was a clean freak even if she didn''t appear like one. She couldn''t ept the fact that she had been wearing the same hospital gown for over 12 hours. How was that eptable?

    She already wasn''t allowed to take a shower. Wouldn''t she go crazy if they didn''t let her change clothes as well?

    "Do you want anything else?" questioned Shui Xian.

    Raelle looked at the dark circles under his eyes and said, "You shouldn''t be doing this. Why don''t I call Hyson to keep an eye on me while you go home to sleep?"

    Shui Xian shook his head and told her, "I won''t be able to sleep."

    "But you aren''t resting here as well," said Raelle. "What if you fell sick while taking care of me? Besides, it''s not like I broke an arm or leg. I can do these small things myself."

    "I won''t be at ease," he said calmly. "And you don''t have to worry about me. I know how much I can handle. I won''t fall sick. I have to make sure you''re okay. How can I allow myself to fall sick?"

    "But you''re clearly not taking care of yourself," she said in a small voice.

    Shui Xian rubbed her head, "Then you take care of me. Keep a close eye on me."

    Raelle nodded, "Hm! I''ll do that."

    Shui Xian smiled helplessly at her. Was this really a time for her to worry about him?

    ...

    On the other hand, Tang Hebe was still lost in her thoughts once she saw Hyson leaving. She was feeling good when he was around. But once he was gone, it was like the whole world''s worries was weighing down on her shoulders.

    The way Hyson ran away from her question made it even more certain to her that things had changed. Not just in this world, but also in her life. She lifted her left hand and looked at her empty ring finger. That emptiness was like a reminder that she had lost something.

    It was normal to not have her wedding ring on her finger since she was a patient who just had surgery. However, there was no ring mark on that finger anymore. She wore that ring from the moment Shui Xian proposed to her and she never took it off for more than an hour. It was quite normal that the ring left a mark on her finger.

    But currently, there was no mark. None at all. As if, she never even wore any ring on that finger. She lightly rubbed her empty ring finger and mumbled, "Just how far have we drifted apart?"

    To be honest, she was a little scared to figure out the answer to that question.

    She knew once the answer came before her, she''ll really end up with nothing once again.

    But rather than crying and making a scene about her memory loss, she was trying to ept the reality as calmly as possible. Even if things changed in her life in the past years, she felt like she needed to know what really changed. The world was moving on, how could she hide in the past all on her own?

    "But what should I do?" she questioned herself while she lightly touched her head which had a bandage around it. "Why is my heart so restless?" She couldn''t understand this feeling. Even when she figured out that there was something wrong between her and Shui Xian, she didn''t feel this way. But right now, she felt like she was missing something very dear to her.

    However, all her life only Shui Xian had that ce in her heart. How was it possible that someone else was making her feel this restless?

 Chapter 715 Take You Somewhere

    <h4>Chapter 715 Take You Somewhere</h4>

    Early in the morning, as per her schedule, Raelle woke up and looked around the unfamiliar room. Oh, she was at the hospital. And that too as a patient.

    Sheid there in silence for a while as she gazed at Shui Xian''s sleeping face. Lifting her hand, she pressed her hand against his cheek. In his sleep, he rubbed his face against her palm and continued to breathe evenly. He hadn''t shaved so it was a little prickly to touch, not like Raelle minded at all.

    She continued to look at his face up close. Thinking about what happened yesterday, she felt like she needed to guard her husband more from now. Even if her husband had no intentions toward anyone else, she shouldn''t trust others so easily.

    Let''s take Ruan Meilin for instance, wasn''t she also crazy about her husband?

    And now, Tang Hebe...

    She couldn''t bring herself to have any bad feelings for Tang Hebe though. She knew she wasn''t intentional and even if she didn''t like the way how she called her husband or looked at him with that undisguised love in her eyes, she was still able to bear with it and think it through.

    She couldn''t me Tang Hebe in such a situation. That''d be unfair.

    But thinking about how she wanted to hide her husband from Tang Hebe yesterday on impulse, Raelle fell into deep thought. How should she say it? She had never had such impulses before. So, she was quite unfamiliar with it. But she couldn''t deny the fact that she wasn''t okay with anyone eyeing what belonged to her.

    "So, what''s the n?" she heard Shui Xian''szy voice as he woke up.

    "Huh?"

    Shui Xian opened his eyes slightly and asked again, "The way you''re holding my hand, it seems like you want to tie me to yourself. So, I''m wondering if that''s the n?"

    Raelle looked down and found that she was indeed holding his hand a little too tightly. So tightly that his hand had turned red from her force. But she didn''t feel guilty. What was guilt? Even if she felt it, she won''t know. As long as she didn''t know what guilt felt like, she could pretend like she didn''t know anything about it.

    "The n is to hide you from the world," she told him honestly.

    Shui Xian chuckled at that and kissed her forehead, "Okay. Then make sure to guard me well and closely."

    "I will," she said. "I won''t let anyone steal you."

    Shui Xian touched her nose, "Silly."

    He got up and washed up before he came out and asked, "Why are you up so early?"

    Raelle looked outside the window and said, "My morning walk."

    Shui Xian had a look of realization. Indeed, if this woman doesn''t go out for her morning run for one day, she''ll not feel at ease. And she didn''t go yesterday since she hadn''t woken up yet. But today, she was already up at her time. She must be really wanting to go out.

    But...

    "How about we skip it for a few days?" he suggested.

    Raelle lowered her head, "That..." she didn''t know what to say. Should she agree? Or not? Why was it so difficult to decide? It had never been so difficult to decide anything. Why was this question stumping her so much?

    Perhaps, it was because, from a very young age, she''d go out for a run every single day. It was a part of her daily routine. She''d be missing something if she didn''t follow that routine. And that didn''t sit well with her.

    Shui Xian rubbed her head, "Be good. Once you discharge, I''ll take you somewhere."

    "Where?" she asked.

    Originally, Shui Xian was only gonna tell her once she was discharged but now, he decided to just let her know. He sat down with her and held her hand as he told her, "Our child is gone before we could meet him." Raelle looked at him as he continued, "Although we can''t really hold a funeral for him, I still feel uneasy just letting that child go like this. I feel like everyone will forget the child and the child will feel lonely wherever he is gone."

    Raelle didn''t think so much was going on in her husband''s mind.

    "So, I''ve decided that we''ll go to the temple once you''re discharged and burn some incense for him. Also, we''ll ask for some merits for the child."

    Raelle leaned her head on his shoulder as she said, "How will he feel lonely? Aren''t you here keeping him in your memory? Even if the whole world forgets, I think the baby will be fine knowing that his dad remembers him."

    Shui Xian smiled bitterly at that. How was he supposed to say that he just wanted to do something right now? Something to remind himself and everyone that that child wasn''t just an illusion. The child they never even got to see was still a part of them. And he deserved recognition.

    "Hubby, you love thinking and making yourself sad," said Raelle.

    "But didn''t you that from the beginning?" he asked.

    Raelle nodded her head, "Indeed, I knew from the beginning that you''re an overthinker. Remind me why did I agree to marry you?"

    "How would I know?" he replied. "Even I''m wondering what made you agree to marry me just after that one meeting." He held her chin to make her look up at him as he asked, "Don''t tell me you''re regretting your choice now though. It''s already toote for that."

    "Who said I''m regretting it?" she responded. "As for why I chose you, didn''t I tell you that already?"

    "You did? But I think my memory is bad, I seem to have forgotten whatever you told me," he said. "Why don''t you repeat it for your husband?"

    "No," said Raelle. "Raelle Xiang doesn''t like repeating herself."

    "Pfft!" Shui Xianughed out loud at that all too familiar dialogue of hers.

 Chapter 716 Go After Her

    <h4>Chapter 716 Go After Her</h4>

    *Ring*

    Raelle heard her phone ringtone but she couldn''t find her phone around her. She looked up at Shui Xian. Clearly, he was the one in control now. He had taken her phone from her since he didn''t want her to use it to even read some work emails.

    And seeing her tablet andptop... Haha! That was already out of question!

    "I can take the phone call, right?" she asked him.

    Shui Xian relented and brought her phone to her. It''s not like he really wanted to confiscate it. If not for her workaholic habits, he wouldn''t be keeping her phone with himself.

    Seeing that it was Anna''s call, Raelle picked up the call.

    "Missy," came Anna''s voice from the other side.

    "I''m here," replied Raelle.

    "How are you now?" asked Anna.

    "I''m fine, thank you for asking."

    Anna smiled at her reaction and decided to get to the topic, "It''s about what you asked me to investigate yesterday."

    "Howe it took you almost 24 hours to investigate something?" asked Raelle. She genuinely wanted to know the answer to that question. After all, she knew her people and their capabilities. Even if the incident happened years ago, it shouldn''t take her team this long to investigate everything.

    "I apologize for taking so long," said Anna. "It''s just that we were looking for the people involved and had to get a confession from them as well. Gathering the evidence took some time."

    Raelle wasn''t surprised that they not only investigated everything but gathered all the evidence as well along with catching the people involved. Well, these people would always do things thoroughly.

    "So, how did the investigation go?" asked Raelle.

    And that''s when Anna gave her all the details she asked for her. Clearly, what Tang Hebe knew was only a small part of everything.

    After she hung up the call, she found Shui Xian sitting by her side peeling apples. "Hubby, I just had breakfast."

    "We should have some fruits in breakfast as well," was his response as he continued to peel the apple like he was doing artwork. He nonchntly asked, "What was the call about?"

    Raelle looked at him in silence and when he didn''t hear a reply, he lifted his eyes and met her gaze in confusion. Why was she just staring at him in silence?

    "It''s about your sister," she told him. Shui Xian paused in his action while she asked, "Do you want me to continue?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "Let''s hear about it."

    Raelle then told him, "I know the reason why you kept Ruan Meilin around was that she saved Amiah''s life. But what you don''t know is that Ruan Meilin was the preparator of the whole incident. She knew your weakness well and she yed with it as well. That night Ruan Meilin already knew where Amiah was meeting her friends and all she had to do was bribe one of her friends to drug her. And then she had her own paid thugs prepared for the drama. Originally, the n was to ruin Amiahpletely but Ruan Meilin felt like if she didn''t save Amiah on time, she might not get anything out of it." She took a pause and noticed how Shui Xian ended up actually cutting his thumb with the fruit knife in his hand. He looked really angry at the moment. "She just wanted to use Amiah to get to you and she seeded in doing so. She believed that once Tang Hebe was out of the picture, you''ll eventually ept her since she was just another copy of Tang Hebe."

    Saying that she held Shui Xian''s bleeding thumb and put it into her mouth.

    Feeling the warmth of her lips wrapped around his thumb, his eyes regained their focus and he looked at her. For a moment, he didn''t know how to react. He was wondering if she was really his wife. How did she think of putting his bleeding thumb into her mouth? That was so not like her but since he was the sole person to get this privilege, he''d happily take it.

    *Crash*

    Both of them looked over towards the door at the same time. Shui Xian was stunned to see Amiah standing at the door. There was a look of disbelief on her face as she felt her mind buzzing. She couldn''t believe what she just heard right now. The bouquet of flowers and her phone both fell down from her hands because of how shocked she was right now.

    She only came to see her brother and his wife because she didn''t want to be a heartless sister. She was already someone with a bad reputation as a sister and as a daughter and she knew that all too well. So, she didn''t want to continue being a jerk to her brother at the very least.

    Who knew that when she knocked gently on the door and pushed the door open, she''d end up hearing something like that? She had long been the reason behind her brother''s worries but she just realized, she was also a big burden.

    "Amiah," called out Shui Xian.

    Amiah wiped her tears and bent down to pick up her phone and the bouquet of flowers. She walked in and ced the bouquet on the table saying, "I''m sorry. I shouldn''t havee. I''ll leave now."

    Then she turned around and ran out. Shui Xian was still staring at where she just stood in shock. The arrival of Amiah waspletely unexpected to him and that too right at that moment when he wasn''t even able to think straight.

    He suddenly looked like a lost puppy as he turned to Raelle with an incredulous look. Raelle patted his shoulder and said, "Why are you standing here? Go after her."

    "But..."

    "But what? Do you think your sister is to me for anything in this?" she asked.

    Shui Xian shook his head immediately. He didn''t think Amiah was at fault for whatever Ruan Meilin did.

    "Then go after her," repeated Raelle.

 Chapter 717 Bullying

    <h4>Chapter 717 Bullying</h4>

    Amiah was feeling horrible as she ran out and ran into Hyson. She bumped into his chest but didn''t pull away from him. She wrapped her arms around his waist and cried even harder.

    Hyson''s body stiffened like he was a wooden board. He had the urge to push her away. Let''s be clear, he wasn''t very fond of physical contact with strangers either, especially with women. There was only so much space for thedies in his life.

    "Didn''t you go to see Xian Ge? Why are you back so soon?" he asked after suppressing the urge to push her away. "Did he bully you? I don''t think that''s possible though."

    He really didn''t think Shui Xian was capable of bullying his own sister. Heck, that man was willing to offer his everything for his sister, why would he bully her? In fact, Hyson even thought that the first time Shui Xian even talked harshly to Amiah had to be because Raelle was involved. And that was the truth as well.

    Originally, Amiah had onlye to check up and see what happened with Raelle which made Hyson take a leave so urgently. Although Sora was the one who gave her the push, it wasn''t like she didn''t want toe at all.

    She wasn''t sure about Raelle''s condition beforeing to the hospital. Coincidentally, she ran into Hyson downstairs where he was carrying his yogurt drink while leisurely taking a walk in a hospital corridor. The sight was really something new to her.

    Since she ended up meeting Hyson, she stopped him and sat down with him to hear about what happened. Considering how Amiah was Shui Xian''s sister, Hyson didn''t hide anything from her. And told her everything from how Raelle had a miscarriage, Tang Hebe has amnesia and Ruan Meilin is the culprit.

    She was already feeling soplicated once she heard about Ruan Meilin''s involvement in this incident. She couldn''t believe it actually. She had trusted Ruan Meilin for years. Precisely from the night of the incident all those years ago. How could she not be surprised right now?

    Knowing how her brother just lost his child, she felt so sad and angry. No matter what differences they had, he was still her one and only brother. A brother who always stood with her.

    And that''s why when she stood in the doorway and heard everything that Raelle told Shui Xian, she felt her whole world crumbling down. How was it possible? She was in disbelief. How was she supposed to believe it all of a sudden?

    That night was the most horrible memory of her life. One she still had nightmares about. It was all because of what happened that night that she closed herself off and became such a jerk. She was like a porcupine who just wanted to sting everyone just because she was hurt. She always thought that if Ruan Meilin hadn''te to be her savior, she would have lost everything that night.

    Her pride, her dignity, her chastity, her everything! Literally, everything!

    And that''s why she trusted that woman so much. Now, someone was telling her that all this while she was keeping the viin close to her? No, she wasn''t keeping this viin close, she actually pushed that viin into her brother''s life. And now, that viin even killed her brother''s child. How was she supposed to cope with this truth?

    She was breaking down inside. Mentally and emotionally.

    She felt like she couldn''t breathe right now and that''s when Hyson ced his hand on her back and patted it softly. His pleasantly warm voice fell into her ears, "You need to breathe. Slowly breathe in and breathe out."

    She ended up following his words subconsciously and her breathing steadied.

    She pulled away slightly from his embrace and looked into his eyes. With a teasing light in his beautiful eyes, he smiled at her, "Director, I didn''t know you were a crybaby."

    Amiah cried even harder when she heard that and Hyson was startled. He rubbed his nose awkwardly. Okay, he seriously didn''t know how to cate a crying woman. He was even helpless before his own mother''s tears much less before Amiah who wasn''t even close to him.

    And even if his opinion of her wasn''t the worst, it wasn''t all that good either. No, it''d be better to say that he didn''t even bother having opinions about people who were unrted to him.

    "Amiah!"

    Hyson looked behind her and found Shui Xian running over.

    "Xian Ge, I didn''t know you liked bullying your sister,"mented Hyson.

    Shui Xian looked at Hyson and then he looked at Amiah who seemed to have stopped crying. He breathed a sigh of relief and said to Hyson, "Little Fai, how about you stay with Raelle for a while? I have something to talk about with my sister."

    Hyson raised his hands as he stepped back from her while saying to Shui Xian, "I was already on my way to Ellie. I''d be more than happy to spend time with her." He skipped and waved at Amiah, "Director, the world isn''t ending. There is no need to cry like it''s the end of the world. There is always the hope of that sun of tomorrow unless it''s yourst breath."

    "Go!" was all Shui Xian said and Hyson decided to just disappear. It''s not like he wanted to stay here and listen to the problems between brother and sister. He didn''t even need to learn anything from this brother and sister. After all, his rtionship with his sister Raelle was the best.

    They never had misunderstandings and they never even fought!

    Why should he learn from others'' imperfect rtionships when his own was the perfect one?

    This proud brother didn''t bother thinking that he was criticizing Shui Xian unintentionally right now. But even if he realized that he won''t care. After all, as long as it didn''t concern him, why should he think about it? He''d rather go to see Tang Hebe with Raelle. That memory loss patient was at the top of his list of curiosities right now.

 Chapter 718 Hate Will Consume You

    <h4>Chapter 718 Hate Will Consume You</h4>

    Shui Xian looked at his sister who was keeping her head down looking at her toes like a child who did something wrong and now wasn''t able to bring herself to look into his eyes. Shui Xian sighed at that and extended his hand towards her, "Come here."

    Amiah looked at his hand but didn''t move for a good while. She pursed her lips in deep thought.

    "I said,e here," he spoke again.

    Amiah took a step towards him and Shui Xian wrapped his arm around her shoulder, hugging her body close to him. As Amiah fell into that all too familiar embrace, shepletely broke down. She was still able to control herself when she hugged Hyson. At that time, she desperately needed to cling to something and pour out her heart. But eventually, she couldn''t do so.

    However, once that familiar warmth of her brother''s embrace caressed her, she really couldn''t control herself anymore. It was like the walls she had built around her suddenly came crumbling down as she cried her heart out in Shui Xian''s arms.

    In response, Shui Xian didn''t try tofort her with his words. He knew no matter what he said for now won''t have any effect on her. For now, she needed to let everything out. He continued to caress her back as the front of his shirt got damp from her tears. He didn''t even mind that at all.

    In fact, it made his lips curl up slightly. It was like he went back in time. The time when this little sister of his used to hug him like this and cry like a crybaby. Hyson''s evaluation of her was actually true. Although she always wanted to be a cool and suavedy. In reality, she was a crybaby. For even the smallest of grievances, she used toe toin to him and cry her heart out. As if tears didn''t cost anything.

    Well, tears really didn''t cost anything. But ording to his wife, you''ll get dehydrated from crying. So, he should look for some water to make up for the loss.

    "Ge, I''m really sorry," she choked out in between her hysterical cries.

    Shui Xian didn''t reply to that and still continued to hug her silently. He didn''t even know what she was apologizing for. After all, even as a biased brother, he''d say she had done way too many things to apologize for.

    He usually didn''t me her for it. Even he knew that their mother''s death had the worst effect on her. And she desperately wanted to vent. In the end, she vented all her anger on their father. With their mother gone and her strained rtionship with their father, she was already in a very difficult emotional state. And on top of that, she had to go through something like that just because of Ruan Meilin''s obsession.

    He understood that after that night, she really became a different person. A person who hated everyone. Yes, she really hated everyone. Perhaps, she even started to hate him as well even if she never said it. But one thing was for sure, after that night, she never talked nicely to people.

    He was still uncertain how Sora managed to stay as a friend to someone toxic like Amiah. But hemended Sora''s persistence as well and he was thankful to her as well. If it wasn''t for her, his sister would have really been a lost cause in her lone world where she wanted to shut herself up.

    "I see, you still love to cry," hemented.

    Amiah sniffled and looked up at him with her bloodshot eyes. He took out his hanky to wipe her face as he continued, "Award-winning director, Amiah Jade is actually a crybaby. Does people who admire you know that?"

    "Geˇ­" she called out in a voice filled with grievance.

    "Okay, stop crying already," said Shui Xian. He made her sit down on a chair and went to a vending machine. He got her some water and offered it to her. "Here. Drink it and make up for all the tears you shed."

    Amiah was taken aback by his train of thoughts. Why did he look so calm? Wasn''t he mad at her? She couldn''t understand the situation but she still nkly took the water from him and drank it slowly.

    Shui Xian was looking around as if looking for something but when he couldn''t, he took out his phone and texted someone. Then he sat down beside her and told her, "You always have the worst timing to show up."

    Amiah looked at the water bottle she held as she asked, "If I didn''t hear it, you won''t ever tell me the truth?"

    Shui Xian snorted, "Who said that? I''d still tell you everything that Ruan Meilin did to you and to my wife. Yes, I knew the truth would hurt you but so what? Who said life was gonna be easy? Besides, I had to tell you the truth to make you understand that sometimes eviles wearing the mask of goodness. We should be wary of people."

    "I have long stopped trusting people," she told him solemnly.

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "I know. Now, you only hate people. But how long do you think you can live in hate? Eventually, the hate will consume you."

    Amiah went silent when she heard that. Shui Xian ced his hand on top of her head and said, "Do you think I''d me you for anything that Ruan Meilin did? Do you think your brother is that unreasonable?"

    Amiah shook her head sincerely. She knew he wasn''t an unreasonable person. He never had been. And he could never be.

    "Sying," he called the name that her parents gave her in a gentle and loving tone that startled her for a moment. "I''ll never let you carry the sins of someone else. It''ll be unfair to you. But I won''t let the sins youmitted slide that easily either."

    "I''m sorry," she said once again. Because the truth is, she didn''t know what else she could say to him right now. She had way too many things to be sorry for.

 Chapter 719 Rebellious Child

    <h4>Chapter 719 Rebellious Child</h4>

    "Sir!"

    Shui Xian looked up when he heard that call and found someone passing the paper bag to him. He said his thanks and let the man go. Then he opened the paper bag and took out an ice cream tub and gave it to her. "I don''t know about now but you loved your strawberry ice cream after a good cry."

    Seeing that all too familiar smile on his face and the way he offered her that ice cream, she was overwhelmed with emotions and burst into tears again. She was at a loss to see how he seemed like the same brother he always had been.

    The same brother who never hesitated before getting into a fight with anyone for her. He''d do anything to protect her even if she was the one in wrong, he''d still stand by her side.

    And whenever she cried, she''d crave some ice cream after that and even if it was the middle of the night, he''d still bring that ice cream to her. She suddenly recalled how he was even beaten by their mother for sneaking out in the middle of the night to buy her ice cream because they didn''t have any at home that day.

    However, he''d rather get punished by their mother than see her cry. He had always been that kind of a brother who doted on his sister unconditionally. You see, he knew she had been wrong in venting and using their father of their mother''s death but he never got angry with her. No matter how willful and unreasonable she''d be, he''d always be the elder brother who was ready to give in to her.

    Sometimes, she thought she didn''t deserve a brother like him and that''s why she even started pushing him further out of her life. However, she wasn''t able to squeeze him out of her life even after years. He was still looking over her, guarding her like her guardian angel even if she knew nothing about it.

    "Why aren''t you taking it?" he asked when he noticed how her silence prolonged and she didn''t take the ice cream from him. "Don''t like it anymore?"

    Amiah shook her head, "I don''t know. No one offered me ice cream in years."

    Shui Xian couldn''t react to that for a moment. "It''s okay. I''ll start doing it again. Okay?"

    Amiah looked up and met his gaze that didn''t even hide his tolerance, patience, and love towards her. "Ge, don''t you hate me?"

    Shui Xian''s brows knitted up and tsked, "No, I don''t. Why should I hate you?" He opened the lid of the ice cream tub and dug out a spoonful of ice cream. Bringing it to her lips, he added, "Family is a very strange existence in our life. Whether you''re good or bad, at the end of the day, you''re my sister. I can''t deny that. And neither do I want to. It doesn''t mean I don''t get angry with what you do but I can still bear with it."

    "I''m a very bad sister, right?" she questioned.

    "Very!" was his response which stumped her as she stared at him nkly.

    Okay, she epted it herself but did he have to be so blunt about it? And what did he mean by stabbing her right in her chest like that?

    He smiled at her expressions and added, "Did it hurt?"

    "Yes," she epted honestly.

    "Your words hurt me and B¨¤ even more at times," he told her. "But neither does B¨¤ hate you nor do I. We know you''re young and lost. So, all this time, we''ve just been waiting for you to find your way ande back home." His smile was sincere and broad as he went on, "I''m not telling you to change. I''m just telling you, whenever you find your way back, remember toe home. Your family will always be waiting for you with open arms."

    "I don''t know what to say to you," said Amiah. She held the ice cream tub that was in his hands and ate the ice cream finding it extra sweet. She hade to hate sweets in the past years but today, even this extra sweet ice cream was really like the most delicious delicacy in the world. "I heard about your child," she spoke in a soft voice as if hesitating to even bring it up. "My condolences."

    Shui Xian''s movements paused when she mentioned the child but he soon recovered and said, "Well, it''s not like we can fight destiny."

    "How are you coping with this loss?" she asked.

    "Forget it. I never had a child in my life n," he said so nonchntly but the pain in his eyes couldn''t be ignored as well. Even if he said it didn''t matter, anyone could tell that it mattered a lot. He just didn''t want to show his sadness to anyone.

    Hiding his emotions from Raelle was impossible but he was trying his best to hide his pain from everyone else.

    "That was when you''re married to Hebe Jie," she said. "Back then your n didn''t include a child because Hebe Jie couldn''t..."

    "Don''t say it," Shui Xian stopped her from continuing. "It had never anything to do with Tang Hebe. I really never thought about having a child. This time was also a little unexpected. I didn''t even know Raelle would get pregnant. Raising you was already tiring enough. Why would I want to add another rebellious child into my life?"

    "So, you''re saying you don''t want a child because of me?" she retorted.

    "Well, we can''t forget your role in this either," he said.

    "But what about Ra... I mean, what about sister-inw?" she asked him. "Does she also not want a child like you?"

    Shui Xian cleared his throat and said, "She is still young. It''s not an age where she should be a mother. We can take our time and see."

    She could tell that he was just avoiding the topic but she couldn''t do anything about it either. So, she chose to silently eat the ice cream.

 Chapter 720 Godson

    <h4>Chapter 720 Godson</h4>

    "Elle! My little Belle! Good morning!"

    Raelle opened her eyes to look at Hyson and seeing that big toothy grin of his, she wondered if this was a really good morning to make him seem so energetic. But she decided not to overthink that. After all, he was always this lively and full of energy.

    Raelle closed her eyes again and waved her hand at him saying, "Scram!"

    Hyson justughed at that saying, "You wish!"

    As if he was ever gonna take that scram seriously. He''d be the real fool if he did. But luckily, he wasn''t that much of a fool.

    "Are you sleepy?" he asked.

    "No," she answered. "But I''m not allowed to do anything so..." She trailed off not knowing how to describe what she was going through.

    "So, you feel like the world is conspiring against you," Hyson worded out her thoughts for her. "And you feel like the day outside isn''t sunny but rather dark."

    "Couldn''t have said it any better myself," said Raelle.

    Hyson went up to her and pinched her cheek, "You do realize that it''s still Sunday. It''s really not like you are skipping work."

    "But I''ll have to," she said. "No one is gonna let me go to the office. And I don''t even know for how long. I don''t even think my condition is that serious to keep me here in the hospital. Shouldn''t I already be discharged?"

    Hyson poked her forehead, "At this point, you''re not the one who decides whether your condition is serious or not." He pulled off her nket and held her arm saying, "Forget about that. Get up already. Didn''t I say we''ll go to see Tang Hebe? Come with me."

    "Why are you so eager to meet her?" asked Raelle. "Found her quite interesting?"

    Hyson nodded his head like he was pecking on rice, "Is that even a question? If you find her interesting, I''ll feel the same way. We always had this connection." He took a pause and added, "Xian Ge is with his sister."

    "I know."

    "What happened?" he asked.

    Raelle just looked at him and said, "It''s better if you don''t know."

    Hyson pressed his lips together and nodded. If she said it was better for him to not know then he was better off not knowing it at all. Because if Raelle wasn''t willing to share something with him then she definitely had her reasons. And he might be a curious cat, but he still knew his limits.

    "Call a nurse and get this thing off of me," said Raelle as she pointed at her hand where the intravenous drip was attached.

    Hyson pressed the button and when the nurse came, he asked her to help Raelle with her IV. Once the nurse left, he helped her in sitting up before he got on one knee and put slippers on her feet. Looking up at her, he smiled and said, "Shall we?"

    "Sure," saying that Raelle got down while Hyson continued to hold her arm. "I can walk on my own."

    "But I can''t walk on my own," was his response. "I need support. Physical and emotional as well."

    "You? You need emotional support?" questioned Raelle as they walked out of the ward.

    Hyson nodded in reply, "Of course. If it wasn''t for your emotional support behind me, I wouldn''t be so carefree in life now. I''d have grown up to be a gloomy and pessimisticd."

    "I highly doubt that," she said. "You''re pretty optimistic from the beginning."

    Hyson stuck his tongue out cheekily.

    "Hyson..."

    "Yes?"

    "You''ve been talking about everything except for my child," she mentioned.

    Hyson stiffened once he heard that.

    "Why are you all avoiding talking about my child? It almost seems like you are all denying his existence. As if he was just a dream. But he wasn''t."

    Hyson put his arm around her shoulder as he said, "It''s true that I don''t want to talk about the loss of my niece..." Once he looked at Raelle, he added, "Or nephew. I know he was anything but a dream. However, if I talked about him, I''m gonna end up crying again. I don''t want to cry." He blinked his eyes to push back his tears as he went on, "Just remember, no one is denying his existence. We all have our own reasons for not bringing him up."

    He was silent for a moment before he told her, "Mum took Yanyan to the temple this morning to burn some incense for the child. So, trust me when I say that no one is forgetting him. He was a part of you and Xian Ge, we can''t forget him."

    "That''s good to know," she said. "Xian also wants to take me to the temple to burn incense."

    Hyson chuckled, "Oh, that''d be a first for you."

    "Indeed, that''d be a first," she agreed. "I have never even stepped inside a temple before."

    "By the way, your father is now my father," he told her out of nowhere. Raelle stopped to face him as he grinned, "I am serious."

    "Why? Yue Yue is nning on marrying my father?" asked Raelle.

    Hysonughed out, "Nah. They both are now siblings. How can they marry?"

    "Excuse me?"

    Hysonughed even louder as he told her, "So, it happened like this, Yanyan told your father that my mom is her sister. So what does that make my mum of your father? Your father immediately said she is also his sister."

    "Doesn''t that make you my father''s nephew?" asked Raelle.

    Hyson shook his head as he grinned with a cunning light in his eyes, "Well, it''s not the case. Because who am I to Yanyan?"

    "Godson," she replied.

    "So what does that make me to General Xiang Hulin?"

    "Godson?"

    "Bingo!" He happily pulled her along saying, "So, I''m your brother from now on."

    "Hyson, you do realize that you have always been a brother to me right?"

    Hyson stopped and scowled, "Wait, so why am I going round and round toe to that conclusion? You''re already my Jiejie. What was I so happy about?"

    Raelle patted his arm, "Your happinesses from the point that now your mum has another strong support behind her. No one will be able to bully her ever again."

    "I think you''re right," said Hyson seriously.

    "I always am."

 Chapter 721 Hated Her

    <h4>Chapter 721 Hated Her</h4>

    Hyson couldn''t do anything about her narcissism. So, he just let it be. Not like he was any less narcissistic. But he''d like to me her for that as well. It wasn''t his fault. It came all from her.

    Finally, they arrived before Tang Hebe''s ward.

    *Knock! Knock!"

    After politely knocking twice on the door, Hyson pushed open the door and craned his neck inside asking, "May Ie in, Miss Tang?"

    Tang Hebe''s lips involuntarily curled up when he heard his voice and looked at his antics. She was actually wondering why was he so cute?

    "Come in," she said.

    "Okay. Thank you," said Hyson and stepped in with Raelle trailing behind him. Tang Hebe''s eyes were on Raelle when she entered and Raelle''s eyes were on Tang Hebe as well. One could see a little surprise flickering in Tang Hebe''s eyes but Raelle''s eyes were as nk as ever.

    And that flicker in Tang Hebe''s eyes wasn''t missed by either Hyson or Raelle. They both had always been extra attentive. How could they not see the changes in her?

    "Did you have the breakfast?" asked Hyson. "And was it to your liking? You can tell me, I''ll change the menu ording to your liking."

    Seeing how it was Hyson taking care of things for her instead of Shui Xian, Tang Hebe''s belief was getting stronger. Something was really wrong between them. However, no matter what was wrong between them, she never thought there''de a day when Shui Xian won''t evene to see her. From the moment she woke up, she only saw Shui Xian once.

    She couldn''t even pretend that it didn''t hurt because it really did.

    "Thank you but I liked everything on the menu," she told him trying to keep her voice calm. She looked at Raelle and asked, "And who might this be?"

    "Do I need to introduce myself?" asked Raelle. "Something tells me you already know who I am."

    Tang Hebe was surprised to hear that. "Well, wouldn''t it be more surprising if I didn''t know who Raelle Xiang is?"

    Once she said her name, Raelle was even more certain that something was off. No matter how well known she was, she was a very low-key person. Even now, people might not recognize her in the crowd since only one photo of hers was released. But Tang Hebe''s memory was stuck five years ago. Back then, Raelle was an even more private person.

    Except for her business partners, even most of her employees didn''t know what she looked like. Because all her interactions were with the executives and department heads of thepany.

    However, someone like Tang Hebe recognized her? How? Why?

    Raelle could bet anything that her first meeting with Tang Hebe was at the resort. Before that, she really didn''t know Tang Hebe.

    "Someone like Miss Tang Hebe who had never even been involved in the business is actually able to recognize me? I think that is surprising considering the fact that we never even met."

    Tang Hebe smiled at her, "At the point where my memory is stuck, you''re already an amazing woman. Aplished, sessful, admirable, strong woman. But now that five years have passed, I believe you must even more amazing than before." She took a pause and asked, "But I wonder why you''re here?"

    "Oh, didn''t I say I''ll introduce you to the one you saved?" Hyson spoke on cue. Although he found it quite strange that Tang Hebe''s memory had Raelle''s recollection, he knew he couldn''t force her to talk. "She is the one. My best friend. My Jiejie. My family. Raelle Xiang."

    Tang Hebe was actually taken aback when she heard that the person she saved while risking her own life was Raelle. How did that happen? She couldn''t even imagine herself doing that. Why on earth would she save Raelle Xiang whom she had hated for the most part of her life?

    This was ridiculous!

    And unbelievable!

    But from what she could see, it didn''t seem like Hyson was lying. Tang Hebe''s mind reeled. She didn''t even get this kind of shock when she realized that she lost a part of her memory. But knowing that she risked her life for Raelle really shocked her to the core.

    She really wanted to shake herself and ask; WHY?!

    Only she had the answer to that question and currently, because of her memory loss, she couldn''t find the answer she was looking for. She could only try to ept this disbelieving fact thaty before her.

    "Thank you for saving my life, Miss Tang," said Raelle keeping her eyes on Tang Hebe''s face. She didn''t miss a single change in her expression. All were seen by her with keen interest. And because of her observation, she didn''t miss the disbelief in her eyes. And that speck of hatred towards her as well.

    How interesting!

    So, Miss Tang Hebe actually hated her.

    But Raelle didn''t find this hatred in her eyes when they met. Yes, she did see cautiousness in Tang Hebe''s eyes but she didn''t find hatred. This meant that now she might not hate her but at one point in her life, she did. She hated Raelle Xiang five years ago when Raelle Xiang didn''t even know about her existence.

    What kind of situation was this?

    "Do we know each other very well?" asked Tang Hebe. She wanted to know why she saved Raelle and for that, she needed to figure out what kind of a rtionship they had in the past five years.

    Hyson looked at Raelle while she looked at him before telling Tang Hebe honestly, "Nope. We met for the second time only when the ident happened. And our very first meeting was only 5 minutes short. So, I won''t say we know each other well. Because I for one, don''t know all that much about you." She looked at Tang Hebe as she continued, "But you sure seem to know me. The real question is, why? And how do you know about me?"

    "That isn''t really important," said Tang Hebe.

    "It might be important to me," said Raelle. "Or should I say that it might be important to get back your memory as well?"

 Chapter 722 Nightmare Coming True

    <h4>Chapter 722 Nightmare Coming True</h4>

    Raelle didn''t miss the detail of how Tang Hebe averted her gaze and not so subtly changed the topic, "So, did you get hurt as well?"

    She wasn''t even trying to hide the fact that she didn''t want to tell how she knew Raelle. This was really like ying with people''s curiosity. The good thing was that Raelle wasn''t all that much of a curious person. If Tang Hebe wanted to tell her, she''d do so. If she didn''t, Raelle wasn''t the kind to act nosy either.

    However, Hyson was a different case. He was naturally a curious cat and he couldn''t contain his curiosity as well. But he had to do so for now. If he started prying in front of Raelle, his best friend might throw him out. Argh! How frustrating it was to have a best friend who didn''t share your passion for curiosity?

    Tang Hebe pointed at Raelle''s hospital gown as she said, "You look like a patient. So, I believe I didn''t do a very good job at saving your life."

    Raelle didn''t give her the details at all and just said, "Well, it wasn''t all that bad either. At least, I survived." Sitting on the couch, Raelle looked around the VIP ward which waspletely different from her own but it certainly looked like a luxurious hotel room.

    With a knock, Tang Hebe''s attending doctor came inside and greeted them. Then he checked up on Tang Hebe, asking her some questions.

    "Are you feeling a headache?" asked the doctor.

    "It isn''t as bad as yesterday," answered Tang Hebe. "But it''s still there. Mostly, I feel like my head is really heavy right now."

    "You need plenty of rest to recover," said the doctor. "As long as you follow the instructions, you''ll recover soon."

    "And what about my memory?" asked Tang Hebe without any hesitation. "When will I recover that?"

    The doctor was silent for a moment before telling her, "That''s hard to say for now. It depends mostly on you. Whenever you''re ready to face your memories, they''lle back to you."

    Tang Hebe pursed her lips at that. Did it mean she was intentionally hiding from her memories? But why? What could make her want to hide like this?

    Before leaving, the doctor looked at Raelle and said, "Mrs. Shui, you should also not wander outside like this. Your body still needs time to recover. If you caught a cold during this period, it''ll be harder to conceive in the future. How did your husband even let youe outside?"

    "I''ll go back in a while," said Raelle.

    Meanwhile, Tang Hebe felt a chill seep into her heart. ''Mrs. Shui...'' That was her title. But not even once anyone had called her that. But the doctor actually referred to Raelle as ''Mrs. Shui.'' What did that mean?

    Tang Hebe felt her heart beating faster and faster. It was like her worst nightmareing true right before her eyes. A distant memory suddenly shed through her mind. ying like a movie, every scene was vivid in her memory along with every single word that was spoken.

    ~~~

    "Why don''t you like me, Aunt Qian?" An adolescent Tang Hebe dressed in her school uniform sat before ady decked in a branded dress that made her look like an elegantdy of the upper-ss society that she was.

    The woman''s features had simrities with Shui Xian but the anger and distaste in her expressions was something Tang Hebe had never seen on Shui Xian''s face. The woman was none other than Qian Yin, Shui Xian''s mother. From the time she befriended Shui Xian when they were kids, Tang Hebe had been scared of his mother.

    Not because she was a scarydy. In fact, Qian Yin was a kind and gentle woman who loved kids. But she didn''t like Tang Hebe. Even if Shui Xian brought a stray cat or dog home, she was willing to offer her love and care to it but the same was not applied to Tang Hebe. And that''s why Tang Hebe was not even allowed toe over to Shui Xian''s home to y with him.

    There was hardly anyone who didn''t know in their circle that Shui Xian''s mother hated Tang Hebe.

    "Why should I like a disobedient child?" retorted Qian Yin in a soft voice. Even if her words sounded rude, she sounded gentle. "When you first got close to Shui Xian, I warned you to stay away from him. Did you listen to me? Why should I like you then?" Qian Yin took a sip of the lemonade she ordered and asked, "If you asked to meet for this nonsense, then I better leave. I have no time to waste."

    "Wait!" Tang Hebe stopped her. "That''s not why I wanted to meet you..." She licked her lips and clutched her skirt tightly, indicating how nervous she was before this woman. It was a fact that Qian Yin had never yelled at her or cursed at her. Even in all those years, she barely even talked to Tang Hebe a handful of times. But it was also an undeniable fact that Tang Hebe was really scared of Qian Yin. Only because she was the mother of the person she loved the most.

    "Are you waiting for the cherry blossoms to bloom in summer?" asked Qian Yin impatiently. "I really have somewhere to be."

    Tang Hebe mustered up her courage and stood up. She bowed deeply before Qian Yin and said, "Aunt Qian, I love Xian. I have never loved anything or anyone as much as I love him. Please, allow me to be with him! I know you don''t like me. Although I don''t know why, however, I''ll still keep trying to gain your trust and your liking. I''ll do my best as Xian''s life partner. I just want your blessings."

    Qian Yin''s perfectly manicured nails tapped the ss of lemonade ced before her as she said, "Ah! So, you really called me out for this nonsense."

 Chapter 723 Disgusted

    <h4>Chapter 723 Disgusted</h4>

    *shback Continued*

    Qian Yin''s eyes looked around at the people in the cafe who were sneaking nces their way. She sighed out and said, "If you want to talk, just sit down and talk. There is no need to act a drama before so many people. Do you think you can pressurize me into epting you like what your..." She held herself back and didn''tplete that sentence. Closing her eyes, she took a deep breath and said, "Sit back down if you want to talk. Or else, I''m leaving."

    Tang Hebe immediately straightened up and sat down on her chair. She fixed her hair with her hands while Qian Yin continued to dig into the flesh of her palms with her nails. If someone asked what Qian Yin didn''t like about Tang Hebe, her answer would be nothing and everything all at the same time.

    "Whether I ept you or not, does it even matter at this point?" asked Qian Yin. "My son is adamant about only marrying you once he graduated from college. He is yet to graduate high school and he is already telling me that he doesn''t mind moving out with you. Because no matter what happens, he will only marry you." She gnashed her teeth in anger as she said, "So tell me, what drama are you ying before me? My eptance means nothing to you or to my son. You both are selfish. The worst part is, I can''t even me you both. Love had always been that selfish. I''d know that better than anyone."

    "Auntie, it''s nothing like that," Tang Hebe tried to deny it. "You don''t have to listen to Xian. If you... If you won''t ept our rtionship then... Then I..." She wanted to say that she''d step back but she couldn''t bring herself to say that. She couldn''t let go of him. He was the only light in her world. He was the only real part of her life. How could she give up on him?

    "What? You''ll break up with him?" Qian Yin snickered. "Don''t give me that. I don''t even believe a word you say. You say you love my son? One day, when things get hard, you''ll be the first person to back off. Because that''s in your blood!" She took a pause and added, "I told you years ago that I had already chosen my son''s bride and I won''t ept anyone but her as my daughter-inw. Didn''t I tell you that?" Tang Hebe could only nod in response. Qian Yin pulled out the photo of Raelle from her bag as she ced it on the table.

    "Look at her. She is the daughter-inw, I had chosen. She is already in college at this age. She is perfect in every single way. She is smart, beautiful, young, talented, and someone who is born to do great things. She is Raelle Xiang. Remember that name because you can never be her. Never."

    Tang Hebe''s eyes showed how she wanted to protest but she couldn''t do so for some reason. She looked at the beautiful young girl who looked like she was just 12 or 13 years old. But that red pantsuit she wore already disyed her brilliance as she stood beside the famous Professors. Tang Hebe was even more unwilling to give up once she looked at that photo. She felt like the young girl in that photo was mocking her for being useless.

    And she was even more persistent in not backing off. So what if Raelle Xiang had everything? She could still not get her Shui Xian! Because he only belonged to her!

    She just sat there and in a trembling voice asked, "What can I do to make you like me? Even if it''s just a little bit?"

    "Can you change this face of yours?" asked Qian Yin shocking Tang Hebe. "Change your name. Change the blood flowing through your veins. Change everything that makes you Tang Hebe! That makes you a descendant of the Tang family! Change it and I''ll ept you with open arms. Do you know why I said you can never be like Raelle? Not because she is brilliant. That she is. But it''s also because she doesn''te from the Tang family like you. And just for that one fact alone, I''ll be willing to make her my daughter-inw even if she was just a pretty vase."

    Tang Hebe felt her heart clenching at how calmly she said all that. But her words nted a seed of hatred in Tang Hebe''s heart for Raelle who wasn''t part of the Tang bloodline like her. And just because of this one fact, she was eptable but she, Tang Hebe who loved Shui Xian more than her life was still uneptable because she had the Tang family''s blood running through her veins.

    "Actually, my daughter-inw can be anyone," said Qian Yin. "As long as she doesn''t have any connection with the Tang family, I''m even willing to bring a gold digger into my family." She stood up to leave and said, "There is no need to act pitiful with me. I have stopped falling for that. Next time, don''t call me out to meet. It just proves that you''re a hypocrite. Don''t even assume that I don''t know it''s you who suggested to my son that you both can run away to get married once you''re adults."

    Tang Hebe stiffened in her chair once she heard that. It was true she had said that. But she had said it in a moment of emotions. How would she know that Shui Xian would take her words seriously and would even argue with his mother?

    "Auntie, let me exin," said Tang Hebe as she stood up and tried to hold Qian Yin''s arm.

    Qian Yin stepped back to avoid her hand and for the first time, Tang Hebe saw the disgust in Qian Yin''s eyes. She always thought Shui Xian''s mother disliked her. But only at that moment, did she realize, she didn''t only dislike her. She was disgusted by her presence.

    *to be continued*

 Chapter 724 Invisible Rival

    <h4>Chapter 724 Invisible Rival</h4>

    *shback Continued*

    "Keep your distance from me," said Qian Yin.

    Tang Hebe''s outstretched hand was left hanging in the air. She felt so wronged at that moment.

    "Auntie, I don''t know what my family did to make you hate them so much," started Tang Hebe. "But how is it any of my fault? You are known to be a kind woman. You''re always reasonable and sensible. Why is it that you be like this with me?"

    "If I were being really unreasonable, I''d have long gotten rid of you," said Qian Yin. "Consider it my benevolence that you''re even able to stay in my son''s life. Do you really think I have no way of getting rid of you just because my son loves you? Don''t be mistaken. I''m only not doing it for my son''s sake." She pushed her hair back and sighed, "Also, stop looking like a bullied daughter-inw. Yes, I''m an evil mother-inw but I haven''t bullied you yet."

    Tang Hebe sniffled as she looked up at Qian Yin and said, "Auntie, your eptance means a lot to me."

    "You think you can get eptance by asking for it?" retorted Qian Yin. "People have to work for it. Nothing is free in this world."

    Tang Hebe closed her eyes and said, "I know you have some misunderstandings about me. I understand that. I know I have shorings. But I can assure you that I love Shui Xian more than my own life." She took a pause and faced Qian Yin, "Whether you believe it or not, it was only a joke when I said to Xian that we can run away together. But I forgot that he always takes things seriously. That''s my mistake. I''m sorry for that. However, loving Xian isn''t a mistake. And I''ll prove you wrong by staying with Xian through every thick and thin."

    Qian Yin sneered, "I don''t believe that. But I''ll give you the chance. Let''s see if you really stay true to your words."

    Qian Yin knew every well that she was prejudiced when it came to Tang Hebe. She knew she was being kind of unfair to Tang Hebe but she couldn''t help it either. Whenever she looked at Tang Hebe''s face, she was reminded of everything that turned her into such a bitter face. If only Tang Hebe didn''t have such an uncanny resemnce to that person.

    The maybe... Just maybe her prejudice wouldn''t have been so great.

    But whether it was her prejudice or not, she didn''t like Tang Hebe for her son. She knew how much of a fool her son was in love. It was very easy for her son to be manipted in the name of love. In a way, he was just like her. He was oversensitive and a very emotional person. As a mother, she didn''t want her son to go through the pain she had been through.

    And it didn''t mean she didn''t trust Tang Hebe''s love for Shui Xian. If she had a doubt about Tang Hebe''s feelings, she''d have really shown what an evil mother-inw looks like. But since she didn''t, it meant she at least had faith in Tang Hebe''s love for Shui Xian. However, she also knew love wasn''t enough to make it work.

    Tang Hebe was a soft persimmon born in a family of vultures. It was too easy for those vultures to take advantage of her. And when that happened, no matter how much Tang Hebe loved Shui Xian, it won''t be enough to protect their rtionship.

    *End of shback*

    But the reality was that Qian Yin was right back then. Tang Hebe couldn''t stick with Shui Xian as she had imed to do so. Whether she loved Shui Xian as much as she said she did could be debated but it was true that she wasn''t able to walk on the journey of life hand in hand with Shui Xian. She was really the one to leave him first.

    Tang Hebe had watched Qian Yin leave that day, not knowing that that was thest time she''ll ever be meeting Qian Yin. And the next time she saw this woman was at her funeral. For years, Tang Hebe couldn''t forget the fact that before Qian Yin''s death, herst meeting with her was an unpleasant one.

    And it was also true that even till her death, Qian Yin wasn''t willing to ept Tang Hebe as her daughter-inw.

    Since Qian Yin was Shui Xian''s mother, Tang Hebe couldn''t hate her for anything. So, she shifted all her hatred toward Raelle whom she never even met. She only saw that one photo of the young girl who was already a beauty. Butter on, she went to every length to keep track of Raelle''s achievements.

    She perhaps didn''t even know why she did that. Why did she get so obsessed with knowing about Raelle but she did? It was like Qian Yin''s uneptance left a shadow on Tang Hebe''s mind. And that shadow took the form of Raelle to oppress her. Raelle''s presence was a reminder to Tang Hebe that she wasn''t the one whom Qian Yin liked. And Raelle''s brilliance was the oppression that kept reminding Tang Hebe how much of a gap they had between each other.

    It was like Tang Hebe made Raelle her biggest rival even though they had never met each other. But even without meeting each other Raelle became her nightmare.

    Even after getting married to Shui Xian, she couldn''t get rid of that nightmare. No matter how hard she tried to remind herself that Shui Xian was hers now. She couldn''t get rid of Raelle''s invisible presence that made her insecure.

    Of course, Raelle waspletely oblivious to theseplicated matters. She had never even met Shui Xian before the night of that party where she decided to marry him. And even if she knew about it, she won''t be able to understand Tang Hebe''s thoughts. After all, Raelle''s thoughts weren''t all thatplicated and instead of trying to overtake anyone else, she always worked on improving herself more.

    It was already hard enough for her to find a bnce to live like a normal person. Why would she waste her time trying to be better than others?

 Chapter 725 My Son?

    <h4>Chapter 725 My Son?</h4>

    Tang Hebe woke up from that memory when she felt something wet slipping down her cheek. She touched her face and wiped the tear that slipped down.

    "Why did the doctor call you..." ''Mr. Shui?'' wanted to ask Tang Hebe but she stopped herself from doing so. It was like she had built a bubble around herself. She felt like if she asked that question, that bubble will burst and she''ll have to wake up to reality. A reality that had always been her worst nightmare.

    She always feared that one day Shui Xian will be Raelle''s. He''ll realize that Tang Hebe wasn''t good enough for him. Andpared to Raelle, she was nothing at all.

    And even the reality was right before her, she wanted to keep lying to herself for a little longer. Just a little bit longer.

    "Young Master, don''t run!"

    Everyone in the room looked towards the door which was suddenly pushed open. A little kid ran inside and stared at Tang Hebe for a while in silence. His small face pouted and he disyed his grievance.

    Tang Hebe also looked at the little kid and couldn''t look away.

    The little boy blinked his big eyes at Tang Hebe before he ran to the side of her bed and tried to get on. But his small body couldn''t do so. He looked back at the middle-ageddy who was following him in silence. The nanny understood him and helped him get on the bed. Once he did, he threw himself into Tang Hebe''s arms.

    Tang Hebe wanted to push the child that came out of nowhere but she couldn''t do so. The little boy''s short arms were trying to hug her tightly while he shed some tears. Seeing his tears, Tang Hebe felt her heart clenching in pain. It was strange to feel this way towards a stranger. But for some reason, she was certain this baby boy wasn''t a stranger to her.

    Then who was he to make her feel this heartache for him?

    "Do you think it''ll work?" asked Hyson to Cloe who hade with the little boy and his nanny.

    "She hasn''t pushed him away," pointed out Cloe. "It''s already working." She suddenly looked at Raelle whose eyes were glued on that little boy and she said, "Shouldn''t you send Chief back to her room now?"

    "Why?" asked Hyson.

    "She just lost her child," reminded Cloe.

    Hyson looked towards Raelle and waved his hand, "You are really overthinking now. She is looking at the boy, not because she is feeling some maternal instincts. It''s because the boy doesn''t look like Tang Hebe at all."

    "He must look like his father," stated Cloe.

    "Well, we wouldn''t know that," said Hyson. "Because we don''t even know who his father is."

    As Hyson had said, indeed Raelle was looking at that little boy because he didn''t look like Tang Hebe. But also because he was too silent for a five-year-old. For some reason, he reminded her of herself. That young version of herself would also hide in the arms of Yanyan. Although she didn''t do it very often, she still remembered howfortable that ce was.

    Whether it was Opa or Yanyan, whenever they took her in their arms even against her will, she''d always find that cefortable and warm. Moreover, she felt protected in their arms. As if she had someone to depend on.

    The little boy refused to let go of Tang Hebe who was feeling at a loss right now. She couldn''t understand what she was supposed to do right now.

    She pulled him away a little and cupped his face. Staring at his cute face, she felt like her heart was melting but it was also aching seeing how his small face was stained with tears. She wiped his tears with her thumb pads and asked, "Little one, who are you?"

    The little boy''s big eyes became even bigger when he heard that question. His small face scrunched up and tears again pooled in his eyes. He couldn''t believe what he just heard and felt like the whole world had abandoned him.

    He opened his mouth and asked in a small voice, "Mom, you don''t want Justin anymore?"

    Tang Hebe was startled. Not just by that question but also because of the way he addressed her.

    "Miss, Young master had been missing you so much," spoke the nanny from the side seeing how sad her young master looked right now. She knew how sensitive he was and he usually won''t even speak out if he got hurt. But today, he was willing to ask aplete question so coherently. It showed just how much Tang Hebe''s words affected him.

    At the end of the day, he was a little kid whose whole world consisted of Tang Hebe. How could he not be sad when she didn''t recognize him at all?

    Tang Hebe was still in a daze as she asked, "You''re my son?"

    Little Justin nodded his head in reply. He didn''t speak again but the way he nodded showed how eager he was to remind her that he was her son. His small hand touched her face as he said, "Mom, did you forget Justin?"

    Tang Hebe subconsciously held his small hand and brought it to her lips. She ced a gentle kiss on his palm as she shook her head. She didn''t know if she shook her head to indicate that she hadn''t forgotten him or because she was in trying to deny everything to herself in disbelief.

    She looked up and found Raelle sitting on the couch with her face supported by the heel of her hand. She opened her mouth and asked, "This is my son?"

    Although Raelle didn''t know why she wanted her confirmation, she still nodded in response.

    For some reason, Tang Hebe believed it, even more, when Raelle nodded. Her eyes sparkled as she looked at Justin in her arms. She grinned as she questioned, "So we finally looked for a surrogate."

 Chapter 726 Besotted

    <h4>Chapter 726 Besotted</h4>

    At once Cloe and Hyson''s eyes widened in shock and in sync, both of them turned their heads towards Raelle. But unfortunately, Raelle''s face was as nk as ever. She just sat there with her eyes trained on the interaction between Tang Hebe and the little boy.

    *Bzzz*

    Raelle looked at her ringing phone and stood up.

    "Let''s meet again, Miss Tang," said Raelle. "I have to leave now. My husband is looking for me." She gave her a nod and added, "I wish you a speedy recovery."

    Tang Hebe wanted to say something to Raelle but thetter was already gone like she was riding the wind. As if she couldn''t wait to see her husband. Tang Hebe''s heart was unsettled from the time she met Raelle but once she hugged the little boy in her arms, she seemed to forget everything else.

    Even if she didn''t recognize him, a part of her was still unwilling to part from him.

    On the other hand, Raelle went back to her ward and found Shui Xian pacing around. Once he looked at her, he had a fierce look in his eyes. "Where did you go?"

    "To see Miss Tang," she replied.

    Shui Xian groaned, "Why? Is this even time for you to worry about others? Why don''t you first focus on recovering your own health?"

    "You look really angry, Hubby," Raelle pointed out.

    "Shouldn''t I be?" retorted Shui Xian. "You''re worrying me so much. I got so scared when I came back and found the room empty."

    "Okay, I should have told you before going out," Raelle epted that it was her fault for leaving just like that. But then again, she didn''t think he''ll be so angry about this.

    Shui Xian called for the nurse who put Raelle back on the IV. He made her lie down on the bed and covered her with a nket. Seeing him fretting over her, Raelle was actually very calm. How could she not be? Only the person doing everything changed from Yanyan to Shui Xian, apart from that everything was the same.

    Even her always gentle Yanyan would get mad at her if she moved around when she was sick. And now Shui Xian was following Yanyan''s footsteps.

    If one says that Raelle had been through a lot worse things in life, it was true. From the moment she was born, life had been a little unfair to her. But lifepensated her in the form of all those people who cherished her with all their beings.

    Holding her cold hands in his own, Shui Xian looked distressed. "Baby, stop jumping around. You just left the bed for such a short time but see how your hands and feet are so cold now. Do you want to catch a cold?"

    "It''s so hot outside," said Raelle. "How can I get cold?"

    "You''ll be surprised," he said while rubbing her hands with his own.

    "Mr. Husband..."

    "Hm?"

    "Miss Tang couldn''t bear a child," stated Raelle. "Am I right?"

    Shui Xian paused and looked up into her eyes. "Where did you hear that?"

    "Does it matter?" asked Raelle. "You insisted the child wasn''t yours. There has to be a reason for that, no?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "It''s not like I wanted to hide it from you. It''s just that..."

    "You don''t like talking about people''s shorings," Raellepleted his sentence for him.

    Shui Xian pursed his lips, "To be very honest, I never thought it was a shoring." He pinched her hand as he went on, "But you''re right. She couldn''t bear a child. And that''s why I insisted that the child she brought wasn''t mine. In fact, that child definitely isn''t hers either. But if she is willing to call him her son, then who am I to question it? She always wanted to be a mother so I won''t be surprised if she really adopted the boy."

    He took a pause before continuing, "In fact, we knew she couldn''t bear a child even before we got married." Now that fact really got Raelle''s attention. Even knowing that, he chose to marry her? That must be true love. "Don''t look at me like that," he said and even put a hand over her eyes to stop her from looking at him. "I know I was besotted. There was no cure for it either. I never thought having a child or not mattered all that much since I loved her and wanted to marry her to spend the rest of my life with her. It didn''t mean I never thought of having our own child but after knowing that she couldn''t... Well, I thought the child wasn''t all that important."

    "You could have looked for a surrogate," she mentioned while pulling his hand off of her eyes.

    Shui Xian stared into her eyes and said, "We had that discussion once but she was the one who didn''t like the idea. So, we never brought it up again."

    While Shui Xian had always been telling everyone that a child wasn''t in his life n, he wasn''t just lying to everyone around him but to himself as well. He really wanted to be a father. But once he learned that Tang Hebe couldn''t be a mother, he dropped the idea. He thought as long as he said he didn''t want a child, everything will be okay.

    "After seeing her son, Miss Tang thinks you guys finally decided to find a surrogate," told Raelle to him.

    Shui Xian sneered, "Oh, she really lost her mind. She was the one who said she didn''t want to look for a surrogate." Shui Xian was really feeling like everything was a joke right now. Did he look like he was interested in going through old memories with his ex-wife? Because he wasn''t!

    Whether good or bad, he didn''t feel like recalling any memory. Especially at a time like this when he actually lost his child. He and his wife had yet to grieve their child and yet here they were talking about his ex-wife.

 Chapter 727 Dissatisfied

    <h4>Chapter 727 Dissatisfied</h4>

    "Then why are you avoiding her?" asked Raelle. It''s not like she hadn''t noticed it. Before whenever he talked about Tang Hebe, he was calm. But since yesterday, he had been avoiding her name and definitely didn''t want to go to see her either.

    "Do you think I recalled our memories once I looked at her after all these years?" asked Shui Xian in return. "Then you''re wrong. Even I thought I might remember our time together once I met her again but it didn''t happen. All that I recalled was what a jerk I was to my own mother because of her." He held Raelle''s hands tightly as he went on, "I might have never been a good son to my mom. But I became a real jerk a year before she died. All because I insisted on going against her wishes."

    "And why did mom not like Tang Hebe?" she asked.

    Shui Xian was momentarily stunned at how naturally she called his mother her own. He rubbed the hand of her hand as he told her, "I don''t know. I never got the answer to that question. She just insisted that anyone could be my life partner but not a Tang. I never understood what animosity she had with the Tang family." He took a pause and didn''t hide anything from her, "Even after I gained power, all I learned was that the Tang family and Qian family had irreconcble differences. Both families were like water and oil, they could never mix together. As for the reason, no one is willing to open their mouths."

    "Is it weird that I''m interested in what exactly went wrong between the two families?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian gave her a small smile and shook his head, "It''s not weird. Even I was very interested in it once. But I found nothing, so I had to reluctantly give up. But you can give it a try, anything that isn''t possible for me definitely shouldn''t faze my wife."

    "Actually, I don''t have to do much," said Raelle. She opened her contact list and showed him a name, "I''ll just use my cheat."

    Shui Xian chuckled at how she called Mu Chenyan, her cheat! But he couldn''t even argue since Mu Chenyan was really like a cheat. And it really won''t surprise him if Mu Chenyan figured out the mystery behind the rivalry between Tang and Qian families.

    He held her hand, "Do you have to call her now? Can''t you wait for when you get recovered?"

    "No," she answered. "I''m interested now. What if I am no longer interested by the time I get discharged?"

    "Oh, my wife''s interest is that short-lived?"

    "Don''t worry, my interest in you is permanent," she said.

    Shui Xianughed at that and kissed her forehead, "Fine. Do whatever you want." It''s not like he could stop her. After all, since she was told to justy on her bed and rest, she definitely wanted to find something to keep herself busy. "Amiah wants to meet you," he told her. "Should I bring her in?"

    "Have you been keeping her waiting outside all this while?" questioned Raelle.

    Shui Xian shook his head, "No, she... She can''t bring herself to face you."

    "Go and bring her inside," said Raelle. "I don''t eat people. I only like eating you."

    Shui Xian choked and gave her a re, "You... Sigh. Forget it. I''ll bring her inside."

    Raelle watched him leave as she muttered, "Did I say something wrong?" She didn''t think so. Shaking off these thoughts, she dialed Mu Chenyan''s number.

    "Oh, my baby Elle!" came Mu Chenyan''s gushing voice.

    "Aren''t you being very irresponsible, Yanyan?" replied Raelle catching Mu Chenyan off guard. "Your baby Elle is in the hospital, where are you? Is this even time for you to wander around? Or is it that you really are treating me like the married daughter is like split water? Is that so?" Raelle didn''t even give Mu Chenyan to say a word as she went on, "Or maybe since you got your brother and a nephew and another niece, you think your baby Elle is of no use now?"

    Although Mu Chenyan was being lectured, she couldn''t help smiling right now. And eventually, she burst outughing.

    "You? You''reughing at this time? What''s so funny?"

    "Aiyo, Yanyan''s precious little Missy, are youining right now?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "Hm? What? When did Iin?"

    "Just now," said Mu Chenyan. "This is the very first time in my life when I am hearing youin to me like this. And can I be honest, I feel like I can die in peace now. My baby finally knows how to show her dissatisfaction. I can''t be more proud." She wiped the tears that spilled out of her eyes involuntarily. "Oh, why my tears areing out?" She mumbled to herself. She definitely looked like a fool for having a big grin on her face and tears falling from her eyes. But she couldn''t help it.

    "Shouldn''t I be dissatisfied?" questioned Raelle. "Since I have been in the hospital, you didn''t even cook a single meal for me. Before my marriage, if I even had a minor fever, you''d stick to my bedside and make me all sorts of meals. And don''t think just because I am not a fan of fancy food that I can''t recognize the taste of your food. Because I can tell the difference!"

    "Oh my! That''s my mistake. That''s definitely my mistake. I should atone for this sin. How could I forget that my Elle is used to eating the food I make when she is sick. I really deserve to be punished."

    "Then youe to me, I''ll definitely punish you!"

    Mu Chenyan wiped her tears and nodded, "Yes. I''ll make something for lunch for you and then I''ll be right there with you. You can punish me however you want." She took a pause and added, "Elle..."

    "Yes?"

    "Nothing. I''ll see you soon."

 Chapter 728 Sandal Beating

    <h4>Chapter 728 Sandal Beating</h4>

    Once Mu Chenyan''s call with Raelle ended, she was grinning from ear to ear. Whistling around and walking with a skip, she looked like she was floating in the sky. And well, she was truly feeling like she was in the clouds because it felt so surreal. Her Elle called her to say she missed her!

    Well, okay, that wasn''t how she said it but the meaning was the same!

    No matter in which way it was said, it was the truth that couldn''t be denied. Ah! She felt like someone filled her heart with cotton candy. But she didn''t even like cotton candy all her life. Howe she was feeling so sweet right now?

    Finding Yue Yue walking by, she actually picked her up and made a wless spin. Yue Yue was so scared that she kept hitting Mu Chenyan''s arms. She couldn''t even scream! But it had no effect on Mu Chenyan who continued to spin her around. And when she finally put her back on the ground, Yue Yue had to take a moment to catch her breath.

    She shot Mu Chenyan a fierce re. At least, she believed it was a fierce look! But in Mu Chenyan''s opinion, it looked more like she ruffled the fur of a kitty. How cute!

    If Yue Yue knew what she was thinking, she''d have taken off her sandal to beat Mu Chenyan up.

    But unfortunatelyˇ­ Ahem! Ahemˇ­ I mean, fortunately, Yue Yue didn''t know Mu Chenyan''s thoughts, and that in turn saved Mu Chenyan from a ''sandal beating.''

    ''Have you lost your brain?'' Yue Yue looked at Mu Chenyan with an usatory gaze. ''Or do you need my help looking for that brain in the trash bin?''

    Mu Chenyan didn''t even mind her words as she was still grinning proving even further to Yue Yue that Mu Chenyan really have lost her mind. Ah! What a shame!

    Mu Chenyan pinched Yue Yue''s cheek leaving thetter gaping in disbelief as she said, "Yue, my dear little sister, why are you so cute?"

    ''I''m not little!'' Yue Yue wanted to scream that in Mu Chenyan''s ears but sadly, it wasn''t possible. And no matter how furiously she used her hand signs to get her emotions across, Mu Chenyan would always choose to ignore that one point that Yue Yue was older than her.

    As long as Mu Chenyan said she was little, she was little!

    We don''t take arguments in this house!

    "Chenchen, did you cry?"

    Mu Chenyan looked over at her brother and shook her head, "Nope." She touched her wet eyshes as she went on, "Those were just happy tears."

    "Now, you''ve even learned to shed happy tears,"mented Xiang Hulin. "What a surprise."

    "Ge, I have always been full of surprises," said Mu Chenyan proudly.

    Xiang Hulin nodded his head, "Indeed, how can I forget that."

    Mu Chenyan started whistling again as she left both of them in the hallway. Xiang Hulin looked at Yue Yue as he said, "You must be having it tough around her."

    Yue Yue gave him a look that said, ''You think?'' Sighing, she went back to her work. Her heart was still beating so fast from the scare Mu Chenyan gave her. She thought she''d fall. Luckily, Mu Chenyan didn''t drop her or her old bones must have had gotten a fracture or something.

    Xiang Hulin came to sit with his father and asked, "Father?"

    "Hm?"

    "When did Chenchen be a crybaby?" he asked.

    Grandfather Xiang looked up at his son before saying, "Everyone has a weakness. She just found hers." Xiang Hulin was frowning when Grandfather Xiang called out, "Chenyan!"

    "Yes?" Mu Chenyan who was passing by with a basket full of fresh vegetables stopped at looked at Grandfather Xiang. "What is it, Elder Xiang?"

    "What did Raelle say to make you look like this?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    Mu Chenyan smiled so brightly that her teeth were on full disy, "She said she misses me."

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head, "Just that and you lost your mind?"

    Mu Chenyan gave him a stinky eye, "You won''t understand! Forget it. I won''t waste time with you. My Elle is waiting for me to cook her something delicious." She took a pause and added, "Oh, did I mention, that she actually knows the taste of my food. She said my food doesn''t taste like others. Can you believe it?"

    With augh, she rushed back to the kitchen.

    Grandfather Xiang chuckled softly when she left, "Tsk. At this age, she is still so silly!" But the small smile ying on his lips showed that he actually understood Mu Chenyan''s feelings. Those words might seem ordinary to most people. But the same wordsing from Raelle were a big deal to Mu Chenyan or even Grandfather Xiang.

    "Yesterday, she looked like she was stuck in a thunderstorm,"mented Xiang Hulin. "And today, her world is filled with bright sunshine and rainbows?"

    Grandfather Xiang sighed, "I told you, she has her weakness now. A purpose of her existence that she never had before. And yesterday, the thunderstorms that darkened her world were because she wanted to kill everyone and everything that dared to hurt her precious. And today, her precious hasplimented her and it''s all bright in her world again."

    "I didn''t think, Raelle would have such an impact on Chenchen," said Xiang Hulin.

    "She isn''t alone," replied Grandfather. "My granddaughter might not be ordinary. But she always leaves her mark on people. She is just that special."

    Xiang Hulin actually found it really surprising to see how his father''s voice was brimming with pride as he spoke about Raelle. It seemed his daughter really changed something in both Mu Chenyan and his own father. And it was no easy feat.

    But he had to agree with his father''s words. His youngest daughter really knew how to leave her mark on people''s minds. After all, even he would never be able to forget the very first meeting he had with his own daughter.

 Chapter 729 I Donâ€™t Like You

    <h4>Chapter 729 I Don''t Like You</h4>

    "Stop dawdling ande inside," Shui Xian literally had to drag his sister inside Raelle''s ward. It couldn''t be helped. His sister who was usually like a tyrant suddenly was acting like a mouse. She seemed scared to face Raelle.

    In fact, it was her guilt that made her feel ashamed to face Raelle again.

    Although Amiah came inside the ward, she stood near the door with her head down looking like a child who had done something wrong and was now waiting for her punishment. Shui Xian went up to Raelle''s bed when he noticed how Raelle hid her phone as soon as she saw him enter.

    "Phone?" he extended his hand towards her.

    Raelle looked at his hand and then at him and smiled.

    "I still don''t like your smile," was his response.

    Raelle took out her phone from under her and gave it to him. He unlocked the screen and seeing the mailing interface opened on the phone, he narrowed his eyes at Raelle, "Didn''t I tell you this is not allowed these days?"

    "I was just checking," she replied. She finally had the time and her phone in her hand, yet she got caught. Wow! This was a first where Raelle Xiang had to do something sneakily. She was never a sneaky person.

    "Checking is also not allowed," said Shui Xian sternly and Raelle nodded her head in reply.

    Amiah looked at their interactions and found them rather adorable. Actually, Amiah wasn''t sure about this arranged marriage with her brother. She didn''t think it was any good. And from the time she learned that Raelle was the woman Shui Xian married, she was even more certain that this marriage was no good.

    After all, when she researched Raelle Xiang, all she heard was how much of a difficult person she was. People had all kinds of opinions about her personality. If there was something that nobody ever spoke negatively about, that was her character and her work.

    Considering how their first meeting wasn''t very pleasant either, Amiah didn''t think there was any love between Shui Xian and Raelle. It was an arranged marriage anyway. Besides, she knew how much Shui Xian loved Tang Hebe. But she seemed to always overlook the fact that Tang Hebe ended up hurting Shui Xian even worse.

    And let''s not forget, that the rtionship between Tang Hebe and Shui Xian ended over 5 years ago. So, if Shui Xian was willing to move on, it meant he was ready to open his heart to someone new and love again.

    And from the looks of it, her brother really opened his heart and fell in love with Raelle. She couldn''t say anything about Raelle since her face was like a nk sheet of paper, she couldn''t find anything there. But her own brother was like an open book around Raelle, even just his eyes were filled with love and doting when he looked at Raelle.

    "Hi, Director Jade!" Raelle waved at Amiah seeing how thetter was standing silently.

    "Hi, Sister-inw," replied Amiah.

    "You can just call me Raelle," said Raelle and Amiah nodded in response.

    "How are you now?"

    "I don''t know," answered Raelle. "Because apparently, people around me know my condition better than I. So, even if I say, I''m good to get discharged, they don''t think the patient''s opinion matters. So, yeah! I really don''t know how I am. Why don''t you ask your brother?"

    Shui Xian pinched her nose, "You''re right. Even if you say, you''re good to go. We don''t believe you. So, be good and recuperate properly."

    "Yes, Sir!" responded Raelle.

    "Darling, are you being sarcastic with me right now?"

    "How dare I?"

    Shui Xian chuckled, "You''re learning bad things."

    "It''s all because of my good teacher," she answered.

    Shui Xian pointed at himself, "Are you saying, it''s my influence?"

    "I sleep in your arms at night, it''s definitely you who is rubbing off on me."

    Shui Xian opened his mouth in disbelief, "Wow! My wife, you reallyˇ­ You wait and see."

    Raelle looked at him and said, "I''ve seen everything. Very clearly."

    Shui Xian put his hand on her mouth and he whispered, "Darling, you really need to stop."

    Amiah looked at their interaction intently and her lips curled up. She didn''t think their rtionship was actually this interesting and fun. But was it okay for them to openly flirt in front of her? She was very single you know. So, even if they thought it was okay, she didn''t think it was okay to feed her dog food right now.

    Shui Xian kissed Raelle''s head and said, "Behave! I''ll be right back." He left the room after that because he had a phone call and didn''t want to disturb them.

    In the silence of the room, Amiah opened her mouth several times before finally speaking up, "I''m sorry for your loss!"

    Raelle didn''t know how to react to that. She honestly didn''t know. Was she supposed to say it was okay? Because she certainly didn''t feel that way. How could anyone be okay with the loss she just had? She had never taken any loss seriously in life. But this time, the loss was of her own child.

    No matter how emotionless she was said to be, she couldn''t act as if nothing happened.

    "Hmm..." So, in the end, Raelle could only hum in response to that. "Thanks foring!" said Raelle.

    "If I didn''te, how would I have known that I destroyed my brother''s life?" Amiah spoke self-deprecatingly.

    "You didn''t," replied Raelle. "You''re a victim in that incident yourself. You should never me yourself for anything."

    "You can hate me if you want," said Amiah. "For what happened with you, I think I do deserve to take some me."

    "Well, I don''t hate you," was Raelle''s reply. "But I don''t like you either." Raelle didn''t mind saying it out straightforwardly. Why should she hide the fact that she didn''t like Amiah? She was never the kind of person to hide such things.

 Chapter 730 Youâ€™re No Fun

    <h4>Chapter 730 You''re No Fun</h4>

    Amiah didn''t think Raelle would be so blunt with her words so say it right to her face that she didn''t like her. Although she knew many people didn''t like her, she didn''t think someone would say it right to her face.

    "Don''t look at me like that," said Raelle. "You don''t like me either."

    Amiah was taken aback by that statement.

    "We are on the same page," was Raelle''sment. "We both don''t hate each other but we don''t like each other as well." She fixed the pillow behind her as she leaned back saying, "But it doesn''t matter to me. Whether you like me or not, I don''t care all that much."

    "You''re very vocal about your likes and dislikes," said Amiah.

    "If I don''t like you, you should know that. Why should I keep it just to myself?" said Raelle. "I can even tell you why I don''t like you."

    "There is no need," responded Amiah. "I believe it''s because of the incident with Hyson."

    Raelle shook her finger as she said, "Nope. If you had a hand in that incident, you wouldn''t be standing in front of me right now. The reason why I don''t like you is because of how you spoke to my B¨¤. I don''t like people disrespecting my family." And from the moment Amiah chose to use such a rude attitude with B¨¤, she was added to Raelle''s dislike list.

    Amiah really didn''t expect that''d be the reason.

    "So, if you really feel like apologizing, you should apologize to him. It''s Ba who deserves that apology from you," said Raelle. "But clearly, you don''t want to believe that."

    Before Amiah couldment about that, Hyson walked inside the ward with Cloe and went straight to sit beside Raelle. "It isn''t going well," he told Raelle sadly. "We have to find another trigger."

    Raelle looked up at Cloe who informed her, "Although Miss Tang seems to have found her bond with her son, she still has no memories. But clearly, even with a memory loss, she greatly loves her son." Then she looked at Hyson, "And the doctor insisted that we shouldn''t try to trigger her memory. Since she is already a keen person, she''ll eventually figure out everything and sort out her memory."

    "I can see that," responded Hyson. "Ellie, do you know, she wanted to see Xian Ge just now. She even asked little Justin about his father. But the kid isn''t much of a talker so he didn''t really give her any response. He only said, ''Mom said she''ll take me to dad.''" His eyes narrowed as he asked, "What do you think that means?"

    "It means she had a reason why she came back to this country after all these years with a son in her arms," said Raelle. "Maybe she is looking for the child''s father."

    "But who is his father?" asked Hyson.

    "Do I look like a irvoyant?" asked Raelle in return.

    Hyson tsked at her, "You''re no fun." He turned his head and noticed Amiah''s presence, so his eyes lit up, "Director Jade, since you''ve directed so many movies and must have read even more scripts, where do you think this story is headed?"

    "It''s not a story, its real life," reminded Raelle.

    Hyson gave her a look of dissatisfaction, "Ellie, my dear Elle, how do you know its real life? There is always a possibility that we are just living in a world of books created by a psycho and mental author."

    Raelle touched Hyson''s head as she said, "How about you stop reading so many web novels?" Hyson gave her another look that again said, ''You''re no fun.'' And he meant it! She was really no fun.

    "Hebe Jie still can''t remember anything?" asked Amiah from the side.

    "Nope," said Hyson. "Her memories are still nk."

    Amiah fell into thought before suggesting, "How about I go and see her?"

    "Absolutely not," came Shui Xian''s voice from the door. As soon as he opened the door, he heard Amiah''s suggestion he was firmly against it.

    "Why not?" asked Amiah to her brother.

    "Because you can''t keep a secret," said Shui Xian. "Do you think I don''t know how much anger you have towards Tang Hebe for the divorce? If you went to see her, you''ll definitely say something you shouldn''t. And the doctor asked us to be patient with her. It isn''t time to act recklessly. What if you worsened her condition? I already have enough on my te."

    Hyson also nodded his head in agreement, "I am with Xian Ge. We don''t trust Director Jade in this house."

    Amiah gave Hyson a look who immediately stuck close to Raelle. Amiah had aplicated look in her eyes as she looked at Hyson''s reaction.

    "Did I say something wrong?" asked Hyson in a small voice.

    Shui Xian shook his head, "No. You''re right. We really don''t trust Director Jade in this house."

    Amiah looked at her brother and couldn''t really argue with him. It seemed, she didn''t really leave enough reason for her brother or for anyone to trust her. Besides, her brother wasn''t really wrong. She was eager to go up to Tang Hebe and ask her the questions she had been keeping inside for years.

    Even if she personally had nothing against Tang Hebe, she had to ask her why she hurt her brother so much. The reason why he got even closer to Ruan Meilin was also that they both had a mutual dissatisfaction with Tang Hebe. Although Ruan Meilin always tried to show her perfect side to Amiah, it didn''t help her cause.

    Because no matter what, even Amiah didn''t think Ruan Meilin was a good life partner for her brother. She might have asional arguments with her brother, it didn''t mean she wanted to destroy his life by pushing his towards someone like Ruan Meilin who didn''t even know what her true face looked like after pretending to act like Tang Hebe for so long.

 Chapter 731 Corpse Flower

    <h4>Chapter 731 Corpse Flower</h4>

    Amiah rubbed her nose and changed the topic, "Hyson, about shooting..."

    Before she could continue, Hyson hugged Raelle like a ko as he shook his head like a rattle, "I''m not going. My Ellie is still in the hospital, even if you beat me I still won''t go back to shooting! Not going! Not going. Not going!"

    Amiah was left speechlessly staring at his antics while the rest of the people acted like they weren''t even surprised by Hyson''s reaction. Even Cloe looked unbothered. In Cloe''s opinion, everyone around Raelle was a clingy person except for Raelle herself. Just look at her husband, wasn''t he clingy enough?

    It''d be a real shock to her if Hyson really agreed to leave.

    "Let me finish," said Amiah. "I meant to say that the shooting has been canceled for a week since I''m also here. I''m the director if you remember clearly. How is the shooting gonna continue when I''m not even there?"

    Hyson also realized that point when she mentioned it.

    "Get off of me," Hyson heard Raelle''smand and his arms around her loosened their grasp.

    "Stop acting like a ko," said Shui Xian.

    "Why? Aren''t kos cute? Am I not cute?" responded Hyson.

    "Ko? Call him Rafflesia arnoldii instead," said Raelle. "He resembles that better. Once he attaches himself to someone, doesn''t want to let go.

    Hyson gaped at Raelle, "Hey! How can youpare me to those ugly corpse flowers? That''s a parasite flower! How could you call me a parasite?"

    "Ugly? I don''t think it''s ugly," was Raelle''s reply.

    "Is that the point here?"

    Shui Xian chuckled while Cloe covered her mouth to hide the arc of her lips.

    "Hey, babies!"

    Raelle and Hyson''s back and forth bantering seized the moment the door was pushed open and they heard that all too familiar voice. Mu Chenyan looked at everyone inside the room and asked, "What''s going on?"

    "Yanyan, it''s good that you''re here," Hyson held Mu Chenyan''s arm and dragged her over. "Ellie called me a corpse flower."

    Mu Chenyan looked at Raelle''s nk face and then looked back at Hyson''s aggrieved face. She found herself in a difficult position. Both were her babies, how was she supposed to react? Argh! Why did she always run into such situations? She was okay with anything but everything that involved Raelle and Hyson made her brain malfunction.

    "At least, she called you a flower," responded Mu Chenyan as she caressed Hyson''s face lovingly. Well, that was the best she coulde up with right now.

    "Pfft!" Shui Xian burst outughing and seeing how Mu Chenyan shot him a look, he instantly straightened, "Sorry!"

    Cloe was biting the insides of her cheek to stop herself fromughing out loud. While Amiah was left confusedly staring at everything.

    "Whose side are you on?" asked Hyson.

    Mu Chenyan smiled at him, "I don''t pick sides when ites to you two. In the end, I''ll be the only one losing."

    "Yanyan, you can ignore him," said Raelle.

    Hyson tsked at that, "There are over 7 billion people in this world, why the hell did I choose you as my best friend?"

    "How would I know?" replied Raelle. "You''re the one who insisted on digging your own grave of friendship."

    "Yeah and now I''mying in that grave of friendship with a corpse-like you," Hyson shot back. Then he fist-bumped to say, "Oho! I got my revenge! I called you a corpse."

    "What kind of revenge was that?" asked Mu Chenyan in a soft voice as if talking to herself. Well, she was quite used to these weird situations so she wasn''t even surprised by how easily Hyson''s whole attention was shifted to something else. And she definitely will never understand his kind of revenge. Since her revenge definitely involved breaking a few bones or shedding some blood. Or at the very least, someone has to shed some tears to soothe the fire of revenge burning inside of her.

    "Yanyan, did you bring me lunch?" asked Hyson.

    Mu Chenyan ruffled his soft hair, "Yeah. Your share is added. You can go and get it." She looked at Cloe and added, "In fact, take Cloe with you and eat with her."

    "Okay," Hyson agreed readily.

    "I was gonna leave," Cloe tried to speak up.

    "It''s already lunchtime," said Mu Chenyan. "You shouldn''t leave without food." Noticing Amiah, "Miss Shui, how about you eat with them as well?"

    Amiah was at a loss. She waved her hand, "No, there is no need for that."

    "Well, I insist," said Mu Chenyan. Then she turned to Shui Xian, "And you, my son-inw, go and bring the stuff from the car."

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "Yes, Ma''am!"

    Even though Mu Chenyan could bring the stuff in with the help of people who followed her to the hospital, she still insisted on making Shui Xian do the work. Everyone in the ward knew about this fact except for Amiah. But no one really reacted except for Raelle who held Shui Xian''s hand and looked at Mu Chenyan, "Yanyan..."

    Shui Xian rubbed her head, "Be good. I''ll be right back."

    "Yanyan, I''ll have lunch with these two beautifuldies," said Hyson. "You have lunch with Ellie. I don''t wanna eat with a corpse today." At the end, he even stuck out his tongue at Raelle.

    "Scram!" came Raelle''s reply and Hyson justughed it off as always.

    When everyone left the room one by one, Raelle asked, "Do you love to make things difficult for my husband?"

    "I didn''t make things difficult for him," said Mu Chenyan. "He has been inside the hospital for hours. It''s good for him to go out and get some fresh air. At least, to get the stuff from the car, he''ll be getting some fresh air. I''m only thinking about him. Why would I make things difficult for him?"

    Raelle could only ept her words. Because she knew Mu Chenyan wasn''t lying. If she really wanted to make things difficult for Shui Xian, thetter wouldn''t even be able to stand on his feet.

    "Did you have fun yesterday?" asked Raelle.

 Chapter 732 Get Physical

    <h4>Chapter 732 Get Physical</h4>

    "Fun?" repeated Mu Chenyan. An evil light shed in her eyes when she remembered what she did yesterday. Did she have fun torturing that woman? Not really! Her heart was not satisfied. Regaining her gentle smile, she said, "How is that possible? Yesterday was the ck day of my life. It was a disaster."

    She truly thought there was nothing good about yesterday. First thing in the morning, she learned that her Raelle was in the hospital, and then she learned about her miscarriage. How could any of that be different from a disaster?

    "Oh, so reuniting with your brother is actually a disaster," said Raelle as if she understood something.

    Mu Chenyan paused and looked at Raelle. She tapped Raelle''s nose, "You... You''re learning how to tease your Yanyan now?" She shook her head, "How can reuniting with my Ge be a disaster."

    Even while talking about it, she couldn''t hide her happiness. Especially from Raelle whose attention was fixed on her. She already knew that Mu Chenyan will be over the moon but it seemed she still underestimated Mu Chenyan''s happiness.

    "So, yesterday wasn''t all that bad,"mented Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan had to ept that Raelle was right. In a way, yesterday wasn''t all bad either. because at the end of the day, she managed to get reunited with her brother. How can it be all bad? Mu Chenyan pushed Raelle''s hair from her face saying, "Thank you, my dearest Elle!"

    "What for?" asked Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan stroked her cheek with the back of her hand as she told her, "Do you really think I can''t tell that you yed a part in this reunion? Elder Xiang doesn''t easily take a step back even if he is wrong. He is old and very stubborn. But only you''re capable of making him not only realize his mistake but ept it and fix it as well." She took a pause to add, "So, thank you for giving my brother back to me. I think I missed him more than I care to admit."

    Raelle took her hand in her own as she said, "Or maybe I should be saying sorry to you." Mu Chenyan frowned at her words. "Sorry for taking so long to realize what your brother meant to you."

    Mu Chenyan smiled at her, "Aiyo, how can my Elle apologize to me? You did nothing wrong. Even if you''re ever wrong, you should know your Yanyan will stand beside you. Well, because I''m not a saint. I don''t stand beside justice. I''m a willful and unreasonable person. And very biased towards my precious Elle."

    "I know," replied Raelle. This was something Raelle truly believed in. The world could stand against Raelle Xiang but Mu Chenyan could never. Even if there was someone who should really be dissatisfied with Raelle, it was Mu Chenyan. After all, Raelle had gotten on Mu Chenyan''s nerve all her life.

    Raelle made Mu Chenyan run for her life. For years, Mu Chenyan had been running just so she could keep up with Raelle but she neverined about Raelle''s difficult self. Raelle was the reason Mu Chenyan lost her brother, her mother-like aunt, and even her most precious freedom. But here she was, still saying that Raelle had nothing to be sorry for.

    This was truly how Mu Chenyan felt. She never thought Raelle took anything from her. If anything, Raelle''s existence made Mu Chenyan''s life more exciting. After all, even after doing all sorts of things, she didn''t find the excitement that came from Raelle. She truly felt like it was an achievement whenever she was able to do something for Raelle.

    "How long are you nning on keeping Ruan Meilin for entertainment?" asked Raelle ruining Mu Chenyan''s mood instantly by bringing up that name. Always trust Raelle to freaking ruin a moment!

    "What are you talking about, Elle?" asked Mu Chenyan feigning ignorance. "Ruan Meilin? Why would I keep her for entertainment?"

    "Illegal detention is against thew," reminded Raelle. "So make sure you let her go within three days."

    Mu Chenyan''s eyes narrowed but she still faked her expression, "Illegal detention? I''m Mu Chenyan. I''m a veryw-abiding citizen. How can I do something that atrocious? Ruan Meilin is at her home. I can prove it. But can anyone prove that she is in my hands? I don''t think so."

    "Law-abiding citizen? And you?" Mu Chenyan nodded her head in response. "Just because you know how to y withw, doesn''t make you a veryw-abiding citizen."

    Mu Chenyan pinched her nose saying, "My little Missy, sometimes you should turn a blind eye to some things. You focus on recovering. Don''t think about unimportant people."

    "Don''t kill her," said Raelle. "I don''t want you to stain your hands with her blood."

    Mu Chenyan smiled at her, "Kill her? She doesn''t have that honor." She patted Raelle''s head, "I know what I''m doing. And you should let me do it." She took a pause and added, "By the way, what''s up with that Tang Hebe. I heard she lost her memory."

    Raelle nodded her head, "Yes, her memory has gone back five or so years. She thinks Xian is still her husband."

    "What?!" Mu Chenyan gave off a murderous aura. "Who dares eye my Elle''s husband? Does that puny little girl think she can take what is my Elle''s? Am I a joke to her?" She cracked her knuckles as she added, "Maybe I should knock some sense into her head."

    Raelle held her back, "What do you think you''re doing?"

    Mu Chenyan said matter-of-factly, "Of course, I''m gonna give her a good beating. Her memory wille running back instantly. Trust me! I know how to make people open the doors of their memories."

    "Yeah, I have no doubt about that," responded Raelle calmly looking at Mu Chenyan who was ready to fly into rage mode. "But let''s not get physical for now."

    "Not for now? Then when are we gonna get physical? When she takes off with your husband?!"

 Chapter 733 Not That Reasonable

    <h4>Chapter 733 Not That Reasonable</h4>

    Raelle''s hand which was wrapped around Mu Chenyan''s wrist to hold her back tightened. Her eyes bore into Mu Chenyan''s and yet, Mu Chenyan felt like Raelle wasn''t really looking at her. For the first time in forever, Mu Chenyan felt anger radiating off of Raelle which caught her off guard.

    "No one can take my husband," said Raelle firmly.

    Mu Chenyan''s lips curled up when she heard that. Oh, that''s where the anger wasing from. She cupped Raelle''s face and chuckled, "Oh my! Elle has learned to be possessive. What a shocker! I think I can die in peace now."

    Raelle flicked Mu Chenyan''s forehead making her gape at Raelle in disbelief, "Don''t even think about dying."

    Mu Chenyanughed out, "I was just saying that. How can die so soon? I still have to hold a little baby of my Elle in my arms..." Her words trailed off as she bit her tongue. She didn''t think her tongue would slip like this.

    "You know I don''t mind you talking about my child," said Raelle. "But I do mind you saying anyone can take my husband from me."

    Mu Chenyan wasughing when Shui Xian pushed open the door and came in. Mu Chenyan stoppedughing and looked at Shui Xian pointedly, "Why are you sozy?" She took something from his hand and ced it on the table. Then she stared at Shui Xian again and said, "You better control that ex-wife of yours. If she hurt my Elle, I''ll being for your neck!"

    Shui Xian instinctively took a step back, "Yanyan, what did I do wrong?"

    "Do you think I''ll look for a reason whether you''re wrong or not?" retorted Mu Chenyan. "I''m not that reasonable!" was her argument which left Shui Xian stumped.

    "I heard you went to the temple with Yue," said Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan paused in her actions and scratched her nose awkwardly, "I did."

    "That is so not like you,"mented Raelle. And she wasn''t lying. In all these years, she had never seen Mu Chenyan believing in these things.

    Mu Chenyan put her hand into her pocket and took out a red thread, she walked to Raelle and said, "Give me your wrist." Raelle didn''t ask anything but extended her hand toward her. With a serious look, Mu Chenyan tied the red thread around her wrist telling her, "The abbot said this is a protection thread. It''ll keep you safe from all evil."

    "This thread has the power to protect me?" asked Raelle. "Do you even believe in that yourself?"

    "No," answered Mu Chenyan. "But just because I don''t believe in it doesn''t mean I won''t give it a try. I''d also like to see if this single thread has that much power."

    "So, now you''re testing the celestial powers?" questioned Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan turned serious as she said, "If there is a god, deity, angel, or even a devil who is willing to give me the guarantee that you''ll be safe, I''m even willing to sell my soul."

    Standing beside them, Shui Xian once again realized just what standing Raelle had in Mu Chenyan''s heart. When this woman says that Raelle isn''t just her niece, she means it every single time. Because Raelle was really Mu Chenyan''s life now and it couldn''t be denied.

    "Let''s have lunch," said Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan set the table for her while Shui Xian helped her. Well, there wasn''t much he could help with so he went to get a wet towel to help wipe Raelle''s hands.

    "I thought you''d bring Yue with you," said Raelle.

    "Her?" Mu Chenyan frowned thinking about her best friend, "Let her be. She wants to hide in the house these days." She showed her wrist to Raelle, "Look, she made me wear this red thread as well. But this one isn''t for protection, she hopes I can let go of the negative energy in me. I mean, I''m the sweetest and nicest person around here, how can I have any negative energy."

    Shui Xian almost stumbled at herment of being the sweetest and nicest.

    "Walk properly," said Mu Chenyan to Shui Xian who nodded his head obediently. "And also, I got one protection thread for you as well. So,e here."

    Shui Xian didn''t know how to react. Just a while ago, she was ready toe for his neck and now she wanted to tie that protection thread around his wrist. This woman was more difficult to understand than his own wife. But he still silently went up to Mu Chenyan who helped tie the thread.

    "Thank you," said Shui Xian. He was still looking at the red thread that was tied around his wrist and was simr to the one Raelle wore. He couldn''t help caressing it with a smile on his lips.

    "What for? We still don''t know if this thing works or not," was Mu Chenyan''s nd response.

    "Whether it does or not, doesn''t matter," said Shui Xian. "It''s your thought that counts more." And the thought really warmed his heart once again.

    "You really know how to talk," said Mu Chenyan. "Sit down and eat properly. If you won''t have energy, how are you gonna take care of my Elle?"

    "Yes, Ma''am!"

    Mu Chenyan rolled her eyes at him and sat down with them to eat lunch. She made three different kinds of porridge for Raelle. Just because she didn''t want her Raelle to eat any boring food. She should have some variety.

    All of them ate in silence and when Mu Chenyan was gathering the cutlery, that''s when Raelle spoke up, "Yanyan, I have a question for you."

    "Hm? What is it?"

    "Why did my mother-inw dislike Tang Hebe?" asked Raelle. "Or should I ask what was the about Tang family that my mother-inw couldn''t even stand their name?"

    Mu Chenyan stopped what she was doing and looked up at Raelle. Seeing that Raelle wasn''t gonna back off from this question, Mu Chenyan felt a little frustrated.

 Chapter 734 MingXia

    <h4>Chapter 734 MingXia</h4>

    "Haiz, here I thought my Elle was missing me," spoke Mu Chenyan in a sad tone. "But clearly, you just wanted to do some digging." She even wiped her non-existence tears but once she looked at Raelle eyes staring at her, she sighed, "I should drop the act?"

    "Yes," replied Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her forehead as she tried again to avoid this topic, "But my dearest Elle, I wasn''t close to Xian''s mother. Yes, we met. But we were just casual acquaintances. If you really want to know about her matters, ask Yue Yue instead."

    "I won''t ask her," said Raelle. "She is overly emotional. Just thinking about my mother-inw, she is gonna start shedding pearls from her eyes."

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips when she heard that from Raelle. Inwardly, she couldn''t help agreeing with that statement. Sigh! Her best friend was just that fond of shedding beautiful pearls from her eyes. What could they do about it?

    Raelle wasn''t done yet as she continued, "And also, even Yue Yue knows something, she won''t know it like you."

    Mu Chenyan scratched the back of her head and said, "But I didn''t know Qian Yin. I wasn''t all that interested in her personal life."

    "Lies," said Raelle nkly. "From the moment you chose Xian as my husband, you had an interest in everything and everyone rted to him. There is no way you don''t know anything."

    Mu Chenyan felt like she was pushed into a difficult situation here. Why did her Raelle have to know her so well? She couldn''t even pretend like she was an ignorant person here.

    She took a deep breath and paced around the room for five minutes before she stopped and faced them again. "You sure you want to know?" asked Mu Chenyan looking at Shui Xian and Raelle.

    "Yes," replied Shui Xian for both of them.

    "Then let''s start from the beginning," said Mu Chenyan. "It''s not just Qian Yin who had a problem with the Tang family. It''s the whole Qian family against the Tang family. Let''s make it clear. Both families are irreconcble. No matter where these two families face each other, they''ll always look for a way to ruin the other. It had been going on for the past four generations now."

    "But why?" asked Raelle.

    "Because they have a blood feud," answered Mu Chenyan. "It''s the feud that can never be settled unless every single person from both families perishes. There is no other way to end this feud."

    It was Shui Xian''s first time hearing about the blood feud. He didn''t even know anything about that.

    "How did it start?" asked Shui Xian.

    Mu Chenyan sighed at that, "Before I get there, let me give you a brief history of the rtionship between the Tang and Qian family." She looked serious looking at the yfulness and gentleness she always carried around Raelle. "Once upon a time, both families were actually very good family friends. No, scratch that, it was more than just friendship. It was a brotherhood that had been passed down for generations. Your great grandfather and Tang Hebe''s great grandfather were also sworn brothers. They grew up together like the previous generations of the two families. In fact, their wives were also best friends."

    Shui Xian felt like the start of this story was already shocking. If the two families had such a good rtionship, then what went wrong?

    "And because of this deep connection of brotherhood and friendship, Patriarch Tang wanted to marry his precious youngest daughter to the Qian family''s youngest son. They were both of the same age and from the moment they were born, the two families wrote their destinies. And trust me, this destiny was written with blood. If only they knew it back then."

    Shui Xian felt his breath hitch when he heard that. "Did one of them fall for someone else and wanted to break the promise between the two families?"

    "Is it a drama?" retorted Mu Chenyan. "It wasn''t like that. Qian Ming and Tang Xia... Oh, by the way, Qian Ming was your Granduncle and Tang Xia was Tang Hebe''s grandaunt. Even their names were chosen to match each other. Ming and Xia... Mingxia meaning bright glowing dawn clouds."

    Raelle really wanted to interrupt and asked Mu Chenyan, why she knew these small details when just a moment ago, she was iming to know nothing. Really, how could anyone believe her words from this? But it was a fact that Raelle didn''t like interrupting people so she just let Mu Chenyan continue.

    "Moving on, Qian Ming and Tang Xia grew up together. And even when they were kids they already knew that their families had chosen them as each other''s life partners. It couldn''t be better that with age, they loved each other more. Perhaps, it would have been better if they didn''t love each other so much. Everything would not have spiraled out of hands if those two had chosen to forget that love." There was no mncholy in Mu Chenyan''s voice as she spoke. She sounded more like she was displeased with something but only she''d know what she was displeased with.

    "If everything was well, where did it go wrong?" asked Shui Xian.

    "I''m getting there," said Mu Chenyan. "Don''t rush me. A storyteller has to first grab the interest of the listeners. Then drop the bomb!" She picked up a ss of water to take a sip and continued, "It all started in the 60s when the country was going through turbulent times. No one was safe. In that era of betrayal, Patriarch Qian was betrayed by his sworn brother. He was reported and his whole family was sent to the farm for reform. Perhaps the humiliation didn''t hurt as much as the betrayal so Patriarch Qian''s health deteriorated within days. Lack of proper healthcare led to his early demise on that desolute and cold farm."

    Shui Xian''s heart felt a chill seeping into his bones.

 Chapter 735 [Bonus chapter] Greed

    <h4>Chapter 735 [Bonus chapter] Greed</h4>

    "If truth be told, the bad blood between the two families started from the betrayal but Patriarch Qian''s death made the animosity absolute. From that very moment, there was no going back already. But some people are always persistent, or it''s better to call them foolishly stubborn," were Mu Chenyan''s words. "When all of this happened, Qian Ming and Tang Xia were only 14 years old. Tang Xia was too young and she was a girl. So, she couldn''t possibly do anything to help either. She could only helplessly watch as the boy she loved was separated from her. It was a huge blow to her and she became cold towards her own family."

    "By the time Qian Ming came back with his family, he was already 22 years old. All the hardships on the farm had turned him into a different person. People say he became ruthless but one thing didn''t change, and that was his love for Tang Xia. He was a firm believer in the fact that whatever happened had nothing to do with her. His motivation for pushing through all those years of hardship in the countryside was only Tang Xia.

    "I believe he must have been very happy when he came back and got to know that Tang Xia repeatedly refused to get married to anyone else. Even when her family forced her, she still held her ground. For him. Waiting for him."

    "That''s true love,"mented Shui Xian.

    "Is it?" asked Mu Chenyan with a sneer. She shrugged, "Maybe it was what you just said. But this love was meant to meet a tragic end. So what if Qian Ming came back? So what if Tang Xia was still waiting for him? Did it really matter? Don''t forget the crux of the matter was, that the Qian family and Tang family were no longer friends. They were enemies now. Matriarch Qian hated every single person in the Tang family who caused the death of her husband. And that included Tang Xia as well.

    "As for the Tang family, to hide their guilty conscience of how they used the Qian family''s reporting too raise their status in the society, they put on the mask of hostility as well. Because there was no road back, they took the road that led to hate. However, Tang Xia and Qian Ming chose to forget that their families now stood on opposite sides. Both families were like water and oil. They could never mix together again."

    "Did they go against their families to elope?" asked Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan shook her head, "No. Back then filial piety was still sacred. No matter what Qian Ming could never go against his mother. And Tang Xia was just a powerless little girl. How could she really stand against her own family? At the end of the day, they were her own family who spoiled her and loved her all her life. Perhaps, the thought of eloping would havee to their minds. But they didn''t in the end. Those fools chose something worse."

    "They took their lives," whispered Shui Xian.

    "Yes," said Mu Chenyan. "Since they couldn''t live together, they decided to die together. What a touching love story. Isn''t it?"

    "It isn''t," replied Raelle instantly.

    "Of course, it isn''t!" Mu Chenyan gave her Raelle a look of approval. "They thought their death will ease the tension between the families. It only made it worse. Both families med each other for losing their children. Both families got into physical fights and injured each other. They shed all cordiality and attacked each other on every front. If you''re doing business, I''ll follow you and crush you. If you''re going to enter a government office, I''ll follow you again and kill you! That''s the mentality those families had. But can they be med?"

    Shui Xian held Raelle''s hand in his own tightly as he listened to it. This wasn''t how he expected this story to turn out.

    "After their deaths, there were plenty of spections in the circle," told Mu Chenyan.

    "Spections? What kind of spection?" asked Raelle.

    "Some people said Qian Ming wasn''t really in love with Tang Xia when he came back. He only wanted revenge. And to avenge the betrayal and death of his father, he chose an easy target, Tang Xia. Even the Tang family believed those words. They really thought Qian Ming fooled their lovely daughter and ruined her." Mu Chenyan snickered, "Some even told this story as a beautifully tragic love story. I mean, those people definitely had a hole in their brains."

    "Are you saying, that they weren''t in love with each other?" asked Shui Xian.

    Mu Chenyan faced him and said, "No, they were in love. There was no doubt that Qian Ming loved Tang Xia."

    "Then you don''t think it was a beautifully tragic love story?"

    "It wasn''t," answered Mu Chenyan inly. "Am I supposed to call that foolishness beautiful? Tragic? Yes, I''ll agree with that. Beautiful love? No way!" She raised her brows and asked, "Son-inw, do you think it was love and hate that caused the chaos?"

    "Wasn''t it?" asked Shui Xian.

    "No," said Mu Chenyan. "It was greed. A human being is made of only greed! That is our true selves. We are all greedy. Either for love, revenge, money, power, or even immortality. We are deep down just greedy! That''s the true self of a human. It''s your greed that really makes you human."

    Shui Xian didn''t know how to react to her words. He actually had no answer right now.

    "The tale I told you wasn''t of love, it was just a tale of greed," said Mu Chenyan. She, whose idea of love was a bit skewed definitely didn''t find that story beautifully tragic. The so-called love was just selfishness, greed, and foolishness of two people who knew nothing about life.

    Obviously, most people won''t agree with her. But none would be able to challenge Mu Chenyan''s statement as well. The woman had an experience of having arguments with Raelle. She was definitely very sharp with her words and reasoning. She might be willful once upon a time, but now she was a patient person and knew how to use her reasoning to make her point clear.

 Chapter 736 Spreading Rumors

    <h4>Chapter 736 Spreading Rumors</h4>

    "Of course, you can disagree with my statement," said Mu Chenyan. "But I''ll still stress on this. All of that could have been avoided if only one person had decided to forsake their greed. Sadly, none was ready for that." She tsked to herself, "If Patriarch Tang hadn''t been greedy for power and elevating his status in the society, the Qian family wouldn''t have to suffer and Patriarch Qian wouldn''t have died. Then there are Qian Ming and Tang Xia, these two lovesick people thought they could fix everything with their death. But what happened? It worsened things for everyone. If they had chosen to listen to their family, Qian and the Tang family might not reconcile but over time, things would still get better. But with their deaths added into the mix, everything became impossible!"

    Raelle listened to everything attentively and contemted it seriously as well. "Yanyan, you haven''t mentioned my mother-inw yet."

    Mu Chenyan was startled, "I just exined the whole family feud to you, my love."

    "You want me to believe that my mother-inw''s displeasure towards Tang Hebe was because of this family feud? Do you think I''m an idiot? With how strongly she opposed that rtionship, she had her personal feelings involved. Don''t say she did it for her uncle who died even before she was born."

    Mu Chenyan cursed inwardly. Why was it so difficult to escape? It was really a challenge to hide anything from her. Shouldn''t an ordinary person feel like this much grudge between the families was enough to make the situation what it was? Why did her Raelle have to focus on the smallest of details?

    Forget it, Raelle was extraordinary. Her focus was obviously different from ordinary people.

    "That..." Mu Chenyan opened her mouth but looked at Shui Xian and stopped. "I can''t disclose that. You go and ask someone else. You can ask your B¨¤. Don''t ask me. I don''t know anything."

    "Your statement of ''I don''t know anything'' is actually very questionable," thement came from Shui Xian who was still trying to process the blood feud between the two families. And on top of that, his wife pointed out that his mother might have her own personal agenda.

    "Where is B¨¤?" asked Raelle. "I''ll just ask him if you''re really unwilling to speak."

    "Him?" snorted Mu Chenyan. "He had been locked up in his room bawling his eyes out since yesterday."

    "What?" asked Shui Xian.

    Mu Chenyan realized what she had just disclosed and rolled her eyes, "Well, that''s how it is. He isn''t eating or seen anyone since he went home. He just locked himself in the room."

    Shui Xian already knew that his father must be walloped because of Raelle''s miscarriage but he didn''t think the situation to be like this.

    "I don''t really me him for that," said Mu Chenyan. "Shing Ge still thinks he wronged his children for not being able to spend time with them when they were kids. So, he is someone who is most looking forward to having a grandchild. Even if he says otherwise, he really wants to hold a baby in his hand and act like the most loving grandpa ever."

    "Stop talking nonsense!"

    All three of them looked towards the door and found Shui Koshing standing there with a strange look directed toward Mu Chenyan.

    "Did you see my crying? Why are you spreading such rumors?"

    Mu Chenyan crossed her arms against her chest as she sneered, "With those red eyes, you still want me to prove the authenticity of my words?"

    Shui Koshing knew he couldn''t win against her so he chose not to say anything. He turned to Raelle and said, "Don''t listen to her. I''m fine. I just got dust in my eyes."

    Mu Chenyanughed out, "Shing Ge, at least look for a better excuse. Even middle schoolers don''t use that excuse anymore."

    Shui Koshing shook his head at her, "What were you all talking about just now?"

    "About the blood feud between the Qian family and the Tang family," replied Mu Chenyan casually but it stunned Shui Koshing for a moment. "In fact, your daughter-inw is very curious about her mother-inw, since you''re here please cure her curiosity. And spare me!"

    Shui Koshing was about to sit down when he paused and looked over at Raelle again who didn''t refute Mu Chenyan''s words. It seemed, his daughter-inw was really interested in her mother-inw today.

    "You don''t wanna tell me?" asked Raelle. "If you don''t want to, I won''t ask again, B¨¤."

    Shui Kohing thought about it and shook his head, "No. It''s not that I don''t want you to know about it. It''s just that... I can''t bring myself to tell you anything." He turned to Mu Chenyan, "Since you''re the one who started the story, why don''t you finish it as well?"

    "But I know nothing," said Mu Chenyan innocently.

    "Cut the crap!" retorted Shui Koshing. "If you really know nothing, I''m willing to shave my head!"

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips and looked at Shui Koshing in dissatisfaction. Couldn''t he see she was trying to get out of this matter? Why did he have to drag her back in for storytelling?

    "You really want me to recount everything?" asked Mu Chenyan. "And that too right in your presence? Won''t it hurt?"

    Shui Koshing looked somber as he said, "The people are all gone already. Why would it hurt now?" He sighed, "It''s my daughter-inw asking, I don''t want to hide anything from her."

    Mu Chenyan stared at his face for a long moment trying to figure out what he was thinking right now. Maybe he was tired of keeping the secret. Besides, the matter was only a secret because Shui Koshing did everything in his power to suppress it. Otherwise, half the city was aware of what happened back then.

    "Let me make a bold guess," started Raelle seeing how no one was taking the lead. "Mother Qian fell in love with Tang Hebe''s father."

 Chapter 737 Dream Guy

    <h4>Chapter 737 Dream Guy</h4>

    Both Mu Chenyan and Shui Koshing looked up at Raelle strangely.

    "Don''t tell me she is right," Shui Xian felt like he was gonna lose his mind if it turned out to be true.

    Fortunately, Mu Chenyan shook her head, "No. You''re wrong, darling. She wasn''t in love with Tang Hebe''s father." Just as Shui Xian was about to breathe in relief, Mu Chenyan dropped the bomb on his head, "She was in love with Tang Hebe''s eldest uncle, Tang Mu."

    "Really?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Koshing nodded his head, "Yes. I told you once daughter-inw, Qian Yin always had better options than me. Tang Mu was that better option."

    "If you ignore the fact that he was from the Tang family," Mu Chenyan chimed in. "Because the only thing wrong with Tang Mu was the fact that he was the eldest son of the Tang family." She leaned back on the sofa as she went on, "Apart from that fact, he was the perfect guy. I met him a couple of times when I was a kid. He was just a teenager back then but he was still more impressive than his peers. He always stood out. Wherever he went, the crowd followed him. He was handsome, gentle, very calm personality, loved peace, and always smiled at people giving them afortable feeling. He had a big fan following even back in the day when the inte wasn''t a thing because his fame was spread far and wide."

    Shui Xian was still reeling in shock while Raelle questioned, "What are you trying to say by exining his good qualities?"

    "I''m trying to tell you how easy it was for anyone to fall in love with a guy who was publicly known as the dream guy ofdies," said Mu Chenyan. She patted Shui Koshing''s shoulder, "So, Shing Ge, don''t be upset. He was really like the moon, it couldn''t be helped that a star like Qian Yin fell for him."

    Shui Koshing swatted her hand away, "Shut up! Keep your sympathy to yourself. Why would I be upset? She was my wife, in the end!"

    Mu Chenyan felt like Shui Koshing really had a way to console himself. But she should really stop rubbing salt on his old wounds.

    "Everyone lived in the same city, it was inevitable to run into each other," said Mu Chenyan. "Back then, Tang Mu and Qian Yin ran into each other only in middle school. Both families'' children grew up with the knowledge that both families were enemies. But every generation has some oddballs. Let''s say Tang Mu and Qian Yin happened to be those oddballs who thought that family feud had nothing to do with them. Especially since Tang Mu once happened to save Qian Yin''s life during a camping trip."

    "When did that happen?" asked Shui Koshing in surprise.

    "You don''t know?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Well, of course, you don''t know. You only met them in high school and this happened in middle school."

    Shui Koshing narrowed his eyes at her, "Then how do you know?"

    Mu Chenyan coughed and looked anywhere but at him.

    "Chenyan!"

    "Fine, I learned about it from Yue," answered Mu Chenyan. "Happy now?" She grumbled something to herself before saying, "I was curious why Qian Yin decided to forget the family feud and befriended Tang Mu. Yue told me it was because Tang Mu saved her life and she felt like not everyone in the Tang family was a scumbag worthy of her hatred. Well, in retrospect, she wasn''t wrong either. Tang Mu deserved the fame he got back then. He was really a good guy worthy of respect and admiration."

    "Why don''t you say something?" asked Mu Chenyan to Shui Koshing. "I''m thirsty now. Continue the story, I''m gonna drink something first."

    Before she could even try to escape, Shui Koshing threw a bottle at her which she caught perfectly and nced at him. "Just drink it. Don''t even think of escaping now."

    Mu Chenyan could only sigh at her luck right now and uncap the bottle to drink.

    "By the time Tang Mu and Qian Yin entered the high school, they were already best friends. It was like family feud had nothing to do with them," told Shui Koshing. "In fact, they were known as the perfect match for each other. If the dream guy won''t fall for the dream girl of the school then who else? It was unanimously decided that they are a match made in heaven. Meant for each other."

    "I can''t believe that just came out of your mouth," said Mu Chenyan in shock.

    "Do you really think I can''t talk about that time?" retorted Shui Koshing. "It''s not like I ever hated Tang Mu or anything. Back then I only had a crush on Qian Yin but seeing her being surrounded by such an exceptional guy, even I subconsciously believed that they were actually a good match."

    "You really thought so?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "Do I look like a scheming man or a jealous one?" asked Shui Koshing in return. "I know when to back off you know. She never even looked at me as anything more than just a friend. Why would I be jealous?" Perhaps, he was a little envious of Tang Mu back then because of how he always had to lose to that guy. But he wasn''t jealous. He also appreciated Tang Mu''s abilities and didn''t find it surprising that Qian Yin would be attracted to such an amazing guy.

    Just as Mu Chenyan had said, the only fault that could be found in Tang Mu was that he was the Eldest young master of the Tang family. Apart from that, he was perfect!

    "They really started dating?" asked Raelle bringing these back on track.

    "Yes," answered Mu Chenyan. "By the end of high school, they were madly in love with each other."

    "Since you phrased it as ''madly in love''. How mad was that love?" inquired Raelle.

    "Mad to the point of eloping," was Mu Chenyan''s casual response.

 Chapter 738 Run Away

    <h4>Chapter 738 Run Away</h4>

    "They eloped?" asked Raelle.

    But before Mu Chenyan could answer, a hand covered her mouth. She turned her head to Shui Koshing in dissatisfaction and saw him shaking his head. Seeing how he hinted with his eyes, Mu Chenyan also shifted her focus towards Shui Xian who looked so pale now. It startled her.

    She cursed mentally.

    She went with the flow of the story and forgot to take notice of the emotions of the listeners. Raelle was okay. After all, she always looked at everything from the third person point of view. She had this special ability to extract herself from the situation and look at it clearly. She could even look at her own situation as if it didn''t matter and there was no resentment. How could the story of her mother-inw''s past get to her?

    However, Shui Xian was a different story. Qian Yin was his mother. And the thing was, no matter how he went against his mother before her death, he loved her the most as well. He was always attached to his mother rather than his father. How could this sudden revtion of his mother''s past not affect him mentally or emotionally?

    Raelle also noticed the change in Shui Xian and held his trembling hand in her own. She obviously wasn''t someone tofort you with words but she could offer her support and let him know that he was not alone.

    "I think we should stop it here," said Mu Chenyan. "Anyway, you already know the grudge between the two families. There is no need to go into such minor details."

    "I want to know," said Shui Xian in a soft voice. But when he looked at Mu Chenyan, he looked firm. "I want you to continue."

    Mu Chenyan hesitated. From her understanding of Shui Xian, this son-inw of their family could be an emotional mess. And once he learned the whole truth, there was no denying that he was gonna churn himself with the guilt of hurting his mother with his own stubbornness, not even knowing anything about why she insisted on keeping him away from the Tang family.

    And Mu Chenyan could already see the guilt in Shui Xian''s eyes. He had never forgotten how he hurt his mother.

    "I''m not that weak," said Shui Xian trying to convince her. "Trust me, I can take the truth."

    Mu Chenyan obviously didn''t believe that but she still wanted to continue. She didn''t want to leave this story halfway. She had already started, it was only right for her toplete it. In a way, Shui Xian really needed this truth that Qian Yin wanted to keep from him.

    Shui Xian sat down on Raelle''s bed and continued to hold her hand as he asked, "So, did they really elope?"

    Mu Chenyan, "No. But that was the original n."

    "One of them backed out?" asked Shui Xian. "Perhaps, Tang Mu backed out and my mother held the grudge of betrayal."

    "If only it was that simple," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Of course, it wasn''t that simple," said Raelle. "If Tang Mu was the kind of person who backed out at thest moment, my Yanyan wouldn''t have such a high opinion of him."

    Mu Chenyan''s lips curled up when she heard that from Raelle. "Son-inw, you should listen to my Elle. I, Mu Chenyan am not that easily impressed by people. And Mr. Tang Mu happened to be someone who really left an impression on me."

    "Don''t be hasty to judge people, son," spoke Shui Koshing. "Tang Mu was a very loyal person."

    "Of course, his loyalty was also the reason for his demise," added Mu Chenyan. "So the n was of eloping if they didn''t manage to convince their families. They both tried their best but the Tang family and Qian family didn''t want to take a step back. Tang Mu being the eldest of the family had a lot of responsibilities but he was willing to give up everything for Qian Yin. And technically, he really did give everything. Even his own life."

    Shui Xian didn''t like the sound of any of it. He didn''t know why it made him feel so uneasy right now. His heart was in a chaotic state right now.

    "When Tang Mu and Qian Yin really nned to run away, things didn''t go their way. They didn''t realize how far their families could go for their enmity. Qian Yin''s elder brother Qian Yan was sent to bring Qian Yin back home. On the other hand, the Tang family was already fully prepared. I won''t go into details, just know that during the scuffle, the person who died was Qian Yan. The only male descendant of the Qian family left behind his six months pregnant wife while trying to protect his sister from the Tang family''s attack."

    Shui Xian felt like the whole world went silent once he heard that and his mind reeled. If he had been standing, he definitely would stagger. Thankfully, he already sat with Raelle but the way his grip on Raelle''s hand tightened. It could be said he was clenching her hand so tight that it was painful. But Raelle didn''t say a word of dissatisfaction.

    Honestly speaking, she couldn''t understand Shui Xian''s feelings right now. She tried to put herself in his shoes but the way she was wired, she still couldn''t understand his inner turmoil and pain. And she definitely couldn''t even understand his guilt. She couldn''t understand how he felt like he was about to lose his mind.

    As for Shui Xian, he suddenly recalled how intense his mother''s reaction was when he said, ''I''ll move out with Tang Hebe if you don''t like her. And if you continued to force us, I might even run away with her.''

    At that time, Qian Yin had pped him. That was such a shock to Shui Xian. But now that he recalled that scene, he understood what was hidden behind his mother''s anger. It was fear. Fear of losing him. She was holding back her pain. But he didn''t see anything.

 Chapter 739 Blackest Heart

    <h4>Chapter 739 ckest Heart</h4>

    "Don''t think Qian family was simple," stated Mu Chenyan. "They weren''t all that clean either. But it''s just that the Tang family never was afraid to y dirty. The gunfight was intense and even innocent passersby got caught in the crossfire. But the heavy casualties belonged to the Qian family since they lost their heir." She sighed with emotion as she added, "He wasn''t the only one who got shot. Tang Mu was also trying to protect Qian Yin from his family. And he also got shot. But unlike Qian Yan who took hisst breath in the arms of his sister, Tang Mu survived."

    "The real hatred of Qian Yin began from that moment," said Shui Koshing. "She thought Tang Mu betrayed her. After all, only they knew the n of their escape. Then why did it seem like the Tang family came prepared? And it was even the Tang family who informed the Qian family about their n of eloping as well."

    Mu Chenyan tsked at that, "I say, poor Tang Mu was really pitiful, eh! His only fault was to love Qian Yin. But he was punished for that love. He was the most promising heir but that incident was his downfall. He didn''t even do anything wrong and yet had to see the hatred in the eyes of the woman he loved the most. In fact, it was wrong to say that Tang Mu survived that day. Because in reality, Tang Mu died that day as well."

    "What really happened back then?" asked Raelle.

    "Of course, there was betrayal," said Mu Chenyan. "But the person who betrayed was not Tang Mu. It was his second brother, Tang Cheng. You see, Tang Cheng was also very close to Qian Yin because of his brother''s friendship with her. And Qian Yin really trusted him as a friend as well. If there was one person who knew about what Tang Mu and Qian Yin were up to, that was Tang Cheng. And he didn''t hesitate in betraying his friendship with Qian Yin or even betraying his own brother. All for his own greed."

    "Tang Cheng is Tang Hebe''s father," it wasn''t a question from Raelle. It was a statement. No matter how uninterested she was in Tang Hebe, there had to be some things she''d know because she was part of the corporate world.

    "Yes, he is," answered Shui Koshing. "And he is also the one with the ckest heart in the world. He knew he could never be able to shine as long as Tang Mu was there. After all, Tang Mu''s shadow was way too big. His brilliance was unmatched. Someone scheming and maniptive like Tang Cheng could never be on the same level of Tang Mu who was a born talent. In all honesty, if Tang Mu was still a part of the Tang family, they would have been at the top of the society."

    "Sadly, Tang Mu couldn''t fight with his destiny," added Mu Chenyan. "He survived the gunshot. But he couldn''t live with his broken heart. He couldn''t live with the hatred that Qian Yin had for him at that time and his health continued to deteriorate. I think he knew he wasn''t gonna live long, and that''s why he chose to go abroad. And so did the Qian family. Qian Yin was alreadybeled the sinner of the family. Even if no one said anything, she felt like a sinner herself and couldn''t face anyone. So when the Qian family chose to leave the country for good, she didn''t follow them."

    No one knew what Mu Chenyan was thinking with such a downcast expression but she still continued, "Old Master Qian had it the worst. He watched his father dying in his youth. He saw how his sistermitted suicide when he grew up. And then he even had to send his only son to the underworld dragging his old bones. He saw so many people dying that he felt like he was left with no more energy to lose anyone else. So, he wanted to take his pregnant daughter-inw and his wife who had fallen sick away from the country that only gave him pain."

    She looked out the window staring at the chirping bird outside as she went on, "He didn''t want to lose his only daughter as well. Even if she did something wrong, he was a father who loved his only daughter just as much as he loved his son. He tried to convince Qian Yin to leave as well."

    "But she wanted to stay," said Shui Koshing. "Qian Yin wanted to stay for her family. She didn''t want anyone to forget her family. She didn''t want anyone and especially the Tang family to think that they were cowards who ran away. She was willing to do anything in her power to revive the glory of her family."

    "That''s when Shing Gees in the picture," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Don''t make it sound like our marriage was just a business cooperation," Shui Koshing red at her unhappily.

    "I didn''t say that," Mu Chenyan defended herself. "But you have to agree that Qian Yin looked for you because she wanted to cooperate with the Shui Cooperation." She suddenly chuckled, "After all, while Tang family and Qian family were eating each other up, the biggest winner was Shui family since they didn''t have to do anything to win against the two families."

    And she wasn''t lying about that either. While the Tang family and the Qian family wanted to one up each other, the biggest winner was indeed the Shui family who was standing on the sidelines. The Shui family only had to do their job well. As for Tang family and Qian family, they were too focused on revenge that they didn''t notice how the Shui family kept on umting power, money, status, and respect in the society.

    "Is this why B¨¤ said your patience really paid out?" asked Raelle.

 Chapter 740 Deceive Myself

    <h4>Chapter 740 Deceive Myself</h4>

    "You think I''m the one who reaped all the benefits?" asked Shui Koshing and shook his head. "It wasn''t like that so. When Tang and the Qian family were fighting, the Shui family indeed managed to get more advantage but it was when I hadn''t even joined the family business."

    "I heard Shing Ge didn''t even want to join the family business," mentioned Mu Chenyan.

    Shui Koshing rubbed his nose awkwardly but still told the truth, "Of course, I didn''t want to join the family business. My father had way too many expectations from me since I was his only son. He wanted to train me to be the perfect heir. Do you even realize what he put me through just to turn me into a perfect heir? The reason why I never got the chance to pursue Qian Yin back in high school was that I had to go home and look through a pile of documents my father brought for me to test my learning abilities."

    Just thinking about his youth, Shui Koshing felt like his blood was boiling. He also wanted to enjoy his youth but he wasn''t allowed to. Because his parents constantly reminded him that he had responsibilities greater than his peers.

    "But in college, Qian Yin came to me and proposed to cooperate with the Shui family," Shui Koshing suddenly had a sweet smile on his lips when he recalled that time. "She was so serious, wanting to regain her family''s glory. She wanted everyone to remember the Qian family. If I''m being honest, I don''t even know what she talked about during that meeting. Because from the time I found her waiting outside the door of my ssroom, I was lost. And then she asked in her sweet voice if I had time to have a cup of coffee with her."

    "And a lovesick fool like you was already on cloud nine?"

    Shui Koshing gave Mu Chenyan a look of dissatisfaction. Did she have to expose him like that? It''s not like she was there. How did she know what he was feeling at that time? But he didn''t realize that he was being very obvious with his feelings right now.

    "Chenyan, have you ever had a crush on anyone?" asked Shui Koshing.

    "Nope," answered Mu Chenyan. "Waste of time. Waste of feelings as well."

    Shui Koshing shook his head at her, "And that''s why you don''t know how it feels when the person you have had a crush on for yearses to you and asks you out for a coffee. Even if it was just to talk about business, I was more than happy to deceive myself." He took a deep breath and added, "From the moment I agreed to her proposal, I loved going to thepany to work. It couldn''t be helped. If I could do anything for her, I was more than willing to do so."

    "Ah! No wonder people said Qian Yin took advantage of your feelings for her,"mented Mu Chenyan. That remark earned her a hostile look from Shui Koshing and she innocently defended herself, "What? It''s not like I was the one spreading those rumors."

    Although Shui Koshing didn''t like it, he still had to agree that there were such rumors around them back then. Shui Koshing looked at his son and said, "You have to keep in mind, Xian, that your mom never took advantage of my feelings for her. We really started as just friends who turned into business partners and eventually into life partners. The road wasn''t easy. I pursued her for years. Whatever happened back then had chilled her heart. She wasn''t willing to open her heart but I was a persistent person and a patient one as well. I seeded after a long struggle. And when we married, we were in love with each other."

    He was keeping an eye on Shui Xian''s expressions as he continued, "Yes, I''ll honestly tell you that your mother''s love for me was different. Her first love was unrestrained, wild, passionate, and fiery. It was the kind of love that was ready to fight against the world. But her love for me started from her admiration for my work. She had respect for me, she trusted me with all her heart and soul. This love was a lot calmer than the impatience of her first love."

    Although he knew that Qian Yin didn''t want their children to learn about the nature of their rtionship, Shui Koshing knew it was no point hiding now. It had been a long time and they had to speak the truth.

    "Oh, there was definitely love," stated Mu Chenyan. "If it wasn''t love, your father wouldn''t have stood in front of her to take the brunt of everything. People had a lot to say about Qian Yin''s affair with Tang Mu. It was an open secret. And people in every era love to gossip. How could they not gossip about Qian Yin? But have you ever heard anything about your mother from people, son-inw?"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "I have never heard people mention anything bad about my mother."

    Mu Chenyan smirked, "The credit for that definitely belongs to your father. Shing Ge only looks mellow now. He seems to have lost his edges. But in his youth, he was also very temperamental. He was someone who loved to even argue with his own father just because his father was too strict about creating a perfect heir. How could he not stand up for the woman he loved? He used his ruthless means to make sure no one ever dared to speak a word of what happened between the Tang family and Qian Yin. Even the Tang family won''t speak this truth anymore."

    Shui Xian looked at his father with aplicated look in his eyes. He knew he didn''t have the best of rtionship with his father in his youth. And maybe that''s why he never figured out what kind of a person his father was. But now they were very close. However, after his mother''s death, even Shui Xian has to agree that Shui Koshing lost all his edges. he had even lost his will to fight. Wasn''t that why he was willing to separate from the Shui family?

 Chapter 741 Cursed Love

    <h4>Chapter 741 Cursed Love</h4>

    "Shui family wasn''t satisfied with Qian Yin being their next mistress," told Mu Chenyan. "All because her reputation wasn''t good after she ran away with Tang Mu. It was a big scandal and a family like Shui wouldn''t want to have a mistress who had an ''unclean'' past. But Shing Ge was very stubborn. He had worked day and night just to take over theplete control of the business and used his iron fist to keep everyone on track."

    "Grandpa and Grandma didn''t like mom?" asked Shui Xian with furrowed brows.

    "No, they always liked Qian Yin," said Shui Koshing. "It was the extended family who had too many problems. Although my father and mother did have opinions about Qian Yin''s love for Tang Mu, it was only because they knew how much I love her. They didn''t want to have a daughter-inw who didn''t love their son. But Qian Yin proved to them that their worries were unfounded. So, they didn''t say anything."

    He sighed to himself, "It was only during that time I realized why my father insisted on grooming me from a young age. He was familiar with his own family. So, he knew how much pressure I''d have to face once I took over the business. And I''m actually grateful he trained me so well that when the time came, I was able to protect the woman I loved from those rtives."

    "Shing Ge, I heard your mother actually beat a friend of hers who said her daughter-inw wasn''t clean," said Mu Chenyan.

    Shui Koshing gave Mu Chenyan a look, "Why do you even know so much?"

    "How is it my fault that people love to gossip? I just heard a few unnecessary things," she exined.

    Shui Koshing didn''t know what to say. "Well, it''s true. My mother even pped that friend of hers for pointing a finger at Qian Yin. Actually, I shouldn''t be surprised you heard this gossip, it was a big deal since that friend was the wife of an official. It''s just that my mother was not a soft persimmon as well. So, it spiraled into a big scandal." He shook his head and went on, "Anyway, let''s forget about these unnecessary details. The main point is that Qian Yin did have her reasons for not agreeing to your rtionship with Tang Hebe."

    Shui Xian felt his heart clench. Of course, he understood very well by now why his mother opposed that rtionship so much. But she should have told him everything.

    "I know you must be thinking that she should have told you everything," said Shui Koshing as if he read his son''s mind. "But she had her own thoughts. Although she didn''t want to forgive the Tang family and she never did, she didn''t want to impart that hatred to you as well. She believed the hatred was between the Qian family and the Tang family. You being the son of the Shui family should stay away from that hatred. She thought by keeping you away from hatred, she''d be able to protect you. She wanted to end the vicious cycle of hatred but she didn''t think destiny was still as cruel as ever."

    "At this moment, I''d say what I heard once," started Mu Chenyan. "The Tang family and the Qian family were cursed. Every generation found a way to fall in love and in every generation, that love destroyed them. Isn''t it funny though? If you think about it, whether it was Qian Ming and Tang Xia or Tang Mu and Qian Yin, the love was very real and deep. And if I take your example, son-inw, it''s not like you and Tang Hebe''s love wasn''t real at all. It''s such a shame that these two families were just never meant to be."

    "Yanyan, are you saying it''s a shame that Xian is now my husband?" asked Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan was startled and shook her head like a rattle, "I don''t dare say that, sweetheart! How can I? I didn''t mean that. Don''t misunderstand my words here."

    Shui Koshing suddenly chuckled when he saw Mu Chenyan''s reaction. She was truly flustered now. Indeed, only Raelle could make her sweat like this.

    Mu Chenyan scratched her head and said, "What I meant was that the entanglement of Tang and Qian family always ended up in spilling blood. Even in Xian''s case, the one whose blood was spilled was Qian Yin. So, isn''t it like a curse where someone has to die as a sacrifice for the love?"

    Shui Xian felt like something was stuck in his throat. He couldn''t swallow it and neither could he spit it out. It was painful. Indeed, his love for Tang Hebe ended up sacrificing his own mother.

    Shui Koshing''s expressions changed once he heard Mu Chenyan''s sentence and secretly pinched her arm. He suddenly stood up and said, "Chenyan, we should leave now. I think the storytelling is done here."

    As if realizing something, Mu Chenyan also followed, "That''s right. We are done. Look at the time. We''ve been here for two hours. I should go back and make preparations for dinner."

    While these two were subtly trying to escape, Raelle continued to observe them intently. Mu Chenyan already knew she couldn''t escape from Raelle''s eyes but she still pretended like she was being serious. Thankfully, Raelle didn''t pursue the matter.

    "Yanyan!"

    "Yes?"

    "Do you have a photo of Mr. Tang Mu?" asked Raelle for some reason.

    Mu Chenyan frowned at her question and shook her head, "I don''t have it right now. But it''s in my investigation file. Do you want to see it?"

    "Yes," answered Raelle.

    "Why?" asked Mu Chenyan not understanding it.

    "Because I want to see what he looked like," said Raelle. "Since my Yanyan has such a high opinion of him, I''d like to see what he looked like."

    Mu Chenyan understood that reasoning and pulled out her phone and sent some instructions and patiently waited. It didn''t even take five minutes before she received the photo.

 Chapter 742 Motherâ€™s Intuition

    <h4>Chapter 742 Mother''s Intuition</h4>

    Mu Chenyan passed her phone to Raelle who looked at the photo with interest. Shui Xian''s eyes inadvertently fell on the phone''s screen and looked at the man in that photo. For a moment, Shui Xian was stunned.

    "No wonder, mom never liked seeing Tang Hebe," hemented.

    Shui Koshing heard his son''s voice and said, "How could she? Tang Hebe was not only the daughter of the man she hated the most in her life, Tang Hebe also resembled the man Qian Yin once loved. You can say Qian Yin had the mostplicated reaction when it came to Tang Hebe."

    Instead of inheriting her own parents'' looks, Tang Hebe looked more like her uncle who was already dead by the time she was even born. And whenever Qian Yin looked at that face, she was reminded of that man whom she once love with all her heart. But at the same time, she was reminded of how it was Tang Hebe''s father that destroyed everything for her.

    "I should have listened to mom," said Shui Xian particrly aggrievedly. "I shouldn''t have insisted on being with Tang Hebe back then."

    Mu Chenyan was still trying to figure out why Raelle was interested in the photo of her mother-inw''s ex-boyfriend. And that ex-boyfriend was even dead for so long. But knowing Raelle, she won''t show interest in things without a reason. It was just that it was difficult for Mu Chenyan to figure out Raelle''s interest at the moment.

    If she thinks about how Raelle said she was interested in Tang Mu because of how highly Mu Chenyan spoke of him, although there wasn''t anything wrong with those words, however, those words were not enough to convince Mu Chenyan.

    And while she was still lost in her thoughts, she heard Shui Xian''s statement and frowned.

    "Son-inw, you need to take it easy here," said Mu Chenyan. "Let me tell you something. I have had two mothers in my life. One is my birth mother and the other is my foster mother, who happened to be Raelle''s grandmother. But I''ll tell you honestly that in all my life, I have only disappointed them." She didn''t mind telling the truth about her glorious deed at all. "Mothers often have very scary intuitions. I don''t remember my birth mother all that much. I was very young when she died. But I still remember something she said to me. She said, ''Chen''er, mom is worried about you. Mom thinks you are gonna give people a headache.'' And guess what? She was right. As for my foster mother, she said, ''Ah-Chen, do you realize how worried I am about you? Let me tell you, one day Heaven is gonna give you something you''ll be scared to lose. And only then you''ll understand what kind of worries you put me through.''"

    Raelle blinked her eyes, thinking that it seemed to be somehow rted to her.

    And sure enough, Mu Chenyan continued, "And then that foster mother of mine put a little girl into my arms before taking herst breath. Can you believe how her words came true? Today, I lose my mind if there is even a scratch on my Elle''s body, I can''t even imagine what I put my godmother through when I used toe back ck and blue. Sometimes, even stained in blood." She sighed, "But even after everything, did I stop disappointing them? I don''t think so. The point is, son-inw, sometimes we like to believe in ourselves more than others. There is nothing wrong with that. However, when you have put all your trust in your own judgment, then even if you fail, you have to take all the responsibility for it as well."

    "Chenyan, you talk too much," said Shui Koshing. "Let''s leave now. My daughter-inw needs to rest."

    Mu Chenyan agreed, "Yes, we should leave. Xian also needs some time alone." She rubbed their heads lovingly and said, "Bye, babies! I''lle to see youter."

    As Shui Koshing dragged her out, he gave her a look, "Put a stopper on your mouth. You almost told them everything."

    Mu Chenyan''s brows knitted up and she nodded, "Indeed. I almost slipped up but why are you still hiding it from Xian? I thought when you looked for me back then to help you find out everything about that incident, you wanted to give an exnation to your children?"

    Shui Koshing shook his head, "When I asked you to look into the matter, Xian was already married to Tang Hebe. What exnation could I give him?"

    "But now, they have long divorced," reminded Mu Chenyan.

    "So what? You think I should reveal everything so that my son could suffer even more? You think he hasn''t been suffering enough? Xian has always been an emotional person. Just the things you revealed are enough to make his guilt eat him alive."

    Mu Chenyan tsked at that, "I don''t understand you people. Can''t you be just honest with your kids? If I started keeping so many secrets from my Elle, she''d have long roasted me alive with her words. You might think kids won''t understand where you''reing from but trust me, they also have their own thoughts. Especially now that they are adults and deserve to know the truth." She pursed her lips and didn''t want to continue but recalled something and cursed, "Fuck! Shing Ge, you won''t be able to keep it quiet for long."

    "What do you mean?"

    "The way you stopped me from continuing couldn''t escape Elle''s eyes," said Mu Chenyan. "Her perception skills are higher than others. Shui Xian was lost in the turmoil of his emotions but Elle was clear-headed. She heard and saw everything more clearly than Xian. There is no way, she didn''t realize that we are hiding something."

    Shui Koshing rubbed his temples feeling resolute. He could only sigh to himself as he said, "I''m gonna go and learn about Tang Hebe''s condition. You wait here ore with me?"

    "I''m not interested in her," Mu Chenyan. "Elle didn''t allow me to punch her. So, I''m not interested at all."

    Shui Koshing shook his head at her, "Then you wait here. I''ll be right back."

    Mu Chenyan pushed her hands into her pocket and looked at the patientsing and going, feeling bored. And that''s when she heard someone calling her...

 Chapter 743 Capacity Of Understanding

    <h4>Chapter 743 Capacity Of Understanding</h4>

    Once Mu Chenyan and Shui Koshing left, Shui Xian was left staring into space. Raelle first thought about something and then, she squeezed his hand to get his attention.

    "What are you still thinking about?" she asked.

    Shui Xian looked into Raelle''s clear eyes and replied, "I''m thinking if the things would have been different if my mother had told me the truth from the beginning."

    Raelle didn''t even think about it before telling him, "And what makes you think that?"

    "Maybe I''d have kept my distance from Tang Hebe if I knew what happened between her family and my mother''s family," he sounded very uncertain since even he didn''t know if he was right or not.

    "And that''s where you''re wrong," said Raelle. "My dear husband, didn''t you hear what Yanyan said? Even if your mother had told you the truth, you''d have argued that just because her love failed, doesn''t mean yours will too. After all, why should a child carry the pot of their parent''s sins? After all, the one who wronged my mother-inw was not Tang Hebe, it was her father." She took a pause and told him, "I read it somewhere that when you''re in love, you''d always find an excuse to make your love feel justified. It means, that when we love someone, we look at them through a filter that doesn''t allow us to see their bad side."

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "Right. Just like now, I want to find an excuse for myself. But I can''t help it. How am I supposed to just be okay after learning all that truth?"

    "Who asked you to be okay?" asked Raelle. "You''re not Raelle Xiang. Even if you''re Raelle Xiang''s husband, you aren''t as awesome as her." Shui Xian stared at her nkly as she continued topliment herself to heaven without any shame. "You''re just a human. In fact, you''re even a little too human."

    "There is a thing called being ''too human?''"

    Raelle nodded her head in response, "It means you feel things even more intensely than most people. And that is why I''m not expecting you to be okay after knowing everything." She took a pause and told him, "And as for why my mother-inw didn''t tell you anything? Think about it yourself. Apart from stopping the hatred, she also had another reason."

    "What other reason?" asked Shui Xian.

    "Didn''t you tell me that your mom really loved your dad but B¨¤ often had no time for your family? And your mom was always the one amodating to him and never felt wronged? She even told you how they loved each other and how they were a perfect couple?"

    Shui Xian nodded in a daze.

    "Then why don''t you think about the same situation again? Why was B¨¤ always busy? Wasn''t it to make sure that no one could say a word against your mother? He did his best for his wife and his wife did his best for their family. Your mom might not be perfect but she raised you with love. Not only that, she wanted to prove to you that your parents were deeply in love. Why would she open the pages of the past before you and reveal the truth of her painful first love? She must have not wanted to ruin her image in her children''s hearts. After all, she must have heard enough gossip from the world."

    Shui Xian felt like the matter became a lot clearer with her exnation and he couldn''t help but just stare at her face.

    "In fact, my mom was really good," agreed Shui Xian. "She never even pped Tang Hebe, or threw water at her face, or even raised her voice at her. At most, her words were harsh. But she never tried to use any maniptions or schemes to separate us. I wonder why though?"

    "Perhaps, she was giving your love a benefit of the doubt?" answered Raelle. "If she had used harsh means to separate you both, she''d feel like history was repeating itself. Because that''s what her parents did. So, she wanted to give your love the benefit of the doubt to see how far it could go. She wanted to believe in your love and in you. The thing that she couldn''t let go of was the Tang family''s scheming that destroyed her family. And so, even if she wanted to give your love a benefit of the doubt, she couldn''t stop her heart from being scared that something will go wrong again. And for that purpose, she kept trying to talk to you and convince you."

    When she stopped, she asked, "Why are you looking at me like that?"

    Shui Xian hugged her in his arms as he said, "I''m looking at just how this brain of yours works. Why do your thoughts keep on surprising me over and over again? I should be used to it but I still get taken aback." He kissed her cheek and said, "Thank you for being here with me. Or else..."

    "Or else, with your thinking speed, you''d have had a mental breakdown by now."

    Shui Xian chuckled but couldn''t disagree with her words, "You''re right. But the way you speak about my mom, it''s as if you knew her very well. You never even met her."

    "Who said I didn''t know her?" asked Raelle surprising Shui Xian. "Didn''t I tell you that I met your mother?"

    Shui Xian tried to recall but couldn''t really remember so he shook his head, "I don''t remember."

    "Well, that''s not my fault. But the truth is, I did meet your mother. So, I might not know her very well but I did understand her as per my capacity of understanding."

    Now, that statement was heavy to Shui Xian. Because the capacity of understanding that his dear wife just spoke of was something even he wasn''t able to gauge until now. And the talent of his wife, who was unfamiliar with that? Raelle Xiang could read you like an open book if she was interested in you, it was a fact!

 Chapter 744 Dominos

    <h4>Chapter 744 Dominos</h4>

    "Mu husband," called Raelle, and Shui Xian had an illusion that it sounded too sweet to his ears. He could bet on his life that there was no fluctuation in Raelle''s voice or tone. It was as nd as ever and yet, he was having these weird illusions.

    But he was someone who was willing to delude himself when it came to his wife.

    "Yes, my wife," he answered.

    "I can give you hugs all you want," said Raelle making Shui Xian just stare at her once again. "Or else, if you want something else, you can tell me. As long as I''m capable, I''ll give it to you. No, that''s not even a question. There are hardly any things that I, Raelle Xiang am not capable of bringing to you."

    The curvature of Shui Xian''s lips couldn''t help going up. His dear wife was really trying to coax him like a kid now. But why did he like this feeling so much?

    "What if all I want right now are you?" asked Shui Xian.

    "I''m already yours," she replied. "Legally. Do you wanna see our marriage certificate?"

    Shui Xian was still hugging her and buried his face on the side of her neck as he said, "It''s because you''re all mine that I am able to hold on." He rubbed the tip of his nose against her neck and went on, "Today, I again realized why you and I are a perfect match."

    "Why?" asked Raelle.

    "Because I''m too emotional and you''re too rational," he answered the same way they had discussed once before. "I need your rationality in my emotional life. And you need some of my emotions to rub off on your rational self." He sighed, "But it seems I still have a long road ahead of me. I should work harder."

    "What for?" she inquired as her fingers yed with his hair nonchntly as if having a mind of their own.

    Shui Xian closed his eyes as he enjoyed the way her fingers ran through his hair. It felt sofortable. Especially when his heart and mind were in a mess. He really craved thefort her presence brought to him. He wasn''t just that her presence was helping him hold on, he was being sincere. He really didn''t know how was he able to cope with everything if she wasn''t around.

    Even if she said no words offort like most people, he still felt reassured andfortable with her around. She was always so strong that anyone would want to lean on her. He was no different. As a man, he was supposed to be the pir of the family but he didn''t mind epting the fact that at times like these, it was his wife who was the pir supporting their family.

    "Didn''t you say, I''m not Raelle Xiang. Even if I''m Raelle Xiang''s husband, I still have a long way to reach her awesomeness. So, I need to work hard to get there." He smiled to himself as he asked, "You won''t dislike your husband forcking in awesomeness, right?"

    "I''m not that superficial," she replied.

    Shui Xian tsked, "If I remember correctly, you''re the same person who decided to marry me just for my face."

    "I love that face of yours," was her argument. "What''s wrong with that? It just shows I''m sincere. If not your face, should I listen to your nonsense of discrediting yourself on our first meeting? If I had fallen for that, do you realize what''d be the result? There be no marriage between us. And you''d still be a single dog!"

    Shui Xian gaped as he lifted his head and blinked at her in disbelief. Did she just actually say that? More than his surprise, he was amused and burst outughing. It wasn''t really funny. Not to the point that Shui Xianughed himself to tears.

    Holding her face in his hands, he said, "How is that possible? Even after so many detours, didn''t we still end up together? It means you were never supposed to fall for my stupid words."

    Raelle wiped his tears and said, "If you want to cry, you just cry. Why find excuses to shed tears? I think you must be hurting very much right now." Shui Xian felt her soft fingers brushing against his face as she continued, "The past two days had been the worst for you. Starting from my miscarriage, everything is spiraling out of your control."

    Shui Xian buried his face in her hand and kissed her palm as he said, "Everything is really spiraling out of my control. I almost lost you. Then Tang Hebe''s memory loss. I even have to learn that whatever my sister suffered back then was just because of a woman''s obsession with me. Why did my sister have to suffer because of me? And now, everything with the Tang family and the Qian family... Everything is falling down like dominos. I don''t know what to do."

    Raelle put her forehead against his and said, "Even if everything falls like dominos, I''ll still stand tall. Even if the sky is falling down, trust me, I can hold up the sky for you. The past is not in my control and I never think about the future. But our present, I''ll do everything to keep it safe." After all, Raelle still believed more in her abilities. She definitely won''t let anyone hurt someone who mattered so much to her. Especially when that someone was Shui Xian.

    Shui Xian smiled through his tears and said, "You like saying I''m the sweet-talker. I think you''re the one who really knows how to talk." Because whatever she said was enough to warm his heart and made him believe that as long as she was around, everything will be fine. And perhaps, that was true as well.

    "Oh, isn''t it because I''m a good learner?" was her response. "I told you. I''m a fast learner and a very diligent one as well. It seems your sweet mouth is also rubbing off on me now."

    Shui Xian chuckled at that and wiped his tears.

 Chapter 745 IQ Drop

    <h4>Chapter 745 IQ Drop</h4>

    "Since you already know I like your face, you should also know that I like this face, even more, when there is a smile on it," said Raelle. "So, who asked you to show me these tears?"

    "You mean my tears are ugly?" asked Shui Xian.

    "I didn''t say that," she said. "But is it okay for such a handsome man to cry like this?"

    "Just a moment ago, you said I can cry," he reminded her.

    "I did?" she asked and he nodded. "Maybe my brain had a short circuit."

    Shui Xian was amused by her words and kissed her forehead. "Baby, I love you."

    Raelle didn''t understand his thinking process. Why did he suddenly dere his love?

    "I know," she told him.

    "My dear wife, I really love you."

    "I know," she said again. "You just said that."

    Shui Xian kissed her eyes, her eyebrows, and the tip of her nose, and pressed his lips against her, "Raelle, I really really love you!"

    This time, for some inexplicable reason, Raelle couldn''t reply with the same words as she always. She didn''t know why but she just looked into his eyes and stayed quiet. His eyes only had her. She could see herself reflected clearly in his clear orbs but it was that sudden thought in her mind that stopped her from speaking. It was the thought of how there was only her in his eyes.

    The eyes are the window to one''s heart.

    Of course, she had read it. To understand human emotions, she had to pay more attention to people''s eyes rather than their facial expressions because some people are just good actors. But eyes... They hardly lie.

    So, if Raelle brought her knowledge into this moment, she could clearly see that she was all he had not just in his eyes but also in his heart. And his heart was currently so full of her that there was no ce for anyone else.

    Her lips parted but before she could say anything, he said, "I know, you love me too."

    "I didn''t even say anything," she said, looking at his smug expressions.

    "You don''t have to," was his reply. "Even without words, I can hear everything now. Especially, I can hear the sound of your heart."

    "So, you''re saying, my heart is speaking to you?" she asked.

    "Yes," he answered keeping a straight face.

    "What can you understand from that ''thump-thump'' sound?" she asked very seriously.

    "What ''thump-thump''? It''s clearly screaming, ''Xian, I love you!'' with every beat," he didn''t even feel ashamed talking this nonsense after shedding ugly tears before her. Who cared about his face before her? That''s his own wife! If he had to keep a face before her, it''d be too tiring. He''d rather just let her see all his ugly sides.

    Raelle being Raelle put her hand on her chest and fell into deep thought. Then she pressed the button to call a nurse and asked her, "Can I get a stethoscope?"

    Even Shui Xian was taken aback by that question much less the poor nurse who ran in thinking something was wrong with the patient. And knowing the identity of the patient, the nurse was even more scared. But hearing that question, she was confused.

    But who made Raelle an ancestor to these poor hospital staff? She could only listen to her and brought a stethoscope to her. Who cared if Raelle''s query was strange?

    They had strict orders from the Dean of the hospital to take care of Raelle. After all, the hospital Dean said Raelle was their family''s child. How could anyone neglect even her willful thoughts?

    And in this way, Raelle got the stethoscope and very seriously tried to listen to her heartbeat. She bet it sounded just ''thump-thump''. Why did he say that it sounded like ''Xian, I love you!''? Thinking to herself, she put it against Shui Xian''s heart, and for some bizarre reason, she had an illusion that she seemed to hear ''I love you'' with each heartbeat. What kind of sorcery is that?!

    Shui Xian just silently let her be and watched her with keen interest.

    Smiling to himself, he asked, "So, did you hear the sound of my heart?"

    "I did," she answered as she put the stethoscope aside, seriously thinking about the sorcery she just encountered. She was sure this was sorcery or else, science definitely can''t exin something like this. Or maybe, she is also wearing a filter on her eyes and ears now. So everything rted to Shui Xian seems different to her.

    Wait! If it is like that, doesn''t that mean she really loves him?

    Love....

    Hmm... That''s worth pondering over now.

    Shui Xian pinched her nose, "My adorable little wife, stop making that face. I can''t resist it."

    "What face?" she asked.

    "That adorable thinking face you just had," he answered.

    "I think I looked the same," she said righteously. "It''s your eyes that have problems. You find me adorable all the time. You need an eye doctor now."

    "Nope," he shamelessly stuck to her. "I don''t need a doctor. Even if I need someone to fix me that''s you. All I need is you."

    "No, all you need is an excuse to stick to me," she said.

    Shui Xian grinned at that, "Wow! I''m exposed so soon. As expected of my smart wife. You can really see through all my intentions."

    "It''s not like you''re trying to hide your intentions," she mentioned. "All your thoughts are written on your face."

    "Even if all my thoughts are written on my face, only you can read those thoughts," he said. "After all, only you can understand thenguage of my heart."

    "I can?" she asked.

    He nodded solemnly. "Didn''t you just listen to my heartbeat? You definitely understood it."

    Obviously, Raelle couldn''t deny that. Even if it was her illusion or sorcery, she really seemed to understand his heartnguage. What the hell was that?! Who would exin it to her?

    Was her IQ also dropping because of love?

    How scary!

 Chapter 746 Confused Identity

    <h4>Chapter 746 Confused Identity</h4>

    To be very honest, this was a crisis moment for Raelle. Her IQ had always been something people talked about with envy. How could she ept that now because of a certain emotion called love, her IQ was taking a plunge as the stocks did in the downtrend period?

    The mental graph of her IQ wasn''t looking optimistic with that red line of her IQ taking a sharp turn down!

    It''s more worrisome than the market crash!

    And at the end of the day, she was still the same person who wasn''t able to understand love all that much. But even without her understanding, this emotion was already attacking her IQ.

    Shui Xian pinched her chin, "What are you thinking about now?"

    "Do you think my IQ is declining?" she asked.

    Shui Xian was certainly not expecting to hear such a question from her but he still honestly replied, "How is that possible? I''m the one with the low IQ here."

    "Yes, your IQ is more questionable than mine," was what she said with a straight face leaving no face for her dearly beloved husband.

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched when he heard that and rubbed his nose before saying, "Is it okay for you to be so disdainful towards your husband''s IQ?"

    "Who said I disdain your IQ?" she questioned. "But that doesn''t mean, I won''t speak the truth to you. A rtionship is always built on honesty. And one first has to be honest with oneself. I can''t possibly deceive myself now." Patting his head softly, she added, "Don''t worry. I definitely have no problem with your IQ. After all, I''m all for that face of yours."

    Shui Xian was finding it difficult to exin his feelings right now.

    Forget it! As long as she was happy and satisfied with him, who cared about his IQ? Or the fact that she was in this rtionship for his face. Even though he knew that wasn''t all of it. But he didn''t mind just taking her words for it anyway.

    Raelle felt quite satisfied with herself knowing she managed to distract him from whatever was running through his mind. He was an overthinker and there was no helping it. As long as she managed to help hime out of his own mind, that was fine. After all, a person''s mind was like a vortex. It really had the ability to make people lose themselves.

    Even she''d be helpless if he really got stuck in that vortex. And she didn''t want that. Right now, she needed him. She needed her husband to be with him. How else was she supposed to fill the emptiness that their child left within her?

    Mu Chenyan was right, Raelle did notice the way Shui Koshing stopped Mu Chenyan from continuing. How could it escape her eyes? But she didn''t point it out for Shui Xian''s sake. She knew there was only so much he was able to handle right now. And she didn''t want to add more to it.

    However, that didn''t mean she''ll let it go either.

    If the matter involved Shui Xian which she was certain that it did, then she had to know. If there was something hidden in the dark that could hurt him, she had to remove that danger. Even if that danger was just a secret lurking in the past. She had to make sure it didn''t hurt Shui Xian.

    But the thing was, Raelle never had the habit of lying. She didn''t even know how to lie. If she figured out the truth which couldn''t stay hidden from her, then was she supposed to tell Shui Xian or not? That was a dilemma. How to solve it?

    Shui Xian poked her forehead, "Where are you lost?"

    "What? Did you say something?" asked Raelle.

    "I said, I couldn''t find time to cook for you," said Shui Xian. "So, let''s wait until you''re discharged and we go home. I''ll take care of everything once we''re home. Right now, I can''t bring myself to leave you here alone and go home."

    "It''s okay, I can wait," replied Raelle. "In fact, we can get discharged right now."

    "Don''t even think about it," was his stern response. He was definitely not willing to listen to her suggestions especially when it came to her health. He didn''t want to take any chances.

    "By the way, has Tang Hebe ever told you that she hated me?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian was taken aback and frowned, "What? Who is she to hate my wife?"

    Raelle shook her head, "Don''t get so excited. She doesn''t hate your wife, Raelle. She just hated Raelle Xiang." Shui Xian frowned at those words while she calmly went on, "In fact, the Tang Hebe I met didn''t have such feelings. It''s the one with amnesia who seems to hate me. The question is why?"

    Shui Xian also fell into thought at her question. Not even for a second did he question the authenticity of Raelle''s words. How was it possible for his wife to have wrong observations?

    "But back then, did she even know you?" asked Shui Xian. "Even I didn''t know you back then."

    "That''s what I want to know," she told him. "How did she know me? When I didn''t even meet her once, how did she develop that hatred?"

    "I think only she can answer that question," was his response. "Do you want to ask?"

    Raelle pondered over it before saying, "I''ll ask once she gets her memory back. Before that, asking her anything is pointless. I don''t wanna waste time on someone who is confused about her own identity."

    "Huh?" Shui Xian raised his brow at her. "She is confused about her own identity? Doesn''t she know who she is?"

    "She has the wishful thinking that she is still Mrs. Shui," said Raelle. "Doesn''t that mean she is confused about her identity?"

    Shui Xian pursed his lips to hold back hisughter. How could he not want tough? She was being so obvious about her dislike towards the fact that someone was coveting her status as his wife. Aiyo! Why is she so cute?!

 Chapter 747 Retribution

    <h4>Chapter 747 Retribution</h4>

    "I don''t know about the rest but I''m really happy," said Shui Xian.

    "To see your ex-wife?"

    Shui Xian shook his hands, "No way. I am happy to see how my dear wife is so jealous and not even hiding her jealousy."

    Raelle didn''t deny his words at all. "So, that''s what jealously feels like."

    "What does it feel like?" asked Shui Xian curiously.

    "Wanting to tear her apart?" answered Raelle.

    Shui Xian chuckled, "Oh, that''s brutal."

    "Who said I was a nice person," she said. "The closest person to a wife is her husband. I''m definitely not okay with anyone coveting what''s mine. Especially, my husband is off-limits. I don''t mind even poking her eyes out if she dared to look at my husband twice."

    Shui Xian smiled gently at her, "As if you have to worry about any of that. I am definitely yours."

    "And it should be like that since I don''t like sharing my things," reminded Raelle. "When she first called you Ah-Xian, all I thought about was I should have listened to your mother."

    "What did you just say? Listen to my mother?" asked Shui Xian. "Now, how about you tell me, what my mother was actually up to?"

    Raelle took a pause before telling him...

    ~~~

    Back then, Raelle was just thirteen. Qian Yin had been staying at their manor for days but Raelle had no interaction with her at all. After all, even back then Raelle was a very busy person. On one weekend, she ran into Qian Yin in the garden.

    "Raelle!" Qian Yin called out to her to get her attention.

    Raelle stopped in her track and looked toward that woman who was smiling at her gently. Now, if Raelle was being honest, the only reason Raelle walked over to her was that she never disrespected elders. Also, considering the fact that Qian Yin was a guest at their home, Raelle couldn''t ignore her even if she wanted to. The good thing was that Qian Yin was a beautiful woman and Raelle always liked beautiful things.

    "Yes!"

    "Why don''t you sit with auntie for a while?" suggested Qian Yin.

    Raelle looked at the table that was littered with jewelry designs. She took a seat and closed the book in her hand to ce it on herp. She nced at Qian Yin carefully and asked, "I have a question."

    "Go ahead, sweetie!" said Qian Yin in a sweet voice.

    "You''re Opa''s guest or Yanyan''s?" she asked bluntly.

    Qian Yin''s smile didn''t falter as she replied, "I think I''m Elder Xiang''s guest. Chenyan and I aren''t that close." Raelle nodded while Qian Yin asked, "Why? Does it matter?"

    Raelle shook her head, "Not really. At the end of the day, you''re our Xiang family''s guest."

    Qian Yin''s smile deepened when she heard that.

    "You look lost," Raelle pointed out even though Qian Yin''s smile hadn''t disappeared even for a second.

    Qian Yin was surprised to see how she picked that up so easily. But thinking about what she already knew about Raelle, she wasn''t all that surprised either.

    "Yanyan said, you''re the guest who is hiding at home. As for what you''re hiding from, only you can answer," said Raelle. "You definitely don''t look like a refugee. So, I''m gonna make a bold guess. You''re running from yourself."

    Qian Yin took a deep breath and stared into Raelle''s eyes, trying to figure out the girl before her. But as she had noticed in the past few weeks of her stay at the Xian Mansion. Raelle still had no expression on her face. There was only nkness in her eyes. Aplete nkess that might even scare people off. After all, Raelle was too young to have such an expression on her face.

    Qian Yin still continued to look into Raelle''s eyes to see what was behind that nkness. Sadly, she couldn''t see anything. Sighing to herself she told Raelle, "I am having a fight with my son. So, that''s why I''m taking a break here. Want to hide and think about everything clearly."

    She didn''t mind talking about this with a girl who was even younger than her own son. How could she mind it? She felt like she could talk to Raelle about this and she also felt like Raelle would understand her well as well. It couldn''t be helped. Raelle just gave off a very reassuring feeling to her and she looked too mature for her age. At least, her mental age was not as small as her physical age.

    "So, did you thought everything through?" asked Raelle.

    "No," replied Qian Yin. "I still think I''m right and he is just being stubborn because of his age. He can''t seem to see the big picture."

    "Maybe that''s what he is thinking as well," was Raelle''s response. "You should know kids also think their parents are old fashioned and fastidious. They can''t understand their thinking. You think he is being stubborn and he thinks you''re being stubborn. I don''t know anything but I still would say, you are both being stubborn! But that''s not the real question right now. The question is which one of you is gonna take a step back first?"

    "Who is gonna take the first step back?" Repeated Qian Yin to herself thoughtfully.

    "Unless you''re willing to give up on your son, you''ll have to take a step back," said Raelle. "No, I should say you both should take a step back for the family. At the end of the day, family is what matters the most."

    Qian Yin continued to stare at her with interest. She wanted to ask her why she was talking like an old mother? Family matters the most. Did youngsters even think about family these days? Even she didn''t think about family back then. All she thought about was her own happiness. And now, all her son was thinking about was also his own happiness. Maybe this was her retribution for what she did to her family back then.

    *To be continued*

 Chapter 748 One Day & The Other

    <h4>Chapter 748 One Day & The Other</h4>

    *shback Continued*

    For someone like Raelle, her thoughts were very clear. To her family was indeed the most important. This idea was deeply rooted in her heart and soul. And perhaps, that''s why she had always been an obedient child. If her actions or ideas would hurt her family, she''d rather crush those ideas. But she''d never think about hurting her family.

    "I think it''s my retribution," whispered Qian Yin ruefully.

    "Retribution?" repeated Raelle who heard her whispered words.

    Qian Yin nodded her head, "When I was my son''s age, I also wanted to go against them. I fought hard not even realizing that I was hurting them. I left them wounded." She sighed, "Now, my son is doing the same thing to me."

    "If you think it''s a retribution, it is a retribution," said Raelle. "After all, we often forget that one day we are the children, and the next day, we can be standing in the position of a parent. Because that''s how the cycle of life works. What goes around,es around."

    Qian Yin''s eyes looking at Raelle became brighter as she said, "I think I like you even more than I did a few minutes ago."

    Raelle stayed silent in response and Qian Yin didn''t think much about her silence. She already heard about how Raelle treasured her words like gold. But Qian Yin had to agree, Raelle should indeed treasure her words like gold. Because everything she said was actually even more precious than gold.

    What a treasure child!

    These were the thoughts of Qian Yin as she twirled the drawing pencil in her hand before she concentrated back on the design in her hand.

    "What are you designing?" asked Raelle.

    "I am designing wedding rings," she told her. Looking into Raelle''s eyes she went, "I love to design wedding rings."

    "Why?"

    Qian Yin had a thoughtful look before saying, "Maybe because the meaning behind them is very beautiful?" Seeing Raelle''s face, she exined, "It''s like a promise of a lifetime. At first nce, even a stranger knows you belong to someone. Isn''t that interesting?"

    "Interesting?" repeated Raelle before she shook her head. "Not at all."

    "No?" asked Qian Yin in surprise. "Why not?"

    "Because you have no guarantee of a lifetime," answered Raelle. "A ring on your finger can also be a handcuff. It can also shackle you. Life isn''t a walk in a park wherever you seeughter around you. Life is a journey on unknown terrain. Sometimes you have to pass through the dusty roads, and sometimes you have to take a rocky hike. Oftentimes, you find yourself in a dark forest and other times, you can also be in the scorching desert."

    Qian Yin felt like there was profound meaning behind that, so asked, "Exactly, what are you trying to tell me?"

    "You''re worried about your son''s future," started Raelle. "Have you thought about his present?"

    Qian Yin was startled by her question.

    "You think your choices can save his future, but who will guarantee that?" was her question. "But in the worry of an unknown future, you''re actually ruining the present? Is it really worth it?"

    Qian Yin thought about it for a while in silence and looked lost, "I don''t know. I really don''t know if it''s worth it or not. Maybe it really isn''t worth it. But what should I do? I don''t want him to go through the same pain that I did? I don''t want him to feel the guilt that gnaws at your insides every second of the day. Even when you''re happy, you feel like a sinner."

    "Auntie, you think you''re a sinner?" asked Raelle. "You think you''ve wronged someone in life?"

    "The only people I have wronged in my life are my family," she answered.

    "But that path of the sinner, you chose it yourself," reminded Raelle. "Your family must have also wanted to stop you. But you also continued to walk on the path of your choice. No matter which destination you came to, or whatever wall you ended up hitting, it was your own choice." She took a pause when she noticed the way Qian Yin''s eyes turned red slightly and brimming with tears but she didn''t stop and continued, "As a parent, you always want the best for your child. But as a parent, you can''t write your child''s destiny. If he is meant to get hurt. You can do nothing about that. All you can do is, stay with him. Even if he gets hurt in the future, at least, he''ll have his parents'' support."

    Qian Yin''s tears slid down her cheeks and she raised her hand to wipe her tears, "I''m sorry. It''s so embarrassing to cry in front of a junior."

    "Who said only children are allowed to cry?" asked Raelle. "Adults are as much human as children are. And sometimes, adults are more sensitive than children. So, I don''t mind. You can cry if you want to."

    Qian Yin wiped her tears and took a deep breath. That tight frown between her brows eased up as well. She felt light andfortable. She didn''t think talking to Raelle would have such an effect.

    As for why Raelle talked so much, it was only because she liked how beautiful Qian Yin was. And seeing that frown that gave off a heavy feeling, she wanted to help ease it up. Even if she wasn''t a nosy person. She was someone who valued perfection. How could she ept that frown on that beautiful face?

    "Let''s have some tea?" suggested Qian Yin. "You sit with auntie for a while more. Auntie has fallen in love with you, child."

    "You do?" asked Raelle. "But we just met. How can you fall in love with someone so fast?"

    "Some destinies are meant to be like that," said Qian Yin. "And oftentimes, we don''t even need reasons to fall in love with someone. We just do."

    And those words reminded Raelle of Hyson, her little tail... Ahem!... Friend! Yes, he was a friend who was running after her from the first time he saw her.

    *To be Continued*

 Chapter 749 [Bonus chapter] Beautiful Smiles

    <h4>Chapter 749 [Bonus chapter] Beautiful Smiles</h4>

    *shback Continued*

    Seeing that Raelle agreed to sit with her for a while longer and have tea, Qian Yin''s face bloomed with a smile once again. And this time, the gloomy feeling around her had dissipated. She looked more spirited and bright.

    Raelle stared at her smile for a while before saying, "Auntie, you have a very beautiful smile."

    Qian Yin was taken aback by herpliment. She had heard plenty of people in her life telling her she was beautiful and her smile was gorgeous. But this was the first time, she felt so good about thispliment.

    "You think so?" she asked.

    Raelle nodded her head, "I have tried for a long time. I can''t seem toe up with such a beautiful smile."

    Qian Yin chuckled at that, "Well, then you''d definitely like my son. His smile is even more beautiful than mine." And her eyes drooped as she recalled how she hadn''t seen her son''s smile for a while now since all they did was arguetely.

    "If I see your son, I''ll tell you if I like his smile or not," said Raelle seriously.

    Qian Yin continued to smile and nodded, "Then I''ll be waiting to hear your opinion. After all, I know you don''t lie." She looked at Raelle''s face and added, "And then if you like him, you can marry him."

    "Child marriage is illegal," was Raelle''s response.

    Qian Yin burst outughing, "Who is asking you to be a child bride?"

    "Well, I''m too young to be married," replied Raelle. "And your son seems eager to get married."

    Qian Yin was stumped. She didn''t even mention the real details but it seemed Raelle picked up the matter. Ah! This child was really too smart. What to do, she wanted this daughter-inw even more now?!

    "What a shame,"mented Qian Yin. "Wait. It seems you''re not against the marriage."

    "Why would I be?" asked Raelle. "Marriage is a part of life. Just because I''m young doesn''t mean I don''t know that. One day I have to get married. And if your son''s looks are even half as gorgeous as yours, I don''t mind having him as a husband as well. But the point here isn''t whether his face is to my liking or not, it''s that he wants to marry someone else."

    "He has lost his mind," muttered Qian Yin. "Forget it. Let''s not talk about him. How about I make wedding rings for you?"

    "I just told you, I''m too young," said Raelle.

    "I know," replied Qian Yin. "But you also said, the future is unknown. Since I have my present in my hand, and my inspiration is bursting out, I really want to design a whole set of wedding jewelry for you."

    Raelle didn''t have a habit of asking for things from anyone. She''d get what she wanted on her own. She hardly even asked for things from her Opa or Yanyan. But she couldn''t stop Qian Yin either.

    "Auntie, you''re a good mother," said Raelle.

    Qian Yin looked at Raelle wide-eyed.

    "Trust me, you are," added Raelle. "Even if someone tells you otherwise, you just keep in mind that you''re a good mother."

    Qian Yin so wanted to rub her head and even raised her hand to do so. But at thest moment, she remembered that Raelle didn''t like physical touch. So, she pouted and put her hand down.

    "Now, I know why people say it''s always the ''others'' children who are best,"mented Qian Yin. "Why aren''t you, my child?" She tsked at that, "This is why I wanted to kidnap you into my family as my daughter-inw. But I only have one son." She looked at Raelle and asked, "Do you think it''s toote to strive for another son?"

    "Even if he is born next year, he''ll be fourteen years younger than me," said Raelle.

    "It''s okay. Age is just a number," said Qian Yin.

    "Fourteen years is uneptable," was Raelle''s stance.

    Qian Yin tsked again, "Argh! Why didn''t I just give birth to another son?"

    Raelle knew she was joking but she still found her quite interesting.

    "Why do you want me to be your daughter-inw? I might not even be as good as you think I am."

    "But you are perfect for my son," insisted Qian Yin. "I just know it. Your thoughts are very clear even at this age. My whimsical son needs someone like you."

    They sat together for a while drinking tea and enjoying the snacks that the kitchen staff prepared carefully. Qian Yin found this atmosphere very rxing with a soft breeze blowing.

    She came here to rx in the first ce and she really found that rxation in this ce. It was too peaceful in this mansion. Everything was arranged properly. Everyone worked orderly. And the beautifulndscape design of the garden was also a marvel. This ce was sofortable that she was reluctant to leave but...

    "I''ll be leaving tomorrow," she told Raelle.

    "I thought you''d be staying for a month," replied Raelle since that''s what she heard from Mu Chenyan.

    "That was the n but my husband ising to get me tomorrow," Qian Yin said with a sweet smile on her face. "He is so old and still can''t live without his wife. Tsk. What''s the point of being the Master of the house when he can''t even sleep alone?"

    Although it sounded like aint, it actually had a hint of sweetness.

    "Besides, after talking to you, I think I need to go back and solve everything properly," said Qian Yin. "So, although it''s my regret that you can''t be my daughter-inw, I sincerely wish you find your destined life partner. And I hope he is even more loving than my husband."

    Qian Yin knew that if there was something she never regretted in life, it was the decision to marry Shui Koshing. She really loved that man. Perhaps, not as much as he did. But she really loved him for sure. He was always there when she needed him. And he was the realfort of her life. Her safe ce was always with him. So, she hoped Raelle would find someone like that too.

    Someone who would be able to make her smile beautifully as Qian Yin did.

    *End of shback*

 Chapter 750 Loving Husband

    <h4>Chapter 750 Loving Husband</h4>

    Shui Xian listened to every single word attentively. He had to say, Raelle''s way of recounting an event was almost like she was painting a picture with her words. And he was actually able to imagine the scene vividly in his mind. Even the minor details were very clear in his mind.

    "So, what do you think? I should have taken your mom''s offer?" asked Raelle but found that her husband was lost in his own world. Raelle clicked her fingers before his face to get his attention as she asked, "Are you thinking about your mom?"

    Shui Xian actually shook his head, "No. I''m trying to imagine what a thirteen-year-old Raelle looked like. If she was even half as good as she is now, then I don''t me my mom for insisting on bringing you home as her daughter-inw." He sighed and added, "But really. What if you had epted her offer to be her daughter-inw?"

    "Back then, I had no ce in her family," answered Raelle. "But I didn''t know by the time, I''ll find my ce in her family, she won''t be around to see it."

    Shui Xian''s expression changed when he heard that. He also felt the same way. It seemed it was his mother''s biggest wish to have Raelle as her daughter-inw. But he took too long to bring Raelle home as the daughter-inw of the Shui family. Even his regret was kind of pointless now since his mother was long gone.

    Thinking of something, he asked, "What about your wedding jewelry? Did my mom design it?"

    "I don''t know," Raelle replied. "I never received it. And neither did I hear about it."

    "Knowing my mom, she won''t say things if she didn''t mean it," said Shui Xian. "So, I''m certain she designed it for you. Maybe she didn''t get the chance to give it to you."

    "That''s possible," agreed Raelle. "Anyway, I have to say, she was right."

    "Huh?"

    "She said her son''s smile is more beautiful than hers, I have to agree with that," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian chuckled softly.

    "I can assure you, she loved you very much," added Raelle seriously. "No, I should say she loved her family very much. After everything that happened in her youth, she seemed to cherish her small family even more."

    "I know," he said with a soft smile ying on his lips.

    "Oh, and you have more inmon with your mother than you care to admit," said Raelle. "Your temperament is most like her. If you love something, you don''t want to see anything else besides that love. Even if that love leaves you wounded, you won''t care. But once your heart is closed off, you won''t let the same person enter your heart again."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips because he couldn''t deny her words. He knew that was the truth. He was really simr to his mother. Even their destinies were very simr. They both got hurt by the person they loved the most. The person for whom they were ready to fight against the world. Then his eyes settled on Raelle as he thought about how even after all that hurt, both he and his mother found the person who was willing to cherish them.

    "Do you think your mom didn''t know Tang Mu wasn''t behind the betrayal?" asked Raelle. "At one point, she must have learned it as well. But that truth didn''t change her decision. She didn''t regret opening her heart to B¨¤."

    "It''s sometimes easy to fall in love, wife," said Shui Xian. "But falling out of love doesn''t happen in a blink of an eye. It takes longer than we think. And once we are able to fall out of love with that person, we don''t see the point why we should hurt ourselves by going the same route again."

    By saying this, he wanted to let her know that no matter how much he loved Tang Hebe, it didn''t matter now. She was his first love which ended long ago. He had every right to move on and no one could condemn him for not looking back. So what if Tang Hebe had a memory loss? Why should he suffer? He wasn''t willing to act with her from the beginning.

    You can''t change your mistakes just because you lost your memory and have no recollection of those mistakes. Because if Raelle wasn''t holding him back, Shui Xian didn''t mind reminding Tang Hebe every single way she stabbed his heart. He didn''t even want to care about her anymore.

    But after learning about everything, he really wanted to ask Tang Hebe why she did what she did to him. Was he also just a chess piece in the game of revenge that had been going on for the past four generations? And if he was? Then was his first love just a joke?

    "Your mom said, ''I wish you find a loving husband,'' before she left," said Raelle. "I think her wish came true. But it''s ironic that the loving husband is also her son." Even Raelle with her big brain would have never expected the cycle of life to work in this unexpected way. Who knew she''d still get married to Shui Xian even though it seemed impossible back then?

    Shui Xian rubbed her head, "Oh, this husband still has more love to shower on you. You have seen nothing yet, sweetheart." He yed with her fingers as he said, "I think my mom would be happy wherever she is. Seeing that I married the girl she loved so much." He looked into her eyes and asked, "How about we go to see her as well? It seems I never took you to see her after marriage."

    "Okay," she agreed without any hesitation. Although she didn''t go to cemeteries, she didn''t mind going to see her mother-inw. As a daughter-inw, she should go to pay respects. Besides, she was unusually interested in her mother-inw now. Or more precisely, in learning what really happened after Qian Yin came back from Raelle''s family home.

 Chapter 751 Lose His Job

    <h4>Chapter 751 Lose His Job</h4>

    Hearing her name, Mu Chenyan turned her head, and then she paused. She didn''t expect to see people when she was just minding her own business. Although she had no bad blood with these people, if she could, she''d still like to not see them ever again.

    "It''s really you," said the woman who called her. The woman was none other than, Mrs. Gu whom Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin met at the Song family banquet. But right now, she looked excited and a little ufortable at seeing Mu Chenyan.

    Mu Chenyan looked at Mrs. Gu whose name was Gong Quibai. Once upon a time, she used to call her Xiao Bai very intimately. But today, Mu Chenyan greeted her, "Hello, Mrs. Gu! Didn''t expect to see you here." Seeing the white coat that Gong Quibai wore, Mu Chenyan changed her words, "Or, I should call you, Dr. Gu?"

    It wasn''t surprising that Gong Quibai was working as a doctor. After all, they all went to the same medical college back then. Just because Mu Chenyan was the oddball who didn''t continue her studies, didn''t mean others won''t work hard to achieve their dreams. But Mu Chenyan didn''t expect her luck to be so bad that Gong Quibai was actually working at this hospital.

    Gong Quibai couldn''t seem to find words for a moment when she heard how distant Mu Chenyan sounded right now. It reminded her of what Song Xin''ai told her at the banquet that Mu Chenyan knew everything. So, even if Gong Quibai pretended to be innocent, she couldn''t do so in front of Mu Chenyan.

    "What are you doing here?" asked Gong Quibai trying to suppress her unease.

    "Visiting a patient," replied Mu Chenyan inly. She had no reason to hide it at all.

    "Oh," responded Gong Quibai. "Why don''t you tell me which room the patient is in? I''ll talk to the attending doctor and..." She went on and on but Mu Chenyan mostly didn''t pay attention. Why did she need anyone else''s help?

    She could see that Gong Quibai sincerely wanted to do something for her right now. Probably, her guilty conscience had been bothering her for years. So, she thought doing something for Mu Chenyan might help her.

    But Mu Chenyan didn''t care. Although Mu Chenyan wasn''t a doctor, she believed she still had more say in this hospital than Gong Quibai. After all, the hospital belonged to the Gou family which was Mu Chenyan''s mother''s family. In other words, it was also Mu Chenyan''s family no matter how she ran from them.

    "You don''t have to," replied Mu Chenyan calmly. "Don''t worry. I don''t need help."

    She really wanted to leave but Gong Quibai didn''t seem to get the hint. Or maybe she did, she just didn''t care.

    "Are you still upset?" asked Gong Quibai. "I... I can exin."

    Mu Chenyan gave her signature smirk that Gong Quibai was very familiar with. After all, when they met at the freshmen party, Mu Chenyan was wearing the same yful smirk and looked more like a hooligan than a medical student. But even so, she was still the center of attention.

    Gong Quibai was actually startled as Mu Chenyan''s image today ovepped in her mind with the time they met for the first time. The most startling thing was that Mu Chenyan looked exactly like she did back then. Yes, her features were more mature now and she gave off a noble air but the rest was the same. For a moment, it was hard for her to believe that decades had gone by since then.

    "I don''t know what you''re talking about," said Mu Chenyan. "But I can assure you, I''m not upset. Not at all."

    Gong Quibai licked her lips and suggested, "Then how about we find a ce to sit down and catch up."

    "I don''t think you and I have anything to catch up on," replied Mu Chenyan.

    "Quibai!"

    They both heard a voice and looked over. The man came over, panting. "I''m sorry. The surgery took a while. Now, I''m free. Let''s have lunch." Noticing there was someone else standing beside his wife, the man shifted his eyes and was stunned, "Chenyan."

    "Hello, Gu Ye! We meet again," said Mu Chenyan with a big smile on her face.

    "What a surprise!" said Gu Ye once he came back to himself. "What are you doing here?"

    "Visiting a patient," Mu Chenyan''s reply to him was exactly the same.

    "Oh, is it your family? Is everything okay? Can I help?" asked Gu Ye immediately following in the same track as his wife did earlier.

    Mu Chenyan almostughed out loud at that, "You both are really a good match. Even your thinking is exactly the same. But as I told your wife, I don''t need help. I think I can manage."

    "I know you''re a capable person," said Gu Ye seriously. "But there is no harm in asking for help. Especially between friends."

    "Friends..." repeated Mu Chenyan with a meaningful tone. Shaking her head, she said, "If it came to the point I need your help, I''ll definitely ask."

    She felt her phone vibrating and took it out to see the text message from her Uncle.

    [Uncle Dongdong: Do you have time to see your poor uncle?]

    Mu Chenyan rolled her eyes before replying, [Poor? Uncle, don''t try to sell this pitiful act. It won''t work on me.]

    [Uncle Dongdong: Right, our Chenyan was never apassionate person. Anyway,e to see me.]

    Mu Chenyan sighed, [Noting. Very busy.]

    Someone suddenly grabbed her shoulder from behind and then she heard that same aged voice of her uncle, "I say, you kiddo, what are you busy with? Standing in the same hospital, you aren''ting to see me? Can you stop being so unruly?"

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her nose, "If I stopped being unruly, your physician will lose his job."

    "Huh?" Professor Gou frowned in confusion when he heard that.

    "I mean if I won''t make your blood pressure shoot, your physician is bound to lose his job, no?"

 Chapter 752 Exclusive Scene

    <h4>Chapter 752 Exclusive Scene</h4>

    "Pfft!"

    Mu Chenyan noticed how her uncle''s lips were twitching because of her words while Gu Ye and Gong Quibai looked stunned seeing this exchange before them. So, whoughed?

    She turned her head and looked at a young boyughing while clutching his stomach.

    "Xiao Liang, stopughing!" said Uncle Gou as he looked at the young boy.

    "Yes, Grandpa," the boy wiped the tears that came out of his eyes fromughing so hard and stood there obediently.

    Uncle Gou grasped Mu Chenyan''s ear, "This never-ending nonsense of yours... I wonder how Brother Tianyi even manages to get along with you?"

    Mu Chenyan grinned at him, "Our family''s Elder Xiang had always been amazing. It''s very easy to get along with him."

    Uncle Gou shook his head at this niece of his. "Xiao Liang, don''t just stand there. Come here and greet your aunt."

    The boy who was called Xiao Liang walked over and smiled at Mu Chenyan, "Hello, Aunt!"

    "You''ve grown up, kid," said Mu Chenyan. "I heard you are also thrown into the medical school."

    Uncle Gou gave her a displeased look, "What do you mean by thrown into the medical school? Just because you didn''t want to be a doctor, you think others don''t want to either?"

    Mu Chenyan yawned at his words, "Let''s not start the lecture again."

    Uncle Gou wanted to say something but he noticed the other two people and said, "Oh, it''s Dr. Gu and Dr. Gong." As if recalling something, he added, "Oh, you both were our Chenyan''s ssmates." And then he looked at Mu Chenyan again, "Look at them. They are serving the country now. What are you doing?"

    "Bringing patients to your hospital?" she responded making Xiao Liangugh once again.

    Uncle Gou didn''t know what to say to this niece. She was the brightest star in their family and yet, she wasn''t motivated enough. He was certain that if she hadn''t left, she''d have been one of the top surgeons in the country. No, perhaps, she''d have been one of the best in the world. But apparently, her interests were not right.

    "Let''s be serious for a moment," said Uncle Gou. "Something so serious happened with Raelle and you didn''t even bother looking for me?"

    "Why should I?" retorted Mu Chenyan. "I''m still very capable, you know."

    "Yes, yes, you''re very capable," said Uncle Gou. "But if a daughter of our family has an ident, you should let us know."

    "Your family?" Mu Chenyan raised her brow at him. "No! She is my family."

    "Aren''t you my niece?" questioned Uncle Gou. "And if Raelle is your family, it makes her our family as well."

    "It doesn''t work that way, Uncle," retorted Mu Chenyan.

    Although Gu Ye being Mu Chenyan''s close friend knew her rtionship with the Xiang family, he never knew how she was rted to the Gou family as well. Mostly because Mu Chenyan never used the name of her family to solve her troubles. She really thought she was a superwoman. She could handle everything on her own.

    And most of the time, she was actually able to do so as well.

    Now, learning that she was rted to the Gou family, Gong Quibai was momentarily stunned. She had been working in this hospital for so long, how could she not know the prestige of the Gou family that had been medical practitioners for generations?

    Gong Quibai looked at Mu Chenyan who looked carefree as usual. She could joke around and no one would say anything to her.

    Just a moment ago, she wanted to do something for Mu Chenyan by using her authority as the doctor in this hospital. But it was just as Mu Chenyan had said, she didn''t need their help at all. After all, the hospital belonged to her family. Perhaps, Mu Chenyan even had more say in this hospital than they did even after working here for years.

    "Aunt!" called out Xiao Liang. "Why don''t youe home for a meal?"

    Mu Chenyan looked at the boy and said, "I''m very busy, kid."

    "Oh," Xiao Liang''s lips turned down.

    "How can you refuse a kid like this?"

    Hearing the question from Uncle Gou and asked, "I don''t even mind saying no to you. Why can''t I say no to him?" She took a pause and added, "I really have no time these days, my dear Uncle Dongdong. Don''t be mad." She even ticked his chin like he was a kid she was trying to cate.

    Xiao Liang pursed his lips. He had never seen his grandfather being treated like this by anyone. No wonder his father always said, only their Aunt Chenyan can be a match for their grandfather. He so wanted to record this scene and share it in his cousin''s group chat. But then again, he decided against it.

    Only he should get to see this exclusive scene.

    "What are you busy with?" asked Uncle Gou.

    "If I tell you, your blood pressure is gonna shoot again," said Mu Chenyan. "So, it''s better I don''t tell you."

    Just that was enough to tell him that she was up to no good. But then again, she had never been up to any good in life. And here he thought she became sensible since she became the guardian of Raelle. He was really overthinking, eh!

    "Xiao Liang, youe over to my ce," said Mu Chenyan to Xiao Liang. "Although we don''t have anyone of your age at our ce, you''ll still have a good time. I promise."

    Xiao Liang was immediately happy and asked, "Then Aunt, when should Ie?"

    "Anytime," answered Mu Chenyan. "Whenever you''re free."

    "I''ll soon have summer vacation," announced Xiao Liang. "I''lle to see you. And when I do, can you y basketball with me?" Even if he rarely saw this aunt, he still couldn''t forget her. She was a legend in the whole family. Everyone in the younger generation looked up to her.

    Mu Chenyan rubbed his head, "Okay. I''ll see how much you practiced in these years."

    "I won''t disappoint you," said Xiao Liang.

 Chapter 753 Little Angels

    Chapter 753 Little AngelsˇˇˇˇHyson was enjoying his lunch all alone. No, actually he had two beauties sitting with him but his attention was grabbed by the delicious food in front of him. It can''t be helped, to him, the food was more attractive than these two beauties.

    Although Amiah was hesitant at first, she still ate with gusto once she saw how Hyson was enjoying the food. As for Cloe, she had no reservation at all.

    "Hyson, you are eating as if you hadn''t had food in days," joked Cloe.

    "It''s been a while since I had a meal prepared by Yanyan," he answered. "Although I ate the homemade meal yesterday, it didn''t have the taste I was looking for."

    "Tsk. How can you even recognize the taste?" questioned Cloe.

    "I just know," he said. "I can tell you if the food is made by my mum or by Yanyan or someone else. Every person has different tastes in their hands. It''s just that Yanyan''s food is still the best."

    "Your mum will be upset to hear that," said Cloe.

    "Nah. I told you before, she already knows," answered Hyson. "By the way, it''s gonna be tough work for you in theing days."

    Cloe shrugged, "It doesn''t matter. I can manage. As long as someone is willing to keep Chief on the bed to rest, I''m willing to work."

    "Don''t worry, I don''t think Xian Ge will let her move," said Hyson.

    "I hope so," said Cloe.

    "You should stop worrying about Ellie," Hyson told her. "She isn''t that easy to break."

    "I know my Chief," she said. "But I also know, she isn''t unbreakable. This incident has a huge impact on her. It''s just that she isn''t used to expressing herself."

    "The right thing to say is, she doesn''t know how to express herself," Hyson sighed to himself. "But still, she is fine. I can assure you. Don''t just think about her. We wouldn''t want you to fall sick."

    Cloe smiled warmly at him. "Even if I don''t take care of myself. I know I have people now who will look out for me."

    "Yes, you should keep that in mind," said Hyson.

    Cloe noticed how silent Amiah was and asked, "So, Director Jade, how long are you staying?"

    "For a week or so," answered Amiah.

    "Thank you foring," said Cloe.

    Amiah was surprised to hear that from Cloe. "Keeping our disagreements aside, she is still my sister-inw. As long as she is important to my brother, I can''t really hate her."

    "Ah, you aren''t that hopeless," muttered Cloe. "That''s good to know."

    "Director, you should go back and rest," said Hyson. "It seems you need some time to yourself."

    "How are you able to tell that I need some time to myself?" questioned Amiah.

    "Because I have good eyesight!" He was really tired of telling the same thing to everyely.

    *Ring!*

    Cloe took out her phone and excused herself to walk to a side. "Kun!" she called out once she picked up the phone.

    "Hi, girlfriend! How are you?" asked Cui Xukun.

    Cloe rolled her eyes at that, "You just dropped me at the hospital this morning. Of course, I am fine."

    "You sure?" asked Cui Xukun.

    "Yes," she replied.

    "And are you done visiting people? Should Ie to pick you up?"

    "There is no need," said Cloe. "I can go back on my own."

    "How is that possible?" Cui Xukun sounded pleased as he said, "Give this boyfriend the honor to pick his girlfriend up."

    "Oh?" responded Cloe. "Why? Don''t want to be awyer anymore? So, you''ve decided to be my personal chauffer now?"

    "I don''t mind," he replied. "I really don''t mind. I''d love to be your personal driver. You just say the word."

    "You really should stop with this nonsense," she said. "When I told you toe inside, you didn''t. You just dropped me here and left. Why? Didn''t want to face your first love?"

    Cui Xukun turned serious, "It''s not that. I felt like I won''t be able to act before her. So, it''s better to stay away from her. Besides, we hadn''t seen each other for a decade now. We are just familiar strangers at this point. Even if she was my first love, I am not able to recognize her anymore."

    "Uncle, are you talking to your girlfriend?"

    Cui Xukun looked at his niece and nephew who were blinking at him, waiting for his answer and he sighed, "Yes. It''s Cloe. My girlfriend."

    They pulled him down making him crouch before them as they spoke into the receiver of the phone, "Sister, sister, can youe to y with us?"

    "No, she can''t," refused Cui Xukun even before Cloe could say anything in response.

    "We aren''t asking you, Uncle," said little Sammy. "Sister, or we cane to see you?"

    Cloe''s eyes had a gentle light as she said, "Since you want toe pick me up, just bring them with you. I think I''ll feel better."

    Cui Xukun was stunned before he grinned and agreed. He hung up the phone and looked at his niece and nephew. Kissing their cheeks, he said, "Aiyo! You both are really angels of my life."

    Little Xena rubbed her cheek and pouted, "Uncle, you just called us devils a while ago. How can you change your words so soon?"

    Cui Xukunughed at that and rubbed their heads, "Wasn''t that because you used your mother''s lipstick to ruin my face? Jie is gonna kill me once she knows how I let you ruin her lipstick."

    "Uncle, how about we buy mom a new one before she even knows?" suggested the little devils.

    But thinking about how Cui Xukun would be able to take Cloe out with him, he was more than happy to follow these devils. "Let''s do it. Both of you go and change your clothes. I''ll take you to see your Sister Cloe. No, she is your aunt. Stop calling her sister. I n to marry her!"

    "Once you marry her, we''ll call her aunt," said Little Xena. "For now, she is sister!"

    He was truly helpless before his family''s twins. But who told him to be a doting uncle?

 Chapter 754 Adult World

    Chapter 754 Adult Worldˇˇˇˇ"That was your boyfriend," that sounded like a statement rather than a question. Of course, Hyson didn''t have to ask. The gentleness reflected in Cloe''s eyes was too obvious. "What? He is missing you already?"

    Cloe smiled at him, "He is."

    Hyson looked at her expression of showing off and chuckled, "Well, he should be."

    Cloe''s smile deepened when she heard that and told him, "He said he ising to pick me up."

    Hyson looked at the time and nodded, "Right. You''ve been here for a while. It''s your day off anyway. You should enjoy it while you can. Tomorrow is gonna be a busy day."

    Amiah had already taken her leave while Cloe was talking on the phone. And since they weren''t even close or on good terms, Cloe didn''t ask about her. She helped pack up the food boxes with Hyson and turned to leave.

    "What are you hesitating for?" asked Hyson.

    "Oh, I''m wondering if I should tell Chief that I''m leaving," replied Cloe.

    "There is no need," said Hyson. He didn''t think Raelle even had time for them right now. Even though they took a long time to eat and even sat together for a while, he was still certain that Raelle didn''t have time for them. It wasn''t possible that Raelle just called Mu Chenyan over for lunch.

    There was definitely something behind this and he just needed to mind his business. After all, she asked him to take Amiah and Cloe out.

    "How''s your rtionship with Director Jade?" asked Cloe.

    Hyson fixed his face mask and lowered the tip of his cap as he frowned, "What do you mean?"

    "I mean is she still making things difficult for you?" asked Cloe.

    Hyson shook his head, "No. I''m fine. She is the director, I''m the actor. There is nothing more to it. It''s not like I go out of my way to interact with her. And neither does she. I think we can just continue this way till the shooting ends."

    "And then?"

    Hyson raised his brow at that, "And then what? After that, we go our own way. What else could be there?"

    Cloe recalled the way Amiah continued to stare at Hyson as he ate and her eyes had an obscure guise. She thought of the possibility of overthinking when she heard how Hyson and Amiah rarely had any personal interactions. But she couldn''t disregard what she saw with her own eyes as well.

    Hyson was... Well, Hyson! He obviously could notice everything but he couldn''t see if someone was interested in him. As Hyson''s diehard fan, she had to pay attention to her idol''s love life. For now, the love life was nk and she obviously didn''t see any possibility in the near future. It''s just that, just because Hyson wasn''t interested, it didn''t mean he won''t attract bees and butterflies.

    "Nothing," she replied. "I was just asking. After all, even if she stopped being your director, she''ll still be Shui Xian''s little sister. And since you''re Chief''s little brother, it''s inevitable that you''ll run into her."

    Hyson had a thoughtful look as he also realized this point and said, "Well, since she is Xian Ge''s sister, I''ll reluctantly treat her as an acquaintance."

    "Acquaintance?"

    "Or else?" retorted Hyson. "You don''t expect me to befriend her, right? Having a friend like me is expensive, she can''t afford it!"

    "Right, only Chief can afford it since she is very rich," Cloe beamed with a twinkle in her eyes.

    They were happily chatting when Hyson''s eyes got stuck on Mu Chenyan. No, it was more like his eyes got stuck on her hand that was ruffling the hair of a wild kid! Where did that wild kid evene from?!

    He almost roared right there before he ran over and pulled his Yanyan away from that wild kid. Pulling her behind him, he looked at the wild kid with a vignt appearance.

    Mu Chenyan was surprised to see Hyson suddenly appearing but she was even more taken aback by his behavior. She wanted to ask him what was up when it suddenly clicked. Ah! He was, after all, Raelle''s best friend. How could he be different than her? He was equally possessive of his own people!

    And guess what? Mu Chenyan was added into ''his people''.

    And since she was part of his people, he was like a kitten now whose territory was being eyed. Well, she was supposed to call him a tiger but please, spare Mu Chenyan who really couldn''t bring herself to call him a tiger. He''d always be just a kitten to her.

    "Why are you looking for wild kids outside?" he asked. "Aren''t the babies at home pretty enough? Look at me! I''m so obedient and cute. I''m also very handsome and a nice guy. How can you look at others?"

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips before raising her hand to touch his head but Hyson stepped back.

    "Yoou just touched a wild kid with those paws of yours."

    Mu Chenyanughed out at that and said, "So, you don''t want me to touch you now?"

    Hyson thought about it and felt like it was his own loss. So, he obediently took a step over and let her touch his head. As if she was soothing his ruffled fur, she stroked him while asking, "When are you gonna grow up?"

    "Not so soon," he replied seriously. "Adult world is no fun."

    Mu Chenyan shook her head and told him, "That''s my nephew. His name is Gou Liang. He is younger than you. You can call him Xiao Liang."

    "Why should I call him that?" asked Hyson.

    "Oh, aren''t you my son?" asked Mu Chenyan and Hyson nodded without even missing a beat. "Then if you''re my son, and he is my nephew, that makes him your cousin. Got it? As a big brother, you''re supposed to be nice to him?" This kind of logic was really something that ran in this family. And only they could understand it as well.

 Chapter 755 [Bonus chapter]Cabbage Of Our House

    Chapter 755 [Bonus chapter]Cabbage Of Our HouseˇˇˇˇHyson reluctantly nodded his head. It''s not like he could go against her. So, even if he didn''t like this ''cousin'' at first sight, he was willing to give him another chance. As long as this little ''cousin'' kept a reasonable distance from his godmother. He was already losing his mother to a wild soldier. He couldn''t lose his godmother to another wild kid now!

    "Aunt, how is he your son?" asked Xiao Liang. "You never married. You never even dated anyone seriously. So, did this son drop from the sky?"

    Mu Chenyan looked at her nephew in amusement, "You can say that he really dropped from the sky. But who told you I never dated anyone seriously?"

    "Dad said it," answered Xiao Liang honestly. He didn''t mind selling his father out.

    "Oh..." Mu Chenyan''s ''oh'' had a deep meaning behind it that her uncle Gou could tell and even silently prayed for his son. But was he gonna speak up for his son? Nah!

    Now that his sons were old, no one could control them. It was about time to let his niece take their reins and remind them who was the real boss!

    Just thinking about it Uncle Gou was happy. But being the Dean of the hospital, he maintained his prestige and coughed to hide hisughter. Looking at Hyson, he patted his shoulder, "So, you''re my niece''s godson. We finally meet. I have always been curious about you."

    "Oh, and you''re Yanyan''s maternal uncle who likes to nag like an old woman," was Hyson''s response. "Well, I definitely wasn''t curious about you."

    Uncle Gou did not expect that reply from Hyson. But Mu Chenyan looked too proud of her godson right now. Indeed! She raised him well! His tongue was just as poisonous as Raelle''s. She loved it!

    Meanwhile, Cloe was trying to control herughter along with Xiao Liang. He didn''t think not just his aunt attacked his grandpa, even her aunt''s godson was too good. Looking at how helpless his grandpa looked, Xiao Liang felt a little bad for him. But this feeling of a little bad was too negligible before the amusement he was feeling right now.

    "If I didn''t know any better, I''d think you''re her son," said Uncle Gou.

    "I don''t mind," replied Hyson. "You can just take me as her son." The only difference between a real son and a godson was the blood. But in Hyson''s opinion, blood rtions were too shallow. He never took them that seriously.

    He wasn''t rted to Raelle by blood as well but it never changed his feelings for her. If he called her ''Jiejie'' she was his older sister. One whom he was willing to protect with all his heart. And if he called Mu Chenyan his ''godmother'' then he truly meant it from his heart. He didn''t think there was any difference between his own mother and Mu Chenyan. Both loved him and both were willing to offer the whole world to him.

    It was all the same to him.

    "Okay, Uncle," started Mu Chenyan. "We are leaving now. You cane to see me and Xiang Manor. But as I said, I really have no time these days." Then she turned to Hyson, "Let''s go, my little prince. You''ve been here sincest night. Let''s go home and rest for a while."

    Hyson didn''t argue with her and obediently followed her out while waving bye-bye to his new little ''cousin''.

    "Yanyan!"

    "Hm?" responded Mu Chenyan. "Don''t even think about staying here. You don''t even like hospitals. There is no need for you to guard Raelle. She has someone to apany her now."

    "That''s not what I wanted to say," responded Hyson while rubbing his nose.

    Mu Chenyan didn''t wait for him to continue and noticed Cloe, "Should I drop you somewhere, Cloe?"

    Cloe shook her head, "No, someone will pick me up."

    Mu Chenyan''s lips curled up in a smirk before she nodded meaningfully. "Then we''ll wait here with you until that someone picks you up."

    Cloe was startled to hear that and waved her hands. "No, no. There is no need for that. How can I dy you here?"

    Mu Chenyan waved her off nonchntly, "There is no dy at all. I think we should stay and wait. Right, my little Fai?"

    "Right!" agreed Hyson.

    "But..." Cloe wanted to say something but didn''t know what she wanted to say or how to say it. Considering how Mu Chenyan was also her boss, she didn''t think she had the right to shoo her away.

    "I think I should stay and see which pig dug out the cabbage of my house," stated Mu Chenyan making Hyson chuckle in amusement.

    Cloe was suddenly scared when she heard that. Oho! Why did she feel so nervous for Cui Xukun all of a sudden? It shouldn''t be like this. Right?

    "He is a good guy," she told Mu Chenyan.

    "I''ll decide that," she got the answer from Mu Chenyan. "But don''t worry, I''m not here to nitpick about your choice." She looked straight at Cloe and asked, "Do you remember when I hired you, what did I say to you?"

    Cloe nodded her head and repeated her words, "You said, all I have to do is, be a good support for Raelle, and as long as I do my job well. You''ll always be backing me like my supporter."

    "And I still mean it," said Mu Chenyan. "Years have passed and I believe, our original rtionship has also changed. But what didn''t change is..." She ced her hand on Cloe''s shoulder and thetter looked up at her, "I''m still backing you up. You need to remember that you''re not alone. I''m still your supporter."

    Cloe was stunned by those words. Those words seemed to have shot straight to her heart. She didn''t know how to react right now.

    "And that pig also needs to know who is standing behind you, lest he gets any funny idea of trying to hurt someone from our family."

 Chapter 756 Marriage At Stake

    Chapter 756 Marriage At StakeˇˇˇˇOf course, Cui Xukun was the pig in this scenario, and it certainly amused Hyson to no end. But these remarks made Cloe feel very warm in her heart. How could she not be feeling warm? She now had Mu Chenyan as her backer! Wow! This feeling of hugging the fattest thigh was too good.

    As for how naturally Mu Chenyan said that she was always standing behind Cloe, it was even more heartwarming to Cloe who had long felt like she was all alone on this journey.

    Mu Chenyan on the other hand didn''t have so many thoughts about what she said. She meant every word she said. She pulled out her ck shades and wore them handsomely. She was also very clear about the people she was willing to stand up for. For whatever reason she picked Cloe back then to stay beside Raelle, today, the reason was simple; Cloe was very sincere towards Raelle.

    And from the moment Mu Chenyan had held Raelle in her arms, her thinking had changed a lot. Now, she judged people only in two ways. One who is good to her Elle and two who are not good to her Elle. And she had a very clear distinction between the two as well. If you''re not good to her Elle, she didn''t mind making you disappear from the face of the earth. But if you''re good to her Elle, she''d be willing to offer you the whole world.

    As always, she was just that biased when it came to Raelle. Even the people around her were judged on the basis of their attitude towards Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan was very clear about Cloe''s family situation and although she despised those parents who used their kids for their own purposes, she couldn''t do anything. At least, not until Cloe asked her to do something for her. For now, she was willing to offer support to Cloe unconditionally because she knew her Elle would do the same for Cloe.

    It didn''t take long before a white-colored family car came to park right beside them. Cui Xukun alighted from the car and smiled widely at Cloe.

    "You should have waited inside," said Cui Xukun looking concerned. "What if you get sunburns?"

    Mu Chenyan was eyeing him and gave him a nod when she noticed the concern in his eyes and his words. Hmmm... Not bad for starters.

    "We just came out," stated Cloe while sneaking a peek at Mu Chenyan. "And the sun isn''t that strong today."

    "You should still be careful," replied Cui Xukun.

    "Wow! Your eyes really don''t see anyone else, eh!"

    Cui Xukun moved his eyes away from Cloe once he heard that and looked at Hyson in surprise. He frowned since Hyson was wearing his face mask and cap, he couldn''t recognize him immediately.

    Hyson lowered his face mask to show his face to him saying, "How can you forget me so soon? I''m the wave that gave your ship a push to sail into the deeper sea."

    He seemed very proud of himself and Cloe chuckled at his remark. But technically, he wasn''t all that wrong. If Hyson hadn''t been in Cloe''s apartment that day, Cui Xukun wouldn''t even know how slow his rtionship progress with Cloe would be now.

    "Hi!" Cui Xukun greeted him. "How are you?"

    "I''m a sunshine boy," was Hyson''s reply. "I''m always bright like the sunshine."

    "There can be cloudy days like today," Cloe chimed in.

    "On those days, I''m cloudy boy," stated Hyson with no hesitation.

    Cui Xukun wanted to rx but for some reason, standing before Cloe, his nerves had been taut. And only when Mu Chenyan took off her shades, did he knows why. This woman had been staring at him intently with narrowed eyes. There was a sharp look in her eyes as if she could peel off his skin and uncover his soul.

    He suddenly felt cold and unnerved.

    "Not that bad," said Mu Chenyan.

    Cloe took the initiative to introduce, "Kun, this is Miss Mu Chenyan. She is... She is someone I respect very much. She is like an elder to me. Just like family."

    Mu Chenyan was satisfied to hear that and extended her hand toward Cui Xukun, "Pleasure to meet you."

    Cui Xukun held her hand and instantly regretted it. Bloody hell! How was she so strong?! He felt like she was gonna crush his bones and it made him wince but he didn''t want to show his pained expression to Cloe. That''d be embarrassing!

    "Weak!" was Mu Chenyan''s evaluation when she let his hand go. "But not that uneptable."

    Cui Xukun finally knew what was going on. Cloe said she was like family so she was actually evaluating him right now?! And it seems, he didn''t do a good job at impressing her. He suddenly felt remorseful. He shouldn''t bezy. He should join the gym again and go there diligently. How could he lose to a woman like this?

    Cloe looked at Cui Xukun''s hand which was trembling slightly. Of course, he was trying to control the trembling but it wasn''t sessful as of yet.

    "You okay?" asked Cloe. "Did she go really hard on you?"

    "I didn''t," said Mu Chenyan in her defense. "I was being very nice."

    Cui Xukun''s lips twitched when he heard that. She was being nice? So, that was nice? How would his hand end up if she wasn''t being nice? He shuddered at the thought and shook it off. It was better not to think at all.

    Suddenly, the window of the car''s backseat rolled down and two small heads craned out as they cried, "Sister Cloe! Sister Cloe!"

    Cloe looked at those turnip heads and her smile widened instantly.

    Mu Chenyan looked at the kids and looked at Cui Xukun, "You have kids as well? Should I start reevaluating you?"

    Cui Xukun suddenly felt like his future was looking bleak. It wasn''t even the first time when people mistook his niece and nephew as his own kids. He should be immune to it but this time, it was his own marriage at stake!

 Chapter 757 Find Faults

    Chapter 757 Find Faultsˇˇˇˇ"Does he lose points for having kids?" asked Hyson curiously.

    Mu Chenyan shook her head, "Not really." But before Cui Xukun exin that those weren''t his kids, Mu Chenyan''s brows knitted up and she said, "Oh, those are Soren''s kids."

    Cui Xukun was surprised to hear that but immediately nodded, "Yes, that''s my niece and nephew."

    Mu Chenyan looked at Cui Xukun up and down and gave him a nod, "So, you''re Cui Xuqing''s brother."

    "Yes," although he didn''t know why or how she knew his sister, he still answered respectfully. Something was nagging him in his heart that he couldn''t afford to offend the woman before him.

    Mu Chenyan hummed to herself and pushed her shades back on. Turning to Cloe, she said, "Bring him home sometime." Cloe happily agreed while Mu Chenyan patted Cui Xukun''s shoulder before giving it a squeeze that tensed his body up. "Keep in mind. You can''t bully people from my family. Keep her happy. I''ll keep my eyes on you."

    With that, she went off with Hyson trailing behind her. But he didn''t forget to wave at them with both hands. Then he hopped off behind Mu Chenyan like her little tail. Mu Chenyan suddenly stopped making Hyson bump into her because he wasn''t paying attention.

    "What happened?" he asked.

    "I feel like I''m forgetting something," said Mu Chenyan thoughtfully.

    "You think?" came a voice and Mu Chenyan bit her lip.

    She looked at Shui Koshing and grinned, "Shing Ge, I forgot."

    Shui Koshing rolled his eyes at her, "I told you, we''ll leave together so wait for me! Can''t you stay at one ce?"

    Hyson hehe-ed from the side and said, "I think Uncle Shing, you should know that Yanyan can''t stay at one ce. She just can''t."

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her nose but didn''t seem embarrassed.

    Shui Koshing could only shake his head at that. He should really know how Mu Chenyan was. How could she sit in one ce? She definitely preferred hopping around like a bunny.

    Behind them, the little ones happily greeted Cloe while Cui Xukun stood there and looked at Mu Chenyan''s back. He had a very thoughtful look in his eyes. He felt like he had seen Mu Chenyan before.

    "What are you looking at?" asked Cloe.

    "Oh, it''s Miss Mu Chenyan," replied Cui Xukun. "I feel like I have seen her before."

    "That isn''t possible," answered Cloe. "She isn''t that easy to meet. She might appear carefree, she is more difficult to approach than my Chief."

    "How is she rted to you?" asked Cui Xukun.

    "She is Chief''s..." Cloe didn''t know how to continue. What was Mu Chenyan to Raelle? This question was difficult to answer. It was actually very difficult. Because until now, she definitely hadn''t been able to understand the rtionship between the two. "Just know that she is Chief''s family."

    Cui Xukun nodded to himself. "Get in the car," he told her. "We''ll first go to the shopping mall."

    "Oh, why?" asked Cloe.

    "Because we are buying lipsticks for mom!" said little Sammy.

    "Aren''t we good babies?" Little Xena fished for somepliments and praise from Cloe.

    "Oh, you both are such good babies," said Cloe not shying away fromplimenting these cuties.

    "Huh!" Cui Xukun snorted. "What good babies? It''s only because you ruined your mom''s lipstick that you want to buy a new one to make up for it."

    Cloe pursed her lips to hold back her smile when she saw the way those little faces puffed up like fishes when they red at their uncle. They weren''t happy about being exposed like this before Cloe. Of course, they wanted to act like good babies in front of her.

    Cloe''s heart was melting just looking at these adorable babies. Oh, how envious she was of Soren!

    "Uncle, you can''t tarnish babies'' reputation before beautiful sister," said little Sammy in his sticky and adorable voice as he tried to sound intimidating but failed miserably and only sounded cute.

    "Yes, we are still good babies. We only ruined one lipstick but aren''t we gonna buy two to make up to mom?" added little Xena righteously.

    Cloe was even more amused to hear that. But she had to say, they were right. See? How good they were. They only ruined one but wanted to buy two for their mommy.

    Cui Xukun sneered, "Of course, you''d be buying two. After all, it''s my money. Whether you buy one or the whole collection, the money ising from my pocket anyway. How would you feel any burden."

    "Tsk. How can uncle be so shallow?" asked little Xena. "Mom says, people who always talk about money are cheap."

    Cui Xukun''s face hardened while Cloe burst outughing when she heard that. Oh my god! These two were really...

    She rubbed their heads and said, "Okay. Get inside and put on your seatbelt. We''ll buy the whole collection for your mom. And I''ll be the one paying."

    "Yay!" Both of them immediately became happy but stopped, "No, that''s not good." Thye spoke at the same time. They turned their small heads to their uncle and said, "Uncle, is it okay for you to use your girlfriend''s money? Don''t you have any pride? Can''t you be a bit more gentlemanly?"

    Cui Xukun gaped at these two, "You! I have always been the best uncle and now, I have so many faults?"

    "It takes time to see faults," said little Sammy. He turned to Cloe and said, "Beautiful sis, you don''t be hasty with my uncle. Take your time and find all his ws first."

    Cui Xukun''s heart was gonna stop. That''s what he was feeling. It couldn''t be helped. These little devils were inciting his girlfriend now.

    "Or you can wait for me to grow up, beautiful sis," suggested little Sammy.

    Cloeughed so loudly. Once again it was confirmed that Cui Xukun was apletely different person once he was around his niece and nephew. He''d really let them bully him happily. Aww! He was so helpless before them and yet loved them so much.

 Chapter 758 No Doubt

    Chapter 758 No Doubtˇˇˇˇ"Seriously, Chenyan, how can you forget a living breathing person?" inquired Shui Koshing as he still hadn''t forgotten how this woman actually left him behind.

    Mu Chenyan scratched her ear and said, "To be very honest, Shing Ge, I am very capable of forgetting living breathing people." She saw his dark look and added, "But I wasn''t exactly at fault here. When you left, things happened. Some people I didn''t want to see ran into me and then my only thought was to escape. But then my little Fai came and I literally forgot everything and everyone. How can you remember anything with him around?"

    Hyson stayed silent as he wondered how did he got involved in this? Was he just being used as a shield? But forget it! As long as the one using him was his godmother, he was okay with it.

    Meanwhile, Shui Koshing also looked at Hyson and narrowed his eyes as he grunted, "Indeed, it''s tough to remember anything else with him around."

    Hyson smiled like a Cheshire cat at beingplimented. It seemed he had a talent even he didn''t know about.

    "But Chenyan, who were the people you didn''t want to see?" asked Shui Koshing seriously.

    Mu Chenyan didn''t expect he''d hold on to that point. "Just someone I used to know."

    "Used to know," repeated Shui Koshing meaningfully. "Why do I feel like there is something very deep behind these simple words?"

    "Maybe it''s just in your head," stated Mu Chenyan.

    "For someone who is always curious about others, you certainly know how to hide your own past," said Shui Koshing. Clearly, he felt uneasy about how she knew every detail regarding his wife. Even the details, he wasn''t familiar with. "Why don''t you ever talk about your past?"

    "Is there anyone who isn''t familiar with my past?" asked Mu Chenyan. "I think anyone who knows the name Mu Chenyan knows the legends associated with that name."

    "However," started Shui Koshing. "There aren''t many people who know the real Mu Chenyan."

    "There is no mystery behind Mu Chenyan," said Mu Chenyan. "I am exactly what I appear to be."

    Shui Koshing didn''t question but Hyson asked, "So, who did you meet?"

    "One of them was a friend I trusted but in the end, he didn''t trust me enough. And the other was... Someone who used me to achieve her goal."

    "So, both are not good people," concluded Hyson.

    Mu Chenyan rubbed his head, "No. Don''t jump to conclusions. They both are good people. They both are doctors who save lives. But they are people who just made bad choices." She hummed to herself before adding, "It''s not like I''m any better than them. I have made a lot of bad choices as well. And if we think about it objectively, I''ll be the one called a bad person."

    "How is that possible?" Hyson strongly refuted that. "I don''t know about the world. But Yanyan is the best for me. Oh, and Ellie would definitely agree with me. So, you don''t listen to the world. You just listen to us instead. Only our opinion matters anyway."

    Mu Chenyan chuckled at his remark, "My little cutie if I gave a damn about people''s opinion, I wouldn''t be Mu Chenyan." She literally was someone who didn''t care about what people had to say about her. From this, it could be seen that in fact, she had impacted Raelle in more ways than it appeared to be.

    After all, Raelle also never cared about anyone''s opinion or how they looked at her.

    "Oh, by the way, I saw Cui Xukun with Cloe," said Shui Koshing. "Was I mistaken?"

    "Nope," answered Hyson for him. "Uncle Shing saw it right. That was indeed Cui Xukun with Cloe."

    "Why was he with her?" asked Shui Koshing.

    "They are dating," replied Hyson.

    "Really?" Shui Koshing was surprised to hear that. Of course, he knew about his son''s ssmate and a very good friend from his youth. But he hadn''t seen Cui Xukun for years, he didn''t expect he''d see him here and that too as Cloe''s boyfriend. "That''s good news."

    "Everyone is getting into a rtionship," said Hyson. "Yanyan, when are you gonna get into one?"

    Mu Chenyan gave him a look, "Don''t look at me. You should think about yourself."

    Hyson shook his head, "I''m the youngest here. You''re the elder. You first!"

    "If we are going by seniority, shouldn''t we talk about Shing Ge instead?"

    Shui Koshing didn''t think he''d get into this mess while he was minding his own business. "No thanks! I''m fine."

    "Don''t be shy, Shing Ge!" said Mu Chenyan with a smile. "Although you aren''t that young, I assure you, you''re still gonna be a hotmodity on the marriage market."

    Hyson ''pfft'' at that while Shui Koshing gave her an ugly re.

    "Shut up!" he said. "In seniority, your brother is even older than me. Why don''t you ask him to get on the marriage market?"

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her chin thoughtfully, "You''re actually right. That''s not a bad idea. I should think about it seriously."

    Shui Koshing didn''t think she''d take his words seriously but he was actually looking forward to it now. His wife died only a decade ago but Xiang Hulin and Song Xin''ai had divorced for over two decades now. Wouldn''t it be interesting to see how Mu Chenyan would even convince her brother who had been single for so long?

    Hyson also had the same thought as Shui Koshing. He also wanted to know what Mu Chenyan was gonna do. But as he had seen Mu Chenyan''s interaction with Xiang Hulin, he was certain about one thing; Xiang Hulin''s attitude towards Mu Chenyan was exactly the same as Mu Chenyan''s attitude towards Raelle. Both were willing to even offer their life to the other.

    "I heard you told Weimin that you''re gonna find him a blind date?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "I did," replied Hyson.

    "Found the candidate?" she asked in amusement.

    "Not yet," he answered. "It needs more thinking. But don''t worry."

    "I''m not worried at all," replied Mu Chenyan. "I have no doubt in your choice."

 Chapter 759 Free Man

    Chapter 759 Free ManˇˇˇˇZhai Yanjun just came out of thepanymander''s office after receiving his next assignment and didn''t look very good. He once again looked at the orders and sighed heavily. Oh, he didn''t like this mission! He didn''t like it at all!

    "Captain!"

    Zhai Yanjun gave a nod to the soldier who saluted and walked towards the canteen.

    "Captain, why do you look so down? What did themander say?" asked one of the soldiers from his squadron.

    "We have a new mission," he told the person who asked as he took a seat.

    "What is it to make you look like you lost your soul?" the soldier whose name was Xie Sen joked with his captain.

    "There is a crew nning to make a movie based on military cadets," told Zhai Yanjun. "And they want to portray the real atmosphere. That''s why for the next three months they''d be sending actors to our training base for training." He gritted out these words hatefully. "As luck would have it, our squad is chosen for the honor of training those weak little actors."

    Xie Sen''s smile froze and he lost his yful expression. His expression looked grave right now. "Really? How did they even get the permission for it?"

    "First, the producer has a strong backing. Second, the military wants to take this chance for promotion. After all, we all can see how the consignment rate is dropping each year."

    "Tsk. Young people have no passion to serve the country,"mented Xie Sen.

    "Says the guy who was thrown into the military by his family to turn him into a human."

    Xie Sen scratched his nose and lowered his head. He couldn''t argue with his captain about that. He obviously didn''t forget how he ended up in the military in the first ce. But now, he knew he belonged here.

    "Captain, is there gonna be girls in the crew?" he asked with bright eyes.

    "Yes," answered Zhai Yanjun feeling even worse at that. He could still handle those male actors, what was he supposed to do with those delicate actresses who had eyes on their foreheads? He was really having a headache because of this matter.

    "Hehehe... I think we''ll have fun," said Xie Sen. "At least, they''d a feast for the eyes."

    Zhai Yanjun smacked his head, "If you dared cause trouble for me, see how I''ll fix you!"

    Xie Sen rubbed his head, "I don''t dare do it, Captain. I said feast for the eyes. No other intention."

    Zhai Yanjun sneered as he thought, ''Let''s see if I give you enough time to even look at anything.''

    "Captain, you have a food delivery."

    Zhai Yanjun looked at the insted food box and his mood brightened up immediately. He opened the box and looked at the delicious food in front of him. Oh, just the smell of the homemade food was different and more tempting than the food in the canteen. Although the food at the canteen wasn''t all that bad.

    "Wow! Captain, you''re making people envious. I''m drooling!"

    "Captain, are you sure it''s not from your girlfriend?"

    "Captain said it before, it''s from his Ayi!"

    "Why don''t I have an Ayi like that? Mine is always wondering if I can help her son get a job."

    "Hahaha! Be happy, Old Lao! At least your Ayi thinks you''re useful. Mine doesn''t even talk to me."

    "Hey! I have it the worst. I don''t even have an Ayi!"

    "Hahahaha!"

    "Go away!" Zhai Yanjun shooed away the group of people who gathered around his mouth watering food. He didn''t want these wolves to stare at him while he ate. They always ruined his appetite. Maybe he had been too nice to themtely and that''s why they even dared to joke around with him and act so unruly.

    "So stingy!" someone muttered in the crowd.

    "Do you want to run around the ground?"

    "No, Sir!"

    "Then get back to your seats!" Zhai Yanjun''s roaring voice rang out making them all run back to their seats. They didn''t dare to even breathe loudly in fear of provoking him.

    Zhai Yanjun finally found some peace and started eating his meal happily. Even though he told his aunt she didn''t have to send these meals to him, she still found time to send these to him every other day. Of course, he couldn''tin about it. After all, it made him feel loved. And he was getting addicted to this feeling.

    *Ring!*

    Zhai Yanjun took out his phone and frowned at the caller id. He epted the call, "Hello, dad! You''re looking for me?"

    "It''s not me who is looking for you," came the reply from Zhai Kuijun.

    "Indeed, it''d be weird if you''re looking for me for something," replied Zhai Yanjun. "Then what''s up? You didn''t call me to ask about my health, right?"

    "Are you joking with your father now?" asked Zhai Kuijun.

    "Can''t I?" retorted Zhai Yanjun.

    "Well, you can," said Zhai Kuijun. "But it''s not the time for that."

    "What''s up?" asked Zhai Yanjun seriously. He could instinctively feel that his father called him for a reason.

    "It seems you''ll have to make a trip back home," said Zhai Kuijun.

    "Today?"

    "It''d be better if it''s today," replied Zhai Kuijun. "I don''t think I''d be able to take the pressure if you didn''te today."

    "Oh?" Zhai Yanjun raised his brow in surprise. "Dad, why don''t you speak clearly?"

    Zhai Kuijun sighed, "It''s your maternal grandparents."

    "Huh?"

    "Yeah, your maternal grandparents are here," replied Zhai Kuijun. His voice lowered as if he was telling a secret as he said, "Come soon. Your maternal grandfather has been ring at me as if I''m his biggest enemy. And I can''t do anything about it."

    "Dad, are you feeling guilty for divorcing mom?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "No way!" replied Zhai Kuijun. "I just respect him so I can''t say anything. I''m willing to take the me if he wants to me me even though he and I both know it''s not my fault. But I''m not willing to feel guilty for what I did. I have no regrets. I am a free man. How can I have any regrets now?"

    Zhai Yanjun didn''t think his father got so amusing after he became a ''free man''.

 Chapter 760 Not Have Been Born

    Chapter 760 Not Have Been BornˇˇˇˇZhai Yanjun was actually very amused by his father''s statement of being a ''free man''. From the moment he learned that his parents divorced, he noticed how his father''s mood had taken a shift. From a cloudy day to sunshine. That''s the evaluation he had.

    He never even knew how much this marriage affected his own father. He always thought his father was a gloomy and serious old man. At least, that''s what his impression was. But only now, did he figure out that his father was originally not like that.

    "Are you listening?" Zhai Kuijun''s voice was heard and it snapped Zhai Yanjun out of his daze.

    "Yes, I''m listening," he answered.

    "Then when are youing?" asked Zhai Kuijun.

    Zhai Yanjun checked the time and said, "I''ll be back soon." He hung up the phone and sighed to himself.

    Meanwhile, when Zhai Kuijun went back inside the living room where his parents sat with their inws. Oh, it was ex-inws now. He softened his steps and tentatively took a seat before telling them, "Jun will be back soon."

    He heard a grunting sound from Old Master Yue and lowered his head.

    "Son-inw, how about we talk?"

    Zhai Kuijun looked at Old Madam Yue and could only nod his head in response. What else could he do now? Even if they weren''t his parents-inw anymore, they were still his son''s grandparents. And even keeping that aside, just the fact that they were Yue Yue''s parents was enough for him to maintain the respect he had for them.

    "Sure," he stood up and directed Old Madam Yue to another sitting area. "Please, take a seat."

    As soon as Old Madam Yue sat down she started, "About your divorce with Ah-Lan... You should have discussed it with us. Don''t you think you took a very hasty decision?"

    "Did I?" Zhai Kuijun''s lips curled up as he asked. "I think I already wasted too many years. I should have taken that decision a long time ago."

    Old Madam Yue didn''t expect him to say this. She was taken aback for a moment. "Kuijun, this isn''t an age for you to act impulsively. Have you thought about the consequences of this? Do you even realize how it''ll affect your son? Yes, Yanjun has grown up but his parents'' divorce will still have some impact on him."

    "You don''t have to worry about Jun," stated Zhai Kuijun calmly.

    "How can I not worry about him? He is my grandson. And he is already at the age of marriage. You already spent years with Ah-Lan and yet got a divorce at this age. Do you think it won''t have any effect on Yanjun''s marriage?"

    Zhai Kuijun looked at her and suddenly chuckled. "As I said, you don''t have to worry about Jun. My matters won''t affect his life." Before she could say anything else, he added, "But I can tell you, this marriage has already affected my son very much. I don''t know what effect the divorce will have on him but it can''t be worse than what my marriage did to him. Or to be precise, what his mother did to him."

    "Kuijun, Ah-Lan is Yanjun''s mother," said Old Madam Yue. "She won''t hurt her own son."

    Zhai Kuijun snorted, "Don''t you ever say that to me again. If Jun had told me what she did to him, I''d have divorced her years ago! And you''re still here defending her?" He was trying to hold back his anger. He didn''t want to disrespect her right now. But he seriously couldn''t take it anymore. "Aren''t you tired of defending her?" His expression was dark as he said, "Even after all these years, she isn''t willing to ept you as a mother. To her, you''ll always be a stepmother. And she''ll never stop ming you for her mother''s death even when the whole world knows you had nothing to do with it. You threw away your own daughter for her. Why didn''t you think about defending your own daughter even once? It''s been years, do you even care if she is dead or alive? Maybe I shouldn''t even ask this question. Because you only see Ah-Lan but keep forgetting that you gave birth to Ah-Yue."

    Old Madam Yue''s eyes turned red when she heard that. Her eyes were stinging from tears that brimmed up and the way her heart clenched was painful and awful. Yet, she was helpless. She was really helpless because she couldn''t say anything to refute his ims. Every single word he said was the truth. The truth of her life where she abandoned her own daughter for the sake of her step-daughter.

    She was the worst mother but it was toote already. There was no going back now.

    "We are talking about Ah-Lan right now," she spoke up after calming down her emotions. "We are not talking about Ah-Yue. Don''t bring her up. It''s because you don''t forget her that Ah-Lan loses her temper with you. If only you had stopped looking for Ah-Yue back then, your rtionship would have been fine."

    "No," denied Zhai Kuijun. "Our rtionship was never okay. It was my own delusion that everything was fine. It was I who was blind to not see, the real Yue Lan. She kept deceiving me and I fell for it. But we can''t pretend for life. By the time I saw her real self, she was already my wife. Didn''t I still try to make this marriage work? What happened? Her paranoia and jealousy towards Ah-Yue never went away." He clenched his fists as he said, "I have been saying for years that Ah-Yue and I were just friends. But you and your Ah-Lan keep trying to tell me that no, what I feel for Ah-Yue is love. But do you realize that once a lie is spoken repeatedly, it bes the truth? Maybe now, it has really be true and I do love Ah-Yue. What can you all do about that? It''s already toote anyway."

    "You!" Old Madam Yue was shocked by what he just said.

    She knew how Yue Lan had been repeatedly hounding Zhai Kuijun for years and every time, her argument was that Zhai Kuijun loved Yue Yue and not her. And for all those years, Zhai Kuijun repeatedly tried to prove himself and his loyalty but Yue Lan was truly blind. She never cared about the truth. All she cared about was her own self. And if she said ck was white, then no matter what you say, she won''t believe it.

    "You removed everything rted to Yue Yue from your life just to prove to your stepdaughter that you have really cut ties with Yue Yue. You even stopped saying her name as if it was a crime. You act like she never even existed. I stayed quiet and minded my own business because I thought maybe in this way, my marriage will work out. But what happened? Your stepdaughter is standing right where she stood years ago."

    "Even if you''re silent, you never stopped searching for Yue Yue," said Old Madam Yue. "Do you think I don''t know that? Any wife will feel insecure with a husband who keeps secrets like these. You know very well how much Yue Lan dislikes Yue Yue and yet, you have to do something that hurts her? Do you think you had been sincere in this marriage?"

    "No one can question my sincerity!" Zhai Kuijun''s voice turned somber. He was a qualified businessman. How could his intimidation be lower than a woman who was just a housewife and only knew how to associate with the wives of the government officials? "I had always been loyal and sincere. Just because you all want to forget Yue Yue''s existence doesn''t mean I''ll follow your lead. Why should I? I met her first. She was my friend. A very important friend. She was the reason I even met Yue Lan. She was also the reason why I went out with Yue Lan. Her ce had always been special in my life. Even before our marriage, I made it clear to Yue Lan. I am not someone who would abandon his friends just because I found a lover. And that''s why I warned her not to force me to make a choice. I''m not that emotional that I''d choose love over friendship. But Yue Lan had to test me over and over again."

    Old Madam Yue could see how stimted he was right now and felt a little uneasy. She of course knew why Zhai Kuijun put so much importance on Yue Yue. And she should feel happy about that too since he was always standing up for her daughter. But she was that unfortunate mother who just couldn''t be happy in such a situation. She was bound to disappoint her own daughter from the very beginning. And that''s why she had once wished for Yue Yue to not have been born ever.

 Chapter 761 Emotionally Charged

    Chapter 761 Emotionally Chargedˇˇˇˇ"Even if you''re stubborn, you shouldn''t go too far," said Old Madam Yue. "Why do you have to keep bringing up Yue Yue? Can''t you just let her go? She is already dead."

    Thatst sentence struck straight at Zhai Kuijun''s patience and calmness. His hand mmed on the table hard making a loud bang as he stood up. His actions startled the old bones of Old Madam Yue.

    "Who said she is dead? Did you see her dying? Did you see her dead body? Who are you to say she is gone?" Zhai Kuijun knew there was a such a possibility that Yue Yue was already dead. After all, he had been looking for her for years but found not a single clew. Even Xiang Hulin told him to be mentally prepared for the possibility that Yue Yue was no longer in this world. But he wasn''t ready to ept that.

    "Zhai Kuijun!"

    Hearing that stern voice, Zhai Kuijun paused and looked back to see Old Master Yue standing there with a frown etched between his brows. He looked displeased with him but for once, Zhai Kuijun didn''t care about his mood at all.

    "Is that the way to talk to an elder?" asked Old Master Yue as he came to stand beside his wife and put a hand on her shoulder.

    "Just because she is an elder doesn''t mean she can say whatever she wants," retorted Zhai Kuijun without any fear. He was always submissive in front of this father-inw of his but that didn''t mean he was weak.

    "Kuijun," he heard his mother''s soft voice and looked at her.

    "Mother, stay out of it," said Zhai Kuijun. He turned back to Old Madam Yue and continued, "There was a time, I used to try to understand you but now, I don''t care. I don''t care whatever promises you had. None of that justifies how you treated your own daughter. What did she do wrong? If you weren''t willing to be a good mother, you shouldn''t have given birth to her in the first ce. Why bring her into this world to torture her? Ah! Now, I understand maybe Yue Lan really took after you. That''s why she also knew how to torture her own son!"

    "Zhai Kuijun, don''t talk nonsense," said Old Master Yue. "You don''t get to talk to my wife like that."

    "Oh, so you do care about your wife?" Zhai Kuijun shot back. "Where were you when your Yue Lan was insulting her and embarrassing her everywhere? Now, in old age, you remember that she is your wife? If you had forgotten your dead wife earlier, Yue Yue wouldn''t have to suffer so much."

    "I have always loved Yue Yue," said Old Master Yue in an aged voiceced with some vulnerability. His hand ced on Old Madam Yue''s shoulder shook a little. Even she knew that Yue Yue was a sensitive topic for her husband. Wasn''t that why she had been avoiding talking about her own daughter?

    "Well, your love was too expensive for her!" said Zhai Kuijun. "It''d have been better if you didn''t love her like you didn''t love her mother. In that way, at least, she would have been saved from Yue Lan''s inexplicable hatred. Your love for Yue Yue was the biggest problem. So what if you loved her? When she needed you, none of you stood up for her!"

    Old Master Yue''s body swayed a little and Old Madam Yue stood up to support his body in worry.

    "Kuijun, please, stop it!" begged Old Madam Yue.

    But Zhai Kuijun had really lost it today. It was like the things buried in his heart had finally found an outlet after years. It was as if he finally found the courage to confront these people. And he really wanted to shake them and ask why did they wrong Yue Yue?

    "Why should I stop?" he asked with rage burning in his eyes. "I think you all should stop. Stop hiding things from me. For once, tell me the sin that Yue Yue evenmitted. What kind of crime was it that she deserved to be thrown out of the house in the middle of a storm? In the middle of the night?! And what kind of parents are you that your hearts didn''t even jolt once when she kneeled outside your house for 14 hours! In the bloody storm!"

    Old Master Yue''s head was buzzing but he still asked him, "What did you say? She kneeled outside the house? When did that happen?" He looked at his wife, "Did you know?" Old Madam Yue was already crying but she had the same shock on her face as she shook her head.

    "I don''t know," said Old Madam Yue. "You copsed after you asked Yue Yue to leave. I called the doctor and stayed with you inside the room. But none of the servants told me anything." She looked at Zhai Kuijun and said, "Master has always loved Yue Yue. No one can question that love. She was his treasure. You have no idea how much Master suffered when he had to ask his own daughter to leave. And once Yue Lan pushed her out of the house, Master fell down. He didn''t wake up for two days. So, I beg you, stop saying all that."

    Zhai Kuijun wanted to say something when someone held his arm and he heard, "Dad, take a deep breath and calm down."

    Zhai Kuijun turned his face to see the face of his son and he felt like he had suddenlye back to his senses. On the other hand, while Zhai Yanjun supported his father to sit down, he was thinking about how this was the first time he saw his father losing his temper like that. He had never seen his father act in this way before. Was he always this emotionally charged?

    Now, it seemed like he really didn''t know anything about his father at all.

 Chapter 762 Pick A Side

    Chapter 762 Pick A SideˇˇˇˇThe person behind the conflict in the Zhai house, namely Yue Yue was currently leisurely sitting on the bay window as she nibbled on spicy chicken feet. Her lips were red from chili and oil, even her eyes were red as if she was on verge of crying. But she wasn''t willing to put down the chicken feet.

    Obviously, she also had times when she was like her son, a little gluttony.

    Someone cleared their throat and caught her attention. She looked up with her clear eyes and blinked at Xiang Hulin. Seeing that he sessfully got her attention, Xiang Hulin asked, "If you don''t mind, can I sit here with you?"

    Yue Yue continued to blink in silence while nibbling on the chicken feet. She looked like a greedy hamster and it made Xiang Hulin want tough. But his years of restraint had taught him well to hide his emotions. Even an average person couldn''t tell his emotions much less Yue Yue who was actually a little too innocent for a woman of her age.

    But no matter how innocent she was, she knew he wanted to talk to her so she nodded her head to give her permission. Xiang Hulin pulled a chair to sit down a fair distance away from the bay window where she sat with one leg folded on the seat and the other leg dangling down.

    "Can we talk?" asked Xiang Hulin once he saw she was almost done eating.

    And sure enough, Yue Yue took off the gloves and put the te aside as she sat down properly to face him. Thinking of something, she took her phone and typed on it before showing it to Xiang Hulin. On the screen was written, ''Let''s talk.''

    Xiang Hulin was actually still a bit ufortable about the fact that she couldn''t speak. From what he heard about her from Zhai Kuijun, she had a very beautiful voice. But now... He hid his emotions well to not let her see what was on his mind. No matter how curious he was, he didn''t want to poke at her sore spot.

    Besides, he was certain if he made her sad, Mu Chenyan was gonna make him pay for it. And no matter what age or day, he was always scared of his sister''s temper.

    "I believe you already know that I''m friends with Zhai Kuijun," mentioned Xiang Hulin.

    Yue Yue nodded her head, trying to act very calmly. No, she was actually calmer than before. She had nothing to fear or worry about. She had people protecting her now. And she also had her son. Why should she continue to live in fear?

    "I didn''t tell him about you," said Xiang Hulin. "Although that was my intention when I recognized you." Yue Yue continued to look at him inquisitively as he told her, "You see, Zhai Kuijun had been looking for you for all these years." Yue Yue''s body stiffened a little as he continued, "I tried helping him when he asked me to. But it was to no avail. I never understood how it was so difficult to find someone. The only answer we had was that perhaps, you''re no longer in this world. And I did ask Zhai Kuijun to be prepared for that result. But he wasn''t."

    Yue Yue looked up at him.

    "He was never willing to ept that you''re gone," he told her. "So, even though it''s been over 20 years, we still had been doing our best to find you. And the thing is, now that I found you, I can''t tell my friend about this. Chenchen will not be happy about that and neither will you be."

    Yue Yue typed on her phone again and let the mechanical voice speak for her, ''You seem very scared of Chenyan. Or, should I say you really know how to spoil her.''

    Xiang Hulin smiled at that, "Well, it''s true that I''ve always loved my sister. I do love to spoil her as well. And it''s because that I love her so much that I''m scared of her anger. You should know her anger is not fun."

    Yue Yue typed, ''She can really be scary if she wants to be.''

    "And she can also hide someone if she wants to," added Xiang Hulin meaningfully. "As I said, in this age of technology, it''s easier to find people. But the fact that I never found a trace of you had been very unsettling to me until I learned that my Chenchen cherishes you very much. And with her around, it''s definitely not all that impossible to keep your identity hidden."

    Yue Yue had a small smile on her lips as she nodded and typed, ''Yes, Chenyan had always been very nice to me. She never made me feel like I''m alone. She always looks like a big pir of support.''

    "She is nice to a lot of people," sighed Xiang Hulin. "It''s just that most people never understood it and some didn''t treasure her niceness."

    Yue Yue felt like there was a deeper meaning behind those words and she wanted to probe into it. However, she wasn''t all that familiar with Xiang Hulin, so she felt embarrassed to ask questions. Even though, she had always been interested in knowing more about Mu Chenyan.

    Shaking his head, he said, "I wanted to tell you that although I won''t tell Zhai Kuijun anything, I don''t think you''ll be able to hide."

    Yue Yue also understood that so she nodded, ''I already know that. I have left it all up to fate now.''

    Xiang Hulin gave her a reassuring smile as he told her, "But I can assure you, no matter what, I''ll stand by your side. I don''t dare stand against my sister."

    Yue Yue silently chuckled at that, ''No. You don''t have to. I don''t want you to pick a side because of me. That won''t be fair to him or you. After all, he is your friend. It''ll feel like betrayal. So, it''s better if you don''t take a side.''

    Xiang Hulin was happy to see that she thought that way. No wonder his sister cherished her so much.

 Chapter 763 Shocker

    Chapter 763 Shockerˇˇˇˇ"You''re really a sweet person," remarked Xiang Hulin. ''Just like Kuijun described you.'' But he kept this thought to himself.

    At thatment, Yue Yue showed him a sweet smile.

    Xiang Hulin felt like patting her head but he held himself back. They weren''t that familiar yet. If it was Mu Chenyan in her ce, he''d have already made her head turn into a bird''s nest from rubbing with his big palms. But then again, his sister was definitely not sweet like Yue Yue. If anything, Mu Chenyan was like the sweet poison.

    "Even if you don''t want me to take a side, you can still look for me," insisted Xiang Hulin. "Or you can just simply look for Chenchen. Since she calls you her sister, she''d be willing to even cut open her chest and take out her heart for you."

    Yue Yue nodded in agreement, ''She really has a way to spoil people she loves.''

    "No, she likes to spoil everyone," said Xiang Hulin. "She had always been a fierce person but at the same time, a very nice person. If you don''t provoke her, she''d be the most easy-going person."

    ''So, she always liked to care about everyone?''

    Xiang Hulin shook his head, "Not everyone. If you''re her enemy or a rival, she''d hardly even spare you a nce. She doesn''t like wasting time and energy on people like that. But she had always been willing to do her very best, whether it''s for friends or family."

    And it was because she was willing to do her very best that whenever she needed something, there was a hoard of people offering their help to her. She didn''t even need to say a word and people would love to do her bidding. It''s like a good person is always rewarded.

    Yue Yue only thought about how selfless Mu Chenyan had been. That was the only way she could define Mu Chenyan. If she wasn''t selfless why would she be willing to raise Raelle for so many years without expecting anything in return? Not only that, she could that Mu Chenyan wanted to pay back the gratitude of the Xiang family and that''s why she did whatever she did for Raelle even though that wasn''t the truth. However, when she thought about herself and her son, she truly had to say that Mu Chenyan was selfless.

    They had nothing to do with Mu Chenyan and yet, she had been doing so much for her and her son as well. And now, Mu Chenyan was the existence whom Yue Yue trusted with all her heart. So what if she found this best friend a little annoying at times? It was all part of a friendship or this sisterhood, no?

    ''Can I ask you something personal about Chenyan?''

    Xiang Hulin was thinking about leaving when he heard that mechanical voice from Yue Yue''s phone and stopped. He looked at Yue Yue''s tentative demeanor and nodded his head. "You can ask me anything. I said it before, if you''re Chenchen''s sister, you''re my sister as well. I am a man of words."

    ''Chenyan had been in love?''

    Xiang Hulin sighed at that question, "There was a time when I thought that if my sister took even life seriously, it''d be a miracle. Love? That was the biggest joke in her life. When I first told her about my ex-wife, sheughed at my face for an hour asking me, what was this love I talked about?"

    ''Really?''

    Xiang Hulin nodded his head as he pursed his lips. "It had always been like that. In fact, she said the rtionship between a man and a woman is the most fragile. It has no trust. And marriagees with the possibility of divorce and a lifetime. But love always has an expiration date. So, she''d rather not be in love that is bound to fade with time."

    Yue Yue found it strange when she heard that. She thought the Mu Chenyan she knew was a little different from this. But then again, even Mu Chenyan once told her that if Yue Yue had met her in her youth, Yue Yue would have run away from Mu Chenyan in fear of calling her a hooligan.

    ''She isn''t like that anymore though.''

    "I noticed," stated Xiang Hulin. "My mother once said, ''Ah-Chen, you''re gonna be doomed if you found someone to teach you what love is.'' And surprisingly, Chenchen found that person in the form of my own youngest daughter, Raelle."

    Yue Yue had a look of realization as she nodded in agreement. Indeed, Mu Chenyan often said that raising Raelle changed her. A little baby made her realize a very different meaning of life and made her take life seriously as well.

    ''Raelle is Chenyan''s life,'' was Yue Yue''s heartfelt thoughts. ''Mu Chenyan is nothing without Raelle Xiang. That woman''s happiness is inseparable from her darling Elle. It''s almost like Mu Chenyan loses the meaning of her existence if she doesn''t have Raelle around.''

    Xiang Hulin had a gentle smile on his face when he heard that. He had already noticed it. Once upon a time, he was at the top of Mu Chenyan''s heart but now, he was certain that he''d have to take a seat behind his daughter. Because Mu Chenyan''s heart was filled with Raelle. Didn''t he notice how happy she looked just because she received a call from Raelle earlier?

    "Tsk, life is an illusion," came amented voice of Mu Chenyan before she appeared herself. Seeing her brother sitting with Yue Yue, she raised her brows and rushed up to them. "Oh, what''s happening here? What are we discussing? Do you mind if I join?"

    "Who can mind?" retorted Xiang Hulin.

    "Well, Ge, even if you do mind, do I look like I care?" was Mu Chenyan''s response as she guffawed. "I''ll sit if I want to sit. No one can tell me to do otherwise."

    "Yes, yes, you''re the real boss here," stated Xiang Hulin as if he was coaxing a child. And Yue Yue who noticed it clearly found Mu Chenyan''s smug look a little funny. She never knew someone could coax Mu Chenyan in this way and even seed?

    Wait?!

    Did that mean, Mu Chenyan was always this silly before her brother? What a shocker!

 Chapter 764 Audacious

    Chapter 764 Audaciousˇˇˇˇ''Why do you look sad instead of being happy after meeting Raelle?''

    Mu Chenyan deted when she understood Yue Yue''s question. She sighed heavily. "It''s it because my old heart is broken?"

    "Why? What happened?" asked Xiang Hulin curiously.

    "Here I thought my Elle wanted to see me but in fact, the real purpose was to use me," stated Mu Chenyan. "I feel like I''ve be an encyclopedia of secrets."

    Yue Yue patted her shoulder before telling her with the signnguage, ''At least, you''re still very useful.''

    Mu Chenyan pouted at her best friend''s remark but immediately said, "Actually, I don''t mind being used. It''s my Elle, even if she asks for my life I won''t mind. And all she wanted was to know some secrets. The thing is that I didn''t get to tell everything to her. I''m upset because of Shing Ge, he held me back. I don''t like keeping secrets from my Elle. But he still thinks it''s not good to say some things."

    Yue Yue looked conflicted, ''Isn''t he right though? If the secrets are only gonna ruin the peace of today, why dig into them?''

    "Yue, my dear Yue, you think you can keep a secret for life?" she asked. "I tell you, my Elle taught me one thing, honesty is really the best policy. At least, I don''t have to feel guilty when I look at my Elle. I have always been open with her about everything. The peace of today you speak of is built on secrets. Secrets are a very dangerous thing in a rtionship. Even if you think you''re protecting the other person by keeping a secret, you''re doing more damage than you think."

    Xiang Hulin stood up and poured a ss of water before giving it to Mu Chenyan, "You drink this and calm down. Everyone has their own ideas. And since it''s not your secret, you have no right to divulge it either."

    Mu Chenyan grumbled unhappily but drank the water silently. She knew that Shui Koshing had never wanted to take on the feud between the Tang and Qian family, but still, in the past decade he had done everything he could to suppress the Tang family. He wasn''t an easy target but the Tang family was strong as well. It took quite some effort to break the Tang family but he had seeded.

    At this time, the Tang family was only an empty shell. It only looked splendid from the outside. In reality, they were nothing. Otherwise, wouldn''t they have offered to lend a hand to their rtives like the Ruan family whom Shui Xian destroyed within a day? It was all because the Tang family was a sinking ship on its own. They didn''t have the time to lend a hand to anyone else.

    "Ge, I just noticed," said Mu Chenyan after she was done drinking the water. "You''ve been single for far too long. How about dating?"

    "I have some important calls to make," and with that Xiang Hulin ran away leaving Mu Chenyan staring at his receding back.

    ''Your brother ran away.

    "I can see," replied Mu Chenyan to Yue Yue. "But how far can he run? Since I already have this idea, do you think I''ll let him escape? No way!"

    Yue Yue didn''t know how to react so she changed the topic, ''Did you see my son?''

    Mu Chenyan nodded, "I brought little Fai home. He is in the living room. He already had lunch but I told him to wash up and take a nap after that. He must have not slept wellst night."

    And the little Fai, Mu Chenyan spoke of was indeed in the living room. He was nning on going straight to his room to wash up but he was called by Xiang Weimin.

    "How is Raelle now?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "Why don''t you go see her yourself?" retorted Hyson.

    "She won''t like seeing us there," the answer came from Xiang Wai.

    "True," agreed Hyson. "She definitely won''t like seeing you at the hospital."

    "Thanks for being so honest," was Xiang Wai''s response as she red at him unhappily.

    "Yo! Major, you don''t have to look at me like that. I''m just stating a fact. And it''s not just for you two. She didn''t even want to see me at the hospital. It has nothing to do with anyone else. She just doesn''t like people surrounding her at the hospital oring to see how she is doing. It had always been like that."

    Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin''s expressions eased up a little.

    "I heard something about Shui Xian''s ex-wife and amnesia," mentioned Xiang Weimin.

    Hyson looked at him and said, "Weimin Ge, aren''t you very well informed?"

    Xiang Weimin cleared his throat as he continued to focus on theptop screen before him and said, "I just heard it from here and there."

    "There is such a thing?" questioned Xiang Wai. "Who is this ex-wife? Which room is hers?"

    "Why? You gonna help her in recovering her memories?" questioned Hyson in amusement when he noticed their expressions.

    "Do you think I can''t? I''m a qualified Special Force officer! I can make people remember their past lives. This is nothing." She looked very proud of herself when she said it.

    Hysonughed out loud, "I don''t think there is a need for Major Xiang Wai to get involved. I''m afraid the patient might die in your hands."

    "Do I look like an executioner?" asked Xiang Wai in dissatisfaction. "I was just gonna do some memory exercises with her. Nothing else."

    "As if I''d believe that," said Hyson. "There is only one person in the Xiang family who likes to solve things with words and that''s Raelle. And that is also because getting physical is considered troublesome to her. And the rest of the Xiang family is prone to violence rather than using their words. In fact, none of you are even good with words." He even gave them a stinky eye as if he was looking down at them right now.

    How audacious!

 Chapter 765 Too Good

    Chapter 765 Too Goodˇˇˇˇ*p!*

    Well, that was the sound both Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin heard in their mind after listening to Hyson. It was like a face p of reality. A brutal reality check! He just despised them and didn''t even bother hiding it!

    Wow! This one definitely had guts.

    "Are you really despising us right now?" questioned Xiang Wai with her quick temper. "Boy, you think I won''t beat you?"

    Hyson smirked at her because of course he knew Xiang Wai couldn''t beat him. Okay, he won''t be a match for someone like her who was not only professionally trained but also had field experience. Much less beating, she must have killed people in her career as well. How could he be a match for her ruthless style of fighting?

    But Hyson''s confidence came from the fact that he came home with Mu Chenyan. With his Yanyan around, he was a well-protected baby. Who dares to even yell at him? Even his own mother will think twice before saying anything to him.

    "Point is made, Your Honor!" said Hyson as he acted exaggeratedly. "This is Major Xiang Wai from the Xiang family. The first one to lose her temper regardless of the situation. Always resorts to violence first. Because ording to her, if things can be solved with fists why waste the breath? In fact, her thinking aligns with her aunt Mu Chenyan."

    Xiang Weimin chuckled at the side while Xiang Wai gritted her teeth wanting to bite some flesh off of him. But she couldn''t do that. So, she walked over and raised her hand to touch his hair. He leaned his head backward to avoid her touch as he said, "Major, no touching my hair. That''s violence against my hair."

    Provoked like that, Xiang Wai used both her hands to muss up his hair while he gaped at her in disbelief. He ran to find a mirror and looked at his messed-up head. He walked back to her and pointed at her, "Can''t you use your words? How can you be so cruel to my poor hair? What did they do? How did they wrong you?"

    Even Xiang Weimin was taken aback when he saw Xiang Wai acting so childishly to take her revenge. When did his sister be so childish? Her temper wasn''t the best of all but she wasn''t this petty either. He couldn''t believe that she wanted to mess with Hyson like this. But rather than stopping them, he was amusingly watching everything unfold before his eyes.

    Xiang Wai smugly dusted her hands saying, "Didn''t you say that we are bad with words? How can I use my words to reason with you then? I have to use my hands. In fact, I think I still have something I forgot to try."

    As she took a step over, Hyson took a step back vigntly, "What? What do you want now?"

    "Why are you running away?" asked Xiang Wai. "Aren''t you very brave? Stand right there."

    "Do I look like a fool to you?" retorted Hyson. "Why should stand there and wait for you? I, Hyson aka Yue Fai aka Yanyan''s little cutie and Opa''s little prince, wait for no one! People wait for me instead! Huh!"

    "Pfft!"

    Xiang Wai stopped moving towards him not because of his words but because of theughter she heard and looked up to see her brotherughing loudly. In fact, even more, surprising was to see her own father leaning against the pir and chuckling as well. And then she looked back at Hyson who seemed confused.

    "Weimin Ge, why are youughing at me? I''m a star! A star, you know! When I say people wait for me, they really do!" insisted Hyson.

    "I believe you," said Xiang Weimin.

    Hyson pouted with a frown between his brows. That appearance of Xiang Weimin really wasn''t convincing enough. What do you mean by you believe me? You obviously don''t mean that! At least, put more effort into acting like you really mean those words.

    "No, you don''t," said Hyson. "I''m telling you, I''m not lying. Forget about people, I''m the only person who can even make Raelle Xiang wait for me. How can you doubt me right now?"

    Xiang Weimin''s smile didn''t disappear as he nodded, "You''re super cool!"

    "Although I don''t feel the sincerity behind those words, I''ll still dly take thepliment," said Hyson.

    "What are you showing off?" asked Xiang Wai. "Just that you have a better rtionship with our sister?"

    "So what if I am?" Although that wasn''t Hyson''s purpose, he didn''t mind irking Xiang Wai. This Major really had a bone to pick with him and didn''t mind ying with her either. Did he look like a cute puppy to her? Okay, he did look like one but he was the cute puppy who knew how to bite as well!

    "Come here and I''ll tell you," said Xiang Wai.

    Hyson stuck out his tongue in response, "Why should I go over? Do you think I haven''t figured you out? You''re easier to understand than Raelle. You''re violent, short-tempered, let your emotions get the best of you, like sweet things but eat spicy ones to find reasons to hide your tears,petitive and don''t like to lose, proud and impulsive, andstly, you''re a sis-con!"

    Xiang Weimin''s lips parted as he stared at Hyson in surprise. Wow! He really figured out Xiang Wai too easily. Even Xiang Wai couldn''t say anything for a moment. Especially about her liking for sweet things. How did he know?

    Hyson smirked proudly at her, "I told you, I have good eyesight. So, you better not underestimate me."

    Xiang Weimin gave him a round of apuse, "Fai, you''re too good!"

    Hyson was like a kid who gotplimented and generously epted thepliment, not even feeling embarrassed at all. He knew he was too good. Although he didn''t need any validation from others, it was still good to hear it once in a while.

 Chapter 766 Old & Scary

    Chapter 766 Old & ScaryˇˇˇˇHyson turned to Xiang Weimin and said, "Weimin Ge, although I lovepliments, I have to say, you''re also a sis-con."

    Xiang Weimin felt like he was being shot while lying down. What did he do now? As he raised his brow at Hyson, thetter exined, "It''s too obvious. You both don''t even try to hide it."

    One was here getting news about Raelle''s health and the affairs of the hospital and the other was ready to throw hands for her sister with the ex-wife. Did they really try to hide that they were sis-cons? And this was only one example!

    Xiang Hulin who had been standing aside, listening to everything suddenly walked over and said, "Yue Fai is very smart. You can really see things clearly."

    Hyson rubbed his nose saying, "Right, I know I''m very talented."

    "You sure are," stated Xiang Hulin. Then he turned to his own son, "Lieutenant Colonel Xiang Weimin!"

    Xiang Weimin who waszing on the couch shot up and gave him a salute, "Yes, General!"

    "Follow me," ordered Xiang Hulin. "I have something to discuss with you." Then his eyes gentled as he looked at Hyson and said, "Yue Fai, you must be tired. Don''t forget to take a rest. And if they bully you, let me know."

    Xiang Wai was looking at Hyson who said, "No, I''m fine for now. I can protect myself. I don''t get bullied anymore."

    Xiang Wai''s eyes narrowed at the words, ''Not anymore.'' She looked at him once again while Xiang Hulin strode away.

    "Ge, what did you do?" asked Xiang Wai. "Papa just called your full name. Did you mess up at work?"

    Xiang Weimin looked at his sister, "Are you now looking for your own brother''s gossip?"

    Xiang Wai shrugged her shoulder, "Can''t be helped."

    Xiang Weimin sighed and went to follow his father. Behind him, he heard two people''s voices.

    "Fighting, Ge!"

    "Hold the ground, Lieutenant!"

    He tsked at those two who were actually acting like kids.

    "Is he gonna get disciplined?" asked Hyson curiously.

    "You never know," said Xiang Wai. "Well, actually, Papa usually doesn''t get involved with our affairs. Even if we got into trouble, he won''t help us out indiscriminately. But he won''t let anyone bully us either." She stared at Hyson and added, "And now I know why. He didn''t want us to turn out to be a spoiled brats like you."

    "Hey! Who are you calling a brat?"

    "Whoever answered!"

    "Huh! That''s so childish!"

    "So what? I have to deal with kids the way they understand.''

    "Who are you calling a kid?!"

    "Whoever answered!" She said just the way he did.

    "Copycat!" retorted Hyson.

    "You''re a kid!" She insisted.

    "Thanks for the reminder, Old grandma!"

    "Do I look old to you?"

    "Yeah, and also scary!" retorted Hyson before he ran away. He stopped at the flight of stairs and said, "By the way, lose the frown. You''re already scary enough."

    "If you have the guts, stop there and let me show you what scary is!" she shouted behind him.

    "I don''t have the guts!" his voice came back from upstairs.

    She was left feeling stifled. What the hell! How can he so easily ept that he has no guts?! Who does that?!

    Of course, she wasn''t used to this style after spending so much time with proud soldiers who rather die than admit defeat. So, she was really in aplicated mood now. He started a fire and then ran away!

    While she was feeling this way, Yue Yue ced a hand on her arm and said, ''My son is a little silly. Don''t take his words seriously.''

    Now, that was something hard for Xiang Wai to do. Who said he was silly? That was definitely a disguise. That boy was sly and slippery like a loach! Don''t take his words seriously? What to do when all his words were brutal truths that shot at her heart? This was really looked for a fight. No wonder she didn''t like him at first sight.

    "Aunt Yue, you think he is silly?" asked Xiang Wai. "I think he is very smart."

    "True!" came Mu Chenyan''s voice. "He is Raelle''s best friend. How silly do you think he can be? If he wasn''t so smart, how will he be able so in sync with Raelle''s thoughts?" She took a pause and added, "It''s just that, my little cutie loves to act silly. No, in fact, he gets a little silly around people he feelsfortable. In front of outsiders, he definitely very restrained."

    Yue Yue gave her a look and questioned, ''Really? Restrained? And Fai?''

    Mu Chenyan coughed softly, "Don''t be like that, Yue. My little Fai is very good. How can you have anyints with him?"

    Yue Yue rolled her eyes thinking how it was very useless to haveints anyway. Not like Mu Chenyan was gonna listen. She was tantly biased. No one could do anything regarding that.

    ''Can''t you let me talk to Wai?''

    "Oh," responded Mu Chenyan but then she said, "Forget it. I''ll exin your meaning to Wai." She turned to her niece and said, "Dear niece, it''s like this. What your aunt Yue wants to say is that, although our Fai talks very straightforwardly, you don''t have to take his words to heart. Yes, his words can be hurtful but don''t take them personally. He is another copy of Raelle. He has a poisonous tongue as well."

    "Where did they get it from?" asked Xiang Wai.

    Yue Yue gave Mu Chenyan a look who scratched her neck.

    ''Isn''t it all thanks to this one?''

    Xiang Wai looked at her aunt and gave her a knowing smile. Mu Chenyan smiled back weakly and said, "I can swear that I had put a lock on my poisonous tongue for years. I never used it before those two and always acted sweet with them. I don''t know where they still learned being so poisonous with their words."

    "He said, no one in our family is good with words," said Xiang Wai.

    Mu Chenyan nodded solemnly, "Where is the lie, sweetie? Leaving Raelle aside, none of us are actually good with words."

    Xiang Wai almostughed out loud at how easily her aunt epted those words. But then again, maybe she should also ept it. After all, she also understood that none of them were good with words.

 Chapter 767 So Boring

    Chapter 767 So BoringˇˇˇˇXiang Wai and Hyson were so loud that perhaps, everyone in the house heard their bickering. At least, Xiang Weimin heard it even though he was inside the room standing before his father. As always, the pressureing from his father was really high. And the silence was even worse.

    Good thing was that he was already used to it all since he was a kid. It wasn''t that his father had been very strict with him. After all, Xiang Weimin spent more time on the training grounds than at home even when he was young. But whenever he sat down to eat with his father, thetter would always have an intimidating aura.

    For now, he was actually wondering why he was called by his father like that?

    "Do you know why I called you here?" asked Xiang Hulin.

    Xiang Weimin had a thoughtful look but still shook his head, "I''m not sure, dad." He took a pause and added, "But it''s certainly not for a heart-to-heart because that doesn''t suit our rtionship."

    Well, he wasn''t all that wrong. This father and son had a very formal rtionship. At least, it seemed formal to everyone. But the truth was that they both just were never all that good with words. Even though they were father and son, they didn''t even know what to talk to each other about. Both were more simr than they cared to admit.

    "I see you''ve learned to joke now," said Xiang Hulin.

    Xiang Weimin licked his lips and sighed, "What is it about, dad?"

    "You asked to shorten your recuperating period?"

    Xiang Weimin was stunned for a moment and avoided his eyes.

    Xiang Hulin was really angry from the moment he learned about this. His son''s injuries had yet to be healed and he was already thinking about going back to his duty? "Do you think you''d always be this lucky?"

    "If I didn''t get back, I won''t be able to take part in..."

    "You shut up for me!" Xiang Hulin didn''t let him evenplete his sentence because he already knew where his son was going with this. "Is your life more important or your duty?"

    "Duty!" answered Xiang Weimin without missing a beat.

    Argh! Xiang Hulin felt like his blood pressure was shooting up because of his son. And he couldn''t do anything about it as well. After all, he couldn''t say that he didn''t agree with his son''s words. What a tricky situation!

    "If you won''t take care of your health, how will you serve your country and its people?" argued Xiang Hulin. "If you went back to duty like this, you''ll only drag everyone down. And you''ll let down yourrades in arms. Have you thought about that?" He sighed and asked him, "Stop being so stubborn."

    "How can I stop being stubborn when it''s our blood?" retorted Xiang Weimin.

    Xiang Hulin gave him a look before saying, "I think you stayed under the snow for far too long. Your brain is frozen. Don''t think so much and stay right where you are. You''ve finally gotten a chance to bond with your grandfather, are you that eager to run away?"

    Xiang Weimin firmly denied that "No way. That''s not my intention."

    "Then what is your intention? You barely managed to stand on your feet again. There is a long road to full recovery. Don''t move around so much."

    "It''s very rare for you to lecture me," said Xiang Weimin looking a little suspicious.

    "Shouldn''t I even do that? If I had done that before, you wouldn''t be so out of control."

    "I''m out of control?" repeated Xiang Weimin. "How?"

    "It''s definitely not me who is always looking for death," retorted Xiang Hulin. "I know you are a thrill seeker and that''s why you joined the Air Force as well. However, it''s the first time in years, I have all my family together. I don''t want you to create any trouble at this time."

    "Dad, you''re so boring,"mented Xiang Weimin.

    "You''re no better," was Xiang Hulin''s response.

    "Was that all you wanted to say?"

    "Yes."

    Xiang Weimin nodded his head and then mentioned, "Dad, do you know Yue Fai said our Xiang family is not good with words. He also said we are very violent."

    "And you think he is wrong?" asked Xiang Hulin as he raised his brow at his son.

    "No, I just realized how right he is," said Xiang Weimin. "Apparently, he can figure us out better than we ever could."

    "That''s because that child has a very keen perception," said Xiang Hulin. "He is valued by Raelle so much. And for someone of her IQ to value someone, it wouldn''t be that simple."

    Xiang Weimin looked at his father and said, "I have a very bold guess about Yue Fai''s identity."

    "Keep it to yourself," replied Xiang Hulin. "It doesn''t concern you. And as long as no one speaks of his identity out loud, we can all pretend to be dumb. You understand?"

    Xiang Weimin squinted, "Dad, you''re gonna lie to your friend? That''s not what you taught me."

    "I''m not lying to anyone," said Xiang Hulin righteously. "I''m just choosing to not say anything at all."

    Xiang Weimin shrugged as he turned to leave but stopped at the door and said, "Oh, by the way, I forgot to mention. Yue Fai is gonna help me look for a life partner."

    "I heard," Xiang Hulin had an amusing smile on his face. "Why are you telling me this though? Want me to start preparing for your wedding?"

    "You? Do you even know what to prepare for a wedding? Besides, it hasn''t gotten to that point yet."

    "Tsk. I shouldn''t have expected more from an ascetic monk like you."

    Xiang Weimin gaped at his father, "You of all people shouldn''t be saying that. You''re one of the biggest reasons why I''m single." With that, he walked away.

    Xiang Hulin sighed to himself and shook his head at his son. Although he understood that his divorce had a big impact on his son, he still knew that divorce wasn''t the only reason why Xiang Weimin ran away from getting into a rtionship.

 Chapter 768 Way Back Home

    Chapter 768 Way Back HomeˇˇˇˇXiang Manor was filled with bickering,ughter, and a warm atmosphere while at Zhai house, things were intense. The atmosphere was stifling and very ufortable when Zhai Yanjun came back home.

    Seeing his father''s flushed face, he helped him to sit down and offered him water. Turning to his maternal grandparents, he was also worried after seeing Old Master Yue''s condition. He didn''t look well. It seemed his father''s revtion had a big impact on the old man.

    "Grandma, why don''t you take Grandfather Yue and Grandmother Yue to their bedroom to rest?" suggested Zhai Yanjun to Grandma Zhai who hurriedly agreed. Then he looked at his grandpa and added, "Grandpa, call the doctor."

    Grandpa Zhai looked at his own son who was still seething and sighed heavily. But he always listened to his grandson whom he loved even more than his own son. So, in this situation, he still followed Zhai Yanjun''s words and went to call the doctor.

    "Dad, let me take you to your bedroom," said Zhai Yanjun and took his father to his room first. "Lie down," he instructed once he put him on the bed.

    "I''m fine," said Zhai Kuijun. "I''m not tired or sick. I don''t need to lie down."

    "I don''t believe you," said Zhai Yanjun straightforwardly. "It''s better for you to lie down. Don''t make me push you down now. It''d look like I''m abusing my old father now."

    Zhai Kuijun''s lips curled up ever so slightly as his son''s joke but he still listened to him and lied down. As Zhai Yanjun was covering him with a nket, Zhai Kuijun held his wrist and said, "Sorry!"

    "Dad, what are you saying now?"

    "I lost control of my emotions and created a scene. You don''t get toe home that often already. I called you myself and let you see all of that. Maybe I should have held it in."

    Zhai Yanjun shook his head at his father, "Dad, I just recently realized, you have held in a lot of things." Zhai Kuijun looked at his son in confusion. "I feel like I never even knew the real you."

    "There is nothing like that," said Zhai Kuijun as he tried to get up but Zhai Yanjun pushed him back down.

    "Let the doctore and check up on you first."

    "Huh? It''s your grandfather who needs a doctor, not me."

    "Do you think Fai didn''t tell me about his meeting with him? Not only that, but he also told me in what condition he found you," told Zhai Yanjun. "I''m already very worried about you. So, stop doing this to me. You can''t hide things about your health."

    Zhai Kuijun suddenly felt a little more guilty. He was already feeling like he shouldn''t have lost control of himself when he knew his son wasing home. He never wanted to get his son involved in these issues. And now, he was even more guilty because he had been hiding about his health matters.

    But the mentioning of Hyson reminded him of something, "Jun, is something going on in the Xiang family?"

    Zhai Yanjun looked at his father, "Why are you asking?"

    "Things are very tense in the past two days," said Zhai Kuijun. "Even though it''s the weekend, there is a lot of movement from both the Xiang family''s side and the Shui family''s side. And let''s not even talk about the sudden downfall of the Ruan family. All of this is making me really suspicious."

    "Your friend didn''t tell you anything?" asked Zhai Yanjun as he looked at his father in surprise. It seemed as long as it didn''t involve his family, his father was very clear-headed.

    "Your mean Hulin?" asked Zhai Kuijun and saw his son nodding in response. "No. I only greeted him at the Chen family''s banquet. Oh, I heard the Chen family is also restless after the banquet. I think something happened at that banquet. What do you know?"

    "Something did happen," said Zhai Yanjun. "Saozi had a miscarriage because of Ruan Meilin."

    "What?!" Zhai Kuijun was shocked. "What happened? How is she?" He couldn''t believe it at all. He met Raelle at the banquet and they even had a conversation where she removed him from her unwanted people''s list. How did that lovely girl have such a thing happen to her? He suddenly came over with grief.

    "She is doing fine now," told Zhai Yanjun. "Don''t worry about her. She is stronger than you think."

    "What about Shui Xian?"

    "He..." Zhai Yanjun sighed. "He is the one who is worrying me. Although he looks fine, I am not able to rx from his side. I''m afraid this has hit him worse than anyone else."

    "Poor Xian,"mented Zhai Kuijun. "I should go to see them."

    "Stay right where you are," said Zhai Yanjun in a stern voice. "This isn''t the time for you to run around. I told you to stay here and wait for the doctor. We will discuss the rest once the doctor says you''re fine."

    "I know myself better."

    Zhai Yanjun clearly wasn''t having any of that.

    "Tsk. I can''t believe Hulin didn''t tell me any of this."

    "General must be too excited so he forgot all about you," chuckled Zhai Yanjun.

    "Huh? Why''d he be excited over this?"

    "Because it''s a blessing in disguise for him," said Zhai Yanjun. "Granduncle Xiang asked him toe home. Don''t you think he''d be excited?"

    "Oh..." responded Zhai Kuijun. No wonder he heard nothing from his best friend. How would he? His best friend finally got the ticket home. How would he even remember anyone else at this time? He actually felt happy for his friend who had been yearning to go home for years. Although he looked fine, Zhai Kuijun knew that Xiang Hulin was feeling like a kite with a broken string all along. He had been wandering for too long all on his own. And he finally found his way back home.

    Seeing that his father was looking better than before, Zhai Yanjun hesitated before asking, "Dad... Can I ask you something?"

    "Hm? What is it about?"

    "It''s about my Ayi. Aunt Yue Yue."

 Chapter 769 Never Forgot

    Chapter 769 Never ForgotˇˇˇˇZhai Kuijun looked a little lost. He continued to stare at his son with a nk expression before he asked, "You remember her?"

    Zhai Yanjun nodded, "I never forgot."

    "But you said you didn''t remember..." Zhai Kuijun didn''t continue as everything became clear to him. From the moment, his son started changing, he had stopped talking about his Aunt Yue Yue, and whenever someone even asked, he''d say he didn''t remember her. But it seemed he never forgot.

    Even as a kid, he knew he had to protect himself, and to protect himself from his mother, he chose to lie and pretend that the Aunt whom he loved so much wasn''t even in his memory anymore. In fact, most people even thought that Zhai Yanjun had no memories of his early childhood at all.

    "Do you me me for lying?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    Zhai Kuijun shook his head, "Not at all. Why would I me you? I don''t think even Little Yue would have med you if she was to know about it."

    "Yes, she won''t," agreed Zhai Yanjun with a soft smile that he hid very well but couldn''t hide the sweetness in his voice. He already knew how his aunt was, how could a sweet person like her me him for anything? He was afraid that that sweetdy might not even me his own mother for whatever she did to her.

    And that''s why it hurt him more.

    He knew how good his aunt was but he couldn''t understand why his mother seemed to hate her so much? He couldn''t understand it at all. And today, he was even more baffled when he saw how his grandmother stood up for his mother even though his grandmother is actually his aunt''s biological mother!

    This was all so messed up, that he wasn''t able to stop himself from being curious. He wanted someone to give him answers. He knew he couldn''t just ask his Aunt Yue for answers straightforwardly, it''d hurt her and he didn''t want to hurt her at all. All she gave him was love whether it was when he was a little boy or now when he was all grown up. How could he bring himself to hurt her at all?

    She was someone who always gave him the warmth that hecked and always weed him with open arms. Meeting her all over again was like he finally found his home. A home that wasn''t filled with his mother''s nonstop tantrums and screaming. A home where his father wasn''t always depressed and silent.

    The home that his Aunt Yue gave him was only filled with love, care, andughter. Oh, and some silly bantering with Hyson. But whichever vor it was, he loved all of it.

    "What do you remember about your Aunt?" asked Zhai Kuijun.

    "I remember that she loved me very much," answered Zhai Yanjun. "She''d y with me, cook my favorite food for me, take me out, make clothes for me, and even sing me lubies in her sweetest voice. In fact, wherever I was supposed to see my own mother, I only found her standing there smiling at me and encouraging me." When Zhai Yanjun talked about the lubies she used to sing to him, he felt his heart ache at the reminder that he''d never be able to hear them anymore. So what if he found his Aunt again? He''d never be able to hear her voice again.

    But Zhai Yanjun, at the moment, didn''t even realize how lucky he was. At least, he still had a memory of how his Aunt''s voice sounded. Her own son only got to hear his mother''s voice through an old recording. And even now, he kept that recording on his phone and listen to it whenever he found the chance. As if he''d never get tired of hearing his mother''s voice. Or perhaps, Hyson just wanted to make up for the silence that had shrouded his childhood by deceiving himself with that recording.

    Zhai Kuijun hummed, "Indeed, she really loved you." He shook his head, "She even forgot her friend, me, after you were born. She''d always find a way to run back from her college ande to find you. And yes, she loved designing clothes for you as well. In a way, she definitely treated you as her personal child model."

    Zhai Yanjun smiled softly when he heard that from his father.

    With a sigh, Zhai Kuijun asked, "What do you want to know about her? I''ll tell you whatever I know for now."

    Zhai Yanjun turned serious and asked, "Then let''s start with, why does it seem like grandmother hates Aunt Yue? Isn''t she the one who gave birth to her?"

    "She indeed Yue''er''s birth mother but she had always been biased," stated Zhai Kuijun straightforwardly.

    "But why?" asked Zhai Yanjun. He couldn''t understand it at all.

    "Do you know that your mother hates Old Madam Yue?" asked Zhai Kuijun and Zhai Yanjun nodded his head in response. "Do you know why?"

    "I heard her using grandmother repeatedly that she was the reason why my real grandmother died. She called grandmother Yue a mistress."

    "But that''s not true," answered Zhai Kuijun. "The one who brought Old Madam Yue into Old Master Yue''s life was in fact, thete Madam Yue." Zhai Yanjun raised his brow at his father''s revtion. "Late Madam Yue had cancer and she started fighting it from the moment Yue Lan was born. To take care of young Yue Lan, thete Madam Yue brought her distant cousin into the family. And the person is the current Old Madam Yue, Yue Yue''s mother."

    "Then was grandmother really a mistress?"

    Zhai Kuijun shook his head, "Nope. She was just indebted to Madam Deng, thete matriarch of the Yue family. Old Madam Yue''s family wasn''t as well off as Madam Deng''s even though they were cousins. But Madam Deng''s parents helped Old Madam Yue''s family and that''s how they technically bought the loyalty of Old Madam Yue and her parents. So, when her dying cousin held her hands and asked her to marry her husband, Old Madam Yue had no way to back out."

 Chapter 770 [Bonus chapter] Pitiful

    Chapter 770 [Bonus chapter] PitifulˇˇˇˇZhai Yanjun''s eyes widened a little when he heard that.

    "You see, Yue Lan really liked Old Madam Yue when she was young. After all, because of her meticulous and demure nature and adding on the loyalty and indebtedness she had towards Madam Deng, Old Madam Yue did her best to be a good nanny to young Yue Lan whocked the love and presence of her mother in her life. But it was because that Yue Lan trusted and loved Old Madam Yue so much that Madam Deng hade to a decision to get Old Madam Yue married to her own husband."

    Zhai Kuijun couldn''t tell if the decision was right or not. What he did know was that Madam Deng wasn''t all that nice either.

    "But she took a promise from Old Madam Yue. It was that once Old Madam Yue married Old Master Yue, she would not have a child of her own ever!"

    Zhai Yanjun''s heart chilled when he heard that. That was a very cruel promise.

    "The worst part about this promise was that Old Madam Yue was neither interested in marrying Old Master Yue nor was she willing to give up her right to give birth to her own child in this life. But she was the weak party in this bargain. She was meant to lose from the beginning. So, in the end, she had to agree but she asked for a two years time period. She said it wasn''t right for her to marry her cousin''s husband right after her cousin''s death. In truth, she wanted to use that time to stall."

    Zhai Yanjun was feeling ufortable listening to this.

    "In those two years, she kept her distance from Yue Lan. She believed once she took a step back, maybe Yue Lan won''t even need a stepmother. But it didn''t work, Yue Lan fell ill and kept missing Old Madam Yue more than her own mother who was already dead at that time. But the ironic thing is, when Old Master Yue brought Old Madam Yue home as his wife and Yue Lan''s stepmother, the same girl started to hate Old Madam Yue. Who knows who told her that Old Madam Yue was having an affair with Old Master Yue when Madam Deng was alive and that''s why the poor woman wasn''t able to win her battle with cancer."

    Now, Zhai Yanjun actually understood why his mother never had anything good to say about Old Madam Yue.

    "But Dad, what does this have to do with grandmother''s hatred towards Aunt Yue?" inquired Zhai Yanjun. He understood why his mother hated his grandmother but he still didn''t get why his grandmother hated her own daughter.

    "Are you not paying attention, son?" asked Zhai Kuijun. "Old Madam Yue gave a promise to her dying cousin to never have a child of her own. Most people say Yue Yue''s birth was a mistake. Old Madam Yue definitely never nned on having her own child. There was no love between her and Old Master Yue anyway. So, Yue Yue''s arrival was very unexpected. When she learned about the pregnancy, she went for an abortion immediately. During that time, Yue Lan''s attitude was softening up towards Old Madam Yue once again. But once Yue Yue came into the picture, things got worse."

    He felt so ufortable just talking about this mess.

    "In fact, Old Madam Yue wanted to do an abortion back then. It''s just that the doctor in the hospital knew Old Master Yue and informed him. And Old Master Yue didn''t think it was right to kill an unborn child. That''s how Yue Yue finally managed to be born. But the little her didn''t even know, that''s where her tragic life was about to begin.

    Yue Lan didn''t want Old Madam Yue to pay more attention to the newborn baby. She was after all young and thought that she''d lose the love that Old Madam Yue had for her. So, she always kept Old Madam Yue away from Yue Yue. And that''s why even until she was an adult, Yue Yue had never been close to her mother. But she was very close to her father. Her father was her everything. She admired him, respected him, loved him, feared him, all in all, she was a fangirl of her father. ording to her, no one was better than her father."

    "And mom never liked the fact that grandfather loved Aunt Yue so much?"

    Zhai Kujun nodded in agreement to his son''s words, "Indeed. She never liked it. But since Yue Yue was 8 years younger than Yue Lan, she was like the little baby of Old Master Yue. She was soft and had her mother''s temperament. She was an obedient and very well-behaved child. I don''t think anyone could hate her. But Yue Lan had topete in everything with her."

    "Mom really loves topete,"mented Zhai Yanjun.

    "In fact, she never should have," said Zhai Kuijun. "There was no need forpetition at all. Because from the beginning, Old Madam Yue loved Yue Lan more. Even if she didn''t give birth to her, she raised her from a young. So, even when she gave birth to her own daughter, all she felt was guilty that she couldn''t keep the promise. And because of that guilt, Yue Yue was ignored. As for Old Master Yue, even though he loved Yue Yue, he loved Yue Lan even more. After all, he really loved Madam Deng. Marrying Old Madam Yue was just apromise. Yue Lan was the result of love, Yue Yue wasn''t. But maybe because Old Master Yue knew that he didn''t love Old Madam Yue, he tried to love Yue Yue even more."

    "Then don''t you think Aunt Yue Yue was very pitiful?"

    "What does it matter if I think so?" retorted Zhai Kuijun. "The person involved never thought she was pitiful at all." He looked into his son''s eyes and told him, "Yue''er never thought she was the pitiful one at all."

 Chapter 771 Just A Facade

    Chapter 771 Just A FacadeˇˇˇˇZhai Kuijun was speaking the truth when he said that Yue Yue never really thought she was the pitiful one. Although she was supposedly a shy and weak person, her strongest point was her kindness and her optimism. She always found something to be happy about. Something to keep her going.

    If it wasn''t because of that trait, Yue Yue might have really taken her life when everything seemed too hard to bear. But she found she was pregnant in that darkest time and that one thing was enough for her to keep going once again.

    "Dad, if you knew everything about mom, why did you fall for her?" asked Zhai Yanjun feeling genuinely confused. He didn''t think he''d be able to overlook everything just because he was madly in love with that person. So, how did his father do it?

    "Because I didn''t know anything until it was already toote," answered Zhai Kuijun. "The Yue Lan I met waspletely different. She was gentle, elegant, sophisticated, kind, and sweet. In fact, I didn''t even realize that Yue Lan hated her sister until it was really toote." He really had immense respect for Yue Lan when it came to this matter. That woman actually kept up a facade for far too long just to ensnare him in her love. "In front of me, she was always ying the role of a good elder sister. And Yue Yue was never the person who''din. So, she never told me anything about how she was treated by Yue Yue. In fact, I''m so vexed. She was my friend but she chose to hide things from even me. If she had told me..." He didn''tplete his sentence. Perhaps, even he didn''t know what possibilityy there.

    "Then would you have stopped loving mom?" asked Zhai Yanjun. "Maybe she thought even if she told you, you won''t believe her. Or perhaps, you''d think that she was trying to ruin your rtionship."

    "It''s possible," said Zhai Kuijun. "I can really expect anything from my younger self."

    "Dad, how did you meet Aunt Yue? You said you met her first. What do you mean by that?"

    Zhai Kuijun recalled, "I met Yue''er when I entered high school. She was only a little girl. Only 7 years old at that time. She was small and very cute. Also, she looked like she could be easily bullied. And there were always people who liked to bully her as well. If you think about it, being part of the Yue Family, she shouldn''t have to be treated like that. With her father''s status, anyone would think twice before bullying the youngest daughter of the Yue family. But for some strange reason, Yue Yue always had bullies surrounding her wherever she went."

    Zhai Yanjun frowned when he heard that.

    "I met her because of Qian Yin," added Zhai Kuijun.

    Zhai Yanjun raised his brow at his father, "You mean, Xian''s mother?"

    Zhai Kuijun nodded his head, "Yes. Although Qian Yin was rted to Yue Lan, she was closer to Yue Yue. In fact, she was like the protector of Yue Yue. Since we went to the same high school, I happened to meet Yue Yue. The little girl was sobbing pitifully. Her pretty dress was soiled but she still resiliently came to the high school to meet her Sister Yin to deliver a flower to her because it was Qian Yin''s birthday."

    Zhai Yanjun was so surprised to hear that.

    "But seeing her cry, Qian Yin went ballistic and wanted to fight everyone who bullied her. I wouldn''t me her though. I think back then, in our ss, whoever saw that adorable girl sobbing like that wanted to stand up and fight for her." He pursed his lips before adding, "And it because of those stupid bullies who never left her alone that we got acquainted. I happened toe across her getting bullied by a bunch of people and saved her. I can''t forget the way she hid behind me and looked at me with stars in her eyes once she saw how the bullies ran away. Tsk. She was so gullible. And trust people so easily. I almost felt distressed for her at that time."

    Zhai Yanjun didn''t find it difficult to believe that his Aunt Yue was gullible and very easily trusted people. Even now, it seemed like his Aunt was too trusting.

    "Over time, I became that older brother whom she thought she could depend on. Maybe that''s why her trust in me kept increasing. She didn''t like talking about her family orining, so she never told me if there was something wrong with her family. I was in college when Yue''er was the one who introduced me to her sister. Or should I say, I went to see Yue''er and Yue Lan happened to be there so the introduction happened. At that time, Yue Lan had a very lukewarm attitude towards me. In fact, I could tell she even looked down on me because I came from just a schr family. We had a status in the society but no wealth in our family. She definitely didn''t like the conditions."

    He shook his head as he added, "But when we met again, her attitude changedpletely. Back then I was young and didn''t understand. I didn''t understand why her attitude changed. I didn''t understand why she even looked down on me. However, after spending years with her, things became quite clear. She just wanted to snatch me from Yue''er. She couldn''t ept the fact that Yue''er had someone to protect her. I was such a fool to actually believe that Yue Lan really liked me."

    He really thought he was a fool. Or maybe Yue Lan''s acting was too good. She really acted like she was his ideal type. Every single thing about her reminded him of the ideal life partner he had in mind. And maybe that''s why it hurt him, even more, when he realized that all of that was just an illusion that Yue Lan created. And that is why even now, he was questioning whether Yue Lan really even liked him or it was all just for her own purpose?

 Chapter 772 Live Up To It

    Chapter 772 Live Up To ItˇˇˇˇEven Zhai Yanjun fell into a deep thought trying to understand his mother''s thoughts. What was she even doing? Why did she go so far? He really wanted to ask his mother if it was all worth it?

    Zhai Kuijun suddenly chuckled self-deprecatingly, "Now that I think about it, I can finally understand why Qian Yin said those words to me at my wedding."

    "What did she say?"

    "She said, ''Kuijun, I never thought you''re a fool. But you''re not only a fool but you''re also a blind fool. What a pity. I suddenly feel bad for you.'' And then she even gave me a sympathetic look before sighing heavily. I never understood what she meant by that. I never even understood why Qian Yin didn''t even like Yue Lan. She never even tried to hide her dislike."

    "You didn''t ask her why she didn''t like mom?"

    "I did," answered Zhai Kuijun. "She had said, ''Kuijun, take off the blindfold of love. Once you take it off, you''ll know why I dislike her.''" He suddenly had strange look on his face when he added, "I should have believed her. After all, she was someone who also once wore that blindfold of love and almost jumped down a cliff."

    "Dad, you Aunt Qian Yin, and even Uncle Shui studied in the same school and in the same college. Then howe you were not that close to them?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    Zhai Kuijun looked at his son, "Qian Yin was the goddess of the school. I definitely wasn''t in her league because I liked to study. Even Koshing wasn''t in her league. I only had to focus on my studies but poor Koshing had a lot of responsibilities on his shoulders. He had to learn about the family business, had to deal with the n affairs, had to keep his grades up, had to even participate in at least one sport and even ace it. He was the heir his father trained brutally. Shui Koshing hardly even had time for himself, how could he have time to make friends? We were close acquaintances only because of the friendship our fathers had. But because neither he had time, nor did I. So, we never really became friends."

    He took a deep breath and added, "In this matter, I''m happy that you have Xian. Even if I and Koshing weren''t friends, you and Xian became friends and continued the friendship that your grandfathers had."

    Zhai Yanjun also agreed with that. He was also d to have a friend like Shui Xian. When hearing about their father''s youth, he suddenly felt like they had it very easy. Never did his father insist on making Zhai Yanjun a topper nor did Shui Xian''s father ever put pressure on his son. They both did whatever they wanted, unlike their fathers who seemed to have had it very tough in their days.

    Especially just hearing about Shui Koshing, he felt bad for his Uncle Shing. Poor him!

    "Dad, you really don''t know why Aunt Yue is no longer with us?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    Zhai Kuijun shook his head, "I really don''t. I''ve done everything in my power to learn about the incident of that night but I didn''t find out anything. It was actually during that time when I learned about the whole history of the Yue family and what kind of a status Yue Yue even had in that family. I also learned that the bullies that always followed Yue Yue in her life were all arranged by Yue Lan. But as I said, it was toote when I figured out everything. I was already married to her, we already had you. So, even if I knew the truth, I was helpless."

    Zhai Yanjun suddenly felt like he was the reason his father held on to that marriage for far too long. If he wasn''t there, perhaps, Zhai Kuijun had broken off the marriage long ago.

    But setting aside his parents'' matter, he was more concerned about his Aunt Yue right now. Even his father didn''t figure out anything. What the hell! How was he supposed to know what really happened to Aunt Yue? Why did she lose her voice?

    Suddenly, he thought of Hyson and asked, "Dad, did she have a boyfriend?"

    "Boyfriend?" repeated Zhai Kuijun weirdly. "No. She never dated. No, she was so young. How can she date at that time?"

    "You seem like you blocked all her prospective boyfriends," stated Zhai Yanjun.

    "I did not!" refused Zhai Kuijun. "She was shy, pretty, sweet, talented. Obviously, she had many suitors. But she rejected them on her own. It even surprised me how she never hesitated before rejecting each and every one of those suitors."

    "But she must have someone she liked?"

    Zhai Kuijun frowned and nodded, "Yes. I asked and she did tell me she liked someone. But who that someone was, that she never told me. No matter how I asked, she was not willing to say a word. But back then she was only 15 and I told her to concentrate on her studies and not fall in puppy love. It was not worth it. So, she nodded and said she''ll listen to me."

    Zhai Yanjun had a suspicion that this ''someone'' she liked was the reason why Aunt Yue was no longer with them. But who could it be? And was liking someone really that big of a crime? For a moment, he felt like his maternal family was aplete mess. A mess he wasn''t able to understand. As much as he tried to understand, that''s how much it gotplicated for him.

    Even his brain was giving up on him now. He couldn''t think anymore. The people involved had to speak. Should he try to pry open his mother''s mouth? But he didn''t even want to see her!

    Then he heard his father''s heavy sigh as he said, "In the end, whatever it was, it''s the truth that I failed her. The immense trust she had in me, I didn''t live up to it at all."

 Chapter 773 Incompetence

    Chapter 773 IpetenceˇˇˇˇZhai Yanjun looked at the depressed mood his father was in and had an impulse to tell his father that his Aunt didn''t even think about ming him. She was definitely not someone who liked to me others for her own circumstances. But he couldn''t reveal that he had met his Aunt already. However, he could still say something.

    "Dad, I don''t think she''d me you," said Zhai Yanjun. "I mean I don''t think she was the kind of a person to me others."

    Zhai Kuijun squinted at his son, "How do you know that? Even if you remember her, you''re too young to know her well."

    "It''s from what you said," he told his father with a straight face. "Didn''t you just tell me that she never evenined to you about anything or anyone? How could a person like her me others?"

    Zhai Kuijun bought that exnation and nodded his head, "True, she really wouldn''t me me. But that doesn''t mean I can stop ming myself." He closed his eyes as if he was going to rest as he said, "I told you whatever I knew. So, now you should go and check up on your grandfather. Although I have a lot of dissatisfaction with how he handled things, I have always respected him as an elder. I''d really be a sinner if anything happened to him because of my words."

    Zhai Yanjun got up to leave, "Okay. Then you rest well. I''ll send the doctor to you."

    When he walked out of the room, he had too many thoughts running in his head. Honestly speaking, he didn''t know who to me right now. Perhaps, everyone was guilty in the Yue family. And maybe, his father was right. He was also guilty. But the iron-d truth was that no matter who was wrong or right, the victim of it all was one. And that was Yue Yue.

    Thinking about his aunt, he had a bitter smile on his lips. She was the victim who was spurned by everyone who was supposed to love her, protect her, give her warmth, and be herfort. But that victim didn''t lose herself to darkness even in her darkest times. She was still dazzling like the sun who was capable of warming up his heart.

    Weak? Pitiful?

    Nah!

    Zhai Yanjun would rather say that his aunt was a very strong woman. It was difficult to maintain your kindness in this sweet world but she managed it. Seeing it this way, it wasn''t that hard to ept that she gave birth to someone like Hyson who was seemingly very pure and innocent. Of course, he loved to act sly but deep down he was also just a kind and pure soul. The apple didn''t fall far from the tree.

    "Doctor," Zhai Yanjun called out to the doctor who came out of the guestroom. "How is my grandfather?"

    "Old Master Yue''s blood pressure is high," answered the doctor seriously. "He is under a lot of stress. I advise you to take care of him. He is already old and his health isn''t very good. If he didn''t stop being so depressed, the consequences can be dire."

    Zhai Yanjun''s expression turned serious and he nodded, "I understand, doctor. Can you please check up on my dad as well?"

    The doctor agreed and went to Zhai Kuijun''s bedroom.

    Zhai Yanjun stood outside the guestroom and wanted to go inside. But the voicesing from inside stopped him in his track.

    "Master, you should stop thinking about whatever Kuijun said," said Old Madam Yue inside the room as she shed tears sitting on the bed beside Old Master Yue who looked rather frail and ill.

    "How can I stop thinking about it all?" an aged and hoarse voice replied. "What he said was the truth. Maybe he was right, it was because I loved Yuezi[1] so much that Lan''er became hostile to her. So what if I loved Yuezi? I never had time to even see how my daughter was being treated by everyone." He paused for a moment before adding, "No wonder, Yuezi never tried to contact us again. When she needed her father''s protection, her father wasn''t there for her."

    "Master, you were always working for the sake of the family," said Old Madam Yue. "Yuezi would never me you for anything. She loved you the most. And I''m sure she knew you trusted her. You only had to ask her to leave to protect her."

    Old Master Yue shook his head, "No. I don''t think she knew at all. If I had shown a little trust in her that night, she''d havee back to look for me. But she hid so well that even her father can''t find her after all these years."

    Zhai Yanjun had never heard such helplessness in his maternal grandfather''s voice. He was a person who always stood at the top. He never had bowed his head before anyone. So, hearing that vulnerability in his voice now, Zhai Yanjun was momentarily lost.

    "I''m the father who made my own daughter homeless," Old Master Yue was saying. "I made her an orphan even though her parents are still alive. So, tell me, is Kuijun really wrong in saying that it''s all my fault?"

    "Master, you can''t me yourself like this," said Old Madam Yue. "We all know you just wanted to protect Yuezi."

    "But isn''t that just shows how ipetent I had been as a father?" retorted Old Master Yue. "I had to throw my own daughter out of the house to protect her. That really proves how ipetent I had been."

    Zhai Yanjun knew he shouldn''t eavesdrop right here. It was wrong. He was an upright soldier, it went against his morals. But he really couldn''t help it. Even when he wanted to turn around to leave, his feet didn''t listen to him and stay rooted outside the door.

    [1] "Yuezi": Adding ''Zi'' at the end of a name is a form of endearment. Just like we use ''er''.

 Chapter 774 [Bonus chapter]

    Chapter 774 [Bonus chapter]ˇˇˇˇ"Yuezi is gone," said Old Madam Yue in a serious voice. "You should stop thinking about her."

    "Louxue, I think you should listen to Kuijun. Don''t ever say she is gone. Even I''m not willing to ept that my daughter is gone. How can you even speak about it so lightly as a mother?" He suddenly sighed, "Oh, I forgot. You always just wanted to be Lan''er''s mother. Yuezi was never a daughter to you. She was just a reminder that you broke your promise."

    Old Madam Yue lowered her head and chuckled strangely, "It''s easier for you to say that, Master. But the only reason why I didn''t want Yuezi to be born was that I knew she''d never be Yue Lan''s match. No matter how outstanding my Yuezi be, she''d never be able to outshine Yue Lan. Because my Yuezi didn''t have a backer like the Deng n. From the moment I knew I was pregnant, I knew what''d be the destiny of that child. You have no idea, how scared I had been in those nine months thinking about what if the child is a boy? What will I do if Yue Lan''s ce is threatened?

    But at the same time, I didn''t want to give birth to a daughter as well. Because a daughter will be even weaker than a son and won''t be able to protect herself. I devoted my life to Yue Lan in hopes that she''d forget that my Yuezi even existed. But in the end, what happened? I lost my daughter. And even until this day, Yue Lan isn''t willing to call me mother or even respect me. Even servants who serve you loyally for years are treated better than I had been treated."

    Old Master Yue stayed quiet when heard that. He was actually surprised that for the first time, even this wife of his was willing to speak up her mind and show her dissatisfaction. She''d always keep it to herself. When he first married her, even the servants in the Yue n didn''t give her the respect she deserved as his wife. And perhaps, they didn''t respect her even now.

    "You didn''t just fail as a father, you failed as a husband to me as well," said Old Madam Yue. "But have you ever seen meining? Sadly, the daughter I gave birth to was exactly like me. She''d neverin about how wronged she felt. And that''s why I told you, you shouldn''t me yourself. That silly girl would not want you to do so. As I said, she loved you the most. If anything happened to you because of her, she won''t be able to forgive herself. So, please, take care of yourself."

    Old Master Yue suddenly felt like this was the first time his second wife spoke so much to him in their years of marriage. But she was right. He did fail her as a husband. Even if the whole world said this old couple loved each other very much. Only they knew that Old Master Yue never loved Old Madam Yue. She was just a recement for his dead wife. But this recement never got his love and neither did she get the glory that''de with the status of being the matriarch of the Yue n.

    On the other hand, Old Madam Yue knew she was a terrible mother to Yue Yue. She never denied that fact. She never even expected her daughter to even understand her. The problem was, that it seemed her daughter still figured out her mother''s situation and never evenined to her. Whenever it was needed, she''d even willingly offer her own mother to Yue Lan because, at the end of the day, she just wanted to make her sister happy.

    Old Madam Yue could onlyment in her heart at how naive her daughter was to think that she could get epted. Yue Lan never even looked at her as a sister. She only looked at her as a stumbling block in her life.

    Zhai Yanjun was in a daze for a while before he adjusted his emotions and knocked on the door. He pushed open the door and walked in, "Grandfather, how are you feeling?"

    Old Madam Yue hid her tears once she noticed Zhai Yanjun.

    "Jun," called out Old Master Yue. "Come here to grandfather."

    "Yes," Zhai Yanjun obediently came to sit beside Old Master Yue.

    "Don''t worry about grandfather," said Old Master Yue. "I''m fine. I''ll still live for a few more years."

    "Well, I only hope, you live a very long life, grandfather," said Zhai Yanjun sincerely. Even if his maternal grandfather was strict, Zhai Yanjun knew that he loved him very much. After all, he was the only grandson he had.

    Technically, there was another grandson but it was just that his Grandfather Yue didn''t know about that grandson. And he didn''t even know if there''de a day for him to know his other grandson. Zhai Yanjun didn''t know why he was having these random thoughts but he believed that if his Grandfather Yue met Hyson, he''d definitely like him who was lively and full of life.

    "Look, how tanned you are," said Old Master Yue. "I told you army is a tough job. Why did you have to suffer like this?"

    Zhai Yanjun smiled at his grandfather, "I don''t think I''m suffering. It was hard when I was just a new recruit. Now, I''m already a captain. I have it a lot easier. And if nothing goes wrong, by next year, I''ll get another promotion. I''ll make you proud."

    "Don''t work so hard," said Old Master Yue.

    "You don''t have to worry about me at all," said Zhai Yanjun. "I''m still young. I can handle some hard work. But you... You''re old now. You should rest more. And... Don''t think about what Dad said. He just lost control of his emotions for a moment."

    "What makes you think you have to speak up for your father?" asked Old Master Yue. "Even if I''m dissatisfied with the fact that he divorced Lan''er, I can understand him as well. As a father, I''m just unreconciled."

 Chapter 775 Blind Feelings

    Chapter 775 Blind FeelingsˇˇˇˇZhai Yanjun didn''t say anything to defend his father in front of his grandfather. He didn''t think there was anything he had to say right now. No matter what he said, it''d be pointless. His mind was in turmoil anyway. He didn''t think he''d be able to speak rationally right now. He might also lose control of his emotions like his father did earlier.

    So, after knowing that his grandfather was doing fine, he left the guestroom. He recalled the conversation between his grandparents and snickered. It seemed even if they knew the truth, they turned a blind eye to everything.

    Did they say they were protecting his aunt?

    He sneered at that because he wasn''t able to think like that at all. How could he? He couldn''t seem to ept that his own grandparents were so biased. And he didn''t even know his mother was so obsessed with her position as the heiress of the Yue n. Was it really that much of a big deal? Was all that worth it? Ruining someone''s whole life for the sake of your own glory and to protect your own interests?

    Zhai Yanjun thought he shouldn''t even be surprised to know all this about his mother. After all, the woman who didn''t pity her own son was capable of anything.

    But if she hated him missing his Aunt Yue so much, then she should have tried to be a better mother to him instead of locking him in the basement for days! She didn''t even mind traumatizing her own son, how could she mind hurting a sister whom she was never even ready to ept?

    "Should we talk to Kuijun?"

    Zhai Yanjun came back to reality when he heard his paternal grandma''s voice while going back to his room.

    "What are we gonna talk to him about?" questioned Grandpa Zhai. "Don''t even think about it. Kuijun is old enough to make his own decisions. Don''t get involved in his matters."

    Grandma Zhai sounded displeased, "When did I try to get involved in his matters? I''m just worried about him. He has never lost his temper like this before."

    "Everyone has a bottom line," said Grandpa Zhai. "For years, he had been putting up with his wife''s usations. The worst kind of prison for a person is a home that is not peaceful. And from the time Kuijun got married, he had never been in peace. Isn''t that the reason you had always been dissatisfied with your daughter-inw? Yue Lan always found a reason to argue with Kuijun and that''s why you never liked her."

    "How can I?" asked Grandma Zhai looking sad. "My son was such a bright man. She became the eclipse of his life. He used tough so much but after marriage, he became so gloomy and reserved. Did he really seem like the son we raised?" She tsked to herself, "He was supposed to further his studies and be a professor but chose to be a businessman just because his wife wanted wealth and glory."

    "Keep your voice down," said Grandpa Zhai. "Don''t let Jun''er hear you. He''ll think we are bad-mouthing his mother."

    "The only reason I put up with that crazy woman had been my grandson. If she didn''t give birth to Jun''er, I''d have long thrown her out of my son''s life even if I had to be the evil mother-inw."

    Grandpa Zhai chuckled softly and rubbed his wife''s shoulders, "Okay, okay, my fierce tigress, you don''t need to tell me that. I know already why you put up with Yue Lan for so long."

    "I raised a good son, I wonder how became blind,"mented Grandma Zhai.

    "He is not blind," said Grandpa Zhai helplessly.

    "What else is he? If he wasn''t blind, why fall for that woman? If he had to choose someone from the Yue family, why not choose Yue Yue instead? Even if she was young, she was sensible."

    "Shhh!" Grandpa Zhai covered his wife''s mouth to stop her from continuing. "Would you stop talking about that?"

    Grandma Zhai pushed his hand away, "Why can''t I? Yue Yue isn''t even here but they are all still treating her like a curse. Is she the curse who ruined my son''s marriage? No! She did nothing."

    Grandpa Zhai sighed, "Yes, she did nothing. All she did was love our son silently."

    "It wasn''t a crime!" retorted Grandma Zhai. "That poor girl paid a very huge price for her feelings. And she didn''t deserve any of that!"

    Zhai Yanjun leaned against the wall with his head lowered. No one could tell what was on his mind. He stood motionless until he heard that his Aunt Yue loved his father. His fists clenched instinctively.

    "If those feelings were the reason she had to be homeless, then you''re right. She paid a very huge price for her one-sided love," agreed Grandpa Zhai with a sigh. "Keep it to yourself though. Even Kuijun doesn''t know that Yue Yue loved him."

    "Isn''t that why I said, he is blind?" retorted Grandma Zhai. "He is my son but he is an idiot. Even today, he chose to lose his temper at an old woman. Tsk. Can''t he remember that even if they are no longer his inws, they are still Jun''er''s grandparents? He still had to maintain a cordial rtionship with them for the sake of Jun''er. I don''t want my grandson to worry about these family issues. He already has so many worries at work." She became agitated as she added, "Do you realize, if he got distracted at his job because of all these issues, anything can happen to him? God forbid, bullets have no eyes. And even if we are not at war, it''s not like we live in a real peaceful world."

    "Stop speaking so negatively. Nothing will happen to our grandson," assured Grandpa Zhai.

    Zhai Yanjun pushed himself off of the wall and pushed his hands into his pocket. He took out his phone and looked at the photo he was using as his screensaver. It was a selfie he clicked with his Aunt Yue.

 Chapter 776 Pair Of Oldies

    Chapter 776 Pair Of OldiesˇˇˇˇHe didn''t stand there any longer and walked away while staring at his phone''s screen. He didn''t want to listen to his grandparents anymore. He felt like he had heard enough for today. He unlocked his phone when he came back to his room. He sat down on his bed and opened the contact list.

    His thumb hovered above the contact of his Aunt for a long while.

    After everything he heard today, he actually was feeling very uneasy. So, he wanted to find somefort and he knew he''d only find it in her.

    But he still hesitated as his grandparents'' words rang in his mind.

    Yue Yue loved Zhai Kuijun...

    Zhai Yanjun recalled what his father told him and felt like it wasn''t all that difficult to understand why his Aunt would fall for his father. She was very young when she met him. He came like a knight in shining armor who protected her from the bullies just like the story of a hero saving a damsel in distress. In that situation, she could fall in love with him at first sight. Who wouldn''t?

    But his father never realized that she was in love with him.

    While he was lost in his thoughts, his phone rang and Zhai Yanjun suddenly felt like his eyes were stinging seeing how the video call request was from his Aunt Yue. He was just thinking about her and she had already called him. Did she already know that he really needed her right now?

    He epted the video call request.

    "Ayi!" he called out trying to smile at her cheerfully.

    Yue Yue looked at his face and frowned, ''Why do you look like you''re about to cry?''

    "I''m not," denied Zhai Yanjun immediately.

    ''You sound even more suspicious,'' said Yue Yue. ''Did you get the lunch?''

    "I did," answered Zhai Yanjun. "It was delicious. Thank you! But you really don''t have to do it."

    ''It''s not like I''m sending you lunch every day,'' was Yue Yue''s response. ''I only send it to you when we make something you like to eat.''

    "It''s still too much work," said Zhai Yanjun. "Don''t always do it."

    ''Is everything okay?''

    Zhai Yanjun hummed, "Yeah, everything is fine."

    Yue Yue squinted at him suspiciously. ''Turn on all the lights so I can see your face clearly.''

    Zhai Yanjun didn''t move. There was only amp turned on in the room right now. But she could already tell he wasn''t in the right state of mind. If he turned on the other lights, she''d definitely figure out everything from his expressions.

    "I''m fine, Ayi!" he repeated again. "You tell me, how are you? And how is Fai?"

    "Mum, you ate chicken feet without me?"

    Hearing the voice of Hyson from behind Yue Yue, Zhai Yanjun''s lips curled up into a smile.

    Yue Yue looked at Zhai Yanjun, ''From his voice, you can tell he is absolutely fine.''

    Zhai Yanjun chuckled when he understood her hand signs.

    "Mum, I''m asking you a question!" Now, apart from just his voice, Zhai Yanjun could even see Hyson on his phone''s screen as he shook his mother''s arms like a baby. "That''s betrayal, mum! Betrayal! When did you be so gluttony? You couldn''t save a single piece for your one and only son? Is that my importance in your life? I don''t even deserve a single chicken foot? I thought we were the best mom-and-son duo in the world. But I never thought you''d betray me over chicken feet!"

    Yue Yue felt like she really gave birth to an overdramatic son. He really loved giving her a headache. No, he was very sensible when he was young and never even let her worry about anything. But now that he grew up, it''s as if he wants to make up for all the headaches he didn''t give her in his childhood.

    She touched his cheek before telling him, ''Your portion is saved in the kitchen. Go and ask someone to give it to you. Don''t always get dramatic with me.''

    Hyson hugged her waist and rubbed his face against her shoulder, "Oh, my mum is still the best!"

    Zhia Yanjunughed at his antics and Hyson finally noticed the video call. He looked at the screen of the iPad his mother held and narrowed his eyes. "Tsk. No wonder you want me to get lost as soon as possible. You''re talking to your new favorite."

    Yue Yue shook her head at her son, ''New favorite? He is my old favorite!''

    Hyson''s lips trembled as if he was about to cry but held himself back, "This is heartbreaking."

    "You should get over it Fai," said Zhai Yanjun. "You really can''t change the fact that I''m the old favorite. After all, I''m older than you. I came first."

    "You think that''s something to be proud about?" retorted Hyson. "Well, guess what? It only makes you old! Wait! Right, you''re just like your ex-girlfriend. Old and scary! Why did you both break up? You made such a good pair of oldies!"

    Zhai Yanjun gaped at him, "Fai! Did you call her old and scary?"

    "I did!" replied Hyson proudly. "Right at her face!"

    "And you''re still alive and well?" questioned Zhai Yanjun. "Wow! You deserve respect for that!"

    Hyson was smug hearing that, "I know, I know. I''m too good. You''re no match."

    "Right. I can never be a match," agreed Zhai Yanjun happily.

    But hearing his words, Hyson frowned and said, "You agreed too easily. What''s going on? Who bullied you? Why are you upset?"

    Zhai Yanjun was baffled by his train of thoughts that was moving as fast as ever. "Nothing is wrong with me."

    "Tsk. Don''t lie. I''m a lie detector. I can tell something is making you upset," said Hyson. "But whatever it is, don''t let it get to you. Instead of looking at the darkness in your room, you should look at thatmp that''s providing you with light. It''ll remind you that light isn''t all that far from us."

 Chapter 777 Wont Make The Cut

    Chapter 777 Won''t Make The CutˇˇˇˇZhai Yanjun was stunned when he heard Hyson''s words and then, heughed out, "What are you? Mr. Wisdom? Always spreading words of wisdom around."

    "You can never question my percipience," said Hyson.

    "How do you evene up with all of this?" questioned Zhai Yanjun as he fell on his back. He was genuinely curious about it right now. He was using one arm as his pillow while he held the phone in his other hand. He genuinely couldn''t understand how Hyson''s perception skills were so good? Just one look on the video call and he could already tell what he was going through.

    "I''m full of wisdom because I never removed my wisdom tooth," replied Hyson.

    Zhai Yanjun burst outughing when he heard that. "Does that even make sense to you, Fai?"

    "It does," responded Hyson seriously. "Do you know why wisdom teeth are called, wisdom teeth?"

    "Why don''t you enlighten me?"

    Hyson cleared his throat as if he was ready to give a presentation, "Human brain continues to grow and develop right on through adolescence. Researchers even believe that our brain doesn''t reach full maturity until the age of 25. And do you know when the wisdom teeth appear? It''s from the age of 17 to 25. The eruption of the wisdom tooth is a sign that you''ve left the carefree days of childhood and have entered the troubled times of adulthood. In other words, you''re ''wiser'' now." He took a pause and added, "So, wisdom teeth are indeed linked with wisdom. Since I still have my wisdom tooth, it means, I''m still the wiser one!"

    "I got my wisdom tooth when I was 20 but I don''t have it anymore," told Zhai Yanjun.

    "Tsk, tsk," Hyson tutted at him and added, "Even your wisdom tooth didn''t like you and ran away." He looked at his mother and questioned, "What do you like about him?"

    Yue Yue was smiling to herself seeing these two talking about such a random topic which actually was really unimportant as well. But seeing how one was happily talking and the other was happily listening, she didn''t disturb them at all. She only felt gratified looking at them. Especially her own son.

    How could she not love this dramatic son of hers?

    Even if he was full of ludicrous ideas, he was still the most sensible one. Who said he didn''t like Zhai Yanjun? Even if he wasn''t willing to give Zhai Yanjun a good face and looked for trouble all the time, at this time when he saw that his brother looked upset, he was ready to throw his hands and beat someone up for him. And even now, he was talking crazy just to put Zhai Yanjun in a good mood.

    She never thought she was a blessed person but heaven blessed her with a son like Hyson. And with him, she started to feel how fortunate she was in life.

    Hearing his question, she responded, ''I like about him, what you like about him.''

    Hyson pouted, "Who said I like him? He doesn''t even like himself. Why should I bother liking him?"

    Yue Yue rubbed her son''s head, ''Stop lying to yourself. It doesn''t suit you.''

    Hyson tsked to himself.

    "Fai!"

    "What?" Hyson looked back at the screen to see Zhai Yanjun''s smile.

    "You always keep a smile on your face," said Zhai Yanjun. "It can brighten up anyone''s day."

    "Didn''t you just say you''re the older one here?" responded Hyson making Zhai Yanjun frown in confusion but his confusion was cleared once Hyson continued, "Then as the older brother, it''s your responsibility to protect this smile of mine."

    Zhai Yanjun''s smile deepened and the gloominess between his brows faded away instantly. His eyes also cleared up as he nodded and promise, "I promise. I''ll do anything in my power to protect your smile."

    "Although I don''t need your protection, I don''t mind it either," Hyson''s inner tsundere was showing up again as he spoke amusing his mother and Zhai Yanjun. "But worry not, I''m like the sun! Even if I hide behind clouds, always remember that my warmth and light are still there."

    "You should stop before you start ascending to heaven by praising yourself so much," stated Zhai Yanjun.

    "If you continued to stop me like this, I''m definitely not gonna like you," said Hyson.

    "But you already do," retorted Zhai Yanjun. "Right, Ayi?"

    Yue Yue also nodded in agreement while Hyson could only sigh to himself. He couldn''t expect his mother to take his side, eh? But forget it. He''ll let it go for today. After all, he could see that this silly Captain needed his mother right now. Who knew what was running through his mind to make him look so broody? But whatever it was, as long as he was happy just seeing his Aunt Yue, Hyson will reluctantly lend his mother to him.

    See? How generous he was?

    He could be called the living buddha at this moment!

    Well, Hyson''s narcissism was really something else. Something no one couldpete with at all.

    "I won''t argue with you about that," said Hyson. "If it makes you happy, you can think whatever."

    "Oh, you''re so concerned about my happiness, Fai? I''m so ttered right now," Zhai Yanjun looked really touched as he ced a hand on his chest.

    Hyson rolled his eyes at him and looked at his mother, "He is also dramatic. I''m definitely not alone."

    Yue Yue really wanted to tell her son that no one couldpete with him when it came to being dramatic. Even Mu Chenyan might have to take a step back before Hyson.

    "It''s because I''m learning from you," said Zhai Yanjun.

    "Hey! Captain, as a good soldier, don''t speak whatever you want. You can''t me an innocent cutie like this. You''re the one who is learning bad things, how is it my fault? It''s not like kidnapped you to impart my skills to you." He humped, "Besides, my standards for a desciple are high. You won''t make the cut."

 Chapter 778 Spelled Your Name

    Chapter 778 Spelled Your NameˇˇˇˇZhai Yanjunughed even louder. At this time, he forgot everything else around him. He forgot whatever he heard earlier and whatever pieces of mystery he put together as well. All his mind was on Hyson and his Aunt.

    In fact, Zhai Yanjun''s condition at the moment wasn''t much different than what Shui Xian went through today. Both these friends were swept into the mysteries of the past and both were mentally devastated. But fortunately, now, they didn''t have to fight all alone.

    Shui Xian had his Raelle to protect him and Zhai Yanjun was fortunate enough to have Hyson. To Shui Xian and Zhai Yanjun, Raelle and Hyson were truly blessings. They both would have drowned in the waves of the past of their parents but the people of their present pulled them out of these waves.

    ....

    Shui Xian woke up slightlyter than his usual time. He was still holding Raelle in his arms and surprisingly, Raelle was still asleep. Shui Xian thought he woke up earlier but when he saw the time, he was shocked to find that it was already 9 o''clock in the morning. That meant, not just him, even Raelle overslept.

    He was startled awake and sat up. He checked her breathing and heaved a sigh of relief to see how her heart was beating rhythmically. But it didn''t make him feel all that better. She was someone whose body was very punctual. How could she oversleep?

    Was something wrong?

    Once this thought came into his mind, he couldn''t get rid of it and scared himself silly. So, he ended up calling the doctor to check up on her. He stood beside the doctor looking really nervous.

    "How is she? Is everything fine?" he asked immediately once the doctor was done.

    "Mr. Shui, your wife is fine," replied the doctor. "Her vitals are all normal."

    "Then why is she still sleeping?" asked Shui Xian seriously.

    The doctor was baffled by that question but he still replied, "Isn''t it normal for patients to sleep more? How else will they recover if they won''t rest well?"

    "But she has never overslept in her life," said Shui Xian. "Not even when she was a kid. So, you tell me, is this really normal?"

    The doctor pondered over his words and understood why Shui Xian was reacting this way. His worry was justified. Especially considering how much he loved his wife.

    "Mr. Shui, you really don''t have to worry about it," said the doctor. "She is just sleeping. She went through such an incident that not only would affect her body but only her mind. So, it isn''t surprising that she is sleeping more than usual. Don''t fret. She''s really fine."

    Shui Xian finally nodded his head, "Thank you so much and... Sorry to disturb you like this."

    "It''s my job," replied the doctor.

    Once the doctor left, Shui Xian went to wash up and changed his clothes. When he came out, Raelle was still asleep. He sat down beside her and held her hand as he continued to gaze at her sleeping face. Oh, it was such a rare thing to wake up before her and see her sleeping so peacefully. But her peaceful sleeping was also scary since she didn''t move in her sleep at all.

    He ced her hand against his cheek and closed his eyes.

    From yesterday to now, he had one sentence shing in his mind over and over again. ''I can hold up the sky for you.'' That''s what she told him and he engraved those words on his heart and soul. He believed those words wholeheartedly.

    He kissed her temple and continued to gaze at her lovingly. He couldn''t stop. He felt like he could just stare at her face all his life without getting bored. This was his wife. His wife! The feelings she brought into his life made him feel alive.

    Even with her unsmiling face, she had be the reason for his smile. With her around, he always wanted to smile brightly. After all, his dear wife loved his smile, loved his handsome face. All in all, she was really a face lover.

    As he was about to put her hand down on the bed, he paused. With his hand ced beside hers, he looked at the ring finger where he was wearing their wedding ring. But there was no ring on her hand, they took it off during the surgery. But one could see the faint ring lines left on her ring finger.

    It had to be the first time since he put on that wedding ring on her finger that she wasn''t wearing it. This emptiness on her ring finger was ring at his eyes.

    "What are you trying to find on my hand so intently?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian looked up and found her eyes open as she was looking at him. He didn''t know when she woke up. "I''m looking for myself. Trying to see if I can find myself on the lines of your hands."

    Raelle continued to look at him intently as she asked, "So, did you find yourself?"

    Shui Xian chuckled softly, "I don''t know how to read lines. So, I''m not sure."

    "Then you don''t have to try," said Raelle. "Those lines might not have spelled your name but I have you. And I can assure you, these lines can never define the path of my life. Only I can do that."

    Shui Xian wasn''t surprised to hear something like that from her. She was always a confident person. She never needed people to tell her what she could do, she would do what she wanted to do. How could mere lines of our hands change her life? She''d still do what she wanted to do. She really was someone willing to go against heaven for what she wanted.

    Shui Xian''s thumb rubbed against her empty ring finger of hers. Right where her wedding ring was ced usually. He didn''t know what to say to her right now. It''s not like he was really trying to look at those lines of her hand.

 Chapter 779 To Be Lazy

    Chapter 779 To Be LazyˇˇˇˇBecause Shui Xian kept stroking her finger, Raelle also noticed the emptiness. She blinked and asked, "Where is my wedding ring?"

    Shui Xian who was lost in his thoughts snapped back to reality and looked into her eyes. "Oh, I don''t know."

    "If you don''t know, who is supposed to know?" questioned Raelle.

    "Right, I should know," answered Shui Xian as he stood up and went to look for the wedding ring. He found the bag where all of Raelle''s things were ced. Before he could reach for the stic bag for essories, he found the bag in which her gown was ced. That white gown had such ring bloody red stains that it made his heart clench.

    Shui Xian closed his eyes and put that bag away. He looked through the essories and found her wedding ring. He came back to her side and took her hand in his own. Yes, that''s exactly what had been missing all this time.

    "What''s wrong?" asked Raelle noticing how he was still holding her hand and continued to stare at the wedding ring in a daze.

    "I think it''s about time I get the ring that rightfully belongs to you," he told her honestly.

    "This doesn''t belong to me rightfully?" asked Raelle.

    "No, this is yours," he replied. "But this is the ring I got for you. That one belonged to my mother and she definitely would have loved to see you wearing it."

    "Oh, then I''ll just wait for you to find it," said Raelle.

    Because she knew already that Tang Hebe had that ring. Even after the divorce, she never gave it back. In fact, whether Tang Hebe even kept the ring after all this time or not was another question to think about. After all, the woman didn''t even want to keep the man whom she imed to love. So, would she have kept the ring he gave her as a token of his love?

    When we are talking about whether Tang Hebe kept that token of love or not, it''s necessary to think about whether Raelle really wanted that ring or not. The answer was, yes. The ring belonged to her mother-inw. She didn''t want it for herself. Shui Xian used the same ring to propose to Tang Hebe. No matter how one thought about it, it left a distaste in one''s mouth. And Raelle never liked sharing her things. How could she take the ring that someone else used?

    But even if she didn''t wear it, she still wanted it back. That ring meant something special to both Shui Koshing and Qian Yin. And considering how much Qian Yin didn''t like Tang Hebe, anyone else in the world deserved to have that ring except for Tang Hebe.

    "Well, you should have gotten the ring long ago," added Raelle.

    Shui Xian also nodded in agreement, "You''re right. I should have gotten it long ago. Although it''ste, I can still fix my mistake. I''ll find it for you."

    Raelle gave him a nod and then she looked out the window before asking, "What time is it?" Without waiting for an answer from Shui Xian, she looked at the digital clock in the room and stared at it for a whole minute in silence. "It''s half past 10 o''clock? In the morning?" Shui Xian pursed his lips and nodded in reply. "I overslept?"

    He nodded once again.

    And Raelle sank into silence. When she opened her mouth, she said, "Wow! That''s a first." She looked up at Shui Xian and told him, "I slept for over 10 hours. That has never happened before." She pondered over something and asked, "Is something wrong with me?"

    Shui Xian smiled at her question recalling how he also thought the same when he realized she was sleeping for so long. "Nothing is wrong. I asked the doctor. Everything is normal. You oversleeping is nothing out of ordinary."

    "Isn''t it?" she questioned in a low voice. She thought it wasn''t ordinary. A person like her who had never overslept, one day slept for over 10 hours. It definitely didn''t seem normal to her but she was no doctor so it was pointless to think so much about it. Recalling something, she added, "It''s already sote, what are you doing here?"

    Shui Xian was about to leave to arrange their breakfast when Raelle''s question fell into his ears. "Huh?"

    "It''s Monday," she reminded him. "Shouldn''t you be working? I''m the patient who is banned from working. Why are you ying hooky? Go to work."

    Shui Xian stared at her. She was actually kicking him out, right? But did she really think he was gonna leave? No way!

    "How can I leave you here alone?" he retorted.

    "I''m not a three-year-old," she said. "I didn''t even like surrounding me when I was three. And now, I''m 25. I definitely don''t need you here to keep an eye on me. It''s not like I''m gonna run away."

    "What if you really ran away?" he asked yfully.

    "If I want to run away, you can''t stop me," she told him honestly.

    "Indeed, who can stop Raelle Xiang."

    "No one," she said.

    Shui Xian chuckled at that.

    "Why are youughing? I''m telling you, even I can stop myself once I decide to do something."

    Shui Xian continued tough at her words. He walked over to her side and pinched her nose, "No matter what you say, I''m not leaving. I know you can take care of yourself but I can''t convince myself. My heart will be even more restless if I''m not around you."

    "Why don''t you say that you just found an excuse to bezy?" was Raelle''s response. "You''re using my health as an excuse to just stick to me like glue."

    Shui Xian wanted to refute but somewhere deep in his heart, he actually agreed with her words. It was really the first time, he found a reason to avoid going to work and just spend his day with her. Since they got married, the only time he could stick to her was during weekends.

 Chapter 780 Shallow Wife

    Chapter 780 Shallow WifeˇˇˇˇShui Xian avoided her eyes as he said, "What are you saying, wife? I really can''t leave you alone in this condition." Raelle continued to look at him. So he ended up sighing and saying, "Okay, I ept. A part of me is also using it as an excuse to just stay with you. But you can''t me me. Since the time we got married, we really didn''t go on a long vacation together."

    "If you won''t work, how will we pay for the hospital dues?"

    Shui Xian almost vomited blood at her question.

    "Really? Baby, I think I can afford that much in life," he told her. "Not just now, I can afford your hospital expenses for life."

    "Are you cursing me? To not be able to leave the hospital in this life?"

    "I don''t dare," he shook his head like a rattle. "Don''t twist my words against me." He took a pause and added, "And even if I can''t pay, my wife is very capable and rich."

    "You want me to pay for myself?"

    Shui Xian stared at her and pinched her nose once again, "Baby, why are you so calctive when ites to money?"

    "Because it''s easy to measure," she told him. "You can''t measure feelings and feelings are alsoplicated. Money is very simple to understand." She thought about it and added, "Also, I want you to understand that your wife is a very shallow person. She can''t do anything before beauty and money. Didn''t I tell you, I married you because you''re good-looking and you also have money."

    Shui Xian continued to listen to her nonsense attentively in amusement. He didn''t believe a word she just said. Apart from the fact that the concept of money was easy to understand for her rather than feelings. Other than that, she was really talking all nonsense.

    "Oh, I didn''t know Fai taught you his nonsense," he stated.

    "How is that nonsense?" she asked.

    "Because the thing youck most in life is money," he replied. "Maybe that''s why it''s very easy for you to understand the concept of money. But you alwayscked feelings so you find it very difficult to understand it." He patted her head saying, "Baby, you''re anything but a shallow person. And I know that already. I don''t need to understand my wife any more than what I already do."

    "What do you understand about your wife?" she asked.

    "I understand that my wife is a very precious treasure," he replied. "And she is all I need in my life." He tapped her nose and added, "Don''t try to kick me out. I''m not leaving. As long as you''re not going back to work, I''m gonna stay with you."

    "How can you be so willful as a businessman?" she questioned.

    "I can be," he said. "Because I am the boss. I deserve to be willful once in a while." He took a deep breath and said, "Okay, forget about this. Let me help you wash up now. Then we''ll have brunch. This is no time for breakfast."

    "I can go myself," she told him when she noticed him trying to pick her up.

    "I know," he replied but still carried her in his arms. "But just because you can do it yourself, doesn''t mean you have to. I don''t want you to walk around so I''ll help you."

    "Excuses," she said.

    Shui Xian smiled as he ced her down in the bathroom and kissed her forehead saying, "I have a lot more excuses. And I can be very shameless when I want to be. You already know I''m clingy. So, get used to it."

    "You''re clingy but now, you''re clingier," she told him.

    "I can''t help it," he said with a small smile. How could he tell her that this incident scared him to the core? He really wasn''t willing to take a step away from her anymore. He wanted to keep her where he could see her. Although he knew it wasn''t possible all the time, he still wanted to do it as much as he could. "Be good and brush your teeth. I''m gonna arrange something for us to eat."

    Shui Xian went out of the ward and called his father.

    "What? Don''t ask me any more questions."

    Shui Xian was startled to hear the hoarse voice of his father. Had he been crying again? Was it because of the questions they had yesterday? Shui Xian suddenly felt bad for his father and said, "No, I have no questions for you. But I do need your help."

    "What is it?" asked Shui Koshing curiously.

    "You see, B¨¤, your daughter-inw is in hospital and I can''t possibly leave her here and go to work. But these days, work is a little hectic as well. Ma Jin won''t be able to handle it. Especially since we don''t have a VP as well now. So..." He trailed off.

    Shui Koshing understood his meaning, "You want me to go back to work? I took early retirement."

    "Yeah, you can temporarily cancel your retirement," said Shui Xian. "You''re still very young. Help you son a little."

    "Fine!" said Shui Koshing. "But I''m doing it because I don''t want you to leave my daughter-inw alone. Don''t get any ideas that I''m doing it for you."

    Shui Xian smiled and agreed, "Yes, yes, it''s all for Raelle." Originally he had no such n to make his father go back to work. Even if there was no VP, he could still manage his work somehow. He just had to promote someone. But listening to his father''s voice, he realized, his father had too much on his head these days.

    It was better to use work to distract him.

    It was killing two birds with one stone. How perfect! He was a genius!

    "Shui Xian!"

    Shui Xian was walking lost in his own thoughts and with a sneaky smile of victory when he heard someone calling him. He stopped in his track. He was all too well familiar with that voice.

 Chapter 781 Bad Actor

    Chapter 781 Bad ActorˇˇˇˇTo be honest, Shui Xian wanted to walk away and pretend like he didn''t even hear her calling him. But wasn''t that much of a jerk so he couldn''t just walk away. Taking a deep breath, he tried to calm himself enough to face the person who called out to him but just once was not enough. So, he took several deep breaths before turning around.

    Tang Hebe was standing not far from him right now while her eyes were glued to him.

    However, Shui Xian was d to see that he didn''t see that deeply infatuated look in her eyes this around. It was nauseating thest time he saw it. The person who broke his heart looked at him like he was the center of her world after shattering his heart into smithereens. He found it funny how her brain so conveniently chose to forget about the pain she gave him and gave herself a clean chit.

    What a joke!

    So what if she gave herself a clean te? Was he also someone who lost his memory? No! He remembered every single thing. He remembered every single word she said to tear open his heart. His heart which he left with her to protect and left himself in a very vulnerable position.

    "Yes?"

    Tang Hebe found his estranged manner to be quite ufortable. She already figured out a lot of things since yesterday but what she didn''t figure out was what happened between her and Shui Xian. She was not willing to believe that they actually went so far apart in these years.

    How did it happen?

    "You''re acting like we are strangers," she pointed out.

    "But we are," he replied. "I don''t think with your intelligence you haven''t figured it out yet that we are no longer together."

    Tang Hebe''s eyes showed the pain she felt when she heard those wordsing from him. He didn''t even mince his words and went straight to hurt her.

    "I was keeping a hope that my conjecture was wrong," she told him.

    "There is no need to keep such a pointless hope," he told her. "Because the truth is, we are nothing to each other anymore."

    "Then Justin..."

    Before she could continue, he interrupted, "Don''t even try to associate your son with me. He has nothing to do with me. He never had anything to do with him. I haven''t even met your son. I don''t know how you got him but I know that he isn''t mine."

    Tang Hebe bit her bottom lip trying to understand everything once again. She was trying to convince herself that if she had a child, then it definitely had something to do with Shui Xian. And because of a child, they''d still be connected even if they had separated.

    But now, it seemed she had to wake up to reality.

    There was nothing connecting her to Shui Xian anymore. Nothing at all. So, Shui Xian was right. They were just strangers once again. Familiar strangers, but still strangers.

    She didn''t know how to feel about this at all.

    "You have learned to speak your mind," she said. "You used to avoid saying hurtful things to people. And now, you''re not even considering that I''m sick."

    "Because I''ve realized who are the people I''m supposed to protect," he answered. "I don''t need to mind my words with people I have nothing to do with. And Ms. Tang, you''re really someone I have nothing to do with anymore. You of all people should know, that once you''re no longer a part of my life, I won''t even care about you."

    It took him a long time to realize it but he had learned his lesson. It was pointless to act gentlemanly and kind to strangers. He could just use that energy to do something for the people who really mattered in his life. He had to stop being the nice guy so that people would stop taking him for granted all the time.

    Maybe Tang Hebe also took him for granted.

    But he wasn''t willing to be that guy anymore.

    Tang Hebe looked at his eyes deeply and inquired, "You''re not even willing to pretend anymore? Am I that hateful?"

    "I don''t know," answered Shui Xian honestly. "I don''t know if you''re hateful or not. Even if you''re the reason our rtionship crumbled, I still won''t me you for everything. Because I know, I am not perfect as well. So, most probably I have done something to let you down as well. And that''s why I can''t decide if you''re hateful or not." He took a deep breath and added, "But I can assure you, I don''t hate you anymore. I might have had some resentment. However, it''s all gone now. Flowers of love don''t bloom in the heart that is filled with resentment. So, I let my resentment for you go. It wasn''t worth it."

    Tang Hebe actually felt like she didn''t know this Shui Xian at all. When did he start talking like this? He was always a gentle, smiling, and caring person. But now, he had walls around him. And she definitely wasn''t allowed to cross those walls and get close to him.

    And yes, she believed it when he said he didn''t hate her. She could see it in his eyes. There was no hate for her in those eyes but the love that she always found in those eyes for herself was also nowhere to be found. He had removed herself from his life and his heart. Now, she didn''t even deserve his hate.

    "The doctor did ask me to pretend as nothing changed between us, but I can''t do that. I have never been a good actor. That''s what you used to say. I might be a good musician but my acting sucks. So, I couldn''t put on an act and pretend like thest 5 years didn''t even happen at all." His heart won''t allow him to put on that act. Whether he was good at acting or not had nothing to do with it at all.

 Chapter 782 Not Right

    Chapter 782 Not Rightˇˇˇˇ"You''ve changed," Tang Hebe muttered softly.

    "Change is the constant in life," Shui Xian told her. "We should always be prepared for it." He took a deep breath and added, "Now, just look at me. I wouldn''t have thought I''d be staying in a hospital just two days ago. But things changed. It doesn''t always go ording to our n."

    And neither did he think when he came out of Raelle''s ward that he''d be running into Tang Hebe. If he knew, he''d have rather just stayed inside to avoid the trouble of seeing her.

    "Even if for the sake of our old friendship, you could havee to see me," said Tang Hebe. "Because I''m pretty sure whatever changes between us, you are not someone who''d forsake the friendship we once had."

    Shui Xian found it rather funny. Yes, what she said was true. He wasn''t someone who''d forsake their childhood friendship. He never nned on doing it.

    "I have my priorities," he replied. "If it was just you in the hospital, I might havee to see you for old times'' sake."

    "But now your current wife is here as well?" she questioned but she sounded certain. "Now, someone else is Mrs. Shui. No, I should say, now the rightful owner of the title of Mrs. Shui is here. At her right ce."

    Shui Xian''s brows furrowed up before he sighed, "You''re right actually. She was really the rightful owner of the title of Mrs. Shui. It always belonged to her. It was just you and I struggling with fate. But when had anyone been able to win against fate?"

    Tang Hebe ced her hand on the wall and slowly sat down on the chair in the hallway. She looked up at him and asked, "Like your mother, you also think that I wasn''t the right partner for you? You also think Raelle Xiang is the perfect partner you needed?"

    "I never thought that way before but you proved to me that you weren''t the right person for me. No, I should say, we both weren''t right for each other."

    Tang Hebe snickered, "I fought with my whole family for your sake and you''re telling me we were not right for each other?"

    "Don''t ever tell me what you had to give up for me," retorted Shui Xian with a stern look. "I lost my mother! I''m the one who gave up the right to inherit my Shui family business. I''m the one who even left my home for you! In the end, who is the one wronging whom? If you had your memories right now, I''d also love to ask you for once, what did I do to deserve what you did to me? All I did was love you! That''s my only fault but do you even realize what prize I had to pay for that love?"

    He was suddenly really mad. Everything he learned yesterday, only infuriated him even more. Before that, he could still just let it all go. He never even tried to look for Tang Hebe for answers. But now, he really wanted some answers. He wanted to know if she even loved him at all or not? Or was she just like her own father who didn''t even hesitate before betraying his own brother?

    Tang Hebe found it difficult to breathe under his barrage of questions. She felt so stifled.

    That look in his eyes was so unsettling to her. So ufortable that even she wanted to ask herself what had she done to hurt him? What did she do?

    She held her head, trying to remember but everything was nk. Her whole head was nk. She couldn''t recall anything.

    Seeing how she held her hand, he stopped himself from continuing. No matter what, he didn''t want to worsen her condition. It wasn''t worth it. He rubbed his forehead and turned to leave.

    "Xian!"

    He stopped when he heard her calling him again but didn''t turn around waiting for her to continue.

    "Did you marry her because your mother chose her?" asked Tang Hebe.

    Shui Xian turned around and looked into her eyes, "No. Before marrying her, I didn''t even know she was the person my mother always wanted me to marry." He didn''t want to tell her that he married Raelle because that woman said, love wasn''t all you needed for marriage.

    She was someone who made him understand that if a rtionship is solely built on love, it eventually crumbles down. Because we need a lot more than just love in life.

    He noticed the flicker in her eyes and added, "Oh, and let me tell you something else. I don''t know why you hate Raelle but she never had anything to do with our rtionship. I only met herst year for the first time in my life. But it seems I never realized that you''d been keeping her between us as an invisible rival. So, let me ask you, was it worth it?"

    "I don''t know," she replied to him. "But shouldn''t you know why she was the invisible rival between us? Your mother never wanted to ept me but she epted her wholeheartedly. She admired her and genuinely loved her. How could I not be jealous of her? She had what I craved for!"

    Shui Xianughed at that, "She had what you craved for? You didn''t even know her at all! You don''t even realize that you had a lot more than she ever did." He took a pause and added, "Whether you have your memory or not, keep in mind. Stay away from my wife. Although I trusted your character, after knowing that you hated Raelle, I''m starting to doubt whether I even knew you at all."

    With that, he left her there. She continued to stare at his back as he left her sight without any hesitation. He didn''t even turn back to look once. He was really that kind of a person. Once he walked away from you, he''d never look back.

 Chapter 783 Suspicions

    Chapter 783 Suspicionsˇˇˇˇ"How is our guest?"

    Anna looked at Raelle and replied, "Missy doesn''t have to worry. We are very hospitable people. None of our guests had ever been unsatisfied with our hospitability."

    Raelle could hear the sarcasm and she also could notice the evilness behind Anna''s voice. Raelle actually didn''t even want to talk about Ruan Meilin. She already knew without her saying a word, a lot of people were willing to ruin Ruan Meilin at this time.

    "Also, Missy''s husband is also amazing,"plimented Anna.

    "Oh?"

    "Master Xian couldn''t reach Ruan Meilin because she was in our custody so he vent his anger on the Ruan family. Currently, every person in the Ruan family is like a rat trying to find a hole to hide in. Not only did he attack their business, but he also helped intensify the internal strife. Right now, every person of the Ruan family is ying against each other and a lot of them are gonna have to face jail time."

    Raelle nodded her head. Well, she didn''t know about any of it. She was not allowed to see what was going on outside of this hospital ward. Her job was to just recuperate like a good patient. The only problem was, that she had never been a good patient. Even though she was a very patient person, she wasn''t a good patient.

    "None of that concerns me though," stated Raelle. "He is his own person. I can''t possibly control what he does." Taking a pause, she added, "Anything else I should know about?"

    "Mistress and Old Master Xiang believe that Minister Chen is also responsible for the incident, so the Chen n isn''t gonna get out of it unscathed. Especially when both Mu n and Xiang n are after them."

    "How can he be responsible? He just invited me to a banquet out of goodwill," said Raelle. "I don''t think he should get the burns from the fire that Ruan Meilin sparked." She looked at Anna and asked, "Don''t you think so?"

    Anna shook her head, "I don''t, Missy."

    "Why not?" inquired Raelle.

    "Missy should already know that coincidences are often nned," replied Anna. "Ruan Meilin is friends with Minister Chen''s daughter and she especially got the invitation for the banquet because she knew you''d be there. In fact, even if she tried to hide it, she epted it herself that her purpose was you. Maybe the attack was on impulse but she wouldn''t have had that impulse if she didn''t have those thoughts already residing in her mind." She licked her lips and added, "Besides, Missy should already know, we are all very biased people. Even if the Chen n ispletely innocent, just the fact that you got hurt on their territory is enough for all of us to not let them shirk the responsibility. In fact, we might have let it go but Missy lost her child. Although we can''t bring the child back, we still have to make some people pay for his life."

    Of course, Raelle understood the people who had been around her for years. Especially Anna who had been one of the first to join her security team. And she also knew that Anna looked at her not as her boss but as family. During these years, she didn''t take Raelle''s protection as a job, she felt like it was her responsibility to protect Raelle.

    "Well, it seems I can''t help Minister Chen then, he should have raised his daughter well and not let her make friends who''d drag her down to hell,"mented Raelle. Of course, she didn''t feel sympathy for any of them. It was only a matter of right and wrong to her. It had always been just a matter of right and wrong.

    "Missy, I believe you didn''t call me here to hear about these unimportant affairs," remarked Anna. She watched Raelle grow up before her eyes, how could she not even know a little about what kind of a person Raelle was?

    "Anna..."

    "Yes?"

    "Who are you loyal to?" asked Raelle.

    Anna bowed her head saying, "This subordinate''s life even belongs to you. Missy just has to say a word."

    "And if I ask you to betray your Mistress?"

    Anna didn''t even hesitate before saying, "I''d do it in a heartbeat. Because when Mistress put me beside you, she told me very clearly. Missy''s word is thew. Even if Missy wants Mistress'' life, this subordinate won''t hesitate toplete the task."

    "But can you really get Yanyan''s life?"

    Anna couldn''t believe Raelle was actually joking with her, she rubbed her nose and answered, "This subordinate is ashamed but the truth is, my skills had always been inferior to Mistress. I still can''t win against her."

    "Don''t be so hard on yourself," said Raelle. "I don''t want Yanyan''s life. What I want is for you to investigate something for me. But you have to keep it a secret from Yanyan. Let''s keep it between us."

    Anna thought about how it was difficult to keep secrets from Mu Chenyan. But she still had to do her best since it was Raelle who asked her to do it.

    "What are we looking for?"

    "Find out how my mother-inw died," replied Raelle. "The matter of her death is very suspicious. Oh, start with the Tang family. It definitely has something to do with them. It''d be easier for you to investigate if you know where to begin, right?"

    Anna nodded her head, "It indeed helps a lot." She thought about it before asking, "But why are you suddenly interested in this?"

    "I don''t like secrets that can affect my life," she told Anna. "You should know it very well. I like to know everything. It helps me in nning everything better."

    "Also, find out where Tang Hebe''s son came from," added Raelle.

    "Missy, are you suspicious of Miss Tang?" asked Anna.

    "Her?" Raelle took a moment before shaking her head, "Nah! She doesn''t even know how to scheme. Her biggest enemy had always been her own thoughts. She could have saved herself so much trouble if she hadn''t made up an invisible rival in her head."

 Chapter 784 Blind Spot

    Chapter 784 Blind SpotˇˇˇˇIf Raelle would say it in nice words, she thought Tang Hebe was simple-minded. But if she wasn''t being nice with her words, she''d say Tang Hebe was a little idiotic.

    At least, the Tang Hebe after losing memory gave that impression. And strangely, the Tang Hebe she met first seemed quite confident and strong. It seems the world really smoothened up her edges in those years after her divorce.

    "Then why do you want to know about her son?" asked Anna.

    "It''s better to know," replied Raelle. "He is a blind spot in my knowledge. In fact, no one knows where her son came from. Don''t you find it interesting?" What she didn''t tell Anna was that she had been meaning to find out about Tang Hebe''s son for a while now. She might have purposely ignored something at first, but now that she recalled those things, she was certain that Tang Hebe had a reason foring up to greet her when they met at the resort.

    And her purpose definitely wasn''t to introduce herself as the ex-wife of Shui Xian. She had something else she wanted to say to her. Also, the fact that Tang Hebe appeared at the Chen family''s banquet with Song Xin''ai.

    Anna nodded her head, "I''ll find out as much as possible and inform you."

    Shui Xian came back with a bouquet of flowers in his hands and greeted Anna who gave him a nod in response.

    "You can leave now," said Raelle to Anna who left without another word.

    Shui Xian poured water into the vase and put the flowers in while Raelle continued to follow his movements with her eyes. "What are you doing, Hubby?"

    "I''m trying to make this ce look less depressing," he answered her. Although this VIP ward looked more like a five-star hotel suite, he still found it very depressing. After all, in his heart, he knew they were in the hospital.

    "I think I told you, I want to go out for a while," reminded Raelle. "I didn''t ask you to bring flowers to me."

    "Darling, let''s make do with these flowers for now," said Shui Xian. "I''ll take you out when you recover."

    "Xian!"

    "Yes?"

    "I want to go out for a walk," said Raelle. "Please!"

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and felt like his heart was being attacked right now. How could he say no to that, please? He''d want to strangle himself if he even thought of saying no to that.

    Sighing, he agreed, "Okay. Let''s go out for a while. Sunlight is also good for the body."

    Even he found this ce depressing, how could he force her to stay inside all the time. It was better to take her out.

    "Should I bring a wheelchair?"

    "I can walk," said Raelle. "Don''t make me feel like a patient."

    "But you are a patient," reminded Shui Xian.

    "I refuse to be one!" was her response making Shui Xian shake his head helplessly.

    Shui Xian held her hand as she stepped down from the bed and wore the slippers. Taking small steps, he took her out. Even if she wanted to walk faster, he won''t let her. Does he really think she was gonna break or something?

    Whatever his thoughts were, only he would know.

    Raelle could only follow his lead because after staying with her for two days, he had started to look more like a patient than her. Raelle couldn''t even understand why that was so. Clearly, they both ate the same things but herplexion was rosy while he looked pale. She even thought he was sick but when she took his temperature, he was fine.

    Raelle took a deep breath in the fresh air, closed her eyes, and basked in the sunlight. Oh, that felt good. How can anyone stay inside all the time? Won''t they be zombies?

    At least, she couldn''t do it. No matter how much of a workaholic she was, she had to go out.

    She looked at the colorful flowers that were nted alongside the pathway and felt her body lightening up. Nature is a wonderful thing. One would always realize the importance of the sun after a rainy day.

    "Let''s sit over there?" suggested Shui Xian as he pointed towards a wooden table and bench that was ced under the shade of the tree.

    "Okay," agreed Raelle and went over with him.

    Once she sat down, he asked, "Do you want to drink something? Are you tired?"

    "I''m not tired," she told him. "And I don''t want to drink anything as well. You juste and sit down with me."

    "Oh," with that response, he obediently sat down beside her.

    Raelle ced her head on his shoulder and he immediately extended his arm to support her by leaning against him. "Flowers are beautiful here," shemented.

    "So, the ones I brought for you are not pretty?" he questioned.

    "I did not say that," she answered.

    Shui Xian smiled at her and kissed her forehead, "I know. I''m just joking with you."

    "You should not joke with a person who can''t even understand jokes," was Raelle''s response.

    "I can''t help it," he told her. "You''re so fun to joke with."

    "I think something is wrong with your aesthetics, Mr. Husband," said Raelle. "Because Hyson says I''m the worst joking partner. After all, I don''t evenugh at his jokes. But then again, it''s not like his jokes are funny or anything."

    Shui Xian chuckled when he heard her roasting Hyson. Oh, she''d be saying anything.

    "Forget about joking, you''re fun to talk to in general," was Shui Xian''s sincere opinion.

    "What''s fun? Did you enjoy me attacking you with words?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian pursed his lips, "I might be a mosochist. I actually enjoyed all those attacks." How could he not enjoy those attacks? Her every word made him understand somethings he had been fighting with for years. It was like the haze he lived in was cleared up whenever he talked to her. So, to him, she was definitely fun to talk to.

 Chapter 785 Ego

    Chapter 785 EgoˇˇˇˇJust sitting here doing nothing and having a pointless argument with his wife allowed Shui Xian to actually rx and feelfortable. It was as if the shadows left on his mind from yesterday''s happenings were slowly lifting up and he was able to look more clearly at how much warmth he currently was surrounded by.

    "Hubby!"

    "Don''t even think about it," was Shui Xian''s response even before he heard what she had to say.

    "What? You don''t even know what I want to say," she said.

    "No, I''m very clear about your thoughts," he replied.

    "How is that possible? I might have given you a ce in my heart to live but I definitely didn''t allow you to peak into my head."

    Shui Xian smiled as he said, "I''m your husband. Husband and wife are of one mind and heart. Of course, I''d know what''s going on in your mind."

    "Oh? Then tell me what did I want to say?" she asked.

    "You want me to let you check up on your work," he replied.

    Raelle lifted her head from his chest and looked at him as she held her head in her hands, "You really took a peek into my head?"

    Shui Xian tapped her nose, "Maybe I did."

    Raelle stared at him intently as if trying to figure out how he managed to see her thoughts? But she forgot that by now, everyone knew how much she loved her work. It wasn''t surprising that Shui Xian would be able to figure out what she was all about.

    "I have such a smart wife, I have to up my game, no?" he asked her yfully.

    "That''s true. With such a smart wife, you can''t bezy," she responded.

    "Wow! Babes, you noticed that you are bing even more narcissistic?"

    "I noticed," she replied to him. "But isn''t it because of you?"

    "Me?" he inquired as his brows quirked up in confusion. "Please, enlighten me."

    "A woman in a rtionship is only narcissistic when her partner is the one behind her boosting her ego," she told him. "You clearly love to let me know how amazing I am all the time. How can I not get more narcissistic?"

    "Oh, so it''s because of that," Shui Xian nodded in understanding. "Then I''m doing a good job. Wifey, you can be as conceited as you want. I''ll keep fanning the mes of your ego from behind."

    "Who wants you to stand behind me all the time?" she asked. "You''re my husband. My partner in life. Your ce is right beside me, not behind me." She hugged him as sheid her head back on his chest.

    Shui Xian''s face leaned against her head as he hugged her back and said, "Aren''t I beside you?" He tsked to himself, "One day, I''m gonna get diabetes because of your sweet words."

    "No, you won''t get it," she said. "But about my..."

    "No!" was Shui Xian''s response as he interrupted her from getting back on the topic.

    "Why? It''s not like I''m asking to go to work," she told him. "I just want to check up on some things. Today, we were supposed to have a very important meeting."

    "I''m still not letting you work," he was adamant on that point. "Look, aren''t I here not working as well? I''m as free as you are."

    "Well, why are you wasting your time with me here?"

    "Because I want to," he replied. But suddenly changed his words, "No, I''m not wasting my time. How can this be called wasting time? I''m clearly cultivating feelings with my wife. That''s more important than anything."

    "You''re clearly wasting your time," was all she said. Then her hands became a little dishonest and started their journey under his shirt. Her soft hands brushed on his waist and wanted to move up but Shui Xian held her wrist and took a deep breath.

    "What do you think you''re doing?"

    "Since words are not working, I thought I need to change tactics," she answered honestly.

    Shui Xian didn''t know whether tough or cry at this moment. His wife has always dared to say anything and do anything. As per her mood. Who cared where they were? Even if they were in public, did it matter to her? Clearly not! She didn''t mind trying to seduce him and hook his soul away.

    "So, you''re trying to seduce me?" he asked. "But what to do, my adorable wife, it''s not working."

    Raelle pinched his chest and she took out her hand from under his shirt. "Didn''t you say I don''t even have to do anything and you''d be seduced by me? Now, I''m even trying and you''re not willing to be seduced? Did I just lose my charm?"

    Shui Xianughed out loud at her words, "How is that possible? Raelle Xiang is the most charmingdy I have ever met in my life. How can you lose your charm?"

    "Then why isn''t it working on you? Did you get immune to my charm after just being married for half a year?" she asked.

    He sighed out and poked her forehead, "Silly, how can I be immune to your charms?"

    "Then what''s the problem here?"

    "The problem is the ce we are at right now," he reminded her.

    Raelle looked around and looked at the patients walking around in the garden. Some were even sitting on the other wooden benches around them. Even doctors were taking a break outside holding their coffees or sandwiches. Clearly, this hospital was not a ce where seduction would work.

    "So, the problem is not with me, but it''s with this hospital," said Raelle as she nodded to herself.

    Shui Xian was amused but didn''t say anything refute her words. Well, he had to say she wasn''t wrong. How could she be the problem? If it was at any other moment, he''d be willing to sell his soul to her. But knowing that they were at the hospital and she wasn''t doing well was enough to act like a bucket of cold water on his head. How could he get excited in this situation?

 Chapter 786 Transparency

    Chapter 786 Transparencyˇˇˇˇ"I met Tang Hebe earlier," told Shui Xian. He didn''t want to hide it from Raelle. He didn''t think it''d do him any good to keep secrets from her and neither did he feel like keeping anything from her.

    In fact, she was that one person to whom he was really willing to talk about anything. Because he knew she won''tugh at his silly thoughts. She won''t judge him for his certain decisions. And she''ll never condemn him as well.

    "Oh," was the only response Raelle gave him.

    Shui Xian pinched her cheek, "Darling, show some interest in your husband."

    "What are you talking about? All I''m interested in these days is my husband," she looked very sincere when she said that and he had no doubt about those words either.

    But he was still feeling helpless over how nonchnt she was acting when he told her that he met Tang Hebe! He was the real fool for expecting a reaction for her. What a waste of his expectations!

    "Fine, if you want to tell you can just tell me," she said. "Don''t sulk on your own."

    "Who is sulking?"

    "You!"

    "I''m not!"

    "You are!"

    Shui Xian took a deep breath and said helplessly, "Forget it."

    "So?"

    "So what? I just met her coincidentally."

    "Are you sure it was a coincidence?" asked Raelle. "I just learned that even Ruan Meilin being at the Chen family''s banquet wasn''t a coincidence. Her purpose was me from the very beginning. So, you want me to believe that Ms. Tang Hebe who has lost her memories, actually wandered in the hallways and identally ran into you? I''m that gullible to believe it."

    "You mean she was waiting for me there?" Shui Xian''s brows furrowed up.

    "Think about it yourself," she told him. "What do you think?"

    Shui Xian really thought about it and understood something. If it was the Tang Hebe who had her memories, she might not purposely look for him but the Tang Hebe who had lost her memories was very capable of doing it. Maybe she really waited for him since he didn''t go to look for her again. Clearly, even after understanding everything on her own, she still wasn''t able to handle the truth that they were no longer together.

    "What you said is quite possible," he muttered softly.

    "I know, right? My mind is back online," said Raelle. "I can''t possibly be wrong about this." She took a pause and added, "And if I''m not wrong, she wanted to confirm your rtionship status with her and along the way ask about me."

    Shui Xian gaped at her in disbelief, "Wifey, I think your mind is not just back online. It''s on a roll!" He rubbed her head, "How do you even manage to think of this all?"

    "She isn''t that difficult to understand," said Raelle. "She clearly heard the doctor calling me Mrs. Shui, she isn''t deaf. She definitely heard it. And she lost her memories, not her brain. She obviously understood what''s my rtionship with you. But her mind didn''t want to ept the reality so she purposely tried to delude herself. And when that didn''t work, she came to look for answers from you."

    "It''s definitely different talking to smart people," hemented. "I don''t even have to say anything and you understand it all."

    "I have to have this much understanding," she said.

    "But you don''t have to worry at all, I cleared everything to her very clearly," said Shui Xian. "Even if it''s just her delusion, I have to extract my name from those delusions. I told her that even if it''s just to pretend, I''m still not willing to get myself associated with her."

    Raelle looked at him and said, "Who said I''m worried? I''m definitely not worried and I am really not interested in what you both talked about."

    "Wife, show some interest!" he repeated his words.

    "But why should I? I know you already," she said. "I know what you''d have said to her."

    Shui Xian shut up once he heard that from her. "You said a husband and wife should have a transparent rtionship. It can only work that way. That''s why I want to tell you everything."

    "Transparency is definitely very important to avoid misunderstandings," she said. "But my dear husband, you are already a very transparent person. It''s very easy to figure you out."

    "Only you''d say that," he muttered.

    "Because I''m your wife," she replied. "It''s my talent. Just like you can read my thoughts these days."

    "I still can''t read all your thoughts," he sounded very dissatisfied with himself.

    "I have to keep some thoughts to myself, how else will I maintain my mysterious image?"

    "You? Mysterious?" Shui Xianughed out. "Only you would think so." He shook his head and added, "The only thing that makes you mysterious is the fact that your thought process isn''t like most people. So, it makes it difficult for people to understand you and they think you''re mysterious. In truth, you''re just very simple."

    "What did you do about work?" asked Raelle. "You can''t possibly leave it all to Ma Jin. You even lost your precious VP."

    Shui Xian rolled his eyes, "She was never precious to me. In fact, no one is important to businessmen when ites to profits. You should understand that better than me." He took a brief break before telling her, "I just asked B¨¤ to go back to work."

    He was expecting her to question his decision but how would that be possible?

    Raelle nodded in agreement, "It''s good to keep B¨¤ busy in this situation. This way, he won''t have so much time to waste thinking and crying to himself all alone. It''s not like we are at home to keep an eye on him. He should distract himself with work."

    "Aye, you really understand me well," Shui Xian sounded very smug as he spoke. As if he wasplimenting himself rather than her.

 Chapter 787 Love Letter

    Chapter 787 Love LetterˇˇˇˇShui Xian continued to smile to himself. He really thought it was a lot easier to talk to Raelle than most people. He only had to say half and she''d understand the other half. He stroked her back and hummed a soft tune in a pleasant mood.

    "What are you humming?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian pursed his lips before he started singing in a very mellow voice,

    "On this beautiful day, I want to write you a love letter.

    But I''m not able to find the right words

    You''re like the sun in my sky

    Smiling down at me

    These beautiful flowers are gonna be a witness

    You''re my love light and

    I''m falling for you again.

    I have a lot to say to you

    who hase from afar in my life

    My words are not enough to write this love letter

    Why don''t you look into my eyes

    And listen to my heartbeat?~~"

    "Why are you suddenly writing a love letter?" asked Raelle.

    "It''s a love song," he replied. "It''s not perfect for now. I''ll keep working on it."

    "Okay," Raelle didn''t stop him from doing whatever he wanted. She tilted her head and kissed his chin saying, "I''ll wait for the song you owe me."

    "I definitely won''t let you down," he assured. "Even if you can''t understand the music, I''ll make sure to touch your heart with my lyrics."

    "I''ll look forward to it," she told him.

    "More than that, you should look forward to our wedding," he said, clearly in a very happy mood. "I say since we are both taking time off from work, why don''t we hold our wedding? It''ll save us some time. Don''t you think?"

    "You''re not thinking about saving time, you''re just eager to hold the wedding," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian didn''t even bother feeling embarrassed at being exposed like that. He didn''t care at all. She already knew his thoughts anyway. So, what if she said them out loud? It was the truth anyway. He had been waiting for their wedding for a while now.

    "Okay," said Raelle after she thought about it some more. "Then we can go on a longer honeymoon as well."

    Shui Xian was stunned by her words and looked at her, "Baby, what did you say?"

    "You heard me," she answered. "Didn''t you say ourst honeymoon was too short? Besides, we weren''t even all that familiar with each other back then. So, we have to go on a longer honeymoon."

    "My wife''s priorities are very clear,"mented Shui Xian.

    "What do you mean?" asked Raelle. "Everyone should have their priorities set straight. Mine are already very clear. The wedding day is tiring and troublesome. But I''ll look forward to the wedding night. After all, the only thing to look forward to in a wedding is the wedding night."

    "Pfft!" Shui Xian burst outughing. He couldn''t help it. She really had thoughts very clear.

    What to do? This was his own wife. One who liked to feel him up in public without caring that they were actually in a hospital. And even now, she was more concerned about the wedding night than the wedding itself. He really had a one-of-a-kind wife in the world.

    Shui Xian kissed her temple and said, "Baby, shall I tell you a secret?"

    "What?"

    "I love you!"

    Raelle gave him a look, "How is that even a secret? I already know that."

    "Oh that''s because my heart can''t keep secrets from you," he replied cheekily. "But seriously, you should show some excitement for our wedding day as well. Otherwise, the guest will think that someone forced you to marry me."

    "Who can force me?"

    "I''m just saying," he said.

    "Then how to look excited?" asked Raelle.

    "Mmm... Let''s n our own wedding? We left it to others because we didn''t hate time. Now, we have plenty of time and you clearly want to do something to keep yourself busy. So, let''s make our day more meaningful by nning everything on our own?" suggested Shui Xian randomly. He wasn''t really expecting her to agree.

    But as always Raelle''s mind was on a different track and she actually agreed readily, "I like this idea." At this moment, she''d do anything to busy herself. This feeling of having too much time on her hand and not knowing what to do with that time was definitely not settling well with her. After all, she wasn''t someone who could spend her days on the bed- sleeping and eating on repeat.

    "Huh? You agree?" Shui Xian raised his brows inquisitively in surprise.

    "Yup," replied Raelle. "So, where should we begin? What''s the n? No, how do you even n a wedding?"

    Shui Xian opened his mouth and closed it.

    "What?" she asked.

    Shui Xian smiled sheepishly, "I also don''t know what needs to be prepared."

    "Aren''t you the experienced person here?" questioned Raelle. "It''s my first wedding, I''m the rookie. It''s understandable if I don''t know anything. Where were you lost during the time of your first wedding that you don''t remember anything?"

    Shui Xian felt like he was being personally attacked. But the attacker was his love, what could he do about it? He could only keep it to himself. Sighing heavily, he told her, "It''s not that I don''t know what happened at my first wedding. But I wasn''t part of the preparations back then. It was more of an intimate gathering and everything was nned by Tang Hebe. So, I really don''t know much."

    "Now, whom should I look for?" asked Raelle. "No one around me had ever held a wedding. Yanyan is single. Yue is single. My newly found siblings are even more single than me."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips to hold back hisughter. Now, it wasn''t only him who got attacked. These attacks were on everyone who was rted to Raelle. But the reality was that she was absolutely right. Every single one was more single than the other. It was really a tragic sight.

 Chapter 788 [Bonus chapter] Clueless

    Chapter 788 [Bonus chapter] CluelessˇˇˇˇHe suddenly felt gratified that Raelle never nned on staying single for life. Even though her idea of marriage wasn''t like others, she still never nned on staying single. And because of that, he managed to get her into his life. He really picked up the best deal of his life.

    "Let''s start with the wedding photo shoot?" Shui Xian gave his input. And of course, he brought up the thing he had been looking forward to most. He really wanted to have different photoshoots with her and in different locations. It''d be beautiful and memorable.

    Raelle nodded her head, "Then give me back my phone."

    "Why?"

    "I''ll call Cloe to find a good wedding photographer," said Raelle.

    "We are in the hospital right now," reminded Shui Xian. "Why do you keep forgetting that? Don''t tell me you''re nning on holding a wedding photoshoot in this hospital''s garden."

    Raelle seriously looked around at the garden but shook her head in the end, "Although the location is good, it''s not what I like."

    "Thank goodness," Shui Xian actually patted his chest in relief. He was really scared for a moment that she''d want to hold a wedding photoshoot here. This was definitely not his ideal ce for a wedding photoshoot.

    "If we are going to choose a ce with beautiful flowers, I''d rather choose the ce where you proposed to me," she told him. "Yes, that location is good."

    Shui Xian smiled at her and shook his head. Holding her hand, he hummed in agreement, "That''s exactly what I had in mind." And he was telling the truth. From the moment, he went down on his knee under those wisterias, he had thought of taking her back to that flower park for their wedding photoshoot. And now, she thought the same way.

    "You still have to give me the phone," said Raelle. "It''ll take time to get an appointment with the photographer as well. Do you think people just because we are here wasting our time, everyone else is doing the same?"

    "I''ll just look for the photographer myself," said Shui Xian. "You don''t have to do anything. You just give orders. Your husband is here to fulfill all your wishes."

    "What else is there apart from the photo shoot?" she asked.

    "Mmm... Wedding dresses?"

    "That''s something Yue will take care of," replied Raelle. "That reminded me if we are holding our wedding sooner, will Yue be able to finish everything on time?"

    "That''s a good question," said Shui Xian. "I''ll talk to Aunt Yue and see how is it going."

    "What else is there?"

    "We have to choose a venue."

    "Venue?" repeated Raelle and fell into thought for a while.

    "How about we hold a wedding at the ce you grew up?" suggested Shui Xian.

    "Can we?" asked Raelle. After all, she grew up in Country G and that too in a mansion that looked like a castle. That ce she called home was a marvel in itself. How could it not be a perfect ce to get married?

    "Why not?" asked Shui Xian. "I don''t think Opa will mind it."

    "Who is concerned about Opa?" she asked. Clearly, her grandfather won''t have any opinion. She was the said princess of that castle. How would he not be happy to see his princess getting married in the castle where she grew up? That''d be a joke. "I''m talking about you. Do you really want to go that far to get married? Also, what about your guests and all?"

    "I don''t mind," he said. "I still think that''s the perfect ce for our marriage. After all, it''s a ce where my mother actually chose you as her daughter-inw. It''s a ce you received her blessings. So, I feel like if we get married there, it''d be like we are getting her blessings even if she is no longer with us."

    "That''s an interesting point," she said. The more she thought about it, the more feasible it seemed. That was her home. Her very first home. How could it not hold any significance to her? So, marrying at that ce would definitely have its own meaning.

    "Then it''s decided," said Shui Xian. "I''ll talk to Yanyan."

    "Okay," replied Raelle.

    "Now, let''s move on to the menu."

    "Food menu?" repeated Raelle. "You can decide that on your own. I have no interest in that."

    "It''s our wedding," reminded Shui Xian. "Not just mine alone."

    "But if we go with my choice, isn''t it simple? I can eat whatever you give me. I''m clearly not a picky eater."

    "How can I forget that," Shui Xian rubbed his forehead as he thought about that. He clearly can''t depend on her when ites to the food menu. She was someone who''d even ask him to order when they went out for dinner. How could she choose the menu for others when she can''t even do it for herself? It''s still his choice that''s the best when ites to food. "Fine, I''ll choose the menu on my own. No, I''ll take thedies'' opinion. The experts and gorgeousdies of the family. Yanyan and Aunt Yue."

    "Then that''s gonna be a very long discussion," was Raelle''s response. She knew how much Yanyan and Yue loved to feed people. They''d never be able toe up with the perfect menu without a long discussion. It might even go on for hours and hours. She patted his shoulder in encouragement, "I wish you the best of luck. Take some pills for headaches before sitting down with them. You''ll need it."

    "Okay, I''ll keep that in mind," Shui Xian shook his head at her. "But the cake is something you have toe with me to pick. I am not doing it alone," he told her.

    "Is something special about the cake?" she asked.

    "Just how clueless are you about the whole wedding stuff?" he couldn''t help asking.

    "I told you weddings are troublesome," she spoke in her defense. "It''s my first wedding. Why would I know about the details?"

 Chapter 789 Delivery Man

    Chapter 789 Delivery ManˇˇˇˇWhile Shui Xian and Raelle were lost in their own world, they didn''t notice that someone had been sitting on the other side listening to them all this while. Tang Hebe''s face was lowered and no one could tell what expression she wore at the moment. She had been sitting on the other side of the tree from the moment she talked with Shui Xian.

    She always had this habit of hiding behind a tree whenever she felt sad or upset. Hugging her knees, she would sit under the tree and cry her heart out. But today, even though her heart felt heavy after listening to Shui Xian''s words, she couldn''t cry.

    It was as if a part of her heart was unwilling to cry. No matter how painful it felt, she didn''t want to shed any tears. And that made her realize how time had really passed. Perhaps she had cried enough in the memories she couldn''t recall; now, even her body was unwilling to drop a single tear.

    It was ironic how the person who would alwayse to find her was today sitting with another person on the other side of the tree and nning his wedding. She should have left instead of listening to those two flirting so openly, but she didn''t want to move.

    Tang Hebe was actually very surprised when she heard Shui Xian humming that cheesy song to Raelle. In her memory, Shui Xian was a perfectionaist. He had OCD when it came to music. Music was his passion and he always took it very seriously. But today she just heard him singing like any other random person in love. Without a care for the tune, he just used the words that came to him to let out his feelings.

    That was something he never had done before.

    He''d never even let her hear his ipletepositions because he said, he wanted to perfect every tune before ying it for her. She couldn''t even count the number of times he had serenaded her with his guitar. But the feeling was different.

    At that time, he was ying like a musician. Today, he was just a man in love.

    Tang Hebe leaned her head against the tree and closed her eyes as she continued to hear their ns for the wedding. Although it sounded like they were nning their wedding together, she could tell that Shui Xian was the one doing everything, Raelle didn''t even know what happened at a wedding.

    Not gonna lie, she almost choked on her saliva when she heard Raelle say that the only thing to look forward to in a wedding was the wedding night. She had to say, this girl said whatever she wanted and from Shui Xian''s reaction, it could be seen that he was not even surprised by it. He''d definitely know what she was like.

    "You''ve really started a new chapter of your life," she muttered to herself. And as she epted that, she actually felt very light in her heart and a genuine smile spread on her face subconsciously. She touched the bandage around her head and sighed, "Then why is my brain forcing me to look back at the old chapters of life? I have to see where I stand in this timeline. And I really hope, I''m not stuck on you, Xian."

    When she noticed that Shui Xian and Raelle left, she stood up from the grass and patted her hospital gown beforeing out of behind the tree. She looked at their backs as they walked towards the hospital with a deep look in her eyes.

    "Ellie!"

    Raelle looked up at Hyson who was rushing towards her.

    "Can''t you stay in your ward? I almost got a heart attack," said Hyson as he fixed his mask when he noticed how a few teenagers were looking at him. He passed a cup to her, "Here, I brought you some red grape juice. It''s healthy and refreshing."

    "Thanks," said Raelle. She took the stic cup and put the straw between her lips before taking a sip. "It''s good."

    "I know, right?"

    "You didn''t make it, what are you proud of?" questioned Raelle.

    "But I brought it, I deserve the credit for that," said Hyson matter-of-factly.

    "Okay, Mr. Delivery man!"

    "Hey!" Hyson was definitely not happy with that name. "Have you ever seen a handsome deliveryman like me?"

    "Yes," she replied.

    "Where?" he asked.

    Raelle pointed at him, "Here."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and turned his face away to hide hisughter. He definitely won''t end well if either of these two best friends saw himughing.

    Hyson tsked at her since he couldn''t do anything else to her. His sharp eyes found someone and he raised his arm to greet, "Oh hi, Ms. Tang!"

    Tang Hebe didn''t think she''d get caught after hiding for so long and that too by Hyson. She obviously had quite an impression of this young man who was so lively and bright.

    Raelle also turned around but at the same time, someone walked past her and bumped into her arm. The ss shook in her hand and the red juice ended up spilling all over her hospital gown.

    Meanwhile, Tang Hebe who was moving toward them suddenly stopped after seeing this scene. Her feet froze and she couldn''t move anymore. Her eyes were locked on the red patch that was created on Raelle''s light bluish hospital gown. And that image suddenly ovepped with another image in her mind.

    White gown, blood...

    She suddenly found it hard to breathe and a splitting headache made her yelp in pain. There was fear and unwillingness in her eyes and a palpable sadness as she took a peek at Raelle and screamed. She crouched down on the ground while holding her head startling everyone around her.

    Hyson''s eyes widened and he ran toward her to help her. Shui Xian was still standing beside Raelle as he asked, "Are you okay?"

    "I just spilled some juice," said Raelle. "It''s no big deal. But she doesn''t seem fine. What happened?" She suddenly recalled something and said, "Why is her reaction the same as at the time of our ident?"

 Chapter 790 Surprise Visit

    Chapter 790 Surprise VisitˇˇˇˇSince the time Zhai Kuijun knew that Raelle had a miscarriage, he had been meaning to go to see her. But technically, he wasn''t that close to Raelle as well. So, he decided to pay Xiang Hulin a visit. Knowing that his friend was at the Xiang Manor, his resolve to go there only grew stronger. After all, he had been meaning to pay Xiang Tianyu a visit for a while.

    But things kepting up and he had been dyed for so long.

    So, today, he decided to skip work and pay the Xiang family a visit. He couldn''t keep dying it any longer.

    "What did you say? You''re going to visit Tianyu?" asked Grandfather Zhai to his son.

    "Yes," answered Zhai Kuijun. "I haven''t seen Uncle Yu in a long while. I''ll pay him a visit. Also, I heard Hulin is also at Xiang Manor, so I''ll see him along the way."

    Grandfather Zhai was actually surprised to hear that Xiang Hulin was at the Xiang Manor. "Sigh. It seems my friend hase back to his senses. Or maybe he is just getting old now."

    "You''re the same though," reminded Zhai Kuijun. "If he is old, you can''t be young."

    "You! Is this a way to talk to your father?" asked Grandfather Zhai in a stern tone but Zhai Kuijun clearly looked like the rebellious son who didn''t care about his father''s rage. It almost reminded Grandfather Zhai of how his son used to be. He shook his head and said, "Your father might be old but he is still young at heart. Unlike you! What''s the point of being young? Your heart is dead."

    Zhai Kuijun snickered, "Are you really throwing shade at your son?"

    "Can''t I?" retorted Grandfather Zhai.

    "As a respected Professor, this doesn''t suit you," said Zhai Kuijun.

    Before Grandfather Zhai could say anything, Grandmother Zhai spoke up, "Enough. Why are you both acting like kids? Stop it! Kuijun, if you''re visiting Brother Tian, that''s good. Send our regards. But don''t forget to meet Koshing on the way. He lives right next door. It won''t look good if you don''t go to see him."

    "That''s what I nned to do," said Zhai Kuijun. He originally nned on seeing Shui Koshing anyway. After all, Raelle was the daughter of the Xiang family but she was also the daughter-inw of the Shui family.

    "Then leave before your inwse down," said Grandma Zhai in a soft voice. "Seeing you will put them in a bad mood again. Let''s take their health into consideration."

    "Sure," said Zhai Kuijun and left the house.

    "Why did he suddenly think of visiting the Xiang family? And that too on a work day? Did something happen?" asked Grandma Zhai.

    "I didn''t hear anything," replied Grandpa Zhai.

    Grandma Zhai gave him a look of annoyance, "How will you hear anything? You''re always reading papers published by your students."

    Grandpa Zhai cleared his throat and chose to stay quiet. Of course, he never had been in touch with the gossip, how would he know what was going on in society? Especially, those upper echelons.

    On the other hand, Zhai Kuijun came to the Xiang Manor and registered himself at the security gate before entering the iron gates. His driver parked the car and before he could alight, he caught sight of Mu Chenyan standing beside a man and discussing something.

    "So, you''re saying Anna left early in the morning to see Raelle and hasn''te back yet?" Mu Chenyan was questioning the man.

    "Yes, Mistress," replied the man respectfully. "Missy called Team Leader toe and see her."

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head in understanding and waved him off, "Okay. You can go back then." Then she turned to enter the house while tutting to herself. "Aiyo, my Elle is really fast. I knew you won''t let it go." She already knew what Raelle must be up to and she didn''t n on interceding anyway.

    Neither could she do it. If it was Raelle''s orders, everyone had to listen to her. Even Mu Chenyan would have to listen to her.

    Zhai Kuijun looked at her back and followed her. She was lost in her own thoughts and didn''t even notice his presence at all. And that''s why she closed the door and went in while he was left standing outside.

    "Do I have such a weak presence?" he questioned himself. He never thought his presence was so weak that someone could ignore him so tantly. But clearly, Mu Chenyan was not just ''someone'' she could definitely ignore his whole existence if she wanted to do so.

    He rang the doorbell and waited. Surprisingly, the door was opened by Xiang Wai.

    "Uncle!" she called out in surprise. "You? Here?"

    "Why? I''m not weed here?" he asked jokingly.

    Xiang Wai shook her head, "No, no. That''s not what I meant. Please,e inside."

    "Thank you," said Zhai Kuijun and stepped inside. This was his first timeing to visit the Xiang family here so he wasn''t familiar with the ce. That''s why he continued to follow Xiang Wai as he chatted with her, "How is Weimin? Is he recovering well?"

    "Yes, Ge is doing better now," said Xiang Wai. "He can walk now. But he is eager to get back to work. But Papa won''t allow it. And neither with Grandpa."

    "That boy is always eager to get to work,"mented Zhai Kuijun helplessly. "Doesn''t even like to think about his health."

    "Yeah, that''s how he is," smiled Xiang Wai and agreed.

    Zhai Kuijun gave her a look, "He is not alone though. All of you Xiang family''s soldiers have the same temperaments and habits when ites to your job."

    Xiang Wai rubbed the tip of her nose awkwardly since she couldn''t argue with him or refute his words.

    "Uncle, you''re here to see Papa?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "I''ll see him too," replied Zhai Kuijun. "But mostly, I''m here to meet Uncle Yu."

    "Grandpa?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Yes," answered Zhai Kuijun.

    "Grandpa and Papa are ying chess together," told Xiang Wai. "I''ll call them for you." She directed him to the living room, "Why don''t you sit here and wait?"

 Chapter 791 A Lot To Learn

    Chapter 791 A Lot To Learnˇˇˇˇ"Papa, Grandpa, Uncle Kuijun is here," reported Xiang Wai.

    "You lost," said Grandfather Xiang to his son righteously.

    Xiang Hulin looked back at the chess board and frowned. He felt like something was wrong. The position of his piece was wrong. Did his father do it? He looked up at his father and mentally shook his head. That wasn''t possible? That was his own father. The father he had looked up to all his life and admired so much. How could the respectable Xiang Tianyu do something despicable like cheating?

    And that too in a chess game?

    He was a master of chess.

    Maybe it was him who remembered it wrong. Yes, that could be the only reason.

    "What are you staring at?" asked Grandfather Xiang without even feeling guilty about the trick he just yed with his own son.

    Poor General Xiang Hulin was still oblivious to the fact that after all these years, Hyson had a huge influence on Grandfather Xiang. So, ying a small trick like moving the position of a chess piece was no big deal. At least, he won.

    "Nothing," said Xiang Hulin. "I was just thinking how good you are at chess even now."

    "Of course," Grandfather Xiang took thatpliment without feeling embarrassed.

    "Who did you say is here?" asked Xiang Hulin to his daughter.

    "Uncle Kuijun," repeated Xiang Wai. Actually, she had seen what happened in that split second when his father''s attention was grabbed by her voice earlier. She knew clearly what her grandfather did but she didn''t expose him at all.

    It didn''t seem like her father mind losing to her grandfather. So, why would she poke her nose into their matter? She''d just let them y the way they wanted.

    "Kuijun?" asked Xiang Hulin. "What is he doing here?"

    "He said he is here to visit grandfather," she told him. "And along the way, he decided to say hello to you."

    Xiang Hulin nodded his head and looked at his father.

    "Go and greet your friend," said Grandfather Xiang. "I''ll be there in a while."

    "Yes, father," Xiang Hulin stood up obediently and went to the living room.

    Once he was gone, Xiang Wai looked at her grandfather, "Grandpa, I saw what you did there?"

    "Oh, what did I do?" Grandfather Xiang was stillposed. "I was just teaching my son a lesson."

    "Oh? What''s that lesson? I should also learn as his daughter."

    "In a battlefield, distraction is not allowed," replied Grandfather Xiang. "You don''t know when the enemy might catch up to you. So, always be on your toes."

    Xiang Wai nodded her head, "That''s a very good lesson. But I think Papa only let his guard down because he wasn''t expecting you to trick him."

    "All the more reason for him to learn well," said Grandfather Xiang. "Trust is good but blind trust can lead to your death. Sometimes the people you don''t guard against are the ones who dig your grave."

    Xiang Wai pped her hands saying, "Grandfather is still grandfather. I really have a lot to learn from you." She took a pause and added, "Did you teach it all to Raelle?"

    Grandfather Xiang nodded his head, "Yes. I taught her whatever I could."

    "No wonder she has so much to say," muttered Xiang Wai.

    "You should be d she is willing to say a few more words to you," said Grandfather Xiang. "With people, she has no interest in, she doesn''t even waste her breath and cherish her words like a treasure."

    "Really? Does she treasure her words more than money?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "She doesn''t treasure money. There are five things that she values. Trust, loyalty, her time, her words, and the people she calls family," told Grandfather Xiang to Xiang Wai. "Money is something she is capable of earning. She nevercked it so she never treasured it. But that doesn''t mean she ever stops talking about it."

    Xiang Wai walked with Grandfather Xiang who operated his wheelchair to go into the living room. "Go and tell someone to bring tea for us."

    "Okay," replied Xiang Wai and left.

    Grandfather Xiang entered the living room and found Zhai Kuijun teasing his son.

    "You must be on cloud nine," Zhai Kuijun poked Xiang Hulin with his elbow. "You didn''t even tell me that you got the entry into the house."

    Xiang Hulin actually had a veryplicated look on his face when he faced his good friend. What could he do? He already knew that Zhai Kuijun had been desperately looking for Yue Yue and currently, the same Yue Yue was residing in this very house. It seemed fate really knew how to y.

    "I was gonna tell you," said Xiang Hulin. "But I was still reeling from this feeling of surreality. I decided to wait to confirm that it was all true and not just a dream."

    "Don''t talk nonsense with me," said Zhai Kuijun. "I already know, seeing your sister and your father, you forgot the rest of the world. No need to give me that crappy excuse of yours."

    "If you already know, why are you even asking me that pointless question?" asked Xiang Hulin.

    "Whatever! I was very happy for you when Jun told me about it," said Zhai Kuijun. "But... I also heard about Raelle."

    Xiang Hulin''s expression changed when he heard that. He tried to control his emotions and said, "Somethings are really not in our control."

    Zhai Kuijun nodded in agreement, "I for sure understand that." He took a pause and added, "I was actually nning on going to the hospital to see Raelle but Jun said I better not go there."

    "Raelle doesn''t like peopleing to visit the sick," came Grandfather Xiang''s voice as he came inside. "Even if she is sick, she never likes to be treated as a patient."

    This had to be the first time, so many people got to visit her at the hospital. Before that, whenever she was sick, she didn''t even want her own grandfather toe to see her since he''d always get depressed just seeing her sick. And more than her own illness, his health mattered more to her.

 Chapter 792 Virtuous Lady

    Chapter 792 Virtuous Ladyˇˇˇˇ"Uncle Yu!" called out Zhai Kuijun and stood up to greet him. He actually stood so straight that it looked funny.

    However, Xiang Hulin didn''t dareugh in front of his father.

    From this could be seen that his father''s prestige was still great. Even Zhai Kuijun was still a little scared of him at this age. Xiang Hulin had to say, Grandfather Xiang was only good to the people of his granddaughter''s generation. As for everyone from his son''s generation, they were terrified of the terror he once was.

    "Rx," said Grandfather Xiang. "You''re acting as if I''m gonna eat you or something."

    Zhai Kuijunughed awkwardly, "No, no. That''s not what I meant."

    "Just sit down," said Grandfather Xiang. "How did you decide toe to see us?"

    "I have been nning to pay you a visit for a while," told Zhai Kuijun. "It just kept dying because of some matters."

    Grandfather Xiang was actually observing Zhai Kuijun intently. He was meeting him after years. But the main reason for him to look so closely at Zhai Kuijun this time around was that he was looking at Zhai Kuijun as Hyson''s father. Before this, he always faced Zhai Kuijun as his friend''s son and nothing more than that.

    Meanwhile, Zhai Kuijun who didn''t know what Grandfather Xiang was thinking felt very intimidated by his gaze. He was actually sweating right now. He couldn''t believe he was still so suppressed before Grandfather Xiang.

    Even Xiang Hulin could tell what his father was doing and he could understand what his friend was going through. But he really couldn''t help him right now. He was no match for his father even now. It was better to stay far away from this matter to save himself. He could only say sorry to his friend mentally for abandoning him at this time.

    "Uncle, how is your health?" asked Zhai Kuijun as he tried to get rid of this intimidating silence that seemed to have an invisible grasp around his neck and was squeezing it.

    "At my age, you always have a few health problems," said Grandfather Xiang casually. "It''s no big deal. But I should be asking you, why do you look so frail?"

    Zhai Kuijun was taken aback by his question, "I''m absolutely fine. I just didn''t sleep wellst night. Maybe that''s why I''m looking so out of sorts."

    "Is that so?"

    "Yes," reassured Zhai Kuijun.

    "I heard you got a divorce," mentioned Grandfather Xiang.

    Zhai Kuijun stiffened before replying, "Yes, I got divorced. Uncle is still well informed."

    "It''s not like I want to know about your personal matters," said Grandfather Xiang. "Clearly, you don''t realize the waves your ex-wife had been creating since the divorce."

    Zhai Kuijun frowned, "What do you mean, Uncle Yu?"

    "You should find out yourself," replied Grandfather Xiang.

    He didn''t continue to talk when he noticed Xiang Waiing with a maid who served the tea and the snacks for everyone.

    "Do you need anything else, Grandpa?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "You should ask our guest," replied Grandfather Xiang.

    "Uncle?" Xiang Wai turned to Zhai Kuijun.

    He shook his head and smiled at her, "I don''t need anything." He took a pause to add, "But I see you are really taking care of your grandfather well."

    "Why? Are you surprised?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Truthfully, I am a little surprised," answered Zhai Kuijun honestly. "But I''m also happy to see you like this."

    Xiang Wai gaped at him, "Woah! Uncle, you wanted me to be a virtuousdy all this while?"

    "What? No!" said Zhai Kuijun. "But I was hoping that you''d learn to take care of yourself and those around you instead of running around all the time without any care for your life."

    "That sounds more like what Ge does," she retorted.

    "No, you''re also the same," he said.

    "You don''t have to be so nitpicky with my granddaughter," remarked Grandfather Xiang. "It''s not like you''re gonna make her your daughter-inw."

    Xiang Wai was stunned when she heard her grandfather saying that and pursed her lips. Sheughed thatment off nonchntly before saying, "I''m gonna go and find my Ge." She just exited the living room when she ran into Mu Chenyan and asked, "Aunt, the house is very quiet today."

    Mu Chenyan smiled at her, "Wai if you want to ask where Fai is, just ask. No need to go round about it." She shook her head and answered, "He went to deliver fresh juice to Raelle."

    "Huh?"

    "Yes, he had to do it himself," answered Mu Chenyan.

    "He can really use all sorts of excuses, eh?" asked Xiang Wai in surprise.

    "That''s one of his talents," replied Mu Chenyan.

    Since they were talking at the door, the people inside the living room all heard them clearly. Zhai Kuijun couldn''t help asking, "Hyson lives here?"

    "Why? He isn''t allowed to?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    "No, that''s not what I was saying," said Zhai Kuijun. He was just asking because he was curious, okay? No need to get offended by that.

    "Elder Xiang, it''s time for your leg massage," came Mu Chenyan''s voice from the door. She didn''t evene inside to see who was sitting inside.

    "Father, let me help you," said Xiang Hulin.

    "There is no need," replied Grandfather Xiang. "You sit with your friend. Chenyan will manage it."

    "Then I''ll just take you back to your room," said Xiang Hulin and didn''t wait for a response from his father. He was eager to do something for his father. Anything would be fine. But apparently, everything was done by Mu Chenyan. "I''ll be right back," he said to Zhai Kuijun who nodded his head in response.

    When he was alone in the room, he picked up a cake and bit into it. After that, he sipped on the tea. Then he stood up to look around the living room. He was standing before the window that looked over the backyard and just casually looked over.

 Chapter 793 Summer Heat

    Chapter 793 Summer HeatˇˇˇˇIn the garden, Yue Yue was crouching down and pulled out some leeks from the small vegetable patch they had grown in the backyard. She craved to eat some noodles with leeks so she especially came to take the fresh leeks from the garden herself.

    But seeing that red and round tomato she was tempted and almost salivated. She plucked off two tomatoes and was about to take a bite into the juicy tomato when a hand held her wrist and stopped her.

    Yue Yue turned her head and looked at the maid who stopped her with a look of displeasure. Of course, she wasn''t pleased.

    "Sorry for being presumptuous," said the maid. "But you can''t eat this. Let me wash it for you and then you can eat it."

    Yue Yue obviously didn''t wish to wait and her face actually said it all.

    The maid could only say, "Although we don''t use pesticides, there are still germs on the vegetables. We shouldn''t consume them so carelessly." Of course, she had to be attentive around Yue Yue or else she''d have to face Mu Chenyan''s wrath.

    And who wanted to face Mu Chenyan? That woman protected Yue Yue like a pearl.

    But everyone in this family tacitly agreed that Yue Yue needed protection. Just a delicate woman would evoke anyone''s sense of protection.

    Yue Yue sighed silently and nodded her head. What else could she do? She knew the maid was saying it for her good. She couldn''t possibly be angry with someone for caring about her.

    As she was sulking to herself, she felt an intense gaze. She frowned to herself and turned her head. And that''s when her eyes met Zhai Kuijun who was staring wide-eyed at her through the window of the living room. Zhai Kuijun''s eyes widened even further when Yue Yue turned her head and looked right into his eyes.

    Zhai Kuijun was in disbelief and felt like he was tripping right now. He lifted his hands and rubbed his eyes. But when he opened his eyes, Yue Yue was gone. That startled him and he almost stered his body against the window but she was really gone! How could someone vanish right before his eyes? Did that even make sense?

    Even if he thought he was tripping, he still wanted to believe that what he saw was the real person and not just his imagination. He was certain he was getting old but he hadn''t lost his mind yet! He definitely saw her just now. Then where did she go?

    He calmed himself down and thought about it. If he saw the person here, she had to be here. He turned around and decided to check it out in the garden.

    Meanwhile, the person who actually vanished in the blink of an eye was currently crawling behind the bush. It''s not that she wanted to hide from Zhai Kuijun but... It seemed her body was used to hiding after so many years. Now, she instinctively felt like she had to hide. But after hiding, she thought about why was she hiding?

    Was she a criminal? Why did she feel the need to hide?

    Mu Chenyan was right, she did nothing wrong. So, why was she trying too hard to run? It didn''t make sense.

    But now that she was already behind the bushes, she just continued to crawl towards the back door to enter the house. She knew she had toe face to face with Zhai Kuijun but she wasn''t ready today. She''ll face him another day. For today, let''s just continue to hide.

    She definitely didn''t think there was anything wrong with her thinking. She didn''t even realize that her mentality was exactly like those people who said they''ll start dieting tomorrow but the truth was, their tomorrow never came. Even if she realized this, she won''t think there was anything wrong with her mentality.

    On the other hand, Zhai Kuijun was about to go out when he ran into Xiang Hulin who came back. Looking at Zhai Kuijun''s expressions, he raised his brow.

    "Where are you going?" asked Xiang Hulin.

    "I just saw Yue!" eximed Zhai Kuijun excitedly.

    Xiang Hulin instantly understood why Zhai Kuijun looked so excited all of a sudden. "Oh, where?" asked Xiang Hulin keeping his poker face up.

    Zhai Kuijun didn''t hide and told him, "In the back garden."

    "How is that possible?" questioned Xiang Hulin.

    Zhai Kuijun tsked at him, "Do you think I am a fool? I obviously saw her. If you don''t believe me, let me pass. I have to check it myself. Don''t waste my time here."

    "Okay, I''ll go with you to check it out," Xiang Hulin didn''t try to act obviously in front of Zhai Kuijun. He couldn''t leave any w in his performance right now.

    Zhai Kuijun didn''t think much about Xiang Hulin and said, "Okay. Then let''s go together."

    Then with Xiang Hulin, he went to the back garden but didn''t see anyone. He looked around but didn''t find a single soul in sight. This really exasperated him.

    "Where is she?" asked Xiang Hulin casually. "Are you sure you saw her here?"

    "I''m sure," retorted Zhai Kuijun. "She was standing right here. And our eyes even met. I''m sure she saw me. But then she... Disappeared." He was gonna go crazy just thinking about this.

    "Tsk. That was definitely your imagination," stated Xiang Hulin. He patted Zhai Kuijun''s shoulder and said, "Don''t worry. It happens. Summers are hot. We can get such hallucinations. No big deal."

    Zhai Kuijun''s lips twitched when he heard Xiang Hulin''s words. What did he mean? That he was having hallucinations because the heat of this summer got to his head? Then howe it only happened now? Even when he got heatstroke, he didn''t any hallucinations!

    The more he thought about this situation, the more he felt something was wrong. He wasn''t the young Zhai Kuijun who didn''t understand people that well. But now, he was able to see and understand a lot of things. Like right now, he felt like something was seriously wrong with Xiang Hulin''s reaction.

 Chapter 794 Found You

    Chapter 794 Found YouˇˇˇˇZhai Kuijun looked at Xiang Hulin suspiciously while Xiang Hulin pretended like he couldn''t see what was going on with his friend. He definitely didn''t want to y with his friend like this. After all, in all these years, Zhai Kuijun had been very close to him and they were already like close brothers. He never thought he''d have to betray his brother like this one day.

    But we can''t predict the future.

    Even if he didn''t want to do it, he still had to wrong his good brother for now.

    "Hulin," called out Zhai Kuijun.

    "Hm? Yes?" answered Xiang Hulin.

    "Why do you look so suspicious right now?" asked Zhai Kuijun.

    "Huh? How so?" inquired Xiang Hulin.

    "You purposely dyed me inside the house," said Zhai Kuijun. He wasn''t as big of a fool as everyone was clearly taking him to be. Even if he didn''t much about that earlier because of his emotional state, that didn''t mean he won''t notice these minor details now that he was sober again.

    "Why would I do that?" asked Xiang Hulin.

    "Even if I had to have hallucinations, why would I have it the very first time I came to the Xiang Manor?" asked Zhai Kuijun. "Do I really look that naive to you?"

    "Not naive but you aren''t big of a schemer either," Xiang Hulin couldn''t help saying. He even wanted to add that if he was a schemer then he wouldn''t have been defeated and betrayed by his ex-wife so much. But Xiang Hulin held himself back from doing so. This was his own good friend, he couldn''t stab him right where it hurt.

    "As if you know how to scheme," Zhai Kuijun shot back at him.

    "I''m an upright General," said Xiang Hulin. "Why would I resort to petty tricks?"

    "Then stop ying tricks with me," said Zhai Kuijun loudly before he ran towards the house. He wasn''t willing to believe that what he saw was just a mirage. Was he so gullible to believe that his seeing Yue Yue here was so coincidental? The woman whom he hadn''t seen in years was suddenly seen in the Xiang Manor. And he was supposed to take it as just his dream?

    Even if it was a dream, he had to first confirm it!

    "What the...!" Xiang Hulin was left sighing behind Zhai Kuijun. "Did his brain alsoe back online after his divorce? Why is he suddenly so perceptive?" He shook his head, "Well, I could only do this much for you little sister Yue. Hope you''re already hiding well." With that thought, he followed Zhai Kuijun back to the house.

    But clearly, his prayer didn''t work. Yue Yue was just about to rush upstairs to her room to hide when Zhai Kuijun suddenly appeared. He saw the same figure he saw in the garden running up the stairs and rushed over to hold her arm.

    Because he did it so abruptly, Yue Yue was startled and skipped a step making her body fall backward. She was horrified but instead of falling down, she fell against a warm chest. Yue Yue''s whole body stiffened when she realized who was behind her. She didn''t even have to look behind her to know.

    Even after years, he still smelled like he did years ago.

    She suddenly recalled what her son said the other day, ''You can''t run forever.''

    It seemed, her running ended today.

    For a while, there was silence around them and all she heard was the sound of his breath behind her. He didn''t move and didn''t even say anything. As if he was really trying to take in this reality. He had spent years wondering where or how he''ll find her but now that he did, it was taking him longer than he expected to even take in this moment.

    "I finally found you," he whispered making Yue Yue''s ears numb.

    He supported her to stand up on the step of the stairs properly. As she found her bnce, she wondered if she could run once again. Of course, that was her wishful thinking so she dropped the idea and turned around slowly to face him.

    No, she didn''t face him directly. Her eyes were lowered, she didn''t dare to look into his eyes.

    Meanwhile, Zhai Kuijun was staring at her face with a look of relief visible on his face. His whole body felt so light all of a sudden as if a very heavy burden was lifted off his chest. His eyes were stinging as he felt so emotional right now. He really found her and she was... Alive!

    Don''t think that just because he didn''t believe others, he wasn''t fearful. He was really scared that what people said was true and she was really no more in this world. But now he could let go of that thought. She was alive. She was standing right in front of him. He really found her!

    Hearing the sound of footsteps, Zhai Kuijun looked down and saw Xiang Hulin. His face darkened and he came down to stand before his good brother!

    "Who is she?" asked Zhai Kuijun as he pointed toward Yue Yue. "Isn''t that Yue?"

    Xiang Hulin still pretended to be oblivious as he asked in surprise, "What? That''s the Yue you''ve been looking for?"

    Zhai Kuijun''s face darkened and he so wanted to beat this good brother of his. Sadly, that was a pipe dream. He could only swallow it up!

    "You know clearly who she is!" Zhai Kuijun said through gritted teeth. He looked like he was imagining to be grinding Xiang Hulin''s bones between his teeth.

    Xiang Hulin actually found his friend to be quite amusing at the moment. So, he decided to continue and said, "I know. She is our family''s little sister." He even smiled brightly at his friend as he said that. "She only looks like the Yue Yue you knew, she isn''t her."

    "What?!" Zhai Kuijun almost went ballistic at this moment when he heard his good brother speaking so much nonsense to fool him. He felt like he was on the verge of getting another stroke right now. That''s how mad he was!

 Chapter 795 Say Something

    Chapter 795 Say SomethingˇˇˇˇAt this moment, Xiang Hulin was supposed to sympathize with his good brother but he just couldn''t do so. He was an unprincipled brother. When it came to his sister, he''d purposely be stupid and do anything. He could even be a horse for his sister when they were young. Bing a viin to his good friend Mu Chenyan was no big deal to Xiang Hulin.

    Besides, it''s not like he was really hurting Zhai Kuijun right now. At most, he was annoying him as much as he could. When would he find such a chance again if he missed it today? Life was already very boring since he climbed the ranks and became a General.

    "It''s true," repeated Xiang Hulin. "She only looks simr to Yue Yue. She isn''t the person you''re looking for. If she was, would I have hidden it from you? Never!" Xiang Hulin still spoke with a straight face. And the more he said it, even he was mentally hypnotizing himself that the woman who looked like Yue Yue was not Yue Yue.

    Seeing how serious and sincere he sounded, Zhai Kuijun even doubted himself for a second but instantly shook his head before he could fall deeper into the deception of Xiang Hulin. He''d be a real fool if he actually fell for it right now.

    "Ha! As if I''d believe you," he shot back at Xiang Hulin. "Do I look like a fool?"

    Xiang Hulin actually nodded making Zhai Kuijun stare at him in disbelief and Xiang Hulin instantly changed the direction of his head and started shaking his head.

    "How is that possible? You''re very smart," said Xiang Hulin and he actually meant it. After all, Zhai Kuijun was a smart person. Or else, as aplete newbie in business, without any backing or foundation, he wouldn''t have been able to seed on his own.

    "I never thought you''d do this to me, Hulin," said Zhai Kuijun and he actually sounded very wronged. As if he wasn''t expecting this betrayal.

    Xiang Hulin touched his earlobe and didn''t say anything.

    Zhai Kuijun hmphed at him and went back to Yue Yue''s side. "Why are you still there? Come down here!"

    Yue Yue pursed her lips and walked down to stand right in front of him. She even sped her hands before her as she stood there like a child who was about to be reprimanded by an elder.

    Seeing her like this, Zhai Kuijun''s lips curled up slightly. Even after years, she still had this habit. Whenever she did something wrong, she''d stand just like that before him and dare not to look into his eyes. Just seeing her like this would soften his heart and it was still the same.

    "What are you looking down for? I''m standing right here," said Zhai Kuijun. "Look up!"

    Yue Yue looked up and met his eyes. He looked more mature than she remembered. But what really startled her was his eyes. That carelessness and mischief she loved about him were suddenly missing. He always had that pride visible on his face and even that was gone. He looked a lot serious and a little... lost.

    Her heart actually hurt when she noticed these minute details. He looked so worn out. What happened? She was genuinely curious about it. In all these years, she never actively tried to inquire about him. So, she really didn''t know anything. It was only after meeting Zhai Yanjun that she learned that things were not peaceful in his family even when she was no longer around.

    On the other hand, Zhai Kuijun was also observing her intently. She didn''t look much different. She just shed off theyer of youthfulness but the rest of her was still the same. She still looked like that delicate little girl who needed his protection.

    He had so many things to say to her but he didn''t know where to start? He needed to ask so many things.

    "You''re really heartless," he said to her.

    Yue Yue blinked at him. Was she? Was she really heartless? She didn''t know that. If he said it, maybe she was really heartless. Her thoughts had always been this simple, if he said it, she''d just believe it. She thought she had her own thoughts after being independent for years but clearly, he still had a strong influence on her. It was just that he wasn''t around all this time so she thought she had changed.

    "How are you?" asked Zhai Kuijun. "I have wanted to know this for years. But I couldn''t find you anywhere. You really left me no way to even know how you''re doing? Do you realize how worried I have been? I have had countless nightmares. I had been living in fear that something really happened to you. But now that I''ve found you, you''re still not willing to tell me how you are?"

    Yue Yue was taken aback by his words and shook her head in response.

    "What? You really don''t want to even tell me how you are? Or you''re gonna fool me like Hulin that you''re not Yue?" he asked. "I definitely can recognize you. I''m old but I didn''t get dimentia. I can still recognize you after years. And I can''t be wrong. No one knows you better than me. So, you might be able to fool others but not me."

    Yue Yue again shook her head. She definitely didn''t want to fool him. She opened her mouth but couldn''t even say a word. Argh! She hated this. Why didn''t she keep her phone around? How was she supposed to answer him now?

    "Yue," called Zhai Kuijun seeing her silence. It really hurt him when she wasn''t even willing to speak to him. What did he do wrong? The rims of his eyes reddened as he said, "Say something."

    He sounded so desperate that Yue Yue''s tears fell down as well. How was she supposed to say something? How? Just how? She found it so unfair that she couldn''t say anything right now to him.

 Chapter 796 Second Male Lead

    Chapter 796 Second Male LeadˇˇˇˇSeeing Xiang Hulin standing aside, she ran over to him and dragged him towards Zhai Kuijun. She made hand signs to let him interpret them for her.

    She learned from Mu Chenyan that Xiang Hulin could not only understand signnguage but also read lips. She was the fool who thought he couldn''t understand her and used her phone tomunicate with him.

    Xiang Hulin did indeed understand the signnguage and he sighed when he understood what Yue Yue wanted him to say to Zhai Kuijun. He looked at his good friend and really didn''t want to break this news to him. He felt like he was really gonna be the viin but Yue Yue kept urging him so he had to say it.

    "She said it''s not that she doesn''t want to say anything to you, it''s just that she can''t do it."

    Zhai Kuijun was already dazed when he saw her making those hand signs. His brain buzzed as he momentarily didn''t register anything. He looked at Yue and whispered, "Why don''t you speak?"

    Yue Yue looked up at Xiang Hulin and gestured to tell him.

    Xiang Hulin looked at her before nodding. He turned to Zhai Kuijun and told him, "She can''t speak. She lost her voice."

    "No," Zhai Kuijun staggered a little. He was in disbelief. "How is that possible? That can''t be right. Did you have vocal cord surgery and the doctors asked you to stay quiet for a while? Or maybe you have a sore throat. Yes, that''s right. How can you lose your voice."

    Xiang Hulin couldn''t reallyugh at his friend anymore. Although they were acting like two kids earlier, they were still good friends. And he definitely cared about Zhai Kuijun. He could understand the emotional turmoil he was going through and he could also see his disbelief. Well, he couldn''t me Zhai Kuijun for this.

    As much as he knew Zhai Kuijun, he understood that currently, Zhai Kuijun must be ming himself again. He definitely was thinking that if he had found Yue Yue earlier, nothing would have happened. No, if only he had been at home that night, Yue Yue would never have to wander in this world all alone. And she wouldn''t have to suffer this...

    How could he not know how much she cherished her voice?

    "Kuijun, stop deceiving yourself," said Xiang Hulin. "Also, this has nothing to do with you."

    When Yue Yue heard Xiang Hulin''s words she also nodded her head to show that she agreed with those words. This had nothing to do with Zhai Kuijun. How could she let him take the me? This had nothing to do with him at all.

    In fact, she should be the one to take the me for ruining his life. If she hadn''t been close to him, Yue Lan would have never targeted him. And also, she was the one who pushed Yue Lan into Zhai Kuijun''s life. So whatever happened was because of her own foolishness. She would never me anyone for it. She hardly even med her parents. Why would she me this man who always did everything in his power to protect her?

    If he hadn''t been around, her childhood would have been really miserable.

    She used her hand signs again and Xiang Hulin interpreted them for her, "She said none of this is your doing. You shouldn''t me yourself for it."

    "How can I not?" asked Zhai Kuijun. He was feeling so dizzy at the moment.

    Seeing his condition, Xiang Hulin supported him with his arms and said, "First of all, you need to calm down. I know this is a huge blow to you but you have to stay calm. Don''t take the stress. Look at the bright side, you found her. After all your efforts, you found her and your belief was right. Even when I strongly believed that she was gone, you insisted that she was alive. So, you should be happy that she is alive. Stop focusing on other things for now."

    Yue Yue also looked worried for him and wanted to move but held herself back. She couldn''t just pretend like they were still the same old friends they once were. She had to keep her distance. An appropriate distance.

    She suddenly ran towards the kitchen and was back within a minute with a phone in her hand. While panting, she didn''t stop typing and used the voice function to say, ''Brother Kuijun, you did nothing wrong. You don''t have to worry about me. I''m fine. Didn''t you just ask how I am? I am really fine. And very happy as well. So, you shouldn''t worry about me at all.''

    Zhai Kuijun was silent for a moment before a maid came to offer him some water. Clearly, Yue Yue asked for that when she went to the kitchen to literally snatch Mu Chenyan''s phone. So, right now, even Mu Chenyan came out to see what was up. She was having an important call but her dear best friend decided to take her phone.

    No, she wasn''t mad at her. But she was really curious about what was so important?

    But once her eyes fell on Zhai Kuijun, she immediately understood what was so important. Tsk. Tsk. Even after years, she couldn''t take the ce of this man in Yue Yue''s heart. Mu Chenyan suddenly felt like a failure. How could she ept losing to a man? She was unreconciled.

    If others knew her thoughts, they''d definitely want to know what she was going on about? She was acting like the second male lead of a drama who couldn''t win the heart of the female lead even after doing everything for the female lead.

    But the current situation wasn''t that different. Clearly, Mu Chenyan was the one ying the role of the second male lead. The only problem was that she was not a man. But shh... You better not say that out loud. If you let Mu Chenyan knew that she was not only beingpared to a man but she also had to lose from a man? You''d definitely be getting a beating.

    After all, she was more handsome than any man and she was definitely better than most men out there! No arguments allowed on that!

    Yes! She was just that tyrannical.

 Chapter 797 Full Of Surprises

    Chapter 797 Full Of Surprisesˇˇˇˇ"What is he doing here?" asked Mu Chenyan in a sour voice. Then she looked at the tears in Yue Yue''s eyes and her fighting spirit was ignited. "You bastard! You just stepped inside my home and already started hurting my family! Who gave you the courage?"

    Mu Chenyan was really gonna beat Zhai Kuijun if not for her dear brother who stepped between them and said, "Rx. Chenchen, you need to calm down first and understand the situation first."

    "What''s there to understand?" she rolled up her sleeves and wanted to jump over to throw a punch.

    "He didn''t do anything," said Xiang Hulin as he tried to stop this tigress from beating Zhai Kuijun. He knew very well how heavy handed Mu Chenyan could be. He didn''t want Zhai Kuijun to suffer physically as well. Poor man was already having a mental and emotional copse from knowing that Yue Yue couldn''t speak anymore.

    "Ge!" Mu Chenyan looked straight at her brother. "Step aside."

    Xiang Hulin opened his mouth to say something but she stopped him.

    "I said, step aside."

    Xiang Hulin cursed under his breath. He could do anything except for going against his sister. He was the real sis-con of the Xiang family. He lost all his momentum and imposing air whenever his sister stood beside him. In a way, he was the one really deserved some recognition for being the best brother to Mu Chenyan. After all, he was someone who was willing to do anything to spoil her.

    He could only give a look to Zhai Kuijun, "Sorry, I really can''t help you."

    Zhai Kuijun was still reeling from the sudden revtion and he hadn''t calmed down yet. How could he understand this sudden reversal of the situation?

    But before Mu Chenyan could really move against him, Yue Yue held her back. "Little Yue, let go!" said Mu Chenyan. "Let me teach him how to behave like a human. Is he here to be the ghost of your past? Then he should ask for my permission first and see if I allow him to make you cry."

    Yue Yue shook her head and red at Mu Chenyan. Since her hands were holding Mu Chenyan''s arms to stop her from moving, she could only use her lips to let her know, ''Stop it! He didn''t even do anything. I''m the crybaby who just couldn''t help crying. How is it his fault?''

    Mu Chenyan could easily shake off Yue Yue''s hands but she didn''t do it. She held back and asked seriously, "Even if he didn''t do anything. Didn''t you cry because you saw his face? It''s his face that''s the problem here. Let me just change the shape or maybe color of that face."

    Yue Yue smacked on her back, ''Don''t be so hot-headed all the time. I''m fine!''

    Mu Chenyan pouted to herself and tsked, "You clearly don''t look fine."

    Yue Yue looked at Zhai Kuijun who was still staring at her in silence. She sighed silently. ''Give us some space. I''ll talk to him.''

    "You want to?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Xiang Hulin looked at Mu Chenyan, "Let them talk. You need to really calm down." He even patted her head like he was consoling her and lowered his voice to say, "You''re not getting betrayed. Stop acting like we are in a melodrama."

    Mu Chenyan looked at her brother in surprise but she soon calmed down. Indeed, so what if they hadn''t been together for years. He was still someone who knew her best. He could even read her thoughts. And she should feel a bit embarrassed for her thoughts being exposed but she wasn''t. Her brother knew her inside out. She didn''t have to feel embarrassed at all.

    "Fine, take him to another room," said Mu Chenyan but then turned to Zhai Kuijun and gestured with his hands as she said, "I''m watching you."

    Xiang Hulin shook his head at his sister but didn''t forget to tell Zhai Kuijun, "Just wanted to let you know, Yue Yue is family which means she is protected by Xiang family." He patted his shoulder as he added, "Thought I should let you know." With that he left with Mu Chenyan.

    Meanwhile, Zhai Kuijun was left dumbstruck by Xiang Hulin''s words. ''Yue Yue is family?'' he repeated in his mind. ''Protected by the Xiang family?'' That statement was heavy. And Zhai Kuijun understood the value of it better than anyone.

    Xiang family had always been loyal people. Once they called you their own, they''ll keep protecting you till the end. But gaining this family''s trust wasn''t easy because every single person from the Xiang family liked to keep their social circle private. He didn''t understand how Yue Yue managed to get into this family but one thing was certain, he was very happy for her.

    Why wouldn''t he be?

    Xiang family could protect Yue Yue like no one else. And from a very young age, Yue Yue only needed protection but no one was willing to offer it. But once Qian Yin offered that protection to Yue Yue andter Zhai Kuijun. And both were the people who mattered the most to Yue Yue.

    Suddenly, all the worries in his mind were gone. He didn''t have to worry about Yue anymore. She found herself a very protected and warm home. One that she deserved.

    "You really have some talent," he said to Yue who was surprised to hear that. "First, it was Qian Yin who''d stand up for you and now, you actually tamed the devil called Mu Chenyan? Why are you still so full of surprises?"

    Yue Yue pursed her lips not knowing how to respond to that. Was it a talent? No, more like it was her good luck. Maybe all her luck was used to find her people like her Yin Jie and now Mu Chenyan. Although she always wanted Mu Chenyan to ept her as the older one, that didn''t mean she didn''t like it when the other person spoiled her.

 Chapter 798 A Home

    Chapter 798 A Homeˇˇˇˇ"But they both don''t like me," said Zhai Kuijun.

    Yue Yue brought him to sit in the sunroom and shook his head when she heard his words. She still used Mu Chenyan''s phone to let him know, ''Yin Jie never disliked you. And neither does Chenyan.''

    "No, Qian Yin only thought I was blind," said Zhai Kuijun. "And she was right."

    ''You shouldn''t take Yin Jie''s words to heart.'' She thought for a moment before typing, ''As for Chenyan, she is a little too protective towards people she cares about. She seems to hate tears. So, she gets agitated to see me cry.''

    Zhai Kuijun looked at Yue Yue and said, "You don''t have to tell me how Mu Chenyan is. I have an idea about how she is. After all, even if we weren''t close, I''ve known her since she was kid because of my father''s friendship with Uncle Yu." He took a pause and added, "Why don''t you talk about yourself? Was it fun ying this hide and seek thatsted for over two decades?"

    Yue Yue smiled bitterly, ''It wasn''t fun. I wasn''t doing it for fun.''

    "Then why did you do it? Did you not think how worried I''d be?"

    ''Actually, I was hoping that you''d think that I''m dead,'' she could only be honest with him about this. ''The intention of leaving wasn''t to hide. It was to disappear for good.'' Yes, her original intention was to disappear. That''s why she didn''t want to live. But Hyson changed things for her. She could only keep going. But the purpose didn''t change. She still wanted to disappear for good so she went so far away that no one could find her.

    "What?" he couldn''t believe she just said that.

    ''That''s true.'' Yue Yue thought about her situation back then with a dull gaze. ''You really shouldn''t have wasted so much time looking for me. I left because I wanted to. It had nothing to do with anyone.''

    Zhai Kuijun was so frustrated to hear that from her. What did she mean by that? She was still not willing to speak about what she went through?

    "Yue! How could you not change even after all these years?" he asked. "Don''t you feel that it''s unfair? You went through so much but you were never willing to tell me anything. And even now, you are telling me it had nothing to do with anyone? And a person like you wanted to leave on her own ord?"

    Wronged? Yue Yue thought to herself. Was she wronged? Well, yes. She did feel wronged for a while. But she was a person who grew up feeling wronged. And maybe that''s why she grew too numb to everything. The only thing that hurt was her father''s words. She only had her expectation associated with him but even he didn''t believe in her. That really broke her and that''s when she really felt wronged.

    But so what? So what if she felt wronged orined? She never got anything afterining. Even if she did, her sister will make her pay twice the price for that.

    "Can you please tell me what happened back then? Why did you have to leave your own home?" he asked. "And why didn''t you just wait for me toe back?" He took a pause and added, "You can tell me now. Even if it''s toote, I''ll still do everything to fight for you."

    ''You''re not supposed to fight my battles for me.''

    Zhai Kuijun was taken aback by her response. Oh, he was wrong. She did change. She no longer wanted to depend on people to fight for herself. But was she willing to fight for herself?

    "Then will you fight for yourself?" he asked.

    Yue Yue shook her head, ''I have nothing to fight for. I always loved peace and quiet. I''d rather distance myself from fights.'' It was ironic how a person who loved peace and quiet actually befriended a violent person like Mu Chenyan. Then she looked up at him, ''I''m no longer part of the Yue n. I really have nothing to fight for. Brother Kuijun, I left home because I had to. But I don''t regret it. In fact, I''m very happy in my life. If not for that experience, I wouldn''t be the person I am today. I wouldn''t have met Chenyan. And I wouldn''t have learned how exciting life can be.''

    She smiled to herself as she continued to type, ''I learned that some rtionships are bigger than blood. Sometimes, rtionships are built on sincerity. And these rtionships can surprise you. Today, I can proudly tell you that I, Yue Yue have people who don''t only love her but are also willing to protect her. And they don''t even expect anything in return. I have a home now, Brother Kuijun. A home where I am really needed.''

    The best thing about this family was that they always made her feel like she was worth it. No matter what, she was always worth the effort.

    They didn''t need anything from her. After all, she was a single mother but they were willing to give whatever they had. But they never crushed her self-esteem and always did whatever they could to make sure that she knew her worth. She learned how to love herself in this family.

    It was strange, even Xiang Hulin whom she just met days ago was willing to protect her just because Mu Chenyan said Yue Yue is family. She never realized how heavy this single word was. Family. It sounded very simple but the Xiang family took it way too seriously.

    So, seriously that in the beginning she couldn''t even understand their thought process. Just how could someone attach so much importance to just family? And how was someone willing to add a person who wasn''t even rted by blood to the family?

    She was always questioned in the Yue n because her mother didn''t have a strong backing. Even her blood was questioned. That made her feel inferior to her sister even if she never showed it. But now, she knew that none of that really mattered.

 Chapter 799 Scared Of The Truth

    Chapter 799 Scared Of The TruthˇˇˇˇSome people didn''t care what her surname was or what bloodline she had. Because that could never define her worth.

    Even someone like Raelle who didn''t understand feelings was someone who cared about family the most.

    This family made her realize the real meaning of home. And only then did she realize why she never felt like the Yue Manor was her home. She always felt like she wasn''t needed there. No one needed her there. She was like an invisible person in that house.

    There was no drama in the Xiang family. No one schemed against each other. They were all very straightforward. If they don''t like you, you''d really know they don''t like you because they weren''t two-faced people. They couldn''t hide their dislike. But likewise, they couldn''t hide their likes either. So, if they really cared about you, you''d know what you mean to each and every one of them.

    Her statement that she found a home was really unexpected to Zhai Kuijun but he could tell she was being honest.

    ''And if you want to know how have I been in all these years, then trust me, I have been very good. Not only did I have the freedom in my life, but I also didn''t have to walk on eggshells. I didn''t have to cater to someone''s mood and I didn''t have to look for anyone''s eptance.''

    Zhai Kuijun gave her a deep look and nodded his head, "I''m d you found a ce to call home."

    Because he knew how much she wanted a home.

    "And finding a family like Xiang''s is a bonus," he said half-jokingly. Who didn''t know that Xiang''s were extremely protective of their own people? Who had the guts to even stand against the Xiang family? It''s because the Xiang family never liked to y tricks that people didn''t want to offend them. But then again, no one from this family yed by the rules either.

    Yue Yue nodded in agreement, ''I know. I found the best family to call home.'' She was actually a little proud. Her son was really her biggest blessing. Not only did he give her the courage to stand on her own, but he also became the reason why she met the Xiang family.

    Sometimes, she even wondered how she got this fortunate. Even when the Xiang family hadn''t moved back to the country, she never felt alone. Whether it was Elder Xiang or Mu Chenyan, they never let her feel like she was all on her own.

    Zhai Kuijun didn''t think there was anything wrong with what she said. Although he was curious about how she ended up with the Xiang family, he was even more curious about something else.

    "You haven''t told me why you had to leave the Yue n?" he asked her.

    Yue Yue bit her bottom lip. That was a question she didn''t like answering. She never even gave the right answer to Mu Chenyan. It was like she never even wanted to repeat what happened that night. If possible, she wanted to forget about it all. Because her biggest fear was associated with that night.

    She was trying to contemte whether to tell him the truth ande clean? But she couldn''t bring herself to do so. She didn''t want him to think of herself differently. That was her biggest fear that he''d be disgusted and just like Yue Lan, he''d also think that she was a scheming and a hateful person.

    No, she couldn''t tell him the truth.

    ''I did a mistake.''

    "What kind of mistake?" he frowned.

    ''I fell in love with the wrong guy.'' Well, that was the truth for sure. ''And my family couldn''t ept that love. In the end, I had to leave.''

    Zhai Kuijun understood her enough to know that she was telling the truth. And that was the reason, Yue Yue didn''t try to make excuses. She knew he''d be able to tell if she was lying or not. So, she decided to keep her words vague.

    "Who was he?" he inquired. He was genuinely curious what kind of a guy was so uneptable to the Yue n that they threw their own daughter out of the house? "And was it enough to throw you out of the family?"

    Yue Yue shook her head, ''It wasn''t enough. It''s just that as an unmarried woman, I lost my chastity and along with it, I lost the face of the whole Yue n. How could they ept a scourge like me?''

    Zhai Kuijun already knew that the Yue n was pedantic even now. More so, they were back then. But he still wasn''t able to understand the whole situation. It''s not like it was a feudal society or something. How could they refuse to ept their own daughter just because she lost her so-called chastity?

    "Where did you go?" he asked another question because he could tell she wasn''t telling him the whole truth. He didn''t doubt her words but he knew she wasn''t telling the whole truth.

    ''I went to live in a faraway and a little-known vige. It was remote andpletely cut off from society. It was a good ce to hide.''

    She even smiled about that because she really thought it was a good ce to hide. And if she wasn''t worried about her son''s future, she''d have stayed in that vige for good. It was a beautiful vige with mostly simple people. And she had a very simple life in between those simple people. But it was fulfilling to live in such a peaceful and serene ce.

    From those words, it could be seen how much she didn''t want to be found.

    "Then you really know how to hide," hemented.

    Yue Yue smiled at him, ''I also didn''t know I had this talent.'' Of course, she was joking with him about something so serious. And it wasn''t like her at all. But then again, a lot of things weren''t like before anymore. She wasn''t someone who was afraid to speak out her thoughts.

    The only thing that scared her was the truth of Hyson''s birth.

 Chapter 800 Only One Crazy Person

    Chapter 800 Only One Crazy PersonˇˇˇˇEven though Mu Chenyan stepped out of the way earlier. She was still feeling restless and Xiang Hulin sat beside her to keep an eye on her. He knew her restless soul will think of moving and he was not wrong either.

    "Ge, I think I should go and see if he is bullying our Little Your."

    Xiang Hulin had to hold her back and pulled her back to the couch. "Stop being so nosy."

    "How can this be considered being nosy?" She asked her brother in displeasure. "I''m clearly just worried about my Little Yue." She sounded so righteous that Xiang Hulin ended up rolling his eyes at this sister of his.

    Only his ghost will believe she was worried about Yue Yue. Clearly, she wanted to mess with Zhai Kuijun to show her might. But she was forgetting that she already warned Zhai Kuijun and he didn''t think Zhai Kuijun was stupid enough to make a mistake.

    Besides, he really didn''t think Zhai Kuijun could hurt Yue Yue. If there was someone who genuinely cares about Yue Yue from her past it was Zhai Kuijun.

    "I know," he told her. "But what can you do at this point? You have done enough by keeping her hidden for so long. Even your own brother didn''t find a single clue about her whereabouts all thanks to you."

    Mu Chenyanughed at that proudly, "I''m just that awesome," she said. "It''s just that I''m low-key. How can anyone find people I want to hide? No one. You should already know that, Ge."

    "Yes, I should stop underestimating my sister''s capabilities," said Xiang Hulin.

    "You should." She was pleased with herself for a moment before she sighed again. "Ge..."

    "Stop it!" Said Xiang Hulin. "You''re really acting like Yue Yue is your love interest and you''re scared her first love will snatch her from you. Will you stop being so possessive?"

    "How is this being possessive?" She asked him.

    "Don''t you have faith in your best friend?" Asked Xiang Hulin. "Don''t you think you''ve done enough already? It''s not your job to fight her battles for her. She seems very capable of doing it herself. I heard she had a soft personality but I know you Chenchen. Being with you, she couldn''t possibly be the same white rabbit she once was. No matter how you have been protecting her, you must have taught her how to bite if the time asked for it. Am I right? Or am I right?"

    Mu Chenyan gave her brother a deep nce and smiled softly. In just two days, he figured out Yue Yue and here she was fretting over whether her best friend would be okay confronting her past. Maybe she should really have more faith in her best friend.

    Maybe she got used to protecting the delicate little flower of their family too much so she forgot that she was the one who trained that little white flower how to use her thorns.

    "Ge, you''re still very perceptive," shemented.

    "It''s a talent that I inherited in my genes," said Xiang Hulin.

    Mu Chenyan suddenlyughed out when she heard that. "That''s exactly what Elle said once. Tsk. How can she still have your temperament when she didn''t even grew up with you?"

    "Maybe it''s the magical connection of family?"

    Mu Chenyan shrugged her shoulders at that because she also couldn''t figure it out. To say every one of the Xiang family''s members were perceptive would be wrong but at the same time, right. It was reallyplicated to exin.

    "Let Yue Yue take charge of her own life," said Xiang Hulin. "Don''t hide her in your shadows. She deserves to shine. And I believe she can shine brightly."

    Mu Chenyan set down her heart and nodded her head in agreement. That was indeed true. She couldn''t say anything about it.

    "But do you think she''ll tell Zhai Kuijun the truth?" Asked Xiang Hulin.

    "What do you think?" Retorted Mu Chenyan.

    "I don''t think she will," he told his thoughts to her honestly. He didn''t have anything to hide from her anyway so it was better to let her know what he thought about this situation. "From my understanding, Yue Yue hadn''t been running from her past. She was only running from that one truth and she''ll keep hiding it for as long as she can. Although I''m not sure what that truth is, but it definitely scares her a lot."

    "You really don''t know what that truth is?" Asked Mu Chenyan. "You want me to believe that? But I really can''t."

    Xiang Hulin chuckled at her. "I only know a part of it. I could only figure that out. But the rest is a mystery to me as well." He took a pause and asked, "What do you know? No matter how we tried to find out what happened that night, we found nothing. In fact, people who knew about what happened that night are either dead or missing. It''s like someone deliberately erased everything rted to that incident."

    Mu Chenyan looked at him in shock, "What did you say? People died?"

    "Yes," Xiang Hulin nodded his head in response. "The servants in the Yue Manor left one by one. And then they were gone. So, it''s hard to find any clue."

    "That''s so suspicious," said Mu Chenyan. "Someone can even go so far to murder just to keep them quiet?" She frowned, "It seems I have to ask Yue what really happened?" She always refrained from asking Yue about what really happened back then.

    Everyone could piece together the fact that Hyson was Zhai Kuijun''s son but how did it happen? No one could figure that out. Because looking at Zhai Kuijun, anyone could tell that he was really clueless regarding this matter.

    "But why go so far just for this secret?" asked Mu Chenyan in confusion.

    Xiang Hulin shrugged, "Some people are just that crazy. And Ms. Yue Lan clearly is that crazy person."

    Mu Chenyan sneered, "There is only one crazy person around here and that''s me. As for that Yue Lan, I never intended to find her but if she wants topete with me, I''ll let her see who can be crazier."

    ''Is that something topete about?'' Xiang Hulin wanted to ask but kept himself quiet. He knew her temperament.

 Chapter 801 Candidates

    Chapter 801 CandidatesˇˇˇˇOn the other hand, in the hospital, Hyson was pacing in front of Raelle''s bed with aplicated look in his eyes. He suddenly stopped and faced Raelle, "Ellie..."

    "Don''t continue," said Raelle. "I already know."

    Hyson''s eyes shed and he smiled, "Indeed. Our brain is always in sync. You must have the same thought as me."

    "This is bizarre,"mented Raelle.

    "Exactly!" That was the thought in Hyson''s mind as well.

    He just brought juice for Raelle. How did the situation change so abruptly?

    "I think I just triggered her memory," said Hyson.

    "I thought so too," responded Raelle. "The situation looked quite simr to when we both were in the ident. So, that might be the trigger for her lost memories."

    Hyson tsked at that andmented, "If I knew this would happen, I''d have enacted the whole scene of the ident to help her recover her memory." But he suddenly perked up, "It''s still okay. I still deserve the credit. Hahaha! I''m so cool! Without doing anything, I solved everything."

    "How high are you?" asked Raelle.

    "I''m not high," he replied.

    "Yes, you are," was Raelle''s response. "You''re high on narcissism right now."

    Hyson narrowed his eyes at her, "Isn''t it something I learned from you?"

    "You can''t always ask me to carry this pot for you," said Raelle. "You were clearly narcissistic enough when you met me."

    Shui Xian came back and sat down beside Raelle.

    "So, how is it?" asked Hyson.

    "What?" questioned Shui Xian in confusion.

    "How is Tang Hebe?" asked Hyson.

    Shui Xian''s brows knitted up, "How would I know that?"

    "Didn''t you go to inquire about her?"

    "No," replied Shui Xian. "I went to do something else. Why would I go to inquire about Tang Hebe?"

    "She fainted in front of us," reminded Hyson.

    "So?"

    "Xian Ge, you need to have some humanity!"

    "Isn''t it enough that I asked the doctors to take care of her well?" responded Shui Xian. "Now, I have to wait on her as well? Sorry, I don''t have that much patience for strangers. I use all my patience on you."

    Hyson gaped at him in disbelief, "What did you just say? You need patience to deal with me? Am I that unbearable?"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "You''re not unbearable. But you clearly are a thief whoes to steal my wife''s time. Don''t I need patience for that? You should be d that I have this patience."

    Hyson looked at Raelle, "What did you do to my sweet Xian Ge?"

    "I tried to taste your sweet Xian Ge but didn''t like the sweet taste. So, I added a little bit of my poisonousness to him."

    Hyson''s lips twitched when he heard that from Raelle. He was only joking when he asked that question but he forgot who was the one being questioned. How could Raelle Xiang not have an answer?

    Even Shui Xian chuckled at the side. He stroked Raelle''s head gently but stayed silent.

    "Xian Ge, you seriously didn''t ask about Tang Hebe?" asked Hyson again.

    "No," replied Shui Xian. "But someone did report that she is still unconscious. She hasn''t woken but the doctors have checked up on her condition. Everything is normal. So, stop worrying about her."

    "Do I look that nice to you?" asked Hyson. "I''m not worried."

    "No, he is just eager to see some drama," said Raelle.

    "What drama? I just want to know if she recovered her memories or not." Hyson sounded very righteous as he spoke.

    Raelle gave him a look but didn''t say anything.

    "You should go home now, instead of waiting for Tang Hebe to wake up. I''ll inform you once she wakes up," said Raelle. "Don''t you particrly dislike hospitals? Now, you''re finding excuses toe every day."

    Hyson tsked at her, "How can you not even understand this much? I usually dislike hospitals but now, you''re staying at the hospital. I can''t possibly stoping to see you just because I dislike hospitals. Just like youe to see me even if you have to push back your favorite thing; work."

    "You''ve been here for four hours," reminded Raelle. "You even had lunch with us. But if you stayed any longer, everyone will be worried at home."

    Hyson also agreed with that statement. "Fine, I''m going back then."

    He stood up to leave but suddenly recalled something and told her, "Oh, I almost it. Your siblings want toe to visit you. I stopped them though. Do you want me to let theme?"

    Raelle looked at him and said, "No. I''ll be going back home in a few days. There is no need for so many people toe to me every day."

    "Okay," replied Hyson. "By the way, I didn''t tell you. I''m looking for a blind date for your brother. Do you have a candidate?"

    Raelle stared at him, "when did you open the matchmaking bureau? Are you that leisurelytely? Then why don''t you go to mypany and help Cloe with work? It''ll hone your skills."

    Hyson''s face changed, "I don''t want to. Why should I go to work?" He pouted at her, "Besides, I''m doing it for the good of the family. There are too many single people in the family. It doesn''t look good."

    Shui Xian smiled, "You both have the same thinking."

    Hyson didn''t know what he was talking about but it didn''t stop him from saying proudly, "Of course, why else would I say we are soul mates?! I''m clearly telling the truth!" Then he asked Shui Xian, "Xian Ge, do you have a candidate in mind?"

    "No, I don''t," replied Shui Xian.

    "Why are you so unhelpful?" asked Hyson in displeasure. "Can''t you help me a little?"

    "But I really don''t have any candidate," said Shui Xian. "Even my own wife was chosen by my father. What are you expecting from me?"

    "What a shame," said Hyson and tsked at that. "And you''re even more unhelpful than your husband in this situation." That was directed at Raelle. And she certainly didn''t care that she was being looked down upon by him. She had no interest in matchmaking.

 Chapter 802 Right Here With You

    Chapter 802 Right Here With YouˇˇˇˇBut just because Raelle wasn''t interested in matchmaking didn''t mean Hyson wasn''t as well. He felt like he needed to do something fulfilling and what could be better than throwing people on blind dates?

    "Bye-bye!" Hyson waved with both hands at them. "Since you''re no help, I''m gonna go and find someone who can help."

    "Good luck to you," said Shui Xian.

    "Scram already!" was what Raelle said making him stick out his tongue at her before leaving.

    "This child really knows how to keep himself busy,"mented Shui Xian.

    "Let him be," said Raelle. "He seems very happy to y the role of a matchmaker."

    "As long as he is happy," was Shui Xian''s response. He also got influenced by the people of the Xiang family and really thought that even if Hyson wasted his time, it was alright as long as he was happy. But then again, who wouldn''t want to see Prince Fai happy? He was a bundle of sunshine, so everyone wished to see him smiling all the time brightly.

    "Did your sister go back?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian shook his head, "No, it seems she is still in the city. I was worried that she''d harm herself so I asked someone to keep an eye on her. She didn''t do anything. In fact, she didn''t step out of the house since yesterday. I guess the truth she learned yesterday hit her very hard. I just hope she doesn''t distance herself from everything."

    "You can''t me her though," said Raelle. "Who knew that the person she called her savior was in fact the predator who almost ruined her? Anyone would be walloped. Especially someone like Amiah who has a prickly shell but is actually a little naive."

    Shui Xian looked at her, "You figured her out that easily?"

    "Was it hard?" asked Raelle. "Even if she acts like a b*tch, she doesn''t have the evilness of the real b*tches. She is just someone who can only talk crap but she can''t do anything. If she had a good judgment of people, she wouldn''t be where she is right now. Let''s take Hyson''s ident as an example. If she really had a good judgment of people, she''d have realized how scheming her assistant was. But she didn''t." She took a pause and added, "But she also has her plus points."

    "For instance?" asked Shui Xian curiously. He genuinely wanted to know what his sister''s good points were and how he had not been able to see any of them?

    "For instance, the people she considers her own, she will protect them even if she has to suffer herself. She is very clear about the people she likes and dislikes."

    "And?"

    Raelle stayed quiet before saying, "She is also good-looking."

    Shui Xian chuckled, "That''s it?"

    "I''ve only met her three times," she said. "How can I know everything about her so soon?"

    Shui Xian tilted his head as he looked into her eyes lovingly, "Then howe you even read my soul just within our few meetings?"

    "That''s because you''re the man I nned to spend my life with," she answered honestly. "Of course, I''d pay extra attention to figure you out. But my interest in your sister isn''t all that deep."

    Shui Xian smiled at how honestly she told him that. Okay, even he knew she was just interested in him.

    "But you should contact Sora Ke," suggested Raelle. "I heard she is her best friend of Amiah and thetter listens to her as well. During this time, it''s better for someone to stay with her."

    Shui Xian also agreed with what she said. He decided to contact Sora and ask her to check up on Amiah. As a brother, he definitely didn''t want his sister to be all alone in this situation. But he couldn''t do anything else since Amiah was the one who distanced herself from the family.

    "How do you think Tang Hebe will react if she recovered her memories after waking up?" questioned Raelle.

    Shui Xian touched his earlobe and replied, "Why are you so interested in that? Don''t talk about others."

    "Then who should I talk about?" she asked.

    "Me," replied Shui Xian. "You, me, and us. You can only talk about these three."

    "What is there to talk about us?" asked Raelle.

    "There is so much," he said. "Just think carefully."

    "What if I''m not in the mood of thinking?"

    Shui Xian pursed his lips before saying, "Then let''s forget it. Don''t think. Since you can''t think anything then just lie down and take a nap."

    "What? Just because I am in no mood of thinking, I should go to sleep? Don''t you think I slept enough already?"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "No. You''ve been through so much. The doctor said more sleep is good. Don''t you know that sleep is best for fast recovery? You need to give your body time to recover well."

    "You just want me to keep sleeping now," remarked Raelle. "But where am I supposed to find that much sleep? Sleep and I are not really good friends. We both don''t like each other that much."

    Shui Xian smiled at her, "No, sleep loves you. I think it''s you who has issues with sleep. After all, sleeping is also a kind of a waste of time and keeps you from reading more books, doing more work, exploring new things etc etc."

    Raelle fell into deep thought, "Is it really like that? Do you mean sleep is now scared of disturbing me?"

    Shui Xian shook his head at her and made her lie down saying, "Whether you can sleep or not, just lie down and rest. Don''t just sit all the time." As he was about to step away, she held his sleeve. He looked back at her and the way she pinched his sleeve which made his heart melt. "I''m not going anywhere. Just helping you with the nket."

    "Then how about youe up?"

    Shui Xian wasn''t surprised by her words. He already noticed it in the past two days. He was clingy and they knew it. But Raelle had been acting clingier along with him in the past two days. He could tell it was because of the ident and it made his heart hurt.

    Keeping a smile on his face, he replied, "Sure. I''m right here with you."

 Chapter 803 How Embarrassing

    Chapter 803 How EmbarrassingˇˇˇˇMeanwhile, in the hospital''s another private ward...

    Even in her unconscious state, Tang Hebe''s brows were furrowed as if she was struggling with something. The beads of perspiration trickled down her face. Her hands clutched the sheets and suddenly, her eyes opened.

    She panted heavily, looking at the white ceiling of the hospital. Her brain was disoriented for a while and she felt ufortable because of the sweat. She didn''t move for a while, just kept staring at the white ceiling in a daze.

    Her head wasn''t hurting as badly as it did earlier but there was still a faint pain. Thankfully, it was bearable so she didn''t cry out in pain once again.

    She turned her head to look at the digital wall clock. Looking at the time on the wall, she realized that she had been unconscious for 8 hours. So, right now, it was already nighttime.

    "You''re awake!"

    Tang Hebe looked at the Nanny she hired for her son and blinked at her in response.

    "Let me call the doctor," said the nanny as she was about to go out.

    "Sister Mi," called out Tang Hebe.

    Nanny Mi stopped in her steps and looked back at her. Her eyes turned red when she saw her again. "Ms. Tang, you remember me now?"

    Tang Hebe felt stunned to see her red eyes but she still nodded. "Can you help me up?"

    "Sure," said nanny Mi and ran up to her side. She helped her up and put two pillows behind her to support her back and make her feelfortable. "What else do you need? Do you want to drink some water?"

    Tang Hebe shook her head but winced at how her head hurt because of moving so carelessly.

    Nanny Mi noticed her expression and got worried, "Ms. you just woke up. Don''t move your head. Your injury wasn''t light."

    "I don''t want water," said Tang Hebe as she offered the nanny aforting smile. "But I want to wash up. I''m sweating and it''s very ufortable."

    Nanny Mi looked conflicted and said, "How about I wipe your body for you? Let''s not wash up. You have a few small injuries on your body and it''s not good to get them wet. What if the wound inmed? We can''t take the risk. I''ll wipe your body carefully."

    Although Tang Hebe really wanted to take a shower, she still relented under the caring eyes of the nanny. She didn''t even know why it was like that. But seeing the genuine care and worry in those eyes, Tang Hebe couldn''t bring herself to go against nanny Mi''s wishes.

    "Then, sorry to trouble you," said Tang Hebe.

    "There is no trouble," said nanny Mi happily and went to get a clean towel and warm water.

    Tang Hebe looked towards the window and could see the moonlight gently trickling in. Suddenly, whatever happened while she had amnesia shed before her eyes and her expressions grew ugly with each passing minute.

    She suddenly felt like smashing her head against the wall but she couldn''t do it since her head already hurt so much. But she was so mad at herself right now. And so embarrassed? How was she supposed to face everyone again?

    As she recalled how she called Shui Xian, she felt like opening a crack into the ground and just burying herself in. Even she cringed and felt disgusted by herself. How could she me Shui Xian for his reaction?

    "Fuck!" she cursed out. "Bebe, when did you be so desperate?"

    She couldn''t believe she actually ran to Shui Xian this very morning to look for answers? What was she even thinking? Who does that?

    She suddenly felt like Shui Xian went very easy on her by just attacking with his words but even with words, he was being very gentlemanly. If she was in his ce, she''d have pped herself. Because she really deserved a beating!

    It took her so many years to leave behind that weak Tang Hebe who always evoked people''s pity. But she didn''t know that she''d one day be that same person she ran from all over again. What kind of punishment was that?

    Tang Hebe had many regrets in her life. One of those regrets was that she couldn''t be a mother. She knew that Shui Xian didn''t care about the child at all but she was desperate for one. Even when she tried to act nonchnt, she knew deep down how much it mattered to her. In fact, she knew that Shui Xian also wanted a child. It''s just that he never wanted to hurt her so he never spoke about it.

    So, at the time of her ident, she was genuinely happy that she saved Raelle by pushing her. She knew how much she mattered to Shui Xian and that''s why she really didn''t mind getting hurt. But when she saw Raelle''s gown stained in blood, her heart almost stopped. Even if she had never been pregnant, she was no idiot. She could tell what was happening that snapped something in her mind.

    She knew she was Shui Xian''s sinner.

    The only person she loved in her life was Shui Xian but he was also someone whom she hurt the most as well. It was like she became an even bigger sinner of his when she realized that by pushing Raelle, she seemed to have killed an innocent life growing inside of her. She couldn''t face that truth. No, she didn''t want to face it at all.

    Perhaps, that''s why she hid by forgetting everything.

    But it didn''t really help. It only made all her insecurities resurface and made her realize just how much she was still affected by her own past.

    She closed her eyes as she groaned.

    "Are you okay, Ms.? You really don''t want me to call the doctor?"

    Tang Hebe opened her eyes when she heard nanny Mi''s voice and looked at her. "No, I''m fine. Don''t worry about me." What else could she say? Her smile was uglier than crying right now. How embarrassing!

 Chapter 804 Heartless Xian

    Chapter 804 Heartless Xianˇˇˇˇ"Are you really okay?" asked the nanny to Tang Hebe.

    Tang Hebe was having another headache, and this had nothing to do with her injury. It was all because of herself. She never thought one day she''d be in such a situation.

    "Stop worrying about me, Sister Mi," said Tang Hebe.

    She was actually recalling Shui Xian''s words and actually felt relieved to know that he didn''t me her for Raelle''s miscarriage. Instead, it seemed he was thankful to her that she saved Raelle''s life. Although she wanted to call Shui Xian heartless, even she knew what he was like. Once he loved someone, he loved that person with his whole self.

    She had been that person once upon a time. And that''s why she was even more clear about who he was. And she was also clear about how much she hurt him. And how painful it must have been for him.

    He had always been a very simple person. If he loved you, he''ll put you at the top of his heart. No one can match your status in his heart. So, even if she was his ex-wife and the person he once loved, she couldn''tpete with Raelle. Shui Xian always made a clear line between people.

    Now that she was his past, he''d keep her just as that past.

    He''d never let this past mess up with his present. The present he seemed to cherish a lot.

    She could only sigh at her own thoughts.

    "Ms. Tang, would you like to inform your family about this ident?" asked the nanny once she was done helping Tang Hebe with wiping her body.

    "What family?" retorted Tang Hebe. "I''ve long left the Tang family. They have nothing to do with my life and death. I told you before that even if I die, you''re not supposed to tell anyone from the Tang family. You can call my cousin but no one else." Suddenly recalling something, she asked, "You didn''t tell my cousin about my ident, did you?"

    "No," replied the nanny. "I was nning on waiting for a few days before deciding whether to call her or not."

    "Don''t call," said Tang Hebe. "She is on her honeymoon. I don''t want her to rush back into this situation. Besides, it''s not like I died."

    "But you scared me," told nanny Mi. She was genuinely very worried when she learned about Tang Hebe''s ident.

    "Rx," said Tang Hebe. "It was just temporary memory loss. It was a little frustrating but it has no effect on my health. I''m still well and good." Seeing the nanny nodding her head, she was satisfied. "What about my baby? Where is he?"

    "Young Master is sleeping," informed the nanny while pointing towards the couch in the ward.

    Tang Hebe couldn''t see her baby from where she was, so she wanted to get up and rush to him. The nanny stopped her and said, "Ms. I''ll bring the Young Master to you."

    Tang Hebe thought about it before she nodded, "Okay. But be careful. Don''t startle him. Let him sleep."

    "Yes," the nanny smiled at Tang Hebe''s worried expression. She was reassured that Tang Hebe was fine now and had her memories back. After all, the only time she looked this concerned was when it involved her son.

    The nanny gently hugged the small boy into her arms and brought him to Tang Hebe''s bed. Because she was staying in the VIP ward, the bed was very big. An adult could lie downfortably with Tang Hebe much less a small child.

    As soon as the little child was put on the bed, he looked ufortable and looked like he was gonna wake up. Tang Hebe instantly put her hand on his back and lovingly patted him back to sleep. As if he could recognize the touch in his sleep, he scooted over to that familiar warmth and buried himself into Tang Hebe''s body as he clutched her clothes tightly into his small hand.

    Tang Hebe felt her heart-melting and her eyes stung. She leaned down to kiss his head and whispered, "Baby, Mom missed you so much."

    She really did. The most painful thing about her memory loss was that she couldn''t even recognize her own son and now that she thought about it, it really hurt her. How could she forget her darling? Remembering how he looked at her when she didn''t recognize him, broke her heart.

    "Ms. Tang," the nanny called out Tang Hebe cautiously.

    "Hmm?"

    "Is that Mr. Shui Xian really Young Master''s father?" asked the nanny.

    Tang Hebe looked up at her and said, "If he was, he''d be here. He isn''t an irresponsible person who would leave his own child behind because of his personal differences. Just know that Shui Xian has nothing to do with Justin. Don''t just randomly make guesses, it can affect his marriage and I don''t want that."

    Even if she said that she actually believed that it was difficult to affect Shui Xian''s rtionship with Raelle considering how that girl was a very rational person and was definitely not driven by her emotions.

    All of a sudden, she was mad at herself again. How was she supposed to get close to Raelle now that Raelle already figured out how she hated her? Tang Hebe felt like pulling her hair. Her amnesiac self couldn''t even hide her emotions. Not like her non-amnesiac self could do a better job at it.

    But at least her non-amnesiac self didn''t hate Raelle.

    In the end, she had to say Shui Xian was right. She was the one who made Raelle an invisible love rival in their rtionship while Raelle was even oblivious to the existence of her and Shui Xian as well. And Shui Xian was also right when he said that they weren''t meant to be.

    They fought with everyone for their love but in the end, they couldn''t protect that love. Maybe, fate was never in their favor and since they kept challenging fate, things kept going wrong.

 Chapter 805 Ever-So-Mischievous

    Chapter 805 Ever-So-MischievousˇˇˇˇHyson was on his way back home when he ran into Lin Zhen and asked the driver to stop the car. He alighted from the car and told the driver, "Uncle, you can go back home. I''ll just walk backter."

    The driver didn''t persuade him considering how they were already in the residential area and the house wasn''t that far from here. He gave a nod in response and drove away.

    "Zhen Ge!" Hyson shouted to get Lin Zhen''s attention who was ying with his dog right now.

    Lin Zhen looked up and frowned at Hyson, "Fai? What are you doing here?"

    "Why can''t I be here? I live around here," reminded Hyson.

    "No, I meant to say, weren''t you shooting at another location?" asked Lin Zhen.

    "Ah! About that... I just came back two days ago," answered Hyson.

    Lin Zhen recalled something and asked, "So, that disheveled person on the airport that was trending was really you?"

    Hyson scratched the tip of his nose andughed awkwardly, "Yeah. That was me."

    Lin Zhen was even more surprised when Hyson said that. He knew that no matter how much Hyson was in a hurry, he''d always look handsome when going out. After all, all of them were stars and even if they were low-key or down-to-earth, they were still influenced by the entertainment industry and loved to appear in their best version before people.

    "Did something happen?" he asked Hyson straightforwardly. "It''s not like you to not take any precautions before traveling or stepping out of the house. You have always been the best at disguise. And that''s why you''ve always been able to avoid paparazzi. What happened this time?"

    "I was indeed in a rush," said Hyson. "My best friend is in the hospital." Hyson didn''t hide it from Lin Zhen. First, his group mates already knew Raelle, and second, he trusted all his members.

    "You mean Raelle?" asked Lin Zhen in shock.

    Hyson nodded in reply.

    Lin Zhen was taken aback, "How? What happened? Is she okay? Why didn''t you tell any of us? No wonder I haven''t seen them on morning walks these days." He pulled out his phone saying, "I''ll tell the others. Which hospital is it? We''ll visit her."

    Hyson stopped him, "Zhen Ge, stop it. Keep calm. I know you love to take care of everyone but you need to chill right now. Ellie doesn''t like people visiting her at the hospital. Once she is discharged, I''ll tell you and you cane to see her then."

    Lin Zhen hesitated but still agreed with him. "Then you better tell us. Okay?"

    "I will," replied Hyson.

    "Don''t always treat us as outsiders," said Lin Zhen.

    "When did I?" retorted Hyson innocently. "Even my mothers don''t treat you all as outsiders anymore and they only met you a couple of times. I spent years with you, I definitely don''t think of you as an outsider. Or else, I wouldn''t call you Ge. You know not everyone can make me call them Ge. It''s an honor. Cherish it!"

    Lin Zhen chuckled at this dork of their group and shook his head.

    While he was chatting with Hyson, his dog suddenly ran away surprising Lin Zhen. "Coco!"

    Hyson also looked towards where the dog ran and raised his eyes when he realized to whom the dog ran. The person over there squatted down and happily weed the dog who was running towards her.

    "Oh, who is this handsome baby?"

    Hyson''s lips twitched when he heard that from Xiang Wai. Yes, that person was indeed Xiang Wai. It was her first time meeting Coco but the dog definitely liked her even from afar and even left his owner behind.

    "Zhen Ge, your Coco is a traitor," Hyson whispered to Lin Zhen. "Coco forgets you around Xian Ge and now even a stranger is better than you."

    Lin Zhen was also feeling sad about that. His Coco was always closest to him then what happened now? He hardly managed to deal with his jealousy for Shui Xian and here came another thief trying to steal his Coco. This was so unfair that he wanted to do something!

    Coco didn''t care about his owners'' thoughts and continued to lick, hug, and y with Xiang Wai happily making thetter chuckle. "Oh, you''re such a good boy! How are you such a good boy?"

    "Oh, so you''re a dog person," said Hyson, and Xiang Wai finally noticed him. Since they weren''t far from home, she didn''t find it weird that she ran into him. "No wonder, you fell in love with Jun Ge."

    Xiang Wai''s lips twitched when she heard him say that. "What does this have to do with Yanjun?"

    "Why should I tell you?" he retorted.

    "Did you just call Yanjun a dog?" she asked.

    "Even if I did, that really had nothing to do with you," was Hyson''s response.

    "You know each other?" asked Lin Zhen.

    Hyson nodded and said, "Sadly, we do."

    Xiang Wai gaped at him, "Sadly? Are you that sad about knowing me?"

    "I am," replied Hyson. "But don''t worry, Major. I''ll get over it. My sadness doesn''tst that long."

    Lin Zhen was really amused by Hyson''s words. Not surprised at all. But he was indeed surprised to know that woman standing before him was actually a Major. That made a look of appreciation appear on his face.

    "My Coco seems to have taken an instant liking to you,"mented Lin Zhen.

    "It''s called love at first sight,"mented Hyson.

    "Fai!"

    "Yes, Zhen Ge?"

    "Behave yourself."

    "Okay," Hyson pursed his lips but didn''t say anything.

    Xiang Wai was actually surprised to see that Hyson seemed to respect this man very much. If not, he wouldn''t be so easy to talk to. But even if she was surprised she didn''t show it on her face. But she was a little curious about Lin Zhen. She wanted to know who he was to Hyson and why this ever-so-mischievous Hyson was acting well-behaved around him?

 Chapter 806 Good For You

    Chapter 806 Good For Youˇˇˇˇ"So, this cute guy is called Coco," Xiang Wai held the face of the dog in her hands as she continued to talk. It could be seen that she was experienced in dealing with pets. And the fact that she genuinely liked Coco couldn''t be hidden. She looked at Lin Zhen andmented, "Your Coco is a very good dog."

    Lin Zhen felt a little proud when he heard herplimenting Coco. So, he smiled as he rubbed Coco''s head. But Coco was more interested in Xiang Wai who gave him afortable feeling than his own owner whom he saw every single day.

    It was staying true to the phrase, ''Loving the new and despising the old.''

    Lin Zhen felt like his heart was broken by his lovely Coco. How much did he love Coco and now he was being despised like this?

    Hyson really wanted to stay quiet but he just couldn''t stop himself from speaking after seeing this scene. "Zhen Ge, it''s just a dog. You''re acting like your girlfriend cheated on you."

    "FAI!"

    Hyson stepped back and raised his hands in surrender, "I''m not cursing you."

    "There is no point in saying that," said Lin Zhen. "I''m already cursed."

    "Huh?" Hyson''s curiosity piqued. Usually, he wouldn''t be nosy about his group mates'' personal lives unless they wanted to share things with him. He won''t take the initiative to inquire about such things. But now he wanted to confirm something, "Zhen Ge, your girlfriend already cheated on you?"

    Lin Zhen looked at Hyson and sighed, "It has happened. And not just once."

    Hyson''s mouth opened wide in disbelief. This was really a shocker to him. To him, Lin Zhen was a very mature and good-tempered guy. He came from a good family. He was good-looking, talented, very caring, and dependable. He was the pir of their group and that''s why they all chose him as their leader and never regretted it in all these years.

    Lin Zhen did his best to look out for all the members of their group. There was a reason why Hyson respected him and listened to him. And it wasn''t easy for anyone to get Hyson''s respect and admiration. So, it could be seen how nice of a person Lin Zhen was.

    And that''s why it was so unbelievable to Hyson that someone actually cheated on Lin Zhen. And not just once as well. Hyson suddenly didn''t know how to react. He went too far with his joke. So, he didn''t take a minute to ept his mistake.

    "Sorry, Zhen Ge," said Hyson. "I shouldn''t have said that."

    Lin Zhen chuckled when he noticed how guilty Hyson looked and ruffled his hair, "Silly! Who said I''m upset? Besides, it didn''t even hurt as much when my partners cheated on me as it hurts when my own dog loves someone else more than me. I''m still processing the unhealthy attachment my Coco has with Mr. Shui."

    "I suddenly feel very bad for you," said Hyson.

    Xiang Wai didn''t mean to hear but she ended up hearing everything. She stood up and faced Lin Zhen, "I don''t n on stealing your Coco. It''s just that dogs had always been very close to me. Even in my Base when a new doges and acts unruly, someone would call me for help. Coco is a lot milder than those military dogs. And a lot cuter as well."

    "Don''t worry about it," said Lin Zhen. "I can''t possibly stop Coco from liking other people."

    "Yes, you can''t," added Hyson. "That''d make you a very possessive man. Don''t be that man! It''s not a good trait to have."

    Lin Zhen gave him a look, "You''re very possessive as well."

    Hyson cleared his throat, "Yeah. But I know my limits."

    "Do you now?" was Lin Zhen''s response. He shook his head when Hyson didn''t speak and said, "How long are you staying?"

    "At least until Ellie is not discharged," answered Hyson.

    Lin Zhen nodded his head, "Then I''ll contact you in a couple of days. Let''s get together with everyone and have dinner?"

    "Sure," replied Hyson.

    Lin Zhen nodded his head. "Coco, let''s go home now."

    Coco looked unwilling as she stared at Xiang Wai with his clear eyes but in the end, the love for his owner won over everything, and barked at Xiang Wai before walking back to Lin Zhen.

    "Bye to you too!" Xiang Wai happily waved at Coco. Once Lin Zhen and Coco were gone, she noticed Hyson looking at her and said, "What? Dogs love me, okay?"

    Hyson nodded his head, "Good for you."

    "What do you mean by that?"

    "What? I said good for you," Hyson was confused why she was mad. Did he say something wrong here?

    "I heard it like you said, good for you at least dogs likes you," said Xiang Wai.

    Hysonughed at her and poked her head saying, "Major, that''s in your head. Not mine. I say what I have on my mind. I''m not someone who likes to say something and mean something else. If I was that kind of a person, Ellie would have never been my best friend. So, you better get this straight. When I said, good for you. That was my only thought. Nothing else. Stop hurting yourself with your own thoughts, it''s not healthy." He took a pause and added, "In fact, most of our problems are created by our own self. By overthinking. So, you should really get rid of this habit."

    Xiang Wai frowned at him and asked again, "You really didn''t mean it?"

    "I didn''t," answered Hyson as he started walking towards the house.

    Xiang Wai followed him and asked, "Then why do you keep annoying me?"

    "Because you''re the easiest person to tick off in the Xiang family," answered Hyson very honestly. Xiang Wai''s expressions changed but Hyson didn''t care as he continued, "I''ve been trying to annoy Ellie for years but it''s almost impossible to get a reaction from her. You on the other hand are very easy."

 Chapter 807 Talking To A Ghost

    Chapter 807 Talking To A GhostˇˇˇˇXiang Wai didn''t know how to react or deny his words right now. He seemed to be right. He really managed to tick her off like no other person. She wasn''t always that easily provoked but it seemed she was always on the verge of exploding with Hyson in the picture.

    "I''m not always like this," she said after a long silence. "It''s just that whenever you''re involved, I get impulsive."

    "Oh, is that so?" Hyson turned his head to look at her. "I never knew I had that talent."

    "Would you get rid of that smile on your face?"

    "No," he replied. "I''m not smiling for you. I like to smile so I do it. It''s my happiness, I''d never let anyone else decide what happiness is supposed to look like." Xiang Wai didn''t say anything but Hyson spoke up again, "Actually, I''m not like you. You need reasons for a smile, I don''t. You have people who make you smile, I''m the person who makes others smile. So, you and I are not the same, Major. After all, I''m a lot smarter and cuter than you."

    "Argh!" Xiang Wai gave him a look while heughed out in response. "You! Tsk!" she didn''t know what to say to him. She was really lost for words.

    Hyson stoppedughing and said, "You know, you and Jun Ge have a few things inmon."

    "Me and Yanjun?" she asked while he nodded his head. She frowned at that. "What is it?"

    "You both had been too hard on yourselves," he told her. "You both have been carrying some burdens on your hearts. And those burdens always came between your feelings."

    "There is no such thing," she said. "This love was a losing game. I just realized it a littlete."

    Hyson smiled as he said, "Do you really think so? You think he didn''t love you?"

    "You''re saying as if you know anything about our rtionship."

    "I don''t," he answered. "But I know him and now, I know you as well. The only reason this love became a losing game was that you both didn''t even know how to love. It''s not your fault or his for that matter. You both just really didn''t learn what love is and that''s the reason why you both ended up hurting each other despite trying your best to make it work."

    "Maybe you''re wrong," she said in a very soft voice.

    "That''s possible," said Hyson. "After all, I''m no irvoyant. But I do know that you both are overthinkers and both are heavily influenced by your family situations. You both had too much on your minds and when you''re busy with your thoughts, you lose connection with your heart. And that''s where problems begin."

    "I don''t think you have ever been in love,"mented Xiang Wai.

    Hyson nodded, "True. But I grew up in love. I have always been surrounded by love."

    "Is that even possible? To be always surrounded by people who love you?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "The point is, all I remember is that wherever I went, I found someone who genuinely offered love and care to me. As for the ones who had evil thoughts and malice in their hearts, I purposely removed them from my life and my memory. Why should I ruin my life for people who don''t like me? Isn''t it better to focus on that one person who genuinely likes you?"

    Xiang Wai finally understood why he was able to see through her so clearly. He was a deep person. His perception of life and things were kinda scary. He knew what he wanted and he knew what really mattered. And that''s why he was able to keep that smile on his face all the time. No wonder he looked like sunshine.

    "You really fool people with your looks," said Xiang Wai. "It''s hard to figure out what kind of a person you are by the way you act."

    "I like being a mystery," said Hyson cheekily. "It''s fun."

    "And who is gonna solve this mystery?" asked Xiang Wai with a smile.

    "If anyone I found he solved the mystery names Yue Fai, I''d marry that person."

    Xiang Waiughed out, "What? That simple?"

    "You think it''s simple? But it''s not. Because I''m anything but simple." He looked very confident and shone brighter when he spoke. He said he was the attention-seeker but the truth was, he always got the attention without even trying. Because he was born to stay in that limelight. It definitely belonged to him. "By the way, why did youe out?"

    Only then did Xiang Wai remember, "Fuck! I was gonna buy some snacks at the store."

    "Okay, Major, no cursing!" said Hyson. "It has a negative impact on my mind."

    Xiang Wai narrowed her eyes at him, "Oh my gosh! You''re so..." She couldn''t find the right word and ended up punching the air in exasperation and Hyson pursed his lips to hide hisughter.

    "There are so many snacks at home," said Hyson. "Why don''t you say you just wanted to find an excuse toe out and take a walk?"

    "Whatever!"

    "I say, Major, you''re really not eloquent," said Hyson. "You can''t even argue with people. How did you survive until now?"

    "By relying on my fists," she answered as she showed him her fist. "Wanna have a taste of it?" Hyson ced his hand on her fist and pushed it down saying, "No, thank you! I''m fine without tasting it."

    "Oh, did you find a blind date for my Ge?" asked Xiang Wai yfully.

    "I even found one for you," was Hyson''s response that changed her expression.

    "I don''t want to go on a blind date," said Xiang Wai.

    "It''s a double date," said Hyson. "I think you can sacrifice this much for your brother''s future."

    "Why do I feel like you''re trying to manipte me right now?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Am I? No way!" responded Hyson as he avoided her gaze. "I''m a good boy. I don''t manipte people."

    "Only ghosts would believe you," said Xiang Wai.

    Hyson looked to the empty space beside him and asked, "So, ghost, do you believe me?"

    Xiang Wai''s lips twitched as she asked, "What are you doing?"

    "Asking for the ghost''s opinion," he replied matter-of-factly.

    "There is no ghost there," she argued.

    "You don''t know that," was his argument. "Just because you can''t see it, doesn''t mean it''s not there." He looked at her meaningfully, "It''s just like love. Just because you didn''t notice it, doesn''t mean it hadn''t been there."

 Chapter 808 Grown-Up Fools

    Chapter 808 Grown-Up FoolsˇˇˇˇXiang Wai felt like she was gonna lose whatever brain cells she had if she continued to talk to this man. It was so difficult to have a proper conversation with him without feeling attacked. And he was really attacking her with his words every passing minute!

    And he was so damn annoying as well!

    She held the back of her neck. She felt like her blood pressure was shooting up because of this man. She had never been this mad at anyone in her life and never felt this helpless before anyone. She so wanted to beat him but couldn''t do so.

    "Can you stop attacking me?" she raised her hand to mess up his hair as she asked that question. She couldn''t do anything else apart from that.

    "Ah!" Hyson shouted at her and red. "You! Do you know how much time it takes to set up my hair? How can you mess up my hairstyle?"

    "Who asked you to annoy me?" she retorted.

    "You wait for me. I''m gonna tell my godmother!"

    Xiang Wai snorted, "What else can you do apart from that? You only know how to tattletale like a kid."

    "Yes, I''m a kid. So what?" he shot up angrily.

    *Honk*

    Both of them paused when they heard the honking of the car. They looked up and found Zhai Yanjun''s car parked beside them. He rolled down his window and gave both of them an inexplicable look.

    "What are you both doing?" he asked with the corner of his lips tugged up.

    He had onlye to see his aunt Yue but didn''t think he''d see this scene at the gate.

    "You ask her!" said Hyson. "She is mental! She just ruined my hair."

    "Ruined your hair?" repeated Xiang Wai and ended up pulling his hair making Hyson gape at her in disbelief.

    "How dare you!"

    Xiang Wai gave him a smug look, "I even dare to make you bald! You annoying kid!"

    "That''s it!" said Hyson. "You''re gonna pay for this, Major!"

    With that, he even rolled up his sleeves as if he was ready to fight while Xiang Wai was even more eager to jump in.

    Zhai Yanjun''s pupils constricted when he noticed their actions and ran out of the car to stop them. He hugged Xiang Wai from the back and picked her up to stop her saying, "Both of you, stop it!"

    "No, you put her down!" said Hyson.

    "Yanjun, you better put me down," was Xiang Wai''s voice.

    "I just want you both to calm down," said Zhai Yanjun trying to keep them away from each other.

    "This matter is beyond the point of calm now," said Hyson. "She pulled four of my hair. My four precious hair! I''m so mad!" He looked at Zhai Yanjun in a serious manner and said, "You either let me punch her, or she''ll have to lose five hair right here!"

    "Huh?" Hyson''s words dumbfounded Zhai Yanjun.

    "You only lost four though," said Xiang Wai.

    "I have to take interest!" retorted Hyson.

    Xiang Waiughed out, "Seriously?"

    "Of course!" was Hyson''s reply. "Youe down and pay what you owe me!"

    Xiang Wai patted Zhai Yanjun''s arm, "You let me down. Are you worried that I''ll hurt your brother? Don''t worry I''ll go easy on him."

    Hyson sneered, "You? You''re gonna go easy on me? Come at me. I''ll show you what I''m made of." He looked at Zhai Yanjun, "Stop protecting your ex-girlfriend. I won''t eat her. She is the one provoking me. I''m very innocent."

    "Innocent? Do you even understand the meaning of innocence?"

    "I know it better than you," retorted Hyson at Xiang Wai''s remark.

    Zhai Yanjun felt like he chose the worst time to show up. Why did he get stuck between these two? And when did Xiang Wai be so petty and childish? He could understand Hyson but he couldn''t understand Xiang Wai''s reaction. He wondered what had Hyson done to actually get to her like this? It was an eye-opener.

    But no matter what, he couldn''t let these two fight. Not a physical fight at least. He knew how Xiang Wai fought and as for Hyson, he didn''t know how good he was at fighting and that''s why he was a little worried as well. But seeing Hyson''s confidence, he didn''t really doubt that Hyson was an easy target.

    "Let''s go inside the home and sit down to talk properly," suggested Zhai Yanjun patiently.

    "I was talking properly, she is the one who escted the whole situation into a fight," said Hyson.

    "And would you like to recall what you said? You had been attacking me all this while with your words?"

    "I was just speaking the truth." Hyson rolled his eyes at her. "But you are clearly not fond of the truth. No wonder you reacted so strongly. No matter what, I won''t be changing my words. I always stand by the side of the truth. It never changed and it never will. Whether you like it or not, deal with it!"

    Xiang Wai moved as if she wanted to scratch his face.

    "Wai, Wai, calm down," said Zhai Yanjun. "Fai doesn''t mean to hurt you. He is just like Raelle. They both just speak whatever they feel is right. They can be annoying at times but trust me, they don''t mean you any harm. So you need to be patient with them."

    "Why are you trying to knock sense into her?" asked Hyson. "She isn''t ready to face the fact that whatever I said is true. That''s why my words acted like salt on her wounds. Painful, right?"

    Xiang Wai closed her eyes and took a deep breath to calm herself down. "I only pulled some hair. How did you react?"

    "Because I don''t like people messing with my hair," was Hyson''s reply. "You have to pay for the loss of my hair."

    "Petty!"

    "I am!"

    "Can you grow up already?"

    "No, if grown-ups are fools like you two then thank you very much, I''m happy right where I am."

 Chapter 809 Murderer

    Chapter 809 MurdererˇˇˇˇZhai Yanjun pursed his lips when he realized that he was just attacked while he just stood there.

    "He just called you a fool," said Xiang Wai.

    Zhai Yanjun sighed, "If it makes him happy, it''s okay. I''ll be just a fool."

    Xiang Wai tsked at his reaction.

    Hyson looked at their posture and reminded, "So how long are you gonna hug her?"

    Only then did Zhai Yanjun realize that he was still hugging Xiang Wai from behind. He immediately let her go and cleared his throat, "Sorry."

    "It''s okay," said Xiang Wai as she scratched the back of her neck.

    Hyson narrowed his eyes at their reaction and snorted, "You both are acting like innocent teenagers. It really doesn''t suit you considering you have had a lot closer physical contact than this."

    Xiang Wai stared at him, "Do you think before speaking?"

    "I do," replied Hyson. "I don''t say mindless things." With that, he ran inside the house and shouted, "Yanyan!"

    "Oh, my little prince!"

    "Opa!" Hyson happily called out and rushed to Grandfather Xiang''s side.

    "What happened to your hair?" asked Grandfather Xiang as he gently straightened his hair.

    "It''s a sad story," said Hyson.

    Grandfather Xiang smiled at him and asked, "Then you can process the sadness and let me know. I''m always here to listen." He took a pause and added, "So, how is our Raelle?"

    "She?" repeated Hyson. "She is fine. She was nning her wedding when I got there."

    "Is that so?" asked Grandfather Xiang in surprise.

    "What? My Elle is nning her own wedding? Then what am I here for?"

    Hyson looked up at Mu Chenyan who came running once she knew that Hyson is home and told her, "Maybe she doesn''t trust your choices anymore."

    Mu Chenyanughed at that and asked, "Do you even believe in what you just said?"

    Hyson shook his head honestly, "I don''t."

    "Exactly," said Mu Chenyan. "My Elle and wedding nning? No, no, no!" she shook her finger to emphasize. "She is definitely not the right person for such things. I''d be feeling over the moon if she even showed up at the wedding as a proper bride."

    Suddenly recalling something, Hyson said, "Oh, oh! I almost forgot to tell you."

    "What?"

    "I''m a genius!" said Hyson proudly.

    "Our little Fai is indeed a genius," agreed Mu Chenyan without even blinking. Without knowing the context, she didn''t mind hyping up her godson. It didn''t cost money and even if it did, she had plenty of that to throw around.

    "Yes, our little prince is unparallel in this world," added Grandfather Xiang.

    Xiang Wai had juste when she heard thesepliments and said, "Stop it. He is about to ascend to heaven already."

    Hyson red at her, "Major, you better stay out of it."

    Xiang Wai shrugged her shoulders while Mu Chenyan asked him, "So, what happened?"

    "I insisted on taking some juice for Raelle and guess what? That became the trigger for Tang Hebe''s recovery," told Hyson proudly. "Aren''t I a genius?"

    "You just got lucky," said Xiang Wai.

    Hyson looked at her and asked, "Oh, and do you have this luck?"

    Xiang Wai frowned and said, "No."

    "So? Not everyone has this luck as well," was Hyson''s argument.

    Mu Chenyan could see that something was up and couldn''t help asking, "Fai, did something happen? Why are you looking at Wai with such obvious displeasure?"

    "You ask her what she did?"

    Mu Chenyan looked at Xiang Wai and raised her brows inquisitively.

    Xiang Wai spread her hands, "I didn''t do anything."

    "She pulled four of my hair!" Hyson announced. "Murderer!"

    "You''re just being petty now," said Xiang Wai.

    "Wai!" came Grandfather Xiang''s voice. "Did you pull his hair or not?"

    "I did," answered Xiang Wai. "But he was annoying me."

    "He is younger than you," reminded Mu Chenyan.

    "You''re spoiling him. He is already a spoiled brat now!"

    "Well, we love to spoil him," said Mu Chenyan. "And it''s not like we can''t afford it." She took a pause and added, "Even if Fai said something to annoy you, I believe he wasn''t being disrespectful to you. And neither did he act rudely. I know my Fai very well."

    Listening to this, Hyson stood up and sighed, "Forget it. I guess Major is right. I was annoying and nosy. I shouldn''t have done it." He looked at Xiang Wai and said sincerely, "I''m sorry, Major. My words ended up hurting you. I shouldn''t have done that. I should stop looking for a filter for Ellie and buy one for myself first." He suddenly winced in pain and shouted, "AH!!"

    He turned his head to look at his mother who was twisting his ear.

    "Mum!"

    He read his mother''s lips as she said, ''Don''t you dare, mum me right now! How dare you mess with her?''

    "I messed with her?" He looked at Zhai Yanjun and said, "You ask him. She also wanted to beat me up."

    ''So what? She is your elder? Can''t you respect her a little more?''

    Hyson looked aggrieved. "Are you taking her side?"

    "Yue, you let him go first," said Mu Chenyan.

    Yue Yue gave her a look and Mu Chenyan didn''t move.

    "You really are my most amazing mother!" said Hyson. "I already apologized. Didn''t I? Why are you still hurting me? It''s painful!"

    ''Is it?'' asked Yue Yue. ''And when did you be so susceptible to pain?''

    Hyson''s painful expression was gone instantly but he still said, "Whether I can feel the pain or not, doesn''t matter. The point is, you''re hurting my feelings right now."

    "Ayi, you should really let him go. It wasn''t really a big deal. Both Wai and him were just ying around," Zhai Yanjun also spoke up. He couldn''t stand seeing the look in Hyson''s eyes.

    While no one was noticing, Zhai Kuijun also came to see what was going on and was frozen in his ce as he looked at Hyson and Yue Yue together. He didn''t react for a moment and when he did, he could only ask, "Yue, Yue Fai is your son?"

    Yue Yue''s hand left Hyson''s ear who also looked up and faced Zhai Kuijun. His brows furrowed up slightly while Yue Yue also turned to look at Zhai Kuijun with a sheepish look.

 Chapter 810 Dog Head

    Chapter 810 Dog HeadˇˇˇˇAt this moment both the Zhai father and son had the same feeling.

    "What the F***!"

    But their feelings werepletely different. Because Zhai Kuijun was in disbelief that Hyson was Yue Yue''s son while Zhai Yanjun was fretting that his father was here. If he knew his father was here, he''d have avoideding here. Now, he got himself into trouble.

    "Yue, you haven''t answered my question," reminded Zhai Kuijun. He had to confirm it at any cost.

    Hyson also looked at his silent mother and snickered, "Don''t tell me, you''re even gonna disown your own son now?"

    Yue Yue rolled her eyes at him and pped his arm.

    "What? If it''s not like that then tell him that I''m your one and only son," said Hyson. "Also, is my identity so shameful that you can''t even talk about it? Or am I not worthy of being your son? I thought I made you proud."

    Even Mu Chenyan''s lips twitched when she heard Hyson talking like that. This dramatic kid could really start the y wherever he wanted to.

    Yue Yue wanted to pinch him but Hyson already knew it so he ran off to hide behind Grandfather Xiang. After all, his mother could subdue Mu Chenyan but she still had to give a face to Grandfather Xiang.

    "Now, you want to hit me again? Did I say something wrong?"

    "He didn''t say anything wrong," added Mu Chenyan. "Little Yue, don''t be so quiet now. How can you not be proud of telling the whole world that our little Fai is your son?"

    "Exactly!" agreed Grandfather Xiang. "Why are you taking so long to tell him that Fai is your son?"

    "You''re hurting the child''s feelings," even Xiang Hulin spoke up and he just joined them on the scene.

    Yue Yue''s face twitched when they all spoke up for her son one by one. And couldn''t help looking at her son who was smirking at her smugly. Of course, he''d be smug. He always had so many people to protect him from her.

    She felt helpless and typed on her phone to let Zhai Kuijun know, ''Brother Kuijun, that''s my son. Yue Fai. It seems you have already met him.''

    This confirmation was a critical hit to Zhai Kuijun. But he was actually relieved to know that Yue Yue hadn''t been struggling alone in all those years. She had a son and a family of her own. Earlier when they sat together to talk, he didn''t even ask whether she got married or not. It seemed it was his own mistake.

    "Yes, I have met him," said Zhai Kuijun. "You have a very good son."

    Yue Yue smiled at him in response and said, ''I know.''

    "Wait! Mum, did you just say you know that I''m a good son? Why are you usually hounding me then?"

    Yue Yue red at him, ''Don''t think you can run from what you did.'' She turned to Xiang Wai, ''I apologize for what my son did. You can treat him like a kid. He doesn''t mean any harm. It''s just thattely, he had been a little too active because his best friend is in hospital. It might not look like it, but it has a huge impact on him. So, don''t mind whatever he says. I know he is annoying but please, bear with him.''

    Xiang Wai was taken aback and shook her head saying, "Aunt, you don''t have to say that. We were really just ying around."

    "Was my apology a joke?" asked Hyson. "Why are you apologizing?" He came out from behind Grandfather Xiang and looked straight at Xiang Wai, "You! Major, I don''t like people making my mother apologize to them."

    "I didn''t ask her to," said Xiang Wai.

    "Why do you think you''re still able to argue with me here?" retorted Hyson. "If you had asked her for an apology, I''d have already blown your dog head off!"

    "Dog head?" repeated Xiang Wai and heard the sound ofughtering from the side. She looked over and found her brother leisurely leaning against the wall as he watched the scene with amusement. "Earlier, you called Yanjun a dog. And now, this?" She turned to Zhai Yanjun, "He called you a dog."

    Zhai Yanjun was trying to sneak out of there when he was called by Xiang Wai and had to give up. He looked back and cleared his throat, "Oh, really?" he ced his elbow on Hyson''s shoulder, "So, you think I am as loyal as a dog?"

    Hyson gave him a hollowugh, "No, I think you''re all bark and no bite."

    "Do you wanna try my bite now, little brother?" asked Zhai Yanjun yfully.

    "Try me!" challenged Hyson.

    "Oi! Yanjun, behave yourself!"

    Zhai Yanjun was caught off guard and looked at Xiang Weimin.

    "You can''t think about biting the mascot of our family."

    Zhai Yanjunughed at that, "Weimin Ge, even you?"

    "Of course," answered Xiang Weimin. "Our mascot is looking for a blind date for me. How can I let him be hurt by you?"

    "What?" Zhai Yanjun stared at Hyson and Xiang Weimin.

    "Not just Weimin Ge, I nned a double-blind date for Weimin Ge and Major Wai as well," and that''s how Hyson threw the bomb at Zhai Yanjun''s head. No, it was a straight shot to his heart that made Zhai Yanjun freeze. And Hyson''s lips curled up in a smug smile. Since this brother loved to irritate him by using his mother''s affection for him, Hyson had to get back at him in some way.

    Theypletely forgot that there were elders standing around them even now and were actually listening to their conversation attentively.

    "Zhai. Yan. Jun!" Zhai Kuijun called out to his son taking a long pause between each character of his name. "You have a lot to exin, son!"

    Oops!

    Zhai Yanjun bit his bottom lip and closed his eyes. That''s why he wanted to sneak away while his father hadn''t noticed him. Now, he had no way to run.

 Chapter 811 Untrustful

    Chapter 811 UntrustfulˇˇˇˇHyson patted Zhai Yanjun''s shoulder, "You have a lot to exin, Captain! Best of luck with that!" Then he slipped away and shouted, "Yanyan, I''m hungry! Hungry! Hungry! Hungry!"

    "I heard that!" came Mu Chenyan''s helpless voice. "Didn''t you eat with Elle?"

    "I did but everything is digested by now," replied Hyson. "Give me something to eat. There is a marathon going on in my tummy."

    "And who is participating in that marathon?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "Rats, cats, chickens... Everyone is running."

    "Even chickens?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "It''s my tummy," replied Hyson. "Anything is possible in there."

    "Yes, just like anything is possible with you," said Xiang Wai.

    "Wow! Major, you figured me out. Have you been paying so much attention to me? Why? Are you interested in me?"

    "Ha! What if I am?" retorted Xiang Wai.

    "Then I can only say, sorry! You''re not my type!"

    All of them walked toward the dining room leaving Zhai Kuijun facing Yue Yue and Zhai Yanjun. While Hyson should have been there since it involved him but that guy didn''t think it was necessary for him to sit down to catch up with his father. Besides, he was certain his mother wasn''t gonna disclose his identity to Zhai Kuijun. Not like he wanted her to.

    He was happy being Yue Yue''s son.

    He didn''t want to add a father into the picture after all these years toplicate things.

    "Yanjun!" Zhai Kuijun called out again. "Shouldn''t you be saying something right now?"

    "What?" asked Zhai Yanjun ying dumb for now.

    "Really? Are you gonna y like this now?"

    Zhai Yanjun looked at Yue Yue and sighed, "Ayi asked me to keep it a secret that I met her. I also didn''t think it was important to share this with anyone. So, I just kept it to myself."

    Zhai Kuijun contained to stare at his son and then he stared at Yue Yue.

    "You both have quite a rtionship to keep secrets now,"mented Zhai Kuijun. "Yue, Fai is really your son?"

    Yue Yue nodded her head again. Didn''t they just confirm it already?

    ''Why? Is it that hard to believe?''

    Zhai Kuijun shook his head, "No, it''s just that he isn''t like you at all. When I first met him in Weimin''s ward I was still wondering who were his parents. Such a bright and lively child was something really special so I was really curious about his parents. I didn''t think you''d be his mother."

    Yue Yue wasn''t surprised to hear that. She already knew her son wasn''t like her. In fact, Hyson was mostly like Mu Chenyan and Raelle. And only a part of his silliness came from his own father. As for her, maybe her singing talent was gifted to him. Apart from that, she didn''t think Hyson got anything from her.

    "He is carrying on your dream,"mented Zhai Kuijun.

    Yue Yue smiled proudly and nodded her head, ''Yes, he is. I never had the confidence to stand before people but he does. So, I want the whole world to know how amazing my son is.''

    Zhai Yanjun smiled bitterly when he heard that. It wasn''t his first time seeing how his Aunt Yue was always proud of her son. Even though she loved to nag him and discipline him. But no one could be prouder than her as well.

    She was just like those parents who won''tpliment their kids on the face but would keep praising their kids behind their backs.

    "And you," Zhai Kuijun looked at his son. "Don''t think I''ll let you go. You betrayed your own father."

    Zhai Yanjun shrugged his shoulders, "Technically, I didn''t. You never asked me to tell you if I find Ayi. I found her on my own and so what if I wanted to keep her to myself? Do you want me to bring her back to face the Yue family? For what?"

    Zhai Kuijun stopped talking. He couldn''t understand his son. If he was in Zhai Yanjun''s ce, even he wouldn''t want to ruin the peace of Yue Yue''s life. She had built her own life out here. How could he force her to face the past that only hurt her?

    *Ring*

    Suddenly, the phone in Yue Yue''s hands rang. The phone belonged to Mu Chenyan and she had yet to give it back to her. Shepletely forgot about it. She looked at the caller id and raised her brow. What was ''Sharp tooth''? What kind of a caller id was that? She really couldn''t understand her best friend.

    "You''re not gonna take that?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    ''The phone isn''t mine.''

    "Don''t just stand there," came Mu Chenyan''s voice. "Let''s all have some supper."

    Yue Yue shook her phone and Mu Chenyan ran over to take it. She epted the call and a loud voice came from the speaker, "Target is locked. Waiting for instructions."

    Suddenly, there was silence around her and Mu Chenyan looked at the three people around her with a smile. She should have lowered the voice of her phone. Or maybe she should ask this stupid ''Sharp tooth'' to talk in a normal voice.

    "Just keep your eyes open for now," said Mu Chenyan and hung up the phone.

    ''What was that?''

    "What was what?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    ''ying dumb?''

    "What are you saying? How can I y dumb when I am dumb?" was Mu Chenyan''s response to Yue Yue.

    ''Should I tell Elder Xiang?''

    Mu Chenyan chuckled, "Sure. Go ahead."

    Yue Yue narrowed her eyes suspiciously at Mu Chenyan but Mu Chenyan wasn''t flustered. Whether she had something to hide or not was really not clear to Yue Yue. Damnit! Why was it so difficult to read all these people around her? Only she was the simplest rabbit stuck between these wolves. That''s it! That''s the truth! Even her innocent little son wasn''t all that innocent. Only she was the oblivious party here.

    Mu Chenyan held her arm and dragged her, "It''s really nothing. Do you think I''m gonna murder someone or what? We live in awful society. Don''t worry. I''m a good person."

    Yue Yue nodded her head perfunctorily, not believing a word of Mu Chenyan. Even Mu Chenyan felt helpless about that. Was she that untrustful?

 Chapter 812 Ill Go

    Chapter 812 I''ll GoˇˇˇˇMu Chenyan could only shake her head helplessly since it seemed, she was really that untrustful. That couldn''t be helped now since her reputation was already set in stone years ago. She could only ept it now.

    Not like it had much of an effect on her.

    When they entered the dining room, the room was lively. Even from outside, Mu Chenyan could hear the voices of Hyson and Xiang Wai. Even Xiang Weimin added some words from time to time. She was suddenly in an even better mood.

    The house that was too silent for years was getting livelier. How could she not be happy about it?

    When it was just Grandfather Xiang, her, and Raelle, the house was really empty and silent, and it felt cold and lonely. Only now it started to feel more like home. Raelle was a silent person, to begin with, and she preferred to stay in silence as well. Although she never asked anyone to keep quiet, for some reason even the house help was scared of disturbing Raelle whenever she was home. So, even they''d take every step lightly so as to make as little sound as possible.

    No matter how much of a troublemaker Mu Chenyan was, she had toned down her behavior when there was no one around to deal with her troubles. She started acting maturely and wisely like an elder. It was only when Hyson was around that she''d asionally let herself go and bring out that recklessness she was notorious for.

    As for Grandfather Xiang, he had always been a serious person.

    So, the Xiang Manor had always been a ce that was filled with silence. But now, it started to feel more and more like a home filled with boisterous kids.

    "Fai, are you serious about the double date?" inquired Xiang Weimin while looking at his sister.

    "I am," answered Hyson. "Aren''t I good?"

    Xiang Hulin gave him a thumbs up, "You''re the best."

    "Uncle Lin, I think you and I can be good friends," said Hyson. "Only you have the best taste in this family."

    "What about me?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    "Opa, you''re already my person," was Hyson''s reply. "How can you even bepared with them? There is noparison at all. In fact, I should say, it''s because Uncle Lin is your son that he has such refined taste. The credit is all yours."

    "Wow! You really know how to butter people up,"mented Xiang Wai when she noticed how Grandfather Xiang was so easily pleased by Hyson''s words. She couldn''t believe it. She also couldn''t believe how her own father was falling for this trickster''s tricks? Did it even make sense?

    "Wai," called out Xiang Weimin. "You''ll have a happier life if you stop butting heads with Fai."

    Xiang Wai gaped at her brother, "Ge? Are you really my brother?"

    "I''m your brother and that''s why I gave you my sincerest advice," replied Xiang Weimin.

    "You all are scheming against me," said Xiang Wai.

    "Why don''t you really listen to Fai and go on that double date?" suggested Xiang Hulin. "I don''t see anything wrong with that. Don''t think that you''re going on a blind date. Just think that you''re going to make some new friends."

    Although he never interfered in his children''s personal lives, it didn''t mean he wasn''t concerned about them at all. He was actually really worried that both Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai were single even at this age and didn''t even show any interest in dating much less marriage. In this case, Raelle was better.

    But even if these two never wanted to get married, he won''t say anything. Raelle chose to get married because she thought it was the right thing to do. But not everyone has the same thought. So, he really understood his children''s decision to stay devoted to their jobs. However, as a father, he couldn''t help worrying and wanted them to at least try out before deciding anything.

    "I''ll go on the blind date."

    That''s what Zhai Yanjun heard when he entered the dining room and felt like someone just stabbed his heart once again. He really didn''t think it''d hurt this much. Especially when it was just the talk of going on a blind date. Why was he reacting so extremely? What would happen once she got married?

    Zhai Yanjun mentally pped himself for even having such thoughts. What marriage? Couldn''t he stay positive for once?

    "Oh, my little Fai, you really have a blind date for our Wai?" asked Mu Chenyan curiously.

    "I do," Hyson nodded his head and even patted his chest. "You can trust me."

    Mu Chenyan rubbed his head lovingly, "I trust you."

    Xiang Wai squinted at their interaction, "Why don''t you tell her to not touch your hair? Do you have to have such double standards?"

    Hyson gave her a look, "She is my godmother. Who the hell are you?" He snorted, "You should first get rid of the very obvious dislike you have for me before asking me such things."

    Xiang Wai made a face and turned her head away from him. She didn''t want to talk to this man anymore. He was challenging her calm mind. She couldn''t let him light another fire in her mind. He already burned enough brain cells of hers.

    Zhai Yanjun chose the seat beside Hyson and continued to look at the side of his face.

    "Stop looking, I know I''m the most handsome here."

    Zhai Yanjun rolled his eyes and leaned over to whisper, "You''re doing it on purpose."

    Hyson raised his brow at him and smirked, "Am I?" Of course, he knew what he was talking about. Wasn''t it just about Xiang Wai''s blind date? How could he not know?

    "Yes, you are," was Zhai Yanjun''s argument. He wasn''t willing to believe that he was just innocently talking about this blind date. He was doing it to hurt him. Especially since he already figured out the rtionship between him and Xiang Wai.

 Chapter 813 Talent & Dream

    Chapter 813 Talent & Dreamˇˇˇˇ"So what if I am?" Hyson wiggled his brows at Zhai Yanjun.

    "You should be on my side," said Zhai Yanjun.

    "Why?" asked Hyson.

    "I''m your brother!"

    Hyson shrugged, "Whatever!" He took a pause and added, "Besides, you both have broken up for over a year now. Don''t you both im that you''ve moved on? I''ll just give you both an opportunity to properly move on now. No need to thank me. I just love being the good guy."

    Zhai Yanjun held the ss of water in his hand and his hand shook.

    "Don''t even think about throwing water on my face," warned Hyson. "It won''t end well for you."

    "I know," gritted out Zhai Yanjun. Even though he had the thought of throwing water at Hyson''s face, even he was clear that he couldn''t do it. Dealing with Hyson was the most difficult thing for Zhai Yanjun and even for Xiang Wai.

    Hyson took a bite of the spring rolls and caught sight of Zhai Kuijun looking at him intently. He put down the remaining spring rolls and looked up at Zhai Kuijun. "Is it that hard to believe that I''m Yue Yue''s son?"

    Zhai Kuijun instinctively nodded his head but then shook his head, "It''s not just that. I was thinking about fate. I met you a couple of times before but never thought we''d be connected in this way."

    ''If you''re this shocked by this news. I wonder how will you survive if you learned that I''m actually your son?'' were Hyson''s thoughts but his expression remained the same. He had no mood for ying father and son y with Zhai Kuijun so he''d rather keep his thoughts to himself.

    Xiang Hulin looked at his best friend and then at Hyson before silently sighing to himself. In fact, Xiang Hulin''s thoughts were exactly like Hyson''s. Even he was wondering how Zhai Kuijun would react if he learned whose son Hyson was. Would he even be able to handle this truth?

    "I say, instead of choosing music as your major, you should have applied for performing arts," spoke Xiang Wai. "You are very talented. Why waste your talent in the music industry? The tv industry is losing out on a gem like you."

    "At least, I have a talent and a dream," retorted Hyson. "What about you, Major? Why don''t you find your own path first?"

    "Ouch!"

    Xiang Wai red at her brother and Xiang Weimin pretended like he didn''t see anything.

    Xiang Hulin pursed his lips to hide hisughter. He was actually enjoying this bickering. It wasn''t every day he''d see his daughter getting so worked up. How could he not enjoy it?

    *Ring*

    Xiang Hulin''s smile vanished when he looked at the disy on his phone screen. He frowned deeply and stood up with his phone before excusing himself and going out to take the call.

    "What a surprise," said Xiang Hulin as soon as he epted the call. "Should I call it an honor that Dr. Song is looking for me on her own ord?"

    Song Xin''ai could hear the derision in his voice but didn''t pay attention to that. "I heard something happened."

    "Dr. Song, how can you be so slow?" asked Xiang Hulin.

    "I was called back to theboratory during the banquet. So, I left halfway. You know that we are not allowed to take our phones inside. I just got a break today and didn''t expect to know that a storm was raised by the Xiang family." She knew she was really slow with the updates. It had always been like that. But once she chose to be a researcher and joined this nationalboratory, it was already established that she''d lose the touch with society and she did.

    It was like that years ago and it was still like that even though she was the senior researcher and the most respected person in thebs now.

    "Well, you shouldn''t be surprised," said Xiang Hulin. "Xiang family had always been capable of calling wind and rain."

    Song Xin''ai took a deep breath and said, "You can stop bragging about your family. I know what Xiang is capable of. What I want to know is what happened exactly?"

    "What? You don''t have the resources to know the whole truth?" asked Xiang Hulin.

    "Where will get those resources?" retorted Song Xin''ai. "Stop being difficult and just give me an answer. I only heard it has something to do with Raelle. Can you at least tell me what happened? And..." She took a pause feeling anxious and asked, "Is she okay?"

    "She is alive if that''s what you want to know," answered Xiang Hulin.

    "Hulin!" she snapped at him. "Do you really think I want something to happen to her? Don''t forget that she is also my daughter."

    "You and I both don''t deserve to im her as our daughter," said Xiang Hulin. "Anyway, since you gave birth to her, I''ll tell you. She got attacked and had a miscarriage. There was someone else at the scene namely Ms. Tang Hebe who saved her from a serious and life-threatening situation."

    Song Xin''ai went silent when she heard him say that. She didn''t react for a long time.

    Xiang Hulin also didn''t speak and gave her time to process this news. It wasn''t that easy for him to ept it. Xiang Hulin and Song Xin''ai both were strangers to Raelle but it couldn''t be denied that they were her parents. And no matter how strong these individuals were, as parents they couldn''t help feeling pain for their children.

    Especially, for the child whom they thought they owed the most.

    "Which hospital?" asked Song Xin''ai.

    "You want to pay her a visit?" asked Xiang Hulin.

    "I don''t need to tell you that. Just tell me the hospital," said Song Xin''ai. So, Xiang Hulin just informed her about the hospital and hung up the call. He didn''t think they had anything else to talk about. And if it wasn''t to ask about Raelle, Song Xin''ai wouldn''t have called her today either.

 Chapter 814 Accept A Father

    Chapter 814 ept A Fatherˇˇˇˇ"I tell you, it''s really funny how Major gets so worked up over little things I say," Hyson wasughing his heart out as he recounted everything that happened yesterday to Raelle on the video call.

    "Or maybe you just figured out how to tick her off," was Raelle''s nd response. "And since you liked the way she was worked up, you ended up purposely getting on her nerves."

    Hyson grinned, "As always, it''s our Ellie who understands me best." He didn''t even argue or deny her words. After all, he couldn''t argue with Raelle since she was right. As he said, she really understood him the best. "But the best part was the way I K.O-ed my dear brother."

    "As much I know Zhai Yanjun, he must not have been able to sleep sincest night," said Raelle.

    Hyson hehe-ed at that and said, "Well, who asked him to always annoy me? If he didn''t try to take away my mum, I''d have gone easy on him."

    "You''re still going easy on him," reminded Raelle. "Are you trying to really fool me as you fooled him? Do you think I''m that easy to fool?"

    Hyson pursed his lips since he didn''t darement about that. Anyone could be a fool but Raelle Xiang. How could he dare say she was easy to fool? It was a child''s y for him to fool anyone with his words and his impable performance but when it came to Raelle, he really couldn''t fool her.

    "Although most of the time you like doing things carefreely, you still have a reason behind each of your acts. You intentionally picked on Zhai Yanjun, not because of your mother. It was because you wanted to understand what was going on between Xiang Wai and Zhai Yanjun. As you said to Zhai Yanjun, they broke up a long time ago so they should have moved on. But you just realized by interacting with them that neither of them actually moved on. They are still those ignorant little fools who don''t know how to love."

    "Damn!" muttered Hyson as he looked at her. "I should have stopped you when you wanted to learn human psychology." He shook his head, "I say one word and you figure out the whole scene."

    "That''s because you''re not that difficult to figure out," replied Raelle.

    "Only you''d say that," hemented.

    "No, most people have the same opinion that they can understand you. But the difference is, when they say they figured you out, they are actually fooled by what you showed them. However..."

    "However, when you say you have me figured out, that''s the ultimate truth." Hysonpleted her sentence for her and she nodded in response.

    "Now that you''ve figured out where Xiang Wai and Zhai Yanjun stand, what are you up to?" asked Raelle.

    "What if I say, I''m gonna take matters into my hands? I''m gonna be nosy from now on?"

    Raelle gave him a nod, "That''s what I expected from you." She wasn''t surprised by his words. It was expected of him. Not because he was a nosy person. Just because he genuinely was concerned about Zhai Yanjun. If it was just Xiang Wai, he wouldn''t go so far. But Zhai Yanjun was different.

    No matter how much he ran from it, this blood connection couldn''t be denied.

    So, instead of denying it, he''d just choose to protect his fool brother.

    "Best of luck!" said Raelle.

    Hyson smiled at her, "Thank you! I might need your cooperation in the future as well."

    "You don''t have to tell me that. You know already that I''m always here for you."

    "I know," he replied. "Where else does my narcissismes from? Doesn''t ite from the fact that I have an almighty best friend protecting me? It''s because you are willing to clean up my mess that I''m never afraid of making a mess."

    He was being very cheeky but every word he said was from his heart. It couldn''t be denied that half of Hyson''s arrogance and unruly personality was developed because he had Raelle behind her.

    "You said Yue Yue met Zhai Kuijun?" asked Raelle.

    "Hmm..." Hyson hummed in response carelessly.

    "Don''t you have anything to say about that?"

    Hyson thought about it and shook his head, "I really don''t. You already know that I''m not all that interested in this topic."

    "Even if you''re not interested, you''re my best friend. You must have noticed something."

    Hyson smiled at her, "Are you indirectlyplimenting yourself?"

    "Am I?"

    Hyson shook his head and told her, "I did notice a couple of things. For instance, Mr. Zhai Kuijun is genuinely concerned about my mum. He had a look of relief on his face but his eyes couldn''t hide his fear. He was afraid that once he moved his eyes away from her, she''ll be gone once again. What else did I notice? Ah! My mum might have hidden from him for years, she was very happy to actually meet him."

    "That''s all?"

    Hyson looked at the ceiling and continued, "And, my mum is still easily affected by Mr. Zhai Kuijun. Also, Mr. Zhai Kuijun is still oblivious that my mum had been in love with him for more than half of her life. Ironic, isn''t it?"

    "Not really," answered Raelle. "You can''t say he is blind just because he can''t tell that Yue Yue had been in love with him. It depends on the kind of rtionship they once had. You and I can''t judge either of them."

    "Who has time to judge them?" retorted Hyson. "I don''t even have enough time to sleep and eat these days. Why would I bother myself with the thoughts of their rtionship? Don''t I have a life of my own?" Before Raelle could say anything, he added, "But one thing I can assure you, my mum isn''t willing to tell him about me. And if my mum doesn''t speak, no one around her will speak this truth including me. You know what that means? I don''t have to ept a father into my life."

 Chapter 815 Facing The Devil

    Chapter 815 Facing The Devilˇˇˇˇ"I know," answered Raelle.

    How could she not know? He did, just like she had a tiny space in her family. He didn''t feel the need to have a father.

    "But how long do you think this secret can be a secret?" asked Raelle.

    "Who cares?" retorted Hyson. "Let''s not talk about that. I have something to ask. Did you see Tang Hebe?"

    Raelle shook her head, "Nope. She woke up in the evening but she wasn''t willing to see anyone."

    "She must have a guilty conscience," said Hyson.

    "No, she is just embarrassed," was Raelle''s point of view.

    And Hyson thought it made sense. "Indeed. Our Ellie is always right. She definitely must be feeling embarrassed after recovering her memories. I can understand her. If I was her, I''d feel the same way."

    "No way," said Raelle.

    "What?" asked Hyson.

    "You definitely won''t feel embarrassed if you''re in her position," stated Raelle.

    "Why not?" he inquired.

    "Because you have a thick skin," was Raelle''s reply that shut him up.

    "Do you have to insult your best friend like this?" he asked.

    "When did I insult you? I''m just stating facts. As you know, I can''t lie."

    Hyson chuckled to himself and rolled his eyes at her response. She really knew how to use her dialogue, ''I can''t lie.'' to get out of any situation.

    "By the way, are you done checking your emails?" asked Hyson.

    "What are you talking about?"

    "I''m neither blind nor a fool," said Hyson. "We met just yesterday and today, you called me early in the morning to chat? Do you want me to believe that you missed me that much? Or were you so bored that you looked for me?"

    "You can believe either of that," said Raelle nkly.

    "Well, I don''t believe any of it," responded Hyson. "You''re just using the time to have this video chat with me to check your mails. Otherwise, we spent months not calling each other and you never missed me enough to call me on your own."

    "Maybe I have changed now."

    "Only ghosts would believe you," said Hyson.

    "Then why don''t you believe me? Aren''t you also a ghost?"

    Hyson squinted his eyes at her, "Have you ever seen such a handsome ghost like me?"

    "I have never seen ghosts, I have nothing to make a properparison," answered Raelle. Then she changed the topic, "How about youe over and we have a movie day? There is a big screen tv in my ward. I think it''s suitable for watching movies."

    "You''re just trying to trick me intoing and then you''ll y a horror movie," said Hyson. "I don''t wanna watch it. Why don''t you watch it with Xian Ge?"

    "Oh, when ites to horror movies, you''re the best movie partner," said Raelle. "Why are you making that face? Aren''t Iplimenting you here?"

    "I don''t want such apliment," Hyson red at her. "I refuse to join you for another horror movie."

    "I have ice cream here," he heard Raelle''s voice. "All the vors you can ask for. I''ll buy it all and won''t even limit how much you can eat."

    Hyson was so tempted by that but he refused to fall for this trick again. Every time she dragged him to a horror movie, he was always lured by that ice cream. How could he fall for the same trick over and over again? Because only Raelle let him eat ice cream, even his always doting godmother won''t let him eat ice cream.

    But even then there was a limit on how much he could eat. Although being an adult, he could be unruly and just buy it on his own to eat but he never did it. He knew these people were just concerned about his health. So, he just acted liked the good baby he was and never tried to sneakily eat ice cream.

    Hyson covered his ears and said, "No. It''s not good for my health. Didn''t the doctors say I should not indulge myself so much or else I might develop some heart problem? How can you even think about ruining me like this?"

    "So, now you do remember that you are not supposed to eat so much ice cream? Where is the boy who threw tantrums in the middle of the street just so I promise him that I''d buy his ice cream for all his life?"

    Hyson cleared his throat, "I was fourteen at that time. Very young and foolish. You should have acted like an adult and shouldn''t have given into my tantrum."

    "Okay. Next time I won''t fall for your tantrums."

    Hyson was horrified, "No! You can''t do that. You have to take in all my tantrums. Don''t even think about escaping! This friendship is for life and you''re stuck with me anyway. Can''t you just be nicer? I''m the only friend you got anyway. I should get some privileges."

    "Should I remind you how many privileges you already get for being my best friend?" asked Raelle.

    Hyson shook his head, "No. How can you list such things? It makes you seem calctive."

    "Oh, but aren''t I a very calctive person?"

    "How can you say that? You''re the best!"

    "All this nonsense, just so you can avoid watching the horror movie with me?"

    Hyson sighed, "Can''t you understand me? I just yed a ghost joke with Major yesterday andst night, in my dreams, I literally had a ghost buddy roaming around with me. It gave me creeps. Look at my dark circles. Look at how poor this baby is. He can''t even sleep properly."

    "Your fear of ghosts is unfounded," stated Raelle.

    "You just won''t understand it!" he argued. "I told you I saw a ghost when I was a kid."

    "You also said you have seen an angel when you first met me," reminded Raelle. "How am I supposed to believe you?"

    Hyson sighed, "My eyes yed tricks on me back then. I was facing the devil and called her an angel. It was my mistake. But I''m not wrong about the ghost!"

 Chapter 816 Too Old

    Chapter 816 Too Oldˇˇˇˇ"You know this devil doesn''t like to repeat herself, right?" asked Raelle. "But considering you''re my best friend, I''ll repeat myself. There are no ghosts."

    Hyson pouted at her, "You just don''t believe me."

    "I want tough," said Raelle out of nowhere.

    Hyson stared at her face and said, "I don''t believe you."

    "See?" replied Raelle. "There are things we both say that is hard to believe."

    Hyson made a face at her and rolled his eyes, "You''ll just say anything to make a point. Whatever! As long as I believe that I saw a ghost, I don''t care about your opinion."

    "As you should," she said. "In your life, only your opinion should matter. Even if I''m your best friend, you don''t have to go along with me. That won''t be fair to you." She took a pause to add, "Yes, you can take my opinion into consideration but at the end of the day, your own thoughts shouldn''t be ignored."

    "You can stop now," he said. Did he look like he was interested in this deep talk? "Are you done checking your emails? Should I hang up?"

    "Why are you so eager to hang up?" asked Raelle.

    "Oh, I''m gonna contact the blind date I picked for Xiang Wai and ask him when is he free," replied Hyson.

    "You have to get back to shoot," reminded Raelle. "At most, you''ll get to be here for a week. Do you have to keep yourself busy with these matchmaking sessions?" Before he could argue, she went, "But then again, what''s fun to you is something I can''t understand. Please do whatever keeps you happy."

    Hyson was happy to hear that and smiled at her in satisfaction.

    "So, who did you find for Xiang Weimin?" asked Raelle.

    "It''s a secret," he replied cheekily.

    "Why don''t you just say you still have no idea? Why are you fooling everyone?"

    Hyson tsked at that, "These things should be kept between us. You don''t have to be so blunt and say it out loud. I''m looking, okay? It''s not that easy. Especially because I don''t know all that many girls."

    "Fine," said Raelle. "By the way, where is Yanyan?"

    "Oh, she is not home," answered Hyson. "She went out early in the morning. She said she is meeting an old friend. And she was actually very excited and took her sweet time getting ready before leaving. Who do you think she is seeing?"

    "As if you and I know her friends," said Raelle.

    "True," agreed Hyson. "Then why am I asking?"

    "Because you like to waste time. Yours and mine as well," was Raelle''s response.

    "Oh, I''m gonna tell you in advance," said Hyson. "My group members want to visit you when they learned that you''ve been in an ident. But I told them to wait until you''re discharged. So, once youe home, I''ll call them over. Be mentally prepared."

    "You are really treating me like a patient now."

    "Because you are a patient!"

    He shook his head at her. He was just casually telling her that the guys wanted to visit her but in reality,st night he was given a long lecture by all the members. They all said he only called them brothers but didn''t treat them as one otherwise, he''d have told them about something so important. Hyson was besieged by those wolves who howled in her ear for an hour.

    At that time, he was even questioning himself why did he even tell Lin Zhen about Raelle''s ident? He created trouble for himself.

    "I''m hanging up now," said Hyson.

    "So, no movie night?" asked Raelle once again.

    Hyson red at her, "If you promise to watch animation with me, I''ll be right there right now. But if it''s horror, then I''m sorry I''m gonna make a run for my life." Before she could say anything, he added, "And no! Ice cream is not good enough to lure me anymore! I refuse to fall for it again."

    "As if I want to feed you ice cream," she said.

    She really didn''t want to buy him ice cream. His ice cream intake was strictly controlled by her but still, she was not okay with him having ice creams. The doctors really said he was at a risk and should avoid things like ice cream but he refused to listen.

    Back when Yue Yue was pregnant with Hyson, she was practically homeless with no money and even no identity of her own. It took a lot of effort to give birth to Hyson but no matter what, Hyson was born a weak child. There were plenty ofplications and Yue Yue had to work even extra hard to raise him like a normal child.

    But some things can''t be helped. Although he was considered healthy, there were hidden dangers regarding his health that still worried everyone. By training with Raelle, his body had be stronger than it was when he was a child. However, no one was willing to take risks with his health.

    "You already don''t let me eat ice cream," he reminded. "Every time I say I want to eat two scoops, you only buy me one. How stingy!"

    "I don''t even wanna talk about that with you," said Raelle. "By the way, animations are for kids! Grow up!"

    Hyson stuck out his tongue at her, "You''re never too old for cartoons."

    "Okay, scram now!"

    Hyson tsked, "You must be done with your emails now. So, you''re discarding me like a used tissue!"

    "If I wanted to discard you, you wouldn''t be here right now." With that, she hung up the call.

    Hyson looked at the ck screen and raised his brows before typing a message, "As if getting rid of me is that easy? You, Raelle Xiang, might be mighty but still, you lost. Aren''t I still in your life? Whether you like it or not, I''ll still be here." With a smug smile, he clicked the send button and whistled as he leaned back to close his eyes for a moment to rest.

 Chapter 817 [Bonus chapter] Not So Important

    Chapter 817 [Bonus chapter] Not So ImportantˇˇˇˇSong Xin''ai thought a lot before she decided to visit the hospital. She knew she had no right to appear before Raelle but she still wanted to check up on her. She at least wanted to see her with her own eyes. Even if she learned from Xiang Hulin that Raelle was fine, she wanted toe and see Raelle once.

    "Dr. Song?"

    Song Xin''ai turned around and faced Gong Qiubai, also known as Mrs. Gu. "Oh, it''s you."

    "What? You are at the hospital I work at and you''re surprised to see me here?" asked Mrs. Gu.

    Song Xin''ai had a look of realization, "It must have slipped my mind."

    "That isn''t surprising," said Gong Qiubai. "You''ve always been cut off from the world because of your work. So, it''s normal that you forgot where I work. But what are you doing here? Are you sick?"

    Song Xin''ai pursed her lips and didn''t reply.

    Gong Qiubai thought of something and asked, "You''re here for those patients of the Xiang family, right?"

    Song Xin''ai nodded her head, "Yes. Do you know where I can find them?"

    "Which one are you looking for?" asked Gong Qiubai. "One patient''s name is Raelle Xiang and the other is Tang Hebe who was brought with her."

    Song Xin''ai hesitated for a long while before saying, "I''m looking for Tang Hebe."

    Gong Qiubai raised her brows at Song Xin''ai, "Jie, you''re not looking for Raelle Xiang? I thought you are here for her. After all, she is the one from the Xiang family."

    "I''ll see herter," replied Song Xin''ai. "But she might not want to see me. So, I''ll first check up on Tang Hebe."

    "Oh, okay," replied Gong Qiubai. "Then youe with me, I''ll take you to her ward."

    "You can tell me where it is, I don''t want to take your time," said Song Xin''ai.

    "I''m on break for a while," said Gong Qiubai. "And it''s rare to see you. I''ll just use this time to chat with you." She started walking towards the elevator saying, "Then follow me."

    Song Xin''ai silently followed behind her and entered the elevator with her. Gong Qiubai observed Song Xin''ai for a while before telling her, "I met Mu Chenyan the other day. Only then did I learn that someone from the Xiang family was admitted to our hospital. Also, I learned that our Dean is actually Mu Chenyan''s Uncle."

    Song Xin''ai frowned and asked, "The Dean is Professor Gou Danhong?"

    "Yes," replied Gong Qiubai.

    Song Xin''ai nodded her head, "Yes, he is Mu Chenyan''s maternal uncle. In fact, Mu Chenyan has shares in all of the Gou family''s hospitals and medical research centers. So, not only is she the shareholder of this hospital, Mu Chenyan can be considered a top giant in the medical field."

    "The Gou family doesn''t dominate the medical field of our country," replied Gong Qiubai.

    "But Mu Chenyan also has Mu family," reminded Song Xin''ai. "I feel like you know very little about Mu Chenyan. Don''t ever underestimate her."

    "Who is underestimating her?" retorted Gong Qiubai. "But you''re right. It seems I never really knew who Mu Chenyan is." She took a pause and added, "I thought she would beat me up."

    Song Xin''ai chuckled, "If she wanted to beat you up, she''d have done it years ago. She isn''t someone who''d wait for so long to take her revenge. Although people say revenge is the dish best served cold, she doesn''t believe that. She even likes her noodles piping hot, how can she have the patience to eat the cold dish of revenge? If she really wanted to beat you up, she''d have done it when you took her ce."

    Gong Qiubai pursed her lips before saying, "You understand her well."

    "When I got together with her brother, she can be considered a kid," said Song Xin''ai. "I watched her grow up. She is very impulsive. She is very violent. There is no such thing as empathy in her. But at the same time, you can''t find the kindest person than her. She is a conflicted personality. She is very straightforward but she can still confuse you."

    Gong Qiubai sighed, "She is very happy in her life."

    "What did you think? She''d be sad because of what you did? Her life would be destroyed and she''ll fall from her throne just because of your little trick?" retorted Song Xin''ai. She sneered, "She is Mu Chenyan. Even when she was young, she didn''t like to be called a princess. She said she was the Queen and she proved it all her life. So, whatever you do, you can never take her off of her throne. She was meant to wear her crown. She was meant to shine. The biggest mistake you''ve done was being jealous of someone like her. You could never even touch her."

    "Jie, you''re insulting me," said Gong Qiubai.

    "I''m stating facts," replied Song Xin''ai. "Even you know in your heart that you did a mistake by messing with her."

    Gong Qiubai looked sad, "What can I do? I was young and impulsive. I didn''t think about it clearly. I was jealous. I just wanted to take Gu Ye''s attention but he always looked at Mu Chenyan. I got mad and did something reckless. But I did apologize to her. She..."

    "She doesn''t care," Song Xin''ai finished her sentence for her. "Mu Chenyan had been a nonchnt person in her life. Apart from her family, there are hardly any people who can make her sad. If it was her dearest Ge who stood against her instead of Gu Ye, she might have broken down. But it''s a pity that Gu Ye could never be Xiang Hulin and he could never take that ce as well. You thought too highly of your husband, Mu Chenyan didn''t put him at such an important ce in her life. Not then, not now and it''ll never be."

    "Wow, now, you''re even attacking my husband," said Gong Qiubai. "Anyways we are here."

 Chapter 818 Personal Experience

    Chapter 818 Personal Experienceˇˇˇˇ"I didn''t even hesitate before attacking my own husband, what makes you think I''d go easy on yours?"

    Gong Qiubai was left speechless when she heard that. Why did she even bother trying to catch up with her? It''s not like she wasn''t familiar with Song Xin''ai''s antisocial personality and yet she came to her to get attacked?

    "Jie, can you be nicer?" asked Gong Qiubai.

    "I can either be nice or speak the truth," said Song Xin''ai. "I prefer to speak the truth."

    "No wonder you''re all alone," said Gong Qiubai.

    Song Xin''ai''s lips curled up slightly, "Childish."

    With thatment, she knocked on the door and twisted the doorknob to open the door. She didn''t think she had anything more to say to Gong Qiubai. It''s not like they were really friends or anything. The only reason Song Xin''ai had somemunication with Gong Qiubai all these years was that Gong Qiubai was once Mu Chenyan''s friend.

    Song Xin''ai didn''t understand why Gong Qiubai thought she was trying to attack her or Gu Ye with her words. Because Song Xin''ai''s intention was definitely not that. She at most wanted to make it clear to Gong Qiubai that in Mu Chenyan''s life, this husband and wife weren''t so important. How could Song Xin''ai not understand that the only people who could break Mu Chenyan were the ones she called family.

    Mu Chenyan was a strong woman. And there were hardly any things that affected her. The only time Song Xin''ai saw Mu Chenyan breaking down was when Old Madam Xiang died. That woman was more than a mother to Mu Chenyan so it wasn''t surprising that her death did some serious damage to Mu Chenyan. Adding on the fact that Mu Chenyan had to separate from her dearest brother, it truly was a big blow to her.

    "Dr. Song?"

    Song Xin''ai snapped out of her thoughts and looked up at Tang Hebe. "Ms. Tang."

    Tang Hebe was shocked to see Song Xin''ai in her ward. She couldn''t believe she was seeing this person here. It really was unexpected.

    "I heard about your ident," said Song Xin''ai. "And I thought of checking up on you. Hope I''m not disturbing you right now."

    "No, not at all," Tang Hebe replied hurriedly. "Please,e inside and have a seat."

    Song Xin''ai nodded her head and look around before taking a seat. She faced Tang Hebe and said, "I just stopped by to ask how you''re doing."

    "I''m doing fine," said Tang Hebe. "I''m just so surprised to see you here. It''s an honor that you took the time toe here."

    Song Xin''ai smiled at her, "Although my disciple is not around, I still have to take care of her friend for her. So, don''t be so touched." She took a pause and added, "Besides, you can say I''m just using you as an excuse toe here."

    Tang Hebe''s brows furrowed up when she heard that and Song Xin''ai was amused by her expression.

    "You got into an ident with Raelle Xiang," said Song Xin''ai. "And I wanted to see her. But I had no excuse so I decided toe to see you instead. If I''m lucky, I''d be able to see her along the way." She didn''t mind being so straightforward and speaking out her intentions so clearly. Even Tang Hebe was taken aback by her honesty.

    Technically, they didn''t know each other that much. They met only a couple of times and it was because Tang Hebe needed Song Xin''ai''s help. So, they weren''t all that close that Song Xin''ai would take out time toe to see her in the hospital. That''s why Tang Hebe wasn''t surprised that she was used as an excuse. But she was surprised to hear Raelle''s name. And wondered what was the connection there.

    "Dr. Song, how are you rted to Raelle?" she asked.

    "I''m her nominal mother," answered Song Xin''ai honestly. She didn''t think there was anything to hide about this.

    "Nominal mother?" repeated Tang Hebe in shock.

    Song Xin''ai hummed in response, "Yes. Nominal mother. Although I gave her birth, it''s enough to make me her real mother. At most, I''m just the nominal one."

    Tang Hebe couldn''t react for a long while as she stared at Song Xin''ai in disbelief. "I heard that you have kids but most people don''t know who they are. You''ve always kept the identity of your children very hidden. So, I never thought Raelle would be your daughter."

    Song Xin''ai didn''tment on that. Of course, she had to keep her children''s identities a secret. Or else, they''d end up just like Raelle did.

    "Are you familiar with her?" asked Song Xin''ai.

    Tang Hebe pursed her lips before telling her, "She is currently married to my ex-wife. Do you think we are familiar?"

    This time, Song Xin''ai was the one who got shock. She had to take a moment to process this. She did not expect toe across such a connection.

    Song Xin''ai exhaled and said, "That''s very unexpected."

    "I understand," said Tang Hebe.

    "Did you get to see Professor Qiu at the banquet?" asked Song Xin''ai.

    Tang Hebe nodded her head, "Yes, I did. He agreed to help me as well. I was supposed to take Justin to see Professor Qiu but I got into an ident. Now, I''ll have to wait for a while."

    "Then I wish you a speedy recovery," said Song Xin''ai as she stood up. She walked over to her bed and looked at her chart. She read through all the medical reports and nodded her head, "There is nothing wrong with your reports. You''re recovering well. But... Did you have amnesia?"

    Tang Hebe pursed her lips and looked down before nodding, "Yes. It was a temporary memory loss. But I recovered yesterday."

    Song Xin''ai nodded her head, "It''s okay as long as you recovered. But if you think there is a memory gap, it''s better not to force yourself too much. Give your brain some rest. Your injury wasn''t light."

    "I''ll listen to you," answered Tang Hebe obediently.

    "Yes, you should. You have a long life ahead of you."

    "Dr. Song, can I ask you something very personal?" asked Tang Hebe.

    "Sure," replied Song Xin''ai.

    "You also took a divorce from your husband, have you ever regretted it?" she inquired seriously. She didn''t know why she suddenly thought of this question. But she had heard that Song Xin''ai was divorced and now, knowing that she was Raelle''s mother, she really wanted to ask that question. After all, she felt like she could rte.

    "Regret?" repeated Song Xin''ai and fell into deep thought. "I don''t regret it. I made that choice myself. And I know it was the best choice for everyone. I''m a selfish person, you see. As long as I think it was the best choice, I''d stick with it till the end. You can''t change my mind." She took a pause and asked, "Don''t tell me you''re suddenly regretting divorcing your husband?" She narrowed her eyes as she went on, "Answer wisely. Currently, that ex-husband of yours belongs to my daughter. As I said, I''m a very selfish person. I don''t mind hurting you as long as I can protect her happiness."

    Tang Hebe chuckled, "Dr. Song, I just noticed. You''re really Raelle Xiang''s mother."

    "Oh? How did youe to that conclusion?" asked Song Xin''ai.

    "You both don''t hold back," replied Tang Hebe. "I wish my mother was as willing to protect my happiness as you are."

    Song Xin''ai smiled bitterly, "You seem to have the wrong impression of me. I''m the one who gave up on my own daughter. It''s true that as a mother, I do want to protect her happiness but it''s mostly because I owe her too much. I''ll never be able to pay it back to her."

    "At least, your daughter is on your mind," said Tang Hebe sadly. "I, on the other hand, am a disappointment to my own mother. Just because I chose love over my own family."

    "You should give up then," answered Song Xin''ai. "Talking from personal experience, the family members who find you disappointing will only see you as a disappointment. Even if you carve out your heart and ce it on their feet, they''ll jump stomp on it, and walk away. Some families are not worth it. So, don''t be so hard on yourself."

    Tang Hebe didn''t know how to react to those words. She felt like there was depth to those words that she wasn''t able to understand but somehow she could still rte.

    "You should go to see Raelle," said Tang Hebe to Song Xin''ai as she even informed the ward no to Song Xin''ai. "She definitely won''t throw you out. She is way too polite. She doesn''t even frown seeing the ex-wife of her husband. I''m pretty sure she''d be fine with your visit."

    Song Xin''ai thought about it and nodded her head. She couldn''t leave without seeing her daughter anyway. So, why not just see her?

 Chapter 819 Weakness

    Chapter 819 WeaknessˇˇˇˇRaelle was moving her upper body side to side and Shui Xian who was peeling lychees for her was feeling like his head was getting dizzy from her movement.

    "Babes, what are you doing?" asked Shui Xian. "Can''t you sit still for a moment?"

    Raelle looked up at him, "I have nothing to do. I can''t even peel my own lychee. Since I am not allowed to do anything, sitting here is gonna make me get moldy!"

    Shui Xian''s lips curled up before he brought peeled lychee before her mouth and said, "You won''t get moldy. Trust me!"

    Raelle opened her mouth naturally and bit the lychee. She chewed it slowly before telling Shui Xian, "Do you know what my first thought was when I ate my first lychee?"

    Shui Xian''s hand movements stopped and he looked at her curiously, "I don''t know but I''m super interested in knowing." Even if it was just a meaningless talk about a fruit review, he was interested in knowing about the young Raelle.

    "I was 7 at that time and when I ate it, I thought it not only looks like an eyeball, its texture even feels like one," told Raelle.

    Shui Xian chuckled when he heard that. "That''s a very interesting thought." He took a moment and asked, "I won''t ask what''s your favorite fruit. You just eat whatever I give you anyway. So, I''ll tell you my personal favorites."

    "What is it?" she asked. She might have avoided just tedious conversations usually but currently, she had too much time on hand. And since she was already wasting that time, why not pry into the small habits of her husband she didn''t figure out yet?

    "Mango," he told her. "Mango and I had a love affair every summer. It''s been like that for as long as I remember."

    Raelle nodded her head.

    "I also love dragonfruits and mangosteens," added Shui Xian. "But growing up, my love affair with mangoes didn''t change. Nothing could take the ce of mango in my heart."

    "Hyson likes mangoes," told Raelle. "But then again, he likes to eat in general. However, he is still particr about what he is gonna eat. You see, he doesn''t like peaches so I don''t eat them too. I can eat whatever but I am heavily influenced by the taste of people around me." She took a pause before saying, "I just realized it prettyte in my life."

    Shui Xian looked at her, "I already figured that much. People around you n your eating habits. Just like Hyson once told me that he had to take the menu and order for you. And since he is the one to order, he''ll do it ording to his likes and dislikes. But that never seemed to be your concern. You''re always okay with that."

    "Why be so particr about food? Isn''t it just to keep you alive?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian didn''t respond to that. After feeding her lychees, he put cherries into her mouth and even ced his hand before her mouth to allow her to spit out the pits. They really gave off the feeling of an old couple who were way toofortable with each other. Just snacking on fruits and watching animal on tv while talking about random things once again.

    It was at this time, that they heard a knock that ruined thefortable moment between them. Raelle looked at Shui Xian who looked at her and both wondered who was there. She already asked everyone at home to not visit, so she couldn''t make a guess about this visitor.

    And it indeed was a surprise when the door was pushed open and Raelle looked at Song Xin''ai.

    "You are...?" Shui Xian wanted to ask.

    "She is my mother," answered Raelle for him. After all, he wasn''t there when Raelle met Song Xin''ai so of course, he didn''t know what Song Xin''ai looked like. But now that he saw her, he was surprised.

    "Oh..." was the only response he could utter at that time.

    "Aren''t youing in?" asked Raelle to Song Xin''ai who still stood at the door.

    "Can I?" asked Song Xin''ai in return.

    "You''re already here," replied Raelle. "Do I look like someone who''d ask you to get lost? Juste in."

    "Oh, thank you," said Song Xin''ai as she stepped inside.

    Song Xin''ai first checked Raelle''splexion and seeing that she didn''t look that bad, she felt a little rxed. Then her eyes wandered off to Shui Xian. The first thing she noticed about him was actually the way he held the cherry pits in his hand and even after seeing her, he didn''t rush to throw them away to save his image.

    This small act left quite an impression on her.

    Only after that, did Song Xin''ai look up at Shui Xian and had to say he was quite a handsome man. Definitely worthy of her daughter''s looks. But then again, she heard this husband was picked by Mu Chenyan and Grandfather Xiang, and she didn''t think those two would choose just anybody for Raelle.

    In fact, she had long heard about how protective Mu Chenyan and Grandfather Xiang were of Raelle and knowing that it came as a surprise to her when she learned that they arranged a marriage for Raelle. Because she thought with their possessiveness, they might want to keep Raelle at home with them. But they really surprised her by arranging a marriage for Raelle when she was just at the peak of her age.

    It was a trend to marry early when they were young but nowadays, everyone is hesitant about settling down early. Even if parents are anxious, the new generation takes their own sweet time before finding a partner to settle down.

    Especially sessful people like Raelle were even more reluctant to marry so early.

    But Raelle turned out to be different. It was only after meeting Raelle, that Song Xin''ai understood the reason why Raelle agreed so easily to marry. It was because she might look like a twenty-five-year-old, she was mentally far ahead of her peers. She was far more mature.

    "Should I leave?" asked Shui Xian when he noticed the silence which seemed to be suffocating for some reason.

    "Why would you leave?" asked Raelle. "Just stay."

    "Oh, okay," replied Shui Xian. He didn''t argue with her since she said, he could stay, he''d just stay right where he was. Not like he wanted to leave Raelle alone here. He sat back down and started peeling grapes for Raelle this time. He had to keep feeding her fruits. That was his mission today. And he was taking it very seriously.

    In fact, the truth was that Mu Chenyan asked him to make Raelle eat more fruits today since she had been eating porridge for two days now. She wanted to change Raelle''s taste and Shui Xian happily took the mission of feeding Raelle with all the fruits.

    "I heard about your mis..." Song Xin''ai licked her lips and rephrased her words. "About your ident. How are you now?"

    Raelle answered, "I''m recovering well. Thank you very much for your concern." She looked at Song Xin''ai with her nk eyes but as she spoke, she startled Song Xin''ai. "You first went to meet Tang Hebe."

    Song Xin''ai stared wide-eyed at her, "How do you know?"

    "Just taking a wild guess," replied Raelle as if it was very normal. "You must be looking for an excuse toe here to see me and knowing that Tang Hebe happened to be with me at the time of the ident, you found yourself an excuse toe here."

    Song Xin''ai exhaled, "Okay, you can stop. It''s getting scarier."

    "Okay," agreed Raelle and didn''t continue. But she didn''t know why it was scarier so she asked, "But why is it getting scarier?"

    "Because you seem to be able to see through me," answered Song Xin''ai. "That''s not a very good feeling."

    "Oh, is it that so?" Raelle nodded her head. "I can understand. I have heard that plenty of times in my life."

    "Then perhaps, you should stop reading people like they are open books," suggested Song Xin''ai. "They feel exposed and when you feel exposed, it puts you in a vulnerable position. And no one likes to be vulnerable. Because people think weakness is a w and no one wants their ws to be known to others."

    "Then Doctor Song, do you think that weakness is a w?" asked Raelle to her.

    Song Xin''ai looked at Raelle with a deep look in her eyes. She was wondering why Raelle asked this question? She didn''t understand but she still answered her honestly, "Weakness isn''t a w. And even if it is, there is no shame in epting your ws. It makes you who you are? Why fight with who you are? Why fight to be what you''re not just to fit in?"

    Raelle didn''t say anything or add anything to her words.

 Chapter 820 Beauty Questions

    Chapter 820 Beauty QuestionsˇˇˇˇListening to Song Xin''ai''s response, Shui Xian''s hands paused and he lifted up his head to look at his supposed mother-inw for a moment before turning his eyes towards his wife. Then he lowered his head again with his lips curled up in an amused smile.

    Before the silence could settle in between them, Song Xin''ai spoke up, "To be honest, I''m struggling right now. I can''t figure out what to say to you."

    "It''s because you didn''t think beforeing here," replied Raelle. "You came to see me on impulse."

    "Not really," replied Song Xin''ai. "I don''t do things on impulse."

    "Maybe not," said Raelle. "But you only thought about whether toe to see me or not. As for the rest, you didn''t think about that. After all, I don''t think we have anything to talk about."

    Song Xin''ai looked at her intently before saying, "You''re wrong. I think even if I start a random discussion, you''ll hold it up."

    "I won''t argue about that statement," said Raelle. "It''s a fact."

    Song Xin''ai lips curled up. She realized how self-assured her daughter was. Good for her. At least, she didn''t look down on herself like her mother once did.

    "I know," told Song Xin''ai. "I heard about how intelligent you are. In fact, I heard your name when you won the top prize in the science fair at the age of 8."

    Raelle was about to put a grape in her mouth but paused to look at Song Xin''ai.

    "And after that, I heard your name repeatedly," continued Song Xin''ai. "At first, I didn''t pay attention butter on, I figured out who you were. I thought you''d join the scientific research like me. But you surprised me when you chose business administration instead."

    Raelle listened to her attentively but didn''t say anything. Of course, her decision to go into business instead of choosing the field of scientific research came as a surprise to plenty of people. Although her grandfather or Mu Chenyan never questioned her about her choice, even they had their doubts about her choices.

    Even her professors had several conversations to inquire about why she was leaving something she was so good at? No one could understand her decision but most people gave up on understanding. Because she was known for her intelligence, most people gave up trying to understand her or her decisions. So, until this day, no one really knew why she picked business.

    "I always wanted to ask you, why didn''t you go into scientific research?" asked Song Xin''ai. "You have quite an achievement in the field of Physics. And even in Chemistry, you made some breakthroughs during the time you''re studying. So, why give up on that?"

    "Although you''re my mother, do you think you have the right to ask me that question?"

    Song Xin''ai went quiet and shook her head, "Sorry, I stepped out of my line. But believe me, I''m not trying to exercise my right as a mother on you. And I never will. I understand my position very well. I''m just a nominal mother and I won''t try to be anything more than that. You can say, I''m just asking that question as someone who dedicated her life to science. So, I was really depressed when I learned we lost a gem like you."

    "I think I''m way too beautiful to be locked up in ab all the time," replied Raelle.

    Shui Xian coughed to mask hisughter. It couldn''t be helped. He just couldn''t help marveling at his wife''s answer. Of course, such an answer could onlye from Raelle Xiang and you won''t be able to argue with that either. Like, look at her! She was really way too beautiful to be locked up in ab. At least, as her husband, he agreed with her statement.

    He was surprised when he noticed that Song Xin''ai didn''t react to her words. It seems he was right. Raelle and his mother were the same kinds of people. At some level. Both were highly intelligent. Both were very honest. And that''s why he didn''t know how to feel sitting here listening to them.

    He was actually taken aback when Song Xin''ai so straightforwardly called herself the nominal mother of Raelle and even said that she didn''t want to be more than that. It seemed his mother-inw understood her position and was at peace with it as well.

    Even more surprising was the fact that even though this was the second time these two were meeting, there was no awkwardness between them. But they weren''t like any other mother and daughter either. He had to ept that with his average IQ, he might not be able to understand these two at all.

    "If you don''t want to answer, don''t," said Song Xin''ai. "Don''t brush me off like that."

    "Was I brushing you off?" asked Raelle. "Didn''t I just speak the truth? Or you disagree with the fact that I''m beautiful?"

    Song Xin''ai smiled at her, "I can''t possibly argue with that. After all, I gave birth to you. If I questioned your beauty, wouldn''t I be looking down on myself?"

    ''Damn!'' Shui Xian cursed in his head. He couldn''t believe what he was hearing right now. It was not just his wife but even his mother-inw who loved to be narcissistic. Wow! What a surprise!

    Raelle looked her up and down with a scrutinizing gaze before nodding her head, "You''re aging beautifully. Just look a little too pale. Must be theck of sun in your life."

    "I heard you''re a workaholic as well," retorted Song Xin''ai. "How much sun can you see with your working hours?"

    "I keep a bnce in my life," replied Raelle. "Besides, I''m the boss here. I can go to the sun whenever I want. No one can stop me."

    Song Xin''ai also nodded in response, "Indeed, you''re the boss. But why are you avoiding my question? Do you really not wanna tell me about it?"

 Chapter 821 [Bonus chapter] Lead To Rome

    Chapter 821 [Bonus chapter] Lead To Romeˇˇˇˇ"I can answer your question," said Raelle. "But why should I?"

    Song Xin''ai went quiet before saying, "Maybe because I''m curious."

    "Then I''m also curious about something, would you like to hear what it is?" asked Raelle.

    Song Xin''ai looked into her eyes but couldn''t guess her thoughts. She was too difficult to read and Song Xin''ai found it baffling. But still nodded her head, "Go ahead. If I can, I''ll give you an answer."

    "Why did you get a divorce?" asked Raelle.

    Not just Song Xin''ai but even Shui Xian was taken aback by that question. They didn''t think Raelle would be asking this. It didn''t make any sense. Why would Raelle be interested in this question when she wasn''t even interested in her parents? Why be curious about their rtionship?

    "I..." Song Xin''ai opened her mouth but couldn''t continue. She really didn''t think she''d be faced with this question.

    "I heard you loved him very much," continued Raelle when she didn''t hear a reply from Song Xin''ai. "So, what changed your mind?"

    "What changed my mind? Who said I stopped loving him?" asked Song Xin''ai. "But love is not enough sometimes." She thought about it for a moment before saying, "I didn''t divorce him because love was no longer there. Or that we grew apart after years of our marriage. Even if we had little time with each other, it was worth it. However, things change. I didn''t give up on our love or our him or our rtionship. I was just giving up on..."

    "On yourself," Raellepleted her words for her. Song Xin''ai looked into her eyes and nodded.

    She suddenly chuckled to herself, "I find it really interesting how the person who seems to understand me is you. I never thought it''d be like this."

    "Maybe your mental state during the time you were pregnant with me affected me," said Raelle nonchntly.

    "Who knows?" retorted Song Xin''ai. "I don''t think we can exin any of this."

    "Now, I''ll tell you why I didn''t be a scientist," said Raelle. "It''s partially the same reason that was behind your divorce."

    Song Xin''ai was stunned for a moment. She didn''t exin anything in her opinion but it seemed Raelle understood everything.

    "Aren''t you very lonely, Dr. Song?" asked Raelle. "Being stuck in theb for months,pletely cut off from the rest of the world. Doesn''t it feel weird?"

    Song Xin''ai closed her eyes and when she opened her eyes, she looked at Raelle, "Are you scared of being lonely?"

    "No," answered Raelle. "I am fine with being alone. But I''m not just living for myself. Very early in my life, I realized that my life isn''t just mine. It belongs to my Opa who came to check up on me every night twice. Just to see if I''m sleeping well. It belongs to my Yanyan who dedicated every minute of her life to making sure she was enough for me. Do you know that I got kidnapped from the science fair because of my intelligence? You must have heard how this genius daughter of yours was very sought after back then. I was too young but I was still targeted. It had no effect on me, but when I saw how scared my Opa and Yanyan were because of that, I understood what I had to do in life."

    She took a pause and added, "I''m not ming them for my choices. At most, they influenced me somewhat to find my direction in life. But it''s a fact that I never had dreams. The only reason I joined those science fairs was that I was good at science. I had never been wrong with my calctions. I did all those experiments just because I could, not because I liked doing it." She continued to look at Song Xin''ai''s face as she went on, "I chose business, not because it was safer. I was never scared of people or what they might do to me because of my brilliance. At one point, I might have been just scared of myself. My own brain and my ideas. You see, I have never been a kind person."

    Song Xin''ai didn''t dare ask her to exin why she was scared of her own self. Actually, she could understand it more than anyone. Being a scientist, she really understood Raelle. But knowing that her daughter got kidnapped just because she shone brighter than her peers really hurt.

    "You made the right choice," said Song Xin''ai. "You''re a very good businesswoman I heard. Unparalleled one. You were meant to shine in this field."

    "My Opa once said that I''ll shine wherever I''ll stand. So it didn''t matter what I do in life, it won''t change the fact that I''m a gem. Yes, he loves to boast about me like that."

    Song Xin''ai nodded, "He was right. There is no doubt that you''d find a way to shine wherever you stand."

    "Dr. Song, do you think you made the right choice with your divorce?" asked Raelle.

    "I don''t know," replied Song Xin''ai. "Maybe not. But we can all make wrong decisions in life. Mine might have been my impulse to get that divorce. However, it''s a choice I made. I don''t think there is a point in questioning my choices now."

    Her eyes inadvertently turned to Shui Xian who had his head down and added, "The only regret in human life is time. We always feel like time was never enough or wondered if we could turn back the time to change our past and make a different choice. But they say all roads lead to Rome. So why do we think that if we made different choices, we won''t regret those choices as well?"

    Raelle was listening to her attentively and Song Xin''ai already noticed that whatever you say, Raelle seemed to give you full attention when she is talking to you. And she not only listened, she understood each and every word of yours and the thoughts behind those words. Who knew talking to her would be sofortable? Even though they had no bond between them? Maybe that''s why she was the special one.

 Chapter 822 Evil & Heartless

    Chapter 822 Evil & HeartlessˇˇˇˇDuring this conversation, Shui Xian felt like he was learning something. He felt like he could listen to their conversation for the whole day. He couldn''t even believe it himself. They both were not only geniuses, but they also had very clear ideas. If one saw them from afar they''d think that thesedies were having a very casual conversation but only he knew how deep and heavy their conversation was.

    Shui Xian actually wasn''t surprised when he learned that Raelle''s life decisions were influenced by the people around her. She was someone who unknowingly even let her likes and dislikes be influenced by the ones close to her.

    But the thing that got to him the most was what Song Xin''ai just said.

    ''The only regret in human life is time. We always feel like time was never enough or wondered if we could turn back the time to change our past and make a different choice. But they say all roads lead to Rome. So why do we think that if we made different choices, we won''t regret those choices as well?''

    He felt like those words were specifically said for him. They were like a wake-up call. He had been feeling really ufortable since he learned about his mother''s past and adding his own foolishness of marrying Tang Hebe into the mix, his feelings couldn''t be described in words. Although Raelle kept him upied, somewhere deep in his mind, he still was thinking about those things.

    Song Xin''ai''s words struck his heart. Yes, he did think about what if he could change the past? What if he could turn back time and make a different decision? Would his mother be alive today? But now he had to re-evaluate the situation. Indeed, how could he guarantee that he wouldn''t have regretted it if he had made a different choice back then?

    "Regrets are a part of a human life," said Raelle. "After all, as humans, we are never satisfied with what we have."

    Song Xin''ai nodded her head in agreement, "Indeed. We are never satisfied." She took a moment before saying, "Thank you for answering my question."

    Raelle hummed but didn''t speak.

    Song Xin''ai was wondering if she should leave but stopped and said, "I have something else to say. I hope you don''t mind?"

    "What is it?"

    "I''m sorry for your loss," said Song Xin''ai. "I know that currently your mind must be desperately trying to reason with you about how you can''t change what happened. The only thing you can do is to look forward and hope for the best. But your heart must be hurting as well. I''m sorry that I couldn''t be the mother whom you could hug and tell what you''re going through. However, I understand that the child must have left a hollowness within you." She looked lost as she went on, "It''s very understandable. Even if you keep the child for one day in your womb, a baby has its way of creating a bond with the parents. This is a difficult time for both of you. But you''ll get through this only with the support of each other. So, I hope you both stay together and be there for each other."

    Shui Xian finally lifted his head and faced her. He cleaned his hand to hold Raelle''s hand and kissed the back of her hand saying, "We are here. We''ll definitely stay here with each other." He looked back at Song Xin''ai and said, "But thank you for your kind words. And thank you for taking time out of your schedule toe here as well. I apologize for not being able to entertain you in this situation."

    "You don''t have to pretend to be so polite," said Song Xin''ai. "I can tell you don''t like me and you have quite some opinion about me as well. You''re really not good at faking it."

    Shui Xian''s smile stiffened at her straightforward words. What did she mean by he was not good at faking it? He had been faking it for so long but the only people who caught him happened to be his wife and now his mother-inw. What the hell? Why did this mother and daughter duo give him the same blow?

    "But it''s only normal that you don''t like me," added Song Xin''ai. "If I was at your ce, I wouldn''t like myself either."

    "You don''t like yourself already," Raelle chimed in.

    Song Xin''ai paused to look at her daughter before sighing helplessly, "Thanks for the reminder."

    "You''re wee!" responded Raelle naturally.

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and stayed quiet.

    "Anyway, what I meant was that since you seem to love Raelle, it''s really normal that you''d dislike this absent mother of hers. I must be like the real ugly monster in your eyes."

    "You''re not ugly though," said Shui Xian. He couldn''t go against his conscience to call her ugly with open eyes. Also, if he did, wouldn''t he be questioning his own wife''s beauty as well? It was better to avoid going down that road.

    "Oh, I didn''t know you judge people from their appearance," stated Song Xin''ai in surprise. "Shui Xian, even devils know how to wear the mask of angels. How can you judge people by their appearance? Don''t be deceived by what you see."

    "If I was so easily deceived, I wouldn''t have married Raelle," retorted Shui Xian. "Besides, I don''t judge people by their looks or the things I hear about them. I already learned my lesson. I have to give everyone a chance beforeing to a conclusion about who they are."

    Song Xin''ai looked at Raelle and said, "It seems I know why you married him. He is flexible and can learn. Good for you." She smiled and looked at the time saying, "I should leave now. I already wasted a lot of your time and my own as well. Take care of yourself."

    Raelle watched her leaving while Shui Xian kept frowning, "Your mother is..."

    "You don''t have to think so much about her," said Raelle.

    "Wifey, she is different than what I had in mind," stated Shui Xian.

    "You thought she was the evil and a heartless mother. So, you are now surprised to see her acting like a normal human being."

    Shui Xian stared at his wife, "Sigh. I don''t even have to say it. You know everything already."

    "Hubby, you should listen to her. People are often not what they look like or what they act like. It''s just us who keep painting them in the colors we like. I never said she is evil. Heartless? I won''tment on that. She isn''t the best mother but she isn''t the worst out there as well."

    "I don''t understand how can you not have any opinions on her for abandoning you?"

    "It''s easier to have opinions," said Raelle. "It''s harder to understand people. And I seem to like understanding people."

    Shui Xian put a grape into her mouth saying, "Yes, yes. You''re the best."

    "I know," she replied.

    "By the way, I''m happy you didn''t be a scientist," said Shui Xian. "How would I even meet you if you really became a scientific researcher?"

    "If we were meant to meet, we''d meet anyway."

    "You think so?" he asked her.

    "I know so," she replied.

    "You really don''t feel regretful?" he inquired.

    "Do you know that I designed a highly destructive weapon when I was young?" asked Raelle. "As I just told her, I got scared of my own brain. If I really continued, I might have done something irreparable. And I didn''t want to harm anyone just because I had crazy ideas."

    "My wife is still the coolest," said Shui Xian. He pecked her lips and grinned.

    "You can..." Before she could continue, he pecked her lips again. "Stop..." and another kissnded on her lips. "I''m not..." And once again those lips closed in and blocked her words.

    Every time she parted her lips, he''d kiss her and not let her continue.

    Raelle pushed him away, "I want to eat grapes."

    "Oh?" Shui Xian put a grape between his teeth and brought it to her lips. Once he was done, he grinned, "I can feed you myself. Isn''t it fun eating together? Husband and wife should share things."

    "What has gotten into you?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian kissed at the corner of her lips and said, "Nothing. I just feel like I need to love you a little more."

    "And where did this bizarre thoughte from?" she asked.

    "You don''t have to know," he replied as he continued to pester her for kisses and hugs. He was clingy already so nothing seemed out of ordinary to Raelle. In fact, she really didn''t realize that Song Xin''ai words got Shui Xian. He was thinking about Song Xin''ai and said that the child left a hollowness within Raelle. And it reminded him of how Raelle had said she felt empty.

    It left a space in his own heart, how could he not understand her feelings?

 Chapter 823 Stomachache!

    Chapter 823 Stomachache!ˇˇˇˇXiang Wai was sweating when she came out of the gym. She went straight to the refrigerator to get some water. While she unscrewed the water bottle and brought it to her lips, she noticed Hyson descending the stairs. He also noticed her and on purpose, gave her a cheeky smile while waving at her.

    "Good morning, Major!"

    "It''s noon already," Xiang Wai pointed out. "Is your day starting now?"

    "I think yours is starting now," replied Hyson. "After all, you''re the one who just finished the morning workout."

    "I''ve been in the gym since 7 o''clock," Xiang Wai defended herself. She usually wouldn''t feel the need to exin herself but this guy really made her... Argh! Whatever! She won''t evenment on him.

    Hyson looked at the time and raised his brow at her, "Major, it''s 11 o''clock now. You''ve been working out for four hours? Have your brain lost some screw? Or you want your body to break down?"

    Xiang Wai rolled her eyes at him, "You don''t have to worry about my body. It''s fine."

    Xiang Weimin lifted his eyes from his iPad once he heard the voices of two ''kids'' bickering again. His curiosity got the best of him and he ran to find them. You know, just to spectate it live! He found it really entertaining when these two ''kids'' butt heads with each other. He had never seen his sister losing so brutally before.

    Even though it wasn''t a physical fight, it didn''t matter.

    Although they all were no match for Hyson''s eloquence, Xiang Weimin still had to say that his dear sister became especially dumb in front of Hyson. How could he miss such a scene?

    "Yes, she is fine," Xiang Weimin spoke up. "She must be running for so long."

    Xiang Wai didn''t deny her brother''s words.

    "Is she nning to run a marathon?" asked Hyson.

    "No," replied Xiang Wai. "Why would I take part in a marathon?"

    "Right? I shouldn''t expect you to do anything for a good cause," retorted Hyson.

    "You!" She pointed at Hyson in frustration. "Why are you so thorny?"

    "Because I look like a rose," was Hyson''s answer. "Look at me, don''t I look like a rose? I even smell like one!"

    "You? A rose?" Xiang Wai looked him up and down. "Do you have some misunderstanding about yourself?"

    "Not at all," replied Hyson. "But you, on the other hand, need to see an ophthalmologist. Your eyes are giving up on you. If you can''t even recognize this beautiful rose, then there is definitely something wrong with your eyes."

    "So, you can''t be wrong, huh?"

    Hyson nodded his head, "My Ellie says, if someone tells me I''m wrong, I should bring that person to her. And she''ll prove to me that I''m always right! Even when I''m wrong, I''m right! No arguments allowed."

    Xiang Wai was once again speechless. Not just at Hyson but also thinking about her own sister who was actually willing to go so far for her best friend.

    "By the way, since you ran so much, something must be on your mind?" asked Hyson.

    Xiang Wai was taken aback at how easily he caught on. Xiang Weimin only gave Hyson a cursory nce and the corners of his lips arched up. Xiang Weimin felt like Hyson should have been a police officer or something. Seriously, this guy could have seen through the liars in a second. He was just that good at it.

    "It must be how to turn down the blind date you just agreed tost night, right?" added Hyson making Xiang Wai''s eyes widen even more.

    "How do you know that?" she uttered in shock.

    Hyson gave her a mysterious look saying, "I even know that you just agreed to that blind datest night on the spur of the moment. But after sleeping it off, you realized how dumb you were acting. Just to piss off your ex, you actually decided to jump into another hole. Then you wondered if it was worth it. And after running for four hours, did youe up with a good excuse?" He raised his brow at her, "You have to offer me at least a good excuse or I won''t let you escape the blind date."

    Xiang Wai hid behind her brother, "Ge, that guy is scary!"

    "Really? I think he is pretty cute," was Xiang Weimin''s amused response. "Oh, I should say he is right. He is just like a rose. Gorgeous, intoxicating, and a marvel!"

    Xiang Wai looked at her brother, "Whose side are you on?"

    "Yours," he replied.

    "I don''t believe you," said Xiang Wai. Then she turned to look at Hyson who had folded his arms before his chest and looked like he was still waiting for her answer and won''t leave this matter unless she really gave him a good excuse. "I... I have a stomachache!" She got confident as she spoke, "Yes, I ate too much so I have a stomachache."

    "What are you, five? I didn''t even use that excuse to avoid school when I was afraid of the bullies. How can you be so childish to use that excuse on me? Aren''t you in special forces? How can you be so bad at it?" Hyson gave her a look of disgust. "Even though Ellie doesn''t lie, even she can make up a better story if I ask her to do so. Want to try?"

    Xiang Wai stared at him and nodded, "Fine! Let''s see if she can reallye up with a better excuse. How can you look down at me like this? Raelle doesn''t even lie! I don''t believe she cane up with something better than this."

    Hyson gave her another mysterious smile. How should he tell Major that Raelle had actually been to like 50 blind dates and she managed to get what she wanted every single time! Tsk. Major was really not good at this. He suddenly felt a little bad for her brain cells that had to live with her.

 Chapter 824 Smartest Bean

    Chapter 824 Smartest Beanˇˇˇˇ*Ring*

    Shui Xian was surprised to see that Hyson was calling on Raelle''s phone once again. Didn''t they chat in the morning? Did something happen? He hurriedly gave the phone to Raelle, "Here, Fai is looking for you again."

    Raelle took the phone and put it on speaker before she asked, "What is it now?"

    Hyson also put his phone on speaker and indicated to both Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai to stay silent. Then he spoke up, "Ellie, let''s suppose that you have to go on a blind date."

    "I have had enough of that," came Raelle''s response. "I''m already married now."

    "I said, let''s suppose," repeated Hyson.

    "Even if it''s just supposed, I still don''t want to," said Raelle. "That''s like cheating on my spouse and I''m a very loyal person."

    Hyson facepalmed himself, "I forgot for a moment that that''s not how one canmunicate with you. Let''s start again." He took a deep breath and said, "Let''s say I have to go on a blind date. But I don''t want to go. I don''t want to hurt someone''s feelings by refusing to go since I already agreed. So, what excuse can be used?"

    "You can just go to the blind date," replied Raelle. "Who said you have to make it work? Isn''t the point to show up? It''s not like going for coffee or dinner will make you invest feelings into it. Treat it as dinner with a new friend and get over it."

    Hyson looked at Xiang Wai who was frowning to herself. She lowered her voice and said, "That''s not an excuse. That''s a solution."

    Hyson rolled his eyes at her, covered the speaker of the phone, and said, "People like her don''t need temporary excuses! She is always after permanent solutions. Temporary things won''t solve things for you. They''ll only dy the consequences."

    "What are you mumbling?" asked Raelle. "And by the way, since you want to talk about Xiang Wai, why are you using yourself? Do you think I don''t understand?"

    Hyson hehe-ed once he heard that and said, "Anyway, I just wanted to prove a point to someone who said she has a stomachache!"

    "Oh, then doesn''t she know that the blind date is arranged for the day after tomorrow and it''s not today? She just used up her bad excuse on a wrong day. What a pity! Even Cloe had better excuses when people asked her to get into a rtionship."

    Hyson pursed his lips while Xiang Wai pouted. Even her own sister was attacking her now. How could she be so pitiful?

    "Ellie, I''ll talk to youter," said Hyson and hung up the call. Then he faced Xiang Wai and said, "Major, your intelligence is... You''re really not the smartest bean in the Xiang family."

    "Hey! Do you have to attack my intelligence as well?"

    "I do!" replied Hyson. "Save your excuses. The blind date isn''t even today. Give yourself less stress. Anyway, it won''t solve your problem."

    "Why are you doing this to me?" asked Xiang Wai. "You already know I don''t want to go on a blind date."

    "Yes, but you agreed to go yourself," said Hyson. "I can call off the blind date but how else will I get to teach you that one should always be ready for consequences when they speak. If you have the guts to say it, then you''ll have to keep your words till the end. Or else, who will trust your words?"

    He sighed and left her standing there in a daze with Xiang Weimin who had a thoughtful look on his face.

    "He is just a kid, does he have to be so calctive?"

    "He is just reminding you of things you forget when you get emotional," replied Xiang Weimin. "He is right. Your emotions get the best of you and that''s why you agreed to the blind datest night as well. Even he knows that. He is just telling you to remember that you can eat whatever but you can''t always say whatever. You have to weigh your words before anything or you might find it difficult to act upon your words."

    "Ge, I really think you''ve changed. You are my brother. Take my side even if I''m unreasonable. You have always been by my side."

    Xiang Weimin rubbed her head, "I''m still by your side. No matter how unreasonable you behave. I''m on your side. Just because I said something to agree with him, doesn''t mean I''m standing against you. You''re still my sister and I''m still here to protect you."

    Xiang Wai was silent for a long time before saying, "Ge, how do you think this guy grew up? Why is he like this?"

    "His IQ and EQ, both are impable," said Xiang Weimin. "That''s the reason why he manages to make everyone fall for him. I heard from Aunt Yan that when he was a kid, he liked to act like an adult. But now that he grew up, he likes to act like a kid. Do you understand what it means?"

    "What does it mean?" she asked.

    "It means when he was a kid, his circumstances and situation forced him to grow up and be mature," answered Xiang Weimin. "So, now that he grew up and found people who are willing to love his inner child, he loves to act like one. But acting like a child, won''t change the fact that he matured too early in life. At least, emotionally, he had been through a lot worse than us."

    "Why do you say that?"

    "Our parents divorced but we never had any difficulties in life. We never had to see our parents struggling to make our wishese true. We never had to wonder if we can buy this or that. We had all the freedom in life. He... He understood too much too soon in life." Xiang Weimin sighed to himself as he told all this to his sister. He might have been the most silent person in the house these days, but he had noticed the rtionship between Hyson and his mother. That was enough to make Xiang Weimin understand a lot about Hyson.

 Chapter 825 Besties

    Chapter 825 Bestiesˇˇˇˇ"By the way, I forgot to tell you," said Xiang Wai. "I just got a call from mom."

    Xiang Weimin looked at her inquisitively.

    "She is calling us out for lunch," told Xiang Wai. "Do you want to go?"

    "Are you going?" asked Xiang Weimin in return instead of answering her question.

    "I am," replied Xiang Wai.

    Xiang Weimin nodded his head, "I''lle with you."

    Xiang Wai smiled knowingly at him. Of course, she knew he''de if she was going. He''d only hesitate if he had to meet their mother on his own. But as her best brother, he''d follow her anywhere without any hesitation.

    "Then I''m gonna take a shower and change," said Xiang Wai. "I''ll see you in fifteen minutes. Then we''ll go together."

    Xiang Weimin nodded his head. Then he went back to his iPad and continued to look through the designs he received from the research center.

    "Your aunt isn''t back yet?"

    Xiang Weimin didn''t lift his eyes as he replied to his father''s question, "Nope. Not yet." Suddenly, he put down the iPad and looked straight at his father, "Dad, whom did she go to meet? It''s been a while and she didn''t even take you along."

    Xiang Hulin gave a look to his son, "What do you mean that she didn''t take me with her? Am I her bodyguard? She went on a date with her friend. Why do I have to join her?"

    "That''s also true," said Xiang Weimin. "But really, who did she go to meet? Is it someone important?"

    Xiang Hulin shook his head at his son, "Son, just keep in mind that all your aunt''s friends are important. I can''t even list down all the people she knows."

    "At least, she had always been more popr than you."

    "You don''t have to taunt your own father," retorted Xiang Hulin. "It''s not like your friends can circle around the globe."

    Xiang Weimin mentally rolled his eyes.

    "Ge, I''m done. Let''s go, I''ll be driving."

    Xiang Hulin looked up at his daughter and asked, "You both are going somewhere?"

    Xiang Wai went silent while Xiang Weimin replied to him, "Mom called us out for lunch."

    Xiang Hulin''s brow jumped up slightly and he nodded to himself.

    "Do you want to join us, dad?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    Xiang Hulin gave his son a look, "And why would I want to go out on lunch with my ex-wife?"

    "Maybe because she is still the mother of your children," suggested Xiang Weimin.

    Xiang Hulin pursed his lips and shook his head saying, "Have fun." He didn''t say anything and left to look for his own father to spend time with. He didn''t expect Song Xin''ai to show up so soon. He just told herst night about the hospital and today she showed up already. That was fast considering her track record. He was actually a little curious to know how her meeting with Raelle went but this curiosity wasn''t enough for him to join her over lunch. It was better for him to just curb this curiosity instead.

    Xiang Wai pped her brother''s arm, "Ge, why did you tell that to dad? And you''re even teasing him?"

    "When did I?" retorted Xiang Weimin nonchntly. "Okay, don''t pay attention to him. I told you even when we were young. You have to stop paying attention to what is going on between your parents. Pay attention to your own life. Live however you want and stay happy. No matter what kind of a rtionship we all share, it''s a fact that everyone wants you to stay healthy and happy."

    "I know," replied Xiang Wai.

    It took them close to an hour to reach the restaurant. They entered the private room and found Song Xin''ai already waiting inside. She was leisurely sipping on tea as she looked at the garden through the window. Hearing the sound of the sliding door, she looked over and smiled at them.

    "You''re here." Song Xin''ai put down the tea and sat straight. "Take a seat." She said gesturing towards the chairs before her.

    Once they sat down, she added, "I''ve already ordered. The food will be served in a while." Then she looked at Xiang Weimin and asked, "How are you recovering, son? Is everything alright? What about the medicine I gave youst time?"

    "It was quite effective," answered Xiang Weimin. "Even the doctor was surprised to see my legs recovering so well. Thank you."

    Song Xin''ai smiled at him, "As long as you''re fine now." She took a pause and went on, "Don''t worry, it won''t take you long to fly back into the sky."

    Xiang Weimin hummed in response.

    Xiang Wai took a sip of the water and asked, "By the way, howe you thought about having lunch with us? I thought you''d be stuck in theb for another six months at least."

    "I had to take a short break," answered Song Xin''ai. "I heard about Raelle''s ident so I went to see her."

    Xiang Wai almost spurted out of the water when she heard, "You went to see Raelle? And she didn''t do anything to you?"

    Song Xin''ai was amused by Xiang Wai''s reaction. "She isn''t as emotionally charged as you are."

    Xiang Wai nodded to herself, "True. She is emotionally detached like you."

    "Like me?" repeated Song Xin''ai in a soft voice. "Is that so?" Her eyes lowered as she looked thoughtful. In fact, she didn''t think Raelle was like her. Maybe their intelligence was. But neither Raelle was emotionally detached nor was she. It''s just that they both gave off the same impression.

    After all, Song Xin''ai learned to bury her emotions at a young age, and Raelle never truly understood emotions.

    "She really didn''t say anything to you?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    Song Xin''ai looked at her son and answered, "She asked why I got a divorce."

    Both Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin were startled to hear that. Even they never asked that question. But clearly, Raelle''s thought process was different so she could ask anything and everything. Who would stop her? Strangely, people didn''t even mind when she asked such ufortable questions to them.

    "What did you answer?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "I didn''t seem to give her an answer," replied Song Xin''ai. "She understood it on her own. In fact, it''s a surprise that she understands my thoughts better than you two."

    "What''s the point? Even if I''m not smart, you''re stuck with me. After all, you chose to abandon Raelle on your own," responded Xiang Wai. Xiang Weimin held her hand under the table to stop her from continuing. Xiang Wai cleared her throat, "I mean, people don''t even know she is your daughter."

    Song Xin''ai continued to smile as she said, "You''re right. I''m just a nominal mother. It really doesn''t matter. But I only mentioned it because it''s the first time someone is willing to not only understand me but also, pay attention to me. She seems to be on the wavelength as me. It''s refreshing."

    "She almost made Ge cry when they first met," said Xiang Wai. "What about you?"

    "This was our second meeting but at our first meeting, she indeed made me want to bawl my eyes out," replied Song Xin''ai honestly.

    "I knew it!" Xiang Wai pped her hands. "She really is talented. She can make such strong people cry. But why didn''t she do it with me."

    "Maybe you weren''t challenging enough," said Xiang Weimin. "So, she took pity on you and let you go."

    "Ge! Is it okay for you to insult me like this?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "I''m just stating facts. If Raelle had chosen to speak with you as she did with us, she''d have made you cry for a week. Your mental strength isn''t that strong, to begin with. She is way too rational and she already knows you''re emotional. Let me make it clear to you, that it''s easier to manipte emotions. Especially for someone like her who makes her brain really work for her."

    "Your brother is right," agreed Song Xin''ai. "You should be d she went easy on you."

    "So what if she went easy? She still isn''t willing to be my sister," said Xiang Wai with a sigh.

    "That might be difficult," said Song Xin''ai. "But you can try your best. Who knows your sincerity might move her."

    "I heard they say she has a heart of stone. You really think, I can move that stone with sincerity?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "She doesn''t have a heart of stone," said Song Xin''ai. "She is just too practical. Once upon a time, you chose to keep your distance from her. At that time, she might have a need for a sister in her family but now, she haspleted her family and feels like there is no need to add more people into it."

    "You both would have been very close if our family situation was different,"mented Xiang Weimin. He could see it clearly. Song Xin''ai and Raelle would have really been a pair of mother and daughter besties with their understanding of each other. But now, that was impossible.

 Chapter 826 Born Queen

    Chapter 826 Born QueenˇˇˇˇWhen the food was served, Song Xin''ai, clipped a piece of braised chicken for Xiang Weimin, "Son, eat more." Then she picked some Mapo Tofu for Xiang Wai and added, "You too, Violet."

    Xiang Wai looked at the Mapo Tofu she picked for her and went momentarily silent. It was actually one of her favorite dishes. In fact, she already noticed that most of the dishes on the table were favorites of her and Xiang Weimin. But she couldn''t believe it for a moment. After all, in her impression, their mother was too estranged and knew nothing about them.

    But perhaps, after meeting Raelle, she had a new understanding of her mother. It wasn''t that her mother didn''t care about them. It''s just that she had her own way of showing her concern. Just like she purposely called them for her birthday just so she could give the recovery medicine to Xiang Weimin. Xiang Wai might not have noticed this if she had been stuck in her own thoughts like before.

    However, now because of Raelle and Hyson, she was learning to pay attention to smaller details that she always overlooked.

    She actually couldn''t believe that there was no awkwardness between the three of them when they were chatting earlier. She had never seemed to have such afortable talk with her mother. Because she was always high on emotions and wanted to hurt her mother.

    "Violet? Why aren''t you eating? Did your taste change?"

    Xiang Wai shook her head, "No, it''s still the same." She looked up at her mother, "Mom, can you not call me Violet? I don''t like that name."

    Song Xin''ai was taken aback. This was the first time she was hearing about this. She didn''t respond for a moment. She licked her lips and put down her chopsticks. She picked up the ss of water and slowly took a sip. She seemed lost as her finger traced the rim of the ss. Her lips parted and she told her, "Violets were the first flower your father gave to me."

    Xiang Wai''s eyes widened when she heard that. She was dumbfounded. "What?"

    Song Xin''ai met her gaze and nodded her head, "He picked them up from his mother''s garden. They were very beautiful. And held a very special meaning to us. That''s why I named you Violet. You''re our eldest daughter, you''re always very special to us."

    "Why didn''t you tell me that?"

    "You never asked," replied Song Xin''ai. "Oh, and you never mentioned that you don''t like me calling you Violet. If you had, I wouldn''t do it. It''s my mistake for not noticing. I''m sorry."

    "I didn''t like you calling me Violet because I thought there was no meaning behind the name," said Xiang Wai.

    Song Xin''ai went silent and so did Xiang Wai. There had been a very long silence long existing between the mother and daughter. But for the first time, they both realized how this silence was actually hiding too much between them. Since both of them didn''t know how to talk, the distance between them grew bigger and bigger with time.

    Song Xin''ai turned to Xiang Weimin who was eating in silence as if their situation had nothing to do with him. She asked him straightforwardly, "Son, do you also have some misunderstandings about your mother? Is that why you avoid meeting me?"

    "I have no misunderstanding," replied Xiang Weimin calmly. "I just don''t like your family. They always want to shove a girl next to me. So, I avoid you. If we are close, they''d try to use you to get to me. Now that we look like we don''t have a good rtionship, they can''t force you with filial piety. After all, if you''re the one talking about blind dates, I''d have to give in. No matter what kind of a rtionship we have, you''re my mother."

    Song Xin''ai looked at her son''s calm face as he continued to eat and felt like she was seeing an image of her ex-husband. Indeed, their son was really like his father.

    "You don''t have to worry about that," assured Song Xin''ai. "I''ll never let any of them interfere in your personal life. Your freedom is yours. I won''t even allow myself to take that freedom from you." She looked at Xiang Wai and added, "The same goes for you, Wai. No matter what you want to do, I''ll be here to support you."

    "Your family already interfered though," muttered Xiang Weimin to himself.

    "What did you say, Ge?"

    "Nothing," Xiang Weimin shook his head and didn''t exin himself. It''s been years, he didn''t feel like mentioning it to them right now. Especially since this felt like the mostfortable meal they had shared in years. It was already rare for any of them to gather because of the nature of their work. So, this was indeed a rare asion.

    "Did your grandfather forgive your father?" asked Song Xin''ai.

    "Seems like it," answered Xiang Wai.

    Song Xin''ai nodded her head and smiled in relief, "Good for him." She took a pause and added, "How is your rtionship with Chenchen? I mean, Chenyan?"

    "Aunt is a finedy!"mented Xiang Wai.

    Song Xin''ai nodded her head, "That she sure is."

    "You agree?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "I can never disagree with that," replied Song Xin''ai. "Let me tell you something, when I met her for the first time, I called her the Princess of the Xiang family. Do you know how she replied?"

    "How?" Xiang Wai was really curious to know.

    "She said, ''You can''t call me a Princess! I''m not looking for a Prince. I''m a born Queen! I rule!''" Song Xin''ai chuckled at the memory and Xiang Wai was surprised. "Chenyan hated being treated as a Princess. She''ll never let anyone call her that. But then again, she was really a Queen. And she still is."

    "Aunt had been really frivolous all her life," remarked Xiang Wai.

    "No, she is a very serious person," said Song Xin''ai.

 Chapter 827 [Bonus chapter] Nieces

    Chapter 827 [Bonus chapter] NiecesˇˇˇˇIn a private room, a woman was sitting on a chair with a careless look on her face. But her eyes were actually following the 8 people who stood guard around her. For the first time, in her life, she felt like she was a prisoner.

    "I''m already here, do you think I''ll run away?" she asked.

    The wooden sliding door opened and the charming Mu Chenyan entered saying, "What can I say? I don''t seem to trust you very much."

    The woman looked at Mu Chenyan and raised her brows in amusement, "Cheni, you''re breaking my heart now."

    "I have always been a heartbreaker," replied Mu Chenyan looking like a hooligan.

    The woman gaped at her, "That''s my line!"

    "Did you get a patent for it?" retorted Mu Chenyan.

    "Meanie!"

    The woman stood up and hugged Mu Chenyan who hugged her back and smiled widely. "Jiejie, how are you?"

    "I''d have been better if you didn''t have all these people keeping an eye on me for the past two days," retorted the woman as she rolled her eyes. "Did you really think I''d run away? I promised I''ll meet you before going back."

    "I really can''t trust you," said Mu Chenyan. "You have a bad record."

    "Excuse me! Are you sure you''re not confusing yourself with me? You''re the one with the bad record!"

    "No, I''m the one with the bad reputation!" was Mu Chenyan''s response. "Let me look at you. How much have you changed in these years?"

    The other woman frowned, "We just met two years ago. How much can I change?"

    "People can change in minutes," replied Mu Chenyan.

    "Oh, just shut up already!"

    Mu Chenyan chuckled and nodded, "Okay! How should I address you? Director Su? Su Feifei? Feifei? Su Jiejie?"

    "When did you get so particr about that?" asked the woman named Su Feifei.

    Mu Chenyan looked smiled and looked at the guards in the room and waved them off. When only the two of them were left inside the private room, Su Feifei spoke up, "If you''re gonna call me out, at least invite me for drinks. Did you call me here for tea? Do I look that cultured to you? If I was so cultured, my mother could have ascended to heaven!"

    Mu Chenyan pulled her to sit down and said, "I called you here for a meal. The food here is good. I suggested youe home and I''ll cook for you myself. But you didn''t agree."

    "You want me to enter your territory? That''s like entering a wolf''s den. I''m not a foolishmb. What if you poisoned me? If I died in your territory, no one will even find my bones!"

    Mu Chenyan tsked at that and said, "Jiejie, when did you get so dramatic?"

    "What do you mean by dramatic?" retorted Su Feifei. "I''m already surprised that someone came alive out of your den."

    "Who did?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "That Ruan Meilin," replied Su Feifei. "I heard you sent her to thew enforcement. Why? You aren''t nning on being the executioner yourself?"

    Mu Chenyan shook her head, "I wanted to. But my Elle won''t let me do so."

    "Your niece?" asked Su Feifei. "Sigh. I never thought people like us would actually be weak before our nieces. I thought I was almighty when I was young. But then my sisters had to give birth to my two nieces. And the rest is history."

    "You''re all almighty because your sisters were good to you," said Mu Chenyan.

    "That''s the biggest lie ever!" responded Su Feifei. "Let me tell you, if I did something wrong, it''d be my sisters who''d throw me under the bus first before my parents could. How would they know how to take care of their young sister? It''s my luck that those heartless sisters of mine found me the world''s best brothers-inw. After they married my brothers-inw, I was in heaven. I never had to worry about anything since I found two protective brothers-inw."

    "Indeed, you really got lucky with your brothers-inw," agreed Mu Chenyan.

    "Of course, I did!"

    "Then shouldn''t you be grateful to your sisters for finding such good husbands?"

    "No way!" retorted Su Feifei.

    Mu Chenyanughed out, "You even love your nieces more than your sisters."

    "That can''t be helped," replied Su Feifei.

    "Jie, thank you for your help this time," said Mu Chenyan. "That''s why I wanted to treat you to this meal. Although I really think this isn''t enough."

    Su Feifei waved her hand, "Don''t be so formal with me. Is our rtionship where we have to say thanks for everything? It was just providing you with a dose of the drug. Besides, that Ruan Meilin dared to touch your niece. Your niece is my niece. How can we let her hurt our people?"

    "You don''t have to make it so casual," said Mu Chenyan. "I know how important that drug is. Besides, your organization isn''t even willing to cooperate with the military. But you still took out the drug for me. What if I stole the form?"

    "We wouldn''t be friends if we didn''t even have that much trust between us," replied Su Feifei. "Besides, it really was easy to get that drug for you. All I had to tell my brother-inw was that we wanted to teach a delusional woman a lesson for hurting our person. He agreed."

    "When did Ximen Ge be so easy to talk to?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Su Feifei chuckled, "He was always easy to talk to." She took a pause and asked, "How is Raelle? Is she okay now?"

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips, "She had a miscarriage. I really can''t figure out how she is."

    Su Feifei''s expression turned very serious when she heard, "I can understand. It must not be easy. I have seen what losing a child can do to people. So, take care of her."

    Mu Chenyan gave her a solemn nod, "Don''t worry. I''ll take care of her. She is my life. How can I not take care of her?"

 Chapter 828 Try The Fish

    Chapter 828 Try The Fishˇˇˇˇ"...okay, so add one sweet duck in the order and saurekraut fish. Mmm... And Baijiu!"

    Mu Chenyan stared at the woman who was ordering the food and felt a headacheing on. "Jie, it''s too early for Baijiu."

    "Who said that?" retorted Su Feifei. "It''s never too early for some Baijiu!"

    "Do you wish to get drunk right now?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "Rx. I''m Su Feifei. I don''t get drunk so easily," replied Su Feifei as she even patted her chest to assure Mu Chenyan.

    Mu Chenyan only sighed to herself but didn''t say anything about her ordering alcohol at this time. She had a lot of reasons but she knew none could convince Su Feifei who had always loved drinking. The only good thing was that she always knew her limit so until this day, Mu Chenyan had never seen her drunk.

    As Su Feifei was done cing the order, she was getting ready to talk to Mu Chenyan when her phone rang. She held it to cancel the call but once she saw the caller id, she stopped. She smiled at Mu Chenyan, "I have to take this one."

    "I don''t mind," said Mu Chenyan generously.

    Su Feifei nodded and picked up the call. She didn''t even move away showing that there was no need to keep the content of the call a secret from Mu Chenyan. And even if it was that important call, Su Feifei would still not avoid Mu Chenyan. She definitely trusted her.

    "Grandaunt, where are you?"

    Su Feifei''s eyes brightened as she answered, "Grandaunt is in Kia City. What''s up, my little Rowan?"

    "Rowan is calling you for a very important matter," came the answer from the other side.

    "Oh? What''s so important?"

    "It''s Rowan''s birthday next week."

    "How can grandaunt forget Rowan''s birthday?"

    "I know you remember but Rowan still wanted to call you and invite you personally."

    "Wow! I feel so honored to be invited personally by the birthday boy."

    Mu Chenyan perched her elbow on the tabletop and had her face supported by the heel of her hand as she continued to listen to this interaction between Su Feifei and the son of her niece. The boy''s voice was young but very bright. He sounded like an adorable kid.

    It suddenly reminded Mu Chenyan that she almost became a grandaunt as well. Perhaps, her Ellie would have also given birth to an adorable little boy who would call her grandaunt. But... Destiny had other ns in store for all of them and who can ever argue with destiny?

    She mentally pped herself to snap out of these thoughts but it didn''t help much. It only made her want to drag that Ruan Meilin out of the prison and unleash her inner monster!

    When Su Feifei hung up the call, she noticed Mu Chenyan''s lost expressions. She didn''t have to think to know what made Mu Chenyan look like that. "Cheni!" Mu Chenyan didn''t react to her call. Su Feifei tapped on the table and Mu Chenyan was snapped back to reality. "Are you back fromnd?"

    "I never went tond," was Mu Chenyan''s response. Thinking of something, she asked, "How old is he?"

    "He is turning nine," answered Su Feifei. "For this year, he arranged everything for his birthday. During summer vacations, he auditioned for a role of a child actor and won it. He did pretty well and got so manypliments for his performance. And that''s why he wanted to organize his birthday party himself this year."

    "He wants to be an actor?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Su Feifei shrugged, "How should I exin this? One day, he watched a performance of an actress and fell in love with her. Since then, he wanted to be an actor. His parents gave him permission to have fun. But he is very disciplined in his life. He said, he''ll only act during his summer vacations or if the role is small, he''ll take it during winter vacations. Apart from that, he''ll give all his attention to his studies and being a kid."

    "He has to pay attention to being a kid?" asked Mu Chenyan curiously.

    "My niece, Xiu wants her son to enjoy his childhood. She doesn''t want him to grow up too soon."

    Mu Chenyan nodded in understanding.

    "Actually, let me tell you a secret. Rowan is actually very intelligent and clever for his age. He only likes to act like a kid before his family. For others, he''ll put on airs and act all mature. It''s kinda amusing." Suddenly, she tsked. "Oh, I miss him now. I haven''t seen him for thest two months."

    "Jie, I just realized, you''re old now," remarked Mu Chenyan.

    "Hey! What do you mean by that?" red Su Feifei.

    "Aren''t you?" asked Mu Chenyan. "You''re already a grandaunt! Your grandnephew is already nine years old now. Doesn''t that make you quite old?" She seemed to be enjoying herself way too much right now.

    Su Feifei pointed at her, "You! You and I aren''t that far apart in age. My sisters and I had a big age difference! How is it my fault that even my nieces have kids now?"

    Mu Chenyan chuckled, "You should think about it. You already have a grandnephew and a grandniece but you''re still very single."

    "Thanks for the reminder," Su Feifei snickered. "Thisment should note from you at the very least. After all, you''re very still single as well."

    "At least, I tried the fish in the sea. You never even tasted the fish."

    Su Feifei gave her a look, "You should stop already."

    Mu Chenyanughed at her and nodded her head. "Okay, I''ll stop now." Taking a moment, she asked, "Jie, do you want to try the fish?"

    "You just said you''re gonna stop," Su Feifei was exasperated by Mu Chenyan now.

    Mu Chenyan sat straight and lost the yfulness. She looked dead serious as she said, "What if I''m not joking this time?"

 Chapter 829 [Bonus chapter] Disoriented

    Chapter 829 [Bonus chapter] DisorientedˇˇˇˇSu Feifei frowned. She could tell that Mu Chenyan was serious but it left her momentarily lost. She didn''t understand how to react at that moment.

    Fortunately, the door opened and the dishes were served to give some more time to Su Feifei to process Mu Chenyan''s words.

    Once the servers left, the first thing Su Feifei did was pour herself some Baijiu and gulped it down. It tingled her senses and she felt like she could think again.

    "What are you trying to say?" asked Su Feifei.

    Mu Chenyan had been paying attention to Su Feifei all this while. She looked into her eyes and exined, "I mean do you wanna go out on a blind date with my Ge?"

    Su Feifei almost fell from the chair when she heard Mu Chenyan''s straightforward words. She had to pour some more Baijiu and gulp it down once again. One ss turned into two and then it moved to three. Before she could pour it again, Mu Chenyan ced her hand on her ss to cover it.

    "Jie, drinking won''t help you."

    Su Feifei put down the bottle of Baijiu and slumped back, "You''re right. This isn''t helping." She took a deep breath and asked, "When you say your Ge, you''re talking about General Xiang Hulin?"

    "I only have one Ge," answered Mu Chenyan.

    Su Feifei looked up at her, "Have you lost your mind?"

    "I have not," replied Mu Chenyan. "Didn''t you once say to me that you''d ask my brother out if he wasn''t already dating Song Xin''ai?"

    Su Feifeiughed at that, "That was a joke."

    "It was not," said Mu Chenyan with certainty.

    "It was," insisted Su Feifei. "I wasn''t alone. There were others who said the same too. After all, your brother was pretty famous."

    "I''m talking about you, not about others," said Mu Chenyan. "I don''t see why you''re reacting like this. You never wanted to have kids. Isn''t it good enough that my brother already has three kids who are old enough to build their own families?"

    "Exactly! His kids are already old now. One of them is even married," reminded Su Feifei. "How can you think about matchmaking him at this point?"

    "Because I don''t want him to be lonely anymore," answered Mu Chenyan. "I want someone to be there for him and with him. He had been divorced for decades. He is single, you''re single. I don''t see a problem with this arrangement. Guess what, you''ll also get the best sister-inw like me as an added bonus."

    "Shut up!" said Su Feifei.

    "Jie..."

    "Stop it!"

    "Think about it," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Eat!"

    "Why don''t you tell me what''s on your mind first?"

    "I said, eat!" Su Feifei put some fish into Mu Chenyan''s bowl with her chopsticks and added, "Let''s stop here for now."

    "Oh..." Although Mu Chenyan felt it was a shame, she still shut up and concentrated on eating.

    Su Feifei silently ate before she thought of something and said, "I almost forgot about it." She put down her chopsticks and picked up her phone. Unlocking the phone, she opened the photo gallery and clicked on a picture before sliding her phone towards Mu Chenyan, "That''s you, right?"

    Mu Chenyan''s brows furrowed up and she looked at her phone which left her stunned for a moment. The picture was of a painting. Although only the side of her face was seen, anyone who personally knew Mu Chenyan when she was a teenager would be able to recognize her instantly. Especially since the painter had painted a very single feature of hers so vividly that she appeared to be alive in that painting. In that very moment.

    "So?" asked Su Feifei.

    Mu Chenyan looked up at her, "Jie, where is this from?"

    "First, you tell me, that is you?"

    "You already can tell that," answered Mu Chenyan. "You have known me from childhood. And I believe I am fourteen in that painting. Where did you see it? Who painted it? Why am I there?"

    "I think you have a secret admirer," said Su Feifei.

    "I have a lot of secret admirers," was Mu Chenyan''s reply.

    "Narcissist!"

    "No, I''m just stating facts," replied Mu Chenyan. "Even if I wasn''t a delicate and weak little beauty. I had my charms. I definitely had a lot of secret admirers. Or else, I won''t get so many love letters in school."

    "Half of those came from girls," reminded Su Feifei. "After all, you fit perfectly into a girls'' fantasy of a knight." She definitely didn''t fit into a guy''s fantasy where they''d be the hero protecting the damsel.

    Mu Chenyan cleared her throat and said, "Still, secret admirers are secret admirers. Whether girls or guys. What does it matter? The point is I had many secret admirers."

    "I saw it at an exhibition," answered Su Feifei. "I won''t give you any more details. I''ll just send you the location of the gallery and the pass. You go and check it out yourself. Do let me know which secret admirer it is."

    "Isn''t your own life exciting enough? Why are you looking for thrill through my life?"

    "I can''t help it," Su Feifei shrugged her shoulders.

    Both of them went silent with each having their own thoughts. Mu Chenyan''s proposal of matchmaking actually made Su Feifei''s thoughts a bit disoriented. It wasn''t the first time that someone had put forth such a suggestion. She also had plenty of people who wanted her to leave her singlehood but this time it was different.

    After all, Xiang Hulin could be considered her teenage crush. She never thought in her middle age, that she''d hear someone say she could go on a date with him.

    As for Mu Chenyan, usually, she wouldn''t pay attention to such things. But this painting seemed to be reminding her of something. She just couldn''t pinpoint what exactly was it? It was all blurred up in her mind. And that''s why she was genuinely curious about finding out the person behind this painting.

 Chapter 830 My Eyes Sting

    Chapter 830 My Eyes Stingˇˇˇˇ"Shouldn''t you be at the office?"

    Cloe closed the door behind her and smiled at her boss. "I need your signature."

    "Can''t you even handle that much?"

    Cloe looked at Shui Xian, "I don''t think I can. Why don''t you ask Ma Jin if he can handle it without your signature?"

    "He can," answered Shui Xian. "After all, my B¨¤ is there. His signature will do."

    Cloe looked at him with resentment in her eyes and turned to Raelle, "Chief, can''t I get a cheat like that?"

    "That''s a cheat?" asked Raelle. "And who should I call? Only my signature would work. Even if ask Yanyan to go and help you a little, she won''t agree. She likes being a shareholder, but she doesn''t like taking responsibilities that are associated with the business."

    Cloe ced the files before Raelle and parted her lips to report on matters. But her eyes wandered off to Shui Xian who was leisurely scrolling on his iPad.

    Noticing the silence, Shui Xian looked up, "What? Do you think I''ll steal your business ideas or trade secrets or something?"

    "I didn''t say anything," Cloe defended herself as she looked at Raelle. "He is assuming things on his own." She cleared her throat and started her report.

    Meanwhile, Raelle''s eyes scanned through the documents in a sh before she signed the papers and moved on to the next one.

    "It''s only been two days, how is there so much work?" asked Shui Xian.

    Raelle continued to concentrate on her while Cloe looked at Shui Xian and moved to whisper, "Why don''t you ask that to your wife? Why can''t she stop being stingy and hire more people?"

    "She isn''t stingy," stated Shui Xian.

    Cloe mentally rolled her eyes at this whipped Master Xian and added, "No, but she thinks she is omnipotent. She can do the work of 100 people on her own so why would she hire 100 people? She thinks just because people called her a robot, she is one. You need to remind her that she is human."

    "I know very well who I am," came Raelle''s voice.

    "Chief, you heard that?" Cloeughed awkwardly.

    "You weren''t being that quiet," answered Raelle. "Besides, I only take on the work that I can do. I know I''m not omnipotent. Don''t spread rumors about me."

    Cloe zipped her lips and nodded her head.

    Shui Xian smiled at their interactions and shook his head.

    "But Chief, you really are putting me in a difficult spot," said Cloe. "You''re supposed to be on a business trip to Long Ind this week but now, you can''t go. We can''t dy the business, so I''ll have to take over. However, our project is at thest stage now and someone needs to be here. Who should I look for when you trust so few people?"

    "Let him do it, he is pretty free anyway," said Raelle as she pointed at Shui Xian.

    "Me?" Shui Xian pointed at himself. "Wife, I''m honored that you''re putting so much trust into me but are you sure? I know nothing about your project. No, I do a little but that knowledgees from the business news. How am I supposed to take over? Besides, who said I am free? I am a busy husband. I have the important task of apanying my wife on my weak shoulders."

    "I can''t see this," muttered Cloe as she looked away from Shui Xian. "My eyes sting."

    "Why are your eyes stinging?" asked Shui Xian.

    "Because of you," said Cloe.

    "Me? What did I do? Am I cutting onions here?"

    Cloe gave him a look, "Master Xian, I used to respect you as apetent man. You keep ruining your image in my mind."

    "When I''m around my wife, why do you even have to look at me as Master Xian? At this time, I''m only your Chief''s dearest husband."

    "Okay, my Chief''s dearest husband, I''ll change the filter I use to look at you from now."

    Raelle closed the files before her and passed them to Cloe, "I''m done with it. You can take it back. Also, you can leave for Long Ind and leave behind your Chief assistant to take over your work here."

    "Chief, you...?" Cloe looked at Raelle in disbelief. "You''re putting your trust in my assistant?"

    "Don''t get me wrong," said Raelle. "My trust still lies with you. And you''re the one who trained your chief assistant since he joined thepany. So, I hope he lives up to your teaching of all these years."

    Cloe was stunned for a moment before she nodded her head, "Thank you for your trust!"

    While Cloe was gathering her stuff to leave, she heard Raelle''s question, "I heard your boyfriend met Yanyan?"

    Cloe nodded in response, "Yes. Thest time he came to pick me up, he met her in front of the hospital."

    "Yanyan said she asked you to bring him over for dinner."

    "Yes, she did."

    "Then take him back home," answered Raelle. "Finish your work at the Long Ind, I''ll be discharged by then. Yoou can take him home then."

    "The day you discharge will be like a reunion dinner at the Xiang Manor, how can we intrude?"

    Raelle gave her a look, "It''s because it''ll be a reunion dinner that I''m asking you to go back home to introduce your boyfriend to the family."

    Cloe''s body stiffened for a moment before she rxed and smiled at her.

    "I''m going to see his sister in a couple of days," told Cloe to Raelle.

    Raelle nodded her head, "Well if you''re sure then you definitely should see his sister. Don''t think so much, his sister''s husband is your old friend. It shouldn''t be difficult."

    "I''ll call youter," said Cloe. Then she looked at Shui Xian, "And I''ll be very grateful if you''re not the one picking up the call. What are you? Assistant of my Chief now? Why do you have her phone?"

    "I''m acting as her phone operator," replied Shui Xian.

    Cloe sighed at him, "But I want tomunicate with my Chief."

    "That depends on what you have to say," said Shui Xian. "I won''t pass her the phone for just useless talk."

 Chapter 831 As Your Girlfriend

    Chapter 831 As Your GirlfriendˇˇˇˇCloe came thirty minutes ago and left immediately after her work was done here. She had no time to stay around since Raelle wasn''t at the office, she had too much on her te. She hardly had time for herself.

    When she stepped out of the hospital, someone took the files from her hands. She looked up in shock. "You? What are you doing here?"

    "You said in the text that you''re going to the hospital," replied Cui Xukun. "I didn''t get to talk to you or see you. So, I took this chance toe and be your driver. I''ll drop you at your office and on the way, we can spend some time together?"

    Cloe gave him a strange look, "You''re silly! Who does that? Don''t you have work?"

    "I think fate''s on my side, I had a meeting with a client close to here that''s why I came to wait for you once I got your text. Aren''t I good? Do I get some points for being so thoughtful?"

    "I think you''re just being silly," she replied and took out her car keys saying, "I drove here."

    He shrugged and took her car key from her, "And now, I''ll be your driver. I''ll take you back to the office."

    "Didn''t you drive here?" she asked.

    Cui Xukun continued to walk towards the parking lot as he told her, "I did. But I can just leave my car here. I''lle again to pick it up."

    "That''s waste of time," said Cloe. "My Chief says time is money."

    He stopped abruptly making Cloe almost run into him. He turned around and touched her head, "I can waste both my time and money on you. I don''t mind. It''s all eventually yours. Even me."

    Cloe gaped at him, "Are you perhaps taking lessons from Shui Xian?"

    "No way," he replied. "But I did learn something from him."

    "What?" she asked.

    "That I should keep boasting about my partner, it really gives you an amazing feeling. No wonder, he was being a show-off."

    He unlocked the car and Cloe opened the door to get in while shaking her head at him.

    Cui Xukun also got in the car and looked at her for a minute.

    "What? Drive now!"

    Cui Xukun extended his hand to brush her hair away from her face saying, "In just two days, you seem to have lost so much weight."

    Cloeughed at his words that didn''t make sense. How was it possible to lose weight in just two days? He was really being silly now. "I think you''re seeing wrong."

    "I''m serious," he really looked distressed for her. "Why do you have so much burden on your shoulders? You''re worried about your Chief. You have so much work. You can''t even eat properly or rest properly. It''s really not good. Did you eat lunch?"

    "I''m fine," she said.

    He took out something from his pocket and shoved it into her hands, "Eat these steamed buns. I knew you wouldn''t have eaten. While I drive, you can definitely eat it, right?"

    Cloe looked at him and then looked at the buns in her hands before her lips curled up and she nodded her head, "Okay. I''ll eat this then. What about you?"

    "I already ate," he told her. "Didn''t I say I was seeing a client just now? We had lunch together. Besides, I usually eat all three meals on time. Even take my midnight snacks very seriously. How can missing one lunch be a big deal to me? It''s you who is worrying me? If you continue like this, you won''t be cuddly anymore."

    Cloe stopped in the middle of biting the steamed bun and tilted her head to look at him, "You think I''m cuddly? I have pretty amazing curves! How am I cuddly?"

    Cui Xukun gave her a nce, "I wasn''t calling you fat. But don''t worry, I''ll go back and make some nutritious meals for you to make sure you don''t lose your curves."

    "If you really fed me so much, I''ll lose my curves."

    "It won''t happen," he assured.

    He seemed to be in a very good mood as he drove the car while Cloe ate the steamed bun in silence. But he wasn''t silent. He shared the most random thing about his days with her. And Cloe just listened to everything he said. She knew he was trying to rx her by distracting her mind from work and it was actually working.

    She actually felt really sweet in her heart. From the moment he showed up and proposed to drive her back to the office just to spend some time with her, she had this sticky sweet feeling in her heart that was growing exponentionally.

    How could she not be sure about this guy? She was more than sure about this silly guy! She definitely wanted him so why bother waiting for so long?

    Once she was done, she took the water bottle that was kept in the car and drank some water. Once done, she told Cui Xukun, "Ask your sister when she has time."

    "Hm?"

    "I want to visit her," said Cloe. "As your girlfriend."

    Cui Xukun was d that they were at a red light or else, he''d have put them in danger. He looked at her and raised his brow inquisitively, "You mean...?"

    Cloe turned his face back towards the road, "It''s green now. Drive!"

    "No, but..."

    Cloe smiled at his reaction and repeated, "I said, it''s time for me to meet my sister-inw. After all, she is the most important person in my boyfriend''s life. I should definitely make some time to meet her."

    Cui Xukun felt like he was over the moon and momentarily didn''t know what to say. In the end, he nodded his head, "I''ll ask my Jiejie. I''ll let you know. Don''t worry. I''ll make sure to arrange the meeting when you''re off work. And I''ll take you there myself." He grinned foolishly as he hummed and continued to drive.

 Chapter 832 She Is Pretty

    Chapter 832 She Is PrettyˇˇˇˇTang Hebe was feeling really distressed for her son who refused to leave her side. Even when he woke up in the morning, he continued to cling to her and buried his face in her neck refusing to let go. It took a lot of coaxing to make him let go and go home with nanny Mi for a while.

    But in the afternoon, he was back and ran to Tang Hebe once again.

    "Aiyo, my baby is getting clingier," Tang Hebe kissed his cheek lovingly.

    Little Justin looked into her eyes and used his small hand to touch the bandage on her hand as he asked, "Hurt?"

    Tang Hebe gave him a sweet smile, "No, baby, it doesn''t hurt at all."

    He didn''t look like he believed her very much but he didn''t say anything. He pouted his small lips and continued to look into her eyes making her confused.

    "What''s wrong?" she asked him.

    "Mom," he called out in a whisper. "You remember me?"

    Tang Hebe was startled when she saw the anticipation in his eyes. She nodded her head and said, "Oh, how can I forget my Justin? Aren''t you mom''s little baby? How can I ever forget you?"

    He looked wronged as heined, "But you did forget."

    Tang Hebe''s heart clenched when she heard him say that and hugged him tightly. She picked him up and said, "I''m sorry. Mom''s really sorry for that, baby. It won''t happen again."

    He ced his head on her shoulder and nodded his head.

    "Did you eat?" she asked.

    "I did," he answered.

    "You didn''t bother Nanny Mi, did you?"

    "I didn''t," he replied.

    "That''s my good boy," she rubbed his head adoringly. "Come, mom will go out on a walk with you. Would you like that?"

    "Yes," he replied like a well-mannered child. But he suddenly stopped her.

    "What?"

    "You can put me down," he said. "I can walk."

    Tang Hebe was surprised to hear that. He usually really liked it when she carried him around but today, he wanted her to put him down so he could walk? She couldn''t understand it.

    "Mom is hurt," his milky voice exined it to her clearing her doubts. "I''m a big boy now. I can walk."

    Tang Hebe felt so sweet listening to him and kissed his forehead. "Okay." She didn''t insist on carrying him around. Since he wanted to grow up, she''ll just let him be.

    Nanny Mi looked at the mother and son feeling gratified. She was having a difficult time with Justin in the past days without Tang Hebe around. Justin was young but he didn''t like to talk to anyone else other than Tang Hebe. He was unusually attached to his mother as if seeking some security that only she could provide. So, even though Nanny Mi had been around him for a long time, he was still not willing to interact with her.

    At most, he''d cooperate with her like a well-behaved child just because Tang Hebe asked him to be a good boy. But all in all, he was an adorable kid who hardly gave her a hard time.

    Tang Hebe held Justin''s hand and took him out to the garden. She actually didn''t want him to stay at the hospital. She didn''t think it was a good ce for kids but she couldn''t get discharged right now with her condition so she had to wrong her son who couldn''t stay without her.

    In the garden, she saw a couple of patients who their own kidsing over to see them. Those kids were so lively. Laughing and ying around. So full of life.

    Then she looked at her son who was holding her hand and lookedpletely disinterested in everything around him. He hardly had interests. He only liked being with her or ying with his Rubik cubes. His interests were very few and even she couldn''t understand them most of the time.

    Well, her son was different. It was established a long time ago. So, there was no point in thing about all this now. No matter what, he was all he had and he was all his life. He was the reason she forgot all about Shui Xian. She never thought she''d be able to let him go but she did it when Justin came into her life so suddenly.

    She had been avoiding running into Shui Xian and Raelle since the time she got her memories but she knew she couldn''t hide forever. Besides, what could she do at this point? What''s done was done already. It''s not like she did anything on purpose.

    More than embarrassment, she was avoiding them because she found herself really pathetic. Her pathetic act before them was the reason she didn''t want to see them. But the things you try to run from always catch up to you eventually.

    As she looked up and found Shui Xian and Raelle strolling around hand in hand, she also realized how she really couldn''t run from them. Especially from Shui Xian. Back then, she ran because she was afraid he''d ask her why she wanted a divorce. But aftering back, the way she kept running into them made her realize that she really had nowhere to run. There was no point in running. It was tiring anyway.

    Perhaps, it was time to face some things.

    "Pretty!"

    Tang Hebe snapped out of her thoughts when she heard the voice of her son and looked down and him to ask, "What did you say, baby?"

    Little Justin pointed somewhere and said, "Pretty."

    Tang Hebe followed the direction of his little finger and found Raelle. She looked at her face for a moment before smiling, "Hmm... She is really pretty."

    Once upon a time, she wouldn''t have believed that she''d say that Raelle was really beautiful. But the truth was, she had always been beautiful. It was her own inferiorityplex that kept her from epting the truth. But once she did ept it, things became a lot easier in life.

 Chapter 833 I Should Be Proud

    Chapter 833 I Should Be Proudˇˇˇˇ"I thought you''re gonna be just my dearest husband and phone operator," said Raelle as she looked at Shui Xian who brought nail paint from who knew where.

    "I can be your personal nail artist as well," he replied. "Don''t worry. I''m multi-talented."

    "But who said I want to wear nail paint? Have you seen me wearing it?" she asked.

    "If not before, we can do it now," he replied. He put her hand on the table and set up his tools. "Besides, I don''t feel good seeing you in this dull hospital gown. Since I can''t change the color of this, I can do something else to add some colors." He lifted up a nail paint bottle showing her, "Look, I brought your color. Red! Perfect for you!"

    "It contains harmful particles," she stated.

    "Rx! This is the best non-toxic nail polish," told Shui Xian. "I got it personally from the brand. Had to ask an acquaintance to get this. But it''s worth it. For now, it''s not even on the market. It''s exclusively for you."

    When he attentively started painting her nails, Raelle only had one thought on her mind, ''Her husband has too much time on hand.''

    It was because he was free that he was doing all sorts of silly things.

    But she had to say, he was very diligent at these silly things as well. The way he was painting her nails was really something she couldn''t describe in words. She never thought she''d waste her time on this.

    He blew on her nails and grinned. He looked very satisfied with his work. So, Raelle just let him be. Once he was done with both her hands, he gathered his tools and stood up. He picked up ab tob her hair slowly and even braided them. It didn''t turn out impable but it was still good enough.

    "Where did you learn that?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian put her side braid on her shoulder and said, "I watched online tutorials. I say it''s not bad. If you put some effort into it, you can learn anything online these days."

    "Are you reminding me that I should put effort into learning how to cook?" asked Raelle.

    "I don''t mean that," he replied. "You''re good at making money. You do that. I can cook."

    "The way you''re talking, it sounds like you''re ready to be a househusband," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian held her shoulders and looked at her, "Oh, I like the sound of that."

    Raelle put her index finger between his brows and pushed him away saying, "But I don''t like the sound of that."

    "What a shame," was his response. He looked at her face carefully and said, "You''re still very pale because of your health. Let''s add some blush."

    "I''m in the hospital as a patient," reminded Raelle.

    "And I want you to be the prettiest patient around," he replied. "What''s wrong with putting on some makeup?"

    "What did the doctor tell you earlier?" asked Raelle. Shui Xian''s movements paused when he heard her question. "You started being sillier since you came back after seeing the doctor."

    "The doctor said you''re recovering well," answered Shui Xian. "I promise, that''s what she said."

    "What else?" asked Raelle and Shui Xian licked his lips but didn''t continue. "She told you to make me happy?" Shui Xian raised his brow at her. "She must have also said that you need to pay attention that I don''t fall into depression during this phase or get irritated or get some mood swings. After all, this is a sensitive period for a woman."

    Shui Xian gaped at her, "How do you know? Were you eavesdropping on us?"

    "I don''t have to," replied Raelle. "It''s pretty obvious she said something along these lines. You see, I understand psychology very well. I spent way too much time with psychologists and spent the other time trying to understand human psychology. Do you really think I don''t know what women go through after a miscarriage? Women are more prone to depression. Especially when it involves pregnancy."

    "Indeed, my wife is knowledgable,"mented Shui Xian.

    "But what are you worried about? Don''t I look fine? I think I''m mentally very strong," said Raelle. "I won''t break and crumble down with one setback in life. It''s not the first setback of my life either. So what if I''m a genius, I''ve seen my fair shares of failures. I think it''s you whose mental health is worrying."

    Shui Xian squinted his eyes at her, "The doctor said, even if the patient looks fine. Sometimes we can''t be sure if they are really fine."

    "Hmm... Because there is a thing called smiling depression," said Raelle. "A person seems happy and well but could still be in depression. And you seem to fit that description more than me."

    Shui Xian sighed, "Then isn''t it good? I''ll keep doing all these silly things for both of us?"

    "I didn''t stop you," answered Raelle. "Anyway, I''m here. You can do whatever you want."

    Shui Xian smiled at her and nodded his head. He really put a light blush on her cheeks to give them a rosy feeling and applied some lipstick as well. Usually, her lips were naturally red but these days, they seemed a bit white. He didn''t like seeing that.

    "Done! Now, let''s go out!"

    "Out?" asked Raelle. "We are getting discharged?"

    "No!" he burst her bubble immediately. "We are just going for a walk as promised. Didn''t I say I won''t lock you in the room all the time?"

    "Oh..." responded Raelle.

    He held her hand and pulled her out saying, "Come, it''s time for me to show off my beautiful wife and make all those patients jealous of how pretty my wife is even in a hospital gown."

    "You really have a weird way of finding happiness," said Raelle.

    "My happiness is you," he told her as he touched her nose. "So anything rted to you makes me happy. Especially when I get to show you off."

    "It''s me who got the good genes, what are you proud about?" she asked.

    "It''s me who got you as my wife," he replied. "I should be proud."

 Chapter 834 Selfless Person

    Chapter 834 Selfless PersonˇˇˇˇIt was while strolling in the garden that Raelle could perceive someone pointing at her. When she turned out, she was met with the eyes of a small kid blinking at her. Then she moved her eyes at looked at the woman beside the kid.

    Instantly, Tang Hebe looked flustered when she met Raelle''s eyes. She felt like she was caught doing something wrong.

    Raelle raised her hand and waved at Tang Hebe and thetter''s idea of running away copsed. Well, why does she have to run? Why was she such a coward even after all these years? Tang Hebe puffed up her chest and reminded herself that she wasn''t a weakling anymore! She refused to be a coward again!

    Shui Xian frowned when he noticed Raelle''s movement and followed her gaze. When he looked at Tang Hebe, there was no special reaction from him. He looked as usual.

    "Wife, I just noticed," said Shui Xian. "You seem to have more interest in people than in your own husband."

    "What are you talking about?" asked Raelle. "You''re my husband. My interest in you is at a peak level! Don''t doubt it."

    "How can I not doubt?" he retorted. "I''m right beside you but your eyes are stuck on someone else."

    Raelle blinked at him, "Are you perhaps, jealous?"

    Shui Xian turned his face away as he cleared his throat and said, "No. How is that possible?"

    "Well, it''s better if you''re not jealous," she said.

    Slowly, Tang Hebe walked towards them and came to stand a little distance away from them. She looked at both of them and put on a sincere expression as she said, "I seem to have troubled your life in the past few days. I''m really sorry about that."

    "I usually don''t like troubles," stated Raelle. "But you saved my life. I can do this much in return."

    Tang Hebe smiled bitterly, "You''re looking at the bright side of things. If you think about it, technically, I killed your... child."

    Shui Xian''s expression changed when he heard that and the hand holding Raelle squeezed a little. Even Tang Hebe noticed the gloomy air that emanated from his body. She felt her heart-wrenching. This guilt was truly gonna kill her. She couldn''t give a child to him when they were together and when he finally was gonna be a father, she again took that chance away from him. How could anyone live with that?

    At least, she wasn''t that heartless. She still had her conscience condemning her at every single turn. She couldn''t even look into their eyes right now.

    Raelle took in the reaction of both Tang Hebe who seemed to be cursing herself in her heart and of her own husband who must be reminded of his pain and the loss all over again.

    "I''ll say the same thing I said before to others," started Raelle. "If you didn''t push me, along with my child, I might also be not here today." Shui Xian''s hand squeezed hers so tightly that he seemed to be obstructing the blood flow of her hand but Raelle didn''t react at all. "I believe your intervention saved at least one person. And you did it at the expense of your own life."

    Tang Hebe was stunned to hear that response from Raelle and stared into her eyes. She could see that Raelle meant everything she just said. But then again, Raelle always meant what she said. How could a person like her know to tell lies to make others feel good? She wasn''t that person for sure.

    "If you kept being this guilty about it, you''d be making yourself live in the prison of guilt for a lifetime. But do you really deserve it?" asked Raelle.

    "I should be the one consoling you for your loss," said Tang Hebe. "Why are you the one knocking sense into my head?"

    "You seem to have ack of sense," was Raelle''s straightforward response.

    It stunned Tang Hebe and made Shui Xian''s lips twitch. But he didn''t disagree with her words. Indeed, Tang Hebe did seem tock some sense. And who was the best person to knock some sense into your head? It''s definitely Raelle Xiang! He knew it from personal experience.

    Tang Hebe continued to stare at her in disbelief, "You really don''t mince your words at all."

    "I''m sorry if my words were offending," said Raelle. "But I really don''t know how to mince my words. People did advise me to buy a filter for my mouth but sadly, I didn''t find anything like a filter for the mouth on the market as of now." She took a pause and added, "In the end, I just want to tell you that we can''t have everything in life. It''s just how life works."

    "Maybe you''re right," said Tang Hebe. "idents do happen."

    "idents?" repeated Raelle. "In Quantum Universe there is no such thing as idents, only possibilities, and probabilities folded into existence by perception. So, idents really don''t just happen."

    Tang Hebe was momentarily lost for words and Shui Xian was finding it amusing. There his wife was proving her love for science all over again! See? Knowledge was the key! If you''re knowledgeable you could make anyone speechless. And of course, the best person to make you speechless was none other than Raelle Xiang.

    Always have faith in her abilities.

    "I don''t follow that," said Tang Hebe.

    Raelle looked at her and then at Shui Xian, "Maybe I should refrain from this discussion."

    "You think so?" asked Shui Xian. It was the first time he opened his mouth to say something since the time Tang Hebe came to talk to them.

    "Yes," replied Raelle as she nodded her head.

    Shui Xian patted her head, "It''s good that you know."

    Raelle looked back at Tang Hebe and started, "But I have a question for you, Ms. Tang. Do you mind answering?"

    "What is it?" Tang Hebe felt a little uneasy under Raelle''s gaze.

    "You don''t look like a selfless person," stated Raelle. "Then why risk your life for someone you hate?"

 Chapter 835 Same Person, Different Perception

    Chapter 835 Same Person, Different PerceptionˇˇˇˇTang Hebe did not expect she''d be asking this question and it momentarily made her go quiet. She continued to blink with her mind in a daze.

    "I don''t hate you," she stated.

    "Not anymore," agreed Raelle. "Still, it doesn''t change the fact that you once did. So, I don''t see a reason why you had to put your own life at stake for me?"

    Tang Hebe''s eyes instinctively nced at Shui Xian before she looked away immediately.

    "At that time, I didn''t think so much," she replied.

    Raelle looked down at the little boy who had been obediently standing beside his mother holding her hand tightly while his eyes never looked away from Raelle. Even Raelle had long noticed the way little Justin continued to look at her. It was actually interesting the way the little boy didn''t even flinch looking into her eyes.

    She heard she had an unnerving nk gaze. Was it because he was a kid who couldn''t feel it or because he had the almost identical nk look in his eyes?

    Raelle moved closer to Tang Hebe and whispered, "Lying in front of your son, isn''t that bad parenting?"

    Tang Hebe looked at her as she moved back to her ce and continued to look at her.

    "Although I never had parents nor am I a parent, I still know it''s bad parenting," remarked Raelle. "After all, kids learn what they see not what you teach them." Raelle looked back at Justin as she continued, "I know I picked up a lot of habits from just watching my Opa and Yanyan."

    "What do you think I''m lying about?" asked Tang Hebe.

    "It''s not that difficult to say that you saved me because of my husband," said Raelle. "It''s written on your face. Why try to hide it so hard?" As if she didn''t notice the subtle nce she threw at Shui Xian. Was it that hard to interpret? She didn''t think so. "Do you think it''ll create some unnecessary trouble between us? Then rx. We are a very trouble-free couple."

    Shui XIan chuckled softly at her words.

    "What? Am I wrong?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian shook his head solemnly, "How dare I say you''re wrong? You''re always right."

    "Not always," said Raelle. "But I try my best to be."

    Tang Hebe looked at their small interaction and smiled to herself, "You''re right. I didn''t save you because it was you. It was mostly because you''re Shui Xian''s wife. I didn''t want him to lose you. So, without thinking I pushed you away."

    "See? Is it that difficult to be true to yourself?" asked Raelle.

    "You''re very different from what I thought of you," said Tang Hebe.

    "Just because you looked at me through tinted ss didn''t mean I''ll be that way," replied Raelle. "In fact, people are all illusions. You always look at people the way you want them to. That''s not how they are. You look at yourself like you want to, while people would look at you like they want to. We all see the same things but we all have different perceptions. It''s difficult to say who is right or wrong. But judging people based on the illusion you created in your own head is unfair."

    Tang Hebe felt like she just called her out for keeping that hatred and jealousy regarding Raelle for so many years. She didn''t deserve that prejudice. She was younger than her but Tang Hebe could understand why Shui Xian''s mother said she was better than her.

    "You''re really impable," stated Tang Hebe.

    Raelle could tell something was wrong with that statement.

    "Ms. Tang, do you think I''m better than you?" asked Raelle.

    "Aren''t you?" asked Tang Hebe. "You''re considered a genius. You are sessful in whatever you do. You''re very clear about what you want in life. You don''t care about what people think about you. You''re rational and a remarkable person."

    "You seem to have some misunderstanding regarding me," said Raelle. "Neither am I better than you nor am I worse. I don''t particrly appreciatepeting with people. You have your own merits, I have my own. And yes, we both have our own demerits as well. We both have apletely unique DNA in our body, what makes you think we should be judged the same way? You and I are not the same people."

    Tang Hebe''s eyes shed when she heard that and fell into deep thought.

    "You said I''m a genius? Do you know there is a thin line between being a genius and a lunatic? You can never tell what I really am. I''m not always sessful. I''m not that great. How do you know I''m clear about what I want in my life? Even if I am sure, can I keep up with the change around me? Life is always unpredictable. I knew I''d one day get married, but I didn''t expect to get married at this point in my life. People''s opinions don''t matter to me since I don''t know them. But my family''s opinion always matters."

    Raelle''s attention was still on Tang Hebe who frowned deeply.

    "Do you know I don''t understand emotions and can''t rte to them? That only leaves me with a rational mind since emotions can''t manipte my thoughts. I''m not remarkable. Even after the struggle for years, I don''t even know how to put on a smile." She took a brief pause to add, "You should stop looking at me like I''m perfect. I''m no better than you and neither do I want to be. All my life, I''ve just been trying to be better than the person I was yesterday. And if I seed in that, that''d be enough for me. Life isn''t all thatplicated to me."

    Shui Xian knew why she said all that even when she didn''t need to. He never realized Tang Hebe felt so inferior in her life. But Raelle saw it and she didn''t like it since Tang Hebe''s inferiority seemed to stem from Raelle''s perfection. And Raelle was never the kind of a person to put people down with her achievements.

 Chapter 836 Wrong Person

    Chapter 836 Wrong PersonˇˇˇˇRaelle didn''t have to say of that. She really didn''t have to. She wasn''t a good person. She always said that she wasn''t. She never wasted her breath on unnecessary exnations. This had to be one of those rare moments when she actually decided to take on this troublesome matter and make it clear to Tang Hebe that no one was better than the other between them.

    The reason behind that wasn''t all thatplicated as well. It was still simple. Since Tang Hebe went out of her way to try to save her life, Raelle decided to go out of her way to speak a few words she normally wouldn''t.

    She knew that Tang Hebe wasn''t thinking about saving Raelle Xiang at that moment. She only thought of saving Shui Xian''s wife. No matter who''d be Shui Xian''s wife, Tang Hebe would have done the same at that moment. Because subconsciously she believed she owed something bigger to Shui Xian. And to pay it back she didn''t mind risking her own life.

    Tang Hebe didn''t know how to react to what Raelle said to her. Every single word of her seemed to have hit home. She bowed deeply before Raelle and said, "I''m really sorry for my prejudice towards you."

    Raelle took a step back saying, "You stand up already. Your son is looking. Do you want him to hate me for making his mother bow down before me?"

    Tang Hebe chuckled but still stood up as she rubbed her son''s head.

    "I understand that you never did anything wrong to me," said Tang Hebe. "So, it''s really wrong of me to make you a viin in my story. You really didn''t deserve the hatred I directed towards you. It wasn''t actually your fault that Ms. Qian never epted me. Although originally I thought that way, it wasn''t really the case. It was just me whom she didn''t like. It had nothing to do with you." Tang Hebe sighed at that. "In fact, deep down I knew this truth even at that time. But I couldn''t ept the fact that I wasn''t good enough to make her like me. So, I found a person to me and that person became you."

    "Oh, I don''t mind," said Raelle. "You can continue to hate me all you want." She lookedpletely unbothered as she continued, "After all, your hatred couldn''t bring me down back then and it won''t affect me even now."

    Tang Hebe had to say sometimes she really sounded too rude and conceited but she couldn''t do anything about it. No wonder people said she''d make you feel helpless. Because currently, she was going through the same feeling of helplessness.

    Shui Xian tapped Raelle''s hand and she looked at him before saying, "I''m gonna sit over there for a while." Shui Xian nodded his head and watched her leave.

    Even without a word, she understood that she had to leave to give them space for a while. She knew Shui Xian had a lot of questions for Tang Hebe and only now could he ask those questions since earlier, Tang Hebe had no memories of the things he wanted to inquire about.

    "She really trusts you,"mented Tang Hebe. "She left you alone with the ex-wife."

    "From the moment she sat down to talk about our marriage, she said it''ll be based on trust," replied Shui Xian. "Surprisingly, she doesn''t ask for much in life. Trust and loyalty is enough for her. She even insulted me by saying that since my first marriage which was based on love didn''t work, I should give a chance to this marriage that won''t be built on love. It was a critical hit."

    Tang Hebe was surprised to hear that but not all that surprised either at the same time.

    "She is a unique person,"mented Tang Hebe.

    "I don''t need to hear youplimenting my wife," said Shui Xian. "You have something of mine. I''d like to have it back."

    Tang Hebe looked into his eyes and nodded her head, "Your mother''s ring. I know. When I heard that you got married, I knew you''d look for me for that ring. And here we are."

    "You should have given it back long ago," was Shui Xian''s response.

    "You''re right," replied Tang Hebe. "I really should have given it back long ago. We can''t keep things that don''t belong to us. No matter how hard we try to hold them, they''ll slip away since they aren''t ours, to begin with." She smiled at him and added, "I''ll give it back to you as soon as I''m discharged."

    "That''ll be great," said Shui Xian and looked like he was about to leave which surprised Tang Hebe.

    "That''s it?" she asked.

    Shui Xian looked back at her, "What do you mean?"

    "You don''t have anything else to say or ask?" she asked.

    "I had a lot of questions but what''s the point? If you wanted to give me answers you would have done it years ago. I don''t want to waste my time on asking you questions anymore."

    She nodded her head but still said, "I thought you''d ask why I asked for a divorce back then."

    "You gave me the answer to that question," said Shui Xian making her frown. "You told me clearly how my love was suffocating you and I was not giving you enough space to breathe. You wanted to be free again."

    Tang Hebe felt like he was stabbing her in the heart. Even though they had both moved on and those were the words she said to him, it still hurt to hear those words from him. And at that moment, she didn''t dare look into his eyes. If it hurt her now after all these years, she couldn''t imagine how much it''d have hurt him when she said those words to him.

    After all, she could never deny that he loved her with all he got. But he really wasted that love on the wrong person like her.

 Chapter 837 Against The Rules

    Chapter 837 Against The Rulesˇˇˇˇ"Is it toote to apologize?" she asked in a soft voice.

    "For how many things are you gonna apologize for?" he asked in return. "Besides, you''re right. I was too emotional and didn''t notice the change in you. I should have done it. So, I can''t say I was perfect either. Let''s just say we were really not meant to be." He looked carefully at her before asking, "But I do want to know something. Did you already know about the history between the Tang family and the Qian family?"

    Tang Hebe''s heart thudded when she heard that question and looked wide-eyed at him. She didn''t even have to say it, he already got the answer he wanted.

    "You indeed knew," he muttered. "Since when?"

    "A week before the anniversary," she told him honestly.

    Shui Xian''s hand clenched when he got the answer and had to take a deep breath to calm himself. He didn''t think knowing the history of their family was enough to make Tang Hebe give up on their rtionship. But he still didn''t ask her why she did it.

    "In the end, you really chose to keep the tradition between our families alive," he stated. "You really took it upon yourself to hurt me in the worst way possible." He stared at her and said, "You made me question my choices, my love, my feelings, my everything. And then you chose to break everything I had. That''s a very good way to get your revenge."

    "I didn''t do it for revenge," she said immediately. "I really didn''t."

    "Of course, you did it to make me hate you," said Shui Xian. "Sorry to disappoint you. I''ve stopped wasting my feelings on you. I don''t care why you wanted to do it. Whether you wanted revenge or just wanted me to hate you. Either way, I don''t care." He took a pause and added, "You and I have nothing to do with each other anymore. And let''s keep it that way."

    "Xian!" she called out to him. "If... I mean just if you knew from the beginning what history our families share, would you have still loved me?"

    Shui Xian didn''t turn back to look at her, his eyes were focused on the figure of Raelle who seemed to be chatting with a little boy. He realized that the little boy was actually Tang Hebe''s son. They didn''t even notice when he slipped away and went to Raelle''s side.

    He thought about the question Tang Hebe just asked and said, "My mother once loved your uncle knowing everything. The family feud couldn''t stop them from loving each other. What makes you think we''d have been different? Maybe we would have been cautious towards each other but if it was meant to be, we''d still fall in love against all odds."

    He was certain of what he said. His eyes softened as they were fixed on Raelle''s face. Didn''t he fall in love with her against all odds? What was the possibility of someone like him falling for someone like her? Technically, they were two ends of a straight line, and yet, they met and fell in love. How could he not believe that love was unstoppable? No matter how hard you try, you can''t escape from the ensnare of it.

    ....

    Meanwhile, on the other side, Raelle really wanted to sit down and went to the empty chair. She hadn''t sat for a few minutes when a little boy appeared before her blinking his big eyes at her. Strangely, she thought his eyes were identical to hers. Why was she thinking about that again?

    He stretched out his hand and Raelle found him holding three Shasta Daisy flowers. The flowers were delicate with white petals and a yellow center.

    She looked at the flowers and then at him. His eyes were still looking at her with the same interest as before. "This is?"

    He pursed his small lips before saying, "For you."

    "This is for me?" she asked and his head bobbed up and down in reply. "Why?" she asked.

    "Pretty," he said simply.

    "I''m as pretty as the flowers?" she interpreted his words and he nodded his head again to show that that was exactly what he meant to say.

    Raelle never doubted her looks so she happily would take thatpliment, especially from a kid. After all, kids are innocent and only speak the truth. And she seemed to like honest people.

    She took the flowers from his hand saying, "Then thank you for the flowers." She always liked good-looking things, especially pretty flowers so why would she say no to flowers?

    He was happy when she epted the flowers but he didn''t smile. It was only his eyes that brightened and showed his happiness. But it only took a minute before his eyes went back to that nk look again. It was this change that made Raelle keep her eyes on him and observe him carefully.

    "I have nothing to give you in return though," she said as she held the flowers and continued to look at him. She didn''t think it was okay to take something and not give anything in return. After all, usually, she was the one giving not receiving.

    "That''s okay," he said.

    "Where did you get the flowers?" she asked. "Did you pluck them from the hospital garden?" He nodded in reply. "You''re not allowed to do that though. It''s against the rules."

    He looked serious as he looked around and pursed his lips in worry. He looked like he did something really wrong.

    Raelle found his look quite interesting and said, "It''s okay. We''ll just say sorry to the hospital management."

    His eyes brightened again and he nodded his head, "Okay."

    "Since you have given me flowers, how about telling me your name? How else would I know which handsome kid gave me such pretty flowers?"

    "Justin," he told her.

    "I''m Raelle," she said. "Nice to meet you, little Justin."

 Chapter 838 Unfinished Business

    Chapter 838 Unfinished BusinessˇˇˇˇFeeling a little shy, Justin extended his small hand as he said, "Nice to meet you too."

    Raelle looked at his hand and then at him. She extended the flowers he gave her towards him making him frown in confusion. "You can shake the flowers. I don''t like handshakes."

    "Oh..." His lips made a small ''O'' and he looked quite adorable doing it.

    But he still held the one end of the flower as if he was shaking her hand and smiled at her in a well-behaved manner.

    Raelle noticed something and pointed at his chest asking, "Is that a Troodon?"

    Little Justin looked at his shirt and looked up at her as he shook his head saying, "No, this is a Megalosaurus. That''s my favorite dinosaur."

    Raelle looked at the small embroidered dinosaur and paused before saying, "Are you sure that''s a Megalosaurus?"

    "I''m sure," he answered. But he pursed his small lips and looked over, seeing that his mom was still far away, he whispered, "It''s hard to believe. I agree. It''s ugly. But mom spent weeks learning to embroider before she made this for me."

    "I think I like you," said Raelle. "Because our aesthetics match. That''s definitely ugly. But if you''re willing to believe it''s a Megalosaurus, I''ll go with it as well. So, it''s your favorite dinosaur? Why?"

    "Because it''s the coolest," answered Justin. "It was the first dinosaur to be discovered. And it was then humans started learning about these prehistoric beats."

    Raelle nodded and said, "When I was young I liked Deinonychus. But now, I think I like Triceratops more."

    "Why?" asked Justin curiously. His eyes brightened as he found someone with the same interest as him.

    "It''s one of the toughest dinosaurs out there," answered Raelle. And then these two continued to discuss their interest as if they were having some really serious discussion.

    ...

    "Why is your son talking so much to my wife?" asked Shui Xian.

    Tang Hebe was already stunned silent and didn''t know how to react to this at all. She was also looking at this scene but she could hardly believe her eyes. Her situation wasn''t much different than Shui Xian''s. Both were wondering the same thing; what was so interesting to talk about?

    Shui Xian never thought to see Raelle having such a long conversation with a kid. He always thought that Raelle didn''t like kids. Because whenever they discussed kids, she always had a lukewarm reaction. Well, her reaction was as usual just like her, he was the one who assumed that it seemed lukewarm so he was wondering if his assumptions were actually wrong. Howe his wife lookedfortable around a kid if she didn''t like kids?

    Meanwhile, Tang Hebe was also feelingplicated. She was already familiar with how much her son talked. Well, Justin wasn''t much of a talker. Even around her, he mostly answered her and didn''t look this enthusiastic as he did right now around Raelle. This made her feel a little envious.

    "Your wife is trying to steal my son," she grumbled.

    "No, she isn''t!" Shui Xian snapped at her. "It''s your son who is trying to seduce my wife."

    Tang Hebe gave him a look, "When did you be so petty? He is just a kid?"

    "He is your kid, I don''t trust him," said Shui Xian and decided to join them and see what this serious conversation was about. But when they got close, he actually got a headache hearing the numbers. What the hell? Were they doing maths?

    And indeed, he was right. From dinosaurs to mathematics, this discussion between Raelle and Justin was very colorful.

    "The answer will be 2.58963," he heard Raelle say.

    Justin pped his hands, "Wow! You''re awesome!"

    "I know, right," said Raelle. "Don''t worry, you aren''t too bad for your age. Although I was better at that age."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and felt embarrassed for his wife who was showing off before a kid. Howe he didn''t know his wife had this side? Oh, well. He loved it!

    "But really, you''re good. And that brings me to the conclusion that I like you," added Raelle.

    "Really?" asked Justin excitedly.

    "Yes," said Raelle. "I don''t lie. So, when I say I like you it means I like you. Also, I always like people who are good with numbers. Makes it easier for me to rte with them."

    Thatst sentence made Shui Xian feel a bit bitter for her and he joined in, "So, what are you guys up to?"

    Raelle looked at Shui Xian and said, "Husband, meet Justin. He gave me these pretty flowers."

    "Oh, they are very pretty," said Shui Xian.

    Justin lowered his head but Shui Xian could see that his ears turned red. Shui Xian smiled to himself when he noticed that.

    "Wifey, you''re making new friends here."

    "I don''t make friends," replied Raelle. "But I like this little one. He is smart. And he agrees that even though Tricerotops are herbivores, they are still the toughest and coolest dinosaurs to roam this earth. Oh, and he is good at maths."

    "Hi, Justin!" Shui Xian waved at Justin who replied in a small voice, "Hello!"

    "I''m her husband, Shui Xian," told Shui Xian to him. "You''re a very cool kid."

    "Are you bullying my son?" came Tang Hebe''s voice as she joined them and looked at her son.

    "Which eye of yours has malfunctioned?" asked Shui Xian. "It''s better to get it checked while we are in the hospital."

    Tang Hebe gaped at him in disbelief. "Justin, let''s go back now."

    "Little Justin can''t leave right now," said Raelle to Tang Hebe who was taken aback.

    "Why not?"

    "Because we still have unfinished business," was Raelle''s response. She looked at Justin, "Is that right, little man?"

    Justin nodded his head and looked at his mother. Tang Hebe was still not able to process what was happening here. How did she not know there was some unfinished business between Raelle and her son? Well, there was but she was sure, Raelle wasn''t aware of it yet. So, what was this about?

 Chapter 839 No In-Between

    Chapter 839 No In-Betweenˇˇˇˇ"What business can you possibly have with my son?" asked Tang Hebe in confusion.

    "I don''t," answered Raelle and looked at Justin.

    Little Justin spoke in his milky sweet voice, "Mom, I plucked flowers from the garden without permission. I have to apologize for my mistake."

    Tang Hebe was shocked when she heard that. She didn''t react for a whole minute.

    Meanwhile, Justin looked at Raelle, "Who should I say sorry to?"

    If it was the old Tang Hebe, she''d have asked why her son had to apologize for taking a couple of flowers. But now, she didn''t have the same mindset, especially after being a mother. She just had a veryplex look in her eyes when she looked at Raelle again. Oh, this girl kept surprising her and it was really not something she''d get used to.

    Raelle also had to think about this question. Whom to apologize to? The management? That felt right.

    "Let''s go and look for someone from the administration," said Raelle.

    "Okay," agreed Justin readily.

    "Why do I feel like my wife just collected a little follower?" Shui Xian muttered to himself. But when he noticed the way Tang Hebe was ring at him, he scowled, "What? What are you looking at?"

    "What did your wife do? My son is introverted. He doesn''t like interacting with strangers. Why is he so close to her after just a few minutes?"

    Shui Xian shrugged, "If you spend a few minutes with my Raelle, you either end up loving her or hating her. There is no in-between. Indeed, your son ended up loving her. Besides, kids are always open to people who make them feelfortable and to whom they can rte to. It can be seen that your son is veryfortable around my Raelle. Ah! The charm of hers even works at kids."

    Although he proudly showed off a little before Tang Hebe, as he followed Raelle and Justin, he was also wondering what was this. Why did he think that Raelle and Justin bonded very well and very soon as well? How was it possible?

    But then suddenly a thought came to him, ''Was it because Raelle was also just a curious little kid at heart like Justin?'' He knew he was thinking a bit of nonsense but it still made sense. Raelle''s heart was like a kid and so were her thoughts. She was very honest like pure children. So, he shouldn''t be surprised that she bonded with Justin.

    Raelle ended up going to the Administration Deputy Director''s office. She was about to knock when the door opened and a head full of shy red hair appeared before her. The woman was dressed in an elegant suit but it didn''t hide her personal style. She wore sses and looked verypetent.

    But as soon as she looked at Raelle, she grinned, "Yo! Cousin! I was just about to go and find you!"

    Raelle heard the word, ''Cousin'' and worked her memory before pulling out a file with this woman''s picture on it. "Ms. Gou Jinjin." Of course, Raelle knew the woman before her. Not personally, but she still knew her because she happened to be Mu Chenyan''s niece from her maternal family. In fact, Raelle was familiar with the identities of the whole Gou family. And since the hospital belonged to the Gou family, it wasn''t surprising to meet the family members here.

    The one called, Gou Jinjin clutched her chest and looked so touched, "Oh my gosh! You know me! I feel so honored. But don''t be so distant. You can call me Jin Jie! Or Jinjin. Or anything you like as long as it doesn''t sound too formal." She took a pause and asked, "But what are you doing here? Are you looking for me?"

    "We are looking for the Deputy Director," answered Raelle.

    "Oh, that''s me!" Gou Jinjin pointed at herself. "So, you''re really looking for me. But what is it about?" She suddenly turned serious. "Who dares to offend you? Did anyone slight you? Who is it? Who dared to mess with our family''s girl? Are they courting death?"

    "So, Yanyan was right. Your temper does match hers," stated Raelle.

    Gou Jinjin smiled awkwardly and touched her nose. Well, it was nothing new for her to hear that her temper matched her wayward aunt Mu Chenyan. But she always took it as apliment. After all, even if her aunt was called wayward, she was still the most respected one in the whole family. Even her own father was a little scared of this aunt who was actually the youngest in the family.

    "Anyway, we are here to inform you that we took some flowers from the garden. And since it''s clearly stated that flowers are not to be plucked, we should apologize for it," said Raelle.

    Justin came out from behind her and looked nervously at Gou Jinjin whose aura was too strong for a kid. He held the clothes of Raelle and said, "Sorry. It was me who took the flowers because I found them pretty and wanted to give them to this pretty sister."

    Gou Jinjin was lost for words for a moment before she faced Raelle, "You were looking for me for just that? It''s just flowers. Small matter. The hospital is yours. Do whatever you want."

    "Rules are rules," said Raelle.

    "Rules are meant to be broken," said Gou Jinjin nonchntly. But once she noticed Raelle looking at her, she cleared her throat. She crouched down and faced Justin, "Little buddy, it''s wrong to take flowers. But since you''re so adorable and this is your first mistake, I''ll let it go. But don''t do it again."

    "I won''t," said Justin and looked up at Raelle, "Will you see me again?"

    "Quite possible," replied Raelle, and then she looked at Tang Hebe whose heart thudded in her chest. She felt like Raelle could see something. Or maybe she was being paranoid now.

    "Justin, let''s go now!" Tang Hebe said hurriedly and Justin nodded his head.

    "Bye!" Justin waved at Raelle. "I''ll see youter." Then he ran to his mother to leave.

 Chapter 840 Allergic To Love?

    Chapter 840 Allergic To Love?ˇˇˇˇOnce Tang Hebe was gone with Justin, Gou Jinjin stood in front of Raelle to stop her from leaving. "Cousin, you''re already here. Why don''t you stay for a chat?"

    Raelle looked at her husband and then back at Gou Jinjin. She knew there was no point in going back to her ward. All she had to do was lie down there. And she didn''t want to do exactly that. So, she listened to Gou Jinjin and followed her inside the office with Shui Xian.

    Raelle looked at the desk name te in the office which indeed read, Deputy Director Gou Jinjin. She sat down on the couch and asked, "Aren''t you a cardiothoracic surgeon? How did you enter the administration?"

    Gou Jinjin was making tea for them when she heard Raelle''s question. Her hand paused momentarily before she continued the work hand but she still answered Raelle, "Didn''t you just say that my temper is simr to aunt Yan? You aren''t wrong. I''ve been hearing it all my life that I''m most simr to my crazy aunt whom I adore by the way. And just like Aunt Yan, I was never suitable to be a doctor." She brought the tea and served it to Raelle and Shui Xian saying, "Besides, someone has to do the desk job in this family. If we are all doctors, the management might continue to shake the foundation of our hospitals."

    She took a sip of her espresso and faced Shui Xian, "This must be our brother-inw. Shui Xian, right?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "That''s right."

    "Why are you looking at me like this?" asked Gou Jinjin.

    "Oh, it''s nothing. When I married my wife, I was told the Xiang family is very small. Only a handful of people. Now, my wife even has a cousin. I''m just trying to process it."

    Gou Jinjin chuckled, "You must be thinking that we are epting Raelle as our family just because the Xiang family had been taking care of Aunt Yan, but you''re wrong. Technically, Raelle and I are indeed cousins."

    Shui Xian raised his brow in surprise and that''s when Raelle chimed in, "My grandmother and Yanyan''s mother were sworn sisters."

    Shui Xian had a look of realization.

    "How are you feeling now, Cousin?" asked Gou Jinjin. "I''m sorry for noting to see you earlier. I was out of town for the past month and only learned you''re here this morning when I came to work." She tsked to herself, "Our family is really good at keeping secrets. I don''t even know if anyone else is aware that you''re here. Did anyonee to see you?"

    "Nope," answered Raelle.

    "That means I''m the first one to know," Gou Jinjin looked excited. "Anyway, even if they know, so what? Half of them have gone to work in remote areas as volunteering doctors. The others who can''t dy their surgeries are buried in their work. I''m the only free person."

    "Is it apetition?" asked Raelle.

    Gou Jinjin nodded her head, "It is. You think meeting you is a joke or is it easy? You got famous at a young age and Aunt Yan always proudly showed off what a genius her Elle was. Of course, she alone was enough to piss off people because of how casually she always overshadowed others with her talent. We thought our generation will be free from that torture like our parents but it didn''t work when you came into the picture. No, let me rephrase that, Aunt Yan even showed off your brother and sister''s achievements. She never even did it when she was the top talent of her time."

    "I didn''t know Yanyan loves to brag," said Shui Xian.

    "She doesn''t do it in front of us, but she is a whole different person in front of other people," said Raelle.

    "I feel like I keep learning something new about Yanyan,"mented Shui Xian.

    "That''s because Aunt is like a mystery box. She keeps giving you surprises," said Gou Jinjin. "I''ve looked up to her since I was young."

    "You are only 2 years older than me," stated Raelle. "I don''t think you''ve had that many interactions with Yanyan."

    "So what? I have heard a lot about her," said Gou Jinjin. "By the way, she didn''te to see you?"

    "Not today," answered Raelle. "I heard she is meeting an old friend today. So, she definitely won''te to see me."

    Gou Jinjin''s face fell, "Which old friend is it?"

    "That''s hard to say," was Raelle''s reply. "After all, her friends'' list is too long."

    "Hmm..." Gou Jinjin hummed in response. "Right, it''d be difficult to narrow down to one person." She took a pause and added, "By the way, you didn''t hold your wedding. How can you do that? You can''t deprive your cousins of drinking your wedding wine."

    "We''ll hold a wedding soon," said Raelle.

    Gou Jinjin nodded, "Okay. I''ll wait. Before that, youe and drink the wedding wine of my twin sister next month. We invited you to other cousins'' weddings but you had no time. But this time, you''re here. So, you have toe with Aunt Yan."

    "Your twin sister... Gou Jingjing?"

    Gou Jinjin hummed in response as she drank her espresso leisurely. "I wonder what is wrong with Jingjing. She is two minutes younger than me but still wants to jump into the pit of marriage. What is so good about it? It''ll take her some time to learn that all men are jerks!"

    "Talk about your men, keep my man out of it," said Raelle making Shui Xian smile to himself.

    Gou Jinjin looked at Raelle and then at Shui Xian. She looked confused as she asked Shui Xian, "What potion did you feed her?"

    "Love potion," was Shui Xian''s reply.

    "Eehhh!" Gou Jinjin made a face at him. "Damn! What the hell is wrong with you people in love? Why do they keeping to ruin my mood?"

    "Baby, your cousin seems to be allergic to love," said Shui Xian to Raelle.

    "I don''t think so," answered Raelle and since she said so, Shui Xian would definitely believe his wife''s words.

 Chapter 841 Where Is The Fun?

    Chapter 841 Where Is The Fun?ˇˇˇˇMu Chenyan was getting ready to pay when Su Feifei pulled out her card. Mu Chenyan stared at her, "Jie, I called you out for a meal. I can pay for it as well."

    Su Feifei smiled at her, "I know, I know you''re very rich. But I''m still the older one between us. How can I let my junior sister pay for my meal?"

    "But you said you''ll let me treat you to a meal!"

    "Didn''t I let you do it? We came to the ce you chose," was Su Feifei''s response. "Okay, it''s just a meal. Don''t sulk over it. What does it matter who pays for it?"

    "Exactly!" retorted Mu Chenyan. "Why does it matter who is paying? It''s just a meal. Can''t you let me do it?"

    "It''s still a no," said Su Feifei. "I should butter you up if I want to be your sister-inw."

    Mu Chenyan stared at Su Feifei, "I can''t believe you''re even joking about that now. Don''t do it, or else, I might really take it seriously." They got out of the private room as they continued to chat. "Jie, where are you going? I''ll drop you off. After all, my people picked you up."

    "Correction! They abducted me in broad daylight!"

    "It can''t be called abduction," said Mu Chenyan in a small voice.

    "What else should we call it?" asked Su Feifei.

    "I merely invited you for a meal," replied Mu Chenyan innocently.

    "You really stick with your words till the end," Su Feifei shook her head at Mu Chenyan.

    Mu Chenyan chuckled to herself. They wereughing when the door of another private room slid open and very familiar faces came into Mu Chenyan''s vision. And as she looked at the woman in the lead, she was momentarily stunned.

    "Sao..." Mu Chenyan bit her tongue when she realized she was about to call the woman as ''saozi''. It was old habit. How weird though. She hadn''t called that woman saozi in over twenty years and yet, she called her that now. It must be because she always called him like that. "Dr. Song, what a coincidence!"

    Song Xin''ai was equally surprised to see Mu Chenyan here. She looked at the woman beside Mu Chenyan and smiled at both of them, "It''s a pleasant surprise, Chenyan. Director Su, it''s been a while."

    "Indeed," agreed Su Feifei as she looked at Song Xin''ai. "It''s rare to find Dr. Song outside theb. So, I must say today must be a miracle day."

    "Aunt, the friend you''re meeting was Director Su Feifei?" asked Xiang Wai. Even when she asked the question, her eyes were glued to Su Feifei''s face instead of Mu Chenyan''s.

    "That''s right," said Mu Chenyan. "Su Jie is the one I came to meet. Jie, let me introduce you even though you already know them. That''s my niece, Xiang Wai and that''s my nephew, Xiang Weimin."

    Xiang Wai was the first one to extend her hand toward Su Feifei saying, "I''m Xiang Wai. It''s a pleasure to meet you, Director Su. How is Investigator Ying these days?"

    "Busy taking care of her daughter," answered Su Feifei.

    "What? She is married?" asked Xiang Wai in surprise.

    Su Feifei chuckled, "Major, she isn''t as young as you are. Of course, she is married. But she married years ago. It''s just that they waited before having their own child. So, their daughter is very young." She turned to Xiang Weimin, "Lieutenant Colonel Xiang, congrattions!"

    "Me?" Xiang Weimin pointed at himself. "What for?"

    "For your heroic act, you''re getting the first-ss honor, didn''t you hear about it?" asked Su Feifei.

    "Jie, why are you so well informed about military matters? I don''t think your organization is on that good of terms with the army,"mented Mu Chenyan.

    "I heard it from my brother-inw," answered Su Feifei. "He must have heard it from your brother." Mu Chenyan nodded her head. Su Feifei turned to Song Xin''ai and added, "I should say congrats to you too, Dr. Song. You had a major breakthrough in your research."

    "I heard your research team will be joining us next month?" asked Song Xin''ai.

    "That''s true," replied Su Feifei. "In fact, that''s why I''m here to have a proper negotiation with your research center. Can''t let my researchers work for nothing."

    "What a dedicated Director you are," said Song Xin''ai. "I guess I''ll be seeing you a lot more then."

    Su Feifei pursed her lips and looked over at Mu Chenyan who had a weird expression on her face. Su Feifei found it funny. But she definitely understood what was running through Mu Chenyan''s mind. After all, one was her ex-sister-inw and the other was the one she was trying to make her future sister-inw. What a sight to see them both working together!

    "I thought you weren''t staying for so long," said Mu Chenyan.

    "If the negotiation goes well, then you''ll be seeing me a lot more," replied Su Feifei.

    "Then I wish you luck, it''ll make it convenient for me if you''re around," said Mu Chenyan with a grin.

    Su Feifei didn''t want to pay attention to the meaning behind those words of Mu Chenyan. She could only sigh and say, "I should take my leave now."

    "I''ll drop you off," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Ask one of your people to drop me off," said Su Feifei. "You should stay. Someone must have something to say to you." As she said that, her eyes were directed toward Song Xin''ai who didn''t refute her words.

    Mu Chenyan followed her eyes and looked at Song Xin''ai as well. She nodded to herself as she agreed with Su Feifei''s words.

    Su Feifei was about to leave when she stopped and looked at Mu Chenyan saying, "Oh, when you find your secret admirer, don''t forget to let me know. I''m dying of curiosity for days now."

    Mu Chenyan stared at her in silence, "Jie, you can find the identity yourself if you''re so curious."

    Su Feifei shrugged, "Where is the fun in that?"

 Chapter 842 Spare Me!

    Chapter 842 Spare Me!ˇˇˇˇ"Aunt, you have a secret admirer?!"

    ''Awesome!'' was the thought that shed in Mu Chenyan''s mind when she heard that exim from behind her. She turned slowly and was faced with two pairs of very excited eyes trying to fish for some juicy gossip. And these two pairs of eyes belonged to her niece and nephew.

    Meanwhile, she found Song Xin''ai very calm. But there was nothing new about that. She was always just that calm and distant from society. However, even her eyes had a hint of amusement in them right now that didn''t escape Mu Chenyan''s keen eyes. After all, Mu Chenyan spent the past two decades trying to read Raelle''s nk eyes. Although it was of no use, it helped her in reading others'' eyes better. So, she gained something out of her hard work.

    Mu Chenyan sighed to herself and looked at Xiang Weimin, "I can understand Wai, but what''s wrong with you, nephew? Why are you fishing for gossip?"

    Xiang Weimin schooled his expressions before saying, "Maybe I have too much free time on hand these days so..." He didn''t continue but the answer was clear. He had time so he didn''t mind gossiping a little.

    "Aunt, don''t avoid the question!" came Xiang Wai''s impatient voice. "Who is it? Tell me!"

    "Wai, darling, it''s called a secret admirer for a reason," said Mu Chenyan. "If I knew who he is, he wouldn''t be so secret."

    "How are you sure it''s a he?" asked Song Xin''ai.

    Mu Chenyan was stunned when she heard that question and didn''t react for a while.

    "It could be a she as well," added Song Xin''ai. "After all, you''re very popr with both genders."

    Mu Chenyanughed awkwardly, "Dr. Song, you can''t joke like that before the kids."

    "They are adults," said Song Xin''ai. "I don''t think there is anything they can''t listen to. Besides, I''m just stating a fact. Are you forgetting the explosive news of the Jia family''s daughter running from her wedding? The bride even left her groom behind for you but you ruthlessly abandoned her."

    Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin''seyes glowed when they heard that and looked at Mu Chenyan with a scorching gaze making Mu Chenyan want to dig a hole into the ground to hide her face. How did ite to this? She thought people didn''t remember that incident and the news was blocked as well! But she was forgetting that at that time, Song Xin''ai was her sister-inw, how could she not know about this?

    "Song Jie, spare me!" said Mu Chenyan. "I had nothing to do with that woman! How would I know that she had a crush on me?"

    Xiang Wai pped her hands saying, "Marvelous! Aunt, you''re too good! You''re exceeding my expectations!"

    Mu Chenyan rolled her eyes and held Song Xin''ai hand as she dragged her back inside the private room. Before closing the door, she looked at her niece and nephew and said, "You both can leave. I have something to talk about with your mother." With that, she closed the door.

    "Are you embarrassed?" asked Song Xin''ai. "But when did Mu Chenyan start getting embarrassed?"

    "I am not embarrassed about my past or who I am," said Mu Chenyan. "But it''s a little weird to have my secrets being exposed before my niece and nephew. What if it ruins my prestige? They have such high achievements, what if they think their aunt is ruining their image?"

    Song Xin''ai looked at Mu Chenyan thoughtfully before saying, "You''ve grown up."

    "Huh?" Mu Chenyan was dumbfounded by thatment.

    "Now you even started considering things which seemed very unimportant to you in the past. You seem to have a lot of thoughts now." Song Xin''ai was a little surprised. Back then, it seemed like even if the sky fell down, Mu Chenyan wouldn''t care.

    "Was I thoughtless in the past?" asked Mu Chenyan. She mentally tried to evaluate herself and came to a conclusion that she definitely wasn''t thoughtless.

    "Let''s be honest now, Chenyan, you weren''t thoughtless per se but you''re very casual about life. Very carefree. You never thought about the consequences before doing anything. And you never considered others'' feelings as well. You had always been unapologetically you." She took a pause as she lowered her eyes and added, "But if I think carefully, you haven''t changed much. Back then you always cared about your image in your dearest Ge''s mind and now, you''re worried about your image before your niece and nephew. I wonder if it''s the same when you''re around Raelle? Do you care so much?"

    Mu Chenyan leaned against the wall as she folded her arms before her chest and said, "What''s the point of caring before my Elle? She can read me like an open book. I don''t have to care so much about prestige around her. She knows me way too well."

    "Just like that, you should stop caring about Wai and Weimin''s opinions as well. I know you must have been yearning to see them all these years and now that they are before you, you want to be your best version before them. But it''s not necessary. You''re their aunt. As long as they can feel your sincerity, they won''t care about who or what you are like."

    It was not like Mu Chenyan didn''t understand that at all but she still needed someone to point it out to her. It''s just that she wasn''t expecting that person to be Song Xin''ai.

    "Song Jie," called out Mu Chenyan. "I don''t think you wanted to talk about Wai or Weimin."

    Song Xin''ai nodded her head and looked into Mu Chenyan''s eyes, "Well, indeed, I didn''t want to talk about them."

    "What is it about then?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Song Xin''ai could tell from Mu Chenyan''s expressions that she already knew who she wanted to talk about. After all, Mu Chenyan had been a smart person. How could she not tell?

    "You already know," said Song Xin''ai. "It''s about Raelle."

 Chapter 843 Brain Wiring

    Chapter 843 Brain WiringˇˇˇˇSong Xin''ai looked solemn as she went on, "I''m in no position to say this but thank you. Thank you very much for doing such a wonderful job. Raelle grew up to be an amazing woman."

    Mu Chenyan was stunned when she heard that and soon a smile spread on her lips, "How can I take the credit for that? She was born an amazing woman. I have done nothing."

    "Only you''d say you didn''t do anything," said Song Xin''ai. "I can see a shadow of you on her. You might have not taught her the textbook knowledge. But you did groom her. You have a huge credit for what she is today. No one can deny that truth."

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips but one could see a sheen of water on her eyes at the moment. "Well, if you say it, then I definitely did a good job. But all I did is staying by her side. She didn''t need me in her life mostly."

    "And you think staying beside her is a small matter?" asked Song Xin''ai. "When did you be so humble? You didn''t just stay with her. You became her pir of support."

    "Song Jie, did you meet Raelle?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "I just went to see her beforeing for lunch," answered Song Xin''ai.

    "How was it?" asked Mu Chenyan. "How was meeting her? How was the second conversation with her? Did it feel like looking into a mirror?"

    Song Xin''ai''s lip curled up slightly as she nodded, "It did feel like looking into the mirror. But at the same time, she is so much more. She... She is a mentally strong person and she is mature, sensible, fearless."

    "And also a little emotionless," added Mu Chenyan.

    Song Xin''ai gave her a look.

    "Don''t look at me like that, that''s what people have to say about her," said Mu Chenyan. "You''re right. She is indeed mature, sensible, fearless, and all that but the problem is, she didn''t learn it. It felt like she was born with all that. Even when she was a kid, she was sensible to the point that it broke my heart. I wanted to take her out to have fun but she wanted to stay at the library to explore the world of books. Honestly speaking, I couldn''t rte with her."

    "How was it? Raising her?" asked Song Xin''ai.

    "A little tiring," answered Mu Chenyan. "Most of the time, I had to keep running to make sure I could keep up with the pace with which she was growing up. At times, I failed but it didn''t matter because she always picked me up when I failed rather than finding me a failure. And when she did that, for the first time in my life, I fell in love with losing. I realized that failure wasn''t all that bad. It had its own merit."

    She was still smiling foolishly to herself as she went on, "My godmother spent years giving me lectures, beating me, punishing me, scolding me, and even grounding me just so she could teach me to be a better person. The funniest thing is my Elle taught me all those things without even trying. She taught me how to be patient, how to ept failure, how to be a better cook, how to control my anger and many other things that I found a hassle. You''re right earlier. I did grow up and I did let go of my casual personality. I don''t get into useless arguments or fights anymore either. Elle says, what''s the point of fighting? I''ll hurt myself as well."

    "Although you''ve always been a remarkable person, you seem to be dazzling even more now," said Song Xin''ai. "You should be proud of yourself, Chenyan."

    "I am proud," said Mu Chenyan. "Raelle Xiang is Mu Chenyan''s pride. It''s something no one can change. She''ll always be my pride." She took a pause and added, "Jie, she didn''t hurt you or anything, did she?"

    Song Xin''ai shook her head, "Her words aren''t hurtful. In our first meeting, we met as estranged mother and daughter. This time, I felt like I was talking to a very familiar stranger. Someone who could understand me better than the world. It''s actually a wonderful experience to talk to her."

    Mu Chenyan sighed, "If she grew up beside you, you both would be besties. Trust me, she talks like you. Straight to the point. And she also offends people as you did."

    "So what? If people are offended by her truths, they need to reflect on themselves rather than pointing at her." She looked a little dazed as she said, "And you''re wrong. If she grew up beside me, she wouldn''t be what she is today. I''m the worst mother and she doesn''t deserve that."

    Mu Chenyan looked at her and said, "Trust me, Song Jie, I''ve seen worse than you. You aren''t the worst mother out there."

    "When did you be so nice?" asked Song Xin''ai jokingly. "As if I can''t tell what I am."

    Mu Chenyan shrugged, "I just realized, you still seem to look down on yourself."

    "Do I?" wondered Song Xin''ai out loud. "Maybe I do." She shook her head and continued, "Anyway, after talking to you, I finally understand better why Raelle said her life doesn''t just belong to herself. It belongs to you too."

    Mu Chenyan was taken aback, "What? She said that?"

    "Why are you surprised?"

    Mu Chenyan told her honestly, "She is a genius like you. Geniuses have their brains wired differently. For the longest time in her childhood, I was scared that she would lose interest in life and would think about dying. I even found some rare books for her just to make sure she keeps her interest in living alive. But I always felt like her biggest reason to live were I and Elder Xiang."

    Song Xin''ai chuckled softly, "Sorry forughing but I never thought I''d see you acting like a worried old mother. But honestly, you''re thinking too much."

 Chapter 844 Blood Is Boiling

    Chapter 844 Blood Is Boilingˇˇˇˇ"Even though Raelle thinks differently than most people, you really don''t have to think so much about it," said Song Xin''ai. "Her strongest point is, that she is eager to learn. That point alone is enough to keep her will to live alive. She likes to explore things. People who like exploring don''t get bored of living."

    "Even if I know that, I can''t stop myself from worrying," replied Mu Chenyan.

    Song Xin''ai stared at her before saying, "Oh what a surprise! The might Mu Chenyan has fallen. She actually has a weakness now. Never thought this day woulde." Just from this conversation, Song Xin''ai already deduced how much importance Raelle had in Mu Chenyan''s life.

    "You''re right," agreed Mu Chenyan with her words. "When I didn''t have her around, I wasn''t scared of anything. Even death couldn''t trouble me because everything was just pointless. But now... I get scared very easily when it concerns her."

    "You found a good husband for her," said Song Xin''ai. "Although he seems to bepletely different from her, that''s actually good."

    "Right?" Mu Chenyan looked proud when she spoke. "I picked him not just because he was a good person. It was also because he was so much different than Elle. He has what she doesn''t. Since they both can offer what the other person needs, theyplete each other perfectly."

    "Did no one know about her pregnancy?" asked Song Xin''ai.

    Mu Chenyan''s mood fell when he heard that question. "Of course, not. Will I even let her step out of her room if I knew she was pregnant? It''s my fault for taking this into consideration and just believing in her. How could I trust her with her health? Even if she had amon cold, I''d keep her in bed for days. Would I have let her roam around at a banquet if I knew she was pregnant? I almost became a grandaunt!" Her hands clenched as her eyes raged once again, "Argh! Why did I send that bitch to the police so soon? My blood is boiling again!"

    Song Xin''ai lifted her hand and patted her shoulder, "Stop being so harsh on yourself."

    "I can''t help it either," said Mu Chenyan.

    She took deep breaths to calm down while Song Xin''ai raised her brows at Mu Chenyan. In the past, Mu Chenyan''s temper won''t go down unless she vented it. Now, she even learned to control her emotions. What progress! And seeing it, Song Xin''ai actually felt very happy in her heart.

    "Song Jie, how are you?" asked Mu Chenyan all of a sudden stunning Song Xin''ai.

    "I''m fine," answered Song Xin''ai.

    Mu Chenyan tsked at that response. "You''re still very used to saying you''re fine, eh?" Song Xin''ai smiled but didn''t say anything else.

    "About that secret admirer of yours..." started Song Xin''ai as she took out her phone and ced it before Mu Chenyan. "It''s about this if I''m not wrong."

    Mu Chenyan looked at the photo of the same painting once again. Her ex-sister-inw and future sister-inw both showed her the same thing. She wasn''t sure how to feel about this.

    But she still nodded honestly. "Yeah. It''s about this."

    Song Xin''ai rummaged out tickets from her bag and gave them to her, "Since you want to know who is behind it, isn''t it better to go and attend the exhibition yourself?"

    Mu Chenyan stared at the exhibition passes but didn''t take them just yet. She looked up at Song Xin''ai, "Jie, why do you have this? You aren''t exactly someone who can resonate with art. You''ve never even liked these things. That''s why you mostly had nothing to talk about with your mother-inw."

    "A person like me still can''t understand the beauty of these art pieces," replied Song Xin''ai. "However, someone sent me that photo asking if the person in the painting is you. I said no. So, that person sent me the tickets and asked me to go myself to check it in person."

    "Who asked if it''s me? How can they tell it''s me? You can only see half of my face," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Chenyan, people who knew you back then can''t mistake that''s you," said Song Xin''ai. "By the way, earlier I was joking. This painting is definitely by a man."

    "You don''t know the artist?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "He doesn''t appear before the public," replied Song Xin''ai.

    "Coward! He dares to only hide behind anonymity to save himself." She humped to herself and added, "You don''t have to give me these passes. I can get my own."

    "Tomorrow is thest day of the exhibition," said Song Xin''ai. "And I certainly am not fond of such activities. It''s practically a waste of time if I go. I can''t even appreciate the artist''s hard work. So, it''s better if someone who really knows about art goes there."

    "That just reminded me, my godmother used to say I should have a mild temper. The hands that paint should be steady and the heart of the person calm. She said a violent person like me doesn''t deserve to pick up the paintbrush ever again."

    "And that''s when you stopped learning painting from her," added Song Xin''ai.

    "Well, she wasn''t wrong," said Mu Chenyan. "Besides, my interest in painting onlysted for that long anyway. After that, I did pick up my paintbrush. Twice actually. One time was to teach my Elle how to paint. That didn''t go so well since Elle turned out to be someone who only liked looking at a painting but had no interest in learning it." She smiled to herself at the memory of that. "And the other time was to teach..." she didn''t continue but her brows knitted together. She took the phone from Song Xin''ai again and looked at the painting once more.

    "It seems you don''t even have to go over to know who is the secret admirer," said Song Xin''ai with a knowing smile.

    She took the exhibition tickets from Song Xin''ai and said, "I have to go to be certain."

 Chapter 845 Lack Of Trust

    Chapter 845 Lack Of TrustˇˇˇˇAlthough Mu Chenyan asked Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin to leave, they were still standing outside. Well, one was standing while the other had her ear stuck to the closed door trying to hear what was happening inside. But the voices inside were low so she couldn''t understand anything.

    Xiang Weimin could only shake his head at his sister''s actions. What else could he do now?

    "Why can''t I hear anything?" asked Xiang Wai in exasperation.

    "Then why don''t you give up already?" retorted Xiang Weimin.

    "Ge, I''m not the kind of person to give up so easily," said Xiang Wai.

    Xiang Weimin nodded his head as he said, "Indeed." After all, if it was easy to give up, why would she hold on to Zhai Yanjun for ten years?

    When she couldn''t hear anything, she stood beside her brother and asked, "What do you think they are talking about? Do you think they are fighting?"

    "Are you forgetting that our mother doesn''t fight?"

    Xiang Wai nodded but added, "But our aunt does."

    "Aunt would never get into a fight with someone who can''t defend," said Xiang Weimin.

    "That''s also true," Xiang Wai muttered to herself. "Our Aunt has really lived a very colorful life. I mean she even made a bride run from her wedding. All hail, Aunt Yan! She is powerful!"

    Xiang Weimin gave her a strange look, "Sis, you seem to be particrly interested in this matter."

    "My admiration for her has reached a peak now, Ge," said Xiang Wai. "I couldn''t move the heart of a guy after years and yet she bent someone. Shouldn''t I admire her?" She tsked to herself, "Papa was always right. My Aunt could really publish a book named, ''Adventures of Brother Yan.''"

    "Did dad say that to you?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "Yeah," Xiang Wai nodded her head.

    "Should we leave?"

    "No," she shook her head. "Let''s wait. We are going to the same home. Why not go back with Aunt?"

    Xiang Weimin shrugged, "Sure."

    "Ge, are you tired? Should I bring a chair to make youfortable?"

    "I''m fine," said Xiang Weimin. "Don''t fuss."

    "Oh..." She pursed her lips and thought about something before bringing up the topic, "Ge, your routine visit to the doctor ising in two days. I''ll go with you to the hospital, okay?"

    Xiang Weimin''s lips curled up. How could he not understand her intention when she was making it so obvious? "There is no need for that. I can walk on my own."

    "I''ll drive the car," offered Xiang Wai.

    "We have a chauffeur at home," said Xiang Weimin.

    "What if you need something?" asked Xiang Wai. "When visiting a doctor, one should always go with a family member. You can trust me. I''ll take good care of you."

    Xiang Weimin sighed, "Even if youe with me to the hospital, there is a high chance you won''t get to see Raelle." He had to remind her so that she could stop looking for excuses to tag along with him.

    Xiang Wai cleared her throat and rubbed her nose saying, "What are you saying Ge? I''m just worried about you. Of course, I know I might not get to see her."

    "Fine, I''ll take you with me since you''re making so many excuses," said Xiang Weimin.

    She looked happy when she heard that, "Thanks, Ge! But you can''t me me for that. You have a ready-made excuse to visit the hospital. I have to work myself and look for my own excuses."

    "Today isn''t your day," said Xiang Weimin. "In the morning, you''re looking for excuses to squirm your way out of the blind date, and now this. Both times, you seemed to fail."

    "How did I fail? Didn''t you agree to take me with you?"

    "I only took pity on you."

    Xiang Wai made a face at him. She was again reminded of that stupid blind date. What a mess!

    The door of the private room opened. Mu Chenyan and Song Xin''ai came out. Xiang Wai looked at both of them carefully from the top of their heads to the tips of their toes. Nothing seemed amiss. Not even a hair was out of ce. It seemed the talk was quite civil.

    "Are you worried that I beat your mother?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Xiang Wai grinned, "There is always a possibility of that."

    Song Xin''ai chuckled softly while Mu Chenyan gaped in disbelief. "Don''t worry, daughter. Your Aunt isn''t that unreasonable."

    "Dear niece, yourck of trust in me is hurtful."

    Xiang Wai scratched the tip of her nose as she told, "Grandfather said, I can expect anything from you. There is nothing that you don''t dare to do. Only things you don''t want to do. He said Raelle got this attitude from you."

    Mu Chenyan tsked, "Elder Xiang is really ruining my image now." She shook her head and looked at her niece and nephew, "Didn''t I tell you both to leave?"

    "We''re waiting for you," replied Xiang Wai.

    "We thought since we have the same destination, we can go back together," added Xiang Weimin.

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head, "Oh... Then let''s go now. You all already had lunch and so did I. How about I treat you to some bubble tea?"

    "Okay," Xiang Wai readily agreed to the suggestion. Then she wrapped her arm around Mu Chenyan''s arm and asked, "By the way, Aunt, your life adventures sound very interesting. How about sharing some more? Something like that bride..."

    Before she could continue, Mu Chenyan ced her hand on her mouth to stop her, "Darling, let''s not walk down that road."

    "Aunt~" Xiang Wai dragged her voice and even leaned her body towards Mu Chenyan acting a little spoiled.

    Song Xin''ai was walking behind them with Xiang Weimin by her side. Her eyes were glued on her daughter who seemed to have be expressive. Whenever she saw Xiang Wai at her maternal family''s house, her daughter was always alone and quiet. She had no interest in even acting spoiled with her own mother but now, she was willing to y tricks on Mu Chenyan. Song Xin''ai''s heart rxed when she saw that.

 Chapter 846 Brother Yan

    Chapter 846 Brother YanˇˇˇˇTrue to her words, Mu Chenyan really bought bubble tea for everyone happily. Earlier she almost lost control and fell into Xiang Wai''s cuteness trap. Fortunately, she sobered up and put a brake on her losing rationality. How could she spill the beans of her oh-so-heroic deeds from her youth? Although it sounded exciting in her head and once she was proud of her troublesome persona, she was actually finding it all childish now that she thought about it.

    But the me for that was on Raelle. Because Mu Chenyan never hid anything from her and even Elder Xiang loved to amuse Raelle with Mu Chenyan''s heroic stories, Raelle literally knew everything about what Mu Chenyan had done. And that''s why Raelle had even said, ''Yanyan, you''re childish.''

    Mu Chenyan felt her arrogance bursting into bubbles at that moment. Sigh! Her pride named Raelle Xiang actually thought her tough persona was childish. How could she live with that?

    "Song Jie, do you want me to drop you somewhere?" asked Mu Chenyan as she bit the straw between her teeth.

    "Take care of yourself, Chenyan," said Song Xin''ai. "And..."

    "Are you also gonna say I should start living my own life now?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Song Xin''ai nodded her head, "I think you really should. It''s about time you live for yourself."

    "I''ve always lived for myself," said Mu Chenyan. "You all just think too much."

    Song Xin''ai shook her head at Mu Chenyan''s nonchnt response. It was really hard for her to agree with Mu Chenyan''s words. Because she really didn''t think Mu Chenyan was living her own life. It seemed more like everything revolved around Raelle. Where was she thinking about herself? Before it was just Raelle but now Wai and Weimin were in the picture and as much as Song Xin''ai knew Mu Chenyan, she knew this woman''s life will soon start revolving around these two as well.

    "Brother Yan! Brother Yan!"

    Mu Chenyan stiffened when she heard those loud voicesing from behind her. It''s been a while since someone called her like that.

    She slowly turned around to look at the people who were shouting ''Brother Yan'' and felt a headacheing on when she realized that her niece and nephew were still standing there.

    Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin had very interesting expressions when they noticed these middle-aged men called Mu Chenyan as Brother Yan. They were definitely older than their aunt but seemed like little brothers in front of their aunt. This was really very interesting.

    "Mom, do you know what''s happening here?" asked Xiang Wai to her mother.

    Song Xin''ai also looked at the gangsters like men and sighed. She looked at the man in the lead who had a gold chain around his neck and narrowed her eyes before she told her children, "They are just your aunt''s little followers. Your want is known as Brother Yan on the streets. You shouldn''t be surprised by all this." She looked at the time and said, "Okay, I''m leaving now. Take care of yourself. I''ll see you bothter."

    Since she didn''t have that much time to spare, she didn''t stick around to get entertained by the middle-aged men crying in the middle of the street right now as they looked at Mu Chenyan with a look of grievance.

    "Brother Yan, why didn''t you let us brothers know you''re back? Are you really abandoning us?"

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her eyebrows and felt like smacking that bald head.

    "Drop another tear and I''m gonna crack open your brain!"

    The sound ofints and wailing instantly died down as everyone stood at attention. Mu Chenyan gave them a look of displeasure.

    "How did you know I''m here?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    The bald man opened his mouth, "It''s because the restaurant is one of our businesses. One of the underlings recognized you so we rushed here. Who knew you already left the restaurant? Good thing, you are still close."

    Mu Chenayn raised her brow, "That means you''re doing proper business these days, eh? No more cornering little girls in the alleys?"

    The bald man turned red when he heard that and cleared his throat awkwardly, "Brother Yan, don''t joke like that. We stopped doing that from the moment you educated us. We never forgot your education." Of course, this education was crude and came with a thorough beating that left them sore for months. How could they forget that education?

    "Brother Yan, when did youe back?" asked the skinny man. "Give us a chance to entertain you."

    "Yes, yes. Brother Yan, how about a meal?"

    "I just had lunch," answered Mu Chenyan. "Besides, if you''re so sincere, why ask me to pay for the meal in your restaurant?"

    "Who did it? Which bastard asked Brother Yan to pay for her meal?" They instantly boiled up. "Brother Yan, you don''t worry at all. I''ll give you a proper answer for this mistake."

    "Forget it," said Mu Chenyan. "I''m not the one who paid anyway."

    "Brother Yan, how abouting to my casino?"

    "Why? So eager to lose money?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    The man who wore a cross earring in one of his ears had his smile frozen and his head shook like a rattle drum. He seemed to be the youngest in the group. He said, "No, no. I was just calling you over for some drinks. What''s the fun in ying?"

    "Tsk. So scared to lose some dirty money?"

    The others gave a disgusted look to the man with an earring.

    "It''s just money. How can we care about it when entertaining our Brother Yan? Brother Yan, youe over whenever you want. I''ll personally y mahjong with you."

    "Ahem! Ahem!" Suddenly someone faked a cough to get some attention and asked, "Aunt, are you gonna gamble?"

    Mu Chenyan''s eyes widened and she bit her tongue. She smiled innocently at her niece, "No. how is that possible? Gambling is such a bad thing. How can I do it?"

 Chapter 847 Tiring Life

    Chapter 847 Tiring LifeˇˇˇˇMu Chenyan hurriedly gave a look to the group of men who instantly understood and started, "Yes, yes, Brother Yan doesn''t gamble at all."

    "How can our amazing Brother Yan have such a hobby?"

    "Gambling is a sphemy to Brother Yan''s prestige!"

    Xiang Wai wanted tough at these men who were praising her aunt to the heaven. More like they were ttering her but Xiang Wai didn''t mind it at all. Even though Mu Chenyan''s lips were twitching, Xiang Wai found this sceneical.

    Mu Chenyan cleared her throat, "I''lle to see you all another day. Today, I''m with my niece and nephew. No time for you all."

    "Oh, so this is Brother Yan''s niece and nephew."

    "What a temperament! Definitely worthy of being Brother Yan''s family!"

    "A dragon''s family will only have more dragons. How can pheasants like uspare?"

    "Shut up! And scram already!" came Mu Chenyan''s harsh voice which startled them and they immediately bowed and ran away. Mu Chenyan sighed heavily, "I should have checked my horoscope before stepping out of the house today."

    "Aunt, how many surprises do you have in store?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "Dear nephew, aunt is really tired," said Mu Chenyan in response.

    "So when people say you have all sorts of people on your friends'' list, they aren''t lying, eh?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Yes, your aunt has mixed into all sorts of people and met with all sorts of troubles. You really shouldn''t be so surprised," was Mu Chenyan''s reply. "Let''s go back now. I''m afraid we might run into more nuisances."

    Even though they came in different cars, in the end, they decided to go back in the same car. Mu Chenyan leaned her head back and closed her eyes as she thought about what just happened. She only came out to meet Su Feifei but ended up running into Song Xin''ai and then those troublesome old men!

    Even though she was quite a figure as Brother Yan but at the end of the day, as Raelle had said, it was nothing to brag about. It only showed how childish Mu Chenyan once was.

    "Aunt, I have a question."

    "Let''s not talk about my past," said Mu Chenyan.

    "It''s not about that," replied Xiang Wai. "I''m just genuinely curious. You really don''t hate my mom?"

    Mu Chenyan didn''t open her eyes, "I don''t."

    "Why?"

    "I just don''t," replied Mu Chenyan. "Your mom gave birth to you two and gave me such sweet niece and nephew. And then she even gave me Raelle. How can I hate her of all people?"

    "Your reasoning is weird," stated Xiang Wai.

    "I think you''re quite slow to realize that not just your aunt''s reasoning is weird, your aunt is equally weird," said Mu Chenyan calmly.

    "I don''t think you''re weird," said Xiang Wai. "Right, Ge? Isn''t aunt very sweet?"

    Xiang Weimin hummed in response and added, "Not just sweet, aunt is very warm as well."

    Mu Chenyan didn''t open her eyes but her lips curled up slightly when she heard thatpliment. It touched the deepest part of her heart. Such a simple thing really managed to touch her heart.

    "Aunt," Xiang Wai called out again. "About my blind date..."

    "When one is high on emotions, one should not make a decision. Because it''ll never end well. Especially when you can''t even stand by that decision and if you do, it''ll only make you regret everything."

    Xiang Wai made a face when she heard that.

    Mu Chenyan''s eyes suddenly opened and she continued, "Wai, what are you running from?"

    "What?" Xiang Wai was startled.

    "Even though you''re a little naivepared to Weimin and Raelle, I don''t think you are someone who loves to make hasty decisions. But yesterday, first you insisted that you won''t go on a blind date and then suddenly agreed. What changed in that small period of time? What forced you? Why do I feel like you''re hiding something?"

    Xiang Wai didn''t know how to react. In the end, she asked, "You think I''m naive?"

    "Weimin is someone who likes to hide his feelings, Raelle is very true to her thoughts, but you like to run and hide. Even when you know you can''t run, you still try your best to run for as long as you can. But darling, running isn''t the solution. You''ll only get tired. Don''t live such a tiring life. It''ll only hurt you and the people who love you."

    Xiang Wai looked up at her brother as she said, "Ge also said I live a very tiring life and now you said it too. Am I really living a tiring life? Is that why I feel like giving up?"

    "Who said you can give up?" asked Mu Chenyan. "If you''re tired, take a break. There is no need to keep up with the pace of people around you. You can walk at your own pace. Take it slow. After resting, you can start again."

    "What if while I''m resting, everyone has left me behind in the dust?" she asked.

    "Those who are meant to be with you will eventually wait for you to match your pace. Those who don''t match your pace were never meant to be beside you."

    Xiang Wai suddenly hugged Mu Chenyan and ced her head on her shoulder saying, "Aunt, you really know how to talk."

    "I raised Raelle Xiang," said Mu Chenyan. "I had to be good with words."

    Xiang Wai chuckled at that.

    "Aunt, you love to use Raelle as your shield,"mented Xiang Weimin.

    Mu Chenyan smiled to herself, "It always works though. But it''s not that I use her as a shield. It''s the ultimate truth that for the past twenty-five years, my life only had Raelle. It''s hard not to think about her."

    The rest of the ride was silent but Xiang Wai didn''t let Mu Chenyan''s body go. She was still hugging her and found that her aunt was really fun to hug. She at least found itfortable and enjoyable. She realized why Hyson loved to act spoiled around Mu Chenyan. There were benefits. She should keep learning from him.

 Chapter 848 Very Lonely

    Chapter 848 Very LonelyˇˇˇˇHyson looked down at his phone screen and then looked up at the sign in front of him. It seemed like he was at the right location but he didn''t expect this location to be such a ce.

    "There is still time before the sunset," he muttered to himself. "Why are people calling me to a bar?"

    More than the former part, he was confused about thetter part. Obviously, people can drink in daylight who made the rule that they can''t? Who is he to question that? But did he look like someone who was a patron of such establishments? He did not think he looked like someone who frequented a bar.

    Still, he walked inside silently. In the sophisticated bar, there weren''t that many people at this time. As the office hours just ended, the people were yet toe to hang out at such a ce. And that made it easier for Hyson to find the person who called him here.

    He went to the bar counter and sat down on the high stool.

    "Sister Xin!" he called out to the woman who was staring at the empty ss before her. Her eyes didn''t seem clear which meant she already had a few drinks. Hyson sighed to himself. He never liked dealing with drunk people.

    He was enjoying himself at home when he received a call from his agent, Li Xinxin who asked him to meet her. She even sent her location and asked him to hurry up. Hyson was still confused about when even Li Xinxine back to the city when she already hung up the call and he couldn''t even inquire what it was all about.

    But considering that he actually left his agent behind while he ran away from shooting, he was feeling a little guilty. Nope, he was not guilty that he ran away, he was guilty that he troubled others. After all, when his family was concerned how could he not run?

    Even though he ran away so irresponsibly, his agent cleaned up the mess he left behind and the mess he created by not wearing a mask when he took the flight back home. She cleaned up everything for her. So, since she was a good agent, Hyson decided to just apany her to the bar and figure out what was going on.

    "Hyson!"

    Hyson raised his brow when he heard her calling him. From her voice, she definitely didn''t seem drunk at all. But Hyson could tell she was tipsy.

    "Yes, Sister Xin?"

    "I called you here for two things," said Li Xinxin. "First, I''ll introduce you to your assistant. Second, I have a couple of scripts I want you to choose from."

    Hyson blinked at her as she pulled out the scripts from her bag and slid it towards him. He didn''t take it. He silently looked at her for a while before speaking, "I already told you I don''t n on developing my career in acting. It''s not my field."

    "I know," answered Li Xinxin. "But after the production group released the promotional pictures on the official Weibo ount, there is a lot of discussion going on. Needless to say, your poprity is very attractive to some directors and they are willing to give a rookie actor like you a chance. There is nothing wrong with it. It''s always a win-win situation. You''ll get more exposure and the production groups will get your fandom''s attention." She rubbed her temples before adding, "I am not saying you have to pick one. I''m just showing the scripts to you and making all the options clear to you. Even if you end up not choosing any script, it doesn''t matter."

    Hyson didn''t say anything. He took the scripts but his eyes were still on Li Xinxin. "Sister Xin, you had to call me to a bar for this?"

    "Not a very good ce for a meeting, eh?" she responded andughed at herself. "I must have momentarily lost my mind. You don''t even like drinking. Why did I call you out here?"

    "Maybe because you wanted someone to apany you for a couple of drinks?" he suggested. "You look very lonely right now."

    Li Xinxin stiffened when she heard his blunt words. She looked very lonely. What a surprise! She felt very lonely as well right now. She turned her eyes to Hyson and wondered how this guy figured out such things so easily.

    "Sometimes, you shouldn''t be so honest, Hyson," she said to him. "It hurts more when you point out the things people are running from."

    Hyson looked at her carefully and asked, "What''s wrong, Sister Xin? You don''t seem like someone who''d drink at this time of the day without a reason."

    "I had a fight with my boyfriend, is this reason good enough for you?" she asked.

    Hyson paused and pursed his lips, "Oh, I didn''t even know you had a boyfriend. But yes, you''re right. This reason is definitely good enough."

    "Oh my gosh! Can you be any more insincere?" she gaped at him in disbelief. "At least try to sound less perfunctory when you say that."

    Hyson cleared his throat saying, "Sorry. I just think no reason is good enough to drink. But that''s just my opinion. You can totally ignore me." He took a pause and added, "To show my sincerity, I''ll sit here with you and you drink as much as you want. Don''t worry about anything. I''ll drop you off at your ce."

    She suddenly pinched his cheek and said, "Why are you so adorable?"

    "When I look in the mirror, I ask myself the same question," was Hyson''s response which made Li Xinxinugh out loud.

    Hyson also smiled to himself seeing herugh and looked towards the bartenders. He called out to the one closest to him and said, "Excuse me, I want a lemonade and just give my sister Xin a refill here." When the bartender before him turned to face him, Hyson was stunned.

 Chapter 849 Compassionate Young Master

    Chapter 849 Compassionate Young MasterˇˇˇˇHyson''s shock didn''te from the fact that he recognized the person before him. No, it was purely the visuals of the person that attacked him and made a clear hit. He had never been this appalled by someone''s beauty before.

    Not even Raelle! After all, he watched Raelle growing up before his eyes so no matter how gorgeous she was, the impact was not big on Hyson. Besides, Raelle reminded him of aloof fairies. The person before him had a different aura.

    Those emerald green eyes stared back at Hyson and he felt like he was drowning in those orbs. Those were such enchanting eyes. He watched those lips part and heard a heart-stopping voice ask, "Lemonade?"

    Seeing how he didn''t react, the person''s lips curled up in a lop-sided grin which left Hyson gaping. Then he heard a click of the fingers and snapped back to reality. "Huh? What? What were you saying?"

    The person before him didn''t lose that devilish lop-sided grin as he asked, "I asked do really want to order a lemonade at a bar?"

    "Can''t I?" asked Hyson in response.

    The person before him gave him a look before nodding, "Sure, you can."

    "Young Master..."

    Hyson heard someone calling and looked over. He noticed how the handsomed with those green orbs raised his hand to stop that man and waved him off. It suddenly clicked when Hyson noticed that the person before him was dressed differently than other bartenders.

    "You''re not a bartender, are you?" asked Hyson.

    "But this Young Master can give you your lemonade," came the reply in that maic voice once again. "Does it make a difference who this Young Master is?"

    Hyson thought about it and shook his head, "Not really."

    "Wow!" Hyson looked at Li Xinxin who supported her face with both her hands and was staring straight at the guy behind the bar counter. Her eyes were sparkling as if she found a treasure. "Xiao Gege, have you signed with apany yet?"

    Hyson felt like facepalming himself. Just now his agent was tipsy but now she looked sober enough to recruit talents. Wonderful!

    "Little girl, this Young Master is definitely older than you," replied the guy never letting his smirk drop. Well, the smirk looked deadly on his handsome face anyway.

    Li Xinxin stubbornly shook her head, "Xiao Gege, you''re very handsome. As in so handsome that you''re making me want tomit some crime here."

    A ss of lemonade was suddenly ced before Hyson, "Here''s is your lemonade. Enjoy!"

    Hyson felt like he could feel some gazes stuck on his back that seemed like they were ready to pounce on him. He turned around but found no one there. He found it strange. He definitely thought someone was looking at him and that too with a look of envy.

    Li Xinxin didn''t give up and even pulled out her business card, "Xiao Gege, look at this. I''m really an agent." She held Hyson''s face showing to the man as she continued, "Look, this is my artist. Once you sign with me, you''ll get such a cute little brother for free. Isn''t the bargain worth it?"

    Hyson''s face twitched. He was now the part of the bargain to dupe someone into signing with his manager? Unbelievable!

    "Sister Xin, considering I signed first, wouldn''t I be the Senior brother and he, Junior brother?"

    Li Xinxin shook her head, "We aren''t that strict about things." She looked eagerly at the man, "So, what do you say? Want to sign with ourpany? I''ll offer the best contract."

    "Thanks for the offer," came the reply. "But not interested."

    "Ru!"

    "Yes?" The man looked over and his earlier smirk turned into a genuine smile as he found who was the one calling him. At least, Hyson could tell the difference between the genuine smile and the devilish smirk which was definitely used to charm people. But he had to say, this man''s eyes were enough to charm someone, adding that handsome smirk was just foul y!

    "nning on entering the entertainment industry now?" asked the neer who sat down a few seats away from Hyson but was looking at the man behind the bar counter. "Why bully the youngsters?"

    "When did Young Master Ru ever bully anyone?" the haughty voice was so pleasing to listen to. "You won''t find anotherpassionate person like me out there."

    *Cough! Cough!*

    A fit of violent coughing made the Young Master Ru''s eyes narrow dangerously. "You have some opinion, cousin brother?"

    The cousin brother shook his head while trying to control his coughing. He choked on air when he heard that but didn''t dare to continue. "How is that possible? Our Ru is the mostpassionate. Who dares to say otherwise?"

    Young Master Ru rolled his eyes and turned out to make a drink.

    Every move was done handsomely and made anyone''s eyes stuck. Even Hyson was unable to look away. Soon, a pretty pink-colored drink appeared before Li Xinxin, "Little girl, drinking won''t mend your heart. Don''t drown your sorrow in alcohol. Enjoy the drink."

    He gave a nce at Hyson and walked towards his cousin brother.

    Li Xinxin looked at the ss of pretty pink drink in awe before asking loudly, "You really don''t want to think about signing the contract? I can really take you to the peak of poprity." She slumped down, "What a shame! How can people betray their life purpose like this?"

    "Excuse me?" Hyson didn''t understand what she was even talking about.

    "If Heaven gave you such good looks, it''s your responsibility to share your looks and cleanse people''s eyes with your beauty. How can you even think about hiding these good looks?"

    Hyson pulled the drink away from her, "Sister Xin, I think you should drink less. You have lost your mind."

    Li Xinxin looked at him unhappily and snatched the drink back, "Don''t even think about taking this. If I can''t have the beauty, at least let me admire the drink that came from those beautiful hands. Don''t disturb. Let me admire properly."

 Chapter 850 Ritual

    Chapter 850 RitualˇˇˇˇHyson had two ck lines on his forehead when he heard Li Xinxin''s nonsense. He truly thought he got a ''normal'' manager but how was it possible that anyone around him could be ''normal''? He wasn''t normal himself at this point.

    He tsked to himself when he noticed how Li Xinxin was not only seriously admiring the drink before her but also taking her phone to click a hundred photos from different angles. He really couldn''t understand this behavior.

    "Sister Xin, you... Restrain yourself a little," he couldn''t help but say. "I can almost see you drooling."

    Li Xinxin tsked at him, "What do you know? You''re handsome yourself. So, it doesn''t matter to you. It''s different for me. I don''t get to see such a visual feast every day."

    "You work in the entertainment industry," reminded Hyson.

    "And you think those white-faced beauties canpare with this Xiao Gege? Think again!" With a dreamy look in her eyes, she looked toward the green-eyed man and went on, "He''s so tall and handsome as hell. He''s so bad but he does it so well~"

    Hyson''s jaw dropped when he heard her humming these lyrics.

    Li Xinxin noticed his reaction and instantly covered his ears saying, "I''m a sinner. How can I taint your innocent soul? Just forget what I said."

    Hyson pushed her hands away, "You really know how to talk once you''re drunk."

    Li Xinxin cleared her throat and finally picked up the drink before her, as she took a sip, her eyes dazzled with an obsessive light, "Not only the person is handsome, this drink is a masterpiece. What is this exactly?" Even though she asked it, she wasn''t really looking for an answer as she took another small sip and savored it in her mouth before swallowing it.

    Hyson found her reaction to be a little too exaggerated. But what could be done about that? He shook his head and bit the straw in his mouth. Slowly, he took a sip of the lemonade and then paused. He looked at the lemonade ss again in thought. Wasn''t it just an ordinary lemonade? Why did it taste so good?

    He suddenly looked at Li Xinxin who was still sipping slowly on that pink masterpiece of a drink before her and wondered if she was really exaggerating because of the filter she wore or was the drink really that good? Shrugging to himself, he went back to drinking his lemonade.

    "Cousin, are you dying?"

    Hyson heard the voice of that Young Master from the side. Although they were a distance away, the bar was currently empty so he could still faintly hear their voices.

    "Are you cursing me, Ru?" asked the other man.

    "Blimey! How can you think about me like that? I''m utterly gutted right now."

    The other man snickered, "As if it''s that easy to hurt your feelings. Forget about that, what are you doing here?"

    "I''m here on official business, Cousin Zhu Jie!" replied Young Master Ru.

    "Just say it''s confidential," replied Zhu Jie.

    "Don''t get your knickers in a twist now!" There was a small pause, "By the way, I''m serious. You really look like you''re dying. It''s not like you became the father the first time, why do you look so knackered?"

    "When we had the twins, it wasn''t this difficult," answered Zhu Jie. "Most of the time, neither of us had to keep watch. If little Juan even cried, Bao''er would just put her to sleep. But now... I feel like I''m gonna lose my mind."

    "Tsk, tsk, tsk. It''s hard being a father."

    "You''re enjoying it way too much."

    "If you''re in misery, how can I not be entertained by it? Don''t give me that look. You already know I''m that kind of a nutter."

    Hyson''s lips curled up when he heard this amusing discussion. Well, it wasn''t really amusing but he found it amusing. And he suddenly wondered if Raelle hadn''t lost the baby what would have happened? Would she also be so tired after having the baby that he''d enjoy seeing her misery? This thought actually made him smile for a moment before his smile vanished and a mncholy settled in with reality''s p.

    The child was gone. He didn''t know how long he had to wait to see Raelle''s baby. More than that, he was curious about Raelle as a mother. He definitely thought it''d be a sight to see that straightface beauty holding a cute little baby and coaxing it to sleep.

    "Hyson, why are you smiling one moment and frowning the next moment?" asked Li Xinxin.

    Hyson looked at her, "Even if I tell you, you won''t understand it right now."

    "Oh," she pouted and added, "Then let me continue my ritual."

    Hyson''s lips twitched, "Which cult did you join?"

    "The cult to worship the beauty! Fuck that bastard! Who cares about his opinions? His family wants him to marry then whatever! He can go ahead and fuck himself!"

    Hyson actually put his fingers in his ears to stop himself from listening to the long curses that came out of Li Xinxin''s mouth. He would have never thought he''d get to hear this. She looked so cultured but when it came to cursing, she was really like a shrew now. This refreshed his viewpoint.

    Hyson could feel that the other people in the bar were not looking at them, he tipped down his hat and tried to distance himself from his manager who was still cursing her boyfriend. Although she said a lot of nonsense, he still got the gist. Since he was an expert at spouting nonsense, he also understood nonsense better than others.

    So, the gist was that her boyfriend''s family was sending him on blind dates because they wanted him to marry while Li Xinxin wasn''t ready to settle down and build a family at this time of her career. Because of this she had a huge fight with her boyfriend and now wanted to drink to forget everything.

 Chapter 851 Girls Are Trouble

    Chapter 851 Girls Are TroubleˇˇˇˇAfter she was done cursing, she teared up. As she sniffled, Hyson asked, "Sister Xin, are you okay?"

    Even in her drunk state, she actually didn''t want to cry in front of him and nodded saying, "I''m going to thedies'' room. I''ll be right back."

    "Okay," he replied and watched her staggering away. She couldn''t even walk in a straight line. He sighed to himself and picked up the script she offered him to pass the time.

    "Your manager is hurt."

    Hyson looked up and met those emerald green eyes again that made him hold his breath for some bizarre reason. The person before him didn''t have a smirk but looked serious, extending those long fingers, that person tapped on the counter where Li Xinxin had ced her elbows earlier.

    Only then did, Hyson notices that stain of blood. His eyes widened and he looked toward the corner where Li Xinxin went.

    "I didn''t even notice," he said in a small voice.

    But clearly, the person on the other side of the counter heard his voice and replied, "It''s not your fault. It''s pretty obvious that she didn''t notice it herself. Her heart must be in more pain if she isn''t even able to notice the physical pain."

    Hyson subconsciously agreed with her words and nodded his head.

    "I haven''t known her for long but I thought she seemed like a strong person. I didn''t think she''d be this devastated after having a fight with her boyfriend."

    "We often give the key of our heart to another person and expect that person to care for our heart. But in the end, the heart is ours. What''s the guarantee that person will take care of our heart? We are the ones who need to protect our own hearts. Don''t give someone so much power over you."

    Hyson was focused on those calloused hands and their movements as the person before him mixed drinks while speaking. For some reason, Hyson patiently and attentively listened. Even when the person stopped talking, he was wondering why did he stop?

    "Where did your cousin go?" asked Hyson.

    Young Master Ru''s brow quirked up at Hyson before he replied, "He got a call from home. He went out to take the call."

    "Oh," responded Hyson. "Thanks for the lemonade! It''s very delicious. Maybe I''m tripping but it''s definitely one of the best lemonade I''ve ever had in my life."

    "Pleasure is all mine to serve it to star!"

    "How do you know I''m a star?"

    "Didn''t your manager just say it?"

    Hyson tapped his head, "I forgot." He touched his chin before extending his hand, "Let me properly introduce myself. I''m Yue Fai. But my stage name is Hyson."

    "Hyson... meaning, flourishing spring," Ru nodded. "Indeed. It suits you." Shaking Hyson''s hand Ru continued, "Ru. I''m Young Master Ru. It''s a pleasure to meet you, Hyson."

    Hyson didn''t let go of that hand as his almond eyes were still glued to the face of the person before him. It was only after a minute that he let go and looked down at his hand. Why was he so lost today?

    "Ru means one who is like a schr," said Hyson.

    "Why? I don''t look like I deserve this name?"

    Hyson shook his head, "I can''t be the judge of that since I don''t know you. That''s why I''m wondering why you think the name Hyson suits me?"

    "Spring is the new beginning of everything," came the reply. "Spring is colorful and beautiful. I think the person who gave you that definitely told you why this name was chosen for you."

    Hyson smiled to himself and that''s when Li Xinxin came back.

    "Sister Xin, you''re hurt?"

    Li Xinxin looked up in confusion. "No."

    Hyson took her hand and turned it to see that her elbow had a cut but the bleeding had stopped by now. Only dry blood was left there as a sign. Hyson gave her a look.

    "I didn''t notice," said Li Xinxin.

    "I''d be surprised if you did notice," said Ru and ced a medicine box. "Although the cut isn''t deep, you should still take care of it."

    Li Xinxin looked at Ru again with stars in her eyes making Ru feel like a headache wasing again. This would never get old as long as that handsome face belonged to Ru.

    "Xiao Gege, how about you help me?" asked Li Xinxin.

    "Sister Xin," Hyson called out.

    "Hyson, I''m hurt. Can''t you be a little nice and give in to me?"

    Hyson rolled his eyes. He should know by now that girls have millions of tricks up their sleeves when they are being unreasonable. He was actually surprised to find that Ru had the same expression as him. Both read girls are trouble.

    Even though that''s how they both felt, Ru still attentively held Li Xinxin''s arm and took care of the wound. The cut wasn''t deep but it was really long. It was cut by something sharp. Hyson noticed how practiced Ru looked and wondered what Ru''s profession was.

    "How did you get hurt?" asked Hyson.

    Li Xinxin''s eyes were stuck on Ru and she dazedly replied, "I don''t know. While leaving home, I stumbled and fell, must have cut it then."

    "Can you be careful? How can you fall when you''re sober?" asked Hyson in disbelief.

    "She was high on emotions," answered Ru for Li Xinxin. "When people are high on emotions, it''s worse. So, you can''t say she was really sober."

    "Xiao Gege, you''re so gentle."

    Ru''s smirked, "This Young Master''s gentleness is reserved for beautifuldies like you."

    Li Xinxin giggled like a starstruck girl when she heard that.

    "Ru, are you flirting again?"

    Ru looked over at her cousin and shrugged, "Maybe?"

    "Who are you trying to dupe this time? The cute brother or the pretty sister here?"

    "Maybe, both?" replied Ru. "Does the gender matter?"

    Zhu Jie nodded his head, "Indeed. How can gender matter to you when you''re clearly confused about your own until now."

    "Cousin, are you looking for trouble?" Ru asked in a dangerously low voice before saying goodbye to Hyson and Li Xinxin. This clearly seemed like someone was going to settle scores.

 Chapter 852 So Kind

    Chapter 852 So KindˇˇˇˇThe next morning, Mu Chenyan prepared the porridge for Grandfather Xiang and brought it to him. She found her brother already standing before Grandfather Xiang. Looking at his posture, she frowned but walked past him and ced the porridge on the table.

    "Ge, are you getting lectured? Tsk, tsk. How old are you?"

    Xiang Hulin stood straight without a change in his expression. He could see the gloating on his sister''s face but so what? He was long used to it. No matter how much Mu Chenyan loved her brother, she always enjoyed it whenever he got lectured by his parents. After all, most of the time only she was being lectured while he was praised as the sensible one.

    "Elder Xiang, what happened?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "Nothing," replied Grandfather Xiang. "He came to tell me that he has to leave to get some work done. I''m not lecturing him. Don''t feel so happy."

    "Oh," she didn''t feel embarrassed at being found. She then looked at her brother, "Ge, you''re leaving?"

    "Just for a few days," answered Xiang Hulin. "I''ll be back after dealing with some things."

    "Then you go and get it done," replied Mu Chenyan. "But don''t leave before breakfast."

    "Got it."

    When Xiang Hulin walked out of the room, Grandfather Xiang spoke up, "What happened?"

    "Huh?"

    "Why do you look a little lost?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    Mu Chenyan shook her head, "I''m not. I''m absolutely fine." She took a pause before saying, "I met Song Xin''ai yesterday." Grandfather Xiang didn''t speak as he picked up the spoon to eat the porridge. Seeing that he didn''t seem to mind, she continued, "She went to see Raelle as well. If you want, I can make sure she doesn''t..."

    "There is no need," said Grandfather Xiang. "Since Raelle didn''t say anything, you don''t have to take any actions."

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head, "I''m gonna go out as well. I have something to do."

    "Chenyan," Grandfather Xiang looked at her. "You really don''t have to inform me or take my permission before doing anything. Even if I say you''re reckless, I know you know your limits. You should make your own decisions."

    "How is that possible? You''re still my elder," said Mu Chenyan. "No matter what changes, I still have to let you know what I''m up to."

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head at her.

    "Elder Xiang, you say do you mind if I look for a life partner for my Ge?"

    Grandfather Xiang''s hand paused and he stared at her, "Who caught your eye?" Even before she could answer, his eyes widened, "Su Feifei?"

    "How do you know?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "Because you met her yesterday," replied Grandfather Xiang. Sighing, he added, "Anyway, you can do whatever you want. I didn''t even have anything to say when he married Song Xin''ai. Why do you think I''ll have opinions now? I only have opinions about you! Stop thinking about others and think about what you''re up to?"

    Mu Chenyan scratched her ear. She was tired of hearing this. Why couldn''t he just say anything else? Why did every discussion end up on her?

    "Oh, I haven''t seen Fai since yesterday," stated Mu Chenyan. "I''m gonna go and look for him." With that, she slipped away before she could get another earful. She patted her chest and breathed a sigh of relief when she went out. She wasn''t entirely using Hyson as an excuse, she indeed hadn''t seen him since yesterday.

    She stopped a maid and asked, "Where is Fai?"

    "Young Master hasn''te out of his room yet," replied the maid. "He came back at around midnight and looked really tired. So, he must be sleeping."

    "He came back at midnight?" asked Mu Chenyan strangely. She even felt weird about it after all Hyson wasn''t in the habit of staying outte.

    "Yes, he reeked of alcohol as well," added the maid.

    "Alcohol?" Mu Chenyan''s eyes widened. When did her cute little baby grow up enough to have drinking nights out? That was so not like him. "Okay, you can leave."

    In a daze, she went to the living room and sat down. Thinking of something, she pulled out the exhibition passes she received yesterday from Song Xin''ai with a thoughtful look.

    "Good morning, Yanyan!"

    Mu Chenyan snapped out of her daze when she heard that and before she could reply, someone, hugged her and rubbed his furry head against her arm. Mu Chenyan''s face brightened up as she ruffled his hair saying, "Slept enough, my little Fai?"

    "How long can I sleep?" he replied.

    "I heard you drankst night?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Little Fai, is everything alright? Is something bothering you? You can tell Yanyan and Yanyan will solve everything for you."

    Hyson''s lips curled up, "Was sewing a broken heart."

    "Who dares to break your heart?"

    Hyson chuckled at her reaction, "You know I''m kidding and you still fall for it?"

    "How can I take it?" she retorted. "Even the idea of someone hurting my godson is uneptable. I''m just that unreasonable!"

    "You say I''m adorable," he said and pinched her cheeks. "I think my godmother is even more adorable than me."

    Mu Chenyan wasn''t pleased to hear that and said, "Next time, don''t even joke with your godmother like this. I really feel like spilling blood."

    "Actually, I wasn''t really kidding but it''s not my heart that''s broken," stated Hyson. "It''s my manager. She was in a bad mood so I apanied her. I didn''t drink. I mean I only ordered lemonade. But I did sit for hours with my manager watching her drink so much."

    Mu Chenyan narrowed her eyes at him, "And when did you be so kind?"

    "I was always kind," he replied.

    "Fool someone who doesn''t know you," said Mu Chenyan. "You don''t have that much patience for people that you don''t consider yours. You haven''t gotten this manager for that long. I don''t think the feelings are that close. So, I wonder what made you sit with her for hours?"

 Chapter 853 Memory Gaps

    Chapter 853 Memory GapsˇˇˇˇHow could Mu Chenyan not know the insidious nature of her godson? She was familiar with it all.

    "You always say girls are a trouble," added Mu Chenyan. "You have the least patience for girls. Your patience is mostly limited to Raelle."

    Hyson''s eyes shed as he smiled, "Yanyan knows best. And you''re not wrong. I really don''t have that much patience. And I still stand by my words. Girls are trouble. Take my manager, for instance, she argued with her boyfriend because his family wanted to send him on blind dates. The poor guy refused his family but he was still considered to be the wrong party. Does it even make sense?"

    "It seems you really spent hours listening to her rtionship problems and even came to realize the problem," said Mu Chenyan.

    "It wasn''t that difficult," he said. "I don''t know why the people in a rtionship can''t understand it when I as the third party can see figure out everything?"

    "Don''t get worked up," she patted his head. "When you''re in a rtionship, you purposely start ignoring some things."

    "Ellie is right then. Feelings are the real problem," said Hyson.

    Mu Chenyan poked his forehead, "Don''t always listen to her. It''s because of her that you like to look at everything objectively."

    "Isn''t that a good thing?" he asked.

    "I''ve also been trying to figure out for years now whether it''s good to be so objective or not?"

    Hyson was quiet for a while before he questioned, "Who did you see yesterday?"

    "A friend," the answer didn''te from Mu Chenyan. Hyson looked up and saw Xiang Wai who answered his question with a cheeky smile. "Aunt even treated us to milk tea yesterday after she introduced us to her friend."

    Hyson felt like he was being provoked. But did he look that easy to provoke? Why didn''t he know that? He simply looked at Mu Chenyan who exined, "They were having dinner with their mother in the same restaurant."

    That much was enough for Hyson to piece together everything and he looked at Xiang Wai, "You met your mother yesterday? She came? Where is she? You didn''t invite her home?"

    Xiang Wai was taken aback by his enthusiasm. She was dumbstruck. What was this? What was wrong with him?

    "No, she just had lunch with us, and then she had to leave," replied Xiang Wai.

    Hyson tsked at that. "What a bummer!"

    Xiang Wai couldn''t understand his reaction at all so she ended up asking, "Why do you look so interested in my mom?"

    "I''m not interested in your mom," he answered. "I''m interested in Ellie''s mother."

    "Isn''t it the same thing?" Xiang Wai rolled her eyes at him.

    "You''re right," he agreed. "At first, I was interested in knowing Ellie''s mother to know where she got that brain from but now I''m even more curious to know how the same person gave birth to someone like you?"

    Xiang Wai red at him, "You! What is wrong with me, huh?"

    "There is plenty wrong," said Hyson. "If I started listing it down it''ll take days."

    "Fai!"

    "Yes!"

    "Stop teasing Wai," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Okay," agreed Hyson. "Anyway, she is not fun to tease. I''d rather go and tease Ellie."

    "Are you sure it''s more fun to tease her? She won''t even react," stated Xiang Wai.

    "Maybe that''s the fun part, she doesn''t even react to anything," was Hyson''s response.

    "How about youe with me to an exhibition today?" suggested Mu Chenyan to Hyson.

    Hyson distanced himself from her, "Yanyan, I''m not into that stuff. Why don''t you take my mom?"

    "It''s because your mom doesn''t have time."

    Hyson clutched his chest, "So, the first person you thought of was really my mom and only thought of me when she wasn''t avable. How cruel! My poor heart is broken."

    "Dramatic!"

    Hyson red at Xiang Wai, "Don''t be so critical. Learn something from me."

    "What is there to learn?" she asked.

    "Maybe my acting skills," he retorted. "You never know when they mighte in handy."

    Xiang Wai gave him a displeased look and looked away but Hyson didn''t care about her reaction at all. He was still giving Mu Chenyan an aggrieved look.

    She rubbed his head saying, "Isn''t it because I know you don''t like this stuff that I asked Yue toe with me? But if you both don''t go, I can only go alone."

    "Don''t use excuses now," said Hyson. "No wonder people always mistake you and mum as a couple. Who wouldn''t mistake it? Even I''m starting to believe it now."

    Mu Chenyanughed out before she hooked her arm around his neck and pulled him close saying, "Then what do you say about having me as a father?"

    Hyson gave her a look, "I don''t mind. Anyway, you already yed that role before the public."

    Something hit his head and Hyson froze. He looked up at his mother who actually rolled up the magazine to hit his head. He was in disbelief for a moment before he held his head saying, "OW! That hurts! My brain is broken now!"

    "Your reaction is a bitte," reminded Xiang Wai.

    Hyson didn''t pay attention to her, he was still looking at his mother, "Mum, how can you hit your son like this? What if my head is broken and I be dumb? The brain is a sensitive matter, you should take it seriously. Didn''t you see how Tang Hebe got a concussion and developed memory gaps? Even if she recovered now, she still has some minor memory gaps. So, don''t hit my head what if I forgot you? No, worse! What if I forgot Ellie?"

    "Forgetting your best friend is worse than forgetting your mother?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Of course," he replied matter of factly. "If I forgot mum, she''ll still try to remind me that she is my mum. But if I forgot Ellie, she is gonna pat her bum and walk away. Forgetting all about me. Where will I get my best friend then?" Seeing how she looked confused he added, "I''ve always been the one holding on to Ellie, not the other way around! So, I can''t forget her!"

 Chapter 854 Caring Sister

    Chapter 854 Caring Sisterˇˇˇˇ''She isn''t that kind of a person.''

    Looking at the disapproval on his mother''s face, Hyson smiled. "So what if she isn''t that kind of a person? It''s the truth that it''s my stubbornness that allowed me to walk into her life. Maybe I''m a little selfish. She won''t walk away but if I forgot her, I might walk away. After all, I don''t want to go through the process of understanding Raelle Xiang all over again."

    Xiang Wai felt something was wrong with what he just said and asked in a small voice, "Why? Why don''t you want to know her again?"

    "Because it''s painful," he answered with a very serious look in his eyes. Xiang Wai was startled by the look in his eyes. She suddenly felt like his sunny disposition that she was familiar with was but just an illusion he had created. She felt ufortable with not just the look in his eyes but also his words.

    Hyson closed his eyes and when he opened them, he was back to being his normal self as heughed it off, "I meant Ellie can be a pain in the ass sometimes. Do I look like I want to go through everything she put me through all over again? Being her best friend is a tiring job."

    Who knew what others thought about his exnation but Mu Chenyan didn''t buy it. She rubbed his head lovingly as she said, "Why think about something that didn''t happen? Don''t talk nonsense anymore."

    Hyson gave her a toothy grin and agreed, "You''re right. It didn''t even happen. Why am I being so long-winded?" He rubbed his stomach saying, "I''m so hungry."

    "Let''s have breakfast," said Mu Chenyan while keeping her eyes on him. She understood what Hyson said more than anyone else. He was right. The process of understanding Raelle had been quite difficult for Hyson but understanding her was more painful to him.

    He understood her way too well. It was his blessing and a curse as well.

    When they gathered around for breakfast, Mu Chenyan sat beside Hyson and continued to put food before him. "Eat more and think less." She lowered her voice and added, "Rather than always sympathizing with Elle, focus more on yourself. Life hadn''t been that fair to you either."

    Hyson didn''t think she''d say it and shook his head, "Yanyan, life had been very fair to me. Life indeed left me with some longings but I was also given a lot in return. You always have to give something in return for something. And if I have exchanged everything in my life for the chance of having you as my godmother and Ellie as my best friend, I don''t mind doing it all over again."

    Mu Chenyan was stunned silent by his words. This kid...

    "My godson is indeed the best," she kissed the top of his head.

    "What are you both whispering?" asked Xiang Hulin. "Why leave Yue Yue out of it? That''s not fair to her."

    ''I''m always forgotten.''

    Hyson gave his mother a look at her dissatisfaction and joked, "Who asked you to bring a stepfather like Yanyan into my life?"

    Several people choked when they heard it including Yue Yue. She drank some water to ease her coughing before ring at her son.

    ''What nonsense are you spouting early in the morning?''

    Hyson shrugged his shoulder, "I always speak nonsense. That''s just who I am. Don''t you already know your son?"

    Before Yue Yue could say anything, they heard a chuckle and looked over, "Fai is still Fai."

    "Uncle Shing!" Hyson called out happily. "What are you doing here? No, I should ask where have you beentely?"

    Shui Koshing also took a seat with them looking tired, "Isn''t it because of my stupid son? I took early retirement and thought I''d be a salted fish from now on. But what happened? My son actually threw his father out to work at this age. Is there any justice in the world?"

    Hyson was silent for a moment before saying, "I just realized, I really am a bad influence on people. Everyone is getting dramatic with me."

    "Did you just notice?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "I''m being serious here," said Shui Koshing.

    Yue Yue stood up and served breakfast to Shui Koshing saying, ''Brother Shing, you eat something. Don''t pay attention to him.''

    Shui Koshing smiled at her, "Oh, it''s good to have a caring sister."

    "I believe it''s your caring sister who invited you over to breakfast this morning?"

    Shui Koshing looked up at Mu Chenyan and didn''t deny her words. It was indeed Yue Yue who asked him toe over.

    "It''s good mum called you over," said Hyson. "Uncle Shing shoulde over more. Didn''t Opa say a long time ago that you shoulde over for meals? Why stay alone in that big house?"

    "But if I stopped living in that big house, ghosts will take this chance to reside there," said Shui Koshing eerily.

    Hyson gulped, "Then you should stay there. It''s good to guard your own hours."

    Everyoneughed at his words and his expressions. He wasn''t scared of anything but looked like he was losing half of his life when ghosts were mentioned.

    Hyson pouted, "You all are actually fooling me now? Uncle Shing, do you think I won''t tell Ellie about this?"

    "Woah! Calm down, Fai! No need to get my daughter-inw involved. How can I fool you? Trust me, uncle is very serious right now."

    "Tsk. How can you be scared of your daughter-inw?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "Who said I''m scared of my daughter-inw? I''m more scared of you," responded Shui Koshing. "After all, it''s you who mmed me against the wall before Raelle and Xian''s wedding and said, ''You better be a good father to my Elle or I don''t mind sending you to reunite with your wife early.''"

    Hyson looked at Mu Chenyan who pursed her lips, "How can you take my words seriously? I was joking. Really joking."

 Chapter 855 Special Painting?

    Chapter 855 Special Painting?ˇˇˇˇ"I don''t think I''ve seen anyone who has taken you or your words as a joke survive," stated Shui Koshing.

    Mu Chenyan felt like mming Shui Koshing''s head. How dare he say that in front of everyone? So what if she threatened him? No, she didn''t threaten him at all! That was just polite talk between inws. Yes! That''s what it was. As long as she insisted it was, then it was! No one could say otherwise.

    "Ge!" she called out. "Someone is ndering your sister!"

    It was only then that Shui Koshing actually noticed that Xiang Hulin had been sitting there eating in silence all this while. He suddenly gulped. Oh oh! Who didn''t know it was a sin to say a bad word about Mu Chenyan in front of Xiang Hulin? This brother waspletely unreasonable when it came to his sister whom he doted on the most.

    All this while Xiang Hulin had restrained his aura to the point that others could easily forget his presence but once he was called out by his sister, his strong aura burst out.

    "Mr. Shui is my daughter''s father-inw," spoke Xiang Hulin. "So, I''ll let this go. But only this time. Next time, it''d be better if you refrain from making my sister angry. I only have one sister and I have never liked it when people wrong her."

    Shui Koshing''s lips twitched. There was someone who could wrong Mu Chenyan? But he didn''t say it. He had only heard of the unreasonable brother of Mu Chenyan, today he saw it. So what if it had been years since these siblings got together? Mu Chenyan was still the sister who dared toin and Xiang Hulin was still the brother who stood before her to fight everyone for her.

    Mu Chenyan was very happy with only this. It wasn''t like she really wanted her brother to do something to Shui Koshing. After all, as Xiang Hulin said, Shui Koshing was Raelle''s father-inw. But she was still very happy that her brother stood up for her like he always did in the past. This sweet feeling that she hadn''t tasted in years was too addictive.

    It was true that she could fight her own battles? But who didn''t like having someone stand up for them? She was also that person who sometimes liked to hide behind her brother and seek his protection.

    Shui Koshing cleared his throat, "Where is Uncle Yu?"

    "Opa isn''t feeling too well this morning," answered Hyson to him. "So, he had breakfast in his room and must be resting now."

    "Oh, then you send my regards to him," said Shui Koshing. "I might not be able to see him."

    "Aren''t youing for dinner?"

    "I have been eating at the office for the past couple of days," replied Shui Koshing. "By the time Ie back, Uncle would be asleep."

    After breakfast, Xiang Hulin walked up to Mu Chenyan and ced his hand on her head, "I''m leaving now. Don''t always jump around. I''ll be back soon."

    Mu Chenyan pouted but still nodded her head, "Then I''ll wait for you. Come back soon."

    Xiang Hulin had a gentle light in his eyes as he nodded his head before leaving. With him taking the lead, others also started leaving to their own works.

    "Major!" Hyson called out to Xiang Wai after breakfast. "I sent you the time and location of your blind date. Don''t bete. And don''t even think about any excuses. Anyway, your bad excuses won''t work on me." Xiang Wai bared her teeth at him while he smiled innocently, looking as harmless as ever. As if she''d fall for that harmless pretense of him again. Hmph!

    While instructing the kitchen staff regarding the lunch, Mu Chenyan once again turned to Yue Yue, "You really don''t want to go with me to the exhibition?"

    Yue Yue looked at her and said, ''Have fun!''

    "Heartless!" said Mu Chenyan and left. She arranged everything at home and rechecked everything before she started getting dressed around noon. After dressing up, she left.

    She drove the car to the location which was actually about two hours drive from the home. Her destination was named Sunset za because they said it was the most beautiful ce to watch the sunset in the whole city. And those weren''t just rumors.

    Because it was a popr ce, it wasn''t easy to hold an exhibition in the za. A person had to have some prestige to have their artworks disyed in the gallery of Sunset za. When Mu Chenyan arrived there, she could see that the artist definitely had some fame because even if it was thest day of the exhibition, plenty of people could be found there.

    Mu Chenyan didn''t look at the other paintings clearly, she went straight in search of that one painting that she saw in the pictures yesterday. And it didn''t take long to find it either. Once she found it, Mu Chenyan stood before the painting and looked at it clearly.

    She had to say that the pictures didn''t do justice to the painting before her. There was something about it that made her stand in front of the painting in a daze. Maybe it was the moment captured in that painting. But to be honest, until today she never thought there was anything special about that moment. And that''s what made her wonder if that moment wasn''t really special, what made this painting special?

    The moment captured in the painting was when she was sixteen. Standing under the eaves of the wooden house in the mountains, she was looking at the trees changing colors in the season of autumn. She had to say, the autumn looked extra beautiful in that ce just like that person had said.

    And it was because of that im that she was there to see the beautiful autumn there with him. Hearing someone calling her, she looked back, it was precisely this moment that was captured in that painting. Showing only her back and her half-turned face with the background of the beautiful colors of the beautiful autumn.

 Chapter 856 You Lost

    Chapter 856 You LostˇˇˇˇMu Chenyan stood in front of that painting named The Fiery Autumn. She didn''t actually have to look or inquire to know who was the painter. It was very obvious. Not just the artist''s signature is very familiar to her but also the painting style. It was so damn familiar that it left her in aplex mood.

    For a very long time, she continued to stare at the painting without moving her eyes. No one could tell what was on her mind. Once she reacted, she went to find the manager and said, "I want to buy that painting."

    The manager wasn''t surprised by her words. After all, since the beginning of the exhibition, a lot of people inquired about that painting. But as usual, he had to put on his polite smile and say, "Sorry, but that painting is not for sale."

    "Do I look like I care whether it''s for sale or not? I said I want it that means I want it," her unreasonable persona was showing up and she didn''t even try to conceal it. She still didn''t like it when people refused to give her what she wanted.

    "Madam, I''m extremely sorry but the artist specifically instructed that the painting is not for sale," said the manager trying to hold his ground under Mu Chenyan''s gaze which was making an uneasy feeling creep into his heart.

    Mu Chenyan smiled at him but that smile exuded more pressure than earlier making it difficult for the manager to not sweat even though he was standing in the gallery where ACs were on. "I don''t feel like reasoning with you. Call your artist, Xia Zhao, and tell him, that Mu Chenyan wants to buy that painting. If he has any opinion, he cane to talk to me."

    Originally, the manager was ready to refuse but once Mu Chenyan said the name of the artist, he was stunned. He knew who he was working for but people didn''t really know who was the painter since he was using an alias all these years. But since the woman before him could actually tell who was the artist, he didn''t take it lightly.

    "Wait here, Madam! Let me convey your message to Sir," said the manager and slipped away. He''d be a fool to stay around Mu Chenyan. He couldn''t even think properly with her around so he had to run to save his life.

    Mu Chenyan didn''t mind his reaction. But she still rubbed her nose feeling guilty. She really forgot to restrain herself a bit and almost started violence here. She had to remind herself repeatedly that she was now a civil andw-abiding citizen.

    On the other hand, the manager immediately dialed a number, and as soon as the call connected he said, "Sir, someone wants to buy The Fiery Autumn."

    "Not selling," came azy voice.

    "Yes, I know," said the manager. "However, thatdy seems to know who you are. She told me to call Xia Zhao and tell him that Mu Chenyan wants to buy that painting."

    He heard the sound of something falling from the other side, "What did you say? Who is it? Did you just say Mu Chenyan?"

    "Yes," answered the manager feeling strange. Why did he feel like Sir was actually a little agitated at the moment?

    "She is still there?" asked Xia Zhao.

    "Yes."

    A crafty smile spread on his thin lips as his eyes sparkled, "Okay. Tell her to wait. I''ll meet her myself." He hung up the phone andughed out loud. "Tsk. Yan Zi, you lost once again." He ran to get his car keys and rushed out of the house.

    "Brother, where are you going?"

    Xia Zhao didn''t even pay attention.

    "Brother, mom sent me to call you home for dinner. You can''t run away like this."

    "Go away, Hao!"

    "I can''t!" said the young man who was almost hanging on the car''s window. "What will I tell mom?"

    "Tell her, you couldn''t find me at all," replied Xia Zhao. "Now, go away already. I am really in a hurry. Just pretend like you didn''t see me today." With that, he pushed off the young man''s hands from the window of his car and drove away leaving his younger brother standing there in a daze.

    The young man was in disbelief as he muttered, "When did my brother start getting impatient?"

    Xia Zhao didn''t care about what his brother was thinking at all. He didn''t even bother calling the driver and took his car out, driving straight towards the Sunset za.

    Since he lived closer, it only took him thirty minutes to get there. It wasn''t just because he lived closer, it was also because he didn''t bother slowing down the speed.

    When he reached the destination, he found the manager who directed him to the ce where he asked Mu Chenyan to wait. Standing outside the room, he took a deep breath, he knocked on the door before pushing it to open. It seemed Mu Chenyan didn''t hear the sound since her attention was on the call.

    "Yes, I didn''t make the lunch today. Baby, I had to go out for something that''s why."

    Hearing such a gentle voiceing from Mu Chenyan, Xia Zhao felt like he was looking at a devil. Did he enter the wrong person? But the person in front of him looked like Mu Chenyan. Then did she get possessed? When did she learn to be so gentle with people? It almost scared him. No, not almost. It really scared him a little.

    "Yanyan, why are you exining this?" asked Raelle on the phone. "Don''t worry about my meals. You aren''t the only person at home to take care of it."

    "How are you feeling now?"

    "I''m fine," answered Raelle. "You get busy. Stop thinking about me all the time." She took a moment before saying, "Also, when you find that secret admirer, make sure to introduce him to me."

    Mu Chenyan was stunned and speechless while Raelle hung up the phone without any care about Mu Chenyan''s reaction.

 Chapter 857: Substitute

    Chapter 857: SubstituteMu Chenyan was always called omnipotent. Everyone admired her. Even if she caused a million troubles, people praised her greatly. But the problem was that most people didn''t know about her arch-nemesis who could always leave her in the dust.

    Looking at her, she always had one thought; no matter how good you are, there will always be someone better than you. In her case, that someone better had always been Xia Zhao.

    The most infuriating part was that his attitude towards life was even more leisurely than her. She was just reckless and careless. He was superzy and yet he always surpassed her.

    She really wanted to hate him all her life but it was just not possible. So what if he was better than her? It was her own problem that she wasn''tpetent enough. How could she hate him for that?

    "You seem very proud that just one painting pulled me here," she said bitterly.

    "Shouldn''t I be?" he asked in return.

    Mu Chenyan took a deep breath but didn''t respond as the waitress brought their order and left after cing the iced Americanos before them. Mu Chenyan took a sip to cool her head before saying, "I want to buy that painting."

    "Not for sale," he replied.

    "Name a price. I want it," she said.

    Xia Zhao also drank his coffee before saying, "Why are you still standing where we parted?"

    "Huh?"

    "Mu Chenyan, the heiress of the Mu n, still thinks that anything can be solved by throwing a punch or money at others'' faces? You still didn''t change your view about that? Things don''t work that way, Yan Zi!"

    Mu Chenyan''s expressions froze when she heard him say that. Only this person won''t stop reminding her of this. How she wished she could refute his words but she couldn''t!

    "So what? 99% of my problems are always solved with this method," she told him firmly.

    Xia Zhao shook his head at her and said, "Well, then I''m still that 1% you can''t solve with your method. You can''t beat me and you can''t buy me either. So, Yan Zi, I''m curious. How are you gonna solve this problem?"

    "You are also still the same," she snapped. "You still love to get on my nerve."

    "If I don''t do it, how else would I leave an impression on you?" he retorted.

    "Bastard!"

    Xia Zhao didn''t even react when he heard her cursing in low voice. It even made his lips curl up and he lowered his head as he focused on drinking his coffee. Oh, this tasted sweeter than ever. He hadn''t enjoyed his coffee this much in years. But then again, he hadn''t drank iced Americano in years as well.

    Others always thought he liked espresso but only this littleva girl knew he loved Ice Americano. And she said she didn''t care about his likes or dislikes. He purposely chose to ignore the fact that they both actually had the same taste and interests so it wasn''t that Mu Chenyan remembered what he liked, she was just following her own likes and dislikes.

    "I don''t care, I want that painting!" she said again.

    "You never like taking a loss, why do I think I''d like to take a loss?"

    Mu Chenyan really didn''t know how to deal with this person. She never could and it was the same now. How could anyone hold a conversation with him and win? No, just as Hyson had said, none of their family members had ever been good with words. So, it was okay for her to feel at a loss.

    "Aren''t I offering money here? How is that a loss?"

    "But I don''t want money," Xia Zhao repeated himself. "Taking money for that painting would be a loss to me. I can''t put a price on it. It''s a priceless treasure."

    Mu Chenyan was slightly stunned when she heard that. "It''s just a painting."

    "To you, yes, it''s a painting. To me, it''s not just a painting," said Xia Zhao. "It never was and it never will be."

    "I can never understand you," she muttered. "And I can''t win in this argument as usual. How I wish..." Her eyes suddenly sparkled. "How about I bring someone else for the negotiation?"

    "What?" he asked in surprise.

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head, "Yes, yes. I''ll bring my negotiation representative. You''ll never be able to win against her. Yes! Haha!"

    Xia Zhao gave her a weird look but she didn''t care. She just realized that her Elle had never lost in an argument. Why was she wasting her breath with Xia Zhao when she knew she won''t win? She''d rather bring someone who had the perfect chance of winning. And that someone was Raelle Xiang! How can anyone win against her dear Elle?

    She''d like to see how he doesn''t give that painting when Raelle is the one asking for it!

    Don''t ask why but Mu Chenyan had a blind trust in her Raelle. She only knew how to solve things with violence but Raelle always had alternative solutions. Especially, in an argument, no one could dare challenge her!

    She felt like patting herself as she thought she was a genius. Why didn''t she think of this earlier?

    "When did you start using a substitute?" he raised his brow at her.

    "Why can''t I?" she retorted.

    "If you leave the battlefield, you lose," he said straightforwardly. How could he let her escape so easily? That won''t be fun at all.

    "You just don''t have any intention of selling it! You''re being unreasonable!"

    "I made myself clear from the beginning that I''m not selling the painting. I really have no such intention." He took a pause and asked, "But the real question is, why are you so insistent on having that painting? In your opinion, there is nothing special about it."

    Mu Chenyan gave him a disbelieving look, "How do you know that?" She immediately pped her mouth. That was a dumb question considering how easy it was for him to see through her mind.

 Chapter 858: Juicy Information

    Chapter 858: Juicy Information

    "Stop it!" she mmed her hand on the table. "Am I a book in your library? Why are you reading me?"

    Xia Zhao rolled his eyes at her reaction as henguidly sipped on his coffee. Her reaction was within his expectations. Whenever she felt vulnerable, she''d raise her voice and cause a ruckus. How typical of Mu Chenyan.

    "I think you should stop it, Yan Zi."

    Mu Chenyan took deep breaths before asking, "You said I don''t find the painting special. You''re right. I didn''t find anything special in it. So, that brings me to the question, why do you think it''s special?"

    "Take a guess!"

    Mu Chenyan''s lips moved but nothing came out. After all, she was busy cursing him in her head. If she could guess, why would she ask him?

    "I''d rather go and try my luck with the lottery ticket than wasting my time guessing what''s on your mind!"

    Xia Zhao rubbed his nose and didn''t say anything in response to that.

    Mu Chenyan stopped paying him any attention and drank all the coffee in one go. After that, she even lifted the ss and poured the ice cubes into her mouth. With an angry crunch, she crushed the ice and gulped it down. She wiped her mouth and put on a polite smile on her face as she faced him once again.

    "How are you, Zhao?" she asked.

    Xia Zhao almost spurted out the coffee in his mouth when he heard that question. He pointed at himself, "You''re asking me?"

    "Is there anyone else here?" was her response keeping up her smile.

    "I suddenly feel a little scared of you," he said.

    "You should be feeling ttered though."

    "I don''t feel ttered at all," was his answer. "Buting back to your question, I''m very good."

    "How''s your wife?" she asked.

    His face twitched, "I don''t have a wife."

    "Oh, then do you have a husband?"

    His eyes narrowed as he said, "No."

    "Why? Did your partner run away because they couldn''t bear with you?" she asked cheekily.

    He showed his hands to her, "Do you see a ring? I''m not married. And I never got married."

    "Tsk, tsk. So, no one even wanted you?" she said looking sad but with a gloating look in her eyes.

    "If no one wants me, no one wants you either," he reminded her.

    "It''s me who doesn''t want others," she said haughtily.

    "Whatever floats your boat."

    "On a serious note, you really didn''t get married?" she asked, forgetti

    ng about keeping up her smile from earlier. She was genuinely curious now. She hadn''t purposely avoided learning about this man, it was just that getting his information wasn''t easy. He was a very low-key person. Even more low-key than Raelle. And he always kept his personal life extremely private.

    So, until now, she really didn''t know what he had been up to in all these years. That''s why when she looked at that painting, she was surprised to know that he had actually made a name for himself.

    "I never got married," he repeated himself again.

    "What you just want to date and don''t want responsibilities?" she asked.

    "Am I that kind of a person in your eyes?" he asked genuinely curious to know what opinion she had about him.

    "Well, you weren''t like that but it''s been years. Who knows you might have changed? I''ve seen plenty of people changing. Nothing is truly absolute in this world," she stated seriously.

    "I have told you thousands of times that you have to stop looking at me with the same filter you look at everyone else with, why don''t you still listen? I''m still me. I might have changed but my ideals are still the same."

    "There is no need to be so serious about it," she said. "So, what have you been up to?"

    "Are you genuinely curious about my life in these years or you''re looking for some gossip right now?"

    Mu Chenyan cleared her throat at being caught, "Okay. Let me say it straight then. What about that first crush of yours? I thought you guys started dating in college?"

    "Somethings only look good when they are afar," he said.

    "That''s it? Won''t you say a few more words? Exin a little! Feed my curiosity a little."

    "I''m not interested in feeding your curiosity," he red at her.

    "Why so stingy? Can''t you even share some juicy information? How hard can it be to say a few more words? Can you stop being sozy already? Aren''t you tired of being sozy?" She didn''t know why he was being so secretive about it. Was it so difficult to share some news?

    "Who can get tired of beingzy?" he asked. "I''m definitely not tired. And yes, I''m too tired to say a few more words to you regarding this topic. If you have anything else to say, we can still sit down and talk. But if you''re just interested in gossip, then I''m sorry, I''m a very busy person. My time is very important."

    "Are you putting on airs now?" she asked in a bad mood. "Do you think only you''re the busy person around? Do I have nothing else to do?" Seeing as he was about to really leave, she held him back. "You can''t leave just yet. Okay, I''m sorry. I didn''te for gossip. I won''t

    talk about that again."

    "I don''t mind telling you anything," he said. "As long as you''re really interested in knowing. But the point is, you just want to annoy me by mentioning some things I don''t want to talk about."

    Mu Chenyan made a face at him before saying, "How about I treat you to a meal?"

    His eyes widened a little, "Excuse me? Do you have a fever? What''s with these mood swings?"

    Mu Chenyan sighed, "No matter what, you can still be considered my oldest friend." She looked into his eyes as she went on, "So, can''t I just want to catch up with you after so long? It''s me who wants to put the differences between us aside."

 Chapter 859: Two Extremes

    Chapter 859: Two Extremes

    Xia Zhao was suddenly quiet for a moment before he asked, "And what differences do we have between us? Why don''t I know anything about this?"

    "You don''t know?" she gaped at him feeling a little dizzy. What did he mean that he didn''t know they had any differences? "You and I have never been on good terms."

    Xia Zhao shook his head at her, "No, let me remind you. It''s not that we were never on good terms. It''s you who always came running to me with strange bets. Have I ever challenged you? It''s always you. So, whatever differences you''re talking about, they are all in your head. For me, you''re still the little girl who I used to go to see with my father every weekend."

    "I''m old now," she scoffed. "How can you even call me a little girl now?"

    "That''s not the point, Yan Zi," he sighed and rubbed his temples. He rarely felt this way but even after all the time between them, here he was feeling the same way when she was in front of him. The same feeling of helplessness that no one else could evoke in him.

    Mu Chenyan thought about his words carefully and realized that he was right. Azy person like him would nevere to him and make unreasonable bets. Only she had the energy for that. His energy was always drained.

    "Let''s go," she said. "I was serious about the meal."

    "You''re paying?" he asked.

    "Even if I''m not, it''s not like you can''t afford it," she shot back. "Besides, can''t you be a gentleman?"

    "I don''t wanna give you the wrong impression by being a gentleman," he replied.

    "What do you mean by that?" she asked.

    "I had a couple of dinners with a woman and paid the bill, she started assuming that I was interested in her."

    She made a face at his statement, "This is why I told you to stop being nice to women."

    Xia Zhao gave her a look, "Yan Zi? Have I ever had the energy to deal with other women apart from you? You have always been enough to suck out whatever energy I had. But seeing me acting so aloof and indifferent to other women, you told me to be a little nice. Now, you''re saying I shouldn''t be nice? I really want to ask where these mood swings areing from?"

    "Did I?" she scratched her cheek trying to remember it. She cleared her throat and added, "Who asked you to listen to me? It''s not like I could force you."

    Xia Zhao just picked up his phone from the table and stood up to leave, not before saying, "Thanks for the coffee! You pay for it as well since I''m not gonna be a gentleman now."

    Mu Chenyan barred her teeth at him back as if she was gonna bite off his flesh but stopped herself and went to pay the bill. After that, when she turned he was gone. "This psycho didn''t even wait! As if you can run from me!"

    She hurriedly rushed to catch up and finally found him. She hooked her arm around his neck from behind as she said, "Yo! Where are you running off to, Zhao? I''m not done yet."

    He pulled her off of his body and took a step away from her saying, "Respect yourself as a woman and have some respect for me as a man. Keep an appropriate distance."

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips, "Which era are you still living in?"

    "No matter which era it is, you shouldn''t forget to give the respect to genders they deserve," was his response.

    Mu Chenyan took a deep breath, "Your thinking is still very rigid and old-fashioned." She thought of something and added slyly, "You weren''t this old-fashioned when we..."

    Before she could continue, he put his hand on her mouth to stop her, "Shut up!"

    She pointed at his hand on her mouth and he put it down under her victorious gaze. "You shouldn''t touch me so casually either."

    If he hadn''t reacted like this, she almost forgot that he was actually kind of a conservative person. But thankfully, he wasn''t one of those people who always told her to act like a woman. Even if his ideas didn''t match with hers, he didn''t stop her fro

    m creating trouble. Of her early childhood memories, the most striking one was the fact that he would alwayse to visit her on the weekend with his father.

    Always! And this continued for years to the point that she actually took it for granted. However, it was perhaps because he was silent in her life that his presence in her life wasn''t that striking.

    Disregarding his words, she held his arm and pulled him along saying, "I''m definitely taking you out for that meal."

    "I''d rather go to see Uncle Tianyu," he said. "How about you take me to him?"

    "No," she replied tly. Was she crazy? Why would she take him to Elder Xiang? That old man truly adored this junior. Even though this junior had no ambitions in life he was still one of the favorites of Elder Xiang. Why would she pick the boulder and smash it on her own foot? Taking him with her only met that she''d have to hear Elder Xiang praising Xia Zhao for weeks.

    "Is there a restaurant around here?" she asked.

    He pointed in a direction and said, "You let go, I''ll follow you."

    "What if you ran away?" she eyed him carefully. "It''s not like you didn''t do it before."

    "At that time, you wanted to take me to a nightclub," he reminded. "Against my will to go to that debaucherous ce. So, I had to run."

    Mu Chenyan chuckled.

    "What? What are youughing at?"

    "Nothing. It''s funny how you still talk in the same way," she replied with a smile.

    They found a restaurant and asked for a private room. Seeing him sitting there with that faint smile on his lips, Mu Chenyan sighed to herself. Indeed, he really thought he was an immortal. Well, he didn''t think so, only she thought he did.

    "Zhao, I thought with time you''d lose the calmness," she stated as he sat before him while he continued to choose the dishes from the tablet in his hands to order. "Howe you''re still as calm as ever? There is still that tranquility around you that annoys me."

    "And I''m still unable to understand why my tranquility annoys you," he replied after he was done ordering the meal. He faced her and added, "But I can tell you why I''m so sober in life. It''s because you have a habit of being drunk."

    "What are you talking about? I don''t get drunk so easily."

    He shook his head at her, "No. You lose your temper faster than anything. It''s because you''re so hotheaded that I have kept my calm."

    "You''re just telling me indirectly that we are two extremes?"

    "No, I''m just telling you, you can keep being drunk. I''ll continue being sober."

    The server first brought the tea to the room and Xia Zhao asked him to leave. He picked up the teapot and started brewing tea patiently. Mu Chenyan followed the movements of his hands as she said, "I have always been considered smart. Why do I end up not understanding even your words? Is it me or you just don''t know how to talk?"

    "How have you been, Yan Zi?"

    "Aren''t you a little toote to ask this question?" she asked him,

    "I''m asking now," he replied. "You can still tell me."

    "How disinterested are you in my life?" she looked so angry as she asked. "Only now are you asking me how I am? Hmph! If no one knew they''d think we are enemies. No, even enemies won''t take this long to inquire about your wellbeing."

    "You said so much and wasted so much energy but didn''t answer the question I asked."

    Mu Chenyan almost vomited blood. This man!

    "Thank you very much for asking! I''ve been doing great! At least, better than you!"

    "That''s good," he replied. He could actually tell that she wasn''t just saying it. She actually had been doing great or else, he wouldn''t see that sparkle in her eyes when she spoke. "How is your niece?"

    "Which one?"

    "The one you raised." He smiled

    at her as he put a cup of Longjing tea in front of her and added, "I''m very curious to know what a child you raised looks like. Did she end up getting all of your bad habits or escaped them?"

    Once this topic was brought up, Mu Chenyan was like she had drunk chicken blood. She started talking animatedly, "Oh, you''re asking about my Elle? She is awesome! She is the best! She is my life. Don''t look at my face and think she is like me. I raised her or she raised me still up for discussion. But she definitely the lucky star of my life..."

    Xia Zhao actually forgot to drink the tea in his hand as his eyes were focused on her face, she looked so excited and happy as she talked about her niece.

 Chapter 860: Uncover The Mystery

    Chapter 860: Uncover The Mystery

    "Wife, try this soup," said Shui Xian as soon as he entered with a steaming bowl of soup. "I made it myself for you."

    Raelle put down the book she was reading and got down from the bed. She didn''t want to eat in bed any longer. She had been eating in bed for days. She went to wash her hands and came out to sit with him. She looked at the soup and asked, "Is this chicken soup?"

    "Yes, I added some herbs for your health," he added. "Don''t worry, I consulted the doctor. It might not taste as amazing as simple chicken soup and might even taste like medicine but bear with it. It''s all for your health."

    "Do you think I''m afraid of drinking it?" she asked as she took the bowl of soup from him.

    As she lifted the spoon, he said, "Blow on it first. It''s hot. Don''t burn yourself."

    Seeing how he was keeping an eye on her, Raelle blew on it before drinking the soup. The taste really didn''t matter much to her. Besides, this was made by her husband who actually woke up at four to make it. She couldn''t even understand why he had to do it but he said the chicken had to be stewed for hours. Of course, he didn''t exin further and she didn''t ask further as well.

    "Hubby!"

    "Yes?" he asked. "Does it taste bad? Do you need anything else?"

    Raelle gave him a look, "Didn''t Ma Jin drop off some documents? You go over there and deal with it."

    "But I..."

    Before he could continue, Raelle''s eyes made him stop. "Go."

    He pursed his lips and went to the side to see what documents Ma Jin brought. He was very dissatisfied with his assistant who actually pushed him to work while he was taking care of his wife. But under the eyes of his wife, he couldn''t do anything except resentfully pick up the work.

    Raelle had been under his watchful eyes for days and really thought he needed to pay attention to other things. She was just drinking soup, did he have to keep an eye on her? As if he was scared that this soup will also hurt her. She definitely was old enough to know what could be done and what couldn''t be done. He didn''t have to make such a scene.

    Raelle slowly drank the soup thinking about something. After she was done, she wiped her mouth and asked, "Hubby, can I have my phone?"

    Shui Xian looked up at her and raised his brow inquisitively.

    "I''m not gonna work. I asked Anna to do something, I just need to know about the progr

    ess," she replied honestly. Obviously, she didn''t mention the details of what she asked Anna to do. And neither did he ask. Since he didn''t ask, she definitely won''t mention it right now.

    Shui Xian thought about it before nodding his head. He took out her phone and gave it to her saying, "You can keep it with you. The doctor said it''s okay to have something to do."

    "So, I can have myptop as well?" she asked. More than her phone, she needed herptop to work.

    "Yes," he replied helplessly. "Just don''t overwork yourself. Take it slow."

    "Got it," she replied. "Besides, you''re here to keep an eye on me. How can I overwork with you around?"

    He agreed with those words and went back to do his own things. He had been avoiding it but couldn''t run from it at all. Not like thepany was gonna copse without him but these people still insisted on making him work. Where was the justice in this world? He couldn''t even apany his sick wife to the hospital in peace!

    After he was donementing, he seriously focused on the work that had piled up for him within a few days. Even if sent his father to help, it wasn''t enough. Shui Koshing took early retirement and left everything in Shui Xian''s hands. All the power was now in Shui Xian''s hands and definitely Shui Koshing couldn''t handle everything on his own without his son.

    Raelle called Anna to inquire about the progress, "Didn''t you find anything yet? Why is it taking so long?"

    There was silence on the other side before she got a response, "Missy, things are not simple as they appeared to be. I have some lead on your mother-inw''s case but Miss Tang Hebe''s son... We are not able to understand his situation and don''t have any clues for now as well. Don''t worry, I''ll let you know as soon as I have the details."

    Raelle silently pondered over it before asking, "Just what kind of a mystery is it that even you aren''t able to uncover it?"

    "No matter what kind of a mystery is it, I''ll uncover it," said Anna with certainty. "I just need some time."

    "Okay, you don''t take so much time," said Raelle. "I don''t want to waste so much time on this. If you can''t find anything about Justin, let it be. I''ll ask Yanyan to help if I have to."

    "That''s a good idea," agreed Anna. "With Mistress around, it''ll be easier to find some things."

    Raelle hummed, "I''ll look into it. Get back to work and keep me posted."

    ;

    "Will do," replied Anna before hanging up.

    Raelle continued to look at her phone screen in silence and even when the screen turned ck, her eyes were stuck on the phone''s screen. It seemed she had something on her mind again.

    Staying in the hospital was actually quite boring but thankfully, Shui Xian brought some books for Raelle to read. And with books around, Raelle could live even in a cave withoutining. Maybe that was an exaggeration. But it was true that with books around, Raelle didn''t insist on leaving the hospital as much as she did before. Now, she was also given her phone and herptop, if nothing else, she could oversee some of the work in this way.

 Chapter 861: The Blind Date

    Chapter 861: The Blind Date

    Xiang Wai didn''t think she''d one day sit in a cafe and wait for her blind date like a fool. But the reality is always bitter. Today was her downfall. She was actually sitting in a cafe waiting for her blind date like a fool against her own wishes. All because she was too emotionally excited and agreed to this blind date, now she had to suffer from the consequences.

    For the umpteenth time, she pped her mouth as she muttered, "Why talk so much? Couldn''t you have stayed silent?"

    The truth was, with Zhai Yanjun around, she was never herself. How could she control herself? How could she wait for a moment and think about it carefully before agreeing? Wasn''t it all because Zhai Yanjun was around that she agreed to this blind date?

    She really felt exasperated thinking about how much it affected her to see Zhai Yanjun even now. They broke up over a year ago but why was she still so affected by his presence? Was it really so difficult to untangle herself from this love?

    That love wasn''t even like a fairytale, then why was she so obsessed with it?

    Why was she so obsessed with Zhai Yanjun?

    Xiang Wai let out a breath before picking up the cup of coffee to drink it. She didn''t exactly dress up for the blind date. She definitely wasn''t dressed to impress. More like, she came out to hang out with a friend. Because from the beginning, she really didn''t take this blind date seriously.

    Suddenly, a man came to sit in front of her and when he looked at her face, he stiffened. Xiang Wai looked at his getup and frowned. He looked like a suspicious person wearing that cap and mask on his face.

    She could see that he wanted to actually get up and run but stopped before he opened his mouth to ask in an unnatural voice, "Fai sent you for the blind date?"

    Xiang Wai could tell he was purposely changing the timber of his voice when he spoke but she still nodded honestly.

    "Damn!" he cursed out when he saw her nodding.

    Before she could think about why he reacted this way, he took off his mask making her expression turn ugly. Who else would it be if not her ''old acquaintance?

    "Huang Shuyi! Why are you here?" she asked.

    "I want to know the same, sis! Same!" he replied. "Why does it have to be you? Why? There are billions of girls in this world. Why do I have to run into you? Wasn''t the curse of my school life enough? Why am I still getting

    paired with you?"

    "You? You think it''s a curse to be paired with me?"

    "No offense, you''re a friend. But as a girlfriend, you''re a big no! You and I''d have ended up together back in school if we were meant to be. Why wait for so long?"

    "Why do I think you''re purposely offending me?" she inquired. "You think I loved having you as my deskmate? Wasn''t I also suffering? Seeing yourzy ass only annoyed me!"

    Huang Shuyi scoffed, "As if you''re any less annoying." He held his head, "Why am I so unlucky? I thought my cute little brother is asking me to go on a blind date and he must have chosen a beauty. But what happened? I ended up with this freak again!"

    Xiang Wai picked up the vase on the table and almost smashed it on his head. But she held herself back as Hyson''s words rang in her mind when he said that Xiang family members loved to solve things with fists since none of them were good with words. She didn''t want to prove him right even if he was right! So, she very gently put the vase back on the table.

    What she didn''t know was that, on another table, hiding behind the menu, Hyson actually breathed a sigh of relief when he saw her putting down the vase. He was sweating for his brother Shuyi right now.

    He actually wasn''t sitting that far from them and could hear their voices and from that, he also figured out that they already knew each other which was a surprise. Not a good surprise though since they really seemed like they were ready to fight. He suddenly realized that he chose the wrong candidate, maybe he should have called Fang Yiwen instead of Huang Shuyi.

    Besides, it wasn''t like he was really looking for a blind date for Xiang Wai so whoever came wasn''t a big deal. Why did his brother Yiwen have work these days? s!

    Taking deep breaths, Xiang Wai calmed herself down and faced Huang Shuyi, "I''m a freak?"

    "Kind of," he replied. "I mean, I love you, my freaky deskmate. But not in that way." He sighed to himself, "How do you even know Fai? He is such a cute little brother of mine. How did he end up getting to know someone like you?"

    "Does it matter?" she asked.

    "It does," he replied. "I have to know or else, how will I understand why he wants to find a partner for you? How are you rted to him?"

    "He is family," replied Xiang Wai shocking Huang Shuyi, and even Hyson momentarily lost hisposure when he heard

    that.

    A smile spread on Hyson''s lips as he nodded, "Since you called me family, I will put more effort into this." Originally, he was solely doing it for his ''dumb'' brother named Zhai Yanjun but now that Xiang Wai called him family, he thought that doing this is even more of his responsibility. How can he let two dumb people escape each other?

    Since Zhai Yanjun and Xiang Wai are both dumb, they should stay together instead of harming any third party. Of course, he was very serious when he thought of this. No matter how much he argued with Xiang Wai, it was only because it was fun to do so. She was Raelle''s sister but so different from her. How could he not find his thrill in this?

 Chapter 862: Waiting

    Chapter 862: WaitingOf course, the main point was the thrill that he got out of annoying Xiang Wai. The rest didn''t matter actually.

    Hearing the voices of Xiang Wai and Huang Shuyi, he was actually getting a headache. Putting these two together was a mistake! Tsk! Hyson, ah Hyson, how could you make such a mistake? Sigh! But then again, humans are allowed to make mistakes.

    "He is family?" repeated Huang Shuyi with obvious disbelief written on his face. How could he believe it? Perhaps, he wasn''t even this shocked when he met Raelle and Shui Xian who also were Hyson''s family.

    But this time, he was truly shocked.

    "How is that possible?" he asked.

    "Why isn''t it possible?" she retorted.

    Huang Shuyi opened his mouth but in the end, he couldn''t say anything. Right, why wasn''t it possible? In all these years, he had seen that with Hyson, anything was possible even the things you''d think were not possible would be possible. He should stop using the word possible now.

    "He is so cute and you''re so not cute," stated Huang Shuyi. "I refuse to believe that you''re family."

    "Don''t test your luck," she gritted out.

    "With you? I''d never dare test my luck. It doesn''t work at all," hemented. "If it worked, wouldn''t I be having coffee with a beautiful woman? Why would be sitting here with you?" Taking a moment he grinned slyly, "By the way, I never thought I''d see you on a blind date, Major! But it seems even the charismatic Xiang Wai also ended up on the blind date market. Tsk. Tsk. Tsk. Poor you."

    "Blind date market?" she repeated.

    "Isn''t it like a market?" he asked seriously. "You go on a date with a stranger and state your strong points as if selling yourself. You''re advertising yourself to the other person. It''s such a weird culture."

    "If it''s weird, why are you here?"

    "I only came because Fai asked me to," he replied honestly. "He asked me if I''m single, and I said yes. Then he asked if I''d like him to introduce me to someone. I found it weird but agreed. If anyone else was asking, I wouldn''t agree. But it was Fai. I couldn''t say no."

    He really couldn''t say no. He was sleeping when Hyson came to him and asked whether he was single or not. Huang Shuyi was very surprised by his question since Hyson would never ask personal questions to any of the group mates. He''d listen if you want to share anything but he rarely tried to pry into your private lives. So, him asking whether he was single or not was a big shocker to Huang Shuyi and even more when he said he wanted to introduce someone to him.

    "Why is it so difficult to say no to him?" she asked.

    "It''s just difficult," he replied.

    Xiang Wai was really confused. Up until now, she hadn''t seen anyone saying no to Hyson. Even she fell for his tricks and agreed in the end even though she was insisting on refusing in the beginning. Now, it seemed there really wasn''t people who could say no to Hyson. He just had that kind of a charm.

    "After seeing you at the wedding, I thought I won''t see you for years again," said Huang Shuyi. "But here we are. Just a few weekster, we are here sitting together, drinking coffee. Oh no, it''s you who is drinking coffee while I''m just staring."

    "Then don''t stare, order yourself a coffee," she said. She looked around and whispered, "Aren''t you afraid of being caught with a woman on a blind date? What if your fans found out? Won''t you be in trouble? And when did stars like you have to go on blind dates?"

    "Dating is the most difficult thing to do in our life as a star," said Huang Shuyi. "We can never satisfy our partners because we have to keep things a secret. We can''t go out on dates openly or post our lovely confessions online. It''s a whole lot of trouble to date a star so most people really avoid it. Even finding a partner on a blind date might be a miracle."

    "Don''t exaggerate so much," she snickered. "You think only you have it easy? I''m a soldier. Most of the year, I''m out on missions and can''t even contact people because of the confidentiality of my missions. Being in a rtionship with someone like me is almost like not being in a rtionship at all. It''s all long-distance rtionships and statistics say, long-distance rtionships don''t survive."

    "Then how did yours survive for a decade?" he asked seriously. Xiang Wai stared at him as he continued, "You said long-distance rtionships don''t survive. And those statistics are for the people who can at least reach each other through phone and video calls etc. But you can''t even do that being a Special Armed Force officer. So, I''m curious, how did your ex-boyfriend bear with this type of rtionship where he didn''t even know whether you''lle alive or not?"

    Xiang Wai fell into thought. She always thought she had a lot toin about Zhai Yanjun. But only now did she be reminded that whenever she came back from a mission, he''d always be there waiting for her. And he always opened his arms for her and hugged her in relief. She just realized, the relief was to see her alive and well. Howe she didn''t notice this detail before?

    "You''re right," she said in a small voice. "I also wonder how did he manage to wait so long."

    Because he was the one who always waited. Even if she said, she was the one waiting for him. The truth was, he waited for her whenever she was gone. He usually didn''t have to go on missions where you''d lose contact with him entirely. At least, she was always able to call him. But it was very different in her case. He couldn''t know anything about where she was going, what she''d doing, or when she''ll back or whether she''d being back at all or not?

 Chapter 863: Get To Know

    Chapter 863: Get To KnowHyson put his head on the table as he eavesdropped without any psychological burden at all. He didn''t know who to feel sorry for there. In the end, he thought the dumb duo didn''t deserve it so he started feeling sorry for his brother Shuyi whom he pulled into this mess.

    He looked down at his phone as he muttered to himself, "Why aren''t you here already? Slowpoke! If he kept this up, he''ll really miss this train!"

    "Shuyi," Xiang Wai called out.

    "Hm?"

    "Do you think I''m not really girlfriend material?"

    He gave her a strange look, "No." Her face well and he continued, "You''re definitely wife material. You shouldn''t doubt yourself because of my words." He took a brief pause before telling, "You know very well that at some point, even I had a crush on you. And I certainly wasn''t alone. Just because a rtionship didn''t work, you shouldn''t stop believing in yourself."

    "It wasn''t just a rtionship," she said. "It was everything to me."

    "And maybe that''s why you couldn''t keep it," he replied. "Life has many things to offer but since you obsessively ran after a rtionship, it kept drifting away from you."

    "I don''t know. I used to think it was his fault. It was his fault that he couldn''t see my love for him and he couldn''t love me. I thought it was because of this that we broke up. But now... I''m not so sure anymore. Was it his fault? Was it really all his fault? If I''m the one who obsessively held on to that rtionship then I''m also the one who gave up on that rtionship first. I thought once I let go, I''ll be freeing myself. But I don''t feel free. I feel lost."

    "You''re a very impulsive person, Wai," said Huang Shuyi. "I stayed with you for years and that''s why I can say it with certainty that you''re impulsive. When you asked him out, you''re impulsive because you wanted someone to belong only to you. You''re also not good with words or making yourself clear, and I''m sure that''s one of the reasons there was a distance between you and him. You wanted him to belong to you but you never made yourself clear. You have this tyrannical temperament and you think as long as you''re acting like the overlord, everything will be fine. You acted like the overlord and pulled him into a rtionship then you acted like an overlord and cut yourself off from the rtionship. Have you ever considered his point of view regarding both situations? Whether it was to date you or break up with you, was he ready for both?"

    "I hate it when you''re right," she said. "It was better when you focused on sleeping more and pretended like you couldn''t hear my chattering."

    "But I always did," he replied. "Who asked you to only have a friend like me? Only I was willing to listen to your chattering."

    "No, it wasn''t because you''re willing to listen that I came to you," she told him. "It was because you never tried to give me your opinions. You only acted like you were asleep while I talk beside you. And whenever I''d ask something, you''d just casually hum along."

    Huang Shuyi sighed, "I miss those days."

    "Being my deskmate?" she inquired.

    "No, when I could sleep without any care," he replied. "Life was really simple. The only annoying fly in my life was you. Now, I have to deal with so many flies every day. It''s tiring." He took a deep breath and asked seriously, "Wai, tell me, do you still love him?"

    "What do you think?" she asked in return.

    "I want you to give me an honest answer," he said. "You have to say it in words. If you don''t say it, what I think won''t really matter."

    Xiang Wai avoided his eyes but when she met his eyes, she said with determination, "I have never stopped loving him. Maybe it''ll sound funny or unbelievable to most people but for me, the definition of love had always been Zhai Yanjun. I don''t know anything else about love. And my heart is certainly not ready to learn about love all over again. Yes, I felt hurt. I felt like I was wasting my time. But whenever I was with him, I''d always forget everything else."

    "Now, it''d have been so much easier if you had said this to him," said Huang Shuyi. "He isn''t irvoyant. You might think sometimes gestures are enough to show your heart but people need words. Clear words. When you''re in a rtionship, vagueness shouldn''t exist."

    Xiang Wai suddenly chuckled, "You must be the world''s first person on a blind date who is actually trying to pair up his blind date with her ex."

    Huang Shuyi rolled his eyes at her, "I''m speaking as your friend. As someone who knows you and as someone who genuinely cares about you. Apart from me, no one else knows for how long you have loved Zhai Yanjun. Perhaps, even he doesn''t know. And I''m also someone who knows what he really means to you. It''s a shame but as your friend, I couldn''t help you at all when you''re struggling to find your presence in your family. But he made you realize that he''d be your family and you''d be okay with that. So, how can I not try to help you? Oh, and trust me, he loves you more than you think."

    Xiang Wai was shocked by his statement. "How are you so sure that he loves me?" She really thought he was talking nonsense now.

    "Want to know?" he asked as he raised his brow with a mysterious look making her feel uneasy for some reason. She really couldn''t tell what he was up to. He suddenly extended his hand and held hers gently. With a loving gaze, he said, "How about we get to know about his feelings deeply?"

 Chapter 864 An Outstanding Player

    Chapter 864 An Outstanding yer

    Xiang Wai felt goosebumps when she was attacked by that loving gaze of Huang Shuyi. Let''s face it, he was an idol. If he was part of a boy band, it means he had the looks aside from his talent. And in regr times, his looks would be overshadowed by his sleepiness. But when he wanted to, he could really y the card of his good looks well. For instance, right now.

    The charm that worked on millions of his fans, how could it not be visible right now? But the point was, it wasn''t working on Xiang Wai. Her heart had never skipped a beat for this man before her. Whether she was immune to his good looks or hisziness was too deeply rooted in his mind, it was hard to tell right now.

    But whichever it was, it didn''t matter right now at all.

    Huang Shuyi used his fingerpad to press down on Xiang Wai''s frown as he said, "Such a beautiful face, why frown so much?" Her eyes widened as he continued in that unusually charming voice, "You look very confused."

    "I am," she replied.

    He shrugged nonchntly as he continued, "Why do you have such short hair? I can''t even tuck your hair behind your ear."

    "Why do you wanna do it?" she asked in confusion.

    "For the better effect," he answered matter-of-factly.

    Xiang Wai didn''t understand his words at all but she didugh at his nonsense. "It seems you''re very much influenced by Yue Fai. He talks nonsense and you started as well."

    Hyson actually stood up from the moment Huang Shuyi held Xiang Wai''s hand so gently. But then his eyes wandered off to a person who appeared at the door and he sat back down in understanding. He even gave Huang Shuyi a thumbs up in his heart. Good yer! He definitely chose an outstanding yer for this round!

    At the door was Zhai Yanjun, why else would Huang Shuyi suddenly change his face?

    From the distance between them, of course, Zhai Yanjun won''t be able to hear what they were saying but he could definitely see the interaction between Huang Shuyi and Xiang Wai. Just the way Huang Shuyi looked at Xiang Wai was enough to make someone feel the crisis. How could Zhai Yanjun''s heart be at peace?

    It definitely was not peaceful and his turbulent heart was actually disyed in the way he held the backrest of the wooden chair. One could see his veins protruding. He looked like he was holding back frommitting murder or something.

    Hyson tsked at this brother of his and did not feel sorry for him at all. It was just round one and his brother already looked like he was losing. With this kind of mental ability, he actually dared to say that he was willing to let Xiang Wai go and find her happiness.

    "Wai, I''m gonna ask you a serious question?"

    Xiang Wai looked at Huang Shuyi''s serious expression and raised her brow. "What is it?"

    "Do you want to really move on from Zhai Yanjun?" he asked. "The question is not whether you can move on or not, the question is whether you really want to or not?"

    Xiang Wai thought about it for a minute before shaking her head, "I really don''t want to."

    "Then even if I get beaten today, it''ll be worth it," he said with a smile and even brought up her hand to his lips and dropped a deep kiss.

    While Xiang Wai''s eyes went round, they heard a bang and looked over.

    There was still a smile in Huang Shuyi''s eyes while Xiang Wai actually stood up in surprise. The loud noise came from Zhai Yanjun''s direction. It wasn''t anything serious, he just wanted to go over to beat Huang Shuyi but ended up bumping into a waiter. The waiter held a tray of three cups of steaming hot coffee that poured onto Zhai Yanjun''s chest.

    "I''m sorry! Are you okay?" asked the waiter.

    Zhai Yanjun moved his eyes away from Xiang Wai as his head sobered up because of the hot coffee that scalded his skin. As some rationality came back to him, he realized that he had no right to walk up to Xiang Wai and beat her blind date. They broke up for so long. What right did he have to show his possessiveness?

    He waved off the waiter, "It''s alright. I wasn''t looking. It isn''t your fault. I''ll pay for the damage as well. I''m sorry." The waiter and the manager who came over after themotion were both surprised by Zhai Yanjun''s good nature. Although it was indeed Zhai Yanjun''s fault, the waiter wasn''t exactly guilt-free either. However, Zhai Yanjun not only epted his mistake but also wanted to pay for it.

    As if not understanding the situation at all, Huang Shuyi pointed out, "Mister, those were the cups of hot coffee. Are you sure you''re okay? Aren''t you scalded?"

    Xiang Wai stared at Zhai Yanjun who shook his head, "No. It''s okay." Then he added, "Sorry for disturbing you. I didn''t know you were here. It was..." He wanted to say that it was Hyson who called him but he held himself back. If even now he couldn''t understand the intentions of Hyson, he''d be a real idiot. Even if Hyson alreadybeled him as dumb, he had to retain some image. "Forget it. You continue."

    "Tsk. Still acting tough as always,"mented Huang Shuyi and Hyson at the same time.

    Xiang Wai turned to Huang Shuyi, "You wait. I''ll be right back."

    "Sure," said Huang Shuyi good-naturedly.

    She walked over to Zhai Yanjun who was discussing with the manager the mess he caused. She straightforwardly held his wrist and said to the people around him, "Excuse us for a moment!" With that, she dragged him away while Zhai Yanjun was still trying to understand the situation before him. She didn''t leave any room for him to resist, not as if he could ever resist before her.

 Chapter 865: Stellar Performance

    Chapter 865: Ster Performance

    "Brother Shuyi, I didn''t know you''re so good," said Hyson with a look of appreciation. Huang Shuyi fixed his mask as he looked at Hyson who was also dressed like him, with a cap, a mask, and even sunsses. He pulled Hyson over to sit with him and said, "EA brother likes you a lot. But why didn''t you warn brother about this?"

    "I did," answered Hyson innocently. "Didn''t I tell you, don''t take the blind date so seriously? It''s just a game. y your part." Huang Shuyi''s face twitched when he realized that Hyson did say something like that to him. He rubbed his brows and looked at Hyson, "How do you even know Xiang Wal?"0 "Didn''t she tell you already?" asked Hyson. He smiled at him, "We are family."

    Huang Shuyi narrowed his eyes at Hyson. "Brother, haven''t you already noticed? Xiang Wai, Raelle Xiang?" Huang Shuyi was stumped and facepalmed himself. "So, you see, if Raelle and Major are rted, and I call Raelle family, then I''ll have to ept Major into our family as well reluctantly." 0 Huang Shuyiughed at his words and shook his head. Only Hyson would say something like that and that''s why Huang Shuyi wasn''t even surprised. "But brother, I didn''t know you and Major were also considered acquaintances," said Hyson looking very curious. One look and you''d know that he was fishing for information right now in a roundabout way. "She and I can be considered very good friends or enemies," replied Huang Shuyi. "We were stuck with each other throughout our school life as deslunates. So, you can say we know each other quite well."

    "That''s why you know about Captain and Major''s toxic love," Hyson nodded to himself.

    "Is it okay for you to call it toxic love?" asked Huang Shuyi. "And if it''s toxic, why are you trying to bring them back together?"

    "Love is like a virus," replied Hyson seriously. "Once a person is infected, there cure."

    "Are you sure there is no cure?" Huang Shuyi asked with interest "People move on in life."

    "Yes, by either cutting off the infected part of their body or by taking the poison of love all over again," said Hyson. Huang Shuyi nodded to himself as he seemed to actually agree with Hyson''s statement. He lifted his hand and ruffled Hyson''s hair, "You kid! You say you''ve never been in love. Why try to write others'' love stories? Write one for yourself at this age." "My love story can''t be so simple," said Hyson. "Someone first has to make me want to fall in love. Until now, I haven''t met anyone who could make me fall in love."

    "You have to give someone a chance," Huang Shuyi pinched his nose. "By the way, what do you have to do with Zhai Yanjun?"

    "He..." Hyson thought about it for a long time before saying, "He is also family."

    Huang Shuyi chuckled, "How many people are you nning on adding to your family?" "Brother Shuyi, you don''t worry at all. You''re also family. I call you brother for a reason. And in fact, you''re even closer to me than that dumb military couple." "Dumb military couple?" repeated Huang Shuyi. Hyson nodded his head, "Captain Zhai Yanjun and Major Xiang Wai. In other words, dumb military couple." Huang Shuyiughed so much hearing that his tears came out. It wasn''t that funny to others but to him, it was really funny. And he had to agree with Hyson that those two were really dumb. Even he as a bystander had long known that they loved each other but the ones involved actually chose to break up because they thought the other didn''t love them and that too, after ten years of being in a rtionship with each other.

    It was kind of him to call them dumb!

    "Brother Shuyi, usually you look so disinterested in everything. But today, you really surprised me. You actually started the y right on cue and gave a ster performance. I have no words, I want to give you a round of apuse." Hyson was praising from his heart. He did not think Huang Shuyi would actually give such a performance even without a script. As for the matter of no script, it was only because Hyson wanted everything to be natural.

    It was definitely not because he forgot about itpletely. Definitely not! Huang Shuyi smiled to himself as he told him, "Although Wai and I like to act like we are more of like enemies than friends, we are still the closest friends. I have been there when she always looked lonely. No one in the Song family felt like family and she was always lost. I remember she avoided going home at that time. No, she hated going back home. And I have also been there when she filled that loneliness with all sorts of strange activities. Her rebellious nature was just a cover to hide her loneliness. But whenever even Zhai Yanjun''s name was mentioned, her loneliness would disappear. You can say he isn''t just her love, he is her faith in life. She isn''t as tough as she seems to me." "I never thought she looked tough," said Hyson. "She looked more like a kid who was hiding behind a hard shell. Keeping a distance from the world to avoid getting hurt and from anyone to figure out how weak she really was behind that hard shell."

    Huang Shuyi gave Hyson a look, "As always, you have a very good understanding of people. But you''re right." He sighed to himself, "Since I call her a friend, I should do my part. Since I have always known who was her happiness, how can I watch her missing out on her happiness?"

    Hyson nodded to himself but he still asked, "Brother, you look..." Hyson looked for the right words before continuing, "Do you like her?" Huang Shuyi did not think that Hyson would ask that question straightforwardly. Even he was taken aback and fell into deep thought.ˇă

 Chapter 866: Small Acts of Kindness

    Chapter 866: Small Acts of KindnessHyson didn''t actually wait for Huang Shuyi''s response as he said, "You said Zhai Yanjun is Xiang Wai''s faith. Do you know what she is to him? She''s thest straw a drowning man needs to survive. And he had been clinging to it for too long." Huang Shuyi gave him a surprised look as Hyson went on, "Brother Shuyi, the problem between them is actually the love they have for each other. They have been desperately clinging on to that love that they forgot the world around them. They both have recently started to learn to love themselves and the world around them. People like them can''t possibly love each other the right way when they don''t even feel any attachment to anything around them."

    Huang Shuyi was silent for a minute before he sighed deeply, "You''re a very dangerous person to keep around." He propped his elbow on the table as he ced his chin on his hand, "Fai, what do you think about me?"

    "You?" Hyson asked and Huang Shuyi nodded his head. "You only have one passion in life."

    "Sleeping?"

    Hyson shook his head, "Sleep is your way to preserve your energy to pursue your passion. You''re truly dedicated to your work. Your music. Whenever you''re on stage, you forget about everything. That''s your only interest in life." He paused for a minute before adding, "Also, you''re a very considerate person. You hardly put forth anyints from the time we had been trainees. You''re very true to people whom you call friends."

    Huang Shuyi''s eyes didn''t hide his smile as he gazed at Hyson.

    "Are you done?"

    Hyson hesitated before saying, "Well, I''ve known you for 8 years now. So, I can say I have a lot more to say but I won''t."

    "Why?"

    "If I did, you''d get ufortable," he answered honestly as he rubbed his nose. "People don''t like being exposed. I''ve seen plenty of people walking away just because they had to face the truths they had been hiding from even themselves." Of course, it wasn''t always him who yed the part of exposing the truths. Most of the time, it was Raelle. But the end result was the same. Most people really couldn''t deal with the way how this best friend duo made them feel vulnerable and exposed.

    "You''re right, we have known each other for so long," said Huang Shuyi. "But isn''t it weird that only recently we learned about your family? Let''s not discuss your family, that''s a private matter. However, do you think any of us have been able to figure you out? Whether it''s me, Zhen Ge, Pei, or Feng. Which one of us knows you?"

    Hyson shrugged with ackadaisical attitude as he replied, "It''s not like I''m wearing a mask before you all. I''ve always been true to what I am. Trust me, I don''t like acting. Even if it seems like that with my dramatic nature."

    Huang Shuyi chuckled softly, "Yes, you''ve always been very true to yourself. The problem is, the real you is even more difficult to figure out. You''re the youngest of us but we all had a moment over the years where it was you who lend us a shoulder. It''s weird. You give people a very dependable feeling. Pei even told me that after his dating scandal, you told him that no matter what happens, you''ll be his support. Don''t you think as the youngest, you should ask us for support?"

    "If I need it, I''ll ask for it. I always ask for it," said Hyson straightforwardly. "You know I can''t cook. So, I always run to Zhen Ge or Yiwen Ge to make myself something whenever I have cravings. I''m not good at dancing, Pei Ge always spends extra hours with me. You always keep reminding me to take care of my throat. Yiwen Ge helped me in gaming. Zhen Ge taught me how to y drums. There are plenty of things you all did for me. It might be small to you all, but it made a big difference to me because I never had any elder brother."

    Huang Shuyi was a bit dazed when he heard Hyson''s earnest voice.

    "Brother Shuyi, I''ll tell you honestly. I really thought you all will look down on me when I joined the group right before the debut. You all spent years to get that spot while I just slid in at thest moment. I thought you all might even bully me since you all were more talented than me. But the first time, I was introduced to you all, Zhen Ge gave me his ever-so-gentle and weing smile and introduced everyone to me. Even if all of you had opinions, none of you say them to me. Yiwen Ge took me out in the middle of the night before our debut to y games in the nearby shopping mall because he knew I was nervous. Pei Ge bought me a slice of his favorite cake after the showcase. You gave me your lucky Buddha bead. But even if I didn''t believe in it, I still appreciated the gesture."

    Huang Shuyi''s eyes actually reddened. Those were very small things. Very small. So small that Huang Shuyi believed that not only had forgotten about it but others did as well. But those small acts of kindness were something Hyson cherished very much.

    Huang Shuyi really could understand what Hyson felt when he was faced with their kindness. It was his first time being epted into a group. So what if he was a piano prodigy at one time? He was still rejected by most people around him. Because of his childhood, he was naturally resistant to making friends.

    But when these people offered him a hand, he was willing to hold it. As he had said, it wasn''t easy to make him call just anyone brother. He won''t even be perfunctory about that title since he took it very seriously.

    Huang Shuyi tsked and poked Hyson''s forehead, "Idiot. Then your elder brothers will have to lean on your a bit more in the future. You better not run away."

    "Never!" said Hyson. He patted his shoulders, "My shoulders can carry the weight. Trust me."

 Chapter 867: Why Now?

    Chapter 867: Why Now?

    Meanwhile, Xiang Wai had dragged Zhai Yanjun but now she looked conflicted

    about where to take him. The problem was solved by the manager who offered

    to let them use his resting room. Xiang Wai took him there while Zhai Yanjun

    stayed silent all the way. He didn''t evenment on why she was dragging

    him around.

    When she entered the room with him, she closed the door and even locked it

    making Zhai Yanjun''s brows quirk up. He suddenly felt uneasy about this

    arrangement. He didn''t think it was a good idea to stay in an enclosed space

    with Xiang Wai. All alone.

    She turned around to see him staring nkly at her and frowned, "What are

    you waiting for? Take off your shirt."

    Zhai Yanjun tilted his head and she realized what she said sounded a bit wrong.

    "What? Are you worried that I''d do something to you?"

    "No, I''m worried that you won''t do anything to me," he replied with a serious

    look.

    His words made her look dumbfounded for a moment. She cleared her throat

    and said, "Don''t talk nonsense. You''re scalded by that hot coffee. Look at the

    patch on your chest." She was still talking in dissatisfaction as she started

    unbuttoning his shirt. "Can''t you watch where you''re going? Can''t you avoid a

    waiter? With your skills, it''s a wonder how you survived in the army until now.

    How did you get promoted to Captain? I should really talk to yourmander."

    "Lalso didn''t think I''d survive for so long in the army," said Zhai Yanjun softly.

    Xiang Wai''s hands paused for a moment when she heard it. At least, she knew

    the real meaning behind those words so she looked up at him sharply, "Do you

    still want to die?"

    "I never wanted to die," he replied. "If I did, I wouldn''t be so desperately

    holding on to this life. And I''m d, I did. At least, I got to meet my aunt and

    Fai. I also learned something new about living from all of them. And | also

    learned how much I don''t deserve to have you."

    Xiang Wai avoided his eyes as she pulled open his shirt and looked at the

    redness on his chest. However, the other scars on his body were definitely

    worse than this scalded skin. How could it be a big deal?

    "It''s not even a big deal," said Zhai Yanjun as he tried to take a step back but she

    was still holding on to thepels of his shirt. "Wai, it doesn''t hurt. If this much

    hurt, I wouldn''t be able to survive on the border of those snowcapped

    mountains. You''re really worrying for nothing."

    "Who is worried about you?" she retorted subconsciously.

    "If you''re not worried, why aren''t you looking into my eyes?" he asked. "Can you

    not do it? I feel stifled when you don''t look at me." He took a moment and

    added, "The way your eyes only held that other man felt more ufortable

    than this skin injury."

    Xiang Wai looked into his eyes and was momentarily lost for words. She

    gathered her thoughts before saying, "You... You never talked like this before."

    "Right?" he nodded to himself. "I also wonder why I held back. I should have

    been more honest with you and myself regarding my feelings for you."

    "Why are you telling me this now?" her voice raised and it was visible how her

    emotions were affected by his words. Her mood was so easily fluctuating

    because of his presence. All because of him.

    "I don''t know," said Zhai Yanjun honestly. "Maybe I think it''s about time to tell

    you this. Or maybe I don''t want to keep hiding my true thoughts anymore. The

    other day, Fai said when everything looks dark, I should find a guiding light

    and focus on that light with all my heart. It made me realize, that in my life,

    you had long been ying the role of the light. The light pulled me out of the

    shadows that haunted me for far too long."

    Xiang Wai lowered her head and continued to look at her feet for some reason.

    She didn''t dare meet his eyes again. Earlier, when she did, she already realized

    that she was losing control under the spell of his gaze. It was a dangerous y.

    She couldn''t y this losing game. She couldn''t extract herself from the spell

    of his gaze. So, it was better to run from it.

    "Did youe here because you heard about my blind date?" she asked him in

    a low voice. "Did youe to beat my blind date or to snatch me away?"

    "Neither," he answered. "I honestly didn''t know you''re meeting your blind date

    here."

    ˇ°And if you knew, would youe?" she asked.

    Zhai Yanjun sighed, "I think I''d stille."

    "That''s so not something you''d do," she said.

    "I know, right? That''s not something I''d normally do but I had been thinking

    about your blind date since I learned about it. It had constantly been on my

    mind. I won''t lie, when I saw you with that man, I wanted to go up to beat him.

    But karma got to me sooner than I could act and I burned myself as you can

    see."

    "Beating someone for no reason is also not like you," she mumbled.

    "They say you lose your rationality in love," he told her. "If you''re still rational

    while being in love, then either there is no love or you''re just fooling yourself.

    For years, I stubbornly wanted to hold on to my rationality but it made me lose

    my love. So, I don''t see anything wrong with acting not like myself."

    "You''ve be talkative," shemented. "That''s quite an impressive change

    in such a short time."

    "You''ve be calmer," he remarked. "And that''s also a remarkable change in

    such a short time."

    Xiang Wai took a deep breath and said, "Go to the bathroom and wipe your

    chest with cold water. Even if it doesn''t hurt, you should clean it up. I''ll find

    you a new shirt.."

    Neg

 Chapter 868: Proposal?

    Chapter 868: Proposal?

    Xiang Wai called the chauffeur who Mu Chenyan left with her and asked him to

    get a couple of things like a new shirt for him. She obviously couldn''t let him

    roam around in that dirty shirt or even shirtless for that matter.

    When Zhai Yanjun walked out of the bathroom, shirtless, she had already

    gotten the things. Surprisingly, the chauffeur was really fast. Or maybe anyone

    working for Mu Chenyan was naturally good at their job.

    "sit!" she told him and he obediently sat down on the edge of the bed in this

    small resting room. She strutted over to his side and leaned to observe the area

    of the burn. "Maybe we should see a doctor?" she suggested.

    "There is no need to," he answered as he took the shirt from her hand.

    "Don''t be so careless," she reproached. "It really isn''t a mild burn that you can

    lightly. It definitely looks serious." She touched his forehead to check his

    temperature. "Your temperature is rising. Fever is not a good sign. We really

    have to see a doctor."

    Zhai Yanjun held her wrist and tugged making her sit right beside him as he

    said, "Don''t fuss. It isn''t because of the burn. I already had a mild fever."

    Her eyes widened, "If you had a fever, what are you even doing here?"

    He was quiet for a moment. Then he silently put on the new shirt before

    sighing to himself. Xiang Wai was startled when he got on one knee before him

    and looked into her eyes squarely. Her breath hitched for some reason when

    she was confronted by the raw emotions in his eyes.

    "Captain Zhai," she started as she tried to control her breathing. "This is a very

    wrong time for a proposal. And if you ruined my fantasy of the proposal, I''ll kill

    you."

    Zhai Yanjun was taken aback by her words before he burst outughing. Only

    this fool would think that he was in the mood for a proposal.

    "I''m not proposing to you," he said helplessly. "I don''t even have a ring with

    me. Besides, even if I did, will you say yes?ˇ±

    Xiang Wai pursed her lips and contemted in silence before asking, "You

    think I won''t?"

    Zhai Yanjun continued to observe her expressions as he shook his head, "I

    think you shouldn''t. At this moment, I don''t deserve a yes from you. Not at all."

    "You really think you don''t deserve me?" she asked seriously. "When did you

    lose confidence in yourself?"

    "I never had confidence in myself," he told her. "But it''s true that I need to

    change and be a little better to deserve someone like you."

    "Whether you deserve me or not, it isn''t something for you to decide," she

    grumbled. "I have a say in that as well."

    Zhai Yanjun smiled at her reaction, "Wai..."

    "Hm?"

    "Can you give me another chance?" he asked sincerely. "I know I''m being very

    selfish but I can''t help it. You''re very important to me. I was ready to let you go

    when Xian knocked some sense into my head and made me realize that I was

    hurting you just as much as I was hurting myself. So, I couldn''t me you for

    anything. I had to take equal me for everything. And when I realized how 1

    hurt you, I truly wanted to distance myself from you and allow you to spread

    your wings and fly. But I wasn''t able to do it." He held her hand she had ced

    on herp as he went on, "I don''t know how to love in the right way but I''m

    willing to learn. I don''t know how to share my thoughts but I''m willing to give

    it a try. I don''t know how to cook but I''ve been learningtely. Although the

    only passable dish I can make is scrambled eggs with tomato, for now, I believe

    I''ll get somewhere with time. I don''t have much to offer but I''m willing to offer

    myself to you. All of myself."

    Xiang Wai''s nose was turning red as she listened to him. "If you put it like that,

    it seems like you know nothing."

    "Yes, I''m pretty useless. And this useless me was always conceited because he

    got someone like you to love him wholeheartedly."

    "Tsk. If you''re that useless, do you think I''d love you?" she retorted. "But when

    did you start learning to cook?"

    "It''s been a while," he replied.

    "And why are you learning how to cook?"

    "Because it''s always been you who waited for me with a table full of dishes, I

    want to do the same," he replied.

    "You won''t be able to though," she told him seriously. "I''m a Major. My job now

    mostly involved overlooking my team and presiding over the details of the

    mission. But you''re a Captain, you still have to go to fieldwork. Besides, when

    my missions end, I can always get some time off to myself. Your daily training

    endste at night. How are you gonna wait for me?"

    "I might be getting a promotion after the national day," he told her making her

    eyes sparkle.

    "Really? Really? Who told you? Did yourmander give you some inside

    information?"

    "Even I wasn''t that happy when I learned it. Why are you so happy? Shouldn''t

    you be thinking about how to reverse the damage your impulsiveness has

    done? You had a high chance of getting your rank..."

    "Shhh!" she interrupted him rudely. "Stop talking about that! So what if I''m not

    getting any credit for my work? I got to meet my sister and my grandfather and

    my aunt. Don''t you think that''s much better than getting my elevating my

    rank?"

    "When did you be so optimistic?" he asked curiously.

    "I learned it from that brother of yours. I mean your cousin. Although he is a

    little bit annoying, he does speak facts." She looked like she wasn''t very pleased

    mentioning Hyson but he could tell what she was feeling..Wanna gift the story? Try one.

 Chapter 869: Foul Play

    Chapter 869: Foul y"Did you share this with anyone else?" she asked.

    He shook his head, "Haven''t you always been the first one?"

    Xiang Wai blinked at him and said, "You''re ying a foul y now."

    "What?"

    "If you look at me with such gentleness, how am I suppose to keep my resolve? Aren''t I at the losing end here from the beginning? You never even had to sweet talk. Just your gentle voice and I was a goner. Isn''t it the same now? How can you y like this?"

    Zhai Yanjun chuckled and nodded, "Okay. I''ll stop looking then." He tried to release her hand and get up when she held his hand and didn''t let go. He raised his brow at her.

    Xiang Wai cleared her throat awkwardly, "I don''t mind though. You can continue."

    Zhai Yanjun looked at her reddened ears and chuckled to himself. It was quite amusing actually. She always kept a tough front but always became a shy mess around him. But that was the real her. She wasn''t as strong as she seemed. She wasn''t like her sister who didn''t have desires, wishes, or emotions. She was actually very normal in those aspects. Xiang Wai was just like any other girl. She really craved love.

    "Wai, shall we start all over again?" he suggested. "Let''s start from the beginning all over again. Let''s learn about each other from scratch."

    "Don''t we already know each other?" she asked.

    "If we did, we won''t have ended up here," he replied. "You said earlier that I''ve be talkative. But the truth is, I was always talkative. Somewhere along the way, I became silent. And the same goes for you. I never knew you had such a cheerful side to you. There are plenty of things we really didn''t know about each other. Even though we had a rtionship thatsted ten years but how many days in those ten years did we spend together? Considering the nature of our jobs, it''s already established that we can''t be like most normal couples. But I want to give it my all. Because I believe we can make it work this time."

    "You really think so?" she asked.

    "Why? Do you think we can''t make it work?"

    She shook her head, "I''m scared."

    "Scared?" he repeated.

    "It took a lot to walk away from you once. I don''t think I''d be able to do it twice," she told him honestly.

    "I won''t give you a chance to get there," he said with assurance. "Or do you n on going forward with that blind date of yours?"

    Xiang Wai found his expressions amusing as she teased, "Why are you so worked up about my blind date? Besides, you never even got mad when someone in the army hit on me. You always said you trust me. What''s up now? Just because we broke up, you think you can''t trust me anymore?"

    He shook his head, "That''s not it. It''s different this time."

    "What''s different?" she asked curiously.

    "It''s not you whom I''m really worried about. It''s that blind date of yours, Huang Shuyi!" He gritted out that name with anger.

    Xiang Wai raised her brows at him, "Huh? How do you know Huang Shuyi?"

    "He was your deskmate," said Zhai Yanjun. "Do you think I was so disinterested in your life that I won''t even know about the guy who followed you like a curse for years?"

    "You''re really jealous of him?" asked Xiang Wai in surprise.

    "He had a crush on you," he said. "Of course, he is the dangerous party here."

    "Shuyi? He had a crush on me?"

    Zhai Yanjun was actually pleased that she didn''t even know her deskmate had a huge crush on her once upon a time. But that was because all her attention was on him. So, she hardly noticed anyone else''s feelings for her. Only his feelings mattered to her and that was the case even to this day.

    But he actually felt a tad bit of sympathy for Huang Shuyi as well. Poor guy couldn''t even make his feelings known even after spending so many years with Xiang Wai. However, he suddenly felt like he couldn''tment on that since Xiang Wai couldn''t even figure out how much he loved her as well. Maybe, Xiang Wai was just dense.

    Of course, he won''t say that out loud, or else, he''d be getting a beating. Not that he was afraid of the beating from her.

    "Forget it," said Zhai Yanjun. "I''m not even surprised."

    "Wait! You felt the crisis only after seeing Huang Shuyi?" she asked. Faced with his silence, she understood and mentally noted to say thanks to thatzy deskmate of hers. At least, he did something good in his life.

    "So, are we starting again?" asked Zhai Yanjun nervously.

    Xiang Wai felt at a loss for a moment seeing how nervous he was. It was like the moment he was waiting for the results after high school wondering if he''d really get epted into the military academy or not. During those days, he always looked like he was standing on edge.

    She actually found it a little funny but held herself back fromughing at him.

    "Shall we?"

    Zhai Yanjun looked straight at her as she spoke.

    "Where should we begin from?" she asked. "Should we start from the introduction? Hi! I''m Xiang Wai."

    Zhai Yanjun held her outstretched hand and grinned, "Hello, I''m Zhai Yanjun."

    "Pleased to meet you," she said.

    "Likewise!" he replied.

    Both of them suddenly burst outughing. It couldn''t be helped. They both found it rather amusing. In a way, they had known each other the longest but it was such a strange thing that even after such a long time, they still realized there was something they didn''t know about the other person. Their rtionship was a strange one from the beginning.

    This time, they were hoping for it to be a little normal. Just a little normal was okay to them. Nothing extraordinary.

 Chapter 870: Mystery

    Chapter 870: Mystery

    In the absence of Xiang Wai and Zhai Yanjun, Hyson and Huang Shuyi were

    catching up which they hadn''t done in a while. Suddenly remembering

    something, Huang Shuyi took out something from his pocket and gave it to

    Hyson saying, "I asked for this peace talisman for your best friend. You bring it

    to her for me."

    Hyson looked at the talisman and then looked at Huang Shuyi, "Brother, she

    isn''t a believer."

    "Neither are you," said Huang Shuyi. "But you still have the Budha bead I gave

    you. And you always keep it close to you as well."

    "You said it''ll protect me," replied Hyson. "So, I wanted to see if that thing

    really was that powerful."

    "It''s not the things that are powerful, it''s the belief," said Huang Shuyi. "And

    you didn''t keep it to test a theory. You kept it because it was my goodwill. And

    you don''t like letting people down. Since that bead represented my sincerest

    feelings, you took it very seriously." He took a pause and added, "I don''t know

    Raelle that well but I''m willing to believe she isn''t much different than you. It''s

    not my talisman that she''ll ept. It''ll be my thoughts."

    Hyson took the talisman and nodded his head, "You''re right. She''ll definitely

    ept your thoughts and she''ll appreciate it as well. Thank you for this!"

    Huang Shuyi waved him off nonchntly, "You already know I visit the temple

    once a month. It was just during the routine visit that I asked for this."

    "I know. I know how pious you are. But I also know that your routine visits are

    always on thest Saturday of the month. But this time, you actually went in

    the middle of the month. Brother, I''m no fool. I know you specifically went

    there once you learned about Ellie''s ident."

    "She is after all your best friend," said Huang Shuyi. "You said she is family.

    This was all I could think about since Zhen Ge said we are not allowed to visit

    the hospital."

    Hyson smiled to himself but didn''t say anything. He put the talisman safely in

    his pocket. He wasn''t really a believer but he had seen how devoted Huang

    Shuyi had been in his life. During thest month of the week, he''d always eat

    only vegetarian. In fact, his diet was often very nd. It didn''t mean he was

    trying to be a monk, but it definitely held some meaning to Huang Shuyi. No, it

    definitely had a very important meaning to him.

    Apart from his group members, not many people knew about Huang Shuyi''s

    this interest. Definitely not his fans. He was pious and liked to keep a low

    profile. But he was equally dazzling on the stage as well.

    "Fai, do you think Zhen Ge is dating someone?"

    Hyson coughed when he heard that question and raised his brows at Huang

    Shuyi''s sudden question. "What? Where did thate from?"

    Huang Shuyi shrugged, "I''m just asking casually."

    "He isn''t," answered Hyson. "Just the other day he looked more heartbroken

    seeing how his dog betrayed him. He is definitely too busy with his dog to think

    of a rtionship."

    "Oh, he''s still raising Coco?" asked Huang Shuyi.

    "You know his dog?" asked Hyson in return.

    Huang Shuyi hummed, "I gave him Coco."

    "What? Why? How?"

    "That''s actually a very interesting story," said Huang Shuyi. "Coco was an

    abandoned puppy that Wai found. You see, that girl has some kind of a spiritual

    connection with animals. Animals just love to be close to her. Coco was very

    injured at that time. She sent Coco to the vet and got it treated as well. But she

    couldn''t adopt Coco as well. Back then Coco was very insecure and wasn''t

    willing to be left at those adoption centers. Wai sent Coco to me. But I also

    didn''t n on raising a dog so I mentioned it in passing to Zhen Ge who readily

    decided to adopt Coco on the spot."

    Hyson was gaping at this point and didn''t know what to say. "I didn''t know

    there was such a story. I think Coco remembers Major. The other day, Coco

    looked so unwilling to let her go."

    "Well, animals are sensitive to smell. Even though Coco was small, Coco was

    very insecure during that dark period. Who pulled it out of darkness, Coco will

    definitely have some impression of that person."

    "You''re right," agreed Hyson. He thought that whoever pulls you from your

    darkness would always leave an evesting impression on youˇŞjust like Xiang

    Wai left an impact on Zhai Yanjun and vice versa. Whether they realized it by

    now or not, it was true that they both had an undeniable connection from the

    moment they both became the ray of light in each other''s dark world.

    Apart from that, Hyson was also thinking about how people were often

    connected in an inexplicable way. Xiang Wai might have not recognized Coco

    after all these years but Coco definitely did.

    "They are here," said Huang Shuyi.

    Hyson instantly turned around and as soon as he saw Zhai Yanjun and Xiang

    Waiing back, he hid under the table saying, "Brother, cover me!"

    "Are we in a spy movie?" asked Huang Shuyi. "Besides, you brought them

    together. Now, show your face."

    "Brother, I do good deeds in anonymity," he replied. "You know, mystery? That

    mysterious feeling is kind of addicting."

    "Silly!"mented Huang Shuyi.

    "Call me whatever. Just cover me for now!"

    "You''re asking me to lie," reminded Huang Shuyi.

    "A lie told for a good cause isn''t a lie," said Hyson. "Besides, you lied earlier

    when you started that act with Major as well. Don''t act like you don''t lie."

    Huang Shuyi chuckled softly to himself. He couldn''t help teasing Hyson right

    now. He really didn''t think Hyson had a need to hide but since he wanted to, as

    a responsible elder brother, he''ll definitely cover him up. Not like it was

    difficult to do..

 Chapter 871: Goodwill

    Chapter 871: Goodwill"Shuyi, you''re still here," said Xiang Wai.

    Huang Shuyi fixed the brim of his cap as he sighed, "You asked me to wait."

    "Right, I did," she bit her tongue when she recalled that she indeed asked him to wait.

    "I think I shouldn''t have," said Huang Shuyi. "You certainly don''t need me here now."

    "How is that possible?" Xiang Waiughed awkwardly. "We can still go out to eat."

    "Is that what Captain Zhai agrees with?" asked Huang Shuyi as he raised his brow at Zhai Yanjun who was standing behind Xiang Wai silently.

    "It''s not my position to make a decision here," said Zhai Yanjun seriously.

    "Captain should keep note of his girlfriend''s activities, you never know when someone might steal you from you," said Huang Shuyi.

    "That someone can never be you, Shuyi," retorted Zhai Yanjun.

    Huang Shuyi held his chest and let out, "Ouch! That''s brutal!"

    "No, that''s me spilling facts," was Zhai Yanjun''s response.

    Huang Shuyi shook his head, "Forget it. I know you''re not that much of a fool. You already know I''m no longer your love rival." His eyes bent as he smiled at him. He was honestly making himself clear here. He didn''t want any misunderstanding so he made his standpoint very clear. Yes, he once did have a crush on Xiang Wai but that had been a long time ago. Even when he had a crush on Xiang Wai, he was clear about his position.

    "So, just to be clear here. Are you both back together?" asked Huang Shuyi after a pause.

    Xiang Wai and Zhai Yanjun shared a look before Xiang Wai replied, "Kind of."

    "Kind of?" repeated Huang Shuyi. "Don''t tell me you''re actually gonna have a trial period or something like that?"

    "No," replied Zhai Yanjun. "It''s just that currently, I''m courting her. We''ll take it one step at a time."

    Huang Shuyi nodded to himself, "So, you''re gonna make up for all the steps you skipped during the first time, eh? Seems like a good idea." He actually heaved a sigh of relief exaggeratedly and continued, "Congrattions to you both! Hope you stay together for a hundred years toe!" He looked at Zhai Yanjun as he added, "You see that? That''s me being magnanimous as a love rival. Ain''t gonna act like a sore loser. Learn something!"

    Hyson covered his mouth with his hand to suppress hisughter. He was wondering why his Brother Shuyi was being so nice when usually he was the sharp-tongued one. He''d never let go of a chance to poke where it hurts. And his Brother Shuyi didn''t disappoint him at all.

    Thankfully, Zhai Yanjun didn''t fly in rage. In fact, he didn''t even look displeased right now. After all, the euphoria of Xiang Wai''s one ''yes'' was enough tost for weeks. How could just this moment ruin anything for him? That wasn''t possible at all!

    Besides, it wasn''t like he didn''t know anything about Huang Shuyi''s personality.

    "Should I invite you both out on a meal?" asked Huang Shuyi as he checked the time. "No, it should be you both treating me instead."

    "Don''t try your luck," said Xiang Wai.

    "Stingy!"mented Huang Shuyi.

    Under the table, Hyson nodded his head and agreed with Huang Shuyi''s remark. He also thought that Xiang Wai was very stingy. It wasn''t like she had no money. Leaving her sry or rewards aside. Her inheritance from the Xiang family wasn''t small. Even if Grandfather Xiang was a little biased toward Raelle, he was a very fair person overall. He was just a little too attached to Raelle but apart from that, his other grandchildren were also very important to him.

    From the moment he separated his son, he had given away Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin''s shares. And that inheritance alone was enough to make these siblings like afortable life in luxury even if they did nothing for life.

    Zhai Yanjun held Xiang Wai''s hand and looked at Huang Shuyi, "How about I invite you to lunch?"

    "You?" asked Huang Shuyi thoughtfully. "Forget it. You both must have a lot to talk about. I''ll hold on to that lunch invite. Or you can just take our little Fai to lunch and I''ll be okay with that."

    Zhai Yanjun''s eyes paused on Huang Shuyi as he said, "Fai and you are different."

    "Not really," said Huang Shuyi. "He is a dear little brother. You take him out on a meal or me, it''s the same. I don''t mind. In fact, I''d be happier if you showed this goodwill to our little mascot. He is the happy pill of our group. You keep him happy, we''ll all be happy."

    Hyson couldn''t help rolling his eyes at thatment. But he also felt very sweet in his heart when he heard that. He didn''t think his mood could affect the people around him but he did know he had a million ways to keep the people around him happy. He was too good at it and he was proud of that skill by now. But then again, he had be proud in general for years now.

    It was good for an idol to be humble, he was told plenty of times but he didn''t care. He believed he was humble when he had to be and he was proud where he was allowed to be. It was senseless to through his weight around.

    "You don''t worry about Fai," said Zhai Yanjun. "He''s my brother. I''d do whatever I can for his happiness. Just a meal is nothing. Besides, he is family. So, no matter how many meals I take him out on, it won''t count. After all, as a brother, it''s a responsibility of mine."

    Huang Shuyi was actually happy to hear that. He picked up his sunsses and wore them. He patted their shoulders as he said, "I really hope you both startmunicating more. Don''t let your love be the victim of silence. Silence kills people. It''s a dangerouspany to keep."

 Chapter 872: Scream

    Chapter 872: ScreamHyson''s mission was aplished so he went back home in a good mood. Humming a tune, with his usual smile stered on his face. But when he entered, he suddenly screamed startling everyone. From the family members to the house help whoever heard the scream ran to his side.

    "Young Master, what happened?"

    "Young Master, did you get hurt?"

    "Young Master, where is it ufortable?"

    "Young Master, you should take a seat. I''ll bring some water for you."

    Hyson''s mouth spasmed when he was faced with his scene. He didn''t know whether tough or cry at this scene. But he couldn''t me these people for reacting this way. They were strictly ordered to take care of the one and only little Prince of the Xiang family. If anything happened to him and they were careless, surely they''d be losing this job.

    "Fai!" Even Xiang Weimin was rmed and came out from the study. "What''s going on?"

    Hyson scratched his head, "Ge, it''s nothing."

    "Then why did you scream?" asked Xiang Weimin keeping an eye on Hyson.

    Hyson bit his lip before saying, "Oh, Brother Shuyi gave me a peace talisman. I had to bring it to Ellie but I forgot and came back home straight. When I recalled it, I ended up screaming." Looking at the worried faces of the house help around him, he smiled sheepishly, "Sorry for rming you all! You can get back to whatever you''re doing."

    All of them breathes a sigh of relief and said, "As long as you''re fine, Young Master."

    Hyson pursed his lips and looked over at Xiang Weimin, "Ge, that scream was unintentional. Sorry for disturbing you."

    Xiang Weimin walked up to him and said, "You didn''t disturb me."

    "Then I have to rush now," said Hyson. "I should go to Ellie and deliver what is entrusted to me."

    "How about you give it to me?" suggested Xiang Weimin. Hyson raised his brow at him and he replied, "I have to go to the hospital for a checkup tomorrow. While I''m at it, I''ll bring it with me. It''ll save you a trip."

    Hyson stared at Xiang Weimin for a long while in silence. Xiang Weimin never thought he''d be bothered by silence this much. He had always been the silent one and it never bothered him. So, why was he getting so anxious right now facing Hyson''s silence?

    "Ge, just say you need a reason to see your sister," said Hyson straightforwardly. "I won''tugh at you." Saying that he even pulled out the peace talisman and ced it in Xiang Weimin''s hand, "You take it and give it to her yourself."

    Of course, Hyson knows that saving him a trip was all nonsense. Especially since this trip was to go over and see Raelle. How could Hyson be upset about that? But seeing how Xiang Weimin was actually using whatever he could do to get a chance to see Raelle, he didn''t mind providing this chance to him.

    Xiang Weimin held the talisman in his hand and looked at Hyson, "Does she believe in it?"

    "No," answered Hyson.

    Xiang Weimin nodded his head and strode inside the house. Hyson followed behind him leisurely. While Xiang Weimin took a left turn to enter the living room, Hyson took a right turn to enter the kitchen. Seeing him, the kitchen staff stopped working.

    "Continue! I just to have some juice."

    One of them hurriedly poured the freshly squeezed fruit juice before him and informed him, "This is fresh. You can have it."

    "Thank you!" Hyson happily took the ss. "By the way, where is my mother?"

    "Ms. Yue is in her work room," answered the staff.

    "Oh," was all Hyson said as he nodded his head.

    Holding the ss of juice, he walked out. No wonder his mother didn''t evene to check up on him. His scream didn''t reach her at all. And seeing how silent the house was, it was obvious that Mu Chenyan hadn''te back home yet.

    He came to the sitting room and sat down with Xiang Weimin as he pouted, "Ge, where is Opa? Is he still resting?"

    "Hm," Xiang Weimin replied with a hum. "I went to see him during lunch. He looked really tired for some reason."

    "He took Ellie''s ident very seriously," replied Hyson. "Although seeing you, Major, and your father did bring him the happiness of seeing his family together, it couldn''t suppress the impact of Raelle''s condition."

    "Grandfather is really attached to Raelle, it''s not surprising," stated Xiang Weimin seriously.

    "Yes, he is way too attached to her," agreed Hyson. "But if his health continued to deteriorate because of her..." He tsked to himself, "She won''t be okay with that."

    "He said he is old and it''s normal for old people to be sick," said Xiang Weimin.

    Hyson looked at him carefully but didn''t continue this topic any further. Of course, he knew that Grandfather Xiang was old but knowing was one thing, and epting it was a whole different matter.

    Xiang Weimin clicked his fingers in front of Hyson''s face snapping him out of his daydreaming. "Where are you lost?"

    "I''m not lost," answered Hyson. "I''m a grown-up now. It''s not that easy to get lost."

    "That means you used to get lost usually in the past?"

    "Sadly, yes," replied Hyson.

    "Where were you all day?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "I was setting up your sister with her partner," said Hyson.

    "Oh? So, did it work?"

    "Don''t look down on me, Ge!" said Hyson. "How can anything fail when I''m overlooking it?"

    Xiang Weiminughed and tousled Hyson''s hair saying, "Yes, yes. I shouldn''t underestimate you. Even Grandfather said I shouldn''t underestimate the little prince of our family."

    Hyson got a little shy when he heard that, "Ge, you don''t call me the little prince."

    "Why not?" retorted Xiang Weimin. "You''re the youngest in the family. Isn''t it your right to be called the little prince?"

    Hyson pursed his lips before his lips curled into a small arc.

 Chapter 873: Freedom

    Chapter 873: Freedom"If I''m the little prince, then you''re the crown prince," said Hyson very seriously. "After all, you''re the eldest. The responsibility of this family will be on your strong shoulders." He even touched Xiang Weimin''s shoulder as he said it. "Oh, these are really broad and strong shoulders. Definitely meant to do big things."

    Xiang Weimin gave him a look, "Oh? What big things am I meant to do?"

    "Ge," started Hyson and then looked around to see if anyone was around. Then he leaned over and said in a low voice, "You''re the only normal one in this family. Everyone else including me is abnormal here. So, the responsibility you have to take on is really bigger than you think. I''m not joking with you here."

    Xiang Weimin rubbed his chin, "Why do I feel offended for being called normal?" He was seriously thinking about this. Shouldn''t he be d for being the normal one? Why did he feel offended? What was wrong here?

    "Don''t feel offended. You should be proud here!" Hyson encouraged him.

    Xiang Weimin chuckled seeing his expressions and asked, "How am I normal and how is everyone else abnormal?"

    "Let''s start with me. Do I normal to you? No! I''m dramatic as fu..." he was gonna curse but coughed instead and changed his words to, "Fish! Yes, I''m as dramatic as fish!"

    "Fishes are dramatic?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "They are," said Hyson very seriously.

    Xiang Weimin was already quite clear about Hyson''s ability to talk nonsense with a serious face. But it always amused him nheless. In fact, he found him even cuter.

    "Moving on, our Yanyan is technically trouble in disguise. Don''t fall for the disguise. Ellie is well, Ellie. I have no words. Xian Ge can go from sanity to an emotional mess in a matter of seconds. Major is naive and easily provoked. You see, only you''re the level-headed one here."

    Xiang Weimin listened to Hyson attentively and patiently. Once he was done, only then did he question, "What about Aunt Yue?"

    Hyson paused and ran to the door to make sure his mother was not around before he came back and whispered, "My mum is lovelorn! Don''t fall for gentleness. Deep down she is lovelorn."

    "Are you sure you should be saying that about your mother?"

    "Tsk. I''m being very nice with my criticism here," said Hyson. "She should be d I''m being nice. I can make people cry."

    "I think this would be enough to make her cry as well," stated Xiang Weimin.

    Hyson nodded, "Right. She is a crybaby as well. Look how poor I am. As a son, I can''t even talk about her faults because she is my own mother. How unfair!"

    "You really dare to say whatever, Fai!" Xiang Weimin put down the data he was studying and faced Hyson as he was reminded of something, "By the way, I thought you were looking for a blind date for me. Howe you became the matchmaker of my sister first?"

    Hyson cleared his throat and sighed, "It''s a tragic story, Ge. Would you like to hear it?"

    "I''m all ears, little brother!" replied Xiang Weimin.

    "You see my circle is very small. I am often surrounded by women but I am not familiar with all that many women at the same time. After careful thinking, I did pick someone from my circle for you. I just learned the other night that she actually has a boyfriend."

    Xiang Weimin raised his brow at him inquisitively.

    "Ge, I really didn''t know she had a boyfriend. It seems she kept a very clear distance between her private and personal life. So, I wasn''t able to figure out that she was dating someone. Now that I crossed her out of potential partners, I am left with no one."

    Xiang Weiminughed. "With how you assured me that you''d find me a blind date, I thought you''d have a lot of candidates."

    "I''m not that good at socializing," said Hyson.

    Xiang Weimin gasped, "Why can''t I believe that?"

    Hyson shrugged, "It''s up to you." He held his head, "Oh my! I don''t have much time. I''m under so much pressure."

    "You don''t have time?"

    "I have to go back to the shooting," said Hyson with a sour face.

    "Don''t take it so seriously," said Xiang Weimin. "I was kidding with you."

    "But I was serious," replied Hyson. "Don''t worry. Even if I leave, I won''t stop looking. Besides, you''re not in a hurry anyway. I told you, you''re the eldest young master of the Xiang family. The matter of your partner is very serious."

    "Do whatever you want," Xiang Weimin really looked like an elder brother who was willing to dote on his younger brother. No matter whatever trouble his younger brother was brewing, he''d just let him be.

    "Ge, what is it like to fly an aircraft?" asked Hyson as he leaned backfortably on the sofa.

    "It''s exciting," answered Xiang Weimin. "Dangerous at times but that''s what makes it exhrating. Flying high up in the sky. Like having wings of your own. It feels like freedom."

    Hyson looked at the glow on Xiang Weimin''s face andmented, "Ge, you really love what you do."

    Xiang Weimin smiled helplessly, "Do you think I joined the army because I wanted to follow the family tradition? No way. I just wanted to be free. I always loved the aircraft. And I wanted to join aircraft warfare. I joined it for my passion."

    "You could have died in the snow that time," mentioned Hyson as he recalled the time when they met for the first time.

    "I wouldn''t regret it," replied Xiang Weimin. "When you''re doing what you love, you don''t have regrets."

    "Is that so?" asked Hyson in a low voice.

    Xiang Weimin looked at Hyson and asked, "What about you, little brother? Why did you be a singer?"

    "Maybe because I was born with a beautiful voice?" answered Hyson uncertainly.

    "That doesn''t seem right," said Xiang Weimin.

    "Hmm... I also think that doesn''t seem right."

 Chapter 874: Love & Hate

    Chapter 874: Love & Hate

    Xiang Weimin wasn''t willing to let off Hyson so easily this time around, he

    looked seriously at Hyson and said, "I answered your question seriously.

    Shouldn''t you reciprocate?"

    "But I''m also serious," said Hyson.

    "Bing an idol wasn''t your dream?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    Hyson shrugged nonchntly, "It''s a dream. So what if it''s not mine?" He

    suddenly covered his mouth and yawned before continuing, "I never had

    dreams, Ge."

    "[ heard you''re a piano prodigy in your childhood," mentioned Xiang Weimin.

    "What about that? That wasn''t a dream? You could be a famed pianist with

    your talent and hold concerts all over the world."

    "Piano..." Hyson''s eyes dimmed when he repeated that word.

    That change didn''t go unnoticed. Xiang Weimin could tell there was a story

    there so he asked, "What about piano?"

    Hyson looked at him but didn''t answer.

    "What? Not willing to speak or don''t want to share it with me?"

    Hyson pressed his lips together before shaking his head, "I usually don''t like

    talking about such things. It doesn''t suit my sunshine image." Xiang Weimin

    raised his brow at him while Hyson went on, "But I think I can tell you about it.

    After all, we share a deeper bond."

    "We do?"

    "Ge, we almost died together," reminded Hyson. "That ounts for something,

    no?"

    "Should I feel honored that you''re willing to share your secrets with me

    because we almost went to see the king of hell together?"

    "I think you should be honored," replied Hyson solemnly. "After all, not

    everyone gets to know about this."

    Xiang Weimin shook his head and patted Hyson''s head, "Stop distracting me.

    And tell me what''s up?"

    Hyson stopped smiling and looked away from him. He was looking at the fruit

    te but his eyes weren''t focused as he spoke, "I have a veryplicated

    rtionship with the piano. I love it and I hate it equally."

    "Why?"

    "When I was young, I loved it because wherever my mum yed the piano, it

    felt like the gloomy air around her would magically disappear. Only a warm

    halo would be left that made me feel warm. That made me want to get close to

    her. It was a wonderful feeling," stated Hyson. He looked up at Xiang Weimin

    again and added, "You see, people called me a prodigy but they didn''t know

    that my mum was even better than me. Her fingers truly belonged on those

    ck and white keys."

    Xiang Weimin listened attentively. He didn''t know much about Hyson''s

    childhood. He only learned the most basic things. And most of it was after the

    time he met Raelle. Before that, what kind of a life he lived or what kind of a

    person he was, no one talked about it. Not even Hyson. It was like he wanted to

    keep those years locked up somewhere and never recall it.

    Whenever he spoke about his memories it was like his memory only began

    from the moment he met Raelle. But what about before that?

    Knowing that Yue Yue left with nothing back then already made it clear to

    Xiang Weimin that Hyson or Yue Yue didn''t have an easy life in those years. But

    none of them liked to talk about that.

    ˇ°And why do you hate it?" asked Xiang Weimin in a soft voice.

    "Because of the same mother of mine," answered Hyson smiling bitterly. "You

    do know that we lived in a remote vige back then right?" Xiang Weimin

    nodded his head and seeing that Hyson continued, "There weren''t that many

    rich people in that vige. But only a couple of them. One of them had kids my

    age in their family and hired my mum as a piano teacher. It was exactly that

    time when I learned to y the piano since we couldn''t afford it. That family

    was very kind actually and they taught their kids very well. However, I hated it

    when those kids looked at my mother with those pitiful eyes. No matter how

    nice they were, they couldn''t hide the fact that they felt bad for their piano

    teacher who couldn''t speak but was astonishingly talented. Although the logic

    is twisted, I still hated piano instead of those kids. Because even until now, I''d

    say that they were one of the rare kind people I came across at that age."

    Xiang Weimin didn''t speak anything. He didn''t even know what he could say.

    He felt very ufortable just listening to it for some reason. He could hear

    the helplessness in Hyson''s voice and one won''t be able to find it that often. He

    was right. Talking about this really ruined his sunshine image.

    But from this, he understood that Hyson hated it when people pitied his

    mother''s disability. He hated it when people said his mother was different.

    Because even back then, Hyson didn''t think there was anything wrong with his

    mother. He proudly showed off that his mother was more talented than others.

    But so what if he never felt inferior? It wouldn''t stop Yue Yue from feeling

    inferior and hiding in a shell.

    "Ge, are you feeling bad for me as well?"

    Xiang Weimin shook his head, "No way. You have an amazing mother. Why

    would I pity you? Do you think I''m ina position to pity you when my mother

    didn''t even have time for me all her life? The rtionship between me and my

    mother is like that of two people who respect each other and admire each

    other. Yours is like that of a friend, a son, and sometimes you even act like her

    father."

    "I''m not that old," grumbled Hyson. "How can I y the role of her father?" He

    paused before adding, "But you know, I have another reason to love piano."

    "What is it?"

    "The piano became the bridge that allowed me to cross the distance of

    thousands of miles between me and Ellie. It allowed me to find my best friend.

    It allowed me to find a family. It also allowed me to find a home."

    Xiang Weimin smiled knowingly and patted his head lovingly, "It''s your will

    that brought you where you are. The rest are just means. What''s meant to be

    yours, will be yours eventually.."

 Chapter 875: Mummy

    Chapter 875: Mummy"Jie~"

    "Stop disturbing me, Kun!"

    Cui Xukun pouted, "Then pay some attention to me."

    "Kun, go and help your brother-inw in the kitchen," said Cui Xuqing as she looked up from theptop.

    "I have something to discuss with you," said Cui Xukun.

    "I''m busy," replied Cui Xuqing.

    "When are you not busy?" retorted Cui Xukun. "I''m a corporatewyer. Even I''m not as busy as you are. How can being a celebritywyer be so difficult? It''s not like you''re a divorcewyer or a criminalwyer."

    Cui Xuqing red at her brother, "Are you looking down on celebrities? Because I''m telling you, sometimes they create more trouble than the divorce couples." She stretched her arms and added, "My client wants to break his contract with his agency and join a newpany. But his oldpany isn''t that easy to deal with and wants him to shed some skin before leaving. I''ve to n for the worst here. I can''t let my client lose."

    Cui Xukun made a face at her to show his dissatisfaction.

    "If you continued to shoo me away with the same excuse, your brother is gonna die alone. It seems you don''t want to meet my girlfriend at all," he harrumphed and walked away angrily.

    Cui Xuqing was frowning but she heard what he said, she had a look of enlightenment. No wonder her brother had been running after her to give him some time. But she really had no free timetely. She looked at the documents scattered on the table and felt her headache getting worse. She had to deal with this all as soon as possible.

    No matter what, she was still Cui Xukun''s elder sister. It was her responsibility to take care of her brother''s matters like she had been doing all her life. And she was also eager to meet Cloe in person. The woman had her brother infatuated with her for years, she had to know her.

    Cui Xukun was still grumbling unhappily when he went to look for his brother-inw and ran into someone. "Sorry!"

    "Brother Kun!"

    Cui Xukun had to lower his head to see Sora''s face and he smiled at her, "Hi! Haven''t seen you for a long time. How are you, Sora?" Before she could answer, he added, "You''re still so small. Eat more."

    Sora''s cheeks puffed up, "Brother Kun! Why do you have to jab at me with my height?"

    "What are you talking about?" asked Cui Xukun in bafflement. "I didn''t mean your height. Eat more won''t help with that at this point. I''m talking about how skinny you have be. Are you starving? Who are you saving money for? Eat more."

    "How am I skinny? I still have to lose 3 pounds," she told him.

    "Then you''ll look like a mummy," said Cui Xukun making her gape at him. "Be careful. I don''t care but I don''t want you to scare my niece and nephew. They are precious to me."

    Sora stomped her foot like a kid and shouted at the top of her lungs, "Bro! Brother Kun is bullying me!"

    Cui Xukun took a step back from her and rubbed his ears, "Is this considered bullying? Which school did you go to? You should havee to mine and I''d have shown you what real bullying looked like. Besides, it''s you who just bullied me."

    "Me?"

    "Yeah! You ran into me and almost broke my chest with that iron-like head of yours and then you shouted so loud that it''s a blessing my ears didn''t start bleeding yet."

    Sora just stood there not knowing what to say. She was hopping mad but had noeback. What a stifling feeling! She felt like some bad blood was stuck in her chest that made her ufortable now!

    Seeing how she was turning red from her neck down, he found it very interesting and said, "Aren''t you a famous writer? Why aren''t you even creative withebacks? Tsk. So much for your hype."

    He walked past her without waiting for a response because he knew right about this time, that she was gonna cry if he stayed there. After all, he knew this much. His sister married Sora''s brother for years. There was no way he wouldn''t know what she was like.

    And he wasn''t wrong, when he left Sora did have tears brimming in her eyes. She was trying so hard to hold them back. What a disappointment she was! She always acted like an aloof writer out there and in the house, she was being bullied and couldn''t even stand up for herself. She pped her head that couldn''t think of anything at the right time.

    "Auntie, are you okay?" asked little Xena as she looked at her aunt who just stood there with her head lowered. She only heard voices and came running down from upstairs. She didn''t find anyone else apart from her aunt standing there like she was scolded by someone.

    Why did she think so? Because little Xena thought she also looked exactly the same when her mommy lectured her. Oh, it wasn''t a good feeling. So, she stepped over, and using her small hands, tugged at Sora''s trousers.

    Sora sniffled and looked down at her niece. She crouched down before her and said, "I''m fine."

    Of course, little Xena didn''t think so. So, she raised her hand to caress Sora''s hair saying, "There, there. Don''t feel so down. Everything will be okay. We are here with you."

    Sora didn''t know whether to cry orugh at this moment. What the... She was actually beingforted by her own niece who barely even reached her waist. Ah, she should really stop doing this or she''ll lose whatever prestige she had in front of her niece and nephew.

    "Okay, I''ll listen to Xena," said Sora. "Come with auntie. Let''s go and find your brother. I found the crayons. We can start drawing now."

    "Okay," Little Xena readily agreed and gave a toothy grin to her aunt, melting her heart into a puddle. She was really envious of her brother who had such adorable kids.

 Chapter 876: Trust

    Chapter 876: Trust

    In the end, Cui Xukun found his brother-inw in the kitchen. Soren wore an

    apron with his sleeves rolled up, he held a kitchen knife and deftly minced the

    piece of meat. He was very focused and didn''t seem to notice Cui Xukun.

    "Brother-inw, why are you doing this?" asked Cui Xukun. "Don''t you think

    you have spoiled my sister way too much? Did you perhaps get the wrong

    script? You''re supposed to be the domineering CEO. Who stuffed the script of

    househusband into your hands?"

    Soren only nced at Cui Xukun and didn''t even say anything. Pouring oil into

    the pan, he started stir-frying the vegetables.

    "Brother-inw, I''m talking to you," said Cui Xukun.

    "Stopining ande here," Soren beckoned him over. "Get me some

    corn cobs, I''m gonna make soup." He paused and changed his words, "No, you

    should make the soup."

    "Huh? Me? Why?"

    "I''m hoping that your mouth will shut up if you''re hands are busy," was Soren''s

    response. "And by the way, why can''t I spoil my wife? You always had her to

    spoil you, so what if it''s my turn to spoil her?"

    Soren really didn''t think there was anything wrong with his approach. He

    really believed his wife deserved it. Besides, it''s not like he cooked daily. He

    only did it asionally.

    Cui Xukun also rolled his sleeves and got to work even if he was grumbling. But

    he didn''t forget to say, "You think she spoiled me? She is so evil. How could she

    spoil me?"

    "Oh, no wonder you love her so much," said Soren.

    Cui Xukun was stumped. He cleared his throat and replied, "She is the only

    sister I got. That''s why I love her. No other reason."

    "You don''t sound convincing," replied Soren. "Not even a 4-year-old would

    believe you." He shook his head and asked, "So, what happened this time? Why

    are youining about your sister?"

    "She isn''t giving me time!"

    Soren pursed his lips and looked at Cui Xukun with raised brows, "That should

    be my line. Besides, why do you sound like an aggrieved little wife?"

    "Brother-inw!" eximed Cui Xukun.

    Sorenughed in reply and sighed, "Why do you want her time?"

    "I want to introduce her to Cloe," replied Cui Xukun. "Cloe is finally willing to

    see my sister. But if my sister continued this streak of ''I''m busyˇŻ, what if it

    changed Cloe''s mind?"

    "I don''t think she''ll change her mind," said Soren certainly. "Cloe isn''t that kind

    of a person. And stop fretting. Cloe would never say that your sister is putting

    on airs. She is also a busy woman. She can rte to Qingging."

    "I should say anything to you," said Cui Xukun. "Cloe is your friend and my

    sister is your wife. At the end of the day, you''ll only find faults in me."

    Soren shrugged, "When your sister introduced me to you back then, you also

    found quite some faults in me as well. What did you say back then... Oh, right.

    ˇ®Jie, your boyfriend is so young. You''re sure he is not just passing time with

    you? Or maybe he is just finding you interesting because you''re a mature

    woman?"

    Cui Xukun coughed to hide his embarrassment, "Brother-inw, you can''t

    me me for that. It''s only right that I won''t trust you at our very first

    meeting."

    "Good thing, I never was looking for your trust," replied Soren. "If I did care

    about that, I won''t have my beautiful family right now."

    "You''re making me sound like a jerk,"mented Cui Xukun.

    "Oh, but the thing is you can really be a jerk sometimes," was Soren''s response.

    "By the way, do you know anything about Raelle? Is she alright? When is she

    discharging?"

    "I''m not sure," replied Cui Xukun. "I don''t think Xian will let her discharge so

    soon."

    "Ask Cloe toe to our house over the weekend," said Soren.

    "Really?" asked Cui Xukun.

    "Yes," answered Soren. "No matter what Qingging will have time over the

    weekend for the kids. So, that''s the perfect time to meet Cloe as well. You bring

    her over."

    "Who ising?"

    Soren looked up at his sister and replied casually, "Kun''s girlfriend ising

    for lunch on Saturday."

    Sora''s expression changed slightly before she maintained her smile and looked

    at Cui Xukun, "You have a girlfriend?"

    "What''s with that question?" asked Cui Xukun in return. "You think I can''t have

    a girlfriend?"

    "No, it''s just that you''ve focused on work for years, so 1 thought you might not

    be interested in dating." She tried to sound casual as she walked past him to

    pour the juice into three sses. She came down to get something to drink for

    her niece and nephew when she heard thest sentence of her brother. Who

    knew she''d get a surprise?

    "I think you''re talking about yourself," said Cui Xukun. "You''re the one who

    likes to hide in your room and write. You should go out and see the world."

    "Aren''t I working out now?" retorted Sora. "My book is getting a movie

    adaptation. I''m also part of the production."

    "So, working in such a dazzling industry, no one caught your eye?"

    "Not everyone who looks good is a good person," she retorted.

    "Excuses!"mented Cui Xukun. "And if you''re so busy, why are you here?"

    "We took a short break. The director is my best friend and something happened

    in her family."

    Cui Xukun leaned over to Soren and whispered, "You should keep an eye on

    your sister, she always is hovering around this best friend of hers."

    "What are you whispering?ˇ± she asked suspiciously.

    "Nothing, I''m just wondering if you''re secretly in love with that best friend of

    yours."

    "Cui Xukun!"

    Cui Xukun touched his ears, "Damn! You''re really hell-bent on making my ears

    bleed today."

    Sora looked at her brother, "Bro, won''t you say anything?"

    "Kun, stop talking nonsense," said Soren lightly. "And you, Sora, go back to

    whatever you''re doing."

    And in this way, he ended the fight that was about to start. He really didn''t

    wish to see it at all..

 Chapter 877: Crunch

    Chapter 877: CrunchDays seemed to be passing really fast. The weather was getting hotter and hotter. Mu Chenyan held her fifth ss of the cold beverage and chugged it down.

    "Chenyan!"

    She straightened up and looked over at Grandfather Xiang, "Yes, Elder Xiang?"

    "Come here and sit down with me," said Grandfather Xiang. "Let''s y a game of go-stop."

    "All of a sudden?"

    "Why? I need to send you an invitation?"

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips and shook her head before she ran over. But soon, she ran back and brought back a ss full of ice cubes with her. She ced the ss on the table and said, "We can start." She picked up the hwatu deck of cards with aplicated look in her eyes. In the end, she couldn''t help asking, "Elder Xiang, why go-stop?"

    "Why? I can''t y it?"

    "No, you can," replied Mu Chenyan. "But you always prefer ying chess or any board games. It''s rare to see you ying a card game."

    "I also want to change the mood once in a while," he stated calmly. "Deal the cards, stop talking nonsense."

    "Oh," was all she said and silently got back to work at hand.

    As they yed, she continued to take an ice cube and crush it with her teeth. She seemed to be enjoying this process way too much.

    Grandfather Xiang continued to observe her during the game and finally asked casually, "Who did you meet the other day?"

    Mu Chenyan''s hand stopped as she was about to throw a card down. She looked up at Grandfather Xiang and answered honestly, "I met my nemesis."

    Grandfather Xiang chuckled heartily, "You met Xia Zhao?"

    Mu Chenyan made a face at him and nodded.

    "You met him after decades, do you have to still put on that face?" he asked. "It seems you still lost your patience around him."

    "Elder Xiang, I don''t lose my patience around him," said Mu Chenyan. "He just frustrated me with his calmness."

    "What''s up this time?" asked Grandfather Xiang curiously. He believed it''d be more interesting to learn about what happened between Mu Chenyan and Xia Zhao than ying the game right now.

    "He refused to sell a painting to me," she told him. She sounded like she was still in disbelief over this fact. "I personally went there and asked him. I even took him out for a meal but he still refused to sell me the painting."

    "Chenyan, what are you upset about? The fact that he sell the painting or the fact that he refused you?"

    Mu Chenyan frowned when she heard that question, "What do you mean?"

    "If I''m not wrong, it''s the first time he refused you of something," stated Grandfather Xiang.

    Mu Chenyan was startled for a moment when she heard that. And she realized that was true. It had to be the first time he refused to give in to her. Whenever she caused trouble, he''d never go against her. If she wanted him to do something, he''d follow along.

    "I think it''s not sitting well with you that he refused to listen to you," added Grandfather Xiang with an amused look in his eyes.

    "No, it''s not like I asked him to give it for free," retorted Mu Chenyan firmly believing that she wasn''t thinking about it at all. "I told him to name a price. He said he couldn''t put a price on that painting. Isn''t that indirectly saying that he just wants to make things difficult for me and not sell it to me?"

    "I don''t think so," said Grandfather Xiang reasonably. He looked at her crunching another ice cube and closed his eyes before saying, "Chenyan, stop snacking on ice. If you''re so craving it, just get someone to make ice shave for you."

    "What''s the fun in that?" she asked. "You don''t understand the satisfaction of crunching on the ice cubes."

    "Yes, I''m old. My teeth can''t take in this kind of fun," was his response.

    Mu Chenyanughed awkwardly and asked, "What were you saying? Why? You don''t think he was making things difficult for me?"

    "Nope, I don''t," he replied taking a deep breath. "He told you clearly he isn''t selling. You should question why isn''t he selling. I don''t think he isn''t just willing to sell it to you."

    Only then did Mu Chenyan recall that indeed, the painting was not for sale. It wasn''t just for her. It was the same rule for everyone else. But that''s the point, when did she be part of ''everyone'' else? It didn''t make sense.

    "Did he sell it to anyone else?" asked Grandfather Xiang and she shook her head. "See? It means he really didn''t intend on selling the painting. That''s ice. Not Xia Zhao. Stop acting like you''re crushing his bones with your teeth."

    Mu Chenyan pressed her lips together and didn''t know how to react to that. She was really exposed before Grandfather Xiang. But she wasn''t embarrassed about it? She was sitting with the father who raised her. How could she feel embarrassment around him? Especially when he was always the one willing to take in all her tantrums?

    "Elder Xiang, I''m not able to understand why he is not selling it."

    "Then let me ask you, why do you want to buy it? Whatt''s special about it?"

    Mu Chenyan shrugged, "I didn''t see anything special. And that''s what bothers me. Why not sell it?"

    "Just because you didn''t find what''s special about it, doesn''t mean it isn''t special. Beauty is in the eye of beholders. Every art has it''s own appreciator. You can''t see everything from the same perspective in life."

    Mu Chenyan sighed, "It''s times like this I believe that you''re really Elle''s grandfather."

    Grandfather Xiang smiled helplessly and touched her head, "You need to stop doubting my identity as her grandfather."

    "I never doubted it," she replied.

    "I don''t believe you," he said.

    "How can you not? You always believe me."

    "Sometimes, even I''m unwilling to believe in you. But the one thing I have faith in is that, you''re definitely a part of our family."

 Chapter 878: Liberal Society

    Chapter 878: Liberal SocietyGrandfather Xiang really had no doubt that Mu Chenyan was a part of their family. After all, only their family genes were filled with violence but were oblivious to the matters of the heart. And Mu Chenyan was just like that.

    In fact, he knew for a long time that the rtionship between Mu Chenyan and Xia Zhao was strange. It was a veryplicated one. While Xia Zhao was a quiet and calm one, Mu Chenyan was the hyper one. They were exactly simr in temperament but they still got along. Well, in their own way, they did get along.

    They couldn''t be considered best of friends and couldn''t be considered more than friends either. But calling them enemies would be wrong as well. In a true sense, they never had a fight. At least, not a serious one. The daily bickering was different and even during that, most of the time only Mu Chenyan put effort into having thest say. Xia Zhao was always very careless.

    But even a blind could tell that Xia Zhao treated Mu Chenyan differently. Even with his nonchnt nature, he had always been attentive to Mu Chenyan. He never missed a single detail rted to her.

    Just considering Mu Chenyan''s looks and background was enough to make a long queue of suitors who wanted to get her attention. But even if Xia Zhao treated Mu Chenyan differently, he never tried to get her attention. It was always Mu Chenyan who went to create chaos in his quiet and peaceful life.

    To be honest, Grandfather Xiang didn''t know what Xia Zhao felt for Mu Chenyan. Whether it was love or not, he couldn''t tell. Xia Zhao never voiced out his feelings for some reason. But his actions did give people ideas. But then he looked at Hyson and Raelle making him contemte deeply. Hyson says soulmates are not always lovers. That''s what Grandfather Xiang began to believe in as well over time. And now, he was certain that Xia Zhao was Mu Chenyan''s soulmate.

    However, he couldn''t describe the category of this soulmate for now. He needed to see more.

    "Why don''t you invite him over?" suggested Grandfather Xiang.

    Mu Chenyan shook her head, "No way. You have always liked him. If I called him here, won''t I be losing my position?"

    Grandfather Xiangughed helplessly, "You''re our family''s daughter. How can an outsider take your ce?"

    Mu Chenyan scratched her head and grinned foolishly, "That''s right." She thought about it before replying, "Then I''ll see if I can call him. He had always respected you a lot, how about you bring up the topic of buying his painting?"

    Grandfather Xiang was suddenly very curious about this painting she kept mentioning. He really wanted to see what was about that painting that she was so obsessed with it. Was it just that she felt like she was losing the privilege she had in Xia Zhao''s life? Or something else?

    Whatever it was, he had to see this painting to get an idea.

    "You invite him over and ask him to bring the painting, I want to see it."

    Mu Chenyan''s eyes sparkled, "Good idea. Then I can steal it."

    "Do you really think you''d be able to steal anything from him?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    "Elder Xiang, you can''t look down on your daughter like this," she pouted. "If pushes to shove, I''m really gonna make him sit with Elle. I''m sure that fool won''t be able to win in an argument with our Elle."

    Grandfather Xiang wasn''t even surprised by her words. He had to say it wasn''t the first time Mu Chenyan had this idea of using Raelle''s eloquence to her advantage. You see, Mu Chenyan was a straightforward person but she wasn''t good with words. She needed some help from her niece who never gave anyone a chance to get an inch on a negotiation table.

    "By the way, how is his family?" asked Grandfather Xiang in passing. "His father, mother, brother. Oh, and what about his wife? Does he have kids?"

    "I don''t know," she replied and suddenly frowned, "Elder Xiang, he doesn''t have a brother."

    Grandfather Xiang rubbed his temples as he told her, "He does have a younger brother. He was born when you guys were 16. His parents had him in their old age."

    "Something like that happened?" she muttered to herself. "Howe I didn''t know?" Since she couldn''t recall anything rted to it, she quickly got over it and decided to inquire about itter on. For now, she continued to answer Grandfather Xiang''s questions, "Oh, about his wife... He doesn''t have one. That''s what he told him. I thought he''d be together with his college girlfriend but I guess I was wrong. As for a kid... Who knows? I didn''t ask."

    Grandfather Xiang gave her a look, "He isn''t married so of course there is no need to ask about kids."

    "Elder Xiang, you''re really innocent,"mented Mu Chenyan like Miss know-it-all. "People are very liberal now. Just because you aren''t married doesn''t mean you can''t have kids. Who made that rule? There is no such rule in today''s society. Besides, even I have two kids and I didn''t get married either."

    Of course, the two kids that she spoke of were Hyson and Raelle without a doubt. No one had to even ask it to know. And she said it so naturally that no one would even want to question it either.

    "And why are you asking me about his parents? Don''t you have a friendship with his father? I don''t think you both lost contact over the years. You could just ask him."

    "We don''t talk about our personal lives," answered Grandfather Xiang.

    "What do you guys then talk about? Weather?"

    "Chenyan, is your body itching?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    "No," she replied. "I''m perfectly fine."

    "Oh, I thought it''s itching so I should give you a good massage with a cane!"

    "Elder Xiang, you don''t have a cane!" Sheughed out loud making Grandfather Xiang take a deep breath.

 Chapter 879: What A Coincidence!

    Chapter 879: What A Coincidence!After he calmed down, he said, "If you''re doneughing, go and check up on Yue. No preferably, drag her out of her room and take her out to get some fresh air. She stays in her room every day working on the wedding dress. Neither does she pity her eyes nor her own fingers."

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her chin and nodded in agreement, "Indeed, my sweet darling is being too much these days. Does she think I won''t do anything?"

    "Then do something," said Grandfather Xiang. "Now, stop spoiling my mood and disappear!"

    "Oh," was all that she said and got up to leave. She turned back and took her ss of ice cubes. Well, there were no ice cubes left in it but she had to retrieve the ss and take it back. "Comrade Mu will aplish the task, Sir!"

    Grandfather Xiang let could a helplessugh and waved her away.

    Mu Chenyan happily ran off. She first left off the empty ss in the kitchen then she went upstairs to find Yue Yue. Lookinng at her still working attentively, Mu Chenyan felt frustrated.

    "Yo, my Yue Yue! Get up! We''re going out."

    Yue Yue looked up and took off her spectacles as she gave Mu Chenyan a confused look.

    "Don''t look at me like I''m wasting your time," said Mu Chenyan. "It''s about work."

    ''What work?''

    "How can you forget that we started a clothing brand together?"

    ''You said my job is just being the beautiful head designer of thepany who can create beautiful designs. The rest is your responsibility.''

    Mu Chenyan rolled her eyes at her, "I know I know. I don''t have amnesia. I remember what I said to you. And see, I stick by my words. Did I disturb you during this time? I found the factory, workers, management, sales channel, partners, shops, publicity, etc etc. I worked out everything on my own. But today is different. We are opening three outlets in the city. We can ignore other outlets in other cities but not here. Especially the one store that I have decided to be our base. It''s in the shopping za close to our vi." She took a breath and continued, "So, get dressed ande down. We''re checking up on the store."

    ''Do I have to?'' asked Yue Yue.

    "If you asked another dumb question, I''m gonna carry you on my shoulder like a sack," threatened Mu Chenyan. "Or you''d prefer the princess carry?"

    Yue Yue took a step back and waved her hands before she used signnguage to say, ''I choose to walk on my own.''

    "Good girl!" responded Mu Chenyan happily. "Get ready. I''m waiting."

    Yue Yue knew she won''t be able to get out of this since she could tell from Mu Chenyan''s stance just now. She could either walk on her own or be dragged by Mu Chenyan. It seemed Mu Chenyan was hell-bent on taking her out today. She sighed and entered her bedroom to find another dress to change into.

    On the other hand, Mu Chenyan descended the stairs in a good mood.

    "Yanyan looks happy."

    Mu Chenyan looked at Hyson and smiled at him beautifully, "I''m always happy."

    "That''s my dialogue," said Hyson.

    "And you''re my godson," she squished his cheeks as she spoke.

    Hyson chuckled, "I can''t even argue with that." He looked at the bag she was carrying and asked, "Going somewhere?"

    Mu Chenyan didn''t hide it from him and said, "I''m taking your mother out."

    "So, it''s a date?"

    Mu Chenyan looked at his amused expression and nodded, "It''s a date!"

    "Then I wish you all the best, step-father!"

    Mu Chenyan burst outughing and tousled his hair before pinching his nose, "You really... Forget it. I love you anyway."

    "What a coincidence! So do I."

    "What are you busy with?" she asked. "I feel like I''m seeing you less and less at home these days? Are you that busy with your matchmaking business?"

    Hyson shook his head, "Nah. Since I took some time off from the shooting, my manager told me to join some activities within the city. I''m not as free as I''d like to be."

    "Oh, my poor son!"

    Hyson also cooperated and pouted, "I''m really pitiful these days."

    "Don''t tire yourself," said Mu Chenyan. She fixed his hair gently as she went on, "Don''t forget to eat on time. And you can take breaks if necessary. Don''t push yourself. I know you don''t like being the privileged one but it''s okay to exploit your status once in a while."

    "I''ll keep that in mind," he was listening to her instructions carefully. He knew she didn''t like seeing him tiring himself for work.

    "So, you''re also leaving? Do you want toe with us? We''ll drop you off along the way," suggested Mu Chenyan when she noticed Yue Yue hade down as well and was ready to leave.

    Hyson thought about it for a minute before he nodded, "Okay. I''ll go with you both. I never had the experience of my parents taking me to school. Well, now it''s work but I''ll just assume it''s the same."

    Although he said it very lightly, Mu Chenyan felt it on a very deep level. She held his arm and took his out, "Then I have to drop my son off to work more in the future."

    Behind them, Yue Yue looked at them in silence and didn''t say anything. What could she even say? She didn''t want toe between these two. Her status in both their lives would lower a little when they were together. In normal times, she was the priority of Mu Chenyan and Hyson. As she was the best friend of one and the mother of the other one. But when these two came together, no one coulde between them.

    All of them got in the car with Mu Chenyan personally taking the seat behind the steering wheel. Seeing her wearing her sses heroically, Yue Yue had a bad premonition and couldn''t help holding her arm.

 Chapter 880: For The Sake Of It

    Chapter 880: For The Sake Of ItAnd Yue Yue''s bad premonition came true when Mu Chenyan chose to drive like she was on a race track. She held the seatbelt tightly as she closed her eyes and prayed for her life. There was nothing she could do about it, her best friend loved to drive like she was on a race track. It wasn''t even the first time for Yue Yue but she was still not used to this fast speed.

    She was after all a delicate littledy. She didn''t grow up as hard as Mu Chenyan. She was a very average person in her own opinion who was afraid of heights, speeds, and anything dangerous. Wasn''t that how normal humans would react?

    And she wasn''t all that ambitious in life toe out and challenge her phobias to get over them. She didn''t think there was any need for that at all. But Mu Chenyan always thought differently.

    "Open your eyes and see the world, Yue!" said Mu Chenyan. Then she tsked, "I should have taken out the convertible. It''d be even more fun."

    "I agree!" said Hyson from the back seat. He didn''t seem to mind the speed at all as he scrolled on his phone leisurely.

    Yue Yue also pulled out her phone and typed before using her virtual assistant literally shout at Mu Chenyan, ''Who drives an expensive limited edition, Bentley, like a race car?!''

    "I do!" replied Mu Chenyan with augh.

    Yue Yue rubbed the bridge of her nose and Hyson asked, "Mum, are you okay? You should really rx once in a while."

    ''I''m fine!''

    Mu Chenyan snickered, "He isn''t a three-year-old. I don''t think he''ll fall for that."

    "I really don''t!" was Hyson''s response before he said to Mu Chenyan, "Yanyan, y some music."

    "You can choose," replied Mu Chenyan.

    Hyson did exactly that and then both Hyson and Mu Chenyan started singing along making Yue Yue lean her head against the window. Today was another day, she had the urge to pull this son of hers and get a DNA test done. Because she really couldn''t believe he was really her son.

    Why did he seem more and more like Mu Chenyan?

    Yue Yue was certain she gave birth to him. She couldn''t even think of the possibility of having someone exchange her baby with another in the hospital since Hyson wasn''t even born in a hospital. She gave birth at home!

    So, this was definitely her one and only son. He just didn''t inherit anything from her genes. Maybe the influence of Mu Chenyan was greater than genes. Tsk. How could someone fight with that?

    Mu Chenyan''s singing voice wasn''t exactly pretty and neither did she keep note of rhythm but she was able to shamelessly sing with her confidence alone. And this carefree carpool karaoke session was more than enjoyable for Hyson.

    And that''s why he was very regretful when she stopped the car in front of hispany building. He pouted unhappily and dragged his feet out saying, "Then, have fun on your date."

    ''It''s not a date!''

    Hyson ignored his mother''s opinion as he firmly insisted, "It''s a date if I say so." He closed the door as he alighted and looked at the entrance door. Before he could leave, the windowpane was rolled down and Mu Chenyan craned out her neck blinking at him with her sparkling eyes. She actually unfastened her seatbelt and was practically all over Yue Yue''s side giving a veryical view.

    "My little Fai, should I pick you up as well?" asked Mu Chenyan with her eager eyes.

    "I''m staying for a while," replied Hyson with a gentle smile. He fixed his face mask before adding, "Don''t worry. I''ll find my way back home."

    "Then don''t work toote," she instructed looking heartbroken for her poor godson who had to work so hard.

    Yue Yue pped her arm and pulled her back. She rolled up the window and waved at her son who waved back and watched them drive away. He looked really happy for some reason and very rxed as well.

    On their way back, Yue Yue noticed that the way they were going was actually theplete opposite of Hyson''spany. It meant, their destination wasn''t in the same direction. But Mu Chenyan still insisted on giving a ride to Hyson. Yue Yue didn''t know how to feel about that.

    It was things like these that made her not even want to question whether Hyson was her son or Mu Chenyan''s. It was fine as long as her son had someone who seemed to actually love him more than his own mother. If that was even possible.

    Most people would say it wasn''t possible but Yue Yue, as a mother, would like to say that it was possible if the other person was Mu Chenyan. She didn''t know why but Mu Chenyan didn''t even need a reason to love someone with all her heart. She just loved everyone in her life with all she got. She was never half hearted and maybe that''s why, no one treated her half heartedly as well.

    You get what you give.

    Since Mu Chenyan gave people sincerity she received it in return as well. It wasn''t that difficult to see.

    Mu Chenyan finally parked the car in the underground parking lot and alighted with Yue Yue. Mu Chenyan took her iPad with her while Yue Yue was just holding her phone. She was just here to watch anyway.

    "This is the biggest shopping mall in the city at the moment," told Mu Chenyan. "They have a variety of entertainment facilities as well. I heard even the restaurants are very good. So, how about after the inspection we go for some food together? We haven''t eaten out together in days. No... It''s been weeks."

    ''As if my opinion matters,'' was Yue Yue''s response.

    "Of course, your boring opinions don''t matter. I''m just asking for the sake of it," replied Mu Chenyan with a cheeky grin. "You know, just to sound polite."

    ''Don''t bother. It doesn''t suit your image.''

 Chapter 881: To The Pinnacle

    Chapter 881: To The Pinnacle

    The store that Mu Chenyan had chosen was on the third floor. Yue Yue could

    see the store the very instant they got down the elevator. The brand name they

    had picked was ''SpringˇŻ. It was just that simple.

    And the story behind was even simpler. Hyson''s real name was Fai which

    meant the beginning of something. And Hyson literally meant flourishing

    spring. Since Spring is considered the new beginning of nts and growth,

    Hyson''s two doting mothers thought it was a befitting name for their brand.

    Hyson was the reason, Yue Yue found the courage to even take this new step at

    this age. So, it was only right to name it after her son in a subtle way.

    And even if Yue Yue''s only job in thepany was to take care of the designs

    and choose the right fabrics and stuff, it didn''t mean she had no say in the

    company. She had seen the interior designs of other stores they were preparing

    but this was her first time actually seeing it in person.

    She had to say she couldn''tin about anything. But then again, no

    matter how wild Mu Chenyan was, she was a very serious person when it came

    to working. She always knew what she was doing. Or else, she wouldn''t have

    been so unrestrained in her life. It wasn''t just the family backgrounds behind

    her, it was also her own capabilities that no one could pick any fault with.

    "Miss Mu!" the manager of the store came out to greet Mu Chenyan with a

    polite smile. She didn''t look like she was ttering anyone or anything. She

    seriously looked like she meant business. She looked at the petite woman

    behind Mu Chenyan and instantly greeted her, "Miss Yue!"

    Yue Yue was taken aback when she heard her addressing herself. She looked at

    Mu Chenyan who had a satisfied look on her face and didn''t even have to ask

    anything. Both of them looked around the store. While Mu Chenyan was

    discussing the sales, marketing, and stuff, Yue Yue was leisurely roaming

    around.

    She never thought she''d see her own designed clothes hanging in a store this

    big. No, she once did dream about it when she first started fashion designing.

    But that dream was long forgotten. Now, that it came true, she couldn''t

    understand how she was feeling. Especially when she heard the praises of the

    girls regarding her designs.

    She happily passed by them and found a fortune nt ced in the corner and

    so she walked to it. She was touching it when another sales girl came to her

    side and said, "Miss Yue, would you like to sit down? Should I bring anything to

    drink?"

    Yue Yue subconsciously used her signnguage to say, "There is no need.ˇŻ

    But then she facemed herself and was about to type when she heard from

    the sales girl, "You don''t have to type. I understand. Then you please let me

    know if you need anything. No, you can ask anyone in the store. We all know

    signnguage. Please, don''t hesitate tomunicate with us. We are happy to

    be of help. You''re our brand''s gold designer. And we all are a fan."

    Yue Yue felt her cheeks burning. She had never been praised like this. But even

    more so, it took her by surprise that the staff knew signnguage. She frowned

    and couldn''t help asking, ''You all knew signnguage?ˇŻ

    "Yes," answered the sales girl. "It was one of the requirements for getting the

    job."

    Yue Yue was seriously taken aback. She never thought Mu Chenyan would y

    like this. She looked over at Mu Chenyan who was discussing something

    seriously with the manager about the official opening of the store. She felt

    helpless and also very warm in her heart.

    She didn''t know how Mu Chenyan was always able to make her feel this way.

    This woman was really not easy to understand. Who would put signnguage

    as a requirement for the job? She knew she did it to make her feelfortable

    enough to talk to others and not feel nervous.

    It wasn''t that hard to understand.

    "How do you like the store?" asked Mu Chenyan as she walked up to her. "Does

    this match our designer or should we change something?"

    ˇ®It''s perfect!ˇŻ replied Yue Yue with a happy smile.

    "You like it?" asked Mu Chenyan further.

    ˇ®Llove it!"

    Mu Chenyan heaved a sigh of relief, "Then I can feel reassured." She looked

    around casually as she said, "Everything is ready. We don''t have to specifically

    come for the opening or anything. So, I had toe earlier to check if

    everything is in ce. It does seem like everything is on track."

    ˇ®How can it not be when you''re the one managing everything?"

    Mu Chenyan grinned, "Indeed. How can I, Mu Chenyan go wrong?" She hugged

    Yue Yue''s arm saying, "Besides, I have to make sure my girlfriend''s name

    resounds in the designingmunity. How can I take this casually? It''s my

    mission to fly you to the pinnacle!"

    ˇ®I don''t want to go that far,'' said Yue Yue. ''It''s lonely at the top.ˇŻ

    "Tsk. Silly! How can you be lonely when you have a capable, gorgeous, amazing

    girlfriend like me beside you?"

    Yue Yueughed silently but seeing herughing so carefreely, Mu Chenyan

    felt good. Well, it''s not like she was doing this for profit. She got enough

    dividends at the end of the year from all her shares. She didn''tck the profit

    from this clothing brand. It was entirely for Yue Yue.

    Because she wanted her best friend to realize that she was equally amazing.

    And there was no need for her to hide behind anyone. Not behind her or behind

    her son. She could just stand on her own two feet and show the world what she

    was made of. Just because she lost her voice, didn''t make her any less capable..

    Neg

 Chapter 882: Be Filial

    Chapter 882: Be Filial

    ˇ®Why did you have to hire people who knew signnguage?"

    Mu Chenyan was trying to decide where to take her best friend for fun when

    Yue Yue held her arm and asked that question. Mu Chenyan frowned and

    pursed her lips a bit before saying, "What''s wrong with that?"

    "You didn''t have to go this far for my sake.ˇŻ

    "Who said I''m doing this for you?" retorted Mu Chenyan strongly. "You''re not

    the only person who can''t speak. There are other people who are born with this

    disability. Those who can''t hear or speak. And who said such people won''t be

    our shop''s patrons? Clothes are a necessity and who doesn''t love beautiful

    clothes. We can''t choose our customers. We shouldn''t discriminate like this.

    This discrimination is the reason people lose their self-esteem. Just like you

    did."

    Yue Yue had no way to argue with that.

    Mu Chenyan lost her serious look and asked, "How about we go bowling?" But

    then she looked at her best friend and shook her head, "No, your delicate arm

    might break down. Besides, I shouldn''t hurt your talented hands." She touched

    her chin thoughtfully, "So, what should we do? How about we go to the arcade

    section and y?"

    "That''s for kids or teenagers!

    "I don''t see a notice outside it that saysdies our age are not allowed," was Mu

    Chenyan''s response. "Besides, we are middle-aged. Not that old, okay?"

    Mu Chenyan was in a dilemma about what to do. After all, the activities in her

    mind were all tiring. But she brought Yue Yue out to rx so she had to be

    considerate. What could they possibly do?

    In the end, she did drag Yue Yue to the arcade section and yed around. She

    even helped Yue Yue catch a plushie from the w machine which actually

    excited Yue Yue so much that she jumped. Mu Chenyan found her happiness a

    bit silly because it was just a plushie in her opinion but whatever. It made her

    best friend happy so she was willing to catch another one!

    Later, they went to a restaurant and had lunch together. And after lunch, they

    watched a movie as well. Mu Chenyan''s energy was endless as always but Yue

    Yue was tired by this point. Although she did have a lot of fun, she hadn''t run

    around so much for so long that she was easily tired now.

    "Your stamina is so bad," said Mu Chenyan in disdain. "This is why I told you to

    join my workout."

    ''T''ll die if I followed your workout regime.''

    "I''m not that inhumane," said Mu Chenyan. "Let''s have some ice cream? After

    that, we''ll go to the spa!"

    "There is still spa?"

    "Of course! After the professional massage, you''ll feel good and rxed!"

    ˇ®No, we''re going home after the ice cream!ˇŻ

    Mu Chenyan hugged her arm and yed the role of a coquettish girlfriend,

    "You can''t do that. What about the spa? You''reing with me. Don''t say no,

    darling. You''ll break your boyfriend''s heart."

    Yue Yue pushed her face away that was getting ufortably close in

    displeasure but the tilt of her lips couldn''t hide her amusement as well. She

    really couldn''t understand how Mu Chenyan even did this. Was it okay for her

    to m down her heroic image and stomp on it by acting cute?

    Both of them were having fun teasing, pushing, and pulling at each other.

    Unbeknownst to them, there were other people at the shopping mall too.

    It was none other than Elder Yue and his wife, Yue Yue''s parents. They had

    come to the jade jewelry to find a suitable gift. After buying the gift, they

    walked out and that''s when Madam Yue''s eyes caught sight of Yue Yue who was

    smiling helplessly at the antics of the woman beside her.

    Her feet paused and she was frozen to her ce. Madam Yue couldn''t believe

    her eyes. She thought she was old and her eyes were seeing wrong. So, she

    rubbed her eyes but still was able to see her daughter from afar. There was

    quite some distance between them but she was still able to recognize her

    daughter.

    Tears brimmed into her eyes and she covered her mouth as an audible cry

    escaped from her throat.

    "Let''s go," said Elder Yue. "What are you looking at?"

    Madam Yue held his wrist and said, "Master, my daughter!"

    "What?"

    Madam Yue pointed towards where she saw Yue Yue but now, no one was there.

    She was baffled and at a loss. "No, she was just here," she mumbled to herself.

    She rushed to look for her daughter.

    "Where are you going?" Elder Yue couldn''t understand Madam Yue''s actions

    right now. He passed the shopping bag to his assistant before he also followed

    his wife.

    It took her five minutes for Madam Yue to find Yue Yue again as she stood

    before a jewelry store while Mu Chenyan was trying to drag her in. She ran over

    and only when she reached close was she able to hear the argument.

    "Come, let''s buy you new earrings!" Mu Chenyan was saying but Yue Yue

    refused to budge. "Don''t you love earrings? I heard they have new designs!"

    ˇ®No!

    "I''m not paying!" Mu Chenyan said. "It''s our son-inw. Let''s give him the

    chance to be a bit filial to us, eh? This is the brand his mother left to him. Trust

    me. It''s not my money. I just want to seriously give my son-inw a chance to

    tter me."

    Yue Yue obviously didn''t buy that stupid excuse. As if anyone could tter Mu

    Chenyan with money. She was the money mine herself. Who would be daring

    enough to tter her with money?

    "Yue''er!"

    Hearing an aged and choked-up voice, Yue Yue was confused and turned to

    look. But when she faced the old woman standing before her, she was taken

    aback for a moment. The woman''s tears fell when Yue Yue turned at her call.

    No one could tell whether those tears were of sadness or happiness but it didn''t

    matter to Yue Yue right now..

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 Chapter 883: Confrontation

    Chapter 883: Confrontation"Why did youe here?"

    Yue Yue looked behind her mother and found her father walking over. Her body stiffened when she saw him. And it was also the time when Elder Yue also noticed Yue Yue and his eyes widened in surprise.

    "Yue''er!" he called out.

    For years, Yue Yue had thought she would never run into these people. But the strange thing was, she still thought of what would it be like to stand in front of them again. Especially after she met Zhai Kuijun, she had a feeling that she won''t be able to run from her past for long.

    Standing before her parents today, she realized for the first time that the past she ran from was only associated with Zhai Kuijun. The emotional ups and downs she had facing him weren''t present when she faced her own parents. But why? Why was she not feeling anything? Was she really numb after all these years?

    But she was never a callous person. She knew she still loved and respected her parents.

    However, the admiration she once held for them was gone. The protection she once thought they''d provide, the sense of security or warmth that parents should give... All of those things, she could never expect from them anymore. And since expectations were long gone, maybe disappointment was no longer there as well.

    Madam Yue cried and rushed to embrace Yue Yue but before she could hold her daughter in her arms, Mu Chenyan pulled Yue Yue back and stood in front of her. The way she looked at Elder Yue and Madam Yue was vignt. She looked like a lioness protecting her territory and the look in her eyes was terrifying.

    Yue Yue was startled when Mu Chenyan pulled her back and even shielded her behind her back. She suddenly felt a tingling in her nose. She didn''t feel like crying when she stood before her parents but she did now when she realized someone was protecting her. Mu Chenyan was always taller than Yue Yue and she could easily wrap Yue Yue in her towering shadow. But this shadow provided the warmth that was intoxicating.

    "Keep your distance from her," said Mu Chenyan losing all the yfulness she earlier had. Now, her eyes were like bottomless pits that could suck anyone in. Cold and bereft of any emotion.

    Both Elder Yue and Madam Yue were surprised by Mu Chenyan''s reaction. Madam Yue even forgot to cry under Mu Chenyan''s frigid gaze.

    "Yue''er, you don''t want to see mom?"

    "Whose mother are you?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Don''t try to associate yourself with our family."

    "She is my daughter," said Madam Yue.

    "Oh? Do you have proof?" retorted Mu Chenyan. "If I''m not wrong, you threw her out of the house and the family, years ago. Her name doesn''t even exist in the genealogy of your family. What makes you think you can call her your daughter? Does she look like recyble trash to you? You threw her away like trash back then and now, your motherly love wants to recycle that trash?"

    Yue Yue''s lips twitched when she heard that, ''Recyble trash?'' She didn''t know how to react but she actually wanted tough subconsciously for some reason. She had no doubt in Mu Chenyan''s fighting prowess so she felt nothing hiding behind her. It wasn''t that she wanted to hide but that it felt good to receive this protection. Besides, at this time, she knew Mu Chenyan won''t let her stand at the forefront.

    Sigh! Having an over-protective best friend was a true sweet burden!

    "Miss, I think this is between us and our daughter," spoke Elder Yue with aplicated look in his eyes.

    "Your daughter must be home," said Mu Chenyan. "You should go look for her. As I said, don''t try to tie yourself with my family. I, Mu Chenyan am not a soft presimmon. And neither is anyone from my family. Ask around what kind of a devil I am and you''d understand."

    Mu Chenyan wanted to leave with Yue Yue when Madam Yue spoke up, "Yue''er! How can you let an outsider insult your father? Have you forgotten all the manners? As a daughter, shouldn''t you stand up for your father''s prestige?"

    "Why should she?" Mu Chenyan shot back. "Yo, olddy. It seems you didn''t hear me clearly. Keep your voice down. Try to order around my Yue one more time. I''m being very nice considering your old age but my patience is running low. Don''t test me. She already repaid you everything she owed the night you abandoned her. You, a mother who could never stand up for her own daughter despite knowing everything don''t deserve to stand on the moral high ground.

    "Our family''s Yue doesn''t stand on the same ground as you anymore. Even your family will have to look up to see her but you can''t reach her."

    Madam Yue wanted to say something more when Elder Yue held her back and said, "Seeing that you''re living well and have someone to protect you, father is relieved. Thank you for being alive!"

    Mu Chenyanughed out mockingly, "Oh, of course, you''re relieved now. You won''t have to live with the guilt anymore. But guess what, that guilt will stay with you and I''ll make sure of that!"

    Yue Yue held her back and used her signnguage to say, ''Stop it. Let''s leave.''

    Mu Chenyan''s expressions softened and she looked aggrieved, "They started the argument."

    Yue Yue didn''t know what to say. Clearly, she was the one who snapped at people but she was the one trying to sell pity in front of her? How unbelievable!

    ''It''s done. We should leave.''

    "Fine!" said Mu Chenyan and threw a re at the old couple before walking away with a swagger of the Queen, not forgetting to protect Yue Yue in her arms as she took her away. She obviously wasn''t satisfied with this confrontation but she thought, the future was still hers.

 Chapter 884: No Entanglment

    Chapter 884 No Entanglment

    Father Yue''s body started trembling lightly. Not because Mu Chenyan''s words got to him. In fact, the only reason he stayed quiet

    was that he knew she was standing on the side of truth. Every word she said was like a stab but it was all true that he couldn''t

    deny even if he wanted to.

    But he was also telling the truth when he said he was relieved to see that Yue Yue had someone to protect her, to stand up for

    her without a care. He didn''t know what rtionship they had but he didn''t care. He was aged and could clearly tell that Mu

    Chenyan was very protective of Yue Yue. It really made his mind ease up a little.

    However, seeing Yue Yue using signnguage tomunicate seemed to have struck him like lightning. He felt like the air

    around him was getting thinner and he couldn''t breathe properly. Why? Why wasn''t she speaking? What happened? He couldn''t

    understand at all.

    He was about to fall from this mental turmoil when his assistant supported him from behind.

    "Master!" called out Mother Yue and held his arm. "Master, what happened to you?" Her reddened eyes dropped a couple of

    tears as she continued, "Are you thinking about Yue''er? Master, don''t stress yourself. She has lost her manners and doesn''t

    respect you anymore."

    "Shut up!" gritted Father Yue as he red at her. "What right do you or I have to ask her to respect us? Do you really think you

    can do whatever you want because you gave birth to her? Then think again, that woman is right. You lost the right to stand on

    the moral high ground long ago. Way before we even pushed Yue''er out of our life!"

    Mother Yue pressed her lips together and didn''t dare to argue. Even she knew he was right. It was just that perhaps, she was

    used to seeing the submissive Yue Yue, the daughter who never went against her words even if she was being wronged. So,

    seeing how the same daughter didn''t even put her in her eyes, really made her heart feel stifled.

    Father Yue looked at his assistant, "Si, go and look where they went. I want to know why my daughter wasn''t speaking."

    The assistant looked conflicted before he said, "I won''t be able to catch up."

    "Then go and investigate the woman beside Yue''er. She said her name is Mu Chenyan."

    Download

    The assistant was silent before saying, "I''ll look into it. First, let me take you to the hospital."

    All free and unlocked chapters

    This time, Father Yue didn''t refuse his help.

    On the other hand, Yue Yue was really trying to minimize her presence around Mu Chenyan. After all, the current Mu Chenyan

    looked like a raging volcano. She obviously had a lot to say to Yue Yue''s parents but her best friend stopped her so she walked

    away. Now, that she didn''t get to spit out theva bubbling inside of her, it was corroding her insides.

    Apply Voucher

    Getting in the car, she drove away in silence without mentioning the spa again. Just after a short drive of five minutes, she

    parked the car and ran out. Yue Yue didn''t know why she stopped in front of a cafe but soon, Mu Chenyan came out with two

    Chapterments

    disposable cups in her hands. She got in and gave one to Yue Yue.

    Yue Yue took a sip and enjoyed the taste of refreshing iced tea. But on the other hand, Mu Chenyan opened the lid of the cup

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    and took an ice cube into her mouth to crunch on. Yue Yue felt like the sound was simr to crunching on someone''s bones.

    Terrifying!

    She had never seen her best friend look this terrifying before!

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    She slowly and cautiously ced her hand on Mu Chenyan''s arm who looked over.

    ''Why are you so mad?''

    "You have to ask?" was Mu Chenyan''s response. "I''m surprised that you''re not mad at all! Why do you have to be so nice? Can''t

    you stand up for yourself? Respect yourself a little."

    Rmend this book

    Yue Yue made a face at her, ''I''m not mad because I didn''t feel the need to do so. Seeing them didn''t make me feel anything.

    Neither happiness nor sadness. And anger? I thought that was even more pointless. Why bother?''

    Help center

    Mu Chenyan silently mulled over her words before saying, "Those are your parents. Are you sure you didn''t feel anything? Not

    even disappointment?"

    Yue Yue shook her head, ''You spoke the truth. Whatever I owed them, I paid them back that night when I was thrown out. Now,

    I don''t owe them anything. My entanglement with them has ended and I''d like to keep it that way.''

    Mu Chenyan tried to see if she was telling the truth and it seemed she was indeed speaking the truth. She found it surprising.

    "But when you met Zhai Kuijun, you didn''t look like you didn''t care about the past."

    ''He... He is different from them,'' was Yue Yue''s response. ''From the moment, I knew him, he did everything to protect me from

    the malice that surrounded me. Even when my parents didn''t, he always stood in front of me like a shield. And in return, I

    actually ruined his life. If not for me, Yue Lan would have never tried to lure him with her fake love. And he wouldn''t have been

    trapped in that unhappy marriage for so long.''

    She took a moment before adding, ''I feel sorry for him. But I don''t feel anything for that family anymore. I just can''t stop my

    feelings for Zhai Kuijun. After all, I have a son with him. Even if I deny it, our entanglement won''t end as long as Fai is around.''

    Mu Chenyan leaned her head and sighed heavily. She bit down another ice cube and said, "Lately, I''ve been craving ice too

    much."

    ''I think you''re just itching to beat someone.''

    Mu Chenyan was startled by her statement.

    Yue Yue shrugged, ''You''re short-tempered these days.''

    Damn it! She was doing a poor job at hiding her emotions.

 Chapter 885: [Bonus chapter] Bizarre Case

    Chapter 885: [Bonus chapter] Bizarre CaseRaelle put the ss of water on the table and sat on the sofa. She looked at Anna who was still standing and said, "Just sit down."

    "Yes," said Anna and took a seat.

    "Tell me," started Raelle. "Tell me everything you know."

    "Where should I begin?" asked Anna.

    "Let''s start from my mother-inw," suggested Raelle. "Was it an ident or a man-made ident?"

    Anna had a strange expression before stating, "It was an ident."

    "Oh?" Raelle responded. "So, the Tang family is truly innocent?"

    "No," replied Anna.

    "What do you mean?"

    "Although Mrs. Shui really died in an ident, that''s only because her life was at its end," said Anna. She took out her tablet and offered it to Raelle saying, "I''ll say this is the most bizarre case of my life. As you can see, the Tang family indeed nned to kill Mrs. Shui in an ident. Everything was prepared. But fate had its own n."

    Raelle looked through the information she passed her seriously.

    "The ident was nned to happen on the 5th avenue intersection but Mrs. Shui lost control of the car at the previous intersection and got into an ident that took her life. So, I''m not sure whether I should say the Tang family is innocent or not. It''s hard for me to decide. What would you say, Missy?"

    Raelle finally understood why she said this was a bizarre case. Even she''d say the same. Someone nned to kill Mrs. Shui on that night but fate took her life even before any human could. If she hadn''t lost control of her car, she''d have gotten into an ident nned by the Tang family. One way or another, she was actually meant to die that night.

    So, that''s what they mean when they say, man has a thousand ns, heaven but one.

    You can n all you want, but you can never fight against heaven''s will.

    No matter what, Raelle was actually satisfied with this result. She definitely didn''t want to tell her husband that his ex-wife''s family killed his mother. That''d be really pushing him down the edge and she couldn''t do that. Now, it was at least easier to tell him that his mother did die in an ident. As for whether to talk about the Tang family''s ns or not... She''ll have to think about how and when to mention it to him.

    Right now was definitely not a good time for this revtion.

    "This is heaven ying its game," added Anna.

    Raelle nodded in agreement with her and looked up at her, "What about the other thing I asked about? Justin... Tang Hebe''s dear son. What do you know?"

    "Nothing," answered Anna honestly.

    "Nothing?" repeated Raelle.

    "Nothing at all before his adoption at least," added Anna. "His information that we got is after he was adopted by Tang Hebe two years ago. Before that, there is no information. Obviously, there are signs of someone purposely removing his existence but we aren''t able to uncover anything. I tried everything in my power but it didn''t work."

    "So, you don''t know how his mother or father is?" asked Raelle.

    "Yes," replied Anna. "We don''t know anything about that. In fact, Miss Tang Hebe adopted him in Country M but when we went there, it was obvious that only legal adoption processing was done there. Both Miss Tang and Justin never lived there at all."

    "And what do you think about this?"

    Anna sighed, "I honestly don''t know. It was easier to uncover the details of Mrs. Shui''s ident. But somehow finding out the identity of a little boy became very difficult. We spent a lot of time and effort on this but to no avail. We kepting back to a dead end. And from personal experience, I can say that the little boy isn''t that simple."

    "No," said Raelle. "Little Justin is very simple. You should say whoever his parents are... They are definitely not simple."

    Anna nodded her head, "Yes, Missy is right. The only reason they''d try to cover the tracks is..."

    "They are trying to protect him," said Raelle. "Since his parents aren''t simple, their identities can put him in danger as well. So, they did everything to hide his identity instead. Now, the question is whether his parents are really dead and that''s why he was adopted by Tang Hebe or the parents gave him away to live a simple and happy life away from the dangers that surrounded them?"

    Anna was silent for a while before asking, "Missy, are you interested in that little kid?"

    "Interested," answered Raelle without any hesitation. "He likes dinosaurs. He is good with maths. How can I not be interested in him?"

    Anna wasn''t really surprised by that answer. Indeed, only Raelle would be able to develop interest in someone because of such simple things. Who else would do it like her?

    "Then I should look into it more," said Anna.

    "Forget it," said Raelle. "Go and take some rest. I''ll take it from here."

    "Missy, what are you gonna do?" asked Anna curious.

    "Simple, I''ll just go ask the adopted mother," replied Raelle. "No one should know better about Justin''s identity than the one who willingly adopted him. So, why should I continue to waste time looking here and there?"

    "Oh..." Anna finally understand and even agreed. Indeed, they could just ask Tang Hebe. "But will she tell you anything?"

    Raelle gave her a look.

    Anna smiled awkwardly, "Right, how can anyone not speak the truth when you''re the one asking?" Anna sighed to herself since Raelle didn''t even have to use torture like them to get what she wanted to hear from others. Her words were enough to trap people and make them spill the beans willingly.

    Raelle stood up and said, "Then I should get to it."

    "Right now?" asked Anna.

    "Now is fine to me," replied Raelle. She had nothing else to do, so she''ll just pay Tang Hebe a visit to figure out the things that''s been on her mind.

 Chapter 886: Drive Me Crazy

    Chapter 886: Drive Me CrazyWhen Raelle reached Tang Hebe''s ward, the doctor came out. The doctor politely nodded and Raelle also gave him a nod in return. She entered the ward and looked at Tang Hebe.

    Seeing Raelle, Tang Hebe''s expressions changed. For no other reason but that she was a little scared of Raelle now. She was someone who was always careful with her words but Raelle was theplete opposite of that. A cautious person like her who hid her thoughts deep would be scared of Raelle who was blunt with her thoughts.

    "You''re here," Tang Hebe tried to put on a smile but it looked rather stiff.

    "I won''t eat you," said Raelle. "Don''t look like you''ve seen a monster."

    Tang Hebe pursed her lips andughed awkwardly, "You''re thinking too much. I''m just surprised to see you here."

    "Since I''m here, I have my reasons," was Raelle''s response. "It''s not like we are close enough for us to chit-chat."

    Tang Hebe didn''t say anything regarding that. She slowly got down from the bed and walked towards the sitting area in the ward saying, "Let''s sit down. Since you''re here, you must have something to discuss."

    Raelle followed her lead while looking around, "Where is your son?"

    Tang Hebe''s expression turned ugly, "Can you please stop? What are you up to? I''m telling you, even if I can''t win against you, I''ll fight to the death but won''t let you take my son."

    She really looked like the mother hen protecting her chick desperately.

    Raelle actually marveled at her imagination. She really didn''t understand how people''s imaginations could be so rich. It was very difficult to understand.

    "Are you done?" asked Raelle. "I think you hit your head hard. You need a better doctor. Let me find you one that can get rid of your delusions."

    Tang Hebe pouted, "Do you have to be so snarky?"

    "That was not me being snarky at all," said Raelle. "I''m just stating facts. You should really see a doctor for those delusions. They are unhealthy." Raelle didn''t give her a chance before she started, "I asked a normal question, and you..."

    "How can I not?" asked Tang Hebe. "My son had been running off to see you a lot these days."

    "Are you jealous?"

    "Very!"

    "Good!" was Raelle''s straightforward answer. "I''ll try my best to make sure your jealousy stays alive." Tang Hebe gaped at her as she went on, "After all, they say jealousy makes a rtionship more interesting. So, if you live in constant fear of losing your son, you''d do everything to love him more."

    "You! You! How do you evene up with this?"

    "It''s your own fault," said Raelle. "Your mind is in overdrive. I am just providing your brain with a direction this time around so that it doesn''t work exhaustively and aimlessly."

    "You''re just trying to drive me crazy!"

    Raelle didn''t deny her words as she went on, "Oh, so you do have some working brain cells."

    Tang Hebe felt like she was being yed right now. She was trying to remain calm but somehow Raelle was able to rile up her emotions and now, she really was feeling a little scared of losing her son.

    Not even for a moment did ite to her mind that it was her own son. How was Raelle even gonna steal him? It was all in her own head since she long believed that Raelle was omnipotent so she was capable of everything.

    Raelle was actually observing her closely and she noticed Tang Hebe''s fear. Oh, the poor woman was so scared that she was sweating and shaking a little. Raelle wondered if she did too much just now. But then she shook this conjecture and came to the conclusion that Tang Hebe''s mental strength was too poor. It was very easy to shake her confidence.

    Tsk. Tsk. She thought it must be tiring for Tang Hebe to live with such low-esteem.

    "Why did youe here?" asked Tang Hebe. "If you wanted to see Justin, you could just wait. He goes to see you every day exactly at the same time. And even buys you flowers. He doesn''t even give me flowers."

    "Sour!" said Raelle. "I understand those sour words. I think I''m making progress with my understanding of emotions."

    "Are you even listening?"

    "You''re talking nonsense," said Raelle. "But I assure you, no matter how pointless your words are as long as I''m sitting with you, I''ll give you my attention." She took a pause and added, "Let''s not waste my time. My time is precious."

    "What''s up?"

    "Where did you adopt your son? Or should I ask whom did you adopt your son from?"

    "I adopted him from an orphanage," replied Tang Hebe hurriedly.

    "Liar!" was Raelle''s response. "Do you really think your lies can get to me?"

    Tang Hebe looked at her and gritted her teeth, "Why are you curious about my son? What''s with this sudden interest in him?"

    "My interest in him is my business," said Raelle. "I asked you to question. You should think carefully about it and give me an answer as soon as possible. Now, moving on, when we first met at the resort, you said something about you''ve been meaning to see me. So, I wonder what business you could possibly have with me? And how do you know my mother? I don''t think my mother is a kind person who''d help anyone. So, I wonder why did she bring you to the banquet with her? And why did you have to be at that banquet?"

    Tang Hebe felt her head buzzing from all this questioning. Raelle''s words weren''t slow or fast, she was speaking clearly and at a normal pace but Tang Hebe was feeling like all words were drilling into her mind and messing up her thoughts.

    "Stop!" said Tang Hebe and took a deep breath. "I''ll start answering. Give me some space first to think. Don''t attack me with all the questions all at once."

 Chapter 887: Owe Two Lives

    Chapter 887: Owe Two LivesRaelle gave her time to collect her thoughts and even drink some water. She was very patient since she knew Tang Hebe couldn''t escape. Why would she rush?

    Tang Hebe looked straight at Raelle and asked, "I have a question. I''ll answer all yours once you answer mine."

    "Go ahead," replied Raelle.

    "Why are you interested in my son?"

    Raelle didn''t hesitate and stated, "First, I only wanted to know about him because he was your son. But now... Now, I want to know because he is suddenly engulfed in mystery. I can''t figure out where he came from."

    Tang Hebe asked, "You investigated him?"

    "Yes," Raelle didn''t think she had to hide this from her. Since she did it, she had what it took to ept her actions as well. "But I found nothing about his birth. As if he suddenly popped into this world from the moment you adopted him. Before that, there was nothing."

    "I don''t what you''re looking for but I don''t think you''d find all the answers from me," said Tang Hebe. "Even I have no answers to some questions rted to him."

    Raelle tapped her finger on her knee and asked, "You don''t know who his parents are?"

    Tang Hebe smiled. She wasn''t surprised that Raelle could tell that, "I never met his father. Never even heard his name. I know nothing about him. But I did meet his mother. However, I don''t know much about her as well."

    She seemed to have fallen into deep thought as she continued, "His mother told me her name was Jennie. We met in Country J when she was pregnant. That was our first meeting and considering how we both came from the same country, we started talking and had a good time. I stayed there for 3 months and during those three months, we really grew to like each other a lot. She was a very interesting person and seemed to know about everything. But even if I seemed like a country bumpkin who didn''t know much, she was very patient and gentle."

    Tang Hebe''s expression was clouded as she went on, "We parted way three monthster but I gave her my email to contact me. Then, we met after she gave birth to Justin. He was such a small baby when I held him and he really hooked my heart. Unfortunately, we didn''t stay together for long since she had to leave. After that, she didn''t contact me. Until that one day when I received her email with only a flight ticket and an address. By the time, I got to that address, she was already dying and I couldn''t do much for her. It was also on that day, I learned her real name was Chi Xirui. She asked me to take my son away and give him a good life."

    "You adopted the child of a person you met only three times?" asked Raelle.

    "Sometimes, you instantly feel a connection with a stranger," said Tang Hebe. "She was that person to me. I met her right after my divorce. I needed someone there and she was. Even if she was just a stranger and had no obligation to be there for me, she was there for me."

    "Anything else, I should know about?"

    "Yes, Chi Xirui was your mother''s student," answered Tang Hebe. "She told me that if I run into trouble, I should look for her teacher, Song Xin''ai. But it wasn''t that easy to find Song Xin''ai and get an appointment. And in the end, I did have the need to look for her. I was looking for a doctor for Justin but couldn''t get an appointment. So, I approached Song Xin''ai for help and that''s why she took me to that banquet."

    "What''s wrong with Justin?" asked Raelle. "Don''t tell me just because he is different, you think he is sick?"

    Tang Hebe shook her head, "That''s not just it. He keeps getting nightmares and gets easily scared. He hides behind me all the time and doesn''t like approaching strangers. Correction, you''re the exception here. He somehow feelsfortable around you and I''m not able to understand that. He seemed just like any other kid around you."

    "Oh, so that''s where your feares from," said Raelle in understanding. "It''s because he is able to look normal around me, you think you have been doing something wrong and don''t deserve to be a mother. You''re indeed living a very tiring life, Tang Hebe."

    Tang Hebe didn''t retort because she had nothing to say actually. There was no point in saying anything. It wasn''t easy to hide when you sit in front of Raelle Xiang and she had already epted this fact.

    "You still have something else to tell me," said Raelle. "Something is missing."

    Tang Hebe sighed as she looked at her, "I was indeed gonna look for you when I came to the country."

    "Why?"

    "Because of Justine," answered Tang Hebe. "No, I should say because of Chi Xirui. She asked me to find you."

    "She did?" asked Raelle as she straightened up. Something finally hooked her interest and she looked into Tang Hebe''s eyes. "But I don''t know any Chi Xirui." She processed through her memory but couldn''t collect any information about this person. "There is no such person in my memory. I haven''t even heard this name passing before. So, why would this person look for me?"

    "She said you saved her life and her son''s life," said Tang Hebe. "She said she owes you two lives. And since she couldn''t live long enough to pay back the favor, I had to do something about it."

    Raelle tilted her head and thought again hard. Did she save someone? When did that happen? And how? The only incidents she could think of were rted to her own kidnappings and although during those incidents, her family did save other kids, she didn''t think Chi Xirui was part of that group. After all, Chi Xirui specifically said, Raelle saved her and her son''s life. And that meant, it happened within the past five years.

 Chapter 888: Possibilities

    Chapter 888: PossibilitiesRaelle was momentarily lost. She looked at Tang Hebe and said, "I don''t have any memory of saving someone named Chi Xirui."

    "Oh, it''s possible you didn''t know her name but just saved a nameless person in passing." She took a pause and added, "Or maybe you just don''t remember it right now since it''s been five years or so."

    "Ms. Tang, you''re the only one with memory gaps here, my memory is impable," was Raelle''s reply. "So, I can assure you I''m not forgetting anything." Her eyes wandered around the ward aimlessly as she continued, "Also, what kind of a person do you think I am? Do I look like a kindhearted angel who does good deeds and forgets about them? I have always walked in a straight line in my life. I don''t needlessly be nosy in other people''s lives. So, to say that I saved someone just because I was feeling like it is certainly wrong. I don''t do that kind of thing."

    Tang Hebe chewed the inside of her bottom lip as she contemted before firmly saying, "But she did tell me, you saved her and Justin."

    "If I saved her, where is she? Didn''t she die in the end?"

    Tang Hebe stared at Raelle''s nk expression that made her look like she had no sympathy for human life. She thought those words sounded cold but for some reason, she didn''t think Raelle was being rude or offensive. It was like she was just stating another fact in her usual tone.

    Thinking about something, she decided to share her thoughts, "Actually, I''m not sure about it but I''ll share it with you since you''re the smarter one here."

    "I already had no expectation for your intelligence," said Raelle.

    "You don''t have to strike so hard at my heart," was Tang Hebe response before she took a deep breath. "When we first met, I was lost in my own problems and didn''t pay attention at first. Butter, I did notice small details. She was unusually vignt at all times. She''d easily get scared by the loud noise. For instance, once we were in a cafe and someone dropped a ss. She stood up and immediately went into a fighting posture. Like she was ready to beat someone. I evenughed at her reaction and she alsoughed it off. But thinking back, I feel like she was on a run. She didn''t stay in one ce for a long time."

    "She was like a refuge, running for her life?" asked Raelle.

    "I don''t know," replied Tang Hebe.

    "Or maybe a criminal on the run," added Raelle.

    "No!" Tang Hebe strongly denied that. "She was such a good and kind person. She definitely wasn''t a criminal."

    Raelle looked at her with her nk gaze but Tanng Hebe felt like her eyes were actually calling her an ''idiot''. She felt so embarrassed.

    "Do you think criminals run around with the tag on their head that they are criminals?" asked Raelle. "Most serial killers or psychopath killers are people just like you and me. No, they might seem even more normal than we do. Humans are creature of deception. How can you even fall for the mask someone put on? Are you that gullible? No wonder I can''t seem to like you. Your level of IQ is definitely not pleasing."

    Tang Hebe gaped at her in disbelief. Did she have to speak so ruthlessly? And why did she feel like she was being despised right now? Couldn''t she just care about someone''s feelings before speaking? It hurts!

    "If I cared about others''s feelings, I won''t be Raelle Xiang," said Raelle and Tang Hebe realized she had spoken her thoughts out loud. "And do I look like I care that you''re hurt?"

    "I don''t care. I refuse to believe that Chi Xirui was a criminal!" Tang Hebe decided to put her feet down! She had to stand up for her belief. She couldn''t go on like this and let Raelle lead her by the nose!

    "It''s just a possibility," said Raelle. "And there are plenty of other possibilities as well. For instance, she got herself involved with people she shouldn''t have crossed. She had something that someone wanted at any cost. The father of her child was from the underworld. She had personal enemies etc etc etc. There are plenty of other possibilities here as well. And until we find the real answer, all these possibilities have the possibility of being the possible answer!"

    Tang Hebe was left blinking in a daze. Even she felt like what she said was right. Damn it! She was again being led by the nose and she couldn''t do anything about that! Argh! How hateful!

    "What are you gonna do about this?" asked Tang Hebe curiously.

    "Of course, I''m gonna look for the right answer," replied Raelle. "Since you don''t have the answers I want. I''ll just look for someone who has the answers. It doesn''t matter to me how long it takes. I had always been a patient person. Very patient."

    Raelle didn''t mind putting more effort into this matter now that it got more interested. At first, it was just knowing how Tang Hebe adopted a son. Now, it was more about Chi Xirui who imed that Raelle saved her and her son. And since Raelle had no recollection of that, she had to find it out to figure out everything. She trusted her memory very much so she wasn''t willing to let anyone question it.

    "You didn''t find anything before," reminded Tang Hebe.

    "Because I wasn''t trying hard enough," replied Raelle. "Besides, now I have a new lead to look for. Before, I was looking for Justin. Now, the matter involved his mother, Chi Xirui. I think it''ll be easier to find her, no?"

    "Then I wish you best of luck," said Tang Hebe.

    "I don''t need your best wishes."

    "I know," replied Tang Hebe. "But that doesn''t stop me from offering my best wishes." She shrugged nonchntly.

 Chapter 889: Repay The Favor

    Chapter 889: Repay The FavorRaelle stood up to leave but stopped suddenly. Tang Hebe''s breath of relief hitched when she stopped and turned back. "What? What now?"

    "You said I saved Chi Xirui and Justin''s life," stated Raelle and Tang Hebe had an intuition that this was not going in the right direction. "And since she owed me two lives, the favor is big. And now, it has fallen on you. So, Ms. Tang, how are you gonna repay this favor?"

    "I..." Tang Hebe didn''t continue before she understood very well that she had nothing to offer to someone like Raelle who was supposedly born with everything already at her disposal. What could she really offer?

    "What can you do to repay this favor? How far are you willing to go?"

    "I... I''ll leave the country," said Tang Hebe. "I''ll disappear from Shui Xian''s life."

    "How is that any of my concern?" asked Raelle.

    "Shouldn''t you care a little bit that I''m his ex-wife?"

    "Ex," repeated Raelle. "Keep note that you''re ''ex'' meaning, you''re the past. Why would anyone care about the past?"

    Tang Hebe wanted to scratch her head but her finger touched the bandage on her head and she stopped before sighing, "You shouldn''t be so careless about it. You said it yourself that jealousy adds fun to a rtionship."

    "That doesn''t apply to me," said Raelle. "Unlike you, I trust what''s mine."

    "You don''t stop jabbing me," gritted out Tang Hebe.

    "Who asked you to hurt my husband?" asked Raelle.

    Tang Hebe was baffled when she heard that. So, all those harsh words were directed at her only because she had hurt Shui Xian in the past? Tang Hebe couldn''t believe what she was hearing right now. It certainly opened the door of a new world to her.

    She had never seen a wife getting even with the ex-wife of her husband for her husband''s sake. This has to be the first in the history.

    "How about this?" started Raelle. "You give your son to me?"

    Tang Hebe''s body stiffened and she widened her eyes at Raelle. She stood up and shook her head, "No way! You can''t do this to me. Even if you want to hurt me for what I did, you can''t take away my reason to live. Justin is my whole world!"

    "If I''m not wrong, you''re considered Shui Xian''s world as well," stated Raelle. "He gave up the rest of the world for you only for you to trample all over his love and walk away ruthlessly. You never even looked back to see if he was living or only breathing."

    "It hurt me too!" Tang Hebe eximed. "I loved him so much as well. It hurt me to walk away as well. But at that time, I couldn''t think of anything else. I couldn''t face him. So, I had to leave. I also lived aimlessly for so long until Justin came into my life and gave me a purpose." Her tears suddenly fell as she added, "Please, don''t take him from me! I can give you anything but him. I''m sorry for your loss. But don''t snatch my child from me. You lost a child yourself, you must know how it feels."

    Raelle didn''t reply to that and only stared at her attentively.

    "You''re weak," said Raelle. "I might be called wicked but I never had a n to take your son from you. Deep down, you already know that. But seeing you so scared repeatedly... Your son really became your weakness. So, Ms. Tang, imagine if his fatheres and asks for his child, what are you gonna do? I won''t snatch your son, I have no right to. But his biological father might have that right."

    "No, he abandoned them, he has no right," said Tang Hebe.

    "Did Chi Xirui ever tell you that the father of the child abandoned the mother and child?"

    Tang Hebe went silent when she heard that.

    "Don''t just assume things on your own. There is a huge possibility that the father of the child didn''t even know about the existence of his child."

    Tang Hebe''s body shook as if the light breeze was gonna topple it any moment now.

    "You''re purposely scaring me?" she asked.

    Raelle shook her head, "I''m warning you and preparing you for the future. If you continued to walk forward with this weak mental ability of yours, you won''t be able to protect what is yours. If you say Justin is your son, act like he really is your son. Don''t let anyone question who he is to you. As a mother, learn to protect your son better."

    Although everything she said made Tang Hebe feel like she was hateful, she knew she was right. How could anyone say Raelle was wrong? She hadn''t met anyone who could im that. It was indeed difficult to win against Raelle Xiang. And she was hopeless for sure.

    But Tang Hebe took this time to contemte over everything she just said and realized her own shorings. She was still easily scared by everything. She had to grow even stronger. All her efforts weren''t enough just yet.

    "Tang Hebe!"

    "Hm?"

    "Say, you adopted Justin about three years ago," started Raelle. "Then around the same time, you learned that the favor Chi Xirui owed me. So, what took you so long toe and find me?"

    Tang Hebe stayed silent and didn''t respond.

    "Are you that scared of me?"

    Tang Hebe red at her, "I just didn''t want to face you. No, I wasn''t ready to face you back then."

    "So, it took you years to prepare yourself to face me?" asked Raelle. "You must have had a hard time. By the way, when we first met, my husband and I hadn''t disclosed the matter of our marriage. But you already knew we''re married, why? Don''t tell me, you left spies around your ex-husband."

    "I''m not that desperate," said Tang Hebe. "My cousin registered her marriage the same day as yours. So, she sent me some sneak shots she clicked when you''re registering your marriage."

 Chapter 890: Mona Lisa

    Chapter 890: Mona Lisa"That''s one hell of a coincidence," said Raelle.

    Tang Hebe could only hum softly in response. What else could she say? She definitely didn''t have anyone spying on her ex-husband. It was really just a coincidence when her cousin sent her a picture of Raelle and Shui Xian at the Civil Affairs Beaurue. Of course, it was shocking news to her but at the same time, somewhere she subconsciously thought it was meant to happen.

    Over the years, she came to ept the fact that her addition to Shui Xian''s life was a mistake. She couldn''t give him anything else apart from sorrow and despair. His partner was meant to be Raelle. She only dyed them from bing one. And that''s why she epted it easily when she learned that Shui Xian married Raelle.

    The silence around her made Tang Hebe snap back to reality and she frowned when she noticed that Raelle was still standing right there. She didn''t say anything, she didn''t move, she practically did nothing except for looking at her face.

    "You aren''t leaving?" asked Tang Hebe finally when she couldn''t take it anymore.

    "Why so eager to kick me out?" asked Raelle.

    "I''m not eager," refuted Tang Hebe.

    "Your face says otherwise," was Raelle''s response which made Tang Hebe''s face blush a little. After all, she indeed was looking forward to Raelle leaving right now. Since the moment she entered, she hadn''t let Tang Hebe breathe in peace.

    She was like sitting on pins and needles around Raelle. Her attack level was too high for someone like Tang Hebe. As Raelle said, her mental ability was very weak. She wasn''t an opponent of Raelle who threw around bitter pills at every turn.

    "Okay, thest question," started Raelle and Tang Hebe almost lost her mind. These questions were really not helping her rx at all!

    "What? What is it now? Why do you even have so many questions?"

    "I was born with a lot of questions," was Raelle''s answer to her. Tang Hebe pursed her lips while Raelle continued without caring about Tang Hebe''s mood, "You decided to leave Shui Xian because you learned the truth behind his mother''s death and what part your family yed in it. Am I right? Or am I right?"

    Tang Hebe was startled and momentarily forgot to control her expressions. "How do you know that? No, did you tell Shui Xian? You can''t do that. You can''t tell him about that."

    Raelle only had one thought in her mind right now, ''Oh, this fish was easy to hook.''

    She had been wondering what prompted Tang Hebe to divorce Shui Xian out of nowhere but now it was clear. Tang Hebe indeed learned that her family killed Shui Xian''s mother and she wanted to run from that truth. She didn''t know how to face him after everything so she chose the easiest way out. Run!

    Tsk. Humans had always been good at running. When things don''t go their way, their first thought isn''t how to solve the problem, it''s always how to run from that problem.

    "I have no words for you," said Raelle. "How did you learn about it though?"

    Tang Hebeposed herself and told her, "I overheard my mother''s conversation with my aunt. That''s how I knew."

    "Oh, so after years, you so conveniently happened to overhear everything? If I''m not wrong, you also broke off your rtionship with your family, no?"

    "In the fourth year of our marriage, my family tried to ease the differences between us. Seeing how sincere they were, I softened up. It was during that time, my friends called me out and I saw my mother in the restaurant. I wanted to say hello but ended up hearing their conversation."

    Raelle was silent again for a long while before saying, "I wonder whether I should say your mother is a good schemer or that you''re really an idiot. Personally, I''m inclined to believe thetter."

    "Hey! You can''t call me an idiot!"

    "If I don''t call an idiot, an idiot. What else should I call you? Mona Lisa?"

    Raelle really didn''t think anyone would fall for such petty tricks but Tang Hebe did. Calling her naive wasn''t even enough at this point.

    "People led you by your nose and you followed through," said Raelle. "You''re not just credulous. You''re simply out of your mind."

    "Don''t you think you''d been insulting me a lot?"

    "No, I''m just stating facts," said Raelle. "For the first time in my life, I don''t want to speak the truth to someone. But I''m still me. I believe the truth will hurt you even more."

    "What do you mean?"

    "My mother-inw died in an ident," told Raelle. "Even before your family''s clutches could reach her, the angel of death got to her. So, even though your family did n to murder her, they weren''t the reason she died." She observed Tang Hebe''s pale face as she went on, "Ms. Tang, you''d been yed badly by your own family. They did everything to destroy your rtionship but in the end, you destroyed that rtionship with your own hands." She stretched her index finger and tapped Tang Hebe''s shoulder saying, "Thank you for running away! If you hadn''t left, how would I find my husband? So, I should really thank you. How about I take you out for a meal after your discharge? Let''s do that."

    Tang Hebe didn''t even react. Because currently, she was really going through a veryplicated phase. She wasn''t even able to understand her own emotions. It felt like she was being stabbed repeatedly and someone was reminding her how much of a fool she was. But then again, that was Raelle''s intention, no?

    Her family yed her for a fool for so long and she actually fell for it? She was always guarded against them when they came at her strongly but when they started the sweet attack by using her familial feelings for them, she was rendered defenseless.

 Chapter 891: Youre Rich

    Chapter 891: You''re RichTang Hebe fell back on the couch and was left staring at the white walls of the ward with her mind nk. Seeing her condition, Raelle said goodbye and left her hospital ward.

    She had just stepped out of her ward when she ran into little Justin who came to see his mother with the nanny. As he noticed Raelleing out of his mother''s ward, he ran up to her with his short legs and looked up at her with his clear eyes.

    "Hi, little one!" Raelle waved at him from above.

    He also lifted his hand to wave back as he replied, "Hi, the big one!"

    The nanny found their greeting very weird but she didn''t say anything. After all, she knew how difficult it was for little Justin to be so actively wanting to interact with anyone. As for how they interacted, it didn''t really matter to her.

    "Are you here to see your mom?" asked Raelle and little Justin nodded his head. "But your mom needs some time alone to herself right now."

    Little Justin had a look of understanding and he nodded. He tugged at her shirt and said, "Ice cream cake!"

    "Did you solve the problem I gave you?"

    He proudly replied, "Yes!"

    Raelle understood and said, "Then follow me." She looked at the nanny and said, "You can tell Ms. Tang that her son is with me. I''ll bring him back safely."

    The nanny had nothing to say since Tang Hebe had already said it was okay to let Justin follow this woman. So, she stepped aside.

    Raelle had asked Justin to solve a math problem and even said that she''d buy him whatever he wanted if he solved it. It took him three days but he solved it in the end. And he wanted to eat ice cream cake. Since she said it, she''d follow through as well.

    "You know I can''t leave the hospital," started Raelle. "So, we''ll have to eat the ice cream cake inside the hospital. Is that okay with you?"

    "Okay," he replied simply while his clear eyes continued to follow her around. He suddenly pouted and looked down.

    "What''s wrong?"

    "No flowers," he said.

    It meant he forgot to bring flowers for her today. Raelle replied, "It''s okay. We''ll make do without the flowers."

    They were walking side by side when Raelle heard someone calling, "Hey, little sister!" Of course, she didn''t stop and continued to walk until the person changed his words, "Raelle!"

    Raelle stopped and turned. She came face to face with Xiang Weimin, "Hello, Lieutenant Colonel Xiang!"

    Xiang Weimin actually was irked by how she chose to ignore it when he called her sister but turned to face him when he called her name. She was very clear about what rtionship she was willing to keep with him. But it was his own sister, he''d just follow her lead. Since they were the ones at fault from the beginning and had no right to make demands.

    Since she was willing to offer an inch, they had to grab that inch and shouldn''t covet the mile ahead.

    Raelle also looked at Xiang Wai who ran up to catch up with her brother, "Hi, Major!"

    Xiang Wai was taken aback to see Raelle. Her surprise and happiness were too obvious. Of course, Xiang Wai''s purpose was to run into Raelle coincidentally but she didn''t think she really would. It was a surprise. A pleasant one.

    "Oh, hi! We just came for Ge''s checkup," said Xiang Wai. "What a coincidence to run into you!"

    Raelle didn''t react to that but Xiang Weimin couldn''t take it and chimed in, "We came to see you."

    Xiang Wai didn''t think her brother would give them away just like that. Did it even make sense? She thought they were partners here!

    "Major, I''d prefer if you''re as honest as Lieutenant is," said Raelle. "After all, you don''t even know how to cover up your lie. We are standing on the VIP floor. He has to visit the 9th floor if he wants to get his routine checkup. So, you''re coincidentally running into me, is a very far-fetched excuse."

    And that''s why Xiang Weimin decided to speak the truth. He wasn''t a fool and he knew neither was his little sister. Xiang Wai could be a little fool but Raelle wasn''t. She took in everything and definitely wasn''t someone who''d fall for such excuses.

    Xiang Wai scratched her head, "Ge, why didn''t you remind me?"

    "You could think yourself," said Xiang Weimin. "How are you, Raelle?"

    "I don''t like that question," said Raelle. "I''m tired of repeating, ''I''m fine''. Don''t ask me that question again."

    "Okay," said Xiang Weimin.

    She took a moment before asking, "What about you? Is your recovery going well?"

    Xiang Weimin smiled at her and nodded, "It''s alright. There is nothing to worry about at all."

    "That''s good," said Raelle. "Opa will have fewer worries now."

    Xiang Weimin didn''t care about why she asked about his health. He was just happy that she did. Indirectly, that meant she cared a little.

    "What are you doing out here?" asked Xiang Wai. She looked at the little kid who was hiding behind Raelle''s leg, "And whose kid is this?"

    "Definitely not mine," was Raelle''s answer.

    Xiang Wai pressed her lips together. "I know. I know it''s not yours. I''m just asking."

    "He''s just a little buddy of mine," said Raelle. "And we''re going for some ice cream cake."

    "How about we join you?" suggested Xiang Wai.

    "How about a no?"

    Xiang Wai shook her head, "No, no, Raelle. You can''t do that. Don''t be stingy. You''re rich. Buy us some desserts as well."

    "You have money as well," said Raelle.

    "Not as much as you." Xiang Wai decided to be a little shameless today. "So? Be generous and soothe my heart with some sweets."

    "I think the one capable of soothing your heart is at the military base right now."

 Chapter 892: Scary

    Chapter 892: ScaryXiang Wai almost choked on her saliva when she heard Raelle''sment and coughed lightly. She did not think Raelle would know about her affairs, even her brother didn''t know and that''s why he was giving her that inquisitive look right now. What was she supposed to do in this situation?

    She didn''t tell anyone about what was going on between her and Zhai Yanjun. Not even her brother. When she came back from the blind date with a huge grin stered on her face, everyone assumed things went well and when someone even asked, ''How was the blind date?'' she only replied with, ''It was good.''

    So, everyone was still thinking that she was satisfied with her blind date. But Xiang Wai didn''t have to think deeply to figure out that Hyson was behind it. How could he not tell Raelle? He was the one who arranged the blind date, so he must be clear about the result of the blind date as well. And he won''t keep a secret from Raelle.

    Noticing how her brother was looking at him, she smiled awkwardly, "What''s up, Ge?"

    Xiang Weimin didn''t say anything and chose not to interrogate her. She was old enough to take care of her own matters. He didn''t have to care about her matters. Besides, if she wanted to, she''d share everything with him.

    "How about I treat you to desserts?" offered Xiang Weimin as his eyes were set on Raelle. Clearly, that offer was for her.

    Raelle thought about it before nodding, "Okay."

    "Ge, she is the richest one between us," Xiang Wai reminded him.

    "And she is the youngest between us as well," said Xiang Weimin.

    Xiang Wai pursed her lips before she said, "No, he is the youngest one here." She was pointing at little Justin as she spoke.

    Xiang Weimin pinched her arm, "Stop it."

    "Oh..."

    The three siblings were looking for a ce to sit down when Raelle took them around. Standing in front of the office of the Deputy Director of the hospital, Xiang Wai, "Why are we here?"

    "The view is good from here," was Raelle''s unexpected answer. She knocked on the door and pushed it open.

    The person sitting behind the desk buried in papers before her looked up and when her eyes met Raelle''s, the serious expression flew away and she called out happily, "Oh, cousin! What brought you here?"

    "The good view," said Raelle again.

    Gou Jinjin wasn''t even surprised. She already heard it from Raelle that the view from her office was beautiful. And since Raelle liked beautiful things, she wasn''t surprised that Raelle was here for the view. She actually felt it was the right decision to choose this office for herself. She could use it to lure her cousin in here.

    "Thene inside," said Gou Jinjin.

    "I''m not alone," added Raelle.

    "Just bring whoever you want," said Gou Jinjin. She also stood up when the others followed Raelle in. Looking at little Justin, Gou Jinjin squatted down to his level and asked, "Yo, little buddy! You didn''t pluck any more flowers, did you?"

    "No," Justin replied in an unusually soft voice.

    "Don''t scare him," said Raelle.

    "Am I scary?" asked Gou Jinjin. And Raelle and Justin actually nodded at the same time making Gou Jinjin not understand how to even react to this sudden attack.

    Gou Jinjin patted her chest and reminded herself that it wasn''t even the first time. She should be used to it. But it still was not understandable to her. From a young age, people said she was the scary one while her twin sister was the cuter one. Even though they were identical twins who literally looked like each other''s reflections.

    She sighed to herself and looked up to notice two new faces. She narrowed her eyes at them before clicking her fingers together, "It''s Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai." She extended her hand towards them, "I''ve heard so much about you both. It''s very nice to meet you."

    Both Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai were confused from the moment she called Raelle ''cousin''. And now, she even knew them. They did not think their Xiang family had any rtives. So, they were really confused right now.

    "That''s Gou Jinjin," introduced Raelle. "She is Yanyan''s niece. Long story short, she is our cousin."

    Gou Jinjin''s smile widened as she nodded in agreement, "That''s right."

    Raelle and Justin went to the sitting area in the big office. It was in the far right corner of the office and was separated by a bookshelf. It could be seen that it was Gou Jinjin''s resting area and herfort ce where she spent most of her time.

    Seeing the nket on the carpet, Gou Jinjin rushed up to pick it up and folded it before throwing it into the cab. She moved at the speed of light but everyone could see what she did.

    "You don''t go home?" asked Raelle.

    Gou Jinjin rubbed her nose, "Not all that much."

    "Any particr reason?"

    "I told you my sister is getting married," said Gou Jinjin.

    "And that''s why you''re under everyone''s eyes because you''re single," added Raelle.

    "Smart. Cousin, how did you develop that brain? I love how smart you are," said Gou Jinjin. "I don''t even have to say much for you to understand. This talent of yours is impable." Scratching her neck, she went on, "Anyway, you can use this space. I''m going out. Feel free here and make yourself at home."

    "We are gonna eat some desserts here," told Raelle. "You don''t mind us eating here, do you?"

    "What are you talking about?" Gou Jinjin waved off carelessly. "I said, just be at home. No need to even ask. The whole hospital is yours." She looked at Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin, "It''s nice to meet you both. I''d have loved to catch up with you two but I have to deal with a patient''s family. So, let''s get to know each other next time."

 Chapter 893: Siblings Bonding

    Chapter 893: Siblings BondingRaelle actually had a reason toe here. First, it was too hot outside. Second, she couldn''t take Justin out of the hospital. Third, the view from Gou Jinjin''s office was indeed the best. You could overlook the whole garden. Lush green grass, winding paths lined with beautiful flowers, tall trees. Everything looked exceptionally serene from here.

    And that''s why from the moment he came here, Justin had his face stuck against the ss wall as he looked out at the garden.

    There was another reason that Raelle didn''t mention. She walked up to Gou Jinjin''s bookshelf and looked at the books. You see, this cousin of hers had very interesting books that Raelle hadn''t read before. She noticed them thest time she was here and even borrowed a couple of books to read. But she was already done with those.

    Even though Gou Jinjin was a doctor, her office was filled with all kinds of books. Not just books on anatomy but also on thew. Surprisingly, she had a lot of books onw. And even on astronomy. Raelle picked up one on astronomy and sat down to read.

    "Raelle, that... Deputy Director is a very talkative person,"mented Xiang Wai.

    "I think she has the potential of bing your best of friends," Raelle shared her opinion without any hesitation.

    Xiang Wai frowned, "Why do you think so?"

    "Because you both have somemon interests," said Raelle.

    Xiang Wai was silent for a moment before she said, "I don''t really have a good experience with rtives called cousins. I better keep my distance."

    "Not every person is made from the same mold," was Raelle''s response. "How long can you survive alone?"

    "I thought a person like you would like being alone," said Xiang Wai.

    "Wrong," said Raelle. "I have never been alone in my life. Someone had always been around me reminding me how human rtions are important. I find socializing troublesome but I do my best where I have to. Because at the end of the day, the world works on rtions. You can never survive alone. A lone wolf sounds mysterious and mighty but to a pack of wolves, it''s considered a rogue."

    "These strange analogies, I don''t get them," said Xiang Wai. "By the way, don''t talk about my and Yanjun''s rtionship in front of Ge."

    "You want to have another secret rtionship?" asked Raelle.

    "No," said Xiang Wai. "I just... We are still in the initial phase of getting to know each other all over again. I don''t want to jump to a conclusion. And I don''t want anyone to assume anything either. First, I want our rtionship to get on the right track before I''ll tell everyone about it."

    "I don''t agree with your approach but okay," agreed Raelle. "It''s your privacy. I won''t say anything if you won''t want me to."

    "Thank you!"

    "You''re wee," replied Raelle.

    Xiang Weimin had gone to buy the desserts for everyone and just came back. He took out everyone''s portion and set it on the coffee table. He even bought drinks for everyone.

    As he ced a slice of cheesecake and a slice of pumpkin spice cake in front of Xiang Wai, she almost squealed. But holding herself back, she hugged her brother, "Ge, you''re the best! You treat me the best. You love me the best! I love you so much!"

    Xiang Weimin helplessly allowed her to tter him and said, "It''s just some desserts. Do you have to go that far?"

    "Justin,e here and try this," called out Raelle. "I think this has Oreos. Take a bite." Justin took a bite and smiled. "Is it delicious?" He nodded. "Good. Eat up then."

    Xiang Weimin looked at how attentive she was toward little Justin and found their interaction very interesting. For no other reason than he actually didn''t expect Raelle to be so patient around kids. But it seemed, he was assumed wrong on his own. She was clearly very patient and also good with kids.

    He bit the inside of his lips when he realized that she lost her own child just recently. How good she would have been to her own kid when she was already this good to someone else''s child? He shook of these depressing thoughts and put a tiramisu before Raelle.

    "I didn''t know which one you like. But they say, you have no preferences so I just took this," he told her.

    "It''s fine by me," said Raelle. As usual, she still had no opinions about which vor she liked.

    "You should take it easy with work," spoke Xiang Weimin. "I saw the blueprints you sent. You''re still in the hospital. I don''t think there is any hurry."

    Raelle looked up at him, "We have a deadline. I don''t want to take longer than that. When I can finish the work within the deadline why use my health as an excuse to use government resources for longer than necessary? Besides, sooner it is done, it''s better."

    "Why? You''re already tired of working with me?" he inquired with a heavy tone.

    "This has nothing to do with you," said Raelle. "I don''t involve my personal life in professional. Besides, even if we''re done with work together, you''re still at home. It''s not like I can run."

    Xiang Weimin smiled to himself as he also agreed with that. Indeed, she couldn''t run from home. And they''d be seeing each other at home. Maybe he should also find a chance to join the Base closer to home. He''d be able toe back home everyday. With his position he didn''t have to live in dormitory like Zhai Yanjun at all. So, he could be close to his sister.

    He suddenly thought of something and took the talisman from his picket and ced it before Raelle, "Fai asked me to deliver this to you. I was supposed to bring it days ago but my doctor postponed our appointment. So, I could only bring it here today."

 Chapter 894: Haste Makes Waste

    Chapter 894: Haste Makes WasteRaelle looked at the talisman and picked it up. Holding it in her hands, she was actually reading the talisman carefully as if trying to solve some puzzle that was hidden in it. But in the end, she really couldn''t understand it all.

    "So, this is a peace talisman," said Raelle. "I don''t understand it." Even though she said that she still folded the talisman and put it in the pocket of her hospital clothes.

    From her words, they could already understand that she knew she was supposed to receive this talisman and she obviously knew who gave it to her as well.

    "Thank you for delivering this," said Raelle to Xiang Weimin.

    As they were eating, Raelle noticed that Justin had been looking at them very attentively. No, it was right to say that he first looked at Raelle and then would look at Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin as if trying to figure out something.

    Raelle turned to him, "What mystery are you trying to solve, little man?"

    "Look like you," he replied in his milky voice.

    Raelle looked at her siblings before asking, "You mean they look like me? Are you sure?"

    He nodded his small head, "Positive!"

    "How?"

    "Same eyes," he replied as he pointed at Xiang Weimin. And when he pointed at Xiang Wai, he said, "Same ears."

    Raelle could understand that Xiang Weimin looked like her, even Hyson said that their eyes were the same. But she didn''t think she shared a physical simrity with Xiang Wai. So, she paused when she heard they had the same ears. Her eyes subconsciously moved to Xiang Wai''s ears and then she looked at Justin.

    "We share the same blood," she told him. "That''s why we have these small simrities."

    Justin''s small mouth opened in the shape of an ''O''.

    "Raelle, who is he?" asked Xiang Wai again. "Little one, if you say we have these simrities then you also have that simrity with us. Your eyes are also just like my Ge and Raelle."

    Justin blinked his eyes at Xiang Wai.

    Xiang Wai lowered her voice and asked, "Raelle, is he..."

    "Not mine," repeated Raelle. "Why don''t you think he is your Ge''s?"

    Xiang Wai looked at Xiang Weimin and narrowed her eyes at him, "Ge, you''re suspicious."

    "What? Where is thating from?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    Xiang Wai shrugged, "I don''t like this peace. So, just want to cause some trouble. Can''t find anything else, so I thought maybe I should stir up something from nothing."

    "That is so like you," said Xiang Weimin. "But don''t talk such nonsense before the kid. What if his parents heard it?"

    "Okay, okay," agreed Xiang Wai.

    Meanwhile, Raelle had gone silent from the moment Xiang Wai brought up this topic. She knew that strangers have simrities as well but the problem was that, Justin''s background was already shrouded in mystery. Nothing was known about his father and his mother...

    Recalling something, she asked, "Do you both have a way to contact your... I mean, our mother?"

    Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin were horrified when they heard that questioning from Raelle. Never in their wildest dreams, had they thought she''d one day ask for a way to contact their mother. This really caught them off guard.

    "What? What are you both looking at? Did I ask a difficult question? You can''t contact your own mother?"

    "Raelle, you want to contact mom?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "Yes," answered Raelle honestly.

    "Really?" asked Xiang Wai. "Why?"

    "Why?" repeated Raelle. "I believe she is my mother as well. Can''t I contact her?"

    "That''s not what I meant," said Xiang Wai weakly. "I can give you her phone number. As for whether you''ll be able to reach her or not is hard to say. When she is at theb, she ispletely cut off from the world."

    "You just need to give me her contact details," said Raelle. "I''ll see the rest."

    "Okay," agreed Xiang Wai. She immediately sent her contact details to Raelle''s number.

    Xiang Weimin looked at Raelle and asked, "Why are you looking for her? You did see her at the start of the week, no?"

    "I have something to ask her about," replied Raelle. "Don''t worry, I won''t hurt her."

    Xiang Weimin smiled, "I think you''ve done enough when you guys met thest time."

    "Are you sure? I was being very nice though," said Raelle.

    Xiang Weimin hummed, "Indeed. That''s what she said as well. You''re being very nice. After all, you''re a very nice person." He took a brief pause and asked, "If it''s urgent, you can tell me. I''ll help you."

    "There is no need," replied Raelle. "I can wait. There is no hurry. Haste makes waste. I know the logic. So, I''ll take it slow."

    Of course, these two didn''t know the purpose but they were the reason she thought of contacting their mother. She heard from Tang Hebe that Chi Xirui was Song Xin''ai''s student. So, she had to get to reach out to her mother if she wanted to know more about Chi Xirui, the woman who imed she owed two lives to Raelle.

    For some reason, Raelle''s eyes moved from Xiang Weimin to Justin casually and something in her mind was trying to click but she didn''t delve into it. But she didn''t ignore itpletely as well.

    "Lieutenant," called Raelle. "Do you know anyone named Chi Xirui?"

    Xiang Weimin frowned and shook his head, "Doesn''t ring a bell. Why? Do I have something to do with that person?"

    "Forget it. Since you don''t know there is no need to think about it more," said Raelle. But Xiang Weiminn nodded his head and Raelle thought that it''d be easier if she had Chi Xirui''s photo. That just reminded her, that it''d really be better if she had a photo. After all, just because she didn''t know the name didn''t mean she didn''t see the person even in passing, right?

    People can change names easily but not faces.

 Chapter 895: Small & Insignificant

    Chapter 895: Small & Insignificant"What are you reading?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "How to be a human," answered Raelle.

    "But the book you''re holding is on astronomy," said Xiang Wai with a frown.

    "Oh, so you can see," was Raelle''s response.

    Before Xiang Wai could respond, Xiang Weimin held her back, "She doesn''t like people asking redundant questions. The answer is clear but you''re still asking her for one."

    Xiang Wai sipped on an icedtte that her brother brought for her and nodded aggrievedly. Was it her fault that she couldn''t really find a topic to start a conversation with her own sister? She was trying here, okay? But clearly, her interests didn''t match with Raelle''s. How was she supposed to findmon ground?

    "Is it fun?" she asked Raelle. "The study of stars, I mean."

    Raelle looked up from the book as she said, "How many nights have you spent under the night sky, Major?"

    Xiang Wai couldn''t give an exact answer to that question. How many nights? She didn''t know. From training to her missions, countless times, she spent the nights without a roof above her. There was only a night sky. Sometimes filled with stars, sometimes filled with clouds.

    "I can''t count," she told Raelle.

    "Then let me change the question," responded Raelle. "Major, have you ever stood under the starry sky wondering about the meaning of life?"

    Xiang Wai shook her head, "I don''t like the starry sky."

    "Why?"

    "Stars make me feel small and insignificant," replied Xiang Wai.

    "So Major does love to hide from the truth," said Raelle. "After all, the truth is, in front of stars you and I are really small and insignificant. But these stars are thepelling force behind humans'' pursuit to find another civilization as well. At the end of the day, the human brain isn''t to be underestimated because no matter how small or insignificant we are before these stars, we are the people who found ways to reach those stars."

    "Aren''t we just too greedy? Wanting to find another world? Another civilization?"

    Raelle shook her head, "We are just trying to find some answers. The most important ones are, who we are and where we are in this milky way. I think those are the only answers we seek."

    "Indeed. You and I don''t work on the same wavelength," said Xiang Wai.

    "Doesn''t matter," replied Raelle. "We don''t have to be on the same wavelength."

    While his sisters were busy having their strange conversation, Xiang Weimin''s attention was on Justin. That little boy seemed like he was in his own world. He took off his small backpack and opened it to take out a couple of things. First, he took a Rubik''s cube, then a mini squiz toy, an electronic doodle board, and two small booklets.

    He looked at everything he took out with a conflicted look before he picked up his Rubik''s cube and sat down to y with it. He was exceptionally well-behaved. So much so that one might not even notice his presence. He was so small anyway. It was hard to notice him at first sight.

    Out of curiosity, Xiang Weimin looked at his small booklets and raised his brows. Both booklets were on how to grow flowers and create your own mini garden. Xiang Weimin looked up at Justin who was looking back at him from the time he took his booklets.

    Being stared at by such a young kid with such clear eyes, Xiang Weimin was a little flustered.

    Clearing his throat, he asked, "Do you like flowers?"

    Justin thought about it before he finally answered in a small voice, "Like."

    Xiang Weimin looked over at his sisters who weren''t paying attention to this side and held up his hand against his mouth as he whispered, "I also like flowers." The reason he whispered so secretly was that it was actually a secret that not many people knew. At least, no one in his family knew it.

    His father might have an idea because he specifically hired a gardener to take care of his cherishes flowers but nobody else knew. Even back when he used to stay in the army dormitory, his roommate didn''t know even though he kept potted flowers and took special care of them.

    As for why it was a secret, he believed it didn''t go well with his cold image. He was such a serious person but he was fond of flowers. It really didn''t sit well with his image at all. So, he never spoke about it.

    Growing up, he was also a very lonely person so he believed nts kept himpany, and every spring when his flowers bloomed, he felt exceptionally happy to see their growth. He felt aplished.

    Knowing that he also liked flowers, Justin introduced himself, "I''m Justin. You are?"

    "Xiang Weimin," answered Xiang Weimin. He pointed at Raelle and Xiang Wai, "That''s my youngest sister. And that one is also my sister. She is Xiang Wai."

    Justin nodded his head in understanding.

    Xiang Weimin took out a pack of dried mangoes from his pocket and offered it to him, "Want some dried mangoes?"

    Little Justin hesitated but still took a piece from the packet and happily munched on it. Seeing his happy face, Xiang Weimin said, "It seems you like it too."

    "I do," replied Justin a little cheerfully. He didn''t look as quiet as earlier. Suddenly even the look in his eyes changed when he looked at Xiang Weimin. From earlier restraint and cautiousness and hesitation, now his eyes were sparkling. And Xiang Weimin felt like there should be a sparkle in those eyes that looked like his own and his sisters.

    Sadly, neither he nor his sister had the sparkle in their eyes.

    "You can have some more if you like it," said Xiang Weimin with gentleness in his voice. He pointed at the electronic doodle board and asked, "Can I borrow that?"

    Justin held it to him with his small hands.

    Xiang Weimin took it and touched his head, "Thank you, Justin!"

    Little Justin just smiled slightly in return.

 Chapter 896: Attack Moves

    Chapter 896: Attack Moves"Ge, don''t you think you''re looking for friends in the wrong generation?" asked Xiang Wai when she finally noticed the interaction between Justin and Xiang Weimin. Her brother obviously wasn''t someone who would initiate to make friends.

    Xiang Weimin kept his head down as he continued to draw something on the electronic board in his hands as he replied to his sister, "When ites to friendship, there is no such thing as the wrong generation."

    "Is it okay for you two to make me feel like the dumb sibling?" asked Xiang Wai. "I know I''m the middle child but stop squeezing me. You both are like bread while I''m the bloody jam stuck between you two."

    "Your presence makes the bread seem more appealing," said Xiang Weimin.

    "Ge!"

    Xiang Weimin looked up at her, "What? Why are you getting so worked up?"

    "Perhaps because we are taking her time. She''d rather spend this time with someone else."

    Xiang Wai looked at Raelle, "I did not think you''re this kind of a person."

    "Then you should start re-evaluating me," replied Raelle. She stood up to leave and ended up looking at what Xiang Weimin had been drawing, "You''re good at drawing, Lieutenant."

    Xiang Weimin looked down at the drawing he did and looked back up at Raelle, "You sure about that?"

    "Sure!" replied Raelle.

    Little Justin curiously stood up and walked to Xiang Weimin''s side. He looked at the screen and his eyes brightened. Xiang Weimin had actually chosen to draw a cute little Groot in a pot. It looked adorable. And although Justin was quiet and withdrawn unlike others his age, he was still a kid who was attracted to such cartoon characters.

    He was very happy to see it and couldn''t help staring at it.

    "It seems Justin also likes it," said Raelle. She looked at the time and added, "I should be leaving now. My husband must have been back and if he didn''t see me in the ward, he might lose his mind. So... How about you both help me send Justin back to his mother''s ward?"

    "I''ll do it," offered Xiang Weimin.

    "You''re very proactive today, Lieutenant but I like it," said Raelle. "Little one, I''ll see youter. You follow this uncle to your mother, okay?"

    Justin blinked at her but agreed. Of course, he wouldn''t have agreed if it was before but in thest 30 minutes, he seemed to have found amon interest with Xiang Weimin so he wasn''t averse to the idea of following him.

    Holding the book, Raelle went out and ran into Gou Jinjin who wasing back. She was rubbing her forehead and looked really pissed off. But seeing Raelle, she put on a smile.

    "You don''t have to smile if you don''t want to," said Raelle.

    Gou Jinjin stopped smiling instantly. One thing she hated the most in the hospital was dealing with difficult family members. It truly took a toll on her mental health. No wonder her grandfather suggested, that she join clinical research instead of administration when he decided she wanted to leave the surgery.

    She dug her own grave.

    "You''re leaving?" asked Gou Jinjin. "I''m so sorry, I couldn''t even sit with you."

    "That''s okay," said Raelle. "Thanks for letting us use your personal space. Also, I''m taking this book with me. Lieutenant... I mean, my brother also brought you cake. It''s on your desk. Don''t forget to eat it. I heard sweet things make people feel forget their worries."

    Gou Jinjin nodded her, "Okay. There is no need to thank me. The book is yours. You can keep it for as long as you want. If your brother is around, I should thank him for the cake. Sweets do help with stress. So, it''s very timely."

    "See youter," said Raelle and left.

    Gou Jinjin looked at her receding back and shook her head, "She is so damn adorable. Who said shecks emotions?"

    By the time Raelle came back to her ward, she found Shui Xian standing in the ward with a gloomy air surrounding him. "Hubby, you''re back!"

    Shui Xian wanted to turn to look at her but she hugged him from behind and didn''t let go. He sighed heavily. How was he supposed to get mad if she acted like this? No, he had to set his foot down!

    "Where were you?" he asked. "Did you send me to the meeting so that you can wander around the hospital? Didn''t I tell you to stay here and rest well? I even allowed you to work moderately. Why are you still running around in this condition?"

    "But I''m fine," said Raelle. "Besides, I wasn''t wandering around."

    Shui Xian turned around with his arms around her waist, "Why did you go out?"

    "I went to see Tang Hebe," replied Raelle honestly.

    "Is it okay for you to meet her again and again?" asked Shui Xian.

    "It''s okay, I still have a few attack moves to deliver," said Raelle.

    "What?" he furrowed his brows in confusion. What was she up to? Why couldn''t he understand it? And why wasn''t he surprised that he couldn''t understand it?

    Raelle kissed his chin as she said, "I usually don''t do this. But I think I need to pay her back for the pain she gave you. If she hurt you, I''ll hurt her in return. I''m very capable of doing that. I don''t even have to use my hands to get back at her."

    Shui Xian didn''t know whether he shouldugh in this situation or not. That warm and sweet feeling settled into his heart and kissed her forehead, "Why are you like this?" He thought he should feel bad for Tang Hebe to run into Raelle but he actually didn''t. Even if he moved on, it felt particrly warm to know that someone was willing to stand up for him.

    "Don''t know," she replied. If she had the answer to that question wouldn''t life be simpler for everyone?

 Chapter 897: Burn Me

    Chapter 897: Burn MeRaelle wrapped her arms around his neck as she pulled his head down to touch his forehead with her own. Shui Xian brushed his nose with hers saying, "Don''t just think about your attack moves."

    "Who said I''m thinking about it all the time?" she asked. "I don''t have the time to waste on that. Besides, does someone like me even need to n her next attack moves? Ites spontaneously to me."

    Shui Xianughed at that and hummed, "Yes, it definitelyes naturally to you." He closed his eyes in that position as he asked, "So, how did you spend these three hours? I highly doubt that you spent all these hours with Tang Hebe."

    "I can never do that," said Raelle. "A naive person like her isn''t a suitablepany for me. She is too gullible. I think if someone even sold her, she''d be left counting the money."

    "No, you''re wrong," said Shui Xian. "It''s more like she''d end up selling her soul and won''t even be getting any money but she''d still be happy with the deal."

    "Husband, you shouldn''t talk like this about her."

    Shui Xian shrugged, "I''m also a very petty person."

    Thinking of something, she told him, "You know one of the nurses asked me about you. They were surprised that today you weren''t around when you''re usually stuck to me like glue." Shui Xian didn''t feel embarrassed at all. What was wrong with it? He was staying with his wife, he didn''t think there was anything wrong with it. "The other one said that all the females at the nurse station are envious of me for having a husband who looks like he came straight out of a book."

    "That''s a tteringpliment," said Shui Xian. "What do you think, wifey? Is your husband really someone who seems like he came out of a book?"

    "I won''t know that," replied Raelle. "Because I think I haven''t read the books they spoke about."

    "Then you should read a couple of them," suggested Shui Xian. He looked at the book she threw on the bed and added, "Instead of reading about stars."

    "But that''s not the kind of a book, I''m interested in," was Raelle''s argument. Her hand slid down from his neck to his chest and skimmed over his abdomen in a very slow motion before settling down against his heart. It was just a touch with ayer of fabric between them but Shui Xian felt like her hand was being dishonest and definitely up to no good. "I think I''m interested in this book a lot."

    Shui Xian pressed his lips together to suppress them from smiling widely. "I thought you already read me."

    Raelle''s face came close to his ear. Her lips caressed his earlobe gently as she whispered, "Wanna know a secret?" Her hot breath wasn''t helping at all since Shui Xian''s earlobes were feeling warm now.

    "What is it?" he tried to control his breathing but his question still sounded breathy.

    Raelle didn''t change her position and spoke, "I think I found the book I can re-read over and over again without getting bored."

    Shui Xian''s heart trembled when he heard that. This wasn''t a simplepliment. It was a huge deal considering Raelle was someone who never re-read a book. She read so many books but those books were only read once. She said she never visited the books she once read again because her memory was too good and she didn''t think there was a need to waste her time on reading something she already had read.

    She''d rather use that time to read something new. But now, she was telling him she was willing to read him like a book over and over again.

    "I think I can die in peace now," said Shui Xian. "I just received the biggestpliment of my life. And that too from my wife. I feel so honored right now."

    "So, which page should I read again," Raelle said seemingly to herself as her hand moved again. Her index and middle finger acted like two legs as they moved down to unbutton his shirt. As unbuttoned the three buttons, she continued to ask, "Tell me, which page should I read again?"

    "Wifey, you can take your time," said Shui Xian and held his breath when she pinched his waist.

    "This page seems interesting," she said. Feeling how her hand was going lower and lower, Shui Xian''s eyes widened when she ced her soft hand over his manhood without any warning and asked, "I think I''m interested in this one."

    "Damn it!" Shui Xian grunted lowly. He was already stirred from the moment her hand started being so dishonest but when she ced it right there, his manhood hardened immediately under her touch. "Baby, do you want to burn me?"

    "We can burn together," she said. "I don''t mind."

    Shui Xian was helpless before her and with much effort, he ced his hand over hers saying, "Don''t do it. You already know I have no control when ites to you. Why do you have to do this?"

    "Buttely, you''ve been showing very good control," was Raelle''s argument.

    "That''s only because you''re still recovering. Am I a beast? How can I even think about anything else when you''re already hurting?"

    "I''m not hurting now."

    "But you''re hurting me," he said as he tried to move her hand from down there. "Let''s wait. We''re not doing anything unless the doctor says you''re fine."

    "You clearly want it," she pointed out.

    "I''ll manage it myself," he told her. "You don''t have to worry about me and stop doing this to me. I''ll really lose my mind. I have already lost my heart to you, do you really want me to lose my mind as well?"

    "It can''t be that serious."

    "It is," he insisted. "You either don''t understand how you have me in your chokehold or you just like messing with the control you have over me."

 Chapter 898: Got My Attention

    Chapter 898: Got My AttentionShui Xian had to pick her up and take her back to the bed, he made her lie down saying, "Stay here, I''ll be right back."

    She held his hand to stop him, "You know, I can help you."

    Shui Xian poked her forehead and pushed her back down, "Darling, you really have done enough. Don''t do anything now. If you did... It won''t end well."

    He already knew that she held the upper hand in their rtionship. But it didn''t stop him from getting shocked every single time at how easy it was to turn him on. He''d be a marite that she could y with however she wanted. Well, he didn''t mind following her lead most of the time but today was definitely not that day.

    He ran to the bathroom while Raelle was left staring at his back.

    "Wouldn''t it be easier if I helped?" Raelle wondered out loud and picked up the book she had brought with her. But instead of reading it, she just stared at the title page without doing anything else.

    Suddenly, she found her phone and looked at the message that Xiang Wai sent her. She looked at the contact details of her mother and pondered over it. She didn''t call her immediately. She sent a message first, ''Hi, it''s Raelle. Whenever you''re free, call me on this number.''

    That was all. She said nothing unnecessary and she didn''t exin anything either. She already understood Song Xin''ai so she was sure this was the right move. Calling her right now won''t be fruitful anyway so she''d rather send a message to gives a heads up.

    Also, the words in the message didn''t express the purpose, she was certain that Song Xin''ai would call back whenever she could.

    When Shui Xian came out, he had changed his clothes already. "What do you want to have for dinner?" he asked her.

    Raelle looked up at him and questioned, "Hubby, what exactly does it mean that you came out of a book? Is it referring to your looks?"

    "Why? You want to do research on that now?" asked Shui Xian.

    "I have time," she told him. "I might do it."

    Shui Xian walked over to her side and leaned down. He tipped up her chin as his face came closer to her and he looked earnest as he said, "Woman, you''ve caught my attention!"

    Raelle tilted her head to a side and blinked at him nkly while he tried to maintain his expression but couldn''t. Sighing, he said, "You''ll get to read this dialogue a lot. Are you still interested in that research?"

    "Let''s find something else to do," said Raelle.

    Shui Xianughed out loud and wasn''t even surprised by her mood change. As much as he knew about his dear wife, she definitely won''t be interested in that kind of story. Just because she wanted to find out why those nurses gave her husband such ament, she wanted to read more romance books as if she forgot herst experience with this genre.

    "We''ll be going home this weekend," he told her.

    "That means I''m fine now."

    "No, it means, I don''t want you to stay at the hospital anymore. We''ll just let you rest at home," he added.

    But she actually didn''t care about that. Going home was a lot more important at the moment.

    ...

    "Stop looking at your watch," said Xiang Weimin. "If you have somewhere to go, just leave!"

    Xiang Wai looked at her brother sheepishly, "I came with you, how can I just leave?"

    "Am I a kid? Why do I need you to keep mepany? Are you my babysitter? Or a nanny? Just go away if you want to."

    "I was being a considerate sister here," she argued.

    "And since when did you take the role of a considerate sister?" he asked.

    "Ge, you don''t have to hurt me like this," she said with a pout. "And that too, in front of a kid."

    "Even Justin can see you''re impatient to leave," said Xiang Weimin and looked at Justin. "Right?"

    Justin lifted his head and nodded vigorously to show his agreement.

    Xiang Wai didn''t know how she should react. Even a kid could expose her now. But who asked her to show her emotions? She was really impatient. She had only been chatting with Zhai Yanjun on the phone since they decided to give each other a chance. Today was a rare chance for her to go on their first date.

    She thought she''d be able to get there on time after apanying her brother to the hospital but who knew it''d take so much time? She was worried that Zhai Yanjun must be waiting. A part of her wanted to make him wait and see if he had the patient and the other part was feeling bad for making him wait for her.

    Seeing her twisted expressions, Xiang Weimin rolled his eyes, "Wai, leave already!"

    "Yes, Comrade!"

    She stood up and even saluted him before running off. She ended up seeing how Gou Jinjin was suppressing herughter while she tried to concentrate on the documents in front of her.

    "Bye, Cousin Wai!" said Gou Jinjin and finally looked up. "I''m looking forward to seeing you again!"

    "Why?" asked Xiang Wai bluntly in confusion.

    "Because you look just like my kind of a person," replied Gou Jinjin.

    Xiang Wai frowned at her and looked vigntly at her.

    Gou Jinjin took in her reaction and sighed, "Just distrustful are you of people?"

    "No one is interested in others without a reason," said Xiang Wai.

    "But we are cousins," said Gou Jinjin. "Having lived in the same country for years, it''s our first time meeting. Don''t you feel like we should get to know each other more?"

    "The people I least trust in my life are the ones who call themselves ''my cousin''."

    Gou Jinjin didn''t seem surprised by her reaction and shrugged, "Have fun on your date."

    "How do you know where I am going?"

    "It''s written on your face!"

    Xiang Wai covered her face and ran out.

 Chapter 899: Not Scary

    Chapter 899: Not ScaryGou Jinjin looked over to see Xiang Weimin and said, "Colonel, your sister has trust issues."

    "She doesn''t have a good experience with ''cousins''," said Xiang Weimin.

    Gou Jinjin supported her face with her hand as she added, "It''s Lieutenant Colonel."

    "For now," she added. "You''ll get there soon. We have faith in you."

    "This is our first time meeting."

    Gou Jinjin gasped, "You don''t remember me?"

    Xiang Weimin stared at her and said, "My memory is not that bad. You''re the girl who killed my fish."

    "It wasn''t me," she defended herself. "It was my cat."

    "You and your car shared the same temperament so I think you should take the me for your cat," said Xiang Weimin.

    "Wei Ge, we were kids," said Gou Jinjin. "Is it okay for you to actually remember that? Even my poor kitty is no longer around. We shouldn''t speak ill of people who are gone."

    "My condolences."

    "She didn''t die," replied Gou Jinjin. "She eloped with a neighborhood cat. So much for being faithful."

    Xiang Weimin was left staring at her while she shrugged nonchntly.

    "I thought I saw you at the medical camp a couple of years ago but now, I think it must be your twin sister."

    "Oh my! You even remember that I have a twin sister? You have a good memory."

    Xiang Weimin took a moment before asking her, "Aren''t you a doctor?"

    "I don''t practice anymore," answered Gou Jinjin.

    "Why?" he asked.

    "I just don''t," she replied without exining anything and he stopped asking.

    "Justin, did you pack up everything?" Xiang Weimin called out to Justin whom he asked to pack his backpack so they could leave. Justin came over wearing his backpack and stood beside him. Xiang Weimin rubbed his head, "Oh, you''re all set."

    Gou Jinjin''s eyes wandered from Xiang Weimin to Justin and narrowed slightly. Shaking her head, she said, "Wei Ge, thanks for the dessert." Before he could say anything, she went on, "Is it okay to call you Wei Ge? When we were young, I called you Gege. It''d be weird if I did the same now. So, maybe Min Ge? Or Wei Ge is fine? Which one sounds better?"

    "Jinjin," Xiang Weimin called out. "Call me whatever you want."

    "Oh," she responded. "Oh right, how is my aunt? Raelle said she had been busy that''s why I haven''t gone to visit her."

    "She does seem busy," said Xiang Weimin. "She has started a clothing brand and the stores opening have her hand full these days."

    "How much more money does she want?"

    "I don''t think she is doing it for money," was his response. "Take care of yourself. And don''t wait for so long. You can juste over after work whenever you want. I don''t think Aunt Yan would mind."

    Gou Jinjin nodded her head and waved her hand at Justin, "Bye, little man!"

    Justin hid behind Xiang Weimin making Gou Jinjin not know whether tough or cry. "Damn! I really didn''t think I was that scary."

    Even Xiang Weimin smiled to see the reaction of Justin. He thought he was a lot scarier than Gou Jinjin and even Gou Jinjin held the same opinion as she said, "Little man, don''t you think this uncle is scarier? I''m only a paper tigerpared to him." Xiang Weimin raised his brow at her and she added, "What? Am I wrong? I''m not the one who has seen real blood like you."

    Xiang Weimin couldn''t argue with that.

    Justin pursed his small lips before he slipped his hand into Xiang Weimin''s and said, "Not scary."

    Gou Jinjin was in disbelief while Xiang Weimin was pleasantly surprised as well.

    "Wei Ge, you''re good,"mented Gou Jinjin and sighed heavily. "By the way, you''re also a patient of our hospital, how are you recovering? Do you have anything to say about your attending doctor?"

    "I''m doing fine," replied Xiang Weimin.

    "I really missed out on a lot while I was away from the hospital. I''d have taken better care of you," said Gou Jinjin.

    "I don''t trust you," said Xiang Weimin. "I really don''t."

    Gou Jinjin looked at him, "I''m not that same little girl."

    "I still don''t trust you," was his response before he waved at her and took Justin out.

    "I can''t believe this. But I can''t even me him. Even my own sister doesn''t trust me," Gou Jinjin muttered to herself and shook her head. She didn''t think she left such asting impression on Xiang Weimin when they were young.

    They grew up in different cities so it wasn''t like they saw each other very much but still she was able to leave a mark on her cousin''s memory. She should bemended for this!

    Xiang Weimin silently walked with Justin and while he was focused on everything around him, Justin was focused on Xiang Weimin. He seemed too tall to the small kid who couldn''t even reach his waist. Even his hand was too small in those big hands. No one could tell what was running through his tiny brain right now.

    "Is this it?" asked Xiang Weimin as he stood before the VIP ward.

    Justin nodded his head.

    Xiang Weimin knocked on the door and a middle-aged woman opened the door. "Young Master," the woman called out.

    Justin didn''t walk toward her. He was looking up at Xiang Weimin and finally let his hand go.

    Xiang Weimin found his expression very amusing. "My sister, Raelle asked me to bring him here. Now, that I have escorted him safely, I should leave." He touched Justin''s head, "Bye, little buddy!"

    Nanny Mi looked at the man before her and the way Justin looked at that man as well. She thought it was already surprising to see Justin interacting with Raelle but who knew she''d b getting more surprises?

    "Miss had a headache so she went to sleep. Or else, she''de to thank you in person," said Nanny Mi.

    "Oh, there is no need for that," said Xiang Weimin. "I didn''t even do anything."

    He smiled warmly and Justin before turning to leave. Justin was left staring at his retreating back until his figure disappeared from his vision. And his mood actually fell almost instantly.

 Chapter 900: Dating

    Chapter 900: DatingSince Xiang Wai hade with Xiang Weimin, she had to take a taxi on her way back. She gave the driver the location while she pulled out her phone to check. She already received Zhai Yanjun''s text that he was already there.

    She looked very impatient as she kept urging the driver to drive fast. But the location they chose for their date was a little far so it still took her over half an hour to get there. Thankfully, the rush hour wasn''t here yet or she''d be spending hours on the road.

    When she arrived there, she looked around to find Zhai Yanjun and it didn''t take long to find him in the big crowd. Only he was the one with short hair and such a straight posture like he was standing at attention in the assembly.

    "Jun!" she called out and when he noticed her, his eyes brightened up. The face that gave off a cold aura was suddenly like sunshine. Xiang Wai was stunned by his smile and on impulse, she ran over and jumped to hug him.

    Thankfully, he caught her and hugged her back saying, "You should be a little careful." She grinned in response. "By the way, I don''t think that''s how people meet on their first date."

    "Oh?" Xiang Wai stepped away from him. Sheposed herself and said, "You''re right. This is our first date. I forgot for a moment."

    Zhai Yanjun smiled lovingly at her and finally got the chance to show her the sunflowers bouquet he held in his hand all this time. Xiang Wai was taken aback. She didn''t even notice that he had flowers with him.

    "Although you aren''t a big fan of these, this is still one of the steps we have to take," he told her. "So, I hope you like these flowers."

    "Why sunflowers?" she asked as she took the bouquet from him.

    "Because we both are like sunflowers," he answered. "We both made each other sun and continued to follow each other for years even when it burned us."

    Xiang Wai held the bouquet which didn''t go well with her tough girl persona very well but who cared right now? She was over the moon to have received the flowers from someone she loved so much that it hurt. It hurt but she still stubbornly loved this person. It was just good to know that he was the same as her.

    The person whom she thought would never love her was actually madly in love with her. How could that not make her happy?

    "So, where are we going today?" she asked.

    "I heard about a famous parfait ce," he told her. "They always have a long queue outside the shop. The business is very good. And girls seem to love it very much. You like desserts so I thought it was a perfect ce for our first date, what do you think? Is it okay?"

    Xiang Wai was holding herself from grinning foolishly. That won''t look good. She had to keep reminding herself to behave properly.

    "It sounds fine," she told him. "But we''ll have to queue up in this sun?"

    "No," he told her. "You''re here just at the right time. It''s our turn now."

    Xiang Wai couldn''t smile for a moment when she understood the meaning of those words. He had been standing here for a long time in the burning sun to get them a table inside. She didn''t know how to feel at the moment. But the feeling that overwhelmed all the others was that she felt so bad for him.

    Taking out a pack of tissue, she wiped his sweat. Only now, she understood why he was sweating so much.

    "You''ll go silly at this rate," shemented.

    Zhai Yanjun''s eyes were glued to her as she wiped his sweat with worry so visible in her eyes. Who cared about what she said right now? Silly? He was okay with it.

    It seemed Shui Xian was right, if he was sincere, it didn''t matter how simple their date was, it''d still be the best time of their life together. He should start listening more to Shui Xian. At least, he had experience with dating. And he had a lot to learn from Shui Xian.

    "Shall we go inside?" suggested Zhai Yanjun.

    "Mm..." she hummed in response and followed him inside the parfait ce.

    He wasn''t lying when he said it was a ce famous for girls because she could see girls everywhere. Some were in groups, some were just pairs. But all of them seemed happy here trying out their favorite vors.

    She obviously won''t tell him that she just had desserts. Well, the more desserts the better. She would never say no to more desserts. Besides, earlier she had cakes. Now, it was different.

    "Which vor would you like? I heard the chocte parfait is good. But you like fruits as well. So, how about Grapefruit, lime, and mint parfait?" he was introducing her to the most popr vors and adding his ownments about which suited her palette and all.

    Xiang Wai ced her hand on his as she said, "You seem to have done a lot of research for this."

    "It''s my first date, I have to impress my date," he told her. "I can''t do a shabby job at this now, can I?"

    Xiang Wai smiled at him, "You can order whatever you like. I''m fine with all. I feel like trying all."

    "Okay," he agreed. He made the order for both of them and patiently waited for their order toe.

    "I heard your battalion is very busy these days," she started. "Don''t tell me you''re gonna get in trouble because ofing out for this date?"

    "Don''t worry," he told her. "I rarely do this. No one will mind. Not mymander for sure. I told him that I''m courting a wife so he was more than eager to let me leave the Base after the work is done."

    Xiang Wai gaped at him, "You did not tell him that."

    "I did," Zhai Yanjun didn''t hide it from her. In fact, what he didn''t say was that, everyone in his battalion knew at this moment that he was courting a wife.

 Chapter 901: Miserable Skills

    Chapter 901: Miserable SkillsSeeing that Zhai Yanjun didn''t seem to be lying, Xiang Wai forgot how to react for a moment. "Why did you tell him that?"

    "He wanted to introduce me to some distant rtive of his," replied Zhai Yanjun. "So, I just told him I already have someone in my heart." Of course, that happened half a year ago when they had already broken up. But he didn''t need to tell that detail as well.

    Xiang Wai pressed her lips together and didn''t say anything. Soon, their orders were delivered and Xiang Wai was more than happy to see the appearance of the parfait. She felt like she could eat more just because of the pleasing presentation.

    As he was about to pick up his spoon to dig in, he suddenly noticed something and asked, "Do you want me to click pictures for you?"

    "Huh?" She didn''t understand his meaning.

    So, Zhai Yanjun pointed toward the other customers as he said, "All those girls seem to be clicking pictures. Some are even clicking pictures of the cute dessert before them. So, I just thought maybe you''d be interested in that too?" He pressed his lips together and without waiting for her response, he added, "Or we should take a picture together? We don''t seem to have a photo together."

    Xiang Wai was stunned when he pointed that out.

    "We can keep it as a memory of our first date," he added further.

    Xiang Wai nodded her head like a woodpecker and hurriedly agreed, "Yes, let''s do that."

    Zhai Yanjun took his phone to click a selfie but obviously, it didn''t turn out very well. He felt embarrassed and said, "How about you try it?" So, Xiang Wai tried to take a selfie but it still didn''t work out. It was a sad reality but these two not only didn''t know how to date right, they also didn''t know how to click a photo.

    This realization was very embarrassing. They were so good at their jobs. When had they fallen short in their training or in their missions? Which of the targets couldn''t they shoot with their guns in the end, they failed miserably with the camera angle?

    "This..." Xiang Wai was staring at the picture she clicked and didn''t know what to say. She thought even Zhai Yanjun did a better job than her.

    Clearing his throat, Zhai Yanjun called for the server and politely said, "Can you help us take a picture?"

    The server was a young girl and was very enthusiastic, so she readily agreed when she saw the handsome couple who both gave off a heroic aura. She thought they were very well matched so she clicked a couple more photos before giving back the phone saying, "You both look so good together."

    "Thank you!" Zhai Yanjun said to her and looked at the photos she clicked. He finally looked satisfied. Withoutparison, he already thought they had no sense for photography but withparison, he realized just how worse they were. "Let''s eat."

    Xiang Wai hummed in response and took the spoon to dig into the creamy richness before her. She already loved the appearance but now, she loved the taste even more and continued to spoonful unhurriedly. She seemed to be enjoying it very much and Zhai Yanjun was left staring at her.

    Shui Xian''s words suddenly rang in his mind, ''Don''t just think about things. You need to take a moment to shut your mind, slow down and just focus on that one person before you. You''ll realize how blissful that moment is.''

    Zhai Yanjun didn''t understand Shui Xian when he heard that. But that wasn''t anything new considering, he mostly didn''t understand Shui Xian''s emotional talk. However, today, he understood his meaning clearly.

    As he blocked out the rest of the world, and just focused on Xiang Wai in front of him, he really felt like it was the most blissful moment of his life. Everything was in slow motion around him. Everything was a blur and his focus was only on her who was so easily satisfied with just one dessert. Ah! No wonder Shui Xian said he knew nothing about Xiang Wai even after spending a decade with her. It seemed he really was right when he decided to learn about her all over again.

    In this re-introduction stage of their dating, they seemed to be learning something new about each other.

    "Do you want to try mine?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "Can I?" Xiang Wai''s eyes showed her eagerness to try. No matter how much she liked the vor she was eating, she was still curious about the other vors.

    Zhai Yanjun took a spoonful and brought it to her mouth, Xiang Wai looked at his hand and then his eyes. Subconsciously, she opened her mouth.

    Zhai Yanjun was happy to see that. Especially when she said, "Oh, yours is also good."

    "You can eat mine if you want?"

    Xiang Wai shook her head, "I shouldn''t eat so may sweets in one day. What if I got a stomachache?"

    Zhai Yanjun and ate slowly. Meanwhile, Xiang Wai was trying to control her expressions. She actually wanted to smile foolishly but she held herself back again. This is the first date, maintain your image, she kept reminding herself. But her heart was feeling so sweet, she was about to get diabetes already.

    After eating the parfait, they came out. The sun was already going down, so the heat wasn''t as bad as earlier. "Should we go for a walk?" asked Zhai Yanjun when he saw that she looked very reluctant to end the date here. Not like he nned to end it here.

    Xiang Wai agreed and extended her hand towards him and when she noticed how he looked at her hand, she asked, "It''s okay to hold hands on the first date, right?"

    Zhai Yanjun chuckled and held her hand. Intertwining his fingers with hers, he said, "Everything is allowed as long as you want it."

 Chapter 902: Rich Sponsor

    Chapter 902: Rich SponsorHyson was keen enough to notice that everyone in thepany seemed to be looking at him. More like, sneaking peeks at him and then discussing something which definitely involved him. But he wasn''t interested in whatever gossip was making rounds in thepany regarding him.

    He went straight to his manager''s room and plopped down on the recliner before closing his eyes to rest. He had juste back from an ad shoot and just wanted to close his eyes to rx for a moment but apparently, he was asking for too much.

    Soon, the door opened and his manager came inside, "You''re here."

    Hyson hummed in response to Li Xinxin''s words.

    "How was the shoot?" asked Li Xinxin. "I was supposed to follow you but I had to deal with something urgently."

    "It''s okay," replied Hyson without opening his eyes. "The assistant you gave me is good enough. Although she is a little clumsy, she is good at her work."

    "That''s good," said Li Xinxin. She had been meaning to ask him about the assistant she chose for him but didn''t seem to get any time to have a chat with him. She waited for a moment as she contemted. She also was part of thepany so she obviously heard the gossip about her artist.

    "Sister Xin, don''t hum and haw," came Hyson''s voice. "You obviously want to say something. Just shoot already."

    "There is a rumor going on around thepany," started Li Xinxin. "They say you have a gold master supporting you."

    "Oh?" responded Hyson carelessly. "I thought this was old news." It''s not like he was oblivious to the spections people had regarding his background. Most people assumed he was from a rich family background but those who were jealous also liked to throw dirty water at him saying he was being supported by a rich madam and was pretending to be a prince.

    Hyson was still very carefree so he didn''t care.

    "Today, there seems to be a heated discussion again because some people saw you getting out a limited edition luxury car. They also im that there was an older woman in the car." She even pulled out her phone and showed him a sneak shot that showed him when he alighted from Mu Chenyan''s car and you could also see Mu Chenyan''s face. Although it was blurry, one could still see it was a woman.

    Hysonughed out loud once he saw this. He found this so funny that his eyes got teary. "I can''t even refute this one. Sister Xin, don''t bother. I am what I am because of the women in that car. So, you don''t have to fight with anyone. Without their support, I''d be no one."

    Li Xinxin was momentarily quiet and picked up something from his words, "Women? You mean there wasn''t just one?"

    "No, there were two women in there," said Hyson.

    "And what''s your rtionship with them?" she asked.

    "What do you think?" asked Hyson in return instead of answering her question.

    Li Xinxin was quiet for a moment before she said, "Well, I don''t believe that anyone of them is your rich sponsor. I''d believe it easily if you say one of them is your mother."

    "What if both are my mothers?"

    Li Xinxin raised her brow inquisitively at him.

    Hyson smiled at her reaction, "By the way, you really trust me, or do you look down on me and think that I can''t catch myself a rich sponsor?"

    Li Xinxin rolled her eyes at that, "I''m not blind. Why do I feel like we have had this discussion before? Am I tripping?" She scratched her head and asked, "Did we talk about this when I was drunk?"

    "No," replied Hyson.

    "Why don''t you tell me what I said when I was drunk?"

    Hyson shrugged, "There was nothing important."

    Li Xinxin obviously didn''t believe him this time. How could nothing be important? She knew herself. She must have done something when she was drunk.

    "I''m really sorry for that day."

    "Sister Xin, you''ve apologized already," reminded Hyson.

    "I still can''t believe that I was so unprofessional to call my artist out to a bar while I was drunk." Whenever she thought about that, she wanted to p herself.

    "I look at it in a different way," said Hyson. "You feltfortable enough to call me out because you trust me. And at that time, you definitely needed a listener so you thought about me. I really don''t mind."

    "Don''t say that," she shook her head. "What if I called you again when I''m drinking alone? You can''t spoil my habits like this."

    Hyson didn''t respond to that but said, "Let''s get serious. Whoever is distributing that photo of mine, you should tell them to be careful. My mothers are not that easy to mess with. One of them might be a delicate flower, but the other is a piranha. If they so randomly tried to use this against me, they shouldn''t me me for the consequences because even I won''t be able to control the situation then." Obviously, he wasn''t being a good-hearted person by warning, he just didn''t want to attract more trouble to himself. And he knew if Mu Chenyan got involved, there would be trouble.

    Li Xinxin took his words seriously and decided to do her best to curb this stupid rumor. Wasn''t it obvious enough that her artist didn''t need a rich sponsor? He was rich enough himself.

    "Don''t worry, I''ll handle it well," said Li Xinxin. "You tell me seriously, how was the shoot?"

    "It was really fine," repeated Hyson. "I''m not used to doing ads alone so it felt kinda lonely at first but it was fer on."

    "You have to get used to doing things alone," said Li Xinxin. "Although thepany doesn''t want you guys to disband, they want to cultivate you individually. You all have so much talent, it''d be a shame to just focus on group activities. So, you''ll have to take more endorsements."

    "I understand," Hyson nodded. "I told you, I''ll follow thepany''s arrangements. I have noints at all."

 Chapter 903: Pay Attention

    Chapter 903: Pay AttentionLi Xinxin seriously looked at him wondering what went through his brain. Why was her artist so difficult to understand? He was so easy to get along with but she wasn''t able to see through him. She couldn''t tell what was on his mind. He always easily agreed with her ideas but she couldn''t say that he was obedient enough to blindly follow her ideas.

    He was definitely a smart bean but acted like a cute bean instead.

    "Sister Xin!"

    "Hm?"

    "Did you patch up with your boyfriend?" asked Hyson.

    She nodded her head with her lips curled up slightly, "We talked everything out."

    "Tsk."

    "What''s with that reaction?"

    "Nothing, I just thought if you didn''t n on patching things up with your boyfriend, I could introduce you to my elder brother."

    "Aren''t you an only child?"

    "One and only!" he replied.

    "Then where did this elder brothere from?"

    "Who said brothers have to share blood? Families are not made that way, Sister Xin. If you keep thinking like that, you''d eventually find yourself very lonely in this big world. You have to open your mind and heart. ept people into your life with an open mind."

    "You and your words of wisdom," Li Xinxin shook her head. "I can''t handle it. I''m a very average person." She took a moment and asked, "What about the scripts I gave you? Did you think about it?" She observed his reaction as she went on, "Although I figured out that fame is not what you seek, I think you have quite some potential. When I stayed at the set with you, I saw you working dedicatedly. You learned to express yourself, all the camera angles, and how to portray yourself in front of the camera. You did a very good job and I must say you have a talent."

    Hyson turned his eyes to her, "My only talent is that I don''t do things half-heartedly. Besides, everyone else in the group is trying to expand their potential and branch out. I can''t stay in the same ce. So, I think I''ve decided to pick up my next work."

    "Which one did you like?" she asked.

    "Unforgettable Summers," he answered. "I''ll take that one."

    Li Xinxin was slightly surprised when she heard that. She definitely loved the script when she read it and that''s why she picked it up for Hyson but...

    "Are you sure?" she asked again. "Technically, you won''t be the male lead. The story is about the childhood of the protagonist. You''ll just be ying as the older version of the protagonist. And that is gonnae after more than half of the movie is done. The main protagonist is still gonna be the little boy who is ying the younger version."

    "I know," stated Hyson. "And I''m okay with that. I just like the story and I feel like it''ll be a memorable role. Don''t you think so?"

    Li Xinxin didn''t think he was an emotional person who would be touched by how tear-jerking the story of Unforgettable Summers was. And since he was a happy-go-lucky kind, she was even more certain he won''t pick up such a heavy and serious role where a sad undertoney. But he surprised her yet again. He ended up picking that very role that wasn''t like him at all.

    "Then I''ll contact the director," said Li Xinxin. "Just to be clear, you''ll have to go for the audition. Because you''re not the only one invited for the audition by the casting director. Also, if you get selected, you''ll have to learn about signnguage considering the female lead isn''t able to speak."

    Hyson was about to pick up a candy from the tray on the coffee table when his hand paused. His expression didn''t even change as he told her, "Don''t worry. I can manage."

    "I know," she said. "You''re very dedicated. Of course, you''ll put your all into the role. I shouldn''t even be worried about you at all."

    "By the way, is the child star selected for the role?" asked Hyson nonchntly as he threw candy into his mouth.

    "Yeah, they selected him from the get-go," answered Li Xinxin. "I don''t know if you''ve heard about him. His stage name is Chen. As for his real name, I have no clue. He had been getting quite some attention for the role he yedst year. He was very good at it. So, the director insisted on casting him once he saw his performance."

    "Oh," was all Hyson said in response.

    "You haven''t heard about him, right?"

    "I didn''t," replied Hyson honestly.

    "Argh! Why are you like this, Fai? Do you even look like a star? You don''t even keep up with thetest trends!" She was hopping mad right now seeing his nonchnce. "Pay some attention around the circle. You are a part of this circle. It''s not okay to be so carefree."

    "I''ll try," said Hyson instead of arguing with her. He could tell she''ll give a long lecture if he chose to say one wrong word right now. And he wasn''t in the mood for that at all. He stood up to leave, "Tell me about the audition date. I''ll try to get there. It''ste. I should go back now. Bye-bye!"

    Saying that he ran out without waiting for her response. He patted his chest once he was out of her range and breathed out a sigh of relief, "She does have a temper!"

    He was thinking about calling his assistant to drive him back home when he caught sight of Lin Zhen. His leader seemed to be standing with another man who definitely looked like a big shot. Of course, he didn''t know him. Sorry, he was just that oblivious about the circle he worked in but from the way that person looked, it was obvious that he was a big shot!

    "Zhen Ge!"

    The statement between the two men was broken by Hyson''s voice. Lin Zhen had a serious face as he was facing that man but a smile emerged as soon as he caught sight of Hyson waving at him. As for the man before him who was smiling at Lin Zhen until now, a coldness seeped into his eyes once he noticed the change in Lin Zhen''s mood once Hyson appeared.

 Chapter 904: [Bonus chapter] Disown

    Chapter 904: [Bonus chapter] Disown"What''s up with you?"

    Sora looked up at her best friend. Amiah was taken aback by the heavy sorrow in the air around Sora. She almost couldn''t breathe properly. What happened to make her best friend turn from sunshine to heatwave?

    "Mia, you''re here."

    "Yeah. I''m here," answered Amiah. "You called me here. Did you forget already? And how much did you drink already?" She looked at the bottles of beer on the table and furrowed her brows at Sora.

    "I only had one bottle," answered Sora.

    Amiah chuckled, "Of course, that''s already the best you can do."

    "Hey! I did not call you out to insult me like this!"

    Amiah nodded her head as she took off her zer and ced it on the chair beside her. She naturally picked up a bottle of beer and screwed open the cap. She took a sip and faced Sora, "So, what is this pity party for? I thought you called me because we''ll be going back to set in two days. But clearly, that''s not the case here."

    "Can you just silently apany me to drink?" asked Sora. "No questions. Be a goodpany and shut up! Let me drink. And when I''m drunk beyond my senses, just send me home safely. As a best friend, it''s your responsibility!"

    Amiah looked at her in disbelief and had to chug down the beer in her hand to swallow Sora''s words. What happened to the good girl Sora? Where did this cranky persone from?

    But she couldn''t evenin about it. Between the two of them, 99% of the time, she was the one being cranky. And Sora had to deal with her. So, for the rest of the 1%, she could bear this much for their friendship.

    "Mia," Sora started after some time. "Did you go home?"

    "I thought we weren''t gonna talk," Amiah pointed out.

    Sora gave her a disapproving look, "So, you didn''t go home? Is it that difficult to own up to your mistakes? You always had a lot of courage when you wanted to confront your father. Why don''t you have the courage now to face him? He is your father. Is it that hard to say sorry?"

    Amiah was silent in response for a long time as she ate peanuts and drank beer. After a long silence, she finally said out loud, "I feel like I don''t deserve the forgiveness."

    Sora snorted, "Did you just realize that? If I was your father, I''d have disowned a daughter like you a long time ago!"

    "That''s very helpful of you, best friend!" said Amiah. "Why don''t you disown me as a best friend?"

    Sora''s shoulders slumped, "You''re the only one who was willing to be friends with me back then. I''m not the kind of person who''d distance myself from her best friend just because my friend makes a mistake. I''d rather stick around you day after day to annoy you with the reminders of how dumb you''re to make such mistakes and hurt people who loved you so much."

    Amiah couldn''t even argue with her on that, "Right. I hurt everyone who loved me. You''re right. My dad should have disowned me. I don''t know why he didn''t do it."

    "Because he is a father," said Sora. "A father who really loves his daughter. If I had treated my dad like that, he''d have beaten me up by now a million times over."

    Amiah smiled bitterly. What was she supposed to say? Her father never even talked back to her. He never tried to exin himself and she kept thinking he was the wrong party and that''s why he was always willing to listen to whatever she said. But the truth really pped her in the face. He was just being considerate of his only daughter and couldn''t bear to be harsh on her while she was grieving her mother.

    In fact, he really gave in a lot to her. But she always took it for granted. She wasn''t the only one who lost a mother. Her brother lost his mother as well. Their father lost his wife as well.

    "I agree that you don''t deserve his forgiveness but you owe him that apology," said Sora. "Don''t be a scum! Go and apologize to him properly. Even if you have to get on your knees. Whether he forgives or not is up to him. But you can''t force him for forgiveness either. Stop being a jerk and stop running from everything. I know you''re hurt but that''s no reason to hurt everyone around you. You''re lucky I''m the submissive type and never thought about leaving you even with your bad temper."

    "Why do I feel like you''re extra tonight? Did the alcohol really give you a lot of courage?"

    Sora cleared her throat, "Even if it''s liquid courage, I have to take advantage of it to knock some sense into you. Stop distancing yourself from your family. Look at me, I can''t even think about not being able to talk to my brother. No, my sister-inw is even better than my brother. There are a lot of things that the brothers don''t understand. No matter how much he loves me, bro really can''t cross some lines. But that''s where my sister-inwes in. She is my biggest support. She is strong, resilient, generous, elegant, not intrusive, and the best of the world."

    "You should be praising your sister-inw in front of her face, not here with me," said Amiah.

    Sora looked at her and went on, "I didn''t like sister Qing when bro first introduced us. I thought she was older than my brother and my brother was too good for her. But that was me being childish. With time, she proved me wrong and made me realize that deep down, I really needed a sister like her in life."

    Amiah''s eyes shed as she asked, "Where are we going with this?"

    "Give your new sister-inw a chance. She might not be what you had in mind, but that doesn''t mean she isn''t the right choice for your brother."

 Chapter 905: Give Up

    Chapter 905: Give Up"Let''s not forget that the person who is gonna spend his life with her is your brother," added Sora as she huped. "You as a sister can share your opinions but you can''t force them upon your brother. No, that''s for everyone. You can''t force your ideas on others. For instance, you like your fried chicken with the ssic fried vor, I prefer it with sweet and spicy vor. Each to their own choices and tastes. I said it before and I''ll say it again, just because you don''t like her doesn''t mean she isn''t right for your brother."

    "I can''t believe you just used the example of chicken," stated Amiah as she picked up a chicken wing to eat. Drinking beer alone didn''t seem as tasteful to her right now. Besides, she didn''t feel like getting full on Sora''s criticism. "But you''re right. I don''t have the right to mess with my brother''s choices. Besides, he seemed very happy around her. I hadn''t seen him that happy in a long time."

    "It''s all about happiness," slurred Sora. She was really getting drunk already. She definitely didn''t have the talent for drinking. "Aren''t we all chasing happiness in life? He found his. What a lucky guy!"

    "He found this happiness before as well," Amiah pointed out to her.

    Sora gave her a look, "So what? He got hurt? That''s what you want to say? But who can guarantee that you''ll be happy forever? The point is, he is happy now. Who cares what tomorrow is gonna bring? Do you even know whether tomorrow is gonna be yours or not? Why bother with so much bullshit?!"

    Amiah tipped the beer bottle to take another sip as she continued to keep her eyes on Sora. In the end, she couldn''t help asking, "What''s really going on with you? Why do I feel like you''re not yourself tonight? Did something happen? Why do you look like you''re trying to drown your sorrow with alcohol?"

    She at least knew the habits of her best friend and Sora wasn''t someone who''de out to drink that often. Mostly, it''d be Amiah dragging her out to drink. It was very rare for Sora toe out to drink on her own.

    Sora didn''t look like she was nning on answering Amiah''s questions. She continued to drink carelessly but her eyes had lost their luster and anyone could see she was feeling blue.

    After an unknown amount of time, Sora broke the prolonged silence as she told her, "I''m saying goodbye to my first love."

    Amiah straightened up. She didn''t think Sora would answer but she also didn''t expect the answer to be something like this. But it made sense. Finally, she had the answer to why her best friend was behaving out of ordinary.

    "That''s not how you say goodbye to your first love," said Amiah. "You should stand before him and let him know before saying goodbye. But then again, you had been in love all on your own. It''d be weird if you suddenly went to say goodbye to him."

    Sora narrowed her eyes at her, "You''re making fun of me."

    Amiah shrugged, "I told you long ago that if you didn''t do anything about it, he''ll be gone. Just because you''re scared of expressing your feelings to him, doesn''t mean others would be scared like you. They''d take the chance and go all out." She didn''t look as sympathetic as Sora had expected. "While you''re busy hiding behind yourptop screen to create fictional words, he was living the real world. While you wrote about beautiful love in your books, he was experiencing it for himself. Do you expect him to wait for you to gather your courage when he didn''t even know what was on your mind?"

    "That''s not the reaction I wanted from my best friend," said Sora indignantly.

    Amiah looked straight at her, "Sora, dear Sora, you aren''t even all that sad. At most, he was your first crush because he was way too nice to you. You''re too used to guys treating you as a nerd and keeping a distance from the girl who wore big sses and braces. But your sister-inw''s brother ended up being kind to you. That kindness took root in your heart and you assumed it was love. Get over it. We aren''t even teenagers anymore. How can your idea of love be the same after so many years?"

    Sora red at her hatefully, "This is called giving respect to your first crush. So what if I don''t feel the same way about him? It still... It felt strange when I saw him so happily talking about his girlfriend."

    Amiah tapped her head, "Then don''t look like the world is ending. I can find you, someone, better as long as you''re willing to step out of your room and look elsewhere aside from yourputer screen."

    "Think about yourself first," retorted Sora. "Even after being a famous director, you couldn''t even take a handsome actor to your bed. Shame on you!"

    Amiah choked and coughed violently as she gave Sora a strange look. She wiped her mouth and said, "Are you for real? Am I that kind of a person?"

    "I''m just saying," said Sora. "It''s not like we''re getting younger. How about giving someone a chance?"

    Amiah''s mind wandered off when Sora mentioned that. She didn''t speak for a while.

    Sora observed her and said, "You really like, Yue Fai?"

    Amiah was startled by that question.

    Sora shook her head to clear up her thoughts and said seriously, "I''ll say, give up."

    "What? Why? Why can''t I date him? Because he is younger than me?"

    Sora waved her finger before Amiah, "Nope. But because he isn''t your cup of tea. You can''t handle him. As your best friend, it''s my job to warn you. Don''t walk on the road with a dead end."

    Amiah was feelingplicated when she heard that from Sora. She couldn''t understand why her best friend said it was a dead end.

    "Because he is close to my sister-inw?"

    Sora shook her head, "No. It has nothing to do with that. It''s purely because he is too much for you. From my interaction with him, I can tell you he isn''t all that he appears to be. You... Forget it. My job is just to remind you. The rest is still up to you and I know, you aren''t listening to me anyway. I''d rather not waste my breath."

 Chapter 906: [Bonus chapter] Enjoying

    Chapter 906: [Bonus chapter] EnjoyingWith Hyson''s one call, Lin Zhen abandoned the person he was talking to and walked away. He walked up to Hyson with a gentle smile filled with doting.

    "Fai, are you done with work?" asked Lin Zhen.

    Hyson nodded his head like an obedient kid, "Yup. I was about to go home. Was just looking for a ride."

    "Then how about I give you the ride?" suggested Lin Zhen. "I''m about to leave as well. I just have to collect my stuff from the recording studio."

    "Oh, I can wait," said Hyson. "I''m more than happy to get the free ride."

    Lin Zhen lifted his hand and rubbed his head, "I can tell how happy you are."

    Perhaps, anyone else didn''t notice but Hyson did. The moment Lin Zhen smiled at him, he began to feel a scorching gaze directed toward him. But the moment Lin Zhen rubbed his head affectionately, that gaze was ready to tear him apart. He found it so amusing that he was grinning from ear to ear.

    Lin Zhen thought something evil was cooking in his brain but he didn''t mind. He went to the recording studio and Hyson followed him. "Zhen Ge, are you working on an album?"

    Lin Zhen nodded his head, "Yes. But it''s not mine. Thepany is preparing to debut a new female singer. She is very talented. I''m working with her these days."

    Hyson understood. He didn''t think it was a shame for Lin Zhen to work behind the scenes since all of them knew that Lin Zhen''s passion was in producing rather than singing. It was good that he was finally receiving the opportunity to show his talented side.

    He helped collect music sheets and passed it to Lin Zhen who zipped up his bag and looked ready to leave. They went out together and found Lin Zhen''s car. Unlike Hyson who didn''t like driving, Lin Zhen always drove around himself. Well, little prince Hyson wasn''t a fan of driving.

    As they fastened their seatbelts, Hyson said, "Zhen Ge, you owe me a thanks."

    Lin Zhen''s hands paused when he heard that and heughed to himself as he nodded, "Of course, how can anything escape you eye." It''s not like he didn''t understand Hyson. He understood that Hyson purposely called out to him at that time. If nothing else, this little prince definitely noticed Lin Zhen''s emotions and helped him out of the pickle so naturally.

    But then again, that was something only Hyson would do. He shouldn''t even be surprised by that.

    "After doing this, you still ask me why I say you''re scary?"

    "I''m definitely cuter," was Hyson''s response.

    "Okay, so Mr. Cute, how should I thank you?"

    "How about baking me some cookies?" suggested Hyson.

    "How old are you?"

    "Why do all have to question my age? I only asked for cookies. No need to get so personal!"

    "Okay, I''ll get you those cookies," said Lin Zhen. "But... Won''t you ask what was going on when you came?"

    Hyson shrugged nonchntly, "If you feel like sharing, I''m all ears. But if you feel ufortable, I''ll pretend like I didn''t even see anything."

    During the ride, they didn''t talk much. Lin Zhen dropped him off at his home before he drove away. Hyson watched him leave before he went inside.

    Right when he stepped inside, he found Mu Chenyan begging for forgiveness. He raised his brow and rushed inside.

    Inside, Yue Yue was sitting with Grandfather Xiang while Mu Chenyan had to stand before them and ept her mistakes. But to be honest, she didn''t even know what she did wrong.

    "How dare you yell at Yue?" asked Grandfather Xiang unhappily while Yue Yue nodded along with him with an indignant expression.

    "I didn''t yell at her. I might have raised my voice without knowing it," said Mu Chenyan in her defense.

    "What''s going on here?"

    Mu Chenyan looked at Hyson and said, "Wle back, my little Fai."

    "Opa, what''s up? What did Yanyan do now?" He then looked at his own mother, "Mum, don''t tell me you''reining to Opa right now?"

    Yue Yue avoided her son''s eyes and pretended not to hear whatever he was saying. Hyson found it amusing.

    "How can it be calledining?" Grandfather Xiang looked at Mu Chenyan. "You said you''ll protect Yue. Is this the way to do things? Why did you make her cry?"

    "Her silence was getting on my nerve!" said Mu Chenyan. "So, I did raise my voice. I didn''t think she''ll cry. She didn''t even cry when she met..." She zipped her mouth right at that moment and looked at Hyson and decided not to continue. She didn''t want to share the experience of seeing Yue Yue''s birth parents.

    Because Yue Yue didn''t say anything to them, Mu Chenyan''s mood was in turmoil. So, she ended up kinda yelling at Yue Yue for acting weak. How would she know that the Yue Yue who didn''t even cry when her mother pointed at her would end up shedding tears so beautifully?

    Clearly, she was underestimating the value she had in Yue Yue''s heart. Otherwise, she wouldn''t be so confused right now.

    Yue Yue didn''t mind what others said. She had long grown out of that phase with the help of Mu Chenyan. But because it was Mu Chenyan who was her pir of support and courage, it hurt more when she raised her voice at her.

    So, seeing her reddened eyes when Grandfather Xiang questioned her, this scene happened. Yue Yue definitely wouldn''t say it out loud that currently, she was feeling really happy. Not because Mu Chenyan was getting a lecture but because of this beautiful family that she could call hers. Having Grandfather Xiang stand up for her was something very special. It meant she was protected.

    "Mum, you''re enjoying it way too much," Hyson pointed it out without hiding anything.

    Mu Chenyan also looked at Yue Yue and smiled to herself. How could she not see what even Hyson could see? She found it so amusing how her best friend was acting like a little kid who was indulging in the protection of her family.

    Hyson shook his head, "I say, Mum, the person Yanyan had been spoiling isn''t me. It''s you! You''re the one she spoiled the most."

    No one could argue with that. Not even Yue Yue so she lowered her head.

    Mu Chenyan chuckled, "Fai, go and freshen up. We''ll have dinner together."

    "Tsk. You''re being too obvious!"mented Hyson before he decided to let these elders be. They were ying their own game which had nothing to do with him. He''d rather go to his room and freshen up.

    When he went away, Grandfather Xiang asked, "Chenyan, don''t you have something to say to Ah-Yue?"

    Mu Chenyan went over and crouched down before Yue Yue saying, "Yue, sorry! It''s my fault for raising my voice. I should consider how your heart is fragile. I''m sorry. I won''t do it again."

    Grandfather Xiang flicked her forehead, "Don''t just say it. As the younger sister, you should respect your older sister."

    "I''m the older one here!" insisted Mu Chenyan.

    "Only the kids would fall for that," said Grandfather Xiang.

    Yue Yue chuckled to herself silently and her eyes which were reddened from crying were sparkling now. Both Mu Chenyan and Grandfather Xiang breathed a sigh of relief seeing that.

 Chapter 907: Go Home

    Chapter 907: Go HomeFrom the early morning, Raelle was looking at her husband busying himself with packing up. Well, he was supposed to do itst night but the siren of his life entangled him and he couldn''t do anything else. Sigh! He couldn''t evenin since he loved that siren way too much.

    "Baby, do you think I''m forgetting anything?" he asked.

    Raelle replied, "You''ve asked the same question for the third time in half an hour."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and couldn''t say anything since it seemed she was right. So, he lowered his head and thought about it again.

    Raelle didn''t even know why he was tiring himself. Why did Master Xian always seem to forget that he had plenty of people working for him? Did he have to do all of this himself? And when she asked him this question, he''d say, ''What''s wrong with doing things for my own wife? Why should I ask others to take care of my wife when I can do it myself?''

    Of course, she couldn''t argue with that. Even she understood that most women would be very happy to hear that response from their husbands. But she only understood it more after staying in the hospital and hearing how the nurses gushed over her husband. She might have taken her husband for granted all this while.

    She needed to reflect on her behavior from now on.

    "Okay, we''re all set," said Shui Xian. "Let''s go home now," he offered his hand to her. Seeing her wearing a sundress, he was feeling very happy. For no other reason than that he didn''t like that hospital wear on her. It only reminded him of what she went through. So, this was good. Now, she could wear colorful clothes and just be herself.

    Raelle noticed the obvious happiness in his eyes and silently took his hand.

    Shui Xian''s eyes were filled with brilliance once he held her hand in his own. It was just their thing now. Holding hands. He felt like he was happiest when he held her hand in his own. She''d always hold his hand without any hesitation and it almost felt like she''d never let go. This assurance really made him feel intoxicated.

    As they were leaving, Raelle noticed a little boy looking at them from a distance. He held a few chrysanthemum flowers in his hands. It was none other than Justin.

    Of course, Shui Xian also noticed his presence and felt veryplicated. This little boy just loved bringing flowers to his wife but he couldn''t do anything about it since Raelle didn''t mind. It''s not like he minded all that much either. At first, he might have been a bit prejudiced since Justin was Tang Hebe''s son but during Justin''s interactions with Raelle, he understood why Raelle was willing to interact with this young boy.

    The only reason he was feelingplicated was that Justin wouldn''t give him a good face but his eyes would sparkle once set on Raelle. He never answered him but would talk until his mouth went dry with Raelle. This was clearly Justin showing his obvious dislike for him and Shui Xian couldn''t understand it. He didn''t think he was so unpopr with kids.

    "Leaving?" asked Justin in his sweet voice.

    Raelle crouched down before him and nodded, "I''m going home. Don''t have to stay in hospital anymore."

    Justin nodded his head. He understood that since she was leaving it meant she had recovered but understanding it was one thing. He was still sad to know that he won''t be seeing her every day.

    Raelle seemed to understand what was on his mind, she pointed at the flowers and asked, "These are for me?"

    Justin nodded again and offered the chrysanthemum to her, "I picked it."

    "Thank you!" said Raelle to him. "I''ll buy you a gift in return the next time we meet, okay?"

    "No gift," he said.

    "How is that possible?" asked Raelle. "You bring flowers since you like giving them to me. I buy gifts because I like giving gifts. If no gifts, then I won''t take flowers next time."

    Justin blinked his big eyes at her. Sending her flowers was his way of icebreaking with her. It was a form of conversation that he thought only she understood and it meant a lot to this little boy who had yet to understand theplexities of life.

    In the end, he agreed, "Gift. I''ll take it. You take flowers."

    Raelle nodded in agreement, "Okay."

    Shui Xian observed their conversation once again attentively. Actually, he heard that Justin was autistic but Shui Xian believed that wasn''t the case. He might not be articte or as hyperactive as most kids his age, he was still sensible. And most importantly, he was very particr about who he wanted to interact with.

    Perhaps, he noticed that Shui Xian didn''t like him when they first met so he didn''t like him back. But with Raelle, it was different. She could understand him in a strange way. But the biggest reason was, he was also a face-con. Although Shui Xian would say he was handsome, he''d also pick his wife as more attractive one between the two of them. So, he didn''t me Justin''s choice at all.

    Who asked him to be a wife-ve? He was more than happy knowing that someone appreciated his wife.

    "I''lle to see you again," said Raelle.

    "Okay," said Justin. He thought about it before adding, "Don''t get hurt."

    "I''ll try my best," responded Raelle.

    Justin waved at her and she waved him goodbye as well. Standing up, she said to Shui Xian, "Let''s go."

    Shui Xian nced once more at Justin before they strode away with four bodyguards following them. These had been around since she was in the hospital and would definitely not leave Raelle out of their sight. They just tried to make their presence minimal. It was only now that they looked high profile while carrying Raelle''s stuff with them.

 Chapter 908: [Bonus chapter] Trip

    Chapter 908: [Bonus chapter] Trip"Are we going straight home?" asked Raelle as they got inside the car.

    Shui Xian looked over at her and nodded, "Where else do you want to go? I''m not taking you to thepany."

    "I didn''t even say anything about that," said Raelle. "You said, we''ll go to the temple once I''m discharged from the hospital."

    Of course, Shui Xian remembered that very well. How could he forget what he said to her? He should have kept in mind that she won''t forget it either.

    Shui Xian looked over at her, his brows raising ever so slightly, "I thought you''d want to go home first."

    Raelle didn''t think much about it, "It''s all the same. I don''t mind going to the temple first. You said it, so you should keep your word."

    Shui Xian lowered his gaze. "Okay, let''s go then. It''ll be a long ride. Are you okay with that? How about you lie down? I''ll drive slowly?"

    "You can call for a driver," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian shook his head, "No, I''ll drive myself. You pull the seat back and rx. Although I know you don''t take naps, I''ll still suggest you try. I''ll wake you up once we are there."

    Raelle knew she won''t be able to sleep but she still closed her eyes to try. There was silence in the car. Shui Xian would nce at her sleeping face from his peripheral vision every other minute. He could see she wasn''t able to sleep. It seemed she was really recovering so her body was going back to her usual routine of not taking naps.

    When she was at the hospital, she''d still often end up sleeping during the day. Well, sleep was a way to recover the body so he thought it was a good thing.

    It was apletely impromptu trip to the temple so they didn''t prepare anything. It was gonna take over three hours to drive to the temple. It was quite some distance from the bustling city.

    Raelle suddenly sat up and fixed her seat saying, "Couldn''t sleep."

    Shui Xian chuckled, "I know. Wife, you''ve worked hard. Trying to sleep when I told you."

    Raelle didn''t say anything in response. What was she to say? Tell him that she could see how he had been on his toes while she was at the hospital. He kept worrying about her and running around trying to make herfortable at the hospital. She wasn''t blind. No, she even saw more than most people. So, she took in everything that Shui Xian did during this time.

    She already listened to him but now, she felt like if by listening to him more, he''ll feel morefortable, she was okay with it.

    "It''s not like you,"mented Shui Xian.

    "What??"

    "Following everything I say," he added.

    "Wasn''t I always an obedient person?" she asked.

    "No, it''s different this time around," he pointed it out. "I might not be as smart as you are. But I''m your husband. We share the same pillow at night. How can I not understand you that much?"

    "Stop worrying about me at the expense of your health and I''ll go back to being how I was," she replied without trying to squirm her way out of this discussion.

    "Wife, I understand now why you were called an obedient child," said Shui Xian. "Seeing Grandfather and Yanyan fussing over you and worrying to the point of ruining their own health must have been difficult, eh? So, you decided to follow whatever they said just so they could be at peace."

    "I was young and thought that was all I could for the care they offered to me. I could try to be obedient and never let them worry about me. With time, the habit just sunk deep into my bones. But it''s not like I''m blindly following their leads."

    "Of course, not. You''d only follow what seems reasonable and eptable to you."

    "Exactly!"

    Raelle was looking at the greenery around them and the winding paths ahead when she heard him ask, "Should we take a break? To eat something or rest?"

    "No," replied Raelle. "Just keep driving."

    "Okay," agreed Shui Xian and continued to move forward. "By the way, I''ve been meaning to ask you. What did you do to Tang Hebe? Why did I feel like she is kinda traumatized by you?"

    Raelle thought about it, "I don''t think I did anything wrong."

    Shui Xian chuckled. Even if she didn''t think she did anything wrong, it didn''t mean she didn''t do something to scare the other person.

    "Still, what did you do?"

    "Nothing. I just made her realize that she is a coward," replied Raelle.

    Shui Xian''s brows raised up when he heard that. He hummed in response but didn''t say anything. There was nothing to say at all. If Raelle said Tang Hebe was a coward then she was. Besides, even Shui Xian knew by now what Tang Hebe was.

    "Oh, and she is a very insecure person," added Raelle. "I''m not sure if I should me her for that or not. Hyson said the way people are nurtured ys a significant role in shaping their personality."

    "You and Fai have very interesting topics,"mented Shui Xian. Right at that time, Raelle''s phone rang and the called id made Shui Xian shake his head, "Oh, speak of the devil, and the devil appears."

    Raelle picked up the call.

    "Do you know that most of our happy hormones have more to do with our guts than our brain? No wonder people feel happier after eating food. Also, that''s why they say to capture a man''s heart, you need to walk through his stomach." He was babbling on and on about it with interest without any break. He didn''t even allow Raelle to speak for a second. It was like he just called her to listen to him. But that seemed to be true as well. He really might have just called to share his new discovery which no one else was willing to listen to.

 Chapter 909: For Our Child

    Chapter 909: For Our ChildShui Xian''s lips curled up when he also listened to Hyson''s voice spreading in the car because Raelle had put the phone on speaker. He couldn''t help shaking his head as he thought that he was right. These two really had all sorts of topics to discuss but one would never get bored sitting with them.

    Just listening to these two could put someone in a good mood. And that someone included him who was certainly enjoying himself right now.

    "Approximately, 50% of dopamine is produced in the guts. And although serotonin is said to be a brain neurotransmitter, it is estimated that 90% of it is actually made in the digestive tract meaning in your guts! Do you get what I''m saying here? It means that the butterflies that we feel in our stomach are actually because of this link between our brain and guts."

    Raelle silently listened to him and Shui Xian felt like her always nk face had actually softened up a little at this time unknowingly. That showed that no matter how annoying Hyson was, Raelle could still listen to him for hours.

    "Why aren''t you saying anything? Don''t you want to add something to my new discovery?"

    "I was waiting for you to finish," said Raelle. "By the way, didn''t you already know that our guts are also called ''the second brain'' of our body?"

    "I think I heard that before," Hyson rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "But I didn''t think about it so seriously. Today, I ended up reading this new research. I must say, it caught my attention."

    "Fai!"

    "Xian Ge? What''s up?"

    "You talked about butterflies in your stomach, so I''m wondering. Have you ever even experienced that feeling?" asked Shui Xian curiously. He was genuinely interested in learning the answer to this question.

    Hyson pressed his lips together and sniffled before saying, "No, I have read about it and heard about it from people around me."

    "I believe those people around you who shared that experience don''t include my wife."

    Hyson cleared his throat, "She is with you. You can ask for yourself." He took a brief pause before asking, "Ellie, you give him the answer."

    "Never felt it," answered Raelle. "What about you husband?"

    "Oh, I always feel butterflies in my stomach when I''m around you. No, it''s a whole zoo in my stomach."

    Raelle looked at his body and blinked thoughtfully.

    "That''s metaphorical," added Shui Xian noticing her gaze.

    While Hyson chuckled on the phone, Raelle answered, "I know."

    "Where are you both? Why do I feel like you''re not at the hospital?" asked Hyson.

    "We''re going to the temple," answered Raelle.

    Hyson went quiet for a moment before asking, "You got discharged?"

    "Hmm..." Raelle hummed in response.

    "And you didn''t invite me to join you both?"

    "Why would I do that?" asked Raelle.

    Hyson rolled his eyes but obviously, they couldn''t see it. "It''s not like I was gonna y the third wheel between your two people world. Can''t I just go to the temple for the same reason as you guys?"

    "And why are we going to the temple?" asked Raelle.

    "To pray for..." Hyson didn''t continue. "Anyway, my mum says it''s good to ask for some merits in life."

    "If you listened to Yue, you''d have long followed her to temples," said Raelle.

    "Everyone has their calling," retorted Hyson. "Haven''t you heard it? Heaven calls you to its door when it wants you at its door."

    "I think you''re making things up," said Raelle.

    "Whatever, send me the location. I''ll follow." With that, he hung up the call leaving Raelle staring at the phone screen.

    "He hung up on you," Shui Xian pointed out when he noticed how Raelle was still staring at the phone. "He doesn''t hang up on you usually."

    "It''s mostly me who hangs up on him," replied Raelle. She turned to face him and told him, "He''s gonna follow us."

    Shui Xian smiled, "I can tell."

    After a long drive, they finally arrived at the temple. As they alighted from the car, Raelle looked at the long flight of stairs before her that went up the mountain. This ce was not only far from the city but also seemed to be a very secluded ce. At this time of the day, the sun was the hottest and it definitely didn''t seem the ideal time to ascend the stairs.

    Shui Xian parked the car under the shade of trees and the bodyguards'' cars also followed suit. But they kept a distance from the couple to provide them with privacy.

    "How about we rest here first and climb up when the sun goes down a little?" suggested Shui Xian. He helped her to sit down on the stone bench and asked, "How are you feeling? You''ve been sitting for so long? Is anything ufortable?"

    Raelle held his hand and shook her head, "No. Everything is fine." She looked towards the long flight of stairs that led up the mountain towards the temple that seemed to be hidden between the tall but green trees. "I think there is enough share of the trees," she pointed out. "We can just start climbing now. It''ll take some time to get up there."

    Shui Xian also knew this problem. He hesitated for a while and got a bottle of water for Raelle first, "You drink some water first. And can you climb? I think it''s too tiring. Let''s not do it today. You just got discharged. Your health is more important."

    "We''re already here."

    "Then, how about I carry you up there?" suggested Shui Xian.

    "No," replied Raelle as she stood up. "I can still walk this much. I haven''t done exercise in days. It''s a good way to get back on track. Besides, this walk is for a good cause. I''m doing it for our child. I have no right to give up, back out here, or say that I''m tired."

    Shui Xian''s heart squeezed a little when she said that. He hugged her shoulders and felt like her shoulders were boney now. There wasn''t as much flesh as before. Of course, 3 points he was right, and 7 points, it was his illusion.

 Chapter 910: [Bonus chapter] Temple

    Chapter 910: [Bonus chapter] TempleBoth of them started to climb up with a trail of people following them. Along the way, as Raelle had said, the trees provided enough shade and even blocked some heat for them. But it still wasn''t enough. By the time they climbed all the way up, they were all sweating profusely. Through this climbing, Raelle managed to understand the condition of her body.

    Well, it had to be said, it wasn''t doing well considering how she was feeling breathless from just this much. Of course, she didn''t say it out loud.

    Along the way, she could hear the chirping of the birds echoing the silence of the mountain but once they appeared in the temple space, everything was quiet. It was a sacred ce of worship, it wasn''t surprising that it was so peaceful here. But this silence in the air gave a very tranquil feeling.

    Temples had always been a ce full of history, intrigue, impressive architecture, and carved relief. And this was no different. Raelle had seen some temples from afar that was known as tourist attractions and those ces were always crowded with people. And maybe that was one of the reasons, she didn''t go to such sites while traveling around the Continent.

    But this ce was certainly different from what she expected. This didn''t seem to be a tourist attraction, but then again, it was hidden in such a secluded ce, that it wasn''t all that surprising. So, it meant this was indeed just a ce of worship.

    Taking off their shoes at the designated ces, they went inside the temple. A monk greeted them with his hands held together in front of him.

    Everything was quite new to the newbie Raelle here so she just followed her husband to do what he did. Like greeting the monks, burning the incense, and kneeling to pray.

    To be honest, Raelle''s mind nks as she held up her hands to pray. She had never been this lost for words. She had never even prayed before. She never felt the need to. She didn''t think there was anything in her life that she needed to pray for. She always worked for what she wanted and didn''t wait for some miraculous help from above.

    So, it wasn''t surprising that right now, she didn''t know what to say or ask for.

    She looked at Shui Xian who had his eyes closed and seemed to be praying earnestly. Then her eyes wandered around and fell on another figure who sat behind in a far corner. The only reason she paid attention to that figure was that he didn''t look like a monk. He was the only person apart from the monks of the temple here.

    And currently, he kneeled there and held a brush in his hand as he wrote something on the paper. With his back straight, his eyes focused on the sheet of paper, he looked very serious. As Raelle''s eyes lingered on that figure, that person raised his head and caught her eyes.

    Raelle didn''t look away and met his green eyes. The person offered her a smile before he went back to writing. Raelle turned her head back and closed her eyes.

    Hmmm... Let''s think about it. What did shee here for?

    Ah! She came to pray for her child.

    So, her prayer started something like this:

    ''I don''t know how to begin. I have nothing to ask for myself. As always. I still believe I''m capable of getting whatever I want in life. I''m more than capable. But I realized, that not everything is under my control. Even if I want to control everything. Some things can''t be controlled. Of course, I understood this point before as well but this time, it hit very close. This time, I experienced it myself by losing our child. I, Raelle Xiang who thought she was invincible, couldn''t even protect her own child.

    I hope, our child doesn''t think I''m an irresponsible mother and refuse toe back to us. But I also hope where our child is now, he knows that his parents really wanted to protect him. I hope he is in a better ce now.''

    She opened her eyes and looked over at Shui Xian as she silently mumbled, ''And I really hope that my husband is able to leave behind the bitter things in life. I might not be good at it but I can tell he is hurting. Probably, way more than me. So, I really hope, he is able to grow out of this pain and look forward. I know he is trying and I know it''ll take time as well. I just want you to help in easing his pain.''

    Shui Xian opened his eyes at that moment and turned to see her looking back at him. His eyes softened and he smiled at her.

    At that very moment, Raelle really wanted to smile back at him. And she did lift up her lips. It only lifted slightly into an arc. It was almost inconspicuous but to Shui Xian who always had his eyes on her face and was more familiar with her expressions than even she was, he could see it very clearly.

    So clearly that his heart thudded.

    It wasn''t even a proper smile but he knew it came from her heart. She wasn''t just doing it for formality, she really wanted to offer him a smile right now. His eyes moistened a bit and lowered his head to hide it.

    He looked back at the statue before him in disbelief. Just now, he wished to see his family smile. He wanted to see her smile. And he hadn''t even stood up before he was able to see a sign that his prayer had reached somewhere. He didn''t know how to feel about this.

    His mother once said, ''The prayer from the sincerest heart is always returned.''

    It seemed she was right. And his sincerest prayer did reach heaven and he was able to see the smile on his wife''s face even if it was just a shadow of it. It was enough to keep him up for days.

 Chapter 911: Gold & Pearls

    Chapter 911: Gold & PearlsRight now, Shui Xian wanted to pull her into his arms and kiss her deeply. But he couldn''t do it. This was not the ce for that. He had to be respectful.

    It was just a ghost of a smile and his heart was already about to jump out of his chest. What would he do if she really smiled at him one day? He''d probably not be able to recognize east from west.

    Seeing a monk entering the temple, Shui Xian stood up and Raelle followed him. Although she didn''t know why they were standing right now. Once the monk was done prostrating, Shui Xian whispered to Raelle, "You can go outside if you want. I''ll talk to the Abbot." He didn''t want her to kneel with him for a long time. So, he kneeled down again.

    Shui Xian was the one who spoke to the monk talking about performing a ritual to pray for the dead. The monk who had a gentle and kind look calcted something on his fingers before saying, "Benefactor, the auspicious hour has passed today. Why don''t you stay tonight? We''ll do the ritual tomorrow before dawn."

    Shui Xian bowed his head saying, "We''ll listen to Abbot."

    He turned around and found that Raelle didn''t actually leave. She stood close to the door but her eyes were set on that figure who attentively wrote with a brush. Shui Xian walked up to her.

    Seeing hime, she asked, "What is he doing?" Although she couldn''t tell what that person was doing, she was able to see the writing from her position. Each stroke of the brush was clean and pleasing to the eye.

    When her grandfather taught her calligraphy, he told Raelle that each person''s writing script showed their personality and their thoughts. But right now, Raelle wasn''t able to tell. Although the script she saw seemed clean and it made people feel like the person who wrote it was a calm person. She wasn''t willing to believe it.

    Earlier when her eyes met those green eyes, she saw mischief in those eyes. She was able to recognize that twinkle because she often found it in Hyson''s eyes.

    Shui Xian looked over and told Raelle, "He is copying the scriptures." Seeing how his wife was interested, he added, "Copying the scriptures is a practice that hones a person''s temperament. It allows your heart to settle down and feel at ease."

    "It does?" asked Raelle.

    "That''s what I heard," he replied.

    Raelle knew it wasn''t nice to stare at people, so she went out with Shui Xian who told her, "It seems we''ll have to stay here tonight. Will that be okay?" Raelle looked at him as he exined, "The auspicious hour to perform the ritual is before dawn tomorrow. Going back now is pointless. So, I thought we can stay here?"

    "Okay," Raelle agreed without another word.

    "Are you hungry?" he asked. "We didn''t even eat lunch on time today. Let me see what we can find here."

    Raelle stopped him and called out, "One of you go and see what we can eat."

    "Yes, Missy!" One of the bodyguards replied and went away.

    Thinking of something, she asked, "Hubby, why did we stand up when the monk came in?"

    Shui Xian smiled gently at her and answered her question, "It''s a form of respect. Monks and nuns are the most respectful people in the temple. It''s like when you enter a boardroom, your subordinates will get up to greet you to show respect. It''s kinda the same thing."

    "Oh..." Raelle asked a bunch of questions and Shui Xian patiently answered each and every question and solved her queries without any rush. He didn''t think she was ignorant. If anything, for once, he felt knowledgable since there was something she didn''t know about. So, he could just enjoy this rare moment where he really could help her out with something.

    They only stopped when the bodyguard came back and led them to a cafeteria where visitors usually ate. But the dishes were all vegetarian since it was a temple.

    Looking at the nd dishes before them, Shui Xian looked at Raelle and said, "The food here is just like this. They don''t eat dishes with a strong taste. Also, meat is definitely not allowed here. So, I have to wrong you today. But trust me, it''s delicious. My mom used to say that the vegetarian dishes at the temple are too good. Even better than meat dishes."

    Of course, he didn''t add the fact that he didn''t believe in what his mother used to say. Now, he was using the same words on his wife.

    Raelle didn''tin. It wasn''t like her anyway. Once she picked up the wooden chopsticks, she even stopped talking as well and silently ate the vegetarian dishes before her. She didn''t think there was anything toin about here. There was food and it was filling. What more could one ask for?

    Shui Xian sighed mentally when he saw her eating. He already knew she had nothing to say about food but he still thought it was her first time having such a ''shabby'' meal so she might have something to say. But he was wrong. She really had no problem at all in enjoying the meal.

    It wasn''t lunchtime so they were the only people there. It couldn''t even be counted as lunch anymore. After they were done eating, Shui Xian said, "This must be the most humble meal in my wife''s life."

    "Not really," replied Raelle. "Do you also think that I was fed gold and pearls all my life?"

    "What?"

    "Most people really thought that," she told him. "But that''s really not true. However, this isn''t the most humble meal I''ve had in my life. I have had time when I didn''t even get to eat some humble vegetables."

    She didn''t even have to exin. Shui Xian understood it already very well. How could he forget that?

 Chapter 912: [Bonus chapter] Unique

    Chapter 912: [Bonus chapter] UniqueRaelle didn''t like talking about the hard times so most people easily forgot. Even Shui Xian momentarily forgot that she didn''t have smooth sailing in life. Yes, Mu Chenyan and Grandfather Xiang must have done everything to feed her all the treasures of mountains and seas. But some things weren''t in their control.

    Like the time she was kidnapped.

    During those times, what did she eat? Or did she eat at all or not? Anyone with a brain could know the answer to those questions. How could kidnappers be kind enough to offer a proper meal?

    So, she was right. This wasn''t the most humble meal of her life. It was at least a proper meal made with care. She wasn''t treated as an animal and was thrown some dry food to munch on.

    If Shui Xian thought about it seriously, it was actually the humblest meal of his own life. He also grew up in a loving family. No matter what, his mother would always try to feed him meals filled with love. Even when he married Tang Hebe and she didn''t know how to cook, Shui Xian could cook himself and never really wronged himself.

    It was only during these past few years that he became careless with his meals because he was busy with work. But even when he ate one meal a day, it was a sumptuous meal.

    "Shall we walk around?" asked Shui Xian. "I heard the scenery here is beautiful. So, we can see since we are already here and there is nothing else to do here anyway."

    "Okay," Raelle agreed.

    As they walked on the stone pathway, Raelle''s eyes were looking around trying to take in everything around her which seemed new to her curious eyes. It was a ce filled with history and the architecture certainly took one on a journey to the past. And Raelle seemed to be interested in this architecture that was unique to this ce.

    Every temple had its own uniqueness based on which time period or dynasty it was built in, and this one certainly had its own as well.

    They weren''t the only people at the temple. Although the ce wasn''t crowded it certainly had visitors who were also walking around at this time. Earlier the sun was too high so they must have been resting but once the sun started going down, they came out as well.

    But everyone was talking in a hush and didn''t disturb others'' peace at all.

    Looking at something, Raelle asked, "Hubby, what do you think peoplee here looking for?"

    "Huh?"

    "Just asking. What do you think?"

    "It''s the same thing we are looking for," he answered. "The peace of mind. I don''t know if our prayers will work or not. I don''t know if our child heard how much we miss him or not. But it''s our way of finding peace. In this way, our mind can remember that at least, we tried. At least, we did our best." As the sun was going down and the temperature was also lowering, the refreshing breeze started blowing making everyone feel cool. Shui Xian also took a deep breath in this cool breeze and added, "We alle here as desperate beings looking for sce. Some of these visitors are here to pray for the long life of their sick family. Some are here to pray for sess in an interview. Others might be here to pray for sess in their love. But in fact, all of us are looking for peace of mind. Not everything is granted with prayers, you have to make effort for it. But prayers are not that useless either because miracles do happen and they happen when a man''s desperate cry reaches the sky."

    "Is that so..." Raelle responded. "What do you feel aftering here? Don''t they say such ces are spiritual? What do you think?"

    "Hmm... The ambiance here is certainly different. It''s quiet, peaceful, and calming. Away from the bustling city, one can just forget everything and get lost in this tranquility. It''s like an escape to another world where no worries are following you. But it''s also like an illusion. Because once you walk out of here, this peacefulness will break and you''ll have to face the reality once more."

    Raelle nodded her head in agreement.

    After a while, they arrived at a fish pond beside a stone pavilion with intricate carvings. Raelle stood beside the clear pond and looked at the fishes swimming around happily. There were plenty of fish in the pond of a different varieties. She even found a koi fish and pointed out, "Look, your favorite fish is here."

    Shui Xian looked at where she was pointing and his ears turned red in embarrassment, "I don''t think kois are lucky anymore. I''m not that superstitious anymore."

    "You don''t sound believable," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian rubbed her head, "You''re not supposed to make fun of your husband."

    "I wasn''t," she said. "Tell me something I don''t know about Kois."

    "Mm... It''s said that once a koi jumps over the dragon gate, they can be a dragon."

    "That''s just a mystical legend," she said. "No proof avable."

    "I''m not telling anymore," said Shui Xian and decided not to share these unfounded legends with her. She needed proof for everything. Or else, she won''t be convinced at all.

    Suddenly, Shui Xian''s phone buzzed and he pulled it out to check. It was a text message and after reading it, he went quiet. Raelle looked at his somber face and asked, "Is everything alright?"

    Shui Xian hummed, "Everything is fine. It''s just Amiah."

    "What did she say? Is she finally going home to see B¨¤?"

    Shui Xian thought he shouldn''t even be surprised that she figured it out on her own. So, he nodded, "Yes, she said she is going home tonight to see B¨¤. I''m just worried that I''m not there. What if she said something again? She has no control over her mouth anyway."

 Chapter 913: Flame Ghost

    Chapter 913: me GhostShui Xian didn''t even have to think to know what his father''s reaction would be. Shui Koshing had been yearning to see his daughter at home for years. Of course, he''d be happy but Shui Xian wondered if the painful words exchanged between the two over the years would be forgotten. He didn''t think it was that easy.

    "What''s your thought about this?" asked Shui Xian.

    "Me? It''s not my ce to put forward my opinion. As long as she can treat B¨¤ with sincerity, I have nothing to say about her."

    Shui Xian pressed his lips together and sighed softly.

    "Husband, can we do fishing here?"

    Shui Xian coughed when he heard that question and shook his head like a rattle, "No, darling that''s not allowed. You can feed these fishes but the fish can''t be your food."

    "No? Why?"

    "It''s a temple. Every life is important no matter how small and insignificant it seems," said Shui Xian. "When we were climbing up, do you remember seeing a couple of young monks sweeping the stairs?"

    Raelle nodded her head.

    "They weren''t actually cleaning the stairs. Their purpose is to pick up small insects so that no one would step on them. Do you get what I''m saying?"

    Raelle nodded again, "You have to cherish every life. Theirs are as precious as yours. That''s the concept, right? So killing is not allowed here."

    Shui Xian rubbed her head dotingly, "Indeed. In ancient times, when people used to freely hunt, it was not allowed to hunt in these mountains because of the temple''s protection." He took a pause and said, "I''m gonna discuss something with the Abbot about the ceremony tomorrow morning. And while I''m at it, I''ll arrange for our stay here tonight."

    "Okay," replied Raelle.

    "You look around here," said Shui Xian and left to get his things done.

    Raelle slowly walked around while observing her surroundings. She could hear the chirping of birdsing from the forest that surrounded the temple. Walking around, she saw a cherry blossom forest. But sadly, it was already summer so cherry blossom blooming season was already over.

    However, Raelle could tell that this ce must look gorgeous once the cherry blossoms were in full bloom. She looked at the wildflowers scattered around adding another kind of beauty to this aged ce.

    Suddenly, something caught her eye and she walked over slowly. It was a small nt. There was only one single flower slowly blooming on it. It looked like the lilies. But on closer inspection, Raelle could tell it wasn''t a lily. The petals were almost transparent. Raelle found it very interesting and couldn''t help extending her hand to touch it.

    "Stop!"

    Raelle''s hand was about to touch the flower but stopped after hearing that voice. She looked over. She saw the guy who had been copying scriptures inside earlier walking towards her. Dressed in all ck, his green eyes were even more prominent.

    But the aura around that figure was too strong and deadly. It prompted Raelle''s bodyguards to stand in the way and diligently try to keep the neer away from their Missy.

    However, Raelle watched with her own eyes as the guy barely even moved but subdued her team of bodyguards. That guy didn''t attack her team. Only, somehow he stopped them from moving.

    Raelle looked up to meet those green eyes. If Hyson was here, he''d recognize this person easily since he met the same person at the bar the other night. It was none other than the person who introduced himself as Young Master Ru to him at that time.

    "Your fighting style is simr to Hawk Mercenaries," stated Young Master Ru in a charming voice. Then he looked up at Raelle and smirked, "Very interesting."

    "Are they okay?" asked Raelle.

    Ru shrugged indifferently, "Rx. They''ll be able to move in fifteen minutes. Who asked them to attack me without understanding the situation? Do I look like a man-eater?" Running those slender fingers through his short hair, he added, "This young master is so handsome and so cultured. Do I look like a bad guy? This young master can even put good guys to shame. If you have no use for those eyes, you can donate them."

    Raelle didn''t say anything once she heard that her team of bodyguards were fine. She couldn''t stand on the higher ground right now since it was indeed her bodyguards who tried to attack without knowing the situation but at the same time, she couldn''t me them either. They were also under a lot of pressure since herst ident. They couldn''t afford another mistake at a time like this.

    Knowing that Raelle didn''t say anything. She watched Ru walking over to her.

    "Did you touch that?" asked Ru as he pointed at the flower that Raelle was interested in.

    "Is it private property? I didn''t know, I''m sorry," Raelle epted her mistake without trying to shirk any responsibility. "Also, I apologize for my bodyguards'' rude behavior. They had been on edgetely."

    Ru waved off his hand and said, "I don''t need all that. I just want to know whether you touched it or not. It''s an important question."

    Raelle replied, "I think I didn''t."

    "You think?" Ru asked in disbelief.

    "I stopped when I heard your voice but when my bodyguards came, I moved abruptly. At that moment, my hand did touch something but I''m not certain if it was that flower or not. Why is that question important though?"

    Ru was silent for a moment as this young master closely inspected Raelle''s face.

    "It''s rude to stare at people," reminded Raelle. Even though she could tell there wasn''t any frivolousness or curiosity in those green orbs. She still didn''t understand what was the other person looking for exactly.

    "Oh, This young master is willing to apologize for being so presumptuous. However, if I don''t stare, I''ll have to ask you to let me check your pulse. Wouldn''t that be even more presumptuous of me?"

    Raelle blinked and didn''t respond for a moment. "What''s going on?"

    "That flower is dangerous," said young master Ru. "It''s poisonous. Just a mere touch can be deadly to people." Then he looked around and frowned, "I definitely left someone to keep an eye over here. You shouldn''t even be in this part of the temple."

    "I was just walking aimlessly," replied Raelle. "But is it really poisonous? I have never seen this flower before. It looks very interesting."

    Ru was silent again with a thoughtful expression. Perhaps finding the genuine interest in the woman''s eyes before her, Ru decided to share.

    "Of course, you haven''t. It took me 2 years to cultivate this baby," said young master Ru. "Only this tough little guy survived after endless torture. This is called me Ghost. Now, you must be wondering what''s up with that name, right? The ghost part refers to the fact that its petals be almost transparent under the sun. But under the moon, they give off a faint bluish glow and that''s why the me part is added to the name."

    "Sounds interesting," said Raelle. "But if it''s poisonous, why are you cultivating it?"

    "This young master doesn''t have to answer that question."

    "I''ll let you take my pulse to be certain whether I''m poisoned or not," replied Ralele.

    Ru''s smirk was even more prominent, "Even if you''re poisoned, it doesn''t concern me. Why do you think you hold the bargaining chip here?"

    "Because you don''t want an innocent person to get hurt because of your carelessness," said Raelle with certainty. In fact, she wasn''t certain. She only assumed it because Ru tried to stop her from touching it earlier.

    But it seemed she was right. As Ru rubbed his nose and said, "Although the petals are poisonous, the stem holds life-saving properties. In fact, the whole nt is a treasure that had been extinct for far too long. It took me so much research to get it to live. And this baby is precious and delicate. Very picky as well. For some reason, it likes the soil here. I can''t grow it anywhere else." Of course, he didn''t go into further details but this much was enough for Raelle for now.

    "So, that''s how it is," said Raelle.

    "Now, can I take your pulse," asked young master Ru. "Any dy won''t be good for your health."

    Raelle hesitated because even though she said it earlier, she obviously wasn''tfortable with a stranger touching her. Physical contact was still a big no as always. As if seeing her worries, Ru took out a silk handkerchief and said, "It''s not good to touch ady''s hand. I''ll use this handkerchief. Can you please bear with it?"

    Raelle nodded her head and extended her wrist over. Ru ced the handkerchief on her wrist and ced three fingers on her wrist lightly to take the pulse. Ru''s eyes closed for a whole minute before they opened and he looked at Raelle.

    "Is everything okay?"

 Chapter 914: So Many Questions

    Chapter 914: So Many QuestionsWith a gentlemanly demeanor, Young Master Ru lifted his fingers from Raelle''s delicate wrist and removed the handkerchief. While folding the handkerchief, he said, "Thankfully, you''re not poisoned."

    With Raelle''s keen senses, she noticed a detail. He said she wasn''t poisoned. But he didn''t say everything was okay. Maybe she was overthinking it which wasn''t like it. However, this thought still remained in her mind.

    "You don''t think I''m a swindler, do you?"

    Raelle moved her eyes away and said, "You can''t me me even if that''s on my mind."

    Young Master Ru touched his face and muttered, "Am I losing my touch?" Shaking his head, he sat down before the flowering nt. Yes, sat down. He didn''t crouch down but straight up, just sat down on the ground. Taking out gloves from his pocket, he checked the blooming flower carefully.

    Raelle''s attention was captured by his every move. The person before her looked like a gentleman with a schrly air. However, the way this person dealt with her security team definitely made her doubt that. Even now, she could see that the person was dealing with the flowering nt very delicately but the same gentleness was not seen when he dealt with people.

    "Did I injure it?" asked Raelle referring to the nt.

    Young Master Ru''s lips curled up slightly at her choice of words. ''Injure...'' he thought to himself and turned to look at Raelle once more. This time, even Raelle could feel that there was a strongpulsion in those green orbs. Those eyes were probing her soul right now.

    "This tough guy will survive," replied Young Master Ru casually before moving his eyes away from Raelle''s face.

    "You... Young Master Ru!"

    Hearing that stuttering voice filled with fear, he looked at the person who ran over. The man lowered his head and epted his mistake, "My apologies! I left without informing anyone. It''s just that I... My stomach suddenly started hurting and I..."

    "Little Huzi," called out Young Master Ru. Even Raelle who was crouching beside Ru could tell that Ru''s voice wasced with a pressure unseen. No matter how dull she was with such details, she could still notice the change in tone.

    "Yes, Young Master Ru!" replied the man who was addressed as Little Huzi shuddered as he replied.

    "Do you know what this young master hates?"

    "Excuses," replied Little Huzi.

    "And what are you trying to do right now?"

    "Trying to justify my dereliction of duty," he replied with a sense of shame and guilt. Biting his lip, he still said, "I''ll go and get my punishment."

    Ru didn''t stop him but noticing Raelle looking at him, he couldn''t help asking, "What? Do you think I should be magnanimous and overlook this small mistake?"

    Raelle shook her head head honestly, "No, it wasn''t a small mistake. If you hadn''te to stop me, I''d have touched that flower. That could have endangered my life. But even if by pure luck I could escape being poisoned, there is a chance that the nt could have been damaged. Considering you put your effort, time, and hard work into cultivating it, no one can say it was a small mistake for someone to leave this ce unattended."

    The way Young Master Ru looked at Raelle took a subtle turn at this moment and his signature lop-sided grin spread on those thin lips. He took off his gloves and stood up from the ground as he patted off his clothes and went back to looking at a gentleman.

    "Your guys are free," he stated and Raelle looked over. Indeed, the bodyguards could move around now freely. And they all looked embarrassed but couldn''t hide their hostility toward the person who put them in this situation.

    Raelle checked the time and it was precisely fifteen minutes now.

    "I saw you inside copying the scriptures," stated Raelle.

    "What about it?"

    "My husband said copying scriptures can help calm your heart," Raelle added. "So as someone who did copy scriptures, what''s your take on that? Does it really calm your heart?"

    Young Master Ru shrugged, "You''re asking the wrong person. My heart is naturally without ripples. I don''t need to do anything to calm it down."

    "Your eyes were closed but you''re able to write," added Raelle. "What do you have to say about that?"

    "You have so many questions? Are you sure you''re supposed to ask this many questions to a stranger on your first meeting? I don''t think that''s how it should go," was Ru''s response.

    "Is it difficult to answer?"

    Young Master Ru was left looking at this beautiful woman who had so many questions and answered, "Muscle memory. This young master has copied scriptures from a young age. Even my toes can write without looking at this point."

    Raelle looked down at his feet and only noticed that he had been barefoot all this time. Even if the temperature was dropping now, the ground was still hot because of the zing sun that lingered during the day. But this person didn''t seem to notice the heat at all.

    "Was that metaphorical?" asked Raelle to confirm. She wanted to believe it was metaphorical but the way the other person said it made her question it for some reason.

    Young Master Ru chuckled, "What if it''s not metaphorical? Are you gonna ask me to show you how I write with my toes?"

    "Can you?" asked Raelle with her nk eyes staring back at her innocently.

    "Wow!" Young Master Ru touched his earlobe and cleared his throat. "You definitely have a lot of questions."

    "But you don''t look annoyed by the questions though," Raelle pointed. "Rather, you look like you''re enjoying it."

    Young Master Ru''s eyes narrowed slightly and he didn''t even deny her words. Of course, he wasn''t annoyed by the question. If anything, he just stopped looking at Raelle as a married woman and started looking like a little curious kid instead. With that innocence in her eyes, it was hard for Young Master Ru to think of her as anything else.

 Chapter 915: [Bonus chapter] Tour Guide

    Chapter 915: [Bonus chapter] Tour GuideYoung Master Ru suddenly took out chocte from his pocket and opened the wrapper to eat it. Raelle looked at the chocte in his hands, "My husband likes that chocte."

    Young Master Ru split the chocte and offered some to her, "Want some?"

    Raelle looked at it for a moment before she actually extended her hand to take it but the other person retracted his hand and gave Raelle a look, "Didn''t your parents teach you that kids should not take sweets from strangers? What if I''m a bad guy? Just because this young master is handsome, you shouldn''t be so trusting."

    "Well, my parents really didn''t teach me that," was Raelle''s surprising answer. "In fact, they taught me nothing." She briefly paused and added, "Also, you''re not a bad guy."

    Obviously, the words she said were simple but the meaning behind them was deeper than it seems. At least someone like Young Master Ru was able to read between lines very well. So, it wasn''t surprising that he managed to figure out a few things from that simple sentence. For instance, Raelle''s words either meant that she didn''t have parents or that her parents had no time for her. Either way, it didn''t sound good.

    "What makes you say that?" asked Young Master Ru in interest.

    "Intuition?"

    Ru chuckled, "Just enjoy the chocte." He offered the split chocte bar to her again and didn''t pull it back this time. "Also, don''t randomly walk around. There are other herbs growing here. This ce is not for visitors. Be careful. The rules of the temple aren''t as lenient as I am." He was saying this in goodwill and even Raelle could tell that. It seemed she really shouldn''t be taking this temple lightly. Or else, she could get into trouble and she was definitely still the same person who didn''t like troublesome things.

    "I''ll keep that in mind," said Raelle. "You seem to know a lot about this ce. Do you live here?"

    "These days, I am living here," came the answer.

    "For your research?" asked Raelle. "Does that mean you''re a nt researcher? Also, can you really read a pulse?"

    "You can call me a nt researcher if you feel like it," replied Ru. "It doesn''t matter what you call me. And you don''t have to doubt me like that. Whether I can read the pulse or not, rest assured. You''ll survive."

    "You seem to know a lot about this temple, so why don''t you share something?" asked Raelle.

    "So, now you want me to be your tour guide?"

    "No, I just want you to introduce me to the things that make this ce special."

    "It''s the same thing however you put it. I''m still being treated as a tour guide."

    "Then let''s start with a proper introduction," said Raelle. "I''m Raelle Xiang. And you are?"

    "Xiang... Which Xiang is it?" asked Young Master Ru curiously.

    "Xiang family of Xinji," answered Raelle.

    "Oh? Is that so?" Young Master Ru''s smirk deepened. And all at once, he understood who was standing before him. There were only so many noteworthy ns that survived the turmoil of history. So, how someone like Ru who came from one of those ns couldn''t know about the Xiang? Also, at this moment, this young master also understood why Raelle said her parents taught her nothing. "I''m Ru. It''s very lovely to meet the youngest descendant of the n of Generals. Should I call it my honor?"

    "You''re familiar with my family?"

    "Somewhat," replied Ru.

    "Then you don''t mind being the tour guide."

    Ru stared at Raelle who was still stuck on that and sighed silently. "Okay, what do you want to know? The history of this temple?"

    "No, the most interesting ces," repeated Raelle.

    "There is a cherry blossom forest in the back, you must have seen it. It''s not the blooming season, so it looks deste, but it''s a picturesque ce in the blooming season. In ancient times, it was a famous rendezvous ce for nobledies andds. That just reminded me, that it''s still months before I can open my jars of cherry blossom wine. What torture is this wait!"

    "I did pass through it," told Raelle.

    "There is a fish pond. If you pay attention you can actually see very interesting fishes in there," said Ru. "Feeding those fishes is considered umting merits for yourself. It''s supposed to be a fun activity but in my personal opinion, it''s boring."

    "I agree," said Raelle.

    Ru nced at her and continued, "Beside the pond is the famous pavilion of life."

    "Pavilion of life?" asked Raelle. She didn''t think there was anything special about that pavilion. Why was it named like that?

    Ru started walking and Raelle followed her back to the pavilion. Pointing at the carvings on the pirs, Young Master Ru told her, "Everything in the universe is believed to be made up of five elements. Namely, wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. That''s why this pavilion is called the pavilion of life. On each pir, you''ll find the sign of the element it associates with. They say that the world changes ording to the five elements'' generation or oveing interactions rtionship. They are like the Yin and Yang."

    "Is it true?" asked Raelle with interest.

    "The five generating interactions are fueling, forming, containing, carrying, and feeding. If I have to exin that, it''d be like wood fuels the fire, fire in turn forms the earth like volcanos and ashes. The earth contains metals and metals carry water in the form of buckets or pipes you can say. And water feeds the woods like trees. Is it not a cycle of interaction?"

    Raelle was listening with interest and found this pavilion that was previously easily forgotten a lot more interesting. "Go on..."

    Ru gave her a look and felt like this young master was truly not being treated as a young master. He really was ying the role of a tour guide even more diligently than a real tour guide. But the only constion was that the listener was quite interested. Rather than finding this topic boring, Raelle was showing a keen interest.

 Chapter 916: 5 W & 1 H

    Chapter 916: 5 W & 1 H"Why aren''t you continuing?" asked Raelle when Ru didn''t continue even after waiting for a while.

    "My battery is dead," replied Ru.

    Raelle looked back at her bodyguards who had actually widened the distance even more from the moment she started walking with Ru. "Aiden, give me a chocte bar." The one called immediately stepped up but instead of walking over, threw it over which Raele caught easily. Raelle offered it to Ru, "Replenish the batter."

    Ru looked at her actions andughed. With those impable facial features, his handsomeness was already above the masses. He wasn''t a white-skinned guy who looked pale like Shui Xian. Instead, he had healthy wheat-colored skin which added another charm to his handsomeness. But when heughed so carefreely, Raelle wasn''t able to look away from him.

    Raelle could already tell that the way Ru looked at her had changed from the moment she introduced herself. It definitely had nothing to do with who she was. It had more to do with her family name. Since Ru seemed to know the Xiang family, Raelle noticed that this young master was giving her face for her family''s sake.

    After all, it didn''t seem like this young master was an ordinary person or an easygoing one. Maybe it was because she was standing at the top of her life that she was able to tell that the person beside her wasn''t inferior to her. Perhaps, her own momentum might fall short before the other. Because while Raelle only exuded coldness to others, this person seemed to be giving off a deathly and dangerous vibe behind that devilish charm and schrly persona.

    "You''re funny,"mented Ru as he took the chocte from her hand with ease. If there were things that young master Ru couldn''t refuse, the top one on that list had to be choctes.

    Seeing how he started munching on the chocte, Raelle felt like she paid the tour guide a fee. So, she felt rxed as she asked, "So, what are the oveing interactions of the five elements?"

    In fact, it wasn''t that difficult for Ru to read through Raelle''s intentions and his eyes looked at the chocte withplicated emotion. Sigh. Who knew one day he''d receive such a ''fee'' for his ''services''?

    "Five oveing interactions are melting, prating, separating, absorbing, and quenching." He told Raelle seriously. But he''d look more dedicated to the task if he had stopped munching on the chocte. "Fire melts metal, metal prates wood like screwing, sawing, nailing, etc. Then wood separates the earth as in tree roots breaking up the soil and rocks. The earth absorbs water and water quenches fire. And that''s the oveing interactions between the five elements."

    Raelle looked like she was mentally taking note of this knowledge. Raelle continued to ask the rted question and Ru answered each and every single one patiently. "So all zodiac signs have elements attached to them? What''s mine?"

    "What''s your zodiac sign?"

    "Rat," answered Raelle.

    "Water," replied Ru. "Your zodiac sign''s element is water." Taking a brief pause, he added, "You don''t even look like you believe in this stuff. Why ask so many questions?"

    "Just for knowledge," was Raelle''s response. "Besides,tely, I had been interested in stars. Although I don''t think our stars can decide our fate, I''m still interested in learning about it. There is no harm in learning, right?"

    Ru nodded, "What you learn is always yours. There is certainly nothing wrong with it. But I just realized, you''re the girl I should call 5 W with 1 H."

    "Huh?"

    "Because you open your mouth and start with, ''Why? What? Who? When? Where? And How?'' You''re a very curious kid."

    "Everyone knows that," said Raelle. "That''s why I spend my time reading more books to find the answers to my questions."

    "Not all answers are written in books," said Ru. "Spend some time with nature, with water, with humans, with animals. Everything around you has a story to tell. Don''t just focus on the cold pages of the books. Not all thoughts are written there."

    "But people are not honest," Raelle said her thoughts out loud. "They don''t tell the stories. They like keeping secrets. They like hiding their thoughts."

    "But if humans were as easy to read as books, wouldn''t life be a little boring?"

    Raelle looked up and saw that glint of mischief once again.

    "You''re also not honest," said Raelle suddenly taking the person before her off guard. "Your eyes and your demeanor don''t match. You look like a calm person but your eyes have a mischievousness. However, both are deceiving. You''re very deeply hiding your true self."

    Ru''s hand instinctively went to the pendant around his neck as he rubbed the jade he said, "You''re not good at hiding at all. You say whatever you want. You should not be telling a person at your first meeting that they are deceptive. At least, I''m putting up an act." Sighing, he looked up at the flocks of birds flying back to their nests as he added, "Okay, I''d be honest with you. It''s been a while since I''ve liked someone. But you surely know how to catch attention. Earlier I was being polite. Just following the manners I was taught. But this time, it''s really lovely to meet you, Miss Raelle Xiang. You''re definitely of that surname of yours."

    This time around Raelle could tell those were really not polite words and the person before her was genuinely sincere. That sincerity was so palpable in those eyes that seemed to know how to speak.

    "Why do I think you know my family very well?" asked Raelle.

    "Is it that surprising?" asked Ru. "Your family fought for this mothend and shed blood for this mothend. Your family sacrificed way too much for this mothend. It''d be a shame if people forget the heroes who lost lives to protect thisnd, no?"

    Raelle agreed with those words. Of course, she also thought it''d be a shame if people really forgot what her family did for this country.

 Chapter 917: [Bonus chapter] Little Uncle

    Chapter 917: [Bonus chapter] Little Uncle"Since I''ve begun this tour, I''ll take it to the end," said Ru. "If you walk from here and go right, you''ll find yourself before a splendid banyan tree. It''s over 800 years old and some say it has formed a tree spirit that can grant wishes. You''ll find plenty of ribbons covered with wishes tied to its branches."

    "Does it really grant wishes?"

    "Dreaming is believing," answered Ru. "Every reality begins when you start believing in your dreams. If humans hadn''t dreamt of stars and the moon or stopped believing in those dreams, we wouldn''t be exploring the universe right now. So, everything begins from belief." He didn''t continue on that topic and went on, "Also, peoplee here to ask for fortune telling as well. This ce is famous for that. You can try it for fun if you want. I''m done. I have nothing else to add."

    "Ru!"

    Just as he was done speaking, he heard someone calling him and looked over. Putting on that lopsided grin once again, he called out, "Little Uncle!"

    The person who was being called ''little uncle'' felt the veins on his forehead jumping because of that title. "You either remove that little from that title or stop calling me uncle!" said the person who came over.

    "Yes, Mr. Xia Zhao! I''ll keep that in mind," said Ru.

    "I highly doubt that," replied Xia Zhao.

    Raelle had been looking at the man who appeared and tried to recall who he was. She definitely didn''t see him before but his younger version... Once Ru called out that name, it instantly clicked. Yes! She never met Xia Zhao. But she had seen his photos from childhood with Mu Chenyan. So, that''s why he looked familiar.

    "Young Master Ru, may I ask where your phone is?" asked Xia Zhao trying to keep a smile on his face.

    "I don''t know," replied Ru.

    "Can you please get rid of this habit of yours?" He was exasperated. He called him so many times but he didn''t pick up. "What about your smartwatch? Why the hell did you even make that thing if you weren''t willing to wear it around?"

    Ru looked at his empty wrist and replied, "I took it off and forgot it."

    "You only forget the things that can be used to contact you."

    "Yeah. I have selective amnesia."

    Xia Zhao shook his head and only then did he notice Raelle. He stared at her for a moment before he nodded at her in greeting and looked away. Of course, he recognized her. She was Mu Chenyan''s niece. How could he not recognize her? Even if one couldn''t find Raelle''s photos online, he definitely had ways to find her information because of his Xia n.

    But he didn''t know why his family''s young master was standing with the Xiang family''s darling Raelle.

    "What are you up to?" he asked Ru.

    "Little Uncle, you look nervous,"mented Ru. "Don''t be so impatient. Don''t you care about keeping your unbothered image anymore?"

    Xia Zhao almost rolled his eyes Ru. Who was the one who just said that he''d stop calling him little uncle? Well, that was forgotten at the next turn almost immediately. He knew he shouldn''t keep young master Ru''s words seriously.

    "Since you have a guest, I should leave," said Raelle. "Thank you for being patient with my questions. Not everyone is able to deal with it. So, thank you very much."

    Ru looked at her and smiled. He suddenly clicked his finger and someone jumped down from the pavilion. That person appeared so magically that Raelle didn''t even have a moment to blink. And then the person disappeared almost instantly as well.

    "Shadow guards," said Raelle as she looked around.

    Ru''s smile deepened and held up his hand. As his fingers uncurled, Raelle found a white jade lying in his palm. The jade was so smooth and had some patterns on it. The patterns looked like green mountains. It was a beautiful jade piece.

    "Take it. It''s our first meeting gift," said Ru. "I''m your elder. I can''t let a junior walk away empty-handed."

    Xia Zhao snorted and Ru gave him a look that made him look away. He was the elder here but he didn''t dare to get into a confrontation with Ru at all. He was self-aware and knew very well he was nothing before this young master of the n who was already regarded as the next master of the n.

    "There is no need for this," said Raelle. "Also, I don''t have anything to give you."

    "You already did," replied Ru.

    Raelle thought back and could only think of that chocte she gave him. "Don''t you think the value of these two things doesn''t match?"

    "Who cares about value when ites to gifts?" rebutted Ru. "Besides, you can say this jade is asmon to me as chocte is to you. Don''t worry. It''s just a small jade. Nothing too valuable."

    Raelle saw the sincerity in those eyes but still didn''t take it.

    "You should take it," said Xia Zhao. "It''s just a small gift. And considering the history between our families, it''s really not much."

    Raelle didn''t know the history between their families. She only thought the connection between them was that Xia Zhao could be considered Mu Chenyan''s friend.

    "You''re Mr. Xia Zhao?" asked Raelle. "My Yanyan''s best friend."

    "Is that what she said I am?" he asked.

    Raelle shook her head, "No, that''s the conclusion I came to."

    Xia Zhao smiled at her and didn''t refute her words at all. He just said, "Then you should really not refuse the gift. It''s not every day, Young Master Ru gives people gifts."

    "Do I look like a miser?" asked Ru.

    "You are," replied Xia Zhao. "Ask anyone around you."

    Ru ignored him and dropped the jade into Raelle''s opened palm saying, "Send my greeting to your grandfather. Also, to your aunt, Mu Chenyan." As he said that, his eyes were on Xia Zhao.

    "Do you know my Yanyan?" asked Raelle.

    Ru shrugged, "Nope. But I do n on knowing her." Xia Zhao glimpsed at him and chose to notment here.

 Chapter 918: Heart Is The Essence

    Chapter 918: Heart Is The EssenceOn the other hand, right after hanging up on Raelle, Hyson rushed to get dressed up and ran out. He went straight to the garage and looked at the cars before his eyes locked on a red sportscar. He ran back inside the house and asked, "Yanyan, can I borrow your sportscar?"

    Mu Chenyan was really busy these days because of thepany she started. This was the reason she avoided being a boss. It was too much work. Wasn''t it better to be just azy shareholder who cashed money only without putting in any effort? But look where love got her. For the love of her best friend, she actually jumped into this pit herself.

    Tsk.

    It was even more tiring than she thought it''d be.

    Hearing Hyson''s question, shezily looked up, "Why are you even asking? Little Fai, you''re not a kid anymore. You really don''t have to ask for permission to do everything. You can make your own decisions." She went back to looking at the screen of herptop before saying, "Just take the key."

    "Okay, thank you!" said Hyson and turned to leave.

    "Wait!"

    "Hm? What happened?" he asked.

    Mu Chenyan looked up at him and squinted her eyes, "You''re driving?"

    "Yes," replied Hyson. "You just said I''m not a kid. Don''t tell me I can''t drive."

    "No, that''s not it. It''s just that you usually don''t like driving," Mu Chenyan pointed out seriously. And that''s why it sounded surprising to her as well. "Where are you going?"

    "To see Ellie."

    "You''re going to the hospital?"

    "Wow! Yanyan''s information is slow for once,"mented Hyson dramatically. Then he happily informed her, "She got discharged today and she went to the temple with Xian Ge."

    Mu Chenyan was left staring at him in silence. Oh, she wasn''t surprised that her information was really slow. It was because Raelle actually went to a temple. Was day was it? Where did the sun rise from? Why were both Raelle and Hyson giving her surprises? Hyson who didn''t drive wanted to drive and Raelle who never had an interest in ces like temples actually visited one.

    Why wasn''t she able to keep up with these two kids?

    But then again, she really never had been able to keep up with them. How could anyone keep up with them? Their thoughts jumped around and she was already getting old now. It was hard to keep up with their pace. Maybe she should just ept it now.

    Hyson waved his hand before her eyes to get back her attention, "Earth to Yanyan!"

    Mu Chenyan snapped out of her thoughts and looked at him, "Yeah. What? What happened?"

    "I should be asking you that," said Hyson. "Was my information so shocking?"

    Mu Chenyan waved her hand off, "It''s nothing like that. My thoughts just wandered off and I realized that both my kids have grown up now. I''m old."

    Hysonughed at her and hugged her neck from behind the sofa where he stood, "It''s okay. Even if you''re old, we still love you."

    Mu Chenyan smiled helplessly and patted his head that was squeezed beside hers. Kissing his head, she said, "You really know how to coax an olddy like me now."

    "Byparing yourself to olddies, you''re really overestimating the olddies," said Hyson. He lowered his voice and added mysteriously, "You''re still young. Have you looked at my mother? She gets tired after walking a few steps. Those are the signs of being an olddy."

    "She is pretty young," Mu Chenyan habitually defended her best friend.

    "Tsk. But she is old at heart," insisted Hyson. "Heart is the essence of the body. If you''re young at heart, your body will keep functioning ordingly."

    She ruffled his hair and said, "Okay. I get it. Now, go already. If you wasted your time here, you''d bete."

    "Alright. I''m leaving. Love You!" he kissed her cheek and ran off.

    Mu Chenyanughed and shook her head at his antics. But once she looked back at herptop, her smile vanished and a dark cloud appeared above her head.

    While in rush, Hyson ended up running into his mother. Seeing him running, she held the back of his cor and pulled him back. He was really still the chick that this mother hen could easily move around. But only because he allowed her to do so.

    Standing before her, he sighed, "Yes, mum!"

    ''Where are you going?''

    "I''m going out," replied Hyson.

    Yue Yue narrowed her eyes at him, ''Where?''

    Hyson hesitated before he answered, "To the temple."

    Yue Yue''s face lit up and she smiled at him as if she was looking at him proudly. ''My good son! You finally are sensible. Go, go. Ask for some blessings.''

    Hyson knew she''d react this way. "You''ve been heavily influenced," he remarked. He wasn''t lying. He knew his mother was mostly influenced by the small vige people where they used to live when he was born. People in such ces believed even more in gods, ghosts, and anything supernatural. His dear mum was also influenced by them.

    Yue Yue understood his meaning but she didn''t say anything regarding that. She was already happy enough that her son was taking the initiative to go and make some merits. She couldn''t ask for much. After all, usually, she had to drag him with her, and even then he''d make an ugly face all the way.

    She caressed his head lovingly and added, ''It''s already quitete. Will you be able toe back at night?''

    Hyson looked at the time and said, "I''m not sure. If Ellie and Xian Ge came back, I''ll follow them. If they don''t, I''ll just stay where they will stay."

    Yue Yue agreed with him, ''Then you follow them. Don''t wander around all alone. It''s dangerous.''

    Hyson gave his mother a look, "Just now my father said, I''m not a kid anymore!"

    "Who is your father?"

    "Yanyan!"

    Hyson subconsciously answered without even realizing who was asking that question.

 Chapter 919: [Bonus chapter] Your Wife

    Chapter 919: [Bonus chapter] Your WifeWhen he realized that the question was asked by a man, he paused and looked around. Only then did, he see Zhai Kuijun. When did hee? Hyson frowned to himself.

    While Zhai Kuijun also had a weird expression on his face after getting that answer.

    "Why are you here again?" asked Hyson and earned himself a smack on his head from his mother. He looked at her in disbelief. Just a second ago, she used the same hand to caress his head so lovingly, and now this? Why did women love to change so fast?

    She red at her son, ''Is that a question you should be asking a guest?''

    Hyson licked his lips and sniffed, "Sorry! That was thoughtless of me."

    "That''s okay," said Zhai Kuijun. "It''s me who came unannounced."

    "Troubles alwayse unannounced," muttered Hyson to himself. Zhai Kuijun didn''t hear him but Yue Yue did. She pulled his ear.

    ''Behave yourself! Where are your manners?''

    Hyson rubbed his ear. He decided to show his best side before this man because of course, he couldn''t let anyone from his mother''s past point at him and question his upbringing. That''d be equivalent to calling his mother ipetent and he didn''t wish to see that.

    After sorting out his thoughts, Hyson greeted Zhai Kuijun, "Hello, Uncle! It is indeed surprising to see you here. After all, Uncle Lin is not home these days."

    "Oh, I didn''te for Hulin," replied Zhai Kuijun.

    Hyson pressed his lips together, "You came for my mother?"

    "Yes," answered Zhai Kuijun honestly.

    Hyson nodded his head in understanding, "Then please,e inside. Why are you just standing in the hallway? Sit down in the living room. I''ll tell the kitchen to send something to drink for you. What would you like to drink by the way?"

    Seeing his enthusiastic wee all of a sudden, even Zhai Kuijun was caught off guard. Yue Yue rolled her eyes at her son who was very good at looking like an obedient and well-behaved son in front of strangers. But then she looked at Zhai Kuijun and couldn''t help thinking about how her son wasn''t just her own, he also was this man''s son but right now, Zhai Kuijun and Hyson were nothing but strangers.

    She immediately threw these thoughts from her mind and decided to rx. It was better this way. Strangers! There was no need to bring any trouble to anyone''s life. Whether it was Zhai Kuijun, Zhai Yanjun, or even her own son, Hyson, everyone would be affected by one truth and their lives will be thrown off bnce. It looked like everyone and everything was finally getting on track, so there was no need to bring up the long-buried secret.

    However, at the end of the day, she couldn''t help feeling sorry for her son. Yue Yue believed she had a clear conscience. She had never done anything wrong to anyone. Actually, shetely felt like she didn''t even wrong Zhai Kuijun. But the person who was wronged in this messed up situation was the innocent son of hers.

    Her son who was born prematurely and started suffering from the moment he came into this world. He should have had the world at his feet but their circumstances didn''t allow it. Nevertheless, her son was still a prince. How could he not shine even if he was raised in the mud?

    For someone excessively sensitive towards others'' emotions, Hyson noticed his mother''s change of emotions almost instantly. This silly woman! What was he supposed to do with her? If he left her unattended, she''d let her mind wander off to unknown ces. It was truly worrying.

    Hyson immediately hugged her petite figure. He wrapped his arms around her protectively and gave her a long hug. Kissing the top of her head, he looked down at her face and only moved his lips to let her know, ''Mum, I love you! Stop overthinking. I''m very happy in my life.''

    Yue Yue''s eyes turned red instantly.

    Hyson took a deep breath and called out, "Yanyan, your wife is crying once again. Come and deal with this crybaby." Yue Yue hit his chest but it didn''t hurt him at all. He onlyughed at her reaction and while touching her face, he added, "Mum, it''s hot outside. I want the sky to cry. Seeing your cry is not fun."

    She pped his arm again, ''I''m not crying.''

    "Yes, yes, it must be dust in your eyes again," he sounded so perfunctory that he was asking for a beating right now. But seriously, he really wanted to tell his mother that even when he was three, he didn''t fall for her silly excuses. She was so bad at it.

    Zhai Kuijun had been standing by their side and had been seeing their interaction all this while. He didn''t know why the scene before him was hurting his heart and also felt kind of heart-warming. What a conflicted feeling. But he truly was surprised to see how good the rtionship between Yue Yue and Hyson was.

    Hyson suddenly nced at Zhai Kuijun and he felt chilled. Zhai Kuijun didn''t know where this chill came from. Because Hyson looked very innocent. This dangerous vibe couldn''t being from him, right?

    Well, the truth was, it was indeeding from him.

    Hyson really wanted to bite this man. It was the second time he appeared before his mother and he was on the verge of crying once more. He really didn''t think this man''s appearance was a good sign at all!

    Yue Yue pinched Hyson''s nose, ''Now, go! I''m fine. I won''t cry. Stop being so hostile.''

    Hyson said, "I''m clearly being very nice for now."

    She also could see that. He was indeed being very nice. But it might notst long. Even she knew her son''s anger always stemmed from her own tears. He could do anything at that moment. So, it was better to get him away from Zhai Kuijun before Hyson really started losing his rationality.

    ''Go! You''re gettingte!''

    Hyson sighed heavily and agreed. He nodded at Zhai Kuijun and ran outside.

 Chapter 920: Rude

    Chapter 920: RudeJust as Hyson left, before the silence could settle in, a figure strutted over with anguid pace. It was none other than Mu Chenyan who was just called by Hyson. She yawned and asked, "I heard someone say, my wife, is crying."

    Yue Yue shot Mu Chenyan a disgruntled look.

    "Don''t shoot daggers at me," stated Mu Chenyan. "Who asked you to cry? If you hadn''t, little Fai won''t call out to me. "Why are you crying again? Are tears that cheap?" She held up her hand to cover her mouth as she yawned once again. Her eyes fell on Zhai Kuijun and the same question appeared again, "What are you doing here?"

    Zhai Kuijun''s lips spasmed when he heard that question yet again. First, it came from Hyson and now from Mu Chenyan. Now, that he recalled, Hyson called Mu Chenyan his father. So, was he supposed to say ''Like father, like son''?

    Although the thought was absurd, he truly thought there was nothing wrong with his logic here. Who asked Mu Chenyan and Hyson to act the same way? Even he was thrown into confusion wondering if they were really father and son. When this thought appeared in his mind, he felt like beating himself. How could he even think like this?

    Yue Yue stepped up to pinch Mu Chenyan, ''Should I tell Elder Xiang how you''re questioning a guest?''

    Mu Chenyan stepped back, "I mean. What are you doing here? You shoulde inside and sit down. Give us the opportunity to be good hosts."

    The way she changed her tune was amusing and shocking at the same time. But honestly speaking, Zhai Kuijun didn''t mind her attitude at all. Neither hers nor Hysons. He could actually understand them better. He wasn''t blind. He could tell both had opinions but only because his presence somehow made Yue Yue ufortable. And both Hyson and Mu Chenyan seemed very protective of Yue Yue which was very good news to him.

    It truly settled down his worries.

    One would say a mother protects her child but from what he saw, it seemed Hyson was the one protecting his mother instead. In fact, if he asked, even Yue Yue would agree. Why else would she feel so sorry for her son? That silly child didn''t know how toin but always knew how to stand before her as her shield. Protecting from everything.

    She already felt gratified knowing that her son never thought she wasn''t good enough. He was proud of her and that was one of the biggest reasons she was able to break out of the shell she had built around herself. And it was also the reason she didn''t feel anything facing her parents.

    Mu Chenyan didn''t just say that, she really guided Zhai Kuijun inside the living room with Yue Yue slowly following behind them. Mu Chenyan asked someone to serve him drinks and snacks while she also sat back in her ce.

    "I believe you''re here for Yue?" It sounded more like a statement than a questioning from Mu Chenyan. She didn''t think there was any other reason for Zhai Kuijun toe here. After all, her Ge wasn''t around either. So, why else would this mane around? To face her ugly stares? She didn''t think Zhai Kuijun had a heart big enough to be able to bear her ugly stares.

    She was going very easy on this man for Yue Yue''s sake. Otherwise, she didn''t even care that he was Hyson''s father. What father? He was at most a sperm donor at this point. Why should she care about this connection between them? It''d only ruin her mood just thinking about how this sperm donation conspired.

    "Why? I can''te to see you?" asked Zhai Kuijun.

    "I don''t think we have such a good rtionship," replied Mu Chenyan. "You and I have nothing to do with each other."

    "You''re at least polite to me before," mentioned Zhai Kuijun. "Why is it that from the moment I got involved with Yue, your attitude towards me changed?"

    "I''m still very polite," said Mu Chenyan.

    ''Stop it!''

    Mu Chenyan looked at Yue Yue and sighed heavily before nodding, "As you wish your highness!"

    The house help orderly served some fruits, pastries, and tea. Mu Chenyan picked up a pastry and nibbled on it like a small animal. She definitely didn''t look as aggressive as she normally did. She actually looked quite soft and kinda adorable.

    Zhai Kuijun was shocked by his own thoughts. He picked up the tea and sipped on it to calm himself. He must have hurt his head for real or else why would he actually think that Mu Chenyan looked adorable? Does that word even suit Mu Chenyan? He never thought it did.

    Looking at how silently Zhai Kuijun was drinking tea while Yue Yue kept her hands in herp and sat straight with an elegant posture, Mu Chenyan felt strange. What the hell! Why was it so silent around here?

    "You both are waiting for me to leave, are you?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Zhai Kuijun shook his head, "No, no. How can I dare ask you to leave?"

    "So, you don''t need space, right? Then I''ll just sit here even if that''s considered rude," was Mu Chenyan''s response. She really didn''t feel like leaving this man alone with Yue Yue right now. But the main reason was, that she was here first. She had all of her documents here and she was toozy to move.

    So, Mu Chenyan picked up herptop and went back to her workpletely ignoring the two around her but not before saying, "You can pretend like I''m invisible. And if you really need space, you can go to the other living room."

    Zhai Kuijun didn''t think anyone could actually ignore Mu Chenyan''s presence in a room. Just think she was invisible? That was kind of impossible! But it''s not like he had anything secret to talk to Yue Yue so he didn''t mind Mu Chenyan''s presence.

 Chapter 921: [Bonus chapter] Nothing To Fear

    Chapter 921: [Bonus chapter] Nothing To FearYue Yue smiled at Zhai Kuijun and showed him her phone''s screen where he read, ''Do you want to go elsewhere? Chenyan is busy. She definitely won''t move from here.'' She knew her best friend and she knew once Mu Chenyan got to work, she''d actually zone out of the world. Earlier, it was because it was Hyson calling her that she moved.

    If it had been anyone else, Mu Chenyan would have chosen to conveniently ignore that person.

    Zhai Kuijun shook his head, "There is no need." He was silent for a minute before asking, "So, how are you?"

    Yue Yue gave him an elegant smile, ''I''m fine,'' she wrote. ''What about you?''

    "I''m... I''m good," he replied. He again went silent, trying to arrange his words in his mind before voicing out, "Did you see your parents?"

    Yue Yue paused before nodding in response and wrote, ''How do you know?''

    "They started looking for you again," Zhai Kuijun told her honestly. Then he looked up at Mu Chenyan and added, "But they aren''t able to find anything yet again." And he knew who was behind that. "Your mother mentioned it to my mother. And once they mentioned Mu Chenyan, my parents obviously figured out something else. Apparently, they also met you long ago but they didn''t recognize you back then."

    Yue Yue lowered her head when she recalled her encounter with Father Zhai and Mother Zhai. It was her good luck that Mu Chenyan had strange hobbies so she was able to hide from those two. But what''s the point? In the end, she was still caught. Even if it was muchter now.

    ''I did see Uncle and Aunt on a gathering here,'' she chose to tell him.

    "I believe my father will be asking about you Uncle Yu," said Zhai Kuijun.

    Yue Yue didn''t look worried, ''It''s okay. Elder Xiang knows what to do.''

    "They are best friends. If my father asked, Uncle Yu won''t lie or hide things."

    Yue Yue nodded, ''I know. I just told you, Elder Xiang knows what to do. I don''t have to worry about anything.''

    Zhai Kuijun saw confidence shining in her limpid eyes. A confidence that was never seen before. She looked sofortable as she spoke and so natural. It was like she had immense trust in Elder Xiang. As if she was certain that there was nothing to worry about when Elder Xiang was at the forefront.

    He had a rxed smile on his face as he asked, "It seems meeting your parents didn''t have any noticeable effect on you. That''s good to know. I was worried for nothing." That was the real reason he came over. He was worried about her mental state. He knew how much she loved and respected her parents even if they weren''t the best of parents out there.

    But now, he had to realize that she wasn''t the same person anymore. Things that hurt back then, don''t seem to hurt anymore. Or perhaps, she had grown up and learned to hide her feelings. Either way, it was a good thing.

    ''I''m not that weak anymore,'' she wrote again to tell him. ''I might still end up crying here and there, but not just anyone can make me cry anymore. Only a few people have this control in my life now. And those who do have this control are always trying their best to protect me. I have nothing to fear.''

    "It''s good to know that little Yue has nothing to fear anymore," chuckled Zhai Kuijun. "You''ve really grown up and I''m happy about that."

    He didn''t think there was any need to tell her that her father''s health took a hit from the moment he met her again. Since they had sever ties, it was better to cut them cleanly. Yue Yue didn''t need their affection filled with guilt. What was she to do with it when that affection didn''te with the ability to protect her?

    Staying with the Xiang family was best for Yue Yue since the Xiang family was always very protective of their own and they all were strong people. Living with them would allow Yue Yue to spread her wings with ease and leave behind the timidness that had shackled her for far too long now.

    ''You can stop worrying about me,'' she said to him. ''I am no longer the weak girl who didn''t know how to protect herself. I am quite a capable person now.''

    Zhai Kuijun felt happy seeing her pride sparkling in her eyes. She looked like a kid who was showing off but he found it cute. This look suited her more. She definitely wasn''t meant to look like a gloomy kid. She deserved to be happy.

    "Yes, you''re very capable," hemented as he rubbed her head gently as if they went back in time when he used to do the same. This gesture was just that natural to him. "After all, you''ve raised such a bright son. How can anyone question your capability?"

    Yue Yue pressed her lips and became a little shy when she received thatpliment. She also felt like they traveled back in time when he rubbed her head. The gentleness was still the same in his manners and the way he looked at her was also the same. Even the way he agreed with her and continued to praise her to the heavens was also the same.

    Everything was the same but...

    Yet, nothing was really the same anymore.

    She wasn''t the little girl who dreamed of being loved. She wasn''t the little girl with unrealistic dreams. And he wasn''t the boy who shined everywhere she stood. Now, she was a woman who was stronger than her past self and who wasn''t scared of being alone. And he was the man who had wasted all his feelings on the wrong person.

    But just for this moment, she chose to forget all that. For this moment, she could pretend that nothing had changed. Both of them hadn''t broken just yet.

 Chapter 922: Agreement

    Chapter 922: AgreementMu Chenyan lifted her eyes from theptop screen and peered at the interaction between Zhai Kuijun and Yue Yue. Even though they were silent again, she felt they were veryfortable, and even from their expressions, she could tell they were reminiscing about the old times.

    Sigh!

    Old times... Memories... What a ce to live in.

    Of course, Mu Chenyan wasn''t someone who would want to live in memories. But living in someone else''s memories might be a good idea.

    Why was she thinking this nonsense? Casting away these thoughts, she checked the files she received from the advertisement department. While checking those, she heard a ''Ding'' sound from her phone.

    She looked at the message she had received from an unknown number. She clicked it open and her eyes widened slightly in surprise. It read:

    ''Dear Yan Zi, stop bothering the gallery. I made it clear that I''m not selling the painting. Stop being stubborn. Why do you always have to make things difficult for yourself? Don''t insist on getting things that don''t belong to you. Regards, Xia Zhao.''

    She stared at the short message on her phone screen intently. Who knew what was on her mind right now? But her fingers kept tapping rhythmically on her phone''s screen. She read the same message a few more times.

    And finally, she replied:

    ''Where did you get my number?''

    There was no response from the other person for a long time. It was like her message was cast into ake and it didn''t even raise a ripple. She obviously didn''t believe that he didn''t see the message at all.

    So, shepiled another message, ''If you always had my number, why didn''t you contact me for all these years?''

    This time, the reply came instantly, ''Because my presence always got on your nerve.''

    She didn''t deny that. He always rubbed her the wrong way. She just couldn''t stay calm around him. She was always itching to do something bad when he was around. She suddenly hated this fellow whose intelligence was used for interpreting her words the wrong way. Even when she said she hated him, she never meant for him to just disappear from her life. But he still kept his distance from her. From the moment they first met, he kept an appropriate distance from her.

    ''I am not giving up on that painting,'' she replied and threw her phone aside not caring about his response at all.

    ...

    On the other side, Xia Zhao read the message she sent and a helpless smile glinted in his eyes. He just asked her to stop being stubborn and here she was going against him yet again. Indeed, she didn''t change at all. She still loved going against him.

    In fact, he knew why she was so interested in ''The Fiery Autumn'' painting of his. That painting was special to him but it wasn''t special to her at all. Nope. It had no value to Mu Chenyan at all. The only reason she wanted it was being he refused to give it. If he had agreed to sell it to her for any price, she''d have already lost her interest long ago.

    But he didn''t want to sell it to her when it meant nothing to her. And that precisely didn''t sit well with her. Since he refused, she was hell-bent on taking it from him at any cost.

    He suddenly recalled Raelle whom he met earlier and the smile in his eyes thickened along with his curiosity toward Raelle. Only because he heard she was raised by Mu Chenyan and from how Raelle seemed, he couldn''t understand how someone hyperactive like Mu Chenyan raised someone with a stable mindset. He didn''t think they had the same temperament at all.

    "Young Master Ru," he raised his head to look at the young man who was kneeling on the straw mat while picking Buddha beads. His eyes settled on this young man and he wanted Mu Chenyan toe and see him. She always said he had serenity surrounding him that she wanted to destroy. But he wanted to meet Young Master Ru who was both the definition of serenity and chaos.

    "How can I help you, Little Uncle?" asked Young Master Ru as he opened his eyes to face him.

    They were currently in a meditation room with a simple interior. The air had the smell of sandalwood burning. A low tea table was ced before Xia Zhao with a steaming cup of steeped tea right in front of him.

    "What do you think about Raelle Xiang?" asked Xia Zhao.

    "Hmm..." A thoughtful expression appeared on Young Master Ru''s serene face. "She is peculiar. Her eyes are very clear. There is no greed in her eyes. But if I have to really describe her, this young master will say she is very lost."

    "Lost?" repeated Xia Zhao peculiarly. "How did youe to that conclusion?"

    "Lost because she is yet to realize what she really wants in her life," answered Young Master Ru. "I heard rumors that Raelle Xiang runs after profits. In fact, she is only running after profits because she doesn''t know what else to do with her life. She is a nk sheet of paper but it''s a sheet of paper that is unwilling to let just anyone write anything on it. All in all, she is strong, mentally."

    "You were getting along well with her,"mented Xia Zhao. "Are you nning on taking in her as a disciple?"

    "I have only one disciple," replied Ru. "I don''t n on changing that."

    "Waters that are too clear can''t house fish and masters that are too critical can''t find disciple."

    Ru chuckled softly, "I''m not being critical."

    "Ru, aren''t you tired?" asked Xia Zhao. Ru arched one of his brows at him in question. "If I remember correctly, you''d always get punished to kneel and copy scriptures or pick the Buddha beads. I thought you didn''t like doing it."

    "It''s a good way to grind your temperament," replied Ru.

    "You still need to grind your temperament?" asked Xia Zhao with a snort. "You''re leaving no ce for others by doing this."

    "Mr. Xia Zhao, I, this young master have decided to follow your recipe of staying young."

    "Huh?" he was dumbfounded.

    "By walking slowly in life, won''t I be aging slowly as well?"

    Xia Zhao burst outughing, "Where did this bizarre thoughte from, Young Master Ru?"

    "From my brain," replied Ru calmly. "Oh, and if you''re thinking about going through Raelle to get to her aunt, don''t bother. It won''t work." The topic jumped so suddenly that even Xia Zhao couldn''t keep track of it.

    "You know, it''s nice when you do that," he tried to keep up his smile but it was difficult to do so in this person''s presence.

    "Don''t get me wrong," said Ru. "You never told her, did you? About the agreement between your grandparents?"

    Xia Zhao went silent when he heard that question. Of course, he never told Mu Chenyan anything about that. First, they were very young and he didn''t think it was right to let her know that. And when they grew up, she took a flight and went away. Leaving everything behind without even looking back.

    "She doesn''t know," he answered. "It''s better that way."

    "I have a very serious question for you, Mr. Xia Zhao," spoke Ru seriously. He even came to sit opposite him and poured himself a cup of tea as he continued, "What do you really feel for Ms. Mu Chenyan? Is it love or is it just your sense of responsibility?" He took a sip of the tea leisurely before adding, "To be honest, I won''t mind if it''s really just your sense of responsibility. I can''t me you for it. It''s in your blood. We, from the Xia n, take our words very seriously. We are willing to lose our life but aren''t willing to go back on our words. So, your sense of responsibility is understandable. But it''s only understandable to me. It won''t be for everyone. You need to really think about what you really are feeling right now."

    "I hate talking to you," said Xia Zhao. "From the moment, you''re a kid. I hated talking to you."

    "You aren''t the only one," replied Ru. "Maybe that''s why earlier, I had such a rxed moment with Raelle and didn''t mind her questions either. We both end up saying facts that people don''t want to hear. She is a curious child, looking for answers."

    "And you''re the walking treasure of knowledge," added Xia Zhao.

    "I''ll take that as apliment."

    "Of course, you will! Has there ever been anything that didn''t sound like apliment to you?"

    "Stop getting worked up just because you''re still avoiding thinking clearly about what''s in your heart. You can''t always run from it. It''s not possible. Just know that."

    Xia Zhao went silent when he heard that and didn''t continue this conversation. He didn''te here to chit-chat anyway. And obviously, Young Master Ru wasn''t the best of people to look for a chit-chat because this person will end up angering you to death eventually!

 Chapter 923: My Wish

    Chapter 923: My WishEnjoying the sweet aftertaste of the fresh tea, Xia Zhao''s thoughts were wandering off. And finally, he couldn''t help saying, "Young Master Ru, I disagree with you."

    Ru lifted his brows and questioned, "Is that so?"

    "You and Raelle aren''t simr," he stated. "She is the peace, you''re the storm."

    Ru didn''t refute his words and offered a sly smile.

    Getting this reaction, he shook his head. In fact, it was very obvious. Ru''s temperament was different from Raelle''s.

    "By the way, when did you allowed shadow guards to follow you? No, since when did you need someone to protect you? Aren''t you enough to protect yourself?"

    Ru sighed very heavily disying his mood, "They aren''t following me to protect me."

    "Then?"

    "They are here to keep an eye on me."

    Xia Zhao burst outughing, "You really lost the n''s faith in you. Everyone is afraid you''d run away again. This is so funny. The mighty Young Master Ru is being watched."

    Ru gave him a look, "You canugh all you want, little uncle. This young master doesn''t care. And let''s be real. If I want to escape, no one would be able to stop me. If I was so easily caged, wouldn''t that ruin my prestige?"

    Xia Zhao stoppedughing and nodded in agreement. He could argue with those words. If Ru really wanted, he''d still find a way out. He nced at Ru who was drinking tea elegantly and sighed. Once upon a time, this young master was chasing freedom.

    "Did you stop chasing freedom?" asked Xia Zhao.

    "No, I found my freedom," replied Ru. "It was right there in front of me all along. I was too blind to realize it."

    Xia Zhao gave Ru a probing look. He knew Ru ran from the n when he was young. And he disappeared for a decade and yet, in the end, he came back home on his own. So, he wasn''t lying. Maybe his freedom really lied back home.

    "Help me send something to the Xiang house," said Ru and didn''t exin anything further as he stood up and get back to his own things. This sentence was mysterious but Xia Zhao didn''t question or probe about it. If Ru brought this up, it must be something important.

    Meanwhile, the one they were talking about was dragging her husband toward the banyan tree she learned about. When Shui Xian came back with the fish feed, he found Raelle crouched down beside the fish pond as she craned her neck to look in the pond. She looked like she was studying the fish.

    And when he asked, she replied, "Someone just told me that there are some very interesting fishes in the pond. I found silver carp just now but it slipped away."

    Shui Xian listened to her as she even imparted her knowledge to him regarding the ces in this temple. Even Shui Xian didn''t know about these things so he listened attentively. In fact, he''d listen to whatever Raelle said so there was nothing really new or special about that. He was just that kind of a husband who liked to listen to his wife.

    "There is another interesting ce, let''s go over there," said Raelle when she dragged him along. Following the directions she was told earlier, she arrived at the tform where the aged-old banyan tree was.

    It was really huge and gave off a majestic and equally historic feeling. But it was lush green and the branches were dancing with the winds leisurely. As thest hues of the sun fell through the branches, it made this ce look peaceful. But then again, Raelle thought everything in this temple looked peaceful. Perhaps it had to do with the fact that it was a secluded ce or more to do with the fact that it was a holy sanctuary.

    Whatever it was, the clean and silent environment was certainly to her liking.

    The thin and long ribbon strips tied to the branches were also swaying currently. She looked on for a moment. Each ribbon seemed to have a wish written on it. No one could tell what was on her mind right now.

    Noticing her interest in this, Shui Xian knew that she had never done this kind of a thing before. Well, she wasn''t like him to begin with. It was he who even used coins to wish on wishing fountains. He was just like that.

    While Raelle was closely observing the tree that was hundreds of years old, he ran off and brought back two ribbons for them. He walked over to her and asked, "Wifey, how about you also write a wish?"

    "Will it work?" she asked instinctively but suddenly recalled what Ru had told her so she nodded in the end. "I heard there is a tree spirit here."

    Shui Xian chuckled his head, "Oh? Do you believe that?"

    "Whether I do or not, doesn''t really matter. Everyone else seems to believe it," she told him. "Or else there won''t be so many wishes here."

    "Okay, let''s write our own then," he said. "Whether it works or not, we''ll see."

    Raelle nodded her head and took the writing brush before she froze. Oh, right. She still didn''t know what to wish for. What was there she could ask for? What could she possibly ask for? She was thinking so seriously that one might think that a genie granted her a wish and asked her to choose wisely what she wished for or she''ll lose her chance.

    But perhaps, that was really Raelle''s mindset right now. She was awfully serious about this.

    Even when Shui Xian was done writing, she just stood there at a loss. Shui Xian didn''t disturb her. He just observed her closely. He didn''t want to rush her. To be honest, he wanted her to look inside herself and find what she wanted. There must be something.

    Finally, the tip of her brush touched the ribbon as she wrote seriously. Shui Xian didn''t want to peek but his eyes inadvertently caught a sigh at what she was writing and were left stunned.

    She wrote a very simple sentence, ''I wish that my family stays healthy and happy.''

    It was just that. After all that thinking, it was still just that sentence. Simple but it disyed her whole heart. It was almost like she exposed her deepest thoughts through this sentence.

    Because it was very easy to tell where this sentence came from. Raelle''s life was all about her family. It''d be a surprise if she didn''t add them to her wish. Even if it was a wish of a lifetime, she''d still wish for the same thing because nothing else was more important to her than family.

    Sighing helplessly, Shui Xian said, "Baby, won''t you wish for something for yourself?"

    Raelle looked at him and said, "Isn''t this for myself?"

    "What about your own health and happiness?" asked Shui Xian.

    "If my family is happy and healthy, they''ll make sure to keep me happy and healthy," she replied. "You know, my day brightens up when you give me that beautiful smile. So, in turn, I be happy. If you think about it carefully, this wish is entirely for myself."

    Shui Xian shook his head and hugged her all of a sudden.

    He didn''t say anything and looked at his own wish, ''I wish that my Raelle is full of smiles in life and never has to get hurt again.''

    He suddenly felt like it was okay if she didn''t know what to wish for herself. He was here. His wishes will always have her. Wasn''t that enough? He''ll continue to wish in her ce and work on making those wishese true. If his smiles were behind her happiness, he''ll keep smiling for her without getting tired.

    "Let''s tie them up," said Raelle.

    "Okay," he agreed. "They say the higher to tie the ribbon, the more chances that it''lle true."

    "Hm? Really?" Then she looked up and then she looked at her legs. Was she supposed to fly up there now?

    Seeing her reaction, Shui Xian pressed his lips together to suppress hisughter. He bent down a little and hugged her legs as he pushed her up. Raelle instinctively ced her hands on his shoulder and asked, "What are you doing?"

    "I''m taking the role of being yourdder," he replied. "I''ll lift you up so you can even snatch the stars from the sky much less a wish."

    "Cheesy!" shemented.

    Shui Xian chuckled, "You already know I''m cheesy. Now, tie up your ribbon at the highest branch you can reach. Don''t hold back. Or maybe you can sit on my shoulders to reach even higher?"

    "No, this is enough," she said. "My wish isn''t that urgent."

    Then she tied up the ribbon with a tight knot making sure it won''t fall down from the wind that easily. Satisfied with her work, she tapped on Shui Xian''s head, "Put me down."

    Shui Xian lifted her down a little but before her feet could touch the ground, he kissed her lips and ced her down.

 Chapter 924: Rain On Sentiments

    Chapter 924: Rain On Sentiments"I lost half my life climbing up here..."

    Raelle eyes swept over and found the person who said it. Who else would be if not her sticky best friend? She really had some luck in life. Both her husband and best friend were sticky people around her. Too clingy!

    This fool said he''de and he really came without any hesitation. And now, he was panting with his hands on his knees like he was about to die. Raelle of course felt no sympathy for him.

    "Then maybe you should increase your time for exercise," suggested Raelle.

    Hyson was horrified and straightened up saying, "My stamina is already very good. Three days a week is already too much."

    "Why are you here?" she asked.

    "Why can''t I be here?" he asked as he walked over to her side. It really took him a while to get here. By the time, he managed to climb up the stairs, the sun had already set. Young monks could be seen lighting up thenterns in the temple. "I should be asking, how can you leave me behind? Didn''t you think about your best friend for once before deciding to make this trip?"

    "I thought you had no time these days," said Raelle. "After all, you''re busy with your matchmaking business."

    Hyson sat down beside her on the stone bench as he looked at her face, "How can anything else be more important than you, Ellie? You''re really underestimating your position in my heart and in my life."

    Raelle offered him a bottle of water, "Drink. Don''t die on me. I''m in no mood for a funeral."

    Hyson made a face at her but still took the water, "I''ve told you a long time ago, I definitely won''t leave your side so easily. I found my purpose to live the moment I met you." He drank the water before adding, "It''s to annoy you!"

    "Why don''t you find a better purpose to live?" she asked.

    Hyson shook his head, "Nope. I''m satisfied with this one. No, I''m very satisfied with this." He looked around and asked, "Where is Xian Ge?"

    "He went to get our dinner," replied Raelle. "He said eating out here will be like a romantic date under the starry sky."

    Hyson frowned, "Xian Ge really knows how to be romantic." He drank some more water to catch his breath properly before saying, "Why do I feel like we''ve gone back in time? They have no electricity here. They are still lighting upnterns." Without waiting for her reply, he went on with hismentary, "But that does give this ce a surreal feeling."

    "Oh, does this feel like a ce that reminds Prince Hyson of old times when he used to live in that majestic pce and roamed around in the elegant gardens with thepany of the moon in the sky?"

    Hyson looked up at Shui Xian who said that as he came to sit in front of him with that beautiful smile of his. But clearly, that smile was teasing Hyson right now.

    "Your Xian Ge is asking something," said Raelle. "Shouldn''t you answer, Hyson? Or perhaps,moners like us have no right to be impudent with royalty like you?"

    Hyson gaped at his best friend and said, "Ellie, your husband is a bad influence on you."

    "I don''t think so," replied Raelle.

    Hyson shook his head and said to Shui Xian, "Xian Ge, what have you done?"

    "Nothing much. I''m just trying my best to dye her in the color of my love," replied Shui Xian cheekily.

    "Don''t you feel embarrassed saying all that?" asked Hyson with genuine curiosity.

    "Not at all," was Shui Xian''s response. Then he turned to Raelle, "I''ve talked to someone. We''ll have our dinner here in twenty minutes."

    "Okay," said Raelle.

    Hyson looked at the time, "Isn''t it too early for dinner?"

    "There is a specific time for meals here," informed Shui Xian.

    Hyson shrugged as he rubbed his stomach, "It''s good for me. I''m super hungry after climbing up here." He suddenly clung to Raelle''s arm saying, "Ellie, I almost thought I won''t see you again." He even pretended to wipe his fake tears.

    Before she could push him away, he left her arm and said, "Let''s keep some distance. It''s too hot for hugs."

    Shui Xianughed at his antics, "It''s cooler here at this time."

    "Still, summer is not a hug season," Hyson seemed to be very serious about it. "Summer should be dered as a season where people should keep their distance from others."

    "As always, you have a lot to say."

    "I was born with so many things to say," said Hyson. "And because I didn''t start learning how to speak until veryte in my life, I''ve already dyed. Imagine how many words I missed out on in those years."

    "Why did youe here?" asked Raelle.

    Hyson tsked at her, "Are you really questioning me that? Do you think I came to ruin your two people''s world? I told you I''m not here to serve as the third wheel. I have my reasons."

    "Then go about your business and stop disturbing us," said Raelle.

    Hyson touched his chest as he looked hurt, "Ellie, that hurts. How can you so easily tell me to scram?"

    "Like this," started Raelle. "Scram!"

    Hyson chuckled, "Good thing I''ve got a thick skin and your scram has stopped working on me long ago." He paused to look at Shui Xian''s amused smile and chose to ignore it. So what if he was making a fool of himself again? It was better to give these two some entertainment unless they both get depressed here. "Ellie, I''m about to leave. Don''t you want to spend time with me?"

    "You aren''t going to Mars," said Raelle. "And even if you were, I still have the ability to find my way there."

    "You really know how to rain on my sentiments,"mented Hyson. "Can you think from my standpoint?"

    "I''ll have to lose some brain cells to achieve that and I''m not willing."

 Chapter 925: [Bonus chapter] Happiest

    Chapter 925: [Bonus chapter] Happiest"You''re going back to join the production set, right?" asked Shui Xian from Hyson.

    "Yes," replied Hyson. "I feel like something is wrong with this production."

    Shui Xian raised his brow at him inquisitively.

    "Don''t get me wrong, Xian Ge. But just think about it," started Hyson. "When I first joined the production, I got into an ident. And when I went back after recovering, our Ellie got into an ident. Don''t you find it weird? And don''t say it can be a coincidence. It can be. Sure. But you never know."

    "I thought you''re not superstitious,"mented Shui Xian.

    "You shouldn''t be surprised, husband," said Raelle. "He is someone who actually believes in ghosts."

    "We are not having this discussion again," Hyson put his foot down with force. "Whether you like it or not, there are ghosts. Let''s not continue!"

    "Stop talking nonsense," said Raelle. "No matter what you can''t escape now. You signed a contract and your conscience won''t allow you to mess up with the progress of the shooting. So, just be a good boy and get your work done."

    "That''s all I can do," he replied. "Oh, did I tell you that I''m going for an audition tomorrow?" He suddenly sat straight and scrolled through his phone before sighing in relief, "Ipletely forgot about the audition. Good thing it''s scheduled past noon. I''ll be able to get back on time. Phew!"

    "This is a very good example of how Prince Hyson forgets the world even if it involves his best friend," joked Shui Xian. "You should be d I''m clear about your feelings for my wife. If it was anyone else, they''d eat your vinegar all the time and see you with suspicion."

    Hyson shrugged, "But the point is Xian Ge, it isn''t anyone else but you."

    Raelle added, "And it''s because it''s you, husband, that he is willing to act like this."

    Hyson nodded his head, "I might not look like it but I''m very smart and I know when and where to draw the line. You don''t have to worry about that. It''s just that Xian Ge, you''re the best. I don''t feel like drawing a line with you. If anything, I am the happiest that you''re my best friend''s husband. No one could be a better choice than you for her."

    Shui Xian went silent for a moment as he ced his hand on Raelle''s and said, "I feel ttered."

    "Don''t be so humble. Proudly take mypliment. After all, Prince Hyson doesn''tpliment just anyone, okay?"

    Both Shui Xian and Hyson ended upughing at that while Raelle was left staring at these two.

    Hyson sighed, "Xian Ge, it''s been a while since you and I sat together like this. Let''s do it more often." Then he shook his head, "Well, it''s not like we both have that much time. But let''s find time to do this. You''re one of my favorite people in the world. You should know that. If you don''t, I''ll keep reminding you of that."

    "Love the crow and love its house," said Shui Xian. "Are you following that concept?"

    Hyson shook his head, "I think I told you this before, my liking for you have nothing to do with you being Ellie''s husband. Well, it does add a few more points to my liking but I liked you even before that."

    Shui Xian didn''t know how to face Hyson''s undisguised appreciation for him. It was so obvious and unrestrained that Shui Xian didn''t know how to react. See, it was always a bit nerve-wracking to look into Raelle and Hyson''s eyes. For different reasons. Some reasons that he couldn''t even voice out.

    They both were too real and left others withplicated feelings.

    "Which script did you choose?" asked Ralle.

    "You already know," was Hyson''s response. "There is no way you didn''t know which one I''d choose in the end."

    "How would I know? I''m not a mind reader? How can I know your thoughts?"

    Hyson snorted at that, "If you can''t read my thoughts, no one else can." Rubbing his hands, he asked, "What did you guys do today? Aftering here?"

    "We prayed, then had lunch, then strolled around this ce and saw some interesting scenery. We even wrote wishes on ribbons and tied them to that old tree. Oh, we feed the fish as well. All in all, we had a very busy day," told Raelle.

    "What did you wish for?" asked Hyson curiously. "Don''t tell me you wished for the happiness and health of your family?"

    "Wow!" Shui Xian eximed in amazement at how Hyson struck at the first ball. This boy was as amazing as ever.

    Seeing Shui Xian''s reaction, Hyson rubbed his brows, "You really did that?"

    "What''s wrong with it?" she asked. "And who set the rule that I can''t wish for that? It''s up to me, no?"

    "You should say that after thinking about it for a long time, you came up with nothing so you chose the safest route for yourself."

    "Hyson."

    "Yes?"

    "Shut up!"

    "I don''t feel like it." Hyson looked at Shui Xian, "Why didn''t you say anything?"

    "I didn''t see anything wrong with that wish," replied Shui Xian. "It was so Raelle-like. Something she''d do."

    Hyson gave his friend a look, "Ellie, you''ve be predictable."

    "It''s time for dinner," announced Shui Xian. "Let''s wash our hands and have something to eat. Especially you, Fai. You need the energy to continue your nonsense."

    "I agree," said Hyson solemnly. "My energy bar is red. And red means danger. I urgently need to replenish my energy. After that, I''ll deal with you, Ellie."

    "Deal with me?" asked Raelle. "As if you can."

    "Oh, I assure you, only I can!"

    "Okay, stop it both of you," Shui Xian intervened. "Both of you need to stop. We''ll continue thister on." He didn''t know why these two were acting like this. But then again, he never understood the way they interacted so he''d just go with the flow again.

 Chapter 926: Dating Coach

    Chapter 926: Dating Coach"Where is the meat?" asked Hyson when he looked at the vegetarian spread before his eyes. "Where is my braised duck, or roasted mutton, or fried chicken, even poached fish would do."

    He looked up at Raelle and Shui Xian who were eating silently without anyints and felt like he was ying a joke here. Why was he the only one affected? What''s up with these people? He never had any expectations for his best friend but what happened to his Xian Ge?

    "Just eat or scram!" said Raelle before she went back to clipping some veggies with her wooden chopsticks and bit them.

    Hyson looked like his soul just left his body. He felt like going into a corner to draw circles on the ground. No one loved this baby. How pitiful!

    Of course, he understood that he couldn''t find meat at this temple. But after using all his energy to climb up, he really needed some protein in his body to keep up. Only vegetables won''t do. He was a bonafide food chaser. Good food was his life.

    While grumbling mentally, he decided to eat whatever he had since he was already hungry. Honestly speaking, it was very delicious even though there was no meat. The food was enjoyable.

    Looking at the atmosphere between Raelle and Shui Xian as they ate, Hyson couldn''t help saying, "The only missing part here is good music. Do you want me to sing to make it more romantic for you two?"

    Shui Xian nced at Hyson and said, "I don''t mind. You have to ask for my wife''s opinion though."

    Hyson sighed, "Why should I ask someone who can''t even appreciate music? I asked her to y piano. She was good at it. Very good at it. So good that it felt like a machine was ying the piano. It was just that wless and emotionless."

    Raelle put down her chopsticks and said, "It''s all about hitting the notes."

    "No, it''s not," insisted Hyson. "I''ll never be able to make you understand my point because, at the end of the day, you justck the cells that can perceive music." He sipped some soup and went on, "By the way, we have been sitting outside for so long. Why aren''t there any mosquitos? Usually, they follow me like they have a crush on me or something."

    Shui Xianughed at Hyson''s analogy and didn''t know what to say. This boy really knew how to make othersugh.

    "He is right," agreed Raelle. "I just noticed that too. Why is that so?"

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched when he noticed both of them looking at him with their eyes that could unnerve anyone. But at the same time, they looked like two curious kids.

    "I heard they have some secret medicine recipe to keep mosquitos away from the periphery of the temple."

    "That works?" asked Hyson in interest.

    Shui Xian shrugged, "Isn''t it working for now?"

    "Right, it is..." After Hyson was done eating, he rubbed his stomach but didn''t feel satisfied. He was full but thatpartment reserved for meat was still craving meat. Sadly, he couldn''t do anything about that right now. "When I was leaving home, Mr. Zhai Kuijun came over to visit."

    "Oh?"

    Hyson nodded to Raelle as he continued to give her all the details, "Your dad isn''t even around so his purpose is clear. He came for my mum. I just wonder why."

    "That might have something to do with your grandparents," the answer came from Shui Xian unexpectedly. Both Hyson and Raelle turned their attention to him at the same time. "Your maternal grandparents are in the city. And they ran into Aunt Yue and Yanyan the other day at the mall as well. After that, your maternal grandfather got sick as well. And they seemed to be looking for your mum now."

    "Xian Ge, you''re well-informed," said Hyson. "Even I know nothing about this."

    "I heard it from Yanjun," answered Shui Xian. "He gave me all the details."

    "Aren''t you getting too close to that friend of yourstely?" asked Hyson.

    "Isn''t it because you led him to me for dating advice?" retorted Shui Xian.

    Hyson rubbed his nose, "He couldn''t even keep it a secret that I asked him to look for you?" Almost instantly forgetting about it, he asked curiously, "So, how are the dating sses? Are your lectures working?"

    "Wouldn''t you know it better?" asked Shui Xian. "I had been at the hospital all this time. It''s you who had been keeping an eye on them."

    "Well, I do things whole-heartedly," said Hyson. "But still, I don''t know what''s really going on. You have the inside story."

    "I can then assure you that your efforts paid off greatly because they have been acting like some teenagers in love,"mented Shui Xian. "I never thought they''re this bad at dating. It''s like you have to guide them through everything or they''ll end up messing everything up because of their own reservations. It''s tiring to be a dating coach of such a couple."

    Raelle caught up on some detail and asked, "You''re giving advice to Xiang Wai as well?"

    Shui Xian scratched his nose and nodded, "Yes. I was gonna tell you that. Your sister also reached out to me. Her exact words were that she has no one around her with a sessful rtionship experience. Oh, she also added that even though my first rtionship failed I still managed to learn something from it and built a better one from scratch. So, I happened to exactly what she was looking for."

    Hyson went silent when he heard that. What was he to say that he expected such words from Major Wai? It really wasn''t a surprise that she had such thoughts. But it was unexpected that she looked for Shui Xian.

    "She isn''t even close to her sister but she is trying to get advice from her brother-inw? Only Major Wai would do something like that," evaluated Hyson with humor dancing in his eyes.

    "True," Raelle nodded along with her best friend.

 Chapter 927: [Bonus chapter] Tree Spirit

    Chapter 927: [Bonus chapter] Tree Spirit"I don''t know if I should say it, but..."

    "Xian Ge, just say it," said Hyson.

    "Then I''d say that Major Xiang Wai is a bit... silly when ites to love,"mented Shui Xian. "That''s my personal opinion after talking to her. She acts like a little girl in love. It''s no wonder she ended up hurting herself so badly. She is the kind of a person who loves you as if her life depends on it. I don''t know if I should say it''s a good or very dangerous thing."

    Raelle won''t have any opinion regarding this topic but Hyson did agree with Shui Xian, "You''re right. I also noticed. Even after getting hurt by love. She is once again acting like the same person who was willing to do anything for love. She isn''t guarded at all."

    "But then again, you can never fall in love if you''re guarded all the time," added Shui Xian. "You shouldn''t be too critical when ites to feelings, Little Fai. Remember that."

    "Why should I remember that? I''m not the one looking for a rtionship."

    "Who looks for such things? It justes into your life unannounced. No matter how many doors you lock, when the storm of lovees, it obliterates everything in its way. You should never underestimate it. Never ever."

    Hyson wasn''t that big of a fan of this topic when it involved himself. It wasn''t like he was running from love or anything but he wasn''t actively or passively looking for it either.

    "Hyson, didn''t your mom tell you that she met her parents?" asked Raelle.

    Hyson shook his head, "No. Even Yanyan didn''t tell me anything. I can''t believe the beautifuldies I love had started keeping secrets from me now. I''m hurt."

    "You didn''t notice anything different about those two these days?"

    Hyson thought carefully and shook his head again, "Not really. Everything is the same. Yanyan is super busy with their brand work and Mum''s been working on making your bridal gown. Both seemed pretty normal. The only odd point would be the other day when I came home, Mum cried andined to Opa about how Yanyan yelled at her, and in turn, Yanyan had to apologize. It was a pretty funny scene."

    Raelle analyzed his words beforeing to a conclusion, "That means you have nothing to worry about. It seems the shadow of your maternal grandparents on Yue is no more. She isn''t concerned about them or their opinions. In fact, she is more concerned about Yanyan''s mild temper towards her."

    "Who told Yanyan to spoil her rotten? Now, she has to bear with it as well. It''s Yanyan who treated her so well that even a mild change can tick off my mum."

    He seemed to be gloating and found this situation even funnier. Well, as long as those twodies knew how to have fun who cared how they yed? He didn''t care at all. He was extremely rxed from the time his mother moved in with the Xiang family. He was so worry-free that he felt like floating. After all, he was clear about the fact that in the Xiang family, everyone would take care of his mother.

    Even if the only person around was Raelle who didn''t even know how to take care of people, it won''t stop her from doing her best.

    Hyson suddenly stood up and said, "I''m going for a walk. Even though this meal isn''t enough to make me fat, I should still take a walk. And also, look around this ce."

    Raelle looked in the direction he was going without blinking.

    "What''s up?" asked Shui Xian.

    "Nothing," replied Raelle. "I''m just thinking how bad his excuse was."

    "He was making an excuse?"

    "Yes," said Raelle. "He is clearly going towards that old tree to make a wish. But acting so nonchnt. His acting is so bad. Do you think his debut movie will work with this acting level?"

    Shui Xian pressed his lips together and stopped himself from saying that it was only her who could see through his lies. In fact, Shui Xian thought Hyson was very natural about it. So, he wasn''t worried about Hyson''s debut movie at all.

    Hyson really went to find the old tree that he heard about from Raelle. It wasn''t just Raelle actually. He had heard about this legend from Huang Shuyi before as well. He was told that it was a revered and sacred ce.

    He got a ribbon and wrote down his wish before he ran to the banyan tree. He looked at the big tree that was shrouded in darkness at this time and gulped nervously. He really chose the worst time toe here. Even though there werenterns around but they only lit the pathway. The tree was still shrouded in the darkness looking a little scary.

    Hyson took a deep breath and found a ce to tie his wish ribbon then he looked conflicted as he said out loud, "It''s so dark. Can the tree spirit even read my wish in this darkness? What if he is sleepy and doesn''t bother looking at my wish? Or what if he can''t even read?"

    The more he spoke, the more weird things came to his mind.

    "Should I say it out loud to make it better?" he scratched his head and put his hands together to earnestly pray. "Mr. Tree Spirit!" He again thought about what he wanted to say and went on, "My name is Yue Fai. And I don''t want to wish for anything for myself. I only have one wish in life, please, I just want to hear my mum calling my name. Just once. That''s all I''m asking for. I know it''s an impossible dream but dreams should be big. You can definitely make miracles happen." He paused and added, "Oh, and I''m sorry for disturbing your rest. That''s very rude of me. I sincerely apologize."

    "Hahahaha!"

    Hearing that silveryughter in the air, Hyson froze.

 Chapter 928: Little Push

    Chapter 928: Little PushSo the scene was something like this: Dark night, an old majestic-looking tree with ribbons tied to its branches fluttering in the slow breeze, not a single person in sight, only the sound of insects could be heard from the forest. But all of a sudden, you hear a peal ofughter that sounded like a sound from hell!

    Hyson was mentally calling for his mother already at this scene.

    Damn! He was scared of ghosts the most! Who didn''t know that already?

    Okay, if he was being honest, thatughter sounded pleasant. But in this kind of situation, he didn''t have the heart to appreciate or tell the difference because all his nerves were taut and so was his body.

    Taking a step back, he looked around nervously and stuttered, "W-Who is it?"

    Theughter stopped and he got the response, "Tree spirit. Weren''t you just looking for me, child?" The voice sounded old and wise. Even Hyson almost believed it for a moment until he recalled that ghosts could imitate any voice to lure their prey.

    Oh, shit!

    He was the prey now!

    Mum!

    Yanyan!

    Ellie!

    Help!

    He was supposed to run for his life but Hyson really couldn''t move. He was brave when it came to other things but not this. This was his biggest weakness.

    He slowly took another step back and tried to speak normally, "Mr. Tree Spirit, sorry! Really sorry for disturbing you! Please, don''t eat me. I''m still a little baby. I have so much food left to taste and so many ces to go. Also, I have only matchmaker one couple. My business is yet to boom. Please, let me go!"

    "Pfft!"

    Hyson shuddered when he heard thatughter. He felt like the voice was echoing around him or maybe he was only scaring himself at this point but who cared? He was really scared now!

    "Thump!"

    Hyson was startled when he saw a shadow jump down from the tall tree and walked towards him. The silhouette was tall and lean. It was only after seeing those green eyes glinting in the darkness did Hyson figured out who was in front of him.

    Hyson suddenly lost the strength in his legs and sat down. Now that he knew it was a person, he finally could catch his breath. But this scary experience certainly did some damage to his nerves.

    He red at the person before him, "Who does that? I was almost scared to death!"

    Young Master Ru really didn''t expect this result. Who knew this guy would be so gullible? No, Ru had already seen that he wasn''t gullible. He had a sharpness in his eyes that he always covered with innocence. He wasn''t gullible at all. It must be that only because of his fear of ghosts, he became so simple-minded and easily deceived.

    Young Master Ru crouched down to look at his face. From thentern, the light slowly fell on the side of his face making it seem gentle but Hyson wasn''t a fool to really think that the person before him was actually gentle. If he was a fool, he wouldn''t have paid attention to Young Master Ru just because of those eyes.

    Hyson found it actually strange how the first time he met Raelle, what pulled him to her was her eyes and the same happened with this person before him. The reason he remembered this person was also those eyes.

    "This Young Master didn''t even do anything to scare you yet," he heard that pleasant sounded voice. "It''s appropriate to say that you, scared yourself. You have quite an imaginative mind. It''s a good thing and a bad thing at the same time. Your mind would be cooking up stories to keep you entertained but the same imagination would keep finding reasons to hurt you as well."

    Hyson pouted in response, "It''s clearly you who scared me. What were you even doing up there?"

    Young Master Ru lifted his left and showed it him what he held in his hand.

    "My drone got stuck on the tree," replied Ru. "I was just taking it off."

    Hyson pressed his lips together before asking softly, "Isn''t climbing the tree disrespectful to Mr. Tree Spirit?"

    Ru almost could hold back theughter when he heard that question from Hyson. Oh, so he didn''t just look innocent, he actually was a little pure child. How adorable!

    "I definitely asked for permission," replied Ru in a very serious manner that almost fooled Hyson. Yes, almost!

    "Do you think I''m a fool?"

    Ru shook his head and his voice suddenly became that old and wise one Hyson heard before, "I assure you, child, that the permission was granted."

    Hyson gaped at him in disbelief and felt a burst of anger, "You!"

    Ru tilted his head slightly as he took in Hyson''s expression and suddenly tapped his nose saying, "You''re very amusing."

    Hyson was taken aback by that tap on his nose. Huh! Was he just taken advantage of? Or was he thinking too much? He scrunched up his nose adorably making anyone feel like melting.

    "You''re making me feel like I''m bullying a child now,"mented Ru. "Stand up already."

    "Oh," Hyson rubbed his nose and pushed himself up. Thinking of something, he said, "By the way, you''re clearly bullying me. It''s not nice to use someone''s weakness against them."

    "If the world was so fair, wouldn''t we have already ascended to heaven?" derision was dripping from those words as Ru continued, "This is how the world works. We are all trying to take advantage of others'' weaknesses."

    Hyson wished he could argue with that but he couldn''t. He was sensible enough to know that everything Ru said was true. No one yed fair in this world.

    "Also, this young master wasn''t trying to take advantage of your weakness. It''s as I said. You scared yourself. I just gave you a little push."

    Looking at the way Ru smiled at him with that warm halo of thentern on the side of his face, Hyson didn''t know what to say.

 Chapter 929: [Bonus chapter] Not My Day

    Chapter 929: [Bonus chapter] Not My DayAs Ru turned to leave with his attention on the drone he held, Hyson followed behind instinctively. Not even looking up, Ru knew that he was following behind her maintaining an appropriate distance. With a devilish twinkle in his eyes, he asked, "Do you want me to lead you back to your resting quarters? I assure you, I''m capable of fighting any ghost."

    Hyson puffed up his cheek and humphed.

    "By the way, Kiddo, how do you know that the tree spirit is a male? It could be a female as well."

    Hyson lowered his head and didn''t say anything. He had been calling Mr. Tree Spirit but Ru was right. It could be a Miss Tree Spirit as well.

    "It could be," mumbled Hyson in a small voice.

    But Ru''s sharp senses actually heard it and he abruptly stopped. Turning around, he looked at Hyson, "You actually fell for that?"

    Hyson refused to reply to that and said, "Whether Mr. or Ms. I was still trying to be respectful!"

    "And do you think by doing that, your wish will be granted?" asked Ru in interest.

    Hyson''s face fell as he said, "It''d be great if it is granted. Or should I promise to burn incense diligently?"

    "Wow! You must be the first one who is thinking about bribing the spirits now." Ru didn''t continue down this line and instead said, "It seems you remember me."

    "My memory is still very good," he replied. "And besides, I don''t think you''re that easy to forget."

    Ru raised a brow at him and said narcissistically, "Indeed. This Young Master is certainly difficult to forget. People end up remembering me for life." Either as a dream or as a nightmare. Of course, he kept thest sentence to himself. But Hyson could tell there was more to that sentence than what he just heard.

    He turned around and started walking towards his quarters. Hyson was still following without realizing it. Well, in his opinion, they were going to the resting quarters and he''d find Raelle and Shui Xian there. But he didn''t know that the young master before him actually had his own separate ce to live in this temple.

    It was only after entering the courtyard, did Hyson frown.

    As someone was about to step up from the shadows to stop him, one look from Ru stopped that person and go back into the shadows. Hyson looked around the courtyard and found that Ru entered a room with the drone still in his hands.

    Once he stood at the door of the room, he was shocked to see so many mechanical parts scattered on the table. Twoputer screens were also lit up showing aplex algorithm. He didn''t understand that at all. He was contemting whether to enter or not.

    "You can juste inside," said Ru.

    "Shouldn''t you be guarded against a stranger who followed you?" asked Hyson.

    "Between the two of us, you should be more careful. I look like the tiger luring the little sheep like you into my den," remarked Ru. "Also, how do you know I''m not guarded? It''s just that you seem very harmless."

    "Maybe that''s just a facade," Hyson pointed out.

    Ru chuckled, "Sure it is."

    "You don''t believe it?"

    "People who wear facades don''t talk about it," replied Ru. "But the real question is, why are you following me?"

    "Because I don''t want to go back to be the third wheel," he muttered. Even though Ru heard that he didn''t pursue that topic at all.

    "Then take a seat," offered Ru as he turned on amp and picked up tools to dismantle the drone he had carried in. Seeing how attentively Ru was working, Hyson also paid full attention to what he was doing.

    "I thought there was no electricity here,"mented Hyson offhandedly.

    "There isn''t," answered Ru while working on the parts in his hands nimbly. Before Hyson could ask why hisputers and stuff were working, Ru continued, "I have my own sr supplies for electricity."

    "Last time, we met at a bar while you were mixing drinks. And now, we are here at a temple. Don''t you think this equation is wrong?"

    "Why? One is a ce of indulgence and the other is a ce of worship. Both shouldn''t even be on the same spectrum and yet you met the same person at both ces. Kind of hard to believe, right?"

    Hyson nodded his head, "I really never thought I''d see you here."

    "Life works on uncertainties," said Ru. "You should be used to it by now." Taking a pause, he added, "Also, there is no rule that a person who visits a ce of debauchery can''t be found at temples. There are always two sides to a person. For instance, a murderer likes to brutally kill his victims but the same murderer has been raising countless orphans all on his own. Now, tell me, is he a bad person or a good person?"

    Hyson was silent for a while before saying, "He is wrong for killing people but he is also good for providing for children. But thew will punish him for murder."

    "Exactly!" said Ru. "Why? Because we as humans like to see the worst of others first. We don''t wanna see the goodness. No matter what you do, your focus will always be on the bad aspect of life."

    "I never thought about it this way," said Hyson.

    "Of course, you didn''t. You''re still young. You''ll get there."

    Hyson cupped his face as he stared at Ru working and couldn''t helpmenting, "I don''t think you''re an easygoing person. Why have you been so easy to talk to with me?"

    "Should I be offended? I''m certainly the most gentlemanly person you''d find around here," imed young master Ru shamelessly.

    "Nope," said Hyson. "You''re not what you appear to be."

    Ru chuckled, "Today really isn''t my day." He even shook his head. He really should have checked the almanac today. Why was he running into so honest people all of a sudden?

 Chapter 930: Turtle Soup

    Chapter 930: Turtle SoupHyson continued to observe the simple furnishing of the room with keen interest. And through his observation, he was able to notice quite a few details. The interior might be simple but everything was high-quality. That wasn''t the surprising part since Hyson could already tell that the young master before him was from a wealthy family.

    But now, he was thinking about it deeply. It seemed he was being very shallow when he assumed that the person before him was just another rich scion. From what he noticed, Young Master Ru''s background wasn''t all that simple. It could also be said that the background of this person was terrifying.

    He watched how Ru fixed the drone and used the remote to test it before a satisfied expression appeared on his face. Then he took out chocte from somewhere and started munching on it while his one hand continued to tap on the keyboard. Lines of codes appeared on theputer screen but Hyson didn''t understand any of it.

    "Why are there so many eyes following you? Isn''t it ufortable?"

    If he hadn''t spoken, Ru almost thought no one was around. His green eyes fell on Hyson once he heard that question. He was certain that Hyson didn''t learn martial arts. So, it came as a surprise that he could still tell they were actually alone in this courtyard.

    Young Master Ru had to say, Hyson was very sensitive to his surroundings. That was a good trait.

    On the other hand, Hyson didn''t think much about this trait of his. He was particrly sensitive to emotions and his surroundings from a young age. And from the moment, he ran into Ru, he felt like he was being watched. He could tell there was something in the darkness keeping an eye on him and he was particrly unsettled because of this knowledge. He could tell there was no malice in that gaze following him but it wasn''t a good feeling anyway.

    In fact, it was this vignce of his that saved him from paparazzi plenty of times. He wasn''t new to this feeling of being watched but this time it was still different.

    "It isn''t ufortable once you learn to ignore," replied Ru honestly.

    Hyson frowned slightly before asking, "Are you perhaps from the royal family or something? Why else would you need so many people to protect you?"

    "They aren''t here to protect me," told Ru casually. "They are keeping an eye on me."

    Hyson''s eyes widened when he heard that and ran over to her side before whispering, "Are you held captive? Blink once to let me know, I''ll find an escape route."

    Young Master Ru stared at him as Hyson blinked his eyes so innocently at him catching him really off-guard. He was not expecting this reaction. Not at all. So, he threw his head back and unrestrainedughter resounded in the room.

    Hyson was still seriously waiting for a response. Young Master Ru felt an urge to tap his nose once more but he held himself before he shook his head saying, "You have guts, I''ll give you that."

    "I know I have guts," Hyson took thatpliment happily. "If I didn''t, how else would I have snagged myself the most difficult person in the world as my best friend? That''s my proudest achievement in my whole life."

    "Do I look like a weak and helpless captive?" asked Young Master Ru seriously but that smirk was still ying on those lips as if it was permanently etched there.

    "You''re neither weak nor helpless,"mented Hyson. "I''m still gonna go with my earlier conjecture that you''re from a royal family."

    Ru neither agreed nor denied his words.

    Now, that Hyson stood close to his working table, he could see all the small machinery parts that he couldn''t even recognize at all. He looked at theputer screen and the codes had vanished. Now, the screen showed the image of a flowering nt. Hyson didn''t recognize what this nt was but it seemed to be glowing at night.

    "Your paperweight is so realistic,"mented Hyson. "It looks like a tiny turtle." He even poked the turtle shell and was startled a little when the turtle came out of the shell for real.

    "That''s a real turtle," said Ru. "Not a paperweight."

    "It''s so tiny," said Hyson as he continued to tease the turtle happily. "Who keeps turtles on their working desk?"

    "It likes it here," replied Ru.

    Hyson gulped suddenly and said, "I''m suddenly craving some turtle soup."

    Ru gave him a disbelieving look and he smiled sheepishly in response. Even the turtle felt his ''evil'' intentions and hid back in the shell from this ''monster'' who nned on turning it into soup!

    "You don''t look at me like that," said Hyson. "I haven''t had any meat today. So, I''m just craving it a little." He pouted, "I know I shouldn''t have such thoughts about your pet."

    "I won''t call it a pet," said Ru. "But I still won''t allow you to eat it."

    "I know I can''t eat it," muttered Hyson. "I was just saying."

    Ru pulled out a lollipop and offered it to him, "You can eat this instead. I can''t offer any meat. I would have gone fishing but I''m in no mood of kneeling once again in the meditation room, so this is all I''ve got for now."

    From that Hyson easily understood that Ru had already taken fish from the pond in the temple and even got punished for it. He almostughed out at the thought because honestly, he thought Ru was the person with the aura of a leader. So, imagining such a person was also punished really was entertaining.

    Unknowingly, Hyson stayed with Ru for three hours. Even he didn''t realize it had been so long and he only got up to leave when Ru said, "You should go back now to rest. It''s about to rain. You won''t be able to leave in a while."

    Hyson looked out and said, "The sky is full of stars. It''s not gonna rain."

    Ru just stared him at him, "It is about to rain."

    Hyson didn''t know why he could argue anymore and silently stood up to leave. He said goodbye and left. His earlier fright of ghosts was long forgotten. He found his way to the resting quarters and as soon as he stepped under the eves, he heard a rumbling sound before the rain came pouring down with vengeance.

    Hyson froze and looked back slowly before he said, "It''s raining."

 Chapter 931: [Bonus chapter] Im Sorry

    Chapter 931: [Bonus chapter] I''m SorryAmiah hade home to meet her father but unfortunately, Shui Koshing wasn''t home. It''s not like he was avoiding her, he was just that busy because of Shui Xian''s absence. He had been working tillte at night again.

    Amiah hade in the evening and patiently waited for her father.

    It was close to 10 o''clock when she went out of the house to take a walk. She was tired of sitting for so long. There wasn''t anything she could do. No matter how the house help tried to entertain her with snacks and drinks, they couldn''t sit down and talk to her. And there was no one else at home apart from the servants.

    She didn''t think about roaming around in the house as well. She didn''t know where to go since she had never really lived here. By the time, Shui Koshing and Shui Xian moved to Kia City, she had already separated herself from them and drawn a clear line between them. She wasn''t even familiar with the servants here.

    As she strolled outside the house, she noticed that the wall on one side was being demolished. She didn''t understand what kind of work was going on there. But she didn''t spend much time dwelling on it since it had nothing to do with her.

    She was the one who abandoned her ''Shui'' surname. Now, she actually had no right to be concerned about what was going on in this family. Feeling down, she sat down on the stairs leading to the door of the mansion.

    She was close to dozing off when the car came to stop before her. Shui Koshing alighted from the car while yawning. It was past his sleeping time. Sigh. He was really back to burning midnight oil just for his son''s sake. Being a father was really difficult.

    His eyes fell on Amiah who was dazed as she stared at her father under the soft glow of the lights, she realized that her father had aged. He wasn''t that young and vigorous man anymore. He even had silver hair now. The realization hit so strongly that she forgot how to react and dumbly stood up while looking at him.

    Shui Koshing''s eyes also paused on her face but he didn''t say anything immediately. He waited for a while and when he didn''t see that same anger radiating from her eyes as before, he felt like a weight lifted off his shoulders. He shook his head and strode towards the door.

    Seeing how she wasn''t following, he stopped to ask, "Are you nning to stand there for the whole night?"

    Amiah snapped back to reality and followed him in.

    "Old Master, should I serve dinner?" asked the maid who took the suit jacket and briefcase from his hands.

    Shui Koshing changed his shoes and nodded, "Yes, serve it. I''m starving."

    "Yes."

    He once again looked at his daughter and asked, "Have you eaten?"

    Amiah was startled when she realized that he was asking her and it took her a moment before she shook her head in response. Even though she was slow, Shui Koshing didn''t look to be in a hurry either and patiently waited for her response and only moved his eyes away once he got the response from her.

    "Then freshen up and eat something," said Shui Koshing. Although his voice wasn''t as warm as before, it wasn''t devoid of emotions either.

    It was obvious that he wasn''t the same father who used to wait for his daughter''s return. Truth be told, it had been a while since Shui Koshing lost any hope regarding his one and only daughter. For no other reason except for the fact that she hurt him way too much. He usually tried to not let her words get to him and just ignore her words since he thought she was young but he couldn''t do it anymore.

    He was indeed getting old. And after his wife''s death he was the loneliest one in this family and yet he had to take in the scorn of his only daughter. Of course, all of that hurt. Why else would he get sick at this age? He seemed to have more ailments than his peers.

    The problem was Shui Koshing''s health deteriorated because of the matters of the heart. It was difficult for the doctors to help with that. When he really needed support, both his children distanced themselves from him.

    Even until now, he didn''t know who told his daughter that it was his business rivals who did something to his wife''s car and that''s how she got into the ident. While it was true that one of their helpers was bribed and indeed messed with the car at home but the truth was, that car was driven out by Shui Koshing that day and he was the one who got hurt. And if his driver hadn''t been an experienced veteran, he might have also died the same day his wife did and for the longest time, he actually wished it really went that way.

    However, somehow the truth became that his wife died because of him.

    Strangely, for a long time, even he believed that to be true. Because all his investigations led to that result back then. It was only after meeting Mu Chenyan, that he learned some deeply hidden truths that really left him baffled.

    He sat down for dinner with Amiah and ate his meal silently. The atmosphere around them was too silent. None of them spoke. Perhaps, both had nothing really to speak.

    After a prolonged silence, Amiah lifted up her courage and said, "Dad, I''m sorry!"

    Shui Koshing''s chopsticks stopped midair before he resumed his movements. He didn''t say anything in response and it made Amiah restless and uneasy. She knew she shouldn''t be expecting him to forgive her so easily but she still felt a little disappointed.

    "I was reckless and naive," she added. "But no matter what, I shouldn''t have taken my anger out on you. I''m really sorry for hurting you so much."

    "I forgive you," said Shui Koshing. It startled Amiah as she stared into his eyes and realized that he was being sincere right now. He put down his chopsticks and looked straight at her, "After you''re done eating, the steward will take you to your room. Rest well."

 Chapter 932: Just For You

    Chapter 932: Just For YouThe resting quarters at the temple were a lot simpler. No matter what your status, everyone was given the same kind of treatment. In fact, the living areas for males and females were separated, and Shui Xian had to do a lot of convincing before he managed to get the same room for himself and his wife.

    Because he knew neither he wanted to sleep alone nor Raelle. And in this condition, he didn''t want her to sleep alone either. He wouldn''t be able to rest easy leaving her alone in this unfamiliar ce.

    The sleeping arrangements couldn''t match thefort that was at home or even at the hospital. There was just a bed with clean bedding and a table in the corner of the room. Nothing else was there. The wooden bed was certainly small for two people but they couldn''t be picky about it.

    Even though there wasn''t an air conditioner here, the slow breeze dissipated the heat and made it easier to rest. Raelle closed her eyes earlier. The tiredness of the whole day really caught with her and she couldn''t stay awake once her head touched the pillow. Shui Xian hugged her body gently and closed his eyes as well.

    Both of them didn''t even know when the rain came or when it stopped. Only when they woke up before dawn did they feel a chill in the air. Looking at the slightly wet ground, they figured that it had rainedst night.

    Hyson also joined them while yawning and rubbing his eyes, "Good morning!"

    "You can sleep for a bit longer," suggested Shui Xian.

    "I came here for a purpose," replied Hyson and waved his hand. "Forget about me. I''m fine."

    All three of them walked to the area where the preparations for the ritual had been done. The Grand Master of the temple performed the ritual for them. Both Hyson and Shui Xian tried to look solemn but Raelle could see that they both seemed to be hiding their tears. So old and yet so easy to shed tears. But she didn''t think there was anything wrong.

    If anything, she felt it was wrong that she wasn''t able to shed those tears once more to express her feelings. That''s when she heard the Grand Master quote: "Whatever is not yours: let go of it. Your letting go of it will be for your long-term happiness and benefit."

    She repeated those words again and again in her mind until she felt like she understood something profound.

    The ritual continued until sunrise and only then all of them stood up to leave. Shui Xian pulled Hyson and Raelle with him toward the Grand Master and bowed.

    "Is there anything else the benefactor wishes to say?" asked the Grand Master with his face radiating benevolence.

    "Grand Master, I want you to bless my wife and this little brother of mine," stated Shui Xian.

    Grand Master''s eyes traveled from Raelle''s face to Hyson and the gentleness in his eyes deepened, "One is radiant like the little sun and the other is carrying the tranquility of the moon. You both have such pure eyes and such beautiful hearts. Your blessings are already with you."

    Hyson looked at the Grand Master with a deep look and tried to see through this kind-looking man. There was nothing wrong with what the eminent monk just said. He was always told he was like a little sun and indeed, Raelle was more like carrying the peacefulness of the moon.

    The Grand Master was still smiling gently as he quoted: "Just as the dawn is the forerunner of the arising of the sun, so true friendship is the forerunner of the arising of the noble eightfold path. It means friends can define your entire life. The people who apany you on the treacherous path of life matter a lot."

    All of them bowed slightly as the Grand Master walked away.

    "That was profound,"mented Hyson. "No wonder I understood nothing."

    Shui Xian nced at Hyson and said, "You can stop pretending."

    "Oh," responded Hyson and silently followed them.

    "Shall we have breakfast here or we can find a ce on the way back?" asked Shui Xian waiting for their opinion.

    Raelle had no opinion but Hyson did, "Let''s go down. I am very hungry. If I have to eat just porridge with in buns in the morning, I won''t be able to carry on with my audition. What if I messed up? Wouldn''t I be humiliated?"

    "Then let''s start our journey back home," decided Shui Xian.

    Technically, they had nothing to pack up so they just started climbing down the stairs. On the way up, the journey was silent for Shui Xian and Raelle but on the way down, they had a chatterbox who had a lot to say and share with them. Who knew where he found so many topics he just had way too much to say.

    Hyson was always energetic and would never get tired of talking. Especially not when he was around Raelle and even if she didn''t respond, he''d still keep talking because he knew she was listening. Not only her even Shui Xian was listening.

    "Weren''t you hungry?" asked Raelle. "Where is this energying from to talk so much?"

    "This is my backup energy for an emergency," replied Hyson.

    "Then use this backup energy wisely," suggested Raelle while Shui Xian pressed his lips to suppress his smile.

    Hyson didn''t pay heed to her words at all. As if her words had any effect on him. He was always this unrestrained around her and hardly she could tame him up. After a while, he brought it up, "Ellie, do you realize that the Grand Master also said we are soulmates?"

    Shui Xian shook his head because he knew Hyson was gonna bring this up.

    "You should be d you met me," said Hyson proudly.

    "I''m very d I met you, Hyson," came a very serious reply from Raelle catching Hyson off guard to the point that he almost missed a step but Shui Xian held him up before he could roll down the stairs. "What? Are you that touched?"

    Hyson shuddered, "Don''t talk like that. I am not used to it."

    Shui Xianughed at Hyson''s response and rubbed his head, "Little Fai, she is being very honest."

    "I know," replied Hyson. "But I''m still not used to it."

    "Is our Little Fai feeling shy?" teased Shui Xian.

    "No!" rebutted Hyson. He refused to agree with that. He wasn''t shy. Who was he? He was Yue Fai! How could he be shy? And that too because of Raelle? That poker face had nothing over him. Yes, nothing at all!

    It was as if all of his thoughts were written on his face right now and both Shui Xian and Raelle could see it clearly but chose not to point it out. It wasn''t every day that Hyson was shy about something.

    When they climbed down the stairs, Shui Xian and Raelle got into their car and Hyson took his own. Raelle looked at the car he brought and then at him, "You took Yanyan''s car out?"

    "I was in a hurry and needed a good ride," he told her. He patted the car''s frame saying with appreciation, "This is one hell of a ride!"

    "Of course it is, why else would Yanyan treasure it so much?" was Raelle''s response. "I heard she got it modified. So, it''s expected that it''s above others'' of its league now."

    "Fai, you okay with going alone? Why don''t youe with us? You''ll be able to sleep while I can drive. You haven''t slept wellst night."

    Hearing Shui Xian''s suggestion, Hyson''s smile widened. Why wouldn''t he be happy to receive this concern from his Xian Ge? He was very happy.

    "We have different destinations, Xian Ge," said Hyson with a pout. "Also, I can''t let anyone else touch Yanyan''s treasured car. If she found out, it won''t end well."

    Shui Xian was still worried but he didn''t insist but just said, "Then you drive carefully."

    "I will," assured Hyson. "You go home now. Everyone must be waiting."

    Saying that he got into the car and waved at them before he drove away. Shui Xian''s eyes still followed his car with worry palpable in those eyes. He couldn''t help it. He could see that Hyson was sleepy and it really wasn''t wise for him to drive in this condition.

    "Stop thinking about him," said Raelle. "He isn''t pushing his luck. He treasures his life very much. And he might haven''t slept for long but he can function properly. Stop treating him like a baby just because he likes calling himself a baby."

    Shui Xian turned to Raelle and his brows raised up as he asked, "Baby, are you jealous?"

    "What? Why would I be? And whom? Hyson? What for?"

    "Because I paid him so much attention and slightly ignored you?" Shui Xian sounded yful but his eyes were seriously trying to probe her heart right now and see through her.

    Raelle paused and thought about it before saying, "Okay, I ept. Stop looking at him already."

    Shui Xian chuckled, "Okay, I''ll only look at you then."

    "Chessy!"

    "Just for you!"

 Chapter 933: Close-Knitted Family

    Chapter 933: Close-Knitted FamilyBy the time Shui Xian and Raelle came back home, it was already past noon. They only stopped on the way to eat a quick breakfast but it still took a while to get back home. Entering the manor''s door, the servants greeted the couple politely and someone informed Shui Koshing who was having azy morning on this weekend.

    "Oh, the whole house has lit up just as you stepped inside," Shui Koshingughed happily as he came to greet his son and daughter-inw.

    "B¨¤, I didn''t know you missed me so much," said Shui Xian sheepishly.

    Shui Koshing pushed him aside with an ugly expression, "Who is talking about you? Don''t put gold on your face." Then his face blossomed once again as he looked at his daughter-inw and went on, "My dear daughter-inw, your father-inw missed you very much. The house looked so lonely without you here. It''s good that you''re back." He took her hand in his own and patted the back of her hand lovingly.

    Raelle didn''t pull her hand back. She had already epted Shui Koshing''s touch a while ago. Her father-inw was actually very adorable. He always gave her that fatherly love that was missing from her life. She might not have needed it but once she had it, she found it quite precious.

    "You already got tired of living alone? Should I repeat myself? Who was the one who wanted us to move out to build our loving nest?"

    Shui Koshing scratched his chin as he said, "Daughter-inw, I already told you. I''m old. I can make mistakes at this age. It''s allowed. I get muddle-headed sometimes. But isn''t that why I found myself a genius and rational daughter-inw? Whenever I''m losing control, you can bring me back on track." He pulled her inside and made her sit while ordering the servants to serve her the whole world. Sighing, he caressed her head, "My poor Raelle, you have suffered. Look how much weight you''ve lost. It hurts my heart to see you like this."

    Raelle felt like these words sounded very dramatic but she could see that Shui Koshing meant every single word he just said.

    "I think it''s B¨¤ who has suffered more," she replied. "Look at how much white hair you got in just a few days. Your eyes show that youck rest. Your spirit isn''t looking good. B¨¤ must have worked hard these days."

    Although Shui Koshing did work a lot these days and could feel that his spirit wasn''t good. When Raelle said it, he could feel her care and concern, and surprisingly, it was enough to lighten up everything in his body.

    "How is that any of your fault?" asked Shui Koshing. He red at his son, "It''s all this unfilial son."

    "B¨¤..."

    Before Raelle could continue to stand up for her husband, Shui Koshing sighed, "I know, I know. I''m not supposed to say anything to your husband. You should stop standing up for him at every turn."

    "If he is wrong, I won''t stand on his side," said Raelle. "I even sent him to work to lighten up your workload. He did whatever he could."

    Shui Xian didn''t even join their conversation, he just sat beside Raelle silently and listened to everything. There was a time when his father used to wait for him and would always show concern when he didn''te home for days because of work. Now, the situation was different. All that attention had shifted to his own wife. So what if his father didn''t pay attention to him now? He was happier now.

    Not only did his father was attentive toward his wife, but also his wife was there to stand up for him. What else could he ask for? Why would he ask for attention when he had such a warm and peaceful family?

    "I heard you went to the temple?" asked Shui Koshing.

    "Yes, we are justing back from there," replied Raelle.

    Shui Koshing smiled gently and said, "Then you both must haven''t had a good rest. Go. Go to your room and rest. We''ll meet for lunch."

    "B¨¤ should also rest," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian nodded along with her, "You should really rest B¨¤. I am back home. I''ll take over the work."

    "What take over the work?" snorted Shui Koshing. "You obediently keep taking care of our Raelle. Take one step away from her and I''m gonna break your legs. Is it the time when you can leave her alone? Learn to be a good husband!"

    ''I still have to learn that?'' thought Shui Xian to himself and when he looked at Raelle, he nodded mentally. ''Okay, it seems he could really do an even better job.''

    "He is already a very good husband," said Raelle.

    Shui Koshingughed helplessly at his daughter-inw, "Raelle, I''m standing up for you. Can''t you back me up?"

    "If I do that, my hubby will feel left out," was her response that left others with no way to react.

    Shui Xian happily took her hand and said, "Come. Let''s go to our room."

    While they were talking, none of them noticed that Amiah had been watching them from a distance. This scene before her gave her a veryplicated feeling. The three people in front of her looked like a close-knitted family. They all seemed to be teasing each other but in fact, it showed how close they were to each other.

    At this moment, she realized that even she had never been this intimate with her own father even before everything changed in their family, there was always a distance between her and her father. She always thought it was because her father was too busy and had no time for her or that he wasn''t a gentle person. But looking at it now, it seemed he was still the same but everything still seemed unfamiliar to her.

    Was it really her who never understood her own father?

 Chapter 934: [Bonus chapter] Tradition Of Surprises

    Chapter 934: [Bonus chapter] Tradition Of Surprises

    While Raelle and Shui Xian turned to go upstairs, they finally ran into Amiah. Shui man was a bit surprised that she was still here. From the way she wore those pajamas, it was obvious that she had stayed the night Maybe he shouldn''t be so surprised, if his Si had specifically kept a room for her all this while in this manor, then obviously he''d let her stay the night as long as she was willing to.

    "You just woke up? asked Shui Xian. "I went to bed quitete," responded Amiah in a small voice while her eyes were stuck on Raelle.

    Raelle also looked at her and said, "It''s good to see you here, Miss Amiah." "Okay, okay, you guys can chat another time, there are plenty of chances," said Shui Koshing. "Amiah, you can tell what you want to eat to the servants. They''ll arrange it for you."

    Amiah felt ufortable when her father called her ''Amiah''. The name Shui Sying was given by her parents. And her father always called her Sying. Now, he was calling her Amiah. She should be used to this name since everyone knew her by that name now but she still didn''t like it when the name was called out by her father. 0

    "Then we''ll see youter," said Shui man as he pulled Raelle with him. ''Si forgave her," hemented when they ascended the stairs in a soft voice.

    "He is a father, of course, he''d forgive her," was Raelle''s response. "But dear husband, forgiving is easy. Forgetting is not." Shui man nodded in agreement and didn''t continue this topic. It was between Amiah and Ba, and he didn''t wish to stand on any side. As they arrived at their floor, everything seemed exactly the same as they left Raelle was the one who pushed open the door of the bedroom but once her eyes fell on the bed, she immediately closed the door. Shui Xian ran into her and was so shocked by her movements that he didn''t even react for a whole minute. "Baby, what are you doing? "You can''t enter like this," she told him. "Huh? Shui man frowned in confusion. What was going on here? "Why not? "Close your eyes," she ordered. "Let me think about it." After thinking, she went behind him and covered his eyes with her hands saying, "Yes, this is the way. We''ll enter this way." "How will I walk like this? he asked. "I can''t see anything." "You don''t have to see anything, you just have to follow my lead," she said. "Anyway, you said you love me. And when you''re in love, you have to have blind trust in your partner. Are you saying you don''t trust me? Would I let you trip? Have some faith."

    "Okay, okay. You don''t have to tell me all that," sighed Shui Xian. "I''ll just walk like this."

    "Okay then you open the door," she instructed. Shui Xian smiled to himself helplessly, "Darling, my eyes are covered." "And my hands are busy covering your eyes," she replied. "Then you can put down your hands," he said. "What if you peek? she asked. "Also, I think when giving surprises, everyone covers the eyes like this of their partner. Isn''t it kind of a tradition?" 0 "No, it isn''t," he told her. "I won''t peek You can put your hands down. I prefer holding your hand." Raelle put her hands down as she hummed, "Me too. Holding hands is better." She held his hand while using the other hand to open the door once again while keeping an eye on his face to make sure that his eyes were closed. 0 She took him slowly to the bed and told him, "You can open your eyes now." Shui Xian opened his eyes and looked around. His eyes fell on the wrapped box on the bed. He did recall how she told him she had gotten him a gift. He didn''t think he''d be getting it firsthand aftering back home. "Open it," she said. Shui Xian looked at her and then he pulled the ribbon before unwrapping the box. When the cardboard box was gone, Shui Xian stilled for a moment. In front of his eyes was a customized ck guitar case. On the ck case, in silver writing, it was written, ''Xian''. It was written in both English and Mandarin. It was just his name but it made him stop to look at it as he traced it with his finger and looked at Raelle, "It''s your writing?

    Raelle nodded her head in response. Of course, by now he knew what was inside but he still eagerly opened the guitar case and looked at the customized acoustic guitar she got for him. He felt his breath hitch when he looked at the beautiful ck guitar. He held it in his hands and looked at it carefully. There was a small drawing on the guitar. A chibi boy yed the guitar while a chibi girl stood in front of him. It wasn''t difficult to tell what this drawing represented. Because the chibi girl was wearing a crown with the ''R'' alphabet while the chibi boy wore a shirt with the ''X'' alphabet. Wasn''t it just him and his wife? Oh, he should say, his Queen Raelle!

    Shui Xian felt so giddy inside that he ended upughing out loud. "How is it?" asked Raelle after observing all his expressions. "Do you like it? You can try ying and see if it is to your liking. I''m not very well-versed with this stuff so Hyson suggested I talk to his group leader. Lin Zhen is very proficient with musical instruments. He helped me pick the best specifications and suggested the best customizing ce as well..." While she was still talking, Shui Xian enclosed her in his arms and hugged her tightly. To be honest, he left those days of carrying a guitar way behind him He felt like he walked out of that phase and came too far ahead now but suddenly, she put a guitar into his hands making him feel like that teenager who loved spending hours just with his guitar..

 Chapter 935: Magic

    Chapter 935: MagicAt this moment, whatever Shui Xian said would not be enough. It wasn''t just a guitar that she ced into his hands. It was his long-buried dream. It was the real him. The precious part of Shui Xian was lost somewhere along the passage of time.

    But now, she dug out that piece from somewhere and brought it back to him.

    He didn''t know what to say to her. He really didn''t know because his mind waspletely nk right now and he wasn''t sure what to say. The only thing he really wanted to do was hug her. In fact, he wanted to bury her in his own body and never let go.

    You know what else was special about this moment?

    It was the fact this woman who knew nothing about music took her time and put her effort into bringing this surprise to him. She had no appreciation for music. She didn''t understand anything about music. She didn''t know how music could drive emotions or how one could use music to express feelings.

    The fact that this guitar was a gift from her held a very special meaning to him. One that even he couldn''t exin in words at all.

    "Raelle..." he called out to her softly.

    "Hm?" she hummed.

    "Baby..." he called again.

    "Yes," she responded again.

    "My darling wife..."

    "What is it?" she inquired.

    He cupped her face in his hands while his thumbs caressed her cheeks and he said, "I just want to keep calling you."

    "Stop it," she said. "You''ll get tired."

    He grinned foolishly, "I never will get tired." He pressed his lips against her forehead and buried her face into his chest again. There were plenty of feelings swirling in his heart right now. All those feelings squeezed his heart and made him once again face the reality that he couldn''t be without Raelle in his life anymore.

    As he stroked the back of her head, someone''s voice rang into his mind, "Too much of anything bes poison of life. Whether it''s fear, anxiety,ziness, food, anger, or even love. Master Xian, you''re currently suffering from the poison of love. But do you want to know something interesting? Love is poison and the cure as well. The only antidote for the poison of love is the person who fed you that poison. You better keep holding on to that antidote of yours."

    Shui Xian sighed as he remembered those words once again.

    "Don''t you wanna try ying it?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian happily agreed and took the guitar as he sat down on the sofa. With his sleeves rolled up to his forearms, his hairzilyying on his forehead, his eyes moistened with sheen, his lips curled up in a beautiful smile. He appeared like he really went back to his youth as he held the guitar and tuned it before strumming a bit.

    His fingers found the strings very familiar even though he hadn''t yed guitar in years. Behind him were the ss windows, the sheer white curtains were drawn and allowed the sunlight to fall inside making a halo behind him. Raelle stood in front of him and watched his ying the guitar with a heartfelt smile on his lips.

    At this moment, she gave herself a thumbs-up. Indeed, her gift was right. She made the right choice. Although they wasted quite a few days in the hospital and original surprise was toned down, it didn''t diminish Shui Xian''s happiness. And as long as he was happy, it was all worth it.

    Seeing her standing before him with her eyes on him, Shui Xian looked down at the drawing on his guitar and chuckled. The scene seemed all too familiar. He traced that cute drawing and couldn''t help asking, "Who drew this?"

    "I did," she replied shocking Shui Xian. Seeing his disbelieving eyes, Raelle asked, "Why? I can''t do it? I know I don''t have a creative mind for such things and my drawing isn''t very good either but that doesn''t mean I can''t even draw this much. Lin Zhen said it''d be more personal if I drew it myself. So, I did. I didn''t know what to draw so I drew what I had in mind. You ying the guitar while I''ll watch you."

    "Watch me? Won''t you hear me ying?" he asked.

    "I can''t understand it anyway," she replied inly. "So, I''ll do what I can understand. I''ll watch you and appreciate how handsome you look."

    "Hahahaha!" Shui Xian burst outughing when he heard that. As always, that''s his wife, Raelle Xiang. He could only expect this answer from her. No one else would say it apart from her. "Then you better keep your eyes locked on me."

    "My eyes are locked on you for good," she replied.

    Seeing him hugging the guitar so preciously, Raelle said, "You can put it down now."

    "I don''t want to," he said.

    "Then what are you gonna do? Hug it to sleep?"

    "If I could, I''d want to carry it with me everywhere! But it''s too big. Can''t fit it in my pocket," hemented in distress. He reallyouldn''t bear to part with this gift. Was it just a gift? It was definitely straight attack to his heart! One that didn''t miss the target but struck it to the core!

    "Then how about I use my magic and turn it into a smaller size for you?" asked Raelle.

    "Huh? My wife has magic now?" he asked showing his expression of surprise clearly.

    "I do have some," she replied without any mental burden at the moment.

    "Okay, then turn it into a smaller size so I can take it everywhere with me," said Shui Xian. "It''d be like carrying a part of you with me all the time. I''m excited just thinking about it."

    "Then ce the guitar over here," she pointed to the coffee table before him. "And after that, close your eyes."

    "I have to close my eyes again?" he asked.

    "Of course, how else will my spell work?" she asked in return.

    Shui Xian bit his lip to stop himself fromughing and agreed obediently.

 Chapter 936: [Bonus chapter] Poetry

    Chapter 936: [Bonus chapter] PoetrySeeing his eyes closed, Raelle picked up the guitar and hurriedly hid it behind the sofa along with its case. She did it as silently as possible beforeing to stand before him and saying, "Sprits send my words, all across the world. Turn this guitar into a smaller size for my husband."

    Shui Xian almostughed out loud but held himself back. It was definitely not like her but he was finding this situation too cute to stop it. She was doing something out of the ordinary for him, how could he have the heart to stop it or say anything about it?

    "Okay, open your eyes," she instructed.

    When Shui Xian open his eyes, he was met with really a mini-sized version of the guitar he just put down. This time, it was a key chain that was the exact replica of the customized guitar he received from her. He looked into her eyes and then at the key chain.

    "How is it? Didn''t my magic work?"

    Shui Xian took the key chain from her and nodded, "It worked. I never knew my wife was so powerful. What kind of magical power is this?" Before she could speak, he added, "Oh, I know. It''s the power of love." With that, he kissed her lips and chuckled.

    Raelle pinched his waist making himugh harder.

    "Are you making fun of me?" she asked.

    "Definitely not," denied Shui Xian. "I''m just so happy. I didn''t know my wife could do something like this as well. Where did you learn it from?"

    "You think this didn''te from my own brain?" she asked.

    "It didn''t," he tapped her forehead. "This brain is meant to do great things. These silly tricks don''te from this great mind."

    Raelle lowered her eyes as she told him, "I saw a guy trying to amuse his sick girlfriend in the hospital this way. She definitely looked very happy. Why don''t you fall for it?"

    Shui Xian bit her nose lightly making her blink at him, "My silly wife, that girl didn''t fall for it. She was also pretending. In my case, you''ll easily see through my pretense. Why bother? Besides, I''m genuinely happy that even if it wasn''t an original, you put effort into this silly act which is so not like you."

    Raelle wasn''t disappointed that her act didn''t work. Who would fall for magical tricks? Forget it, it served its purpose well. Her husband was amused and his eyes brightened up even more.

    "Go and wash up," said Shui Xian. "I''ll take out the clothes for you."

    Raelle nodded and walked towards the bathroom. It had been a while since she had afortable bath. So, she had to take her time.

    Seeing her go, Shui Xian walked behind the sofa and picked up the guitar case. His eyes fell on the closed door of the bathroom before he shook his head with a helpless smile on his face. He hugged the guitar and took it into the study to keep it safe before he entered the closet and took outfortable loungewear for her and for himself as well.

    After they were done with ablutions, theyy down together. Shui Xian wanted her to sleep since they woke up way earlier than her usual time but she wasn''t sleepy so they justy down there doing nothing.

    Raelle''s head was ced on his chest while one of his hands was on her back. Half of her body was actually lying on his while her toes kept making trouble on the front of his feet making his heart itch to do something. His other hand yed with her fingerszily before he brought up her hand to kiss the tips of her fingers lightly.

    They didn''t talk about anything but just keptying there in peace. And that''s how they spent the next two hours on this summer day before they were called down for lunch.

    When they came downstairs, Shui Koshing and Amiah were already waiting for them. Although Shui Xian thought Amiah would have left by now, he didn''t question how or why she was still here. Meanwhile, Amiah''s eyes first fell on the sped hands of her brother and sister-inw. She remembered they went upstairs the same way and they came down the same way as well.

    "Daughter-inw, eat more," said Shui Koshing. "Body needs food to recover. I hired another nutritionist to take care of your diet. So, you have to eat well and fatten up a little."

    "Fatten up?" repeated Raelle and Shui Xian simultaneously. Each had their own thoughts though. Raelle didn''t like the idea of being fat. Moving will get difficult while Shui Xian seemed very interested in seeing a cuddly Raelle.

    "I think you can put on some weight," added Shui Xian. "You''ll look gorgeous."

    "You mean I don''t look good right now?"

    Shui Xian coughed, "What are you saying? When did I say that? You''re beautiful. You''re the red plum blossoms blooming in the middle of a snowy day. Exceptionally enchanting."

    Shui Koshing chuckled, "Son, I wish your mother was here. She used toin about how poorly you were doing in Chinese ss because of poetry. Now, you''ve even learned to be poetic when ites toplimenting your wife. Not bad. Not bad at all. You still have some hope."

    Shui Xian didn''t think his father would talk about that right now.

    "Hubby, you''re bad at Chinese?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian rubbed his temples, "Not that bad, baby! I was just bad at poetry. Everything else was good. I wasn''t that bad of a student."

    "Oh, I think you were still better than me at poetry," said Raelle. "Opa always said I can''t understand what the poet was trying to express. And honestly, I never did. If you want topliment a beauty, just do it. What''s with ''A cup of wine sweet as honey a girl with braids ck as a crow. Why ask if spring is lovelier than autumn? I have never been able to decide if peach blossoms were prettier than chrysanthemums.''"

    Shui Xian stared wide-eyed at his wife who just recited such an old poem without blinking.

 Chapter 937: Sincere Advice

    Chapter 937: Sincere AdviceSeeing her husband''s reaction, Raelle continued, "Do you understand the poem? The first verse is talking about wine and then it jumps to a girl with braids which is associated with a crow. From there we suddenly jump to talk about seasons like spring and autumn and as if that''s not enough, we move to talk about peach blossoms and chrysanthemums. Of course, I couldn''t interpret it the way Opa wanted me to. He said the poem was talking about the beauty of a woman. I really couldn''t see it. I still can''t see it."

    Shui Koshing chuckled softly, "I''m not even surprised."

    Shui Xian also shook his head at her words and said, "Then how about you interpret this one, ''A sight on beauty causes insomnia A day in separation makes mania. To hold your heart in arms is what I wish. Yet the attempts in vain let me perish.''"

    Before Raelle, Shui Koshing spoke up, "Son, where is the middle part? You only recited the start and end."

    Raelle also nodded her head, "Yes, you skipped the middle verses."

    Shui Xian scratched his head, "I forgot okay. Baby, you know the poem?"

    "It''s Feng Qiu Huang(Looking for You) written by Sima Xiangru in the Han Dynasty. I also know that the poem was used as a courtship to Zhou Wenjun."

    "Wow! My wife is really good at it,"plimented Shui Xian happily.

    Raelle replied, "I might not be able to tell the meaning behind these poetries but my memory is still very good. Also, Opa made me read a lot of poetry collections from history."

    That topic was very interesting to Shui Koshing who asked curiously, "Daughter-inw, were all those collections the original copies? My father used to say the real treasure of the Xiang family was their collection of history."

    Raelle nodded her head, "Yes, all those books were old and written in traditional Mandarin. Although well-perserved, one could still see how old the books are." She took a pause and added, "I also heard that our family has a treasured collection of relics but I didn''t see it. It''s kept at our ancestrol home and I have never been there."

    While they were chattering the lunch was served and knowing Raelle''s habit, they all ate in silence. It wasn''t that they were trying to exclude Amiah who also sat there at the table with them but her presence was currently too small. She had been trying to stay silent and observe everything around her. And by doing that, she realized that Sora was right; everything had changed over the years.

    After lunch, they sat together to chat because they hadn''t seen each other for days. Raelle looked at Amiah and said, "You can sit with us if you want to. And there is no need to be so cautious or silent, it''s your home as well."

    Amiah was suddenly struck by those words and was left staring at Raelle''s back.

    Once again, Shui Koshing couldn''t help saying, "It''s good that you''re both home. This ce was too silent without you two."

    "B¨¤, we are usually not home," reminded Raelle. "You''re always home alone. Why are you feeling it so much this time?"

    "Usually I get to have my meals with you two," answered Shui Koshing.

    "B¨¤, Raelle was right. You do have a lot of white hair now," said Shui Xian. "How did that happen? Within such a short time, you nned to fast forward your aging?"

    Shui Koshing red at his son, "What kind of words are those? I''m getting old. Don''t you know that already?"

    "Hubby, why don''t you help B¨¤ in covering up his white hair?" suggested Raelle. "Didn''t you say that you want to learn hair styling skills from Yanyan? How about practicing on B¨¤?"

    "Practicing?" repeated Shui Koshing in a small voice while Shui Xian raised his brows at his wife.

    "Why? Don''t want to?" asked Raelle.

    "No, I think that''s a wonderful idea," smiled Shui Xian.

    Raelle had to excuse herself when a maidservant passed her ringing phone to her. She went to a side to take the call leaving Shui Koshing looking at his son in displeasure.

    "You! Can''t you say no?" asked Shui Koshing.

    "B¨¤, you can say no too," replied Shui Xian. "Don''t look at me. I can''t refuse my wife. As long as she is happy, I''ll do anything."

    "Then do you think I can say no to her?" retorted Shui Koshing. "That''d be a crime!" He calmed himself down before adding, "Whatever, you better make sure to give me a good haircut. Don''t mess around."

    "Don''t worry, I''ve been watching a lot of tutorials," assured Shui Xian to his father but that was definitely not assuring at all.

    "Watching tutorials? Do you think watching is the same as doing it?" He touched his hair and sighed, "Just make me look presentable!"

    "Sure!" Shui Xian hid his smile. He looked at his sister and said, "Why are you sitting so silently? Usually, you have a lot to say. It''s not like you to sit so quietly."

    "Xian," Shui Koshing called out. "Behave yourself."

    Shui Xian looked at his father, "I''m just asking."

    "No, you''re looking for trouble."

    Shui Xian rubbed his nose and didn''t say anything.

    "Ge, you don''t have to probe. I''m not looking for a fight," replied Amiah. "I just noticed I don''t fit in this family."

    "If you''re a family, you''ll find your ce in it. The question is, whether you''re willing to sincerely put in the effort or not," said Shui Xian. He looked over at his wife who was on the phone and added, "Everyone has to find their own ce. When thingse easily, they are not treasured. When you''re part of this family, you took everything for granted. Now, you''ll have to face the reality."

    "Xian!"

    "B¨¤, I''m not trying to snub her or something. I''m just giving a piece of sincere advice as an elder brother. Sh won''t mind if she really treats me as an elder brother."

 Chapter 938: [Bonus chapter] Lifeline

    Chapter 938: [Bonus chapter] LifelineSince Raelle had returned from the hospital, it was impossible that she won''t go to the Xiang Manor. She had to see her Opa whom she had only met once since her hospitalization and that didn''t seem right to her. Even if no one told her, she knew something was wrong but chose not to voice her doubts.

    In the evening, not just Raelle and Shui Xian but even Shui Koshing came with them and he pulled Amiah along since leaving her at home alone would be wrong.

    As soon as Raelle entered the door, a whole bucket of confetti fell on her head. Raelle stilled before calling out, "Hyson!"

    Hyson''s loudughter rang through the halls and made the whole house seem alive all at once. He looked at Raelle standing there with confetti sticking in her head and felt very pleased with himself. Indeed, only he had the guts to do something like this with Raelle because the rest of the people were hiding in the room away from this.

    "Don''t be broody now," he threw his arm around her shoulder as he continued in a small voice that only they could hear, "You should be happy. I didn''t buy the confetti poppers. Only because you don''t like loud noises. So, I could only settle for this. I can''t even buy balloons since I''d be afraid what if they burst and made you ufortable? Have you ever seen a more thoughtful best friend than me?"

    "And only you''d be this shameless topliment yourself without any scruples," said Raelle.

    "What kind of qualms are you expecting from me with you around? I''m the most unrestrained when I''m with you."

    "Are you learning to be cheeky from my husband?"

    Hyson looked at Shui Xian who was walking behind them and shook his head, "Nah. My cheekiness is of another level."

    "I concur!" came Shui Xian''s voice. "Where is everyone?"

    "Here!"

    Shui Xian looked up and was shocked to find that there were a lot more people than expected in the house right now. It really seemed like a homing party or something. Minus the exaggerated clothing. Because everyone was dressed as usual so it was more like a homing dinner.

    Seeing so many people Raelle stopped and tried to turn around to run but, of course, Hyson knew that. Why else would he hug her shoulder all the way? He was all too familiar with her and how she''d react in certain situations.

    "Don''t even think about running," he warned her. "Everyone is here to wee you back home. Be a good girl."

    "Oh, my darling Elle!" Mu Chenyan was the first to step up from the crowd and hugged her darling baby in her arms. "I''m so happy to see you."

    "Did Ie back from a long journey or something? What''s with the exaggerated reaction? Drop it."

    "Oh," Mu Chenyan stopped her caring words froming out.

    Raelle''s eyes fell on everyone in the living room. There were her siblings Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai. Zhai Yanjun was also standing a certain distance away from Xiang Wai. Hyson even called Lin Zhen, Feng Yiwen, Huang Shuyi, and Pei Zi Hong of his band as he had promised them. She had heard that Xiang Hulin had left for work but right now, even he stood there looking at her. So, this was considered already a lot of people to Raelle who wasn''t fond of crowds.

    But she didn''t see Yue Yue and her Opa.

    "Where is Opa?" asked Raelle after she greeted everyone with a word or two. Everyone seemed to be concerned about her health and said a few words to her.

    Mu Chenyan pointed towards the door where Yue Yue was pushing in Grandfather Xiang. Seeing him, Raelle walked to him and crouched down before his wheelchair, "Opa, I''m home."

    Grandfather Xiang''s eyes moistened up a little when he heard that. His wrinkly hand touched the top of her head like he always did and said, "It''s good that my Yenay is home. Opa missed you a lot."

    Raelle allowed him to rub her head as she once had told Shui Xian, she really liked the feeling of her Opa caressing her head. It genuinely felt like he provided warmth to her with this gesture. This was the warmth that saved Raelle Xiang from bing really the epitome of an emotional machine. Without this care, love, and warmth, she would have never put so much effort into understanding emotions.

    "Tsk. Opa just K.O.ed everyone,"mented Hyson. "That is so unfair. We are also here. How can you still run to him first?"

    "What are you? Who are you?" was Raelle''s response.

    Hyson touched his heart, "Ah! That hurts. Xian Ge, your wife just attacked me."

    Shui Xian patted his shoulder, "It''s okay. Xian Ge will keep youpany."

    Hyson looked over at Xiang Weimin, "Do you understand why I said that amnesia is eptable as long as I don''t forget her? See? She is ready to drop me anywhere!"

    Xiang Weimin chuckled at his antics and shook his head, "You''re exaggerating."

    "No, I''m not!"

    "If I wanted to drop you, you wouldn''t be standing here," came Raelle''s response.

    "How is that any of your business?" rebutted Hyson. "It''s my hard work, persistence, and shamelessness that led me here. I achieved everything on my own merits. Don''t try to take credits."

    "Who can take credit from my little prince?" chuckled Grandfather Xiang happily and dotingly. The way he indulged Raelle and Hyson was really different than the rest.

    "Of course, no one can as long as my Opa is here," replied Hyson.

    Grandfather Xiang was genuinely feeling very happy today after seeing Raelle. She looked much better than she did when hest saw her. He suddenly found his reason to keep living all over again. He had been dragging this life for so long. Wasn''t it all for Raelle? Then he picked up Hyson along the way who kept entertaining him and making him feel younger. These two were his lifeline.

 Chapter 939: Look Like You Mean It

    Chapter 939: Look Like You Mean ItEveryone there could see that Grandfather Xiang looked instantly invigorated just because he got to see his granddaughter. Even Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin were clear that Raelle''s presence meant something else to Grandfather Xiang. It wasn''t like their grandfather didn''t love the two of them. But Raelle had a different position and it wasn''t just because she grew up in front of his eyes.

    It had more to do with how Raelle was. Even they felt like putting her at the forefront, how could others be different? Besides, she was the youngest in the family and was supposed to be the apple of everyone''s eye.

    "You haven''t been well," said Raelle and it wasn''t a question. "And no one told me anything about your health." While she said that, her eyes were on Hyson who dropped by to see her more often than others.

    Hyson scratched the tip of his nose saying, "Not my fault. How can anyone speak if he says otherwise?"

    Grandfather Xiang knew he couldn''t hide from his perceptive granddaughter. She might not understand emotions, but she was able to understand situations very well. It wasn''t surprising at all at this point.

    Stroking her face lovingly, he said, "I asked them not to tell you. I wanted you to focus on your recovery. Besides, it was just a little bit of fever. It wasn''t anything big so I didn''t want to rm you for no reason."

    "If I''m the reason for your illness, I should at least know about it, no?"

    Grandfather Xiang sighed, "How is it your responsibility? It has nothing to do with you. Don''t put gold on your face. You think Opa is controlled by you?"

    Raelle nodded nkly and told him, "I''ve been told plenty of times that you''re controlling me because I was obedient but I never told anyone. In truth, it was always me controlling you instead."

    Grandfather Xiang chuckled at her words and didn''t refute her words. How could he? It was true that she was the one always controlling everything and everyone around her. It was very easy for her to do so without even trying. Even if it wasn''t her purpose, everyone around her would subconsciously start following her rhythm.

    "Now that I''m home, you can rest assured," added Raelle. "I''m fine. Stop worrying about me and focus on your own health. I''m not ready to live without you."

    Grandfather Xiang felt his nose was sour and he blinked his eyes to not shed tears in front of so many people. It was really bizarre how she was capable of evoking emotions in others when she couldn''t even let out her own emotions.

    "Okay, you keep a close eye on me and I''ll recover well."

    "I''m watching you," she even added hand gestures to emphasize her point making everyone who heard their conversation chuckle softly.

    Hyson dragged her over and asked, "What should we do? Gifts or dinner?"

    "No gifts," replied Raelle. "And there is still time in dinner."

    Hyson''s excitement was almost downed by her response. It was a good thing that he had no good expectations from her. "Please remind me again and again that I don''t give a bloody ''F'' about your so-called opinion!"

    Raelle looked at him and said, "If you don''t care about my opinion, why do you bother asking every time?"

    "Maybe because I''m hoping for miracles!"

    "Miracles don''t happen," stated Raelle. "You and I both know that."

    Hyson went silent for a moment before he picked up a piece of confetti from her hair and said, "Someone just told mest night that miracles do happen. It just depends on your desperation for that miracle to happen." He smiled as he went on, "Anyway, everyone already brought gifts to celebrate your recovery. We can''t do anything about it at this point. So, just ept it."

    "Even if I take the gifts, it had nothing to do with you, what are you excited about?"

    "I love opening gifts," he reminded. "Don''t forget that."

    "It seems we arete..."

    Everyone turned to look at the couple who entered and Raelle was the first one to speak, "And here I thought, you''d be the first one here."

    Cloe pulled up the cor of her shirt to hide some ambiguous marks while she looked at Raelle with a smile saying, "Chief, I''m so happy to see that you discharged from the hospital."

    "I''m still not allowed to go to the office," was Raelle''s answer which made the smile on Cloe''s face disappear.

    "What are you saying? Do you think of such a person? I''m genuinely happy that you''re recovering well. Not because I want you toe back to work to ease up my workload."

    "If you can''t sound like it, at least look like you mean it," said Raelle.

    Cloe touched her eyebrow and shrugged, "Whatever I do, you''ll still see through me. Why should I bother acting?" She took a moment to add, "Oh, and can you please look like you''re also happy to see me here?"

    "I''m never happy to see you," replied Raelle.

    Hysonughed, "Ellie, she''s asking you to give her face in front of her partner."

    Cui Xukun was silent all this while but once everyone''s eyes fell on him, he didn''t know how to react. Mu Chenyan came to pat his shoulder saying, "Of course, we are happy to see you, Cloe. I''m very happy that you brought him home."

    Cui Xukun felt a sharp pain on his shoulder and he almost winced in pain but had to hold back for his image. Cloe looked at his face and said to Mu Chenyan in a small voice, "Go easy on him. I can''t afford him running away."

    Mu Chenyanughed at her words and said, "Go away. I''m very easygoing. You don''t need to tell me anything."

    "MC? Easygoing isn''t the right word to describe you," was Cloe''s sincere opinion. But she couldn''t do anything so she only gave her boyfriend a sweet smile and mouthed him to keep fighting.

 Chapter 940: [Bonus chapter] This Wont End Well

    Chapter 940: [Bonus chapter] This Won''t End WellAs soon as Mu Chenyan''s handnded on Cui Xukun''s shoulder, two people felt pain in their shoulders. One was Shui Xian and the other was Zhai Yanjun. It was obvious that they both had gone through it for different reasons. And both were very familiar with Mu Chenyan''s heavy hand.

    While Shui Xian had a look of schadenfreude, Zhai Yanjun was dreading. Last time, he suffered just because he didn''t show up on the blind date. Next time, if Mu Chenyan learned he was dating Xiang Wai, he''d the next prey. He gulped just thinking about it.

    Xiang Wai held his hand and he looked up at her. She winked at him with a smile and Zhai Yanjun felt helpless. He leaned closer to her ear and whispered, "One day, she is gonna beat me up for your sake."

    Xiang Wai didn''t deny that because even she knew it. Even Shui Xian got bullied by Mu Chenyan at times even though Raelle was so protective of him. Much less Zhai Yanjun. Xiang Wai didn''t think she had the ability to stand against her own aunt.

    "What? Can''t bear that much for me?" she asked.

    He squeezed her hand with a tender look in his eyes, "I''ll bear anything if you''re there."

    Xiang Wai looked satisfied with that answer and looked up only to find Hyson and Shui Xian looking at them meaningfully. Xiang Wai instantly let go of Zhai Yanjun''s hand and stepped away from him. She really forgot the location and almost lost control. They were still in the early stage of dating. It wasn''t time for the introduction to the family yet.

    Both Hyson and Shui Xian shook their heads at their reaction.

    Raelle left all these people be and stepped up to meet Hyson''s group mates. Although she wasn''t that close to them, they all were close to Hyson. That much of a connection between them was enough for her.

    "Thank you for going to so much trouble to get the peace talisman for me," said Raelle to Huang Shuyi.

    "It was no trouble," replied Huang Shuyi. "It''s fine as long as you''re okay. Otherwise, our little brother would be crying in a corner. We can''t bear to see that."

    Raelle didn''t say anything. She knew Huang Shuyi did it for Hyson. And it was indeed because these four really didn''t want to see Hyson sad at all. He was the mascot of their group, how could they see his upset?

    As for the talisman, after going to the temple, she learned that it wasn''t easy to get it. It was really not as simple as Huang Shuyi made it seem but she didn''t voice out these details since he wasn''t willing to do so either.

    Then she looked at Lin Zhen, "Thank you! My husband really liked the gift. So, thank you for your help."

    Lin Zhen waved his hand, "I didn''t do much. You don''t have to be so serious about it. I''m more than happy to help. It''s not everyone who can get the honor to help Raelle Xiang."

    "I agree," was Raelle''s response making him smile at how she didn''t feel any embarrassment at all.

    Raelle spoke a few words with Feng Yiwen and Pei Zi Hong as well. Before she could continue, Cloe jumped in and started chatting with the members of her favorite boy group. She was like an excited fan jumping around so Raelle stepped aside from this fanatic.

    Seeing her father looking at her, she sat down in front of him, "When did youe back?"

    "Just a while ago," answered Xiang Hulin. He was actually feeling very excited inside since she actually came to talk to him on her own.

    Raelle looked at his travel-worn look and asked, "Are you done with your work?"

    Xiang Hulin wanted to say yes but that''d be a lie and it was easier for her to catch that lie too. So, he just honestly replied, "No. I just have two days. I have to go back. It''s just I learned you got discharged yesterday so I wanted toe and see to make sure you''re recovering well."

    "You should go and freshen up," said Raelle. "I''m not leaving."

    Xiang Hulin thought about it and nodded his head. He really had to go and take a shower and change his clothes. He was still wearing his military uniform and was giving others unnecessary pressure that naturally came to him because of his position in the army.

    Once he left, Raelle looked around the living room and watched what everyone was doing. Shui Xian was actually enjoying the way Mu Chenyan was bullying Cui Xukun. Oh, well she was just greeting this new ''son-inw'' who was coveting a girl of their family. But of course, Shui Xian would put it in the category of ''bullying'' because he was also a victim! But he didn''t feel any sympathy for this ex-best friend of his at all as a fellow victim.

    Meanwhile, Cloe has gathered around with the members of Fantasy making ns for who knew what and even Hyson went to join them and seemed to be bickering with Cloe about something.

    Shui Koshing was patientlymunicating with Yue Yue about something with a serious look on his face. Since Yue Yue was writing tomunicate, Raelle couldn''t tell what they were talking about. Xiang Wai had found her chance to slip away with Zhai Yanjun while Xiang Weimin was apanying his grandfather.

    Raelle didn''t think she was sitting alone or no one was paying attention to her. Rather, she was d that everyone was doing what they wanted instead of making her the center of attention which would really be ufortable for her.

    In fact, she thought the lonely one was Amiah who sat beside her father but her eyes were glued to someone else. Raelle followed her eyes and realized that all her attention had been on Hyson all this time. Raelle looked closely and perceived the inexplicable emotion in Amiah''s eyes when she looked at Hyson with a gentle smile ying on her lips.

    Raelle looked at Amiah and then at Hyson before muttering softly, "This won''t end well."

 Chapter 941: Burn

    Chapter 941: BurnOblivious to his best friend''s thoughts Hyson was ying around with his group and Cloe who was over-enthusiastic right now.

    "Cloe, you seem to forget me when you look at the other members. I thought I was your favorite," Hyson sounded so aggrieved when heined to her.

    Cloe gave him a look, "I see you all the time. Don''t you know that things lose value when theye to your easily?"

    Hyson gaped at her, "You! I lost my value? Aren''t you afraid that your boyfriend will be jealous? He was ready to blow his top when he met me back then."

    Cloe rolled her eyes at that remark, "Forget about it. I made it very clear to him that celeb crushes are just celeb crushes. I''m not delusional enough to believe in the fantasy of dating my idol crush. I live in reality. Painful reality. And I''m very happy with my boyfriend."

    "Why don''t you say it''s Ellie who had been pulling you down to reality all this time?"

    Cloe cleared her throat, "You already know, why ask? Chief would never let anyone daydream. Anyone close to her will learn to be practical rather than a dreamer."

    "I think that''s a good habit," said Pei Zi Hong.

    "For someone who is living his dream, you shouldn''t be talking about this," said Feng Yiwen.

    Pei Zi Hong shut up instantly. Indeed, his dream was to be a star and he was living this dream. So, agreeing with the fact of being practical rather than a dreamer, really didn''t suit him.

    "Hey, but at least he did something practical to achieve this dream rather than cooking dreams in his mind," said Cloe. "So, Zi Hong, you should be proud of yourself."

    "I like this fan more and more," said Pei Zi Hong. "She gives positive energy."

    "That''s Hyson''s effect," told Cloe.

    "No wonder it seemed familiar," said Pei Zi Hong.

    With a gossipy look, Cloe asked, "By the way, it''s been a while since your dating scandal and fans still are wondering who is your girlfriend. How about you tell me? I''m very curious."

    Pei Zi Hong didn''t respond to that.

    Cloe sighed, "Oh,e on! Have some faith! It''s not like I''m that bored to reveal this on the inte. Pity the poor me a little who has to overwork so much these days because her boss is on vacation. The least you can do is give me some gossip to rx."

    "Just to learn that gossip, you''re selling misery?" asked Hyson. "I''m impressed, Cloe! You''re really learning well."

    "Oh, it can''t be helped," chuckled Cloe. She still stared at Pei Zi Hong looking for an answer.

    "I''ll give you a hint," said Pei Zi Hong. "She is from the entertainment industry. An actress to be specific."

    "That''s it?" asked Cloe. "That''s too broad scope. How am I supposed to pick one from thousands of actresses out there? Narrow it down a little."

    "Okay, she is an A-list actress."

    "The scope is still too broad!"

    Hyson pulled her away, "Stop arguing with Zi Hong Ge. It''s his girlfriend who isn''t ready to reveal her identity. Once their families are settled down with the news of their dating, you''ll learn eventually. So, stop asking."

    Cloe narrowed her eyes at him, "You know her?"

    "Of course!"

    "You even met her?"

    "Even Ellie met her," replied Hyson.

    Cloe looked at her Chief and said, "I''ll go ask my Chief then!"

    Seeing her leaving, Hyson chuckled, "As if Ellie will say anything. Zi Hong Ge, don''t worry. Ellie won''t say anything."

    Pei Zi Hong looked carefree as he said, "I know. Besides, it doesn''t matter whether she tells anything or not. I was just teasing Cloe. In fact, everything is okay now."

    "Your family knows?" asked Lin Zhen.

    "No, but hers do and they are okay with it," replied Pei Zi Hong. "I left my family long ago. Their opinion doesn''t matter."

    On the other hand, Cloe ran over to Raelle''s side, "Chief, why are you sitting alone? How about I keep youpany?"

    "Whatever you want, I''m not willing to give," was Raelle''s response.

    "Chief," Cloe''s smile dropped. "What are you saying? I just want to sit down with you. We haven''t done this in a while after all."

    "You only sit down to talk to me when you have something on your mind," said Raelle. "It''s never just to chat with me."

    Cloe made a face at her but didn''t refute.

    "Now that you''re here, I do have something to ask," started Raelle. "How was your meeting with Cui Xuqing?"

    Cloe looked at her, "How do you know I met her?"

    "You wouldn''t bring your boyfriend here if you hadn''t been to his home yet," replied Raelle. "But it''s good that you brought him here. He needs to see your family. We have to let him know you''re not easy to bully."

    Cloe chuckled feeling emotional. Raelle and Mu Chenyan both called her family so naturally that Cloe couldn''t even bring herself to doubt it. "Yeah. I need to show him who my backing is so that he remembers not to mess with me."

    "So, how was it?"

    Cloe thought about it for a moment before asking, "What do you think?"

    "Are we ying a game here?" asked Raelle. "Anyway, I think Cui Xuqing must have liked you a lot."

    "Why are you so certain?"

    "Because I don''t allow people to question my people," replied Raelle.

    "Tsk. Is that apliment to me or yourself? How can you take every chance topliment yourself?"

    "Maybe because I deserve it," said Raelle. "On a serious note, it''s because Cui Xuqing is an independent woman and she is very clear about what she wants. She practically raised her brother so, of course, she''d have a lot of opinions about her future sister-inw. It''s a good thing that you''re kind of like him. At least, you''re professionally a strong woman and she would be happy to see that."

    "Chief, you seem to know her very well."

    "It''s not that I know her well," said Raelle. "It''s Soren whom I know well and he loves to talk about his wife as well. So, from my understanding, Cui Xuqing isn''t a difficult person to get along with. As long as you''re sincere to her brother, she''d not interfere."

    "Wow! Chief, you''re amazing! She said the same thing!" Cloe was getting goosebumps when she heard that. When she met Cui Xukun''s sister, she thought a lot but the scenario was different. Cui Xuqing indeed was a very easygoing person and liked her for being good at work. Most of all, she did tell Cloe that what mattered to her most was her brother''s feelings. Nothing else mattered. "She is actually a very nice person. No wonder she raised such adorable kids. And no wonder, Soren went crazy for her back then and is still the same."

    "It''s good if it went well," said Raelle and took a moment before she asked, "Cloe, look at Amiah and tell me what you see."

    Cloe looked over at Amiah and frowned seeing her staring so intently at Hyson who wasughing brightly as always. It reminded her of the time when they ate together at this hospital. She did notice Amiah''s unusual attention on Hyson but now, it was tant.

    "Chief, I was gonna tell you about this but it skipped my mind," started Cloe. "When she came to the hospital to see you, I already noticed that she seemed to have some interest in Fai. But I also thought I was thinking too much. Now, it seems like I wasn''t thinking too much. She likes Fai."

    Cloe looked at Raelle who looked as usual and Cloe knew that her words were unnecessary. Raelle already noticed all that she mentioned just now.

    "No, I''m asking you, what do you think about her?"

    Cloe coughed and looked everywhere but at Raelle, trying to escape this situation. No matter what, Amiah was Raelle''s sister-inw, and seeing how she was sitting with Shui Koshing, it was certain that her father brought her here. Was it okay for her to say anything negative about Amiah? Because let''s be honest, Cloe''s opinion wasn''t that high regarding Amiah. And she wasn''t like Raelle who could put emotions aside to look at and judge a person.

    Cloe was a normal person who would let her emotions get to her.

    And that''s why she thought Amiah was too brash. No matter what the reason, her attitude didn''t sit well with Cloe.

    "If you''re not willing to answer that then let me change the question," Raelle spoke up again. She already realized Cloe didn''t want to speak out her real thoughts right now. "What do you think about Amiah as a partner for Hyson?"

    Cloe almost choked on the air and looked horrified!

    "Chief, it''s not even funny!" said Cloe. "They have nothing inmon. Nothing at all. Fai might be a patient enough person to deal with her but..."

    "But he isn''t right for her," added Raelle. "I know my best friend best. He might be able to shine bright like the sun and provide others with warmth and light but the same sun is capable of burning others. Amiah won''t be able to take the burnt." She took a pause and added, "You help me contact Hyson''s manager and ask her how long will it take to finish this project and when is he joining the next production."

 Chapter 942: Keeping Distance

    Chapter 942: Keeping DistanceCloe was momentarily lost, not knowing how to react. She was a highlypetent assistant, otherwise, she wouldn''t be favored by Raelle for so long. But now, all of a sudden, she was acting dumb. It really took her a while to process Raelle''s words.

    You see, Raelle was someone who minded her business. She usually didn''t care about others. Even if it was Hyson, she didn''t actively try to probe into his work. But now, she was asking her to inquire about his work schedule. What prompted this change? Wasn''t it obvious?

    Cloe peered at Amiah with an inexplicable gaze as she asked, "Chief, what are you trying to do?"

    "Isn''t it obvious?" asked Raelle in return. "I''m trying to find a way out for my best friend."

    Cloe narrowed her eyes suspiciously, "Who are you protecting by doing this? Clearly, Fai doesn''t need that protection even if he acts like that." She touched her lips as she went on, "But then again, you can''t possibly be trying to protect Miss Amiah either, right? That''s so not like you. You don''t even like her."

    "Whether I like her or not," started Raelle cidly. "She is still my husband''s sister and B¨¤''s only daughter. It''s better to pull Hyson out of the equation before it gets toote." Raelle closed her eyes with her face supported by her hand as she went on, "Let''s be real. Amiah had already been hurt before, it won''t be good if the same happened again. The first time, Hyson will be polite but Amiah seems like a persistent person and that''ll only end up in a disaster." After all, Hyson wasn''t all that adorable as he portrayed himself to be. His words could be sharper than Raelle''s.

    "Fine," said Cloe. "I''ll contact his manager and ask about it. But I don''t think putting distance between them will help. Yes, if Fai gets a girlfriend then it''d a different story."

    Raelle gave her a look, "Hyson and a girlfriend? Let''s not talk about it."

    "Chief, the world is a mysterious ce, fate has its way to work," said Cloe. "For the time I knew you, I also couldn''t imagine seeing you in a rtionship. One that was filled with love. But what happened? Aren''t you currently happily married and a have sweet rtionship with your husband? So, you should believe that Fai can also find someone equally dazzling to match his energy."

    "I didn''t say that he can''t," said Raelle. "But it''ll be a long and difficult road. Because beauty doesn''t attract him. The person who could catch his attention needs to be more dazzling than him."

    While they were discussing Hyson, Hyson was busy teasing his brothers.

    "Yi Ge, I watched your gaming broadcast," said Hyson. "You''re so cool! You''ve all my heart."

    Feng Yiwen licked his canines and ran a hand through his silver hair as he said, "I''m so ttered. Our Fai has the heart of all the girls while his heart is with me. What should I do?"

    "Fai, you''re leaving tomorrow?" asked Lin Zhen.

    "Yes," answered Hyson as his face fell again but suddenly lit up again. "I had an audition today and if I get selected, Sister Xin said that we''ll have to discuss the filming schedule again and make some adjustments so I can join the next production crew as soon as possible."

    "You look very pleased with this information,"mented Lin Zhen. "Why? Don''t like working on this production?"

    "If you say it like that Zi Hong Ge will get upset," snickered Hyson making Pei Zi Hong roll his eyes at him. "But it''s nothing like that. I just didn''t have a good start with this crew. Maybe that''s why I get so down whenever I think about going back to it." In truth, he was very eager to finish his work. More than ever now.

    He was after all Raelle''s certified best friend and his eyesight was as always very good. How could he not perceive what was happening around him? He might have been oblivious when he ran into Amiahst time since she was emotional so he didn''t take it seriously. But this time, he was very clear about what emotions her eyes had.

    He was also aware that she had been looking at him since she came here and that was making him very uneasy. Don''t ask. He was truly not interested in her. He was being very nice by trying to ignore because Amiah was still Shui Xian''s sister and he didn''t want to go overboard. But that passionate gaze of Amiah was scalding him.

    If it really went on, he might really end up doing something.

    Something that didn''t go well with the persona he had.

    So, the only solution he had was to pray that he got selected today. Even if he didn''t, he''d just ask Li Xinxin to find his new projects and just reduce the number of days he had to spend on Amiah''s set. The sooner he kept his distance, the better.

    Unknowingly, his thoughts were on the same route as his best friend. But even if he knew, he wouldn''t be surprised. They were soulmates for a reason. They had to have some telepathic connection, no?

    "Then..." before Lin Zhen could continue the others finished his words for him...

    "Take care of yourself," said Pei Zi Hong.

    "Wear more clothes if the weather is changing. It rains a lot over there," said Huang Shuyi.

    "Make sure to eat well," said Feng Yiwen.

    Lin Zhen was left pursing his lips as he stared at all of them as they heartlesslyughed together and even Hyson joined them.

    "Laugh. Laugh all you want!" Lin Zhen didn''t know what else to say to them.

    "Zhen Ge, you''re so adorable. You always say the same things to all of us," said Hyson. "You can''t me us for remembering all of your advice by now."

    "I''d be more than happy if any of you actually followed even half of my advice," was Lin Zhen''s response. He was so fed up with these kids who didn''t know how to even take care of themselves when he wasn''t around. "You all are grown-ups now. We all have to work separately more often from now. Can you be more responsible from now? I won''t be around to make sure everything is okay."

    "Zhen Ge, you sound like you''re abandoning your kids,"mented Feng Yiwen.

    "I wish I could disown you all!"

    Everyone burst outughing at his words.

 Chapter 943: [Bonus chapter] Seriously

    Chapter 943: [Bonus chapter] Seriously

    Meanwhile, where Mu Chenyan, Shui Xian, and Cui Xukun had been seated, it wasplete silence. A stifling, intimidating, filled with gunpowder kind of silence. Or maybe that was just Cui Xukun''s illusion right now. Either way, he wasn''t feeling very good and didn''t think he was in a good situation. Poor him was in a difficult situation and couldn''t keep up his expressions in front of Mu Chenyan. How could he when Mu Chenyan just sat there like a queen with his legs crossed, her fingers tapping on the armrest while her eyes peered at him thoughtfully? He felt like his soul was being stripped off with that gaze. In front of her, he sat like a student who was being disciplined by a teacher. He sat straight and tried to keep up hisposure but it was getting tougher with each passing second. He didn''t know why this silence was so prolonged.

    On the other hand, Shui Man had a smile as he looked at this silent confrontation.

    "I heard you took Cloe to meet your sister," finally Mu Chenyan broke the silence and he breathed a sigh of relief a little too early though.

    "Yes," answered Cui Xukun. "My sister raised me and she is very important to me. Since Cloe is also very important to me, I wanted the two of them to meet and get to know each other."

    Although she didn''t show it, Mu Chenyan was quite satisfied with that answer. It showed that he took their Clue seriously.

    "Do you know the circumstances of Cloe''s family?" asked Mu Chenyan. "She told me a little," replied Cui Xukun. "But it doesn''t matter. Our rtionship is ours. I''m willing to stand with her." Mu Chenyan gave him a look before saying, "Let me make it clear. Cloe had been with our family for a decade now and she is like a part of the family now. Whatever her parents do has nothing to do with us. For us, she is very special. So, I hope you''re serious about this rtionship." "I couldn''t be more serious," said Cui Xukun solemnly. "It''s good if you''re serious," she added. "However, that is not enough. I''m not truing to make things difficult for you but I do hope you understand that hurting her is not an option. Don''t think you can do whatever just because she is alone. Because she isn''t. She isn''t alone at all. By now, you should understand that the Xiang family takes their people very seriously. We are protective people and go to extremes for our people."

    "You can trust me," said Cui

    "Yeah, I don''t," she replied inly. "But it has nothing to do with you. I just am not that interested in your words. Anyone can make promises. After all, it''s just saying a few words. Who can get tired of speaking? Or make a few more promises? The matteres to whether you have what it takes to keep those promises or not. A get familiar with a horse when you ride it on long journies. In the same way, the only way to know a person is to spend a lot of time. Time can tell you everything. So, whether your words are credible or not, only time will tell." She took a pause and added, "For now, your attitude is good. So, I''ll let you pass easily. After all, you''re just dating her for now."

    "Mistress!" "What is it?"

    "Ady is here asking for you," replied the maidservant. "I''ming," said Mu Chenyan and stood up. While leaving, she didn''t forget to pat Cui Xukun''s shoulder once again as she added, "You keep your word. I''m watching you." Cui Xukun gulped once again as he watched her leave and then he pressed on his shoulder that she patted twice since he came here and both times, it was painful.

    Shui Manughed out loud seeing his situation earning himself a hateful re from Cui Xukun.

    "Is it fun, Shui Man?" asked Cui Xukun through gritted teeth. Shui Man nodded his head, "It is." He pointed at Cui Xukun''s seat saying, "It''s not fun there but, it''s fun from here." He was gesturing towards his own position. Indeed, as an onlooker, this scene was too entertaining. It wasn''t that good when he was a part of it. He tsked, "You got off way too easily though. You should be happy."0

    "Why? Did she beat you?" asked Cui Xukun curiously. "No," replied Shui Man. "But don''t try to test her, Yanyan doesn''t mind beating as well."

    Cui Xukun instantly shut up when he heard that. Of course, he was not looking to test anyone here. He was very serious about Cloe. And he was actually very happy to see that Cloe wasn''t alone. When he learned about Cloe''s family situation he felt very bad for her and even told her that he''d share his family with her.

    But she said, she doesn''t need that. She already found a home. 0 Only now did he understand what she meant. Someone was willing to treat her like a family rather than just an employee, and that gave Cloe a ce to put her faith in. It really became a home to her. No wonder she had such a high opinion when it came to Raelle Xiang.

    Shui Man patted his shoulder encouragingly, "Wee to the family! I still don''t like you but I''ll be civil considering we once were best friends." "Geez! Thanks! But you''re still hateful!" "I don''t care," replied Shui Man. "And you''d sound more believable if you move your hand away from my sore shoulder!"

    Shui Man pressed his lips together to hide his smile and said in a fake tone, "Oh, sorry! I didn''t realize!"

    "Of course, you did!" Cui Xukun didn''t believe a word he said. He wasn''t gonna fall for that sweet smile. He wasn''t one of those girls who were fans of this sunny boy Shui Man. He was after all best friends with this man once upon a time. He was long immune to that sunny smile. Besides, Shui Man''s smile wasn''t even as sunny as it used to be. Now, it held a very dark edge to it..

    exis

    Myptop is malfunctioningtely. Pm losing a loi of dots!

 Chapter 944: Having Opinions

    Chapter 944: Having Opinions

    "How is Tang Hebe?" asked Cui Xukun ruining Shui Xian''s good mood. He wanted to punch him right now. "Why are you asking me about her? Am I rted to her? How would I know how she is retorted Shui Man in a bad mood while ring at Cui Xukun. Cui Xukun rubbed his nose as he didn''t think he asked the wrong question. Even if they were not rted to each other anymore, they were at the same hospital, no? Howe Shui Xian didn''t anew about Tang Hebe''s condition? Was he really disinterested?

    "Shouldn''t you know? She was in the same hospital and on the same floor as your wife," reminded Cui Xukun. "If you want to know about her, go to see her yourself," said Shui Xian inly. "Or you can ask my wife instead of me. She is clearer about Tang Hebe''s health than me."

    Cui Xukun stared at him in disbelief. Was he hearing it right? Shui Xian''s wife was clearer about his ex-wife''s condition rather than him. Well, he didn''t think Shui Man really had to know about Tang Hebe. Having too much interest in her wasn''t good either considering he was already married to Raelle now. But who knew it''d be his wife, who''d be interested in Tang Hebe. So, the very first thought when he learned about Shui Xian''s second marriage was right. This is an odd couple! Definitely an odd one! "Why is she clearer than you?" asked Cui Xukun. "Because my wife isn''t an ungrateful person," replied Shui Xian. "Since Tang Hebe saved her, she obviously would pay a little more attention to her recovery. That''s all I know. Apart from that what interest Raelle has in Tang Hebe is unknown. After all, mere mortals can''t understand the thoughts of a goddess."

    Cui Xukun pursed his lips as he said, You don''t feel anything calling her a goddess so shamelessly?" "You disagree?" Shui Man gave him a look that said ''you dare say you disagree and I''m gonna tear you apart''..) Cui Xukun was so shocked by this reaction. Okay! His childhood best friend was broken. Yup! This man is broken! Forget it, there was no point arguing with him anyway. 0

    "You''re a lost cause," remarked Cui Xukun. "What did you say?" Cui Xukun shrugged, "I just said how you''re a mere mortal as well while she is a goddess. Do you think mortals deserve goddesses?" "What do you know? The best love stories are written between mortals and gods. Besides, who said mortals can''t covet goddesses? This love can go against the rules of heaven and earth."

    "Oh my gosh! Yup! Definitely a lost cause. I have no words!" Shui Man stood up to leave as he threw him a nce, "Who asked for your opinion? He wanted to go look for his wife because he was already missing her. But he ran into Xiang Wai and Zhai Yanjun as they wereing from upstairs. Xiang Wai was hugging Zhai Yanjun''s arm and had a sweet smile on his face which looked so out of ce. Seeing Shui Xian, the couple stopped and separated. But suddenly recalled that Shui Man already knew about them, so they very naturally went back to sticking together making Shui Man snicker at their actions. "If you both are trying to keep it a secret, at least be a little low-key,"mented Shui Xian. "The way you''re both looking at each other is practically like announcing to the whole world that you''re together."

    "You''re thinking too much, meifu(younger sister''s husband)!" said Xiang Wai. "I''m not thinking too much, Wai! Do you think everyone is blind here?" asked Shui Man. "In this house, no one is a fool. Everyone is exceptionally perceptive. They can even see the unseen. Much less your very obvious amorous nces. By now, everyone already knows something is going on between you two "No way," denied Xiang Wai but her expression was serious now. "Just because they aren''t speaking up doesn''t mean they don''t know," was Shui Xian''s response. "I know this family. Even if they know, they won''t speak unless you bring it up. After all, it''s your life and they don''t like being nosy."

    "If everyone knew, by now Aunt Yan would have started baring her teeth at Jun."

    "Yanyan isn''t that impulsive," said Shui Man. "As I said, they won''t speak unless you make your stance clear. Until then, even she''ll pretend like she is blind and can''t see what''s happening between you two. That''s just how they all

    Zhai Yanjun didn''t doubt Shui Man''s words even if Xiang Wai had doubts. After all, he was also quite familiar with this family and knew how they were. "Then what should we do?" asked Xiang Wai in a very innocent manner. She looked like a lost kid who didn''t know how to carry on or what to do from now on. It baffled Shui Man.

    Truly, the person who could be considered ''simple'' in this family was actually this thorny Major Xiang Wai. Yup! She was very simple. At least whenpared to other members of this family. He suddenly wondered how this middle child of the family managed to be born in this family. Wasn''t she a little out of ce being squeezed between someone like Xiang Weimin above and Raelle Xiang below?

    He sighed mentally. Maybe that was Xiang Wai''s charm though. Being simple. "Do nothing," said Shui Man. "Just be yourself. There is no need to change anything. As I said, as long as you won''t explicitly speak about your rtionship, no one will bring up this topic." "Even if they have opinions?" asked Xiang Wai. Shui Man chuckled, "Major, you''re oddly adorable. Even if anyone has opinions in this family, they keep them to themselves. This is your life and your life partner is your choice. They won''t force you to change yourself or your feelings." "But didn''t they have opinions and that''s why Raelle married you?" "You have the wrong information," said Shui Xian. "Ours might be an arranged marriage but we both met each other and it was after we agreed that they proceeded. Trust me, there was nothing against our will going on. You can be at peace."

    Xiang Wai finally stopped asking questions. She just realized that she had more to learn about her family. She had a long way to go.. Sigh!

 Chapter 945: [Bonus chapter] Cat Slave

    Chapter 945: [Bonus chapter] Cat ve

    Mu Chenyan didn''t know who came to see her today out of nowhere. She didn''t think any of her acquaintances would show up straight at her home without informing her. After all, no matter whatnd of statuses they had, every single of them was scared of Grandfather Xiang and would rather call her out to meet than at her home.

    You see, plenty of times they were caught together with Mu Chenyan while wreaking havoc and then the mighty Elder Xiang of his younger days would make them do horse stances for hours or make them swim in the freezing cold river. All in all, the military punishment wasn''t good. She knew since she also had to join them. There was no such thing as tenderness for the fairer sex.

    And since those younger days, all of her ''friends'' had a psychological shadow. Besides, the maid said it was a youngdy who came to see her. How many youngdies does she know? She could count them on her hands. "Hi!" Mu Chenyan greeted the youngdy who had her back towards her. The young woman turned around to face her and a toothy grin appeared on her face as she called out, "Gugu(patemal aunt)!" Mu Chenyan felt a vein ticking in her temple when she faced this girl and almost rolled her eyes, "Jinjin, what are you doing here?"0 Gou Jinjin rushed over and hugged Mu Chenyan tightly saying, "I wanted to meet you." "How old are you? What''s with the hugs?" Although Mu Chenyan sounded like she was berating her niece, she didn''t actually push her away. Well, who made her the world''s most awesome aunt? She had only so many nieces and she doted on each one. 0 "Gugu! Gugu! Gugu!" Gou Jinjin kept calling her while shaking her body making Mu Chenyanugh.

    "And here I thought you''re like me, what''s with this coquettish behavior? How is this like me?"

    "Hehe! I only do this with my favorite Gugu!" said Gou Jinjin. "I missed you so much. I haven''t seen you in a long time."

    "Well, whose fault is that? I''ve been here for almost a year now. It''s the first time you came to see me," said Mu Chenyan as she poked her forehead. "Isn''t it because you didn''t even tell anyone you''reing?" retorted Gou Jinjin. "Do you think if I knew you''re here, I''ll wait until now to show up? If it wasn''t for Raelle''s hospitalization, I still wouldn''t have known that you came back to the country." "You''re clearly not very well informed," said Mu Chenyan feeling no burden regarding the fact that she indeed didn''t inform anyone from her maternal family about her return. Well, in her defense she told no one about her return. Those who learned about her return were just well-informed people. Not like she purposely announced her whereabouts. If she did that, she won''t have peace for a day.

    It had been so quiet since she came back but now, slowly people were learning that she was back and trouble won''t be far.

    "Raelle had been hospitalized for a while and she did tell me about meeting you too, why didn''t youe after that?" asked Mu Chenyan. "I was waiting for Raelle to get discharged," replied Gou Jinjin. "I figured you''d be happier once she recovers so I waited patiently. Also, I was going through some serious heartbreak"

    "Who broke my niece''s heart? Don''t they who your Gugu is? Which bastard is it?^€0 Gou Jinjin chuckled, "It''s my cat." Mu Chenyan was dumbfounded when she heard that. "My cat disowned me, Gugu! Can you believe it? I pampered her like a princess but she disowned me for a pretty-faced boyfriend! How despicable! She chose love over her mother! What a tragic fate I have."0 Mu Chenyan heard her seriously before sighing, "You''re definitely my niece. There is no doubt." 0 She didn''t know what else to say. Seriously, she was worried for a minute because Gou Jinjin indeed looked heartbroken and Mu Chenyan was ready to throw hands. Who knew this heartbreak story was about a cat? What could Mu Chenyan do about this? Go and kidnap the cat back? Hmm... Sounds like a good idea. 0 "How about I kidnap your cat back?" suggested Mu Chenyan. Gou Jinjinn sighed heavily, "Forget it, Gugu. I thought about it a lot and realized that I can''t keep people from leaving. It''s the destiny of parents to say goodbye to their princesses. I can''t always keep her with me. You also had to say goodbye to Raelle and send her away." 0 Wow! She justpared Raelle to her cat. What an analogy! Mu Chenyanughed out heartily and rubbed her head, "Aiyo! There is definitely a reason why I like you." "As long as Gugu likes me, I can ovee anything," replied Gan Jinjin. She actually looked different than usual. She certainly was looking dispirited. It seemed the betrayal of her cat really hit this cat ve. Ahem. Cat mother. She even died her hair back to ck from her mboyant red ones. Now, she looked more like someone who worked at a hospital but those dark circles and tired looks on her face were ruining her good looks a little bit. There was a reason Gou Jinjin was so close to Mu Chenyan. Not just because they were simr in temperament. It was also because Gou Jinjin didn''t wait for Mu Chenyan toe and visit the Gou family over the holidays. She''d find time to go and look for Mu Chenyan instead. That''s why she really developed a close rtionship with this aunt who usually kept her distance from the family. "Come inside, there are a lot of people here tonight," said Mu Chenyan. "I''ll introduce you to everyone. Then I''ll feed you a hearty meal. There is nothing that can''t be solved with food. Good food is the solution to all the troubles in the world.."

 Chapter 946: More Time With You

    Chapter 946 More Time With You

    When Mu Chenyan said there are a lot of people here tonight, Gou Jinjin didn''t think much about it but once she saw the people in the living room, only then she understood. There were definitely a lot of people here. Well, she should be used to it considering she had a big family but she wasn''t.

    But soon, she actually becamefortable there. When her big family gathered, considering everyone was a doctor or in the field of medicine somehow, they only talked about that making it seem like a boring lecture. Here on the other hand things were different. Everyone came from different backgrounds and had different personalities.

    It seemed more lively.

    "How''s your cat?"

    Hearing that question from Raelle, Gou Jinjin''s face dropped, "Raelle, let''s not talk about it. It hurts." The person she was most familiar with here was Raelle apart from her aunt. But of course, she had met Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin as well so it wasn''t as awkward as she thought it''d be.

    "Let''s have dinner!" announced Mu Chenyan and asked everyone to gather around for dinner. Since there were more people tonight, they went to the dining hall to eat at the grand dining table which usually was left unused in this small family.

    Now, it was of some use.

    When Mu Chenyan clipped some green pepper beef tenderloin for Gou Jinjin, she said, "Eat more."

    Hearing that, Hyson almost choked up on food he had yet to swallow. He drank some water and patted his chest. You can''t me the poor guy, on this table, there wasn''t a single person who hadn''t heard the same phrase from Mu Chenyan before. Suddenly, his eyes fell on Cui Xukun and Amiah who were sitting a bit far from Mu Chenyan''s reach and Hyson changed his words. Okay, there were two others who hadn''t been served like this.

    Even everyone from his group had been told the same thing the first time they showed up. And now, his amazing godmother took it upon herself to feed the new target.

    Unbeknownst to Hyson''s thoughts, everyone enjoyed the meal heartily as always. It was true when Hyson say that no one can leave this house feeling unfulfilled. There was always something to eat here.

    After dinner, everyone scattered again. This time, Hyson pulled Raelle away from everyone.

    "What are you doing?" asked Raelle. "Where are you taking me?"

    "Let''s sit under the moon and enjoy the summer breeze," suggested Hyson.

    "Even if you''re interested in feeding the mosquitoes out there, I''m not," replied Raelle. "There is nothing to see out there."

    Hyson rolled his eyes and then finally relented, "Then let''s sit in the sunroom? Okay?"

    "Sounds good."

    So the two of them went to sit in the sunroom.

    "So, what do you want to talk about?" asked Raelle. Of course, since he dragged her all the way here, he must have something to say. Or he wouldn''t insist on pulling her here.

    Hyson silently paced around as she sat there and looked at him moving around.

    "What is it?"

    "It''s nothing," he said. "I just thought to spend more time with you since I won''t be around for at least a month."

    "That''s all?" she asked.

    "That''s all," he replied.

    "Hyson, say something that I can actually believe," said Raelle. "Stop wasting my time. Get to the point. Or if you''re so eager to spend time with me, how about we have a movie marathon tonight?"

    Hyson tsked at her, "You just know how to use my weakness against me."

    "I learned it from you," she told him.

    "Are you saying all the bad things are taught by me?"

    "Isn''t that the truth?"

    Hyson gaped at her and sighed, "Fine. It''s me. Of course, it''s me. It''s my duty in this world to teach you all the wrong things."

    "Get to the point," she said again.

    "It''s about your sister-inw," he started. "Don''t kill me if I rejected her and in the process, hurt her."

    Raelle gave him a look, "Do you think between you and her, I''ll choose her?"

    "No," he replied. "But if given the chance, you''ll definitely choose to protect her."

    "Do you really need my protection?" she asked. "Just because you like acting like a baby, doesn''t mean you are one."

    Hyson stuck his tongue out at her. "Whatever. I just thought of giving you a heads-up. Also, when I''m not here, take care of yourself. Your health is very important. Don''t take it so lightly. There is no rush to work. You pay people high sries to work. They should learn to function without you. And don''t..."

    "Stop." Hyson looked up at her. "I don''t wanna hear your nagging."

    Hyson rolled his eyes at her, "Of course, it''s nagging. Anyway, when I''m not around, keep an eye on Opa, Yanyan, and my mum as well. I have an intuition that things won''t be going smoothly. So, you have to keep an eye on my mum. Although Yanyan can take on anything, you should still lend her a hand."

    "Got it."

    "Also, go a little easy on your siblings and your father when I''m not here. Even if there is no need to be friendly, you can be civil."

    "I''m always civil."

    "Oh? Then refrain from saying too much. Remember the lesson I gave you, you don''t always have to say what''s on your mind. Somethings can be kept inside."

    "You of all people shouldn''t be giving me this advice," said Raelle.

    Hyson cleared his throat. He definitely shouldn''t be giving that advice since he usually doesn''t follow it himself but it didn''t stop him from telling her to follow it.

    "Is there anything else?" she asked.

    "I''ll miss you. So, you better miss me too!"

    "I''ll try to remember you," she replied.

    Hyson went over and held her shoulders saying, "I''ll make sure to keep reminding you of my presence. Don''t think it''s so easy to forget me!"

    Raelle looked at his face and said, "I don''t know what to do with you."

    Hyson messed up all her hair saying, "You can''t do anything at this point."

 Chapter 947: [Bonus chapter] Same Answers

    Chapter 947: [Bonus chapter] Same Answers

    Hyson sat down beside her and then Leaned his head on her shoulder after she fixed her hair. Raelle on, Looked at him when his weight was put on her shouLder but didn''t push him away. She just Let him be as always.

    "I thought it was enough with just me and my mum; Hyson started softly. Mut I''ming to a realization that it might be enough for me, but it isn''t enough for my mum. What should I do?"

    "What do you want to dor asked

    "I''m not so sure," he answered. "I''m reaLLy n. sure. You know the kind of person I am. I have always been just following the wind of Life. I''m still the same. Th.''s why I''m not sure about what to do in this situation." He took a pause, and ask., "I know she Loves him. I can see it I saw it very cLeatty when they met after years. I felt It even more deady just yesterday. The way she Looks at him is differ.,

    "It''s not Like you can do anything about her feelings," she said ?Isn9 that what you used to teach me? You cant fight your feelings. And you can''t ask her to abandon her feelings. Even if time, distance, and allthe hardships couldn''t stop her from Loving him, who are you?"

    "Right, who am I?" he repeated., I was not in the picture, the ˇ­ion would have been simpler right now. My existence makes it impossible for my mum to ever speak out her feelings."

    ReeLLe''s hand wentto his fluffy hair and she said, ''There you go again, talking nonsense."

    Hyson snickered, nff s not entire, nonsense though." He brief, dosed his eyes as he went on, "My identity is very awkward. If revealed, it can ruin whatever they have between us right now." He sighed, "Should I support her or n.?"

    "Did you pick up your neat matchmaking target? You actually Locked on your own mother?''

    Hyson chuck., "I need to find customers. keep my business running." Reette rafted his hair, "You should do your own work. Don''t get involved unnecessarily, Hyson pursed his Lips and nodded, "Fine." "By the way, you reaLLydon''t wanna think about Amiehr "No," he replied straightforwardly. "Do you reaLLy want me to get together with herr "What I want is not the poi. What you want is the point." "Weft, I done want her," said Hyson. "Her personality doesn''t., mine." "Oh, I remember you saying that rtionships take effort and you can make any rtionship work out as Long as you''re witting to put effort into it. No matter what kind of people you are." "You should forg. I said hundred years ago!" He was so annoyed by her reminders of things he said so Long ago. ?I''m not even attracted. her."

    "You''re not attracted. anyone; reminded Rae.. "And how ''LL you find the attractive point you wont even tryr

    ˇ­Let''s be real She and I are not a good match. I don''t mind putting effort The thing is, I don9 like anything about her."

    "I Learned it from you; he also threw it back at her. "How can I not be rude being your hest frien, Besides, I''m not being rude. lust being real I might be a btunt person, but !have never disrespected anyone in my Life. ALL she does is disrespect people. N.H. her father but also the people she works with. Her ego is too big. My hunble self can''t take it."

    "You know, people are gonna hate you for saying that"

    "I don9 care," he said. "And above att I have a L. going on in my Life right now. I don9 have time for this. You know I am not Looking for a rtionship. At Least, not now."

    "Then what are you Looking., she asked. This question wasn''t new to him. This had been asked countless times and the question always came from the same person.

    Unfortunatety, the answer was still the same, "1 don''t know. I''LL Let you know when I find it,

    "Howe your answer doesn''t change?" "Ellie. let''s count stars. shall we?" he suggested out of nowhere. "Troublesome!" she replied.

    Hyson grinned, "See? Your answer doesn''t change as well. You''re expecting too much from me if you think mine will change."

    "You are the only person who loves to argue with me." "It''s my life''s goal." They fell silent for a while.

    "I''ll keep an eye on Yue." she told him. "So, don''t worry so much about her matters. I can''t be certain about where her feelings will take her. But I assure you. I won''t let anyone hurt her. Even if that''s your father. Mr. Zhai Kuijun."

    "Eeeh! Don''t call him my father. I told you! It''s just a sperm donor! Sperm donor! Got it?" "Yeah, sure!" "You don''t sound very believable." "I always sound the same." "I can tell the difference! I''m your soulmate for a reason!" "This soulmate of mine is so troublesome as well." "Your husband is also troublesome!" "So what? I''m willing to take the trouble for him?" "Damn! You just threw dog food at my face, have you no shame?" "No shame! I just decided to feed that shame to a dog!" Hyson red at her. "Are you calling me a dog?"

    "Aren''t you one? Little adorable puppy?" "No! I prefer being a cat! Arrogant! And aloof! Above all!" "You''re asking for too much." "If it''s you. I am allowed to ask for too much." "Hyson." "Yes?" "Do a good job out there. Don''t just worry about the family. I''m still here." "Can I even trust you? You can''t even take care of yourself." "I won''tment on that" "Because you have nothing to say. Hahaha! I made you speechless." "No. I just don''t do pointless things."

    While they continued to banter like little kids who had nothing better to do, both of them didn''t realize that someone just heard their discussion. And that person was currently in disbelief and seemed to have Lost their soul from the information..

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 948: Evil Schemer

    Chapter 948: Evil SchemerIn a daze, walking back Xiang Wai ran into Zhai Yanjun who asked, "Wai, didn''t you go to find Raelle? Did you see her?"

    Xiang Wai seemed to have not heard his question at all. Her eyes were unfocused and she looked soulless right now. Zhai Yanjun frowned. This was not how he sent her. She was just gone for five minutes and became like this? What happened?

    He held her shoulder and stared into her eyes, "Wai! Come back to earth!"

    "Oh? Ohh? W-what? What happened?"

    "I''m asking you that, what happened? Why do you look so lost?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    The information she just heard from Raelle and Hyson reyed in her mind and her eyes widened. She dodged his gaze and said, "Umm... I''m not lost. Haha. I''m just... Just thinking about something. Yes! I''m thinking about something."

    Zhai Yanjun found it very strange that she actually avoided looking into his eyes and was now actually rambling. Yes, he could tell it was rambling.

    "Did you see Raelle? Was Yue Fai with her? I want to see him before leaving. I heard he is leaving tomorrow."

    Xiang Wai looked away from him saying, "Well, I didn''t see them." It was her luck that she was speaking the truth right now. She really didn''t see them because she only heard their voices. If she had seen them, she wouldn''t dare to lie because it''d be easier to catch her. Now, he can''t find a w right?

    However, she didn''t realize that she was already giving the guilty party vibes. Zhai Yanjun could clearly see something was wrong but he didn''t try to probe into it since she was trying so hard to seem normal.

    "Okay, I''ll just look for them myself," he said and tried to walk past her.

    But Xiang Wai held his arm to stop him. She was afraid that if he walked over there, he might also hear something he isn''t supposed to. What would she do then? It was better to stop him here.

    "They are not there," said Xiang Wai.

    "Who is not there?"

    Xiang Wai''s luck was really not with her tonight since she had just lied and there came Hyson''s voice from behind her. Zhai Yanjun looked at Hyson and then at Xiang Wai who was still holding his arm. She was trying to leave, but why? Zhai Yanjun couldn''t understand so he stopped bothering with this thought.

    "It''s good that you''re here, I was looking for you," told Zhai Yanjun.

    "Me? Why? What for? What do I have to do with you? Don''t always try to get chummy."

    Zhai Yanjun ignored all his nonsense and hooked his neck saying, "I heard you''re leaving. I thought I should say goodbye."

    Hyson was trying to push his arm away from his neck but Zhai Yanjun just refused to budge.

    "You must be very happy to know I''m not gonna be around," said Hyson.

    Zhai Yanjun smiled brightly, "What are you saying? It''s nothing like that. I''m obviously gonna be very lonely without you. But don''t worry about me. I''ll juste to find Ayi to get somefort."

    Hyson gritted his teeth and growled in a low voice. Rather than looking scary, he looked so adorable instead that Zhai Yanjun pinched his cheek. Hyson swatted his hand away in exasperation. Thest time he wasn''t around, this Captain took advantage of his absence to get close to his mother and he was nning on doing that again.

    What an evil schemer!

    Zhai Yanjun was very amused by Hyson''s expressions right now. He looked like a hedgehog ready to throw his thorns and injure him.

    Hyson took a deep breath and calmed himself. He couldn''t do anything about it. So, he chose a different approach, "When I''m not around, you better take care of my mum. If your family came to annoy my mum, it won''t end well. I''m telling you, I''ll beat you if my mum is hurt while I''m away."

    Zhai Yanjun chuckled, "I will try my best to protect her."

    "I highly doubt you can protect her,"mented Hyson. "She needs protection from your family!"

    Zhai Yanjun couldn''t argue with that sine it was true so he chose to stay silent.

    "Also, don''t be so dumb. Grow a little brain. Learn to cherish the people you love. You can get them back once but it won''t happen again. So, cherish them while you have the chance. And don''t whine when they are gone."

    Zhai Yanjun''s smile turned a bit gentle when he realized what Hyson was talking about. He held Xiang Wai''s hand and pulled it to his mouth. Pressing his lips against the back of her hand, he told Hyson, "Don''t worry. I''ll cherish her well."

    "It''d be good if you can," said Hyson. "It won''t be as simple as making her cry this time around. Because a lot of people will be after your life if she cried because of you."

    "I know," said Zhai Yanjun. He rubbed Hyson''s head, "Thank you for caring about me so much!"

    Hyson threw his hand off, "Who is worried or cares about you? Don''t take yourself so seriously. I''m doing it for her."

    Seeing Hyson pointing at herself, Xiang Wai raised her brow, "Me?"

    "Of course!"

    "I don''t think we are on that good terms," remarked Xiang Wai.

    "Still, you''re part of the family," said Hyson. "We don''t abandon family. No matter how dumb or annoying they are."

    "Did you just call me dumb and annoying?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "I did," replied Hyson. "What can you do about it?"

    Xiang Wai looked like she was ready to bite him. She had been silently watching the interaction between these two brothers where one waspletely oblivious to the fact that the other was his own half-brother! But her silence and thoughts were interrupted by Hyson who just had to drag her in this conversation and roast her again! This guy really had nothing better to do in life!

 Chapter 949 Keeping A Secret

    Chapter 949 Keeping A Secret

    But after watching their interaction closely once again, Xiang Wai realized something. Zhai Yanjun really loved Hyson. Even though, to him, Hyson was just the son of his aunt. But Zhai Yanjun truly loved this little brother and would always feel happy with him around. In fact, while chattingtely, he did bring up Hyson''s name very often and mentioned their teasing and yful banters.

    And now seeing up close, Xiang Wai realized that Hyson might speak like he''s throwing thorns at you but in fact, all his words were indicating his care and worry towards Zhai Yanjun. Even though he was the younger one, he was more mature mentally and knew what he was doing. So, Hyson hadn''t been ying around all this time. He always had a reason behind everything he did.

    It''s not she didn''t know he was the one who orchestrated the whole blind date for the sake of getting her and Zhai Yanjun to speak up about their true feelings. Whether he put so much effort into bringing them close was for Zhai Yanjun''s sake or hers was clear to anyone. She knew it wasn''t for her. He definitely was doing it for Zhai Yanjun''s sake.

    She stared at Hyson for a very long time in silence.

    "Are flowers blooming on my face?" asked Hyson when he got tired of her intense gaze.

    "No," she replied. "But I just realized, your smile is prettier than flowers."

    "Huh?" Hyson was dumbfounded by that response. "If I didn''t know any better, I''d have thought you''re hitting on me right now."

    Xiang Wai chuckled, "Nah. I''m definitely not hitting on you."

    "I know," he replied and shook his head before leaving.

    Zhai Yanjun also said goodbye and left since he had to get back to the base. Slowly, everyone left the house and the crowded house slowly looked deserted. Xiang Wai also went to her room and took a shower to prepare for bed.

    After lying down on the bed, she tossed and turned for an hour without any sleep and sat up. She pulled her own head, "Ah! Mind, can''t you forget that? Let''s remove that memory!"

    However, her mind only became louder rather than going as silent as she wanted it to. If only deleting a part of your memory was that easy. She drank some water and paced around but nothing was helping.

    The fact that Hyson was Zhai Kuijun''s son kept ringing in her mind.

    She didn''t know how to process this. So, she opened the door and went out. Right across from her was Xiang Weimin''s room, she stood at the door and hesitated before knocking on the door. She wasn''t certain if he was still awake at this time or not. But she had to talk to someone.

    She didn''t know if he was asleep or not, she just checked the time and it was 1 o''clock in the morning now. What was she doing to disturb her brother right now?

    But before she could turn around to leave, the door opened and Xiang Weimin appeared before her eyes.

    "Ge, did I wake you up?" asked Xiang Wai sheepishly.

    Xiang Weimin looked at her calmly before he stepped aside and gestured for her toe inside, "Come in."

    Xiang Wai pressed her lips together and walked in with her head lowered, "Sorry for disturbing you."

    "Just sit," said Xiang Weimin. "When did you be so formal with your Ge? Didn''t you use to that your Ge is obliged to be at your service at any given time?"

    Xiang Wai hehe-ed at that because that''s what she truly believed. As the elder brother, it was his job to be always there for her. How dare he find her burdensome?"

    "What''s up?" asked Xiang Weimin as he closed hisptop and sat down with her. "Something on your mind? What''s the secret that''s keeping you awake?"

    "Ge, how do you know it''s a secret?" asked Xiang Wai in surprise.

    "You''re my sister," replied Xiang Weimin. "Even with bombs exploding beside you, you''ll find a way to go to sleep. This current appearance of yours is exactly the same as when you learned your friend''s girlfriend was cheating on him. You were restless wondering whether to tell your friend about this or not."

    Xiang Wai scratched her head, "I had really been like this." She took a deep breath and said, "But this time, it''s worse. Ge, I feel so stifled. I don''t know what to say. I heard something I wasn''t supposed to. But now that I know, I don''t know what to do with this information."

    "What did you hear?" asked Xiang Weimin curiously. He was genuinely curious about what could mess up his sister''s mind so much.

    Xiang Wai looked at her brother. She obviously trusted him the most in the world and didn''t feel like there was anything to hide from him. After all, this secret didn''t effect him in any way.

    "I heard that Hyson''s father is..."

    "Is Uncle Kuijun," Xiang Weiminpleted her words for him since she was having so much difficulty saying them.

    "You know?" Xiang Wai was left gaping at him in shock and disbelief was written all over her face. "How do you know? Since when? Why didn''t you say anything? Who told you?"

    "No one told me," said Xiang Weimin. "No one had to. It wasn''t that difficult to read between the lines." He took a pause and added, "Dad also knows."

    "Does that mean...?"

    "No," Xiang Weimin shook his head. "Dad didn''t tell uncle Kuijun. And I don''t think he ns on doing that."

    Xiang Wai thought she''d be able to clear her thoughts after sharing things with her brother but she just realized how naive she was. Things just became messier aftering here. Now, she had a lot more on her mind. Argh! This was not what she came for! She was looking for peace! Why was this happening to her? What did she do wrong?

 Chapter 950: Deception

    Chapter 950: Deception"Ge, you''re telling me that you figured it all out on your own?" asked Xiang Wai dumbly.

    Xiang Weimin wanted to shake his head when she asked it like that. It reminded him that his sister could be a little slow at times to catch up with certain things. She wasn''t as detailed oriented as other family members so she often overlooked things.

    There was nothing wrong with that. She was normal. That''s what most people were like.

    The only problem was that she was the only normal one in this family. The rest could be considered freaks for their ability to see through things.

    But he couldn''t lie to her. That''d be too obvious. "I did figure it out."

    Xiang Wai wanted tough out loud. Not because it was funny but because she couldn''t think of any other reaction at the moment. How was she supposed to react?

    "Since when?" she asked further.

    "It''s been a while," he answered vaguely. Not telling her that he figured it out very early on.

    Shui Xian''s words were ying in her mind right now when he told her that in this family, everyone could see everything. But they just chose to stay silent.

    Thinking of that, she asked, "Ge, do you know that I''m back together with Yanjun?"

    Xiang Weimin cleared his throat before he nodded, "I do."

    "Of course, you do," she gritted out as she rubbed her temples. She was really oblivious to the ability of her own family members. How could she be living in her own simple world? "Why didn''t you ask me anything?"

    "It''s your decision," replied Xiang Weimin. "Why would I question it? You didn''t seem like you wanted to talk about it, so I just didn''t bring up the topic. I thought you''d speak whenever you feelfortable with sharing. I can wait. I''m in no hurry."

    "Ge, do you think I look like a fool?" she asked seriously.

    Xiang Weimin shook his head, "Why would you even say that? You''re so smart. How can you question your ability? You got the fastest promotions to the rank of a Major in the field of Special Forces. You never failed your mission. You have so many medals to prove your ability. Don''t just think about this nonsense."

    Xiang Wei scratched her head, "How can I not? I know I''m usually very smart at work but why is it that I''m not that smart when ites to personal rtionships? Even Raelle is doing a better job than me."

    "Raelle is doing a very difficult job," said Xiang Weimin. "I''m actually d you''re simpler than her. It''s easier to talk to you. Do you know how many of my brain cells are at work just to hold a small conversation with her? It''s a tiring job."

    Xiang Wai chuckled, "She would not like to know that she is tiring to talk to."

    Xiang Weimin rubbed her head lovingly, "I think she already knows."

    "Right, she must know. She knows more than she lets on," said Xiang Wai. "Ge, what do you think I should do?"

    "About what?"

    "About this secret," she said. "I didn''t want to know it. They say; ignorance is bliss. I can rte to that right now. I was so blissful in ignorance but now that I know, I can''t pretend to be in ignorance. It''d be too obvious." She felt like crying now and Xiang Weimin could see that.

    And this was the reason he didn''t want to tell her about it. The rest of the family was okay with this secret being a secret but the same was not true with Xiang Wai. This girl was good with secrets.

    "What do you want to do?" he asked her.

    "I don''t know," she replied. "If I knew why would I be whining here before you?"

    "Wai, you''re not a kid," said Xiang Weimin. "You can make your own choices. We all chose to keep this secret, a secret at our own discretion. Not because someone asked us to do so. You also have to make your own choice. I can''t tell you what to do."

    "Ge, you''re not even helping?"

    "I understand that this secret is too much to take on for you. And considering that it is also rted to your boyfriend, your thinking is different than others. I''m not gonna tell you what to do. It''s really up to you entirely."

    "This is really not helpful," said Xiang Wai. She stood up, "Go back to your work, I''m leaving. You''re not even helping me anyway. No, you go to sleep. Have you seen the time?"

    "I''m not sleepy," replied Xiang Weimin. "You go to bed now. Stop thinking so much. Soon, smoke mighte out of your brain from overheating."

    Xiang Wai threw a cushion at him before saying, "To get some sleep, you should do more exercise." Xiang Weimin frowned at her while she went on, "You know the exercise that can be done on the bed with a partner." She even winked at him earning a scowl from her brother.

    "Out!"

    Xiang Wai stuck out her tongue and left his room. She wanted to m the door but her manners didn''t allow her to do so. In the end, she closed the door gently.

    Going back to her room, she threw herself on the bed and kicked in the air in frustration. She got nothing out of her discussion with her brother. She only got more confused.

    He said she had to think about it and make her own choice. But what to do when she couldn''t make her choice? Couldn''t he tell that this choice was very difficult? Was she supposed to tell Zhai Yanjun everything or not? Telling him will crash his life and not telling will be deceiving him. But there is happiness in deception. Maybe she should choose deception?

    She took her phone and saw that she had an unread message from Zhai Yanjun. She clicked it open and it read, ''Sleep well. Have sweet dreams!''

    "What the hell! Stop being sweet. I''m already confused!" she screamed into her pillow.

 Chapter 951: Got Sick

    Chapter 951: Got SickThe next day, Hyson left and so did Amiah. But obviously, they both went separately. Shui Koshing still had to go to work. At home, only Raelle and Shui Xian were left.

    Raelle was watching a documentary on the tv while Shui Xian sat on a side with a goofy smile. From time to time, Raelle would look his way and find him holding the guitar keychain she gifted him. He had already put all his keys into it and was now carrying it around. And when she asked, he replied that he had nowhere to go, so he decided to carry it inside the house.

    Raelle just let him be. It wasn''t the first time he was acting like this. She should be used to it by now.

    "Baby, I''m going down to make lunch for you."

    Raelle looked at him, "Why? There are so many people working in this house. Are you paying them to bezy?"

    Shui Xian kissed the top of her head saying, "I''ll make them prepare the ingredients. I''ll just be responsible for cooking. I feel like doing it."

    Raelle watched him leave and went back to watching the documentary. She had no problem seeing the snakes'' survival and hunt strategies being shown in front of her. Her eyes only moved when her phone rang.

    She picked it up and looked at the number disyed on the screen. Of course, she didn''t save this number but she was familiar with whose number it was.

    "Hello!"

    "It''s me," said the person on the other side.

    "I know," replied Raelle.

    "I just saw your message," replied Song Xin''ai. "I''m sorry for taking too long."

    "Were you ignoring my message on purpose?" asked Raelle.

    "No, that''s not it. My phone was in the locker. I had been staying inside theb these days," said Song Xin''ai.

    "Then there is no need for apology. I knew it''ll take you a while to get back to me when I texted you. I should apologize for contacting you out of nowhere."

    "You can contact me whenever you want to," said Song Xin''ai. "But I believe you won''t do unless you have to. So, there must be something you have to talk to me about?"

    "I have something to ask you," replied Raelle. "Do you think we can meet?"

    Song Xin''ai pressed her lips together and was eager to say yes but looking around when she noticed where she was, she couldn''t agree in such a hurry.

    "There is no need to meet right now," said Raelle. "I meant can we meet when you have time?"

    "I''m actually in another state at the moment," told Song Xin''ai honestly. "Can''t tell you more about it in detail because of confidentiality but I think I''ll be done within a week. Is it something urgent? If you''re in a hurry we can talk over the phone?"

    "No, it''s something I have to talk about this in person."

    Song Xin''ai was happy to hear that. She was more than happy to meet in person and talk. "Then I''ll text you when I''m back?"

    "Sure," replied Raelle. "Just leave me a message. You can decide the meeting location and time. I''ll show up."

    "Hmm..." Song Xin''ai hummed in response. She waited for a moment before asking, "Did you get discharged from the hospital?"

    "Yes, I''m home now," said Raelle.

    "Don''t mind me saying this but have plenty of rest. Don''t be in a hurry to get back to work."

    "Do you think my wish to go back to work immediately will work? I have a lot of people keeping an eye on me."

    Song Xin''ai smiled softly when she heard that, "Right. It''s good there are people. Then I''m hanging up now if there is nothing else."

    "Okay, bye!"

    "Bye!"

    She hung up and noticed that Shui Xian was back, "What''s up? Are you done already?"

    "No matter how fast I am, I can''t possibly finish cooking in fifteen minutes," said Shui Xian.

    "Then why are you back already?"

    "Yanyan called, she asked us to go over for lunch," told Shui Xian. "She is worried about your diet. I feel like she is actually nning on making you stay over there entirely so she can keep an eye on you."

    "Trust me, she doesn''t have that much time, or else, it won''t be your turn to keep mepany."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips. He also knew that. He went to hug her as he said, "So, who do you want to stay with? Me or Yanyan?"

    "Are you seriously asking me that question right now?" asked Raelle.

    "I am," he replied. "So, what''s the answer? You better think carefully before answering."

    "Childish," remarked Raelle as she stood up and dragged him up. "Let''s go over."

    Shui Xian sighed and helplessly followed her. Even he knew it was childish to ask that question but he couldn''t help it. He really needed to stop being like this.

    When they went over, they found that the house seemed a bit depressing. "What''s going on?"

    Xiang Weimin answered for her, "Wai is sick."

    "What? Wasn''t she finest night? She even had the time to be lovey-dovey with her secret boyfriend," said Shui Xian.

    Seeing Xiang Weimin''s gaze, Shui Xian shut up.

    Xiang Weimin sighed, "She doesn''t fall sick so easily but every time she does, it happens because of her own mind. Let''s say she brought it on herself." He should have known it. How could Xiang Wai be okay with knowing that secret? Now, there must be a lot going on within her and she must have decided to keep it a secret but that wasn''t easy for her. In the end, she ended up falling sick from all that thinking.

    He didn''t know whether to cry orugh at his sister right now.

    There was no other Xiang Wai in the world. Definitely, he was the one who got such unique sisters. Neither of them was cute but both were bizarre to the max! But being the elder brother, he could only love them and ept them for who they were. Who made him their elder brother?

 Chapter 952: Happy To Be Sick

    Chapter 952: Happy To Be Sick"Baby, you stay here," said Shui Xian. "I''ll go and see if Yanyan needs any help."

    Xiang Weimin looked at him and said, "He is trying to get brownie points here?"

    "You should learn," was Raelle''s response. "For future references."

    Xiang Weimin smiled at his sister, "I think I''m okay."

    "So, what really happened to Xiang Wai?" asked Raelle.

    Xiang Weimin contemted for a moment in silence before he decided to tell her. "She heard you and Fai talkingst night. About Fai''s father. She knows and she didn''t take it so well. As I said, she brought it on herself by overthinking. Don''t worry, she''ll be fine."

    "I''m not worried," said Raelle nkly. "In this house, I''m thest person whose worry she needs right now. Don''t you think so?"

    Xiang Weimin actually understood her meaning. Indeed, how could Xiang Wai be waiting for them right now? Since the early morning, Mu Chenyan and Grandfather Xiang were fretting about her fever. Even Yue Yue went in and out of her room, taking care of her. It wasn''t even his turn to go and see his sister, to show his concern because apparently, he wasn''t needed.

    Xiang Hulin already leftst night. He really dide to see Raelle and he left right after that as well. So, for now, he didn''t know about Xiang Wai being sick.

    In the room upstairs, even now, Grandfather Xiang was sitting beside Xiang Wai''s bed. She was sweating while Yue Yue wiped her body with a towel. Mu Chenyan had gone to prepare lunch.

    In her half-awake state, Xiang Wai rolled over and put her head on Grandfather Xiang''s thigh. He was surprised but didn''t dare to move. In this position, Xiang Wai''s upper body was in fact not on the bed anymore since Grandfather Xiang was in his wheelchair.

    She held his hand and ced it on her own head and finally smiled contentedly. "No wonder Raelle likes this position," she mumbled before she closed her eyespletely and went back to sleep.

    Grandfather Xiang''s hand on her head stiffened for a moment when he heard her say that. It made sense now. She must have seen how whenever Raelle came over, she would sit before him and put her head on his legs, allowing him to stroke her head. It was just how theymunicated since Raelle was young.

    But he didn''t think Xiang Wai would be thinking about it all this while.

    Yue Yue also pressed her lips when she saw what Xiang Wai did and said to Grandfather Xiang, ''She craves love and care.''

    Grandfather Xiang lovingly caressed Xiang Wai''s head saying, "Sillyss! Why get sick just to get some attention or act like a baby?" He pinched Xiang Wai''s nose, "You can act like a baby whenever you want. Grandfather doesn''t mind."

    Xiang Wai giggled at that, "Then I''ll keep bothering Grandfather."

    "How can you be a bother?" Grandfather Xiang shook his head, "You are my eldest granddaughter. Grandfather doesn''t find you bothersome. Just say whatever you want, Wai. Don''t always keep it inside you."

    Xiang Wai suddenly teared up and dropped a couple of tears, "Grandfather, I''m so happy that you''re here."

    Grandfather Xiang felt so distressed for her.

    "Get well soon! Grandfather doesn''t like seeing you like this."

    Xiang Wai nodded her head.

    "Tsk. I think she is gonna take her time recovering from this fever,"mented Xiang Weimin as he watched this scene with Raelle from the door. Usually, Xiang Wai would recover from a fever after taking the medicine and sleeping it off. How would she have the leisure to wait for the fever to break slowly? But this time, with so many people worrying about her, it was obvious that Xiang Wai was gonna bezy and wish that her fever stay longer just so she could soak in this care and love that wascking from her life for years.

    "Let''s go down. I think she is more than happy to be sick right now," said Xiang Weimin and turned to go back down. He even stopped worrying about his sister.

    Raelle actually agreed with his words and followed him downstairs.

    "Did you see Wai?" asked Mu Chenyan when they came down.

    "She is sleeping," answered Raelle. "Not the right time to see her."

    "Okay, then you can see herter," said Mu Chenyan. "You should stay over as well. Only you and Xian are at home, you can stay in front of my eyes so that I''d have one less person to worry about."

    "Yes," agreed Raelle knowing well about Mu Chenyan''s thoughts. If she also left, Mu Chenyan would keep thinking about how she was doing while fretting about Xiang Wai. It was safe for her to stay in front of Mu Chenyan to stop this worrywart from worrying so much.

    "Elle, you can go to your room to lie down," suggested Mu Chenyan.

    "Don''t want to," replied Raelle. "I''ll just sit around." She didn''t want to lie down. She finally escaped from the hospital bed, now, they want to again tie her to the bed? No way!

    "I should have stopped my lucky charm from leaving,"mented Mu Chenyan. "See? Right after he left, something went wrong."

    "Hyson isn''t a lucky charm," said Raelle. She would never understand why Mu Chenyan insisted on calling Hyson a lucky charm.

    "He is," insisted Mu Chenyan. "You just don''t understand it, Missy!"

    "And I never will," was Raelle''s response.

    Mu Chenyan looked at her back and sighed, "How should I make you understand then? As soon as my little Fai left everything in this house seemed dull. It''s as if no one lives here anymore." It had barely been hours since he left but this godmother was missing her precious godson who brought life to this house with his loudughter and nonstop chattering.

    No, she should say even when he was just sitting silently, the house seemed bright. In fact, it was truly difficult to make Raelle understand theseplicated thoughts of hers. It was better to let it be.

 Chapter 953: [Bonus chapter] Weak Act

    Chapter 953: [Bonus chapter] Weak Act*Ding-Dong!*

    "Missy, someone is asking to see Old Master."

    Raelle thought about it before asking, "Who is it?"

    "He says his name is Xia Zhao."

    "Xia Zhao?" repeated Raelle before she stood up and said, "Lead him to the sitting room and serve him well. I''ll inform Opa."

    "Yes."

    "Who is it?" asked Xiang Weimin since the name seemed kind of familiar but he couldn''t pinpoint where had he heard the name before.

    "Technically, he is Yanyan''s best friend. But he is asking to see Opa. Interesting,"mented Raelle. "I''m gonna tell Opa."

    "I can tell him, you shouldn''t move around so much."

    Raelle gave him a nk look and he sat back down.

    "You can do it. Moving around is good for the body."

    Only then did Raelle leave and Xiang Weimin breathed a sigh of relief.

    "Opa!"

    "Raelle, when did youe?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    "I''ve been here for a while. Someone is here to see you."

    "Who is it?"

    "Mr. Xia Zhao," replied Raelle.

 Chapter 954: From A Distance

    Chapter 954: From A Distance''What was it like growing up with Opa?''

    This question had nevere to Raelle so she really didn''t know how to answer it either. What was she supposed to say?

    "What do you really want to know?" asked Raelle.

    "Anything," replied Xiang Wai as she took a tissue and covered her mouth to sneeze and wipe her nose.

    "I''m not sure what to tell you or what you want to hear from me," started Raelle. "I think I grew up into a decent person because of Opa. I didn''t like to talk but he''d still sit with me every day for hours and chat about anything. He''d share the stories passed down from generation to generation in our family. Tell me how brave and patriotic our ancestors had been. Every night, he''de to check up on me to see if I was sleeping well. He even went to see top psychologists learn how to evoke some emotions into me. Even though it didn''t work, I appreciated the effort."

    Xiang Wai silently listened but didn''t say anything. She actually didn''t know what to say.

    "It must have been nice to have someone waiting for you at home every day,"mented Xiang Wai.

    "Yes," replied Raelle. "If there was no one waiting, I wouldn''t be trying my best to go back home every day." She took a moment to observe Xiang Wai''s expressions before telling her, "You know Opa always came back to the country on the death anniversary of our grandmother." Xiang Wai looked up at her, not knowing why she brought this topic up suddenly. "I never joined him. He came with Yanyan every time. And they''d stay for a week here. When I was young and only focused on absorbing knowledge into my brain, I didn''t notice it. But after I grew up, I learned that he stayed for a week because he took that time to go and visit you and Xiang Weimin."

    Xiang Wai''s eyes widened a little in surprise.

    "Since you both didn''t want to see him, he chose to see you from afar," said Raelle. "He had pictures of you in your school uniforms. Even the ones where you''re ying basketball with the boys of your ss. He didn''t ask anyone to follow you, he did it himself and took those photos himself as well. So, he might have not been present in your life, but he actually was always there. He watched you grow up from a distance."

    Xiang Wai chewed the inside of her cheek and sniffled. Her eyes were a bit sour now.

    "I think I should make it clear," went on Raelle. "I don''t need siblings. I never did. The only reason you''re here is that my Opa needed his grandchildren. And his wishes are more important to me than anything else in this world. Opa is getting old and isn''t in good health anymore. Your presence makes him happy and that''s the reason you are here. I''d appreciate it if you can keep him happy. We don''t know how long he has."

    Xiang Wai''s heart jumped and she asked, "What''s wrong with the grandfather? Is he sick?"

    "As I said, he is old now," said Raelle. "Sickness follows old age. It can''t be helped."

    "Oh, what are the sisters talking about?"

    Raelle turned to look at Mu Chenyan and replied, "Nothing special."

    Mu Chenyan gave Raelle a look before she ced a table on the bed and ced the tray of hot porridge on the table before Xiang Wai. cing her hand on Xiang Wai''s forehead, she checked her temperature before asking, "Wai, how are you? Are you feeling any better?"

    "Sticky!" replied Xiang Wai.

    Mu Chenyan chuckled, "It''s because you sweated so much. That''s good. Bear with it for now. You can take a shower when you get better."

    "Oh."

    "Come eat something before taking another dose of the medicine," said Mu Chenyan in a coaxing voice. She really appeared like she was talking to a little kid and it made Raelle look at her. You see, these tactics were useless on Raelle but they were very effective on Xiang Wai so craved this pampering.

    Seeing how Xiang Wai didn''t move her hands, Mu Chenyan looked at her.

    "Eat."

    Xiang Wai opened her mouth without saying a word.

    Mu Chenyan chuckled, "You want me to feed you?"

    Xiang Wai nodded her head and opened her mouth again waiting to be spoon-fed at this age.

    Raelle folded her arms in front of her chest and looked at this scene in silence. Meanwhile, Mu Chenyan happily picked up the spoon, she blew on the porridge before bringing it to Xiang Wai''s mouth.

    "Major, I think the fever has gotten to your head," said Raelle.

    "Elle, don''t say that."

    Raelle looked at the back of Mu Chenyan''s head and said, "To be honest, I think Major has some talent to be able to catch a cold in the middle of the summer. Very talented."

    "Raelle, you should be nice to sick people!" said Xiang Wai.

    "If you have the energy to speak, I think you''ll survive," said Raelle.

    *Knock-Knock!*

    Raelle turned towards the door and looked at the maid who opened the door, "Missy, Old Master is calling you downstairs."

    "I''ming," said Raelle.

    "Elle, I heard Elder Xiang has a guest. Who is it?" asked Mu Chenyan while feeding Xiang Wai.

    Raelle didn''t answer immediately. Instead, she told her, "Why don''t you go and check it out yourself? I think it''ll be a good surprise for you."

    Saying that Raelle left.

    "Huh? Why didn''t she tell me who is it?"

    "Aunt..."

    "Hm?"

    "I just realized that Raelle really loves grandfather."

    Mu Chenyanughed at that, "Everybody knows that. She isn''t good at expressing feelings in words but even a blind can see that she loves Elder Xiang. She might be a leader for the world but in front of Elder Xiang, she is just a granddaughter. Although not so lovely or cute, she is still trying her best."

 Chapter 955: [Bonus chapter] Pills

    Chapter 955: [Bonus chapter] PillsRaelle went to see Grandfather Xiang and met Xia Zhao again who was sitting with Grandfather Xiang. She greeted him just as politely as she did the first time they met.

    "I heard you already met, Zhao," said Grandfather Xiang.

    "We met at the temple the other day," answered Raelle.

    Grandfather Xiang nodded his head while smiling. Raelle looked at his smiling face once more. It was not every day you''d see Grandfather Xiang smiling this amicably around people. But from this, it showed that Xia Zhao had a very high position in Grandfather Xiang''s heart.

    "He came to see you here," told Grandfather Xiang.

    Raelle looked at Xia Zhao and asked, "Me? I wonder why is that so. How can I help Mr. Xia Zhao?"

    Xia Zhao pulled out a porcin bottle and ced it on the table saying, "Someone asked me to deliver it to you."

    Raelle picked up the bottle and looked at it carefully. Underneath the bottle was a symbol that gave her the idea of who sent it, "It''s from the gentleman with green eyes."

    "You can tell?" asked Xia Zhao in surprise as he raised his brow at her.

    She showed him the symbol on the bottle saying, "He used a handkerchief which had the same symbol embroidered at the right corner. Not only that, the same symbol was engraved on his belt as well. So, I believe I''m not mistaken."

    "You''re very conservative,"mented Xia Zhao. "So, the rumors about you are not exaggerated. Raelle Xiang can really see what others can''t. It''s good to know that." His smile deepened making him look even more handsome than he already was. "This is indeed from Young Master Ru."

    Raelle opened the cap of the small bottle and a refreshing medicinal scent spread in the air. "He sent me medicine?"

    "Not a very good choice of gifts but this is what you need the most right now," replied Xia Zhao.

    "Yenay, you met the Xia family''s young master Ru?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    Raelle nodded her head, "Yes. He was a very interesting person to be around."

    "He is worse than you when ites to feelings, of course, you''d find him interesting,"mented Grandfather Xiang.

    "What do you mean, Opa?" asked Raelle.

    "Nothing, forget it." Grandfather Xiang sighed to himself softly and turned to Xia Zhao. "Why don''t you tell her what this medicine is for?"

    Xia Zhao looked at Raelle and told her, "Young Master Ru took your pulse and..."

    "Is something wrong with me?"

    "Nothing that serious," said Xia Zhao. "It''s just that from your pulse, he knew that you had a miscarriage recently." Raelle listened with interest because she didn''t think just a pulse could tell that much. "There are only three pills in the bottle you have to take one pill for three days. It''s just to condition your body and help you recover faster." He took a pause and added, "You can send it to ab to get it checked before taking the pills."

    "There is no need to send the pills to theb," said Grandfather Xiang.

    "Uncle, even if you trust me, I think you should be careful. After all, it''s rted to your precious granddaughter''s health."

    "You don''t need to tell me that," was Grandfather Xiang''s response. "It''s not my trust in you but also in your Young Master Ru. With the Xia family and Xiang family''s history, I don''t have to doubt." He looked at Raelle, "You can trust me and take these pills. I assure you, nothing will go wrong."

    Raelle was silent throughout this. She observed her grandfather for a while and realized that he was serious. He really trusted either the Young Master Ru or the family he came from. Either way, it was something new to her. She had always seen how protective and over-cautious her grandfather had been when ites to matters rted to her. From a young age, he made sure to check everything carefully that she had to eat or use.

    But now, he was willing to trust just like that.

    "Then I''ll take the pills," she replied. "Thank you, Mr. Xia Zhao. And you can convey my gratitude to Mr. Ru as well."

    "I sure will," replied Xia Zhao.

    "You can just call him uncle. Or just call him by his name like you do with Chenyan. Don''t be so formal around him," said Grandfather Xiang.

    "Uncle is right. You don''t have to be so formal with me," agreed Xia Zhao.

    Raelle nodded her head as she ced the medicine bottle aside, she took out something from her pocket and showed it to Grandfather Xiang, "Opa, Mr. Ru gave this as a first meeting gift. He said he is an elder, so he should give me a first meeting gift."

    Grandfather Xiang looked at the white jade she held and said, "Don''t listen to that old soul. He is in the same generation as you. Just a few years older but acts like an old man. Tsk. He used to act that way when he was a kid, I can imagine how worse his old man act could be now."

    Xia Zhao pursed his lips to suppress hisughter. Mentally, he gave Grandfather Xiang a thumbs up for surmising Ru like that. Indeed, that idiot was always like an old sage not even caring that he was just in his early thirties. Was it okay to act like he was one step away from immortality or something?

    "You should keep the jade though," said Grandfather Xiang. "He gave it as a gift, there is no harm in keeping it. It''s good for you." After all, white jade was good for health.

    "It''s not a simple jade though," Raelle pointed it out.

    "My darling granddaughter, it''s a very simple jade to the one who gave it to you. Don''t think so much and keep it always close to your body. In fact, the next time you meet Ru, ask that fake old sage to carve this jade into your favorite shape for you. Then you can use it as a pendant."

    "I like that idea," said Xia Zhao.

    Raelle looked at the two and silently agreed. She''ll have to see if she meets Mr. Ru again or not.

 Chapter 956: Stubbornness, Obsession, & Greed

    Chapter 956: Stubbornness, Obsession, & Greed"Will he be able to carve it though?" asked Raelle. "I mean, he is a researcher. Asking him to carve this jade would be putting him in a difficult situation."

    Xia Zhaoughed out at that, "Why don''t you try it then? I assure you, the result might surprise you."

    Raelle nodded her head and put the jade back into her pocket. Since her grandfather told her to keep it close to her body, she''d definitely do that for him. Whether it was really good for her health or not, didn''t really concern her. As long as her grandfather said it was, no scientific reason could convince her otherwise.

    "How to take these pills?" Raelle asked another question. "Is there anything to keep note of or avoid?"

    Xia Zhao shook his head, "There is nothing in particr that you have to avoid."

    "Say thank you to Young Master Ru," said Grandfather Xiang.

    "Uncle, you''re being too formal now. Firstly, it was Ru who took a liking to your granddaughter. Second, with the ties between the Xia n and Xiang n, there is no need to say such words."

    Grandfather Xiang smiled and nodded his head.

    Raelle held the medicine bottle and thought about something before asking, "Uncle Zhao, can you tell me what is the identity of Young Master Ru?"

    Xia Zhao was momentarily lost when Raelle addressed him like that. Afterposing himself, he spoke up, "There are a lot of identities. But everyone knows him as Young Master Ru. You can ask your grandfather, from a young age, everyone called him Ru."

    "What are you doing here?"

    Xia Zhao stood up and looked at Mu Chenyan who asked that question with an ugly expression. She looked at Grandfather Xiang and then at Raelle before her eyes settled on Xia Zhao once again. She seemed to be ready to pounce on him and rip his limbs.

    "Hello to you too, Yan Zi," said Xia Zhao.

    Raelle looked at the two of them. It was her first time hearing someone call Mu Chenyan, Yan Zi. It definitely sounded very endearing and the way he spoke actually showed that he had a lot of patience for the person in question. Because not even a slight crease could be found on his face. And even in his eyes, you won''t find any displeasure regarding the rude question Mu Chenyan asked.

    "Chenyan, is that a way to talk to a guest?" came Grandfather Xiang''s voice.

    "The question is why do we have him at home as our guest today?" grumbled Mu Chenyan. "Didn''t I tell you not to show up in front of Elder Xiang?"

    "Chen! Yan!"

    Mu Chenyan pressed her lips together and looked at Grandfather Xiang, "What? What have I done? He just showed up and you''re standing up for him again. Even after all these years, you''re still protecting him."

    "It''s because you''re being unreasonable," said Grandfather Xiang. "And it''s not like I have lost contact with Xiao Zhao in all these years. He always came to see me when I was in the country or when he went to Country G."

    "Why don''t I know about that?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "Oh, I think that''s because of me," Raelle raised her hand to get between their conversation. "My dearest Yanyan, you forget the world around you when you''re focused on me. So, it''s obvious you didn''t notice what Opa had been doing or whom he was meeting."

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her nose and furrowed her brows. She had to agree that she did seem to forget everything when she was focused on Raelle. But she thought she knew everything happening in Grandfather Xiang''s life as well. It''s not like he had much going on in his life so she might have overlooked a lot of things.

    "But you told me you guys hadn''t met in years," said Mu Chenyan.

    Both Grandfather Xiang and Xia Zhao avoided that question and looked away from her. Mu Chenyan snorted at their reaction and sighed to herself. There was no point in asking. They both were keeping secrets from her. Tsk.

    Raelle was about to leave when Mu Chenyan stopped her and whispered to her, "Elle, my baby, how about you help your Yanyan?"

    "What can I do for you?" asked Raelle.

    "Help me negotiate the price of a painting he has," said Mu Chenyan.

    Raelle looked at her and then turned to face Xia Zhao, "Uncle Zhao, are you willing to sell ''The Fiery Autumn'' painting?"

    Xia Zhao nced at Mu Chenyan before he shook his head at Raelle, "It''s not for sale."

    Raelle nodded her head and turned to Mu Chenyan, "He is not selling."

    Mu Chenyan was dumbfounded by this turn of events. "Elle, I asked you to negotiate a price!"

    "I can''t negotiate a price when the painting is not even for sale. Do you want me to force someone to sell their personal belongings against their will? That''s not the way I work. You know already. If he was selling, I''d definitely buy it for you at any cost. But the fact is, he is not even considering selling it."

    "Whose side are you on?"

    "I don''t take sides," reminded Raelle making Xia Zhao''s lips curl up when he heard that. From this small exchange, he understood why Young Master Ru took an instant liking to Raelle and even had been exceptionally patient around her.

    Mu Chenyan groaned, "I really asked the wrong person. Can''t you forget your reasonings for a moment and focus on the fact that your Yanyan wishes to have that painting?"

    "Stubbornness is another form of obsession. Obsession is another form of greed. And greed is a curse. The tighter your hold on the sand, the faster it''ll slip through your fingers. Don''t aim for what doesn''t belong to you. When it''s time to let it go. Make your life easy and let it go."

    Mu Chenyan was left staring at Raelle''s face not knowing what to say to her in this situation. But she had to ept that Raelle was right. Her stubbornness to obtain that painting had turned into obsession and was bordering on the line of greed now. She needed to stop before it was toote.

 Chapter 957: Bite

    Chapter 957: BiteRaelle left the room after saying all that to Mu Chenyan. Xia Zhao looked at Grandfather Xiang and said, "Uncle has raised a beautiful granddaughter. She has a beautiful heart."

    Grandfather Xiang sighed, "I can''t take the credit for that. I think our Chenyan did more than anyone else. She shaped Raelle into who she is today."

    Mu Chenyan woke up from her daze and said, "Are you sure I did that? Sometimes, even I''m in doubt if I have really raised her. After all, she is nothing like me." She took a deep breath and said, "Oh, I forgot. I came to call you for lunch." She hesitated before turning to Xia Zhao, "Since you''re here, you can also join us for lunch."

    "I should leave now," said Xia Zhao.

    Mu Chenyan rolled her eyes at him, "I didn''t add anything to the food this time!"

    Xia Zhao looked at her, "So you do ept that back then it was you who added something to my meal?"

    Mu Chenyan opened her mouth and coughed as she looked away saying, "I don''t know what you''re talking about." She didn''t even confess back then, how could she let it slip now after all these years? No, it was his fault for even remembering something that happened so long ago. And he was still holding a grudge over that? How petty! Didn''t he just have to make a few extra trips to the bathroom that day, what was withholding that grudge until now?

    Grandfather Xiang looked at their interaction and as always turned a blind eye to it all. He could only shake his head at these two. Even after all these years, their way of interaction didn''t change. Who would believe that they weren''t the same teenagers from back then?

    "Zhao, stay for lunch," said Grandfather Xiang. "Our Chenyan is quite a master chef now."

    Mu Chenyan looked proud, "Of course! It''s the result of all those burns and cuts that paid off and turned me into a master chef after shedding all that sweat and blood."

    "Yes, Uncle. Since you''re saying, I''ll stay for lunch," agreed Xia Zhao without even looking at Mu Chenyan.

    Grandfather Xiang happily left the room leaving Mu Chenyan ring at Xia Zhao. "So, when I asked to stay, you don''t want to. But when he asked, you want to stay for lunch? Aren''t you being too obvious about your dislike towards me?"

    "Do you have some misunderstanding, Yan Zi?" asked Xia Zhao. "I have never disliked you. You know that too."

    "Well, I do dislike you though."

    "I don''t believe you," he said as he tried to pass from her side.

    Mu Chenyan held his arm and pulled him back, "You! What are you doing here?"

    "I told you I''lle to visit Uncle."

    "And why didn''t you tell me that you had been in contact with him for all these years?"

    "That had nothing to do with you," replied Xia Zhao. "You are you. Uncle Tian is Uncle Tian. I don''t think I have to mention everything to you."

    "Of course! Who am I? Why would you share everything with me?"

    "Am I hearing it wrong or do you sound very bitter right now?"

    "Bitter? I want to bite off your flesh right now!"

    Xia Zhao lifted his arm and unsped his cuffs and pulled up his sleeve. He offered his arm to her saying, "Bite."

    "What?"

    "I said, bite. You can bite how hard you want. No matter how you want to bite off my flesh. I won''tin. Do it."

    "You think I won''t dare to?" she asked.

    Xia Zhao shook his head, "No. Knowing you, Yan Zi, I''m certain you''ll bite. So, do it and let off some steam. I can see that since west met, you must have been having trouble even sleeping because of all this rage inside you. So, I''m allowing you to let it all out now."

    Mu Chenyan stared at his face trying to see if he was speaking the truth or just saying it. After a whole minute, she really held his arm and brought it to her mouth. She ground her teeth as if she was sharpening them like a knife right now. She opened her mouth to bite and really bit him hard.

    Xia Zhao didn''t even flinch. Her teeth were slowly boring into his skin but he didn''t even wince in pain. Instead, his eyes sparkled with a smile but he controlled the curve of his lips. He really raised his lips into a smile and she saw it, it''ll only get worse so it was better to stay expressionless right now.

    Mu Chenyan only let go when she tasted the rusty blood in her mouth. Only then did she pull out his arm and looked at the blood she actually drew out with her bite. His pale skin in contrast with that startling red color was quite a contrast. She looked up at Xia Zhao who looked as usual as he asked, "Are you feeling better?"

    She was actually quite satisfied with her work when she saw the blood but seeing his face as calm as ever, really was like a bucket of cold water poured over her head. It was exactly as it always had been. No matter what she did, it had no effect on him. He was still as unruffled as ever.

    As always, she was the one looking like a clown for being this unreasonable.

    "It hurts," he said when he noticed how the emotions in her eyes were swirling wildly right now. "You''ll have to clean this up now as well."

    Mu Chenyan looked back at the blood on his arm and felt a little guilty. Just a teeny tiny bit of guilt. That was the only amount she could spare for him. She suddenly wanted to smack her head. Why did she always lose her mind when he was around? Why was it so difficult to stay rational with him around her?

    He really made her seem like a fool!

 Chapter 958: Just A Mystery

    Chapter 958: Just A MysteryHow could that teeny tiny guilt in her eyes escape Xia Zhao''s eyes when he was even familiar with all her expressions? It had to be said that the person he studied the most in his life was the woman standing in front of him. So, even though they hadn''t met in years, he could still understand her every single frown.

    Mu Chenyan again looked at her teeth marks and blood on his forearm and sighed, "I''ll bring the medicine box." When she came back, she pushed him to sit down and started cleaning the wound that she inflicted. She took a cotton swab and cleaned his wound with the antiseptic.

    Xia Zhao was focused on her movements as if trying to figure something out. As if just looking at her face, he''d be able to find the answers he was looking for. Clearly, he was wrong. He didn''t find the answers but found himself in a trance.

    "Ouch!"

    Mu Chenyan''s hand paused and she looked up at him with an ugly look on her face.

    "What? It hurts," he said.

    Mu Chenyan snorted, "Yeah, right." When she bit him, it didn''t hurt and now it was hurting because of the antiseptic. What a joke! Her intelligence might drop around him but that didn''t mean she couldn''t tell he was lying right now.

    She dabbed the cotton swab on his arm again and he winced, "Ssss... Painful."

    Mu Chenyan paused again and bit the inside of her lips to stop herself fromughing right now. But she couldn''t suppress her smile right now because of his antics.

    "How callous! Here I''m in pain and you''re smiling? Does my misery excites you that much?"

    Mu Chenyan looked into his eyes and nodded, "Yes! I love to see you in pain. Happy to know that?"

    He gave her a look of disbelief, "Yan Zi, you are cruel!"

    "Is it your first day knowing how cruel I am?" she asked while shaking her head. She wrapped his wound with a bandage and said, "If you don''t want to suffer, don''t look for trouble with me again."

    "That is not possible,"mented Xia Zhao. "My whole life will be cloudy if you''re not there to make trouble."

    "Weren''t you in peace when I wasn''t around to make trouble?" she inquired. "If I remember correctly, you love cloudy days."

    "I also thought I did love cloudy days," he told her. His hand lifted up to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear as he said softly, "But I think I was wrong."

    Mu Chenyan stilled when his fingers brushed against her ear so softly. She didn''t move for a whole minute. She breathed through her mouth and punched his arm saying, "Behave yourself!"

    Xia Zhao who was punched out of nowhere couldn''t chuckle at her reaction.

    "What are you doing here?" she asked.

    "I told you, I came to see Uncle Tian," he replied.

    Mu Chenyan squinted her eyes at him, "So, you''re here to see him?"

    "Why? Are you upset that I''m not here to see you?" he asked.

    Mu Chenyan lifted her foot and kicked his calf without any restraint, "Who said that? Do I look like I want to see you? Do you think you''re that important?"

    Xia Zhao staggered a little because of this unexpected kick on his calf. It was painful. Very painful. But he didn''t say anything. He didn''t even wince yet again. He just sighed at how defensive she got.

    "Isn''t that the problem?" hemented. "The fact that I''m not that important."

    "Does it hurt?" she asked.

    "It doesn''t," he replied.

    "Sorry," she grumbled.

    "It''s okay," he said. "I''m used to it. My stance is still the same. You can just hit me when I get on your nerve. Don''t always keep it inside yourself."

    "You do realize that you''re the reason why I am who I am today, right?"

    "Me? What did I do?" he asked in confusion.

    "You''re the reason I became sopetitive in life, you''re also the reason I don''t hold back. Whenever I hit you, you just let it go. You always give in when I want you to but you also never give up when I don''t want you to. It''s the..."

    "It''s the first time, I''m not giving when you want me to," hepleted her words for her. "You should listen to your niece. Stop this obsession before it turns into greed."

    He was about to leave when she held his arm once more to stop him, "What if I want to be greedy?"

    Xia Zhao looked at her eyes and was a bit startled by what he noticed. He looked away and avoided that topic saying, "Let''s go. I''m hungry. I have to see how good of a master chef you have be now."

    Mu Chenyan pulled him back and made him bump into her as she stared right into his eyes. They stood very close to each other right now. So close that Xia Zhao''s body inexplicably went taut. He was avoiding his eyes when she pinched his chin and made him stare at her, "What? Want to run?"

    "Where do you think I can run?" he asked. "I was always standing right here. It''s you who always chose to run."

    Mu Chenyan felt like she heard a bit of grievance in his voice when he said that. She cleared her throat and said, "Then what are you standing here for? Since I ran, you shouldn''t be foolishly standing here!"

    "You asked me to stand here," he answered. "You told me if I stood there, you''de back."

    Mu Chenyan''s hands clenched and she sneered. She poked his forehead saying, "You are the real fool between the two of us. And here I thought, nothing could cause a storm in your peaceful world."

    "From the moment you walked into my life, I already knew there won''t be any peace in my life."

    If anyone heard their conversation, it''d be very difficult to understand what they were really talking about. They really had their own way to talk in puzzles which only they understood. And to the listener, it was just a mystery.

 Chapter 959: [Bonus chapter] Perfect Match

    Chapter 959: [Bonus chapter] Perfect Match

    When Xia Zhao and Mu ChenYan came to the dining table, Grandfather Xiang''s eyes fell on Xia Zhao''s arm. He frowned and said, "Chenyan! What did you do now?"

    Mu Chenyan didn''t reply immediately because of her guilty conscious while Xia Zhao answered for her, "Uncle, I just bumped into something." Grandfather Xiang scoffed, "Zhao, you can shut up. Stop protecting her." Xia Zhao turned silent.

    Shui Xian looked at Xia Zhao and then at Mu Chenyan. He already heard about Xia Zhao from Raelle. Of course, he knew that while Mu Chenyan called Xia Zhao her nemesis, in reality, he was the closest person to her. Currently, he was actually very interested in these two people.

    He had never seen Mu Chenyan looking so worked up. Although it looked like she was very angry, Shui Xian could see that anger was just on the surface. Behind that seemed to beints. She looked like she had a lot to say to the person beside him but it seemed even she didn''t know what she wanted to exactly say.

    "Hubby, what are you looking at?" asked Raelle. "What''s with that smile?" Shui Xian leaned toward her and said, "Don''t you think something is wrong between those two?" Raelle looked where he was pointing and asked, "And what do you think is wrong?"

    "The woman is unreasonable and temperamental, the man is too tolerant and patient with her. I have to say, this is a very interestingbination,"mented Shui Xian with a knowing smile. He actually wanted tough out loud right now. He finally realized that something could indeed faze Mu Chenyan. And it was actually a man named, Xia Zhao.

    The reason was simple, she couldn''t understand him.

    Mu Chenyan, the tyrant who was used to ruling couldn''t understand a man. Tsk. Tsk.

    They both seemed to like theplete opposite of each other and yet, the synergy was real. He could feel it. He might not be as smart as his wife, but he couldn''t be wrong when it came to feelings. And that is why he could see that actually both Xia Zhao and Mu Chenyan had special feelings for each other. It was just that both were oblivious. Even at this age, they both didn''t even know what name to give to their feelings to each other.

    Inparison, even his wife was better than them. Ouch! It hurt his eyes to even look at these dense people. And here he was wondering where did Xiang Wai''s dense genese from? Clearly, he found the source right here! "Son-inw, why aren''t you eating?"

    Shui Xian''s train of thoughts got off the rail once he heard someone calling him and looked up at Mu Chenyan.

    "Is something on my face, son-inw? Why do you keep looking at me?" Shui Xian cleared his throat and said, "How can I not look when our Yanyan is such a beautifuldy? My mind was just trapped in your beauty."

    Xia Zhao''s chopsticks paused and he nced at Shui Xian before moving his eyes away. His movement didn''t escape Shui Xian''s eyes. But he wasn''t the only one. Even Raelle noticed that gaze on her husband and then looked at Shui Xian. She obviously didn''t understand what game her husband was ying but she didn''t say anything regarding this as well.

    As long as he was happy, who cared what he was up to? "Do you think your sweet words are gonna get you somewhere?" asked Mu Chenyan. Shui Xian shrugged, "It definitely got me the first ce in your list of favorite sons-inw." Mu Chenyan chuckled, "Are you overconfident?" "No," replied Shui Xian. "I just know you love me the most."

    Mu Chenyan didn''t deny his words. Currently, there were three sons-inw. Zhai Yanjun who was secretly dating her Wai, Cui Xukun whom Cloe just brought back home, and then there was the OG Shui Xian whom Mu Chenyan hand-picked for her personal favorite, Raelle!

    It wasn''t even a surprise that Shui Xian was her favorite. She wouldn''t argue with that. After all, she really liked Shui Xian even if she said otherwise. It wasn''t just because she picked him by herself but also because she had seen how much change he brought in Raelle and how much effort he put into taking care of Raelle.

    Even with Raelle''s miscarriage, she didn''t me Shui Xian even for a minute. She couldn''t bring herself to do so. She wasn''t blind. She knew he had done his best to keep her safe.

    Mu Chenyan put a piece of meat into his bowl saying, "Here. Since you''re my favorite son-inw, I should give you some special treatment as well." Shui Xian happily picked up the piece of meat and bit it. "You''re not a bad cook, son-inw,"mented Mu Chenyan. "This soup you made is delicious." "Wow! Is it the first time I''m being praised by Yanyan? I feel like something is gonna go wrong. I''m so not used to you praising me." "Shut up! And you should get used to it," said Mu Chenyan. "After all, from now on, you''ll have to help me straighten up the other two sons-inw of the family."

    Shui Xian burst outughing and silently lit a candle for his ex-best friend Cui Xukun and his current best friend Zhai Yanjun in his heart. Of course, he was gloating inside. It seemed the days would be fun from now on.

    "Both of you," came Grandfather Xiang''s voice. "Is this the time to actually make ns to bully people? Eat silently. And don''t forget we have a guest."

    "I think the guest doesn''t mind," said Shui Xian as he nced at Xia Zhao who had a smile on his face as he looked at Mu Chenyan. "What do you think Yanyan?"

    "He dares to mind?" Mu Chenyan red at Xia Zhao. "Besides, who said he is a guest? Ignore him." "Is that something you should be saying?" asked Grandfather Xiang. "Xian, stop taking her side." "Yes, Opa!"

 Chapter 960: Cost You A Dime

    Chapter 960: Cost You A DimeIn all this bickering, only one person was unperturbed and Xia Zhao''s eyes were set on that one person; Raelle. As always, whatever was happening around her didn''t concern her. From the moment she picked up her chopsticks, nothing else existed except for the food in front of her. She silently enjoyed her meal and only paid attention to the world around her when she put her chopsticks down.

    Finding Xia Zhao looking at her, Raelle blinked at him before she put on her practiced smile. Xia Zhao lowered his head and chuckled softly to himself.

    "Baby, eat some more," said Shui Xian when he noticed how much Raelle ate. Raelle shook her head in response. "Just try to eat a little more, eh? You''ve been eating less and less. It''s not good for health. Just take a few more bites."

    "No," was Raelle''s response.

    Shui Xian didn''t try to coax again. Since she said no, it meant no. There was no changing her mind now. "Then drink more soup? I made this for you."

    Raelle shook her head, "I already drank enough."

    Mu Chenyan frowned when she heard their conversation and asked, "Elle, you really didn''t eat much. Is something not to your liking? Why don''t you tell me? I''ll make whatever you want to eat for you."

    Raelle looked at Mu Chenyan and said, "Focus on eating. Don''t talk while eating."

    Mu Chenyan pouted but still followed her words and concentrated on eating.

    "You too," this one was directed at Shui Xian whose face showed how distressed he was over the fact that his wife''s appetite was even worse than before. In the hospital, he thought the atmosphere of the hospital was the reason why she didn''t feel like eating but now, the same was happening at home.

    With worry palpable in his eyes, Shui Xian still tried to focus on eating. It''s just that since she didn''t eat much, he suddenly lost his appetite as well. Nothing tasted good anymore.

    "Zhao, how was the lunch? Isn''t our Chenyan a very good cook?"

    Xia Zhao looked at Grandfather Xiang and said, "She is good at whatever she does."

    Mu Chenyan snorted at his response while Grandfather Xiang chuckled.

    "Uncle Zhao, what do you do?" asked Raelle as she sat down with them. "Is painting your profession?"

    "No," replied Xia Zhao. "It''s just a hobby."

    "You''re quite well-known in the field though," said Raelle. "So, what is your profession?"

    "I don''t likeplexities in life so you can say I don''t have a fixed profession," said Xia Zhao. "I just did some investments that are enough for me to live a simple life."

    "Interesting, my Yanyan does the same," said Raelle.

    "How is it the same?" asked Mu Chenyan. "He is clearlyzy."

    "Yanyan."

    "Yes, my darling Elle?"

    "You have a lot to say today."

    Shui Xian smiled when he heard that and saw Mu Chenyan tsk at that before she made an excuse and left from there.

    "Why do I feel like I''m losing too much? It is because he is around? Why is it that I have to lose whenever he is involved? It''s uneptable!"

    Seeing her muttering to herself, Yue Yue had an amused look on her face. Actually, Shui Xian wasn''t the only person who noticed the peculiarity of the rtionship between Mu Chenyan and Xia Zhao even Yue Yue noticed it. Even if she wasn''t the smartest around here, she was someone who loved the same person for years without saying a word. She understood the unsaid feelings better than anyone.

    How could she not see that there was a thin paper wall between Mu Chenyan and Xia Zhao? But they both weren''t willing to tear that paper wall and change whatever was between them. If the wall was still as it was years ago, the conclusion was, they both were just deceiving themselves and each other by not epting their feelings.

    Yue Yue actually wanted tough. It was the first time seeing Mu Chenyan running from something. How could she not find it interesting?

    She tapped on Mu Chenyan''s shoulder to get her attention before saying, ''He is handsome.''

    Mu Chenyan frowned, "Why are youplimenting him out of nowhere? So what if he is handsome?"

    Yue Yue shrugged her shoulders, ''I just said what came to my mind. He is handsome. Is he single?''

    "Why?" asked Mu Chenyan. "You want to hit on him?"

    ''My heart is not avable,'' responded Yue Yue. ''But I can look for a partner for him.''

    Mu Chenyan touched her forehead and asked seriously, "Are you sick? Did you get infected by little Fai or something? What''s with the interest in setting people up? What does it have to do with you? Even if he is single, it''s his business! Let him stay single!"

    ''As a friend, you should care.''

    "Who is his friend? Me? Huh! He is my enemy! My biggest enemy!"

    Yue Yue felt like smacking her head right now. How could Mu Chenyan be so worked up because of an enemy? As if that could deter her or influence her emotions. What a joke!

    ''Haven''t you heard? Keep your friends close and enemies closer!''

    Mu Chenyan furrowed her brows at that.

    ''I have an idea that can stop your obsession.''

    "What?

    ''You''ll get the painting you want and it won''t cost you a dime!''

    Mu Chenyan straightened up and asked, "What''s the n? Tell me?"

    ''Marry him,'' Yue Yue grinned. ''Whatever is his will be yours. Free of cost! You don''t even have to use so much mental power.''

    ck lines appeared between her brows and Mu Chenyan snorted, "Don''t joke around with me."

    ''I''m not joking.''

    "Whatever," Mu Chenyan waved her hand carelessly. "Don''t mention it again. If I wanted to marry him, I''d have done it when..." She stopped and didn''t continue after this. Taking a deep breath, she added, "Anyway, it''s not happening. Definitely not happening."

    Yue Yue was a bit taken aback by her reaction. Why did she hear some disappointment in her voice? Was she overthinking or that disappointment was really there? It seemed the rtionship between Xia Zhao and Mu Chenyan wasn''t as simple as it appeared to be.

 Chapter 961: [Bonus chapter] Fragile

    Chapter 961: [Bonus chapter] Fragile

    "Is military base sox these days?"

    Zhai Yanjun scratched his head when he heard that question from Mu Chenyan. Who knew he''d run into her first thing aftering here? It was truly his bad luck "How are you even allowed to leave the base whenever you want?" Zhai Yanjun cleared his throat and replied honestly, "It''s because my current task is not at the military base. I''m stationed at the training grounds in the suburbs." Mu Chenyan frowned, "College isn''t starting until September. Why are you already stationed at the training ground? Do you already have the task to oversee the military training of college students?" "I''ll be in charge of that but currently, we are training with a film crew." Mu Chenyan raised her brow and sighed, "Wow! Anything to bring people close to the army, eh?" "Something like that," said Zhai Yanjun. "Forget that, what the hell are you doing here?" she asked.

    "I... I came..." Zhai Yanjun didn''t know what to say. He was here to see Xiang Wai because he learned she was sick. And he knew that Mu Chenyan also knew. But the fact was that they were all just not speaking this fact out loud. As if by keeping quiet, things will be different. "I came to see my Ayi!"

    Mu Chenyan rolled her eyes at that and saw how Yue Yue also went along with her favorite nephew saying, ''I called him here.'' Well, she wasn''t lying exactly. She was the one who told him that Xiang Wai was sick. So, it couldn''t be considered a lie that she called him.

    Mu Chenyan shook her head at this pair of aunt and nephew before waving them off, "Do whatever you want to then. I''m oft"

    ''Come with me,'' Yue Yue gestured for Zhai Yanjun to follow him. After his intense learning, at least, he could understand this much. So, he nodded and followed her silently.

    "Ayi, I''m sorry for using you as an excuse."

    Yue Yue chuckled silently. She caressed his hair before telling him, ''It''s okay. I don''t mind being your shield. Don''t let it bother you.''

    Zhai Yanjun smiled brightly at her and nodded his head. As she took him to Xiang Wai''s room, they found Xiang Weimin sitting beside Xiang Wai. "Ge, why do you think Raelle keeps reminding us that she doesn''t need siblings?" They heard Xiang Wai''s hoarse and nasally voice.

    "Lie down, will you?" replied Xiang Weimin. "You and I both already know she isn''t in need of siblings. You should be happy with whatever space we have in her life right now. And we try being a little more shameless, we can squeeze a little more into her inner circle. Why are you so impatient? I already warned you, don''t let her words get to you."

    "Hm, you shouldn''t."

    Both Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai looked up and saw Zhai Yanjun who said that. "If you let Raelle''s words get to you, how will you live? You need to understand that whatever she says, she isn''t trying to hurt you or put you down. She is just being herself. Let her be." "See? Even Yanjun understands her better than you," said Xiang Weimin. Xiang Wai frowned at her boyfriend, "Why do you understand my sister so well?" Zhai Yanjun felt his back go cold and hurriedly said, "She is the wife of my best friend. I heard a lot about her from Shui Xian. You know, he likes to show off his wife at every chance he gets." "Oh," said Xiang Wai. And suddenly, she said, "Wait! What are you doing here?" "I''m here to see you," replied Zhai Yanjun. "Who told you?" asked Xiang Wai and looked at her brother.

    Xiang Weimin stood up and held up his hands saying, "I''m innocent. And I''m noting between you two as well. I''m leaving." Before leaving, he stopped and said to Zhai Yanjun, "Since you''re here, put her to sleep. She has taken medicine but isn''t willing to sleep."

    "I already slept too much," said Xiang Wai in response. "It''s not enough." Zhai Yanjun sat down on the bed and held Xiang Wai''s hand, "What''s wrong? You''re fine justst night? How did you get sick?" Xiang Wai didn''t dare look at him. What to say? That she fell sick because the secret was messing inside her? It had ruined her whole inner system. She still hadn''te to a conclusion. No, the answer was clear. She couldn''t tell him anything. She wasn''t the only one keeping this secret.

    "I''m fine," said Xiang Wai. "It''s a little bit of cold. Nothing serious. I''ll recover in no time. We even used to swim in the river in the middle of winter and still survived. How can this little cold do anything to me? It''s just that because of the warmth of the family, I''ve be a little more fragile than usual. It''s really nothing serious."

    Zhai Yanjun took in all her expressions but didn''t question why she was dodging his eyes. He just held her hand and smiled at her, "Then you should rest more. How can you recover if you won''t rest? It''s okay to be a little weak when you know there are people who care about you and will support you. There is nothing wrong with indulging in this warmth."

    Xiang Wai smiled at him and he continued to smile back. They both understood the meaning of those words very well. They both were people who craved the warmth of the family. How could he not understand why she became so fragile all of a sudden?

    "You..." she wanted to say something but stopped when she saw his face closer to her own. She closed her eyes and waited while he chuckled at her reaction before pressing his lips on her forehead. Xiang Wai opened her eyes at looked at him before saying, "You shouldn''t be so close. What if you caught a cold?"

    "I won''t," he said fixing the nket on her body. "I''m right here. Close your eyes and go to sleep. Don''t think about anything else. You need to recover first. Whatever is bothering you, we''ll solve it together when you get well."

    Xiang Wai just stared at him in silence before she squeezed his hand and closed her eyes just as he said..

 Chapter 962: More Or Less

    Chapter 962: More Or LessSeeing Raelle holding a ck color pill, Shui Xian paused, "Baby, what is that?"

    "A pill," answered Raelle.

    Shui Xian pursed his lips, "I can see that much. What I mean is, what you''re doing with it?"

    Raelle threw the pill into her mouth and bit into it saying, "Eating it."

    Shui Xian rubbed his forehead. His wife''s answers were always... interesting.

    "It''s Chinese medicine, isn''t it?" he asked and saw her nodding her head. "Isn''t it bitter? You''re supposed to take it with water."

    "No, I was told I can treat it like candy," said Raelle.

    "Who said it?"

    "The person who gave it."

    "Who gave it?"

    "About that..." Raelle had to tell him in detail about where this pill came from and as expected, his face changed color when he heard that she needed these pills to recover. It meant she wasn''t doing well.

    "Should we go back to the hospital for another examination?" asked Shui Xian.

    "Stop fretting," said Raelle. "The doctor said I''m doing absolutely fine. Why don''t you think that the person who sent these pills is a swindler or something?"

    "Opa won''t let you take anything he didn''t trust in," replied Shui Xian.

    "True," agreed Raelle. "Opa would definitely not take my health lightly. And that also means you can also trust that I''ll be fine."

    Shui Xian recalled how her appetite had been getting worse and worsetely. She wasn''t a big fan of food from the beginning but she always ate enough to maintain her health. Now, she ate like a bird which was so not like her. How could he not worry about that? No wonder he was feeling weird about it.

    Raelle ced her hand on his hand saying, "Stop thinking. Your mental health is more important. My situation isn''t as bad as you''re making it seem in your head."

    Shui Xian wasn''t really convinced by those words at all.

    "Are you really okay?" he asked.

    "I am," she replied. "By the way, did I mention that the person who made these pills was very handsome?"

    Shui Xian raised his brow at her, "Oh? How handsome? More than your husband?"

    "More or less," she said making him gasp. Raelle closed his mouth with her index finger saying, "Why are you so surprised? You know I like beautiful things. If that person is beautiful, I can''t lie to you and say otherwise. That won''t be fair."

    "At least it''d make me feel good," he said.

    "Hubby, I think I told you that you should start feeling the joy of bitter pills of truth that I like to distribute. Because the sweet candy of lie is not my cup of tea."

    Shui Xian chuckled when he heard that.

    "Wow! My wife always speaks straight to my heart." He sighed. "So, what was it that you liked so much about that person? It couldn''t just be his face."

    "He had green eyes like the deep forest filled with hidden dangers and mysteries but yet beckoning you inside. Evoking that hidden adventurer inside of you. Luring you in toe and explore that mystery of that forest."

    "Why does it feel like the person is dangerous?"

    "What do you have to say about Xia Zhao?" she asked.

    "Him?" He took a pause before saying, "He looks like a gentleman but there is definitely more to him. Anyway, we just met for the first time. I can''t figure him out that soon."

    "That person is supposedly Xia Zhao''s nephew," said Raelle. "Do you think he''d be simple?" She took a pause and added, "Opa said Xia n had a close bond with Xiang n. Currently, we don''t have that many people in our family so it seems like a simple family with a little bit of history. But I assure you, it isn''t like that. And since my own family isn''t that simple, I definitely won''t believe that the Xia n is simple."

    "True," said Shui Xian. "B¨¤ also said that families that have long histories are never easy." He took a pause and asked, "By the way, what''s wrong with Xiang Wai?"

    "She heard about Hyson''s father and now is struggling with this secret," said Raelle.

    Shui Xianughed out loud, "That''s the reason for her getting sick?"

    Raelle nodded.

    "Wow! She is really amusing. I''m really interested in the mystery of how genes worked in your family. It''s hard to believe that she is your and Xiang Weimin''s blood-rted sister. If it wasn''t that she had a few simrities, I''d have really doubted whether someone exchanged her at the hospital or something."

    Raelle looked at himughing and didn''t say anything.

    "Don''t you think it''s funny?"

    "Is it?" she asked.

    "It is."

    "So?"

    "So, you''re supposed tough at funny things."

    "Ha! Ha! Ha!"

    Shui Xian took a deep breath before he pinched her face saying, "Forget it. Don''t bother. Thisughter is worse than someone''s crying!"

    "You asked for it," she said.

    "How many pills do you have to take?" he asked all of a sudden.

    "Just three," she replied. "One for each day."

    He nodded his head, "Should we go for an examination after you''re done eating these pills?"

    "You''re still stuck on that?" she asked.

    Shui Xian groaned, "I can''t sleep if I''m not certain that you''re doing fine."

    "Let''s go to sleep," she said.

    "Huh?"

    "I''m suddenly sleepy," she pulled his hand and dragged him to the bed. "Just lie down. How am I supposed to sleep if you''re not there?"

    Shui Xian didn''t know what happened but he still silently followed her words andy down on his side. She snuggled up beside him and closed her eyes. As if she knew he was still looking at her face, she brought up her hand to cover his eyes saying, "Sleep."

    Shui Xian pulled off her hand and pressed his lips against her palm as he said softly, "Okay. Good Night!"

    "Good night!" came the response in a low voice.

    Shui Xian heard her even breathing and looked at the wall clock. It wasn''t yet her sleeping time but she really fell asleep as soon as sheid down. What a surprise!

 Chapter 963: So What?

    Chapter 963: So What?"Do you really wanna go?" asked Mu Chenyan in a whisper to Grandfather Xiang.

    "Why shouldn''t I go?" retorted Grandfather Xiang. "I''m invited to their home, I should definitely go."

    "You know why they called you over," said Mu Chenyan.

    "I do know," answered Grandfather Xiang. "And that''s all the more reason for me to go. It''s better for me to go than to have theme over and see Yue Yue. Don''t make it seem like I can''t handle this much."

    "Then don''t go easy on anyone," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Who is the elder here? I''m your elder or you''re my elder?"

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips, "I''m just saying, Elder Xiang."

    "You''re not the only one who can protect your best friend. Yue is a part of our family. And I, as the elder of this family, am still capable of protecting my family members. So what if we are smaller in number? Does that mean we are easy to bully? My ancestors didn''t sacrifice their lives so that just anyone could bully their descendants."

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head and gave him a thumbs up, "Keep this momentum! Don''t let them forget for a moment that youe from a military family."

    Grandfather Xiang gave her a look, "Why are you looking like I''m going to war? I''m just going to see Old Zhai. We''ve been friends for so long. What can possibly happen there?"

    "He won''t be the only one there," was Mu Chenyan''s answer. "That old couple of Yue family must also be there."

    Grandfather Xiang sighed and patted her arm saying, "You go and pick up something from my safe for the charity auction. I ordered the dresses, they must be here in a while. Get dressed, take Yue with you and go to the charity auction in my ce."

    Mu Chenyan groaned and earned a re from Grandfather Xiang.

    "Don''t even think about getting out of this," said Grandfather Xiang. "I''d have sent Raelle and Xian but I don''t want Raelle to move around so much. So, be a good girl and do as I said."

    "All my life I had not been a good girl and you''re asking me to be one now?"

    "It''s never toote to try," responded Grandfather Xiang. Thinking of something, he picked up the auction''s brochure and gave it to her, "Thest item might be of your interest."

    Mu Chenyan opened it and checked the list of things. She finally stopped on thest item and raised her brows. "Oh, is this for real?"

    "Authentic from the Qing Dynasty," said Grandfather Xiang. "Now, are you going?"

    "I''ll go," she said. "Let me drag Yue out of her hole."

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head at her and operated his wheelchair to leave. The chauffeur helped him inside the car and drove away.

    Early in the morning, Grandfather Xiang received a call from his friend asking him to meet. Grandfather Xiang knew what Grandfather Zhai wanted so he agreed without any hesitation. It was alreadyter than expected.

    When he arrived at the Zhai family''s house, Grandfather Zhai and Grandmother Zhai were waiting for him. They invited him inside and sat down with him. For a while, they didn''t bring up the real topic.

    "Wu Hao tea," said Grandfather Xiang as he took a sip of the tea with a look of appreciation. "Good tea. Very good tea. Old Zhai, how did you manage to bring this out of your collection? I thought you treasured this too much to share with this friend of yours."

    "Don''t joke around with me," said Grandpa Zhai. "It''s not as rare for you as you''re acting."

    "I''m not as big of a fan of teas as you are," said Grandfather Xiang. "But as I said, you usually don''t have the heart to serve this rare tea to just anyone."

    "Old Xiang, you''re not just anyone."

    Grandfather Xiang smiled but didn''tment on that.

    "How is Raelle doing now?" inquired Grandma Zhai. "I heard about her ident from Yanjun. Why didn''t you even inform us? Are you taking us as strangers now?"

    Grandfather Xiang waved his hand, "It''s nothing like that, sister-inw. You already know my Raelle doesn''t like crowds. And she particrly doesn''t like it when people keep asking her if she is okay. So, we didn''t disturb her when she was at the hospital. Even after she got discharged, she had been locked up in the house by her husband. It''s not that I didn''t want to tell you, I just didn''t want to worry you both."

    "Still, Brother Xiang should let us know," said Grandma Zhai. "I was so sad hearing what she had to go through. Poor girl."

    "She is doing better now," told Grandfather Xiang. "Don''t worry, sister-inw."

    Grandpa Zhai and Grandma Zhai shared a look and Grandfather Xiang pretended like he couldn''t see anything. He definitely won''t bring up the topic unless they spoke about it first. Anyway, he was very patient. There weren''t that many impatient people in their Xiang family anyway. How could he be impatient? He could way for them to speak without any psychological burden.

    "Old Xiang," Grandpa Zhai called out. "What''s the name of Chenyan''s best friend whom we met when west visited you?"

    Grandfather Xiang looked at his old friend and replied, "Her name is Yue Yue. Why are you asking about our Yue''er?"

    Grandpa Zhai gave him a look, "Old Xiang, you can y this game of ignorance with someone else. I for one am not willing to believe that you don''t know anything about why I''m asking about her." They still had some doubts when they first learned that Elder Yue and his wife met Yue Yue who was with a woman named Mu Chenyan. And it was particrly difficult to find anything rted to this woman named Mu Chenyan. But now, there was no reason to doubt anymore.

    Grandfather Xiang pursed his lips and nodded. He put the tea cup down and looked at his friend, "I do know. So what?"

 Chapter 964: [Bonus chapter] Wont End Well

    Chapter 964: [Bonus chapter] Won''t End Well"Yue Yue''s parents have been looking for her," said Grandpa Zhai. "You must know that too."

    "Is that so?" asked Grandfather Xiang. "But our Yue doesn''t have any parents."

    "Brother Xiang," Grandma Zhai spoke up. "Don''t say it like that."

    "Sister-inw, are you willing to go against your conscience and say she does have parents?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    Grandma Zhai really couldn''t say it. After all, she was familiar with what kind of parents Yue Yue had. Even if being old-fashioned, she wanted to say that the grace of birth can''t be forgotten, but she couldn''t say it considering what Yue Yue went through because of her own parents. At this point, she actually believed that it would have been better if they didn''t bother giving birth to Yue Yue. At least, she wouldn''t have to suffer for no reason.

    "How are we not her parents? I kept her inside my womb for months and brought her to this world!"

    Grandfather Xiang looked at the angry Madam Yue who rushed in and looked away after one nce. He had to say, that Yue didn''t look like her mother all that much.

    "You stay quiet!" said Elder Yue and he stared down at his wife and stepped up, "Old Xiang, I apologize for my wife''s behavior."

    Grandfather Xiang didn''t say anything in response.

    Grandpa Zhai sighed and said, "Old Yue, you sit down here and then talk."

    Elder Yue nced at Grandfather Xiang and didn''t know what to say. Actually, he didn''t get to learn much about Mu Chenyan apart from the fact that she was from the Mu n and wasn''t an easy person to reach. But what startled him was that, to the outside world, Mu Chenyan was more of a Xiang family member than the Mu n. And who didn''t know about the Xiang family''s legacy?

    From his understanding, his daughter was currently with the Xiang family as well.

    He had never met Grandfather Xiang before this day. After all, he was a politician all his life just like most of his family but Grandfather Xiang was a military man. It wasn''t easy for them to get along or get together to make an acquaintance. Besides Grandfather Xiang left the country years ago and only recently came back.

    Even if he was sitting in a wheelchair, Grandfather Xiang still had the strongest momentum among these old people.

    "I think Old Xiang already knows why we invited you here," said Elder Yue. "Yue Yue is my daughter. I..."

    "Stop," Grandfather Xiang didn''t let him continue. "When I said, our Yue doesn''t have any parents, I meant it. When I first met her, she was just an orphan. Now, where are these parentsing from?"

    Elder Yue''s heart clenched when he heard that and said, "Even if you refuse to ept it, she is still our Yue family''s daughter."

    "Tsk," Grandfather Xiang tsked at that. "Oh? Do you have proof? Why don''t we check the Yue family''s genealogy? Everything will be cleared."

    Elder Yue''s hand shook and he held his knee to stop the trembling. It was clear that Grandfather Xiang''s attack wasn''t bad. That one statement was enough. There was nothing else to add to that.

    Grandpa Zhai cleared his throat but stayed quiet. He didn''t want to take a side right now. If he had to, he''d definitely stand beside his best friend rather than his ex-inws. Besides, he didn''t think his best friend was wrong.

    "Blood rtions can''t be forsaken," said Madam Yue. "And they don''t need any proof either. You''re making Yue an unfilial daughter by saying that she refused to ept her own parents. We suffered so much to bring her to this world."

    "And you almost took her life as well," said Grandfather Xiangzily. "Who are you to question me? If you''re a mother, you''d act like one. Your daughter kneeled for a whole night in the rain outside your home asking for forgiveness, what did you do? She almost lost her life that night, what did you do? She lost her voice that night, what did you do?!"

    There was a rage in Grandfather Xiang''s eyes by the end of his words which started Madam Yue to the core. She wasn''t a match for Grandfather Xiang''s momentum at all.

    "What happened to Yue?" asked Grandma Zhai. "Brother Xiang, what do you mean by she lost her voice?"

    Grandfather Xiang took a deep breath and said, "Yue can''t talk. She lost her voice years ago because their precious daughter pushed her out of the house which made her sustain a head injury. Adding on the dy in treatment by kneeling futilely outside their door, her nerves were damaged and she can''t speak anymore. So, your grace of giving birth was returned that very night." He stared at Elder Yue who was frozen at this time and went on, "You should be thankful that Yue Yue respected you and that''s why she kept that surname of your family. Or else, today, she''d have nothing to do with your family."

    He was right. The only reason Yue Yue kept her surname was because of her father. Till the very end, she really respected her father and since her name was given by him, she didn''t want to change it at all.

    "I don''t have anything else to say to you," said Grandfather Xiang. "You already believed that she is dead. Then treat it as that. There is no need to think about her or try to atone now that you''re feeling guilty. It''s toote for that. Better stay away from Yue''er. She is my, Xiang family''s daughter now. And we happen to be very protective of our family members." He took a deep breath and added, "It''s because that Yue''er doesn''t want me to do anything that I''m being very cordial for now. But if you or anyone from your family did anything, it won''t end well. I know very well how to protect what is mine. I might be old but I still know how to be fair." That was a tant attack on Elder Yue but he couldn''t even say anything.

 Chapter 965: A Sister Like Chenyan

    Chapter 965: A Sister Like ChenyanGrandpa Zhai wasn''t surprised to see this version of his best friend. He was well aware of Grandfather Xiang''s anger. And when he said that he was protective of his family, he wasn''t just saying it. Grandpa Zhai knew how much the Xiang family valued their family members. And blood wasn''t the only thing important to be a family member.

    To be honest, he was feeling gratified that Yue Yue was now considered a part of the Xiang family. It meant she wasn''t alone now and she didn''t have to always trample on her wishes to give in to someone else. She could be herself.

    But this family came to her at the cost of her own voice which really saddened him.

    For a long time, no one spoke anything. Grandfather Xiang wasn''t interested in talking. Elder Yue was too shocked by the news of Yue Yue''s condition and even Madam Yue was in disbelief. While Grandpa Zhai and Grandma Zhai didn''t think it was right to speak.

    "Master, are you alright?" the silence was broken by Madam Yue who held Elder Yue''s arm and asked in worry.

    Elder Yue shook his head, "I''m fine." He looked up at Grandfather Xiang and said, "No wonder she didn''t say a word when we ran into her the other day. I thought she hated me so much that didn''t even want to say a word to me now."

    "She doesn''t hate you," said Grandfather Xiang. "At least, she grew up in front of your eyes. You should know better what kind of a person she is. She isn''t capable of hating anyone. She is too nice and that''s why everyone liked to walk all over her."

    "Indeed," agreed Grandpa Zhai. "Yue Yue had always been a kind person and the sincerest one. But her sincerity wasn''t reciprocated that ended up hurting her at every turn. I hope she doesn''t have to go through that again."

    "Old Zhai, you don''t have to worry. Even if one day I''m not around, my family''s Chenyan won''t let anything happen to Yue''er."

    Grandpa Zhai nodded his head with a smile, "How can I forget Chenyan? She can handle everything."

    "Yes, she can," said Grandfather Xiang.

    Grandma Zhai looked at the Yue couple and said meaningfully, "Chenyan is the kind of sister that Yue Yue needed. After all, Yue Yue won''t have to fight for anything with her. In fact, with Chenyan''s doting temperament she might be willing to bring the world to her sister''s feet."

    Grandfather Xiang chuckled, "That''s true. Even though Yue Yue is the older one between them, it''s always Chenyan who is hiding Yue Yue behind herself. It took her years to bring back the confidence that Yue''er lost. I''m happy to see that finally, Yue''er is willing to face the world again."

    "You tell her to face us as well,"ined Grandma Zhai. "Thest time we were there, we couldn''t even recognize her at all. And she didn''t even bother introducing herself." Thinking of something, she asked, "Does Shui Koshing know about her? He must know. Your families are inws now, and you live right next to each other. There is no way that he didn''t run into Yue. Even he didn''t mention anything to us."

    "Sister-inw," started Grandfather Xiang. "I told you, Yue''er wasn''t ready. It''s not Koshing''s fault. After losing her voice and facing the world all alone, she stumbled a lot through life and even got hurt. It broke her confidence and she hid in a shell. I''m telling you, if Chenyan isn''t around, Yue''er can spend the whole day holed up in her room."

    "It''s good to have Chenyan around," said Grandma Zhai. "You bring her over for a meal sometimes, Brother Xiang."

    "Isn''t it better for you toe over to our ce for a meal?" suggested Grandfather Xiang.

    "I''lle. I''ll bring my grandson. He was asking me about his aunt..." Grandma Zhai''s eyes widened the more she spoke and looked at Grandfather Xiang. "Don''t tell me, my family''s Yanjun also met her?"

    Grandfather Xiang silently sipped on tea and pretended to be deaf. Was he supposed to say that not only her grandson but also her son even met Yue Yue? That won''t end well.

    Grandma Zhai took a deep breath to calm herself, "I''m gonna deal with my grandson. Even he is keeping secrets from his grandma now."

    Grandpa Zhai was silent for a while as he thought about something and asked, "Old Xiang, have Yanjun been spending a lot of time with Yue?"

    "Why are you asking that?"

    "Our grandson had always been gloomy and withdrawn. But since the time he started going to your ce, he came back with a smile always. And spoke a lot more than before. All in all, his whole person seems brighter than before. So, I''m wondering if it has something to do with Yue?"

    Grandfather Xiang looked at the silent Yue couple before he replied honestly, "Yanjun likes toe and see Yue''er whenever he has time. Even Yue''er packs him meals whenever she makes something delicious and brings it to him at the Base. It''s true that he likes spending time with his aunt. Even if he couldn''t talk with her, he was happy just being with her. I also noticed the change in him. But isn''t it a good thing?"

    "Of course, it is," said Grandpa Zhai happily. "I always had worried about that one grandson of mine. Now, I can finally be at ease. Even where I''m not seeing, someone is taking care of him. Isn''t that a blessing?"

    "But then again, our Yanjun had always been fond of his aunt Yue when he was kid," said Grandma Zhai. "It seems no matter what, that affection couldn''t be forgotten."

    "It''s not only not forgotten but it has only deepened," said Grandfather Xiang. "Yue''er can even forget her own son when Yanjun is around. It always irks my little prince how his mother forgets him."

 Chapter 966: [Bonus chapter] Like A Queen

    Chapter 966: [Bonus chapter] Like A QueenBoth Grandpa Zhai and Grandma Zhai went quiet when they heard that as it suddenly clicked to them that when they met Yue Yue in disguise back then, they did meet her son. That bright and lively young man named, Hyson!

    And when they first met him, they both were surprised by how simr he looked to Zhai Yanjun''s younger version. But now that they thought about it again...

    "Brother Xiang, that Hyson is Yue Yue''s son, right?" asked Grandma Zhai.

    "Yes," replied Grandfather Xiang. "His name is Yue Fai."

    "Yes, yes. That''s the name. I remember," said Grandma Zhai. "It''s difficult to forget that young man. He has a sparkling personality. You can never forget him after seeing him once."

    "Indeed," Grandfather Xiang''s face softened when he spoke about Hyson. "Our family''s little prince is that dazzling. He always leaves his mark wherever he goes. He always has a way to charm people. If it wasn''t for that talent, he wouldn''t have be best friends with our Raelle."

    It was too obvious to see how much Grandfather Xiang loved and valued Hyson. Just the way he was called the little prince was enough to show his status in the family. It really surprised Grandma Zhai.

    "Old Xiang, about Yue Fai''s..."

    "We won''t talk about that," stopped Grandfather Xiang before his best friend could continue. "It''s not important. What''s important is that he is my family''s child. He is the youngest grandson. Although he is the youngest, he is all about doing big things. Lately, he''s been looking for a match for his Weimin Ge."

    Since Grandfather Xiang didn''t let him talk about it, Grandpa Zhai dropped the topic as well.

    "I haven''t seen that boy in a long while," said Grandpa Zhai. "I''ll have to go to your ce for a meal soon to see him. He always brings a smile to my face."

    "You''d be disappointed," said Grandfather Xiang. "This week he is traveling to another province for work. He won''t be back for a month or so. I feel like my whole home just darkened in his absence."

    "That''s a shame. But it''s okay. We live in the same city. I''ll get to see him. Since he is Yue''s son, he can also be considered my own grandson. I have to wait for him."

    Grandfather Xiang pressed his lips together and mentally thought about how true his best friend''s words were.

    Meanwhile, Elder Yue and Madam Yue just sat there awkwardly in silence without any chance to speak. First, they didn''t know what to say. Second, no one would allow them to join their conversation. It was like Grandfather Xiang was reminding them how anything regarding Yue Yue had nothing to do with them at all.

    It pained Elder Yue but he couldn''t do anything about this at all.

    Once he heard that his daughter had a son, his eyes had a light but it soon dawned on him that he couldn''t do anything. Whether he had another grandson or not didn''t really matter. When his daughter no more belonged to his family, how could he rightfully go over to see his grandson?

    But after all these depressing thoughts, Elder Yue came to a serious question. Who was the father of Yue''s son? He didn''t hear anything about that. How old was Yue''s son? If the suspicion in his heart was true that meant, the son was... he looked over at the Old Zhai couple and sighed mentally.

    It really didn''t matter, he reminded himself and purposely chose to not even mention anything about this right now.

    ....

    On the other hand, once again Mu Chenyan had to drag her best friend out saying, "Elder Xiang ordered some dresses for us."

    ''Why?''

    "You and I are going on a date again," replied Mu Chenyan. "We need to go on more dates. You know, it helps in cultivating our rtionship."

    Yue gave her an ugly look, ''Stop this nonsense!''

    "My Fai isn''t around," said Mu Chenyan. "Someone in the family has to take his ce in spitting nonsense everywhere. No one else can do it better than me."

    ''Of course, no one else can. Since he learned it from you.''

    Mu Chenyan grinned, "I know I''m a good teacher. No need to say it."

    Yue Yue rolled her eyes at her shamelessness.

    When they came out, they found the dresses that were delivered for both of them. Mu Chenyan looked through Yue Yue''s pile of dresses and picked one in cream color that looked elegant and sophisticated. With that golden linings in it, it gave a regal feel.

    "You wear this," said Mu Chenyan. "It suits your temperament."

    ''For a date, this is too over the top.''

    Mu Chenyan pushed the dress in her hands saying, "When I say do something, you should just listen. What''s the point in arguing when I''m gonna win the argument by hook or by crook anyway? It''s just wasting your and my time. So, let''s save time."

    Yue Yue wanted to say something but she held herself back and went to get dressed. It was really no point in arguing with Mu Chenyan. As she said, she was gonna win anyway. If she didn''t listen, Mu Chenyan will get physical and might even go as far as putting that dress on Yue Yue with her own hands.

    So, she was willing to choose the safe route out of this by getting dressed on her.

    No matter what, it was embarrassing to have someone dress you up like a kid at this age. But the shameless Mu Chenyan didn''t think so.

    Mu Chenyan was satisfied with Yue Yue''s reaction and then she looked through the dresses she got. She chuckled to herself, "My adorable Elder Xiang really knows what kind of clothes I like."

    She picked up a pant suit that gave her a bossdy feels and took it with her to get dressed. If she was gonna walk down that red carpet at the charity auction with a beauty in her arms, she had to look like a Queen herself!

 Chapter 967: Disrespectful

    Chapter 967: DisrespectfulWhen they reached the venue, Yue Yue gave Mu Chenyan a look, ''Is this really a ce to go on a date?''

    Mu Chenyan looked at the grand but low-key affair of this charity auction and touched her earring saying, "It''s a trendy ce for dating."

    Yue Yue gave her a disdainful look and rolled her eyes at her, ''You don''t even change face when lying.''

    "It''s a talent I''m proud of," said Mu Chenyan. Then she smiled sweetly, took Yue Yue''s hand, and wrapped it around her arm, saying, "Since you''re my date tonight, act like it. Also, did I mention that you''re looking gorgeous?"

    Yue Yue shuddered at her words but didn''t let go of her arm. It wasn''t the first time she had to hang around with this girlfriend in this manner. She might have been reserved and awkward before but now, this was very natural and normal.

    ''Then are you happy to have such a beautiful date tonight?''

    Mu Chenyan smiled seeing Yue Yue not hiding in the face of her shamelesspliments and instead was teasing back, she was genuinely happy about it. "What happy? I''m super proud right now!"

    Yue Yue pinched Mu Chenyan and walked inside with her. Who asked her to find a domineering and shameless best friend? She was indeed a perfect match for Yue Yue''s personality.

    The ushers directed the twodies toward the private rooms on the second floor. But before they walked up, Mu Chenyan wanted to show Yue Yue around seeing how this little girlfriend of hers was curious about everything here. How could she not be? It wasn''t Yue Yue''s first time being at a charity auction but this one was different. She could feel it already before she even entered the venue and after entering, the feeling only intensified.

    This was a grand venue and even the identities of the guests seemed grand. It wasn''t the kind of auction where stars were invited to hype up. This was really a ce where aristocrats and families with deep roots gathered.

    Mu Chenyan took out the wooden box she had taken from Elder Xiang''s safe and offered it to the organizers of the auction. Then she took Yue Yue to look around. No one stopped her even when they walked around backstage so leisurely as if taking a walk in their garden. Mu Chenyan patiently introduced everything rted to this auction.

    "I thought I saw wrong but it really is you."

    Mu Chenyan looked up at the woman who spoke. Her expression didn''t change at all and she faced the woman before her with a distant look. Yue Yue being closest to Mu Chenyan could see that she didn''t even bother putting on the polite smile that she offered everyone. And that meant this woman was not someone Mu Chenyan was willing to even pretend for.

    "Mu Chenyan," said the woman. "Aren''t you gonna greet your aunt now? Don''t you know how to respect your elders?"

    Mu Chenyan snorted, "You''ve got a thick face to actually dare say this to me. I respect my elders. You... I don''t consider you an elder, why should I respect you?"

    "Haven''t you always been good at pretense?" said the old woman. "You always wear the face of the polite and well-behaveddy in front of your uncle. He should see this face of yours to understand what kind of a person you are."

    Mu Chenyan snorted, "Do you think I''m pretending in front of him? I only give him face by pretending to be cordial with you. Don''t take yourself so seriously. Because I have never taken you seriously."

    Yue Yue was surprised to hear Mu Chenyan talking like this. She had never seen Mu Chenyan being this disrespectful to someone.

    "Mu Chenyan, don''t be so proud. Don''t forget who I am. Do you think you can speak to me however you want?"

    "Mrs. Gou, the only reason you''re invited here is because you married into the Gou family. Do you think you''re a big shot? I have the right to be proud. Even if I''m a useless person, I was still born in the prestigious Mu family with Gou family being my maternal family. You just married into a prestigious family. Between the two of us, you''re better at pretending. Haven''t you been pretending all these years to hide how you managed to enter the door of the Gou family?"

    After saying those words, Mu Chenyan took Yue Yue away. She didn''t want to talk to this woman anymore. If she wasn''t married to her Uncle Gou, Mu Chenyan wouldn''t even spare her a nce. She was the reason Mu Chenyan didn''t like going to her maternal family and kept her distance as much as possible.

    She had a good rtionship with everyone in the Gou family except for this woman whom she particrly despised. It wasn''t because she was a nobody before marrying into Gou family. It was because of her cheap ways. She was always trying to stir up troubles within the family to disrupt the harmony between siblings and cousins.

    ''You really hate her,''mented Yue Yue when they sat down inside the VIP private room upstairs.

    Mu Chenyan picked up a ss of water to drink and only spoke after drinking water, "Hate her? I don''t have that much time to waste on her. I''d even forget her existence if she wasn''t always trying to show up in front of me to find her sense of existence. It''s tragic how a woman like her is the mother of my cousins. I''m d they didn''t inherit anything from their mother or they''d be too stupid. I''d really disown such cousins if they were stupid like their mother."

    ''Why do I think there is more to it?'' asked Yue Yue. ''You aren''t someone to get worked up because of stupid people. There had to be a reason why she is so displeasing to you.''

    Mu Chenyan sighed, "Our Yue is getting good at observation."

 Chapter 968: [Bonus chapter] My Mother?

    Chapter 968: [Bonus chapter] My Mother?''Isn''t it because of your influence?''

    Yue Yue shook her head. Living with people with scary observations, she had to up her game a little or she''d look like a simpleton between them. Well, she was indeed still far off but it was better than before when she always stayed clueless about what was happening.

    ''I just realized you have never spoken like this before to anyone. You never bring up your status or noble birth to put down people. It''s the first time for me to see this.''

    Mu Chenyan smiled at her, "To say, I''m not proud of the family I was born in would be wrong. Maybe I don''t throw my weight around using my family''s prestige but I''m very proud. I have three families to be proud of. My Mu family died on the battlefields saving soldiers. My adopted family the Xiang have also sacrificed their everything for the homnd. And my Gou family is also serving the people of this homnd. I think I have the right to be proud."

    ''But you never speak of it.''

    "I don''t have to. Only my heart needs to know how proud I am of my family. I spoke of status in front of that woman simply; that''s what she hates the most."

    Seeing the evil smile on her face, Yue Yue understood her intentions.

    That was so typical of Mu Chenyan''s behavior, how did she not notice? Mu Chenyan would always hurt right where it hurt the other person the most. Since what that woman cared most about was her birth, Mu Chenyan would purposely bring it up to strike her face without lifting her hand.

    Mu Chenyan forked a piece of apple and bit it with a crunch sound before she looked at the stage from the ss wall as she said, "That woman is the indirect reason I lost both my parents on the same day. I might not waste my time hating her but I have no good feelings for her either. I don''t mind pping her face even if she is an elder of my family."

    Yue Yue was surprised to hear that. She didn''t expect to hear something like this. It was rare for Mu Chenyan to talk about her birth parents. She was always so carefree that one would think she didn''t even remember her parents but the truth was, she remembered everything. It was the matter of speaking about it or not. She chose not to. Besides, she wasn''t someone to wallow all the time.

    ''Are you okay?'' asked Yue Yue.

    "Do I look like I''m gonna cry?" asked Mu Chenyan in return. "Don''t even think about it. I don''t cry over the past. It makes me feel like a fool. Come and sit closer. The auction is starting. See what you like, I''ll buy it for you."

    Yue Yue gave her a look, ''You really like the role of the overbearing CEO.''

    "So what? I love indulging my sweetheart," said Mu Chenyan. "What''s wrong with it? You just point at the thing, I promise to bring it." Seeing how Yue Yue ignored her, she added, "If you didn''t pick something of your choice, I''ll buy everything for you on this auction. Do you wanna try?"

    ''I''ll pick!'' said Yue Yue as she was genuinely scared by that warning. She didn''t think it was just a warning. Mu Chenyan was certainly capable of buying everything without blinking. She didn''t want to risk it.

    ''What have our family put for auction?''

    Mu Chenyan looked at Yue Yue who raised her brow.

    ''What? What are you looking at?''

    Mu Chenyan shrugged and said, "Nothing. I just think you look even more pleasing to the eyes now."

    Yue Yue squinted her eyes and recalled their conversation before rolling her eyes at Mu Chenyan. Just because she said ''our family'' this woman was so pleased? Tsk. It was really difficult to understand Mu Chenyan who was dubbed as a tyrant by many.

    "Answer to your earlier question is, we took a 17th century artifact," said Mu Chenyan. Her phone rang and she checked the messages before chuckling, "Elder Xiang said to buy you something nice. It seems, you''ll have to pick two things."

    Yue Yue hugged herself before saying, ''My son is right. You both have spoiled me too much. I don''t even think anything is wrong in letting you buy me something now.''

    "Who asked you to be the cutest person in our family?"

    ''I''m the cutest? Are you sure? What about the others?"

    "Have you looked at my nieces or my nephew? Even my godson just acts like an adorable bean. In truth, the only person who is genuinely cute is you."

    Yue Yue was silent for a while before she asked, ''Elder Xiang is meeting my parents today right?''

    "Why? Are you scared? Don''t be. I''ll protect you."

    Yue Yue punched her arm but with her delicate wrists, it was more like ying around. How could that hurt Mu Chenyan''s thick skin? It didn''t even tickle!

    ''I''m not scared. I just think I can close a chapter today. I''d have nothing to do with that family anymore.''

    "If you don''t want to have anything to do with them, naturally, we''ll not let you have anything to do with them. They don''t deserve a daughter like you. You just be filial to me in the future. I''ll be good to you."

    ''Filial to you? Who are you? My mother?''

    Mu Chenyan tried to stop herself but still ended up saying cheekily, "Not your mother. But I can be your sugar mommy. Do you wanna try?"

    Yue Yue gaped at her in disbelief before her cheeks puffed up in anger. She looked around for something and ended up taking a cushion and hitting Mu Chenyan who justughed in return at her blowing her top. It was always fun to tease this little girlfriend. She won''t deny it. It was her favorite thing to do. Who asked Yue Yue to give such interesting reactions?

 Chapter 969: Cryptic

    Chapter 969: CrypticYue Yue was really hopping mad and wanted to seriously do something to this best friend of hers who would say such things without changing her expression.

    She pointed at Mu Chenyan and mouthed, ''You''re shameless!''

    Mu Chenyanughed even louder, "I know."

    The door to their private room opened and they turned their head simultaneously to see Xia Zhao standing at the door. His eyes moved to their current position.

    While Mu Chenyan was pressed down, Yue Yue was all over her, it was definitely not a very innocent position. He raised his brow at Mu Chenyan and said, "Your appetite is getting bigger."

    Mu Chenyan looked at him in disbelief while Yue Yue hurriedly moved away from her and stood at a side while fixing herself. "Bugger off!"

    Xia Zhao''s lips curled inconspicuously but he didn''t take her words seriously. "Someone is not in a good mood. I guess the credit for that goes to your aunt-inw."

    Mu Chenyan wasn''t surprised that he already knew that. Even if he didn''t hear anything regarding this, her mood alone was enough to clear everything to him since he knew her inside out. There weren''t many things that could affect her mood.

    "Don''t you know how to knock on the door?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "I did," he replied. "I knocked three times before opening the door."

    Mu Chenyan didn''t say anything. It seemed they were too loud and didn''t notice the door knock at all. But that didn''t mean she was willing to ept her mistake.

    "So what? If I didn''t tell you toe in, you shouldn''t enter."

    Instead of butting heads with her, he closed the door surprising her before she heard a clear knock. Her eyes closed and her lips pursed. Argh! This hateful man!

    "Come in already!"

    Xia Zhao opened the door and walked in this time instead of just standing at the door. Only then did Yue Yue notice that even if he opened the door earlier, he didn''t step inside.

    "Why are you here?"

    "I came to inform you that your aunt-inw is here," he said. "But seeing your face, I realized it was not necessary since you already ran into her."

    "Since you''re done, you can leave," she said.

    "I''m not done though. I didn''te to see you," was his response as he walked towards Yue Yue. "It''s good to see you here, Yue. Have you tried the snacks? If anything is not to your liking, let me know. I''ll ask them to change it for you."

    Yue Yue mouthed, "Thank you, but everything is fine for now. I''ll let you know if I need anything."

    Mu Chenyan stared at their interaction and said, "When did you get so close to each other? You just met once!"

    Xia Zhao answered it for her, "Even if we met only once, we felt an instant connection with each other."

    Mu Chenyan snorted, "It took me a decade to break her walls and step inside her life and it took you a moment to be all chummy with her? There you go again making me doubt my own capabilities."

    "Well, that was never the intention."

    "Yes, it never was!" she sounded very sarcastic.

    Yue Yue smiled to herself when she saw this and didn''t know what to say right now. It was true that she actually got instantly connected with Xia Zhao only after meeting him once but that was because of theirmon interest named Mu Chenyan. She really found it funny how Mu Chenyan was mad about this.

    "What are you mad about?" he asked.

    "I''m not mad," said Mu Chenyan as she walked to him and held his wrist. Lifting his hand, she pulled up his sleeve and looked at the wound she gave him the other day. Within such a short time, the wound seemed to be healing very well.

    "Didn''t I tell you not to touch me so indiscriminately?" He spoke up. "Give me a warning first."

    Mu Chenyan looked up into his eyes, "Why? Why should I? I''m just checking your wound. It''s not like you''re a little virgin boy who is afraid of getting his chastity sullied. You''re not that chaste!"

    "And whose fault is that?" he asked in return.

    Yue Yue gasped silently when she saw their interaction and heard their conversation. She seemed to have heard something unbelievable. No, wait. It wasn''t all that unbelievable if she thought about it carefully. Still, it was shocking news!

    She tapped on Mu Chenyan''s shoulder interrupting their staringpetition and mouthed, ''He is one of those three?''

    Mu Chenyan''s mind suddenly went nk while Xia Zhao pulled out his hand from her grasp and pulled down his sleeve as he answered Yue Yue instead of Mu Chenyan. "Indeed. I''m just one of those three!"

    After saying that, he turned to leave. Taking a pause, he looked at Yue Yue and said, "My private room is on the upper floor. I''ll invite you to lunch if you have time after this."

    Yue Yue nodded her head in a daze and watched him leave.

    She turned to look at Mu Chenyan who was unusually silent and tapped her shoulder again to ask, ''Did I say something wrong?''

    Mu Chenyan shook her head and gave her a reassuring smile, "You didn''t say anything wrong. Don''t worry about it."

    ''Then why is he mad?''

    "He isn''t," answered Mu Chenyan. "That''s not how he looks when he is mad. I told you, don''t worry about it. Everything is fine." She pulled her to sit with her, "Come and sit. Let''s enjoy this auction. You won''t see such a spectacle anywhere else apart from here."

    Yue Yue still felt something was wrong but she couldn''t understand it. She already felt that Mu Chenyan and Xia Zhao covered in a cryptic manner which she couldn''t decipher most of the time. So, it wasn''t surprising that she wasn''t to make sense of this situation right now.

    Rather than saying that Xia Zhao was mad, she felt it seemed Mu Chenyan''s mood had worsened when she brought up that topic. Argh! Forget it! She couldn''t waste so much mental power on these two.

 Chapter 970: [Bonus chapter] Nothing To Exchange

    Chapter 970: [Bonus chapter] Nothing To ExchangeThe auction went on for three hours and Yue Yue was dazzled by the variety of things that appeared in this auction. Just as Mu Chenyan had said, she wouldn''t see such a spectacle anywhere else.

    In the end, Mu Chenyan bought andscape painting for Yue Yue and a golden hairpin encrusted with priceless gems. That hairpin definitely looked like something that the Empresses used with that phoenix design. It was too grand. But it was still eptable.

    She was happy that she managed to convince Mu Chenyan to not bid on the headdress with pearl tassels. That thing looked so heavy and was too ostentatious. She didn''t want it at all but Mu Chenyan kept saying it would look good on her. Finally, she managed to convince Mu Chenyan otherwise.

    Apart from these, Mu Chenyan bid for an arrow. Yes, it was an arrow. Yue Yue with her simple knowledge had no idea why Mu Chenyan wanted that arrow or what was special about it. Although she did hear the auctioneer say that some general used this arrow or whatever, she still didn''t see the value of it because it was of no interest to her.

    But it seemed quite precious to Mu Chenyan who was happy to get her hands on it. She was genuinely happy and swept away her precious heavy mood just from winning the bidding for this arrow. Yue Yue could only call her ''crazy'' in her head.

    ''Are you that happy?''

    "I am," answered Mu Chenyan. After the auction, the things they won were delivered to their private room without them having to move at all. But just as the staff put down the things, a woman in a fancy qipao strutted in.

    Yue Yue froze when she saw this woman while Mu Chenyan''s face was indifferent.

    The woman put on a formal smile and greeted, "Hello, Ms. Mu, I''m Yue Lan. I have heard a lot about you and when I heard you''re here on this auction, I couldn''t helping to greet you."

    Mu Chenyan didn''t want to greet this two-faced person. Did she look that gullible to actually believe that this bitch came over to say hi? Did they know each other? Even their social circles didn''t match. Where did she have the nerve to say that she heard about Mu Chenyan a lot? Was Mu Chenyan someone that just anyone knew?

    Mu Chenyan didn''t know about it before but at this moment she was truly angry all from just seeing the face of Yue Lan which was slightly simr to Yue Yue. She had seen their photos from when these sisters were young. At that time, the simrity between their features was deeper and even their figures were simr.

    At least from the back, it''d be hard to tell which Yue sister it was.

    But now, with age, one could see their differences clearly. Because Yue Lan now looked more like a mature woman while Yue Yue still retained her delicate blooming beauty with a hint of innocence. Yue Lan was a beautiful middle-aged woman, it was just that the craftiness in her eyes ruined the whole aesthetic.

    "There is no need to be so polite," said Mu Chenyan. "Ms. Yue can tell me what can I do for you."

    Yue Lan did not think that she''d get right to the chase. She thought she''d just introduce herself and then make some small talk, trying to get closer before asking for what she wanted. But clearly, her n was foiled. Her partner was wrong, this Mu Chenyan wasn''t easy to talk with. And Yue Lan couldn''t mess around since Mu Chenyan sat in a private room on the second floor, it was clear she wasn''t someone Yue Lan could offend.

    Yue Lanughed awkwardly, "Since Ms. Mu is so direct, then I won''t beat around the bush. I wonder if Ms. Mu is willing to make an exchange with me. Thatndscape painting is made by Master Fang. It was hisst work and is considered very precious. I had my eye on it for a long time."

    "I don''t see your point," said Mu Chenyan carelessly.

    Yue Lan took a deep breath, "I can exchange with you a calligraphy painting from my personal collection. You can pick anything you like. But I need this painting since I promised someone."

    "The promise is yours, the matter is yours. Why does it concern me? I won it fairly. If you wanted it, you should have bid on it when the time was still there. Now the train has left the station. There is no need to ask me for a favor. I don''t do favors."

    "I have the calligraphy work of Master Ouyang," spoke up Yue Lan. "You can imagine its value. That''s certainly more valuable than this painting."

    Mu Chenyan gave her a look and chuckled, "Even if it''s a priceless treasure I still won''t exchange it. Why should I? My best friend took a fancy to this painting. Nothing you can bring to the table that can convince me to make this exchange. Don''t waste my time. Yours might not be important but mine is very precious."

    Yue Yue didn''t think Mu Chenyan was insisting on keeping the painting just because she said she liked it. But she only said it casually because she didn''t know what else to choose. Finding the painting pleasing, she chose it. She held Mu Chenyan''s hand from behind trying to signal her to let her have it but Mu Chenyan ignored her signal.

    Yue Yue might be willing to offer whatever was hers to this Yue Lan because she grew up doing it. But she was Mu Chenyan and she had never been someone who''d let anyone have what belonged to her. Who said she''d let this annoying woman take her best friend''s things? Did she look like she was easy to bully?

    She''d like to see how much guts this Yue Lan got to actually seek a favor from her.

 Chapter 971: Cant Covet

    Chapter 971: Can''t CovetYue Lan was trying hard to suppress her emotions right now. Wasn''t it an unspoken rule to always be polite to others'' faces? She didn''t expect Mu Chenyan to p her face without any qualms. She really didn''t expect Mu Chenyan wasn''t someone who cared about others'' opinions of her.

    For a moment, she didn''t know how to react or how to deal with someone like Mu Chenyan who didn''t y cards ording to the rules. She was too careless in her conduct.

    She noticed the small movement of hands between Yue Yue and Mu Chenyan and frowned. All this while, she didn''t even know there was another person standing behind Mu Chenyan.

    "What are you waiting for?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Do I have to explicitly tell you to get out?"

    Yue Lan''s face flushed in anger and she wanted to say something but held herself back. She took out her business card and offered it to Mu Chenyan, "If you change your mind, Ms. Mu can contact me anytime."

    Mu Chenyan didn''t even move to take that card from her hand and Yue Lan had to bow before her and ce the card on the table before leaving. Watching her leave, Mu Chenyan snorted. Then she turned to face her best friend, "What''s the fun in this hide and seek you love to y?"

    Yue Yue didn''t react immediately, she was thinking of something before she told Mu Chenyan, ''I didn''t expect to see her here. It caught me off guard. Besides, she... You don''t realize how much control she had over me since childhood.''

    "But I need to remind you again, you''re not a helpless child anymore. You''re not living under her shadow. You''re not her sister anymore. You''re not in her home where she rules. No matter what control she had on you is useless now. She can''t even touch you now."

    Yue Yue smiled at Mu Chenyan and nodded, ''I understand that all. Some reactionse subconsciously to you.'' It''s not like she was really scared of Yue Lan. With Mu Chenyan standing in front of her, Yue Yue could say she wasn''t scared of anything. But that won''t change the fact that Yue Lan had left Yue Yue with psychological trauma.

    From a young age, she had to give in to her sister. Because that was what a younger sister was supposed to do. She grew up with the understanding that if her sister liked something, she couldn''t covet that thing. It was to the point that if she picked a dress simr to her sister, she wasn''t allowed to wear it.

    Whatever Yue Lan had, Yue Yue can''t possess it.

    It was this twisted mentality that left Yue Yue with such a small presence in her own family. And that''s why she liked spending time with either Shui Xian''s mother or with Zhai Kuijun. Because they would never make her feel like nothing belonged to her or that she was just an unnecessary part of the Yue family.

    Mu Chenyan sat down and threw her head back to close her eyes to rx as shemented, "Today isn''t my day. I keep running into flies. Oh, how I wish to swat these flies to death."

    Yue Yue pressed her lips hearing that and sat down beside Mu Chenyan. She ced her hand on Mu Chenyan''s shoulder and told her, ''You don''t have to spoil your mood because of me.''

    "Who said it''s because of you?" retorted Mu Chenyan. "Even if Yue Lan had nothing to do with you, I still won''t exchange this painting with her. Who does she think she is? Do I look likeck anything? I won the bidding. Why should I make an exchange with her? If she has the ability, she can bid again and see if she has more money or me? Wants to ask me to make a private exchange? In her dreams!"

    ''You don''tck these Chinese paintings.''

    "Just because I don''tck it doesn''t mean I''m willing to give it to someone like her. Besides, I bought it for you. It''s about time she should learn that she also can''t covet what belongs to others."

    Yue Yue went silent and felt veryplicated inside. What''s with the people around her? Yue Lan didn''t want her to covet what was hers and Mu Chenyan won''t let Yue Lan covet what Yue Yue set her eyes on. Her best friend was very petty and held deep grudges. She should just let her be.

    ''Shall we leave?'' asked Yue Yue.

    "No, wait," said Mu Chenyan. "I don''t want to run into any other pest. Let''s wait for others to leave. I''m tired of verbal fights. I''ve used up my quota of verbal fighting ability for the day. Now, if anyone showed up, my tongue won''t work. But my hands are ready to throw some punches."

    Yue Yue rubbed her forehead seeing her acting like this but she didn''t doubt Mu Chenyan''s words. With her temperament, it was certain that if someone really appeared to find trouble with her now, she was gonna get physical. Her patience for verbal arguments was limited.

    "Did you hear? My little Fai got the role he auditioned for," said Mu Chenyan. "That reminded me, the child artist he''d be working with, I''m familiar with him."

    ''You know the child artist?'' asked Yue Yue.

    "Well, I did meet him. He is the birthday boy whose birthday party I went to attend a few days ago," told Mu Chenyan. "Although they won''t have any scenes together. But I should still introduce the two of them."

    ''You should mind your own business,'' was Yue Yue''s response.

    "What kind of a mother are you?"

    ''Not a nosy one!''

    "How is this being nosy? I just want our little Fai to befriend that little boy."

    ''They can be friends with their age difference?''

    "Both are cuties. I think they''ll be good friends." After talking nonsense to waste time, she finally stood up to leave, "Let''s go. We''re not staying here any longer."

 Chapter 972: [Bonus chapter] Sleep & Wine

    Chapter 972: [Bonus chapter] Sleep & WineOn the other hand, when Xia Zhao went back to his private room on the third floor, he was exceptionally silent. It wasn''t like he was usually a talkative person but right now, even the air around him was still.

    The man inside the room looked up at him and asked, "Did someone snatch your girlfriend, Zhao?"

    Xia Zhao looked back at the man whose eyes were shining with mirth and said, "Brother Zimen, let''s not do this."

    "Okay," said the man named Xin Zimen.

    "Ah-Zi, why are you so handsome?"

    Xia Zhao looked at the helpless smile that spread on Xin Zimen''s face when he heard those words from the woman who was firstying on his shoulder but now, was pinching his face.

    "My daddy is so handsome. You''re making women want tomit sins!"

    "Littless, you better stop," said Xin Zimen.

    Xia Zhao couldn''t help smiling and asked, "What''s wrong with your daughter?"

    "She is drunk," answered Xin Zimen.

    Xia Zhao looked at the jug of peach wine on the table and picked it up to check. He found it empty.

    "She drank it all?" he was shocked. The wine was very strong.

    Xin Zimen tried to control the arms of his daughter who was squirming around as he said, "Yes, she drank it all. Who told you to bring good wine in front of her and leave it unattended? You should know by now that our family''s Xiu is a drunkard! She has two favorite things in life; sleep and wine!"

    The woman named Xiu suddenly shot up from the chair and shook her head, "Ah-Zi! You''re wrong. Xiu loves three things in life, sleep, wine, and my Baobei! Where is my Baobei? Did he leave me? Wuwuwu! How can he leave his Sweets alone?"

    Xin Zimen facepalmed himself while Xia Zhao tried to hold back his smile but wasn''t able to do so. Xiu who was just crying with big pearly tears suddenly stopped and looked at Xia Zhao saying, "Uncle, you''re also very good-looking."

    "Thank you for thepliment, Xiu! But you''ve already said that way too many times during your sightseeing sessions."

    Xiu giggled, "I did? But no matter how many times I say it, you''re still very good looking. Why are you so good-looking?"

    "Genes," replied Xia Zhao.

    Xiu slumped down on the table andmented, "Genes are powerful. Why did my genes didn''t work? My son is so not cute. He didn''t even inherit the cuteness from his mother."

    "But he did inherit his father''s eyes," reminded Xin Zimen.

    "That''s the only good thing about him," she said.

    Xia Zhao shook his head, "Brother Zimen, your daughter is one and only in the world. She loves her son but she can definitely forget all about him when ites to her husband."

    Xin Zimen sighed, "She can forget the world for her husband. As she said, the only reason she dotes on her son is that he looks like his father. Otherwise, I can''t imagine what would have happened to him." He ignored his daughter and looked at Xia Zhao, "Where did you go?"

    "To see someone," answered Xia Zhao.

    "Do you mind borating on who is this ''someone''?" asked Xin Zimen.

    Xia Zhao didn''t reply at first and just looked carelessly at the auction stage. After a long while, he said, "Let''s not discuss that someone."

    Xin Zimen narrowed his eyes and said, "No wonder you have no friends. You really love your silence."

    "I think I also got that in my genes. No one in our n likes to talk much," said Xia Zhao. "Everyone is ying a silent game and yet, they canmunicate very well. It''s from them I learned that silence has its ownnguage. Only a few can understand the art of it though."

    Xin Zimen didn''t say anything. Soon, he heard the voice of someone bidding on a phoenix gold hairpin, and his eyes narrowed, "You went to see Mu Chenyan?"

    Xia Zhao touched his nose and didn''t deny it.

    Xin Zimen tsked at him, "I met her the other day at my grandson''s birthday. She came with Feifei. Oh, did I mention that she is actually trying to set Feifei up with her brother?"

    "What?" Xia Zhao was taken aback by that news. "She is matchmaking Xiang Hulin and Su Feifei?"

    "Yes," replied Xin Zimen.

    "And what are your thoughts on that?" asked Xia Zhao.

    "Do my thoughts matter?" asked Xin Zimen. "It''s Feifei''s life, not mine. I didn''t evenment when she wanted to stay single all this while."

    "But Su Feifei being your wife''s little sister is very important to you. Of course, you would have some opinions on her life partner."

    Xin Zimen nodded his head and said, "Actually, I don''t see anything wrong with it. Feifei doesn''t want children and Hulin already has grown-up kids. At this point, if they can get together and apany each other in old age, I don''t see a problem. But the prerequisite is that Xiang Hulin isn''t stuck on his ex-wife."

    "Then you have nothing to worry about," said Xia Zhao. "Hulin Ge is also from Xiang family. They are always clear-headed. Once a divorce means, that''s the end of it. Even if he respects her or cares for his ex-wife, it''s all because of the past rtionship and the kids they had together. Apart from that, I can assure you, he feels nothing for her."

    "It better be like that because Feifei is quite tempted by Mu Chenyan," informed Xin Zimen. "I can''t me her though. It''s hard to get over your first crush." As he said that, he was looking at Xia Zhao meaningfully.

    "I don''t have a crush on Yan Zi," said Xia Zhao.

    "I didn''t even say her name," said Xin Zimen with a smile and looked away. "Aren''t you gonna bid on something?"

    Xia Zhao ignored the look in his eyes and focused on the auction. It was not a point talking about anything with this man who only loved one woman all his life and surprisingly, that woman was no less of a tyrant than Mu Chenyan.

 Chapter 973: Love Like Wine

    Chapter 973: Love Like Wine"Uncle, are you in love?"

    Xin Zimen and Xia Zhao looked at Xiu who they thought was out of energy and was gonna stay quiet. But they really forgot that thiszy person was actually filled with endless energy. Her battery would never run out once she was drunk.

    "I''m not," said Xia Zhao.

    Xiu narrowed her eyes at him and went to stand before him. Her dazed eyes were sparkling at the moment as she stared at Xia Zhao trying to see if he was lying or not.

    "Uncle, I''ve known you for quite some years now," said Xiu. "I can tell your feelings." She didn''t wait for his response and instead went on, "How about we do a little test?"

    "Test?" he repeated.

    "Yes, I''ll say four words and you''ll tell me what firstes to your mind hearing those words."

    "That''s such an old trick."

    "Of course, I''ll add my twist to it."

    Xia Zhao knew he couldn''t escape. They were talking about Xiu here. This girl was difficult to handle when she was sober but she was worse when she was drunk!

    "Okay, I''ll y with you," said Xia Zhao. "Go ahead."

    Xiu grinned at him and raised her index finger, "First, apple."

    "Christman eve," he replied.

    "Maple leaves."

    "Acer palmatum."

    "Doves."

    "Graceful."

    "Now, thest one... white rose."

    "Funeral," his voice was low and his expression solemn.

    Xiu found his answers very interesting for some reason. They didn''t follow the norm and maybe that''s why she found them so interesting. "Now, Uncle, how about you tell me if all these things have something inmon? What do these things have inmon for you?"

    Xia Zhao stiffened for a moment as he looked at her. His thoughts wandered off. Apples reminded him of Christmas eve not because it was tradition to give apples on Christmas eve. It was because Mu Chenyan would always send him one apple on Christmas eve. Maple leaf reminded him of Acer palmatum species of maple trees because he nted those trees together with Mu Chenyan. Doves were graceful because whenever she wore her white jade pendant carved in the shape of a dove, she looked very mellow and graceful.

    As for white roses... They shouldn''t be associated with funerals but with divine love. However, in his mind, years ago when he met Mu Chenyan before she left, it was at the funeral of her godmother, Madam Xiang. The wife of Xiang Tianyu and grandmother of Raelle Xiang. And back then, Mu Chenyan had ced white roses beside her grave because Madam Xiang loved white roses.

    "Uncle Zhao, it seems you know what they have inmon. Or should I say, who they have inmon," chuckled Xiu cheekily. "Uncle Zhao, you''re in love. Don''t doubt it."

    "Maybe you''re wrong," he insisted.

    "I''m not. When you start associating things with people, you either love that person too much or hate that person too much. I highly doubt that you hate that person. So, the only possibility is love."

    "Are you really drunk, little schemer?" asked Xia Zhao.

    Xiu giggled, "Wine Xiu is smarter than sober Xiu! But the world is not ready for that discussion." She was silently looking at the auction stage before she said, "At any other time, perhaps all these things wouldn''t remind you of that person. But we were just discussing love and subconsciously that made you think of that person and how that person was associated with everything I just said." She turned to him and said, "Uncle Zhao, love is like wine. The older the wine, the stronger the taste, and the stronger the effect. Aged wine and aged love are intoxicating. Both bring you an addiction you can''t let go of. Maybe with time and self-control, you think you escaped from this addiction but yearster, just one glimpse of old love and one sniff of old wine is enough to pull you back to that addiction."

    Xia Zhao didn''t know what to say to her right now. It just reminded him of his own nephew.

    "So, it''s true. People associate love with what they find most interesting in life. Just like my nephew likes poisons and associated love with poisons. You like wine and are associating love with wine."

    "Tsk. No matter what you call love, you can''t deny it," she said. "Uncle, you should know you can''t run from love. Because the moment you start running, you''re already in the trap of love. Being scared of it only means it already has strong control over you. Denying it means, you''re not ready to confront this powerful enemy."

    Xia Zhao looked over at Xin Zimen and said, "She is really Sister Ai''s daughter."

    "You had doubts?" asked Xin Zimen.

    Xia Zhao shrugged, "Xiu, you... I don''t know how to deny what you just said. I can''t refute it. But epting it would only mean, I''m losing."

    "Love is a losing game! You want to find a winner in love? Are you dreaming?"

    "It''s not that I want to win. I''m willing to lose. But she isn''t. She hates losing me. She always did. She always wanted to win against me. You said it yourself, love is a losing game. She isn''t willing to y it and I don''t want to lose myself in the process."

    Xiu tsked at him, "But you already lost yourself." She looked at her father, "Ah-Xin, I''m tired. Let''s have some more wine?"

    "No," came the response.

    "Daddy!"

    "I said, no!"

    "Can''t you do this much for your one and only daughter?"

    "Stop emotionally ckmailing me."

    "Daddy, pity me. Even my husband abandoned me for his son!"

    "That''s your son as well!"

    "Then why is he always trying to take my husband from me?"

    "Your daughter has a serious husbandplex,"mented Xia Zhao.

    Xin Zimen couldn''t argue with that. Indeed, his daughter had a husbandplex. Who didn''t know that? Her whole life revolved around her husband.

    "I guess you should learn from her how to love," said Xin Zimen. "Trust me, her rtionship with her husband might teach you a thing or two."

 Chapter 974: [Bonus chapter] Provocation

    Chapter 974: [Bonus chapter] Provocation"Yes! We can teach you a lot!" eximed Xiu. "Uncle, you''re still single at this age. You have to learn. I already have an eight-year-old son. And I''m a decade younger than you! You should learn before it''s toote!"

    "You really need to stop," said Xia Zhao. "Aren''t you tired?"

    Xiu waved her arms around and stuck her face against the ss wall as she looked at the auction stage. Her eyes narrowed at what was being auctioned and she said, "Oh, that''s a beautiful cup. It''ll be good for some coffee."

    Both men looked at the stage and saw a white porcin cup with a blue painting which was from Qing Dynasty. It certainly was something people would disy in the ss but here she was wanting to have coffee in it. Only she could do it. Only she!

    "Let''s buy! Let''s buy it! Buy, buy, buy!"

    Even if she wanted it, to break it for fun, her father would buy it for her. Who cared why she wanted it?

    In the end, they bought only two things by the end of the auction. They waited in the private room for a while and didn''t leave immediately. Both of the men didn''t want to interact with other people and get besieged. So, they both weren''t in a hurry to leave at all.

    On the other hand, when Mu Chenyan was leaving with Yue Yue, there weren''t many people left around who would want to talk to her. Those who even saw her tacitly took a step away from her. Just Mu Chenyan''s expression right now was enough to deter most people who were familiar with her temper.

    It seemed Yue Lan didn''t leave and was standing with a man and a woman in the corridor as they exchanged pleasantries with fake smiles. Mu Chenyan didn''t want to pay attention to her and neither did Yue Lan want to run into her but who knew she''d see the person beside Mu Chenyan in full view and it made her eyes widen.

    "You''re still alive?" That was the first thing that came out of Yue Lan''s mouth when she saw Yue Yue.

    Yue Yue also saw her and knew she couldn''t hide right now. But she wasn''t gonna run. If one ignored half of her body hiding behind Mu Chneyan, than she seemed quite ready for a confrontation right now.

    "What are you doing here?" Yue Lan red at Yue Yue. "Didn''t I tell you to go and die somewhere else? How dare you appear in front of me again after what you did to me?"

    Yue Yue was very angry when she heard that. She always believed it was really her fault but now she didn''t think so. She stared back at Yue Lan fearlessly but her only shoring was, she couldn''t speak! She couldn''t throw back some words at the face of this hypocritical sister of hers!

    But she didn''t have to her. Her voice was Mu Chenyan who stood before her and snapped her finger before Yue Lan with an ugly expression, "Ms. Yue, are you perhaps blind?"

    Yue Lan was surprised and dissatisfied with Mu Chenyan''s question. She didn''t think this had anything to do with Mu Chenyan.

    "Ms. Mu, I''m talking to my sister."

    "Oh, howe I didn''t know you had a sister? Does anyone else know?"

    Yue Lan was tongue-tied because apart from their close family friends, rarely people knew that the Yue family had another Miss named Yue Yue all because Yue Lan wanted to remove Yue Yue''s existence.

    "Let me introduce you to my sister," said Mu Chenyan as she hugged Yue Yue''s shoulder and looked at Yue Lan. "This is my sister, Yue. She is our Xiang family''s person. That''s why I said, are you blind? How do you have the nerve to talk so rudely to someone from our family? Do you think you''re the president of the country or something?"

    Yue Lan was taken aback when she heard that and looked at Yue Yue incredulously while Yue Yue looked pleased and stared back at Yue Lan. But her looks seemed more like a provocation to Yue Lan who thought this scared little thing was now mocking her. This thing that Yue Lan could trample on anywhere and anytime was now standing before her and mocking her. How could she take it?

    "It seems, your wings have hardened. Your mother really needs to learn that."

    This was a disguised threat and Yue Yue could tell. All her life, she had gone through these threats. For the sake of giving her mother an easy life, she repeatedly bowed before this sister. But what was the result? Nothing!

    Seeing indifference in Yue Yue''s eyes as if her words didn''t even matter, Yue Lan felt something was amiss. It seemed her words had no effect on Yue Yue which meant she lost control over Yue Yue which she always took pride in. How was that eptable? She wanted to pounce on Yue Yue and scratched that face didn''t lose it''s beauty even after all these years.

    It made the hatred within her burn even hotter.

    It reminded her how she lost control over her own husband and her own son as well. All because of this bitch! She was really mad and wanted to do something. She forgot where she was stepped up to get close to Yue Yue.

    But before she could, someone appeared and stood in front of Mu Chenyan and Yue Yue.

    Looking at the man who stood before her, Yue Lan was shocked.

    "It seems Mrs. Hu doesn''t need her membership rights," said Xia Zhaozily making the woman who was standing behind Yue Lan all this time, to shudder in fear. "Then there is no need for the Hu family to get involved in our businesses."

    "Master Zhao," Yue Lan opened her mouth and called out softly.

    "Do I know you?" asked Xia Zhao. "I don''t think your name is written on our invitation list."

    Yue Lan was seething in rage because she couldn''t argue with Xia Zhao. She might not be familiar with Mu Chenyan''s power but she knew a thing or two about Xia Zhao who was known as a mysterious person. Even in the capital''s hidden families, no one dared to offend him. But she was even madder because he was standing up to protect Yue Yue whom she hated the most in her life.

    "Then how is she on the invitation list?" she pointed at Yue Yue with a crazed look in her eyes.

    Xia Zhao gave her azy look, "Yue Yue doesn''t need an invitation."

 Chapter 975: You Have No Idea

    Chapter 975: You Have No IdeaYue Lan was left unable to speak before him. His eyes gave off a very dangerous feeling. The people behind this auction house weren''t someone she could afford to offend and Xia Zhao happened to hold thergest number of shares in this auction house. If he said Yue Yue didn''t need an invitation then she didn''t need it at all.

    She snorted, "You''ve learned to use your beauty to hook up with people in power. I never thought you''d stoop this low."

    Xia Zhao''s jaw tightened as he stared down at her and he called out, "Mrs. Hu, would you like to tell me who you brought with you?"

    Mrs. Hu mustered up her courage and told him, "This is Ms. Yue Lan. She is our party member."

    Xia Zhao looked at Yue Lan, "Oh, then I think our government doesn''t need people like her. There is no need for her to receive the ticket for theing elections."

    Yue Lan gave him a disbelieving look as he raised his hand and said, "Invite these people out. Don''t let me see them again."

    Soon, security came to invite them out. Although they looked polite when ''inviting'' them out of there, it was actually a clear p in their faces since technically, they were being thrown out of the most prestigious auction houses in the country. They didn''t only have branches in one city but all over the country. And being thrown out of one branch meant, they had no right to enter any other branch ever again.

    Once it quietened down, Xia Zhao turned to Yue Yue who was looking at him with sparkling eyes and even gave him a thumbs up, ''You''re very powerful!''

    Xia Zhao found it quite funny but didn''t smile when he noticed the displeasure on Mu Chenyan''s face. "What''s wrong, Yan Zi?"

    "I can deal with her," said Mu Chenyan. "We didn''t need your help."

    "Who said I was helping you?" he questioned in return. "I don''t like troublemakers. I can''t let them ruin my business now, can I?"

    Mu Chenyan snorted in response and he didn''t pay attention to her. Instead, he looked at Yue Yue, "So, shall we go out for the meal?"

    Yue Yue looked at Mu Chenyan before she nodded her head and mouthed, ''Let''s go.''

    "Yan Zi, do you want to join us?" asked Xia Zhao.

    Mu Chenyan squinted her eyes at him before saying, "Or else? Am I gonna let you take my girlfriend alone? Do you think I trust you that much?"

    Xia Zhao nodded his head, "I know. I know that you don''t trust me that much." He turned to walk out saying, "Let''s go then before the sun goes down."

    Yue Yue pinched Mu Chenyan''s arm, ''Can''t you talk nicely for once? Why do you keep trying to hurt him?''

    Mu Chenyan looked confused, "When did I? I''m definitely not trying to hurt him. You''re thinking too much."

    They went to get their car when Xia Zhao found Xin Zimen trying to put Xiu into the car but that girl was really stubborn. She ran around the parking space in circles and refused to budge.

    "Littless, you better get here before I get mad!"

    Xiu looked at her father, "You can''t get mad at me, Ah-Xin!"

    Xin Zimen rubbed his forehead, "And that''s what you''re taking advantage of?"

    "When someone is letting you take advantage, you should take it. No need to be shy about it. You know, if my mum hadn''t taken advantage of you, you won''t have three kids!"

    Xia Zhao touched his nose when he saw this and asked raising his voice, "Brother Zi, do you need help?"

    Xin Zimen looked over at Xia Zhao and sighed, "Can you help me get her into the car?"

    "Xiu, how about you listen to your dad," said Xia Zhao as he faced Xiu. "I''ll send you a package of white wine made with my n''s secret recipe. It''s a treasure you can''t miss out on."

    "Is it tasty?" asked Xiu.

    "Oh, you''d love it," said Xia Zhao.

    She walked to him and held up her pinky finger, "Pinky promise?"

    Xia Zhao smiled at her and hooked her finger, "Pinky promise!"

    "Cross your heart," she added.

    Xia Zhao patiently made a cross on his chest and she was finally satisfied, "Uncle, I''ll believe you. I have faith in you." And they watched her getting into the car obediently and she even strapped her own seat belt like a goodw-abiding citizen. "Daddy, I''m sleepy."

    "Finally," muttered Xin Zimen in distress. "No wonder Regan says not to let her get drunk when he isn''t around. Only he can handle her in this state."

    "Brother Zi, I think it''s just that you''re old now," said Xia Zhao.

    "How is he old?" came Mu Chenyan''s voice from behind. Then she smiled sweetly at Xin Zimen, "Zimen Ge, I didn''t know you were here."

    "This littless wanted to see the auction," replied Xin Zimen. "I can''t stay for long. I have to take her back home because now she is sleepy."

    "Oh, go ahead," said Mu Chenyan. Xia Zhao looked at her well-behaved appearance and turned his face away. He really couldn''t see this sight of her. It burned his eyes.

    As Xin Zimen was getting in the car, the window rolled down and Xiu leaned over as she waved at Mu Chenyan, "It''s Aunt Feifei''s friend! We met the other day. Hi!"

    "Hi!" Mu Chenyan waved back at Su Feifei''s niece who waspletely different from how she met her thest time.

    "Aunt Feifei''s friend, your name is Mu Chenyan?"

    "Yes."

    Xiu looked meaningfully at Xia Zhao who cleared his throat trying to avoid her gaze.

    "Let''s see each other again when I''m sober Xiu. For now, Wine Xiu has a message for you, Uncle Zhao."

    "There is more?" asked Xia Zhao.

    "Uncle Zhao, you have a good choice!" she gave him a thumbs-up. "Me likey! Good luck!"

    "Thanks!"

    Xiu waved at them with both hands as Xin Zimen pulled her back inside and closed the window. Mu Chenyan couldn''t help saying, "She''s a handful."

    "You have no idea," said Xia Zhao.

 Chapter 976: Home-Cooked Meal

    Chapter 976: Home-Cooked MealMu Chenyan turned to him and said, "You seem to be very close to her."

    "I''ve known her for longer than you," replied Xia Zhao. "You must have met her on Rowan''s birthday but I get to see her plenty of times in a year. And yes, she is indeed a handful. Either sober or drunk, she is like a breeze of craziness. But at the same time, she is very entertaining. You can never get bored with her around."

    "She seemed very well-behaved to me,"mented Mu Chenyan.

    "You should never fall for her first impression," said Xia Zhao. Then he looked at Yue Yue and asked, "What would you like to eat? I mean do you have any favorite cuisine? We can choose the restaurant ordingly."

    ''I don''t like going to restaurants,'' was Yue Yue''s response. ''I prefer home-cooked meals.''

    She wasn''t saying to act polite but she actually had that preference for a long while now. She didn''t like going to restaurants and even when Mu Chenyan took her out, she didn''t enjoy eating out. She still feltfortable with home-cooked meals.

    "But for a home-cooked meal, I''ll have to take you to my ce," said Xia Zhao. "Would that be okay? Or I cane over to Xiang Manor to cook for you? I''m up for anything since I promise to take you a meal. Can''t go back on my words."

    ''You can cook?'' asked Yue Yue with her eager eyes blinking at him.

    "I live alone," replied Xia Zhao. "One of the survival skills of living alone is learning how to cook. I think I can cook a decent meal. So, if you won''t dislike my poor skills, I''m willing to cook for you."

    Yue Yue looked at the silent Mu Chenyan who didn''t speak between them. It was obvious that she was waiting for Yue Yue to make her own decision. No matter what she chose, Mu Chenyan would follow as always. Yue Yue shook her head at her best friend who spoiled her so much but it felt good. Today she got protected by not just her sister but also... her future brother-inw.

    Unknowingly, Xia Zhao was alreadybeled as the ''brother-inw'' in Yue Yue''s mind. It seemed he was on the right track of impressing the sister rather than Mu Chenyan.

    Thinking about it carefully, Yue Yue finally came to a conclusion, ''Then we''ll be troubling you this evening.''

    Xia Zhao understood her meaning and shook her head, "There is no trouble. You guys can follow my car."

    With this arrangement, they got inside their own cars and drove away from there.

    When they arrived at Xia Zhao''s house, Yue Yue''s eyes were stuck on the Japanese Zen-style garden. Just standing here she felt peace in her heart. She didn''t know what she was expecting but she wasn''t expecting what she saw before her eyes.

    From what she heard about him from Mu Chenyan, she thought he''d be living in some big estate but this was much simpler. Don''t get her wrong. This architectural marvel gave off a low-key luxury vibe but it still seemed to scream that he lived a very simple and clean life.

    Just look at the clean environment of his home. This rock garden was a marvel of its own.

    Stepping on the white pebbles gave off a feeling like she wasmitting a crime so she moved her feet on the pathway and didn''t dare step where she wasn''t supposed to.

    ''This is so pleasing to look at,'' Yue Yue said to Mu Chenyan who had a very strange expression on her face right now while staring at the back of Xia Zhao.

    Yue Yue didn''t care about her reaction, she was focused on the scenery around her. There was even a bamboo water fountain that was so pleasing to listen to. Just the sound of water. How could it not be pleasing?

    Opening the door, he stepped inside and invited them in with his hand.

    Yue Yue had to say, she was right. Indeed, no matter how low-key it was, this was a luxury wooden house. Even if it gave off a simplistic feel, it couldn''t hide subtle luxury within the details of everything.

    Guiding them to the lounge, he told them to sit down and asked, "What would you like to drink? Yan Zi likes Longjing tea, what about you?"

    Yue Yue gave Mu Chenyan a look before telling him, ''I''m fine with anything.''

    He nodded and went away. Soon, he came back with the tea and served it to them while Yue Yue asked, ''You don''t have any help here?''

    "No," he replied. "I like doing my own things. That''s what I was taught by my grandparents. It''s a tradition to do your own things in our family."

    ''Oh,'' Yue Yue nodded her head in understanding.

    "Is there anything you specifically want to eat or I can make anything of my choice?"

    ''Anything.''

    Xia Zhao already expected that response from Yue Yue. He already figured that Yue Yue didn''t seem to have many preferences in life. She was okay with anything. He didn''t know what to say about that.

    "Then is there anything you can''t eat? Anything you''re allergic to?"

    ''None,'' replied Yue Yue. ''You won''t ask Chenyan?''

    "I already know what she likes," replied Xia Zhao. "I don''t have to ask."

    "My preferences changed over the years," Mu Chenyan said the first thing aftering here.

    "And yet you didn''t change," was his response. "Don''t worry, I know your current preferences as well." He was about to leave when he paused and said, "It''ll take me a while to cook. You can look around if you''re bored. Yue, you seemed to like the front garden. Then you can take a look at the back garden. You might find it more pleasing."

    Yue Yue was instantly interested. She was eager to go and take a look but she didn''t think she should move around when the house owner was not around even if the house owner was her future brother-inw. Hehe!

 Chapter 977: The Oblivious One

    Chapter 977: The Oblivious One"What are you looking at me for?" asked Mu Chenyan as she noticed the way Yue Yue had been looking at her.

    Yue Yue just smiled sweetly in return.

    Mu Chenyan''s brows furrowed seeing this reaction. What was wrong with her best friend all of a sudden?

    Yue Yue drank the tea before she focused on Mu Chenyan again and came to sit beside her. ''What''s this calming smell in the air?''

    Mu Chenyan pointed toward an antique bronze incense burner as she answered, "He likes to purify the air he breathes. So, the air around him needs to be cleansed by burning the incense."

    ''I feel so mentally rxed,'' said Yue Yue. ''What''s this incense? Where can I buy it? I think I''ll be able to sleep better with it around.

    "I don''t think you''ll be able to buy it," said Mu Chenyan. "He must have made it himself. You better give up on that idea."

    ''Then I can just ask him for some,'' was Yue Yue''s response. ''I don''t think he''ll refuse me. If he does, you can ask him for some.''

    "You think he''ll give it to me?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Yue Yue gave her a knowing look, ''You and I both know he won''t refuse if you''re the one asking. Don''t argue. It''s pointless.''

    Mu Chenyan swallowed whatever she wanted to say because she knew she couldn''t argue on this point with Yue Yue. It was better not to say a word.

    While Yue Yue''s attention was wandering, Mu Chenyan''s mind was very clear. Her focus was very clear as well. She already was familiar with Xia Zhao''s clean and fine living style. But she still found it surprising that he lived an even simpler life than before. Was he practicing to be a living buddha? She couldn''t believe that. It was not his style.

    But it couldn''t be denied that this ce was truly like a hidden sanctuary.

    Unlike Yue Yue, Mu Chenyan didn''t want to tour this ce. Maybe she wasn''t curious at all. Or maybe she was just hiding from something. Whichever it was, only she''d know.

    In the end, Yue Yue dragged Mu Chenyan toward the back garden to see what it looked like. She was blown away once again. The front garden was pure zen style but the back garden was contemporary zen. They walked on the crushed limestone pathway as they looked at the rock formations. There was a clear water stream with a wood t bridge over it. A natural stone bench, rocks, shrubs mixed nting, and the water feature... Oh, the beauty.

    She felt the effect was better when she looked at this scene with the sunset in the back.

    It made a person feel like they entered a different world all alone away from the hustle and bustle of life.

    Yue Yue turned around to find Mu Chenyan and noticed that Mu Chenyan had stopped following her at some point. Currently, she stood before a Japanese maple tree with a focused look in her eyes. Yue Yue didn''t know what she wanted to see in that tree. Was anything special? She didn''t think so. It looked pretty normal to her.

    She came to Mu Chenyan''s side and tapped on her shoulder to snap her out of her reverie.

    "Huh? What is it?"

    ''What are you looking at?''

    "Umm... Nothing," Mu Chenyan shook her head. "What did you want to say?"

    ''This stream is connected to the bamboo fountain in the front garden,'' Yue Yue pointed out.

    "Yeah, I can see," said Mu Chenyan.

    Yue Yue didn''t care about her response as she went on, ''What do these rock formations represent?''

    "I don''t know," answered Mu Chenyan truthfully. "Dry gardens are the symbolic representation of the world, the established order, and nature. I know they have a very abstract character. But I don''t know much about its history or its features. I do know that is the trinity rock formation but don''t ask what it represents. I really have no clue. I heard about it but since I was uninterested, I didn''t pay attention to the lesson."

    ''So there are things that even you don''t know.''

    "I''m not omnipotent," said Mu Chenyan. "We should head inside. It''s getting dark."

    ''Okay,'' agreed Yue Yue as she walked inside with her.

    When they came inside, Xia Zhao was serving the meal on the table, "I was just about to call you two."

    ''You have a beautiful garden,''plimented Yue Yue without missing a beat. She felt like she wasn''t doing garden justice by just calling it beautiful. It definitely had more meaning but she obviously was a clueless person so she knew nothing about it. She''d just stick with being ignorant and calling it just beautiful.

    "I also think it''s beautiful," said Xia Zhao. "The designer put a lot of thought into it."

    When he said that, Mu Chenyan raised her eyes to look at him and asked, "You kept her designs?"

    "Why would I ask her to design something if I wasn''t gonna build this ce?" he asked in return. "It was herst gift to me. I had to do something with it."

    Mu Chenyan fell into deep thought but didn''t say anything. Her mood was fluctuating and Yue Yue could feel it but she couldn''t understand their conversation once again. It was really annoying to sit between two people who shared a secret while she was the ignorant one. Why did she have to be stuck here?

    Right, she asked for it herself!

    What hidden meaning she couldn''t understand was actually that thendscape garden was designed by Madam Xiang who was very fond of Japanese gardens and studied thendscapes in detail. Mu Chenyan remembered how her godmother spent months working on the design of the garden for Xia Zhao because this man asked for it.

    That''s why the moment she arrived here, her feelings were soplicated. She only had a glimpse of the designs, she never thought the blueprints turned into reality in Xia Zhao''s hands. It left quite some impact on her heart without her realizing it.

 Chapter 978: [Bonus chapter] Seen It All

    Chapter 978: [Bonus chapter] Seen It AllMu Chenyan said Xia Zhao was her enemy. She said he was annoying. She said he was unbearable.

    But what she couldn''t deny was that he scared her at times. He always caught her off guard and messed up the whole system that she couldn''t handle. So, she always built a wall ofpetition between them. She wanted to win over him. She always wanted to win but she was still the one who lost in the end.

    ''Is this a feast?'' questioned Yue Yue as she looked at the table. ''It''s only three of us. Did you have to cook so much?''

    Xia Zhao looked at the table full of dishes and felt like he really went overboard. It couldn''t be helped. This was his first time cooking for the two of them. He had to do his best.

    "It''s not much," said Xia Zhao. "I didn''t know what you''d like so I made a couple of extra dishes."

    Yue Yue''s lips twitched when she heard that. ''A couple?'' she repeated in her mind. He really forgot how to count as well. Whatever. She''ll be the magnanimous one here and let him off the hook this time. She should understand his state. She was also this excited when she thought about cooking for Zhai Kuijun and how could she not understand his feelings? She really could.

    "Take whatever you like," said Xia Zhao like a generous host. "Here are shrimp dumplings in soup. Someone sent me lotus seeds this morning, so I made lotus seed paste buns as well. You can try some beef meatballs as well. And these chicken rice rolls. This is fried taro cake and these are water chestnut cakes."

    ''What''s that?'' questioned Yue Yue as she pointed at two other dishes that were ced before Mu Chenyan.

    Xia Zhao looked at Mu Chenyan and answered, "That''s Khao Soi(Thai Coconut Curry Noodle Soup) and the other one is Laab(Spicy sd)."

    Yue Yue nodded her head in understanding, ''Chenyan likes these. I got it.''

    "Are you trying to impress me?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "I''m just trying to be a good host," replied Xia Zhao,pletely denying that he was trying to impress her. As if impressing her was easy. He''d definitely reach his grave trying to do that. He must be crazy to even try to impress her.

    "First, try to be a good person!"

    "Between the two of us, I''m still the better person."

    Mu Chenyan red at him and was about to shoot back when Yue Yue held her arm and mouthed, ''Are you five? What''s wrong with you? You really love arguing with him. What? Is that your lovenguage?''

    Mu Chenyan gaped at her and covered her mouth, "Don''t speak nonsense!"

    Yue Yue shrugged and let her be. While Mu Chenyan turned to see if Xia Zhao saw what Yue Yue said and Xia Zhao pretended to look away as if he didn''t know anything at all.

    Yue Yue pushed her hand away and picked up the chopsticks. Everything looked like a delicacy that she couldn''t bring herself to eat and ruin the aesthetic but the enchanting aroma was beckoning her. She suddenly felt like her son''s greedy soul came inside her and she picked one thing after another and felt like her soul wasforted.

    This was so delicious that she felt like shedding tears.

    "Why are you crying?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Yue Yue was shocked by that question and touched her eyes. She didn''t even realize that a tear slid down her eye. She couldn''t believe it. She was literally so happy to eat.

    ''This is so good.''

    Mu Chenyan was shocked to hear that and her face turned ugly, "You''re saying that he is a better cook than me?"

    Yue Yue wanted to nod but she felt like if she did, things won''t end well. Mu Chenyan might snap her neck right there and then. Well, Mu Chenyan won''t go that far but still, you could never be certain when it came to Mu Chenyan.

    ''I didn''t say that. It''s just that the dish reminded me of my childhood. It was a beautiful memory. It''s nostalgia that made me tear up. Yes! Nostalgia!''

    It would have been better if she didn''t give this long exnation. Seeing her making excuses, Mu Chenyan''s expression darkened.

    "Was this apetition as well?" asked Xia Zhao.

    Mu Chenyan looked at him, "Everything between us can only be apetition."

    "Why? Because you''re scared to look beyond that?"

    "Shut up!"

    "Okay."

    Yue Yue silently nodded to herself. Definitely, that was their lovenguage. It was just that she could understand signnguage but this secret lovenguage was not something she couldprehend. Rather than wasting her brain cells on that, she preferred enjoying this meal that made her tongue want to dance in joy.

    Now, she was actually understanding a little bit of Mu Chenyan''s frustration regarding him. He was good at everything to the point that he left no room for anyone else. How could she not be exasperated?

    She felt like she should feel some pity for her best friend right now.

    ''I want to see the painting that Chenyan has her eyes on.''

    Xia Zhao understood Yue Yue''s request and nodded his head, "I''ll show it to you after the meal."

    ''I can see it?''

    "Well, why not?"

    Mu Chenyan was feeling that Xia Zhao was too easygoing with Yue Yue. Was it her illusion? He was being too nice? What game was he ying? Why wasn''t she able to understand it?

    What she couldn''t understand was that Xia Zhao changed his tactic to approach her. Instead of confronting her feelings, he was trying to impress her best friend. It was just an indirect approach to get to her. Since she won''t listen to him, he hoped she''d listen to her best friend. After all, Mu Chenyan seemed quite helpless before Yue Yue.

    He never thought someone could control Mu Chenyan like this but now, he had seen it all.

 Chapter 979: Difficult To Get Mad

    Chapter 979: Difficult To Get MadRaelle walked inside the tea house and went straight to the private room she had been told about beforehand. Sliding open the door, as she stepped inside, she noticed how Song Xin''ai was about to get up but then sat back down.

    Raelle found this small movement quite interesting.

    It seemed her mother was very excited to see her but didn''t want to show it either. Hmmm... It was because she didn''t show her emotions so much that her own children found it difficult to approach her. It was like you couldn''t read what was on Song Xin''ai''s mind at all.

    "You''re here," she said.

    "Yes," replied as she took a seat before her.

    Song Xin''ai looked at the door before asking, "You came alone?"

    "Who else was I supposed toe with?" asked Raelle.

    Song Xin''ai didn''t know what to reply to that. "Right. Maybe I was thinking too much. I thought your husband would be here with you."

    "He''s outside," replied Raelle.

    And finally, Song Xin''ai had a knowing smile on her face. That''s right. That''s what she thought. Shui Xian gave her the impression that he was a bit clingy. So, she had expected that he''d have followed Raelle here.

    "You should have called him inside," said Song Xin''ai.

    "He''s having a meeting close by," answered Raelle.

    Song Xin''ai wanted to ask how she was but she also figured, Raelle won''t like that question. So, she was left hesitating.

    "I''m doing very well," said Raelle surprising Song Xin''ai who had yet even to decide whether to ask or not.

    Song Xin''ai smiled at her softly, "That''s good to know. You look like you''re doing better."

    Raelle agreed with that. She also thought she looked like she was doing better than before. The pills she took definitely had some effect that even she could perceive. Her sleep got better and so did her appetite. Shui Xian was almost going crazy from happiness when he noticed how her appetite recovered.

    No, it didn''t just recover. It got even better.

    Since they had no topics to actually hold small talk about, Song Xin''ai got to the point, "I wonder why you wanted to see me in person."

    "I have to ask you about someone," said Raelle. "Do you know Chi Xirui?"

    Song Xin''ai''s brows furrowed a little but she nodded, "She was a student of mine."

    "What do you know about her?" asked Raelle.

    Song Xin''ai was quiet for a moment as she pondered on that question of hers. What did she know about Chi Xirui? She didn''t think she knew that much but she could share whatever she knew.

    "Is there anything specific you want to know?"

    "I don''t mind anything," replied Raelle.

    "I was a visiting professor at her university when I met her. She was a very lively and friendly person. Everybody seemed to like her a lot. Her personality just appealed to people a lot. With my personality, it isn''t easy to get close to me but she still managed to be one of the students I remember and someone I looked at highly. She was meant to be an excellent doctor one day." Song Xin''ai seemed to reminiscing and Raelle didn''t interrupt as she listened carefully. "So, you can say that she was somewhat my favorite student. She didn''t mind my cold personality and kept trying to take care of me. When I asked she said, ''Professor, you look tired. I just want to help a little in my way.'' Thest time, I met her it was when she volunteered to be a doctor in a disaster area due to floods. I never saw her again. But she used to send me postcards. Then the postcards stoppeding. I thought she finally got tired of me or my cold personality froze her heart as well."

    She went silent for a moment and took a sip of the tea to moisten her throat before saying, "It was just recently I learned that she didn''t get tired of me. She was no more. It felt ufortable knowing she was no longer around."

    "What do you know about her family?" asked Raelle.

    "Nothing," replied Song Xin''ai. "There were plenty of times when I noticed how she seemed to always avoid the topic of family. I never understood why but I never asked her for the reason either. Everyone has their own difficulties. It''s not like I have a picture perfect family, why should ask about hers? It just didn''t feel right."

    "Then do you think she came from a very strong background?"

    Song Xin''ai frowned at that and shook her head, "No way. She lived such a simple life. Always running to get to her part time jobs, trying to get schrships to subsidize her expenses. She even lived in a small apartment. Even though with med school, she wasn''t supposed to have all that much time apart from studying but she still juggled around to make things work. I don''t think she had a strong background."

    Raelle didn''t ask anything else as she sat there with her hand on the tabletop and slowly, her index finger started tapping on the tabletop.

    From what she heard, Chi Xirui seemed like a normal happy-go-lucky girl. But if she was that normal why wouldn''t Anna able be able to find anything about her? It''s always the one who seem normal that are to be worried about. They couldn''t be that simple.

    All the things that Song Xin''ai said, Raelle only picked up on one useful thing. So, she asked, "The flood rescue team... When was it? Which volunteer group did she join?"

    "It was a few years back," Song Xin''ai said thoughtfully. "About 6 or 7 years ago."

    "Thank you," said Raelle.

    Song Xin''ai shook her head to show it wasn''t a big deal but she still had to ask, "Why are you asking about her? I don''t think you''re someone who''d be interested in someone for without a reason. So, what''s going on?"

    "Don''t worry, it''s nothing big," replied Raelle. "Let''s just say, I want to learn more about her."

    "But why?" asked Song Xin''ai. "Did you even know her?"

    "No," said Raelle. "It hasn''t even been a month since I first heard her name."

    Song Xin''ai was even more confused with that answer, "Then why this sudden curiosity about her?"

    "Even if I didn''t know her, that student of yours seemed to know about me," said Raelle. "So, I''m just wondering why."

    Song Xin''ai scratched her edge of the table with her fingernail lightly as she lowered her head.

    "Do you have something to tell me, mother?"

    Song Xin''ai pursed her lips and looked at her, "She had seen the pictures of my kids on my desk."

    "You have a photo of mine?"

    Song Xin''ai nodded and said, "It''s from your childhood when you won in that science fair."

    Raelle nodded her head. It was difficult to find her pictures online because her family protected her so well but it was easier for Song Xin''ai to get that photo from the organizers considering she was from the same field.

    "She said I saved her life," added Raelle on her own ord. "And someone to pay me back for saving her life. The thing is, I don''t recall saving her. Do I look like a living budhistava who''d save anyone? I don''t know how I got the hat of being a kind person. I''m just interested in knowing how and when I saved her life."

    Even Song Xin''ai fell into contemtion when she heard that.

    "Maybe you don''t remember it?" suggested Song Xin''ai but then she shook her head. "Right, that is hard to believe that you won''t remember it."

    "That''s what I thought," said Raelle. "Since I saved her life, I should know more about her. That''s why I called you to ask. Sorry for taking your time for such a small matter."

    "That''s alright," replied Song Xin''ai. "I don''t mind."

    They sat together for a while and since they had nothing personal to discuss, these two women started talking about themon interests they had in life. Who knew if it was surprising or not, but they had way too much inmon. Even if they worked inpletely different fields, they had a lot ofmon ground to discuss.

    "Are you going back to theb?" asked Raelle.

    "Yeah."

    "Why? Didn''t you say, you have a few days off?"

    "I do."

    "Then you don''t know what to do with those days off?" asked Raelle.

    Song Xin''ai didn''t deny it. "It''s been a long time since I don''t know what to do with my time off. I have nowhere to be. Maybe that''s why I spend more time in myb. At least, I have something to look forward to. I''d say it''s where I''m free."

    "Is it? I''d rather call it your cage," said Raelle. "But then again, you chose that cage for yourself."

    Song Xin''ai sighed heavily as she stared at this daughter of hers, "You... You really know how to hurt your mother. But I can''t even get mad at you for that."

    "People often find it difficult to get mad at me," was Raelle''s cheeky response that wasn''t really like her. But it made Song Xin''ai chuckle and rx around her.

 Chapter 980: [Bonus chapter] Undress

    Chapter 980: [Bonus chapter] UndressWhileing out of the tea house, Raelle called Anna and informed her of the piece of information she just learned. "You look for which volunteer group she joined. Maybe you''d be able to find any information. Also, check with her university as well."

    "Yes, Missy," answered Anna. "I''ll get to it right now."

    "Then let me know when you''re done," said Raelle before hanging up the phone.

    "Are you done?" Shui Xian asked as Raelle got in the car. Raelle nodded her head in response. "How was it?" he asked further.

    Raelle shook her head, "I didn''t find much. But I still got something."

    Shui Xian didn''t ask anymore.

    "Where do you want to go?"

    "Anywhere," she answered in response. "You can''t keep me at home all the time. I''ve already recovered."

    Shui Xian only smile and didn''t say anything. So what if she had recovered, he wasn''t willing to send her out.

    As they drove away, Shui Xian was thinking about something while Raelle also sat in silence. The person who was the clearest about Raelle''s health condition these days. He was even more attentive than Mu Chenyan.

    "Should we go shopping?" suggested Shui Xian.

    "Sure," answered Raelle. At this moment, she was willing to do anything just to stay out of the home where she was asked to stick to the bed. She was about to be one with the mattress.

    Shui Xian could tell that she was even willing to go do things that she usually found troublesome because staying at home without being able to do much was making her restless even if she couldn''t express her difort properly. He could see it all.

    Reaching the mall, he took her hand in his own and visited the outlet of Mu Chenyan and Yue Yue''s brand saying, "Let''s support the family business."

    "You want to keep the money within the family?" asked Raelle.

    "Of course," he responded. "We shouldn''t let the water flow to others'' fields."

    Raelle didn''t say anything and followed him in. In the end, he really ended up spending money on the store. Actually, they both held a card that meant they didn''t have to spend a penny on this store. How could Mu Chenyan let them do that?

    One was her favorite person and the other was her favorite son-inw, they both deserved some perks, no?

    And yet, she wouldn''t have expected this couple to not even use that card. But then again, these two were rich and had nowhere to waste their money. How could anyone stop them from spending their money?

    Only after spending money, they were happy to leave. After that, they visited other stores, and as always, at the end of their shopping spree, the one who had the most things was Shui Xian. And he picked nothing at all! It was all Raelle''s obsession with dressing him up. His wife didn''t y dress-up games in her childhood, so she was trying it at this age.

    She didn''t dress up her dolls, but she certainly enjoyed dressing up her husband.

    He even said to her, "Baby, if you had dressed up dolls, you wouldn''t have liked dressing up your husband so much."

    "Who said I liked dressing you up?" she asked in return. "I already told you, husband, I like undressing you a lot more."

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched and he sighed, "I can''t with you."

    Seeing his helpless look, Raelle seemed really satisfied. But then she said, "Shouldn''t you be happy about this though?"

    Shui Xian nodded, "Oh, I''m exhrated to hear you say that."

    "Then when can I undress you?" she asked out of nowhere making Shui Xian cough and he looked around to see if anyone was around to hear their conversation. His wife was truly fond of dropping bombs anywhere and anytime. He really thought he couldn''tpletely get used to her style of doing things like this.

    "Anytime you want?" he replied feeling really helpless.

    "How about now?" she asked as she pulled him to the changing room while he was left empty-headed.

    As she pushed him against the door of the changing room, Shui Xian finally woke up from his nk state and gaped at her, "Sweetheart, do you have to do this?"

    Raelle nodded her head, "I do. You keep treating me like fragile goods. I need to remind you that I''m still the same Raelle Xiang. Do you think if you''d be considerate, I''d be happy?" Her hand was ced on his chest as she looked into his eyes, "What? You don''t want to touch me anymore?"

    "You''re sick," he replied. "How can I even think about anything else at that time?"

    "But now, I''m fine," she reminded him again. "Why are you still being so civil? Are you scared?"

    "I am," he replied honestly.

    "I told you it wasn''t your mistake," said Raelle.

    "I know but... I don''t know. I just think we both need time to recover from this incident. Mentally."

    "Are you asking a meat lover to be vegetarian all of a sudden? Aren''t you expecting too much?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian stared at her wide-eyed as he tried to hold back hisughter. She and her way of talking were bing more and more entric.

    "Baby, calm down."

    "Which part of me tells you that I''m not calm?"

    "Your nails are digging into my skin," he pointed out and Raelle removed her hand from his chest.

    Shui Xian chuckled at her. He held her hand and ced it back on his chest as he said, "You''re my lifeline. I can''t imagine seeing you hurting again."

    "Aren''t hurting me now?" she asked. "You''re refusing to give me my right! As your legal wife, I have the right to your body. How dare you refuse me to give me, your body!"

    Shui Xianughed and kissed her forehead, "Silly. Who can refuse to give you anything? But this is not the ce for this discussion."

    "People don''te to changing rooms for discussions," said Raelle. "I know it too. Don''t think I don''t know what they do in here."

    Shui Xian rubbed her head, "Let''s go!"

    "No," she refused. "I''m not done yet."

    "What else?"

    "I haven''t undressed you yet," she said inly.

    Shui Xian rubbed his temples. She was still stuck on that. "It''s just undressing, what''s so difficult about that? Do you think I haven''t seen you naked before?"

 Chapter 981: Love Is You

    Chapter 981: Love Is YouShui Xian pulled her into his arms and captured her lips with his own. After a deep kiss, he looked at her face and said, "We can do the undressing at home. I really don''t wanna do it here."

    "Fine," she agreed this time. "We could have negotiated in this way from the start and wouldn''t have wasted so much time here."

    Shui Xian gave her a look and said, "Right. It''s my fault. I haven''t learned the art of negotiation yet."

    "Then stay with me," she said. "I''ll make you invincible!"

    He intertwined her fingers with his as he said, "Oh, I''m staying. I''m staying until you get sick and tired of me."

    "That won''t happen," she replied.

    "It means I''ll follow you to the next life and continue to stick with you."

    He happily left the changing room with hers and took her around the mall. They ate something light for lunch before he suggested watching a movie and she agreed.

    "Which one do you want to watch?" he asked her as they stood before the cinema.

    Raelle looked at the posters of the movies ying and said, "Anything you want."

    "Then that one?" he pointed towards a romanticedy and she carelessly agreed. She really didn''t care what they were gonna watch.

    Shui Xian bought the tickets and since it wasn''t yet time to enter, they sat together to wait. "How about we go to a water-themed park next time?" suggested Shui Xian. "It''ll be fun in the summers."

    "Okay," she agreed again. If anyone saw, they''d think she was particrly agreeable today.

    "We can go traveling as well," he added.

    "When?"

    "Anytime you want," he replied. "I just want you to rx. I know you''re fine. But there is nothing wrong with enjoying yourself while you can. We do enough work already. Besides, what are we gonna do with all this money?"

    "We can burn it."

    Her response earned her a look from Shui Xian.

    "What? You asked what we can do with all that money. Isn''t burning an option?"

    "It''s not even funny," he said. "Don''t try to joke, it doesn''t suit you."

    "Tsk. Now, my husband can''t even take my jokes. Oh, poor me!"

    Shui Xian almost fell down from the chair because of her reaction and was shocked.

    "Baby, what the hell?"

    "What? You''re acting shocked as if I really burned the money."

    "I might not even be this surprised if you really burned the money," he replied. "But I am very shocked right now. When did you start talking like this? Are you learning to be dramatic from Fai now?"

    "I''ve seen him do this act for so long, I think I picked up some talent."

    "Raelle, baby, I love you. I really do but trust me, you don''t have a talent in this field. Please, don''t do it again."

    "I don''t have a talent?" she asked. "What a shame! I thought I''d be better at it than Hyson."

    "No, some things are only suited for specific people. For instance, this act suits Hyson. It doesn''t feel out of ce when he does it but when you do it, it''s a different story."

    Raelle listened to him and decided to really drop this act. It really wasn''t her talent. She should ept her shorings like a mature person. Only childish people would insist otherwise.

    "We can enter now, let''s go," said Shui Xian and took her inside the dark cinema.

    They found their couple seats and sat together. Shui Xian ced the popcorn and drinks between them as he sat down. The movie was just as he had expected, it was lovely, it was funny, and it made you shed a few tears as well. It was aplete package and he was enjoying it quite a bit.

    Raelle on the other hand wasn''t so certain. She hugged Shui Xian''s arm and put her head on his shoulder as she watched the movie. It was obvious that she wasn''t enjoying the movie but then again, she was only there for thepany. The movie was never her concern. Why else would she carelessly agree to watch this movie?

    It wasn''t her genre anyway.

    If one asked Raelle what left the most impression on her from the movie, she''d say, it was that one dialogue when the male lead stood before the female lead and said, ''Love was just a word until you walked into my life and gave it a meaning that I never knew was possible.''

    That dialogue made Raelle look at Shui Xian and for the rest of the time, she was left just staring at her husband instead of watching the movie. Shui Xian didn''t know what she was looking at but he let her be.

    "Are you not enjoying the movie?" he asked in a lowered voice. "We can leave if you want."

    Raelle shook her head, "You continue to watch. I''m enjoying myself."

    Shui Xian didn''t ask what she meant and continued to watch the movie. It was only after the ending that he asked what she meant and she replied, "You''re enjoying the movie, I was enjoying looking at you. We have our own priorities and preferences in life."

    Shui Xian almost rolled his eyes at her but could onlyugh helplessly. She was on a mission to mess up his mind today. That''s for sure!

    "But I did like the movie," she told him. "At least, it made me realize something."

    "What?"

    "That love might be a word for me before but now, it''s associated with with you. Love is Shui Xian to Raelle. And that''s the only meaning of love that I need in life."

    Shui Xian''s heart jumped at her words. He had to calm down his heart. How could he be foolish enough to not get used to the fact that his wife was a smooth flirt even without trying. Something was bound to go wrong with his heart with a wife like him around.

 Chapter 982: Its A Proposal?

    Chapter 982: It''s A Proposal?This sudden promation of love brought indescribable happiness to Shui Xian. Wasn''t that a promation of love? If that wasn''t, then he didn''t know what else was.

    He was so taken aback by this that he had no words. No words at all.

    It wasn''t just an ''I love you'' from her. That phrase was nothing before what she just said.

    For a long time already, he hade to peace with the fact that he couldn''t expect his wife to be the same as others. He was ready to not hear that she loved him. Even if he could feel it, it was entirely different when she said it. It held some different emotions when she said it.

    Shui Xian held up his hands to cover his face as he didn''t dare look into her eyes. He wasn''t able to do so. He felt like he''d get greedier if he did look into her eyes right now. Besides, he was so beyond himself right now with joy and really wasn''t sure what to say right now or what to do.

    What do people do when their wives express their love for them?

    "Are you crying?" asked Raelle when she saw him hiding his face from her.

    "No," he replied, even though right now a sheen of moisture could be seen in his eyes. Who asked him to love her so much? Wouldn''t it be normal for a husband to hear his wife saying she loved him? But it felt so foreign to him.

    He couldn''t believe she managed to make him even more of an emotional mess than he already was. This didn''t suit his image in the corporate world. If any one saw him being this emotional, he''d really lose face.

    "Why aren''t you looking at me right now then?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian took a deep breath and lowered his hands to look at her. Only then did Raelle see the happiness that seemed to be spilling from all over him. His smile looked even more attractive than usual.

    "Who are you trying to impress with that smile?"

    "Are you impressed?" he asked in return.

    "Me? I fell for it the very first time I saw it," was her honest response.

    Shui Xian chuckled as he was reminded of that time when she so bluntly told him that she liked his smile and he should smile more. And he, being a sucker for her actually listened to her. Even though he hadn''t fallen in love with her back then.

    "Then why do you forget that I said, all my smiles belong to you," he said as he gazed at her lovingly.

    Standing outside the cinema, having this conversation. Shui Xian really didn''t think it was a right ce for this at all.

    "Are you touched by what I said?" she asked. "But didn''t you already know that you''re very special and very important to me?"

    "Knowing that is different than hearing you say that you love me," he answered.

    "Do you wanna get more touched?" she asked out of nowhere and Shui Xian raised his brow at her. He didn''t think she''d say something casually. There was definitely some context behind this question that he wasn''t aware of. But did it matter?

    ording to Master Xian, it didn''t matter at all!

    "What are you up to?"

    Raelle pulled out a bouquet of tissue papers??? What the hell! Those were really tissue papers rolled into flowers and made a small bouquet she held it up to him and got on her one knee before him startling Shui Xian.

    This scene. Something was wrong here. Something was seriously wrong here but he couldn''t help the smile widening on his face.

    "The movie taught me something else too," she started. "It said, if you found your meaning of love, you should do everything possible to make that person yours and stay together. My love''s meaning is you so I want to spend my life with you, Xian. Will you marry me?"

    He couldn''t believe it right now. What was wrong today? Why did she suddenly be so expressive with her feelings without a warning? It was really too much for his heart to take in. But even if he died right now, he thought it''d be worth it.

    "Raelle, we are already married," he reminded her with tears shining in his eyes and a smile on his face. It was a strangebination but it expressed his feelings very well. "We already promised to spend our lives together. Remember?"

    "I remember," she replied. "But that was out of loyalty. I''m a verymitted person. When I decided tomit to you, a promise of a lifetime meant a lifetime. That wouldn''t change. However, now the situation is different. Back then it was loyalty but this time, it''s because I really want to spend my life with you. It''s because I guess, I really do love you, Shui Xian. I never thought I''d say this in my life but as someone said, life is full of uncertainties. See? Here I am, really saying the word love that I thought had nothing to do with me." She held his hand and continued to hold his gaze as she went on, "I don''t know if my definition of love matches yours or not, but I can assure you, my feelings might not be worse than yours are for me."

    Shui Xian''s tears really fell this time and he pulled her up into his arms, hugging her tightly as he buried his face into her neck, breathing in her scent to remind himself that this was real.

    "You''re gonna be the death of me," he said as his hot breath caressed her skin.

    "Why don''t you make me the reason for your living instead?" she suggested with a serious face and Shui Xian stilled.

    Then his arms tightened around her as he whispered, "You really think you already aren''t the reason why I look forward to life?"

 Chapter 983: [Bonus chapter] Shining Together

    Chapter 983: [Bonus chapter] Shining TogetherShui Xian held her face in his hands and looked into her eyes as she said, "I told you, you''re the reason for my smiles. You''re the reason I started nning life but every n includes you. How can I not want to spend my life with you?"

    "So, is that a yes?" she asked as she wiped his tears with her thumb pads.

    Shui Xian held her hand against his cheek and kissed the palm of her hand as he said, "Is there any doubt? And do I even have a choice here?"

    "You don''t," she chose to make that clear right then and there. "I was willing to let you go if you felt like we weren''t good together. I meant it when I proposed that. Now, the situation has changed. You can only be mine, whether you like it or not."

    Shui Xian chuckled at her words, "Baby, are you signifying your sovereignty?"

    "Is something wrong with that?" she asked in return.

    Shui Xian kissed her forehead, "Your possessiveness is getting worse."

    "So what?"

    "Nothing," he replied. "I just find it very cute."

    "Do you like the bouquet?" she asked when she saw him holding that bouquet made of rolled tissues with such an affectionate gaze.

    "I love it," was his reply.

    "I had no ring," she said. "Had to improvise. Let''s do it again with a ring."

    "Don''t you think I should be the one getting on my knee?"

    "It''s always you who amodates ording to my preferences, I don''t mind getting on my knee for you. It''s worth it. See? I got myself a handsome husband by just getting on my knee!"

    Shui Xian burst outughing as he pushed her hair back behind her ears, "This husband was already yours."

    "Right. Mine." She held the cor of his shirt and pulled him down as she kissed his lips and spoke against his lips, "I should keep marking what is mine."

    Shui Xian''s heart was overworked today by all these ups and downs. Even rollercoaster rides weren''t as exciting as this day had be for him.

    "I think this wasn''t the ideal ce for this proposal,"mented Raelle.

    "You think?" he questioned with a smile as he shook his head. "But it doesn''t matter. The ce doesn''t matter. The moment mattered. And trust me, this is gonna be at the top of my list of most memorable moments in my life. It really knocked off the previously crowned moment."

    "What was it?" she asked.

    "Oh, it was when we had coffee together after buying our wedding rings," he replied to her. "You threw me off my high horse and fed me some bitter pills. I can''t believe it''s still the most memorable moment in my life even though all you did was hurting my feelings."

    "That wasn''t the intention," she said in her defense.

    "It never is." He hugged her waist as she wrapped her arms around his waist. They kept looking at each other right there without saying anything. "Raelle."

    "Hm?"

    "I love you!"

    "I know," she replied as usual. "Lucky for you that I think the feeling is mutual."

    Shui Xian''s happiness burst out. He leaned his forehead against hers and closed his eyes with a sigh of relief. It was like he set something free. Something was lifted off of his shoulders and now, he could breathe again.

    "I am not as good with words as you are," he said. "So, I can only say I love you so crudely. But I still think I have something to say... ''I am a cloud in the sky, casting random shadow in your mind; you need not startle, not take delight, for I''d forthwith vanish out of your sight. You and I met at sea in the darkness of night, you have your destination, I have mine. Maybe you remember, though it''d be best if you could forget, we glowed as our paths crossed and brightly shined.''"

    "By Chance by Xu Zhi Mo," said Raelle the name of the poem he just recited making his smile brighten.

    "I am d for once that mother spent so much effort working on making me memorize so many poems," he said. "I feel like an intellectual."

    "No, you don''t," she said bursting his bubble.

    "Wifey, you can''t do that," he said in a slightly wronged tone. "You''re not supposed to hurt your husband like this."

    "What I mean is, you don''t have to find the right words to say," she started. "No, you don''t have to say anything. I can hear see your heart clearly through your eyes."

    Shui Xian touched his eyes, "My eyes have started speaking to you?"

    "They had been speaking from the beginning," she told him.

    Shui Xian smiled helplessly before saying, "It''s not that I wanted to act knowledgable. The reason why I thought of that poem is simple. It said, two people with different destinations had an unexpected encounter in the darkness of the night. But as their paths crossed, they shone brightly. I feel like I shine brighter when you''re standing beside me. I didn''t know what destination I had before you entered my life, but you made sure to tell me that whichever destination it is, we''re getting there together."

    "I thought you said you''re not good with words," shemented.

    "I know, right?"

    This wasn''t the voice of Shui Xian or Raelle. Where did this voicee from?

    Both of them turned and saw four teenage girls standing not so far from them and looking at them with tears in their eyes. But they also were smiling foolishly.

    Raelle couldn''t understand this situation.

    One of the girls'' smacked the head of the tallest girl in the group and reprimanded her, "Who asked you to speak that out loud? You ruined their moment!"

    The tall girl rubbed her head and wiped her tears as she said, "But they are so beautiful together. And so is their love. I can''t help it."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips as he realized that their whole proposal actually had an audience they didn''t know about. Not that he minded and neither was he embarrassed about it. He was standing with his wife. Why should he feel shy or embarrassed? Even his wife didn''t know the meaning of those two words.

    One of the girls suddenly stepped up and came to their side. She couldn''t bring herself to meet Raelle''s nk eyes but she found it easier to face Shui Xian''s approachable and gentle eyes. She thought, ''This Jiejie is fierce but Gege is really sweet. They definitely are meant to be.''

    She mustered up her courage and said, "Jiejie, Gege, I wish you both a happy life together. May you spend a lifetime together in happiness and bliss. I thought the love in that movie was really fake but seeing you both right after watching that movie, I realized that I was wrong. Beautiful love does exist. And so does a beautiful couple like you."

    This was very unexpected to both Shui Xian and Raelle. They never had been in a situation like this before.

 Chapter 984: Flexible

    Chapter 984: FlexibleJust hearing that they were a beautiful couple was enough for Shui Xian to be gentler to the girl. He found it quite amusing how he was receiving such wishes from aplete stranger and that too with such an earnest expression.

    "I also think we make a beautiful couple," said Shui Xian yfully.

    Raelle looked at him but didn''t say anything. Meanwhile, the girl before him was first surprised but then she smiled widely at his words and nodded, "There is no doubt about that."

    The other three girls who were still standing at their original spot also mustered up their courage ande over when they saw how easy it was to talk to Shui Xian. But Raelle definitely didn''t seem easy to them so they focused on Shui Xian instead.

    "Gege, you said you''re not good with words but we don''t agree," said the tall girl. "You''re very good with words. You''re not giving yourself enough credit here. You managed to make this gorgeous Jiejie get on her knee before you, you should have some more faith in yourself. Not just anyone is capable of getting a girl on her knee."

    "Gege is awesome!" they all gave him a thumbs-up making Shui Xian didn''t know how to react. Why was he suddenly beingplimented so much? He didn''t even do anything.

    Shui Xian smiled at them and asked, "You all are in high school?"

    "Yes," replied the girls.

    "Then you should be focused on studying," this came from Raelle surprising everyone since she had been silent all this while. "Do you think it''s the time when you should be thinking about love?"

    "Jiejie, you''re fierce."

    "Really? I think my wife is pretty adorable," said Shui Xian.

    "Tsk. Gege is whipped," said one of the girls. "But then indeed, when in love you only see things the way you want to. I can''t me you for that, Gege."

    "Jiejie, even though you''re a bit fierce, I do agree with Gege. You''re very adorable. I can say this after seeing the way you proposed. I have never seen someone do it this way. I can feel the love radiating even through the photo."

    "Photo? What photo?" asked Shui Xian.

    The girl bit her tongue before she showed him the photos she clicked with the camera that she wore around her neck.

    "I''m sorry, it''s not every day that we get to see such a beautiful couple so I couldn''t help it. It''s a habit of mine to capture beautiful scenes." How was she supposed to exin that the scene of them standing together was just too pleasing and her inner photographer couldn''t help.

    Shui Xian took the camera and saw the photos with Raelle. He was actually impressed as he said, "You''re good at it. I like this one. What about you, baby?"

    Raelle looked back at him, "Is that the point here?"

    Shui Xian sighed and said to the girl, "You''re not supposed to click photos of people without permission."

    "I''m really sorry," the girl sincerely apologized and Shui Xian couldn''t bear to say anything else. Especially since he really liked the photos and realized that it had a special meaning to have this moment captured in photos. One day, he''d be able to show off to their kid at how it was his wife who proposed to him.

    "I can send these photos to you," suggested the girl. "We even have a video. I think you''d like to keep this memory. Don''t you think, Gege?"

    Shui Xian realized that these girls weren''t as innocent as he thought. They knew how to get him.

    "Fine, fine. Just send these things to me," said Shui Xian.

    "Gege is so kind."

    "Don''t tter me," said Shui Xian.

    "But Gege can we keep a couple of photos?" asked another girl. "Our friend here, Luoluo likes to take pictures and she uploads them on her weibo to share with her fans. Can we share your pictures? If you refuse, we won''t do it."

    Shui Xian first looked at his wife and when he saw that Raelle didn''t refuse, he nodded in agreement, "Okay. You can do it. Although I can''t understand why you''d want to do that."

    It''s not like it would harm him. Besides, it was just uploading it on this student''s weibo. He didn''t think it''d have any effect on his life. But oh boy was he wrong about that. He was about to find out that people like them, no matter how low-key would always attract attention.

    Then the girls even wanted to take photos with them as if they were standing with celebrities and wanted to keep this memory. Shui Xian treated them all to bubble tea and they happily parted ways from there.

    He held Raelle''s hand as he asked, "Is it just me or you really went along with this troublesome encounter?"

    "They said we are a perfect match. And they wished us to be together for life," said Raelle. "Just for these sincere wishes alone, I can adjust my tolerance to bear with troublesome matters."

    Shui Xian nodded, "You''re very flexible these days."

    "If you won''t bend, you''ll break," she said. "There is no harm in bending."

    "What a marvelous thought, sweetheart!"

    "You know allowing them to upload the photos can really be troublesome for us."

    "Why? Are you scared, wifey?"

    "No," answered Raelle. "I just have to gives a heads-up to my PR team. You should do it too."

    Shui Xian didn''t take it seriously but he still listened to his wife and decided to contact his PR team after going back.

    "You won''t ask why I allowed it though?"

    "I know already," replied Raelle. "It''s written on your face that you want to scream to the whole world right now that I said I love you."

    Shui Xian touched his face, "Is it really that obvious?" She nodded in response. "So, you didn''t refuse because you could tell I wanted to share?"

    "If it makes you happy, I don''t mind," was her answer.

    As always the words were the same but the effect of these words on his heart hadn''t changed even after all this time. She was willing to do something so unlike herself all the time just to make him happy. How could it not touch his heart everytime? He really couldn''t take it for granted.

 Chapter 985: [Bonus chapter] A Slap

    Chapter 985: [Bonus chapter] A p"Yue Lan!" Elder Yue''s voice boomed inside the house as soon as he entered. "Yue Lan!"

    "Father, what are you shouting for?" came Yue Lan''s voice as she yawned while descending the stairs. She was still wearing her nightgown and didn''t feel the need to dress properly beforeing to see her father. "I haven''t gone deaf yet. You can stop shouting."

    Elder Yue was driven mad from anger because of this daughter and wanted to p her right now. He controlled himself and said, "What did you do this time?"

    "What did I do?" asked Yue Lan looking confused.

    "I''ve spent all my like building a reputation and within a few months, you managed to ruin everything? Why am I receiving calls from the party that you won''t be getting the ticket for elections? And there is also news that party leaders aren''t happy with you and might even throw you out!"

    Yue Lan was instantly awake when she heard that and looked really shocked. She suddenly recalled what Xia Zhao had said to her at the auction house but she hadn''t taken those words seriously at that time. Because in her subconscious mind, she believed no one would go that far just for Yue Yue.

    But it seemed she was wrong. That bitch was still a pain in the ass!

    "No! They can''t do this!" she shouted. "I have been working so hard and diligently. How can they just decide to take my right away?"

    "Shouldn''t you be asking yourself what you did? I have spent all my life with those people and I don''t believe they are unreasonable enough to take away your authority without a reason," said Elder Yue. "Are you trying to ruin our Yue family''s name?"

    "Is it me?!" Yue Lan stared at her father. "It''s all because of you and her!" She pointed at Madam Yue who came out after hearing the loud voices of the father and son. She was startled when Yue Lan pointed at her. "If you both hadn''t given birth to that bitch, would I have been in this situation? Why didn''t she just die out there and had toe back to ruin my life all over again?"

    Madam Yue stepped up tofort her as she asked gently, "Ah-Lan, what are you talking about?"

    Yue Lan pushed her away making her stagger and if she hadn''t held the couch, she''d have fallen down right there. Yue Lan gave her a disgusting look as she said, "It''s all your fault. Who asked you seduce my father? Who are you give birth to that bitch? Even after all these years, she is against me? How can she ruin my life like this every time? Wasn''t it enough when she slept with my husband and pushed my son away from me?"

    Elder Yue stepped up and really ended up pping Yue Lan leaving her shell shocked at that moment. She had never been pped before in her life. No one had ever done this to her. Elder Yue wanted to take his cane to beat her but Madam Yue stepped between them to stop him.

    "Master, don''t do it."

    Elder Yue gave her a disappointed look, "Don''t do it? If you had let me beat her once in all these years, I wouldn''t be so helpless today? Who the hell are you calling a bitch here? Who are you cursing to die? Yue Yue is also my daughter! Isn''t it enough for you to throw her out of this family? What more do you want? You really want her life? What will it get you? Even after sending her away? What did you do? You''re the one who traumatized your son and pushed him away. You''re the one who managed to driven a patient person like Zhai Kuijun to his limits. It isn''t anyone''s fault but your own!"

    Yue Lan ced her hand against her cheek where she was pped at looked at her father with hatred, "Grandmother was right. You''d always be on that bastard child''s side."

    "She isn''t a bastard child! And she never tried to steal anything from you! It''s you who took everything from her."

    "From the way you''re acting, it seems you already met her," said Yue Lan. "No wonder you''ve been giving me those looks these days. So what? Did she cry to you how I wronged her and bullied her? Did you buy her act? Whose father are you? Don''t forget that only I have the right on this family. She won''t be allowed to enter this family again."

    "She doesn''t want to either," said Elder Yue. "You pushed her too far. Now, she doesn''t care where we stand."

    Yue Lan snorted at that and held Madam Yue''s arm as she dragged her out the door saying, "You go. Get out. Go to your daughter and tell her to fix everything or I''ll ruin everything she loves. Also, tell her I won''t let you inside this house if she didn''t do as I said!"

    Madam Yue''s tears fell down as her body felt like it was drained of energy. She was suddenly reminded of the indifference with which Yue Yue looked at her. Those eyes clearly told her that she had no ce in Yue Yue''s heart anymore. Even if she cried or begged, she didn''t think her daughter will listen. Not like she deserved it.

    She spent her whole life paying back a favor by loving Yue Lan at the expense of even abandoning her own daughter. But even after years, she was standing at the same ce where she was nothing to Yue Lan. She was so easily disposable.

    "In this house, I''m still alive!" said Elder Yue. "Who are you to throw her out of this house? She is my wife. You have no right to order her around. You are the one who ruined your own life, fix it yourself. I don''t know how Yue Yue is involved in this matter but I''m very d if she is the one who gave you this p in the face. Take it as a reminder that the world doesn''t revolve around you. You might have ruled for all these years, but Yue Yue isn''t someone you can touch anymore."

    With that, he held Madam Yue and took her inside leaving Yue Lan raging there as she smashed everything around her to vent her anger.

 Chapter 986: Not The Right One

    Chapter 986: Not The Right One"Fai! Oi!"

    Hyson opened his eyes and looked at He Rou, "What is it, sister-inw?"

    He Rou instantly looked around to see if anyone was around to hear him calling her ''sister-inw'' so naturally. She only rxed when she noticed that they were alone. Even if they were alone, she couldn''t let her guard down. In this industry, it was challenging to keep secrets.

    She pulled a chair and sat beside him as she said, "You seem very dedicated these days."

    "Haven''t I always been very dedicated?"

    He Rou gave him a look, "No, it''s different this time around. You seem to be putting too much effort as if you want to finish the work here as fast as possible. What''s the hurry? Are you in a hurry to get to your best friend''s wedding?"

    Hyson turned his head to look at her, "How do you know about my best friend''s wedding?"

    "The whole country knows," replied He Rou. "You..." She narrowed her eyes at him and sighed, "You should really keep up with the trending news on Weibo."

    Hyson frowned and immediately took out his phone. He logged in to his ount and checked the trending list. His eyes widened when he saw at least 5 headlines rted to Raelle and Shui Xian.

    "What did you do this time?" he muttered before he clicked to read.

    He was taken aback to see the photos that appeared before him and his brows raised up in surprise. Oh. This was unexpected.

    He looked at the photo where Raelle was on one knee as she looked up at Shui Xian. There was a bouquet of tissues in her hand which made him chuckle. Suddenly, his smile widened when he realized the meaning behind the photo.

    The matter startedst night when a fairly popr ount of a street photographer uploaded these clicks as she stated how she found this beautiful couple after watching the movie and couldn''t help capturing their beautiful moment. At first, thements were about how romantic it seemed and how the protagonists of the photo had a high beauty index.

    Butter in the night, the trend changed when someone raised the question of whether the people in the photo were Raelle Xiang and Shui Xian. As if thework blew up, the whole incident caught on fire. It didn''t take long for people to confirm that indeed, it was Raelle and Shui Xian. The same couple who caused quite a stir when they appeared on the red carpet togetherst time.

    At that time, there were spections about their rtionship. But now, it seemed the couple was moving faster than anyone else. There was already a proposal and the proposal was actually done by Raelle Xiang.

    "Your best friend''s impact is big," said He Rou. "I don''t know why she always shes with me though. My new advertisement was supposed to go live today but mypany halted it. Currently, whoever tried to take the limelight from Raelle Xiang would be asking for a face p. After all, even if she isn''t a celebrity, she seemed to be quite more appealing to the general public."

    "It''s because she always kept a mysterious image," said Hyson.

    "Are you surprised?"

    Hyson shook his head, "Not really. Anything Ellie does isn''t that surprising. She is a person who likes doing things out of the box. She had been book-smart all her life. It''s just interesting to see that she had learned the ropes of interpersonal rtionships now. The happiest person right now would be Xian Ge."

    "This is gonna have quite some impact on the corporate world,"mented He Rou. "That''s what my grandfather said as well. After all, both of them aren''t someone to mess with. It was already creating a huge stir when their dating news came out. Now that they are ready to announce their wedding, it''s gonna shake the hierarchy of power." Then she sighed heavily, "No matter what, I never thought I''d admire Raelle Xiang to this level. She really didn''t hesitate to propose."

    "Are you admiring her or feeling envious?"

    He Rou red at him for actually seeing through her. Okay, she was envious. Who can me her? She wasn''t even allowed to date her boyfriend in the open and had to keep it under covers. It felt like she was having an affair or something.

    "Don''t be so envious. You and she are different. Public opinion has no effect on Raelle''s mental health or her career. Nothing can deter her. That''s why she rarely thinks about the consequences when doing things. She is someone who is allowed to live freely. You can''t. You chose this path where freedom is dependent on how epting your fans are of your behavior. Because it''s true that people like us are who we are because of fans. So, their opinions can make our careers and break it too."

    He Rou looked at him deeply before saying, "I might retire after filming this movie."

    "Huh?" Hyson was dumbfounded to hear that. Where did thate from?

    "You know, originally, I entered the entertainment industry to be a little close to Zi Hong. I wanted to understand his passion by entering his world. I was just following him. In the end, I did fall in love with acting. However, I realized just recently that I still love Zi Hong a lot more than acting. I don''t want to keep feeling so restricted. It took me years to chase him. I want to date him freely and marry him."

    Hyson was surprised to hear this.

    "What if Zi Hong Ge doesn''t want you to abandon your career?"

    "This is the path he showed me. I loved walking on it until now. I have already been at the top. I''m not that ambitious to want to go higher. I should stop while I love acting. I don''t want to get tired."

    Hyson thought about something before saying, "Well, I hope this decision wasn''t made because of my best friend''s proposal."

    He Rou pursed her lips before nodding, "She yed a part too. I love the way she does whatever she wants. Since she loves Master Xian, she didn''t hesitate to propose to him. Even though it wasn''t anything grand, you can see how precious that spontaneous moment was for the two of them, just through those photos. They really match each other so well. Don''t forget to invite me to the wedding."

    "I''ll make sure to add your name to the guest list," said Hyson.

    "By the way, I''ve noticed somethingtely."

    "What?"

    "You seem to be avoiding our director," stated He Rou. "And our director had been finding ways to spend more time with you. What did you do?"

    "What did I do?"

    "I mean what did you do to charm that bad-tempered director of ours?"

    "Is it okay for you to bad mouth people behind their back, Sister Rou?"

    "She is notorious for her temper in the industry, I''m not the only one talking about it." She stared at him and went on, "Don''t avoid my question. Just tell me. What''s going on? Did you really charm her?"

    "Do you think I can charm anyone?"

    He Rou nodded her head seriously, "You''re either ying oblivious or you really have no idea about your own charms. This face of yours alone is enough to charm people and add on your well-mannered ways. You''re a deadlybination of charms."

    "I''m ttered," said Hyson. "But trust me, charming people wasn''t the intention."

    "So, am I right? Is she really into you?"

    Hyson sighed, "Aren''t you able to see it more clearly? Especially when she is being so obvious about it. I''m getting some weird looks from everyone on the set because of her change toward me. Do you think I''mfortable with that?"

    "Oh, poor you! It seems our Fai doesn''t fancy Amiah Jade. Well, she is pretty and sessful as well. Apart from her cranky personality, she is alright."

    "When did I say she is not alright?" retorted Hyson. "But even if she is the best person around, she isn''t someone I''m looking for."

    "You really don''t like her."

    "Not as a partner for sure," said Hyson. "I''m not the right person for her."

    "What? You''re saying, you''re not right for her and not the other way around? Fai, how do you even say that?"

    "Did I say anything wrong?" he asked.

    "How can you be wrong?" she retorted. "I''m just surprised that you''re so clear with your thoughts."

    "I always had been level-headed," he replied. "I know when to charge and when to retreat in life."

    He Rou couldn''t help rubbing his head as she said, "Aiyo! Aren''t you a smart bean?"

    "Sister, you should remove your hand. I think someone just clicked a photo. Get ready, soon you and I are also gonna make headlines."

    He Rou was startled as she pulled her hand back and looked around to see. She didn''t find anyone and looked at Hyson suspiciously.

    Hyson shrugged, "You can choose not to believe. But I''ll suggest you to be prepared."

 Chapter 987: Miracle Of Love

    Chapter 987: Miracle Of LoveEven though He Rou was a little suspicious, she still ended up believing his words. After all, she couldn''t possibly be so distrustful regarding Hyson. She remembered very well how Pei Zi Hong told her that the person she could trust with all her heart was Hyson in this production. From the moment that boyfriend of hers learned about Hyson being in the same production as her, he was exhrated and said a lot about Hyson.

    He even made her feel a little jealous but when she got close to Hyson, she realized why her boyfriend raved about him so much. This cutie deserved the reputation he had. There was no doubt about the fact that Hyson was a very genuine person. And thinking like this, she couldn''t me Amiah for catching feelings.

    If she hadn''t been obsessed with Pei Zi Hong for half of her life, even she might have gotten moved by Hyson. But since she already had Pei Zi Hong, so Hyson was more like an adorable junior. She really appreciated him and admired him.

    "Stop looking, or you''ll fall in love."

    She snapped back from her thoughts when she heard thatment from Hyson. Seeing his yful look, she rolled her eyes inelegantly. "Narcissist!"

    "I have the right to be a narcissist," he shot back with a chuckle.

    "Stopughing," she said. "Since we already got photographed, this is gonna look more suspicious."

    "Oh?" he raised his brow at her. "Then how about you leave."

    She red at him, "You''re shooing me away? How dare you treat your sister-inw like this?" She even yfully hit his arm and Hyson being Hyson exaggeratedly groaned.

    "Aiya! It''s painful. Mum!"

    "You''re unbelievable!" she grumbled.

    Hyson dropped his act and sat straight as he said, "I know." He flicked a strand of her from his forehead saying, "I was born an unbelievable miracle!"

    "You''re so shameless, Fai," said He Rou. "How can someone be so shameless?"

    "Oh, you are not born with such talent," he said. "This talent can be cultivated. I assure you, it took me years to hone this skill of shamelessness."

    He Rou didn''t know whether tough or cry but she felt really helpless at the moment. This guy was really... argh! She didn''t even have any words to describe him anymore.

    While the two of them were happily spending their break, they didn''t know someone''s gaze had been stuck on them all this while. There was a frown etched between Amiah''s brows as she stared at the interaction between He Rou and Hyson. Because of distance, she couldn''t hear what they were talking about but she could certainly see how close and how familiar they seemed with each other. Thefortable atmosphere around them was palpable. It was like they had a very close rtionship.

    Seeing themughing together made her a bit ufortable and the way she looked at He Rou wasn''t exactly friendly either.

    She wasn''t exactly blind or dense. She could tell that Hyson was avoiding her. He was putting more effort into his scenes to try his best to wrap up his work as soon as possible. And all of this was just to get away from her. She knew it. But even though he was avoiding her, he never treated her badly. He was still very polite and gave her a warm feeling. He didn''t seem cold and it really made her fall deeper into the illusion that perhaps she was different.

    It was only recently, she started noticing that, she wasn''t different. In fact, he was just a little sun who liked to bring light and warmth to people around him. And to the ones he loved, he increased his effort to be a warm ce.

    She wasn''t even special to him and he still made her want to get close to him. What if he really had her in his heart? How would it feel to be loved by someone like him? It really made her curious and this curiosity was like greed. It was getting bigger and she really want to keep him by her side and have him all to herself.

    "He Rou, touch up your make-up. You''re up next!"

    He Rou looked up and met Amiah''s dark gaze that almost startled her. But it was a good thing, she had already seen a lot being in this industry. So, she calmed herself and said ok to Amiah. Before leaving, she looked at Hyson and said in a small voice, "You''re being watched like prey."

    Hyson gave her a smile, "You don''t have to worry about me, sister He. I''m not an easy catch."

    He Rou nodded her head and gave him a thumbs up, "All the best!"

    He watched her leave and turned his eyes to Amiah, seeing her looking at him, he felt a headacheing on. It wasn''t like he didn''t know how to be a cold person. It''s just that this director was his Xian Ge''s sister. If possible, he wanted to avoid this trouble.

    But it didn''t seem like it was possible.

    He suddenly got up to walk around and refresh himself.

    In his life, the only person Hyson had preached about love to was Raelle. But that didn''t mean he actually had high opinions of love. Personally, he found it as troublesome as Raelle or even more. All because he could see what this love did to his own mother. He had a very deep shadow of how much his mother loved that man and how lonely she was all because of that love. Yes, his so-called father didn''t do anything but that didn''t change the fact that love was the reason his mother suffered.

    But thinking about how Raelle proposed to Shui Xian, he suddenly smiled and looked up towards the sky asking, "Life is really all about uncertainties."

    Who knew that the person like Raelle would be in love someday and won''t hesitate to act cheesy by getting on her knee for someone. But thinking about the man for whom she got on her knee, he thought it wasn''t all that impossible either.

    Miracles do happen. In this case, Shui Xian became Raelle''s miracle of love.

 Chapter 988: Reckless Raelle

    Chapter 988: Reckless Raelle"ording to your instructions, we have announced the news of your wedding on our websites and all our social media handles. The response is just as you expected it to be."

    Raelle listened to Cloe''s report and looked up at her. She looked tired and there was no doubt that the reason was Raelle''s absence and she added more trouble with her sudden proposal. Cloe had to gather the PR team in the middle of the night and couldn''t even sleep properly. Raelle thought she should feel bad for her dedicated staff.

    "Can you handle it?" she asked.

    Cloe looked up from the iPad in her hand and looked into Raelle''s eyes. Then she smiled at her and said, "As your trusted employee, it''s my job. I''ll do my best. As someone who admires you greatly, I''m genuinely happy for you."

    "What are you happy about? I''m already married. Others don''t know but you do," reminded Raelle.

    Cloe shook her head at her, "Chief, it''s different this time. You know when my assistant called mest night and said that you proposed? I thought I was dreaming. And then I actually reprimanded my assistant thinking that he was high. That''s how unbelievable it was to me."

    Cloe didn''t tell Raelle how she fell from bed when she learned this news. She couldn''t believe it at all. Staying with Raelle, she knew how patient this woman was. She also knew how rational Raelle was. She always nned things and spontaneous things weren''t exactly spontaneous. But when she thought about it, it wasn''t all that unbelievable either considering it wasn''t the first time Raelle did something without thinking for Shui Xian''s sake.

    So, in the end, the only person who could make Raelle Xiang reckless was Shui Xian. Cloe was very happy to know this. It meant that Raelle Xiang who was called a robot was learning to be a lot more human now. Because humans are reckless. Humans are emotional and end up doing things unexpectedly in the spur of the moment.

    But as an employee, it was really not fun.

    Not fun at all.

    "I''ve made you suffer,"mented Raelle.

    "As long as you know," replied Cloe.

    "After the dust settles, how about you hire a couple of assistants for me?"

    Cloe was startled, "Am I being fired?"

    Raelle gave her a look, "Really? If I wanted to fire you, it''d have happened long ago. I''m asking you to hire capable people and train them to take over your work from my side. You can stop being my special assistant and focus on being the Vice President."

    Cloe wasn''t exactly happy to hear that, she looked at Raelle suspiciously, "What are you up to, Chief?"

    "Nothing," said Raelle. "Just want to lighten up your workload so that you can n your wedding."

    Cloeughed weirdly, "What''s this about my wedding? I''m not in a hurry."

    "Shouldn''t you be happy that you won''t have to work more?" asked Raelle. "Why do you look so reluctant? What? Fell in love with me?"

    Cloe pursed her lips and looked at Raelle who seemed to be teasing her right now and it really made Cloe want tough. "It''s true. I did fall in love with you, Chief."

    "What a shame. I only love my husband."

    Cloe shook her head. She already knew she''d get such a response from someone like Raelle. "Chief, you break my heart saying this."

    "Go home and ask thatwyer of yours to help you pick up the pieces of your broken heart and fix it."

    Cloe gaped at Raelle, "Chief, you''ve changed."

    Raelle didn''t respond to that, she just gave the files that she signed back to Cloe saying, "I know you''re not someone who likes to drag things. Since you''ve found yourwyer who offered what you''re looking for, I''m sure you want to settle down. Because I know how much you want to have a family of your own."

    Cloe suddenly fell quiet when she heard that. Of course, who else would know she craved a family of her own than Raelle Xiang?

    "What are you saying, Chief? I''m not that insecure girl who came to your side ten years ago. Today, I have a family. I also have a home. I also have people who care about me. And on the top of the list, it''s your name, Chief. So, thank you for always caring about me in your way. Thank you for believing in me and thank you for weing me not in just your life but also your family. You gave me more than you think."

    Raelle looked at the tears shining in Cloe''s eyes and didn''t respond for a moment. To be honest, she didn''t think about what she did for Cloe. She only did what she always do. Since Cloe was loyal and sincere, she offered the some to her in return.

    But as always Raelle Xiang would never understand that she might be just returning what people gave her, however, she always offered her whole self and sometimes it meant the whole world to the other person. Just like Cloe to whom Raelle was above everything. She wasn''t just a boss.

    "You''re making it seem like I''m a great human being," said Raelle. "Don''t say it outside. People will call you crazy."

    Cloe chuckled when she heard that but didn''t refute it. Indeed, if she went out and said that Raelle Xiang was a caring person, a warm person, and had a beautiful heart, most people would call her crazy. Because that''s not the Raelle Xiang they see. But it wasn''t that the Raelle Xiang they saw was different, it was just that they never tried to see beyond the surface.

    "Chief, next time you decide to do something reckless, please give me a warning," said Cloe after being sentimental for a while. "My heart can''t take this. I''m a person with a weak heart."

    Raelle knew she was just changing the topic but she didn''t say anything and nodded in agreement.

 Chapter 989: Manual Of Life

    Chapter 989: Manual Of LifeTo be honest, even Raelle knew she was being impetuousst night. And this kind of impetuousness was new to her. She had only done it twice in her life. And both times it was for her husband. Last time, she left everything and decided to go and find her husband just because he was missing her and wanted to see her. And this time, it was again him who made her forget everything else.

    But there was no such thing as regret in Raelle''s life. She wouldn''t feel that she had done anything wrong. In fact, she was very happy.

    Cloe''s phone rang and she looked at the screen bitterly.

    "What''s up?"

    Cloe looked up at her, "It''s all your doing. These people keep calling me to confirm if the news is true. And since we announced in such a high-profile manner that you''re getting married to Master Xian, now they are calling to say congrats. As if I don''t understand their purpose!"

    At this moment, Raelle gave herself a mental pat on the shoulder. It''s good to not keep her work phone with her. Who would have the patience to deal with all these phone calls? Of course, she didn''t. Even if she was a patient person, it doesn''t mean she could deal with all these troublesome calls.

    Seeing Raelle, Cloe knew all too well that her Chief didn''t sympathize with her right now. At this moment she decided to seriously look for some assistants for Raelle. And one of those individuals had to be specifically for taking calls.

    "I''m gonna take this call, excuse me," said Cloe as she turned to leave.

    "You can leave now," said Raelle.

    "Ok," agreed Cloe and left.

    Before Raelle had the time to do anything else, her phone''s ring caught her attention. She put down the tv''s remote control on the coffee table and went to her bedroom. She found the phone on the side table and took it.

    Seeing the caller id, she was reminded she seemed to have forgotten to inform this explosive news to her best friend. And her best friend could get petty. No, he was just dramatic enough to act petty with her.

    Preparing herself mentally, she took the call, "Hi, Hyson!"

    There was silence on the other side which was unexpected. When did this chatterbox learn to be silent? Odd. So odd.

    "Do you expect me to read your silence?"

    There came a snicker from the other side, "You''re good, Ellie. Your wings have hardened, eh? Or is it that I have lost my value? You''re keeping secrets from me? Me? How dare you?!"

    Raelle leisurely put the phone on speaker as she walked back to the living area and sat down on the couch. She took the remote control and turned to watch a wildlife documentary.

    "I''m talking to you," said Hyson. "Now, you''re not even answering me?"

    "I''m waiting," she replied.

    "What are you waiting for?"

    "Waiting for when you''re gonna drop your act," she added.

    Hyson went silent when he heard that and sighed to himself helplessly, "Not all of it is an act though. I''m mad. Do you know how much of a fool I seemed when I knew nothing about my best friend''s high-profile proposal? I had to find it out from others. Not only that, even people on social media know more than me. It hurts my heart."

    "Now, that''s a lie," said Raelle. "How can anyone know more than you? People on social media only know that I''m proposing to Xian. But you know that I''m already married to Xian. Which phase of my rtionship is a secret from you?"

    "This! This phase where you got on your knee in front of everyone!" he shouted. "You fool! If you told me, wouldn''t I have brainstormed with you toe up with a better ce and better idea for the proposal? How can you do it so casually?"

    "Even if the whole world thinks it was a casual proposal, do you also think it was really casual?" asked Raelle calmly.

    Hyson pursed his lips as he leaned against the railing behind him and closed his eyes for a brief moment. Casual? How could it be casual? If it was Raelle Xiang who did it, it couldn''t be just a casual proposal. It meant she put all her heart into it. In fact, if she had really nned a grand proposal that''d have been so unlike her.

    "You really give me worry all the time," he said.

    "Are you sure about that?"

    "Positive!" he shot back. "Don''t argue with me. I''m already mad."

    "Oh? So what do you want me to do right now?"

    "You can coax me," he suggested happily.

    "You wish."

    Hyson''s face turned ugly when he heard that and rolled his eyes since she couldn''t see it anyway. "Okay, don''t coax me. I''ll look for my mothers if I need coaxing. And for you... You just share the details. I need all the details!"

    "You''re getting obsessed with gossip."

    "Someone said if I want to be a part of this industry, I should keep up with thetest gossip," he replied righteously. Only he could find such a grand reason to gossip. "Now, stop with the suspense. I want to know everything. My best friend is getting married. I have to know all the inside information."

    "Your best friend is married for months," reminded Raelle once again.

    "It''s different," he yelled back. "That marriage was just because Raelle Xiang thought at a certain age she had to get married. It''s like the cycle of life. You''re born, you study, you get a job, then you get married, then you have kids and then you get old and get a few illnesses along the journey and then you die. The end. Wasn''t that your idea of life?" He took a pause and added, "In all of that, love, feelings, nothing was involved. It was just you following the manual of life you got from who knows where. And now, I''m gonna ask you once again, Ellie, do you think there really is a manual of life?"

 Chapter 990: The Worst Human

    Chapter 990: The Worst HumanRaelle stared at the tv screen nkly before she replied, "No. Some things didn''t go the way I wanted. The first time it went out of my hands was when you suddenly popped up in front of me and refused to leave. That disturbed my life and brought some waves into the calm and peaceful ocean of my life. The second time it happened was when I met Xian. He smiled so beautifully that I forgot what I was supposed to do."

    Hysonughed out loud when he heard that. "Xian Ge''s smile held you captive. Tsk. Tsk. Tsk. Who knew you''re so easy to catch, Ellie."

    "As if."

    Hyson continued tough happily. "I''m very interested in knowing though. What prompted you to get on your knee?"

    "We went shopping then we watched a movie. While watching the movie, I realized that the man who sat with me, I wanted him. I wanted him all to myself and I wanted to tell this to the whole world that he belonged to me as well."

    "Here I thought only Xian Ge was the whipped type," he chuckled. "You''re no better, bestie." He paused as his expression changed and he asked, "Ellie, what kind of movie were you guys watching though?"

    "Oh, it was a romanticedy he picked," she replied and paused for a second.

    Hyson gritted his teeth and screamed making Raelle almost flinch back. It was good that she had the phone on speaker and didn''t ce it against her ear. He''d really destroy her eardrum otherwise.

    "You! You! You!" That was all he could say. He wanted to curse but damn, he couldn''t curse at her! He really couldn''t. First, he didn''t like cursing. Second, that was his best friend. He could never curse at her. But he was truly mad right now. "Traitor!"

    "You can''t call me a traitor," said Raelle. "I didn''t betray you."

    "Yes, you did!" he shouted. "I''ve been begging you for a decade. Begging. Literally begging. What did I ask for? Yes, let''s go and watch a movie that''s not horror. I didn''t even ask to watch a romance drama. I was fine with sci-fi, action, thriller, or whatever! Anything that''s not horror! I was okay with that! But no! Raelle Xiang would never listen. She always had to drag me to watch a horror movie and make me lose my sleep for two nights."

    "Just now, Cloe was making me sound like I was a great human being and now, you''re talking as if there is no one worse than me in this world."

    "There isn''t!"

    "Billions of people in the world and yet, you still chose this bad person to be your best friend? I don''t think anything is wrong with me but it seems something is wrong with you. Why would you pick such a bad person to be your best friend?"

    "I know what you''re doing," he said. "You''re trying to just y with words to make me take a turn. But guess what? I''m not that much of a fool. Today, I need an exnation! What''s with this biasedness? You can watch a romanticedy with Xian Ge, but you can''t watch even an action movie with me? Why? Why so unfair?"

    "Why are you reacting so much to it? You never reacted before this."

    "Because before today, it was all fair. If you won''t watch any other movie apart from a horror one with me, then you won''t watch it with anyone else. I felt very bnced knowing this. But you have disrupted the bnce this time, youngdy! It''s you who says that bnce is very necessary for life. How can you go and disrupt this bnce on your own?"

    "It had never been bnced," said Raelle. "Are you forgetting? You''re the only person I''d apany to a cinema to watch a movie. Only you. How can I watch any other genre of the movie with others when the only movie partner I have had is you?" Hyson suddenly lost words. Because that was also true. "This time, Xian wanted to watch a movie and I just apanied him. It''s not that I wanted to watch that movie or that I was interested. I just wanted to do what he wanted to do. And I also wanted to know how it felt to watch a movie with him."

    As if he forgot his grievance for a moment, he asked, "How did it feel?"

    "I realized that my husband looked a lot more attractive than the movie being yed on the big screen," replied Raelle very honestly.

    "Blergh!" Hyson made the sound of vomiting. He really couldn''t take it for a moment. "I momentarily lost focus. Forget it. Get back on track. Whatever your reason, it won''t change the fact that you betrayed me. You can try watching a romanticedy with Xian Ge but you won''t try it with me."

    "You want to watch a romanticedy with me?"

    "No! I want to watch a movie that''s not horror."

    "Oh," was the only response he got making him grind his teeth in frustration.

    Both of them fell silent for a long time but neither hung up the phone.

    After a prolonged silence, Raelle spoke up, "Do you know why I always take you to watch a horror movies?"

    "Why?" he asked. "And don''t give me a high sounded reasoning like you''re making me confront my fears."

    "I think you know I''m not that great."

    Hyson chuckled but covered his mouth to stop her from listening.

    "It''s actually very simple. I always drag you to watch horror movies because that''s the only genre you don''t want to watch."

    "Huh?"

    "All my life, you''ve been dragging me to do things I didn''t want to do. In the end, you''d still find a way to make me do it. No matter how troublesome it seemed to me. So, I wanted to pay you back. But sadly, my best friend isn''t scared to do anything in his life except for watching horror movies because he seems to really believe in ghosts."

    "Ghosts are real!"

    "We are not having this discussion again," said Raelle. "Well, now you know why I only watch horror movies with you."

 Chapter 991: Naggy

    Chapter 991: NaggyBy now, Hyson had actually calmed down. He also thought about it and agreed that indeed, for as long as he could remember, it was always him who dragged Raelle around to do things she wasn''t interested in. And let''s be real, Raelle''s interests were pitifully few. So, practically, he had to push her every single time to do anything.

    And it was also true that Hyson''s interests varied. He practically loved to do everything and anything. As long as it seemed fun, he wanted to give it a try. But he didn''t want to do it alone either. He was that kid who wanted to share his precious things with his precious person and in the end, Raelle was that precious person in his life with whom he wanted to share everything. He wanted to have fun with her.

    But more so, he wanted her to see the colors of life and walk out of the circle she lived in.

    Taking a deep breath, Hyson closed his eyes and when he opened them, his moodpletely settled. "So, what made you want to propose? How did that movie end up inspiring my best friend?"

    "The inspiration?" Raelle repeated as she leaned back on the couch and told him, "Nothing much. The movie just made me realize that we can''t have specific definitions for some things. Like feelings. We all define feelings in our own way and we all feel those feelings in our own way. We are all born with a unique set of DNA which means, we are all unique people. Then how can we have the same emotions? Some of us feel too much and some of us don''t feel at all. To some life is a journey and to some, it''s a race. Both are right in their own way. And just like that, for some love is happiness and for some, it''s pain. But to me... To me, love is Xian. That''s all."

    Hyson listened attentively to her without disturbing her at all. In fact, the more he listened the more his lips curled up. He always knew Raelle had her own way to perceive emotions. For instance, her way of showing her care was by giving gifts to people she genuinely cared about. She thought it was easier to spend money on gifts to show that the person mattered to her.

    And once again, she proved him right. She found her own definition of love.

    "I''m d you found your definition of love," said Hyson.

    "And yet you haven''t," she replied. "Here I thought I was the slow one between the two of us."

    Hysonughed at that, "Who said I haven''t? My definition of love is you... And my mum, and my Yanyan, and Opa as well."

    "You really think I''m a fool?" asked Raelle.

    "Who said that? Who can possibly call you a fool?"

    "You do."

    "Oh, I have the right to," he said so justifiably. He sighed again looking down at the crew setting the scene. "I still can''t believe you managed to get on the trending list with just a random proposal."

    "You''re clearly underestimating my appeal."

    "No, I''m not," he replied. "It''s just thatizens seem to love such gestures these days. And the photographer did an impable job of capturing the moment. At first, they were just gushing over what a romantic couple you guys were but once your identities were revealed, it snowballed into something bigger. Both of you are people with good looks, and adding on the fact that both of you are rich definitely made people envious." He took a pause and didn''t forget to remind her, "Don''t forget to send me a wedding invitation."

    "You need an invitation? Want a beating instead? As my brother, how dare you say you need an invitation? Who will receive the guests if you aren''t here?"

    "The very reason I''m looking for an invitation card is that that''d mean I''m a guest and guests are not supposed to work."

    "You''re actually refusing to work at my wedding?"

    Hysonughed at that and said, "Nah. You say it once, Jie. Your brother will handle everything."

    "You don''t have to," said Raelle. "I have people here. You just finish your work ande back to be my flower boy."

    Hyson lost his smile, "Ellie, there is no flower boy in any wedding. There are flower girls and even those are chosen from young girls. I''m a little too old for the role and also of the wrong gender."

    "It''s my wedding. I can ask whoever I want to do whatever I want them to do. If I said you''re flower boy, then you''re flower boy! You should be d I''m not adding you to my bridesmaid list."

    "Oh my, thank you," he said sarcastically. "Hold on, aren''t you having a traditional wedding? There are no flower girls or bridesmaids in that wedding."

    "Again, it''s my wedding. It''ll work my way."

    "Geez, do whatever you want," he said. "When are you guys going for the taste testing? Don''t forget to video call me. I can''t eat it but I''d like my eyes to feast on delicacies."

    "Fine, I''ll do whatever you say. But you also have to listen to me."

    "About what?"

    "Rest well," said Raelle. "Don''t be in such a hurry to be done with your work. I definitely won''t get married without you. So, pay attention to your health. If you fell ill one more time, I''m sacking you up and bringing you back home to lock you up."

    "You can''t lock me up."

    "Try me. If it''s to keep you safe, neither Yanyan nor Yue would disagree with my decision."

    "They don''t disagree anyway." But he still felt the crisis and agreed obediently, "Okay. I won''t push myself. When did you be so naggy? You didn''t use to interfere with my work. You''ve changed, Ellie."

    "Tell me if you need anything."

    "I will."

    "No, you won''t. Unless it''s thest option, you won''t look for me and you should drop that habit now. It isn''t healthy."

 Chapter 992: Humble Or Clueless?

    Chapter 992: Humble Or Clueless?"See, you''ve really be naggy," said Hyson in disbelief.

    "Scram!"

    Hyson pursed his lips but still ended upughing. "Oh, you''re still the same. Thanks for the reminder."

    He suddenly stoppedughing when he heard someone ying piano. He paused and listened to the melody attentively. It sounded really light at first but slowly, it was going towards a dark path. The sadness in that tune was suddenly oppressive as if engulfing everything and everyone within.

    "Hyson!"

    Hyson snapped back to reality when he heard Raelle''s voice and asked, "Huh? What happened?"

    "That''s what I''m asking, what happened? Why aren''t you saying anything?"

    "Oh, someone is ying the piano. I just lost myself in the music," he told her.

    "Then I''m hanging up now. Since you lost yourself in the music, you''d definitely want to see who is ying."

    Hyson smiled at how much she knew him. "Bye!"

    Raelle hung up and he breathed out before walking around to follow the sound of the piano. He hade out of the set where they were shooting for the phone call and was currently lingering around the periphery of set 2. And since the sound of the piano wasing from here, he followed it and found a room with the piano. He couldn''t see who was ying from where he stood in front of the window. So, he moved around and finally saw the person.

    He couldn''t help raising his brows when he saw the person who was ying the piano. It was a young boy. Probably 8 or 9 years old. He didn''t look older than that but his posture and the way his flexible fingers danced over the keys showed that he wasn''t an amateur. Well, since he got Hyson to immerse himself in the piece he was ying it showed that he wasn''t an amateur by any means.

    Looking at him concentrating on finishing the piece, Hyson was left staring at him attentively. Or perhaps, through him, Hyson was looking at himself. The young Hyson, who used to y the piano.

    The young Hyson was way too lonely in life and found sce in music. But at the same time, the same Hyson hated piano very much. He was also a little kid back then. Sadly, he was a kid who didn''t have dreams or ambitions. He was just a lonely soul.

    It was Raelle''s entrance into his life that truly inspired him and ignited the passion inside of him topete.

    When the boy finished his piece, Hyson pped without any hesitation. The boy looked up and saw Hyson standing outside the second window looking at him. The boy was surprised for a moment before he smiled at him and stood up to give a perfect bow making Hyson chuckle softly. He held the sill of the window and jumped inside. Well, going around to the door was a hassle so he chose the easier way.

    "You''re good. No, you''re very good,"plimented Hyson.

    "Thank you," replied the young boy in his clear voice. He was young but his eyes were very clear and gentle.

    "Hope you don''t mind that I was eavesdropping," said Hyson.

    The young boy shook his head, "I don''t mind. It''s nice to have an audience. Especially ones who appreciate my talent."

    "Oh, trust me, anyone would appreciate this level of talent. Are you from the Junior Piano Association? Who is your teacher?"

    The boy looked at Hyson and told him, "I''m not part of the Piano Association."

    "No?" Hyson was surprised.

    "No, my teacher is my mom. I learned to y the piano from my mother since I was young."

    "You aren''t that old now either," said Hyson. "What a coincidence though! I also learned the piano from my mother. She loves the piano."

    "Mine does too," replied the boy. "She rarely ys it though."

    "So does mind," said Hyson as he looked at the young boy with an inexplicable gaze. It wasn''t his fault. This coincidence was too much. He shook his head as he walked to the boy''s side as asked, "What are you doing at this set though?"

    "Oh, I have a role to y," said the boy. "A small cameo where I have to y this piece of the piano. I''m not able to adjust the emotions yet."

    "You sure about that? It sounded very good to me," was Hyson''s honest opinion. "You shouldn''t be so hard on yourself. I think you have done an impable job."

    "Thank you. That''s very nice of you." He took a pause and looked at Hyson''s face deeply before saying, "I think I have no need to ask why you''re here. I have seen you before."

    "Oh, am I that popr? I didn''t know."

    "Are you being humble or clueless?"

    "I think I''m clueless for real," said Hyson.

    The young boy seemed to have believed him as he said, "No wonder I liked you the moment I saw you."

    "Huh?" Hyson was confused.

    The young boy stretched out his hand towards him as he introduced himself, "Hello, I''m Chen. I think we''ll have fun working together."

    Hyson suddenly recalled that the movie he just signed had a young actor whose name was Chen. His manager told him to get familiar with this young actor but he had no time these days to learn anything about this person and now they stood in front of each other where the boy could recognize him but he couldn''t. How shameful!

    But considering his thick-skin, Hyson got over it very soon as he said, "Oh, so you''re Chen. My manager sang too many praises of you that it got me really curious. Now, that I''m seeing you, I understand why the director even invited me to join the crew."

    It was clearly because they had the same expressions and a slight resemnce. And seeing how they both yed piano, he thought they were definitely bound to y the same role. It wouldn''t be that difficult to believe he was the older version of this young boy named Chen.

 Chapter 993: Being Sensible

    Chapter 993: Being Sensible"My sister sure knows how to cause a sensation," sighed Xiang Wai as she came to apany her brother in the garden. He was personally attending to the flowering nts so diligently.

    Who knew that this cold face Lieutenant Colonel could actually be so gentle and dedicated? But it was only for his nts. It could be seen how proficient he was at this.

    "I don''t think that was her intention though," said Xiang Weimin in response.

    "Of course, it wasn''t the intention," agreed Xiang Wai. "But you know some people are the universe''s favorites. They end up being in the spotlight even when they are trying to hide. I think our Raelle is such a person. Whatever she does can cause a hubaloo."

    "I sometimes wonder if she really is the universe''s favorite though," said Xiang Weimin with a thoughtful expression. The scissor in his hand paused as he turned to look at her and added, "If we think about it. You and I were born into aplete family with the love of both our parents. But she was born in a very delicate period. It was chaotic and she almost lost her life. Although she survived, the family broke. Neither mom nor dad ever held her in their arms. Do you really think she is heaven''s favorite?"

    Xiang Wai couldn''t say anything in reply to that. She casually touched the flower at hand saying, "If you say it like that, I can''t disagree but we can look at things differently as well. She has a grandfather and Aunt Yan as well. Both love and dote on her. Okay, let''s forget about them they are family. Just look at Shui Xian. It''s like heaven nned it all for him to eventually end up with Raelle. And he didn''t disappoint heaven. He loves Raelle so much that it can make anyone envious."

    Xiang Weimin wanted to touch her head but his glove-d hands were dirty, he couldn''t touch her head so put his hand back down saying, "It seems you''ve grown smarter. You can even understand the concept of seeing both sides of the coin. Very well done." He wasn''t being sarcastic, he was genuinely praising her right now. It wasn''t that his middle sister wasn''t smart. It''s just that she''d rather not waste her energy on thinking deeply. She liked to see things as they were in front of her. She rarely would want to see beyond what was right in front of her. "I believe now you have also found the answer to the question you asked me before about why Raelle doesn''t seem to hate our parents."

    Xiang Wai indeed had asked this question to her brother and she had been confused about it for a long time as well. She thought since she had some resentment toward their grandfather and aunt, Raelle must also have some resentment toward their parents but she didn''t. It really baffled her.

    But now, she could see it a little more clearly.

    "Ge, when are you getting married?"

    Xiang Weimin stopped what he was doing and stared at her, "What are you up to now?"

    She lowered her voice and said, "Ge, don''t you feel the urgency here? Your youngest sister is getting married."

    "She is already married," replied Xiang Weimin in the exact same tone as Raelle had answered Hyson on the phone call.

    Xiang Wai rolled her eyes at his answer, "I know. And you should feel the urgency even more because of that. She is married. What about you?"

    "Are you worried that you won''t be able to rush your wedding if I hadn''t married? Don''t worry, I give you full permission to get married before me."

    Xiang Wai hit his arm as he chuckled at her. "Ge, I''m serious! Don''t always avoid my questions. I don''t usually agree with Fai but I am looking forward to him setting you up with a blind date. It even worries me at times." She took a pause and asked, "Ge, let''s be honest here. Are you sure no one broke your heart?"

    "I think you have too much time on your hands these days," said Xiang Weimin. "Your mind is too free to evene up with this nonsense. I suggest you get back to work."

    "Don''t worry, I''m going back to work soon," answered Xiang Wai.

    Xiang Weimin''s eyes narrowed, "So, what I heard is true?"

    Xiang Wai nodded her head.

    "Have you thought about it?" he asked seriously.

    "Ge, I''m certain!"

    "Even if you''re certain, I''ll suggest you think about it some more. Figure out if it''s really what you want."

    "I''ll keep that in mind," said Xiang Wai. "You don''t have to always worry about me. I''ll even consult Papa before making my final decision."

    Xiang Weimin was taken aback, "And since when did you start discussing your life ns with dad? Don''t you always stick with doing first and informingter?"

    Xiang Wai smiled bitterly at that. She indeed had been like that most of her life. She couldn''t even deny it. But she had to stop doing it now. "He is our father. He loves us so much. Besides, he is a General. I should sit down and discuss with him when I''m confused. It''s his responsibility to show me the way when I''m lost."

    Xiang Weimin smiled at that and shook his head. "Dad would be very happy to hear that."

    "Well, I want to make him happy," she said surprising him yet again. "I have realized that Papa had been the most innocent party in everything that happened. But he was the one who was left all alone in the end. Mom chose loneliness but the same loneliness was forced upon Papa. He was punished for the crimes he didn''t evenmit." She almost got tears in her eyes when she talked about it. She had been quite insensible in life. Now that she was trying to calm herself, she realized how much her father was wronged by everyone.

    Not just his family.

    Not just by his wife.

    But even them, as his kids, they also ended up wronging him.

 Chapter 994: Dont Like Anymore

    Chapter 994: Don''t Like AnymoreThinking about the people who wronged her father, Xiang Wai suddenly thought of Mu Chenyan. Her aunt loved her brother way too much. She couldn''t seem to ignore the way Mu Chenyan''s eyes would sparkle when she faced Xiang Hulin. She''d literally go from a fierce tiger to a cute kitten in front of her brother.

    The contrast was too drastic.

    It seemed, she couldn''t deny that the other person who was wronged was Mu Chenyan. She had to leave her brother. She had to raise a child who didn''t belong to her. And she had to dedicate her youth to the Xiang family.

    "Ge, have you seen Aunt?" asked Xiang Wai.

    Xiang Weimin shook his head, "Not really. She wasn''t at the breakfast and it was said she was sleeping in. But thinking about it, aunt doesn''t have the habit of sleeping in. Do you think something is wrong with her?"

    "It''s very possible," agreed Xiang Wai. "I''m gonna go and look for her."

    Xiang Weimin also put down his gardening tools and followed her in. At first, he didn''t pay attention, but it was really odd not to see Mu Chenyan. Their aunt loved to feed them all kinds of things as long as she was home. But it was close to lunchtime and they had yet to see her even though it was said that she was staying in today.

    "Yue''er, where is our family''s Chenyan today? Is she nning to lock herself in the room?" Grandfather Xiang was asking Yue Yue who also looked concerned right now. It was so not like Mu Chenyan to stay in her room for so long. It was truly worrying.

    ''I knocked on the door but she refused toe out.'' Yue Yue was also helpless about this.

    Grandfather Xiang wasn''t actually worried. He knew Mu Chenyan all too well. He raised her. How could a man not know his own daughter? But it wasn''t sitting well with him that this daughter hadn''te to see him since morning. And most of all, she didn''t even eat anything.

    He took his phone and gave Mu Chenyan a call. As soon as the call connected, he said, "Chenyan, you bettere down while I''m being nice."

    As soon as Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai entered, they saw a figure woosh pass them and went straight to stand before Grandfather Xiang. There was a huge grin on Mu Chenyan''s face right now as she faced him.

    "Are you that excited?" asked Grandfather Xiang with a helpless look. He didn''t even have to ask to know what was so exciting to her.

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head vigorously. "Exciting. It''s huge. It''s the best news I''ve ever got in my life."

    "Why do I think I''ve heard the same sentence from you before?"

    Seeing his teasing expression, Mu Chenyan pouted, "Elder Xiang, you can''t do that to me. You know that''s just my way of saying how happy I am." She took a cushion and ced it by his feet. She sat on it as she put her hands on his knees saying, "Aren''t you happy? I thought this day would nevere."

    "I''m happy. But clearly, our Chenyan is over the moon,"mented Grandfather Xiang as he caressed her face lovingly. "You look silly right now."

    Mu Chenyan didn''t mind thatment. She evenughed like a silly person. To the point that tears brimmed in her eyes, "From the moment I held her in my arms, I had dreamed about her wedding. But as she grew up, I started losing hope. I thought my Elle would never be like others. But did you see it? She actually proposed. She did! Not the other way around, Elder Xiang. It''s our Elle who did it. You know what that means?"

    Grandfather Xiang felt heartache when he saw her acting like this. He rubbed her head, "I know."

    Of course, he knew. To others, the news of Raelle''s proposal was just a shock but to these two people, it was a lot more. It meant a lot more as well. It wasn''t just anyone else proposing, it was Raelle Xiang who found 90% of the things in life troublesome. She didn''t even like these unnecessary formalities like the proposal or even a grand wedding. That''s why she straight went to get a marriage certificate. To her, that was job done.

    And that''s why they were very shock when she said she''d hold a wedding ceremony. But this time, it was beyond shock because she got on her knee to propose. And she wouldn''t do it unless she had understood her feelings.

    How could it not make Mu Chenyan want tough and cry at the same time?

    "My babygirl grew up," she said as she ced her head on Grandfather Xiangs'' knee and her tears fell even harder.

    Grandfather Xiang continued to stroke her head, "You should be happy instead of crying like this."

    "I can''t help it," said Mu Chenyan. "I''ve thought about it. I''m gonna hold a big banquet to announce their wedding. Let''s call it an engagement party." She wiped her eyes and continued to talk, "I''ve already thought about it all. We never went through an engagement. If we are doing things grandly, we should do it properly and go all out!" And then she kept exining how she had chosen the date, venue, theme of the party, even got the order of dresses done.

    "All this and you didn''t even talk to the bride and groom?"

    Mu Chenyan suddenly stopped and scratched her head, "It''s not that I truly forgot about it. It''s just I didn''t want to see Elle right now."

    "Why? Yanyan doesn''t like me anymore?"

    Mu Chenyan was startled to hear that voice and turned to look. She found Raelle standing at the door with Shui Xian by her side. Raelle''s eyes seemed to be poking Mu Chenyan showing the grievance and questioning her why she didn''t like her anymore?

 Chapter 995: No Joking

    Chapter 995: No JokingIn all honesty, Raelle''s eyes were just as nk as ever but for some bizarre reason, Mu Chenyan could see grievance in that pair of eyes. Maybe she broke her own brain to even have this illusion.

    Like a startled rabbit, Mu Chenyan shot up from the ground and called out, "Elle! When did youe?"

    "When you said you don''t want to see me," replied Raelle in an even tone. "I never thought there woulde a day when you''d stop liking me. I think my heart is hurting right now." She even ced her hand over her chest to emphasize her point, "I can''t breathe."

    Mu Chenyan was scared out of her mind while Shui Xian gave his wife a look. He really didn''t understand when and how his wife got addicted to acting. He even told her it didn''t suit her and yet here she was at it again.

    But seeing Mu Chenyan''s frantic behavior, he sighed to himself. Clearly, this act worked on Mu Chenyan.

    "You don''t love me anymore?"

    "Who said that?" Mu Chenyan almost yelled. "How can I not love my Elle? Don''t you know what you mean to me?"

    "But you didn''t want toe and see me," Raelle pointed out.

    "That''s because... I... I thought you''d be busy. Yes, that''s right."

    Raelle gave her a look before saying, "Liar. You didn''t want to see me because you''re afraid that you won''t be able to help to cry and I don''t like seeing you cry."

    Being seen through, Mu Chenyan stilled for a moment before she nodded.

    Who didn''t know that Mu Chenyan usually cried only when things involved Raelle? Even Raelle knew this very well. But she also never liked seeing her cry.

    Raelle lifted her hand and wiped Mu Chenyan''s tears asking, "Are you done crying?"

    "Where is it hurting?" Mu Chenyan asked in return rather than answering her question.

    "It doesn''t hurt," replied Raelle. "I was just joking with you."

    Mu Chenyan looked at her suspiciously and Shui Xian couldn''t help speaking, "Only you''d fall for that acting, Yanyan. I don''t think anyone else fell for it."

    Mu Chenyan looked around to see everyone giving her a look and she sniffled, "So what? I just love my Elle. Can''t I be worried?" She took another look at Raelle and added, "Elle, can you not joke about your health? You know it''s scary to me."

    "When are you not worried?" asked Raelle. "I told you long ago that you should stop worrying about me."

    "Is that something in my control?" asked Mu Chenyan in return. "What are you doing here?"

    "Can''t Ie over?"

    "I didn''t mean that."

    "I came for lunch."

    "Oh, why didn''t you say so earlier? What time is it?" Mu Chenyan got frantic once again. "There isn''t much time. Let me see what I can make."

    Raelle held her hand saying, "The lunch is already prepared. I already informed them that I''ming over."

    "Huh? Why did no one tell me?"

    "Who told you to stay in your room all the time?" asked Raelle in return.

    "Then let me see what they made," said Mu Chenyan.

    "No! Today, you''re just going to sit with me and eat," said Raelle. "Stop rushing around. We have serious business here."

    In the end, the serious business Raelle was just to feed her Yanyan who hadn''t eaten anything today. Mu Chenyan looked at everyone as she asked, "Who went to tell Elle that I didn''t eat?"

    "No one," answered Raelle herself. "As if I don''t know anything about my Yanyan. How many times have I told you that in the process of taking care of me, don''t always forget yourself. You cried so much, what if you got dehydrated?"

    Mu Chenyan slightly hit her shoulder at that stupidment of hers that never gets old. Then she clipped a peace of chicken and brought it to Raelle as if to feed to her.

    "I''m here to feed you, not the other way around," said Raelle.

    "But it''s not every day that my babygirl sits with me for a meal. I miss the time when I could feed you every day."

    "Chenyan, she is already married," reminded Grandfather Xiang.

    "Elder Xiang, how many times I have told you not to mess around when I''m with my Elle? I''ll feed her. What does that have to do with you?"

    "You''ve spoiled her habits and Xian has to suffer because of that," said Grandfather Xiang.

    Mu Chenyan gave a dissatisfied look to Shui Xian asking, "You''re suffering?"

    Shui Xian shook his head like a rattle, "No way. I''m happy to serve my wife."

    "That''s more like it," Mu Chenyan finally gave him a pleasing look and Shui Xian breathed a sigh of relief. If possible, he didn''t want to be in her range of attack. It was nerve-wracking.

    "When are you gonna stop bullying my husband?" asked Raelle.

    "I''m not bullying him," said Mu Chenyan. "In fact, of all our family''s sons-inw, I have the best rtionship with Xian. Isn''t that right, son-inw?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "Yes, yes. We have the best rtionship. It''s just our way of interacting is unique."

    "See?" Mu Chenyan smiled at her Raelle as she coaxed her like a baby to eat more.

    Raelle was really helpless in front of this woman who loved her more than the world. And she was the only one who could coax her as well. Even if Raelle never acted like a baby, she was still Mu Chenyan''s baby and she''d do anything for her baby.

    "Elle, I''m nning an engagement banquet for you," said Mu Chenyan cautiously.

    "Is that why you locked up yourself?" asked Raelle and seeing Mu Chenyan nodding, she thought about it before saying, "Okay. It''s up to you. You can do whatever makes you happy."

    "Really?" Mu Chenyan looked at her in disbelief.

    "What? Do you think I can''t even do this much to make you happy?"

    Mu Chenyan smiled widened and she nodded, "This is perfect. You don''t worry. As always, you just have to show up. I can do everything on my own."

 Chapter 996: Dont lose

    Chapter 996: Don''t lose"Why are you working alone?" asked Raelle and looked at Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin. "Are these two freeloaders? Family should help when it''s necessary. Won''t you be tired out working all on your own?"

    Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin almost didn''t react. They both couldn''t believe that Raelle was actually talking about them. What did it mean? It meant they were epted as family. At least, they''re slowly crawling into this family.

    Xiang Wai stood up and patted her chest saying, "Sister, you don''t worry. Have faith in me. I''ll take care of everything."

    "Sit down, I don''t trust your choices," said Raelle.

    Xiang Wai deted like a balloon while everyone elseughed at Raelle''s words. Even Xiang Weimin couldn''t helpughing. He tried not to but he couldn''t help it. He knew he shouldn''tugh at his own sister but it wasn''t possible right now. Who asked Raelle to hit the mark? Even he didn''t trust Xiang Wai''s choices.

    "Raelle, you don''t do this to me," pouted Xiang Wai. "I want to help too. It''s my sister''s engagement."

    "Who said you''re not helping?" asked Raelle. "You''d be doing the hardbor and running errands for Yanyan. Don''t let her run around and tire herself."

    Xiang Wai perked up at that, "I assure you, I''ll be the perfect assistant to aunt. So much so that even she''d find it a shame that I didn''t choose this as a profession."

    "Wait, stop it. I''m gonna get a stomachache at this rate," said Xiang Weimin to his sister.

    "Ge, did I say something wrong?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "No," Xiang Weimin shook his head.

    "Major," called out Raelle.

    "Yes?"

    "You make me want to go back to studying genes in depth," said Raelle.

    "Why?" asked Xiang Wai in confusion.

    "Because I want to know what mutation brought you into this world."

    Xiang Weimin spurted out the water he was drinking and coughed. "Sorry," he apologized to everyone before he covered his mouth with a napkin to cough again.

    Who knew if Xiang Wai got the meaning of that or not because she was still very happy as she said, "Mutation is necessary. Do you think the world would be an interesting ce if everyone acted like you and Ge? I don''t think so. It''d be too tiring to face the same people every day. Variety is necessary for life. And variety is also necessary for a family. That''s what makes a family. Everyone is different but they are still family."

    "For once, I don''t disagree with you."

    Xiang Wai grinned like she got candy, "See? I''m not that much of a fool."

    "No, you just like to act like one," said Raelle.

    "I should feel offended but since it''s you who said it, I''ll take it."

    Mu Chenyan smiled seeing the interaction between the siblings even the way she looked at Raelle was gentler than ever. She really thought her baby grew up. She grew up so much. It was almost unbelievable to Mu Chenyan. In fact, the way she looked at Shui Xian was even more peculiar because she knew it was all possible because of him as well.

    They say the one you love dyes you in their own color. And Shui Xian did exactly that.

    "Don''t worry, Elle. I''ll put these two to good use," assured Mu Chenyan.

    "Yes, you should worry about picking your engagement rings," said Xiang Wai. "Also, you''d have to dance at the engagement banquet too. Can you dance?"

    "What if I can''t?" asked Raelle in return. "How about Major dance with her Captain instead of me and my husband?"

    "That sounds very lovely but I can''t snatch your limelight on your engagement."

    "I don''t mind," said Raelle.

    "Raelle is right," even Grandfather Xiang agreed. "Since she doesn''t like to dance, you should do it, Wai."

    Xiang Wai suddenly paused as she realized once again that the whole family knew about her love affair. Thest time they weren''t even trying to keep it a secret and yet it was kept a secret but this time, they were purposely trying to keep it under the covers, and yet, everyone around them knew they were dating.

    "Will Fai be able to join us?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "I''ll send my private jet to pick him up," said Shui Xian. "We just have to coordinate with his manager to see which one is his off day."

    "Okay, then I''ll leave that to you," said Mu Chenyan. "Wai would be running errands for me, Weimin is gonna help arrange things. Elder Xiang is gonna make the guest list."

    Yue Yue raised her hand but Mu Chenyan acted like she couldn''t see at all.

    "That''s it. We all have our own jobs to do now."

    Yue Yue raised her hand higher to get her attention and in the end, she pped her chopsticks on the table and looked at Mu Chenyan with rage. ''You''re bullying me just because I can''t talk?''

    "What nonsense? When did I?"

    ''Then why am I not on the list? What am I supposed to do?''

    "Your job is to look pretty," said Mu Chenyan.

    "I agree," said Raelle.

    Yue Yue gave them both a look and puffed up her cheeks as she crossed her arms against her chest. She clearly wasn''t happy with this arrangement. Not at all!

    "Okay, okay. Your job is to go shopping with me," said Mu Chenyan. "My clothing taste isn''t as exquisite as yours anyway. You take that job."

    Yue Yue finally seemed happy to hear that. At least, she had a role to y now.

    "Opa, I''ll keep yourpany," said Raelle.

    Grandfather Xiang smiled at her dotingly and agreed, "That''s fine with me. I''ll be over the moon to have my Raelle with me. On that note, how about a game of chess?"

    "You want to lose?"

    Grandfather Xiang gave her a look, "Yes, your grandfather is really looking for a tough battle here. Come and evoke mypetitiveness once again. All of these are boring chess partners."

    "Ouch!" said Xiang Wai. "Grandfather, how can you say that?"

    "Who asked you to suck at it?"

    "I''m already very good at it! Who asked you to be a master? I clearly am not a match. Since you don''t want me to be your partner, alright, I''ll be rooting for Raelle." She looked at Raelle saying, "I''ll be cheering for you. Don''t let me down."

    "I don''t lose," said Raelle.

 Chapter 997: Marriage Proposal

    Chapter 997: Marriage ProposalA burst of heartughter was heard and Grandma Zhai looked at her husband whose face was turning red fromughing so much. She frowned at him and came to sit beside him. Grandpa Zhai hung up the phone with a smile still stered on his face.

    "What did Tianyu Ge say to make you this happy?" she inquired in surprise.

    "I could hear him beaming through the phone," said Grandpa Zhai. "They are holding an engagement banquet for Raelle and Xian. He invited us." He shook his head saying, "He is happy as if it was his own wedding or something."

    "I think you shouldn''t doubt what Raelle means to Tianyu Ge," said Grandma Zhai. "And she is such a sweetheart. Who wouldn''t like her?"

    Grandpa Zhai paused and observed his wife before saying, "Tianyu said there is something else he wants to discuss with us."

    "About what?"

    Grandpa Zhai was silent for a while before he said thoughtfully, "He didn''t say it explicitly but I think I''ve seen some signstely. It definitely has something to do with our grandson."

    "Jun?" asked Grandma Zhai surprised. "What could it be?"

    "What do you think?" asked Grandpa Zhai in return rather than answering her question.

    Grandma Zhai thought about it for a while before her eyes widened, "Does he want to deepen the friendship between our family by turning into rtives?" She frowned a little, "But do you think Jun would agree?"

    Grandpa Zhai gave his wife a look and sighed, "You forget about Yanjun for a while and tell me your own thoughts. If he really has this idea then it means the candidate is Xiang Wai. You''ve never really liked her."

    Grandma Zhai gave her husband a displeased look, "I don''t particrly dislike her. I just never liked the way she acted. But that could be just me being old-fashioned. She is a strong and independent woman of this era. Of course, she isn''t feminine enough but considering the job our Jun chose for himself, he doesn''t need someone feminine. I think it''ll be better to have someone who''d be able to understand his job."

    "My wife is bing very open-minded," said Grandpa Zhai in surprise. He wasn''t expecting this answer from his wife at all. He thought she''d be against this idea. Because she always stuck to her own ideas all the time. "I really didn''t expect this from you."

    Grandma Zhai sighed softly, "We are old now, old man. We should stop interfering with young people. Why should I drag my old bones to pick a fight? I''m not the one who is gonna spend life with Jun''s wife. It''s he whose opinions matter. I had the same idea when my son got married. I just wanted him to be happy but he ended up not making the right choice. But isn''t this better? Since he made the choice, he didn''t me us for anything. What if we had chosen such a bad wife for him? Wouldn''t it also strain our rtionship with our son?" She looked around and lowered her voice to add, "Also, I don''t wanna wrong my own grandson. You can see the result of wronging your own child. Didn''t you what happened with the Yue family? They have chilled Yue''s heart. That''s why she isn''t even willing to talk to them now. I''m so old. I don''t want to lose the chance to be with my grandson. I''m still waiting to see some great grandkids."

    Grandpa Zhai''s heart eased up and he nodded in agreement, "I''m d, you think like this. I was worried how I''d react if Tianyu really brought up this matter and I had nothing to say. You know how much I wanted to make our two families bind together through marriage. Why else would I even push Yanjun to have a blind date with Raelle? Now, this is good. Yanjun and Wai are familiar with each other and I think they like each other as well."

    "You think so?" asked Grandma Zhai with an exciting look. "How do you know? Did Jun say anything to you?"

    "No," replied Grandpa Zhai. "I just guessed. I have seen the way those two act. I always felt there was something between them."

    "It''d be so much better if they are really interested in each other," said Grandma Zhai. "Wai is a good girl. At least, she knows how to respect her elders. She is awkward with us old people but she is never impatient with us. Even if our ideas don''t match, she has never disrespected me. Even when I used to treat her coldly, she always showed me respect. I must have been blind to not actually pay more attention to her in the past."

    "You can''t me her for that," said Grandpa Zhai. "She grew up in a very different environment. It made her rebellious but still, the education of the Xiang family is rooted in her bones. She knows you aren''t a bad person so she''d do her best to respect you. I''ve heard that she knows her bottom line. Unless you really touched her bottom line, she''d be a very nice person to interact with."

    "What are you both discussing so excitedly?" asked Zhai Kuijun as he came to sit with his parents with a fruit bowl in his hands. He looked at his parents who were flushing showing their happiness, and got curious about what made them react like this. He hadn''t seen his parents this happy in a while. Especially since the Elders of the Yue family came to their house. So, he was very intrigued by their reactions right now.

    "We are discussing the marriage of our Jun," replied Grandma Zhai straightforwardly.

    Zhai Kuijun choked and coughed violently when he heard that from his parents. He was not expecting their topic of discussion to be his own son''s marriage. It caught him off guard and he couldn''t help choking.

    He pped his chest and asked, "Are you for real?"

 Chapter 998: Take It

    Chapter 998: Take It"Of course," replied Grandma Zhai. "Why would we lie to you?"

    "No, I mean. Why are you discussing Yanjun''s marriage? Even as a father, I''m not in a hurry."

    "We are not in a hurry too," said Grandpa Zhai. "And it''s not like we''re gonna force him. But this time, I do want to discuss it with my grandson. Because the candidate is very pleasing to me."

    Zhai Kuijun got curious and asked, "Who is it? Who is this candidate that is even pleasing to my dad?"

    "You know her," replied Grandma Zhai mysteriously.

    "Old man and my old mother, you both should stop being so secretive," said Zhai Kuijun. "I might not be the best father out there but I do deserve to know about my son''s affairs."

    "Stop with your pity party," Grandpa Zhai cut off his son. "It''s your best friend''s daughter."

    "My best friend?" repeated Zhai Kuijun and thought about it. His best friend seemed to be Xiang Hulin who had two daughters. One is already married so... His eyes widened as he asked, "You mean Wai? How do you know Yanjun loves Wai?"

    "What?!" Both elders were pleasantly surprised now. "You mean our grandson is really interested in her?"

    Zhai Kuijun was taken aback by their reaction but still told them honestly, "He has been in love with her since he was young. Didn''t you notice that she was always around the time he started resolving his depression? She yed a big role in his recovery. And he was very dependent on her as well. Although they never said it explicitly, I always knew something was going on between them. And recently, it seems they have gotten even closer. I heard the other day Wai was sick and Yanjun rushed to her side. And I also saw them on a date. Of course, I didn''t go over to catch them but that doesn''t mean I don''t know anything."

    Both elders didn''t expect this development but it only made them rxed.

    "No wonder Tianyu has this idea," said Grandpa Zhai in understanding. "I was wondering already, Tianyu won''t push Wai for an arranged marriage. After all, he never liked interfering in others'' matters. It''s only Raelle for whom he had to put in extra effort because she told him from the beginning that he''d be the one choosing her partner. But the same couldn''t be said about Wai."

    "Why didn''t you tell us this earlier?" asked Grandma Zhai in displeasure.

    "I didn''t think you''d be interested," said Zhai Kuijun. "Anyway, it''s really something to celebrate. My best friend is gonna be my inw. Now, I can show Koshing that I also have a daughter. He changed a lot since he got Raelle as his daughter-inw and kept showing off."

    "What game are you middle-aged single men ying?" asked Grandpa Zhai.

    Zhai Kuijun raised his brow at his father who shrugged.

    "Can you argue? You''re divorced, and Hulin is divorced. Koshing''s wife died. I don''t even know which one of you had it worst. But technically, you are all gonna be inws in the future. You can make a single men middle-aged group and have fun together."

    Grandma Zhaiughed out loud at her husband''s words and gave him a thumbs up, "Old man, that''s a very good idea. I approve. I have to tell Jun about this."

    Zhai Kuijun looked at his parents in disbelief. He really couldn''t believe this was really happening to him right now. What happened to his parents? When did they change like this? They were always strict. Why did he feel like he was looking at a brand new version of his parents who were carefree and fun? Was he hallucinating?

    What he didn''t realize was that his parents got influenced by Grandfather Xiangtely and realized how Grandfather Xiang protected the cubs of his own family with his authority and yet, had such a close rtionship with everyone in his family. Everyone not only respected him but also loved him genuinely. How could they not be envious of such a rtionship? They realized how wrong they had been by putting the distance between themselves and their son and grandson.

    But that didn''t mean they couldn''t change at all. There was still time. They could definitely change something.

    "You both are actually making fun of our wounds?" asked Zhai Kuijun. "Dad, no one of us had it easy. We all suffered in our own ways."

    "That''s what I''m saying. Isn''t it good to make a friends group? You all can rte to each other and bond over your misery."

    "Father!"

    "What are you reacting about? It was purely a suggestion. And a good one as well. Isn''t it good to be friends with your inws? Don''t forget that our three families already have a deep friendship from our times. I, Tianyu, and the old man from the Shui family were as close as brothers. Do you think I won''t be happy seeing our sons getting along too? I always found it disturbing when you three didn''t get along when you were young. Butter, you befriended Hulin and I was happy. Now, there is a chance to get close to Koshing as well. Take it."

    Zhai Kuijun didn''t deny it. He couldn''t refuse it. Strangely, when they were young even though their fathers were closest buds, they never got along much. They kept a distance from each other. Perhaps because their interests were different back then and mostly because Hulin was always found in the barracks training and Koshing was left to take sses on how to be the future head of the n. Their interests really didn''t match.

    It was after Xiang Hulin''s divorce that Zhai Kuijun truly got close to him and they became good friends. But Shui Koshing was busy being the head of his family even then and had no time. Not even for his own family. Later, a lot of things happened in the Shui family and Shui Koshing withdrew himself. He locked himself in his own orb after his wife''s death. Even more they couldn''t get close.

    But now, it was different for sure. They had a genuine reason to get close.

 Chapter 999: Willing To Let Go

    Chapter 999: Willing To Let GoZhai Kuijun was in a particrly good mood after knowing that Elder Xiang had ns of discussing the future of Zhai Yanjun and Xiang Wai. What did it mean? It meant, he actually approved of their rtionship and that was a big deal. He didn''t expect his son to actually get this approval so soon.

    But recalling how Zhai Yanjun was almost like a fish in the water whenever he was with the Xiang family, it wasn''t that hard to believe. It only meant that his son truly had an affinity with that family.

    He was stoked to know that he was about to be inws with his best friend.

    But his good mood was short-lived. As soon as he went upstairs, he could hear the voice of Elder Yue talking on the phone.

    "And is it my fault? Did I ask you to go and look for trouble? How many times have I told you to rein in your temper? You can''t afford to offend just anyone. Some people you can''t touch. But did you ever listen?"

    Zhai Kuijun didn''t even have to ask to know that the one on the phone with Elder Yue was his dearest daughter, Yue Lan. Who else had such a big temper in the Yue family except for that woman who had princess syndrome or something? He was very careless about this matter. But what got his attention was that Yue Lan actually provoked someone she couldn''t afford.

    It almost made himugh out loud. The woman who gave him heart disease wanted to see her suffer as well.

    "So you''re saying it all happened because of Yue Yue? So, what? What am I supposed to do about it? She isn''t a part of our family any longer. Did you think she is still at your mercy? Did you really think she is still the same girl who was scared of you? Or she was still as helpless as ever? But guess what? She isn''t. She also has people who love her and who know how to protect her. Before going over to mess with her, you should have thought about the consequences."

    Zhai Kuijun who had taken some steps to walk away stopped and backtracked when he heard Yue Yue''s name being mentioned. Hmmm, so it meant that Yue Lan got in trouble because of Yue Yue? Oh, that''s a first.

    He didn''t even realize how happy he looked to hear this news.

    "Well, I don''t care. It''s your own mess, go deal with it yourself. You''re old enough to make your own decisions. I am old now. I have neither time nor the energy to clean your mess all the time. Or, go look for your mother''s family who inted your ego and made you feel invincible. If they hadn''t stroked your ego, you''d know that you''re nothing. Some people can trample on you like an ant. Now, congrattions you met exactly that kind of a person."

    After saying that, Elder Yue hung up the call and rubbed the space between his brows tiredly. He was really tired. He was already not in the best of health and his daughter didn''t even care. All she cared about was that she was wronged. And looking for him to avenge her. He had long run out of patience for this daughter. He only bears with her for her dead mother and because of the pressure of her mother''s family.

    But he was already dying now. He didn''t care about anything anymore.

    Only after seeing the indifference in his youngest daughter''s eyes did he realize what he had lost. When she wasn''t around, he was still hopeful but seeing that indifference really tore his heart. He also realized that Yue Yue also ran out of forgiveness for him. She always was the one who understood him and she was so thoughtful but where did it get her?

    It was good that she ran out of patience and forgiveness. It was better this way. At least, it meant she started living for herself rather than the people around her who had used her patience to their own benefit all her life.

    Zhai Kuijun looked how Elder Yue seemed haggard right now. Even his own father seemed younger than Elder Yue. Not only that, even Elder Xiang who had been sick for years looks healthier than Elder Yue. It only proved what kind of life he had been living. In fact, having a daughter like Yue Lan was indeed enough to cut off a couple of decades of your life span.

    Zhai Kuijun sighed.

    That sigh caught Elder Yue''s attention and he turned to look at it. Being caught, Zhai Kuijun didn''t panic but only gave him a nod before preparing to leave.

    However, Elder Yue stopped him, "Kuijun,e here."

    Zhai Kuijun stopped and looked at Elder Yue. He stood there in silence as if contemting before he finally came to sit with Elder Yue.

    "How are you, Elder Yue?"

    "Same," answered Elder Yue as he picked up the tea cup and with one hand lifted the lid of the cup and while pushing the tea leaves with the lid, he took a sip of the tea. It instantly gave him a calming feeling and he could momentarily forget all his worries. Even if it was just a moment, it was worth it.

    Zhai Kuijun didn''t think it was the same. He could tell that Elder Yue''s situation wasn''t looking good. He was actually scared that something might happen to him. It wasn''t an unfounded thought. He was familiar with how Elder Yue''s health started going down from the moment Yue Yue left. After that, he never fully recovered and only got worse and worse.

    He had been holding on for all these years perhaps because he really wanted to find Yue Yue. And now that he knows she is alive and happy, perhaps, he finally was willing to let go.

    The thought startled Zhai Kuijun and he stared at Elder Yue even more meaningfully.

 Chapter 1000: His Father

    Chapter 1000: His FatherZhai Kuijun sat silently while Elder Yue was lost in his own thoughts. Zhai Kuijun didn''t rush him to talk.

    "You must despise by ipetency," said Elder Yue.

    Zhai Kuijun frowned before he understood his meaning and shook his head, "Not really. I just had been disappointed in you."

    Elder Yueughed self-deprecatingly, "Right. Disappointed. I''m really a disappointment. I guess that''s what Ah-Yue felt as well; disappointment."

    Zhai Kuijun didn''t say anything and silently acquiesced. Because he couldn''t bring himself to deny that. It''d be a surprise if Yue Yue wasn''t disappointed in her own father. Anyone would be. No matter how much of a kind person she was, she also had limits. Even if you stretch rubber for too long, eventually it snaps. Yue Yue was a human. How could she not snap?

    "Meeting Xiang Tianyu, I realized how ipetent I had been in my life," started Elder Yue. "It was my job to protect my daughter. Not just from the world but from her own family and from myself too. But I couldn''t protect her from anything. In fact, I became one of the preparators who hurt her.

    Zhai Kuijun wasn''t expecting to hear this.

    "But even if I''m ipetent, it won''t change the fact that I love Ah-Yue. She is my own blood, how can I not love her?"

    Zhai Kuijun couldn''t deny that either. He knew Elder Yue was the only person in the whole Yue family who genuinely loved Yue Yue. Even her own mother who gave birth to her didn''t take her seriously.

    "She had such a beautiful and sweet voice. Whenever she used to act coy with me, holding my arm, I''d instantly melt down. What a cruel destiny and I won''t be able to hear that voice again."

    Zhai Kuijun pursed his lips as he watched Elder Yue wipe tears from the corner of his eyes. Now that he noticed it, it seemed Elder Yue had been shedding a lot of tears these days or his eyes won''t look so red and swollen.

    Zhai Kuijun didn''t know what to say or do in the situation. He had been in shock for a long while too when he learned about Yue Yue''s voice. What could he possibly say or do in this kind of situation to make it better? He didn''t think there was anything that he could do about it.

    "Kuijun, have you met her son?"

    Zhai Kuijun was taken aback by that sudden question but still nodded his head. "I have met him. I met him even before I met Yue Yue. He is friends with Yanjun."

    Elder Yue nodded his head and asked, "What is he like?"

    Zhai Kuijun paused but seeing Elder Yue''s genuine interest, he still told him, "Yue Fai is... a goofball. A very adorable goofball. He is a very sunny boy. He smiles and makes everything around him shine. Even in a crowd, you''d be able to single him out."

    Elder Yue listened to it all with relish and a bit of longing in his eyes.

    "But he is very protective of his mother," added Zhai Kuijun. "He bes a porcupine ready to shoot needles at you once you speak anything bad about his mother or even speak harshly to her."

    "He seems like a good boy," said Elder Yue.

    "Oh, he is! He is a very good boy," confirmed Zhai Kuijun. "Yanjun and he has a very love-hate rtionship. It''s actually funny seeing them arguing." Heughed to himself thinking about how they both rushed to catch Yue Yue''s attention.

    "What does he look like?" asked Elder Yue curiously.

    Zhai Kuijun thought about it and it suddenly dawned on him that Hyson was actually a star. How could he not find his photos on the inte? So, he looked him up, and vo! There were tons of his photos.

    He came to Elder Yue''s side and showed him the phone, "There you go. There are tons of his photos on the inte. He is a celebrity, after all."

    Elder Yue put on his spectacles and looked at the photos. Seeing his other grandson for the first time, Elder Yue couldn''t exin hisplicated emotions. But one thing was for sure, looking at Hyson''s smile, even he found it too bright. As if he was like a sun that could push through even the clouds to lighten your day.

    There was confidence and mischief in his eyes that he never found in Yue Yue.

    But what was even more attention-grabbing was his face. Elder Yue was momentarily lost just looking at that face.

    "Doesn''t he look so much like Yanjun when Yanjun was younger? I also noticed it. In fact, my parents also noticed it when they first met him. But none of us thought too much about it."

    Elder Yue looked at Zhai Kuijun who was talking carelessly about it and his eyes shed with an emotion that was hard to describe.

    "What about his father?" asked Elder Yue. "Did you meet him?"

    Zhai Kuijun''s shoulders slumped and he shook his head. "What meet? I didn''t even get to learn his name. It''s like no one talks about his father in that family. I also asked Yue Yue about it but she didn''t give me a definite answer. It was very vague. One thing is clear though, she raised her son alone. So, whichever bastard it was, he really abandoned her and left her to fend for herself all alone."

    Seeing the rage on Zhai Kuijun''s face, Elder Yue felt even moreplicated. At this moment, after seeing Hyson, he already confirmed that Hyson was Zhai Kuijun''s son. But clearly, no one was willing to tell him that.

    But even when Yue Yue didn''t tell him, he wondered if he wanted to do it?

    Yue Yue might have stopped for the sake of her family and for the sake of Zhai Kuijun''s peaceful life. But for the first time, Elder Yue wanted to do something about it. Just as Zhai Kuijun mentioned, she suffered so much raising her son all alone. Why should Zhai Kuijun stay oblivious?

    Back then, he kicked out his daughter for the sake of a peaceful life of his other daughter and this man. But now? Now, he didn''t want to do so.

 Chapter 1001: Hyson Is Dating?

    Chapter 1001: Hyson Is Dating?"Huh?" Zhai Kuijun stared at his phone with a dumbfounded look and frowned to himself as he read the top trending news about Hyson.

    It read,

    [Movie Queen He Rou being intimate with a pop idol, Hyson on the set]

    Below were the picture of He Rou and Hyson sitting close to each other.

    There was another headline.

    [Famous idol Hyson suspected to be dating Movie Queen He Rou. It seems love is brewing on the set.]

    There was another picture of He Rou touching Hyson''s head.

    "He is dating?" asked Elder Yue.

    Zhai Kuijun shook his head instinctively. "How is that possible? These headlines look so suspicious. I don''t believe a word of it."

    "Why? Do you know him that well?" asked Elder Yue curiously.

    "It''s not that I know him very well," said Zhai Kuijun. "But I heard from Yanjun that he isn''t interested in dating. Besides, these paparazzi have nothing better to do. These marketing ounts are looking for trouble. From what I heard, Yue Fai has never had a scandal since he debuted. Not even a fake one. All because Raelle and Mu Chenyan are too protective of him. They are gutsy for wanting to go head-on with people like Raelle and Mu Chenyan."

    He shook his head with a look of schadenfreude.

    Hearing this, Elder Yue''s eyes shed as he said, "Do you know that Yue Lan got into trouble with Yue Yue?"

    Zhai Kuijun stopped talking and looked at Elder Yue saying, "I''m not interested in knowing about her affairs."

    "Don''t take me wrong," started Elder Yue. "I''m not informing you to take pity on her. In fact, there is nothing to sympathize with here. She brought it upon herself. She thought she''d go against Ah-Yue as she always did and win. No matter how unreasonable she was. But she didn''t realize that Ah-Yue was no longer the same Ah-Yue. She won''t take the loss this time silently. At least, the people around her won''t allow it." He sighed, "She is banned by the party. She won''t be joining the office anymore and won''t be able to get the ticket for the elections. In short, her politician career is over before it can even begin."

    Zhai Kuijun raised his brow when heard the details of the matter and was actually very pleased by this oue.

    "I didn''t think Mu Chenyan would for the one-shot kill," said Zhai Kuijun.

    "It''s not Mu Chenyan who did it," said Elder Yue. "It''s Xia Zhao."

    Zhai Kuijun frowned incredulously before his eyes widened, "You mean that Xia Zhao?" Elder Yue nodded his head. "How does Yue know him? Isn''t he always living in seclusion? Doesn''t like to socialize, has little interests in world affairs and almost looks like a immortal who keeps himself clean from the dirt of this world."

    "You know him?"

    "Not really."

    "Anyway, it''s that Xia Zhao who is behind Yue Lan''s misfortune."

    "But why would he do that?"

    "Yue Lan said he did it for Yue Yue. That''s why I asked you. I thought you''d know how they are rted."

    "I don''t know," said Zhai Kuijun. "Is it possible that he is Yue Fai''s father?"

    Elder Yue almost rolled his eyes at Zhai Kuijun. "Where did that thoughte from?"

    Zhai Kuijun shrugged, "I am just taking a blind shot here."

    "Kuijun, you really don''t know who Yue Fai''s father is?" asked Elder Yue.

    "I don''t," replied Zhai Kuijun affirmatively. "I asked Yue but she didn''t give me a clear answer. I told you. It''s like she just doesn''t want to talk about it and I don''t want to remind her of her pain by talking about it."

    "Have you thought that maybe it''s not the pain she is avoiding but something else?"

    "Huh? What do you mean?"

    "What if the identity of her son''s father is difficult to bring up?" asked Elder Yue. "Maybe she knows that by talking about it she''d be ruining the peace of someone''s family and that''s why she is keeping quiet."

    Zhai Kuijun contemted those words and felt very odd in his heart.

    "Elder Yue, what do you know?" asked Zhai Kuijun. "Do you know who Fai''s father is?"

    "What if I do? Do you want to know?"

    "Yes," replied Zhai Kuijun.

    "Why?" Elder Yue stared at Zhai Kuijun. "Why do you want to know Kuijun? Why does it concern you so much?"

    "Because I want to know who made her suffer for so long. From the moment I first met her and saved her from bullies, I promised myself that I''d do everything in my power to protect her because I didn''t like seeing her crying. Of course, I want to know why she had to suffer."

    "Will you be able to take it?" asked Elder Yue further. "Is your heart strong enough to know the truth of this matter?"

    "I don''t understand what you''re saying. Why are you asking me this? My heart is obviously strong enough for this. I promise it won''t give up so soon." Taking a pause, he asked with a pleading, "So, please, tell me who is Fai''s father?"

    "You," replied Elder Yue straightforwardly.

    Zhai Kuijun staggered a little and had to sit back down on his chair.

    "It''s you. Yue Fai is your son," added Elder Yue. "Don''t you already find it odd why Fai looks like Yanjun? Even if they are cousins, they shouldn''t share such resemnce."

    Zhai Kuijun felt like his mind exploded with this information. The sound of thunder in his head was too overwhelming and he found it difficult to even focus on anything right now. He was so taken aback that he forgot to react. How was he supposed to react? He suddenly forgot everything.

    He was in so much disbelief that he looked at Elder Yue trying to see if he was lying or not but clearly, Elder Yue wasn''t lying.

    "It''s hard to believe? Why do you think Yue Lan got the chance to kick Yue Yue out of the family? What else could she use against her except that her own sister slept with her husband? It was the perfect strike that even I couldn''t save Yue Yue."

    Zhai Kuijun''s heart clenched when he heard.

 Chapter 1002: Master Xians Untamed Wife

    Chapter 1002: Master Xian''s Untamed Wife"B¨¤, you''re home?" Raelle looked at Shui Koshing and waved at him. "Are you tired? How about I massage your shoulders?"

    Shui Koshing looked at her in surprise, "What''s going on? Why is my daughter-inw suddenly so enthusiastic?"

    "Isn''t it because she is feeling guilty for making you work?" said Shui Xian in amusement. "B¨¤, if she is offering. Take the offer and let her massage your shoulders."

    "How is that right? Our Raelle shouldn''t tire herself with this stuff," said Shui Koshing dotingly. "You just focus on resting properly. I might be old but I can still handle this much work."

    "B¨¤, sorry for the sudden proposal. It really made you run around for the whole day."

    Shui Koshing chuckled and went to rub her face lovingly, "Aiyo, how can my daughter-inw be so cute? I can''t even bear to say anything harsh to you on normal days. Why would I do it today when I''m going crazy from happiness? Do you know I almost twisted my old back from dancing in excitement when I heard that you proposed to my son? For the first time, I can see some value in a useless son. At least, he did something right in his life."

    "You didn''t have to strike me down while praising my wife," said Shui Xian. "Without me, you won''t have this daughter-inw."

    "Why else did I say you have some value?" retorted Shui Koshing. He looked at Raelle with a pampering look as he went on, "Thank you for epting our family!"

    "I epted it long ago," said Raelle. "Aren''t you my B¨¤? How can I still be a stranger to this family?"

    Shui Koshing smiled happily to hear that.

    "I''m gonna change my clothes and then let''s sit together. We haven''t been spending time with each other because of how busy I had been. I have some time today," saying that Shui Koshing turned to go to his room.

    Shui Xian looked at his wife and said, "Baby, he doesn''t want a massage, how about you knead my shoulders a little?"

    "Hey! How dare you make our Raelle work?" came Shui Koshing''s voice.

    "B¨¤, I''m talking to my wife!" Shui Xian shot back.

    Raelle actually went to stand behind Shui Xian and put her hands on his shoulders, Shui Xian ced his hands above hers and said helplessly, "Honey, I was just joking with you. You don''t actually have to do it."

    "No?" she asked.

    "No," he replied. He pulled her around to sit on his legs as he hugged her and said, "Don''t always take everything seriously."

    "Oh."

    As he leaned his head against her, Raelle suddenly asked, "Why are you easily satisfied?"

    "Huh? I''m easily satisfied?" asked Shui Xian in confusion. "Why do you say that?"

    "I just proposed and you''re grinning like a fool," said Raelle. "You did it when I gave you the guitar as well. I don''t think I did anything grand. I didn''t put much thought into the proposal as well. What are you so happy about? Our wedding? But why? Even without the proposal, we were holding a wedding ceremony. And even without the wedding ceremony, we are married. I''m already yours."

    "You''re mine," he repeated. "That''s for sure but this time, the difference is that the whole world knows you''re mine. How can it be the same? As for me grinning like a fool, don''t you know I''m a fool for you? So, whatever you do is enough to make me act like a fool even more. How can I help it?"

    "You''re so eager to tell the whole world that I''m yours?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head as he held her hand and yed with her slender fingers. "I feel like everyone should know that Raelle Xiang is taken. What if they got any unnecessary ideas?"

    "No, I should be worried about that," said Raelle. "Because I don''t attract people. It''s you who has bees buzzing around you wherever you go."

    Shui Xian scratched the tip of his nose sheepishly, "I don''t do it purposely. It''s really not my fault. My eyes are only on you. Always." He took a pause and added, "Besides, you might not know but there are a lot of admirers of you as well. It''s just that your aura and status deter them away. They know they can''t tame you so they walk away."

    "Oh? I''m that untamed? Then what about Master Xian? How did you tame Raelle Xiang?"

    "I didn''t," he replied solemnly. "I just loved this untamed beauty to the point that she willingly became mine."

    "So proud of yourself, Master Xian?"

    "I can''t help it. I feel like it is my life''s biggest achievement."

    "Oh?"

    "It''s true," he nodded. "Besides, baby, between the two of us. If anyone is tamed, then that person is me. I never intended to tame you. You''re never the submissive type. And I never wanted to make you one either. Yes, you''re naturally very obedient when the time asked for it but that didn''t hide your wild nature."

    "I think I''m pretty tamed," said Raelle. "Have you seen my Yanyan? That''s what an untamed beauty looks like."

    "I''ll call her feral!"

    Seeing Raelle looking at him, he shut up and hid his smile. "Anyway, isn''t it the truth that the domineering party between us is actually you? I''m just a very obedient husband following behind my wife."

    "So, should I start calling myself, Master Xian''s untamed wife now?"

    "Oh, not bad,"mented Shui Xian. "You can be whatever you want to be. I''ll just support you as always."

    "You''re so easily convinced?"

    "I told you, I''m a very obedient husband. How can I dare go against my wife''s words?"

    "You''re making me sound very bad."

    "No way. I''mplimenting you from my heart. From the deepest part of my heart." He took a pause and kissed her cheek saying, "By the way, I love that title. Master Xian''s untamed wife."

    "Just because it makes it clear that I''m your wife?" asked Raelle exposing his thoughts and he grinned without feeling embarrassed at being seen through by her.

    "I should also im what is mine," he said. "How can I always allow you to take the im? I should also get a little chance, no?"

 Chapter 1003: To Be His

    Chapter 1003: To Be His"I think I made very clear even to the whole world that I''m yours," said Raelle which made Shui Xian just stare at her.

    Of course, she did.

    He once told her he wanted to tell the whole world she was his, and she went to literally scream to the whole world that she belonged to him.

    "You really put some great effort into this announcement," said Shui Xian. "Everypany under your banner made an announcement. And every single person who has ever worked with you came out to congratte making it seem like a big deal. You did with enough fanfare."

    "Don''t you like it?" asked Raelle. "This way, even the people who haven''t heard my name would eventually see the news of my marriage." She looked at him and went on, "You''re not half bad yourself, hubby. I heard you distributed gift hampers to your employees. And there is even a lucky draw happening on Weibo."

    Shui Xian shrugged, "I actually prepared those things from the moment we decided to hold the wedding ceremony. You said we''d be disclosing our rtionship, so I prepared things. Now, they came in handy earlier."

    "You do know that I never understood your excitement for our wedding ceremony, right?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "I know. So, what about now? Do you understand my excitement now? Rte to it?"

    Raelle shook her head, "I still don''t understand it. I really can''t rte to you at all. But I can tell you that now, I''m looking forward to wearing my wedding dress and walking down the aisle with you."

    Shui Xian was actually satisfied with this answer and pinched her nose lovingly.

    "Looking at you, I can''t believe we havee so far together," said Shui Xian. "It''s only been months but I feel like it''s been years since we''ve been together. I can still recall the time when we met at the masquerade party."

    "I remember that too," said Raelle. "You looked so unapproachable sitting all alone giving off the heavy vibes that screamed, ''Stay away from me!''"

    Shui Xian chuckled, "And yet you didn''t listen and approached me on your own."

    "Let''s just say I wanted to try something new," was Raelle''s response. "I wasn''t particrly keen on learning about you. But when you chose to not disclose your identity and even said all the bad things about yourself, I knew I had to do what you didn''t want me to do at that time." He raised his brow at her inquisitively as she added, "Walking into your life."

    Shui Xian shook his head at her saying, "I should say thank you for going against me back then."

    "You''re wee," replied Raelle. "You''d have missed out on a gem like me if I had walked away as per your wishes."

    "Damn! I can''t evenugh at this because it''s so damn true!" said Shui Xian. "That would have been the biggest loss of my life. Once again, baby, thank you for walking towards me and not away from me."

    "It just proves that I Raelle Xiang have a good eye for people."

    Shui Xianughed at her words but still nodded, "Yes, yes. I''m the blind one. My wife is awesome."

    "You can''t be blind. How else would you see my awesomeness?"

    "I forgot about that for a moment. I''m so forgetful."

    "Maybe you''re getting old, hubby."

    "Oh, is that so, wifey?" his hands started wandering on her waist making her look at her.

    "Stop ying a hooligan in the daytime?"

    "I thought my wife loved to do this in the daytime."

    "You''re getting back at me for the changing room incident?"

    "What if I am?"

    "Then you''re very petty."

    Shui Xian bit her cheek and said, "Don''t always provoke me."

    "I do nothing. You just have bad self-control."

    "I should work on it?"

    Raelle shook her head, "No, I like it as it is. You don''t have to have any self-control when ites to me."

    "Baby, you know what it felt like when you walked into my life?"

    "Pray tell!"

    "It felt like the biggest plot twist of my life," he said.

    "Good one, I believe."

    "The best one."

    "Good to know that."

    "What are you two doing?"

    Both of them looked back at Shui Koshing and said simultaneously, "Talking."

    Shui Koshing heard thest bit of their conversation so he gave them a very odd look but didn''t say anything about it. There was no need to do so. These two could do whatever they wanted. He was just happy seeing them happy.

    All of them had dinner together and after that Shui Koshing suggested, "Raelle, do you want to eat some desserts? How about we all go for some ice cream cake?"

    Raelle paused and didn''t respond immediately.

    "You don''t want to go out?"

    "No, there is no problem with that," said Raelle. "The problem is with the ice cream cake. This dessert is confused about it''s self identity. It''s neither ice cream nor cake and yet it''s both at the same time. Does it make sense? What if I became confused after eating it?"

    "I think you already are," was Shui Xian''s response.

    "Then we''ll eat whatever you want."

    "There is no need to go out," said Shui Xian. "Aunt Yue sent some chiffon cake. We can just have that."

    Shui Koshing agreed and asked the maid to bring it for them. While talking about their day and some random things, Shui Koshing suddenly asked, "Raelle, I''ve been wondering to ask you. What made you propose to my son?"

    "I have spent most of my life following a pattern," said Raelle. "I never really had a wish or a goal in mind. Let''s say after meeting Xian, I found my wish." She looked at him and said, "I suddenly wanted to be his. So, I had to do everything possible to let everyone know that too."

    Shui Koshing gave his son a look as hemented, "My son really got lucky."

    Meanwhile, Shui Xian was still in a bit of a daze. He was already not able to ovee the impact of seeing her getting on her knee to propose to him and now, these words yet. He had been trying to hold it in but whenever she did, he really couldn''t hold back his tears. He was such an embarrassment.

 Chapter 1004: Cringe

    Chapter 1004: CringeAfter making a trip to the military base to meet hermander, Xiang Wai didn''t know where to go when she suddenly nned to go find her boyfriend. Lately, he had beening to find her whenever he had time, so today she decided to go and look for him instead.

    Thinking of this, she changed her direction and drove toward the old military training ground. Arriving at her destination, she just had to go through an identity check and she was let in.

    As she walked in, she could hear the voices of trainees.

    She looked at the young trainees who looked very weak and were barely holding up. They were in such a bad state that she thought something might happen to them. But of course, instructors knew their limits too at this time, a whistle rang out as a loud voice, "Take a break!"

    Once that loud voice was done, everyone fell to the ground as if they were dominoes. Xiang Wai found it kinda funny. But she didn''tugh and instead, kept her posture straight and let out her awe-inspiring aura.

    "Major Xiang!" The instructor found Xiang Wai and gave her a proper salute.

    "You don''t have to do that," said Xiang Wai. "I''m still on break."

    The instructor didn''t listen and made his attitude clear.

    "Is Major looking for our Captain?"

    "Yes," replied Xiang Wai. "I''m looking for Captain Zhai. I don''t see him here. Isn''t he here?"

    A few of the soldiers shared a look and they avoided her eyes making Xiang Wai frown slightly. "Is everything okay?"

    The instructor standing in front of her chose to answer, "Captain is in the infirmary."

    "What? Why? Did he get injured?" But then she denied her own words. How was it possible to get injured while training a few college students from the Performing Arts College? She didn''t think it was possible. "What''s going on?"

    "A student got injured and Captain had to take her to the infirmary," replied the instructor while praying silently for his Captain right now.

    "Being a Captain, he had to do it all himself?" asked Xiang Wai with a smile. "How interesting." With that, she walked towards the infirmary as the smile vanished from her face instantly making her look really scary.

    Feeling the coldness emanating from her, all the soldiers gathered around and whispered, "Do you think Captain is gonna be in trouble? I have heard that Major Xiang likes to talk with her fists a lot more. I pray for Captain''s safety."

    "Don''t talk nonsense!" said the instructor to these gossiping men and women. "Captain did nothing wrong."

    "We know that," said one of the female soldiers. "But Major doesn''t know that. You know, women can find a bone even in eggs if they want to. You shouldn''t underestimate their ability to make a mountain out of a molehill."

    "Stop talking and get back to your positions!"

    On the other side, Xiang Wai arrived at the infirmary and heard a very sweet voice calling out, "Yanjun Gege, it hurts."

    Xiang Wai cringed at that sticky sweet voice. It was very ufortable.

    "If you cooperate with the doctor, it won''t hurt!" came Zhai Yanjun''s voice from inside, and from Xiang Wai''s experience she could tell he was very impatient right now.

    "I''m scared," said the girl in an even sweeter voice.

    Xiang Wai got curious to know what was so scary so she walked inside to see. She almost cursed when she realized that the girl''s ankle was slightly grazed. You get it? It was barely even bleeding! What the fuck was scary about that?

    Xiang Wai felt her temper rising up when she realized it.

    The girl tried to hold Zhai Yanjun''s hand when the doctor was applying the antiseptic on her teeny tiny wound but Xiang Wai walked over before her brain could stop her and held those sticky paws from approaching her boyfriend.

    Did she look like a radish? Or a bloody vase?

    How could anyone just assume they could take advantage of her boyfriend?

    "Ah!" the girl screamed in pain before Xiang Wai''s grip wasn''t gentle. Not gentle at all. It was just as hard as her. "Who are you? How dare you hurt me?!" Her eyes instantly tear up as if the tears would fall at hermand and it really made Xiang Wai want to apud her talent. Seeing this, she couldn''t really evoke the feeling of protectiveness towards the fairer sex!

    Bleh! She was also the fairer sex here!

    And she felt nothing for this actress!

    "Yanjun Gege, she hurt me," said the girl looking at Zhai Yanjun andining with her pitiful look.

    Zhai Yanjun was stunned for a moment because he didn''t expect to see Xiang Wai here and when he registered that she was really here, he was too happy to even pay attention to the injured girl. He held Xiang Wai''s hand and took out a wet wipe to clean her hand saying, "What are you doing touching anything? What if it''s dirty?"

    The girl was stunned shock to hear that and forgot to continue her act.

    Xiang Wai gave him a contented look before saying, "Who asked her to extend her hands towards what''s mine?" With that, she even shot a re at the girl who was still sitting frozen.

    Zhai Yanjun patted her head as if soothing the ruffled fur of his precious cat and said, "It''s okay. No one can touch what''s yours. Stop frowning." He pressed on the crease between her brows. "Wait for me for a minute." Then he turned to girl and said, "Miss Du, if you can''t handle the training, I can let themander know about this. Your injury isn''t serious. But if you insist that you''re in pain, we can send you the military hospital for a check up." Saying that, he turned to the doctor, "You should send her to the hospital."

    Then without waiting for the girl''s response, he pulled Xiang Wai out of there.

 Chapter 1005: Secret Lessons

    Chapter 1005: Secret LessonsZhai Yanjun and Xiang Wai hadn''t even gone far when they heard the sound of things falling on the ground along with the girl surnamed Du''s angry roar.

    But neither of them cared about that. Especially Zhai Yanjun who was busy pulling his girlfriend away from this ce.

    "Captain, you''ve gotten guts, eh?"

    Zhai Yanjun looked at Xiang Wai incredulously.

    "How dare you go around behind my back provoking bees and butterflies?"

    "Bee? I can agree with this, but butterfly? I don''t think she looks good enough to be called a butterfly."

    Xiang Wai''s expression also cracked because of his words and she pushed him against the wall. Looking at him, she said, "Don''t try to make meugh. Don''t even think about changing the subject. I am very serious at the moment." She crossed her arms in front of her chest, "I thought I''d give you a surprise but here, you''re the one giving me a surprise instead."

    Zhai Yanjun couldn''t help smiling as he kept looking at her.

    "What? What''s so funny? You still dare tough? Believe it or not, I''m gonna beat you up."

    "Oh, I believe," he said. "I never had any doubt about that."

    "Then why are you looking for trouble here?"

    "I''m not..." Before he could continue, he saw how her brow arched up and he sensibly changed his words, "It''s my fault. All my fault. I wasn''t sensible enough. But don''t be mad. I''ll do a better job in the future."

    "There is still a future?" she inquired.

    Zhai Yanjun shook his head, "No, no. I mean, it''ll never happen again. Yes, never ever! I won''t allow it!"

    Xiang Wai''s expression eased up slightly but she still didn''t forget to ask, "Who is she?"

    "Du Xiao," answered Zhai Yanjun.

    "Why did you bring her to the infirmary? All the others were dead?"

    "She was giving everyone a headache," he answered again.

    "And why would you give in to her pestering?"

    "She is Commander Du''s niece. He asked me to take care of her."

    Xiang Wai red up, "Who is this Commander Du? Just because he is your superior, he can order you around to babysit brats like that? How dare he?"

    Zhai Yanjun actually found her reaction pretty funny but he didn''t dareugh. He knew he''d be in bigger trouble if he dared tough at his girlfriend while she was busy venting her dissatisfaction. "He is still themander. I have to give him some face."

    "So what if he is amander? Can he bully his juniors like this?" said Xiang Wai. "Why do you have to be scared of him? Do you even remember who your girlfriend is? Or did you forget who your girlfriend''s father is? That littlemander is even worthy to ask for favors from the General''s son-inw? It''s like putting gold on his face! Does he deserve that?"

    Zhai Yanjun was momentarily too shocked to even react at all. He couldn''t be med for that though. It really wasn''t his fault. Her words were just too shocking to him.

    "What are you staring at?" she asked when she noticed that he was looking at her.

    "Wai, from the moment you joined the military Academy, I had never seen you use your father''s name or his rank to oppress anyone or get favors. In fact, most of the time, you even avoided telling people that your father is Xiang Hulin. Because you didn''t want preferential treatment from anyone." Xiang Wai suddenly went silent when she heard that because she couldn''t deny it either. She indeed had never used her father''s name to get anything in her life. "Now, you''re actually willing to bring up your dad in this matter? I''m feeling really special right now."

    Xiang Wai cleared her throat unnaturally as she said, "You can feel special. Since you''re my boyfriend, it means it''s my responsibility to make you feel special."

    Zhai Yanjun pursed his lips and shook his head at her saying, "Are you taking some secret lessons from Raelle? This is definitely not your style."

    Xiang Wai avoided his eyes but still told him honestly, "I''ve been watching her for a while now. Of course, I''d pick a couple of things. For instance, no matter what asion, I should do my best to make my partner feel special. I should make sure that my boyfriend knows how important he is. Also, surprises in life are necessary. It''s okay to throw in a surprise on a dull day to make it special. Also, if you like someone then make sure you don''t let them get bullied by just anyone. It''s your job to protect them. That''s exactly what I''m doing right now."

    "You''re not mad at me?"

    "Did you hit on that girl or gave into her approaches?"

    "None."

    "Then why would I be mad? It''s not like it''s your fault that you''re so handsome and attractive and charming to young girls like those. It just means I have a good taste in men. I have no reason to be mad," said Xiang Wai almost startling Zhai Yanjun''s soul out. What the hell happened to his girlfriend? Was the influence of Raelle so big? He couldn''t wrap his head around this at all. "You know why I stopped her from touching you? Because then I''d have been mad. I was also got influenced by Raelle''s possessiveness. I can''t possibly let a fly touch my boyfriend."

    Zhai Yanjun grinned at her.

    "What? Why are you grinning now?" she asked as she looked at his foolish look.

    "I think the best decision of your life was to go to see your family," said Zhai Yanjun.

    "I also think so," said Xiang Wai. "But my decision of giving you a second chance wasn''t half bad either. You better don''t make me regret it."

    Zhai Yanjun hugged her waist and enclosed her in his arms as he looked into her eyes, "How can I make you regret choosing me again? Thank you for giving me this chance to be with you."

    "Okay, stop that now. We''re not taking thank yous anymore."

    Zhai Yanjun nodded his head and ced his head on her shoulder as he closed his eyes. Xiang Wai touched his head gently and felt a little heartache for him.

    "Tired?"

    "It wasn''t this tiring even when I was a cadet myself," he told her. "And it''s not physical tiredness. It''s my mind which is tired of dealing with these delicate beans from the College of the Performing Arts. Seeing their condition, I''m wondering what did they even do during the military training at the start of college."

    "Take it easy," said Xiang Wai. "It''s not like they are gonna be soldiers. You only have to make them look like decent soldiers so that they can pass off as real soldiers on the big screen. Don''t be so hard on yourself."

    "You think I''m giving them a hard time? I''m already being very nice here," said Zhai Yanjun. "They are still too weak. Half of the girls couldn''t even run half ap when they first got here. Even now, they dawdle around. It''s frustrating."

    "Well, not everyone can be cool like your girlfriend,"mented Xiang Wai.

    Zhai Yanjun lifted up his head andughed at herment before he nodded in agreement, "That''s for sure. How can anyone be like my Wai?" He held her hand and said, "Let''s go."

    "Oh, where are we going?"

    "To eat something," he said. "My girlfriend is here to see me. Am I supposed to just let her leave without a meal. How is that possible?"

    "Isn''t this a closed door training?" asked Xiang Wai. "You set the rules for others. You can''t break it yourself."

    "I am not going to," he said. "I''ll cook for you myself."

    "Will it be eatable? Don''t poison me. I still have a wedding to attend."

    "How can I poison you?" he asked. "Who else will stand with me at the alter in a white dress?"

    Xiang Wai hit his arm at his cheeky remark, "You''re really getting smooth now."

    "It''s not me, it''s you," he told her sincerely. "Seeing you, the words just keep gushing out of me. I have no control. None at all."

    Xiang Wai rolled her eyes at him. "Did you see my sister''s wedding proposal?"

    "Hm? I did," he answered. "I have to say, Xian is one lucky bastard."

    "Hey! Are you saying you''re the unfortunate one here?"

    "Who said that? Who?" Zhai Yanjun looked around as if looking for the culprit. "I definitely didn''t say that. I''m also very lucky. Even more than Xian. There is no doubt about that."

    Xiang Wai looked satisfied with this response, "Then let''s go and show me what new recipe you have mastered. It better be eatable!"

    "Yes, yes. It''ll be."

    He took her straight to the dormitory he was living in which had a special small kitchen inside of it. The perks of being in charge these days.

 Chapter 1006: Your Fathers Here

    Chapter 1006: Your Father''s HereZhai Yanjun spent quite some effort to cook a decent meal for his girlfriend. Xiang Wai was stunned since he did seem like he knew what he was doing. She didn''t think she could ever get used to this.

    "Try it and let me know how it is," said Zhai Yanjun as he looked at her eagerly. "Come on, have some. And give it a score. Also, tell me what needs to be improved."

    "Okay," she replied. She took the chopsticks and picked up a piece of chicken under his scorching gaze. She chewed slowly and had a look of surprise on her face when she realized that it wasn''t that bad. No, in fact, it tasted very good. "Oh, this scallion chicken is delicious."

    Zhai Yanjunughed happily, "I know, right? This is my Ayi''s secret recipe. She said it''s guaranteed to taste amazing."

    Xiang Wai raised her brows at him, "You learned it from Aunt Yue?"

    Zhai Yanjun nodded his head in response.

    "Should I give the credit to Aunt Yue then?" she asked teasingly.

    Zhai Yanjun smiled at her and shrugged, "I don''t mind. You can give credit to my Ayi." He took a pause and added, "Next time, I''ll make you crab noodles."

    "Why next time?" she asked.

    "I haven''t perfected it yet," said Zhai Yanjun as he scratched his nose. "I''m not as talented as you in this department."

    Xiang Wai smiled at him as she took another bite of rice. "But you''re hard-working Captain. I believe you won''t do badly."

    "I''ll keep trying my best, Major!"

    Xiang Wai chuckled as she continued to eat. She picked up the side dishes and liked them too. It could be seen that her Captain was truly doing his best to learn to cook for her. It really made her feel sweet. He was willing to do something he didn''t even like or had no interest in. Now, he had cooking books around his dormitory and even had a little notebook filled with points to remember.

    Xiang Wai couldn''t help smiling even brighter. She felt like this meal tasted extra fragrant and delicious. In fact, it wasn''t that she ever wanted him to work for her. It was just that he was willing to put his effort into something she liked.

    Since it was all for her, she liked it even more.

    "We are nning an engagement party for Raelle," informed Xiang Wai. "You have to be there. We are supposed to dance together."

    "We are gonna dance?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "Yes," replied Xiang Wai happily. "So, I''ll being over these days at night. We''ll practice for an hour. I can''t let people see my clumsy self."

    "You''re such a good dancer," said Zhai Yanjun sincerely. "It''s me who should be worried." He thought about something, "Oh, wait! I think this practice is for me, right? Because you don''t want me to embarrass you in front of everyone?"

    Xiang Wai shook her head, "Don''t speak nonsense. Remember we danced together in the military academy during a celebration? It was I who embarrassed myself, not you."

    Zhai Yanjun recalled it and nodded his head, "Indeed. But now that I think about it, I realized that you weren''t nervous because of the audience but because I was your dance partner. Because when you danced with Han after me, you certainly were in control."

    Xiang Wai did not expect him to catch on to that now after a decade. Did he really have to think about that so deeply? But it also warmed her heart to realize that he actually knew all their memories together and could even recall all the smallest details. And she always thought he didn''t care at all about the time they spent together.

    It seemed she wasn''t the only one who cherished those moments.

    "Am I right?" he asked curiously.

    "Stop staring at me and eat," she said instead of answering him. "You talk too much. Don''t you know you''re not supposed to talk while eating?"

    Zhai Yanjunughed at that because he could see she was trying to avoid talking about her embarrassing moments. So, he didn''t mention it but the curve of his lips never went down.

    Both of them ate the meal harmoniously and Xiang Wai even ended up overeating because she didn''t want to leave any leftovers. Zhai Yanjun rubbed her tummy saying, "You... Why did you have to stuff yourself like this?"

    "I was enjoying it," she argued.

    "You really worry me sometimes," he said. "I still can''t believe they named you as one of the best soldiers of the Special Armed Forces."

    "You''re doubting my ability?"

    He tapped her nose, "I''m just unable to understand how someone like you can be so level-headed in missions when in normal times you''re always emotionally charged and looking for a fight. And do silly things like stuffing yourself with so much food."

    "I have dual personality," she said. "The level-headed Wai onlyes out when she is needed. Otherwise she is toozy to face the world. So, I have to overtake. So, boyfriend, you have to deal with my dual personalities. You can do nothing about it. You lost your chance to run away from me."

    Zhai Yanjun was amused again by her words and sighed, "I don''t feel like running. I finally found my destination. Why would I want to run?"

    Xiang Wai blushed slightly under his gaze. She did not know her boyfriend could speak like that too. Sometimes, she really wanted to go and thank Shui Xian for being such a good tutor. He actually managed to turn her tight-lipped boyfriend into this passionate and sentimental man.

    "I told Opa that we are dating," said Xiang Wai.

    "And?"

    "And what? He already knew and yet gave me a surprised look saying, ''Really? You''re dating Yanjun? I didn''t even notice.''" She shook her head as she remembered that and added, "He is so bad at lying. At least Yanyan did slightly better than him at pretending like she knew nothing. But Raelle went, ''As if we didn''t know that.''"

    "Well, Raelle is Raelle. She won''t bother pretending," said Zhai Yanjun.

    "True. My sister seems to love honesty," said Xiang Wai.

    They talked for an hour before it was time for Xiang Wai to leave. She didn''t want to leave but she couldn''t stay for so long either. It was against the rules. So, she decided to reluctantly leave before she lost her conviction to step out of his embrace.

    She mentally pped herself for falling back into love with Zhai Yanjun so deeply, so easily and so soon! But then again, when did she even fall out of love? She was just deceiving herself.

    He walked her all the way to her car and everyone on the ground saw them walking together. Therades from the same unit weren''t surprised but the college students who were here for training were horrified to see that soft and doting smile on Zhai Yanjun''s face which usually emitted cold.

    Therades from the same unit had already seen this scene quite oftentely. Why else would they be having that knowing look when they saw Xiang Waiing to see Zhai Yanjun? There wasn''t anyone who didn''t know that Zhai Yanjun was dating Xiang Wai. It was like this news had wings as it spread far and wide.

    "Why don''t you tell me to stay?" asked Xiang Wai as she swayed his hand. "You don''t want me to stay?"

    "Wai, why don''t you stay?"

    "What''s the point of asking that now?" she grumbled. "I had to remind you to ask me to stay. You really don''t want me to stay at all."

    Zhai Yanjun frowned at her acting and finally asked, "What are you up to?"

    Xiang Wai dropped the act, "I always wanted to y the role of that unreasonable girlfriend."

    "Was it fun?"

    "No," she answered. "It''s not fun at all. It''s not fun even more since I know you can''t stop me from leaving. Gosh, why do I have to be such an understanding girlfriend? See? Captain, you won''t find a second one like me."

    "I don''t want one," he said. "I''m okay with only you." Xiang Wai was quite satisfied with that response. "No, maybe I''d like a second one."

    "What did you say?"

    He pinched her nose lovingly, "A cute daughter like doesn''t sound like a bad idea."

    Xiang Wai hit his arm, making himugh.

    "Are you looking for trouble?"

    "No," he replied. "Take care of yourself. And drive safely. There is no hurry to get home."

    "I know. I know. I''ll drive carefully. Geez!"

    She was tired of these reminders now. She wasn''t that bad of a driver, okay?!

    He rubbed her head and said, "Bye!"

    "Bye!" she said and drove away from there.

    Zhai Yanjun was still watching her leave when he received a call. He looked at his phone and frowned at the caller id. "Hello, what is going on, Harry?"

    "You shoulde to here," said the guy on the other side.

    "What''s wrong?"

    "Your father''s here," replied the guy.

 Chapter 1007: Heart Attack

    Chapter 1007: Heart AttackZhai Yanjun thought he heard wrong. He re-confirmed it and when he received the same response from Harry again, he couldn''t lie to himself that he was listening to it right. It was indeed his father, Zhai Kuijun about whom Harry was talking.

    "What is he doing there?" Zhai Yanjun couldn''t help asking incredulously.

    "That I don''t know but I can tell you that your father isn''t looking good right now. I''m seriously worried about him. I wouldn''t have called you if he didn''t look like this. So, you bettere over as fast as you can. If anything happened to your father, don''t say I didn''t warn you."

    Zhai Yanjun didn''t expect to hear this. He frowned deeply and hung up before saying, "I''ll be there in a while."

    He looked at his phone and contemted what to do. He couldn''t get out of there but he couldn''t not go to see his father either since, from Harry''s tone, he could tell how serious the matter was.

    He chose to directly call Xiang Hulin. And telling him that he had to find his father, Xiang Hulin agreed immediately and decided to get permission for him to leave the training grounds.

    Getting the green light, Zhai Yanjun rushed out of there and drove straight to the ce where his father was. And it was actually a bar. A bar where Zhai Yanjun often met with Shui Xian. It could be called their meet-up spot for years. That''s why the bar manager was also familiar with Zhai Yanjun and Shui Xian.

    As he entered the bar, he found Harry pacing around. "Finally, you''re here," Harry breathed a sigh of relief and directed him straight to where Zhai Kuijun had been drinking for hours now.

    Looking at his father''s destitute situation, Zhai Yanjun was taken aback and wondered out loud, "What happened to him?"

    "How would I know that?" Retorted Harry.

    Zhai Yanjun didn''t argue with that since he knew his question was really redundant. How would Harry really know why Zhai Kuijun was here. He only called because he was worried for him. And from seeing Zhai Kuijun''s situation, Zhai Yanjun could tell why he was worried. Even he was startled.

    "Thanks for letting me know, bro!" Zhai Yanjun sincerely thanked Harry whoughed it off.

    "Let me know if you need any help," said Harry before he walked away.

    Zhai Yanjun turned to sit beside his father and continued to stare at this old man who was drunk out of his mind right now. Zhai Yanjun had never seen his old man like this. Even when he fought with his wife all the time, he had never seen Zhai Kuijun looking this way. It was like he had taken a big shock. Zhai Yanjun couldn''t understand the situation because he thought everything was fine in their lives.

    Or maybe it was just him whose life was going too well and he thought everyone around him was also happy.

    "Dad!" Zhai Yanjun called out to get his father''s attention. He had to do it since he sat there for 20 minutes in silence but Zhai Kuijun didn''t even notice his presence.

    Zhai Kuijun looked up and saw Zhai Yanjun''s bleary figure. "Oh, my son! It''s my son."

    His slurring really gave Zhai Yanjun a headache.

    "Son, why are there six of you?"

    Okay, it''s official! This situation was worse than he thought. But what was really going on here?!

    "I''m only one," replied Zhai Yanjun. "You only have one son!"

    Zhai Kuijun instantly fell silent and looked so sad that even ended up affecting Zhai Yanjun''s emotions. He never knew sadness could be this infectious. But what was really going on here? Why was his father sad over the fact that he had only one son?

    "One son?" repeated Zhai Kuijun in a barely audible voice. He suddenlyughed out loud, but theughter was filled with sadness and helplessness. In the end, theughter turned into crying which caught Zhai Yanjun off guard.

    "Dad," Zhai Yanjun held his father''s figure and asked, "What is wrong with you? Why are you crying?"

    "I don''t know," replied Zhai Kuijun. "There is nothing else I can do."

    Zhai Yanjun really couldn''t understand him at all. He knew it was a tough job to talk to a drunkard. He shouldn''t even bother. What was the point of this conversation when one was drunk out of his mind? So, he immediately called for a server and asked to buy a sobering drink for Zhai Kuijun and also for some water.

    He first fed his father some water and then he made him drink the sobering drink. After he was done, he dragged his father out of the bar and took him to a hotel. After taking him to the room, heid him down to rest before he went to order some warm soup for his father through room service.

    To be honest, it was his first time caring for his father. And he actually didn''t know what to do at all. But he couldn''t leave his father alone. He couldn''t send him home either because his grandparents would worry.

    He waited for half an hour before Zhai Kuijun woke up. With his head buzzing, he looked around at the unfamiliar ce and scrunched his face.

    "You''re up?" asked Zhai Yanjun when he noticed the movement. "I say, old man, aren''t you very gutsy? Do you even realize that you almost got taken advantage of at the bar? You should be d that the manager knew me and saved you. Or else, you''d wake up in somedy''s bed, and then you''d have to take responsibility as well."

    Zhai Kuijun didn''t seem to hear any of that. He was just staring at his son intently.

    "What are you looking at? Is something on my face?"

    Zhai Kuijun shook his head, "Now that I know the truth. I can see even more resemnce."

    "Huh?" Zhai Yanjun did not get any of that. Not at all. "Dad, are you okay?" asked Zhai Yanjun in worry. "You''re really worrying me right now."

    "I''m fine. I just have a headache," answered Zhai Kuijun.

    "Who asked you to drink so much? Serves you right!" Even though he said it, Zhai Yanjun still brought the warm soup for him to drink saying, "Drink it and warm up your stomach. It''ll help with you sobering up."

    Zhai Kuijun smiled slightly seeing this gesture of his son. He had to say, it wasn''t half bad when he found that his son was so concerned about him.

    As he drank the soup in silence, Zhai Yanjun kept his eyes on him trying to see something. Who knew what he was trying to see though? No one could tell but it was obvious that even though he couldn''t find anything, Zhai Yanjun insisted on just staring at his father''s face. As if he was trying to stare down his defenses.

    "What is it?" asked Zhai Kuijun.

    "I should be asking you that question," said Zhai Yanjun. "What is up with you? It''s not like you to look for alcohol to escape problems. I have never had it in my life. What shocked you to the point that ran to alcohol?"

    Zhai Kuijun''s expression faltered as he sighed, "You should be d that you found your father in a bar and not lying in a hospital from a heart attack." Only he knew how much he had to take control of his emotions. Or else, the shock was indeed big enough to give him a stroke. He really didn''t know how he managed to avoid that situation.

    "Dad, what are you saying? Can you say something nice? How can you curse yourself like this?"

    Seeing how he worried his son, Zhai Kuijun felt a little embarrassed and guilty. He really shouldn''t talk like that with his son.

    "You know you can tell me anything right?" Zhai Yanjun tried to calmlymunicate with his father. He learned the benefits of healthymunication only recently. So, he believed it was necessary tomunicate in any rtionship. He should try that with his own father too and see where it goes. "I don''t know what''s bothering you but I can see that you are not in a good situation. And I don''t like seeing you like this. Maybe we don''t have the best rtionship in the world as a father and son but I still believe we can tell each other anything."

    Zhai Kuijun smiled at his son and nodded, "My son has gotten wiser. It''s good to see that you''ve learned to open up."

    "We are talking about you here," said Zhai Yanjun. "Don''t try to change the topic here. I''m really worried here. Please tell me what is wrong?"

    "I..." Zhai Kuijun couldn''t continue from there. He really couldn''t. He was still in disbelief and didn''t know how much it would affect Zhai Yanjun. He didn''t know the damage it could do to his son but it won''t be small, right? After all, even he was shocked beyond belief and couldn''t ept the reality. "I don''t know what to tell you or if I can really tell or whether I should really tell you anything at all."

    Zhai Yanjun wasn''t expecting such a response from his father. Why did he feel like his father was actually scared to tell him whatever was bothering him?

 Chapter 1008: In A Relationship

    Chapter 1008: In A RtionshipZhai Yanjun wasn''t wrong though, Zhai Kuijun was indeed scared. He was scared to tell Zhai Yanjun about this matter. He couldn''t believe it at all until now that he had another son. It wasn''t like he wasn''t willing to ept this fact.

    The thing that really bothered him was that only now he understood how he became the reason why Yue Yue had to suffer so much. He couldn''t deal with that truth. He always wanted to protect her but ended up bing the reason for all her hardships. She lost everything because of him and he knew nothing.

    He didn''t know anything even right now. He didn''t know how it happened or where it happened. Truthfully, he had no memory of such an incident. None at all.

    In fact, the only silver lining in this whole matter was Hyson''s existence. Just remembering that bright and clever little devil, Zhai Kuijun felt like he could handle this much.

    "Dad!" Zhai Yanjun called his father but got no response. So, he shook him to get back his attention. Zhai Kuijun snapped out of it and looked at his son in confusion. "Where are you lost? I''m asking you something here."

    "Your dad is really lost, Yanjun," said Zhai Kuijun. "I can''t find a way out right now."

    "If you won''t tell me anything, how will I help you?" asked Zhai Yanjun. "Why are you even hesitating?"

    Why won''t he be hesitating? He knew Zhai Yanjun liked Hyson a lot but until now, it was because he thought Hyson was his cousin. But what would happen when he learned that Hyson was actually his half-brother? Would he be able to ept this? Would he me him for this? Would he start hating Hyson or Yue Yue?

    There were so many questions but Zhai Kuijun had no answer to any of those questions right now.

    Sighing heavily, Zhai Kuijun finally spoke up, "Yanjun, would you like to have a little brother or sister?"

    Zhai Yanjun stared at his father weirdly before he ended upughing. "Dad, are you in a rtionship? Is that why you''re so scared to tell me about this? How old am I? Why would I care if you want to be in a rtionship again? I can''t ask you to spend your whole life alone. I believe you already wasted way too many years hesitating. If you like someone, go for it. I don''t mind at all. I''m here to support you. If your partner is too young, I might feel a little odd but then again, if you''re happy, I don''t care."

    Zhai Kuijun pped his shoulder, "What the hell are you talking about?"

    "What? Isn''t it a trend for middle-aged men to keep sugar babies these days? I heard college girls are into that."

    "You''re really looking for a beating now," said Zhai Kuijun. "I''m serious here. Do you think your dad is a creep? Why would I even be into young girls who are even younger than my own son? I haven''t lost my mind yet."

    "Dad, don''t say outside. Or people will start cursing you for being against love. Don''t you know that love has no age? You can''t just question someone''s rtionship because of age!"

    "Yanjun!"

    "Yes?"

    "Shut up!"

    Zhai Yanjun finally stopped speaking nonsense when he noticed how managed to rile up his father. It looked better than his depressed state so he didn''t mind this anger at all. In fact, it looked pleasing to him.

    Zhai Kuijun drank some water to calm himself down before saying, "I''m seriously asking you whether you''d like to have a sibling?"

    "Dad, why would I mind it?" asked Zhai Yanjun. "I''m past the age where I''d be against having a sibling."

    "And what if you already have one?" inquired Zhai Kuijun tentatively.

    Zhai Yanjun''s attention was grabbed as he pulled the chair and got closer to his father asking, "Dad, are you saying I have a sibling? Do you have an illegitimate child that no one knows about?"

    "Don''t call him an illegitimate child!"

    Zhai Yanjun was startled and scratched his head as he said, "Sorry. I didn''t mean it as a bad thing. I''m really sorry. You''re really protective all of a sudden. It''s making me curious about this sibling I know nothing about." He took a pause as he rubbed his chin, "It''s interesting how I knew nothing about it until now. Dad, you hid it well. But I understand why you''d do that. If mom knew about it, it''d have been a disaster. You must have wanted to avoid that, eh?"

    Zhai Kuijun sighed as he said, "Hid it well? Indeed, she hid it too well that even I knew nothing."

    Zhai Yanjun almost spurted out the water in his mouth when he heard his father saying. Wiping his mouth, he looked at his father, "You mean to say that you also didn''t know you have another child?" Zhai Yanjunughed at that. "Wow! Dad, what the hell?"

    "Right. What the hell?! I''m the father! I should know this! But tragically, I am learning this from the most unexpected person. I''m still trying to wrap my head around this news and you''re making it worse right now, son. So, not helping!"

    "Sorry," said Zhai Yanjun. "I just can''t help it. Who asked you to live such a dramatic life? I mean, there is a living person with your blood running through his veins and you know nothing about it?"

    Zhai Yanjun''s attitude was getting on Zhai Kuijun''s nerves so he ended up saying, "It''s not as if I''m the only oblivious one here. Even you knew nothing while hanging out with that person."

    Zhai Yanjun was stunned as he stared at his father in disbelief. He pointed at himself, "You mean to say that I''ve actually met that person? My own sibling?"

    Zhai Kuijun nodded his head, "More precisely, you have met your half-brother."

    Zhai Yanjun blinked at his father and then blinked some more in silence. Okay, this was awkward now.

 Chapter 1009: Why Now?

    Chapter 1009: Why Now?Zhai Yanjun couldn''tugh anymore. Hisughter was all gone and he turned serious. At first, he could take it very casually because even if there was another child of his father, he had nothing to do with it. At most, they''d see each other for their father''s inheritance but Zhai Yanjun had never had any interest in his father''s property so it didn''t really matter to him.

    But now, the situation took a drastic turn.

    He couldn''t avoid this situation because he seemed to know this half-brother. How did he know him? Why didn''t he know?

    But then he looked at his father and narrowed his eyes, feeling a little ease at heart knowing that even his own father didn''t know. Why would he know?

    However, now, he was really curious about who that person was.

    "Who is it?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    Zhai Kuijun''s lips parted but nothing came out. Nothing at all. It was as if the words were stuck in his throat and he just couldn''t spit them out no matter how hard he tried. It was like an impossible task. But he was already at this point, how could he hide it from Zhai Yanjun?

    He really didn''t want to hide it from his son.

    He was just worried about Yue Yue and Hyson. He didn''t want Zhai Yanjun to hate the two of them. He believed in his son but it was difficult to grasp a human heart.

    "Dad, why is it so difficult to say?" asked Zhai Yanjun in confusion. "Do you think I''ll hurt him?"

    "You can''t hurt him," said Zhai Kuijun honestly,

    "Are you saying I am weak?"

    "No, your backing is weaker than his," was Zhai Kuijun''s response. After all, Hyson had the whole Xiang family behind him. He had seen what he meant to that family. Even Elder Xiang called Hyson his little prince which was enough to indicate his status in that family.

    He even had the backing of Mu Chenyan who doted on him with no scruples. And with that, he even recalled how Hyson always called Mu Chenyan his father and it left a very bad taste in his mouth. It was truly uneptable the more he thought about it but he really couldn''t do anything about Mu Chenyan either. He was no match for her.

    "Are you looking down on your son?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "Son, your half-brother''s name is Yue Fai also known as Hyson."

    Zhai Yanjun''s eyes widened as if he was struck by lightning. He was frozen in his seat as he kept staring at his father for a long while. Zhai Kuijun also observed him as if waiting for something to happen but strangely, there was no severe reaction from Zhai Yanjun. At most, he looked shocked out of his mind but apart from that, there was nothing else.

    Zhai Kuijun waited and waited and waited some more but there was still no reaction from Zhai Yanjun.

    "Yanjun! Yanjun! YANJUN!"

    "Huh?" Zhai Yanjun looked at his father. "What is it? What happened? I think I was hallucinating just now and heard you say that Fai is my brother."

    Seeing himughing so awkwardly, Zhai Kuijun felt like his eyes stung from this sight.

    Noticing how Zhai Kuijun didn''t react to his words, Zhai Yanjun fell silent. He silently contemted for a while before he faced his father, "You''re telling me that Yue Fai is actually my half-brother. As if Ayi gave birth to your son?"

    Zhai Kuijun lowered his head but nodded.

    "How is that possible?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "I don''t know either," replied Zhai Kuijun. "I have yet to learn about what really happened because I have no such memory."

    "Then how do you know?"

    "Your grandfather told me," answered Zhai Kuijun.

    Zhai Yanjun''s eyes widened again, "Grandfather Yue actually told you this? Why? How did that happen? I thought he always took mom''s side. If he threw out Ayi to keep this secret, why spill it in front of you now? Does it even make sense?"

    "Maybe because he is feeling guilty," replied Zhai Kuijun. "Seeing that Yue Yue lost her voice had struck him. His health had been going down since he learned about that. So, for thest time, he felt like he needed to do something for Yue Yue."

    "But if Ayi wanted this truth toe out, she wouldn''t have waited for so long," said Zhai Yanjun.

    His reaction baffled Zhai Kuijun for a moment. He could feel any resentment or reluctance from Zhai Yanjun. None at all.

    He seemed too calm and rational that Zhai Kuijun was momentarily at a loss.

    "Yanjun, aren''t you mad?"

    "About what?"

    "About the fact that Yue Fai is your half-brother?"

    "Why would I be mad about that?" asked Zhai Yanjun in confusion.

    "I thought you''d have some resentment towards Yue Yue. You''d think that she ruined the rtionship between your parents and took your chance for having aplete family."

    Zhai Yanjun gave his father an odd look, "Dad, you think too much. In all honesty, your and mom''s rtionship had never anything to do with Ayi. You both had your differences from the beginning. With or without Ayi, you both won''t be able to keep this rtionship. In fact, in my opinion, as long Ayi was around mom''s focus was on her and you both had the illusion of having happy married life. But once she was out of the picture, your differences surfaced and took you both like storm. Don''t always assume that I have no thoughts of my own. I''d never me Ayi for whatever happened between you and mom. She is the only person in my life who offered me warmth unconditionally. I''d be a beast if I turned against her now."

    Zhai Kuijun didn''t know what to say for a moment but he was d to see that his son thought so. It actually reduced half of his worries.

    "Ayi has always mind her own business. She did her best to make sure she doesn''t be the reason for destroying your rtionship. Even if someonees to tell me that she nned this all. I won''t believe it. She can never do this. In fact, it''s possible that she fell into someone else''s scheme instead along with you."

 Chapter 1010: Thank You, Dad!

    Chapter 1010: Thank You, Dad!The more Zhai Yanjun thought about it, the more he felt it was feasible. Knowing how sweet his Ayi was, it wouldn''t be surprising that she actually fell into someone''s trap. Now, the question was who schemed against her? This was an important question.

    He really felt like a bad son for even having this idea but it kept nagging him that somehow his mother was involved in this scheme.

    But then he looked at his father thoughtfully and frowned. If she really was involved then... Howe she actually threw her own husband into the mix? It was a little difficult for him to believe for a moment. At one point, he had seen his mother''s obsession with his father. It was a very unhealthy obsession and he always found it disgusting.

    "What are you thinking about?" Asked Zhai Kuijun as he noticed the way his son was looking at him.

    "Nothing, I just have this feeling that Ayi fell into someone''s trap but I can''t think about anyone who would have such a big grudge against her. I don''t think she made enemies in life."

    Zhai Kuijun also thought about it and felt that it was right. "But... Ah-Yue really has no enemies. If I have to think about someone who hates her with a passion then it''s only..." He didn''t continue. No matter how much he hated Yue Lan now, he couldn''t just push the me on her without any evidence, and that too in front of their own son.

    He couldn''t just make his son hate his mother. Well, at least he didn''t want to add oil to the fire of hatred that already burned in Zhai Yanjun. He wasn''t exactly oblivious to how much his son disliked Yue Lan.

    "You don''t have to avoid talking about it," said Zhai Yanjun seeing his father''s deliberate pause. "I also thought of her. But I don''t think she''d go as far as to involve you in her scheme to tarnish Ayi''s reputation."

    Zhai Kuijun couldn''t argue with that since he also felt that was unlikely.

    "It could be your enemies too," Zhai Yanjun pointed out as he looked at his father.

    "My enemies?" Questioned Zhai Kuijun in confusion.

    Zhai Yanjun gave his father a smile that wasn''t a smile. "What? Do you think you also have no enemies? Are you as sweet as my Ayi or as nice as she is? It''s difficult to hate her. You are pretty easy to get on people''s nerves."

    Zhai Kuijun red at his son, "Is that something you should be saying about your own father?"

    "Or else? Am I supposed to say this about my neighbor''s father? Sadly, I don''t know my neighbor''s father so I have no right to judge him at all. You on the other hand are someone I know way too well."

    Zhai Kuijun takes at him. "Why can''t you be a bit cute?"

    Zhai Yanjun suddenlyughed out loud.

    "What? What happened? Why are youughing? What''s so funny? Have you lost your mind?"

    Zhai Yanjun wiped tears from the corner of his eyes that came out fromughing so hard as he said, "I''m just thinking, dad, you always wanted a cute son and you now have gotten your wish. Fai is pretty adorable."

    Zhai Kuijun was stunned to hear that and didn''t respond for a while as he stared at Zhai Yanjun in silence.

    "You seem oddly calm about this matter," said Zhai Kuijun. "It''s not settling well with me at all. Can you be a little normal? If there was another person who found out his father had another son out there, that person would be..." He couldn''t find the words that he could say right now. "Well, anyways, that person wouldn''t be as calm as you. Do you not care at all? Are you that indifferent to your dad''s matters now?"

    "When the first time I asked you to get a divorce and you refused, I told you I won''t be caring about your matters anymore."

    Zhai Kuijun suddenly recalled those words and was at a loss.

    "But right now, I''m not actually indifferent," said Zhai Yanjun. "For the first time in my life, I feel like you''ve done something right by donating your sperm that brought Fai into this world. So, thank you, dad!"

    For the first time in his life, Zhai Kuijun also felt like beating his own son. Was this really his own son? What the hell was he even talking about right now? Who talks like that to their father?

    He managed to escape a stroke when he learned about the deepest and darkest secret of his life but right now, he felt like his blood pressure was shooting up all because of this son of his.

    He thought it''d be a heartbreaking and very heavy discussion but Zhai Yanjun wasn''t following the script!!!

    "I didn''t donate a sperm!"

    "Technically, you did," responded Zhai Yanjun. "You can''t im to be someone''s father just because you gave your..."

    Zhai Kuijun put his hand on Zhai Yanjun''s mouth preventing him from saying that word again. It was really getting on his nerve now. He didn''t know whether he had enemies or not, but he was certain his son provoked a lot of people with that mouth of his. Why did he always assume that his son was a quiet person?

    Actually, he wasn''t wrong. Zhai Yanjun was really a quiet person. It was the fever of love that changed him. Oh, a person infected with the virus of love could never be the same again. And currently, Zhai Yanjun''s infection was at the terminal stage! How could he ever be the same again?

    "Son, I''m already frustrated and worried. Can you stop giving me a hard time here?" Zhai Kuijun really seemed to be pleading with his son now because he couldn''t continue this argument at all. Just because Zhai Yanjun didn''t react, did not mean everything was fine.

    He was quite clear about where he stood in Hyson''s life. It''d be right to say that he was almost invisible in Hyson''s life. This thought was really making him ufortable again.

 Chapter 1011: My Little Brother

    Chapter 1011: My Little BrotherZhai Yanjun actually understood his worries without him sharing. He looked at his father and patted his shoulder encouragingly as he said, "I''m sorry to say this but dad, you and I both know you don''t stand in the position of a father in Fai''s life. Not even close."

    Zhai Kuijun sighed depressingly. With a little hope, he said, "But that''s because we haven''t gotten a chance to bond with each other yet. He doesn''t know his father, once he does, it''ll be different."

    Zhai Yanjun almostughed at his father''s nativity. "Do you really think, he doesn''t know you''re his father?" Zhai Kuijun was left staring at him in shock as he went on, "Believe me, he knows. And now, I finally understand why he had been so hostile toward me. It''s all because of you."

    "Me?" Questioned Zhai Kuijun.

    "Yes, you," replied Zhai Yanjun. "I''ll tell you a thing about Fai. He is overly protective of his mother. It means the person who even looked at Ayi harshly is considered his enemy. In his mind, you''re an enemy because you''re the reason she had been suffering for all these years. Do you think he craves the warmth of a father just because he had been a fatherless child? Nah. He grew out of that phase. Especially now when he has so many offering him so much love that the absence of a father is really not that important anymore."

    The more he spoke, the more Zhai Kuijun''s expressions worsened. There was no helping it. Because everything that Zhai Yanjun said was true. An undeniable truth!

    "Do you wanna know why he is being civil with you until now?" Asked Zhai Yanjun. "The credit goes to Ayi. She would never allow Fai to do anything rude to you and that''s why he had been keeping his distance from you. I have understood him very well during this time. He isn''t as adorable as he seems. Behind that adorableness lies a person who is willing to go as far as possible for his loved ones. Ayi is his weakness. As long as Ayi says you''re off limits, he won''t make move. It''s the same with me. He always restrained himself because Ayi pulled him back."

    "You mean to say he hates me?"

    "Don''t feel so special, dad. I don''t think you''re that important for him to actually hate you."

    Zhai Kuijun gritted his teeth, "Will you cut it already? You''ve already hurt me enough!"

    "I''m just letting you get familiar with the situation beforehand so that it doesn''t hurt you that muchter on. You have to first ept these facts before nning your next move. Don''t be hasty and ruin things. Don''t even think about approaching Fai with this knowledge. You''re gonna give him a reason to attack. And trust me, he will. His best friend''s name is Raelle Xiang and his Godmother is Mu Chenyan. How innocent do you think he really is with their influence?"

    Well, Zhai Kuijun really couldn''t just shut his eyes and speak nonsense like Hyson was really innocent and naive. That''d be a big lie.

    "Then what should I do?" Zhai Kuijun looked like a student asking for some advice right now and it looked really funny to Zhai Yanjun who hadn''t seen his father acting this way. It seemed he got to see a lot of new versions of his dad today.

    Shaking off these thoughts from his head, Zhai Yanjun said, "You need to invade into enemy''s territory. You can''t be forceful about that. That''s asking for death. Your best shot is to hook up with an insider."

    "What the hell are you even saying? Speak human!"

    Zhai Yanjun cleared his throat and changed his words, "Okay fine. I mean to say, your best shot is Ayi. My sweet and nice and warm Ayi. She is the best shot you got here. I''ll help you investigate what happened back then."

    "I didn''t find anything when I tried to look into Ah-Yue''s matter."

    "That was you. Now, it''s me. I have my own ns."

    "Okay, genius! Whatever you want." Thinking about what Zhai Yanjun said, Zhai Kuijun nodded his head, "It seems you''re right. The person who sincerely weed me into that family is only Ah-Yue. She is as sweet as ever. But am I supposed to ask her why she hid it all from me?"

    "Do you even have to?" Asked Zhai Yanjun. "It''s already obvious why she desperately tried to keep it a secret from you. She must be feeling so guilty. No wonder she hid from you all this time. She just couldn''t face you. Tsk. Tsk. My poor Ayi. She must have gone through so much. And even when she was alone, she didn''t think about abortion." As if he was enlightened, he looked at his father, "Dad, did you really never have any feelings for Ayi?"

    "What nonsense are you talking about? I always treated her like a very good friend. I had no other thoughts."

    "That was then. Now is now. Talk about now with me. You had been mom''s obsession and Ayi had been your obsession since you couldn''t forgive yourself for not protecting her enough. So, during that time, did you never think that maybe the nature of your feelings changed? In my opinion, you must have had feelings for Ayi and mom could see that too. Only you never realized it."

    Zhai Kuijun frowned as he asked, "Where are you going with this?"

    "I just want you to think about this before approaching Ayi. Whether she is still just a friend or something more in your heart, you need to make it clear to yourself first. Because that can decide the nature of the rtionship you''ll have with Ayi and Fai in the future."

    Zhai Kuijun fell into thought. He took a moment before saying, "I thought I''d be talking about your rtionship with you but how did it turn into this?" He shook his head, "I have really gone down in my life. I even need my son''s advice now."

    "I''m not nice enough to offer it for free," said Zhai Yanjun. "I have my own purpose here. I just want to make sure that I''m able to call Fai my little brother openly."

 Chapter 1012: Youre Dating

    Chapter 1012: You''re DatingZhai Yanjun sat down to recall many details about Hyson. And couldn''t help feeling a little happy. He finally understood that it wasn''t that Hyson didn''t like him, it was all because he couldn''t ept him as a brother. So, technically, it was all his father''s fault. He did nothing wrong.

    He felt no burden in pushing all the me onto his father.

    None at all.

    He was exhrated today. He always wanted a sibling and now, he learned that his favorite Hyson was actually his little brother. He definitely didn''t feel anything about the fact that they weren''t born to the same mother. In fact, he was happy that Hyson and he didn''t share the same mother. Who knew if Hyson would have been able to keep his light if he had a mother like Yue Lan?

    It was only a mother like Yue Yue who could bring up someone like Hyson. She was a warm person and she turned her son into one too.

    Zhai Yanjun suddenly had an impulse and took his phone to call Hyson. But after ringing for a while, the call wasn''t picked up. He was disappointed but then he knocked on his head reminding himself that Hyson must be working. How could he take the call during his shooting?

    He must have lost his mind because of happiness.

    Not even for a second, it came to his mind that Hyson might have deliberately didn''t take his call because no matter what kind of a rtionship he had with Hyson, thetter would always take his call. Even if it was to poke him with his bitter and cold words.

    He was driving back to the training ground when his phone rang. Looking at the caller id, he smiled to himself and parked the car on the side.

    "You still have time to call me? Didn''t I get you a girlfriend? Why are you still looking for me?"

    Zhai Yanjunughed at Hyson''s words. He didn''t even say hi or hello and straight up went to speak nonsense.

    "How can a girlfriend take your ce, Fai?"

    "Yuck! Captain, be careful. I''m gonna hang up if you speak like this."

    Zhai Yanjun shook his head in amusement, "Okay. I won''t. But I''m being very honest. No girlfriend can take your ce."

    "Wait a minute, let me add Major to this call. Then I''ll see how you talk like this."

    "No! Don''t. There is no need to disturb Wai."

    "Then you don''t disturb me," said Hyson.

    Zhai Yanjun pursed his lips. "Are you busy?"

    Hyson was silent for a moment before saying, "I just finished with my scene. So, I can take a break for 20 minutes until the arrange the next set. So, I can magnanimously allow you to disturb me for this long."

    Zhai Yanjun''s lips curled up, "Oh, thank you so much for being so magnanimous, Mr. Superstar."

    "It''s alright. Don''t you know that it''s a rule for celebrities to stay humble or the general public won''t like us," told Hyson very seriously. "So, I try to stay humble."

    "How are you, Fai?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    Hyson was silent again and then asked, "You called at this time to ask how I am?"

    "Yes," replied Zhai Yanjun. "That''s a very important question. You''re so far away. I have to keep asking how you''re doing and how your health is. You know, health is very important in life. You can''t be careless about it."

    "Yanjun Ge, stop!"

    "Oh."

    "I know health is important. And I''m fine. Do you know how many people are here to keep an eye on me? At the moment, even my diet is so healthy and nutritious that I''m surprised myself. I''ve never even been this health conscious in my life but now I have to be."

    "But it''s all for you so you bear with it," said Zhai Yanjun. "Once youe back home, you can eat however you want. It''ll be troublesome if you get sick at work. That''s why everyone is caring about you."

    Hyson subtly felt that something was wrong. Why did he feel like Zhai Yanjun was talking extra softly and gently with him? And what''s with that doting tone? Was he mistaken? He had never been wrong about this stuff. So, the only exnation was that it wasn''t an illusion.

    "Captain, what are you calling me for?"

    Zhai Yanjun was stumped. He parted his lips but nothing came out. But he had to say something. He knew that Hyson was very sensitive toward the change around him. If he didn''t give a reasonable answer, Hyson would definitely catch on to something. He just had this must trust in Hyson''s supernatural ability.

    "Um... I heard you''re dating," said Zhai Yanjun the first thing he could think of.

    "Huh?"

    "Yes, yes. It''s all over the inte," informed Zhai Yanjun. He had also seen the scandal of Hyson dating the movie Queen, He Rou. Of course, he didn''t believe it at all. But it was a good excuse to save his ass right now. "I say, you both best friends are amazing. One took over the inte early in the morning and the other came to jointer in the day."

    "You can say that Ellie and I just can''t be apart," said Hyson happily. "Even on the inte, we have to stay together. It''s the rule. How could we be called soulmates otherwise?"

    Zhai Yanjunughed at his reasoning. "Is that so? First, I thought it was a coincidence but now, why do I feel like you purposely did it?"

    "It could be possible," he said. "You never know."

    "Right. How can anyone ever know when you''re involved? It''s hard to even figure you out."

    Hyson chuckled, "I''m just that special."

    "That''s definitely not something I can argue with." In fact, Zhai Yanjun thought he could never argue with Hyson ever again. He should learn to give in like a good elder brother now. He can''t just try to bully his little brother all the time even though at the end of the day, it was always him who got bullied by this little brother.

 Chapter 1013: Sweet Burden

    Chapter 1013: Sweet Burden"You still didn''t tell me," started Zhai Yanjun. "About you dating."

    "Do you even believe that?" asked Hyson.

    "Why? The news is everywhere," said Zhai Yanjun.

    "Look it up again," said Hyson. "It''s nowhere to be found. Besides, if I really was dating someone, it won''t be announced like this."

    "Oho! How else would you announce it?"

    "At least in a better way than you," retorted Hyson. "You should be ashamed. You couldn''t even hide one rtionship. Everyone knew you were dating while you both thought you were hiding it well."

    "In my opinion, it wasn''t our fault. We did our best. The problem lies with the people around us who have sharp eyes that see through everything. How could it be med on us? It was also our first time doing it." Taking a pause, he added, "Once you get into a rtionship, I''ll see how you hide it."

    "Why would I even hide it?" asked Hyson in return. "I don''t see a reason to. You only hide rtionships when you have no faith in your rtionship otherwise, you should be announcing it to the world."

    "You''re a star," reminded Zhai Yanjun.

    "That doesn''t mean I''m willing to make my partner suffer by staying in the darkness," said Hyson. "That''d make me feel like we''re doing something wrong. Kind of like an underground affair."

    "You have a lot to say all of a sudden," said Zhai Yanjun. "Do you have your eyes on someone already?"

    "That''s the thing. No one has caught my eye yet," replied Hyson. "Captain, if you called me for such stupid questions then you really are wasting my time."

    "Why? Can''t we just chit-chat?"

    "No!"

    "Who said that? Ayi said I can call you whenever I feel like talking to someone. You''ll have to listen even if you don''t want to. Or else, I''ll call Ayi."

    "How old are you? How can you still tattletale like this? How can you even threaten me by using my own mother''s name?"

    "Because only she can control you in this world."

    Hyson shook his head, "No. It''s just the illusion I have created that she can control me. In truth, I''m a free bird. Nothing can hold me back."

    "Should I call Raelle?"

    "You''re ying dirty now," said Hyson. "My best friend is off limits between our arguments."

    Zhai Yanjunughed happily and felt so rxed. After talking with his father, only now did he feel like his nerves were rxing.

    "What''s up with you, Jun Ge? You said you just want to talk which means something is on your mind. What is it? Is it again your rtionship?"

    "Nah." replied Zhai Yanjun. "Wai and I are very happy."

    "I''ll take the credit for that," said Hyson cheekily.

    "I didn''t give you the credit," said Zhai Yanjun purposely.

    "Who asked for it from you?" retorted Hyson. "I just take things that I want. I don''t want to wait."

    "Fine, you take the credit."

    "I already did."

    Zhai Yanjun rolled his eyes, "Do you never get tired of talking nonsense?"

    "No," replied Hyson. "How can you ever get tired of nonsense?"

    "I mean, you must be tired here and there. You also have limited energy like any other human being."

    "When I feel like my energy is low, I call people like you to talk nonsense to recharge myself."

    Zhai Yanjun pursed his lips and felt so amused that he didn''t know what to say.

    "You''re really one of a kind, Fai."

    "Everyone knows that."

    Zhai Yanjun and Hyson stayed silent for a while but neither hung up the phone at all. And then it was Zhai Yanjun who broke the silence.

    "I do have something on my mind," said Zhai Yanjun. "I think I''ll need your permission with it too."

    "What is it?" Hyson dropped his careless attitude and turned serious.

    "You once warned me not to look into things that don''t involve me," said Zhai Yanjun.

    "I remember," said Hyson. "What? You wanna dig into that past again?"

    "I''m gonna ask Ayi first," informed Zhai Yanjun. "You said as long as she is willing to tell me everything, you won''t mind it."

    Hyson''s brows furrowed up before a sigh escaped his mouth, "What did you learn?"

    "What do you think?" asked Zhai Yanjun in return.

    "If we are going by my guess, then I''d say you must have learned about how you''re rted to me."

    Zhai Yanjun wasn''t the least bit surprised when Hyson caught up on that. He knew he''d from the moment he spoke about it with Hyson. Initially, he didn''t want to say anything but then he was reminded of how Hyson once warned him not to touch the secrets of the past that hurt his mother. So, he had to take his permission if he wanted to look into past events.

    "Tsk. I should have known."

    "You''re not even surprised," said Zhai Yanjun.

    "Why should I be? If you had been a little bit attentive, you''d have caught on to this fact long ago," said Hyson. "Since it took you so long, it only means you''re stupid."

    "Can you stop insulting your elder brother like this?"

    "Wow! You''re quick to take on the role of an elder brother here, eh?"

    "I always wanted to be an elder brother," said Zhai Yanjun.

    "Even though your little brother is an illegitimate one?"

    "Yue Fai!" Zhai Yanjun turned angry all of a sudden. "Don''t say that again."

    Hyson suddenly smiled when he heard that. "Why? Isn''t that the truth? Whether you like it or not, the truth here is that I''m an illegitimate child."

    "How so? You''re just from a single-mother family. Yes! Haven''t you seen how many people in the worlde from single-mother families these days? So, you are not allowed to say that."

    "I didn''t think you''d react this way, Jun Ge."

    "What did you think? That I''m an unreasonable fool?"

    "Aren''t you?"

    "Fai! Can you respect me a little?"

    "Nope! Can''t do."

    Zhai Yanjun wanted to say or do something but he just realized how helpless he was in front of this little brother. Tsk. It was a sweet burden to be the elder brother.

 Chapter 1014: My Sweet Mother

    Chapter 1014: My Sweet MotherAs always, Hyson enjoyed annoying the hell out of Zhai Yanjun. It was always fun. And he didn''t think he was going to get tired of this anytime soon. Definitely, not possible!

    But for the first time, Hyson genuinely thought Zhai Yanjun wasn''t all that bad either.

    This wasn''t the reaction he was expecting from Zhai Yanjun either. He really didn''t think he''d so easily ept the truth and would even be eager to take on the role of his elder brother.

    "Why is everyone so surprised by my reaction?" asked Zhai Yanjun in confusion. "Is something wrong with how I''m handling this truth? I don''t think so. I love you and I love Ayi. I don''t see a reason why I should be going all over the ce because of this truth."

    "It''s not about how much you love us," said Hyson. "Who can guarantee that you won''t me me and my mother for your broken family?"

    "I''d never," said Zhai Yanjun. "I really am not that unreasonable. Yes, I''m not very good at expressing myself but I''m not unreasonable either. And if Ayi really wanted to break my family, she wouldn''t have gone into hiding for so long. And if I''m not wrong, I believe that she didn''t even know she was pregnant when she left. Because she did tell me how you became her reason to live on and keep moving forward." The more he spoke, the more riled up his emotions got, "I''m getting so mad just thinking about this. She had to suffer all on her own for so long. I''m not willing to take it lying down. At this moment, not just Yue family but also my dad and I owe her so much."

    "You should calm down," said Hyson. "There is no need to get so worked up. Everything has already happened. Move on!"

    "I can''t," said Zhai Yanjun. "I can''t move on at least until I know who was responsible for everything. I don''t know if you know this but Fai, Ayi means a lot to me. It hurts to see a sweet person like her hurting."

    "Her trials have long passed," was Hyson''s response. "My mom only looks weak. If she was that weak, she wouldn''t dare take on the responsibility of raising a son on her own without any support. Especially when she lost her voice too. Do you know how many doors close for you because of one small disability? Hers did too. And yet, she didn''t crumble down. She survived that time. Now, she doesn''t want anyone to make anything up to her. It really means nothing."

    Hyson wasn''t just saying that, he actually meant it. He loved his mother the most and everyone knew that already. If his mother wanted to hold anyone ountable for her sufferings, he''d the first person to help her do it. But Yue Yue was still Yue Yue who found it all pointless because she really did pass through all her tough times.

    Now, her life was too blessed. That''s what she said to her son.

    They say you''ll be rewarded with blessings after trials. And she was rewarded. Her first reward was her son, then came more trials butter her son led her to the Xiang family and she finally found a family. A home to call her own. People who loved her and everything she ever wanted.

    Now, with such blessings, she hardly looked back at the past filled with tears.

    "But it means a lot to me," said Zhai Yanjun. "I really can''t let this go. She is kind and she is forgiving. I''m not."

    "Who are you gonna punish?"

    "Anyone and everyone who hurt her."

    "Even if that person is your own mother?" asked Hyson.

    Zhai Yanjun was stunned for a moment before he parted his lips to say something but Hyson cut him off.

    "Before speaking, think carefully, Captain. You''re a military officer. The tag of being an unfilial son won''t be good on your record. Whether a parent is right and wrong, a child has no right to persecute them."

    "We are already in 21st century," said Zhai Yanjun. "You don''t need to tell me all that. I know what I''m doing."

    "Actually, I don''t care what you do," responded Hyson. "I''m just telling you that my mum won''t like it."

    "Ayi will listen to me. Because she loves me more."

    Hyson''s lips twitched, "Have I been too nice to youtely, Captain?"

    Zhai Yanjun chuckled softly, "You see, no matter how spoiled the younger ones are, the eldest child will always have a special ce in the family."

    "You''re not a bloody part of my family!" Hyson almost yelled but seeing the people on the set, he held himself back. This Captain was really trying to take a mile when he only offered half an inch as always. How annoying!

    "Your words don''t count in this matter, little brother!"

    "What are you up to? Why do you seem to be enjoying it way too much?"

    "Because I am," said Zhai Yanjun. "You know the other reason why I epted the truth so easily? Because from the moment I met you, I wished to have a little brother like you. And seeing your bond with Ayi, I always felt envious and wished to have that too. Now, I just realized that I can have it. Ayi can be my mother."

    Hyson stood up from his chair so abruptly that the chair fell back.

    "What did you just say?" asked Hyson. "You actually have eyes on my mother?"

    "Didn''t I always?" inquired Zhai Yanjun.

    "This is different!" eximed Hyson. "What are you doing? Does your dad know about this too?"

    "He does," answered Zhai Yanjun. "But don''t worry, I told him not to disturb you."

    "Oh my gosh! You actually gave him the idea to get to me through my mum? How dare you!"

    "Wow! Little brother, you really are good. You actually caught on to that with just a few words? I''m baffled."

    "Is that what I''m asking right now?"

    "Don''t worry. We are a family either way. Whether my dad catches Ayi or not. You''re still my little brother and Ayi is still my sweet mother. Aunts are also half mothers. I don''t mind either way. But I think my dad has a chance." Without waiting for a response, he added, "Okay, I''m hanging up now. Talk to youter!"

 Chapter 1015: Little Mr. Chen

    Chapter 1015: Little Mr. ChenHyson had a lot more to say and Zhai Yanjun knew it too that''s why he hung up to escape leaving Hyson with a stifled feeling. Once he hung up, he leaned his head against the headrest and closed his eyes before heughed to himself. Anyone who saw himughing all alone inside his car which was currently parked on the side of the road would assume that he had lost his mind and it wasn''t that far off.

    He already was happy knowing that Hyson was his little brother but now, he was even happier after bickering with this little brother. Hyson always had his own views and ideas that Zhai Yanjun knew all too well. So, he wasn''t really surprised by how Hyson spoke. His assumption was proven true that Hyson already knew about their rtionship. And just as he thought, he wasn''t willing to ept it either.

    It only strengthened his belief that his idea was right. The true way to achieve his dream of having a warm family was to approach Yue Yue instead of Hyson. Because once you get Yue Yue, Hyson would have no way to resist. It was just a proven fact.

    On the other side, Hyson paced around trying to figure out what to do. He knew his mother. Once Zhai Kuijun really got serious about her, she''d be a goner. No, she was a goner for far too long already.

    When had she ever stopped loving him?

    At least, Hyson didn''t think his mother was ever able to stop.

    And that was the truth as well. Hyson knew it!

    Oh, this was so frustrating!

    ''Calm down, Hyson! Calm down!'' he mentally reminded himself.

    "We are ready for you, Hyson!"

    Hyson heard the voice of the staff and nodded his head. He closed his eyes to adjust his emotions before he went to get done with the scenes of the day. The sun had already gone down at this time. By the time, he was done, it was already 9 o''clock.

    Hyson went straight to his hotel room as always.

    And by now, his emotions had actuallye under control too. Now, that he thought about it, why was he mad? Did he really want his mother to spend her life alone as she did before? To be honest, he didn''t. He knew that no matter how much he loved his mum, he wasn''t able to stay with her at all times.

    And even if Mu Chenyan took care of Yue Yue now, it didn''t mean his mum wasn''t lonely.

    Love leaves a void in your heart that only love can fill. Nothing can rece it. No other emotion. You either rece your feelings for one person with another or get the same person back. Because there was no other way to escape the emptiness that loves left behind.

    Although Hyson never loved someone to this point, he had heard about it all.

    And since even after all these years, his mum wasn''t able to fall for another person it only meant she was still not willing to offer that love to another person.

    *Knock! Knock!*

    Hyson walked over to open the door and looked at the kid standing outside.

    "Oh, hello, little Mr. Chen!"

    The kid''s facial expression didn''t change but his eyes showed how displeased he was with that title. "Hello to you too, little Mr. Hyson!"

    "How am I little?" asked Hyson.

    "How am I little?" asked Chen.

    "You don''t even reach my chest," Hyson pointed out.

    "You adults only know how to bully kids with height, eh?"

    "It''s stating the obvious," said Hyson. Heughed softly and stepped aside saying, "Come inside. I didn''t think you''de."

    "You''re the one who invited me over," replied Chen. "Since we have so much inmon, I thought I should go over."

    "Have a seat. What do you wanna drink? Did you have dinner?"

    "Water is fine and yes, I have had my dinner. I can''t skip it or dy it. My mommy will go haywire if I do that. She is particr about food. I still remember when she made me only watch my favorite food for days and didn''t even let me touch it. It was torture."

    "Why did she do that?" asked Hyson curiously as he passed the water bottle to him.

    "Because I didn''t eat my lunch box," replied Chen. "She says food is important for life. We work for food. If there is no need to eat, why else would we be toiling around? The biggest joy of life is to be able to taste the delicacies the world has to offer."

    "I like those views," said Hyson. "Because I agree. You can never be careless with food. Food is a blessing. You don''t understand the pain of being hungry. People who survived the years of famine knew what food was really worth."

    "Did you face the years of famine?" asked Chen.

    "No," replied Hyson.

    "Then how do you know it was painful?"

    "Because I have gone through the feeling of hunger."

    "Really? Had a difficult childhood?"

    "You''re really straightforward,"mented Hyson. "Good thing I am too. And I''m also used to straightforward people. But yeah, I had a difficult childhood. But the feeling of hunger was mostly because of those stupid bullies who used to snatch my breakfast and lunch money."

    "Tsk. You couldn''t even fight back? Just give them a few punches."

    "And you''re violent as well."

    "Thanks, I learned it all from my mum."

    Seeing how proud he looked saying that, Hyson was really amused and asked, "And what did your dad teach you?"

    "Baba teaches me a lot of things. Mostly, he teaches me how to be a good kid. It''s just that secretly, I''m more influenced by my mommy."

    Hyson shook his head at him and said, "Let me tell you a secret, I''m also more influenced by my godmother. My mom is awesome but my godmother is super awesome."

    "Same! My Baba is cool but my mommy is super cool!"

    "So, you like your mom more than your dad?"

    "No," replied Chen immediately. "I don''t put both of them at the top of my list."

    "Oh? What a surprise! Why not?" asked Hyson.

    "Because they don''t put me at the top of their list," answered Chen. "If you ask my mommy who she loves most. The answer would always be, ''My Baobei!'' And let''s get this clear, I''m not the Baobei she speaks of. Her precious baby is my Baba. Sometimes I feel like she got me in the one plus one deal."

    Hyson pfft-ed at that and asked, "What?"

    "No, seriously! She only wanted my Baba. I just happened to be involved in the deal package."

 Chapter 1016: Fate Between Us

    Chapter 1016: Fate Between UsHyson''sughter got louder and even tears came out from his eyes. He did not expect to hear this.

    "Is it really okay for you to say that?" asked Hyson as he wiped his tears.

    Little Mr. Chen got up to pat his shoulder and talked like an adult saying, "Don''t cry for me. I''m already used to it. Sigh. Life is just unfair to us."

    "Okay. You stop making meugh," said Hyson as he looked at this little kid whose expressions were so precise that he''d make most actors ashamed of their talent. Now, he understood why everyone was raving about this little kid''s acting. He was really good.

    Chen smiled at Hyson as he said, "Mommy says life''s biggest purpose is to make everyone around you happy. Someone has to spread happiness in this world filled with toxicity."

    Hyson was momentarily stunned before he sighed to himself, "Kids have big ideas these days."

    "Kids are the future," reminded Chen.

    Hyson shook his head at this little one before he went back to get his phone and looked through something as he asked, "What do you wanna eat?"

    "I told you, I had dinner," replied Chen.

    "Then consider it yourte-night snack," said Hyson. "Just apany me with that excuse I haven''t had dinner yet and I don''t feel like eating alone."

    "You should have said that earlier," said Chen. "Let me think... Mmm... I''ll take crayfish."

    Hyson looked at him suspiciously, "Can you really eat that? I feel like you''re too young for that."

    "Why is the age involved again? That too in food!"

    "Fine, I''ll order that," said Hyson. "What should I eat?" Hyson asked no one in particr. He seemed to be asking himself. "Okay, so while we wait for food, let''s y a round?"

    "Sure," agreed Chen.

    And the one little baby and one big baby pulled out their phones to y the game together. Earlier in the day, while talking, they learned that they yed the same game so instantly decided to add each other. Of course, Hyson''s first words at that time were, "Are you allowed to y games?"

    And Chen replied, "I have an hour set aside for gaming in the day. And since currently, I''m on summer vacation, I have a whole 2 hours for gaming in my schedule."

    That was the reason why these two made a n to see each other at night.

    They yed for half an hour before Hyson''s assistant brought the meal. Hyson set up everything on the table and even wore gloves to help peel the crayfish for Chen attentively.

    "You should just eat, Ge," said Chen. "I can do this myself. Do you think I can''t even do this much?"

    "You sure?" asked Hyson.

    "Positive!" Chen gave Hyson a look, "I might be an only child but trust me, I''m not a spoiled kid. I''m very capable of taking care of myself."

    "It seems you''re better than me then,"mented Hyson as he picked up his bowl of noodles to eat.

    Before he could take the gloves, Chen felt his eyes itching and said, "I''m gonna take off my lens first." He went to the bathroom to take off his lens and also washed his hands. Then he came back to sit with Hyson.

    Hyson''s nced at him before going back to eating but stopped and went back to nce at Chen. He blinked as he looked at his eyes with a thoughtful look.

    "What''s wrong?"

    Once Chen took off his lens, Hyson was able to see the real color of his eyes. That was one gorgeous pair of grey eyes. But those eyes were the reason that Hyson felt some familiarity and frowned to himself.

    He called out tentatively, "Rowan?"

    Chen''s eyes widened when he heard that, "Ge, you..."

    "Rowan Derek Salvay," Hyson called out his full name. "Right? I''m right."

    Chen... Er... Ahem. Rowan was really taken aback, "How do you know my real name? No one in the industry knows. Not even my assistant."

    "You just celebrated your birthday recently," said Hyson.

    "I did."

    "And my godmother was invited to your birthday," added Hyson.

    Rowan recalled the people who attended his birthday and he knew for sure that apart from his family, only two outsiders were present and only one of them was a woman whom his grandaunt invited. "You''re talking about Mu Chenyan?"

    "Yes! That''s the one! My godmother. One and only!"

    Rowan was really shocked, "No way, right? There is such a coincidence?"

    "I''ll call it the fate between us," chuckled Hyson to himself. "Yanyan sent me a photo where you''re sitting behind her but only your eyes were prominent in the photo. That''s why I almost didn''t recognize you."

    "Now, I can agree with you," said Rowan while Hyson raised his brow in question. "You have an awesome godmother."

    "I know," said Hyson. "She is super awesome."

    "Well, she left a strong impression since she had an argument with Zhao Zhao. Well, it couldn''t be considered an argument since he wasn''t exactly saying anything but she had a lot to say."

    "She always has a lot to say," was Hyson''s opinion. "And the Zhao Zhao you speak of is Xia Zhao?"

    "Yes," answered Rowan.

    "That''s very understandable," said Hyson. "Ellie said they both don''t argue. It''s their way of getting along. For instance, my way of getting along with my best friend is by annoying her."

    "Then you must have a very good rtionship with your best friend," said Rowan as he munched on the crayfish he peeled off. "By the way, it seems our families know each other. So, which generation are you from? Am I supposed to call you Ge or Uncle?"

    "I''m fine with being called Ge," said Hyson immediately.

    Rowanughed at that, "You''re really influenced by your godmother she also told me not to call her grandaunt because she is still too young to be called one."

    "That is something our Yanyan would say," Hyson wasn''t even surprised.

 Chapter 1017: Guests

    Chapter 1017: GuestsSince everyone has clearly assigned tasks, the arrangements for the engagement were heated. Everyone was working like spinning tops while Raelle thought they were going over the top. It was just an engagement party and they even hired event nners. Then why were these people so busy?

    She couldn''t understand and didn''t want to waste time on understanding either. She spent time with her Opa. Because even Shui Xian had things to do and only she was left to live like a salted fish.

    "Why am I not allowed to work?" asked Raelle once again to her grandfather.

    Grandfather Xiang looked at her and replied, "It''s your engagement."

    "But I have other works to handle too," said Raelle. "I''m not allowed to go out. Do you know I got such a good project proposal? I can tell the huge potential behind it. All I had to do was to visit theb to confirm the working and then I''d be ready to invest but no, I''m just not allowed to go anywhere or work. I''m losing millions and possibly billions if that project really turned out the way it''s envisioned."

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head, "Yenay, what are you gonna do with all that money? Don''t you have enough?"

    "Money is never enough, Opa," said Raelle.

    "It''s enough," said Grandfather Xiang. "It''s human greed that has no limit. You shouldn''t be greedy."

    "I''m not greedy," said Raelle. "I just... I think I''ll soon start growing mushrooms. That''s how I''m living these days. I''m all recovered. Especially after taking those pills, you gave me, I feel great. I literally do."

    "It seems I should really look for Young Master Ru to show my gratitude,"mented Grandfather Xiang.

    "Opa, where can I find that Young Master Ru?" asked Raelle out of nowhere.

    "Why?"

    "He is an interesting person to talk to," replied Raelle. "I think it''d be better to converse with him than waste my time like this. At least, I''d get to learn something."

    "That''s true. You can really learn a lot from him," said Grandfather Xiang. Then he looked around before whispering to Raelle, "It''s difficult to find Young Master Ru, you can look for Xia Zhao. He isn''t half bad when ites to knowledge. Since theye from the same n. You can go look for him. He''d be happy to apany you."

    Raelle''s interest was piqued, "Where can I find Uncle Zhao?"

    "I''ll give you his address," said Grandfather Xiang. "Just be careful. Your Yanyan might lose it if she knew about it."

    "Yanyan isn''t that unreasonable."

    "You''d be surprised to see how unreasonable your Yanyan can be once the matter involves Xia Zhao."

    "But why?" asked Raelle. "What is it between them? Just because he is better than her? I really don''t think that''s the reason why Yanyan gets so worked up seeing him."

    Grandfather Xiang gave her a gentle smile, "My Yenay is truly growing up. You''re right. It''s not just because he is better than her. He always helped her with whatever she didn''t know. He had never been impatient with her or rude to her. But even I don''t know what really happened between them. So, you''ll have to ask either of them. And I think if you''re asking, both of them won''t refuse to tell you the truth."

    "I understand that Yanyan won''t refuse but are you sure that Uncle Zhao won''t either?"

    "He won''t," said Grandfather Xiang firmly. "You''re Yanyan''s life and Zhao would never refuse you for anything for Yanyan''s sake. He is just that person who had even done unreasonable things for Yanyan''s sake."

    Raelle could only say that these two shared a veryplicated rtionship. One that even she hardly understood by now.

    "Then I''ll go to see him," said Raelle.

    Grandfather Xiang passed her a list asking, "Check this and see if anyone''s missing from the guest list."

    "How would I know?"

    "I''m asking for your guests," said Grandfather Xiang. "The ones that you want to invite."

    Raelle looked through the list and then thought about it. She didn''t really know who to invite. She never took care of these things. She never had to. She had already asked Cloe to give the list of people to invite from their business partners. Now, she had to see who she personally wanted to invite. She thought some more before telling him, "There are two people I want to invite."

    "Who are they?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    "Song Xin''ai and Tang Hebe," answered Raelle shocking Grandfather Xiang.

    "Huh?" He thought he heard it wrong just now. He did not expect to hear those two names from Raelle.

    "What''s wrong? Can''t invite them?" asked Raelle.

    "No," said Grandfather Xiang. "That''s not what I meant. I just didn''t think..."

    "Didn''t think I''d invite these two people?"

    "Yes," he nodded in response.

    "But why can''t I?" asked Raelle again. "One is my nominal mother and the other is..."

    "The other is your husband''s ex-wife. Are you trying to shove it in her face what she lost?"

    "That''s not the intention but now that you mentioned it, I quite like it," said Raelle. "The real intention was to invite her son, Justin. He is a little buddy of mine. But he is a kid, it''d be wrong to invite him alone. So, I wanted to invite Tang Hebe. But now that you told me that I can even show off, I feel like that''s even better."

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head and sighed, "Are you sure then? I''m gonna add their names here."

    "Or you can give me the invitation cards for these two and I''ll personally deliver them."

    "You just want to do something, eh?"

    "Yes," said Raelle.

    "Fine. Fine. I''ll give you the invitation cards for these two." He was silent for a moment before he asked, "You really want your mother toe?"

    "Why not?"

    He shrugged, "Just asking."

    "You don''t wanna see her?"

    "It''s nothing like that," said Grandfather Xiang. "She gave birth to three grandchildren for my Xiang family. I can''t possibly ask for anything more from her."

    "Aren''t you very easily satisfied?"

    "What do you know? In my Xiang family, we already had a shortage of descendants. Having two kids in a generation was already considered a lot. But she actually brought three descendants of our family into this world. Three remarkable people. I should be satisfied with it."

 Chapter 1018: Go Bald

    Chapter 1018: Go BaldWhat kind of a person her grandfather was, how could Raelle not know? She was even more familiar with his thoughts. So, it wasn''t surprising to hear his thoughts regarding Song Xin''ai. No matter what kind of a person she was or what she had done, it was an undeniable fact that she gave birth to three children for the Xiang family.

    As her grandfather said, it was actually a big deal considering the low poption of the Xiang family for generations.

    Raelle knew that her grandfather didn''t exactly hate Song Xin''ai or Xiang Hulin for all these years. It was just his anger and disappointment.

    "You can invite whoever you want," said Grandfather Xiang to her. "It''s your engagement party. The guests should be of your choice. What kind of a rtionship we have with those people or whatever animosity we have with those people shouldn''t be your concern. I''ll still say the same thing to you, Yenay. You can always do whatever you want. What we think about your choices shouldn''t be your concern."

    "I get it," she replied.

    Raelle picked up the book she had been reading when someone came to see her. "Missy!"

    Raelle looked up at Anna, "Hi! Haven''t seen you in thest couple of days."

    Anna smiled at her, "I''m ttered to know that you missed me, Missy."

    "Mhmm..." Raelle looked down at the book in her hand as she asked, "So, any progress?"

    "Not much but there is something," said Anna as she put a file in front of Raelle. "I couldn''t find much from the university except for the fact that she was a very friendly and exceptional person. Very kind and helpful. No matter who you ask, you''ll only hear good things about her. It seems people love to praise her."

    "Can''t rte to that,"mented Raelle making Anna chuckle.

    "You''d be surprised, Missy."

    Raelle looked up at her again, "You''re saying people praise me? I think they have a lot of problems with me."

    "Maybe. But they can''t always deny the truths so they do end up praising you as well."

    "If you say so," said Raelle. "What else then? Any photos or personal information?"

    "ording to the personal information, shees from a small countryside but I don''t believe that. It''s difficult to know the authenticity of that information because the name of the vige doesn''t even show up on maps, that''s how unknown that ce is. Most people don''t even register the residents there." Anna looked very confused as she went on, "But I also couldn''t find any photos of her in the university database."

    "Not even one?"

    "There is a photo from a festival where everyone was wearing costumes and because of the makeup, it''s difficult to recognize her," said Anna. She took the group photo from the file and showed it to Raelle who also agreed that it was difficult to recognize the person. If it wasn''t for the nametag she wore, she wouldn''t even know that this girl was Chi Xirui.

    "So, it''s a dead end again?"

    Anna nodded her head but then pulled another paper to show Raelle saying, "University was aplete dead end but the disaster area wasn''t all that better either. Look at this information, over six years ago, there was a flood in the region of Kan and she joined the volunteer group. She stayed there for three months and I managed to find a photo of her from there."

    Raelle looked at the volunteer group photo and looked at the girl named Chi Xirui. Even this face didn''t ring a bell. This face wasn''t avable in the memory disk of her brain. She was certain she didn''t know this person and had never even seen this face.

    "This isn''t helpful either," said Raelle. "It doesn''t even give a clue about how she is associated with me."

    "Sadly, it doesn''t," replied Anna.

    "Fine, go and rest well. You must be tired after all this," said Raelle. "I''ll see what to do."

    Once Anna was gone, Grandfather Xiang gave his granddaughter a look, "What are you up to?"

    Raelle looked back at him, "You can say, I''m too bored, Opa. So, I''m just trying to find something to keep me busy."

    "Who are you looking for?"

    "Her name is Chi Xirui," answered Raelle.

    "How do you know her?"

    "That''s the thing. I don''t know her," was Raelle''s response.

    "Then what exactly is going on?"

    "That''s what I''m trying to figure out here," she replied. "I''ll let you know once everything bes clear to me. For now, things are veryplicated since it''s like this girl doesn''t exist. I can hardly find her background. She is shrouded in mystery."

    "Okay, then good luck on your search," said Grandfather Xiang. "But if it''s tough, you can ask for help anytime. Don''t do it alone all the time."

    Raelle nodded her head in agreement, "Right. I can''t find it anyway. So, I should ask for help from someone who really can find something for me." She took a pause as she nced at him, "Who do you think is the best person to look for in this situation?"

    "Go and ask Chenyan," said Grandfather Xiang. "She''d be more than happy to help. Besides, she has an extensivework, she''d be able to find out something."

    Raelle again nodded her head, "Indeed. Who else can I look for if not my Yanyan."

    With this thought, she closed the book and picked up the file that Anna left behind. She stood up to look for Mu Chenyan but then stopped, "Is Yanyan home?"

    Even Grandfather Xiang was stumped by that question sincetely Mu Chenyan was all over the ce trying to organize the engagement party so it wasn''t surprising that even he wasn''t sure if she was home right now or not.

    "Umm... I don''t know."

    "It''s bing a luxury to see her these days,"mented Raelle. "I told her not to do everything on her own."

    "How will she feel at ease if she doesn''t do everything on her own?" asked Grandfather Xiang. "I heard she almost made the event nner go bald with her ideas." He seemed to be holding back aughter when he said that.

    Raelle wasn''t even surprised. What else would you expect from Mu Chenyan?

 Chapter 1019: Influenced By Her

    Chapter 1019: Influenced By HerFrom the moment Zhai Kuijun came to know about his rtionship with Hyson, the way he looked at Yue Yue also changed. The change was very subtle. There was more guilt in his eyes when he looked at her. And he wasing over to see her way too many times these days as well. It really made one wonder what his intentions were.

    ''Aren''t you busy?'' asked Yue Yue to him through typing.

    Zhai Kuijun shook his head, "No, why are you asking?"

    Yue Yue shrugged her shoulders, ''You''re here every day. I just think it''s weird.''

    "You don''t like seeing me here?" he asked with a pitiful look on his face.

    Yue Yue was taken aback by that question and shook her head, ''No, no. That''s not what I meant. Not at all. You''re thinking too much.'' She genuinely didn''t mean that. Why wouldn''t she be happy seeing him? It''s just thattely he''d been following her around which really put her on edge. She had never gotten this kind of exceptional attention from him and it made her a bit jittery at times because she wasn''t used to it at all.

    Seeing her walking into the kitchen, he asked, "What are you making today?"

    ''Cream puffs.''

    "Oh, I love cream puffs."

    Yue Yue smiled at him, ''Fai loves cream puffs. But since he isn''t around, I''ll send these to Yanjun.''

    "What about me?" asked Zhai Kuijun. Was he invisible? He was happy to know that his younger son''s taste was simr to his own but that did not mean he wasn''t upset that she thought of Hyson first. One son was thousands of miles away and the other was in closed training and yet, she was thinking about those two while he stood right there and just told her that he loves cream puffs.

    He suddenly felt upset. There was a time when she''d always bring whatever she learned to cook to him first. He always had the first right to taste everything. But now, things have changed he realized. He was no longer the first.

    Not just one but both of his sons overtook him.

    Since she was working, he didn''t disturb her and just sat there to watch her intently. It couldn''t be helped, he wanted to talk to her but then she''ll have to leave her work aside to type the answer to him which will waste her time. It was better to let her be for now.

    Zhai Kuijun was lost in his own thoughts as he watched her work. He knew there were three top-ss chefs hired by the Xiang family but still, you''d mostly find Mu Chenyan or Yue Yue in the kitchen. By now, even he understood that they loved to feed people. It just brought them the happiness that others couldn''t understand at all.

    Only after she had ced the cream puffs into the oven did he say, "You don''t have to work so hard for Yanjun. He is being fed well there."

    Yue Yue gave him a displeased look, ''What''s wrong with it? He is in the same city, I can do this much for him. It''s not like I send him things every day. It''s only a couple of times a week.''

    "You send him stuff a couple of times a week?" Zhai Kuijun was shocked to hear that. He did not know this and neither did his son mentioned this to him. "You''re spoiling him too much. Ask his girlfriend to do this stuff. You shouldn''t be doing it."

    ''I wanna do it. So what?''

    Seeing this stance of hers, Zhai Kuijun deted and had nothing to say. "Whatever you want."

    Yue Yue seemed satisfied to hear that response. She was about to start making the whipping cream for the cream puffs when she paused and looked at him to ask, ''You also know that Yanjun and Wai are dating?''

    Zhai Kuijun nodded, "Of course, I know."

    She nodded her head in response and went back to work.

    "What about Fai? Does he have someone?"

    Yue Yueughed silently at that to the point of tears. ''It''d be a miracle of a sort if he even figured out what it was like to love someone. Do you think he and Raelle are such best buds for no reason? The simrities between them are plenty. Even if you hear Fai talking about love, he''d sound like an expert but trust me, he has never even be attracted to someone in his life. Not even once. He''s like a block of wood!''

    "It can''t be that bad."

    ''It is.''

    "Are you worried about that?"

    She shook her head, ''I don''t care. He can do whatever he wants. He has lived his life ording to my wishes for way too long. I never asked him to follow my dreams but he did. So, I don''t want to impose anything on him anymore. I only once mentioned how great it''d be to see him being a star chased by a sea of fans and before I knew it, he debuted in an idol group. I''m even scared of saying things casually in front of him because I know to make me happy, he''d go and just do it.'' She silently sighed to herself as she thought about her son''s nature. ''I know if I once mentioned about him dating, he might really go and find himself a partner. But I don''t want that. I want him to follow his heart for once. I don''t wanna be the reason behind all his choices in life.''

    Zhai Kuijun only realized now what kind of a person Hyson was. No wonder Zhai Yanjun said that to Hyson, Yue Yue was everything. So, it was really Yue Yue who had the final decision in Hyson''s life. He''d easily get influenced by her choices.

    This was okay but the thought that this nature of his was groomed all because of how tough his childhood had been really felt like someone stabbed him in his heart. He couldn''t even imagine what they must have gone through at that time to be so dependable on each other.

 Chapter 1020: [Bonus chapter] Pure Intentions

    Chapter 1020: [Bonus chapter] Pure IntentionsThe rest of the time, Zhai Kuijun was actually in a veryplicated mood. For days, he was trying to figure out what he felt for Yue Yue just as Zhai Yanjun had asked him to. And to be very honest, Zhai Kuijun realized on the very first day that he wasn''t repulsive or resistant to the idea of being with Yue Yue. In fact, he was actually a little happy.

    After all, he knew she understood him very well. And after everything, he really needed an understanding partner. All other feelings were things of the future. It was understanding that he really wanted in his partner now.

    But before Yue Yue came into the picture, he wasn''t even thinking about having another partner. He got a divorce after such a long fight, he didn''t feel like he''d ever want to be married again but now, here he was again. But if the partner was Yue Yue then he wasn''t all that dismissive of the idea of marriage.

    However, at the same time, he didn''t dare to speak about it or make his ideas obvious. Especially at times like these when he heard about how difficult it had been for her to give birth to Hyson or raise him all on her own. Even while dealing with the rejection she felt from the whole world. And how she lost her voice and fell into depression. He knew so little. Who knew how exactly that time had been for her?

    He felt like he couldn''t even raise his head to face her properly because he knew he was also the reason for everything. How could he even think about asking for anything from her when he didn''t even offer her anything at all?

    Yue Yue clicked her fingers before his eyes to get his attention and when he snapped back to reality and looked at her face right in front of his eyes, he was taken aback. She raised her brows at him questioning him about what was up. He shook his head in response.

    Yue Yue gave him a suspicious look and then went back to her work. After 22-25 minutes she took out the cream puffs from the oven and ced them on the counter to let them cool down before using the whipping cream filling.

    When she was filling the cream puffs, another person came over, "Yue, how are you?"

    Yue Yue looked up at Shui Koshing and gave him a sweet smile in response.

    "Ohh... What do we have here? Cream puffs?" He walked over and wanted to pick one up but Yue Yue held his hand and gave him a look. "My hands are clean." She didn''t budge so he went to wash his hands again and came back hurriedly. This time, she didn''t stop him and picked up the small cream puff with his hand to taste it. "Mmm... This is good."

    "Eat less sugar. You might get diabetes at this age," came Zhai Kuijun''s bitter remark.

    Shui Koshing looked around and not once his eyes settled on Zhai Kuijun as he asked Yue Yue, "Yue, did you hear something? I feel like there is a fly in the kitchen. You should pay attention to these things."

    "Koshing!" Zhai Kuijun stood up from his seat to re at Shui Koshing.

    "What? What can you do?" After saying that, he even turned to Yue Yue, "Look, he is ring at me."

    Yue Yue was suddenly at a loss when she saw them acting like kids. How old were they again? Could they please act a little more maturely? It was really spicy to her eyes to see them acting this way. She rarely saw their interactions even when they were young so she didn''t know what kind of a rtionship they shared but she actually thought it''d be good considering how their fathers'' were best of friends but it seemed she was very wrong.

    Being the peace-loving person, Yue Yue stepped up and stopped them from getting into a fight as she asked Shui Koshing, ''Ge, you are free today?''

    Shui Koshing immediately looked away from Zhai Kuijun, not paying any attention to him as he informed Yue Yue gently, "My son is finally at work. I can have rest. My daughter-inw said I shouldn''t be working so hard. What''s the point of raising a son if he isn''t even gonna work?"

    Yue Yue chuckled silently to herself as she agreed, ''That''s something Raelle would say. But she actually let her husband leave her side? That''s a surprise.''

    "When ites to working, she is very serious," informed Shui Koshing. "What are you doing though? I though Chenyan left you at home to rest?"

    ''I was free as well but suddenly thought of making cream puffs for everyone. I''m sending some to Yanjun. How about I send some to Xian as well?''

    "There is no need to go through this trouble," said Shui Koshing.

    ''How is it trouble? I already baked so many cream puffs.''

    When Shui Koshing looked at the counter filled with cream puffs, he had to say she baked a lot. "Then I have no opinion. You should ask Xian''s wife. I''ve stopped caring about my son since he got married."

    Yue Yue shook her head but still agreed that she should ask Raelle so she went to look for her leaving Zhai Kuijun and Shui Koshing staring at each other. Shui Koshing took another cream puff to eat while staring at Zhai Kuijun and said, "Aren''t youing over way too muchtely?"

    "How do you know? It''s the first time I ran into you here," said Zhai Kuijun.

    "Just because I''m not here doesn''t mean I know nothing," was Shui Koshing''s response. "You''re hovering around our Yue, what''s your intention? I don''t think you have any pure intentions."

    "What''s that got to do with you?" retorted Zhai Kuijun feeling irked by Shui Koshing''s protective and interrogative stance. It really made him seem like the guilty party here.

 Chapter 1021: Same Old Drama

    Chapter 1021: Same Old DramaAlthough Zhai Kuijun''s intentions weren''t all that pure, that didn''t mean he was willing to hear about that from Shui Koshing.

    Shui Koshing narrowed his eyes at him saying, "Are you forgetting?" Zhai Kuijun frowned as he went on, "If you''ve forgotten, let me remind you. Yue Yue is the only cousin sister that my wife acknowledged. That means, she is my little sister as well. I won''t allow you to hurt her."

    "Have I ever hurt her?"

    "Haven''t you?" retorted Shui Koshing. "You and I both know very well what you did or didn''t do."

    Zhai Kuijun clenched his fists but didn''t say anything. Actually, he really had nothing to say right now. Originally, the rtionship between Shui Koshing and Zhai Kuijun wasn''t actually bad. After all, with the friendship between their fathers, there was still some civility involved when they met each other. But once Yue Yue disappeared, things changed.

    Whether it was Zhai Kuijun or Qian Yin, they both were frantically looking for Yue Yue but they both couldn''t find any clue. Qian Yin med Zhai Kuijun for not protecting her and Zhai Kuijun had nothing to say in his defense. Even at that time, it was an undeniable fact that Yue Lan kicked out Yue Yue and Yue Lan was Zhai Kuijun''s wife.

    Qian Yin had started disliking Zhai Kuijun for inviting a snake into his house and ruining everything.

    At that time, Zhai Kuijun might not have understood what she meant butter, he couldn''t deny anything. So, he kept his distance from Qian Yin because he couldn''t take in her words. Later she died and the distance between him and Shui Koshing grew.

    "Koshing," called out Zhai Kuijun as he lowered his stance. "I never had any intention of hurting Yue Yue and you know that too. I still have no such intention. You of all people know very well how much time and effort I''ve spent trying to find her. She had always been very dear to me. I wouldn''t be here if Yue Yue wasn''t happy to see me."

    Shui Koshing couldn''t continue his argument because he knew Yue Yue was really happy to see Zhai Kuijun. It was Zhai Kuijun''s ce in her heart that no one could shake. Not even time and bitterness came between them.

    "Then you make sure she stays happy," warned Shui Koshing. But Zhai Kuijun was d to hear that because it meant Shui Koshing was willing to step back as well.

    "You should let loose now," said Zhai Kuijun. "We are practically inws now."

    "What did you say?"

    "Your son is also married to a Xiang and my son is soon to be married to a Xiang as well. So, technically, aren''t we inws?"

    "And here I thought I won''t ever have anything to do with you," said Shui Koshing.

    "You don''t hate me as much as you always make it seem," said Zhai Kuijun. "After all, you really like my son."

    "Yanjun is Yanjun. He is a good kid. I''m surprised someone like you and your wife even got lucky when it came to giving birth to a son like him."

    Zhai Kuijun sighed, "Even I''m surprised." He took a pause and added, "But you''re also lucky. You have a good son."

    "I do," said Shui Koshing proudly. "I have an even better daughter-inw."

    Zhai Kuijun gave him a look.

    "What? Do you think I''m wrong? You wanna say something?"

    Zhai Kuijun shook his head, "No, thanks. I have nothing to say to that. Let''s not start with who has a better son or a daughter-inw. It''s not our age for that."

    "Then what?"

    "Let''s wait a few years to get grandchildren," added Zhai Kuijun making Shui Koshing almost choke on air. "We''ll start thepetition again with who has a smarter grandkid."

    Shui Koshing took a moment to digest his words but then he epted it calmly and even said, "With my Raelle''s IQ, you want to actuallypete on who would have a smarter grandkid. Just drop it and ept your defeat without a fight."

    "Koshing, you''re going too far."

    "I''m just stating the obvious," replied Shui Koshing.

    "When did you be like this?" asked Zhai Kuijun in surprise.

    "When you''re busy fighting a bitter divorce battle with your ex-wife," Shui Koshing shot back.

    As they both stared at each other again, suddenly, Zhai Kuijun said, "Do you hear something?"

    "I do," answered Shui Koshing as he walked out of the kitchen to follow the voices.

    Zhai Kuijun also followed behind him to see what was going on and why were there loud voicesing. They both followed the voices and came to the main door. They were surprised to see Yue Yue standing outside.

    As the voice became clearer, Zhai Kuijun actually felt this voice was familiar and when he walked to the door, he realized why this voice was familiar. Wasn''t this the voice of Madam Yue? Yue Yue''s birth mother who happened to be even worse than a stepmother.

    Currently, Madam Yue was being held by two maids as she called out to Yue Yue with tears rolling down her face. If anyone saw this scene without any context, they''d really assume that Yue Yue was bullying her aged mother right now. But whether it was Zhai Kuijun or Shui Koshing, they knew what kind of a person Yue Yue was.

    She couldn''t even bully an ant on the ground, much less her own mother.

    "What''s going on here?" asked Shui Koshing as he stepped beside Yue Yue.

    Yue Yue was feeling a headacheing on from her mother''s voice and when she found Shui Koshing beside her, she finally found someone to lean on, ''It''s the same old drama that I''m tired of.''

    Hearing this much, Shui Koshing actually figured out the matter instantly. What else could be? Madam Yue must be here to force Yue Yue once again like old times to do something for Yue Lan. Times changed but some things really didn''t change, eh?

 Chapter 1022: [Bonus chapter]Enraged

    Chapter 1022: [Bonus chapter]EnragedYue Yue had earlier gone to look for Raelle and found her sitting with Grandfather Xiang. So, she went to ask, ''I made some cream puffs, I''m sending some to Yanjun. Do you want me to send some Xian as well?''

    Raelle instantly got up, "Why go through this trouble, Yue? Just pack a box and I''ll take it to my husband."

    Yue Yue was amused by her reaction and nodded, ''Okay. Then I''ll pack some for you too. You can eat with him at the office?''

    "Wonderful idea!"

    Grandfather Xiang also shook his head at Raelle as he told Yue Yue, "Just give it to her. She can''t sit still even more since her husband isn''t around. You finally brought a reason for her to find her husband, how can it not be a wonderful idea."

    Raelle didn''t feel anything about being exposed like this by her grandfather.

    "Then I''m gonna go and change clothes."

    "You have clothes here too," reminded Grandfather Xiang.

    "I have some stuff to take from there," said Raelle.

    As Raelle left, Yue Yue followed her out the main door and waved at her.

    "I''ll be right back."

    Yue Yue nodded at her and watched her leave through the space that had already been created between the two manors. Now, she didn''t have to go around and could easily just use this path to travel between the two ces.

    Yue Yue was about to turn back inside when someone suddenly fell into her feet scaring her. And when she looked at who it was, it really blew her mind. She hurriedly stepped back and seeing her reaction, even the maids stepped up to pull Madam Yue back.

    "Yue Yue, you can''t do this to mother," said Madam Yue. "Have some pity on your mother. Can''t you let your sister off? Whatever she did, I''ll apologize to you in her ce. Don''t ruin her future."

    Yue Yue understood instantly why her mother was there. It was again, Yue Lan. To be honest, she wasn''t all that surprised. What else could she even expect from her mother? In fact, she had long stopped expecting anything from this woman. If she had any attachment to the Yue family, it was only with her father.

    Apart from him, no one really mattered to her.

    She once thought she hated her sister for ruining her life but then she realized the real hateful person had always been her own mother who repeatedly made her give in. She made her the weak party. She turned her into a bullying victim. She was the reason Yue Yue could never lift up her head in that family or confront anyone for anything.

    It was always her mother who was behind all her painful memories.

    But now, she didn''t even hate anyone. She truly was indifferent to this woman who gave her birth. She didn''t care what Madam Yue had done. Because now, she wasn''t the Yue Yue who knew how to give in. Now, she was someone who was allowed to make mistakes because there were so many people who were willing to clean up the mess she created.

    She didn''t have to be scared of anyone. Someone was here to protect her now.

    No one was allowed to wrong her. She wasn''t the Yue Yue anymore who only got the shorter end of the stick. Although Mu Chenyan always taught her that instead of taking the shorter end of the stick, she should just take the bloody stick and beat people up, Yue Yue of course hadn''t gotten to that point.

    "Yue, Ah-Lan will not allow me to live in that family if you didn''t help. Can you see your mother being wronged like that?"

    Yue Yue actually nodded her head as if saying, ''She really can.''

    Madam Yue forgot what to say for a moment when she looked at her expression.

    At that time, Shui Koshing and Zhai Kuijun came out. Seeing Shui Koshing, Madam Yue didn''t have much of a reaction but when she looked at Zhai Kuijun, she was shocked. "Son-inw, what are you doing here?"

    "Do I need to remind you that I''m not your son-inw anymore," said Zhai Kuijun. And even if he really married Yue Yue in the future, he didn''t want a mother-inw like this one again. And of course, he knew Yue Yue didn''t want this mother any more ether. Which solved his problem.

    Madam Yue looked at Yue Yue and then Zhai Kuijun who stood protectively beside Yue Yue and her expression changed as she said, "So, Ah-Lan had always been right. You both really had something going on. It had always been you who wronged your sister. How could you even do this? Do you have any shame? How could you snatch your own sister''s husband?"

    Before she could continue, she was pulled by her wrist and a hand appeared beside her cheek but it didn''tnd. Madam Yue instantly wilted when she looked into those dark eyes staring down at her like a call from hell. She felt like her soul was shaken when she looked at the woman before her. She was so scary.

    Even Yue Yue was taken aback when she looked at Raelle and gaped at the scene before her. Raelle Xiang doesn''t raise her hand at people like that. She knew why Raelle stopped. Mu Chenyan and Grandfather Xiang instilled in her mind that she couldn''t hit elders. Whether it was right or wrong, she couldn''t hurt an elder.

    But the fact alone that Raelle actually raised her hand was enough to show what she was feeling right now. Yue Yue felt her heart warming and her eyes stinging with tears. Oh, she had to hold back her tears. It wasn''t the time to cry.

    "Say another word against Yue, and I don''t mind making you disappear from the face of the earth," said Raelle in her nk voice but it sounded like a call from hell with her oppressive aura right now. It couldn''t be denied. She was enraged right now.

 Chapter 1023: Cheap Mouth

    Chapter 1023: Cheap MouthEven from her expressionless face, one could tell how angry she was right now. Why wouldn''t she be? Someone actually dared to point a finger at her family member? Did she allow it? She never did and she never will. Her family was always her reverse scale!

    "AHH!" Madam Yue ended up screaming in pain because of how tight Raelle''s grip was on her wrist. She didn''t even like physical touch but right now, she didn''t mind it either. She looked like she was gonna break that hand any minute now.

    "Who the hell are you to question our Yue?" asked Raelle. "Did you ask for my family''s permission before running off this mouth?" She threw her hand away as if she was throwing away something dirty and it made Madam Yue stumble. Her old body might have fallen but because the maids were still holding on, she didn''t fall. "You''re not only blind but you never even learned how to talk, eh?"

    Madam Yue rubbed her wrist with tears in her eyes. She was truly in pain. She looked towards Yue Yue and said, "Are you really gonna stand there and watch your mother getting bullied by an outsider?"

    Even before Yue could do anything, Raelle stood between them, not allowing Madam Yue to even look at Yue Yue''s face. "Mother? Do you deserve that title?"

    At this moment, Raelle had to say that even her own mother was far better than Madam Yue. Even if Song Xin''ai abandoned her or whatever, she never stopped loving her. She always kept her children in her heart. Unlike Madam Yue who wore the mask of a mother to constantly manipte Yue Yue. The emotional damage this woman had done to Yue Yue was irreversible.

    "First, you should learn how to be a mother. A mother is supposed to protect her child, not use her child''s kindness to her own advantage. It''s you who bullied Yue all her life and you''re here to do that again? Who gave you the nerve to even show up at my door and demand anything from my family? Do you even know your own worth? Do you even deserve to stand before the door of the Xiang family?"

    Yue Yue silently rubbed her nose. She thought she should feel about her mother right now, but honestly, she felt nothing. Nothing at all. She was like a passerby at the moment just observing the situation as if it had nothing to do with her. It was actually rare for her to see this version of Raelle but she to say, she understood why people said she had a poisonous tongue.

    She could really do some serious damage to people with her words.

    "You want Yue to help your Yue Lan. Guess what? That won''t be your only worry soon enough. Aren''t that daughter of yours very proud of her maternal grandparents'' family? Watch it turn to dust. I''ll make it happen. Do you wanna see how cruel we can get? Watch it carefully from the front row. You think everyone needs to listen to you because you''re the victim? The victim bes the perpetrator once they start using their misery against another person. And you did exactly that. To not suffer yourself, you made your daughter suffer. Do you think that doesn''t make you a bully?"

    Madam Yue was horrified when he heard Raelle mentioning Yue Lan''s maternal grandparents'' family which was also Madam Yue''s maternal family n. She only came to beg Yue Yue because she thought her daughter might listen to her for onest time but she didn''t think things would get worse with her arrival.

    How was she to know there was a devil-like Raelle here as well?

    Actually, she was very clear about Yue Yue and Zhai Kuijun''s rtionship. She knew Yue Yue loved Zhai Kuijun and that''s why she never actually did anything to defend her own daughter. Because subconsciously she also believed in Yue Lan''s words when she told them how Yue Yue slept with her own brother-inw. She never had any faith in her own daughter.

    "You! You can''t do that!" stuttered Madam Yue as she looked at Raelle.

    "I, Raelle Xiang, have a reputation. I do what I say," said Raelle. "No one can ever change my mind. And you brought it upon yourself. When my Opa went all the way to the Zhai family to make it clear to you all that Yue is part of our Xiang family and we know how to protect our family. Then who asked you to show up in front of me and ask for trouble? From this moment onwards, whatever happens, is your own doing. You should always consider the consequences before running off that cheap mouth."

    "YUE! YUE!" Madam Yue yelled out Yue''s name calling for help.

    "Calling for help, are we?" asked Raelle. "But from whom? Your daughter? But do I have to remind you that Yue isn''t part of your family anymore? Isn''t she dead to you all? The one standing here is my family''s Yue. You can even find her name on the family tree. And we don''t help outsiders like you. Don''t call her name ever again. Don''t call her your daughter ever again. I consider that an insult to her name. If you ever repeated this mistake, I''m gonna pull out that tongue of yours. I might be aw-abiding citizen but guess what? Not everyone in this family is fond ofw like me as well."

    It was one of those moments which made it clear that Raelle didn''t like talking but once she did start talking, no one could get a chance to say anything. She won''t give you enough time to even process before she breaks down your nervous system down with her sharp words.

    And what she said was right, she always did what she said she''d do. No one coulde in her way once she made her mind to do something.

 Chapter 1024: Punishment

    Chapter 1024: Punishment"Damn, your daughter-inw is noting slow,"mented Zhai Kuijun after he got over the shock.

    Shui Koshing gave him a proud look saying, "Of course, whose daughter-inw is that?"

    Zhai Kuijun gave him a disdainful look, "You''re really... I have no words."

    "You''re just jealous," said Shui Koshing as he stopped paying attention to Zhai Kuijun. He was more interested in seeing his daughter-inw''s valiant side. Oh, she was such a cool daughter-inw. He wanted to apud right now. There was no way around it, his daughter-inw was just that good.

    "Call the security," said Raelle and the maid hurriedly went to call the security. Once the security from the gate rushed over, they looked at Raelle and shuddered for some reason. "Are you all hired for fun? What are you getting paid for? How can you even let just anyonee in? Isn''t this neglecting your duty?"

    The security team on duty look at Madam Yue and then looked at Raelle before they lowered their heads and tactfully epted their mistake. Arguing would only make Raelle more upset and they already knew that. So, their only chance for survival was to truthfully ept that they were wrong.

    "It is our mistake," they said. "We should have been more careful."

    Raelle looked at them in silence for a moment and this silence was actually nerve racking for the people around them. Finally, she said, "Since it''s your first mistake, I''ll let it slide. But next time, I won''t be this nice. Now, throw this woman out then go and get your punishment."

    "Yes, Missy!"

    All of them gathered around Madam Yue and politely but with a stern attitude said, "This way, olddy."

    Madam Yue was conflicted about what to do. She didn''t want to leave because she didn''t even get to speak to Yue and didn''t achieve her goal but she didn''t want to stay as well when she looked at Raelle whose words were tearing her down. She didn''t know what to do.

    Suddenly, Yue Yue stepped over and stopped them.

    Madam Yue looked at her hopefully but Yue Yue didn''t even look at her, she looked at the maid beside her and made a few hand signs which the maid interpreted for Madam Yue, "I''ll be the voice of Mistress Yue from this moment on."

    Yue Yue then looked at her mother and continued to make hand signs that the maid continued to interpret for her, "I think I made this very clearst time that I want nothing to do with you or your family. Is it that difficult to understand? Or you''re looking down on me just because I can''t speak."

    Raelle''s aura of oppression burst out once she heard thest sentence and turned the burnt of her rage towards Madam Yue who took a step back instinctively.

    Yue Yue smiled at Raelle and held her hand as she smiled at her.

    When she looked back at her mother, her expression changed again as she continued, "It wasn''t me who went to provoke Yue Lan, she came to me. I don''t even wanna hear her name in my life much less see her. You think she is all that great then keep her. Stop being an eyesore to me all the time. I''ve run out of the kindness andpassion for you. I used to feel bad for you but now, I don''t. Now, I pity you."

    Madam Yue was rooted to her spot as she heard all that and looked at Yue Yue''s indifference.

    Yue Yue pointed towards Zhai Kuijun, "He was my best friend. I met him first. If I wanted to snatch him from Yue Lan, I wouldn''t have shared everything with her to win him over. You think he fell in love with Yue Lan? No, he fell in love with the illusion that Yue Lan created after knowing what kind of a girl he liked. She was never that girl and she could never be. What gives you the right to question mine and his rtionship? Who are you again? Because I don''t have a mother like you."

    Even Zhai Kuijun was surprised since he didn''t think Yue Yue would say all that.

    "Lastly, you said you''ll be kicked out of the Yue family? Oh, poor you!" Yue Yue stopped to give a look to the maid who was acting as her voice right now and felt like giving her a raise. This girl was even an expert at expressions. Yue Yue shook her head to focus on things at hand first. "I believe my father would never let that happen. No matter what, he is still the patriarch of the family. It isn''t Yue Lan''s turn to decide anything. And even if it is her turn, don''t worry. As my Raelle take care of your maternal n''s arrogance, Yue Lan will also lose her wings and fall on the ground. Just give her a reminder that once she falls on the ground, I won''t even have to do anything because there''d be plenty of people wanting to stomp her under their feet."

    After saying that, Yue Yue smiled contently and stepped back as she gestured, "Now, you can throw her out. And please, don''t show yourself again. I don''t wanna deal with you anymore. We have nothing to do with each other for far too long now. So, drop the act. I don''t fall for it now. I''m not blind anymore even if I''m a mute. I''ll never be blind enough to fall for your act ever again."

    With the wave of her hand, the security dragged Madam Yue''s frozen figure out of their sights. Watching her leave, Yue Yue really felt a little pity for her but more than that, she felt pity for herself for having such a mother. What crime did shemit in her past life to even end up with such a mother? It was truly a shame to call her a mother.

 Chapter 1025: Answer Is Clear

    Chapter 1025: Answer Is ClearOnce everything quietened down, Yue Yue first turned to the maid who had be her voice just now and gave her a thumbs up, ''You''re good. I''ll give you a good bonus for this performance.''

    "Thanks for thepliment, Mistress Yue," said the maid. "There isn''t a need for a bonus since it''s my duty but I won''t decline it either."

    Her reaction amused Yue Yue while when Raelle looked over at the maid, she went silent and even lowered her head. It was always like that. The help at home would be acting quite casually with others but when it came to Raelle, they''d turn serious. They wouldn''t dare joke or talk so casually with Raelle.

    ''Okay, you can get back to work.''

    The maid nodded and turned to leave. Yue Yue then shifted her attention to Raelle with a wide grin stered on her face. She looked at Raelle''s face for a long while in silence and Raelle neither broke this silence nor did she avoid Yue''s eyes. She was standing just as usual. The confident, the unbothered, the indifferent. Everything about her was exactly the same.

    Yue Yue stepped up and hugged her. Her slender arms wrapped around Raelle''s body enveloping this awkward girl in her arms. Raelle was momentarily stiffened but soon, her body eased up as she allowed Yue Yue to hug her. It seemed it was difficult to train her body to ept hugs. Her body had gotten used to Shui Xian''s hugs though since he loved to act clingy. But others rarely hugged her so her body wasn''t used to this intimacy with anyone else.

    After a full minute, Yue Yue stepped back, ''Sorry. I know you don''t like hugs.''

    "I don''t like hugs from outsiders," said Raelle. "Family is still okay once in a while. And you''re family."

    Yue Yue nodded her head as tears brimmed in her eyes, ''Yes, yes. I know. I''m family. How can I forget that? This family is the reason I''m so courageous now.''

    "Don''t," said Raelle. "Don''t let those tears fall. If Hyson learned that I let your cry while he wasn''t around, it won''t end well. I don''t wanna listen to him nagging for hours. No, he''d nag me for a whole year or maybe till the end of time."

    Yue Yueughed at that, ''He is a clown.''

    "He is your son," reminded Raelle.

    ''He is my son that''s why I know he is a clown,'' was Yue Yue''s response. ''Did you get what you needed? I''m gonna pack the cream puffs and you can then take them to Xian. Okay?''

    Raelle nodded to show that she understood.

    Shui Koshing walked over to Raelle and asked, "Are you going somewhere?" Since he couldn''t understand what Yue Yue was saying, he didn''t know the n between Raelle and Yue Yue.

    "I''m going to deliver cream puffs to my husband," she answered.

    "You have to do it yourself?"

    "I want to," she said.

    Shui Koshing sighed, "Right. Who can argue with that? Fine. Fine. Go and deliver it to him. Just be careful, he might ascend to heaven with happiness."

    "Don''t worry, he won''t be willing to go anywhere without me," said Raelle.

    Raelle turned to enter the house while Shui Koshing looked at Yue Yue and smiled, "I''m so proud of you today."

    Yue Yue smiled back at him as she took out the phone from her apron to type, ''I''m also very proud of myself today.''

    "Even I couldn''t listen to what your mo... Ahem... What that olddy said," he didn''t want to call Madam Yue as Yue Yue''s mother anymore. She really didn''t deserve that title. "And I guess I wasn''t alone who couldn''t swallow it down. Even my daughter-inw wasn''t willing to just listen. I have never seen her act like this before." He paused and frowned, "No, I''ve seen something simr." He was reminded of the time when Raelle stood up for him in front of Amelia. He was also feeling so warm at that time. The feeling of being protected was really something else.

    ''She had always been protective of her own people,'' said Yue Yue. ''But she rarely shows her might in such a straightforward way.''

    Zhai Kuijun also walked over to their side and looked at Yue Yue with a pang of guilt in his eyes, "I''m sorry. It seems whenever I''m around, I bring your trouble and only trouble."

    "As long as you know it," said Shui Koshing.

    Yue Yue held Shui Koshing''s arm to stop and he rolled his eyes before he went silent and looked away.

    Yue Yue gave Zhai Kuijun her usual kind and gentle smile as she said, ''But it isn''t your fault. In fact, I told you plenty of times that none of it had ever been your fault. I should be apologizing to you since I dragged you into this messy family. Zhai family would have no interaction with Yue family if I hadn''t met you. If I hadn''t helped Yue Lan, you wouldn''t have even gotten together with her either. So, at the end of the day, it is truly my own fault for pulling you into this.'' Yue Yue didn''t think she was being kind by saying this, she was actually very clear about everything. She had long understood that she had more things to be guilty about than him. She owed him more than he owed her.

    In fact, he hardly owed her anything. She never thought he owed her for the night they spent together. Although she wasn''t clear about that night much, she was still cleared that if she hadn''t found him identally, she''d have been r*ped by those men. She had never spoken a word about that because she never wanted to recall that time.

    But it was also true that she was actually willing to be with him that night. Even if she wasn''t in her senses, she was clear about who was with her and she was happy about it deep down.

    She owed him for hiding the existence of his son from him as well. She owed him for bringing a psycho like Yue Lan into his life and ruining him. She couldn''t just extract herself from that situation at all. It was her insecurity andck of confidence that made her push Yue Lan into his life.

    ''Kuijun, she knew you and I have no such rtionship. Do you know why she brought it up?'' Zhai Kuijun looked at her inquisitively. ''Because she wanted me to feel guilty and she wanted to use it against me to make me give in. After all, she is my mother. She really knew how to manipte me well. She did it for all my life. So, she knew that once she threw mud at us, I''d give into her demands to prove my innocence. And if it was 20 years ago, I might have done exactly that. But now, I''m not longer that easily manipted. She can think about me however she wants. Her opinion means nothing to me. Nothing at all.''

    She patted his hand as she typed with only one hand, ''And you don''t have to fall for her words either. Her opinions shouldn''t matter to you either since she is no longer your mother-inw. You''re free to do whatever you want. I know you got this freedom after a long and tiring battle, so don''t waste this freedom by giving importance to the words of people like her. Chenyan says, life is too short to live it for others. No matter what you do, the world will never be happy. So why bother making everyone happy? The only person''s whose happiness matters is you. Don''t deprive yourself the right of happiness for the sake of living up to others'' expectations of you.''

    While Zhai Kuijun was stunned by the sincerity and conviction in her eyes along with her words, Shui Koshing ced his hand on her head saying, "Yin''er would have been over the moon to see that her Yue actually grew up so much."

    ''Ge, I have an adult son,'' reminded Yue Yue.

    "And he always seemed the mature one between you and him."

    Yue Yue gaped at him in disbelief while Shui Koshingughed at her reaction. Then he pped Zhai Kuijun''s shoulder saying, "Knock it off. Why are you lost now? Didn''t you understand what she said? We are already old now. What''s the point of living for others?"

    Yue Yue nodded in agreement.

    Zhai Kuijun didn''t speak anything at this time because he wasn''t certain about what he could say. After hearing what Madam Yue said, he didn''t think about distancing himself from Yue Yue. He actually wanted to be closer to her now. It reminded him of the question Zhai Yanjun asked him to figure out. What did he really feel about Yue Yue? The answer was very clear now. It couldn''t be any clearer than this now.

 Chapter 1026: Dont Flatter

    Chapter 1026: Don''t tterRaelle has just entered the house when she found Grandfather Xiang. It seemed he had seen the whole fiasco but that didn''t mean Raelle was worried. No matter what she did or how she dealt with the matters, Grandfather Xiang hardly had anything to say about it. But currently, the way he was looking at her made Raelle stop for a moment.

    "I''ll not apologize for being disrespectful to her," she said.

    Grandfather Xiang chuckled at her response and beckoned her over. Raelle stepped closer and leaned her head down and then felt a warm and familiar touch on her head. "Am I that unreasonable? Some elders don''t deserve respect. Besides, you''re protecting your own family. I''m very happy to see this."

    "Did you think I won''t protect my own family?"

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head, "No. I knew you would. Isn''t that why I didn''t bother going out?"

    Indeed, he had learned about Madam Yue''s arrival quite early but when he came here, he already could see Raelle. So, he didn''t think there was a need for him to go out. He could just stay there and watch the whole fiasco.

    "She wasted my time," said Raelle. "I''d already be close to seeing my husband."

    Grandfather Xiangughed at that, "Yes, yes. It''s an unforgivable crime."

    "Now, that I think about it, I think I left her off way too easily."

    Grandfather Xiang''s lips twitched and he thought if Raelle really went all out, Madam Yue might get a heart attack. But by no means he thought that she let her off easily.

    "You should hurry up now."

    Raelle nodded and seeing that Yue Yue didn''t follow her in, she called out, "Yue, I''m gettingte."

    Yue Yue followed her in and packed up the cream puffs in two boxes. One she gave to the driver to deliver to Zhai Yanjun while the other was given to Raelle who would take it to Shui Xian. Only then she felt rxed and sat down with Grandfather Xiang.

    "It seems I don''t even have to protect our Yue anymore,"mented Grandfather Xiang.

    Yue Yue looked up at him as she offered him cream puff too before responding, ''You said I can be confident and I can do whatever I want. Because you''ll always be standing behind me. So, I got a little bold.''

    "It''s good to be bold," said Grandfather Xiang.

    "I agree," came Shui Koshing''s voice.

    Looking at Shui Koshing, Grandfather Xiang was reminded of something, "You! Where is the guest list I asked you to give me?"

    Shui Koshing looked at Grandfather Xiang and smiled awkwardly, "I forgot, uncle."

    "Is this your age to be so irresponsible?"

    "No, but this is definitely my age to be forgetful," argued Shui Koshing.

    "Even I''m not that forgetful," was Grandfather Xiang''s argument. "Even your father had a better memory than this."

    Shui Koshing scratched his nose saying, "I think my father forgot to pass on his memory to me through his genes. It''s not my fault. And I can''tpare with you even more. I don''t dare."

    "And what are you frowning about?" asked Grandfather Xiang to Zhai Kuijun.

    "Uncle, do you think Raelle would really do something to the Yue family?"

    "No," replied Grandfather Xiang. "She''ll just cut off Yue Lan''s wings. You should never doubt what my granddaughter says. No, you should never doubt the words of anyone from our Xiang family. We had a habit of doing what we say."

    "I have heard about that," said Zhai Kuijun.

    "Why? Are you feeling bad for your inws?"

    "Not my inws anymore," Zhai Kuijun hurriedly distanced himself from them. "And I''m not feeling bad at all. I''m just asking. After all, it''s not easy to shake the foundations of these old families."

    Grandfather Xiang chuckled when he heard that, "Are you looking down on old families by adding a bunch like that in their ranks? Real old families aren''t this ostentatious. And if they had descendants like Yue Lan, they''d be long destroyed."

    "Uncle is always right," said Shui Koshing.

    "Koshing, stop ttering me. I already gave you the most precious baby in my family. I have nothing else to give now."

    Shui Koshing grinned at that, "How can I ask for anything more? I was already shameless enough when I asked for Raelle''s hand in marriage for my useless son. He really doesn''t even deserve her. I can''t even tell you how grateful I was when you actually agreed and thought that my son was worthy of her."

    "You should stop talking bad about my favorite grandson-inw as well," added Grandfather Xiang.

    Shui Koshing immediately lost his smile and nodded his head solemnly, "I won''t dare. I definitely won''t."

    Zhai Kuijun had to suppress hisughter when he saw this but could almost not hold back himself fromughing at Shui Koshing''s face. But really didn''t dareugh in front of Grandfather Xiang. Whether it was when they were young or now that they were old, their deep fear of Grandfather Xiang was still as it always was.

    They weren''t even this scared of their own fathers as they were of Elder Xiang.

    "But Uncle, I really have no one I want to invite," said Shui Koshing after thinking for a while. "You can just ask Xian who he wants to invite."

    Grandfather Xiang gave him a look of disdain, "You''ve lived in vain, Koshing. How could you not even have a single friend at this age?"

    Shui Koshing lowered his head because he couldn''t really argue with that. Oh, it was truly embarrassing that all his so-called friends were his business contacts.

    "Who is it? Who dared to yell at my Yue? Which bastard is it? They actually dared toe to our door to bully our family? Did they ask me first? Am I dead?!"

    All four of them heard that roaring from the door and could already tell who it was.

    Shui Koshing looked at Yue Yue and said, "Chenyan is home."

    Yue Yue felt a headacheing on. Of course, she could also recognize that voice which belonged to her own best friend!

 Chapter 1027 Feral Lunatic

    Chapter 1027 Feral Lunatic

    It wasn''t like none of them knew how Mu Chenyan would react to this and that''s why Yue Yue was actually not gonna share this unimportant incident with her either. She didn''t mean to hide it but she also really thought there was no need for Mu Chenyan to know or make this matter bigger.

    After all, she didn''t get hurt or anything. She wasn''t even bullied. Why would she be unreasonably blowing it out of proportion? It didn''t make any sense.

    And knowing Mu Chenyan, anyone would know that once she learned about it, she''d blow her top.

    Yue Yue thought about how Mu Chenyan was busy for days running around organizing the engagement banquet excitedly, so she didn''t want to spoil her mood with this either. Who knew Mu Chenyan would know about it even before she entered the house?

    Grandfather Xiang looked at Yue Yue''s expression and could understand what she was thinking as he said, "You didn''t really think that you''d be able to hide it from Mu Chenyan, did you?" Yue Yue nodded her head innocently. Grandfather Xiang shook his head at her, "You should know your best friend by now. She has eyes and ears everywhere. You can''t hide it even if you want to."

    Yue Yue''s shoulders slumped down as she also epted that.

    She was the naive one to expect that she''d be able to hide it for a while from Mu Chenyan.

    Mu Chenyan came running over and pulled Yue Yue to her feet as she looked her up and down to make sure she was alright. She even turned her left and then right. She moved her around so much that Yue Yue started feeling a little dizzy from all that shaking.

    "Did that senile woman touch you? Did she hurt you? Tell me, I''ll get justice for you!"

    Yue Yue rolled her eyes at her as she reminded her best friend, ''You''re not my mother. Stop acting like one all the time.''

    "I assume the role that the situation asked for," said Mu Chenyan seriously.

    Yue Yue put her hands down on her body saying, ''I''m fine. Stop shaking me. You''re making me dizzy. I didn''t get bullied. Who dares to bully me in my own home?'' She took a pause as she narrowed her eyes to add, ''Besides, the person who told you that I had a visitor, didn''t tell you how it ended?''

    Mu Chenyan shook her head. Actually, it was because our Mu Chenyan was emotional and got riled up once she heard that Madam Yue came looking for Yue and yelled at her. So, she lost her patience to listen to the rest and she rushed back. That''s why she didn''t know how it ended at all.

    ''If you don''t know the whole story, stop making trouble,'' Yue Yue looked at her angrily and pushed her to sit down. Then she poured her a ss of water and watched her drink it. ''Don''t always jump to start a fight.''

    "Aunt Yue, you don''t know how ready Aunt Yan was for a fight,"mented Xiang Wai as she sighed heavily. "She almost went to blow up the Yue family house. I had to remind her that their real home is in the Capital and only then did she stop."

    Mu Chenyan coughed while Yue Yue looked askance.

    Grandfather Xiang''s lips curled up as he wasn''t even surprised by Mu Chenyan''s ns.

    "Ge put in so much effort to drag her back home first," said Xiang Wai as she looked at her brother who came to sit beside his grandfather without a word. "He said we should first learn what happened. We can dy the blowing up of their house n for a little while."

    Yue Yue looked gratefully at Xiang Weimin who managed to stop lunatic Mu Chenyan from going all out.

    ''Are you nning a murder?''

    Mu Chenyan felt wronged at being questioned, "I was doing it for you. How can that old woman even have the nerve to appear in front of you? If I had been there I''d have peeled off her skin!"

    "Then don''t worry," said Shui Koshing. "My daughter-inw is no worse than you. She is even better than you. She also peeled off the skin of hypocrisy and moral high ground from Madam Yue''s body."

    Mu Chenyan sat up straight, "Elle was home at that time?"

    Everyone nodded in response.

    Mu Chenyanughed out loud when she heard that. Sheughed so loudly that everyone was taken aback by her reaction. She was just seething with rage and now, she looked so happy. Really, no one could understand a real feral lunatic!

    Mu Chenyan patted Yue Yue''s shoulders saying, "I say, then you were well protected. I was worried for nothing. If my Elle was here, then I should be worried about the heart condition of Madam Yue. But guess what, I don''t give a damn about that old woman!"

    Everyone didn''t expect that reaction from her. But then they all thought about who Raelle Xiang was and what her reputation had been and it wasn''t all that surprising that Mu Chenyan had this reaction. Everyone should really be worried about Madam Yue right now rather than Yue Yue.

    "Why didn''t you tell me first that my Elle was here? I was worried for nothing. I almost burned a kilo of my blood in worry."

    "You are the one jumping to conclusions," said Grandfather Xiang. "You definitely didn''t even give the chance to your informer to tell you that Raelle was home and handled everything."

    09:53

    Mu Chenyan touched her nose at being seen through like this.

    She suddenly got back her excitement and then asked, "So, what did Elle do? Tell me how she pped that old woman in the face. I wanna know." She rubbed her chin as she contemted, "Or should I check the CCTV footage for a better experience?"

    Grandfather pped her head, "Knock it off." He sighed heavily, "But I''ll tell you one thing, Yenay almost pped that woman for real. Not metaphorically but literally."

    Mu Chenyan''s eyes widened in shock when she heard that and she almost didn''t react for a full minute in disbelief.

 Chapter 1028: Sizing Her Up

    Chapter 1028: Sizing Her UpRaelle arrived at Shui Xian''spany without a hitch. Even if she didn''t inform beforeing over, everyone was too enthusiastic about her visit. Why wouldn''t they be? It was confirmed that she was thedy boss! With how much of a big deal their boss made out of the news of their wedding, it could be seen clearly what status she had in Shui Xian''s heart.

    So, only an idiot would actually dare to go against Master Xian at this time.

    "Hello, President Raelle," greeted Shui Xian''s assistant Ma Jin. He had been waiting right outside the elevator from the moment he heard that Raelle entered thepany.

    As for how he heard it? It was very obvious.

    Raelle''s presence had set off a storm within the chat groups in thepany. Every single person was talking about her and was even finding ways to see her in flesh and blood. Who would want to miss a chance to show their face in front of theirdy boss?

    "Hi, Ma Jin," replied Raelle. "Can I see my husband?"

    "Yes," replied Ma Jin without any hesitation. Why would he be hesitating? Hesitation would only get him sacked earlier.

    "Is he busy?" asked Raelle.

    "Master would never be busy for you."

    "Oh, no wonder my husband keeps you around. You really know how to talk."

    Ma Jin rubbed his nose, not knowing what to say in response to that.

    "You should take that as apliment," said Raelle. "As the personal assistant of the boss, if you don''t know how to talk, wouldn''t there be no need for you here?"

    Ma Jin paused before he humbly said, "Then thank you for thepliment, President Raelle."

    "Oh, you didn''t even realize it," responded Raelle as he frowned in confusion. "Byplimenting you I was actuallyplimenting the vision of my partner."

    For a moment, Ma Jin was truly at a loss. He did not expect to be fed this dog food out of nowhere but why didn''t he expect it actually? He should have expected it since it wasn''t even the first time it was happening. This was why he avoided being at ces with this PDA couple.

    "You can give this to me," Ma Jin extended his hand toward the box she was holding.

    "Do you think I can''t even carry that?" asked Raelle. "I''ve been carrying the multi-national empire on my delicate shoulders from the time you were still studying. Are you looking down on me by saying I can''t even carry a simple box?"

    Ma Jin was truly baffled but he got around it immediately as he said, "I didn''t mean that. It''s because I know that President Raelle is meant to do great things that I believe carrying this small box is insulting to your prestige."

    Raelle looked at him for a long while in silence making him a bit anxious. Damn! Why was it so difficult to stand still before President Raelle when she was all silent? It was so damn scary!

    "As I said, you''re really good at talking," Raelle finally broke the silence and Ma Jin could finally breathe a sigh of relief. It seemed he said the right thing. Great! "Now, be honest, is my husband busy?"

    "He is having a video conference," informed Ma Jin honestly this time. "But you can wait at the side."

    "No, I''ll wait outside," replied Raelle. She knew she''d be the biggest distraction to her husband if she showed up while he was working. No matter what, she didn''t want to affect his work. So, she decided to just wait out.

    "This..." Ma Jin fell into a dilemma. He didn''t think it was right but he could argue with Raelle actually.

    "Don''t worry," said Raelle. "I''m fine with waiting. Just show me the waiting area."

    "This way please," Ma Jin gestured with his hand and lead her to the waiting area before asking, "Anything you want to drink?"

    "No, thanks. You can get back to work. Don''t forget to inform me once he is done with his video conference."

    "I will," said Ma Jin as he turned to leave.

    Just like thest time she was here, Raelle could feel plenty of eyes on her. No, it should be mentioned that the attention on her was bigger this time. But she was very generous. She would let everyone see her and size her up and learn that they have nothing to fight with her. That way, she''d be able to eliminate 99% of sick delusional who thought they could get into their CEO''s bed by acting like a white lotus.

    Just like Ruan Meilin did.

    Raelle wasn''t naive enough to believe that there was just that delusional person in the wholepany. Her husband was so charming, she wouldn''t doubt for a second that only Ruan Meilin was caught by those charms.

    The number of females who found excuses to show up around her was greater than males. Most of those female employees looked like highlypetent people too. Raelle had always appreciated people who were serious about their work but those who had other agendas were really not to her liking.

    But considering this wasn''t herpany, she obviously wouldn''t do anything about these females who were sizing her up. She could just sit there being her and that was enough to insta kill thesedies who thought too highly of themselves and even believed that the rtionship between her and Shui Xian was purely out of business interests.

    It was soughable!

    "President Raelle, Master Xian is done with the video conference," Ma Jin came to inform Raelle who waited patiently for 30 minutes. He was the ufortable one during this time while Raelle looked way toofortable. But then again, she was thedy boss. She had the right to befortable.

    Deep down, Ma Jin also understood that Raelle wasn''t sofortable because she was thedy boss. She was just being herself as always and it was hard to understand her mindset.

 Chapter 1029 [Bonus chapter] Interesting Things

    Chapter 1029 [Bonus chapter] Interesting Things

    *Knock! Knock!*

    After knocking properly on the door, Raelle opened the door and called out, "Hubby!"

    Shui Xian looked up at the door and saw Raelle''s head popping in from the door, he was so surprised. "Baby, what are you doing here?"

    "You didn''t look for me today," Raelle said as she entered the office and closed the door behind her. "So, I decided to take the matters into my own hands ande to look for you."

    Shui Xian chuckled as he stood up and walked around the table to get to her. He saw her putting a box on the table and hugged her from behind. Nuzzling her hair, he said, "I was missing you so much."

    "You should drop the sweet-talking," she said.

    "Nah," was his response. Hefortably ced his chin on her shoulder as he added, "When did youe? Don''t tell me you waited outside?"

    "Or else? Should I have left since you''re busy?"

    "Silly! Didn''t I tell you I''m never busy for you?"

    Raelle shook her head, "Don''t find excuses to not work again. I won''t let you do it."

    Shui Xian groaned helplessly, "Baby, let''s have a proper discussion today. Work is more important or I am?"

    "We are not having this conversation," was her response.

    "No, I want to," he said as he let her go and turned her around to face her. "Let''s have this conversation!"

    "You know we can use this mouth for so many more interesting things than having this conversation."

    Shui Xian''s brows raised up before he knowingly inched closer to her and just as his lips were about to touch hers, she held his chin and turned his head around to look at the table where she ced the cream puffs saying, "I meant, we can eat the cream puffs, I got for you. I made the special trip to get these to you."

    Shui Xian tsked at that, "How can this be more interesting than what I have in mind?"

    "You''re saying that my effort and time in bringing this to you is unimportant?"

    Shui Xian froze and then shook his head like a rattle, "I don''t dare say that!"

    Raelle patted his cheek saying, "You better not."

    Seeing how she dropped the topic and sat down to open the box, Shui Xian heaved a sigh or relief and then helplessness washed all over him. He sat down beside her and watched her pushing the cream puff towards him, "Have some and tell me how it is. Although I didn''t bake it, Yue spent a lot of effort in making this."

    Shui Xian chuckled, "And you spent so much effort in bringing it to me."

    "You don''t need to alleviate my effort so high so unnecessarily. All I did was sit in the car and get here," answered Raelle. She knew what she did or didn''t do clearly. She wasn''t hungry forpliments so she won''t take credit for what she didn''t do.

    Her honesty was the reason she was an eyesore to so many people.

    "It''s delicious," said Shui Xian as he ate the small cream puff. It was truly delicious. "Tell Aunt Yue that I liked these a lot."

    "Then eat more," said Raelle. "Would you like it more if I was the one who baked it?"

    "No!" responded Shui Xian immediately. "Baby, don''t even think about trying this out."

    "Baking doesn''t involve knives or fire," replied Raelle. "It isn''t dangerous." She was still having the argument to this day with everyone around her. They''d let her have a fight with people but won''t let her go near fire or knives. When she met Shui Xian, she didn''t expect that his worry would be even worse than Mu Chenyan and Grandfather Xiang''s.

    "You''re right but there are other dangers," said Shui Xian. He thought about it carefully before saying, "Ah! That''s right. The oven is so hot, what if you touched the hot baking tray and burned your hands?"

    "That''s why they made protective gloves," responded Raelle. "Do you guys have to go so overboard? Am I really a fragile little doll?"

    "No, you''re my precious wifey," he said. "I told you even before. I just don''t think cooking is for you. You''re meant for greater things."

    "Your assistant said the same thing. It seems he learned it from you."

    "Really? I should give Ma Jin some bonus for having the eyes to see the truth."

    Raelle didn''t say anything in response and just sat there watching him eat. Oddly, she found it satisfying to just watch him enjoying the cream puffs. What was this thought? Where did ite from? She really couldn''t understand but couldn''t shake it off either because it was truly pleasing to see him just eating.

    She suddenly extended her hand and pinched his chin to turn his face towards her. Shui Xian raised his brow at her inquisitively and watched her face grew bigger in front of his eyes before her tongue darted out and licked the side of his lips taking the whipped cream in. Shui Xian''s eyes darkened as he saw this.

    She looked into his eyes before smacked her lips against his tightly. Shui Xian was pushed down on the couch as sheid on his body. There was cream on his hands and he didn''t dare touch her body in fear that he''d spoil her clothes but damn, he wanted to hold her so badly when she was teasing him like that.

    Raelle licked his lips and looked at him, "Now that I think about it, Hubby, you''re right. We could definitely do so much better with our mouths than just eat cream puffs."

    Shui Xian smiled at her words, "Is that so?" He sat up with her on hisp. He took the wet wipes and cleaned his hands and then supported her body as he looked into her eyes and said, "You do realize that I''m letting you escape now, right?"

    "If I wanted to escape, I wouldn''t be here," she responded.

 Chapter 1030: Making Decisions

    Chapter 1030: Making DecisionsEven if Shui Xian wanted to do something, he couldn''t do it at the office. He already came after days and had so much work to do. Besides, Raelle wouldn''t let him do it either because she didn''t want to disturb his work. He was left with no choice but to let go after ying around for a while.

    "Baby, you''re turning into a tease," grumbled Shui Xian as he buttoned up his shirt which was crumpled up. When he noticed how obvious it was that they had done something unspeakable just now, he went to get a new shirt from the room.

    "I always was one, no?" asked Raelle. "You said it yourself. Besides, I''m learning more from you. I told you. You''re a good teacher."

    "I can''t take this credit. It''s too heavy for me. Because I''m nothing before you. Have you ever seen a teacher being yed by his own student?"

    "I did," she replied.

    "Where?" he asked.

    "Here," she pointed at him and then at herself.

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched and he eventually gave up. There was no way he could win yet again. No surprise there. He better just stop fighting over it.

    Raelle also fixed her appearance as she told him, "I''m leaving now."

    "Why? You can stay," said Shui Xian.

    "And do what?"

    "Watch me?" he responded uncertainly. "Don''t you say I''m more pleasing to look at than anything else?"

    "That''s true," replied Raelle. "But can you really take it?" she questioned seriously. "What if my gaze burned you?"

    Shui Xian had to control himself with difficulty when he heard that. He turned to look at her and said, "If you start the fire, I''ll definitely ask you to extinguish it too."

    "Get to work," she pushed him towards his work desk. "This is why I don''t want to say. You''re gonna get nothing done."

    "I will," he replied. "I promise I''ll work properly. Just stay, okay? I''ll at most just nce at you every once in a while to soothe my tired eyes."

    Raelle thought about it before nodding, "Fine. I''ll stay. Pay attention to work."

    "Okay," he readily agreed while she went to look at his bookshelf to look for something to read. She knew if she really sat down without something to distract her, she''ll end up staring at Shui Xian for hours. And that was dangerous because it''d really start a fire that''d be hard to extinguish.

    Raelle finally found a book and sat down to read it. Whenever Shui Xian looked up, he''d find her sitting there with a book in her hands. Her slender fingers turned the pages of the book while her curledshes were lowered as her eyes were focused on the book. In the silent office, only the rustling sound of the pages could be heard along with asional keyboard tapping.

    When Ma Jin came in with a few department heads to report work to Shui Xian, this was a harmonious scene they all witnessed. Thest rays of sunlight fell on the side of Raelle''s frame and made her look perfectly sunkissed. She looked so peaceful sitting there.

    Shui Xian had to cough to snap these people out of their thoughts. Did they think he was invisible? They kept looking at his wife while he was right there! Had he been too nicetely?

    Raelle didn''t pay attention to these distractions as she read the book with attention. Even when those people reported work to Shui Xian, she didn''t pay attention to them. But it was more so because Shui Xian had asked them to keep their voices lowered in fear that they''d disturb his wife.

    Lately, he had been around Raelle all day and could be as clingy as he wanted to be. Who knew it''d be so difficult after getting back to work? So, when he saw Raelle, he was really happy. He couldn''t describe his happiness in words. That''s why he didn''t want her to leave. Even if she just sat there is silence, he''d be happy because he''d know she was there and he could see her whenever he looked up.

    In fact, Raelle also knew it all. She knew how fearful he had been since the time she got into the ident. He just wanted to keep her in front of his eyes. Even after she recovered he hadn''t. His situation seemed to be worse than her own. So, she was willing to indulge him. Why else would shee all the way here to bring him cream puffs?

    Once those people left, Raelle looked up and said, "Husband, I almost forgot to tell you."

    "Hm? What is it?"

    "I''m inviting Tang Hebe to our engagement," answered Raelle.

    Shui Xian didn''t have any reaction to that as he asked, "Because you want Justin to be there?"

    "Yes," replied Raelle. "My Husband really knows me." She took a pause and asked, "You don''t mind, do you?"

    "It''s you who wants to invite her, what can I mind about that?" he responded. "You can do whatever you want. Isn''t that clear between us?"

    "Yes, but I still have the responsibility to inform you since you''re my husband and as a wife, I should share my decisions with you. No, I should discuss it with you before making decisions."

    "We can discuss when there is a need to discuss," he said. "Something like this is not worth the discussion. You can invite everyone you want to invite. I have really nothing to say about that."

    "Okay," she said. In fact, she knew he''d react this way. "It''s just Opa wanted me to ask you since he thought you might not like it. After all, Tang Hebe is still your..."

    "No," Shui Xian interrupted her which he rarely did. "She and I have nothing to do with each other anymore. You''re inviting her as your guest. It doesn''t concern me."

    "That''s what I thought," shemented. "I''ll go to invite her then. I haven''t seen Justin since I got discharged anyway."

    Shui Xian looked up at her and shook his head. Once again, he wondered if it was alright to be a little jealous of a little kid who didn''t even reach his waist?

 Chapter 1031: No More Complications

    Chapter 1031: No More Complications"Ya! Huang Shuyi! Are you looking for death?!"

    Huang Shuyi ruffled his red hair as he opened the door of the dorm while yawning and got an earful first thing in the morning. He looked at his oldest and most annoying friend and really wanted to throw her out somewhere!

    "What are you ring at? I haven''t even red at you yet!" came Xiang Wai''s raging voice.

    "Hello to you too, Wai!"

    "I don''t wanna hear it," she said. "I''m mad right now. Can''t you tell?"

    "You even shook the heaven with your angry roar, I''d be an idiot if I couldn''t tell you''re mad."

    Xiang Wai rolled her eyes at his words, "Drop that. I''m serious."

    "Come inside and talk," said Huang Shuyi. Although there was only one other apartment on the same floor as their dorm, he didn''t want to disturb people. Even if he never saw anyone entering that apartment, he knew someone lived there.

    And sure enough, the door of the apartment opposite opened and a tall figure stepped out with a towel around his neck and hair dripping with water. Both Huang Shuyi and Xiang Wai looked at the person and the person also looked up at them. He seemed to be wanting to say something but stepped when he saw Huang Shuyi and Xiang Wai.

    In fact, both Huang Shuyi and Xiang Wai also paused when they saw him.

    Xiang Wai narrowed her eyes and said, "You''re Cui Xukun, right?"

    Cui Xukun nodded his head, "Yes. Hello, Miss Xiang Wai. Hi, Mr. Huang."

    "Your memory is good,"mented Xiang Wai. "We only met once and you remember us."

    "I''m awyer," was the only exnation that Cui Xukun gave and it felt like that was the only exnation needed anyway. "I rarely see who my neighbors are and didn''t know Mr. Huang lives here."

    "Actually, all my members lived here. It''s only recently that they all started moving out."

    Cui Xukun nodded, "I just moved this year so I didn''t know." Cui Xukun paused and thought back to when he saw a figure that looked like Cloe here in the elevator and he thought he was overthinking it. Now, it seems he wasn''t wrong. He must have seen Cloe back then and yet, he had to take a detour to meet her on a blind date. "You can continue. I won''t disturb you guys." With that, he closed the door and didn''t even mention that they were being very loud and disturbing early in the morning.

    But Huang Shuyi still understood and pulled Xiang Wai inside the apartment saying, "Can you stop being so loud outside? It''s a blessing it was an acquaintance. A stranger wouldn''t be so nice to just let this go."

    "Everyone is loud in the military," she grumbled as she changed her shoes and wore the slippers he ced before her.

    "This isn''t your barracks," he retorted. Then he brought her in and asked her to take a seat. Only after offering her some water to cool down did he ask, "Now, please tell me why your temper is so off early in the morning?"

    "Isn''t it because of you?" she shot back at him. "How dare you tell people I had a crush on you?"

    "Did I say that?" he scratched his head trying to think about it.

    "I heard it from Yue Fai!" she told him. "He told me that when all of his members were sharing the experience of their first love, you mentioned me. You said you had a crush on me or I had a crush on you. Either way, it''s not eptable!"

    Now that she mentioned it in detail, Huang Shuyi recalled what she was talking about and rolled his eyes at her, "I wasn''t talking about you. I never even mentioned your name. How many times have I told you that I''m not blind like your Captain? Why would I want a temper queen like you in my life? I love peace and silence. You''re way too loud and violent for my taste!"

    "Huh! You just have bad taste," shemented. "You should just go and marry a nun then."

    "Nuns don''t marry," he reminded her.

    "Oh, poor you then."

    "Is that the point here?" he asked.

    Xiang Wai realized she went off track and red at him again, "You!"

    "Stop!" he held up his hand to stop her. "You and I both are clear about what rtionship we have. When we were sharing about our first love experience, I only talked about my desk mate."

    "I''m the desk mate," she yelled. "I have always been your desk mate!"

    He rolled his eyes, "You sat on my right but do you remember that there was always someone on my left as well?"

    Xiang Wai went silent when he mentioned this. "I wasn''t just unlucky enough to always have you on my right side. I was lucky enough to have her on my left side as well."

    Xiang Wai cringed at his words and wanted to punch him for no reason but held herself back. She only came for one reason. "So, you weren''t talking about me right?"

    "No," he replied seriously.

    Xiang Wai patted her chest as if she got rid of some huge burden. "That''s good. That''s very good. As long as that''s not me."

    "You ran over here just for this?" he asked.

    "Or else? I got scared that you had feelings for me or something. The idea of that made me want to kill someone."

    "Am I that bad?"

    "No. But you and I... You''re my friend. I don''t wantplications."

    "We areplicated enough," he reminded her kindheartedly.

    "That''s why I said. No moreplications to make it even moreplicated. For now, theplication makes sense to me but once you add more trouble than it won''t make sense to me as well."

    "I really don''t know what makes sense to you," he said and closed his eyes. "I can''t believe you ruined my sleep for this. I was shooting the program sote at night, you dumbo!"

    "Who did you call a dumbo?!" she retorted.

    "You!"

    And then she picked a pillow to hit him and he did the same to attack. As they fought their pillow fight, one of the closed doors opened and Fang Yiwen walked out. When he looked at them, he shook his head as heplimented, "So childish."

 Chapter 1032: See Everything Clearly

    Chapter 1032: See Everything Clearly"What do you think about this design?" asked Shui Xian as he showed a dress design. Raelle looked at it before looking at him as if questioning him about what he was up to. "Oh. You don''t know. So, it''s like this. Yanyan chose five designs as your engagement gown. Now, we have to decide on the final piece."

    "Why she sent it to you than sending it to me?" inquired Raelle.

    "Because I know better what you look good in," he replied calmly.

    "I''m the one who is gonna wear it," she said.

    "And I''m the one who is gonna tear it off of you," he said.

    This sounded very familiar to both of them as they paused and looked at each other calmly. Finally, Raelle dropped the topic, "Then why are you asking for my opinion? Just pick the one you like."

    "She actually wants to send all the pieces home and let you try them on."

    Raelle instinctively took a step away from him.

    Shui Xian found it amusing and shook his head, "I know. That''s why I didn''t allow that. I won''t let you go through something so troublesome. I like these two a lot." He showed her the ones he liked and she agreed that both were really good. "But I''ll have to think some more to choose the final one." Thinking of something, added, "In fact, Yanyan''s original n was to make you wear all five pieces on the engagement."

    "Huh?"

    He nodded in response, "One at the start of the party, one for the ring exchange. One for greeting the guests and toasting them. One to wear on the dance floor and thest one just for fun."

    "That''d be more like a fashion show than an engagement party then," responded Raelle.

    "That''s what I thought."

    "All I''d do is change the clothes."

    Shui Xian nodded his head again, "So, that''s why I convinced her to drop that idea no matter how excited she is about it. Aren''t I good?"

    "Are you looking for praise, husband?"

    "Can I get some?"

    "You can get it all. You can get whatever you want," she said.

    Shui Xian smiled in response and then told her, "Our engagement rings are here. Did you see?"

    "Yes," she replied.

    "Do you like them?"

    "We chose them together," reminded Raelle. "Why wouldn''t I like them?"

    "It''s more like I chose them," said Shui Xian.

    "And your choice is mine,"mented Raelle. "You know, husband and wife are of one heart."

    "Yes, yes."

    Raelle was actually holding the box of their engagement rings in her hands. She took them out and looked at them again. She wore the ring on her ring finger to see if it fit or not and then she put Shui Xian''s ring on her pinky finger. The ring was already bigger for her size but wearing it on her pinky was like a kid trying on an adult''s ring.

    She just wore the rings side by side and looked at her hand carefully.

    Shui Xian didn''t know what she was doing since her back was towards him and his attention was on the designs. He was already in a dilemma about which dress to pick out. Both were so gorgeous and he knew for sure that Raelle would look stunning in both. This made him greedy like Mu Chenyan, he also wanted to see her wearing both.

    Damnit! He finally understood why Mu Chenyan had that crazy idea to turn their engagement party into Raelle''s solo fashion show. It was so damn obvious that they just wanted to see Raelle in these gorgeous dresses since it was difficult to pick only one that''d suit her.

    "I''m going to deliver the engagement card to my mother tomorrow," informed Raelle to Shui Xian.

    He paused and looked up at her. She didn''t turn around and just sat there with her back towards him as she told him.

    "Where are you delivering it? Did you ask her to see you outside?"

    "Nope," answered Raelle.

    "Then how will you bring it to her?" he asked.

    "I have my way," she replied.

    "Do you want me toe with you?" he asked the real question he was concerned about in all this.

    "Don''t you find it ufortable to be around her?" asked Raelle in return.

    Shui Xian cleared his throat. He couldn''t deny that. Who asked his mother-inw to give him the same vibes as his wife? And he was used to Raelle''sck of expressions, it was strange to be around Song Xin''ai and feel like you''re looking at another version of Raelle.

    Even the way she spoke was so simr. That''s why he wasn''t surprised that Raelle actually got along with her. They both had so much resemnce.

    "Can you me me for feeling ufortable?" he asked.

    "I won''t me you for such things," she told him. "If you want toe, you can. If you don''t want toe, that''s fine too. Either way, I''m okay. After delivering it to her, I''ll be going to Tang Hebe. I heard she got discharged. I found her address, so I''ll be going there."

    "Hmm..." Shui Xian hummed in response. "Well, you should. There isn''t much time left before our engagement anyway."

    "We''d be over with it all if Yanyan wasn''t being so perfectionist," said Raelle.

    "I won''t say anything about that," said Shui Xian. "Yanyan is just over the moon these days. I feel like she has endless energy. She is alwaysughing and I''m not even used to seeing herughing that much. I feel like she is even more excited than she''d ever be for her own engagement."

    "We won''t know that unless she gets engaged," was Raelle''s response and Shui Xian couldn''t argue with that.

    "That''s true. But is it possible?"

    "Very!" said Raelle. "If only Yanyan takes off the blindfold she willingly wore, everything is possible."

    "Wow! My wife is getting even more powerful."

    "I think my understanding is better than ever now. So, I can see everything clearly."

 Chapter 1033: Got Goosebumps

    Chapter 1033: Got Goosebumps"I''m gonna shave off your fiery head!"

    Huang Shuyi rolled his eyes for the umpteenth time today since he met this woman! He was going mad but he could do nothing at all. He didn''t pay attention to her and continued to find the right hat to hide his head full of red hair. He was certain that if he didn''t do it properly, she''d certainly find something to shave off his head.

    "What are you? A traffic light?" Xiang Wai was still not satisfied when she saw him in a bucket hat that really hid his hair perfectly. "You look like a walking red g with that hair."

    "But in reality, I''m the greenest g out there," he finally retorted. "What does that teach us? That we shouldn''t judge people from their outer appearance. It can be deceiving."

    Now, it was Xiang Wai''s turn to roll her eyes at him.

    "I don''t even know why I even agreed to go out with you to eat. It''s real trouble. It takes more than an hour for you to even get ready."

    Huang Shuyi turned to look at her, "What? I''m offering you a free meal and you''re stillining? Can''t it shut you up?"

    "I haven''t seen that free meal yet," she shot back. "Why should I shut up?"

    He pulled on his face mask and dragged her out saying, "Stop talking. That also wastes time."

    Huang Shuyi wore the most inconspicuous clothes so he wouldn''t get recognized on the streets. He knew if even one person came to talk to him, Xiang Wai would lose her patience and he''d have to take the burnt. Not like he could avoid it now.

    "Wai, why are you here to see me today?" Huang Shuyi asked as he got into her car because that was the safer option.

    "I told you," she answered.

    Huang Shuyi turned to look at her as he said, "Stop lying to me all the time. I''m serious."

    "So am I," she replied.

    "Xiang Wai!"

    Xiang Wai sighed, "Can''t Ie? I wanted to see where you lived."

    "Did you have to make such a scene just to see my ce?"

    Xiang Wai nodded her head, "Why not? How would you know that the storm ising if there is no thundering sound?" She took a moment before she said, "By the way, I''ve been thinking about who your other deskmate was and it finally came to my mind."

    Huang Shuyi gave her an odd look because he did not expect that she was still thinking about what he said.

    Her eyes narrowed as she said, "If my memory serves me right. Your first crush is then married and even is a mother of two."

    "Dare tough and I''m gonna throw you out," he threatened.

    "It''s my car," she reminded him. "Let''s see how you can throw me out. Let''s not forget that your muscles are for image, mine are very real and trained through real battles. You can''t even move my finger."

    "Not like I could do it when we were younger," he said.

    Xiang Waiughed happily at that and even added, "Of course, how can I grow up weak? Wouldn''t I have been bullied to death if I showed weakness?"

    Huang Shuyi suddenly froze when he heard and a memory shed through his mind. He closed his eyes and shook his head as he looked at her with aplicated look in his eyes.

    "I have a boyfriend."

    "What?"

    "I said, I have a boyfriend."

    "I know," he said. "I''m just wondering why did you feel the need to bring that up again."

    "Just reminding you. Don''t look at me with those eyes."

    Huang Shuyi shook his head at her but was smiling underneath his mask. The way she looked had changed. How strange that now she was more lively. Now, her temper was mixed in with mischievousness which wasn''t like her. She used to always have a gloomy air around her as if the world owed her something.

    But now, she suddenly became very rxed and carefree.

    Whether someone else could see it or not, he could. Even during her rebellious years as a student, she always hid her loneliness. He had seen it clearly. She was always surrounded by admirers but she was still alone. And when she joined the military, it worsened. She became more serious and more temperamental and impulsive.

    Now, it looked like the answer was always the same.

    Xiang Wai just needed a family who gave her love and attention.

    Such a simple solution and it took her so long to find her answers and her real smile as well.

    "I''ll tell you honestly, I really had a crush on you once," he suddenly ended up and Xiang Wai almost mmed on the brakes to look at him but held herself back since they were on the main road and she''d cause a big ident if she pulled up there.

    "What are you saying now?"

    "Oh, don''t you remember?" he asked. "Seventh grade, you hit me with your basketball and I fainted."

    "Weak chicken!" she spit out disdainfully.

    "me is on you! Do you not even realize how strong your shot was?" He was feeling his blood boiling with her words. She really brought out the worst of him whenever she was around. "Besides, I had stayed awake studying for exams the previous night. It''s not because I was a weak chicken that I fainted!"

    "Whatever floats your boat."

    He calmed himself down before he started again, "So, when I fainted, you came to help me and even shook me awake. That''s when I opened my eyes and saw you, I thought there was a halo around you and you looked so beautiful. I felt like I was falling in love."

    Xiang Wai got goosebumps just listening about it. She wasn''t really serious about this whole first crush discussion. In truth, she only came to see Huang Shuyi because she only had this friend. At least, the only friend who was sincere enough to always call out on her mistakes.

 Chapter 1034: [Bonus chapter] Fangirl

    Chapter 1034: [Bonus chapter] Fangirl"Ah! It shows even you couldn''t escape my charms."

    Huang Shuyi gave her a look. "I''m not done yet."

    "No, I only need to hear this much."

    "No, but I want to share the full story."

    "Don''t wanna know!" she was insistent on not letting him continue. She knew he wasn''t gonna say anything nice so it was better to stop him while it sounded good.

    But of course, he wasn''t willing to give up either. "So, when I was slowly inching closer to the edge of the cliff and about to fall into the abyss of love, your voice pulled me back by saying, ''If you''re looking for a ce to sleep again, sleep somewhere else. Why are you here on the basketball court? To court death?''" He sighed as he recalled all that. "And that was enough to shatter my first love. I finally got back to my senses and almost despised myself for even thinking for a split second that you''re beautiful."

    "I believe none of that," she told him.

    "Who cares?" he shrugged and put on his shades as she pulled into the parking lot.

    They came into one of the best restaurants in the city. Xiang Wai hade here with her mother and brother before. She loved the food. And because it was quite expensive, she wanted to scrape off ayer of Huang Shuyi''s skin with this free meal.

    It''s not like her intentions were actually hidden from him who literally grew up with her but it didn''t matter. He really didn''t care what she was up to. He didn''tck this money. It''s not like they ate together all the time. It was already a miracle that she came to look for him and even agreed to go out for a meal too.

    "How''s your boyfie?"

    "What?" she gave him a disgusted look. "Talk properly or I''ll knock off your teeth."

    "I have never seen you talk like this with Zhai Yanjun."

    "He is my boyfriend. What''s your status?"

    "I''m your closest friend. You know the thing called best friend!"

    Xiang Wai didn''t argue with that and nodded her head as she said, "Indeed, you are my best friend. Kind of. And it''s because of this status that I can be so unrestrained with you."

    "You''re always unrestrained," he reminded her as they entered the restaurant. "I''ve never seen you insulting people as you do with me."

    "I''ve told you before. You bring out the worst of me."

    Huang Shuyiughed at that, "Oh well, then I''m d that I''m so special."

    He walked over and inquired about a private room. As the best restaurant in the city, it was difficult to get even a table without a reservation but he was still willing to try his luck.

    The staff was just about to tell him that no private room was avable when her eyes fell on Xiang Wai and she immediately changed her words, "Please, follow me."

    That small movement didn''t escape Huang Shuyi''s eyes and when they were brought to the VIP private room which was even more difficult to reserve, Huang Shuyi frowned. Looking at how the usher was looking at Xiang Wai, he was certain that this treatment was for her.

    "How does it feel to be treated with so much respect after entering the Xiang family house?" asked Huang Shuyi after they sat down and ordered the meal.

    Xiang Wai was pouring the tea when she heard it and frowned in response, "What do you mean?"

    "Don''t tell me you didn''t see what just happened? They clearly had no private room but suddenly even a VIP private room is avable. Even if I''m a celebrity, it''s my first time to enter this VIP private room. It''s that difficult to get it."

    Xiang Wai smiled at that, "Then you bask in the glory of my Aunt like me."

    "Huh?" he was confused.

    Xiang Wai put down the tea cup and looked at him, "This restaurant''s real boss is someone who calls my aunt his boss. Of course, since I''m her niece, they''d try to show some respect, no? Tsk. I feel like I won''t be getting a free meal from you."

    "Why?"

    "Because they won''t be letting us pay," she replied as she shrugged. After all, she had met her aunt herest time too and even the real boss of the restaurant. From how they revered her aunt Yan, she really wasn''t all that surprised that the staff not only recognized her but also treated her so politely.

    She was being treated as the real VIP today. Oh, it felt so good.

    "Your aunt is..." Huang Shuyi paused before saying, "Very nice."

    Xiang Wai was stunned to hear thatment from him because she didn''t think he''d say that. She raised her brows at him as she asked, "Why do you say that?"

    "Whenever we went over, she always makes so much for us. She even took note of what each of likes to eat. She said we can go over any time. She also said to look for her if there is ever any trouble. Although none of us actually took that seriously, now I can see why she said it so confidently."

    "You''re looking down on her if you think she can''t do something," was Xiang Wai''sment. "I''ll tell you..." And then Major Xiang Wai turned into a proper fangirl who started gushing about how cool and amazing her aunt was. She went on and on but Huang Shuyi also listened patiently. He was actually very interested in knowing more about Mu Chenyan but he had his own reasons for that interest.

    "Take a break and drink some tea to moisten up your mouth," he offered her some tea when he saw how dry her mouth was now. Suddenly, his phone rang and he took it out to check the messages while Xiang Wai was drinking tea. But as her eyes zoomed in on that curve of his lips, she raised her brow in interest.

    "Shuyi, are you seeing someone?"

 Chapter 1035: Mannerless

    Chapter 1035: MannerlessHuang Shuyi was momentarily caught off guard when he heard that question from her but when he looked at her expression that showed her excitement over fishing for gossip, he found it really amusing.

    "What are you talking about?"

    Seeing him ying dumb, Xiang Wai pointed at his phone, "Your smile says it all."

    Huang Shuyi restrained his smile and said, "Haven''t you heard a popr inte saying?"

    "What?"

    "Just because someone is looking at their phone with a smile doesn''t mean, they are dating."

    Xiang Wai snorted, "You think you can fool me with that?" She pointed at his nose as she said, "Spill it out."

    "There is nothing to spill," he said. "I didn''t even eat breakfast today because of your untimely visit. So, I can''t even spill that out."

    "Disgusting!" she made a face at him. "Does your fans know how you talk?"

    "They are my fans and that''s why they have the delusions that I''m perfect and they can date me or whatever. You''re my best friend. You have no such delusions because you know all my drawbacks just like I know yours. What does that mean? It means you and I can''t possibly even think about finding each other attractive."

    "All that talk just to avoid answering my question about whether you''re seeing someone or not?"

    Huang Shuyi sighed at that and answered honestly, "Yes. I am seeing someone. Are you happy to know that?"

    "Who is it?" she asked further. "Now, don''t say I don''t know her so it''s pointless to tell me."

    Huang Shuyi took a moment before saying, "Actually you do know her."

    Xiang Wai straightened up to hear the name, but their meal was served right then. Only after the waiters had left did she turn back to him waiting for him to continue.

    "That''s all I''m telling you for now," he said. "It''s too soon for me to talk about this rtionship with my best friend."

    "No, it isn''t. If you share it with me, I can give you tips."

    Huang Shuyi Haha-ed at her face as he went, "Why would I be looking for dating tips from you? You still need a love guru to tell you what is even wrong with your rtionship. Why would I go to you?"

    "Hey! At least, I ain''t single like you!"

    "I''ve been single by choice."

    "You all singles say that when you have no way to argue. In truth, you all are just jealous!"

    "Now, by that onement, you can literally rile up the singlemunity. Be careful. They might being after you with knives in their hands."

    Xiang Wai shrugged, "You can''t me me for saying that. I''ve heard this ''I''m single by choice''ment way too many times. It gets on my nerves. The better answer would be that all these singles never found good partners."

    He picked up the chopsticks as he said to her, "I''ll introduce her to you at your sister''s engagement banquet."

    "You''re invited?"

    He red at her, "Just because you''re not inviting doesn''t mean others are not as well. Your family is a lot more sensible than you."

    "Whether I invited or my family, it''s the same thing. Either way, you''re invited. Just get over it." She also started eating and suddenly said, "By the way, I''m happy for you. I really was worried that you''d one day shave off your head and go to a monastery to be a monk or something."

    "I did have this thought," he told her. "I thought about it seriously for a long time and came to the conclusion that I couldn''t be a monk."

    "Why? Can''t leave this world''s desires behind?"

    He shook his head, "You and I both know I can give up on anything. It''s just that I can''t give up my..."

    "Sleep," she finished his words for him.

    Huang Shuyi nodded his head, "Yes, that. I can''t leave my sleep behind and I''m pretty sure monks even spend days without sleeping or eating as they worship. I''m not afraid of hardships but I love my sleep more than my life."

    Xiang Waiughed at him and shook her head at him, "You''re really impossible. How can you still sleep like a pig? Can you grow up?"

    "I think my sleep also grew up with my age," was his answer.

    "Excuses!" shemented and decided to focus on eating.

    In fact, they still brought up some random topics like how their ssmates were doing and which ones they were in contact with. Some old memories or old anecdotes. Sharing their future ns and stuff. All in all, it was a happy meal.

    After the meal, Xiang Wai excused herself as she wanted to use the washroom and stepped out of the VIP private room. As she was looking for the washroom, she ran into someone she didn''t want to see and didn''t expect to see there either. But then again, it was difficult to not run into each other being in the same city.

    "Oh, look, it''s my dear little cousin!"

    What? Wasn''t that face enough to make her want to punch it that she had to open her mouth to call Xiang Wai? Now, Xiang Wai felt like really resorting to violence but had to hold herself back and remind herself repeatedly that she couldn''t do it. Not here.

    "Where are your manners? Aren''t you gonna greet your elder cousin now?" asked the woman who was dressed in an elegant green dress and looked at Xiang Wai with extreme displeasure.

    "Aren''t I a wild child whose parents don''t want her? How can I have impable manners?" retorted Xiang Wai. "No one was there to teach me. Whatever I have is all learned by watching you. Are you saying you''re also mannerless since I learned from you?"

    "You!" The woman''s eyes condensed and she red at Xiang Wai as if she wanted to peel off her skin right there. And seeing the smirk on Xiang Wai''s lips made her madder.

 Chapter 1036: [Bonus chapter] Someone To Bully

    Chapter 1036: [Bonus chapter] Someone To BullyThe woman suddenly snorted, "Your wings have hardened just because you''re now a military officer?" She rolled her eyes, "But don''t forget, I can still tell aunt that you insulted me."

    Xiang Waiughed at her words, "Aww... You''re still gonna tattletale? How unoriginal. By the way, you''re wee to do so."

    It wasn''t the first time and she had long stopped caring. In fact, she used to care when she was younger when these people wouldin to her mother about how mannerless her child was. Her mom would look at her with a cold face and then ground her. It''s not like she ever hit her or reprimanded her for such things.

    At that time, she felt her mother was biased and didn''t want to know her side of the story.

    But now, she had figured out everything. In fact, her mother never looked at her with a cold face. She just looked at her nkly just like Raelle always did. She never understood that her mom wasn''t actually grounding her. She was familiar with her daughter and she knew perfectly well that no matter how many times she grounded her, Xiang Wai would still find a way to slip out and have fun.

    But Song Xin''ai never did anything about it. In front of her maternal family, she''d just make it clear that she had already taken care of her daughter.

    Xiang Wai never had the urge to understand her mother before. It was only after she met Raelle and learned that Raelle didn''t even me Song Xin''ai for not choosing her back then that Xiang Wai came to reflect on what she had been doing. She had been pretty harsh with her mother but that woman was never really impatient she never exined herself either which only created more misunderstandings between them.

    "Now, you don''t even respect aunt? Tsk. What can be expected from an ingrate like you? You don''t even respect the people who raised you."

    Xiang Wai hated to hear that and she red at this woman called, Song Yu.

    "Who raised who? Do you think I''m still a kid who doesn''t know anything? Who do you even think you are? Your Song family raised me? Don''t make meugh at that. I''m not the ingrate. You all are. My mother lift your family''s prestige up. It''s my mother''s hard work that your Song family still has some status in this city. Otherwise, do you think you all even deserve to be in the upper-ss circle? Don''t make meugh."

    "If we don''t then do you?" shot back Song Yu angrily. "I''m married to the biggest real estate boss in our state. What are you? Just a puny military officer and your eyes are already up so high?"

    "Congrattions to you for that real estate boss!" said Xiang Wai. "How is it to guard the empty house and pretend to be a loving wife of a..." she lowered her voice and went on, "Gay man?"

    Song Yu was shaken when she heard that. Her whole body trembled in disbelief while Xiang Wai thoroughly enjoyed that expression of hers.

    "What? Very shocked that I know this secret of yours?" asked Xiang Wai. "Just because I ignore you doesn''t mean I''m scared of you. It just means I find it below me to even talk to people like you. Who are you? Why should I waste my time on you? I''d rather spend that time with my sister." She was really feeling it was her misfortune to even run into this pest here. Why did she even have to run into someone from the Song family of all people?

    If there was someone she hated in this world? It was that Song family for so many reasons!

    Song Yu raised her hand as if she wanted to p Xiang Wai but how could a pampereddy be a match for Xiang Wai? Major easily caught her wrist and even twisted it behind her back making her yelp in pain. It was so painful that Song Yu''s tears came out.

    Xiang Wai was really enraged now, "I was young back then and you could p me when my mother wasn''t around. Do you still think I''m a child without parents? Guess what? I''m not. Let me remind you, I''m not a Song. I''m a Xiang. If you don''t know who Xiangs are, you better go ask your grandparents who always wanted to cozy up to my family. Don''t alwayse looking for trouble with me. Am I someone you can bully?"

    This is something Xiang Wai learned from Raelle as well. As a Xiang, she should always remember what family''s blood ran through her veins. And where Xiangs someone could bully? Huh! Who had the guts to even touch their family?

    She pushed her away and Song Yu fell on the ground because of her high heels and because Xiang Wai''s push wasn''t a soft one. She looked down at her and said, "Next time, you see me, change your route. Or I''ll put photos of your husband being fucked by his underground lover on billboards and show you what I can really do."

    Song Yu was horrified as she stared at Xiang Wai whom she had bullied a lot when they were younger. So what if Xiang Wai was stronger, she was still younger than most of them in the Song family and an easy target for all of them.

    Xiang Wai didn''t look at her and didn''t want to go to the washroom anymore either. She turned around and found Huang Shuyi all decked up in his hat and shades and face mask as he leaned against the wall and watched it all.

    Xiang Wai pursed her lips and then walked toward him. As she came to him, he patted her head, "Major, I know you finally grew up." Xiang Wai didn''t feel embarrassed about what he saw. After all, she knew what he had seen when they were younger. And indeed, Huang Shuyi was truly happy to see that tables had turned now. It could never be Xiang Wai who would be cornered by anyone ever again.

 Chapter 1037: Its Your Daughter

    Chapter 1037: It''s Your DaughterSong Xin''ai was rubbing her sore neck as she unlocked her locker while yawning. She clearly was tired and severelycked sleep.

    "Professor Song, you pulled another all-nighter?"

    Song Xin''ai looked up at the person who spoke who was a rather young researcher on their team and only joined the research center about six months or so.

    He was even younger than her own son and that''s why she always looked at him very kindly.

    "Why don''t you care about yourself?" The young man sounded rather vexed and helpless as he spoke. "At this rate, you''ll get sick again. Why do you keep pushing your body?"

    "Harry, you''re here early again?"

    "Professor Song, don''t change the topic."

    Song Xin''ai sighed to herself and how persistent and downright stubborn this young man was. He was good in everything except that he loved to nag. Although she knew he didn''t nag everyone and only a few privileged ones had that right, she still couldn''t get used to his nagging.

    "I''m used to this," she told him.

    "And you think that''s a healthy lifestyle? As a medical researcher, you should be clear about what our body means to us. How can you keep abusing yourself?"

    "Woah! That''s a strong word. I''m not abusing anyone. It''s just that I find peace when I''m working."

    The young man named Harry shook his head at her, "To me, it feels more like you''re escaping something."

    Song Xin''ai only gave him a smile in response and didn''t say anything at all. What could she say that she didn''t want to go back to her cold and empty room? Or that she was just escaping the void in her life she created herself? In fact, there was nothing to say.

    "Professor Song, someone is looking for you," came a fellow researcher''s voice and Song Xin''ai looked up at her.

    "Looking for me?" She was a little surprised to hear this.

    "Yes."

    "Who is it?" Asked Song Xin''ai as she unbuttoned her white coat and walked over.

    "They said it''s your daughter."

    "My daughter?" Song Xin''ai was even more dumbfounded now. Xiang Wai? Why would shee to the researchb to look for her? Song Xin''ai threw her coat behind and rushed out wondering what happened to make Xiang Waie to look for her. It really made her worry and one look could tell anyone how anxious she was right now.

    As she came to reception she inquired and was directed toward the visitor''s room. Song Xin''ai opened the door and was left stunned.

    For no other reason but that the daughter who came to look for her wasn''t Xiang Wai. It was actually Raelle Xiang.

    It wasn''t that she didn''t think of Raelle when she was told that her daughter was here but the thing was, even in her wildest dreams she didn''t think Raelle would reallye to see her. Thest Raelle asked to see her on her own initiative was already unbelievable and Song Xin''ai didn''t think she could be this lucky again.

    But the truth was, she really turned out to be so fortunate and Raelle really did show up there.

    "Professor Song," greeted Raelle as she stood up and the research center''s director who had been chatting with her also stood up. Firstly, he didn''t think he''d be weing Raelle Xiang this morning into their research facility, and secondly, he didn''t expect Raelle Xiang to be rted to their ace researcher Song Xin''ai. But thinking about it, it wasn''t all that difficult to ept either. The older one was a genius researcher and the younger one was a genius businesswoman. Both were impably talented.

    He was slightly surprised when Raelle called Song Xin''ai, Professor Song, and not mom but he didn''t think much about it.

    "Little Song, you''re here. President Raelle had been waiting for you," said the director, and from his tone, it was obvious that he was trying to tter Raelle.

    Song Xin''ai narrowed her eyes slightly at her director. She knew this old fox very well. He wasn''t usually this easy to talk to.

    But he was being way too respectful to Raelle. How interesting. She didn''t think her daughter could still surprise her more with how capable she was.

    "Director," called out Song Xin''ai.

    Director smiled at her even more amiably than before and turned to leave. He couldn''t stick around anymore so he reluctantly took his leave.

    "Have a seat," said Raelle as she sat backfortably. She definitely didn''t look like she was here for the first time and was unfamiliar with this ce. She definitely looked like she owned the ce.

    Song Xin''ai smiled at that thought. She hade to believe that no matter where Raelle was, she''d make that ce seem like it belonged all to her.

    "Were you expecting Xiang Wai?" Asked Raelle without beating around the bush. "You looked surprised to see me."

    "Even if it was really Xiang Wai who hade, I''d still be surprised. It''s just that you... I never thought to see you here. So, it came as more of a shock."

    "Oh." That was all the response Raelle gave.

    "What brought you here, Raelle?"

    Raelle took out the invitation card from her bag and ced it on the table right in front of Song Xin''ai who eyed the card and then picked it up to see.

    As she read the details on the card, she was momentarily stunned. It seemed she got a lot of surprises whenever she met Raelle. This daughter of hers was really full of surprises.

    "You''re here to invite me to your engagement party?" Asked Song Xin''ai just to reconfirm what she just read. It was actually a little difficult for her to digest considering her rtionship with either Raelle or the Xiang family. She was not expecting to be invited at all.

    Normally, mothers don''t need invitations for their children''s engagements but they had a different family where it was full ofplications.

    She never yed the role of a mother to Raelle and because of that Raelle had no obligation to give her the status of a mother as well. However, the more she interacted with Raelle, the more she fell into thoughts regarding what exactly was on her mind.

    She thought she understood Raelle and yet it waspletely not understandable. Well, that sentence didn''t make much sense just like Song Xin''ai didn''t make any sense in the presence of Raelle.

    "You''re not invited as my mother," Raelle made that clear not even considering for a minute whether her words would hurt the other person or not. She wasn''t that considerate to just anyone. "I''m inviting you as Professor Song. A female researcher whom I definitely think highly of."

    Song Xin''ai didn''t feel disappointed. In fact, her first feeling was joy to know that she got acknowledged by her daughter. This little genius actually said that she thought highly of. What a greatpliment! What more could she ask for?

    "Thank you," said Song Xin''ai. "I don''t know what made you think so highly of me but thank you. Those words mean a lot to me."

    "Professor Song, you really belittle yourself. Why are you so unconfident about who you are?"

    "Let me ask you something too,''" started Song Xin''ai. "Who helped you be confident about who you are?"

    Raelle didn''t even have to think before she answered, "My Opa and Yanyan. They told me I''m the best."

    Song Xin''ai smiled warmly at her when she heard it. Raelle had already figured out that her mother''s expressions were as limited as her own. It''s just Song Xin''ai had learned better control over her expression and was a little more expressive inparison to Raelle. But right now, the smile on her face told Raelle that it wasing straight from her heart.

    "I''m very thankful that you had a family to tell you at every step of the way how amazing you are. I had no one to tell me that. Perhaps that''s what shaped me into this weird person I am today."

    "You''re not weird,"mented Raelle. "Don''t you think I''m weirder inparison?"

    Song Xin''ai shook her head, "Perhaps we were molded from the same y. But the hands that molded you into who you are were always covered with the water of love and patience. I wasn''t so lucky. The hands that molded me shaped me crooked."

    Raelle stared at her in silence.

    "So, I could never be like you in the truest sense. When the roots are bad, how can the tree grow straight and tall? It''ll always be leaning down."

    "You don''t share these things with others, right?" Asked Raelle.

    Song Xin''ai shook her head, "No one will understand it. Not many people did. And when someone really did understand it all..."

    "You got scared of that person and ran," Raelle Completed her sentence for her. And Song Xin''ai was leftughing bitterly as she nodded.

 Chapter 1038: We Are A Family

    Chapter 1038: We Are A FamilySong Xin''ai didn''t respond to her question but only said, "I''ll check with the director and ask for a leave. I''ll definitely be there on your engagement."

    "Okay," replied Raelle.

    "I saw your proposal," spoke Song Xin''ai. She actually wasn''t a talkative person like Raelle but as always, she wanted to bring up a topic to talk about with her daughter just to keep her around for a moment longer.

    "I didn''t think you''d be keeping up with the inte gossip," said Raelle.

    "I don''t," replied Song Xin''ai. "But your proposal was too high profile. I''d be living under the rock if I didn''t hear a single thing about it."

    "That''s also true," was Raelle''s response because she knew how much her husband contributed to blowing this news out of proportion. And Shui Xian wasn''t alone either. Once Mu Chenyan decided to organize an engagement party, she also kept a high profile. At the moment, there were two kinds of people in the upper-ss society, the ones who got an invitation to Raelle Xiang''s engagement and the others who didn''t. And the ones who got it are definitely part of the elites. "I heard you''re still friends with your ex-husband."

    Song Xin''ai didn''t think she''d shift the topic there. She scratched her brow, "Mmm... That''s true."

    "People think you''re trying to get back together with him," mentioned Raelle. She knew how many people had this assumption. In fact, she also knew that even Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai were under the impression that their mother was trying to get back together with their father.

    Song Xin''ai chuckled softly, "They can think whatever they want. What about you? What do you think?"

    "You aren''t the kind of a person who''d go back," said Raelle certainly.

    Song Xin''ai nodded her head, "You''re right. As always. I don''t have any ns to get back together with Xiang Hulin. But I do consider him a friend. After all, in all my life, he was the only one who understood me. However, it wasn''t enough to keep our marriage."

    "How is it like?" she asked.

    "Hm?" Song Xin''ai looked at her inquisitively.

    "Being friends with your ex-husband?"

    "Oh, that is actually very interesting," said Song Xin''ai. "The best thing about him is that he isn''t temperamental. He is actually very rational. And that''s why we rarely fought even when we were married. Now, it''s even better. I don''t actually expect him to be there for me all the time or listen to me all the time. But it''s nice to have someone who asionally checks up on you and genuinely wants to know how you''ve beentely."

    And those were the kind of people Song Xin''ai genuinelycked in her life. The ones who would really want to know how she was.

    "Do you know why most exes don''t stay as friends?"

    "Because they ended on a bad note?"

    Song Xin''ai shook her head, "It''s more so because society doesn''t allow it. When you look at two exes sitting together having coffee. People start talking about how they are back together or if one of them isn''t getting over the other and is chasing the other again. This sort of stuff makes it difficult to maintain a friendship after a rtionship ends."

    "I thought most people wouldn''t wanna be friends with their exes."

    "Sure," said Song Xin''ai. "But in my case, I have the most beautiful memories of my life with Xiang Hulin. I don''t see a reason why we have to avoid each other. Especially since we have had three kids together."

    "Most would not agree with your opinion," said Raelle.

    "No one ever agreed with me anyway," replied Song Xin''ai.

    Raelle stood up to leave and said, "I should get going now. I still have to stop by somewhere. I''ll wait for you at the party."

    "I''ll be there with a gift," assured Song Xin''ai.

    "I don''tck anything."

    "A gift is a thought," said Song Xin''ai. Seeing Raelle leaving, she suddenly recalled something called her out, "Did you find what you''re looking for? Regarding Chi Xirui?"

    Raelle shook her head, "Not yet. I''ll share it with you once I do find it out."

    Song Xin''ai nodded her head as she followed her out. But before Raelle could leave, someone came to block her way. He looked rather young. In fact, Raelle could tell he looked even younger than her by a couple of years. But seeing he was a part of the research center, it showed he was quite smart.

    "You''re Professor Song''s daughter?" asked the young researcher Harry.

    Song Xin''ai frowned at him blocking Raelle but Raelle didn''t show any expression. She just nced at Song Xin''ai and didn''t deny her rtionship with her.

    "As a family, how can you not care about her at all?" asked Harry. "She has been hospitalized and no one from her family came to see her. She had been spending days and nights in theb. Shecks sleep. Doesn''t eat properly these days. She doesn''t even care about her health. But can you pay a little attention. She is your mother, after all!"

    "Harry!" Song Xin''ai''s voice took a harsh turn and when Harry looked at her, he was shocked to see Song Xin''ai looking at him with displeasure. From the moment he joined the research center, the mentor he liked the most was Song Xin''ai who had been patient with him and always kept a kind expression. But now, she looked like she was very angry. He couldn''t tell why.

    Raelle looked at Song Xin''ai then her eyes settled on Harry as she said, "Family? Sure she is my mother but that doesn''t mean we are a family." Song Xin''ai closed her eyes briefly when he heard that from Raelle but could refute it. "In this world, I''m thest person who should be asking these questions to."

    Song Xin''ai agreed with that too. Raelle didn''t deserve to be questioned. She as a mother did nothing for her, so how could anyone just question Raelle for not doing anything for her? Especially when Raelle was already here inviting her to her engagement and didn''t just threw her aside.

 Chapter 1039: [Bonus chapter] Cant Afford The Luxury

    Chapter 1039: [Bonus chapter] Can''t Afford The Luxury"Take care of your health, Professor Song," were Raelle''sst words to Song Xin''ai before she left the research center leaving both Harry and Song Xin''ai looking at her receding back.

    Song Xin''ai sighed before she turned to Harry, "I treat you very nicely that doesn''t mean you can be nosy about my personal life. You''re younger than my children and I might have taken special care of you because of that. After all, I couldn''t do it to my children. But does that really make you think you have the right to stop my daughter here and question her?"

    "Professor," Harry looked aggrieved and shocked. "I''m just worried about you."

    "I appreciate your concern," said Song Xin''ai. "But you know nothing about my life. You know nothing about my children as well. Do you really think Raelle Xiang is someone you can stop and question wherever you want?"

    Harry was a little taken aback for a moment and asked hesitantly, "That was... Raelle Xiang?"

    "Yes," answered Song Xin''ai and didn''t continue as she walked away. She was already tired from working all night and now, she was even more tired. She didn''t think someone would do this to Raelle. And yet, she actually took a moment to tell her to take care of herself.

    Song Xin''ai suddenly felt warm. Even if that was just who Raelle was, those words meant a lot to her. She was happy.

    She went straight to see the director and said, "I''d like to take a day off."

    "Oh? When did our workaholic Professor Song start taking days off?" asked the director seemingly in a good mood. "What''s going on?"

    "It''s my daughter''s engagement," answered Song Xin''ai with a smile on her face.

    The director was momentarily stunned. Not for anything else but that Song Xin''ai had a smile on her face right now which was something very rare to see. Even when he asked her to politely smile at the government officers who decide the funding of their research center, she''d always put on her nk face making him angry, and now, her smile could blind people.

    What a sight to see!

    Then he suddenly realized what she just said. "You mean you''re taking the day off for your daughter''s engagement?"

    "Yes," answered Song Xin''ai.

    "And if I''m not wrong that daughter is President Raelle?" his eyes lit up.

    "That''s correct."

    He almost jumped up from his seat in excitement, "Oh, good! Good! Why are you even asking then? It''s President Raelle''s engagement. As a mother, you should be there. There is no need to ask for a leave. You can even take a whole week off. Spend some time with family."

    Song Xin''ai didn''t think he''d be this easygoing this time around. But recalling how he was behaving around Raelle, it wasn''t hard to ept his change either.

    "I say, Professor Song, how can you not even share that your daughter is Raelle Xiang?" asked the director seemingly unhappy.

    "I didn''t think talking about my personal life was important," she replied sinctly.

    The director gave her a look and almost rolled his eyes at this block of wood that never bent!

    So infuriating it was to interact with her. If it wasn''t for her talent, she''d be long an enemy of his!

    "I know it''s not important but that''s Raelle Xiang!" said the director.

    "And so?"

    "So?" The director repeated and red at her. "Do you not know what your daughter is or you don''t care?"

    "I think it''s you who shouldn''t care about her," said Song Xin''ai. "She isn''t in our field and she has no connection with our research center as well."

    "But she has connections with the government and army!" replied the director. "In turn, she can actually be a potential investor."

    "Not happening."

    The director really rolled his eyes at her, "Then you know nothing. Just so we let her freely visit our research center, our investment has gone up for the next quarter! And you''re saying she has no connections with us?" He shook his head, "I heard she had been cooperating with the military on a project for the past months. Can you imagine what she could create with her talent if she was a part of our field?"

    "Good thing, she isn''t," said Song Xin''ai.

    "Professor Song, do you have something against our work?"

    "Nothing. I just have to remind you that this work for the reason that the same Raelle Xiang you''re talking about was kidnapped right after her birth. Why would I want her to be a part of this field?"

    The director was a fellow colleague of Song Xin''ai when that happened and he could vaguely recall the incident too. Just like everyone else, he also thought Song Xin''ai''s talent was terrifying and it led trouble to her and her family as well. It was such a shame that she lost her child.

    But everyone thought she lost that child for good.

    "President Raelle is that child?" asked the director.

    "She is," answered Song Xin''ai. "She was saved by my ex-mother-inw who offered her own life in exchange for my daughter''s."

    The director got stifled when he heard that. He also had kids, how could he not understand the pain of a parent.

    He smiled bitterly, "No wonder she didn''t call you mother."

    "It''s a luxury I can''t afford and neither do I deserve it," said Song Xin''ai. "I chose to protect the interests of this research center over my own daughter. The least you can do is to not have any designs regarding my daughter. I hate it. And I''ll get mad too. Let me not remind you of what happens when I get mad."

    The director actually shuddered at the thought of what she did thest time someone made her mad. He really couldn''t afford the consequences of it at all. This woman was crazy enough. But then again, people with such high IQ tended to be a little crazy so she was always pardoned for her atrocities.

 Chapter 1040: They Had A Kid

    Chapter 1040: They Had A KidJust likest time, Shui Xian was waiting outside in the car for her. He wanted to be with her but also wanted to give her privacy so he found the perfect way. That was ying the role of her personal chauffeur. At least, he''d get to spend time with her.

    Raelle got into the car and he asked, "Where to next?"

    Raelle showed him the address that she found through her channels, "This ce."

    Shui Xian put the address into the map and drove out of there. As he drove out of there, he looked at the heavily guarded research center. It deserved its reputation for being the biggest and the best research center in the whole country. The security was so high which showed how much importance the government put on this ce and the people inside there.

    "Everything okay?" he asked.

    "What can go wrong?"

    "I''m just wondering if anyone made things difficult for you in there?" asked Shui Xian. "You know scientists seem to have weird personalities. They don''t like seeing just anyone walking around them."

    "I''m not just someone," reminded Raelle. "I''m someone whom the director came out to greet and led inside."

    Shui Xian shook his head, "How can I forget that?"

    He didn''t actually ask how she managed to achieve that because, in his mind, his wife was already great and was capable of anything. If she could get on her knee in front of the whole world to propose to him then she was really capable of anything and everything. He should never question what she could or couldn''t do. In fact, the question was what she wanted to do or what she didn''t want to do.

    Shui Xian looked at her and asked, "Did you invite Soren?"

    "Yes," replied Raelle. "Why wouldn''t I invite him?"

    "Just asking," he replied. "What about Cui Xukun?"

    "Even if I don''t invite him, won''t he still be there as Cloe''s plus one? Or as Soren''s family?"

    Shui Xian pursed his lips as he agreed with that. Indeed.

    "But I heard Soren isn''t in the country," said Shui Xian.

    "He''ll be at the engagement," said Raelle with certainty. "He wouldn''t miss it."

    Shui Xian also nodded, "I also highly doubt that he''d be willing to miss it out. I hope he brings his kids. I never got to see his twins. And he had always been talking about them. He never misses out on a chance to talk about them. Just thest time we met, he was telling me how his daughter won the prize for the best costume on the costume day in school because she was dressed like a fairy and she looked like a real fairy. I could almost see stars in his eyes. Also, his son won the race on the sports day as well. He looked so damn proud."

    "He really told you all that?" asked Raelle. "Howe he never spoke about his twins with me?"

    "Maybe because he you don''t like talking about such topics," said Shui Xian as he shrugged.

    "Quite possible," said Raelle. "Cloe met the twins and she really likes them. She sent me the pictures of how she dressed them up in like 100 dresses just because everything looked cute on them. I couldn''t understand the concept."

    "Oh, it''s the same concept that you apply to me," replied Shui Xian. "Don''t you drag me to shopping just because you like to see me dressing up? Cloe''s mindset is exactly the same."

    "Is that so?" asked Raelle. "I highly doubt that."

    "Why?"

    "Because..."

    "Don''t!" Shui Xian suddenly stopped her from continuing. Even though he was the one who asked the question, now, he wanted to stop her from saying anything because it suddenly struck him that he was very clear about her answer already. It was the same old answer. She didn''t like him dressing up, she liked seeing him undress better. And if we thought from this point of view then clearly, Cloe''s mindset was definitely different than Raelle''s.

    "Hubby, you even understood without me saying anything?" she asked.

    "I did," he said and sighed. "It momentarily slipped my mind but now, I''m back on track. I know where you wanted to go with that."

    "It''s good that you know," she said.

    For a moment, Shui Xian was actually a bit envious when he was talking about how Soren bragged about his twins. He didn''t know whether Raelle was sensitive enough to figure out the change in his mood or not but she actually shifted the direction of the conversation and made himugh. Now, he was wondering if he really needed a kid in his life with his wife around.

    She could already get too much for him.

    And clearly, there was no space between them for anyone else. He didn''t know if a kid would feel left out between them.

    "We are here," Shui Xian informed her as they entered the residential area. He parked outside the apartment building and looked at Raelle who was looking around at the area.

    "Do you think it''s a good ce to live with a kid?" she asked seriously.

    Shui Xian looked back at her and replied, "It seems very safe. There is also a y area for kids over there." She followed his finger and looked at the y area. "In the evening, there''d be plenty of kids whoe out to y there. It''s a good ce to find y mates too."

    "But Justin doesn''t like to interact with others,"mented Raelle.

    Shui Xian was left looking at her and sighed once again, "Baby, just go and give that invitation card."

    "Oh." With that she alighted from the car and entered the apartment building.

    Shui Xian looked at her back and shook his head. He was wondering if there would be a ce for a kid in their life and now, he was wondering if there''d be a ce for him if they had a kid?

 Chapter 1041: Bald Spot

    Chapter 1041: Bald SpotRaelle rang the bell and nanny Mi opened the door. When she looked at Raelle, she was surprised but still weed her inside, "Miss Raelle, pleasee inside."

    "Is Tang Hebe home?" asked Raelle.

    "Yes, yes. Miss is inside," replied nanny Mi and led Raelle inside the apartment.

    "Nanny, who is it?" came Tang Hebe''s voice from inside.

    "Miss it''s Miss Raelle," replied the nanny.

    Tang Hebe was taken aback by that answer. She didn''t expect this at all. She looked up from the magazine and then saw Raelle standing there. So, it was really Raelle. What a surprise.

    She just didn''t know whether it was a pleasant surprise or not, for now.

    "Raelle," she called out. "What a pleasant surprise!"

    "Is it?" asked Raelle in return as she walked over to her side and sat down on the armchair. "Are you sure it''s a pleasant surprise?"

    Tang Hebe took a deep breath and already started bracing herself to face the burnt of Raelle''s attacks. Oh, how she was already so used to it that she subconsciously wanted to mentally prepare herself to not defend but to bear. Because defending would be pointless against Raelle''s attacks and would only make things difficult for herself.

    "How are you, Raelle?" asked Tang Hebe. "How is your recovery? Is everything okay?"

    "I''m fine," replied Raelle. "What about you? How are you recovering? I see that your bandage is removed. At least, it doesn''t look like your head is wrapped up like a mummy. But now, I can see you''ve lost hair. Sorry for your loss!"

    Tang Hebe stared at Raelle for a long minute in silence before she chuckled, "How did you know I cried for an hour when I saw my hair?" She really thought Raelle knew about it why else would she be offering her condolences? And on a serious note, Tang Hebe needed these condolences for her loss of beautiful hair.

    "You look like someone who deeply cares about how she looks," answered Raelle.

    "Just say, I look vain," said Tang Hebe.

    "It''s a very strong word," said Raelle. "But since you''re the one agreeing, then okay, I''ll also you''re quite vain."

    "Thank you for thepliment."

    "You''re wee!"

    Nanny Mi was first baffled to hear the exchange of words between them and then she covered her mouth to hide her smile. She could see how light Tang Hebe looked after just a few words with Raelle. It was strange. Even if Raelle made her ufortable with her words, she also made her feel light andfortable too.

    Such a bizarre creation of heaven was this Raelle Xiang.

    "What would you like to drink, Miss Raelle?"

    "Water would be fine," replied Raelle to nanny Mi.

    "That''s too simple. How about some fine Longjing tea?"

    "I don''t mind that either," said Raelle. "In fact, I don''t mind anything as long as it''s not poison. You see, I''d still like to live a long life with my husband. So, a big no to poison. Anything else is fine."

    Tang Hebe''s lips twitched when he heard that and even nanny Mi was a bit taken aback. She thought Raelle was joking but then she thought Raelle looked too serious for that. But suddenly, Raelle subverted her views with herment.

    "That was a joke," said Raelle casually. "You can bring Longjing tea."

    "Oh, okay," nanny Mi ran away from there.

    Tang Hebe looked at Raelle and said, "You have a dark humor."

    "I''m a dark person too," argued Raelle.

    "I doubt that," was what Tang Hebe said. She genuinely didn''t think Raelle was a dark person. Not even close. Maybe she wasn''t like the light that her best friend Hyson reflected but she wasn''t really darkness either. A person like Raelle who lived in reality with brutal honesty couldn''t be a dark person. That''d just make her a real person and nothing else.

    "On a serious note, how are you really doing?" asked Raelle once again.

    "Thank you for asking. I''m doing better now. Why else would I get discharged? Although my memory hasn''t fullye back yet, it doesn''t hinder me from living a normal life so who cares about what I forgot?" Tang Hebe shrugged quite casually. She looked to be in a rather good mood than she was in the hospital.

    Raelle was wondering if it was her illusion or something. Becausetely, she noticed how everyone whom she saw as a gloomy person was suddenly acting like sunshine. Take Zhai Yanjun, Xiang Wai, or even Tang Hebe now. These were people who took things too hard in life and she could tell that when she met them for the first time.

    But now, there was a positivity around them that couldn''t be ignored.

    Her husband, Shui Xian also took things too hard when she first met him but he also slowly got better. But she''d shamelessly take the credit for that. As for the others, she had to think some more to figure out what was changing them.

    "The surgery wound is recovering very well. It''ll leave a scar but it''s on my scalp. It doesn''t really matter. It''ll be covered with the hair."

    "But you don''t have hair," reminded Raelle making Tang Hebe re at her.

    "Can you stop reminding me of that?"

    "I''m just being honest."

    "I know you''re honest. Try lying just to make me feel happy."

    "Lies are like slow poisons."

    "Stop!" Tang Hebe didn''t want her to continue from there. Not at all. "You can''t lie, right?"

    Raelle nodded her head honestly.

    "Then just ignore my bald spot!" said Tang Hebe. "Can you do that or not?"

    "I can try," said Raelle. "I won''t be giving promises though."

    Tang Hebe heaved a sigh of relief. It was better than nothing, right? She''d just take it. She should learn to be happy with her lot. Oh, no. She had been tryingtely to be just happy with her lot and it made things so much happier and simpler in life.

 Chapter 1042: [Bonus chapter] Small Gardener

    Chapter 1042: [Bonus chapter] Small Gardener"How about you just shave off all the hair?" suggested Raelle. "That''s clearly not just a bald spot. It''s almost like half the head is bald."

    "And you think going bald will help?"

    "Yes," replied Raelle.

    "I don''t look ugly enough?" asked Tang Hebe. "You want me to go bald now?"

    "At least, it''ll look symmetrical," said Raelle. "Right now, it looks weird. So not aesthetically pleasing."

    "Is it just I or you''re trying to get on my nerve?"

    "It''s just you," replied Raelle.

    "Okay," said Tang Hebe.

    "I can help you shave off the rest of the hair," suggested Raelle.

    "You? Have you ever done this before?" asked Tang Hebe. "No, wait. When did I even agree?"

    "You just did," said Raelle. "And although I''ve never done it before. You can have faith in me. I''m a fast learner. I''m suddenly interested in this."

    Tang Hebe covered her head and looked at her with a guarded expression, "No moving!"

    "Oh."

    Tang Hebe patted her chest when she saw that Raelle had stopped.

 Chapter 1043: Little Mans Plants

    Chapter 1043: Little Man''s nts"Hey, little man!"

    Justin''s hand that held a tiny shovel stopped moving when he heard that voice. He didn''t even hear when someone came to stand behind him. But that familiar voice made him eager and instantly tilted his head. As he looked at Raelle, his eye lit up like stars.

    He stood up and walked up to her but stopped when he saw that he was wearing his gardening gloves and still holding the shovel. He put it down and took off his gloves before saying, "One moment, please!"

    Then he ran with his small legs toward the bathroom. He hurriedly cleaned his hands and even washed his face which was sweating from working out in the garden in this heat. Only after he felt that he was clean enough and looked like an adorable baby again, he ran out and stand before Raelle looking up at her.

    He thought about it before holding the hem of her sundress as if greeting her this way. After all, he couldn''t handshake with her so, he chose this way.

    Raelle looked at his eyes that kept looking at her and crouched down toe to his eye level so that he didn''t have to look up at her. His neck would get tired from looking up like that.

    "Hi!" said Justin.

    Raelle replied, "Hi!"

    "You came to see me?" he asked.

    Raelle nodded her head, "Didn''t I say I''de to see you? I not only came to see you but am also here to invite you."

    "Invite me?" asked Justin as he blinked at her innocently.

    "Hmm," she hummed. She actually pulled out a card and gave it to him. This card was different from all the other invitation cards. This one was smaller and would fit right into Justin''s small hands. It could be seen that this one was specially made for him. Since her purpose was to invite Justin in the first ce, she took this matter very seriously and got this invitation card designed.

    Justin took the card and opened it to read it seriously. After reading it attentively, he gave her an adorable smile, "You''re getting engaged?"

    Raelle nodded again.

    "But aren''t you already married?"

    Raelle touched her chin as she thought about how many people have brought up this question already. It was really a question that wasn''t letting her escape. Why was everyone thinking in the same direction? Even a little kid was now thinking the same thing.

    "I''m getting engaged to my husband," she told him honestly.

    Justin felt like whatever he had learned until now wasn''t enough. Because he seriously was lost regarding the situation that was presented before him. But he didn''t want to show her that he didn''t understand. After all, even if he was little, he also had some pride, no? Wouldn''t be embarrassing if he asked what she meant by that and why he couldn''t understand it?

    No matter how he tried to hide it though, he was still just a little over five. How could he manage his expressions and thoughts? He wasn''t exactly like Raelle who was born with a nk face. His little thoughts could still be seen with how his eyes were moving around.

    Raelle waited for him to question and didn''t take the initiative to answer him before he could ask. She wanted him to know that it wasn''t embarrassing to not know something. It was more embarrassing to not ask and stay clueless about your doubts.

    "You don''t have something to ask me?" asked Raelle to Justin.

    Justin put his hands together and yed with his fingers as he contemted this serious problem he was facing right now. What to do? Should he ask? Seeing her patience, he suddenly became rxed and decided to ask, "How can you get engaged to your husband?"

    Raelle looked like she was proud of him and even lifted her hand to touch his head. In the end, it was only the tip of her index finger that touched the space between his brows as she said, "It took you so long to ask? If you won''t ask how would you know?"

    Justin lowered his head as he epted his mistake, "I''m sorry."

    Raelle didn''t say anything about this and exined to him instead, "It''s like this. When we got married, we only got the marriage certificate. There was no ceremony at all. So, now we are doing things in order. First, we''ll have engagement and then we''ll hold a wedding ceremony. Let''s say we''re doing everything in reverse."

    "That can also be done?" he asked curiously.

    "It''s your life," she said. "Anything is possible as long as you will for it."

    He nodded his head in understanding. "I''ll keep that in mind." He kept looking at Raelle and then tugged at her sleeve as he said, "Would you like to meet my nts?"

    Raelle agreed, "Sure. Why not?"

    Justin happily brought her to his small sanctuary. It was considered his safe space. There was even a small camping tent set up. And Raelle could see that there were books inside. It seemed, he loved to spend time with his nts so much that he''d spend hours there and even brought all the things he liked to this ce.

    One by one, he introduced her to all his nts. When he talked about his nts, he seemed very excited.

    When he came to thest pot, his expression changed. He tsked to himself and crouched down beside the withering flowering nt as he said, "This one isn''t willing to grow. I took care of it for so long but still is dying. I don''t know what I did wrong. I did everything that the book said."

    Raelle looked at the withering nt as well and said, "Sorry, I might not be of much help with this." She definitely couldn''t help with this. She didn''t know how to raise nts or take care of them. Neither did she know about pets. In fact, she couldn''t even take proper care of humans. She never even took care of her own self.

    She wasn''t that omnipotent yet.

    Although she could recognize the species of flowers and nts. But how to grow and groom them was a whole different matter. This was meticulous work which wasn''t Raelle''s forte.

    Justin suddenly thought about something and hesitated before asking, "Your elder brother might know."

    "Hm?"

    "He said he also keeps a lot of nts," said Justin.

    Raelle looked at him for a minute in silence before she took out her phone. And although Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai''s contact numbers hadn''t been saved in her personal phone, they weremitted in her memory after one nce. So, she easily dialed Xiang Weimin''s number and waited for him to pick up the call.

    It didn''t take three seconds before Xiang Weimin picked up the call in surprise, "Raelle? Is that you? Or someone stole your phone? Don''t tell me you''re being held at gunpoint."

    "And who dares to hold me at gunpoint?" asked Raelle in return when she heard his stupid questions.

    Xiang Weimin seemed to have exhaled a breath of relief as he said, "Oh, it''s really you. Good. It''s fine since you''re safe. So, what''s up? How did you think of me?"

    "I need your help with something?"

    "Tell me!"

    "Have you raised the agapanthus flowers? Also known as Lily of the Nile?"

    "Of course," replied Xiang Weimin. "That''s one of the easiest nts to raise. Only needs minimum care and yet gives you beautiful blue globes."

    Raelle went silent when she heard that and felt it was fortunate that Xiang Weimin said it to her only. If he had said it to Justin, wouldn''t it break a fragile heart of a kid? You can''t be careless with a kid''s feelings. She had read about it in detail!

    With a cough, she said, "Justin''s nt is withering even after meticulous care. How about you give him some suggestions?"

    Xiang Weimin was stunned to hear it and took a moment to process what his sister just said. And then he understood everything and said, "Give him the phone. I''ll talk to him."

    "Okay," said Raelle and gave her phone to Justin saying, "You can ask him anything."

    Justin nodded his head and took the phone. Raelle stepped aside to give them ''privacy''! Every kid needed that too, after all.

    While Justin was talking to Xiang Weimin, Raelle looked at his small figure listening attentively and speaking animatedly as he exined what and how he took care of his nt. It was actually ironic how such a small kid was able to raise orchids which were difficult to grow but actually couldn''t take care of agapanthus.

    But then again, who said simple things were simple for everyone and difficult things were difficult for everyone? There were always odd balls around you who couldn''t do simplest tasks but were masters at solving the difficult ones.

    She was one example of them.

    Besides, she was even worse than a kid. Even cactus might end up dying in her care.

    "What are you doing here?" asked Tang Hebe as she saw Raelle standing there just looking at Justin. "And who is Justin talking to?"

    "He is getting expert''s advice," replied Raelle. "Do not disturb."

    "Oh, okay." Tang Hebe didn''t understand and chose to just ignore it. Thinking won''t help. She couldn''t understand their world anyway.

 Chapter 1044: Want To Fly

    Chapter 1044: Want To FlyWhile Justin was still on the phone with Xiang Weimin, Raelle waited patiently. From her peripheral vision, she could see that Tang Hebe had something to say but she was hesitating. Who knew why she was hesitating though? It could be because it was a difficult topic to bring up or it could entirely be because she was a little traumatic because of her experience with Raelle.

    Raelle would like to believe it was the second option.

    "Just say it already," said Raelle, and Tang Hebe was startled badly by how suddenly Raelle spoke out.

    "Can you please give a warning before speaking? I have a weak heart."

    "I thought your head was injured,"mented Raelle. But then she denied herself, "Oh, I almost forgot. You''re born a weak person. How else would you have been schemed against so easily by your own family? If you weren''t a weak person, you wouldn''t have run either."

    "Is your name ''reminder''?" asked Tang Hebe. "Why do you keep reminding me of everything I did wrong in life?"

    "That''s a wrong question," said Raelle. "You should be asking if you have ever done anything right in life. And the answer is yes. You adopted Justin. For that good deed alone, I''m willing to say you''re not hopeless indeed."

    "Oh, thank you so much! All I ever wanted was recognition from Raelle Xiang. Now, that I have it, I can''t even express my feelings."

    "You''ve subconsciously spoken the truth," said Raelle, and Tang Hebe stiffened. "Indeed, you always wanted recognition. Either it was from Qian Yin or me. People told me I made my life difficult by working endlessly. But from the moment I met you, I realized that the person who had been making her life difficult had been you. Was it fun chasing after the shadow of a person who didn''t even know you? It''s almost like those fans in the entertainment industry who ceaselessly and desperately chase their idols."

    "Every time I sit with you, it goes two ways," started Tang Hebe. "Either I''m getting bashed by your hurtful words or I''m getting lectured. I don''t know how to feel about this."

    "I''ll try to control myself," said Raelle which Tang Hebe definitely didn''t expect at all. "I''ll try to keep my words less hurtful and try to avoid lectures as well."

    "I..." Tang Hebe was suddenly at a loss and avoided her eyes as she muttered, "Who said I want you to stop?"

    In fact, no matter how hurtful Raelle had been, Tang Hebe epted it. She wasn''t her old self so she was willing to be open-minded about everything and be a little more generous. Especially with Raelle. She didn''t even mind getting these lectures. Or else she would have blown her top if the same thing happened when she was younger. Now, she could actually understand Raelle''s words and always analyzed every word Raelle said carefully.

    Lately, she had nothing else to do anyway so she was spending time reying Raelle''s words over and over in her mind.

    At this point, even Tang Hebe would say that she was obsessed with the person named Raelle Xiang. Whether it was years ago or now, she was obsessed for different reasons of course.

    "What''s on your mind?" asked Raelle.

    "I''m wondering if you still don''t know how you know Chi Xirui."

    "I don''t," answered Raelle. "But I''m looking into her. It isn''t looking very optimistic for now but it''s going somewhere."

    Tang Hebe nodded her head, "Do you think I forgot something rted to her as well?"

    "It''s quite possible," said Raelle seriously. "You said it yourself that you still have nk spots in your memory but then again, not everyone can remember every detail of life. So, there is no need to be so serious about this."

    "Sorry, I can''t help you much."

    "It doesn''t matter," replied Raelle, and went silent when she saw Justining back with her phone in his hands. He gave it back to her with his eyes brimming with eagerness. "Are you done?" Justin nodded his head to answer. "Then did you get your answer?" Justin nodded once again. "Are you satisfied with the answer?"

    He nodded his small head once more.

    "Aiyo, my baby is looking very happy,"mented Tang Hebe. "What happened? Won''t you share it with me?"

    Justin ran to his mother and Tang Hebe picked up his small body as she ced him on her knees. "Mom, we''ll be going to the engagement party, right?"

    "Of course," answered Tang Hebe.

    Justin smiled happily to hear that, "Uncle said, he''ll show me his garden."

    Tang Hebe rubbed his head and smiled happily at her son. She knew whom her son was talking about. She actually hadn''t met Xiang Weimin but she heard a lot about him. Obviously, it wasn''t from Raelle Xiang. It was her own son who wouldn''t stop talking about this uncle whom he met at the hospital and liked a lot.

    Although she didn''t know how Xiang Weimin managed to tear down the walls around her son to approach him, she was still happy. After all, there were no male figures in Justin''s life. He only had her and the nanny around him all the time. She really thought it affected his growth but she couldn''t do anything about it either.

    "Why wait for so long?" asked Raelle.

    "Hm?" Both Tang Hebe and Justin looked at her.

    "I can bring you to him right now," added Raelle. "After all, the engagement party won''t be held at home. So, you won''t be able to see his garden. But if youe home, you''ll be able to see his cherished nts. Do you wanna go with me?"

    Justin''s eyes sparkled and even Tang Hebe could feel his eagerness. She didn''t know what to do in this situation but when her son looked at her hopefully as if asking for her permission, she couldn''t say no either. She gritted her teeth and said, "Okay, you can go if you want to."

    Justin giggled like a real kid his age and it stunned Tang Hebe for a moment and she only snapped back to reality when Justin kissed her cheek and jumped down from her knees.

    Tang Hebe was looked at her son''s back as he ran to his room to get dressed. Raelle took this moment to say, "Kids grow up too fast and when their wings are able to bear their weight, they want to fly."

    Tang Hebe turned to nce at Raelle who pretended like she wasn''t the one who just said that at all.

 Chapter 1045: [Bonus chapter] I Was There

    Chapter 1045: [Bonus chapter] I Was ThereWhen Shui Xian saw Raelleing back with an extra person, he was taken aback. He watched Raelle opening the door for Justin and the little one was smart enough to get in and fasten his seatbelt obediently. Then Raelle took her own seat and saw her husband looking at her.

    "What''s up?" asked Raelle.

    "Did you kidnap him?" asked Shui Xian very seriously.

    "I''m aw-abiding citizen," replied Raelle.

    But those words meant something else in Shui Xian''s head. "You mean you would have kidnapped him if you weren''t so principled?"

    "Quite possible," was Raelle''s answer which made him sigh. He looked back at Justin and saw the little one focused on ying with his Rubik''s cube. There was no doubt that Justin was adorable and very obedient. He didn''t make a fuss or anything that would give anyone a good impression of such a cutie pie.

    "So, where are we going?" asked Shui Xian because the original n was to go out on lunch after this but now that Justin was around, the n had to change. No, it didn''t mean Shui Xian wasn''t willing to bring Justin to lunch with them, but knowing his wife, he was certain that she had other ns when she decided to let Justin tag along with them.

    And sure enough, Raelle replied, "Let''s go back home. This little man wants to meet Xiang Weimin."

    "Oh," that was all Shui Xian, and didn''t ask anything else as he started the car.

    On their ride, Shui Xian drove in silence while Justin asionally brought up topics to ask Raelle and she''d answer everything precisely. Shui Xian didn''t disturb their exchange of knowledge. In fact, just listening to their voices, he felt a little warmth in his heart.

    When they arrived at the Xiang Manor, it was already close to lunchtime. Raelle led Justin inside and brought him to the living room. She told him to sit there and asked the maids to serve him well. The maids didn''t dare disobey and hurriedly got to work bringing all the snacks in the house to Justin.

    "Wait here, I''ll see where that brother of mine is," said Raelle as she left the living room.

    "I''m sorry, Eldest Master! I''m really sorry!"

    Raelle was looking for Xiang Weimin when she heard that voice and followed it. She saw a maid apologizing to Xiang Weimin. The maid was sincerely apologizing to Xiang Weimin.

    "What happened?" came Raelle''s voice which caught the other two''s attention.

    The maid almost shivered when she saw Raelle and only now felt the real fear. "I didn''t do it intentionally," said the maid.

    "And what did you do?" asked Raelle.

    "I was asking her who this file belonged to but I appeared suddenly and she got scared. She dropped the vase," exined Xiang Weimin as he looked down at the mess on the floor.

    Raelle looked at the shattered vase and looked up at the maid.

    The maid bowed before her, "I know it''s an antique. I was being very careful with it but Eldest Master appeared without a sound and suddenly spoke up. I was caught off guard."

    "Clean it," instructed Raelle. "After that, go and show these fragments to Yanyan or Opa. If they tell you to send it to repair it, do that. If they tell you to throw it, just throw it then."

    The maid gave Raelle aplicated look. Just from one look, she knew that Raelle actually wanted her to throw this shattered vase away. But considering how all these antiques were actually collected by Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan, she didn''t make any decision regarding this since she believed it wasn''t her ce to do so.

    Even the maid had no heart to throw the vase away. It was just a little broken. But did she even realize how expensive it was?

    "Yes, Missy!" said the maid and immediately picked up the vase and its pieces that broke before running off.

    Xiang Weimin sighed at this and crouched down to collect the file that fell out of his hand trying to save the vase. Some words caught his eyes and he frowned before he stood back up.

    "That''s mine, I believe," said Raelle as she pointed at the file in his hands. She seemed to have left this here the other day and didn''t get the chance to take it back either.

    "Oh," Xiang Weimin gave her the file. After a moment, he asked, "Can I ask you something?"

    "What is it?" asked Raelle.

    Xiang Weimin pointed at the file in her hands and questioned, "What is this about?"

    "It''s personal," replied Raelle. "When did you be so nosy, Lieutenant?"

    "I''m just asking," said Xiang Weimin. "While collecting the documents, I saw something. I didn''t mean to. It was idental. But it seems to be a report on the flood tragedy of the Kan region, am I right?"

    Raelle looked at him and then nodded her head, "You can say that."

    "Why are you looking into that?" asked Xiang Weimin in confusion. "You weren''t even here when it happened."

    "I wasn''t," replied Raelle. "But someone else was. I''m just trying to look for that person."

    "That person was there?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    Raelle nodded her head, "That''s what I''ve heard."

    "Then why don''t you ask me?" Raelle looked at him as he went on, "I was there."

    "What?" asked Raelle.

    "I was there when the flood came," replied Xiang Weimin. "I was part of the rescue team because my squadron was closer to that region at that time. So, we indeed helped with the rescue."

    Raelle silently stared at him for a long while before asking to confirm, "You were there 6 years ago when the flood came?"

    "Yes, that''s what I said," answered Xiang Weimin. "If you''re looking into that matter, I can really help you. I remember everything that happened back then." He took a pause and asked, "Who are you looking for exactly?"

 Chapter 1046: Little Munchkin

    Chapter 1046: Little MunchkinThis time around, Raelle simply took out the one photo she got of Chi Xirui and showed it to Xiang Weimin as she asked, "See this girl?" Xiang Weimin took the photo and looked at the girl standing at the far right in a white coat. "Do you know her? She was one of the volunteer doctors in that ce?"

    Xiang Weimin stared at the photo for a minute in silence but when he broke the silence, he looked away saying, "No. I don''t."

    Raelle just looked at his face without saying anything but that one intense look of hers was too heavy. Xiang Weimin avoided her eyes and coughed awkwardly.

    "If you don''t wanna say it, don''t say it," said Raelle. "I won''t force you. Why resort to lying?"

    Xiang Weimin sighed to himself and faced Raelle, "Why are you looking for her?"

    "That''s my business," replied Raelle. "Oh, if I might add, her name is Chi Xirui. Clearly, you said you don''t know anyone of that name thest time we spoke about it."

    Xiang Weimin frowned, "Her name is Chi Xirui?"

    "You don''t even know the name?" asked Raelle. "Now, I''m seriously wondering if you knew her at all."

    "I also thought I knew her, but clearly, I was wrong," responded Xiang Weimin.

    "I won''t ask you what rtionship you had with her," started Raelle. "But you can tell me what name she told you, right?"

    Xiang Weimin took a moment before telling her, "She said her name was Genevieve D''Amico." He looked at Raelle and added, "But when I looked through the volunteering team participants, her name wasn''t there. So, she definitely lied about that."

    "Or maybe she didn''t," said Raelle. She thought back to how Tang Hebe told her that Chi Xirui first introduced herself as Jenny to her. And Genevieve''s nickname is often Jenny. "I think you''re the only one who got the real name, brother."

    Xiang Weimin froze.

    Not because of whatever she said. It was only for that onest ''brother''. Yup. That made him freeze and lose hisposure so easily.

    "Thanks for the help."

    Xiang Weimin dumbly shook his head, "It''s alright."

    "Justin is here to see you," told Raelle. "He is in the living room."

    "Really?" Xiang Weimin''s expression changed and he smiled at her. "I''ll see him."

    "Why does he look so happy?" questioned Raelle to no one in particr as she watched Xiang Weimin running off to see Justin.

    On the other side, in the living room, Justin was obediently sitting down and munched on the salty pastry in his hand. His small hands held the pastry and the tiny teeth were nibbling on the tasty snack.

    "Wai, I told you to go and see the designer," came Mu Chenyan''s voice. "You need to try on the gowns and see which one you like."

    "Aunt, I forgot," replied Xiang Wai as she lowered her head.

    "It''s all that Yanjun''s fault," said Mu Chenyan.

    Xiang Wai gaped at her aunt, "How is it his fault now?"

    "He is your boyfriend. Isn''t he always on your mind?" asked Mu Chenyan seriously.

    "He is," replied Xiang Wai with a sweet smile, looking like a young girl in love.

    Mu Chenyan rolled her eyes at that expression as she went on, "Have you ever forgotten him for a moment?"

    "How is that possible?"

    "Exactly, my point! Since he is taking so much space in your mind, how will you remember anything else?" retorted Mu Chenyan leaving Xiang Wai with no response. She did feel something was wrong with this logic but the way her aunt spoke really made her doubt it.

    Maybe her aunt was right.

    "I''ll go over today," said Xiang Wai as she followed Mu Chenyan to the living room.

    "I don''t believe people in love," replied Mu Chenyan.

    Xiang Wai shut up when she heard that.

    Mu Chenyan dropped down on the couch and sighed heavily. She was tired after running around so much. "Go and ask someone when is lunch being served. I''m hungry. I have an appointment with the event nner after that."

    "Again?"

    "Yes," replied Mu Chenyan. She suddenly looked up and her eyes met with that pair of nk eyes staring back at her. Mu Chenyan was stunned and blinked. Then she rubbed her eyes and pointed at that small figure who was frozen with the pastry in his mouth right now. He looked like a little munchkin. So adorable. "Wai, do you see that doll over there or I''m tripping?"

    Xiang Wai looked up and found Justin. She was slightly surprised but she didn''t think much about it as she replied to her aunt. "There is no doll there, aunt."

    "What?" Mu Chenyan rubbed her eyes again and saw that little doll blinking back at her. "Am I so tired? How is that possible?" She shook her head, "Am I so old now that I''m hallucinating? No way!"

    Xiang Wai almost rolled her eyes at her aunt as she said, "There isn''t a doll. But there is a small human there."

    Mu Chenyan looked up at Xiang Wai who went over to Justin''s side and waved at him, "Hi, little buddy! Do you remember me?"

    Justin nodded his head, "I remember."

    Xiang Wai smiled in response, "I remember you too. Howe you''re here? Did youe alone?"

    "Pretty sister brought me over," answered Justin.

    "Oh, Raelle did?" Xiang Wai raised her brow in surprise.

    Mu Chenyan also stood up and walked over there. She looked at Justin deeply and just kept looking and looking in silence.

    "Aunt, stop staring. That''s rude. You''re gonna make our little guest ufortable with your staring."

    Mu Chenyan snapped out of it and stared at Xiang Wai, "I was just about to catch on why he looked familiar." She took a moment and then crouched down before Justin as she looked at Justin again. "Wai, who is he?"

    "Why don''t you ask him?" suggested Xiang Wai.

    Mu Chenyan then asked Justin, "How about an introduction? I''m Mu Chenyan. And you are?"

    "Justin," replied the little guy with his spirited eyes looking back at her curiously.

 Chapter 1047 [Bonus chapter] Im Old Now

    Chapter 1047 [Bonus chapter] I''m Old Now

    "Hi, little Justin," greeted Mu Chenyan. "You''re very handsome, Justin. Do you know that?"

    Justin smiled slightly at that and nodded, "Pretty sister said that too."

    "Oh?" Mu Chenyan raised her brows when she saw his little smile. "And who is this pretty sister?"

    "He is talking about Raelle," replied Xiang Wai.

    "I didn''t ask you," said Mu Chenyan. "I asked you to go and find out about lunch arrangements. I''m hungry. And we have a special little guest as well. How can we mistreat him?" Then she looked at Justin and asked, "What do you like to eat Justin?"

    "I don''t like green beans but apart from that, I like everything," answered Justin clearly. He usually didn''t talk this much. But feeling Mu Chenyan''s genuine kindness, he feltfortable enough to talk about it with her. He could see her gentleness radiating from her eyes.

    "Oh, we have another one who doesn''t like green beans," said Mu Chenyan with a smile. "So, Justin can I pinch your chubby cheeks? Truthfully, I wanna take a bite but we are not that familiar yet so, I''ll just make do with pinching these cheeks."

    While Justin turned red, Xiang Wai couldn''t help saying, "Aunt, you''re ying hooligan again! How can you even tease a little kid? Shame on you!"

    "You''re still here?"

    "I was just going," saying that she really ran away this time.

    Mu Chenyan chuckled at Justin''s reaction before she tapped his small nose saying, "It''s okay. I was really teasing you. You''re so adorable."

    "Chenyan, did you see my reading sses?"

    "It''s in your side table''s first drawer," answered Mu Chenyan to Grandfather Xiang.

    "It''s not there," replied Grandfather Xiang.

    "It is there," she said again.

    "I''m telling you it''s not there. I looked through it."

    "And I''m saying that it''s there. I ced it there myself," was Mu Chenyan''s response.

    "You think I''m lying?" asked Grandfather Xiang as his wheelchair finally wheeled into the living room.

    "And you think I''m lying?" responded Mu Chenyan as she turned her head to look at him.

    "I''m not saying that. But I''m just saying you could have remembered it wrongly," said Grandfather Xiang seriously.

    Mu Chenyan stood up and said, "I''m gonna go and find it myself. And if I found it there, Elder Xiang, you better watch it." She stood up to leave but stopped to say, "Go and apany that little friend of Elle. Don''t slight him."

    Grandfather Xiang looked over at Raelle''s little friend and his eyes widened when he saw Justin. He was stunned for a moment before he Grandfather Xiang''s smile deepened when he heard that milky sweet 23:48

    voice. "How did you meet my granddaughter?" asked Grandfather wheeled over to his side.

    With an expression that he thought seemed gentle and kind, Grandfather Xiang greeted Justin, "Hi, I''m Raelle''s grandfather."

    Justin blinked at him before he nodded, "I''m Justin."

    Grandfather Xiang''s smile deepened when he heard that milky sweet voice. "How did you meet my granddaughter?" asked Grandfather Xiang. He was still processing the fact that this little human was actually Raelle''s friend. What a surprise!

    Justin braced himself and slowly but concisely reiterated the story of his meeting with Raelle and how much he liked her and how awesome she was etc etc. And of course, this much was enough to make Grandfather Xiang happy. Anyone who liked his Raelle was dear to him too.

    Even before Mu Chenyan appeared, her voice came, "Elder Xiang, look! I found your reading sses right there!" Soon, she appeared herself looking livid as she presented the sses to him. "What is it? Huh? Didn''t I say it was right there?"

    Grandfather Xiang coughed, "It wasn''t there when I looked for it."

    "Then howe it was there when I looked for it?"

    "Who knows?" replied Grandfather Xiang. "Maybe you found it somewhere else and are now saying it was right there."

    "You!" Mu Chenyan gaped at him in disbelief and sighed. "How can you behave like this? You''re already so old. Does it suit you now?" She pointed at Justin who was sitting obediently and said, "Look at him. Even a kid is more sensible than you."

    "I know. I know. I''m so old now. Of course, you don''t like me anymore."

    Mu Chenyan could not believe that this old man who was acting like an unreasonable kid right now was actually the feared Elder Xiang. Did he have no shame? How could he even act like this?

    Grandfather Xiang looked at Justin and said, "See? She is so naggy. It''s tiring."

    "Oh, my Gawd!" was Mu Chenyan''s reaction. "Are you actuallyining about me to a kid?"

    "Be nice. Don''t scare our little guest here."

    Actually, Justin was far from scared. He grew up with his mother and the nanny. He had no aunts. No uncles. No grandparents. So, it was the first time he saw such a lively scene of a family. Even if it were just two people bickering, he was listening and watching everything attentively. And he was quite amused too.

    He had heard about both grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan from Raelle. After all, if Raelle started talking about her family, she''d first mention these two people. So, Justin really wanted to meet these two people. Who knew he''d meet them here like this and see this scene?

    *Ahem! Ahem!*

    Both Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan looked over and found Xiang Weimin standing there looking at them along with Raelle who stood behind him. Xiang Weimin came first and had seen quite the scene before him but Raelle just came so she didn''t know the whole scene.

    "Why are you just standing here?" asked Raelle. "It''s not good to make your guests wait."

    Xiang Weimin nodded and entered the room.

    Meanwhile, both Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan stopped talking once they saw Xiang Weimin. Not because they were embarrassed at all. They both shared the same look as they stared at Xiang Weimin''s face and then looked over at Justin. And finally, they looked at each other with the same emotions of surprise.

 Chapter 1048: Too Much For Heart

    Chapter 1048: Too Much For HeartXiang Weimin''s consistently stoic face melted when he looked at Justin and rushed to his side. "What a pleasant surprise, little bud! Why didn''t you tell me you wereing?"

    "It wouldn''t be a surprise then," replied Justin with his toothy grin.

    Xiang Weimin poked his chubby cheek saying, "Aiyo, and whose idea was it?"

    "Pretty sister said I cane over with her and I can see your garden," said Justin.

    "Pretty sister can never go wrong," said Xiang Weimin with his biased self taking the side of Raelle.

    "Then can I see?" asked Justin as he blinked at Xiang Weimin eagerly.

    "Yes, but not now," replied Xiang Weimin as he rubbed Justin''s small head and Justin even let him do it.

    Actually, no one knew that Xiang Weimin had met Justin even after Raelle got discharged from the hospital. He had gone for his regr checkup and met Justin again. And they spent quite some time together. So, they were even closer than the first time they met.

    Seeing Justin''s pout, he added, "Let''s eat something first." He touched Justin''s little tummy saying, "Look, your tummy is touching your back already. It''s lunchtime. We should eat first. Food first, everything else in life can wait. Got it?"

    "Got it," Justin nodded his head obediently.

    On the side, Mu Chenyan and Grandfather Xiang were observing this interaction with their sharp eyes. They didn''t even blink and the more they looked, the weirder the feeling was in their hearts.

    Both of them slipped to the side and looked at each other. Mu Chenyan licked her lips before opening her mouth to say, "Do you have the same feeling as I do?"

    "What do you think? I''m old, not blind," said Grandfather Xiang.

    "This could be a bizarre coincidence, right?" asked Mu Chenyan with a peal of awkwardughter but even she didn''t have faith in her own words right now. It just didn''t sound all that believable!

    "Are you trying to deceive yourself?" asked Grandfather Xiang. "Don''t bother. It''s too obvious!"

    Mu Chenyan''s mouth twitched, "Indeed, it''s self-evident. At first, I only got a familiar feeling seeing his eyes but now... Now, I must say that I know why I got that familiar feeling. He has the same eyes as everyone else in the Xiang family."

    "Wai doesn''t have those eyes," reminded Grandfather Xiang.

    "There are odd balls everwhere, Elder Xiang," said Mu Chenyan. "Let''s not get hung up on minor details like that. This is serious!"

    "You''re right. It is serious," agreed Grandfather Xiang. "What do you think is going on here?"

    "How would I know?" retorted Mu Chenyan.

    "Didn''t you always keep an eye on Wai and Weimin?"

    Mu Chenyan rolled her eyes at him, "And who was the one who said I should let the kids grow up freely? You wanted to give them freedom, didn''t you? So, how would I know everything? I only kept eyes on if they were doing well."

    "I can''t believe you missed out on this,"mented Grandfather Xiang.

    "How is it my fault?" asked Mu Chenyan. "The way they are acting, it really looks like a father and a son. Especially Justin looks like Weimin. When he was that age, he looked the same. Except that Weimin''s cheeks weren''t so chubby." She suddenly looked upset, "Did we not feed him enough back then? He''d have looked so adorable with chubby cheeks too, right?"

    "Focus, Chenyan!"

    Mu Chenyan coughed and got back on track as she sighed, "This won''t do. Let me go and do some investigation."

    "You''re still wasting time talking here? Get going already!"

    "Roger that!"

    She was about to turn but stopped and leaned down to say, "Elder Xiang, if he is really Weimin''s son, that means you have a great-grandson! You''re not old anymore. You''re ancient. An antique piece!"

    Grandfather Xiang smacked her head and she stopped cackling like an idiot.

    "You have a big influence on our family''s little prince," said Grandfather Xiang. "His brain is also cooking up this nonsense all the time like you. Stop that already. If I''m antique, you''re old. You''re a grandaunt!"

    Mu Chenyan felt like she was stabbed in her heart and her eyes widened in shock, "How about I don''t investigate it?"

    Grandfather Xiang pinched her nose, "Just by closing your eyes, the truth will change?"

    "Fine, fine!"

    It''s not like she was really gonna stop it. If she didn''t notice, that''d be a different case but now that she had, she couldn''t just ignore it. If their conjectures were right, their family''s descendant was right in front of them! How could they let him grow outside?

    "Minmin lived the clean life," she muttered to herself. "I wonder what went wrong."

    Even if she gave enough freedom to them to grow up, she still was familiar with their lifestyle and habits. So, she was very familiar with the fact that Xiang Weimin lived a clean life. His only interests were fighter jets and his flowering nts. Apart from that, he had close to no hobby.

    In a daze, Mu Chenyan walked to the dining table because as Xiang Weimin earlier said, first food and then anything else. She had to take in some food to provide energy to her body to even work. How will her brain work without fuel?

    She watched Xiang Weimin carrying Justin over and her eyes couldn''t move away from them. Side by side those faces gave her a bigger shock. What a loving father, and obedient son act was this!

    Throughout the lunch, only Mu Chenyan''s eyes were stuck on Xiang Weimin and Justin. Xiang Weimin kept putting food in Justin''s bowl and Justin bowed his head to eat. Even though he couldn''t use his chopsticks well at this age, he still insisted on doing it himself. He was slow but he wasn''t messy at all.

    He looked like a cute little furry animal when he ate.

    This cuteness was too much for Mu Chenyan''s heart.

 Chapter 1049: [Bonus chapter] Why Not Me?

    Chapter 1049: [Bonus chapter] Why Not Me?Yue Yue touched Mu Chenyan''s face and Mu Chenyan snapped back to reality. And only then did she notice that she seemed to have shed a tear unknowingly.

    ''You''re crying?'' mouthed Yue Yue with a baffled expression. She did not think there was anything to cry about around here. Was it? Did she miss out on something?

    Mu Chenyan cleared her throat and chuckled, "No, no. It was just too spicy."

    Yue Yue looked down at what Mu Chenyan was eating and mouthed, ''in rice is spicy? Are you okay?''

    Mu Chenyan looked down at her bowl and realized she had been eating only rice without taking any other dishes. She coughed unnaturally, "I mean it''s so nd that it brought me to tears."

    ''Then have the side dishes.''

    "Today, I saw a documentary on how poor the world is," said Mu Chenyan. "Remembering how those little kids didn''t even have anything to eat while my table was full of delicacies from mountains, seas, sky, and all, I can''t bring myself to swallow it."

    Yue Yue''s lips twitched at Mu Chenyan''s dramatic performance.

    "Then just donate and make sure those hungry kids are well-fed," came Raelle''s voice.

    Both Mu Chenyan and Yue Yue looked over to see Raelle cing down her chopsticks as she looked back at them.

    Mu Chenyan smiled, "That''s right. Why am I feeling so sad? Crying and pitying won''t help. I should do something about this hunger. As always, my Elle is the one with the best ideas."

    After lunch, Mu Chenyan watched Xiang Weimin take Justin to his garden. She walked to the sunroom and sat down on the bay window from where she could see them clearly. She took out her phone and dialed a number, "Ge!"

    "Chenchen? What is it? Why do you sound so upset? Who wronged you? Tell Ge, I''ll deal with that person. Did that Xia Zhao annoy you again?"

    Mu Chenyan smiled to herself, "It''s more like I annoy him more than he annoys me."

    "That''s true," Xiang Hulin couldn''t go against his conscience and say that the one suffering was Mu Chenyan when he knew it was always Xia Zhao taking the shorter end of the stick between them. "Then what is it?"

    "I have something to ask you," said Mu Chenyan. "I don''t know where to begin. So, I decided to start with you. Do you know if Weimin had a girlfriend?"

    Xiang Hulin took a moment to think before replying, "None that I know of. You know how our family is not good at sharing feelings? So, he never told me. But I never heard that he was dating. In school, he spent his time studying. And after school, he woulde to the barracks. Then right after school, he joined the army. It was even more difficult since he chose Air Force. The number of women around him had been pitifully few. So, if you said that he had a boyfriend, I''d be more willing to believe."

    "As a father, how can you even say that?"

    "Did I say anything wrong?"

    Mu Chenyan''s lips parted but she couldn''t say what he said wrong. Even she had a big doubt about her nephew''s sexuality for a long time. After all, everything that Xiang Hulin said was what she knew about Xiang Weimin as well. That''s why she said that he lived a very clean life!

    "Ge, you''re not helpful at all!"

    Xiang Hulin smiled at that, "Oh, Ge is really useless. Sorry for that, Chenchen."

    "It''s okay. Since you''re my favorite person in the world, I''ll reluctantly forgive you."

    Xiang Hulin said dotingly, "Chenchen, stop tiring yourself with your nephew''s matters. He is old enough to handle his own life. You pay attention to yourself."

    "I can''t help it," said Mu Chenyan. "Ge, when are youing?"

    "I''lle whenever you want me to," replied Xiang Hulin patiently.

    "Thene back soon," said Mu Chenyan. "Wrap up your work and get here. I miss you!"

    Mu Chenyan was saying goodbye to her brother when Raelle came to sit with her and looked at her in silence. Mu Chenyan also didn''t say anything and looked out the window. She looked at Xiang Weimin and Justin close together giggling and her lips curved up.

    "Stop, you look creepy!"

    Mu Chenyan''s smile dropped. Her lips twitched. She thought she had a goofy smile. Why did her Elle have to attack her with words like ''creepy''?

    "Elle, you don''t love me anymore."

    "How is that possible?"

    Mu Chenyan suddenly hit her head and asked, "Right, who is Justin''s mother?"

    "Tang Hebe," answered Raelle.

    "Oh, her?" Mu Chenyan fell silent for a moment and started muttering to herself. "Apart from being a little naive and slow, there aren''t that many ws in her. Still eptable. At least, she isn''t insidious or scheming. Her falling into schemes is more likely than her scheming anything. Hmm..."

    "What are you up to?" asked Raelle. "Justin is her adopted son."

    "Then who is the real mother?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Raelle took a moment and finally decided to tell Mu Chenyan everything she knew so far. Mu Chenyan listened attentively and nodded. She silently analyzed the whole situation before asking, "You really have no impression of her?"

    "You''re doubting my memory?"

    "I can never," said Mu Chenyan. "Anna didn''t find anything useful about this woman either?"

    "No," replied Raelle. "The only useful thing until now is that your nephew seems to be associated with her."

    Mu Chenyan looked up at her.

    "Xiang Weimin," added Raelle. "He seems to know her but isn''t willing to talk about it for whatever reason."

    "Why didn''t you tell me all this?" asked Mu Chenyan. "I''m a better person to look for when you want to find people. I have an extensivework! Did I waste my life making so many connections when you''re not even gonna use me?"

    "You already had a lot on your te, I didn''t want to add more to it."

    "How can you say that?" Mu Chenyan was displeased. "For my Elle, I always have time. Why do you keep forgetting that?"

 Chapter 1050: So Conflicted

    Chapter 1050: So ConflictedOf course, Raelle was very clear about how much time Mu Chenyan was willing to spare for her. She could leave the rest of the world just for her unimportant matters. So, she never doubted that Mu Chenyan won''t have the time to help her. But being the sensible one in this family, she didn''t want to burden her Yanyan in any way possible.

    She already thought arranging that engagement party was too much but she didn''t say anything about it because Mu Chenyan genuinely looked excited. That''s why she just went with the flow.

    Raelle wanted to leave when Mu Chenyan stopped her and said, "Elle, why don''t you sit with me and we have a little chat? I think it''s been so long since west sat together and chatted. Do you not like to spend time with your Yanyan anymore?"

    Raelle looked at her act of being pitiful calmly before she really took a seat again and said, "You''re right. We really haven''t had the chance to chat in a while. So, let''s have a... What do they say? Ah, heart-to-heart."

    Looking at Raelle''s reaction, Mu Chenyan felt a little uneasy and chuckled awkwardly, "I suddenly think it''s not a very good idea."

    "How is that so? I think it''s a very good idea," insisted Raelle. "So, my dear Yanyan, aren''t you tired?"

    "Tired?" asked Mu Chenyan in confusion.

    "You''ve been thinking about me since I was born. Your life revolved around me for the longest time. Then Hyson got into the mix. Now, even Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin are on your mind all the time. In fact, although you refuse to show it, you also keep thinking about Xian. So, I genuinely want to know aren''t you tired?" asked Raelle. "After thinking about everyone? When are you gonna start thinking about yourself?"

    "Me?" repeated Mu Chenyan with a strange expression. She wasn''t expecting this conversation to go this way. "I''m not tired. And do I have to think about myself? Don''t I have you for that?"

    "You''re right actually," agreed Raelle. "Lately, I have been thinking a lot about you."

    Mu Chenyan was surprised to hear this. Since when did Raelle Xiang start wasting her time thinking about people? Did she have that much free time? Oh, that''s right. She indeed seemed to have that much free timetely and that''s why all sorts of thoughts were swirling in her mind. No wonder, she even got the chance to think about her.

    Still, Mu Chenyan felt very ttered to know this.

    Aiyo, her Elle was such a good baby!

    "Stop gushing over me in your head," Raelle''s voice snapped Mu Chenyan out of it.

    "How did you know?"

    "Your expressions were too obvious," replied Raelle. "Besides, I might not be good at reading people but I''m familiar with all of you. Even your frown or lift of the brow is etched in my memory. It isn''t that hard to see through you. Not for me. After all, to me, you have been the model. I learned everything by watching you."

    "I never felt this way but since you mentioned it, I feel like I had a huge responsibility on my shoulders raising you. I didn''t even feel this pressured back then. Did I do something wrong? Did I set the wrong example? Hopefully not. That wasn''t my intention."

    Seeing how she was muttering to herself, Raelle just let her be for a moment. And only when she thought it was enough, did she speak up again, "Yanyan, stop looking for your happiness in me. Or anyone else. By doing it, you''re depriving yourself of the right to be happy."

    Mu Chenyan stared at Raelle and smiled, "Have I ever been unhappy?"

    "Maybe not," replied Raelle. "But there were times when you were lonely."

    Mu Chenyan suddenly went silent.

    "I''m the person who is most clear about what you gave up to just be with me," said Raelle. "Because you didn''t want me to grow up alone, you decided to give up on everything that made you, you. You stopped causing trouble. You stopped being temperamental. You even stopped drinking. Just to be a good role model."

    "I did it all willingly," said Mu Chenyan. "There was a problem with my lifestyle and it really wasn''t suitable for me anymore. That''s why I left it all behind. It wasn''t entirely because of you."

    "I know. I know some things happened and some people betrayed you which led to your choice of walking away. But you didn''t want to leave everything behind." Raelle also looked out the window at Xiang Weimin and Justin as she went on, "I didn''t understand it before. But now, I can understand a few things. Just like those two. They are practically strangers and yet, they instantly connected with each other from the moment they met. Things like the instant connection of hearts are difficult to exin but it is there. Things like love are also difficult to exin but it also exists."

    Mu Chenyan silently looked at the side of Raelle''s face in a daze. This was the girl she raised. She knew about all her ideas and thoughts. So, how could she not know that Raelle hadn''t been very interested in something like love but now, the same person was telling her she actually believed in it?

    The world really changed so much before she even knew it.

    "And it is because I have my own understand of love that I can see yours a lot clearer."

    Mu Chenyan was stunned.

    "I don''t understand when you''re going to see it through," added Raelle. "You already took so long. I wonder how much longer you''re gonna pretend to be oblivious."

    "What''s the point of seeing it through?" Mu Chenyan smiled bitterly. "You should stop worrying about me."

    "I''ll give those words back to you," said Raelle. "You stop worrying about me."

    "How is that possible? You''re my Elle. You''re my life."

    "Then how is it possible for me? You''re my Yanyan? Do you think you have any less important in my life just because I''m not very vocal about it?"

    Mu Chenyan stumped once again and shook her head, "Baby, you know that''s not what I mean. I just..." She didn''t know what to say. She didn''t want Raelle to worry about her but as Raelle said, it was impossible. She sighed heavily, "Okay. You just want me to give myself a little time and pay attention to myself, right?"

    "Right," answered Raelle. "That''s all I want. I want you to give yourself the importance and attention that you give me. Even half of it would do. I just want you to give yourself time to find the answers that you really have in your heart but keep trying to push off."

    "I''ll try."

    Raelle gave her a look.

    "I said, I''ll try. I promise! Have I ever gone back on a promise to you? No way! I can break the promise I made to myself but not you," said Mu Chenyan when she felt like Raelle didn''t believe her words.

    "Then you should stop breaking promises to yourself too."

    Mu Chenyan smiled helplessly at that and hugged Raelle saying, "Okay. I''ll do as you say. Have I ever not done what you say? I don''t dare."

    Raelle didn''t push her away and even ced her hand on her arm while she leaned into her embrace. Her head rested against Mu Chenyan making thetter float in the air. Her smile was soft and loving as she pointed towards Xiang Weimin and Justin to tell Raelle, "Justin looks like a miniature version of your brother."

    "Huh?"

    "That''s true. Our Minmin was also this adorable when he was five. And also didn''t like to talk to people that much. But he loved his nts and dinosaurs."

    Raelle didn''t know that so she listened attentively without disturbing her.

    "So, that instant connection you spoke about, Elder Xiang and I feel like there is a reason for that," she added. "That''s why I asked you about Justin''s mother. Now, that you told me everything you know, it shortens the time for my research and I don''t have to go around in circles. Thanks for your help!"

    "So, Justin could be my nephew?" asked Raelle.

    "Mhmm," hummed Mu Chenyan in agreement.

    "No wonder, I liked him. Such an adorable bean can only be from our family."

    Mu Chenyan burst outughing and pinched Raelle''s nose, "Yeah. But no one can be more adorable than my Elle."

    "But I didn''t think our family was so irresponsible,"mented Raelle. "You have to talk to your nephew. How can he leave my nephew out there letting him grow up in the wild? Does he want a beating?"

    "Shouldn''t we be thinking about whether Weimin even knows about his son''s existence or not?"

    "That''s also true," said Raelle. "But still, how can he let my nephew suffer like this?"

    Mu Chenyan found Raelle really adorable and agreed with whatever she said. "Okay, I''ll definitely straighten up Weimin. How can he let our family''s child suffer? We don''t allow that in this family. I''ll let him know what a grave sin he hasmitted. We''ll punish him with the familyw!"

    "You don''t have to go so hard on him," said Raelle. "As you said, he doesn''t seem to even know anything."

    Mu Chenyan smiled and shook her head at Raelle who was trying to defend her brother while at the same time wanting to punish him. So, when was thest time her Elle was so conflicted about something? It was so amusing to see.

 Chapter 1051: Mystery Master

    Chapter 1051: Mystery MasterRaelle already knew what kind of a person Mu Chenyan was and how efficiently she worked. So, she wasn''t surprised when Mu Chenyan dragged Xiang Weimin to inquire about everything. She waited and when Mu Chenyan came out, she asked her.

    Since Xiang Weimin didn''t tell her how he was associated with Chi Xirui, she was certain Mu Chenyan would be able to get answers. So, she decided to just ask her Yanyan but who knew that even Mu Chenyan refused to share things with her and only said, "You don''t have to bother yourself with these things. I''ll handle everything from here."

    "Is this what they call to burn the bridge after crossing it?" Raelle said it out loud when she saw Mu Chenyan leaving.

    "What do you mean, wife?"

    Raelle looked at Shui Xian and told him, "I''m being left out."

    "Oh," responded Shui Xian. He held her hand and smiled at her, "It''s okay. I''m here. I will never leave you out."

    "Forget it," said Raelle. "By the way, I might have to acknowledge a nephew soon enough."

    "Huh?" Shui Xian was dumbfounded by this sudden revtion.

    "We are about to be aunt and uncle,"mented Raelle. She suddenly thought of something and added, "But we are not the only ones." She took out her phone and called someone. Shui Xian looked at her movements and when he noticed whom she was calling, he shook his head helplessly with a smile on his face. "Yo, bestie! Guess what? You''re about to be an uncle. Hyson, you''re old now."

    Shui Xian had to stifle hisughter when heard Raelle provoking Hyson and thetter responding exactly as they envisioned it. It was like someone stepped on Hyson''s tail as he roared, "Who said that? I''m still a baby! How can I be an uncle? I refuse! I refuse! I refuse! Important things should be repeated three times! I refuse! Thisst one was to emphasize my refusal!"

    "Your refusal is unimportant here,"mented Raelle.

    Hyson calmed down and thought about it before frowning, "Ellie, you''re pregnant again?"

    "No," replied Raelle calmly.

    "Then how can I be an uncle? There is still time in that," Hyson patted his chest calming himself down.

    "But your nephew is already old enough to buy soy sauce!"

    "Huh?" Hyson was silent for a moment before asking, "Ellie, when did you have such a big child? Does Xian Ge know? You can''t just randomly take in a son. It''s unfair to Xian Ge."

    "What nonsense are you up to again?"

    "I''m the one up to nonsense? I think it''s you!"

    "I''m talking about our family''s lieutenant colonel Xiang Weimin! He might have a son!"

    Hyson gasped and stood up in shock even dropping the script in hisp on to the floor. That''s how much of a shock it was to him.

    "Are you sure? How is that possible? Isn''t he single? Why didn''t he talk about his son when I was there?"

    "Now, that''s the interesting part," said Raelle. "He''s clueless."

    Hyson burst outughing, "You''re saying, he doesn''t even know he is a father? Oh my God! What kind of a lusy script did he pick up? This is so much drama! So, did the mother of the child showed up at the door with the kid and demanded him to take responsibility?" Hyson had alreadye up with a hundred plot scenarios in his mind and was amusing himself all on his own. "What did our Lieutenant look? He is a man of few words, he might not even know how to respond. Tsk. Tsk. Poor him!"

    "You''re enjoying this way too much when it''s not even like that," said Raelle and then told him everything.

    Hyson suddenly cursed, "Damn! This is even more drama then I thought. But from dog blood, it turned into mystery! Wow!" He took a pause and asked, "You really didn''t find anything about that woman?"

    "Nope."

    "Lietenant didn''t share what kind of a rtionship he had with her?"

    "Nope!"

    "Aren''t you curious?"

    "What''s the point?" asked Raelle. "I can''t find anything useful. Yanyan isn''t too willing to let me get involved in this either."

    Hyson''s eyes narrowed as he said, "But Yanyan isn''t the only one who can help you."

    "What do you mean?"

    "Why are you slow at a time like this? If you''re giving me gossip, at least do theplete research before sharing. Now, I even have to help you solve the mystery. Wouldn''t that waste my braincells?"

    "You should allow your braincells to exercise once in a while before they rust."

    Hyson wasn''t mad at her words at all, "Haha! Very funny! Now, hear me out genuis! Yanyan always said there is only one person who is better than her. And if he is better than her at everything. Do you really think he won''t be able to find out what Yanyan can find out?"

    "You''re talking about Xia Zhao?" asked Raelle but she was certain he was talking about him.

    "Of course! Go and find him!" said Hyson. "This whole matter of how that woman is involved with Xiang Weimin isn''t even your concern. Your matter is how she is associated with you and why she said you saved her when you have no memory of it. Use your resources well!"

    Raelle also agreed with this. "Hmm... You''re right. Even Opa said a lot about Xia Zhao. I should look for him and see what he is capable of."

    "What do you think he is capable of?" asked Hyson. "You met him already. What impression do you have of him?"

    "He is... Definitely capable of a lot," answered Raelle.

    "Then you have the answer right there," said Hyson. "Now, go and solve the mystery. You should solve it before we see each other at the engagement party or I''ll keep feeling anxious!"

    "Focus on work rather than on mysteries!"

    "I was focused on work, it''s you who disturbed me! I''m hanging up now!"

    "Scram!" said Raelle and hung up before he could. Then she looked at Shui Xian who was looking back at her in amusement and said, "Even though he rarely uses his brain, he definitelyes up with good ns."

    Shui Xian shook his head again, "I think you already had the same idea in mind. You just wanted someone to give you an excuse to follow it and Hyson seems to be the right person since he knows what you want."

 Chapter 1052: [Bonus chapter] Pitiful Brother

    Chapter 1052: [Bonus chapter] Pitiful BrotherXiang Wai was the only person who wasn''t in the know of this whole family. She just kept looking at everything with a big question mark over her head. Why was she feeling left out?

    But then she looked at her brother and realized he also seemed to know nothing.

    Yes, she could tell.

    Good, she won''t feel so lonely this time.

    But she still ran over to her grandfather to ask, "Grandpa, what secret is going on in our family this time around?"

    Grandfather Xiang looked at his granddaughter and beckoned her over. When she sat down beside him, he asked, "First, I need to ask you something. Do you know if your brother has had a girlfriend?"

    "No," replied Xiang Wai without even thinking. "He is so ascetic, when did he get a girlfriend? The dearest thing to him had always been his flowers. I was close to believing that one day he''ll actually say his nts are his girlfriends. Hahaha!"

    Grandfather Xiang alsoughed along with her. Oh, this granddaughter of his was really something else.

    "Then your brother has hidden him well," said Grandfather Xiang.

    Xiang Wai stoppedughing, "You mean he has a girlfriend?"

    Grandfather Xiang shrugged, "Quite possible."

    "Why don''t I know about it?" muttered Xiang Wai. "He always had a weird expression when I brought up this topic. Had he been hiding things from me? How is that possible? My brother never did that to me before."

    "Rx, I''ll tell you," said Grandfather Xiang and shared his conjectures.

    Xiang Wai obviously didn''t know what her brother looked like when he was young. After all, she was younger than him and had never really looked through their childhood photo albums. All those albums were in the old house anyway and none of them went there. Maybe their parents kept some photos but she didn''t know about that at all.

    That''s why she didn''t feel like Justin looked like Xiang Weimin but she didn''t doubt Grandfather Xiang''s words. Especially when she recalled Justin''s eyes. Indeed, it hade to her mind that those eyes were familiar. Now, she understood, everyone in their family had those eyes except for her.

    "Grandpa, even a tiny kid has the same eyes. Why are mine different?"

    Grandfather Xiang did not think her focus would be on this. He still coaxed her, "Everyone is different. You inherited yours from your mother."

    "But I look the odd one out," said Xiang Wai with a pout. Standing with Ge and Raelle, I feel like I am left out. Both of them are geniuses. Both of them look alike. Even their temperament and personalities share simrities. Why is everything different when ites to me?

    "How is it different?" asked Grandfather Xiang. "You''re just like your aunt Chenyan. And do you know who your aunt Chenyan was like? Your Grandma. She was just like you. In fact, your features share quite some resemnce with your grandma."

    "Really?" Xiang Wai looked at him expectantly.

    "Really," answered Grandfather Xiang. "I''ll show you her old photos. Then you''ll see how much resemnce you have with your grandma. You''re not the odd one out. If anything, you''re the lively in the family. The other two are block of ice and wood. You don''t have to learn from them."

    "I still have my advantages," Xiang Wai felt happy to hear that.

    Only after talking to her grandfather did she go back to her room. But while passing her brother, she couldn''t help but stop and gave him a look of pity. "What''s up?" asked Xiang Weimin who was baffled to see his sister giving him that look of pity. When did he be so pitiful?

    "Ge, I..." Xiang Wai sighed and patted his shoulder. "Hang in there. I feel bad for you right now. For real."

    "Huh?"

    Xiang Wai didn''t exin and entered her room. She really felt bad for her brother who didn''t know anything. He had a son but he was oblivious. What a pity! But she wasn''t a fool who''d tell him everything before everything was confirmed either. What if it did more damage?

    Her phone was ringing and she happily took the video call when she saw it was Zhai Yanjun who called.

    "Jun!"

    "Oh, you look very happy today,"mented Zhai Yanjun.

    "There is so much excitement going on around here," said Xiang Wai. "I almost feel overwhelmed."

    "It''s good. At least, everyday is exciting for you now rather than being boring and in."

    "That''s true," agreed Xiang Wai.

    "Had my dade over today?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "Uncle didn''te today," answered Xiang Wai. "Hees over more than usual but he doesn''t stay for that long either. He alwayses to just check up on Aunt Yue. He seems to be very concerned about her."

    Zhai Yanjun nodded his head at that.

    "But I don''t understand why he is being like this?" Xiang Wai looked at her boyfriend''s face. "Is he trying to court Aunt Yue?"

    "I think he is just testing the waters for now," replied Zhai Yanjun without any hesitation. He didn''t think he needed to hide anything from her.

    "You mean..." Xiang Wai was surprised to hear that but suddenly recalled something and went silent. It didn''t seem all that weird when she thought about how Hyson was Zhai Yanjun''s brother. Not like he knew it though. She suddenly wondered if Zhai Kuijun had figured it out. That''d exin his proactive self.

    "Well, I asked him to figure out what he wanted," told Zhai Yanjun. "I don''t know where they''d go. But for now, I think there is no harm in trying, right?"

    "And you''re okay with that?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "It''s not like you know nothing," said Zhai Yanjun. "I don''t care about my dad finding another partner. I''m more than happy if that person is my Aunt Yue. So, why wouldn''t I actively help him?" He took a pause and added, "And I also have another reason to do this."

    "What reason?" she asked curiously.

 Chapter 1053: Got Very Lucky

    Chapter 1053: Got Very LuckyAs Zhai Yanjun learned from Shui Xian, he had to be honest in front of his partner. So, he didn''t want to hide anything from Xiang Wai even if the matter was really his family''s secret and might not seem good to outsiders.

    However, he knew Xiang Wai won''t judge him at all. So, he didn''t care.

    "Yue Fai... He is my half-brother," told Zhai Yanjun.

    At first, Xiang Wai was silent but then gasped exaggeratedly, "What? How did that happen? Are you sure you''re not mistaken? Who told you this? This is so..."

    The more she spoke, the more Zhai Yanjun felt something was wrong. Xiang Wai wasn''t good at acting. This was a known fact. She was a very bad actress. So, Zhai Yanjun could see through her right now. He could see it very clearly.

    "Wai, you know."

    It wasn''t a question. It was a statement that left no room for denial.

    Xiang Wai stopped talking and pursed her lips as she looked at him, "I... I did know."

    Zhai Yanjun was still a little surprised that she knew. How? How did she know? And did she know even before him? When did that happen?

    "I didn''t mean to hide it," said Xiang Wai. "I was so stressed and scared when I learned it. It was aplete ident. Trust me!"

    Zhai Yanjun didn''t me her as he asked, "So, when did you learn about this?"

    "Thest time when we had dinner at home after Raelle got discharged from the hospital," replied Xiang Wai.

    It''s been three weeks since Raelle got discharged which meant, it''s been a considerable time since Xiang Wai knew about this.

    "How did you learn about it?"

    "I identally eavesdropped on Raelle and Fai," answered Xiang Wai with her head lowered as if she was a kid who had done something wrong and was now acknowledging her mistakes honestly, feeling guilty and looking aggrieved and pitiful.

    "And that''s why you caught a cold,"mented Zhai Yanjun and then he chuckled. "Silly."

    Xiang Wai looked up at the screen and saw him smiling at her. "You''re not mad at me?"

    "Why would I be?"

    "I didn''t tell you about it."

    "It''s alright," said Zhai Yanjun. "It wasn''t your responsibility to tell me anything. Besides, I can see you suffered because of your own conflict of whether you should tell me or not. Why are you so hard on yourself? It''s just keeping a secret from me. Was it that difficult?"

    "I felt like I''d be deceiving you," she argued.

    "Not really. And even if that''s true. I''m willing to be deceived by you of all people. Who asked me to love you?"

    Xiang Wai finally smiled when she heard that and nodded her head. "Then how did you find it?"

    "Dad told me," answered Zhai Yanjun and before she could ask how Zhai Kuijun knew, he added, "He heard it from my maternal grandfather."

    "Huh? That''s an unexpected person to reveal the secret," said Xiang Wai.

    Zhai Yanjun sighed, "Indeed. It was really unexpected that grandfather chose to reveal it all to dad on his own initiative. I guess he finally found his conscience and decided to not blindly prosecute one daughter for the other one."

    "That''s good."

    "Actually, I have a reason why I told you this," said Zhai Yanjun. "I decided to find out what exactly happened back then but whenever Ie before Ayi, I lose my courage. I can''t seem to bring myself to pry open her old wounds."

    "But if you won''t ask, how would you know?" asked Xiang Wai. "Once you have time, just sit down with Aunt Yue and talk properly. I have seen how much she loves you. If you''re the one asking, she won''t mind anything. I know she won''t."

    "I should really stop chickening out," said Zhai Yanjun.

    "So, how does it feel?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Hm?"

    "Having a brother all of a sudden?" Xiang Wai observed his face as she continued, "I found it very ufortable when I first learned about Raelle."

    "You''re a child back then," reminded Zhai Yanjun.

    "Still, it doesn''t change the fact that I was not okay with having another sister. Especially when everyone said that sister broke my happy family. You have never seen a happy family, Yanjun because your parents had always been at odds. But I do remember a very harmonious family. Doting grandparents, an aunt whose love knew no bound, and parents who were reserved by very attentive in their own ways. So, when I lost everything all at once, my baby heart became resentful and rebellious. I med it all on Raelle."

    "And now, you have a sisterplex," said Zhai Yanjun. "I havee to understand something recently. We are heavily shaped by the people that surround us. You and I didn''t have good people''s influence. Now, you and I both can see things a lot more clearly." He took a pause and added, "Now, you know that the person who suffered back then was Raelle. You got the taste of a happy family. She never even got her parents. And you don''t me her for anything but in fact, you feel guilty every time you look at her and want to give her everything and be close to her."

    "It''s toote for that though."

    "No, you''re getting closer," said Zhai Yanjun. "In my case, I always yearned to have a sibling. I might have found it weird if that brother had been anyone else but it''s Fai. You should know what Fai is to me. I can''t even bring myself to hurt him. He is too precious. How can I not love that little brother? I think I got very lucky."

    Xiang Wai smiled at that, "I think we both got very lucky."

    "True. I am d you found Raelle."

    "And I''m d you found Fai. Although he is annoying, he really is irreceable."

    Zhai Yanjun chuckled at that. Of course, his brother was annoying but it was okay.

 Chapter 1054: [Bonus chapter] Rare Guest

    Chapter 1054: [Bonus chapter] Rare GuestRaelle drove out this morning all alone. First, Shui Xian was working. Second, she wanted to go out alone and wanted to drive on her own. Thankfully, she managed to convince B¨¤ that she could drive on her own and that there was nothing wrong with it.

    Actually, she rarely drove. Usually, she sat in the back seat and did other work like reading emails, work documents, or even her books. She rarely sat doing nothing. In fact, it only started after she married Shui Xian because her husband said she should pay more attention to the world than books.

    Raelle got the address of this ce from Grandfather Xiang and when she drove in here, she already liked the peacefulness of this ce. It was so quiet and she could only hear the chirps of the birds that sounded melodious. It was pleasing. And as she got out of the car, she could feel that the air was fresher here.

    Perhaps, because of the greenery around here.

    The sound of the wooden water fountain caught her attention and she looked over at the water dripping from it. Then she looked at the beautiful Zen garden as she walked through the pathway and arrived at the door. She raised her hand and rang the bell.

    The door was opened soon and the person she was looking for appeared before her eyes. Xia Zhao looked at the very unexpected guest at his doorstep and raised his brow in surprise. This was truly an unexpected guest.

    "Raelle?"

    "Hello, Uncle Zhao," greeted Raelle. "Are you uncertain if I''m really here or not?"

    "No, I''m just surprised to see you."

    "Am I not allowed here?" she asked.

    Xia Zhao stepped out of the way and even opened the door wide for her, "How is that even possible? Consider it your own ce. Come inside."

    "Thank you," said Raelle as she walked inside without any burden. After all, she knew he''d wee her with open arms. She had no doubt about that.

    Xia Zhao closed the door as she entered and even took out the new slippers for her to wear as he told her, "These are new. No one has used these. So, you can wear them. It''spletely hygienic."

    "You can tell I don''t like shared things? You have done your research."

    "It''s not difficult to tell," hemented. "Come in, and have a seat. You''re such a rare guest. You didn''t even tell beforeing. What if I wasn''t home?"

    "Then I''d just wait for you," she replied.

    "Then I''m d I didn''t go anywhere today. It''d be a shame if you had to wait. I can''t let Raelle Xiang wait for me. I don''t dare."

    Raelle looked at him in interest, "Do you think I''din to Yanyan if you made me wait?"

    "Would you?" he asked in return.

    "I''m not a tattletale," she said. "I''ve always been a good child. I don''t makeints. I handle my own things."

    "That''s what I thought," he chuckled softly at her and asked, "What would you like to drink?"

    "Anything is fine. I''m not particr about this," she replied.

    "So, you''re really not particr,"mented Xia Zhao. "But I heard you''re quite particr about the people who can associate with you."

    "How can people be the same as food? We can live without people. Food is indispensable!"

    "I strongly agree," said Xia Zhao. "It seems we have the same ideologies."

    "Yes, and that''s why I think we''d make good friends," said Raelle.

    Xia Zhao ced the tea utensils on the table and sat down properly to make the tea. Raelle watched all his movements with attention as it was pleasing to look at. After all, every move of his was elegant and like flowing water. It was kind of soothing even the way he poured tea into the cup.

    As he offered her the cup of tea, he said, "But ording to my knowledge, Raelle doesn''t make friends."

    Raelle took a sip of the tea and nodded in satisfaction, "Good tea."

    "Thank you, I cultivated it myself," replied Xia Zhao.

    "You''ve interesting hobbies," said Raelle. "And I must say, you do know a little too well about me. It''s what? Our third meeting or so? And you seem to know every detail like I don''t make friends."

    "It''s not a secret exactly," was his response.

    "True, it''s not a secret," said Raelle. "But since you paid so much attention to me, should I say I''m special? Or is it that Yanyan is?"

    "You''re very special," said Xia Zhao. "But there is no doubt that Yanzi is also very special."

    "I knew you''d say that."

    Xia Zhao only shook his head and went to the kitchen. When he came back, he ced a tray of pasteries before her. "Have some. I made these osmanthus cakes this morning."

    "Really? Were you expecting someone else?"

    "Yes, actually," replied Xia Zhao without hiding it. "I was expecting someone. But you gave me a surprise before that person. Not that I mind though."

    Raelle looked around at the minimalistic interior. A soothing scent was floating in the air and she asked, "What''s this smell?"

    "It''s a spirit-calming incense," replied Xia Zhao. "Would you like to have some?"

    "Can I have some?"

    "Why not?"

    "How much?"

    "It''s free."

    "I don''t like free things."

    "What a surprise, neither do I!"

    Both of them looked at each other with interest and seemed to have a very tacit understanding of each other at the moment. It was just as Raelle said. This was their only third meeting but they didn''t seem like strangers at all.

    "What should I do to get this spirit-calming incense?"

    "But there is nothing Ick."

    "Oh, I thought youcked a partner."

    Xia Zhao was slightly stunned at her blunt words. She didn''t even hesitate but just threw the straight ball. So, they were right about Raelle. She didn''t beat around the bush. She''d always catch you off guard with her straightforward words just like she did to him right now. He really liked people like her.

 Chapter 1055: Slow With Emotions

    Chapter 1055: Slow With EmotionsTo be honest, Xia Zhao did not expect that one day someone of Raelle''s age would straight up tells him that hecked a partner. Even the people who knew him for years didn''t talk about this topic.

    Xia Zhao smiled at her and said, "You really don''t hold back, eh?"

    "Should I?" she asked in return.

    He shook his head, "There is no need to. This is what makes you different from others. I quite like your personality. It''s not Yanzi even though she raised you."

    "You really think I''m not Yanyan?" asked Raelle.

    Xia Zhao nodded his head in agreement, "You''re indeed not like her." He stood up and walked to a table. Raelle watched him open a drawer and take out an exquisitely carved wooden box as he continued to talk, "Yanzi looks daring but she backs out when she has to confront her feelings. You don''t do it. Even when you don''t understand the feelings, you''re not scared of the unknown. So, I must say, you''re a lot more daring than Yanzi."

    Since his back was towards her, she didn''t see what he was doing with that wooden box. She only saw himing back with the wooden box and cing it in front of her, "Here. It''s for you. The spirit-calming incense."

    Raelle looked at the box. The workmanship of the wooden box was intricate and lifelike. It made her look at it again carefully. But she didn''t move to take the box just yet. Instead, she looked up at him, "Why do you say Yanyan is not daring? When did she back out? When she should have confronted her feelings for you?"

    Xia Zhao shook his head, "Do you think she dropped out of medical school just for no reason? That was her backing out of a confrontation. Of all people, she didn''t want to argue with a man she considered her friend. So, she chose to walk out. It didn''t mean she was scared. It''s just he was someone she trusted for a long time and questioning him would mean she had been wrong all along for trusting the wrong person. And let me tell you a secret, Yanzi doesn''t like facing her mistakes. She doesn''t like it when she is wrong. She doesn''t like it even more when she loses."

    Raelle didn''t argue with him on this topic. Because she knew he was right.

    "You seem to know her way too well,"mented Raelle. "She might not know herself that well."

    "That''s because she doesn''t pay attention to herself that much," he answered. "She pays more attention to people around herself. For instance, you. Ask her anything, she''d know the smallest detail regarding you but the same might not be true when you ask about herself."

    Raelle recalled how she had said the same thing to Mu Chenyan just the other day.

    "I think I like you, Uncle Zhao,"mented Raelle which caught him off guard once again.

    "Huh?"

    "I really do," added Raelle. "You know my Yanyan too well. And you seem to care about her a lot too. I happen to like people who genuinely think about her."

    Xia Zhao had to say that Mu Chenyan hadn''t doted on Raelle for nothing. This young woman was certainly more concerned about Mu Chenyan than any one else. It just indicated what kind of a bond these two shared. Even without a blood rtionship, they were the irreceable part of each others'' lives.

    "Do you mind me asking you a question?"

    Xia Zhao looked into her nk eyes and nodded, "Sure. You can ask me anything."

    "You''re single, right?"

    "Yes."

    "Have you been waiting for her?"

    "I have," he answered without any hesitation.

    "You really are?" asked Raelle. She couldn''t understand it for a moment. Because she was still new to the concept of love, she didn''t expect someone to wait their whole life for another person. She wanted to understand, why?

    Xia Zhao gave her a nod, "At first, I waited because she challenged me she''d nevere back. She said she won''t look back. It was the first time, I made a bet with her instead of the other way around. And the bet was, she''de looking for me on her own initiative."

    "You won, right?"

    Xia Zhao smiled in response, "Honestly, it was the first time in my life when I was actually happy that I won the bet. Before that, whenever I won, I couldn''t feel happy. I only felt bad seeing her so worked up. But this time, when she came to look for me, I really realized what happiness was in winning. What she was actually after all those years." He took a pause and added, "But as I said, I only waited for that bet. At least, that''s what I thought."

    "Now, your thoughts are different?" inquired Raelle.

    "It''s very different," answered Xia Zhao. "Because I''ve realized that all this while, I was in love with her. I was just unable to understand it at all. Can you believe it? At my age, I couldn''t even understand my own feelings."

    Raelle wasn''t surprised to hear that. It was an answer she had expected. And he had answered so straightforwardly to her, she could understand the reason too. She was straightforward and he didn''t want to go around in circles with her since she won''t like it. Apart from that, she was Mu Chenyan''s darling Elle, he didn''t want to lie to her.

    It was strange but Raelle could actually tell that Xia Zhao paid attention to her all because of Mu Chenyan. As they say, love the person, love its dog. It was the same concept being applied here.

    "I know," said Raelle. "Thest time, we met when you came to our house, I could tell that you hadn''t understood things. You just followed your heart without knowing what it meant."

    "You knew?" Xia Zhao raised his brow at her inquisitively. Was he even slower than Raelle Xiang who was known for being slow with emotions?

 Chapter 1056: [Bonus chapter] Run Away

    Chapter 1056: [Bonus chapter] Run AwayRaelle cleared her throat and added, "Well, at least, my husband could tell."

    Xia Zhao actually breathed a sigh of relief when he heard that. He really thought he was slower than Raelle. If that was the case, then he should just go and jump down a cliff or something in shame!

    "Then it''s easier to understand,"mented Xia Zhao.

    "But he said you didn''t realize your feelings at that time. Now, you''re clear about it all. What happened in between?" asked Raelle.

    Xia Zhao shrugged, "I just met a person who was crazily in love. And that one gave me a lecture on love. I must say, it wasn''t a good feeling being lectured by someone younger but it did help."

    "Oh, you got lucky then. I wonder if Yanyan can run into someone like that," said Raelle.

    Xia Zhao looked at her, "Do you think she has any feelings for me? Apart from wanting to kill me?"

    "Do you think if she wanted to kill you, you''d be alive?" asked Raelle in return. "You might be more capable than her but she got tricks you can''t imagine. In fact, in your case, she didn''t even have to use her brain toe up with a huge trick. All she had to do was poison your drink or food and you''d be gone. After all, from what I saw, you have a blind trust in her so even if she fed you poison, you''ll willingly take it."

    Okay, once again, it wasn''t a great feeling to be lectured by someone of a younger generation.

    Xia Zhao sighed softly, "I can''t even argue. What argument can I even have here? Of course, if she wanted me dead, I''d be dead. It was truly easy for her to take my life." He took a pause and added, "But she was heartless. She didn''t take my life. She took my heart and refused to take responsibility as well!"

    Raelle looked at him carefully. It was hard to see anything from his expressions. It reminded her of the times when she looked in the mirror. Even if his face wasn''t as impassive as hers, she still couldn''t read it.

    "What exactly happened between you two?" asked Raelle.

    Xia Zhao went silent and didn''t answer. Until now, he had answered everything but suddenly didn''t want to speak. How interesting and suspicious!

    What exactly happened?

    She suddenly recalled the conjecture that Shui Xian hade up with and although she had denied it back then, she couldn''t help bringing it up now, "Don''t tell me she slept with you and ran away."

    Xia Zhao''s body froze for a split second before he rxed. But that one tiny moment didn''t escape Raelle''s keen eyes.

    "She really did?"

    Xia Zhao cleared his throat, "How about we don''t talk about that?"

    Raelle nodded her head since she already got her answer. But she still said, "Sure. Then I won''t ask. It doesn''t concern me anyway. It''s a matter between you and Yanyan. So, I suggest you talk to her about it."

    "You said it yourself, she ran away," said Xia Zhao. "And she is still running away. All she does is run away. If she was willing to sit down and talk about it, would we be here today? Would we have wasted so many years?"

    "Yes, you would have," said Raelle. "You see, I believe I''m the reason you wasted so many years." Xia Zhao stared at her as she went on, "You both might have solved this issue long ago. But I came in between. Me being Yanyan''s responsibility, she stopped paying attention to the rest of the world. Even to herself. How could she remember you? If I wasn''t her responsibility, things would be different. So, you can me me for your wasted years."

    "Never," he said sternly. "You have nothing to do with this. You''re a very intelligent person, I know that. And I understand that you believe you held back Yanzi all those years. But trust me, it wasn''t the case. I know Yanzi more than she knows herself. No one can hold her back except for herself. Even if she loves her brother the most in this world, even Xiang Hulin can''t hold her back. Whenever she wanted to get into trouble, he couldn''t stop her. Why? Because she is stubborn! Once she sets her heart and mind on something or someone, she won''t walk away."

    Raelle lowered her head as she listened to what he said.

    "You know when you''re born, she called me," he said. "She asked me for help to find you. But before I could do anything, your grandmother found you and saved you. And when Yanzi held you in her arms, she told me that she has found her world. She said she finally found her purpose. She could stop aimlessly roaming around because her whole world was in her arms at that time."

    Raelle looked up at him as he smiled gently at her.

    "I think you know what you mean to her," said Xia Zhao. "She never calls you just her niece. Her niece is Xiang Wai. You? You''re her whole life and her entire world."

    "But it won''t change the fact that she wasted her life on me," said Raelle.

    "I think you''ve had this conversation with Yanzi,"mented Xia Zhao.

    "How do you know that?" asked Raelle.

    "Because she told mest night," answered Xia Zhao.

    "She called you?"

    He nodded in response.

    Raelle looked at him for a moment in silence before saying, "Then you still have doubts whether she has any feelings for you or not?" Xia Zhao raised his brow at her as she continued, "Yanyan doesn''t call just anyone to share her feelings. Not even me. She doesn''t like to share what''s on her mind because she is too used to being independent. But yet, she looked for you to share everything? Don''t you wonder why?"

    Xia Zhao fell into once again when he heard that. Indeed, why?

 Chapter 1057: Youre Alright

    Chapter 1057: You''re Alright"Maybe because she knows if she told me anything, the secret would be safe. I won''t share it with anyone so she can feel at ease to talk to me about anything," said Xia Zhao.

    "I didn''t think youck this much self-confidence,"mented Raelle.

    Xia Zhao shrugged, "I don''t wanna get my hopes up."

    *Thud!*

    A muffled sound of something falling was heard from upstairs and both of them looked up. Xia Zhao frowned slightly before he rolled his eyes unnoticeably.

    "Do you have a cat?" asked Raelle.

    "No," replied Xia Zhao. "I don''t have any pets."

    "Then did wind drop something?" But then she looked outside and added, "I don''t think it''s windy outside though." She looked back at him, "I thought you were alone at home."

    "I was," he answered. "But not anymore."

    Raelle only nodded her head and didn''t ask further because she thought since she was there. He was definitely not alone at home anymore. She threw this small incident to the back of her head and didn''t let it distract her.

    "Uncle Zhao, I''m younger than you and won''tment on your rtionship with Yanyan. I just want to say, if you really have feelings for her. Don''t be hesitant. You said you guys have wasted years. Can you not waste your whole life?"

    Xia Zhao looked at her carefully as he said, "You really love Yanzi."

    "She is my family," replied Raelle. "She made me who I am today. I recently met my mother and if I''m not wrong, you know who she is or how she is."

    "Yes," nodded Xia Zhao. "Professor Song is well-known."

    "I never knew before meeting her that she and I had so much inmon,"mented Raelle. "Maybe it''s the blood or our genes, but I''m heavily influenced by her even though I only met herst month for the first time in my life. Her personality is quite simr to mine and so is her thinking."

    "Yes," agreed Xia Zhao. "I''ve noticed that. Professor Song and you share the same intelligence and same interests. It''s not that difficult to see that you are a mother and daughter. But what are you trying to say by mentioning her?"

    "She told me that there is a huge difference between the two of us," started Raelle. "She said I was shaped into who I am with love. She became what she is because of ack of love. At the end of the day, the people who raised us influenced us heavily. And that''s why she said, I look like the light while she will always be the dark night. nts need care and attention, so how can humans not need it to grow? If you don''t pay attention to nts, they wither or grow crooked. The same happens with the humans."

    Xia Zhao didn''t disturb her as he listened attentively, he seemed to have grasped why she was telling him about this but he still let her talk.

    "You know who shaped me?" asked Raelle.

    "Yanzi," replied Xia Zhao.

    Raelle nodded her head, "Yes. I''m a difficult person. I know. I can get tiring too. I know that too. I''m not normal. But Yanyan never cared what I was or who I was. Her love, patience, care, or attention never changed when it came to me. Today when I look back, I can tell you positively that if she wasn''t around, Raelle Xiang you see today would be very different. My ideologies would have been different. I might have not been this principled in life. I have never used my abilities to harm people but all of that could have been different if she wasn''t there." She stared into his eyes and questioned, "So, tell me, am I not supposed to love her? I don''t even know if love is the right word but I know if there is a person I genuinely respect from the deepest part of my heart apart from Opa, then that is Mu Chenyan. She had no obligation to be there for me but she was. She had been a mother, an aunt, an elder sister, an elder brother, a father, a younger brother or sister, in fact, she yed whatever role I needed in life."

    Although Xia Zhao knew all of this, it was still different to hear iting straight from her. It made his heart feel sour and yet, a little prideful to know that his Yanzi was so great.

    "The conclusion is, if you gave up on her, you''re losing out," concluded Raelle. "It''s a huge loss and I can see you''re someone who isn''t used to losses. Think about the profits. Yanyan can be the biggest achievement of your life."

    Xia Zhao suddenly chuckled at her. Raelle was left looking at his handsome face that bloomed into a smile. Although she was a sucker for her husband''s beauty, she had to say this man was very handsome. She acknowledged mentally once again. He could make any one feel self-conscious just with that face of his alone.

    "And what makes you think I''m willing to let go?" asked Xia Zhao. "Why would I miss out and take a loss? Didn''t you just say I don''t take losses? I''m also a patient person. So what if I had to wait for so long? Aren''t I still here to waiting for her?" He took a pause and questioned, "I just have a question. By saying this, you are acknowledging that I''m the right person for your precious Yanyan?"

    "You''re alright," was her response.

    "Oh, thank you for thepliment," said Xia Zhao. "I heard how difficult it is to get apliment from Raelle Xiang. But I must say, you''re an adorable person."

    "Adorable?" repeated Raelle. "Why does everyone keep thinking thattely? No one associated that word with me before."

    "I think you''re always adorable," said Xia Zhao. "No one just dared to say it out loud."

    Raelle contemted it and didn''t argue about it.

 Chapter 1058: [Bonus chapter] Ill Help

    Chapter 1058: [Bonus chapter] I''ll Help"Stay for lunch," said Xia Zhao. "I''ll treat you to a feast today."

    "There is no need to bribe me," was Raelle''s response. "Didn''t I say I acknowledge you already?"

    "Can you even be bribed with food?" asked Xia Zhao.

    "No," replied Raelle.

    "Then?" he raised his brow at her and shook his head. "It''s just that you came to my house for the first time. I don''t want you to leave just like that. Let me cook something for you. Besides, since you acknowledged me, you''re my niece too. I should take care of my niece as the elder here."

    "If you insist,"mented Raelle.

    As he went to the kitchen Raelle followed him from behind. He opened the door to the back garden and Raelle found that there was a whole vegetable field there. She looked at the cute tomatoes hanging from the nts. They looked so red and juicy.

    "You have strange hobbies," said Raelle.

    Xia Zhao looked up at her, "Is that so?"

    "You''re living a retirement life way ahead of time," said Raelle. "This is why Yanyan says you don''t like putting in effort into life."

    "And what do you think?"

    "I think you have no challenge in life," was Raelle''s honest opinion. "So, instead of making your lifeplicated, you made it even simpler."

    "I enjoy this life," was his response. "It''s peaceful."

    "And this peacefulness is only disturbed when Yanyan is around," said Raelle thoughtfully. "So, she is the color of your life. I understand now."

    Xia Zhao let her think whatever she wanted. Not like she was wrong anyway. He walked into the kitchen with the fresh vegetables and started washing them.

    Raelle stood there and asked, "Do you need help?"

    "No," said Xia Zhao. "You sit over there. Don''te here. What if you get hurt?"

    Raelle was left staring at him as she thought how everyone held the same opinion that she was fragile. How could she get hurt in the kitchen when all of them were fine? Did it even make sense? She understood her family, what was wrong with Xia Zhao now? But suddenly thinking that since she acknowledged him as Yanyan''s partner, he was also family now, she let it be.

    She couldn''t convince anyone that she''d be useful in the kitchen anyway.

    So, she chose to sit aside obediently.

    "By the way, I don''t think you came to just talk about Yanzi," said Xia Zhao while working.

    Raelle thought about it before saying, "What if I want your help?"

    "Just say a word," he responded. "You don''t even need Yanzi''s link up to ask for help. Xia and Xiang families go long way back. I''d help just for that rtionship. And not only that, you alone are also enough. How can I not help Raelle Xiang?" He looked up at her, "Tell me, what can I do for you?"

    "I''m looking for a person," replied Raelle. "I need your help."

    "To find her?"

    Raelle shook her head, "No, she is dead. I want to know how she is associated with me."

    "She is associated with you and you don''t even know about that?" he asked in surprise.

    Raelle had to tell him everything she knew. She left out the connection between Chi Xirui and Xiang Weimin though. She didn''t think she needed to mention it. After all, that was Mu Chenyan''s concern. Her only concern was why Chi Xirui was connected to her.

    "Can you find out?" she asked. "I couldn''t find anything. Do you think you can?"

    "If you''re here, it means you trust in my capability," said Xia Zhao. "Don''t worry, I can find it out. Even if the person is in hell, I''d still find out something."

    "That sounds like you''re bragging."

    Xia Zhao smiled softly, "Well, couldn''t help it. But I wonder why me? Why didn''t you just ask Yanzi for help? She is quite amazing too."

    "I have my reasons."

    "Okay," since she didn''t exin. He didn''t ask any further either. It didn''t matter anyway. He just had to do what he was asked.

    Raelle pulled out Chi Xirui''s photo that she had and ced it on the counter, "That''s the only photo I have of her."

    Xia Zhao nced at the photo and nodded his head.

    "I''ll get back to you in two days," he said.

    Raelle gave him a look, "Can you really find it out in two days?"

    "I promise," he replied with confidence and Raelle didn''t doubt him either.

    "It''s my engagement party in two days. You can tell me then."

    "Alright."

    Raelle looked around at his peaceful house and heard the sound of wind chimes that seemed especially enchanting in this kind of a ce. "Uncle Zhao, I wanted to thank you for the pills you gave me."

    "I was just the delivery person," said Xia Zhao.

    "But I can''t find the person who gave the pills, so I can only thank you," she said.

    Xia Zhao thought about something and held up his hand saying, "Just a minute."

    Then she watched him going upstairs in a hurry and within minutes he came back dragging someone with him. Raelle was left looking at that figure dressed in ck attire and those signature green eyes.

    That person threw Xia Zhao''s hand away saying, "Uncle, don''t drag. You''re ruining my shirt." Then those green eyes settled on Raelle and a captivating smirk appeared on that handsome face, "Oh, and here I was wondering why were you so impatient. Hi, curious kiddo!"

    Xia Zhao walked up to the kitchen counter as he said, "You can say your thanks in person now. There is no need to go through the delivery man like me. I don''t deserve it anyway." Then he looked at his nephew saying, "Young Master Ru, Raelle is here to say thank you. Behave yourself."

    Young Master Ru looked at his uncle, "This young master''s manners are impable. Don''t ever doubt it." Xia Zhao made a face at him which showed how much he didn''t believe those words.

 Chapter 1059: Work Of Charms

    Chapter 1059: Work Of CharmsRaelle was actually not expecting to see this person here. Although she had the thought of finding this person, she actually didn''t think she''d find this person without looking.

    She watched as Young Master Ru patted his shirt right where Xia Zhao had held it as if he had sullied his shirt. After doing so, he came to sit beside Raelle on the high stool. In fact, he left the stool right beside Raelle and took a seat on the next one.

    All these movements fell into Raelle''s eyes and she looked at it in interest.

    "Thank you for the pills," said Raelle to Young Master Ru.

    Ru nced at her, "Pleasure is all mine to help."

    "Uncle Zhao, I thought you were alone at home."

    Xia Zhao was stirring the soup as he looked at Raelle. "I was." He then looked over at Ru as he added, "Then the cat you talked about dropped by."

    Raelle took the hint and recalled they heard some noise and she had thought it was because of a cat or wind. So, that was because of this person?

    Seeing how Raelle looked at him, Ru cleared his throat, "What cat? Have you ever seen a cat like this young master?"

    "Yes," replied Xia Zhao. "You have green eyes, you''re narcissistic, and you are always jumping around through the walls. You love to y the game of cat and mouse with people. What else? Oh, you love fish."

    Ru stared at him, "Uncle, fish is not the only thing I love."

    "You jumped in through the window?" asked Raelle as she picked up something from their conversation.

    While Ru avoided her eyes, Xia Zhao chuckled, "Our Young Master Ru doesn''t know how to walk in through the doors."

    "Hey, this Young Master still knows how to make a grand entrance." Then he stared at Xia Zhao, "Uncle, I left my peach wine with you. I couldn''t find it just now. Where did you ce it?"

    Xia Zhao''s hands paused and then said, "It''s gone."

    Ru jumped up from his seat, "What did you say?"

    "A good friend''s daughter likes good wine. She liked the peach wine, so I offered it to her."

    "You offered my wine? Mine?!"

    "It''s not like youck it,"mented Xia Zhao.

    "That doesn''t mean you can take my things."

    "Yes, it''s not good to take other people''s things without their permission," added Raelle in agreement with Ru.

    Both the uncle and nephew looked at Raelle.

    "See? Even a kid knows better than you!" was Ru''s argument.

    "You''re calling the wrong person a kid," said Xia Zhao. "By the way, since you''re here, why don''t you take Raelle''s pulse again? Just to confirm that your pills worked."

    "Look at her," said Ru. "Herplexion alone is enough to tell you that she is fine. Are you really doubting this young master''s ability?"

    "There is no harm in confirming it," argued Xia Zhao.

    Ru looked at Raelle who actually extended her wrist towards him without hesitation. Ru''s brow quirked up a little before he pulled out a silk handkerchief asst time and ced it on Raelle''s wrist before taking her pulse.

    "She is as good as new," was what he said after his hand left her wrist.

    "do you always carry that handkerchief with you?" asked Raelle. "I thought people don''t do that anymore. Especially the ones like yours with embroidery on the corners. Didn''t that only happen in thest century or something?"

    Ru looked at the white silk handkerchief in his hands and said, "Then you can say our n is still living in thest century."

    "Don''t lie to her so tantly," said Xia Zhao.

    Ru sighed, "I mean to say, our n has traditions that are old-fashioned. There are certain things in our roots we can''t let go of." He took a pause and added, "By the way, why are you here?" Then he looked at Xia Zhao, "Don''t tell me, Uncle you have gotten smarter and have finally figured it out that to get your girl, you need to get the people she cares about on your side."

    "Ru, talking about rtionships, doesn''t really suit you,"mented Xia Zhao.

    "Actually, I came to just see Uncle Zhao," said Raelle.

    "What''s there to see? Except for his face, there is nothing to see.

    "What a surprise then," started Raelle. "I happen to like good-looking people."

    Ru tsked at that. "Then you''re at the right ce. Our family''s genes are still very strong."

    "I can see," said Raelle. "Since I met you here, I''d like to invite you to my engagement party."

    "When is it?" asked Ru.

    "In two days," answered Raelle.

    Ru thought about something in silence for a while before his green eyes nced at Xia Zhao and a smirk appeared on that gorgeous face, "Your aunt would definitely be there, right?"

    "Yes," replied Raelle. "How can Yanyan not be there?"

    "Then this young master wille."

    Xia Zhao looked up at Ru. How could he not know his nephew''s thoughts? How could Ru even be interested in parties?

    "Then I''ll wait for you," said Raelle. "My Opa will be very happy to see you."

    "Hmmm... I need to tell Papa and grandpa as well that I''d seeing Xiang Tianyu. Anyway, congrattions!"

    "You''re one of the few rare perople who didn''t say that I''m already married why am I even getting engaged now," Raelle mentioned to him.

    Ru shrugged, "It''s your life. Who said you can''t get engaged after getting married? It''s your rtionship, you make the rules. Someone like me who has always broken the rules in life, I can only say, you go, girl!"

    Xia Zhao rolled his eyes at those words. But also had a slight smile on his lips. He could see that Raelle was veryfortable talking to Ru. He wasn''t surprised though. Even though Young Master Ru always kept people at a distance, Xia Zhao also knew he was capable of making people feel at ease around him. It was just one of his charms.

    And this charm certainly worked on Raelle the very first time they met.

 Chapter 1060: [Bonus chapter] Your Brother

    Chapter 1060: [Bonus chapter] Your BrotherHyson had been in a dilemma for days. No, it had nothing to do with his mother and theplicated rtionship that surfaced after his birth secret got revealed.

    It had more to do with his best friend.

    His best friend, Raelle was getting engaged. And he couldn''te up with what gift he should buy for her. What do you give people who have everything? He certainly couldn''t think of anything right now. He was about to lose all his hair from thinking these days.

    Even at the shooting set, during his breaks, his mind would wander off. And today was no different again.

    "Fai Ge, someone is here to see you," said his assistant and snapped him back to reality.

    Hyson looked up at his assistant and frowned, "Isn''t it just Chen again?"

    "No," answered the assistant. "It''s a tall man. Handsome. Very manly."

    "Are you done?" asked Hyson.

    The assistant blushed a little and nodded her head, "Sorry for getting distracted!" Composing herself, she added, "He said he is looking for you. And if I tell you that he is your brother, you''d know who he is."

    Hyson stood up once he heard that and looked at his assistant, "That''s exactly what he said??"

    "Yes," nodded the assistant.

    Hyson already knew who it was but still had a doubt. He ran towards the entrance of the studio. Since it was a closed production, outsiders were not allowed toe in. Especially after thest time when Hyson got photographed with He Rou.

    He looked at the back of that tall figure standing at the entrance and all his doubt was gone. It really turned out to be him!

    Hyson walked over and before Zhai Yanjun could be happy to see him, Hyson held his wrist and dragged him outside. "Which one is yours?" he asked.

    "What?" asked Zhai Yanjun looking lost.

    "The car!" retorted Hyson.

    "Oh," Zhai Yanjun responded in understanding and pointed towards his car.

    Hyson walked to it and said, "Unlock it."

    "Why?"

    "Do you wanna stand here to talk?" asked Hyson.

    Zhai Yanjun immediately unlocked the car and Hyson got in. Zhai Yanjun also got in since Hyson was already in. He couldn''t just stand outside as Hyson said.

    "Are you so eager to shout to the world that you''re my brother?" Hyson looked displeased.

    "Yes," was Zhai Yanjun''s response with his foolish smile that made Hyson want to smack his head. Oh, what the hell! Why was this brother older than him?! He couldn''t bring himself to hit this elder brother of his. It was against his teachings!

    He wasn''t a bear child with no manners, after all.

    "Then why don''t you go and announce it in news headlines that you''re my brother?" scoffed Hyson.

    "Can I?" asked Zhai Yanjun very seriously considering this suggestion and making Hyson exasperated.

    He wasn''t a bear child with no manners, after all.

    "Then why don''t you go and announce it in news headlines that you''re my brother?" scoffed Hyson.

    "Can I?" asked Zhai Yanjun very seriously considering this suggestion and making Hyson exasperated.

    Hyson raised his hands as if wanting to strangle him as he said, "What is wrong with you, Captain? Have you lost your mind? Whatever intelligence you had is also gone now. How can you even take my sarcasm seriously?"

    "Maybe because I seriously want to announce to the whole world that you''re my brother," was Zhai Yanjun''s response. "Fai, I''m very serious."

    "I know," replied Hyson.

    "I know you don''t wanna ept me as your brother," said Zhai Yanjun looking down.

    "Would I even be here if that was the case?" asked Hyson giving him a disdainful look. "I just don''t like that foolish look on your face. If you''re my brother, act smart. Don''t embarrass me."

    "I won''t," Zhai Yanjun raised his three fingers as he solemnly swore. "I''ll do everything you say. I''ll do everything to make sure that you''re not embarrassed. I''ll do my best to be a good brother. I''ll be anything you want me to be."

    Seeing him acting like this, even Hyson''s temper tantrum was gone and he actually felt sour. He always wanted to hide from Zhai Yanjun and stay away. Just because he didn''t want to put himself into Zhai Yanjun''s shoes to think for a moment and to understand Zhai Yanjun''s stance.

    But actually, he did understand. He understood very well what Zhai Yanjuncked in life and why he was so desperate for a brother. A family.

    "I hate you," grumbled Hyson as he avoided looking at Zhai Yanjun.

    Zhai Yanjun smiled at that, "It''s okay. I''ll do my best to make you like me." He rubbed Hyson''s head, "I''ll dote on your little brother. I promise. I can do better."

    Hyson pushed his hand away, "Who wants your doting? I''m already very loved. And who asked you to do better? Just be yourself. Don''t go around running like an idiot."

    "Okay. Whatever you say, goes!"

    "What are you doing here?" asked Hyson.

    "Didn''t I say I''lle to see you?" replied Zhai Yanjun. "How can I note? From the moment I learned you''re my brother, I felt like flying over here to see you just once. But I was held back because of the training and couldn''t escape. Now, that I have the chance here I am."

    "What''s the rush?" retorted Hyson. "We''d see each other in two days anyway. Besides, it''s not like you''re seeing me for the first time."

    "But it''s different," said Zhai Yanjun. "It''s very different this time," he emphasized. "Now, you''re my brother. My brother!"

    "Stong chanting, my brother, my brother again and again," Hyson was really baffled by this fool who was his elder brother. How did it even happen? Why did he get stuck with a fool as his elder brother? Where was the justice in this world? A little cutie like him and this fool?! Was it even a match?!

    "I can''t stop," giggled Zhai Yanjun making Hyson roll his eyes.

 Chapter 1061: Who Had It Worse?

    Chapter 1061: Who Had It Worse?"On a serious note, why are you here?" asked Hyson. "For real?"

    "Just because," replied Zhai Yanjun carelessly.

    Hyson felt a headacheing on, "Don''t tell me you actually just came to see me? It can''t be, right?"

    Zhai Yanjun looked at him and grinned, "I did."

    "You have nothing else to do here? You only came to see me?"

    Zhai Yanjun nodded his head.

    Hyson''s lips twitched when he was faced with this response. He felt like banging his head against the window but then again, why would he hurt himself? It was better to hurt this fool instead!

    "Captain, how about I apany you to the hospital?" asked Hyson.

    "What for?"

    "To get your brain checked up," replied Hyson. "I seriously think something is wrong with your brain."

    "If you''re apanying me, I''m willing to go," said Zhai Yanjun. "Even to the mental hospital!"

    "Why would I go to the mental hospital?" retorted Hyson as he leaned back his head and closed his eyes.

    Seeing him like this, Zhai Yanjun felt distressed. Especially when he noticed how Hyson''s eyes were a little puffy. He must have not been sleeping well these days.

    "You... Are you okay?" asked Zhai Yanjun. "Is it very tiring? Why don''t you stop being so hard on yourself? I am not interested in business, so dad''s business is all yours. You can have it. I don''t want to. You really don''t have to work so hard."

    Hyson suddenly opened his eyes and tilted his head to look at Zhai Yanjun who was speaking nonsense now. When did Hyson even agree to be his brother and now, he was even being asked to be a second-generation tyrant?

    "No?" asked Zhai Yanjun carefully when he saw how Hyson looked at him. He knew a little about Hyson''s self-reliant personality. "Then how about I ask dad to invest in movies for you? That way, no director can order you around and you can work at your own pace."

    "Are you really oblivious or you are pretending?"

    "Huh?"

    Hyson rolled his eyes, "My best friend''s name is Raelle. My godmother is Mu Chenyan. My Opa is Xiang Tianyu. How poor do you even think I can be? Do you really think I need your dad''s business or money? I have no such intention?" He took a pause and added, "I don''t often tell this to people but I''ll let you know. Ellie has taught me how to work with stocks. With my intelligence, it wasn''t all that difficult to master this trade. So, once I got my first pot of gold from stocks, I invested it all in my best friend. Do you know why?"

    Zhai Yanjun didn''t respond and just listened attentively because he knew it was something personal and something Hyson didn''t usually talk about or share with just anyone. He could just take it as he was special to his brother so he was being told all this.

    "Because investing in Ellie means, I never have to worry about my money sinking. In fact, I had to do nothing and I''d still be getting pots of gold every year. So, I don''t work harder, I work smarter! In a way, I made Raelle Xiang work for me and make me rich. Hahaha! Just thinking about it makes me feel aplished!"

    Seeing his cheeky smile, Zhai Yanjun chuckled. Then he rubbed Hyson''s head again, "Oh, my brother is indeed one of a kind. Sigh. I can''t lure you into my family even with my dad''s inheritance. It''s even more useless than I thought it was."

    Hyson was left seeing Zhai Yanjun''s disdain for his father''s inheritance.

    Other half-brothers were fighting over inheritance and didn''t even hesitate before killing each other and here were these two. Both didn''t want the inheritance and found it useless.

    "I''m not that easy to lure," said Hyson proudly. Was he someone who worshipped money? He had enough money by now. He didn''tck it even if he didn''t act like it, he was indeed very rich by now. And now, even his mother started sending him money.

    No, Yue Yue never stopped giving him pocket money all these years. Even when he started earning more than she did, he''d still take a portion of her money aside for her son''s expenses. And now that she started her own brand, Hyson really felt like his mother was throwing money at him. Whatever she earned, she was just throwing his way.

    "Are you free?" Zhai Yanjun''s question broke the train of Hyson''s thoughts and he looked at him.

    "Why?"

    "I thought you can show me around. I have never been here," answered Zhai Yanjun.

    "Am I a tour guide? I''ve only been working since I got here," replied Hyson. "I don''t even know what ces there are here."

    "It''s even better," was Zhai Yanjun''s response. "How about we find out together?" he suggested. "Let''s take a tour of the city?"

    "I don''t want to," grumbled Hyson. "I still haven''t thought about what gift to give to my best friend on her engagement. I can''t waste my time with you."

    "Aiyo, wouldn''t it be more productive to look around?" asked Zhai Yanjun. "That way, you might get more ideas about what gift you can give her. After all, it''s a real challenge to find something for Raelle. She doesn''tck anything."

    "Right? She even has the world''s best friend, what could she possiblyck at this point?"

    Zhai Yanjun pursed his lips and suppressed hisughter. Oho! This brother was really full of himself.

    Hyson thought about it for a minute and actually agreed with Zhai Yanjun''s suggestion. So, he said, "Wait for a minute." Then he texted his assistant to find out the time of his scenes. Knowing that he had the next scene only in the evening, he perked up, "Okay. Let''s go. I have a couple of hours to look around."

    "Great!" Zhai Yanjun happily agreed and started the car.

    Zhai Yanjun was actually fully prepared. He took Hyson to the ancient town in the city and wandered around. Then he took him shopping and they bought little trinkets that they found unique. Then Zhai Yanjun even found a noodle shop that had a century old history to feed his brother a good meal.

    Observing Hyson carefully, Zhai Yanjun finally asked, "Fai, do you really mind dad being with Ayi?"

    Hyson paused and didn''t reply.

    "Do you not like dad?" asked Zhai Yanjun further.

    "Me liking him or not won''t change anything," said Hyson.

    "But it does," said Zhai Yanjun. "Dad is very nervous to even see you since he found out that you''re his son. He is excited and distressed for days. I was really praying that he doesn''t get a stroke or something. This news really came out of nowhere for him. If you really don''t like him, I assure you that dad won''t even get close to Ayi."

    "But you want him to," Hyson pointed out.

    Zhai Yanjun pressed his lips together, "That''s because I have seen my dad suffering. I''m gonna be honest with you. For the longest time, I didn''t have a good rtionship with my dad. Only because he didn''t want to divorce my mother. And I really wanted them to get a divorce. That''s how tired I was of their rtionship. I never understood but for my sake, he kept dragging that marriage." He looked up at Hyson, "And more than him, I want it to work for myself. I have always dreamed of having a mother who genuinely loves me. And no one has offered that warmth of home to me as Ayi does."

    Hyson looked back at him. In fact, he knew all of this very well. His observation skills weren''t just hyped up. He was indeed very perceptive and could see things clearly. He understood Zhai Yanjun even better.

    "As I said before, me liking it or not, really doesn''t matter," said Hyson. "It really doesn''t. Because I''m just me. I, Yue Fai, have never felt the need for a father. Maybe I look pitiful to some people that I never had a father. But do you think I''m pitiful? Tell me honestly, do you?"

    Zhai Yanjun shook his head.

    Hyson smiled, "Indeed, because I am not pitiful. Maybe, at one point in my life, I was. But that''s long gone. I was in middle school and it was parents day. Do you know who entered the race of fathers with me that day? It was Yanyan. In all those men, she stood alone and tall. She didn''t care if she looked odd. So, when I say I don''tck anything, I mean it. But you... You''re different. You really docked a lot even if it seemed you had everything. So, I have been wondering which one of us really had it worse? You or me?"

    Hyson couldn''t really answer that because in his mind, he definitely didn''t had it worse than Zhai Yanjun.

    "I am gonna tell you only one thing. In my life, my mum''s happiness is above all for me. It always had been and it will be. So, no matter what choices she makes in her life, I''d never be the one to go against them. Never!"

    Zhai Yanjun understood it at that moment. It meant. No matter what happened, to Hyson only Yue Yue''s happiness mattered. Who or what she chose was all up to her. He won''te between her choices. Not at all.

 Chapter 1062: Serves You Right

    Chapter 1062: Serves You RightToday was a big day. It was the day of Raelle Xiang and Shui Xian''s engagement banquet. The whole city was stirred because of this engagement. Everyone in the upper-ss circle seemed to be talking about it and evenmon people were full of enthusiasm as they imagined how grand this engagement party would be.

    It had to be said that a week ago, the photographer teenager who captured the moment of Raelle''s proposal to Xian had actually posted an unusual photo on her photography ount. It was a picture of an invitation card. The invitation card had a sophisticated design and refined details. The calligraphy on the invitation card seemed to be a renowned master calligrapher.

    Yes, the photographer along with her group of friends were actually invited to Raelle and Xian''s engagement. Who decided that? Two people were behind it. Mu Chenyan and Shui Xian. Both wanted to thank these teenage girls who captured such a precious moment for them. After all, now they could officially put this moment in their history book. What if there was no proof? So, it was all possible because of these girls and they had to show their gratitude.

    Needless to say, the people invited to this engagement were elites and not just any aristocratic family. What did it mean? These girls invited a lot of envy because of this invitation.

    But there was one unbothered person in the middle of this all.

    And it was none other than, Raelle Xiang.

    Yup, she was still the unbothered queen who didn''t have any hand in arranging anything. And if it wasn''t for her impable memory and everyone around her reminding her every day, she''d have definitely even forgotten that today was her engagement day.

    Early in the morning, she went on her morning run with Shui Xian following behind her.

    "Baby, today is our engagement," said Shui Xian.

    "I know," responded Raelle. "Why do you feel the need to remind me of that every second of the day?"

    "No, I''m just saying... Do you have to go on a morning run on this day too?"

    "Staying away from my routine during my stay in the hospital was already my limit," was Raelle''s answer. "Just like you can''t leave your morning coffee, I can''t leave my morning run. It''s a ritual at this point."

    Shui Xian shrugged, "Okay. As long as you''re happy." Then his eyes fell on Coco and he rushed to its side.

    Raelle looked at his back but didn''t stop. She just let him have fun with someone else''s dog since they won''t be getting one of their own.

    "What are you looking at?" asked Raelle when she noticed Lin Zhen staring at her oddly.

    "Nothing. I just didn''t think I''d see you two here today," said Lin Zhen. It seemed he was also thinking like Shui Xian that just because it was their engagement today, they shouldn''t be on a morning run.

    "It''s just an engagement," was Raelle''s casual response. "Do I have to stop living for it?"

    Lin Zhen nodded, "Indeed. How can I forget that it''s you, Raelle Xiang? You''re the person who found an hour from your busy schedule to even finalize your marriage certificate formalities. It''d be really surprising if you changed and actually felt the need to stop doing everything else."

    "As long as you know," was Raelle''s response.

    After this morning''s run when they came back home, Raelle paused to see Mu Chenyan waiting for her at home. She gave her a look.

    "Yanyan?" called out Raelle. "What are you doing here so early in the morning?"

    "I''m here to take you with me," said Mu Chenyan.

    Shui Xian hurriedly held Raelle''s hand and pulled her behind him as he looked at Mu Chenyan vigntly. "Why? What for? You can''t take my wife!"

    Mu Chenyan gave him a look, "I''ve finally found reasons to like you, don''t make me question myself why I like a fool like you."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and retorted, "I''m only a fool for my wife. What is wrong with that?"

    Mu Chenyan gave him a disdainful look, "Did you just throw dog food at my face so early in the morning?"

    Before Shui Xian could say anything, Raelle spoke up, "You haven''t replied. Why are you here to take me?"

    "Technically, you should have been staying with us for these days. How can the bride and groom stay together before the wedding?"

    Raelle didn''t say anything but just kept looking at her.

    Mu Chenyan cleared her throat, "I know. You won''t be willing to leave his side. So, I''ve onlye here now. Come with me, I''ll help you get ready for the engagement party."

    "It''s still early for that," said Raelle.

    "No," said Mu Chenyan. "There is so much to do so. We hardly have any time. And I''m all alone. It''ll definitely take me longer."

    Raelle was silent for a moment before saying, "You can arrange a stylist team."

    Mu Chenyan gasped when she heard that and her lips trembled so dramatically as she looked at Raelle, "Elle, you don''t want your Yanyan anymore? You can actually bear those strangers touching you but you don''t want me? What did I do wrong?"

    "I know you''ve been tired these days," said Raelle calmly. "That''s why I said, I can bear with the stylist team. You don''t have to do it. Besides, you still must have a lot to do."

    "No way," said Mu Chenyan. "My answer is still the same. I have all the time in the world for you. Now, no arguments. Let''s get to work."

    "It''s still early," said Raelle once again. "I have to take a shower. I haven''t had my breakfast yet either."

    "I''ll feed you," was Mu Chenyan''s response. "With me around, have you ever gone hungry? How is that possible?"

    Seeing Mu Chenyan''s stance, Raelle knew she couldn''t get out of this. Only she was taking this day lightly. Everyone else seemed to be having different thoughts than her. She could only go along with it no matter how reluctant she was.

    As Raelle was about to leave, Shui Xian followed behind her like a tail which earned him a re from Mu Chenyan. "What is up with you? Where do you think you''re going?"

    "With my wife," answered Shui Xian matter-of-factly. "Xian is always there where his Raelle is."

    Mu Chenyan cringed, "You''re really not holding back, eh? Stop feeding me so much dog food. I won''t even feel like having breakfast in a while."

    Shui Xian smiled to himself when heard that.

    "Stay here. You''re not allowed to follow," ordered Mu Chenyan.

    "Why?" Shui Xian was aggrieved. "You can''t separate two people in love like this. It''s a sin. Heaven won''t even forgive you for it."

    Mu Chenyan''s lips twitched, "You''re really getting influenced by my dramatic self, eh?"

    "I have to follow your lead," he said. "You''re my role model, after all."

    Mu Chenyan hehe-ed at that and rolled her eyes at him un-ceremonially.

    "I said, stay. That means, just stay," said Mu Chenyan. "You''ll only be able to see Elle at the engagement banquet."

    "No way!" This time Shui Xian was really taken aback and strongly refused toply. "You can''t just take my wife away with you like this." He looked at Raelle, "Baby, say something!"

    Raelle met his pitiful eyes and blinked, "But you''re the one who said you want to do everything right on our engagement. So, you gotta wait now. Stay here and cultivate your patience!"

    Shui Xian was struck by those words because he vaguely recalled that he said the same thing to Raelle the other day when she wanted to drag him to the bedroom in broad daylight! He seemed to have shot himself. He should have known his wife would bring back his words to bite him one day. And see? He didn''t have to even wait that long.

    "Yes, cultivate your patience here," Mu Chenyanughed out loud and took Raelle with her.

    Although the distance between the two houses wasn''t far, Shui Xian certainly thought it was too far today as he watched his wife walking away from him without even looking back. Oh my! She didn''t look back at him once! How pitiful was he?!

    "Serves you right!" came Shui Koshing''s voice as he put down the newspaper and smiled at his son. Obviouslyughing at his miserable state.

    Shui Xian looked over at his father and said, "You are my father, are you sure about that?"

    "I told you, there is no doubt," replied Shui Koshing.

    "I really doubt it though," said Shui Xian. "If mom was alive, I''d definitely ask her if you''re really my father."

    "Unfortunately, she isn''t here to answer your questions," said Shui Koshing with a heavy tone. Shui Xian went quiet and lowered his head. Shui Koshing stood up and walked over to pat his shoulder, "I know you''re missing her very much on a day like this but you just have to remember that if she was around, she''d be the happiest to see you with Raelle."

    Shui Xian looked up with his slightly red eyes and nodded, "I know. It was one of her dreams to see me with Raelle."

    "Let''s go and see her today," suggested Shui Koshing. "We''ll let her see you on this special day. And get her blessings."

 Chapter 1063: I Refuse!

    Chapter 1063: I Refuse!"It''s your engagement. Why do you look so... Unwilling?"

    Shui Xian red at Cui Cukun. He didn''t even know what this guy was even doing here. And he was actually the first one to show up.

    "Unwilling?" Repeated Shui Xian. "Is something wrong with your eyes?" Without waiting for his response, he went on, "Oh, I forgot. You really do have something wrong with your eyes."

    Cui Xukun shrugged, "You can say whatever you want. I have understood you all too well. So, now I have stopped caring about your snarky remarks."

    "How very adaptable of you," snickered Shui Xian. "What are you even doing here?"

    "You invited me," reminded Cui Xukun with a grin. Actually, he was not expecting the invitation. Not at all. Not from Shui Xian at least. He thought he''d have to tag along his girlfriend. But to his surprise, he was given an invitation from Shui Xian.

    Imagine his shock and happiness. Just this gesture was enough to show that Shui Xian wasn''t as hostile towards him as before. And was even willing to associate with him.

    "You look way too pleased," said Shui Xian as he gave Cui Xukun a disdainful nce. "It''s just an invitation. Do you have to be so happy about it?"

    "It sure is a big deal to me," replied Cui Xukun. "And you know why."

    Shui Xian turned his head away, "I just called you to show you that I''m getting engaged. Hehe."

    Cui Xukun''s lips twitched when he heard that. He just realized that he was invited because this ex friend of his wanted to shove this into his face. Shui Xian wanted to show off.

    "Get in line, kid!" Said Shui Xian. "It''s not your time yet."

    Cui Xukun rolled his eyes, "Yes. How can Ipare with you? It''s your second marriage. And I have yet to get into this the first time. So, you do have the right to be proud. Although I don''t think there is a need for that."

    Shui Xian smacked his head, "Who asked you to talk about it on my engagement day? So what if it''s my second marriage? It''s my first engagement party, okay?"

    Shui Xian hmphed and looked away. He wasn''t lying. It was indeed his first engagement party. There wasn''t one when he got married to Tang Hebe back then. A lot of steps were skipped back then.

    But... He skipped everything with Raelle. So, now it was his time to make it all up. They had to start all over again and do everything right. He didn''t want to skip any step.

    "Congrattions, Xian!" Said Cui Xukun sincerely. "But I still have the same question. Why do you look so unwilling? I thought you''d be over the moon on this day."

    "I''m over the moon," said Shui Xian. "It''s just that... I have seen my wifey for the past 6 hours. Do you understand? 6 hours!!!! I''m about to lose my mind!"

    Cui Xukun was taken aback by this outburst that came out of nowhere. He didn''t know what expression to make as he looked at Shui Xian. He really didn''t know.

    "Bro, you okay? It''s just six hours," said Cui Xukun. "How clingy are you?"

    "Very," was Shui Xian''s answer. "I am very clingy. Very very clingy."

    "What are you? A dog?"

    "Do you think I''ll take that as an insult? Well, guess what? No way!" Responded Shui Xian. "I adore dogs. You know that well. Also, dogs are loyal. Very loyal. I love being around her. What is wrong with that?"

    Cui Xukun shook his head helplessly, "I thought you changed into a cat. After all, I heard so much about Master Xian''s aloof and cold demeanor. But I see that seeing is believing. Your spirit animal is still a dog. I don''t even know what to do with you?"

    "Who are you to question my spirit animal? I''m not a snake like you!"

    "How am I snake?"

    "Because you didn''t even hesitate before hissing at me and turning away."

    "Wow!" Cui Xukun rolled his eyes. "You''re marvelous!"

    "I know," Shui Xian turned cheeky. "Man, I thought I''d get to stick with my wife all day long since it''s our special day. Why did this day turn out to be so different than my imagination?"

    Raelle''s words were still running through his mind. ''Cultivate patience.''

    Heck with this bloody patience! He didn''t want to learn to be patient anymore. And he decided to never even use the word patience with his wife ever again. It was so not worth it. Definitely not worth it at all.

    In the end, he''d have to pay the price of his own words. He should learn to use his words wisely from now on.

    "Imagination is always rich," said Cui Xukun. "But the reality sucks. Haven''t you learned this? I think we entered the adult world for far too long to learn this lesson by now."

    "Are you here to talk nonsense with me?" Asked Shui Xian.

    "No, I''m here early to support you," said Cui Xukun. "By the way, didn''t you call for a stylist to get ready? It''s your day. You should shine. Or are you worried that you might overshadow your wife''s sparkle?"

    Shui Xian wanted to pinch him but this time around Cui Xukun got smarter and stepped back in time to avoid those evil hands. "Haha. You missed it."

    "Childish!" Remarked Shui Xian disdainfully.

    "No, that''s you!" Said Cui Xukun.

    "No one can overshadow my wife''s sparkle, you''ll see!" Said Shui Xian proudly.

    "Then Mister, have you thought about what if you couldn''t match her sparkle? What if people thought you don''t deserve her?"

    "Then they can get in line," said Shui Xian. "Because even I think I don''t deserve her."

    Cui Xukun was momentarily stunned to hear that from Shui Xian. He just stared at Shui Xian for a long while in silence. It was just that kind of a moment where he wasn''t sure how to react. Once again!

    And he could see that Shui Xian was being very honest right now. He couldn''t believe it though.

    His honest thoughts were that Shui Xian was too good for anyone. He was saying it with all his heart. Because he knew this guy since they were young. And because of that, he knew that Shui Xian was an amazing guy.

    One of the reasons he backed out so easily when Tang Hebe chose him was that, he knew it himself that Shui Xian was a better choice.

    He wasn''t belittling himself. He just thought his friend was awesome.

    "I don''t think so," said Cui Xukun. "Why do you even think this way? Even if we aren''t friends anymore, I still can give a guarantee for you. You are an amazing guy, Xian."

    "I know," replied Shui Xian. "But thanks for thepliment."

    Cui Xukun smiled a little at that and added, "I agree that Raelle is one of a kind girl but you don''t have to go so far that you start thinking you don''t deserve her. If you didn''t deserve her, her family wouldn''t have picked you for her. If you weren''t enough, Raelle Xiang wouldn''t have gotten on her knee to propose to you. Have some confidence."

    He patted Shui Xian''s shoulder in encouragement.

    Shui Xian''s lips curled up slightly as he gazed at him and said, "You have be eloquent."

    "I''m awyer," reminded Cui Xukun. "I have to be eloquent to earn money. I can''t just go around firing people and earn like you."

    "Can you speak human?" Retorted Shui Xian. And here he thought this guy was getting better. But no, he just had to ruin it for him. "You really get on my nerve."

    "As if you are any better," said Cui Xukun. "But guess what? It''s because we are the same that we were best of friends."

    "Not anymore though," said Shui Xian.

    "We''ll get there," was Cui Xukun''s response. "I have hope now."

    "Lose it."

    "I refuse!"

 Chapter 1064: Same Camp

    Chapter 1064: Same Camp"What are you both quibbling about?"

    Shui Xian and Cui Xukun turned around to look at Shui Koshing who was giving them a displeased look.

    "Are you two little kids? What''s the fuss all about?"

    Both of them stood at attention before him like two obedient little kids. Of course, it was just a pretense. Both of them were nothing even close to being obedient. Shui Koshing red at the two of them as his lecture continued.

    "Do you even realize where you are or what day it is?" asked Shui Koshing. "Is this the time to behave like naughty children?"

    "B¨¤, he started it," said Shui Xian as he pointed at Cui Xukun without any hesitation.

    Cui Xukun wasn''t even surprised at being pointed at like this. He turned to Shui Koshing, "Uncle, you can''t be biased here just because he is your son. I''m telling you, I didn''t do anything. I even came early to give him support. And see, how he is behaving."

    "Both of you can drop it," said Shui Koshing. "It''s not like I don''t know you two," he added. "You''re adults now. But nothing changed. You''re still the same two people whom I caught climbing over the wall of the school."

    Shui Xian and Cui Xukun looked around to see if anyone was around or if anyone heard this dark history of theirs. They were truly unlucky to run into Shui Koshing back then. Right when they climbed over the wall, theynded right in front of Shui Koshing who wasing to meet Shui Xian''s teacher at school.

    Needless to say, it didn''t end well.

    "Xian, stop always dumping everything on Xukun. You''re my son. Don''t always assume, I''m blind. And you, Xukun, if you''re here to support your friend, stop ticking him off with your words. He is already cranky."

    "I can tell," said Cui Xukun. "I just didn''t think in just 6 hours, he lost his mind."

    Shui Koshing snickered, "6 hours? He lost it in 5 minutes! I had to bear with him for the rest of the 5 hours and 55 minutes!" He looked at Shui Xian, "You let Raellee, I''m gonna tell her what have you been up to today. I''ll also tell her how you almost ate my brain in these hours without you. When did you be so dramatic?"

    "I married a girl from the Xiang family. There are two dramatic people in that family. One is Mu Chenyan and the other is Yue Fai. I had to learn from them to blend in easily."

    Shui Koshing rolled his eyes at his son. He did not think he''d see such a day.

    "Does it work?" asked Cui Xukun curiously. "To impress Ms. Mu Chenyan?"

    "Heh! As if I''ll tell you my secret," said Shui Xian haughtily.

    "Hey! You can help a friend in need sometimes." Cui Xukun tugged at his arm. "I''ll lend you, my stylist."

    "You know a stylist? What for? Aren''t you awyer?"

    Cui Xukun shrugged, "Why does that matter?"

    Shui Koshing smacked their heads and walked away saying, "Congrattions. You found amon point to bond over now. Don''t make me hear you quibbling again. It''s a happy day. Don''t make me beat you two."

    Shui Xian and Cui Xukun looked at Shui Koshing''s back before turning to look at each other.

    "B¨¤, where are you going?" called out Shui Xian.

    "My stylist is here," replied Shui Koshing.

    Cui Xukun pfft-ed while Shui Xian was left gaping at his father''s back.

    "Xian, you''re so behind,"mented Cui Xukun as heughed happily. "Even Uncle has a stylist. What are you dawdling for? Come with me! We need to make you stand out. What if you looked like a guest at your own engagement party?"

    "That isn''t possible," said Shui Xian. "My face value is very high. It''s enough to cover up the minor ws of my styling. My wife likes my face."

    "She''ll like you more if you put in some more effort," was Cui Xukun''s argument.

    "You just want to know how I made my way into Mu Chenyan''s heart."

    "I don''t think you''re just there yet," responded Cui Xukun. "But you''re doing better than me."

    "And me," came another voice from behind. Both of them saw Zhai Yanjun walking over. He looked at Shui Xian and said, "At this point, I should wonder, which son-inw has it better?"

    "You don''t have to. Xian has the advantage ofing first," said Cui Xukun. "It''s so hateful."

    Shui Xianughed smugly at these two miserable souls. Oh, how it felt good tough at others'' misery. He only understood it today.

    "You''reters,"mented Shui Xian. "How is it my fault? In matters of heart, you shouldn''t wait for so long. There is no need in beating around the bush. Just go for it. If you''re a step behind, someone else will take advantage of your hesitation."

    "Mr. Love Guru, shut up!" said Cui Xukun and Zhai Yanjun simultaneously.

    They were both pissed off at Shui Xian right now. They were in the same camp right now while Shui Xian was in the opposite camp. After all, they both had a long way to go before getting the approval of Mu Chenyan and it was impossible to get their girlspletely before getting that approval.

    Zhai Yanjun had it better than Cui Xukun though since Zhai Yanjun had the backing of Yue Yue. Mu Chenyan won''t go hard on him. At least, she couldn''t show her hostility tantly to him because of Yue Yue''s presence. But Cui Xukun had no backing at all. So, he had to suffer under Mu Chenyan''s intimidation every time she even looked at him.

    It was so scary.

    This showed how important it was to have a strong backing in this world. Yes. It was very important. And the only one he could look for was Shui Xian right now. Cloe made it clear to him that Mu Chenyan was family and she respected that woman a lot. So, her approval was very necessary. How else would he even propose?

    "You both seem to have a long way to go,"mented Shui Xian. "I should stay away from you two lonely souls. You don''t understand the feeling of having a wife. A legally wedded wife!"

    Shoving it in their faces childishly, he walked away with a swagger.

 Chapter 1065: Still Wont Leave

    Chapter 1065: Still Won''t Leave"How long is it gonna take?" asked Raelle for the umpteenth time today. She only realized now why Mu Chenyan said they didn''t even have enough time to get ready. She was getting a whole spa treatment from Mu Chenyan.

    Right now, Mu Chenyan was styling her hair as she said, "It''s almost done. Don''t be in a hurry."

    At moments like these, one could really see how multi-talented Mu Chenyan was. All for the sake of providingfort to Raelle.

    "I don''t know why but today, my mind is recalling the old times," Mu Chenyan suddenly brought up the topic. "Remember, you''re only three and I took you to a salon but you refused to let anyone touch you there except for me. Sigh. How would you remember, you were so young back then." Mu Chenyan smiled to herself as she remembered these old memories that had been kept very close to her heart all this while. She couldn''t seem to forget the adorable little girl that Raelle was.

    Adorable even with her nk face.

    Back then, Mu Chenyan actually didn''t mind Raelle''s nk face all that much. After all, no matter what Raelle still looked like a cutie with her pinchable cheeks.

    "And then you took the scissors to cut my hair," added Raelle. "I looked like a dog chewed on my hair."

    Mu Chenyan coughed unnaturally. "It was my first time doing it. Why do you not forget that? Whenever I talk about the first haircut I gave you, you just have to ruin my nostalgic journey with that onement."

    "I''m sorry but I can''t forget it," replied Raelle. "You''ll have to bear with me because I''m gonna keep reminding you of that incident till the end of time."

    Mu Chenyan sighed helplessly, "Okay, go ahead! Do whatever you want."

    "These words of yours hadn''t changed over the year," said Raelle. "You used to tell me to do whatever I want back then and you''re telling me to do the same even now."

    "It''s because I have faith in my Elle," was Mu Chenyan''s response. "I know that whatever you do will be the right thing. I can make the wrong choices but not you."

    "This blind faith of yours is the reason I despise troublesome things. Who asked you to make my life easier than it was necessary? If you had let mepromise early on, I wouldn''t have to trouble you with everything."

    Mu Chenyan chuckled, "Compromise? Nah! I, Mu Chenyan don''t have such a word in my dictionary. But life really taught me its meaning with time. That''s why I was damn sure I was never gonna let youpromise in life." She took a pause as she looked at the top of Raelle''s head. "But I think I still failed a little. My Elle had to learn aboutpromise early on when she was making her career choices."

    "You''re wrong," said Raelle. "What I did was notpromise. It was making better life choices."

    Mu Chenyan shook her head slightly at that. She turned around the chair to look at Raelle and nodded in satisfaction, "Okay, you''re done!"

    "Really?"

    "Wait."

    "What now?"

    "I forgot your heels," said Mu Chenyan sheepishly.

    "You go and get ready," said Raelle. "I''ll find the heels myself. Just go now. Stop wasting time."

    "Alright, alright. I''m going. Geez! I can''t believe you''re throwing me out once the job is done."

    "Yanyan."

    Mu Chenyan smiled at her and wanted to stroke her cheek but she couldn''t ruin the make-up. Then she wanted to touch her head but couldn''t because of the hairstyle. Finally, her handnded on Raelle''s shoulder as she said, "My baby is looking so dazzling that I''m afraid people will die of envy." Raelle just stared at her gushing but didn''t respond. "Maybe I should cut off the lights in the banquet hall. You''re so gorgeous. I''m sure you''ll alone be able to lighten up the world."

    "Can you stop exaggerating?" asked Raelle.

    "Who is exaggerating? I''m telling the truth."

    "Yanyan, you''re still here."

    Mu Chenyan sighed and left the room reluctantly.

    Raelle unknowingly took a deep breath when she saw that Mu Chenyan finally left. It was truly baffling how Mu Chenyan could spend hours just gushing over her. Raelle looked at her reflection in the mirror and nodded her head in satisfaction. She agreed that she looked beautiful but she didn''t think it was necessary for Mu Chenyan to keep talking about it for hours.

    She looked at the time and saw that it was almost 7 hours since shest met Shui Xian. Oh, she hadn''t even heard his voice since this morning. That was something rare.

    She suddenly had the urge to actually know what he was doing.

    And she even took out her phone but suddenly recalling how she asked him to cultivate patience today, she decided to take that advice seriously. This was a good way to teach him a lesson so that he could never tell her the same ever again.

    "If you wanna call, just call," came a voice from behind her. "When did you be so indecisive?"

    Raelle put down her phone and turned her head to look behind her. Seeing Hyson waving at her with his bright toothy grin, Raelle turned back her head.

    Hyson walked around and sat right in front of her and waved at her again but when she didn''t respond yet again, he gaped at her in disbelief.

    "Ellie, do you need a doctor for your eyes?" asked Hyson. "Oh my! You really can''t see me? I''m so tall and handsome! How can you possibly not see me here?"

    "I don''t think I need to see you," replied Raelle.

    "Am I being dethroned?" asked Hyson in shock. "You''re actually gonna act like you don''t see me? I am no longer important? It should be friends over sex. Not the other way around."

    Raelle gave him a look, "Scram!"

    Hyson stuck his tongue out at her, "Today, even if you kick me out, I still won''t leave!"

 Chapter 1066: [Bonus chapter] Looking Forward

    Chapter 1066: [Bonus chapter] Looking Forward"As if before this whenever I told you to scram, you really did," said Raelle. "You have never been that obedient. You and I both know that."

    Hyson smirked at that, "But then aren''t you the same? Everyone thinks you''re obedient too. But you and I both know how much of a lie that is. There is no one more scheming than you around here. Your obedience wasn''t any different than mine."

    "Isn''t that why we are still here together?" asked Raelle. "Didn''t you say you''de straight to the banquet hall?"

    "I changed my mind," replied Hyson. "I wanted to see you first." Then he pulled her up from the lounge chair and made her stand up before him. He even made her twirl for him. He was really doing whatever he wanted without any obstructions. It showed how Hyson was allowed to do whatever he wanted and no one would stop him. Not even Raelle.

    He tapped his chin in satisfaction once he was done looking.

    "Like what you see?"

    "If I didn''t, I wouldn''t have insisted on being your friend," was Hyson''s response. "You''re not the only one who likes pretty faces. I''m the same." Taking a pause, he said, "You look breathtaking, Ellie."

    "I know."

    Hyson rolled his eyes at her response. "Can you be a little less narcissistic for today?"

    "No!"

    Hyson sighed, "Whatever. Where are your heels?"

    Raelle looked around saying, "I was gonna look for the heels. Well, there is still time. I''ll find themter."

    Hyson shook his head at her and went around looking for her matching heels. He found the heels beside the dressing table. He took them and went to Raelle''s side. He kneeled down in front of her and extended his hand. Raelle naturally put her foot in his hand as he put on her heels for her attentively. His movements were practiced and smooth.

    He was only satisfied after she was all ready.

    "Now, nothing is missing," said Hyson.

    "What about you?" asked Raelle. "Aren''t you gonna get ready?"

    "I was born ready, baby!"

    "Want a beating?"

    Hyson coughed, "No. Not today. You should be nice for one day. It''s a special day."

    "I don''t want to be nice," said Raelle. "And why do you keep looking at me? It''s not the first time you''re seeing me."

    Hyson smiled at her, "I''m just a little nostalgic. It feels like yesterday that you and I crossed paths on a road we both didn''t know. Today, you''re getting engaged. I feel like the time just flew away."

    Raelle looked at his expression and said, "What is wrong with you all? I''m already married. Why are you even acting like this? What''s with this trip down the nostalgiane today?"

    Hyson sighed at her, "Ellie, you just don''t understand. It''s hard to describe our feelings. Although you''re married, it didn''t feel like much when that happened. We were all pretty chill back then. In fact, I only knew you got married when you sent me the pictures from right outside the Civil Affairs Bearue." He took a pause and added, "But it''s different this time around. And since it''s different, it brings out different feelings too. Stopining. And let us all do what we want to and feel what we want to. It''s not like you have to pay for our feelings."

    "Can I pay you to stop these feelings?" asked Raelle.

    Hyson gave her a disdainful look, "You''re putting a price on our feelings? How offensive!" Then he rubbed his nose and asked in a lower voice, "How much are you paying though?"

    Raelle didn''t even want to talk to him anymore and turned her head away.

    "Did Yanyan tell you?" asked Hyson.

    "About what?"

    "About whether Justin is really Weimin Ge''s son or not? And if yes, then how? what exactly when wrong?"

    Raelle looked at him and responded, "She isn''t telling me anything. But I think we''ll find out today."

    Hyson rubbed his hands, "Oh, we have something to look forward to."

    "I thought you were here for my engagement. Clearly, I was wrong," said Raelle.

    Hyson shrugged, "Clearly, you didn''t want me to look forward to your engagement. So, I''ll find some other entertainment for myself." Then he added, "Also, what''s there to look forward to about your engagement? Do I look like I''m here to see you spreading dog food with Xian Ge? Well, guess what? No!"

    Raelle gave him a look, "Traitor."

    "You''re no better," Hyson threw back at her. "You''re the one who chose love over friendship. I decided to follow your lead. As always. I''m just following you."

    "You? You''re actually following me?" asked Raelle. "Is your memory malfunctioning? Let me remind you clearly how it was always who made me follow your whims."

    "And eventually, you''re the winner," Hyson shot back again. "If my whim is to go eat ice cream then you have to make me eat the vor of your choice. So, who is the winner? Clearly, you!"

    Raelle didn''t respond to that since she couldn''t deny it at all.

    "This is why I said you''re more scheming because you really know how to y this game."

    "Then you should have learned better from me."

    "I think I''m good for now."

    "Suit yourself," said Raelle. "You''ll be seeing your father today. How are you feeling?"

    "It''s not the first time," replied Hyson.

    "But it''s the first time he is aware of the fact that you are his son," reminded Raelle. "Now, that I think about it. It seems there is really a lot to look forward to on my engagement."

    Hyson chuckled at her words, "Did you just notice?" Shaking his head, he added, "Man, I tried so hard to push Captain away but he keeps running back, trying to worm his way into my life."

    "Then there is no need to even ask, he is definitely your brother. Even his tactics are the same as yours."

    "Hey, I didn''t worm my way into your life like this," argued Hyson.

    "Nope, it''s exactly the same. The only difference would be that your shamelessness knew no bounds. I think Zhai Yanjun can''tpete on that with you yet."

 Chapter 1067: For A Year

    Chapter 1067: For A Year"It''s my engagement and I still have to stand here as a door god to wee the guests?" asked Shui Xian in dissatisfaction.

    "I think it''s really too much to ask Xian to do something like that," agreed Cloe as she came over. She looked at Shui Xian and nodded her head, "Master Xian is looking handsome."

    Cui Xukun stepped over and blocked her view saying, "Babes, you look at me instead."

    "Really, Kun?" asked Cloe as her lips twitched.

    "Yes, Really." Cui Xukun didn''t want to risk it at all this time around. He already lost his first love to Shui Xian, he didn''t want to lose another one. Although he was very clear about Cloe, he still didn''t want her to admire Shui Xian''s looks. Then he looked at Shui Xian, "It''s better if you stand inside. If you stayed to wee the guests, who know how many women you''re gonna charm with that face of yours? And what if it started a fight? I think the safe option is to let you stay inside."

    "I don''t charm people," retorted Shui Xian.

    "Yes, you do," said Cloe. "Are you forgetting that it''s that face that really made Chief stay in the first ce? I tell you, I went on all her blind dates with her. She had never been that amodating to anyone as she was with you from the beginning. All because your face was to her liking. And you should know by now that when Raelle Xiang likes something, she can be patient and she can also put extra effort into getting that thing."

    Zhai Yanjun chuckled softly, "Xian, I told you once that your face is gonna bring you trouble. I didn''t think this face would be your blessing."

    Shui Xianughed heartily at that. "My mom used to say that with this face, I''ll get the world''s best partner. I think she was right."

    "She was always right, no?" asked Zhai Yanjun. "It''s just that you''re stubborn and rebellious enough to not take her words seriously."

    "Are we really gonna have this conversation on this day?" asked Shui Xian as he turned to walk inside. "I''m going to the waiting room. There is no way, I''m gonna act as the door god for anyone. Apart from my Raelle, I refuse to wait for anyone else! No one can make me wait for them here."

    "Oh, really?"

    Shui Xian stopped in his track when he heard that voice.

    "You''re not gonna wait for me either?"

    Shui Xian cursed under his breath and slowly turned around with a bright and ttering smile on his face as he looked at Mu Chenyan, "Yanyan, how can you be counted on everyone else? You are Mu Chenyan. Your status is different. I can wait as long as you want, for you."

    "Lose that ttering smile," said Mu Chenyan as she entered the hall. She was dressed in a ck dress with a golden lining. Seeing her dressed in a dress was a different experience. Usually, Mu Chenyan really avoided wearing dresses because it wasn''t easy to fight in such clothes. But today, she really looked like the elegantdy that she always pretended to be in front of Raelle.

    Her disposition was naturally noble and lofty.

    "Yanyan, where is Raelle?" asked Shui Xian as he followed her.

    Mu Chenyan was inspecting the arrangements and didn''t want to really chit-chat but seeing the urgency on Shui Xian''s face, she smiled at him teasingly, "How impatient are you, son-inw?"

    "How can I help it?" he asked in return. "They say one day without her is like three years. It''s been so many hours since I haven''t seen her. You know what that means? It''s like I haven''t seen her for a year now."

    Mu Chenyanughed at that and patted his shoulder, "I suddenly feel like you''re bing more pleasing to my eyes. You''re getting as dramatic as me. I''m impressed."

    "Oh, thanks," Shui Xian smiled shyly at her making herugh deeper.

    "Just so you know, she is already here," replied Mu Chenyan.

    "Huh?" Shui Xian was dumbfounded when he heard that. "What? When? Where? How?"

    "She came with me. Of course, I know. She entered through the side door so you didn''t see her. She is in the waiting room."

    "Why didn''t you say so earlier?" Shui Xianined and then ran away in a hurry.

    Mu Chenyan looked at his hurried back and shook her head, "This guy wasn''t a fool when I chose him for my Elle. How did he be like this?" Rubbing her chin, she nodded, "It seems my Elle is very capable."

    Mu Chenyan looked at the grand hall which was a dazzling sight right now. The smell of the fresh flowers lingered in the air but it wasn''t overpowering. She walked around the hall inspecting every single detail carefully. She walked through all the tables and then went to see the food arrangements.

    She was walking through the corridor when she saw Xia Zhao walking over with a few people following him. He stood at the front with a solemn expression. His steps seemed unhurried but the people behind him seemed to be struggling to keep up with his pace. For a moment, Mu Chenyan didn''t look away.

    Xia Zhao also looked at Mu Chenyan and stopped in his steps. A man behind him wiped the sweat from his forehead subtly when Xia Zhao stopped walking. The men behind him looked at Xia Zhao who inexplicably stopped and then followed his gaze. When they saw Mu Chenyan on the other side of the corridor.

    Then they saw his lips slowly curling up and they inexplicably took a step back.

    Xia Zhao walked towards Mu Chenyan and came to stand before her, "Yanzi!"

    Mu Chenyan narrowed her eyes at him as she said, "It''s not the time for the engagement party to begin yet. Aren''t you here early?"

    Xia Zhao paused and touched the tip of his nose before saying, "I guess I am early."

 Chapter 1068: [Bonus chapter] This Block Of Wood

    Chapter 1068: [Bonus chapter] This Block Of WoodMu Chenyan looked at the people who were still waiting there and sneaked around to look their way but still pretended to be nonchnt. She had a hunch, so she asked, "This is your hotel?"

    Xia Zhao rubbed his nose and coughed unnaturally, "Yes?"

    "Why didn''t you tell me earlier?" asked Mu Chenyan. "You''re telling me I missed out on a chance to rip you off with a big discount?"

    Xia Zhao smiled at that, "Should Ipile the list of all my businesses and assets and give it to you?"

    "What? Are you writing a dowry list now?" she joked.

    "If you want me to, why not?" was his response which made her smile freeze. And seeing the sincerity on his face, she suddenly took a step back. She didn''t even know why she did it but she felt like that sincerity was overwhelming. His tone had a different feeling than before. She knew he was always serious when he talked about taking responsibility. But right now, it didn''t seem like he was just talking about responsibility.

    This was too baffling to her.

    "What''s next? You''re gonna write those industries under my name?"

    "If you want it," he said. "Everything of mine is yours if you want it. Myself included."

    Mu Chenyan gaped at him in disbelief before a smile crept up on her lips and she said, "What if I want to exclude you from the package and take everything else?"

    "Although that''d hurt, we can still make this deal," was his response.

    Mu Chenyan tsked at that, "You''re so boring. You really can let go of all that money you worked hard for?"

    "You and I both know that money has never been my favorite," replied Xia Zhao.

    Mu Chenyan rolled her eyes at him. But she knew he wasn''t being pretentious. His life style was really simple. One of the most random gifts from his grandparents was already a priceless treasure. So, the value of money was different for him. It''s not like they came from families where money was everything.

    "I don''t want it," said Mu Chenyan. "I don''t even know what to do with my own money. What am I gonna do with yours? Burn it?"

    "Burn it," he replied. "Just make sure, you''re safe in the process."

    Mu Chenyan was left speechless for a moment and said, "Why are you doing this today?"

    "What?"

    "Whatever you''re doing," she said. "Stop it. I''m not used to it. It''s making it difficult for me to yell at you."

    "Okay, I''ll stop," said Xia Zhao. "Tell me, what you''re doing here? Is there anything I can do for you?"

    "I can do it myself," she said.

    "I know," he replied. "I know you can do everything yourself but I''m just letting you know that I''m here. So, use freebor. It won''t hurt you."

    "How can I make Master Xia Zhao work as freebor for me?"

    "If I''m willing to work, why aren''t you willing to let me work?"

    Mu Chenyan pointed behind him at the men who were almost losing their minds seeing their boss talking to a woman over there. "I think your subordinates might get a heart attack if they saw you working for me as freebor."

    "Then they''ll just have to get used to it," said Xia Zhao. He took a pause and added, "Why are hesitating so much today? You actually have been using me a freebor since we were young. Are you forgetting that you even made me act like your horse and rode on me?"

    Mu Chenyan suddenly turned thoughtful and nodded her head with a meaningful expression, "Hmm... Riding was fun."

    Xia Zhao''s eyes widened when he heard those words with that expression of hers, "Yanzi! Get your head out of the ditch!"

    "What? I''m just saying it was fun," she said again trying to look very innocent but her eyes were betraying her badly.

    He covered her eyes with his hand and took a deep breath. Then he leaned closer to her ear and said, "You better stop looking at me with those eyes of yours."

    "Why?"

    "Why? Do you still have the nerve to ask? You''re practically undressing me with that gaze," said Xia Zhao. "Don''t think I don''t know what goes in that brain of yours."

    Mu Chenyan held his hand and pulled it down from her eyes as she smiled at him, "You''re not even a virgin anymore. Why are you still so shy? We are old now. You should really get over it."

    "You''re looking for trouble," hemented.

    "When have I not?" she retorted as she quirked her brow at him.

    Xia Zhao took a deep breath and said, "You should pay attention to the engagement. I''ll see you after that."

    "Why? Why not now?"

    "Because I don''t want you to miss out," he replied. "I have a few matters to deal with it. I''ll be at the engagement party on time. Don''t forget to call me if you need help. You can call me even if you don''t want help. I don''t mind." Mu Chenyan was rolling her eyes at him when he leaned over. His face came closer to hers and Mu Chenyan froze. His hot breath hit the side of her neck as his low voice entered her ear, "I almost forgot to mention that you''re looking beautiful today."

    With that, he stepped back. Satisfied with her stunned look, he tapped her nose and turned around to leave. Mu Chenyan was left looking at his back and ced a hand on her chest. "What the fuck! Who taught this block of wood how to flirt? And why is my steel heart even falling for his corny words?" She patted her chest, "You can''t be this weak, hearty! He is the heartless one. You have to remember that at all times!"

    She couldn''t believe that she was actually moved by those words.

    But the truth was something even she knew deep down.

    It wasn''t the words that worked.

    It was the person who said those words.

    She punched the air in exasperation before she went to do her business.

 Chapter 1069: Let Me See Her

    Chapter 1069: Let Me See HerShui Xian thought he''d be finally seeing his wife. But as soon as Hyson stepped in his way, Shui Xian realized how wishful his thinking actually was.

    If it was anyone else, it''d have been possible to get past but Hyson? Shui Xian could only sigh.

    "Fai, you''re here," said Shui Xian trying to keep up a pleasant smile on his face. He had to maintain this smile right now, no matter how impatient he was, he couldn''t offend this little prince.

    "Xian Ge, you sent your private ne for me," reminded Hyson. "How could I not be here?"

    Shui Xian continued to smile, "Well, how can I let you miss out on such an important day? It''s impossible to have this engagement party without you. You''re more important than the rings for the ceremony."

    Hyson chuckled at that, "Xian Ge, you don''t have to do this. I''m in no need for buttering today."

    Shui Xian cleared his throat and stared at him, "Raelle is inside?"

    "Yes," answered Hyson as he looked at the open door behind him. The door was open but one couldn''t see what or who was inside because a screen was ced in the way.

    "Then can I go in?" Asked Shui Xian as he blinked his eyes at Hyson.

    "Not so easy," said Hyson. "With me around, you can''t go in that easily."

    Shui Xian could only take in a deep breath. He had expected this from the moment he saw Hyson standing at the door.

    "Why are you all doing this to me today? I just want to see my wife," Shui Xian was really having it rough today. This was supposed to be a happy day but why had he been unhappy since morning? Nothing was going his way. Was it really so difficult to expect a sweet time with his beautiful wife on THEIR engagement day?

    Hyson pursed his lips seeing this and then he burst outughing. When he heard that Shui Xian had been waiting for Raelle all day, he thought he''d mess around with this brother-inw, but who knew this brother-inw was already suffering enough on this day? Hyson didn''t know why but suddenly felt bad for Shui Xian.

    "Xian Ge, you''re really having it rough, eh?"

    "You think so?" Retorted Shui Xian.

    Hyson was still thinking when Cui Xukun and Zhai Yanjun appeared behind Shui Xian along with Cloe. But unlike the boys, Cloe was able to walk right past Hyson and entered the room where Raelle was.

    "This..." Shui Xian looked at this and felt like his breath was stuck in his chest or something. He couldn''t take this discrimination anymore! This was too much! Too much!

    "Fai, just let Xian go in before he loses his mind," said Zhai Yanjun in support of Shui Xian. He didn''t want to help but thinking about Shui Xian helped him a lot, and he still spoke up.

    "Xian Ge seems to be on the verge of a mental breakdown,"mented Hyson as he noticed Shui Xian''s condition. "But Ge, why are you taking it so hard? It''s been just a few hours."

    "Not just a few hours," insisted Shui Xian. "Why don''t you guys understand that I want to see her right now! I want Raelle to be with me on this day. She just has to stay in front of my eyes."

    "You should let him go inside."

    All of them turned to look at who said it. When Hyson''s eyes fell on that figure, his eyes lit up.

    "Ghost!"

    "You know if you''re looking for a nickname for me. This young master would prefer being called the Tree god!"

    Hyson chuckled as he looked into those green eyes.

    Dropping that topic, Ru said, "Let Master Xian go inside. Keep his wife in front of his eyes as he said so."

    "How can it be so easy?" asked Hyson. "He still hasn''t passed my test." Hyson took out his phone and passed it to Shui Xian. "Considering that I''ve always liked you. And also that you even sent your private ne just to get me. I''ll go easy on you. Solve this puzzle and you can go inside."

    Shui Xian didn''t take the phone as his eyes were still on Ru''s figure. Ru on the other hand took the phone from Hyson and solved the puzzle before giving it back to Hyson. "It''s done. Let him in now."

    Hyson looked at the solved puzzle without saying anything. This puzzle was made by Raelle. Although Hyson knew it wasn''t exceptionally difficult, it was only in Raelle''s words. For the rest of them, it was certainly a difficult one. Even he''d have to spend a lot of time on it.

    "Can I go in now?" asked Shui Xian.

    "But Xian Ge, you didn''t solve it," said Hyson.

    "You didn''t say he couldn''t take help," said Ru. "Master Xian, you can go inside. If he goes back on his words, I''ll hold him back. This young master doesn''t mind lending you a helping hand."

    "Young Master Ru," called out Shui Xian. "Thank you!"

    Ru shrugged carelessly as he watched Shui Xian go inside.

    Hyson turned to Ru, "What are you doing here? And why did you help him?"

    "I think you''re smart enough to see that something is wrong with your brother-inw," said Ru. "If you kept him out for any longer, he''d really start having a panic attack. Didn''t you notice how his eyes moved when he couldn''t see his wife? He is panicking. You should give him a break, kid."

    With those words, Ru fixed the cuffs of his shirt and turned to leave.

    Hyson waited for a second before he ran after him.

    "You didn''t tell me why you''re here," said Hyson.

    "This young master is invited to the engagement," answered Ru casually. "Besides, this is my uncle''s hotel. I can walk in whenever I want."

    "Do you know Xian Ge?" asked Hyson suspiciously.

    "You can say that," replied Ru.

    Hyson had a thoughtful look on his face as he asked, "Can we sit down and talk? I have important things to ask."

    Ru stopped walking and turned to look at him, "You want to know why Master Xian was having it so rough? It''s simple. Do you think the miscarriage of your best friend only affected her? No. It scared him even more. Not knowing where his wife is or not seeing her for longer periods of time makes him insecure and scared. That''s exactly why his reaction today was so exaggerating."

    Hyson was silent when he heard that.

    He didn''t think it so much. But now that it was pointed out, he understood why Shui Xian insisted on being around Raelle since that ident. He didn''t expect that it left a huge shadow on Shui Xian''s mind.

    "No one even noticed,"mented Hyson softly.

    "That''s because he didn''t show it," said Ru. "He kept it all in. It''s no surprise that no one noticed. Even his wife didn''t notice it all. But it''s a proven fact that a miscarriage affects both parents." He turned to leave but stopped to add, "Lose that frown. Today is an important day for them. Let them be happy. We shouldn''t talk about unhappy things."

    "That''s true. I shouldn''t worry. As long as Xian Ge is with Ellie, he''ll be fine." Hyson took a deep breath and asked, "By the way, this hotel is really your uncle''s?"

    "It is," answered Ru.

    "Xia Zhao is your uncle?" asked Hyson. He just learned from Raelle that the hotel belonged to Xia Zhao. And she only knew because of the people Xia Zhao had appointed to serve Raelle well. Otherwise, none of them even knew he had a connection with this ce. Who would have thought?

    Mu Chenyan always tried to run away from that man but still ended up arranging the engagement banquet at his hotel. What a twist of fate!

    Hyson would definitely call it fate.

    "Yeah," answered Ru. "That one. He is indeed my uncle. The youngest of his generation." He paused before adding, "No, he seems to have a younger brother too but I don''t call him uncle. So, for this young master, Xia Zhao is indeed the youngest uncle of the family."

    "That means we are going to be rted in the future," added Hyson with a smirk.

    "For now, you can dream," said Ru. "We have no idea how long it will take for this older generation to realize their feelings. Is it that difficult to just ept their feelings?"

    "Hmm... They really wasted a lot of their time," agreed Hyson. "But do you really think it''s not difficult to ept one''s feelings?"

    "It''s your feelings, of course, you''d know what''s going on. The ones who im not to know are just running from their feelings. Being scared and all."

    "Have you ever been in love? How do you know how it feels?"

    "That''s a personal question," answered Ru. "And the answer is, it''splicated."

 Chapter 1070: Just Rocks

    Chapter 1070: Just RocksHyson was silent for a moment as he pursed his lips thoughtfully and eventually asked, "Is it reallyplicated though?"

    Ru looked into his curious eyes and replied, "Things we findplicated are onlyplicated because we don''t wanna get tangled up in thisplexity while trying to uplicate things."

    "You too?"

    "I''m also just a human," said Ru. "Sometimes this young master wants to run from things."

    "You don''t look like a runner,"mented Hyson.

    Ru''s green eyes shed with light as a smirk appeared on his lips and he said, "This young master isn''t a runner. But you can''t always win a confrontation. Especially if you''re challenging fate."

    "Here I thought you''d be quite excited about challenging fate."

    "You don''t know me," said Ru. "All my life, all I did was challenge fate. In the end, I got tired and just epted the reality."

    Hyson thought he understood it but at the same time, he thought he didn''t understand at all. Anyway, since he found Ru here unexpectedly, he continued to follow this young master around.

    ...

    Shui Xian finally ran into the room and when he saw Raelle, he could finally breathe in peace. Raelle saw him enter and continued to look at him carefully. She had actually heard everything that happened outside. She already could feel the urgency in Shui Xian''s voice when he asked Hyson to just let him in and Raelle couldn''t understand it.

    But when she heard Ru''s voice, she realized that things were wrong.

    Raelle looked at Cloe who took the hint and left the room. Raelle looked back at Shui Xian and opened her mouth to say something but before she could say anything, Shui Xian hugged her tightly.

    Raelle didn''t know what happened but she could feel Shui Xian''s body loosening up once he hugged her. It showed that he had been quite tense all this while. He inhaled the scent that belonged to her only and his brain finally rxed.

    Since he didn''t speak, Raelle didn''t say anything either. She just lifted her hand and stroked his back slowly in a soothing motion.

    "Did you miss me so much?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian nodded his head and said in a low voice, "Can you please not ask me to cultivate patience again? You didn''t even take my calls. At least, let me hear your voice."

    Raelle was at a loss for a split moment when she heard the aggrieved voice of Shui Xian.

    "You know how everyone has beenughing at you?" asked Raelle. "Even when I was at home, I was told that my husband is too impatient to see me and seems to be losing his mind."

    "I don''t care," he replied. "They can allugh if they want to. But it''s our day. Is something wrong with wanting to be with my wife?"

    Raelle caressed his face as she said, "No. There is nothing wrong with it." Seeing his condition, Raelle decided to lighten up the mood and change the topic as she said, "You didn''t even see my dress. Aren''t you gonnapliment me? Did I spend so many hours getting ready all for nothing?"

    Shui Xian took a step back and looked at her all over.

    Raelle was wearing an azure blue gown. The gown was chosen by Shui Xian. The gauze fabric gave it a dreamy look. There was a belt on her waist studded with real diamonds. There was a slit on the gown that started right from her thigh.

    It wasn''t a color that she usually wore but it gave her a softer look than usual. Today, she really looked her age. And didn''t have the aggressive look of a professional woman who stood at the top of the pyramid. Today, she just looked like a young woman. Even her makeup was done in a softer shade.

    Shui Xian could see that Mu Chenyan spent a lot of time on Raelle and was very thoughtful about even the smallest of details.

    "You look gorgeous," said Shui Xian. "Breathtaking as always."

    Raelle was very used to thispliment from him. Even seeing her in a onesie he''d say the same. He was really just blind in love. But that didn''t mean she didn''t like hearing thesepliments from him. She always thoughtpliments didn''t really matter and she didn''t care all that much. Because she was confident in herself and knew she looked great.

    But thepliments from him were really different.

    "But something is missing," said Shui Xian.

    He raised his finger, "Give me a minute." He ran outside and came back soon after. He ced the box on the side and opened it. He took out the sapphire ne from the box and put it around her neck.

    "I chose it with Yanyan," he told her. "It was in someone''s personal collection so I had to spend quite some effort into buying it. That''s why I just received it." Money wasn''t an issue. It was truly difficult to buy things from the collectors. But when he told that female collector that he wanted it for his wife and seeing how sincere he was, he actually managed to get it.

    Of course, Shui Xian was feeling smug about it since even Mu Chenyan couldn''t convince the collector to sell this ne. Hehehe. It meant he won over Mu Chenyan for once. It felt actually good that he did it on his own while Mu Chenyan couldn''t.

    "How is it?" he asked her.

    Raelle looked in the mirror and nodded her head, "It''s beautiful."

    "It definitely looks better on you," said Shui Xian. "On its own, it was just a few pieces of shiny rocks that looked beautiful. But on your snow-white neck, it''s like you breathed life into it and brought out these rocks'' beauty and turned them into priceless gems..."

    "Stop," said Raelle. "Are you gonna write an essay now?"

    "I can write an essay if you want me to," he replied. "By wife is so beautiful. Of course, words would not be enough to describe your beauty but I can still try to do my best."

    "You should really stop," said Raelle once again. "I don''t want you to write an essay." She took a pause, "I was thinking why Yanyan didn''t put jewelry on me. Now, I know. You both already had it nned out." She took his hand into her own and sat down with him as she said, "Let''s sit here and wait. We are in no hurry to go out."

    "Hmm..." Shui Xian hummed with a smile as he continued to look at her and he intertwined his fingers with hers tightly.

    Raelle looked at their interlocked hands and asked, "Are the guests here?"

    "Not yet," replied Shui Xian. "For now, only the family members are gathering," he replied. "They were asking me to stand at the door to wee the guests. I refused. Why should do it?"

    "You did good," said Raelle. "My hubby doesn''t have to wee anyone." She thought about something and asked, "So who is here?"

    "I''m not sure," answered Shui Xian sheepishly. "I only saw Xukun and Yanjun. Oh, and Cloe too. I don''t know who else came as of yet."

    "Then what were you doing?" asked Raelle.

    "Of course, I was waiting for you," he said. "That was the most important to me."

    Raelle shook her head at him saying, "You shouldn''t spend so much time on me."

    "I can''t help it," he said. Then he asked, "Baby, are you nervous?"

    "Why would I be?" she asked in return. "I don''t know what nervousness is. Besides, we are already married. These are all just formalities. Why do you keep forgetting that?"

    "I didn''t forget any of that," he said. "It''s just that... I''m still a little nervous. What if I messed up? What if I embarrassed you?"

    "It''s okay. Even if you messed up, I still want only you. You won''t be embarrassing me at all. No matter what you do, you''d still be my husband," she told him. "It''s not if you messed up, I''ll walk out that I''m not marrying this embarrassing guy."

    "Would you?"

    Raelle gave him a look, "Hubby! Are you okay? I can''t walk out. We are legally married."

    "So, you mean if you could, you''d actually walk out?"

    "If you continued to ask these questions, I''m gonna make you wait outside again," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian instantly stopped talking about it, "I won''t. I won''t. I promise I won''t. Don''t send me out. I want to stay here. If you want, I''ll just sit in one corner but I refuse to go out again. No one lets me in once I go out. I don''t like that." Thinking of something, he asked, "You also didn''t want me toe inside, right?"

    "What? What makes you think that?"

    "You created that puzzle that Hyson asked me to solve," said Shui Xian. "You definitely didn''t want me to enter that easily."

    "It''s true that I created that puzzle but it wasn''t for you," she told him. "Believe me, it was not my intention to hold you outside. These tricks can''te from me. You should already know."

 Chapter 1071: My Dear Godson

    Chapter 1071: My Dear Godson"Yanyan, do you need some help?"

    Mu Chenyan looked at Hyson in amusement, "You finally got the time to ask me this question? Aren''t you a little too early?"

    Of course, Hyson could feel the sarcasm. It was too obvious. And he also knew he was in the wrong so he scratched the tip of his nose sheepishly, "Isn''t it because I know my godmother is the most powerful around here? How could she need others'' help? Especially, mine. I am still a baby who often needs her help. At most, I can provide my godmother with some emotional support."

    Mu Chenyanughed at that. She pinched his nose, "Aiyo, my godson is so thoughtful."

    Hyson smiled at her, "I know, right? Even I get surprised by how thoughtful I am."

    Mu Chenyan shook her head at him and said, "Since you''re already offering your kind services, how can I refuse? I really need your emotional support. I''m so tired."

    Hyson gave her a hug making Mu Chenyan raise her brow at his action. She didn''t understand what he was up to but since one of her babies was willing to offer a hug, how could she refuse? She never could!

    So, she lifted her hand and hugged him back with a content smile on her face.

    Hyson pulled away a little to look at her face, "How is it? Are you feeling recharged again? Isn''t my magical hug like a rejuvenation pill?"

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips when she understood the intention behind this hug and almost rolled her eyes. Eventually, she held herself back from rolling her eyes and ended upughing instead. She tapped his forehead, "Silly."

    Hyson gave her a toothy grin in response.

    He suddenly found his mother on the other side, sitting with Zhai Yanjun and pampering him. Hyson''s eyes deepened and held Mu Chenyan''s hand before pulling her to a corner.

    "What''s wrong, little Fai?"

    Hyson took a deep breath, "The secret of birth is out now."

    Mu Chenyan''s brows quirked up and she turned serious when she heard it. "How?"

    Hyson shrugged, "I heard it''s my mum''s father who spilled the beans."

    "How does he know?" asked Mu Chenyan in confusion.

    Hyson stared at her, "I don''t think it''d be difficult for people to make a connection. He might be old but he isn''t senile. He spent his life ying the game of nerves with the old and foxy politicians and he had been one of them. He couldn''t be a fool." He took a pause and changed his words, "No, he is a fool. I almost forgot for a moment. A man who couldn''t even clean up his own family is certainly a fool. So what if he had a sessful career? When one''s personal life is a mess, that person can only be considered unsessful in life!"

    Mu Chenyan patted his head, "Don''t talk like that. He is your elder. I know you don''t wanna call him your grandfather but he is still your mother''s father. Respect him. Don''t be rude or people would say that your godmother didn''t teach you any manners. That''d be really hurtful, eh!"

    Hyson lowered his head. He knew why she said it. Mu Chenyan might wreak havoc in the world on her own but she''d always teach him to be peace-loving. She really wanted him to be a good kid. She didn''t mind when peoplemented on her. Whether they thought she was rude, inelegant, or udylike, she never cared. But if someone said that she didn''t raise Raelle and Hyson well, she''d really be hurt.

    Hyson could only sigh and agree, "I know, I''ll keep it in mind. I won''t do anything that could make people point at you or my mum. Have I ever let you down before?"

    Mu Chenyan stroked his face lovingly, "Of course, not. My little Fai is a good boy!" She dropped this topic and asked, "So, Zhai Kuijun also knows?"

    "Yes," answered Hyson.

    Mu Chenyan''s eyes shed. "No wonder he had been looking at Yue with so much guilt, pain, and confusion in his eyestely." She sighed to herself and asked, "How do you know about this?"

    "Jun Ge told me," said Mu Chenyan.

    Mu Chenyan paused and looked over to the side Zhai Yanjun was trying to make Yue Yueugh. She narrowed her eyes at him.

    "He... Is he okay with it all?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "What do you think?" asked Hyson in return.

    Mu Chenyan already had the answer. The way Zhai Yanjun behaved with Yue Yue was exactly the same as if nothing happened. And this also meant that he truly was okay with this truth. In fact, he might even be quite happy about it too.

    "What did he say to you?"

    "He is bothering me," said Hyson. "He keepsing to me. At first, I could still hold him off since he didn''t know we are brothers. Now, as if he got a free pass to annoy me. It''s so damn annoying to have an elder brother like him."

    Mu Chenyan smiled at him, "But my little Fai doesn''t dislike him either. If you really disliked him, he wouldn''t be able to hover around you whenever he wanted. It''s because you''re letting him in that he is getting the chance to do so."

    Hyson pursed his lips as his thoughts were so clear in front of Mu Chenyan. He couldn''t hide anything from her. He suddenly hugged her again and said, "I don''t dislike him but... I... I don''t know about having a father or grandparents. I don''t wanna be a child of the Zhai family. Can''t I be just your godson?"

    Mu Chenyan was startled by his words. Even though Hyson always acted like a kid in front of everyone but all of that was pretense. But right now, he was truly being a baby which left Mu Chenyan feeling a bit lost. She didn''t know how to react for a moment.

    "I don''t wanna get in the way of mum''s happiness," said Hyson. "And I know, I have no right to do so. She has already done more than enough for me. I can''t ask for more. And I also know that she really loves Zhai Kuijun. That fact didn''t change." He went silent for a moment before saying, "But just because of their rtionship, do I have to change everything in my life? What if I don''t wanna change?"

    "Then don''t."

    These words weren''ting from Mu Chenyan but from Grandfather Xiang who appeared beside them at an unknown time. He looked at Hyson''s aggrieved look and his heart felt stuffy. He beckoned him over.

    Once Hyson went to his side, Grandfather Xiang held his hand and said, "How can anyone ask our family little prince to make changes? I''m still alive. And you''re still my Xiang family''s little prince. Do you have a doubt about your Opa''s words?"

    Hyson shook his head, "I don''t. I know Opa loves me the most. Even more than Ellie."

    Grandfather Xiang smiled at his cheeky smile but he didn''t refute it. He loving tapped his nose and said, "Don''t make that sad face. How can our family''s mascot be unhappy? Weugh because youugh. If you started keeping the unsmiling face like Raelle, wouldn''t our days be cloudy? Now, give me a smile."

    Hyson happily smiled at that.

    "That''s more like it," said Grandfather Xiang. "This smile suits you the best. Stop worrying about anything else. Don''t you know our family''s motto? We''ll just go with the flow. You do whatever your heart desires. No one can force you into anything. Hm? I''m your biggest supporter here. And so is Chenyan. Right?"

    Mu Chenyan looked at him and nodded, "Was there ever a doubt? Do I call him my godson for fun? Of course, I have raised him like my own. So, it''s my job to protect him and his happiness. How can I let anyone disrupt his life?" She rubbed Hyson''s head, "My dear godson, your godmother is still here. Don''t worry about a thing."

    "I was not worried," said Hyson. "I just wanted to share my feelings with you."

    He truly just wanted to share his feelings with Mu Chenyan. He couldn''t say it to his own mother. And he didn''t have to say it out loud to Raelle. But he was truly Mu Chenyan''s baby son so he wanted to ask for some love right now.

    He got lucky and got some love from Grandfather Xiang as a bonus.

    "Now, our family''s mascot should go and wee the guests at the door," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Huh?" Hyson was dumbfounded. "Why me?"

    "Aren''t you Elle''s brother?" asked Mu Chenyan. She raised her hand and called out, "Weimin,e here!"

    Xiang Weimin came over and looked at everyone before asking, "What is it,, aunt?"

    "Take your little brother to the door and wee everyone," said Mu Chenyan. "The guests would be here soon. You both should wee them in as the bride''s brothers."

 Chapter 1072: All His Fault

    Chapter 1072: All His FaultIn the end, Shui Xian was saved from being the door god but Hyson had to take that ce along with Xiang Weimin. Standing at the door to wee the guests, Hyson looked at the upright posture of Xiang Weimin and his serious face. He rolled his eyes and said, "Ge, lose the frown. Are you trying to scare people away with your nk look? Give a smile."

    "Aren''t I doing just fine?" asked Xiang Weimin. It was his first time doing something like weing the guests, so he wasn''t very used to it. He was just acting as he did with his battalion. He really forgot that the guests were considered civilians and were not hisrades from the army.

    "If anyone didn''t know any better, they''d think someone forced you to stand here," said Hyson. "While in truth, it''s me who was forced here."

    Xiang Weimin''s lips finally curled ever so slightly as he looked at Hyson and said, "Forced? And you? I think you look very willing."

    Hyson sighed and flipped a strand of hair falling on his forehead as he said, "That''s because I''m good at hiding my feelings."

    Xiang Weimin shook his head, "Isn''t it because you don''t want to disappoint Raelle?"

    Hyson paused and went silent. Eventually, he said, "Ge, don''t expose me like this. I understand that as a brother, it''s my responsibility to stand here for Ellie. But damnit, I hate it!"

    Xiang Weimin ced his hand on his head saying, "I wish I could send you back inside but I really can''t. So, little brother, hang in there."

    Hyson had a bright and weing smile on his face when he greeted the guests who came while Xiang Weimin was still a bit restrained. However, he wasn''t wearing a nk face anymore. It''s just that even with that slight smile, he still looked a little unapproachable.

    Good thing was that none of the guests would mind however they weed them.

    After all, it was an engagement banquet of Raelle Xiang and Shui Xian. Those two alone were enough to make people want to curry favors with them but adding their surnames added a lot more weight. Who didn''t want to cozy up to the Xiang family or the Shui family?

    So what if Shui Koshing broke off his rtionship with the Shui family, it wouldn''t change the fact that Shui Koshing alone had more value than the entire Shui family. And his son, Shui Xian was no less than his father.

    "Hi, Uncle!" greeted Hyson.

    Xiang Hulin looked at Hyson and then his eyes fell on his son.

    "Uncle, aren''t youte to your own daughter''s engagement?"

    "I''ve been here since this morning," replied Xiang Hulin.

    "Oh," responded Hyson. "I didn''t know that. I didn''t see you."

    "Dad, you should go inside and stay with grandpa," said Xiang Weimin.

    "Okay," agreed Xiang Hulin and went inside.

    "He had been overlooking the arrangements when aunt Yan wasn''t here," told Xiang Weimin to Hyson. "In fact, he was the first person to get here."

    "What about your mother?" asked Hyson in a small voice.

    "She is also here," replied Xiang Weimin.

    "Huh? Where?"

    "She is... hiding," said Xiang Weimin strangely. "I guess it''ll take her a little more time to gather her courage toe here."

    "Ge, I have a question. Can I ask?"

    "Do you need permission to ask?"

    Hyson chuckled, "Not really. I was just trying to be nice."

    "Go ahead," said Xiang Weimin.

    "If I ask you to describe your mother in one word, how would you do it?"

    Xiang Weimin''s brows knitted up. He didn''t expect Hyson to be still in the mood to ask such random questions but thinking that Hyson must be bored after saying hello to so many people, Xiang Weimin didn''t say anything and only answered his question, "Insecure."

    Hyson''s eyes widened a little. "Really?"

    "Really," affirmed Xiang Weimin. Hyson nodded his head and this time, Xiang Weimn asked, "What about you? How would you describe your mother in one word?"

    Hyson didn''t even take a minute to answer, "Lovesick!"

    Xiang Weimin was taken aback, "Are you sure?"

    "Positive," replied Hyson. "That''s the first word thates to mind whenever I think of my mum."

    "Why?"

    "Because over the years, a lot of things about her changed. From a weak, frail, fragile woman, she learned to be strong, independent, and capable. She even learned to ept her shorings. But one thing that didn''t change was her lovesickness. It''s still the same as it was before."

    "Does Aunt Yue know what you think about her?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "She knows it very well," replied Hyson. "And she never denied it either."

    "Fai!"

    Hyson turned and looked at his group members who came together and smiled, "Do you guys have to always n toe together?"

    "You didn''t even invite us,"ined Lin Zhen. "You don''t get to question us here."

    "It''s not my engagement, why should I invite you?" retorted Hyson.

    "Well, then we''ll wait for your engagement," said Feng Yiwen.

    "Yi Ge, I think the probability of your engagement before mine is higher," was Hyson''s answer which actually got acknowledged by everyone there. "Where is Zi Huan Ge?" asked Hyson.

    "He was just behind us," replied Feng Yiwen as touched his silver earing and a strange light shed in his eyes. It didn''t escape Hyson''s eyes.

    And soon, he knew what it was all about when he saw Pei Zi Huan holding He Rou''s bag in one hand and her hand in his other hand as he helped her in walking. Hyson''s lips twitched seeing this scene and the others turned their faces away, not wanting to even look.

    "Sister-inw, why torture yourself with those heels if you can''t walk in them?" asked Hyson.

    He Rou looked at Hyson and pouted, "How is it my fault? Look at your Zi Huan Ge! It''s all his fault!"

    Everyone was surprised by this response only Hyson had an understanding look.

    "Indeed, who asked Zi Huan Ge to be so tall,"mented Hyson. "It''s all his fault that you have to wear such high heels to make a perfect match."

    "Indeed," He Rou feltforted knowing that Hyson understood it so well.

 Chapter 1073: [Bonus chapter] Keep An Eye

    Chapter 1073: [Bonus chapter] Keep An Eye"Yes, yes, it''s all my fault," agreed Pei Zhi Huan obediently. There was no point in arguing. He had to give in to his girlfriend to make her happy. He couldn''t say that it was her problem that she was so... small. Ahem! He couldn''t say it. He didn''t dare say it.

    In fact, when they were just friends growing up, it was so easy for him to even call her shorty but it changed the moment she became his girlfriend. He truly couldn''t bring himself to point to her height and make her sad. That was a sin!

    He Rou''s smile got brighter when she heard Pei Zi Huan''s words and she smiled beautifully at Hyson and said, "I''m so thankful that you and I are in the same production this time around. If not, I really wouldn''t be able to get the free time toe and join this engagement of the year!"

    "Why are you so excited?" asked Hyson.

    "Of course, I''m excited. I told you..." Before she could continue, Pei Zi Huan stood between the two of them like a wall. He Rou tried to push him away but he refused to budge. "Zi, what are you doing?"

    "I say, we should go inside," said Pei Zi Huan.

    He Rou hmphed, "Don''t think I don''t know what you''re up to. You just don''t want me to talk to Little Fai. I told you there is nothing between us. Do you really believe that stupid paparazzi rumor?"

    "I don''t believe it at all," said Pei Zi Huan.

    "Then step away," said He Rou.

    "We are standing at the door, it doesn''t look good. Especially since we are public figures," Pei Zi Huan pointed out wisely.

    Only then did He Rou calm down and agreed. She entered the hall with Pei Zi Huan.

    "Take notes, you single crowd!" said Hyson to the rest of them.

    "As if you aren''t a part of this crowd," retorted Huang Shuyi and then he fixed his jacket and walked inside dashingly.

    Hyson pulled back Lin Zhen and Feng Yiwen as he asked, "What''s up with Shuyi Ge? He didn''t yawn even for a second just now. And he looks unusually spirited."

    "Don''t ask, we are also wondering," replied Feng Yiwen. "He even called for his personal stylist to help today."

    "What?" Hyson was baffled. "He, who loves toze around and bide his time is actually caring about his personal image? Is he the same guy who walked into the venue of our fan meeting after he pulled on a random hoodie?"

    "It''s hard to believe for us too," said Feng Yiwen. "Zhen Ge and I have been discussing this on our way but we haven''t figured out a thing yet."

    "I have a bold guess," Lin Zhen finally chimed in.

    "What is it?" asked Hyson and Feng Yiwen.

    "He is either chasing someone or he is already in a rtionship. And whoever the person is, that person is gonna be here tonight," Lin Zhen gave his point of view. "The rest, we''ll figure out if we keep our eyes open, eh?"

    "I agree," said both Hyson and Feng Yiwen. "This sounds very likable. I have to keep an eye on him tonight."

    Feng Yiwen pushed Hyson away, "You are the host. Pay attention to your own stuff. Leave this kind of thing to me. I''m free anyway."

    "Okay, I''m counting on your, Ge!"

    While Hyson was gossiping with these two, Xiang Weimin weed the neers. The one who came was someone Xiang Weimin didn''t know but the little guy that the woman was holding was someone he was more than familiar with.

    Just seeing Xiang Weimin''s eyes softened instinctively. He didn''t even need Hyson''s reminder anymore and he looked a lot gentle and approachable all of a sudden.

    On the other hand, the little guy, Justin who was dressed in his ck suit was pleasantly surprised to meet Xiang Weimin at the door. The little guy looked like a little prince as he was all dressed up. Coincidentally, Xiang Weimin was also wearing a ck suit and it matched Justin''s.

    Justin ran over to Xiang Weimin with his short legs and happily hugged Xiang Weimin''s leg. Xiang Weimin chuckled softly and picked him up as he said, "Look who is here. Who is this little handsome prince? Why can''t I recognize this handsome guy?"

    Justin pouted as he said softly, "It''s me. Justin."

    Xiang Weimin''s heart melted as he bopped his nose, "I know. How can I forget you?"

    On the side, Tang Hebe was left stunned for a long while. She had heard Justin talk about Xiang Weimin and knew that he liked Xiang Weimin a lot. Tang Hebe didn''t really think much about it. She only thought after getting acquainted with Raelle, Justin was just opening up to people. But now that she saw the excitement and intimacy that Justin showed towards Xiang Weimin, she was at a loss.

    Once again, she was wondering if this was her own son or not.

    When did he change so much? When did he be so proactive in approaching people? And when did he be so talkative? It really made her question if she had not done her best in raising him?

    She saw Justin talking to Xiang Weimin and cleared up her mind. Whatever! Wasn''t it just good that her baby was growing up? Why did it matter who brought the change? She''d just be happy that he is already learning to open up.

    Justin pointed at Tang Hebe and introduced, "That''s my mom."

    Xiang Weimin looked at Tang Hebe and smiled politely at her and she did the same.

    "Justin,e down now," said Tang Hebe. "Let''s go inside."

    Justin pouted and one could see that he didn''t want to get down. He really liked being held by Xiang Weimin. He was so high and he felt so safe. Why should he get down?

    Xiang Weimin saw his reluctance and said, "Let him stay. He''ll be fine with me."

    Tang Hebe hesitated, "This... This isn''t good."

    "I''ll keep him safe," assured Xiang Weimin.

    "It''s not about that," said Tang Hebe. "You''re busy. How can we bother you like this?"

    "There is no worry," said Xiang Weimin. "I''m happy to have somepany. You can go inside and rx. I''ll take care of Justin."

    Tang Hebe looked at her son who heartlessly nodded his head and even said in his milky voice, "Mom, I''m fine here."

    Tang Hebe couldn''t really drag him away so she sighed and nodded her head. She touched his head and said, "Be good, okay?"

    "Okay."

 Chapter 1074: Unreliability

    Chapter 1074: UnreliabilityWhen Hyson turned back, Justin was already in Xiang Weimin''s arms while Tang Hebe was reluctantly taking her eyes away from her son. At this time, Hyson appeared at her side.

    "Ms. Tang, long time no see!"

    Purely on instinct, Tang Hebe took a step back. She could swear that she did it subconsciously and it wasn''t the intention at all.

    Hyson looked at her movement and asked, "Are you scared of me?"

    "N-No," said Tang Hebe as her voice cracked. "No," she said once again after clearing her throat. "No," she emphasized for whatever reason.

    Hyson chuckled at her reaction and touched his face, "Do I look scary?"

    She shook her head.

    "Then did I hurt your feelingsst time?" asked Hyson and this time Tang Hebe took a moment to answer.

    "Not really," she finally replied. "It''s just that..."

    "You don''t have to say it," said Hyson. "I understand. But I''ll say it once again, hurting your feelings wasn''t the intention. It''s out of my control most of the time too."

    "You just remind me of Raelle," Tang Hebe told him honestly.

    "Pfft!" Hyson burst outughing. "So, the one you''re scared of is Ellie? I can''t even give you words offort then. She can be pretty scary. All I can say is that you''ll get used to it."

    "That''s veryforting," said Tang Hebe as she shook her head.

    "Please,e inside," Hyson even made a hand gesture of weing her. "And don''t forget to enjoy yourself."

    Tang Hebe paused and looked back at him, "Are you being sarcastic right now?"

    "I am being very sincere right now," was Hyson''s response. "I do want you to enter and enjoy yourself. It can be difficult thinking that it''s your ex-husband''s engagement banquet. But why don''t you look at it another way?" She raised her brow at him as he went on, "You can take this moment to see that he is happy and he has moved on. What does that mean? It means you don''t have to live in the past too. Just because you did something wrong doesn''t mean you don''t deserve to be happy or find your own second chance."

    Tang Hebe went silent for a moment as mist appeared in her eyes. She blinked her eyes to clear up her vision andughed, "Thank you!"

    "For what?" asked Hyson.

    "For being you," she said. "You look a lot more like Raelle at this moment."

    Hyson grinned at her, "I love it when people say I remind them of Ellie. And there is no need for a thank you! I''m someone who wholeheartedly wants to spread smiles and love in this world. This is the purpose of my life!"

    Tang Hebe smiled at him and went inside.

    "That''s really your purpose?" asked Xiang Weimin with aplicated look in his eyes.

    Hyson turned to look at him, "Ge, my whole existence''s purpose was to stop my mum from losing hope in life and keep on living. I came to this world to make her smile and offer her all the love shecked in her life. So, instead of just making her happy, I decided to make everyone happy."

    "You make people cry too," reminded Xiang Weimin.

    "Well, crying is also a part of the cycle of life. You can''t miss out on that," said Hyson as if what he said was the real truth and nothing could say otherwise. Then his eyes fell on Justin who was curiously blinking his big eyes at him. Hyson''s smile widened as he waved his hand, "Hi!"

    Justin turned his head and hid his face in Xiang Weimin''s neck.

    "Oh?" Hyson was startled. "Am I really scary tonight?" First, the mother was scared of him and now the son was acting the same way. When did he lose his charm? Why wasn''t he able to understand it at all? It didn''t make sense.

    Xiang Weimin stroked Justin''s head lovingly as he said, "He is just shy. He is unfamiliar with you. Of course, he''ll have some reservations."

    "Really?" Seeing Xiang Weimin nodding, Hyson patted his chest in relief. "That''s good to know or I''d really start crying." But being the annoyingly persistent best friend of Raelle, how could he let this matter rest? This guy was practically his nephew! He had to do his best to cozy up to this little guy who suddenly appeared and was eyeing on Hyson''s position of being the youngest in the family.

    Hyson suddenly felt the pain in his heart. He was about to lose to a kid!

    But considering that this kid was so adorable, he''d just let take his position. It didn''t matter.

    "Yo, little human, I''m Fai!" Hyson introduced himself excitedly. "Didn''t my best friend, Raelle mention me to you?"

    Hearing Raelle''s name, Justin lifted his head a little and peeked at Hyson. Of course, thetter was happy with this development.

    "Yes, I''m the one called Hyson too," added Hyson. "I heard you are a little buddy of Raelle. Then how about being my friend too? You see, I''m a lot cuter than Raelle."

    "Pretty sister is pretty," said Justin in a small voice.

    "I agree," said Hyson. "Elle is beautiful. But I''m cute."

    Xiang Weiminughed at this interaction and shook his head helplessly, "Fai, stop it. You look like you''re trying to deceive a child here."

    Hyson turned serious, "Ge, how can someone as handsome as me even bebeled as a deceiver?"

    "It''s always the pretty ones who like to deceive people," reminded Xiang Weimin. "Trust me, I know. I''ve seen a lot of cases like that. You see, men always lose their money to beautiful women and women always lose money to sweet-talkers, it''s an added bonus if those men are good looking too."

    Hyson pouted unhappily, "I can''t argue with that. This is so unfair! Where are these deceivers? Why are they losing the credibility for my good looks? How is a good and handsome man like me even supposed to survive in this deceptive world? Why! Heaven, why is it so unfair to people with good looks? When did my handsomeness be the reason for unreliability?"

 Chapter 1075: [Bonus chapter] Good With Kids

    Chapter 1075: [Bonus chapter] Good With KidsXiang Weimin stopped paying attention to him when Justin pulled his sleeve and said, "You can put me down. You''ll get tired."

    Xiang Weimin kissed this adorable kid as he said, "You''re so small and light. I won''t get tired."

    Justin shook his head, "I''m heavy. Put me down, I can stand on my own."

    Xiang Weimin didn''t insist and put him down on the ground. Then he fixed his suit and even fixed his hair. Meanwhile, Hyson kept his eyes on their interactions and sighed. He didn''t think there was a need for a DNA test at all to even know what was the rtionship between these two. Just seeing them with their same gestures and habits it was enough to see they were father and son.

    Hyson never thought blood was thicker than water.

    Never! Ever!

    Not even when he came to see his own father.

    But seeing these two, he realized that maybe, blood was really thicker than water.

    "When peoplee, you have to smile at them," instructed Xiang Weimin. "And just have to be your cute self. Can you do that?"

    Justin nodded his head, "I can."

    Xiang Weimin smiled, "Then I''m counting on you, champ! You can do it!"

    Justin happily stood beside Xiang Weimin. He couldn''t even reach Xiang Weimin''s waist but he stood with him obediently. Hyson found this picture too much for his heart and decided to look away.

    That''s when he saw an acquaintance.

    "Mr. Soren," called out Hyson.

    Soren looked at Hyson and said, "Should I be feeling honored that a superstar is waiting at the door for me?"

    "Don''t tter yourself," said Hyson. "I''m not waiting for just you."

    Soren didn''t say anything. In fact, he didn''t get the chance to do so as his daughter jumped out from behind him and looked at Hyson excitedly. She pulled her father''s hand saying, "Daddy, it''s Hyson!"

    Soren smiled helplessly and patted her head, "Yes, it is him."

    Little Xena was so excited that she pulled her brother along and even told him, "See! It''s him! You said I''ll never get to meet him."

    Little Sammy didn''t know why he was being dragged. Wasn''t it a truth that you won''t meet your idols? How would he know that his sister would end up meeting her idol so soon?

    "You also said if I want to see him, I have to study hard," added Little Xena.

    Sammy held her hand and said, "Then isn''t it because you studied hard that he is here to see you?"

    Hyson looked at their exchange and found it very funny. Especially when he saw how Little Xena''s face scrunched up after hearing her brother''s words.

    He crouched down in front of the kids and joined their conversation, "Hi, Xena!"

    Little Xena gaped at him, "Brother, he knows my name."

    Hyson chuckled, "Yes, I know your name. Didn''t I send you my autograph? Your daddy said you''re such an obedient girl. I had to give you a reward for doing your best."

    Little Xena giggled, "Brother, he is real."

    "What were you thinking all this while?" asked Little Sammy questioning the intelligence of his sister at this moment. He suddenly didn''t want to acknowledge this sister. It was so embarrassing.

    "Well, I knew he is real but it''s different when you see the real person."

    Hyson stretched his hand as he said, "Do you wanna handshake to check if I''m real?"

    Little Xena held his hand and shook it with force. Her hands were obviously so small at this agepared to Hyson''s and so was her strength. Hyson felt like she was ying with him now. But he went along and evenplimented, "Oh my! You''re such a strong girl!"

    Little Xena proudly jutted out her chin, "Right? I have been diligently going to my martial arts calls. Even my instructor praised me."

    "Wow! So powerful!"

    Xena became shy when her idolplimented her and she blushed so hard that Hyson felt like she looked like a ripe tomato. Aww! This was so cute! Why was the getting attacked with cuteness today? Was Heaven trying to remind him that he wasn''t as cute as these kids? Then he''d just have to shamelessly insist that he was still the best.

    There was no way around it.

    Who asked him to be so shameless?

    "Both of you, go inside. Stop disturbing others."

    Little Xena''s smile became restrained and Little Sammy instantly held his sister''s hand to walk inside.

    Hyson looked at the woman who spoke. She was none other than Cui Xuqing. Her strong aura reminded Hyson of Raelle for a second.

    She looked at Hyson and smiled politely, "I''m sorry. The kids can get a little excited sometimes."

    "I don''t mind," said Hyson.

    After their family went in, Xiang Weimin kept observing Hyson for a long while and finally came to the conclusion, "You really are here to spread love and smiles."

    Hyson''s brows quirked up at Xiang Weimin inquisitively.

    "Also, I didn''t know you''re so good with kids."

    Hyson smiled at that, "It''s because I''m a kid at heart. I can rte to them so I can get close to them. It''s that simple."

    Xiang Weimin smiled, "You''re a kid. Definitely, you are."

    "I know," replied Hyson. "Didn''t I say this before? Age doesn''t matter. You need to keep your heart young. Leave the thoughts of yesterday in yesterday. Enter today as a brand new person. Just like a new day starts after a dark night. Although the cycle repeats with day and night in the end, the day and night are still not the same every time theye. Just like that, you might look the same outside, every day but you need to change the inside every day. It''s the essence that matters."

    Xiang Weimin sighed, "I did not think I''d get to hear such thought-provoking words while standing here weing the guests."

    Hyson looked at him seriously and said, "Ge, this is me telling you that you shouldn''t always be so hard on yourself. Why are you being so mature? It''s not worth it sometimes. You need to have the heart of the kid to see the world in a different light."

 Chapter 1076 Spirit Of A Soldier

    1076 Spirit Of A Soldier

    "How long do I have to sit here?" asked Raelle as she looked at the time.

    Shui Xian also looked at the time and said uncertainly, "Not that long."

    "It''s already very long," replied Raelle and Shui Xian actually felt heartache for his wife.

    He knew she wasn''t used to this situation. In fact, she was a very patient person but only when matters involved money or her family. Apart from that, she wasn''t willing to sit around and wait for so long for anyone or anything.

    She always disliked troublesome things. But she still agreed to an engagement and even a wedding. Now, he was actually starting to worry about the wedding. Because the wait would be worse on that day and adding on all the traditions. He felt like his wife might lose her patience. Although he had yet to see her losing her patience.

    "How about I massage your back?" suggested Shui Xian.

    "Hubby, don''t!" said Raelle. "Don''t look at me like that. It''s like you''re feeling bad for me."

    "How can I not feel bad for my wife? You have to suffer so much," said Shui Xian.

    "Since I am the one who agreed to go through this, it means I''m okay with it," replied Raelle. "Stop running your brain. I''m alright. I was just asking how long we have to wait. It doesn''t mean I''m impatient. It''s just that if someone had told me I''d have to wait for so long, I could have brought some work with me."

    "Even our guests are taking a day off for our engagement," reminded Shui Xian. "And here you''re wanting to actually work? On this day? Wife, what really goes on in that brain of yours?"

    "I was just saying," she said. It''s not like anyone was gonna really allow her to bring work with her on this day. It''d be a disaster if she even talked about this in front of anyone else apart from her husband. But she could say anything to him. It didn''t matter.

    "Wow!"

    Raelle looked up when she heard that exmation. Seeing Xiang Wai at the door, she sat up straight. Xiang Wai ran to her side and said, "You can put the moon to shame tonight. No, you actually did." She pointed out from the window as she went on, "Look! Even the moon didn''t daree out tonight because the moon knew it couldn''t overshadow your sparkle."

    "You''re bing articte,"mented Raelle. "But there is no need to tter me."

    "I''m being honest," insisted Xiang Wai. "No doubt, you''re my sister. You are definitely beautiful like me."

    Raelle looked at Xiang Wai''svender-colored dress as sheplimented, "You''re not looking half bad yourself, Major!"

    Xiang Wai was thrilled to hear thatplimenting from Raelle. No matter how thick-skinned she was, she actually got a little flustered when thepliment was from Raelle. How odd!

    "Well, thank you!" said Xiang Wai politely. "I tried my best to make you look good."

    "Make me look good?" asked Raelle.

    "Of course," replied Xiang Wai. "Wouldn''t it be bad for your image if people saw that your sister isn''t even able to match your shimmer? I spent quite some time and effort into making sure that no one gets to say anything to you."

    Raelle actually ignored her words. But Xiang Wai was still happy. Only because Raelle didn''t say anything regarding the address of ''sister'' that she used. Didn''t it mean that Raelle wasn''t bothered about their rtionship anymore?

    In fact, she knew Raelle wasn''t bothered from the beginning.

    But the thing was that Raelle didn''t take their rtionship seriously at all.

    They were sisters. It was a fact and because of that Raelle just let it be.

    The rtionship was there but they weren''t really sisters.

    "Wai, I heard you''re gonna dance with Yanjun," Shui Xian spoke up at this time. "Are you ready?"

    "Are you?" Even Raelle inquired. "Don''t embarrass me on the dance floor."

    "Have some faith in your sister," said Xiang Wai.

    "How am I supposed to have this faith? Your image doesn''t allow me to believe that you can dance there," said Raelle.

    "That only means, you''re not interested in me at all. If you had taken a little interest in me, you''d know that I actually would have been a dancer if I didn''t join the army back then."

    Shui Xian wasn''t surprised to hear that since he heard about it from Zhai Yanjun at one point in his life. He vaguely did have this memory. But it was something new to Raelle. After all, to Raelle, Xiang Wai really wasn''t that important that she''d learn about her likes and dislikes or her life history for that matter.

    Raelle didn''t even do a background check on Shui Xian when they were getting married. Why would she do it for Xiang Wai? It was pointless to her actually.

    "That''s true. Wai would have been an amazing dancer if she hadn''t joined the army."

    Zhai Yanjun entered the room with Yue Yue when he heard Xiang Wai''s words and couldn''t help agreeing. Yue Yue was surprised as she asked, ''Really? Then why did she choose the army?''

    "Don''t tell me you followed Zhai Yanjun to the army," said Raelle.

    Xiang Wai rolled her eyes, "No way. I wasn''t that crazy about love." She took a look at Zhai Yanjun and added, "I just thought dancing wasn''t for me. My temper wasn''t as delicate as other girls. I didn''t fit in. But I''m happy I chose the army back then. I fit in like fish in the water there."

    Yue Yue felt distressed for her, ''You had to give up your dream because of what others said? How is that good?''

    Xiang Wai chuckled and held Yue Yue''s hand, "Aunt Yue, you don''t have to feel sorry for me. Look at me! I''m a Major! Do you know how many medals I have won in my career? I liked dancing but it wasn''t a passion. I guess, in my blood, the spirit of a soldier resides." She took a pause and sighed, "When I was in the dancing ss, my instructor said I''m not delicate enough. When I entered the military academy, my instructor said I''m too delicate to be a soldier. That''s when I realized that no matter where you are or how you are, people will find reasons to nitpick. Instead of focusing on their words, it''s better that I spent time on improving myself. And that''s exactly what I did. See? Aren''t I an amazing soldier today?"

    Yue Yue smiled at her positive outlook and patted her hand lovingly. ''You would have made an excellent dancer too. But it''s okay. It''s fine as long as you found your path in life.''

    "We humans are very flexible," said Xiang Wai. "We learn to survive wherever we are."

    Yue Yue shook her head, ''No. Not everyone learns to bend with the wind. It takes a lot of courage to do it. And you''re a very courageous person. You should give yourself some credit where it''s due.''

    Xiang Wai was actually happy to hear this. She smiled gently at Yue Yue as she said, "Thank you, aunt Yue. That''s very sweet of you."

    There was a very warm scene happening between the two of them and Raelle was just looking. She wasn''t really interested in everything. But she wasn''t going to interrupt either. She listened to everything and even nodded hearing Xiang Wai''s thoughts. It seemed she had to stop giving too little credit to this sister of hers who was actually the odd ball of their family.

    In fact, Xiang Wai wasn''t really the odd ball. She was still a Xiang. Her conviction was the same. Her courage was the same. Her temper was the same. Except for her IQ, the rest was still somewhat the same. It was just her IQ that made her stand out a lot more in their family.

    "Yue, where is Hyson?"

    Yue Yue looked at Raelle, ''He is weing the guests.''

    "Really?" asked Shui Xian excitedly and evenughed a little. "That''s good."

    ''With Xiang Weimin.''

    Shui Xian restrained his smile as he added, "That''s how it should be. They are Raelle''s brothers. They should do their job."

    Even Raelle didn''t think Hyson and Xiang Weimin would be doing that but as Shui Xian said that it was their job as her brothers, she didn''tment. They should really do some work as her brothers. There was nothing wrong with that. Nothing at all.

    ''Didn''t hee to see you?'' asked Yue Yue.

    "He did," answered Raelle. "But he suddenly disappeared so that''s why I asked what he was up to."

    "He must have no wanted to disturb your time with your husband," Zhai Yanjun pointed out.

    "And yet you are here to do exactly what he avoided," was Raelle''s response.

    "We came to see you," said Zhai Yanjun. "We didn''te to disturb you."

    "Ha! Ha!"

    Zhai Yanjun''s lips twitched at Raelle fakeughter. Damn! It was so irksome!

 Chapter 1077 Its A Gift

    1077 It''s A Gift

    While these people were goofing around in the waiting room, someone knocked on the door. And only then did he enter.

    "I hope I''m not disturbing you all," said Shui Koshing.

    "B¨¤, you aren''t disturbing anyone," replied Raelle. "Come inside."

    Shui Koshing walked up to Raelle and looked at her lovingly. Raelle found some sadness in his smile and the clear indication of that was his reddened eyes. It seemed he had teared up earlier. But why? Raelle definitely couldn''t solve this puzzle.

    "Daughter-inw, someone is here to see you," said Shui Koshing. He looked behind him and said, "You cane inside."

    All of them saw a middle-aged man entering the room. He wore gold-rimmed sses and looked sharp. The sses managed to soften up the aggressiveness in his eyes. But it didn''t hide itpletely. So, it was obvious to see that he was a capable individual.

    None of them recognized the man. While Raelle was wondering who he was, Shui Xian called out, "Uncle Shun?" Raelle looked at her husband who recognized the neer and noticing her gaze, Shui Xian replied, "He is an old friend of mom and also herwyer."

    Lawyer Lu Shun smiled at Shui Xian, "It''s nice to see you again, Xian. It''s been a long time."

    "A very long time indeed," muttered Shui Xian since thest time he saw him was at his mother''s funeral when he read out her will. After that, he never saw him. He did hear that he had moved abroad so he was quite surprised to see him here today. He did not think that his B¨¤ invited this man here. That only meant he came on his own. But why?

    "I''d like to speak to Ms. Raelle Xiang alone," stated Lu Shun. "If you don''t mind," this was directed at Raelle who thought for a moment and nodded her head in agreement.

    Since she agreed, the rest left the room to give them space.

    Even when only Lu Shun and Raelle were left in the room, Lu Shun didn''t speak. He was silently observing her. Raelle didn''t know what he wanted to see but she didn''t care either. She was the person who had no such thing as fear or bashfulness. Why would she care what he was trying to find in her?

    She was as confident as ever and just stood there giving off a superior aura.

    Lu Shun nodded in acknowledgment, "Yin was right. You are really an impable person. And very beautiful."

    "Thank you for thepliment," said Raelle as she thought about why herte mother-inw would talk about her with herwyer.

    "Do you know that Qian Yin liked you a lot?" asked Lu Shun. He didn''t wait for her response as he went on, "In fact, it was her dream to have you as her daughter-inw. Or should I say, she was obsessed with the idea of taking you to her home? Since she knew you wouldn''t want to be her daughter, she set her eyes on making you her daughter-inw." He sighed as reminisced alone, "She was a stubborn person."

    "I wonder what brought you here, Mr. Lu," asked Raelle. "It couldn''t be just to reminisce about myte mother-inw, right?"

    "Not really," he said. Then he ced his bag on the table and opened it slowly. He took out a delicate box from inside and offered it to her, "This is a gift from yourte mother-inw to you."

    Raelle was momentarily lost. She didn''t react for a long moment and Lu Shun didn''t rush her either. He could actually understand her confusion very well. Even he thought Qian Yin was crazy when she brought this to her and ced her conditions before him.

    Raelle took the delicate box and opened it. Inside the boxy a beautiful tiara. The design of the tiara was intricate. It wasn''t as exaggerated as the sapphire ne that Shui Xian got for her. The diamonds on the tiara weren''t unseen. At least not to Raelle who grew up in an affluent family. But the big blue diamond in the very center of the tiara still caught her attention.

    She held the tiara in her hands, not knowing what to do or how to react at all.

    This was really unexpected to her.

    "This is really for me?" she asked uncertainly.

    "It is," answered Lu Shun.

    "She left it for me?"

    "She designed it for you," said Lu Shun. "If I''m not wrong, she did promise you that she''d make a jewelry set for you. This tiara was her engagement gift to you."

    "Engagement gift?" repeated Raelle.

    "Yes," answered Lu Shun. "Although she wanted to make you her daughter-inw, she knew the chances of that were bleak. Yet, she wanted to give you this on your engagement. She left it with me. Asking me that whenever I hear the news of your engagement, I should bring it to you on her behalf if she is no longer around." He took a moment as he noticed Raelle''s lost expression and smiled bitterly, "I know this is unexpected. But I don''t think you should doubt how much she loved you."

    "She and I didn''t know each other that well," said Raelle.

    "I know," replied Lu Shun. "But as I said, she loved you. She wanted to take you home as her daughter. She said, ''Raelle is a beautiful person. She has a beautiful heart. I think these diamonds won''t be enough to match her dazzling self but this is all I''ve got. I just want her to know she is more precious than these gems. This is just a small gift from me to her.''"

    Raelle suddenly recalled the image of that woman in her memory. The thing that stuck with Raelle regarding Qian Yin had been how much she loved her son. And just now, Raelle realized that the same woman seemed to love her a lot. Even when they didn''t know each other all that well.

 Chapter 1078 [Bonus chapter] Its My Blessing

    1078 [Bonus chapter] It''s My Blessing

    Lu Shun took out an envelope and offered it to her, "She left you a letter too."

    Raelle moved her eyes away from the tiara in her hands and looked at that old envelope in his hands. She didn''t take it immediately.

    "Should I tell you how crazy yourte mother-inw was?" asked Lu Shun. "She left you two letters. One in case you got engaged to someone else and the other in case you really ended up marrying her son by some stroke of luck. So, I''m giving you the one she wrote just in case her fantasy turned into reality."

    Raelle put the tiara back into the box and took the envelope. She opened it and started reading...

    ''Dear Raelle,

    If you''re reading this letter, does that mean you''re about to be my daughter-inw? I amughing hysterically even writing this. Because just the thought of making you, my daughter-inw is enough to make me happy for days. Jokes apart, I hope this letter finds you in good health. If you''re really reading this letter, the possibility is I''m no longer around. Because if I was, I''d have long gotten rid of this stupid letter of mine and said it all to you on my own. It''s such a shame that I can''t say it in person.

    Do you remember the first time we met?

    I was going through some rough patches in life. It wasn''t the first time I felt that down in my life, but it was the first time I found you. Your words made me ept things. It made me ept not only my present but also my past. So, I always wanted to say thank you for that. You have a warm soul even when you look so cold. I can testify to it since your warmth reached out to me when I needed it.

    Now, I''m really talking nonsense. But if I don''t write it, I might not get the chance to say these things to you ever again.

    Raelle, I hope this stinkywyer of mine gave you the tiara as your engagement gift. It''s not just a gift. It''s my wish for you. You''re the queen, you deserve that tiara. It was my first time designing a tiara because I never wanted to make one. But once I met you, I got inspired. This is my blessing to you for a happy life.

    Since you''re marrying my son, then that means he is no longer lovesick. Thank heaven for that! Don''t think I''m a cruel mother who can''t see her son being happy. Xian is my darling son. And that''s why I wanted the best for him. Even if that meant going against him all the time. I realized that it created a lot of distance between our rtionship. Even when I tried to fix it, I wasn''t able to do much. At least, not until the point I''m writing this letter. I don''t know about the future though.

    I shouldn''t even write about this in this letter. It''s like I''m trying to ruin your special day. Don''t mind my words. You must be wondering why I even wrote this letter in the first ce.

    You see, I have lost a lot of people in my life. And it made me realize that nothing is permanent. Especially, human life is very fragile. I have no trust in my life and that''s why I wanted to leave something behind for you.

    I hope you don''t miss your mother-inw on this day. Although I''m a little sad that only my letter is there and not me, it''s enough for me to know that you''re bing my daughter-inw. If you can''t understand my excitement, think about it like this. I''ve always believed that I never get what I want. The people I love always leave me eventually. It happened way too often.

    So, if you''re bing my daughter-inw, it means my wish finally came true. For once, I got what I wanted.

    This is a very long letter and all I wrote is nonsense. But honestly speaking, I didn''t know what to write so I just wrote my thoughts to you. I hope you can give some love to my son and I assure you, he will return it tenfolds to you. No a hundred thousandfold back to you. My son is most like me, that''s why I worry about him so much.

    We both are emotional beings and we both suffer because of this trait. So, I hope you can help him a little in changing this trait of his. Lastly, be happy. Yup! That''s all, I want. I just want to see you happy.

    Sincerely,

    Qian Yin''

    Raelle felt something stirring inside her. She couldn''t describe it but she knew that this letter was affecting her emotions. She didn''t think her mother-inw was nning so far ahead with several scenarios in mind. Even though she might not have known that one day, this letter would really reach Raelle but she really wasn''t here.

    Before this, Raelle never felt this but for once, she actually hoped that today, it was Qian Yin standing in front of her instead of this letter that she held. Even a rational person like her who epted the cycle of life had an irrational thought what if Qian Yin didn''t die back then? Would things be different?

    "If she didn''t die, who knows if you''d have really married Xian?"

    Raelle looked up at Lu Shun. It seemed she spoke out her thoughts subconsciously.

    "If she was here, it''d be hard to say what today would look like. Don''t you think so, Ms. Raelle?"

    Raelle nodded her head, "Right. The present wouldn''t be the same if something was different in the past."

    "Indeed," said Lu Shun. "You shouldn''t think about this though. You only need to know that the present is what Qian Yin always wanted to see. Even if she isn''t around, she''d be very happy today." He spoke out his thoughts sincerely.

 Chapter 1079 Not Now

    1079 Not Now

    "Can I have the other letter?" asked Raelle.

    Lu Shun shook his head as he responded, "No."

    "Why? That is also written for me," said Raelle.

    "Yes, but the condition to send out that letter doesn''t match," replied Lu Shun professionally. "I was asked to send out only one letter. Whichever one matched the conditions. I can''t give out the other ones. That''s against the instructions I received from my client."

    Even Raelle knew she couldn''t force him to go against his principles. Even if his client was no longer around, he had to respect his client''s wishes.

    "What are you gonna do with that letter?" asked Raelle.

    "I''ll dispose of it properly," replied Lu Shun.

    Raelle nodded her head in understanding. She sat down as she held the letter in her hand and her eyes were stuck on the words written on it. The handwriting on the letter was very delicate and elegant. It had a feminine touch and was beautiful to look at. Somehow, Raelle was able to see the happiness of the person who wrote the letter.

    It just showed how much Qian Yin wanted Raelle to be her daughter-inw.

    "Mr. Lu, may I ask a few things?"

    Lu Shun also sat down and gave her a nod, indicating that she was allowed to ask anything she wanted.

    "You knew myte mother-inw for a long time, right?"

    "Yes," replied Lu Shun. "She wasn''t just a client. She was a friend first."

    "Then why do you think she chose to write this letter to me? Was she really expecting the future to be like this?"

    Lu Shun was silent for a moment but eventually, he decided to share it with her. "Do you know that Qian Yin had long drifted away from her own family?"

    "I know."

    "Then do you know why it was so?"

    "She abandoned everything for love," replied Raelle.

    Lu Shun sighed, "Indeed. She did abandon everything for love and the cost she had to pay in return was too much. She lost everything. Even the love she was fighting for."

    "I know," said Raelle.

    "She believed that she had failed her family and that''s why to umte merits for her parents and her brother whom she failed the most, she started visiting the monastery. She was never a devotee but she became one slowly. If it meant that she could get the forgiveness of the people she hurt because of her recklessness." He looked up at Raelle and added, "She told me that she met an esteemed monk and he told her that there were two marriages in Xian''s destiny. When she learned it, she was very ufortable for a very long time. But it also left her with a hope that perhaps, the second time around, Xian will be able to find you."

    "So, she was prepared for all sorts of scenarios just because of those words from a fortune teller?"

    Lu Shun chuckled, "It seems bizarre that she really believed a fortune teller but she really did. The reason was simple too. She would rather believe in this nonsense than not. Just like she was told long ago that she won''t live long. Her life star wasn''t that bright."

    Raelle looked up at him, "She knew she wasn''t gonna live long?"

    Lu Shun nodded, "Well, those were just words. She always said she doesn''t take them seriously but the truth was, deep down, she nned everything because she believed in those words."

    That exined why she nned so far ahead in time when it waspletely unnecessary to do so. It wasn''t like she died from an illness. It was an ident that took her life but she still seemed to know that she wasn''t gonna be around for long.

    "She lost a lot of people in her life. Her parents, her brother, her first love, and even the person who loved her like her sister. All of this had left a very deep wound in her heart which was hard to get rid of. She did a lot of good deeds in her life but all just to seek forgiveness from all those people whom she lost. After all that, she had a deep-rooted fear in her heart that her happiness neversts. Everything she loves gets taken from her. So, the years she spent with Shui Koshing, she spent in fear. She didn''t want to be too happy because she was afraid that she''d lose everything once again."

    "She became scared of happiness,"mented Raelle.

    "Yes."

    Raelle contemted those words. What a person had to go through to be scared of her own happiness and to actually be superstitious enough to even believe a fortune teller''s words? She actually understood a little. She was scared of happiness and that''s why she believed in the words of the fortune teller that she won''t live long. Because deep down she must have thought that she didn''t deserve happiness and she didn''t deserve to live either after ruining her family''s happiness.

    She never thought herter mother-inw had so much going on. But she kept it all to herself. Raelle didn''t think anyone else knew about these thoughts. Perhaps, not even Shui Koshing.

    "Did she leave anything else for me?" asked Raelle.

    Lu Shun paused and then replied inly, "She did."

    "Can you give it to me?"

    "No," replied Lu Shun. "I''m supposed to give it to you on your wedding day."

    "I''m already married though," replied Raelle. "That just reminded me, it seemed you didn''t know that I and Xian registered our marriage months ago, right? You only learned about rtionships through the news and that''s why you only showed up now."

    "Yes," Lu Shun honestly agreed. He indeed had no clue that Shui Xian and Raelle got married or else he''d have brought the things that Qian Yin entrusted to him long ago. Why would he wait until now? At first, he thought he was justing to the engagement, but after talking to Shui Koshing he learned that Shui Xian and Raelle were already married.

    wedding gift that yourte mother-inw left for you."

    16:08

    Raelle knew better than to argue with awyer. Especially awyer like Lu Shun who was already This engagement was just a formality to announce their rtionship to the world.

    "So? The things that I''m supposed to get on my wedding day? Shouldn''t you give it to me now?"

    "I don''t think so," responded Lu Shun craftily. "Since the world only knows you''re getting engaged now, I''ll follow that too. The day you get married in front of the whole world, I''ll bring you the wedding gift that yourte mother-inw left for you."

    Raelle knew better than to argue with awyer. Especially awyer like Lu Shun who was already getting old. Old gingers were spicier and oldwyers weren''t to be messed with. They always had tricks above their sleeves. They would always find the loopholes in your words and then would y the word game with you. It was pointless to argue.

    So, she epted it calmly.

    "Then can you tell me if she left me another letter?"

    "No, she didn''t," replied Lu Shun but there was a smirk on his lips that Raelle didn''t notice since she lowered her head once she got the reply.

    For some reason, she was actually looking forward to getting another letter or something from Qian Yin. Because that would connect her to Qian Yin a little bit.

    "I should take my leave now," said Lu Shun as he stood up and fixed his suit jacket.

    "You aren''t staying for the engagement? You''re already here," said Raelle. "Since my mother-inw isn''t here, shouldn''t you as a good friend stick around on this day that she looked forward to so desperately?"

    Lu Shun did not expect that he''d hear this from Raelle. It seemed he was no match for Raelle even at this age. This young woman managed to stop all his retorts with that one statement. He couldn''t say that he had to leave because he was busy or anything.

    He could only sigh and then he chuckled, "No wonder, she wanted you as her daughter-inw." He shook his head, "Then I''ll stay."

    With that, he left the waiting room. Behind him, Raelle closed her eyes and tried to recall the face of her mother-inw once again. Those sentimental eyes appeared in her mind and the gentle woman smiled so warmly at her.

    She took out the tiara and looked at it attentively.

    It wasn''t that she hadn''t seen a more beautiful tiara than this. But this one really touched her heart. It was made with love and now, Raelle could see the hope of the person who designed it. Now, it wasn''t just a beautiful, glittering tiara. Now, it was a blessing. Now, it was the hope that Qian Yin had for her.

    "You really left too soon," whispered Raelle. "You didn''t even give me a chance to be a good daughter-inw to you." Raelle caressed the tiara and then she folded the letter on the side before putting it away safely. It was like thest memory from her mother-inw. How could she be careless with it?

 Chapter 1080 My Heart & Soul

    1080 My Heart & Soul

    Lu Shun walked out of the waiting room and found Shui Xian pacing around in the corridor. It seemed he had been waiting here all this while and quite impatiently too. Lu Shun was actually a little surprised to see this restless Shui Xian.

    "Are you guarding the door in fear that I''d bully your wife?"

    Shui Xian faced Lu Shun and shook his head, "No, uncle. That''s not... Anyway, you can''t bully Raelle. The chances of her bullying you are higher."

    Lu Shun chuckled, "You have quite some faith in your wife."

    "She is my wife after all," said Shui Xian proudly. "I wonder what really brought you here today?"

    "Your mom sent me here," replied Lu Shun making Shui Xian raise his brow in response. "Your mom left something with me for her daughter-inw."

    Shui Xian frowned at that, "You didn''t bring anything when I got married for the first time around."

    "How is that so? I delivered the properties and other assets that your mother left for her daughter-inw to Tang Hebe back then too. Your mom was biased toward Raelle but she was still fair. No one can im that she didn''t give Tang Hebe what she deserved as the daughter-inw of the Shui family."

    "Yes, but you only offered those things after the marriage. You didn''t appear at the wedding," said Shui Xian.

    Lu Shun shrugged, "Still, I delivered what I was supposed to deliver." Lu Shun looked at Shui Xian and added, "But those things were for your wife actually. Because you and I both know that Qian Yin would have never epted Tang Hebe as her daughter-inw. What she left to her was just because she was your wife. Now, on the other hand, the things I delivered are for Qian Yin''s daughter-inw. Not your wife."

    Shui Xian bit his lips, "I really let her down while she was alive."

    "I won''t say that," said Lu Shun. He took out another envelope and gave it to Shui Xian. "This letter is for you. From your mother."

    Shui Xian''s eyes widened when he saw the letter and looked at Lu Shun incredulously. "Why didn''t you give it to me when you read out her will?"

    "Because the conditions didn''t meet back then," replied Lu Shun. "Yin left very specific instructions. I can''t make choices on my own."

    Shui Xian actually took the letter with his trembling hands. He didn''t understand why he was shaking all of a sudden but he couldn''t stop it. He felt a little choked up and didn''t dare open the letter.

    "Thank you foring, Uncle Shun," said Shui Xian.

    Lu Shun smiled politely in response.

    Even when he left, Shui Xian couldn''t bring himself to open the letter in his hands. He held it against his chest and entered the room. He found Raelle standing in front of the mirror with a tiara in her hands. She obviously didn''t have it before. It meant it must be a gift from his mother to her.

    He had to say it was a befitting gift for Raelle.

    "Wife," he called out and Raelle turned around.

    "Ma sent me a gift," said Raelle and Shui Xian was stunned.

    Ma? He couldn''t believe she actually called his mother so intimately. He knew she called B¨¤ only after she epted him from her heart. And now, it seemed she had epted his mother too from her heart. It wasn''t that she didn''t ept her before. It was just that Qian Yin wasn''t around so Raelle didn''t feel much about her.

    She didn''t even feel her absence in their family because to her, from the beginning, Qian Yin wasn''t around. So, she had very vague feelings.

    "Why don''t you put it on me?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head and walked over. He took the tiara from her hands and then put it carefully on her head. He turned her around to face the mirror and asked, "How is it?"

    "I like it," she replied.

    "Me too," said Shui Xian. "Mom really chose the perfect gift for you. It shows how much she loved you."

    "I think she loved you a lot more," was Raelle''s response. She held his hand and asked, "You''re missing her?"

    "I am," replied Shui Xian. "This engagement of ours was her dream. I believe she''d have been the happiest on this day. And she might have taken over the top like Mu Chenyan." He suddenly went silent and with a bitter smile he added, "It''s such a shame that she isn''t here to see her dreame true."

    Raelle hugged him as she said, "Wherever she is, she''d still be happy to see that her dream ising true. She just wanted to see you happy. I think she hardly had her own interests or happiness in mind." She paused before saying, "I miss her too. I think I''d have loved to have a mother-inw like her in my life."

    Shui Xian sniffled and asked, "Did she write a letter to you too?"

    "Yes," replied Raelle. "She wrote a letter that made me realize just how passionate she was about the idea of having me as her daughter-inw. It wasn''t just her obsession. It was her heartfelt wish. I also realized that after losing so much in her life, she didn''t want her son to go through the same."

    "But she and I both couldn''t fight our destiny," said Shui Xian. "We both walked the same path and we both suffered. She used to say that I took after her and her wish was that my destiny isn''t like hers. However, I really took after her and even took over her destiny." He looked at Raelle, "Don''t worry, I still remember your words. I''ll still live happily to make sure she doesn''t get sad. If she wanted me to be happy, that''s exactly what I''m gonna be."

    "It''s good to know that you aren''t taking things too hard again."

    "Isn''t it all because I have a supporting wife like you?"

    "I''ll happily take the credit then."

    "You have my heart and soul. What more a little credit?"

    "Don''t continue," said Raelle.

    "Okay," he agreed.

 Chapter 1081 [Bonus chapter] People Have To Go

    1081 [Bonus chapter] People Have To Go

    "Are you adding back luck on this happy day?"

    Shui Koshing looked up when he heard Mu Chenyan''s voice and frowned, "Who is adding back luck?"

    "You are, Shing Ge," said Mu Chenyan. "Why are you shedding tears? Are you marrying off your daughter? No! That''s me! Do you see me crying? No! It''s your son who is getting married. Do you have to cry about that?"

    "First of all, it''s an engagement," reminded Shui Koshing. "Secondly, I''m not crying because of that."

    "Then why are you shedding tears here sitting alone in this corner?"

    Shui Koshing took a deep breath, "I am missing my wife. Am I not allowed to do so? Is it so wrong to miss my wife on this day? And since I miss her, of course, a few tears wille out. Do you think it''s embarrassing that an old man like me is crying? Well, guess what? I don''t feel embarrassed at all!"

    Mu Chenyan didn''t expect this outburst from the usually easygoing Shui Koshing but considering what he just said, she understood why he acted this way. She sighed heavily and sat down beside him. She even took out a tissue and offered it to him.

    "What now? Are you offering pity or your shoulder to cry on?"

    "I can offer both if you want me to," said Mu Chenyan. "But for now, I''m offering my silent support." As Shui Koshing wiped his tears, Mu Chenyan''s hand patted his back, "Ge, you can cry if you want to. Don''t take my previous words seriously. But just a reminder that your wife wouldn''t have wanted to see you cry."

    "I know," he replied. "But can I help it? If she didn''t want me to cry then she should have been here."

    "It''s not like she could control the fate," said Mu Chenyan.

    "I know that too," he responded. "I was holding back since this morning. But when herwyer came and told me that she actually nned far ahead as if she knew she wasn''t gonna be around, it really made me hurt even more. Why did she have to leave?"

    "Ge, people have to leave," Mu Chenyan''s expression turned heavy. "You know I didn''t feel much when my parents died. After all, I was young at that time and didn''t understand death that clearly. And also because my godmother gave me so much love that I didn''t feel their absence. However, when my godmother died, I bawled my eyes out. She wasn''t sick or anything but all of a sudden, things went wrong, and to save Raelle, she got hurt." She took a brief pause and added, "I actually do understand what you''re feeling right now. But when my godmother left, she ced a small baby into my arms as if she was giving me a reason to live again. Your wife left you two children too. You have to remember that she was able to peacefully close her eyes because she knew you''d be there for your children."

    "Chenyan, I''m older than you."

    "But that doesn''t mean you need some pep talk once in a while," was Mu Chenyan''s response. "I understand that whatever I said, you already knew it. But knowing it and someone reminding you of it are two separate things. You needed a reminder of why you''re here." She offered him aforting smile, "And the reason why she isn''t here is that her journey on this earth wasn''t supposed to be so long."

    Shui Koshing slowly calmed down while Mu Chenyan apanied him in silence. As she said, she was offering silent support. She knew how lonely Shui Koshing had been. And that was the reason why Raelle even told her to invite Shui Koshing over to Xiang Manor often for meals or just for a chat. Because it wasn''t good for Shui Koshing to always stay alone.

    But this man really isted himself from the world after his wife''s death.

    He was the groomed heir of the Shui family. Things were too hard on him since he was young and his biggest happiness in life was when he managed to woo Qian Yin. He looked like he won the lottery. So to say that the happiest time of Shui Koshing''s life was spent with Qian Yin wouldn''t be wrong.

    That''s why it was obvious why he missed her so much.

    "You know she left letters for Raelle and Xian," mentioned Shui Koshing. "But she didn''t leave anything for me."

    Mu Chenyan chuckled, "Are you crying because you didn''t get any present? Ge, when did you get so childish? How can you even be jealous of two kids?"

    "Well, I am jealous! So what? My wife didn''t leave me a letter! Shouldn''t I be jealous?"

    Mu Chenyanughed, "Okay. Then how about we visit her one of these days and you canin to her all you want."

    "Of course, I will," he said. "I won''t let this go. How can she actually forget me?"

    Mu Chenyan shook her head at him and said, "Shing Ge, you''re cute."

    "Chenyan."

    "Yes?"

    "Stopughing."

    "I can''t."

    "You''re dressed so beautifully today. Don''t ruin your image byughing like this."

    "I never gave a damn about the so called image."

    Shui Koshing sighed and stood up, "Whatever! Why did youe here?"

    "I was looking for you," said Mu Chenyan. "Ipletely forgot. Elder Xiang sent me to get you. He said to start the function already. Also, you have guests who are looking for you. Don''t hide here. It''s your son''s engagement. You have to take the stage."

    "It''s my son''s engagement. Why do I have to take the stage?"

    "Because you''re the groom''s one and only father!"

    "Do people have more than one father?"

    "Yes!" responded Mu Chenyan seriously. "I have. One is my biological father. The other raised me. It''s just that I don''t call him father. But he definitely takes the role of a father in my life."

    Shui Koshing understood that she was talking about Elder Xiang so he didn''tment on it. He went back to the hall with her while she kept on chattering in his ear. He knew she was trying to distract him from depressing thoughts but he was only getting annoyed by her constant chatter.

 Chapter 1082 This Is My Mom

    1082 This Is My Mom

    When Xiang Weimin met his father along with Justin, he noticed how Xiang Hulin''s eyes were on Justin for a long time. He had a probing look in his eyes and when he looked back at Xiang Weimin, he could see a faint anger and reproach in those eyes.

    Xiang Weimin did not understand the meaning behind it at all.

    So, he didn''t take it to heart either.

    He finally saw his mother entering the venue and went to greet her. "Mom," he greeted.

    Song Xin''ai looked at her son and smiled slightly, "You''re here."

    "Why wouldn''t I be here?"

    "Right. You should be here," said Song Xin''ai.

    Xiang Weimin shook his head at her awkward reaction and said, "Took you a while toe inside."

    Song Xin''ai stiffened for a moment. It seemed she wasn''t doing a good job at hiding. Or perhaps, she underestimated her own children. How could she avoid them? They''d definitely know that she had been here for a long time but just couldn''t gather her courage to step inside.

    "Come, I''ll take you to grandfather," said Xiang Weimin.

    Song Xin''ai''s body tensed up even more at the mention of Elder Xiang. "I''ll see himter."

    Xiang Weimin didn''t let her off, "Mom, you are already here. You can''t avoid him. Since your decided toe inside, it''s better to just greet grandfather. Trust me, he doesn''t bite. Not at all."

    "When did I say he bites?" Song Xin''ai gave him an angry look.

    Xiang Weimin smiled, "I know, you didn''t say it. In fact, you always told us how loving our grandfather was. It''s us who didn''t believe your words."

    "I''ll greet him, let me take a moment," said Song Xin''ai.

    "You took long enough," said Xiang Weimin. "Look around. You''re thest person to show up. Dad was the first person toe and you''re thest toe. Don''t you think there is something wrong with this equation?"

    Song Xin''ai shook her head, "Hulin likes to be on time. How can he ever bete? And there are actually a lot of things wrong with the equation in our family. After all, we are a family just in name. So, when Ie doesn''t really matter."

    Xiang Weimin couldn''t possibly refute those words.

    Suddenly, he felt someone hugging his leg and he looked down at Justin. "Where did you go?" He asked softly to the little man who was very active today. He was stuck to his side since he came but ran away when Xiang Weimin came to see Song Xin''ai. Only now did hee back.

    "I went to see mom," replied Justin in a milky sweet voice. Although he liked Xiang Weimin and wanted to be with him, he still had to care about his mother''s feelings. So, this little man went to take a look at his mother and only came back after he saw Tang Hebe.

    Xiang Weimin held his hand and said, "Okay. But tell me when you want to go anywhere next time."

    "Okay," agreed Justin sweetly.

    In front of them, Song Xin''ai was dumbfounded. Not just because her son was being so gentle. But also because of the little child with him. She looked at Justin and then at Xiang Weimin. Her eyes moved from the face of the bigger one to the face of the younger one.

    She was the mother of Xiang Weimin and if Mu Chenyan and Elder Xiang could see the simrities, it wasn''t like she was blind. She could obviously see it too!

    Her son had a son of his own and she didn''t have any idea!

    Was she that oblivious to the matters of her children now? When did it even happen? Why didn''t she hear about it? Did Xiang Weimin hide it from her on purpose?

    She stopped her brain from running over speed and calmed down her breathing. She thought about it rationally once again. And then she realized that it was impossible for Xiang Weimin to hide something this big from her.

    Although they had a very formal rtionship as mother and son, Xiang Weimin was a little old-fashioned. So, since young, he''d always call her before making any big decisions in his life. For instance, when he wanted to join the Air Force, even though he already had made up his mind. He still called her and informed her about it and even discussed it in detail.

    So, hiding about a child was a big no-no!

    She looked at Xiang Weimin once more and a possibility came to her mind. ''Her son also didn''t know that he had a son of his own.''

    And she actually was more inclined to believe in this possibility.

    "Weimin, who is he?" asked Song Xin''ai trying to keep her expression in check so that her curiosity wouldn''t be so obvious.

    "This is Justin," replied Xiang Weimin. "Justin, this is my mom."

    Justin actually looked at Song Xin''ai curiously. He was very interested in the mother of Xiang Weimin. After all, he liked Xiang Weimin so he wanted to see his mom too. He thought that since he loved his mother so much, Xiang Weimin must love his mother too so he was extra polite and seemed obedient in front of Song Xin''ai.

    Song Xin''ai''s face softened and her heart melted when she saw him acting so adorably.

    Aiyo! Her son wasn''t this cute when he was young!

    Since Xiang Weimin''s temperament was more like his father, so even though his face was simr to Justin''s when he was young, he wasn''t as cute as Justin was. At least that was Song Xin''ai opinion. She looked at Justin lovingly and asked, "Where is your mother, little baby?"

    "She is sitting over there," Justin pointed in a direction with his small finger.

    Song Xin''ai looked over but because of so many people she couldn''t see his mother. It was a shame but she would just wait patiently. She had to see which woman gave birth to a son for Xiang Weimin.

 1083 [Bonus chapter] A Good Day

    1083 [Bonus chapter] A Good Day

    After the greeting session at the door, Hyson returned to stay with Grandfather Xiang. Grandfather Zhai and Grandmother Zhai came to greet Grandfather Xiang.

    "Old Xiang, you''re really fortunate," said Grandfather Zhai heartily. "Your granddaughter is getting engaged. If Old Shui was alive, he''d actually be over the moon to know how your two families are being connected."

    "Yes, I''m very fortunate," replied Grandfather Xiang as if he didn''t notice the subtle hint in his old friend''s words.

    "Old fox, you really want me to spell it out for you?"

    Grandfather Xiangughed at that, "I''m a straightforward person and so is everyone in my family. It''s you schrs who love to talk in circles. We military people just get to the point. So, I can''t understand your hints at all."

    Grandfather Zhai gave his old friend a disgruntled look.

    Grandmother Zhai held back her husband as she took the lead, "Brother Xiang, you''re also a friend of Old Zhai. I believe the rtionship between you two is even longer and stronger than Old Shui who is no more. Then why don''t you think about making our families'' bond stronger?" She took a look at Grandfather Xiang''s face before continuing, "I believe you have the same intention. Besides, I heard that both the children really like each other. We should strengthen their rtionship by making it official. Don''t you think so?"

    Grandfather Xiang sighed, "Sister, it''s you so I''ll be honest with you. I have no issue as long as the kids are happy. Why would an old soul whose one leg is already in the grave even interfere in their matters? Raelle is an exception in my life and I can rightfully interfere in her matters. But the same is not true for others. As long as Wai brings this matter to me, I have no problem at all."

    "Opa, don''t talk nonsense!" came Hyson''s unhappy voice from behind Grandfather Xiang. He didn''t want to interfere. Besides, he had nothing to talk about between these old people. So, he kept his distance and sat aside obediently. Who knew he''d hear Grandfather Xiang talking about having his one leg in the grave? He couldn''t help chiming in. "Today is a special day. Do you have to talk about unlucky things? How can you talk about dying? That''s not epted!"

    Grandfather Xiang was helpless and nodded, "Okay, okay. It''s my mistake. I won''t repeat anything regarding this."

    "I''m watching you," was Hyson''s response and he even made the hand gesture to emphasize how he was keeping his eyes on this old man.

    Grandfather Xiang smiled softly and Hyson went back to sit where he had been sitting before. He actually was keeping an eye on the situation here as well. Originally he thought Zhai Kuijun would have told his parents about him but it seemed that he hadn''t. This made Hyson actually rx. He didn''t want to deal with old people. Because it was difficult for him to be stubborn or rude to old people.

    So, the best option was to avoid them.

    On the other hand, Grandmother Zhai was happy and rxed to hear that from Grandfather Xiang and asked, "Then why don''t you talk to Wai? Today is a good day to make an announcement."

    "What''s the hurry?" asked Grandfather Xiang. "This is Raelle''s day. No one can take her limelight. We''ll talk about it after Raelle''s wedding."

    "Huh? We still have to wait for the wedding?" asked Grandmother Zhai. "Can''t we start talking about it earlier? At least, they can get engaged right after Raelle, no? This would have no conflict with each other. And who knows they might decide to get married on the same day."

    "Sister-inw, don''t dream big," said Grandfather Xiang. "I might have not raised Wai, but I still know her. She''d never agree to get married on the same day as Raelle. After all, she only has one sister, how will she enjoy her wedding if she became the bride on the same day?"

    "You''re making excuses, old fox," said Grandfather Zhai. "Why don''t you first ask her?"

    "Why don''t you go ask your grandson first?" retorted Grandfather Xiang. "Who knows if he wants toe over to our family to ask for Wai''s hands? What if he ditched her as he did with Raelle?"

    Behind him, Hyson covered his mouth andughed when he heard that. Indeed, Opa also held grudges for years toe. He had to bring that up at this moment. It was so funny to listen to these old people''s conversations. He was quite entertained. He didn''t feel the need to go and socialize with people at all.

    "Then what do you suggest?" asked Grandmother Zhai as she couldn''t push this matter. She also knew that deep down Grandfather Xiang was still upset with Zhai Yanjun. So, even though he liked Zhai Yanjun, he definitely was careful when the matter came to his own granddaughter.

    He could be careless with his grandson''s matters but he was especially careful when it came to his precious granddaughters.

    "I say, we should wait," said Grandfather Xiang. "Don''t rush things. The rtionship between the kids is on track and seems to be getting stronger. So, we should give them time to cultivate more feelings. We shouldn''t interfere. It''s not like our times. Besides, do I have to remind you two that even in our times, you both created a whole lot of fuss to get married to each other?"

    Grandfather Zhai and Grandmother Zhai avoided his eyes when he brought up that old matter. How embarrassing it was to talk about it at this age.

    "You both were quite dissatisfied with your parents for rushing you to marry. Why are you doing this to your own grandson? When he feels like it''s the right time, he''lle to you and talk about his marriage. We''ll discuss it then."

    "But..."

    Grandfather Xiang didn''t let Grandmother Zhai speak as he added, "Also, Wai and Yanjun are gonna have the first dance tonight since Raelle can''t dance. So, seeing them dancing together, everyone will already know that they are official and have their families'' blessings. Why are you both getting so impatient with age? Stop bothering me now."

 1084 In My Birthday Suit

    1084 In My Birthday Suit

    The engagement venue was bustling with people. The guests invited to this engagement had a special status in society and were well respected. These people often didn''t even gather in the same ce and now that all of them were in the same room, the news reporters were trying their best to get a glimpse of the situation inside.

    Some of them even tried to squeeze in by ying their usual tricks like acting like a waiter or even bribing the staff to get in. However, everything was useless since the security of this ce was top-notch.

    How could Mu Chenyan ck regarding the privacy of her guests and her own family?

    And because this was Xia Zhao''s hotel, there was an addedyer of security.

    When it was time, the emcee took the stage to get everyone''s attention. The role of the emcee tonight was taken over by Xiang Wai. Even she didn''t think she''d one day willingly y this role. But it was her sister''s engagement, and she didn''t want to shirk away her responsibility, especially since Raelle.

    First of all, she had to invite the elder of the family to the stage and that was Grandfather Xiang who was helped to the stage by Hyson. And then Grandfather Xiang greeted the guests, "Good evening everyone! I am honored to stand before you all today as we gather to celebrate the engagement of my beloved granddaughter, Raelle. As I look at her and her fianc¨¦, Shui Xian, I am filled with joy and gratitude for the love and happiness they share.

    It seems just like yesterday when she was just a little girl and now she is a grown woman. She has grown up to be my pride.

    I know life has a lot of obstacles and challenges but I''m certain that Raelle and Xian can ovee them together with their love. I have no doubt that they''d stand by each other''s side no matter what they face.

    So, let''s raise a ss to wish them a lifetime of happiness, love, and prosperity! May their love continue to grow stronger with each passing day.

    Cheers!"

    When he got off the stage, Hyson couldn''t help leaning towards him as he asked, "Opa, did you practice that?"

    Grandfather Xiang knocked on his head, "Why do I need to practice? I just said whatever came to my mind. That Chenyan didn''t even tell me she was gonna call me on stage. I''d have done a better job if I knew that this was gonna happen." He sighed in regret making Hyson amused at his look. "Actually, I had a lot more to say but I thought it''d get too personal and there was no need to get this person in front of these guests. I''ll just say those words to my Yenay when we are at home."

    Hyson chuckled, "That''s what I was thinking. You''re being too formal. But you did a good job."

    After this speech, Raelle and Shui Xian entered the venue hand in hand. Everyone''s eyes followed this golden couple. They seemed to be sparkling brighter than the lights around them.

    The women''s eyes were stuck on Raelle''s attire and were glowing with jealousy as they looked at the sapphire ne around her neck. They couldn''t take their eyes off her at all. Since women naturally have an interest in jewelry and clothing, so most of them did recognize the sapphire ne. And although they couldn''t recognize the design of the tiara Raelle wore, it didn''t stop them from taking a few extra looks because of the fine workmanship.

    Only the people in business had seen Raelle in real life while their partners were seeing Raelle for 23:41

    the very first time. They had to agree that the photos that were leaked on the inte before really didn''t do justice to this ice queen.

    And even Shui Xian didn''t call her smile ugly today but he could actually see that this smile on her lips wasn''t just a show. She was really trying her best to smile sincerely.

    After all, it wouldn''t look good to keep a nk face in the photos.

    Even Raelle felt that people might assume she was being forced to get engaged that''s why she did her best to smile. She had to say, her years of efforts seemed to be paying off a little. Even she''d see that her smile wasn''t as forced as before.

    As they got on stage, they said a few words to the guests. Well, it was mostly Shui Xian who was grinning happily and thanking everyone foring to bless them on their engagement. Raelle wasn''t interested in talking so much and no one would mind that she only said a few words.

    "Now, let''s exchange the rings," announced Xiang Wai.

    The couple exchanged the rings and everyone cheered.

    While putting on the ring, Shui Xian said softly to her, "This is our new beginning."

    "Why? You got bored already so you want a new beginning now?"

    Shui Xian was speechless at her remark.

    Raelle noticed the way his veins ticked and said, "Sorry. I just couldn''t hold back the retort. I know you don''t mean that."

    "Raelle, you''re being wicked," said Shui Xian.

    Raelle whispered in response, "Then how about you make me obedient?"

    Shui Xian''s ears turned red as he understood the meaning behind her words and almost bit his own tongue at that moment. What the hell! Did she have to tease him in front of the hundred or so guests? It was so embarrassing!

    Raelle obviously didn''t think so and was acting as if nothing happened.

    Shui Xian took a deep breath, "You just wait. I''ll show you once we get back home."

    "I''ll be waiting," replied Raelle. "In my birthday suit."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and raised his hand to touch the tip of his nose so as the hide the emotions Only the people in business had seen Raelle in real life while their partners were seeing Raelle for the very first time. They had to agree that the photos that were leaked on the inte before really Surprisingly though, this ice queen had a small smile on her lips tonight.

    he was going through. He looked at her innocent look and shook his head. He so wanted to take her down right there.

    He knew she was doing it on purpose again.

    They were just talking about his mother earlier and he was feeling down. How could Raelle not see that he was still a bit blue even after talking to her? And being the ever-ready Raelle, she took it upon herself to tease him to make him feel better.

    "Behave yourself," said Shui Xian. "We have guests."

    "That''s what I want to say too."

    Both of them looked at Xiang Wai who had slid to their side and whispered, "Can you both pay attention? This is your engagement! You''re on stage! Don''t be lost in your own world! You can do that at home."

    She was really hyper right now. She was doing such a good job at being an emcee but this couple wasn''t even cooperating with her. How could they just get lost in their own world while the engagement ceremony was ongoing? Couldn''t they see how everyone was looking at them? Although everyone had a smile on their faces, still this couple needed to learn propriety!

    "I hope Wai doesn''t lose it,"mented Mu Chenyan.

    "Rx, aunt! She''ll be fine," assured Xiang Weimin. "For Raelle, Wai can be very patient. Trust me."

    "Let''s hope so," said Mu Chenyan and instantly shook her head. "No, I should have faith in my niece. She can do it. I warned her to be patient with Raelle and Xian. After all, how can I not know these two? How could having a hundred or so people gathered here for them be any of their concerns? They''d still find time to build their own little world filled with bubbles of love."

    Hyson chuckled when he heard that. "Who chose Wai Jie?" he asked. "Why her of all people?"

    "Because you didn''t want to do it," said Xiang Weimin and Mu Chenyan simultaneously.

    Hyson rubbed his nose, "I just didn''t think the role would suit me." Then he grinned, "Well, anyway, I''m gratified to see my Ellie and Xian Ge being so in love."

    "Lose that old grandpa smile," said Zhai Yanjun.

    Hyson turned to Grandfather Xiang, "Opa, see what he said! He called me old grandpa! Isn''t he insulting you indirectly?"

    Zhai Yanjun gasped and hurriedly shook his head in front of Grandfather Xiang, "Granduncle, you know I didn''t mean that."

    "You should be careful with your words these days, Captain," said Hyson. "After all, you want the daughter of our family. Offending any one of us will be dangerous for you."

    Grandfather Xiangughed heartily at that, "Indeed. Our family''s little prince is right, Captain Zhai. Be careful. We hold grudges."

    Zhai Yanjun felt like crying. Why did he have to tease Hyson of all people and that too in front of the Xiang family''s members? Now, he shot himself on the foot. He was the most pitiful one because they were all right. He was the one who wanted the daughter of their family. He had to be sincere and humble or he''d be kicked out.

    Or worse, Mu Chenyan mighte after him with a rolling pin again

 Chapter 1085 Meant To Be

    Chapter 1085 Meant To Be

    One had to say that a lot was already going on in this engagement. However, it didn''t concern Raelle and Xian at all. They were really in their own world on the stage.

    Before Xiang Wai could lose thest shred of her patience she said, "How about we have this beautiful couple say a few words to each other?"

    "This was not in the script," mentioned Mu Chenyan.

    Xiang Weimin shook his head, "It seems Raelle and Xian ticked her off a little with theirck of interest in her."

    "Pfft." Hysonughed out loud. "I should feel bad for Major but I don''t."

    On the stage, Xiang Wai had no clue what her family was talking about as her eyes were on Raelle and Xian right now looking very innocent. As if she didn''t just take the matters into her own hands and added a new item to the script. Even though she knew how much Raelle disliked troublesome things.

    "Let''s start with my little brother-inw, Shui Xian," started Xiang Wai as she turned to Shui Xian. "Why don''t you tell us a little about what you like about my sister?"

    She offered the mic to Shui Xian who took 8t and then gave her a look before turning to look into Raelle''s eyes. The look in his eyes became gentle once they looked into Raelle''s eyes.

    "What do I like about Raelle? That''s easy. Everything. But the thing that really made me attracted to her was her unconventional way of speech."

    Those who had business dealings with Raelle could actually understand what Shui Xian meant by Raelle''s unconventional way of speech. After all, there was none of her business partners who didn''t get attacked by her words at least once. That was a conservative number.

    "She made me believe in love all over again," added Shui Xian. "She made me look at things differently and even changed my idea of love. So, as I said, I really like everything about her. There is nothing not to like."

    In his opinion, if anyone thought there was something not to like about Raelle then it was a problem with that person. Raelle was perfect. She was perfection!

    Xiang Wai smiled at him. She knew it''d be easy for Shui Xian. He was a romantic soul. She believed he could talk about Raelle for hours without getting tired. He was holding himself back a lot right now in front of these people. After all, he couldn''t damage all of his image as the Master Xian known in the business world.

    Although Xiang Wai believed that seeing his silly and lovestruck look towards Raelle was already enough to ruin his image in front of these people, of course, she won''t say anything regarding that right now.

    She turned to Raelle and smirked. Now, this was the real target she had in mind, "Little sister, what about you? What made you decide that you want to spend your whole life with him? What made you get on your one knee for him?"

    Raelle took the mic from her and said, "His smile."

    "Huh?" Xiang Wai was dumbfounded while Shui Xian had a knowing smile on his face.

    "It was his smile that made me look at him at first but then slowly, he became a part of my life. Someone without whom, something seemed missing in my life. Everyone knows that I''m a little slow when ites to emotions. So it took a little time to realize that somehow along the way, Xian became my definition of love. If he''s the only definition of my love, why should I hesitate? All I had to do was get on my knee to propose. And I did."

    Xiang Wai momentarily didn''t know why but she was lost. You see this was the difference between her and Raelle. She thought too much while Raelle might be slow with feelings but she clearly knew what she wanted. And once she decided on what she wanted, she''d do anything to get that.

    While she spent years trying to make sense of her own love, Raelle took action the moment she figured out her feelings. In a way, it seemed Raelle was the more courageous one between them. So what if she had faced death without hesitation plenty of times? She couldn''t even face her feelings for the longest time.

    "I hope you both stay in love for the decades toe," said Xiang Wai sincerely.

    Tang Hebe actually had a rxed smile on her face as she looked at the beautiful couple on the stage. Hearing their answers, she felt a bit bitter in her heart as she looked down on herself for not being as courageous as Raelle but at the same time, she was truly happy for the couple on the stage. She didn''t think she loved Shui Xian any less but she had her own obsessions. Maybe her love was tinged with stubbornness and rebellion that she felt toward everyone who didn''t want them to be together. Whether it was Shui Xian''s mother or her own family.

    But Raelle''s love didn''t have so many thoughts. She just loved Shui Xian. As she said, it was his smile that ensnared her and she decided to stay. And once you decide to stay, it''s difficult not to fall for Shui Xian. She was more than familiar with what Shui Xian was.

    He made it very easy for people to love him with his thoughtfulness, his sincerest emotions, his loyalty, his care, and his love. How could Raelle escape?

    Tang Hebe didn''t think anyone could escape when they meet aplete package like Shui Xian.

    "Are you really that happy?"

    Tang Hebe peeled her eyes away from the stage and looked at the person who came to sit beside her. She was a little surprised to see Amiah. But she instantly got over it. It was Shui Xian''s engagement how could his sister not be there? Even if their rtionship wasn''t like before, she didn''t think Shui Xian would forget his sister on such an important day of his.

    "Hello, Amiah!" Greeted Tang Hebe. "And to answer your question, I am indeed very happy."

    "How? And why?" Inquired Amiah curiously. It was a genuine curiosity. She had witnessed the burning passion that Tang Hebe and Shui Xian had for each other back then. They were like balls of fire, willing to burn everything in the way of their love. But now, one of them stood on the stage with another person and the other was here smiling so happily. She couldn''t understand them at all.

    "This is a happy asion, I should be happy."

    "But that''s your ex-husband," Amiah pointed out.

    "Do you know how many years it has been since we got divorced?" Asked Tang Hebe in return. "Why should I be hung up on our failed marriage? He has his life, I have my own. We both have the right to move on. And I really don''t want to be known as Shui Xian''s ex-wife for all my life and neither would he like to be called my ex-husband when his current wife is standing right with him"

    "I didn''t expect this response from you," said Amiah as she leaned back in her chair and contemted the words that Tang Hebe just said. It seemed she was the only one who felt odd and was stuck in the past.

    Everyone else had moved on in their lives. Whether it was Shui Xian or Tang Hebe or even her own father. They had all managed to ept the past and look beyond it. They were all living in the present while looking forward to a hopeful future.

    It was only she who was still stuck in the past. She was really stuck in the past even now.

    "You''re not the only one," replied Tang Hebe. "When I told my friends from school and college that I''m attending Shui Xian''s engagement party, they all thought I was gonna crash his engagement and make a scene. I really don''t understand it. Do I look like a troublemaker? I might be insensible at times but I haven''t lost my brain to the point of wanting to ruin Xian''s big day. If I had any bad feelings regarding this engagement, I wouldn''t have epted Raelle''s invitation."

    "Raelle was the one who invited you?" Asked Amiah in surprise. "Why? Don''t tell me she wanted to show off in front of you."

    Tang Hebe shook her head at Amiah, "You really don''t know her at all. Raelle isn''t that petty even if she acts like it sometimes. Her heart is like a child''s. Innocent, clean, and pure. She has no evil feelings for anyone in this world. Not even for the ones who hurt her." She had a sweet and heartfelt smile on her face when she talked about Raelle. It couldn''t be helped. No matter how Raelle tried to provoke her, Tang Hebe actually understood Raelle''s intentions very well. She actually had no hate or dislike towards her. It was just that Raelle had a problem with the fact that she hurt Xian back then. So she tried in her own ways to hurt Tang Hebe.

    Tang Hebe didn''t hold it against her either. After all, when Raelle did it, it showed how much Shui Xian meant to her. She wanted to avenge him even if he had gotten over that pain.

    If anything she felt envious of this love. And she knew they both knew how to cherish the person they loved so they were the perfect match.

    She didn''t know why people were expecting her to cry or make a scene. Just because Shui Xian was moving on, she had to feel like he did something wrong. She didn''t think so. Deep down, she still thought of Shui Xian as a very dear friend. After all, nothing could change the fact that they were childhood friends. This friendship couldn''t possibly be forsaken.

    "Don''t always live in your own world and look at people with prejudice," said Tang Hebe to Amiah. "Sometimes you need to learn to see the world through others'' eyes. It''s a beautiful world. You might not understand it now but you will eventually."

    "You have gotten good at talking,"mented Amiah. "You know I thought you''d be the only sister-inw of mine. I was only willing to ept you as my sister-inw. I even told my mom about this."

    Tang Hebe smiled bitterly at that. She didn''t know what to say to this stubborn girl. Couldn''t she see that Raelle and Xian were meant to be?

 Chapter 1086 Dont Wrong Myself

    1086 Don''t Wrong Myself

    "I think you are just being stubborn," responded Tang Hebe.

    "No," said Amiah. "I''m not saying that anything is wrong with Raelle. Yes, I don''t have a great first impression of hers since we met in such circumstances where it was really difficult for me to have any good feelings for her. But what I am unable to make peace with is that... I have seen how much my Ge loved you. I am not able to understand if love is so easily reced."

    "It can be reced," was Tang Hebe''s answer. "If you find an even better person. Take your mother''s example. Didn''t she find your father even after a heartbreak? Actually, it didn''t mean that my uncle was the wrong guy for her or they loved each other any less. It was just not meant to be. And not only that, my uncle might be the right guy but Uncle Shing turned out to be a better one for your mother."

    Amiah was momentarily speechless. She did not expect that Tang Hebe would actually talk about herte mother and even talk about her love history so casually now. It was recently that she learned about these love entanglements of her own mother but she was still unable to figure out how she felt about it all. And now, Tang Hebe was actually using it as an example to tell her that there was always a better person out there for you.

    You don''t have to hang on to one person for life stubbornly.

    "Should I say you''ve gotten wiser after the near-death experience?"

    Tang Hebe smiled and shook her head, "Not really. I understood a lot after I walked out of the protection that Xian offered to me. It made me grow up and face the world differently. Also, with Justin around, I learned to be courageous. I can''t be too dumb or else my son will be embarrassed by his own mother. That won''t be good."

    "Don''t you resent my mom?"

    "I don''t know," said Tang Hebe honestly. "I did resent her at one point in my life. But the thing is, our failed marriage had nothing to do with her. If anything, she had just predicted this end long before it happened. I was actually quite envious of Xian and you when we were young because I''d seen how much Auntie loved you both. Even if she was an independent, capable, career woman. It seemed like her life revolved around her two kids. She poured her heart and soul into you too. My mother barely even knew what grade I was in, but your mother would always take time out to make sure she knew about your progress in your studies and your hobbies. She never forced you to do things or act in a certain way. So, I actually admired her a lot too. Even if she never epted me as her daughter-inw." Tang Hebe sighed, "I can''t even me her for not epting me. At least, she never hated me as a person. She knew I wasn''t as courageous as her to leave everything behind and choose Xian."

    "But you did that," Amiah pointed out.

    "No. I only thought I was being courageous. In truth, I wasn''t able to leave everything behind. If I had been able to do it, I wouldn''t have fallen into the scheme my own family concocted for me." She suddenly stopped talking and hurriedly said, "Why did you distract me? Do you think it''s the right asion to even have this discussion? It''s your brother''s engagement, pay attention."

    "I don''t think I''m needed."

    Tang Hebe sneered, "And whose fault is that?"

    Amiah gave her a look but didn''t speak anything in response.

    "Some people look more like a family even without a blood rtion and some can''t be family even when they have a blood rtion," said Tang Hebe. "You know what''s wrong with you, Mia? You chose to leave behind your family who genuinely cared for you. I couldn''t even leave the ones who always wanted to suck out my blood. But yours? Your family was willing to give anything and do anything for you. What did you do? You chose to distance yourself and hurt them. It''s true that now, the distance had be big but there is still time if you really want to fix anything, it is possible. However, you are barely trying."

    "You make me sound like a jerk."

    "Well, I have to put it out there but you have been acting like one for years," said Tang Hebe seriously. "You know your father is an angelpared to mine. He is such a sweetheart. Even when he had his reservations toward me because of his wife, he never mistreated me. He never spoke harshly with me. He was my father-inw. He could discipline me using his authority but he never did."

    And these were the things that really made Tang Hebe unable to stay with Shui Xian back then. Because she felt too embarrassed and guilty to even receive that love, gentleness, and care from the Shui family''s father and son after knowing that her own family had a hand in killing her ex-mother-inw.

    "You know, I''m not surprised that Raelle found a ce in the Shui family. It''s very obvious to me who has been there. I''m sure you''ve been told but I''ll say it again, make your choice. If you don''t want to lose your family then act like family to them. Don''t sit here acting like a guest. Your ce is over there with your brother and sister-inw."

    Amiah pursed her lips as she contemted, she finally made up her decision and stood up to leave but stopped to ask, "What about you, Hebe Jie? What about your second chance?"

    "I''m still looking for it," replied Tang Hebe. "You see, I have to carefully decide on my second chance. I can''t just pick a random guy. I''m looking for a responsible one. Especially since I have Justin now with me. I can''t be thoughtless. So, don''t worry about me. I don''t wrong myself."

 Chapter 1087 [Bonus chapter] Not Easy

    1087 [Bonus chapter] Not Easy

    "Did you notice something?"

    Mu Chenyan looked at her ex-sister-inw who was talking cautiously to her right now and frowned, "What are you talking about, Sister Xin?"

    "That little guy beside Weimin," was the only thing Song Xin''ai said and Mu Chenyan had an understanding look on her face. "If I noticed, it obviously means you did too. You aren''t blind. You even see things more clearly than me. So, tell me what is going on?"

    Mu Chenyan looked at her in amusement, "And what is your take on this?"

    "Don''t waste time," said Song Xin''ai. "Just tell me if I''m right or wrong. Is that little guy really my grandson?"

    "Since you already think so, why ask?"

    Song Xin''ai''s eyes widened a little in surprise, "It really is?"

    "That''s what the DNA test says," replied Mu Chenyan. How could she leave this matter alone and not investigate it properly? Of course, she even performed a paternity test for confirmation, and only then did she think about the consequent investigations regarding the mother of Justin.

    "Weimin doesn''t even know, does he?" asked Song Xin''ai.

    "Nope," answered Mu Chenyan as she mused to herself how it was true that a mother knew her child best. Song Xin''ai was able to figure out things without even being told explicitly. No wonder Raelle liked talking to smart people. It was easier to talk to smart people.

    "This guy deserves a beating,"mented Song Xin''ai. "I thought he lived a clean life but he just had to prove me wrong."

    Mu Chenyan''s lips twitched before she said, "I think once Ge hears about this, Weimin might really end up getting a beating."

    "It''s long due," said Song Xin''ai. "How can he knock some innocent girl and then not even care? He left his own son to roam around as a fatherless child. He should be ashamed of himself."

    Mu Chenyan felt like Song Xin''ai really despised Xiang Weimin''s actions right now but she couldn''t do much. Even she wasn''t happy to know that her grandnephew had been living like a fatherless child all this while and had no family of his own. Only one mother and even that wasn''t his birth mother. The more she thought about it at this moment, the more she felt like beating Xiang Weimin herself.

    Still, she was the aunt who doted on her nephew and nieces. How could she talk bad about him? No matter what she thought to herself, she had to defend her nephew in front of the world.

    "Sister Xin, why don''t you think that perhaps that girl wasn''t all that innocent? Maybe, she nned it and Weimin ended up falling into her trap. Also, she took all these years to add more weight to her story and then just randomly appeared in front of Xiang Weimin at the right time with his son."

    "Are you writing a novel?" asked Song Xin''ai. "Do I look like a fool to you? You wouldn''t be standing here calmly if it was the case." Song Xin''ai gave her a look, "You, Chenyan would have dug the grave of that girl by now if she had dared to scheme against your dear nephew."

    "A. Sister still knows me so well," said Mu Chenyan cheekily. "Fine, I won''t hide it from you. Weimin didn''t know anything. He actually had a very brief rtionship with a woman when they were working on a flood relief mission. It was so brief that he didn''t expect something like this to happen."

    "It''s still his fault."

    "No, it''s the fault of that girl too for hiding it from us."

    "True," agreed Song Xin''ai. "How can she hide it so easily? As a father, Weimin deserved to know." She looked up at Mu Chenyan, "Did you tell him about it?"

    "Not yet," answered Mu Chenyan. "I''ll tell him after the engagement party ends."

    At this moment, Mu Chenyan found Xiang Hulin and Su Feifei standing together and talking rather amiably. She instinctively nced at Song Xin''ai who was also looking at those two people.

    Mu Chenyan felt a little awkward. She didn''t know why she felt guilty for a moment. She shook her head to shake off this guilt. She had nothing to be guilty about. Right! Nothing at all!

    "You brought them together?" asked Song Xin''ai unexpectedly.

    "Uhh... Ummm..." Mu Chenyan didn''t know what to say.

    "When did you be timid?" asked Song Xin''ai. "Is it that difficult to answer? Do you think I''d mind it?"

    "That''s not it. I know you don''t have such thoughts at all. I am very clear about you. Especially after raising Raelle, I understood you even more. So, I know that you don''t mind this. I just still find it difficult to talk about it with you."

    "You just want the best for your brother," said Song Xin''ai. "It had always been like that. All these years, I told him to move on but his hurdle wasn''t me or our kids. It was the fact that he couldn''t even meet his father and you. Now, that this hurdle is gone, I''m sure he has no problem with moving on." She took a pause and added, "I must say, you''re good at matchmaking, Chenyan. Why didn''t I notice it before?"

    "Huh?"

    "You matched Raelle with Xian, an absolutely impable choice, by the way. And now, you chose Su Feifei for Hulin. It''s actually a promising match. Su Feifei has a lot ofmon interests. She even once had a crush on him. She is actually the right choice for Hulin to spend histe years."

    "Sister Xin is very generous and magnanimous,"mented Mu Chenyan. "I thought about it a lot before doing this. I really don''t want my brother to be alone."

    Song Xin''ai smiled at her gently, "Chenyan has always been the caring one. Sigh. I wonder why she is so bad when ites to her own match."

    Mu Chenyan pouted, "Why is everyone after me these days?"

    "Maybe because everyone has also started to notice how blind you had been all this while," replied Song Xin''ai with a shrug.

 Chapter 1083: [Bonus chapter] A Good Day

    Chapter 1083: [Bonus chapter] A Good DayAfter the greeting session at the door, Hyson returned to stay with Grandfather Xiang. Grandfather Zhai and Grandmother Zhai came to greet Grandfather Xiang.

    "Old Xiang, you''re really fortunate," said Grandfather Zhai heartily. "Your granddaughter is getting engaged. If Old Shui was alive, he''d actually be over the moon to know how your two families are being connected."

    "Yes, I''m very fortunate," replied Grandfather Xiang as if he didn''t notice the subtle hint in his old friend''s words.

    "Old fox, you really want me to spell it out for you?"

    Grandfather Xiangughed at that, "I''m a straightforward person and so is everyone in my family. It''s you schrs who love to talk in circles. We military people just get to the point. So, I can''t understand your hints at all."

    Grandfather Zhai gave his old friend a disgruntled look.

    Grandmother Zhai held back her husband as she took the lead, "Brother Xiang, you''re also a friend of Old Zhai. I believe the rtionship between you two is even longer and stronger than Old Shui who is no more. Then why don''t you think about making our families'' bond stronger?" She took a look at Grandfather Xiang''s face before continuing, "I believe you have the same intention. Besides, I heard that both the children really like each other. We should strengthen their rtionship by making it official. Don''t you think so?"

    Grandfather Xiang sighed, "Sister, it''s you so I''ll be honest with you. I have no issue as long as the kids are happy. Why would an old soul whose one leg is already in the grave even interfere in their matters? Raelle is an exception in my life and I can rightfully interfere in her matters. But the same is not true for others. As long as Wai brings this matter to me, I have no problem at all."

    "Opa, don''t talk nonsense!" came Hyson''s unhappy voice from behind Grandfather Xiang. He didn''t want to interfere. Besides, he had nothing to talk about between these old people. So, he kept his distance and sat aside obediently. Who knew he''d hear Grandfather Xiang talking about having his one leg in the grave? He couldn''t help chiming in. "Today is a special day. Do you have to talk about unlucky things? How can you talk about dying? That''s not epted!"

    Grandfather Xiang was helpless and nodded, "Okay, okay. It''s my mistake. I won''t repeat anything regarding this."

    "I''m watching you," was Hyson''s response and he even made the hand gesture to emphasize how he was keeping his eyes on this old man.

    Grandfather Xiang smiled softly and Hyson went back to sit where he had been sitting before. He actually was keeping an eye on the situation here as well. Originally he thought Zhai Kuijun would have told his parents about him but it seemed that he hadn''t. This made Hyson actually rx. He didn''t want to deal with old people. Because it was difficult for him to be stubborn or rude to old people.

    So, the best option was to avoid them.

    On the other hand, Grandmother Zhai was happy and rxed to hear that from Grandfather Xiang and asked, "Then why don''t you talk to Wai? Today is a good day to make an announcement."

    "What''s the hurry?" asked Grandfather Xiang. "This is Raelle''s day. No one can take her limelight. We''ll talk about it after Raelle''s wedding."

    "Huh? We still have to wait for the wedding?" asked Grandmother Zhai. "Can''t we start talking about it earlier? At least, they can get engaged right after Raelle, no? This would have no conflict with each other. And who knows they might decide to get married on the same day."

    "Sister-inw, don''t dream big," said Grandfather Xiang. "I might have not raised Wai, but I still know her. She''d never agree to get married on the same day as Raelle. After all, she only has one sister, how will she enjoy her wedding if she became the bride on the same day?"

    "You''re making excuses, old fox," said Grandfather Zhai. "Why don''t you first ask her?"

    "Why don''t you go ask your grandson first?" retorted Grandfather Xiang. "Who knows if he wants toe over to our family to ask for Wai''s hands? What if he ditched her as he did with Raelle?"

    Behind him, Hyson covered his mouth andughed when he heard that. Indeed, Opa also held grudges for years toe. He had to bring that up at this moment. It was so funny to listen to these old people''s conversations. He was quite entertained. He didn''t feel the need to go and socialize with people at all.

    "Then what do you suggest?" asked Grandmother Zhai as she couldn''t push this matter. She also knew that deep down Grandfather Xiang was still upset with Zhai Yanjun. So, even though he liked Zhai Yanjun, he definitely was careful when the matter came to his own granddaughter.

    He could be careless with his grandson''s matters but he was especially careful when it came to his precious granddaughters.

    "I say, we should wait," said Grandfather Xiang. "Don''t rush things. The rtionship between the kids is on track and seems to be getting stronger. So, we should give them time to cultivate more feelings. We shouldn''t interfere. It''s not like our times. Besides, do I have to remind you two that even in our times, you both created a whole lot of fuss to get married to each other?"

    Grandfather Zhai and Grandmother Zhai avoided his eyes when he brought up that old matter. How embarrassing it was to talk about it at this age.

    "You both were quite dissatisfied with your parents for rushing you to marry. Why are you doing this to your own grandson? When he feels like it''s the right time, he''lle to you and talk about his marriage. We''ll discuss it then."

    "But..."

    Grandfather Xiang didn''t let Grandmother Zhai speak as he added, "Also, Wai and Yanjun are gonna have the first dance tonight since Raelle can''t dance. So, seeing them dancing together, everyone will already know that they are official and have their families'' blessings. Why are you both getting so impatient with age? Stop bothering me now."

 Chapter 1084: In My Birthday Suit

    Chapter 1084: In My Birthday SuitThe engagement venue was bustling with people. The guests invited to this engagement had a special status in society and were well respected. These people often didn''t even gather in the same ce and now that all of them were in the same room, the news reporters were trying their best to get a glimpse of the situation inside.

    Some of them even tried to squeeze in by ying their usual tricks like acting like a waiter or even bribing the staff to get in. However, everything was useless since the security of this ce was top-notch.

    How could Mu Chenyan ck regarding the privacy of her guests and her own family?

    And because this was Xia Zhao''s hotel, there was an addedyer of security.

    When it was time, the emcee took the stage to get everyone''s attention. The role of the emcee tonight was taken over by Xiang Wai. Even she didn''t think she''d one day willingly y this role. But it was her sister''s engagement, and she didn''t want to shirk away her responsibility, especially since Raelle.

    First of all, she had to invite the elder of the family to the stage and that was Grandfather Xiang who was helped to the stage by Hyson. And then Grandfather Xiang greeted the guests, "Good evening everyone! I am honored to stand before you all today as we gather to celebrate the engagement of my beloved granddaughter, Raelle. As I look at her and her fianc¨¦, Shui Xian, I am filled with joy and gratitude for the love and happiness they share.

    It seems just like yesterday when she was just a little girl and now she is a grown woman. She has grown up to be my pride.

    I know life has a lot of obstacles and challenges but I''m certain that Raelle and Xian can ovee them together with their love. I have no doubt that they''d stand by each other''s side no matter what they face.

    So, let''s raise a ss to wish them a lifetime of happiness, love, and prosperity! May their love continue to grow stronger with each passing day.

    Cheers!"

    When he got off the stage, Hyson couldn''t help leaning towards him as he asked, "Opa, did you practice that?"

    Grandfather Xiang knocked on his head, "Why do I need to practice? I just said whatever came to my mind. That Chenyan didn''t even tell me she was gonna call me on stage. I''d have done a better job if I knew that this was gonna happen." He sighed in regret making Hyson amused at his look. "Actually, I had a lot more to say but I thought it''d get too personal and there was no need to get this person in front of these guests. I''ll just say those words to my Yenay when we are at home."

    Hyson chuckled, "That''s what I was thinking. You''re being too formal. But you did a good job."

    After this speech, Raelle and Shui Xian entered the venue hand in hand. Everyone''s eyes followed this golden couple. They seemed to be sparkling brighter than the lights around them.

    The women''s eyes were stuck on Raelle''s attire and were glowing with jealousy as they looked at the sapphire ne around her neck. They couldn''t take their eyes off her at all. Since women naturally have an interest in jewelry and clothing, so most of them did recognize the sapphire ne. And although they couldn''t recognize the design of the tiara Raelle wore, it didn''t stop them from taking a few extra looks because of the fine workmanship.

    Only the people in business had seen Raelle in real life while their partners were seeing Raelle for the very first time. They had to agree that the photos that were leaked on the inte before really didn''t do justice to this ice queen.

    Surprisingly though, this ice queen had a small smile on her lips tonight.

    And even Shui Xian didn''t call her smile ugly today but he could actually see that this smile on her lips wasn''t just a show. She was really trying her best to smile sincerely.

    After all, it wouldn''t look good to keep a nk face in the photos.

    Even Raelle felt that people might assume she was being forced to get engaged that''s why she did her best to smile. She had to say, her years of efforts seemed to be paying off a little. Even she''d see that her smile wasn''t as forced as before.

    As they got on stage, they said a few words to the guests. Well, it was mostly Shui Xian who was grinning happily and thanking everyone foring to bless them on their engagement. Raelle wasn''t interested in talking so much and no one would mind that she only said a few words.

    "Now, let''s exchange the rings," announced Xiang Wai.

    The couple exchanged the rings and everyone cheered.

    While putting on the ring, Shui Xian said softly to her, "This is our new beginning."

    "Why? You got bored already so you want a new beginning now?"

    Shui Xian was speechless at her remark.

    Raelle noticed the way his veins ticked and said, "Sorry. I just couldn''t hold back the retort. I know you don''t mean that."

    "Raelle, you''re being wicked," said Shui Xian.

    Raelle whispered in response, "Then how about you make me obedient?"

    Shui Xian''s ears turned red as he understood the meaning behind her words and almost bit his own tongue at that moment. What the hell! Did she have to tease him in front of the hundred or so guests? It was so embarrassing!

    Raelle obviously didn''t think so and was acting as if nothing happened.

    Shui Xian took a deep breath, "You just wait. I''ll show you once we get back home."

    "I''ll be waiting," replied Raelle. "In my birthday suit."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and raised his hand to touch the tip of his nose so as the hide the emotions he was going through. He looked at her innocent look and shook his head. He so wanted to take her down right there.

    He knew she was doing it on purpose again.

    They were just talking about his mother earlier and he was feeling down. How could Raelle not see that he was still a bit blue even after talking to her? And being the ever-ready Raelle, she took it upon herself to tease him to make him feel better.

    "Behave yourself," said Shui Xian. "We have guests."

    "That''s what I want to say too."

    Both of them looked at Xiang Wai who had slid to their side and whispered, "Can you both pay attention? This is your engagement! You''re on stage! Don''t be lost in your own world! You can do that at home."

    She was really hyper right now. She was doing such a good job at being an emcee but this couple wasn''t even cooperating with her. How could they just get lost in their own world while the engagement ceremony was ongoing? Couldn''t they see how everyone was looking at them? Although everyone had a smile on their faces, still this couple needed to learn propriety!

    "I hope Wai doesn''t lose it,"mented Mu Chenyan.

    "Rx, aunt! She''ll be fine," assured Xiang Weimin. "For Raelle, Wai can be very patient. Trust me."

    "Let''s hope so," said Mu Chenyan and instantly shook her head. "No, I should have faith in my niece. She can do it. I warned her to be patient with Raelle and Xian. After all, how can I not know these two? How could having a hundred or so people gathered here for them be any of their concerns? They''d still find time to build their own little world filled with bubbles of love."

    Hyson chuckled when he heard that. "Who chose Wai Jie?" he asked. "Why her of all people?"

    "Because you didn''t want to do it," said Xiang Weimin and Mu Chenyan simultaneously.

    Hyson rubbed his nose, "I just didn''t think the role would suit me." Then he grinned, "Well, anyway, I''m gratified to see my Ellie and Xian Ge being so in love."

    "Lose that old grandpa smile," said Zhai Yanjun.

    Hyson turned to Grandfather Xiang, "Opa, see what he said! He called me old grandpa! Isn''t he insulting you indirectly?"

    Zhai Yanjun gasped and hurriedly shook his head in front of Grandfather Xiang, "Granduncle, you know I didn''t mean that."

    "You should be careful with your words these days, Captain," said Hyson. "After all, you want the daughter of our family. Offending any one of us will be dangerous for you."

    Grandfather Xiangughed heartily at that, "Indeed. Our family''s little prince is right, Captain Zhai. Be careful. We hold grudges."

    Zhai Yanjun felt like crying. Why did he have to tease Hyson of all people and that too in front of the Xiang family''s members? Now, he shot himself on the foot. He was the most pitiful one because they were all right. He was the one who wanted the daughter of their family. He had to be sincere and humble or he''d be kicked out.

    Or worse, Mu Chenyan mighte after him with a rolling pin again.

 Chapter 1088: Envious Of People

    Chapter 1088: Envious Of PeopleAs was decided before, the first dance belonged to Xiang Wai and Zhai Yanjun. And seeing them dance, Raelle agreed that Xiang Wai was a terrific dancer. There was a tacit understanding between Xiang Wai and Zhai Yanjun. Both were perfectly coordinated. And definitely lit the stage on fire.

    They received warm apuse from everyone once the music stopped and the dance ended.

    Many couples got on the dance floor after this and even some young ones couldn''t help dancing to the music.

    Raelle and Xian were left receiving congrattory words from the guests who came to greet the newly engaged couple. After a while, Raelle couldn''t maintain her smile. It was tiring but she had to keep trying her best.

    "Don''t push yourself," said Shui Xian. He realized that she was tired of smiling. After all, the sincerity in her smile had shifted back to her practiced smile a while ago. It was the same smile that he still considered ''ugly''.

    "It wouldn''t look good not to smile on my own engagement."

    "But haven''t you noticed it yet? Most people are not used to this smile of yours," Shui Xian pointed out since he had seen the awkwardness and shock in some people when they saw Raelle smiling at them.

    Raelle decreased the arc of her smile. "Do you wanna dance?" she asked when she noticed Shui Xian looking at the dance floor.

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and then shook his head, "Not really."

    "But you do want to dance with me," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian smiled sheepishly, "Is it that obvious?"

    Raelle nodded and held his hand, "Let''s go then."

    "Huh?" Shui Xian was dumbfounded.

    "Don''t you want to dance?"

    Shui Xian shook his head again, "No. It''s okay. We don''t have to dance."

    "How can we not when you want to?" was her response.

    Shui Xian smiled at her helplessly, "You don''t always have to force yourself to do things for my sake."

    "Well, who asked me to dote on my husband so much?"

    Shui Xian chuckled at her words.

    Then with a proper posture, she stood before him and offered her left hand as she said, "So, dear fianc¨¦, would you like to dance with me?"

    Shui Xian looked at her demeanor in amusement before he ced his hand in hers and said, "Yes, of course! I''d love that."

    There were a lot of people who noticed their movements. These guests even started specting who started the rumors that this was a marriage of convenience. Even a blind could see this couple was in love and no interests were even involved.

    Once they got on the dance floor, Raelle seriously danced. She had coordinated well with Shui Xian that even he was a little suspicious. "Didn''t you say you don''t know how to dance?"

    "I don''t," replied Raelle. "At least, I can''t move like Xiang Wai. But that doesn''t mean I never learned the standard dance. How could Yanyan miss out on that ss? Hyson and I learned dance etiquette together. But both of us weren''t interested. He was too restless for this proper dance and it was too cumbersome for my taste."

    "So the only reason you don''t dance is not that you can''t dance but just that you find it too troublesome."

    "Yes," Raelle generously agreed, making Shui Xian baffled.

    "Wow! My wife really..." Shui Xian didn''t know what to say. "And you''re here now just to dance with me? All because I wanted to dance with you?"

    Raelle looked into his eyes as she replied, "Because I can go against my interests for you. It''s a little troublesome but nothing more than that. It''s not like I can''t afford this trouble. So, why can''t I just do it to make you happy? As they say, anything for the smile of a beauty. In my case, I do things all for the sake of the smile of this gentleman whom I fell for."

    Shui Xian''s ears turned slightly red.

    He spun her around and when he pulled her back, he used slightly more force making her m into his chest. He held her waist and pecked her lips unexpectedly as he said, "Raelle, this gentleman can smile just seeing you. You don''t have to make so much effort to make him smile. I''m very easily pleased."

    "I know," said Raelle. How could she not know how easily was pleased? "But just because you''re easily pleased doesn''t mean I should stop putting in the effort. Isn''t that what you said when we first got married? You also told me I am easily satisfied with things but that doesn''t stop you from doing your best. I''m just following your lead."

    "Oh? I said that?" he repeated. "I didn''t know I talk so well."

    "Then you are really looking down on yourself," she said.

    "No way. I don''t look down on myself anymore. I have to have some great merit to manage to marry a wife like you home, right?"

    "Silly."

    "That''s also your fault. Your presence makes my brain cells go haywire. How can I even think straight when you''re always seducing me? So, I be a little silly."

    Raelle actually wrapped her arms around his neck as they moved side from the side and she said, "It''s okay. I still like the silly you."

    ....

    "Sigh. This love is envious and it''s blinding my eyes." Fang Yiwen looked at Lin Zhen as he added, "Zhen Ge, don''t you think so?"

    Lin Zhen seemed to be a bit distracted and only noticed when Fang Yiwen called him again. "Huh? What did you say?"

    Fang Yiwen gave him a strange look before repeating himself.

    "Oh, I got used to it," responded Lin Zhen. "You should see them sprinkling a lot of dog food early in the morning. Trust me, it''s even more blinding when you have to eat this dog food even before the breakfast. I hardly have any appetite after running into them at the park every morning."

    Fang Yiwenughed and patted his shoulder, "Ge, you have it tough."

    "What are you both doing here?"

    Fang Yiwen looked over at Hyson who came over and told him what they were talking about.

    In response, Hyson said, "You should also get used to it, Wen Ge. It isn''t even your first time seeing this." He took a pause and looked around before asking, "Where are the other two?"

    Lin Zhen pointed at the dance floor and Hyson found Pei Zi Han with He Rou dancing there with a sweet smell of love lingering around them.

    "And Shuyi Ge?"

    "We can''t find him," said Fang Yiwen. "He actually disappeared a short while after we came inside."

    "But where did he go?"

    "To meet the girl he is courting," replied Fang Yiwen. "I''m 100% sure, he is with that girl."

    "And who is that girl?"

    "If I knew would I be here? I''d have gone to catch them red-handed."

    "Instead of catching others," started Lin Zhen. "Why don''t you look around and find someone that can catch your attention instead? That way, you won''t have to look at the dance floor and be envious of people who have partners."

    Hyson had to purse his lips to suppress theughter that was threatening toe out but he still failed and looked at Fang Yiwen''s ck face. "Wen Ge, Zhen Ge is right though. Instead of looking at other couples. Why don''t you find one for yourself?"

    Fang Yiwen sighed, "Find a girl here? Have you seen the guests? Theye from the elites of the elite. How can I fall into anyone''s eye? I am not looking down on myself. I''m very handsome. I ept that but the face alone isn''t enough for the people who are here. They are all capable people who change the weather of the country with the flick of their finger. At the end of the day, I''m just an idol. They won''t be interested in me. Ie from a humble background too. That''s even worse to these people for whom I might just look like a country bumpkin." He sighed bitterly, "Besides, to people like them, the people from the entertainment industry are just entertainers. They don''t really care about people like us."

    Although everything that Fang Yiwen sounded bad, it was the truth so Hyson and Lin Zhen couldn''t retort.

    Hyson patted Fang Yiwen''s shoulder as he encouraged, "Ge, you don''t have to be so realistic in life. Sometimes dreaming and having wishful thinking are okay. Even if it''s deception, it can make you happy for a moment. Being overly realistic can make you stressful. Trust me, I''m speaking from experience."

    "The most realistic one between the two of us is you," reminded Fang Yiwen. "And I''m also influenced by you. Heavily! Do you think I had no dreams when I first came to this city to be a trainee? I also had a lot of wishful thinking. It''s your brutal attacks of reality that made me fall from the sky and put my feet on the ground."

 Chapter 1089: Awkward Guy

    Chapter 1089: Awkward Guy"Ouch!"

    Fang Yiwen''s outburst earned him a smack on the back of his head from the leader of the group, Lin Zhen.

    "Zhen Ge?"

    "Don''t get so worked up. Fai only made you see reality early on so that you won''t be the victim of idol syndrome. You''re humble and down-to-earth now, you should thank Fai for that."

    Hyson scratched the tip of his nose before chiming in, "Actually, I won''t take this me. Wen Ge, you had always been a down-to-earth guy. You''re the guy who sneaked out of the training to go to the inte cafe to y games. The only me I''ll ept is that my constant reminder made you not lose that real you."

    While they were arguing over there, a young woman came over and called out, "Excuse me!"

    The three of them turned their heads and found that a girl in a purple dress was standing behind them. But from the way her eyes were stuck on Fang Yiwen, it was obvious who she was calling out to.

    Being the sensible ones, both Hyson and Lin Zhen took a step back to keep some distance from Fang Yiwen who was dumbstruck.

    The woman smiled at him beautifully as she asked, "Would you like to dance with me?"

    Fang Yiwen was even more surprised. He instinctively wanted to reject this idea but suddenly he heard the whisper of Hyson in his right ear, "Ge, don''t be in a rush to refuse."

    Then a voice appeared beside his left ear, "You were justining about how no one could even see you here. Now, you''re gonna chicken out? Where is your courage?" It was, of course, Lin Zhen''s voice.

    Hyson tsked, "I think Wen Ge is only a courageous warrior in his games. No wonder you love gaming. You don''t have this courage in real life."

    "Don''t make the girl wait," said Lin Zhen. "Does it even look good? What kind of a man are you? A woman is asking you to dance and you can''t even say yes? Don''t you know it''s rude to reject the dance request at a formal party?"

    "Zhen Ge, what are you saying?" started Hyson. "Wen Ge is a country bumpkin how would he know the dance etiquette of such parties, right?"

    Fang Yiwen''s lips twitched when he heard this back and forth. He almost felt like he had an angel and devil on his left and right shoulders respectively. The angel was on the left side, encouraging him while the devil was on the right side provoking him. It was infuriating.

    Taking a deep breath, Fang Yiwen smiled back at the woman who was looking at him expectantly and said, "Yes, sure. Just give me a moment, please."

    The woman was obviously happy to hear that he agreed and was more than willing to wait there.

    Fang Yiwen turned around and held the arms of Lin Zhen and Hyson as he said, "Both of you are annoying!"

    Lin Zhen and Hyson shared a look and said simultaneously, "We know. But no matter how annoying, we are still rooting for you."

    Fang Yiwen smiled helplessly at them and turned to leave when he heard Hyson''s voice, "Wen Ge, don''t let us down."

    "Right. You''re one of the top idols in the country. You''re an international star! Don''t forget that," added Lin Zhen.

    Both of them kept their eyes locked on Fang Yiwen and the woman who asked him for the dance because let''s ept it, they had very little faith in Fang Yiwen when it came to women. He looked like aplete heartthrob and even if earlier he was talking about getting into a rtionship, when someone actually came to him, he became an overthinker and always hesitated to take the next step.

    He was truly the awkward guy of the group but always hid his awkwardness by acting cool and dashing. But truly, all his ws could be overlooked just because of his face. Whether it was his extra paleplexion, hiszy cat look in his eyes, the dangling earring in his one ear, or his prominent canines, everything made him a sight for the sore eyes.

    "I guess stimtions worked," said Lin Zhen.

    Hyson put his arm around Lin Zhen''s shoulder, "I''m Fai. If I take over a mission, I always seed. Failure isn''t a word in my dictionary."

    "Show off,"mented Lin Zhen.

    "But you still love me, Zhen Ge," said Hyson.

    Lin Zhen wanted to ruffle his hair but held back because he couldn''t ruin the hairstyle. So, he pinched Hyson''s cheek instead, "Yes, yes. How can anyone not love you? You''re our group''s mascot. The lucky charm!"

    Hyson was a little embarrassed to hear that, "Now, you don''t have to put me so high on the pedestal."

    "But I''m telling the truth," was Lin Zhen''s response. "I was a trainee since I was fourteen and waited so long for my debut. But the moment you came around, we got the chance to make a grand debut. Doesn''t that mean you''re our lucky charm?"

    "That was just a coincidence," insisted Hyson.

    "If I started listing down these ''coincidences'' for you, Fai, the list would never end."

    Hyson touched his head and avoided this topic. How lucky he was, he was very clear about that. They say hard work and luck both are necessary for sess in life. Hyson actually agreed with it because he didn''t think his hard work alone got him where he was today.

    "Ah? Was that Shuyi Ge?"

    "Huh? What did you say?" asked Lin Zhen.

    "I thought I just saw Shuyi Ge with..." He stopped and didn''t continue down this line as he had an uncertain expression. "Maybe I''m tripping. It couldn''t be her. Right?"

    Lin Zhen poked Hyson''s forehead, "Okay, stop thinking about these guys. Go and enjoy yourself. It''s your best friend''s engagement. You don''t have to keep uspany."

    "But I don''t want to leave you alone," said Hyson.

    "And when did you be so clingy?" Lin Zhen chuckled.

    "Ge, they left you alone but you can have faith in me. I''m standing here with you."

    Lin Zhen shook his head, "I don''t need you to. Go away already. You''re ruining my chances of finding a dance partner too."

    Hyson gasped, "Ge, my presence increases the chances of finding a dance partner, not decreases it. Okay? I''m like the moon in this sea of stars. Everyone eventually notices me. And while looking at me, they''ll inadvertently give you a nce or two too. So, believe me, your chances are high with me around."

    "Is it just I or your narcissism has gone up a notch during this time when we had been apart?"

    "This is called self-confidence, Zhen Ge. It means knowing yourself. You just don''t understand it yet." Lin Zhen didn''t want to bother with his nonsense and pretended like he heard nothing. Hyson smirked and said, "Look, I already pulled a partner to you."

    "Huh?" Lin Zhen was confused.

    Suddenly, someone came to stand before the two of them and blocked their vision. They weren''t able to see Fang Yiwen anymore and while Hyson had a knowing smile on his face as he looked at the person opposite them, Lin Zhen''s expressions condensed.

    Seeing the suppressed rage in the man''s eyes, Hyson even gave him a provocative smile. How could his keen senses not notice that someone had been looking their way all this while? And as soon as he found that intense gaze, he recognized the man too. Wasn''t it the same person he had seen with Lin Zhen at thepany before? Back then he gave Hyson an intimidating look and currently, he was doing the same.

    After all his provocation, he really couldn''t hold back and came over.

    Hyson mentally patted himself on the shoulder, he was just too good.

    "Take your hand off of him," said the man in a low and dangerous voice to Hyson.

    "And if I don''t?" asked Hyson.

    Before the man could reply, a frantic secretary caught up to him and held his arm saying, "Boss, don''t. Please, don''t. He is from the Xiang family. You can''t go against him. Don''t offend him. Thest time someone offended him, President Raelle made that person''s whole family suffer. Although we aren''t scared of the revenge, let''s not forget that the trouble is unnecessary."

    Lin Zhen was frowning and slowly stepped up, he looked at the man and said, "Mr. Ji, I''m warning you, don''t even try to hurt Fai." Then he turned to Hyson and smiled at him, "Fai, let''s go."

    Mr. Ji held his arm to stop him as he said, "I have something to say."

    "I don''t have the time to listen."

    "Zhen!"

    Lin Zhen paused for a moment before telling Hyson, "I''ll see you in a while."

    "Ge, you don''t have to worry about me. You know that right?"

    Lin Zhen nodded, "I know."

    "Then you should also know that I''m here for you. Don''t be afraid of anyone. You can do whatever you want. You can even refuse to listen to people. I''ve got your back."

    Lin Zhen smiled as he felt warm from Hyson''s words and gave him an encouraging pat on his shoulder, "I know that too. You don''t really have to worry about me."

 Chapter 1090: All His Fault

    Chapter 1090: All His FaultHyson was nosy but he had his limits too. Since Lin Zhen didn''t want him to get involved, he definitely won''t do so. That''s why he decided to step away.

    He was thinking about who to look for when he came across thest person he wanted to see tonight. Yup! It was his nominal father, Zhai Kuijun.

    As their eyes met across the room, Hyson could see the yearning in Zhai Kuijun''s eyes and it made him ufortable. So, he did what he knew best. Run!

    Yes, he literally ran and merged into the crowd finally losing sight of Zhai Kuijun. Hyson had a habit of avoiding things that made him ufortable. Just like he did with Amiah and now, even with his own father. He wasn''t interested in confrontations.

    While looking behind him, he ran into someone.

    "Brother, can you watch where you''re going?"

    Hyson looked down and was surprised for a moment before saying, "I''m sorry. It''s my fault. Did you get hurt?"

    "No," came the response.

    Hyson still looked this little man up and down carefully. Fortunately, this little man didn''t fall from the bump. "Rowan, what a pleasant surprise to see you here."

    Rowan gave him a smile, "Brother, you didn''t even invite me. I''m actually sad."

    Hyson scratched his head, "I knew you''d be here."

    "No, you didn''t," exposed Rowan. "Originally, only my Baba and Mommy were gonnae. When I learned that it was your best friend''s engagement, I got really curious. That''s why I came."

    "Still, you tagged along with your mom and dad," said Hyson.

    "I didn''t," replied Rowan. "I came with my grandaunt."

    Hyson frowned, "Your parents didn''te?"

    "They are here," said Rowan. "But I still chose toe with my grandaunt. You see, it''s not easy to share a ride with parents who are madly, crazily, and absurdly in love with each other."

    "Woah! Are you sure you''re supposed to say that about your parents?" asked Hyson as he took this little guy with him. They sat down together as Hyson took some snacks and offered those to Rowan.

    "Why not? It''s an open secret that my parents love each other beyond sanity," responded Rowan.

    "Shouldn''t you be happy about it?" asked Hyson curiously.

    "I am happy," said Rowan. "I told you, I love my parents. I am obviously very happy to see that they have such an amazing rtionship that can make anyone envious. But that''s the thing, their love is envious. I''m too young. So, I need a break from their love. That''s why I find escape routes." He shook his head like an adult who had so many worries weighing down on his shoulders before asking, "When are you joining the production?"

    "I just finished with thest one. Give me a week to rest. Besides, your scenes aren''t done yet," said Hyson. "So, Mr. Child star Chen. Be patient. Patience is a virtue. Cultivate it from a young age. It''ll benefit you a lot when you grow up."

    Rowan chuckled, "Okay. I''ll try my best, brother. How nice of you to teach me these precious life lessons."

    "Oh, I''m just that nice," was Hyson''s cheeky response.

    They were chatting happily as they munched on snacks when they saw a couple walking towards them. In fact, it was more like the man was dragging the woman towards them.

    "Sweets, pay attention. We are looking for our son right now!"

    "Aren''t I looking? At least give me a moment to look carefully and appreciate."

    "Sweets!"

    "What? Rowan isn''t a kid. Besides, he didn''te with us. He came with Aunt Feifei. Why should we be looking for him? My son isn''t insensible that he''d get lost at an engagement banquet. If he really did, I might as well disown him."

    "Really?"

    "Okay. Not disown him but I''d definitely want to shove him back to where he came from to reassemble his faulty parts."

    Hyson leaned towards Rowan who had a helpless on his face and even sighed heavily. It was kinda amusing considering his young age.

    "They are your parents?" asked Hyson.

    "Yup," replied Rowan. "They are one unique couple you''d find in your life. Get used to it. If your uncle really married my grandaunt, you''d be seeing them a lot."

    "Look! There is the son you''re looking for. Isn''t he fine? You actually interrupted my sightseeing for this!"

    Rowan pursed his lips to suppress hisughter when he heard his mother''s voice again.

    His father, Darren also looked over and found Rowan. He finally rxed and walked over, "If you wanted toe, you should have juste with us. Why bother Aunt Feifei?"

    Rowan shrugged, "Baba, why don''t you go and say the same thing to Grandaunt? Let''s see if she finds me a bother?"

    "Who finds my son a bother? Which bloody son of a biscuit is it?!"

    "Pfft!" Hyson couldn''t stop himself at that moment when he heard Rowan''s mother''s words. "Sorry," he said when the family of three looked at him. That''s when Hyson noticed that Rowan had the same eyes as his father. They both had grey orbs.

    Rowan jumped down and stood up as he started, "Let me introduce you guys. Baba and mommy, this is brother Fai. Also known as Hyson. He is gonna work with me in the new movie." He took a pause and added, "Also, he is a part of the Xiang family." Then he looked at Hyson, "And brother, this is my father, Regan Darren Salvay. And that''s my mother, Bai Xiu."

    "Oh, this sight is worth my attention," said Xiu as she smiled at Hyson and Hyson was almost dazzled. "Considering you''re a part of the Xiang family, that means we''re almost rtives. It''s nice to meet you. I did see your file when you were auditioning for the role."

    Hyson was surprised and looked at Rowan who exined, "My mother doesn''t have anything to do with my work. It''s just that the production is under RX Studios and that belongs to my mother."

    Hyson was suddenly enlightened, "Oh my! You''re the owner of RX Studios. That exins it. I do know you guys."

    "You do?" asked Hyson.

    "Don''t you already know that it''s a known fact in the industry that RX Studios was a wedding gift from Mr. Salvay to his wife? In fact, it was even created for her. That''s why it''s named, RX meaning, Regan and Xiu. Right?"

    "I almost forgot that my parents'' love was a known story to the world,"mented Rowan tiredly.

    Xiu pressed down on his frown, "Lose the frown. How old are you to even frown already?"

    Meanwhile, Darren looked at Hyson and said, "Thank you for taking care of our son in the past few weeks. I heard him mention you a lot. He is a very picky person when ites to making friends so I was a bit surprised when he told me about you. I''m d he found a friend in you."

    "I quite like him myself," replied Hyson. "He is cute and acts like a little old man at the same time. Reminds me of myself sometimes. Besides, we even have the same interests. Also, I didn''t do much. I just gave himpany. I think I needed it more so he was the one keeping mepany instead."

    Darren chuckled at his words, "You''re just as your godmother said."

    "Yanyan?"

    Darren nodded his head, "Don''t you know she loves to talk about you and Raelle?"

    "I do know actually," replied Hyson.

    Once Xiu was done with her son, she turned to Hyson and said, "It''s nice to meet you, Yue Fai. I have also heard a lot about you."

    "Hopefully, all the nice things."

    "I don''t think people have anything bad to say about you. Even your haters can''t find the right reasons to hate you."

    "I''m just that likable. I know."

    Xiu smiled at him, "I hope Rowan isn''t disturbing you?"

    "Not at all," replied Hyson. "By the way, should I call you boss now?"

    "There is no need for that. I''m not interested in that title." Then she red at her husband, "It''s all his fault."

    Darren good naturedly nodded his head in acknowledged, "Everything is my fault. Sweets, I already know it''s all my fault."

    "I quite like this, Baobei! One should never shirk away from acknowledging their mistakes. This attitude will take you far."

    "I don''t wanna go far if it''s not with you."

    Xiu giggled and said, "Do you really think I''d let you go anywhere alone? Dream on!"

    Rowan tugged at Hyson''s sleeve and dragged him far from them.

    "We didn''t tell your parents yet," said Hyson.

    "They don''t care," replied Rowan. "They already confirmed that I''m doing fine and as long as I''m with you, they have no worries."

    "Your parents have an interesting rtionship,"mented Hyson. All the while, he had a smile on his face when he looked at Darren and Xiu. It was like he couldn''t stop smiling when he saw them together. Now he understood why they made people envious.

 Chapter 1091: Too Young

    Chapter 1091: Too Young"Brother, you are hiding from someone?" asked Rowan as he sipped on the drink Hyson especially got for him. It was Hyson''s territory, he could get anything he wanted even if that thing wasn''t on the menu tonight. And since he quite enjoyed being with Rowan, he didn''t mind spoiling him a little.

    "Why do you ask?"

    "Because when we bumped into each other, it really seemed like you were running from someone. Also, you''d be hiding in inconspicuous ces with me. Who are you hiding from?"

    "There is someone," responded Hyson vaguely.

    "Someone?"

    "Well, he is... my father?" Hyson shook his head immediately. He didn''t want to call Zhai Kuijun his father. "Yeah. Since I do have his blood in my veins, it seems I can''t deny it." He sighed heavily, "Don''t ask, it''splicated."

    "Complicated?" repeated Rowan. "Brother, you think I can''t takeplicated? Clearly, you haven''t seen the situation of my own family. My family tree is a mess. It''s a huge and hot mess!" Rowan suddenly chuckled, "Guess what? Do you know that my mommy had four mothers?"

    "Um? What?"

    Rowan nodded his head, "One is the surrogate who brought her into this world for her actual parents. And the same woman raised her for over 10 years. Then she was adopted into my godmother''s family. So, she has another mother. She only found her blood-rted parents when I was about to be born. Now, my godmother is not only my mom''s best friend, but she is also her sister legally since my mom was adopted into her family. Not only that, but the same godmother is also married to my mom''s brother. So, she is my aunt-inw too! Do you want me to continue?"

    Hyson was dumbstruck. He reyed Rowan''s words in his mind and was still a lot confused, "What?"

    Rowan shrugged, "You didn''t get it right? No one does it when I say it like this. It''s just thatplicated." He sighed once again, "I told you, my family is a mess. There is no single person in my family who isn''t rted to the other person in more than one or two ways."

    Hyson patted his shoulder, "It must be tough on you."

    "Not really," replied Rowan. "Once you get the hang of it, it actually bes pretty simple to make sense of our family. But it''s not that easy to exin. I was told I have four maternal grandmothers but two are no more. It''s a bummer because I would have loved to meet my grandma Ai. She was the coolest."

    "Your parents are also connected in more than one or two ways?" asked Hyson inexplicably. He didn''t know why he wanted to ask that question all of a sudden.

    "Yes," responded Rowan. "Someone told me that my mom and dad have a connection from a past life. So, their connection is the strongest and undeniable."

    "You believe that?" asked Hyson.

    "I have no reason not to believe that," replied Rowan. "I might be young but I understand very clearly that not everyone is fortunate enough to find love like my parents."

    "And are you looking forward to finding such love in your life?" asked Hyson.

    Rowan gave him a look, "Brother, don''t you think I''m too young for you to ask about this?"

    "You''re young but you already have your own thoughts. From what I have noticed, your parents raised you as a very independent person. So, clearly, you already have the answer I want."

    "You''re right," agreed Rowan. "My parents did raise me to be independent. Especially my mother. She doesn''t treat me like a kid most of the time. She always asks for my opinion and is willing to listen to my opinions. If she finds that it''s not good, only then does she try to convince me otherwise. But usually, she gives me a lot of freedom regarding my life. Inparison, my Baba thinks I''m too young." He shook his head and went on, "The answer to your question is, I''m clear-headed to know that I might never find the kind of love that my parents have. So, I don''t get my hopes up. My grandpa says we should be realistic in life. There is no harm in dreaming but we should understand that not all dreams are meant to be reality."

    He was young but his thoughts were clearly very clear regarding certain things. He knew where he stood and what he was looking for. Hyson actually found it quite admiring since back when he was Rowan''s age, he didn''t even know what he wanted until he came across Raelle and for the very first time in his life, he had the urge to get close to someone.

    Hyson chuckled, "When I was young, I was too realistic and my mum always wanted me to have dreams. She thought it wasn''t good to be that realistic in life. One point is the same though. She also thought there was no harm in dreaming." He knew clearly that his mum was a dreamer and it couldn''t be helped. He also knew that most of his mum''s dreams just left her with painful wounds but she still wanted her son to be a dreamer.

    "Brother, why are you running?"

    "Because I don''t want to face him or acknowledge him?"

    "But no one can force you to do what you don''t want to do," responded Rowan. "If you''re notfortable with it, just put it on the table."

    "I don''t like ufortable things in life," said Hyson.

    "But who said life was supposed to befortable?"

    Hyson suddenlyughed at that and shook his head, "You are really raised by somepetent people to have such clear thoughts in life. And seeing your parents, I guess they arepetent."

    "They aren''t the best parents out there you know," said Rowan. "But it''s their first time being parents so they are trying their best. Can you believe that they even had a meeting with me where they discussed what are the things they are doing wrong and what I''d like them to change?"

    "They really did that?"

    Rowan nodded, "They aren''t following the parental manual. They are just being themselves. But I love that about them."

    "You have cool parents."

    "No, they can be very embarrassing," replied Rowan. "You have no idea how they embarrassed me at thest sports event in our school."

    "Well, every child believes their parents are embarrassing. Just get used to it. At least, you have someone to go there for you."

    "You didn''t have it?"

    Hyson shook his head, "My mom was too insecure, unconfident to face the world. So, I usually didn''t attend the sports event. And when I did, it was my godmother who went with me and with herpetitive spirit, she almost made everyone kneel before her."

    "It''s only right that people bow down to the queens. It''s as it should be."

    Hyson looked at his serious expression and feltplicated for a moment.

    "Where did you hear that now?"

    "My Baba says that," replied Rowan. "He always tells me that my mommy is the queen. It''s okay for us men of our family to bow down before her. There is nothing wrong with that."

    "So, the ruler of the family is your mommy?"

    Rowan shook his head, "Nope."

    "No?"

    "Not at all," Rowan emphasized. "Let me tell you a secret. Everyone believes that it''s my mommy who controls everything in the family. The truth is, she isn''t the boss. My Baba is the real hidden boss. He just keeps a low profile and makes it seem like everything is being done ording to his wife''s wishes. In truth, it''s my mommy who revolves around my Baba''s wishes. Whatever he says, goes! My mom''s priorities are straight. At the top of the list is my dad, then is her sleep, then is wine."

    "What about you?"

    "Oh? Me? How can I overtake her Baobei or even her wine!"

    "I feel like it''d be quite fun to be a part of your family."

    "It''s a chaotic family. You''d love it." He tsked sadly, "I don''t have someone close to your age in the family anymore or I''d introduce you. Although Aunt Ashley is there, she just got a new boyfriend and also, she won''t be a good match for you."

    "Hey! How old are you to even think about matchmaking me with others?"

    "I''m just telling you how it''s not possible to be a part of my chaotic family since my sisters are still young."

    "Aren''t you an only son?"

    "I have cousins!" replied Rowan. "I have two older cousins. Both my sisters love me."

    "I think there is no one who won''t love you."

    Rowan smiled sweetly, "That''s true. Everyone does seem to love me."

    Hyson shook his head at this little guy before he looked into the crowd. He caught a glimpse of Zhai Kuijun once again but this time, he didn''t duck down or tried to run. He just sat there and contemted.

 Chapter 1092: Qualities

    Chapter 1092: Qualities"Zhao, stop looking!"

    Mu Chenyan had toe all the way from the other side of the hall to say this to Xia Zhao whose eyes had been glued to her since he came. Everywhere she went, she could feel his gaze. It made the cells in her body do something inexplicable. She couldn''t even describe it right now.

    "Now, there is a problem with me looking too?" asked Xia Zhao. "Soon, you''re gonna have a problem with me breathing too. Should I stop breathing too?"

    "Yes!" she replied. "If I tell you to stop looking, you stop. If I tell you to stop breathing, you do that too!"

    "Unreasonable!"mented Xia Zhao.

    "Then don''t take it too far. I didn''t ask you to stop breathing. I''m just asking you to stop looking at me."

    "Why?" asked Xia Zhao. "Give me one reason why I should."

    "You''re making me feel ufortable."

    "My whole existence had been quite ufortable to you for as long as I can remember," replied Xia Zhao to Mu Chenyan. "I thought you got used to this ufortable feeling."

    "Zhao, what do you want?"

    "How about a dance, Yanzi?" suggested Xia Zhao. "I''ll stop looking if you''re willing to have a dance with me."

    Mu Chenyan paused and stared at him, "You wanna dance with me?"

    "Yes," replied Xia Zhao. "It''s a good bargain. I''ll really stop looking after the dance is done."

    Mu Chenyan thought about it before she extended her hand toward him, "Let''s go then."

    He naturally took her hand and walked towards the dance floor.

    "You do know how to dance right?" asked Mu Chenyan suspiciously.

    "Are you still doubting my abilities?" he retorted and Mu Chenyan shut up instantly. It was truly pointless to even ask that question. She had yet to find something he couldn''t actually do. How could it not be infuriating when someone had so many talents? People like him were the real bullies who didn''t give others a way out.

    Although she didn''t speak out her thoughts, it wasn''t that difficult for Xia Zhao to see her thoughts.

    As the two of them got on the dance floor, there were actually a lot of eyes that fell on this pair. And this attention wasn''t just from the family. But also from the guests. Mu Chenyan had a mboyant way of doing things and was a social butterfly. Xia Zhao was reclusive and lived a mysterious life. However, no one dared to offend both these two people with pr opposite personalities.

    One thing was simr about them, they both were vengeful.

    "What is wrong with you?" asked Mu Chenyan when they started dancing.

    "What is wrong with me?" repeated Xia Zhao.

    "I don''t know," she replied. "You''re acting weird. I''m unable to understand you today."

    "You''re never able to understand me," was Xia Zhao''s response. "There is nothing new about that."

    "And is it my fault?" she asked. "It''s your fault. If I am unable to understand, you should make me understand."

    "Right. I should always do everything because Yanzi is toozy to even think for an extra minute when ites to me. Am I really that unimportant to you? You know how it hurt that you didn''t even bother contacting me in all these years. You just went abroad. It''s not like you''re leaving the earth and shifting to mars that you decided to end all our contact."

    "You don''t know why I did that?" she retorted. "You know it. And if I didn''t do it. You didn''t too. You kepting to see Elder Xiang but you didn''t even bother to see me? Who is unimportant to whom exactly?"

    "I told you, I won''t look for you," he told her. "The next time we meet, it''d have to be you looking for me instead."

    "And didn''t it happen?" she asked. "Didn''t Ie looking for you?"

    Xia Zhao shook his head with a bitter smile, "Sadly, you came to look for the artist behind that painting. Because you wanted to buy it."

    "But that''s because I knew that the artist is you," she told him.

    "Then should I say thank you?"

    "There is no need for that." She replied awkwardly and avoided his eyes. Thinking of something, she asked, "How is your wound?"

    He raised his brow slightly and it took a moment to realize what she was asking about, "You mean the bite mark? I don''t really consider it a wound. And it''s been a while. It recovered long ago." He took a pause and added, "Are you really worrying about that? Are you forgetting that you''ve hurt me even worse?"

    "We were young back then," she replied. "Getting injuries was equal to growing up. Haven''t you heard? If you don''t fall, how will you learn to stand back up? The same concept applies here. If you don''t get hurt, how will you grow?"

    "Sure," said Xia Zhao. "How can you ever be wrong?"

    "Right? I''m never wrong."

    "It''s just that I don''t feel like proving you wrong," he said. "Or else, I''d really tell you where and how you had been wrong."

    "Why do you always see my ws? Do I have no qualities?"

    "Sure. You''re tenacious. I''ll give you that. No matter how many times you lost, you didn''t lose your will to win. That''s a big win in itself. So, I''ll give you that."

    Mu Chenyan intentionally stepped on his foot and gritted out, "So, my looks are not included in my qualities? Or earlier when you said that I looked beautiful, you''re just lying."

    Xia Zhao didn''t even flinch when she stepped on his foot with her high heel. First, he already was mentally prepared for that when he asked her for a dance. Second, he really didn''t care about this pain.

    He suddenly lifted his hand and tucked her hair behind her ear. The tips of his warm fingers brushed against her cold ear making her shudder slightly as he said in a low voice, "I don''t lie. You should be very clear about that."

 Chapter 1093: [Bonus chapter] The Last Time

    Chapter 1093: [Bonus chapter] The Last TimeMu Chenyan instinctively took a step away from him and looked at him strangely before saying, "We''re done here." Then she fleed.

    Xia Zhao looked at her retreating back and had an amusing look in his eyes. Howe he didn''t know that this bold woman had such an adorable side? She was so easily tricked.

    He shook his head and was about to go back to his table when someone ced a hand on his shoulder. Xia Zhao turned around and came face to face with a stern face.

    "Brother Lin," called out Xia Zhao respectfully. He didn''t dare be rude to Xiang Hulin since he was Mu Chenyan''s elder brother and also Mu Chenyan''s reverse scale.

    "It''s been a while, Zhao," replied Xiang Hulin. "Do you have a moment?"

    "Yes," replied Xia Zhao.

    "Then let''s step aside," said Xiang Hulin and took Xia Zhao with him to a secluded corner. He didn''t immediately start talking and neither did Xia Zhao rushed him. He patiently waited for Xiang Hulin to start the conversation. "Do you know why I called you out here?"

    "I don''t know," replied Xia Zhao honestly. "But I have an intuition that it has something to do with Yanzi."

    "You''re still intuitive as ever," said Xiang Hulin. "And you''re right once again. I do want to talk about Chenchen with you." He took a pause to observe Xia Zhao''s expressions before continuing, "What are you up to? What exactly are your intentions towards my sister?"

    "I think it''s very obvious," responded Xia Zhao.

    "No, it''s not," said Xiang Hulin. "I don''t know if you recall or not, but we had the same conversation when you both were teenagers. And your answer was, Yanzi is very important to you but you don''t see her as your life partner."

    Xia Zhao scratched his chin when he was reminded of that.

    Actually, when they were younger, most people assumed that he had feelings for Mu Chenyan whenever they saw them together. Because he was always patient with her, he was more talkative with her around, he was willing to lose to her, he was willing to do whatever to make her happy and he never said no to her.

    Now that he recalled all that, he had to say that the signs were there. Maybe he had feelings for Mu Chenyan for the longest time but he was oblivious to it and didn''t think it was love. He knew his feelings for Mu Chenyan were unusual but he wasn''t able to give those feelings a name until now.

    Only now he was certain about what he felt for her.

    "Do you want me to say that I was a fool who wasn''t able to recognize his own feelings?"

    Xiang Hulin gave him a look, "Oh, you''re indeed a fool." He didn''t bother being nice right now. "I told you to think carefully about you and Chenchen but you insisted, it wasn''t what I was thinking. Now, who was the blind one? Me or you?"

    "Me," Xia Zhao epted his own mistake obediently without quibbling.

    This attitude of epting his own mistakes was quite to Xiang Hulin''s liking. "Actually, I can''t me you entirely too. You aren''t the only fool. Chenchen is also the same."

    Xia Zhao looked at him, "Do you also think she has feelings for me?"

    "Yes," said Xiang Hulin straightforwardly because he believed if he still spoke in a roundabout way, these two would never learn. "She always takes you as a challenge but do you understand why? She subconsciously thinks she has to be at least as good as you are to be able to stand beside you. She has a habit of denying her own feelings. She has a history of denial."

    "But she has hurt my feelings a lot too knowingly," mentioned Xia Zhao.

    "You must have hurt her too so she chose to do the same," said Xiang Hulin. "In my opinion, you should both stop ying games and just sit down and talk. Although I don''t think anyone deserves my sister, you''re still better than most. So, I''ll reluctantly ept you."

    "Well, thank you very much for that," said Xia Zhao with a smile.

    "Do a better job. I''m watching you," with that Xiang Hulin stepped away and Xia Zhao shook his head.

    Then he walked towards the table where his seat was arranged and looked at the tag of the person next to him. Oh, it seemed his nephew''s seat was right next to him but where was this nephew?

    Speak of the devil and the devil shall appear.

    As soon as Xia Zhao thought of Ru, Young Master Ru appeared and sat down beside him as he muttered, "It seems I''mte." He picked up a water bottle and unscrewed the cap before taking a sip. And as he was drinking the water, he heard a very familiar voice from the seat next to him.

    "Oh, what a pleasant surprise to see you here! Young. Master. Ru!" The person enunciated each word with great force making Ru almost choke on the water he was drinking and looked over at the person who spoke. Seeing that familiar face, he suddenly sighed.

    "It seems I should talk with the person who arranged the seating for this party," muttered Ru. Then with a smirk, Ru looked at the person on his right side, saying, "It''s Mr. Xiao Zhiren. What an unexpected surprise!" Taking a pause, he added, "My mistake. It should be, Mr. Ji Zhiren now. My bad. My bad. My memory isn''t as good as it used to be when I was younger."

    Xia Zhao from Ru''s left side almost rolled his eyes when he heard Ru talking about bad memory. Who was young master Ru even trying to fool right now? But he was suddenly curious about the man on Ru''s other side too who could recognize Young Master Ru. He couldn''t be simple if he was familiar with Ru''s identity.

    "Long time no see, Zhiren," said Ru. "Thest time we met was..."

    "Was when you broke my heart, twisted it with your own hands, and then discarded it before stepping on it heartlessly and cruelly walking away from me."

 Chapter 1094: Pity?

    Chapter 1094: Pity?Xia Zhao''s eyes widened when he heard that and he sat up straight. All his attention was on the gossip regarding his nephew even though he was pretending like he heard nothing at all.

    Ruughed awkwardly, "Yeah. That... That was certainly thest time."

    "I guess your memory isn''t all that bad indeed,"mented Ji Zhiren.

    Ru actually didn''t respond to that and just took another sip of the water in her hand.

    "I thought I''d never see you again," mentioned Ji Zhiren. "It''s surprising that we ran into each other. Should I call it fate?"

    This time, Ru turned around to face him and said, "We have always been ill-fated. I don''t need to remind you of that now, do I?"

    Ji Zhiren shook his head, "No, you don''t have to. You said everything you had to say when west met. I don''t think there is anything to add to that."

    "I really have nothing to add to that," said Ru. "But if you want me to repeat my words, I can do it."

    "So that you can break me all over again?"

    "You and I both know that I''ve always loved to break things and people. How could it be any different now?" Ru gave him a lopsided grin, "But you can''t handle that part of me."

    "You don''t give me a chance."

    "I did," Ru replied. "I gave you a chance. It''s you who got overwhelmed by my insanity. How is that my fault? I told you my darkness will give you nightmares. You insisted on walking inside my world. But you got deterred too soon. You can''t me me for that." Young Master Ru looked away, "You don''t expect me to change myself, do you?"

    "So, it''s still my fault that you let go of my hand?"

    "Who asked you to be scared of me?" retorted Ru.

    Ji Zhiren''s lips parted as if he wanted to say something but in the end, he dropped it. Instead, he said, "My Ji family has to give a face to the Xiang family, that''s why I came as the representative. What about you, Young Master Ru? I don''t think anyone can force you to be here."

    "This young master came willingly," replied Ru. "I quite like the bride and I like the groom even more." Ji Zhiren''s brows raised up as Ru continued, "It seems I have a special liking for sentimental men." As he said it, those green orbs were set on Ji Zhiren''s figure who understood the meaning clearly and smiled bitterly. Taking a pause, Ru added, "By the way, since we met here. Congrattions!"

    "For what?"

    "For your engagement," said Ru. "Why did youe alone? I could see your fianc¨¦e if you brought her together."

    Ji Zhiren went silent for a while when he heard that congrattion.

    "You''re truly heartless," hemented. "But thank you very much. My fianc¨¦e happened to be busy. So, I came alone. Don''t worry, I''ll send you the invitation to our wedding."

    "Oh, then I''d definitelye," said Ru with a bright smile.

    Ji Zhiren clenched his fist tightly facing that reaction and stood up as he said, "Excuse me. I''m gonna step out for a smoke."

    "When did you start smoking?" asked Ru in confusion.

    He looked back and said, "I had to fill the void you left with something."

    Xia Zhao gaped when he heard those words and couldn''t help turning to look at the two of them. He didn''t bother hiding that he was eavesdropping all this while.

    Ru crossed his arms against his chest as he said, "Are you sure, it isn''t because it reminded you of me?"

    "Either way, it brings me peace."

    Ru watched him leaving in silence and those green eyes had a bitter longing in them that wasn''t hidden at the moment. Xia Zhao was startled when he noticed it and looked at where Ji Zhiren was leaving. He was even more curious about the identity of the person. Actually, he knew the identity. Ji Zhiren, the eldest son of the Ji family from the Capital. One of the hidden ns that controlled the Capital. He was currently the head of the family too.

    But Xia Zhao wasn''t sure about how this Head of the Ji family was connected to Young Master Ru.

    "Are you done watching and listening, Uncle?"

    Xia Zhao nodded his head, "I am. But I''m not sure what''s going on."

    "Do you have to know? Don''t you know curiosity kills?"

    "Ru!" he called out. "He is your ex-boyfriend?"

    "Can''t say that," replied Ru. "We never really got to the stage of dating. But calling him my first love won''t be wrong."

    "He knows?" asked Xia Zhao. He lowered his voice as he added, "About your gender and your real identity?"

    "He does know," answered Ru.

    Xia Zhao was stunned for a moment.

    "He knows everything," added Ru. "The problem is that he knows too much. Do you think anyone can handle what I am, uncle?"

    "There is nothing wrong with you," said Xia Zhao. "You have a beautiful heart."

    Ruughed, "But so what? It won''t hide my darkness, or my insanity or the chaos I am capable of. A beautiful heart isn''t enough in the world we live in, Uncle. People like him who grew up in light are often scared of the darkness."

    "And he got scared too?"

    "Hmm..."

    Xia Zhao sighed, "It''s okay. We don''t need someone who can''t ept who you are. You have too many responsibilities on your shoulders from the moment you''re born. The biggest responsibility was to even deny your own gender. With the expectations associated with you, it''d be dangerous if you''re too kind hearted."

    "Uncle, do you know I tried being kind. But whenever I was kind, it came back to bite me. I almost died because of an act of kindness. That was too heavy a price of kindness."

    "In my opinion, you''re still very kind," said Xia Zhao. "Or else, Raelle and Hyson wouldn''t have liked you instantly."

    "I think it''s because those two also don''t fit in the definition of normal like I never did," said Ru. "He said, he wanted to have a normal life with me. But how is that possible when I was never considered normal?"

    "Do you regret it?" asked Xia Zhao. "Letting him go like that?"

    "Regret?" repeated Ru and shook his head. "Not really. I trust my own judgement. It was either I lose myself or keep that love. I prefer not losing myself." Ru looked at him and smiled, "Uncle, I always say it, when love bes painful, it''s better to let it go. Cut your losses in time. You might think the pain would be worth it, but deep down everyone knows that pain is never worth it."

    "Your ideas still don''t follow the rules," sighed Xia Zhao.

    "You should stop staring at me and focus on yourself," said Ru. "My goal in life was never love. I never dreamed of having love or building a warm family. My goal was always freedom. So, you should definitely not pity me."

    "Pity?" repeated Xia Zhao and snorted. "Who would pity you? Do I need to remind you of who you are?" He almost rolled his eyes, "Who would pity you? I definitely won''t pity you of all people."

    "But I pity you," said Ru. "Do you want any help in proposing? I can definitely do it better since I have experience."

    "I can do it myself."

    "If I continued to leave it to you, when will I see your children and when will I get to bully them?"

    Xia Zhao red at Ru, "Do you dare to bully my kids?"

    "Why not?" retorted Ru. "I''m all ready to do it! Bring it on!"

    "I still haven''t decided whether to have kids or not though. It depends on Yanzi."

    Ru sneered, "Why don''t you first think about whether she''d be willing to be with you or not? Don''t get too ahead of yourself already."

    "You don''t have to worry. She will agree."

    "Are you overconfident?"

    "No, I just know it."

    "Then look for me when you need any kind of help. Even if it''s tearing down the stars from the sky, I''d help you, Uncle. Have faith in me," Ru was saying as he stood up.

    "Where are you going on?"

    "I also want to smoke," said Ru. "But if I touched a cigarette, grandfather is gonna beat me. So, I''m just gonna get some fresh air. No, it''s better if I go and get something to eat instead."

    Suddenly a girl came over to ask Ru for a dance and the gentlemanly young master Ru tactfully refused the girl but still made her smile even though she was rejected. Xia Zhao''s lips twitched watching this scene. It was truly a mistake for the heavens to send Ru down on earth as a woman. He couldn''t believe this deceiver was so good at charming both genders. A real heartbreaker!

 Chapter 1095: Do Tell

    Chapter 1095: Do Tell"Yanyan!"

    Mu Chenyan looked back at Hyson and frowned when she saw his pouty face. He looked like a kid who had been greatly wronged. She felt likeughing but decided not to since she knew Hyson would blow his top if she reallyughed at him right now.

    "What''s wrong my little darling?"

    "Are you sure I''m still your little darling?" Asked Hyson.

    "How can that ever change?"

    Hyson pointed towards Xiang Weimin who was holding Justin up in his arms as Justin''s little arms were wrapped around his neck. It seemed Justin was truly unwilling to get down once he was held up. Usually, he''d try to be a big kid and not be a burden to his mother but he felt no such scruples when it came to Xiang Weimin.

    "I''m being dethroned!"

    This time Mu Chenyan burst outughing at him. Hyson puffed up his cheeks unwillingly when he saw her acting like this and hmphed as he looked away refusing to even look at her right now.

    "Sorry, sorry! I couldn''t control it," said Mu Chenyan as she wiped the tears from the corner of her eyes. Sheughed so much that tears wereing out now. This was so surprising. Then she stepped up and pinched Hyson''s cheeks as she said, "You''re my one and only godson in this world. Who can dethrone you? You will always be the little prince of our family." She took a pause before adding, "But seriously, don''t you feel bad about even fighting with a little kid?"

    "No, I don''t," retorted Hyson. "Why should I feel bad about it? I''m just that childish and petty. Don''t you already know? Although I quite like that cutie, I won''t let him take away my godmother."

    "So possessive. Why aren''t you this possessive about your own mother? Someone already took her."

    Hyson turned to find his mother and actually found her on the dance floor with Zhai Yanjun which made his brows furrow up a little but then she shrugged, "I can''t argue with her. I can only do it with you." Taking a pause, he added, "Although I''m a little unwilling to lose my position as the youngest baby of the family, that cutie is still my nephew. Do something and bring him back home. Does it even look right that our family''s child is wandering around the world like this?"

    Mu Chenyan smiled lovingly at Hyson and patted his head, "Don''t worry. We won''t let that happen. You''ll get your nephew soon and then you can pamper him all you want."

    "Who said I want to pamper him?" Hyson was still stubbornly denying it.

    Mu Chenyan shook her head and said, "Do you think I don''t know how much you like kids? Just earlier I saw you with Soren''s twins. Also, you looked so close to little Rowan too. I never knew my little prince was so good with kids."

    Hyson chuckled, "Maybe it''s because we all are kids. I feel like I''ve found mypanions."

    "Shameless."

    Hyson grinned, "I learned it all from you." Leaving this aside, he held Mu Chenyan''s arm and said, "I can''t believe that you didn''t dance with me. My Yanyan is looking stunning tonight. How can you not dance with me?"

    "Don''t you dislike dancing the most?" Asked Mu Chenyan. "Even after bing an idol, your most hateful thing is dancing."

    "That''s different. I can definitely dance with you."

    "Well, I don''t want to. Do you think I haven''t seen how many girls have gone to ask you for a dance and got rejected? What if they all threw daggers at me with their eyes? I better stay out of their radar."

    Hyson gaped at her, "And when did my Yanyan be scared of anyone or anything? Tell me the truth, your heels are notfortable, right?"

    Mu Chenyan gritted her teeth and sighed, "You! Why can''t you just take my word for it? Okay, I ept. My heels just bit me. It''s really notfortable."

    "Then why did you wear it?"

    "Because Yue said it looks good."

    Hyson was silent for a while when he heard that and pulled her to sit down at a chair as he said, "You need to learn to say no to my mum. You can''t always follow her whims."

    Then crouched down to take off her heels and looked at the blisters. He shook his head.

    "Fai, you should listen to your own advice. Haven''t you also been following your mum''s whims all this while? Sometimes, you should do what you want to do. Doesn''t it feel strange that you don''t have a dream of your own?"

    "Dreams are for people whock something in life. I don''tck anything. Even if I do, I have the omnipotent Godmother named Mu Chenyan who is like my fairy godmother and can make anything possible. Why should I dream then?"

    "You and your sweet mouth. Why don''t you use this sweet mouth to coax some girl and find a girlfriend?"

    Hyson looked up at her, "You usually don''t ask me to find a girlfriend. Besides, only you think I have a sweet mouth, others say I usually spit out sweet poison."

    Mu Chenyanughed at that.

    *Cough*

    The sound of cough made both Mu Chenyan and Hyson look back. They saw Zhai Kuijun and didn''t react for a moment.

    "Anything we can help you with, Mr. Zhai?" Asked Mu Chenyan.

    Zhai Kuijun looked at Hyson and said, "I was wondering if I could have a moment with Yue Fai."

    Mu Chenyan didn''t say anything and instead looked at Hyson. She didn''t think she needed to get involved unless Hyson wanted her to get involved. For now, she''d just sit back and watch.

    These weeks she had clearly been observing Zhai Kuijun and her hostility was actually not as much as it was initially. Now, she actually understood better what position this man had in Yue Yue''s heart.

    "Fai," called out Mu Chenyan. "What do you think?"

    Hyson who had been running from this man all night, finally stopped running and stood up as he said, "Okay. Let''s find a ce to talk then."

    Zhai Kuijun visibly breathed a sigh of relief and took him aside. Aftering to a side, he didn''t say anything first. He just stared at Hyson''s face. The more he looked, the more he felt like he must be an idiot to not see the obvious signs. With Hyson''s simrity with Zhai Yanjun, it''d be surprising if they weren''t brothers.

    "I don''t know where to begin."

    "Then should I go? You can first think about it and then call me over."

    Zhai Kuijun shook his head, "No, wait. I... You already know what I want to say, right? That''s why you''d been hiding from me."

    "The reason I was hiding is that I just felt ufortable facing you. I didn''t know what to say or how to react. And when I don''t know the answers, I usually avoid the situation."

    "Did you always know I was your... Father?"

    "No," replied Hyson. "Mum wanted to tell me but I wasn''t interested in learning about a man who yed no part in my life except for providing the means to bring me into this world. But you see, I have keen observation skills. When I first met you, I already had the answer without searching for it."

    "Do you hate me? For making your mom suffer?"

    Hyson shook his head, "I don''t think I have the right to hate you. You didn''t do anything to me. My mom suffered mostly because of her own choices. It was little to do with you and more to do with her own insecurities and cowardice."

    Zhai Kuijun was surprised to hear thising from Hyson. He already knew how this boy was protective of his mother and what she meant to him.

    "You''re a very smart boy,"mented Zhai Kuijun. "And a very good boy too. It''s surprising to see how clear you are about everything at such an age. I wish I was so clear when I was your age."

    "That''s why it''s surprising for me too that I have your genes. After all, I don''t think I got my smartness from you or my mum. If I did, I might have been eaten by wolves by now."

    "Ouch!" Responded Zhai Kuijun. "You really don''t hold back, do you?"

    "Did I say something wrong? You and my mum both got yed by the same woman and ruined your lives. Should I call you smart? It''d be an insult to smart people. I''m sorry to offend you but you both really make me wonder from whom did I get my brain. I am unwilling to believe it came from you two."

    Zhai Kuijun chuckled at that, "I can''t even argue with you. In fact, I don''t want to argue with you."

    "Why? You think if you won''t argue and give in, it''d be easier for me to ept you?"

    "I know you don''t want to ept me. I''m very clear about that. And I''m not here to force you or convince you otherwise. It''s just that I wanted to see you. It''s my first time looking at you as my son. It''s definitely different than thest time we saw each other."

 Chapter 1096: Old Father Look

    Chapter 1096: Old Father Look"Hmm..." Hyson hummed softly in response. "Indeed, it does feel a little different. At first, I was the one in control since only I knew what our rtionship is but now, I''ve lost control of the situation."

    "Is it bad?" asked Zhai Kuijun in amusement. He didn''t know why but seeing Hyson talking about how he lost control of the situation actually amused him a little. Especially, the way he actually said it made it seem like they were in some kind of a spy movie or something.

    "Nah. No truth stays buried for life," responded Hyson honestly. "I always knew one day you''d learn the truth. I had known this from the moment I first met Yanjun Ge." He took a pause and added, "I have always been a long-winded person. I think far ahead. From the moment, one person from my mum''s past entered our life, I knew the dominos were about to fall and there was no going back. If I was truly scared of seeing you, I''d have cut off any chances of seeing you again in time."

    Zhai Kuijun observed him for a moment before sighing out loud, "You surprise me more and more." He scratched his brow as he said, "I am also doubting where you got your intelligence from. I guess two negatives do give birth to a positive."

    Hyson pursed his lips when he heard that and then he burst outughing out loud. "What did you just say?"

    "Am I wrong? I can only think of that logic," replied Zhai Kuijun as he shrugged nonchntly.

    "I don''t know if you''re trying to be funny or not but it does sound right," said Hyson. "Two negatives did give birth to a positive baby like me. That''s something I thought I''d only hear from Ellie. Because that sounds like something she''d say."

    Zhai Kuijun''s eyes narrowed as he smiled to himself seeing how happy Hyson looked right now. He was actually feeling gratified right now that he was able to make his sonugh. It was difficult to amuse Zhai Yanjun but it seemed it wasn''t that difficult when it came to Hyson. But that had little to do with himself and more to do with Hyson''s cheerful personality that could find a reason tough anywhere and anytime.

    "Don''t look at me with those eyes," said Hyson as he stoppedughing.

    "What look?" inquired Zhai Kuijun cluelessly.

    "That ''old father'' looking at his ''young son'' look," replied Hyson.

    "Oh."

    "I''m actually surprised that you didn''t tell your parents anything," said Hyson.

    "I thought about it and decided not to say anything for now," replied Zhai Kuijun.

    "Why?" asked Hyson. "Is it shameful to have an illegitimate son?"

    Zhai Kuijun red at him sternly, "Don''t say that again. There is nothing shameful about your birth. I won''t let anyone question your birth."

    "You can''t control people," said Hyson.

    "Yes. I know," replied Zhai Kuijun. "I really can''t control people and their mouths. But I''ll still try my best to not let anyone point a finger at you. Even if that means that I don''t ever get the right to be called your father."

    Hyson was slightly shaken when he heard that response and stared at Zhai Kuijun carefully. Zhai Kuijun didn''t know what was on Hyson''s mind right now but he didn''t disturb Hyson''s silence and allowed him to just look at him. He already knew Hyson''s mind worked differently so there was no point in wondering if it was better to just wait for Hyson to speak up.

    "I thought you were eager to have a son?" said Hyson.

    "Not if it means you be the dinner-time gossip of people," responded Zhai Kuijun.

    "Are you trying to protect me?" asked Hyson.

    "Even if the world doesn''t get to know, you''d still be my youngest son. It won''t change whether I get the status of your father or not. What matters is that I''ll try my best to protect the peace in your life. I haven''t done anything for you in these years. The least I can do is to try not to ruin the life you have built for yourself with so much hard work and effort. You''re a star, it''ll definitely have an effect on you if people learned about your birth and I don''t want that."

    Hyson''s lips curled up slightly as he nodded to himself, "I think I can see a little why my mum fell so badly in love with you. You aren''t that bad, Mr. Zhai. I guess I wronged you."

    Zhai Kuijun shook his head, "No. Not at all. You haven''t wronged me at all. It''s me."

    "I already told you, you have done nothing."

    "Isn''t that the point? I didn''t do anything for you. It''ll always be a thorn in my heart." He sniffled and added, "By the way, the reason I didn''t tell my parents isn''t that I''m ashamed. Or that they won''t ept you. It''s because they might get too excited and being old, they get a little childish. I don''t want them to use their age to pressure you in any way. I know how happy you are in your life. I can''t possibly ask for anything more."

    "So, you don''t want a son now?"

    "You''ll always be my son," said Zhai Kuijun. "Whether you like it or not. Unless you change the blood in your veins. You''ll always be my son."

    Hyson was silent for a while again. To be honest, there was nothing on his mind right now. Even he couldn''t remember why he seemed to be hiding from this man. It wasn''t all that bad to hold a conversation with this ''father'' of his. He didn''t have a dream of having a father and never did he even imagine what kind of a father he wanted. But this one didn''t seem all that bad.

    He looked towards the banquet hall and his eyes went straight to the stage where Raelle stood with a smile on her face. Seeing that smile, he smiled to himself and tsked at himself. How could he call himself Raelle Xiang''s best friend? He actually took so long to face things while his best friend would never hide from any situation. It seems like he let her down a little.

 Chapter 1097: [Bonus chapter] Age Of Cuteness

    Chapter 1097: [Bonus chapter] Age Of Cuteness"Did I say I don''t need a father?" asked Hyson.

    "I know," said Zhai Kuijun. "I told you, I just wanted to meet you. I''m not trying to im my position as a father in your life."

    "That''s good," said Hyson. "Then we''re all good."

    "We are?" asked Zhai Kuijun in surprise.

    Hyson pointed towards the stage and said, "Do you see my best friend?"

    "I do," replied Zhai Kuijun as he followed the lead and looked at the gorgeous woman standing on the stage beside Shui Xian. She looked dazzling as always. How could anyone not see her? Even in a crowd, she was eye-catching. Much less now that she was the protagonist tonight. Who would dare to overlook her? Was it even possible?

    "She also has a father," added Hyson making Zhai Kuijun frown slightly. "You''d know that. You''re quite close to her father."

    "I am close to her father," epted Zhai Kuijun. "What are you trying to say?" He added.

    "Then you must know what kind of a rtionship she shared with her father."

    "Yes," replied Zhai Kuijun. "They seem to be familiar strangers." He took a pause and looked at Hyson, "You want us to be like that?"

    "Not really," said Hyson. "I think we can do better. For now, we are familiar strangers. As for the future. That depends on your rtionship with my mum. If you do end up together, I think I can be your stepson at that time."

    Zhai Kuijun''s eyes brightened up when he heard it. He didn''t even mind the word stepson as it sounded way too good to him right now. It''d actually allow him to rightfully make Hyson his son. Even if he would be a son with a different surname. He didn''t give a damn about that at all.

    "Really?" he asked again to reconfirm that he wasn''t hallucinating right now.

    "Don''t get too excited," said Hyson. "I still don''t need a father. But with time, I think we can be friends."

    "I don''t mind," said Zhai Kuijun.

    "Tsk. How are you so easily satisfied?"

    "I don''t know. I just feel happy that you''re willing to give me a chance to enter your life. It doesn''t matter how or in what name."

    "You''d eventually enter my life if you manage to enter my mum''s life."

    "That''s different. I understand that you won''t deny me once Yue''er gets involved. But it won''t be from your heart. So, your words right now are too important to me."

    Hyson avoided his emotional eyes and looked away. He couldn''t take it for a moment. So, to change the direction of their conversation, he pointed towards the dance floor and said, "Look, your son is attracting bees while he is dancing with the butterfly of his life."

    Zhai Kuijun also found Zhai Yanjun on the dance floor with Xiang Wai. Both of them looked perfect together. So much so that even Zhai Kuijun couldn''t look away from them for a moment.

    "You should take this chance and get them to tie the knot. Don''t dy. They both have a habit of creating misunderstandings on their own."

    Zhai Kuijun looked back at Hyson, "Yanjun was right."

    "About what?"

    "You seem indifferent but you really care about him."

    Hyson looked a little unnatural for a moment before he epted it graciously. "Don''t tell him but I quite like this brother. From the moment we met, although we bickered I liked him. It was only when I learned that he is your son that I started keeping my distance from him and annoyed him even more than before. But it won''t change the fact that I like him." He lowered his voice and added, "Also, I''m a kind-hearted person. Someone like him who has a hole in his brain needs help from a smart person like me. So, I kindly extended my hand to help him a little."

    Zhai Kuijunughed out loud.

    "What''s so funny?" asked Hyson unhappily.

    "Nothing. It''s just that Yanjun already told me all that. He said you''d say this about him. I didn''t even realize that you two are so close."

    "Who is close to him?" Hyson refused to ept it. "Who can get close to a fool like him? Won''t my intelligence get lowered by associating with him?"

    "You''re so cute," said Zhai Kuijun.

    "I know," responded Hyson instinctively before he shook his head. "No. I mean how can you call me cute at this age? I''m long past the age of cuteness. Don''t get it wrong or this pact between us is over. I won''t be your stepson either."

    "Okay, okay. I won''t say it again," Zhai Kuijun acquiesced quite easily and Hyson was finally satisfied.

    While Hyson was fooling Zhai Kuijun, a sharp gaze fell on him. It was none other than Raelle who had already caught sight of Hyson from the moment he was staring at her. And when she noticed Zhai Kuijun beside him, she paid a little more attention.

    "He really wrapped his father around his little finger way too easily,"mented Raelle.

    "Hm?" Shui Xian looked at Raelle. "Who are you talking about, wifey?"

    "There is only best friend of mine who is way too good at duping," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian chuckled at that, "How can you say that about our Fai? He is such a sweetheart."

    "See? He duped you too," was Raelle''s response.

    Shui Xian shook his head and said, "No, he didn''t. He is a very sincere person. He is cheerful and bright. Who won''t like him? But you''re right. He can really make people like him way too easily. So, I am not surprised that he''d be able to y around with Uncle Kuijun."

    "Well, he''ll be entertained," responded Raelle. "Now that Yanjun''s time is spent with Wai. Hyson had to find another person to annoy. And at this time, Mr. Zhai Kuijun just happened to be there. But I wonder what he said to make my prickly best friend actually let down his guard so easily."

 Chapter 1098: Black Spot

    Chapter 1098: ck SpotShui Xian took a moment before hemented, "Actually, honestly speaking, it''s not that difficult to like Uncle Kuijun. If Hyson put his prejudice aside for a moment, it''d be easy for him to see that Uncle Kuijun has a lot of qualities worth liking. He might have been deceived for a long time by his ex-wife but he isn''t a bad person. In fact, if he was a bad person, he wouldn''t have been easily manipted or deceived by his ex-wife."

    Raelle hummed in response and didn''t say anything since she had already had a simr conversation with Shui Xian before and she understood what Shui Xian thought about Zhai Kuijun.

    In truth, she also didn''t think he was a bad guy but that didn''t mean she was willing to force her best friend to ept him. Zhai Kuijun was a good man but so what? Xiang Hulin was also great, but did that mean she was willing to be close to him? Not really. She was okay with the rtionship they shared. They weren''t that close as a father and daughter but they weren''t exactly strangers anymore either. And she believed with Hyson''s personality, he could actually have a better rtionship with Zhai Kuijun than she did with Xiang Hulin.

    "Are you happy now?" she suddenly asked Shui Xian.

    "Huh?"

    "You got your wish and we had a dance."

    Shui Xian grinned at that, "Happy? No, that word isn''t even enough to describe my feelings right now." He held her hand as he took her to sit down because he couldn''t see her standing for so long in such high heels. It looked painful to him. Then he stared into her eyes and said, "Don''t always try to make me happy or I''ll get unscrupulous."

    "Haven''t I said before that I can afford it? No matter how you are or what you are, I''ll take it all."

    Before Shui Xian could say anything, someone disturbed the mood between them as they heard a thumping sound.

    Both of them looked over and found Tang Hebe standing there with an embarrassed look and she even touched the tip of her nose unnaturally as she didn''t know where to put her hands. She didn''t mean to disturb them at all.

    "What are you doing?" asked Shui Xian.

    "I..." Tang Hebe took a moment to answer, "I actually came to congratte you too but seeing that you seemed busy, I was meaning to leave quietly. Who knew my gown will get stuck while trying to pull it, my foot hit the chair. I guess I disturbed the romantic mood. I''m sorry. I''m really sorry."

    "You know, if I didn''t know any better, I''d think you did purposely."

    "But I didn''t," retorted Tang Hebe in her defense. "Why would I do that?"

    "Maybe to ruin my engagement."

    Tang Hebe narrowed her eyes at him and said, "You think you''re all that?"

    "Oh? Who was the one who looked at me with those loving eyes just a month ago?"

    Tang Hebe was reminded of her short amnesia and she wanted to bang her head against the wall once again. Why did her memory have to get stuck at that specific time period when she was madly in love with him? Why? Just WHY?!

    Now, she''d never be able to wash off this embarrassment in her life.

    "I never knew you could be this annoying, Xian," said Tang Hebe while gritting her teeth in frustration.

    "Well, now you know," replied Shui Xian casually. "Don''t you think it''s a good thing you got rid of me on time?"

    "Don''t talk to me. I''m here for Raelle. Not for you," said Tang Hebe. "You''re already bing a ck spot in my life. Everyone in my life thinks my life should revolve around you even if we have gotten divorced for years. Why is that so? They think I should be a little resentful woman who should hate you for moving on. So, I don''t even wanna associate with you anymore. Because I already know what kind of rumors are gonna fly tomorrow."

    "And yet you came here?"

    "As I said, I came for Raelle," replied Tang Hebe. "You aren''t that important in my life anymore. My son takes the most important ce in my life."

    "Really? Where is that son of yours though?"

    Tang Hebe went silent when she heard that question since Justin wasn''t with her. In fact, from the moment she entered the venue, her son hadn''t been with her at all. Oh, she was such a pitiful mother whose son left her behind. Usually, sons would leave their mothers after they met their wives. Why was her son in such a hurry to leave her behind?

    Raelle pulled back Shui Xian and said, "Hubby, stop inciting her intentionally." She looked at Tang Hebe and added, "I''m sorry about that. He seemed to have heard the rumors you were just talking about. Maybe that''s why he is so worked up."

    "You shouldn''t be protecting your husband everywhere," said Tang Hebe.

    "But he is my husband. If I don''t take his side, who will? Even if he is wrong, in front of the world, I''d still be on his side. Behind closed doors, it can be a different story."

    Shui Xian instantly lost his fighting spirit and smiled helplessly at his wife and decided to ignore Tang Hebe. He didn''t actually mind her presence. But it really riled him up how it seemed like his personal life was everyone''s business. He wasn''tfortable with the rumors flying around these days.

    His life might be revolving around Raelle but he wasn''t all that oblivious to things going on around him too. At least, he was clear about the fact that people had a lot to say about how he was a divorcee and that he didn''t deserve Raelle. As if he didn''t know all that himself. But the way those people said it made him want to get into a fight with these people who loved chewing their tongues.

 Chapter 1099: Masterpiece

    Chapter 1099: MasterpieceIn fact, at this moment, there were plenty of eyes set on Tang Hebe as she stood in front of Raelle and Shui Xian. Of course, most gossipmongers were looking for some tea as they picked their ears trying to hear the conversation.

    And it didn''t escape Raelle''s eyes either. At this moment, she seemed to have understood what Song Xin''ai had told her thest time. The interaction between exes would always give people a reason to gossip for days. It was really not easy being just friends after a breakup or a divorce. Maybe that''s why most broken couples would try to avoid seeing each other.

    Just because Raelle trusted Shui Xian didn''t mean people believed that too. After all, who hadn''t heard a thing or two regarding Shui Xian''s first marriage? There are no secrets in the elite circle. It''s just a matter of which secrets are talked about at the dinner table and which are the ones that are only said behind closed doors.

    "You both pay too much attention to rumors,"mented Raelle leisurely.

    At this moment, the most rxed person had to be Raelle who didn''t give a damn about what people were talking about or how people were peeping at them. After all, she had always been the unbothered queen. How could it be any different now?

    "Well, I have to," said Tang Hebe. "There are plenty of versions going around. And most of them assume that I''m here to ruin your big day."

    "Are you?" asked Raelle.

    "No," replied Tang Hebe. "I sincerely came to congratte you. And I only came because you invited me in person. It meant a lot to me. So, even if those people make me sound like a bad person, I had toe despite the ufortable feeling I was going through."

    "Then thank you foring," said Raelle. "As long as you and I know why you''re here, isn''t that enough? You can keep giving people a reason to talk about it. Doesn''t that only show that you''re very important to those people? After all, if they can put aside their own life and focus on yours, doesn''t it show your importance?"

    Tang Hebe suddenly smiled when she heard that and said, "Sometimes, you hurt me with words, and sometimes you lift me up. You give me a very contradictory feeling."

    "That''s one of my talents," responded Raelle.

    Tang Hebe looked at Shui Xian and said, "Congrattions to you too, Xian. I don''t know if you really believe it or not but I''m actually very happy for you. At least one of us found love in this heartless world. And you got your wish. You actually found someone who loves you selfishly instead of selflessly."

    Shui Xian silently observed her and seeing the sincerity in her gentle eyes, he was momentarily in a daze before he smiled at her and said, "Thank you and I hope you find yours too."

    "Oh, I''ll keep looking," replied Tang Hebe. "I decided to give up on it after one bad ending. But seeing your new chapter of life, I think it''s not bad to write a new beginning. Who knows, the second time might be a charm for me too, right?"

    "Then we wish you good luck," said Shui Xian.

    Seeing this pair of exes talking so amiably, a lot of people who were looking for drama had aplicated feelings.

    After Tang Hebe left, Raelle looked at Shui Xian and asked, "Do rumors bother you too, Hubby?"

    Shui Xian sighed, "They are a little ufortable. Even though I''m Master Xian, I still seem to be not good enough for President Raelle."

    "How is that possible?" asked Raelle. "You''re my Master Xian. If I''m acknowledging it, who gets to question me?" Raelle looked at Tang Hebe''s receding back as she changed the topic and said, "I think Tang Hebe is under a lot more pressure than you. I always heard men can get away with things but women don''t have it easy. I usually don''t understand it. But I seem to understand this situation. She is being pitied. She is looked down upon. People even look at her with a look of schadenfreude in their eyes. All in all, she had to stand up to a lot of things."

    "And I didn''t think she''d be able to handle it," Shui Xian shared his thoughts with her. He didn''t mind talking about his ex-wife with his current wife. After all, his current wife never took Tang Hebe as his ex-wife. To Raelle, Tang Hebe was just Tang Hebe. An individual who had her own identity. She didn''t feel the need to associate her with Shui Xian.

    Because she thought Tang Hebe deserved better. As a woman, she had her own identity. She shouldn''t be remembered for one failed rtionship of hers.

    "I actually thought she might note to our engagement. Because I could already tell how many people would gossip about her presence here. But even though she knew what kind of eyes she would have to face. She has be stronger."

    "People need to grow with time," said Raelle lightly. "If you don''t walk, how will you know what''s on the next stop? Every challenge in life makes you stronger and every failure makes you tenacious."

    "Well said!"

    Raelle looked up and met those smiling and proud eyes of Mu Chenyan.

    "My Elle speaks so beautifully that you just touch my heart," said Mu Chenyan.

    "You can stop before you go too far, Yanyan," reminded Raelle since she knew if she didn''t stop Mu Chenyan, this woman wouldn''t stop gushing over her. "It''s not like I said something new."

    "No, you don''t have to, my sweetheart!"

    Mu Chenyan lifted her hands as if she wanted to pinch her cheeks but stopped halfway through and put her hands down.

    "Oops, I forgot, I can''t touch you today. What if I ruin the makeup? I spent quite some time on this master piece."

    "I am the master piece here," said Raelle fully disying the arrogance in her bones. "Not the makeup!"

    Mu Chenyan chuckled at that, "Indeed. You''re the master piece. My most favorite and precious master piece. And I spent quite some years on you too."

    Now, who could argue with that statement? No one! That''s for sure.

 Chapter 1100: Sweet Couples

    Chapter 1100: Sweet CouplesFor a while, Mu Chenyan seemed to be just admiring this ''masterpiece'' before her eyes. The more she looked, the happier she became. She even giggled to herself like a young girl. Who knew what was on her mind but one thing was sure: her source of happiness truly was Raelle.

    This was an indisputable fact.

    Raelle let her admire her beauty in silence while Shui Xian didn''t dare say anything to Mu Chenyan.

    "Ancients were right," came a pleasant and slightly sweet voice behind Mu Chenyan. "Beauties are intoxicating. Even more than the aged wine."

    Mu Chenyan turned around and smiled at the person who came.

    "Look who is here," Mu Chenyan walked over and hugged the woman. "Xiu, what a pleasant surprise to see you here."

    Xiuughed at that, "Aunt MuMu, a pleasant surprise? Really? You invited me. You greeted me earlier too."

    "How is that a greeting? I didn''t even talk to you for a full minute with so many guests." Mu Chenyan pulled her over and looked at Raelle, "Come, I''ll introduce you to my Elle." She held Xiu''s hand and added, "Elle, meet Bai Xiu. I have told you about her before."

    Raelle looked at the big smile on Xiu''s face and greeted her, "Hello, Ms. Bai."

    "Hello, hello! It''s so nice to finally meet you in person," said Xiu. Then she turned to look at Shui Xian and added, "You really chose a match for yourself."

    "It''s me who chose him," Mu Chenyan chimed in.

    "Excellent choice,"mented Xiu, and then felt a hand on her eyes and everything went dark in the world. She rolled her eyes and heard the familiar voice above her head, "Sweets, don''t roll your eyes."

    "Baobei, where did you go?"

    Darren shook his head lightly when he heard that exaggerated tone of his wife and said, "I took my eyes off of you for a couple of minutes and here you are enjoying yourself way too much."

    "I always like looking at beautiful people," said Xiu as she turned around and held Darren''s arm naturally. "But you''re still my favorite."

    "You don''t sound very credible. You should be d that I love you and believe in your nonsense."

    Xiu turned serious, "I, Xiu can talk nonsense about anything but when you''re involved, I only speak the truth and nothing else but the truth." Then she shook his arm and introduced him, "Meet my husband, Regan Darren Salvay."

    Shui Xian shook hands with Darren with familiarity. They might not have much contact but they had seen each other at business conferences over the years. So, they definitely were a little familiar.

    On the other hand, Raelle looked at Darren''s face for a full minute before saying, "I know you."

    "You do?" asked Shui Xian in surprise. He didn''t think Raelle had anything to do with the industry Darren worked in. Automobiles were something she never touched until now. So, he didn''t know how she knew him.

    "Of course, I do," replied Raelle. "R.D. Salvay. I actually thought it was a shame when you announced your retirement and said goodbye to the tracks."

    Darren was slightly surprised when he heard that and then he smiled. His grey eyes set on her as he said, "It''s been a while since someone has reminded me of my days when I was a pro car racer." He looked a little nostalgic, "I didn''t think President Raelle would know about those days."

    "I have been to a couple of your races," told Raelle. "It was against my will but I was definitely part of the crowd. Even on the day when you won yourst championship."

    "Wait! Howe I don''t know this detail?" asked Mu Chenyan in shock. She thought she was the meticulous one. How did she not even know this?

    "It''s not surprising," said Darren casually. "It''s been too long since I left the tracks."

    "Why did you leave?"

    Xiu looked at him worriedly and he held her hand to reassure her as he replied, "I had an ident. So, I couldn''t continue that career even if I wanted to."

    "That''s truly a shame,"mented Mu Chenyan and actually decided to not talk more about this. She already realized she probed the wrong topic. After all, who would like to be reminded of their darkest time period?

    "I''d say, it''s an honor that President Raelle had been a witness of the time I was a racer," said Darren casually as if the topic didn''t hurt him at all. In fact, one could see that he was truly just nostalgic but didn''t look hurt or ufortable talking about it.

    "I am envious of Raelle now," said Xiu. "I was never able to see him on the tracks."

    Darren chuckled helplessly as he held her shoulders and said, "Whose fault is that? You should havee into my life sooner."

    "No, it''s your fault. You should have found me sooner!" retorted Xiu stubbornly.

    Darren looked at her stubborn look and knew he wasn''t gonna win. And he never had a strong desire to win when it came to her so he easily gave in, "Yes, yes. I''m sorry. I should have done my best to find you sooner."

    "Tsk. You''re just coaxing me now. Back then you''re busy being the butterfly that wandered on all kinds of flowers."

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips to hold back herughter when she looked at them.

    Raelle pointed at them and said, "That''s a good husband."

    "I am too," argued Shui Xian. "I also listen to only my wife. And see, I was never a butterfly who wandered around."

    "No, but you seem to do have a lot of bees trying to get your attention," said Raelle making Shui Xian speechless. Why should he suffer because of those bees? Did he like their attention or admiration? No, he didn''t!

    Mu Chenyan couldn''tugh anymore when she realized that she seemed to be stuck between two extremely sweet couples. This sweetness was sticky and too much for her single heart.

 Chapter 1101: Colors Are Beautiful

    Chapter 1101: Colors Are BeautifulFor some reason, her eyes suddenly caught sight of Xia Zhao in the crowd. It was weird, that''s what Mu Chenyan thought when she realized that her eyes actually found that person in this big crowd without a mistake. The moment shemented over her single heart, she found her eyes on Xia Zhao.

    As if feeling her gaze, Xia Zhao turned his head and met her eyes. He even smiled at her making Mu Chenyan annoyed for some reason so she shook her head and looked away.

    "I think I saw Rowan," mentioned Mu Chenyan.

    "Yes. He came with Aunt Feifei," replied Xiu. "He must be here, somewhere."

    "Do you really want to raise your son, free-range?"

    Xiu chuckled, "How is that free-range? I can''t possibly keep him under my eyes all the time, right? He is also a human and he also needs his privacy. He has his own social circle too. Don''t treat kids like they have no idea what''s going on. They are very clear about what they want. Even if sometimes, their ideas get whimsical, that only shows the ability of their mind to imagine." She shrugged carelessly, "My son doesn''t want his parents to be so nosy. He definitely has his own life. And when he feels like he needs his parents, he''d look for us and surely, I''d be always there for him."

    "I just heard from Sister Feifei how your philosophy of raising children is different but now, I understand it a little," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Aunt MuMu, every child is like a flower. Yes, a flower needs a proper environment to grow and proper nurturing too. However, every flower''s growth requirements are different. Not all flowers need the same kind of nutrients and not all children need the same kind of parents."

    "That''s a beautiful thought,"mented Raelle who had been listening to their conversation attentively. She turned to Mu Chenyan and added, "I think Yanyan should understand it better than anyone else. After all, only you know how you raised me."

    Mu Chenyan smiled at that and nodded, "Indeed. I do understand it all."

    "Ms. Bai seems to really know children," said Shui Xian.

    "Why wouldn''t I? Everyone seems to think I''m a free babysitter. Whoever is going on a trip just has to leave their kids at my ce."

    "It means you really are good with kids."

    Darren shook his head saying, "No, it just means that our son is very good at socializing. It has little to do with my wife."

    "Are you saying, I have a problem?" asked Xiu as she raised her brow at her husband who shook his head immediately.

    "No way. You''re great."

    "That''s what I thought."

    Mu Chenyan smiled and said, "Come with me, I wanted to introduce you to Elder Xiang. He heard me speaking about you so much that he was eager to see you."

    "Oh, really? That''s great. I''m always the favorite of the elders," said Xiu proudly as she followed Mu Chenyan.

    "She is full of life," was Shui Xian''s remark as he looked at Xiu''s back. "But her life is in the person beside her. How odd."

    "Odd. Very odd," agreed Raelle. "But have you noticed? All the while she spoke, the smile on her husband''s face didn''t diminish. In fact, his eyes didn''t even leave her face for a second." Then she took a pause and asked, "Why do I think that she just gave me tips on how to raise a child?"

    "Is it a bad thing?" asked Shui Xian cautiously.

    "No. Not really," responded Raelle.

    For a long while, they had no time to chit-chat as more and more people came over to congratte them. They hardly had time to breathe at all.

    Xiang Weimin brought Justin to the two of them. Since Raelle couldn''t get down to his height in her gown, Xiang Weimin thoughtfully picked up Justin in his arms bringing him to the same height as the adults.

    "You look veryfortable there, little man," said Raelle.

    Justin smiled shyly at her and beckoned her closer to whisper his secret, "I don''t have to look up at adults from here."

    "Is it fun?" asked Raelle.

    "Fun," he replied.

    Raelle touched his tiny nose saying, "Then you should drink more milk and eat more veggies to grow taller."

    Justin nodded his head and promised, "I will."

    "That''s like a good boy,"plimented Raelle making Justin grin with his small teeth.

    Then he became a really good boy and asked Xiang Weimin to put him down for a while. Then he straightened up his suit and stood before Raelle and Shui Xian as he said, "I''m here to congratte you on your engagement. I wish you both a lifetime of happiness and health. And I also hope you stay as pretty as you''re today."

    "Wow! What a sweet mouth," said Raelle. "Who taught you that?"

    "I am a smart boy. I learned it myself," he told her proudly.

    Raelle was momentarily lost looking at that vivid expression on his small face. It hadn''t been that long since the first time they met and somehow, she had the illusion that they had met for years. After all, where could she see that shy and silent little Justin now that she saw when she met him for the first time?

    He was cautious at that time but now, he seemed to be blooming.

    It was like he grew up within these months. And he was growing up and opening up beautifully. Especially after he came across Xiang Weimin. She wasn''t narcissistic enough to believe that she brought all the changes in Justin. She understood that many factors yed a role and a big role was yed by Xiang Weimin unknowingly.

    Especially since what Justincked the most in his life was a father figure like Xiang Weimin.

    She was actually very happy to see this change. Since the time she noticed the simrities between herself and Justin, she didn''t want Justin to have the same monotonous childhood as she did. Not because she hated it but because she realized way too long that colors were also very beautiful.

 Chapter 1102: [Bonus chapter] Good Captain

    Chapter 1102: [Bonus chapter] Good Captain"Then did you bring me a gift, little munchkin?" asked Raelle.

    "I did," answered Justin. "I spent quite some time contemting what to bring you and what would be suitable. Momma said you have everything. And I also realized that you don''tck anything. So, the gift should be something I cherish and not something expensive. That''s why I brought my favorite pot of peonies for you. I think they suit you the best."

    "Really? Why?"

    "Because peonies represent beauty and elegance," he answered in his cute voice. "Don''t forget to take care of them nt. As long as you give it love and care, it''ll continue to bloom beautiful flowers."

    "That''s such a thoughtful gift," said Raelle. "You little munchkin has big ideas now."

    "Because I''m a big boy now," he replied. "Also, Uncle Min said that you don''t like troublesome things so it''ll be difficult for you to take care of the peonies. But then I thought, you said you have the best husband. Can''t he take care of the peonies?"

    Raelle also looked at her ''best'' husband and asked, "So, Hubby, can''t you take care of the peonies for me?"

    Shui Xian looked at her and then looked at Justin. Seeing how both of their eyes seemed to be blinking at him innocently and expectantly, he found himself defeated as he said, "Of course, I can. I''ll make sure to take care of the peonies."

    Justin smiled sweetly at him, "Thank you!"

    Shui Xian looked away as he suddenly felt like he saw a glimpse of his own future just about a moment ago. He is defeated before Raelle''s innocent eyes. What would happen when they really have a child of their own and if that child inherited Raelle''s eyes and looked at him with such innocence, would he even be able to establish his prestige as the father?

    Wow! The future was already looking quite... interesting.

    "What''s with your face, Lieutenant?" asked Raelle to Xiang Weimin.

    Xiang Weimin looked quite off. He looked around before saying, "I don''t know what''s going on but I feel like everyone in the family is giving me a weird look."

    "Weird look?" repeated Raelle.

    Xiang Weimin nodded his head, "Especially Mom and Dad." He just recalled the look his parents gave him tonight and his face cracked. "They really gave me the ''LOOK''."

    "Huh? What look?" asked Raelle quite oblivious to this ''look'' he spoke of.

    Xiang Weimin was about to answer when he looked at Justin who was listening to them and immediately covered his ears with his big hands and only then did he tell her, "The look which seems to be saying that ''You wait for me to whoop your asster.'' You know that look."

    "I actually don''t know that look," she told him. "I have never had to face it."

    Xiang Weimin sighed, "Right. Who would dare give you the look."

    "But, Lieutenant, since you know this look does that mean you have experienced it before?"

    Xiang Weimin coughed unnaturally, "Well, I did. I was young at that time."

    "So, did you get the whooping?" asked Raelle actually looking quite interested in this topic.

    Xiang Weimin sniffled, "Yeah. But it wasn''t Mom and Dad who did it. It was our grandma who whooped my ass for running around with Aunt Chenyan."

    "What beautiful and painful memories of childhood,"mented Shui Xian with a look of nostalgia.

    "Husband, do you have experience too?"

    Shui Xian touched his nose as he said, "You think my mom was a soft persimmon? It''s not just because she loved me so she won''t beat me. It was actually the reverse. The more she loved me, the more she beat me." Then he looked at Xiang Weimin with sympathy, "Weimin Ge, I wish you luck forter then. Hope you are able to take the whooping."

    Xiang Weimin waved his hand carelessly, "I ain''t scared of them. The only person in our Xiang family who really could whoop me was my grandma and sadly, she is no more. As for Mom and Dad? These two never had it in them to actually do anything to me. Not because I''m their eldest son or they love me too much. They just are too civilized."

    "You haven''t figured it out yet?" asked Raelle.

    "What?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    Raelle looked at Justin who was holding Xiang Weimin''s little finger tightly as he looked at them curiously. Perhaps, he was trying to figure out what these adults are talking about with his small but smart head.

    "And I thought you said Wai is the slow one in this family. It seems she is slow but isn''t blind."

    "Should I take that as an insult?"

    "Up to you, Lieutenant," replied Raelle. "Forget it. You''ll know the mystery eventually. For now, why don''t you take this little bean to try some desserts?" She looked at Justin as she asked, "Do you wanna try some desserts, Justin? I asked my Yanyan to specially arrange a wide range of desserts so that you can have fun."

    Justin looked up at Xiang Weimin who smiled lovingly at him, "Okay. Let''s go and try some desserts."

    When he got down the stage with Justin, he met his sister Xiang Wai who gave him a smirk which made him frown and that weird feeling came back. He really felt like his sister was gloating but he couldn''t understand why? Then he thought about back to what Raelle said and felt like he was close to truth but he wasn''t able to touch that truth.

    Xiang Waiughed unkindly as she said, "I never thought my Ge would have this day. What a surprise!"

    "You seem to be enjoying it way too much," said Zhai Yanjun. "You shouldn''t be so unkind. Let''s not forget how much Weimin Ge loves you."

    "What does that have to do with this matter?" she retorted. "I can stillugh at him when the situation allows it. I have tough when I can. Heughed at my expense too."

    "No. He always offered his support to you," reminded Zhai Yanjun.

    "You''re my boyfriend or his?"

    "Yours," answered Zhai Yanjun seriously.

    "Then take my side."

    "Okay, Major!"

    She patted his head saying, "That''s like a good Captain!"

 Chapter 1103: The Devil You Know

    Chapter 1103: The Devil You KnowZhai Yanjun suddenly held Xiang Wai''s hand and looked into her eyes with love overflowing from his eyes. "Wai, should we also get married?"

    Xiang Wai coughed when she heard that as she was caught off-guard and then her eyes narrowed as she asked, "What do you mean? You don''t think it''s that easy to marry me right? How long has it been since we are even dating and you''re already thinking about marriage?"

    "We have a whole life ahead of us to date for as long as you want," said Zhai Yanjun seriously.

    "That won''t do. How is that fun? Marriage is a grave of love," was Xiang Wai''s answer. "Let me experience love first."

    Zhai Yanjun looked at her helplessly and pointed at Raelle and Shui Xian, "Does that look like a grave of love to you?"

    Xiang Wai pursed her lips and didn''t respond.

    "I see them still nning their dates and doing everything like they are dating for the first time. But once you meet them at home, they look like an old couple who had been married for decades. I personally think it''s not a bad idea to marry early."

    In fact, between the two of them, the one who really wanted to get married had always been Xiang Wai and not Zhai Yanjun. He just recently realized that there were different kinds of married couples in the world and not everyone was like his own parents.

    He slowly coaxed her, "Just think about it, we can daily role-y as if we are not married and go to a new and exciting ce for a date."

    "As if we have that much free time once I get back to work," Xiang Wai sounded bitter and once again felt that the decision she made for her future seemed to be the right one.

    "But we can still find time for each other," said Zhai Yanjun.

    Xiang Wai raised her hand to stop him, "Before I say anything, don''t you think this is the worst way to ask me this question? How can you even propose to me this ndly again?"

    Zhai Yanjun raised his hands in defense, "I''m sorry. I''m sorry. I lost track of my thoughts because of the atmosphere. Don''t take it seriously. How can I wrong you again? Don''t worry. Don''t worry at all. I''ll propose you properly." He took a pause and added, "And getting engaged first is also fine with me. We can take the steps to marriage slowly."

    "Why do I think you''re more eager than usual?" she asked.

    Zhai Yanjun looked around at the men who had their eyes on his girlfriend and cursed mentally. How could he not be in a hurry? Did he want to lose her again before he could be in a hurry? In the military, Xiang Wai''s charm didn''t work since those straight steel men actually treated her like a brother since Xiang Wai had a heroic image.

    But today, she not only wore a gorgeous gown, she also danced with him. And he always knew that she looked the most beautiful when she danced. It was like her wings woulde out of hiding once she put on her dancing shoes and then she could fly like a fairy. She''d be soft and gentle instantly. Only a blind person won''t notice her when she was so dazzling.

    So, he had to be in a hurry to tie her with himself before any unexpected situation or person came up to ruin it all for him.

    Xiang Wai ced her hand on his chest as she looked into his eyes teasingly and he smiled helplessly, "How can I not be eager? I don''t wanna lose you again."

    "Tsk," Xiang Wai tsked at him and smiled cheekily, "You have gotten good with words."

    "I have to or else, there''d be only silence between us. And let''s ept it, we are both fools who can''t read silence."

    Xiang Wai chuckled at that and nodded her head, "I agree. But if you want me, work harder, Captain! I won''t be that easy to get anymore. After all..." She looked around saying, "I have a lot of options now."

    Zhai Yanjun knew she was doing it purposely but it still worked as he held her chin and made her look at him, "Isn''t this option still the best? Rather than choosing a product that seems good, you should choose the one you''re familiar with. You know, as they say, better the devil you know than the devil you don''t know."

    Xiang Wai bit her lip to stop herself fromughing out loud and said, "Is that so? But I think once in a while, we should step out of ourfort zone and try to get familiar with the unknown devil. Who knows it might be destiny."

    Zhai Yanjun pinched her waist making her jump and p his arm in dissatisfaction.

    "This is why I should look for a new devil."

    He hugged her waist and pulled her closer saying, "What a shame! You''re stuck here with me. Even the second time around."

    "It''s not toote."

    "It is veryte," was what he said and kissed her lips to stop her from saying any more nonsense that he didn''t want to hear at all.

    Xiang Wai pretended to struggle but then gave up with a smile on her lips as she wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him even closer to deepen the kiss. How could she be willing to take any chances? It took her years to get this block of wood.

    No matter how good the devils out there were, they couldn''t be any better than the one she fell in love with for a long time. So, she had to hold this one tighter. Just as Hyson advised her before that she had to make this one dance on her fingers to feel better for all the suffering he brought to her.

    Of course, she couldn''t bring herself to make him dance on her fingers but that didn''t stop her from asionally messing around with him. Since she just realized how fun it was.

 Chapter 1104: Your Future Step-Mom

    Chapter 1104: Your Future Step-Mom"Tut! Tut! Tut! People have lost morals these days and don''t care about the innocent eyes of the kids," came a very dissatisfied voice that made Xiang Wai and Zhai Yanjun pause. "Kids, close your eyes. Is this something you should be seeing?"

    Both of them turned their heads and looked at Hyson who was giving them a disgusting look and even had a hand over his eyes while he instructed the kids around him to close their eyes.

    Only then did they notice that Hyson had a group of young people following him around? Wow! What a surprise!

    And these kids seemed very obedient as they really closed their eyes making Hyson satisfied.

    "Little brother, are you babysitting?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    Hyson gave him a re, "How is that possible? Who can even ask me to babysit?"

    "Right," agreed Zhai Yanjun as he nodded his head. "You''re also a baby who needs babysitting. How can anyone ask you to babysit?"

    Hyson made a face at him and narrowed his eyes at this brother of his, "Jun Ge, are you looking for a fight?"

    "Absolutely not!" replied Zhai Yanjun as he solemnly shook his head.

    Hyson waved his hand and crossed his arms as he said, "I''m gonna say it nicely now since you''re my brother. But if you want to do this kissing, go and get a room. Don''t burn my eyes with this scene. Do you realize how you''re affecting the innocent brains of our country''s future generation by doing this?"

    Xiang Wai raised her hand to stop him from continuing, "Don''t say a word more. We both can''t win by talking against you. So, let''s not waste time here."

    "It''s good that you''re self-aware of your own abilities."

    "More than that, I''m aware of how much nonsense you''re capable of," retorted Xiang Wai.

    "Major, you really know how to burn the bridges after crossing them, huh? How much I helped you and this is how you''re treating me?" Hyson looked so disappointed as he turned to the kids beside him as said, "You see this person. That''s the one people call white-eyed wolf."

    Xiang Wai gaped at him meanwhile, little Xena raised her hand and asked, "But isn''t this auntie a human? She doesn''t have fur like a wolf. I have seen a wolf and he had blue eyes. Very pretty. Right, brother?"

    Sammy sighed mentally at his sister and smiled at her lovingly, "Yes, yes. But the white-eyed wolf doesn''t mean a real wolf, sister."

    "No?"

    "No," replied Sammy and then told her what a white-eyed wolf was in a low voice.

    On the other hand, Rowan patted Hyson''s back saying, "Don''t be so discouraged. We live in a society where people usually like to move forward and don''t wanna look back at their past. Some find it painful, some find it shameful. But eventually, they all just don''t wanna face that past and want to run from it so they burn the bridges they used to reach where they are."

    Hyson suddenly chuckled and touched his head, "You, Rowan, are very interesting. But I was just teasing her."

    "Oh," responded Rowan.

    "I never knew you''re so good with kids," said Xiang Wai.

    "I didn''t know either," replied Hyson. Then he shrugged nonchntly as he felt like he was really enjoying himself ying with these kids rather than talking with adults. And these kids also yed an important role in blocking the unnecessary people froming up to him to ask for a dance.

    Seeing how these two were looking at him, Hyson felt weird.

    "Don''t think I''ll babysit your kids in the future," he said out of nowhere making Xiang Wai and Zhai Yanjunugh out loud.

    "Why not?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "I''m expensive, you can''t afford me," he replied haughtily. Did he look like a babysitter now? Even if he had to babysit in the future as an Uncle, he won''t do it easily.

    What? What was he even thinking?! This was a dangerous thought. He was starting to actually take the role of an Uncle already? No way! He was way too young for this. He had to calm down now.

    You can''t make the wrong decision, Hyson!

    "Fai, as an Uncle, you should be selfless," said Zhai Yanjun.

    "Huh!" was Hyson''s response. "I''m very selfish. And if you don''t want your kids to be as selfish as me, you better keep them away from me." Then he shook his head and added, "And what are you both even dreaming? First, get married! Talking about kids as if you''re gonna have one tomorrow!"

    "Aren''t we just being thoughtful by preparing you for the future early?" said Xiang Wai.

    "Keep your thoughtfulness to yourself," said Hyson. "It ain''t gonna work on me."

    "Your future nephew or niece would be so sad to hear that."

    "What did you say? I can''t hear you. What was it exactly?"

    Both Xiang Wai and Zhai Yanjun shook their heads at him. They didn''t think they''d be able to annoy him so easily today. It seems he was really against being the babysitter but in the future, it definitely won''t be up to him so they didn''t push him too far.

    "Won''t you introduce your new friends to us?"

    Hyson gave them a look and felt like they were nning something evil against him but he was a brave boy, he''d take whatever they throw at him when the time came for it. For now, he honestly introduced the little ones around him to the two of them.

    "This one is Rowan, he is your future step-mom''s grandnephew, Major!"

    Xiang Wai''s lips twitched when she heard it and Hyson smiled happily to see that then he turned to the other two.

    "And these are Sammy and Xena. They are Cloe''s future niece and nephew." He touched Xena''s head saying, "You see her? Isn''t she cute? She is my big fan. Don''t be jealous. You won''t get this love. It''s meant for me."

    Xiang Wai rolled her eyes at this boy whose brain really didn''t work like a normal person but he was definitely amusing.

 Chapter 1105: Fool The Kids

    Chapter 1105: Fool The KidsOne thing was for sure, Hyson knew how to gather love from old and young. Age definitely didn''t matter to him since he could make anyone his fan. And he was certainly very proud about that too.

    Since Rowan was the oldest of the little ones around Hyson, he was like a big brother and he seemed pretty used to it too. He took Sammy and Xena with him like a good big brother who was not only protecting the young ones but also making sure they were having enough fun. Hyson actually found it amusing since the age difference between these kids wasn''t all that big.

    Hyson was all too happy to see that the friendship between the young ones was built so soon. No matter how much he felt that Rowan was a sensible kid, he was still a kid and he definitely deserved to have his own social circle with kids of his age group.

    "Major, you should have tried to build a friendship with Rowan. You know, he is your future step-mom''s favorite grandnephew."

    "Stop it, Fai," said Xiang Wai.

    "Why? You don''t want to be close to your stepmom?"

    "I''m not even close to my own biological mother," reminded Xiang Wai.

    Hyson narrowed his eyes at her, "So, you don''t like the fact that your father might marry another woman?"

    "What nonsense?!" Xiang Wai snorted. "There is no such thing. I don''t think I have a right to interfere in my dad''s life," said Xiang Wai. "Those kids who feel that they are entitled to control their parents'' life are sick. They don''t want their parents to interfere in their lives but they want to control their parents'' lives. What kind of logic is that?"

    "Major, you''re not that hopeless, huh."

    Xiang Wai rolled her eyes at him, "I was never hopeless. You just have a prejudice against me."

    "Now, that''s not true," said Hyson. "You can''t attack me like that." He put his arm around her shoulder like a good old buddy and added, "In fact, I think you and I can have amon ground in the future. Because I totally agree with your point of view. We should give our parents the freedom that we so want in our own lives." Then he looked at Zhai Yanjun as he asked, "What do you think, brother?"

    Zhai Yanjun nodded in agreement, "I agree." He was silent for a while before speaking again, "I saw you talking to Dad earlier. Everything good?"

    "What are you worried about, brother? Are you worried about me or your dad?"

    "About my dad," answered Zhai Yanjun honestly. He didn''t think he had anything to worry about regarding Hyson. It''s the people around Hyson who deserves his concern and in this case, that person was his own father so he couldn''t help asking.

    "Exactly what do you take me for?" asked Hyson. "Do I look like a savage? Do I bite people? Do you think I peeled off flesh from your father''s body? It was just a short conversation. How can you be so worried?"

    "Anybody would be worried," said Zhai Yanjun. "Your reputation precedes you, my dear little brother."

    "You''re making me sound worse and worse. Be careful. What if you gave people the wrong idea about me? How can I pretend to be an angel if you kept making me sound like a devil?"

    "Everyone already knows what kind of an angel you are. You can only fool kids with your skills,"mented Xiang Wai. She really couldn''t help going against him as if her day won''t beplete without bickering with him.

    "Thanks for thepliment, Major Wai!" replied Hyson with a sweet smile as if her words didn''t affect him at all. After that, he said, "You should be d that today, I''m in a very good mood. So, I''m very easy to talk to today. My damage rate today is lowered by at least 50 percent. That''s why, Captain, your dad survived."

    Zhai Yanjun actually heaved a sigh of relief. Even though he loved this little brother, he also knew what kind of a poisonous tongue this little brother of his had. He was actually worried that his father won''t be able to take it and might get hurt by Hyson''s words. And considering Zhai Kuijun''s heart disease, his nerves had been taut.

    But no matter how restless he was, he didn''t try to interfere between Zhai Kuijun and Hyson. On one side was his own father and on the other side was his brother. He didn''t want to push or pull anyone of them. Both were very important to him. So, he decided to stand on sidelines to see where this would go. And from the look of it, it seemed it didn''t go all that bad.

    "So, you''re very happy today?" asked Xiang Wai. "Who should we thank for this change?"

    "Of course, it''s because it''s my best friend''s engagement today. This is a very important day for me. Why would I not be happy? I''m more than just happy so I''m very easy to talk to today."

    "Then should I say dad got lucky?" Zhai Yanjun smiled at the thought.

    "You can say that."

    "So, Fai, what about you? Did you allow Uncle Kui to be with your mum?" asked Xiang Wai curiously.

    "Who am I to stop him?" retorted Hyson.

    "You''re taking yourself too lightly," said Zhai Yanjun. "I told you, dad won''t do anything if you don''t agree. He had been trying to keep his distance from Ayi during this time all because he was waiting for you. If you didn''t say anything, I don''t think he''d even confront Ayi for why she didn''t tell him about you."

    Hyson shook his head at him, "Brother, you have a big misunderstanding about your father. Do you think he is that obedient? I don''t think so. He is very stubborn."

    Zhai Yanjun raised his brow at Hyson wondering why he said that. It didn''t seem right to him.

 Chapter 1106: [Bonus chapter] Red Hair Couple

    Chapter 1106: [Bonus chapter] Red Hair Couple"Stubborn?" repeated Zhai Yanjun. "How did youe to that conclusion?"

    Hyson gave him a dissatisfied look, "Think about it yourself. When he married your mother, didn''t his parents stop him?"

    "They did," answered Zhai Yanjun honestly since he heard more than once from people that his grandma was not satisfied with Zhai Kuijun''s rtionship with Yue Lan. In fact, there were a lot of conjectures out there. Some rumors even said that the reason why Zhai Kuijun wasn''t able to have a stable rtionship with Yue Lan was because of his own mother who never epted Yue Lan.

    When he was young, he didn''t understand it butter he realized that those people were certainly trying to make him dissatisfied with his own grandparents by talking about such things before him. Fortunately, he wasn''t a fool.

    He could see that even though his grandma didn''t like his mother, she hardly ever interfered with the rtionship between his parents. The only time, his grandparents really had a big fight with his parents was when they found out about how he almost died because of Yue Lan''s carelessness and they took him away from his parents.

    Apart from that, he never even saw his grandma talking badly about his mother to his father.

    Hyson''s voice brought him back to reality.

    "But did he listen?" Hyson was asking. "No, he didn''t. He still stubbornly married your mother. Later, you asked him to separate from your mother, did he agree?"

    "No," answered Zhai Yanjun in a small voice.

    "Exactly, he didn''t," added Hyson. "Not only that but when everyone said my mum was thrown out of the Yue family for something unforgivable, he still stubbornly didn''t believe it. When people told him to stop looking for my mum because she could possibly not be alive anymore, he was yet again stubborn about finding her." He took a deep breath and asked, "Now, tell me, isn''t he stubborn?"

    Xiang Wai gave him a slow p in appreciation, "You''re good. You learned about Uncle Kui so soon."

    "Thank you! Thank you! It''s just that I see things more clearly. It''s nothing but that the more people tell him to not do something, the more he''d do it on purpose with a rebellious mentality. You understand, brother?"

    Zhai Yanjun sighed, "Yes, I understand very well that Dad is just like you."

    Hyson lost his smile when he heard and asked, "Like me? How is that possible? I''m very intelligent."

    He didn''t want to continue this topic since he realized he won''t be able to have much of an argument. He also figured out the simrities between himself and Zhai Kuijun. But he was also stubborn enough to not ept.

    "So, little brother, how was our dance?" asked Zhai Yanjun trying to change the topic since he saw Hyson''s mood clearly.

    "It was so-so," said Hyson. "At least, you didn''t insult my good name on that dance floor. Thanks for that. Or else, I''d inly refuse to ept that you''re my brother. How would I even live if people knew that my brother couldn''t even dance? What a shame!"

    "Tsk. Dramatic!"

    "I was telling that to my brother. Why are you getting so worked up, Major?"

    "Because that''s my boyfriend," she shot back.

    "Oh, what a good rtionship you have."

    Ignoring his sarcasm, Xiang Wai happily said, "Thank you for thepliment."

    Hyson made a face at her and looked away and so did, Xiang Wai. Zhai Yanjun was left looking at the two of them with a helpless look. Where was he supposed to go? It was truly a task to stand between the two of them.

    "Huh? What''s that sleepyhead doing with her?"

    Hyson got curious about who she was talking about and followed her eyes. When he saw Huang Shuyi and found that he was truly standing with a woman, his gossipy eyes lit up immediately. So, he wasn''t seeing wrong earlier, eh!

    But since the woman''s back was toward him, Hyson couldn''t tell for a moment who it was. So, he asked Xiang Wai, "Who is she?"

    "Are you blind? That''s Gou Jinjin from Aunt Chenyan''s maternal cousin''s family," she answered.

    "Oh, the one from the hospital?"

    "Yeah."

    "What''s going on between them?"

    Xiang Wai pushed his head away, "How would I know? Let me see!" Seeing how Huang Shuyi was holding Gou Jinjin''s hand, she tsked, "And here I thought he''d be a monk one day."

    Hyson chuckled, "How is that possible? Shuyi Ge can never be a monk. No matter how devoted he is, he can never give up his sleep. So, being a monk is not for him."

    Xiang Wai alsoughed, "I almost forgot. You''re right. He can never be a monk with his love for sleep. But now, he is willing to share his love for sleep with a woman. How odd?"

    "Why do you sound so weird?" asked Hyson and then shook his head. "Whatever! I''m more curious about how they even met. One is a homebody and the other stays in the hospital. How did they get together?"

    Zhai Yanjun listened to them gossiping with so much interest and his face twitched. It was not that these two only knew how to bicker. They were really good at gossiping too once they foundmon interests. He rubbed his forehead and didn''t know what to do. In fact, he couldn''t find a ce to get between them so he could only stand aside and listen to their conspiracy theories.

    Usually, he felt a bit jealous of Huang Shuyi but today, he felt a little sympathy for him.

    But that didn''t stop him from telling these two, "I think they met at the Xiang Manor."

    "Huh?"

    "When Raelle was discharged from the hospital. Both of them came over back then," he reminded them.

    "That''s right," said Xiang Wai. "I almost forgot because she changed her red hair into raven color." Sheughed to herself, "They are really a good match. Both had red hairs at the same point."

    "Tsk. What a shame that they changed their hair color or I''d call them red hair color,"mented Hyson.

    Xiang Waiughed along with him while Zhai Yanjun rolled his eyes at these two kids.

 Chapter 1107 Expect The Unexpected

    1107 Expect The Unexpected

    Things we really want to avoid tend to find us eventually. Even though Song Xin''ai was clear about this, she still didn''t expect to run into Elder Xiang so soon. If possible, she didn''t want to face him.

    For a moment, she couldn''t decide whether to run or stay.

    "It''s so good to see you here, Professor Song," said Grandfather Xiang. And he wasn''t being sarcastic at all. She couldn''t tell what mood he was in to see her here because all she saw was kindness on his face.

    That''s odd.

    Once upon a time, he was so majestic and intimidating that she dared not even look into his eyes. But now, he looked like a kind old man? What a surprise.

    But thinking about what he had gone through in his life, it wasn''t all that surprising too. He had gone through so many phases of life. Losing all his family when he was young, losing his ability to walk, and being unable to defend his country, he even had to lose his own wife.

    He went through all of that and still didn''t fall.

    Since he could still maintain that gentleness and kindness, it showed how great of a person he was. Perhaps, that''s why she found it so difficult toe in front of him again.

    "Elder Xiang," she called out with a forced smile that looked very ugly.

    Grandfather Xiang was a little surprised. He thought whether he was so used to understanding Raelle that now, it seemed he was able to see through Song Xin''ai''s emotions too or was she that easy to see through after all these years.

    But he had to say, facing her after so long, he was actually very calm. And the credit he had to give Raelle. For no other reason but that once he figured out how Raelle was simr to Song Xin''ai, it became very easy for him to understand this ex-daughter-inw of his.

    He used to think she was a person very difficult to understand but it didn''t seem to be true.

    "I heard you came and I waited that you''de to greet me but I waited and waited and waited some more yet I didn''t see youing. So, here I am to see you myself," said Grandfather Xiang in a joking manner.

    Song Xin''ai lowered her head feeling a bit ashamed, "I''m sorry for that. I thought you wouldn''t wanna see me and be reminded of all the bad things on this happy day."

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head at her. See? She was so quick in apologizing once she knew she was at fault. It was just like his darling Raelle.

    "You sure it''s not because you didn''t want to see me?"

    Song Xin''ai looked up at him, "How is that possible? Elder Xiang, trust me, that''s not the case."

    Grandfather Xiang smiled at her, "Xin''ai, howe you''re still so cautious in life?"

    Song Xin''ai pursed her lips, "Some traits are shaped when we are young. It''s almost impossible to change after that."

    Grandfather Xiang nodded his head at her and sighed, "I''m really d that you came. Thank you foring today!"

    "Raelle invited me," she told him still in disbelief. "I didn''t think she will invite me on her big day. I''m really happy she did."

    "You should expect the unexpected from our Yenay," said Grandfather Xiang. "At times, she reminded me of you a lot."

    Song Xin''ai shook her head, "She is not me, Elder Xiang. She is better than me. And I''m very d about that too. The way you nurtured her is remarkable. I can''t be more thankful that she had an elder like you beside her to protect her uniqueness."

    Grandfather Xiang noticed the tears brimming in her eyes but those tears didn''t fall. They just made her eyes look watery and a little more lonely.

    "You''re right. Chenyan did her best to protect Raelle''s entricity."

    Song Xin''ai smiled in relief. She knew they must have done their best. That''s why she told Raelle that the biggest difference between them was that one was shaped with love and one with indifference. There had to be some difference between them.

    No one was there to protect or support her uniqueness but Raelle was different from her. She had the support and love of these people who weren''t willing to change her or shape her into something that would fit into the definition of ''normal'' around here.

    "You don''t have to be so scared of me," said Grandfather Xiang. "Honestly speaking, I don''t hate you or me you for anything."

    "Really?" she asked uncertainly. She couldn''t actually believe it. She thought she was the real culprit for a lot of tragedies that happened to the Xiang family over two decades ago. So, how could he calmly say that he didn''t hate her or me her?

    "Really," assured Grandfather Xiang. "Do you think I have time for ying the hate or me game? If I continued to hate this or that person, wouldn''t I be shortening my own life? And believe me, I still want to live for a little while longer. I haven''t seen my great-grandkids yet. I have to see them before going to meet my old wife in the underworld. Otherwise, she definitely won''t talk to me for being a disappointment who left too soon."

    Song Xin''ai wiped the tear from the corner of her eye as she smiled at his words. She could actually vividly see Old Madam Xiang looking at Elder Xiang with disappointment. Even if public disy of affection wasn''t a thing back then, this old couple could still make anyone feel like a light bulb standing between them.

    From his words, she could tell that he really missed his wife but he still didn''t me her. Because of the family, she grew up in, she was actually unable to ever understand the people in the Xiang family. But one thing was for sure, this family really provided her with the warmth that shecked in her life.

 Chapter 1108 [Bonus chapter] Not Good Enough

    1108 [Bonus chapter] Not Good Enough

    "You should stop living in the past," said Grandfather Xiang. "That''s what my Raelle told me. She made me realize a lot of things in life and one of the reasons why I don''t hate you is her. After all, you gave birth to her. How will I get such an amazing granddaughter? So, shouldn''t I be thanking you instead?"

    Song Xin''ai was a little taken aback when she heard him say that.

    "At the end of the day, you''re the mother of my grandchildren. Not only Raelle, but you also gave us Weimin and Wai too. How can I me you? Whatever happened back then was unexpected and took us all by surprise. We all made decisions in the fit of emotions. Some of us made the right decision, others not so very much. I won''tment on whether you made the right decision or not, after all, only you''d know that. But I''m actually happy where I am in my life now," Grandfather Xiang had a rxed look on his face. "Yes, my wife left way too soon but it''s okay. I''m very proud of her. Every single person in my family is born a soldier. And we were always ready to give this life for this country too. I never expected that the one who would end up giving her life for the country would be my own wife who wasn''t a soldier and who was really afraid of pain. She was a squeamish littledy from a capitalist family and yet, she was brave enough to give her life. So, I can''t be prouder of her."

    "I never thought you''d say that," said Song Xin''ai. "I have always respected you a lot and today I can say that I didn''t respect the wrong person. You deserve what you have Elder Xiang. You really deserve it all."

    "You deserve better too, Xin''ai," he said as he called her name with familiarity. "Don''t be so hard on yourself. You should stop living in guilt. After meeting Raelle, I''m sure you learned that she doesn''t me you either. She is a lot more sober than all of usbined. So, she''d never force you to take responsibility for anything. She is a little slow when ites to emotions but her mind is very clear about what she wants."

    "That''s why I''m here, Elder Xiang," replied Song Xin''ai. "I hesitated a lot beforeing today. I was wondering if I should reallye or not but in the end, I decided toe just because Raelle made the effort to deliver that invitation card to me personally. It meant a lot to me. So, I decided toe. I definitely want to face everything that I had been running from."

    "That''s good to know," said Grandfather Xiang. "Don''t think so much with your overactive mind. Those three are still your kids and you can meet them whenever you want."

    *Ring!*

    Song Xin''ai apologized to him and took out her phone from her purse. When she looked at the caller id, her expression was distorted. Grandfather Xiang didn''t even have to see to know why she had "Answer what I asked," came the response. "Who are you to question your mother instead? You 09:23

    unfilial daughter! See how I straighten you once youe home. Now, stop trying to distract me this change. How sad that some things really don''t change!

    "Befortable and talk to more people today," said Grandfather Xiang. "Don''t stay in the corner. It''s rare for you toe out of theb. So interact with humans. They can be very interesting too."

    Song Xin''ai forgot about the phone in her hand and looked up at him with a smile, "I will."

    "Good," said Grandfather Xiang before he leisurely operated his wheelchair to step aside to give her enough space to take the phone call.

    Song Xin''ai could see his intentions clearly and gave a wry smile before she picked up the phone call. An aged but energetic voice came from the other side, "Xin''ai, where are you?"

    "Why are you asking, mother?"

    "Answer what I asked," came the response. "Who are you to question your mother instead? You unfilial daughter! See how I straighten you once youe home. Now, stop trying to distract me and tell me where you are. I heard you took a leave from theb."

    "You''re keeping tabs on what I do and where I am?" asked Song Xin''ai. "Can''t I take a leave for a day? I could be sick too."

    "What do you mean you could be sick? Didn''t you just recover? Why are you getting sick every other day. How can you be so useless? Do you know that your daughter''s engagement is today? Why didn''t you tell me about it?"

    "I didn''t raise that daughter. How would I know her affairs? Besides, even if I did know, why would I tell you about it?"

    "How can you not tell me? I''m your old mother! Are you going against me now? Be careful or I''ll go andin to your leaders about what an unfilial scorge you are!"

    "It''s not like you haven''t done it before," replied Song Xin''ai. "Can you get to the point? Why are you calling? I''m sure it''s not just to yell at me for being unfilial. We have already established it long ago that I''m just not good enough in the Song family. Haven''t we?"

    She was so used to her mother''s behavior or way of talking that she didn''t react at all. She might used to feel embarrassed once upon a time but that was long gone. She had gone through enough embarrassment to be thick skinned.

    When she received the invitation from Raelle unexpectedly, not even for a second it came to her mind that she should let her maternal family knew. Why would she tell those blood suckers? Didn''t she know what they were capable of or what their weight was?

    How can she add this trouble to Raelle''s life? Wasn''t it enough that her Weimin and Wai had to suffer along with her from this maternal family of hers? It was better to keep Raelle away from all this. She was better off without such rtives.

    Have you ever felt like you''re living in a daze? That''s how I''ve been feeling these days. Don''t know where life is taking me or where it''ll take me eventually. I don''t even know how to feel about this.

    XiaoMeeHee

 Chapter 1109 At A Good Place

    1109 At A Good ce

    Old Madam Song was a little taken aback when she heard that tone from her own daughter who rarely talked back to her. In fact, Song Xin''ai had a very small presence in the Song family since she was young. She didn''t like pleasing others, she didn''t like talking, and she didn''t know how to coax. No matter what, she just wasn''t the kind of child parents would notice because she never tried to get attention.

    So what if she was always at the top of the ss? Once or twice, it might have made a difference but eventually, everyone in the Song family got used to her exceptional intelligence.

    She slowly got her parents'' attention when she was in more and more internationalpetitions. Because of that, even her father was praised by his colleagues and seniors which made him look at this daughter who was almost invisible in the family.

    But Old Madam Song didn''t care about such things. She only started noticing Song Xin''ai when she felt like Song Xin''ai was rebelling against her authority. The daughter who never even had her own opinions, actually started talking back once she started dating Xiang Hulin. She actually let her be because she thought once Song Xin''ai married into the Xiang family, she''d be able to help her natal family.

    However, Song Xin''ai did no such thing and became more and more distant from her natal family which was uneptable to Old Madam Song.

    Sadly, she couldn''t do anything since at that time, Old Madam Xiang was alive and someone like Old Madam Song was no match for Old Madam Xiang. That''s why during the time Song Xin''ai had been married Xiang Hulin, the Song family had been restrained.

    As for why Old Madam Song was suddenly reminded of these old times was that, it had been years since Song Xin''ai had spoken such sarcastic words to her. Actually, she knew she had been dragging Song Xin''ai for years but she got used to it. If it wasn''t that leaders valued Song Xin''ai very much for her talent, what Old Madam Song had done over the years to discredit her would have ruined her career.

    "I''m your mother, Xin''ai," Old Madam Song suddenly changed her tune and decided to y a soft game. "How can I not feel wrong for you, my daughter?"

    Song Xin''ai almost rolled her eyes when she heard that. She wasn''t a little kid who needed her parents'' love or validation anymore. Her own children were old enough to be married. In fact, she just learned that she was already a grandmother. So, she didn''t believe a word her mother said to her.

    She was actually curious how her own mother was still so energetic and nose at her age while she always felt tired these days. She really couldn''t understand it. Okay, she agreed that people used to get married early back in her parents'' era but still, her mother was well over seventy and was still trying to rule over her head.

    "Your daughter is getting married and no one even told you about that," Old Madam Song was saying. "Think about it. What will the people say?"

    Song Xin''ai sneered, "So, what you care about is what will people say and not what I''ll feel, right?"

    "No, no. How can you think like that about your own mother?"

    "Mother, you''re just mad that the Xiang family didn''t call you to this engagement that had been the talk of the town. You''re afraid of how you''ll face the people now since you weren''t even invited to the engagement of your granddaughter. But mother, are you forgetting? No one knows that Raelle is my daughter or your granddaughter. No one will say anything to you if you don''t tell them that Raelle is my daughter. Wouldn''t that solve anything?"

    Old Madam Song was fuming but still controlled her temper to say, "Why are you so disappointing? I''m doing it for you. Don''t you want me to question the Xiang family? After all, you gave birth to three children for that family. How can they forget you on such an asion?"

    "Am I recalling it wrong? I just heard thatst week my brother''s daughter also got engaged. I wasn''t invited there either. So, Mother, if you can forget me so easily, how can I me the rest of the world, eh?"

    Old Madam Song''s words were stuck in her throat and she couldn''t speak.

    She took a deep breath and said, "You have learned to talk."

    "I always knew how to talk," replied Song Xin''ai. "I just respected you. But let me warn you once again, my children are off-limits. I never allowed you to control Wai, I won''t allow you to interfere in Weimin''s life and Raelle? Raelle has nothing to do with you. Keep this in mind. I am old now. All those things that you used to control me are nothing to me anymore. So, be wise and be calm now. At your age, you should be more concerned about your health rather than about me and my children. Have a good day!"

    Song Xin''ai hung up the call and actually felt good about it.

    She didn''t like troublesome things just like Raelle so she gave into her family over and over again. But they really had been treating her as a pushovertely. She had to stop it at one point. And since this time, her mother set her eyes on Raelle, she decided to break the pot.

    She turned around and looked at Raelle on the stage. Then her eyes wandered off to Xiang Wai and eventually, she found Xiang Weimin in the crowd with Justin. Seeing the smiles on her children''s faces, she felt rxed in a way she had never done before. She nodded to herself. Indeed, she was old now. She had done enough for this country. It was okay even if she lost everything else now.

    It was enough for her to know that she all her children were at a good ce in their lives now.

    Families are like a flower garden. Some get flowers like Raelle.

    While some sadly end up with thorns like Song Xin''ai. XiaoMeeHee

 Chapter 1110 [Bonus chapter] Lean On You

    1110 [Bonus chapter] Lean On You

    "Hi, Ge!"

    Shui Xian looked at his sister and he frowned a little, feeling that something was not right with this sister of his.

    "After such a long time, you finally remembered that it''s your brother''s engagement?"

    Amiah chuckled a little foolishly, "I came here knowing it''s my brother''s engagement. Something was on my mind and I had to sort out my thoughts beforeing to see you. But, hey! I''m here now, ain''t I?"

    "Oh, thank you so much for gracing us with your presence, Director Jade!"

    "You don''t have to be so sarcastic with me, Ge," said Amiah. "Anyway, congrattions! To both of you! I hope you stay in love with each other as you are in love today."

    "Thank you," replied Raelle. "By the way, are you drunk?"

    Amiahughed, "Not yet."

    "You''ve been drinking?" asked Shui Xian as he finally figured out what was wrong with his sister. She was way too happy for someone who had been keeping a frown etched on her face for years.

    "A little bit," said Amiah as she gestured with her fingers, showing how little she drank.

    "You came here to drink?"

    "No," she replied honestly. "Didn''t I just tell you? I had something on my mind so I just took a ss and then it turned into two, three, four, well, I lost count somewhere along the way."

    "Aww! I''m so proud of you for that," said Shui Xian through his gritted teeth.

    "Thank you, Ge!"

    "I wasn''tplimenting you," said Shui Xian.

    "Oh," she btedly realized this. Then she ignored her brother and turned to Raelle as she said, "You! You should know that I don''t have a high opinion of you, right?"

    "Likewise," was Raelle''s response.

    "I know," said Amiah. "However, that doesn''t mean I hate you. I don''t like you very much but I don''t hate you either. You get what I mean?"

    "I think so," said Raelle.

    "Good," Amiah nodded her head and went on, "Regardless of my opinion, you''re my Ge''s partner. And I hope you take care of him. No, scratch that. He is good at taking care of others. You don''t have to do much. You just have to love him. Love him a lot because that''s all that my Ge wants in life. He is very easily satisfied when he is in love and doesn''t even have high requirements for his partner. I know that very well. But I still hope that you pay more attention to him. He doesn''t say what he wants so you''ll have to observe to figure it out."

    "Don''t worry. I have figured out your brother very well. And I am very certain that we''ll be very happy together."

    "That''s great! That''s all I want. Just be happy!" Her eyes suddenly reddened as she said, "I''m sure that''s what mom would have wanted too. Just to see you happy. So, you both have to be happy."

    "She must have had the same hope for you too," said Raelle. "Shouldn''t you stop undermining yourself?"

    Amiah smiled at that, "Mom used to say that it''s not that she loves me any less. It''s just that she worries more about my Ge because he needs more care. He was the crybaby between us."

    "What the hell are you talking about?" asked Shui Xian angry. "When was I a crybaby?"

    "Ge, it''s not nice to deny your past," said Amiah.

    "Oh, cut the crap. You''re just trying to embarrass me in front of my wife now."

    "Tsk. Ge, you should be generous in life. You can''t be so small-hearted. How will that do? Be more generous and ept your ws. Just like I havee to ept recently that I have been a jerk."

    "Oh, good that you finally know that."

    Raelle listened to the siblings bickering and didn''t interfere at all. She thought that this might be the first time she actually saw this pair of siblings acting like siblings. It gave her a glimpse of what kind of a rtionship they must have had years ago when their mother was alive.

    Sadly, a gap came between them.

    But fortunately, no gap of time could rece the bonding they had with each other.

    Even if it was alcohol that allowed Amiah to be what she used to be and forget about the gloom that usually surrounded her. It was still a good thing. It meant Amiah was willing to walk out of the shadows that had been holding her back for so long.

    "Ge, you should stop it now. What image would you have in front of your wife if you kept bantering with me so unreasonably?" Amiah looked at Raelle. "Did you see? My Ge is very unreasonable at times. Are you okay with that?"

    "I am very okay with that," replied Raelle. "So what if he is unreasonable? I am a very reasonable person. So, isn''t that enough?"

    Amiah didn''t respond immediately but then her smile widened, "Yes. People are right. You are a good match. It''s good to know."

    She suddenly staggered and Shui Xian held her arm to support her as he looked at her reproachfully, "You said you drank a little? You can''t even stand straight for a while."

    "But I can think straight," said Amiah. "Isn''t that more important? Why would I need to stand straight? I can just stand leaning on you. Why? You won''t let me lean on you, Ge?"

    Shui Xian was actually a bit surprised seeing her aggrieved look. How long had been since her sister had depended on him like this? But he also felt a bit helpless and touched her head, "How is that possible? I''m always here to let you lean on me. I never ran from my responsibilities."

    "Yes, you didn''t. You have always been a great brother. And I''m very fortunate to have a brother like you, Ge. Thank you for being my brother. And thank you for bearing with me for so long too. I know I''m very difficult and between the two of us, I''m more unreasonable. But still, you never gave up on me." She hugged his arm saying, "Ge, did I tell you? I love you very much!"

 Chapter 1111 Calculative Friendship

    Chapter 1111 Calctive Friendship

    Shui Xian''s heart actually swelled with happiness when he heard thating from his sister. It had been way too long since his sister had leaned on him like this and told him how much he meant to her. It actually felt good to hear it even now.

    He tapped her nose lovingly, "Ge loves you very much too."

    "I know," responded Amiah. She might not know anything else but this she definitely knew. How could she not know? Between the two of them, it was actually her who wasn''t vocal about her feelings. Her brother had always felt no shame in voicing out what he felt. She rubbed her head against his arm saying, "Ge, you keep loving me. I promise I''ll do better in the future."

    "Silly,"mented Shui Xian. "I think the alcohol has gotten to your head."

    Amiah didn''t argue about that since she also vaguely felt that alcohol was truly getting to her head now. She could walk straight when she came to see her brother but now, her head was slightly spinning.

    Raelle took out a room card from her purse and offered it to Amiah, "Take it. Go and rest for a while. After you feel better,e home. I''ll ask someone to bring you a sobering soup."

    Amiah looked at the room card strangely for a while and then looked at Raelle. No one could tell what was on her mind but she told Raelle, "There is no need for so much trouble. I''ll be fine after lying down for a while."

    "Should I help you?" asked Shui Xian.

    "And leave your own engagement party?" asked Amiah in return. "Don''t be so thoughtless, Ge. What would it look like if you left your wife and walked out with your sister? Won''t people say I''m the evil sister-inw who is trying to drag you away from your wife? And although I love the role of the evil sister-inw, I still won''t like it if people said anything about you."

    Shui Xian shook his head at her, "Does that even matter? You can''t even stand now. How are you gonna walk?"

    Amiah held up her hand to stop him as she looked around and finally raised her hand to catch someone''s attention. Seeing the figure of her best friend walking over she smiled in satisfaction, "See? I''m not a loner. I also have a best friend. Isn''t she here to support me? Don''t worry about me at all."

    Sora heard this sentence when she came over and her lips twitched.

    She smiled at Shui Xian and Raelle as she greeted them first and even congratted them while holding Amiah''s arm to support her. In the end, she reassured Shui Xian, "Have faith in me. I am very good at taking care of her."

    "Sorry for the trouble," said Shui Xian.

    "It''s no trouble at all," replied Sora. "Let''s go, Mia."

    "Oh," responded Amiah. "Bye-bye, Ge! I''ll see youter."

    "A woman is always sober enough for this discussion," replied Amiah.

    Sora didn''t argue about that but said, "On a serious note, you''re really heavy. The other day you Sora shook her head at Amiah as she took her out of the banquet hall. By now, all of Amiah''s weight was on her poor shoulders and it was very difficult to support her with her weak body. She groaned and said, "Have you gotten fat?"

    Amiah pped her hand when she heard that.

    "Oh, so you''re sober enough to care about your weight?"

    "A woman is always sober enough for this discussion," replied Amiah.

    Sora didn''t argue about that but said, "On a serious note, you''re really heavy. The other day you weren''t this heavy."

    "We were drinking together back then," reminded Amiah. "So, how would you know how heavy was I? Besides, when a person is drunk, he seems heavier than his original weight."

    "Where did this theorye from?" questioned Sora.

    "Who cares?" retorted Amiah. "You just have to know there is this theory."

    "Yes, yes. I''ll listen to our esteemed professor of ptrap, Ms. Amiah Jade!"

    "Don''t think I''m so drunk that I can''t even understand that you''re insulting me."

    "Oh, is that so?" Soraughed to herself. "But how did you get so drunk? I left you for just thirty minutes. What did you even do at that time? Do you have to be so tiresome? I am turning into your full-time nanny since you came back to the country."

    "Are you saying I shouldn''t havee back?" asked Amiah.

    "No, I''m saying to stop using freebor. At least pay me."

    "Money hurts friendship. How can you not know, my dear Sora?"

    "You''re hurting my whole body right now with your weight." She helped Amiah sit on the chair in the hallway as she stopped to rest for a while and said, "Let''s rest here for a while. I''m really not able to bear it."

    Amiah rubbed her forehead as she said, "I have a headache."

    "Serves you right. Who asked you to drink so much?" Sora panted as she looked around looking for water. She was very thirsty after pulling Amiah for such a long distance. In truth, they hadn''t even reached the elevator yet but Sora really felt like they walked for too long.

    "Go and bring me some water," said Amiah. "I''ll try to reach the room myself."

    "What? Are you sure? I assured your brother and sister-inw that I''d safely deliver you to the room. How can I be so careless about this job?"

    "Stop talking. I just told you I have a headache. Just go and get me something to drink. I can still walk." As if to prove that she could, she actually stood up and didn''t even sway.

    Sora gave her a dubious look, "Were you putting all your weight on me on purpose?"

    "Yeah. I was trying to see how good of a friend you are."

    "Good! Very good! You wait for me, Amiah! I''ll get back at you for this."

    "Who told you to puke at me the other night? I can''t even do this much!"

    "I didn''t think we had this kind of a calctive friendship. You are indeed a good one!" After stomping her foot, she turned around to leave but stopped and said, "I''m gonna bring you something to eat. You only filled your stomach with alcohol. Are you trying to kill yourself? So, go and wait for me. I''ll find you in a while."

 Chapter 1112 [Bonus chapter] Im Here

    Chapter 1112 [Bonus chapter] I''m Here

    Amiah watched Sora''s figure walking away until her vision was blurry. She shook her head and tried to walk. It seemed she actually overestimated herself since she ended up staggering and almost fell down. She put her hand on the wall to find her support to stop herself from falling.

    She pressed the elevator button and waited. When the elevator opened with a ''ding'' she stepped in and pressed the floor button where the room was. As the door of the elevator was about to close, a leather shoe came in and stopped the door from closing.

    "Excuse me!" said the person who stopped the elevator and stepped in.

    Amiah wasn''t concerned about who entered at least not until she heard that voice. She looked up and found Hyson standing in the elevator as he faced the mirror and looked at something on his suit jacket with tightly furrowed brows.

    He was a bit careless and actually soiled his suit jacket. That''s why he came out to go to the hotel room where he could change into another suit instead. Since it was Raelle''s engagement, Mu Chenyan made all the arrangements extravagant, and that''s why all the guests actually had a room booked in the same hotel tonight.

    Whether they liked to stay the night or not, all of them still had a room booked. They just had to show their invitation card at the reception desk to get the room card.

    But who was Hyson? He was family so his room was obviously reserved first.

    He didn''t pay attention to who else was in the elevator as he was focused on his suit jacket. He was wondering if it''d be difficult to clean this up. If the spot didn''t wash away, this jacket would be wasted. What trouble!

    He couldn''t bring himself to throw away the jacket he wore only once! And it won''t just be a jacket, his whole suit would be ruined. Argh! He should have been careful.

    When the elevator stopped on the seventeenth floor, only then did Hyson look up, and seeing that it wasn''t his floor, he turned his attention back. Meanwhile, Amiah tried to walk out but her legs seemed to be going limp now.

    Hyson looked up and seeing her struggling, he frowned to himself. He was contemting whether to move or pretend like he didn''t see anything. His conscience couldn''t allow him to pretend actually. Even if he wasn''t a very good or kind guy, he couldn''t just ignore someone he knew.

    Especially since Amiah was Shui Xian''s sister. So, no matter what opinion he had of her, he really couldn''t ignore her. In the end, he walked out of the elevator and came to her asking, "Do you need help?"

    Amiah looked up at him with her bleary eyes and smiled foolishly, "So you can see me, indeed. Here I thought I was invisible."

    "Director Jade, that''s a funny joke."

    "You didn''tugh though," she pointed out.

    "I didn''t know you still had it in you," said Amiah. "Helping others. You''re really a good guy."

    01:28

    "I don''t think you believe that yourself," he responded.

    "I don''t justugh at any joke," was his response.

    Amiah shook her head and held out her hand saying, "Since you''re offering, I''ll just take the help. My room is at the end of the hallway. Can you take me there?"

    Hyson looked at her hand and mentally prepared himself before holding her arm to support her as he said, "Sure. Helping others is always a good thing. How can I not help?"

    "I didn''t know you still had it in you," said Amiah. "Helping others. You''re really a good guy."

    "I don''t think you believe that yourself," he responded.

    "No, I really don''t," agreed Amiah. "You''re definitely not a good guy. But you''re very good at acting like one. What pity that you can''t act that well in front of the camera."

    "Are you insulting me?" asked Hyson. "I have done my best. You can stop criticizing me now that we are done with our shooting."

    "I think criticizing helps thought," was her response. "It did help you. You improved by leaps and bounds during your stay at our production set. Even I was surprised."

    "Isn''t that because I am bursting with potential? Once I''m stimted even I can''t be sure what I am capable of."

    Amiahughed out seeing his smug looking as heplimented himself to heaven. Perhaps, this was what she liked about him. He was full of light and positive energy. It made him so dazzling that she couldn''t help wanting to be close to him while he found every chance to run away from her.

    It''s not like she couldn''t tell how hard he tried to avoid her.

    "Yes, yes. You''re very capable," she agreed with him.

    "I thought you were drunk," said Hyson. "Then howe you''re very clear-headed right now while you can''t even walk?"

    "Oh, it''s my unique talent," said Amiah. "The more drunk I am, the more clear-headed I am. I am obviously unable to support my own weight at the moment but my thoughts are very clear."

    Hyson chuckled, "That''s really a talent indeed. I have never heard of it before."

    "What about you? How are you when you''re drunk? Do you be reserved or let loose?"

    "Do I have to answer that?" he asked.

    "Why can''t you answer that?" she questioned. "I don''t think I asked a very difficult question or is it that you just don''t want to answer me?"

    "It''s because I have no answer," he replied. "I am not sure how I am when I am drunk. I don''t drink that much usually so it''s hard to figure out. But I think I''m already a chatterbox so maybe I be even more of a chatterbox after drinking. I can''t be reserved. I''m certain of that."

    "You have quite some faith in yourself."

    "Of course," he responded.

    "I''m here," she said as she looked at the number on the door in front and took out the room card. While Hyson was helping her, he decided to help to the end and send this buddha to the temple with flowers. He took the card and opened the door for her and took her in.

 Chapter 1113: Like Me A Little Bit

    Chapter 1113: Like Me A Little BitFollowing the principle of being a good person to the end, Hyson helped Amiah sit down on the bed and even went to get some water for her from the fridge. It was only when he brought the water that Amiah recalled how she stupidly forgot that there would always be water in the hotel room and yet she sent her best friend to get her something to drink.

    She could still me it on her drunkness but wondered why Sora was suddenly so stupid along with her? Did she have such a big influence on her own best friend? Her drunkness also reached her?

    "Well..." started Hyson as he looked around, seeing that there seemed to be nothing else he could do. "I should leave now."

    "Wait!" said Amiah. She drank the water and soothed the itch in her throat. She pressed the cold water bottle against her hot face as she looked up at him. "Can you stay for a while? I have something to talk to you about."

    Hyson suddenly regretted being a good person. He didn''t even have to think to know where this was gonna go. After all, he had been avoiding this for so long.

    "Do we have to?" he asked as if struggling to resist.

    "I won''t eat you," she said. "I won''t take that much of your time. So, please, stay."

    Since she said ''please'' so nicely, Hyson stopped struggling and turned around. "Alright. I''m here."

    Amiah looked at his face silently for a long while not knowing where to begin. But since she was already drunk and fearless, she decided to pierce this paper window between them that had been making her restless for so long.

    "I like you," she told him straightforwardly.

    Hyson didn''t look surprised to hear that. He touched his nose and looked around, not knowing whether to be polite here or be himself?

    "Thanks, I guess?" he responded.

    Amiahughed at his response. "That''s it?"

    "What else?" he asked. "What else do you want me to say?"

    "I don''t know. Give a better reaction. An honest one, maybe?"

    "I heard you''re fragile. My best friend warned me to be nice. I don''t do things that my best friend asks me not to do."

    "But I want an honest reaction," she said. "Don''t worry about my fragility. It''s not as bad as you think."

    Hyson licked his lips and nodded his head before saying, "Okay then. My answer is that I don''t like you."

    Amiah suddenly felt like she shouldn''t have told him to be honest. He didn''t even mince his words and told her to her face that he didn''t like her. Did he even realize how much that could hurt someone''s self-esteem?

    But thinking about it again, if he really minced his words would he really be the Hyson she knew? Not really.

    "Ouch! That hurts," she said bitterly.

    Hyson was observing her expressions and saw the reddened corners of her eyes. It seemed she was about to cry and he pursed his lips when he realized that. But honestly speaking, if he was asked the same question again, his answer won''t change. He wasn''t that generous.

    "If you''re afraid of hurting then you shouldn''t have asked me to be honest," he said. He took a deep breath and decided to be patient as he crouched down in front of her and looked up at her. He gently wiped the tear that fell from her eyes and said, "I don''t know what you even like about me. Why don''t you tell me? I promise I''ll change."

    Amiah''sugh escaped through her tears as she pped his hand away softly, "You''re still in the mood to joke. I''m serious."

    "So am I," he told her. "I really don''t like you."

    "You can stop repeating that," she said in frustration. "It''s almost like I don''t deserve to be liked. Am I so bad?"

    "I don''t know," he replied honestly.

    "What?" she asked in confusion.

    "I don''t know if you''re bad or not," he borated. "I wouldn''t know that since I don''t know you for that long. And even if I have any opinion, what does that matter? It won''t change your worth. My opinion is my opinion. It doesn''t define your worth."

    Amiah''s tears suddenly fell even harder when she heard that. How was she supposed to respond to this? This man knew how to be mean with his words but at the same time, he really made her feel motivated to keep going.

    She had been very clear about her life but it messed up when she came across him. For the first time in her life, she hit a wall when her production was halted all because of him. All because someone was willing to protect him and also to get revenge for him. She was repeatedly told how or what she had been doing wrong since he came into her life.

    But every time he stood in front of her, despite his prejudice he never treated her badly. He was such aplicated person that she wasn''t able to figure him out. And it only now hit her why Sora told her she couldn''t handle someone like him. She really couldn''t. She could barely even understand him. How was she able to handle him?

    "If I''m not bad, can you like me a little bit?" she asked. In fact, it looked like she was pleading.

    It actually made Hyson see her in a different light and he felt a little pity for her. He smiled soothingly at her, "You''re lowering your worth by asking me to like you a little bit? Why be happy with the bare minimum when you get the stars and moon? Maybe not from me, but someone else might be willing to offer it to you. So, why are you doing this to yourself?" He rubbed her tears again as he added, "I don''t think it''s worth the deal. It really isn''t worth it at all."

 Chapter 1114: [Bonus chapter] We Are Different

    Chapter 1114: [Bonus chapter] We Are Different"Firstly, I am not looking for a partner in life," Hyson told her very honestly. "Secondly, you''re not the kind of a person I usually even befriend."

    "Why? What is wrong with me?"

    "Nothing," said Hyson. "It''s just that your ideas don''t match mine. You have a stubborn, rebellious personality. I have a careless and casual attitude toward life. You take everything too seriously. To me, family is everything. Above everything. Above my own life as well. But it''s not the same for you." He paused briefly and said, "I''m not saying that people don''t have differences. Yes, they do. Even Ellie and Xian Ge are very different from each other. Despite their differences, they match each other perfectly for a reason. We don''t have amon ground. You and I are very different."

    "Is that all?" she asked. "All because we are different?"

    "Not really," he said. "It''s not just because of that. Mostly, the thing is still the same. Differences can be ovee if one is willing to do it. But I''m not willing to. You see, my best friend tried to lower her limit of things she considered troublesome after she married Xian Ge. Why? Because she thinks once a rtionship is established, it''s worth her effort. I actually am like her. I only put in the effort when the rtionship is worth it. You only see my smiling face. And maybe because of my cheekiness and sweet mouth, you found what was missing from your life and you considered that feeling to be liking. But have you thought that you could be totally wrong? You don''t really know the real me at all."

    "All of those are just words tofort me. The essence is you just never liked me," said Amiah.

    Hyson didn''t deny it but agreed honestly, "Yes."

    "You really know how to break someone''s heart," said Amiah. "Heartless."

    "I don''t like deceiving people or ying with their feelings. I hate it the most to give someone a false hope. And I despise people who do that too."

    "What''s wrong with deception? At least, it can make someone happy for a while."

    "That''s not called happiness. It''s called living in a lie. I don''t like lies. I never did. I have been taught to be honest with myself and with the people around me. I never learned to fake it that''s why I''m the person with the smallest social circle in our band. Even though it''s Shuyi Ge is known for his sleeping and Yiwen Ge is known for being a homebody. And yet, I''m the one with the least friends in the entertainment industry? Why? Everything in this glittery world is fake and I am unable to be a part of it."

    "Whatever. You still hurt me. You could have said it nicely that you don''t have feelings for me."

    "Oh," responded and thought about it before he stood up and took her hand, and said, "Madmosaille! It''s with utmost shame that I have to convey to you that I am unable to have any feelings for you. But my best wishes are still with you for your future."

    Amiah''s lips twitched before she burst outughing, "I can''t even bring myself to hit you."

    "It''s because I don''t deserve a beating."

    "No, you do," she emphasized.

    "How is that possible?" he retorted. "Look at my handsome face. This face doesn''t deserve a beating."

    "So that you can continue to fool other innocent girls with that face of yours?"

    "Hey! I won''t take the me. I have never tried to fool girls. I don''t even flirt."

    "Then don''t be so nice to them too," she told him seriously.

    "Huh?"

    "It''s because you''re so nice to me that I fell for you. So, you should be careful. You don''t have to do anything. Your face is deceiving enough and adding on your cheerful personality, you have no idea how many girls have a crush on you secretly. That''s why I said to be careful and don''t be nice to just anyone."

    Hyson thought about it seriously and wondered if he was really that nice that he''d end up charming people without realizing it. He didn''t think he had that talent. And honestly speaking, he didn''t think he was that nice to Amiah either.

    "It''s not just because you''re nice to me," she started as if she heard his mental voice. "It''s more so because I was very lost when you came to support me and helped me out of the darkness with your words. So, I couldn''t stop my feelings for you."

    "Oh? Does that mean I''m not that great? It''s just that unfortunately, I was there at the right time for you."

    Amiah chuckled as she wiped her tears and nodded at him. "Yeah."

    "Next time, I''ll keep note of that."

    "Why are you so serious?" she asked. "Is it that bad to have someone in your life as a partner to lean on?" She was genuinely curious about this question. Because first and foremost, he told her how much he wasn''t looking for a partner and she wondered, why?

    "I''m not sure if it''s bad or not. But what I know is that I don''t feel the need to have a partner for now. I''m not sure about the future. Maybe one day I''d feel the need for that but at this very moment of my life, I really don''t feel any need for that. Besides, I haven''t met a person who can handle all of what I am. I''m too much even for my best friend and trust me, Raelle Xiang can handle everything." He had a very interesting expression as he shared this with her.

    "You seem very smug about that," shemented as she looked at him in amusement. She was once again reminded of how much she didn''t know him at all.

    He shrugged, "That can''t be helped. I have a lot to be proud of. See? You don''t even know how much of a prideful person I am."

 Chapter 1115: Someone Better

    Chapter 1115: Someone Better"You''re indeed very prideful,"mented Amiah in a low voice.

    "Can''t be helped," Hyson shrugged nonchntly. "I''ll still take this time to tell you to be nicer to yourself. And don''t think my rejection is the end. It could be a new beginning. So, if you have anything you want to say or even hit me just to vent, you can do it. But after this night, let it all go. If you took the sorrow of tonight with you to tomorrow, it won''t do you any good."

    "Are you worried about me?" she asked.

    "I am. You are still Xian Ge''s sister. That''s the only reason I was avoiding you so much. I didn''t want to hurt you. But you didn''t take the hint."

    "I did," she told him. "I knew what your answer would be."

    Hyson frowned uncertainly when he heard that and questioned, "And yet you confessed?"

    "Yes," she replied. "Why shouldn''t I? This was the first time in my life I really wanted to tell someone my feelings for him. You are the first guy I have actually confessed to. And I got rejected. What an experience."

    Hyson scratched the tip of his nose, "Sorry for giving you such a memory. But if it makes you feel any better, you are the first person who has confessed to me like this too."

    "Huh?" Amiah was dumbfounded. She couldn''t believe it at all. "Liar. I don''t believe you." How could she believe it? Looking at his face, how was it possible that only she had a crush on him? That couldn''t be possible.

    "Well, I didn''t say no one had a crush on me," he said. "I said no one confessed like you. Some girls did try to approach me but I''d always slip away. Even if I''m very good at hurting people with my words, I wasn''t allowed to hurt girls'' innocent hearts. My mum won''t allow it so I decided to y hide and seek with those girls. I tried with you too so you should know it better. Whenever they even tried to bring the topic to feelings, I''d find a way to change the topic."

    "You must be feeling so good about yourself for doing that."

    "No," he told her. "Not at all. I often felt like a jerk for doing it but if I really just stood there and listened to their confession then my answers to them would really make me a jerk."

    "Actually, when I decided to tell you that I like you, I was prepared for the rejection," Amiah said to him. "You see, when you like someone you can tell their feelings for you. If you purposely choose to act blind, that''s another story. But in reality, you have an understanding at some level. So, I figured out long ago that you don''t have any feelings for me. If anything, you might even find my feelings for you a bit annoying."

    "That''s true."

    Amiah hit his arm, "How can you even call someone''s sincere feelings for you annoying?"

    "Don''t I even get to decide my own feelings? I have no control over yours. Why are you trying to control mine?"

    Amiah shook her head at him and tutted.

    "So? Why did you gather the courage to let me know your feelings despite knowing the answer?" He asked curiously. "Were you hoping for a miracle?"

    Amiah snorted, "No way. I don''t wait for miracles. I only did it because I wanted to. Not to get an answer from you but to ease my own heart. I didn''t want to hide my feelings within my heart. I wanted to have a conclusion. The best way was to say it out loud to you. I just wanted to let you know that I like you. I wasn''t expecting anything in return. You see, sometimes, we just want to let out our feelings. It makes a difference. It makes a big difference."

    Hyson nodded in understanding, "Then I''m d you said it out loud. I might not like you but I have to say that you are brave. Brave enough to face and ept your feelings. And not only that but also be unafraid of rejection. That''s amendable thing."

    "Then how about you give me a hug as a farewell to my first love?" she suggested.

    "How about a no?" he retorted.

    Amiah made a face at him, "Why do you have to run from it? I''m just asking for a hug here. A friendly hug is that difficult?"

    "It is very difficult."

    "You''re getting meaner and meaner. Are you trying to make me realize how much of a hateful person you are?"

    "Yes! You guessed it. So, the sooner you forget a jerk like me, the better."

    Amiahughed at that, "You! Is it okay for you to trample on yourself just to make a point to me? I don''t think you''re a jerk. I still have this much trust in the person I like."

    Hyson didn''t know how to respond to that so he stayed silent.

    "I should leave now," he finally broke the silence. "You should take some rest. If you''re hungry, I''ll ask someone to bring you something."

    "No need. Sora will bring it in a while."

    "That''s good," he turned to leave and when he opened the door, he paused and looked back as he said to her, "I have to say, you asked if you''re a bad person. I don''t think so. If you did, you wouldn''t have a best friend like Sora Ke who stuck with you for years. For better or worse, she had been there for you. Bad people can''t have such good friends."

    Amiah leaned against the wall with her arms crossed as she looked at him and smiled, "Indeed. I got lucky when it came to friends. I found a diamond."

    "I wish you all the best for your future," said Hyson. "I''m not your destiny but I''m sure someone else is out there waiting for you. Someone better than me."

    "Oh, then I hope I find him sooner so that I can go around hand in hand with him in front of you and show you how happy I can be even if you''re not the one beside me."

    Hyson smiled at her, "Then I hope that dayes sooner."

 Chapter 1116: [Bonus chapter] Biggest Worry

    Chapter 1116: [Bonus chapter] Biggest WorryWhen he opened the full door to leave, he saw Sora standing outside the door with a trolley of food beside her. He didn''t know how long she stood there but he still politely called out to her, "Miss Sora, it''s nice to see you."

    "It''s good to see you too, Yue Fai." She looked behind him before saying, "You broke my best friend''s heart. Didn''t you?"

    Hyson pursed his lips but still told her, "I''m sorry for that."

    Sora looked at him with aplicated look in her eyes before sighing, "Forget it. I don''t even know if I should me you for this or not." Then she walked past him and pushed open the door that he didn''t close yet. She took the food trolley inside and closed the door.

    Just as she expected she found Amiah crouching down when Hyson left her with her head buried in her knees. Her shoulders were shaking which indicated that she was crying.

    Sora bit her lips and walked to her side. She sat down beside her on the floor and put her hand on her shoulder silently. She didn''t say a word offort but just patted her shoulderfortingly. Amiah didn''t even look up to see who it was because she already knew. She only looked up after a while with tears streaming down her face.

    Her makeup was all messed up. In fact, even her gown had tear stains but none of the two cared about that right now.

    Facing her best friend, Amiah didn''t feel ashamed to cry at all as she said, "I failed in my first confession, Sora."

    "I know," said Sora. "I''m sorry about that."

    "What? You won''t say you told me so?"

    "Well, I did tell you so but I still won''t bring that up. You chose to confess. It was your decision. I couldn''t do anything about that. But since you took this road, you had to ept the truth too."

    "I ept," said Amiah. "I do ept the fact that he doesn''t like me. But knowing it is one thing, what should I do about the hurt that my heart is feeling? It''s not that easy to reason with your heart or your feelings. You should know that too. Aren''t you a writer? Why don''t you understand?"

    Sora hugged her and said, "I understand everything that''s why I am not asking you to stop crying. I know it hurts. It''s inevitable. It''s been happening from the beginning of history. Love always hurts in one way or another. There is no way around it. All we can do is to let the time take it''s course and bring us to a better ce. Or bring a better person to our life who can numb the pain of the rejection you''re feeling right now. And trust me, I have a strong faith that you''d find such a person."

    "Even I don''t have such faith in myself. Why are you so sure?"

    "You''re my best friend. I have all the faith in the world in you. It''s not like you''re a viin. In fact, even viins have happy endings. How can you not have one? We just have to be patient about it and wait for it toe to us. Meanwhile, we can work on making progress and be a better version of ourselves."

    "Now, you''re definitely talking like a writer,"mented Amiah.

    "Work habits," said Sora. "Can''t be helped. But you get what I mean, right?"

    "Yes, I do," replied Amiah. "I don''t have faith in myself but I''d put my trust in you as always."

    "That''s all we need," said Sora. "Now, do you wanna cry first or eat something first?"

    "Can''t I do both at the same time?" asked Amiah.

    "No," answered Sora. "We only do one thing at a time. Multitasking can ruin things. You either eat first to get more energy to cry or get breathless from crying enough so that you can fill your stomach."

    Suddenly a growling voice rang in the silent room which made both of them stunned.

    "It''s you!" they said simultaneously and narrowed their eyes at each other. "It''s definitely you!" They still argued at the same time.

    "Don''t push it on me! You''re the one crying. It''s you who is hungry," argued Sora.

    "No. It''s not me," retorted Amiah even her tears forgot to fall at this time as she tried to prove her innocence. Before she could say anything again, her own stomach growled loudly.

    Earlier it was definitely Sora who insisted on not epting and pushing it on Amiah but now, it was definitely Amiah. It seemed they both were hungry. So, when they heard the second growl, both of them looked at each other and burst outughing together.

    "Stopughing. You''re looking ugly," said Sora as she pushed Amiah lightly.

    "You''re ugly! Have you seen your hairstyle? It looks worse than the birds'' nest," Amiah didn''t want to fall behind at all.

    While bickering around, they went to the bathroom to clean up their faces and wipe their makeup. Both of them have spoiled their gowns so they decided to just take them off. Anyway, they were best friends, much less their underwear, they had even seen each other naked. So, there was no embarrassment in doing so.

    But still, they wrapped a bathrobe around them.

    After gettingfortable, Sora pulled Amiah to fill their stomach because she believed there was nothing that food couldn''t solve. She just had to feed Amiah until she would forget the loss of her rejection. Because by then, her biggest worry would be how to lose weight! HaHaHa!

    Amiah didn''t know what evil n her best friend was brewing as she followed her and ate the hot meal to soothe the hungry cats in her stomach. Well, she had to say. After crying so much, the food tasted even better. Or maybe it was her illusion! Whatever, as long as it tasted good.

 Chapter 1117: Hi & Hello!

    Chapter 1117: Hi & Hello!"What are you doing here?"

    Xiang Hulin looked at his ex-wife who asked this question and answered, "It''s my daughter''s engagement."

    Song Xin''ai gave him a look, "You know that''s not what I meant."

    Xiang Hulin obviously knew that was not what she asked. She asked why he was here to see her. "Just wanted to say hello to you."

    "Okay! We are done with hi and hello. Go away now. Scram!"

    If Hyson was here he''d be really shocked to see how simr Song Xin''ai looked to Raelle at the moment. Because he was the person who was most used to Raelle''s ''scram!''.

    "Well, I''m not done yet though," said Xiang Hulin as he also picked up a ss of champagne and looked at her taking small sips with an ufortable expression on her face. "If you don''t like drinking. Don''t drink."

    Song Xin''ai hurriedly put away the champagne. Even if it wasn''t a strong liquor like vodka, she still didn''t like it.

    "What do you want Hulin?" asked Song Xin''ai. "Shouldn''t you be with Su Feifei right now? Don''t be a douche and go, be with her. It''s not good to ignore your date." She suddenly turned and faced him, "You''re not here to actually see if I''m okay with it or not, right?"

    "Why would I ask for your opinion if it''s my life?" retorted Xiang Hulin.

    "Exactly my point. It''s your life, make your own choices. And I must say, you made a very good choice this time around by listening to Chenyan and having this blind date. Feifei is good. She is definitely good."

    Xiang Hulin smiled at her words and agreed, "I know. She is quite interesting."

    "How could she not be interesting?" Song Xin''ai picked up a snack to eat and went on, "In fact, Chenyan''s whole group was very interesting. It''s a shame that their leader died and they all scattered." She took a brief pause toment before asking him, "On a serious note, why are you looking for me?"

    "No special reason," said Xiang Hulin. "I just wanted to ask you how it feels to be here tonight?"

    "Kinda special," replied Song Xin''ai. "I am not sure how to describe it. I still have some difficulties with putting my feelings into words but I won''t have to say anything to you. You''re the only person who can understand my feeling right now. You and I are in the same situation in this engagement."

    "I do understand," was what Xiang Hulin said. "You look a little disturbed. What''s up? Family again?"

    "If you know why ask?" she retorted.

    "What are they up to now?" he asked.

    "Oh, my mother called asking me if I know about Raelle''s engagement and how grand it was and how shameless the Xiang family is for not even inviting Raelle''s maternal grandparents," she scoffed at that herself. "As if they deserve to be called grandparents. Even I haven''t gotten shameless enough to say that I deserve to be this girl''s mother and they have the nerve to question her? I don''t know who even gave them the nerve."

    "Sorry to say this but I think it''s you," said Xiang Hulin. "You gave them the nerve by letting them do what they wanted for so long. You gave in to their unreasonable expectations of you over and over again to the point that they started thinking they could do anything."

    "Thanks for the reminder," she said.

    "If you had taken the trouble to fight for yourself at the first step, we wouldn''t be here today."

    Song Xin''ai didn''tment on that. Maybe she did do wrong by finding it troublesome to deal with her own family but what could she do? She was also just a girl who seek some attention from her family. Although she didn''t look for that affirmation anymore, it didn''t change the fact that it hurt.

    "Hulin, don''t waste the rest of your life. If you''re reallypatible with Feifei. Go for it."

    "What makes you think I won''t?" he asked. "You don''t think that I had been alone for so many years because of you, right?"

    "I''m not that delusional," she responded.

    "Good," he said. "Because it''s certainly not like that. I just wasn''t able to get over some things. But now it''s okay. I got my father and my sister back. I think everything is okay in life now."

    "I understand," she said. "I''m sorry for making you suffer from this separation you didn''t deserve. It wasn''t even your fault but you had to take the punishment."

    "It''s alright. These years taught me a lot too."

    "I just wish you the best as a friend. We are divorced but it won''t change the fact that we are friends. Does it?"

    "It''s been so long since we divorced. And even when I didn''t get to see my father and my sister, we were still friends. Why would it change now? Since you''re so concerned about me as a friend, I''m also worried about you. Don''t be so hard on yourself all the time. Take it easy. You''ve done enough in this life."

    "I also think I''ve done enough. I have done my best." Then she smiled at him sincerely, "Thank you for not giving up on giving me lectures over the years. You''ve been the most constant nagger in my life for years."

    "Hey! I''m not a nagger!"

    "Yes, you are," she insisted. "Do you want me to call someone and ask?"

    "Let''s call Chenchen!"

    "Why? Your sister will always be your sister. If you ever murdered someone, she''d be the first to bury the body for you. The whole world can be wrong but Chenyan''s brother can never be wrong."

    Xiang Hulin was actually pleased to hear that because he knew it was true. How could his Chenchen ever say he was wrong? She''d fight you to death if you said her brother is wrong. That''s his Chenchen. His silly but sweet sister.

    But in fact, only he''d be the one calling her sweet apart from Raelle and Hyson.

    No one else would dare to im it.

 Chapter 1118: [Bonus chapter] Cant Hurt Him

    Chapter 1118: [Bonus chapter] Can''t Hurt Him"Why don''t we call Raelle instead?" suggested Song Xin''ai.

    Xiang Hulin gave her a bitter look, "Forget it. Let''s not disturb her tonight."

    Song Xin''aiughed, "You''re just scared because you know you''ll lose since Raelle won''t lie and you''ll be exposed as a nagger."

    "As if you can win in front of her," he shot back.

    Song Xin''ai coughed unnaturally and looked away. "Oh, anyway, where is Feifei? I''ll say hello to her."

    "She is on the dance floor," pointed Xiang Hulin and didn''t care about how she avoided the topic. "Her favorite grandnephew in here. How can she not dance with him?" He suddenly had a gentle look in his eyes as he added, "She has an adorable grandnephew though. He is such a sweet gentleman. I just met him for a while, but he is a sweetheart."

    Song Xin''ai gave him a strange look before saying, "Oh? Are you jealous that she has an adorable grandnephew?"

    "No," he denied.

    "I almost forgot. Congrattions! You''re already a grandfather too!"

    Xiang Hulin''s expression turned cloudy from sunny almost instantly and his anger level rose consistently. He clenched his fists and said through gritted teeth, "Don''t remind me! I''m already mad enough."

    Song Xin''aiughed softly at his reaction. It was so amusing to see how he changed his face. One second he was like a gentle grandpa, but now, he was a grumpy grandpa.

    "You can stillugh?" he asked in anger. "Is this something funny? That bastard son actually did such a thing and you areughing?"

    "Hey! That bastard son is still yours. Don''t swear at him," said Song Xin''ai. "Besides, I trust in my son. He is not an unreasonable and irresponsible person. Something must have happened that we don''t know about. Wait for a while patiently and we''ll just ask himter what''s going on. But from what I heard from Chenyan, even he doesn''t know anything."

    "Doesn''t that only prove that he is blind and an idiot? He deserves to be fooled. Who even called him the ace of the Air Force Academy back then? I have to drag that person over to see what a blind officer he chose as the ace!"

    "Okay, now, you''re just venting," said Song Xin''ai. "There is no reason for that though. Weimin had always been clear about what he wanted to do in his life. And he never failed to let us two irresponsible parents feel involved in his life. He had always been so worry-free."

    "Yeah. And he was deciding to give me a heart attack at this point in my life. I want to beat him so badly right now."

    "It''s not his age to be beaten though," said Song Xin''ai. "And if he really allowed you to beat him, it''d only show that he is a good son."

    "A loving mother spoils the son."

    "As if I have ever gotten a chance to spoil him. I''m just giving you a reasonable argument right now. We should be calmer about this and be patient too. We don''t know what happened. What''s the guarantee that he wasn''t plotted against? It''s not like it never happened with you."

    Xiang Hulin fell silent when he heard that didn''t continue.

    "Wow! My parents seem to be having a rare peaceful conversation. What a surprise!"

    Both of them looked behind to see Xiang Weimin standing there looking at them.

    Seeing him both of them lost their temper. And even before Xiang Weimin could move, Song Xin''ai extended her hand and pulled Xiang Weimin''s ear. She twisted it with force making Xiang Weimin wince in pain.

    "Mom!"

    "Don''t call me mom right now! I''m very mad!"

    Xiang Hulin gave her a look, "Weren''t you saying that we should be calmer?"

    "Who asked him toe to annoy me with his cheeky smile?"

    "I''m not even allowed to smile now?" asked Xiang Weimin in confusion. He didn''t know what was happening. It seemed his intuition to stay away from his parents was right. He shouldn''t havee to find trouble for himself here.

    "You fool! I don''t even know how I gave birth to you. If there was anyone in our family that I had no faith in, it was Wai! I thought if there was anyone who made a mistake in life, it''d be Wai because of her impulsiveness but I never thought it''d be you who never even gave me a single worry in life. What am I supposed to do now?"

    "You both need to at least tell me what are you talking about?" he asked. "You both have been ring at me all night. At least tell me what have I done. I have the right to know why I''m being prosecuted or I''ll rebel!"

    Xiang Hulin flicked his forehead making his forehead turn red. "You still have the nerve to talk back to your mother? Be obedient and take your punishment or it''ll get worse if you resisted."

    Xiang Weimin gaped at them in disbelief and looked around, "How about we take it somewhere else? Huh? Everyone is looking at us. Let''s not make a spectacle of our family here."

    "He is right," said Xiang Hulin to Song Xin''ai.

    Before they could move, a small figure rushed to Xiang Weimin and stood in front of him. His small arms opened as if he was protecting him. He pursed his lips and took a while to muster his courage to speak in a soft voice, "You can''t hurt him."

    Xiang Hulin and Song Xin''ai were taken aback. Then both looked at that small figure who stood in front of Justin trying to maintain his courage and hiding his shyness behind this fake courage.

    "Don''t bully my friend!" said Justin raising his voice a little but it had no dettering power. If anything, it could melt anyone and kill them with sweetness.

    Even Xiang Weimin forgot to react when he saw this scene and a big smile spread on his face unconsciously. He just stared at this little brave friend and shook his head.

 Chapter 1119: Coaxing People

    Chapter 1119: Coaxing PeopleNeither Xiang Hulin nor Song Xin''ai had it in them to keep a straight face in front of such a cute bodyguard.

    Xiang Weimin patted the hand of his mother which was still on his ear and she subconsciously let go. He got down and picked up Justin in his arms. As he held him up, Justin was still not reconciled and kept looking at Song Xin''ai and Xiang Hulin vigntly with his puffed-up cheeks.

    Xiang Weimin poked his cheek with her finger and asked, "What are you doing here? Didn''t I leave you with your mother?"

    "I was looking for you and then I saw them bullying you," said Justin in his sweet voice.

    "No one is bullying me though," said Xiang Weimin.

    Justin looked at his ear and pouted, "But your ear is all red. Does it hurt? Should I blow on it?"

    "Okay. You blow on it. It won''t hurt," said Xiang Weimin to reassure him. Although it actually didn''t hurt at all. He was just messing with his mother. How could a big man like him be afraid of ear-pulling? Besides, which child hadn''t gotten their ears pulled in their life by their parents? He wasn''t an exception.

    Justin seriously blew on Xiang Weimin''s ear and even touched it lightly with his small hand.

    It looked like he was in more pain than Xiang Weimin.

    Xiang Weimin couldn''t help kissing his cheek saying, "It doesn''t hurt anymore. You blew the pain away."

    "Really?" asked Justin seriously. He was a kid but he believed he wasn''t so easy to fool.

    "It really doesn''t hurt," replied Xiang Weimin.

    Justin looked at Song Xin''ai and Xiang Hulin, "It''s all these bad people''s fault."

    Xiang Weimin pursed his lips to control his smile. As he looked up, he found his parents ring at him. He cleared his throat unnaturally and said, "They are not bad people."

    "But they hurt you. And they even yelled at you," was Justin''s response.

    "They are my parents," told Xiang Weimin. "They have the right to yell at me. Who told me to be their son? They are irresponsible parents but definitely not bad people."

    "Huh!" Song Xin''ai snorted. "Look who is calling us irresponsible."

    "Right. At least, we can recognize our own kids," responded Xiang Hulin.

    "What are you both whispering?" asked Xiang Weimin curiously because he believed it had something to do with himself. "You know it''s a bad habit to whisper like this."

    "We have our own secrets," said Song Xin''ai. "We don''t feel the need to tell you about you."

    "Exactly!"

    "Wow! You both are agreeing? That''s rare."

    "How is it rare?" asked Song Xin''ai. "We agreed on a lot of things. Or else we won''t have had three kids together."

    "Oh," was the only response Xiang Weimin gave because he didn''t want to have this discussion. "Anyway, next time don''t scare this little bean. Keep your fierce aura away."

    "What? We are scary?" asked Xiang Hulin and Song Xin''ai simultaneously.

    "Or else? Can you please smile a little? Don''t always keep that straight face. You scared the little kid. Do you know how it can affect his mental health? What if it leaves a shadow on him?"

    Their faces twitched when they heard that. They didn''t think they kept a straight face as much as Xiang Weimin did himself. And even they didn''t dare to be too harsh to this son who had a fierce and intimidating aura, yet he was telling them that they were the ones with a fierce and scary aura?

    They really didn''t know what to say to him.

    "I really want to p his face with a truth right now," said Song Xin''ai.

    "So do I," agreed Xiang Hulin. "But this isn''t the right time or ce. Let''s wait."

    Song Xin''ai shook her head at this son and said, "You just wait. I''ll see how long you can keep smiling smugly."

    Xiang Weimin gaped at his mother, "Is there a mother who wants her own son to stop smiling?"

    "I said smugly," emphasized Song Xin''ai.

    "What are you all doing here?"

    Xiang Weimin turned around and said, "Grandfather, these two are berating me."

    Grandfather Xiang looked at Song Xin''ai and Xiang Hulin, "Both of you don''t get to hurt my grandson." Xiang Weimin gave them a look but it instantly fell when Grandfather Xiang added, "I''ll deal with him myself."

    "Huh?" Xiang Weimin was dumbfounded. "Grandfather, what do you mean? What have I done?"

    "You''ll know soon enough," replied Grandfather Xiang. "Let''s get through this engagement first. After that, we''ll deal with the mess you have created for all of us."

    "Wait? I really did something?" asked Xiang Weimin. "I think I''m very innocent."

    "You don''t look very innocent to me," said Grandfather Xiang. "But since you''re my grandson, I''ll give you the benefit of the doubt for now. Take Justin with you elsewhere. There is no need for him to get bored in between us."

    "Oh-okay," Xiang Weimin hurriedly ran away with Justin.

    After he left, Grandfather Xiang turned to Song Xin''ai and Xiang Hulin who stood straight with their heads down like two kids who were waiting to be punished.

    "Can''t you two have patience at this age?"

    "He came to find faults himself," said Xiang Hulin. "Father, I couldn''t help it. Besides, you should understand me. If I had something like this, you''d have already beaten me with your belt."

    Grandfather Xiang snorted, "Belt? Why would I waste my belt when I can use my leather whip?"

    Xiang Hulin gulped and didn''t dare to look at his father.

    "You both need to stay out of this," said Grandfather Xiang. "Chenyan will handle it. Stand aside and just observe. No matter what, I still won''t allow you to hurt my grandson."

    "Yes, Father."

    "Yes, Elder Xiang."

    "Elder Xiang!" Grandfather Xiang looked up and he smiled gently at the person who called him.

    "Oh, it''s Feifei. I''ve been meaning to have a chat with you. Why did your brother-inw didn''te?"

    "He wanted to," answered Su Feifei as she looked at Xiang Hulin who still standing obediently. "But something came up. But don''t worry. He said once he is free, he''lle to see you."

    "That''s alright," said Grandfather Xiang.

    "Oh, by the way, have you met my grandnephew?" asked Su Feifei as she pushed Rowan ahead. "Meet Rowan."

    Grandfather Xiang smiled at Rowan, "Oh, this young man is so handsome."

    "Thank you!" said Rowan politely. "How are you great-granduncle? I heard from grandfather about you."

    "Did you?"

    "Yes. Beforeing here, he told me about you. Also, Aunt Chenyan also came to my birthday. My grandfather was really sad that you didn''te."

    Grandfather Xiangughed, "I couldn''te. I''m sorry for that."

    "It''s okay. I received your gift and well wishes. I can''t possibly trouble you toe over. I am a junior. I shoulde to see you instead."

    "Aiyo! What a sensible young man you are!"

    Su Feifei smiled proudly and patted Rowan''s shoulder, "Isn''t he? He is my darling grandnephew."

    "You only have one grandnephew," reminded Rowan lightly.

    Su Feifeiughed awkwardly when she heard that and touched her nose. Then she turned to Song Xin''ai, "Professor Song, we meet again."

    "Yeah," said Song Xin''ai and purposely moved away from Xiang Hulin. She didn''t want to create trouble for her ex-husband by staying close. But how could her small movement or her thoughts escape Su Feifei''s eyes? She might be as casual about life as Mu Chenyan but they both were also very careful with things. Or else, they wouldn''t have been friends for so long.

    "Rowan, aren''t you gonna say hello?" Su Feifei turned to Rowan.

    Rowan sensibly moved over and said hello to Song Xin''ai since he had already met Xiang Hulin when he came. "Hello, Auntie!"

    "Why is she auntie and Brother Hulin is granduncle?" asked Su Feifei.

    "You think I want to call him granduncle? Isn''t it because he is your date? The seniority will be messed up. That''s why I told you to don''t let me call you grandaunt. It sounds wrong."

    "Why? I like being the elder," responded Su Feifei happily.

    "Rowan," Grandfather Xiang called out. "I heard you became good friends with my little prince."

    "Are you talking about, Fai Ge?"

    "Yes."

    "I think we really are good friends," said Rowan happily. "We have good chemistry. I quite like him."

    "How did you guess I am talking about him?"

    "Because he looks like a prince," replied Rowan. "And he can act like one too. But he insists on acting like a kid instead. Either way, he is very good."

    "Indeed, he is very good," agreed Grandfather Xiang. Then he had a pleasant conversation with Rowan while the others just stood aside not being able to even interfere. One could tell that Rowan was very good at coaxing old people because, from the moment he appeared, Grandfather Xiang couldn''t stop smiling at all.

    "Tsk, I could never have this talent,"mented Su Feifei. "My mother was always angry with me for being insensible."

    "It couldn''t be worse than me," muttered Song Xin''ai softly as she looked at thee interaction between Rowan and Grandfather Xiang seriously. She seemed to be studying it. And she had to say it was really a talent to be able to please old people. Sadly, she never had it and she was considered old now.

 Chapter 1120: No Fool

    Chapter 1120: No FoolAlthough Yue Yue was prepared to face Grandpa Zhai and Grandma Zhai, she still had been trying to procrastinate just like her son. It didn''t seem to work though since it was Raelle''s engagement and she couldn''t possibly stay on the sidelines on such an asion. If the Xiang family treated her like a family member, she had to do her best for them too.

    So, today, Yue Yue even forgot about her insecurities and didn''t mind that she couldn''t speak. Couldn''t she smile too? She''d use her gentle and sweet smile to the best of her ability. And did exactly that too.

    And that''s why when Grandpa Zhai and Grandma Zhai saw her, they almost didn''t recognize her. And no, it wasn''t because she was aged now. It was more so because her whole demeanor had changed from what they remembered. She exuded confidence and elegance like she never did before.

    It took them a moment to match this Yue Yue with the one in their memory.

    Yue Yue''s smile froze a little when she faced these elders. Not for any other reason but that she felt a little guilty for hiding from them thest time at the Xiang Manor. Although it had been months since that incident, she didn''t forget and she believed that they also knew about it by now.

    But at that time, she had her own reservations.

    Now, she didn''t think so much about it.

    So, she nodded to them as a greeting politely.

    "It''s really you,"mented Grandma Zhai softly and sighed. "I almost didn''t recognize you, Yue Yue."

    "That''s true," agreed Grandpa Zhai. "You''ve changed. But it''s a good change. You have no idea how happy I am to see you like this, little girl."

    Yue Yue smiled at that and wrote on her phone, ''I''m not a little girl anymore, Uncle.''

    Grandpa Zhaiughed at that, "Indeed. You''re not a little girl anymore. But in my memory, you had always been a little girl. However, it''s a fact that you''re now a mother. It''s not appropriate to call you a little girl."

    Yue Yue''s stiffened a little when she heard that.

    "I have to say though, I''m very upset that you actually hid from us," added Grandpa Zhai. "I kept feeling you seemed familiar but I never thought my intuition was right at that time. You hid very well behind Mu Chenyan."

    Yue Yue clutched her phone tightly before tying, ''If I won''t hide behind my best friend, who else would I hide behind?''

    "Oh, that''s well said," said Grandpa Zhai. "When you have a reliable, strong, and protective friend. You should lean on that friend when the time asks for it. There is nothing wrong with it. I''m just sad that you didn''t trust us enough."

    Yue Yue shook her head, ''It''s not about trust, Uncle Zhai. You should know how much I have respected you. I just thought since I have left my past behind, it''s better to let my past stay in the past.'' She smiled a little bitterly, ''In the end, I couldn''t escape from this past.''

    "It''s okay to face it," said Grandpa Zhai. "You can''t always run. It''s tiring and unfair to yourself. Some things should be faced rather than avoided. There is no need to think so much about it. Besides, you''re doing so well in your life. You have a career, you have an excellent family, and you have a remarkable son. It''s all your time to show off. Why run from the past? In fact, you should find everyone rted to your past and show them that you''re living better than them. Happier than them. Because I can assure you, that the ones who looked down on you, not everyone is having a good time right now."

    This wasn''t something she expected to hear from Grandpa Zhai. You must know he came from a schrly family who always followed old rules and looked down on people who always unted. And now, he was telling her to go and show off her happiness.

    "You don''t have to feel bad for anyone. You don''t owe anyone anything. If anything, I''d say, those people owe you a lot."

    ''I''m fine where I am, Uncle. I don''t want anything from anyone. Not even revenge.''

    Grandpa Zhai gave her a look as if he was very dissatisfied with her words, "How can you say that, Xiao Yue? Why are you still so nice? It''s not time to be nice."

    ''It''s been too long, Uncle.''

    "Revenge is best served cold."

    Yue Yueughed silently at that. ''Uncle Zhai, when did you be so fierce? You never loved violence.''

    "I''m against violence," said Grandpa Zhai. "But I am always up for debate. And let me tell you, the war of words can be fiercer and brutal than fist fights."

    "Okay. Stop giving her so many lectures on this," Grandma Zhai spoke up. "Yue Yue, you do what you want to do. Don''t listen to this old man. He knows nothing."

    "Why don''t I know nothing?"

    "If we put you in the museum, you''d be considered antique at this point, old man. So, stop with your opinions. No one likes to hear them."

    Yue Yue pursed his lips when she saw this old couple talking back and forth like this. It seemed to have taken her back in time for a moment. She still remembered the time, Zhai Kuijun first brought to her home to see his parents. She was still a young girl at that time. And this couple was always poking each other.

    Grandma Zhai loved to remind Grandpa Zhai that he was old while Grandpa Zhai was just not willing to take any of that.

    Grandma Zhai held Yue Yue''s hands in her aged and wrinkly hands as she said, "When I heard about you from Kuijun, I was so surprised at first and then I was so relieved to know that you had been fine all this time. Believe me, Auntie never forgot you or stopped worrying about you. I even went to pray for you."

    Yue Yue wanted to say something but her hands were held so she couldn''t even type on her phone.

    "But you have no idea, how much it hurt when I learned about your situation and how much you were hurt back then. Your voice..." Before she could continue, Grandpa Zhai held her arm to stop her from continuing this topic. He didn''t want this careless old woman to poke at Yue Yue''s sore points at this time.

    Although he knew it wasn''t her intention, it was still unavoidable that his old wife often got carried away in emotions. So, it couldn''t be helped. That''s why he had to keep an eye on his wife to stop her from saying anything she wasn''t supposed to say.

    "I''m no fool," said Grandma Zhai. "Do you think I want to hurt Yue Yue?" She looked at Yue Yue and said, "You know, right? I don''t mean to hurt you. I just mean it. Really. I cried for so long when I heard about your voice. It''s not like I don''t know how much you loved to sing. I know it''s hurtful but I can''t just stop talking about it like it never happened. Do you think auntie is wrong?"

    Yue Yue shook her head. She really didn''t think her voice was such a sore topic that people had to avoid it. Wouldn''t it be a shame if everyone forgot what her voice sounded like? She definitely wanted someone to remember her passion too. So, she was actually happy to see that Grandma Zhai didn''t avoid this topic in front of her.

    Grandma Zhai patted her head, "I can see you have be stronger. How can you be so fragile?"

    Yue Yue finally got a chance to type, ''Didn''t you always that I have quite some potential that even I haven''t figured out yet. I guess I have realized my potential now.''

    "It''s good to know that," said Grandma Zhai. "Auntie won''t lie to you, I did feel like I''de to talk to you to see your parents. But I changed my mind the moment Kuijun told me how your mother went to look for you. That woman had few cells from the beginning. It seems with age, they are getting worse." Seeing that she was still talking to Yue Yue about this, she stopped talking and bit her tongue as she said, "Sorry. I got carried away. I shouldn''t talk about your mother like this. She is still your mother."

    ''I don''t mind actually,'' responded Yue Yue indifferently. ''If you had said it a few days ago, I might have stopped you but I have let go whatever respect I had for her the day she came to me and sshed dirty water on my character once again. She made me question whether I am her daughter more than once in my life. But now, I don''t really care.''

    "Good. You shouldn''t care at all. Live your life well."

    ''I will.''

 Chapter 1121: Old & Forgetful

    Chapter 1121: Old & Forgetful"Ah! I feel like seeing my own daughter has grown up," said Grandma Zhai. "No, I should say this foolish daughter has learned to love herself."

    Yue Yue grinned at her words.

    "You, little one,e over to our house sometime," Grandpa Zhai spoke up. "Don''t be so shy with us."

    "Yes, yes," agreed Grandma Zhai. "You don''t have to worry about anything. I kicked out your parents. You cane anytime you want."

    ''You''d never kick anyone out of your house.''

    Grandma Zhai smiled at her sheepishly. "I wanted to do. But before I could take any action, your father took your mother from there. But I don''t think he knows about your mother''s visit to your ce. If he did, it wouldn''t be so peaceful. Hmmm... I should find some time to let him know."

    "Old woman, have you gone crazy? Or you want to watch the world burn at this age?" asked Grandpa Zhai.

    "Why not? That Yue Lan created so much mess in my family? Why can''t I watch the drama of her family? You can''t me me. I have been a peace-loving olddy, it''s that woman who made me so vengeful at this age."

    Yue Yue didn''t know what to say but she actually felt like Yue Lan had tortured Grandma Zhai a lot over the years. This realization made her very ufortable. After all, she brought that troublemaker into the Zhai family''s life. They would have been still peace-loving people if it wasn''t for Yue Lan.

    Not even for a second did she doubt Yue Lan''s ability to cause trouble. She had lived for over 18 years with that woman. How could she not know what she was capable of?

    In fact, that was a lie. She didn''t know what she was capable of until just recently. She always thought her sister was willful and a little more temperamental. Who knew she was vicious too? Yue Yue could only sigh over the fact that it took her too long to figure out who or what Yue Lan could do.

    Grandma Zhai patted Yue Yue''s head, "You don''t worry about it as I said. Even if that troublemakeres, I won''t let her touch you. I have had enough. I tolerated her enough for the sake of my grandson. Otherwise, I have long lost my patience with her." It seemed she felt like talking about Yue Lan really ruined her mood so she decided to not talk at all about her and changed the topic. "By the way, I heard about your son. Why don''t you introduce him to us?"

    ''Haven''t you met him already?'' asked Yue Yue.

    "That''s different. Even if we have met. You haven''t introduced us yet," said Grandma Zhai.

    "That''s true. That''s true. You haven''t introduced us. You have to tell him clearly that we are also his grandparents," added Grandpa Zhai immediately. He had been feeling sour from the moment he first saw Hyson''s interaction with his friend, Xiang Tianyu. So, he had to do something about it. Now, since Hyson was Yue Yue''s son, he had the right to be called a grandfather, right?

    Even if he didn''t, he had to insist that he did. Just to piss off his good friend!

    One could say these old men were truly stubborn as well. And childish since they also wanted to face and wanted to outdo each other even at this age.

    "I almost forgot. Yue, what about your hu-... Er! Old man, stop pinching me!" Grandma Zhai red at her husband who stopped her from continuing. But Grandpa Zhai didn''t mind this re at all. He just had to stop his careless wife once again. Because he knew she was gonna ask about Yue Yue''s husband and he wanted to really poke this old woman''s brain right now for that.

    Since no one had spoken about Yue Yue''s husband all this time, it was clear enough that there was no husband in the picture. Why was this old woman still insisting on bringing up this topic? Even if Yue Yue was broad-minded enough to not mind the question regarding her voice, he didn''t think Yue Yue would be thatfortable talking about this.

    Weren''t they having a good and pleasant conversation? Why ruin it by bringing up such topics?

    "Let''s stop chatting. Look over there. Isn''t that your painting association''s president? Do you wanna go over to say hello to that old man? I think he came with his wife. Let''s go over."

    "Huh?" Grandma Zhai looked reluctant.

    "What are you hesitating for? Xiao Yue is still here. If nothing else, we can just go to Old Xiang''s house to meet her. Can she run away?"

    Grandma Zhai finally agreed, "That''s true. Then, Yue Yue, you take care of yourself. I''ll see youter. Okay?"

    Yue Yue nodded obediently at her and smiled sweetly.

    Grandma Zhai was so happy to see her like this that her own lips stretched into a big smile. It couldn''t be helped actually. It''s been such a long time since she had seen such a well-behaved Yue Yue. She looked so docile and harmless right now.

    But Grandma Zhai was actually happy to see the reflection of her old Yue in the current one. However, it won''t change the fact that Yue Yue had changed. She wasn''t as docile and harmless as she used to be. But the purity in her sweet smile which instantly lifted her mood was still there.

    Now, she understood what kind of a mother could raise a sunny boy like Hyson.

    Who else but someone with a pure and sincere heart like Yue Yue?

    It''s such a shame that she couldn''t bring this girl home like she wanted to. Maybe her son was really not lucky. Oh, wait! No, her son was just blind. That''s it. She wasn''t willing to take any other excuse.

    "Didn''t I tell you to not mention Yue Yue''s husband?" asked Grandpa Zhai in a small voice when they walked quite some distance away from Yue Yue.

    "I... Forgot! You can''t me me though. I''m old. I am forgetful."

    "Lately, you''ve been pushing a lot of me on your old age."

    "I''m just reminding you and myself that we are old now. We should ept it too."

 Chapter 1122: [Bonus chapter] Want Me To Say It?

    Chapter 1122: [Bonus chapter] Want Me To Say It?Even though Grandpa Zhai stopped Grandma Zhai from speaking halfway, Yue Yue could still guess what she wanted to ask. It was nothing more than about her partner. Sigh! That was the most difficult question of her life.

    She was actually thankful that Grandpa Zhai didn''t let Grandma Zhai continue or it''d be very difficult for her to answer anything at that moment.

    "Where are you lost?"

    Yue Yue snapped back to reality and looked at Zhai Kuijun. Her expression was a bit strange when she looked at him. She had obviously been observing the change in him these past weeks. There was something she was actually unable to understand.

    But she had a subtle feeling about it though.

    Especially when she noticed how Zhai Kuijun persisted in looking for Hyson tonight, the subtle feeling became more and more clear.

    He knew!

    That was all she could think of right now. He definitely knew the truth.

    It''s just that he hadn''t spoken about it to her yet. So, was she finally going to bring up the secret that she thought she''d take to the grave with her? But it was already unfair to him. Was she gonna stay silent even now just because he was patient with her and didn''t even ask her a single question?

    That only would make her more ufortable.

    "What?" asked Zhai Kuijun when he saw her looking at him so intently. "Is something on my face?"

    She shook her head in response.

    "Then? Why so silent? You were clearly very happy talking with my parents. Must have had a pleasant conversation."

    ''We always had a pleasant conversation whenever we met.''

    "True," agreed Zhai Kuijun. "I really can''t remember a single incident when you had an unpleasant conversation with my parents," he sighed. "So, it''s not surprising that my mother always wished to make you her daughter-inw."

    Yue Yue was startled when he brought that up. It wasn''t actually a secret. Since Grandma Zhai had once held her hand and told her how sad she was that she wasn''t bing her daughter-inw. How could she forget that? She was both happy for her recognition and sad that it didn''t be true.

    ''Do you think that became the reason why they couldn''t ept Yue Lan?''

    Zhai Kuijun poked her forehead, "Stop wasting your brain energy. Anyway, your brain can''t think straight."

    Yue Yue gaped at him in disbelief. He was insulting her so tantly right now. Wasn''t that questioning her intelligence?

    ''Don''t question my intelligence! I raised an excellent son like Fai!''

    Zhai Kuijun instantly wilted since he couldn''t argue with that but he still had to make his point clear, "Am I wrong though? Think about it yourself. How many dumb choices you have made in life? That would make any one question your intelligence. In fact, I think Fai is right. His intelligence definitely isn''t inherited. He is just the unique piece."

    When he said that Yue Yue went silent for a moment and then she pulled him out of the banquet hall. Standing in a secluded corner, she faced him. ''Let''s talk.''

    "Okay," he agreed readily. "Let''s talk. What are we talking about though?"

    Yue Yue turned to look outside the ss windows at the bright lights that lit up the whole city and made it a whole different sight. She bit her lip for a while and her hand tightened on her phone. But in the end, she loosened her hand and typed, ''You know, right?''

    "What are you talking about?"

    She couldn''t believe he was deciding to y dumb at this moment with her. But she couldn''t even me him for that.

    ''About Fai.''

    "What about Fai?"

    Yue Yue pursed her lips, ''You really want me to say it.''

    "Yes," he replied.

    Yue Yue nodded her head and took a deep breath to calm herself. She gathered her courage and finally typed, ''You know that Fai is your son.''

    Zhai Kuijun smiled silly when he read that on her phone screen and didn''t respond for a while. He just continued to look at those words with a content look on his face. But there was a little regret in his eyes. It would have been even better if she had said the same sentence in her own voice.

    But unfortunately, you can''t have everything your way in this world. He should just be happy with what he got for now. This was already more than he expected.

    Just over a month or so ago, he didn''t even think that he''d find Yue Yue again. And who would have thought that he''d have another son? So, thinking about it, life gave him more than what he asked for. How could he stillin?

    "I know," he replied.

    Yue Yue had already guessed it but hearing it from him was different. It actually made her feel a little jittery.

    Seeing her hand shaking a little, he didn''t hesitate to hold her hand on his own and said soothingly, "Rx! It''s alright. Everything is fine. There is no need to be so nervous about this."

    Yue Yue wanted to respond but didn''t know how? Because she was also unsure why she was so jittery all of a sudden. She should have seen iting. How could secrets stay secrets forever?

    She suddenly didn''t know how to face him. She wanted this secret to really stay a secret. For no other reason but that she didn''t think it''d do any good to anyone. But it was only her wishful thinking. What she had to face, she had to eventually face it no matter what.

    Seeing her lowering her head and avoiding his eyes, Zhai Kuijun was actually a bit amused because he felt like she looked like a student who had done something wrong. He suddenly recalled that whenever she did anything wrong when she was young, she''d stand in front of him like this and look pitiful.

    It even made it difficult for him to me her or even berate her.

 Chapter 1123: Everything Is Fragrant

    Chapter 1123: Everything Is FragrantSeeing that he didn''t speak for so long, Yue Yue finally looked up at him. ''You won''t ask anything?''

    "I have nothing to ask," responded Zhai Kuijun. And he really felt like he had nothing to ask. What should he ask?

    Why she hid it from him?

    It''s not like he didn''t know the answer to that question himself. He understood this woman more than she thought he did. How could he not be familiar with her thought process? So, he wasn''t surprised at all that she hid it from him.

    In fact, it only made him understand why she hid from everyone so desperately. Not because she wasn''t ready to face her past. It was all because she wanted to hide Hyson from everyone rted to her past. And he didn''t think there was anything wrong with that thought. He couldn''t me her for it.

    Hyson was able to grow up safely all because she hid him.

    Otherwise, knowing Yue Lan, he could bet that she''d go to any lengths to get rid of Hyson.

    But of course, he knew that Yue Yue didn''t hide because of that. Because she never thought of Yue Lan as someone hopeless. She always had hope for that sister. Even if it was wishful.

    If there was really someone he had to ask, it''d be how it really happened and why he had no recollection of that incident. No matter how hard he tried, he just couldn''t remember it.

    "Yue, I don''t me you," he told her. "I have nothing to me you for. Why are you so nervous? There is no reason to be so nervous."

    ''You don''t think I deceived you?''

    "No, I don''t."

    ''Then do you think I drugged you and ran away with your sperm?''

    Zhai Kuijun coughed violently at her straightforward question but still shook his head, "No, I know you well. You don''t have that courage and you don''t know how to scheme." Seeing her pouting, he smiled and put his hand on her head as he added, "Thank you for raising such an amazing son. Thank you for raising him to be a person who could be a reason for others'' smiles. Thank you for your effort. And I''m sorry that you had to go through this all alone. I''m sorry that you had to go through so much suffering. I''m sorry for not being able to protect you."

    Yue Yue''s eyes reddened and slowly tears came out.

    He held her face in his hands and looked into her eyes, "Why are you crying? I''m saying, you''re awesome! I never knew my Yue could be so strong that she''d go through so much all on her own. That she''d take such heavy responsibilities on her small and weak shoulders. But I''m proud that you did an amazing job. You had always been a better person than me. You proved that you are a better parent too. I have a lot to learn in that department."

    Her tears fell harder and her whole body shook as she sobbed.

    "Sigh! If only you could stop crying at every turn."

    She red at him with her tear-filled eyes which made her look adorable and it made him smile at her.

    He dotingly rubbed her head, "Okay, okay. You cry. I''m here. What do you want? Do you want me to bring tissues? Water? Or lend my shoulder? Or all of the above?"

    As if on purpose, she rubbed her tears and wiped them on his suit.

    Zhai Kuijun was surprised at this childish act but he still continued to smile at her and let her do whatever she wanted.

    "Silly! I don''t even understand why are you crying. I didn''t even me you. I didn''t ask you anything. Why are you crying? Is it that bad that I know? Then how about I pretend like I don''t know, eh?"

    Yue Yue shook her head. She wiped her tears and calmed down her breathing.

    ''How is that possible? Since you already know, what''s the point of pretending?''

    "Then you really didn''t want me to know?"

    Yue Yue bit her lips, ''No.''

    "Why?" he asked. "What can I possibly do after knowing? Are you afraid that I will snatch him from you?"

    ''You aren''t that capable yet.''

    "Oh, thanks for your high evaluation," he said sarcastically. "But you''re right. I''m really not that capable. Besides, even if I was. Why would I snatch him from you? Am I such a fool?"

    ''You are a fool!''

    "I know that already. Don''t remind me of that."

    ''You already talked to him?''

    "Hm."

    ''What did he say?''

    "What do you think? You should know your son well. There is no way he''d ept me so easily. He won''t deny me as a father but he won''t call me a father either. He is particr about it. But I don''t deserve to be called a father by him either. I haven''t done anything for him in his whole life."

    ''Did he disrespect you?'' asked Yue Yue seriously as she even forgot to cry. She would never allow her son to be disrespectful to his father. Whether they acknowledged each other or not was a whole different matter.

    "How is that possible?" responded Zhai Kuijun. "He is good. He is good everywhere."

    Yue Yue gave him a disgusted look, ''At this point, you''d think even his sweat is fragrant. Right? Just because he is your son. Am I right?''

    Zhai Kuijun didn''t deny it. But he still added, "Even if I take off my filter, I still think he is good everywhere. He has been a bit indifferent to me but he has never been disrespectful. He is a good boy. I have liked him from the moment I first met him. I just felt like there was a connection between us. I just never thought it was such a connection." He took a handkerchief from his pocket and slowly wiped the tears from her face as he went on, "I told you, you raised a good son. You should be proud of yourself. Just like he is very proud of whatever he is."

 Chapter 1124: Moon & Me

    Chapter 1124: Moon & MeAfter a busy night, Raelle actually realized what happiness was when she was told that she was free to leave. She wanted to fly away from there. Spending so much time in the crowd was already her limit. She didn''t think she could do it.

    So, she was actually re-evaluating their wedding n and wondering if it was really okay to have a grand wedding. This was just an engagement. What if the wedding is more tiring? What would she do then?

    "What''s on your mind?" asked Shui Xian when he noticed that her eyes weren''t focused as they walked. And she was walking with him correctly only because she held his arm and he was practically leading her around.

    "I am thinking about whether we should have a grand wedding or do it simply," Raelle shared her thoughts with him clearly.

    "Why did you suddenly think of this?" Before she could answer, he answered his own question, "It must be because of tonight''s events. Was it tiring? Or ufortable?"

    "Maybe both," replied Raelle.

    "Then you think about it seriously," he told her as he held up her hand and kissed the back of her hand. "I''m fine with anything you decide. We can go for a simple wedding too since we already had a grand engagement. So, making our wedding a private and intimate affair is not a bad idea."

    "Don''t you want to show off anymore?" she asked because she understood his desire to actually have a grand wedding. Wasn''t he nning it all along?

    "I have shown off enough tonight," said Shui Xian. "In fact, I''m already very satisfied. This also made me realize that calling so many people is actually not a good idea. So many people stare at my wife. Besides, it''s our wedding. We can just keep it between us. It''s only because I want to see you in a wedding dress that I''m insisting on this wedding ceremony or else, there is no need for affirmation from people. Without this affirmation, you''d still be my wife. Legally wedded wife. People can question our rtionship, but they can''t possibly question our wedding booklet."

    "Then let me think some more about it," said Raelle. She didn''t immediately tell him the decision because she hadn''te to a final decision yet. She was only thinking about it for now. They couldn''t rush this. She knew about Mu Chenyan''s arrangements too and Shui Xian always shared all of his ns too. So, it was kind of difficult to decide about this.

    After all, they were nning the wedding for months while this engagement was just impromptu just like her proposal which led to this engagement banquet.

    "Think," said Shui Xian. "I''m here with you."

    "Of course, I know that," was Raelle''s response.

    He took her to the presidential suite that was prepared for them and Raelle first went to change her dress. She wanted to freshen up. But before she could do that, Shui Xian held her hand and pulled her to the balcony.

    Raelle was left looking at him, "What? I want to change."

    "We''ll do that in a while," he said. "Come and look at the moon with me."

    "Why?" she asked.

    "Because it''s beautiful tonight," said Shui Xian. "Look." He pulled her over and took her in his arms as he ced his chin on her shoulder which he had gotten used to.

    "It''s round," said Raelle. "Just like any other full moon night."

    "Tsk. So unromantic," sighed Shui Xian. "Don''t spoil the mood. Just see the moon with me."

    Raelle didn''t say anything and just rxed her body in his arms. Her body leaned against his chestfortably and she didn''t care about what he was on about. Wasn''t it just watching the moon with him? She had done plenty of time-wasting things since she married him. One more or one less won''t make much of a difference.

    Besides, she might be unromantic and couldn''t find this moon beautiful but she did like his warm embrace.

    "Aren''t we going home?" she asked. "I thought we''d go home after changing."

    "No," he responded. "Let''s just stay here tonight. We are rarely out of the house like this. Besides, I think most of the guests would choose to stay tonight."

    "Fine," said Raelle.

    "Looking at the moon, I feel reassured," started Shui Xian.

    "Why?" asked Raelle.

    "Because the same moon has seen you growing up over the years where I couldn''t see you."

    Raelle tilted her head to look up at him, "That''s..."

    "Don''t stop me. I just want to be that cheesy."

    "Okay," she responded and went silent.

    Shui Xian kissed her earlobe and nuzzled as he closed his eyes contently. Oh, how he was enjoying this moment. The slow breeze blowing, this dark night with the bright moon shining on them. How beautiful was this night?

    Or perhaps, the night was the same. It was the feeling in his heart that made the difference. Since he was happy, everything around him seemed beautiful to him right now.

    "How about we make a tradition of moon watching?"

    "How about a no?"

    "You won''t do this much for me?"

    "Don''t look so pitiful. I won''t fall for it."

    "I''m kidding. It''s not like I can''t drag you to watch the moon whenever I want."

    Raelle didn''t argue about that because she knew she couldn''t. Even if she insisted, she won''t, she''d still follow him once he asked for it. That''s how much he was able to control her. It''d be right to say that he had a hold on her heart firmly and she was willing to just follow him which never happened before.

    "Do you know the difference between the moon and me?"

    "What now?"

    "The moon can''t have you but I can hug you in my arms."

    "Hubby, you are going crazy."

    "I was always crazy for you."

    "That wasn''t your opinion when we first met."

    "I was blind back then," Shui Xian epted it without any hesitation. "But once I recovered, I have always been crazy for you."

 Chapter 1125: [Bonus chapter] Rose Petal Bath

    Chapter 1125: [Bonus chapter] Rose Petal Bath"Do you have more to say, Mr. Husband? Why don''t you just say it while we have time?"

    Shui Xian took her words seriously and tapped his chin as he thought about it long and hard before he nodded. He turned her around and looked at her face with a bright smile. He held her face in his hands as they faced each other and said, "As the moon shines on this earth to illuminate the way for people in the dark, you''re my guiding light. You shine with your own ethereal light straight into my heart. And you illuminated my world with your grace and mysteries."

    Raelle seemed to be listening to him with relish and said, "Oh? Why are you so obsessed with the moon tonight?"

    "It''s beyond my control," said Shui Xian. "The more I look at the moon, the more it''s reminding me of you. It''s like you and the moon are inseparable."

    "Leave the moon alone, it has a more important job to do."

    "What?" he asked curiously.

    "To shine on the earth and make it less dark for the people."

    "Oh."

    "It has a purpose in life to give people hope. All of us see the same moon but not all of us associate the moon with the same thing. Some associate it with the person they love the most like you just did. Some associate it with beauty. Some find it a way to dream of a world they haven''t seen before. Some just see it as a symbol of nature and some like me find it just like a mirror that reflects the sunlight to us in a different way. Because scientifically, that''s what it does."

    Shui Xian''s smile dropped a little as he felt like his wife was ruining the mood by saying this again. Even if she was right.

    Raelle pinched his cheek as she added, "Don''t be upset. What I mean is that we just all see the same thing but have different perceptions of the same thing. The same rice nurtures different kinds of people. Good and bad. The same moon can be different things to people. A different kind of hope and I realized, sometimes it can also be people''spanion."

    "That''s true," agreed Shui Xian. He suddenly shook his head, "Okay. Stop swaying me with your words. I''ll leave the moon away. I was just trying topliment my wife. How did we get here from that?"

    "I don''t know."

    "Don''t act so innocent. You''re the reason we got distracted."

    "Okay. I did it on purpose. Who told you to keepplimenting me? Since we met you had been doing it. I don''t wanna hear thesepliments."

    He rubbed the side of her head saying, "In a gown of elegance and adorned with rare jewels, you outshine them all with your inner beauty and captivating spirit. How can I stopplimenting?"

    "Here we go again," said Raelle and pulled away from him. "I''m leaving."

    Shui Xian held her hand to stop her and said, "Don''t leave me."

    "Oh? So, why don''t you join me?"

    "Huh?"

    Raelle walked over and touched the button of his shirt with her nail. She skillfully opened the button exposing his chest and moved her finger teasingly on his skin as she said, "You are wee to join me in the bathtub." Shui Xian gulped and his breath hitched. Raelle didn''t stop there and continued unbuttoning his shirt slowly as she added, "Didn''t you just say I''m more beautiful than the moon? Then why are you wasting time here watching the moon? Isn''t it fun to watch me instead? In the bathtub filled with rose petals. Just you and me."

    "Stop!" said Shui Xian. "I''m sold! Let''s go!"

    With that, he leaned down and picked her off the floor. Raelle instinctively wrapped her arms around his neck and looked at him.

    "I told you to stop teasing me. But you kept doing it all night. You really think I''m a monk and won''t get back at you."

    Raelle looked very innocent as she said, "When did I say that? Am I not the one who really wants you to get back at me?"

    Shui Xian had nothing to say about that since that was true. She was more eager for him to get back at her than he was.

    He walked into the bathroom and made her sit on the chair inside while he went to open the tab to fill up the tub. He looked at the rose petals ced on the huge tray and raised his brow. It seemed Raelle wasn''t just saying it, this bath was really gonna be filled with rose petals.

    He went back to Raelle''s side and helped her take off the gown. He even slowly and patiently took off the jewelry that she wore.

    "I have to take off the makeup," reminded Raelle.

    "Yes, I know," he said and went to get the makeup remover wipes. Then came back to wipe her makeup carefully. He practically did it all himself. He didn''t let her move. She just had to sit and he''d just serve her without aint. He was more than happy to serve his wife right now.

    He even helped her unbind her hair.

    "It''s tooplicated and time-consuming, isn''t it?" she asked.

    Shui Xian leaned down and kissed her deeply. And when her hands were about to entangle him, he pulled away and smiled at her, "Be patient. Let me do it for you."

    "Be fast."

    "I thought my wife was the most patient person in the world."

    "Who told you toe into my life and take my patience away? I''m still very patient as long as it doesn''t involve you."

    Shui Xianughed at that and hugged her up as he took her to the bathtub. "Then you enjoy your rose petal bath."

    "Don''t even dare to think about escaping," she said.

    "I''m still here," he said. "Let me take off my clothes, okay?"

    "Oh."

 Chapter 1126: Not Up To You

    Chapter 1126: Not Up To YouWhile Raelle and Shui Xian were enjoying their bath, there was a lot happening outside. The first incident to mention would be how Mu Chenyan dragged Xiang Weimin to a room where everyone from the family was present apart from Raelle.

    There was Grandfather Xiang, Xiang Hulin, Xiang Wai, and even Song Xin''ai. Since it involved her son, she was also called over to talk about it.

    "What''s going on here?" asked Xiang Weimin. "Are we having some secret meeting?"

    "Stand right there," said Mu Chenyan as she made him stand in front of all of them as if he was on trial. In fact, he was yet to know that this was really a trial. He was in trouble. He was in big trouble right now and if he answered a single question wrongly, he''d be convicted too!

    Xiang Weimin looked at the unfriendly gazes of his family members and felt like he was under a lot of pressure right now. How to deal with it though? He wasn''t sure.

    He was already a bit reluctant and sad when he said goodbye to Justin but who knew, right after, his aunt would get hold of him and would bring him here? Is it okay to not even let him be sad for a moment?

    "You should be ashamed of yourself," started Xiang Hulin.

    "Hulin," called out Grandfather Xiang. "There is no need for you to start." Then he looked at Mu Chenyan, "You, start!"

    Mu Chenyan cleared her throat and started, "Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, today we gather here to seek justice in the case of Family versus Xiang Weimin. The evidence presented to you shows that Lieutenant Colonel Xiang Weimin is blind."

    Xiang Wai pursed her lips trying hard to suppress herughter. She didn''t think her aunt would pull this move. This was so unexpected. But also very entertaining. She just had to be a witness to this historic scene. Where else would she get a chance to see her brother standing on trial against the whole family?

    "The defendant knowingly or unknowingly left the seed of our Xiang family to wander around in this world without a home and a family."

    Xiang Weimin raised his hand, "Excuse me! But what are we really doing?"

    "Objection overruled!"

    Grandfather Xiang almost facepalmed himself at Mu Chenyan''s drama, "Chenyan, get to the point."

    "But I was just starting to have fun," said Mu Chenyan but still stopped her antics and looked at Xiang Weimin. "Dear nephew, did you have a rtionship with a woman over the years?"

    Xiang Weimin frowned and said, "Aunt, I told you I never dated anyone."

    "Dating someone is different. I said have you had a physical rtionship with anyone?"

    "I answered that to you before as well. It was just one night with one woman. I don''t know who she even really was except that she told me her name was Jennie."

    "I know you said it all. But the family didn''t hear it. They should also hear your point of you. Unless you''re in a hurry to get a beating."

    Xiang Weimin coughed, "Then ask. I''ll just answer everything you ask."

    "How did you have that rtionship with that woman named Jennie?"

    "I was sent to join the rescue team during the flood. That''s where I got injured while saving a pregnant woman. Because of the injury, I was temporarily sent to the health center. That''s where I first time met her. You can say we had a good conversation since she was very patient with everyone and had a sweet smile giving everyone hope in that cloudy weather. Over the days, we talked a few times and it was considered a pleasant time. On the night their volunteer team was about to leave, we had a bonfire and well, one thing led to another and we ended up sleeping together. Anything else?"

    He really didn''t think one day at the age of 30, he''d have to stand before his whole family to give details about his rtionship with a woman. A very brief rtionship and a rtionship he didn''t really want to think about.

    Everyone in the room shared a look before Song Xin''ai asked, "What happened after that? You never met her again?"

    "No," answered Xiang Weimi unnaturally.

    "You didn''t look for her?"

    "Why should I?" he asked.

    "So, you are really that irresponsible? You slept with someone and then ran away?" asked Xiang Hulin.

    Xiang Weimin his father a look, "Em... Technically, she was the one who left the next day. It has nothing to do with me."

    "But you still let her go."

    "Why should I stop her? We didn''t have such good feelings."

    "But you slept with her!"

    "Dad, what age are you living in?"

    Grandfather Xiang raised his hand to stop his son again. Then he asked himself, "From what I know about you, there must be a reason why you didn''t look for her. My dear grandson, why don''t you tell me the reason?"

    Xiang Weimin closed his eyes, not knowing how he gave himself away. Tsk. Really, old ginger was spicier. He could hide from everyone except for his grandfather.

    "Do we have to have this conversation?"

    "Unless you don''t want your son, we do have to have this conversation."

    Xiang Weimin stiffened, "What? What son? I don''t have a son."

    "But you do, my dear nephew," said Mu Chenyan. "You don''t only have a son. Your son is old enough to go and buy soy sauce. And calcting the dates and all, it happened during the time you were on the rescue mission. Not only that, but the DNA also matches."

    "Did shee to look for you guys with a son?"

    "No," replied Mu Chenyan while everyone else shook their heads.

    "What''s going on?"

    "Why don''t you start first? We''ll exinter."

    "The reason why I didn''t look for her was... Actually, aftering from there. I once came to see Mom and did see her onest time. But she told me that she only got close to me because of my maternal family''s orders. They wanted to send a woman by my side to control me. It was my maternal aunt -inw''s order. Well, whatever it was, it only disgusted me. So, I didn''t bother to pay attention to her again."

    "You didn''t even question what she said?"

    "I knew she was lying," replied Xiang Weimin. "No. Not exactly. She wasn''t lyingpletely either. Mom, your sister-inw indeed found someone for me. It wasn''t a day or two that she was up to such means. I don''t know how she knew about it but I know she wasn''t the one your sister-inw looked for. She lied to me clearly because she wanted to keep a distance from me. So, why should I look for her again?"

    "So, she didn''t tell you she was pregnant?"

    "Nope," answered Xiang Weimin. Then he looked at all the faces of his family around him and said, "Do you all have such little faith in me? Am I really so irresponsible in your eyes that I won''t even take responsibility for my own child? But to do that, I have to know something, no? Or else, I am not a irvoyant."

    Everyone looked away one by one.

    "You all hurt me. I want to go and find my little sister," said Xiang Weimin. "There is no way, Raelle would be one of your guys and hurt me like this."

    "Stop ying the act of being pitiful. It''s not up to you right now," said Xiang Hulin. "This is a serious matter. No matter how much we trust you, we still have to know. After all, it''s our family''s child who has been wandering out there for so long."

    "Who is my son?" asked Xiang Weimin. "Hm?" When he didn''t hear the answer, he suddenly thought of a face, "Oh, it''s Justin. Isn''t it? That exins the intimacy. That exins everything." Then he frowned to himself, "But his mother isn''t..."

    "Why is your brain active all of a sudden?" asked Xiang Wai. "I thought you were blind until now."

    "I''m not blind," answered Xiang Weimin. "Even if I could see the simrity, I thought it was just simrity. How could I link him to myself so inexplicably? You all linked him to me because you all didn''t trust me at all. In your hearts, I was just that kind of a bastard. Tsk. I''m so disappointed."

    Xiang Wai coughed, "But Ge, you can''t me us, okay?"

    "I can and I will," answered Xiang Weimin. "Can I sit down now? I have to digest this news?"

    "You look way too calm already, Ge," Xiang Wai pointed out.

    "Or else? Should I jump? I''m so old. Why should I be overreacting now?"

    "Indeed, you''re the one who is level-headed. You are good, Ge!"

    Xiang Weimin sat down and rubbed his forehead, "You didn''t tell me yet. What happened to Justin''s mother?"

    "She is no more," answered Mu Chenyan. "The information I found is exactly the same as you told me. Nothing more, nothing less. And that''s the weirdest part, I didn''t find anything extra about this woman whom you knew as Jennie and your mother knew as Chi Xirui."

 Chapter 1127: Different From Others

    Chapter 1127: Different From Others"I thought we were gonna solve the mystery," said Xiang Wai. She really thought they gathered to solve the mystery of Justin''s mother. But clearly, that wasn''t the case.

    "We are here to enlighten your brother," replied Mu Chenyan.

    "Are you sure, aunt? Are you sure it''s not because you couldn''t find anything rted to Justin''s birth mother?"

    Mu Chenyan looked away from her niece. She didn''t want to admit that that was the case! She was already mad enough at the moment that even after using all her connections, she couldn''t find information about a girl.

    Chi Xirui''s information from the school said that she was from a remote vige. And in truth, it turned out that was somewhat true! When Mu Chenyan''s people went to that mountainous vige to get information, some people did recognize the picture of Chi Xirui and that''s how they learned that Chi Xirui once came to that vige just to look for her maternal grandparents.

    Because those maternal grandparents had once sold her mother to human traffickers. So, she wanted toe and find those people and see how life treated them. And she not only saw, she even smashed the house of her maternal grandparents where her mother''s brothers and their families lived.

    Even with the help of the whole vige, they couldn''t stop her from smashing things and people because she also brought people with her. And she brought trained people. How could those vigers be her opponent?

    "This is the only new discovery I had in these days," told Mu Chenyan. "And as you know, it''s difficult to find information from the time when her mother was actually sold. She was very young when she was sold and after that, where those human traffickers took her is difficult to find out. It''s like looking for a needle at the bottom of the ocean. So, since we can''t find where her mother was taken, we can''t find who Chi Xirui really was either. I have never seen a moreplicated case than this."

    "Why are you so obsessed with looking then?" asked Xiang Weimin. "Isn''t it enough what you know? Or is it necessary for you to find the bloodline of Justin''s mother?"

    "What nonsense are you talking about, boy?" asked Xiang Hulin angrily. "That''s not what Chenchen''s intention is. She is doing it for you. After all, you are an Air Force officer and that woman''s origin ispletely a mystery. It can really affect your career."

    "I don''t care," replied Xiang Weimin. "At the moment, I think our family is more than happy to know that we have a new generation of the Xiang family. You all are looking forward to bringing Justin home and recognizing his ancestors or else you all won''t be looking at me with so much hostility tonight." No one denied his words so he went on, "But you all are as smart as I am or even more than I am except for you, Wai. Lose the smile."

    Xiang Wai''s upturned lips immediately turned down when she heard that. She was so happy for a moment that her brother included her in the ranks of the smart people in the family but broke her wishful thinking instantly. She could only sigh and ept the truth since she was really not a match for even a single person in this room.

    What a tragedy for her to be born into a family of geniuses.

    "Since you all are smart, you already know it won''t be easy to bring Justin home," Xiang Weimin went on ignoring the mood of his sister. "His mother didn''t look for us. She gave her custody to someone else. Justin doesn''t know any of us. He is only 5. Is it alright to make him choose at this young age? Isn''t it unfair to him to make choices for her him when he isn''t capable of making his own choices?"

    No matter how they all wanted to bring Justin to the home, they couldn''t really force it either. Their family would never do such a thing to a child. They are people who even asked about Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin''s choices when their parents got divorced. The only person who didn''t make a choice was actually Raelle who was still a newborn baby and couldn''t make her choices.

    Xiang Weimin knew that Justin liked him a lot and was actually unusually attached to him within a short time but it won''t change the fact that Tang Hebe raised him for years and had been with him through everything. Even with his differences, she didn''t try to change him but to ept him and understand him. He couldn''t deny the efforts and hard work of Tang Hebe. He couldn''t be cruel and go to snatch his son just because they were blood rted.

    In their family, blood rtions never took the top spot.

    "Then let''s take it slow," said Song Xin''ai. "From my observation tonight, Justin likes you a lot and is very close to you. And this all happened within a very short time. It shows that you both as father and son has a connection. You actually don''t have to use this connection. You should go to Tang Hebe and have a talk with her. Tell her everything truthfully ande to a middle ground."

    "Yes," agreed Grandfather Xiang with Song Xin''ai''s words. "We don''t have to snatch the child from Tang Hebe. Although she has made some impulsive choices in her life, she isn''t a bad child either. She isn''t unreasonable either. She''d be scared that you want to snatch Justin from her. After all, Raelle said Justin is her life. Her only hope to be sane right now."

    "Then how about we ask her opinion?" suggested Mu Chenyan. "We can tell her that we just want Justin to recognize his rtives. We don''t actually have to take him from her. We just want him to have a father and not feel like he is different from others."

 Chapter 1128: [Bonus chapter] Appointment

    Chapter 1128: [Bonus chapter] AppointmentXiang Weimin looked at his family members who were discussing it very seriously and couldn''t help smiling to himself. Why won''t he smile? This was his family.

    Not even one person asked him to go and take his son back forcefully. In fact, if they want, there is no way Tang Hebe is a match for their family. She won''t even be able to win. Because there aren''t that many people who can win against their Xiang family.

    Especially since Tang Hebe is just alone.

    But this family still wanted to reason with her and even before telling Justin anything, they wanted to ask for Tang Hebe''s opinion. And he actually didn''t doubt for a moment that if Tang Hebe didn''t ept him as Justin''s father, these people would definitely not disturb her life and keep the status quo as it was.

    What a weird family!

    "What do you think, Ge?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "I''d do whatever you guys decide," said Xiang Weimin.

    "When did this guy be so obedient all of a sudden?"

    "Anyway, it''s good," said Mu Chenyan. "Nephew, you be prepared. Tomorrow, we''ll talk to Tang Hebe."

    "No," came Xiang Hulin.

    "You don''t agree, Ge?"

    "That''s not what I mean," said Xiang Hulin. "What I mean is that only Weimin will go to Miss Tang to talk about this. All of us don''t have to get involved for now. If we all went to her, we''ll scare her. Have you all looked in the mirrortely, each one of us is enough to make people feel oppressed. Wouldn''t it be like we are pushing her too hard? No matter how mature she has gotten, it won''t change the fact that she is still an insecure little girl. Let''s not be too harsh to her. We are not bullies."

    "True. We are not bullies," agreed Mu Chenyan and Xiang Wai simultaneously.

    And this made the rest of them look at the two of them at the same time too. What could they say? Anyone in the family could say they weren''t bullies except for this two aunt and niece.

    "What? Don''t stare at us. We are really not bullies," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Yes, don''t wrong us," added Xiang Wai.

    "As if anyone can wrong you two,"mented Xiang Hulin.

    "I think Hulin is right. Let Weimin go first. And you silent gourd," Grandfather Xiang turned to his grandson. "Don''t keep such a scary face in front of the little girl. Don''t make her feel like you''re there for a fight. Just talk calmly."

    "I have a suggestion," Song Xin''ai spoke up.

    "What is it, sister Xin?" asked Mu Chenyan with a smile.

    "How about sending Raelle with Weimin?" suggested Song Xin''ai. "First of all, Raelle is the person most familiar with Justin''s mother. And if it wasn''t for her, we wouldn''t even find Justin. Secondly, there is no one who is better at talking than Raelle. Weimin can''t talk. I don''t need to tell you all this. You all know that Weimin isn''t good with words."

    "Thanks, mom!"

    "You''re wee, son!"

    Xiang Weimin shook his head at that.

    "I also agree with sister Xin," said Mu Chenyan. "I think it''s good to let Raelle take the lead. There is no better person than her."

    "I also agree with this," said Grandfather Xiang since he also felt it would be a lost cause if he let Xiang Weimin take the lead.

    And the same was Xiang Hulin''s thought who also knew his son well.

    Since everyone agreed, they decided to talk to Raelle in the morning.

    "Now, can we leave?" asked Xiang Wai. "I want to sleep."

    "I also have to leave," said Song Xin''ai.

    "Mom, just stay here tonight," said Xiang Weimin. "You should also stay to know the result of what happens tomorrow."

    Since everything was decided, they all left to get back to their own rooms and left Grandfather Xiang''s room to let him rest.

    Mu Chenyan was still thinking about all of this when she came across Xia Zhao who stood outside Raelle''s suite and before he could ring the bell, she called out to him, "What are you doing, Zhao?"

    Xia Zhao looked at her, "I''m looking for Raelle."

    "Do you understand anything?" asked Mu Chenyan. "How can you disturb my Elle at this time? Let them rest!"

    "But we had an appointment," told Xia Zhao.

    Mu Chenyan raised her brow at him, "What did you say? You had an appointment with my Elle?"

    "Yes," answered Xia Zhao. "She said we''ll talk after the engagement banquet. But she didn''te so I had toe to look for her instead."

    "Do you understand anything?" asked Mu Chenyan. "How can you disturb my Elle at this time? Let them rest!"

    "But we had an appointment," told Xia Zhao.

    Mu Chenyan raised her brow at him, "What did you say? You had an appointment with my Elle?"

    "Yes," answered Xia Zhao. "She said we''ll talk after the engagement banquet. But she didn''te so I had toe to look for her instead."

    "Since she didn''te to look for you, it means she isn''t gonnae. Don''t disturb them tonight. How can you not understand that tonight she couldn''t possibly be in the mood to see you? Isn''t it better for her to spend that time with her husband?"

    "Thanks for letting me know," he said. "As if you have a lot of experience."

    "I haven''t eaten pigeon doesn''t mean I haven''t seen it flying before."

    "Huh? Does that go like that?"

    "You understood the point?"

    "Yeah."

    "Isn''t that enough? Why focus on my words?" Mu Chenyan rolled her eyes at him in dissatisfaction. Thinking of something, she asked, "Why do you have an appointment in my Elle?"

    Xia Zhao was subconsciously about to share it with her but stopped himself. He was also someone who habitually wanted to tell her the truth about everything but he couldn''t go against his principles either. Sie Raelle looked for him bypassing Mu Chenyan, that meant she didn''t want anyone to know about it. Andthat also meant, he had to keep silent about it for now.

 Chapter 1129: Secret

    Chapter 1129: Secret"It''s a secret," told Xia Zhao and walked away.

    Mu Chenyan stared at his attitude and got red up. She ran after him and kept chattering, "What do you mean by it''s a secret? How can it be a secret? And why do you even have secrets with my Elle? Who the hell are you?"

    "And why can''t I have secrets with her? Who are you to stop me?" he retorted but didn''t stop at all.

    Mu Chenyan gaped at him in disbelief. She couldn''t believe that this man actually asked her who she was to stop him. Not even for a minute did she think about how she actually had no right to stop him or disrupt his private life.

    "You, stop for me right there!"

    Xia Zhao didn''t listen and continued to walk. He actually wanted to stop but someone told him that if he didn''t stop, she''d follow him instead. And he was actually curious about it too. He wanted to see if she''d really follow him like he was told.

    And for now, it seemed his nephew was really good at this because Mu Chenyan was indeed following him. She followed him from the floor where Raelle''s presidential suite was to the top floor where his penthouse was.

    He punched in the password with Mu Chenyan''s voice in the background.

    "Why are you ignoring me? No! How dare you ignore me?" asked Mu Chenyan feeling extremely frustrated. She was already mad at the fact that she couldn''t figure out the real background of Chi Xirui even though she bragged so much in front of Raelle. How was she supposed to face her Elle now?

    And now even this man was ignoring her?

    "XIA ZHAO!!!"

    "Yes?" replied Xia Zhao calmly in contrast to her rage. He opened the door and said, "Come inside. Don''t stand here and shout. Even though there is no one on this floor. There are still security cameras and they can definitely see you. It won''t look good if the security sees you making a scene at my door."

    "Did you just say I''m making a scene here?" Mu Chenyan entered the penthouse after him without any care and went to push him.

    He was like a mountain that didn''t even flinch with her push and kept walking.

    "Look at me and talk!" said Mu Chenyan. "Stop looking away from me."

    "You have been looking away from me for years and I didn''tin? Why are you so getting so worked up so soon?"

    "Who asked you to ignore me? That''s not allowed!"

    "Who said that?" he questioned.

    "I did!" she retorted. "You can''t ignore me. You can''t! Just can''t!"

    "Just give me a reason why?"

    "There is no need for a reason for everything," she reasoned.

    "You''re just acting like a rascal now!"

    "I was always a brat!" she said without any shame. "And you are not supposed toin about that. Who asked you to say I''m making a scene? Do I make a scene?"

    "Didn''t you?" asked Xia Zhao.

    "You!" Mu Chenyan made a face at him looking like she was wronged but Xia Zhao didn''t buy this act since he was too used to it. He thought she''d y a new act since they were really old for this act now but it seemed no matter what age, she was still gonna y this game with him.

    "Yanzi! Why are you following me?"

    "Because you keep ignoring me!"

    "You also have done the same in the past."

    "That''s me!"

    "And if you''re unreasonable it''s allowed?"

    "Everything is allowed when ites to me."

    "Why?"

    "Because you said so!" said Mu Chenyan. "You said no matter how unreasonable I will be, you won''t be tired of it. You won''t be annoyed too. Liar! You actually lied to me."

    "Yanzi..." Xia Zhao looked very helpless when he called out her name.

    His sharp ears heard a muffled sound and then he tilted his head to look towards the lounge area. A figure was crawling out from behind the sofa and moving towards the balcony.

    He facepalmed and called out, "Ru, there is a door on the other side."

    Mu Chenyan frowned and followed his eyes to look at that figure. She looked at that person dressed in all ck as he crawled slowly on the floor towards the balcony. Mu Chenyan was surprised because she didn''t even feel the presence of another person there.

    But now she actually was seeing a living person here.

    Young Master Ru stopped and slowly stood up as he swatted his clothes and looked at Xia Zhao and Mu Chenyan. He was asked to spend the night here by his own uncle and now, he brought his future aunt here. He didn''t want to disturb so he decided to slowly find his way out.

    Tsk. He got caught by his uncle. What a shame or else, he''d have run away by now.

    "You have a thief in the house!" said Mu Chenyan.

    "The only thing I steal is hearts," replied Ru as he turned around.

    Xia Zhao rolled his eyes at that remark and said, "That''s my nephew." He didn''t exin anything else. He didn''t have the right to say anything more about Ru''s identity so he refrained from doing so. His authority in the n wasn''t as high as Ru''s. Even if he was the elder, he couldn''t make decisions for Ru.

    "Nephew?" repeated Mu Chenyan. "Why haven''t I seen him before?"

    "He is a mysterious existence in our n," said Xia Zhao. "The less you know about him the better."

    "True," agreed Ru. "Well, since I''m already caught." He walked over and extended his hand, "Hi, I''m Young Master Ru. It''s nice to finally meet you in person, Miss Mu Chenyan."

    "You know me?"

    "Aren''t you a famous figure?"

    "Isn''t it more like I''m notorious?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "Whoever says that is only jealous of your poprity."

    Mu Chenyan thought about it and felt like that was right. After all, she was so good. How can people say she was notorious? It must be that they were jealous of her. Well, it''s not like there had been a shortage of people who had been jealous of her. She also knew that most of her deeds outside were exaggerated over the years by people who didn''t like her.

    But she never really cared about it.

    Mu Chenyan held Ru''s hand and smiled at her, "It''s nice to meet you too." When Ru smiled lopsidedly, Mu Chenyan''s brows knitted up slightly in thought. "I feel like I''ve seen you somewhere before. But these dazzling eyes. I''m sure I wouldn''t have forgotten so easily if we had really met. So, I''m confused."

    Xia Zhao gave a look to Ru who looked back at him and then avoided his uncle''s eyes. There was no way he was gonna exin why Mu Chenyan found him familiar at the moment. Even though Ru knew very well why that was so.

    But if Ru exined that matter, it''d expose himself.

    It was better to stay silent and stay out of it and pretend to be dumb.

    "Really? I also think most people can''t forget my eyes."

    "Narcissist,"mented Xia Zhao.

    "Everybody knows that," said Ru. "Let''s cut this meeting short. I should take my leave since I believe you both have a lot to say. I won''t disturb you guys anymore."

    Again, he walked towards the balcony making Xia Zhao look at his nephew with aplicated gaze. "Ru, you''ve already been found. You don''t have to escape from the balcony anymore."

    "You''re gonna leave through the balcony?" asked Mu Chenyan weirdly. "Is there a secret passage there?"

    "No," responded Ru. "The secret passage is in the study and the master bedroom."

    "How do you know that?" asked Xia Zhao since it was the first time he called this nephew to this penthouse.

    "I am very talented," replied Ru. "Uncle, you really underestimate my talent sometimes."

    "I really do," said Xia Zhao. "Anyway, use the door. There is no reason to use the balcony from the penthouse."

    Then Ru looked at Mu Chenyan, "Don''t worry, I''m not gonna jump down. I''m gonna climb up instead. It''s very safe. Isn''t there a windingdder leading up to the rooftop?"

    "Rooftop? What are you gonna do there?"

    "Star gazing," replied Ru. "Wanna join, Uncle?"

    "No thanks," he didn''t really believe that Ru was gonna star gaze at all. "I''ll pass."

    Ru looked at Mu Chenyan meaningfully and said, "I should find a shelter for tonight."

    "You''re not homeless!"

    Ru chuckled, "No one is homeless in this world, Uncle. People on the streets are also under the same sky as you. The same sky is watching over them too and the same earth is gonna embrace them too. So what if there don''t have four walls and a roof above them? Whichever thing shelters them from wind and rain bes their roof and walls for that night."

    "That''s something to think about," said Mu Chenyan.

    "You, leave already," said Xia Zhao as he saw how Mu Chenyan''s thoughts were so easily led astray by Ru. He didn''t want this young master to stay for another moment and ruin the n for the night.

 Chapter 1130: Not Done With You

    Chapter 1130: Not Done With YouMu Chenyan looked at Xia Zhao strangely once Young Master Ru disappeared. Xia Zhao could actually tell what was on her mind. He took off his coat and hung it up before rolling the sleeve of his shirt up while walking towards the kitchen.

    Mu Chenyan followed behind him again like a little tail.

    She looked at him washing his hands before he took out the tea set to make tea.

    "Why aren''t you saying anything?" she asked.

    "What am I supposed to say?" he asked in return.

    "Shouldn''t you exin something about this nephew of yours whom I just met? Why don''t know about him?"

    Xia Zhao didn''t even look up at her as he answered, "How much do you really think you know about me, Yanzi? Isn''t it pretty normal that you don''t know my nephew?"

    "How is that normal?" she asked.

    "Oh? Do you know how many people there are in my family?"

    "Yes," she answered without thinking. "There is your mom and dad apart from you in the family. You also have grandparents but they don''t live with your parents and don''t have any contact with them either."

    "I also have a little brother," he told her.

    Mu Chenyan tilted her head and her lips parted in disbelief. "What? How did that happen? Did your dad raise a mistress outside?"

    Xia Zhao looked up and tapped her forehead, "What are you thinking about? I have a real brother. You really don''t know?"

    Mu Chenyan scratched her head as she tried to recall this detail. Did she really not know or did she momentarily forget? Why did it seem like she didn''t know about it? Wait! Was her memory failing her already? She wasn''t even that old even if she liked to call herself old. Did her body take her words seriously?

    Seeing the expressions on her face, Xia Zhao was amused and his straight lips suddenly upturned slightly. He could literally tell what were her emotions right now.

    "I have a secret to make your memory sharp. Want it?"

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head without even thinking but suddenly realizing what she did, she red at him, "Are you saying I''m losing memory? How dare you, Zhao?!"

    "I''m just helping you but as always, you take my kindness for evil." He pushed a cup towards her, "Have some tea and calm yourself down. Then we can talk slowly."

    Mu Chenyan took the cup and took a sip but ended up spurting it out.

    Xia Zhao ran to her side, "Are you a kid? Don''t you know it''s hot? Why are you in a hurry? Are you in such a hurry to kill me or yourself?" He held her face and told her, "Open your mouth. Let me see."

    Mu Chenyan obediently opened her mouth and he looked at her slightly red tongue.

    "Fortunately, it''s not burned," he said in relief. "Be careful. Can you do that? How can you be so childish even now?" He shook her head making her pout in dissatisfaction. "Aren''t you so good at taking care of everyone around you? Why can''t you do the same for yourself?"

    "You''re overreacting," said Mu Chenyan. "I was just a little careless. How can it be as serious as you say?"

    Xia Zhao didn''t want to argue with her right. Especially since he knew she was never gonna listen to him. So, it was pointless to say anything. He took his cup of tea and walked towards the sofa to take a seat.

    "You can sit down and talk now," he said.

    Mu Chenyan walked over too and sat beside him. She looked at the side of his face as he took a sip of the tea slowly, "Are you mad at me?"

    "No."

    "You''re lying."

    "I don''t lie."

    "How is that possible? Remember when I told you to lie to my godmother that we were going to the race course but I took you to..."

    "I only ever lied in my life for you," he cut off her words. "Whenever I lied in my life, it involved you."

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips, "It seems I had a very bad influence on you over the years."

    "That''s true."

    "You agree?"

    "Why? Should I lie again?"

    Mu Chenyan went silent and drank the tea in the cup in silence. She looked around at the penthouse. The dominant color was ck and white. How boring!

    "Is this your ce?" she asked.

    "Yes."

    "Why is again so monotonous? Can''t you find any other color than white, ck, beige, and gray?"

    "Didn''t I tell you that you took colors from my life?"

    "Keep ming me for everything," said Mu Chenyan. "I''m not done with you yet. You said I''m annoying. When did I be annoying to you?"

    "Do you really wanna waste time talking about this?" asked Xia Zhao. "I told you, we''ll have a conversation tonight."

    "About what?" she asked ying dumb.

    "You think you can fool me, Yanzi?" he asked seriously.

    "I have fooled you far too many times," replied Mu Chenyan smugly. It wasn''t her first time to act like this.

    "You didn''t fool me. I let you believe that you sessfully fooled me. There is a difference. You should understand it too."

    "Then who told you to keep pretending to be fooled? I have gotten used to it by now. And you want to change now? How can that work?"

    "So, you want me to keep acting like a fool?"

    "Yes!"

    "What kind of a fool do you want me to be?" Xia Zhao asked her. "A fool who kept falling for your tricks? Or a fool who is in love with you?"

    Mu Chenyan stiffened when she heard his words and stared into his eyes without knowing what to say in response. A fool in love with her? Did he really say that or was she hearing it wrong? She really couldn''t believe that this was something he said to her. It was so unbelievable that she didn''t blink for a long time.

 Chapter 1131: [Bonus chapter] Even More Now

    Chapter 1131: [Bonus chapter] Even More NowSeeing how she didn''t even blink, Xia Zhao put his hand on her eyes to close them. "Are you surprised or shocked? Is it really that shocking though, Yanzi?"

    Mu Chenyan held his hand and put it down as she looked at him andughed. Sheughed so much that tears came to her eyes. She just couldn''t stopughing it seemed just that funny right now to her.

    "Do you think I''m joking?"

    "It''s the funniest joke of my life," she told him as she wiped her tears.

    "It''s not a joke though," he said. "And you know it too. Now, you''re just avoiding it once again. Just like you avoided it years ago."

    "I avoided it?" she asked strangely. She held his cor and pulled him closer as she said, "You''re the one who said you''d take responsibility. Do you understand that at that time I didn''t want to hear that."

    Xia Zhao looked at her strangely, "You got me drunk, you pulled me to the cabin. You were dissatisfied with it in the morning. I am yet to understand what I even did wrong. Was it so wrong to tell you that I''d take responsibility? We slept together. Wasn''t I supposed to take responsibility for my actions?"

    "But that wasn''t what I wanted to hear the first thing in the morning after my first time," she said stubbornly. "I didn''t know what I wanted to hear at that time but I just know that it didn''t feel good when you said you''d take responsibility for whatever happened between us. As if I was nothing more than just a responsibility. Do you think that''s what I wanted to hear at that time?"

    "Wait! I think I won''t be able to exin this," said Xia Zhao and stood up. He went to the balcony opened the French windows and walked out. He raised his voice and shouted, "Ru! Get down here!"

    After shouting only once, he walked back inside and almost within a minute Ru entered behind him.

    "What happened Uncle? Why are you disturbing my star gazing now?"

    "I''ll ask you something. Please, just answer. Sorry for bothering you."

    Ru shrugged nonchntly, "Go ahead."

    "What was the very first lesson your teacher in the n taught you?" asked Xia Zhao.

    "A man must be loyal and responsible. Without loyalty and responsibility, a man is worse than a beast. If you don''t know how to be responsible for your words and actions, you don''t deserve the name of the n that nurtured you."

    Xia Zhao looked at Mu Chenyan and said, "Do you understand something?"

    "I don''t," she responded.

    "Oh, it''s about that," said Ru. "Then I think I''d be able to help." Ru walked over and looked at Mu Chenyan, "Miss Mu, you might have felt like my uncle thought you''re just a responsibility to him just because you guys slept together. But I assure you that''s not it. The first thing he spoke to you about was responsibility only because that''s in his blood. The words I told you, I was taught at the age of 2. And that lesson continued until I left the n. It''s a sin in our n to be disloyal and irresponsible. Why do you think Uncle Zhao''s father isn''t a part of the n anymore?"

    "I didn''t call you here to go into so much detail," said Xia Zhao.

    "I''m helping you here. Who told you to be so bad at exining yourself?" asked Ru as if he disdained his own uncle for being so useless. "Don''t you know women need to be coaxed? Especially after such an intimate night, the first thing you did was act like a man by being responsible. Did you think that a woman like Miss Mu wouldn''t want that?"

    "Wow! Even your nephew understands that Zhao! Why are you so dull?"

    "He is a block of wood! It''s just as his grandma says. He is really a dense block of wood!"

    "Young Master Ru," Xia Zhao called out. He was regretting calling this nephew down. It was really not a good decision. "Get out!"

    "If you weren''t my Uncle, I''d blow your head for treating me like this. Call me whenever you want and throw me out whenever you want. Do you think this young master is that easy to use?" Ru turned to leave but stopped and looked back at Mu Chenyan, "Miss Mu, my Uncle might be a bit dull but his feelings for you are not. Back then he might not have realized his feelings for you but even back then, it was true that you meant the world to him. And it''s true even more now. Why else do you think he is all alone even now? Isn''t it surprising? It''s not like a man like him can''t find a match at his age."

    "Ru, go now!"

    "Aren''t I doing it for you? You can''t speak. But I told you, I am very good at speaking. You should take some crash courses from me."

    "Says the person who doesn''t have a date as well."

    "That''s by choice! Choice! Do you understand?!" With a humph, Ru walked away and left as fast as he came just now.

    "Your nephew is like a gust of wind,"mented Mu Chenyan.

    "Really? People say he is more like a ghost. You never know when you''ll encounter him."

    Mu Chenyan didn''t respond and continued to think about what Ru just told her. In fact, she was really mad back then. There was nothing wrong with Xia Zhao telling her that he''d be responsible. Considering from the point of view of that time, it was perfectly normal and yet, it didn''t sit well with her and she avoided him instead. All because she really didn''t want to hear that from him.

    As for what she was expecting to hear. It was only now she understood it.

    She looked at him with aplicated gaze as he came to sit beside her again and held her hand in his own this time.

 Chapter 1132: My Greatness

    Chapter 1132: My Greatness"What Ru said is right. I didn''t mean anything else when I told you that I''d be responsible for you. I was just acting upon what I was taught all my life," said Xia Zhao. "My grandparents still aren''t happy with me over that incident. It''s really considered a sin in our n. We don''t take rtionships casually. That''s what I was taught too. It''s just that we aren''t taught about feelings so I didn''t know what I felt for you until now. However, you know it in your heart too that I have always put you at the top of my list. There had never been a person more important to me than you. Are you willing to ce your hand on your heart that says that there had been someone more important than you in my life?"

    Mu Chenyan couldn''t do it. She really couldn''t. She had plenty of opinions about him but she couldn''t just go against her conscience and say that he hadn''t treated her as the most important one in his life.

    "There have been many people who were important to you over the years," said Xia Zhao. "Whether it''s your godmother, godfather, your brother, orter your nephew and niece. Each one was more important to you than I. Even now, Raelle is the one whoes first to you. I still am way behind all those people. Aren''t I?" He took a brief pause and sighed, "Don''t you think I should be mad at you instead of you always being mad at me for that night?"

    "What? Are you gonna be mad at me?" Mu Chenyan red up unreasonably at him once again.

    Xia Zhao smiled at her unreasonable self and said helplessly, "Shouldn''t I be? Technically speaking, you were the one who dragged me to the bed that night."

    Mu Chenyan looked away from him but still refused to back down. "So what? Do you regret it? Huh! Anyway, if you really wanted to, you could have stopped it all. You weren''t that drunk either that you lost your mind. And I could never win against you either. You didn''t stop it. So, you can''t regret it either."

    "I never did," said Xia Zhao. "When did I say I regret it? But I do regret letting you walk out of there before understanding why you were mad at me. If I had stopped you, we wouldn''t have wasted twenty years of our lives. And Yanzi, how many twenty years do you think we have in our life now? Are you really willing to waste another twenty years because of the same argument all over again?"

    "I don''t," she replied as she lowered her head and bit her lip.

    "Then stop being so unreasonable."

    "Now, I am also unreasonable?"

    "You always were."

    "You never mind that before," she pointed out. "The other day I bit off your flesh and you didn''t mind. Now, do you mind if I''m unreasonable?"

    "When did I say?" he replied helplessly.

    "You shouldn''t be minding that. You are the reason I''m unreasonable. Didn''t we already talk about it? Who told you to keep giving in? Who told you to ept all my unreasonableness?"

    "Now, should I say that I have been a bad influence on you?" asked Xia Zhao teasingly. He tapped her head, "I am fine with your unreasonableness. I''m fine with whatever you are. I always had been. Did I everin?"

    "No," she replied honestly.

    "Yanzi, look at me," he said and made her face him. He looked into her eyes and said, "I love you!"

    Mu Chenyan couldn''tugh this time because she could see the seriousness in his eyes. In fact, she knew the seriousness of his words when he first time mentioned it but she still took it as a joke.

    "I really do love you," he added. "Call me dull or a fool that it took me so long to realize it. But I realized it. I have liked you for far too long now. I always said you''re very important to me but I didn''t understand why. Now, I do understand that I love you. I love your unreasonable self. I love it when you act like a kid in front of me."

    "I''m not a kid."

    Xia Zhao chuckled, "Aren''t you one? You are mature before everyone else but love to act like a kid with me."

    "Not a kid! Not a kid!" she repeated.

    "Okay. Okay. Our Yanzi is not a kid. She is great!"

    "Of course, I am! But what are you? Can you really handle that greatness of mine?"

    When he didn''t answer, she looked at him in dissatisfaction.

    "Weren''t you talking so well just now? Why are you so silent now?"

    "You just want me to talk?"

    "Who told you to be so silent all the time? Can''t I just want to hear more?" asked Mu Chenyan. "I''m not so easy. You have to talk more. Tell me how great I am. Or else it''s a no from me!"

    Xia Zhao put his hand on her head lovingly, "What more can I say when no words are enough to describe my Yanzi''s greatness? My Yanzi is just too good for this world."

    "Right?" she was pleased to hear that. "So, all those people who says I''m rude and mannerless are just jealous."

    "Yes. They don''t know anything," agreed Xia Zhao.

    Mu Chenyan narrowed her eyes at him, "You really love me?"

    "You have a doubt?"

    "Not really. It''s just a little difficult to believe. After all, I have thought long and hard for years about what kind of a person you''d fall in love with. In the end, you chose the awesome me to fall in love with. It seems you''re not blind."

    "I have very good eyesight. How else would I see how amazing my Yanzi is?"

    He seemed to be coaxing a kid but it actually worked very well on Mu Chenyan. If it was anyone else, it might not have worked but whenever it came to Xia Zhao, Mu Chenyan actually was easy to coax as long as he was willing to coax her softly and gently. If he used his serious tone, she''d be even more difficult to deal with.

    Xia Zhao could only sigh that it took him so long to understand this truth.

 Chapter 1133 Try Something New

    Chapter 1133 Try Something New

    Mu Chenyan was actually coaxed into smiling brightly. She always knew he was patient with her. But it was rare to see him being so willing to talk and talk so softly to her. It felt different but it felt good too.

    "Yanzi, what about you? How do you feel about me?" asked Xia Zhao straightforwardly. He didn''t think they were at the age where they had to y guessing games anymore. He definitely didn''t want to assume things on his own now.

    "Why? If I don''t like you, are you gonna walk away?" she asked in return.

    "If it was twenty years ago, I would be willing to walk away. Now, I''m not willing," he told her seriously.

    "Oh, is that so? Why is that so?"

    "Because I don''t want to leave you alone. I want to try my best to make you happy in the years toe."

    "You? Can you even make me happy? What can you do? You barely even talk. How will I be happy with someone like you who lives like a monk? Aren''t you afraid that I''ll disturb your peaceful life?"

    "My peaceful life wasn''t really fun without you," he said. "It was just too peaceful that something felt missing. And the moment I got the call that someone was asking for the painting, I instantly understood what was missing. Because I was very excited to hear about you that day. At that moment, I realized that I might like my peaceful life but I missed you more in that life."

    Mu Chenyan''s lips upturned slightly when she heard that. She had to say she was actually very pleased with whatever he said tonight. But she was trying hard not to show it on her face too much or this man would get too smug.

    "I''ll bring a lot of trouble into your silent life. I''m still very loud," she reminded him.

    "You are most wee to do whatever you want." Xia Zhao caressed the side of her head as he went on, "In fact, you are right that I don''t know how I''ll make you happy for the years toe but I''m sure that I''d try my best to do everything that can make you happy. Whatever you want, I''m willing to offer it to you." He looked into her eyes as he added, "In fact, now it''s all up to you. It''s up to you whether you want toe into my silent world. Are you willing to ept a boring person like me?"

    "You aren''t that boring," she said.

    "Is that so? Didn''t you say I''m boring?"

    "Now, I''m saying you''re not that boring. You have opinions?"

    "I don''t dare to have any opinions," said Xia Zhao with a straight face. "But you still haven''t told me what you feel for me."

    "What''s the rush? Am I gonna run?"

    "You can run."

    "You don''t trust me?"

    "You have a bad record. Even if I want to, I can''t trust you and you can''t me me for that either."

    Mu Chenyan didn''t argue regarding that. There was nothing to argue there anyway.

    "Let me think about it," she said.

    "Think. You can think all you want," said Xia Zhao. "We have plenty of time." He sat there looking at her, "Should I list out my strong points to make it easier for you to make a decision?"

    Mu Chenyan suddenly got interested and folded one leg on the sofa as she turned to him. She didn''t care about how she sat in front of him at all. There was no image to speak of in front of him anyway.

    "Go ahead. I''m listening."

    Xia Zhao shook his head helplessly at her reaction and thought about it seriously before saying, "First and foremost, I love you a lot."

    Mu Chenyan almost blushed when she heard him repeating that.

    "Tell me something new!"

    "Okay," he smiled at her and continued, "So, being with me is very profitable to you. Think about it, didn''t you always want to win against me? If you''re with me, my win is your win. Isn''t that a profitable business?"

    "Next!" said Mu Chenyan trying to suppress her smile.

    "Hmmm... I''m actually very rich too. I know you''re a richdy but who doesn''t like money? Having more means you will be richer. Isn''t that profitable?"

    "How cheap to use the money to sway me!"

    Xia Zhao poked her cheek saying, "But this face tells me that you are swayed for sure."

    "Huh! Never!"

    Xia Zhao chuckled softly and went on, "You won''t have to deal with a mother-inw too. I don''t have a good rtionship with my parents anyway. So, you''d be safe from the trouble."

    Mu Chenyan frowned a little when she heard that. In fact, this was nothing new to her. She knew he never had a good rtionship with his parents. Especially, his mother. But she never really knew why and she never asked to. The more she thought about it, the more she felt that he was more of a mystery to her while she was an open book.

    And it wasn''t like he wasn''t willing to tell her anything about himself. It was just like Xia Zhao had said, she was not very interested in learning about him or his life. That''s why she knew so little about him. But he was always concerned about her so he knew everything. This realization really made her ufortable every time.

    "Also, you''ll get a partner like me who knows all of you. Who is understanding, loving, caring, patient, kind..."

    "Stop, stop! It seems like you''re bragging now."

    "I''m not though," he argued. "I only speak the truth and nothing but the truth. So, what do you think? Don''t I have a lot of advantages? It''s definitely not a loss."

    Mu Chenyan still didn''t respond to him at all. She had a lot on her mind right now and she wasn''t able to give an answer right now.

    "I''m still not good enough for you, Yanzi?" he asked a little bitterly.

 Chapter 1134 [Bonus chapter] So Unconfident

    Chapter 1134 [Bonus chapter] So Unconfident

    "Am I really not good enough?" Xia Zhao repeated his question again.

    Mu Chenyan held his hand that was dripping from her head slowly and held it tightly as she stared into his eyes, "Zhao, even if I go against my conscience, I can''t find anything wrong with you except that you talk too little. I have said a lot of things about you over the years but I have never called you a bad person. Good? You''re more than just good enough for anyone. In fact, I think there aren''t that many women who are worthy of you.

    "You''re tall, handsome, sessful. You don''t have any bad habits. You don''t have any messy rtionships. As you said, you''re rich. So, finding anything wrong with you is difficult. You have all the qualities that a woman wants in a man these days."

    "I''m talking about you, Yanzi," he interrupted. "I don''t care about what others think. What about you?"

    "Zhao, do you think I''m a match for you? Am I worthy?"

    Xia Zhao covered her mouth instantly, "Don''t talk about your worth. It doesn''t suit you at all. As for being a match? Who said everyone is a heavenly match in the world? Rtionships of some mismatched couples also work out. Why can''t ours work out? In fact, I think we are a good match."

    "Huh?"

    "I''m silence, tranquil as the winter''s embrace,

    Yet you emerge, the essence of spring''s grace.

    I''m the muted notes, waiting to be heard,

    While you, the melody, soar like a bird.

    I''m the canvas, devoid of colors so grand,

    But you, the artist, with a masterful hand.

    I''m the winter, cold and serene,

    But you, the spring, vibrant and pristine.

    Together we dance, in this cosmic rhyme,

    Silence and sound, in harmony we chime.

    So let us embark on this wondrous quest,

    Where silence and sound find perfect rest.

    With you as my muse, my eternal spring,

    Xia Zhao pinched her cheeks lovingly, "You''re still just avoiding."

    00:24

    We''ll paint a masterpiece, our souls shall sing."

    Mu Chenyan almost stopped breathing hearing him speak. She felt like she''d actually end up crying. This fool! In the end, he really touched her heart no matter how hard she tried to resist him.

    "Have you been fooling me all these years?" she asked in a slightly choked-up voice. "Telling me that you don''t know how to speak."

    "But I really don''t," he said. "It''s just that I have a lot more words to say when I look at you. If you like listening to me, I''ll try to speak more."

    "Who likes to hear your voice?" she argued stubbornly. "Although you have a beautiful voice, I still have no wish to hear it every day for the rest of my life."

    Xia Zhao pinched her cheeks lovingly, "You''re still just avoiding."

    "What am I avoiding?"

    "You''re finding all sorts of things to say just so that you don''t have to confront your feelings for me. No, maybe you already understood it. But you love being stubborn in front of me and you''re still insisting on it. Yanzi, this is about our life together. Can you put aside your mood swings for a moment and tell me your feelings? Didn''t I already lose? I already told you I''m the one who fell for you. What are you afraid of now?"

    Yes, what was she afraid of? Wasn''t it just that she didn''t think she deserved him? She called him the nemesis. How could she not know how good he was? But at the same time, she knew her own self too. She felt like she had made him suffer for the past years because of her weird temper. He didn''tin and he never will. Because he just never was capable ofining when things involved her.

    She was everything dark in his bright world.

    "Stop thinking," said Xia Zhao. "Can you for once follow your heart? Just tell me what you feel for me. Is it really that difficult?"

    "How can it be so difficult?" she retorted. "You''re very easy to fall for, Zhao. Don''t you know that yourself? Why do you think I always argued with you? Why did I insist on making you my rival? Wasn''t that just me putting up defenses and reminding myself that you''re off-limits? I kept telling myself that I couldn''t fall in love with you. And I really thought I seeded. But I didn''t seed." A tear slid down her face as she spoke, "You''ve always been perfect. Everything you did, you''re good at it. Even if you wore clothes, they''d be without a crease or a speck of dust. You always looked like a glowing existence that could catch everyone''s attention. I really didn''t think I deserved to have someone like you."

    Xia Zhao wiped her tear disstressedly, "And when did my Yanzi be so unconfident in herself?"

    "Isn''t it because of you? I always kept my distance from you only because you kept making me question myself."

    "But it wasn''t my intention."

    "I know. I know you''re born to shine. Yes, it wasn''t your fault that you''re so glowing. It''s just like my Elle. Wherever she goes, she has everyone''s attention. She is just that kind of an existence. Just like you. And that made you both seem like unattainable."

    "But we are also human," said Xia Zhao. "No matter how good others are, they can never be you, Yanzi. At least, not to me. If they could, I wouldn''t have blindly waited for you for so long. I told you. There is nothing and no one more important to me than you in this world. Do you doubt my words?"

    Mu Chenyan shook her head, "I have no doubt."

    "Good," said Xia Zhao as he leaned over and kissed her lips catching her off guard. Mu Chenyan''s eyes widened and her lips parted. He took the chance to deepen the kiss as his other hand went to support her back and pulled her closer. Mu Chenyan was surprised but she didn''t resist at all and even wrapped her arms around his neck.

 Chapter 1135 Really Cant

    Chapter 1135 Really Can''t

    The kisssted for a long time and it became heated over time. Finally, with an ''ouch'' Mu Chenyan pulled away and red at him, "Can''t you kiss properly? Why are you biting me?"

    "Okay. It''s my fault," Xia Zhao epted his mistake immediately with a good attitude. "I should have learned to kiss properly."

    Her eyes narrowed as she bit his Adam''s apple saying, "You still want to learn? From whom?"

    Xia Zhao looked into her eyes dotingly, "Of course, from you."

    Mu Chenyan was satisfied with this answer and said, "Who wants to kiss you? In fact, who told you to kiss me? Did I agree to your proposal? I didn''t!"

    Xia Zhao tapped her nose, "Would you like to look at where you are sitting right now?"

    Mu Chenyan raised her brow and looked down. She blushed when she realized that from her original seat, she had actually moved to his legs who knows when. Currently, their posture was rather intimate especially when her arms were still wrapped around his neck tightly.

    As she tried to move, he held her waist and said, "Don''t move. Why? Are you ashamed now?"

    "Who is ashamed?" she retorted and even found a morefortable position to sit on his legs. "I won''t move. What can you do about it?" She was looking like a proper hooligan but he was still smiling with a pampering look in his eyes.

    He brushed her hair aside that fell over her eyes and said, "Right. No one can move you."

    Mu Chenyan raised her chin, "Indeed. No one can!" She took a deep breath and slowly digested everything that just happened. She couldn''t keep hypocritically pushing him away with herme excuses anymore. Besides, she had nothing to lose. "Since you love me so much and I am a kind person, I''ll give you a chance to impress me."

    "You''re very bad at acting, Yanzi."

    "What did you say?"

    "I said, as you wish. I''ll try my best to woo you."

    "That''s right." Then who knows what came to her mind that she pinched his chin and her face came closer to his. There was barely a distance between their lips as she asked, "Zhao, this was your second kiss, right?"

    "You have a doubt?" he asked helplessly. He really couldn''t bring himself to have any messy rtionships since his upbringing didn''t allow it at all. He was an upright person and very conservative in his ideals too.

    "Even if I had a doubt, I won''t have any after seeing your bad kissing skills."

    Xia Zhao caught her lips again and said, "Then you give me more guidance in the future, Miss Mu."

    "Have faith in me," she said. "Leave it all to me. I will teach you well."

    Xia Zhao didn''t respond but actually hugged her. Mu Chenyan was taken aback by this sudden hug but didn''t push him. She rested her head on his shoulder and embraced him back.

    "What''s up?" she asked.

    "Nothing. I just wanted to hug you since we met again," he answered honestly. "But you''re stubborn and won''t even let me hug."

    "You didn''t ask for it," she argued. "Zhao, are you sure you love me?"

    He pushed her a little to look at her face, "Why? You have a doubt?"

    "No, I''m in disbelief," she replied truthfully. "You can''t me me. Okay?"

    "Haven''t you heard? There are a lot of top students who fall for the ones who are at thest position," he mentioned.

    "Are you saying I am the one who is in thest position?"

    "No," he denied. "That was just an example."

    "Then give a good example."

    "Oh. Then how about two top students who alwayspeted for the first position and finally fell in love from being rivals?"

    "That''s a good one. Barely eptable!"

    "Moody."

    "So what? I am! Do you have any opinion?"

    "Don''t dare."

    "You don''t dare to do a lot of things," she said.

    "If I am not afraid of hurting you, there is nothing that I don''t dare to do."

    "Then tell me what secret you have with my Elle?" she took the chance to ask. She brought the conversation back to the point where it started from. It was actually a little unbelievable how she insisted on knowing about this.

    "I told you it''s a secret."

    "Didn''t you say you love me? You are already keeping secrets from me when we haven''t even started dating yet. Do you think it''s a good idea?"

    "I love you there is no doubt about that," he said. "But telling you someone else''s secret is not something I can do. That''s against my principles. You know that too. You just want to stubbornly ask me over and over again."

    "I can''t help it. I won''t be able to sleep properly if I don''t know what secret is going on between you and my Elle. It''s gonna keep bugging me."

    "I know," he said as he rubbed her face with his hand. "But I really can''t tell you. I do want to make you feelfortable but I really can''t do it. It involved Raelle and she didn''t tell me to share it with anyone. She gave me a responsibility, I can''t betray her now."

    "Stubborn!" shemented but she knew this result from the beginning. Would he be the Xia Zhao she knew if he really opened his mouth and shared someone''s secret with her?

    "Don''t be mad now," he said. "You can ask Raelle after I tell her about it."

    "What is it about? Can you tell me that, at least?"

    Xia Zhao pursed his lips.

    "Not gonna tell?"

    "It''s about a woman she asked me to find."

    "What woman?" asked Mu Chenyan and frowned. "Is it Chi Xirui?"

    "Yes," he answered.

    Mu Chenyan was a little surprised that Raelle went to look for him but she could say anything. She couldn''t find anything herself so it was better that Raelle didn''te to her. How embarrassed she''d be if she couldn''t do something for her precious?

    "Did you find anything about her?"

    Since he was looking for Chi Xirui, of course, he knew that she was looking for information rted to that woman too. So, he didn''t know whether to speak or not.

    "You did, didn''t you?" asked Mu Chenyan certainly. He wouldn''t avoid her eyes if he didn''t find anything. She felt like she was gonna blow up. She used so many contacts and came back empty handed but he? Argh! So mad!

    "Rx! This has nothing to do with me. I''m not that great. Don''t think you lost. It''s not my credit."

    "Now, you''ve learned to lie to coax me?"

    "I''m not lying. It''s my nephew you just met. It''s his credit this time. I really didn''t do it. Trust me!"

    "Really?"

    "Really!" He swore that he didn''t do it. How could he lie to her? He really wasn''t the one who found the background of Chi Xirui.

    "Tell me about it then."

    "Wait for me to tell Raelle. I''m sure you''ll know then."

    "Fine," Mu Chenyan didn''t insist anymore since she finally know what this secret was about. Even if she didn''t know everything, it was better than nothing. And it was enough to make her sleep at night. That was all that mattered at the moment. "About your nephew... I really feel like I have seen him somewhere but those bewitching eyes are throwing me off. I wouldn''t forget those eyes if I had seen them before. It''s very confusing."

    "Don''t waste your time and thoughts on that guy," said Xia Zhao. "You won''t be able to understand even if you want to do so."

    "I feel like he just told me a big secret about your family," mentioned Mu Chenyan. "He said something about your dad."

    Xia Zhao paused but still told her, "My father was expelled from the n for his disloyalty and irresponsibility. My grandparents didn''t want him to stay after what he did. That''s why he had been alone all this while with my mother."

    "But what did he do?" asked Mu Chenyan curiously. She was too curious and felt like something was scratching her heart right now. She just had to know what was going on. Didn''t he say she wasn''t interested in his matters, now, she was very interested in everything rted to him. So, she had to know.

    Xia Zhao was very helpless before her questions and told her, "My father had a fiancee but he had an affair with his fiancee''s best friend."

    "And that''s your mother!" Mu Chenyan sounded certain.

    Xia Zhao nodded his head, "Yes. That''s my mother. She snatched her own best friend''s fiancee. Since the engagement only happened after my father said yes, it meant he was responsible for that woman. He was not only disloyal to his fiancee, but he also went to have an affair with his fiancee''s best friend which led to pregnancy. But despite that, he was gonna marry his fiancee if my mother hadn''t made a mess out of things. So, he was both disloyal to his fiancee and also irresponsible best friend which led to pregnancy. But despite that, he was gonna marry his fiancee if my mother hadn''t made a mess out of things. So, he was both disloyal to his fiancee and also irresponsible towards my mother. How can our n amodate him after that?"

 Chapter 1136 Supposedly

    1136 Supposedly

    "You can''t break rules in ns like mine," added Xia Zhao. "The elders won''t allow their descendants to degenerate. It''s a matter of morality and we take it very seriously."

    "Hmm..." Mu Chenyan hummed in understanding. "Now that I''ve heard a little about your n, I can actually understand why you have this upright and dull personality."

    "You just met my nephew. Does he look like a dull person to you, Yanzi?" asked Xia Zhao.

    "Not really," she replied.

    "Because he is anything but dull. He might not be the life of the party like the Xin family''s daughter, Xiu but Ru is still someone you''d find a lot interesting." He sighed to himself as he added, "But you are right. Silence is kind of inherited in our n. Everyone loves it."

    "Really?"

    "Hm."

    Mu Chenyan yed with the buttons of his shirt and he let her be. She was thinking something and he didn''t even ask her to share because eventually, she will spill in front of him.

    And she did very soon. "Zhao, I never thought your father was such a tra-..." She didn''tplete her word but he understood it very well. "Don''t mind. I have always liked your father. I feel like my understanding of him is suddenly subverted. You can''t me me for saying that about him."

    Xia Zhao yed with her hair as he said, "Have I ever med you for anything? It''s not like I don''t know how you like to talk. And I don''t mind it at all. You can be who you are when you are around me. You know that, right?"

    Mu Chenyan nodded in response, "But I''m still unable toe to terms with this truth."

    "Is it really that difficult though?" asked Xia Zhao. "It was indeed my mother who seduced him but it was he whocked self-control which led him where he is today. He says he is very happy with her."

    "Isn''t he? I thought they loved each other very much."

    "Yanzi, I ask you to choose between your love and your family, who would you choose?"

    "My family," responded Mu Chenyan without missing a beat. "Besides, my love is my Elle and my Elle is my family too. Isn''t the choice very easy?"

    Xia Zhao shook his head at her yful smile and said, "Be serious."

    "The answer is still the same. How is it easy to leave your family for your love? Maybe the love is worth going against the whole family but for how long? What is the guarantee that the love willst forever? When you have to make a choice between two important people, no matter whom you choose in the end, it''ll still leave a void in your life."

    "Then what makes you think my father is still as happy as he ims to be and doesn''t regret his choice back then?" asked Xia Zhao. "I never asked him if he really regrets it but what I do know is that he is very lonely in his life. He hasn''t met his parents in decades. The reason why he desperately wanted my grandparents to see me was because he thought I''ll eventually be the bridge between him and his family."

    "Did it happen?"

    "No one can bend rules in our n. If you break the rules, the punishment wille too. Ru is the next chosen head of the n and yet, he is also always punished when he breaks the rules. And unfortunately, Ru has been a rule breaker all his life and he has never been let off."

    "It reminds me of the n rules I read in Xiang family''s ancestral house," said Mu Chenyan.

    "If the Xiang n had survived like Xia n did, they would also follow their ancestral rules. It''s just that the Xiang family only has a handful of descendants left now. And Uncle Tianyu doesn''t want to use his ancestral rules anymore. He feels like there is no need to do so."

    "Your mother was pregnant with..."

    "No," he interrupted her words. "She was pregnant with a girl at that time."

    "You have an elder sister?" She asked in surprise. "How is that possible? I can''t be that oblivious."

    "She was never born," he told her. "My mother did an abortion in a fit of anger."

    "And your father still married her?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "He had made his choice at that point. Between family and her. He chose her. And since he had already made his choice, he had to go along with it till the end."

    "Why is this soplicated?"

    "Why are you so curious then? In my family, you only have to understand me. The rest doesn''t matter."

    "What if your grandparents didn''t like me as they didn''t like your mother?"

    "Yanzi, it was never about like or dislike. The only reason my grandparents didn''t ept my mother was that she became a third party in someone''s rtionship. She knew the man was her best friend''s fiance but she still schemed against him."

    "Oh. Then do you think they''d like me?"

    "Why? You''re ready to marry me?"

    "Who said that? I''m just asking. You know supposedly."

    Xia Zhao chuckled at her, "Yes. I understand. Don''t worry. My grandparents like you a lot already."

    "But your mother doesn''t like me," reminded Mu Chenyan as she yawned and rubbed her sleepy eyes. She was really tired after all the work these days and hadn''t had a good rest. Now that she rxed in his arms and was casually chatting with him, her fatigue caught up with her. She actually closed her eyes and leaned on his shoulder.

    Xia Zhao kissed the top of her head and whispered in a soft voice, "Her opinion doesn''t matter in our life. If she has the right to choose who she loves, so do I." He wanted to say more but as she rubbed against his shoulder and hummed in satisfaction, he went silent. He rubbed her head lovingly before hugging her waist and standing up with her in his arms.

    He took her to the bedroom and put her on the bed as he tucked her in.

    "Good night, Yanzi!"

 Chapter 1137 [Bonus chapter] Detrimental

    1137 [Bonus chapter] Detrimental

    After leaving Amiah''s room, Hyson didn''t go to his room to change anymore. And he didn''t go downstairs to join the engagement banquet either. He went to the rooftop instead. He didn''t know what he was doing there but he knew that he didn''t want to go down right now. He sat on the rooftop for hours looking at the sky filled with stars.

    The moon tonight was really beautiful and he felt himself entranced. When he came back to himself, it was quitete. He stood up to leave. But as he passed by the small garden on the rooftop, he found a familiar person sitting on the wooden chair enjoying the moon as he had been.

    "Tree Spirit!"

    Ru turned his head and looked at Hyson, "Oh, what are you doing here? Are you also homeless like me?"

    Hyson walked over and sat down on the other chair as he asked, "You? Homeless? Are you sure?"

    "Just a house of four walls and a roof is not considered a home," came the response. "Some of us are really homeless even with that roof above our head."

    "True," agreed Hyson. "Homes are made with feelings and people. Without love, it''s just a lifeless house made of bricks and cement."

    "You kid, understand it well."

    "So, what are you really doing here?"

    "I was kicked out," replied Ru. "My uncle offered me to stay at his penthouse tonight and he forgot all about me once he came across your godmother."

    Hyson raised his brows at Ru, "You mean, my Yanyan is currently with your uncle?"

    "Yup!"

    "Is that a good thing or a bad thing?"

    "If it was a bad thing would I have left so easily? This young master isn''t that easy to kick out. But I didn''t want to ruin their privacy too. So, I took my leave. Now, hopefully, those two won''t need any more of my help."

    "You look very eager to bring them together," mentioned Hyson.

    "Why shouldn''t I be? At this point, everyone is a monk in my n. Not a single person from my generation is willing to look for a partner. Everyone thinks rtionships are a hassle and they have better things to do in life. This is a very serious matter. It''s detrimental to the survival of our n. How can I not be happy to have my uncle find his partner? Even if he is from the previous generation, it still means some progress, right?"

    "It can''t be that bad," said Hyson.

    "But it is," said Ru seriously. "It is just that bad."

    "Then you take the lead and make an example," suggested Hyson.

    Ru gave him a look, "Thanks for your suggestion but I''m thest person who wants to find a partner. I am someone who grew up in a monastery. Do you really think this young master is looking for a partner? Why do I have to take the lead? It''s uneptable."

    Hyson pursed his lips and shook his head.

    "What about you, kid? What are you hiding from?" asked Ru.

    "I''m not hiding. Just had something on my mind."

    "What?" asked Ru. "Did someone break your heart?" Hyson frowned at that and Ru added, "Or you broke someone''s heart?" Hyson''s expression froze and Ru smirked knowingly. "Oh, so that''s it. Feeling bad about it?"

    "Kind of," answered Hyson.

    Ru shook his head, "Did it for the first time?"

    "Yeah."

    "Rx. You''ll get used to it."

    "Talking from experience, I believe."

    "Of course!"

    Hyson sighed, "I don''t even know why I''m feeling this way."

    "Because you have a very good heart," said Ru. "You don''t like hurting people and that''s why it''s hurting you now."

    Hyson bit his lips when he heard that and didn''t deny it. He thought he was capable of anything but deep down, he was still a little soft-hearted. He didn''t like seeing a woman cried because of him. It just felt bad.

    "I feel like I let my mum down," he told Ru. "She always taught me to be respectful to women. She said to never make them cry or bully them. She said that girls are fragile and delicate. I should be careful with them even with my words. Tonight, I might have been a bit harsh I think."

    "How adorable!"mented Ru as he picked up a bar of chocte from the table and unwrapped it. "Want some? Eat some chocte. You''ll feel better." Hyson didn''t believe those words but still took the chocte to eat. "You have no faith in my words but I like the fact that you''re obedient."

    Hyson didn''t respond to that. He felt like there was nothing to respond especially since he was busy eating the chocte. This was a delicious chocte actually.

    "Actually, you don''t have to be so down thinking about this. You can''t make everyone happy in life. If you want to make everyone happy, you''ll first have to sacrifice your own happiness. Life is just like that. But the point is, it''s okay to make sacrifice if you know that by your sacrifice, everyone will be happy. However, the truth is, someone will always be unhappy. And it''s not your job to make them happy. Your responsibility in life is to make yourself happy. Are you happy to reject that girl tonight?"

    Hyson nodded his head, "Even if I do it again, I''d still say no."

    "That''s all you need to know. You should stay true to yourself. When you know this, why think about it so much and make yourself upset? Even if your tell your mother about this, she''d also tell you that you did the right thing. It''s not like you liked that girl. And if you don''t like her, it''s better to tell her than leaving her hanging."

    Hyson put his elbow on the table in front of him with his face perched on his hand as he listened attentively and felt like it made sense. Why was he struggling for so long when it was so easy to understand?

 Chapter 1138 Cant Be Blamed

    1138 Can''t Be med

    "Also," Ru started again after a pause. "Your mum is actually wrong about something."

    "Huh? What?" Hyson asked with interest visible in his eyes.

    "Girls are not fragile," answered Ru. "It''s the society that collectively decided tobel girls as delicate. In reality, girls are a lot stronger than you think. You''re underestimating their potential. While it''s true that men are inherently stronger physically but women are not worse. It''s just that society likes to treat them like dolls because they want girls to act like dolls who can dance on their fingers."

    Hyson looked at the side of Ru''s face as the person in front of him concentrated on eating chocte without care after speaking. Those enchanting green eyes seemed to be sparkling under the moonlight but at the same time, there was a darkness unknown hidden in those eyes that seemed rather fascinating to him.

    "That''s true," he agreed without hesitation. "I also believe girls aren''t as weak as people say. If it was like that I wouldn''t have repeatedly lost to my own best friend all my life. And I grew up watching strong women around me. So, the idea of fragile women is very uneptable to me. But since I always listened to my mum, I don''t want to argue with her either."

    "There is nothing wrong with arguing," said Ru carelessly. "You might think that arguing makes a rtionship weak but that''s not true. Sometimes, arguing and making your point clear is necessary for life. If both sides keep what''s in their hearts to themselves, it''ll eventually hurt the rtionship a lot more. Besides, do you think the woman who told you that girls are weak is also weak?"

    As Ru turned his face to look at Hyson, Ru raised his lips slightly, "You''re raised by a strong woman. Don''t you agree?"

    Hyson nodded his head with a smile on his face. "Yes. I agree." How could he not agree? If he didn''t agree why would he say that he didn''t ept the idea of weak women? No matter how delicate his mother was, he had seen how strong she was too. It didn''t mean she was physically strong. But she took the chance of raising a son on her own in an unknown ce with a disability and yet, she didn''t give up. How could she not be considered strong? "I guess my mum is contradictory."

    "There is nothing wrong with that," responded Ru. "This young master had always been contradictory in his life too. It takes me a minute to contradict myself." He took a moment and asked, "Do you wanna eat something?"

    "For instance?"

    "Spicy crayfish!" came the suggestion.

    Hyson swallowed and said, "Oh, that sounds fun. It''d be better if there is a cold beer with it."

    "Tsk. What''s the fun in beer?" Rumented. "It would have been better if my wine was here. It''s all my uncle''s fault who gave away my precious wine."

    "What wine is it?" asked Hyson curiously.

    "Peach wine."

    "Buy it again."

    "Can''t buy it," came the answer.

    "Why?"

    "Because it''s home-brewed."

    "Then it''s even easier. Just brew it again," said Hyson, not understanding why the loss of wine was something to be sad about when you could brew it again.

    "This young master can certainly brew the peach wine," said Ru. "The problem is, mine doesn''t taste like the one brewed by my grandfather. Even though we both follow the same steps. It still turns out differently every year. Sadly, my grandfather only allows me to take two bottles of his brew every year. It''s gone now! I have to wait for a whole year."

    "That''s... sad?"

    "Don''t even mention it."

    "But why does it turn out differently? Your grandfather must have a secret ingredient."

    Ru chuckled, "Yeah. He said his secret ingredient is his age. I can''tpete with that. He said when I reach his age, I''ll find the taste I love so much."

    "Well, age is really hard topete with," agreed Hyson wholeheartedly. He also heard simr things from Grandfather Xiang so he understood well that he really couldn''tpete with old people. Their age is really their secret weapon since they have lived longer and have more experience. They have seen things that he didn''t. So, it was understandable that he couldn''tpete with them.

    "Young Master!"

    "Ahh!" Hyson jumped out of his chair when he heard that voice and turned to look at the person who spoke. There were two people standing there and they had no expressions on their faces. "Why are you walking like ghosts? Is it fun to scare people?" He put a hand on his chest and calmed himself slowly.

    Clearing his throat, the person turned to Ru again, "The crayfish is here. And the cold beer you asked for." After cing the things on the table, the other person also took out another drink and ced it on the table saying, "Here is your lemonade."

    "Thanks," said Ru. "Go and enjoy yourte-night snack."

    "Yes, Young Master!"

    Hyson slowly sat down when he saw them leaving, his breathing was still chaotic. This sudden voice gave him shock. He just realized that whenever he was around Ru, he''d have such a scary experience. It was so not fun!

    "You should really get used to it. Let your heart know that you''d see other people unexpectedly whenever you meet me," said Ru kindheartedly. "After all, we''ll be seeing each other a lot after we be rtives."

    Hyson couldn''tugh or cry right now. "Does it have to be always like this? Where did they evene from?"

    "They were always here though," responded Ru. "It''s your fault that you didn''t notice their presence."

    "Firstly, it''s dark. There is only moonlight to illuminate the space here. I can barely see you clearly. Secondly, I didn''t hear the sound of their steps or felt their breath. It''s not my fault that I was taken aback."

    Ru nodded his head in understanding, "Indeed, you can''t be med for that."

 Chapter 1139 [Bonus chapter] Magic!

    1139 [Bonus chapter] Magic!

    "But as I said, get used to it. Just remember that there are more people around when you see me even if you can''t see them. I''m never alone," said Ru. "And don''t me them. It wasn''t their intention to scare you. They are used to walking without any sound. Haven''t you noticed yet? You won''t hear the sound of my uncle walking too." Ru pushed the beer towards him, "Here. Drink and feel better."

    "Thank you," said Hyson as he sipped on the cold beer and actually felt a bit refreshed.

    "Would you like to see magic?" asked Ru strangely.

    "Magic? Sure."

    Ru raised his hand and clicked his fingers. Instantly, there were thousands of fairy lights that lit up around them and above them. Hyson looked at this magic trick and his heart settled down. This magic trick worked very well. Especially since the lights were so beautiful.

    "Like it?"

    "I like it," answered Hyson.

    "Good," said Ru. "Now, you can see clearly."

    Hyson paused for a moment and then asked, "Did you do it?"

    "No," replied Ru. "These lights had been here already. And originally, they were lit up. I turned them off."

    "Why? They are so pretty."

    "But I am not fond of lights," answered Ru honestly. "Besides, with these lights, the moon won''t be as beautiful as before."

    Hyson looked up at the sky and he nodded to himself. Indeed, there was a difference now.

    Ru passed him the gloves saying, "Stop dawdling. Let''s enjoy ourte-night snack. It''s been a while since I had spicy crayfish from the food street!"

    "Oh," responded Hyson as he took the gloves and put them on. He opened the box of crayfish and the spicy smell hit him, awaking his taste buds. He was eager to eat some. He didn''t think he was hungry after eating so many things at the engagement banquet but now, he felt very hungry. But seeing Ru drinking lemonade, he had a weird expression, "Tree Spirit, you won''t try some beer?"

    Ru shook his head, "Nah. Thank you but I''m fine with the lemonade."

    "Really? I saw you working at the bar and I thought you''d be good at drinking," mentioned Hyson.

    "You wanna have a battle? I won''t lose the drinking game," answered Ru. "However, that doesn''t mean I like drinking. I only like drinking my peach wine and that too asionally. I like my lemonade a lot more."

    "Okay," said Hyson as he peeled the crayfish and ate with gusto.

    When he looked up, he found Ru peeling the crayfish in a leisurely manner but it looked very pleasing for some reason. The way he ate was even more elegant and looked like a cat.

    "By the way, when are you gonna stop calling me tree spirit?"

    Hyson smiled, "When I find a better name for you?"

    "Why? Ru isn''t a good name?"

    "It''s good. But I don''t wanna call it."

    "You''re very picky," said Ru. "I have plenty of names. Do you want to pick one of them?"

    "Plenty of names?" repeated Hyson.

    Ru nodded, "Yeah. Why? Something wrong with that?"

    "You don''t think there is anything wrong with that?" asked Hyson. "Now, I''m even doubting if your name really is Ru."

    Ru chuckled, "Rx. It''s true that Ru isn''t my full name but that''s how everyone knows me. Should I reintroduce myself? Hi! I''m Ximen Ruxue! A pleasure to meet you!"

    "Ximen Ruxue?" repeated Hyson slowly, thinking of something unknown.

    "Don''t say it louder. No one calls me by that name anyway."

    "On what?"

    "On different factors," replied Ru. "I''ll give you two scenarios. You tell me after that if deception is "Don''t you think that''s a feminine name?" asked Hyson.

    "What''s wrong with a feminine name?" asked Ru.

    Hyson pursed his lips and then shook his head, "There is nothing wrong with it. Sorry. I was thinking too much." He really had to give his mind some break and stop thinking so much about everything.

    "You have a lot to think about tonight, kid!"

    "Hey! You also keep calling me a kid. I''m not a kid." He was getting worked up at being called a kid by Ru again and again. Especially since the person in front of him didn''t even look old enough to call or treat him like a kid.

    "My bad! It''s just that you''re closer to my younger brother''s age and since I raised him as a kid, I can''t help thinking of you as one too." Ru''s expression of epting his wrong was sincere and Hyson could tell that what he said was true. And it suddenly made him feel a little better too.

    "I suddenly don''t like the feeling of being a kid even though I have always enjoyed it. It must be because we have a new kid in the family and I have lost my throne now."

    "Wanna cry?"

    Hyson shook his head, "No. What''s there to cry about? I havee to ept that I am no longer the youngest baby in the family. I''ll just get used to it with time." He suddenly paused as he stopped eating the crayfish too. He looked lost as he said, "But you are right. I do have a lot to think about tonight. You know what was really bothering me all this while?"

    "Tell me about it."

    "You really wanna know?" asked Hyson. "Aren''t you tired of me talking?"

    "I''m a very good listener. You''d be surprised," said Ru. "So, don''t worry about it. Just say it. Sharing will help you."

    Hyson didn''t hesitate any more and told Ru honestly, "Actually, I was thinking about something Director Jade said to me after my rejection." Seeing Ru listening to him, he went on, "She said couldn''t I just deceive her a little bit? I was wondering if I should have. Would it be worth it though? Deception. What do you think?"

    "What do I think?" asked Ru. "That depends actually."

    "On what?"

    "On different factors," replied Ru. "I''ll give you two scenarios. You tell me after that if deception is worth it or not."

 Chapter 1140 Ladder Of Lies

    Chapter 1140 Ladder Of Lies

    "Let''s say there are two people, Person Y, and Person Z," Ru went onnguidly as his eating movements didn''t pause at all.

    "Are we looking for X?" asked Hyson yfully.

    Ru looked up at him and said, "No, we aren''t."

    "Okay," he responded and put a finger on his lips to indicate that he won''t interrupt anymore. In fact, he didn''t mean to do it earlier but he just couldn''t stop himself from speaking up.

    "So, where was I?" Ru ignored him and got back to the topic. "In the first scenario, Person Y confessed her feelings to Person Z. Person Z didn''t have any feelings for her, so he rejected her coldly so as not to leave a doubt that if she tried harder, she''d be able to get him. But a weekter when he was busy in his life feeling content, he heard that Person Y died since she was terminally ill."

    "What?" Hyson was shocked to hear this end of it.

    "Person Z was left feeling remorseful that before her death, thest memory he gave Person Y was of his cold rejection. And this memory followed him for life."

    Hyson was left staring at Ru, not knowing how to react right now.

    Ru didn''t pay attention to his mood as he went on, "In the second scenario, after the confession, Person Z told her a sweet lie that he also loved her. And for the next week, he deceived her but made her happy. So, when Person Y closed her eyes, she had a content smile on her face."

    Hyson took a deep breath with a serious expression on his face.

    "Now, you tell me, Hyson. If you''re Person Z and you knew that Person Y is dying. What will you choose?"

    Hyson contemted those words over and over again but he still couldn''te to a definite answer. No matter, which one he chose, he felt like someone would be wronged. What was he to do in that situation?

    "What about you?" Hyson asked Ru in return. "What would you choose if you had been in the same situation?"

    "I don''t know," answered Ru honestly which surprised Hyson. "Why are you so surprised? Do you think every question has an answer in this world? Not all questionse with a definite answer in this world. So, you are allowed to say that you don''t know." Hyson fell silent again. "In fact, in the first scenario, Person Z was just being honest with her and with himself. Yes, he hurt her but he didn''t do anything to wrong himself. He didn''t think he did anything wrong until he learned that Person Y was no more. In the second scenario, he deceived her and he deceived himself. Maybe Person Y died with a content smile on her face but what''s the guarantee that she didn''t see through that lie?"

    "Maybe she did but she didn''t feel the need to correct that lie," mentioned Hyson.

    "Exactly. Because deception can be very addictive. Deception is nothing more than a sweet lie. It''s sweet, it''s very sweet like honey, and can bring youfort and sce. However, beneath its sharine facade lies a bittersweet betrayal. Some people lose them selves in these sweet deceptions and don''t wanna open their eyes for life. Why? Because if they did, their whole world will crumble down."

    Hyson did agree with those words very much so he didn''t interrupt and let Ru continue.

    "Have you seen the victims of domestic violence?"

    Hyson nodded his head.

    "Those are the people who have epted the deceptive world they live in. Even when you try to help them, they keep going back to the same person. Why? Because the preparatory has constructed his deception beautifully. After every beating, they get on their knees to apologize like good people and beg for forgiveness and promise to never do it again. But the victims forget that if apology could make every criminal change, there would be no need for the police or courts out there."

    "So, in the end, you don''t like deception, right?" asked Hyson.

    "Wrong!" said Ru. "I''m someone who grew up in a deception and I love it tooo. I have deceived the whole world in my life but I never deceive myself. So, if you get to the point where you have to deceive your own self for someone else'' feelings, just ask yourself if that''s really what you want to do? Because once you give up on yourself, there will be no going back." Taking a pause, he took a sip of the lemonade before adding, "In the first scenario, I should you the reality of life. It''s bitter but it''s life as it should be. In the second scenario, it''s about how we tend to take the help of lies just to make this bitter life a little sweeter. But sweetness is always fleeting in life. You just ate the chocte, can you still taste the sweetness?"

    Hyson opened his opened and then shook his head, "No."

    "Exactly. Once you stopped eating the chocte, the sweetness is gone in a little while. It doesn''t even linger on your tonger. What makes you think lies would linger in your life for good?"

    "I agree with everything," said Hyson. "However, did you have to choose such a cruel scenario?"

    "How is it cruel? Just because Person Z died? Do you think you''re an immortal? Are you gonna live forever? Death is also part of the bitter truth of life. How can you even forget it?"

    Hyson immediately shut up and sighed, "Sorry. I get it now."

    "Good. Don''t ask such stupid questions again in life. You could have deceived her today but could you do it tomorrow and the days toe too? There is no such thing as a single lie. Once you start, you have to make adder of those lies and climb on it too!"

    Hyson smiled at that and nodded his head, "And once any one of those lies is caught, you''ll fall down from thatdder."

    "Bingo!"

 Chapter 1141 [Bonus chapter] Big Family

    Chapter 1141 [Bonus chapter] Big Family

    "Thank you for listening and for sharing your thoughts too," said Hyson sincerely.

    "Don''t even mention it," replied Ru. "Now, hurry up and eat. It''s already cold now."

    Hyson also focused his attention on eating the crayfish with a light expression this time around. Now, he had nothing on his mind. He just felt like he wasted too much time thinking tonight. His mind must be so tired too.

    "I just noticed," started Hyson once he finished eating and took off his gloves. "Your surname is Ximen? Isn''t your n the Xia n?"

    "Xia n is my mother''s family. That''s where I grew up," answered Ru.

    "By the way, what really is your identity? Why do you need so many bodyguards?"

    "Didn''t I tell you that they aren''t here to protect me?" asked Ru. "This young master doesn''t need their help. Have you seen such leisurely bodyguards?"

    "I haven''t," answered Hyson honestly.

    "That''s because they aren''t bodyguards in the first ce. They might be called shadow guards but they are in fact, my distant cousins."

    "All of them?"

    "Yeah, all of them. We have a big n, okay? Everyone is rted in one way or another. They just are here to keep an eye on me."

    "Then if my Yanyan marries your uncle, would I get to see your big n?"

    "I doubt that," replied Ru. "You might see some people who are willing toe out of their seclusion."

    "What about the rest?"

    "Didn''t I tell you it''s almost a n of monks? Why would they want toe out?"

    "How does it feel living in a big n?" asked Hyson. "I grew up with my mum. There was only her and me in the family. So, I''m kind of curious about big families like yours."

    "You are no worse than your best friend,"mented Ru. "You both are masters of asking questions. You don''t even take a break."

    "Who told you to be so easygoing?" retorted Hyson not at all feeling embarrassed about his behavior.

    "Cough!"

    Just after his words fell, he heard several coughs around himing from the darkness. This time, he knew there were people around so he wasn''t scared or shocked out of his mind at all. But he was still surprised.

    "What happened to them? Was their crayfish too spicy? Why are they coughing so badly?"

    Ru gave him a strange look, "Nothing happened to them. They just can''t digest the fact that you think I''m easygoing."

    "Aren''t you?"

    "You are rted to my future aunt, so this young master is still being nice. Or else, I don''t think people would call me easygoing."

    "I think you are though. You''re so casual about life too and I haven''t seen you serious yet too."

    "See? You fell for the deception too. Just because I like keeping a smirk on my face doesn''t mean I''m an angel at heart. Just like how your optimism hides a lot of your bitter memories."

    Hyson froze when he heard that and didn''t continue this topic.

    "You didn''t answer though. How does it feel like to live in a big n?" he asked again.

    "It''s not that bad. When I was young I had a lot of lectures from morning till nightfall. There was always someone waiting to teach me something. There are a lot of rules but thankfully, I never followed them. But you still have to remember all those rules and if you make a minor mistake, you have to copy those rules too in the ancestral hall. There are a lot of people so they have different personalities too and different expertise too. There is a lot to say but one thing is for certain."

    "That is?"

    "Once you go back, it feels like home," answered Ru. "Because in that ce, I can just be Ru. No matter how many identities I have outside, there, I''ll just be Ru. I am allowed to be myself and no one will say anything about that. No one would try to change what I am. So, I still love a big family."

    Hysom smiled knowingly when he heard that. Because he felt the same way when he came to the Xiang manor. He might be an idol outside but at home, he was just the little prince of the Xiang family who was allowed to be as childish as he wanted.

    "I understand that feeling," said Hyson. "I also feel the same whenever I go to the Xiang family. Even if we aren''t rted by blood. I feel the same as what you said."

    "The ce that makes you feel like you can be yourself is home and the people who ept you as who you are, are family. What does blood have to do with it?"

    "I agree," smiled Hyson.

    "I thought you''d sing a song for your best friend at this engagement party. Aren''t you a big star?"

    Hyson didn''t even blink as he answered, "Oh, I had that idea but I stopped myself."

    "Why?"

    "If I sang a song for her, I''d be taking her limelight and tonight was her night. I couldn''t just take the spotlight. So, I went easy on her and decided not to sing."

    "Interesting thought,"mented Ru.

    Hyson was surprised by that reaction and asked, "You don''t think I sounded narcissistic?"

    "Narcissism? You can''t possibly be better at it than me. There is a reason why I''m known as the proud peacock. So, I really don''t think you sounded narcissist. In fact, even if you are being narcissist, what''s wrong with it? Being confident in yourself is good. There is nothing even wrong with overconfidence as long as you think you can carry its weight."

    "You keep making me ponder over your words."

    "I''m giving you life lessons," said Ru.

    "So, should I take out a notebook to take notes?"

    "There is no need for that," said Ru waving his hand offhandedly. "Don''t be so old-fashioned. Don''t you have a phone? You can record my lectures. No need to tire yourself by taking notes. Besides, my voice will sound better than your handwriting will look."

    Hyson suddenly felt like he should believe this person. He was really narcissistic like he had never seen before and yet he couldn''t argue because it was a fact that this person''s voice was too pleasing.

 Chapter 1142 Privilege

    Chapter 1142 Privilege

    As Shui Xian woke up in the morning, he found Raelle nestled in his arms, her sleeping form exuding an ethereal grace. Her body temperature was cold and yet the warmth of her presence enveloped him.

    Gently, he traced the contours of her face, marveling at the softness of her skin and the peacefulness that radiated from within. It was rare for him to wake up and find her sleeping since she was used to waking up on time.

    "Are you done?"

    Shui Xian''s hand froze as he was tracing her lips when he heard her voice.

    "You''re awake?" he asked.

    "I am awake."

    "Since when?"

    "Since the beginning."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips but he wasn''t embarrassed at being caught. Why would he be? He was with his wife. Besides, he had traced every part of her body with his lips, how would tracing her face with his finger could be any different?

    Raelle opened her lips and bit his finger that was right beside her lips.

    Shui Xian hissed, "Wifey, are you hungry?"

    As her hot tongue rolled around his finger, he cursed under his breath. Now, he didn''t know about her but he was very hungry. He swallowed with difficulty and controlled himself.

    "Why didn''t you get up since you''re awake?" he asked trying to ignore the sensation have a rey? We can y likest night all over again."

    that came from his finger. He wholeheartedly believed now that fingers were connected to one''s heart. Why else would his heart be getting so restless from her teasing?

    Raelle let his finger go and put her head on his bare chest and rubbed her face against him making Shui Xian feel a bit itchy.

    "Why can''t Ize around? I didn''t want to get up so I didn''t. Any problem with that?"

    "No problem," came his reply. He wrapped his arm around her waist even more tightly as he added, "How can I have any problem? I can''t even exin how happy I am to see you in my arms when I wake up. It''s not every day that my wife gives me the chance to appreciate her morning beauty." He took a pause and asked, "Darling, are you tired? Or sore anywhere?"

    "Why would I be?" came her muffled voice. Then she raised her head and put her chin on his chest as she looked at him, "I have all the energy in the world. Do you wanna have a rey? We can y likest night all over again."

    Shui Xian coughed lightly when he heard that, "I don''t think so."

    "Why not?"

    "It''s early in the morning," reminded Shui Xian.

    "So?" she responded as her hand sneaked around on his chest and went up to his chin. She rubbed his slight stubble as she teased him and said, "It''s just you and me here. Who cares whether it''s early morning or midnight?"

    "Stop making trouble," said Shui Xian. "Last night, it was too rough. Let''s take a break."

    "Oh." She responded and didn''t argue but her hand didn''t stop making trouble as she started ying with his sensitive ear making Shui Xian almost lose his sanity. But he had to remind himself that they really yed wildlyst night from the bathtub to the bed to the living room. He couldn''t think of a ce in this presidential suite where they hadn''t done it. So, he really had to hold back and not be as reckless as his wife.

    "When do you have time?" asked Raelle.

    "I have all the time in the world for you."

    "Don''t," she said. "I''m serious. Let''s check our schedule and find a time. I''ll take you to the ce where I grew up."

    "That''s very tempting," he said. "Okay. I''ll confirm the time with you. But are you going back to work?"

    "Or else? You want me to be a rice bug at home?"

    Shui Xian chuckled, "Although I don''t mind raising this rice bug, it doesn''t mean I want you to stop doing what you love. You can do whatever you want. I''m just asking when you''re joining the work again."

    "From Monday," she answered. "I have already troubled Cloe a lot these days because of my absence. It''s time to get back to work properly. I asked her to find me a new assistant. It''ll also lessen the burden on her and allow her to go on dates. I can''t possibly take away her personal life just because of work. It was different before since she was single and doing overtime was better for her mental health than to go back to her apartment alone. Now, she isn''t alone so I can''t take all of her time."

    "What an enlightened boss you are,"plimented Shui Xian sincerely. "I suddenly feel like I have been too harsh to Ma Jin. Maybe I should give that guy a break too. He had a lot of fights with his girlfriend because he couldn''t give her time because of work."

    "Yes, you should give him a break," agreed Raelle. "Also, you should give him a bonus for not running away all this while under your torment."

    Shui Xian rubbed his nose guiltily, "In fact, he didn''t run away only because his father was B¨¤''s subordinate and his family got a lot of help from B¨¤. He feels indebted. Otherwise, I think he''d have really run away because of my attitude."

    "Then you should thank B¨¤ too," she suggested.

    "I have a lot to thank B¨¤ for," said Shui Xian as he looked at her.

    It was such a peaceful morning after a wild night and Shui Xian was''s heart was overwhelmed with a sense of gratitude as he held the treasure of his life in his arms. As the morning light bathed the room, he whispered the words of adoration, promise of love and devotion, making her almost annoyed by his honeyed words.

    He felt like his sense of purpose was renewed once again afterst night. They became an engaged couple in front of the world. And he recognized once again that it was a privilege for him to be able to hold this woman in his arms.

 Chapter 1143 [Bonus chapter] Not My Concern?

    Chapter 1143 [Bonus chapter] Not My Concern?

    Xiang Wai was yawning as she pulled open the door to walk out but seeing her brother standing outside like a statue, she jumped.

    "Ge, you scared me!"

    "Major Wai is losing her touch,"mented Xiang Weimin without looking at her. His eyes were still staring at the door in front of him.

    "I''m not losing my touch. It''s you, Lieutenant Colonel Weimin who is acting like a ghost early in the morning," she retorted without backing down. Wouldn''t she lose her image if people heard that she got scared by her own brother? She refused to ept that! Seeing how he didn''t respond and was still intently staring at the other door, Xiang Wai''s eyes narrowed. She stared at the room number and had a look of understanding in her eyes. "Ge, how long have you been standing here for?"

    "None of your concern," replied Xiang Weimin indifferently.

    "How is it, not my concern?" she asked and went over to look at his face. Looking at the think dark circles, he almost looked like the national treasure aka panda! How could she not understand it at all? "Ge, you didn''t sleep at all? Are you that eager to talk to Raelle? Last night was her engagement banquet. Just so you know, this couple won''t being out so soon today."

    "Why? Isn''t Raelle always on time?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "Tsk. No wonder you''re so single,"mented Xiang Wai. "Rx. She isn''t gonna run anywhere. Why are you so impatient?"

    "Oh, I know my sister won''t run away. But who can guarantee that my son won''t run away?" asked Xiang Weimin seriously.

    Xiang Wai paused and thought that what he said actually made sense. If Justin ran away, they couldn''t stop it. "So, what are you doing here? Go to his room and wait for him. Once hees outside, you kidnap him and run away."

    "Don''t tell anyone you''re Lieutenant Colonel Xiang Weimin''s sister," said Xiang Weimin. "I''ll be embarrassed otherwise."

    me. It''ll work."

    Xiang Weimin put his hand on the side of her head and pushed her away, "Go away. Xiang Wai gave him an angry look, "How can you say that about your sister? I''m helping you here."

    "I don''t need this kind of help," said Xiang Weimin.

    Xiang Wai rolled her eyes at him, "Ge, you didn''t understand my meaning. It seems I used the wrong wording. It''s like this, you go and once Justin sees you, he''ll want to stick to you. Once that happens, it''s up to when Tang Hebe can take him back." Xiang Weimin finally settled his eyes on her and she patted her chest confidently, "Believe me. It''ll work."

    Xiang Weimin put his hand on the side of her head and pushed her away, "Go away. Let me wait for Raelle. Don''t disturb me."

    Xiang Wai was pushed away and made a face at her brother, "You just don''t have any trust in me. That''s quite hurtful, Ge!"

    "I really don''t have any trust," responded Xiang Weimin. "Let''s not forget that you also kept me in the dark, even though you knew already that Justin is my son."

    "Ge!" Xiang Wai held his arm and shook it trying to act coquettish which by the way, didn''t look very convincing but it did amuse Xiang Weimin even though he tried hard to keep a stern expression. "I didn''t mean to do that. I was asked not to say anything to you until everything is confirmed. Besides, what if we were wrong and I said anything recklessly to you? Wouldn''t you be happy for nothing?"

    "Don''t make excuses with me," said Xiang Weimin. "You didn''t even trust me. You also thought I was a bastard who would sleep with someone and run away after that?"

    Xiang Wai scratched her head guiltily at that since she was guilty about this. Even if she believed in her brother, she still had a small doubt in her heart.

    "But then Raelle is also guilty," said Xiang Wai. "She didn''t tell you anything either. She learned about it almost at the same time as me. But did shee to tell you anything, no!"

    "She has no responsibility to tell me anything," responded Xiang Weimin. "I haven''t been a brother to her. I only met her this year. How long and strong our bond had been over the years, Wai? When have we ever had secrets between us? Have I ever lied to you? When have I not helped you out of your troubles?"

    Xiang Wai looked down and didn''t say anything. She was feeling guiltier now because what he said was right. She didn''t even think about it. Indeed, Raelle had no responsibility towards both of them. She never got anything from either of them so she wasn''t obliged to tell them anything. But the bond between her and Weimin was different. Even if one was sent to his father and the other to her mother after the divorce, there had never been a distance between them.

    He was always there for her.

    "Okay, I''m sorry. It''s my fault," she said in a small voice. "I shouldn''t have had the mood to see your joke. I should have told you everything and not kept you in the dark."

    Seeing her like this, Xiang Weimin shook his head and rapped on her head, "Stop making that face. Do you want to cry in front of me? Do you think crying suits you? You are ugly enough. Don''t make it worse by crying."

    Xiang Wai punched his arm, "If I''m ugly, you are also my brother. How much better do you think you can be?"

    "Much better than a crybaby like you," he shot back.

    "I''m not a crybaby!" she shouted.

    Xiang Weiminughed at her explosion and Xiang Wai''s lips also twitched before she smiled along with him.

    "Ge, don''t be angry with me. Okay? Aren''t you my best brother?"

    Xiang Weimin rubbed her head, "Who is angry with you? Life would have been easier if I was able to be angry with you."

    "Hehe..."

    Suddenly, the sound of the door opening was heard and both of them paused but as they looked at the person who came out, both of them had different reactions.

 Chapter 1144 Ran Away

    Chapter 1144 Ran Away

    The door that they both were expecting to open was still closed. It was the door of Xiang Wai''s room that opened and the person who appeared was Zhai Yanjun. Xiang Wai took a step away from her brother while Xiang Weimin narrowed his eyes dangerously at Zhai Yanjun.

    "What are you doing in my sister''s room?" asked Xiang Weimin

    Zhai Yanjun cleared his throat and called out, "Weimin Ge!"

    "I asked you what are you doing in my sister''s room?" Xiang Weimin repeated himself. Xiang Wai opened her mouth to say something but Xiang Wai held up his hand to stop her. "You stay quiet. Just because you''re an adult, I gave you enough freedom in life. Where did it lead you? Do I need to remind you how many times you came to look for me crying?"

    Xiang Wai lowered her head and didn''t dare to look at her brother.

    "Weimin Ge," started Zhai Yanjun. "You can calm down. We both have changed and matured."

    "I highly doubt that," said Xiang Weimin.

    Zhai Yanjun rubbed his nose, "Don''t worry. Nothing happenedst night. We are taking it very slowly. It''s just that Wai and I ended up sleeping while chattingst night. But we were just chatting. I promise." He never felt like this as he was feeling right now standing in front of Xiang Weimin. Even though he had known Xiang Weimin all his life. Even when the rtionship between him and Wai was considered casual and secret, he never faced her as he was doing right now.

    For the first time, Zhai Yanjun felt like he should be more respectful to his brother-inw and should stop being cheeky. No matter how close he was to Xiang Weimin when it came to choosing, Xiang Weimin would choose Xiang Wai without a doubt. After all, she was his sister.

    Last time, after breaking Xiang Wai''s heart, he only survived because, at that time, they were both in the wrong. And that''s why Xiang Weimin didn''t go out of his way to hold him ountable. But that didn''t mean he didn''t take chances to punch Zhai Yanjun over the years. Only now did Zhai Yanjun realize that those punches were for making Xiang Wai cry.

    He should be careful with this insidious brother-inw.

    Xiang Wai also nodded when Xiang Weimin looked at her, "Really. We were just chatting." Taking a pause, she added, "Besides, we are an official couple now. Everyone knows we are dating. No one would say anything even if something happened naturallyst night."

    "You try and I''ll show you how naturally you''ll get beaten too."

    Xiang Wai flinched, "Ge, you don''t love me anymore."

    "I''m done loving you." Then he pointed at Zhai Yanjun, "And didn''t you find someone else to love you now?"

    Xiang Wai poked Xiang Weimin''s arm, "How is that the same? You are my brother. How can Yanjunpare to you? No way. Not possible."

    "Not possible at all, brother-inw," agreed Zhai Yanjun.

    "You better not step out of your boundaries. Who is your brother-inw? Did I allow you to call me that?"

    Zhai Yanjun felt like he should stay silent because he felt like he was standing in front of a cannon right now. Xiang Weimin was certainly in the mood for a fight and if he really ticked him off, he might get beaten up as well.

    Xiang Weimin stared at him again and asked, "Did you know?"

    "What?" asked Zhai Yanjun in confusion.

    "About my son."

    "Uhh..." Xiang Wai was trying to gesture Zhai Yanjun to not speak but Zhai Yanjun was under a lot of pressure right now. How could he dare hide anything in front of Xiang Weimin so he ended up nodding, "I knew."

    Xiang Wai closed her eyes and facepalmed herself.

    Xiang Weimin turned to her, "You told him?"

    "Ge, listen to me!"

    Xiang Weimin humphed and looked away.

    "Why is it so lively here so early in the morning?"

    The three of them stopped and looked towards Raelle who was leaning against the door frame with her arms crossed in front of her chest. She had been standing here for five minutes but surprisingly, the three of them didn''t even notice.

    So, she had to speak up. She didn''t want to. The scene looked quite entertaining but she still spoke up.

    "Raelle, you''re up!" said Xiang Wai.

    "I have been up for a while now," answered Raelle and that was the truth. Just because she didn''t go for a run didn''t mean she was sleeping. Yes, shezed around and teased her husband on the bed for an hour or so, but she definitely wasn''t sleeping. She got dressed on her usual time and was ready to go down for breakfast.

    Shui Xian suggested that they should eat in the room, but she told him to go down to have breakfast with everyone since she already learned that no one left the hotelst night. So, wasn''t it good to have breakfast with the whole family?

    But who knew once she''d opened the door, she''d get to see these three people outside her door.

    "All of you seem to be having quite some fun this early," said Raelle. "I shouldn''t disturb you all."

    "No!" came the voice of Xiang Wai and Zhai Yanjun who both didn''t want to stay with Xiang Weimin right now. It was dangerous to do so. The person who could calm down Xiang Weimin and distract him from the current topic was Raelle so they both looked at Raelle with a pleading look.

    "Not having fun?" asked Raelle.

    Xiang Wai looked at her brother beforeughing awkwardly, "Fun. How can it not be fun to spend time with my lovely Ge? But Ge is looking for you. He has something to talk to you about. So, Yanjun and I''ll take our leave now!" She slid to Zhai Yanjun''s side and whispered, "Run! Are you waiting for Ge to beat us both?"

    Zhai Yanjun reacted and with Xiang Wai, he ran away.

 Chapter 1145 Cant Do It

    Chapter 1145 Can''t Do It

    Xiang Weimin''s lips twitched slightly when he looked at Xiang Wai and Zhai Yanjun running away as if he was gonna eat them both if they stayed for a little while longer. He was obviously just messing around with them but he didn''t think he was still able to scare them away.

    "You scared them away, Lieutenant," said Raelle.

    Xiang Weimin turned his head to look at Raelle and shrugged, "That wasn''t my intention. But it''s not my fault that they have weak hearts."

    "It''d be right to say that your opinion matters to both of them a lot. That''s why you can faze them. If your opinion meant nothing to them, they wouldn''t be guilty or embarrassed in front of you. After all, they didn''tmit a crime."

    Xiang Weimin observed Raelle''s nk face for a moment before he nodded, "Indeed. I agree with that."

    "Did you steal diamondsst night or chickens?" asked Raelle.

    "Huh?"

    "You have quite some dark circles," mentioned Raelle and Xiang Weimin rubbed his face.

    "I neither stole diamonds nor chickens," said Xiang Weimin. "I just had a lot on my mind so I couldn''t sleepst night properly."

    "You have something to talk to me about?" asked Raelle.

    "Yes," answered Xiang Weimin.

    At this moment Shui Xian came out from behind Raelle and said, "Shall we go? For breakfast?" Then he looked up and noticed Xiang Weimin. Well, it was hard to ignore this tall person''s presence but who told Shui Xian to only have eyes for his wife? How could anyone else be in his eyes?

    "You go down first," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian was not happy with this and looked at Xiang Weimin with some dissatisfaction on his face which he didn''t even try to hide at all. In turn, Xiang Weimin smiled at Shui Xian making thetter even madder.

    Raelle touched his hand and said, "Go and wait for me. I''ll be right there with you soon."

    "Oh," responded Shui Xian and left first.

    Raelle moved aside and said to Xiang Weimin, "Would you like toe inside to talk or we can walk while talking?"

    Xiang Weimin thought about it a bit before saying, "Let''s sit down and talk."

    "Okay," agreed Raelle and walked inside with Xiang Weimin walking behind her. "What is it about?" asked Raelle once they sat down, without wasting any time. After all, she just told Shui Xian that she''ll right there with him. How can she let him wait for long?

    "Don''t you know?" asked Xiang Weimin as he rubbed his hands together a bit nervously. For the first time in his life, he was sweating so much without running. He didn''t think it was possible before this day. He wasn''t even this nervous when he first introduced himself to Raelle.

    "Why go round and round? Can''t we talk straightforwardly?" asked Raelle. "But I guess you''re here because of Justin."

    Xiang Weimin looked up and nodded his head.

    "So, you heard?"

    "I did," answered Xiang Weimin.

    "How did it feel?" asked Raelle with genuine curiosity. "How did it feel to suddenly have a son?"

    "Unbelievable at first," told Xiang Weimin. "And the more it sank in, the more it feels... happy?"

    Raelle nodded her head and didn''t continue this topic. "Why are you here to look for me? Can''t be to share your happiness with me, I believe."

    Xiang Weimin wiped his hand on his pants and said, "No, it''s not about that."

    "Then? Do you want his custody?" asked Raelle.

    Xiang Weimin paused and stared into Raelle''s eyes as he asked seriously, "What if I do? Would you help?"

    "No," answered Raelle honestly. "I definitely won''t help you. The reason is also very simple. Although you''re my brother, I won''t take your side on everything. Justin''s birth mother didn''t give your name to Justin. I can''t force Tang Hebe to give her son to you. And let''s keep in mind, right now, Justin is Tang Hebe''s son and he always will be. It won''t change no matter what you do."

    Xiang Weimin chuckled, "This whole family has the same answer. Don''t you want a nephew?"

    "That''s an entirely different matter," said Raelle. "But I still won''t allow you to snatch Justin from his mother. It''s not right and I don''t agree. And Lieutenant, you think you can do something when I disagree to it?"

    Xiang Weimin pursed his lips and shook his head, "I don''t want to go against you. And my idea isn''t to fight for the custody either." He was silent for a moment and asked, "You won''t say that I''m irresponsible for leaving my son outside for so long?"

    "Why should I?" asked Raelle. "It doesn''t seem like your fault."

    Xiang Weimin''s eyes suddenly brightened when he heard that. Sincest night he was really feeling like something was stuck in his throat which he couldn''t swallow or throw out. But now, he was soothed when he heard that from Raelle.

    "You really think it''s not my fault?"

    "You and Chi Xirui, both were adults when it happened. It''s wrong to say that you have the whole responsibility since the matter of Justin not being in our family has more to do with Chi Xirui than your irresponsibility. She never told you anything about Justin. How would you know? Shouldn''t our concern be why she didn''t tell you? What was holding her back exactly?"

    Xiang Weimin''s smile became sincere and he said, "It''s still our Raelle who is thinking right. Thank you for believing in me."

    "I have a good eye for people," said Raelle. "If I don''t believe in you, wouldn''t I be doubting my own judgement? I don''t like that." She straightened up and added, "Now, brother, what''s your n? You said you don''t want Justin''s custody that means you must have thought of something. You don''t seem like someone who would be happy to abandon your son like this."

    "I don''t want to abandon him. I can''t do it at all."

 Chapter 1146 [Bonus chapter] Will Be Okay

    Chapter 1146 [Bonus chapter] Will Be Okay

    "That''s what I thought," said Raelle.

    "I don''t want custody but I do want Justin to know that I''m his father. I can''t let him grow up without a father anymore. I have seen his dependence on me and you must have noticed it too. It''s because hecks a father figure in his life. I don''t want him to miss out on anything in his life."

    Raelle nodded her head as she listened to him attentively.

    "However, I''m not sure how to do it. Because it''s a fact that Tang Hebe is now Justin''s legal guardian. We all decided that we''ll first talk to her about this. It''s not right to keep her in the dark. That''s not even our family''s style. We don''t do sneaky things. And since we are upright people, it''s only right to let Tang Hebe know everything that we have learned until now."

    Raelle agreed with this wholeheartedly. No matter what rtionship she had with Tang Hebe, she didn''t want to take away the light of her life. Besides, being honest was just in her blood and it was the same for the whole family. That''s why they all decided collectively that it was better to tell Tang Hebe everything honestly than hide anything from her.

    Hiding won''t do them any good.

    "I understand that," said Raelle. "However, I still don''t understand why you''re here, looking for me. You can''t possibly be here just to share the decision of the family with me just to make me feel like a part of the family, right?"

    "Of course, not," replied Xiang Weimin. "I was hoping you could go with me."

    "To Tang Hebe?"

    "Yes," he nodded.

    "Why? Do you think I''m easy to talk to?"

    "No," he shook his head. "There are several reasons for this decision. Firstly, you are the person who is most familiar with Tang Hebe."

    "You do know how she and I are rted, right?"

    "I know," he said. "However, I also know that you still have a fairly good rtionship with Tang Hebe. You''re also very reasonable and there is no such thing as jealousy between you two. I also think, Miss Tang would be willing to listen to you a lot more. If I rashly went to tell her anything, her first thought would be that I''m trying to snatch her son which isn''t my intention and I don''t wanna scare her too. What if she started hiding after the scare?"

    "True, you can be very scary."

    "Not more than you," he pointed out.

    "What''s the second reason?" she asked patiently.

    "I''m not good at talking so I won''t be able to exin everything clearly to her and might make matters worse. However, you have always been very good with words."

    "I agree with this one! I don''t trust your eloquence either."

    "Thanks, sister!"

    "You''re most wee, brother!"

    Xiang Weimin shook his head, "So, do you agree?"

    "Since the whole family agreed, who am I to disagree here?" she asked. "Okay, I''ll do this."

    "Thank you!"

    "Not for you," added Raelle. "I''m doing it for Justin."

    Xiang Weimin smiled at that, "Then my son is very lucky to have such a considerate aunt."

    "Well, I was raised by Yanyan," Raelle reminded him. "Have you found a better aunt than her over the years?"

    "No way," answered Xiang Weimin truthfully. "No one can be better than our aunt Chenyan. So, of course, our Raelle who learned from aunt Chenyan can be only better than her and not worse."

    "I suddenly am doubting if your eloquence is really questionable or you''re pretending to be a pig to eat tigers."

    "What do you think?" he asked in return.

    "It doesn''t matter," she responded. "No pig can eat the tigers of my family."

    Xiang Weiminughed lightheartedly at that. Once she agreed to go with him, he felt like everything was okay now. He didn''t have to think so much.

    "Let''s go then."

    "What''s the hurry?" asked Raelle. "Have you eaten? No, have you even taken a shower this morning?"

    Xiang Weimin opened his mouth but didn''t answer.

    "Go and take a shower. Thene down for breakfast first. First you need to eat before getting the energy to face the day. Also, groom yourself properly. You look scarier with this disheveled look. I''m telling you, Tang Hebe has a weak heart. So, present your nicest side in front of her. Lower your voice and talk gently. We are not in the barracks. There is no need to look so serious."

    "I didn''t wanna say it but sister, you have the worst expression in our family."

    "So what? I''m also that much more beautiful than the rest of the family," she didn''t even blink as sheplimented herself to the heaven. "Everything is overlooked once a person is beautiful."

    "I so wanna disagree but I can''t," muttered Xiang Weimin to himself. Indeed, it was Raelle''s beautiful face that allowed people to overlook her nk expressions. How could he question the authenticity of her words? "But shouldn''t we hurry up? What if she left while I''m running around?"

    "So what?" asked Raelle. "Where can she run? At most, she''d go home? It''s not like I don''t know where she lives. Besides, isn''t it better to visit her home? Don''t rush and don''t be so forceful. I still have something to figure out. After I am done with that, I''ll take you to her. Also, with these heavy dark circles, I''m definitely not taking to talk with her. So, you better eat something and take a rest properly before thinking about anything else."

    Xiang Weimin was suddenly hit with the fact that he was facing the toughest nut of their family right now. He couldn''t have his way in front of Raelle. Only Raelle''s way would work here and he should just be obedient and follow her lead or else, it won''t end well with him.

    Okay, fine! He agreed that there shouldn''t be so much rush.

    He already knew about his son. Now, there was no point in being so impatient. Patience is a virtue. He should keep calm and just follow Raelle. Everything will be okay.

 Chapter 1147 Stinky Temper

    Chapter 1147 Stinky Temper

    When Shui Xian appeared at the restaurant alone, he heard someone''s annoying voice behind him, "Oh, what happened, Xian? Did you get abandoned the next day of your engagement? I knew it! How could anyone handle your stinky temper?"

    Shui Xian turned to face his ex-best friend and smiled which didn''t look like a smile at all. He wanted to smack Cui Xukun''s face right now. That gloating look was too irritating.

    "Are you talking about yourself?" asked Shui Xian. "My temper is still very likable. I wonder how Cloe is able to bear with yours."

    "Why don''t you try asking her?" suggested Cui Xukun as he hugged the waist of Cloe who appeared beside him. "Babes, you tell him. Am I good?"

    Cloe looked at her boyfriend and then at her boss'' husband. She almost rolled her eyes at these two. It wasn''t the first time she was facing this situation. She couldn''t understand why these two loved to poke each other so much. Maybe it was because of their old friendship but they were both stubborn enough to not acknowledge this friendship anymore.

    She felt a headacheing on once she faced them and didn''t want to deal with them or even be a part of their argument. So, she chose to avoid answering. "Xian, where is Chief?" she asked Shui Xian.

    "Her brother had something to say to her," answered Shui Xian in a bad mood.

    Cui Xukunughed out loud, "Tsk. Tsk. Master Xian is being bullied by his own brother-inw. Poor you!"

    Shui Xian gave him a look, "Are you itching for a beating?"

    Cui Xukun made a face at him but before he could say anything, his back was smacked so hard that he almost fell down. He had to hold the table to maintain his bnce and looked behind him. Seeing his own brother-inw, his lips twitched.

    "Sister, your husband just hit me!"

    Cui Xuqing held her kids'' hands as she walked over to their side. Right when they came, both Sammy and Xena ran to Cloe''s side and Cui Xuqing was free enough to listen to her brother''sin. Then she looked at her husband and shrugged, "So? Weren''t you gloating that Xiao Xian is being bullied by his brother-inw? Soren is just reminding you that Cloe isn''t alone."

    Cui Xukun gaped at his sister who loved him like her own kid. She suddenly abandoned him. He didn''t even feel this way when his sister first fell in love with Soren. Why was this happening now? Was he losing his position in his sister''s heart?

    "Sister!"

    "Don''t look for me. I can''t help you."

    "It''s still the admirable sister Qing whom I like the most in the Cui family," said Shui Xian feeling very happy with the turns of the event. Yes, he was very happy to see Cui Xukun''s predictement. Who asked this guy tough at him first?

    Cui Xuqing smiled at Shui Xian, "And it''s still Xiao Xian who is sister Qing''s favorite. But sister Qing is still very upset with you. I don''t care about what happened between you and Kun but how can you note to see sister Qing?"

    Shui Xian rubbed his head, "It''s not that I didn''t want to. I was just in a daze in the past decade."

    "Are you out of it now?"

    "Yes."

    "Happy?" she asked.

    "Very," he replied.

    Cui Xuqing''s smile deepened, "That''s good to know. So, when you have time,e look for me. We''ll go y tennis."

    "I''m all in!" agreed Shui Xian immediately. He thought that he''d just take this chance to make his wife leave her work and go out to do some outdoor activities too. After all, the only outdoor activity that Raelle had was her morning run.

    On the side, Cloe rubbed Xena and Sammy''s heads as they hugged her legs on each side. Then she looked at Soren who stood beside her now as if protecting her. She had aplicated look in her eyes as she looked at him right now. She thought about it for a while before she asked, "Are you gonna y the role of my brother now?"

    Soren turned to look at her, "Why can''t I? You and I have been friends for so long. I don''t think there is anything wrong with me ying the role of your brother. You should know, there is still someone to deal with your boyfriend. You are definitely not alone."

    Cloeughed, "Would your wife be okay with you bullying her brother?"

    "She''s fine," answered Soren. "She isn''t that unreasonable. She won''t take her brother''s side for everything. If she did, wouldn''t she have raised a spoiled brat? But as you can see, Xukun is still far from being spoiled." He lowered his voice and added, "In fact, it''s right to say that he had been oppressed by his sister and is very scared of her."

    Cloeughed even louder when she heard that. She found the rtionship between Cui Xukun and Cui Xuqing quite interesting. One was the elder sister but always yed the role of a father and mother because their parents were mostly absent. She did love her brother but that didn''t stop her from ordering her brother around.

    "Soren," called out Cloe.

    "Hm?"

    "Thank you for introducing me to this blind date."

    Soren shook his head with a smile on his face, "Don''t even mention it. I''m more than happy to make you join our family."

    "Aunt Cloe, wee to our family!"

    Cloe looked down at Xena and Sammy who said that in surprise. She crouched down in front of them, "Who told you to say that?"

    "No one," said Xena. And Sammy added, "It''s just that mom said you''ll be marrying uncle Kun and then you''ll be a part of our family. We''ll be able to see you whenever we want just as we can see uncle Kun. So, we are very happy to know that."

    Cloe''s heart warmed when she heard that and hugged these little ones, "Then I thank you for your warm wee."

 Chapter 1148 [Bonus chapter] Daydreaming

    Chapter 1148 [Bonus chapter] Daydreaming

    Cui Xukun stood there as he looked to one side where his girlfriend was happily chatting with his niece, nephew, and brother-inw. And on the other side was his ex-best friend chatting happily with his sister. Why did he suddenly feel so redundant right now?

    Cui Xukun took a deep breath to calm himself down.

    He just wanted to tease Shui Xian for being alone since Raelle wasn''t around and here he was the one left alone by his family. He felt like he should shed a few tears at how miserable his life was. But sadly, he couldn''t bring himself to do so.

    "I say, Soren, have you hired Cloe as a full-time nanny?" asked Shui Xian.

    "What the hell are you talking about?" asked Soren in return.

    "Your kids are always with Cloe," Shui Xian pointed out. "So, doesn''t it seem like it?"

    Soren gave him a look, "These little heartless beans have be too clingy with Cloe. How is it my fault? Don''t you think I''m also sad that this old father is forgotten?"

    Little Xena heard her father''s words and ran to his side and held his hand as she looked up at him, "Daddy, I love you!"

    Soren''s sadness was immediately blown away when he heard that and he leaned down to pick up his daughter in his arms as he said, "Daddy loves you too, my princess."

    Xena giggled as she heard that.

    Cui Xuqing facepalmed seeing this act as she said, "It took just those few words and you fell into your daughter''s hands. So much for being level-headed."

    Soren was suddenly shot by his own wife and he didn''t retort. He just smiled at her, "But it''s my daughter."

    "Don''t worry. I don''t expect anything great from you anyway," she gave him a disgusted look and walked away. Shui Xian followed her as she took a te and looked at the buffet, seeing what she wanted to eat this morning. "I''m telling you, Xian. If you have a daughter in the future, you have to make sure you are the one in control. Don''t let your daughter''s cuteness control you."

    Shui Xian suddenly thought about a daughter who looked like Raelle and a strange expectation arose in his heart. He was so excited that his face flushed. He couldn''t help it. He was really eager to have an adorable daughter who looked like the mini version of Raelle. But as Cui Xuqing said, would he really be able to control himself in front of the mini version of Raelle? He couldn''t even control himself in front of Raelle.

    Seeing his expression, Cui Xuqing tsked, "Herees another daughter fool. You men can''t change. Just don''t raise a spoiled princess."

    Shui Xian scratched his nose, "You don''t have to worry about that sister Qing. I might lose my mind but my wife won''t."

    Cui Xuqing was suddenly reminded that his wife was Raelle and sheughed unkindly. "Indeed. How did I forget that? You can be foolish but Raelle is a person who won''t fall for any cuteness. I can rest assured."

    Shui Xian also smiled awkwardly. He might really pamper his daughter and turn her into a willful princess but Raelle won''t let that happen. He was suddenly a bit scared. What if his cute daughter was also thrown into the military to train at a young age by the Xiang family? After all, it was all toomon in that family.

    Raelle also grew up following military rules. She just didn''t go to the barracks because she didn''t like crowds.

    So now, he was wondering if it was better to have a son? At least, he won''t feel that heartbroken seeing his son going through the hellish military training.

    "Ge, why are you standing here alone? What are you daydreaming?"

    Shui Xian was brought back from his thoughts by Amiah''s voice and he turned his face to look but was startled. "What the hell? Why do you look like that?"

    "What''s wrong with me?" asked Amiah in a hoarse voice. It seemed like she had a sore throat. She was wearing dark sunsses that covered half of her face and she even wrapped a scarf around her neck which hid the other half of her face. Even the clothes on her body were baggy and didn''t look like her style at all.

    He suddenly wondered if he recognized the right person.

    "What''s up with the sunsses?" he asked weirdly.

    "It''s called fashion," she replied.

    "Do I look that easy to fool?" asked Shui Xian as he observed her closely.

    Amiah pushed him away, "Don''t ask. Just pretend that you are fooled. I said it''s fashion. So, it''s fashion. No arguments."

    Shui Xian frowned, "You won''t tell me what happened?"

    "I drank too much," said Amiah. "So, now I''m not looking very well. Just stop asking now."

    Shui Xian actually didn''t believe it very much but it sounded reasonable too. He knew that she drank too muchst night and she must have vomited a lot too. It was possible that she felt ufortable now.

    "Then eat something light now," said Shui Xian. "And stop drinking so recklessly."

    "Okay, okay. No more lectures," said Amiah impatiently. "Why are you standing here?"

    "Oh, I was with sister Qing," Shui Xian looked around and saw that while he was daydreaming Cui Xuqing had already moved to another ce. "Anyway, I suddenly thought about something and couldn''t extract myself from my thoughts for a while."

    "You take care of yourself more," said Amiah as she gave him a strange look.

    "You don''t have to give your own brother that look," said Shui Xian. "Come, I''ll find you something light to eat."

    "I can do it myself," said Amiah as she pushed him away. "You go and see what you''re eating. Also, don''t you have to take something for your wife to eat before shees down? Don''t waste time on me."

    Shui Xian listened to her and walked away.

    Amiah heaved a sigh of relief. It was difficult to hide from her brother''s scrutinizing eyes.

 Chapter 1149 Sleepless Night

    Chapter 1149 Sleepless Night

    Once Raelle came down with Xiang Weimin, she found Shui Xian and walked up to his side. "Did you decide what we are eating?" asked Raelle.

    "I have," replied Shui Xian. He turned to point at the table saying, "Go over there and sit with B¨¤ and Opa. I''ll be right there."

    "Okay," agreed Raelle and went to the table he pointed at. "Good morning, Opa! B¨¤!"

    Both looked up at Raelle and had a gentle smile on their faces as they said, "Good morning. Did you sleep well?"

    "Perfect!" she replied. "My sleep quality is still very good. No worries."

    "That''s good to know," said Grandfather Xiang.

    Raelle looked around and asked, "Where is everyone else?"

    Just as she asked, Xiang Hulin came to sit at the table followed by Xiang Weimin. Then Xiang Wai also brought Zhai Yanjun to sit at the table with everyone else.

    "Where is Chenchen?" asked Xiang Hulin. "I went to knock on her door but there was no response. I thought she came down but she doesn''t seem to be there. Did anyone see her?"

    "No," was everyone''s response which worried Xiang Hulin.

    "Where did she go? I should go and look for her."

    "Sit down." came Grandfather Xiang''s majestic voice. "Is Chenyan three years old?"

    "No."

    "Then why are you in a rush?"

    "Because breakfast is her favorite meal of the day," said Xiang Hulin. He still knew this much about his own sister. "She doesn''t miss breakfast. Especially, when the whole family is together. So, I find it a little odd."

    "She is a grown-up and has her own ideas. Let her be," said Grandfather Xiang. Then he turned to Raelle, "Did Weimin talk to you?"

    "Yes," she responded.

    "And what is your idea?" asked Grandfather Xiang seriously. It obviously indicated that if Raelle had a different idea from the rest of the idea, this old man would still take her side. There was no way around it, who made Raelle his favorite? He was biased and he didn''t feel sorry about that at all.

    "I agree with everyone," said Raelle. "I wouldn''t want to do something so unscrupulous like snatching the kid from his mother. It''s better to put everything on the table and talk about it."

    "And if talking doesn''t solve problems?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Then I''m open to using other means that I see fit," replied Raelle. "However, I don''t think we''ll get there. So, take it easy. Let''s wait for a few days."

    "Why?"

    "There is no rush, Opa," said Raelle. "Let''s not corner her like this, okay?"

    "As you say," agreed Grandfather Xiang immediately since Raelle was the one saying it.

    let him sit down. Hyson didn''t care about his curry favor look but didn''t take the chair he pulled out. In fact, he pulled the chair "What are we talking about?" asked Hyson once he came over and yawnedzily. Zhai Yanjun actively pulled a chair for his brother and let him sit down. Hyson didn''t care about his curry favor look but didn''t take the chair he pulled out. In fact, he pulled the chair beside that and sat down.

    On the other side, Xiang Wai gave her boyfriend a sour look which Zhai Yanjun noticed, and seeing her expression, he was enlightened. He smiled sheepishly and whispered, "I''ll pull the chair for you too."

    "I''m already sitting," she reminded him.

    "Then we can''t help it. You didn''t even give me the chance to perform."

    Xiang Wai shook her head at him and looked away.

    "Have you seen your Yanyan?" asked Xiang Hulin.

    "Nope," replied Hyson, and Xiang Hulin was discouraged. "However, I know where she is."

    "Where?"

    "Penthouse!"

    This time Grandfather Xiang was also interested and asked, "The penthouse belongs to Xia Zhao. If she is in the penthouse. Does that mean..."

    "Opa is smart,"mented Hyson. "As expected of our family''s old ginger."

    "Speak properly!" came Raelle''s voice.

    "I was talking properly though," said Hyson. "Anyway,st night Yanyan was with Uncle Zhao and I also know that she didn''t go out. As for what happened between them. I''m still a kid. I didn''t try to find out."

    Everyone gave a weird look to Hyson who wasn''t embarrassed at all by this attention.

    Grandfather Xiang smiled happily, "I''d be over the moon if something really happened. But I highly doubt it."

    "Really?" asked Hyson. "Opa, a lonely man, and woman. Are you sure nothing happened?"

    "Aren''t you a kid? Why so curious?"

    "Because kids are curious," retorted Hyson.

    Raelle took the moment to say, "Uncle Zhao is a very principled person. So, Opa is right. Nothing must have happened.

    "Uncle Zhao might be principled but can you say the same for Yanyan?" asked Hyson. "Anyway, I don''t think there is anything that my Yanyan can''t do." Not very surprisingly, this earned him a smack on the back of his head from his mother who came just now and listened to him talking nonsense about her best friend. "Mum!" Hyson felt wronged as he rubbed the back of his head.

    ''You''re young. You have no right to say anything about Chenyan.''

    "I''m just..." Hyson wanted to say something but gave up. "Forget it. It doesn''t even matter." Then he hurriedly pulled a chair for his mother, "Mum, you sit here with me." Yue Yue ignored him and passed him. She sat down on the chair which Zhai Yanjun had pulled out for Hyson earlier and it was right beside Zhai Yanjun too. Seeing this operation, Hyson sighed, "Sure enough. I was the one picked up from the trash."

    "If you don''t stop talking. You''ll be thrown in the trash again," said Raelle.

    "It''s okay. This time, bestie, you pick me up!"

    "No way! I don''t like dirty things."

    Hyson put a hand on his heart, "Ouch! My Ellie just shot my heart."

    "It''s okay," said Shui Xian as he ced a bowl in front of Raelle. "You are already used to bleeding."

    "Thanks for the support, Xian Ge!"

    "You are most wee, little Fai!"

    Hyson sniffed, "You all are bullying me. I want my godmother."

    "I don''t think your godmother is gonnae to support you this morning, Hyson," said Raelle.

    Hyson hmphed and went to get himself something to eat. As he passed by Amiah''s table, he increased his pace and almost ran away from there. He wasn''t scared of her. He just thought that seeing him might injure her broken heart even more so he should keep his distance as much as possible. When he came back, he looked at his mother and frowned, "Mum, you didn''t rest wellst night? Not used to the bed?"

    Yue Yue waved her hand offhandedly. She didn''t want to tell her son that it was because of her conversation with Zhai Kuijunst night that kept her awake most of the night. Especially when he told her that he wanted to pursue her. She was so taken aback that she ran away from there in disbelief and she was still in disbelief.

    "What about you, Fai?" asked Grandfather Xiang. "Why do you look so tired and sleepy too?"

    "Oh, I was admiring the moonst night," said Hyson. "So, I went to sleep quitete."

    "That doesn''t seem like something you''d do," said Xiang Weimin.

    "Weimin Ge, you have a son. I also didn''t think that was something you''re capable of."

    Xiang Weimin red at him and Hyson stuck out his tongue at him.

    "Xian, why didn''t you call Amiah over?" asked Shui Koshing and Hyson froze when he heard that name and lowered his head in guilt.

    "I did," said Shui Xian. "She said she''ll eat with Sora and go back to sleep since she didn''t sleep wellst night."

    "Why did everyone not sleep wellst night?" asked Grandfather Xiang as he looked at Xiang Weimin, Yue Yue, Hyson, and now even Amiah. He didn''t think the hotel''s bed was so ufortable that no one was able to sleep properly. But he understood that it had more to do with their mental states than the hotel''s unfamiliar environment. "You all are very careless about health. Sleep is very important. Don''tpromise on it."

    "Opa is right," agreed Raelle.

    "Opa is always right," said Hyson.

    "Do you have to jump in when I talk?" asked Raelle.

    "Or maybe you always talk when I want to," retorted Hyson.

    "It''s definitely the other way around," said Raelle.

    "I don''t think so."

    Grandfather Xiang tapped his hand on the table and both of them stopped talking. Once Raelle turned her face, she noticed Song Xin''ai alsoing in for breakfast. She thought for a minute before she stood up and went over to her side. Everyone at the table followed her movement but no one stopped her at all.

    It must be a joke. Who dared to question Raelle''s decisions? They were all the people who would give in to her. How could they stop her from doing anything? Since she went to see Song Xin''ai, she must have something on her mind. So, all of them didn''tment on it and focused on the food in front of them.

 Chapter 1150 Annoy You In Vain

    Chapter 1150 Annoy You In Vain

    Song Xin''ai had just taken some fruit sd when Raelle came to her side. Song Xin''ai raised her brow in question, "Good morning, Raelle!"

    "Morning, Professor Song!"

    "You''re looking for me?" asked Song Xin''ai.

    "I just came to invite you over," said Raelle as she pointed toward their table. "Everyone is together for breakfast this morning. Why don''t you join us?"

    Song Xin''ai was a little taken aback by this invitation. She looked over and saw everyone at the table chatting andughing. She was momentarily a bit lost.

    "Don''t want to?" asked Raelle.

    Song Xin''ai shook her head, "No. That''s not it. It''s just that... Won''t I make everyone ufortable?"

    "Talk about yourself," said Raelle. "I don''t think the rest of them will mind."

    "Then..." Song Xin''ai took a moment before nodding her head, "I''lle over."

    "Okay," said Raelle and walked back to the leaving Song Xin''ai looking at her back.

    When Raelle came back, no one questioned her regarding what she went to do and what she was nning. Raelle took her seat and her eyes fell on Hyson. Right now, Hyson''s eyes were following the chopsticks of his mother. After all, those chopsticks kept putting food into Zhai Yanjun''s bowl while he was left on the side, feeling cold.

    Suddenly, he missed Mu Chenyan even more. If his godmother was here, would he be feeling this lonely? No way!

    While he was feeling down a pair of chopsticks ced a dim-sum in front of him. Hyson looked up at Shui Xian who gave him dim-sum and Shui Xian smiled at him, "Eat more. You are still growing. Nopromise on nutrition."

    Hyson chuckled at that and picked up the dim-sum to take a bite happily.

    "Thank you, Xian Ge!"

    "This time, you are really wee!" said Shui Xian.

    As if everyone got the hint, Xiang Weimin also put something in front of Hyson and so did Grandfather Xiang and Shui Koshing. This much love was enough to make Hyson swell like a balloon who was very happy now.

    When Yue Yue looked over at her son, he even had the time and audacity to stick out his tongue at her as he said, "I am still in demand. You can continue to dote on your other son."

    Yue Yue shook her head at her son helplessly. This son was verypetitive over petty things. But she was also his mother. She had clipped vegetables for him but seeing that he didn''t need it, she showed it to him on purpose before putting it into her own mouth.

    "Huh!" Hyson hmphed indicating that he didn''t care at all.

    This was the scene Song Xin''ai faced when she came over. Her lips unknowingly curled up.

    "Xin''ai," called out Grandfather Xiang. "Come and sit down. Don''t just stand there."

    Hyson pointed at the chair that he pulled for his mother and said, "Professor Song, youe and sit with me. Highly intelligent people should sit together. Because they would have moremon topics to talk about."

    Xiang Wai pfft at that, "Are you sure about your intelligence, Fai?"

    "It''s not as questionable as yours, Major!" Hyson shot back.

    "You!"

    "What? What about me? If you can''t win in an argument, don''t argue with me."

    Song Xin''ai was amused by it but she still sat down beside Hyson.

    Yue Yue hit her son once again, ''Be nice. That''s your sister-inw. Don''t always argue with her?''

    Hyson made a face at that, "So what if she is my sister-inw? Who asked her toe and mess with me all the time? Did I ask her to look for trouble? She should be self-aware that with her level of intelligence, she is no match for me. How is it my fault?"

    "Grandpa!" Xiang Wai called out. "Look at your little prince. He is insulting me."

    Grandfather Xiang rubbed his chin and sighed, "Fai, don''t bother your sister. And Wai, my little prince is right though. You''re not his match. No, it''s right to say that even Raelle isn''t his match." He looked at Raelle who was silently eating and asked, "Right, Yenay?"

    Raelle looked up when she was prompted and nodded her head, "Hyson is crazy. Are you also proving that you''re crazy too by butting heads with him?"

    Xiang Wai went silent when she heard that while Hysonughed proudly.

    "She called you crazy," Zhai Yanjun pointed out.

    "Tsk," Hyson gave his brother a disdainful look. "Jun Ge, you understand nothing. My best friend isplimenting me. It''s just that she doesn''tpliment people every day so she isn''t very good at it."

    "No wonder you''re so happy in life," said Xiang Wai. "You can bend anything ording to your own interests."

    "That''s the secret of happiness, Major! Don''t be jealous. At least, I don''t keep it all in me for years and cry in the corner."

    "Okay, you little brat! You are really looking for a fight now!"

    "Is this an arena?" came Raelle''s voice which made everyone silent. "I thought we were having breakfast here. Also, don''t mess with my best friend. You can''t beat him."

    "Are you looking down on me, sister?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "No, I''m just reminding you that to reach him, you''ll have to pass through me. Now, it''s up to you to understand whether you can win against me or not."

    Hysonughed devilishly, "Indeed, I''m still the favorite one. I didn''t annoy you in vain all these years, Ellie. You are still my bestie! I love you!"

    "Scram!"

    Xiang Wai was very irked by Hyson''s look right now and she turned to look at her sister. She was very sour now. How could her own sister protect this little devil everywhere? Why didn''t she have this privilege?

    So unfair!

    Zhai Yanjun took the moment to pat her back and soothe her ruffled feathers. He could understand her feelings but he really couldn''t do anything about it. He was in the same situation after all. He was also very sour that his brother cared more about Raelle than him. Oh, life was really unfair to him too.

 Chapter 1151 [Bonus chapter] I Can Come?

    Chapter 1151 [Bonus chapter] I Can Come?

    "Let''s just support each other," said Zhai Yanjun to Xiang Wai in a small voice. "I''m here for you."

    Xiang Wai felt better to hear that and finally smiled a little again.

    "Mom," started Xiang Weimin as he looked at Song Xin''ai. "Are you going back to theb today?"

    Song Xin''ai nodded her head which made him frown a little.

    "Why don''t you just go home?" he suggested. "You should rest for a few days. I heard you were hospitalized again."

    "Mom, you okay?" asked Xiang Wai in concern once she heard that. She didn''t know at all. No matter what attitude she always had towards her own mother, she was still very concerned about her health. Even she knew how Song Xin''ai didn''t take care of herself and often fell sick.

    Song Xin''ai felt warm when she heard the concern from her kids and shook her head, "I''m fine now. I was just too tired. It wasn''t even a big deal."

    "Whether it was a big deal or not, you should still take breaks when it''s necessary," said Xiang Weimin. "I don''t even know why you''re working so hard?"

    "Says the man who is taking a vacation for the first time since he joined the Air Force?" asked Song Xin''ai.

    Xiang Weimin cleared his throat, "Isn''t it because now I have experienced that taking breaks is good for health? Don''t always work. Work is never gonna end anyway. But work might end us one day. So, let''s take our time and rest when we can."

    "Xin''ai, you should listen to your kids," said Grandfather Xiang. "Don''t always lock yourself in theb. Go out and bask in the sun sometimes. Have you seen how pale you are?"

    "It''s almost like looking at a vampire!"mented Hyson. Seeing everyone looking at him, he smiled sweetly, "I''m right. Don''t stare at me. I get shy too."

    "Dramatic!" said Xiang Wai but Hyson chose to ignore it this time.

    Hyson looked at the healthy breakfast in front of Song Xin''ai and frowned deeply, "Professor Song, are you eating this tasteless breakfast because of your health?"

    "No," replied Song Xin''ai. "I always eat like this."

    "What?!" Hyson was horrified. "Why?"

    "I just like it?" Song Xin''ai didn''t know what was wrong with his reaction.

    Hyson shook his head, "You are really Raelle''s mother. But it''s so sad. How can you deprive yourself of the blessing of the wonderful vors of life? How could you? The numbing chili, the burst of sweetness, that sour wonderfulness. How can you stay away from all that?"

    "She can," said Raelle. "She didn''t find an annoying best friend like you, after all."

    Hyson nodded in agreement, "See? This is why I say I''m your life''s blessing, Ellie! If I hadn''t forced you to try every other dish, wouldn''t you be missing out on so much in life? You should thank me! I did so much for you."

    "Don''t put yourself on the pedestal. The only reason you always ordered different dishes whenever we went to eat was that you wanted to taste everything."

    "It''s all the same!" said Hyson stubbornly and turned to Song Xin''ai. "You, you''re missing out on so much. What''s the fun in eating this?"

    "Is it that bad?" asked Song Xin''ai as she faced him in amusement.

    "Of course, it is," he replied. "My heart is hurting for you."

    "Oh, what a kind soul you are," said Song Xin''ai.

    Hysonughed at that and said not so humbly, "I know, I know. I have always been awesome. Or else would I have found a boring best friend for myself? It''s my kind-heartedness."

    "You have a lot to say this morning, Hyson," Raelle pointed out. "What are you trying to hide behind these chatter of yours?"

    Hyson avoided her eyes instinctively and said, "What can I hide? Can I even hide anything from you?" He should have known he won''t be able to escape those eyes of his best friend. But he already knew it. He wasn''t that surprised. He was happy as long as no one else noticed it. "Stop annoying me," he said to Raelle. "Professor Song, you shoulde over to our house sometime. My godmother makes delicious food. I''m telling you. She is the best." Feeling a pinch on his waist, he added unwillingly, "My mother is also not bad. She is just slightly worse than my godmother. However, she loves to cook for the son on her left side. After all, I''m picked up from the trash."

    Yue Yue rolled her eyes Hyson feeling disgusted with this son who held too many grudges. Too childish.

    "I..." Song Xin''ai wanted to refuse but couldn''t bring herself to do so either. She couldn''t understand it too. She felt ashamed to even didn''t want to refuse either.

    It was the first time in her life, she had such a lively breakfast. She face the Xiang family. How could she go to their house? But she didn''t want to refuse either.

    It was the first time in her life, she had such a lively breakfast. She wasn''t annoyed by Hyson''s chatter but it only lifted her mood. She found him so adorable. Her own kids were silent when they usually ate with her or were very serious. So, it was rare to find this happy bean.

    Deep down, she always knew that what she desperately wanted was a family. A warm family where happiness would linger even in the air. And currently, she felt like she found it.

    She didn''t think that what she missed in life was a husband. No. That wasn''t what she wanted. She really wanted a family like this. It was too beautiful. Like a dream. She couldn''t even bring herself to believe that this wasn''t a dream but a reality.

    "Xin''ai, you shoulde when you have time," added Grandfather Xiang seeing her hesitation. "Chenyan has gotten an expert at cooking. You''d be surprised to taste her food."

    "I cane?" she asked with expectation in her eyes.

    Grandfather Xiang actually felt a little bitter and sad for her. She had such big kids and yet, she looked like someone whocked love the most. He smiled gently and warmly at her, "Of course, you can."

 Chapter 1152 Guilty

    Chapter 1152 Guilty

    "Be brave, Professor Song," said Hyson. "We are very open-hearted people. And it''s me who is inviting you. Have some faith in me. No one contradicts me here apart from my boring best friend."

    Grandfather Xiang also agreed with him, "Indeed. Once our family''s little prince said something, no one goes against it apart from Raelle."

    Song Xin''ai nodded her head, "Then I''lle when I have time."

    "Don''t wait for that," said Hyson. "Time is running all the time. You have to make time because it won''t stop for you."

    "You are indeed very intelligent,"mented Song Xin''ai. "And very adorable too."

    Hyson smiled at her cheekily, "Trust me. I''m the second most intelligent person on this table."

    "Oh? Who is the first?"

    "Is that even a question?" asked Hyson. "It''s of course my boring best friend. Who can contend for first ce with her?"

    "Not even our mom?" asked Xiang Wai.

    Hyson shrugged, "Nope. I''ll give Professor Song the third ce."

    "What about Aunt Chenyan?" asked Xiang Weimin. "She isn''t the intelligent one?"

    "I said, on this table," replied Hyson. "Yanyan isn''t on this table right now."

    "And if she was?"

    Hyson pursed his lips and contemted this deeply, "Fine. I''ll give her the second ce with me hesitantly."

    "Still not the first one?"

    "Who dares to fight with my Ellie for the first ce?" asked Hyson.

    "You''re very protective of your best friend," said Song Xin''ai.

    "I only have this one best friend in my life. I have to put her first in everything. Or else, I won''t feel good."

    "Raelle has a good friend,"mented Xiang Weimin.

    "Heard that, Ellie?" asked Hyson proudly.

    "No, I have trained my brain to filter out the words that praise you."

    "Pfft!"

    Hyson looked at everyone whoughed at him and then red at Raelle unhappily but then changed his expression and sighed, "Forget it. I forgive you even my murder."

    "Really? So should I start nning the murder?" asked Raelle.

    "No. Let me live for a few years. I have so much to see and understand in life."

    "Didn''t you say you have seen enough?"

    "Last night, someone made me realize that I have yet to learn and see a lot."

    "Oh," responded Raelle seemingly interested in what he said. "Are you done eating?"

    Hyson suddenly shrunk back in his seat when he got her full attention and shook his head, "No. I''m still hungry. Where is that carp soup of mine?"

    "It''s okay,e with me," said Raelle. "I''ll feed you the soup with my own hands."

    "Are you sure you''re not gonna drown me in it?" he asked.

    "I''ll try not to."

    Hyson gulped but still failed to resist her. He put his chopsticks down and stood up to follow her.

    "Where are you taking him?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    "I''ll be right back, Opa," said Raelle. "Don''t worry. I just have something to say to him."

    "He is still eating," said Grandfather Xiang.

    "He is done," replied Raelle. "Aren''t you, Hyson?"

    "If you say, I''m done then I''m done," was Hyson''s response.

    Raelle beckoned him and took him away.

    "Did Fai do something?" asked B¨¤. "Why does it seem like he is gonna be prosecuted? Do you know, Xian?"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "No. I don''t know. But you shouldn''t worry about it. No matter what happens, Raelle and Fai will always be fine."

    "Everybody knows that,"mented Xiang Wai. "Even I know that."

    "Are they very close?" asked Song Xin''ai curiously.

    "Mom, you''d be surprised. No one can take that annoying brat''s ce in Raelle''s life," said Xiang Wai. "Their bond can make anyone jealous. When I first time met them, I was so envious."

    "Their bond is special. It''s nothing like friends," added Shui Xian. "They are closer than siblings. Even I can''t get in between them. They are that close."

    On the other hand, Raelle took Hyson to a corner. Hyson lowered his head like a kid and didn''t dare look into her eyes.

    "What did you do?" asked Raelle.

    "No..."

    Before he could finish, she interrupted, "Don''t try that ''nothing'' with me. Do you think it''ll work on me?"

    Hyson took a deep breath and said in his head that there was hardly anything that could work on Raelle Xiang.

    "Something happened between you and Amiah?" asked Raelle but it sounded more like a statement as if she was certain that it involved the both of them. After all, she did notice the subtle way Hyson ran away from Amiah''s side and Amiah avoided looking at him. And she was certain that Amiah refused toe to their table because of Hyson. "What''s going on? Did she confess?"

    Hyson looked up at her, "Yeah."

    "You refused?"

    "Wasn''t I supposed to?" he asked in return.

    "Yes," she said. "Of course, you should reject when you don''t have any feelings for her. I didn''t say you shouldn''t. That''d be a lie."

    "Exactly and we don''t lie," said Hyson. "So, I clearly told her that I don''t like her."

    "Why are you guilty then?" asked Raelle. "Do you think you did something wrong?"

    "I didn''t do anything wrong," he retorted. "What did I do wrong? I was doing what I felt was right. Yes, it ended up hurting her but in the process of making her happy, I couldn''t make myself unhappy, right? You won''t like that too."

    "That''s why I''m asking why are you feeling guilty?" she asked again. "When you did nothing wrong why are you acting like you did something wrong?"

    "I just feel weird," he answered. "I can''t bring myself to face Xian Ge. He always does so much for me and I made his sister cry. If he knew how sad he''d be. I won''t like that."

    "Do you have some kind of misunderstanding regarding my husband?"

    "Huh?"

    "Xian won''t be sad," said Raelle. "He won''t be upset with you. Yes, he might feel bad for his sister but he won''t me you for it either. He understands you very well."

    "You think so?" asked Hyson. "I really didn''t have any guilt until I looked at Xian Ge."

    "Then stop feeling guilty," said Raelle. "Just go and tell him what you feel."

    "I don''t think Amiah told him about what happenedst night," mentioned Hyson. "Is it okay for me to reveal it? Maybe she wants to keep it from her brother?"

    "That''s also right," agreed Raelle. "Now, this is tricky indeed."

    "So, what should I do? Act like nothing happened."

    "I''ll talk to Xian," said Raelle. "Don''t think about it. And stop jumping around. Are you really that energetic even after not sleeping well? And what the hell were you even doingst night?"

    "I told you, I was admiring the moon."

    "That''s not something you''d do. You might look like it but you really don''t know how to admire the moon."

    "Why don''t I know? I know it very well," Hyson was ticked off when he was doubted.

    "Oh? Then tell me what was your first thought when you looked at the moonst night?"

    "It was very round," he replied but instantly pped his mouth for slipping up and telling his real thoughts. "No, no. I mean it looked very enchanting."

    "Yeah, right."

    Hyson made a face at her, "Do you think if I had different thoughts I''d be your best friend?"

    "You mind being my best friend so much?"

    "Who said it? I love it!"

    "Then stop saying it again and again. Are you trying to remind everyone by repeating it over and over again?"

    "Yes," he answered stubbornly. "I don''t want people to forget after your engagement that you''re still my best friend. Only mine! I''m very possessive!"

    "Silly!"

    "I am silly. What is wrong with being silly? Don''t you still love this silly bestie?"

    "I don''t," she refused to ept.

    "As if I believe what you say."

    "You should."

    "I won''t."

    "Stubborn!"

    "Boring!"

    "You''re really bing a brat now!"

    "And what about you? What do you have to say about yourself, Ellie?"

    "Me? I''m still the awesome me!"

    "Blergh!" he made the sound of puking when she said it but stopped and said, "Forget it. You''re really my awesome friend. If I don''t agree with that I''d be questioning my choices."

    Raelle raised her hand and rubbed his fluffy head as she said, "Did it feel ufortable rejecting her so you went to admire the moon?"

    "Why are you like a worm in my stomach?"

    "Who told you to be my one and only best friend? I have to pay extra attention to your feelings, no? How else would I be able to understand others'' feelings?"

    Hyson pouted and told her, "Don''t ask so much. Yes, I was upset. But I am no more. I''m actually very rxed now. I met Rust night on the rooftop. And he was the one who told me that Yanyan is with Uncle Zhao."

    "Oh, no wonder," said Raelle. "Do you think there is progress?"

    "Of course, there is," he was very certain. "If there wasn''t. Yanyan would be here with us."

    "Then I also hope there is progress."

 Chapter 1153 So Fragile

    Chapter 1153 So Fragile

    As the soft morning light filtered through the expansive windows of his penthouse, casting a gentle glow across the sleek marble countertops, Xia Zhao was already immersed in the bustling world of his kitchen. d in a crisp apron, he moved with purpose and grace, his dedication evident in each meticulous action.

    The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, mingling with the tantalizing scents of spices and herbs that danced from simmering pots on the stovetop. Xia Zhao''s nimble fingers skillfully prepared a medley of ingredients, chopping vibrant vegetables with precision.

    A symphony of sizzling pans and clinking utensils provided the soundtrack to his culinary choreography. He gracefully navigated the spacious kitchen, effortlessly transitioning between different stations, ensuring every dish received the attention it deserved. The love he poured into each creation was palpable, infusing the room with an undeniable warmth.

    He was used to living a rather simple life and that''s why, he usually didn''t cook that many dishes. He had to eat alone anyway so it didn''t really matter much. But today, it was certainly different. The purpose for such diligence was different too.

    After all, he was cooking this breakfast for Mu Chenyan, the little piggy who was still sleeping without a care in the world. But just knowing that she was right now sleeping in his bedroom was enough to fill him with endless energy and happiness.

    So, he even hummed as he worked in the kitchen.

    *Beep!*

    Xia Zhao caught the sound of the main door opening and turned to look who opened the door of his penthouse.

    Seeing his nephew, he frowned and asked, "Where are youing from?"

    Ru gave him a look, "Does it matter to you? You kicked me out. What does it matter to you now where I was? And anyway, you don''t care either."

    "I''m just making sure that you are well rested."

    "Are you?" asked Ru in return. "It looks like you didn''t even sleepst night in excitement."

    Xia Zhao red at Ru but decided to ignore Ru and went back to arranging the fresh fruit tter which looked pleasing to even just look at.

    "You really don''t like hearing the truth,"mented Ru and went to look for something.

    "What are you doing?" asked Xia Zhao.

    Ru looked up at him, "Uncle, I won''t disturb your love-filled breakfast. I''m just looking for something I left herest night."

    "You''re leaving?"

    "Or else?"

    Xia Zhao thought about it before saying, "Don''t leave just yet. It''s better if you talk to Raelle about what you found."

    "Can''t you do this much?" asked Ru. "This young master''s time is very precious."

    "I don''t really care!"

    "If you kept this attitude, beware of me tripping you in the near future. Annoying me doesn''t end well for people. After all, I hold grudges."

    "Are you sure? I thought you always get back at people right when you''re wronged." He took a moment and asked, "What did you leave here, by the way?"

    "It''s the gift I brought for Raelle," answered Ru.

    "You didn''t give itst night?" he inquired.

    "I have to personally deliver it into her hands."

    "What kind of a treasure is it?"

    Right when he asked that, Ru found the rectangr rosewood box and seeing the box, Xia Zhao''s brows were slightly raised.

    He sighed, "Well, it does seem like a treasure."

    "When you see her, call me," said Ru as he turned to leave but stopped and asked, "Am I supposed to tell about your progress in love to anyone or we are keeping it a secret for now?"

    "You''re smart enough," said Xia Zhao.

    "I''ll keep it a secret for now then," said Ru. "After all, I don''t trust you very much. What if you messed up the hard won rtionship within a few days? Wouldn''t I be making the Elders happy for nothing?"

    "Thisck of trust of yours is the motivation why I''m trying my best here."

    Ru nces at the array of dishes he made and said, "Hmmm... You''re indeed working very hard. How many people are invited over the breakfast? Seeing this arrangement, it almost feels like you''re ready to see your inws."

    "Is it too much?" Xia Zhao also stopped and asked hesitantly. He suddenly was a bit unsure about his choices. But he wanted to make all of these dishes for Mu Chenyan. He couldn''t bring himself to miss out on even a single one.

    Ru observed his reaction and said, "As long as you''re happy and satisfied, Uncle. Who cares if it''s really too much? Don''t think about it."

    "Then disappear. Stop making me doubt myself."

    "My presence has never been this loathes before in my entire life."

    "Feeling hurt?"

    "My feelings aren''t so fragile," retorted Ru. "If I was so weak, I would have been eaten by people." He went around the counter and took out chopsticks and clipped a bite of scrambled eggs with tomatoes.

    "What are you doing?" asked Xia Zhao.

    "Eating. Isn''t that obvious, Uncle? Is something wrong with your eyes? Do you need my help? I''m very good at it."

    "I don''t need your help. You should help yourself and treat your brain! This isn''t for you."

    Ru wasn''t stimted by his words or even bothered. In fact, he stole a tea egg and started peeling it leisurely as he replied to Xia Zhao, "I''m helping you taste everything. You can''t possibly go in blind. A critic is necessary in this situation."

    "Doing this doesn''t suit your identity."

    "If you''re bound by your identity for too long, you start losing who you really are," replied Ru seriously. "So, Uncle, what''s wrong with letting your inner self go once in a while?"

    Xia Zhao went silent as he saw Ru smiling at him knowingly and ate the tea eggs as he moved towards the door to leave. Xia Zhao knew those words had more meaning to them than it seems but he didn''t want to divulge into it for now.

    "Thanks for the egg!"

    Xia Zhao shook his head when he heard that.

 Chapter 1154 [Bonus chapter] Disappointing Stomach

    Chapter 1154 [Bonus chapter] Disappointing Stomach

    Xia Zhao looked away from where Ru stood and sighed as he muttered to himself, "I should be thankful at least this person is using the door today instead of scaling the walls all the time."

    He pushed out the thought of this person from his head and focused on the work at hand. After he was done here, he looked at the time. It was already past 8 and it was considered a veryte breakfast for Xia Zhao who usually at 6 am.

    He went to check up on Mu Chenyan. As he opened the door, he stepped inside the dark room. He walked over and took the remote to open the curtains. Once the light poured into the room, he was able to see the figure on the bed who was sleeping with her limbs flying around.

    Xia Zhao was amused to see her sleeping posture. She still slept the same way as years ago.

    He walked over to her side and crouched down beside her. In this hushed stillness of the morning, soft rays of sunlight gently kissed the peaceful visage of Mu Chenyan. With an adoring gaze, he sat there, captivated by the person in front of his eyes. The rhythmic rise and fall of her chest, apanied by the gentle melody of her breathing, filled him with a profound sense of contentment.

    The tendrils of her tousled hair, delicately caressing her face, seemed like an ethereal frame for the slumbering masterpiece before him. He marveled at the way hershes gracefully brushed against her cheeks, like the wings of a butterfly, hinting at the dreams that danced behind closed eyes.

    He was very familiar with every curve, every contour of her features. He had watched every change that time brought in her. He was so familiar with everything about her and yet, at this moment, he couldn''t help losing himself.

    At that moment, a symphony of emotions swelled within him.

    Most of all, he was grateful to see her here. He had missed so many years. How could he not be grateful to see her now?

    With each passing moment, he found himself falling deeper into the realm of devotion. It was in these quiet moments, when the world seemed to pause just for them, that he was reminded of the immense privilege it was to witness her vulnerability, to be the one she trusted to guard her dreams.

    How could Mu Chenyan be so careless sleeping in anyone else''s ce?

    She was able to rest here with peace of mind because she knew this was his ce. Whether she loved him or not, she trusted him for sure.

    A soft sigh escaped his lips, a breath infused with both adoration and a profound sense of protectiveness. He couldn''t help but reach out, tenderly tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear, as if to ensure that not a single disturbance would disrupt her peaceful slumber.

    He didn''t want to disrupt this peace. But he couldn''t allow her to sleep on an empty stomach too. So, he had to harden his heart and wake her up.

    "Yanzi," he whispered her name so gently that it could tickle one''s heart. "Wake up!"

    Mu Chenyan slowly pried open her eyes ever so slightly to see who was disturbing her with his intoxicating voice and seeing that it was Xia Zhao, she let go and closed her eyes again.

    "Yanzi, you need to get up now," he added.

    Mu Chenyan tried to pull up the duvet to hide herself but she couldn''t find it. She had to open her eyes and seeing that she had thrown the duvet a long time ago, she picked it up, covered her head, and continued to close her eyes.

    Xia Zhao chuckled at her reaction which he found really adorable.

    He sat beside her and tried to pull the duvet as he said, "Don''t be like this."

    "Can''t you let me sleep?" came her muffled voice. "I''m so tired," sheined without any restraint which she usually didn''t do at home. How could she? She was taking on the responsibility of everyone in the family. How could she show her vulnerability to anyone? She could cry before Raelle but she couldn''t whine.

    Xia Zhao patiently pulled off the duvet and looked into her eyes, "I''m not stopping you from sleeping. But you should eat something first. It''s not good to sleep on an empty stomach for so long. Why don''t you eat something and then go to sleep again?"

    Mu Chenyan opened her eyespletely as she stared at him. Then she pushed him down making himy down on the bed and went to hug him saying, "Are you coaxing a child here? I''m not so easily coaxed. I want to sleep. Don''t wanna eat. You should stop disturbing me and just sleep with me too. Indulging in sleep once in a while is okay."

    He helplessly caressed her hair as he said, "I''m just worried that you''d be hungry."

    Mu Chenyan wanted to say that she wasn''t hungry but her growling stomach didn''t think so. What was wrong with this embarrassing stomach? Why was this stomach so disappointing in front of this man only? Why? Was her own stomach against her or the whole world was against her?

    "Okay, you''re not hungry," he said. "But I''m very hungry. Why don''t you apany me again?"

    "You heard that. There is no need to pretend that you didn''t," she retorted. "You always do this."

    Xia Zhaoughed at that, "Okay. Okay. I heard that and I know you''re hungry. Get up for a while, okay? I have prepared so many things for you. I''m sure you''d enjoy it."

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her head against his chest making him stiffen up with her ying so recklessly. But he didn''t push her away or stop her at all. He seemed to be in love seeing her doing this. It gave a tingling feeling in her heart and made his heart race which had always been stable.

 Chapter 1155 Here And There

    Chapter 1155 Here And There

    Xia Zhao''s muscles slowly rxed and he was feeling a lot easier with Mu Chenyan making trouble with him. Suddenly, she stopped moving and he heard her even breathing indicating that she fell asleep once again. He didn''t know how to react.

    "Yanzi!" he called her out again softly. "Don''t sleep anymore."

    Mu Chenyan bit his chest making him grit his teeth in forbearance. Then she sat up and looked at him as she asked, "Where did you sleepst night, Zhao?"

    He didn''t know why she was asking this but he still answered truthfully, "I slept in the other room."

    Mu Chenyan had an expression that showed that she already expected such a result. She poked his chest and said, "You are a fool!"

    "Why am I getting thispliment now?"

    "You had a beautiful woman in your arms but you chose to sleep alone. If you are not a fool who is?"

    Xia Zhao sat up and said, "You were already asleep. I couldn''t just decide on my own. Besides, no matter how much I want to stand beside you. I won''t rush things."

    "Think again," said Mu Chenyan. "Didn''t you sayst night that we don''t know how many more years we have? Then why are still trying to take it slow? You have to sprint at this point so that we can make for the lost 20 years."

    "Do you want me to run?" he asked.

    "Run!"

    "Then I''ll run with you," he replied.

    "And if I get tired of running?"

    "Then I''ll pick you up and run."

    Mu Chenyan opened her arms saying, "Then pick me up. I''m tired. Don''t wanna get up."

    He understood instantly what she wanted and shook his head at her before he stood up and leaned down to hug her as he took her to the bathroom. He put her on the counter and looked at her as he asked, "What else?"

    "What? I have to brush my teeth. Don''t act like you don''t know what to do," Mu Chenyan had no burden ordering him around at all. If it was someone else, she might have some scruples but not with him.

    Xia Zhao took a new toothbrush that he had arranged for her and filled the cup with water as she passed it to her. Mu Chenyan opened her mouth and took a sip of water to gargle before taking the brush from his hand to brush her teeth. With the foam in her mouth, she kept looking at him and asked, "I''m really gonna tire you out today."

    "It''s okay. I''m all ready for it," he told her.

    "Let''s see your determination," she said. "I want to change my clothes."

    "I''ll bring it."

    "From where?" she asked.

    "I arranged it all."

    Mu Chenyan came out and looked at him opening the walk-in closet. She was suddenly taken aback when she looked at the neatly ced female clothes. She narrowed his eyes at him and noticing that everything was her own size, she had aplicated look in her eyes.

    Considering his personality, she was certain that he arranged it all after he confessed to herst night. He wouldn''t do anything ostentatious until he had gotten her response. So, she wondered how long did he sleepst night.

    As he picked a dress for her, he found her scrutinizing him and raised his brow, "What is it? If you wanna know something, just ask me."

    "Did you pick it all or asked some assistant of yours to arrange everything?"

    "How can I let some random person arrange everything that belongs to you?"

    Mu Chenyan smiled at his answer and then asked, "So, you did this allst night?"

    "No," he replied to her. "From the moment I decided to tell you my feelings, I had already started making preparations. It''s just that these were delivered early in the morning."

    "I didn''t even hear anything."

    "You''re sleeping like a pig." Mu Chenyan red at him and he tapped her nose, "A cute pig. Really."

    "Adding cute won''t make it sound any better."

    "No?"

    "No!"

    "Go and change your clothes," said Xia Zhao. "I''ll go and serve the breakfast for you." After that, he left to give her enough space.

    Mu Chenyan looked at his back and sighed to herself at his thoughtfulness. She thought she was thoughtful enough but he was certainly better at it. She changed her clothes and looked around at everything around. She had to ept the facts ced right before her eyes.

    Xia Zhao was way too familiar with her preferences. Whether it was the color or the designs of the clothes, everything was right up her alley. There was nothing that went against her aesthetics. She smiled to herself as she scratched her head.

    At a moment like this, she seriously wondered if she had been too impulsive back then. Was she really too hot-headed and foolish in her youth? Was that why she actually missed out on so many years?

    No one can deny that there was no one who matched her better than him. After all, who else can take in her temper and unreasonableness? But more than that, no one could actually love her more than he did. She didn''t even know it.

    But she won''t take all the me for it. He also has a part in this matter. They didn''t just miss out on so many years all because of her.

    She was brushing her hair as her eyes fell on the clock and she let out a gasp. She couldn''t believe it was sote. No wonder he was insisting on waking her up. She slept for so long without realizing it. When was even thest time she slept for so long? She couldn''t even remember clearly.

    She hurriedly ran to find her phone but didn''t find it in the bedroom, so she went out to find it. Seeing her rushing out, Xia Zhao looked at her and didn''t even ask before telling her, "Your phone is on the coffee table."

    Mu Chenyan really found her phone there but there was a missed call. And there was no message too. Was she forgotten by her family so soon?

    "No one even looked for me?" she asked.

    Xia Zhao chuckled, "How is that possible? They must already know that you''re here with me."

    "Still..." she pouted at that and facepalmed herself, "Why am I wasting time? I have to go. I didn''t give Elder Xiang his medicine. I don''t know if he took it or not."

    "He did," came Xia Zhao''s response.

    "Huh?" she looked at him in confusion.

    "I went to give him the medicine personally."

    "You?" she asked weirdly.

    "Your phone reminder..." he pointed out and Mu Chenyan understood why and how he knew about it. It wasn''t so surprising then. Even if she didn''t need a reminder, she still had set a reminder on her phone for every day. It hadn''t changed over the years.

    "Then it''s okay," she rxed and instantly her nose was filled with a tantalizing aroma in the air. As she came closer, the aroma intensified, filling the penthouse with an irresistible allure.

    The table before her was a vision of elegance and decadence, show-casing the array of Chinese-inspired dishes he had passionately crafted. There was a velvety rose ced on the table. She didn''t even know where he learned this.

    "I slept like a pig, you think I can eat like one too?" she asked.

    "I just wanted to prepare a little bit of everything for you," he replied a bit sheepishly because he also knew he went too far.

    There were egg custard tarts, congee served with fresh herbs, scrambled eggs with tomatoes, crispy Chinese pancakes, tea eggs, and a fruit tter. In that serene penthouse kitchen, amidst the early morning tranquility, Xia Zhao''s unwaveringmitment and love shone through.

    "Why? Are you trying to get rid of me by cooking everything today for me?" she teased him yfully.

    "How is that possible? This isn''t even the limit of my potential. I can assure you, I can cook a different breakfast for you every day. As long as you want me to."

    "It''s better that you have this idea," she said. "But it''s not like I want to enve you. So, I can help you a little here and there." Mu Chenyan took a generous stance and sat down to eat she went on, "Even if I can''t match your cooking, I''m not that bad either. My Elle still loves the food made by me the most."

    "Then it''d be an honor of mine to have something made by you,"mented Xia Zhao happily. It''s not like he needed her to cook for him but he was still looking forward to it. "But I won''t want to tire you out. So, let''s do it together."

    "It''s not like we are living together."

    "Sooner orter," was his response which made her stare at him in surprise.

 Chapter 1156 Cant Do The Same

    Chapter 1156 Can''t Do The Same

    "What''s the n for the day?" asked Xiang Wai as she looked at everyone at the table. "I mean is everyone going back home from here or have other ns?"

    Raelle was the first one to stand up and even pulled Shui Xian with him, "We have ns."

    "I expected that," said Xiang Wai.

    Raelle ignored her and looked at Shui Koshing and Grandfather Xiang as she told them, "Opa, B¨¤, we''ll see you at dinner."

    "Okay," agreed both of them.

    "Have fun!" said Shui Koshing from behind. "There is no need to be in a hurry toe back. I can have dinner alone too." Of course, he wanted them to spend more and more time with each other. Even if he loved it when the kids spend time with him but he still didn''t want them to always make ns considering his emotions. It was better for them to be free.

    "What about you, Uncle Shing?" asked Hyson. "Where are you going?"

    "Oh, there is a fishing site close to her. I thought I should go there today," said Shui Koshing.

    "I''lle with you."

    "Why are you joining me?" asked Shui Koshing. "Go and do something that youngsters do these days. Aren''t your group mates here? Go and make ns with them."

    Hyson thought about it before he agreed and stood up to leave too as he said, "So, everyone, have a good day. I''ll take my leave now. Don''t miss me too much."

    "This fool!"mented Xiang Wai. "What about you, Ge?"

    "I''m going home with Grandpa," answered Xiang Weimin. He didn''t think he had anything else to do. Since Raelle stopped him from rushing, it was better to go home to calm his emotions.

    "Then don''t wait for me, I''m going out with Jun," told Xiang Wai.

    "I have no time to wait for you, anyway," said Xiang Weimin. "Grandpa, let''s go. We are not needed here."

    Xiang Wai shrugged and turned to her own father, "Papa, what about you?"

    "He ising with me," told Shui Koshing. "I invited him to join me today. It''s rare to have your father around after all."

    Xiang Wai was surprised by this but soon epted it. These inws should really spend more time together.

    "Wai!"

    "Yes, Mom?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Can we talk?"

    Xiang Wai raised her brows but still followed her.

    "What is it, Mom?"

    Song Xin''ai took a moment to think about what to say and then she said to Xiang Wai, "If anyone from your grandparents'' side look for you, ignore them."

    Xiang Wai was taken aback, "Are you sure?"

    "Listen to me first. If theye to look for Raelle, let me know."

    Xiang Wai turned serious when she heard that, "Why are they looking for Raelle? What does my sister have to do with them? Do they even have the face toe in front of her?"

    "I don''t need to tell you so much to understand everything," said Song Xin''ai. "I always thought they were just weird and selfish butst night, I learned that they were also capable of insidious schemes. If they can make ns for your brother, they can do anything to Raelle too."

    "Mom, you''re really pitiful."

    Song Xin''ai couldn''t even get angry with this daughter of hers for what she just said.

    "Don''t mind, but it''s true. I always thought I had it bad. But truthfully speaking, that''s not the case. Even if our family was scattered, I still knew that there were people who loved me. But you... You can''t have that wishful thinking. Why don''t do some digging? What if you''re not even their daughter??"

    "You think we are in a drama?" asked Song Xin''ai. "Stop thinking so much nonsense. I have already done the digging. I really am their daughter."

    Xiang Wai pursed her lips, "So, you really had doubts?"

    "Who wouldn''t?"

    "Then what''s the reason for the difference in treatment. I don''t there is anyone else in that family who is treated as coldly and selfishly as you," said Xiang Wai.

    Song Xin''ai was silent for a while before she shared, "I know the reason."

    "What? What is it?"

    prejudice against me. After all, she hated her mother-inw, how could she like me who was raised by her mother-inw?" She took "Because when I was born, my mom almost died from dystocia. So, she always believed that I was cursed. She threw me to my grandmother to raise. And that''s why I couldn''t get close to anyone else in the family. After I was brought back, my mom had another prejudice against me. After all, she hated her mother-inw, how could she like me who was raised by her mother-inw?" She took a pause and added, "Besides, you should know that I''m not very good at expressing or even understanding my own feelings. By the time, I realized that I was mistreated in that family, I already got used to it."

    "All of that sounds like excuses to me," said Xiang Wai. "As educated people, how can you me a child for anything?"

    "Just because the roots were of a schrly family, you think the Song family is still a bunch of schrs? They are all pretentious and face-saving idiots. Sooner orter, they''ll all make the Song family go down the drain. Why do you think they keep insisting on holding my thigh even though they hate me?"

    "I always thought you were unclear,"mented Xiang Wai. "Now, it seems that you always knew everything. But you just didn''t bother with anything."

    "I wanted to make life easier but it didn''t happen," answered Song Xin''ai. "But it did trouble you and my son a lot."

    "Mom, they could trouble us but they can''t do the same to Raelle. We might have reservations because of our profession but Raelle? She might make them all go out of a job."

    Song Xin''ai pursed her lips and didn''t deny it. "I know that all. I understand that Raelle is capable of it all but I still don''t want her to be entangled by such people. It''s better for Raelle to stay away from them."

    "I''ll let you know then if they really came to look for her," said Xiang Wai. "Anything else?"

    Song Xin''ai lifted her hand and rubbed her head saying, "Take care of yourself. It looks good to see you being so lively. I guess love does it to people. So, enjoy your dating period."

    Xiang Wai stared at her for a while before asking, "Don''t you want to go back in time and experience it all again?"

    "No," answered Song Xin''ai. "I think I''m already very satisfied with the present. I can see all my kids and have meals with them whenever I want. I still can feel the warmth of a family. Isn''t that enough? We shouldn''t be greedy in life, Wai."

    Xiang Wai made a face at that answer. Actually, she had really expected to hear this answer. She didn''t even know why she bothered asking when she knew the answer already.

    "Call me if you miss me," said Song Xin''ai.

    Xiang Wai was shocked by those words. When had her mother teased her like this.

    "You can call even if you don''t miss me."

    Xiang Wai smiled and said, "What''s the guarantee that I''ll be able to reach you?"

    "You will be, I promise!" said Song Xin''ai and didn''t exin anything. "You and I have had a very bumpy rtionship over the years. We had our differences and we argued a lot too because of our choices. But at the end of the day, you''re still the closest to me. You might not believe it but I have always been very worried about you and your future."

    "Because I seem to be not as capable as the other two?"

    Song Xin''ai shook her head, "No. Because you have a lot more feelings than the other two. Weimin is like his father, no matter what happens he keeps a cool exterior and doesn''t like to share his worries or thoughts very much. Raelle is like me, it''s difficult for her to distinguish what she is even feeling. But you... You''re like your grandmother. Wild and chaotic sometimes."

    "I don''t remember her that well," told Xiang Wai. "My memories of her are all blurry."

    "It''s understandable, you were very young," said Song Xin''ai. "Another example is your aunt Chenyan. You don''t have to look for your grandma in your memories. Just look at Chenyan and you''d find her. I tell you, your grandma was just as dense as her. If your grandpa hadn''t been the active party in their rtionship and held on to her, things would have been different."

    Xiang Waiughed and said, "This is my first time hearing this. I thought it was my grandma who started it all. Because grandpa doesn''t look like it."

    "Your grandpa was very different before he got into that ident and lost his ability to walk. Although it''s true that your grandma was very active, she only knew how to tease. However, when it came to taking responsibility, she''d be the first to run away."

    Xiang Wai listened to all of this with interest. She didn''t know why she argued so much with her mother over the years. It seemed it wasn''t that difficult to get along with her as she always thought. Was it really because she was hot-tempered and was just unwilling to understand her mother''s point of view?

 Chapter 1157 Enemy Of Your Love

    Chapter 1157 Enemy Of Your Love

    "I have to see Uncle Zhao," said Raelle to Shui Xian in the elevator. "So, I''ll go to his penthouse. If I waited for him toe out, I''d have to waste half a day of mine."

    "Yes, and time is very precious."

    "It is. Don''t I have to spend that time with my husband?"

    Shui Xian was speechless and pursed his lips to hide his smile. He touched her head, "Then you go to look for him and I''m going to our room to pack our things."

    "Okay," agreed Raelle readily.

    And that''s why Shui Xian got down from the elevator on the floor where they stayedst night. It wasn''t that he didn''t trust others but he still wanted to go and pack their things. After all, there was a very important engagement gift ced in the room.

    He went back to the presidential suite and opened the door. Stepping inside, he looked around reminiscing the moments fromst night before shaking his head. If he continued to indulge in those memories, he can forget about getting anything done today.

    As he picked up his suit jacket from the sofa, he paused as he recalled something. He touched the pocket of the coat and took out the envelope from inside.

    He stared at the envelope that he received from his mother''swyerst night but he didn''t read itst night because he knew he wouldn''t be able to go through the night if he really opened this letter.

    But now, he couldn''t avoid it.

    He couldn''t possibly keep this letter sealer for good. He was actually looking forward to what was written in this letter that his mother left for him. But at the same time, he was a little fearful too.

    He sat down on the sofa to calm himself down first.

    Only after calming his emotions did he open the envelope and took out the letter slowly. He unfolded the letter paper slowly.

    Looking at the familiar handwriting, he was a bit dazed. He breathed out of his mouth and started reading the letter...

    ''My dearest son, Xian,

    This is your mother''s hello from the afterlife. If this letter is opened, then I''m obviously not there. So, you can consider this a hello from me.

    I think I have a lot to say to you. So, be patient with your mother. Don''t get impatient like you always do. I''m not even there. I hope you have enough patience for your mother''s ''nagging'' now.''

    Just these few sentences and Shui Xian felt like he couldn''t go on. He felt like his mother was stabbing his heart with a knife through her words. They were filled with sarcasm but he couldn''t refute ''I know you think your mother is a weirdo and very entric. After all, this mother always wanted to control your life. You must hate them. He was the one who really got impatient with her. Especially, after he went to high school.

    He never had time for her. Because he thought she was always trying to nag him. He believed that his mother was just against him in everything in those years.

    He really wanted to tell her that he had patience. He had a lot of patience now. But what was the point when she wasn''t there anymore?

    He bit his lip to stop himself from crying and continued to read:

    ''I know you think your mother is a weirdo and very entric. After all, this mother always wanted to control your life. You must hate me for that, I can understand it very well. I mean I know the feeling. I had the same feelings towards my own parents back then. How could I not understand it?

    I am not sure if you learned about my failed love. The chances are that you don''t know since your father will never speak a word of it. Ah-Shing is a weird man. In all these years of our marriage, not even once did he say a word about the atrocities I had done in my youth.

    Just like you, I also had someone I loved all my life. I went against everyone to get him. But what was the point? I had to pay a very heavy price for that love.

    So, when I first held you in my arms, I didn''t want you to go through any of the things that I had to go through. Do you know why parents work so hard in their life? They don''t just want to provide their kids with a better life. Actually, parents take all the risks in life so that they can pave the way for their kids. They face the failures so that they can lead their kids better and make sure that their kids could avoid the same failures as they did.

    My case wasn''t all that different either. I didn''t want you to have a failed love like mine. It hurts. I know it does. How can I want my son to go through that pain which I had to face?

    You must be thinking again that I''m whimsical.

    You told me that I was imposing my decisions on you. I had no right to stop you from loving someone.

    You''re right. I really had no right to stop you from loving her. The thing is, I think by doing it, I might have activated your rebellion. The more I stopped you, the more you wanted to do it. It doesn''t matter.

    But as they say, you can''t stop feeling. Especially, a feeling like love that works like a charm and bewitches you. I have never doubted your feelings for Tang Hebe or hers for you. But I learned from experience that feelings aren''t the only thing needed in life. Because over time, you find that life needs a lot more than just love.

    You told me that I''m not irvoyant. I can''t possibly know that your and Tang Hebe''s love will have a bad ending. But the thing is, something like that doesn''t need me to be a irvoyant to know at all. You never understood my point because you looked at me as the enemy of your love.''

 Chapter 1158 [Bonus chapter] I Am Such A Person

    Chapter 1158 [Bonus chapter] I Am Such A Person

    Shui Xian seemed to be reliving those moments all over again at that moment. Each and every moment where he told those words to his mother was reying in his mind and making him more and more ufortable.

    ''You might have thought that I had selfish intentions and wanted to control you but it was never my intention. Why would I want to control your life? Did I have nothing better to do in life? Do you really think my life revolved around you that much?

    The truth is, my dear son, my life didn''t revolve around you. I love you. I really do. But I had more important things in my life too. So, why would I waste my time on you and your stupid love life?

    I''d rather take that time to go and find my lost sister out there!''

    Shui Xian pursed his lips when he read that and he could feel that if his mother was here, he''d really poke his forehead and tell him all this. But he also wanted to tell her that her lost sister was back. Yue Yue wasn''t lost. She was with them and had a son too.

    ''I''ll tell you honestly, I was very disappointed when you told me to stop controlling you or dictating your life. Just trying to stop you from going through the pain that I went through, I became your enemy. I didn''t mind it all that much as long as I could still save you from the pain.

    Eventually, it seemed it wasn''t possible.

    You might think that parents just want to control their kids but the truth is not always like that. There are indeed some heartless ones who do want to control their kids but I was never a part of those heartless ones. But I have always been selfish. If I wasn''t selfish, I wouldn''t get my brother killed because of my love.

    When it came to you, I was selfish again. But then again, all parents are selfish when ites to their kids. You''re a part of me. Do you really think I want to see you unhappy? No, I never did. My selfishness was only this that I wanted to see you happy. That''s it.

    That was all that I wished for in my life.

    You can''t possibly say that I was wrong for being this selfish. When you have your own kid, you''d understand that when you love your kids, you really be a little more selfish than usual.

    No one knows the Tang family better than me. I have no doubt that they''d y evil games again if you insisted on marrying Tang Hebe. I have seen their true faces. They are all demons in the skin of humans who put their own interests above everything and I would never doubt that they can use Tang Hebe as a chess piece to hurt you and to hurt me through you.

    Why?

    You might have not noticed but over the years, I and your father have always tried to suppress the Tang family in the business. We always did and we always seeded. After all, the real pir of their sess had long abandoned them. Or it''s better to say that they made him so disappointed that he left.''

    Shui Xian feltplicated when she mentioned this. She knew she was talking about Tang Hebe''s uncle who was her first love too. Because he did learn from Mu Chenyan that only that person could really take the Tang family to the next height of sess. It''s sad that his own family plotted against him and he fell for it.

    All because the people after him were his most trusted ones... His own family.

    ''Let''s not talk about that. Let''s talk about your rtionship with Tang Hebe. You said it could seed because of love? But, my dear son, I learned from experience that feelings aren''t the most necessary part of a happy life. Feelings aren''t essential because they can also change over time. You never know and you can never have a guarantee of things like feelings that you can''t even see or touch.

    You can hold Tang Hebe''s hand to face the world but for how long? How long can you resist the hatred that the two families share? Do you really think you can shake off everything and pretend like this have nothing to do with you? But how tiring would it be to resist? And can you do it for a lifetime? Eventually, resentment will slowly creep up between the walls of love.

    I''ll tell you honestly when I decided to stay back and not leave the country with my family back then. It wasn''t just because I was embarrassed or guilty. It was because I wanted revenge. I wanted to kill everyone from the Tang family. And I did n everything for that too. I was all ready to burn their Tang House to ashes and burn along with them but an anomaly came between my n and me.

    It was all your father''s fault for running to me with different excuses every other day to brush up his presence and eventually making me realize how foolish I was to think that by ending myself and ending the whole Tang family, everything will end. Even if I hated them, I couldn''t make myself suffer with them.''

    Shui Xian was startled when he read these words and his eyes widened in shock. He always looked at his mother as capable, well-behaved, elegant, soft-spoken, and independent. Where did he know that his mother also had such a side?

    He never even realized that the fire of hatred in his mother''s heart for the Tang family was inextinguishable. No matter what he said or did, she''d never stop hating everyone rted to the Tang family. It was already her being nice that she never really did anything to Tang Hebe and let her go with just her words.

    But if it wasn''t for her upbringing, he had no doubt that his mother might have even stretched out her hands to Tang Hebe.

    This thought really subverted his views regarding his mother.

    ''You think I won''t do it? But you don''t know. I am such a person. I was fully capable of going to extremes.''

 Chapter 1159 Ciao!

    Chapter 1159 Ciao!

    ''Because once you start feeling like a sinner. You''ll never be able to escape that feeling. I can tell you that I am unable to do it. I still consider myself the sinner of the Qian family. It never changed over the years. It''s been so many years and I can''t bring myself to face my sister-inw or my own nephew. After all, I was the reason their family was destroyed.

    Xian, life is unpredictable you have heard but humans are more so.

    You thought I was a nice person but I can assure you, I had my moments too. None of us is a saint. How is it possible to avoid all the darkness in the world?''

    Shui Xian ced a hand on his forehead as he rubbed his temples. He understood everything his mother said a lot better at this time when she was no more. After all, he also felt like a sinner. No matter how hard he tried to convince himself, he still eventually ended up feeling like he was the reason his mother was no more.

    ''Do you know why I liked Raelle so much? From the very first moment I saw her, I liked her. It was an instant and inexplicable liking. Honestly speaking, I can''t tell you the reason why I like her so much but I just did.

    If this letter is in your hands, I''m gonna assume that you really failed in love. I''m sorry for that! My poor son! You must have suffered but don''t let that pain consume you. You need to move on in life and look at the brighter future ahead of you.

    The things I said previously really don''t matter. You must be getting together with Raelle. I shouldn''t even mention the past. This is like my dreaming true.

    I wrote earlier that darkness does taint us all but when I met Raelle, I realized that there were exceptions to everything. Raelle was that exception. I couldn''t see anything in her eyes but at the same time, I saw all her innocence that could ensnare you. If you spent some time with her, you''d understand it.

    Yes, I agree that having Raelle as a partner might feel tiring to you at first since she isn''t well-versed in the ways of emotions. But she is a very interesting person. There is no impurity in her eyes. She says what she sees and what she understands. And I assure you, she understands and sees a lot more than us.

    My obsession with her is also this. I want her to bring her calmness into your life. And I want you to add some emotions to her life. You bothpliment each other, no matter how you look at it.

    All my life, I had been against the idea of parents choosing the partner of their kids. I never thought one day I''de to that stage too and insist on making a girl my son''s wife. But to be honest, her chances of liking you are a lot lesser than your chances of liking her.

    She is so perfect. How can you not like her? But the question I''m curious about is, whether she can like you? You who are so sensitive about everything and impulsive and stubborn and rebellious. All these traits aren''t in her at all. So, I''m very worried right now. However, if this letter is opened then the chances are that she does like you which I can''t bring myself to imagine.''

    Shui Xian''s face scrunched up when he read his mother''s disgust for him in those words. So, she really thought he was so worthless that Raelle won''t even like him? He couldn''t believe that this was the same mother who used to tell him how much she loved him and how handsome he was. And now, she was questioning his charms?

    He very much wanted to say that his wife was in love with him! And she loved this face of his too! That reminded him that he should pay more attention to maintaining this face and figure. What if his wife''s eyes wandered off? Well, she wasn''t that easily influenced but he couldn''t take it for granted too. He had to put in effort too.

    ''But if she really does like you at the point of you reading this letter, good for you son! You really have exceeded my expectations for you. So, rest assured! I''m proud of you!''

    Shui Xian rolled his eyes.

    ''Lastly, I''d like to say, Xian, I hope you are happy right now. Don''t miss me so much. I might not be there with you but my best wishes will always be with you. Your happiness means the world to me. I hope you take care of yourself. Because only then can you take care of your father too. That man won''t say anything but I know him. We shared the same pillow for so long. How can I not understand him?

    Koko must be very lonely. I hope he could move on but knowing him, I''m sure he won''t. Your mother wasn''t that pitiful in life, son. I was also someone''s first love. Where I didn''t know, your father loved me for so long. So what if I didn''t get my first love? At least, Koko did. He hated it when I called him Koko. But when I''m not there, I''m sure he won''t mind it at all.

    You better take care of him and also of your sister. Sying doesn''t have the same affection for family as you always did. She loved freedom a lot more. I understand that. So, I hope you be a good elder brother and keep an eye on her. Don''t let her be wronged.

    Also, most importantly, you better don''t hurt my Raelle. I don''t minding as a ghost to haunt you!

    Now, I should stop here. I feel like I''m giving you too many responsibilities. But I can''t help it. I''m not there now. So, you have to take your position as my eldest son.

    Keep smiling! Keep shining! And keep loving with all your heart and soul as you do!

    Ciao!''

    Shui Xian rubbed the paper in his hand with his finger and kept looking at thest words. In the end, he didn''t cry like he thought. It seems his mother didn''t wish to make him that sad.

 Chapter 1160: [Bonus chapter] My Territory

    Chapter 1160: [Bonus chapter] My TerritoryRaelle stood in front of the penthouse and rang the bell. Only after a minute, the door opened and Xia Zhao stood in front of her.

    "Hello, Uncle Zhao!"

    Xia Zhao smiled gently at her and moved aside, "Come inside."

    "Thank you!" said Raelle and entered the penthouse.

    "I went to look for youst night but Yanzi didn''t let me knock on your door," told Xia Zhao.

    Raelle touched her nose and answered, "Sorry about that. I was the one who troubled you and I didn''t keep my word."

    "It''s okay," responded Xia Zhao. "I can wait. There is no need to feel like you bothered me."

    "Elle!"

    Raelle looked up at Mu Chenyan who suddenly tensed up a bit.

    "Yanyan, morning!"

    "Morning!" responded Mu Chenyan. "Did you have breakfast? Do you want to eat something?"

    "No, I had breakfast with everyone," answered Raelle. "You don''t need to pay so much attention to me. I don''t forget to eat. You trained me well in that department."

    Mu Chenyan rxed a little when she heard that.

    "Just rx, Yanyan," said Raelle. "Why are you so nervous in front of me? Did you do something wrong?"

    "Huh?" Mu Chenyan was stumped and unconsciously looked at Xia Zhao.

    "Even if you did something wrong, I''d still be with you."

    Mu Chenyan smiled at that, "Even if it goes against your rules?"

    "I can bend a little for you," replied Raelle. "I don''t mind at all."

    Mu Chenyan walked over and hugged her, "Aiyo! My Elle is so sweet. Why are you so sweet?"

    "Maybe because I have you in my life to add sweetness."

    Mu Chenyan gasped, "That son-inw of mine is really working hard to teach you sweet talking. No wonder he is my favorite son-inw. But don''t let him know. What if he got inted from praises?"

    "Don''t worry. My husband is very down to earth."

    "You stay here and talk to Zhao. I''ll go," said Mu Chenyan.

    "There is no need to," said Raelle. "There is nothing that you can''t listen to."

    Mu Chenyan gave Xia Zhao a smug look, "See? I told you my Elle doesn''t keep secrets from me and yet you refused to tell me anything."

    Xia Zhao looked helpless but he still said, "I just said that Raelle didn''t tell me that I was allowed to speak about this to anyone. Why else would I keep it from you? Do I dare to hide anything from you?" He gestured toward the living room and said, "Let''s sit down and talk. There is no need to stand here."

    "Yes, yes," said Mu Chenyan and pulled Raelle to sit down with her on the sofa generously. Then she turned to Xia Zhao and said naturally, "What are you standing there for? Huh? Go and get something to drink for my Elle!"

    "Yes, boss!" said Xia Zhao, and immediately went to get something for Raelle.

    Raelle noticed this silently before saying, "You are already ordering him around?"

    "When did I stop?" asked Mu Chenyan. "I have been ordering him all my life. Am I not supposed to?"

    "Isn''t it strange though, my dear Yanyan? You never even questioned why you''re allowed to order him around. Why did you take it so naturally?"

    Mu Chenyan was stumped.

    "I never thought my Yanyan could be stumped by something like this," said Raelle. "I always thought you were very smart."

    "Not more than you," said Mu Chenyan. "I could never be smarter than you and that''s for sure."

    "But I always thought in the feelings department, you''re better than me. Now, it seems the reason why I stayed so slow was because even my Yanyan didn''t know anything about feelings."

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her nose, "Did I fail?"

    "Not at all," replied Raelle. "You can never fail."

    Mu Chenyan smiled at her, knowing very well that she''d never be wrong in front of Raelle. Her Raelle just thought of her as the best and she knew it. No matter how rational she was, Raelle still had a thick filter on her eyes when she faced Mu Chenyan. But that couldn''t be helped either.

    Xia Zhao brought a ss of fresh fruit juice for Raelle.

    "You don''t have to do this, Uncle Zhao," said Raelle. "I really just had breakfast."

    "That''s why I only brought you some juice. If I didn''t know you had breakfast, I''d have brought you some home-made snacks too."

    "You even keep snacks here?" asked Raelle. "I don''t think you live here?"

    "I made those in the morning," answered Xia Zhao.

    "For Yanyan?"

    Xia Zhao didn''t answer but didn''t deny it either.

    "Don''t think so much about it," said Mu Chenyan to chance the topic. "You don''t have to worry about bothering him. This is also my territory and that means, you can do whatever you want. Isn''t that right, Zhao?"

    Xia Zhao''s smile deepened and he nodded his head, "Indeed. This is your territory. I''m your property. I''m at your service, Yanzi!"

    "That''s more like it."

    Raelle looked at their interaction and understood once again why Shui Xian was able to see their feelings so clearly even when these two hadn''t recognized their own feelings. They are really meant for each other. One is willing to order and the other is willing to listen. She never thought Xia Zhao would be this kind of a person but thinking again, it didn''t seem all that wrong either.

    From her observation, she hade to a conclusion.

    Their Xiang family''s people always found whipped partners. Whether it was she or Wai and now even Mu Chenyan.

    Raelle slowly drank the juice since she didn''t want to waste Xia Zhao''s efforts either. How could she? Since he made it specifically for her, then she had to give him enough face and drink all of it.

    "Elle, what are you looking at?" asked Mu Chenyan when she noticed the way Raelle was looking at the two of them. It made her a bit self conscience. After all, she was all too familiar with Raelle''s piercing eyes that could see the unseen! Okay, it wasn''t that magical but still, Raelle definitely saw more than most people did.

    At least, she didn''t think she observed things as closely as Raelle did.

 Chapter 1161: Much Like Him

    Chapter 1161: Much Like Him"I''m looking at you," answered Raelle calmly. "Why? I''m not supposed to look at you now?"

    Mu Chenyan''s brows furrowed up a little when she heard that. "You can look all you want but I''m just curious. Aren''t you tired of looking at me? What''s there to look after all these years? Is there something new?"

    "New," responded Raelle. "I seem to see a whole new Yanyan right now. Can''t you feel it yourself?"

    Mu Chenyan scratched her eyebrow and said, "I can''t feel it at all. I thought I was the exact same as before."

    "Then you really don''t see what I can see," said Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan chuckled, "Of course, I can''t. How can anyone have the same perception as you?"

    "Really?" asked Raelle and looked at Xia Zhao who sat there straight without interrupting them but his eyes were set on Mu Chenyan all this while. "What about you, Uncle Zhao? Can you see what I can see in her right now?"

    Xia Zhao was a bit startled at being prompted to talk but he still nodded honestly, "I can see it."

    "What do you see?" asked Mu Chenyan in frustration. "What are you both even talking about? Tell me about it. Don''t just keep it from me now."

    Both Xia Zhao and Raelle shared a look that exasperated Mu Chenyan even more. Why were people hiding things from her now? And especially these two?

    It was actually difficult for both Xia Zhao and Raelle to tell what was different about Mu Chenyan but they could tell it was different. This change wasn''t in how she looked. It was the look in her eyes. It was inexplicable.

    "By the way, thank you, Uncle Zhao," Raelle changed the topic to stop Mu Chenyan from thinking about this for hours.

    "Why are you thanking him?" asked Mu Chenyan and even Xia Zhao raised his brow inquisitively at her.

    "For the calming incense you gave mest night," answered Raelle. "My husband likes it a lot. His sleep quality is much better now. He said he feels a lot lighter, rxed, and energized after the sleep. And we didn''t even use it for that long."

    Xia Zhao smiled at her, "I''m d it helped. Tell me when you finish it and I''ll send it to you again."

    "Why? Don''t you know to send it without asking? Is this the way you''re gonna court me by being like this to my dear Elle?"

    Xia Zhao looked at Mu Chenyan helplessly, "I didn''t mean that. Okay, I''ll send it to Raelle on time every month. Is that okay?"

    "Sounds better," said Mu Chenyan.

    Raelle had to say that she had never seen this unreasonable version of Mu Chenyan. And she didn''t seem to think she was going overboard. It all seemed so natural to her that even Raelle was a bit surprised. This was the same Mu Chenyan who taught her to be reasonable in life and not do anything excessive.

    "I actually did want to ask for more," started Raelle. "But not for my husband but for my B¨¤. His sleep quality is really bad. And it''s definitely not because of age, I understand that for sure."

    "It''s because he had stopped going out and socializing with people," answered Mu Chenyan. "Shing Ge is very alone. He just wants to hide himself in the house. He stopped meeting any of his friends or anything. There should be some new activities in life. And don''t say, he loves ying online games. I meant he needs to have some outdoor activities to improve his lifestyle. He is gonna get old very soon otherwise. Even my Elder Xiang has a better mindset and outlook on life than him."

    "You don''t need to be so critical about my B¨¤ now," said Raelle. "Understand him a bit. He isn''t able to let go of a lot of things. It isn''t his fault either."

    "I''ll send you the incense," said Xia Zhao. "But Yan Zi is right. You should tell him to go out a little more. Fresh air is very helpful to people. Even if he goes for a walk to the park in the evening, it''d be very beneficial."

    "I''ll do that," replied Raelle. "Why don''t you tell me the cost of those incense? I don''t feelfortable taking it from you. Once or twice might be okay but I can''t disturb you for so long."

    Xia Zhao smiled other, "But there is no cost."

    "How is that possible?" asked Raelle. "Everything has a cost."

    "But I grew the herbs in my own medicinal fields. How can there be a cost when the ingredients are all at home?"

    "Labor also needs cost," Raelle justified.

    "You''re very persistent," said Xia Zhao. "But I can''t take your money. I really don''tck it for sure. Besides, it''s not like I''m gonna make it especially for you. I always prepare it for myself every month. So, there is no extra effort."

    "Yes, you don''tck money," agreed Raelle. Thinking of something, she looked at her Yanyan and said, "How about I offer my Yanyan to you? Won''t that be the best deal?"

    "Hey!" Mu Chenyan suddenly jumped up. "How can you make a deal like this?"

    "Why? You aren''t willing to be with him?" asked Raelle.

    "I..." Mu Chenyan opened her mouth and looking at Raelle and then looking at Xia Zhao, she couldn''t go on and just sat back down, saying, "Go ahead. Sell me. At least, I am of some use to my Elle. My purpose of life will beplete if I am able to help you."

    "So emotional?"

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips and sniffed, "Don''t even ask."

    "Well, he didn''t even say if he wants this deal? What if Uncle Zhao thinks I''m cheating on him?"

    Mu Chenyan red at Xia Zhao, "You dare? Am I not worth the deal?"

    "I''m the most innocent person here," reminded Xia Zhao. "I didn''t even say a word regarding this. How am I still being med for this?"

    "Because I can''t me her," whispered Mu Chenyan to him. "Understand?"

    Xia Zhao nodded in understand, "Understand. It''s all me. I''m the one to me."

    Raelle looked at these two and thought that if Mu Chenyan really married Xia Zhao, she''d be really happy. This man would really do anything for her. There was no doubt about that.

    Suddenly, Mu Chenyan turned to Raelle, "Just because I don''t me you for anything doesn''t mean I''m not sad."

    "What did I do?" asked Raelle.

    "You went to look for him behind my back," told Mu Chenyan in dissatisfaction. "Did you have no faith in your Yanyan anymore?"

    Raelle understood instantly. It was about Chi Xirui''s matter that she went to look for Xia Zhao and didn''t tell Mu Chenyan. She did think that Mu Chenyan would be upset about this.

    "My first choice was always you, Yanyan," told Raelle. "It''s just that you''re focused on looking for Chi Xirui''s past. While I wanted to know how she was connected to me. So, I didn''t disturb you and looked for him instead. After all, Opa said he''d be able to whatever you are able to do. I have to test those words to see whether he is really capable or not."

    "How is he not capable?" asked Mu Chenyan. "He is very capable. You can never doubt his ability. Even if I hate him, I can''t deny that he is too good."

    "So, you hate me?" asked Xia Zhao.

    "I said, if!" she retorted.

    Raelle wasn''t surprised that she wasplimenting Mu Chenyan. She might have a lot of bad words to say about Xia Zhao but she definitely won''t allow others to do the same. Because who would know Xia Zhao''s capability more than Mu Chenyan?

    "I wasted so much of your time," said Mu Chenyan. "What are you doing here? Tell my Elle what she wants to know. How can you make her wait? Do you think she has so much time to waste? She doesn''t! Time is very important to her."

    "Yanyan," called out Raelle. "Rx. I have a lot of time for you."

    "You don''t mind keeping your husband waiting?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "It''s okay. He can wait and he won''t mind waiting either."

    Xia Zhao took out his phone to make a call and all of a sudden, the phone rang from within the living room. "Where is it ringing?" he asked.

    "Under the sofa," Raelle pointed out kindly to help him. Since she could tell better that the phone was ringing from under the sofa where she was sitting right now.

    Xia Zhao got down to take out the phone and looking at the phone, he almost lost him calm but recalling that it wasn''t even surprising, he just let it. "What am I gonna do with this guy? He must have dropped it herest night but didn''t know. Untol now, he doesn''t know that his phone is missing. How very much like Young Master Ru!"

 Chapter 1162: Does It Ring A Bell?

    Chapter 1162: Does It Ring A Bell?"He lost his phone here?" asked Raelle.

    "Lost it? I''m more inclined to believe that he purposely got rid of his phone here," responded Xia Zhao. "He and his allergy to carrying electronic devices."

    "It seems he likes the old-fashioned life,"mented Raelle.

    "You don''t understand," said Xia Zhao and shook his head. "Forget it. I already had no hope of calling his number. I should call someone else." Saying that he dialed another number, "Jinzhi, where is Young Master Ru?"

    "I''m also looking for him, Little Uncle," came the response.

    Xia Zhao was speechless, "Isn''t it your responsibility to keep an eye on him?"

    "Yeah, but the premise for that is that Young Master Ru is willing to be watched. It seems he ran out of patience today and now, we are all looking for him."

    Xia Zhao hung up the phone and looked at Raelle apologetically, "I''m sorry. It seems you''ll have to wait a little bit."

    "It''s okay," said Raelle. "But what''s going on? Can''t find him?"

    "Mhmm..." hummed Xia Zhao in response. "I really hope he is found or else, it''d be a disaster."

    "Disaster? Where is the disaster?"

    Xia Zhao looked up and saw the person he was thinking about walking in from the main door leisurely. Xia Zhao almost had the urge to go and beat him up but he held back. Instead, he went to look out the balcony making everyone confused.

    "Little Uncle, what are you doing?" asked Ru.

    "I''m trying to see if the sun really came out from the west this morning. Why else would you enter my ce through the door twice in the same morning?"

    Ru rolled his eyes at Xia Zhao. "This is why I say, people are never happy with you. No matter what you do, they''d find reasons to nitpick. When I came through window, you repeatedly told me to use the door. Now that I am entering through the door like a gentleman, you''re still finding faults with it? This is not the way it should be Little Uncle. Be content with what you get in life."

    "You? A gentleman? I highly doubt that," responded Xia Zhao. "Did I tell you the passcode of the door to my penthouse?"

    "No," answered Ru.

    "Then how did you open the door?" asked Xia Zhao.

    "Is that even difficult? It''s just a door. Can it stop this young master?"

    "Exactly! I don''t think this is something a gentleman would do."

    "See? You''re finding faults again," remarked Ru. Noticing the presence of Mu Chenyan and Raelle there, Ru added, "Little Uncle, you''re certainly having a beautiful morning in the presence of beautifuldies." Then he waved at the two of them saying, "Hello, beautifuldies!"

    "Where were you?" asked Xia Zhao. "Jinzhi said they can''t find you."

    Ru shrugged, "They have been toox these days. Let them do some work. How else will they stay fit?"

    "Is it your age to prank them? All of them are younger than you," reminded Xia Zhao.

    "Or else? Should I y a prank on you instead?"

    "Respect the elders and love the young ones."

    "This is my way of loving them, Little Uncle. Now, stop asking questions." Then he ignored Xia Zhao and looked at Raelle, "Yo! Miss Hundred Questions, how are you feeling?"

    "Very good," answered Raelle.

    "Ru..." Xia Zhao wanted to say something again and Ru held up his hand to stop him.

    "Little Uncle," started Ru. "If you have nothing better to do, please go, take your girlfriend and go for a walk or something. Stop talking." She looked at Raelle, "And you said, he doesn''t like talking that much? Look at him! He is always after me whenever he sees me."

    Xia Zhao sat down and said, "Fine. I won''t talk now. You tell Raelle what you found."

    "You really found something?" asked Raelle to Ru.

    "You doubt me?" asked Ru. "Don''t worry. I might not know the secrets of the universe, but I''m still very good."

    "I don''t doubt that," replied Raelle honestly.

    Ru turned to Xia Zhao, "Little Uncle, do you have a tablet? Laptop? Desktop?"

    "I have it," said Xia Zhao and took it from the side table. He gave it to Ru who started operating on it and he asked, "What are you doing?"

    "Connecting your tablet to mywork," answered Ru. Only after a few seconds, he looked up at Raelle and said, "I believe your question was why you don''t have the memory of saving someone while the person who was saved had kept you on her mind even till her death."

    "Yes," nodded Raelle. "I''m unable to understand it. I don''t think my memory is wrong."

    "It''s not," answered Ru. "I''ll give you a date. With your memory, I believe you''ll figure out how, when, and where you saved that girl and became her savior without knowing it."

    Raelle straightened up, ready to listen. Even Mu Chenyan''s attention was grabbed. All this while, she had been focused on observing Ru but now, she was more curious about this information.

    "Why don''t you just give her the straight answer? Do we have to y this game?" asked Xia Zhao.

    "Uncle, you''re getting in my way," said Ru. She looked at this uncle a bit weirdly. Howe he was a lot more active and talkative than usual? His eyes slightly moved towards Mu Chenyan who had been silent all this while and his brows rxed as if he understood everything clearly.

    "Don''t worry. Just give me the date. I''m sure I''ll recall everything if you believe I will."

    "October 22, 20XX," said Ru. "Does it ring a bell?"

    Raelle''s mind worked faster and she seemed to be pulled back to that exact date that Ru just said. Her pupils dted a little as if she really understood the mystery that she hadn''t been able to solve all this while. It took her so long to look around for answers but only now did she got all the answers.

 Chapter 1163: [Bonus chapter] Overlooked

    Chapter 1163: [Bonus chapter] Overlooked"Elle, do you remember?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Raelle nodded her head, "I do. In fact, you''d also know it." Mu Chenyan''s brows furrowed up in confusion and Raelle added, "I was on Coral Bay ind that day."

    Mu Chenyan had a look of understanding as soon as she heard it. Being the person to whom the security team of Raelle reported, how could she be oblivious to what happened that day?

    "Those people weren''t after me?" asked Raelle to Ru even though she was already certain about the answer.

    "Nope," answered Ru. "Their target was never you. You just happened to be there at that time. Those people were after the girl you know as Chi Xirui. They wanted her. But your security team was too vignt and seeing that they were suspicious people, they attacked first and cleared their suspicionter as per their orders. After all, they won''t take any chances with your security." He took a brief pause and added, "She gave birth to her son, Xiang Ziyang on that ind."

    Raelle was stumped while Mu Chenyan was startled a bit.

    "Her son''s name is Justin," said Raelle.

    "If you say it like that, then his mother also has many names, no? Why would it be so difficult for you to find her? She registered her son''s birth on Coral Bay under the name, Xiang Ziyang. As for why she told the name Justin to his adopted mother, Tang Hebe, we''ll have to understand her history a little bit for that."

    "What''s her history?" asked Mu Chenyan this time around. "She isn''t from that remote mountainous vige for sure."

    "Oh no, her mother was from there. She? She was born and raised in Country I." Ru looked at them and said, "I should say, your family is very fortunate and blessed. Without even knowing anything, Raelle managed to save the life of her nephew. I can assure you, if your security team hadn''t been mistaken that day, two lives would be gone and you would never see your nephew. That is why that girl remembered your life-saving grace until her death. She was actually a good girl who never forgot people''s kindness. Tsk. Unfortunately, she wasn''t that fortunate in life."

    "Did she offend someone?" asked Raelle. "I remember those people. They didn''t look like any normal criminal group."

    "Of course, they weren''t just any criminals. There has to be some distinction between the Mafia and the petty gangsters, no?" asked Ru. "Why else would their social status be so different?"

    "Mafia?" Mu Chenyan caught on.

    Ru nodded, "Isn''t it obvious? How can you miss it? Her name was Genevieve D''Amico! It''s a clear giveaway. The very first time, little Uncle mentioned that name, the first person that came to my mind was Raphael D''Amico!"

    "Who is that?"

    "You don''t know?" asked Ru in surprise. "How can you not know? He is the Godfather of the biggest Mafia Empire in the Country I. How can you not know?"

    "Why would she know?" Xia Zhao finally interrupted Ru. "You''re asking the wrong person, Ru. Raelle would not know these things."

    Ru nodded at that, "True. You grew up in the world of light. How can you be familiar with the dark world? It''s my mistake for overlooking this detail."

    "Who is Rapheal D''Amico to Chi... No, to Genevieve?" asked Raelle.

    "He is her father," answered Ru. "Her birth father."

    "She was the daughter of a Mafia boss?" asked Mu Chenyan with a frown but slowly, she understood a lot too. No wonder, everything seemed to be shrouded in mystery when she looked into that girl. How could it not be? If it was easy to find the information rted to Mafia groups, wouldn''t that underworld perish by now?

    They really had the means to protect their own and that''s why they were still able to rule.

    "Correct! She was not just the daughter of the Godfather of the Mafia. She was his little princess. Because Mr. Raphael had only one daughter all his life. So, it''s not surprising that he loved her so much. The only person Mr. Raphael loved more than his daughter was his wife. As in, Genevieve''s mother. The same person was sold by her own family to human traffickers when she was so young. But I guess that was the biggest blessing in disguise for someone like her."

    Raelle was very interested in this now and asked, "Tell me more."

    "About what?" asked Ru. "Didn''t you get your answers?"

    "Not yet."

    "How is that possible?" teased Ru. "Didn''t you just want to know why she took you as her savior? You have the answers now."

    "The nature of this is different now," said Raelle reasonably. "Now, I''m more interested in her since she is the birth mother of my nephew. I have to understand her background and what exactly happened back then."

    "Your curiosity is still very alive,"mented Ru. "But it''s okay. I''ll give you the answers you want. I''m very good at finding answers." He put the tablet in his hand in front of Raelle and pointed at the picture, "This is Jennifer Chi. She is Genevieve''s mother."

    "She looks beautiful," said Raelle truthfully.

    "Huh! Why else would a Mafia heir fall in love with her?" asked Ru.

    "He saved her life?" asked Raelle.

    Ru shook his head, "No, it''s not that dramatic either. Because if Mr. Raphael had seen her when she was sold by her parents, he''d only feel pity for her but nothing else for sure."

    "Why do you say that?" asked Raelle.

    Ru swiped and showed another photo. This one was ck and white picture. And the girl looked to be about 8 or 9 years old. She was so small and thin. So scrawny that it almost looked scary. Her hair was dry like grass and herplexion was so yellow. She looked like she was suffering from some terminal illness.

    "Who is this?" asked Ru.

    Raelle looked up at Ru, "Is this Jennifer?"

    "Bingo!" answered Ru. "You''re good. I like that I don''t have to exin too much. This is her when she was 13 years old."

    "What? She looks like an 8-year-old," said Raelle.

    "You think girls in patriarchal families have three meals a day? It''d be good if they can have something to eat once a day," told Ru.

 Chapter 1164: Wild Man

    Chapter 1164: Wild ManRaelle was a little ufortable when she heard those words from Ru. She suddenly realized how well-protected she had been all her life. She knew about patriarchal families but she actually didn''t expect the extent of their biasedness.

    "Is it that bad?" she asked.

    Ru gave her a look as if he understood what was on her mind and smiled charmingly, "Oh, you''re a lot more innocent than people give you credit for."

    "I don''t think I''m innocent," said Raelle in her defense. She really didn''t think she was innocent. She didn''t understand why she was always given this big title.

    "The extent of your innocence is that you don''t even realize that you''re innocent,"mented Ru. "And yes, it''s not just bad. It''s worse than you think. Your family raised you in a very well-protected environment. You learned a lot of things but you still don''t understand how evil humans can be." He took a pause and swiped the tablet again as he added, "I didn''t want to show you these but it seems I should let you see the world outside of the castle you grew up in."

    Raelle looked at the medical report in front of her and the more she read, the quieter the air around her became. "Did the traffickers do it?"

    "Nope," answered Ru. "These injuries were given by her own so-called family. The traffickers turned out to be a lot more human than her own family. At least, she got to eat a full meal once a day with them. But in her family, she was fed just enough to keep her alive. If she hadn''t been sold at that age, she''d have been sold when she came of age to an old bachelor, a disabled man, or a fool. Well, whoever can offer the highest bid... Oops. I mean, the bride price."

    "Didn''t that all end in thest century?" asked Raelle.

    "Just because we have learned to hide our evilness better, doesn''t mean we have progressed. You need to understand that people are still doing even worse to their own children. Jennifer Chi was just an example of a lucky one who got out of that hell. Call it her fortune but when she was shipped to another country, the traffickers were caught because they had long been targeted. Because of this medical report of hers, the doctors who examined her were actually very sympathetic. Because she had the worst health status of all those kids who were saved at that time. She was timid, cautious, and very cowardly. But somehow the Chi couple liked her so, this kind of doctor couple who had no kids adopted her and named her Jennifer Chi."

    Raelle suddenly recalled the time when she was kidnapped and how she was treated during that time. She had to say the traffickers won''t beat the kidnapped kids to this extent because if the kid died, it''d be a loss to them. But from this medical report, she could tell that whoever hurt Jennifer Chi, obviously wanted her dead.

    She always believed that she wasn''t pitiful just because she was abandoned by her parents. A lot of times when people did pity her, she''d find it bizarre. Because she personally thought that there was nothing to pity about her. She had money, family love, and a high IQ. What else would one need? Did she still seem pitiful?

    And now, her belief was only strengthened because seeing this she realized that the people who really were pitiful were like Jennifer Chi who were hurt by their closest family.

    "How did she meet Raphael D''Amico?" asked Mu Chenyan on purpose just so that Raelle could be distracted from her thoughts. She knew her Raelle well. And she understood that Raelle would recall her own experience. She never wanted her to even think about that incident.

    "They met in high school. When she was already like a flower in bloom. I have to say that the Chi family treated her very well. They did everything to make her recover her health with all the nutritious things. They gave her the best of everything as much as they could. They weren''t considered rich but they certainly did their best to raise their adopted daughter like a princess. Maybe that''s why by the time she reached high school, she was a charmer.

    And history says, a strong man''s downfall is brought by a beauty.

    Let''s say, the same happened to the Godfather of Mafia."

    "You sound very amused,"mented Xia Zhao.

    "Little Uncle, you don''t understand. I never knew about these things and looking at Mr. Raphael you''d never be able to guess that he was a love-sick man. He still is though."

    "Is she alive?" asked Raelle.

    "No," answered Ru. "You should know that. Jeniffer is no longer in this world. Jeniffer and Raphael had only one daughter, Genevieve after eight years of their marriage. So, they loved that daughter even more. But not everything is fair in this world." Ru sighed to himself and stood up to leave.

    "Where are you going? It''s not done yet," called out Xia Zhao.

    "Little Uncle, you didn''t even offer me some water," said Ru. "My mouth is dry after talking so much. This is the worst hospitality I have received in my life. If you weren''t my little uncle, I''d have already blown your head."

    "You don''t need to blow my head. You should have just told me that you''re thirsty. Whyin now?"

    "You didn''t even offer me breakfast when I came earlier. I have no expectations from you."

    Xia Zhao rubbed his nose.

    "Uncle Zhao, you didn''t give your nephew breakfast?" asked Raelle.

    "He doesn''tck my breakfast. Besides, I made that for Yan Zi. Why should I let this wild man take it from under my nose?"

    "Wild man?" came Ru''s voice as he brought a bottle of water with him from the kitchen. "You really treat me too casually these days. Are you forgetting who I am?"

    "Even you forget who you are, is it that strange that I forgot it too?"

 Chapter 1165: [Bonus chapter] Weakness

    Chapter 1165: [Bonus chapter] Weakness"Okay," started Ru after drinking water. "Where were we?"

    "You said not everything is fair in life," said Raelle.

    "Yes," nodded Ru. "So, why did I say that? Because poor Jennifer was short-lived. The woman enjoyed the love of her husband and hisplete devotion. Mr. Raphael was a devil to the world but a very good husband and father. No external force could deter his love for his wife. Not when people said Jennifer Chi''s background wasn''t worthy of him and not even when they said that they won''t have any children. Whatever people said, he didn''t care. He protected his wife from all those words. Sadly, he still couldn''t protect her till the end."

    "Why do you say that?"

    "There are two conjectures out there regarding the death of Jennifer Chi. One says she died of illness. And it''s true that she was ill. After all, her childhood wasn''t good. The root disease couldn''t be eliminatedpletely no matter how much she took care of her health. But after having her daughter, her health was even worse. So, most people do believe that she died because of her illness. However, there is another group of people who share a different opinion."

    "She was killed?" asked Raelle.

    "She was poisoned," said Ru as he looked at Raelle in appreciation. "So many people didn''t like her being the wife of Godfather of the Mafia. How could it be possible for them to let it go? You see, wherever there is power and greed, people can go to any limits. Power is very alluring to people. So they can do insidious things without any burden. Genevieve left Country I and came here to study because of her mother''s death. She wanted to leave that ce. No matter how happy she was, there was always an emptiness considering she wasn''t free enough to make friends casually. She had to have people around her when going out. She couldn''t date. She couldn''t talk to people. There were a lot of restrictions which were indeed for her safety but young girls... They have dreams, expectations, and fantasies. How can they really be happy in that case?"

    Raelle silently took everything in and as she swiped on the tablet that was still in her hands, she found quite a few family photos of Chi Xirui. She looked at Raphael D''Amico in those pictures and no one even had to tell her to know that this man really loved these two women. He always had a gentleness between his brows when he looked at them. And the love was bursting out from those eyes.

    "It''s sad how Mr. Raphael really fell once his wife died. That''s why even if he was hurt, he didn''t stop his daughter from leaving the country in disguise anding far away to this unfamiliar ce to live freely. You know what the most taboo thing in the underworld is?"

    Raelle looked at Ru inquisitively, "What is it?"

    "Having a weakness," answered Ru. "Once you have a weakness, you can be easily manipted. Underworld is a ce filled with coldness. You can never even trust the person who had been with you for all your life because you never know when that person would take the chance to take you down. There might be rules but it''s still aw of the jungle like the rest of the world."

    "Are we all living in a jungle?"

    "No, but we are all following the same rules," said Ru seriously. "You either learn to be a hunter or a prey. There is no third option. Even the ones who try to stand aside and watch might end up giving their lives in between a stampede. That''s the world we live in."

    "No arguments about that," said Raelle. "Now, I understand why and how Chi Xirui aka Genevieve came to this country. Let''s say everything that followed was just the way it was supposed to be. However, she refused to tell my brother that she was pregnant when they met for thest time and even purposely told him things that would make him disgusted with herself. I wonder why?"

    "He might not know this," said Mu Chenyan to Raelle. "You only asked someone to find out Chi Xirui''s background. I don''t think Mr. Ru here spent time on other details."

    "Then you''re underestimating him," remarked Xia Zhao. "Once you tell our Young Master Ru to do something, until and unless he gets to know every single detail, he won''t stop. Am I right, Young Master Ru?"

    Ru looked at her uncle''s creepy smile but still agreed. "How can I not know? Wouldn''t it reduce my credibility if I''m unable to find out the answers to all your questions? How can I be the all-knowing Lord... Ahem!... I mean, Young Master Ru?"

    "You really know the answers?" asked Mu Chenyan strangely. The more she looked at this person, the weirder it was getting. He was already able to get the information that she couldn''t. And now, he even knew a lot more than he was supposed to. How?

    To say that she didn''t use all her means to find Chi Xirui would be wrong. Mu Chenyan also had her connections in the Mafia but she learned nothing about Chi Xirui even after exhausting all her efforts. But this person seemed to have found everything effortlessly.

    She narrowed her eyes suspiciously. She had a very big doubt about the identity of the person in front of her. In fact, she had a name in her mind but she kept refusing to admit it because Ru''s green eyes were throwing her off and making her doubt her own self.

    Suddenly, her eyes were covered by a big hand and a voice came into her ear, "Don''t look at him. Don''t be bewitched. It''s dangerous."

    Mu Chenyan pped Xia Zhao''s hand away and gave him a look, "Really? Am I so easy to be bewitch?"

    "Maybe not, but you should still not stare at him," said Xia Zhao in a low voice. "He doesn''t like people staring at him with such a scrutinizing gaze. Don''t tick him off."

 Chapter 1166: Her Own Situation

    Chapter 1166: Her Own Situation"Little Uncle, if you wanna talk bad about me, at least, do it at a ce where I can''t hear or see," came Ru''s voice. "Don''t discredit me like this right in front of my eyes. It''s not that easy to tick off this young master. If it was so easy, would you still be here?"

    "I''m here because of my own ability," retorted Xia Zhao.

    "It''s good to daydream but don''t get lost in it too much that you lose the sense of reality."

    "Did you just insult me?" asked Xia Zhao.

    "Did I? I don''t think so. I''m just stating facts here. Facts!" Ru decided to let him be and turned to Raelle instead since he was here for this girl anyway. Why else would he exert so much effort to investigate everything clearly? Okay, it didn''t take much of his effort but still... he made the effort, no? "You ask. What else?"

    Raelle nodded and got back to the point, "Why did she leave my brother?"

    "Because she wasn''t the right person to stand beside him."

    "She thought so?" asked Raelle.

    "Actually, if you think about it yourself. She really wasn''t suitable."

    "Why would you say that?"

    "No matter how sweet and kind she might be, she still grew up in the underworld. How innocent do you think she could be? She even dared to set fire to the house of the family who sold her mother years ago. Do you really think she was clean?" asked Ru which made Raelle re-evaluate it again. Indeed, she had overlooked this detail for a moment. "And your brother? Hees from a glorious background. He isn''t just a righteous soldier whose job is to protect the country but alsoes from a family of martyrs. Your family has a very clean history and a glorious one too. If your grandfather wants, he''d still be allowed to even have a say in the cab. You don''t realize the influence of the Xiang family. They didn''t give their lives for this mothend in vain."

    "I never said they did it in vain," said Raelle.

    "Then do you think anyone would like to stain the glorious history of the Xiang family with someone like Genevieve who came from a very different world? You might think that it''s possible since how is it any of her fault that she was born in that environment? True, not her fault. I''ll even say whatever she did was not wrong because when you live in hell, you learn how to be a devil for survival''s sake. There is nothing wrong with that. However, such a person is not eptable as a partner for a soldier. Do you know how detailed the background check is when one files a marriage report in the army? They dig into every single detail of the person before the marriage could be approved," told Ru clearly and as concisely as possible. "You could say that he could leave the army to be with her? But there are two things. One, your brother won''t agree to choose feelings over his job. Your parents didn''t do it, what makes you think he''ll make a different choice? Two, he is an important asset to the army. He was injured on hisst mission, true?"

    "Yes," answered Raelle.

    "Did they let him rest for longer than two weeks?" asked Ru.

    Raelle shook her head, "No, he came to the research center as soon as he could walk on his feet."

    "Exactly! Why? Because he is really an important asset. He is a core member of the Air Force and its research center. Do you think they will let someone walk away with all their core secrets?"

    "I doubt that," said Raelle.

    "Don''t just doubt it. It''s certain!"

    "She knew all of this?" asked Raelle. "Is that why she decided to lie and walk away from him?"

    "Well, it''s not certain whether she knew your brother''s situation but one thing is certain, she knew her own situation very well," said Ru. "No matter what made here to that decision, one thing is certain she was trying to protect your brother. Because by the time, she learned she was pregnant, something happened to her father. Mr. Raphael suddenly fell seriously ill. And when the monarch is ill, the courtiers be restless and their wolf ambitionse out."

    Raelle gave him a look as she mentally agreed with those words. Indeed, when the monarch is weak, how the world be at peace? Why would peasants in ancient times be anxious when the emperor fell ill? Wasn''t it because they knew that the change wasing? And who could be sure whether that change was good or bad? So, they could only feel anxious.

    "Her father sent her a message to hide," said Ru. "So, she had to go in hiding during that time. Considering that she was indebted to your mother, Professor Song Xin''ai who was also her mentor. She really didn''t want to bring her mess into your brother''s life. That''s why she chose to distant herself from him."

    "She never wanted Justin to be recognized by our family?" asked Raelle seriously. She needed the answer to this question since she felt it was very important to her. If the birth mother of Justin didn''t even want their family to recognize Justin, then they had to think this over. Of course, they couldn''t just abandon their own blood but... Raelle shook her head to get rid of these thoughts.

    Ru could almost read all her thoughts clearly which made his lips curl up slightly in amusement. "How is that possible? Which mother would want her own child to grow up in a fatherless family? Certainly, all mothers would want their child to grow up in a happy andplete family, no? So, how could she be different? Do you think if that was the case, she''d name her son, Xiang Ziyang?"

    Raelle fell into thought and didn''t refute those words.

 Chapter 1167: [Bonus chapter] An Enigma

    Chapter 1167: [Bonus chapter] An Enigma"But she kept Justin away from his father for so long? She only died when Justin was about three," said Raelle. "She could have looked for him during that time but she chose to give her son to Tang Hebe."

    "Because that was the safest thing to do," said Ru. "She was on the run all those years because her life was in serious danger. And she was even more cautious when Justin was born. She didn''t want anyone from the D''Amico family to know about her son''s existence or it''ll only make him live in the same environment as she did or he''d be killed. But she didn''t want to choose either. I think what made her convinced to give Justin aplete family was you."

    "Me?"

    "You saved her life. And she recognized you as the Xiang family''s youngest daughter too. She called it fate that her son had with this family. Whether it was Professor Song Xin''ai, Xiang Weimin, or you. All of you came from the same family. Even if Professor Song divorced your father, she is still your mother. So, she wanted her son to be a part of this family. However, she couldn''t find a way either. In the end, she chose Tang Hebe to adopt her son to give her son a legitimate identity and freedom." Ru gave Raelle a meaningful look, "You were the breakthrough to this family."

    "Huh?"

    "She asked Tang Hebe to look for you to repay the life-saving grace," said Ru. "Why? Because she wanted her son to reach the Xiang family. She was smarter than you give her credit for. She knew about your curious nature. And once you did research she believed you''d find the clues. Why else would she leave so many clues for the smart people?

    Raelle had a thoughtful look, "I got calcted by a person I never even met."

    "How does it feel?" asked Ru in amusement.

    "I don''t know," answered Raelle truthfully. "But I guess, I''m not mad. After all, this calction led us to find Justin."

    "I knew you''d say that," said Ru. "And that''s exactly what she wanted. But she didn''t tell the truth to Tang Hebe only because..."

    "She is too naive," Raelle didn''t need Ru toplete that sentence at all. She understood it. "It''s very easy to see through her. But since Genevieve wanted to keep Justin safe, she would rather y the round about game than tell her the truth straightforwardly."

    "So, you''re saying that Tang Hebe''s purpose was always to just bring the Xiang family''s child back home?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "Not really," replied Ru. "Genevieve truly trusted Tang Hebe''s character. She believed she was trustworthy and even if the Xiang family didn''t get to the truth, her son would still be able to grow up in love. She made all the ns. So, the n to give Justin to Tang Hebe to adopt was real. She really wanted Tang Hebe to be her son''s mother."

    "She was very thorough in her ns,"mented Raelle with a little admiration. Of course, she admired it. Even if she was cornered from all sides in danger, she still found a way to keep her son safe, and not only that but she also nned for her son to reach his father. Although the n wasn''t foolproof, there were too many things that could go wrong in between but she still took the risk. Because it was herst resort on her deathbed.

    "That''s why I said she was smarter than you think," said Ru. "She might not have the power to resist the dangers that surrounded her but she certainly had an active brain. If she wasn''t dying, she definitely won''t choose this route. She''d find another way to send Justin to the Xiang family. But sadly, she didn''t have that much time."

    "Fate really yed well," remarked Raelle.

    "Fate... The hand of fate remains an enigma, holding the keys to countless stories yet to be untold," said Ru. "Fate, the mischievous yer, revels in its game. It orchestrates encounters like a masterful puppeteer, pulling invisible strings to bring souls together or tear them apart."

    Seeing how Raelle put her hand to support her chin as she looked at Ru, Ru stopped.

    "What? What are you looking at?"

    "Keep going, I''m listening," said Raelle.

    "Am I reading scriptures here?"

    "I think this sounds more fun than scriptures," replied Raelle.

    Ru shook his head at her, "What I''m trying to say is that you can''t know what fate has in store for you. Even when you might think that fate is in your hands. No darling. Fate only makes you think that it''s in your hands. In truth, humans are a lot more helpless before fate than we like to believe."

    "It''s not scientific," said Raelle.

    "Not everything can be" replied Ru. "Some mysteries of life are beyond the science. You shouldn''t be so rigid in your thinking."

    "So, should I change the way I think?" asked Raelle seriously.

    "No, you don''t have to change yourself. You just have to think out of the box," said Ru. "You got used to yourfort zone growing up. That''s why, your thinking is sometimes rigid. But you have already taken a step out of thosefort zone, it won''t be difficult to see a lot more things that you always didn''t want to see before."

    Raelle lowered her eyes and contemted those words. Did she really got used to herfort zone? What was herfort zone and who made it for her? Howe she was even beginning to question it herself just because this person in front of her said so?

    She only met this green-eyed charmer a couple of times and she was already beginning to believe in his words. Now, she didn''t doubt Xia Zhao''s words. This person was really dangerous and it was difficult to escape his charms. She had to be careful around him from now on.

 Chapter 1168: Handled It

    Chapter 1168: Handled It"You think I grew up in afort zone?" asked Raelle.

    "Didn''t you?" asked Ru in return. "And I think you should ask this question to the person who made thatfort zone for you," added Ru as he looked at Mu Chenyan.

    Raelle also looked at Mu Chenyan. And Mu Chenyan who was suddenly being stared at felt a bit restless for some reason. "What did I do?"

    "A person''s potential is known when they face challenges," said Ru. "You kept giving herfort all your life. She didn''t like socializing, you made a castle for her. She loved to read, you brought her the books from everywhere. She didn''t like the touch of strangers, you learned everything yourself. In the end, you kept making yourself change instead of allowing Raelle to face the world as it was."

    "Was it wrong?"

    "I don''t know," answered Ru. "You should be the judge of that. Think about it. Once Elder Xiang made the decision to get married, things changed slowly. She learned topromise, she learned to love, and she learned emotions."

    Raelle thought about these words a lot more than Mu Chenyan. She did know she was slowly changing but... Was she really stepping out of herfort zone and that was why things changed?

    "You really think I have rigid thinking?" asked Raelle once again.

    "Your beliefs are different than others," said Ru. "Nothing is wrong with that. But you should also know everyone else has their own beliefs too. We all might be called humans but we all have a different gene structure and we are our own individuality. We are all right to have our own beliefs, no? But we don''t have the right to question others'' beliefs."

    "I have heard that before," said Raelle. "I guess even I subconsciously forget that. I''m sorry. I''d try not to question others'' beliefs."

    "There is no need for an apology," replied Ru. "This young master is very generous with adorable people like you."

    "Otherwise you''re not generous?"

    "That... Depends on what mood I am in." Ru drank some more water and showed something else to Raelle on the tablet, "Now, let''s look at this. This is the family tree of the D''Amico family. This is their Mafiawork. I have highlighted what kind of rivalry there is in everything."

    Raelle didn''t know why she was seeing all this but she still studied all the information in front of her. The more she read, the more she realized how dangerous this family was. She understood that if this kind of family really found Justin, the kid won''t end well. And she didn''t want his childhood to be ruined by any of this.

    "I don''t think you do things without thinking," said Raelle. She already understood this much from her observation. "So, why are you showing me these?"

    "Because you caused some trouble," said Ru.

    "I did?" asked Raelle.

    "Not just you but also Ms. Mu Chenyan," answered Ru. "You sent people to look for Chi Xirui''s information and so did, Ms. Mu. But did I mention that the news that Genevieve is dead is not known to her enemies?"

    "What?"

    "They are still looking for her," said Ru. "Not only them but also her father who recently recovered his health. So, you both stirred in already muddy water which made matter a little more serious than it was. People had already started retreating but because of you two, they started looking into this all over again. Do you realize what it means?"

    "They can find Justin if they became desperate," answered Mu Chenyan through gritted teeth as she clenched her teeth. "No. They can''t do it. I won''t let this happen."

    "Really? Can you do it?" asked Ru.

    "Ru, are you looking for a beating?" came Xia Zhao''s voice who had been allowing this nephew of his to show-off all this while.

    "Beating?" repeated Ru. "Who is gonna beat me? You?"

    "I don''t dare," said Xia Zhao. "But should I call the Patriarch?"

    "My Papa can never beat me," was Ru''s response. "Yes, if you call my grandfather and my masters. Then it''d be a different story. They do dare."

    "Stop scaring people. Tell them the truth."

    "Can''t you understand suspense?" asked Ru. "Fine. No need to fret so much. I removed all the traces of his existence. This is the original copy of Justin''s birth certificate. I also removed all the traces of his adoption too. There will be no way for anyone to connect Justin to the D''Amico family from now on." Before Mu Chenyan could breathe a sigh of relief, Ru went on, "Except for one person."

    "Who?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "Raphael D''Amico," answered Raelle instead of Ru. "Right?"

    "Correct! How could a daughter who loved her father so much not let him know about her son? So, yes. Raphael D''Amico knows about Justin. But he doesn''t know where he is. Anyway, even if he knows, chances are he won''te to you guys. After all, he also doesn''t want to add danger into his grandson''s life as it happened with his daughter."

    "Thank you for doing so much," said Raelle sincerely. "You are really a good person."

    Ru pursed his lips while Xia Zhao coughed violently when he heard that. He tried to stop but he really couldn''t help it at the moment and gave Ru a strange look.

    "It''s not that funny, Little Uncle,"mented Ru.

    "Isn''t it?" asked Xia Zhao. "I never thought there''d be someone who''d give you a good person card. It still baffles me."

    "I really can''t take this good person card. Because that''s not who I am," said Ru. "I don''t wanna be a good person. That wasn''t my intention either. It''s just that your family is connected to my own n in some ways. Our history goes way back. That''s why I''d take the trouble to do this much for you. After all, we are taught to protect our own. My grandfather would have wanted me to do this."

    "Still, it''s a big thanks to you that I''m able to understand not only the background of Justin''s mother but also what dangers are involved. I didn''t think it involve so many things. So, thank you so much for your help."

    Ru shrugged nonchntly, "No big trouble."

    "Is there anything I can do to repay this favor?" asked Raelle.

    "You don''t owe me a favor," answered Ru. "I don''t do favors. That''s not my style." Ru stood up and stretched saying, "I think I''m done here." He took the tablet and disconnected it from his ownwork. He gave the tablet back to Xia Zhao, "Little Uncle, you can have it back. Thank you for lending it to me."

    "You didn''t show her everything," whispered Xia Zhao in a voice that only they could hear.

    "There is no need to," was his response. "This much was enough. We shouldn''t talk about unnecessary things especially when I''ve already handled everything."

    "You''re leaving?" asked Raelle.

    "Not yet," said Ru. "I''m gonna make something for myself."

    "You didn''t eat breakfast?" asked Xia Zhao.

    "Did you give it to me?"

    "Did you even need me to give it to you?"

    "You''re stingy. Just ept it. Don''t make excuses here." said Ru. "I have only so many interests in life. How can you deprive me of a meal?"

    "Let me make something for you," said Xia Zhao as he followed him to the kitchen.

    "No thanks. I''ll do it myself. I don''t think I can handle your meal this morning. I don''t deserve it."

    "You''re talking nonsense again,"mented Xia Zhao. "It''s just breakfast. There is no need to say all that."

    "I said I''ll do it," said Ru. "Don''t interfere."

    Raelle stood up and went to the kitchen counter as she asked, "You can cook too?"

    "There is no one in our family who can''t," answered Ru. "It''s the most basic thing. Wouldn''t you die in the wild if you don''t even know how to make a meal? What was it? Ah! Yes. There is a saying, a cook can never go hungry no matter where he is."

    "You say, I''ll definitely not survive then," said Raelle.

    "True," agreed Ru.

    Raelle thought about it and then asked, "Then you teach me something simple? I heard porridge is very simple. And making eggs too."

    "No, you stay where you are. What if you got hurt in the kitchen?"

    Raelle was a bit dumbfounded by that response. It was those words again. All over again! Wasn''t this person who told her to step out of herfort zone? Now, what was this?

    "You told me to do something out of the box," reminded Raelle.

    "I did? Let''s just say that cooking doesn''t involve that."

    "How can you go back on your words?"

    "I never go back on my words," said Ru. "I said to think out of the box. And yourfort zone didn''t involve cooking. This is not your talent. Don''t make trouble. If you get a single cut, it''ll make many people feel distressed. So, the kitchen isn''t a ce for you."

    "They say a gentleman should not step in the kitchen. But here you are," pointed out Raelle.

    "I''m not a gentleman. Not even close!"

 Chapter 1169: Believer & Non-Believer

    Chapter 1169: Believer & Non-Believer"You don''t want the good person card. You don''t ept that you''re a gentleman. What do you mean by that?" asked Raelle. "I honestly think you''re good. Why don''t you?"

    "You don''t know me that doesn''t mean I don''t know myself. I have this self-awareness. I''m not a good person and neither do I want to be. Do you know what happens to good people? They are easily morally kidnapped by bad people. So, I''d rather not take the title of a good person."

    Seeing how Raelle looked at him, Ru''s lips curled into a smirk.

    "What? You must be thinking that I have a bizarre way of talking, right?"

    Raelle honestly nodded, "I don''t know but you give a very different vibe from the people your age."

    "Growing up, I didn''t interact much with people my age," told Ru. "Not even with my cousins. This young master was always dragged from one grandmaster to another to learn something new. You can say that I have more bonding with people who are two generations above me than my peers. That''s why, all my life, I could hardly even rte to people my age. I guess I got old before time."

    "Was it difficult growing up in such an environment?" asked Raelle.

    "No," answered Ru. "It wasn''t difficult."

    "Wasn''t?" repeated Raelle. "I feel like you''re very restricted."

    "No way. Who can restrict me? If I was restricted would I grow up like I did? It''s just that when you are at a high ce, you have a lot more responsibilities. And that''s why I was taught so much. I was told from a young age that neither my elder brother nor my younger brother will inherit the position of my father but me. I was chosen Patriarch of the next generation. So, I had to do more to be worthy of that position too."

    Raelle didn''t say anything about it when she heard that but just focused on what Ru was doing. She watched him roll his sleeves up to his forearm, tying an apron around his waist, then taking the kitchen knife and vegetables. Her eyes followed all the movements as Ru cut shredded the carrots, cabbage, zhini, and then onion. All of this took barely a few minutes.

    When Ru was preparing the batter, Raelle finally asked, "What are you making?"

    "Yachejeon(Vegetable pancake)," answered Ru without even looking up. "Wanna try some?" Before Raelle could refuse, Ru went on, "Don''t say no just because you had breakfast. Who stipted that you can''t eat after breakfast?"

    Raelle thought about it for a moment before saying, "But still, there is time for everything."

    Ru shook his head, "No. You think too much. If your body is hungry, that''s the time to eat. If your body is craving something, there is no need to be so harsh on yourself. Just have a few bites. If nothing else, you can give yourself a break. I could never do this. I don''tpromise on my happiness. And the food is happiness."

    "That''s what Hyson says too," said Raelle.

    "It''s because he knows that life doesn''t need big things to be happy. Small things matter a lot more. You suddenly crave the spicy boiled mutton and the next moment, someone brings it to you, won''t you feel happy? It''s nothing big but the happiness it brings in inexplicable."

    Raelle couldn''t help asking, "What do you value most in life?"

    "I value self-respect," said Ru. "I don''t like wronging myself. I was taught everything but I wasn''t taught how topromise on my happiness and self-respect. I canpromise on a lot of things but not on these two."

    Raelle nodded as she watched the pancake being cooked in a sizzling pan. After a while, she smelled the aroma and suddenly had an urge to really take a bite.

    After the pancake became golden, Ru took it out on the cutting board and cut it into bite-sized pieces before putting it into a serving te. After that, he washed the used utensils and mixed soy sauce with sesame.

    Putting a clean chopstick in front of Raelle, he said, "Bringing a change doesn''t mean you have to take a drastic step. It could start from here. Just try a bite. It''s okay. I promise it won''t hurt."

    Raelle actually picked up the chopsticks to try a bite.

    "It seemed pretty easy,"mented Raelle. "Why don''t you all just let me try it."

    "You use your brain on better things. Leave this aside. You won''t go hungry with your husband around," said Ru and took a seat on the high stool before eating the pancake he made just now. "I almost forgot that I have a gift for you."

    "Gift?" asked Raelle. "You already did so much for me. Is there a need to add another gift?"

    "That is one thing, this is another thing. We can''tpromise on either," said Ru. "Let me finish eating, I''ll give it to you."

    "I''m not in a hurry," said Raelle.

    "You are really not in a hurry?" asked Ru. "May I ask, why?"

    "Why? I should be in a hurry?"

    "Shouldn''t you go to see your husband? You already learned what you wanted to learn. Why are you still following me?"

    "Something is telling me that I won''t be seeing you so soon after today," replied Raelle.

    "Not bad," said Ru. "I am leaving today. That''s true. So, yeah. It''ll be difficult to meet again."

    "You won''te to my wedding?"

    "Are you inviting?"

    "Of course!"

    "Then I''ll try. But it''s hard to say if I''ll be able toe. I don''t usually stay in one ce for a long time."

    After eating, Ru went to wash his hands again and pulled out a wooden box, and gave it to her. Raelle took it but didn''t open it.

    "Open it," said Ru.

    "It''s not nice to open a gift in front of the person who gives it to you," replied Raelle.

    "You don''t have to be so particr about it," was Ru''s response. "If you don''t open it, how would I know if you like the gift or not?"

    "Gift is a gift."

    "Open!" was the only thing Ru said, giving Raelle no chance to refute again.

    Raelle opened the box and looked at the thing inside with a thoughtful look before she pulled it out and asked, "What''s this?"

    "Blood beeswax prayer beads," exined Ru. "There are a total of 108 beads on this string. Do you know what it represents?"

    Raelle shook her head.

    "I knew it,"mented Ru. "The 108 beads represent 108 industries, and 108 Buddhist deities. 108 paths of the Buddha, 108 types of meditations, and the destruction of 108 worries." He took a pause and added, "In ancient Indian astronomy, the distance between the Earth and the Sun is approximately 108 times the Sun''s diameter. Simrly, the average distance between the Earth and the Moon is approximately 108 times the Moon''s diameter. Moreover, the number 108 is considered sacred and auspicious. It is believed to represent the wholeness andpleteness of the universe, with the digit 1 symbolizing the divine or unity, the digit 0 representing emptiness or potential, and the digit 8 signifying infinity or eternity."

    Raelle still had a thoughtful expression as she said, "You do know that I''m not really a believer. You don''t look like one too. So, what''s with this gift?"

    "I could give anything else too but this is a form of a blessing. It''s consecrated by an eminent monk. The one you met at the templest time. I might not be a believer but I''m not a nonbeliever too. In fact, I''d rather believe in the unbelievable than anything else. You believe in what you see but some things are not seen. Just because you can''t see them doesn''t mean they don''t exist."

    "I don''t repeat myself but I''m gonna say it again, you have a bizarre way of speech."

    "I''m an entric person too," said Ru generously. "Some say I have a profound way of speech. Some say I have a bizarre way of speech. Some also think I''m just talking nonsense. I''m fine with anything. Because I know what I''m saying and what I think. I don''t say things I don''t mean."

    "Maybe that''s why I liked you instantly. You don''t hesitate to say anything like I don''t. It''s just that my words end up hurting people more often than not. But I don''t think you face that problem."

    Ru smiled at her, "What makes you think that? I am not that likable either. It''s just that I am more charming so people don''t dare talk nonsense in front of me and don''t mind my nonsense either."

    "You''re very narcissistic as Hyson said," said Raelle.

    "That''s also a talent. Not everyone has it," answered Ru. "Actually, my grandfather asked me to give you this gift. These beads were kept with our family by your grandmother."

    "Huh?"

    "Really. I don''t lie. This thing originally belongs to your family. It''s just I think your grandmother must have wanted you to have it."

 Chapter 1170: One Person

    Chapter 1170: One Person"This is really left by my grandma?" asked Raelle as she observed this string of beads more carefully than before. She picked them up from the box and marveled at how brightly it shone. It looked glossy on the outside and shiny on the inside. "I think I heard somewhere that ten-thousand-year-old beeswaxes are spiritual and can protect one''s safety. Is it true?"

    The texture of this beeswax was delicate and moist. It looked more lustrous the more she looked at it. She could smell the faint fragrance of honey which made her a bit dazed.

    "You must have heard it from your grandfather," mentioned Ru. "Because this saying is quite famous among the older generation. Whether it can protect you or not it not what you should be concerned about. Your concern should be that this is a form of blessing that your grandma left for you."

    "She might have intended to give it to my brother or sister. After all, I wasn''t there when she left it with your family."

    "No, but you''re about to be born," was what Ru said. "Beeswax is rare and blood beeswax is considered even rarer. She still found it for you. There is a reason why I said she might have intended to give this to you. Because it was my great grandmaster who picked the name Yenay for you."

    Raelle looked into Ru''s eyes when she heard that and suddenly said, "It seems there is a lot I don''t know."

    "You don''t have to know everything," was Ru''s answer. "Anyway, if you think this gift is useless to you, I can give you something else too."

    "There is no need for that," said Raelle. "Not only do I like this unique gift, but the fact that you have already given me a lot since we met is enough. It''s me who didn''t return the gesture."

    "As long as you like it,"mented Ru. "No need to think so much. You say that you don''tck anything and this young master doesn''tck anything even more. There is nothing that I haven''t seen in life. So, gifts are not for someone like me."

    Saying that he took out a chocte from his pocket and unwrapped it to take a bite. Raelle saw this all as she rubbed the string of prayer beads. She slowly wore it around her empty wrist and found it quite pleasing to the eye.

    "You really like choctes?"

    "There aren''t many things I don''t like either," answered Ru. He took out another chocte bar and showed it to Raelle. "See? The one I''m eating is dark chocte. And this one is white chocte. Both have different tastes and brings different pleasure. I love dark chocte but that doesn''t mean I don''t like white chocte. You don''t have to insist on liking one thing. Changing your taste is okay."

    Raelle nodded her head and said, "I should try different vors then."

    "You should. Don''t deprave yourself so much." Suddenly, his hand went behind Raelle''s ear, and with a click when he brought the hand in front of Raelle''s eyes, a gorgeous red rose appeared in his hand. Even Raelle''s eyes were momentarily stunned when she looked at this. "For you!"

    Raelle took the rose and couldn''t help asking, "How did you do that?"

    "Magic!" said Ru.

    "I don''t think so," replied Raelle.

    "It''s just small tricks," said Ru.

    "Why the red rose?"

    "I guess it suits you," answered Ru. "It symbolized the passion that you have in your heart. It''s definitely the right flower for you." Taking a pause, he whispered, "Also, this was the only flower my little uncle prepared for his girlfriend. So, I only found this in the penthouse."

    This time, Raelle ended up smiling. It was a very small smile and almost imperceptible but it was certainly a smile.

    ....

    Meanwhile, Mu Chenyan was feeling a little blocked and restless for some reason. Xia Zhao could understand her feelings and pulled her to his bedroom and made her sit before asking, "What''s wrong? What''s bothering you?"

    "I don''t know," answered Mu Chenyan. "I didn''t realize Justin''s identity would involve so many things. I''m not sure how to feel about this."

    "No matter what nothing can change the fact that he is your Xiang family''s child," mentioned Xia Zhao.

    "Who dares to say no?" she retorted. "I''d tear them apart who questioned his identity."

    "Then what are you worried about? Aren''t you very capable? What''s the problem? If you can''t handle something, I''m still here too."

    Mu Chenyan smiled involuntarily at his words. She hadplete trust in his words. She knew what he said was right. And he''d stick to those words too. It actually felt good to know that someone was standing behind her to protect her. She hadn''t had this feeling for years. More precisely since her godmother died.

    No, it''s not that Elder Xiang won''t protect her but it''s just that Elder Xiang had a different personality and temperament. He mostly didn''t speak out about his feelings. So, even if he always stood behind her, it was different.

    Mu Chenyan proactively took his hand into her own and told him, "I''m just very distressed. I didn''t know that such a young child had been through so much. Even before his birth he had been on a run and after his birth too, who knows what kind of things he faced. Even if he doesn''t remember all that but subconsciously, all of that would have left some mark on his little mind. I''m very worried. No wonder, Tang Hebe was looking for a doctor for him." She was really worried when she thought about what kind of affect all that would have had on Justin''s mind. "Now, I understand why he felt so close to Raelle. In the end, they were the same kind of people. Both had to face a lot from their birth."

    "You''re worried that Justin would be like Raelle? Withdrawn and emotionless?" asked Xia Zhao and seeing her not denying his words, he sighed. "You''re worrying for no reason. Justin is still different from Raelle. Haven''t you noticed itst night? He might be a shy kid who doesn''t like socializing but he loved Weimin. It''s like the call of blood is too intense. He is drawn towards Weimin every single time and he actually starts acting like a normal kid when Weimin is around. So, his condition isn''t as serious as you think. With proper love and care and attention, he''d be a lot more open. And even if he isn''t, do you think you won''t like him? You love Raelle, do you think you can resist Justin?"

    Everything he said was true and Mu Chenyan didn''t know what else to say. All her worries were for nothing. She was just depressing herself by overthinking so much. It was better to just let it be.

    "How did your nephew get such detailed information?" asked Mu Chenyan curiously. "I don''t think this information is that easy to find."

    "He had means, you don''t," answered Xia Zhao.

    "For instance?" asked Mu Chenyan. "I also have a lot of connections on the dark side."

    "Having connections is different from being a part of the dark side," said Xia Zhao. "Ru knows a lot about this dark side because he had been part of it for a long time too."

    "Part of the Mafia?" asked Mu Chenyan. "I didn''t think someone from your family would do something like that."

    "You should expect the unexpected from Young Master Ru. He does everything ording to his mood. He infilterated the underworld and became an overlord, just because he wanted to find someone. And not did he find out that organization, but also wiped it out. So, as I said, he has the means. He had been a core member of the underworld. It''s not a surprise that he knows a lot more than you and I."

    "Core member?" repeated Mu Chenyan and her eyes widened as she stood up. "That''s why he looks so familiar!" She ran out to find Ru who was about to leave and asked, "How are you rted to Alev Knight?"

    There was no change on Ru''s face when he heard that question but Xia Zhao''s brows moved a little in surprise.

    "Alev Knight?" repeated Ru with a lopsided grin that was directed at his little uncle. "Let''s say we are so close that we can be considered one person."

    Xia Zhao almost rolled his eyes when he heard that answer while Ru seemed very satisfied with the answer he gave. On the other hand, Raelle had a thoughtful look and Mu Chenyan was frowning.

    "Yanyan, are you talking about the Lord Alev Knight? The one rted to the Royal Family?" asked Raelle.

    Ru''s yfulness vanished as he asked, "How is he rted to the Royal Family?"

    "Don''t they say that he was about to marry the Princess before he disappeared?"

    "Marry her? I haven''t lost my mind yet!"

 Chapter 1171: Always Reasonable

    Chapter 1171: Always ReasonableThere was a look of annoyance on Ru''s face which he didn''t even try to hide at all. He didn''t expect after all these years, people still associated Alev Knight''s name with that Princess! It seemed he had to have a good conversation with a certain Prince. A conversation that included some serious beating!

    Raelle noticed his expression and asked, "Why do you say that?"

    "Because he is the Lord Alev Knight," answered Mu Chenyan certainly. If she had a little doubt before, she was certain when Ru said that he hadn''t lost his mind.

    Ru''s yful smile was back as she looked at Mu Chenyan, "Oh? Why would you say that, Ms. Mu?"

    "You just said, you both can be considered the same person. In other words, you are the same person," was Mu Chenyan''s response. "Also, I wouldn''t have been struggling so much if your eyes hadn''t been throwing me off. I kept doubting myself just because of these green eyes."

    "Yes. I heard about Lord Alev Knight''s iconic blue eyes," said Raelle.

    "You know there is a thing called colored lenses," was Ru''s answer.

    "So, these green ones are fake?" asked Raelle. "They don''t look fake."

    "This isn''t fake," said Xia Zhao. "Blue isn''t really his color."

    "It really isn''t," added Ru. He turned to Mu Chenyan, "You met me before?"

    "I won''t say we met. I just saw you at a ball from afar in dim lights. The thing that struck me was definitely your blue eyes at that time. Your status didn''t allow many people to get close to you. But... There was one person who kept running after you."

    Ru scrunched up his face, "Huh! That clingy princess. So annoying."

    "You''ve been an overlord in the underworld,"mented Mu Chenyan. "No wonder you found out everything so easily."

    "This young master really lived the days of an overlord," said Ru.

    "Bragart,"mented Xia Zhao.

    "I only brag about things I am capable of. I don''t talk unnecessarily." He turned to Mu Chenyan again, "Is your curiosity satisfied, Ms. Mu? After finally confirming my identity?"

    "Are you sure I confirmed your identity?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Why do I think it only became moreplicated? Are you really Young Master Ru or is that just a disguise too?"

    "Disguise," repeated Ru. "Whether it''s a disguise or not, does it matter? However, I must say that you really raised Yue Fai. You are certainly his favorite godmother. You both have the same focus."

    Mu Chenyan didn''t understand those words but Ru didn''t exin either.

    "So, what should I call you? Young Master Ru? Or Alev Knight?"

    "Alev Knight has disappeared, haven''t you heard that already? I abandoned that identity after it served its purpose."

    "I''m curious," started Raelle. "Why did you get the title of the Lord?"

    "For two reasons people called me that," said Ru. "One, I got the title from the Queen, herself. Second, being the overlord in the underworld, I have to have a title worthy of my status, no?" He looked at the time on the clock and said, "It''s gettingte."

    "Don''t forget your phone," reminded Xia Zhao.

    Ru stopped and turned to take the phone. "Well, thank you for your hospitality during this time, little uncle. I won''t forget it." The way he enunciated ''hospitality'', Xia Zhao knew he had no good intentions but he couldn''t say anything regarding that.

    "Take care of yourself," said Xia Zhao.

    "Wait!" Raelle stopped him once again. "Sorry for stopping you like this. It''s just that... I heard that your n has a legacy of tradition medicine. I was thinking if you could help my Opa."

    Ru wasn''t surprised by her request and patiently told her, "When your grandfather was injured, due to the limited conditions of the battlefield, the injury had someplications. And he took a long while toe and look for help too. By then, we really couldn''t help him stand back on his feet. We might be doctors, but we aren''t that miraculous too. However, my grandmaster did give him the medicine to help his legs from getting atrophied. Why else do you think my little unclees to see your grandfather so frequently? It''s his responsibility to deliver the medicine every once in a while."

    Mu Chenyan looked at Xia Zhao inquisitively and he nodded his head and added, "I do give the oral medicine pills and also the massage oil. I''ve been doing it for so long, I am still very surprised you didn''t even find out."

    "No wonder Elder Xiang was so secretive about where his medicine always came from,"mented Mu Chenyan. "And whenever I added some other nutritious medicine for him, he''d always take it first confirm with someone if he could take it or not. It seems he really trusts your family."

    Xia Zhao shrugged, he couldn''t do anything about this trust now, could he?

    Seeing Raelle''s eyes lowering, Ru added an exnation, "You don''t have to worry. Even if he can''t walk. Trust me, he isn''t in pain."

    "He''s been getting illtely," said Raelle. "It''s worrying."

    "He is aging," said Ru.

    "I think Zhao''s grandfather might be older than our Elder Xiang," said Mu Chenyan.

    "It''s not just about aging," said Ru. "Elder Xiang has been dragging his life all this time with a purpose. And the purpose was you, Raelle. And now, he can see you happy. He can see all his grandchildren, he feels like he haspleted his mission that his wife gave him. You pay a little more attention, he won''t leave you so soon." Ru smiled at her, "As long as you''re happy, I think he''ll be fine."

    He didn''t say anything extra and turned to walk towards the balcony but stopped himself. And subtly changed his direction and went to the door. But as soon as he opened the door, a few excited faces came in front of him, seemingly waiting for him. And instantly startedining.

    "Young Master Ru, you can''t do that to us."

    "How can you disappear like that?"

    "I almost got a heard attack! And I''m only sixteen! Do you care about your young cousin?"

    "If we lost you, we all would have to kneel in the ancestral hall!"

    Ru wasn''t fazed by this seige and said calmly, "Who told you all to be so carefree? Seeing the food, you forget me? Do you this kind of careless behavior is allowed when you''re keeping an eye on this young master? One moment of carelessness can cause irreversible damage. Haven''t you learned anything in ss? It seems you all need to go back to training."

    All of these young people started wailing when they heard those words and even when the door closed, Ru''s expression didn''t change.

    Mu Chenyan turned her eyes to Xia Zhao again after seeing this scene and asked, "I thought he was just ying tricks on those people."

    "Actually, he only looks irresponsible," said Xia Zhao. "He isn''t that irresponsible in life. He always has a purpose and a reason behind everything he does. He never does thoughtless things in life. He finds them too time-wasting. Even if you don''t understand his actions, don''t question him. Because he''d still have a genuine and reasonable reason behind his words and actions. This... I learned after a long experience."

    "If I ask you to define him, how would you do it?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "If I say it in one word, it''d be ruthless," answered Xia Zhao which surprises both Mu Chenyan and Raelle.

    "He looks kind to me,"mented Raelle.

    Xia Zhao shook his head, "There is no doubt that he is kind when he needs to be but even more than that, he is ruthless. Because he is the most ruthless to himself. He always cut his losses in time no matter how painful it is. You wouldn''t wanna know how ruthless he can get. Do you think being the overlord of the underworld across that whole continent is a walk in the park? If he wasn''t ruthless enough, he wouldn''t have gotten to that position and still thrived."

    "You have a lot of opinions," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Nah. He is still my favorite person in the whole n. No matter how infuriating he is," said Xia Zhao with a smile.

    "Tell me, is his current identity also a disguise?" asked Mu Chenyan very curiously. Since she was somewhat familiar with the matters rted to Lord Alev Knight, and knowing that the same person was Young Master Ru, she was very interested in this discussion.

    "It''s a disguise that has be a reality," said Xia Zhao strangely. "You just know that no matter how many disguises he has, the one he alwayses back to will always be Young Master Ru."

    Mu Chenyan frowned a little before she looked at Raelle and said, "Elle, what are you doing here? Aren''t you leaving?"

    "Are you throwing me out?" asked Raelle.

    "No," replied Mu Chenyan.

    "I''m leaving," said Raelle and didn''t really want to stay anyway. "Enjoy!"

    Mu Chenyan looked Xia Zhao with a cheeky smile as she dragged him with a gossipy look in her eyes, "Tell me more."

    Xia Zhao couldn''t resist her look but still said, "Didn''t I tell you to not be so curious about him? It''s dangerous to know too much."

 Chapter 1172: A Family Of Three

    Chapter 1172: A Family Of ThreeRaelle stepped out of the penthouse with a lot of information and a lot of thoughts running through her mind too. She took the elevator back to the floor where she had stayedst night because she had to look for her husband before sorting out her thoughts. However, thinking of something, she changed the floor number.

    With a ''Ding'' when the elevator stopped and the door opened, Raelle looked up to find a man holding a bouquet of flowers in front of a door. Usually, she won''t be curious about such things, but considering she knew him, she stopped.

    The door opened and a gorgeousdy appeared while rubbing her eyes.

    "I say, it''s too early to go anywhere," Raelle heard the woman say.

    The man only smiled and held up the bouquet saying, "Surprise!"

    The woman was Xiu whom Raelle just metst night raised her brows at her husband and asked, "Is this for me?"

    "Who else?" asked Darren in response. "Do I give flowers to anyone else?"

    "How is that possible? ording to you, all flowers in the world only match your wife."

    Raelle looked beside her and found their only son Rowan standing there and looking at his parents with a critical look. He seemed very embarrassed for some reason.

    "Oh, we have eustoma today," said Xiu as she took the bouquet from his hands and looked at the colorful eustoma, alsomonly known as lisianthus flowers. "Any special reason?"

    "Of course, to represent the life-long bond between us," responded Darren.

    She caressed the flowers and smiled beautifully at her, "It''s not that bad to wake up early on weekends."

    "Says the woman who doesn''t even wanna get up early on weekdays," said Rowan in a low voice.

    "What are you muttering over there?" came Xiu''s voice. "Are you badmouthing your mother?"

    "How is that possible? Mommy, I love you!" said Rowan as he ran to hug but the hug wasn''t intended for her but for his father instead.

    Xiu held his shirt''s cor from behind and pulled him away saying, "Why are you so clingy?"

    "I think it''s inherited from you, my sweet Mommy!" said Rowan, not even a bit fazed or surprised by her actions as he fixed his shirt. Who asked his mother to be so extra? How could she let him hug her husband without a reason or rhyme?

    "Are you actuallyining? You have problems with your gene inheritance now?"

    "How dare I?"

    Darren looked at the two of them and sighed softly before saying, "Both of you... We are not alone here." He had already seen Raelle there so he wanted this mother and son to stop their usual way of showing their love to each other.

    "I did nothing," responded Xiu and Rowan at the same time. Then they red at each other and added, "He/She started it!"

    "I can see who started it. But can we stop now?" asked Darren.

    "Then tell him to stop trying to snatch you from me," said Xiu.

    "Mommy, that''s the father you looked for me!" reminded Rowan.

    "Actually, son... I looked for your father. I agree. I got him after a long struggle that you don''t understand but..." Before she could continue to say something detrimental to his son''s young mind, Darren put his hand on his wife''s mouth to stop her.

    "We are going out, do I need to remind you, Sweets?"

    Xiu rubbed her nose and shook her head, "I remember. It''s him. He forgets that I have you on the weekends. What are you even doing here? Don''t tell me you''reing with us. You came with Aunt Fei. You''re going back with her too. There are rules for everything."

    "Mommy, did you pick me up from the trash?"

    "If I did, would you be my favorite little tiger? It''s just that I still love your father more. I told you that you shouldn''t be even thinking about this. You wouldn''t be here if I didn''t love your father or he didn''t love me."

    "You always find a right reason for all the wrong things," said Rowan. "But I still love you. Just because you''re good everywhere else except for when ites to sharing your husband with your son."

    "I don''t share!"

    "Rowan, where is your grandaunt?" asked Darren. "Or you want toe with us?"

    "No thanks. I just came to see you two and find out which flowers you got for her this weekend," answered Rowan casually. "Besides, my grandaunt Feifei is talking to someone. So, I didn''t disturb her. Don''t worry. I''m a big boy. I won''t get lost. You enjoy your weekend getaway. Just don''t forget you have a son waiting at home."

    Darren smiled at him helplessly and rubbed his head lovingly, "We can never forget you."

    Even Xiu leaned down and kissed his forehead saying, "I might find you very annoying sometimes. But you''re still the best son out there. Also my favorite."

    "You only have one son," reminded Rowan.

    "Still. The point is that I love you."

    "Then you''ll make me red bean jelly when youe back on Sunday night?" asked Rowan trying to bargain since he knew it''ll work at this moment.

    "Okay."

    "I also want, spicy fish."

    "Got it."

    "How about some Sichuan style..."

    "That''s enough," came Darren''s voice to stop his son from stretching his luck so much.

    "Fine," agreed Rowan and waved at them. "Have a good day! Both of you!"

    Xiu was about to leave but still turned back to remind her son, "You better not go out with your sisters to find something to eat you shouldn''t."

    "Have some faith in me, my sweet Mommy!"

    "Don''t get into trouble."

    "I''m so nice. How can I get into trouble?"

    "Oh? Why was I called to your school before the summer vacation then?"

    "I wasn''t at fault."

    "You never are!"

    "Exactly. Even my mommy is never at fault, how can I be? After all, I''m still your son."

    "Don''t be cheeky with me. Also, don''t forget to..."

    "Drink milk on time at night. Don''t sleepte. Don''t eat unhealthy. Don''t tease your cousins. Mommy, stop nagging. I remember it all."

    "This old mother is not even respected now," muttered Xiu as she left with Darren.

 Chapter 1173: [Bonus chapter] Language Of Love

    Chapter 1173: [Bonus chapter] Language Of LoveRaelle actually didn''t leave all this time. Not that she wanted to watch this family interaction. It''s just that she was waiting for Tang Hebe to open the door but it seemed Tang Hebe was either asleep or already left. That''s why Raelle was able to see this family''s interesting bonding.

    The son was very tired of seeing the romance of his parents and seemed to love teasing his mother who was easily ticked off. Raelle had seen plenty of whipped male partners around her. Her own husband was one. But it was sort of her first time to see a woman who was not whipped but also, super possessive about her husband.

    Raelle knew that she wasn''t that good at sharing too. She also had problems with people touching her husband but she was wondering if she''d not be able to share her husband with her own kid one day too.

    That was a new thought for her. She didn''t think about this before.

    Rowan noticed Raelle too and smiled at her cutely as he said, "Sorry for letting you see that."

    "I don''t mind," said Raelle.

    "Are you waiting for someone?" asked Rowan.

    "An acquaintance was staying here but she isn''t opening the door." Raelle pointed towards the door she was standing in front of which happened to be opposite the room of Rowan''s parents.

    "Oh. She had a son about four-five years old, very adorable?"

    "Yes," she replied. "Did you see them?"

    "They left very early in the morning. When I got up to do morning exercises. I did see them leaving."

    "Oh," responded Raelle in understanding. It seems she was right. So, even if she had listened to Xiang Weimin ande over to see Tang Hebe, they wouldn''t have been able to meet since she left so early. But Raelle was wondering why?

    Rowan looked at the red rose in her hand and asked, "You also got a flower from your husband?"

    "No," replied Raelle as she looked at the rose she had brought down with her. "I got it from someone else. Why are you asking?"

    "No reason. Since the time I can remember, I have seen my Baba bringing a flower bouquet every Saturday morning for my Mommy. It''s always a different one. So, flowers hold a very special meaning in our family. I was wondering if you have such a tradition too."

    "Not really," answered Raelle patiently. She actually realized that since she met Justin, she had be a lot more patient with kids and could actuallymunicate with them too. Which wasn''t possible before because she thought she couldn''t hold a meaningful conversation with children. Now, it seemed she was very wrong. She thought about how Ru earlier said she had rigid thinking. "So, your dad brings flowers every Saturday? Without missing?"

    "He never misses," answered Rowan. "My aunt told me that flowers are my parents'' lovenguage. They love tomunicate with flowers and not only that, my Baba even confessed his love by sending different flowers for a week to my Mommy. Each with a different meaning. As if writing a love letter with flowers."

    "That''s quite troublesome,"mented Raelle.

    Rowanughed at that, "I also thought so. I''m d you agree with me. But everyone else says that since I''m young, I don''t understand it yet. When you love someone, there is no such thing as troublesome. You even look for troublesome things on your own initiative if it means you can make your loved one happy. It''s almost like how I learned to make cupcakes because my Mommy loves them. I didn''t find it troublesome when I made the cupcakes for her. Usually, if I have to do the same for myself, I''d rather not eat it."

    Raelle quite agreed with his words. It was the same as how she had been finding things less and less troublesome when the things involved Shui Xian. It seems the kid understands better than her. But she didn''t mind it at all. At least, she understood it.

    Learning from a kid was absolutely okay to her. Just because she was called a genius didn''t mean she knew everything. She knew that too.

    Suddenly, she focused on a very important point, "You can also cook?"

    This morning, people gave her the feeling that she was the most useless one around. This 8-9-year-old kid could cook!

    "I can make some simple home-cooked dishes," answered Rowan. "My Baba said, men should know how to survive. My Mommy isn''t a maid. Although I''m not as good as my parents, I can still make simple dishes. But I''m an expert at baking. My Mommy is the best cook but she is even better at baking. So, she taught me all the tricks. They don''t make me learnplicated dishes. For now, they make me shred potatoes every time I enter the kitchen. To improve my knife skills. It''s boring." He took a moment as he observed Raelle''s expression and said, "Why do you look like the world is ending?"

    "I can''t even boil an egg," said Raelle. "My family is afraid that I might get hurt. But I suddenly feel like they are just scared that I might blow up their kitchen. How can I feel good knowing this?"

    Rowanughed unceremonially and said, "I''m sorry. But I think you''re thinking too much. Maybe they really don''t want you to get hurt. My grandmas were very mad at my Baba for making me learn how to cook but he doesn''t easily listen to people. Unless it''s my Mommy talking."

    "Your parents have a beautiful rtionship. And they gave birth to a beautiful and talented son too."

    Rowan smiled sheepishly, "I also think I''m good."

    "Not gonna act humble?"

    "Nah. My Mommy says to ept thepliments shamelessly as long as you have the self-confidence to carry the weight of thepliment."

    "I must say your parents did raise a good son,"mented Raelle sincerely.

    "Your best friend said it''s difficult to hear a few words ofpliment from you. So, should I feel good that I gotplimented by Miss Raelle Xiang?"

    "You shouldn''t listen to that fool so much."

    "I think Fai Ge is good too."

    "I have yet to meet someone who doesn''t say he is good," said Raelle.

    "Good people are good no matter what others say," said Rowan. "You are too."

    "They say kids don''t lie. So, I''ll believe you."

 Chapter 1174: Tiring Journey

    Chapter 1174: Tiring JourneyGood? Raelle actually had a lot to say about this word but at the same time, she didn''t want to. Who could tell if she was really a good person? Even if she at some point thought that she was a good person, she had started to doubt it too.

    "Are you leaving today?" asked Raelle as she walked towards the elevator with him.

    "Yes," answered Rowan. "I''ll stay home for a week and then join the production."

    "You''re so young. What made you want to be an actor?" asked Raelle. She is rarely so curious about people''s life choices. But since she was someone who didn''t many dreams in life, she was genuinely interested in Rowan''s answer right now. He was not even half her age but already knew what he wanted to do and be.

    "This... I can''t answer it clearly but it has a lot to do with my mother," he told her. "She used to tell me so fascinating and intriguing stories that I wanted to be a part of those stories. I just wanted to experience what it felt like to convey the message and emotions of those stories through my acting."

    "So, you wanna be a big star?"

    "That''s not it. I don''t dream to be a star. I just want to be an actor. An actor worth remembering. Someone who can live forever."

    "How can anyone live forever?"

    "You can live forever if you''re living in someone''s memories," told Rowan. "Why I say it because... My Baba''s favorite actor is no more. But even if she is no more, she lives in a lot of people''s memories. Justst year, her fans organized arge-scale donation in her name to build schools. I just feel like she must have been a great person to be able to make people remember her even now after over a decade of her death. She is no more but she is still here. Even I, who didn''t know her actually strengthed my idea of bing an actor after watching her movies."

    "It''s good that you have a clear goal in life," said Raelle.

    "Sigh," he sighed so tiredly as he went on, "I have a clear goal. But my father also has a clear goal for me. He wants me to grow up fast so that I can inherit his business early and he can run away with his wife without any worry."

    "That just proves that they have a good rtionship," said Raelle as she entered the elevator.

    "I understand that," said Rowan. "I understand their rtionship more than anyone since I live under the same roof with them." He pressed the button on the floor he was going to after Raelle was done and added, "Actually, my mommy didn''t want me to be an actor. I still know she isn''t very happy but she doesn''t stop me either. From the moment I can remember, she never imposed her ideas on me. And it''s not that she doesn''t like actors. In fact, I can see that she loves acting. After all, she is my acting teacher. She taught me everything I know about acting. I still remember that when I got my first role, she only told me one thing, ''Rowan, just remember that you have to protect yourself in this morous world. It''s dazzling and blinding but don''t lose your sight. Remember your goal. And don''t let the bad words get to you. If you can''t do that, walk away.''"

    "I guess she is really worried about you,"mented Raelle. "But she isn''t wrong either. I might not know much about the entertainment industry but I do have a best friend who has been involved in this industry for a long time now. Even if he had been in music industry, you both are still considered a part of the same industry. And I must say, I have gotten to know a rotten side of society because of him too. I never knew people could be so shameless and brazen just because they hid behind the screens of theirputers. You''re a young boy and you''re already a public figure. Don''t say it doesn''t affect your normal life at all."

    "Well, it does," agreed Rowan. "I don''t like the way peoplee to see me at school from other sses. Like I''m some kind of a monkey in a zoo."

    "Don''t you feel proud that they are speciallying to see you?"

    "Not at all," he replied. "I feel like it''s a lot of trouble. And I even have to smile in return politely."

    "How tiring," said Raelle. "I suddenly feel bad for you. So young and have so much to deal with."

    Rowan shrugged, "But who can Iin to? I chose this path myself. I can only walk."

    "I think you''re only walking for now because you feel happy and you''re enjoying this path you chose for yourself so all the troubles seem nothing. One day when it gets to the point when you feel really annoyed by these troubles, I think you''ll want to walk away."

    When the elevator stopped for Raelle and she got out, she wanted to wave him goodbye but he looked at her with a serious expression before saying, "You''re right. I''ll indeed walk away if one day I don''t feel happy. That''s what my parents told me. They said if you ever feel unhappy on any path in life, just change the path and they will be there for me. So what does it matter if I have to take a detour? Who said you can''t be happy after a tiring journey?"

    "Can you?" she asked.

    "Yes. You must have taken such a journey in your life at least for once," said Rowan and smiled at her. "Let''s meet again, Ms. Raelle. I quite like you."

    "See you again," said Raelle and watched the door closing. She walked towards the door of the presidential suite with Rowan''s words ringing in her mind.

    Had she taken such a tiring journey which made her happy?

    When she stood in front of the presidential suite, only then did she nodded in agreement. Yes, she had. She took an impromptu trip to see Shui Xian when he was on a business trip. And even if the journey was long and tiring and she had to walk for so long, nothing mattered once she got to see him at the end of the road.

    So, as long as the destination is worth it, even a tiring journey would really bring happiness.

 Chapter 1175: [Bonus chapter] Befriend

    Chapter 1175: [Bonus chapter] BefriendRaelle opened the door and walked inside. She found Shui Xian sitting on the sofa staring at the coffee table in a daze. He didn''t even react when he heard the door opening or when she walked to his side.

    Raelle watched him in silence for a moment and then observed the surroundings. He had packed the luggage by now. He didn''t look unhappy but he still felt lost.

    She walked up to him and stood in front of him. As his view was suddenly interrupted, Shui Xian jolted a bit and looked up at Raelle who was also looking at him. He smiled at her and then hugged her waist and put his face against her stomach and rubbed as he closed his eyes.

    Raelle put her hand on his head andbed his silky ck hair, enjoying the feeling of his hair rubbing against her fingers. She didn''t immediately ask him what was up and neither did he speak.

    After he was done hugging her, he pulled her to sit on hisp and put his chin on her shoulder as he asked, "You took so long toe back. Did you forget your newly engaged fianc¨¦?"

    "How can anyone forget such a handsome fianc¨¦?" she asked in return. "Did I make you wait for too long? I''m sorry for that."

    Shui Xian shook his head, "It''s alright. I can wait. I can wait for no matter how long you want me to."

    "So understanding and patient?"

    "I have always been so understanding and patient," he replied. "Don''t you already know that?"

    Raelle nodded and then put her hand against his face as she asked, "Did something happen?"

    "What can possibly happen in such a short time?"

    "Really? You just said it was a long time," Raelle pointed out. Shui Xian pursed his lips and didn''t want toment on that. "Besides, I can tell you that a lot happened to me during this ''short time''."

    "What happened?" he asked in concern.

    "Information overload and a lot of self-reflection," she answered truthfully. She had nothing to hide from him at all. She never thought of hiding at all. So, she told him everything from the start. What she learned from Ru to what she spoke with Rowan. "Do you think I have a lot of problems?"

    "Who doesn''t have problems?" asked Shui Xian. "If we think like this, I have a lot more problems than you. Why do you still like me? No, why did you fall in love with me?"

    "You have a problem that I love you?" she asked. "But no matter what your problem is, I still love you. Deal with it."

    Shui Xianughed at her response and said, "Why would I have a problem? That''s such a silly response from my genius wife."

    "I just learned that it''s okay for me to be a bit silly in front of you. You won''t mind."

    "Oh? Why won''t I mind?" he asked in amusement.

    "Because you love me. So you gotta love all of me."

    Shui Xianughed even louder and bit her cheek saying, "It feels good to see that you know how much I love you. Yes, you should have this confidence in my love for you. If you don''t have this confidence, how will I have confidence in myself?" He took a moment and added, "Also, you don''t think about Ru''s words. Let him be. You don''t have rigid thinking. Even if it is, we are all okay with it."

    Raelle looked at him seriously, "That''s the thing he said, no? You all give in to me."

    "Because we think there is nothing wrong and no harm in giving in," responded Shui Xian. "Also, Ru has a habit of talking strangely. You should ignore him altogether."

    "Do you know him?" asked Raelle. "Why do I think you''re familiar with him?"

    Shui Xian was silent for a while before saying, "I do know him. But my understanding of him is still very shallow. So, let''s not talk about him. Let''s talk about Rowan. I heard that kid is very close to Yue Fai and listening to you, I must also say he is very good. Maybe I should have more interactions with his parents, so it''d be easier to ask for some parenting advice in the future."

    "You''re thinking so far already?"

    "n for the future, be prepared for the future," he responded righteously.

    "Well, I agree. But how are you gonna interact with them? We don''t have any ovepping industries, do we?"

    "How can that be?" Shui Xian didn''t even need to think about this. "I acquired a musicpany and in the future, we have to coborate with other entertainmentpanies. Isn''t RX Studios a good choice? Just the fact that Regan Darren Salvay built apany for his wife, Bai Xiu is enough for me to want to befriend them. After all, we have something inmon, we both love our wives."

    Raelle gave him a look, "But they are still different from us."

    "How so?"

    "Because Mrs. Salvay is not just in love with her husband. She is crazy about him."

    "Love''s other name is craziness. So, it''s alright," said Shui Xian casually.

    "Rowan said tiring and long journeys can bring you happiness. Do you agree?"

    "Agree!"

    "Have had that journey?"

    "Yes!"

    "When?" she asked.

    "It took me twenty seven years to find you. After that long, tiring, and ardous journey filled with heartbreaks and pain and loss, when I finally have you in my arms, I feel like this journey was worth it all."

    "That''s not the journey we are talking about."

    "I think it''s all the same, baby!" said Shui Xian. He refused to ept that he was wrong. And technically, he wasn''t wrong at all. They both were just looking at the same question differently. She was talking about a physical journey and he was talking about the journey of life. "Don''t be stuck on the same point."

    "So, you do agree that I''m very rigid?"

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and refused to answer that question, no matter what!

 Chapter 1176: Pass On The Genes

    Chapter 1176: Pass On The Genes"I did not say that," Shui Xian made his stance clear at this point without any hesitation.

    "But you implied it," said Raelle.

    "Did I? Why don''t I know?" Shui Xian suddenly feigned amnesia just to get out of this situation. Seeing how her eyes were still glued to his face, he finally gave in, "I really didn''t mean it. It wasn''t intentional either."

    "I know," said Raelle. "Why are you panicking so much? Do you think I''ll eat you up?"

    "I''m more than happy to let you take a bite."

    Raelle saw his expression and understood all his dirty thoughts, "Let me take a bite? Are you sure about that?"

    "Very."

    Raelle pinched his face and said, "Well, I''ve had my fill."

    "What?! Wife, are you tired of me already?"

    Raelle patted his cheek, "Stop talking nonsense. And why did you say it took twenty-seven years to find me? Aren''t you twenty-nine? What about the other two years?"

    "A baby has no memories. Memories usually begin from the age of three or four. So, I just cut off the first two years of my life journey. After all, I have no impression of those two years."

    "And you have the impression from when you were three?"

    "Yes."

    "Then tell me about it too."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and thought about it for a while before saying, "I remember my mom put me on the bed and went to change clothes. Being the restless one, I rolled down the bed and got a head injury."

    "What a memory!"mented Raelle. "So, when people say that head injuries can affect a kid''s intelligence, they ain''t lying, eh?"

    Shui Xian nodded along with her but as soon as her words sank in, his expression changed, "Baby, are you really insulting me right now?"

    "How is that possible?" she asked in return.

    Shui Xian opened his mouth but didn''t say anything. He actually wasn''t able to say anything after seeing the twinkle in her eyes. What a rare sight. He could tell that there were very subtle changes in Raelle since thest ident but at this moment, that fact was even more clear to him.

    He didn''t know why but he felt like she seemed a lot livelier right now.

    He wondered if it was his illusion or real.

    "Actually, I think we don''t have to get any parenting advice," he suddenlymented.

    "Why?" asked Raelle as she wondered why he was suddenly bringing this topic up again.

    "Why else? I think I don''t wanna share my wife with anyone. Also, think about it. If we had a daughter, you''ll have to share your favorite husband with your daughter."

    "So?"

    "Haven''t you heard? A daughter is a father''s lover from the past life."

    "There is no scientific basis for that."

    "But fathers are daughter-ves. Haven''t you seen Soren? Even if he has Sammy, if Xena is around then he has no way to get his way. Soren bes very different when things involve his daughter."

    Shui Xian saw her thinking seriously about this matter and sighed in his head. He actually would love to have a child that belonged to the two of them since he always loved kids. But after thest incident, he was shaken. He felt like she was more important than the child. If he had to put her life at stake to get a child, he''d rather not do so.

    It''s not like people can''t live without a child.

    "Also, a child will bring so much trouble," he added slowly to lead her thoughts astray. "Think about it. A child has no fixed time of eating and sleeping. And you have to feed him whenever he is hungry. It''ll mess up your perfect schedule. So much trouble. And in confinement, you can''t even step down the bed for a whole month. A lot of activities will be restricted. You won''t even be able to bath for so long."

    His hypnotic voice was working the hypnotic very well right now but Raelle didn''t fall deep into it and woke up in time to observe his face. Seeing the look in his eyes, how could she not tell what he was doing right now?

    This man...

    She held his face in her hands and looked into his eyes, "Stop it! It''s troublesome, I agree. But if I can take the trouble to fall in love with you, I can take on more trouble. You''re underestimating my potential here. You shouldn''t be doing that."

    "I..."

    "No," she cut him off. "I know what you''re worried about but still, no. I want a child. I want it. I might not have had this desire before but now, I have it. I want a kid. I want it!" Shui Xian was helpless before her stubbornness. "Also, how can I not pass on my phenomenal genes? Wouldn''t I be depriving this world from a genius who inherited genes from my extraordinary self? How unfair to the world?"

    Shui Xian''s lips stretched into a smile that he couldn''t hold back.

    "You think about it. I owe it to the world to pass on my intelligence to the next generation. And you owe this world this beautiful smile of yours. Don''t you dare say we are not having a child."

    Shui Xian finallyughed at her and shook his head before his hold around her waist tightened, "You''re right. It''s a big responsibility on us to pass on your intelligence. What if there is no sane person in the world of emotional fools like me? Someone has to take the responsibility."

    "It''s okay to be emotional fools. If a sane person like me can fall in love with an emotional fool, it means emotional fools have their own unique charm."

    Shui Xianughed louder and she said, "See? This is the smile that came like a storm and swept away my sanity. How can I miss the chance to pass on this smile?"

    Shui Xian rubbed her nose with the tip of his nose lovingly.

 Chapter 1177: [Bonus chapter] Sharing

    Chapter 1177: [Bonus chapter] Sharing"Then you promise that even if there is another person with the same smile as mine, I''d still be the top priority," said Shui Xian very unreasonably.

    "Huh? Even if the other person is our own child?" she asked.

    "Yes!"

    "This..." She didn''t answer immediately and seeing her hesitating, Shui Xian narrowed his eyes at her.

    "Are you really hesitating right now?"

    "You can''tpete with a kid."

    "I can," said Shui Xian. "And I''m telling you. I''m just saying it. In the end, it''s you who is gonna have more problems with sharing your husband with a kid. You don''t even let people touch me. And when I go around holding our baby, would you be okay?"

    "Do you have to hold him?"

    "Or else? He might get your intelligence, but it''s impossible for him to start walking from the moment he is born."

    "How long will it take then?" she asked seriously.

    "Well, he''d be able to walk in a year or half but parents still have to hold their kids until they are about six or even seven. It''s very normal."

    "That''s a long time," said Raelle seriously. "But it''s okay. Don''t try to sway me. I can do it."

    "Okay, we''ll see about that," he said meaningfully. "By the way, are you spending too much time with Fai? Where did you learn to act like this?"

    "I think I''m spending more time with you, husband," she said.

    "That''s true," he agreed. "Does that mean, I''m a better teacher than Fai? Hahaha!"

    Raelle gave him a look, "Are you seriouslypeting with him again?"

    "Who ispeting? I am not," he refused to ept that he was doing it just now.

    "Are you feeling better now?" asked Raelle. "Did you read Mom''s letter? Was that why you''re so lost? What did she say?"

    Shui Xian smiled slightly at her, "She said a lot and made me recall a lot of things from the past. Most of all, she made me realize how desperate she was to save me from a heart break. Well, she didn''t get that wish."

    "Not all wishese true," said Raelle. "I think she also understood that."

    "I know," he nodded in agreement. "Actually, I''m still thinking about how she nned so far ahead. Even if someone told her that she was gonna die, how could she believe in it to the point that she nned everything for the future? Even if there was no possibility of that future toe. Just think about it. Would you have thought ten years ago that one day, you''d marry me or fall in love with me?"

    "No," answered Raelle truthfully.

    "Neither did I. At that time, I didn''t even think that I''d fail one day. But it''s like she knew it all and she was prepared for it all too. Even if there was a minute possibility that one day, I''ll marry you, she was prepared for it. It just shows how much she wanted us to be together. I keep thinking about repeatedly."

    "Maybe this minute possibility was enough to make her happy at that time," said Raelle. "Even if this possibility didn''te true, when she had that daydream, at least she was happy with it. Some people can be very content in life with a mere daydream."

    Shui Xian smiled slightly at that, "Actually, she didn''t say much but through those short words, I seemed to have felt her pain. And how disappointed she must have been when her heart broke. And she have to lose everything. I knew nothing about it at all."

    "She didn''t tell you because she wanted to keep this family feud away from you. If she really wanted to drag this hatred, she would have stopped you from interacting with Tang Hebe when you both were just kids. But she wasn''t so narrow-minded and she didn''t want to control you either."

    "But I told her that she did want to control me."

    "People are prone to make such rude remarks when they are in their teens. Teenagers just think they know everything and they want others to stop treating them like kids. Because they start thinking they know better than the adults now. But it''s not true. You also made such remarks. Who hasn''t done it in their life?"

    "Have you?" asked Shui Xian.

    Raelle thought about it seriously before nodding her head, "I told Yanyan to stop following me around. I''m no longer a kid. I can take on the responsibilities of the business. She just can take care of everything else. Those words must have hurt her. I understand that now because I realize what those words did to her considering her whole world revolved around me. Today, I saw her eyes following someone else other than me and the feeling was quite new for me to take in for a while. But it made me also realize how much she made me get used to things."

    Shui Xian sighed, "And I also learned about a whole different side of my mother today. The side I never knew of."

    "Huh?"

    Shui Xian took out the letter and passed it to her. She read it attentively before realizing why he said that and then looked at him.

    "She feels like an unfamiliar person?"

    "Yeah."

    "You never expected that she could be evil?"

    "I never did."

    "Even when she repeatedly tried to separate you from Tang Hebe?"

    "I never thought she was evil even then. I thought she was being unreasonable and controlling but she never did anything evil. It''s not like she went to hurt Tang Hebe or made a vicious scheme. She always just tried to reason with me at most. So, I knew nothing about this side of hers."

    "But it isn''t that surprising to me," said Raelle. "Love is said to be the most powerful emotion and hatred is derived from it. Can you imagine how powerful hate can be then? When a person is in love, he is capable of anything but when the same person hates, he is capable of even worse. She was just a normal person. She wanted to destroy everything since those people destroyed her family too. It''s a very simple human psychology."

    Shui Xian sighed at that, "My wife can really take it all in so easily. Only I waste time overthinking this."

    Raelle rubbed his head, "It''s okay. I''m here for you."

 Chapter 1178: The Taste Of Home

    Chapter 1178: The Taste Of Home"Wake up, people!"

    Hyson pped his hand as soon as he entered the room. The two people inside the room gave him a look and said, "Fai, we are already awake."

    "Oh," responded Hyson and looked at his Lin Zhen Ge who was drinking coffee, and Fang Yiwen who was ying on his phone. "Did you guys have breakfast?"

    "Yup," answered Fang Yiwen. "I have had my breakfast. Zhen Ge is only making do with his coffee for some reason."

    "Zhen Ge," Hyson looked at the leader of his group.

    Lin Zhen looked up at Hyson and smiled at him, "I''m not hungry."

    "How is that relevant here?" asked Hyson while Fang Yiwen pursed his lips to hide his smile.

    "Isn''t it relevant?" asked Lin Zhen.

    "Not at all. It''s breakfast. Even if you are not hungry, you have to eat."

    "I don''t wanna talk to you about it," said Lin Zhen. He knew he wouldn''t be able to outdo the chatterbox named Hyson so he stopped himself in time. He really couldn''t take it.

    "So, how wasst night for you two singles? Sharing a room? Didn''t you both have a separate room? Why did you insist on living together?"

    "As you just said," started Fang Yiwen. "Single dogs like us also need somepany."

    "You didn''t see Shuyi Ge sincest night?" asked Hyson.

    "Nope," answered Lin Zhen. "Who knows where he is? But I did send everyone a message. Both of them should be here soon. I do have something important to discuss with you. Besides, it''s been a while for all of us to gather. So, taking this chance I decided to treat you all to lunch."

    "Wow! Zhen Ge is mighty! Zhen Ge is the best! Zhen Ge is..."

    "Yiwen, you keep ying your game. I don''t like your cheering."

    Fang Yiwen shrugged his shoulders, "Alright. I was just trying to lift up your mood."

    "I told you, nothing is wrong with my mood. You insisted on hugging me like a kost night," reminded Lin Zhen.

    "Ge, I told you. I get scared at night," said Fang Yiwen righteously.

    "How old are you? You came out of your hometown to this big city when you were barely a teenager. You weren''t even familiar with anything or anyone in this city and even your ent wasn''t proper and you had difficulties inmunicating with people. I didn''t see you getting scared back then."

    Fang Yiwen licked his canines habitually before saying, "I did get scared. It''s an unfamiliar ce. And an unfamiliar bed. You can''t me me for being a little scared."

    "If only I could believe your nonsense," said Lin Zhen and ignored him as he went back to his room.

    Hyson went to sit beside Fang Yiwen and asked, "What happened?"

    "I don''t know. But Zhen Ge seems to have a lot on his mind. He looked like he was in a daze and I didn''t feel like leaving him alone. And it''s true. It was more fun teasing him than sleeping alone in a big suite all by myself. What''s the fun in that?"

    "I agree. It wasn''t fun at all," said Hyson. "But what could be wrong with Zhen Ge?"

    "I think his love life is not going well,"mented Fang Yiwen casually.

    "I think so too," agreed Hyson.

    "You agree? Really? I thought he was single. Am I really the slowest in this group?"

    Hyson patted his shoulder, "Hang in there, Yiwen. You''re the fastest." He pointed at the game he was ying as he added, "Look, you have been married in this game for six years. People can''t even maintain a real-life rtionship for so long. You''re doing great already."

    Fang Yiwen gave him a look, "How do you know if that ''wife'' of mine is a guy behind the screen or a girl?"

    "So, why don''t you call this ''wife'' out sometime?" suggested Hyson.

    "No thanks. Real life is real life. The game is just a game. If I mixed up both, I''ll lose the fun and peace of my life."

    "Why do you say that?" asked Hyson.

    "Just think about it. Let''s say it''s a girl and we really hit it off in real life too. But there is no guarantee in life. What if she and I got bored of each other and parted on bad terms? Later, even if I want to y this favorite game of mine, I won''t be able to have the same fun because I''ll keep associating this game with her and in turn, it''ll remind me of our bitter ending. Too much to handle for me. So, I''ll pass."

    Hyson gave him a look. He always thought his Yiwen Ge was too carefree in life but it seemed, that wasn''t the case. He did think of things clearly. So, it could be seen that when he came to this city with the dream of being an idol, it wasn''t just a whim of a teenager. He really had his ns.

    "Also, this ''wife'' of mine, is only there because we make a good team," added Fang Yiwen. "I don''t waste my time chatting with this person. Besides, now I rarely even y this game. So, I might not be as attached to it as it seems."

    "What''s going on with your game endorsement?" asked Hyson.

    "I''m already done with the ads, live streaming, and even the campaign. Now, their annual championship is gonna start next month. I''d have to appear in the finals."

    "Had fun?" asked Hyson.

    "It was okay."

    "Just okay? Don''t you love gaming?"

    "It might not seem like it, but I still love our group a lot more. I''d rather be on a tour." Fang Yiwen took a look at Hyson and asked, "What about you? Having fun?"

    "Ge, I miss you too! I''d also rather be on a tour or even in the rehearsal room getting tortured by your dancing lessons."

    "What? Acting isn''t fun? With your character, I thought you''d enjoy it more."

    "It''s okay. I''m not against it. Doing it asionally is fine. But I still love singing a lot more."

    "What are you both taking about?" asked Lin Zhen as he came out.

    "Just chatting," replied Hyson. "Zhen Ge, where are we having lunch?"

    "You just had breakfast and you''re already looking forward to lunch?" asked Lin Zhen with a helpless smile.

    "Recently, my day goes like this. Wake up looking forward to breakfast, after breakfast push my life forward with the hope of lunch and after lunch, only dinner is my motivation."

    "And after dinner?" asked Fang Yiwen.

    "Of course, I''d love somete night snacks but considering I''m already pushing the limit of my weight, I can''t do it everyday. So, I can only console myself with the idea of having anything in my dreams."

    Fang Yiwen threw his head back andughed unabashedly while Lin Zhen was a little restrained but it could be seen that he was also very amused by Hyson''s words.

    Hyson looked at their reaction and shrugged his shoulders. He was being very serious. How can people amuse themselves on the expense of his misery.

    "If you have to eat the boxed lunches on the production set, you''ll understand my pain!"

    "It couldn''t be that bad," said Lin Zhen. "Even if it''s a boxed lunch, considering the investments of that movie, I don''t think the production team would wrong their staff and actors."

    "It''s edible and better than most. But I''m someone who craves delicious food. How can I be satisfied with that lunch box? Even the hotel food is not enough. I wish I could pack up my godmother or my mum in a suitcase and take them with me."

    "I''ve been hearing this for years," said Fang Yiwen. "Whenever we went on tours, you always had the same thing to say. I didn''t understand the reason why but after eating the food at your home, I do understand why you''d be so persistent about this idea."

    "I''m not saying that five stars chefs are not better than my godmother but it''s just that I''d still prefer my godmother''s food over anything."

    "You should broaden your horizon and try all the delicacies in the world," suggested Lin Zhen.

    "I have this goal. Why else do you think I always order all sorts of things when we go out? Isn''t it just to try something new? But after all these years, I still think the taste of home is the best. The bestest!"

    "The taste of home?" repeated Fang Yiwen and Lin Zhen simultaneously. Both had their own thoughts but they both sighed with a bitter taste at that.

    Tha taste of home for them was far different than what Hyson had. Maybe that''s why they were never able to understand his stubbornness. But it didn''t matter. As long as he was happy, they''d go along with him. Who made him the youngest of their group? They had to give some way to this kid, no?

 Chapter 1179: One More

    Chapter 1179: One MoreHyson could still see the entanglement that both of them were going through because of his words. So, he didn''t add more to it. He was the one who had the most mysterious family situation in their group. But others never hid anything about their family. In fact, Hyson was also very transparent. He always made it clear that he only had a mother.

    But he never stopped talking about his Yanyan even though he didn''t call her, godmother. And how could he not say a word about his best friend? Raelle was mentioned almost every single day. It could be said that Raelle was his motivation and reason for working so hard.

    For no other reason but that he wanted to be worthy of his best friend. It''d be embarrassing if he didn''t do well inparison to her. Even if Raelle didn''t feel shameful but he would definitely want to bury himself alive if he couldn''t even stand beside her.

    However, no matter what situations they had at home, these boys had be a family after so many years. Even if Hyson joined themter, they never made him feel like he wasn''t a part of them. In fact, this was the most basic reason why they were able to survive in the industry for so long.

    If the brotherhood was fake, then over time someone would be able to see the clues. But their group had a very close rtionship and everyone knew that. That''s why, even if they all had a house of their own now, they''d still go back to the dormitory where they all lived together.

    "Yiwen, go and call the other two," instructed Lin Zhen as he looked at the time. "I sent everyone the message an hour ago and these two are still dawdling."

    "You''re not as appealing as the beauties in their embrace right now,"mented Fang Yiwen which made Hyson burst outughing. Thankfully, he wasn''t drinking or eating something or it''d have been a disaster.

    "That''s a good one, Yiwen Ge," Hyson gave him a thumbs up while Lin Zhen rolled his eyes at the two of them. "Zhen Ge, you need to be patient with people who have dates. If you say anything, they''d say that us single dogs won''t understand anything."

    "I agree," said Fang Yiwen. "Zhen Ge, times are changing. It''s not likest year when you''d give a call and they''de running. After all, they were too single at that time. Now, it''s different."

    "You both..." Lin Zhen wanted to say something but eventually, all his words turned into a sigh. He really couldn''t argue with these two since what they said was not entirely wrong. "Maybe Shuyi is still sleeping. You know his love for sleep. And since Zi Hong had been on hiatus, he had been..."

    "Ge, no matter how many excuses you make for them. The real reason is definitely what we said," said Fang Yiwen.

    "What are you all talking about?"

    All three of them looked over and saw both Huang Shuyi and Pei Zi Honging into the room. Since Lin Zhen had kept the door unlocked, they could enter freely and could even hear theughter from inside.

    "Shuyi Ge, when did you wake up today?" asked Hyson first without wasting any time.

    Huang Shuyi frowned but touching his earlobe where his earing was missing today, he still answered, "I woke up around 6. Why?"

    Hyson turned his eyes to Lin Zhen, "Did you see that, Ge? People can miss out on sleep when something or someone bes more important."

    "What are you talking about, Fai?" asked Huang Shuyi in confusion.

    Then he felt the unkind eyes of everyone around him. Even Pei Zi Hong gave him a strange smile. Feeling the danger, he took a step back but before he could run, they all pounced on him and dragged him over.

    "Fai, don''t touch my hair!"

    "Yiwen, why are you tickling me?"

    "Zi Hong! Let go of my hands!"

    "Zhen Ge, why aren''t you saying anything to these people?"

    Although Lin Zhen didn''t participate, he didn''t stop the others two. He just stood watching them making trouble and his face that had been a bit gloomy actually evoked a sincere smile right now. Seeing them making trouble, he actually feel the headache as he usually did. In fact, all he thought was that it was good to have these people in life.

    "Okay, let him go!" Finally Lin Zhen spoke up and the others immediately let go. It showed that whether they called their leader naggy or mom, it won''t change what prestige he had between their group.

    Huang Shuyi fixed his shirt and touched his hair saying, "It took me a lot of time to fix it."

    "Oh? And why did you fix it, Shuyi Ge? Normally you don''t even mind your bird''s nest," Hyson pointed out teasingly.

    "I remember someone even went to a fan signing in his sweatshirt," Fang Yiwen reminded.

    "Times have changed," said Pei Zi Hong. "Now, Huang Shuyi is so well dressed that even I''m unable to believe it''s the same person whose eyes doesn''t even open all day."

    No matter how slow he was, Huang Shuyi could understand what they were talking about. He rubbed his forehead and shook his head. It''s not like he wanted to hide anything from them. But nothing was too certain so he didn''t say anything to them.

    Who knew they''d make a scene because of that?

    "All this just because I have a girlfriend?" he asked.

    "No. All this because you didn''t share," answered Hyson.

    "Why don''t you say anything to this one then," Huang Shuyi pointed at Pei Zi Hong who had been enjoying himself but the fire suddenly was turned to him catching his off guard. "He hid it for a year. I didn''t even intend to hide it! Worse! We only found out through media when it was his turn!"

    As Hyson and Fang Yiwen looked at him unkindly, Pei Zi Hong cursed under his breath seeing Huang Shuyi''s devilish smile. This schemer was so unkind!

    "I already apologized for that," said Pei Zi Hong. "I thought we closed that chapter."

    "Then today, we are in the mood of re-reading that chapter, Ge," said Fang Yiwen as he rolled up his sleeves.

    As Pei Zi Hong tried to make a run for his life, Huang Shuyi restrained him like he did to him earlier. As they say, don''tugh at someone''s misery. You might be in the same situation in the future. In this case, the future came too early. Pei Zi Hong regretted it so much. He shouldn''t haveughed at thiszy but wicked person named Huang Shuyi.

    "What should we do with this one, Yiwen Ge?" asked Hyson seriously considering his options.

    "His crime is more serious," said Fang Yiwen. "Punishment should be more than Huang Shuyi. After all, we are very fair people. What if we let him go easily and Shuyi Ge felt unbnced?"

    "That''s right," Huang Shuyi chimed in. "We have always had a just and fair system in our group. Let''s not chill each other''s hearts by letting him go easily."

    "Shuyi!" Pei Zi Hong gritted out his name through his teeth in anger.

    Huang Shuyi was holding him from behind and easily came close to his ear to whisper, "Who told you to join them? Would I do it if you had been kind?"

    Seeing as Fang Yiwen and Hyson shared a look and as if understand each others'' thoughts, they started stretching making it look like they were about to go for a fight or something.

    "You''re the youngest, you go first," said Fang Yiwen as he patted Hyson''s shoulder.

    "Okay," agreed Hyson as he stepped up. "Are you ready, Zi Hong Ge?"

    "Who can be ready for this?" asked Pei Zi Hong.

    Hyson clenched his fist and as his fist was about to make contact with his face, Pei Zi Hong closed his eyes. But the expected pain didn''te, he opened his eyes after waiting for a minute and when he felt like he was safe, Hyson flicked right between his brows making him hiss.

    Pei Zi Hong felt like this was more evil than punching him. Why? because he almost rxed earlier that he won''t be getting a beating. And just when the hope was born, Hyson crushed it with the flick of his finger. How evil!

    Obviously, the others didn''t think so as Fang Yiwen cheered from the side, "One more!"

    "Just one?" asked Hyson.

    "I also have to do this and Shuyi and Zhen Ge are also behind me," Fang Yiwen pointed out. "What if his empty brain got even emptier? Won''t we be questioned by his fianc¨¦e? I don''t wanna stand in front of He Rou for questioning."

    Pei Zi Hong red at him, "You! I''m your friend! And you''re actually going easy on me for my girlfriend?"

    "I wanted to punch this face," said Fang Yiwen. "You should be d that I''m letting you go."

    Pei Zi Hong didn''t believe those words at all. He had had plenty of scuffled with Fang Yiwen over the years and this guy had never really did anything to actually do any damage. At most, he''ll y tricks to get back at him.

 Chapter 1180: Comeback

    Chapter 1180: ComebackLin Zhen watched everything with his arms crossed but he was really wondering if he was still stuck with a bunch of kids. Who would say these men were all in theirte twenties? Even the youngest was in his mid-twenties. And yet, they were acting like middle schoolers. It was a real headache for him.

    But he was also quite content with the fact that at least their fights were limited to this and there was no jealousy or infighting between them. It saved him a lot of distress but the headache that was in his fate was still there.

    "Are you done, kids?" he spoke out.

    "No, mom!"

    Lin Zhen gave them a re when they shouted that but he was quite helpless against it either.

    "Attention!"

    "Mom is angry, everyone. Be serious," said Fang Yiwen.

    "Yiwen, you want me to take away your favorite headphones?"

    Fang Yiwen rolled his eyes and muttered, "See? Isn''t this exactly what mothers do?"

    "If I don''t act like it, would you survive? I have to take away your takeout boxes every time Ie back. And until or unless I tell you to clean up your room, you''ll never do it."

    Fang Yiwen looked very innocent as he said, "I can only survive on takeouts when mom is not there is cook."

    "So, it''s my fault?"

    "You just said I can''t survive without you," Fang Yiwen pointed out.

    "Okay, I don''t wanna continue this topic," said Lin Zhen. "You two..." He turned to Pei Zi Hong and Huang Shuyi, "If you wanna keep secrets from us brothers, at least do a better job and don''t get caught. I won''t intervene and save you all the time." Then he looked at Hyson and smiled, "And you, Fai... Everything is good with you. Just stay happy."

    Hyson''s lips twitched, "Am I a kid, Ge?"

    "You all are," replied Lin Zhen. "I can''t remember a time when you all have acted mature. Except for the time when I asked if you want to disband to avoid the negative influence from Pei Zi Hong''s dating scandal. Only at that time, I felt like you all have grown up."

    "Zhen Ge, you should be happy that at least we have our mature moments too," said Huang Shuyi. "Don''t be so serious in life."

    "It''s saying the person whose whole life is all about sleeping."

    "I''m changing!"

    All of them rolled their eyes at thatment as if in sync making Huang Shuyi actually doubt whether he was so bad.

    "Ge, you speakter. Let me settle my score here first," said Hyson and walked to Huang Shuyi. "Shuyi Ge, what are you up to? Rabbits don''t eat grass near their nests."

    "Oh? So?" asked Huang Shuyi.

    "You went to find someone from my family to date? Couldn''t you look elsewhere? Is it okay to do this to your little brother?"

    "Her rtionship is still a bit distant from your family," said Huang Shuyi as he rubbed his nose.

    "But she is my godmother''s favorite niece from her mother''s side," said Hyson. "You... How did you even meet?"

    Huang Shuyi scratched his chin while Fang Yiwen answered for him, "Isn''t that your own fault? You invited us to your home when Raelle was discharged from the hospital. She was there too."

    Hyson also recalled that Gou Jinjin seemed to be really there that day. So, it started from there?

    "But seeing that you are friends with our family''s Major, I can see why you''d like Gou Jinjin."

    "Oh? Why is that?" asked Huang Shuyi curiously.

    "They both have a very simr personality," answered Hyson. "Except that our Major Wai has be a lot more thorny because of her life experience and job."

    Huang Shuyi nodded his head, "Indeed. When we were young, she was a lot sweeter than now. It seems like she is full of explosives now. Her temper was never good to begin with but with time, even she became stinky."

    Hyson pursed his lips before saying, "Do you want me to tell her this?"

    "Don''t!" Huang Shuyi held up his hand and eximed. "Don''t you do that. We have known each other longer. I''ve loved you for so long and pampered you for so many years. How can you change sides? Especially when you don''t even see eye to eye with Wai."

    "But it''s fun to see her blowing her top," said Hyson andughed at that inn amusement all by himself. He thoroughly enjoyed seeing Wai losing herposure. Why else would he take the trouble to go and poke her from time to time?

    "She''d blow her top if she heard that too."

    "Shuyi, you really like her?" asked Fang Yiwen doubtfully.

    "You have a doubt?"

    "I''m just wondering what kind of a rtionship you can have with Miss Gou. From what I know, she studied medicine and didn''t practice it for long and went into management. She is highly qualified and a capable woman. You sure, that''s a good idea?"

    "What do you mean? I''m not good enough for her? I also studied business in college! Remember?"

    "I remember," Pei Zi Hong raised his hand. "How can I forget the day of her defense when you overslept and I had to take you on a ride on my bike."

    "Right. How can I forget that stupid bike of yours?" asked Huang Shuyi.

    "Hey!" Pei Zi Hong became sensitive.

    "What? It stopped after 2 miles. I had to run to catch up and almost missed my chance to graduate," reminded Huang Shuyi.

    "You can''t me my bike for that. The reality is that if you hadn''t overslept, none of that would have happened."

    Huang Shuyi snorted at that. It was a real crime in this house to say a bad word about Pei Zi Hong''s bike. It could cause a fight to break out.

    "And you also kicked my bike that day."

    "You should be d it was just a kick."

    "Are we all done or not?" asked Lin Zhen. "Why do you all have so much to say? Our chat group is always buzzing and you still have something to say? I understand that we are seeing each other after weeks but I don''t think it''s been that long. Also, we have always been in contact too."

    "Zhen Ge, don''t pour cold water on our heated reunion," said Hyson. The others only dared to nod slightly agreeing with Hyson but didn''t dare to voice out their opinion in front of Lin Zhen. Who made Hyson the youngest and Lin Zhen the oldest here? Only the youngest in the house can challenge the oldest in the house. This rule can''t be broken and they dare not mess with this rule too.

    "But I have serious business to discuss with you all," said Lin Zhen. "Why do you all keep acting like I''m not even here?"

    "We know you are here," said Hyson. "It''s just that we are also used to your silent presence."

    "I want to talk about our group activities," started Lin Zhen.

    "We are going back to work?" asked Huang Shuyi.

    "Aren''t you already working on that dance reality show?"

    "That''s different," said Huang Shuyi. "That''s not my real job."

    "True," agreed Lin Zhen.

    "But didn''t I hear that Zi Hong Ge is gonna announce his engagement within this period of time?" asked Fang Yiwen.

    "That''s what I want to confirm too," said Lin Zhen. "I''ve been working on our new album and I want to know what you all think about it."

    When they all looked at Pei Zi Hong, he smiled sheepishly, "After Rourou is done with the shoot, we are indeed nning to announce our engagement. In fact, our families already confirmed the dates and all. We are only dying to match Rourou''s schedule." He took a pause and added, "Will it affect our schedule? Would we have to postpone the album because of this?"

    "No," answered Lin Zhen. "I don''t think so."

    "I think we shouldn''t overthink this. Thepany won''t interfere with our decision now. So, let''s release the news of our album and Ge''s engagement one after the other. This way, one thing can offset the other."

    "And what if it affected oureback?" asked Pei Zi Hong worriedly. He didn''t want to trouble them again.

    "Zi Hong Ge, if you don''t want trouble? I suggest you release the news of your engagement or even marriage right now," suggested Hyson.

    "Why?"

    "Because no one will care," said Fang Yiwen. "After all, right now who cares about you when the biggest headlines are all about the rtionship between President Raelle and Master Xian? Who would even think about a small fry like you?"

    "You have to insult me like this?" asked Pei Zi Hong.

    "He isn''t embarrassing you," said Huang Shuyi. "He is indeed telling the truth. If you really don''t want any waves, then choose this time to release any news. At this time, people are only curious about what this engagement banquet looked like and who were the guests and what they wore."

 Chapter 1181: Stingy Bros

    Chapter 1181: Stingy BrosPei Zi Hong also fell into thought when he heard his brothers saying that so seriously. It seemed he was really a small fry. And this fact wasn''t even that uneptable either. After all, he didn''t think he could go against President Raelle Xiang or even Master Xian. Even his family wouldn''t dare say they could outshine this pair much less him.

    "You don''t think my Rourou will be able to cause a ssh at this time?" asked Pei Zi Hong.

    "Are you forgetting something?" asked Hyson. He could actually see through Pei Zi Hong''s thoughts. He could ept that he was a small fry but he didn''t want his fiance¨¦ to be the same. Love... It really made people different.

    "What am I forgetting?" asked Pei Zi Hong in confusion.

    "Even I know this," said Huang Shuyi. "Miss He Rou postponed the announcement of her bing the global brand ambassador of a luxury makeup brand. All because of the hype of this engagement. Why do you think that is so? If you don''t know how hyped this event had been then you''re clearly out of touch with society and I''m shocked to know that. After all, it''s been always me who was thest to know anything happening around us."

    Pei Zi Hong was suddenly reminded and he facepalmed himself. He really forgot it for a moment. "I guess we are really nothing."

    "No, that''s not true," said Fang Yiwen. "President Raelle had been the most low-key person. Even if she was named in the list of richest people, or awarded for her work. It was always her name that was mentioned and people never really saw her. Her first appearance broke the server. And people are used to seeing celebrities. President Raelle isn''t a celebrity like us. She can still gain so many fans mostly because of the mystery that shrouds her. Think about it, people still don''t know what kind of a person she is or what her real background is."

    "Mystery is always people''s favorite genre,"mented Huang Shuyi.

    "There is another favorite genre," Lin Zhen chimed in. "It''s romance."

    "Huh?" They all looked at him dumbfounded.

    Lin Zhen was amused by their expression and shook his head as he added, "Isn''t it obvious? When Raelle made her first appearance in front of the media, she was apanied by her husband. They hadn''t announced their rtionship back then and yet, people could see there was a spark between then that was undeniable. And then, Raelle chose to get on her knee to propose to Shui Xian. How many such spontaneous proposals have you seen around? It was the sincerity of that proposal that made people gush."

    "People actually like eating dog food?" asked Hyson. "I''m so sick of it already."

    "And yet you''re trying to match everyone around you?" asked Lin Zhen.

    "I have my reasons for that," replied Hyson righteously.

    "Oh? Prey tell!"

    "Zhen Ge, if everyone finds a partner, they will stop paying so much attention to me. So, I can be free. That''s why, I am bearing with the dog food around me these days."

    "You have quite some long-terms ns,"mented Lin Zhen,

    "I have always been a long-term guy. I don''t do short term things. It''s either forever or never for me," said Hyson smugly.

    A wave of apuse sounded around him and Hyson smiled as he took all the apuse without any humbleness.

    "I like that dialogue. It''s either forever or never! Marvelously said! Where did you copy it from?" asked Fang Yiwen.

    "Yiwen Ge, I''m an original! I don''t copy people. They copy me," Hyson even flicked his hair as he said that making everyoneugh at his antics.

    "If you''re done boasting, can we talk about serious business?" asked Lin Zhen.

    "There is still serious business to talk about?" asked Hyson. "Weren''t we done?"

    "When did you all even let me talk?" asked Lin Zhen in exasperation. He was so tired just talking to these people. It drained more energy than working in the studio everyday.

    "Isn''t it about oureback?" asked Hyson. "Let''s just work on it. For now, we don''t have to announce everything. We can n other things slowly."

    "But how to match our schedule?"

    "I''m avable whenever you want me," said Fang Yiwen.

    "Me too!" said Pei Zi Hong.

    "Same here," added Huang Shuyi as he yawned a little and propped his face on his hand to squint for a moment.

    "What about you, Fai?"

    "Me?" Hyson thought about it and shrugged. "Actually, I have a lot of free time."

    "Aren''t you shooting for your other movie that you just signed?"

    "I did sign for a new role but I''m not considered the lead. The real lead is Rowan. I''m ying the older version of his role. And I have considerably fewer scenes them him. So, I do have a lot of time. Also, I''ll just have to shoot for two weeks in Cheng Province. I''ll be back to shoot here after that."

    "Rowan?" repeated Lin Zhen.

    "Oh, it''s Chen," Hyson exined.

    "I have heard of him,"mented Fang Yiwen. "In fact, I did see hisst work too. He is amazing."

    "Didn''t you see himst night?" asked Hyson.

    "He was here?"

    "Of course."

    "Why didn''t you say so earlier? I love talented people."

    "It''s okay. You bring a coffee support truck for me to the shoot and I''ll introduce you to him," suggested Hyson.

    "For the introduction, I first have to send a support truck?" asked Fang Yiwen.

    "Nothing is free in this world, Ge," reminded Hyson.

    "Isn''t love free?"

    "Who said that? Love is the most expensive thing in this world. Don''t ever think that love is free. That''s the biggest lie of this world. If love was so free, everyone would be able to afford it and there won''t be so many singles in the world." He took a pause and added, "By the way, you all are so stingy bros. None of you sent me a support truck in myst shooting."

    "You asked us not to do so."

    "So what? I said and you listened? I never thought you all were so obedient. Why don''t you just ept that you''re all stingy?"

    All of them didn''t want to argue with him at all so they just took the me without a word.

 Chapter 1182: [Bonus chapter] Become A Mother

    Chapter 1182: [Bonus chapter] Be A Mother"I quite like this hotel," said Raelle when they were checking out making Shui Xian raise his brow at her in surprise.

    "Why?"

    "They have a big bathtub," she answered as if it was the most normal thing to say but it made Shui Xian''s ear red as he remembered what they did in the bathtubst night. He was trying so hard to think of something else and took a deep breath to stabilize his breathing.

    "Baby, can you not say such things so randomly?" asked Shui Xian. "My poor heart can''t take it."

    "Poor heart?" she repeated. "How is that a poor heart?" She ced her hand on his chest and added, "This heart can love someone like me, I think it''s capable of anything."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and shook his head.

    As they were walking out of the lobby, Raelle suddenly stopped. Shui Xian looked at her and asked, "What''s wrong? What are you looking at?" He followed her gaze and saw the two women whom Raelle was looking at, he had a very strange expression on his face too. "Your old mother and new mother look quite close and friendly."

    Yes, Raelle was looking at Song Xin''ai and Su Feifei who were sitting in the lobby together and seemed to be engrossed in discussion. Little Rowan was also close by. Earlier when he told her that his grandaunt was talking to an acquaintance, she didn''t think that acquaintance would be her own mother.

    This was quite a surprise to her.

    "I neither have an old mother, nor a new one," answered Raelle to her husband. She pointed at Song Xin''ai, "She left when a child would need a mother." Then she turned to Su Feifei, "And that one is still not a certainty. And even if she does marry Xiang Hulin, she still won''t be my new mother. It''s my age to be a mother. Not looking for a mother."

    Shui Xian coughed when he heard that and scratched his head.

    Was it really just him or his wife''s randomments looking like she was flirting with him all the time? Why was he so un-used to it all?

    "I didn''t think they''d be close though,"mented Shui Xian ignoring herst sentence as they walked out of the hotel.

    "They seemed to be working on a project together," told Raelle. "Also, considering Miss Su is friends with Yanyan, it isn''t surprising that they know each other."

    "Still. Don''t you think Professor Song would be a bit ufortable talking to a person who is currently dating her ex-husband?"

    "Think about it yourself," said Raelle as she opened the door of the car to sit. "Do you really think Professor Song is ufortable?"

    Shui Xian contemted it for a while and sighed as he put on his seatbelt and started the car before saying, "Nah. I have observed your parents for a while now and I feel like they are both very cool about this divorce."

    "It''s been decades. Do you want them to hold grudges at this age?"

    "No," replied Shui Xian. "I think they never had a grudge. If anything, both of them had guilt. But they are very unbothered about everything else. Both of them can talk to each other like friends and they still seem quite close to each other. It was quite surprising when I first noticed it."

    "You think you can''t do the same when ites to Tang Hebe?" asked Raelle.

    "I..." Shui Xiand didn''t know what to say. Could he be as cool and unbothered as her parents? He was certainly not ufortable about seeing his ex-wife or had any thoughts about their divorce at all. He had moved on in life. So, he didn''t think there was any point in holding on to bad memories. However, he still didn''t think he could go back to being friends with Tang Hebe.

    Not because there was any guilt, grudge, or anything between them. It was just not the same as before. And he couldn''t pretend like nothing happened between them either.

    "I don''t think so," he replied honestly. "I don''t think I could look at her the same way as before. We can''t be friends anymore. You think I''m not enlightened enough like your parents?"

    "No," said Raelle. "I don''t think that at all. Talking about General Xiang or Professor Song, they are really not like you. They have different thought processes than you. So, you don''t have topare yourself with weirdos of my family including me."

    Shui Xian chuckled when he heard that.

    "Who wants topare? I just want to be good enough for you."

    "You''re good enough already."

    "By the way, you really don''t mind your father dating someone new?" asked Shui Xian curiously.

    "Should I mind? I don''t even care about him enough to think about what''s happening in his life. But if Yanyan thinks it''s right than she must have her reasons. I don''t like questioning her reasons because I can often not understand those reasons."

    Shui Xian nodded his head in understanding. Indeed, he was asking a dumb question. She couldn''t even be bothered about having a father in her life. Why would she be curious about anything else in that father''s life?

    "What about you, hubby?" she asked. "You''d mind if B¨¤ found someone new?"

    Shui Xian fell silent and his hands on the steering wheel clenched tightly before his grip eased a little. His eyes were glued on the road in front of him but his mind was all on the question she asked him. Would he mind? That was something he never thought of before in his life.

    "I''m not sure," he answered. "I''d be ufortable. I am not gonna lie about that. Although my B¨¤ had been busy in his life, I have still seen his rtionship with my mother. Whenever she was around, his eyes would only be on her. Even I or Amiah couldn''t take away his eyes from our mother. So, it''d be very ufortable for me to see him with someone who isn''t my mom."

 Chapter 1183: They Were There

    Chapter 1183: They Were ThereWhen Shui Xian just imagined the scene of seeing another woman with his B¨¤, it made him more than just ufortable. He couldn''t describe what he felt. Maybe that''s why he insisted on asking Raelle about her parents. But for a moment, he overlooked the fact that Raelle had no feelings for her parents at all. So, what they do in their lives had nothing to do with her and she won''t waste her time thinking about it either.

    It wasn''t like him who had grown up seeing the love between his parents.

    It was a whole different story for Raelle who wasn''t even familiar with the concept of having parents at home.

    "So, you want B¨¤ to be alone forever?" asked Raelle. "You can look for a new partner, he can''t?"

    Shui Xian was stumped by her questions. He didn''t know what to say. He felt like he brought this upon himself. Why did he even have to bring up this topic? Now, he was the one struggling to give the right answer. In fact, what really was the right answer? Was there really a right answer out there?

    "You just don''t want to give your mother''s ce to someone else," Raelle went on. "But how can you be so selfish? Don''t you think B¨¤ is lonely enough? Why aren''t you thinking about him?"

    "You''re right," said Shui Xian. "I do have selfish intentions and I know they are wrong. But there is another point too. I also know that my B¨¤ won''t look for another partner. Ever."

    "Why are you so certain?" asked Raelle.

    "You shouldn''t even be asking me that, baby," said Shui Xian. "Have you seen how much my B¨¤ loves my mom?"

    "I haven''t," answered Raelle honestly. "I didn''t see them together. However, I have met your mom and dad separately. And that experience tells me a lot about what kind of rtionship they had. Yes, I do agree that B¨¤ loved Mom a lot. I mean that''s the man who loved that woman even when she loved another man. And when the other man was out of the picture, he still ran after her desperately. So, it isn''t that difficult to know that he is really not interested in looking for another person."

    "Exactly! He loved one woman with all his heart and then that was it," said Shui Xian. "I asked my B¨¤ recently that if mom didn''t have a breakup, would he have given up and looked for someone else? He said, no. He said when he first fell for her, he had decided that it was either her or no one else. That''s why I said, he might be lonely but he won''t be looking for another person."

    "Then you can''tpare B¨¤ with General Xiang or Professor Song," said Raelle. "In a way, B¨¤ is also sentimental like you. Your mom said in her letter that you''re like her but I believe that you aren''t that different from B¨¤ either. He also loves with a passion too. He is also someone who listens to his heart but do you think General Xiang and Professor Song also are like that?"

    Shui Xian pursed his lips before shaking his head, "No. They are rational people who don''t sway with emotions."

    "Yes," agreed Raelle. "And that''s why you can''t look at them andpare them to B¨¤. They are very different kinds of people. Either it''s General Xiang or Professor Song, they had always put their work above family but B¨¤ is different. Even if he was a workaholic, he was willing to leave his career and achievements behind for you. For his family. I can tell you, in my weird family, we make clean breaks. We don''t like going on the same road which we have walked on before. That''s why whether it''s General Xiang or Professor Song, they have no intention of getting back together. They never even considered this possibility from the moment they filed for divorce. If there was a possibility, they wouldn''t have made that decision."

    "Do you think they don''t regret it?"

    "What''s the point of regret, Hubby? Can it turn back time? Regret is one of the most pointless things in life. Your regret won''t change anything. Your romorse might be able to help a little but regret won''t help anyone. And even if people regret something in our family, I don''t think they like to voice it out." She took a pause and asked, "Why are you even interested in this topic out of nowhere?"

    Shui Xian stopped the car at the signal and turned his head to face her, "After reading mom''s letter, I thought of your mother. I was wondering if she is also lonely. Don''t you think so? Everyone has someone beside them. Even if Uncle Xiang doesn''t date anyone, he''d still have his father and his sister around him to support and love him. But that''s not the case with Professor Song. She seems very lonely. To the point that I kind of feel bad for her."

    "You feel bad for her?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "Is it wrong for me to do so?"

    "I don''t think so," answered Raelle. "Maybe she is quite pitiful but who is to me for that? She is to me for that. She chose this loneliness herself. However, she isn''t as lonely as you think she is. It might not seem like it but whether it''s Wai or Weimin, they both got her back. They might have opinions about her but they won''t ever stop being by her side. So, she isn''t alone. She also have people who loves and cares about her in their own ways. And trust me, their love and care means to her more than anything else."

    "You really think they love and care about her?"

    "Yes," answered Raelle. "If they wanted to give up on her, they''d have done for all these years. After all, it''s not like she didn''t disappoint them over the years. And yet, they both chose to stick around even if they were grumbling around her, they still were there for her."

 Chapter 1184: Good Suggestion

    Chapter 1184: Good SuggestionThis weekend was quite exciting for everyone except for one person. And that was Xiang Weimin. He was the only one who was at home during this weekend and he even had to see everyone else around himughing and enjoying themselves while he was so anxious.

    He watched his father chatting with his grandfather as they came back from a walk, his aunt Chenyan also came back with a big smile on her face and even aunt Yue had a sweet smile on her face as she baked a cake for everyone. Oh, look, his sister was almost jumping around in joy looking like a fool.

    It was so damn obvious that the women in this house were in love that Xiang Weimin had no words to describe his mood being stuck in between them.

    Even the person who wasn''t in love was very annoying right now. And that person was Hyson who also had a lot of fun with his group members and only came back home on Sunday night.

    Xiang Weimin rubbed his face with his hand and picked up his tablet to work. If he kept looking at these people, his own sullen-ness will make him more depressed in contrast with the pink bubbles in this home.

    "What''s up, Lieutenant?"

    Xiang Weimin looked at Hyson''s hand on his shoulder and turned to look at his smiling face. Right now, this smiling face was like mocking him, reminding him that he was the only one who was going through the biggest crisis of his life. And yes, this crisis was having a son out of nowhere and not being able to even bring that son home.

    Sigh! What did he do wrong to deserve this?

    He didn''t think he did so many bad deeds in his life to deserve this kind of a punishment from the Heaven. In fact, he believed he had done a lot of good deeds in life. Especially those that involved saving lives.

    "Are you ignoring me?" asked Hyson when Xiang Weimin didn''t respond.

    "No," answered Xiang Weimin. "Can I dare to ignore you, Xiang family''s little prince?"

    "My title of the little prince is in jeopardy right now, Ge," reminded Hyson. "All because of your son."

    "Well, my identity as a father is also in jeopardy, do you know that?"

    Hyson pursed his lips to suppress hisughter and said, "I guess you have it worse, Ge."

    "Tell me about it," said Xiang Weimin.

    "You''ve been thinking about that all this while?" asked Hyson.

    "I''m not thinking," answered Xiang Weimin.

    Hyson pointed at his tablet, "You''ve been looking at the same page for the past half and hour since I came back home."

    Xiang Weimin closed his eyes and refused toment on that.

    "What are you so worried about, Ge?"

    "What do you think?"

    "You think you won''t get your son?"

    "I don''t want him," said Xiang Weimin.

    "What?!" eximed Hyson as he jumped out of his seat. "Opa, your grandson says he doesn''t want to bring your great-grandson back home!"

    Xiang Weimin put his hand on Hyson''s mouth to stop him from shouting. If his grandfather really heard this, he''d be so dead!

    "Do you want me dead?" asked Xiang Weimin. "Why are you so impatient? Let me at least finish what I want to say first before yelling."

    Hyson gave him a suspicious look.

    "I didn''t mean to say that I don''t want my son," said Xiang Weimin. Seeing his disbelieving look, he added, "What I mean is that, I don''t want to snatch him from his adopted mother. That''d be wrong to do so, don''t you think so?"

    Hyson tapped his hand which was still blocking his mouth and when Xiang Weimin put his hand down, Hyson said, "So, what? You want to let the things be?"

    "No way! If I wanted that, would I be so anxious all this while?"

    "Then tell me what''s on your mind?"

    "It''s my first time being a father."

    "There is nothing new about that," said Hyson. "Everyone bes a father for the first time. They don''te with experience."

    Xiang Weimin rolled his eyes at him, "What I mean is, my son is already old enough to understand things. Don''t you think it''s more nerve-wrecking to go to him at this age to tell him that, ''Hi, son! I''m your father!''"

    Hyson shuddered at that, "I won''t like that."

    "Exactly!" said Xiang Weimin. "I''m worried that Justin won''t be able to ept it. And no, I don''t want things to be as they are. I do ept that Miss Tang has done an amazing job at raising my son but I can''t just forget that he is my son and let her have him all to herself. I might be kind enough to not take away her status as the adopted mother of my son, but I want my status as a father too."

    "Why don''t you just marry her then?"

    There was a burst of gasps behind them and as they turned around, they found the three women of the family standing behind them.

    "What nonsense are you talking about?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Did I say anything wrong?" asked Hyson. "I think it''s the best solution. We can''t snatch Justin from his mother. Justin won''t like being apart from her either. But we also want Justin toe back home to his roots. So, isn''t the best option to just let Ge marry Miss Tang? It''s the best of both worlds."

    While Xiang Wai had a disapproving look on her face regarding his suggestion, Mu Chenyan had a thoughtful expression. And Yue Yue straight up went to beat her son for even saying this.

    ''Marriage is not a joke! How can you y around like this with something sacred like marriage? Do you even hear yourself? Does it even make sense?''

    Hyson rubbed his head where he was hit and grumbled, "What did I say wrong? I think it''s a good suggestion."

 Chapter 1185: For A Reason

    Chapter 1185: For A Reason"That''s a good suggestion. How?" asked Xiang Wai looking very displeased right now with Hyson. "Please, think carefully before speaking. You can''t make such irresponsible remarks out of nowhere."

    "And how is my suggestion bad, Major?" asked Hyson. "It''s clearly the best way right now. It''ll kill many birds with one stone. Wanna know how? Think about it. One, the matter of Weimin Ge''s marriage will be solved. Two, we don''t have to take Justin away from his mother. Three, Without having too much drama we can bring the son of our family back home. Four and the most important one, we''ll be giving Justin aplete family that he really needs right now considering his mental health. Now, Major? You wanna argue with me and say that I''m wrong?"

    Just a moment ago, Xiang Wai was ready to wage a world war but she deted all because of Hyson''sst sentence. Yes. She could counter all the other arguments he made but she really couldn''t say anything about thest one.

    It''s not like she was a fool who couldn''t understand that this matter was actually more serious than it seemed. Not because of Xiang Weimin, Tang Hebe, or even Chi Xirui''s background. It was all because of a little boy whom they all seemed to care about. Justin.

    That''s it. He was the reason, all of them were not allowed to bring themselves to rush into it. After all, breaking into Justin''s world so suddenly might not be a good thing for him.

    And none of them wanted to hurt him or leave him with any psychological shadow. There seemed to be a trauma he was already terrified about. They couldn''t add more to that at this point.

    "Actually, Fai isn''t wrong,"mented Mu Chenyan after thinking about it carefully.

    Yue Yue turned to her best friend and narrowed her eyes at her, ''No! You don''t get to take his side on this one too. Stop siding with him.''

    "I''m not siding with him," said Mu Chenyan in her defense. "I''m clearly just saying that he is right. I''ve thought about this issue in the past couple of days and I also think he has the best idea. I understand now why Elle asked us to calm down and take our time before going to make a decision or going to see Tang Hebe. She didn''t want us to take any wrong step in impulse."

    ''But...''

    Mu Chenyan held up her hand to stop Yue Yue from continuing, "Let me finish. Between all of us, Elle knows and understands Justin more. That''s why she didn''t want us to destroy Justin''s world all of a sudden. However, marriage really solves a lot of problems for us right now as Fai said."

    Yue Yue shook her head, ''Marriage is not a joke! You all need to stop taking it as a joke. You can''t y with it like this. Whether it''s Weimin or Tang Hebe, they both barely even know each other. How can you even ask them to marry right now?''

    Mu Chenyan snorted, "I even asked my Elle to marry Xian without even seeing each other once. At least, Weimin has met Tang Hebe."

    ''Are you very proud of that?''

    "Very!" said Mu Chenyan. "Have you seen my Elle and Xian? How can I not be proud?"

    ''That''s very different from this. That was an arranged marriage.''

    "And what is this?"

    ''This is a contract! This marriage is based on profits. You can''t marry because of a child! That''s not right.''

    "People get married for all the wrong reasons in this world," said Mu Chenyan. "What''s so wrong about this?"

    "Mum," Hyson decided to join in their conversation. "Yanyan is right. Marriage isn''t just based on love. There wouldn''t be so many singles in this world if all they needed was love in life."

    ''I don''t agree with this,'' said Yue Yue.

    "I''m with Aunt Yue on this one," added Xiang Wai. "A big fat no to this marriage from me too. I know marriage isn''t all for love but I don''t want to make such deals when ites to my nephew. It''s uneptable!"

    "It''s funny how you all have a lot to say but no one seems to even care about my opinion," said Xiang Weimin. Clearly, he should have the right to decide here but no. Everyone else wants to add their two cents. Who fucking cares about his opinion here?

    "You don''t get to say anything, Mister!" said Mu Chenyan. "You''re someone who didn''t even know about your son. I''m the one who found him. So, you keep quiet!"

    Xiang Weimin rubbed his nose and wondered how was it his fault. "I''m the most innocent one here."

    "Oh? If you''re so innocent? Where did Justine from?"

    Xiang Weimin coughed and said, "What I mean is that I didn''t even know. Why do you guys keep reminding me that?"

    "Because you have disappointed this family, Xiang Weimin!" said Mu Chenyan. "No one gave me this much worry in my life as you did just in these few days."

    "Actually, aunt, have you considered that what if Raelle didn''t meet Justin and didn''t bring him home? Would you even see him? No, forget that. What if she hadn''t unknowingly saved Justin''s life? Would we see him? Won''t we be living without even knowing there is a child of this family out there somewhere in this world?"

    Mu Chenyan paused and then said, "I don''t wanna consider it. Everything happens for a reason. I believe he was meant toe to us. And he did find his way to us. That''s all I need to know."

    "Right. That''s all that matters," agreed Hyson.

    "I still am against the marriage idea," reminded Xiang Wai.

    "Oh, get over it, Major!"

    "N. O. NO!" was Xiang Wai''s response. "Ge, I''m telling you. Don''t you dare make my nephew the reason for your marriage with someone you barely even know."

    "Raelle didn''t know Xian before marriage too,"mented Xiang Weimin. "Your idea is very wrong right now, sister."

 Chapter 1186: [Bonus chapter] Think About It

    Chapter 1186: [Bonus chapter] Think About It"Have you heard?"

    Raelle looked up from the book in her hand at her husband who came to sit with her. "What?"

    "There is an argument going on over there."

    "About what?"

    "About Weimin Ge''s marriage with Tang Hebe," answered Shui Xian with a strange expression."

    "Who came up with that?" asked Raelle. "Oh, forget it. It must be Hyson."

    Shui Xian gave her an appreciative nod, "Indeed. You know him the best. It''s him. He brought it up." He tsked to himself, "I don''t even know how these strange idease to his mind?"

    "It''s a strange idea?" asked Raelle. "How?"

    "Baby, you don''t think it''s strange?" asked Shui Xian.

    "I don''t think so," answered Raelle.

    Shui Xian was momentarily stumped. He went to the kitchen to get a cup of coffee for himself and came back to see Raelle focusing on the book again. She leaned against the side rest of the sofa and was sitting with her feet on the sofa. Shui Xian went to sit with her again but this time, he took her fair and delicate feet in his hands and put them on hisp before taking his cup of coffee from the table and asking again, "You really don''t think there is something wrong with Fai''s idea?"

    Raelle put the bookmark in the book in her hands and put it aside as she faced him, "What do you wanna know? Whether I mind this arranged marriage or this arranged marriage with Tang Hebe?"

    Shui Xian''s lips parted but nothing came out for a while. "I... I don''t know."

    "Why are you bothering my daughter-inw?"

    Shui Xian looked up at his father and said, "When did I bother her? We are just talking, B¨¤. Is something wrong with me talking to my wife?"

    "You''re taking her reading time, so, of course, you''re bothering her," argued Shui Koshing."

    "At this point, I don''t even wanna remind you that I''m your son. Because clearly, it''s pointless."

    Shui Koshing shrugged and turned to Raelle, "What is this fool anxious about?"

    "Hyson suggested getting Weimin and Tang Hebe to get married," told Raelle.

    "Oh," was Shui Koshing''s response.

    "That''s it, B¨¤?" asked Shui Xian. "You have nothing else to add to that ''oh''?"

    "No," responded Shui Koshing. "I don''t have anything else to add to that."

    "Am I the only one finding this strange here?"

    "Yes," answered Shui Koshing. "I don''t know why you''re even wasting your time on this. Think about it yourself, Xian. And before thinking about it, put aside your prejudice for Tang Hebe."

    "I don''t have any prejudice against her," said Shui Xian.

    "Is that so?" Shui Koshing sounded so perfunctory that Shui Xian felt like a breath was stuck in his chest or something. And seeing his wife''s nonchnt reaction, he really wondered if he was overreacting.

    "Fine. I''m gonna put aside my feelings. What else?"

    "Then now, think what''s best for Justin. Don''t think about Tang Hebe or Xiang Weimin. You just have to consider that little boy. Just him. And now tell me, what is wrong with what Fai suggested?"

    Shui Xian thought about it just as his father told him to do so. He had to agree that if he didn''t consider Tang Hebe in the picture, marriage seemed like the best option. Especially since Justin instantly bonded with Xiang Weimin and was so already looking up to him. He didck a father figure and he found it in Xiang Weimin. So, it''d be easier for him to ept Xiang Weimin as a father.

    But that didn''t mean for a father, he''d be willing to leave the mother who had been with him through all those dark nights when he woke up scared.

    "Okay. I agree. I don''t see anything wrong with giving Justin aplete family," said Shui Xian. "But are we gonna overlook the fact that there are no feelings between Tang Hebe and Xiang Weimin."

    "Hubby, do you remember what I told you when we went to get our first coffee together?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian recalled that meeting. It was all so vivid in his mind that he could still hear her voice in his head. "You said, marriage isn''t all for love. I tried the first time for love, this time I should give it a try for something else."

    "And how did that go for you?" asked Raelle.

    "I''m d that I agreed at that time. It was the best decision of my life," said Shui Xian.

    "Let''s not forget that you agreed to marry me because you wanted to do something for B¨¤. Am I right?" Shui Xian nodded his head. "But still, didn''t we build a rtionship that can make anyone envious?"

    "We did," he replied smugly.

    "Then what''s wrong with Xiang Weimin and Tang Hebe''s marriage for the sake Justin''s happiness? Who can guarantee that they won''t be happy together or it''ll be a bad decision?"

    "See? My daughter-inw is so much smarter than you," said Shui Koshing. "No wonder I like her more than you. Who would like an idiot son?"

    "Well, B¨¤. I know you love me."

    Shui Koshing had a smile in his eyes but tried to suppress his lips and said, "Well, who told you to look like your mother? Don''t be mistaken. It''s just that I see the shadow of your mother in you that I spare some love for you. Or do you think I''m a fool to love a fool like you?"

    Shui Xian chuckled at that, "Should I go thank mom now? I always told her though that her husband has no love to spare for his children because all his love is for her."

    "There is no lie in that."

    Shui Koshing didn''t deny it at all. He didn''t think there was a need to do so. He did love his wife more than anyone. Even more than his children. Who would care about these troublemakers who always tried to snatch his wife''s attention?

 Chapter 1187: Should Be Satisfied

    Chapter 1187: Should Be SatisfiedSadly enough for Shui Koshing, his wife''s attention was always stolen by these two kids of theirs. She hardly had time to look at her poor husband once they had kids.

    Raelle was observing Shui Koshing''s expressions and seeing the nostalgic smile on his face, she looked at Shui Xian before saying, "B¨¤!"

    "Hm?"

    "Would you like to go on a date with me tonight?"

    Shui Koshing''s brow lifted up when he heard that question, "Really?"

    "Do I look like someone who lies?"

    Shui Koshing shook his head honestly before saying, "If what you say is true then why not. Let''s do it. Tell me, what should we do?"

    "We can y whatever you want and wherever you want," said Raelle. "And after that, I''ll take you to a private kitchen for dinner. I heard the food is amazing there."

    "I''m all in for that," said Shui Koshing.

    "Let''s go bowling," suggested Shui Xian.

    "Who is taking you?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian''s face fell when he heard that, "What do you mean? I''m not a part of this date?"

    "No," answered Raelle cruelly.

    "We just got engaged and you''re already abandoning me?"

    "Don''t make that face with me," said Raelle. "I''m taking B¨¤ on a date. What are you gonna do?"

    "I''ll just y the role of background. I''ll help you carry your bags. I''ll help you hold your drinks. I''ll do whatever is there for me to do. But you can''t leave me out."

    "Seeing how poor you are," started Shui Koshing. "Daughter-inw, let''s spare him some pity and let hime with us."

    "Well, thank you!" said Shui Xian to his father and then turned to Raelle who hadn''t voiced out her opinion yet.

    "Fine. You cane with us," agreed Raelle. "But keep your word. You''re the background tonight. Just a prop."

    Shui Xianughed at those words but still nodded in agreement. As long as he was able to join them. He didn''t want to stay home alone. That won''t be fun at all.

    "I''m gonna get ready. I''ll be right back," said Shui Koshing as he happily went to change his clothes. It was a date with his beautiful daughter-inw. He couldn''t possibly ruin her image by being casually dressed. He had to do his best for her. Especially when she was trying her best to make sure he was involved in everything.

    Actually, he found it quite ironic that someone like Raelle was always trying to make him happy. She would share things with him and treat him as the real family. He didn''t think she even did that in the Xiang family because everyone in the Xiang family was used to her silence. But in the Shui family, she was always willing to talk to him.

    She would always bring interesting things and gadgets for him. Would always spare time to discuss the books they read or even would y games with him. All in all, she really didn''t make him feel lonely. He knew she was doing it just so he could feel less lonely.

    He understood her kind intentions and he appreciated it as well.

    For the millionth time, he was d that he gave Shui Xian an ultimatum to marry her back then. He didn''t think their family would be like it was now without her.

    Behind him, as Raelle was about to get up, Shui Xian held her feet in his hands tightly and didn''t let her move. "What do you want, Mr. Husband?"

    Shui Xian rubbed the soles of her feet with his fingers as he looked into her eyes but didn''t give an answer to her question. Raelle didn''t rush him either and just let him do whatever he wanted.

    "Don''t get tired," said Shui Xian.

    "Oh? If I y wildly, you can stop me in time."

    "Can''t do. I''ll be ying the prop. Props don''t talk."

    Raelle gave him a look, "You won''t be talking tonight?"

    "No," he responded. "I''m very serious about my roles. I yed the role of a tree in the kindergarten. I was very faithful to my role. And I''m still the same faithful and dedicatedd."

    "Who was so blind to make such a handsome tree though? I need to go and have a conversation with that person."

    Shui Xian smiled at her, "Your focus is wrong but I love the way you want to avenge me even if it happened so long ago."

    "No, I''m genuinely curious now. Why would anyone choose this face for a tree? It doesn''t make sense. Even Hyson got to y the dwarf in the y."

    Shui Xianughed at that, "Dwarf? Why?"

    "He was smaller than his peers when he was younger," told Raelle. "Don''t change the topic. What about you? Why the tree? Who made my husband the tree?"

    "I had a small fight with my cousin and since I pushed him. To apologize, I had to give him my role in the y and take on his role as the tree," exined Shui Xian.

    Raelle caressed his hair, "I didn''t know my hubby had been so wronged in life."

    Shui Xian also yed the role of the wronged guy as his eyes stared back at her, "I was really wrong. Thankfully, my mom didn''te to see the y. Or else, it would have been a disaster knowing that I lost my role." He stared at Raelle''s red lips and then looked into her eyes as he added, "I still feel bad thinking about how unfair it was to me. I''m feeling sad."

    His face literally screamed, ''I want hugs and kisses. Coax me.''

    Raelle kissed his head and said, "Stop ying the role of a miserable guy. It was your own fault. If you hadn''t been impulsive, you wouldn''t have lost your role. You have yourself to me for it."

    Shui Xian seemed to have not heard her words as he tapped his lips, "I wanted a kiss here."

    "Well, this is my way of telling you that we don''t always get what we want in life. So, we should be satisfied with what we are getting."

 Chapter 1188: [Bonus chapter] Really Loved

    Chapter 1188: [Bonus chapter] Really Loved"What are you both doing here?" asked Shui Koshing. "Aren''t we going? Why are you still dawdling? It must be you, Xian. Why are you wasting the time of my precious daughter-inw?"

    "B¨¤, my wife is willing to waste time on me," responded Shui Xian cheekily. "I think you won''t understand that."

    "Are you looking for a fight just because my wife isn''t here?" asked Shui Koshing. "Well, jokes on you, kid. My wife is always with me."

    Shui Xian raised his brow and even Raelle turned to look at Shui Koshing.

    Shui Koshing patted his chest.

    "She is in your pocket?" asked Raelle

    "She is in your heart?" asked Shui Xian.

    "Well, she is always in my heart but she is also in my pocket," was Shui Koshing''s answer as he took out his pocket watch and opened it to show them the photo of his wife lying inside.

    "B¨¤, that''s so old-fashioned,"mented Raelle.

    "But it''s romantic," added Shui Xian.

    Their remarks actually showed what kind of personalities they both had. It made Shui Koshingugh a little. These two were really a perfect match in a weird way.

    "Just go! I''m all dressed up already," said Shui Koshing hurrying them to get busy.

    "Yes, Sir!" Shui Xian left with that.

    But Raelle stayed behind and said, "That photo looks like a sneak shot, B¨¤. I didn''t think you were a stalker."

    Shui Koshing gave her a look and put his hand on her head saying, "Sometimes, we do things that are not like us for love. You''d understand that now very well. I also didn''t know that one day, I''d find my eyes looking for that one person in the crowd. No matter where I was. So, you can''t me me for acting like a stalker for once. It wasn''t intentional. We coincidentally met at the tourist spot and while taking pictures of the beautiful scenery, my camera lens found her smile more beautiful than the sea of clouds behind her."

    "I was right,"mented Raelle.

    "About what?"

    "Xian''s romantic soul doesn''t juste from his mother," said Raelle as she walked away leaving Shui Koshing looking at his pocket watch.

    He rubbed the old packet watch with a loving expression. It was the first gift he got from his wife. And that picture of hers that he kept inside of it, that one picture kept him going through a lot. He really couldn''t exin it all to these kids. But this one picture made him always forget all his tiredness and worries. How could he exin all that in words to anyone?

    He couldn''t even exin it all to that woman whom he loved more than he loved himself.

    "Uncle Sun, you don''t have to drive," said Shui Xian. "I''m the driver for tonight."

    The old driver gave him a look and then looked at Shui Koshing who nodded in response so he took a step back and gave the keys to Shui Xian.

    Shui Xian opened the back seat door for his father, "B¨¤, please get inside."

    Shui Koshing sat in the back seat and Shui Xian closed the door before opening the door of the passenger seat for Raelle but she didn''t sit there and walked around to open the door of the back seat to sit in.

    "Baby, you''re not sitting with me?" asked Shui Xian.

    "Aren''t you the driver tonight? Why would I sit with you?"

    Shui Xian was left speechless while Shui Koshingughed hard at their interactions. He didn''t think they had the ability to be a funny couple but now he thinks that they have some potential. Well, at least, it was better than being fed dog food all the time.

    Shui Xian fastened his seat belt and asked, "So, where are we going to y? Should we go bowling? No, B¨¤''s old bones won''t be able to take the toll for bowling."

    That earned him a smack on his arm from his father, "Are you having fun? How can you say that about your father?"

    "Am I wrong? Do you really wanna go bowling at this age? You''re really bad at it though. I think you should stick with golf. That''s your game."

    "We''ll go bowling. Yes! Bowling it is!"

    Shui Xian had a triumphant smile on his face as he said, "Okay. Then sit tight."

    Raelle took it all in silence and then said, "B¨¤, don''t let him manipte your thoughts. He is the one who wants to go bowling. He asked me that yesterday too."

    Of course, Shui Koshing also realized by now that he fell for his son''s childish tricks but whatever. "Forget it. I haven''t done bowling in so long. To feel young, one has to y the games of youth. So, I don''t mind. Besides, I really have nothing else on my mind. So, bowling is a good option."

    "See? I know my B¨¤," said Shui Xian.

    "Props should not have opinions," came Raelle''s voice. "Also, don''t forget to y your role faithfully and dedicatedly. Or else, I''d doubt your words from earlier."

    Shui Xian suddenly felt like he shot himself in the foot once again but there was no going back at this point. So, he couldn''t only act like the background and keep his words. He could be anything, but he could never let his wife feel like he was a liar who couldn''t do what he said. Words were everything. What credibility would he have if he didn''t keep his word?

    "Do you wanna call, Fai or Wai or Weimin out?" asked Shui Koshing.

    "Why?" asked Raelle.

    "Won''t it be fun with more people?"

    "It''s our date. It isn''t a family date," reminded Raelle. "We can take them out another time."

    Shui Koshing nodded his head, "That''s okay. Let''s fix everything first. Then we can even bring Justin with us to have fun. It''d be even better."

    Raelle looked at his joyous expression and asked, "B¨¤, you really want Justin toe too?''

    "Of course," said Shui Koshing. "Why wouldn''t I? Having Justin would be even better. Although it seems a bit weird with all adults with one kid, it also would show that he is loved by so many people. Don''t you think?"

    Raelle nodded her head, "Yes. He seems to be really loved already."

 Chapter 1189: Restless

    Chapter 1189: Restless"You might have to make a trip to the HQ," said Cloe. "Some matters need you to be there in person."

    "When?" asked Raelle.

    "Next month," answered Cloe.

    "That''s fine. I''m going to take Xian to see the ce I grew up in. So, I can spare some time."

    Cloe looked up at Raelle with aplicated expression.

    "What?"

    Cloe shook her head, "Lately, you put Shui Xian above everything. Even above work. I never thought I''d see this change."

    "That''s not entirely true," said Raelle. "Work is still very important to me. It''s just that so is my husband."

    Cloe smiled at that and nodded her head in agreement. "Anyway, it''s good if you can make time for this trip to the HQ. Let me know in time so I can prepare for it."

    "What about my new assistant?"

    Cloe paused, "Are you that eager to get rid of me?"

    "Yes," said Raelle.

    "That''s hurtful," was Cloe''s response.

    "You should be used to it by now."

    Cloe actually didn''t take her words seriously at all. She knew very well why she kept asking for the new assistant.

    "I''m not getting married so soon," said Cloe. "So, you''ll have to bear with me until then."

    "I''m giving you a chance to have more time with your boyfriend. You don''t appreciate the kindness of your boss? Have you ever met such a generous boss in your life?"

    "No, Chief," replied Cloe. "Of course, I haven''t met such a generous boss like you. After all, since the time I got into the workforce, I''ve been stuck with you. How would I be able to meet any kind of a boss?" She took a brief pause and added, "I''ve looked at the candidates. But I am not satisfied with any of them. I''ve put a few on probation for half a year. Let me train them and after that, I''ll do an assessment to decide who would get to be your assistant."

    "So serious?" asked Raelle.

    "I have to be thorough with this," said Cloe. "Also, Chief, you''ll have to be mentally prepared for having two assistants now. One will be your assistant secretary. Other will be your life assistant."

    "Why? Can''t one person handle it all like you?"

    "Not everyone is as talented as I am."

    "When did you be so full of yourself?"

    "If you stay close to ink, you get some ck color on you. And if you stay close to vermillion, obviously, some red will be on you too."

    "Are you saying, it''s my influence?"

    "What do you think, Chief?"

    "Get back to work," was Raelle''s response as she waved her off. Clearly, she was throwing her out of her office.

    "Ah! I almost forgot. Your brother is here again," told Cloe as she collected the files.

    "Oh," was the only response Raelle gave.

    "Don''t mind me asking but why is heing here every day? It''s been a week. And he doesn''t even stay until you get off work. Doesn''te in to talk to you either. He just sits in the waiting room with hisptop, does his own work, attract a lot of attention from the employees, and then leaves."

    "He is here to remind me every day."

    "What is he reminding you of?"

    "Guess?"

    "I don''t want to y." With that, Cloe left the office. But just as she entered her own office, she got a call from Raelle.

    "Ask Mr. Xiang toe inside," said Raelle.

    Cloe didn''t know what was going on between these siblings but she wasn''t all that curious too. Curiosity wasn''t always good for health. It was better to do what she was told. Eventually, she will learn about the matter anyway. It''s not like Raelle could hide it forever.

    Cloe went to see Xiang Weimin who was packing his things exactly at 5 o''clock like he did in the previous days. He didn''t even miss a second. He was always on the dot.

    "Mr. Xiang," she called out. "Chief is calling you inside."

    Xiang Weimin looked toward Raelle''s office and then turned to Cloe, "Really?"

    "Yeah," replied Cloe.

    He nodded and took his things to knock on Raelle''s door. As he opened the door, he found Raelle standing in front of the ss wall. Seeing him, she beckoned him inside.

    "Are you that restless?" she asked.

    "I''m not trying to rush you or anything," he said.

    "Really? Then why are you here every day? You''re lowering my employee''s work efficiency."

    "Am I? But I don''t bother anyone."

    "You being here is enough to bother people," said Raelle. "Sit down. And tell me why you''re here?"

    "I just came to work. Just a change of ce. Also, I also wanted to see where you work. Why? Can''t I do that?"

    Raelle gave him a look, "I don''t like people who don''t get straight to the point. I think I don''t need to tell you that."

    "I wasn''t lying though," he said. "I really did mean it when I said that I wanted to see where you work. And yes, I''m very restless but for several reasons. However, I feel a lot better when Ie here to work. I don''t even wanna enter the research center until everything is sorted out in my personal life."

    "Why? Your concentration is so bad that you can''t even work because something is on your mind. Are you sure you''re my brother? Should we do a DNA test?"

    Xiang Weimin gave her a smile that didn''t look like a smile and said, "This face is our DNA. Since I came to sit here every day, no one questioned what I am to you. Because this face was enough to tell them that I''m your brother. You still have doubts?"

    "With the way you''ve been acting, you can''t me me for having doubts now? Can you?"

    "Forget it. I don''t wanna discuss this anymore."

    "Neither do I. You''ve wasted enough of my time already. So, what are you here for, brother?"

 Chapter 1190: [Bonus chapter] Avoid The Topic

    Chapter 1190: [Bonus chapter] Avoid The Topic"Have you heard about the argument that had been going on in the family?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "About whether you should marry Tang Hebe or not?"

    Xiang Weimin nodded, "So you do know."

    "I do," she responded.

    "What''s your take on that?"

    "Does my take matter?" she asked. "It''s your life. Your take should matter. Why are you even wind up in this? Focus on your own thoughts. And also, aren''t you all getting ahead of yourself already? We still haven''t cleared anything with Tang Hebe yet. Let''s not be so forward now. Whether you wanna marry or not is out of the question. You should be asking if she will be willing or not."

    "No wonder, I didn''te in to see you all these days. Something told me that you''d dump a bucket of cold water on me."

    "Can''t help it. I''ve always been good at pouring cold water at people."

    Xiang Weimin shook his head at her.

    "Get up," said Raelle.

    "What? Why?"

    "It''s time to get off work," she answered.

    "Oh-okay," he responded and got up.

    He followed her out of the office and when he walked towards his own car, she followed behind him. Xiang Weimin gave her a look, "Why are you following me? Isn''t your car over there?"

    "Why? You can''t give me a lift? Haven''t heard about the concept of carpooling? It''s safe for the environment. Let''s do our little part for the safety of the environment. After all, it''s our own. We''ll have to save it from ourselves. Or are you waiting to save it from aliens? You think aliens had been a threat to us all these years? No, it''s always been us humans destroying the."

    "Just for a lift, you didn''t have to say so much," said Xiang Weimin and even opened the door for her, "Get in."

    Raelle jumped into his jeep and looked around at the interior. It was rare for her to travel in such vehicles. After all, even if she was low-key all her life, she still grew up in luxury. So, this jeep was rather not so luxurious for someone like her. It was considered ''normal''. And she was interested in this ''normal'' for a moment.

    Xiang Weimin looked at her behavior and didn''t find anything wrong with it. He had already seen the car collection that his aunt had. Compared to that, his Jeep was really shabby. No wonder, Raelle looked like she entered a whole new world but seeing her like that, he had a smile on his lips.

    She looked like a curious kid and was so adorable that it melted his heart.

    He sighed to himself mentally thinking about the years he had missed in her growth. And that made him even more determined not to miss out on another day in Justin''s life. He didn''t mind the status at all. He just wanted to be there for his son.

    Although his job won''t allow him to be around his son all the time, it didn''t stop him from wishing at all.

    "Take a right turn from the next interchange," said Raelle to him suddenly.

    Xiang Weimin frowned, "That''s not the way back home."

    "We aren''t going home," she replied. "We''re going to see your son."

    "Huh?" Xiang Weimin was dumbfounded. Thankfully, he was still a very stable andpetent pilot so he didn''t step on the brakes recklessly in the middle of the road to show the impact of those words on him. He still drove very stably but his eyes really described his mood.

    "Why? Don''t wanna see your son? You didn''t see him this week? Don''t you miss him?"

    "I do miss him," answered Xiang Weimin honestly. "I miss him a lot. In fact, from the moment I learned he is my son, I''ve been reying all our memories together. How we met and how we got close to each other instantly and so inexplicably. I''m still in disbelief that he is my son. But it''s undeniable too."

    "I can deny it. He is a lot cuter than you," said Raelle. "If I allowed him to stay with you, would he also be a silent gourd like you?"

    "So? You want me to leave him with you so that he can master your nk face?"

    "Or else? You want Wai to be with him?" asked Raelle.

    "No way! I don''t want my son to be a fool."

    "Does your sister know how high your opinion is regarding her?"

    "She knows," he answered. "I get to call her a fool. An idiot. And anything else since I have seen her worst. She can be such a crybaby. She really gave me a lot of headaches when she was younger. She''d either beat someone up for justice or bully the bully in their way. Even if she had the right reasons, she always did the wrong things. I always had to run behind her to wipe the mess for her."

    "I guess it''s our family''s tradition," said Raelle. "Brothers getting rid of messes for their sisters. You have learned it perfectly from your father. Isn''t that good?"

    Thinking about how his father did the same for his aunt Yan, it was really simr. No wonder everyone said Wai was like Aunt Yan. Both gave headaches to their brothers.

    "Well, at least, Aunt Yan never came crying because of a heartbreak to Dad and took him drinking for a night," said Xiang Weimin. "Wai is such a bad drinker but she still insists on drinking once she is in pain."

    "You lent her the shoulder that''s why she came to you. Why else would shee to you?"

    "I sometimes wonder what would it be like if the three of us could grow up together," hemented.

    Raelle didn''tment on that and said, "Take a left from here. Just go straight for a while now. We''ll reach there soon."

    Xiang Weimin sighed softly when she avoided the topic.

 Chapter 1191: Down The Building

    Chapter 1191: Down The Building"It''s so not like you to shy away from a topic,"mented Xiang Weimin.

    "I don''t shy away from anything," replied Raelle. "But I don''t like wasting my time talking about the past that would neither change nor will ite back. Why think about such pointless scenarios then?"

    "There you go again being real all the time," said Xiang Weimin. "I think I''d like to still think about such pointless scenarios though. Because I genuinely wonder what it would have been like if we grew up together."

    "Maybe you''d have hated me a little less."

    "I don''t hate you."

    "Not anymore."

    Xiang Weimin pursed his lips and spoke only after a moment, "I never hated you. Don''t say that again." He took a momentary pause and added, "You were always my little sister and will always be. I''m already happy that epted me as your brother."

    "When did I do that?" asked Raelle.

    "You''ve been calling me brothertely," Xiang Weimin pointed out.

    "And that got you so happy?"

    "You don''t understand. You remember where I first met Fai?"

    Raelle nodded her head and hummed, "You were buried in snow and he saved you from there."

    "He did," agreed Xiang Weimin. "He not only saved me but also became the bridge that led me to you. But that''s not what I want to talk about today. What I wanted to say is that when I was buried in the snow back then. I saw death so close but I wasn''t scared. I didn''t mind death at all. If there was a regret it was that I never got to meet you in person. Maybe that''s what Heaven heard and made Fai my lifesaver. It was a very unexpected moment in my life when I met you. But it was the scariest moment of my life too. I was very scared that you''d hate me."

    "I didn''t hate you though," she replied.

    "No, you were just your usual indifferent self. And that wasn''t any better either," he sighed to himself. "And now, once again, I''m scared in my life like I was when I met you for the first time."

    "Scared to face your son?"

    Xiang Weimin nodded his head, "How could I not be scared? He is young but he does understand some things. I missed out on his growth. If he asked me where I was all this time, I don''t know how to answer him."

    "There is no right answer apart from truth," was Raelle''s response. "At least, that''s been my go-to answer in life. Try it. I think it works all the time. Yes, the truth is hurtful that you didn''t even know about his existence but it''s still better than letting your son feel like you had abandoned him for so many years. Don''t you think so?"

    Xiang Weimin bit his lower lip and then looked at her through his peripheral vision. "I actually love talking to you."

    "Really? Why?"

    "I don''t know."

    "Brother..."

    "Hm?"

    "Most people don''t have memories from before the age of six. There are exceptions like you and I. But normally, kids'' memories that stay with them for years start after the age of six-seven. So, I don''t think you''rete. Justin is young and still needs you in his life. The best years of his growth are still ahead. You aren''tte. Don''t do the same as what your parents did to you."

    "Do you really not me them?" asked Xiang Weimin. "Our parents?"

    "No," answered Raelle. "I don''t y the me game."

    "Still... Did it nevere to your mind that you deserved better?"

    "I think I got better than you in life. Look at your shabby Jeep."

    Xiang Weimin''s lips twitched when he heard that.

    "I believe my Opa gave you the part of the inheritance that you deserved as the eldest grandson of the family. And not only that, he gave you your part from grandma''s inheritance too. Why are you so poor then?"

    Xiang Weimin gave her a look, "This is called being low-key."

    "Is it? I thought you were pretending to be poor. If someone asks, don''t say you''re Raelle Xiang''s elder brother. How embarrassing would it be?" Raelle''s eyes were looking out the window at the moving buildings and people outside.

    "It is indeed embarrassing," said Xiang Weimin. "My little sister is so rich and capable. I am really poor inparison. But on a serious note, I usually don''t drive. However, this Jeep isn''t that old either. It''s not even an old model. But I can understand why you are not putting it in your eyes. I might be the eldest son of the Xiang family, but I''m first a soldier too. I can''t be so ostentatious."

    "No wonder why I didn''t choose to be a scientist back then. Too many restrictions. You can''t even drive the car of your choice just because it won''t look good on your profile. What trouble!" She looked ahead and said, "Ah! Just drive into this society. And find a parking spot near building D1."

    "Got it," said Xiang Weimin and found the parking spot. As he got down the car and looked up at the building before him, he took a deep breath to calm himself down. "This is it?"

    "This is it," she replied. "Don''t faint."

    "I''m not that scared," he replied.

    "I''m still saying it to make sure that you don''t faint feeling anxious or excited. Actually, don''t get your hopes too high. Keep your feet on the ground. I know you''re someone who belongs in the sky but there is nothing wrong with keeping your feet on the ground."

    "My feet are always on the ground. Stable! I don''t just know how to fly. But I can walk very well too."

    "Good to know that," said Raelle. "Come, I''ll take you to see your son. Because I am such a good person."

    Xiang Weimin smiled at her words, "Yes, yes. My little sister is the best. There can''t be a more good person than her in this whole wide world."

    "That''s an exaggeration. The world is a big ce. There are almost 8 billion people on this. We all are one in a million. But that doesn''t mean no one is better than us out there."

    They took the elevator up and arrived at the door of Tang Hebe''s apartment. When Raelle was about to ring the bell, Xiang Weimin stopped her and said, "Wait. Just wait for a moment. Let me prepare myself."

    "What is there to prepare?"

    "We came empty-handed."

    "You just realized that?" asked Raelle. "Isn''t it toote?"

    "No, I can still go and get something," he said.

    "I don''t have time for that, brother," said Raelle. "Let''s not do it. If you''re so worried about basic etiquette. Then let''s not go today."

    "No," he stopped her from leaving. "I didn''t mean that. We are already here. We can''t leave now."

    "So? What now?"

    "Give me a moment to calm myself down."

    "You fought in real battles and you''re scared to see your son? Again, don''t tell anyone you''re my brother. I''d refuse to ept it."

    "Your brother is embarrassing. Deal with it. But do you think I want to be so embarrassing? I don''t. I still want to save some dignity in front of you too. After all, I''m the elder brother. I know, I''m ruining my own image but I can''t do anything about it. It''s my first time being a father or being faced with such a situation. I was trained for battles that can take my life but I wasn''t trained for emotional battles of life. It''s not my forte."

    "You think anyone is good at it in our family? Just go with the flow. I''m here. Aren''t I?"

    "You''re making me more nervous though."

    "Brother, I''ll leave if you continued this."

    "Fine. Fine. I''ll stop. Don''t leave. I have to see Justin today. Even if we don''t talk about anything, I just miss him. So, let''s see him before leaving. Damnit! I really should have brought something to the door. Aunt Yan will kill me if she knew that I came empty handed. Why didn''t you remind me?"

    "Brother, the best gift you can offer someone is your sincerity. So, offer a beautiful and sincere smile when the door opens. I think that''ll do the trick. Don''t fret or I might throw you down the building."

    Who knew the always stable Lieutenant Colonel who was about to be promoted to the ranks of Colonel after hisst merit was actually so shaken and confused when it came to his son? Raelle was seriously wondering if he''d be a good father or he might lose himself once seeing his son? After all, she could already see that he seemed to love his son way too much.

    Raelle rang the bell with these thoughts and finally thought about how to tell Tang Hebe everything. Yes, she came here on a whim. She had no n whatsoever.

 Chapter 1192: Difficult Situation

    Chapter 1192: Difficult SituationAs soon as the door opened and Tang Hebe came into Raelle''s view, her first thought was that they really shouldn''t have brought something. Coming empty-handed was really not good. But she wasn''t someone to get hung up on one thing, so she got over that thought very quickly.

    Tang Hebe was slightly horrified seeing Raelle at her door and to be very honest, her first thought was to close the door but she held herself back with thest speck of rationality left in her. She couldn''t be that rude or Raelle won''t let her hear the end of it for the rest of her life.

    "Hi!" Raelle waved at her with her exaggeratedly fake smile.

    Tang Hebe''s lips twitched and she almost rolled her eyes, "Hi to you too, Raelle! What are you doing here?"

    "Are you gonna ask all that at the door? Don''t you know basic courtesy?"

    Tang Hebe stepped aside, "Please,e in!"

    Raelle walked in without any hesitation but on the other hand, Xiang Weimin was a little embarrassed. He smiled politely at Tang Hebe who was actually stunned to see him here. She didn''t think Raelle would bring someone with her and that someone would be her brother. But then thinking about how Justin had been asking about this mantely, she didn''t say anything.

    "Sorry toe here unannounced," said Xiang Weimin.

    "Why are you sorry? Storms alwayse unannounced like your sister," she replied with a smile.

    She said it casually but Xiang Weimin''s focus was on how true those words were. Indeed, a storm came into his life unannounced too in the form of his son. Now, it was knocking at her door and she even opened the door to let in the storm. He could only silently pray for her soul right now.

    As soon as Raelle came, she found Justin sitting on the soft carpet as he yed with the lego set in front of him. But hearing the sound, he looked up and saw Raelle, he was stunned but then, he excitedly jumped up and ran to her with his short legs.

    "Pretty sister! You''re here to see me?"

    "How are you, little man? I am here to see you? Happy?"

    "Very," Justin replied in his milky sweet voice as he nodded his head vigorously. He looked behind her but saw no one and his face fell.

    "Looking for someone else?" asked Raelle. "Who are you looking for? Maybe I can help."

    Justin took a moment before answering, "You came alone?"

    "Was I supposed to bring someone with me?"

    He pouted with his small lips, "I thought your brother woulde to see me. He said he will. But he didn''te."

    Hearing the sound of the door closing, Raelle put her hand on Justin''s hand and said, "My family has a very interesting trait. We always keep our word." As she said so, she put her hand down and Justin was able to see Xiang Weimin. "So, how is it, little man? Don''t we keep our word?"

    Justin didn''t seem to be listening to her at all as he ran towards Xiang Weimin and wanted to hug his leg but Xiang Weimin picked him up instead making him giggle with happiness.

    "I just got ignored,"mented Raelle.

    "Ha! Serves you right!"

    Raelle looked over at Tang Hebe and said, "You also got ignored."

    "I seem to be getting used to ittely," replied Tang Hebe.

    "Tsk. It''s not good to get used to everything in life," remarked Raelle.

    "Yeah. That''s why I am still not getting used to seeing you at my ce," said Tang Hebe.

    "Is it just me or do you look very irritable right now?"

    Tang Hebe suppressed the displeasure in her heart and looked into Raelle''s eyes. She didn''t think she''d be able to see her irritability which she had been trying to hide.

    "Don''t like seeing me here? I can leave if you want me to."

    "No," Tang Hebe stopped her. "It''s not because of you."

    "Are you sure?" asked Raelle. "I really don''t mindingter if it''s not a good time for you."

    Tang Hebe shook her head, "Forget it. This is as good as my life can get." She breathed out and said, "Don''t just stand there. Sit down. Justin, stop bothering Mr. Xiang. Let him sit down. I''ll bring something to drink for you guys."

    "There is no need," said Xiang Weimin.

    "I''ll take water, sparkling!" said Raelle.

    Xiang Weimin gave his sister a look feeling that it was unexpected for Raelle to actually make such a request. But he didn''tment on it.

    When Tang Hebe went to the kitchen, Raelle looked at Justin, "You, little man, are you really forgetting all about me once you see your favorite person? Am I not attractive enough anymore?"

    "You are still very beautiful," replied Justin as he sat with Xiang Weimin.

    "Oh? I thought I was losing my charms. You don''t even look at me once you see my brother. Do you like him more than me?"

    Justin was put in a dilemma and didn''t know what to say. He looked at both of them with hesitation. He actually liked both of them. From the moment, he met Raelle, he found himself wanting to reach out to her. She was able to understand his words without him saying too much. She didn''t ask him to answer all her questions.

    But it was different with Xiang Weimin. He felt he had more and more inmon with this soldier. He loved listening to him and being with him. He loved it when he held him up in his arms. He was very patient with him.

    So, he really couldn''t choose whom he liked more. "Can I not choose?" asked Justin in a small voice. "I like you both."

    Xiang Weimin smiled lovingly at him and rubbed his head, "Raelle, stop putting him in a difficult situation with your tricky questions. He is too young for that."

    "I thought you wanted to make it up to me," said Raelle. "Is this how you''re gonna make it up to me, brother by taking not my side?"

    Xiang Weimin gave her a helpless look, he asked her to stop putting his son into difficult situations and here she goes putting him in a difficult situation.

 Chapter 1193: [Bonus chapter] All That

    Chapter 1193: [Bonus chapter] All That"Here is your sparkling water," said Tang Hebe as she gave Raelle the water. And then she gave a cup of coffee to Xiang Weimin saying, "Justin told me that you like ck coffee. So, here it is."

    Xiang Weimin smiled at her, "Thank you!"

    "Justin is a clever little boy,"mented Raelle. "You even found out all the likes and dislikes of my brother? Aren''t you very smart, eh?"

    "I''m smart," said Justin.

    "Oh?"

    "You said that," reminded Justin.

    Tang Hebe suppressed her smile while Xiang Weimin gave his son a proud look. Justin did have a way to talk to Raelle and it was very unexpected too.

    "Now I know what ''getting pped with your own words'' feels like," said Raelle. "Thanks for the new experience, little man!"

    "You are wee!"

    "Oh, you are getting cheeky!"

    Justin grinned at her without any restraint showing his tiny-tiny teeth.

    Tang Hebe''s eyes softened when she saw him acting like this. He was so much more livelier than she could remember. And she knew it was because of these two people who made him feel veryfortable. She knew that Justin was a sensitive kid. He had always been able to feel others'' emotions very clearly.

    She still remembered that when she first hired a nanny for him, he was so small but he always cried whenever the nanny tried to hold him. Later, she learned that the nanny wasn''t doing her job properly and had even pinched him whenever she got the chance. So, he would always cry around her.

    If people didn''t like him, he could always tell. Just like earlier when her mother came, he only said hello and then ran to hide in his room. He even locked the door and didn''t want toe out. Maybe he did feel the hostility her mother had towards him, so he went to hide. He only opened the door when she told him that the bad woman was gone.

    However, he was still in a very dull mood until Raelle and Xiang Weimin showed up.

    She didn''t know if Raelle was really her nemesis or the blessing. For so long, she considered this woman as her rival and now, the same woman was able to guide her son out of the loneliness and darkness that he was embracing slowly.

    "Don''t look at me like that," said Raelle. "I still look the same."

    "No," said Tang Hebe who was jolted from her daydream. "I think you look different after the engagement."

    "There is nothing different though," said Raelle.

    Tang Hebe shrugged, "What I can do if you can''t see it?" She looked at her drinking the water and asked, "You really don''t wanna have anything else?"

    "Water is really good enough," was Raelle''s response.

    "How boring!"

    "I asked for sparkling water so that you won''t say that in water is boring. And yet, it''s still boring?"

    "It''s boring. It''s still water."

    "If you wanna have a pointless argument with me just say so, don''t look for excuses here."

    "Who wants to argue with you? I don''t wanna go bald."

    "Oh, but you are already bald."

    Tang Hebe touched the hat she was hearing and red at her, "It''s a bald spot. I''m not really bald. Don''t get on my nerve here."

    Raelle didn''t say anything to her, she looked at Justin, "Little buddy, you wanted to show my brother your nts, no?"

    "Yes!" Justin jumped down the couch and held Xiang Weimin''s hand as he pulled him towards his personal space. Xiang Weimin looked at Raelle who gave him a nod and Xiang Weimin blinked and followed Justin out of the living room.

    "Now, that only you and I are here, how about we get real?" suggested Raelle.

    "Huh?" Tang Hebe was dumbfounded.

    "What''s up? Who made you upset?"

    "Can you even see that?"

    "Why can''t I?" asked Raelle. "I''m not blind."

    "You know my son is very good at seeing people''s emotions but I don''t think you have the trait. So, it''s surprising that you can tell what''s up."

    "I might not be very keen when ites to it but I have a sharp observation. I have studied human emotions all my life. Wouldn''t I be a failure if I can''t even read an open book like you?"

    "I''m not an open book," said Tang Hebe.

    "Are you sure?" asked Raelle. "Okay, if you say so. I''ll just believe you for now."

    Tang Hebe pursed her lips but still told her honestly, "My mother was here earlier."

    "That exins it," said Raelle.

    "What does it exin?"

    "Your crappy mood," answered Raelle. "But on a serious note, you still have expectations from your family? Why be so disappointed when you''ve been disappointed enough already?"

    "Isn''t that the thing?" asked Tang Hebe. "I thought I was disappointed enough but it turned out, I was wrong. My family could really let me down more than I ever expected. It''s funny that I still thought we were family even if I didn''t want to see them again. Now, I am starting to feel disgusted by the blood flowing through my veins."

    "That bad?"

    Tang Hebe nodded her head, "Yeah. That bad."

    "You''re really something,"mented Raelle. "I don''t know if I should I call you an idiot or..."

    "Yes, I''m a fool. I''m stupid. I''m an idiot. I''m all that. I won''t deny any of that. There is nothing wrong with your words. I really am all that. And maybe more than that too. I keep feeling like they can''t get any worse but they keep showing me what kind of extravagant hope I have to believe that they have a bottom line. Clearly, they don''t."

    "If you wanna cry, go ahead. I don''t mind."

    "Will you lend me a shoulder?"

    "No. But I won''t make fun of your tears either."

    Tang Hebe chuckled at her and slowly that chuckle turned into sobbing as her tears fell down. Raelle really didn''t make fun of her tears. She wasn''t that unempathetic either. But she really couldn''t bring herself to offer her shoulder to lean on.

 Chapter 1194: Growth

    Chapter 1194: GrowthRaelle just sat there looking around awkwardly not knowing what to do with this crying woman. Several times, she lifted her hand to pat her back but still couldn''t bring herself to do so. Forget it. She wasn''t exactly apassionate person, to begin with.

    Since Tang Hebe felt like crying, just let her be.

    It was a full ten minutester that Tang Hebe finally stopped crying and found a ss of water in front of her eyes. She first looked up at Raelle who held the ss of water to her. She had a veryplicated look in her eyes as she looked at Raelle. But that wasn''t something new either.

    Every time she met Raelle, she was always gettingplicated feelings for her. She had yet to realize what she even felt about this woman. But one thing was certain, to Tang Hebe, Raelle Xiang was super weird.

    "Thank you," she said to Raelle as she took the water. Her tone of voice had changed after crying so much. Her eyes were red and even her face was flushed right now. She held the water in both her hands and took a sip slowly to soothe the itch in her throat.

    "That''s all I can do for you," said Raelle. "I mean I don''t know how tofort you. But I can definitely pour water for you."

    Tang Hebe''s lips slowly curled up when she heard that from her. "You won''t ask why I cried?"

    "I''m not that nosy," replied Raelle. "I''m all ears if you do want to tell me but I''m not all that curious either. I''ll be fine if you don''t want me to know."

    "No, you should know," said Tang Hebe. "It has something to do with you."

    "Me?" asked Raelle. "How so?"

    "My mother came to see me today. Well, I was quite surprised to see her at my door. I didn''t tell anyone where I was staying and yet, I found her at my door. For a moment, I got my hopes up. That maybe, just maybe, she missed me and came to see me. But I was wrong," told Tang Hebe slowly, as she tried her hardest to stop her voice from cracking. "She didn''te to see how I was doing. In fact, she did try to act like she cared but her act didn''tst long. She came to ask me about Ruan Meilin. Can you believe it? It''s my mother. But she came to me to tell me to help her niece out of trouble. Hahaha!"

    Thatughter of hers didn''t sound very humorous to Raelle. It sounded more like she wasughing at her own stupidity for expecting too much from her mother. Or maybe, she didn''t expect all that much from her mother. She expected the least minimum. She just wanted her mother to care about her but instead, her mother cared more about her niece. How ironic!

    "Should I say I can''t rte to that?" Tang Hebe looked at Raelle who went on, "I don''t really understand what you''re feeling right now. Because I never went through it. I never had any expectations when it came to my parents. Or you can say, I never had many expectations in life in general."

    "At one point in my life, I envied you."

    "Now you don''t?"

    "Now, whenever I look at you. I get a very conflicting feeling," said Tang Hebe. "I understood that we all have our own problems and we can''t possibly tell which of us has it worse. So, I can''t envy you anymore."

    "I''m d you understand that," said Raelle.

    "Thanks for helping me understand that."

    "So? What did you say to your mother? You want to help Ruan Meilin?"

    Tang Hebe lowered her eyes, "If I say yes, would you agree?"

    "Whether I agree or not really doesn''t matter in this case," was Raelle''s answer. "After all, since the ident, I haven''t even seen Ruan Meilin. I hardly know what my Yanyan or what my husband did to her. So, you can''t look to me for help." She took a pause and added, "Why? Do you want to exchange your life-saving grace to help her?

    Tang Hebe shook her head, "No way! I almost died there as well. And you don''t owe me anything. What I did was for Xian. For the sake of our old friendship and whatever rtionship we shared. I did it so that I can feel less guilty about hurting him. You really need to stop bringing this matter up."

    "Did I tell you that you''re giving up on a big chance in life?" asked Raelle. "I''m Raelle Xiang. I can really do a lot more than you think."

    "I still don''t want anything from you," said Tang Hebe. "I don''t want you to help with Ruan Meilin''s matter either. My mother loves her niece so much that she doesn''t hesitate to hurt her own daughter, so just let her be. I''d like to see her in despair as she left me is despair by breaking my marriage. She yed me like a fool. So, why should I help her? I don''t wanna help her. So what if I''m called unfilial? I don''t give a damn about her opinion. It''s not like I have a workce where she cane to make a scene. At most, she cane to my apartment and if I got tired of seeing her face, I can easily move from here either."

    "Your views have changed in life,"mented Raelle. "I think the Tang Hebe who was in her early twenties and the one now who is entering her thirties are two very different people."

    "It''s called growth," Tang Hebe seemed very satisfied with herself as she said that. She loved thatment from Raelle too. Because it meant that Raelle was acknowledging the fact that she had made effort to grow up and she seeded. How could she not be happy about it?

 Chapter 1195: Come To Terms

    Chapter 1195: Come To Terms"Why are you really here?" asked Tang Hebe. "I have a feeling that you didn''t juste to see Justin today."

    "Intuition," remarked Raelle. "It''s quite spot-on."

    Tang Hebe took a deep breath, "So, you really have another purpose? What is it?"

    Raelle rubbed her nose, "If I say I came to hurt you?"

    "Hurt me?" asked Tang Hebe. "You alwayse to do exactly that."

    Raelle offered her a practiced smile that actually gave Tang Hebe chills.

    "You still wanna hear it?"

    "Yes," answered Tang Hebe. "I do want to know what your purpose is for being here today."

    "Let''s do it another day," said Raelle. "You seem sad enough already. Even if I like jabbing at you here and there, my purpose isn''t to break you down at all. So, let''s let it go this time around."

    Tang Hebe''s brows furrowed up in confusion. She didn''t think Raelle would actually not say her purpose just because she was sad already. She had to say Raelle was a thoughtful person.

    "Why wait?" asked Tang Hebe. "It isn''t all that new to me. And I''m not that sad either."

    "Then why did you cry a bucket just now?"

    "That can''t be helped," answered Tang Hebe. "It was myst desperation. I had to shed some tears to mourn it."

    Raelle tapped on the table as she looked at Tang Hebe carefully. She was considering her options at the moment. She didn''t want to rush or anything. She usually wouldn''t care so much but she could see the pain in Tang Hebe''s eyes right now. It really looked like she was mourning the loss of something.

    Maybe it was the loss of hope and expectations. Maybe it was the loss of her family. Whatever it was, it was truly hurting her right now.

    "When did you be so careful with your words?" asked Tang Hebe. "I don''t think you can hurt me more than I''m already hurt right now. Don''t worry about me. I think I still got some drive."

    "It''s not a good idea to act strong," said Raelle.

    "I''d still like to act strong in front of you. I''m already very weak when I stand in front of you."

    Raelle gave her a look, "You''re stillpeting with me?"

    "No. It''s just that it''s not a good feeling to see someone younger than me being stronger than me. It reminds me how useless I am. And I don''t wanna be that useless. Didn''t I tell you that before?"

    "Well, you asked for it," said Raelle. "Don''t tell meter that I alwayse for your throat."

    "Fine. Fine. I won''t me you," agreed Tang Hebe.

    "Do you remember I asked you once what would you do if Justin''s biological father came to you?"

    Tang Hebe''s body froze once she heard that question. She remembers that question. When Raelle made that hypothesis back then, she was so scared that she almost fainted. But surprisingly, this time around she wasn''t all that shocked. Maybe it was because Raelle had already prepared for this all. Because unconsciously, that question had been on her mind since the time Raelle brought it up.

    "You found his father?" asked Tang Hebe.

    Raelle nodded her head, "I did."

    "Who is it?"

    "Someone very unexpected," answered Raelle. "So unexpected that even I was a little taken aback."

    "That unexpected that it could shake Raelle Xiang?" asked Tang Hebe as she raised her brows in surprise. "Now, I''m even more curious. Who is this person?"

    "You''ve met him," told Raelle.

    "It''s so not like you to drag a conversation like this. Just get to the point. Who is it?"

    Raelle pointed towards her balcony with her chin and Tang Hebe''s eyes widened in shock.

    "Your brother?"

    Raelle nodded her head.

    "You mean, Xiang Weimin?"

    Raelle nodded again.

    "No way!"

    "Yes way," was Raelle''s response.

    "No," Tang Hebe shook her head. "How can this happen? How? How is it possible? That''s Xiang Weimin. I heard he is a Lieutenant Colonel in the Air Force. He is such an upright man. How is it possible that he had a son and abandoned him?"

    "He didn''t abandon him though," answered Raelle. "Now, remember I told you to suppose that the father doesn''t even know about the son?"

    Tang Hebe slumped back on the couch feeling drained. She didn''t cry or make a scene or anything. She just sat there in shock. What to think or how to react? There was nothing on her mind. Only, one sentence was ringing in her ears repeatedly, ''Justin is Xiang Weimin''s son. Justin is Xiang Weimin''s son. Justin is Xiang Weimin''s son.''

    It was like a mantra that was hypnotizing her.

    Raelle clicked her fingers in front of Tang Hebe who had even forgotten to blink.

    "You still here?"

    "I think so," replied Tang Hebe in a daze. "I''m just trying to process this information ande to terms with it."

    "How is that going?"

    "It''s very difficult for me to process it!" Tang Hebe almost screamed. "No. How it is possible? How can we go round and round and at the end, my son turned out to have the Xiang family''s blood in his veins?"

    "You have a problem with the Xiang family''s blood?"

    "Your focus is wrong here, Raelle! I suddenly feel like you''re meant to be my nemesis in this life."

    "Just this alone is enough to make you feel like we are nemesis? Why don''t you think positively? Maybe we are just meant to have such a fateful connection?"

    Tang Hebe gave her a look, "You''re the one talking about fate?"

    "Why? Is it that strange?"

    "Very." Before Raelle could say anything else, Tang Hebe held up her hand and said, "Please, don''t speak. Don''t say anything at all. Give me a moment of peace. I want to stay quiet. I want to think about it all in silence. Don''t disturb me. I haven''te to terms with it yet."

    "Okay," agreed Raelle and stayed quiet.

 Chapter 1196: Trusted

    Chapter 1196: TrustedRaelle sat there for a while, looking at Tang Hebe staring at a spot on the wall in a daze. She even followed her gaze to see what was so interesting on that wall. But obviously, she didn''t find anything.

    No, that''s not right.

    Actually, she did find something. The painting frame was a bit crooked on that wall and there were a few scratch marks on the corner of the wall too. It seemed some big furniture must have left those marks when moving things. Apart from that, she found that the color of the wall was not exactly white.

    Raelle noticed all these very unnecessary details but she still didn''t find what Tang Hebe found interesting enough to be so lost.

    "Can I talk now?" asked Raelle after five minutes of silence.

    "No," replied Tang Hebe.

    Raelle picked up her phone and found a text from her hubby, [Where are you?]

    Raelle answered back, [I''m at Tang Hebe''s ce.]

    [All of a sudden?] came Shui Xian''s response.

    [I do things suddenly] replied Raelle.

    [Did you take Xiang Weimin with you?]

    [Mhmm...]

    [Then... When will you be back?]

    Raelle observed Tang Hebe''s expressions and answered, [I think it''ll take a while. You eat first.]

    [What about you? What are you gonna eat?]

    [Just save something for me. I''ll eat it after Ie back.]

    Shui Xian was not very satisfied with this answer at all. He was frowning to himself unhappily. [Then I''ll wait for you.]

    [No. You eat first.]

    [How am I supposed to eat knowing that you didn''t eat? I might be okay eating alone but not when I know that you didn''t eat anything.]

    [Then who will apany, B¨¤?]

    [I''ll sit with him and act like I''m eating. Don''t worry. I won''t leave him alone. Besides, Amiah is here. I don''t think he''ll be lonely.]

    [Oh. Then do so. Don''t let him eat alone.]

    [I won''t! You juste back soon. I miss you!]

    Raelle didn''t respond to that and looked up at Tang Hebe again as she asked, "Are you done processing?"

    "No!"

    "You should change your processor. Why is it so slow?"

    Tang Hebe gave her a look, "Can you stop?"

    Raelle again had to put a lock on her lips and stay silent. So, she started checking if there were any unread emails that needed her attention but she found nothing. She put her phone aside. She couldn''t bring herself to scroll on the phone when she didn''t even have a social media ount.

    Then she stood up and went to look for Justin and Xiang Weimin. She found them before Justin''s carefully cultivated nts as Justin was telling Xiang Weimin the stories of how he got each nt and how he caredd for them all this time. It could be seen that he was very enthusiastic about sharing everything with Xiang Weimin who didn''t show any impatience and continued to listen with gusto. He was a good listener who even gave the appropriate reactions to make the speaker happy.

    Raelle couldn''t bring herself to ruin their moment so she stepped back and wondered what to do now? She couldn''t just wander around in the apartment either since it wasn''t her ce. It''d be rude to look around without the permission of the owner and she couldn''t do such a thing.

    In the end, Raelle found herself sitting opposite Tang Hebe once again and asked, "Are we there yet?"

    "I understand that your time is precious but can you please be a little understanding?" asked Tang Hebe. "This is a big deal to me. It''s almost life-changing news to me. Do you expect me toe to terms with it so soon?"

    "No," answered Raelle. "But I don''t know what to do. Give me a book or something. Then I won''t disturb your peace time."

    Tang Hebe gave her a look and asked suddenly, "Raelle, are you here to take my son?"

    "What?" asked Raelle.

    Tang Hebe''s eyes reddened as she added, "Please, don''t take him away from me. He is all I''ve got. Really, all I''ve got is him. I can''t lose him. I really can''t. I won''t be able to live. I beg you. If you want, I can get on my knees."

    "Stop," Raelle held up her hand. "What if I don''t?"

    "Then I''ll fight you!" said Tang Hebe.

    "When you have the drive to fight, why are you humbling yourself like this before me? Do you think I have a superiorityplex or something? Do you think I like seeing people lowering themselves in front of me? I don''t have such habits. Neither was I taught that all my life. My life principles doesn''t allow me to do so."

    "I just think if I can solve things by lowering myself, I''d choose to avoid the fight against you."

    "How scared are you of me?"

    "Very," answered Tang Hebe honestly. "How can I not be scared? You are Raelle Xiang. You have the power to fight against me. You can bring me down. I know that. I really can''t stand against you. I know that. But what I am most scared of is losing Justin. You know, I always lose who I love. I don''t want that to happen again. No way."

    Raelle could actually understand her desperation so she didn''t make it difficult for her and told her, "I''m not here to take your son from you. And I won''t do so in the future too."

    "Really?" clearly, Tang Hebe was in disbelief. She didn''t think it could be that simple. There was no way things could be so easy in her life. What price did she have to pay this time? She knew very well that nothing was free.

    "I promise," said Raelle.

    Tang Hebe was shocked to hear that. "You... What do I have to do in return?"

    "You think I''m here to negotiate with you?" asked Raelle.

    "Aren''t you?"

    "Just ept it when I am saying that I won''t take your son from you and I won''t let anyone else do so either."

    Tang Hebe was excited to hear that. She didn''t know about others but when Raelle said those words, she believed it wholeheartedly. She rushed to her side and held her hands in her own with tears brimming in her eyes, "Thank you! Thank you so much! You don''t understand what those words mean to me right now. I''m truly grateful to you."

    Raelle looked at her hands that touched her own and said, "Let go first before I change my mind."

    Tang Hebe chuckled at that. She knew Raelle won''t change her mind. She was the kind of a person who would never change her mind once she decided on something. But she still let go of her hands because she also knew she had stepped out of line by holding Raelle''s hands. After all, Raelle didn''t like physical touch.

    "I know you won''t," she said with a smile.

    "When did you start having so much faith in me?" asked Raelle. "Aren''t you gonna hate me now?"

    Tang Hebe shook her head, "I stopped hating you long ago. And I do have faith in you after understanding you during this period of time."

    Raelle waved her off, "Forget it. I won''t talk about it. Let''s get back to the topic. Why I''m here? Of course, it''s to let you know the truth. After all, you raised Justin. If there is anyone who deserves to know about his background, it''s you. I won''t wanna hide any of that from you. It''s unfair to you and I don''t do unfair things in life."

    "Oh, how great of you!"

    "No sarcasm!"

    "I''m serious though," said Tang Hebe.

    "Okay, can you stop crying first? I reallyan''t handle your crying twice in the past hour. I don''t even know how tofort. This time if you cried, I..."

    "You''re gonna what?"

    "I''m gonna make youpletely bald!"

    Tang Hebe red at her, "Can you stop bringing that up?"

    "I couldn''t think of anything else. It''s not like I can beat you."

    "Why?"

    "Because it''ll give Justin a bad impression of mine. How can I ruin my image as the mighty aunt. I still have to solidify my position and be the next generation Yanyan to my nephew, Justin."

    "You have quite some ambition,"mented Tang Hebe as she wiped her tears that fell down her face. "But I have no doubt that you''d be the next generation Yanyan to Justin. In fact, I believe that you''d be even better than that."

    "Really?"

    "Really."

    "Wow! It''s weird to be trusted by you all of a sudden," said Raelle.

    "I also never thought I''d trust you so much in my life but it can''t be helped. Who asked you to be such a good person?"

    "Don''t give a good person card. I heard it''s easy to be morally kidnapped when you''rebeled as a good person."

    Tang Hebe chuckled at that and stared at Raelle strangely.

 Chapter 1197 Consider It

    1197 Consider It

    Tang Hebe felt like whenever she met Raelle, their dynamic kept changing. Once, she got so irked by just the name Raelle and now, she could even joke around with her sofortably. She thought it was ufortable around Raelle, but the truth was, the more she met Raelle, the more she understood how easy it was to get along with her.

    At least, there was no need for pretense.

    "Did you find out everything rted to Chi Xirui?" asked Tang Hebe.

    "Firstly, her real name was Genevieve D''Amico," told Raelle. "It''s not that she lied to you about her names. Her Chinese name was Chi Xirui and her nickname was Jennie. So, in the end, no matter what name you choose to call her with is right. However, her birth name sure is Genevieve."

    "What else?"

    Raelle didn''t keep her in suspense and shared all the information without hiding any details at all. She didn''t think there was a need to hide anything from Tang Hebe. They had to let her know of the dangers since she was Justin''s guardian. She had the right to know and Raelle won''t deprive her of that right.

    By the time, she finished telling everything, Tang Hebe was sweating badly. It couldn''t be helped. She didn''t think there were so many twists and turns involved with that kind sister who helped her out of her depression back then. Neither did she expect she was running for her life and so many dangers surrounded her. Who would have thought that?

    However, after all of that, Tang Hebe''s attention was stuck on something else.

    "Xiang Ziyang?" she repeated softly. "You''re saying that''s Justin''s birth name?"

    "Yes," answered Raelle. "Why?"

    "The name sounds familiar," answered Tang Hebe. She looked up at Raelle and asked, "Do you think I forgot something very important after the ident? What if I knew all of this? What if I was supposed to bring Justin to his father? And I just forgot about it all? Or maybe I never intended to bring him to his father?"

    "I have never met someone who has so much self-doubt,"mented Raelle. "You can stop thinking. Don''t stress your little mind. What if it malfunctioned again and you ended up at the hospital? This isn''t the time for a hospital visit."

    Tang Hebe narrowed her eyes at her, "I''m serious here, Raelle. Don''t you have any doubts here?"

    "No," answered Raelle. "Okay, I ept that there is a high probability that you forgot something important. However, one thing is for sure. You knew nothing about Justin''s father. Chi Xirui wouldn''t make such an borate n to make you reach out to me if she had already told you about Justin''s father. And if she did, you wouldn''t take so long toe and look for me either."

    Tang Hebe clenched her fists, "Your trust in me is giving me goosebumps right now."

    "Feelings go both ways. If you have trust in my words, I need to reciprocate. Otherwise, wouldn''t it be too chilling? That''s not wiser for human rtionships."

    Tang Hebe stood up and went to get some water for herself again. She had already finished the water that Raelle offered to her when she cried. Now, she was feeling thirsty again. She took cold water from the refrigerator so that she could stay a bit sober and her mind would be more active.

    She couldn''t be so dazed when talking to Raelle Xiang. Who knew when this woman would dig a pit for you and make you want to jump in willingly? Well, that wasn''t an exaggeration. Tang Hebe believed that Raelle Xiang was very much capable of it. So, it was always wiser to stay sober and alert in her presence so as not to fall for any of her tricks.

    Raelle saw Tang Hebe drinking water like a restless kid. She couldn''t understand how this was a mature woman. She was supposed to swallow but she was actually keeping the water in her mouth with her cheeks puffed out. It actually made Raelle want to poke that cheek.

    "Are you lost again? Why are you so slow?"

    Tang Hebe gave her a look and swallowed the water. Then she wiped her mouth with the back of her hand. "I need some breaks. You know some time to buffer."

    "Your processor is the worst."

    "Tsk," Tang Hebe tsked at that. "You can''t possibly be here just to tell me about this, right? What else should I know?"

    "We would like Justin to recognize his ancestors," told Raelle. "And we''d like to know what you think about that.

    Tang Hebe was surprised. Well, not shocked that they wanted Justin to recognize his roots but she was shocked that Raelle was here to ask for her opinion. That was truly surprising.

    "And if I say no?"

    "Then I''ll have to use other means."

    Tang Hebe snorted, "So, in the end, I have no other option than to agree, right?"

    "No, there are options. You either agree when I am being nice or you''ll have to agree when I''m not being so nice."

    "There is a difference."

    "Big difference. I promise you, you wouldn''t wanna experience that difference. You just said earlier, things that can be solved with words should not be dragged to the point of force."

    "I''m pretty sure those weren''t exactly my words."

    "But the meaning was the same. Now, who asked you to be poor with yournguage skills?"

    Tang Hebe gave her a forced smile, "Well, who can be better than you when ites to speaking? Eloquence. I can''t learn it from you. I''m really no match."

    "I know," Raelle agreed with those words and added, "Anyway, I''m putting forward this request right now. I''ll give you the time to consider it thoroughly beforeing to any conclusion. But I''ll make it clear to you that this matter is extremely important to my family."

    Tang Hebe was so stunned by her words that she didn''t react for a good minute.

 Chapter 1198 [Bonus chapter] One Son

    1198 [Bonus chapter] One Son

    Tang Hebe never thought that one day, Raelle Xiang would put forward a request. She was requesting something from her. How unbelievable!

    "Big families do pay attention to their lineage,"mented Tang Hebe.

    "If you haven''t noticed, the Xiang family isn''t a big one. We are pitifully few and it had been like this for far too long. My Opa says our n had never been very blessed when it came to descendants. In every generation, having two kids was already considered a huge blessing. So, the fact that in my generation we are three siblings, exceeded so many people''s expectations. Most big ns didn''t even expect the Xiang family to survive until now. After all, they believe the more descendants, the more prosperity. But it had never been the case in our family. Opa says quantity doesn''t matter, quality matters. So, in our family, education is a big deal." Raelle looked at the Tang Hebe and went on, "I''m not trying to pressure you here. But I''ll still ce some facts in front of you to decide whether it''s a good decision for Justin to ept his roots or not."

    Tang Hebe crossed her arms in front of her chest leisurely, "Go ahead."

    "Firstly, we can protect him."

    "From what?"

    "From your family," answered Raelle and this answer made Tang Hebe''s eyes widen in disbelief. "You are wondering how do I know? I have told you, don''t underestimate my eyes. I see more than normal people. And you are a very easy person to read. A mother who doesn''t care about you came to ask you to help her niece. When you show your strong stance, she''ll move her ideas toward the person you love the most. You once went against her before. It was Shui Xian''s sake. What happened? That mother made you break Shui Xian''s heart with your own hands. So, if I was you, I wouldn''t underestimate the schemes of your mother. What do you say, Miss Tang?"

    Tang Hebe went silent in response. No, she couldn''t refute Raelle''s words. Because she did see the way her mother looked at Justin when she came and the way her mother looked meaningfully towards the closed door of Justin''s room before leaving wasn''t all that unnoticed by her either. She was a lot more guarded against her mother since she learned how she yed her like a fool.

    And Raelle struck right where all her fears resided. Yes, she was scared that Justin would get hurt because of her. She had a father who didn''t mind betraying his brother for profit and a mother who didn''t mind ruining her life just to avenge the insult her daughter gave her. How could it be possible to be at ease with such parents?

    In fact, for the first time, she wondered if it was a good idea for Justin to be with her. Was she protecting him or harming him? She really couldn''t understand it right now.

    "Hold it!" said Raelle and put a stop to her wandering thoughts. "I didn''t tell you this to put you in more self-doubt. I''m just reminding you that the world isn''t that peaceful. I''ll ept that you''re strong and have the will to protect your son. But one additionalyer of protection is never bad. And the Xiang family is not just that additionalyer of protection but also a strong support of yours and Justin in the future. Do you still want me to go on?"

    "No wonder people say you''re very good at negotiating. Your words are very tempting. I''d give you that," said Tang Hebe. "You can see through my fears so clearly and it''s still very creepy to me. Stop looking into my mind. It makes me feel vulnerable and also like a fool. I don''t wanna feel like that."

    "You can''t ask a person to put a blindfold on their eyes just because you aren''t able to hide your feelings in time. How is it my fault?"

    "It''s my fault. I know. But I''m just asking you to please, don''t voice out my fears like that, and make me feel even more vulnerable. Just let me be. Can you do that?"

    "Then can you let Justine back home?"

    "I didn''t say from the beginning that I won''t let him go back," said Tang Hebe. "In fact, it was never up to me. When Chi Xirui named him Xiang Ziyang. It''s very obvious what her intention was. She wanted Justin to recognize his ancestors. Why would I be on the way when it''s none of my business? I am not so muddled that I''d put my personal feelings above anything else. At least, not when ites to my son. I know very well that for Justin to have the Xiang family is the best. I can''t offer him the things that just the name of the Xiang family can bring to him."

    "Well, it''s not that absurd now."

    "But it is," said Tang Hebe. "I understand now how things work in this world. And that''s why I don''t take risks in life. Even if the scenario you painted never happen, I still won''t like to take any chances with my son. So, I really don''t mind him epting his roots. You can add his name to the genealogy but he is still MY SON!"

    "I told you before, he will always be your son," said Raelle. "We aren''t denying that."

    "And I can''t stay apart from him either."

    "We are not taking him from you," repeated Raelle.

    "I am just making it clear," said Tang Hebe. "After all, I only have one son."

    "We also have only this descendant," reminded Raelle. "Justin is the eldest of the Xiang family''s next generation. Do you understand what that means?"

    Tang Hebe didn''t understand how big families worked but she wasn''t a fool either to not know the importance of the eldest child in these families. She could only sigh at how things took a turn. She only came to repay Raelle for her life-saving grace towards Justin and his mother. How did she get involved with so much?

 Chapter 1199: Family Trait

    Chapter 1199: Family TraitTang Hebe suddenlyughed out loud making Raelle give her a nk look. Raelle actually thought this woman had lost her mind from the shock. But then again, she already believed that there was something wrong with Tang Hebe''s brain so it wasn''t all that surprising either.

    "What''s funny?" asked Raelle.

    Tang Hebeposed herself and told Raelle, "It''s like this. I''ve been thinking about making you Justin''s godmother. I''ve thought about it long and hard. Considering how he owes you his life, and how close he is to you, I really thought it was a good idea for him to ept you as his godmother. But I was struggling with this thought too. Since let''s be honest, you''re the trauma of my youth that I''m unable to recover from. You still make me feel very insecure. Perhaps even more than when I didn''t know you personally. I thought things look pretty from a distance only but you made me question that when we met. Although you''re full of thorns, you''re still a beautiful rose within. And apparently, Justin can only see your beauty while your thorns are negligible to him."

    Raelle didn''t interrupt her and let her speak her mind freely as she listened attentively.

    "But before I could decide to make you his godmother, it turns out, you''re his aunt. That''s a fateful rtionship! What a fate! I am speechless. You not only unknowingly protected him but you also gave him a hand to bring him out of his shell too. At this point, I don''t have a reason to even refuse. I can''t deny that Justin is your family''s son. I can''t deny that he has a very interesting connection with your family members too."

    "Indeed," agreed Raelle. "I did hear that blood rtionships can often have a mysterious connection. I didn''t understand it until I met Justin."

    Tang Hebe nodded her head, "I didn''t understand that either." She sighed to herself and added, "You have a green light from me."

    "That''s not enough," said Raelle.

    "Huh?"

    "Your opinion is secondary. I have to ask Justin too," reminded Raelle.

    "You wanna discuss this serious andplicated matter with a five-year-old?" asked Tang Hebe weirdly.

    "No, I wanna ask him if he was willing to ept Xiang Weimin as his father. Does he want a father? And if yes, then whether Xiiang Weimin fits his idea of a father or not."

    Tang Hebe was left stumped. She didn''t expect Raelle to say that. She came from a family where her opinions were always of no importance. Everything had to be decided by adults so she didn''t think Raelle would be looking for Justin''s opinion.

    "You really want to?" asked Tang Hebe seriously.

    "Why not? It''s his life. Why doesn''t he get the right to choose? Yes, he is young but he still understands some things. And yes, I will tell him the whole truth. Just not right now. That will affect his growth. But telling him that he has a father is not wrong. Don''t you think so?"

    Tang Hebe thought about it before nodding her head. "You''re the smart one here. If you say so, why not?" She took a pause and asked, "Are you gonna do it now?"

    "No," answered Raelle. "Isn''t his birthdaying?"

    Tang Hebe looked at the calendar and nodded her head, "Yeah. It''s next month. How do you know that?" Seeing Raelle''s nk expression, she smiled, "Right. How would you not know this information when you even got the life story of a dead person."

    "Exactly!"

    "You''re gonna tell him on his birthday?"

    "We''ll be throwing him a birthday party," told Raelle.

    "That''s what you nned?"

    "No, it just came to me spontaneously. In the meantime, since Xiang Weimin has more free time on hand, I''d like him to spend more time with Justin to allow them to bond and get closer."

    "They are closer enough. My son is ready to be his leg pendant. He even doesn''t wannae down from his arms."

    "Are you jealous?"

    "If you''re in my position. You''d be too."

    Raelle stared at her long and hard, "I didn''t think you''d react this way after learning the truth."

    "What? Did you think I''d scream and cry and make a scene?"

    Raelle nodded, "That''s it."

    "I might have done that if Justin''s father was someone else. But I don''t feel the need to do so when I know his father is from your family. I might not like you very much but I do trust your character. And a family that can cultivate a talent like you, can''t possibly be that bad. Right?"

    "So, you''re slow but notpletely out of your mind, eh?"

    Tang Hebe chuckled, "I''m trying not to lose my mind or panic. You saying that my son will still be mine and you''ll make sure of that means a lot to me." She took a breath, "For now, I''ll just think that Justin has more people to love him, care about him, spoil him, and protect him. How could it be bad? I don''t see anything bad. What hecks is people in his life who genuinely cares for him. How could anyone be better than his own blood rtions?"

    "I agree," said Raelle. "We won''t just protect him. But you too." Tang Hebe''s eyes widened a little as Raelle went on, "We can''t let anything happen to you now, can we? So don''t worry about your family. You don''t have to concern yourself about Ruan Meilin''s matters too. It has nothing to do with you and I''ll make sure no one disturbs you for it too."

    "What is this? Why does it feel so strange to be protected by someone? I suddenly feel very safe? Are you enchanting me or something here? Why are your words so convincing? You can be a con artist, I tell you. You can even tell lies so convincingly."

    "I don''t lie."

    "I meant if you try to."

    "I don''t wanna try to lie either."

    "Stubborn!"mented Tang Hebe.

    "Thanks. That''s a family trait."

 Chapter 1200: See You Tomorrow

    Chapter 1200: See You Tomorrow"Brother, let''s go back now!"

    Xiang Weimin brought Justin back inside and found that Tang Hebe was scrutinizing him. For some reason, he wasn''t veryfortable with that scrutiny. But he tried not to show it either.

    "Are you done talking?" asked Xiang Weimin to Raelle.

    "Yup."

    Xiang Weimin raised his brows at her inquisitively waiting for her to borate but Raelle didn''t even more. Xiang Weimin wanted to roll his eyes at his sister right now who refused to say an extra word sometimes. "What else?"

    "Oh, you''ll take Justin out to y tomorrow. And you''lle to see him every week at least three times."

    Xiang Weimin frowned at her words.

    "What? Don''t want to?"

    "I didn''t say that. I''m just trying to understand what you''re trying to achieve by doing this."

    "I didn''t think you''d be so slow too,"mented Raelle and ignored him. Instead, she looked at Justin and asked, "Little man, would you like to go out with my brother tomorrow to y?"

    Justin first looked at Xiang Weimin and then at Raelle. Finally, his eyes set on his mother. Tang Hebe saw the excitement in his eyes. She almost couldn''t believe it but she still gave him a nod of encouragement.

    Justin nodded his head, "I want to go."

    Xiang Weimin was obviously happy to hear that and asked, "Where do you wanna go?"

    Justin thought about it before saying, "Aquarium?"

    "You wanna see fish?" asked Raelle. "That''s boring."

    "It''s not," said Xiang Weimin. "I''ll take you to the aquarium. What else? Where do you wanna go? I''ll take you everywhere."

    "Can I go to an amusement park?" asked Justin in his milky voice.

    Tang Hebe was shocked to hear him say that. When did her son start being interested in such crowded ces?

    "But there are too many people there," added Justin as he pursed his lips. And hearing that, Tang Hebe breathed a sigh of relief. Thank God! It was still her son and not a doppelganger. For a moment, she was scared.

    "That''s okay. If you wanna go to the amusement park. This aunt of yours will book the whole ce for you. My brother is poor. I am not."

    Xiang Weimin took a deep breath and said through gritted teeth, "I''m not poor, Raelle."

    "It''s okay, brother! No shame! I won''t look down on you."

    Xiang Weimin really rolled his eyes at her and Justin said, "That''s rude. You can''t roll your eyes like that at people. That''s very rude."

    "Tsk. Even a kid understands that."

    Xiang Weimin decided to ignore Raelle and said to Justin, "We''ll go to the aquarium tomorrow. Then we''ll n for the amusement park. Don''t worry. There won''t be a crowd to get in your way."

    "Okay," Justin agreed readily. "Momma, would you go with us?"

    Tang Hebe rubbed his head lovingly, "No, baby. You go and enjoy yourself. Momma will wait for you at home."

    "Oh." He took a moment and asked, "Would you be okay being alone at home? You''re still sick."

    Tang Hebe''s heart melted seeing the care of her son and she said, "I am not sick anymore. And Nanny Mi will be back tomorrow to be with me. Besides, it''s been days that I''ve been at home. Momma should do something to get busy, no?"

    "Okay."

    "You''d be a good boy and won''t disturb..." Tang Hebe wanted to say ''uncle'' but remembered that would be wrong. So, she changed her words, "Just don''t bother others."

    "I won''t. I''ll be a good boy."

    "You are my good boy!"

    Xiang Weimin saw the interaction between them and had a small smile ying on his lips. Raelle walked up to his side and whispered, "You''re thinking about marriage?"

    "Shut up, Raelle!"

    "That''s not a way to talk to your younger sister!"

    "Who asked you to annoy me so much? When did you even be like this?

    "I''m just asking. Genuinely curious."

    "I don''t have that n."

    "Okay," said Raelle.

    "By the way, what did you say to her?"

    "We just agreed to let Justin recognize his ancestors. Don''t worry. You''ll be the father. First, just cultivate feelings for him. We''ll talk to him on his birthday. That reminded me, you better start nning the birthday for your son. You''ll be the one to do it without anyone''s help. It''s your job."

    "I don''t want anyone''s help," replied Xiang Weimin. "I''m more than happy to do something for my son."

    Xiang Weimin didn''t mind that he had to wait to tell Justin everything. He was okay with the wait since Tang Hebe knew everything now and even epted it all. She also didn''t mind letting Justin recognize his family. So, the rest was a matter of time. Besides, he totally agreed with Raelle''s n to first cultivate feelings with Justin before asking him what he thought about having a father.

    Haste makes waste.

    They couldn''t just shove everything at the little kid all at once. That won''t be fair.

    "Then I''ll see you tomorrow, champ!" said Xiang Weimin.

    Justin was reluctant but thinking that they''d see each other tomorrow, he agreed and nodded happily, "I''ll be ready."

    Xiang Weimin rubbed his head.

    "Then we should leave now," said Xiang Weimin.

    "Won''t you stay for dinner?" asked Justin. "Momma, are we not keeping them for dinner?"

    "They don''t wanna stay for dinner," said Tang Hebe.

    "We''ll have dinner with you another day, little buddy," said Raelle. "Tonight, we don''t have that n. Besides, your Nanny Mi is on leave. We wouldn''t wanna tire your sick mother now, right?"

    "Right," Justin agreed with that solemnly. "Then I''ll invite you to dinner another day. You can''t refuse then."

    "You ask for my life, I''ll even offer that to you."

    "I don''t want that," said Justin.

    "Stop talking nonsense to him," said Xiang Weimin to Raelle. "We are leaving. You take care of yourself."

    "I will."

    "Take care of your mother too," added Xiang Weimin.

    "I definitely will," replied Justin.

    "Good boy!"plimented Xiang Weimin.

 Chapter 1201 Crying Brings Trouble

    1201 Crying Brings Trouble

    The first thing Cloe heard was the sound of crying when she entered the door which startled her. She looked at Cui Xukun who was standing beside her with an inquisitive look but Cui Xukun was also baffled and didn''t know what was going on here.

    Lately, Cloe spent most of her free time with Cui Xukun and that meant her visits to Soren''s house have increased too. Not because she was getting closer to her old friend, Soren. But because this friend Soren had such adorable kids Cloe couldn''t resist them.

    And they were here again to Little Sammy and Xena. But who knew they''d be given a shock as soon as they entered?

    "Let''s go in first to figure out what''s going on," said Cui Xukun calming himself and his girlfriend at the same time. You know he wasn''t as calm as he pretended to be because he recognized the voice. It was his sister who was crying and it was piercing his heart right now.

    He loved his sister Cui Xuqing so much, how could he be calm when his sister was crying so heartbreakingly? He had never heard his sister crying like that. No, it''d be right to say that a woman like Cui Xuqing who was known as an irondy didn''t shed tears uselessly. She wasn''t the type to break down easily.

    So, that meant something serious happened to make her break down like this. Just thinking about the possibilities made him sweat in fear.

    He walked inside and found Little Sammy and Xena hiding behind the wall as they peeked into the living room from where the sound of crying wasing from. Cloe ced her hand on Sammy''s head who looked back and his worried eyes brightened up. He tugged to make Cloe lean down as he whispered, "Don''t make a sound. Mom and Dad are in a very strange situation."

    "Are they fighting?" asked Cui Xukun.

    Sammy shook his head, "No. It doesn''t seem like a fight. It seems more like a one-sided beating."

    "Huh?" Cloe raised her brow at him.

    "Look," Sammy pointed at his parents.

    Cloe also peeked inside and found that Sammy wasn''t wrong. It was truly a one-sided beating. And the one being beaten was Soren while Cui Xuqing kept crying and hitting him with the cushion as she repeated, "It''s all your fault. It''s all your fault!"

    She was sitting on the sofa while Soren was on his knees on the floor right in front of her.

    Soren didn''t even resist for a moment but kept trying to calm his wife, "I know. I know it''s my fault. But wife, can you calm down? It''s not good for your health. It''s really not good for your health. What if you hurt your wrist? Don''t be impulsive. And stop crying. It''s hurting me more seeing to cry like this."

    "Do you even care about me? If you did why the hell did you do it in the first ce," shouted Cui Xuqing.

    "It wasn''t my intention. Believe me!"

    Cloe found this situation rather... bizarre. No matter how she looked at it, it didn''t seem like a fight to her. Even though Cui Xuqing was hitting Soren, there was no force applied. And Cui Xuqing didn''t look all that angry too.

    Cloe had a habit of observing beforeing to a conclusion like Raelle but Cui Xukun was hot-headed. He didn''t care about the minor details as he strutted in and pulled up Soren from the ground and punched him in the face. "How dare you hurt my sister? Didn''t you promise to take care of her for life? How dare you let her down? How could you cheat on her?!"

    Soren licked the blood off his torn lip and stared at Cui Xukun as if he was looking at a fool.

    "I kept my promise," he replied. "When did I cheat on her? Which bastard said it?"

    Cloe soothed the kids who were worried seeing their father hurting and wanted toe in. They didn''t bother when their parents were having their ''fight'' but they really wanted to go in to get justice for their father but Cloe stopped them.

    "You both should go upstairs to your room," said Cloe.

    "Auntie, daddy didn''t cheat on mom. It''s impossible," said Sammy.

    "Yes! Impossible!" agreed Xena with her brother and repeated after him like a parrot. She was really her brother''s little tail.

    "I know," said Cloe. "I know Soren very well. He can never cheat. I understand that. It''s your uncle who is making a scene. You both don''t get involved in adults''s matters. Just go up and do your own thing. I''ll handle it here."

    "But mom is crying."

    "I''ll solve it."

    Both the siblings stayed silent for a moment before agreeing with her. They still had trust in this aunt. So, they listened to her and went up. After all, their parents wouldn''t want them there either.

    "You''re still denying?" Cui Xukun raised his hand to hit again but Cui Xuqing held him back.

    "Why are you so reckless? Who told you to hit my husband? Is this what I taught you? Is this the way to respect your elders? It''s your brother-inw. Do I need to remind you of that? How did he treat you over the years? Who gave you the right to touch him? Who gave you the courage?!"

    Cui Xukun was deted when he saw his sister defending his brother-inw. Wasn''t he doing that for her? Why was he the one being disciplined?

    Before he could say anything, Cloe came to his side and said, "You are really hot-headed. Do you even understand the situation? Does it even look like Soren cheated on your sister? If it had happened, don''t you think your sister would have already kicked his ass? Do you think your sister can''t fight for herself?"

    "Even you''re scolding me? What did I do wrong?" Cui Xukun really felt wronged right now. No one was on his side. Neither his sister nor his girlfriend. Why was he so pitiful?

    "Are you feeling wronged?" asked Cloe. "Did you ask Soren how he is feeling? You just used him Cui Xuqing chuckled, "We don''t have a washboard."

    without any basis. Even when you know very well how much he loves your sister." She bumped his shoulder and pointed at Soren and Cui Xuqing. "Does that seem like he cheated on your sister?"

    Cui Xukun looked at them and was baffled. Cui Xuqing touched Soren''s torn lips and asked in distress, "Is it hurting? Painful? Why didn''t you dodge? Don''t you know how to move? How can you just stand there and take the beating? Are you an idiot?"

    Soren looked at her dotingly and said, "It doesn''t hurt as much as seeing your cry like that. Will you please stop? I was wrong. I ept that. But don''t hurt yourself like this because of my mistake."

    "It''s not your mistake," said Cui Xuqing. "I''m just a little too emotional. Sorry for hitting you."

    "It doesn''t hurt at all. If you want, I''ll kneel on the washboard for you."

    Cui Xuqing chuckled, "We don''t have a washboard."

    "I''ll find one," he said in response.

    "There is no need for that," said Cui Xuqing.

    "So, I became the bad guy here?" asked Cui Xukun in confusion.

    "Yes," replied Cloe. "This is why you shouldn''t get involved when a couple is fighting. Or you''ll be the bad guy. And in the case, you are really wrong."

    "Sorry, brother-inw," said Cui Xukun. As long as he was quiet, they ignored his existence but as soon as he spoke up, it reminded Cui Xuqing that the culprit was still here.

    She looked around and when she could find anything, she took off the slippers from her foot to hit her brother. Fortunately for Cui Xukun that Soren held her back saying, "Let''s not use that. Cloe is here too."

    Seeing Cloe, Cui Xuqing reluctantly put down her slipper but still red at her brother, "Tell me? Are you a fool? I thought you changed your habit of having such a stinky temper. What is wrong with you? Without clearing anything, you still hurt my husband?"

    "Sister, I did it for you. You know how much I love you. How can I see you crying? It broke my heart. The blood rushed up to my head and I couldn''t think."

    "You think that''s a good enough excuse for you to start a fight? I''m so disappointed in you right now, Cui Xukun!"

    As Cui Xuqing used his full name it actually made Cui Xukun shudder in fear. You see, he had been disciplined by his sister growing up and the fear of her was deep rooted in his bones. Just like how the love for his sister was soaked in his bone marrow.

    "I''m sorry, sister," said Cui Xukun. "I didn''t mean it."

    "Your sorry is not very helpful right now," said Cui Xuqing angrily. She had long forgotten to cry by now. Who cared about crying when her husband was being wronged by her own brother? Besides, this situation came because of her crying. She tsked to herself. Crying never helped it only brought more trouble to her.

    eed 2 tickets to climb the Golden Ticket rankings. Let''s win together! My current Monthly Golden Ticket ranking is No.27.

 Chapter 1202 Get A Test

    Chapter 1202 Get A Test

    Cloe was the calmest person in this whole situation. That''s why, she stepped up to stop all of them from arguing. "Can you all stop? Let''s not be so emotional right now."

    Soren was the first one to agree with her, "I agree with that. We need to stop."

    Cui Xukun gave his sister an aggrieved look, and even though Cui Xuqing was feeling bad for scolding her baby brother but she would never allow him to hit her husband. That''s why, she hmphed and looked away which almost brought Cui Xukun to tears.

    Cloe''s lips twitched when she noticed it all while Soren rubbed his temples.

    "Sister Qing, don''t worry about Soren. I don''t think Xukun''s punch can hurt Soren."

    Cui Xuqing looked at Cloe.

    "Really. This torn lip is nothing to him. This was very normal for him back in the days."

    Soren hurriedly pulled Cloe away saying, "There is no need to expose my bad history to my wife at this time."

    "She doesn''t know?" asked Cloe.

    "No!"

    Cloe raised her brow at him, "She really doesn''t know what kind of a personality you had in your rebellious years?"

    "I was always good. Stop talking nonsense."

    "Okay," agreed Cloe and decided not to expose him, just for old times'' sake. Instead, she turned to Cui Xuqing, "Can we discuss why you''re crying? What''s wrong? We can sit down and talk about it. Arguing won''t help, and neither will crying. So, let''s do the talking."

    Cui Xuqing''s was attention brought to the original topic and that made her re at Soren who instantly fell on his knees again and said, "I know I''m wrong. If you say, we won''t have it."

    "You wanna kill our child?!" shouted Cui Xuqing.

    "No. No. I said if you don''t want it."

    "How can you even say that?"

    "Child..." repeated Cloe to herself before asking, "Are you pregnant again, Sister Qing?"

    Cui Xuqing pursed her lips and nodded her head.

    Cui Xukun was baffled, "Sis, you''ve been crying because you''re pregnant?"

    "Why? Can''t I?"

    Cui Xukun''s lips parted but nothing came out. What could he say? He suddenly felt guilty for hitting his brother-inw. But the me was on these two people who were speaking in riddles and made him misunderstand the whole situation.

    In what world would a husband get on his knees to apologize for getting his wife pregnant? What was wrong with his sister and brother-inw? He felt really sympathetic towards his brother-inw once again who had been under his sister''s strict control. The poor guy even had to apologize in this situation. Did it even make sense?

    I''m pregnant. The point is that I''m pregnant AGAIN! Do you understand? AGAIN!!! As if giving birth to twins wasn''t hard enough "So, you both couldn''t find a reason to fight so you started fighting because of this? Who does that?" asked Cui Xukun.

    Cui Xuqing red at her brother, "So what? The point is not that I''m pregnant. The point is that I''m pregnant AGAIN! Do you understand? AGAIN!!! As if giving birth to twins wasn''t hard enough for me. You want me to go through that again? I don''t want to." She turned to Soren and gritted out, "You promised we won''t have another child. You did it on purpose."

    "I told you, I didn''t," said Soren.

    "Are you both looking for something to spice up your boring married life?" asked Cloe. "I can''t think of a reason why this is an issue."

    "Do you have a kid?" asked Cui Xuqing.

    "No."

    "Then you don''t get to give an opinion here," said Cui Xuqing. "Childbirth is painful. And raising children is a headache!"

    Soren tugged at Cloe''s shirt and said, "Don''t pay attention to her. She isn''t the one talking right now. It''s her emotional rage. She doesn''t mean any of it."

    "Oh, I can see," said Cloe. "Don''t worry. I won''t misunderstand anything here."

    "But sister, you have such adorable kids already. Imagine, the third would be even cuter. How beautiful would that be."

    "You want to imagine, do it alone. Don''t drag me into it," said Cui Xuqing clearly looking very pissed right now. "I like number two. Why does the third one ising?! Why?!"

    "Right," said Cloe. "Two is family. Three is a crowd."

    "What the hell are you talking about here? How can you even say that?"

    "Didn''t that what you meant, sister Qing?"

    "No! I just... I just am not able to ept that I''m having another child. That doesn''t mean I hate it."

    "Oh. Is that so?"

    Soren gave Cloe a look asking her through his eyes to not make it worse.

    "How far along are you?" asked Cloe.

    "I don''t know," replied Cui Xuqing.

    "You didn''t go to the hospital to check?"

    "No."

    "Then how do you know you''re pregnant?"

    "I did the test at home."

    Cloe didn''t know what to say. "Then don''t you think that we should first go to the hospital to get a proper check-up?"

    "I also think so," said Soren.

    "What do you both mean? That pregnancy test is wrong?"

    "That too. You can''t guarantee that it''s always right. And secondly, even if you''re pregnant, you need to get a proper check-up to see how far along you are and how is the baby. What if you crying so much affected the fetus? We can''t take that risk."

    Cui Xuqing stood up and pulled Soren, "She is right. Let''s go to the hospital. Right now!"

    Soren agreed without any hesitation and took her out forgetting all about Cloe and Cui Xukun. Behind them, Cui Xukun looked at their backs and then looked at his girlfriend, "Are we following them?"

    "Why? It''s their business. We came to see Sammy and Xena," was Cloe''s response. "Let''s not waste our time with them." Seeing how Cui Xukun kept staring at her, she asked, "What? What is it?"

    "I''m just wondering if you''d also cry if we got pregnant."

    "Are you in a hurry?"

    "Yes," answered Cui Xukun. "I''m in a hurry. So, shall we?"

    Cloe pushed him away, "Don''t stick to me. It''s hot already."

    "At least make a better excuse. We are sitting under the air conditioner," said Cui Xukun in dissatisfaction.

    "What are we here for Kun?"

    "To see Sammy and Xena."

    "Then let''s not talk about anything else. We can discuss thister."

    "You mean we can work on the baby when we go back home?"

    "Uncle, Aunt, are you having a baby?"

    Cui Xukun froze when he heard the voice of his nephew from behind while Cloe pped his arm, "See? This is why you need to control this mouth. Don''t talk nonsense in front of the kids."

    Cui Xukun felt wronged. How was that nonsense? Weren''t they just nning their future? How could they not talk about kids when ites to the future? But he didn''t dare to refute her words either. He knew that won''t be good for his health. If he said another word at this time, much less getting in her bed, he might even get thrown out of the house!

    "No, we are not having a baby," said Cloe to Sammy.

    "Really?" asked Sammy.

    "Yeah. Really."

    "Oh. How sad!"

    "You''re sad? What are you sad about?" asked Cloe.

    "I thought I''ll get a little brother to y with," said Sammy.

    "Why can''t we get a little sister to y with me?" asked Xena. "I want a little sister."

    "But I want a brother," said Sammy.

    "Sister!"

    "Brother!"

    "Sister!"

    "Brother!"

    "Guys! We are not having a baby." Both Sammy and Xena fell silent in depression. And then Cloe added, "But even if Aunt and Uncle aren''t having a baby. Maybe your mom and dad have one?"

    "NO!" said the twins simultaneously.

    Cui Xukun had expected this reaction from his niece and nephew but it was unexpected for Cloe. They were so excited for her having a kid but their reaction took such a turn when it came to having their own brother/sister? What was that?

    "Why?"

    "We are enough to give mom and dad a headache," said Sammy.

    "Having another one will really tire them out," added Xena.

    "What a high sounding reason. Why don''t you just say that you don''t want to share mom and dad with another baby?"

    Sammy and Xena looked at each other but refused to ept this reason. Even if that was true.

    "You both aren''t as cute as I thought." Cloe shook her head at them, "Why did you guyse down?"

    "To see if mom stopped crying."

    "She stopped crying. She went out with your dad."

    Sammy looked at his sister, "See? I told you once dad takes her out, she''ll be fine."

    Xena pouted her lips and then looked at Cloe, "Aunt, I''m hungry."

    "You didn''t have lunch?"

    "Dad was busy coaxing mom so he forgot to make the lunch," said Xena. "And the cooking auntie doesn''te on the weekends because mom or dad would cook on the weekends."

    Cloe took her hand and took her towards the kitchen, "Okay, I''ll make something for you. Right now. Let''s go and tell me what you want to eat."

 Chapter 1203 Being Spontaneous

    Chapter 1203 Being Spontaneous

    "So, is she pregnant?" asked Raelle as she looked at Cloe who was telling her the story of how she went to Soren''s house and encountered such an exciting situation.

    Cloe looked at the menu screen in front of her and asked, "What do want to drink?"

    "Whatever," replied Raelle. "Don''t change the topic."

    "Let me order first," said Cloe and turned to the attendant as she ordered, "One iced caramel mhiato and one pumpkin spicette. Thank you!" After ordering she turned back to Raelle and told her, "So, it turns out. She isn''t pregnant."

    "So much drama. All for nothing in the end?"

    Cloe chuckled at her words and nodded, "You can say it was all for nothing."

    "Wasted so many tears over this. Tsk. What a loss for Cui Xuqing," said Raelle.

    Cloe didn''t think she''d react this way. In fact, she didn''t think Raelle would even be interested in listening to all of this. But she really wanted to share so she pulled Raelle out of the office to get something to drink.

    Cloe took their order and went to sit with Raelle at an empty table. Raelle took a sip of the iced caramel mhiato that she ordered for her and said, "So, was she thrilled to know that she wasn''t pregnant?"

    "No. She was so disappointed," replied Cloe. "I mean seeing how she was crying, one would think she was very against the idea of having another kid but when her conjectures didn''te true, she was so bummed. Just looking at her, I felt sad. But one person was having it even worse."

    "Soren."

    Cloe nodded her head, "Yup. It''s him. I think if I wasn''t at their home, he''d have literally cried because they couldn''t look forward to another kid."

    "They can just n for another child," said Raelle.

    "But that''s the thing. They aren''t actively looking for another kid. But if it was true this time, it was considered an ident and they''d just go along with."

    "Why did she think she was pregnant then?"

    "She missed her periods. But the doctor said that''s too normal considering she had been workingte and was under too much stress. That''s why her cycle was messed up. And home pregnancy tests are not always right."

    "Poor Soren suffered because of a misunderstanding."

    Cloeughed, "But I''m happy about it. It made me see Soren Ke on his knees looking so pitiful."

    "You enjoyed yourself a lot, eh?"

    "Very."

    Raelle looked at the people around and asked, "Why did you bring me here?"

    "To let you taste something new."

    "I''m pretty sure I''ve had plenty of iced caramel mhiato before."

    Cloe shook her head at her, "Fine. I want you to consider building such a coffee shop in our new office building."

    "I''m listening."

    "So, currently we are in our rented building so I understand we kept things to a minimalistic level. However, we built such a huge building for our office. And now that it''s being decorated, I was saying that we should add some recreational ces. Just like we had in our HQ in Country G. We can''t let our employees keeping out to get their favorite drinks."

    "Who put you up to this?" asked Raelle.

    "No one."

    "Then why are you even mentioning this to me?"

    "Because I want a coffee shop inside. People like me who loves their coffee can''t waste time on the road every single day. Just give us some break."

    "It''ll be a ce to gossip."

    "Gossip also gives some people motivation to work more efficiently."

    "That''s a messed up concept."

    "You won''t understand it," said Cloe. "Just listen to me. Aren''t I your friend? I''m not speaking as your employee. I''m speaking as your friend. Listen to me."

    "Make a n and submit it for review. I''ll look into it."

    "Yes!"

    "Shall we go back to the office now?"

    "Sure," agreed Cloe and followed her out. "By the way, did I mention that since that incident, Kun has gone crazy. He is obsessed with having a kid now."

    "With you?"

    "Of course, who else?"

    "Then I see nothing wrong with it."

    "We aren''t married," reminded Cloe.

    "Maybe he wants to have a kid so that you can agree to marry him a little sooner."

    "As if I''d refuse if he propose. The prerequisite is that he proposed! What''s the point of ying around like this?"

    "I can''t say you''re wrong either," said Raelle. "Then talk to him."

    "Me?"

    "If I can get on my knee for my husband, you can''t even speak out your mind? What is wrong with you? Are you still so romantic and restrained after living with me for so long?"

    Cloe went silent, "You said that to me before too."

    "And you''re still procrastinating."

    "I''m not procrastinating. I''m just unable to find the right time to talk to him about it. Or do you think I should n the proposal myself. Because as you told me to do so, I did ask myself. And it seems I''d love to spend my life with Kun. So, as you say, hesitating won''t help any of us."

    Raelle lifted her hand and just when Cloe thought she would pat her shoulder, Raelle actually used her finger to pat her shoulder making her lips twitch.

    "What was that?" asked Cloe.

    "My encouragement to you."

    Cloe rolled her eyes beforeughing out loud. "Your sense of humor is still the worst."

    "Can''t be worse than yours," said Raelle. "You should be d with this much. Don''t expect too much."

    Cloe shook her head, "I don''t dare to expect too much. This one finger pat is enough for me. After all, I got it after a decade. It also means I''m really considered a friend now." She smiled at Raelle, "How about you give me an idea for proposal?"

    "Do you think I''m the right person for this?"

    "You created a buzz with your proposal, so yeah!"

    "My secret is just being spontaneous. Don''t think too much. Just when you feel like this is the moment, go for it."

 Chapter 1204 [Bonus chapter] Good At Her Work

    Chapter 1204 [Bonus chapter] Good At Her Work

    Cloe gave her a round of apuse, "This is why you''re the boss."

    "Do you need something? Why are you ttering me so much?"

    Cloe coughed a little and smiled sheepishly, "Actually, I was hoping that you''d go with me to pick the ring."

    "Do you think I''m the right person for that job?" asked Raelle.

    "Oh,e on! Even your dryments would be better than me being confused all by myself."

    "Why don''t you take my sister instead?" suggested Raelle.

    "But we are not that familiar with each other. But if you bring her, I don''t mind. The more, the merrier."

    Raelle didn''t outright refuse her but thought about it before saying, "I''ll talk to Wai and ask for her opinion. Then I''ll let you know."

    "You agreed?" asked Cloe in disbelief. "You really agreed before I beg?"

    "How many times have I made you beg in front of me?" asked Raelle.

    Cloe coughed and looked away, "Oh, speaking of your sister, that reminded me, where is your brother? What did you do that day that he didn''te again to our office?"

    Even though Raelle knew she purposely changed the topic, she still went along with her, "He is busy with his son. Why would he have time for me?"

    "Son?" asked Cloe. "Lately, everyone is reminding me that I''m old and all alone."

    "You''re only feeling that way because deep down, you always wanted a kid of your own."

    Cloe pursed her lips and didn''t refute. Instead, she sighed to herself. "Well, I want to be a good mother, Raelle. I want to prove that I''m capable to giving the love to my child that my mother never gave me."

    "Just to prove that you''re not like your mother, you want a kid?"

    "That''s not it," said Cloe. "You know I love kids. I always did. I even can''t bring myself to hate the kid of my sister. After all, why should I put the sins of his parents on his head and punish him?"

    "Is that why you let your mother keep ckmailing you on the name of that nephew?"

    "It won''t happen in the future."

    "I''ll wait for that future."

    "You just have no faith in me," said Cloe. "But it''s okay. I''ll prove it to you..." Before she could say anything else, she looked up to see a small crowd gathered in front of the reception desk of their office. She frowned to herself. "What''s happening here?"

    "Go over and find out," said Raelle.

    "Okay," agreed Cloe and rushed over. Obviously, she wouldn''t let Raelle squeeze inn the crowd. In fact, the crowd would disperse once they knew that Raelle was there but Cloe first wanted to figure out what was the situation so she left Raelle aside and went in to find out what was going on.

    "Madam, I already told you, you don''t have an appointment to see our President. I can''t let you go up without an appointment. Don''t make things difficult for me here. Yelling here won''t help. I''m just following the rules here," the receptionist was saying once Cloe came.

    "You! How dare you stop me here! Now, even I have to make an appointment? Do you know who I even am? Do you want to lose your job? What kind of rules are you following?"

    Cloe looked at the luxuriously dressed woman who was speaking and her frown deepened. She didn''t know who this woman was who was being so pompous but she didn''t like the tone she was using. She had a very bad impression of this person.

    "No matter who you are, our President has made it clear that everyone has to make an appointment or else, you can''t see her," said the receptionist trying to keep her voice as polite and professional as possible in the face of this unreasonable woman. In fact, inwardly, she was really mad right now. This woman had already insulted her for the past fifteen minutes and kept going back and forth about the same issue.

    First of all, she didn''t know who this woman was. And even if she knew, she still wasn''t obliged to just give her a free pass to the President''s office. After all, even President Raelle''s husband had to make an appointment before seeing her. Last week, President Raelle''s brother was here and even he had the permission from President Raelle and that''s why he was allowed to go up and sit.

    If they let just anyone up, where would their rules go?

    She still had to stand her ground to save her job because everyone knew that President Raelle valued principles and rules very much. She wouldn''t break it for anyone.

    "I told you to call Raelle and tell her that I''m here. She''ll definitely let me go up," said the woman.

    "President Raelle isn''t in the office. I told you that already."

    "And I told you then let me go up and wait for her in her office."

    "You don''t have the permission for that."

    "You little girl are very stubborn. Are you even listening? Family doesn''t need appointments. I''m her aunt. How can I be not allowed to enter her office and wait for her? How dare you stop me?"

    Cloe''s brows quirked up when she heard that. ''Aunt?'' she repeated to herself and wondered where did this aunt crawled up from.

    "Madam, we receive at least a hundred people in a month who ims to be President Raelle''s rtives. Do you think we have the free time to let them in? If you are her aunt, please call her yourself and I''ll let you go in once I get the instructions to do so. Or else, don''t make it difficult for me and let me work. You''re wasting my time and if you''re really President Raelle''s aunt, you should know what she treasures the most is time."

    Cloe''s lips curled up. She gave a nod of acknowledgement. She had to say, this receptionist was good. Very good at her work, for sure.

 Chapter 1205 Demonic Laugh

    Chapter 1205 Demonic Laugh

    The woman was enraged as she red at the receptionist and asked, "Do you think I am lying to you? Do I have a reason to lie here?"

    "I didn''t say you''re lying," said the receptionist. "I just told you to contact President Raelle yourself since I''m unable to forward your request at the moment because of our rules."

    Cloe was trying to figure out where did this aunte out from. She pretty much knew everyone from Raelle''s family then when did Raelle get such an aunt? In her understanding, there was only one aunt of Raelle Xiang and that was Mu Chenyan. And surprisingly, even the big boss, Mu Chenyan didn''t seem this arrogant.

    Okay, maybe Mu Chenyan was really arrogant but her arrogance was very different. She obviously wouldn''t keep arguing with a receptionist and make it difficult for her to work.

    After silently observing, Cloe finally stepped up and asked, "What''s going on here?" Hearing her voice, the crowd around focused on Cloe as she walked over and said, "And what is this crowd for? Are we having a vacation today? Are you all paid to stand here to see a y? Get back to work!"

    The crowd instantly dispersed without any hesitation. Seeing Cloe was like seeing the President Raelle. After all, not all employees got to see Raelle every day. But they had more interactions with Cloe and that meant she held a lot of prestige in this office too.

    When the receptionist saw Cloe, she finally breathed a sigh of relief. She finally didn''t have to argue with this stubborn olddy. She turned to Cloe and informed, "Miss Cloe, this woman here wants to see President Raelle."

    The woman also looked at Cloe up and down and heard Cloe asking, "Does she have an appointment?"

    "No."

    "Then what''s the problem? Isn''t it clear that whoever has no appointment doesn''t get to see the President? Do you think Chief has nothing better to do with her time?"

    The receptionist lowered her head and said, "But she doesn''t want to listen to me. She keeps insisting that she is President Raelle''s aunt."

    The woman faced Cloe haughtily and asked, "Who are you?"

    "That''s my question," answered Cloe. "You should be telling me who you are. Or else, I''ll call security to throw you out for obstructing our work."

    "You dare!" The woman was unconvinced to hear that. "You all will regret treating me like this. I''m Raelle''s aunt. Do you understand that?"

    "Then why don''t I know you?" asked Cloe. "Do you think you say you''re Chief''s aunt and I''ll believe it? Do you have any proof?"

    "You call her and ask," said the woman.

    "There is no need to call," came Raelle''s voice which startled the three receptionists. They looked at Raelle strutting over with her signature nk expression and the oppression she carried made them hold their breaths.

    Even if they all knew that Raelle was strict with rules they were still a bit scared right now. After all, it could be seen from the attitude of this woman that she was really Raelle''s rtive. What if President Raelle med them? So, all of them tried to make their presence as minimum as possible.

    The woman finally pulled down her ck shades and stared at Raelle with a bit of surprise in her eyes. She had obviously seen the recently circting pictures of Raelle on the inte but she didn''t think that the real person would give her a bigger surprise.

    "Oh, herees my niece. You give aunt justice. They won''t let me see you. Make sure they pay for it!"

    The receptionists were even more under pressure. They knew they won''t be fired for this mistake but Raelle''s way of punishment was also very... unique. Who can forget that she made her whole secretarial department put back the shredded papers? And by the time those people were done, their hands were shaking and their eyes were so blurry. It was painful just thinking about it.

    "And who are you?" asked Raelle. "Do I look like your personalwyer? Why would I get justice for you? My employees are just doing their job. Who are you to order them around? Only I can do that since I pay their paychecks. They have no other option than to listen to me. But you? What kind of a thing are you?"

    The woman didn''t expect Raelle would speak to her like this in front of her employees and her smile vanished. "I''m your aunt. I''m Song Suirong! How can you even ask me who I am?"

    "Your name is Song Suirong? Congrattions!" said Raelle. "My name is Raelle Xiang. See the difference? I''m Xiang. What the hell do I have to do with you?"

    "I''m Song Xin''ai''s sister!" yelled Song Suirong.

    "So what?" asked Raelle. "What am I supposed to do with that information? You''re Song Xin''ai''s sister then go and look for her. Don''t waste my time here. You are obstructing mypany''s work by making a scene here. I can sue you for that."

    "How can you even talk like that? There is no respect for elders!"

    "You''re older than me, I ept but don''t try to be my elder. There is a difference. Not all older people deserve respect. And not every old person out there is my elder. I have no obligation to you."

    "Is this what your parents taught you?"

    "My parents taught me nothing."

    Song Suirong gritted her teeth in hatred. "I''m your mother''s sister. You should at least be nicer to me."

    "Even Song Xin''ai doesn''t get to call herself my mother. Who are you to call yourself my aunt? Do I look easy to bully? Do you think you cane here and pressure me with family connections then you''re wrong. My parents divorced the moment I was born. And my mother didn''t raise me for a day. I have no obligation towards her much less you. The connection between you and I broke when your sister divorced my father. Now, you can leave!"

    Raelle turned to leave and heard Song Suirong shout, "I''ll tell your grandmother about this. She sent me here to call you home. I have to tell her how disrespectful you are. I''ll make your mother pay for it."

    "Why aren''t you leaving?" asked Raelle. "Do you want me to call the security for you?"

    Song Suirong could see that she wasn''t bluffing so she have to leave in defeat. Raelle walked to the reception desk and found the receptionists looking at her with caution, "Do you think I''ll fire you for this?"

    "No."

    "Then why are shaking like a sieve? I''m just here to say that you have done a good job. Indeed, we always follow the rules. And those who don''t follow the rules should be thrown out. Next time, if anyone ims to be my rtive just tell them to contact me personally. If they aren''t able to do so, call security. Don''t waste time. You know that I don''t like that."

    "Yes, President Raelle!"

    "Get back to work," said Raelle before leaving.

    "President Raelle is still the cool one!" said the first receptionist to the other. "She really doesn''t bend her rules for anyone. For a moment, I was very scared for you that she''ll punish you for holding her aunt back but it seems, my worry was wrong."

    "Maybe it''s because you''re new," said the other receptionist who had a confrontation with Song Suirong. "I knew I won''t get fired. President Raelle is a very principled person. She doesn''t fire people over such small matters. Do you think we are in a drama where people get fired for dropping a cup of coffee on the boss?"

    "Still, the President seems to like you."

    "Well, it''s not easy to impress our President Raelle."

    "Sigh. I never thought even President Raelle has such terrible rtives."

    "We can''t do anything about that. People in the upper circle always have messy rtionships. It''s no surprise that there''d be such terrible rtives after President Raelle.

    Meanwhile, Cloe followed Raelle in the elevator and said, "I was wondering who this aunt was. Didn''t think it''d be a maternal aunt."

    "No aunt," said Raelle. "I have only one aunt in this world. Mu Chenyan! No one else will get the title of that. Oh, you can add Yue Yue too but I don''t call her aunt."

    "You don''t call MC your aunt too."

    "Still. She is my father''s sister."

    "And this one was your mother''s sister," reminded Cloe.

    "If she had been nicer to that mother of mine, I might have spared her some of my politeness too. But since she didn''t know what being nice is, then I don''t have to bother wasting my politeness on her either."

    "This is just one person from that Song family and I feel so ufortable with her ''I own the ce'' attitude. I wonder what the rest are like."

    "Worse," said Raelle. "It can only be worse. So be prepared. And if any one of them shows up, don''t be merciful."

    Cloeughed evilly at that, "I''d be happy not to be merciful. In fact, I''ll make sure they are at my mercy instead! HA! HA! HA!"

    "What was that?"

    "The demonicugh!"

    "Don''t do it again!"

    "Tsk. So boring."

 Chapter 1206: High Blood Pressure

    Chapter 1206: High Blood PressureRaelle was looking through the progress report in her hands when her phone rang. She picked up the call and put it on speaker, "Hm?"

    "Are you done?" came Shui Xian''s voice from the other side.

    "Almost," replied Raelle.

    "Then get it done soon. I''m waiting for you."

    Raelle first looked at the time and then asked, "You came to pick me up?"

    "Yeah."

    "If I knew that I''d get the privilege of having my husband pick me up every day after announcing our rtionship, I''d have done it sooner."

    "Haha! As if I''d believe that," Shui Xian rolled his eyes at her words since she couldn''t see it anyway. "I made this offer before too but you didn''t agree."

    "Why didn''t I agree? Wasn''t I thinking about you? By the time youe to pick me up, you''d be home by them. So, isn''t it better to just go back home straight?"

    "I won''t talk about this. I''m hanging up. You wrap up your work ande down."

    "No, wait!" said Raelle. "I really can''t leave. I have a meeting."

    "How long?"

    "An hour perhaps."

    "Then I''lle up and wait for you," Shui Xian resigned himself to his fate. "And don''t you dare tell me to go back home first. I''m not leaving without you today."

    Raelle swallowed the words that she wanted to say because that was exactly what she was about to tell him. Instead, she said, "Well, do whatever you want."

    Shui Xian was more than happy to hear that. He didn''t have a driver with him today because he was nning to take Raelle for a drive. Why would he bring a lightbulb to get between them? Well, now, he had to wait. But he didn''t mind either. He locked the car and entered the office building.

    Surprisingly enough, Master Xian was a lot friendlier when he came to his wife''spany. He always had an awe-inspiring attitude when facing his own employees but would be a lot more approachable when he appeared in Raelle''s office. The reason was actually simple, he did nothing. It''s just that inparison to Raelle''s cold air, he was already a lot more approachable to people. It wasn''t his fault.

    "Oh, would you look at that? Who do we have here?"

    Shui Xian looked at Cloe and gave her a smile that wasn''t really a smile as he said, "Hello to you too, Cloe!"

    "Aren''t you busy? Why do you have time to linger around your wife all the time?"

    "It only means I have the will to see her so I find my way to do so."

    Cloe rolled her eyes at him, "Why are you here today? I was nning on going out with Chief."

    "What the hell? Isn''t it enough that you entangle with her every day, now you even have to take my nights away? Go away! I won''t let that happen!"

    "Master Xian is so stingy."

    "I always was. Especially when it came to my wife."

    "Don''t you get tired of saying ''my wife''?"

    "Why would I? Who would get tired of that? I can''t wait to say that in every sentence I speak."

    "Why do I think you''re trying to annoy me?"

    "And what will I get out of that?" asked Shui Xian.

    "How would I know?"

    "I think you''re getting influenced by your boyfriend who also thinks that I am always trying to piss him off. Do you guys think I have that much free time? Does my life revolve around you guys?"

    "No, your life revolves around your wife," said Cloe truthfully.

    "That''s true," agreed Shui Xian without any hesitation. "Sigh. I wish her life revolved around me too but then I think that if that were the case, would it still be my Raelle? No. I like her the way she is. It''s enough for me to revolve around her like she is my sun." Seeing the disgusting expression on Cloe''s face, he coughed, "No need to give me that stinky look. And by the way, don''t you have to join the meeting?"

    "No," answered Cloe. "I have to sort out some documents here."

    "Are you asking me to not disturb you?" asked Shui Xian.

    "Something like that," replied Cloe. "Chief''s office is over there. But I don''t need to tell you that. You know the way very well. It''s almost your second office by now. Even the employees in ourpany have started to wonder if Master Xian has be a new employee of ourpany."

    "There is no need for that sarcasm. I don''t evene that often. This is my first timeing to pick up my wife after the engagement. You are talking like I''m always here. Don''t I have to work too?"

    "How would I know if you really have work to do or not? Maybe you''re squeezing your employees."

    "Hey! Not everything can be done by employees too. I should just leave before you give me high blood pressure."

    "It''ll be old age giving you high blood pressure, not me!" came Cloe''s voice from behind.

    "You''re talking as if you''re any younger than me! If I''m old, so are you! You''re really losing all respect you showed me when we first met."

    "That was a different time. I saw you from afar and found you quite admirable. But the closer I got to you, the more I realized that..."

    "What? That I''m not admirable?"

    "No, it''s just that personally, you''re a unique character."

    "I''ll take that as apliment," said Shui Xian and left without waiting for her response.

    "It was actually meant to be apliment," Cloe shook her head with a smile on her lips. But she wasn''t lying either. Her view of Shui Xian had undergone an earth-shaking change over the time she knew him. She still admired him a lot but for very different reasons now. But she wasn''t willing to tell him that so as to save his ego from getting overly inted.

 Chapter 1207: Dishonest Xian

    Chapter 1207: Dishonest XianShui Xian entered Raelle''s office and sat down to wait for her. After sitting for a while reading the magazine, he finally stood up and walked up to the ss wall to look at the view outside. Since it was summer, the sun had yet to go down even though it was well past 6 in the evening. He looked at the gorgeous explosion of colors with the sunset in a trance.

    He suddenly heard the click and turned around. Seeing that it was Raelle who opened the door, he rushed over and pulled her over to look at the sunset with her saying, "Come and see the sunset with me from here."

    Raelle didn''t understand what he was up to but she still followed his lead and looked at the sun that was slowly going down. "Are you sure, it''s the right ce for a sunset view?"

    "Every ce is right for this activity," said Shui Xian.

    Raelle tilted her head to look at him and asked, "Won''t you add, ''as long as I''m with you?''"

    Shui Xian chuckled as he hugged her from behind and said, "You know that already, I don''t have to say anything."

    Raelle didn''t say anything about that as she leaned into his arms naturally and then asked, "Don''t you think you have this weird hobby?"

    "What?"

    "You want to see everything from everywhere."

    "Huh?"

    "Well, whether it''s a sunrise, sunset, or it''s rainy or cloudy, you just have to drag me to see it. Every morning after our run, you make me stand in front of theke just to see the sunrise. Don''t you get tired?"

    "No," answered Shui Xian. "It''s our ritual. Why would I get tired of it? I want to see everything with you. Now, think about it. Even if you go on a business trip, whenever you do your morning run, you''d look at the sunrise and it''d remind you of me. And then you''ll find that I''m missing beside you. Then you''ll miss me and call me. Or you might even rush to finish your work to get to me."

    "Wow! You''re throwing in a long line to catch the fish, eh?"

    "I think it''s a very smart move," said Shui Xian. "Don''t you think so?"

    "So, right now, you want me to enjoy this sunset with you so that every evening, I finish my work on time so that I don''t get to the point of watching this sunset alone from here and missing you. Right?"

    "Well, it wasn''t really the n but it sounds good to me." He turned her around and mmed her back against the ss wall as he added, "Originally, my intention was different."

    "Oh?" responded Raelle.

    Shui Xian took this moment to m his lips against hers. The moment Shui Xian''s lips met Raelle''s, a spark ignited between them, unleashing a flood of long-suppressed desire. This spark was never missing. Their kiss was hungry, passionate, and filled with longing as if they had endured a long while apart. Raelle melted into his embrace, her hand touched his chest and she felt his heart pounding against his chest as their bodies pressed together, the tension and excitement building between them.

    Their lips danced together, their tongues entwined in a sensual tango, exploring each other as if trying to memorize every curve and taste. Shui Xian''s hands traced the lines of Raelle''s body, from her shoulders down to the small of her back, pulling her closer to him. He savored the feel of her against him, her warmth and softness driving him wild with desire.

    Raelle''s fingers tangled in his dark hair, pulling him even closer. The grand view of the city beyond the window was forgotten, as all that mattered was the intense connection between them.

    Breaking the kiss momentarily, Shui Xian whispered breathlessly, "I''ve missed you, Raelle. So much."

    "It''s not even a day. You''re talking as if we didn''t see each other for years," she replied.

    Shui Xian bit her lip to stop her and added, "I said, I missed you."

    Raelle knew all too well what he wanted to hear so she just said it while running her fingers through his hair, "Well, I missed you too. Okay?"

    Shui Xian looked very satisfied with this answer.

    "But you better let me go now. We are in my office. We can continue it when we go back home."

    His eyes locked onto hers, a mix of love and passion evident in his gaze. "But I want it now. I can''t wait any longer, baby. I need you."

    Raelle gave him a look and before she could say anything, the ring of the phone interrupted their moment. Raelle patted his arms around her, telling him to let go. Shui Xian was very unconvinced and didn''t want to but against her, he couldn''t win. So, he dropped his arms.

    Raelle walked to her desk to take her phone and picked it up, "What is it, Yanyan?"

    "Elle, are you free?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "I am," answered Raelle.

    "Thene for dinner tonight. Weimin is bringing Justin and Wai has something to announce too. So, you bring Xian too," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Let me ask, Xian," said Raelle. She looked at Shui Xian and asked, "Yanyan is asking us toe home for dinner. What do you say?"

    Shui Xian walked over and hugged her from behind as he said, "I follow my wife. You decide."

    "We''lle over," said Raelle, and felt Shui Xian kiss the back of her neck.

    "It''s not at home," came Mu Chenyan''s response. "I''ll send you the location. We always eat at home. This time, we''re having dinner out. You juste over on time."

    "Got it," replied Raelle as Shui Xian started moving around. His hands weren''t honest and so were his lips. His hands kept roaming around her curves while his lips kept printing searing kisses on her back. Raelle didn''t know what else Mu Chenyan said because her attention was solely focused on the dishonest person behind her who kept making trouble at this time.

 Chapter 1208 Ill Take The Credit

    Chapter 1208 I''ll Take The Credit

    "Stop it," said Raelle as she held Shui Xian''s hand that was ying with the button of her pants.

    "Huh? Stop what?" came Mu Chenyan''s voice. "I didn''t do anything though."

    "No, not you," exined Raelle as Shui Xian''s lips pressed against her ear and she heard a low chuckle from him.

    After he was doneughing, his tongue darted out to y with her delicate ear making Raelle lose focus again. Usually, it was her who was making trouble with him. It wasn''t every day that her husband was so active. She didn''t even know what medicine he took today. Oh, well, it''s not like she cared or hated it. She was more than happy to oblige but he was making trouble at the wrong time.

    "I''m on a phone call," reminded Raelle.

    "I know," replied Shui Xian innocently.

    "What''s going on, Elle?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "No, it''s nothing," was all Raelle could say. She could not exin to her Yanyan what was happening here.

    "Oh, okay," said Mu Chenyan suspiciously. She did feel that something was wrong but she couldn''t tell what it was and since Raelle wasn''t willing to tell her then she couldn''t possibly force it either. Anyway, if it was something serious, Elle would share it with her. Since she didn''t, it means it wasn''t important. "Thene on time. I''ll be waiting."

    "Got it," replied Raelle holding back a moan, her voiceing out weird.

    And that''s why even when Mu Chenyan hung up the phone call she was left staring at her phone in a daze.

    Once the call was disconnected Raelle turned around to stare at her husband and asked, "Now, you tell me. What is wrong with you?"

    "Nothing," answered Shui Xian as his hands continued to rub her waist.

    Raelle looked at his hands under her shirt as she asked, "This is nothing?"

    Shui Xian''s hands moved up to cup her breasts through her bra as he asked innocently, "What is wrong with this?" Seeing her eyes, he kissed her forehead saying, "You''re thinking too much. I just want to understand what kind of excitement you get when you pounce on me."

    "Is that so?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian kissed her forehead again as he answered, "I won''t lie to you." With that, he started unbuttoning her shirt with his utmost attention and Raelle let him y. It''s not like she was against it.

    As they shed their clothes, they reveled in the sight of each other. Shui Xian gentlyid Raelle down on the couch, a cascade of pillows providing a luxurious bed for their passion.

    As the city lights twinkled in the background, casting a romantic glow across the room, Shui Xian and Raelle found themselves drawn to each other, their passion ignited like a zing fire. Their fingers traced delicate patterns along each other''s skin, igniting sparks of desire with every touch.

    Shui Xian leaned in to kiss Raelle again, but this time, he started at her lips, slowly trailing his kisses down her jawline and neck, leaving a trail of fiery sensations in his wake. Raelle''s breath hitched with each tender kiss, her body responding eagerly to his caresses. Her hands roamed his back, feeling the sculpted muscles beneath his skin, and she reveled in the way he shivered under her touch.

    It was something she would never get bored of seeing. The way he always left himself so vulnerable in her hands. Her touch could always make him rx and it held an unknown power over him too. She didn''t understand why but it didn''t stop her from feelingcent.

    Shui Xian''s hands cupped her breasts, his touch gentle yet possessive, and Raelle arched into him. Shui Xian worshipped Raelle''s body, leaving a trail of feather-light kisses along her corbone and down to her breasts, paying homage to every inch of her with his lips and tongue.

    Raelle''s hands found their way to his chest, tracing the lines of his sculpted physique, savoring the warmth of his skin. The air in the room grew heavy with their shared desire, and the sound of their moans and whispers filled the space, a symphony of pleasure and love. Shui Xian positioned himself above her, looking deep into her eyes as he entered her slowly, their bodies bing one.

    Their bodies moved together, finding rhythm and harmony as they explored each other''s desires and needs. Time seemed to stand still as they lost themselves in the pleasure they brought each other. The outside world faded away, leaving only the two of them, entwined in a web of intimacy.

    In this intimate dance of love, time seemed to stand still. Every touch, every kiss, every whispered confession of love carried weight and significance as if sealing their bond for eternity. They were lost in each other, drowning in a sea of passion that knew no boundaries.

    As they reached the peak of their passion, their bodies trembled together, the intensity of their love reaching its zenith. They held each other tightly, their hearts beating as one, sharing a moment of pure bliss and ecstasy.

    Afterward, theyy in each other''s arms, the glow of satisfaction and love radiating from their faces. Shui Xian gently brushed a strand of hair away from Raelle''s face, his touch tender and full of affection.

    "I love you, Raelle," he murmured, his voice soft and sincere.

    Raelle looked into his sincere eyes and found this sudden confession of love quite refreshing. There was nothing fancy about it. In fact, she had heard from someone that one shouldn''t believe the words of a man after having sex but she was particrly willing to believe in whatever he said.

    He brushed away the strands of her hair that stuck to her face as he added, "I really love you."

    "You don''t need to tell me that," she said. "I know it already."

    "But I still want to say it," he said. "I told you, I''ll keep telling you that I love you for the rest of our life. And I''ll not only use my words to tell you that I love you but I''ll prove it with my actions too."

    "I remember," she replied as she rested her head on his chest. "I love you too."

    Shui Xian chuckled softly at her words and kissed the top of her head with a contented look in his eyes.

    "So, should I take it that you did it on purpose?" asked Raelle.

    "What?"

    "Coming to my office for this?"

    "You can''t me me. My original intention was just to pick you up and go out on a drive. But who told you to have a meeting? So, while I was waiting for you, I became a bit impatient, and then when Iid my eyes on you, my desires just broke out like a raging volcano."

    "I must say, you''re getting good at talking."

    "Oh, thanks. I''ll give all the credit to my lovely wife for that."

    "Then I''ll take this credit without feeling burdened."

    Raelle looked at the clock and sat up saying, "Get up. We have to wash up and leave. Or we''ll bete for dinner and we''ll have no way to exin why we arete."

    "Can''t we just be honest?" asked Shui Xian as he sat up and kissed her shoulder. "Everyone is an adult there. They will understand."

    Raelle looked at him, "Aren''t you getting shameless?"

    "I am learning that from you too."

    "Oh?"

    Shui Xian coughed as he changed his words, "No, no. I don''t mean that you''re shameless." Before he could continue, Raelle pinched his face and kissed his lips.

    As she pulled back, she said, "Well, I am shameless. I won''t deny it. Who asked my husband to be so handsome? He always brings out the shamelessness inside of me."

    Shui Xian smiled at her and kissed her forehead, "Yes. I am just that capable!"

    "Get up now," said Raelle as she stood up, naked right in front of him. His eyes roamed over her body tantly. "Aren''t you done?"

    Shui Xian groaned, "Why do we have to have dinner today? I was still nning to have another round, over there!"

    Raelle looked where he pointed to see the ss wall of her office and then turned to look back at him. "You really have some ns for tonight, eh?"

    "Aren''t all my ns for nothing now?"

    Raelle pulled him up and said, "Let''s deal with the dinner first. After that, I''ll make your wishe true another day."

    Shui Xian''s eyes lit up, "You promise?"

    "You are doubting my words?"

    "No. I''m trying to confirm your words."

    "Yes, yes. We''ll do it wherever you want. Just get up now. We already wasted over an hour here."

    "I think it was an hour well spent. Don''t you think so, baby?"

    Raelle put her hand on his forehead and said, "You don''t have a fever. What is wrong with you?"

    Shui Xian ignored her remarks and hugged her as he walked towards the bathroom saying, "Let''s go and take a shower."

    "You''re making trouble again."

    "No, I''m very serious," he responded and didn''t let her escape as he pulled her in to take a shower together. Of course, he could only honestly just take a shower with her at this time and wasn''t allowed to move his hands and feet. Or else, they would waste even longer time here.

 Chapter 1209 Self-Reliant

    Chapter 1209 Self-Reliant

    After a while when Raelle and Shui Xian appeared outside, Cloe gave them a resentful look. Seeing how they freshly took a bath and had even changed their clothes, she didn''t even have to think to know what had conspired inside the room in the past hour.

    But she was suddenly wondering when did Shui Xian''s clothese to Raelle''s office and why she didn''t know about it? It seemed that her Chief was really prepared for every situation all the time.

    "You''re still here?" asked Raelle.

    Cloe took a deep breath and extended the file in her hand towards her, "I need your signature on this urgently."

    "Oh," responded Raelle as she took the file and skimmed through the documents before signing them and giving it back to Cloe. Then, she had the audacity to say, "Don''t work sote."

    "You think I want to?" asked Cloe with a smile but it could be seen that she wasn''t in the mood to smile. That smile was more like an angry one. "Chief!"

    "Hm?"

    "Beauty brings catastrophe,"mented Cloe. "You shouldn''t forget that."

    Raelle shrugged in response and left with Shui Xian. Cloe was left there standing, looking at them. Then she looked down at the file in her hands and sighed at her fate.

    "Where to?" asked Shui Xian as they got in the car. Raelle gave him the phone where Mu Chenyan had already sent the location. He looked at it and raised his brows, "It''s a private kitchen. I know where it is."

    "Husband..."

    "Hm?"

    "Why did you reallye to pick me up today?"

    "Because I wanted to take you somewhere."

    "Sorry."

    "For what?"

    "For ruining your n," answered Raelle.

    Shui Xian stretched his hand to touch her slightly damp hair as he said, "Don''t think about it. I''m fine with the change of n as long as the n involves you. I don''t mind where we are spending our evening. What I care about is that we are together. Besides, I didn''t have anything special nned anyway. At most, I thought that I''d ask you and if you agreed then we''ll go on a long drive to the beach."

    "The beach?"

    "Yup."

    "We don''t have a beach in our city," reminded Raelle.

    "But we do have one in the Koral City."

    "That''s 3 hours away from here."

    "Yeah. That''s why I said. Long Drive."

    "That''s literally a long drive."

    Shui Xian chuckled at that but didn''tment on that. He knew it was a long drive and a very unreliable n but he couldn''t help it.

    "If we go to the beach," started Raelle. "How would we get back here having money."

    "If that''s the case, then can''t we just take the helicopter there?"

    for work tomorrow?"

    "How is that difficult? Just after sunrise, we can drive back. Or we can just call a helicopter. You don''t understand the convenience of having money."

    "If that''s the case, then can''t we just take the helicopter there?"

    "No. How will it be a long drive then?"

    Raelle shook her head and said, "I think this discussion is quite pointless. Let''s not waste time on it."

    "So, you''re up for it?" he asked expectantly.

    "We''re going on a dinner," reminded Raelle.

    "I am asking for future reference," replied Shui Xian. "Anyway, soon, your office will change the building. And then, we''ll be only ten minutes apart from each other. It''d be easier to pick you up. Then you''ll have no excuse to keep me from picking you up every day."

    "Aren''t you a little too excited about that?"

    "Very," he responded.

    "Why? What''s the fun in picking me up?"

    "Why isn''t it fun? I never had the experience of taking my wife to and from work. I think it''d be interesting."

    "Don''t you want some personal time?"

    Shui Xian''s smile dropped, "You do? You don''t want me toe to you?"

    Raelle actually thought that she was a scumbag when she saw Shui Xian''s depressed expression. It really looked like she bullied him or something. Even though this evening, it wasn''t her on the top but he was!

    Ahem!

    She meant that she didn''t bully him at all. Nope! She refused to take the me.

    "There is still time before we move," said Raelle.

    "Don''t change the topic."

    "Fine. Let''s take a step back. You cane to pick me up only two times a week."

    "Four!" he negotiated.

    "Two!" she repeated.

    "Three?" he lowered his demand.

    "Two!"

    "We don''t have any room for negotiation?"

    "Nope."

    "Fine. Two it is. I''ll take it."

    "You do realize that this was another useless argument right?" asked Raelle.

    "Wife, what kind of arguments do you want? What kind of arguments even happen in married life? We don''t leave room for misunderstanding since I''m a very talkative and a very honest husband who never hides anything from his lovely wife. You don''t have your temper just because I left my clothes scattered around the room."

    "You don''t do that," said Raelle.

    "Exactly, my point. Why would we argue then? Ah! Our argument can only be about, you don''t give me enough time. How pitiful I am!"

    "Don''t use this argument to put forward your inner feelings. I give you enough time."

    Shui Xian rubbed her head, "Then what''s there to argue about?"

    "Don''t married couples argue because of kids too?"

    "We don''t have any yet. When we have one in the future, we''ll see about that."

    "Let''s have two," she suddenly said.

    "What? No!"

    "Why not?"

    "I think one is good enough," he argued.

    "One will have it tough," said Raelle.

    "How?"

    "He''ll have to take over yours and my business. Too much pressure on one kid. Don''t you think it''ll be bad? So, we should make it easy and have two so that each can take enough inheritance."

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched when he heard this argument and literally was speechless. He gave her a look and shook his head saying, "Baby, it''s very easy to solve this."

    "How?"

    "We''ll just donate all our money. We worked hard for it. How can our kid be useless enough to depend on us? He should also be self-reliant."

    "That sounds reasonable," said Raelle. "Let''s do that."

    Shui Xian smiled in satisfaction after ruining his future kid''s chances of being a rich and worry-free second-generation.

 Chapter 1210 Knowledge

    Chapter 1210 Knowledge

    "Ge, you came here first?" asked Xiang Wai when she saw Xiang Weimin waiting inside the private room. "Where is my nephew?"

    Xiang Weimin pointed toward the pond, "He''s looking at the koi fishes."

    "Isn''t he too into fishes these days?" asked Xiang Wai. "I thought he likes dinosaurs."

    "He does," replied Xiang Weimin. "We even went to the museum. But it''s also true thattely, he is quite interested in fish too." He took a pause and asked, "You came alone? I thought you''d bring Zhai Yanjun."

    "Oh, he ising," answered Xiang Wai, and then ran to join Justin. "Yo, little one! What''s up?"

    Justin looked up at Xiang Wai and smiled at her as he answered, "Hello! How are you doing, auntie?"

    "I am doing absolutely fine," said Xiang Wai. "What about you?"

    "I''m good," he replied without any shyness.

    "What are you doing here?" she asked.

    Justin pointed at the koi fishes in the pond as he said, "Do you know that the oldest koi fish ever recorded was Hanako?"

    "I don''t know that," replied Xiang Wai very honestly. She didn''t feel any embarrassment as an adult that she knew nothing about it. If she didn''t know, she''d never say she knew. Why would she lie to a dumb. In fact, he was happy to share with her, "Hanako was a red Higoi Koi. Hanako was born in 1751 in Japan. She died because of old kid and make him think that adults are omnipotent? Wouldn''t it break him once he grew up and realized that adults actually are more confused than kids in life?

    Justin didn''t mind her answer and neither did he think that she was dumb. In fact, he was happy to share with her, "Hanako was a red Higoi Koi. Hanako was born in 1751 in Japan. She died because of old age in 1977 at the age of 226."

    "She spent quite a long life,"mented Xiang Wai seriously.

    "Actually, koi fishes can live up to the age of 50 depending on their environment and gics. In fact, it can even go up to 70 too."

    "Wow! I didn''t know any of that," said Xiang Wai. "Our Justin is so smart."

    "No, it''s not that I am smart. It''s that you are not interested in koi fish that''s why you don''t have this knowledge. There is nothing wrong with that. Don''t feel bad."

    Xiang Wai was left smiling at beingforted by her little nephew. But she had to say it felt very good. At least, he didn''t think she was dumb. He was indeed an adorable one. How could he be so adorable?

    "Tell me more," said Xiang Wai. "I''m all ears. I''ll listen to it even if I''m not interested before. I''ll pay attention as long as the teacher is as adorable as you."

    "You really want to know more?" he asked.

    "I do. Tell me."

    Justin was obviously more than happy to have a listener with whom he could share what he recently learned. "You see, unlike other koi, Ghost Koi originated in Britain. Ghost Koi is a crossbreed between a mirror carp and a metallic Ogon Koi."

    "Why are they called Ghost Koi?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Because their metallic scales make them apparently disappear when they are underwater. Fascinating. Isn''t it?"

    "Very fascinating."

    Here, Justin continued to share his knowledge from his knowledge pool with Xiang Wai, and there, Xiang Weimin pursed his lips at his sister who was suddenly so engrossed in her discussion with her nephew, that she even forgot where she was. Of course, he wasn''t gonna go over to disturb them at all.

    "What''s happening there?" asked Mu Chenyan as she came in after seeing the chef of this private kitchen. She looked at her nephew in confusion.

    "Knowledge is being shared," replied Xiang Weimin. "Let''s not disturb them."

    "I wasn''t going to," answered Mu Chenyan.

    ''What''s the knowledge rted to?'' asked Yue Yue from Xiang Weimin.

    "Kois," replied Xiang Weimin.

    Yue Yue''s lips made the shape of an ''O'' in understanding and didn''t ask anymore.

    "By the way, Yue, what do you know about Kois?"

    Yue Yue gave her best friend a strange look but still answered, ''Thebination of 8 red and 1 ck koi is considered "lucky".''

    "Why do you know that?"

    ''Because we had thisbination in our home when I was little.''

    "Oh," responded Mu Chenyan. "I shouldn''t have asked that."

    ''I don''t mind.'' Yue Yue shrugged without any care. After all, it really didn''t affect her anymore. She didn''t mind talking about her past as much as she used to. Now, she had nothing that she couldn''t face. She had nothing to hide from anyone and she had nothing to be guilty about either. That''s why she had been feeling very light-hearted.

    As if she had shed some weight off her heart and now, she was free.

    "Where is everyone else?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Should I call again?"

    Yue Yue pulled her back, ''It isn''t time yet. Don''t be so impatient.''

    "I''m not being impatient. I''m just wondering where my Elder Xiang is. Shing Ge said he''de together with Elder Xiang. I can''t believe they are bothte."

    "Aunt, sit down and drink some water," said Xiang Weimin. "Why are you always in a hurry? Aunt Yue is right. You should wait for a little while more. There is no hurry."

    "I''m not in a hurry. Really. I''m not." insisted Mu Chenyan but the other two obviously didn''t find her words every believable right now. "Forget it. I won''t talk about this again. Okay?" She took a pause and asked Xiang Weimin, "How have you been these days? I mean, spending time with Justin. How''s the experience?"

    "It''s been interesting," answered Xiang Weimin. "Quite new. But I still find it amazing. Justin usually might stay quiet but once hees across the things he likes, he has a lot to say. And the best part is, fortunately, we have very simr interests. So, I can still bond over that too."

    Mu Chenyan smiled at that, "It''s good. And how are the arrangements for Justin''s birthday?"

    "I told you, I can handle it."

    Yue Yue also agreed with him, ''You stay out of it. He is the father. Let him do it.''

 Chapter 1211 Grand Entrance

    1211 Grand Entrance

    Mu Chenyan gave them a baffled look, "Do you all think I''m that nosy? Or I''m that eager to find work for myself? Can''t I just ask how he is preparing everything? I didn''t say I''ll get involved in it." She tsked to herself and got up to go outside to wait for everyone. But as she approached the door, she came face to face with, Zhai Kuijun. Her face scrunched up as she turned to look at Yue Yue, "What is he doing here?"

    Yue Yue pursed her lips and gave her a sheepish smile, ''He asked where I was so I just told him. I didn''t know he''de here.''

    Mu Chenyanughed fakely in response and gave Zhai Kuijun a re.

    "Aren''t you tired of ring at me at every turn?" asked Zhai Kuijun to her.

    "I''m not tired. If I could, I''d have dug a hole in your body by now," responded Mu Chenyan.

    Zhai Kuijun shook his head at her but before he could say anything, he heard Xiang Hulin''s voiceing from behind, "Didn''t I tell you to not get in a confrontation with my sister?"

    Zhai Kuijun looked at his old friend and said, "You think I want to? I really want to avoid her as much as possible but she is the one finding faults in me."

    "My Chenchen isn''t that unreasonable," spoke the very ''blind'' brother who doted on his sister without a bottom line and never thought there was anything wrong with his own sister. If there was anyone at fault it had to be others. His sister can''t possibly be wrong. "If she is finding faults, there must be faults to be found, no?"

    "Hulin, it doesn''t suit you," said Zhai Kuijun. "Don''t be so blind now."

    "You mind your own business and stop being an eyesore to my sister."

    "It''s not possible," replied Zhai Kuijun. "I''ll only be not an eyesore to her if I stop pursuing her best friend which is impossible. So, I''ll just deal with being an eyesore to her."

    "Why do you both have so much to say?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Ge, I thought you weren''ting."

    Xiang Hulin touched her head as he said, "Didn''t you tell me to try my best toe over? How can I disappoint my sister?"

    Mu Chenyan smiled at his answer and said, "I''m gonna go out and wait for Elder Xiang. You keep an eye on this friend of yours."

    Xiang Hulin smiled, "Okay."

    Mu Chenyan walked out and coincidentally, Grandfather Xiang was already here with Shui Koshing. "Why are you only here now?"

    "Aren''t we on time?" asked Shui Koshing as he looked at his wristwatch. "Yeah. We are on time. What are you so impatient for?"

    "Why is everyone after me? Why can''t I be impatient?"

    "Okay, okay," said Grandfather Xiang. "No one is impatient. Koshing, you go inside. We''ll be there soon."

    "Okay, Uncle!" agreed Shui Koshing and walked in.

    Grandfather Xiang gave Mu Chenyan a look and asked, "Who is it? Who yed tricks on our Chenyan and made her lose her temper? Tell me about it and I''ll make sure that person regrets it."

    Mu Chenyan snorted at his words, "You''ve been so kind for years. I don''t think you''ll do anything wrong to get bad karma at this stage. So, you leave all the bad things to me. I don''t mind bad karma at all. And I can definitely make that person regret her own existence."

    Grandfather Xiang frowned slightly when he heard that. It seemed someone really made Mu Chenyan angry today. That''s odd. Who could make her this angry?

    "Did you run into your aunt?" he asked.

    "What? No," answered Mu Chenyan.

    "Then who else can make you this angry? I can''t think of anyone else."

    "Forget it. You don''t have to know."

    Grandfather Xiang gave her a look, "Now, you''re gonna hide things from me?"

    "You should know that I often selectively hide things from you so as not to dirty your ears. I only tell you good things or mildly bad things. Because I know you have been so benevolent in these years all because you want to umte merits for your wife. So, let''s stay that way." She took a pause and added, "That just reminded me, just a day after Justin''s birthday is also godmother''s birthday."

    Grandfather Xiang''s eyes softened, "I noticed that detail too."

    "I meant to ask what to do. We always went to her grave on her birthday. We are going this year too. Right?"

    "We are," answered Grandfather Xiang without any hesitation. "Don''t you already know that?"

    "No... It''s just that the situation is a bit different this year," said Mu Chenyan. "We aren''t alone."

    "If you''re wondering whether your brother will join us or not, then the answer is let him do so," answered Grandfather Xiang. "Even if I stop him every year, doesn''t he still go there? This time, we''ll just let him enter the ancestral hall too."

    Mu Chenyan heaved a sigh of relief, "Then what about Weimin, Wai, and Raelle? Don''t you think we should bring them too?"

    "Okay. The whole family will go. Is that okay? Are you happy now?"

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head, "Why wouldn''t I be happy? I think godmother will be happier to see all her grandkids. Oh, and even her great-grandkid."

    "I think more than that, she''d be more excited to see you bringing a partner with you," said Grandfather Xiang.

    Mu Chenyan''s smiled froze and she feigned a cough saying, "What are you doing talking about all this here? Let''s go inside. Right. We should go inside. Everyone is waiting for you. You''re the elder of the family. How can you be thest toe?"

    "I''m pretty sure I''m not thest one toe," argued Grandfather Xiang.

    "But you''re not the first one toe either."

    "As the elder of the family, shouldn''t I make a grand entrance as thest person though."

    "Where did you learn that?"

    "From you."

    "Elder Xiang, you can''t always put the me on my head."

 Chapter 1212 [Bonus chapter] Marry A Dog

    1212 [Bonus chapter] Marry A Dog

    Before Mu Chenyan could push his wheelchair inside, someone ced a hand over hers. She turned her face and looked into Xia Zhao''s eyes.

    "Oh, Zhao is here!" said Grandfather Xiang.

    "Hello, Uncle!" greeted Xia Zhao.

    "I''ll go in first. You guyse slowly," with that Grandfather Xiang operated his wheelchair and entered the corridor leaving these two behind.

    Mu Chenyan wanted to follow him but Xia Zhao still held her hand and didn''t let go.

    "What is it? Let me help him in."

    "He doesn''t need your help," said Xia Zhao.

    Mu Chenyan sighed and looked at him, "What?"

    "You don''t want to take me to see your godmother."

    Mu Chenyan''s expression changed, "You heard that?"

    "What do you think?" he asked.

    "Well, I didn''t say I won''t take you with me."

    "You didn''t say you will either. In fact, you inly avoided the topic. So, Yanzi, would you like to tell me if you''re embarrassed by me or something?"

    Mu Chenyan contemted before she turned to face him and even took the initiative to hug his waist as she said, "How is that possible? How can I be embarrassed by you? I can''t even wait to show you off to the whole world."

    Xia Zhao shuddered at her words and said, "As much as I''m enjoying you taking the initiative to hug me here, I have to say I can''t handle those words. They sound so damn fake!"

    "You think I''m lying to you?"

    "Yes. You''re clearly trying to coax me to let go of this topic."

    Mu Chenyan humphed when he didn''t fall for it and wanted to let go but how could he let go once she fell into his arms on her own initiative. Wouldn''t he be a fool to let go at this point?

    "Let go!"

    "Nope. You came into my arms on your own. Now, when to let go is up to me."

    Mu Chenyan gave him a stinky look. He carefully helped her tuck her hair behind her ear and even took the chance to rub her earlobe making her squirm a little.

    "So? Why won''t you take me to see Madam Xiang? If I remember correctly, she liked me a lot. Auntie would always bring my favorite cake whenever I came over. How could it be possible that she didn''t like me? So, why don''t you wanna bring me to see her?"

    Mu Chenyan sighed, "Isn''t that why? She liked you. No, she loved you so much. And she always used to tell me to learn from her little Zhaozhao who is such an adorable kid, he is so sensible. He is good at everything. He is polite, gentle, and kind. And whenever hees over, he always helps her out in everything."

    Xia Zhao rubbed his nose as he asked, "So, I did something wrong again?"

    "How can it be? Godmother''s little Zhaozhao can never be wrong."

    "You can stop with that and tell me what exactly is going on here."

    "Isn''t it just that? She used to say that you''d make a very good partner. Whoever married you will be a damn lucky girl. I still remember vividly, she once even said to me, ''Yan, they say don''t let your fertile water flow down to other people''s fields. So, take your chance and kidnap the little Zhaozhao back home. If you want, I''ll help you with nning. A pavilion closer to the water always gets to enjoy the moonlight first. You''re the closest to him. Don''t lose to any random girl out there.''"

    Xia Zhao was actually very surprised to hear this. He did know that Aunt Xiang always had a good opinion of him, but he didn''t know she really nned to make him, her son-inw. Ah! No wonder, she used to hint that her daughter was so nice and had so many positive points.

    Seeing himughing, Mu Chenyan frowned, "What are youughing about?"

    "I just recalled how Aunt used to tell me your strong points. Once you beat up the fatty in thepound and I was at your home. She said, ''Aiyo. Our Yan is so strong. You don''t have to worry about anything with her around. And she is so protective of her own people. She is full of justice. My lovely daughter is good everywhere.''"

    Mu Chenyan almost choked on nothing and said, "If I remember correctly, she beat me with a feather duster after I beat that fatty."

    "I know," he replied. "That''s why I''m saying. She had to work so hard to make your negative points look like your positive points. I didn''t understand why she''d do that since I already was familiar with you more than anyone. But now, I understand. She was trying to make me realize that I won''t find a better one than you."

    Mu Chenyan''s face had ck lines on it now. She felt so embarrassed by what her godmother did. It was just one example but she was sure that her godmother must have said a lot more in front of Xia Zhao.

    "Anyway, just because she asked you to kidnap me back then. You don''t want to take me to her?"

    Mu Chenyan shook her head.

    "Then what is it?" he asked curiously.

    Mu Chenyan hesitated but in the end she still told in a low voice, "I told her back then that, ''That is never gonna happen. How can I be with that idiot named Zhao? Never! Ever! I refuse to ept him. No matter how good he is. By the way, he isn''t that good as much as you think.'' She said, ''Mark my words, you won''t find a better one! Yes, there might be a lot of better men out there in the world. But the one who can treat you better than him, isn''t born yet!'' I was also mad so I replied that, ''In this life, I''d rather marry a dog than to marry Xia Zhao.''"

    Xia Zhao''s lips twitched while Mu Chenyan lowered her head as she finished speaking. Oh, how she wanted the ground to open up and take her in.

 Chapter 1213 No One Knows

    Chapter 1213 No One Knows

    "Why don''t you add thest sentence? Say it out loud," said Xia Zhao. From what he knew about Mu Chenyan, all of this wasn''t really that surprising. He was all too familiar with her temperament and her prejudice when it came to him. She''d selectively ignore her feelings and only focus on one feeling; hatred! He was sure that she still had something she wasn''t telling him. "Hm? Say it."

    "I also said that if one day I really fell for you, I''d be a real dog and would even bark in front of her twice."

    Xia Zhao pursed his lips to suppress hisughter which was proving to be a lot more difficult than he thought it''d be so he threw his head on her shoulder andughed out loud.

    "Laugh! Why don''t youugh to death?!"

    "You sure about that?" asked Xia Zhao.

    Mu Chenyan turned her face away and refused to even look at him.

    "So, you just don''t want to take me to her because it''ll mean that you lost? You don''t wanna ept that loss? But won''t she know it still?"

    "At least, like this, I can pretend like she doesn''t know about us. Once I took you to see her, it''ll be difficult to pretend anymore."

    Xia Zhao rubbed her head, "You and your stubbornness. You just don''t wanna take any loss in your life, eh? But baby, that''s the woman you loved, respected, admired, and worshipped. Are you even ashamed to ept that you lost in front of her?"

    Mu Chenyan looked into his serene eyes and found herself rxing down. In fact, it wasn''t that difficult to take this loss. It only proved that her admiration for her godmother wasn''t wrong. That woman was really sober than her in life and even back then, she could see their feelings. Even when they didn''t recognize their own feelings, she knew it all.

    In fact, her godmother wasn''t really a matchmaker. She never forced her or Xiang Hulin into an arranged rtionship. And that''s why when Xiang Hulin told her that he loved Song Xin''ai, even though she found it a mismatch, she still didn''t obstruct them. She believed that kids have to hit a wall to learn some lessons in life. And she''d at least, guide but she would never take the responsibility of saving them everywhere.

    Maybe that''s why even though she knew the nature of the feelings shared between her and Xia Zhao, she never forced her. She only once in a while pointed out how Xia Zhao would make a good partner. If she had to say when she was being stubborn, it was only when she told her that one day, you, Chenyan would realize that no man can love you like Xia Zhao.

    Mu Chenyan could onlyugh at that now. As it turned out, she really didn''t find another man who could love her like this man in front of her. Should she say it was unfortunate that it waste when they found each other or should she say it was fortunate that it wasn''t toote? It was hard to answer that question.

    Seeing her suddenly, he asked, "What are you smiling at?"

    "I''ll take you to see her," she said. "You are right. I have never loved any other person in my life as much as I loved her. So, it''s no shame to tell her that she was right. As always. Damn it! I suddenly feel like the rumors were true about her."

    "What rumors?"

    "That she came from a family of fortune tellers," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Don''t talk nonsense!"

    "I''m not talking nonsense," insisted Mu Chenyan. "I''m telling you. Something was very odd about her. When my parents, she already knew. And she was the first one to say that my brother''s marriage won''t work. She was the first one to find Raelle when she was kidnapped. No one found her except for my godmother. And she was even right about us. Tell me, one time can be a coincidence. How can it be a coincidence so many times?"

    "I refuse to have this conversation," said Xia Zhao.

    "Why? You know something? You must know. Are you hiding something from me?"

    "Okay! Now, I am even suspicious?"

    "You are always suspicious."

    Xia Zhao shook his head and sighed helplessly as he told her, "Okay, I have heard of those rumors. I ept. But most people only know that Aunt Xiang came from a family of merchants in ancient times andter, they were called businessmen when they moved to another country. I ept that she was a very mysterious person but we won''t know what was going on with her because no one from her family is around anymore."

    "By the way, I won''t bark."

    Xia Zhao burst outughing again when he heard that.

    Mu Chenyan hit his chest, "I''m serious here. I really won''t bark like a dog. I said that only in a fit of rage. And I know she taught me that a gentleman should keep his word. But I''m not a gentleman. In fact, I can''t even be considered a gentlewoman! So, I don''t give a fuck about going back on my words."

    Xia Zhao patted her head lovingly, "Okay, okay. We won''t do that. No one is asking you to. She is no longer around to remind you and no one else knows this apart from us."

    "Yes, no one knows. So, no one can hold be ountable either," said Mu Chenyan. "You better keep these words your grave with you."

    "I promise."

    "Cross your heart!"

    Xia Zhao pursed his lips and crossed his heart as per her instructions. "Happy?"

    "It''s good for now," said Mu Chenyan happily.

    "Brother?"

    Mu Chenyan frowned when she heard that call and looked at the person then she said to Xia Zhao, "I think he is calling you."

    Xia Zhao also turned to see and came face to face with his younger brother, Xia Hao who was looking very shocked at the moment.

 Chapter 1214 [Bonus chapter] Title

    Chapter 1214 [Bonus chapter] Title

    Xia Hao wasn''t just shocked. He was more than just shocked right now. He was seeing his ascetic and unsmiling brother, in the arms of a woman. And he wasn''t just smiling so gently, even the look in his eyes was so soft that Xia Hao wasn''t able to believe that was his own elder brother.

    Even though he wasn''t that close to his brother, he still knew a little about his character and personality but right now, he had to say that his brother looked like apletely different person. How long hadn''t seen his brother? It was at most a couple of months. It wasn''t that long, right? What happened during this time to change his brother so much?

    Then his eyes fell on Mu Chenyan and his eyes narrowed thoughtfully, it seemed, this was the change.

    Suddenly Xia Zhao came to stand in front of Mu Chenyan, blocking his brother''s eyes, as he asked, "What are you looking at her for?"

    Xia Hao opened his mouth but didn''t know what to say seeing his brother''s protective stance. He had to say, he felt a bit jealous at the moment. As he said, he wasn''t close to his brother. For no other reason, it was just that he grew close to his mother, and because of that, he was distant from his brother.

    "Oh, it''s nothing," replied Xia Hao. "I was just wondering how you''re here. I mean, did youe to see Mom and Dad?"

    "No," answered Xia Zhao. "Why would I be here to see them?"

    "Didn''t you get Dad''s message?" asked Xia Hao tentatively.

    "I usually ignore his messages," replied Xia Zhao very calmly.

    Xia Haoughed awkwardly. Of course, he knew that his brother ignored the messages from home. It was nothing new. But who could control him? He was already so old. And even when he was young, their parents couldn''t control him.

    But he still had a bit of wishful thinking that his brother might havee here for the family dinner. But it seemed he was really overthinking again.

    "Then it''s really a coincidence that we meet here," said Xia Hao. "Are you with someone?"

    "I am."

    "Won''t you introduce us?"

    "I don''t think so," replied Xia Zhao.

    Xia Hao was a bit disappointed when he heard that, "Oh... Then I''ll leave." He wanted to enter but stopped and hesitated to speak for a moment before saying, "It''s good to see you, brother. And you look very good when you smile."

    Watching him go, Mu Chenyan patted Xia Zhao''s shoulder, "What happened to Mr. Polite? When did you start treating people like that? And who was he?"

    "My younger brother."

    "He is your younger brother?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Then why did you speak to him so dryly? That''s so not like you. Don''t like him?"

    "Why won''t I like him?" asked Xia Zhao.

    "How would I know? Only you can answer that question. Why don''t you like him?"

    "It''s nothing like that," said Xia Zhao. "It''s not that I don''t like him but we aren''t that close either."

    "And why is that?"

    "Why? Are you getting curious about me now?"

    "Why? Can''t I be curious about my boyfriend?"

    Xia Zhao smiled, "What was that? Say it again?"

    Mu Chenyan almost rolled her eyes at him but held back. Instead, she pinched his cheeks and said, "I said, I have the right to know everything about my boyfriend. Don''t you think so, boyfriend?"

    "Who am I?"

    "My boyfriend."

    "It sounds way too good. Can you say it again?"

    "Boyfriend."

    "Once more!"

    "Are you looking for a fight now, Zhao?" asked Mu Chenyan in annoyance. "I''m not saying it again."

    "Oh,e on! It''s not every day I get to hear that. Can''t you indulge me once?"

    "I already did. You''re just getting excessive just because I''m giving in."

    "How can I be excessive? I have such a teeny-tiny wish."

    "Okay. My boyfriend has lost his mind now."

    "I''m more than happy to announce that I''ve lost my mind. But you gotta remember that title."

    Mu Chenyan gave him a helpless look, "It''s just a title. Boyfriend. What is wrong with you? Would you ascend to heaven if I called you husband one day?"

    "Oh, wait! I think I''m already ascending."

    Mu Chenyan punched his arm while he chuckled.

    "Aren''t you guys having fun, eh?"

    Hearing that familiar voice, Mu Chenyan lost the yfulness and stood up straight to smile at her dearest Elle, "Baby, when did youe?"

    "When you guys were flirting," answered Raelle with a nk look on her face.

    "We weren''t flirting," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Oh? I''m not blind. And I''m not that oblivious to the thing called flirting too. After all, I''m master of that by now."

    Shui Xian had to hold her hand to stop her from continuing.

    "What are you both even doing at the door?" asked Raelle.

    "We were waiting for you," replied Mu Chenyan.

    "Really?"

    "Really," answered Mu Chenyan.

    "I don''t believe you," said Raelle lightly.

    "Elle, you don''t trust my words?"

    "I don''t trust the words of people who are in love."

    "You are in love too," reminded Mu Chenyan.

    "And that''s why I don''t trust my own words these days. See? I nned to leave the office at 6 today but once Shui Xian came around, I couldn''t keep my word. After all, once he came around, we got busy..."

    Before she could continue Shui Xian pulled her away saying, "We''ll see you guys inside. Enjoy!"

    "Why did you pull me?" asked Raelle.

    "No need to share everything, wifey."

    "Oh." Although she wasn''t very happy with not being able to share, she still gave in since Shui Xian said so. Anyway, she made her point clear. Didn''t she? Once you are in love, your ns keep changing and you can''t trust your own words. If it was before, she''d never waste her time ying around in her own office but would have left right on time as she had nned.

 Chapter 1215: Take A Stance

    Chapter 1215: Take A Stance"Raelle is here!"

    "There was a need to announce that?" asked Raelle to Xiang Weimin.

    "Of course! When esteemed people enter, you need to say it out loud."

    "Brother, don''t talk."

    Grandfather Xiang looked at Mu Chenyan and Xia Zhao who came right after Raelle and Shui Xian. So, he asked, "What were you two doing outside?"

    "Flirting," the answer came from Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan gave her a look, "Elle, I told you, it wasn''t flirting."

    "I only believe in what I see," answered Raelle.

    "You couldn''t find a better ce to flirt," Grandfather Xiang said. "You had to do it at the entrance?"

    "Elder Xiang! You also don''t believe in me?"

    "Raelle''s words sound much more believable to me right now." He paused and, seeing Mu Chenyan''s expression, added, "In fact, we don''t mind you flirting. Forget it. I won''t even mind the ce. You can do it wherever you want."

    "You are ganging up on me now?"

    "Nope," answered Raelle and Grandfather Xiang simultaneously.

    Mu Chenyan narrowed her eyes at them, "You grandfather and granddaughter duo are really getting out of hand. I''ll deal with you both."

    "Oooh... I''m so scared!"

    "Elder Xiang!"

    Grandfather Xiangughed at her reaction and raised his hands in surrender, "Okay. I won''t do it again. Isn''t that enough?"

    "What''s my nephew doing out there? And who let him stay with the Major? What if her silliness rubbed off on him?"

    Xiang Weimin pursed his lips before saying, "They are having an information exchange."

    "Who is sharing the information?" asked Raelle. "I refuse to believe that Major is the one sharing information."

    Xiang Weimin smiled, "She really isn''t the one. She is ying the role of an enthusiastic listener today."

    "That''s good. Then you leave her with Justin more. It''ll help in cultivating some patience in her."

    "I''ll listen to you."

    "Isn''t it too much to discredit my girlfriend like this while she isn''t here?" asked Zhai Yanjun as soon as he entered.

    "Are you gonna stand up for her?" asked Raelle.

    Seeing her, Zhai Yanjun lost half of his momentum and sighed, "I want to. Can I?"

    "Try it."

    Before he could say anything, Xiang Wai''s voice came, "What''s going on here?"

    "Your boyfriend is trying to take a stance for you," said Raelle.

    Xiang Wai looked at Zhai Yanjun with a bit ofplicated emotion and part sweetness as she said, "I appreciate the gesture but let''s not do it in front of my family. Even I don''t have the courage to stand up for myself in front of these people."

    "You''re making it sound like we are bullying you in this family,"mented Raelle.

    "How is that possible? I have the best family."

    "Don''t lie. We are not considered the best."

    Xiang Wai rolled her eyes, "Just because we don''t fall in the definition of the ''supposed'' best family doesn''t mean we aren''t the best. Whatever we are, at least, I think it''s the best."

    Raelle turned to finally look at her and said, "Spend a little more time with Justin from now on."

    "Why?"

    "I feel like his intelligence is getting to you."

    Xiang Wai''s lips twitched, "Are you saying that usually, I''m a fool?"

    "I didn''t say it. But I can''t possibly stop you from admitting it either."

    "Okay, okay! Everyone is here. Just take your seats already."

    With that order from Grandfather Xiang, everyone found their seats. Only Justin was left by Raelle''s side as he excitedly greeted her and told her what he did today. He shared his experience look genuinely happy.

    "Do you wanna sit with me to eat?" asked Raelle.

    Justin hesitated and looked over at Xiang Weimin before shaking his head. "I''ll sit over there," he answered as he pointed towards Xiang Weimin.

    Obviously, everyone was more than happy to let him do so after all, it only meant his bond with his father was getting stronger and stronger.

    "Dad, what are you doing here?" asked Zhai Yanjun to his father.

    "If you can be here, why can''t I be?" asked Zhai Kuijun in return.

    "I have a proper title," replied Zhai Yanjun. "I''m Wai''s legitimate boyfriend. What are you?"

    Zhai Kuijun gave an angry look to his son and wanted to bite off a piece of flesh right now. This son was really bing more and more hateful.

    "He has thick skin, that''s why he is here," said Mu Chenyan.

    Zhai Kujun knew that no matter what this person would definitely speak. She was really the biggest hurdle in his rtionship right now. She was always looking for a way to jab at her. But he couldn''t do anything about her either. He could say a lot but he really couldn''t at the same time.

    After all, if there was a person who loved and cared about Yue Yue without expecting anything in return, it was Mu Chenyan. And he knew what and how much she had done for Yue Yue. How could bring himself to even raise his voice at her or say a word to her?

    Wouldn''t that be asking for more trouble?

    Even Yue Yue won''t let him see the end of it if he said anything to Mu Chenyan.

    "I''m not thick-skinned, I''m also a legitimate pursuer," said Zhai Kuijun.

    Xiang Hulin snorted at his words.

    Zhai Kuijun gave him a look, "What? What are youughing at?"

    Xiang Hulin shook his head and said, "I''m just enjoying myself."

    "Seeing my predicament?"

    Xiang Hulin nodded without any hesitation.

    Grandfather Xiang coughed to get everyone''s attention, "What are you all doing? It''s okay to act like this in normal times. But how can you do it right now? That too, in front of a child. What impression would you leave on him? Is this what he is gonna learn from you all? Behave like adults. Even Justin is more sensible than all of youbined!"

    "The younger the generation, the higher their status,"mented Raelle.

    Grandfather Xiang looked at his granddaughter helplessly, "I wasn''t talking about you."

    Justin was looking at everyone very curiously. Whether he understood everything happening around him or not, he definitely was paying attention to everything and everyone in interest. It was rare for him to see such a lively scene. Even though everyone was talking against each other, none of them had any malice.

    Even a child like could him tell that they were really just joking and teasing each other. Justin found it very interesting. He drank the juice that Xiang Weimin handed to him while enjoying the scene around him.

    He neither had any stage fright nor did he feel any shyness around these people. All of them talked to him gently and lovingly. He could feel their kindness towards him which made him even more confident.

    "Chenyan, ask them to serve the meal."

    "Yes!"

    Mu Chenyan pressed the button to ring the bell. Once it was done, she looked around and said, "Haiz! In this room full of people, I can still feel the void. My poor godson."

    Xiang Wai rolled her eyes, "Aunt, I think it''s good he isn''t here." She was more than happy that Hyson wasn''t around. In fact, she was the only person in the room who was happy that he wasn''t here. After all, Hyson only had a beef with her. Who else didn''t love him in this room apart from her?

    Zhai Yanjun held her hand, "How can you say that? My brother is so nice." He was obviously the big brother who wanted to say how good his brother was. But the other person was his girlfriend so he still had to speak cautiously. He could only tread carefully between these two people. It was so tiring.

    "Only to you. No, he isn''t even nice to you. Only you think he is nice with your big brother filter on your eyes."

    "Wai, my son is really not that bad."

    "Uncle, you also have a thick filter on your eyes. Get rid of it as soon as possible. Otherwise, it won''t be good."

    "Don''t you have a lot to say about my best friend just because he isn''t around?" asked Raelle. "Would you like to repeat yourself once he is around?"

    Xiang Wai turned her face, "Why can''t I? Huh? Do you think I''m scared of him? I ain''t scared of no one!"

    "Everyone has a problem with someone in this room," Mu Chenyan rubbed her forehead.

    Xia Zhao patted her head saying, "I think it''s alright. It''s lively like this. Don''t you think so?"

    Mu Chenyan looked into his eyes and could only silently agree with him. Soon, the server brought one dish after another to serve and filled the big round table instantly with a wide array of food. The color of the dishes was pleasing and the aroma was tempting. Everyone finally stopped throwingments around and focused on the food in front of them.

    Even if they had to say something, they kept it in for a while and only focused on the meal.

 Chapter 1216 Faint From Hunger

    Chapter 1216 Faint From Hunger

    The meal started with the appetizers; Dim sum tters, crispy spring rolls, and Sichuan cucumber sd. Whether it was the assortment of steamed dumplings and buns, delicate spring rolls filled with mixed vegetables and served with sweet chili dipping sauce, or even the refreshing cucumber tossed in a spicy Sichuan dressing, these appetizers were well received by everyone. There was something that suited everyone''s taste perfectly.

    This showed how much Mu Chenyan was familiar with everyone in this room. No matter how long she knew them, she could perfectly tell what suited their taste. If there was someone about whom she didn''t know anything, it was her own ''freshly-baked'' boyfriend, Xia Zhao.

    But that was no longer a problem too. Because now, she could just ask him what he wanted instead of letting him eat whatever she ate. Not like he''d everin about that too.

    Not only the appetizers showed her knowledge about the people''s tastes but also the main course which included; Kung Pao Chicken, Mapo Tofu, Steamed Whole Fish, and stir-fried seasonal greens along with hot and sour soup, Yangzhou Fried rice, and Dan Dan Noodles. Of course, Mu Chenyan wanted to add the Beijing Roast duck too but Xia Zhao held her back telling her that it was already enough to have this much.

    "I think I''ve lived in this city the longest," said Shui Koshing. "Yet, I had no idea about this private kitchen. How did you even find this gem, Chenyan?"

    Mu Chenyan gave him a smug look, "Only gems can recognize others of their kind."

    "I asked a simple question. Didn''t ask you to show off."

    Mu Chenyan drank the fragrant Jasmine green tea leisurely before answering him, "I learned about it from a friend."

    "You and your social circle are out of my understanding."

    "I''m not something everyone can understand," she said.

    "But the one beside you can understand you very well," said Shui Koshing. "Am I right?"

    Mu Chenyan looked at Xia Zhao who was sitting beside her and pursed her lips refusing to answer since there was only one answer; of course, he understood her very well! Was there even a need to ask that?

    "Don''t tell me, it''s this friend who told you about this ce," Shui Koshing raised his brows at her inquisitively.

    Mu Chenyan cleared his throat, "He did. So what?" She paused and then said, "In fact, I think he lived here longer than you."

    "Technically, I don''t live in this city," Xia Zhao finally said something. And he was telling the truth too. He lived a little outside the city in a quiet ce far from the busy life of the city.

    "So, how do you know about this ce? Yue said you are an amazing cook yourself. I don''t think you''re the kind of person who eats out frequently," said Shui Koshing.

    "A business partner brought me here once," answered Xia Zhao. He obviously didn''t deny that he really didn''t eat out that frequently. It was a very rare thing for him. After all, he only had to cook for himself. How hard could it possibly be?

    "Don''t just look at Zhao''s silence. He is a very resourceful person,"mented Xiang Hulin.

    "Aunt, I like these sesame balls," said Xiang Wai. "These crispy and chewy glutinous rice balls are filled with ck sesame paste. It''s delightful." She looked at Zhai Yanjun, "Share your mango pudding with me. I want to taste that too."

    "Wai, eat what''s in your own bowl. Don''t stare at others'' bowls," said Xiang Weimin.

    "Ge, it''s not like I asked you for it. I''m asking my boyfriend. And he has no problem with my request. Why are you talking so much? You also shared your sesame ball with Justin. Don''t think I didn''t see that."

    Xiang Hulin''s lips twitched seeing these two. Well, when they did this, he couldn''t bring himself to doubt that they were really his own. They really learned it all from him. After all, he used to do the same with Mu Chenyan. It only changed now a little since they are old.

    Then he turned his eyes towards Raelle who was eating the mango pudding silently. She didn''t care about anything happening around her as if it didn''t concern her. As if she was in her own bubble. In fact, he knew that she could listen to everything around her but she purposely didn''t speak a word.

    And the other person who was as unconcerned as she was, was his grandson, Justin. This little boy was also enjoying his dessert.

    Suddenly, Raelle''s phone vibrated. Since she had ced it on the table, everyone could see that she was getting a call. She didn''t pay any attention to that either. Only after she put down her bowl did she pick up the phone and connected the video call.

    "Why are you so slow?!" came an angry roar. "I told you a million times to always pick up my call at the first ring just like I do. You know rtionships are all about reciprocity. How can you expect me to pick up your call at the first ring if you won''t do the same?"

    "I don''t expect you to pick up my call at the first ring," answered Raelle. "Did I ever ask you to do so? Only you''re so picky. What can I do about that?"

    "A person like you doesn''t deserve a friend like me."

    "Oh."

    Hearing her nd response, Hyson growled and along with him, his stomach also growled.

    "You didn''t eat?"

    "No. I just came back from the set," said Hyson sadly. "Did you eat?"

    "Why else do you think I didn''t take your call? I was busy eating," said Raelle and then she even changed the direction of the camera to show him the almost finished dishes on the table and she even announced the names of the dishes she ate tonight making Hyson gulp.

    Since she wasn''t wearing any headphones, everyone could hear their conversation very clearly and they could also see that Raelle told him what they ate on purpose. She was really torturing Hyson who was already hungry.

    "Hey! Don''t do that to my poor godson!" said Mu Chenyan.

    Hyson made a sound like he was about to cry, "You cruel best friend! What did I do to deserve you as my best friend?"

    "I believe you did a lot of good deeds."

    "No! I feel like I did a lot of bad deeds that''s why you are here as my best friend."

    "Whatever you say."

    "Yanyan! Ellie is bullying me!"

    "Whine. Whine a little more. I''ll see what Yanyan can do for you."

    Both Mu Chenyan and Hyson changed their expressions because they both knew that Mu Chenyan could do nothing to Raelle Xiang.

    "I''ll go to eat myself," said Hyson. "Don''t think you can make me jealous." But before he could leave, he had to run back saying, "Damn it! The universe is against me now. There are so many reporters outside the hotel. What the hell are they doing?"

    "I know!" came Shui Xian''s voice. "Your movie''s supporting actress is caught in a dating scandal. So, that''s why there are so many reporters there."

    "Xian Ge, how do you know that?"

    "I own an entertainmentpany now. I need to have some knowledge of current affairs. Besides, this is the trending topic right now."

    "Just go to the hotel''s restaurant," said Raelle.

    Hyson made a face and finally scummbed to his fate. He sighed heavily and said, "Why are you guys out on dinner?"

    "Yanyan called us out for dinner," said Raelle.

    "I did not expect this from my godmother. You betrayed me so soon!"

    Mu Chenyan chuckled and said, "I did not. It was a very impromptu n. Trust me. How can I leave you aside on purpose? How? Not possible!"

    "Forget it. I won''t say anything to you. In case, my mum starts nagging me again."

    "I think she does have something to say," said Raelle.

    "Don''t turn the camera towards her. I don''t wanna hear what she has to say right now. I''m too hungry and I don''t wanna fill my stomach with her scolding."

    Yue Yue rolled her eyes, ''As if anyone can scold you.''

    Raelle conveyed her words to him, "I don''t know about anyone else but you sure can, mum! But I''m very happy that you''re forgetting me recently. I guess, I''m not that important anymore."

    "Stop wasting my time. Why are you calling?" asked Raelle.

    "I''m wasting your time? Is this a way to talk, bestie? Respect me a little! I need some respect."

    "When did you respect me? Didn''t you just say it''s all about reciprocity?"

    Hyson didn''t expect her to throw his own words back at him. Well, it wasn''t all that unexpected either. He could only sigh and say, "I''ll call youter to tell you why I called. You''re busy right now. And I''m gonna go eat something now before I faint from hunger."

 Chapter 1217 I Said, Please!

    Chapter 1217 I Said, Please!

    Raelle find it a bit odd that Hyson hung up the call as soon as he said that he would. Even without telling why he called. Although most of the time his calls were for useless purposes, it didn''t mean he never had a serious purpose. So, she was wondering what he was calling for this time.

    As for why he didn''t speak, either he was too hungry or he didn''t just want to say anything when he realized that she wasn''t alone. And she was more willing to believe that it was the second reason. After all, she still knew her best friend this much to understand that he could always skip a meal if it meant he gets to annoy her. So, when he chose food over her, it only meant she wasn''t alone so he couldn''t do the annoying.

    "Did he just call to remind everyone about his existence?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "He doesn''t have to do so," replied Raelle. "If he is already on your mind when he is not even in the room, that means he doesn''t need to remind you of anything. He''s already between us."

    As everyone was relishing in the aftertaste of the meal, Mu Chenyan stood up to announce, "Okay. So, we gathered here tonight for some important matters."

    "Just sit down, Chenyan," said Grandfather Xiang. "No need to stand up to talk. You already have everyone''s attention."

    Mu Chenyan didn''t feel embarrassed, she sat down calmly and told everyone, "So, first of all, we have a little guest here. Give him a big round of apuse."

    "It is necessary?" asked Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan gave her a look, "Yes, my darling Elle. We must make him feel wee here."

    So, with everyone, Raelle also pped for Justin, rather unwillingly.

    Justin looked at everyone with his big eyes, seeing everyone''s attention on himself and as they all gave him a round of apuse, he felt a bit shy getting so much attention.

    "How adorable! I want to pinch his cheeks!" said Xiang Wai.

    "Keep your paws off of him," said Xiang Weimin.

    "Ge!"

    "What, Ge? I''m serious! With your pinch, will he be able to survive? Don''t you have any self-knowledge regarding your strength?"

    Xiang Wai gaped at him, "Ge, you dislike me now? You''ve changed. Oh my God! You have changed! I can''t believe this."

    "I don''t see anything wrong with what he said though,"mented Raelle and before Xiang Wai could say anything, she went on, "But my reasons are different. Whether your strength is good or bad, doesn''t matter. He is a kid, not a toy for you to y with. So, you should keep your hands to yourself."

    "I hate you both," said Xiang Wai as she crossed her arms in front of her chest and puffed up her cheeks.

    "Both of you should stop finding faults with our Wai," said Grandfather Xiang. "There is nothing wrong with her. She is just a normal person with normal thoughts. Anyone who will see a cute kid on the road would wanna pinch their cheeks or poke their face which looks like steamed buns. There is nothing wrong with that."

    "Are we wrong?" asked Xiang Weimin and Raelle simultaneously.

    "No, it''s just that your thought process is different from Wai..." ''Who happens to be the most normal person in this family.'' But Grandfather Xiang didn''t voice out hisst thoughts.

    Mu Chenyan cleared her throat and added, "Okay. Moving on. The next announcement is that Wai will be joining the Military Academy as an instructor!"

    "Does that concern us?" asked Raelle.

    "You as her sister should know about it," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Oh." Then she looked at Xiang Wai, "Didn''t you love your special Armed Forces?"

    "I still do," answered Xiang Wai. "However, it doesn''t allow me to have much time for myself and for the people around me. Thanks to you, I got suspended and realized the fun of being free."

    "I''ll take that thanks happily."

    Xiang Wai smiled at her, "Anyway, so I decided to take the offer from the Military Academy. My old instructor had been asking me to join the Academy for years. And this time, I went around to see and decided to take on the offer."

    "You really won''t regret it," asked Xiang Hulin.

    "Papa, you said life without regrets is not possible. You just gotta learn to live with those regrets. Besides, I can''t always be stuck in one ce. what I''m about to do isn''t much different. I''ll still have to take new recruits to some deserted ind for hellish training or something. I want to have some fun."

    "Some people want to be superheroes and some will be viins."

    "What does that mean?" asked Xiang Wai to Raelle.

    "I guess your instructor must have really tortured you back in the day. That''s why, now, you want to follow in his steps to be the viin to understand what satisfaction he felt when you were suffering under his hands."

    Her words sounded so believable that everyone couldn''t helpughing. Even if theyughed lowly, they couldn''t hide their smiles. Even Zhai Yanjun couldn''t help it.

    Xiang Wai didn''t mind theirughing, she just said, "Actually, you''re not all that wrong. I do want to make people suffer! HAHAHA!"

    "Was that your viinousugh?" asked Raelle.

    "Yes!"

    "Practice more or don''t do that again, please!"

    "Pfft!"

    Seeing how everyoneughed louder, Xiang Wai red at her, "Whose sister are you?!"

    "Unfortunately, yours!"

    Xiang Wai could only take some deep breaths through her mouth to calm herself down.

    "Then give me some respect!"

    "I said please!" Raelle pointed out making Xiang Wai grit her teeth but she was so speechless that she couldn''t say a word right now.

    Well, who asked Raelle to be her sister? No, who asked her to be Raelle''s sister? What was she expecting? What could one even expect when they had a sister like Raelle Xiang? No, seriously! What could one even expect?!

    Xiang Wai could only take some deep breaths through her mouth to calm herself down.

    "Yes! This is how you need to calm down when your students get on your nerve in the future. Don''t be impulsive enough to beat the crap out of them."

    Xiang Weimin had the worst reaction to that as he said, "I have to say, Wai, you should learn this lesson. Because, you''re very capable of beating someone on impulse. That won''t be good on your record."

 Chapter 1218 [Bonus chapter] Not Your Courage

    Chapter 1218 [Bonus chapter] Not Your Courage

    "You know what? I don''t wanna talk to you both," said Xiang Wai. "You can say whatever you want. I don''t mind. I''m so unbothered!"

    "You sure about that unbothered part?" asked Raelle.

    "You better not say anything else!"

    Raelle decided not to say anything else or else, Xiang Wai might really blow up. That won''t be good.

    The elders looked at their interaction but didn''t interrupt them at all.

    "Kids..." tsked Mu Chenyan in a low voice.

    "Don''t forget that, these are the ''kids'' you are most proud of in your life," said Xia Zhao.

    Mu Chenyan didn''t deny that.

    "By the way, Justin, you came alone? What about your mom?" asked Raelle.

    "Mom has gone out with her cousin who just came back from her honeymoon," answered Justin very clearly in his sweet and glutinous voice which could melt anyone''s heart.

    Raelle didn''t think there was anything wrong with what he said. He knew all the details he was supposed to know. And he was able to convey his thoughts too.

    "Where did she go? Will she be home tonight?"

    Justin shook his head, "I''m staying with him." He pointed at Xiang Weimin.

    "Then we''ll be neighbors tonight."

    Justinughed at that showing his small teeth to her.

    "Don''t forget to ask him to tell you a bedtime story," reminded Raelle.

    Justin looked up at Xiang Weimin with bright eyes. The light in those big eyes was so dazzling that Xiang Weimin couldn''t even bring himself to say no. He could only nod his head in agreement, "Of course, I''ll tell you a bedtime story."

    Even if he had no experience doing it, he had to do it now that his son asked for it. Who asked his sister to dig a pit for him? And a pit that he had to willingly jumped in too. Thinking about this, he looked at Raelle who looked very innocent. As if she didn''t do it on purpose just now.

    He had to say, this sister was bing more and more difficult.

    "Elle!"

    "Hm?" Raelle looked up at Mu Chenyan.

    "Don''t you have something to tell me?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Raelle shook her head, "Nope. I don''t think so."

    "Nothing important happened today?"

    "Nothing," responded Raelle.

    "Really?"

    "Why are you so persistent? I told you nothing happened."

    "Now, you are gonna hide things from me?"

    see you today?" asked Mu Chenyan with a smile but those who knew her could tell that she was actually very angry right now.

    "As long as it''s important, I don''t hide anything from you," answered Raelle.

    "Then why didn''t you tell me that your aunt came to your office to see you today?" asked Mu Chenyan with a smile but those who knew her could tell that she was actually very angry right now.

    "Did youe to my office?" asked Raelle. "Or did Yuee to my office? I don''t think you guys came though."

    "Obviously we didn''t go. You know I''m not talking about us."

    "Chenchen," Xiang Hulin interrupted her. "She means to say that only you and Yue are considered her aunts. Since you didn''t go, she isn''t sure what aunt you''re talking about."

    Mu Chenyan momentarily faltered. It''s not like she didn''t know this. Why did she suddenly have brain damage? He smile awkwardly and said, "I''m talking about Song Suirong. Didn''t shee to your office?"

    "Wow! My security team is very diligent,"mented Raelle. How could they not be diligent? They even had the time to inform Mu Chenyan regarding the flies that appeared around her? If this wasn''t diligence, what else was it? "Who is Song Suirong? Do I know her? I don''t. Is she my aunt? I''ll repeat the same thing I told her, even Song Xin''ai doesn''t get to say she is my mother. Which radish is Song Suirong to call herself my aunt? Is Raelle Xiang someone you can casually get rted to?"

    "I don''t see anything wrong with what Yenay said," said Grandfather Xiang.

    "Elder Xiang, you don''t see anything wrong in her anyway," replied Mu Chenyan.

    "As if, you do."

    Mu Chenyan respond to that but just sighed, "Shoulldn''t you have told me about this?"

    "Is this important enough for me to tell you? I don''t think so. Do you think that woman with a loud voice is important enough for me to even remember then you''re wrong? If you didn''t talk about it, my mind would have already thrown her into the trash bin folder of my brain."

    "If she heard that, she might have a stroke from anger,"mented Xiang Wai. "Wait! Raelle, did you really give her a stroke? Tell me! I have faith in you."

    "She didn''t give her a stroke but Song Suirong did make a visit to the hospital after seeing Raelle," told Xiang Hulin.

    "She did?" asked Xiang Wai, a little too excitedly. "Hahaha! Serves her right! She will think beforeing to see you again!" Xiang Wai gave Raelle a thumbs up, "That tongue of yours, really doesn''t disappoint. I''m suddenly proud of you."

    "I don''t need you to feel proud of me," replied Raelle.

    Xiang Waiughed andpletely ignored what Raelle said. As long as she thought that Raelle was able to send Song Suirong to the hospital, she was more than happy to ignore how Raelle pissed her off just a short while ago. Who said, this sister was not cute? Her sister was so adorable!

    Anyone could tell that Xiang Wai''s feelings took a drastic turn within half an hour but no one was actually surprised about that either. Who asked Raelle to be so capable?

    "You hate her?" asked Raelle.

    "There is no one in that family whom I like," answered Xiang Wai. "If I could, I''d pack them all up and send them to the deepest part of hell!"

    "Why didn''t you?"

    "Maybe because I don''t have your courage!"

    "I don''t believe that," responded Raelle. Then she looked at Mu Chenyan, "You should have more faith in me. I don''t lie to you. If I said nothing important happened, it really means that incident wasn''t important enough for me to recall or repeat it to you."

 Chapter 1219 Under Attack

    Chapter 1219 Under Attack

    "Also, if that woman really ended up in the hospital after just that, then her mental ability is too weak," added Raelle. "Next time, she should really refrain froming in front of me."

    "Some people don''t learn," said Xiang Wai. "I''m telling you this from experience, she wille again. And she won''te alone this time."

    "What? Can''t handle me alone so she retreated to bring more support?"

    Xiang Wai nodded, "That''s exactly what''s on her mind."

    "Then let her be," said Raelle. "I''ll see what she can do to me."

    Xiang Wai smiled at that, "Even I''m looking forward to it."

    "By the way, is she really Professor Song''s sister?" asked Raelle.

    "Not really," answered Xiang Wai. "If you think about it strictly, she is actually mom''s cousin. However, she was raised by our mom''s parents. And not only that, she was more loved in that family than mom."

    "I was wondering how Professor Song can have such a brainless sister."

    "You''d be surprised if you got to see the rest of them. What do they say, bad bamboo shoot in one family. Yup. Something like that. Mom is considered the bad bamboo shoot and in fact, by that I mean, she is the only odd one out in that family."

    "So, are you sure she is family?"

    Xiang Wai sighed, "I had my doubts too. But it''s certain that it''s family."

    "At this point, I think we should say Professor Song managed to cummte whatever intelligence was left in the genes of the Song family. And left nothing for the rest."

    "Pfft!" Xiang Waiughed out loud. "I really like the way you insult people. As long as I''m not the one getting dissed."

    "Well, I can see that. You seem to be enjoying this way too much," said Raelle.

    "Let me be happy. You owe it to me after making my blood pressure high earlier!"

    "I, Raelle Xiang don''t owe anyone, anything!" After that, Raelle looked at Mu Chenyan, "So, you really just used Justin and Major as an excuse to gather everyone out for a meal?"

    "What is wrong with that? A family that eats together, stays together. It''s good for bonding. See? How you all just bonded over all that childish bickering. It warms my heart to see such a lively scene."

    "Really?"

    Mu Chenyan gave her a look, "Aren''t you tired of seeing just two faces at the dinner table all your life? What''s wrong with seeing some more people? Let''s get used to it, darling. Can we do that?"

    "Can."

    "That''s good baby."

    "I''m not a kid," reminded Raelle.

    "I know," answered Mu Chenyan. However, in her mind she was thinking that she needed to be more patient and careful with Raelle than with a kid like Justin. So, it was a little more difficult and tiring. Not that she mind. "Oh, wait! I have more to say!"

    "Are you getting married?" asked Raelle.

    "No," replied Mu Chenyan. "You''re getting married."

    "Nothing new about that," replied Raelle. "So, what is it? Are you pregnant?"

    Xia Zhao almost spurted out the tea in his mouth when he heard that while Mu Chenyan''s lips twitched at her words, "Elle, look at me. I''m this old. Why would I be pregnant? Why do you even have this thought?"

    "Why can''t you be pregnant?"

    "I''m not married."

    "Who stipted you have to be married to be pregnant?" asked Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips, not knowing how to answer that. Taking a deep breath, she said, "Baby, I''m not pregnant. Okay? I''m fine with just having you."

    "Did you ask the person sitting beside you about this?"

    Mu Chenyan looked at Xia Zhao who was beside her before asking, "Why would I need to ask him?"

    "Because having a baby or not is not just your business alone. You can''t decide this alone. You need to ask for the opinion of the baby''s father."

    "Oh my gosh! Elle, why are we having this stupid discussion?"

    "It''s a very serious matter concerning your future. Why is it stupid? And if you really think it''s a stupid discussion, I can only say thattely, I''ve been into stupid discussions a lot. You can ask my husband."

    As she looked at Shui Xian, he was a bit taken aback but still said, "Whatever my wife says is never stupid."

    "You can just be honest right now," said Raelle.

    "Okay. She is really into ittely. Just go along with it. Can''t you do that, Yanyan?"

    "You''re not the one under attack right now, Xian!"

    "What makes you think I wasn''t under attack before?" asked Shui Xian. He didn''t mean anything by that but he was very clear that they were having too many stupid discussiontely. No matter who started it, they could talk for hours. On the way here, they already had two stupid discussions.

    Mu Chenyan stared at him but he didn''t back down and stared back very innocently. Then she stared at Raelle who was just as usual. Finally, she had to give in. Okay, she didn''t know why her Elle was suddenly talking about all this but she could only go along with it. There was no way around. Who told her to be Raelle''s aunt?

    "I also agree with Yenay," said Grandfather Xiang. "She didn''t say anything wrong. It was definitely not a stupid discussion but a very serious discussion. Don''t get worked up, Chenyan and think about seriously. We understand that you aren''t getting married now, but are you really not getting married forever? You gotta have this idea in your head or else, it''s better to let Zhao go. Don''t hand him around even if he is more happy to do so."

    Mu Chenyan met Xia Zhao''s eyes with aplicated look in her eyes while his eyes were too clear, without any impatience, any hesitation, any question, or even any grievance. He was just look at her like he always did. In the end, she had to look away first.

 Chapter 1220 [Bonus chapter] The Bride Has To Suffer

    Chapter 1220 [Bonus chapter] The Bride Has To Suffer

    "We should give her some space," said Xiang Hulin. "There is no hurry, Chenchen. Why don''t you say what you wanted to say."

    Mu Chenyan looked at her brother with a look of gratitude and pouted, "It''s still my Ge who loves me the most."

    Xiang Hulin chuckled at that, "You don''t need to get so sentimental about it."

    "You''re right. It doesn''t suit my cool image," said Mu Chenyan and shook off whatever just happened here. "Elle, you better not disturb me this time around."

    "Got it."

    "So, I wanted to tell you that you need to give me some time."

    "Didn''t I just give you time? I came over once you called."

    "I didn''t mean that. I mean to say that I have found a photographer for you. You need to take out some time to meet her."

    "What am I gonna do with a photographer?" asked Raelle.

    "Okay, I''m gonna remind you once more. You are getting married!"

    "I know. So? What does that have to do with a photographer?"

    Everyone around them have colorful expressions seeing the way these two were talking. Anyway, no one could say anything about Mu Chenyan''s patience. Because no matter what, she really was the one who could handle Raelle for so long without losing her mind.

    "Baby, wedding involved wedding photos."

    "They do?"

    "Yes! And you have to take wedding photos too!"

    "I do?"

    "Again! YES! You do!"

    "Oh," responded Raelle. "Can''t we skip it?"

    "Can''t."

    Raelle thought about it and decided to not argue. It was no use. Even though it was her wedding, the people sitting there had more expectations and were more excited than her for this wedding. Especially, Mu Chenyan. Even if it was for her sake, she had to go through this all.

    So, she decided not to resist.

    "But why do I have to meet the photographer?" asked Raelle.

    "To talk about the themes and locations of your wedding photos."

    "There is that thing too?"

    "Yes," replied Mu Chenyan calmly. "Not only that. After deciding the themes and locations, you need to choose the dresses for the photoshoot too. Then we have to talk to the stylist. Which one should I choose? No. We can skip that. I''ll do it myself."

    "You can find a stylist," came Raelle''s voice startling Mu Chenyan.

    "Huh?"

    "I said, you can find me a stylist."

    "Why?" asked Mu Chenyan in confusion. She couldn''t understand why she suddenly said that. This was actually a huge deal. Even more, than Raelle agreeing to hold a wedding ceremony and going through all the steps. It meant she was willing to let a stranger touch her. Just thinking about it, Mu Chenyan couldn''te back to her senses for a while.

    "If I''m going through all that trouble. I think I can take on some more," said Raelle. "But... Whoever you find, you have to make it clear that they have to use gloves before touching me. Or else, the deal is off."

    Mu Chenyan finally breathed a sigh of relief when she heard that. Indeed, even if she could ovee it, she won''t do it all at once. So, the requirement of using gloves was actually pretty normal to Mu Chenyan.

    "Okay, I''ll look into it," agreed Mu Chenyan. "Oh, this weekend. You have to go with me. You and Xian both. I called some wedding cake designers from all over the world. You have to taste test."

    "A cake?"

    "Weddings have cakes."

    "I know that one," said Raelle. "I''m not an idiot."

    Mu Chenyan said nothing about that but went on, "You have to taste test to know which cake suits your taste. What design do you want? What vor do you want and everything? It''s your wedding. I can''t choose that for you. Don''t just act like a hands-off shopkeeper since it''s your own wedding."

    "You all tricked me saying I''ll have to do nothing but just toe as the bride. Now, you want me to do so much. How can you go back on your words?"

    Mu Chenyan actually could hear a hint of grievance in her voice and it actually made her heart melt. Tsk. No matter whoes, her Elle is still the cutest of them all. But that being said, she still couldn''t give in just because of this cuteness. "I only am asking you to do things that a bride is required to do. Nothing more."

    "Why is there so much to do for a bride? I ain''t gonna be the one eating the cake. In the end, it''s gonna be the guests who are gonna eat. So, why am I working so hard?"

    Shui Xian patted her back slowly tofort her because he couldn''t do anything. Mu Chenyan wouldn''t even let him say a word. As if his opinion wasn''t needed at all. But then again, right now, his opinion was of no use. He gotta just sit there and support his wife.

    "To make your wedding day memorable," said Mu Chenyan. "Yes. The guests are gonna eat. But for years toe, they''ll remember it. Won''t you wanna give them a good memory? How would you feel if the guests didn''t like the arrangements on your wedding day? Not good, right?"

    "You''re again treating me like a kid," reminded Raelle.

    "Okay, okay. I won''t do it."

    Raelle breathed out, "Why don''t you just tell me the rest of the things I have to do as the bride? Tell me everything all at once." She came to terms with the fact that ''the bride has to suffer''. So she couldn''t just wait to be told things to be done one by one. All at once would be better for her to prepare.

    Mu Chenyan nodded and told her some things that were on the top of her mind. Listening to it all, she look at Mu Chenyan and asked, "What about the venue? Did you decide it?"

    "Didn''t you already decide it? It''s your childhood home. Did you forget?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Xian said that''s where you wanna hold your wedding. Isn''t that right?"

 Chapter 1221 Social Gatherings

    Chapter 1221 Social Gatherings

    Of course, Raelle wasn''t that forgetful. She remembered having this discussion with Shui Xian. It seemed even if she said something casually, her husband did have a habit of taking everything seriously.

    "Is it considered a destination wedding?"

    "Wow! You know about destination weddings too?"

    "Yanyan, I''m not an idiot. Why do I even have to repeat myself here? Of course, I know about this."

    Grandfather Xiang chuckled as he said, "Chenyan, you''re forgetting something. Raelle does know about destination weddings. Remember, Director James had a destination wedding and Raelle was invited. Even though Raelle didn''t attend the wedding, she did learn about destination weddings from there."

    "Ah! How did I forget that?" Mu Chenyan facepalmed. How could she forget that? Usually, Raelle would filter out unimportant matters and that''s why her knowledge of weddings was very low. But once she came across something, she obviously won''t forget.

    "You guys are really taking me too lightlytely,"mented Raelle.

    Shui Xian patted her head, "Don''t worry. I always take you seriously."

    "Right. But you just take me way too seriously."

    Shui Xian grinned in response to that remark.

    "By the way, when are you asking me to be your bridesmaid?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Who are you?" asked Raelle in return.

    Xiang Wai gritted her teeth, "You really aren''t gonna ask?"

    "I didn''t think about it. And I think we have had this discussion," said Raelle. "Besides, it''s a traditional wedding. No bridesmaid."

    "Trend has changed now," said Xiang Wai.

    "We should stick with old rules. Traditions are good."

    "Don''t make excuses with me. Just say you don''t want me to be the bridesmaid. Don''t worry, I won''t mind. I might be a bit sad. But I really won''t mind."

    "Okay. Not asking then."

    Xiang Wai clenched her chest, "You never miss, eh?"

    "Never!"

    Xiang Wai put her head on Zhai Yanjun''s shoulder and cried, "Look! My own sister doesn''t want me to be her bridesmaid."

    "It''s okay. We won''t ask her to be your bridesmaid in the future too," said Zhai Yanjun.

    Xiang Wai looked up at him, "How is that possible? I have to ask her!"

    "She won''t agree," said Zhai Yanjun very seriously.

    "She dares!"

    "I do dare," came Raelle''s answer. "Don''t ever doubt what I don''t dare to do."

    "Even if you dare to refuse, I dare to kidnap you too!"

    "What kind of an argument is this?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Why are you even fighting about this?"

    "My maid of honor is Yanyan," announced Raelle at this moment.

    "Me?" asked Mu Chenyan incredulously. "Wait! Did you ask me?"

    "Do you dare to refuse?" Raelle used Xiang Wai''s words.

    "I don''t dare," Mu Chenyan waved her hands. "I''ll be the maid of honor. It''s my honor!"

    "That sounds better."

    "Who even pick a maid of honor like this?" asked Grandfather Xiang. "You all are showing a joke to Justin right now."

    Everyone looked at Justin who was now sitting on Xiang Weimin''s legs and they both were engrossed in the educational game that Xiang Weimin specifically got for Justin. They seemed to be not there even when they were in the room. No wonder, Xiang Weimin didn''t say a word.

    Anyway, even if he heard everything, Xiang Weimin wouldn''t want to speak with his sisters. Picking a side would do him no good.

    "I guess there is no need to worry about that," said Raelle.

    "It seems so," replied Grandfather Xiang. "Anyway, you guys still stop behaving like this."

    "You know, you can pick more bridesmaids. Maid of honor is one. And I wasn''t after that too. A random bridesmaid spot can still be given to me, no?"

    Everyone looked at Xiang Wai who was still stuck on this topic.

    "Why do you want to be my bridesmaid?"

    "Because I want to be there," answered Xiang Wai. "I wasn''t there in your growing years. I didn''t get to see anything. I wasn''t a part of anything. Why can''t I be a part of this too?"

    Raelle looked at her with someplication in her eyes. She took a deep breath and said, "You submit the application. I''ll call you for an interview and we''ll see if you get to be selected as the bridesmaid."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips when he heard that while Xiang Wai looked confused.

    "I have to write an application? What should I write in it?"

    "Write about what makes you different. Have you never written a resume for a job?"

    "No," Xiang Wai shook her head.

    "Why are you so useless?"

    "Can''t help it? Before I even graduated from the Military Academy, I was the most popr candidate! Never had to write any resume!"

    Raelle gave her a look, "If you don''t know then learn it. You still have to submit an application. Or else, I won''t consider you."

    "Okay, I''ll learn. Rx! I''ll learn. I''ll definitely learn. I promise! You wait for me. What''s the deadline?"

    "Tomorrow!"

    "What? Isn''t that too soon?"

    "Why? One should know how to work under pressure. How do you think people survive in the corporate world? It''s all about meeting deadlines."

    "Your wife is persistent," said Zhai Yanjun to Shui Xian.

    "She is already giving your girlfriend a chance," replied Shui Xian. "What else do you want? Have you ever seen Raelle Xiang going back on her words? She is willing to take a step back right now. You should be content with that. Besides, your girlfriend seems too happy to have this chance, no?"

    Zhai Yanjun sighed, "Why do you think I''m not speaking here? I actually understand why Raelle doesn''t want Wai to be her bridesmaid and I also understand Wai''s stubbornness right now. I don''t think I can me either. Both have their valid reasons which we can''t possibly question because we are just people on the sidelines. They are the ones who have been through their own trial and tribtions in life and only they can understand what they went through."

    Shui Xian gave him a strange look, "Is it just me or you''re getting smarter? No, it might be a fluke this time. I refuse to believe that you''re wiser now."

    "Can you stop looking down on me?"

    "When did I do it? If I looked down on you, I''d have left you alone in all these years. But have I ever done that? No! I stood by you even when I wanted to beat you for your stupid life choices."

    "Right back at you!"

    So, it was finally decided that Xiang Wai will submit her application to Raelle who will call her for an interview after review and only after that, we''ll decide if Xiang Wai will be Raelle''s bridesmaid or not. No one would have ever heard of this method of choosing a bridesmaid. But when it was associated with Raelle, it didn''t seem all that shocking either. It was very normal if Raelle was the one doing something like this.

    "Only I''ll be going through this process?" asked Xiang Wai tentatively.

    "Don''t worry. Raelle is always very fair in life," said Raelle. "The other candidates will have to go through the same process."

    Yes, Raelle was so fair that others had to suffer through this too with Xiang Wai. However, the others only include Cloe. There was no one else on Raelle''s list of candidates. She wasn''t that close to anyone else.

    So, if Xiang Wai hadn''t started this argument. Cloe would have been selected without any problem but now, the process was longer for Cloe too. If she knew it, she might have given Xiang Wai a resentful nce. Like who wanted to even have an interview with Raelle Xiang? Wasn''t that asking for trouble?

    "Are we done here? Can we leave now?" asked Raelle.

    "Where are you going? It''s a little over 9 o''clock. Do you have to go home that early?"

    "I meant can I go out for a walk. We just had dinner. Why are we sitting here like old ancestors? We need to walk a little to digest everything. Don''t you think so?"

    Shui Xian hurriedly stood up and held her arm, "Let''s go, Wifey! We''ll go out for a walk."

    Walking them leave, Mu Chenyan looked at Grandfather Xiang, "She actually used an excuse to leave because she thought we were talking too much, right?"

    Grandfather Xiang rubbed his nose, "I think she got tired of your long list of things she had to do. Give her space and let her really breathe in fresh air or she''ll really get heated after knowing that she had so much to do for the wedding. Don''t rush her or else, you never know. What if she chose to run away?"

    "Raelle doesn''t run from anything."

    "Except for social gatherings," he reminded.

    "Right. I''ll take it slow then. I''m going out too. I heard there is a back garden here which is gorgeously decorated with fairylights. I''m gonna see it." She looked at Xia Zhao who was still sitting and said, "Why are you sitting? Am I going alone?"

 Chapter 1222 Changed

    Chapter 1222 Changed

    The person who said she was going out for a walk to digest the food only took a few steps and found a secluded corner before stretching out her hand toward her husband. "Handkerchief?"

    Shui Xian raised his brow but still took out the handkerchief he carried with him and gave it to her. Raelle took it to spread it on the ground before sitting down on the steps.

    Shui Xian smiled seeing her movements and sat down beside her without any pretentiousness. It was so hot during the day but after the sunset, the clouds in the sky became heavier. That also brought some cool breeze, making the ambiance a bitzy andfortable.

    "Weren''t you going to take a walk?" asked Shui Xian. "Isn''t that why you wanted toe out?"

    Raelle turned her head toward him, "At least, I don''t need to tell you why I wanted toe out."

    Shui Xian chuckled as he ced his arm around her shoulder to pull her closer. "It''s so not like my wife to run away from something."

    "Who said I''m running away? I''m just here to take in some fresh air and digest everything mentally. So, technically, I didn''t lie. I took a walk till here and now, I''m digesting all the information received tonight."

    Shui Xian''s smile didn''t disappear like always. Whenever he was around, his lips would always be upturned. He ran his fingers through her hair as he said, "Indeed. My wife never lies." He looked at her dotingly as he went on, "Are you really gonna put Xiang Wai through all that?"

    "Why not?" asked Raelle in return. "Am I doing something wrong? I gave her a chance. Which by the way is so not like something I''d do. I think something is wrong with me to do things that are not like me. Do you think I''m changing?" she looked into his eyes seriously. "If you recall the time we first met and now, do you think I''ve changed?"

    "Of course, you''ve changed," answered Shui Xian. "At that time, you''d never consider someone''s feelings before speaking. Now, you still don''t do it. But after speaking, you do reflect on it." He hummed to himself and added, "Also, you''re more epting of things than you were back then. Do you wanna know what''s the biggest change?"

    Raelle didn''t break their eye contact and nodded her head, "What is it?"

    He caressed the bridge of her nose with his finger as he said, "You didn''t even think about falling in love back then and now, you''re a woman in love. So, if I must say, I think that''s what matters the most and what really brought so many changes."

    "Are you taking all the credit for the change?" she asked.

    Shui Xian shook his head, "No. I did nothing. It''s all you. It''s always been you. I didn''t change you, Raelle. I never really wanted to. What I''m saying is that it''s brave of you to be willing to ept this feeling of love even though you know it can make someone very vulnerable. Despite knowing everything, you didn''t take a step back. You noticed it a long while ago that your feelings for me were bringing some subtle changes in you. However, you didn''t shy away from those changes. You didn''t stubbornly stick to those old ways. Instead, you embraced everything that life threw at you. Or what love brought to you."

    Raelle went silent and reyed his words in her mind again and again for a while. She reflected on everything and gave him a small smile from her heart. That smile blew his mind away as he leaned over to kiss the corner of her lips.

    "I think I''m bing a sucker for this smile."

    "Didn''t you say you hate my smile?"

    He sighed, "And I also said, I hate yourmercial smile. I told you, the only change I''d want in you is to get a real smile from you. And this hint of a smile you just gave me means so much to me. Because I can tell it came from your heart and it was meant just for me. How should I say it? It makes me feel special?"

    "Don''t I make you feel special at other times?"

    Shui Xian chuckled, "I feel special whenever I''m with you."

    "That was so taken from a teen romance drama or something."

    "How do you know? You don''t even watch dramas of any kind."

    "I just know it," she replied and refused to tell him how she knew it. "By the way, do you like this changed version better or the old one?"

    Shui Xian looked at her helplessly, "I like both."

    "Be serious."

    "I am serious," he replied. "Do I need to remind you that I fell in love with you before you even understand what like feels like much less love? So, how can I decide which version I like? Isn''t it all you? For me, you''re just my wife whom I love very much. Whom I want to tell every day and every minute that I love her. No matter how you are, I''d still love you."

    "That''s a very textbook answer."

    "Baby, what else am I supposed to say? Now, you''re not even satisfied with my answers? Am I bing so useless? Come on! You can''t possibly be getting bored of me, right?"

    Raelle held the cor of his shirt and pulled his face closer as she said, "Do you think I''d be willing to go through these wedding preparations sessions if I was bored of you?" Shui Xian didn''t reply and just looked at her face. "Do I have to say I love you?" He nodded hurriedly. "Why are you like a kid? Don''t you already know that?"

    "I don''t get tired of hearing it or saying it," he responded.

    Raelle''s lips inched closer to his ear. Her warm breath sprayed on his sensitive ears making his body feel restless and heated up. He had to do a lot of work to suppress the heat and while he was still trying, she made the mes burn wilder when she whispered in a low and seductive voice, "I. Love. You. Xian." She enunciated every word with extra effort.

 Chapter 1223 [Bonus chapter] Distrustful

    Chapter 1223 [Bonus chapter] Distrustful

    As she pulled away, she patted his chest saying, "You better remember that. Don''t forget it."

    Shui Xian took a deep breath and fanned his face, "I hate myself for acting like a teenage boy in love around you. Argh!"

    "Is it that bad?"

    "No. Nothing is bad when you''re around."

    "Here we go again," said Raelle.

    They sat in silence looking at the sky where you couldn''t even see a single star tonight because of the clouds. Enjoying the cool breeze, both of them didn''t speak for a while.

    "Actually," started Shui Xian as he broke the silence. "I think you should let Xiang Wai be the bridesmaid. Usually, it''s the best friends of the bride who do it but you don''t have friends."

    "Who said I don''t have friends?" asked Raelle. "I have a friend. In fact, I really do have a friend."

    Shui Xian had a bold guess in his mind when he heard her saying that and it was proven true when she pulled out her phone and called Hyson. As the call connected, they both could see Hyson eating pasta. His cheeks were bulging like a squirrel.

    Hyson raised his chin to ask why she called since he couldn''t speak with so much in his mouth.

    "You could''ve just chewed before taking the call," said Raelle.

    Hyson held up his finger asking her to wait as he chewed faster and after swallowing it, he hurriedly said, "I''m not like you who makes everyone wait. It''s you who is calling that''s why I took the call."

    "Just to prove a point?" she asked.

    "You can say whatever you want. It''s a fact that I took the call even when I''m busy."

    "Why are you still eating? Why so slow?"

    "I don''t wanna talk about this," replied Hyson. "Get to the point."

    "Okay, so. You''re my best friend, right?"

    "I believe so."

    "Then would you like to be my bridesmaid? Oh, no! In your case, it should be called bridesman or something, right?"

    Hyson''s lips twitched and took a sip of the soda before answering, "No thanks. I don''t want this honor."

    "But you''re my only best friend," reminded Raelle. "It''s a best friend''s responsibility. How can you call yourself my best friend when you can''t even do this much for me? Ha? Tell me?"

    "Scram!" said Hyson.

    Raelle wasn''t surprised by his reaction at all but instead asked, "You really refuse?"

    "Yes! I refuse!"

    "You''re gonna leave your best friend alone on her wedding day?"

    Hyson looked around and rubbed his forehead before saying, "Ellie, you''re looking for trouble? Where did you learn to y this emotions game?"

    "You!"

    "I should p myself for teaching you bad things."

    "Do it!"

    Hyson raised his hand and really pped himself.

    Raelle''s lips made the shape of ''O'' before she said, "You''re really cruel to yourself, eh?"

    "And I learned that from you," he answered. "Now, I have punished myself. Please, leave me out of this."

    "Is it that bad being my bridesmaid?"

    Hyson chuckled, "If you were asking this question sincerely, I promise you, I''d say yes in a heartbeat. I won''t even consider my gender and I''d say yes. However, you''re not really asking me to be your bridesmaid here."

    Shui Xian gave him an appreciative smile. Even from a video call, he could tell that Raelle wasn''t serious with him. This best friend definitely was always at the top for a reason.

    "In my opinion, you should go and organize apetition. The winner will get to be your bridesmaid," suggested Hyson.

    Shui Xianughed out loud at this.

    "Xian Ge, why are youughing?"

    "How can I not? You both have simr thoughts," said Shui Xian as he shook his head.

    "Don''t tell me. You already organized thepetition," said Hyson.

    "No. I just asked them to submit their applications and we''ll start with the review and then interviews and stuff. So, your idea and mine aren''t all that different."

    "You''re really my favorite best friend! You never let me doubt that we have a heart-to-heart bond."

    "I think no one can doubt that," said Shui Xian.

    "Wait! How many best friends do you have to say that I''m the favorite one?" asked Raelle. Of course, her attention was different from others.

    Hyson sighed, "No one else. I only got you. I''m so lonely. I''m a lonely angel wandering on earth."

    "Huh! Calling you the devil would be right."

    "Okay, you get to say that. I am the devil of your life," said Hyson. "But you know what?"

    "What?" asked Raelle.

    "You are really the angel of my life."

    "Did you read it from the script?" she asked.

    "I said it from my heart. Why don''t you believe me?"

    "Raelle isn''t into believing these days," mentioned Shui Xian. "She is so distrustful of my words too."

    "What? What is wrong with you, Ellie? You''re doubting the words of the people who love you the most in this world? What a sin!"

    "I''m fine being the sinner! You both can drop it now." She didn''t want to talk to them both about this at all right now. "Why did you call earlier? Now, you can talk. Only Xian is here and you have nothing to hide from him."

    "I wanted to ask what do you want as a wedding gift?"

    Raelle stared at him for a full minute in silence, "Really? You called me for this?"

    "What else? It''s a very important question."

    "As long as you don''t give me the same wedding gift as the previous one. I''ll be happy."

    Hyson and Shui Xian both recalled the wedding gift he gave her when she got her marriage certificate and they both had to purse their lips to suppress theirughter. After a while, Hyson said, "But I think it was practical and you used it well. Didn''t you?"

    "Thank you! I did use it very well," responded Raelle without any shame making Hyson burst outughing.

 Chapter 1224 Hes Your Boss

    Chapter 1224 He''s Your Boss

    "Since you agree that my gift was practical, then another copy won''t hurt, right?" asked Hyson cheekily.

    "No!" replied Raelle. "I told you, don''t give me that kind of gift again."

    "Tsk," Hyson tsked at that. "I''m pretty sure you didn''t even use one of those gifts."

    "That thing can''t even be used as a dusting cloth," responded Raelle.

    "Yeah. Because it''s lingerie!" was Hyson''s reply. "Do you know how expensive it was? Did you leave it in the bottom of your closet to catch dust? Or did you really start using it as a dusting cloth?"

    "No, it''s still catching dust, I believe," the answer came from Shui Xian because Raelle didn''t even remember where she left it.

    "You both don''t know how to appreciate someone''s gift. It was something gave you from my heart."

    Back then, Shui Xian wasn''t familiar with Hyson so when he saw that gift, he was also a bit taken aback. But now that he was all too familiar with Hyson, he understood all his tricks.

    "It just came to my mind that Fai has already yed his role as the bridesmaid," said Shui Xian. Raelle gave him a look as he went on, "Usually, bridesmaids arrange such things to make jokes like this. So, Fai has done his job once."

    Hyson''s lips twitched, "I swear that wasn''t the intention."

    "I know," replied Shui Xian.

    "Did you really call earlier for this question?" asked Raelle. "And why do you even ask me every time what to buy when in the end, you never listen to me? You always buy whatever you feel like buying."

    "It''s a formality," said Hyson. "Do you really think I''d buy what you say? It''s just me being formal. It''s a kind of ritual. I call to annoy you and make you think what I should buy butter, I just do whates to my mind."

    "So, you already nned what are you gonna buy this time?"

    "No," responded Hyson. "I haven''t decided yet. But don''t worry, I''ll make sure to get on your never!"

    "I''m definitely not looking forward to it," was Raelle''s answer. "Did you know that there is so much to do as a bride? I have to meet the photographer. I have to choose themes, locations, and outfits for wedding photos. Can you imagine?"

    "Wow! I feel so good hearing that."

    "As long as I''m not happy, you''ll be happy, eh?"

    "How else would I be called a true best friend if I don''t enjoy the suffering of my best friend?" Hyson chuckled and added, "Anyway, you don''t have to do it alone. The groom is with you."

    "Yes, I am," Shui Xian agreed. "I''ll always go through everything with you. You''re not alone."

    "You think I''ll do it alone? Of course, you''re following me," said Raelle. "Or else, I''m out."

    "No, no. I''m here. I''m always here."

    "Well, you gotta be, Xian Ge," said Hyson. "It''s your wedding too after all. And in fact, you and I are both very clear that Ellie will be following you as a formality. The choices are all up to you. Because if you let her decide, you might not get to hold this wedding until next year."

    "I''m not that bad at choosing."

    "Yes, you are," said Hyson with conviction. "You have no idea about your bad habits."

    "Everyone has bad habits. And you have more than me."

    "I''m a bad person, to begin with. Don''t you say I''m bad at everything?"

    "No lie detected," responded Raelle.

    "Yeah. Yeah. I''m so bad. Whatever! You''re not that good of a person too." Hyson looked up at the time and said, "I''m gonna hang up now. Let''s talkter. I''ve to get back to my room and catch up on my sleep. You also go back home. Don''t wander outside sote. You kids dating these days have no sense of time and don''t know to get back home on time."

    "Scram!"

    Both Raelle and Hyson looked at Shui Xian because this came from him which surprised both of them.

    "That''s my dialogue," said Raelle.

    "Baby, I''m also yours," was Shui Xian''s response making her speechless.

    Hyson made a weird sound and said, "I better go now before I really puke out the pasta I just ate. Too much sugar in this call is not good for my health. I''ll have to do extra exercise to maintain my figure otherwise."

    "Wait!" said Raelle as she stopped. "From your figure, it just came to my mind that you look weaker than the time you left. Are you really not getting enough to eat or the sleep quality is bad?"

    "I also noticed. What''s wrong, Fai? If there is a problem tell me, and I''ll ask your agent to talk to the director or something," said Shui Xian.

    Hyson smiled at them, "Now, suddenly you both are concerned about me? There is nothing to worry about. I do look weak but that''s the intention. I''m supposed to y the role a emaciated, a bit haggard, and beaten down by the society kind of a young man. So, I''m working on losing weight."

    "What about your health?" asked Raelle.

    "There is a nutritionist here. Don''t worry. I won''t overwork myself to lose weight andpromise my health. How else would I attend my best friend''s wedding?"

    "Actually, I''m more worried that you''ll look so bad in my wedding photos."

    Hyson rolled his eyes at her and smiled, "Don''t worry, I''d still be more handsome than you."

    "We''ll see about that," said Raelle. "Take care of yourself better. Don''t look like a listless zombie with hollow cheeks at my wedding."

    "Yes, boss! I won''t let you down!"

    Raelle pointed at Shui Xian, "He''s your boss. I''m not."

    "If he is the boss, you''re thedy boss. If my boss has to listen to you, doesn''t that make you the real big boss?"

    "Agreed!" said Shui Xian. "Even I have to listen to you."

    Raelle didn''t say anything to them both regarding this. Instead, she said, "Good night, Hyson."

    "Good night!" said Hyson as he hung up the call.

 Chapter 1225 [Bonus chapter] Here For?

    Chapter 1225 [Bonus chapter] Here For?

    "Do you think he really called just to ask about the gifts?" asked Shui Xian.

    "I''m 90% sure that the problem he wanted to discuss had already been solved before we called back," answered Raelle. "So, he chose to not mention it instead."

    "That''s really something he''d do," said Shui Xian. "But I have to say, he does give practical gifts. If only, you had used the first one as we used the second one."

    Raelle looked at his face, "You really want me to wear that... That thing?"

    "It''s not a thing. It has a name!"

    "I don''t care," replied Raelle. "To me, it''s just a capitalistic way of using less fabric, tagging it with an expensive price, and calling it luxury just to fool consumers into buying."

    "Well, that''s also true," agreed Shui Xian.

    Suddenly, a drop of water fell on Raelle''s face. She looked towards the sky and all of a sudden, the rain started pouring down.

    Shui Xian was also taken aback by this sudden change and he held her hand to pull her up, "Let''s go inside."

    However, Raelle didn''t move and continued to sit there.

    "Raelle!"

    She looked at him and said, "Can''t we just stay for a while?"

    Shui Xian frowned slightly and asked, "You will get wet."

    "I''m already soaking," she replied matter-of-factly because the rain came down so fast that it had already drenched her enough. "So, let''s just sit here for a while, okay?"

    Shui Xian couldn''t say no to her. So, he sat down beside her. He continued to look at her face as her eyes were following the rain. She seemed so engrossed in watching the rain that it surprised him but he didn''t rush her. Instead, he took off his suit jacket and put it on her saying, "Don''t catch a cold."

    "It''s summer," she replied.

    "People do catch a cold in summer too. Especially after soaking in rain like this," he responded. "I seem to have noticed that no matter what changes about you, you still can''t take care of your health better."

    "What are you here for?" she asked.

    Shui Xian smiled at her with his eyes looking at her with tenderness and helplessness.

    ....

    On the other side, earlier Mu Chenyan also went out with Xia Zhao. Her purpose was clearer than Raelle''s. She really just wanted to see the garden lights.

    Xia Zhao held her hand in his own as he walked with her. While her attention was on the scenery, his eyes only had her. He seemed to be as usual. With no rush or impatience. But his face seemed a lot softer with her around.

    As they walked in silence, they suddenly ran into a familiar face who was taken aback seeing the two of them as well.

    "Uncle Song!" called out Mu Chenyan.

    She looked at Xia Zhao beside him who also called out dryly, "Father!"

    Yes, it was none other than Xia Zhao''s father, Xia Songbei. He came out to smoke and breathe in some fresh air. Who knew he''d run into his elder son whom he hadn''t seen in a very long time?

    After all, even if they lived in the same city, it was rare to see Xia Zhao even his parents. No, it should be said it might be easier for strangers to run into Xia Zhao than his own parents. He always had a reason to keep his distance from his parents. Not like he could me his son for that though.

    "It''s Chenyan," said Xia Songbei. "It''s such a surprise seeing you. You look like you''re stuck in time. Still as beautiful as ever."

    Mu Chenyan smiled slightly, "Uncle Song doesn''t look old too."

    Xia Songbei smiled kindly at her, "Uncle is old now. Even if he doesn''t look like it."

    His eyes fell on their tightly intertwined hands and something shed in his eyes. Noticing his eyes, Mu Chenyan wanted to take out her hand from Xia Zhao''s grasp but his grip was too strong and he made it clear that he was unwilling to let go.

    These small movements fell into Xia Songbei''s eyes and the smile in his eyes deepened. There was a relief in his eyes that he didn''t even try to hide. Sadly, the other two were too busy with each other to notice that expression.

    "How''s your godfather?" asked Xia Songbei. "Thest I met Brother Tian was two years ago."

    "He is doing fine," responded Mu Chenyan. "He is here. We just had dinner. Would you like to say hi?"

    Xia Songbei shook his head, "You came for a family dinner. It''d be rude for me to barge in like this. I''ll pay him a visit at home. You just let him know about this."

    "I will let him know," answered Mu Chenyan.

    "It''s good to see our Xiao Yan has grown up into a beautifuldy. If your father had been here, he''d been very proud to see you."

    Mu Chenyan lowered her eyes, "I don''t know about that."

    "But I do know," said Xia Songbei. "Xiao Yan has always been remarkable. And it''s no doubt that Wanda has done a very good job raising you. It''s sad that she left too soon."

    "I also wish she was here," she said a bit sadly.

    "Sorry! I guess I shouldn''t have mentioned your godmother."

    Mu Chenyan shook her head, "No way. Why won''t you mention her? I don''t get sad remembering her. I am happy that you remember her even now."

    "I think there''d be no person who won''t remember her," said Xia Songbei.

    Mu Chenyan smiled sweetly, "I also think no one can forget her. She was so awesome after all."

    "And she raised an equally amazing daughter like you too,"plimented Xia Songbei.

    "Uncle has be talkative,"mented Mu Chenyan.

    "It happens with age."

    Xia Zhao had a veryplicated look in his eyes when he saw them chatting to each other. What else could he do? He couldn''t pull her away from him either. In fact, if there was one thing he was really thankful to his father for, that''d be that he brought him to meet Mu Chenyan when they were younger.

 Chapter 1226 She Does That

    Chapter 1226 She Does That

    If it wasn''t for Xia Songbei''s friendship with Father Mu and Mother Mu, Xia Zhao would have had no chance to meet Mu Chenyan. Then how''d hee across this woman who had been an unforgettable existence in his life?

    And this is why even if he was usually impatient around his father, he didn''t say a word when to rush Mu Chenyan. He just chose to stay silently beside her.

    "If you say that you''ve aged, then I''d also start feeling old," said Mu Chenyan.

    Xia Songbei chuckled, "You''d be forever young."

    "No one can be forever young," replied Mu Chenyan.

    Xia Songbei looked at his son before asking Mu Chenyan, "If he dares to hurt you, you let me know."

    "Do you think that''s a good idea?" asked Mu Chenyan. Because even she knew Xia Songbei couldn''t control Xia Zhao in any way possible.

    Xia Songbei shook his head, "I might not have any control over him. But I can find people who do have control over him." He paused before adding, "In fact, the person with the biggest control over him is you."

    "Am I?" asked Mu Chenyan as she gave Xia Zhao an inquisitive look.

    "As if you don''t know that," responded Xia Zhao.

    "I don''t," she replied.

    "I''d have believed it more if your lips weren''t curled up like that and your eyes weren''t sparkling like diamonds."

    Xia Songbei looked at them with gentleness and relief. He might not be close to his elder son but he was always concerned about him. So, seeing that Xia Zhao finally had a partner and it was none other than, Mu Chenyan, he had to be the happiest person around right now.

    "When are you taking her to meet your grandparents?" asked Xia Songbei to his son.

    Xia Zhao took a moment before answering, "Whenever she is ready."

    Xia Songbei nodded his head, "They''d be very happy to meet her."

    "I know."

    Xia Songbei was putting his lighter in his pocket when Mu Chenyan asked, "Uncle, when did you start smoking?"

    Xia Songbei looked down at the lighter and said, "Not too long ago."

    "And why are you smoking?"

    "People need a reason to smoke?"

    "Yes. Most people do it under stress. Especially, at your age. You can''t possibly be trying out smoking just to look cool at this age, right?"

    Xia Songbei smiled at her words, "I can''t look cool at this age, anyway."

    "I don''t agree with thatment," said Mu Chenyan. "But you should really refrain from indulging in it. It''s not good for your health. For a long and healthy life, one should have a healthy lifestyle. I think you should know it since your parents are already considered long-lived people. You can ask them. They definitely lived a very healthy lifestyle toe so far."

    "I can''t argue with that," said Xia Songbei. "I''ll listen to you."

    "Really? That easily?" asked Mu Chenyan in surprise.

    "Who asked you to be my future elder daughter-inw?" asked Xia Songbei. "I have to give you some face, no?"

    "Well, thank you. I guess."

    "Pleasure is all mine," said Xia Songbei. "You let your Elder Xiang know that I''d being to see him soon. Now, I''ll take my leave and won''t disturb your private time." He turned to leave but stopped after a couple of steps to say, "By the way, it''s gonna rain in a while. You shouldn''t stay out for long. It''s easier to get sick if you get drenched in rain in this season."

    "Okay, Uncle Song!" Mu Chenyan sighed as she watched him leave andmented, "Your father is still as sweet as ever."

    Xia Zhao could almost read what she didn''t voice out. "And that''s why you are still unable to believe how a person like him cheated on his fianc¨¦. Right?"

    Mu Chenyan bit her lips before saying, "Yeah. I am still not able to believe it."

    "Maybe that''s why you shouldn''t judge a book by its cover."

    "Oh,e on! I''ve known him for years. I really can''t connect to a cheating man. I just can''t."

    "Forget it. Why are we even discussing it?"

    "Because that''s your father."

    Xia Zhao sighed, "He is my father but we aren''t that close."

    "But he is my Uncle Song who has loved me a lot growing up. He never broke the promises that he made to him. And he always came to see me when he said he will. How am I supposed to even assume that he is the bad guy?" Mu Chenyan was quite emotionally excited when she said it. After all, Xia Songbei had been a big part of her life growing up.

    "I didn''t say he is a bad guy. But he made some bad choices in life. You and I don''t get to judge his choices but that won''t change what he has done."

    Mu Chenyan didn''t want to continue discussing this matter so she dropped it. "When we ran into your brother earlier, I didn''t think we''d run into your father too. God forbid if we ran into your mother next, I mightmit a crime."

    Xia Zhao pursed his lips.

    "Don''t mind but I can''t handle her."

    "No one is asking you to."

    "Do you think she still hates me like she did back in the day?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "Does it even matter? You don''t have to concern yourself with her," said Xia Zhao. He rubbed her head, "Let''s go inside. It''s raining." He pulled her inside and as soon as they got under the eaves, the rain started pouring down.

    "The weather is more unpredictable than my Elle in this season,"mented Mu Chenyan.

    Xia Zhao rubbed her head, "No matter how unpredictable she is, she is still your life. You talk as if you''re very annoyed and tired but at the end of the day, you''ll never get tired of her."

    "But I am tired this time," said Mu Chenyan. "She asked me if I''m pregnant? Who does that?"

    "Raelle Xiang. She does that," was Xia Zhao''s response.

 Chapter 1227 [Bonus chapter] Good Mood

    Chapter 1227 [Bonus chapter] Good Mood

    On the other hand, when Xia Songbei went back to the private room where they had been dining, he looked visibly rxed and happy. His wife didn''t notice but Xia Hao did notice this change in his father and he did have some guesses regarding this change in his father''s mood.

    "Did your brother change his number again?" asked Lin Qiao as she looked at her son.

    Xia Hao looked back at his mother and shook his head, "No, he didn''t."

    "Then why am I not able to reach him?" she asked. "Did he block me?"

    Xia Hao lowered his head, not answering but that possibility was very high. Who asked Lin Qiao to always call Xia Zhao to talk about things he didn''t want to hear?

    "Songbei, give me your phone, I''ll try again," said Lin Qiao.

    Xia Songbei didn''t say anything but he still passed his phone to her. Lin Qiao called Xia Zhao. The phone was ringing but Xia Zhao still didn''t take the call.

    "Why is he so stubborn?" asked Lin Qiao. "This is all because of your parents."

    Xia Songbei''s eyes became sharp as he looked at her with a clear warning. "I told you a million times, don''t talk about my parents."

    Lin Qiao was slightly taken aback seeing his expression and chose to stop talking about it. She also knew that usually, Xia Songbei would indulge but once the matter involved his parents, he''d always be cruel. He never cared about her feelings at that time.

    "Also, Zhao is not a kid. He is already in his forties. He doesn''t need his mother to keep track of him all the time. He can make his decisions and he can do it very well."

    "I know he is in his forties. Why else I''m in a hurry? As a mother, I want to see him settle down. I called An Ran here today so that they can sit down together and have dinner," said Lin Qiao. "I don''t know what I did wrong. Aren''t I just thinking about him?"

    "He doesn''t need you to think about him," said Xia Songbei. "I told you many times. Leave him alone. He can do whatever he wants."

    Xia Hao silently drank wine as he was very used to this scene. It was always like this when matters involved his elder brother. His mother wanted to dictate his brother''s life and his father would never let that happen. This contradiction had long been between them. He didn''t know if Xia Zhao knew about it or not.

    But one thing he knew for sure, if Xia Zhao dide here today then it''d have been another battle considering this was a disguised blind date for his brother. And even if Xia Zhao was interested in dating, he''d never be with a person chosen by their mother. Although Xia Hao didn''t understand Xia Zhao''s strange attitude towards their mother, he was sure that Xia Zhao would never lower his head in front of Lin Qiao.

    "Hao, you tell your father. Did I do something wrong?"

    When Lin Qiao turned the direction of fire towards him, Xia Hao was taken aback and smiled awkwardly at her, "Mom, I don''t think dad would listen to me. It''s between you two. Besides, dad always tells me to stay out of your matters. So, I can''tment."

    "Why don''t you just say that you''re on your father''s side?" Lin Qiao was very dissatisfied with her son''s answer. She wanted him to stand on her side but Xia Hao was unmoved as always. He just won''t take sides. She sighed and looked at the woman called, An Ran whom she had called over today for dinner. "Ranran, Auntie is really sorry. Zhao is as stubborn as always. But you don''t have to worry. You''re still the daughter-inw I chose."

    "Lin Qiao!" Xia Songbei raised his voice. "You better stop right there."

    Even An Ran was shocked to see Xia Songbei''s reaction much less Lin Qiao. After all, An Ran had been going to the Xia family house since she was young but she had never seen Xia Songbei speaking like this to Lin Qiao. In fact, An Ran had always been envious of how much Xia Songbei always respected Lin Qiao and doted on her.

    Now, that he was suddenly angry, she couldn''t get used to it.

    "An Ran," Xia Songbei spoke to her directly. "You should be very clear about Zhao''s attitude towards you. I don''t need to tell you that didn''t like her? She liked him so much. All these years she had loved him. How could he still not look back at her? What was so wrong it''s impossible between the two of you. It doesn''t matter how much or how long you''ve liked him for. Because he doesn''t like you and he never will. He made it clear to you on more than one asion. It isn''t your first ''blind date'' organized by my wife. But did it ever work? Why are you so persistent when you know the end result?"

    An Ran clenched her fists and wanted to shout that she wasn''t reconciled with that result. How could she ept that Xia Zhao didn''t like her? She liked him so much. All these years she had loved him. How could he still not look back at her? What was so wrong with her that he wouldn''t even spare her a nce? She wasn''t willing to ept it at all!

    Now, he wasn''t just the person she liked but he had long be her obsession!

    "I''m leaving now," said Xia Songbei. "Hao, take your mom back hometer."

    "Yes, dad."

    With that, Xia Songbei didn''t wait for anyone to say anything and left directly. It was raining when he came out but he didn''t care at all. He took out a cigarette but before he could light it up, Mu Chenyan''s words rang in his mind. He breathed out helplessly and threw the cigarette away.

    However, just thinking about seeing Mu Chenyan and Xia Zhao together, he had calmed down a lot. And the earlier argument was all forgotten now. He didn''t want to ruin his mood. He was very happy just thinking about Mu Chenyan being with Xia Zhao. How could he let anything else ruin this good mood?

 Chapter 1228: Complaining

    Chapter 1228: Comining"How did you get wet?" asked Mu Chenyan as soon as sheid her eyes on Raelle and Shui Xian. "Don''t you know to get under the shade when it''s raining like that?"

    "Didn''t want to," answered Raelle.

    "Argh! Why are you doing this to me?" asked Mu Chenyan and then she ran outside. No one knew why she left so suddenly but they got the answer when she came running back with clean towels. "Here. Wipe yourself. It''s easier to get sick like this. The air conditioner is on here." Thinking that she was slow, Mu Chenyan stepped up to wipe Raelle''s hair. "When did you get interested in the rain? You didn''t even y in the rain when you were a kid. I used to coax you to step out and y in those puddles but you strongly resisted. Now, for this stupid man, you''re even willing to stand under the rain?"

    "Why are you ming Xian so arbitrarily?" asked Raelle. "It wasn''t his idea."

    "This stupid idea was yours?" asked Mu Chenyan in shock.

    "Yeah."

    "Oh my!" was Mu Chenyan''s response since she couldn''t think of anything else to say. "Do you have clean clothes in your car?" asked Mu Chenyan. "I only had towels in there."

    "Forget it," said Raelle. "I''ll change when I get home."

    "It''ll dry off by that time."

    "Isn''t that good?"

    "No," answered Mu Chenyan. She rubbed her temples, "Forget it. There is nothing we can do right now."

    "Why are you guys standing here?" came Grandfather Xiang''s voice. "No n to go back or what?"

    "We are going back," said Mu Chenyan. "Let''s go home, Elder Xiang."

    "Aren''t you going with Zhao?"

    "Why would I? He isn''ting with us. Our homes aren''t even in the same direction."

    "Yes, Uncle. I''m not going in the same direction. I''ll see you tomorrow," said Xia Zhao.

    "Tomorrow? Why?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "You''ll find out," he replied but didn''t exin anything.

    Grandfather Xiang gave a nod to Xia Zhao and looked at Mu Chenyan, "Youe with me then. Also, bring your brother. You both are going with me."

    Mu Chenyan gave him a strange look but still agreed.

    "Bye, Opa!" Raelle waved at him.

    Grandfather Xiang gave her a helpless look and turned to Shui Xian, "You take her home and let her take a hot bath. Don''t forget to give her some ginger and cinnamon tea before sleeping. Her childishness ising out at the wrong age."

    "You don''t like your granddaughter now?" asked Raelle.

    "That''s not possible," replied Grandfather Xiang. "Let''s go. The downpour is bad out there."

    "B¨¤, youe with us," said Raelle.

    "Don''t worry, daughter-inw. I had the same intention," said Shui Koshing as he left with his son and daughter-inw.

    "Where is Weimin though?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "He left earlier," answered Xiang Hulin. "It was Justin''s bedtime. So, he had to leave. Also, Kuijun said he''ll drop off Yue Yue too. They might already be home by now."

    Mu Chenyan sneered when she heard that, "That guy sure knows how to take advantage of my absence."

    Both brother and sister got in the car with Grandfather Xiang.

    "Elder Xiang, you look very happy," mentioned Mu Chenyan.

    "Why won''t I be? At this age, what can I wish for? Just to see a happy and lively family. Now, I can see both of my kids. Three of my grandchildren. And I even had a great-grandchild now. Why wouldn''t I be happy?"

    "True," agreed Mu Chenyan. "That''s something to be happy about. If you say it like that, it seems like you''re very blessed."

    "I can close my eyes with peace. What more blessing can I ask for?"

    "Father!" Both Mu Chenyan and Xiang Hulin eximed simultaneously. Obviously they were very dissatisfied with hisment.

    "Wah! It''s rare for my daughter to call me father," said Grandfather Xiang.

    "Don''t joke around. It won''t help you," said Mu Chenyan. "How many times I''ve told you to not talk about such things? I really don''t wanna hear it."

    "But I also miss my wife," replied Grandfather Xiang. "She must be waiting for me in the underworld. I think I''ve kept her waiting for too long already."

    "I think godmother would be more upset if she knew that you made me sad. You know, she loved me so much. She''d definitely take my side and tell you stay by my side."

    "She only asked me to make sure to take care of Raelle and if possible, I had to make sure you don''t end up alone in your life. Now, I am very satisfied already since her wish is alreadying true."

    "I didn''t say I''d marry Zhao," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Then what are you doing? ying with his feelings?" asked Grandfather Xiang angrily. "In our times, if you dated someone without the intention of marriage, it''d be considered hooliganism and you could get shot for that too!"

    Xiang Hulin pursed his lips while Mu Chenyan''s lips twitched, "Are you saying, I''m a hooligan?"

    "You''re no better too! People who y with others'' feelings are worse than scums! And I refuse to believe that I raised a scum with my own hands."

    "Ge, you won''t say anything in defense here?" asked Mu Chenyan to Xiang Hulin.

    Theter was under a lot of pressure suddenly and smiled awkwardly saying, "Father, I think our Chenchen isn''t like that."

    "You better not say anything," said Grandfather Xiang and Xiang Hulin shut up. "Also, you. I heard you want to retire."

    Xiang Hulin paused before asking, "Where did you hear that?"

    "I might be retired but I''m not that useless. My family didn''t get the title of the military family for no reason. I still have my own contacts. So, why do you think you''ll be able to hide it from me?"

    Xiang Hulin looked awkward, "I didn''t want to hide it from you. I just thought I''ll tell you after it''s done. But..."

    "You think they''ll let you retire so easily?" asked Grandfather Xiang. "Don''t be naive. It''s not even your age to retire yet. They won''t let you leave like this. So, get your thoughts get straight and don''t make trouble unnecessarily."

    General Xiang Hulin was like an obedient little kid before his father as he lowered his head and agreed. "Yes, I''ll keep that in mind."

    "Ge, why do you want to retire early though?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "I wanted to spend time with father," said Xiang Hulin. "I haven''t done my filial piety over the years. I can''t just let you do everything. He is my father."

    "He is mine too," retorted Mu Chenyan. "Just because I don''t call him father, do you even doubt my filial piety now?"

    "I said no such thing, Chenchen."

    "Ge, then why are you doing this?"

    "Because it''s been years," said Xiang Hulin. "Can''t I want to do something for him? I just want to spend more time with him."

    "I think you shouldn''t though. Seeing each other more will only make you suffer more. After all, if Elder Xiang saw you everyday, he''ll start despising you like he does with me."

    "When did I despise you of all people, Chenyan?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    "You told me to get out of the house and do something practical instead of always wandering around you like a bum."

    "And what was my intention behind those words, don''t you know?" asked Grandfather Xiang as he stared at her seriously.

    "I don''t care about the intention. You clearly despised my bum like appearance."

    "Father can never get tired of you, Chenchen. Even I can guarantee that," said Xiang Hulin. "But it might not be the case when ites to me."

    "Okay, you both have grown up," said Grandfather Xiang. "Go ahead, Startining. Tell me all your dissatisfaction. I''ll listen. Tell me."

    Both Mu Chenyan and Xiang Hulin stared at each other and shook their heads. They didn''t dare say another word.

    "Why are you so quiet now? Just say it. Don''t go andin to my wifeter. What if she came to my dreams to show her anger again? I can''t take her anger at this age," said Grandfather Xiang.

    "Elder Xiang," called out Mu Chenyan. "Have you really met her in your dreams?"

    "Why are you asking?"

    "Because she doesn''te to see me," answered Mu Chenyan. "I miss her too. But she neveres to say hi. Do you think she is upset with mee? Did I do something wrong?"

    Grandfather Xiang rubbed her head, "There is no such thing. You know your godmother had always been a social butterfly. Even better than you. I think she has made too many friends in the underworld. So, she hardly has time to even think about us living beings."

    Xiang Hulin also nodded in agreement, "Thinking about mother''s nature, I also think so. That''s a very high possibility."

    Mu Chenyan gave both of them a weird look and sighed to herself. She obviously didn''t believe their nonsense but this nonsense did make her forget about the sadness that had just brimmed up.

 Chapter 1229: The Rich Sibling

    Chapter 1229: The Rich SiblingThe next morning, Xiang Weimin woke up to find Justin sitting on the bed, looking at him. Xiang Weimin was a little surprised. Last night, he brought Justin home early. He not only helped him wash up but really told him a bedtime story too. Father and son slept togetherst night.

    Who knew that Justin would wake up earlier than Xiang Weimin? He actually wondered if he woke upte today but when he saw the time, he pursed his lips. It was 4:30 am. Clearly, he wasn''tte but it seemed his son was also an early bird already.

    "When did you wake up?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "Just now," answered Justin.

    "Why did you wake up so early? Do you need anything? Are you hungry?"

    Justin shook his head.

    "Then... Couldn''t sleep well on this unfamiliar bed?"

    "I slept well," said Justin. "I always wake up at this time."

    "Sleep more. You''re too young. It''s time to grow for you. Sleeping will help in growing," said Xiang Weimin as he got up from the bed. "Why don''t you try to sleep some more? I''ll wake you up in a while, okay? Even the sun isn''t out yet."

    "It''s about toe out," said Justin pointing towards the window.

    Xiang Weimin pursed his lips and sighed, "Still, go back to sleep." He put Justin back to sleep and went out for his morning training. He looked around the house where everyone was awake at this time and running about doing their own things. He shook his head as he wondered, how could his son stay asleep when this whole family couldn''t stay in bed?

    "You''re awake?" asked Mu Chenyan. "What about Justin?"

    "I let him sleep for a little more," answered Xiang Weimin.

    "That''s good but is it okay to leave him alone in the room?"

    "Don''t worry," replied Xiang Weimin. "I''ll go back to him soon. Why do I think my aunt is more concerned about my son than me?"

    "You''re not cute anymore," said Mu Chenyan. "You grew up too fast."

    "You''d say the same about Raelle even though she grew up right in front of your eyes."

    "She was cute? When? Why don''t I know?"

    Xiang Weimin shook his head and walked out. He did not want to have this discussion with Mu Chenyan so early in the morning. Outside the house, he ran into Xiang Wai who was rubbing her eyes and yawning repeatedly. She looked half asleep at the moment and it actually seemed like she was gonna sleep while standing up.

    Xiang Weimin smacked the back of her head from behind and Xiang Wai yelled.

    "Ge, what the hell was that? Be nice! I''m your only cute sister."

    Xiang Weimin chuckled, "Yeah, yeah. How can anyone be cuter than you? But what are you doing out here?"

    "Where else should I be?"

    "In the gym?"

    "Who goes there?" asked Xiang Wai. "Do you wanna spar?"

    "You sure about that? Don''t cryter!"

    "Ge, I don''t cry."

    Well, that statement came to bite her sooner than she thought because, within fifteen minutes, she tapped on his arm and said, "Let go. Let go already!"

    Xiang Weimin let go of her neck and gave her a cheeky smile.

    "You just love to see your sister crying, eh?"

    "No way. You look so ugly when you cry. Why would I like that?"

    "What did you say?" Xiang Weimin ran away while Xiang Wai followed behind him shouting, "You better stop for me! How can you call your sister, ugly? Is that something you should say? Is this what you''re gonna teach your son too? Do I need to remind you that you''re a father now? You should use words wisely. Don''t give your son a bad impression!"

    "I''d be a fool if I stopped now," he shouted back and continued to run.

    On the side of the road, they passed by Raelle who turned her back towards them and even pulled her husband to do the same.

    "What are we doing?" asked Shui Xian mysteriously.

    "We are hiding from these fools. It''d be embarrassing if people saw that I''m also their sister."

    Shui Xianughed at that and agreed silently. He had to say, seeing Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai running around the block was funny. They both had the spirit of ''sh'' in them right now as one couldn''t even see what they looked like. That''s how fast they were running around.

    But everyone could definitely hear Xiang Wai''sints.

    "Wai, stop following me!" said Xiang Weimin. "Are you like a mad dog right now? Why are you running after me?"

    "You said it yourself! I''m a mad dog. Of course, I''m after you to bite you!"

    Xiang Weimin stopped abruptly making Xiang Wai run straight into his hard back and her nose hurt. When she felt something, she stretched out her tongue to lick and tasted a familiar metallic taste in her mouth.

    "Woo! Your nose is..."

    "GE!"

    "It''s not my fault! You ran into me."

    "Who told you to stop so suddenly?!" she still put the me on him. "Give me a warning before stopping."

    "Who does that?" he asked. He pulled out a handkerchief to help her wipe the nosebleed as he added, "Why is your nose bleeding so much? I don''t think you hit that hard. Maybe it''s the heat. Are you heated, sister? Tell me!"

    "Shut up!" said Xiang Wai. "Have I mentioned that you''re bing trickier since you found your son? I want my sullen and silent brother back! Give him back! Give him back to me right now!"

    Xiang Weimin made her tilt her head back to stop the bleeding as he said, "Your brother is still here. Stop being so fussy about everything. On a serious note, I really think you''re heated. Go back and have some herbal tea. The weather is very hot these days. It can happen."

    Xiang Wai pped his hand away, saying, "Look at my red nose. It''s all your fault. Don''t shirk your responsibility now. Who asked you to have such a hard back? It injured me!"

    "Okay, it''s my fault. I''m sorry!"

    "That sounds better. What else?"

    "What do you want?"

    "How about you give me your card? I''ll buy whatever I want to."

    "Tsk. Tsk. Wai, I have a son to raise now."

    "So? Your sister is not yours anymore?"

    Xiang Weimin sighed, "I''ll give you the card when we go back. I don''t have it with me right now. Are we good now? But if you went back andined about me to anyone. Forget about the card!"

    Xiang Wai pursed her lips, "I know. I know. I know all the rules of these deals. Don''t worry. Have some faith. Wehn you''re making these underground deals, trust in your crime partner is very necessary."

    "Well, I hope I never get a dealer like you again who keeps scamming me!"

    "That''s what sisters are for!"

    Xiang Weimin gave her a look.

    "What? Don''t bring up Raelle. She is too rich. Why would she need to scam you?"

    "You talk as if you''re a pauper! Should we go and check out your investments?"

    "Those are investments. I don''t have cash."

    "Really?" asked Xiang Weimin. "Say something believable!" he sighed and raised his head to wave at Relle who very straightforwardly acted like she didn''t even see them and changed her direction. His lips twitched when he saw this and said, "It seems our sister is embarrassed of us."

    "Whose fault is it?"

    "Yours! You are the pauper here. I''m still the prince!"

    "Get lost! Is this something you can say to your own sister? Besides, Raelle isn''t like that. She gifted me a grand beach house, do you know that? She is so generous."

    "You got it too?" asked Xiang Weimin weirdly.

    Xiang Wai''s smile vanished, "Don''t tell me she gave it to you too?" He nodded his head. "You''re gonna be my neighbor? Why? Why is she doing this? Do housese in sets too now?"

    "What did you give her?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "I wanted to give her my orchard but she didn''t want it. Because apparently, hers is bigger than mine. So, I offered her something from my antique collection. She didn''t like it but she didn''t refuse it either."

    "I heard somewhere that the youngest of the family is usually the richest child in the family. I don''t know about others but it seems very true in our family. Even though we both shared the bigger part of the Xiang family inheritance. She is still the ruling party."

    "Because we went to earn wages while she became a businesswoman. Money is all for capitalists. We are just wage earners. Oh, and we also bring some honor to our country too." She looked at the sky saying, "But I''ll tell you honestly, it isn''t a good feeling when you can''t even think of a gift for your sister just because she has everything. It''s so difficult."

    Xiang Weimin patted her shoulder and agreed with her statementpletely.

    "Forget it. Money can''t buy everything anyway."

    "Ge, you''re the intelligent child. I''m the foolish one. And Raelle is the rich one. What aplete set. I think wepliment each other very well."

    "We have another one," he said.

    "Who?"

    "The dramatist!" mentioned Xiang Weimin and instantly Hyson''s face appeared in Xiang Wai''s mind and she couldn''t even deny it.

    "That''s true."

 Chapter 1230: Flatterer

    Chapter 1230: ttererWhen they were chatting, Raelle finally came to their side and said, "Why do I think you both have been talking about me?"

    Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai shared a look before Xiang Wai said, "Why? Can''t we do that?"

    "Are you talking bad about me?"

    "Why it''s not allowed?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "You can do it. Who is stopping you? But chewing your tongue behind someone''s back is not a good practice. Especially when you should be a role model as an upright, brave, courageous, and ethical soldier. So, say whatever you want in an above-board manner. Say it to my face. I don''t mind. You won''t be the first one calling me bad and neither will you be thest."

    Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin were momentarily speechless and even shook their heads at her in sync.

    "We just called you the rich kid of the Xiang family. Nothing else," exined Xiang Wai. "And we aren''t even wrong. We are just stating facts, no? We are the pauperspared to you."

    Raelle nodded her head in agreement, "Indeed, that''s a fact. Undeniable one. Who told me to be so good with numbers? It''s a talent you didn''t inherit. However, calling yourself a pauper is insulting paupers. After all, you both are nowhere near a pauper." She paused to find where Shui Xian was and seeing that he was ying happily with Coco over there, she looked back to say, "Leaving aside the inheritance from the Xiang family, you can''t tell me that you both didn''t get anything from your parents. No matter how irresponsible General Xiang Hulin and Professor Song Xin''ai are as parents, they would never wrong you both materially. And whatever they have will eventually go to you both. Apart from that, you both got the ''pocket money'' from Chenyan and Opa too. Am I right?"

    "How do you know that?" asked Xiang Wai in surprise. "Did aunt tell you?"

    "No," answered Raelle. "Every month she''ll deposit the same amount that she gave me to two different ounts. I could tell why she did it. And now that you both are here, she must have given you the cards right?"

    "Okay, we have a generous family," said Xiang Wai.

    "However," finally Xiang Weimin chimed in. "What we really meant to say was not this. This is all something we got without much effort. We got these deals because we have the surname, Xiang, we have rich parents, and an even richer aunt. We meant to say that you''re the mostpetent one when ites to money since you didn''t inherit it all. You earned most of it yourself. Doesn''t that make you the best?"

    "My bank amount doesn''t get to decide whether I''m the best or not. I was born the best."

    Xiang Weimin chuckled, "Okay. I won''t argue with that."

    "However, sometimes I do doubt whether I''m really the best. Because in my opinion, Hyson is a level above me."

    "Why would you say that?" asked Xiang Wai curiously.

    "You should know that he is very talented but he doesn''t want to be a big boss working in a bigpany day and night. So, he chose to invest. Where did he invest? In his best friend."

    "That''s you!"

    "Exactly! He always put his money on me. Whenever I started a new project, he''d conveniently go and buy a chunk of shares and forget all about it. At the end of the year, his back ount would be looking good without doing anything at all. So, technically, he just yed me around and earned money through my hard work."

    Xiang Wai pped her hands, "For the first time, I think he is a genius! Why didn''t I think of this? Investing in Raelle Xiang couldn''t be a losing project at all. I only see benefits. I learned something today." She looked at Raelle with shining eyes, "Ge, next time, I''ll also follow this. Even if this sister is rude. Since I''m the cute sister, I''llpromise. Nothing above money."

    "You''re the cute sister?" asked Raelle.

    "Why? Any doubt?"

    "I have plenty," answered Raelle.

    "I called you rude. Didn''t you notice that one?" asked Xiang Wai in surprise.

    "Nothing new about that. Anyway, I know I''m rude. So, I don''t mind you calling me what I am."

    "Wow! You''re good."

    "I really wasted my timeing here," said Raelle and turned to leave. "By the way, next time don''t run around like little kids. Or else, don''t tell people you are my siblings!"

    Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai looked at each other and gave her a sheepish smile.

    "Do you wanna go out shopping?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "Huh? Where did thate from?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "I wanna buy a new car," answered Xiang Weimin. "At least when I''m at home, I''d like to use a new car or else the next time, my little sister might really refuse to even recognize me as her brother."

    "I don''t think Raelle would do that."

    "No. But she''ll give me that pitiful look like I''m so poor. Last time, she even gifted me a brand new car after just one ride in my jeep. Can you believe it? She thought I really culdn''t buy the new car! It made me feel so useless. Like I was really making my sister''s standard down by making her sit in my old jeep."

    "You never thought like that when we went out."

    "Have you looked at your own car?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "It''s a ssic piece! Do you understand? ssic!"

    "I don''t care. It''s older."

    "Old is gold!"

    "Yeah. Yeah. Whatever floats your boat," said Xiang Weimin as he walked back home.

    Xiang Wai trotted after him while still insisting that her car was the best.

    "What''s up? What''s going on with you two? I could hear your voices when you left and I can still hear it when you came back. What are you both up to?"

    "It''s her," Xiang Weimin pointed at his sister without any hesitation and went to wake up his son.

    Xiang Wai was left stomping her foot andined to Mu Chenyan, "Aunt, he called my car old. Can you believe it?"

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips.

    "You! You also agree with him?"

    "I can''t help it. Your car is really old."

    "It''s a ssic piece. You have several in your collection."

    "Focus on the word, collection!" said Mu Chenyan. "I don''t ride them out everyday or something. Most of the time they stay in the garage and act as showpieces. That''s their job."

    "You all are looking down on my car now."

    "No, no. Wai, why don''t you go and take whatever car you want from the garage? It''s all yours. Don''t worry about it."

    "No! I''ll go and buy a new one to show you all! Anyway, my brother''s card will be in my hand."

    Mu Chenyan''s lips twitched, "You are gonna buy a car from your brother''s money?"

    "Why? Can''t I do that?" asked Xiang Wai. "He is my brother. He has to buy me a car if I feel like it. Why should I spend my own money? I have it but why should I? It feels great when you buy something from your brother''s money."

    Watching her going upstairs, Mu Chenyan had a thoughtful expression and turned to find her own brother, "Ge! Lin Ge!"

    "What? Why are you calling me so early in the morning?"

    "Ge, give me your card!"

    "Huh?" Xiang Hulin was dumbfounded.

    "Why? You won''t give it?"

    Xiang Hulin shook his head and took out his wallet then gave her all the cards.

    "I''ll take this ck one," she said as she took one card happily. "I had my eyes on a new model. I''ll buy it today."

    "You wanna buy a car?" asked Xiang Hulin.

    "Yes!" she answered. "Why? You won''t buy me a car?"

    "That''s not it," said Xiang Hulin. "Keep the card. You buy whatever you want. It doesn''t matter. I''d never stop you. I''m just surprised that you asked me for money. We have grown up together and you have asked me for plenty of things in life but you never asked me for money before this."

    "That''s because I have plenty of money," she answered.

    "Exactly, my point. You nevercked money."

    "I still don''tck it. It''s just that Wai said things bought from your brother''s money make you feel better. I want to try this theory," she told happily.

    Xiang Hulin shook his head helplessly and rubbed her head, "Then you buy more things. Don''t hold back and don''t feel bad for your brother. My money is catching dust in the bank anyway."

    "Don''t worry! I won''t make you go bankrupt," she assured him. "After all, you still have to leave something for your kids."

    "Theyeter than my sister. So, you buy without any other thought."

    Mu Chenyan hugged his arm saying, "Aiyo! Who else has such an amazing brother? Only me! Only Chenyan does."

    ''tterer!'' that was the thought of Yue Yue who saw this new version of her best friend. She never thought she would get to see this Mu Chenyan one day too. This domineering woman was always willing to take out her own ck card to swipe, swipe, and swipe for others, and was now ttering her own brother to buy her things.

    No wonder people said that Mu Chenyan was different when her brother was around. Wasn''t this different enough?

 Chapter 1231: File A Complaint

    Chapter 1231: File A Comint"Don''t just watch," Yue Yue was a bit startled when she suddenly heard Grandfather Xiang''s voice from beside her. "You should learn something from your best friend too."

    ''What am I supposed to learn?'' asked Yue Yue.

    "How to ask for benefits from your brother?" the answer came from Xiang Hulin instead. "Don''t you think you need to learn that from Chenchen?"

    "Exactly!" agreed Grandfather Xiang. He smiled at her and added, "Don''t be so reserved around him. As the elder brother, it''s his responsibility to give in to your wishes and pamper you."

    Yue Yue was actually a bit lost when she heard that.

    "Father is right. You really need to start voicing out your wishes. Brother is here to give you whatever you want. As long as it''s within my abilities."

    "It''s what he should do," entuated Grandfather Xiang. "If he can''t even spoil his own sister, what kind of a brother is he?"

    Yue Yue smiled at them, ''I never had an elder brother. So, I really didn''t know all this.''

    "Then watch Chenchen and learn," said Xiang Hulin.

    Yue Yue pointed at Mu Chenyan who was grinning while looking at the ck card in her hands without caring about what was going on around her. ''Are you sure she is a good teacher to learn from?''

    "That''s a very good question," said Xiang Hulin. He touched her head saying, "Forget it. Don''t learn. Just do what you want. But don''t forget that you have a brother too. Okay?"

    ''I won''t forget,'' she replied. She really couldn''t forget. She had never had such aplete family before. How could anyone be willing to forget even one person from this family?

    "Chenyan, are you that happy?" asked Grandfather Xiang. "I don''t think youck that ck card."

    Mu Chenyan looked up and said, "I just heard from Wai and tested her theory. It really feels good just holding my Ge''s card. I wonder how good it''ll feel after spending this money."

    "This family has gone crazy," concluded Grandfather Xiang.

    "Elder Xiang, the family was already crazy. It''s just that we lived separately so it didn''t feel that obvious. Now, that we are all under the same roof, the family doesn''t seem crazy but crazier!" said Mu Chenyan. "But at the end of the day, it''s still our family. Isn''t it?"

    Grandfather Xiang nodded in response and said, "See if they made the meat buns that Justin likes for breakfast. Forget it. I''ll go myself."

    Seeing him leaving like this, Mu Chenyan sighed, "I heard once that if the family adds new blood, the older blood bes more active and energetic. I didn''t believe it but seeing Elder Xiang, I have to say that was true. From the time he knows that there is the addition of a small kid in our family, he has be more and more active."

    ''Isn''t that good? He always looks forward to a new day these days unlike before when every day was ordinary.''

    Xiang Hulin agreed with Yue Yue, "Little sister is right. It''s good for Father to have this new mental outlook."

    "Ge, I''m the little sister. Yue is older than me."

    "Yeah. I can''t bring myself to call her older when I look at you two standing side by side."

    Mu Chenyan felt depressed just hearing that.

    "Why? Don''t you like being the older one? You always tell people that Yue is the younger one. Isn''t that right?"

    "But that''s different. How can I ept that I am no longer the little sister of my Ge?"

    Yue Yue facepalmed, ''With your level of possessiveness when ites to brother Lin, I wonder how you even let him get married back then?''

    "Hey! Why would Ie in between his marriage? Am I a fool? I''m possessive about my Ge but I know my boundaries very well. You go and ask my ex-sister-inw. I was such a good sister-inw to her. I never fought or argued with her. I never made her feel like she had less right on my Ge than me. After all, if he is my brother it won''t change the fact that he is also her husband. She had more rights than me. Of course, it felt a bit unsettling when he suddenly had another woman around him whom he loved but I am also a very understanding sister. I''d never do anything to ruin my brother''s rtionship. Isn''t that right, Ge?"

    Xiang Hulin had been silently listening and only spoke when he was prompted, "Yes, yes. Our Chenchen was an exemry sister-inw in thepound. Who didn''t say that Chenchen was the best sister-inw? She didn''t just give us space. She also helped me in court. A very good partner in crime she had been."

    "You didn''t have to say thest sentence," said Mu Chenyan.

    "I say, inws, you only added one kid to the family. Why are you all acting like a kid now?"

    The three of them looked at Shui Koshing who appeared with a strange smile on his face.

    "Do you know what scene your Weimin and Wai just made outside? They were running out, chasing each other like kids. Tsk, tsk. My daughter felt so embarrassed."

    ''Amiah isn''t here.''

    "I''m talking about Raelle!"

    ''Oh,'' was the only reaction Yue Yue gave.

    "Anyway, I just wanted to tell you to keep an eye on kids in your family. If they want to do whatever they want, that''s up to them. But think about it. What does it look like for a man in his thirties and a woman reaching her thirties running around like this? Does it look good? Even I almost refused to acknowledge that they are from my family. Do you know how embarrassed I was when those old friends in the park talked to me about them?"

    Xiang Hulin pursed his lips and then said, "Koshing, I don''t know about Weimin and Wai. But what about you? Why are you acting like a parenting to file aint?"

 Chapter 1232: [Bonus chapter] My Good Boy

    Chapter 1232: [Bonus chapter] My Good BoyShui Koshing paused when he heard that and went silent. After all, he just realized that he really was looking like such a parent. And he had never done this before in his life.

    "And that too, so early in the morning," added Xiang Hulin.

    "Brother Lin, I''m just here to tell you all this. I''m not filing aint," said Shui Koshing. "Isn''t it all because those old people had so much to say?"

    "Then don''t listen to them," suggested Mu Chenyan.

    Of course, Shui Koshing didn''t listen to them and even defended the old ''kids'' of their own family. After all, no matter what they as a family had to protect each other''s shorings. How could he just listen and not say anything in response?

    "Well, I''m done saying what I came to say. I''m leaving now," said Shui Koshing as he turned to leave.

    "Shing Ge, stay for breakfast!"

    "No way! My daughter-inw is waiting for me at the breakfast table. You see, she doesn''t eat unless we are all together."

    Mu Chenyan''s lips twitched as she watched his swagger away, "Was it my illusion or he was really shoving it at my face just now?"

    ''He was.''

    "No! When did he be like this?" asked Mu Chenyan in shock.

    ''Since he had the support of his lovely daughter-inw.''

    Mu Chenyan sighed, "Indeed. My Elle is really capable."

    "What are you all doing? The kids are down. Let''se and have breakfast now," came Grandfather Xiang''s voice.

    Everyone gathered at the breakfast table and they first went to see Justin. He was the person everyone had to ask if he had a good sleep or if there was anything he wanted etc etc.

    Justin patiently answered each and every question in a well-behaved manner. Seeing him acting so sensible, could make anyone fall in love with him. Who could resist a sensible and adorable kid?

    Only bear kids were unbearable and difficult.

    "What are the ns for today?" asked Xiang Hulin to his son.

    "I''m just sending Justin back home in a while. Later, I''ll go out with Wai to buy her a new car."

    Xiang Hulin looked at his daughter and then at his sister. Everyone wants a new car in the house suddenly.

    "Ge, you also wanna buy a new car."

    "I''ll take Justin out some day and buy the one he likes."

    "You''re the one driving it though."

    "I still would take the one he picks," retorted Xiang Weimin.

    Xiang Wai shrugged carelessly, "Suit yourself. Just don''t forget my car!"

    After breakfast, everyone went to do their own things. And Xiang Weimin told his father, he really did pack Justin''s stuff and took him out. He had to drop Justin at Tang Hebe''s ce. Although he wanted Justin to stay longer, he couldn''t go against the promise too.

    Tang Hebe only allowed Justin to stay for one night with him. They wanted to see if Justin would be fine after being apart from her and if he could adjust to this change.

    Tang Hebe had just gotten home and was unpacking her things when the doorbell rang. She went to open the door and saw Xiang Weimin. Shepletely ignored him and hugged her son whom she missed so much in just one night.

    "My baby boy! Did you miss mom?"

    "Yes."

    "Oh, what a good boy! Mom missed you too I missed you so very much!" She kissed his face and wouldn''t let go. "You didn''t disturb anyone there, did you?"

    "No, I was a good boy."

    "I know. My baby is the best," sheplimented without any hesitation. Of course, she knew her son wouldn''t bother anyone.

    "Did you have fun? Did you sleep wellst night?"

    "I had fun," he answered. "And I slept very well. I even heard a bedtime story. It was really exciting."

    "Then would you like to go again?"

    Justin thought about it and asked, "Can I?"

    Tang Hebe smiled at him and said, "If you want to. Then sure you can."

    Justin was happy to hear that as Tang Hebe patted his head lovingly. She suddenly looked up and found that Xiang Weimin had been standing right where she chose not to see him earlier. She was a bit embarrassed about not seeing such a big person standing right there.

    "Baby, why don''t you go to your room and put away your stuff?" she suggested.

    "Okay," agreed Justin. "I have to see my flowers too. They must have missed me too."

    "Go ahead!" Tang Hebe looked at Xiang Weimin and said, "Why are you just standing there? I am sorry for not paying attention. Why don''t youe in and sit?"

    Xiang Weimin nodded his head and agreed as he walked in and sat down in the living room.

    "Would you like to drink something?"

    "No, please don''t. I just had breakfast not long ago. I don''t want anything. You should just sit here with me. I have something to discuss with you."

    Tang Hebe raised her head to look at his serious face. That face had only softened around Justin. Otherwise, Tang Hebe really would have thought he had facial paralysis. Thank goodness that wasn''t the case though. He just kept people at arm''s length. She thought it was actually a good habit. At least, people won''t dare to take him for a fool.

    But currently, she was more surprised by what he said. It had been a while since they learned about Justin and yet, this as the first time she heard him say so much to her. That was a very long sentenceing from him who always used a word or two to respond.

    She didn''t dare to be careless and sat down opposite him, "What is it about?"

    "What do you think?"

    "Huh?"

    "Between you and I, the only thing we can talk about is Justin. I don''t think there is anything else we can talk about. Don''t you think so?"

    Tang Hebe nodded her head in response, "You''re right."

 Chapter 1233 So Polite

    Chapter 1233 So Polite

    "Are you here to talk about Justin''s custody?" asked Tang Hebe trying to make herself appear calm in front of him.

    However, how could she hide these subtle emotions from someone who was professionally trained? Xiang Weimin could see her fears and apprehensions very clearly at the moment and it only proved how much Justin meant to her.

    "I believe my sister has made the matter of custody very clear to you," he responded.

    "But Raelle is Raelle," said Tang Hebe. "What she said was what she meant. You never brought this up. And more than her, I''d like to know your opinion since you''re Justin''s biological father."

    "If you wanna hear it, I''ll tell you," he said. "I have no such intentions. Raelle''s words are my words too. You can put your heart at ease. I am not here to fight with you for my son''s custody."

    "Do you usually listen to your sister that much?" she asked.

    "If what she says is right and reasonable, then yes. And trust me, 99% of the time, Raelle is right and also reasonable. It''s hard not to agree with her. Especially for me who is already said to be somewhat simr to her. In our family, they say that Raelle''s and my thoughts are always quite in sync. We have a lot inmon."

    Tang Hebe nodded her head, "So, what''s the n? For the future?"

    "That''s what I want to ask you," replied Xiang Weimin. "What do you think we should do? It''s an undeniable fact that Justin is my son. And you can also see that Justin really likes me too. So, the idea of telling him the truth about my identity on his birthday is confirmed. And I think you can see what his reaction would be."

    Tang Hebe didn''t even have to think to know what reaction Justin would have. She had thought a lot about it since she learned the truth and she even thought that Justin might not be able to ept it. But today when she was Justin, she immediately crossed out that possibility.

    The bond between father and son was already built without her knowing it. Justin already considered Xiang Weimin as the father figure in his life. So, she didn''t think he''d mind when he learned that this was really his own father.

    "Yes, I know," she answered.

    "So, since you know and I know too. We should start thinking about the future now."

    "What''s your idea?"

    "I definitely don''t wanna bring too much change into Justin''s life. He is still small. I would like to give him a healthy environment for growth which would definitely need your cooperation. I''ll have to trouble you a lot."

    "What trouble could possibly be there?" asked Tang Hebe.

    "Justin will live here with you but I''d like you to allow him to go to the Xiang Manor even when I''m not there. Since he''ll be joining the kindergarten, that''d be only possible on weekends. If possible, I''d like him to spend the weekend with my family. Do you think that''s okay with you?"

    Tang Hebe thought about it and nodded her head, "Sounds right me. There is nothing wrong with what you said. You don''t even have to ask me for this. It''s not like you''re making an unreasonable demand."

    "You see, my profession doesn''t allow me to stay at home for a long time. Even after I take my transfer to the Base here, I''ll only be able to spend two weekends with my son in a month. But I don''t want him to feel like he has no one. In the Xiang family, even if he won''t see his father, there will still be many people to love him. And from what I''ve noticed, he needs a lot of love."

    Tang Hebe rubbed her head, "I know. I''ve been told. He is very insecure. But you can''t me me for that. He was already like that when I went to pick him up. I don''t know if he was affected while in the womb of his mother since she was always on a run during her pregnancy and was also stressed, tensed, and tired. All those nerves would have had some effect on him. And even after his birth, he might have seen something he shouldn''t have. Because that''s the only thing I can assume after seeing how he had been haunted with nightmares that he can''t even describe to me." She sighed, "You''re actually right. I''m a single one in this family and even if someonees, it''s only my nanny whoes over. This kind of environment would make him withdrawn. I also thought sending him to the Xiang Manor would be good. Anyway, he likes his aunt Raelle too much already."

    "You seem to have a big opinion about my sister."

    "I don''t dare," Tang Hebe raised her hands. "I really don''t dare to have any more opinions about her. I think I''ve had enough opinions in my life. It''s okay not to have anymore." She hurriedly tried to change the topic and asked, "What about his name?"

    "Huh?"

    "His surname actually."

    "What''s his surname right now?"

    "No," she replied. "I was asking about the surname only because I want to know if you want to add him your Xiang family''s household "Xiang," she answered.

    "Do you wanna change it?" he asked.

    "No," she replied. "I was asking about the surname only because I want to know if you want to add him your Xiang family''s household registration book or let him be in mine?"

    "Again, he is too young," said Xiang Weimin. "Let''s wait for that. It''s not urgent. For now, we will just add his name to the geneolgy once we go back to our hometown after Justin''s birthday. In fact, I''d like to ask you if we can take him with us. It''s obviously necessary for him to be there but if you don''t want..."

    "Stop! I agree. You can take him."

    "Thank you!"

    Tang Hebe gave him a weird look, "What is wrong with your Xiang family? Each one of you look so difficult to talk to and yet, you all sound so polite."

 Chapter 1234 Appeal

    Chapter 1234 Appeal

    Xiang Weimin pursed his lips a little when he heard that. He couldn''t do anything about thatint. After all, even he knew that everyone in their family was a difficult person to talk to. It was in their nature. And being polite was their second nature that had been cultivated since they were young.

    Even the most casual and wild people of the family also known as Mu Chenyan and Xiang Wai were very polite.

    "By the way, you all don''t just look difficult. You all are very difficult too!" added Tang Hebe.

    "I''m sorry about that," said Xiang Weimin.

    Seeing him like that Tang Hebe deted and tsked to herself.

    "Actually," started Xiang Weimin. "Someone in my family said that there is a perfect and simple solution for ourplicated situation."

    "What is it?" she asked curiously.

    "That we should get married," answered Xiang Weimin calmly.

    He was calm but Tang Hebe''s brain already exploded just hearing that. What the hell?!

    "No one would agree with that, right?" she asked.

    "No. Most of them actually do think it''s a good idea."

    "What about Raelle?" asked Tang Hebe looking flustered for a moment. "She definitely would say no."

    "She didn''t disagree," he told her honestly.

    "No way!" Tang Hebe almost couldn''t believe it when she heard it. And she even forgot how to react.

    "Don''t you think you focus too much on Raelle?" asked Xiang Weimin. "Why does her agreement or disagreement matter more to you?"

    Tang Hebe felt a bit ufortable when she was asked that question. "Because I really didn''t think she would agree with this idea. No matter what, I''m still considered her husband''s ex-wife. And she is willing to let me be her sister-inw? It''s mind-boggling to me."

    "I also thought the same," he said.

    "What about you?" Tang Hebe looked at him. "What is your opinion?"

    "I don''t agree," he replied. "Or I wouldn''t be here discussing other ways to get along with you. Didn''t I say earlier, I''m somewhat like Raelle? Even though, I don''t think love is necessary for marriage. It still doesn''t mean I''d like to build a rtionship with someone on the basis ofpromise from day one. Life already asks forpromises from us. Wouldn''t we be too harsh on ourselves if marriage was also based on it? And I do agree that by this marriage I can give my son aplete family but the question is; will it be worth it in the end? Once he grew up, he''ll start understanding the nature of our marriage and if he learned why we got married, wouldn''t he be very ufortable?"

    Tang Hebe silently listened to him and didn''t interrupt at all.

    "Yes, there is a guarantee that by the time he grew up, our marriage would still be just apromise. You''re a good person. You might even be an amazing life partner. However, none of that would change the fact that we got married for just Justin."

    "You''re very sober," said Tang Hebe. "And you''re right. I also don''t agree. In fact, our ideas don''t even match. You said love isn''t necessary. But I''m not like that. I might be a person who broke my own heart and has been through a lot. But I''m also a person who really doesn''t learn from mistakes because I still believe in love. Ironic, isn''t it?"

    Xiang Weimin shook his head, "Doesn''t sound ironic. I think it''s brave of you to be willing to fall in love again even after getting hurt by it once."

    "Technically, I hurt myself. Love did nothing to hurt me,"mented Tang Hebe. "Yes, there is really no guarantee that we won''t fall in loveter in our married life. But the point is, you are not even my type. You''re thest person I''d want to marry."

    "Woah! I''m that unlikable?" he asked.

    "No," she replied. "That''s not what I meant. You have great conditions to offer. Just the family behind you is enough to make anyone want to marry you. On top of that, you''re handsome, upright, an Air Force officer, a high ranking one too with real abilities. You''re reasonable, sensible, don''t seem to have any superiorityplex at all. All of that only makes you seem like a golden boy. Your market value is very high."

    "Am I amodity or a stock?" asked Xiang Weimin. "Market value? Really?"

    "That''s what they say," she replied. "In the marriage market, I meant. What market are you talking about? And yes, in the marriage market, you''re actually like a hotmodity or a high-rising stock that everyone would want to take a bite of."

    "It sounds scary."

    Tang Hebe nodded her head, "Oh, the marriage market is not only cruel but also scary. There is no doubt about that at all."

    "Then if I''m such a hot stock, why am I not appealing to you?"

    Tang Hebe sighed heavily as she looked at him from the top of his head to the tip of his toe. Actually, honestly speaking, she couldn''t find one w in this man in front of him. The only w was really that he wasn''t her type.

    "Is it because I can''t speak sweet words?" asked Xiang Weimin. "Because I''ve been told I can act like a boring gourd."

    "Not really. It''s okay not to be romantic. Romance doesn''t fill the stomach. Besides, who can have romance every day? It''s not about that at all. I think it''s good that you don''t speak sweet words. They sound like lies. At least, you speak the truth even if it hurts."

    "And yet, I''m rejected??" he asked again in confusion. He could tell that she really meant what she said. And she was right. His conditions were very good. He knew that since he was very young. Even if his parents were divorced, it won''t change the fact that he was the eldest grandson of the family.

    It also won''t change that he was capable and had been able to rise the ranks on his own abilities.

 Chapter 1235 Maternal Grandma

    Chapter 1235 Maternal Grandma

    "Actually, you know the reason for this rejection," said Tang Hebe.

    "Oh?" Xiang Weimin raised his brow at her.

    "You just said earlier that you''re somewhat like Raelle," told Tang Hebe with a faint smile on her lips. "That name had always been like a rock weighing down on me. For years, I lived under the shadow of that name. Even though I didn''t meet her in person until this year."

    "Your insecurity is the reason?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "I won''t deny it. I was indeed a lot insecure. I''m not feeling that way now though," she replied. "But you actually give me the same feeling as Raelle. And I''ll tell you honestly, that whenever I''m around her, I feel a little ufortable. Only because she is always able to see my fears. I am not able to hide anything from her and I don''t like that feeling very much. You and her, both exude the same kind of pressure. You both even have the same look in your eyes."

    Xiang Weimin didn''t think she''d reject him for this reason. It was surprising but not that surprising either.

    "Although the idea of having Raelle Xiang calling me elder sister-inw is quite appealing," she added. "I''d still like to keep my distance. Our connections areplicated enough. I don''t want to add more to thisplexity. I''m not sure about others but I''m certain that we can provide Justin with a warm and healthy growth environment without binding with each other through marriage against our own wishes."

    "That''s exactly what I think," he agreed. He had thought about it a lot since Hyson had told him that marriage would solve everything. For a moment, he did consider it but he still couldn''t bring himself to do so. First of all, as she said, she was Raelle''s husband''s ex-wife. Even if Raelle always forgets that he couldn''t forget it as Raelle''s brother.

    Secondly, he didn''t like making unnecessarypromises.

    He did believe that love wasn''t a necessity just like Raelle. He also believed that a marriage could work without love and whether it''d be a good one or not, only time would tell. After all, his parents'' love marriage was also broken, how could they guarantee that arranged marriages would always work? There was always a factor of uncertainty in life.

    It''s not like Xiang Weimin didn''t think about marriage. He did consider it. It''s just that he hadn''t found someone until now. And also, so many people have yed tricks to get him that he slowly started getting a little disgusted with the idea of a rtionship.

    "By the way, we don''t know what the future will bring. I won''t promise you that I won''t marry in the future. After all, I told you, I still am a person who belives in love. If one day I did fall in love, I won''t step back from a new rtionship. And I won''t ask the same from you too," said Tang Hebe. "But I can promise you that my love for Justin will never change. He will always be my son."

    Xiang Weimin gave her a small smile, "Indeed. We can''t be sure that we won''t get married in the future. But I still have no such ns."

    "You can never be sure about that," said Tang Hebe. "Some things are truly out of our hands." She gave him a sincere smile and added, "After talking to you, I understand why Chi Xirui fell in love with you."

    Xiang Weimin paused, "Did she really love me though?"

    "If she didn''t, she wouldn''t give birth to Justin and neither would she try everything possible to keep you safe from her own background. Don''t you agree?"

    Xiang Weimin went silent for a moment before saying, "I don''t know why she did it. Don''t you think it''d have been better if she had told me the truth? I don''t like people who assume that by hiding something from the other person, they are doing the right thing. Just because they think it''s for the goodness of the other person."

    Tang Hebe didn''tment on that.

    Xiang Weimin stood up and said, "I''m leaving now. I''lle another time to see Justin. If you need something from me or need any help, just let me know."

    "Wait!"

    "Huh?"

    "I have a question."

    "Go ahead."

    "Someone sent some very interesting photos to my mother the same day she came to see me for Ruan Meilin''s matter. Can you tell me who did it?"

    Xiang Weimin rubbed his nose, "I believe that has something to do with my aunt. Consider it a little gift from her to you."

    Tang Hebe didn''t know what to say. She could still remember the vivid expression of her mother when she saw those photos. How mad she was just after seeing in those photos how pitiful her poor little niece had been doing. She felt likeughing just thinking about it.

    "Your aunt sure knows how to give a gift," said Tang Hebe.

    "Oh, you''d be surprised at how good she is at that."

    Xiang Weimin went to see Justin and said goodbye to him before leaving. As soon as he opened the door to leave, he ran into someone and said, "Sorry!"

    "It''s okay," replied the other person with a stunned expression.

    Xiang Weimin didn''t pay attention to the neer and left.

    "What are you looking at?" asked Tang Hebe when she found her cousin standing there just staring at something.

    "Who was that?" asked Tang Ping.

    "Xiang Weimin," answered Tang Hebe.

    "Justin''s real father?"

    Tang Hebe nodded her head and Tang Ping''s expression changed then her brows furrowed a little, "Damn! Isn''t that Xiang Wai''s elder brother?"

    Tang Hebe gave her cousin a look like she was looking at a fool and rolled her eyes, "Took you long enough to make that connection. Haven''t you seen him before? You studied with Xiang Wai in school. And I heard he is very close to Xiang Wai so he must have appeared around her at some point."

    "He did!" replied Tang Ping. "But I didn''t pay much attention."

    "Right. You''re too busy looking at your boyfriend."

    Tang Ping didn''t deny it as she entered the house and said, "Did he bring Justin back?"

    "Yeah." Tang Hebe went in and then turned to look back at her, "What are you doing here? Didn''t you just drop me off here an hour or so ago? What''s up?"

    Tang Ping smacked her own head, "I almost forgot. Beauty is distracting. Anyway, Mom asked me to bring you and Justin over." Before Tang Hebe could refuse, she raised her hand, "Don''t say you won''te. Mom said her problem is with your mom. We as young ones should stay out of the matters of the older generation. She still loves you and cares about you. Besides, our Justin also needs a maternal grandma. We can''t let him deal with a meany like your mom all the time. What kind of impression would that leave?"

    "You really have all sorts of reasons now to convince me just to go home with you, eh?"

    "I can''t help it. Mom said not toe back unless I bring you two with me," Tang Ping looked very pitiful as she said that. "I''m still not as valued as a daughter. You as a niece are more important in our house."

    "So, do you hate me?" asked Tang Hebe.

    "Why would I?"

    "Because I hated Ruan Meilin all my life since she had always been more important to my mother than me."

    Tang Ping pursed her lips, "Your mother is a different species. My Mom isn''t that partial in life. Yes, she loves you, and seeing that you have always been so pitiful, I also think you need more love and care than me. So, I don''t mind it at all."

    "Oh, look at you being so generous. Thank you for your generosity, Miss Tang!"

    "You''re wee!" said Tang Ping shamelessly. "Oh, by the way, where is my nephew?"

    "Here!"

    Tang Ping was startled when she heard Justin''s voice and looked back at him.

    "Hi, kiddo!"

    "Justin," he replied. "Not a kiddo!"

    Tang Ping chuckled, "Oh my gosh! You''ve learned to talk now."

    Justin looked at her like he was looking at a fool and Tang Ping found this expression very familiar. Oh, wasn''t this how Tang Hebe looked at her?

    "Don''t tease my son," said Tang Hebe. "Baby, your aunt came to take us with her to see grandma."

    Justin showed resistance, "I don''t want to see that loud grandma."

    Tang Hebe''s heart was wrenched when he said that. Such a small kid could tell when he wasn''t liked. She really didn''t know what to think about her mother. So, she patiently told him, "It''s not that grandma. It''s auntie Ping''s mom. She is very kind, gentle, loving, and caring. You''d love her. She makes the best sweets."

    "Do you love her?" asked Justin.

    "I do," Tang Hebe didn''t know why he asked but she answered truthfully.

    "Then let''s go," he agreed so readily that he didn''t give her a chance to react. She suddenly hugged him wondering how her luck became so good that she got such a sweet son in this life?

 Chapter 1236 How?

    Chapter 1236 How?

    Shui Koshing cheerfully went back home but when he came, his expression was a bit dull. Seeing the change, Shui Xian asked, "What happened, B¨¤? Didn''t you just go out so cheerfully to avenge your daughter-inw?"

    "What nonsense?" replied Shui Koshing. "I didn''t go to avenge my daughter-inw. I just wanted to tell them to control themselves and don''t embarrass my daughter-inw like this."

    "Then what''s up? Why did youe back looking so sad?"

    Shui Koshing shook his head and sighed, "Maybe it''s because I''m getting older. So, I''m getting greedier too."

    Shui Xian''s brows quirked up inquisitively when he heard his father say that.

    "When it was just you and I at home, I was getting prettyfortable with the empty house. Then Raelle came to join our family and suddenly, the house was a lot like a warm home again. Strange considering Raelle isn''t even a warm person but she is capable of making the people around her feel warm."

    Shui Xian could understand his father''s feelings and he actually had a hunch where this conversation was going.

    "I just went over to the Xiang Manor. That ce was always livelier than our house even when only two people lived there. But now, it''s gotten better. There are more people adding more life to the house. hunch was right.

    "So? What''s making you greedy? Or is it the emptiness of this house Even early in the morning, you can actually hear people running around doing their own things but their presence could be felt. They even added the new blood making giving the house a whole new outlook."

    Shui Xian looked at his father with aplicated expression. His hunch was right.

    "So? What''s making you greedy? Or is it the emptiness of this houseing to haunt you again?"

    Shui Koshing gave his son a look, "It''s not haunting. I still feel like this house feels like a home when you and Raelle are around. But as humans how can someone not be greedy? I wasn''t this greedy a while ago. I don''t know what changed?"

    "I know what changed," answered Shui Xian. "And I''ll tell you, B¨¤. That child wasn''t in our fate."

    Shui Koshing closed his eyes trying to hide the emotions in his eyes. He was hoping his son wouldn''t bring it up so straightforwardly but apparently, he was also getting influenced by Raelle''s temperament.

    "I know. I know that."

    Shui Xian came to sit beside him and patted his shoulder, "I know that you know. And I also know that just because you know doesn''t mean a part of your heart is willing to ept or understand it. But you have to look forward. Also, don''t bring this up in front of my wife. I don''t wanna see her sad."

    "Brat! You don''t care about your father''s sadness?" Shui Koshing hit his arm. "Also, do I look so insensible? Why would I bring it up in front of her? My grief can never be more than her. I understand that very well."

    Shui Xian smiled at him, "B¨¤, I understand why you''re feeling this way. Seeing Justin, you''re suddenly feeling the emptiness. I can understand that very well."

    "Can you me me? It''s been so many years since I''ve held a baby in my arms. And just thinking about thebination of you and Raelle, I''m even more eager to see this baby. Do you think I''m really getting that old? Is that why I''m so eager to be a grandfather now? The other day, that Lao Hu fromne 3 brought his little grandson to the park in the evening. He talked for an hour about how intelligent his grandson is. I actually had the thought, ''You haven''t seen my grandchild yet.'' Can you believe that? I don''t even have a grandchild yet."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips but he still couldn''t helpughing out loud.

    "Yeah. Yeah. Justugh. Laugh all you want. This is what parents get after raising their kids so big. Their stupid kidsughing at their faces like this. So,ugh some more!"

    "I''m sorry!" said Shui Xian and tried to stop but he againughed.

    "Where is my cane? Where is it?! This brat needs a beating right now! Bring my cane here!"

    "Oho! So much anger so early in the morning?"

    Shui Koshing look at Raelle and his anger dissipated. Instead, he pointed at his son, "Look at him. He isughing at me."

    "How rude, Hubby!"

    "I''m sorry! I really am. But I can''t help it," exined Shui Xian in his own defense.

    "What are weughing about though?" asked Raelle which instantly shut Shui Xian up and made him forget all aboutughing. Seeing their silence, she asked again, "Is it something I can''t know about?"

    "It''s nothing," said Shui Xian.

    "You''re really not gonna tell me?" asked Raelle.

    "Forget it. I''ll tell youter."

    Raelle shrugged, "Suit yourself." She actually didn''t ask again. Only because she could tell that they both didn''t wanna talk about it with her. Although she didn''t know why, she didn''t push it either.

    All of them had their breakfast and then Raelle left first. She took out her tablet in the car to read the email and the very first email was the one she received from Mu Chenyan. She sent her the details of the wedding n and Raelle stared at the mail for a long time without clicking on it.

    After a long time, she finally did and just skimming through the list her head was dizzy and she closed the tablet and threw it aside.

    She looked outside the window and whispered, "How did you get yourself into this, Raelle? How? Just how?" It was at this moment, she was contemting why and how she actually changed from someone who said no to even minor troublesome things and now, she actually brought herself into a grand wedding project. Wow! Who would have thought?

    At least, Raelle Xiang fromst year wouldn''t have even imagined this in her wildest dreams. Never and ever!

 Chapter 1237 [Bonus chapter] Golden Egg

    Chapter 1237 [Bonus chapter] Golden Egg

    "Morning, Chief!" greeted Cloe as soon as Raelle walked out of the elevator.

    Raelle stopped. No, not because of the greeting but because of the entourage she had with her. She looked at those people standing in line who actually bowed their heads to greet her, "Good morning, President!"

    Cloe''s lips twitched seeing this scene. She had warned these people not to do this kind of greeting.

    "Do you have too much time on your hand, Cloe?"

    "No," she replied. "I don''t, Chief!"

    "Then what are you doing here weing me? You could definitely utilize this time in a more efficient and productive way. Don''t you agree?"

    Cloe smiled at her so forcefully that her cheeks hurt, "Yes, you''re right. As always, Chief."

    "Indeed. I am."

    Cloe felt like she was a bit off this morning, and she felt bad for the people behind her. However, she still had to introduce them today, "These are the candidates chosen for your assistant''s position."

    This time Raelle did turn to pay attention to the five people behind Cloe. Three men and two women. All looked quite capable and highly qualified.

    "And?" asked Raelle.

    Cloe took a deep breath and said to these people, "Introduce yourselves!"

    "I''m Amanda! I''m 23 years old. I graduated from..."

    Seeing Raelle raising her hand she stopped and Raelle looked at Cloe was pissed off as she red at Amanda. Didn''t she tell these people how to introduce themselves? Everyone knew Raelle hated wasting time. Did they think she was so free to listen to them chat about how they were and where did theye from or where they graduated from? Trying to get ahead in the workce was a good practice but being over smart was never a good one!

    "I never knew you are so good at selecting people, Cloe!"

    Cloe could actually hear the naked sarcasm and she couldn''t do anything about it either. Even she was wondering if there was something wrong with her selection? The one golden rule of following Raelle Xiang was; Follow instructions!

    They couldn''t even follow her instructions right now. She wondered if they''d be able to follow Raelle''s instructions in the future.

    "President Raelle, I''m Huo Xizhou!" introduced the rather young man. He looked like a fresh graduate and that surprised Raelle since she thought they were selecting candidates internally.

    "I''m Hannah Su!"

    "I''m..."

    The rest of them introduced themselves in the same pattern. Just their names. And that''s all Cloe had asked them to do. Was it that difficult? She didn''t think so until she saw the blunder they made.

    Raelle''s eyes didn''t settle on any of them except for Huo Xizhou and that was only because of his age. "Cloe, follow me!"

    "Yes, Chief!"

    Watching Raelle leave, Cloe called out to her own assistant, "Xiao Bai!"

    "Yes!"

    "Take them and teach them how to follow instructions. And if they can''t do that by the end of the day. Send them back to their old positions!"

    Xiao Bai looked at the five of them with a bit of sympathy before nodding, "Yes!"

    "I''m going to Chief''s office!" said Cloe but didn''t move immediately.

    "Best of luck, Ms. Cloe!"

    Cloe gave an awkward smile and went to Raelle''s office. And as soon as she entered, "I can exin this, Chief."

    "Can you now?" asked Raelle as she took off her zer and hung it on the coat hanger. "But do I need to remind you that I don''t like exnations?"

    "No reminder. I remember it."

    "First, tell me. Why did you even bring them to me? Didn''t I tell you to do the selection?"

    "This is why," answered Cloe. "I wanted you to see them. And I also understand that not everyone can stand your pressure. So, I was meaning to filter them out through this way. After all, not everyone dares to work so close to Raelle Xiang just because the position looks like a golden egg."

    "Really? This position is like the golden egg?" asked Raelle in surprise.

    "Yes, that''s what I heard from the employees around," answered Cloe.

    "What else did they say?"

    Cloe frowned at Raelle''s mannerisms which looked like she was ready to listen to some gossip right now. So, she just followed her instructions and told her, "They also said these people are foolish and think being President''s assistant is like flying to the sky. Like getting the golden egg. After all, golden eggs are found in a dragon''sir. How can you get them so easily without any casualties? When you enter the dragon''sir, you have to pay a price."

    "Wow!" said Raelle. "Wait. I have be a dragon now? Am I that lustful?"

    Cloe coughed and hit her chest. Raelle pushed water towards her which she took and drank slowly to stop her coughing and gave Raelle a strange look.

    "What? Did I say something wrong? Don''t they say dragons are lustful? That''s what I heard. You heard something different."

    "Chief, don''t you think your focus is wrong, right now?" asked Cloe.

    "What else should I focus on? They aren''t exactly wrong with what they are saying. You should know that better. You have paid a lot to sit stably in your position beside me for so long. Don''t you think so?"

    "As long as you acknowledge my hard work, I don''t mind paying this price."

    Raelle shook her head, "Foolish. I didn''t think I trained a foolish assistant like you."

    Cloe smiled in response and told her, "I wanted you to at least know the names and faces of the candidates I chose. I have been training them for a while. I thought they would have made some progress but it seems, I was expecting too much."

    "Everyone wants to get ahead."

    "But you don''t like people who use their smartness at the wrong ce," reminded Cloe.

    "If you say it like that, I''d be unwilling to let you go, Cloe! Where will I find an assistant who knows me so well?"

    Cloe smiled at her. "I hope in the future you also keep an eye on these people. You''d have to interact with them at some level. Or else, how would we understand if they can handle you or not?"

 Chapter 1238 Clap! Clap! Clap!

    Chapter 1238 p! p! p!

    Raelle actually didn''t want to do this. Why else did she push this matter to Cloe? Even when Cloe was hired back then, Raelle wasn''t involved in the process at all!

    "Do I need you if I have to do this myself?" asked Raelle. "Are you forgetting who hired you back then? Was I involved?"

    Cloe shook her head, "No. I was hired by Mu Chenyan. Then why don''t you ask her again?"

    "Back then she was the person who knew what I was looking for in my assistant and now, you''re more familiar than her regarding my requirements. Don''t act like you know nothing."

    Cloe pursed her lips and nodded, "I know everything and I''m doing everything your way. I''m not even going the systematic way only because I know I won''t be able to screen out the suitable person for you in that way."

    "Then why do you want me to keep an eye on them?"

    "You have better eyes than me," said Cloe.

    "Thanks for thepliment but it''s troublesome!"

    "Oh my gosh! I feel like I haven''t heard that word in a very long time."

    "What word?"

    "Troublesome!" replied Cloe. "You know, before your marriage. That was the word I heard the most from you. It was overused that I often wanted to smash something on your head for repeating it over and over again."

    "Tsk. Tsk. You got courageous now, eh? Want to smash my head?"

    Cloe bit her tongue, "Oops. That was a slip of the tongue."

    "That''s more like truth slipping out," said Raelle. "Anyway, just because I don''t say it doesn''t mean I''m easygoing now. It''s still troublesome. Do your job. Don''t drag me into it. Also, teach them how to follow instructions. I don''t like wordy people. It took you ten years to be this wordy with me."

    "That''s true," agreed Cloe. "So, does any of them catch your eye?"

    "Did you select a fresh graduate?" asked Raelle.

    "You''re talking about Huo Xizhou?" asked Cloe. "Actually, he isn''t really a fresh graduate. He did an internship with us and seeing his ability, his team leader gave him a permanent position. So, he has been with us for a while and made quite some impression. Why else do you think I''ll select him? You don''t think he is too young, do you?"

    Raelle gave her a look, "When you''re hired, you''re about the same age too and I was even younger than you. Do you think I''ll have a problem with his age? I''m just asking."

    "That''s true. You won''t underestimate him just because of his age." Thinking about something, she asked, "By the way, what''s this all about?" She took out her phone to show her the mail that she got from Raellest night. "What the hell is even this? What do you mean I have to go through a formal process to be selected as a bridesmaid?"

    Raelle looked at it carelessly, "It''s exactly what it sounds like."

    "No, what do you mean? I have to submit an application? Why? How can you do this to me? My bridesmaid position was fixed! I worked ten years for it! You can''t take it away like this."

    "I didn''t say I won''t give it to you. I just meant you have to follow a lengthy process now."

    "But why?"

    "Go and ask Major for that. Why did she piss me off? If she hadn''t insisted on bing my bridesmaid would I think of this just for the sake of being fair? No! So, whose fault it is? Not mine for sure!"

    Cloe breathed out, "You''re saying, I was put through this just for the sake of being fair? Just for that? I have to suffer?"

    "You all are making this bride suffer! Can''t I do something to reciprocate? How will it be bnced?"

    Cloe gaped at her in disbelief, "You have got to be kidding with me right now."

    "I don''t kid around," said Raelle.

    Cloe stared at her in silence before saying, "So, I have to write an application now?"

    "You agreed so readily?" asked Raelle.

    "What else can I do? I''m just a pitiful soul oppressed by your tyranny. How can I go against you? Wouldn''t it be like throwing eggs at a rock? It''s self-defeating. So, it''s better for me to be self-conscience enough to bow under the eaves."

    "Damn! You have learned to y now, eh?"

    Cloe smiled at her, "On a serious note, since you are going through the trouble of going with me to choose my ring. I''m also willing to go through the trouble of this whole process. Anyway, writing an application isn''t difficult. Besides, my spot is fixed."

    "I can change it anytime."

    Cloe wanted to roll her eyes but held back, "I know you are very capable. However, I still have faith in my selection." She didn''t think it was difficult to do this at all. She''d just take it as a challenge. Besides, she had to think about how to mess with Wai right now who brought this upon her and didn''t let Cloe escape too. "Oh, your husband won''te today, right?"

    "Why are you asking?"

    "We have to go shopping. Ring shopping. Remember?"

    "Oh, we''re going today?"

    "Or? Do you have time? Looking at that list of things you have to go through, I suddenly understand why you wanted to just get the marriage certificate before. It was so simple and so easy. Maybe I should do the same!"

    "Ha! As if I''ll let you escape! If I have to suffer, I won''t let anyone of you escape!"

    "When did you get so petty, Chief?"

    "I don''t know. But I have recently realized how fun it is to watch the whole world burn!"

    "Evil! Pure evil!" Cloe shuddered. "I''m gonna leave you here now. Take care of yourself. Don''t burn the office down." She turned to leave and stopped to say, "We have a meeting in half an hour."

    "Got it!"

    Raelle again opened the mail she received from Mu Chenyan and looked through it.

    She had no part to y in catering, videography, floral arrangements, and entertainment, etc. She only had to meet the photographer for now.

    Wedding attire... Thank goodness for Yue Yue! She didn''t have to go Flower girls and ring bearers?

    Why ask her? How would she know who''d do that? Nope! She won''t choose this one.

    Wedding attire... Thank goodness for Yue Yue! She didn''t have to go and try out so many gowns. But when she looked at the fact that she still had to try different gowns for different themes for the wedding photos, her mood was dampened. Why do this to her?

    Bridal shower and bachelorette party?

    Hell no!

    She picked her phone and opened the wedding group created by Mu Chenyan and typed, "No bridal shower and bachelorette party! No way! Scratch that!"

    Before Mu Chenyan could respond, Hyson''s response came first, "What? Who cares about your mood? We are having a bridal shower and bachelorette party! Don''t listen to her Yanyan."

    Raelle: Why are you even in this group?

    Yanyan: I added him.

    Raelle: Why?

    Hyson: Why not? I told you, even if it''s your wedding, we won''t follow your wishes everywhere!

    Raelle: Forget it! I won''t have those two.

    Yanyan: Baby, hear me out first.

    Raelle: I''m technically not a bachelor!

    Hyson: So what? It''s a process. You gotta go through the process. Can you skip steps in your project ns? That''s like cutting corners and that''s hical practice. Are you bing hical now?

    Mu Chenyan was quite impressed when she saw this response from Hyson.

    Xian: *p! p! p* emojis

    Raelle: Who are you pping for?

    Xian: I''m cheering for you, darling. Don''t let his words get to you!

    Raelle didn''t want to pay attention to this. She still insisted she won''t have this bachelorette party. Bridal shower. Okay. Bachelorette party? No!

    Hyson: Okay. We''ll listen to you.

    Raelle was quite suspicious seeing him backing down so easily. She really didn''t think he''d back down. That wasn''t like what Hyson would do. He was a very persistent person. Even more stubborn than her. In fact, he was trickier too.

    On the other side, even Mu Chenyan was suspicious so she texted Hyson separately, "What are you up to, godson?"

    "Leave it to me, godmother!"

    Mu Chenyan''s lips curled up, "Okay! Godmother has faith in you. And I''ll support all your evil ns too."

    "Even if they make Raelle blow up?"

    "Yup!"

    "I got the best godmother in the world!"

    Mu Chenyan chuckled seeing his response and shook his head. Of course, she''d support him. She had to have faith in her godson who was really capable to tackling Raelle. So, she leisurely forgot about it.

    Even if bachelorette party was up to the maid of honor, she knew if it was possible, this position would have gone to Hyson. So, she''d leave this bachelorette party to him. As for the bridal shower, that was easy to handle. They weren''t gonna make it a big scene anyway so it was easier to handle Raelle and coax her into this.

 Chapter 1239 Its Mine!

    Chapter 1239 It''s Mine!

    Raelle didn''t know what ns were cooking behind her back and neither did she care. Because even if she knew, what could she do? Once Hyson got stubborn, the one to lose will have to be her. She could fight him with words but not when it came to tricks because she didn''t know how to do that.

    And since Hyson also knew this fact, it only made his confidence soar and he was ready to put his ns to action.

    Raelle couldn''t spare him enough time. After all, she did promise to go out with Cloe to choose her engagement ring. In fact, it was more like she was just watching. Because she definitely didn''t give any useful opinion to Cloe since they came here.

    "Chief, I asked you to call Wai." Seeing that Raelle was so useless at the moment, she had to bring this up. She clearly told this woman to call her sister but who knew she''d be stuck with Raelle alone?

    What was she even thinking when she decided to bring Raelle with her to choose the ring? Did her head get knocked by a donkey or something? Because she knew clearly about Raelle''s aesthetics and yet, she brought this woman with her for such an important task.

    However, Cloe did a very good job at hiding her inner thoughts or else Raelle would have left by now for being despised even when she so kindly came to offer a hand to help. Even if this helps was negligent. At least she was here with her to support her, no? Why were people so greedy?

    "I called her," replied Raelle. "She said she is out shopping with her brother today."

    "Huh? She took Lieutenant Colonel Xiang Weimin out on shopping? What kind of shopping are they gonna do?"

    "The kind where one buys and the other pays," replied Raelle naturally. Even if she didn''t know about what happened this morning, she was still able to deduce it perfectly that if Xiang Weimin was able to go with her out on shopping than he was definitely ying the role of the credit card.

    Cloe had an envious look in her eyes which she didn''t even try to disguise and even said, "There are brothers who really pay the bills of their sisters'' shopping?"

    "Should I say something hurtful? Do you really wanna hear it? Don''t sayter that I spoiled your mood or something."

    Cloe hmphed, "Please, don''t speak!" She was all too familiar with what could Raelle say in response. What could it be apart from, ''Just because you don''t have such brother doesn''t mean others don''t either.'' Or it could be something like, ''Not all brothers are vampires.''

    Since she already knew it all, she didn''t feel the need to hear it again from Raelle.

    "Help me look at the rings," said Cloe. "How is this one?"

    "Good," responded Raelle as usual.

    "Isn''t the diamond a little too ostentatious?" Asked Cloe feeling puzzled.

    Raelle gave her a look, "Then pick the one with a smaller diamond."

    "However, this one looks so good on my finger," said Cloe.

    Raelle didn''t want to say anything. This is why she didn''t go shopping with these women who were too confused with their own choices. Was it really that difficult? Was it? She didn''t think so. Just take the one that makes you feel good. And if you''re getting confused, buy it all. Simple as that!

    Of course, Cloe didn''t know what was going on in her mind and neither did she care. She knew she was annoying Raelle by asking these questions but she couldn''t help it. It was her engagement ring. How could she be careless about it? She was gonna propose and had to make an impression.

    Cloe looked at the attendant and said, "I''ll look at more designs."

    "Feel free to do so," said the attendant looking polite and professional.

    While Raelle just sat there, Cloe walked around the shop and looked into the ss counters to see more rings on disy. Suddenly a pair of rings caught her eye and her eyes brightened. She walked over just as one of the attendant put it on the ss counter and pointed at it saying, "I want it."

    But at the same time, another voice said the same thing. Cloe looked over and her face twitched when she faced Xiang Wai who also had a weird expression on her face.

    "What are you doing here?" Asked both of them in unison. Then looking at the pair of rings, they both shouted, "This is mine!"

    "How is it yours?" Asked Cloe. "I saw it first."

    "Haha! I asked the attendant to take it out of the ss counter so I can look at it. What are you on about? I came first. So firstes, first serves."

    "Who made that rule? I don''t ept. I want it," said Cloe stubbornly.

    "But I won''t give it," said Xiang Wai stubbornly.

    "Why do you want it? You don''t even need it!" Pointed out Cloe.

    "Why don''t I need it? Don''t I have to propose to my boyfriend?"

    Cloe gaped at her. "Copycat!"

    Xiang Wai rolled her eyes at her, "If we are talking about copycat, the original isn''t you either. It''s my sister! Why are you following her?"

    "I have been following her for ten years. Why can''t I follow now? Just because you came out of nowhere?"

    "Why did Ie out of nowhere? I have always been here!"

    Raelle looked at the two of them from the side and wondered exactly where was this argument going? It didn''t seem like they were fighting over the rings even though she was certain it started from the rings.

    Now, how was she supposed to deal with them? She actually wanted to turn around and leave. But one was her ''friend'' and other was her ''sister''.

    "What''s the fight about?" Asked Raelle as she walked up to them.

    "She chose the same ring as mine!" They both said making Raelle give them a look and then she looked at the rings. Well, it was just about tinum ring jewled with diamonds. She wondered why it was so special? Was it worth it to fight over it?

    "Then can''t you both just order another pair?"

    Both of them gave Raelle a bizarre look like she was blind or something. Of course, Raelle didn''t understand why her suggestion was taken with such disgusting expression? Did she say something wrong? She didn''t think so.

    "What''s the problem?"

    Cloe calmed down and said, "Chief, it''s a proposal ring."

    "Yeah. So?"

    "Sister, you''re aesthetics are blind,"mented Xiang Wai. "Every woman wants to be special. And wants to have a special ring for her engagement too. Unique design that only belongs to her."

    Raelle didn''t understand this either as she said, "But don''t all rings look the same? Same diamonds. Just some small and some big ones. What''s the difference?"

    "I don''t wanna have this argument," said Xiang Wai. "I feel like I won''t be able to make you understand anything."

    "You really won''t be," agreed Cloe. "It''s not that Chief is being stubborn with her own ideas. She actually really thinks that it isn''t really a big deal."

    "Isn''t that wrong?" Asked Xiang Wai.

    "Do you wanna tell her that?" Asked Cloe in return and Xiang Wai shut up.

    "I''m standing right here, girls," said Raelle. "And yes, I''m unable to understand you women and your particrities too. It''s not a crime neither a sin. Don''t look at me like I''m a sinner or something. Forget it. Continue to argue. No, but do it somewhere else. Don''t ruin the brand image of my mother-inw''s brand here. It''s very precious to my husband."

    Yes, Raelle hade to the same shop where she got her own engagement ring. This is right where Shui Xian yed around with her to check her ring size and also got her opinion. Thinking of that, she look at the ring she wore on her middle finger and her eyes softened. She stopped bothering with these two. Instead she said to the manager, "If they argue again, throw them out. Don''t ruin the atmosphere for other customers."

    "This..." The manager was a little shocked and hesitatant. But she couldn''t deny her words either.

    "What? Something wrong?" Asked Raelle.

    "Nothing. I''ll follow your instructions," said the manager. Who made Raelle thedy boss around here? She wasn''t a fool to refuse her words.

    "Chief!"

    "Raelle!"

    "I''m not listening," said Raelle as she walked out without paying them any attention at all. Who asked them to argue like that and even give her a disgusting expression. Just because she doesn''t say anything doesn''t mean she''d let them do whatever. She came to help and got stuck in this too. Who would be happy? She definitely wasn''t!

    No way!

    "Chief, don''t go!" Cloe ran after her.

    "Raelle, wait for me!" Xiang Wai also got serious and ran after her in a hurry.

 Chapter 1240 The Game Of Luck

    Chapter 1240 The Game Of Luck

    Both Cloe and Xiang Wai hurriedly caught up to Raelle.

    "Raelle, there is no need to be mad about it," said Xiang Wai.

    "I''m not mad," answered Raelle. "I just find it particrly pointless to stay there and watch you two argue about a pair of rings. You both either get the same design or you both go and ''get another unique design. That way, no one will be a clear winner. Isn''t it fair?"

    "It''s fair,"mented Cloe. "But I''m unwilling."

    "Me too."

    "Then get the hell out of my face!"

    Cloe and Xiang Wai shared a look and both scratched the bridge of their nose. Although Raelle''s words were very fair and the best way to end the argument too, they really were unwilling. How could it be so easy to give up?

    "Let''s pick a winner," suggested Xiang Wai.

    "How?" asked Cloe.

    Xiang Wai contemted for a while before saying, "Rock, paper, scissors?"

    Cloe''s lips twitched when she heard that. "Really?"

    "Yes! Don''t think it''s dumb and childish."

    "Isn''t it?" asked Cloe.

    "No, it''s not," said Xiang Wai. "Rock, paper, scissor is also a game of luck. It''s also easy and time efficient. We can find the winner, instantly."

    "We shouldpete based on our strengths," said Cloe.

    "No. Luck is a big part of life. Whoever wins, it means the rings are fated for that person. Competing of strengths won''t make that clear."

    Cloe almost fell for her words and was about to nod to agree but held back and asked, "Chief, what do you say?"

    They turned their heads and found that Raelle had disappeared at some point. They frantically looked around before finding Raelle standing in front of a snack shop. They again ran over to her and told Raelle what they discussed. Now, it was Raelle''s turn to give them a disgusted look.

    "One of you is Raelle Xiang''spetent assistant and the other is a Major in the army. And you came up with the idea of deciding on a winner with rock, paper, scissors? Are you both for real?"

    "See?" started Cloe. "Even Chief thinks it''s wrong."

    "Actually, just go with it and get done with it. I won''t be wasting time anymore here," added Raelle.

    "Then you''d be the referee," said Xiang Wai.

    "This also needs a referee?" asked Raelle.

    "YES!"

    "Okay, okay. Just start already," said Raelle as she mentally decided to nevere out shopping with these two women ever again. Coming out shopping with her husband was still the best. At least, she could enjoy the exclusive fashion show. Here, she had to y the referee for these kids.

    Thinking of this, she even ended up sending a ''I Miss You'' sticker to Shui Xian who found this very random and frowned as he stared at the sticker for a long while in silence, trying to understand what kind of a situation prompted this result from his wife. Unfortunately, he could only guess for now since no one was there to give him a clear answer.

    Raelle took a bite of the Tanghulu she just bought as she looked at the girls ying their childish game. In the first round, Cloe yed rock while Xiang Wai opted for the paper making her the winner. But Cloe wasn''t convinced and said, "This was just the first round. Two more to go. How else would we decide?"

    Xiang Wai rolled her eyes at her but still yed along. But sadly for Cloe, she didn''t even win one round. So, the clear winner was Major Xiang Wai who jumped happily.

    "Are you that happy?" asked Cloe sullenly.

    "Very!" Xiang Waiughed, "The rings are mine. I''m going to buy those. Wait for me."

    Cloe waved her off angrily and seeing her trotting away, she said unwillingly, "It was my idea to propose to my boyfriend. Why did shee along in the picture?"

    "She came from exactly where you did," answered Raelle. "I don''t even understand what are you two doing. Can''t wait for your boyfriends or what?"

    "Can wait. But when there is a better option, why wait?" asked Cloe. "Besides, Chief. You''re the trendsetter here. And I think Xiang Wai would agree that after seeing your proposal, it''s very clear to us that taking the first step isn''t wrong or demeaning when you know that''s what you want. And I''m very clear that that''s what I want in my life and it''s clear from Wai''s expressions that that''s what she wants too. Or she won''t be in a hurry. I heard she had been badly hurt in her rtionship and yet, in the end, she came to realize that she still loved the same person. Since she knows she is happy with him, then why not take a step forward, right?"

    "It''s not good to always follow the trend," said Raelle.

    "You won''t understand it, Chief," said Cloe. "After all, you have always been the trendsetter. How can you understand the psyche or happiness of the trend followers?"

    "Yeah, whatever! Just be happy!"

    "I''m not happy. I didn''t get my rings!"

    "Go back and find another pair. There can''t be just that one pair that caught your eye. If not there, choose another brand. There must be a pair of rings with your name on it."

    "I don''t know if my name is on a ring but I think it''s a good idea to engrave my name with Kun''s on the ring. Chief, thanks for the idea."

    Seeing her running away, Raelle was left standing with a half-eaten stick of Tanghulu in her hands. "Is it just me or these girls are too energetic?" she asked herself.

    She wasn''t expecting an answer but she ended up getting one.

    "It''s not just you," Raelle looked over and found Xiang Weimin standing beside her. "They do look very energetic to me too."

    "What are you doing here? Are you gonna buy the rings for her too?"

    "I haven''t even bought rings for myself in life, why would I jump up to buy it for my sister?"

 Chapter 1241 Bet On That

    Chapter 1241 Bet On That

    "Then are you gonna buy the rings for yourself?" asked Raelle as she faced him seriously.

    Xiang Weimin smiled at her and shook his head, "No."

    "Really no?"

    "It''s really a big fat NO!"

    "Why?"

    "I shouldn''t need to exin this to you of all people, my dear little sister," said Xiang Weimin. "I''m already shocked enough that you agreed with Hyson''s nonsensical idea of me being with Tang Hebe.

    "You''d be surprised to know how many times I have fallen for Hyson''s nonsensical ideas."

    Xiang Weimin chuckled at that. He had, of course, heard and seen a thing or two about this. "Leaving aside everything else, she isn''t the kind of a woman I''d consider for the role of my life partner."

    "Okay."

    "That''s it?" he asked in surprise. He thought she''d ask more than that but when she didn''t, he was truly a bit taken aback.

    "Even if we are arranging a marriage, the prerequisite of the marriage is to have a good impression of one another. Also, you must be able to see your life ahead with the other person. And when you say you didn''t see that with her, then that''s it. There is no other argument even needed around here."

    "Tsk. You''re such a contradictory person to get along with," said Xiang Weimin.

    "Why?"

    "Sometimes, you make people feel like you''re a very difficult person to get along with, and at other times, you be very easy to get along with like right now."

    "It''s a part of my charm."

    Xiang Weiminughed at that and nodded his head in agreement, "Indeed. That''s definitely a part of your superior charm."

    Seeing him paying attention to the jewelry store, Raelle finally asked, "I heard you guyse in for car shopping."

    "Yeah."

    "Then how did she get to the jewelry store?"

    Xiang Weimin sighed, "You ask me, who am I supposed to ask? At first, she wanted me to buy her all kinds of snacks. At this moment, my car''s trunk is filled with her snacks. Then we went to see the cars. She had to test drive every car that caught her eye. We wasted 2 hours there. Two! Oh, in the end, she didn''t want to buy any of the cars she rode. So, after that, she pulled me to this shopping mall to buy her new clothes. Giving her wardrobe a makeover were her exact words. And trust me, it''s not fun shopping with her." He sighed heavily, "Especially since she can''t make up her mind. She wasted all of my day and barely bought anything. And then she suddenly looked at her phone and ran away. When I followed her, well, she was choosing rings. So, yeah. If you ask me how we ended up here, I have no clue."

    "You wasted your time and money on her all day," stated Raelle. "What did you get out of it exactly?"

    "Her happiness," he answered calmly.

    "Really?"

    "Really," he insisted. "You should have seen the sparkle in her eyes when she was dragging me around the whole day. So, I think trading my money and time for her happiness isn''t all that bad. It''s not every day I get to spoil my sister like this."

    Raelle gave him a strange look but didn''tment on it. Of course, she couldn''t understand his views. Did she think it was a worthwhile trade-off? In fact, she wasn''t sure right now and that''s why she didn''t want toment on it. She would have called him a fool if it was a year back but she had gone through a lot in the past year. So, she didn''t want toment at all.

    "You know, I''d be even happier to spend money on you," said Xiang Weimin. "Because I didn''t get to do that all my life. It''s pretty normal between me and Wai. Even my very first sry was spent on her. So, I don''t find it a problem. But you... I never bought you anything."

    "I don''t want anything," replied Raelle.

    "I know, my rich sister!" Xiang Weimin joked. "But you can give your brother a chance to experience this feeling, no?"

    Raelle looked around and started walking, Xiang Weimin didn''t know where she was going but he followed her. They took the esctor one floor above and finally, Raelle pointed towards something, "Go and buy me a slushie."

    Xiang Weimin looked at the drinks and then looked at her asking, "Seriously? You think your brother is that poor that he can only afford this?"

    "No, I find it really unnecessary to buy anything else that I don''t even need right now. So, I feel like trying that thing, I am asking you to buy it. This is not me calling you poor. Poor people don''t look like you anyway."

    Xiang Weimin touched his nose and went to buy her the slushie she asked for. But suddenly came back to ask, "Which vor do you want?"

    "I don''t know. When you''re buying something for me, the very first rule is; to be good at making choices. Because I ain''t gonna be making those for you or for myself."

    "Got it," said Xiang Weimin and went back.

    "He is easier to order around than Hyson,"mented Raelle to herself. And it was a fact that Xiang Weimin was way easier to manage than that hyperactive best friend of hers. It took her a while to convince him for anything.

    Raelle looked around at the crowd on this floor and was a little ufortable. So, she looked for an empty corner and went to stand there, waiting for Xiang Weimin. As for Cloe and Xiang Wai, well, she didn''t think they''d be needing her help or ratherck of help. So, it was better to stay here than to go back and listen to their bickering. And she for sure knew that they''d still be bickering over something. She could bet on that. She couldn''t possibly be wrong with her guess regarding this.

 Chapter 1242 [Bonus chapter] Stronger

    Chapter 1242 [Bonus chapter] Stronger

    "Here is your lemonade slushie," Xiang Weimin extended the cup towards her.

    Raelle looked at the blue-colored slushie in his hand then at the clear one he offered to her.

    "This is a blueberry one and it''ll definitely leave some color on your tongue. Do you wanna swap?"

    "I don''t swap things," said Raelle as she hurriedly took the lemonade slushie from him making him smile at her helplessly.

    "Shall we sit down somewhere?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "Too many people," answered Raelle.

    "Well, it''s summer vacations for people. And even if it isn''t a weekend night, people still like hanging out at night. Just because you don''t have a nightlife doesn''t mean others don''t too."

    "Was that sarcasm?"

    "Why would I be sarcastic with you, Raelle? Just take my words as it is because I am no different. So, I really don''t get to be sarcastic with you about anything. Do you understand that?"

    "Understood."

    "Good!"

    They walked around together aimlessly as Raelel asked, "By the way, how is it?"

    "What?"

    "Being a father?"

    "Easier than being your elder brother, I''d say," said Xiang Weimin.

    Raelle looked at him as he smiled back at her.

    "I''m serious. It''s way easier than being your elder brother. Makes me wonder if it''d have been easier to be your elder brother if we had met when you were Justin''s age."

    "No," answered Raelle. "I was even more difficult back then."

    "You remember that?" he asked.

    "I remember," she told him. "That was the age when I was the most curious and most stubborn about my views. I did not like people telling me that the world outside of the books was a different ce and I could not treat it the same way. I had no concept of feelings making itmonce for me to say things that weren''t very nice. And that''s me putting it mildly."

    "Aren''t you still the same?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "The other day I was looking at my reflection in the mirror trying to figure out if I was really the same person. However, I can assure you that I am not. Even I could tell that I was no longer the same person that I once was. There are a lot of things that happened in thest year that made me change subtly without realizing it. By the time even I noticed the changes, the change was done."

    "So, are you unsatisfied with this change?"

    "I''m not sure whether I''m satisfied or not with it. But I know I''m more epting of change than I ever was," told Raelle. "If you ask any person who had been with me. No, you just ask Cloe and you''d realize that my life had been the same in the past ten years since she was with me. All because I didn''t like changes so everything had a routine and everything seemed repetitive in life too. You can even say I was living the same day over and over again. Time was stuck for me and everything was the same untilst year."

    "What changed? Xian?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "The biggest change was actually when Opa said he wanted us to move back to his home country. He said he wanted to die in the familiarnd where his ancestors shed blood and gave their lives and where he also sacrificed a lot. I guess at that very moment, I knew that life was gonna change from now. I also knew that my frozen time was about to start ticking again. Whether I''d like it or not, I could do nothing about it."

    "You didn''t refuse when he wanted toe here. After all, it''s not easy to suddenly pick up your whole empire and move to a whole new continent to start again."

    "The number of times I have refused my Opa can be counted on one hand," said Raelle. "I never had the habit of refusing when it came to him."

    "The way people spoke about you, it was hard for me to tell that you''d turn out to be someone who really value family."

    "I don''t value family. What I value is people who I know have done a lot for me. It doesn''t matter whether it''s Opa, Yanyan, Hyson, or even Yue. It''s because I value their love and care for me that I consider them family. There is no other factor involved."

    Xiang Weimin took a deep breath, "Sometimes I wonder what if mom''s character was like you just as her personality is."

    "Then you shouldn''t have those thoughts. What if is one of the most useless expression in the world. Because you know it''s never gonna happen. Besides, Professor Xin''ai and I are very different. I''ll tell you what I told her. Maybe, we are the same kind of people. Like mother, like daughter. But the biggest difference came when she grew up in a big family feeling lonely and I grew up in a small family that revolved all around me. I was shaped into who I am with love. If she had that love and attention as I did, maybe some choices of her life would have been different and maybe she would have been a different person today."

    Xiang Weimin fell into deep thought and couldn''t refute her words. He had to agree with everything she said.

    "By the way, didn''t you grow up with your dad?" asked Raelle. "But why I do get the impression that you worry more about your mother?"

    Xiang Weimin looked at her, "Maybe because I''m the eldest son of the family and I got too much love when I was born. I also saw a lot more than you and Wai. It''s not that I don''t think about dad but it''s just that, I think dad is stronger than mom."

    "You think so?"

    "I know so," said Xiang Weimin. "You know that our dad is a very generous person in life? He is such a nice person that you''d be shocked. Because it''s hard to tell from his face that he could be that kind. But the fact is that he is. Even when mom was trying to pull away from him back then, he did everything possible to make sure that she doesn''t fall apart and shatter. He knew everything but he still went along with her wishes. And he never let go of his habit of checking up on her. Because he knew once she entered theb, she''d forget everything and if he also forgot her, then perhaps, no one will bother remembering her at all."

 Chapter 1243 To Be Funny

    Chapter 1243 To Be Funny

    Obviously, Raelle didn''t know these details at all. In fact, she knew very little about her blood-rted family members. She was never interested in inquiring about them either. But now that Xiang Weimin brought up the topic and was even willing to share his feelings with her, she didn''t mind being a good listener too.

    "When I was young, Dad would even remind me to contact Mom more often. I never understood what he was up to. I even asked him once what he wanted. Didn''t they get a divorce? Why was he still so concerned about her? But he only said, that even if they got a divorce she was still my mother. And I should never forget that. It was always difficult to understand his thoughts."

    "Did you understand him now?" asked Raelle.

    "Maybe. Maybe not," he answered. "I''m not saying that Mom is weak but it''s a fact that she needs more love and care. It''s like what you said earlier, She grew up in aplicated environment which shaped her into who she is right now. She is not a weak woman but she was made to believe all her life that she is. Dad on the other hand had always had the support of his family. And maybe that''s why he wanted to always share the warmth with her even when they separated."

    "Do you want them to get back together?" asked Raelle.

    "No," answered Xiang Weimin. "It''s not up to me. It''s not my decision. If they wanted to be together for the sake of their kids, they would have done that years ago. I don''t think they needed to waste so many years. Back then, it was their decision and it''s still their decision. But I''m positive that they don''t have such thoughts."

    "Even when they love each other?"

    "Love changes its form with years," said Xiang Weimin. "It doesn''t always stay passionate. Eventually, it does turn into familial love. There is nothing wrong with it but it''s a fact that it changes. In their case, their love also changes from rather familial to friendship. Now, they find it a lot morefortable to just stay as each other''s support. And I''m more than happy with that. At least, they aren''t estranged."

    "Don''t children always want their parents to be together?"

    "I''m not a child anymore," reminded Xiang Weimin. "If there is one person who still would have that thought, that is Wai."

    "You think, Major Xiang Wai still desires for aplete family?"

    "I don''t think so. I know so," said Xiang Weimin. "I don''t need to tell you that she is a lot more sensitive and emotional than the two of us. That makes her rather unique in our family."

    "It doesn''t make her weird?"

    "No, I think we are the weird ones. Don''t you agree?"

    Raelle licked her lips and nodded her head in agreement, "Fine. I do agree with that." She took a pause and asked, "So, did you buy a new car? I heard you also wanted to change your car. What made you realize that it was time to do that?"

    "Isn''t it because of you?" asked Xiang Weimin. "Seeing you sitting in my old car made me realize that it was about time for me to move on. No matter how you cherish the old rtionship, eventually, you have to look forward and keep pace with the rest of the world."

    "We are talking about cars, right?"

    "Right. Why are you asking?"

    "Just confirming it," she replied. "I never got to ask you, do you think Chi Xirui really loved you?"

    "That question came out of nowhere," hemented.

    "Did it? It just came to my mind so I asked."

    "How would I know if she really loved me or not? We had such a brief rtionship that I was unable to understand what she really felt for me. Why do you think I even forgot about it? I''m not that careless in life. It''s truly because the encounter was so brief that I didn''t think it was important enough to remember. How would I know yearster, she''ll drop a bomb in my life like this?"

    "Justin is a bomb?"

    "That''s my son!"

    "Then don''t use suchnguage that could make people misunderstand."

    Xiang Weimin shook his head and said, "You understand my words very well. You''re just purposely finding faults now."

    "Actually, that''s true. I just realized how fun it is."

    "It''s not fun."

    "But it is."

    "How?"

    "I am the one seeing your expression of frustration so of course, it''s fun to me."

    Xiang Weimin gave her a strange look, "Is it just me, or you''re bing naughty now?"

    "Am I? Aren''t I boring?"

    want to eat? Aren''t you hungry?"

    "You are anything but boring," said Xiang Weimin. "What else do you want to eat? Aren''t you hungry?"

    "You really want to buy me a dinner?"

    "YES!"

    "Let''s see," said Raelle.

    "It''s really surprising to see you here. I did not think I''d run into you here."

    "What''s surprising about it?"

    "You came with your assistant to choose rings. You don''t see anything odd about that?"

    "I''m a very loyal person. Since Cloe has been with me for so long and has done so much. I don''t see a reason why I can''t repay her a little bit. It''s just apanying her. No big deal."

    "Tsk. You''re really a perfectbination of Mom and Dad."

    "Oh."

    "That''s it?"

    "What else?"

    "I said you''re abination of Mom and Dad."

    "I have their genes. It''d be weirder if I''m not like the two of them. Don''t you think so?"

    Xiang Weimin sighed, "It''s me. I''m the fool."

    "Really? Why didn''t you say so earlier?" She took a step away from him as she asked, "Is it contagious?"

    Xiang Weimin smiled at her helplessly and said, "Wow! Now, you''re learning to be funny too. I can''t believe it."

    Raelle shrugged in response carelessly. She didn''t even realize it that she had gotten way toofortable with Xiang Weimin without her realizing it.

 Chapter 1244 Yes, He Does

    Chapter 1244 Yes, He Does

    "Chief, where did you go?"

    "It took me so long to find you both," said Xiang Wai too.

    Raelle looked at the two of them panting and asked, "Are you done choosing your rings?"

    Xiang Wai and Cloe shared a hostile look before saying, "Yeah. It''s done."

    "Good," was Raelle''s response. "Can we leave now?" This question was for Cloe with whom she came here.

    "You still remember that you came here with me? I thought youpletely forgot all about me."

    "If you hadn''t gotten on my nerves, why would I walk away?"

    "Yes, yes. It''s my fault. I''m sorry. But it''s my lifelong event. I want it to be memorable and perfect too."

    "Do you remember how I proposed to my husband?"

    "I do."

    "I didn''t use a ring," reminded Raelle. "And I don''t think it makes a difference either."

    "It''s a sense of ritual, Chief!" said Cloe. "You really don''t get it."

    "True. It''s a sense of ritual that matters. It''s not the rings per se," agreed Xiang Wai with her.

    "Oh, so now you are both on the same page? Who was at each other''s throat earlier?" asked Raelle.

    Cloe looked away while Xiang Wai touched the tip of her nose.

    "It happens. Life is all about ups and downs. We can not always be on the same page with each other. But that doesn''t mean we gotta stay enemies for life or something too."

    "Let''s get something to eat, Chief. Don''t think about other things right now," said Cloe.

    "She would like to eat dinner with her hubby. Who are you?" Xiang Wai was practically ring at Raelle in dissatisfaction all because Raelle wasn''t gonna eat with them. Oh, but it seemed Raelle hadn''t even answered yet.

    "My hubby told me to eat out today," said Raelle to everyone''s surprise. "He also said to make sure to make Cloe pay too."

    "I''ll pay! I''ll pay however you want to. Let''s have dinner now!" Cloe was excited to know this. She didn''t mind paying. Anyway, she was the one who called Raelle out, so she was supposed to pay for dinner at least. "By the way, Master Xian is truly okay with you having dinner with me?"

    "What do you think?" asked Raelle.

    Cloe muttered to herself, "I thought he was too petty for that."

    "What?"

    "Nothing."

    "Don''t bad mouth my husband while I''m standing right here."

    "Yes, Chief!"

    "Since we are having dinner out today. Where should we go? Do you wanna eat here or should we go out to another ce?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "You''reing too?" asked Cloe.

    "Yes, I am. Don''t worry. I won''t make you pay for my meal."

    "No, that''s not what I meant," said Cloe in embarrassment.

    "How about having a hot pot?" came Xiang Wai''s suggestion. She was really the only one thinking about food seriously right now.

    "It''ll make us all feel smoky," said Cloe. "You sure about it?"

    "Why not? It''s a perfect meal to have with friends."

    "In the middle of summer?"

    "Who cares about the weather when ites to hot pot? Don''t be such a mood spoiler now."

    "Why do you both love to argue so much?" asked Raelle. "I thought you had a pretty good bonding." She took a pause and added, "Let''s go and have that hot pot."

    "Really, Chief?" asked Cloe. "You? You want to have a hot pot?"

    "You''re asking as if I said I wanna try going to the moon."

    "No, that''d be less shocking to me."

    In this manner, they decided to eat hot pot together and went to the famous hot pot store which was on the fourth floor. Soon, they got a private room and sat down. Xiang Weimin consciously filled the ss of water for all thedies around him since he was the only man stuck between them. Not that he minded considering two were his sisters and Cloe... Well, he didn''t mind looking at her as a sister too since she was considered a part of their family already.

    "Now, that we are sitting down," started Cloe. "Let me ask you, Wai. Which bug got to you? Why did you suddenly think of buying rings? I would have thought that you were following me if I didn''t know that no one told you about us shopping for rings today."

    Xiang Wai took a sip of the water and then told her, "I have to make my im on my man. If I wanna stamp him. I gotta put a ring on it."

    Cloe frowned and suddenly had a schadenfreude look on her face as she asked, "Somone is trying to steal your boyfriend?"

    "Yeah. Someone is blind and an idiot too," said Xiang Wai. "So, I gotta put her in her ce since she seemed to have not taken me seriously thest time."

    "Someone didn''t take Major Xiang Wai seriously? What a shocker!"

    "You can drop that smirk and it''d be more believable right now."

    "I am not even trying to be believable right now. I am letting you know that I love this drama!"

    "F^&*(@#.... Forget it!"

    "Don''t swear!"

    "I didn''t."

    Cloe shook her head at her while Xiang Wai took a deep breath.

    "Who is it?" asked Xiang Weimin. "Who isn''t taking my sister seriously? Tell me, I''ll take care of it for you."

    "I can handle it, Ge," said Xiang Wai. "And if I am not able to, I''ll look for you."

    "You don''te looking for me until and unless it''s thest resort," reminded Xiang Weimin.

    Xiang Wai gave him a big grin in response, "Because I know you''d still have my back."

    "Spoiled!"mented Cloe.

    Xiang Wai gave her a look, "Yes, I am a spoiled sister! So what? My brother loves me. What does that have to do with others? I don''t think that should be anyone''s concern. That''s my Ge! And he loves me!"

    "Yes, he does," there was some bitterness in thatment of Cloe that Raelle could hear very clearly but she didn''t join their conversation at all.

 Chapter 1245 Not An Old Lady

    Chapter 1245 Not An Old Lady

    "On a serious note, if someone isn''t taking you seriously, don''t you need to think about what really is the problem?" asked Cloe. "Maybe you aren''t doing a very good job at iming ownership. Or maybe your boyfriend is giving someone mixed signals," she had an evil smile when she said that.

    Xiang Wai didn''t lose her temper this time. She was a fool but she still wasn''t gonna fall for this trick.

    "Or maybe, this ''someone'' is a psycho!" said Xiang Wai. "And I think that''s a lot more believable."

    "Why? Why can''t it be the other two reasons?" asked Cloe.

    "If you have moral integrity, you''d know that once a man or a woman has a partner, that''s a sign for you to back off. Whether they are a good match or not is their business. Not yours to try ande in between them. And if you''re doing that, it just makes you a very cheap person."

    "It seems you are still very sober."

    "I might get drunk on love, but that doesn''t mean I lose my mind," answered Xiang Wai. "You really underestimate me too much."

    Cloe nodded her head and didn''t continue as the server brought in the ingredients for the hot pot. All of them picked up their chopsticks and started taking the ingredients of their choice to soak in the clear soup or the spicy one as per their favorites.

    "When are you both going to propose?" asked Raelle.

    "I haven''t decided yet," said Xiang Wai.

    "Then why did you steal my rings? I nned it for next week!"

    Xiang Wai rolled her eyes at Cloe, "That''s still not good enough reason for me to give up." She took a pause and asked, "You already nned it?"

    "Yeah. I hired an event nner."

    "You did what?"

    "What?" asked Cloe. "Event nners also organize proposals. Dreamy, romantic, nostalgic, memorable, whatever you want, they offer."

    "It''s your proposal, why are you getting strangers involved?"

    "She is toozy to do all that herself," Raelle chimed in.

    "Chief! That''s not the reason."

    "What else? Lie to someone who doesn''t know you. It''s obvious that you want something grand but you don''t wanna lift a finger. So, you hired an event nner."

    Cloe couldn''t argue with her over this so she humphed and concentrated on eating.

    "Major won''t go for a grand proposal for sure," said Raelle.

    "No, I won''t," answered Xiang Wai.

    "It seems you have a n too."

    "I do," agreed Xiang Wai. "Would you like to be a part of it?"

    Raelle looked at her sparkling eyes and thought about it for a moment before nodding her head, "Sure if you don''t think I''m intruding."

    "Would you give me an extra point in the bridesmaidpetition?"

    "No."

    Xiang Wai''s face fell, "Forget it. I''d still call you. In fact, I''d call you all to see."

    "Why?"

    "You have to capture the moment I bring Zhai Yanjun to tears," said Xiang Wai very righteously.

    "Since you already have a n. Why haven''t you picked a day yet?"

    "Isn''t it because I want everyone to be there? It''s just that Yue Fai is not around."

    Raelle paused when she heard that and then she stared at Xiang Wai, "Don''t you love arguing with him? Why are you being so considerate now?"

    "At the end of the day, he is still Yanjun''s brother. And even if we argue, he is still family. Can''t leave him alone just cause he is so busy out there."

    "Then I''d like to say thank you on his behalf for thinking about him so much," said Raelle.

    "I never thought Raelle would be willing to talk about gratitude on behalf of another person. I guess only Fai has that honor," said Xiang Wai.

    "He does get some privileges."

    After that, they all ate while talking about some random things. By the time, they were done, it was already past 10 o''clock at night.

    "How about seeing ate-night movie?" suggested Xiang Weimin.

    "Let''s go home," said Raelle.

    "Why? Don''t wanna watch a movie with us?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "No."

    Xiang Weimin choked on air with how simply and easily she said no. He took a deep breath to calm himself.

    "But you went to the movies with Xian," reminded Xiang Wai.

    "That''s my husband."

    "You went with Fai too."

    "I only go to watch horror movies with Hyson. Please, correct your facts."

    "We can watch horror too," said Xiang Weimin.

    "Are you scared of horror movies?" asked Raelle.

    "No. What''s there to be afraid about?" He is someone who has seen real blood and death around him. Why would he be scared of imaginary ghosts? It didn''t even make sense.

    "Then it''s no fun," said Raelle. "Do you think I go to movies with Hyson for fun? It''s not that I enjoy the movie, his reaction to horror movies is a lot more enjoyable than what''s on the screen. Next time, take him to a horror movie and you''d understand what I mean. Also, you don''t even like movies. Why insist on dragging me into this?"

    When Xiang Weimin went silent, Cloe couldn''t help asking, "Weimin brother, you don''t like watching movies?"

    "No," answered Xiang Weimin.

    "Why?"

    "I don''t think you need a reason for that," said Xiang Weimin. "I just don''t watch movies."

    "Do you watch tv?" she asked.

    "Yeah. Sometimes."

    "What do you watch on tv? News? Or boring documentaries like Chief?"

    "Neither. I watch sports."

    "Ah!" Cloe had a look of understanding and stopped asking questions.

    "Are we done here? Can we go home now?" asked Raelle. "It''s way past my curfew."

    "You have a curfew at this age? Who set it?"

    "Me! I set it for myself. Because I am a very disciplined person."

    "That was a pointless question," said Xiang Wai to herself and sighed. "Let''s go home then. I wanted to try that toy machine but now, let''s not."

    "Are you a kid?" asked Cloe.

    "At least, I''m not an olddy like you," retorted Xiang Wai.

    Raelle walked away from the two of them who had be too spicy and easily irritable tonight for no reason. She really needed to get back home right now.

 Chapter 1246: All Are Grandchildren

    Chapter 1246: All Are GrandchildrenSong Xin''ai arrived quitete at the Song family house but surprisingly, everyone seemed to be awake at this time and was gathered in the main room. As if waiting for her toe and stand in for the trial. She mentally sighed to herself and reminded herself for a millionth time that murder was a crime. And she was aw-abiding citizen. She should stick with her principles.

    Only after convincing herself, did she step in.

    "You unfilial thing, kneel!"

    Song Xin''ai avoided the vase that flew towards her head easily but did not move to kneel as she was ordered by her mother.

    "Mother, feudalism is no longer a thing in our modern society. You should really move forward with the new age and leave your old habits behind."

    Grandma Song''s eyes widened when she heard that from her most timid daughter. Not only her but everyone in the room had an indescribable look on their faces when they heard that from Song Xin''ai. When had Song Xin''ai ever talked back to Grandma Song? No matter how unreasonable this olddy was, Song Xin''ai was toozy to argue back.

    And that''s why everyone had gotten used to her silence in such situations. They seemed to have forgotten that she wasn''t as obedient as she seemed. If she was, she wouldn''t have gone against everyone in this family to marry Xiang Hulin back then.

    It could be said that Song Xin''ai had gottenzier over the years because after her divorce she truly gave up on herself and just went with the flow in life. As long as these people didn''t go too far, she''d still go along with their wishes but it seemed, that gave them a very wrong impression of who she really was.

    "How dare you talk back to me?!" shouted Grandma Song with her eyes turning red and her breathing getting harsh.

    Seeing this, her sister moved over and patted Grandma Song''s chest in worry as she looked at Song Xin''ai in usation, "Sister, how can you speak to mother like this? What if she gets sick? Apologize to her!"

    "If I am able to talk, why can''t I talk back to her?" asked Song Xin''ai finding it very funny. "Oh, and you can drop the act. It''s been too overdone. Even I''m tired of watching it. Just because I don''t say it doesn''t mean that I am blind."

    Her sister and her mother both froze because of her reaction and didn''t know how to continue this act that they had been ying for years.

    Grandpa Song cleared his throat to get everyone''s attention which also gave Grandma Song to take a step down without losing her majesty.

    "Xin''ai," started Grandpa Song. "Your sister went to see your daughter. We invited her for your mother''s birthday but she insulted your sister. She did not give our Song family a face. What are you gonna do about it?"

    Song Xin''ai finally understood why she was called here. She came out ofb after days and the first message she received was that her family had something urgent and wanted her to go back home. So, this is an urgent matter. They went to Raelle and got pped in the face so now they came to her to seek justice?

    She did not think this scheming family would have a day where they''d collectively act like fools.

    "Wai didn''t tell me anything about this," said Song Xin''ai actingpletely oblivious. Like she didn''t know which daughter they were speaking about. But did it matter? They didn''t rify it themselves. Can''t me her for this. "I''ll call her right now and ask her how can she talk back to her aunt."

    "It''s not Wai," said her sister. "It''s Raelle we are talking about."

    Song Xin''ai had a look of understanding but soon she looked a little embarrassed as she said, "Oh, it''s Raelle. Then... I''m sorry I can''t help you seek justice, sister. You see, if it was Wai I could still call her and reprimand her for anything. But Raelle is just a daughter of mine in name. I don''t even dare to call her my daughter out loud to people."

    Those words struck her sister who was reminded of what Raelle told her in the office. Even Song Xin''ai didn''t dare to call herself her mother, who was she to im to be her aunt?

    "How can you not? You gave birth to her!" said Grandma Song stubbornly.

    "I only gave birth to her and then I lost her too," reminded Song Xin''ai. "It was my ex-mother-inw who gave her the real life. I really can''t just go and say anything to her. Besides, in all these years she had been the only granddaughter of the Xiang family so they are very protective of her. If I even said a wrong word, even Mu Chenyan won''t let me go."

    "How dare she! Who is she? She isn''t even the Xiang family''s daughter," yelled Grandma Song.

    "That''s what you and I can say behind closed doors but Xiang family doesn''t like to hear that. My ex-mother-inw made it clear to everyone that she considered Mu Chenyan her own daughter. And even Mr. Xiang Tianyu sees her as a part of the family. So, she does have the right to speak on behalf of the Xiang family. At least more than I do. Not only that but, as I said, they have a closer bond with Raelle. She is their bottom line. I wouldn''t wanna try my luck by going to challenge her. So, I can only wrong my sister here."

    She looked so genuinely apologetic that none of them could tell if she was acting or was she really sincere? However, it didn''t really matter at the moment considering that her words made them all jolt a little.

    "Is Xiang Tianyu going to be so partial? All are his grandchildren. He can''t favor one over another," said Grandpa Song.

    "But it''s a fact that Raelle grew up in front of his eyes and the other two didn''t. How can he be not partial?"

    Mentally she rolled her eyes at her parents, as if they weren''t partial at all. Hypocrites!

 Chapter 1247 Overturn The Boat

    1247 Overturn The Boat

    Song Xin''ai really didn''t think there was anyone more partial than her own parents and they had the nerve to call Grandpa Xiang partial? He was a fair and upright person. It was true that he was slightly partial when it came to Raelle but as she said, Raelle did grow up in front of her eyes.

    Emotionally, he would be more attached to that girl whom he watched all her life rather than Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai. But it didn''t mean he was unfair. He would give the other two whatever he gave Raelle too. He would never suppress one just to lift the other.

    So, yes. She did think he was a lot fairer than her own family.

    "You don''t confuse us with your eloquence," said Grandma Song in a bad mood. "No matter what, that girl is still your daughter. You brought her into this world. How can she deny you? You need to establish your authority as a mother."

    Song Xin''ai actually felt likeughing right now at the extravagant idea of her mother. "That girl is already married. She isn''t a kid who I can control. I''m not an opponent of the Xiang family who treats her as a precious jewel and I am no opponent of her inws'' family either. After all, the Shui family isn''t a soft persimmon either."

    "Sister, you''re just finding excuses now," said her brother from the side. "Are you asking us to swallow this breath? How is that possible? We extended a hand towards her in good faith and she dared to p on our faces. We are still her elders. She shouldn''t have been so rude."

    "Oh please! Everyone in this room knows how much good faith was involved in this move. Do you think Raelle is a fool like me? I might be suppressed by filial piety. She isn''t. I might bezy to deal with you all but she isn''t. She was raised by Xiang Tianyu and Mu Chenyan personally. Both of them are tough nuts. Do you really expect that they raised a soft and gullible little girl? If she was so naive, she wouldn''t be named one of the best entrepreneurs. She wouldn''t be called a business genius if she was so delicate and easily deceived. You can stop doing these sneaky moves and it might save you. Don''t go in front of her to remind her of your annoying presence or she might lose it and it won''t end well for this family."

    "How are you talking?" asked Grandpa Song with a stern face.

    "Am I not speaking English? Is it difficult to understand, Father? I think you understand but you are purposely refusing to understand. All because you have realized how much benefit Raelle can bring you. Not because she is an Xiang. But also because she is Raelle Xiang! However, I''d still tell you honestly. She isn''t me. I might be an insecure and love-deprived person who would fall for your sweet bullets but Raelle doesn''tck anything. Not even family. So, what makes you think you will go and invite her to a birthday and she''lle running? It makes me truly question if you all are too naive or something to even have this idea?"

    Considering that Song Xin''ai was already tired from work and had also begun to get out of herzy shell, it was no surprise that she said what was on her mind without any burden. She didn''t depend on this family. She once truly respected her parents and kept giving in to them but there is always a limit to how much you can bend. Eventually, you''d break too.

    She sighed heavily and said, "Next time, please don''t call me for something like this. I really thought you had an urgent matter. But this... This was truly a waste of time. I could have used this time to catch up on my sleep. At least, I''d live a day longer if I slept well. What am I getting out of this so-called urgent discussion?" With that, she didn''t give anyone a face and turned to leave without looking back.

    She didn''tck this so-called family anymore. She had her own kids. Even though they weren''t attached to her. But none of them hated her or always schemed to get benefits out of her. If anything, they all wanted her well-being. Even the most indifferent Raelle would tell her to pay attention to her health. But she had never heard it from her blood-rted rtives.

    Watching her leave like this, there were plenty of people in the main room who were panicking in their hearts. All these people were so used to Song Xin''ai''s submissiveness that they took it for granted but now that she was no longer willing to bow down, they panicked.

    Grandma Song pped her hand on the table in rage, "Who is it? Who is giving her this confidence again? Which bastard is it? Last time it was that Xiang Hulin that swept her away from my control and now, there is someone else? Go and find out if she has been in contact with the Xiang familytely. I don''t believe she can have the audacity to go against me without someone fanning the mes behind the scenes. It seems she has forgotten thest lesson."

    "You should be careful with whatever you do," said Grandpa Song tiredly. If possible, he didn''t want to be enemies with Song Xin''ai. She wasn''t just the most promising daughter he had but she was also the most filial. He knew very well how much the other people in this family truly cared about him and the old woman. But he knew his wife was stubborn and he wouldn''t be able to control her at all. "Just don''t go as far as you did thest time," he warned in a low voice to his wife.

    "You are afraid again? They couldn''t find the traces of my maniption back then. How can they do it now?"

    "Times are different. Back then no one went into further depth just because of the death of the Xiang family''s Matriarch. But this time... Anyway, don''t overturn your boat with your overconfidence."

 Chapter 1248 Family Tradition

    1248 Family Tradition

    Song Xin''ai walked out of the Song family house and took a deep breath. Looking at the sky full of stars, she smiled as she said, "It''s a beautiful night. It seems talking is tiring but once in a while, it isn''t that bad either." She was very satisfied with what she said tonight, so she walked towards her car leisurely and even hummed an unknown tune.

    She didn''t listen to music and her music sense was just as good as Raelle too. So, the tune she hummed made no sense. But someone with a keen sense of music could still tell it was a very old song that she was humming right now.

    As she got into her car, she checked her phone. As the screen lit up, there was a picture of the three of her kids that she had taken at Raelle''s engagement party. It wasn''t a surprise that it was the only picture she had of all her kids together. Just looking at their faces, her heart felt even more lightened.

    She had some messages, so she opened the weChat to look at the messages. After that, she ended up looking at the Moments. At the very top, she found a picture of her kids eating hot pot together. It seemed to be taken tonight. She was pleasantly surprised. The photo was posted by Xiang Wai with the caption: ''Thanks for the meal, Cloe.''

    Her fingers lightly touched the faces of her kids before she liked the post and exited the WeChat. Fastening her seatbelt, she started the car to leave.

    As she got on the highway, her phone rang. She usually would ignore the calls when she was driving but when she saw the caller ID, she put the phone on speaker.

    "You are not in theb?" came Xiang Wai''s question as soon as she picked up the call.

    "No," answered Song Xin''ai.

    "If you''re not in theb at this time then you should be asleep. Why are you awake? No, where are you exactly?"

    Song Xin''ai pursed her lips. No matter what, even Xiang Wai knew that if she wasn''t in theb then she should be sleeping at this time. And if she wasn''t that means she wasn''t home. She thought this daughter of hers didn''t like paying attention to her. But it seemed she was still wrong.

    "I was called back to the Song family," answered Song Xin''ai honestly. Even though she knew Xiang Wai hated even the name of that family, she still couldn''t lie to her daughter so she calmly told the truth.

    "What do they want from you now?" asked Xiang Wai. "Whatever it is. Don''t stupidly agree to it. Even if you''re not tired, I''m tired of you doing their bidding."

    Song Xin''ai smiled to herself as she answered, "Don''t worry. I didn''t agree. I will never agree with them again."

    "Promise?" There was a hint of anticipation in her voice that she couldn''t conceal very well.

    Song Xin''ai felt a bit sore in her heart when she heard that and decisively replied, "Promise!"

    "I''ll hold on to this promise then," said Xiang Wai. She saw that Song Xin''ai liked her post at this time and she didn''t know why she thought of calling her mother. But she did. She didn''t think she''d get a promise like this from her by calling at this time. This was a precious promise. After all, she still had faith in Song Xin''ai''s words. If she promised, then it was a done deal.

    "Why aren''t you sleeping?" asked Song Xin''ai. "You don''t have a habit of staying awake too."

    "I was nning how to propose," told Xiang Wai.

    "Oh?" Song Xin''ai''s interest was piqued. "Are you proposing to Zhai Yanjun?"

    "Yeah. Why I can''t?"

    "No, of course you can. But are you following your little sister now?"

    "I''m not alone in this. You should look online. Raelle became a real trendsetter."

    Song Xin''ai smiled listening to her and asked, "So, what did you n?"

    "I want to make him cry. Can''te up with the idea," told Xiang Wai in frustration.

    "Why do you have to make him cry?" asked Song Xin''ai.

    "Because I already bragged in front of Raelle that I have a n. All because I wanted to one-up Cloe who hired an event nner for her proposal. Now, I can''t even go to Ge to ask for advice or my lie will be exposed."

    Song Xin''ai paused for a moment before asking cautiously, "Do you want mom to help?"

    Xiang Wai was startled by her question. Then she smiled to herself and asked, "You will help?"

    "Why not? If I won''t help my own daughter, who am I gonna help?"

    "Well, I agree that you''re great but mom, can you really n a proposal? I can''t bring myself to believe that."

    "Why not?"

    "Because it was Dad who chased you back then."

    "But my dear daughter, it was Mom who proposed to your Dad back then."

    "What?! Why don''t I know this detail?"

    "You can ask your Dad if you don''t believe me."

    Xiang Wai was truly taken by surprise with this turn of events. Wait a minute. It seems to run in the family. Mom proposed to Dad. Raelle proposed to Xian and now her. "Then it seems I''m carrying on the family tradition."

    Song Xin''aiughed at her high-sounding reasoning but didn''t dampen her mood.

    "Are you free?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "I have all the time for you, Wai."

    Xiang Wai paused and then asked, "Then let''s meet. I''lle over to your ce. Is that okay?"

    "Okay," agreed Song Xin''ai happily.

    "You keep thinking about ideas. I have to make sure that Yanjun burst into tears. That''s how touching the proposal should be."

    "Yes, yes. I''ll do my best for my daughter."

    "I can trust you, right?"

    "You can ask your aunt if you can trust me in this matter or not."

    Xiang Wai had a suspicious look on her face and said, "Then I will ask her in the morning."

    "Okay. Good night now! Stop thinking and go to sleep on time."

    "Alright. Have you reached?"

    "Yeah. I''m just parking my car."

    "Okay. Then goodbye! I''ll see you soon!" Xiang Wai hung up the phone happily and threw away the notebook and the pen. She didn''t have to use her brain anymore. So, she went to dreand without

    any worries.

 Chapter 1249 A Candy

    Chapter 1249 A Candy

    The next morning, Xiang Wai went to look for her dad first. Fortunately for her, Xiang Hulin was at home. So, she didn''t have to run around to look for him. Seeing him sitting with Grandpa Xiang, she silently went to sit with him.

    "Dad!" she called out.

    "What is it?" asked Xiang Hulin. He looked amused seeing the look in Xiang Wai''s eyes right now.

    "Who proposed between you and Mom back then?"

    Xiang Hulin raised his brows at her. Even Mu Chenyan looked up from the tablet in her hands. Yue Yue also looked over wondering why and where did this question evene from?

    Xiang Hulin didn''t know why she was asking but he still answered to satisfy her curiosity, "Your mother proposed."

    Xiang Wai was surprised but not all that surprised since she already heard it from Song Xin''ai and mentally came to terms with it. After all, she still believed in Song Xin''ai''s words. But that didn''t stop her from asking, "Didn''t you chase her?"

    "He did," came Mu Chenyan''s voice. "But maybe Sister Xin''ai got tired of waiting. So, she took the lead."

    "It''s definitely not because she got tired of waiting," argued Xiang Hulin.

    Mu Chenyan shrugged, "If you say say, Ge."

    "Don''t sound so perfunctory. At least try to sound like you actually mean it."

    Mu Chenyan grinned and focused back on the tablet in her hands.

    "How did she propose?" asked Xiang Wai even more curiously.

    When she asked this question, even Yue Yue moved closer and looked at Xiang Hulin with gossipy eyes waiting for some answers. Xiang Hulin found their looks quite funny.

    "That''s a very good question," said Grandpa Xiang who had been silently reading a newspaper. "Why don''t you tell them?"

    Xiang Hulin looked at his father and then at his daughter and Yue Yue.

    "Well, you must know that mobile phones weren''t a huge thing back then. Especially, texting. People usually called if they wanted to talk to each other."

    "I know, I know. Youe from ancient times. What else?"

    Xiang Hulin tapped her forehead, "It wasn''t ancient times. And why are you even curious about this? You never even wanted to know anything about my and your mother''s rtionship before. Why suddenly this curiosity?"

    "For research purposes," she answered very seriously.

    ''That''s an answer I''d expect most from Raelle,'' said Yue Yue.

    "I sound like her, right?" asked Xiang Wai happily.

    Yue Yue nodded without any hesitation.

    "We are sisters anyway," said Xiang Wai. "There is nothing wrong with me sounding like her."

    Mu Chenyan shook her head but didn''t raise her head or interrupt them.

    "Papa, stop distracting me. Tell me what she did to propose to you?"

    Xiang Hulin was momentarily lost in memories as she told her, "She gave me a journal."

    Xiang Wai''s face fell, "That''s it? What''s romantic about that? How can you even agree when she gave you a journal?"

    "The journal recorded the memories they shared," said Mu Chenyan. "The journal was actually a lot more romantic at that time than you think. In that journal, she kept every word that my Ge wrote to her and even the wildflowers he plucked for her. It had their pictures together. It recorded everything from the moment they first met to the day she proposed to Ge."

    Xiang Wai went silent for a while and let that sink in because she couldn''t believe that Song Xin''ai could do something like this. Yes, she was a very thorough and detailed person. But this...

    "Did she put your love letters in that journal too?" asked Xiang Wai jokingly.

    "Do I look like someone who can love letters, my dear daughter?" asked Xiang Hulin.

    Xiang Wai bit her lips and shook her head, "Sorry, Papa! But I really can''t picture you writing a love letter. And I can''t picture Mom writing one even more. What would it even sound like if she wrote a love letter? Maybe I should ask Raelle to try writing a love letter. It''de out very close to what Mom could have done."

    "Don''t drag my Elle into this," said Mu Chenyan. "Anyway, she might not be good with emotions but she is very good with words. So, she might end up doing a better job at writing a love letter than you. She had never lost when it came to eloquence."

    "That''s true," agreed Xiang Wai. "Then what were your words that she kept in that journal?"

    "Do you know what was the very first thing I gave your mother?" asked Xiang Hulin.

    "I don''t know."

    "It was a candy," replied Xiang Hulin.

    Xiang Wai gave him a look. A very judgemental look.

    "Don''t look at me like that. You''d be surprised at how much your mother likes candies."

    "What? Mom likes candies? I have never seen her eating any."

    Xiang Hulin smiled sadly at that, "Just because you haven''t seen it doesn''t mean she doesn''t like it."

    "How is that possible? I grew up with her. Even if I barely got to see her, I still know something, no?" Xiang Wai stubbornly insisted on her point and again got off the track. It was really difficult to have a conversation with such a person whose focus kept going off track all the time. But no one in the room was impatient with her at all.

    Yue Yue held her sleeve to stop her from questioning and stared into her eyes as she mouthed, ''You can''t know your mother better than your father. Don''t forget she was the woman he once fell in love with. How could youpete with that?''

    Xiang Wai stopped making trouble instantly. Right, just because she hadn''t seen it didn''t mean her parents had never been in love with each other. Even if she knew nothing about their love story, it was a fact that they once really loved each other. So much so that even after everything, to this day, they don''t hate each other like bitter exes. Both of them would only have the best words to say about the other person.

 Chapter 1250 Came To Mind

    Chapter 1250 Came To Mind

    "Then why did you give her the candy?" asked Xiang Wai getting back on the main point again.

    "Because my sister said when someone looks sad, you should offer them candy to make them happy. Sweetness solves everything," told Xiang Hulin.

    Mu Chenyan scratched her ear and to salvage her image, she chimed in, "Those are the words taught to me by my godmother. I just am a firm believer of that."

    Xiang Hulinughed when he heard that and went on, "Anyway, the first time we met, she looked very sad and very lonely. So, in a moment ofpassion, I offered a candy. I didn''t think she would save the wrapper for so long. She didn''t just keep the wrapper, she even wrote down what she felt at that time receiving that candy from me. After that, since we both had no time for calls and neither of us could write letters, we shared notes."

    "Huh?"

    "Yeah. We used to share notes. Sneaking around tomunicate. She saved all those and put them in her journal along with her personal thoughts. Anyway, as your aunt said, that journal was a lot more romantic than you think." Xiang Hulin smiled to himself, "On the very end, there was even the same candy that I first gave her and the words under them were, ''Will you marry me?'' I couldn''t say no."

    Xiang Wai didn''t know if that journal was romantic or not, but it was seriously memorable. It recorded the journey of their feelings together. How could it not be memorable? It must have meant a lot to both of them. She didn''t know what were the notes they shared or what was written in that journal but by just seeing Xiang Hulin''s expressions she could tell it was something he still hadn''t forgotten.

    For the first time, she understood why her brother always said that their parents shared a beautiful love but it was stillplicated for them to hold on to that rtionship.

    "Then did it bring you to tears?" asked Xiang Wai jokingly.

    "Why do you look so excited about seeing your father''s joke?" asked Xiang Hulin.

    "Just tell me."

    "How can Ge cry in front of people? Wouldn''t that challenge his masculinity? A man can shed blood but not tears," said Mu Chenyan.

    "You have nothing good to say?" asked Xiang Hulin. "I thought you were on my side."

    "Aren''t I exining it for you, Ge?" she responded. "Anyway, don''t worry, Wai. Your father didn''t shed tears there."

    "How can you hold back?"

    "He had to. To keep his image."

    Xiang Hulin stood up to leave, "I don''t wanna talk to you guys anymore. I''m leaving. I have somewhere to be."

    "Ge, don''t cry in your car."

    "Chenchen!"

    Mu Chenyan stuck out her tongue at him teasingly.

    "No way! Dad cried in his car back then?" asked Xiang Wai when Xiang Hulin left. Anyway, she could find out these secrets from her aunt who knew everything.

    "Yeah."

    "How do you know, Chenyan?" asked Grandpa Xiang.

    "I was hiding in the back seat of his car. He didn''t know. So, I ended up hearing him shed some tears. I definitely can''t forget that time."

    "It seems Mom is still trustworthy. I can put my faith in her for this proposal," decided Xiang Wai.

    ''Are you proposing to Yanjun?'' asked Yue Yue in excitement.

    Xiang Wai covered her mouth and stared at Yue Yue, "Aunt Yue, you can''t tell him that. It''s a secret between us. You can''t let him know at all."

    Seeing Xiang Wai following Yue Yue around as she kept telling her to promise not to tell Zhai Yanjun, Mu Chenyan looked a bit dazed for a moment.

    "Why? You wanna propose too?" asked Grandpa Xiang which snapped Mu Chenyan out of her daydream.

    She shook her head, "No way."

    "Then what are you thinking about? If I have to guess, the person that came to your mind just now was definitely Zhao. Right?"

    "Right," Mu Chenyan calmly agreed instead of hiding it from him. "I was just wondering that, this proposal trend should not get to Zhao. What would I do if he proposed following everyone?"

    Grandpa Xiang smiled at her, "You, Chenyan, are just worried that in the spur of the moment, you might end up agreeing. After all, he knows what to do to get the right reaction out of you. He knows how to touch your heart. I can even say, he is the person who can truly control you emotionally. So, you''re scared." He took a pause and said, "But I''ll say this again, it''s not scary at all. Stop scaring yourself."

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips and said, "I won''t argue with you on this. I can''t argue or refute anyway. It is true that I be something else around him."

    "No, you don''t be someone else. You just be the real you. The you who isn''t always trying to be strong or who is ready to fight a battle all the time. With him, you let yourself take the backstage because you''re certain that he''d be holding the ground for you."

    "Well, all that is true too. That''s why I think it''s easier for me to lose myself if he asks me to marry him. It''s not a bad thing per se. It''s just, that I never thought about marriage before. And not one with Xia Zhao for sure. And now, after just recently confirming my rtionship with him, I feel like there isn''t anything wrong with marrying him. This idea is scary. It''s reminding me that I changed too fast. It''s also reminding me that I swept into the whirlpool of his intense feelings with no way out."

    "Do you also feel like you lost?" asked Grandpa Xiang. This was a very serious question when it came to Mu Chenyan.

    She thought about it before saying, "No. I''m still the winner. Because he might be able to control my emotions but his control is also in my hand. He can''t do anything if I don''t allow it."

    "Oh, our Chenyan is growing up well! I''m proud of you!"

    Mu Chenyan looked a little embarrassed at being told this at this age. But she happily took thepliment.

 Chapter 1251 Shooting

    Chapter 1251 Shooting

    As soon as Raelle came out of the conference room, her phone rang. She looked at it to see that Mu Chenyan had sent her a reminder; Meeting the photographer at 7. Be there on time. Don''t forget!

    Raelle''s steps paused because this really skipped her mind. And it seemed Mu Chenyan knew better than she wouldn''t keep this in mind, so she even went out of her way to send a reminder message too.

    Raelle looked at the time and seeing that she really couldn''t squirm her way out of this meeting, she decided to not waste time dawdling and get done with it as soon as possible.

    "I have another meeting, right?" asked Raelle.

    "Yes, you have a meeting with the internal audit team," informed Cloe.

    "You can manage that on your own I believe?"

    Cloe thought about what they were gonna discuss in the meeting and believed it really wasn''t that important for Raelle to be there so she agreed, "Yes. I can. You have somewhere to be?"

    "I have to meet the photographer," told Raelle.

    "Oh..." This ''oh'' had a very interesting meaning behind it and Raelle could tell that too but she didn''t point it out at all.

    "Email me the meeting minuteste," said Raelle before she walked away.

    Cloe was left standing there looking at her back and tsked to herself, "You''re truly having it rough, Chief. Who knew love would make you go through so many troubles and you''d still be willing? Sigh. It''s indeed, as they say, love makes everything possible."

    Raelle didn''t know what was going through Cloe''s mind and she wasn''t interested either right now. She got in the car when she received Shui Xian''s message that he was also on his way and would meet her at the location. She sent an okay and leaned back on the seat.

    After a moment of contemting, she pulled out her phone again and sent a message to Hyson.

    Raelle: "You there?"

    Hyson didn''t respond at all. Raelle was wondering if he was busy.

    Raelle: "Text me when you''re free."

    This time, the response came instantly.

    Hyson: "What''s the safe word?"

    Raelle: "What?"

    Hyson: "Our safe word."

    Raelle to get this redundant information out of the depths of her brain after putting in some effort. She had no clue why he was even asking that right now. But habitually, she was still going along with him and responded back.

    Raelle: "Ghost!"

    Hyson: "YES! YES! That''s the one! You really are my best friend."

    Raelle tapped her knee for a moment.

    Hyson: "Why aren''t you saying anything now?"

    Hyson: "Are you wondering why I asked that question? Isn''t it obvious that I couldn''t believe you were the one texting me first? I needed to confirm that it''s really you and not someone who picked up your phone or something."

    Looking at his exnation, Raelle really had no words for him.

    Raelle: "What goes in that brain of yours?"

    Hyson: "A lot. Like A LOT!"

    Raelle: "I have no doubt about that."

    Hyson was smiling to himself when he read her response. He was the person who was most happy about Raelle being willing to text. It was always voice messages that she used to send him which made it hard for him tomunicate with her in front of people. But now, she could actually text too. And she even took the initiative to look for him.

    Aww! His best friend had grown up so much!

    Hyson: "I am so proud of you."

    Raelle: "I don''t know what went through your brain within this minute for you to say that. But thank you. I''ll try to make you more proud."

    Hysonughed at this one.

    Hyson: "So, why are you looking for me?"

    Raelle: "To pass the time."

    Hyson pursed his lips.

    Hyson: "Seriously?"

    Raelle: "Very serious."

    Hyson: "Okay. So, should I tell you a joke?"

    Raelle: "Is it gonna be funny?"

    Hyson: "That''s up to you."

    Raelle: "Fine. Since I have nothing better to do right now. I''ll go along with you. Shoot!"

    Hyson: "Why did the photographer go to jail?"

    Raelle raised her brows at his question. It was such a bizarre coincidence that she was on her way to meet a photographer right now.

    Seeing that she didn''t respond, Hyson rolled his eyes.

    Hyson: "You''re supposed to ask why."

    Raelle: "Ok. Why?"

    Hyson: "Because he got caught shooting someone! HAHAHAHAHA!"

    Hyson: "Laugh. Raelle Xiang! You betterugh right now!"

    Raelle: "Ha! Ha! Ha!"

    Hyson: "Argh! I so want to throw something at you for this stupid and dryestugh. Tsk. At least give me a round of apuse. I made a good effort here for your sake."

    Hyson: "Are you apuding?"

    Raelle: "You can''t see anyway."

    Hyson: "If you say it, I''d believe it without seeing it."

    Raelle: "By the way, I''m on my way to meet the photographer for my pre-wedding photos."

    Hyson: "There you go changing the topic just so you don''t have to apud or lie."

    Hyson: "Forget it. What can I expect from you?"

    Hyson: "But I understand finally why you''re willing to contact me first. I guess this trouble isn''t easy to digest, eh?"

    Raelle: "Mr. Know-it-all."

    Hyson: "If you can''t make a decision, leave it to Xian Ge. Anyway, he won''t push you too hard. He knows what you are. So, all you have to do is just sit down with him. You know, it won''t look good if the groom has this meeting alone."

    Raelle: "You''re bing very considerate."

    Hyson: "I was always considerate."

    Raelle didn''t refute his words at all. He was indeed a considerate person. Why else would she look for him when she couldn''t think about who to talk to? Actually, she didn''t feel like talking to anything because she had nothing to say. However, she still reached out to Hyson because she knew even if she had nothing to say, she''d be able to talk to him for hours.

 Chapter 1252 [Bonus chapter] Look At This

    Chapter 1252 [Bonus chapter] Look At This

    Actually, Hyson understood her thoughts very well and that''s why he was willing to tell her a joke. If she really had something serious to talk to him about, she''d straight up call him and would never text him like right now.

    Hyson: "Look at this!"

    Hyson: "Look at this!"

    Hyson: "Look at this!"

    Raelle: "What am I even supposed to look at?"

    Hyson: *sent a photo*

    Hyson: "This! Look at this!"

    Raelle looked at the photo. It was just a photo of the sky.

    Raelle: "Am I supposed to be looking at the ne flying in the sky?"

    Hyson: "That''s a bird."

    Raelle: "That''s a ne!"

    Hyson: "Bird!"

    Raelle: "ne!"

    Hyson purposely kept pushing on his idea for a full minute before he gave up.

    Hyson: "Forget it. You are blind. I can''t me you for it. Love makes people blind. I won''t argue with you."

    Raelle: "You really... It was a mistake to text you."

    Hysonughed hard at her response as someone told him that the next scene was ready and they were waiting for him.

    Hyson: "I have to go now. I can''t annoy you anymore."

    Hyson: "By the way, whether you like it or not, you''d still have to agree with me that I''m the best mistake of your life."

    "So full of himself,"mented Raelle as she turned off her phone screen.

    Coincidentally, the car also came to a stop and Raelle looked out. Seeing Shui Xian already waiting there, she got out of the car and he came running to her side.

    Shui Xian looked at her chauffeur and told him, "You can take the car back home. We''ll go back together." Then he turned to Raelle, "Is that okay, mdy?"

    "Why wouldn''t that be okay?" asked Raelle. "We are going home from here. There is no point in taking two cars when we are leaving together."

    "That''s what I thought too," said Shui Xian.

    Shui Xian took her hand naturally as he pulled her inside saying, "It''s almost evening and the sun is still not going easy on anyone. We should get inside."

    "Then why were you waiting outside in the sun?" asked Raelle.

    "I don''t get tanned anyway," said Shui Xian. "And even if I did, it wouldn''t be that bad. I think I''d still look handsome, no?"

    "It''s not about getting tanned. It''s about getting sunburned. People had been getting heatstrokestely. You should be careful," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian smiled at that and nodded in agreement, "I''ll keep that in mind."

    The receptionist looked at them and even without them introducing themselves, she came out from behind the desk to greet them, "Hello, Mr. Shui and Ms. Xiang! Pleasee with me."

    They followed her as she took them to sit in a waiting room.

    "I''ll inform Miss Chi that you''re here. She''ll be right with you."

    Shui Xian gave her a nod and she left them to wait there.

    "Raelle, did Yanyan talk to you about the return gifts for the guests?" asked Shui Xian.

    "Huh?"

    Shui Xian got the hint, "Right. You don''t need to get involved in this." He sighed to himself and said, "Don''t worry, we''ll only have one photoshoot. You don''t have to try on different themes at all. I''ll make it as easy for you as possible. Don''t worry about it at all."

    Raelle gave him a look remembering how Hyson said that Shui Xian wouldn''t let her take on the trouble. She really had to sit here and wait because he was willing to do everything on his own. If it wasn''t for Mu Chenyan, he might really be doing everything on his own.

    "Three."

    "Huh?"

    "Yanyan said we have to at least have three photoshoots," told Raelle.

    Shui Xian rubbed his forehead, "Should I talk to her?"

    Raelle shook her head, "Nah. I''ll do it. I will do it."

    Shui Xian smiled at her as he got on one knee, holding her hand as she sat on the sofa. "You really have to go through a lot for this wedding, no? I feel like I am making you go through way too much. It''s like I''m forcing you to do things you never wanted to it. Even though at the beginning of our marriage, I promised I wouldn''t do it. I am so sorry."

    "Are you touched?"

    "Very."

    "Then treat me better," said Raelle. "That''s the only way you can make it up to me."

    Shui Xian rubbed her hand, "If I won''t treat you better, who else would I treat better?"

    Raelle thought about it and said, "Our future daughter?"

    Shui Xian was startled and stunned by her response.

    "What? You are really gonna treat her better than me?"

    Shui Xian was speechless for a while and then he burst outughing, "We don''t have a daughter yet."

    "But we are having this conversation right now. I havee to realize that I have an obsession. Do you know what that is?"

    "What is it?" he asked.

    "You," she answered. "So, I refuse to allow you to treat even an imaginary person better than me. I am so damn possessive. You gotta deal with it."

    "Yes, I am very happy to," said Shui Xian as he kissed her forehead. "You really catch me off guard every time. I love your possessiveness. I have told you that before too. Don''t think it''s a burden to me. It''s not. It might not be healthy but hey! Who has a perfect rtionship out there?"

    "That''s what I am saying," said Raelle. "I just like giving you reminders so that you don''t forget what kind of a person I am even for a second." She took a pause and added, "And since we are here. You choose the best for everything. I''m going through the trouble so we gotta make the best out of it. When we have gray hair in the future, all we''d have are these photos to look back to."

    Shui Xian''s doting smile didn''t leave his lips even for a minute as he stared at her.

 Chapter 1253 Capture It For Good

    Chapter 1253 Capture It For Good

    Shui Xian never thought that for an imaginary person, his wife would actually be so possessive. Who would have thought that Raelle Xiang was capable of all this? But he had to say he loved every bit of it. She seemed to love reminding him that he was the most important to her.

    Or maybe it was a disguised threat telling him to not even think about cheating on her?

    Well, he''d like to go with the first one since there was no way he''d be cheating on her. That was impossible. "Ahem!"

    Both of them looked towards the door and found a woman standing there with a smile on her face. Shui Xian slowly stood up without any embarrassment at all and greeted her, "You must be Miss Chi Liao?"

    "That''s me," replied the woman as she entered the room and closed the door. "I''m Chi Liao. Nice to meet you, Mr. Shui." She looked towards Raelle with a sparkle in her eyes, "And it''s an honor to finally meet you, Miss Xiang."

    Shui Xian stared at her hand extended towards Raelle and held it to shake saying, "Sorry, my wife doesn''t like to shake hands."

    His eyes had a dangerous glint that made Chi Liao tsked at his pettiness. "Let''s get to business," said Shui Xian.

    "Shall we, Miss Xiang?" asked Chi Liao.

    Raelle looked at the two of them and said, "I''m out of this. Talk to my husband."

    Chi Liao deted while Shui Xian perked up, "Talk to me. I''m here to talk to you. You don''t have to disturb my wife."

    Chi Liao had to instantly hide her inner fangirl and get back to her professional self. She opened theptop and presented them with the ideas she hade up with. She had spent a lot of time and effort on all this in the past week since she heard that she was going to be the wedding photographer for Shui Xian and Raelle Xiang.

    Oh, how much she wanted to see them in person and capture them together with the lens of her camera. She was so regretful right now that she was carrying her camera earlier and couldn''t capture the moment filled with pink bubbles in the air as she walked in earlier. Sigh. She could keep that in her mind only.

    As Raelle had said, everything was really up to Shui Xian and Chi Liao could see that too by now since Raelle was only leaningzily against Shui Xian while he chose everything and discussed ideas with her. Chi Liao was quite surprised since usually, brides were more into this stuff than the grooms. But she really couldn''t look at these two like any other bride and groom. This was Raelle Xiang and Shui Xian!

    "You don''t have anything to add to this?" she asked Raelle.

    "Nope," replied Raelle. "Xian is better at nning than me. I''m better at executing those ns. So, you are gonna have to discuss everything with him."

    "Oh," responded Chi Liao.

    Shui Xian moved his body to allow her to leanfortably against him as he asked, "Do you want to drink some tea?" The tea and snacks were brought earlier by the receptionist.

    "No," replied Raelle. Chi Liao sighed heavily, "You both really don''t need to do all this nning. With your overflowing feelings and your exceptional looks, you guys would be fine even with random clicks. Even that would seem like a wedding photoshoot."

    "We know," replied Shui Xian proudly. "I didn''t think one day you''d be a narcissist," said Chi Liao. "I guess love gives you some arrogance and if it doesn''t, there must be something wrong," was Shui Xian''s response.

    "You both know each other?" asked Raelle.

    "Kind of," replied Shui Xian. "We met when I was working in the music industry."

    "How?" asked Raelle. "Aren''t you a photographer?"

    "And you think singers don''t need photographers?"

    "I mean aren''t you a wedding photographer?"

    "Originally, I wasn''t," replied Chi Liao. "I just loved taking photos of the beautiful people. And I couldn''t find beautiful people working as a photographer before?"

    "Why not? Isn''t there too many good-looking people in that industry?" asked Raelle.

    "You don''t seem to understand, Miss Xiang," said Chi Liao. "Those people have to always fake a smile even when they are dying inside. Do you think they look beautiful from the lens of my camera? You might not believe it but the camera sees a lot more than eyes. Working with those people, I got tired and my love for photography was fading. It made me actually question why I originally wanted to be a photographer."

    "What changed?" asked Raelle.

    "Ask your husband," said Chi Liao. "I have never really liked his charming and heartthrob image. But that day he really surprised me."

    "What did he say?"

    "He said the most beautiful people in the world are the ones who are in love," said Chi Liao. "The ones who are getting married. They are the ones full of love."

    Raelle looked at Shui Xian and scratched his chin as he said, "I might have been a little too drunk, and seeing her so frustrated, I said a thing or two. How would I know she''d listen?"

    "I never got to say thank you to you, Shui Xian," said Chi Liao. "You might have been a drunk and said things casually but that changed my life. You see, now I''m considered one of the most popr wedding photographers around here."

    "Are you, eh?"

    "Why else would I be selected as your photographer? I don''t think your family is willing to have anything less than the best. So, I believe I''m on the list of the best to be chosen."

    "It isn''t that serious," said Raelle. "Is it?"

    "It is to me," replied Chi Liao. "By the way, my gratitude is one thing but I am still not a fan of you, Shui Xian."

    "You should be careful with what you say," Raelle spoke up. "I don''t like people who don''t like my husband."

    "Wow! You are..." Chi Liao didn''t know what to say. She shook her head, "I still can''t wrap my head around how you managed to make her fall for you of all people?"

    "Because I''m that good," answered Shui Xian andughed at it. "By the way, are you really happy now?"

    "Don''t I look happy? I even gained weight."

    "That''s happiness?" he asked.

    "Did you forget how skinny I was?" she asked. "Right. You''re so skinny that someone asked you to always wear weights on your legs or else the wind would blow you away."

    "Wasn''t that someone you? Who else would make such careless remarks?"

    "Hey! It was my concern. I had always been a considerate person." Shui Xian smiled at her and added, "But it''s good to see you here. I can see you have thought a lot about this photoshoot. Thank you for putting in so much effort."

    "Firstly, I love my job. Second, I have been a fan of your wife since I saw her debut on the red carpet with you months ago. And third, I thought I could repay you for changing my life by making this extra special for you."

    "Then I can be rest assured with you," said Shui Xian. "Make sure to make this photoshoot your personal best. Because my wife wants to keep it with her till we are old and grey."

    Chi Liao smiled at them and agreed, "I''d do my best for you two."

    "Then I''ll give you the contact information of my assistant and he''ll coordinate with you and your team. You don''t have to do anything. He''ll handle all the travel and amodation matters. You just have to do your best at what you''re good at. I''d like to get everything done within this weekend."

    "Are you sure?" asked Chi Liao. "You decided on three themes. And we''ll have to travel to the beach and other ces for the real effect."

    "Yes, it''ll be hectic but we can''t take more time. Let me see if we can spare three days to give you more time. It''s not me. It''s you. You guys still haven''t chosen the dresses for the photoshoot. You''d have to do the fitting and all. It''ll take time, no?"

    "Don''t worry about it," said Raelle. "Someone already handled that all."

    "Alright then," said Chi Liao. "Then I''ll try my best to make it an unforgettable memory for you both."

    "We''re looking forward to it," said Raelle and Shui Xian simultaneously. They shared a look and smiled at each other making Chi Liao''s eyes stuck to them. Tsk. She had never regretted not carrying her camera as much as she did in the past hour she spent with them. She wanted to capture every moment when they touched. When they looked at each other. When they just sat side by side. Every single thing made her want to capture it for good.

 Chapter 1254 Take A Break

    Chapter 1254 Take A Break

    "Why did you call me here?" asked Xia Zhao as he took a seat beside Mu Chenyan.

    Mu Chenyan turned her head towards him and asked, "Why? I can''t call you out to see me. What kind of a girlfriend I am if I don''t even get to call my boyfriend out?"

    Xia Zhao raised his brow at her in surprise and answered, "When did I say you have no right? I''m always at your beck and call. Whether we are dating or not. So, don''t get so irritated over this small matter." He rubbed her head as she added, "I just asked that question because you usually don''t call me unless you have something to do with me."

    "So, you''re saying I''m the bad guy in this rtionship?" she asked.

    "Exactly when did I say that?" he asked in confusion. "Can you stoping up with your own exnations? Don''t find faults with me. Who pissed you off?"

    Mu Chenyan pouted, "I came out with Yue Yue to buy some stuff. And she actually left me alone. Just so she can go and watch a movie with that stupid, Zhai Kuijun. I can''t believe that friends are not as important as lovers."

    Xia Zhao sighed at her, "Do you wanna watch a movie too?"

    "When did I say that?" asked Mu Chenyan. She scowled at him, "You aren''t trying to find your own meanings from my words now, are you?"

    "I''m learning from you," he said without denying it at all.

    Mu Chenyan tsked at him, "By the way, why are you sitting here with me? There is a seat on the other side too."

    "But I want to sit here since it''s closer to you," he replied.

    Mu Chenyan gave him a look, "You''ve changed."

    "You brought this change, you take responsibility."

    "Am I not taking responsibility already?" she asked in return. "I would have kicked you away by now otherwise."

    Xia Zhao smiled at her words, "Well, thank you for your kindness and magnanimity." He took a pause and asked, "Do you really not want to watch a movie? We don''t seem to have done that. Ever."

    "Don''t want to," she replied. "There is a race tomorrow night at Xale Mountain. Do you want to go there?"

    Mu Chenyan perked up, "Is it an official race or some teenagers messing around?"

    "It''s an official one," he answered.

    Mu Chenyan held his hand, "Let''s go. I want to go."

    "It''s tomorrow," reminded Xia Zhao. "I knew you''d be happy about this. Don''t worry, I''ll take you there."

    "Okay," replied Mu Chenyan. "Tell me the time. I''ll get everything done before that."

    "So, it''s a date?" he asked.

    Mu Chenyan stared at him, "Do you have to call it that?"

    "Why not?"

    "Firstly, we are already this old."

    "So what? It''s still our first rtionship. Why can we go on dates?"

    Mu Chenyan didn''t argue about that and said, "I miss the time when you used to not talk much."

    Xia Zhao tapped her nose, "We always miss the things that are lost because we only understand their value once they are no longer around us."

    "We have done everything there is to do," started Mu Chenyan. "That''s why I don''t think we need to call it a date at this point."

    "Does it really matter what we call it?"

    "That''s what I am saying," she said.

    "Yeah. And that''s why I want to call it a date," he replied.

    Mu Chenyan rolled her eyes at him.

    "By the way, there is a lot we haven''t done together. Just take watching a movie in the cinema together," reminded Xia Zhao.

    "The only things we never got to do together are the ones that we don''t like to do," she said. "Okay. Stop this discussion and go and order yourself a drink or something."

    Xia Zhao shook his head at her and went to order himself a drink beforeing to sit with her, "Do you still have things you wanna buy?" "Why?"

    "I''ll apany you. Why else did you call me? To argue with you here or to just look at your beautiful face. I mean I don''t really mind doing that either."

    Mu Chenyan put her hand on her temple to hide her smile and only after suppressing her smile did she say, "Of course, I called you to do some shopping with me. You think you can escape?"

    "If I wanted to escape from you, I wouldn''t be here," he said.

    Xia Zhao got his iced Americano and listened to Mu Chenyan talking animatedly about what she had done and what still needed to be done on her checklist. Of course, his eyes were glued to her face as he took in every single change in her expression while sipping on his drink. Xia Zhao put his hand on her head as he said, "Aiyo, our Yan Zi sure is working hard. Are you tired? Why do you take a break? Do you have to do everything on your own?"

    Mu Chenyan looked into his eyes and knew that he was very sincere when he said those words. It made her smile as she said, "I have to do everything on my own. I don''t know about others but I know you understand the reason very well for it."

    Xia Zhao nodded his head, "I indeed understand. You might have never called Raelle your daughter but in truth, that exactly is who she is to you. But at the same time, you are more than that to her. So, you feel like you have to do everything. You want to experience it. I don''t know what emotions you''re going through but I still understand how important this wedding is to you."

    Mu Chenyan''s smile deepened as she leaned her head on his shoulder and said, "I knew I wouldn''t have to tell you anything. You just know everything."

    "You don''t mind that anymore? That I can see through you?"

 Chapter 1255 [Bonus chapter] Life Will Stop

    Chapter 1255 [Bonus chapter] Life Will Stop

    "Now, you''re my boyfriend. So, I don''t mind being transparent. Saves me the trouble of exining everything."

    Xia Zhaoughed at her response and patted her back as he told her, "Since I''m lending you my shoulder, close your eyes for a moment to rest."

    "What do you mean by lending me your shoulder? It''s mine!" she retorted. She poked his forehead and said, "From here to the tip of your toes, everything is mine."

    Xia Zhao nodded, "Yes. Everything is yours. I''m your yours. I am so d you are willing to im what is yours."

    Mu Chenyan hmphed and leaned against his again as she closed her eyes this time. Xia Zhao slowly ran his fingers through her hair as he kissed the top of her head before resting his cheek against her head. They stayed like that for a while in a peaceful silence but the annoying ringtone broke this silence of Mu Chenyan''s phone. She took the phone with her eyes closed, "What?" Something was said from the other side before she replied, "Since you have settled them at their amodations. Just rx and let them rest for a day or two."

    She hung up the call and yawned before stretching a little.

    "I really fell asleep in this busy cafe?" she muttered in a small voice. Then her eyes settled on Xia Zhao and she put all the me on his head without any guilt. Anyway, he won''t mind the me if it''sing from her.

    He could practically read her mind and still didn''t say anything. He fixed her hair as he asked, "Was it a peaceful nap?"

    "It was good," she responded. "This call ruined it."

    "What was it about?"

    "The patissier that I invited is here," she told him. "They traveled from different countries so I just let them rest for a couple of days before getting them to work."

    Xia Zhao nodded his head as he saw her rubbing her forehead. "Is something bothering you?"

    "I haven''t chosen a dress for the wedding," she told him. "Even Yue Yue prepared her dress but mine is still not selected." She narrowed her eyes at him, "How about you prepare it for me?"

    "Me?"

    "Yes, as my boyfriend you need to share some of my burdens. It''s the least you can do, no?"

    Xia Zhao looked at her unreasonable look and agreed, "Okay. I''ll arrange it for you."

    "It should be great," said Mu Chenyan. "But it can''t outshine the bride either. Don''t forget, I''m the maid of honor. The color for bridesmaid is peach."

    "I remember that all," he told her. "You don''t need to repeat it all to me."

    "I''m just making sure you know so thatter you won''t have any excuse for making a mistake."

    "Are you hoping that I make a mistake?"

    "Maybe."

    Xia Zhao got up and held out his hand to her, "Let''s go now and get done with your shopping. Later, I''ll take you to eat something good."

    "What? What''s good?"

    "You''ll know when we get there," he replied.

    "Can''t you just tell me? Why always say I''ll find out? Of course, I''ll find out eventually but would you lose a piece of meat if you told me yourself?" She suddenly stopped when she noticed someone staring at them and looked at a young couple and frowned, "What are you looking at? I am talking to my boyfriend."

    The young couple ran away immediately.

    "Don''t scare people," said Xia Zhao, and almost biting his tongue instantly because he knew what was toe.

    "Did you just say that I look scary?" asked Mu Chenyan. "How dare you? How am I scary? Is that something you should say to your girlfriend?"

    Xia Zhao took a deep breath, "I said something wrong. I am sorry. I won''t do it again."

    Mu Chenyan hmphed at him and walked off while he followed her around, repeating his apology in 360 new ways. She was getting tired of listening but he wasn''t tired of speaking at all. "Okay. Stop already. Everyone is looking at us," said Mu Chenyan.

    "So, I''m forgiven?"

    "It''s not like youmitted a crime or something," she said. "Don''t exaggerate as if seeing me mad will stop your life."

    "What if it did?" he asked.

    "Silence! You''re not allowed to speak until I tell you to, okay?"

    "Okay."

    And then he followed her to just give his opinion when she asked or hold the shopping bags like a good boyfriend. There was no impatience or annoyance on his face at all. If anything, he seemed to be really enjoying following her around like this. "Brother Zhao!"

    Xia Zhao heard someone calling him but didn''t pay attention at all. It was Mu Chenyan who stopped and looked at the person who called him. When she saw the woman in front of them, she frowned.

    Seeing her frown, Xia Zhao finally looked at the person who made Mu Chenyan frown.

    "It''s really you. I thought I was mistaken," said the woman who was none other than, An Ran whom his mother had been trying to get him to date for a very long time now. "What are you doing here? Why didn''t youe to the dinner the other night? Auntie was so upset that you didn''te." Xia Zhao didn''t seem to be paying attention to her since all his attention was on Mu Chenyan as always. Seeing that sweet smile on her lips, he knew he was in trouble without even doing anything. And no, he did not think Mu Chenyan was being unreasonable right now. Seeing him not looking at her, An Ran finally paid attention to Mu Chenyan who was standing beside him, and pretended like she just saw her, "Oh, I didn''t see you there. Are you brother Zhao''s friend? Hello, I''m An Ran. I''m brother Zhao''s fiancee!"

    Mu Chenyan clenched her fist and then cursed under her breath before really raising her hand at her but before the p couldnd on An Ran''s face, Xia Zhao held her hand.

 Chapter 1256 Following Orders

    Chapter 1256 Following Orders

    Mu Chenyan stared at Xia Zhao, wide-eyed. Then she grew furious, "You better let go."

    Xia Zhao sighed mentally and said patiently, "Violence is not the answer."

    "What do you mean? Violence is my answer!" retorted Mu Chenyan angrily. "Uncle told you to not raise your hand at anyone without a reason," reminded Xia Zhao.

    "There is a big reason to raise my hand right now," said Mu Chenyan righteously. "I need to knock some sense into this brainless little delusional!"

    An Ran purposely hid behind Xia Zhao and looked aggrieved as she said, "Brother Zhao, your friend hasn''t learned any manners in all these years."

    Mu Chenyanughed at that, "I didn''t learn manners and you didn''t grow a brain in all these years!"

    As An Ran was about to hold Xia Zhao''s shirt from behind to show how scared she was of Mu Chenyan, thetter pulled Xia Zhao and pushed him behind her. She stared at An Ran with rage.

    "How dare you try to touch what''s mine? Did I give you the permission?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Who the fuck is your fiance here? Huh? How dare you call him yours? Even I didn''t call him mine for years, who the little fuck are you to call him yours? Who gave you the right? His absent and controlling mother? No one told you that he''d only hate you more if you kept on buttering his mother?! I need to p that face of yours that is still as disgusting as ever. Are you still a teenager? ying this white lotus in front of me, does it look like it''ll work?"

    An Ran''s tears fell as she continued to look at Xia Zhao as if hoping for him to see how unreasonable Mu Chenyan was and how much she bullied her. But she was really betting on the wrong. Xia Zhao had always been selectively blind when it came to Mu Chenyan. Whether when she wasn''t his girlfriend or now that he had the official title of her boyfriend.

    But he still hugged Mu Chenyan''s waist from behind to stop her from really going to attack An Ran. Because he could tell Mu Chenyan was really in for a fight. His girlfriend just had a little obsession with violence and it didn''t change with age either. No matter how much he wanted to solve everything with words, she wouldn''t listen at all. Even her words were no less of an attack.

    "Who are you giving that look? Keep your dirty eyes from my boyfriend and don''t you dare look at him. I''ve always wanted to gauge your eyes out whenever you looked at him. Whether it was years ago or now. Try me one more time and let''s see if I really gauge your eyes out or not this time around. And I''d be the right party after all I''m the girlfriend here. Not a fake fiancee like you who got married twice and couldn''t even save her rtionship so came back to look for the old love. Does Zhao look like a trash collector to you?"

    An Ran held in her tears and red at Mu Chenyan, "You''re going too far now!"

    "I''m not the one who schemed against him for years. Do you want me to remind you what have you done over the years? Do you really think I won''t know just because I wasn''t around?"

    "No matter what, Auntie will never like you," said An Ran.

    "Who wants Lin Qiao''s eptance? A mother-inw like her can stay where she is. If I was scared of her, I''d have stopped seeing Zhao when she asked me to do so."

    "You don''t deserve him too," said An Ran. "Who would want to take you out? Have you looked at yourself? You look like a shrew!"

    "Well, this shrew is about to dislocate some of your bones," said Mu Chenyan and rushed over. Even with Xia Zhao holding her back, it was impossible to stop her. Especially because Xia Zhao couldn''t bring himself to be too hard on her. Someone came to stop her and even Mu Chenyan was taken aback seeing this person, "Yanyan, let''s take a step back."

    "What are you doing here?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Shui Xianughed awkwardly. He was also wondering why he had toe here at this time and run into this scene. On the other hand, Xia Zhao''s brother also appeared and pulled An Ran back, "You should take the hint and not act like a fool all the time. Leave!"

    Shui Xian also pulled Mu Chenyan away and said, "Calm down." He looked at his assistant and said, "Bring a drink." Then he turned to Mu Chenyan and smiled, "I have never seen you so riled up before."

    "Why did you pull me? I have been wanting to kick her ass for years."

    "What stopped you back then?"

    "I had no right to smack her since I didn''t think Xia Zhao was my exclusive property. And also because if I really hid her, my godmother would definitely not let me be."

    "Then think about your godmother. She''d still not want you to hit her. For no other reason but that she didn''t do anything to deserve a beating."

    "She had been going around calling herself Zhao''s fiancee for years. Isn''t that wrong?"

    "Not enough for a beating, I guess."

    "You''re a softie!" "And you''re violent," retorted Shui Xian. His assistant came back with a drink and Shui Xian offered it to Mu Chenyan, "Drink this. You need to cool down. The heat is getting to you."

    "Don''t talk to me. I''m mad."

    "At me?"

    "Yes!"

    "Sorry for pulling you back. But I was just following orders."

    Mu Chenyan narrowed her eyes at him, "You told Elle about this?"

    "I wasn''t supposed to?"

    "You really can''t keep a secret?"

    "I did not think this was a secret. I wasn''t the only one who saw you

    arguing."

    "But you are the only one who knows me here!"

 Chapter 1257 [Bonus chapter] It Came From You

    Chapter 1257 [Bonus chapter] It Came From You

    Shui Xian smiled at her innocently which made Mu Chenyan tsked at him and snatch the drink from him to gulp it down. She opened the cap and chugged down the drink along with the ice cubes which crushed with her teeth noisily.

    Shui Xian almost felt like she was chewing down on his bones. Scary! So scary!

    After taking a deep breath, she looked at him calmly, "Aren''t you scared of me? Still came to stop me when I looked so angry?"

    Shui Xian still smiled at her and didn''t lie, "I''m of course scared. But so what? My fear won''t stop me from following my wife''s orders. She told me to not let you get into any violence so I just had to do that."

    "I could have punched you."

    "It''s okay. I''d have taken it."

    Mu Chenyan shook her head at him.

    "I just learned where Raelle got her super possessiveness from," said Shui Xian. "I never knew it came from you. But earlier, I realized that you''re the one who taught her that possessiveness."

    "I only told her to never let anyone take what''s hers."

    "Thank you for that, I guess."

    Mu Chenyan gave him a look, "You don''t think it''s too much to handle?"

    "What?"

    "Her possessiveness?"

    "No, I don''t mind," he replied. "It''s not every day you''d see Raelle Xiang getting possessive about something. How can mind when it''s a clear indication that I''m very special to her? In fact, the very first time she told someone not to touch me just because she doesn''t like people touching what belongs to her, I felt a very strange feeling in my heart. Maybe because it never happened before. Yes, her possessiveness can be too much for others. But to me, it''s just fine."

    Mu Chenyan gave him a look, "My godmother always told me to hide my possessiveness because it could scare some people away. Not hide it. She meant to not overdo it. But I am either all in or nothing at all. Since I couldn''t find a bnce, I always kept it in."

    "Then what made you let it show today?"

    "I couldn''t help it," said Mu Chenyan. "I''m telling you, that woman had always gotten on my nerves. She''d always run around him calling him Brother Zhao. He kept treating her as a little sister and I warned him to be careful. But even if he was careful, it didn''t stop this delusional woman. I didn''t think she was so annoying that she was still after him. Argh! Ruined my mood. Today doesn''t seem to be my day."

    "Every day is yours," said Shui Xian. "Don''t think so much about this." He turned around and found Xia Zhao standing behind there, he didn''t even know for how long he stood there. He gave him a nod and said, "Then I''ll leave now. I have other things to do too. Yanyan, you should be prepared. Because Raelle will definitelye to see you tonight after work."

    Mu Chenyan waved him off, "And whose fault is that?"

    Shui Xian grinned and walked away cheekily.

    Xia Zhao stood beside Mu Chenyan and looked at her in silence.

    "What?" she asked. "Did I do something wrong?"

    "No. I''m the one wrong. Sorry, you had to go through this," he said surprising her. "She is after me and it always annoys you. So, I''m the one at fault here. I''m also sorry for holding you back when you wanted to p her. But I really couldn''t let you use violence."

    Mu Chenyan closed her eyes and sighed heavily. "Where did you go?"

    "To ask Hao to take An Ran back home. I don''t even know why he was with her."

    "You really have no interest in your brother''s life, eh?"

    "I had minimum interests in life, don''t you know that?"

    "Right. Why else would you live such a minimalistic life, right?"

    "Right," he nodded in agreement.

    "But he is still your brother. I think he might hate me. Because his brother has more interest in me than him."

    Xia Zhao smiled at that, "He doesn''t dare to hate you. If anything, he''d trying to find ways to get close to you after this."

    "Why?"

    "Just so he can get close to me through you."

    "Do I look that easy?"

    "He doesn''t know how difficult you are." He was silent for a moment before asking, "Did my mother ask you to not see me?"

    Mu Chenyan paused and looked into his eyes, "She did."

    "When?"

    "When I was in Junior High School. She thought we were dating and she had a lot to say about that."

    "You didn''t say anything to her in response?"

    "Why do you think she hates me so much? I made sure her blood boils whenever she hears my name."

    Xia Zhaoughed at that and patted her head, "You did a good job."

    Mu Chenyan rolled her eyes at him, "Should you be saying that as her son?"

    "If she wants to be respected as a mother, she should act like a mother. Not like my dictator. That won''t earn her any respect from me."

    "You really hold grudges."

    "I think I learned it from you."

    "Stop putting everything on my head."

    "Got it, Ma''am!" He held out his hand towards her, "Should we finish your shopping?"

    "I don''t want to anymore."

    "Aren''t you letting the viin by doing this? If you don''t finish it today, it''ll fall on tomorrow which will make your already short time, shorter. How can you squeeze out the time for yourself then, eh? We should get the things done today. Then I have to take you for the meal I promised."

    "That meal better be good," said Mu Chenyan. "Or I''ll be really mad. I am very easy to set off like fireworks today."

    "I can tell," he said. "I''ll make sure that the meal satisfies you and makes you happy. For now,e, I''ll buy you some cake to make you happy."

    "I want tiramisu."

    "I know."

 Chapter 1258 Long Over It

    Chapter 1258 Long Over It

    "What did you make?" asked Xiang Wai as she jumped on the couch almost spilling Xiang Weimin''s drink.

    "Can you stop jumping around like a little girl?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "Can''t do," replied Xiang Wai as she sat cross-legged, putting all her weight on her elder brother.

    "Then please give me a warning before doing this. You could have dropped the hot coffee on yourself," said Xiang Weimin seriously.

    "I''ll try to keep that in mind," Xiang Wai sounded extremely perfunctory and Xiang Weimin was really helpless about her attitude. "By the way, why did you make hot coffee in this hot weather?"

    "Felt like drinking it," answered Xiang Weimin.

    "Then why did you make it yourself?"

    "You know that I like to drink hand-brewed coffee but only made by myself."

    "You have weird quirks," said Xiang Wai.

    "Is there something new about that?"

    "Nope."

    Xiang Weimin sipped on his coffee with something on his mind. Xiang Wai held her phone and kept watching something. Hearing the sound of someone munching on something, Xiang Weimin''s peace was destroyed and he had to ask, "Wai, what the hell are you watching?"

    "This!" she replied as she showed him the screen where all he saw was a huge spread on the table. "This is called Mukbang."

    "Is it fun? Watching others eat?"

    "Isn''t it?" she asked in response.

    "I don''t see the fun in it," he replied. "Ge, you need to change. Or your son will soon say that you''re boring."

    "The only person who calls me boring is you," said Xiang Weimin. "My son isn''t that insensible."

    "Tsk. I''m no longer your favorite person. Boohoo!"

    Xiang Weimin looked at her dramatic look and scrunched up his face. "Come, I''ll y a game with you. Stop watching these videos."

    Xiang Wai had to think about it for a while seriously before she agreed, "What game?"

    "Let''s y the League?" he asked.

    "Good idea but do you know how to y?"

    "You''re asking as if you''re very good at ying games?"

    "Better than you Ge," she replied. "Where is your phone? Download the game. Let''s y."

    "Okay," agreed Xiang Weimin. As long as he could stop her from watching those eating shows that got on his nerves. He really couldn''t enjoy the sound of people eating. But then again, he never understood most of Xiang Wai''s interests. But that didn''t stop him from ying along with her for all his life. "I heard you went to see Mom."

    "Yeah."

    "Why?"

    "Can''t I go to see her?"

    "It''s weird. You never take the initiative to look for her," reminded Xiang Weimin.

    "A lot has changed in me recently, Ge. Haven''t you noticed?"

    "I have."

    "Then do you like this change?"

    "As long as you don''t lose yourself in this change, I''m fine with whatever you be."

    Xiang Wai smiled at him and snatched his phone to download the game and set up an ount for him thoughtfully too. She knew why he suggested ying games with her even though he never really had a real interest in video games. "Are you nning a proposal?"

    "The more I wanted it to be a secret, the more I feel like people know about this."

    "Wai, to be honest, you have never been good with secrets. I won''t be surprised if even Yanjun knew by now what you''re up to."

    "NO!" eximed Xiang Wai unhappily. "He can''t know that. It''s a surprise for him. I have to catch him off guard."

    Xiang Weimin patted her head, "Silly."

    "Ge, it''s not nice to insult your sister like this."

    "That wasn''t an insult," he replied. "On another note, did you submit your application to Raelle?"

    Xiang Wai slumped down, "I did. She hasn''t responded yet."

    "What did you write?" asked Xiang Weimin curiously.

    "It''s private," said Xiang Wai not wanting to tell him what kind of absurd application she had written. "It''s done," she passed his phone back to him. "Let''s y."

    Soon, there was only the game sounds echoing in the room where they sat. As Xiang Wai was about to make the final shot, her phone rang ruining the game. She looked at the caller ID and sighed before picking up to say, "Stop calling. Don''t ruin my game."

    "Who is it?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "Captain Teng from my team," answered Xiang Wai.

    "Why is she looking for you?"

    "Something about a farewell party or something."

    "Isn''t that good?"

    "Why? I don''t see the point. I don''t think we are that close."

    "You all went through life-threatening missions together. And you''re still not close? If you weren''t close, why would you be willing to stand with your back towards those people? Aren''t you afraid of them backstabbing you?"

    "I had trust in my team."

    "Exactly my point," he said. "Trust is what bonded you all together. So, saying that you aren''t that close can be hurtful. Why don''t you just tell them honestly."

    "What?"

    "That Major Xiang Wai is a softie who doesn''t like emotional things like farewell parties since they kind of mark the end of something and you never like endings."

    Xiang Wai paused the game to stare at her brother, "Ge!"

    "What? Am I wrong? You don''t even watch the ending of shows just because you don''t want to go through the strange emotions of parting."

    Xiang Wai rubbed her forehead, "It''s a very dangerous thing to have a brother who can see through you."

    "You''re very fortunate that I''m your brother."

    "That''s true," she agreed to that very readily making even Xiang Weimin a bit surprised. "Are we the only people at home today?"

    "Yeah."

    "Even Grandfather is not home?"

    "Nope," he replied.

    "Where did he go?"

    "Don''t know. Uncle Shing took him out somewhere."

    "Oh." Xiang Wai focused on the game again but still couldn''t help talking, "Ge, how is your son? I haven''t seen him in a while."

    "You literally met him the day before yesterday," he reminded.

    "I did? Why don''t I remember that?"

    "Your memory is like a fish. How is it my fault?"

    "Ge! You don''t let go of any chance to insult your own sister, eh?"

    "At least, I don''t allow others to insult you."

    "Why not? You don''t say anything to Raelle or even Yue Fai."

    "They are not just in the category of ''others''."

    Xiang Wai shook her head at him. "How is your birthday preparation for Justin?"

    "I''m just looking for a cake."

    "Everything is else is done?"

    "Yeah. Mostly."

    Xiang Wai nodded, "You''re very dedicated to it. Even though you have never done anything like organizing a birthday or something."

    "It''s important to me."

    "Sure it is. What cake do you have in mind?"

    "He likes dinosaurs so something along that line."

    "Ge, what do I like?"

    "There are a lot of things you like. For instance, you love fireworks, rain, sweet things, wildflowers and you have an obsession with maple trees. There are plenty of other things too."

    "Okay. You do know me well," she sighed. "Then why did I never see you giving me a birthday cake inspired by my likes?"

    "Who is a fan of birthdays in our family?"

    Xiang Wai went silent before saying, "No one."

    "Exactly," answered Xiang Weimin.

    Xiang Wai sighed at that. How could she forget that there was no one who liked birthdays in this house? At least, they didn''t like celebrating that day or making it a huge deal. She used to think she had a weird family but now that she had met all her family, she could only say they were weirder for sure but also very special in their own ways.

    "Ge, do you know why I''m obsessed with maple trees?" asked Xiang Wai curiously. She really wanted to see if he knew since he seemed to know everything about her. "Because you and Yanjun went on your first date in the maple forest in the middle of the autumn."

    Xiang Wai stared at him in shock which messed up the game and they lost. Xiang Weimin put down the phone and looked at her.

    "What? Is it surprising that I know that?"

    "You don''t think there is anything weird about you knowing so much about my personal life?"

    "Who told you to be a talker when you''re drunk? Don''t forget, you always came to me after getting drunk. How would I not know all this? First, you love talking. Second, I have a good memory. So, I don''t see a reason why I shouldn''t know all this."

    "Then do you know why we went to the maple forest for our first date?"

    "Because when we were younger, that''s where you first met Zhai Yanjun. Our families were on a pic there together."

    "Damn! You know too much."

    Xiang Weimin chuckled, "Then learn to stay quiet when you''re drunk. I won''t know all this."

    "I don''t think I told you this?"

    "It wasn''t hard to know this considering I was also on that pic with you guys and it was the first time, you stopped running after me like a tail and paid attention to another guy."

    Xiang Wai perked up, "Ge, do I smell jealousy?"

    "Yes. Because I was truly mad back then seeing my cute little sister paying too much attention to the guy she just met all because he looked too quiet and lonely to her."

    "Sorry about that," she said.

    Xiang Weimin shook his head, "Forget it. I''m long over it."

 Chapter 1259 Fragile Child

    Chapter 1259 Fragile Child

    Xiang Wai looked at her brother with aplicated gaze. Did she ever notice that while she was running after that lonely and sad boy, she was actually making her own brother lonely too? No, it seemed she never really noticed it. Could she me it on him for never voicing out his feelings? No, she couldn''t. It was a family thing. None of them seemed to be good at expressing their feelings. And he''d never tell her that he wanted attention. Only she was the idiot one who was always ready to tell everyone how much she wanted their attention and love and care.

    "Stop looking at me with that disgusted look," said Xiang Weimin. "Let''s start the next round."

    "Ge, you have to learn to ask for things if you want them. Silence isn''t always the answer. Sometimes you have to be unreasonable to get what you want. Being so understanding and considerate makes people ignore you way too easily."

    Xiang Weimin gave her a smile, "What are you even imagining in that head of yours? Do I look like a pitiful guy? Sister, when I was born, the whole Xiang family revolved around me. I was the sweetheart of ourte grandma. I had a very loving family. So, what makes you think I''m pitiful?"

    Xiang Wai''s expression changed once she heard that and humphed at him, "I forgot, you''re just as good at hurting people as Raelle."

    "I just told you the truth. What can I do about this truth hurting you?"

    "Ge, don''t talk."

    "Why can''t he talk?"

    Xiang Wai looked up when she heard that question and waved at Mu Chenyan then she found Xia Zhao following her and raised her brow in confusion. "Aunt, didn''t you go out in the morning with Aunt Yue? How did your partner for the day change in the middle?"

    "Yue went on a date and left me alone," replied Mu Chenyan. "I had to find someone."

    "So, you also started your own date?" she asked.

    "It wasn''t a date. He was just helping me with shopping and also with carrying shopping bags."

    "So, that''s a date. Shopping date."

    Mu Chenyan gave Xia Zhao a look who looked very innocent and shook her head. "Forget it. You can just call it a date."

    "As I should," replied Xiang Wai. "Do you wanna have dinner?"

    "No, we ate outside," said Mu Chenyan.

    "And she just imed it wasn''t a date," muttered Xiang Wai to herself. "Where did you go? What did you eat? How was the food?"

    "Do you have to know these details?" asked Xiang Weimin. "Let them be."

    "Oh," Xiang Wai shut up.

    "Didn''t you two have dinner?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "No," responded Xiang Wai.

    "Why?"

    "We were ying games."

    Mu Chenyan chuckled, "Something is wrong with the kids of this family. They are doing things they should have done when they were really kids."

    "Was that an insult?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Did you feel it?" "Nope. Not at all."

    "Then it was not an insult."

    "I''ll take your word for it, Aunt. Who made you my favorite aunt in the world?"

    Mu Chenyan shook heer head at Xiang Wai and turned to Xia Zhao, "Help me move these bags to my room."

    "Yes, mdy!"

    Seeing them walking away, Xiang Wai''s lips twitched, "What the hell? Isn''t she a little too natural at ordering him around?"

    "Why does it matter when he is willing to listen?" was Xiang Weimin''s response. "By the way, I almost forgot to ask. Did you submit your bridesmaid application to Raelle?"

    Xiang Wai groaned and punched the air, "I almost missed the deadline because I didn''t know what to do. I can''t believe she put me through this. The only sliver lining is that she was fair enough to pull Cloe into this. But that Cloe is no good. After staying with Raelle for so long, she also has Raelle''s colors. I asked her for help and she didn''t help at all. You know what she said? She said she had already submitted her application long ago. It made me want to do something."

    "Do whatever you want, just don''t hit her. I don''t think that''ll give you any good points with Raelle."

    "Why else do you think I held back?" asked Xiang Wai. "Sigh. It''s so tiring. Is it really too much to ask for? I really didn''t think so."

    "So, what did you write?" asked Xiang Weimin curiously. He was genuinely curious because knowing Xiang Wai, he for sure knew what she was capable of.

    "Don''t ask. I don''t wanna repeat what nonsense I wrote."

    "Why did you write nonsense?"

    "Because I''m still betting on the fact that Raelle might end up liking my nonsense and give me a green card."

    "Why do you have this illusion?"

    "Doesn''t she seem to like Yue Fai''s nonsense?"

    "Are you Yue Fai?" he asked.

    "I don''t wanna be him."

    "I don''t you can be. At least, not in Raelle''s life."

    Xiang Wai clutched her chest and gave her brother a hurt look, "Ge, you don''t have to attack me like this."

    "I did no such thing."

    "I agree with him," came Mu Chenyan''s voice. "I don''t think he said anything wrong."

    "Aunt, are you taking sides? I thought we weren''t supposed to do that in this family. It can scar a child''s heart."

    "Who is the child here?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Xiang Wai pointed at herself, "Me! I have kept my fragile, small child alive in the corner of my heart. The same child that had longed for the love of a family. You can''t scar that child."

    "Is it that serious?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "What do you think?" retorted Xiang Wai. "It''s really that serious," said Xiang Weimin. "You shouldn''t do this with her. Or her fragile heart might not be able to take it in."

    "Scary,"mented Mu Chenyan as she went to the kitchen to find herself something to drink.

 Chapter 1260 [Bonus chapter] Elixir Of Life

    Chapter 1260 [Bonus chapter] Elixir Of Life

    "Did she forget we have so many maids in the house?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Now, your inner fragile child isn''t hurting?" came Xiang Weimin''s question in return.

    "Ge, don''t change the topic."

    "I changed the topic or you did?" he was really baffled by her changing mind. Shaking his head, he said, "Did you just notice that she always forgets we have maids at home? I think Grandma takes the credit for that."

    "Why?"

    "Because your grandma trained your aunt and your father to do their own work and not depend excessively on others," came Xia Zhao''s response as he joined the two of them. "She always made them clean their own rooms and do their ownundry too. There was only one nanny in their house at that time. And that was because your grandma wasn''t a very good cook."

    "What? But I always heard that grandma was very good at cooking," said Xiang Wai.

    "There are three people in this family who know how was your grandma''s cooking back then. Your grandpa, your aunt, and your father. And trust me, the three of them never dared to tell your grandma that her food didn''t taste good. So, if they didn''t do it when she was alive, all the more reason they won''t say it when she is no longer around."

    "But isn''t that lying? I thought no one lied in this family."

    "How is it a lie?" asked Xia Zhao. "Maybe you don''t understand it but to all these three people, no matter what kind of food your grandma made was the best food. Because they knew how much effort she put into it. Your grandma was the real young miss of a capitalistic family. Where she stepped, people would put their hands down so that she doesn''t get hurt. She was someone whose fingers never touched water. That''s a metaphor, by the way."

    "I can understand that," said Xiang Wai while Xiang Weimin pursed his lips to hide his smile.

    "I thought I should make it clear for you."

    "Uncle, do you think I''m an idiot?"

    "I don''t think so."

    Xiang Wai tsked at him.

    "Anyway, where was I? Ah, yes. So, your grandma grew up like a princess. You can say she had to change a lot to marry your grandpa and give up on a lot of things too. After all, the Xiang family had always been low-key and unpretentious. She had to adapt. So, when she made the effort to cook for her husband and her kids, this family epted her effort and her love. In the end, the taste of the food didn''t matter. At least, it was edible and no one got the food poisoning too."

    "I suddenly feel like you know more about my family than I do,"mented Xia Zhao.

    "And you find it sad? Why? I am older than you. I came to the Xiang family when I was young. I had a lot of interactions with your family. I learned a lot about your family from my grandparents too. So, it''s not really surprising that I know more than you." Xia Zhao lifted his hand wanting to rub her head but held back as he added, "You really the fragile child of this family. That''s such a surprise considering I always heard how strong-minded people the members of this family were."

    "I''m the oddball."

    "No, you''re the most special one in this family of weirdos."

    Xiang Wai smiled and soon it turned intoughter, "I heard this before."

    "Then you should believe it too."

    "What are you guys talking about?" asked Mu Chenyan as she came with a ss of juice which she gave to Xia Zhao, to repay him for his hard work today.

    "Nothing," said Xiang Wai. "I think your boyfriend is funny."

    "Is he?" Mu Chenyan raised a brow at Xia Zhao in question who shrugged nonchntly as he sipped on the juice.

    "Uncle Zhao!"

    "Hm?"

    "I just realized something."

    "What?"

    "Your grandparents are a generation above my grandparents, right?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Yes, that''s true," answered Xia Zhao.

    "And they are still alive?" she asked in shock. "How old are they? Hundred?"

    "I don''t know actually," replied Xia Zhao. "Why don''t you know? That''s your grandparents."

    "Because I never thought of asking them their age," answered Xia Zhao.

    "Huh? Then don''t they celebrate their birthdays? No, maybe not every year. But don''t old people like to celebrate their big birthdays after every decade?"

    "We don''t have such a tradition," answered Xia Zhao.

    "They are the oldest people in your family. How can you not pay attention?" Xiang Wai seemed to be stuck on this topic.

    "But they aren''t the oldest people in the n," replied Xia Zhao.

    "What? So, there is someone older than them too? There is definitely someone older than a hundred in your n, right?"

    "I think so, yeah."

    "Your reaction is too nd," she said.

    "How else am I supposed to react?" he asked. "I don''t know." Xiang Wai looked disgruntled. Thinking of something, she asked him again, "So, are there many old people in your n?"

    "Yeah."

    "Do you have a secret for a long life? Like your n found some elixir of life or something?"

    Xia Zhao chuckled softly at that. "Are we in a cultivation world or a martial arts world?"

    "I don''t know. I''ll believe whichever one you say."

    "I didn''t know your niece was so adorable," said Xia Zhao to Mu Chenyan who had the same expression as him. "Yeah. She can be really adorable sometimes," said Mu Chenyan with a sigh.

    "Wai, there is no such thing as an elixir of life. If there is anything, I can tell you that the people in my family live long because they always live a healthy and bnced life. There is no such thing as abusing your body. Most of all, you''ll find hope in their eyes even though they are old. They stillugh and live."

 Chapter 1261 Isnt That Bullying?

    Chapter 1261 Isn''t That Bullying?

    "You mean they aren''t as depressed as our grandpa, eh?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Grandpa is depressed?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "Isn''t he?" she retorted. "He misses his wife too much. He loves us so much that he keeps worrying about this and that. There are so many worries in his life. Suddenly, I think that we are the ones making him sad."

    "Don''t say that before him," said Mu Chenyan. "He won''t like to hear that."

    Xiang Wai waved off her hand nonchntly. "Uncle Zhao, can I meet your grandparents?"

    "Why do you want to meet them?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "Because I want to ask them some things," replied Xiang Wai naturally.

    "Knock it off," was Mu Chenyan''s response to her. "Don''t listen to her," she said to Xia Zhao.

    "Actually, this isn''t really an unreasonable request," said Xia Zhao. "I''ll introduce you to my grandparents as soon as I get the chance to do so."

    "Really?" "I really can''t understand your excitement right now,"mented Mu Chenyan.

    Xiang Wai shrugged, "If only my great mind were so easy to understand."

    "Should I apud?"

    Xiang Wai froze in ce when she heard that voice.

    "Or should I knock open that great mind to see just how great it is?"

    Xiang Waiughed awkwardly as she slowly turned her neck and came face to face with Raelle. "Sister, what''s up? What are you doing here? Why didn''t you tell me beforeing?"

    "When did I need to give a notice before showing up here?" asked Raelle as she walked in.

    Mu Chenyan suddenly crouched down and started crawling away.

    "Yanyan can stop," said Raelle. "Running is futile."

    Mu Chenyan closed her eyes and took a deep breath before jumping up to stand. "Haha! Who is running? I dropped something. I was looking for that."

    "Oh, did Wai''s brain drop that you had to look for it?"

    Xiang Weiminughed at that and said, "Don''t do that to her."

    Xiang Wai puffed up her cheeks as she nodded, "Yes, don''t do that to me. Or I''ll start crying."

    "Okay, I won''t do it," agreed Raelle way too early than Xiang Wai expected, so she was left a bit startled.

    "Did my threat work?" asked Xiang Wai. "Hey! You don''t like seeing people cry?"

    "Who likes seeing people cry?" asked Raelle in return.

    Xiang Wai got stuck with that question and while she was busy thinking about it, Raelle walked to Mu Chenyan.

    "You are giving more surprises now than the past two decades."

    Mu Chenyan bit the inside of her lip before saying, "I got a little too hyper there."

    "You''re always hyper though," Raelle stated a fact. "Yes, you had been putting on the act of a calm person for me but we both know that was just that; an act. You never really let go of your temper. But to take out your temper on someone like this... I did not think it was possible."

    "Was I supposed to stay silent? I hate that white lotus."

    "Hate is a strong word," said Raelle. "That''s what you taught me."

    "Yes, it is. And since I''m using it, you can understand the intensity of my emotions," said Mu Chenyan. "She called my boyfriend as her fiance. What was I supposed to do? Watch it? I couldn''t do it."

    "Did you break a bone of hers?" asked Raelle.

    "No, they held me back," Mu Chenyan looked usingly at Xia Zhao and Shui Xian. "That must be the most regretful thing of today, no?"

    "Of course!" "What happened?" asked Xiang Weimin curiously. "Aunt, did you get into a fight with someone?"

    "It can''t be considered a fight since I couldn''t even deliver a single punch."

    Xiang Weimin gave her a look, "I guess that''s why your emotions are still not in ce."

    "Huh?"

    "If you had thrown even a single punch, you''d have let off some heat. Since the heat is still stuck within you, it''s burning you inside. Not healthy. You should go and let off some heat."

    Raelle actually agreed with Xiang Weimin as she nodded, "You should do that."

    "You should try meditation," Shui Xian suggested.

    Everyone gave him a look.

    "Husband, do you really think Yanyan can control her impatience to sit down in silence and meditate?"

    Shui Xian thought about it before shaking his head, "No, that doesn''t sound like something she is capable of doing."

    "Exactly!"

    "Then how about swimming?" he added.

    "That would be good if only she liked swimming."

    "Then how about..."

    Mu Chenyan stopped Shui Xian from continuing and picked up her phone to call, "Bring everyone to the gym. Let''s have apetition."

    Seeing her leave, Xiang Wai asked, "Where is she going?"

    Even Xia Zhao looked at Raelle along with everyone.

    "She just called all the bodyguards. Poor them! It''s another beating just because she is not feeling good."

    "Isn''t that bullying?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Yes, but she does it very reasonably too. After all, as the boss she needs to make sure all the bodyguards are working hard and are not fishing everyday. So, she calls them over for sparring whenever she feels like it. This way, she gets to have fun and the others get to learn something along with getting a beating from her."

    "This..." Xiang Wai didn''t know what to say. It didn''t sound all that wrong if Raelle put it like this.

    Xia Zhao gave them all a nod and went to see Mu Chenyan. "Now, who is gonna exin what really happened today?" asked Xiang Weimin as he looked at Raelle and Shui Xian.

    Raelle looked at Shui Xian and said, "You do it. After all, you were at the scene and you got to witness it with your own eyes."

    Shui Xian nodded, "I did get to witness everything and it was quite shocking too. I never thought I''d get to experience something like that."

    "What happened?" Xiang Wai''s appetite was whetted and she was eager to know what happened.

 Chapter 1262 [Bonus chapter] This Is Huge

    Chapter 1262 [Bonus chapter] This Is Huge

    After Shui Xian was done exining everything, Xiang Wai was left gaping in disbelief. "Wow! I didn''t think my cool aunt had this jealous side to her too."

    "It isn''t that unbelievable," was Xiang Weimin''s response. "Maybe it''s unbelievable to you only because you haven''t realized what kind of a status Uncle Zhao has in Aunt''s life."

    "How am I supposed to know when she tells me nothing?" retorted Xiang Wai. She sniffed and looked at Raelle asking, "Did you have dinner? Would you like to eat with us?"

    "I already ate," replied Raelle. "It''s way past my dinner time."

    Xiang Wai also looked at the time and even she had to say that it was quitete for dinner. She chuckled at that, "That''s right. It''s quitete. What did you have?"

    "ck bean noodles."

    "Korean food?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Yes."

    "Where did you buy it?"

    "My husband made it," replied Raelle.

    Xiang Wai gave Shui Xian a look, "You don''t look like it but you''re very diligent type."

    "I don''t look like it?" asked Shui Xian. "Exactly what do I look like in your eyes, Wai?"

    "Like a heartthrob but also a heartbreaker at the same time."

    "Huh?"

    "What? Did I say something wrong?"

    "Didn''t you? I don''t think that matches me at all," said Shui Xian.

    "Yeah. I realized that after interacting with you, you only look like that. Your real persona is a whole different story. You''re such a perfect house-husband material."

    "Oh? Thanks, I guess."

    "You''re wee!" Xiang Wai wanted to pull Raelle aside but considering that she wouldn''t like it, she held back and asked, "Sister, did you pass my application? When should I go for the second round of interviews?"

    Raelle gave her a deep look which made Xiang Wai a bit uneasy and soon, she realized what this ominous uneasiness was as Raelle started reciting, "''The reasons why I should be considered for the role of your bridesmaid. First, sisterhood. Even though in the name of sisterhood, we only share the same blood and DNA, I believe that''s very important too. Second, I''m providing your emotional support by crying in your ce. Don''t worry, I''ll bring my own tissues. Third, I''ll dominate the dance floor so that you don''t have to do something you don''t like at all. Fourth, I''ll even drink in your ce. You can trust my drinking capacity, I''d never embarrass you.''"

    "Please stop," said Xiang Wai. "That was supposed to be private. Aren''t applications usually confidential material or something?"

    "I didn''t even get to the best part yet," said Raelle as she went on, "What was it... Ah! ''Why I''m the best choice? Obviously, because you have no other option. If you don''t give me a green card, I''ll continue to pester you to the point of making you sick. So, for the sake of your own mental health and peace, please ept me. In exchange, I''ll decorate your bridal room for you. How is it? Isn''t the deal worth it?''" She looked at Xiang Wai who looked like the world was ending and asked, "Should I continue?"

    "No!" said Xiang Wai. "I think this is enough."

    "Would you mind telling me what was that?" asked Raelle.

    "A very sincere and honest application. At least, I didn''t try to tter you or anything but only stated facts as they are."

    "So, you''re betting on that honesty? That I''d give you a chance just because you''re being honest?"

    "Yes," replied Xiang Wai. "Also, I''m betting on using my ''sister card''. After all, as I said, we might have no such thing as sisterhood but at the end of the day, we are still sisters rted by blood. I don''t this rtionship lightly and I don''t think you do too. I know I have had a lot of opinions about you growing up but that was before I met you. I know I wronged you by doing that so can''t I get a chance for redemption?"

    "Is it really that serious?" asked Raelle.

    "It is to me," answered Xiang Wai.

    Xiang Weimin also got up to stand with Xiang Wai as he held her hand and looked at Raelle, "I can assure you, it really is that serious to her."

    "They say children are a debt to their parents," said Raelle. "You''re not even my kids. Why do I think you''re here to collect some kind of debt from me?"

    Xiang Weimin and Xiang Waiughed at that.

    "And that was a yes, by the way," said Shui Xian.

    Both of them paused and looked at Shui Xian and then at Raelle, inquisitively.

    "Is it? Is it really?" asked Xiang Wai in shock.

    "Didn''t you hear my husband? He interpreted my words so well. What more do you want from me?" responded Raelle.

    Xiang Wai rushed over and hugged Raelle tightly making Raelle freeze in her ce. "Thank you! Thank you so much! You have no idea how much this means to me."

    "You better let go before I change my mind," came Raelle''s words.

    Xiang Wai jumped back andughed, "Aiyo! You really can''tmunicate well, eh?"

    "I can do it better than you," said Raelle as she held Shui Xian and left without looking back.

    "Here I thought she was cold hearted," said Xiang Wai watching her leave. "She is such a softie though."

    "This is why you shouldn''t make an opinion about her," added Xiang Weimin. "She''ll always challenge whatever you think of her."

    "True," nodded Xiang Wai. Then she jumped up to hug Xiang Weimin and stuck to him like a ko as she screamed, "Ge, I got it! I passed!"

    Xiang Weimin didn''t know how to react to her absurdity. He patted her back and said, "Are you that happy? You weren''t even this excited when you passed the military academy''s exam back then. Or even when you climbed up to the rank of a Major so soon."

    "How is that the same?" asked Xiang Wai. "This is huge. You understand that better than anyone else."

    "Right. I do understand."

 Chapter 1263 Ordinary Guy

    Chapter 1263 Ordinary Guy

    Xia Zhao sat for two hours watching Mu Chenyan venting her emotions. In fact, she had long lost her irritability. But then she started having a little too much in ying with her employees and that''s how it prolonged to over two hours.

    Only after having a round with every single person in the gym apart from Xia Zhao, Mu Chenyan stopped and looked at him, "You''re still here?"

    "Do you not want me here?" he asked.

    "That''s not what I meant," she replied. Xia Zhao passed her a towel to dry her sweat and then he brought her water. "Are you feeling better now?" he asked.

    Mu Chenyan drank the whole bottle of water and sighed. Looking at him, she answered, "What does it look like?"

    "You look a lot better now," he told her. Mu Chenyan came to sit down beside him and said, "You wasted so much time just watching this. That''s not like you at all."

    "I wasn''t wasting time," said Xia Zhao. "I was watching you."

    Mu Chenyan paused and pursed her lips, "And that isn''t wasting time?"

    "If it is, I think I can practically waste my whole life doing it."

    Mu Chenyan had an indescribable expression on her face but her heart was also going through turmoil. He looked so serious that she almost got flustered.

    She hit his arm saying, "Please, stop."

    "Okay."

    "You know, I always thought if you made a little effort, the rtionship between you and your mother could get better. After losing my mother, I found my godmother. So, I wasn''t able to really rte to your rtionship with your mother. But after losing my godmother, I seriously thought you should do something to fix that rtionship before it''s toote. After all, life doesn''t give you all that many chances."

    Xia Zhao listened to her without disturbing her at all. He knew he just had to be here to hear what she had to say.

    "However, I changed my mind today."

    "Oh? How? No, why?" he asked.

    "Isn''t it obvious?" she asked in return. "It''s because of that An Ran who is still able to call herself your fiancee so rightfully. Where did she get this courage? Didn''t ite from your mother? What did that mean? It means she still thinks you''re the puppet whose strings are in her hands."

    "Sometimes you''re very good at seeing through people," said Xia Zhao. "But you have always had a very bad habit."

    "What?"

    "You like giving people the benefit of the doubt once your heart softens up a little and that always leads to disasters."

    Mu Chenyan went silent and didn''t refute his words. "Actually, I have a lot of bad habits," she said. "And I don''t even need to list them all for you considering you already know each and every single one of my bad habits." She took a pause and added, "I''m also a very bad person. wed. Twisted. Dark. Doesn''t it bother you?"

    "If it did, we wouldn''t havee this long in life," replied Xia Zhao. "You like to tell people that you''re perfect but you always like to tell me just how many ws you have."

    "People are different from you. I have nothing to hide from Zhao. I can''t hide anything from you anyway. So, I try toe clean in front of you to save myself the ufortable feeling of being seen through."

    "Yan Zi!"

    "Hm?"

    "I have never had a problem with what you are. After all these years apart, I have to realize what I want from you."

    "And what is that?" she asked as she supported her chin with her hand and looked into his eyes.

    "I want you. All of you. I want you every day. No matter if you''re mad at me or when you''re irritated. Whether I piss you off or make you go crazy. I still want you. I want your happy days and as much as I don''t like seeing you sad, I''d still love to be there in your sad days too. I want to be there in your ''I want to murder someone'' days and I want to be there in your ''I want to bury a body'' nights too. I want to be the reason you''re happy because you''re the reason for myughter every day. You said I live a very boring life. I do. I ept I do. I did all the same things over and over again in the past two decades without looking forward to anything. But once I received the call that someone wanted to buy my painting, I knew what looking forward to something actually felt like. Because I was damn excited to be able to see you again. I wanna hold you in my arms. I wanna hold you and stay up all night just talking about some random things that don''t even actually matter. And even though I know you don''t need my protection, I''d still like to protect you from all the evils of the world. I just wanna love you. Is that too much to ask for?"

    Mu Chenyan couldn''t bear the intensity of his eyes and closed her eyes as if by doing so, she''d be able to hide from it all. Teardrops slid down her cheeks and Xia Zhao was a bit shaken by her reaction. He hugged her in his arms.

    "What''s wrong? Why are you crying? Am I really asking for too much? Is that why you''re crying?"

    Mu Chenyan hit his chest and heughed softly in response.

    He held her face in his hands and kissed her eyes before kissing her lips. Mu Chenyan clutched the cor of his shirt tightly as his hand slid behind her neck and held her possessively.

    As he pulled away, he whispered against her lips, "I forgot to mention just now. I really wanted to kiss you too. So, can I?"

    Mu Chenyan looked straight into his eyes, "You didn''t ask before kissing just now."

    "Right. I did not do that."

    And with that, he kissed her even more deeply. Eventually, he ended up lying on the floor with her body sprawled on him. "You know, I did enjoy the fact that you were jealous earlier. But I don''t wanna repeat that too."

    "Huh?"

    "Because that would mean I failed somehow."

    "That''s being too harsh on yourself," she said. "After all, as long as you have this face, someone will be getting attracted by you even when we are just walking down the streets. I once thought I''d find myself an ordinary guy with an ordinary face. It''ll save me a lot of trouble. But I learned ordinary guys also have their own problems. At least, with you, I can eat an extra bowl of rice."

    Xia Zhao smiled, "Really? I remember you said you could eat an extra bowl after seeing me because you get so angry with my face that it allows you to eat a little more. Was that a lie?"

    "No. It was true when I said that. Now, it isn''t. Things have changed now."

    "Is that so?" he asked. "Anyway, earlier really wasn''t your problem. It was mine. I can''t bear even a single grain of sand in my eye. That''s truly my own problem and has nothing to do with you."

    "It could be a problem for others who want to see that as a problem but I never did. So, I''m okay with it."

    Mu Chenyan gave him a look, "You''re okay with everything."

    "Only when it involves you. Otherwise, I''m a very picky person in life."

    "I know." She slowly got up from his body and said, "I''m smelly. Don''t say you don''t mind that. You love cleanliness with a passion. Don''t always go against your principles for me."

    "I guess it has be a habit now."

    "It''s a bad habit."

    "I guess I deserve to get away with at least one bad habit in this rtionship, no?"

    Mu Chenyan shook her head at him and said, "I''m gonna take a shower. Are you gonna wait or are you leaving now?"

    "What do you suggest?" Mu Chenyan gave him a look as he went on, "I''ll do what you say."

    "Then how about you join me for this shower?"

    Xia Zhao was left speechless and Mu Chenyan enjoyed his look way too much.

    She lowered her voice and said, "So? Do you..."

    "Don''t repeat that question. I will really take it seriously this time."

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips and then smiled at him as she turned to leave, "Go home. It''s toote. It''s already your sleep time." As she walked past him, she stopped and said, "By the way, my offer wasn''t a joke. I was very serious. Tough luck that you didn''t take it seriously." With a teasing look, she skipped away leaving him standing there with aplicated look.

    "I''m d her heart is still as yful as ever."

 Chapter 1264 Parallels

    Chapter 1264 Parallels

    Hyson sat under the shade of the tree with a notebook and a pen in his hand. A slow breeze caressed his face intermittently. The mottled sunlight fell on him through the gaps between the leaves. He seemed to be in his own world as he wrote something in his notebook very seriously.

    Someone came to sit beside him but he didn''t even notice it until that person started talking, "Why are you so lost these days?"

    Hyson paused and turned to look at the little kid sitting beside him. He smiled at him and said, "I have something to do and until I''m done with it, I''ll be looking lost like this." He took a pause and asked, "What are you doing here? Isn''t your scene done for the day, Rowan?"

    "It is done," replied little Rowan. "But it''s been days since I didn''t get the chance to speak to you. So, I came over here to find you."

    "Your scenes are gonna bepleted soon, right?" asked Hyson. "What are you doing after that?"

    "I''m going back to school."

    Hyson pursed his lips and then smiled at him.

    "Don''tugh. Just because you seem to forget it, doesn''t mean I''m not a kid who still has to go to school. Soon, the summer vacation will be over and I''ll have to go back to my normal life."

    "Not looking forward to it?" asked Hyson.

    "Who said that? I love my normal life."

    "Yeah? Me too. I seem to love my normal life a little too much."

    "I have noticed somethingtely," stated Rowan.

    "What?"

    "You don''t seem to like making friends very much. Whenever you get the chance you find a corner for yourself."

    "Is it wrong?"

    "I don''t know. I just didn''t expect you to be like this."

    "What did you really expect?" asked Hyson as he rubbed his head. "How old are you? What are these big thoughts in your small head?"

    Rowan pushed away his hand and fixed his hair, "You of all people should understand the struggle. Why mess up my hair? Don''t you already know how long it takes to fix them?"

    "Sorry, I couldn''t help it," replied Hyson. "Anyway, you look like a cheerful person but I don''t think you really are that cheerful or friendly. You look so distant even when you''re standing in the crowd with the brightest smile on your face. Is that cheerfulness a facade?"

    "I don''t know. I have kept this up for so long that maybe I have started to believe it to be real too. But for you to be able to see through it all... I have to give the props to your keen senses."

    Rowan shrugged, "I would like to thank my good genes for that. And for having a family where people are always vocal about their feelings and wishes."

    "And I grew up in the family where I had to learn to understand the defeating silence around me. I had to learn to interpret that silence. I grew up in a family where I saw too many fake smiles. So, I have a thing against fake smiles. Maybe that''s why I am not able to make so many friends around here."

    "If you don''t like fake smiles, you''re in the wrong industry, brother!"

    Hyson nodded his head, "I know. I always knew I''m in the wrong industry but it can''t be helped. I''m already here."

    Rowan looked at him deeply before changing the topic, "What were you writing just now?"

    "My best friend is getting married."

    "I know that."

    "Being the best friend, I have to give a speech at her wedding reception."

    "Isn''t that the job of the maid of honor and the best man?"

    "It is."

    "Which one are you?"

    "Man of honor?"

    Rowanughed at his response and patted his shoulder, "You can definitely pull that off."

    "I know. I can pull off anything."

    "I believe you, brother! I have a strong faith in you."

    "Wow! That''s encouraging."

    Rowan thought of something and said, "Brother, give me your hand."

    "What? Why?"

    "Just do it."

    Hyson extended his hand towards him and Rowan pulled out a handmade bracelet and put it on his wrist saying, "I made this friendship band for you."

    Hyson was a little stunned. For no other reason but that it was his first time receiving such a thing. At least, apart from his fans, he had never gotten this from anyone else. This was a real surprise. A pleasant one. "This is colorful."

    "I find you colorful, so I chose these colors for you. See, you''re warm like red, yellow, and orange. Making one feel energy and enthusiasm. These blue, green, and purple are cool colors. Just like you, they can evoke the feeling of calmness, freshness, sophistication, and all that."

    "You kid..." Hyson didn''t know what to say. "I didn''t prepare anything for you. You should have told me. I''d have prepared a gift for you too."

    "This isn''t that special," said Rowan. "And this isn''t a parting gift. I''m sure we''ll get to see each other a lot more in the future. Anyway, I''lle to your best friend''s wedding even if I have to hide in my mom''s suitcase."

    "Will you be able to hide there?"

    "Don''t worry! She carries over ten suitcases. Even if I hide in one, I''ll get away with it."

    Hysonughed with him happily. He felt really rxed sitting with this guy who was not even half his age. Maybe it was because he missed his own childhood that he was able to find himself getting so close to Rowan.

    "Then make sure toe," said Hyson. "I''ll be waiting for you."

    "You don''t even have to say that. I have to hear your speech too. Since you''re not letting me read it right now."

    "I''m not done with it," said Hyson.

    "I can give you suggestions, you know?"

    "Oh? Can you now? What do you even know, little kid?"

    "A lot more than you. I have a feeling that I have been to more weddings than you."

    "No way!" argued Hyson childishly. "I have been. I was even at my parents wedding."

    Hyson raised his brow at him in shock.

    "Okay, I was still in my mom''s tummy but I was there, at least."

    Hyson snickered, "Then I''ll also be at my parents wedding soon. And I''ll even be able to walk my mom down the aisle. I guess I win."

    "Childish."

    "You started it."

    "How would I know you''d not be embarrassed topete with a kid like me?"

    "I feel no shame inpeting with a kid."

    "I can see that," said Rowan. "Anyway, I have also been at my godmother''s wedding."

    "Oh! I''ll be there too. And guess what? I''d still be throwing flowers in my godmother''s path as she walks down the aisle."

    "I see that you''repetitive spirit is too high."

    "I can''t help it." Hyson grinned at him, "Tell me more."

    "I also went to Aunt Ying''s wedding who married a superstar, by the way."

    "What the hell! My brother Pei Zi Hong is also about to marry a superstar."

    "Don''t curse! It''s bad."

    "Sorry," said Hyson. "I''m just suddenly creeped out by the parallels in our lives. Don''t tell me you have a best friend like mine too."

    Rowan thought about it deeply and shook his head, "Nope. I have two elder sisters who are more than like best friends. Apart from them everyone else in the family is younger than me so I have to y the role of the good brother to them. I seem to not have that many friends of my age."

    "Any special reason for that?" asked Hyson.

    "Maybe because I have always loved to walk behind my sisters and do all sorts of evils. You know, once in school someone pushed me down and my sisters came to avenge me like knightesses. Obviously, we all got a beating after that from the family but I think it was worth it."

    "Your sisters spoils you too much."

    Rowan shrugged, "I can''t help it. Everyone else in our family doesn''t want to spoil kids." He took a pause and added, "Actually, my sisters will being on myst day of shoot. How about I introduce you to them? You''ll understand why I love them so much."

    Hyson nodded, "Okay. I''ll be waiting then. I have to see these protective sisters of yours."

    "Brother,e to my home when you have time. I''ll also introduce you to the triplets from my Uncle Dn''s house. Oh, and the youngest princess of our family from Aunt Ying''s house too. I also want you to meet my grandfathers. And my uncles too."

    "You have so many people you want me to meet?"

    "I met all your family. You should meet mine now."

    "Is it as crazy as mine?"

    "I told you, it''s crazier. You''d love it."

    Hysonughed again and gave him a nod, "Then I''ll drive down to your city when I get the chance. Anyway, it''s not far from Kia City."

    "Then I''ll be waiting. I''ll cook you a meal."

    "Yourself?"

    "Why? You think I can''t? Don''t underestimate my talent."

    "I''m not underestimating. I''m just a little worried about your safety."

    "That''s sweet of you but even my parents don''t mind me ying with knives. But don''t worry, I''m good at it. I guess it''s also one of the perks of having two best cooks in the family."

    "Rowan, you don''t have to do so much. We can just go out too eat, you know."

    "No, I have to be a good host."

    "Don''t worry, you''ll be the one paying for that meal. I think you can afford that."

    Rowan gave him a look, "Brother, would you be okay seeing a kid paying for your meal?"

    "I''m perfectly fine with it."

    "I see what kind of a person you are."

    "So? The meal''s off?"

    "No way! You still areing over. I''ll first try to coax my mom into making us a meal if it didn''t work, I''ll go with n B."

    "You''re such a sweet boy."

    "Yeah. My mom says I''m the sweet fruit of her love for my dad. That''s why I''m such a sweet boy."

    Hyson looked at his serious expression and didn''t know what to say before he shook his head and pinched his cheek lovingly, "Yes, you''re sweet. Too sweet." Rowan also giggled in response to that.

 Chapter 1265 Too Lazy To Come

    Chapter 1265 Too Lazy To Come

    *Ring!*

    Hyson nced at his tablet and so did Rowan. Seeing the caller id, Rowan stood up and said, "Your mom is calling. I''ll give you the privacy. See youter!"

    Hyson waved at him absent-mindedly. He didn''t seem to be in a hurry to take the call. Something was on his mind and it was very obvious. He sighed and finally connected the call.

    "Hi, mom! How are you?"

    Yue Yue nced at his big smile and cheerful tone which she was too familiar with. ''What took you so long to take the call? Don''t want to talk to mom?''

    Hyson smiled at her question and shook his head, "How is that possible? I was just taken aback that you called me during the day which doesn''t happen unless it''s an emergency. So, I was a little scared to take the call just now."

    Yue Yue was stumped for a moment because of his response. ''What do you keep thinking in that head of yours? Can''t you think positive? Can''t I just call because I want to see my son?''

    Hyson gasped in disbelief, "That''s even more shocking."

    Yue Yue narrowed her eyes at him, ''What do you mean? No, what do you really mean by this? Do you mean I really can''t call you just because I wanted to see you?''

    "I didn''t say that," he replied. "I''m just touched to see that my mom is caring about me so much."

    ''I have always cared about you.''

    "I know."

    Yue Yue thought about something and asked, ''Is it because I haven''t called you that muchtely that you''re broody? Or do you think I''m giving your dad a lot more attention than you?''

    Hysonughed at that, "Although it''s true that you are giving more attention to your boyfriend, it doesn''t mean I''m mad about that. I''m not mad. Neither am I sad. Nope. Not at all. I''m not a kid anymore, mom. I''m at the age where I think it''s fine if I don''t get to talk to my mother every single day. After all, you have your own life and I have my own too."

    ''Are you sure?''

    "Sure," he replied with a smile as he thought that he was really not a kid anymore. Not the same kid who really thought that his mother gave more attention to the man in her heart and mind than the living, breathing little son of hers. He might be jealous of that man back then but not anymore. In fact, he had long expected it.

    His mother''s life won''t revolve around him once Zhai Kuijun came into the picture and he was very well aware of that from the beginning. But as he said, he was no longer a kid and it didn''t matter. It was actually even better if his mother shifted her attention away from him. At least, she looked happier right now.

    What more could he ask for?

    "Mom, there really isn''t any special reason you''re calling me right now?"

    Yue Yue remembered and asked him, ''Do you know that there is a birthday party at home this week?''

    "I know. We are weing the youngest member of our family."

    Yue Yue wasn''t surprised by how naturally he always considered himself a part of the Xiang family without any burden. And she couldn''t say anything about it too since this was truly a family of hers and his too. She wished he could consider his father to be family but she knew she couldn''t rush it. In fact, even if they took it slowly, it was highly possible that he''d never get to the stage of considering Zhai Kuijun his father or his family.

    She knew about her son this much. ''Yes! It''s Justin''s birthday. I was wondering if you''ll be able toe that day? Can you get a day off?''

    "It''s not about a day off," said Hyson. "It just so happens that the production team is rushing to finish Rowan''s scenes these days since his summer vacations are ending and he has to get back to school. So, I have a lot of free time."

    Yue Yue frowned, ''Then what are you doing there? Can''t youe home?''

    "What if I say I don''t want to?" asked Hyson.

    ''What?!''

    Hyson grinned at her in response, "I''m toozy to travel, mom. Have some pity on your son."

    ''You''re bing wilful!''

    "Wasn''t I always wilful?" retorted Hyson. "I thought I always was. Howe you didn''t notice as my mother? Or you can''t see your own son''s ws? That''s not true. You love pointing out a million ws in your own son. How could you not see this one?"

    ''I love pulling your ear too,'' said Yue Yue. ''You better protect your ears when youe back. When did I point out your ws? And even if I did, aren''t I just reminding you of your ws so that you can do a better job at hiding them from the world? You should thank me for helping you keep up with your perfect facade all these years.''

    "Wow! I have an awesome mom!"

    ''I''m not so easily coaxed!'' Yue Yue pouted at him unhappily. ''You better note. Lazy little lunatic!''

    Hyson pursed his lips to hold back his smile.

    ''If you are so courageous, don''t daree!''

    "Huh? What does that mean?" asked Hyson. Yue Yue didn''t respond and hung up the call instead leaving Hyson baffled. Once she was done, she thought, ''Ah! I forgot to tell him that someone wasing to see him. Forget it. He''ll find out anyway! Let''s see how you dare to refuse her! Huh!''

    She was really mad at this insensible son right now and didn''t even want to talk to him. What did he say? He was toozy toe and see her? Hmph!

    She picked up a pillow beside and threw it away. It just so happened that Zhai Kuijun was standing there and it hit him on the face. Hearing the groan, Yue Yue froze and looked over to see Zhai Kuijun. She smiled at him sheepishly.

 Chapter 1266 [Bonus chapter] Hand-In-Hand

    Chapter 1266 [Bonus chapter] Hand-In-Hand

    "What happened? Who made you so mad?" Zhai Kuijun was actually surprised to see this reaction from Yue Yue. Because the Yue Yue he remembered didn''t get easily angered. And it wasn''t just his preconceived notion either. He had noticed how cool, delicate, easygoing, and elegant she still was. It was his first time seeing her so frustrated.

    Yue Yue looked unhappy and typed on her phone for him, ''Isn''t there only one person in the world capable of making me mad in this world?''

    "Huh? Who is it? Who is this warrior?" asked Zhai Kuijun jokingly.

    ''Your son!''

    "I believe you''re talking about Yue Fai and not Zhai Yanjun, right?" he asked tentatively. "If it''s Yanjun, I''ll teach him a lesson for you but if it''s Fai, I can''t help you vent your anger. Sorry, I''m not that capable."

    Yue Yue gave him a funny look and sighed helplessly. ''You really need to stop being scared of your own son.''

    "I can''t help it," said Zhai Kuijun. "I don''t know what he looks like in your mind but in mine, he seems a little dangerous even though he looks the most harmless one in the family even surpassing Justin."

    Yue Yueughed silently at that but couldn''t refute his words either. Her dearest son was indeed very cunning and looked way too harmless to society. "But don''t let me get started on the way he speaks. I feel like he likes hurting people more than Raelle."

    Yue Yue smiled bitterly at that, ''He doesn''t like hurting people. It''s his defense mechanism. Raelle ends up hurting people because of her honesty and her inability to distinguish between what is considered hurtful to people. But Fai has always done it with a purpose. He is very clear about what he wants. He hurts people before they can hurt him. He is too good at that. He can tell what will hurt the other person and he purposely chooses to say those things.''

    Zhai Kuijun attentively read the words and contemted deeply. He seemed to really want to know Hyson as he had been inquiring about him from everyone. Even a small detail about Hyson, he''d try to find out. However, the person who knew Hyson best was Raelle and he couldn''t go and question Raelle. For one, Raelle wasn''t an easy person to talk to. Second, Hyson was really precious to Raelle. And since Hyson considered him a familiar stranger at most, Raelle would give him the same treatment too. These best friends really knew how to stick together. He had to give them that.

    "Why do you think he is like that?" asked Zhai Kuijun.

    ''Because he got hurt a lot by society when he was too young to bear that pain. It made him be what he is. Don''t think he is friendly. In fact, he is most unfriendliest person in this family. Even surpassing Raelle. If it wasn''t that he was fatefully attracted to Raelle back then, he might have lost himself in the darkness way sooner. It''s not that he brought light to Raelle''s world. She did the same for him. While he was trying to make her smile, he was also learning tough himself. This is why I always say, no one will ever be able to understand what kind of a connection Raelle and Fai have.''

    Zhai Kuijun bit his lips thoughtfully and said, "It must have been very difficult back then."

    ''It was.'' Yue Yue had a dazed look in her eyes for a while before she typed, ''But having a mother like me must have made it more difficult for him. I was supposed to protect him and even I didn''t know he had been protecting me where I couldn''t see at all. When I learned, I brought him to this city for a new start. That might have been the best decision of my life.''

    Zhai Kuijun didn''t ask for details because he knew she wouldn''t borate more than that. But this was enough to show what kind of life they had lived back then. While he was looking for her back then, she was struggling to survive with their son. Whenever he thought it, it made him want to go and strangle Yue Lan to death.

    If she wasn''t the birth mother of Zhai Yanjun, he''d have really done that.

    Yue Yue shook off all the bad memories and typed, ''Do you think Chenyan arrived there? I wonder what his reaction will be to see his godmother.'' She looked very envious as she added, ''He must be happier than seeing me for sure.''

    Zhai Kuijun smiled at her childish reaction and said, "You don''t have to think like that. I know Fai loves you very much."

    ''You don''t understand. He loves me. But more than that, he wants to protect me from everything. He does everything to make me happy. It''s different when ites to Chenyan. He bes his real self around her. He gets to just focus on being big baby who is spoiled by his godmother to heaven. If I do more for him, he''d start feeling bad for making me work for him. But with Chenyan, he is happy to run wild.''

    "You really envy her, eh? I can''t me you for that."

    ''What''s there to envy? Chenyan still loves me more.''

    Zhai Kuijunughed at that and nodded his head, "Yes, yes. Chenyan loves her sister very much. Who doesn''t know that? I think this news has already circted in our circle too and it made a lot of people curious about this mysterious sister of Mu Chenyan who only appeared at the auction a while ago."

    Yue Yue was shocked to hear that.

    He pinched her cheek saying, "Yes. You''re very famous in our circle right now." Yue Yue nervously rubbed her hands at the thought of seeing those people from their circle and Zhai Kuijun held her hand, "What are you worried about? You have two sons to stand behind you like knights. You had the best sister who stands in front of your as a shield. You have such a good adoptive father who is willing to shelter you from rain and wind."

    ''What about you?''

    "Me? I''ll stand beside you. Hand-in-hand. Is that okay?"

    Yue Yue smiled at him and nodded her head heavily.

 Chapter 1267 Words Are Not Needed

    Chapter 1267 Words Are Not Needed

    "Brother Yue, someone is here to see you."

    Hyson looked up from his phone at his assistant and frowned, "Me?"

    "Yes."

    "Who is it?"

    "I don''t know. They said they are your family."

    "Family?" asked Hyson to confirm. "And you believed that? What if it''s some fan trying to impersonate my family?"

    The young assistant was baffled for a moment and pursed her lips before saying in a small voice, "I''m not a fool. I saw one of them with you before that''s why I agreed to call you."

    Hyson looked straight at her, "Are you feeling wronged?"

    The young assistant shook her head, "No, it''s not wrong of you to doubt. Besides, it''s not like you yelled at me or anything. You just put forward your doubts and reminded me to be more vignt in the future."

    "I did all that? And I have no clue?" Hyson smiled at her strangely. "Don''t put me on a pedestal. I already have way too many people doing that."

    Hyson shook his head at her innocence and asked where this visitor was before leaving. He went to the make-up room assigned to him and was stunned to see the visitor. He rubbed his eyes and looked carefully with disbelief written on his face.

    "What? Is it unbelievable that I am here to see you?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "It''s shocking for sure," came Hyson''s response. Then he ran to her side and gave her a bear hug excitedly. "Oh, you are real." He giggled in a silly manner making Mu Chenyan chuckle along with him. "What are you doing here? When did youe? Why did youe? And why didn''t you tell me beforeing? Tsk, I was just on a call with Mum, and even she didn''t say a word. You guys are something."

    "Okay, okay. Stop already with this barrage of questions. Give me a break. I''ll answer all your questions but let''s do it one at a time."

    "Sorry, I got a little too excited," grinned Hyson at her happily. He held her arm and pulled her to sit on the couch. "Yanyan, it''s so good to see you here."

    Mu Chenyan''s smile didn''t drop from the moment her eyesid on his face. She rubbed his head and asked, "Are you that happy to see me here?"

    "I am."

    "Why? Did you miss me that much?"

    "I missed you. But also because it''s the first time, you''reing to see me at work. It''s different."

    "Aren''t you the reason why no one from homees to see you at work? You always say to keep your personal and professional life apart."

    "But my personal and professional life are already mixed up. So it doesn''t matter anymore. I just don''t want people to give me too much attention. But it doesn''t mean I don''t want to show off my beautiful godmother."

    "Oh, look at this glib tongue. It gets better and better."

    "You can''tin. You said I should know the art of how to sweet talk someone into ecstasy because someone has to take over your mantle. These skills made you survive under your godmother."

    Mu Chenyan coughed unnaturally, "Don''t say that in front of anyone else."

    Hyson made the gesture of zipping his lips, "Your secrets are safe with me."

    "I highly doubt that," Mu Chenyan pinched his cheek. "You can''t keep secrets from Elle."

    "I can," argued Hyson. "If you tell me to keep a secret, I will keep it a secret. You can even ask Ellie, I never shared over secrets with her. Just like I won''t share her secrets with you."

    Mu Chenyan gasped, "You both have secrets that I don''t know? Should I be feeling hurt or left out?"

    "You should stop being dramatic," said Hyson. "I have already inherited all your dramatic skills. There is no need to show me a live performance anymore to learn."

    "I''m offended," said Mu Chenyan.

    "No, you''re not."

    There was a knock on the door before it was opened and Hyson turned to look who was here. Seeing an even more unexpected face in front of him, Hyson was momentarily silent.

    It was Mu Chenyan who spoke, "Oh, you''re back. Did you find coffee for me?"

    "Yeah. Here is your Iced Americano," said Xia Zhao as he moved his eyes away from Hyson. Seeing Hyson hugging Mu Chenyan''s arm and resting his head on her shoulder, he acted very normal. He passed the Iced Americano to his girlfriend and then extended another box towards Hyson. "This is for you."

    Hyson looked at him, "For me?"

    "Yes. For you."

    "What is it?" asked Hyson without any intention of taking it from him.

    "Cake."

    Hyson immediately snatched the box from him and opened the box to eat but was pped on the back of his head. "Wash your hands. How old are you? Do I still have to remind you?"

    "It''s not like I''m gonna eat with my hands. There is a fork here," argued Hyson childishly.

    "Are you still quibbling here? Do you think I''ll let you go if you

    quibble? Besides, isn''t it better to wash your hands than wasting your time here quibbling? Use your time properly."

    "Who is this? Ellie, go away! Who told you get inside my godmother''s body?! Go! Go far away! Give me godmother back!"

    Mu Chenyan red at him and he dropped the act before obediently going to wash his hands.

    Seeing him leaving, even Xia Zhao has a small smile on his face, "He is very energetic."

    "Tell me about that," said Mu Chenyan. "It was mentally tiring to spend time with Raelle growing up but it was physically tiring to be with Fai. These two really exhausted me mentally and physically."

    "He really loves you,"mented Xia Zhao.

    Mu Chenyan raised her brow at him, "How can you tell? You guys barely even know each other."

    "Some feelings don''t require words. It''s very easy to see his love for you. Words are really not needed. No, they are very unnecessary." He had a very thoughtful look on his face as he spoke but Mu Chenyan chose not to delve into it at all.

 Chapter 1268 Kinds Of Love

    Chapter 1268 Kinds Of Love

    Hyson came back very soon and started eating the cake. He didn''t even offer a bite to anyone even just for the sake of being polite. "Yan Zi said you love cakes. It seems you really do."

    Hyson looked up at Xia Zhao, "Of course, I love cakes. But then again, I like anything sweet."

    "Really? You see like a chocte guy to me though."

    "Huh?" "You know, someone who seems sweet but hides a darker bitterness behind that sweetness."

    Hyson paused and looked into his eyes before focusing back on eating his cake withoutmenting on that statement. He didn''t think it was a question. And neither did he think, Xia Zhao wanted an exnation. It was just that; a statement.

    And it was a statement he couldn''t refute either.

    Mu Chenyan was looking at Hyson lovingly as he ate when she heard that statement from Xia Zhao. She frowned to herself and before she could say anything, her phone rang. Seeing the caller id, she stood up and said, "Excuse me, I have to take this. I''ll be right back." She moved to the door before looking back at Xia Zhao, "Be nice to my son."

    Xia Zhao gave her a nod, "Yes, mdy!"

    Mu Chenyan rolled her eyes at him before going out of the room.

    One she walked out, Hyson stopped eating and finally straightened up. His eyes shotsers at Xia Zhao.

    "What? Are you dissatisfied with me?"

    "No," replied Hyson. "If I was dissatisfied, you wouldn''t be here."

    "Oh?"

    "My godmother won''t bring you here if I was dissatisfied with you."

    "I thought you''d say you won''t let me stay in her life."

    "That''s not up to me," replied Hyson. "That''s her business and she is smart enough to know what she wants. You''re her life partner, not mine. Let''s just assume that even if I do have any problem with you, that''s on me. I won''t bring it between you and her."

    Xia Zhao nodded his head, "Yup. You''re really a sensible kid."

    "I''m not a kid."

    "I''m close to your mother''s age."

    "But you are younger than my mother," Hyson pointed out. "Fair enough."

    "It seems like we didn''t get a chance to meet each other very much. Or even had a proper conversation," said Hyson.

    "Yes. We didn''t get to sit down to get to know each other."

    "Right, all I know about you is from Ellie. And although all the testing ns came from me, I wasn''t there in person. So, let''s chat."

    "Sure."

    "You better understand that I am very stingy. I have only one godmother and I''d be honest with you, sometimes she takes over even my own mother. So, you can understand what she means to me. I''m her only godson and I am not going anywhere."

    Xia Zhao observed the emotions in his eyes and found it fascinating that this confident and slightly arrogant young man was actually very scared of losing his godmother. And this fact alone could exin to Xia Zhao how much Mu Chenyan meant to him.

    "You don''t have to go anywhere. No one is asking you to."

    "No one can send me away."

    Xia Zhao gave him aforting smile, "I never had an experience with kids. So, I don''t mind having a big son like you."

    "What are you talking about?"

    "I''m dating your godmother, shouldn''t I get the role of a godfather?"

    "You seem very eager?"

    "Who told my godson to be so adorable?"

    Hysonughed at that, "I do love peopleplimenting me but it seems weird right now. So, don''t do that again." He took a pause and turned serious, "What I heard about you tells me that you''re a great guy. And if anything, no one is a better choice for my godmother than you. So, that alone is enough for me to not have any issues with you. Although it''s a pointless reminder, I''d still say, be nice to Yanyan. She supported me and Raelle for years and made us who we are today. But if possible, we''d like you to be her support now. Someone she can lean on and rx. Because no matter how much we grow up, she can''t seem to rx but instead keeps getting more and more anxious."

    "Even the words you and Raelle say are the same. You guys make good friends."

    "There is no doubt about that."

    "And you don''t have to worry about what you just said. I had always been here for Yan Zi. It''s just she who took her sweet time look back at me."

    "Tsk. Don''t think I don''t know that you didn''t even realize you loved her until now."

    Xia Zhao put his fist in front of his mouth and coughed, "Well, I''ll ept that. But it still won''t change the fact that I have always been waiting for her. Even if I didn''t know it was because of love, I was still hoping for her to look back and allow me to be her pir of support."

    Hyson stared at his face for a while and sighed, "I had a lot of things to say when I faced my birth father, strangely, I feel like I have nothing more to say to you. Because you seem too mature and knowledgeable. It seems like my reminders are unnecessary."

    Xia Zhao smiled at him the same way that Mu Chenyan smiled at him and this realization stunned Hyson for a moment. He didn''t think Xia Zhao would look at him the same way Mu Chenyan did. But he knew it was because of Mu Chenyan. And seeing this only proved to Hyson that his worries were really unnecessary. This man took Mu Chenyan and everything rted to her way too seriously.

    He was really willing to treat him as a godson just like Mu Chenyan and he wasn''t just saying it.

    Hyson mentally tsked at this realization and wondered what kind of love was this now? Why did everyone around him have different kinds of love? Wasn''t love the same?

 Chapter 1269 Biggest Blessing

    <h4>Chapter 1269 Biggest Blessing</h4>

    From this short conversation, Hyson came to realize that in his subconscious mind, he actually thought that Zhai Kuijun was an untrustworthy person. At least,pared to Xia Zhao. Because he really had a lot less of reminders for Xia Zhao than Zhai Kuijun even though Hyson loved Mu Chenyan a little more than Yue Yue. But then again, maybe it was because what he felt towards Yue Yue was more of protectiveness and that''s why he wanted to make sure she didn''t get hurt.

    It was different when it came to Mu Chenyan. She wasn''t as fragile as Yue Yue.

    "Life has been pretty harsh on you,"mented Xia Zhao out of nowhere catching Hyson off guard. He frowned in response in confusion, "What does that mean?"

    "You''re so young. Life puts a lot of burdens on you early on. Is that why you didn''t grow tall?"

    Hyson gaped at him in disbelief, "How dare you say that I''m not tall?"

    "You''re not as tall as me," reminded Xia Zhao. He didn''t know why he suddenly had this urge to tease this young man who acted all serious but really was a kid at heart. Hyson opened his mouth to say something but he couldn''t find any words to refute. It was harsh but it was true that he was a bit shorter than Xia Zhao. But in his defense, he felt that Xia Zhao was too tall. Yes! It wasn''t that he was short, it was the other person''s fault for being too tall!

    "Are you ming me for being too tall?" asked Xia Zhao making Hyson speechless and he even nodded in response in a daze. "You''re so easy to read. My nephew didn''t lie to me at all. You are cute."

    Hyson pouted, "Is that person talking behind my back?"

    "Not really. Ru doesn''t have a habit of talking behind people. I just asked him what he thought of you. You know, impression. And he just told me his honest impression." Xia Zhao smiled at him the same way as before and patted his shoulder saying, "It''s your time to put down the weight you''ve been carrying for so long. I believe you have done a good job being a good son. It''s time for you to live your own life and let your mother protect herself on her own. Maybe you are willing to do it for her for life but that way, she won''t learn to protect herself. Do you know how I learned to swim?"

    "How?"

    "My grandfather pushed me into the sea."

    "What?" Hyson was shocked.

    "Shocking right? It was super unsafe. I was always a bit creeped out by the ocean. It made me repulsive to the idea of swimming so I kept avoiding my swimming lessons. But once I was thrown in the sea and felt like I was gonna drown, I realized at that moment that fear of death was bigger than my fear of trying something new."

    "Did you get hurt?" asked Hyson.

    "No, I had a lot of people around me who just needed to give me a hand to pull me out. They just wanted me to walk out of my shell."

    "I still think it seems very rude and unsafe and very inhuman."

    Xia Zhaoughed at his words and shook his head, "Yes, because in a loving family, who would push their own kid into the sea when he doesn''t even know how to swim, right?"

    "Right," Hyson agreed without any hesitation.

    "However, my family is different. We don''t express love the same way as others. This seemed rude to you but it was very normal to me."

    "But couldn''t they have just let you be? Since you didn''t want to learn swimming, they should have just let you go."

    "They could cut me the ck. Indeed, they could. But even if they did, life won''t. Do you think life cuts you a ck?" Hyson went silent and shook his head. "Where my n lives, it''s surrounded by ocean from three sides. Do you know what that means? It meant I had to learn to swim for my own survival. Maybe I''d be lucky enough to never have to use my swimming skills to save my life. But what if? Life is all about what-ifs after all. And my grandparents wanted to teach me that, sometimes, we do have to do things that go against our own wishes. Just because I am scared of darkness, night won''t stoping over and over again. We often do things not because we like them, but because they are a necessity."

    "Profound," said Hyson. "It was indeed profound. And thanks for the reminder. But I didn''t have the intention of stopping my mother from getting together with Zhai Kuijun anyway."

    Xia Zhao''s smile brightened when Hyson read between the lines and understood what he was saying. This kid was indeed smart as he was told before. "You are a good kid, Hyson," said Xia Zhao. He didn''t call him Yue Fai like others but called him Hyson like Raelle did. Hyson found it a bit strange for a moment. "You are a very good kid. And I know you had no such intention. The purpose of telling you this was that you don''t keep worrying about your mother. As I said, it''s your time to put down your burden and live your life."

    "I got used to protecting her since I was young," said Hyson. "Hmm... It''s really difficult to change habits."

    "But I''m trying. I have toe to terms with the fact that I don''t have to do everything alone anymore. I''m not alone to protect her. She has other people who loves and her protects her too. And not only that, she has also grown to learn how to protect herself."

    "It means your efforts paid off. You did a good job."

    "Did I do it?"

    "Why don''t ask her? I assure you, she boldened herself to take a stand because of you. It''s just as your mother told me that having you as a son is her life''s biggest blessing."

 Chapter 1270 Baby Throne

    Chapter 1270 Baby Throne

    Hyson got a bit emotional when he heard that but stillughed it off. "I also think I''m a blessing to this world."

    "You are," said Xia Zhao. "There aren''t that many people who look like sunshine and also are warm like it, after all."

    "Don''t tter me. I already approved your rtionship."

    "Who is ttering who?" came Mu Chenyan''s voice and both of them turned to look at her.

    "Yanyan, your boyfriend is ttering me," said Hyson.

    Mu Chenyan raised a brow at Xia Zhao in surprise, "Really? Did he now? But that''s not right. He doesn''t tter people."

    "But he did, just now."

    "What did he say?" she asked curiously.

    "He said, I not only look like sunshine but am also warm like sunshine."

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head slowly, "But that''s a fact, isn''t it?" Xia Zhao nodded along with her making Hyson stare at her. She went over and pinched his cheek, "My sweet little boy! When did you start taking this as a tteringpliment? He is just telling the truth."

    "For the first time, I understand why Mum always says that you spoil me too much."

    Mu Chenyan chuckled in response.

    "Forget about it. Why did youe here? I didn''t even ask you this earlier."

    "Oh, I''m here to take you with me," said Mu Chenyan. "You know it''s Justin''s birthday party, your elder brother is inviting you. After all, we need Justin to meet the whole family. How can you be absent?"

    Hyson was stumped for a moment, he didn''t expect that this was the reason she was here. "Why? Do you have to tell Justin that he is taking my throne as the youngest of the family?"

    Mu Chenyan smiled at him and nodded, "We should let him know that he is the baby of our family but before him, we have this big baby too."

    "I understand why you''re here," said Hyson, and then he pointed at Xia Zhao, "But what''s up with him? Why is he here?"

    Mu Chenyan also looked at Xia Zhao and took a moment before saying, "I don''t know. He had been following me around for a while and won''t go away."

    "You told me to just follow you," reminded Xia Zhao.

    "I said thatst week," she retorted.

    "Then tell me to unfollow and I''ll stop following you around."

    Hyson pursed his lips as he stared at the two of them and then burst outughing, "I didn''t know before today that follow and unfollow works this way too. Interesting. Very interesting."

    "Zhao," called out Mu Chenyan.

    "Yes, Yan Zi."

    "Stop talking."

    Xia Zhao nodded and just sat there silently.

    "Wow, so obedient."

    "He is only obedient in the day," sneered Mu Chenyan.

    Hyson coughed, "Yanyan, I am pretty sure I don''t need to know this."

    Mu Chenyan realized what she said and then looked at Hyson''s expression before shaking her head, "That''s not what I meant. What nonsense are you thinking about? I really didn''t mean it like that."

    "Okay. Why are you getting so excited? I didn''t say anything," said Hyson.

    "Wow! You''re so perfunctory right now."

    Hyson grinned in response.

    Mu Chenyan shook her head, "Forget it. Get up and get ready. We are leaving."

    "Right now?" asked Hyson.

    "Yeah."

    "But I have a scene. Besides, I really am busy that''s why I said I don''t have time toe."

    "No excuses, Fai. I already talked to your director and even got a vacation for you. You can leave with us."

    Hyson pointed at his clothes, "I got ready for this scene. Can''t we wait for a while?"

    Mu Chenyan looked at her watch and thought about it before saying, "Then how about it, you have about 2 hours. I need to collect something from the antique market. I''ll be back in about 2 hours at most and you better be ready by then. Are we clear?"

    "Why are you going there?" asked Hyson.

    "I have something to check there," answered Mu Chenyan. "It''s not that I can''t exin the matter to you, it''s not confirmed yet. If it is confirmed, I''ll let you know in detail."

    Hyson shrugged, "Fine. You can do your thing. I''ll be done in 2 hours."

    "That''s great," said Mu Chenyan. "Zhao, let''s go!"

    After seeing her leaving so happily with Xia Zhao, Hyson was even more certain that this was the man for her. Because she was really happy around him. *Ding!*

    Hyson took out his phone to see the message.

    Mum: "I thought you weren''ting?"

    Hyson bit his lip and shook his head as he replied, "You sent someone I couldn''t say no to."

    Mum: "Son, I''d feel sad if you say it like that. You had no problem saying no to your own mother."

    Hyson scratched his brow and replied, "It''s not like you don''t know why I am like this."

    Mum: "Forget it. Since it''s Chenyan, I''ll let it go. I''m just happy that you''reing. What do you wanna eat? I''ll make it for you."

    Hyson: "Don''t tire yourself. I''m fine with anything."

    Yue Yue looked at this response for a long time with a strange expression not knowing how to respond to it. Since when did her demanding son be so easy to talk to? If she usually asked what he wanted, he''d either say send a whole list or say that he wanted Mu Chenyan to make his favorite dishes. This time, he just said he was find with anything which was so out of the ordinary.

    Hyson put down his phone and looked at his reflection in the mirror. He held his face with his hands and made faces at himself. "From which angle am I so easy to read?" He wondered out loud. He was really curious if he was really that easy to read. If that was true than all his efforts after all these years were really pointless no?

    He thought he did a good job hiding all his emotions, fears, and everything he was. But more and more people had started to see. What went wrong? Were his skills detrioting or something now?

 Chapter 1271 Dictate

    Chapter 1271 Dictate

    One might think that since the Xiang family found Justin, they''d hold a grand birthday party to announce to the whole world but things were not like that in reality. In fact, Xiang Weimin''s original intention was to do big things but while nning the party he changed his mind. He knew Justin wouldn''t befortable with it. No, it''s right to say no one will befortable with it. From Grandfather Xiang to Raelle, no one liked going to socializing events. Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin didn''t have any problems with big crowds since they practically lived with a bunch of men in the barracks but the rest of the family liked the warm and cozy atmosphere.

    Apart from that, this was the time when he decided to tell Justin about his identity and he felt like he first needed to talk to his son before announcing to the whole world. Anyway, Justin would be morefortable with people he was familiar with rather than seeing so many unfamiliar faces.

    So, this birthday party was held in the backyard of the Xiang Manor. There wasn''t any fancy decoration arranged either. The balloons were in silver, blue, and ck colors. Since Justin didn''t have any friends, there weren''t any kids games or activities arranged.

    "I thought you''d do something big," said Raelle. "Isn''t this too simple?"

    Xiang Weimin looked at his sister and asked, "If it was your birthday, would you like something fancy and grand, or what''s right in front of you?"

    "I am a simple person. I am okay with simple things in life."

    "Then what makes you think that my son will like something grand? I don''t want him to hide in a corner at his own birthday party. I want to give him a memorable birthday but who stiptes that you have to do something fancy to make it memorable?"

    "Okay, I have nothing to say about that. But it''s a kid''s birthday. Everything you arranged is for adults."

    "Justin is your nephew. He doesn''t have friends either."

    "I have friends," said Raelle.

    "Yeah, right."

    "Hey! What was that? What kind of tone is that?" "Have fun, Raelle!"

    Raelle stared at his back and muttered, "Fun? I never even had fun on my own birthday. What made him think I''d have fun here?"

    "Wifey! What are you muttering to yourself?" asked Shui Xian as he came to her side. "That Lieutenant just implied I have no friends. As if Hyson and Cloe aren''t counted at all." "Then you should have reminded him that he doesn''t have friends either. He is in a worse situation than you."

    "Yeah and then he''d tell me how he hasrades in arms who are more like brothers who have walked out of the rain of bullets and shed blood together. It''s beyond friendship and I can''tprehend the profoundness of that rtionship."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips before saying, "Well, he isn''t wrong about that too."

    "What? You also think I can''tprehend it?"

    "You can''t," he told her. "You know it too. After all, you haven''t experienced that kind of friendship. So, there is no point in trying to dwell on this."

    Raelle didn''t continue this topic since she was still very rational and knew that he was right. So, why waste time on it? She looked around and asked, "Why is Soren here with his family? I don''t think he is acquainted with Weimin, is he?"

    "No, he isn''t," replied Shui Xian. "You''re not seeing the point." Then he held her face and made her look elsewhere. And that''s when Raelle saw how Xena and Sammy ran to Justin''s side and pulled him along to y. There was finally theughter of kids at this birthday party. "You see, the real invitees are those two."

    "Justin seems familiar with them," said Raelle.

    "They met at our engagement party," told Shui Xian. "And because of Xena''s liveliness and Sammy''s cleverness, they quickly got familiar with Justin and pulled him out of his shyness."

    "Hmm... I guess Justin needs someone like them in his life to integrate into this human society."

    "Yes, he does," said Shui Xian. "He can''t stay locked up in the castle like his aunt did."

    "Are you talking about me?"

    "There is no one else in this ce who has lived in a castle, sweetheart."

    "True," said Raelle. "But do you think it''s better to send Justin to Kindergarten or make him skip a grade or two and send him to the same grade as Xena and Sammy? The twins certainly would be able to take better care of him even if he''d be the youngest in the ss."

    "Do you think that''s alright?"

    "I think it''s better than him being lonely," stated Raelle. "Let''s not forget that not everyone can get close to Justin. He is just as defensive as I once was. And if he continued with this attitude, he''d be a loner. So, it''s better to just be with people who he is familiar with and isfortable with too."

    Shui Xian looked towards the three kids ying together. Xena was talking animatedly with a huge smile on her face while her brother, Sammy teased her and won''t let her tell her story. Meanwhile, Justin was the most silent one but, you could still find a hint of joy between his brows. It seemed Raelle wasn''t wrong. He sighed and said, "But we can''t make this decision for him. He isn''t our son. You gotta have to talk to your brother regarding this. And you''ll have to talk to Tang Hebe too. In fact, it''s better to just share your opinion and let them decide for themselves. Unless people say you are trying to dictate your nephew''s life."

    "Okay, I''ll just put forward my suggestion. The decision is obviously up to them."

    Shui Xian touched her head saying, "Aiyo, my wife has started to worry about people. What a change. But I suddenly don''t like this change. Whhy is that so?"

    "Because you''re stingy," came a discordant voice from behind the two of them.

 Chapter 1272 Poisonous

    Chapter 1272 Poisonous

    Shui Xian didn''t even look behind him as he replied, "And what do you have to say about yourself, Fai?"

    "Me?" Hyson pointed at himself as he came over to stand in front of them. "I am the most generous person around."

    "Generous?" repeated Shui Xian with a strange expression. "Do you want me to remind you of our very first dinner together where Raelle introduced us to each other? You showed your generosity very well there."

    Hyson pursed his lips and pretended to be amnesiac, "What are you talking about Xian Ge? Why can''t I recall it?"

    Shui Xian snickered, "I know you''re getting better at acting but don''t use it in front of me. Between you and I, it''s hard to say who is stingier."

    Hyson rubbed the nape of his neck and then shrugged nonchntly. "Ellie, my darling, how are you?"

    "You''ve gained weight," was Raelle''s response which was like an arrow straight to Hyson''s heart.

    "How can you say that? I am trying to lose weight for my role. I soon have to look like a malnourished and haggard guy. I can''t gain weight at this point or I''ll dy things."

    "So, you won''t be eating the caketer?"

    Hyson was stumped, "No! I have to eat it!"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "So much for your conviction."

    "Xian Ge, you''ve changed."

    "You''ve said that before."

    "I want to repeat it. So what? What are you gonna do about that?"

    "Why are you arguing with my husband?" asked Raelle.

    "Ellie?" Hyson gave her an aggrieved look.

    "Husband, don''t argue with him too."

    "Okay."

    "But on a serious note, you should be careful with the cake," said Shui Xian.

    "Why?" asked Hyson curiously.

    "Because your brother baked it himself."

    Hyson''s eyes widened, "Weimin Ge knows how to bake a cake?"

    "Not until now," said Raelle. "He wanted to do something special for his son but out of all the things others suggested, he felt like it''ll be more intimate and heartfelt if he baked the cake himself. Mind you, he is someone who is good at calctions but how good he is at baking is up for a debate considering all the cakes he baked in the past week were..."

    "Weird," Shui Xian finished the sentence for her. "Weird?"

    "Yeah. For the first day, he even made a salty cake. I had such high expectations and almost vomited my dinner after taking a bite."

    "Pfft!" Hyson burst outughing when he heard that. "Serves you right for being greedy."

    "If you''re here, you won''t be any different," said Shui Xian.

    "No way. I am such a sensible guy."

    "Who said that?"

    Hyson pointed towards Xia Zhao who sat with Grandfather Xiang and said, "He said it just yesterday."

    Shui Xian followed his gaze and looked at Xia Zhao. He raised his brow and asked, "Do you think he made a mistake?"

    "Ge, you can''t do this to me. Are you burning the bridges after crossing? Just because Raelle is deep in love with you and you don''t need me anymore to learn about her? How can you be so mean?"

    Shui Xian rubbed his head, "You canck anything in this world except your dramatic behavior." He hugged his shoulder and asked, "So, how was your talk with Mr. Xia?"

    "Interesting," replied Hyson.

    "What''s your impression of him?"

    "He seemed like a mysterious person and profound but once you bring up Yanyan, he bes very normal and approachable."

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "Indeed, your eyes are as poisonous as your tongue."

    "Ge?!"

    Shui Xian chuckled, "That was apliment."

    "How so?"

    "You see through everything. Isn''t that having poisonous eyes?"

    "Then his are even more poisonous," Hyson was very unconvinced.

    "I can''t refute that too. But I can just say that runs in their bloodline." Shui Xian patted his back, "I''m proud of you for holding your ground and not getting intimidated in front of Mr. Xia. That''s the spirit."

    "It isn''t easy, even if he holds back in consideration of Yanyan, there is still a low aura around him that is undeniable. It''s just that I''m also Yue Fai. What kind of storm hasn''t I faced? How can this intimidation work on me? I never even caved when Ellie went into a rage."

    Raelle stood beside them just listening to them chatting like there was no one around and found it actually quite interesting. She didn''t feel left out at all. Neither did she want to get between their conversation.

    "Yes, yes! You''re a brave soldier. We have already established that," Shui Xian encouraged him without any scruples making Raelle give him a look. She was wondering how her husband always managed to say something like this to Hyson which would work like fuel to fire. See? Even now, with thispliment, Hyson''s chest puffed up proudly and he said, "You''re no worse, Ge. You''re even better. You managed to make the silent storm fall in love with you so deeply. I respect you!"

    "I''ll take thepliment," said Shui Xian humbly.

    Raelle almost rolled her eyes at the two of them.

    "By the way, Ge, what did you buy for Justin? You know, the birthday gift? I was so confused that I almost lost half of my hair just picking up a gift. First, I have no experience giving gifts to kids. Second, this kid is Justin who happened to have inherited all the bad qualities of his aunt Raelle. It''s too tough. Too tough for people like us."

    "Thankfully, I had thepany of Raelle to help," said Shui Xian with a faint hint of showing off and Hyson was really irked by that look.

    Hyson made a face and took a deep breath to calm himself down. There was no point in dwelling over these unhappy things right now. "Right, you guys had your pre-wedding beach photoshoot the other day, right?"

    "Yeah," answered Shui Xian with a big smile that couldn''t even hide his happiness.

    Hyson didn''t say anything to ruin his mood right now, "When are you getting the photos? I wanna be the first one to see."

    "Why?" asked Raelle.

    "Because I''ll help you choose the ones you can use for the wedding ceremony," said Hyson.

 Chapter 1273 Stop Eating Meat

    Chapter 1273 Stop Eating Meat

    "And why would we need your help?" asked Raelle.

    "Because bestie, you ain''t helping anyway," retorted Hyson innocently. Receiving Raelle''s look, he cleared his throat and added, "Don''t get me wrong but I am not lying either. You are not helpful at all. And if I can help with such a tiny thing, I''d be more than happy to do so. Besides, no one is letting me do anything. All the wedding matters are in Yanyan and Xian Ge''s hands. I feel left out."

    "You focus on work," said Shui Xian. "I can manage things. And if I do need some help, I''ll look for you. But I think you have a good suggestion. With my brain, I''d want to choose all the photos, so it''s better to listen to your opinion too."

    "It''s difficult to make a choice everything looks good," said Hyson.

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "Indeed, and with Raelle in the pictures, I don''t think I''d able to dislike any picture at all."

    "Do you both have a lot of free time on hand?" asked Raelle. "It''s Justin''s birthday. Stop talking about our wedding preparations."

    "I don''t know how these two things sh with each other. If we were Justin''s age, we could still go and y with him but we can''t. And we don''t have children to talk about too. So, we can just talk about other things which we are interested in. If you''re not interested, cover your ears or go away."

    Raelle pointed at herself, "Hyson, did you just tell me to go away?"

    "Yes!"

    Raelle gave the two of them a look and said, "Fine, I''ll go away then." With that, she walked away.

    "You really dare to say whatever is on your mind to her, eh?" "Why can''t I? I can say and do whatever I feel like it. How is this anything new, Xian Ge?"

    "It''s nothing new for real. But it''s odd that without arguing, Raelle went away."

    Hyson paused and had a thoughtful look on his face, "Right. She didn''t even bother to argue. That''s odd."

    "She doesn''t bother with a lot of things these days," said Shui Xian. "It might just be me, but I feel like she is developing a Buddhist personality all of a sudden."

    "Oh, is she nning to be a monk? That''s impossible, she can''t stop eating meat after getting the taste of it," said Hyson suggestively.

    Shui Xian gave him a hard look, "You should really get your mind out of the gutter."

    "Am I wrong?"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "No, you''re not wrong." He looked at someone and bumped his arm, "Your father is over there."

    Hyson gave a casual nce and didn''t take it heart, "What can I do about that?"

    "You don''t take him seriously at all."

    "Isn''t that obvious?"

    "But it''s different now. He is trying to woo your mum."

    "It''s still the same to me. Whether they get together or not, my attitude won''t change towards him."

    "You''re very consistent with your ideas,"mented Shui Xian.

    "Is it too heartless of me to say that epting a godfather is easier than a father?"

    Shui Xian was slightly taken aback when he heard that and didn''t answer immediately. He had to evaluate the situation from Hyson''s point of view and when he did that, he realized that Zhai Kuijun was like an open wound in Hyson''s life, and even if he came back into his life, it wouldn''t fill the void that had existed in Hyson''s life.

    But on the other hand, it''s different for the godfather, Xia Zhao. It''s more like getting to know a new friend who is easy to talk to and is also very knowledgeable. Besides, since there aren''t many emotions involved, it''s easier for Hyson to ept a godfather than a father who has been absent for years.

    "What are you looking at, Ge?"

    "Nothing," replied Shui Xian.

    "You didn''t answer me."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips before answering honestly, "I can''t call you heartless when I don''t understand many things. Maybe it''s easier for me to forgive and forget considering how I know that Uncle Kuijun had never known about your existence at all and technically, he isn''t at fault. But that''s me as a bystander. It''s different for you. You had to grow up in an environment where you''re called fatherless. Those wounds left by people''s words aren''t so easily healed or forgotten for that matter. You do what you feel like. Stop pondering over it once you have made your decision."

    "Right? I should stop doubting my own decision and stop looking for others'' opinions."

    "Yes, you should," agreed Shui Xian. "It''s your life, live it on your terms. At least, learn to live it on your terms. I feel like the only thing you have ever done following your heart was running after Raelle like an obsession."

    "How did you know?"

    "Shouldn''t I know that by now?" asked Shui Xian.

    Hyson stopped talking when he heard that. "Ge..."

    "Hm?"

    "How are you feeling?"

    "Why are you asking that out of nowhere?" asked Shui Xian strangely.

    "Because..." Hyson stopped and didn''t know how to continue right now. He really didn''t want to bring up this topic.

    Shui Xian seemed to have read through his hesitation and patted his shoulder, "I''m fine. At least, I can express my sadness. You should be more worried about Raelle right now. She hadn''t been fine since we came."

    Hyson looked at the three kids who were ying happily with balls and feltplicated. It''d be weird if Raelle didn''t feel okay aftering here to see this lively scene. Wouldn''t it only remind her of the child she lost? How could someone like forget that child so easily? "There are a lot of people to worry about her. I feel like I should be worried about you right now."

    "Why? Do you think I''ll start crying here?"

    "I won''tugh at you even if you cried right now. In fact, I might lend you my shoulder."

    Shui Xian extended his hand and patted his head saying, "Thank you for being so considerate."

 Chapter 1274 Dont Say

    Chapter 1274 Don''t Say

    Raelle walked away from Shui Xian and Hyson silently because she really didn''t feel like listening to them or talking for that matter. She just wanted to sit somewhere in silence. So, she went to find a corner to sit in.

    But she was still Raelle Xiang, no matter how much she tried to be inconspicuous, how could she be ignored? She was always the dazzling existence that made people turn and notice her even in a huge crowd. And right now, the people around her were some of the closest people in her life and their attention was always on her.

    However, they still pretended like they didn''t notice anything. They didn''t notice her low mood, they didn''t notice her intention to hide, they didn''t notice her emotional struggle, and all in all, they didn''t notice her at all and went about their business.

    Raelle sat down in a corner and her eyes fell on the flower nts beside her. She looked at a bud and fell into a daze. Her lost child was just like this flower bud which never got the chance to bloom. It withered before she could even nurture it at all.

    Suddenly, a small hand extended a bunch of pretty pink Azaleas in front of her. She didn''t have to look to know who this hand belonged to. There was a little gardener in this family whose love for flowers was unmatched.

    "Are these for me, Justin?"

    "Yes," answered Justin in his sweet voice. "Do you like it?"

    "Hmmm..." Raelle hummed in response. "They look pretty. But what''s the intention?"

    "Pink Azaleas are said to bring good luck and positivity. I wish you good luck."

    "Oh? It''s your birthday, why are you wishing me good luck?"

    "Why? I can''t do that?"

    Raelle thought about it before saying, "It seems there is nothing wrong with this."

    Justin smiled to hear that and added, "Then it''s good."

    "Weren''t you having fun with your friends over there? Why did youe over?" asked Raelle.

    "I saw you sitting alone, so I took a chance toe over."

    "Do I look very pitiful and lonely?"

    "No," answered Justin. "You look sad."

    "Do I now? I didn''t know I was even capable of expressing sadness."

    "Humans can''t often tell what they are really capable of."

    "Here you go talking big. Use your small brain a little less for you and grow slowly. It''s not fun to grow up too fast."

    "It isn''t?"

    "Nope. I can tell from experience. So, I wish that you grow slowly, safely, happily, and lovely."

    "I''ll try my best."

    Raelle tapped his forehead with the tip of her finger and said, "Now, I got your flowers and your wish. You need to go over there and y with friends. It''s not fun being alone either. Although both of them are a couple of years older than you, it doesn''t matter. Make some good friends, okay?"

    "Okay. I like them both."

    "I can tell," said Raelle.

    Justin turned to leave and stopped to ask, "Are you feeling better?"

    "I am. Thank you for the flowers."

    Justin grinned showing his milk teeth and then ran away.

    Raelle watched him leave before her attention fell on the flowers in her hands. She thought of finding a vase for these flowers. It''d be a shame if they withered too early.

    "I''m almost jealous."

    "What should I do about your jealousy?" asked Raelle without looking at Xiang Wai.

    "That''s my nephew too. He never gave me flowers or such a sweet smile."

    "Kids are very sensitive to others'' emotions. They can tell who is good and who is evil."

    Xiang Wai''s lips twitched, "I''m evil?"

    "You''re not good either."

    "So are you!"

    "But I do a good job at hiding my evil side."

    "No, you don''t," retorted Xiang Wai.

    "Oh? Then I must be beautiful."

    Xiang Wai gritted her teeth, "You? You really like to say whatever you want, right? But do you have to hit my heart so hard?"

    "Is it injured?"

    "What?"

    "Your fragile heart?"

    Xiang Wai said, "If it was so fragile, you wouldn''t let me live until now."

    "Technically, I didn''t do anything. I am just sitting here. Did I shoot the arrow from here? No, came in front of my arrow on your own."

    "Wow! I''m speechless."

    "No surprise there. You were never good with words anyway."

    Xiang Wai sighed, "It''s tiring being your sister."

    "What if I say the same thing?"

    "Huh? How is it tiring with me around? It''s not possible. I am so easy to get along with. I''m so cute and so nice."

    "So, all the problems lie with me?"

    "I didn''t say that."

    "But you implied that," said Raelle.

    "Wait! This is not why I''m here."

    "What are you here for then, Major? Why don''t you tell me?"

    "Oh, it''s nothing. I just saw my nephew being all cute and couldn''t hold myself back froming here."

    "And being sour."

    "Yes," epted Xiang Wai. "I''m feeling sour. But can you me me? No, you can''t."

    "I won''t me you. I don''t like ming people anyway."

    "True. You don''t like doing a lot of things."

    "I don''t like talking to you either but here we are."

    "If you want me to get lost, just say so, sis."

    "I didn''t say it. But if you understand it like that, that''s entirely up to you."

    "Can you share a flower with me?" asked Raelle.

    "Why? I need good luck too," replied Xiang Wai.

    "You do, don''t you?"

    "Of course, I do. I am about to propose. I need good luck."

    "I don''t think so. Yanjun must be more eager to say yes than you think so."

    Xiang Wai went silent when she heard that. She didn''t know how eager he was but she knew that this sister was stingy. Won''t even share one flower with her. Not even one. What a shame!

    As she was about to walk away, Raelle held her hand which startled Xiang Wai for a moment. Then a flower was slowly ced in her hand as Raelle said, "Don''t say anything and just leave."

 Chapter 1275 Burn Of Temper

    Chapter 1275 Burn Of Temper

    Following Raelle''s words, Xiang Wai didn''t say a word and just silently left with a foolish smile on her face. She stared at the flower in her hand in disbelief but even more than that what shocked her was that Raelle took the initiative to hold her hand. This shock was too much for Xiang Wai.

    She couldn''t find east, west, south, or north at the moment. It was even difficult to tell what was her own name right now. Zhai Yanjun snapped his fingers in front of her eyes, "Earth to Wai!"

    Xiang Wai''s eyes focused on him and she asked, "Huh? What? What happened?"

    "I should ask you. Did you lose your soul?"

    "Not yet, but I think if this happened once more, I might really lose my soul," replied Xiang Wai seriously.

    "Oh? What really happened?" asked Zhai Yanjun curiously. "My sister actually held my hand," said Xiang Wai. "Can you believe it? Raelle Xiang held my hand and even shared her good luck with me."

    Zhai Yanjun raised his brows when he heard that. "She did?"

    "She did!"

    "Wow! That''s really a shocker."

    "Isn''t it? I''m still in disbelief," said Xiang Wai. "I couldn''t even react when she held my hand. It felt so unreal."

    "You gotta keep your excitement in check," said Zhai Yanjun. "I can''t help it." Xiang Wai took deep breaths to really calm herself down and not get too excited over this or she might seem like a fool to everyone. Thinking of something, she looked at Zhai Yanjun, "Wait! When did youe?"

    Zhai Yanjun gave her a look, "I can''t believe it." He shook his head at her, "I came when you were wandering around in a daze with a foolish smile on your face."

    Xiang Wai gave him a toothy grin to hide her embarrassment, "Sorry, I didn''t notice."

    "It''s alright," Zhai Yanjun was very generous about this. It''s not like he didn''t know how much Xiang Wai to be epted by Raelle. She was even willing to be a smaller person in front of Raelle as long as it meant that Raelle would give her a second nce.

    And he knew why she was doing it too. Deep in her heart, she always felt guilty for ignoring the existence of Raelle''s presence. Not only that, she was guilty of actually ming Raelle for so long just because of her own problems. So, when she got to know Raelle, she always wanted to do something for her. However, there was hardly anything she could do for Raelle. After all, Raelle was a capable person on her own and even if she wasn''t, there were plenty of people who were ready to offer their life to her. It wasn''t Xiang Wai''s turn.

    "By the way, why did Raelle share her good luck with you?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    Xiang Wai was about to blurt out but held back at thest moment. "Oh, you don''t need to know about that."

    "Why? Why can''t I know?"

    "Yanjun!"

    "Yes?"

    "No questions."

    Zhai Yanjun was very unconvinced but he didn''t want to argue with his girlfriend either so he nodded in agreement reluctantly, "Fine. I won''t ask questions." He paused before saying, "How about we go out on a date after this?"

    "No," said Xiang Wai.

    "Why?"

    "Did you forget? We are going to our hometown. Originally, we nned to leave tomorrow but Grandpa wanted to go today. So, we all decided to leave at night. Tomorrow, we''ll go to see Grandma and introduce her to all the new members of our family."

    Zhai Yanjun nodded in understanding, "So, that''s how it is. It means we can only spend this time together. When will you guys be back?"

    "I''lle to see you when wee back," answered Xiang Wai. "If you are so reluctant to let me go, you cane with me. I''ll take the chance to introduce you to my grandma too."

    "I''d love to but I really can''t take time off these days. It''s a coincidence that today is my day off so I got to join you at this birthday party."

    Xiang Wai sighed, "Fine. You get busy then. Forget it. We''ll let you meet Grandma another time."

    "Right. Justin should be the most important person this time."

    "Actually..."

    "What?" asked Zhai Yanjun.

    "Technically speaking, all three of us siblings never went to see Grandma after her death. Raelle didn''t go because Grandpa didn''t allow her to and Ge and I were just..." She didn''t know what to say. She was an irresponsible person and someone who wrongly med people. But not going to see her Grandma for so many years was something she couldn''t find any excuse for.

    Just because of her maternal Grandma''s disgusting behavior, she slowly started to forget the kindness and warmth of her paternal Grandma. She turned into a very unlikable person. Now that she thought about it, she wondered how could someone even like a selfish person like her. She could only see her own problems and pain and nothing else beyond that.

    She knew she hurt too many people because of these habits of hers. Including her own mother, her father, and even her own brother who always took the burn of her temper firsthand but never left her alone. Only recently, the memories of her paternal Grandma got a little clear again in her mind and that''s when she realized what she had missed.

    Zhai Yanjun held her hand in his own, "I know. You don''t have to exin it to me. It''ll be a very important day tomorrow then. Your grandma will get to see all her grandchildren together."

    Xiang Wai nodded her head, "Although I don''t know how to face her, I''d still love to go." She sighed to herself and said, "You haven''t met the birthday boy yet, right? Come, I''ll take you to see him."

    "Okay," agreed Zhai Yanjun and followed her. He squeezed her hand and intertwined their fingers to hold her tightly.

 Chapter 1276 We Are Busy

    Chapter 1276 We Are Busy

    *Tap! Tap!*

    Raelle''s attention shifted when she heard someone tapping the surface of the table beside her. She looked over and said, "Hello, Professor!"

    "Hello, Raelle!" said Song Xin''ai.

    "How are you, Professor?" asked Raelle.

    "I''m good! How about you?"

    "What does it look like?"

    "It''s better if I don''t answer that," said Song Xin''ai. "Do you mind if I sit with you here?"

    Raelle gave her a look, "Are you sure? You want to leave all these people and sit with me?"

    "Yes," answered Song Xin''ai.

    "Okay then. Please, have a seat."

    "Thank you," said Song Xin''ai as she sat down with her. She looked at the bunch of pink Azaleas in her hand and said, "You don''t look like someone who likes flowers."

    "Why would you assume that?"

    "Because I don''t think you are very fond of delicate things."

    "I have no problem with flowers. They are delicate, they wither, they are demanding too. They need too much care to grow but still, I don''t seem to dislike them."

    "Why?"

    "Aren''t you clear about that? It''s easy to see how short and fragile life is when you''re looking at these flowers blooming and withering away within a short period of time."

    Song Xin''ai pursed her lips and stayed silent for a while.

    "Have you heard?" asked Raelle.

    "What?"

    "We are going to see Grandma tomorrow. And I''m talking about my paternal Grandma."

    "There is no need for you to clear that up for me. You only have a paternal Grandma, no one can change that as I said before if you don''t have a mother like me. There is no need for a maternal Grandmother to exist too."

    "Would it have been different if you were this decisive in life back then?"

    "What do you think?" asked Song Xin''ai.

    "I don''t know. I don''t like thinking about the what-ifs of life. They make life a lot more difficult andplicated."

    "True. So, we should all stick with the choices we made and regrets we have."

    "What is your regret, Professor?"

    "That growing up, I was never there to tell you that your existence wasn''t a mistake for me or your father."

    Raelle paused when she heard that and looked into her eyes.

    Song Xin''ai gave her a gentle smile as she continued, "Whether it''s Weimin, Wai, or you, all of you came to this world because of love. There was no mistake or ident. There was no other purpose of your existence too. Raelle, I''d like to assure you that Mom had a lot of expectations when she learned of your existence. I was really happy too. This happiness was short-lived but not because of you. None of that was your fault. It never will be. Only cowards who can''t face their own mistakes me their children for their regrets. I might be a coward but I haven''t stooped low enough to me you for anything. I know how it feels to take the me when you haven''t done anything wrong."

    "What is your purpose in telling me all this?" asked Raelle.

    "No purpose," said Song Xin''ai. "I just want you to know somethings aren''t in our hands. Yes, I know you are clear about it all. But I''d still like to say it all to you all over again. I know what you''re thinking right now. I know what''s making you feel sad. I know you''re feeling a void inside of you right now thinking about your child, but I''d like to remind you that you did nothing wrong. Yes, you didn''t get to take care of your child or protect him but it''s still not your fault."

    "I thought no one would say it to my face today. But then again, if there is one person who would not shy away, it''d have to be you," said Raelle.

    "Yes, I like to be the bad guy," smiled Song Xin''ai.

    "Thank you for saying all that. I''m okay. I just keep thinking about what it''d be like if that little child was still with us. Just seeing those kids makes me wonder. I can''t help it. I''d like not to think about it but I really can''t help it. It''s like my own thoughts are not under my control today."

    "It''s not always easy to be in control of your thoughts," said Song Xin''ai.

    "Right? It''s not easy. I never realized this before."

    "It''s hard for you to believe it because you''re someone who always had things under control. Now that something is not in control, it''ll take some time for you toe to terms with it."

    "It''s not the first time," said Raelle. "First I couldn''t have control over my heart when I fell in love with Xian. Now, I can''t control my mind. Am I slowly gonna lose all control over my whole existence?"

    "I don''t think we''ll go that far," said Song Xin''ai. "Don''t think so much. I''d suggest you to not spend so much time alone today. It''ll give your mind a chance to pull you into the spiral. And it''ll be even more difficult toe out of it."

    "Is that why you came to give mepany?"

    "I just wanted to talk to you," replied Song Xin''ai. "It''s not like we get a lot of chance to sit together to talk."

    "True. We are both busy people."

    "Yeah. We are busy." Song Xin''ai paused and then told her honestly, "And I would like to change that."

    Raelle gave her an inquisitive look, "Are you retiring early?"

    "How is it early? I''m so old already," replied Song Xin''ai. "I have enough gold on my name. I don''t need it anymore."

    "I don''t think you''ve been doing it for the gold though."

    Song Xin''ai gave her a look and smiled at her knowingly, "Yes, I love my work that''s why I was busy all my life. But I think I have done enough."

    "Have you?"

    "I didn''t get to spend time with my own kids. If possible, I''d like to see the growth of my grandchildren."

    "By grandchildren, you mean Justin?"

    "I''d like to add yours too in the list of my grandchildren."

    "I''d see about that."

 Chapter 1277 A Little Greed

    Chapter 1277 A Little Greed

    Raelle was silent for a while before saying, "You''re getting greedy now."

    "Yes," agreed Song Xin''ai. "Thest time I was greedy was when I proposed to your father. Today, I feel greedy again. But is it wrong?"

    Raelle shrugged, "Who knows? People say greed is a curse. I think that statement is up for debate. What would you say? Do you think it was a curse when you were greedy thest time?"

    "No," answered Song Xin''ai. "It gave me three beautiful children and it also brought me true happiness that I never knew before. Yes, in the end, it hurt too. But so what? I can''tin about that now, can I?"

    "That''s why said, it''s up for debate. For some, greed might not be a curse as most people think. But it still doesn''t mean one should be greedy in life."

    "Everything done in moderation is eptable. Once it passes a certain limit, everything can be a curse. Whether it''s wealth, love, fame, or even life."

    Raelle looked up at her, "Really? Then why do people want to be immortals?"

    "Wishful thinking,"mented Song Xin''ai. "Chasing after immortality is boring and pointless. Think about it, this short life is difficult enough what more if you have to prolong it? Wouldn''t it just keep getting worse and worse? It''ll be too boring to repeat the years and watch people around you die."

    "It seems we do think alike," said Raelle. "Have you thought about it carefully though? You have spent your entire life working. Are you willing to step out of theboratory now? I thought you researchers even wished to die inside yourbs."

    Song Xin''ai chuckled in response, "It''s lonely inside there. In fact, it has be too quiet as well. I feel like if I stayed inside that silence anymore, I might get consumed by it."

    "You''re not very honest," said Raelle.

    "Why do you say that?"

    "I heard you have been to the hospital a lot these days."

    Song Xin''ai pursed her lips, "It''s hard to hide things from you as always."

    "Are you dying?"

    "Woah! That''s harsh and too straightforward."

    "Do you want me to go around in circles? I don''t have time for that," said Raelle. "True. It''s like you to be so direct. But are you hoping for me to die?"

    "I have no such thoughts," answered Raelle. "I''m just asking to be prepared for what''s toe."

    "Then you rx. I''m not dying."

    "You sound very disappointed," Raelle pointed out.

    Song Xin''ai gave her a look, "Do I? Hmm... Maybe I was slightly disappointed when my reports came out all clear. Just a teeny tiny bit disappointed." She sighed and went on, "Anyway, this sudden illness was like a reminder that even if I''m alright this time, it might not be the same the next time. So, before it''s toote, I should be a little greedy and do what I really desire."

    "And that''s watching your grandchildren?"

    "I''d love to watch my kids too but they are adults now. And so not cute as well. That''s why I have to choose the next best thing."

    "I heard that parents who are strict with their own children be grandparents who end up spoiling their grandkids."

    Song Xin''ai smiled, "It''s not very wrong. I have seen it happening."

    "Really? Why did my Opa didn''t be like that?"

    "He is," said Song Xin''ai. "It''s all on you that you didn''t get spoiled otherwise, trust me, he indulged you the way he didn''t even indulge Chenyan back then."

    Raelle nodded in understanding. ying with the flowers she still held in her hands, she asked, "Would you like to visit my Grandma?"

    Song Xin''ai stiffened before she slowly rxed and shook her head, "I''d better not."

    "Are you scared of her? It''s not like she is gonna step out of her grave to scold you."

    "Yes, but I feel like she wouldn''t want to see me there. Besides, I don''t know how to face her."

    "So, you choose to avoid too?"

    "It''s better to hide sometimes. That''s all I can say for now."

    Raelle nodded her head and looked towards Xiang Weimin, "When are we gonna cut the cake?"

    "Are you in a hurry?"

    "No, I''m just purely curious because I don''t know what goes on at these birthday parties. Do you know?"

    "I have seen it but everyone has their own arrangements. So, I can''t make ament."

    "I feel like your son is dilly-dallying."

    "Right? I never knew he had this personality. Or maybe he has recently learned to dilly-dally. He wasn''t like this before."

    "Then who do you think is to me?"

    Song Xin''ai shrugged, "I guess fear again."

    "Fear? Again?"

    Song Xin''ai nodded as she pointed at Xiang Weimin, "You can tell he is nervous. He really gets nervous around his son."

    "Such a big guy is always nervous in front of his son who doesn''t even reach his waist."

    Song Xin''aiughed, "Yeah. But that only shows how high Justin''s position is in his heart."

    Both of them didn''t continue to talk but just sat there in silence. It wasn''t an ufortable silence either. It''s not like Raelle needed this silentpany but she didn''t refuse Song Xin''ai approach too. If not as a mother, she still was willing to talk to her as a person she was.

    Technically, if one overlooked the fact that she abandoned her own daughter, there wasn''t much to find fault with. Song Xin''ai as a person was still eptable to Raelle. More so because she was too simr to Raelle and their ideas and thoughts matched way too much.

    The others also noticed the situation between the mother and daughter but no one came up to disturb them at all. They went about their own business like there wasn''t anything wrong. Even Grandfather Xiang breathed a sigh of relief seeing that Raelle didn''t look as disturbed as earlier. It was a good change.

 Chapter 1278 Dad!

    Chapter 1278 Dad!

    Tang Hebe originally didn''t want toe to join in the fun. It was simply because she wanted to give Justin and Xiang Weimin a chance to spend this birthday together. But Xiang Weimin insisted on letting here. And when he said that Justin would feel ufortable without his mother on his birthday, she couldn''t refuse.

    Originally, she had her own reservations beforeing to the Xiang Manor but when she came, she realized that she didn''t have to be so restrained. This family didn''t even try to steal Justin from her when they really could. How could she fear this family? Even if every person in this family was a bit intimidating in their own way, it still won''t change the fact that they tried their best to make her feel at ease.

    She talked with Grandfather Xiang, Xiang Hulin, Song Xin''ai, and even Mu Chenyan, and all these people actually expressed their gratitude towards her for raising their family''s little kid for these years and giving him a warm home.

    She wasn''t expecting this reaction from them. But it made her feel a lot more rxed.

    "I think Mr. Xiang, you should just tell him the truth already," said Tang Hebe to Xiang Weimin who was still dawdling around.

    Xiang Weimin looked at her, "You think so?"

    "Of course," answered Tang Hebe. "How long are you gonna wait?"

    "He looks so happy," said Xiang Weimin.

    Tang Hebe agreed with that. Indeed, Justin looked very happy here. Even she was surprised by the way he was ying with the other two kids. It made her feel like it was the right choice not to run away with Justin. It''s not like she could ever run from this family but still, she had that thought for a fleeting moment.

    "So? Go and make him happier!"

    "Are you sure, he''d be happier and not shocked?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "I know my son. He is young but he is very sensible. He already likes you and he''d only be happier knowing that he has a father just like any other kid."

    Xiang Weimin took a deep breath and nodded before going over to the ce where the children were ying. He watched them ying for a while before calling out, "Justin!"

    "Yes!" "Can we have a moment?"

    Justin trotted up to his side with his small legs and looked up at him, "What is it?"

    Xiang Weimin looked at Xena and Sammy saying, "How about you guys y and I''ll just borrow your new friend for a little while, okay?"

    "Okay," agreed Xena and Sammy very obediently.

    Xiang Weimin smiled at them gently before he picked Justin into his arms and took him away. He took him away from everyone and brought him inside the house and ced him on the table while he sat on the chair making theme eye-to-eye with each other.

    "I have something very important to tell you about," said Xiang Weimin.

    Justin blinked his innocent eyes at him and nodded, "Okay. What is it?"

    "You know about your mom?" he asked.

    Justin nodded again, "I do. I have two mothers. One is named Chi Xirui and the other is Taang Hebe. One of them became a star to protect me and the other is always by my side to love me."

    Xiang Weimin ced his hand on his head and smiled at him, "Yes. That right. Then do you know about your dad?"

    Justin shook his head, "No. I don''t know. Mom said she doesn''t know either."

    "Then would you like to meet your dad?" asked Xiang Weimin nervously. Justin tilted his head slightly as if he was thinking hard about this question. It only made Xiang Weimin more nervous.

    "It''s not that your dad didn''t want you. He just didn''t know about you at all. He didn''t leave you alone. He truly didn''t know that he had a son until now. Your mother didn''t tell him anything. So, he had been in the dark all these years."

    Justin looked into his uneasy eyes and said, "Then does he know everything now?"

    "Yes, he does," answered Xiang Weimin. "He does and he is very sorry for leaving you alone for all these years. He is also very ashamed that he missed these years of your growth. But he promised that if you gave him a chance, he''d try to be the best dad possible. Even though he has no experience whatsoever. He does his best to protect you, love you, and care about you."

    "Dad!" called out Justin catching Xiang Weimin off guard. "When are you gonna get to the point? Are you that scared of me?"

    Xiang Weimin was left speechless. He stared at Justin in disbelief who had a look of an adult like he was really worried about his father''s declining IQ and it only made Xiang Weimin feel even more strange. He didn''t even know how to react right now. His son just called him dad out of nowhere really startling him.

    "What... What did you just call me?" asked Xiang Weimin as his voice trembled a little.

    "Dad!" answered Justin. "Why? Am I supposed to call Father? Daddy? Baba?"

    Xiang Weimin hugged this tiny human into his arms and said, "You can call whatever you want. It doesn''t matter at all." He kissed his face as he calmed himself down and asked the question on his mind right now, "How did you know I was talking about myself?"

    "You made it so obvious," said Justin. "I heard from a great person that observation is a key to solving mysteries. So, when you suddenly appeared and mom allowed me to spend time with you alone, it became a mystery worth pondering. After all, as long as I can remember, mom hardly even left me alone with the nanny because she was always nervous that something would go wrong. But she was always assured when I left with you. She even found ways to make me spend more time with you. Then came your

    unteral love for me. I don''t doubt that I''m cute and smart and a sensible kid but I don''t think you''re someone who would love and care about just any random kid."

 Chapter 1279 Is It Edible?

    Chapter 1279 Is It Edible?

    Xiang Weimin was left gaping at his son in utter shock. He was so small that Xiang Weimin could lift him with one hand but his intelligence was not to be underestimated. Maybe they all thought they were smarter than a kid but they shouldn''t have underestimated this small kid too.

    "Such a small brain is really capable of thinking about all these big things, eh?"

    Justin smiled at him, "I''m only small in size but I''m very smart."

    "Of course, you''re smart. After all, you''re my son."

    Justin''s smile vanished, "Was that apliment for me or yourself?"

    "What do you think?" asked Xiang Weimin teasingly. Justin refused to answer and turned his face away. Xiang Weimin lovingly pinched Justin''s face and asked, "So, what else did you figure out?"

    Justin''s attention was caught again and he answered excitedly, "I figured out that you and I look very simr and our eating habits, daily habits, and even likes and dislikes are oddly alike."

    "You figured all that in such a short time? Did I help bring a genius into this world?"

    Justin nodded, "I think so."

    Xiang Weiminughed out at his response. "Now tell me which great person told you to observe things?"

    "Pretty sister."

    "I knew it," said Xiang Weimin helplessly. "Of course, this great person would be Raelle. By the way, she is your aunt. You can''t call her a sister anymore."

    Justin made a face at that and Xiang Weimin suddenly realized that not only his son was more talkative then the first time they met but he was also a lot more expressive about his emotions too. Taking a pause, Xiang Weimin inquired, "So, do you like this dad?"

    Justin wrapped his arms around his neck and gave him a kiss on his face, "I like this dad very much."

    Xiang Weimin felt like he was gonna float with just thisment. "Okay, let''s talk about serious things," said Xiang Weimin.

    "Serious things?" asked Justin.

    Xiang Weimin hummed, "I just realized that I should stop treating you like a kid all the time. I can''t underestimate your intelligence and ability to understand things. So, you do know that the rtionship between your mom and I isn''t like what is normal for others'' parents, right?"

    "I know. You guys are not married."

    "Wow! My son even knows about marriage." He cleared his throat and went on, "Yes, we are not married and we have technically no friendship to speak of either. Our only connection is you."

    "I understand."

    "That means, we won''t be living together in a home like a family too."

    Justin pursed his lips before nodding, "Yes. I understand that too."

    "Are you okay with that? We''ll take turns taking care of you. You''ll spend some time with your mom and some time with me and my family. This family. Do you like this family? If you''re ufortable with them, you can tell me."

    "I like them. I like them all. They are all very nice."

    "They are?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "Yes, better than mom''s family." Justin covered his mouth as if he said something wrong. Seeing Xiang Weimin look, he said, "Sorry, I forgot. We can''t talk bad about someone behind their backs."

    Xiang Weimin rubbed his head, "It''s okay. Yes, it''s a bad habit to talk behind someone''s back but having your own opinion isn''t wrong. And since your like this family, you cane here anytime you want to. Don''t feel like a guest. This is your home and your family too."

    Justin''s innocent eyes stared back at Xiang Weimin. "Tomorrow, we want to take you on a trip."

    "Where?"

    "To our hometown. The ce where our Xiang family''s ancestral home is."

    "Is it a beautiful ce?"

    "Yes, in my memory it''s a very beautiful ce," answered Xiang Weimin. "Would you like to go?"

    "Go!"

    "Okay, we''ll go together then." Xiang Weimin picked up Justin again and said, "Let''s go now and cut your cake. I baked it myself for your birthday."

    "Is it edible?"

    Xiang Weimin gave him a look, "What? Are you doubting your father now?"

    "I''m just asking a question."

    "You should spend less time with Raelle."

    "No, can''t do. The world lits up whenever I see her."

    "Oh? Then what about me?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "You?" Justin thought about it seriously before answering, "You''re like a tall mountain."

    "Mountain?"

    "Yes. Mountains are a symbol of strength and resilience."

    "Is that so? Why didn''t I know?"

    "You should read more."

    "Son, are you already questioning your father''s intelligence? Don''t forget we have the same genes."

    "Yes, same genes. And it shows."

    Xiang Weimin chuckled and happily took his son out to cut the cake. As the stood in front of the table with the cake, Xiang Weimin happily pointed at the drawing on top, "See? I drew a dinosaur for you."

    "Is that dinosaur?" asked Justin in confusion.

    Xiang Weimin looked at his drawing which was hard to read but still insisted, "It''s a dinosaur. Why does it look like a dragon to you?"

    "No, I thought it was a rat."

    "Pfft!"

    Everyoneughed at hisment making Xiang Weimin scratched his nose in embarrassment. "Son, you can stop being so disgusted with your father."

    Justin patted his arm, "It''s okay, dad. We can''t be good everything."

    "Right? For now, we shouldn''t be worried about whether it''s a dragon or a dinosaur. The real worry is if this thing is really not gonna kill us all."

    Xiang Weimin red at Hyson who stuck out his tongue at him, "I am right, Weimin Ge. Don''t re at me like that."

    Xiang Weimin took a deep breath before saying, "It won''t kill you but I might end up beating you little brother if you continued like this." He turned to Justin and said, "Son, this is the bad uncle. Don''t pay attention to him."

    Hyson stared at him in disbelief, "You are messing with the wrong person."

    "Really? You''re gonna call your godmother? Go ahead, I''m not scared."

    Hyson snorted, "That''s old news. I have a new supporter." Xiang Weimin raised his brow at him while Hyson called out, "Godfather,  <pe here and tell him that he is messing with the wrong kid."

 Chapter 1280 Taking Time

    Chapter 1280 Taking Time

    Xia Zhao stepped out and stood with Hyson. He looked at Xiang Weimin and said, "It''s really not eptable. You should be nice to my son."

    Xiang Weimin was taken aback, "Uncle?"

    Xia Zhao shrugged, "I only have this son. I have to take his side."

    Hyson gave him a smug look as if he was really provoking him but it only made Xiang Weiminugh. On the other hand, Zhai Kuijun was hit very badly seeing Hyson being so close to his ''godfather'' while his real father was forgotten in a corner.

    Yue Yue noticed his emotions and held his hand, giving him aforting look with her eyes. Zhai Kuijun forced a smile back at her and decided to not take it to heart. Everything takes time and the rtionship between him and Hyson will take longer. He couldn''t be impatient at this stage and he couldn''t disheartened even more.

    Justin blew out the candles and cut the cake. He wanted to feed the first piece to his mom but considering that he wasn''t sure about the cake, he turned to Xiang Weimin first. "Ge, your son wants to check the cake on you first. Since you baked it, you should be the first one to test it too," joked Xiang Wai seeing through Justin''s intention.

    Justin blushed a little at being seen through but Xiang Weimin didn''t mind.

    "It''s okay. I''ll taste it for my son, there is no worry," said Xiang Weimin as he took a bite. He noticed how everyone observed his expression and found it funny. He suddenly had an evil thought but he knew his poor acting skills wouldn''t be able to support his evil idea. If Hyson had been at his ce, it would have worked. He swallowed the cake and said, "It''s a lot better than I expected. And it''s safe everyone. It''s safe."

    Everyoneughed hearing this. There wasughter around and the scene was really lively. Justin smiled brightly and really enjoyed himself. "Let''s take a group picture," suggested Hyson. "Why? First you give my son his gift before talking about other things," said Xiang Weimin.

    "Ge, don''t hold grudges. You only have one little brother like me. Go easy."

    "You should also go easy. I also have one son. You can''t talk bad about me in front of him."

    "When did I?" asked Hyson in surprise. "I''m very innocent in this case."

    Xiang Weimin shrugged, "Then you should say nicer things to my son about me."

    "I''ll try to think about what are your nice qualities."

    "What do you mean? You have to think about it first?"

    "Or else?"

    "Fai, what are Raelle''s nice qualities?"

    "She has nice qualities? When did that happen?" asked Hyson in shock. "Ge, you seem to have some wrong impression of your sister. She really has no good qualities to brag about. Ouch!"

    His words were cut off when his ear was pinched from behind and he looked at Shui Xian in disbelief.

    "Xian Ge?"

    "Husband, don''t let go," said Raelle.

    "I won''t," assured Shui Xian. Raelle stared at Hyson, "You have a lot to say today."

    "No, I always have a lot to say," said Hyson in response. "Then how about speaking less?"

    "No, can''t do. How will I live with so many words in my brain. I have to empty the space in my brain by speaking out the words."

    "You even have a brain?"

    "Haha!" Hysonughed so fakely at her question. "I do have a brain and it works better than you. Don''t underestimate it." He winced and added, "Can you ask your dear husband to let go? My ear is about toe off."

    "No," replied Raelle. "Not yet."

    "Oh my gosh! Why am I suffering here with this cruel person?"

    "You chose this cruel person for yourself. No one forced you back then."

    "I was blind for a moment."

    "Now, suffer for being blind for a moment," retorted Raelle.

    "Okay, okay, let him go. He is in pain," Xiang Weimin stepped in to save Hyson.

    "Tsk. You fell for it too easily," said Raelle. "Should I say Hyson''s acting is too good or you are too gullible?"

    "I think the credit goes to my acting," said Hyson shamelessly while he hid behind Xiang Weimin, away from the evil ws of Shui Xian and Raelle. "Xian Ge, don''t always do what she tells you to do. Have your own opinions."

    "If I followed my own opinion, I was gonna beat you for talking bad about my wife."

    "Oh, here goes another cruel person. Won''t your conscience hurt being so cruel to an innocent kid like me?"

    "Nope. It doesn''t hurt at all. I would have felt inner peace."

    Xiang Weimin shook his head at them and turned to Hyson, "Go and spend time with your nephew. You should introduce yourself properly to him. He is least familiar with you around here."

    Hyson nodded, "That''s right. How can he not know that he is my sessor?"

    "What?"

    "He took my baby throne. Doesn''t that make him my sessor?"

    Xiang Weimin was so helpless as he watched Hyson skipping over to Justin''s side. "This... I don''t know what to say about him."

    "It''s better not to say anything," suggested Raelle as she took Shui Xian away too.

    Meanwhile, Zhai Yanjun found time to talk to his father and asked, "So, how is your progress? Are you already with Ai? Or I have to wait longer?"

    "You''re more eager than me around here," said Zhai Kuijun.

    "Can you me me?" asked Zhai Yanjun. "I just feel like you''re taking too long."

    "Impatience isn''t good," said Zhai Kuijun. "So, I''m taking my time."

    "With your son too?" asked Zhai Yanjun. "Because certainly, it''s gonna take way too long with Fai." It''s not like he didn''t notice Hyson''s natural interaction with Xia Zhao but he seemed really polite and distant with Zhai Kuijun. For a moment, even he felt bad for his own father. But he really couldn''t do anything about this. Hyson didn''t even listen to him much and if he pushed Hyson, he might get pushed away too. It was better for him to worry about his own rtionship with his brother than sympathizing with his father. It wasn''t helpful anyway.

 Chapter 1281 Chew Me Up

    Chapter 1281 Chew Me Up

    "There really isn''t much I can do about that," sighed Zhai Kuijun. "I''m also very helpless regarding this matter but I don''t wanna push too hard. I did have this idea but I realized it could be counterproductive. I have to slowly invade into Fai''s life and let him get used to my presence. Because he is too used to my absence."

    Zhai Yanjun gave his father a strange look, "Dad, did you be wise all of a sudden?"

    Zhai Kuijun narrowed his eyes at his son unhappily, "Don''t think I won''t beat you."

    "I''ll hide behind my Ai, let''s see if you dare to touch me."

    Zhai Kuijun was slightly taken aback when he heard his elder son saying this and then he chuckled, "Are you learning this from your brother?"

    Zhai Yanjun nodded, "Why? I can''t do that?"

    "No, you certainly can," said Zhai Kuijun. "It''s good to see you this way. It makes you feel more alive."

    "Did I look like a walking dead before?"

    "No. But the rtionship between us was definitely quite lifeless."

    Zhai Yanjun was silent for a while before saying, "But can you me me for that? You never understood my feelings and thoughts. I never tried to understand your worries. So, it''d be a surprise if we were like normal father and son. You should be d that we managed to save this dying rtionship."

    "You''re right. I''m thankful," said Zhai Kuijun.

    Zhai Yanjun contemted for a while and hesitated before asking him, "Dad, have you heard from Momtely?"

    Zhai Kuijun frowned visibly at the mention of his ex-wife and replied, "No. I have no interest in what she is up totely."

    Zhai Yanjun nodded to himself and said, "Right."

    "Why? What happened?"

    "Nothing," replied Zhai Yanjun. "Are you hiding something from me?" asked Zhai Kuijun with a serious look. "Is she bothering you again?"

    "No," denied Zhai Yanjun.

    "Are you sure? You better not hide things from me this time. It''s your habit of hiding her shorings that we had to suffer for so many years."

    Zhai Yanjun pursed his lips, "Do you still me me for not telling you how she tortured me?"

    "Shouldn''t I? She tortured you physically and mentally but you kept giving into her connivance. She gaslighted you and you hid things from me just because she is your mother."

    "I did tell you."

    "When it was toote already," said Zhai Kuijun. "Anyway, I''m warning you. If you hid things from me anymore, I''ll really not let you go this time."

    "Dad..." Zhai Yanjun was a bit helpless. He checked the time and said, "Forget it. I don''t have that much time left. I''m gonna say bye to everyone and leave. I''ll see you again when I get the chance."

    "Take care of yourself," said Zhai Kuijun.

    "Don''t be so sentimental. We are just training daily. It''s not like I''m going to war. You didn''t even look this sentimental when I was stationed at the border."

    Zhai Kuijun hit his arm, "This is why I don''t show my concern for you. You alwaysugh it off."

    Zhai Yanjunughed at it, "I''m just trying to make you feel at ease. I''m doing great. So, you live your own life and stop worrying about me. I know children are like a debt to their parents but I assure you, I want you to stop worrying about this debt and focus on yourself."

    Zhai Kuijun nodded his head with a smile and patted his back.

    Zhai Yanjun went to find his brother before leaving and found him ying hide and seek with the kids. His lips twitched for a moment but then he epted this behavior calmly. What couldn''t he possibly not ept from Hyson? This seemed very normal.

    "Yo, brother! You seem to be having fun."

    Hyson looked at Zhai Yanjun and frowned. "What do you want now?"

    "I didn''t get to spend some time with you today. Am I not allowed to look for you? Why do you have to look so disgusted seeing me every time? I know you''re secretly very happy to see me."

    Hyson rolled his eyes at him and said, "Whatever floats your boat, Captain!"

    Zhai Yanjun smiled at him, "You can y with themter ande spend some time with me. We rarely get the chance to meet anyway. I''m leaving in a while again and you''ll also go back to the shoot. Who knows when we''ll see each other again."

    Hyson stared at him in silence for a while before he took a time out with the kids and went to Zhai Yanjun''s side. "Say whatever you want to say first."

    Zhai Yanjun ced his hand on Hyson''s head and asked, "How are you, little brother?"

    Hyson pushed his hand away, "Are we that close?"

    "We are," said Zhai Yanjun.

    "Are you shameless?"

    "Learning from you."

    Hyson paused and said, "Then learn good things from me."

    "Like your ability to coax people or your ability to change faces?"

    "You are making me seem like a scheming person now when I''m very innocent."

    "I won''tment on that," said Zhai Yanjun. "Tell me honestly, how are you?"

    "I''m good."

    "Why are you losing weight? Haven''t you been eating welltely?" Zhai Yanjun seemed distressed as he spoke and looked at Hyson. "Why don''t you take care of yourself better? Do you know how..."

    "Stop!" Hyson held up his hand to stop him from continuing. "You''re so wordy! I don''t wanna hear this nagging. Go away already."

    "Okay, okay. I won''t say it. Can''t you give your brother a smile?"

    "What will I get in return?"

    "What do you want? I''ll try to give anything you want as long as you want to."

    "Wow! You, Captain, are so easy to deceive. Be careful of someone chewing up your flesh and spitting your bones."

    "Only you''d think of chewing me up."

    "No way. If I did it, I won''t even spit out the bones," said Hyson.

    Zhai Yanjunughed at that and Hyson also pursed his lips to suppress hisughter.

 Chapter 1282 Keep Your Pace

    Chapter 1282 Keep Your Pace

    "Did Justin take it all in so easily?" asked Mu Chenyan to Xiang Weimin. She didn''t think it would go so easily. There was so much thunder or rain and it passed without a sound. It''s not that she wanted to see some thunder and rain but she just found it a bit weird.

    "He is smarter than we give him credit for," told Xiang Weimin. "He said he is a year older and a year smarter now. So, I should take him seriously."

    "He said that?" asked Mu Chenyan in utter shock.

    "Why are you so shocked, Aunt?"

    Mu Chenyan looked dazed for a while, "I just recalled someone saying the same thing to me once."

    Xiang Weimin paused, "Are you talking about Raelle?"

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head, "Yeah. It was her. She was also Justin''s age at that time. And she asked me about what happened to her grandmother. When I said I''d tell herter, she said she was a year older and a year wiser. I should take her very seriously now." She had a smile on her face as she recalled that time. "I almost pinched her face at that time. She was so cute with her chubby cheeks but spoke so seriously that the contrast made me love her more and more."

    "I can imagine," said Xiang Weimin.

    "What else did he say?" asked Tang Hebe who came to join them. "Sorry for listening in. I''m just curious about his reaction. He seems to be so normal that I thought you didn''t tell him the truth. But then I heard him calling you Dad and I have been confused until now."

    "I think I should give some credit to Raelle for this. She seemed to have prepared Justin for this scene already," said Xiang Weimin.

    "Huh? How?" asked Tang Hebe.

    "She told him to observe things if he feels uncertain about something and it turned out her advice was applied to all of us. Because Justin had been observing our strange reactions these days. He vaguely realized that we were rted. Especially when he found the simrities between himself and me."

    "That''s really the Xiang family''s kid,"mented Mu Chenyan. "He has keen senses already. I don''t think I have to worry about the next generation of our family anymore."

    Tang Hebe was still a bit surprised. She couldn''t believe that her tiny son was so capable already. She never doubted Justin''s IQ even when he was so withdrawn from the world. But she was surprised that his EQ wasn''t a joke too.

    "You didn''t expect it?" asked Xiang Weimin to Tang Hebe bringing her out of her daze.

    "Right. I didn''t doubt for a second that he won''t be able toprehend theplicated connection between you and him just because he is young. That''s why I let you freely talk to him too. However, I didn''t think he''d be able to deduce the truth on his own. I suddenly feel like he had realized that my intelligence couldn''t keep up with his so he never embarrassed me by asking unnecessary questions. I thought he just wasn''t purely interested in knowing. Now, it seemed he could just find clues on his own."

    Xiang Weimin smiled to himself, "Actually, I was also surprised by his intelligence. Don''t feel so low. He is a sensible kid."

    "He is also a sensitive kid too," said Mu Chenyan who was listening silently to them. "Don''t look down kids. They are very sensitive to feelings. I didn''t know that until I raised a kid myself. I also thought kids didn''t know anything. But strangely enough, kids know who is good or bad to them. They are very clear about the kindness and the malice of the world. This is even more true for kids like Justin who are born with a higher intelligence than an average person." She took a pause and added, "I can understand your feelings better than anyone right now. I also felt like a fool when I stood in front of Raelle. She had questions that I had no answers too. I had to learn a lot to keep up with her pace but in the end, she stopped me saying that I should stop running after her just to keep up with her. It''s good to want to keep up the pace with your child but remember, you can''t always do that. You can try your best but don''t lose your own pace of life in the process."

    Tang Hebe looked at Mu Chenyan thankfully. She genuinely felt her concern and was happy too to listen to this valuable advice that came through Mu Chenyan''s own experience.

    "I''ll do that," said Tang Hebe.

    "And if you can''t answer a question, tell him to look for his father," added Mu Chenyan. "If Weimin can''t answer, we have so many family members, someone will be able to handle his questions. You aren''t alone now."

    Tang Hebe smiled widely, "Yes, I understand that."

    "Good. Don''t take so much pressure now. I told you before, you aren''t alone. We owe you a lot for taking care of Justin. The least we can do now is to take care of you and be your support."

    "I''m just d that you said I''m not alone anymore. That already means a lot to me. Especially when I know that you have someplicated feelings towards me because of the past connection between me and Shui Xian."

    "I''ll ignore that from now on for my grand nephew''s sake. Nothing is above the grace of raising someone. You gave this grace to Justin and he calls you mother. You gave him a home when you didn''t even have a home of your own. It says a lot about your character. You might have ws but I don''t doubt your character. Don''t worry so much."

    "Thank you! You''re a very nice person."

    "I refuse to take thatpliment," said Mu Chenyan as she walked away.

    Xiang Weiminughed at his aunt and told the confused Tang Hebe, "My Aunt doesn''t like people saying she is a nice person. Because she genuinely thinks she isn''t one."

    "Strange," said Tang Hebe.

    "Yeah. But then again, everyone is strange in this family."

    "I agree."

    Xiang Weimin gave her a look but didn''t say anything else.

 Chapter 1283 Virtuous Wife

    Chapter 1283 Virtuous Wife

    Justin''s birthday party was rather uneventful or in other words, it was peaceful. It passed without causing any waves. Everyone had a fun time. The only difference would be that they all stopped hiding their rtionship from Justin and openly asked him to call them aunts, uncles, and whatnot ording to their seniority.

    Justin was obviously happy to have so many rtionships especially when he could feel their kindness towards him. He was willing to step out of his shell and take a step towards them.

    After the birthday party, half of the people took a flight straight to Xinji - the hometown of the Xiang family. Raelle and Shui Xian were in this group of people who arrived today rather than waiting for tomorrow. When theynded, the sun had already set. Cars were already waiting for them outside the airport that took them straight to the ancestral home of the Xiang family.

    The ancestral house was built halfway up the mountain. As the car moved up the mountain, Raelle was looking out the window. Shui Xian suddenly said, "There are so many stars here."

    Raelle turned to him.

    "Isn''t it? We don''t see this many stars back home." He sighed in a rxed manner as he added, "This is a quiet ce. Seems like a good ce for camping."

    Raelle asked, "Camping? That''s what came to your mind, husband?"

    "Of course," he replied. "Just imagine. We are camping out in thepany of nature. There is rustling of leaves, the mingling sounds of insects, there is a faint sound of gurgling of the water in the background. There is fire in front of the camp and we are cuddling together under the same nket with a cup of steaming hot cocoa, looking at this sky full of stars."

    "I didn''t know you''re so good at imagination," said Raelle.

    "That''s what came to your mind?"

    "What else?"

    "Don''t you think it sounds romantic?" asked Shui Xian.

    "What are you expecting me to answer to that question?"

    Shui Xian sighed, "Forget it. Don''t answer. You can''t feel what I''m feeling through just the narration of my imagination. So, I''ll just make it a reality to make you understand this feeling. After the experience, I''ll ask you if it''s romantic or not."

    "I''ll wait," said Raelle and didn''t dampen his spirit by saying that she wasn''t interested in camping. Even though she was really not that looking forward to this experience. However, she was willing to apany him in his chase. Yes, she thought he was chasing the stars. Whenever they came across a starry sky, he''d always pay it too much attention. Whether it was when they were together in his cabin in the woods, or when they were in the hotel room on their engagement night, or when they were at the temple after she left the hospital, or even when she first had a real close interaction with him on their very short but cozy honeymoon.

    It was quite ironic that Shui Xian had the same thought towards her. He didn''t think she was chasing the stars like she did. But he was certain that she''d always look at the sky whenever they were out. She thought he was the one paying attention to stars but she didn''t realize that it was her who unconsciously followed the stars making him curious to know what she was looking in those stars. Whatever it was, he was willing to keep it a mystery. He didn''t even try to clear up this small misunderstanding between them. He just thought it was fun.

    "Xian!"

    "Hm?"

    "I''m here with you," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian frowned in confusion before holding her hand and kissing the back of her hand saying, "I''m here too. Don''t always think that I''d be sad seeing you down. Of course, your mood will affect me but I''d rather give youpany than leaving you alone in that situation."

    "I''m rarely sad," she said.

    "I know. It''s not like I''m ming you."

    "Tsk. It''s not like you me me for anything."

    "I''m such a great husband. How did you get so lucky?"

    "I don''t know."

    Shui Xian was taken aback when she yed along with him and momentarily forgot what to say. He took a moment to add, "So, you agree?"

    "When did I not?" she asked back.

    "Don''t look at me like that, I''m gonna blush," said Shui Xian with a chuckle. "It''s so ttering." He slid over to her side and hugged her shoulder, "My dear wife, yourpliments make my day."

    "Oh? Why didn''t you say so? Should we make it a tradition?"

    "Huh?"

    "Topliment each other every day."

    "Would it be too much?" he asked.

    "I don''t know. I can handle it. What about you?"

    "Of course, you can handle it. You have the confidence to carry the burden of so manypliments but I might get crushed or I mightbust. What to do then?"

    "That''s an exaggeration," said Raelle.

    "Wife, you should take me seriously once in a while."

    "Don''t wanna."

    "Did my wife just got a rebellious bone in her out of somewhere?"

    "Why? I can''t?"

    "You can," said Shui Xian. "It''s just it took me by surprise that my obedient little wife actually said no."

    "What do you mean? You make me sound like a virtuous wife. I don''t think I fit there."

    "Yeah. But it''s a fact that you are a very obedient person."

    "Only when things are reasonable and I personally don''t think there is anything wrong with following other person''s words."

    Shui Xian gave her a look but didn''t say anything. It''s not like he hadn''t seen her agreeing to things she didn''t want to do. Why think about something else when just now, she was clearly against the camping but just because he said it, she agreed to join in his whimsical idea.

    He didn''t know what was the definition of a virtuous wife but he felt that his wife was perfect. At least, she was a perfect fit with him. Even when they had different ideas in life, they weren''t stubborn enough to make it an issue between them. And until now, he didn''t think they had any arguments since they got married. None that involved their rtionship.

 Chapter 1284 Look Like Her

    Chapter 1284 Look Like Her

    Soon, the car entered the Xiang family''s ancestral mansion. Both Shui Xian and Raelle alighted from the car and looked at the mansion in front of them with the same curiosity. It was the first time they both came here so it wasn''t a surprise that they were both curious about this ce.

    Xiang family''s ancestral mansion was like a majestic building hidden in this mountain with lush trees covering it up and making it a secluded ce. The housekeeper of this ce came to wee them all.

    "Patriarch!" called out the old housekeeper as he saw Grandfather Xiang. "Wee home!"

    Grandfather Xiang had an obscure look in his eyes when he looked at this ce. He had veryplicated feelings for this ce. It was a ce he really liked and it was also the ce he really hated too. It couldn''t be helped. It was here when he heard the news of the death of his father and his grandfather on the battlefield and saw his grandmother copsing from the shock.

    Later, it was here that his mother died too. Then his grandmother also left him alone.

    The good thing was that it was here that he married his wife and they had their son. Butter, he really couldn''t live in this ce and took the chance of the transfer order to move away from there with his wife and son after the death of his grandmother.

    He felt like it had been so long ago but at the same time, he felt like it was just yesterday when all that happened. He could still see a shadow of his younger self kneeling inside the ancestral hall looking at the tablets with tears dripping down his face.

    But there was a sense of reality in all that too. Because now, he was here with his grandchildren. He wasn''t that helpless younger self. He was old now and quite near his end too. It was good that he could hold his breath until now so that he coulde back to his roots.

    However, whether he was old or not, didn''t change the fact that his heart was still grieving for too many people. So many people left him behind in life. Whether it was his grandfather, father, mother, grandmother, or even his own wife who was supposed to walk this long journey of life with him. Everyone left him behind. He had to see them all off. He had to see off so many of hisrades in arms. He even had to say goodbye to his proudest profession of being a soldier because of the injury. For so long he always wondered, what was the reason that he held on until now. And then he''d look at the people around him and realize that he really couldn''t leave too.

    No matter how eager he was reunite with all those people, he could let go of these people around him too. He suddenly shook his head to shake off these negative thoughts. Who knows why he was thinking about these things today out of nowhere. It was so not like him.

    "Jiangou, how are you doing?" Grandfather Xiang addressed to the housekeeper. "You are getting old now."

    The housekeeperughed at his remark, "Patriarch, the world belongs to the young. It''s about time we get old, no?"

    Grandfather Xiang smiled at him but didn''tment on that.

    The housekeeper didn''t wait for his response either and said, "Come inside. I cleaned up your room." He looked behind and asked, "Where is Miss Mu? Didn''t shee with you? I even asked the kitchen to prepare her favorite dumpling soup for her."

    "She wille tomorrow," informed Grandfather Xiang. "She was originally gonnae today but some thing came up so she postponed her trip. She''ll be really upset if she heard that she couldn''t eat the dumpling soup."

    "This is a surprise," said the housekeeper. "Miss Mu never lets youe alone."

    "I''m not alone," replied Grandfather Xiang as he pointed at his grandchildren. "Look, I brought all three of my grandchildren to meet their grandma this time."

    Lao Jiangou looked at the three tall and outstanding people and his smiled widened, "They look like your grandchildren, Patriarch."

    "You don''t have topliment me."

    "But I''m speaking the truth," said Lai Jiangou. "You see, you had the same arrogance in your bones when you were young. Just like your grandson, you also kept a serious face. Don''t you remember how Matriarch used to tease you for your solemn look."

    Recalling the memories, they walked inside leaving the three siblings standing there. Oh, along with Shui Xian who never left Raelle''s side. "The housekeeper recognized us," said Xiang Wai. "But we never came here."

    "We did," replied Xiang Weimin. "You''re a baby so you can''t recall."

    "But Raelle didn''te."

    "No one can mistake her," said Xiang Weimin.

    "Why?" asked Xiang Wai.

    They had entered the main hall and Xiang Weimin didn''t respond. Instead, he held his sister''s shoulders and turned her to towards the south wall where a huge ck and white picture was hanging. The picture was the wedding photo of grandfather Xiang and Grandmother Xiang.

    "Look at Grandma and then look at Raelle. You think someone like Uncle Jiangou who grew up with Grandpa and watched him fall in love with Grandma and marry her, won''t be able to tell who Raelle is at first sight?"

    Xiang Wai looked at the photo thoughtfully before turning to look at Raelle. "Tsk. I didn''t have Grandma''s photos from her youth so I never realized that she and Raelle looked so much alike."

    "Do we?" asked Raelle finally. She turned to her husband, "Do I look like her?"

    Shui Xian didn''t answer immediately but also looked at the woman in the photo and then at Raelle. He seemed to be thinking very deeply right now. He even made Raelle stand beside the photo topare before he coulde to a conclusion of any kind.

 Chapter 1285 King Of The Mountains

    Chapter 1285 King Of The Mountains

    "Yes and no," Shui Xian took his sweet time before answering. "Yes and no?" repeated Raelle. "Is it because of our different temperaments?"

    "That too is a reason," said Shui Xian. "But apart from that, if you look at the two of you separately, you won''t really be able to make a clear connection between the two of you. But if you stand together like this, it''s undeniable that the simrity in your features is quite uncanny. Your features match her but not entirely either."

    "No wonder I said Grandpa loved her more,"mented Xiang Wai and earned a smack on the back of her head from her brother. "What? Am I wrong?"

    "Yes, you are," answered Xiang Weimin. "Grandpa doesn''t love Raelle more because she looks like the younger version of Grandma. Love doesn''t need reasons like that."

    "I agree," said Shui Xian. "Love really doesn''t need reasons. If it really did, I wouldn''t have fallen in love with Raelle."

    "Why?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Because every time I had a conversation with her back then, it felt like she was stabbing my heart or feeding me a bitter pill of reality. It stung. No, it hurt like hell. But I still ended up falling for her first."

    "Maybe you are just a sucker for pain," said Xiang Wai.

    "If you stay quiet, no one will call you a mute."

    Xiang Wai gave Raelle a look, "You really love to protect your husband."

    "Everyone likes to protect their treasures. Why is it wrong for me to do so? People even like to protect their own shorings. Am I wrong to do this?"

    Xiang Wai went silent momentarily before shaking her head, "No, it''s not wrong." She took a pause and frowned, "Ge, how did you know there was a photo here?"

    "He is the eldest son, he must have heard a thing or two from his father," said Raelle.

    Xiang Weimin smiled at her and nodded in agreement, "That''s true. Dad told me about it. In every generation, there will be a portrait of the current patriarch and his wife in the main hall. And since Grandpa is still the patriarch of the family, it''s still his nk and white photo hanging here."

    "Oh," was all Xiang Wai said because she didn''t know what else to say. "Then Ge, next will be your photo here, right? Because Dad isn''t getting the position of the patriarch."

    "It''s not necessarily me," told Xiang Weimin as he nced towards Raelle. "There is no such rule in the Xiang family that the head of the family can only be a man. It''s just that there had been ack of females in the Xiang family since the very beginning."

    "Don''t look at me, I don''t want this position. Ites with too many troublesome things," said Raelle as she pulled Shui Xian away from the two of them and stood far away.

    Xiang Weimin shook his head helplessly at her reaction. He was very certain that Grandfather Xiang wanted to pass on the family to Raelle but he also knew she won''t like these responsibilities. Maybe that''s why he was still a bit useful. He didn''t want to undermine his importance but he was clear-headed enough to understand his position too. He might be smart but he knew Raelle was a better choice. It was just that she was unwilling.

    "Young Masters and Young Misses, why are you just standing here? Let me show you to your rooms."

    They turned to look at the housekeeper and followed him.

    Xiang Wai rushed up and called out, "Lao Jian!" This brought another smack on her head from her brother, "Ge! What is it this time?"

    "Call him Grandpa Jian!" said Xiang Weimin.

    Lao Jiangou didn''t mind the way Xiang Wai called him. It didn''t matter to him. Anyway, Old Jian sounded a lot friendly but Grandpa Jian also represented the respect for him. He didn''t refuse either the titles. They were just titles anyway. He had always been loyal to the Xiang family, how could he care about titles at this age?

    "You can call whatever you want, Miss Wai," said Lao Jiangou.

    "So, Grandpa Jian, you grew up with my Grandpa, right?"

    "Yes," answered Lao Jiangou with a gentle smile. "I grew up with the Master."

    "How was he like when he was young?"

    Lao Jiangou''s smile deepened, "Master was most mischievous kid around. He would climb trees, dig bird nests, go down the stream to catch fishes, dig traps to catch pheasants in the mountains. All in all, he just wanted to cause trouble all day long. And when he came back in the evening looking like a mud monkey, he would be beaten with a feather duster."

    Xiang Wai gaped in disbelief, "Oh my! I didn''t think my Grandpa had such an adventurous childhood."

    Lao Jiangou chuckled, "It was adventurous for sure. He wanted to be the king of the mountains. Big dreams. But it changed quickly too."

    "What happened?"

    "Master lost his grandfather and his father whom he respected the most in his life. He admired both those people and he lost them at the same time. It was a devastating loss," told Lao Jiangou trying to say it in a in tone without losing hisposure or exining the details of what impact it really had on Grandfather Xiang back then. "I guess, he realized he had to grow up from that moment on. So, when he was a fifteen, he changedpletely and became a solemn young man who seemed mature. But he also seemed very cold to people from then on and didn''t let more people get close to him."

    "Why?"

    "Because he was afraid of the loss," said Raelle. "When you know people are gonna leave, why would you want to get close to them? Is it looking for pain for yourself?"

    Lao Jiangou gave Raelle a deep look and his lips turned up in a wry smile. But he didn''t refute Raelle''s words either. Because he was someone who knew what was Grandfather Xiang''s mental journey at that time.

 Chapter 1286 Hero Saving Beauty

    Chapter 1286 Hero Saving Beauty

    Xiang Wai turned to Lao Jiangou and seeing his expression, she didn''t ask for confirmation at all. But changed the topic, "Then Grandpa Jian, how did Grandpa meet Grandma?"

    "Hmmm..." Lao Jiangou had a thoughtful look on his face, "I should say it was a hero saving the beauty plot."

    "So exciting?" Xiang Wai''s eyes sparkled with a gossiping light.

    "It''s more exciting if you know that the whole plot was just a nned act," told Lao Jiangou without any intention of hiding.

    Xiang Wai''s eyes widened, "Who? Grandpa?" "You think that boring gourd is capable of this?"

    Xiang Wai pursed her lips to suppress herughter before saying, "It was Grandma?"

    Lao Jiangou nodded his head, "Although the times weren''t really peaceful back then, thew and order weren''t that bad either. Back then, people looked at soldiers reverently. I heard that Mistress seemed to have seen Master in his green uniform and found her target. She came to the country to see the country where her ancestors were from but it became difficult for her to go back because the international rtions were very strained at that time. She had to hide in a small town and met Master there. Knowing that soldiers are very responsible, she acted her y and made sure to hug Master''s leg and then she never let go."

    "I thought people were very conservative back then," said Xiang Wai emotionally. "I didn''t know they were open-minded enough to y like that."

    Lao Jiangouughed at her exaggerated expression, "Maybe because Mistress was born and raised abroad, her values and outlook were very different. So, she was very open-minded too."

    "And yet the marriage between Grandpa and Grandma worked?"

    "It worked very well. Theyplemented each other perfectly."

    Xiang Wai kept trying to feed her curiosity by asking questions as they walked through the winding corridors and finally stopped, "Young Master, the is your ce. Please freshen up before dinner. I''ll show the way to the two Misses."

    Xiang Weimin nodded and looked at Xiang Wai, "You stop asking questions already. Haven''t you had enough?"

    "Why? I think there are so many exciting stories I know nothing about." Shepletely ignored him and held Lao Jiangou''s arm as she smiled at him, "Grandpa Jian, tell me more. Oh, I''m curious. Everyone in our family is a sensitive person and very keen. How did Grandpa fall for Grandma''s trick? Did the beauty clouded his judgement?"

    "No, but the beauty did strike his heart," said Lao Jiangou. "Because he actually saw through the act. He was such a soldier. He wasn''t that easily fooled. But I think initially, he thought that your Grandma was an enemy agent. So, he told me to keep an eye on her when he brought her home. I thought he told me to take more care of her because he fell in love at first sight butter I saw the clues. He purely thought that she was a spy who was trying to get close to him for evil purposes."

    "Pfft!" Xiang Waiughed so hard that tears came out of her eyes. She could not believe it. "Raelle, did you hear it? Our grandparents have an even more exciting love story filled with mystery and twists and turns than ours."

    Raelle didn''t pay her any attention but it wasn''t like she wasn''t listening. In fact, all her attention was on the love story of her grandparents. It was a fresh experience for her.

    "Did Grandma never found out about his doubts?" asked Xiang Wai ignoring Raelle as well when she didn''t get any satisfactory reaction from her.

    "She did found out after they got married. Master never liked hiding things so he told everything to her truthfully. And then he had to sleep on the couch for a month too."

    Xiang Waiughed even harder, "My poor Grandpa really suffered. But who told him to doubt Grandma? Hehe..."

    Lao Jiangou felt like like Xiang Wai seemed to be enjoying the distress of her Grandfather way too much but he didn''t voice his opinion at the moment. In fact, he also gloated back then at Grandfather Xiang and said the same thing that he deserved to suffer for doubting the identity and intention of the Mistress. "This is your room, Miss Wai. Take some rest before dinner."

    "We are here, already?" Xiang Wai was very displeased that they arrived at her ce so soon. Raelle wanted to tell her that they had to walk for ten minutes before reaching this wing. She still felt like they arrived too early. Wow! Raelle was speechless. But then again, she really couldn''tprehend the way Xiang Wai''s brain worked.

    "But I''m not done yet," added Xiang Wai.

    "We are staying for a week," reminded Raelle.

    Xiang Wai perked up, "Yes. We are staying for a week. So, Grandpa Jian, you try to remember all the interesting stories of my grandparents and I''lle and find you again. Okay?"

    Lao Jiangou didn''t refuse at all.

    Xiang Wai happily went inside the wing to take a rest. She was looking forward to asking more questions and knowing more about her grandparents. This was the only way for her to feel close to them. After all, Grandma was no longer around. But she just realized that her Grandma left way too many legends behind.

    Lao Jiangou looked at Raelle and Shui Xian who happened spoken a word in front of him until now. In fact, he had the strongest impression of Raelle. He never met her. But he heard a lot from Mu Chenyan. How was it possible that he knew nothing about Raelle?

    Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan came here every year after all. And a person like Mu Chenyan who loved gushing about her Raelle never stopped mentioning her in all these years. So, even if people here didn''t meet Raelle in person. Everyone had seen her photos and they were too clear about her personality and daily habits too. That''s why he didn''t find Raelle''sck of enthusiasm odd at all. It seemed quite normal like that''s how it should be. That''s how Raelle should be.

 Chapter 1287 Empathetic

    Chapter 1287 Empathetic

    "Here we are," Lao Jiangou said as he entered the south wing with Raelle and Shui Xian. "This used to be your grandfather''s ce when he was younger. It had been empty since Master got married and shifted to the main residence. So, when you''re born, Miss Mu cleaned up this ce for you."

    "Thank you," said Raelle.

    Lao Jiangou smiled at her, "This is my duty. Miss Mu says you don''t like too many people around you, so I''ve asked all the house help to keep their distance from your ce unless they are called. You can use the bell if you need anything, I''ll take my leave now."

    Raelle nodded and watched him leave. He seemed to be the same age as her grandfather and yet, he looked a lot hale and hearty than her grandfather. "Let''s go inside," said Shui Xian as he opened the door and entered.

    The inside of this ce was decorated ording to Raelle''s likes and dislikes and it could be that there was a lot of thought put into it. Even if this was Raelle''s first time here, it could be seen that this south wing had always been reserved for her since she was born. "Our stuff is already here. Do you wanna take a shower, should I take out your clothes?"

    Raelle thought about it before agreeing.

    "Then you go and take a shower. I''ll help you with the clothes."

    Raelle didn''t say anything and entered the bathroom to take a shower. After the whole day, she really needed a shower right now. Outside, Shui Xian was about to bring her clothes to her when his phone rang and he got busy with a business call. Raelle wrapped a bathrobe and came out when she didn''t see Shui Xian bringing her clothes to her. As she stepped out, something caught her eye and she was momentarily distracted. In this distraction, she didn''t notice where she ced her foot and tripped.

    Shui Xian was turning around when he noticed her movement and ran towards her to help her. In the end, he fell first and cushioned Raelle''s fall.

    "Ouch!"

    Raelle ced her hand on his chest and looked at him wincing, "Are you okay?"

    "I thinks so," he replied.

    "Did you hurt your head?" she asked.

    "Yeah. But I think I''ll survive."

    "Sorry!"

    Shui Xian stopped his movement of rubbing the back of his head and used that hand to rub her head, "What are you sorry for? You just tripped. It can happen to anyone. What''s there to apologize for? I came over to help on my own. This has nothing to do with you."

    "I''m still sorry. I shouldn''t have been distracted," said Raelle.

    "It''s rare for my wife to be distracted," said Shui Xian. "It really doesn''t matter. Don''t beat yourself up for it now. Instead, how about you get up first? You''re very heavy. I''m about to be crushed to death."

    Seeing how he was still in the mood of joking, she knew he was fine so she hit his chest, "Now, I''m heavy?"

    "You are! Because now, your heart is filled with my love. And the weight of love is too heavy to bear."

    Raelle was speechless for a while and Shui Xian kept staring at her with a teasing look.

    "You did not just say that."

    "I did though."

    "That was... That was so unbelievable. Yeah. That''s all I can say right now."

    Shui Xianughed at her state and patted her arm, "Sweetheart, you really need to get up. I think I pulled a muscle."

    "Why didn''t you say that earlier?" she hurriedly got off his body and looked at him inquisitively. Shui Xian justid on the floor for a while before he sat up slowly and then stood up. "How is it? Where does it hurt?"

    Shui Xian tried moving and then said, "Nah. It''s false rm. I''m still fine. It isn''t a big deal."

    "Are you sure?" asked Raelle. "Tell me honestly. Don''t hide things from me. Tell me where it hurts. I''ll rub some ointment for you."

    "But it really seems fine for now. Let''s give it some time. Even if I got hurt somewhere, eventually I''ll feel the pain then I''ll let you know."

    Raelle wasn''tpletely convinced but still agreed with his words. "Why were you distracted though?" asked Shui Xian.

    Raelle pulled him towards the cab and pointed at a small golden cage. "This got me distracted. I felt like I had an impression of it and then I wondered where I had seen it."

    "So, did you remember?"

    "Yeah. After falling, it just clicked where I saw it."

    "Where?" he asked curiously.

    "I won it in a bet when I was ten."

    "Huh?"

    "There were birds in it. The owner of the bird cage was a little brat who thought he was capable of anything. Seeing how he scared the birds inside, reminded me of the time when I was kept in an iron cage someone kept hitting the cage to scare the kids inside. So, in the heat of the moment, I made a bet with that little brat and after winning, I set the birds free. But why is the bird cage still here?"

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and chose to ignore somethings as lightly as she spoke. And then he walked to the cage and held it up. Looking at it, he raised his brows and said, "Baby, do you know this cage is made of real gold?"

    "I didn''t know."

    "Of course, you didn''t know," he replied. "Anyway, Yanyan must have kept it as a momento. After all, in her impression, this was the first time you felt empathetic towards something."

    "Hey, that sounds very reasonable."

    "You can ask to confirm but in my opinion, that''s why she kept this around until now." "Okay, I''ll ask her then." She looked at Shui Xian''s phone that he dropped in a hurry trying to save her and said, "You should check your phone, is it broken?"

    Shui Xian waved off his hand offhandedly, "As long as you are fine. The rest doesn''t matter."

 Chapter 1288 Hugs And Kisses

    Chapter 1288 Hugs And Kisses

    After Shui Xian took a shower and came out, Raelle had already dried her hair and was now, observing every little thing in this ce. Shui Xian shook his head at her and didn''t say anything, he walked towards the window. Just as he put his hands on the handle, he heard Raelle''s voice.

    "Do you want to bring the mosquitos in?"

    Shui Xian paused and then said, "No, but I wanna look outside." He slid open the ss windows and stepped out before closing the ss windows behind him. He was actually a little surprised when he found that there seemed to be a small stream flowing down from here. He looked at the environment before he went inside.

    "Have you seen enough?"

    "Yeah."

    "How is it?"

    "It''s too dark to say anything but I feel like the view from here in the morning will be the best," he told her, his honest opinion. "And I''m quite looking forward to it too. Do you know there is a stream there? Do you think it''s artificial? Or is iting from the mountain spring?"

    "Mountain spring," replied Raelle. "I seem to have heard about this."

    "Do you think there is a waterfall in the mountain?"

    "Why are you asking? Don''t tell me you''re still in the mood to go on a camping trip."

    "I am," he replied. "You just tell me if there is a waterfall."

    "I think so."

    "You must not know the location. I''ll ask Opa when we meetter. Also, let''s wake up early to look around this ce."

    "Are you telling me to wake up early?"

    "Quite a useless thing to say, right? How can you bete? What I meant was that you remember to wake me up early."

    "Oh." She looked at his still wet hair and beckoned him over. "Come over and sit down here."

    "Huh? What happened?"

    When he sat down in front of her, Raelle took a dry towel and started wiping his hair. Shui Xian paused and smiled to himself before rxing.

    "My wife is so caring."

    "Don''t talk if it''s not an important thing."

    "Okay." Shui Xian was silently enjoying her service and suddenly thought of something, "What do you think about having a photoshoot here?"

    "Huh?"

    "Even if not the wedding photoshoot, let''s have a family photoshoot here. It''s the first time everyone is gathering here. I think this is a moment worth recording."

    "It doesn''t sound that bad. I think most people would love your idea."

    "I think so too," said Shui Xian.

    "How far is Taileng from here?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian stiffened when he heard that question and turned his head to look at her, "Why are you asking?"

    "That''s where you grew up," started Raelle. "Don''t you think I should see that ce?"

    "I don''t wanna take you there. For no other reason but that I don''t wanna go there myself," said Shui Xian. "If mom hadn''t been buried there, I''d never even wanna step a foot in that ce again."

    "You can''t run from your roots."

    "It doesn''t matter. I can hide," he replied. "Besides, if I wasn''t so tired of Taileng, I wouldn''t havee all the way to the Kia city. Even B¨¤ doesn''t wanna go to Taileng even though he has a deeper connection with that ce."

    "So, you don''t wanna show me where you grew up?"

    "The house in which I grew up is upied by other people now. There are no memories of mine there now. If you want to know something, you should just ask me. I''ll tell you everything vividly."

    "I don''t have such a rich imagination like you," said Raelle.

    "That''s such a shame." He got up and held her face in his hands before cing a kiss on her forehead, "Thank you for thinking about me so much. But I think it''s fine. You told me once that I''d have to tell you things clearly if I want them because you might not be able to figure it out on your own. I didn''t mind that back then and I don''t mind that now either. I think you shouldn''t try to always figure out things on your own. I told you, I''ll tell you everything. Even if I want a kiss, I shamelessly ask for it. I think I have gotten quite thick skinned now."

    Raelle gave him a small smile.

    "Tsk. This smile is all I needtely. I think I''m obsessed with this smile. No wonder I hated your fake smile so much. Only now I realized what I was looking for."

    "You talk too much," said Raelle.

    "As if I just started talking. Haven''t I always been like this?"

    "You had reservations when we first met," Raelle pointed out.

    Shui Xianughed out, "It was shyness. Now, we are old couple. What even is shyness between us now? I don''t think there is any ce for any reservedness too." He held out his hand towards her, "Let''s go. Let''s try out the specialities of Xinji. It''s my first time here. I''d like to see what''s special in their cuisine."

    Raelle took his hand and stood up. She asked him again, "You really didn''t get injured."

    "I think my phone has worse injuries," replied Shui Xian as he pointed at the broken screen of his phone. "As for me, I don''t think I need a repair. But I might need lots and lots of hugs and kisses to recover."

    "I think we should go now," said Raelle.

    "Eh? What about my hugs and kisses?" "I don''t know what you''re talking about."

    "No way. Wifey, you''re actually ying the oblivious game with me? How could you?"

    "I still don''t know what you''re saying."

    Shui Xian looked hurt, "You''ve injured my poor heart with this attitude."

    "How will it get better?"

    Shui Xian raised his brows at her knowingly.

    "No hugs and kisses," she replied making his lips turn downward. "You seem to love ying around these days."

    "Who told you y along?" asked Shui Xian. "It''s your indulgence that brought me here."

    "It''s my fault?"

    "Yes!"

 Chapter 1289 Toned Down

    Chapter 1289 Toned Down

    Raelle also felt like she had been indulging a lot of people these days. She wasn''t like this before. But now, she was almost unable to recognize her own self. She didn''t mind this change much. She was just surprised by this change. So many people tried to change her over the years. She had seen Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan''s efforts but she didn''t change all that much.

    But in thisst year, she just changed without knowing it.

    This was something she realized way earlier but day by day, she came to feel the changes within her. Just like now, she didn''t mind the extra chatty husband beside her. Neither did she really mind his clinginess, and super sticky talk. Even if she didn''t take his cheekyments seriously, she certainly came to enjoy them.

    When they reached the main hall, Xiang Weimin was already sitting with Grandfather Xiang. Seeing theming, Grandfather Xiang called her over, "Yenay, how do you like your residence?"

    "It''s nice," replied Raelle.

    "You''d love it once you see it during the day," said Grandfather Xiang. "That was my favorite ce. That''s why when I was old enough to live alone, I did everything to make the south wing my own. Now, it''s yours."

    "Grandpa, is it okay for you to be so openly biased?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    Grandfather Xiang gave him a look, "Grandson, it''s not that I''m openly biased. The south wing was originally built for my grandaunt. She was the one who personally designed the whole ce too. She was the youngest of the generation and she had said that the next owner of the south wing had to be the youngest daughter of the family. I had to do a lot to get that ce and I got lucky since I was all alone in my generation."

    "Oh," responded Xiang Weimin.

    They all sat around the dining table for dinner and only then did Xiang Wai appeared like a storm.

    "Grandpa! Grandpa! Grandpa!"

    "Stop shouting so shrilly, Wai!" said Xiang Weimin.

    "Ge, you don''t love me anymore."

    "I wish yourrades could see you like this. They might lose their mind seeing their always tough Major Wai acting like a white lotus."

    "Whit lotus?" Xiang Wai scrunched up her nose unhappily. "I prefer being a ck lotus though."

    "Okay, stop it now," said Grandfather Xiang. "Tell me why are you looking for me, Wai?"

    Xiang Wai immediately perked up, "Grandpa, are there many photos of Grandma here?"

    "Why are you asking?"

    "I wanna see," she told him. "Grandpa Jian told me so much and I want to know more. I never even knew that my Grandma was so fun."

    Seeing how she kept chatting, Grandfather Xiang didn''t interrupt at all but listened patiently and attentively. "I remember what my grandma said about her back then," said Grandfather Xiang.

    "What did she say?" asked Xiang Wai curiously.

    "She said if Wan was born in her era, she might have been a proper mountain bandit!"

    "What?"

    Grandfather Xiang smiled and nodded, "That''s what she said. And she wasn''t really wrong either. Wan was more like a bandit."

    "No way."

    "What? You don''t believe it?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    "I really can''t," said Xiang Wai. "That''s not what Aunt Chenyan say about her. ording to her, Grandma was a beautiful, elegant, and a kinddy."

    "That''s Chenyan''s biased opinion. There is no one Chenyan loves more than Wan in this world. How could you take her biased opinion so subjectively?"

    Xiang Wai went silent and took a while before asking, "So, Aunt Chenyan didn''t know real Grandma too?"

    "She did have some impression but as I said, there was a thick filter on Chenyan''s eyes. So, she purposely chose to ignore a few things. Wai, your grandma raised a daughter like Mu Chenyan. Seeing her, what makes you think your grandma would have been any different or normal? Even if Chenyan doesn''t realize, a lot of her bad habitse from her godmother. And that''s why she always made Wan go crazy because she didn''t want to raise a daughter like her own self. Because it only made her realize how difficult she had been to her parents growing up."

    "I have no words right now," said Xiang Wai and picked up a ss of water to drink. She processed what she heard and then asked, "So, the real Grandma was really as Grandpa Jian said. Bold, reckless, wild, and a unrestrained?"

    "She was more than that. She was domineering like no other. She had a young miss temper because of growing up in a honey pot. She did not like setbacks but once she faced them, she became even more stubborn about winning. Tell me, does it remind you of someone?"

    Xiang Wai paused before replying, "Aunt Chenyan."

    "Indeed," replied Grandfather Xiang. "Wan toned down her temper only after your father was born. She restrained herself and slowly started changing. Maybe because we lived in the militarypound after that and she had to socialize with all kinds of military wives, she became more articte and trickier. She had a very straight temper when we first met. If she liked it, she liked it. If she didn''t like it, she''ll let you know she doesn''t like it. I think it''s because she was a military wife that she had to change her temper so that she doesn''t hold me back."

    "Love is poisonous!"

    All of them were surprised to hear that voice and looked towards the door. Seeing Hyson standing there with a tired look on his face, they were all shocked. "Fai, you!" Grandfather Xiang didn''t know what to say when he suddenly saw Hyson here. He thought Hyson woulde tomorrow with the rest of the people. "How did youe?"

    Hyson dropped his backpack down and sat down on the dining table saying, "I am an angel, Ie with wings."

    Xiang Wai snickered, Xiang Weimin pursed his lips and Raelle was even more straightforward and knocked on his

    head unceremonically.

 Chapter 1290 Your Permission

    Chapter 1290 Your Permission

    Hyson covered his head and looked at Raelle defensively, "Jie, be nice. You are getting handsy these days."

    "Who told your ability to speak nonsense get worse and worse?" asked Raelle.

    "Oh, if I''m talking nonsense, you tell me how did I get here?" "You took Xian''s private ne here," answered Raelle.

    "How do you know that?"

    "Even if my husband doesn''t tell me, he isn''t that good at hiding either."

    Shui Xian scratched the bridge of his nose sheepishly.

    "If you''reing, why didn''t you juste with us?" asked Xiang Weimin. "And why bother brother-inw? Is it okay to use his private ne like this?"

    "I don''t mind," said Shui Xian. "I came with Uncle Shing," said Hyson. "He suddenly had to go somewhere and he offered to drop me here on the way. I felt like I didn''t want to be a light bulb between the two couples. So, I wisely chose to travel today." Then he turned to Raelle, "And Ellie, even if I don''t have angels. When I want it, people be my wings. Just like Uncle Shing became my wings this time around."

    "Where did B¨¤ go?" asked Raelle.

    "I think he went to his hometown," replied Hyson.

    "Why?"

    "Someone seems to be dying."

    "What?"

    Hyson shrugged, "That''s what he said. He didn''t exin anything. So, I believe that he didn''t care about this matter. I didn''t ask further about people he didn''t wanna talk about. I''m just thankful he gave me a way out and brought me here. If I knew it''d be so boring there, I''d havee with you guys. At least, it''s fun to annoy Major Wai."

    "Have some respect for me, I''m gonna be your sister-inw!"

    "I might respect you more if you said you''re my Sister Wai than being my sister-inw Wai!" He ignored her expression and looked at the food that was being served, "Oh, I''m hungry. What are we having?" He stood up and asked, "Where is the bathroom? I need to wash up a little before I can eat."

    Grandfather Xiang asked a maid to show him the way and his smile widened.

    "Grandpa, are you that happy to see him here?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Why not?" responded Grandfather Xiang. "I wanted him toe with us but he said he needed to meet someone. Why else would I leave him behind when I was bringing my grandkids here. Now, it''s fine that all of you are here."

    Hyson came back soon and sat down to eat. "Hyson, your diet!" reminded Raelle.

    "Screw it!" said Hyson. "You shouldn''t tempt someone who is on a diet. Didn''t I say it before? My self-restrain is already bad when ites to food."

    Raelle picked up her chopsticks and clipped some food for herself. Thinking of something, she even clipped some fish for Shui Xian too who was ttered by this gesture.

    "Wifey, are you on a mission of being a virtuous wife?" he asked.

    "Why? I can''t y the role?" asked Raelle.

    "You can. You can for sure. But I really don''t need a virtuous wife."

    "You need a caring wife, you don''t need a virtuous wife, you don''t even need a careful wife. What do you want?"

    "I want just a lovely wife. Who just loves me."

    "You feed on love?"

    "I do! I do feed on love like a vampire feed on blood." He looked so serious that Raelle didn''t doubt his words even more a second. She was very sure that he wasn''t joking at all. There wasn''t even a hint of teasing in his voice. He was way too serious right now.

    Everyone at the dinner table suddenly was fed a mouthful of dog food by this couple and didn''t know what to say. Only Hyson coughed and shook his head, "Again, love is poisonous."

    "What do you even mean by this?" asked Xiang Wai.

    Hyson chewed a mouthful of food and swallowed before saying, "Isn''t it obvious? I just think love is too poisonous. I always had this vague idea but it had been strengthenedtely."

    "Why?"

    Hyson pointed at Raelle, "Do you look at her? She wasn''t like this. She changed after falling in love. Unknowingly, her thoughts started revolving around Xian Ge and not only that, she became considerate in everything. She was the one who didn''t even care when she made people cry with their words. She didn''t even care when she stabbed Xian Ge in his heart with her words. But now, she always is careful with her words so as not to hurt him." He sighed, "I heard what Opa was saying earlier. And it is obvious that your grandma was also poisoned by love. A strong woman with her own ideas started following the norm for the person she loved. My mother lost her own existence and started living in a bubble because of love. My favorite godmother is also changing. Look at yourself, do you really think love has no effect on you?"

    "I never thought about this," said Xiang Wai.

    "How can you think when love lowers your IQ?"

    Xiang Wai red at him, "I am so waiting for you to fall in love."

    "So am I," said Raelle.

    "Ellie!" Hyson looked at her in disbelief.

    "I really am looking forward to it. Xian said when people like you fall in love, it''s a sight to behold. I''m eagerly looking forward to seeing that sight of your fall."

    Hyson put the spicy boiled fish in his mouth and chewed it slowly as he stared at her face trying to see if she was serious. Oh, wait! She was always serious. How could he doubt her intention? "Then you''re wee to wait and see. You are here. I''m also here. Let''s see my fall together. I''ll give you the front row seat with free popcorn."

    "I don''t need your permission."

    "Right. You never needed my permission."

    Grandfather Xiang looked at this lively dinner table and found it more and more pleasing to the eye. He was truly happy to see Hyson here. He was still feeling that something was missing when he came here with his three grandkids but now, he felt like everything was fine now. Everything wasplete now.

 Chapter 1291 Muddled Way

    Chapter 1291 Muddled Way

    Lao Jiangou was checking the arrangements for tomorrow and only did he get toe to the dining hall. Before he even entered, he heard theughter and chatter from inside. He was slightly startled. He was too used to the silent house. It was a grand mansion. After all, it was once the residence of a general. But this mansion was only grand from the outside. There were always more servants than family members inside.

    And that''s why over time, there was only silence in this huge ce. He didn''t think he''d be able to hear suchughter echoing in this ce. It almost made him tear up. Heposed his emotions and walked inside.

    "Patriarch, do you need anything else?"

    "Lao Jian, why don''t you sit with us and eat?" asked Grandfather Xiang in response. "I can''t sit with you."

    "Don''t talk that nonsense with me again. Is it necessary for you to be so stubborn at this age when we both have one foot inside the grave?"

    "Opa!" Grandfather Xiang looked up at Hyson''s displeased expression and smiled helplessly.

    "Fai, I''m not wrong."

    Hyson pouted in response. Lao Jiangou looked at Hyson and his smile deepened, "Oh, you must be young master Yue Fai."

    "What young master?" responded Hyson. "It''s just Yue Fai."

    "How is that possible? You''re certainly the young master. I was wondering why this ce was filled with so muchughter, now I know. It''s because you''re here."

    "Grandpa, you seem to know me well."

    "I have heard about you a lot," said Lao Jiangou. "It''s good to finally meet you in person."

    "Grandpa Jian, you didn''t look this happy to meet us," said Xiang Wai.

    "How is that possible, Miss Wai?" asked Lao Jiangou. "It''s just that Young Master Yue Fai is Master''s little Prince and I had been a little too curious about him." He took a pause and smiled kindly at Hyson, "Do you like the food?"

    "Oh, I love this boiled fish and the fried tofu too much. And this stew is heavenly too. Where is the chef, I feel like giving his hands a kiss right now."

    Lao Jiangou''s wrinkled face burst intoughter, "You''re really funny."

    "I''m serious. Why do people not take me seriously when I am serious?" Hyson looked very dissatisfied at the moment. He felt like he wasn''t being taken seriously. Was it that difficult to feel his sincerity? He felt like he was a very sincere person.

    "Maybe you because have a bad reputation," Xiang Wai pointed out.

    "Major, I don''t wanna have a fight with you right now."

    "Why not?"

    "Because it''s my first night here. I don''t wanna leave a bad impression."

    "On who?"

    "On your ancestors."

    "Where are the ancestors?"

    "They must be here, flying around us, eavesdropping on our conversation and seeing everything."

    Xiang Wai went silent for a while before asking, "Fai, do you think there are ghosts in this ce?"

    "I believe ghosts are everywhere. Why do you think I don''t like walking on the dark road?"

    "Because you have done too many bad things so you''re scared of ghosts knocking on your door."

    Hyson gave her a speechless look, "So, you''re hell bent on looking for a fight with me, eh?"

    Xiang Wai shrugged. Before Hyson could say anything else, Raelle put down her chopsticks and looked up at him, "Aren''t you done preaching your agenda of ghosts?"

    "I think I have told you more than once to stop making fun of my beliefs," retorted Hyson.

    "I''m not making fun of your beliefs. I think I''m tired of hearing all this," said Raelle. "And I''m a firm believer of science. No matter what you say, it won''t change my belief that there are no ghosts in this world."

    Hyson tsked at her and didn''t bother arguing with her. He silently rushed to finish the meal since he was really hungry. Why was he torturing himself for a diet? The food was his sce. Why did he choose to punish himself and deprive his only joy in life? Why did he choose the path of being an idol and an actor now where he always had to be figure conscience? It seemed like he really needed to reconsider his future n seriously. Eating like a bird and eating only boiled vegetables wasn''t fun. It wasn''t even for his own dream. So, why was he doing this to himself. He sighed to himself depressingly.

    "What''s on your mind all of a sudden?" asked Raelle.

    Hyson looked up at him, "I''m thinking about my future."

    Raelle paused and for a moment, forgot to even react. "What did you say? Can you please repeat it again? I think I heard it wrong just now."

    "I said I am thinking about my future."

    Raelle stared at him deeply, "Did something happen?"

    Hyson thought about it and shook his head, "Not really."

    "Then why are suddenly thinking about your future? That''s not like you."

    Hyson rolled his eyes at her, "I can too thinking about my future, okay? I don''t see anything wrong with that. Who said I have to live in a muddled way?"

    "You''ve been living in a muddled way? Why didn''t I know that? That''s not what you used to say."

    "I just had this realization," said Hyson. "Is it wrong to get the enlightenment?"

    Raelle shook her head at him, "No, it doesn''t seem to be wrong. I am just trying to understand what prompted this enlightenment. Once again, are you sure nothing happened?"

    Hyson wanted to roll his eyes again but stopped and stared into his eyes with a bright smile on his face, "Ellie, you''re concerned about me?"

    It was more of a statement than a question and he was really not looking for an answer. He was certain that she was concerned about him. It wasn''t something new. But for her to word out her concern was definitely something new to him. Seeing his smile, Raelle suddenly had the urge to not talk to him at all. What was the point in talking to this fool? It was like she was looking for trouble for herself and that was so not like her.

 Chapter 1292 Dual Attack

    Chapter 1292 Dual Attack

    "Fai, is everything really okay?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    Hyson moved his eyes away from Raelle and looked at Grandfather Xiang, "Opa, don''t listen to her. I''m absolutely fine. But you look really tired. You didn''t even take a nap today. Your routine is all messed up. It''ll affect your health. How about I take you back to rest?"

    Grandfather Xiang gave him a loving smile, "I am fine. I can bear this much tossing. You don''t have to be so concerned about me. And you, don''t try to change the topic here too. Did something happen? Raelle is mostly not wrong."

    "She can be wrong too. Should I remind you what she used to say about love? Didn''t she p herself in the face now? Why are you saying that she can''t be wrong?"

    "But she isn''t wrong about you," said Grandfather Xiang. "Opa, nothing really happened," replied Hyson. "Yes, I thought it was fine to live like this. But now, I feel like it''s too boring to just live like this and I should think about my life choices once again. Anyway, too many people have been telling me to think about what my own dreams are rather than chasing others'' dreams. So, I decided to seriously consider it all. Is something wrong with that?"

    Grandfather Xiang actually breathed a sigh of relief when he heard that and his smile became even brighter, "No, there is nothing wrong. In fact, I think this is great. Finally, you''re enlightened. One less thing to worry about for me." He turned to Lao Jiangou and said, "Lao Jian, take Fai to his ce to rest. He has been running around since yesterday and must be tired."

    "Opa, you don''t have to worry about me."

    "But I am worried. What can you do about that?"

    Hyson didn''t know how to respond to that.

    Lao Jiangou also spoke up, "Young Master Yue Fai, let me show you your ce. Your room was personally designed by Master. That''s why I was even more curious about you all this while since thest time Master made this much effort was when he married the Mistress back then."

    Hyson turned to look at Grandfather Xiang and smiled at him with a warm smile. He went to Grandfather Xiang''s side and hugged his neck from behind saying, "I knew you loved me more than Raelle."

    Raelle also looked at Grandfather Xiang who looked very helpless being stuck between these two. "Why do you love being sopetitive with Raelle?"

    "I don''t know. I just love to piss her off. That''s the only expression of hers that I love."

    "All you love is your ability to get on her never," Grandfather rubbed his head lovingly and turned to Raelle. "Yenay, he is younger than you. Give in to him a little."

    "I didn''t say anything," was Raelle''s response. "Stop annoying Opa here and go to your room. You are looking like a homeless guy."

    "Have you ever seen such a handsome homeless guy?"

    "Yes!"

    "Where?"

    Raelle pointed at him, "Right here."

    Xiang Waiughed at that and said, "You both should do a show together. I think people would love to pay to watch you both just having a normal conversation. What do you say, Ge?"

    Xiang Weimin gave her a look and said, "Are you having too much fun, Wai?"

    Xiang Wai nodded without any hesitation, "Yes, yes. It''s like watching a TV show."

    Both Hyson and Raelle turned to Xiang Wai while Xiang Weimin slowly distanced himself from his sister. He knew the joint attack wasing and he didn''t want to be a part of it at all.

    "Major, do we look like clowns or entertainers to you?" asked Raelle.

    "I think she thinks we are clowns," said Hyson.

    Xiang Wai finally realized what just happened. Oopsie! She shouldn''t have spoken out her true thoughts. Now, these two were gonna join hands to deal with her. "Major, how is your proposal going?" asked Raelle.

    "Oh, there is a proposal? What do you say if I tell my brother about this?"

    Xiang Wai gave Hyson a look of disbelief, "You can''t be this petty."

    "But you don''t understand. We can be petty too," said Hyson. "You really underestimate us."

    "Major, it seems like you''re toofortable these days," said Raelle. "That you''ve even startedughing at my expense. Do I need to remind you who I am again?"

    "I remember," said Xiang Wai. "I can''t forget. You''re Raelle."

    "Yes! I''m Raelle Xiang. You better not make any mistake about that. Don''t think I''m easy to talk to. I''m still the same."

    Xiang Wai sighed, "Why are you doing this to me? I didn''t say anything wrong."

    "Didn''t say anything wrong but youughed at us. Besides, we haven''t even begun to do anything."

    "Right. Do you think Ellie and I are so easy? This isn''t even an appetizer. You be careful around us. We might love to attack each other but it''s very dangerous when we join hands."

    "I can vouch for that," said Grandfather Xiang. "The strongest team around has to be Raelle and Fai."

    Hyson looked proud, "Of course, we are the strongest team. Why else would we be the best friends here?"

    "You both are crazy. Equally," was Xiang Wai''s response. "There is no other reason why you are best friends even with such drastic differences in your personalities."

    "And no one ever told you that messing with crazy people doesn''t end well?" asked Hyson. "You canugh at me, but please, refrain fromughing at my best friend. I don''t like that. I refuse to ept that."

    "So protective of your shoring?"

    Hyson shrugged, "I am very unreasonable in this matter too."

    "You''re unreasonable in many matters," was Xiang Wai''s answer.

    "Anyway, it''s better if you don''t use us for your entertainment," said Raelle. "Yes, boss!" She looked at the two of them and paused, "That''s all? You both are letting me go so easily this time?" She couldn''t believe it. She thought she''d have to shed ayer of her skin before escaping from their attack. But this was too easy. "Just as Hyson said earlier," started Raelle. "This is our first night here. We''ll let you go this time."

    Xiang Wai was shocked to hear this and lowered her voice to talk to Xiang Weimin, "I thought she didn''t believe in Fai''s ghost theory."

    "But she respect whatever he says," responded Xiang Weimin. "So, even if she doesn''t believe it. She''ll always go along with him. Silly, why haven''t you figured it out yet?"

    Xiang Wai pursed her lips not knowing what to say.

 Chapter 1293 Worry-Free

    Chapter 1293 Worry-Free

    Early the next morning, Shui Xian stuck to his words and ran out from the back window to look outside. Even when Raelle asked him if he wanted to go on a run with her, he refused decisively.

    Sitting down on the wooden deck, he rolled up his pants and dipped his feet into the cold but clear stream. He seemed to be humming an unknown tune and looked way too happy and rxed just staring at the view in front of him. "Xian Ge, what are you doing?" asked Hyson strangely while yawning.

    "Nothing. I''m just rxing," answered Shui Xian.

    "You do look like you''re having fun," said Hyson. "Why though?" He was very curious so he ran over and sat down beside Shui Xian. "Let''s see if I am able to feel as happy and rxed as you by just sitting here."

    "Be my guest," said Shui Xian. "I think this is really a treasurend. I feel really good here."

    "Is it nature or is there something else making you feel this way?" inquired Hyson.

    "I don''t know," responded Shui Xian. "Whatever it is, it''s good." He closed his eyes and felt the breeze caressing his face slowly. There was the sound of various birds in his ears which seemed like a melody to him.

    Hyson stared at his state and was momentarily stunned. "Why am I feeling so envious of you right now?" asked Hyson in a low voice.

    "Envious of me?" Shui Xian opened his eyes and tilted his head towards Hyson. "Why?"

    "You look too happy and rxed. I am unable to understand it."

    "Then I''m really sorry. I can''t help you with that."

    "I know you can''t help me," said Hyson and yawned again.

    "You didn''t get a good sleep?"

    "I did," replied Hyson. "In fact, I had an excellent sleepst night. It was so good that I didn''t want to get up."

    "Then why did you get up so soon?"

    "I also don''t know," answered Hyson.

    "You didn''t get scared all alone in your wingst night, did you?"

    Hyson chuckled at that, "No, I didn''t." He looked around before asking, "What about Ellie? Is she on her morning run?"

    "Yes," answered Shui Xian. "Where else would she be at this time?"

    "Why didn''t you follow her? That''s odd."

    "I wanted to sit here. I''ve been looking forward to sitting here sincest night."

    "Why?"

    "I told you, I just felt good about this ce. No other reason."

    "Won''t you like it even better if you had a cup of hot coffee in your hands right now?"

    Shui Xian gave him a look, "Not a bad idea. Let me call someone."

    "Okay." Hyson saw him go inside to call someone while he followed his lead and also rolled his trousers and dipped his feet into the cold water making him shiver at first but slowly, he got used to it. He shook his leg yfully and then stopped as it came to his mind, "Is this ce haunted or what? Why am I suddenly in the same mood as Xian Ge?"

    Shui Xian walked slowly behind him and did, "Boo!"

    "AHHH!" Hyson screamed and fell down into the stream making Shui Xianugh at his reaction.

    Hyson patted his chest to calm himself down as he red at Shui Xian, "This is not funny!"

    "Sorry! I couldn''t help it," said Shui Xian trying to suppress hisughter as he looked at Hyson sitting in the shallow water. Hyson took a deep breath and sshed water at Shui Xian without any mercy, "An apology won''t cut it!"

    Shui Xian tried to avoid his attack but he still got sshed and this made Hyson very happy.

    "What are you two doing?"

    Both of them stopped and looked at the newer who happened to be Xiang Weimin. He was justing back from his run when he heard the noise and the curiosity got the best of him and he ended up here. "Are you kids? What is even this?"

    "Weimin Ge, you''re old. We know already," said Hyson. "Let us be happy in our childishness."

    Xiang Weimin looked at Shui Xian, "I can expect this from Fai but you? I thought you''re very sober and mature."

    "I am very mature when I have to be," replied Shui Xian. "But who stipted that I can''t be childish once in a while?" With that, he gave Hyson a signal with his eyes who immediately caught it and smiled evilly. "It''s early in the morning and you both are here ying around. I don''t know why..." Before he could continue the lecture, his face was sshed with water.

    Hyson and Shui Xianughed out loud together.

    "Weimin Ge, if you kept acting like this. Your son might end up disliking you in the future for being no fun."

    Xiang Weimin wiped his face with his hand and said, "I''m worried about you more than my son."

    "I''m such a worry-free person though," Hyson spread his hands.

    Xiang Weimin scratched his brow and said, "Right. You''re so worry-free that it''s distressing."

    Hyson chuckled in response.

    "Xian, keep an eye on him. And you, Fai,e out of the water. Just because it''s summer do you think you won''t get cold? Or are you waiting for your fish friends down there?"

    Hyson gaped at him, "You''re so nagging and you are being sarcastic too. Wow!"

    "What else should I do when you give me so much headache? Come out already and change your clothes before you get sick."

    "I''m not that frail."

    "I don''t care," responded Xiang Weimin as he turned to leave. "You better change your clothes fast. If anything happened to you, Aunt Chenyan is gonna ask me why I didn''t take care of you better as the elder brother."

    Hyson came out of the water and suddenly his vision went dark as Shui Xian put a towel on his head. Before he could say anything, Shui Xian suddenly held his head through the towel and started rubbing vigorously making him dizzy.

 Chapter 1294 Cruel World

    Chapter 1294 Cruel World

    "Xian Ge!" Hyson yelled. "I''m gonna get a headache at this rate."

    Shui Xian finally let him go, "I thought I should help you in wiping your hair."

    Hyson pulled off the towel from his head and stared at him, "Oh, thank you for your thoughtfulness but let''s not be this thoughtful next time. Okay?"

    "I will try my best."

    Instead of leaving, Hyson sat back down on the wooden deck and pulled Shui Xian down too.

    "Aren''t you going to change your clothes?"

    "I''ll do itter. I''m having such azy but rxing morning. I don''t wanna cut it short."

    "I have the same idea," said Shui Xian.

    "Weimin Ge is so boring."

    Shui Xian smiled in response when he heard that. "Maybe it''s the generation gap."

    "I also think so," said Hyson. "There are seven or eight years between us. For sure, there is a big generation gap. Ironically, I never even felt it with my godmother."

    "But you feel it with your mom."

    "That''s different."

    "Okay," responded Shui Xian. He put his hands behind him and leaned back with his weight on his hands as he said, "It''s so..."

    "Peaceful here," Hysonpleted his sentence.

    "It''s also very..."

    "Silent."

    "I feel like..."

    "Drifting with the wind."

    Shui Xian stared at him, "Can you stoppleting my sentences for me?"

    "I can''t help it," replied Hyson.

    Shui Xian shook his head and said, "It reminds me of the time when..."

    "We went to that temple."

    Shui Xian looked helpless as he continued, "It''s like no one..."

    "Lives here."

    "Fai!"

    "Yes!"

    "Stop it!"

    "Oh." Thinking of something, he perked up again and said, "Ge, there is grape trellis in my yard. It''s beautiful."

    "Why are you telling me that?"

    "Just felt like sharing."

    "Eh?"

    Hyson looked into his eyes, "Ge, haven''t you realized it yet?"

    "What?"

    "That you seem to be the only person who doesn''t mind responding to my useless talking too. Others mostly just hear my nonsense. You always not only listen but you also respond to it. So, I just love talking to you."

    Shui Xian had a helpless smile on his face. He was not expecting this response.

    "Then have you thought about your future?" asked Shui Xian thinking about what Hyson saidst night. He wondered what were his ns now.

    "I was very busyst night. I didn''t have time to think about future," said Hyson.

    "What were you busy with? Sleeping?"

    Hyson cleared his throat, "Ge, I was busy dreaming. You realize how important dreams are?"

    Shui Xian shook his head, "Forget it. I don''t wanna hear how important dreams are. However, once you decide something, let me know. I''m here to listen."

    "Of course, I know that," responded Hyson. "Ge, I heard there is a waterfall in the mountains."

    "So?"

    "Let''s go hiking," suggested Hyson.

    "I was nning on camping," told Shui Xian and Hyson got excited. "Really? That''s even better. We can go camping and catch fishes to grill. I''ll help you dig wild vegetables too. Oh, it''ll be difficult to find mushrooms. Anyway, if we find it, I''ll help you recognize all the edible wild vegetables and mushrooms."

    "Oh, our Fai is so knowledgeable!"

    "Of course, I am," Hyson looked proud. "My knowledge doesn''te from books. I am not like Raelle who has no useful knowledge in her brain. I''m a practical person. So, I have all the survival skills."

    Shui Xianughed at that, "You really don''t have to bring down my wife while showing off your own skills." He found it really funny and told him, "But there is no point in nning. You''ll have to first convince Raelle for the camping."

    "I have to do that?" asked Hyson. "Isn''t it better if you do this?"

    Shui Xian patted his shoulder in encouragement, "I''m leaving this difficult task to you, my brave soldier!"

    "Fine! I''ll get it done!"

    Shui Xian looked at his face and said, "How about we go to your vige? The ce where you grew up."

    "How about a no?"

    Shui Xian sighed, "Why are you reacting like me? Is it that difficult to show us the ce where you spent your childhood?"

    "It''s not difficult. I just hate that ce very much. My fear of ghostses from that ce. A lot of my fearse from that ce. A lot of my hatred alsoes from that ce."

    "A lot of your scars too," added Shui Xian.

    Hyson went silent for a moment and thenughed it off, "See? This is why I don''t like even talking about that ce. It takes away my smile."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and wanted to say something but suddenly he felt something wet on his face. He touched his face and looked towards the sky. Within a minute, the sky started pouring down.

    "Damn! The summer sky is really like the face of a baby. It can change anytime without even a warning,"mented Hyson as he rushed under the shade to hide from the rain.

    "How do you know how babies change their face? Do you even have experience?"

    "That''s a famous saying between farmers, Ge! Besides, you don''t need experience to know about this kind of things."

    Shui Xian suddenly paused and then his eyes widened as he ran away.

    "Ge, where are you going in the rain?"

    "My wife is out there, I''m gonna bring an umbre!" shouted Shui Xian while running away.

    Hyson looked at his back and pursed his lips, "Sigh! People are leaving me alone a lottely. Oh, these people who just love their partners and forget friends. What a cruel world! Cruel world!"

    He put his hands into his pockets and looked up at the pouring rain outside. He thought for a minute before shrugging and walking towards his yard without taking the umbre with him. Anyway, he wasn''t scared of getting wet or getting sick. He whistled and walked leisurely in the rain as if he was in no hurry at all.

 Chapter 1295 Difficult Time

    Chapter 1295 Difficult Time

    "Where is Wai? Didn''t she wake up yet?" asked Grandfather Xiang when he didn''t see her at the breakfast table. "Is she still sleeping?"

    "I''m here!" Xiang Wai ran over in a hurry and took a seat.

    "I think you had a very good sleepst night," said Grandfather Xiang.

    Xiang Wai smiled at him, "Yeah. I slept way too well."

    Lao Jiangouughed as he said, "Miss doesn''t have to be embarrassed about such a thing."

    "Yes, there is no need," agreed Grandfather Xiang. "It''s not my fault," said Xiang Wai. "Grandpa, I think this is the fault of this ce. I just couldn''t wake up."

    Grandfather Xiang and Lao Jiangou shared a look before a heartughter rang out.

    Grandfather Xiang pinched her nose, "You''re really Grandmother''s granddaughter." Seeing her confused look, he added, "Your Grandma couldn''t get up early when we first got married. She''d also use the same excuse that this ce was at fault otherwise, she was a very diligent person."

    Xiang Wai pursed her lips in response.

    "Let''s eat now," said Grandfather Xiang.

    Just like this, with the pitter-patter of the rain in the background, the whole family had a warm breakfast before Just like this, with the pitter-patter of the rain in the background, the whole family had a warm breakfast before going back to get dressed. Grandfather Xiang was sitting in front of the window, looking at the rain falling down outside in a daze. No one disturbed his thoughts and gave him space at the moment.

    "I think rain loves my godmother as much as my godmother loved rain."

    Grandfather Xiang was pulled out of his daze and he looked at Mu Chenyan who appeared beside him.

    "What do you say, Elder Xiang?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "I don''t know if the rain loves her but she did love rain with a passion," replied Grandfather Xiang with a gentle smile on his face. "You''re finally here. Usually, you''re the first person toe."

    "Sorry, I got stuck with things," answered Mu Chenyan. "Anyway, I didn''t have to worry about leaving you alone. I sent three people to apany you and even sent an extrater on to brighten up this ce."

    Grandfather Xiang shook his head at her, "You did well."

    "I know that. I always do well."

    "Narcissist,"mented Grandfather Xiang.

    Mu Chenyan shrugged and happily took thepliment. "How are you feeling?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "Don''t worry about me."

    "How can I not? Whenever wee here, you fall ill. I have to worry about your health because you don''t take care of yourself."

    "That''s an exaggeration. Even if I forget to take care. Aren''t you always around like a shadow? And even if you aren''t around, you leave your people around me. Do you know how ufortable it is being watched all the time?"

    "Can you me me for that? I looked away once and trusted you too. What happened? You ended up in the hospital and scared the hell out of me."

    "Chenyan..."

    "Yes?"

    "You should slowly start getting used to it."

    Mu Chenyan paused and then turned to him, "I don''t want to. You know that."

    "I''m already very old."

    "People are older than you."

    "I suffered a lot of injuries in my youth on the battlefield. You can''t just pretend like everything is okay around you. You need to start epting the fact that one day in the future, I won''t be around you."

    Mu Chenyan turned her face away as if she didn''t want to look at him right now. She took a deep breath and crouched down in front of his wheelchair. She put her hands on his hands and said, "You know I think I''m one of luckiest people in this world. I got two pairs of parents who loved me very much. Even if I lost one pair, I still had the other around me. But now, I only have you. You remind me every step of the way that you''re gonna leave me, isn''t gonna prepare me for the future. It only hurts me more and more. It hurts me a lot. Do you understand that, B¨¤B¨¤?"

    Grandfather Xiang touched her head lovingly and with a bit of guilt, "I''m sorry! I know it hurts you. I will try not to bring this topic up."

    "You know today is the worst day to bring this topic up. It''s my godmother''s birthday. I don''t have her around. And you''re talking about this for what? To me feel even worse?"

    "I said, I''m sorry!"

    "I don''t need you to apologize to me. I just want you to stop talking about this."

    "Okay. Okay, my dear ancestor! I won''t say a word. Can you calm down? Don''t you dare let those tears fall."

    "If you don''t want me to cry then don''t say things like that. I''m gonna file aint with my godmother. You can''t make me cry like this."

    Grandfather Xiang felt very distressed seeing her like this but he also felt likeughing at the same time. What was he supposed to do with this woman? She was already so old and still threatened him the same way she did when she was a kid.

    "Okay, you can file aint. You can do whatever you want. Just don''t let those tears fall. I really can''t handle your tears."

    Mu Chenyan stubbornly held in her tears and really didn''t let them fall. It''s not like she wanted to cry. She would like to me it all on him. She had no other excuse for these tears. "Everyone is here this time. You really need to keep yourposure this year. If the kids saw you cry, imagine the impact. Your image will copse. Don''t you wanna be the cool and calm aunt anymore? Why are you rushing to destroy your own persona now?"

    "Isn''t it your fault," she retorted. "Who asked you talk nonsense? You always do this to me. You don''t say this to any one else but me."

    Grandfather Xiang gave her a small smile, "Silly, because I know. My daughter is gonna have the most difficult time when I''m not around."

 Chapter 1296 Special Existence

    Chapter 1296 Special Existence

    This time, Mu Chenyan really couldn''t control her tears and they fell down. She put her forehead against his knee and shed silent tears.

    She knew he was right. She knew it all too well and that''s why she hated it when he brought up this topic. She just said she was luckiest to have two pairs of parents but it also came with the double loss. She didn''t have to go through the pain of losing her parents once but twice. And the longest time she spent was with Grandfather Xiang. Even if she said she loved her godmother more, it was a fact that she seemed to care more about her godfather. And it was truly painful for her to just imagine a day without him. "What happened here?" asked Xiang Hulin. He looked at Mu Chenyan''s trembling shoulders and was startled, "Chenchen! Are you crying? What''s wrong?" He held her shoulders and pulled her up, "Tell me, what''s up? Huh? Who made you cry? Who is that capable?"

    Mu Chenyan hugged her brother as if she found support and pointed at Grandfather Xiang, "This man made me cry! He made me cry like this."

    Xiang Hulin was surprised by this answer and looked at his father, "Dad, what did you do?"

    "Nothing," responded Grandfather Xiang lightly. "I just thought she should cry here instead of cryingter in front of the younger generation. They won''t be able to ept the wreck she bes when she really sheds tears."

    Mu Chenyan gave him a hard re but with her red eyes and tear-stained face, it had a very different effect.

    Xiang Hulin looked at his father helplessly, "Dad, of all days, can''t you not bully Chenchen today? Mom would not like it. Don''t be mean to my sister. That''s not good."

    Grandfather Xiang sighed and beckoned Mu Chenyan, "Come here."

    Mu Chenyan hesitated but still went over. He patted her head lovingly and said, "Why are you crying? This is so not like you."

    "I was already sading here. You made it worse for me."

    "I know. It''s all my fault. How can I not understand your feelings when this dayes every year? But my dear daughter, you''re the strong and brave daughter we raised. I don''t like seeing you cry and neither did your godmother. Calm down a little. I''m still here."

    "Then don''t talk about leaving too," she still mentioned it persistently.

    "I said I''ll try."

    "You''re not trying hard enough."

    Grandfather Xiang pinched her nose, "Go and wash your face. How embarrassing it is to cry like this!"

    Mu Chenyan hmphed at him and walked away. Xiang Hulin followed behind her and asked, "What''s wrong? What did Dad say to make you cry like this?"

    Mu Chenyan turned to look at him and told him honestly, "He said I should be prepared to say goodbye to him for good. Because no matter how we drag this time, it''ll eventuallye and I will have to say goodbye to him. He said of all people here, I''m gonna have the most difficult time saying goodbye to him when the timees. So, I should be mentally prepared for a day without him in the future."

    Xiang Hulin didn''t know what to say at the moment. He didn''t even know how tofort her in this situation. "And it''s not even the first time, he is telling me this. He''s been doing it for a while now. But I''m not okay with it no matter how many times he says it. Is it that easy to ept this truth? No, it isn''t. I don''t know what is worse. Suddenly having to say goodbye to my godmother or watching my godfather''s health deteriorating slowly in front of my eyes. I really can''t tell which one hurts more."

    Xiang Hulin hugged her in his arms and let her cry for a moment. He patted her back soothingly and said, "It hurts either way. Doesn''t it matter which one is worse? When the pain and the void it''s gonna leave is the same. Don''t take his words to heart so much and make yourself a emotional wreck. When did you get so sentimental?"

    "I am emotional when ites to people I love. And he... He is my father! He raised me."

    Xiang Hulin didn''t say more because he understood her very well. He really didn''t know how tofort her but he could give her a hug. It was this silence hug that he felt like she needed the most right now. "Shh... That''s enough now. We don''t know what''s in the future. But he is still with us. So, stop hurting yourself with fictional scenarios. Everyone has to leave eventually. Can you be sure that it''d be Dad would leave first or it''d be one of us? You can''t be certain about this."

    What else could he say right now? He could only think of this. One thing his father said right, it''d really be this sister of his who is gonna be hit hard once something happens to Xiang Tianyu. Even if he was sitting in that wheelchair for years, his existence, his presence alone was a huge support to her. Mu Chenyan pulled out of his arms and took a deep breath, "Right. He is still here. I still have a father. Why am I crying? I''m no longer a kid who needs a father. I''m already so old. If I had married at the right time, I might even have a grown up kid of my own. It''s really not my age to cry for my parents."

    Xiang Hulin patted her shoulder, "There is no age for missing your parents. No matter what time or what age you are at, no one can me you for missing or crying for your parents. Parents are just that kind of a special existence in this world."

    Mu Chenyan gave him a strained smile and turned to wet a towel with the cold water before cing it on her face. It was so embarrassing to cry like a kid. What the hell happened to her emotions today?

 Chapter 1297 Quite An Honor

    Chapter 1297 Quite An Honor

    "I thought it was Grandma''s death anniversary," said Shui Xian to Raelle. "Did I hear it wrong or did someone purposely mislead me?"

    Raelle gave him a look and told him, "You should have been smarter. Everyone knows my Grandma died soon after my birth. My birthday is still a few months away. So, why do you think her death anniversary is in this month?"

    Shui Xian went quiet as he realized that he really was looking for trouble for himself. He really didn''t pay attention and had been thinking that it was a death anniversary. But no one even corrected him!

    The rain had stopped a while ago. It was gone as unpredictably as it came. And that''s when they went to Grandmother Xiang''s grave. And it was only after entering the cemetery that Shui Xian learned that it was Grandmother Xiang''s birthday.

    He felt like she had a fate with her great-grandson. After all, their birthdays were right next to each other. And if heard rightst time, Justin was actually born at 23:56 pm. And that meant if he had waited just a few more minutes, he would have shared the same birthday with his great-grandma.

    He could only sigh at this fate.

    Shui Xian looked at the photo of Grandmother Xiang on the tombstone. She looked so gentle, elegant, and kind. This picture of hers had a different vor than the one from her wedding day. At that time, she exuded lively and youthful energy. But in this picture, her personality seemed to have mellowed down. It was true. She really changed over the years.

    Seeing Shui Xian in a daze, Raelle held his hand in her own, "Where are you lost?"

    Shui Xian gave her a stiff smile and shook his head in response. In fact, he was feeling very ufortable since he came to the cemetery. Looking at this kind-looking woman''s photo, he was unconsciously reminded of his own grandparents.

    "Wan, look how many people came to see you this time," said Grandfather Xiang in a soft voice that only he could hear. "I brought all our grandchildren. And I even brought a surprise. Do you see? We have a great-grandson too. I don''t know about you but I did not expect to live long enough to meet another generation of our family. This great-grandson seems to have a strong fate with you. Even your birthdays are right next to each other. So, I hope you bless him from over there and protect him too."

    His eyes lowered as he tried to keep his emotions in check. It wouldn''t be good if he teared up too on this day. There was no shame in tearing up in front of his wife but it won''t look good in front of the younger generation. He wasn''t embarrassed to tear up but he knew if he lost control of his emotions, everyone behind him will start feeling ufortable seeing him like that.

    "Wanwan, I brought our son too without your permission. I know you said you would never see him again. But after oveing my own emotions, I realized that perhaps, that was just your impulse. You loved Ah-Lin so much. How could you not want to see him again? That''s why I brought him along. I must say, it feels good to see all the family together. And it makes me miss you even more too."

    Mu Chenyan and Xiang Hulin were the two people standing on each side of Grandfather Xiang. Even if they purposely kept some distance from him, they could still hear his soft voice. Mu Chenyan looked away while Xiang Hulin just stood there with his head lowered. Taking a deep breath, Grandfather Xiang brought every one of them to his side to introduce to his wife. As if she was just right there in front of him. He took this job way too seriously. For instance, when he introduced Shui Xian, he said, "Wan, meet your grandson-inw. He is our Yenay''s husband. He is a good boy. A little too romantic and whimsical but overall, he is a good person."

    Shui Xian didn''t know how to react to this introduction. But it didn''t sound all that bad. Besides, everything was true. He was indeed a bit too romantic and whimsical. What Grandfather Xiang didn''t say was that he was also very sticky to his wife. He didn''t think there was anything wrong with that at all.

    On the other hand, when it came to introducing Hyson, he said, "Oh, this one shouldn''t even need an introduction. I''ll just tell you his name. Meet Yue Fai. My dear little prince."

    "That''s all," asked Hyson to him. "Opa, really? I have so many good qualities you can mention."

    Grandfather Xiang smiled at him, "But we don''t need to. I have told her everything about you. She knows you already. This might be her first time seeing you, but there is nothing about you that she doesn''t know."

    Hyson nodded in response and bowed towards the tombstone saying, "Nice to meet you, Grandma Wan. I have also heard a lot about you. I think we are very familiar. I came here to specially pay my respect to you. Thank you for your bravery. Thank you for protecting Raelle. If you hadn''t done that, I wouldn''t have found the world''s weirdest best friend. And in turn, I wouldn''t have found a home too. So, thank you so much."

    Only Grandfather Xiang knew what he said since he was the only one beside Hyson right now. He stared at this silly fool, not knowing what to say. He didn''t expect Hyson would say this to his wife. But then it didn''t feel all that strange either. This was indeed something he could expect from Hyson. He patted Hyson''s arm and said, "We are also very grateful to have you as a part of our family."

    Hyson became all cheeky again as he responded, "Of course, I''m so awesome. It''s an honor to have me."

    Grandfather Xiang smiled at him, "Indeed. Quite an honor it is."

 Chapter 1298 Piling Up

    Chapter 1298 Piling Up

    "What did you tell her?" asked Raelle when Hyson came back to her side.

    Hyson gave her a look, "I said her granddaughter is very annoying."

    "Right. I agree. Wai is indeed annoying."

    Hyson gaped at her in disbelief, "Ellie, I am talking about you. Don''t pretend like you don''t know."

    Raelle shrugged.

    After every one of them paid their respects, they were pulled back by Mu Chenyan. Because she knew it was time to leave Grandfather Xiang alone with his wife. He''d always liked to silently spend some time with his wife when they came here and she didn''t want to disturb him at all.

    She turned to others and said, "You all can leave the cemetery. Just look around."

    Noticing her serious expression, no one said anything and turned to leave. Mu Chenyan looked for her brother and found that Xiang Hulin was paying respects to his grandparents right now. It had been so long since he was allowed inside this cemetery. Of course, he wanted to pay respect to each and every person lying here. After all, the cemetery was filled with Xiang''s ancestors. "Aren''t you leaving?" asked Mu Chenyan to Xia Zhao.

    "Where am I going? I think I''m good here," he replied calmly. Even though she applied a cold towel to her eyes, she still found hide from his sharp eyes that she had cried earlier. He didn''t tease her or even point it out. He just pretended like nothing happened. He knew it was wise to stay silent today. If it was any other time, he might be in the mood to tease her but not today. He''d neverugh at her for crying because she missed her godmother. That''d be very rude and hurtful too. And he always tried his best not to get her hurt. It was already a habit engraved in his bones.

    Mu Chenyan just stood there looking at the lone figure of Grandfather Xiang sitting on his wheelchair in front of his wife''s tombstone. She was all too familiar with this scene. She had been seeing it for years. And yet, she couldn''t get over it. He still looked as lonely as he did the first year Grandmother Xiang died. She didn''t see him as helpless the day he was told he might not be able to walk again as much as he did when his wife died. She remembered it all too well. There wasn''t a single detail that she had forgotten over the years.

    "How do you think it feels when the person who promised to walk with you till the end of time left you halfway?" she suddenly asked out of nowhere.

    Xia Zhao looked at her and took some time before replying, "It feels like you''ve betrayed. Abandoned, perhaps. And of course, there is no doubt that the pain is immense and immeasurable."

    "Then do you think it''s worth it?" she asked. "To hold someone''s hand when that person is eventually gonna leave you behind?"

    "It''s always worth it," replied Xia Zhao. "I have said it before, if love is worth it. Then the pain thates along with it is always worth it too. Just because of fear, you can''t deprive yourself of the happiness."

    "I hate seeing him like this," told Mu Chenyan. "Whenever wee here, he bes so vulnerable and weak that I am almost unable to recognize him."

    "Love makes you vulnerable. Especially in front of the person you love. What''s wrong with that?"

    "Why do you talk like this?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "Like what?"

    "Like you know everything," she replied.

    "Maybe I do know everything."

    "Oh, that''s why it took you years to realize that you are in love with me?"

    "At least, I figured it out before you. What about you? Until I didn''t knock you off your feet, you didn''t even have a clue about your feelings."

    Mu Chenyan scratched the tip of her nose, "I don''t know what you''re talking about. Don''t distract me."

    "I''m distracting you? You brought it up," he reminded her.

    "I don''t care. It''s still your fault."

    Xia Zhao sighed to himself and nodded, "Yes, it''s all my fault."

    "It is, right?"

    "Yes, it certainly is my fault for falling in love with an unreasonable woman."

    "I am very reasonable!" she retorted as she red at him.

    "Oh? Why can''t I see that?" he asked.

    "You can ask anyone," she said.

    "You are always unreasonable in front of me. Why should I believe what others say?"

    "And whose fault is that now?"

    Xia Zhao gave her a helpless look, "Again, it''s all on me. Right?"

    "Yes!" was her response in a very matter-of-factly manner.

    Xia Zhao shook his head at her, "Okay, okay. I''ll just take the mes. You keep piling them up on my head. It''s not like it''s anything new anyway."

    "It certainly isn''t anything new," said Mu Chenyan knowingly.

    Seeing that Grandfather Xiang turned to leave, she walked to his side.

    "I''ll help you, Father!"

    Gandfather Xiang paused and looked up at her, "How many times have I told you to not wait for me here? And you even pulled Zhao along with you this time?"

    "I didn''t ask him to wait with me," she replied. "He did it on his own."

    Grandfather Xiang waved her off, "Okay, don''t talk to me. Leave me alone. I know you want to talk to your Godmother. So, go away. Stop being an eye sore here." He turned his head to look at his son and beckoned him over, "Youe here and help me out of here."

    "Yes, Dad!" said Xiang Hulin and hurriedly came to help his father.

    Mu Chenyan watched them leave and turned towards the tombstone saying, "Did you hear that? You husband just called me an eyesore? Can you believe that? Can you? Because I can''t! Maybe it''s because he has so many grandchildren around him now that he is bored of me. Look how pitiful I am without you here. How could you leave this pitiful me alone in this cruel world? You promised to protect me!"

 Chapter 1299 Lets Get Married

    Chapter 1299 Let''s Get Married

    Xia Zhao just stood there listening to her acting pitifully in front of her godmother''s grave. He was really helpless but he also felt bitter inside. One could imagine how much she missed this woman. But it was out of her control too. After all, this woman had a huge impact on Mu Chenyan''s life.

    "Your habit ofining hasn''t changed, eh?" Mu Chenyan ignored hisment. Of course, her habit didn''t change because she didn''t want to change. Here she felt like she could talk about anything without any burden. She didn''t have to be cautious here. She didn''t have to be the responsible Mu Chenyan here. She was allowed to be just a little girl.

    She didn''t have so many things to say even when she went to her own parents''s graves. But it was also understandable. Their bond with her wasn''t as strong as her godmother''s. "Auntie must be super tired of listening to you."

    "No way," she retorted. "My godmother never gets tired of me. She loved me so much. How could she ever be tired of me?"

    "I suddenly have a thought."

    "What?"

    "It seems like you treat Yue Fai the same way Auntie treated you."

    "I learned to be the best godmother from her," replied Mu Chenyan. "I think if she hadn''t loved me the way she did, I wouldn''t have known how to love Fai. I learned a lot from her. A lot. But I''m still different from her. I don''t beat Fai."

    "Auntie didn''t beat you too," reminded Xia Zhao.

    "There is something wrong with your memory, Zhao!" said Mu Chenyan. "She chased me all over the house with her feather duster."

    "Because you broke her favorite vase while ying basketball in the living room even when she reminded you three times to go outside to y."

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips and couldn''t refute for a moment. She thought of something else and added, "Oh, what about the time she threw her slipper at me?"

    "You threw your cold medicine down the drain," said Xia Zhao. "You should be d that she at least waited for you to recover from the cold before picking up her slipper to beat you. See, how much she cared about you?"

    "It was too bitter and I was certain that I could recover from the cold without that medicine."

    "What about the time you set her dress on fire?"

    "It was an ident. An ident."

    "You also lost her engagement ring that she loved very much."

    "I spent the entire night looking for it too."

    "And you also pulled Hulin along with you to work with you."

    "That''s my brother. I can order him around. You can''t tell me otherwise."

    "I definitely can''t. Since I also worked as your ve."

    Mu Chenyan gave him a look, "Are you here to remind me of all the wrongdoings of mine?"

    "I haven''t even begun yet," he said. "You know we can spend a week talking about all the troubles you caused and inparison how nice Auntie had been to you."

    Mu Chenyan pouted, "Well, she was indeed very nice. Or else if she was like my maternal aunt, she would have already thrown me out of the house when I made my first mistake."

    "Why are you bringing up unimportant people?"

    Mu Chenyan shook her head, "It just suddenly came to my mind." She took a deep breath and said, "Aren''t you gonna say hi to my godmother? You haven''t seen her in so long too."

    "I just came to say hello to herst month," replied Xia Zhao surprising her a little. "You did?"

    "I did. I brought her favorite flowers."

    Mu Chenyan''s eyes narrowed as she asked, "Are you the one who has been bringing her flowers over the years?"

    "Yes," answered Xia Zhao honestly. "Whenever I passed by here, I''de to see her."

    "Tsk. No wonder she used to say you''re a very filial person and I didn''t agree."

    "No, you''re right. I am most unfilial person to my parents."

    Mu Chenyan didn''t want to bring this topic up. It''s not like she didn''t know anything about his differences with his parents. He wasn''t that unfilial too. He was always there when his parents needed him. Even when his mother faked her illness a hundred times, he''d still go to see her. Even if he knew all too well that she was just faking it.

    She suddenly took his hand in her own and looked at the tombstone saying, "You see this? I really ended up holding this hand. I thought I should bring him here to announce this news since you had been the person who wanted us to be together for a very long time. You even made a bet with me that I''d hold this hand no matter how much I say I don''t want to."

    Xia Zhao patted her head and said, "Auntie, you don''t have to worry about anything now. I will keep my promise. Since I was able to hold this hand, I''d never let it go. I''ll love her and I''d try my best that she doesn''t miss you too much. I can''t say she won''t miss you at all because that will be impossible. I can''t take your ce in her life, but I promise to love her mora than anyone else."

    "Are you here to meet her parents?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Why are you making these promises like you are asking my hand in marriage?"

    "If she was really here, I might really ask your hand in marriage right now."

    "That''s so old-fashioned thing to do."

    "Yes, I''m not as cool as you and not so trendy too. Don''t you already know that though?"

    Mu Chenyan sighed, "Indeed, I know it all. I chose this boring one on my own."

    "I don''t think there isn''t a better option than this boring one," he said being a bit narcissistic.

    "I had many options," she told him. "It''s just that, it''s true that none of those options could love me more than you. And no one knew me better than you. I didn''t have any fear around you. I don''t have to be cautious or pleasing. I don''t have to change anything. If anything, I can even let out my vulnerabilities and fears without any thought."

    "You seem to trust me too much."

    "I trust myself. And I know that you don''t dare dislike me."

    Xia Zhao smiled in response, "Right. How will I survive if I disliked you?"

    "Correct! I''ll break your knees if you dared to dislike anything about me."

    "Yes, yes. My knees and I won''t give you that chance."

    Mu Chenyan smiled happily and suddenly something came to her mind. She turned to look at him and said, "I feel like this is the worst ce to say this but it''s also a right ce at the same time." Xia Zhao gave her an inquisitive look, and silently waited for her to continue. He wondered what she was going to say that made her look so serious all of a sudden. "How about we get married?"

    Xia Zhao felt like he had a very stable personality and nothing could easily shake him. But right now, he was truly shaken for a second.

    "What did you just say?"

    "I said, let''s get married."

    Xia Zhao didn''t respond immediately but just looked into her eyes, trying to understand her mood. Was this an impulse or was she really serious? "What? You don''t agree?"

    "I agree," he replied immediately. "I have no reason to say no. Why would I say no? Even when it was just about responsibility, all I thought about was to marry you back home. And now, it''s about my love for you. How can I refuse? I feel like I have waited for this for far too long already. I wouldn''t wanna wait any longer."

    "That''s what I think too," she said. "It''s just as you told me before. We really don''t have another twenty years to waste. We aren''t even sure if we have another day that we can waste. Because who knows what tomorrow is gonna bring. But today, at this very moment, in front of my godmother, I truly feel like I want to marry you. I have nothing fear and nothing is holding me back anymore." She took a pause and added, "Godmother said one day when I fell in love, I''d understand why she was so impulsive enough to dig a trap for Godfather just so she could get close to him. Why she wanted to bind him to herself without any regret. I seem to understand a little now. I also wanna tie you to myself. I didn''t like thest incident of just any womaning up to say that she was your fiance¨¦."

    Xia Zhao did not expect this surprise at this moment for sure. He looked in to her eyes lovingly and tucked her hair behind her ear, "Then let''s get married. I''m always ready for it."

 Chapter 1300 Cold Feet

    Chapter 1300 Cold Feet

    Xia Zhao excused himself and stepped aside to make a phone call. As soon as the phone connected, he said, "Grandfather, I''m getting married!" As he listened to the answer from the other side, his excitement slowly decreased. "Grandmother, I did not deceive any poor orinnocent girl. You can''t call her innocent for sure. Because trust me, she isn''t such an innocent one."

    He patiently listened to his grandparents speaking and sighed, "Why do you think I''m joking? It''s not a prank. Have I ever done such a thing before?" He was a little frustrated, "You don''t believe me?" After hearing the response, he snickered, "You made all those excuses just because you wanted toe over and meet her? You could have just said so. Anyway, let me ask her first."

    He again spoke after a few seconds, "Yes, I do have to ask her first. What if you guys scared her? Even if she isn''t easily scared I can''t take the chances. Let me ask. I''ll give you an answer after that. Bye!"

    He rushed back to Mu Chenyan''s side who was staring at his back intensely, "What are you up to?"

    "I was calling my grandparents. I promised them that they''d be the first one to know if you said yes one day," he replied.

    Mu Chenyan was a bit baffled.

    "Oh, they want to meet you," he added. "Do you think it''s possible? You don''t have to meet anyone else from my family. Only my grandparents would do. I just want them to see you. Is it okay?"

    "Howe I never noticed that you be cautious around me?" asked Mu Chenyan. "I be a little more unreserved around you and you be cautious around me. Quite strange, no?"

    Xia Zhao also paused and contemted it. It did seem like that was the case. "I just don''t want to make you upset," he answered.

    "But that doesn''t help. I still go berserk without a reason. I really don''t reason for losing my temper with you."

    "True." He did agree with thatpletely. "Oh, did you just avoid my question?"

    "Huh?"

    "If you don''t wanna meet my grandparents, just say so. There is no need to avoid it by distracting me like this."

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips thoughtfully, "It''s not exactly that I don''t wanna meet them. I have always wanted to see what kind of people they are. If they didn''t live in ''seclusion'', I would have visited them long ago."

    "Then what''s the problem?"

    "There is no problem."

    "Are you getting cold feet?" he inquired.

    "No way," she responded. "If I said we are getting married, then I mean it. I mean it with all my heart. No doubt whatsoever."

    Xia Zhao nodded along to her words, epting her word for it.

    She took a deep breath and said, "Fine. Bring it on. If I''m ready for it, I can''t take a step back now. I have to meet your grandparents. So, let''s meet them this time."

    "Are you sure?" he asked again for confirmation.

    "I''m sure. Don''t annoy me now by asking over and over again."

    "Alright."

    He took out his phone to send a message to his grandparents. He seemed very happy as they walked out of the cemetery hand in hand. Mu Chenyan could feel his good mood radiating from him even if he kept a straight face right now as usual.

    "I am not having a wedding ceremony," she told him.

    Xia Zhao turned to her, "That''s something Raelle would say. And you had been trying to make her wedding ceremony a grand affair. Do you have to have such double standards?"

    "Well, it''s fun to arrange things for her. But if I have to go through it myself, then no thanks. I don''t feel like doing it. Besides, Raelle is young. Do you even remember how old we are?"

    "No matter how old we are, I still don''t think we are old enough to not have a wedding ceremony."

    "Why are you going against me?" she asked weirdly. "Is it because I said yes to marriage and you think you can change? But mind you, we haven''t gotten a certificate yet. Anything can change."

    "I''m not going against you. I''m just making my point clear. I don''t think we are so old that we can''t even have a wedding ceremony. I don''t mind getting a marriage certificate. It is enough too. But I still would love to see you in a wedding dress. Let''s not make it a grand affair like Raelle''s wedding but we can have an intimate ceremony. Can''t we?"

    Mu Chenyan didn''t respond immediately. She really had some double standards. In some matters like a street race, she didn''t think she was old but when it came to a wedding ceremony, she felt like she was too old for wearing a wedding gown. And it''s not like she ever had a dream of wearing a wedding gown and walking down the aisle. But once she thought about the scene of walking down the aisle with Elder Xiang, with Xia Zhao waiting for her at the end, she was suddenly not all that repulsed to the idea of this wedding ceremony. Yes, she could do that. She really could.

    "You don''t have to answer me right now. We have time. You can think slowly and calmly. Consider everything before replying. We are only getting married once. Why not make it memorable? Don''t you love the wedding photo of your godparents hanging in the main hall? Won''t you wanna have one of your own?" He took a pause and added, "I don''t wanna force you or emotionally manipte you or anything. But I''m pretty sure Uncle Tian would definitely want to walk you down the aisle. Even if he never said it over the years, you know very well how much he had been looking for forward to your wedding."

    Mu Chenyan sighed to herself, "If you say it like that, I won''t even be able to reject this idea."

    "I''m justying down some facts before you. The rest is up to you. If you really don''t want to have the wedding ceremony, I don''t mind. It''s no big deal to me anyway."

 Chapter 1301 Follow My Instructions

    Chapter 1301 Follow My Instructions

    Everyone didn''t leave for the house first but were waiting outside the cemetery. Seeing the scenery around, some were just dazing around, anyway, everyone was up to something for sure.

    "What are you doing?" asked Raelle as she came to stand behind Hyson.

    "Watching the rainbow," came the response from not just Hyson but also Justin who was standing beside Hyson.

    Raelle did not expect the two of them to answer in such sync and with the very same expression too. It almost felt like she was looking at the same person. But she shook off this bizarre idea immediately. After all, no matter if it was personality, habits, or even just the mannerisms, these two were very different. Justin was such a polite, shy, and quiet boy while Hyson was like a whirlwind.

    "Really? You both were so engrossed in watching the rainbow that I thought there was some kind of a miracle happening here."

    "Rainbows are like miracles too," said Justin.

    "I agree," Hyson nodded his head heavily to indicate how serious he was.

    "There is no pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. If that''s the miracle you both are looking for," said Raelle.

    "Don''t rain on our parade here," said Hyson.

    "But there is no rainbow without a rain," reminded Raelle.

    Hyson shooed her away, "You go away. Don''t talk to us. I don''t want you to ruin our mood." He picked up Justin from the ground and put him around his neck saying, "And you, little man, how''s the view from this height?"

    "It looks better!" said Justin. "My neck won''t be tired from looking up now."

    "That''s right. See how considerate I am. It means I''m the best Uncle in this family. You gotta remember that."

    Justin smiled to himself but didn''t respond. He wanted to hold something sitting around Hyson''s neck so he held his ears.

    "Ouch! You can''t hold my ears."

    "Oh," he responded and held his hair instead.

    "Not my hair too," said Hyson.

    Justin looked to be in a dilemma. Then he put his hands around his face covering Hyson''s eyes.

    "How am I supposed to look if you cover my eyes?"

    "Then what should I do?" asked Justin with a pout, feeling aggrieved.

    Hyson held his legs tightly saying, "Don''t do anything. Just sit there easily. I''m holding you tightly. I promise, I won''t drop you."

    Justin slowly eased up and continued to chat with Hyson happily again.

    Raelle looked at their interaction and inconspicuously raised her brow. Until just yesterday, her best friend wasn''t all that familiar with Justin and now, Justin was even willing to have a conversation with him? Sometimes, she was forced to believe in Hyson''s charms. Or else she couldn''t exin it in any other way.

    Suddenly, Xiang Wai also came over but she held her phone in her hand and was trying to take a picture of the sky.

    "Now, what are you doing?" asked Raelle.

    "I want to send this rainbow to Yanjun for good luck," replied Xiang Wai.

    Raelle stared at her behavior and finally said, "Are you okay? I mean, mentally?"

    "I''m perfect!" said Xiang Wai. Thinking of something, she put her phone into Raelle''s hands, "You take my photo too with the rainbow in the background. I think I''ll be able to bring more good luck to him."

    "Do you believe in luck?" asked Raelle. "Aren''t you a soldier? Aren''t you supposed to believe in science? What about being materialistic?"

    "It''s because I''m a soldier that I''m forced to believe in luck," said Xiang Wai. She pointed at her chest and added, "I got stabbed right here on a mission. I thought I''m gonna say goodbye to this life. But can you imagine the odds that the knife didn''t pierce through my heart? It was this close to piercing it but I survived."

    "Maybe the stabber didn''t use enough force or he missed."

    "And that also adds to my luck. He was a international criminal. There was no doubt about his skills. He missed only because my luck was on my side that day. I can''t exin it in any other way. I really can''t." She took a pause and added, "I have plenty of such stories from my missions. If you want to, we can sit down with a can of beer to talk about it all. But right now, you help with the photo."

    "Why is everyone obsessed with photos?" asked Raelle as she started adjusting the angle and checking where the lighting would be better.

    "Because we as humans want to stop time. We want to grab it in our hands and never let go. But you see, that''s not possible. Pictures are the closest thing we can get to stopping time or capturing a moment in our hands. That''s where the obsessiones from."

    Raelle was momentarily distracted because she did not expect this answer from Xiang Wai. Anyone else but her. But it didn''t take her long to ept it either. After all, at the end of the day, this was still her own sister. Just because she acted a little dumb didn''t mean she was really not smart.

    It''s just that Xiang Wai didn''t like showing her smartness and would rather hide behind her created persona.

    "Stand a little to your left," said Raelle. "What''s with that ''V'' sign? Even I know that''s old fashioned. Come up with a better pose. Can''t you better than that?"

    Xiang Wai was frustrated, "Why don''t you just click?"

    "I''m the photographer. My words matter here. Not yours as the model. Stopining."

    "It''s my right to put forward my opinion."

    "But I don''t like your opinion. If you want a beautiful photo, listen to me. Follow my instructions only."

    Xiang Wai resigned to her fate and started listening to her instructions. When she looked at the end result, she was pleasantly surprised, "Oh my gosh! Sis, why didn''t you say you''re so good at it? I''d have let you be my personal photographer. What an honor for you!"

    "Looking for a fight?"

    Xiang Wai smiled at her sheepishly, "Not at all. But seriously, won''t you consider my offer?"

    "NO!"

    "Okay."

 Chapter 1302 Legacy Wont Die

    Chapter 1302 Legacy Won''t Die

    Xiang Wai patted Raelle''s shoulder, "Since you''re so good at it. Take a few more for me."

    Raelle swatted her hand away with disgust making Xiang Wai give her a toothy grin in response. Then she ran away.

    "Okay, I think this view is good. You can see the tea farm behind me. Take one here," said Xiang Wai.

    Raelle looked at her in silence for a minute without doing anything.

    "What are you waiting for?"

    Raelle finally held up the phone again to take a picture, "Move to your right a little."

    Xiang Wai moved to the right as she instructed, this time she didn''t doubt Raelle''s photography and was confident.

    "No. This is not the right ce. Go back to the original ce."

    Xiang Wai moved again.

    "It''s still not right. How about moving to the left some more."

    "Here?"

    "A little more."

    "Is it okay now?"

    "Yup! Perfect!" said Raelle as she clicked the photo.

    "Show me! Show me!" Like an excited kid, Xiang Wai ran over to see the photo but when she saw it, her lips twitched uncontrobly. "What is this?"

    "A picture."

    "Where am I in this?" asked Xiang Wai. All she could see was the beautiful view of the tea farm in the background. "You are not there? Did you acquire the power of invisibility?" asked Raelle.

    Xiang Wai pursed her lips, "You think this is funny?"

    "I didn''t evenugh," said Raelle.

    "You''re so dead!" said Xiang Wai as she tried to hit Raelle while Raelle ran away from her. And just like that, Xiang Wai was left chasing after Raelle with her loud voice ringing around. But no matter what she couldn''t just catch Raelle.

    This was the scene that Mu Chenyan saw when she came out to find them. She was dumbfounded for a moment. She held Xia Zhao''s arm and dug her nails into his flesh asking, "Does it hurt?"

    "It does sting a bit," he replied.

    "So this is real?"

    "It''s very real," he responded.

    Mu Chenyan looked baffled, "No way! Am I really seeing my Elle ying around like a kid?"

    "That''s exactly what''s happening here."

    "No, you don''t understand," said Mu Chenyan. "That''s Raelle Xiang. She doesn''t even want to run even if her life depends on it!"

    "She goes for a morning run every day."

    "That''s entirely different."

    Meanwhile, Hyson was also looking at this scene with interest. He found it quite baffling and funny too.

    "Are they kids?" asked Justin.

    "Every one is a kid at heart."

    "It looks childish but it looks fun too."

    "Wanna join?" asked Hyson.

    "Yes!" agreed Justin.

    "Let''s go then," said Hyson.

    Grandfather Xiang was sitting in the car. He hadn''t left yet but he still wanted to be alone so he waited for everyone in the car. That''s why it took him a while to see all his grandchildren ying tag. He was speechless but the next moment, a feeling of relief washed over him. This was good.

    He knew that all his grandchildren missed out on their childhood one way or another. There was so much missing for each of them and they didn''t have a normal childhood. But it relieved him to see that they all haven''t lost themselves. He smiled contentedly as he whispered, "I feel like I''ve done enough, Wan. It''s enough to see them all hereughing and ying. Sigh. Once Chenyan gets married, I''d be ready to meet you."

    "Okay, stop!" Xiang Weimin held back Xiang Wai who was still after Raelle. "Why are you even after her? What did Raelle do?"

    "I asked her to click a photo for me," said Xiang Wai.

    "And she helped you."

    "I''m not even in that photo."

    Xiang Weimin went silent and turned to look at Raelle who was being shielded by Shui Xian. "What do you have to say in your defense, Raelle?"

    "I never agreed to click a photo for from the beginning," answered Raelle. "She shoved her phone into my hand without asking for my opinion at all. However, seeing how pitiful she was, I decided to help click one photo. It seemed like she got greedy after that and wanted more. I can indulge her once out of pity, not all the time."

    Xiang Weimin rubbed his nose and looked towards the sky, not knowing what to say.

    "I''m not wrong," added Raelle.

    "My wife is never wrong!" said Shui Xian.

    "Are you bullying me just because my boyfriend isn''t here?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "You think I can''t bully you with Yanjun around? What can he do? He don''t even dare to move if Hyson tells him to do so."

    Xiang Wai rolled her eyes, "That''s because he pampers his brother. What''s wrong with that?"

    "Why are you guys so childish?" All of them turned to look at Justin who tapped on Hyson''s leg.

    "Up!"

    Hyson understood him and picked him up again.

    "It''s tiring to look up with all these tall people. I feel so small."

    Hyson chuckled, "It''s okay. Considering your genes, you''ll be taller than the rest here."

    "True but that''s far ahead in future," said Justin sadly. Then he turned to look at his two aunts, "Aunts, can we not argue over such small matters? Seems rather pointless and time wasting. Aunt Raelle just teased you a little, Aunt Wai. Can''t you handle this much teasing?"

    Xiang Wai pouted, "Nephew, you''re making me sound petty."

    "Because you are being petty," added Raelle.

    Xiang Wai rolled her eyes at Raelle, "Sis, I''ll let you go if you add anymore fire to it. I don''t wanna disappoint my nephew."

    "It seems my words are valued," said Justin.

    Hyson tousled his hair, "Where do you learn this all? Talk like a kid when you are a kid."

    "Treat me like a kid if you want me to act like one," responded Justin stunning Hyson once again.

    "Tsk. You deserve to be my sessor. I am d you took my baby throne and no one else. My legacy won''t die with you. I can rx now."

 Chapter 1303 Helpless

    Chapter 1303 Helpless

    "What the hell is your legacy?" asked Xiang Wai. "Don''t teach my sweet nephew bad things."

    "I''m not the one using bad words in speech," replied Hyson. "So, who is teaching bad things here? Me or you?"

    Xiang Wai red at him but Hyson ignored it. "I won''t talk to you. We are going home. Let''s go, Justin."

    "Let''s go!"

    Xiang Weimin looked at their backs and asked, "Did my son just forget all about me?"

    Raelle patted his shoulder, "Hang in there. Hyson''s charm is real. Even Justin couldn''t escape from it."

    Xiang Weimin sighed helplessly.

    "What are you all standing here for?" came Mu Chenyan''s voice. "If you''re done ying, let''s go home. I''m hungry already."

    "Coming, Aunt!"

    All of them got back in their cars and went back to the house for lunch. Since so many of them were here, the kitchen prepared a sumptuous meal for lunch. But most of the dishes on the lunch menu were Grandmother Xiang''s favorites. It had always been like this over the years.

    Seeing the dishes, Mu Chenyan paused and said, "I forgot to change the menu."

    She and Grandfather Xiang always reminisced together while eating Grandmother Xiang''s favorite dishes. But she didn''t think the kitchen staff would still keep it the same when there were so many people around.

    "It''s okay. There is no taboo that they can''t eat it," said Grandfather Xiang. "You need to stop worrying about small things."

    "Yes," agreed Mu Chenyan. Once she settled down, she started picking food for her nephews and nieces in order, "Weimin, try this sesame oil chicken. I remember your grandmother used to feed you this a lot. Wai, you try this dry stir-fried green beans. Eat more veggies. Don''t be picky. My Elle would like this soup dumpling. Be careful of the hot soup. Don''t burn your mouth. And my dear Fai should eat this steamed eggnt because he is on a diet."

    Hyson''s face fell and he looked at her pitifully as if he was about to cry immediately.

    Seeing his expression, she couldn''t hold back and said, "Okay, okay. Don''t look at me with those eyes. I really can''t handle those eyes of yours. Here. Eat this steamed fish head with chopped salted chili."

    Hyson''s smiled bloomed and it made Mu Chenyan happy too. When she looked down, she found that Xia Zhao had also picked all her favorites for her. She smiled to herself and didn''t say anything.

    After everyone finished eating and were about to leave the dining table, Mu Chenyan stopped them all. "I have something to announce."

    "What is it?" asked Xiang Hulin.

    Mu Chenyan looked at Xia Zhao and then looked at Grandfather Xiang, "I''m getting married."

    "What did you just say?" the question came from Raelle.

    "I said I am getting married!"

    The scene suddenly went silent before it became extremely chaotic with someone dropping the chopsticks down while some cursing under their breaths and someone straight up pped the table. And this one was Xiang Hulin.

    "Chenchen, say it again? I think I am hearing thing."

    "Ge!" Mu Chenyan sighed at her brother but still said it again. "I said I decided to marry Zhao. Why? Is it that difficult to ept?"

    "No, it''s a bit unbelievable," replied Xiang Hulin. Mu Chenyan ignored him and looked Grandfather Xiang instead who asked, "Did you tell your godmother?"

    "I did."

    Grandfather Xiang nodded to himself, "It''s good."

    "You agree?"

    "Why would I disagree? This match was personally approved by my wife. Who am I to disagree? I saw iting but it''s sad how it took so long for us to get here. Anyway, all is well that ends well. So, all I can say congrattions! You have made a good decision and I''m sure you won''t regret it too. You just have to be happy. Because I just want to see you happy at my age."

    Mu Chenyan silently listened to him without interrupting him and nodded along in agreement.

    Then he looked at Xia Zhao and added, "I know you are a responsible man. You have always been responsible and there is no doubt about that. And I also know you''re very patient with our Chenyan. I hope you can be this patient with her in the future too. She might not be a great person but she has a beautiful heart. I can assure you of that."

    "I know," answered Xia Zhao. "Yes, you sure know. There is nothing about her that you won''t know. It''s good that you''re her partner. At least, now someone will be there to wipe her tears."

    Mu Chenyan gave him a look, "Really? That''s what you have to say."

    "It''s difficult for me tofort you once you start crying. There are only two people who are good at coaxing you in their own ways. One is your brother, Hulin and the other one is right beside you, Zhao. At least, I can never coax you."

    "You just never tried hard enough," said Mu Chenyan.

    "I tried once and you cried even harder. So, I decided not to take that risk again because I really don''t like seeing your cry. It doesn''t even suit you."

    "The person who makes me cry the most is also you," reminded Mu Chenyan. "If you don''t talk nonsense, I won''t cry either."

    "Yes, yes. I''m wrong. It''s all me."

    Mu Chenyan looked at his indulgent expression and was very helpless. She couldn''t do anything with him so she decided to just stay quiet instead.

    Yue Yue came to Mu Chenyan''s side and hugged her tightly before saying, ''I''m so happy for you. It''s so great that you''re finally thinking about yourself. When is the wedding? What kind of theme should we choose? I''m telling you, I''m gonna prepare everything for you. You better not stop me!''

    Mu Chenyan gave this one a helpless look too. What could she do with all these people? Was it a miracle that she agreed for marriage? She didn''t think it was such a big deal.

 Chapter 1304 Revenge

    Chapter 1304 Revenge

    Raelle came to tap Yue Yue''s shoulder and said, "Don''t worry, Yue! I''d help you too in this." She looked at Mu Chenyan, "After all, it''s my Yanyan''s wedding. How can I just watch, right? I have to do my best for her. To make an unforgettable moment."

    Mu Chenyan could literally hear the rm bells ringing in her mind when she heard Raelle''s words. It was tantamount to dering revenge! Yes, this was tant revenge for how she had been pushing Raelle around for her wedding. How could Raelle let her escape?

    Mu Chenyanughed awkwardly, "There is no need for that. We nned on getting a certificate only."

    "No," said Raelle. "How is that enough? If the daughters of the Xiang family are getting married, there has to be a spectacle for people to talk about for years toe. Don''t you agree, Yanyan?" Before Mu Chenyan could say anything, she added, "Of course, you agree. Aren''t those the words you said to me? You won''t go back on your words, right?"

    Mu Chenyan wanted to spew out some curses to let out her emotions right now. She didn''t think her Elle would do this to her. She didn''t leave her a way out. How sad!

    Grandfather Xiang also spoke up, "Yenay is right. How can we just get a certificate? Zhao, you can''t treat my daughter like this. I don''t allow it. I, Xiang Tianyu, only have one daughter. How can I entrust her to you with this attitude? It''s uneptable! I didn''t raise my daughter so that she could be mistreated like this. I believe she deserves better."

    Xia Zhao raised his hands in defeat, "Uncle, you know me. Getting just a certificate would never be my idea. I value Yan Zi a lot. How can I be willing to mistreat her? If possible, I''d like to follow all the etiquette. And I''m sure my grandparents would want that too. But Yan Zi isn''tfortable with a wedding. So, I can''t really go against her either."

    "No!" said Raelle. "There has to be a wedding. It''s not up to Yanyan this time!"

    Mu Chenyan closed her eyes and took a deep breath, "Elle, do you have to do this to your Yanyan? I loved you so much. And you''re doing this to me?"

    "That''s why I say, one should always think about the future before doing anything. When you made me do things against my wishes, you always said, it was for my own good. Now, I''d like to give those words back to you. How can you miss out on having an unforgettable wedding?"

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her head tiredly. She really shot herself in the foot. But when she was doing it all to Raelle, she really didn''t think she''d have it today. Sigh! It was all her conceitedness that became her fall. That''s why a person should always be humble in life.

    "Okay," said Mu Chenyan. "I agree. But... We''ll only have a small ceremony. An intimate gathering of family and friends only. I repeat, ONLY! After all, I''m not that young. So, let''s not make it a big deal. Can wepromise on this much, darling?"

    Raelle contemted for a while before saying, "Fine. I''m okay with this. We canpromise this much."

    "Thank you!" Mu Chenyan breathed a sigh of relief. "But, why are we even arguing about this? I haven''t even met Zhao''s grandparents yet. What if they didn''t like me? So, nothing is set in stone here, right?"

    Everyone turned their attention to Xia Zhao who made his stance clear, "My grandparents have no problem. They just want to meet you. There is no intention of evaluating you or anything, Yan Zi. They already know about you enough."

    Mu Chenyan suddenly paused and looked into his eyes, "They know everything?"

    "They know everything," he replied.

    "Everything?" she emphasized.

    "Everything." He lowered his voice to whisper into her ear, "Even your deepest darkest secrets."

    Mu Chenyan was stunned frozen. "Can we cancel the meeting now?"

    "I don''t think so."

    "Damn it!"

    Mu Chenyan felt like crying now. She did not doubt Xia Zhao''s words at all. How could she have any doubts? But it was truly embarrassing to meet Xia Zhao''s grandparents, knowing that they really knew all her secrets. There was nothing about her that they didn''t know.

    But the only constion was that, despite knowing what kind of a person she was, they were willing to meet her. And from what she observed earlier, it seemed they were too excited to meet her too. It meant they were satisfied with her, right? She shook her head, why was she even thinking about all of this?

    She never had to worry about others'' opinions before. Now, she was so concerned about what she looked like to Xia Zhao''s grandparents. In Hyson''s words, love is poisonous for sure.

    It is so damn poisonous!

    "Why do I think you all are waiting to see my joke?" asked Mu Chenyan as she looked at her nephew and nieces.

    "Don''t just think, Yanyan. Have faith in yourself."

    "Godson, even you?"

    Hyson grinned to her, "I can''t help it. Sorry!"

    "When are you meeting Zhao''s grandparents?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    "Whenever they are ready toe," replied Mu Chenyan and turned to look at Xia Zhao who was checking his phone. "Say something."

    "It seems they areing here today," he replied.

    "What?" Mu Chenyan was taken aback, she thought she''d have some time for buffer. All of this was going too fast for her liking. Oh damn, she has never hated fast speed so much in her life! Is it the retribution for liking speeding? Oh, she did not like this.

    Xia Zhao gave her aforting smile, "They seem over excited so they areing today. But don''t worry, we''ll only meet them tomorrow. You can slowly let this sink in."

    "You are not giving me time to let anything sink in."

    Xia Zhao gave her an apologetic look, "Sorry! They waited too long for this. So, I can''t refuse them. Do you want me to tell them not toe?"

    "No!" said Mu Chenyan. "Today or tomorrow. It doesn''t matter. It''s gonna happen anyway."

    "So, you''re fine with today, right, Yanyan?" asked Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan gave her a look, "I''d still like a break for today."

    Xia Zhao caressed her back, "We''d only meet tomorrow. Not today. They''d just settle in today."

 Chapter 1305 Murderer

    Chapter 1305 Murderer

    After that, Grandfather Xiang asked Mu Chenyan and Xia Zhao to follow him. Xiang Hulin also decided to join them. "Ellie, do you wanna eat grapes?" asked Hyson.

    "Why?"

    "Let''s go and get some grapes from the grapevine. Fresh! I think they''d be super delicious."

    "Where is it?" asked Raelle.

    "In my yard," answered Hyson as he pulled her along.

    When he brought her there and looked back, his lips twitched at the people who followed.

    "I only called my best friend," he said.

    "Ie in a package with your best friend. Don''t you remember that, Fai?" asked Shui Xian shamelessly.

    Hyson didn''t have anything to say to him, "Okay. What about you guys?"

    "I also wanted to eat grapes," said Xiang Wai.

    "Justin wanted to see the grapes trellis," said Xiang Weimin.

    Hyson rolled his eyes at them and shook his head. He walked to the grapes trellis and showed it to Raelle proudly, "How is it? Isn''t it beautiful? This is my yard. It''s more beautiful than you. My Opa arranged it for me, after all."

    "Did you bring me here to share your grapes with me or to show off?"

    "Whichever one you like," he said.

    Shui Xian took a bunch of grapes and went to wash it before bringing it to feed his wife. He pulled her to sit on the stone table that was ced under the grapes trellis and fed Raelle one grape at a time leisurely. He had to say, this was a beautiful arrangement. Grandfather Xiang really put some serious effort into it. It only showed how much he valued Hyson.

    "There is a swing too," came Xiang Wai''s voice. "Wow! Grandpa is really partial. Ge,e and push me!"

    "Shouldn''t you let Justin sit on it? What kind of an aunt are you?"

    Xiang Wai red at Hyson, "Okay, sorry! I forgot!"

    "You forgot your nephew? What a shame!"

    Xiang Wai took deep breaths and said, "Oh, I''m sorry! It''s my first time being an aunt. Spare me!" She turned to Justin and asked, "Do you wanna sit on the swing, cutie?"

    Justin looked at her and said, "Okay."

    "Come with me," said Xiang Wai as she held his hand and took him to the swing. She put him on the swing and pushed him hard.

    "Don''t throw him!" came Xiang Weimin''s voice. "Go easy. He isn''t you."

    "Oh," responded Xiang Wai and slowed down her pace. "Did I scare you, Justin?"

    "It''s okay," said Justin. "But let me get used to it first. I don''t wanna fall. It hurts."

    "I''ll be careful," said Xiang Wai and sighed. It was so difficult to take care of a kid. Why did she think it was all about having fun? Oh, it was not so nice to be an aunt. It was tough. So tough!

    "I clearly remember, I called you here to enjoy the fresh grapes," said Hyson when he looked at the sticky scene between Raelle and Shui Xian. Where one fed and the other ate so pleasantly. "And I am enjoying the fresh grapes," replied Raelle.

    "It''s all my fault," he said. "Why did I bring you all here? Wasn''t it good to enjoy these grapes all by myself? Why did I do this to myself?"

    "Most of the troubles in our lives are invited by ourselves," reminded Shui Xian. "But it''s easy to invite the trouble and difficult to shoo the trouble away."

    "Yeah. I understand that very well."

    "What''s on your mind?" asked Shui Xian.

    "I just find it weird that my godmother is getting married," told Hyson.

    "It will take some time to get used to it," said Shui Xian.

    "I know. It took me a while to get used to Raelle''s marriage. Now, I''ll take my time with Yanyan''s marriage. It''s a bit odd."

    "Why do you think it''s a bit odd?"

    "I can''t exin it either."

    "Is it the fact that everything around you is changing?" asked Xiang Weimin as he sat down with him. "Right. Everything is changing. Everyone''s rtionship status is also changing. And I am standing right where I was."

    "Don''t worry, I''m with you," said Xiang Weimin as he ced his hand on his shoulder.

    Hyson pushed his hand away and said, "Ge, you jumped straight to being a father. You cheated! You took the biggest jump around here. Who are you to say that you''re standing right where you were?"

    Xiang Weimin rubbed his nose and didn''t know what to say in response.

    "Hey, what''s in your pocket, Ge?" asked Hyson.

    Xiang Weimin pulled out the slingshot and told him, "Justin had it. So, I took it from him."

    "Why? You won''t let him y with a slingshot? How cruel of you! How can you deprive your son from the right of experiencing new things? Do you know how fun it is to shot pebbles at those leachers'' bums with the slingshot?"

    "You have quite some experience, Fai!"

    Hyson smiled proudly, "I do!"

    "Well, I feel sad. I only have experience of shooting down birds with my slingshot."

    "OH MY GOD! MURDERER!"

    "Don''t exaggerate so much, Hyson," said Raelle and then turned to Xiang Weimin. "But you''re right. Murderer!"

    Xiang Weiminughed at their reaction and said, "Try staying in a forest for training. Much less birds, you''d have to hunt snakes and even rats to eat to survive."

    "Okay, I don''t know this person. Disgusting!" said Hyson as he looked like he was about to throw up. He calmed himself down, "But I can disown you too. It''s because you''re a soldier so I''d let your behavior slide. Or else, I hate bird killers!"

    Xiang Weimin chuckled, "I know how much you love birds. You don''t have to tell me that. And I don''t have to do that too. I''m mostly in the sky. I only ate those things when I was training or when I was stranded. Otherwise, I''d definitely not hunt these things to eat. Especially birds. They are truly too innocent for me to bring myself to eat them."

    "I don''t believe you," said Hyson. "But as I said, I''d let this slide."

 Chapter 1306 Good Example

    Chapter 1306 Good Example

    "You are really not gonna let your son y with the slingshot?" asked Shui Xian to Xiang Weimin.

    "He is young," replied Xiang Weimin. "We will think about it once he gets a bit older."

    "You are talking like it''s dangerous," said Shui Xian.

    "Isn''t it?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "You should not be the one saying that," replied Shui Xian. "You are someone who ys with guns and daggers. You are finding slingshot dangerous for your son? That''s called double standards."

    "Times are different for everyone," said Xiang Weimin. "When I was young, kids loved outdoor sports. They liked having fun, being mischievous, and causing a whole lot of trouble. Now, kids seem to like their tablets and mobile phones more. It''s already surprising that my son is interested in nts and books. But he isn''t really a sporty guy. At least, not right now. It can change when he grows up a bit but for now, he really likes staying indoors."

    "What''s wrong with being indoors?" asked Hyson. "My best friend spent her entire childhood cooped up in a library. She turned out pretty fine. There are ws but we can overlook them. And after spending all that time inside, she didn''t even be a vampire who was scared of the sun. Look, she is sitting here under the sun without any fear of getting burned."

    "Hyson, do you know who else is afraid of the sun?" asked Raelle.

    "I know. Ghosts. You don''t have to tell me that." Thinking about what he discussed with Shui Xian in the morning, he changed the topic, "Ellie, we need to talk."

    Raelle gave him a look. "Now, what?"

    "Let''s go hiking!"

    "No."

    "I''m not asking. I''m informing you."

    "I thought it was a discussion."

    "I don''t do discussion with a stubborn fool like you. If I say we are going then we are going. If you disagree, I promise you, I won''t let you go."

    What can you do to my wife?" asked Shui Xian.

    "She knows very well what I am capable of. Don''t forget, I''m the person who has spent years studying you. I know how to annoy you the best. So, if you disagree, I''ll start my harassment."

    "That''s not what friends do, I believe," said Raelle.

    "But that''s exactly what best friends do," came Hyson''s response.

    "Can''t we find another way? Why do we have to go hiking in the mountains? What''s fun in that?"

    "You go for a run every morning," reminded Hyson. "I have yet to understand what''s fun in that. I assure you, my hiking trip would definitely be more fun. And if I''m in a good mood, I might take you treasure hunting too."

    "Treasure hunting?" asked Raelle.

    "Yup," he answered. "Sounds interesting, right?"

    "Okay, you have me intrigued. I''d like to see your treasure."

    Hyson fist-bumped Shui Xian, "It''s done!"

    Raelle looked at the two of them and said, "I should have known it was your idea, husband. You could have asked me yourself." "But I love giving some chance to our Fai," replied Shui Xian.

    "I thank you for your generosity," said Hyson.

    "Can I join?" asked Xiang Weimin. "Aren''t you too old for this?" asked Raelle.

    "Sis, I am not that old yet."

    "You became a father. That makes you in a different league from us," said Hyson. "Can your old knees take on the hike?"

    "Little bro, can you not do this right now? You guys, if I ask Dad, even he''d be up for hiking. Don''t underestimate our knees so much."

    "Ge, I remember clearly what your doctor said when you got injured on yourst mission. You stayed in the snow for so long. Are you really sure your knees will be okay?"

    Xiang Weimin stared at Hyson, "If you''re worried about me, say so. Don''t use your sharp words to hurt me instead."

    "You are made of steel. I don''t think you''ll get hurt with just a few words, Ge."

    "I am d you have such a tall image of mine in your heart."

    Hyson gave him a smile which wasn''t like a smile.

    "What are we nning here?" asked Xiang Wai as she came over with Justin in her arms. "Treasure hunting!"

    Justin''s eyes lit up, "Can I join?"

    "Of course, you can," replied Hyson.

    "I''lle too," announced Xiang Wai.

    "Who invited you? No, who are you?"

    Xiang Wai narrowed her eyes at him, "Can you let me go for once? Why do you love taking jabs at me so much?"

    Hyson shrugged, "Maybe because you arepletely different from Ellie. It takes a lot of effort to get a reaction from her. But with you, I get interesting reactions every single time."

    "I am not here for your entertainment!"

    "No?"

    "No! You have the wrong idea."

    "Then what use of mine are you?" asked Hyson. "No, we are not taking you on our treasure hunt adventure. You stay where you are."

    "Argh! I hate you!" said Xiang Wai.

    Justin looked at the two of them bickering with a very curious look in his big and innocent eyes. He actually seemed to be having a lot of fun just looking at these two. He didn''t think he had such a fun uncle and aunt.

    "You both are funny," hemented in his sweet voice.

    Both Hyson and Xiang Wai paused and stared at Justin.

    Shui Xianughed out loud. "Are you both feeling embarrassed yet or not?"

    Hyson dusted off his shoulder as if there was some dust there. Xiang Wai scratched her earlobe and looked elsewhere. She really felt a bit embarrassed just looking into Justin''s innocent eyes. But she refused to ept it. She''d never tell anyone that she was embarrassed.

    "Okay, stop pretending now," said Shui Xian. "Just stop embarrassing yourselves in front of the kid. The others are used to it already but spare poor Justin. What is he gonna learn from you two?"

    "True, you should set some good example for him to learn from," added Xiang Weimin.

 Chapter 1307 Tame

    Chapter 1307 Tame

    "I don''t think they both have any good example to set," said Raelle. "Or anything to teach Justin."

    "You are insulting me now!" said Hyson and Xiang Wai simultaneously. They both red at each other and added, "And that too in front of Justin!"

    "Then stop behaving like this. I know it''s normal for you both but it''s not something Justin is used to. Give the poor guy some buffer time to get used to your nonsense behavior."

    Xiang Weimin patted his son''s head, "Just ignore them."

    "But they are fun," said Justin.

    "It''s confirmed!" said Shui Xian. "You both are here for entertainment."

    Hyson turned to Raelle and said, "Ellie, I am such a versatile talent. You can''t say I have nothing I can teach Justin."

    "Me too! Do you know how many medals I have? I have so many things to teach to my nephew," said Xiang Wai.

    Raelle looked at Hyson, "What are you gonna teach him? How to be dramatic? How to be coquettish? How to wrap people around your fingers? Or how to annoy people?" Then she turned to Xiang Wai and added, "And you. What are you teaching him? How to cause trouble? How to start a street fight? Or maybe how to lose your temper and get emotional for no reason?"

    Xiang Wai gaped at her in disbelief, "Sis, you really don''t hold back, eh? Can you go easy on me for once?"

    "I don''t feel like it."

    "But my nephew is here. Leave me some respect in front of him."

    "I didn''t do anything. You are embarrassing yourself. I have no hand in this embarrassment at all."

    "For your information, I don''t teach people my good skills. Those are my unique charms and I don''t share the secret with anyone," said Hyson in his defense.

    "I also don''t like teaching people how to be me. I''m alone enough for all the trouble," said Xiang Wai. She red at Hyson, "If you had agreed to let me join the treasure hunt, we wouldn''t have reached this point."

    "If you hadn''t insisted on following us forcefully, it could have been avoided," was Hyson''s response.

    "And if you both stay quiet for a while, you can avoid making me say a few more words," came Raelle''s voice which silenced them both instantly.

    Raelle stood up and pulled Shui Xian as well, "Let''s go. I have had enough of fresh grapes here."

    "Grapes are sour for you today, Ellie!"

    "Hyson, do you really want me to continue?"

    Hyson shook his head, "No. Please, go away!"

    Seeing them leaving, Xiang Wai patted her chest, "Why do I feel a sense of relief washing over me?"

    "You''re traumatized," answered Hyson.

    Xiang Weimin also took his son and said goodbye, "I''m gonna show my son around. You both have fun together."

    Only Xiang Wai and Hyson were left staring at each other with a disgusted look in their eyes. Both of them were not happy with each other''spany right now. "Can you speak less?" asked Xiang Wai. "You brought us both into trouble."

    "I''m not the one who specialized in causing trouble. It''s you," reminded Hyson. "I can say less if you don''t get on my nerves."

    "I just wanted to join you guys. What did I do wrong?"

    "If you want to join someone next time. The right way is to be a bit polite and then ask if you can join them. Don''t forcefully rush into everything."

    "You just have problems with me, Fai! ept it!"

    "I never denied it. I''m an upright person. I don''t like you, I''ll say it to your face. What can you possibly do to me? Nothing. You can do nothing to me at all."

    "I was once a firm believer of the fact that first impressions can''t possibly be thest impression. That''d be like judging someone too fast. And I didn''t want to wrong people," told Xiang Wai seriously. "But after meeting you, I''m starting to believe that the first impression is thest impression. You just don''t change at all. Not at all. I find it quite shocking that you don''t change. You''re just as annoying as you were at our first meeting. Oh, and I still get the same feeling of wanting to punch your face every time I see you. See? Even my feelings haven''t changed."

    "And your courage hasn''t changed either," he said. "After all, no matter how much you want to punch my face, you don''t dare to touch this face. First, I won''t give you the chance to touch my handsome face. I didn''t spend hours getting a beating from Raelle for fun. Second, even if you managed to touch this handsome face, it will never end well with you. You''re scared."

    "I hate you!"

    "You said that already. Stop repeating yourself over and over again. I don''t have a fish memory like you."

    "My memory is just fine!" said Xiang Wai.

    "Okay, if you say so."

    "You don''t believe me," Xiang Wai pointed out.

    "Why do you want to make me believe?" asked Hyson. "Why do you care so much about what I think? You know Major, I think you really need to concentrate on yourself. Stop paying attention to what people say about you."

    "I don''t care about people. The problem is you are not people anymore! You are my brother!"

    Hyson paused and his lips curled up slightly but he soon changed his expression again and said, "So what? Your intention is to dominate this brother. I won''t give you that satisfaction. I am not that easy to tame!"

    "I''m waiting for someone to tame the wild beast you are!"

    "Continue waiting patiently then. That day hasn''te. That person isn''t born yet."

    "Huh!" Xiang Wai snickered in response to that. "What are you snickering about? Do you think I''m joking?" asked Hyson. "You really take me too lightly, sis!

    Xiang Wai smiled widely and pinched his cheeks, "Oh, this sister is happy to hear you calling me sis. Say it more until you get used to it. I''ll dote on you more if you be a cute little brother."

    Hyson pped her hands away, "Stop annoying me!"

    "Tsk. So moody! But it''s okay. I''m used to it now."

    Hyson gave her a look like he was looking at a fool right now.

 Chapter 1308 Wrong Company

    Chapter 1308 Wrong Company

    "Why didn''t you just call them home?" asked Mu Chenyan to Xia Zhao. "Why did wee to the tea house?"

    Xia Zhao stopped and turned to look at her, "They first want to see you. I have said that already. Only after that, they''ll go to see Uncle Tian."

    Mu Chenyan held his arm, "Give me a minute."

    Xia Zhao was amused by her reaction and couldn''t help touching her head. "Why are you so nervous?"

    "I''m not nervous!" she retorted. "I''m just not used to this. I have never cared about how people look at me. I have always taught the same to Raelle and Hyson too. But now, all of a sudden, I''m a bit unsure of myself."

    "But you are my confident Yan Zi," he said gently. "How can you ever be unsure of yourself? Did I fail? Where is this uncertaintying from? This is so not like you."

    "It''s my first time talking about getting married and having this ''meeting the parents'' experience. You can''t expect anything else from me right now. Your grandparents are even a generation older than my godfather. I have very little experience with people of their age group. The older generation isn''t exactly my fan."

    "How about you stop thinking and juste inside with me?" asked Xia Zhao. "You know, my grandparents called you here because they seem to have a history with this tea house. As I''ve told you, they are big fans of tea. So, the only thing that can make them excited is good tea. By that, you can tell how simple their requirements are. They are very easily satisfied in life."

    Mu Chenyan gave him a look of disbelief, "Do you even believe what you just said?" Because she certainly didn''t believe it for even a minute.

    "Yeah. Why not?" he asked.

    "They like quality tea. Not just any tea. Otherwise, they wouldn''te all the way here for tea. Xinji produces one of the best teas. And you are telling me, they are easily satisfied?" She was someone knew that people who were particr about their tea were actually very particr about the people they liked too. It was something she observed. And she would never doubt in her own observation skills.

    Xia Zhao argued with her over that and sighed, "How about we just go inside? Thinking won''t help. And do you know what else won''t help?"

    "What?"

    "Beingte," he replied. "They happen to be very particr about time."

    Mu Chenyan understood what he meant and nodded her head. She shook off all the random thoughts from her mind and walked entered the tea house. A young woman dressed in a qipao led them to the room where Xia Zhao''s grandparents were. She brought them to the door and left.

    Mu Chenyan didn''t even look around but just followed Xia Zhao with her head lowered, with countless thoughts on her mind. It''s not like she was new to this ce so she had curiosity towards how this aged-old ce looked.

    Xia Zhao lifted his hand to knock but Mu Chenyan held him back when she heard the voices from inside.

    "Lao Xia, can you do better than that?" came an elderly woman''s voice from inside.

    "Is this still not good? I think I have a pretty good smile," replied the elderly man.

    "I think you are nning on scaring away my granddaughter-inw with that smile of yours. I told you to look kind and gentle. That''s how old people look."

    "The old people I know don''t look like that."

    "You have thepany of the wrong people."

    "You''re calling my family the wrongpany?" The elderly man paused and added, "Oh, wait! I spent most of my time in yourpany. What would you say about that, my pretty Hui."

    "You better not call me that in front of my granddaughter-inw. I''ll be so embarrassed."

    "But you loved it when I said it before."

    "You were chasing me back then. It was different!"

    "Indeed, it was different."

    "Wait! Did you just say I am the wrongpany?"

    "Um... No."

    "Lao Xia, you''re getting worse with age." The elderly woam sighed tiredly. "Okay, stop it. Just try again. This time think about something pleasant. Smile kindly. Make your eyes look gentle."

    "How to do that now? How am I supposed to make both my lips and my eyes listen to my instructions at the same time?"

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips to hold back her smile. All her uneasiness from earlier had been forgotten. It seemed she should have believed Xia Zhao''s words when he said his grandparents were very cute and easy to get along with. Xia Zhao rubbed his forehead. He did not think they would run into this. He didn''t even want to look at Mu Chenyan right now. He was embarrassed for his grandparents right now.

    "I think, Hui, let''s forget it, eh? I''m not the kind, gentle, and saintly old man. That''s not me. You''re asking me to pretend to be someone I am not. It''s almost like deceiving people. Let''s be what we are in front of our granddaughter-inw. And we already know she isn''t some faint hearted little girl. She is a strong and brave woman. I think she will be able to ept us as we are."

    "Aren''t I just trying to make a better first impression?"

    "But it''s difficult. I give up!"

    "You didn''t even give up when my father put forward seven challenges for you."

    "I wanted to get my wife. And I could do anything for that."

    "Now, it''s your granddaughter-inw. Can''t you put in some effort?"

    "It''s not me who is needed to put in effort. It''s that useless grandson of yours who took decades to bring us this granddaughter-inw."

    "Don''tin about my grandson! Or you''ll be getting the cold and silent treatment from me."

    Xia Zhao couldn''t hear anymore and knocked on the door before announcing, "We are here!" He looked at Mu Chenyan''s smiling eyes and held her hand to take her in.

 Chapter 1309 Dreams And Delusions

    Chapter 1309 Dreams And Delusions

    Mu Chenyan looked at the old couple who straightened up in a hurry. They looked up at her and smiled at her... kindly?

    Well, she had to say that they both weren''t very good at looking kind or gentle. It could be seen that they weren''t used to smiling in their daily life. Because, she could barely see any smile lines on their faces and considering that they were very old, it was truly a surprise to her. She really thought people of this age just naturally exuded kindness. But it was only now did she realize that it wasn''t the case.

    "Grandmother, Grandfather, meet Mu Chenyan," introduced Xia Zhao. "Yan Zi, meet my grandparents."

    "Hello!" said Mu Chenyan.

    "You both should stop smiling," said Xia Zhao. "It really isn''t helping."

    His grandparents stopped smiling instantly. Only now did their expressions look natural to Mu Chenyan. Now, she could see the real sharpness in Grandfather Xia''s eyes and the hidden carelessness in Grandmother Xia''s eyes.

    "Why don''t you both sit down?" said Grandmother Xia. "Don''t worry, Chenyan. You can rx. Calm down and be at ease. I''ve stopped biting people long ago."

    Mu Chenyan smiled a little, "You did bite once?"

    "Yes, during the war, I bit someone to..."

    "Grandma!"

    "Wife!"

    Grandmother Xia looked at her husband and her grandson who stopped her frompleting the sentence. "Grandmother, let''s not talk about your heroic deeds of the past," said Xia Zhao with a bit of pleading in his eyes.

    "I agree with Zhao. Wife, no talking about the past."

    "Oh," responded Grandmother Xia. She sighed to herself and looked at Mu Chenyanfortingly, "They must be tired of listening to my stories. Sorry about that."

    Mu Chenyan shook her head, "I love listening to old stories. I think I''d love to hear more."

    "I knew it," groaned Xia Zhao. It''s not that he wanted his grandmother to not share her past stories with Mu Chenyan. He just didn''t want her to do it right now because he knew once it began, they wouldn''t be talking about anything else. Besides, once he married Mu Chenyan, he believed his grandmother would have more chances to get a new listener.

    Grandfather Xia patted his wife''s hand and said, "We have a purpose to be here. Once these two get married, you can just sit with Chenyan and tell her all about your proud moments from your youth."

    "Are you saying, I''m old?" asked Grandmother Xia.

    "Hui, we are old!" was Grandfather Xia''s very straightforward response.

    "Sometimes, I wonder what did I see in you back then?"

    "Oh, maybe, my handsomeness. Or probably my bravery. I think it was both."

    "You were covered in blood when we met. Where did I see your handsomeness?" asked Grandmother Xia.

    "Then it must be bravery."

    "I don''t think so," she replied and looked away from him. She smiled awkwardly at Mu Chenyan, "Sorry. We get distracted easily. Don''t mind us old people. At this age, all we want to do is talk about the past. It makes us feel young again."

    "You both are a lot easier to get along with than I thought,"mented Mu Chenyan.

    "Were you nervous about seeing us?" asked Grandmother Xia. "Did Zhao not tell you about us?"

    "He did," answered Mu Chenyan. "I thought he was just trying to make me feel at ease."

    "How is that possible? I know my grandson very well. He isn''t capable of lying just for the sake of coaxing someone. He only speaks the truth."

    "I have too many honest people around me," said Mu Chenyan. "And I''m still not used to it."

    "Actually, we just wanted to see you. We heard so much about you but we never saw you in person. That''s why when Zhao said you agreed to get married, we couldn''t helping over here in a hurry to see you. We don''t have any other purpose. We would never doubt Zhao''s choice. And you are not just his choice anymore. He finally realized he loves you. And I apologize that it took him so long. I can''t even me him. Let me tell you a secret, this whole family has problems with love. It''s good enough that he managed to understand what he feels for you. I thought I''d see him die alone."

    "Grandmother, I''m your favorite grandson," reminded Xia Zhao.

    "And I''m embarrassed of you," she replied.

    "You always said you are proud of me."

    "You must have heard it wrong," said Grandmother Xia. "When are you guys getting married? Don''t think I''m rushing you guys but I am rushing you actually. It''s toote already. If I waited any longer, I might end up in a grave before I could see you guys get married."

    "Grandmother, don''t say that."

    "Why do you old people love talking about dying? Isn''t it good to live?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Grandmother Xia was amused by her words and said, "We old people have experienced everything. We have escaped death too many times already. It''s not like we can live forever. I don''t have any desire for that too. It''s tiring to live."

    "I thought with age, people get scared of death and start loving life more," said Mu Chenyan. "Isn''t that why so many emperors chased the dream of immortality in the past?"

    "Immortality is a delusion. Not a dream. Dreams are chased. Not delusions," said Grandmother Xia. "Besides, what''s there to fear about death? I have seen it so closely when I was younger. I was still not scared of it. Much less now that I''m so old and got to see this new world with my own eyes."

    "You have interesting thoughts," said Mu Chenyan. "It reminds me of your grandson. It really shows that you raised him."

    "My grandson is of course a great person. He is better than me."

    "I can never be better than you," said Xia Zhao. "Don''t say that, grandmother."

    "I agree with your grandson. He isn''t half as good as you," said Grandfather Xia.

    Grandmother Xia squinted her eyes at her husband, "You can be nicer to my grandson."

    "I''m already very nice."

    "I don''t believe you. Try better."

    "He doesn''t mind. Do you, Zhao?"

    Xia Zhao chuckled helplessly, "No. Why would I mind?"

 Chapter 1310 Stormy Nights

    Chapter 1310 Stormy Nights

    Honestly speaking, Xia Zhao really thought his grandfather treated him very well. Yes, he seemed a bit perfunctory and a bit distant too but that was just how he was. It didn''t mean he didn''t love his grandson but it was just his nature. In fact, he was only able to show his feelings to Grandmother Xia. Apart from her, he wasn''t very good at showing affection.

    That''s why Xia Zhao was used to it. But he was still able to understand his grandfather and he knew that grandfather loved him. "Ignore him," said Grandmother Xia to Mu Chenyan. "Don''t mind your Grandpa. He is old and has gone senile too."

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips to suppress herughter. Thisment was very unexpected but when she looked at Grandfather Xia''s expression, she found it rather cute. He was still looking at his wife with a doting look in his eyes which even he didn''t seem to notice.

    "Also, don''t mind our useless talk either. Wee from perilous times. Back then a lot of people had their love stories written on the war field. And a lot more stories ended there too."

    "I admire people from that time," said Mu Chenyan. "They were brave enough to fight for their country without expecting anything in return. You didn''t have to be a soldier to fight for your country. You could do it just to protect your family and friends from the enemies. The courage of people from that time is admirable."

    Grandmother Xia gave her a small smile, "You are also very admirable."

    "I am?"

    "You''re selfless, responsible, and very loyal. These traits alone are enough to make you an admirable person. And someone worthy of looking up to."

    Mu Chenyan bit her lip, "You really know a lot about me."

    "I think we know enough," said Grandmother Xia.

    "But I disagree with one thing. I''m not selfless. I can be very selfish too."

    "That''s not something bad," replied Grandfather Xia. "If anything, I like you more because of that trait. Selfless people are always trampled under too much pressure. Selfishness is not always bad."

    "Lao Xia is right," said Grandmother Xia. "I thought you won''t like me," said Mu Chenyan. "Aren''t you very serious about principles and rules? You even sever ties with your own son because of your principles."

    "We are not that rigid about everything," said Grandfather Xia seriously. "We are old. Yes, wee from conservative times too. And it''s also true that my n has been able to preserve the principles and culture of our ancestors too. But it doesn''t mean we are not flexible. The world is changing fast every second. Even if we live in seclusion far apart from the world, we aren''tpletely cut off from it either. The reason why we severed ties with our son was very simple. He broke the rules of the n. It''s uneptable when ites to morals and integrity. If it was anything else, we might have forgiven him. But he didn''t honor his promise and we don''t ept that."

    Grandmother Xia gave Mu Chenyan a reassuring look, "Yes, there are some habits of yours that we might not like. However, that''s different. Zhao loves you. That''s enough. Besides, there is no question about your character. You are very admirable. You honored the promise you made to your godmother on her deathbed and raised your niece like your treasure. I''d say you did an exceptional job. You took your responsibility seriously. How can we not like you?" She paused to nce at her grandson as she added, "Besides, we wanted you to marry Zhao for a very long time. It hadn''t changed over the years. We still think you''re the best choice for our grandson. Someone like a storm is necessary in his tranquil life. How else will life get exciting? If life is like still water, it isn''t interesting enough. It''s dead water. So, some turbulence is necessary to keep going."

    "Did you hear that?" Mu Chenyan elbowed Xia Zhao. "I''m the storm in your life."

    "Didn''t we already know that?" asked Xia Zhao in return. "You are indeed the storm. More like a tornado."

    "Thanks for thepliment."

    Seeing the smile on her grandson''s face, Grandmother Xia turned to her husband and whispered, "Did you look at that? I''m d your grandson learned to smile unlike you who can never get a smile right." She tsked, "I told you, love can subconsciously put a smile on your face. It''s indeed true that you didn''t love me enough. That''s why I could never see such a sweet smile on your face."

    "Wife, we are so old. Can you stop saying that?"

    "Why can''t I say it? I have regrets in my life too. Why did I like a guy with the facial paralysis?"

    "Because you thought you''d be able to share your sweet smile with me."

    Grandmother Xia sighed, "Indeed. I challenged myself to make you smile like me. In the end, you taught me not to smile like you. What a tragedy of my life. If my family hadn''t been lost in the war, they would have never let me get together with you. Your face alone would scare them away."

    Mu Chenyan noticed them whispering to each other in a low voice and smiled at Xia Zhao, "They have a very good rtionship."

    "I know," he answered. "I have always been envious of their rtionship."

    "They must have never fought."

    "Who said that? They fight all the time. Grandmother says fighting makes the rtionship stronger. Because only when you''re willing to coax each other, do you know for sure that the love is still alive. And that the person is worth the effort."

    "Are you telling me to fight more with you?" asked Mu Chenyan as she raised her brows at him.

    "As if we have any less fights now," he responded. "You''re already tired?"

    "No. No way. I''ll never get tired. I never even got tired of my boring life. Why would I get bored with a storm like you?"

    "Because not everyone likes stormy nights."

    "But I do," he said seriously. "I love stormy nights way too much."

    Seeing the intensity in his eyes, Mu Chenyan smiled to herself and avoided looking into his eyes that seemed to be burning right now.

 Chapter 1311 Hiking

    Chapter 1311 Hiking

    While Mu Chenyan went to see her future grandparents-inw, the others at home had already prepared their adventure gear. Seeing how they still weren''t going when the sun was so high up in the sky, Grandfather Xiang frowned.

    "Why are you guys still here? Shouldn''t you start hiking early in the morning? I know you guys n on staying the night in the woods but still, isn''t it better to start early?"

    "We are waiting for Yanyan," answered Raelle.

    "Why? She isn''t going with you guys."

    "No, but she''ll stay with you," replied Raelle.

    Grandfather Xiang sighed, "Am I a kid? Why do I need supervision? This is my family home. Even the house help here are people who have stayed with our family for generations. You have nothing to worry about. Just leave. Besides, your father is here too."

    "I seem to be not very trustworthy," said Xiang Hulin.

    Grandfather Xiang didn''t respond to his son but turned to the rest, "You all should go now. Don''t be an eyesore here. If anything, I''d love to be alone right now. You too, Hulin. Go and find your childhood friends or something."

    "I don''t think so," said Xiang Hulin. "You kids should really go. You have nothing to worry about. I am here. I''ll take care of my father."

    "Then we''ll leave Grandpa to you, Dad," said Xiang Weimin as he took the lead to walk out.

    "Take someone to show you guys the way," came Grandfather Xiang''s voice from behind.

    "Father, let them be. If they can''t even find their own way, then they better just stay home and not go out," said Xiang Hulin.

    "We can find our way, Grandpa," shouted Xiang Wai. "I''m good at this."

    "Says the person who can''t even see straight," said Hyson.

    "Let''s start this journey on a good note, bro!"

    "Sure!"

    And this way, the group started their hiking journey. They started slowly since it had rained yesterday and the path was still not easy to tread. However, no oneined. And they didn''t want to wait for another day too. So, this hiking had to happen today.

    "You better find me the treasure, little bro!" said Xiang Wai to Hyson. "Or I''ll be so pissed off."

    "I don''t care about your emotions," replied Hyson.

    "By the way, do we even have a map? How are we gonna find the treasure?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Even if there is a map, I won''t show it to you," said Hyson.

    "I want Uncle Fai!" said Justin to his father and opened his arms towards Hyson.

    "Oh, my nephew is so cute," said Hyson as he put him on his shoulders. Justin seems to love sitting on his shoulders now. "Don''t throw him. It''s not an easy path," reminded Xiang Weimin.

    "Don''t underestimate me, Ge!" said Hyson.

    "Sure," said Xiang Weimin. "My son is already stolen from me. I can''t believe it."

    "Don''t be so sour about it, Ge," said Xiang Wai. "It was something to be expected."

    "That''s so notforting, Wai!"

    "I wasn''t trying tofort you," she responded. "Raelle, why are you so quiet today?"

    "I don''t wanna waste my brain cells on talking to you," said Raelle. "Anyway, don''t you know? I don''t like talking that much."

    "Just say, you don''t like talking to me."

    "That too."

    "Oh, look what I found!" yelled Hyson from ahead and brought Justin to see his treasure. "Do you know what this is, Justin?"

    "What is it?" asked Justin curiously. "These flowers are sweet-scented."

    "These are honeysuckle," replied Hyson. "Do you know that honeysuckles are very magical? You can eat their flowers as they have antioxidants in them. They have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. And all species of honeysuckle have different medical properties. Interesting, right?"

    "Yes!" answered Justin with his bright eyes. "What else?"

    "Honeysuckles are the favorite food of hummingbirds."

    "So, if we stay here to wait. We can see hummingbirdsing here?" asked Justin.

    "That''s highly possible." He paused and added, "Honeysuckles have a long flowering period too. They bloom throughout the summer. I recently learned that they are used in natural skin care products too. It''s a very resilient nt too."

    "You know a lot," said Justin.

    "I have my specialties too," replied Hyson. "I only act like I''m stupid. In reality, I''m smarter than you think. I just hide my intelligence so that my best friend doesn''t feel like I''m overshadowing her."

    "You can talk without bringing up my name in your conversation," said Raelle.

    "But I can''t live without you, Ellie!" "That is so exaggerated," said Shui Xian. "But I''m still able to believe in it."

    Hyson chuckled in response. Justin pointed at the nt near Hyson''s feet and asked, "Is that mint?"

    Hyson looked down and nodded, "That''s indeed mint. In fact, this is wild mint. Do you know that mint can be used to get rid of mosquitos?"

    "Really?"

    "Yes. ce a bunch on your window sill and the mosquitos won''te inside."

    "Cool!"

    "Are we on a science trip?" asked Raelle.

    "No. More like natural science," replied Shui Xian.

    "Also, if you boil dried peach leaves, honeysuckle, and mint. It could be used to get rid of prickly heat."

    "How do you know even that?" asked Justin. "Do you know traditional medicine?"

    "No," answered Hyson. "This ismon knowledge in the countryside. You don''t have to be a doctor to know about these things."

    "Oh. It seems cool to live in the countryside. Can I go too?"

    "City kids should stay in cities. It''s not that fun in the countryside."

    Justin''s face fell when he heard that.

    Seeing this, Hyson said, "Fine. We''ll take you to visit and experience."

    "Yay!" "Why do I feel like I got tricked?" asked Hyson.

    "Because you did," said Raelle.

    "No way? Right?"

    "You did," emphasized Raelle.

    "How?" asked Hyson. "Where did he learn this trick?"

    "Your influence is already there," said Xiang Wai. "Where else will he learn from?"

    "Is it okay to me everything bad on me?"

    "I think it''s okay," said Xiang Wai.

    "Is it really okay, guys?" "No more argument," said Xiang Weimin. "Can''t you see where we are? Is this a ce to argue?"

    "There is supposed to be a specific ce for arguments?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "If you speak a little less, the sky won''t fall down."

    "What if it did?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Uncle Fai, tell me more about other things. What about that over there?" Justin urged Hyson to talk more. He seemed to be using Hyson as an encyclopedia of nts right now and Hyson was helpless about it too. He seemed to have done this to himself. He couldn''t me anyone else now. He could only go along with it.

 Chapter 1312 Make It Short

    Chapter 1312 Make It Short

    The group of them continued their journey with Hyson''s voice gently exining the origin of even wild nts to Justin patiently. Fortunately for Hyson, the others didn''t mind. Even if there wasn''t anything interesting around them, they didn''t mind since Justin seemed to be having fun. This kid''s interest was high today and he had so many questions. But then again, he always had questions. But before, he was just a bit shy. Now, he didn''t mind asking whatever came to his mind. "How far are we going?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "We didn''t walk that far yet," came Raelle''s response.

    "But the ground is not easy to walk after the rain yesterday. Of course, I''d feel like we had walked for way too long."

    "No, we just started an hour ago," replied Raelle.

    "Oh, mushrooms!" came Hyson''s voice.

    "Be careful, they can be poisonous," reminded Xiang Weimin.

    "Ge, I know that," said Hyson. "I know which ones are edible and I know how to recognize the poisonous ones."

    "Doesn''t everyone know that?" asked Raelle. "I also read a lot about it in books. And yes, I do know that it''s just a myth that the brighter the color of the mushroom, the more poisonous it is."

    "Oh, how knowledgable," said Hyson sarcastically. "Keep your theoretical knowledge to yourself. I don''t think we need it here. I have said so many times that things on paper and reality are different. Just because you know some theoretical facts, you ain''t an expert. Especially when you never even went mushroom foraging. So, don''t mislead the kid here."

    "Are you insulting my knowledge?"

    "No, I am just telling you to not act like an expert when it''s not your field of expertise," replied Hyson. Then he ignored Raelle and put Justin down to look at the mushrooms. He imparted all his knowledge of mushroom foraging to Justin in a low voice.

    "There is no doubt, he can survive in the wild," said Xiang Weimin.

    "What''s the use?" asked Raelle. "We don''t live in the wild. We don''t depend on the wild to live anymore either."

    "Too much knowledge doesn''t hurt," said Shui Xian. "Isn''t that what you say, Wife?"

    "Yes," agreed Raelle. "But I certainly don''t see a point in why we are here looking for mushrooms. If I''m not wrong, we came on a treasure hunt."

    "I thought you weren''t interested in the treasure," Xiang Wai pointed out.

    "I am not. But I''m not interested in whatever this is either."

    "Just go with the flow," said Shui Xian as he patted her shoulder. "Come, we''ll look at the beauty of nature. After the rain, the trees always have a different vitality. As if they havee alive. Listen to the silence in the woods. Then focus on the distant echoing of the chirping of birds. Don''t you see how beautiful it is?"

    Raelle followed his words and found that the woods seemed to have their own beauty to it. However, most of all, her attention was on Shui Xian''s excited face as he spoke.

    "Why are you looking at me? I told you to look at nature. Close your eyes and take a deep breath. Feel it."

    "Nah. I think you look more beautiful," responded Raelle straightforwardly leaving Shui Xian speechless for a moment.

    He pursed his lips and cleared his throat before saying, "Can we focus?"

    "I am very focused right now," was her answer.

    Feeling her burning eyes, Shui Xian rubbed his forehead and said, "Baby, stop looking at me like that. Because if you keep this up, I really won''t be able to look anywhere else."

    "Why?" she asked.

    Shui Xian hugged her waist and touched his forehead with hers saying, "Because how can there be anything more beautiful than you around here?"

    "I also think so," she replied. Looking at their flirting, Xiang Wai made a face and said, "I hate this trip."

    Xiang Weimin smiled at his sister and said, "Who told you toe?"

    "I came for the treasure."

    "You have done so many treasure hunts in life," reminded Xiang Weimin. "Aren''t you bored already?"

    "That''s for work. And I didn''t even get to pocket a single gold biscuit," said Xiang Wai resentfully. "And you think just because you didn''t pocket anything, the other team members were also that honest?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "They weren''t. So, I made them go through a body search," she had an evil smile on her face, looking quite proud of herself right now.

    "I''d expect something like that from you. It''s no wonder your team always has some displeasure with you."

    "We are working for the country. How can they only think about themselves? I have a very clear conscience."

    "Auntie, you have treasures?"

    Xiang Wai looked at Justin who was holding a bunch of mushrooms in his handkerchief and looked up at her curiously. Thinking that she was finally getting some attention from her adorable nephew, she was so excited. She calmed down herself and replied, "Yes. Auntie has gone on plenty of treasure hunts."

    "Really?" asked Justin.

    "Yeah. Well, most of those treasures were of course some sensitive information or stuff but Auntie has also found gold and jewels."

    "Where?"

    "Oh, it''s a long story," said Xiang Wai.

    "Then make it short and interesting for the kid," came Raelle''s voice.

    Xiang Wai''s lips twitched as she looked at her sister hatefully.

    "I have no experience telling stories to kids."

    "If you won''t try how will you learn?" asked Raelle.

    "I really wish no one has to deal with a sister like you," said Xiang Wai.

    "Don''t worry. No one is as lucky as you are."

    Xiang Wai snorted at that response. She really wanted to bite off something right now in anger. Why was her sister so annoying? So not cute!

    "Well, she isn''t exactly wrong," came Hyson''s voice. "There can''t be another Raelle. And even if there is, she can''t be as annoying as her either. We are indeed lucky to have you, Ellie!"

    "As long as you know that, Hyson!"

 Chapter 1313 Age Appropriate

    Chapter 1313 Age Appropriate

    "Oh, stop dawdling and tell the story already," said Raelle.

    Xiang Wai finally stopped bickering and turned to Justin. She softened her expression and said, "I''ll tell you the most recent one. It happened a couple of years ago. It was purely an ident. We were not exactly on a treasure hunt. We were on a mission to find someone. But things go out of control on missions like that and in the end, we had to run into the forest to hide. It was a long mountain range. We walked for four days but still weren''t able to find an escape route that could be considered safe. So, while hiding, we found a cave."

    "This is the worst storytelling I have ever heard,"mented Hyson.

    Xiang Wai gave him a look, "You can''t me me. It''s a code of conduct. I can''t exin the details of my mission or my mission target. In fact, I can''t even tell you who my teammates were. Honestly speaking, I shouldn''t even be talking vaguely about this right now. I''m already going against my conscience to speak just for my nephew."

    "You don''t have to go against your conscience," said Raelle. "I believe, Justin just wants to know about the treasure."

    "Yes!" came Justin''s response. "What happened in the cave?"

    "Actually, we didn''t think there was anything special about the cave. It was quite narrow and my team could barely fit into it to take shelter from rain. It happened on the second morning when we were nning on scouting the next route. The youngest member of the team identally slipped and held on to the wall of the cave. But guess what? Suddenly, a small part of the wall went in from the push and we were faced with aplicated ancient mechanism. Took a whole day to crack it and when we did, well, the stuff inside was worth it."

    "What was inside?"

    "Gold, lots of gold bars. Then there was silver, and jade of all kinds. There were also some ancient relics. Vases, calligraphy, paintings. You name it. Everything in that secret room was worth a lot of money."

    Justin looked thoughtful, "Did someone hide it there during the war years?"

    Xiang Wai gave him a surprised look, "Oh, how does our kiddo know about the war time?"

    "I have been reading a lot about the history of our countrytely."

    "Why?"

    "Because dad is a soldier. I need to know what country he is protecting and what kind of people live in it."

    Everyone was surprised to hear that answer from Justin and Xiang Weimin felt his heart swelling up with pride. He picked up his son and kissed his face, "My son is really great."

    "Indeed, you are good, kid," said Xiang Wai. "And to answer your question, no. Those things were not hidden during the war years. We found some of that stuff too before. This one looked different. It was more grand I would say. So, we did some digging and it waster learned that was the secret treasure safe of a prince from a certain dynasty. He seemed to have hidden all those assets for his rebellion but he was killed before he could act on it. We gave everything to the state and gotmendations for our work too. The story ends here."

    Justin looked at her strangely before saying, "Next time, don''t tell me a story. You really aren''t good at it. There was no suspense, no up and down, no excitement. Everything was so nd in your words. Who tells a story like this? How did you pass yournguage exam?"

    "How do you know I always struggled with mynguage exam?" asked Xiang Wai curiously.

    "I can tell."

    Hysonughed out loud and rubbed Justin''s head, "Even a kid can tell you''re no good, Major!"

    "Well, nephew. Your little aunt is worse than me. I can assure you that," said Xiang Wai.

    "Why am I being dragged into this again? What does this have to do with me? I didn''t even offer to tell a story," said Raelle.

    "Your day wille. Be prepared for it, sis," said Xiang Wai.

    Justin also looked at Raelle and asked, "Do you have any interesting stories, little aunt?"

    Raelle shook her head, "No. My life had been very boring. I don''t go on adventures in real life. I spent my life in the library. I seemed to like the smell of books better than the nature."

    "I can vouch for that," said Hyson as he raised his head. "The only adventure is her life might be the kidnappings she had to go through or escape from."

    "Kidnappings?" asked Justin.

    Raelle gave him a look, "That was unnecessary."

    Seeing Justin''s curiosity, Hyson bit his tongue. Indeed, he also felt it was very unnecessary. He pped his mouth so that couldn''t stay quiet and spill the beans.

    "You are too young to know," said Raelle to Justin. "When you grow up, I will share my experience with you. Is that okay?"

    Justin was also a very understanding kid and nodded obediently, "Then I''ll be waiting, little aunt."

    "Don''t worry, I won''t go back on my words."

    "I know that."

    "Why don''t you ask your father for some adventure stories?" suggested Shui Xian. "I believe he has a lot to share. Don''t you, Weimin Ge?"

    "I don''t particrly recall anything interesting enough," said Xiang Weimin. In fact, he had been thinking about this since Justin started asking Xiang Wai to share her stories. But what could he possibly say? Everything seemed inappropriate for someone of Justin''s age. It was either too bloody or too dangerous. And he didn''t want to tell this to Justin at all. It didn''t feel right. But he couldn''t stay quiet either. After all, he had to say something to his own son about his own heroic deeds. How else would his son look up to him? But what was age appropriate and also interesting? Hmmm...

 Chapter 1314 Camp Treasure

    Chapter 1314 Camp Treasure

    Xiang Wai took Justin to sit down on a rock to rest and started talking to him. "Dear nephew, by now, you should understand that the only fun person in this family is me."

    "What about Uncle Fai?" asked Justin.

    "He is the entertainer of the family. Don''t have high hopes," said Xiang Wai without any burden. "But me? I am the one who lived the most colorful life in this family. I might not have the talent for storytelling but I have a lot of stories to share. Fun and exciting stories. Alle from personal experience. Your father is a man of few words. He had never had fun even when he was young and the same is true for your little aunt. Your father spent time honing his skills to be a better soldier and your little aunt focused on books to be a cunning businesswoman. I, on the other hand, might be a soldier but before that, I was young. My youth stories are unmatchable. So, if you want to have fun in the future, you gotta have some close partnership with me. Only I can teach you what''s fun."

    "What nonsense are you teaching my son now?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "Ge, she said only she is fun in this family and only she can be Justin''s best partner in crime," told Hyson.

    "I didn''t get to the part of being the best partner in crime yet," added Xiang Wai.

    "But that was what you meant," said Hyson and Xiang Wai couldn''t refute his words.

    "You have done all the wrong things in life, what do you want my son to do?"

    "It''s because I have done so much that I can be a better tutor. I have experience so I can teach him better. I can show him the right path and I can even exin to him in detail why the wrong path is wrong in the first ce."

    "Someone is very eloquent today,"mented Hyson.

    "You don''t have topliment me like this."

    "I wasn''t."

    Xiang Wai narrowed her eyes at him and he gave a smile in return. "By the way, why are you guys so slow? If we kept stopping to rest like this when would we get to our destination?" asked Raelle.

    "This isn''t apetition," said Hyson. "It''s a leisurely and fun mountain hike. There is no need to be so serious about it, Ellie."

    "I am serious about everything in life," reminded Raelle to her best friend who seemed to have forgotten for some reason.

    "I wish you were this serious about our friendship too."

    "Don''t continue or I might identally push you down."

    Hyson took an exaggerated step back, "You wanna murder me to silence me so that people can''t know what you really are! I won''t let that happen. Ever! Dream on, you evil fairy!"

    "Evil fairy?" asked Shui Xian.

    "I can''t call her a monster or a demon now. No matter what, I can''t go against my conscience and say that she is ugly. And only fairies are beautiful." Hyson sounded so reasonable that he felt like patting his own shoulder for his own logic. What a beautiful logic he had!

    "But the story I readst time said demons are also very beautiful. Like fox spirits," said Justin in his childish voice.

    Hyson paused and had a moment to himself to think before nodding his head, "This is also right. Fox spirits are after human essence. I won''t say my best friend is that bad now. At most, she likes to eat my brain but nothing more than that."

    "It''s me who eats your brain or you who eats mine?" asked Raelle

    "It''s all the same," responded Hyson.

    "Oh my gosh! I found a wintersweet tree!" came Xiang Wai''s voice.

    "That''s something to be happy about? This isn''t even the season for winter''s sweet flowers to bloom. So, why are you so happy, Major?" asked Hyson.

    "Why can''t I be excited about this?" asked Xiang Wai. "I feel like I aplished something. Even if it''s a small thing. Anyway, it''s been a while since I saw a wintersweet tree. Sadly, it isn''t the blossoming season. They look so beautiful when they bloom covered in snow."

    "Wait, I''m already surprised that you even know about wintersweet tree," said Hyson. "You don''t seem to be interested in flowers."

    "I don''t wanna talk to you," said Xiang Wai.

    "How far are we from here?" asked Shui Xian. "I hear the sound of water nearby. If it''s far, let''s make a stop near the spring and find some fish to grill. What do you guys say?"

    "Xian Ge, are you hungry?"

    "Very," answered Shui Xian without any hesitation. "Why? I can''t be hungry now?"

    "I was just asking. Anyway, you don''t have to take a break. If you are able to hear the sound of the water, we are already close to our destination then," responded Hyson.

    "That''s good," said Shui Xian. "Then let''s hurry up and stop dawdling. We can rest once we get there."

    They started walking up the trail again and got closer and closer to the sound of the water. Finally, when they came to an opening and were able to see the water flowing down. "We are finally at our destination," announced Hyson. "Wee everyone to Camp Treasure!"

    "Where is the treasure?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Sis, really?"

    "Why else did Ie with you?"

    "You are impatient," retorted Hyson.

    "And I am feeling like you fooled me."

    "I didn''t invite you to this camping trip either," reminded Hyson. "It''s you got greedy and wanted to join."

    "Are you saying, I''m at fault here?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Don''t you think so? Everyone knows greed is a curse. But you had been focused on the treasure since the beginning. Think about the time you spent bonding with your nephew. Isn''t that more precious than any treasure?"

    Xiang Wai so wanted to argue with him but what he said was so beautiful that she couldn''t bring herself to say anything else. Forget it. He was right anyway.

 Chapter 1315 Peaceful Age

    Chapter 1315 Peaceful Age

    With this beautiful thought, Xiang Wai''s dream of treasure hunting was shattered instantly. She was really fooled by this fool! And the worst part was that she took the initiative to fall for his tricks. Hyson stood in front of all of them and pped his hands to get their attention as he said, "Listen everyone! Now, put down the little things you brought and go pick up your tents and set them up."

    "We have to set that up?" asked Raelle.

    "Ellie, this is especially for you," said Hyson.

    "Me?"

    "Yes. You see, everyone else here knows how to set up a tent except you."

    Raelle looked at everyone and settled her eyes on her husband who scratched his nose and smiled sheepishly, "I do know, honey."

    Finally, she moved her eyes to Justin and said, "He doesn''t know too."

    "Aren''t you ashamed topare yourself with a five-year-old?" asked Hyson.

    "You are making me sound like I can''t do anything," said Raelle. "Ellie, you were raised like a real princess by Yanyan. So, you always had finished products at your arm''s length. You did not have to go through the process. This... This is a real experience for you."

    "Why can''t I just pay someone to set this up for me?" asked Raelle.

    "As I just said, go through the process and you''ll understand the fun of it."

    "This is a useless skill," said Raelle. "I''m not even a fan of camping. There are so many insects around. So many inconveniences too. I still can''t understand people who love to go camping. I mean leaving thefort and convenience of your cozy home, you wanna go in the wild and experience what? How to make yourself ufortable?"

    "You talk too much. You can spend this time on better things. Like setting up the tent!" said Hyson.

    Shui Xian gave these two a smile and went to pick up the tent from the camping equipment that had already been prepared in this opening before they came here. He found the parts of a wooden chair, he took it apart, and fixed it. He brought the assembled chair to his wife and said, "Wife, you sit down and rx. I''ll set up our tent." He even took out a bottle of fresh juice from his bag that he carried up and offered it to her, "Drink this. You can take out a book to pass your time. I''ll fix this up in no time."

    "Xian Ge!" shouted Hyson in frustration. "What are you doing?"

    "There is no rule that says that we both have to set up the tent. Since it''s our tent, it''s up to us how we set it up. I can do it alone, so why should I bother my wife with these cumbersome things?"

    "Spoil her! You just keep spoiling her as if she isn''t spoiled enough."

    "Some people are born to be spoiled. And I''m willing to pamper my wife. What''s wrong with that? Once you find your life partner, you''ll understand that too."

    "I''m not interested," said Hyson hatefully before going to set up his own tent. But only then did he realize that Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai had already started working while he was arguing with Raelle and from the looks of it, they were halfway done too. Well, it wasn''t surprising. For them, it must be a verymon thing to set up a tent. Basic survival skills.

    Raelle heard everything that Shui Xian said to Hyson with interest and kept staring at him as he worked with undivided attention. He wasn''t as fast as Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin but it could be seen that he had experience. Raelle sipped on the juice and instead of taking out a book, she focused on him. She was watching how he set up the tent, how he set up their sleeping ce inside and set up some basic furniture. She didn''t know there were so many fancy camping equipment around these days.

    Shui Xian went to wash his hands with water and came back to ask Raelle, "How is it? I did a good job?"

    Raelle gave him a thumbs-up. "You seem to be experienced."

    "I do have some experience. Back in college, our friends group would go out on camping together. So, I know all this stuff. I guess it came in handy now."

    Raelle nodded her head in understanding. "What are we eating now?" asked Shui Xian. "Can we make something simple first? We''ll catch the fishter for dinner." He pointed at Justin as he said, "Justin must be starving by now too."

    "I am also hungry," said Justin in response.

    "Good thing, I brought some food for emergencies," said Hyson. "All we have to do is just cook it for a little bit."

    "Just say you brought ready-to-cook meals because you don''t know how to cook," Xiang Wai pointed out.

    "HA!" came Raelle''s voice. "You''ve been pointing fingers at me. What about you? You also can''t cook just like me. Who is the spoiled one now?"

    "I''m still more useful than you, Ellie."

    "How? You put me anywhere, I can make money!" "Imagine, just imagine that one day you wake up and it''s the apocalypse. Do you think your money is gonna help? I don''t think so."

    "It can help in buying supplies."

    "Only if you already know about the apocalypse. If ites suddenly, no one would give a damn about the money."

    "We live in a peaceful age," reminded Raelle.

    "But you never know what is gonna happen tomorrow."

    "If that is so, go over there and learn to cook."

    "You should do that too!"

    "I don''t feel like it now," said Raelle. "Anyway, my husband said what if I got hurt?"

    "What are you porcin?"

    "At least, I''m precious!"

    Xiang Wai sighed to herself seeing these two, "Oh my gosh! These two can really have a conversation that doesn''t even make any sense. I can expect it from Fai but not from my sister."

 Chapter 1316 Bait

    Chapter 1316 Bait

    Xiang Weimin and Shui Xian shared a look knowingly and said simultaneously, "Expect the unexpected with Fai around."

    Xiang Wai looked at the two of them and then burst outughing, "Indeed. I can''t refute your words." Then being unable to stay out of it, she called out, "Hey, Raelle! Fai! Actually, you both can''t survive the apocalypse and the reason won''t be yourck of cooking skills. I promise you that."

    Raelle and Hyson stopped and looked over at her. They changed their target almost instantly. "Major, my best friend is so good. Heaven would definitely bless her with the best superpower to survive the apocalypse!" said Hyson.

    "And you''re underestimating my best friend," started Raelle. "He doesn''t just know how to act cute or annoy people. He can be pretty resourceful when he wants to be. Anyway, even if he had no superpower, people would be willing to serve him like a prince."

    Xiang Weimin and Shui Xian shook their heads andughed once they heard this.

    "Why are you both attacking me together again?" asked Xiang Wai. "What are you two up to? Am I yourmon enemy?"

    "We won''t treat you like ourmon enemy if you stop keeping your eyes on us," said Hyson.

    "You have an unusual interest in both of us," added Raelle.

    "I have never seen clowns like you two before," retorted Xiang Wai.

    "Wai!" came Xiang Weimin''s call. "Don''t be rude."

    "How am I being rude here?"

    "That''s rude. You called little Aunt and Uncle Fai, clowns. They are so nice though," said Justin.

    "Fine. It''s my fault. I''m sorry," said Xiang Wai. She was just joking but she couldn''t do anything right now. Not in front of Justin for sure. Since her nephew has spoken, she''d just give in before a fight. "You need to keep in mind that we have a kid at home now," reminded Shui Xian. "So, there are some things that you can and can''t say. You don''t wanna be a bad influence on your nephew, right?"

    "I understand," replied Xiang Wai.

    "Xian is right," started Xiang Weimin. "This isn''t the army camp. This isn''t your team. You can''t just say whateveres to your mind without thinking about it anymore. It was fine before but as Xian said, we have a kid in the family now. So, make sure to start thinking before speaking."

    "I said, I understand. Geez! You all are being mean now." Xiang Wai huffed and walked away.

    "Come back here and eat before going anywhere."

    "I''m going to collect some firewood!" she shouted back.

    "We will do itter," said Xiang Weimin. "Come and eat first."

    "Oh."

    Hyson looked at Raelle who didn''t seem to be paying attention to anything right now. Because her eyes were looking skywards at the tall pine trees and the mottled sunlight that fell through the leaves. "What?" asked Hyson.

    "Why?"

    "Why what?" he asked again.

    Raelle moved her eyes to him and asked, "Why did you bring us here?" Before he could say anything, she added, "Don''t talk about treasure again or I''m gonna smack your face with that wooden stick over there."

    Hyson smiled at her, "But there is treasure."

    "Where?"

    "Everywhere," answered Hyson. "You just need the eyes to see that treasure. Do you know there is a saying that those who live in mountains are nourished by mountains? These mountains have raised a lot of people. People depended on them to grow up. So, I''m right when I say that there is treasure here."

    "What? Wild fruits? Mushrooms? Pine nuts?"

    "Everything. There are so many medicinal herbs here too. How about we go and look for ginseng together?"

    "You''re just looking for fun and you''re dragging me into it."

    "The idea was to just drag you but you won''te without Xian Ge, and then the number increased on its own. I didn''t bait them with the treasure."

    "How did you bait my husband?"

    "Just talked about camping in the woods and he was sold already."

    Raelle nodded in understanding when she heard that. It was really easy to bring Shui Xian into this n. Because Hyson knew what to say to get Shui Xian interested. Isn''t that why she said earlier to Xiang Wai that he could thrive in the apocalypse even without any special skill because Hyson knew how to talk and get things done?

    "Then what do you think?" asked Hyson.

    "About?"

    "Ginseng?"

    "Isn''t it better for you to go alone to look for that ginseng? Between you and I, your luck is top-notch. It has always been the case. You''re the lucky one. I can be considered unlucky considering how many times I got kidnapped."

    "So, let''s say I''m taking you with me to bnce our my heaven-defying luck. You bring your bad luck and I''ll bring my luck. Together, we''ll bnce out each other. This way, if we really managed to find the ginseng, I''d be truly happy with the achievement. Because it''d feel fulfilling."

    "Let''s just sit down, Hyson. Why do you have to look for something to do all the time?" asked Raelle. "I can''t match your energy."

    "Why do you getzy when ites to having fun?"

    "I don''t have the fun bone in me. Don''t you already know that?" Hyson gave her a look, "I don''t know about fun bone. What I know is that your doctor said it''s good for you to go out more and rx and unwind yourself. It''s very important for you to be in a good mood. You have to take time away from work."

    "I leave work on time. I go out on walks too. I even have dates with my husband."

    "Going on short vacations is different," said Hyson. "Walking does nothing to you. It has be a part of you. A routine. It''s not like your enjoy it. It''s a habit now. Almost an addiction."

    "No way!"

    "You stayed in the hospital and within couple of days you were looking for ways to go out on your daily runs. And you''re saying you are not addicted to it?"

 Chapter 1317 Skills

    1317 Skills

    "Lately, I just think you have a problem with me," said Raelle to Hyson. "You''re looking for trouble all the time."

    "Didn''t you name me trouble," reminded Hyson. "What makes you think I''d change?"

    "You bothe to eat too," called Xiang Weimin. Shui Xian brought a bowl of noodles to Raelle and said, "You have this."

    "Why is her bowl special?" asked Hyson.

    "Because Raelle doesn''t eat instant food. Also, since he is young, Justin has the same share and can''t eat these instant noodles. But you can share the instant noodles with us," said Shui Xian.

    "So much biasedness,"mented Hyson.

    "I can share mine with you, Uncle Fai," offered Justin as he extended his small bowl towards Hyson.

    Hyson smiled at this little one lovingly, "No, you eat it. I might be shameless but I don''t wanna snatch food from a kid. Also, you need to grow taller. Eat well and grow up fast. Then I''ll take you out on more camping trips to different ces."

    "I wanna learn piano too," said Justin.

    "Oh, when did you be interested in that?"

    "I heard Uncle Fai has won a lot of medals in piano. I thought it''d be fun."

    "If you wanna learn piano, the best teacher would be my mum." Hyson smiled to himself and then sighed, "But you can''tmunicate with her yet. So, I''ll take this arduous task. If you be interested in ying basketball, look for your Aunt Wai!"

    "Yes! I''m here for it!" said Xiang Wai.

    "What about Daddy?" asked Justin.

    "I''ll teach you how to fix a fuse? Or how to do plumbing? I can also do woodwork. What do you want to learn? I have a lot of other skills too." Hyson chuckled, "Ge, you look like those coaching center representatives. You''re trying to sell yourself here."

    "What can I do? My son is even willing to share his meals with you now. I feel so redundant."

    "But I like Daddy the most," said Justin.

    Hysonughed even harder, "Did you hear that, Ge? No matter how good I or anyone is, that person won''t be you. You''re his father. Have some faith in yourself and in your son." Then he turned to Justin, "By the way, what do you want to learn from your little aunt? She has no skills except for making money. How about you learn that from her?"

    Raelle didn''t even bother to talk. What was the point? Anyway, Hyson wasn''t exactly wrong. She really was good at making money but she had no other skills to talk about. But she wasn''t interested in other skills too. She didn''t think they were necessary.

    "What about Uncle Xian?" asked Justin.

    Raelle also looked at Shui Xian, "I can y guitar. I can y football. I''m very ice skating too. If I wasn''t injured in my childhood, I might have been an ice skating champion."

    "Xian Ge can do figure skating too," announced Hyson.

    Shui Xian was horrified when he heard that and asked in shock, "Where the hell did you learn that about?"

    Hyson giggled, "I have sources."

    "Don''t you dare mention it again?"

    "Howe even I don''t know about this, husband? I thought we had no secrets."

    Shui Xian looked at his wife, "Raelle, this secret was for me."

    "Huh?"

    "It was embarrassing. I don''t wanna mention anything about that embarrassing time. If possible, I''d like to delete that moment from my memory too."

    Hysonughed so loud when he heard that and Shui Xian rubbed his head. "Fai, this is not fair! You can''t do this to me," said Shui Xian.

    "You really hate that time so much?"

    "As if anyone would like that," retorted Shui Xian.

    "Why are you all talking in riddles? What''s the story? Hey, Fai, you tell me. Share some gossip with your elder sister too," Xiang Wai looked ready to hear some gossip right now and looked at Hyson eagerly.

    Before Hyson could say anything, Shui Xian covered his mouth with his hand, "I''ll just tell myself. You stay silent."

    Hyson blinked to show his agreement so Shui Xian removed his hand from his mouth and wiped it on Hyson''s shirt too making him gape at him.

    Shui Xian didn''t pay attention to his reaction and took a deep breath to share. "It happened before my sister was born. My father wanted a daughter badly and didn''t see eye to eye with me. One day, he took me ice skating. He put me in a tutu and even made me wear makeup and pony in my hair with a cute bear headband. So, it''s not that I can do figure skating, it''s just my father making trouble and creating embarrassing childhood stories to share with me. Worse part? My mother actually became a part of his joke and recorded everything in video and pictures. I think I removed everything but from Fai''s reaction, I believe B¨¤ tricked me again."

    "Tsk, tsk, tsk," was Xiang Wai''s genuine reaction. She patted his shoulder, "Poor you. You had evil parents."

    "Tell me about it. They were certainly having fun with me when I was young and incapable of knowing any better for myself. I highly doubted if they were really my parents."

    "Where are those photos and videos?" asked Raelle.

    "I don''t care where they are but you of all people are not watching it," said Shui Xian.

    "Why not?"

    "No means no, wife!"

    "Ge is right," said Hyson. "This should be give and take. But since Ellie doesn''t have any embarrassing stories or memories to share. You should stay away from his embarrassing memories too."

    Shui Xian gave him an appreciative look, "Thankfully, you have something nice to say."

    Hysonughed, "Sorry! I didn''t wanna mention this either but I couldn''t stop myself. I always wondered though. Did you really leave ice skating because of your injury or because of these embarrassing memories."

    "Anything is possible." Shui Xian didn''t wanna mention anything else apart from this.

 Chapter 1318 Learn So Much

    1318 Learn So Much

    Actually, what Shui Xian didn''t mention was that he had way too many embarrassing childhood stories on record. Because his mother loved to record and both his parents loved to see him make a fool of himself. They really bullied the poor kid too much.

    And yes, he left ice skating mostly because of that embarrassing experience his parents put him through. Because one of his friends found out about it from his cousins and made fun of him. They kept teasing him and he got distracted which resulted in getting injured. He took the chance to withdraw from the ice skating team. He was young and didn''t want to deal with everyone teasing him.

    Seeing how he didn''t want to speak about it anymore, Raelle chose not to ask him anything else. All of them had their quickte lunch and then started observing their surroundings. "Raelle, you sit with Justin over there and do something to pass the time," said Xiang Weimin. "I and Xian will go to catch some fish. Fai and Wai are going for the treasure hunt."

    "There is no treasure!" shouted Xiang Wai.

    "It might not be what you think but I assure you, there is some treasure around here. And if you don''t find it, what will we eat?" asked Hyson.

    "Are we hunting?"

    "No," replied Hyson. "We are hunting for our dinner ingredients."

    "Huh?" Xiang Wai was confused but seeing her brother shooing her away, she had to follow Hyson. But before leaving, she looked at Raelle and Justin saying, "You both should also help."

    "With what?" asked Justin.

    "You can at least collect some firewood," said Xiang Wai.

    "Wai, go already," said Xiang Weimin. "We don''t actually need firewood. We have the camping stove here."

    Xiang Wai gave her brother a hard stare, "What kind of an adventure it is when everything is so convenient?"

    "Come with me on this wild adventure," Hyson pulled her along and left into the forest.

    Xiang Weimin and Shui Xian also went towards the stream. "Do we have fishing rods?" asked Shui Xian.

    "That would take too much time," said Xiang Weimin. "Let me find a stick."

    "You''re not gonna spear the fish, right?"

    "Uhuh," came Xiang Weimin''s response.

    "Can you do it?"

    "I am very good at it," replied Xiang Weimin. "Why do you just watch and learn?"

    "Okay," agreed Shui Xian happily, and even helped him find an appropriate stick too. They sharpened one end of the wooden stick with Xiang Weimin''s pocket knife. Soon, he rolled up his pants up to his knees and went down the stream. Shui Xian stayed on the shore with the bucket to catch the fish.

    Seeing how Xiang Weimin managed to spear the first fish so soon, Shui Xian gave him an appreciative look, and even Justin pped from his position.

    "Daddy is awesome!"

    "You''re very excited,"mented Raelle.

    Justin looked at his little aunt and said, "I also think I have been a lot excited these days. I didn''t even like to talk much before. Now, I have a lot to say."

    "You mean, you have a lot of questions now?" Justin smiled sheepishly and nodded his head. "My doctor said that it''s because of the environment and people surrounding me that''s helping mee out of the shell. I don''t even have nightmares anymore."

    Raelle listened to him sharing small details and listened attentively.

    "That''s great. My little buddy is bing cuter."

    Justin sighed like an adult and said, "But I''m worried about my mom too."

    "Why? What happened to Tang Hebe?"

    "I asked her toe and join us on this trip but she refused and told me to spend time with my dad and have fun. I am feeling guilty that she must be lonely back there."

    "You are so tiny and already have so many worries?" asked Raelle. "Don''t put so much pressure on your little brain. Your mom is an adult. She can make her own choices. And if she made the choice to let youe alone, it means she thought it was the right choice. You don''t have to worry about her so much. She isn''t as lonely as you think. She had plenty of friends who cared about her. It''s just that in the past few years, she was always around you so she didn''t get to stay close to those friends."

    "I really brought her a lot of trouble,"mented Justin.

    "Yes," replied Raelle honestly. "But you also brought her more happiness. Have you noticed how your mother has started smiling a lot more these days?"

    Justin thought about it and nodded his head, "Yes. When she saw me getting better, she was so excited she even cried."

    "Then I don''t have to exin to you how much she loves you, right?"

    "I know," he replied.

    "Then be nice to her in the future," said Raelle. "I''ll always be nice to her. I''ll be nice to you too because I like my little aunt very much."

    "No need to tter me."

    "Kids don''t lie."

    "Really? I didn''t know that," teased Raelle. Justin puffed up his cheeks and Raelle poked his cheeks with her finger. "Did you learn to do this from your Uncle Fai?" Justin nodded his head. "Don''t learn bad things from him."

    Justin giggled and said seriously, "I also want to learn a lot from you."

    "For instance?"

    "Horseback riding," replied Justin.

    Raelle stared at him seriously, "Horseback riding?"

    "Yes. I heard you are very good at it. Oh, and you have awesome archery skills too. I wanna learn it all."

    "Why do you have so many interests? You want to learn so many things."

    "I didn''t know the world had so many interesting things outside my room and garden."

    Raelle could actually resonate with those words as she said in a small voice, "Indeed. I didn''t know either." At least, not until Hyson came into her life. It''s just that even after seeing so many interesting things, her interest wasn''t very high. So, she did only what she felt like doing and nothing more.

 Chapter 1319 Smell Of Love

    1319 Smell Of Love

    "Where are we going?" asked Xiang Wai nth time.

    "If you don''t shut up, Major, I''m not sharing my food with you," said Hyson.

    "It''s okay. I know how to steal," she replied.

    "Shameless!"

    "Learning it from you!"

    Hyson rolled his eyes at her and observed everything around him. Suddenly, with his keen eyes, he saw a basket tied up to the branch of a tall tree. "Found it!"

    "What?"

    Hyson pointed towards the basket and said, "Our dinner!"

    Xiang Wai looked at this and her lips twitched. No wonder it was a treasure hunt trip. "Who came up with this idea?"

    "Who do you think?" asked Hyson in response rather than answering her question.

    "It must be my dearest aunt who is up to no good ever!"

    "I''ll convey your words to my godmother faithfully!"

    Xiang Wai gave him a re, "Tattletale!"

    Hyson stuck his tongue at her and said, "Now, climb."

    "What?"

    "What?" asked Hyson. "You have to climb up to get that basket. Or are you expecting to shoot it down? Well, do you have a bow or an arrow to shoot it down? Guns are illegal anyway." n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Why me?" asked Xiang Wai. "You can climb a tree too. I don''t believe you can''t do that."

    "My idol baggage is too heavy these days. So, I can''t seem to even walk with the heavy weight of my idol baggage. That means climbing is even harder."

    Xiang Wai rubbed the space between her brows to calm herself down and refrain from punching him. "Oh, I hate you. Aren''t you ashamed to make a girl work?"

    "Men and women are equal. The great man said once, women can carry half of the sky."

    "I hate you," with that Xiang Wai started climbing up the tree and managed to untie the basket. When she brought it down and they opened it, there were only some seasonings inside. Xiang Wai''s expression darkened, "No away. There is more?"

    Hysonughed dryly, "It seems so." He rubbed his nose and suggested, "Let''s put this here and look for other things first. What do you say?"

    "Do I have any other option here?" asked Xiang Wai. "This is a lesson to myself to never trust your words ever again in my life."

    Hysonughed at that, "Sis, I can still make you fall for my words."

    Xiang Wai to argue but chose not to since she didn''t really have all that much faith in herself either. Maybe she''d really fall for his tricky words again and that''d be like pping herself in the face. So, it was better to stay silent right now to save herself from future embarrassment.

    Seeing how she looked lost and listless, Hyson started chatting with her, "I heard you bought the rings."

    "I did," replied Xiang Wai happily. "Do you wanna see?"

    "Do you have it right now?" asked Hyson in surprise.

    Xiang Wai nodded her head, pulled out the ring box immediately, and showed it to him, "How is it?"

    Hyson looked at the rings and said sincerely, "Beautiful. But... Why are you carrying it with you?"

    "Well, even though I have nned to propose to Yanjun grandly in front of the whole family. But, life is full of surprises. I don''t wanna be caught off guard in a situation. So, I''m prepared for everything."

    "Don''t be like this. People would say you are too eager to get married. And that''s not said to be good for women."

    "People have a lot to say about me. I don''t give a damn about that," replied Xiang Wai. "Anyway, as long as I am happy."

    "Then are you happy?"

    "Can''t you tell?" she asked.

    "You look over the moon to me," he replied honestly. "It''s like a lifelong dream of yours ising true."

    "Actually, you aren''t all that wrong," said Xiang Wai. "Jun had been my dream for a very long time. So, it is indeed like a dreaming true. You won''t understand this even if I exin it to you in detail."

    Hyson nodded in response, "Indeed, I really don''t understand this at all. I won''t even say I''m looking forward to understanding it. But slowly, I''m bing quite interested in knowing what this feeling even is that you all speak of."

    "It''s the most addictive and the most dangerous drug in the world," replied Xiang Wai. "That''s what this feeling is. Love. You know even if you know it''s not good for your health, you still wanna have a taste of it at least once in your life unless you''re heartless. And I don''t think you''re that callous. So, I''d say your time hasn''te yet. You haven''t met that special someone who could make your heart feel like... Like... How should I exin it? Well, anyway, it''s just different. When you''d feel it, you''d realize it immediately because it''s like no other feeling you have ever felt."

    "I''ll wait for my time then," said Hyson. Heughed to himself, "You know once upon a time, I used to try to convince Ellie that love is a good thing. She needed to open her heart and understand it. She was nice enough not to p me in the face for saying crazy words when I didn''t even understand anything myself. At least, she could exin the phenomena of love through science. You know all those chemical reactions of dopamine and serotonin or whatever. But I couldn''t even understand that. Yet I always criticized her."

    "I''d say, Raelle made you courageous enough to talk nonsense with her," was Xiang Wai''s view on this.

    "I know," replied Hyson.

    "Do you have a favorite smell?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Huh? No. Why?"

    "Did Raelle have a favorite smell before marrying Xian?"

    "No."

    "Then ask her now. I assure you, she''ll have a favorite smell now."

    "And what is that?"

    "I don''t know. But I know one thing. Whatever it is, that''s her smell of love."

    "I don''t get it," Hyson looked very confused but his confused look was so cute that Xiang Wai ended up pinching his cheeks making his swat her hands away.

 Chapter 1320 Leaps & Bounds

    1320 Leaps & Bounds

    After collecting all the hidden ingredients, Hyson and Xiang Wai came back to the campsite. Hyson put all the ingredients down and ran to Raelle''s side.

    Seeing him panting, Raelle asked, "What now?"

    "You have a favorite smell?"

    "Huh?"

    "Favorite smell," he repeated. "Do you have one?"

    Raelle thought about it before nodding her head. "I do actually."

    Hyson was shocked when he heard that answer from her and asked, "What is it then?"

    "The scent of snow," came the very unexpected answer. Hyson frowned and asked, "Snow has a smell? Why didn''t I know that?"

    "I didn''t know it too," replied Raelle.

    "What about your favorite sound?" he asked again.

    "The crackling sound of wood burning in the firece," said Raelle.

    Hyson fell into deep thought and he didn''t even have to ask to confirm but he still did. "These favorites are associated with Xian Ge, right?"

    Raelle nodded her head without any hesitation.

    "You never had favorites in life. You''re someone who couldn''t even tell what your favorite color is because you never had one."

    "Now, I do," said Raelle. "Of course, you do. Do you mind me asking why the smell of snow is your favorite?"

    "It was the first time someone held my hand and walked with me on that snowy path," she told him. "It was our very short honeymoon when it happened. And before you ask, yes, the crackling sound of wood burning became my favorite sound on the same day."

    Hyson sighed to himself deeply, "You all really scare me with this love and also, fascinate me sometimes."

    Raelle gave him a look, "Says the guy who always wanted to see me falling in love."

    "I am d my wish came true and I got see the Raelle in love version. This version is not all that uneptable."

    "Why did youe to ask these questions out of nowhere?" asked Raelle.

    "Isn''t it because Wai was talking nonsense with me and I got curious? Why else would I think of something like this."

    "What did she say?"

    "She said people love always have a favorite smell which they associate with love."

    Raelle nodded her head, "I would have called that crap before but now, I can''t say anything about this."

    "I don''t wanna talk to you anymore," said Hyson as he left her again.

    Raelle shook her head looking at his excited self. He was so hyper that she suddenly felt tired looking at him but this thought alone startled her too. Since when did Raelle Xiang start feeling tired? Wasn''t she the humanoid robot who never got tired? Now, she was even feeling tired just looking at her best friend''s hyper self. "Weimin Ge, you''re so good,"plimented Hyson. "You caught so many fish in such a short time. How about you teach me too? I wanna learn this skill too."

    "What''s the use?" asked Xiang Weimin. "I''ll just catch the fish for you whenever you want to eat it."

    Shui Xian chuckled when he heard that, he put down his knife and said to Hyson, "Fai, how about you firste and learn how to clean the fish with me?"

    Hyson looked at the fish on the chopping board and took a step back, "No, I don''t feel like learning that. Doesn''t sound very exciting."

    "Skills are skills. Why are you so picky with it now?"

    Hyson still shook his head.

    "Are you scared, Fai?" asked Xiang Wai in a teasing manner.

    "What am I scared of?" retorted Hyson. "I just feel bad for the fish."

    "You don''t feel bad eating it," reminded Xiang Wai. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "That''s because I didn''t kill it with my own hands," was Hyson''s response. "But this is different. If I really picked up that knife and dropped it on the fish''s head, I''ll feel guilty for life. There would be an innocent fish''s life on my hands."

    They allughed at his nonsense and said, "Don''t you feel the same when you''re eating it?"

    "No. Then the fish is doing it''s job by being my meal and amusing my taste buds andforting my stomach. It''s different. Very different. No need tough at me so much."

    "Only you would have so much nonsense in life," said Shui Xian. "Then help me wash the vegetables. Can you do that?"

    "Can!" answered Hyson and took the vegetables basket to wash the vegetables.

    "He is a gem!"mented Shui Xian. "But very annoying too."

    They all divided the work and soon started cooking. It was already getting dark when Xiang Weimin collected some firewood and started a bonfire. Maybe it was because there was rain the previous day, it was slightly chilly at night. So, even though he originally thought they won''t be needing a bonfire, he changed his ideater on.

    Sitting around the bonfire, they shared the food cooked by Xiang Weimin and Shui Xian. Eating the grilled fish, Hyson praised, "Xian Ge, you''re good at this."

    "I told you, I am good at this but you never believed it," said Shui Xian.

    "Isn''t it because you never cooked for me before? How would I know how good you are at this?"

    "I never got the chance to do so," replied Shui Xian. "Then we should have more such outing where you can show off your skills," said Hyson taking this chance to climb up the pole.

    "Why is it that food can never block your mouth?" asked Raelle. "And why would my husband cook for you. If anything, he''d do it for me. I''m his wife."

    "Stingy,"mented Hyson. "You''re very stingy as always. I don''t know what to say to you as you''re bing so unrecognizable to me now."

    "Stop talking already," said Raelle.

    "How about I tell a story?" suggested Xiang Wai.

    "Why?" asked Raelle.

    "Because my dear sister, that''s what people do on camping trips. Sitting around the bonfire, signing, dancing, ying games, riddles, or telling stories. I believe you have the worst singing voice around here."

    "As if you''re a great singer."

    "At least I know the lyrics. You don''t even know that."

    "I don''t pay attention," said Raelle.

    "Xian Ge, you should have brought your guitar and yed it for us," said Hyson.

    "He won''t do it," said Raelle. "He seems to just love putting that guitar in his safe. He only takes it out to clean it lovingly and just gazes at it for hours."

    Shui Xian scratched his head when he heard his wife''sint but he still exined, "Isn''t it because it''s a very precious gift from you? I don''t wanna ruin it."

    "Husband, I gave it to you so that you can y it," told Raelle. "Not to keep it in a ss safe. If I wanted that, I''d have given to a music museum or something."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips, "What if it broke?"

    "I''ll buy you a new one! I''m still here!"

    Shui Xian sighed, "Fine. Next time, I''ll carry it with me on trips."

    "I like the sound of that," said Xiang Wai. "Now, can we get to my story?"

    "Yourst storytelling skill has already traumatized everyone," said Xiang Weimin.

    "I''ll try to make it fun," promised Xiang Wai. Seeing that everyone resigned to their fate, she finally got her wish and cleared her throat before speaking, "So, it happened when I first joined the military academy. We were sent to the virgin forest for a training exam. We had to live there for a month and survive too. Mind you, there were too many poisonous snakes and insects in that ce. And since everyone was an enemy, we had to act alone too. One night, while running away from a wild boar, I actually lost my way. I got bitten by a snake and thought I was done for."

    Strangely enough, everyone was listening intently to her story this time around. Whether it was because they found the story interesting or her way of storytelling improved only they would know. For now, Xiang Wai was happy that she got everyone''s attention and felt smug too. Ha! Didn''t she say she had the most stories to share in this family?

    "It seemed my time hadn''te yet and I ended up finding a ruined building in front of me. It looked so dpidated and covered with moss and vegetation. All in all, it was like the building had be one with the forest and it was difficult to tell what it looked like originally. I took thest antidote pill with me but it was''t working. My leg was slowly losing sensation and it was all blue and ck. I dragged my body inside that building slowly."

    She didn''t immediately tell what happened next but took an appropriate pause to build some suspense as she was told to do so after herst story. She seemed to have learned her lesson very well this time and even improved by leaps and bounds.

 Chapter 1321 Wish Come True

    1321 Wish Come True

    "Now, don''t ask why I dragged my body to check out that ruined building. Let''s just say my curiosity got the best of me at that time. So, even though I felt like I was gonna die, I still had to see that building to curb my curiosity before dying."

    "That''s something we can expect from you," said Hyson.

    "You''d do the same if you were at my ce," retorted Xiang Wai.

    "No, sis! If it was me, I''d be running in the opposite direction. The fact that the building seemed toe into your view after you got bitten was enough for me to say goodbye and run for the hills."

    "Scaredy cat!" "You know, the people who die horribly are often curious or looking for some adventure that leads to their death. I am a person who is very scared of death. There''s no shame in telling you that. So, why wouldn''t I run for my life?"

    Xiang Wai shook her head, "Let''s stop here. Let me continue my story." n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Yes, please! Go on!"

    Xiang Wai nodded but before she could speak, a cup was pushed into her hand. She looked up at Shui Xian who smiled, "Drink something to moisten your throat. Take your time. There is no rush."

    Xiang Wai said thank you and drank the milk tea. She was surprised that it was milk tea and looked at Shui Xian who passed it to others too but she was wise enough not to question where it came from. It was obvious that he made it himself. She''d be called a fool again by Hyson if she questioned the obvious. "So, where was I?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "You entered the ruined building," answered Justin.

    Xiang Wai smiled looking at the milk mustache she had and wiped it with a napkin before continuing, "Yes, so, I entered the building. Now, a very surprising thing happened."

    "What?"

    "The building was on the verge of falling from the outside but it was neat and clean and as good as new from the inside. There wasn''t even a single weed growing inside or a speck of dirt. It was a temple. There was incense ced on the table. There were fruits there. There were copied scriptures too lying on the table. Thinking that, it was myst struggle. I lit the incense and kowtowed piously there."

    "Did the holy light shine on you?" asked Raelle.

    "Are you also teasing me now?" asked Xiang Wai in surprise.

    "I''m just asking."

    "Well, no my dear little sister. No holy light came down. Instead, when I looked up, I ended up looking into a pair of deep ck eyes. I was so startled that I almost fell. But thankfully, I was already on my knees so I couldn''t fall."

    Hyson shook his head at her stupid joke.

    "Whose eyes were those?" asked Justin.

    "A girl," answered Xiang Wai.

    "Now, you''re just making it up," said Hyson.

    "But I am not. I swear it''s all true. I did end up face-to-face with a girl. It was a girl of about fifteen or sixteen years old. She was dressed like..."

    "Like a fairy?" asked Justin.

    "No, honey. She was dressed in a red bridal dress I''d say. That''s what it looked like to me."

    "So, you met a girl in a bridal dress in the middle of nowhere and you did not scream and run?" asked Hyson.

    "No."

    "Why?"

    "Honestly speaking, my senses were quite numb at that time because of the snake bite. The poison was slowing down my brain too. At that time, I did not even question why I was looking at a young bride in the middle of nowhere."

    This time even Raelle''s attention was caught and she dropped hernguid posture to ask, "What did she look like?"

    "She was pretty. Had a small face. Beautiful eyebrows. The only unsettling thing about her were her ck eyes which seemed out of ce and a little lifeless too. So, I said, ''Oh, hi there! You''re so beautiful.''"

    "Why would you say that?" asked Hyson.

    "I told you, my senses were lost. I''ll tell you very honestly, at that time, I even thought I was hallucinating because of the poison. After all, it''s not all that umon either. Some poisons have that effect too."

    "How did she respond to you?" asked Raelle.

    "She gave me a small smile and said, ''You did not wish to live.''"

    "Huh? What does that mean?"

    "I didn''t understand her meaning too at that time. But after I was able to recall that time, I knew why she said that. When I piously lit that incense and kowtowed, I did not ask to live. My wish was something else."

    "What was it?"

    "I don''t share that with you. Let''s not talk about this. Let''s talk about our young bride. She looked at my leg which was in a very bad condition and then slowly took a wild berry that I recognized from the fruit basket and offered it to me saying, ''Would you like to eat some?'' Feeling a bit hungry, I took it and ate it."

    "Didn''t your mother teach you to not eat what strangers give you? What if it was poisonous?"

    "Considering I was already poisoned, I did not see a reason why I couldn''t eat that." Xiang Wai gave a re to Hyson and went on, "Then she sat down with me and asked where I came from. I told her. Then I asked her what she was doing there and she replied, she was waiting for someone. She asked me what the world outside was like and I shared a lot of things with her. We had a great time chatting. I can still vividly recall her smile whenever she found something interesting. I liked her smile so much that I took off the wooden bead I always wore around my wrist and gave it to her as our meeting gift. She seemed to like that very much. After we chatted for hours, I slowly started dozing off. She touched my face and whispered, ''It was nice to meet you. Have a good night. And I hope you don''t have to wait for your next life to make your wishe true.''"

 Chapter 1322 Lost Soul

    1322 Lost Soul

    "And that''s thest thing you remember before you fell asleep, right?" asked Hyson.

    "Right," answered Xiang Wai.

    "What exactly was your wish?" he asked.

    "I said I don''t wanna talk about it."

    Hyson nodded and didn''t ask any further. "What happened after you woke up?"

    "I woke up the next day. And I was not in that ruined building anymore. I was lying in a wooden cabin which seemed to be the resting ce of hunters. Also, I thought I woke up the next day but it seemed I was asleep for two days. I realized that only after finishing the training exam. When I woke up, I looked around and found it weird that I was in that wooden cabin. I tried to find the ruined building but there was no sign of it anywhere. I looked at my leg which I thought I''d have to amputate even if I survived but guess what? I was as good as new. Like there wasn''t even the snake teeth mark on my leg. It was perfectly fine."

    "All of that was a very clear dream?" asked Raelle.

    "That''s what I thought too. I thought I dreamed all of that. Everything around me told me it was a dream but a part of me was unwilling to believe that it was really just a dream. And I was convinced when I found the red string inside my pocket."

    "Red string?"

    "I told you I gave her a meeting gift which was a wooden bead. What she gave in return was a red string tied around her own wrist. When I found that string, I knew it was not a dream. I just seemed to have had a magical adventure."

    "Did you never see her again?" asked Justin.

    "No, I never saw her again," answered Xiang Wai.

    "I believe the red string you always wear is the same one?" asked Hyson.

    Xiang Wai looked at the red string on her wrist and nodded in response.

    "You wore something a ghost gave you?"

    "You don''t know if it was a ghost."

    "What else was it then, Major?"

    "Maybe just a lost soul," answered Xiang Wai.

    "Ha!" was Hyson''s response. "Why don''t take it a step further and say that it was the spirit of the forest that came to save you?"

    Xiang Wai had a thoughtful expression, "Actually, I never thought in that direction. It could very well be possible."

    "Okay. You have lost your mind. Lost your mind for sure."

    Xiang Wai gave him a smile, "I never shared this experience with anyone before."

    "Indeed. Even I didn''t hear you talk about this before," said Xiang Weimin. "And here I thought you told me everything."

    "Ge, when it happened, you had been stationed at a different base. I didn''t see you for a year or something. By the time we met, I did not feel like talking about that experience. If you think about it, I almost lost my life in that forest. If it wasn''t for that magical adventure, you wouldn''t see me here. And before Raelle you say anything, I''m not alone. You should know that I have gone to very strange ces for my missions. And that''s why I heard a lot of folk stories too. And almost everyone from my team has had some kind of a magical encounter. Whether it was a good or a bad one. So, no matter how much I believe in science, I won''t deny supernatural too." n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Xiang Wai as happy as a kid when she heard this and said, "See? I told you nephew that I have huge reserves of stories to tell. No one has had as many adventures here as me."

    10:54

    Raelle was thinking deeply about what she just shared and didn''t question anything. Just because she never had to experience it, didn''t mean others didn''t either. Anyway, there was a lot in the world that she didn''t experience so there was no point questioning others'' experiences.

    "You never heard anything about the girl you met?" asked Justin.

    Xiang Wai took a pause and then told him, "It happened years after that. I was the supervising instructor this time around when we went to the same forest again. We had to stop and take shelter in a vige. The vige was very small. Only old people lived there because younger ones had all gone to big cities to make a living. The olddy I lived with shared a story. She said not to enter the forest of the bride will kill you."

    Justin gasped. Xiang Wai rubbed his head lovingly, "ording to the olddy, the bride was the vengeful ghost. She was betrayed by her family. Her father colluded with others and offered her as a sacrificial bride to the forest god. Butter on, her whole family was found dead in their house. That''s when people got scared because all the people who took part in sacrificing her, slowly started dying. The vige was said to be haunted because something kept happening one after another over the years. And the worst part was that the people couldn''t even leave the vige."

    "Then what about the young ones who went to big cities?"

    "Only one person from one family could leave," answered Xiang Wai. "But they all had to eventuallye back and beg for forgiveness or they won''t be able to live to their old age. Just the fact alone that only one person could leave was enough to cause internal strife in the vige. So, the poption of the vige even if we include those who left was very pitiful."

    "Do you believe all that?" asked Hyson seriously.

    "No," she answered. "I only believe what I saw and experienced. I don''t believe in such stories without any basis. Maybe they were talking about the same bride I met. But it''s also true that she saved my life. Why would I believe in others'' words that she was a vengeful spirit? What I saw in her eyes was mncholy. I didn''t see hate."

    Justin pped his hands, "I liked this story. Do we have more?"

    Xiang Wai as happy as a kid when she heard this and said, "See? I told you nephew that I have huge reserves of stories to tell. No one has had as many adventures here as me."

 Chapter 1323 It Was A Person

    1323 It Was A Person

    "Was it really that interesting?" asked Raelle to Justin who nodded his head in response. "What was so interesting?" she muttered to herself. Well, as long as Justin liked it. Anyway, Xiang Wai shared this experience with others only because she wanted Justin to see how awesome she was. So, whether she found it interesting or not had little to do with Xiang Wai, right?

    "Do we have more stories?" asked Justin. "Daddy, what about you?"

    "Your dad is boring," said Xiang Wai. "He has nothing fun to share."

    "It''s not fun as Wai said," started Xiang Weimin. "But it''s mysterious. Would you like to hear it?"

    "Yes!" said Hyson and Justin simultaneously.

    Xiang Weimin looked at Hyson, "Why are you joining in the fun?"

    "Why can''t I?" retorted Hyson. "Just tell me already. I''m curious about what could be considered mysterious in your life."

    Xiang Weimin shook his head at Hyson and told them, "It started when I was six, I believe. Before the divorce of our parents. Every Friday, I''d find a bunch of purple magnolias tied in my school desk."

    "Who left it? Which girl was it?" asked Hyson curiously.

    "I don''t know who left it," answered Xiang Weimin. "I didn''t take it seriously at the beginning. I just thought some girl left it for me. Although it might not seem like it, I was still a very popr kid in school. A lot of girls wanted to share their candies with me or their lunch boxes. So, my first thought was that one of those girls left it. I never took it seriously."

    "What next?"

    "Next, things changed in life. Our parents divorced, we moved. I changed the city, I changed the school. But when I was feeling like everything was changing, I found that something was still the same. I still had a bunch of purple magnolias in my desk waiting for me every Friday."

    "There was no letter attached to those flowers?" asked Shui Xian. "Usually, there''d be a love confession letter there."

    "Talking from experience, Xian Ge?" asked Hyson. n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Shui Xian took a pause but still nodded, "Yes, I am talking from experience. Because even when people left gifts or cookies or anything on my desk for me, there''d be a letter. Even if it was just an anonymous letter, there''d be a letter for sure."

    "Mine didn''t have any," answered Xiang Weimin. "There was never a name. Never a letter. Nothing. Just flowers. That''s when I started getting interested in this. Considering so much changed in my life in a short period of time, I was curious to know why this didn''t change. Did someone follow me all the way from my old school to the new one? But when I checked I was the only transfer student in the school. As much as it wasforting to have some constant in life during that time, I still desperately wanted to know who was behind it."

    "So, what did you do?" asked Hyson.

    "Isn''t it obvious?" asked Shui Xian. "He must have gone to school earlier and earlier waiting to catch the person who left him flowers."

    Xiang Weimin gave Shui Xian a look and nodded, "Yes, that''s what I did. Sadly, it was of no use because I still couldn''t find the person behind it all." He sighed to himself and added, "So, I spoke with my Dad at that time. You see, I didn''t have all that many conversations with Dad. One, I had nothing to say. Two, he was busy all the time after his divorce. Maybe he was trying to numb himself with work. Whatever it was, I found time to sit down with him and tell him about this weird thing happening with me. I was already nine by then, by the way. It had been going on for three years already. I needed some answers."

    "What did Dad say?" asked Xiang Wai apparently not knowing anything about this either.

    "He fell into deep thought for a long time before saying, ''Is it necessary for you to find the person behind it?'' I said, ''Yes. I am curious.'' He gave me a smile and said, ''Some answers are not necessary in life, son. If you run after them, you might forget to appreciate what you have. Ask yourself, are you more looking forward to those flowers or the answer behind them?'' After that, I couldn''t say anything."

    "You stopped looking," said Shui Xian with certainty.

    Xiang Weimin smiled, "I did. I stopped looking and I stopped asking questions. If anything, I knew that whenever I found those flowers on my desk, I was genuinely happy."

    "That''s where your love for nts came from," said Raelle with certainty.

    "Yeah. That''s where it came from originally."

    "For how long did it go on?" asked Hyson because he was more curious about this.

    "Until I went to the military academy," answered Xiang Weimin. "And since I graduated early, it means it went on for a decade apparently."

    "For ten years, you got the same flowers on your desk with no name on them."

    "Yup!"

    "Who do you think was behind it?" "I told you, I stopped wondering that long ago. I didn''t care at all. I was just happy to have someone who silently showed me support in this way. It didn''t matter to me what the purpose was behind it all."

    Hyson nodded his head, "This really is a mysterious experience. But Ge, what would you do if one day that person really came in front of you?"

    "You won''t say it was a ghost?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "It might seem like a supernatural experience but I know better than that. It was definitely a person. If I found who that person is, I''d love to give that person an apud for being so persistent."

    "I also think it was a human. If it was some supernatural, you''d have gotten those flowers in the military academy too. If you didn''t, it means that person''s reach wasn''t up there," said Raelle.

 Chapter 1324 Not Pure Evil

    1324 Not Pure Evil

    "I must say though," went on Raelle. "You all are wasting my time by talking about these things."

    "Raelle, this is so romantic," said Xiang Wai.

    "That''s stalking," was Raelle''s response. "I did not see anything romantic in that."

    "Even if it was stalking, it was done so beautifully."

    "Just because you added flowers to it, it did not add any beauty to stalking."

    Hyson chuckled when he heard their argument and said, "Major, you are really wasting your time. Once Ellie believes in something, it will take a very long time for you to convince her otherwise. And the main point is, you need to be right to convince her."

    "I am right," argued Xiang Wai.

    "Not really," said Hyson. "It might seem romantic to you but imagine. Someone has been following you silently for ten years. You have no idea who that person is but he knows everything about you. Do you find this romantic? Because I don''t."

    "Exactly, my point!" said Raelle.

    "You best friends are always on the same page," said Xiang Wai.

    "If you think that way, then you really don''t know us all that well," said Hyson. "What''s your view on this, Weimin Ge? After all, you''re the one involved in all of this."

    Xiang Weimin shrugged, "To be honest, I just foundfort in those flowers. I did not question anything else. As you said, it was indeed a bit weird at first. But slowly, I stopped focusing on that. As long as that person didn''t want to show up, I didn''t care."

    "What if that person really doese in front of you? What would you say?"

    Xiang Weimin thought about it before responding, "I''d like to say thank you. Thank you for being the constant I needed at a time when everything in my life was changing. Because that... That was very precious to me."

    "How were you coping with that change, Major?" asked Hyson.

    Xiang Wai didn''t want to recall that time very much. But she still told him, "I did what I am best at. Fighting. One day I got into a fight with one cousin, the next day, it''d be another one."

    "And why would you do that?" asked Raelle. "Because I''m that reckless, naughty, and irresponsible."

    "Liar."

    Xiang Wai gave Raelle a look and sighed, "Fine. Mom originally brought me to live in her own house. But she had to join the secret research team. She wanted to hire a nanny to take care of me. However, my maternal grandmother being the maniptor she always had been, told my mother that it was better to leave me with my maternal grandparents'' family. I''d be able to have better care. There are so many cousins to y with as well. All in all, there was a huge emotional drama involved which led to my mom bringing me to live with her natal family. Needless to say, I wasn''t very well received in that family. Those cousins loved to say that no one wanted me. Because I didn''t have my father around me and my mother was also in theb for months. So, I lost my patience and beat them all."

    Xiang Weimin held her hand tofort her. He knew all about it. And he also knew that she only told the most basicments they used to hurt her. There was so much worse going on in that family.

    "One day, they all ganged up on me and locked me up in the warehouse. I stayed there for two days. Hungry, thirsty, and cold."

    Raelle looked at her face which didn''t show any resentment, pain, or anything at all. But she could still tell that those experiences were what shaped her into what she was today. It wasn''t that she didn''t want to be a more well-behaved kid. It''s just that no one left her a choice back then.

    "So, when I came out. My so-called aunt told me that I must have learned my lesson by now. I should be careful in the future not to hurt her kids. After all, I was living under their roof and ate their food. As if, I was living for free. As if they weren''t using my mom as their personal ATM. Anyway, let''s not talk about that. Let''s talk about my heroic acts. Aftering out of there, I first cut off my eldest cousin''s hair and made her go bald. Then I made wild dogse and chase my second cousin for an hour. And no, I am not pure evil. I made sure he wasn''t bitten. He was just scared. Who told him to have such a small courage? Then I caught some rats and left them in my third cousin''s room at night. Oh, I still remember the way she screamed at night and couldn''t sleep for a week." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Xiang Weimin had long ago covered his son''s ears because he did not want his son to listen to any of that.

    "What else?" asked Hyson looking very excited to hear more.

    "What else? I set fire to their warehouse where I was locked too. HAHAHA! It was fun."

    "You didn''t get beaten up again?" asked Hyson.

    "No, I ran away from home and went to call my Dad who told me to wait where I was. Within half an hour, someone came in a military jeep and took me away. Then I stayed with Ge and Dad for a while."

    "What happened after that?" asked Raelle. "I don''t think you stayed with Dad for long."

    "No. Later, Dad contacted Mom after her research was done. He had a big fight with her over what happened with Wai," told Xiang Weimin. "He was really mad when he got Wai''s call. I was with him at that time. He looked mad, angry, and in pain. So, when he brought Wai with him, he really didn''t want to let her go. So, he and mom had a big fight. They argued about it for six months before Dad relented and let Wai go back."

    Xiang Wai''s expressions changed when she heard it all from her brother.

 Chapter 1325 No Perfect Child

    1325 No Perfect Child

    "Baba didn''t send me back because he didn''t want to keep me?" asked Xiang Wai with aplicated look in her eyes.

    Xiang Weimin gave her a hard stare and smacked her head, "How many times have I told you not to take others'' words seriously? I told you to talk to me about everything before overthinking. Who told you that Dad didn''t want you?"

    "They all said I was a fool. What''s the point of running when I eventually had toe back because even my own father didn''t want me? I also thought he didn''t want me," Xiang Wai looked aggrieved when she spoke of it.

    Xiang Weimin shook his head at her, "Dad didn''t want to send you back at all. Mom assured him that nothing would happen to you. She also said she''d make sure no one bullies you too. Dad only relented when Mom promised to let you spend summer and winter vacations with me. Dad didn''t even know what happened back then but the fact that you called him sote at night for help was enough to make him go mad. It took a lot of time for them to reach a middle ground."

    Xiang Wai recalled those days and realized that it was indeed true. People did stop bullying her in that family after she went back. They used words to annoy her but nothing harmful was done. But she thought they got scared of what she did before running. It seemed that wasn''t entirely the case. She doesn''t even know what her mother did, just like she didn''t know what her father did for her.

    "You all havemunication issues," said Raelle. "Your life would have been a lot better if you all had just taken some time to sit down and talk about everything."

    Xiang Wai lowered her head and nodded, "Right. I wouldn''t have grown up thinking no one cared about me. It seems I really wronged Mom and Dad over the years. They weren''t as careless with me as I thought. They did care, I just never understood it."

    "No parents are perfect," said Hyson. "Just like that, no child is perfect too. You didn''t understand them, they also weren''t able to understand you. We all learn slowly. Isn''t it enough that you learned about it all now."

    "But I always found ways to hurt them both with my words."

    "Since they didn''t really say anything about it, that means they were very tolerant of you. And maybe, deep down they also thought that they had wronged you so they deserved the hurt you gave them."

    Xiang Wai looked at Hyson and said, "Why are you so good at this?"

    "Do I look a perfect son to you?"

    "You do," said Xiang Wai. "You have such a beautiful bond with Aunt Yue."

    "It wasn''t exactly always like that," said Hyson. "I also had times when I resented her very much. You had a father''s name attached to you and yet you''re called a fatherless child. I didn''t have one. What do you think I was called?"

    Xiang Wai opened her mouth but no words came out. 10:34

    "But that wasn''t why I resented my Mum. Mostly, I did it because from a very young age, I realized that I wasn''t as important as the father I don''t know about. Clearly, she loved that man who wasn''t with her more than she loved me. There were times she''d even forget all about me. Slowly, it started changing. I only figured out why that was soter on when I realized that my face resembled that man. This realization wasn''t a good experience. So, I had a time when I yelled at my Mum. But seeing her crying, I hated myself more." He patted her shoulder, "Don''t be so hard on yourself. We don''t be perfect children out of nowhere. I became one because I realized I never wanted to see my Mum cry ever again. I really hated that feeling of helplessness. So, I became whatever she wanted me to be just to keep her happy."

    "Fai is right," said Shui Xian. "We all have done something to hurt our parents. I had a good rtionship with my mother but I hurt her a lot too when I insisted on going against her wishes. As for B¨¤, I can''t even tell you how much I hurt him over the years. It was only after Mom''s death that our rtionship became what it is today."

    Raelle really couldn''t join in this conversation. All of them shared their experience with their parents and she really couldn''t join in. She looked at Justin and said, "Justin, how about the two of us go to bed? We can''t join this conversation anyway."

    "But I also have something to share," said Justin while yawning. "I also hurt Momst time. She told me to wear warm clothes before making the snowman but I didn''t listen. Then I fell ill. She scolded me and also cried seeing me. I was very ashamed to see that I hurt her."

    Raelle rubbed her nose, "I should just go and sleep."

    Seeing her really going back to her tent, the rest of them shared a look andughed out. They didn''t even realize that Raelle was feeling left out because of their conversation since she had nothing to say. "We really left out Raelle," said Shui Xian.

    "Don''t worry. She won''t be feeling bad. Let her go to sleep first," said Hyson.

    "I''m gonna put Justin to sleep and then I''lle out."

    "Ge, bring me some coffee too," said Xiang Wai. "Then she turned to the other two but settled on Shui Xian. "Brother-inw, you have some experience to share?"

    "Not a personal one but I have heard a few folklores."

    "Tell me," said Xiang Wai eagerly waiting for him to talk.

    "Okay, it''s the story of Xianmen ruins in Xi desert. They say there is a paradise hiding underneath the desert and a lot of people went in search of that paradise. We are gonna talk about one of those people..."

    There are always some crazy stories when you''re sitting around the bonfire with a group of friends. And then those stories lead to other things and we end up talking about all sorts of things. That''s what happened here too. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

 Chapter 1326 I Bet

    1326 I Bet

    Inside the tent, Raelle looked at the inted bed and then at the sleeping bag. All of this was really out of herfort zone but here she was. She opened the sleeping bag andy down to sleep. She could hear the sound of fire burning from outside, mixed with the lowered voices of Shui Xian, Xiang Wai, Hyson, and Xiang Weimin. She closed her eyes to try to sleep.

    She really thought she wouldn''t be able to sleep here tonight but she didn''t even realize when she fell asleep. She didn''t even know when Shui Xian came to lie down beside her. She only knew that Shui Xian was sleeping with her when she woke up at the break of dawn.

    She looked at his tired face and she could tell that they all must have chatted for a long timest night. She slowly got up without disturbing him and went outside. She pulled up a jumper and wore her trekking shoes as she went for a walk around the camp. She looked at the forest covered with early morning mist and it seemed rather magical.

    She heard some sounding from the bush ahead and turned her eyes to see what was it. It seemed something was moving there, she stepped over slowly and made eye contact with something.

    Raelle froze and then slowly took a step back. "What are you doing?" came the voice from behind her.

    Raelle looked at Xiang Weimin who appeared behind her and said, "There is something over there. We made eye contact just now."

    Xiang Weimin looked where she pointed and walked over. He pushed away the bushes and found the ''creature'' she made eye contact with it. With a smile on his face, he picked it up and brought it towards her.

    "It''s a little bunny."

    Raelle looked at that small rabbit with gray fur. She looked into his red eyes and fell into thought. Who knew what she was thinking about?

    "It''s cute, isn''t it?" asked Xiang Weimin.

    "No," answered Raelle. "I don''t think so."

    Xiang Weimin didn''t know how to respond to that. "Don''t you wanna keep this little friend with you?"

    "Why would I share my home with these things?" asked Raelle in return. "I am not asking him to share his home with me. It should not have such expectations from me too."

    Xiang Weimin pursed his lips and wanted to put the rabbit down. Just then Justin came over, "Oh, it''s a bunny!"

    Xiang Weimin looked at his son with a loving smile, "Do you like it?"

    Justin touched the fur of the small rabbit that was a bit scared right now and said, "I do. Can we keep it?"

    "Yes, we can," replied Xiang Weimin.

    "Yes, you can," said Raelle. "Later, it''ll eat all your nts and ruin all your garden by burrowing into the ground, making holes here and there. Ruining the root system of all the flowering nts."

    The more Justin listened, the more his expression changed and he shook his head, "No, Daddy! Let it go. I don''t want it."

    Xiang Weimin gave Raelle a look that seemed like she did nothing wrong. He shook his head at his sister and turned to his son, "You really don''t want such a cute friend?"

    "No," Justin was very decisive this time. "I can''t be selfish. Just because I want a cute friend, I can''t separate it from its family. That isn''t nice, right?"

    Xiang Weimin touched his head, "My son is so smart." And then he looked at Raelle saying, "And you are evil!"

    "What did I do?" was Raelle''s response. Why would she allow a red-eyed creature to live anywhere near her? Did she look like a fool? And she did not think this thing was cute at all. n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Xiang Weimin set the rabbit free and held Justin''s hand to take him back.

    On the other hand, Raelle looked around once more and decided to go back to the campsite. She felt like she had to go to the bathroom but going to the bathroom in the wild was an experience she''d rather not have. Dying was eptable but not this so-called experience. So, she could only hold it in now.

    It''d be a bit ufortable but it''s okay, they''d be going back after breakfast. Then she''ll be home and will be able to go to the bathroom with the peace of mind and she''d be able to take a long shower to shake of the germs of all the insects living in this mountain too. That''s how Raelle was convincing herself all this while.

    "When did you guys go to sleep?" asked Raelle looking at Xiang Weimin who was already busy with breakfast.

    "After midnight," he replied. "That''s why, let the others sleep for a while. I''ll handle the breakfast myself."

    "I didn''t say I was gonna wake them up," said Raelle. "You all can really talk. Why spend so much time talking?"

    "Why can''t you talk for so long?" asked Xiang Weimin in return. "We should talk more to learn more from each other. People have a lot to teach you too. Haven''t you realized thatst night? Have you heard all those strange stories before? I bet, you didn''t even believe in them before."

    Raelle nodded her head, "I didn''t believe in them. That''s why I never read books rted to legends. It just didn''t seem interesting enough because my subconscious mind won''t believe it."

    "But you should believe in what you heardst night," said Xiang Weimin.

    "I''m not sure about that. Everything Wai said could really be just her hallucination too. Everything pointed towards that."

    "But then how do you exin that she was fine?"

    "Maybe the antidote pill she took kicked inte."

    "What about the snake bite? There was no mark of it on her leg."

    Raelle fell silent, "Then maybe she ate some kind of a fruit in that virgin forest that brought out that hallucination. And everything was just a dream. She never got bitten by a snake."

    Xiang Weiminughed when he heard that and came over to touch her head which she didn''t avoid. "You are really something. Your brain can find reasons to convince you as long as your belief is strong enough."

 Chapter 1327 Defender

    1327 Defender

    "Take Justin to wash his face," said Xiang Weimin.

    Raelle pointed at herself, "You mean me?"

    "Is anyone else here?" asked Xiang Weimin in return. Raelle looked around and it was indeed only her around right now so she shook her head. "Then, of course, I''m talking to you."

    "But I''ve never done this before," she told him.

    "If you won''t do it how else would you know that you can''t do it?" asked Xiang Weimin. "You thought you couldn''t go camping too. Didn''t you survive yesterday? So, why are you so indecisive now? That''s so not like to give up even before trying."

    "You don''t have to give me such a big lecture over such a small matter."

    "Then do it. Go ahead. He is your nephew and he likes you very much too. You need to interact with him more so that you don''t feel so lost when you have your own child in the future."

    Raelle looked at Xiang Weimin and asked, "This is your first time being a father too. How do you know so much about taking care of a child?"

    "I have been taking care of Wai since she was a baby. It might not seem like it but I practically raised her," told Xiang Weimin. "And trust me, it wasn''t an easy task. Justin isparatively a very calm person and easy to take care of."

    Raelle didn''t doubt his words. She had already noticed the way he actually babied Xiang Wai. Why else would she be so unrestrained at this age? It seemed like having Xiang Weimin as an elder brother was the silver lining that saved Xiang Wai.

    "Justin,e with me," said Raelle and took her nephew with her to help him wash up. But actually, there was no need for anything special because Justin was already very independent at this age and he didn''t want her help much.

    So, Raelle didn''t learn anything except for realizing that kids should be independent early on in life. Hmmm... This was something she knew from experience so she chose to stick with this idea without caring how her future munchkin would feel about this arrangement.

    "Good morning, everyone!" came Hyson''s voice as he stretched his body and yawned tiredly. "What''s so good about this morning?" asked Raelle to him.

    "I''m able to wake up and breathe in the fresh air, this blessing is enough to make this morning a good one," came Hyson''s prompt response. "You''re saying weird things again," said Raelle.

    "I''m telling the truth," said Hyson. He went to Justin and squatted down to his eye level as he said, "You should also learn this, little one. Every day you are able to wake up and breathe is a blessing. Having good health is a blessing you should be thankful for. Don''t be thankless like your little aunt. Always be thankful for every little blessing."

    11:19

    "I''m telling the truth," said Hyson. He went to Justin and squatted down to his eye level as he said, "You should also learn this, little one. Every day you are able to wake up and breathe is a blessing. Having good health is a blessing you should be thankful for. Don''t be thankless like your little aunt. Always be thankful for every little blessing."

    "Got it," replied Justin seriously.

    Hyson rubbed his head, "Wow! Such a good boy you are!"

    "Are you treating him as a dog?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Oh, I hear a dog barking early in the morning. So annoying!" retorted Hyson without even looking at Xiang Wai.

    "I''m your elder sister," said Xiang Wai as she pulled his ear. "Talk nicely to me."

    "Elder sister, good morning! How are you feeling? Did you have a good night''s sleep? Did you have good dreams? Are you tired? Do you want me to bring you some water for washing up?"

    Xiang Wai shuddered seeing him acting like this and pushed him away, "Don''t talk to me like that. It''s creeping me out."

    Hyson shrugged, "See? People like you can''t digest me being nice. So, just get used to me like this. Anyway, life wouldn''t be so fun if we didn''t butt heads every time we meet. Don''t you agree?"

    "I do!" said Justin.

    Hyson smiled at him and said, "Even Justin agrees."

    Xiang Wai sighed and went to wash up first. "Ge, what are we having for breakfast?"

    "Whatever you want to eat," replied Xiang Weimin to her.

    Shui Xian also woke up from their voices and came out. "You should have woke me up. I could have helped you in making breakfast." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "It''s okay. You did the most workst night. Breakfast is simpler. I can handle it on my own," said Xiang Weimin. "Everyone, get ready to eat. Then we''ll pack up everything and start our return journey. We have to get back home on time."

    "Uncle Fai, you said we''d see fireflies," said Justin to Hyson.

    "I thought we''d be able to see some fireflies but I forgot that times have changed. Fireflies are not asmon as they used to be when I was young. I could find them everywhere when I was young. I even caught some and made my own ssmp with them. It was very beautiful. But now, finding fireflies has be a luxury. I understand why people go to fireflies park now to see them. Because we can''t find them outside."

    "Times have changed," said Xiang Wai.

    "No, you should say. Climate has changed. The human race has brought fireflies to almost extinction. It''s no longer easy to even stars in the sky above your head. How could it be easy to see fireflies?"

    "True," said Shui Xian. "I also had a ssmp with fireflies inside."

    "You did?" asked Hyson. "Yeah. My mom got it for me. Apparently, she caught the fireflies too so that I won''t be sad anymore about losing my hamster. But I was sad seeing the fireflies caged inside that ss jar so I set them free."

    "You wasted your mom''s effort."

    "She didn''t mind," said Shui Xian. "Anyway, she said I was a kind kid. And she was happy that her son has such a good heart."

    "Well, there is no doubt about that," said Hyson. "Xian Ge has the best heart here."

    "That''s not true," argued Shui Xian.

    "No, he is right," said Xiang Weimin. "Between all of us, you have the kindest heart."

    "I think Fai is not bad," said Shui Xian.

    "He isn''t like you," said Xiang Wai. "He seems pure but his thoughts aren''t all that pure. He might have a good heart but there is still a tinge of evilness in it. You on the other hand have a genuine heart. That''s why you''re the easiest to get hurt too."

    Shui Xian couldn''t deny that. He knew what kind of a person he was. He had tried hard to change himself over the years too but it was of little effect. He still was the easiest to get hurt because of his goodness. But at least, he wasn''t as blind as before to show his goodness to everyone.

    "That''s why, it is shocking to know how you and Raelle became a couple," added Xiang Wai. "At least, I didn''t think it''d work. But you two seem to really make this mismatched pair work."

    "You need to have the will to make something work. Everything can happen as long as your efforts and your belief are in ce," replied Shui Xian. He would never allow anyone to question how or why everything worked so well between him and Raelle.

    "Justin, I''ll take you to the firefly park when I''m free the next time," promised Hyson to Justin. "This time, it was my mistake. I really didn''t expect not to encounter even one fireflyst night."

    Justin epted the apology readily, "It''s okay. I''ll wait then."

    "Yes, you wait and I''ll take you to see the fireflies for sure. I''ll make sure you have lots of fun."

    "I had a lot of fun this time too," told Justin. "Let''s do it again. I wanna hear more stories."

    "Just to listen to more stories, you''re willing to go through so much?" asked Raelle. "Isn''t it better to pull one of them to your room to tell you bedtime stories at any time?"

    "But that''s different," replied Justin. "I think it''s more exciting when everyone is together."

    "Here I thought you didn''t like a crowd."

    "But family is not a crowd," Justin argued and Raelle shut up.

    His statement made every one of them feel warm in their hearts and they smiled heartily. "Yes, family is not a crowd. What a solid statement!" said Hyson happily. "Ellie, learn something. You''re not even as good as a kid. You even found the space with me around. Even though I''m just another part of you."

    Raelle gave him a look, "How are you a part of me now?"

    "I have always been a part of you. You just refused to acknowledge this part of yours."

    "I don''t dumb parts like these."

    Hyson humphed, "I was never dumb. I was always the clever between the two of us. You''re the dull one and slow one and even a little disoriented one."

    "You can stop there," said Shui Xian.

    "Herees the defender."

    "It''s my responsibility to defend and protect my wife."

    "From what?" asked Hyson.

    "From evil like you," answered Raelle with a nk expression.

 Chapter 1328 Hot Ideals

    1328 Hot Ideals

    After breakfast, they all divided the work and started packing up. This time, Raelle didn''t sit around like a youngdy but actually tried to help. Her movements weren''t a bit jerky at first but she learned quickly and helped dismantle the tent and pack up the furniture and utensils. They packed up the camping gear and ced it right where they found it.

    Taking the bags they carried up, they started their journey back home.

    Kids always have a hundred thousand whys to ask about and Justin was currently no different. He seemed even more excited than yesterday and ran around with Hyson who was the only one who could actually match up Justin''s energy.

    Hyson took something from the ground and started working his magic. Within a minute, he made a grasshopper made of straw and gave it to Justin.

    Justin jumped happily, "Wow! This looks so real!"

    Hyson had a smug expression on his face and said, "Oh, this is nothing."

    Raelle also looked over and said, "Why didn''t I know you were capable of this?"

    Hyson looked back at her and his eyes narrowed with a knowing smile on his lips. He shook his head at her, picked more straw to make a rabbit for her, and gave it to her. "Here. This one''s for you. No need to be jealous of a kid."

    "Who is jealous? I''m not," retorted said Raelle but still snatched the straw rabbit from him. She might have a problem with the real rabbit but this one didn''t hurt at all.

    "Of course, how can our Ellie be jealous of anyone?" "That''s right," said Raelle.

    "I must say, your hands-on ability is quite strong,"mented Xiang Wai. "All he has are useless skills like these," was Raelle''s response.

    Hyson looked at the two sisters and shrugged, "Even if they are useless. They managed to impress you. I think that''s enough."

    "Who is impressed?" asked Raelle.

    "Lies aren''t your game, Ellie," said Hyson. "Howe I never realized that you''d be so easily impressed? Why did I work so hard all these years? I could have offered you this and it would have been enough, no?"

    "Who knows if I would have been impressed back then? You never tried so we''ll never know."

    Hyson tsked at that, "That''s right. I missed out on this."

    "But I have to agree with Wai," started Shui Xian. "Fai has dexterous fingers. His finger coordination is amazing. It''s a shame that you stopped ying piano. Because I think that was really your calling."

    Hyson smiled slightly when he heard that and said, "I don''t know if it was really my calling or not."

    "It was," said Raelle. "But you didn''t want to ept it."

    "Can you me me for that?" asked Hyson.

    "No," replied Raelle. "I didn''t understand back then but I do understand now a little."

    "Thank you so much for your understanding then, Ellie. All I ever wanted in my life was your understanding."

    "You can keep your dramatic act down," said Raelle.

    "I can''t help it," he said.

    "Uncle Fai, look there is a bird over there," came Justin''s call and Hyson''s attention immediately went there.

    Xiang Wai took this chance to step closer to her brother and said, "Ge, are you okay with this all?" n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "What?" asked Xiang Weimin in confusion.

    "Your son is so close to Fai. You know what if he influenced our Justin to be just like him?"

    "I''d love that," replied Xiang Weimin.

    Xiang Wai gave him a nk look.

    Xiang Weimin patted her shoulder, "I genuinely think that Fai is a good influence on Justin. Do you remember when we first met him at the hospital? When we didn''t even know that he was my son."

    "I remember," answered Xiang Wai.

    "Then do you recall how silent, withdrawn, and sensible he was at that time?"

    Xiang Wai nodded her head.

    "He didn''t even look like a kid," added Xiang Weimin. "But by spending just a day with Hyson, Justin seems to have be a very different person. He has a lot more curiosity about smaller things in life. He is livelier and excited about things that are not nts and dinosaurs."

    Xiang Wai agreed with that so she didn''t continue this topic. Raelle took a step back and hid behind Shui Xian even before Hyson could step closer to her. Seeing her reaction, Hysonughed, "Why are you hiding?"

    11:20

    "Every one of us has some influence on Justin," told Xiang Weimin. "And didn''t you see? Justst night, Justin said he wanted to learn so much from all of us. What makes you think he isn''t learning from just watching us all? If kids like someone, they take them as a role model and learn from them. So, I should say you should stop bickering so much with Fai because Justin is always watching. And let me tell you, his learning ability and observation ability is very simr to Raelle''s. So be careful with your words and actions."

    Xiang Wai pursed her lips and frowned before asking, "Are you saying that I am a bad influence?"

    "I did not say that," replied Xiang Weimin.

    "Ellie! Look what we got for you!"

    Raelle took a step back and hid behind Shui Xian even before Hyson could step closer to her. Seeing her reaction, Hysonughed, "Why are you hiding?"

    "I don''t trust you when you say you got something for me. It can never be a good thing," was Raelle''s answer.

    "Oh,e on!"

    Raelle shook her head at him.

    Hyson slowly opened his hands and a frog came into Raelle''s view.

    "I knew it!"

    Hysonughed even louder at her response, "Say hi to your new buddy!"

    "You better keep that thing away from me," said Raelle.

    "Why? It''s so cute," said Hyson.

    "If it''s so cute, eat it! But keep this dirty thing away from me."

    "A little germs won''t kill you."

    "And if it did?" she asked. "You are gonna talk responsibility for my death."

    "Don''t talk nonsense!" said Shui Xian and Hyson at the same time to her.

    Hyson sighed at her, "I''m kidding with you. There is no need to bring up death over such a small matter. You really know how to throw cold water on my hot ideals."

    Shui Xian gave him a look.

    "What? Don''t like my words?"

    "Just shut up!" said Shui Xian.

 Chapter 1329 Keep Distance

    1329 Keep Distance

    Shui Xian stepped up, took that frog from Hyson''s hands, and put it on top of Hyson''s head. Then he went back to Raelle''s side and said, "Look, it''s fixed now."

    Hyson froze where he was and sighed to himself when he saw Raelle taking out her phone to click a snap. He didn''t care and even posed for her with a frog on his head. "Imagine if I post this online for your fans to see," said Raelle.

    "You can do whatever you want, Ellie. As long as you are happy with it," he replied.

    "Yes, my wife should do whatever she wants," agreed Shui Xian and wanted to hug her but she stepped back. "Baby?"

    "You touched that dirty thing," said Raelle.

    Hysonughed out loud seeing this and said, "Xian Ge, poor you!"

    Shui Xian didn''t mind and took out a sanitizer to clean his hands. Then he even took wet wipes to rub his hands vigorously before showing his hands to her, "Are they clean now?"

    "They should be but... I still have doubts," was Raelle''s response.

    Hyson took the frog from his head and ced it on the ground to let it go before saying to Shui Xian, "Ge, unless you take a long shower, she isn''t gonna let you touch her."

    Shui Xian sighed, "Then I''ll have to wait until we get back home. The first thing I''ll do is to wash up."

    "What are you all dawdling for again?" asked Xiang Wai. "When are we getting home at this rate?"

    "Look who is talking," said Hyson.

    "But she is right. We should hurry up," agreed Shui Xian.

    Hyson chuckled, "Ge, are you that eager to take a shower now?"

    "Yes! I gotta hug my wife. Just the thought that I can''t hug her or touch her right now is very disturbing to me."

    Now, Raelle was the one taking the lead to descend the mountain. Well, she was also in a hurry to go back and wash up. Even if she didn''t touch anything dirty, she still couldn''t ept that she hadn''t showered today. And she had been in the forest for almost 24 hours now. So, no one else was in a hurry to get home like her.

    "Fai, why don''t you sing a song for us?" suggested Xiang Wai.

    "Why should I do that?" asked Hyson.

    "To entertain us," replied Xiang Wai. "Isn''t that your job? To entertain people?"

    "People pay to watch me sing. Why should I put on a show for free for you? Who are you again? Do I even know you?"

    "Ge said we should be nicer. What if Justin learned this habit of arguing and poking each other from us?"

    Hyson went silent when he heard that and felt she was right. He should really stop doing this but what to do? He couldn''t control himself whenever he looked at Xiang Wai. It was so tough.

    "Okay, I''ll sing then," said Hyson.

    "A little girl in red hood climbing up the tall mountain..."

    "What are you doing?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Singing!"

    "What song is that?"

    "It''s a kids''s song," he replied. "Did you think I''d sing for you? No, I was singing for Justin. So, stay quiet, sis and just enjoy the song."

    "Ugh! I hate you so much, Fai!"

    "I don''t like you all that much either," he retorted.

    "Can you both use this energy on walking?" asked Shui Xian. "We''d be home by now if you spent this much energy on walking."

    "Xian Ge, you can''tin about us like this now," said Hyson.

    "Exactly, brother-inw. You''re not the only one in a hurry to get back home," added Xiang Wai.

    "Oh, look! You both are on the same page. How wonderful!"

    Both Xiang Wai and Hyson shut up and walked faster than before.

    And since they all didn''t dawdle as much as yesterday, they arrived home very soon. As soon as they appeared at the gate, they found Yue Yue and Mu Chenyan standing at the door, seemingly waiting for them.

    "You guys are finally back!" said Mu Chenyan. Then she looked at Raelle up and down asking, "How are you? Are you feeling ufortable? Did you get hurt? There must be so many insects, right? Did you eat well? How about sleep?"

    As she wanted to hug Raelle, thetter put some distance between them. Mu Chenyan looked hurt and noticing this, Raelle exined immediately, "I need to shower. I''ll give you a hugter. I''ll answer all the questionster too. For now, I need to go to the bathroom and take a shower too."

    Mu Chenyan''s expression changed and she almostughed out but she held back and said, "Okay, okay. Go, hurry up! Take a shower. I''ll prepare something light to eat for you."

    Since Raelle was the first one to arrive, she was the first one to rush to her yard to clean up. Behind her, the others were also stopped by the two worried women of the family. Yue Yue also looked at her son and asked, ''How was it?''

    "Fun!" he replied. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Yue Yue rolled her eyes at her son, ''Only you''d have fun at the trip you nned.''

    "Everyone had fun, Mum. You really look down on your son."

    ''As if I don''t know you.''

    "There is no need to say so much to my godson now," said Mu Chenyan. "He must be tired. You go and freshen up, my dear son. I''ll bring you some snacks."

    "Okay!" "We are also here," said Xiang Wai. "Aunt, can''t you see us? Don''t be so partial so tantly."

    "I''m looking at the younger ones first," said Mu Chenyan. "You are the older sister. And you''re more experienced too."

    "You underestimate your godson too much,"mented Xiang Wai.

    "Wai is right, Aunt. Fai is very resourceful. I didn''t even know that before," said Xiang Weimin. "Well, he is my godson. Of course, he is great," said Mu Chenyan. "I have no doubt about that but still... I only have one godson. I have the right to be worried about him, no?"

 Chapter 1330 Princess Dress

    Chapter 1330 Princess Dress

    In the end, Yue Yue had to drag Mu Chenyan away, ''Let them go inside first.''

    Mu Chenyan sighed and nodded, "Okay, all of you can go and freshen up. We''ll talkter." Seeing them entering the house, she looked at Yue Yue, "I think they had fun."

    ''If you''re so worried why didn''t you just join them?''

    "It''d be awkward with me around," said Mu Chenyan. "Obviously, this was Fai''s idea to bring everyone closer and bond together."

    ''And you just love following his stupid ideas.''

    "You know, my godson is not stupid. His ideas might be a bit different but they are never stupid too. Don''t always say such things to me." Then she also rushed in saying, "I''m gonna prepare something for my Elle. She must be feeling tired from this trip. And Fai must be very hungry too. Do you think I should make something sweet for Justin?"

    Yue Yue almost rolled her eyes at her best friend but held herself back. Forget it. It wasn''t a day or two when Mu Chenyan was worried about others. This was just who she was.

    ''Didn''t we make some sweet-scented osmanthus cakes this morning?''

    From Yue Yue''s reminder, Mu Chenyan was enlightened, "Yes! Why did I forget that? Right. I should bring some sweet-scented osmanthus cakes for Justin."

    "Are the kids back?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    "Yes! They went to wash up. They''lle to see you after that," said Mu Chenyan and rushed to the kitchen.

    "Why is she in a hurry?" ''What do you think?''

    Grandfather Xiang pursed his lips and asked, "She is rushing to feed the kids."

    Yue Yue nodded in response, ''I''ll go and see if she needs help.''

    "Yes, please do before she brings the whole kitchen to the dining table," said Xiang Hulin. "And sorry for the trouble, little sister."

    ''It''s okay,'' responded Yue Yue.

    "Sometimes I think that Mom''s spirit has taken over Chenchen," said Xiang Hulin to his father. "She loves to feed people just as much as Mom."

    "True," agreed Grandfather Xiang. "But whatever. As long as she is happy. And you should be happy that she at least has an interest in home matters now."

    Xiang Hulin nodded in agreement, "That''s right. Before she didn''t know anything about what was happening at home. It''s almost as you used to say that once she is forced, she''ll learn everyone on her own. And Mom used to say that you''re just spoiling her this way."

    "I didn''t spoil her," said Grandfather Xiang. "I obviously raised a beautiful and capable woman."

    "You''re waiting for something, Father?"

    "Yeah. I''m waiting for Yenay," replied Grandfather Xiang.

    "You are missing her already?"

    "Not really. I''m just waiting to ask how she spent the past 24 hours. You don''t understand. This isn''t herfort zone. She is good at adjusting but she doesn''t like change all that much either. She was raised in true luxury from a young age. The only time she has had to face a difficult and ufortable environment was when she got kidnapped. Apart from that, she was truly raised infort and warmth. So, this past 24 hours had been the first time she had such a normal experience. I have to know how she cope with it." n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Xiang Hulin gave his father a look, "Father, have you noticed?"

    "What?"

    "You are not just a daughter ve but also a granddaughter ve."

    Grandfather Xiang gave his son a look, "What''s wrong with that? Did I do something wrong? Are you thinking about the times when I used to throw you to the barracks to train when you were younger? You wanted me to raise my soft and adorable Yenay like that? No way!"

    "I didn''t say that," said Xiang Hulin. "I''m just saying that you didn''t even go this soft with Chenchen. You even raised her roughly. So, howe it''s different for Raelle? Is it really as they say that as parents people are strict but they be very soft when they be grandparents?"

    "There is no such thing," said Grandfather Xiang.

    "Right. That''s what I thought. I don''t think you''d be this soft with Wai too."

    "It''s not like I don''t love my eldest granddaughter."

    "No, you do. But the status of her in your heart is different. Isn''t it?"

    Grandfather Xiang didn''t deny it, "Yes. It''s very different. It''s not like I didn''t put Raelle in some rough situations growing up. She had to follow the same training as you all did. But since she didn''t have to be a soldier, she didn''t have to continue that training excessively when she grew up. I always had to force Raelle to make sure she''d be willing to step out of herfort zone and explore outside. But Chenyan made sure to make everythingfortable in her life. So, it can be said that even if I wanted to, I wouldn''t be able to give Raelle the same lifestyle as you."

    He sighed to himself and went on, "First of all, she had very few interests in life. So, she hardly ever asked for anything from me. She never had to step out of the house to buy herself food, clothing, transportation, or anything at all. Everything was always avable for her at home which made it even more difficult for her to do things out of herfort zone."

    "Well, you still managed to raise her well."

    "I''ll borrow Chenyan''s words to say, she grew up on her own. She hardly gave us a chance to do anything."

    Xiang Hulin shook his head as he didn''t agree with those words, "Father, you don''t have to say that to me. I understand you and Chenchen very well. You guys gave your all for Raelle and that''s why she was able to grow up safely and became what she is today."

    "I''ll still say she was worry-free," said Grandfather Xiang. "You pick out any dress for her, she''d just wear it as long as it''sfortable without any question. The first time she actually raised an objection was when Chenyan purposely bought a beautiful princess dress for her and she was not happy with it."

 Chapter 1331 Taking Advantage

    Chapter 1331 Taking Advantage

    "But I still wore it," came Raelle''s voice. Both of them looked over and found Raelle standing at the door for who knew how long.

    Grandfather Xiang beckoned her over and Raelle went to his side. She sat down on the carpet and put her head on Grandfather Xiang''s knees. Grandfather Xiang put his hand on her head lovingly and said, "Yes, my Yenay did wear that princess dress even though she didn''t want to. All because she thought it''d make her Yanyan happy."

    "I''m just such a sensible person," said Raelle.

    Grandfather Xiangughed at her response, "Of course, you are! And she did a lot more just to make me and her Yanyan happy. So, don''t think my Yenay is spoiled and pampered. She is anything but unreasonable. She always knew how to not hurt my feelings. She was always a caring little cotton-padded jacket of mine who brought me warmth."

    Raelle looked up and asked, "I did bring you warmth, Opa?"

    "Yes."

    "But everyone says I''m cold."

    "They know nothing," said Grandfather Xiang. "My granddaughter is such a warm person."

    Raelle was actually happy to hear this response from him. Xiang Hulin looked at the happiness in her eyes and then looked at the love in his father''s eyes as he lovinglybed his fingers through Raelle''s hair so gently. Even he had never gotten this treatment as a son. But then again, maybe it was because his father believed that sons were supposed to be raised poorly.

    "How was your trip?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    "So troublesome," she responded.

    Grandfather Xiangughed at this very expected response and said, "You didn''t have fun?"

    "Fun? What is that? All I know is that I had to go through so much trouble. I don''t wanna do this again."

    "Then you''d have to win in an argument with Fai to escape from such trouble in the future," said Grandfather Xiang.

    "He is my nemesis! I feel like he came into my life to go against me."

    "Isn''t that obvious already?" asked Hyson. "And can you stopining about me to Opa? He of course knows what kind of a person I am. He won''t believe whatever you say about me. Right, Opa?"

    "Well, I obviously can''t just do that. My little prince is also very important to me and I have to hear his point of view too."

    "See?" started Raelle. "Here hees to go against me again."

    "Ellie, aren''t you tired? Why don''t you take a nap?"

    "I don''t have a habit of taking a nap."

    "Right. I almost forgot that robots don''t sleep."

    "I''m not a robot!"

    "Yes, I forgot for a second. Now, you''ve ascended to the human realm."

    "Ascended to the human realm?" asked Raelle. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Yeah. Because you fell in love. Only mortals do that."

    "Who said that? Immortals can also fall in love."

    Hysonughed out loud, "Ellie, just that fact that you said is saying a lot about your transformation from a robot to a human. Obviously, before you never believed in immortals but now, you are even willing to believe in the love of immortals. What a change!"

    Raelle wanted to ignore him right now so she said, "Scram already!"

    "Don''t want to," replied Hyson.

    "You both are full of energy,"mented Grandfather Xiang. "How can you both be so... I don''t even know what to say."

    "Then don''t say anything, Elder Xiang," said Mu Chenyan as she came to them with a bowl of porridge and put it on the coffee table. She looked at Raelle and said, "Youe and eat. Then you''ll have more energy to argue with Fai."

    "Who wants to argue with him? I don''t even want to see his face for at least a week now!"

    Hyson pouted and looked so pitiful, "Yanyan, look what she is saying."

    "You have selective hearing anyway. So, just ignore whatever she said."

    Hyson became happy again, "That''s true. If I took her words seriously, would I be even here right now? I don''t think so."

    "I don''t think so either," said Mu Chenyan. "Am I supposed to eat here?" asked Raelle.

    "Yes," replied Mu Chenyan. "There is no need to go to the dining table. You''re already sitting on the carpet. Just eat it here. Don''t be so particr all the time."

    "Yeah. What''s with so much drama?" "Hyson!"

    "Yes?"

    "Why are you here?"

    "Yanyan is bringing me snacks too," said Hyson. "Right, Yanyan?"

    "Yes, yes. Your mother is bringing it here in a minute," replied Mu Chenyan.

    Hyson happily nodded and sat down with Raelle. "Should I help you blow on the hot porridge?"

    "I can do that myself," said Raelle.

    "I am such a helpful best friend. Why don''t you take advantage of this?"

    "Isn''t it enough that one of them knows how to take advantage of the other?" she retorted.

    "When did I take advantage of you?"

    "All the time!"

    "You''re wrongly using me now, Ellie! That''s not nice. You''re pointing a finger at my character which is purer than white jade." He flicked his non-existent tears and looked at Xiang Hulin, "Hi, Uncle! I didn''t see you there."

    "I guess you don''t see anything once Raelle is around."

    "That''s not true," he said. "But when I''m annoying her, I, of course, can''t see anyone or anything around. Can''t help it." He looked at Raelle again and said, "And it''s about time I stop that before she dumps the bowl of hot porridge on my head."

    "She won''t do that," said Xiang Hulin. "My daughter is not like this."

    "You know nothing about your daughter," argued Hyson. "She might not do it to others because she is too civilized for that. But I am not just any one. I''m Hyson! She gets to do whatever she wants to me. It includes and not limited to pouring things on me, beating me, scolding me and whatnot. I''m such a poor best friend. So miserable!"

    Raelle looked up at him and Hyson instantly zipped his lips and locked them and threw the key away. Then he even gave her a big and ttering smile.

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 Chapter 1332 Officially Blind

    Chapter 1332 Officially Blind

    Looking at the noisy living room, Grandfather Xiang was feeling delighted. After all, it was too silent when only the old people were at home. Only with the younger generation around, the liveliness returned and he felt content.

    "Why didn''t you dry your hair beforeing over?" Xiang Wai touched her damp hair and shrugged, "I got impatient."

    "Are you that hungry?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "Yeah," she replied. "I''m famished. Please give me something to eat."

    "Sit down with them," said Mu Chenyan. "I''ll bring you something."

    Xiang Hulin stood up and brought a towel that he threw at his daughter''s head saying, "Dry your hair. Don''t get a headacheter on."

    "Papa, it''ll dry out on its own," she whined. "I can''t move. I can''t even lift my arm right now."

    "How are you nning on eating if you can''t even lift your arm?" asked Hyson.

    "Don''t worry, I won''t ask you for help."

    "I wasn''t gonna help anyway."

    Xiang Wai stuck out her tongue at him while rubbing her short hair with the dry towel. By the time she was done, a bowl of fried noodles was ced in front of her. She took off the towel from her head and threw it at Xiang Weimin who just entered the room, "Ge, catch!"

    Instinctively, Xiang Weimin caught the towel, and seeing Xiang Wai''s proud look, he shook his head. "Learn to do your own things."

    "When you''re around, I don''t feel like doing my own things," said Xiang Wai in response.

    "Weimin, where is Justin?" asked Xiang Hulin.

    "He was tired so after the shower, he fell asleep. I had to dry his hair for him," told Xiang Weimin.

    "Wake him up and let him eat something light to cushion his stomach. How can he sleep on an empty stomach," said Mu Chenyan.

    "We had breakfast beforeing down," said Xiang Weimin.

    "And after the hike down, everything is digested," retorted Mu Chenyan.

    "You still don''t have to worry, Aunt. Fai found so many berries for Justin on our way down. He is well-fed. So, let him sleep. When he wakes up, you can feed him whatever you want."

    Mu Chenyan frowned, "Fai!"

    "Yes?"

    "Did you even wash the berries before giving them to Justin?"

    "Yanyan, you''re hurting my feelings by saying that. I''m such a clean and hygienic baby. I put all the berries in my water bottle first and only after rinsing them thoroughly did I offer them to Justin. How can Ipromise on Justin''s health," said Hyson.

    "That''s good. Good boy!" praised Mu Chenyan. And in response, Hyson smiled sheepishly.

    "Good boy?" repeated Raelle as soon as she put down her spoon. "You think too highly of your godson. Do you even know what he did?"

    Mu Chenyan looked at Raelle and asked, "What did he do now?"

    "He picked up a dirty frog for me," told Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips and stared at Hyson, "Fai, how can you do that? It''s not like you don''t know about Elle''s habits. You know she gets ufortable with even a speck of dust on her clothes and can''t rx until those clothes are off her body. How can you pick a frog and offer it to her?"

    "I just wanted to show it to her," replied Hyson. "It''s not like I put it on her body. In fact, in return, Xian Ge put the frog on my head but I didn''tin. Did I?"

    "Who cares about your head?" asked Raelle.

    "Okay, I''m hurt!"

    "Go look for a doctor then." n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Hyson took a deep breath and said, "Fine, it was my mistake. I''m sorry for making you ufortable. Is that okay?"

    "Well, I''ll be magnanimous today and let you off."

    "Thank you for your generosity."

    "You''re wee," she replied. Then she pointed at Xiang Weimin, "You nephew wanted to bring a rabbit cub home to raise."

    Mu Chenyan rubbed the space between her brows and turned to Xiang Weimin. "Okay, I''ll say this once. Elle doesn''t like small animals. Not furry ones for sure. Since you didn''t know that, I won''t say anything for now. But please, remember that in the future, and don''t talk about having pets at home."

    Xiang Weimin sighed, "I understand. It''s not like I brought it home. She already scared Justin enough that he refused to bring that rabbit home. I just thought it looked cute. I didn''t know Raelle didn''t like small animals."

    "She doesn''t like any small creatures. Worms, insects, animals, or even birds. She hates everyone," said Hyson.

    "It''s not hate," said Raelle.

    "Yes, yes. You just don''t feelfortable with those things. Wait! You don''t even feelfortable with humans. What a miracle you are to survive until now!"

    "If it was possible, the first human I''d kick out of my life would be you."

    "That''s impossible!" said Hyson with a cheeky grin. "Don''t wanna continue? What about our Major? Don''t have anyints with her?"

    "She started telling ghost stories and even imed that she met a ghost in person. A ghost who helped her survive a very dangerous moment," said Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan looked at Xiang Wai with a probing look but thetter was too immersed in eating to realize anything. She could only sigh and say, "Wai..." But she didn''t continue. Then she looked back at Raelle, "Your sister was just trying to enliven the environment. Don''t take things seriously. Just think they are just stories."

    "Yeah but it was a serious waste of my time," said Raelle.

    "It happens," said Mu Chenyan. "It''s okay to waste some time in life. We aren''t in a race. So, nothing too serious here. Just rx."

    "Why don''t youin about Xian Ge?" asked Hyson. "What''s there toin about?"

    "Tsk. Tsk." was Hyson''s response to that. "You''re so partial. We all did something wrong but Xian Ge is the most innocent one, eh?"

    "Of course," she replied.

    "Okay, my best friend is officially blind these days,"mented Hyson.

 Chapter 1333 First Word

    Chapter 1333 First Word

    "Do you want me to poke your eyes to make you blind too?" asked Raelle.

    "No thanks," replied Hyson. "I still need these beautiful eyes of mine." He turned his head and said, "Oh, Xian Ge is here! Come and get your wife. She is out of her mind. She has so manyints with all of us."

    "Xian,e and eat something," said Mu Chenyan.

    Shui Xian waved his hand, "I''m not hungry."

    "Why are you here then?" asked Hyson.

    "As you just said, I''m here to get my wife back," he replied. He walked over to Raelle''s side and asked in a low voice, "Should we go back to our room?"

    Raelle looked at him and nodded in response.

    "Come, I''ll carry you," said Shui Xian.

    "She can walk," reminded Hyson.

    "But she walked for so long already."

    "You did too."

    "Fai, stop being nosy!"

    "Got it!" replied Hyson. "I do feel like I''m getting nosier than ever. What is wrong with me?"

    "Maybe you''re feeling lonely," said Xiang Wai. "I''m Fai. Yue Fai! I don''t feel lonely," he replied.

    "You haven''t understood your own heart yet," said Xiang Wai in a sad tone.

    Seeing Shui Xian carrying Raelle back, Hyson said, "He really came all the way here to get his wife back."

    "What''s so new about that? Don''t you know they are clingy?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "They are in love," said Xiang Weimin. "You both don''t need toment on their rtionship. Mind your own business!"

    "Ge, we are just talking," Xiang Wai and Hyson had the same expression right now.

    "Your brother is right," said Xiang Hulin. "Don''tment on your sister''s rtionship with her husband. They are happy with each other and you don''t need to question their happiness."

    "Yes, Papa!"

    Mu Chenyan came to sit down with all of them and looked at her niece, nephew, and godson. "Tell me, I sent my Elle with you all for one day. Just one day. Why does shee back with so manyints?"

    "She is being unreasonable!" said Hyson. "You can''t possibly me us for her squeamishness."

    "She isn''t squeamish. She is just particr about a few things. Being clean happens to be one of them. She believes animals carry lots of germs so she is unwilling to touch them. I don''t need to remind you how much effort it took me to convince her to learn horseback riding."

    Hyson nodded his head when he recalled that time, "True. And no one was allowed to get on her horse too or that person would be dead. She had disinfected everything before getting on the horse. I felt so bad for her horse when that happened."

    "I felt bad for your horse too," said Mu Chenyan. "What did I do?"

    "I don''t wanna even remember your atrocities right now," she replied. "Now, I believe I told you all to take care of my girl. How can you make her ufortable with so many things."

    "We tried our best."

    "Well, your best wasn''t really the best. At least, it didn''t have the best result." n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Chenyan!"

    "Yes, Elder Xiang!"

    "Stop it," said Grandfather Xiang. "Let Raelle explore the world. The world she finds ufortable. Stop drawing a circle around her where she is alwaysfortable. Let go already. Her epting ability is a lot better than when she was younger."

    "Okay, it''s me who is losing theposure here. I understand that I always do this. But I can''t help it. Not when ites to her." Mu Chenyan took deep breaths and thinking of something she suddenly froze. Then she frowned to herself, "Wait! Did my Elle just fileints with me?"

    "Yeah," replied Hyson.

    "No way!" said Mu Chenyan.

    "Wow! Yanyan, you''re taking your sweet time letting that sink in."

    Mu Chenyan covered her mouth in surprise, "She actually used words to tell me what went wrong. Hahaha! Oh my gosh! I can''t believe this. This doesn''t happen. She doesn''t like sharing her feelings. No, she doesn''t know how to share her feelings. But just now, she did. She DID! She actually did!"

    "You need to calm down, Yanyan!" said Hyson. "I know it happens once in a blue moon but don''t get so excited over it. You need to breathe."

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head and breathed in and breathed out. "I''m so happy!"

    "Aunt, you are overreacting," said Xiang Wai.

    "She isn''t," said Grandfather Xiang. "You can''t understand Chenyan''s emotions right now. After all, you didn''t grow up with Raelle. You don''t know what she was like when she was younger. By the time you entered her world, she was already very normal thanks to Chenyan and Fai''s efforts."

    Hyson nodded his head, "Yes, yes! I had a huge credit for this. You don''t understand what weirdo your sister was when I first met her."

    Xiang Wai didn''t say anything when she heard that because she really couldn''t even imagine what kind of a person Raelle actually was when she was younger. So, it was better for her to stay quiet. She really couldn''t understand Mu Chenyan''s overreaction but she understood her happiness for sure.

    It was almost like when parents heard their child''s first word and they got excited over it. That''s how Xiang Wai felt about Mu Chenyan''s reaction but she didn''t say a word about this. Maybe it was really the same feeling to Mu Chenyan right now. How would she know?

    "You all should also go and rest for a while," said Xiang Hulin. "Even if you can''t sleep. Just lie down for a while. We''ll meet at dinner."

    "Yes, you all should go and rest now," agreed Grandfather Xiang. "It''s time for me to take a nap too." Xiang Hulin helped his father back to his room to take a rest. Hyson also went to his yard and so did Xiang Wai and Xiang Weimin.

    There was only Mu Chenyan and Yue Yue left in the living room. With Mu Chenyan sitting in a daze and Yue Yue patting her hand.

 Chapter 1334 Own League

    Chapter 1334 Own League

    Shui Xian not only took Raelle back to their yard but also made her lie down with him. Even when she said she wasn''t sleepy, he still insisted on holding her in his arms. His excuse was that he couldn''t sleep without her around. So, Raelle justid down with him. Originally, she wasn''t sleepy. After all, she had no habit of taking naps. But listening to Shui Xian''s even breathing, his familiar scent, and the warmth of his arms around her, she didn''t even notice when she actually fell asleep. Perhaps, her body was really tired from walking.

    By the time she woke up, it was already two hourster. She opened her eyes and looked at the familiar and somewhat unfamiliar surroundings. It took her a moment toe to herself. Seeing the time, she rubbed her temples and then looked at her sleeping husband. Shui Xian hadn''t slept wellst night so he was still sleeping without any sign of waking up anytime soon.

    It was kinda surprising thatst night, it was actually him who had trouble sleeping in the sleeping bag rather than Raelle. Maybe that''s why they say, life is full of surprises.

    Raelle held his hand and gently moved it off of her body before slipping away. She couldn''ty down anymore. She washed up a little and went out.

    Strolling around in this big mansion, she came to a stop when she saw Mu Chenyan. And then she heard her saying, "Uncle Liu, you really grow the best cucumbers. How about you ask Aunt to make me a few jars of pickles to take back with me?"

    The old man before herughed heartily, "Miss Mu doesn''t even have to mention it. You always take pickles when youe. Your aunt has been waiting for you. She just went to her natal family for a couple of days, she''ll be back in the evening and then you will get your share of the pickles. It''s funny how you''re always so greedy for pickles. It''s such a worthless thing."

    "Uncle Liu doesn''t understand. I learned from aunt how she makes pickles with her secret recipe but it never turns out the same." She wanted to continue but seeing Raelle, she stopped and waved at her, "Baby, what are you doing out here under the sun?"

    "The sun isn''t that strong anymore," replied Raelle.

    "But it''s still the middle of the summer. It''s hot outside. Why don''t you stay inside?"

    "It''s fine," said Raelle. "What are you doing?"

    "I''m just checking up on Uncle Liu''s vegetable garden. Come and see these cute cherry tomatoes. They are making me hungry."

    Raelle walked up to her side and looked at the cherry tomatoes she was talking about. Yes, they looked very cute. Red and juicy. But Raelle didn''t feel hungry just looking at them. She turned to look at Mu Chenyan.

    "Are you wondering howe these tomatoes are enough to make me feel hungry?"

    Raelle nodded in response.

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her head, "They look so delicious. Of course, I''d feel hungry. In my mind, they aren''t just cherry tomatoes. There are a hundred ways to eat them too. And on the top is my spaghetti sauce made with cherry tomatoes. I''m suddenly craving it."

    Raelle did not know how to respond to this so she just stayed silent and looked at other vegetables in the vegetable garden. Everything looked clean and was grown naturally without any pesticides or chemical fertilizers. Seeing the different colors of the vegetables, actually made her feel good. n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Did you sleep for a while?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "Yeah. I didn''t even realize it and fell asleep. So odd."

    "What''s odd about that? You might not know but your body must be tired after this camping trip. So, it''s not surprising that you fell asleep without noticing it. Tell me, how do you feel now?"

    "I feel the same," she said.

    Mu Chenyan took a deep breath, "Forget it. I''m asking useless questions anyway. Youe with me and let''s look around the whole vegetable garden. I''ll introduce all the vegetables to you."

    "I''m not that oblivious," said Raelle. "I know all the vegetables."

    "Yes, yes, you do. But... You don''t know how they are grown. Or whether they grow above the ground or under the ground. Like potatoes are under the ground and tomatoes are above the ground."

    "And I need this information for?"

    "Just to expand your knowledge reserves," replied Mu Chenyan. She didn''t listen to her and took her on a walk around the vegetable garden. She even plucked up a cucumber and wanted to eat it but Raelle held her hand before she could take a bite.

    "It''s unclean," reminded Raelle.

    "There are no chemicals used to grow it and no pesticides. It''s safe. You can eat it like this."

    "Unhygienic," insisted Raelle.

    "Okay, fine. I''ll wash it first," said Mu Chenyan and went over to wash it with water before biting it with a crunch sound. "Oh, this is so delicious. As expected of organically produced vegetables. They are just in their own league."

    Raelle didn''t want to see her having fun while eating a cucumber so she looked around and asked, "Is that a well?"

    Mu Chenyan looked over and nodded, "It is."

    "Can we see it?"

    Mu Chenyan shrugged carelessly, "Why not?" She took her to the side of the well. It was covered with a wooden cover so Raelle couldn''t see inside. "Do you want me to ask someone to uncover it?"

    "Is the water inside clean?" asked Raelle.

    "Yes, it''s still drinkable. It''s been here for years. But it never dried down even during the famine. So, every head of the Xiang family just chooses to let it be instead of destroying it. Anyway, it''s not like it''s in our way." Taking a pause, she asked, "You didn''t answer. Wanna see inside?"

    Raelle thought about it before shaking her head. She wasn''t all that curious about the inside either.

 Chapter 1335 Just Not Enough

    Chapter 1335 Just Not Enough

    "It''s okay," said Mu Chenyan. "There is always someone around to help. You don''t have to shake your head just because you don''t wanna trouble others." How could she not tell what was on her mind? She knew it without Raelle having to say anything at all.

    "But I''m not all that curious either," told Raelle.

    "Yes, but this is your blind spot. You have only seen wells in books or videos. This is your first time seeing it in person. So, I can understand that you wouldn''t like to see the inside. Don''t think so much about it. Just tell me what you want and I''ll handle it," said Mu Chenyan and raised her hand. Someone dide to her side, waiting for the instructions. "Ask someone to uncover the well for me."

    So within minutes, four strong men came to lift the heavy wooden cover that protected the well. Only then did Raelle step closer to the edge of the well and look down to explore the inside. This was really her first time seeing a real well so up close and it wasn''t dry either. She could see her own face in the clean water below.

    "Be careful and stay away from the edge. Don''t stand so close. What am I gonna do if you identally fell in?"

    Raelle looked at Mu Chenyan who was worrying about her safety, "I might not be very good at it but I also know how to stay away from danger."

    "As long as you know," said Mu Chenyan. "Okay. I have seen enough. You can cover it," said Raelle and took Mu Chenyan from there. "Why are you alone wandering around?"

    "It''s because all of you went to rest. Yue Yue also took Kuijun out because they wanted to see the night market here. Ge and Zhao went out to do something too. That leaves me who has nothing to do so I just started checking up on things around the house."

    "Isn''t it early for the night market?" asked Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan pinched her cheek, "As if you know what time the night markets start. You have never even been to one."

    Raelle fell silent, "Yes, I have never been to one. It''s because it''s crowded. And, I don''t have to go to know the timing. It''s obviously called a night market. Doesn''t that mean it starts at night?"

    Mu Chenyanughed at her logic, "That''s true. But you''re slightly wrong. It starts setting up in the evening. Also, it''s not close to here. You have to drive for a couple of hours to get to the closest night market from here. So, they didn''t go early. It''s just the right time. By the time they get there, the fun would have just started."

    "Is it really fun there?" asked Raelle.

    "It''s fun. You can y games, eat all kinds of food from stalls, you can buy some trinkets like handmade things by local people. It''s a mixture of a lot of things. But it''s a ce that''s a big no for you."

    "Why?"

    "Isn''t it obvious? You''d never want to squeeze in with people. You won''t want to sit in a stall to eat. So, it''s not fun to you at all. It''s better if you don''t go."

    Raelle nodded her head, "I thought Xian might want to go and he might enjoy it."

    "He won''t go because he knows you don''t like such ces," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Do you think he caters too much to my preferences?" asked Raelle.

    "Yes, he does," replied Mu Chenyan without any hesitation. "His likes and dislikes are slowly starting to revolve around you. His life is all about you."

    "Isn''t that a bad thing?" n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "It depends on people," said Mu Chenyan. "Different people have different experiences and different situations. Xian''s situation is that he is the kind of person to takes his feelings very seriously. His life would revolve around the person he loves and at the moment, that person is you. He personally doesn''t see anything wrong with that. And to be very honest, you need someone like that in your life who can put you above everything."

    Raelle contemted her words before giving her a nod, showing that she understood. "By the way, I didn''t even get the chance to ask you. How was your meeting with Uncle Zhao''s grandparents?"

    "Unexpected," was Mu Chenyan''s response. "I was not expecting his grandparents to be so cool at this age. They are older than Elder Xiang but look so hale and hearty. Their eyes are so clear. I didn''t find any depression in their eyes or sadness. I guess that''s the reason why they are so healthy at this age."

    "I didn''t ask you topliment Uncle Zhao''s grandparents," said Raelle. "I meant to ask whether they liked you or not."

    "How is that possible that they don''t like me? Who am I? I''m Mu Chenyan. How can they not like a person like me?"

    "You can keep your narcissism to yourself, for now, Yanyan. As if I don''t know how nervous you were before meeting them. You''re the one who told me from a young age that I should not be like you because older people don''t like people like you because they think you''re not polite enough, not well-behaved enough, not sensible enough, just not enough."

    Mu Chenyan smiled recalling that, "I wasn''t lying to you. The older generation really didn''t like me. After all, I''m not reserved enough. I''m too unrestrained and whatnot. But this wasn''t the case with Zhao''s grandparents. They seemed cooler than me. And I''m damn sure they must have cooler stories to tell about their youth too. Otherwise, they wouldn''t be okay with their boring grandson dating a lively person like me."

    "Or maybe they are just wise enough to not interfere in the matters of the younger generation. Maybe they just have solid faith in the choice their grandson made regarding his life partner. After all, it''s not them who are gonna live with you but it''s Uncle Zhao. So, his thoughts matters more. Right?"

 Chapter 1336 Nature Takes Its Course

    Chapter 1336 Nature Takes Its Course

    "What you just said is also very reasonable," said Mu Chenyan. "Well, we won''t know what''s the real reason. So, there is no point in thinking about it. Right?"

    "Yes," agreed Raelle. "Where are you taking me?"

    "Just follow me," said Mu Chenyan mysteriously and pulled her to the far end of the mansion. She opened the door and walked out with Raelle. As they stepped out, they could see the view of different fields down there. "Tada!"

    "What am I supposed to be looking at?" asked Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan shook her head and held her shoulders to make her look in a particr direction as she pointed, "See those terraced fields?"

    "Yes," answered Raelle.

    "That''s our tea farm," she replied. "On the far right, we have our rice fields. Since the rice had only been nted for a couple of months, you can''t see the real beauty of it. But this is a sight to see during the autumn harvest."

    "We have rice fields?" asked Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan gave her a look and sighed, "This is why I tell you to pay attention to the ounts that I settle every month so that you can know what our family does apart from business. Yes, we have our own fields. I have worked in those rice fields too."

    "Was it tiring?" asked Raelle.

    "It was fine. The worst part of working in rice fields are the leeches that get stuck to your skin and start sucking blood like it''s free of cost."

    "That experience must be something," said Raelle.

    "Yeah. It was something," said Mu Chenyan. "You know what? You shoulde here more in the future and see things. For instance, you shoulde and see when the farmers are picking tea. You should also see how crops are harvested and grown too. It''s an experience. Even if you don''t learn it, at least, you won''t look like the person who doesn''t even know how the food she eats is grown."

    "I''ll try," replied Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan pulled her to sit on the stone bench and said, "Once upon a time, I used to love sitting here and looking at everything from this height. Look at the sun."

    "You all have a weird obsession with watching sunsets and sunrises," said Raelle. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her head, "It''s not an obsession. It''s just... In this busy life, when you get the chance to see simple things like sunsets and sunrises, they actually bring you a subtle feeling of joy. Just think about it, how many times do we notice the sun in our day-to-day life? So, when we sit down specifically to watch the sunset, it makes it special even though it happens every single day."

    Raelle looked up at the aged sycamore tree which was providing them with shade right now. Its leaves were fluttering slowly in the wind. Mu Chenyan took a deep breath and asked, "How was it really? Your camping trip? Was it really that ufortable?"

    Raelle looked at Mu Chenyan and shook her head, "It was ufortable because it was new. I have never been exposed to such living conditions so it was difficult to ept it all at once. But it wasn''t all that bad either. I know they all tried to make it asfortable for me as possible. The only thing is that I did not get to go to the bathroom for 24 hours. That was a difficult thing to do."

    Mu Chenyanughed out loud, "You held it in for so long?"

    "Or else?"

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips and shook her head, "Nothing. Sorry for your experience. Next time, we''ll go to the camping grounds. There are a lot of facilities avable there to make it convenient for campers. So, you''d like it better there. This was a real wild experience."

    Raelle didn''t continue the topic and took a while to bring up the topic, "Actually, I feel like I didn''t fit in there."

    "Huh?"

    "They all had some kind of an experience regarding camping," told Raelle. "It was my first time apart from Justin who is a kid. I knew nothing."

    "What''s there to be ashamed about? We all have our own experiences in life. How can we all be the same?"

    "But they all had simrities," said Raelle. "They all had stories to tell. They all had some adventures in life. The only incident considered an adventure in my life would be when I was kidnapped. I can''t think of anything else." Mu Chenyan''s expression changed when she heard this. "They all had simr experiences. They all had times when they hurt their parents just because they couldn''t understand the real intentions of their parents. I couldn''t rte to anything."

    Mu Chenyan turned serious. "Don''t look so serious. I''m just sharing it with you."

    Mu Chenyan came to sit closer to her and put her arm around her shoulder saying, "I''m d that you shared it with me. I love it when my Elle shares her feelings with me. And if you say, you can''t rte, it''s not difficult to understand. You have always been the most considerate one in this family. So, we never had times where you''d hurt me or Elder Xiang. You''d always do what we told you to do even if you didn''t like doing it. Let''s take your blind date as an example. Elder Xiang was insistent on sending you to blind dates and you''re intent on ruining them." She hugged her shoulders closer and added, "You don''t have to think so much. Not having your parents around doesn''t make you different from others. None of them had a perfect family either."

    "Who said I was feeling bad about that?" asked Raelle. "I have never felt like I am different just because I don''t have my parents around me. You of all people should know that. You have never let me feel like I need more people in life. You filled in all the empty ces in my life all by yourself."

    "Okay, stopplimenting me so much. I''m gonna start floating," said Mu Chenyan.

    "You''d be a wonderful mother, Yanyan."

    Mu Chenyan stared at her, "I already have a daughter like you and a son like Fai. Why would I need more children? And that too, at this age?"

    "There is nothing wrong with your age," said Raelle. "Our medical technology is definitely advanced enough at this point that you can have a safe and healthy child at this age too. And I think you should. You deserve to have a normal child. Raising me and Hyson was certainly not normal."

    "But I had fun," replied Mu Chenyan. "I had a lot of fun. You won''t understand this. And who can guarantee that I''ll have a normal kid? Look at me and then look at Zhao. Combining our genes, do you really think there is a chance of having a normal kid? I highly doubt that. If we ended up having a really normal kid in the future, that''d be a miracle on its own."

    "Don''t act like you don''t wanna have a kid," said Raelle. "I know you''re actually anticipating what your and Uncle Zhao''s genes could produce."

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips and didn''t refute.

    "I''d say you should not deprive yourself just because you think you''re old now. Give yourself a chance."

    "I''d just let nature take its course. There is no hurry. And I won''t actively be looking for it too. I''m already a grandaunt. Soon, I''ll have to look after your kids too. So, having my own kid at this age will really mess up the seniority in this family."

    "Forget about seniority."

    "Okay, I''ll listen to you," said Mu Chenyan. "How about we go back inside? Everyone might be up by now. And your husband must be very anxious looking for you."

    "There is no reason for him to be anxious," replied Raelle. "By the way, Hyson insisted on treasure hunt. Is there really a treasure in the mountains? Don''t talk about how nature is a treasure to us too. I''m talking about the real treasure."

    Mu Chenyan took a moment before responding in a low voice, "There really is one. But I don'' know where it is. In fact, only Elder Xiang knows where it is. Because only the head of the family has the location of the family treasure. But, I know the location of my Mu family''s treasure. Do you want the map?"

    "Keep it to yourself," said Raelle. "I don''t need any treasure. It''s just that Hyson kept talking about it in my ear for so long that I really wanted to know the truth behind it."

    "Well, now you know."

    "Yes, now I know."

    Mu Chenyan happily took her back inside. She really didn''t know where the location of the treasure was or what was inside it. She just heard from her godmother that every generation of the Xiang family would add something to that treasure which was actually like a family heirloom at this point. And she also knew what Elder Xiang added to that already rich treasure because she selected it.

 Chapter 1337 Secret Sauce

    Chapter 1337 Secret Sauce

    "Grandaunt! Where are you?"

    Mu Chenyan acted like she didn''t hear anything and even asked Raelle, "Is this Justin''s voice? Why is he looking for his grandaunt here?"

    Raelle gave her a look, "Yanyan, you are his grandaunt."

    Mu Chenyan was startled and hit her head, "It seems I''m still not very used to being a grandaunt." She actually forgot that she got promoted a while ago and from the title of aunt, she had also be a grandaunt. She touched the fine lines beside her eyes which weren''t very clear and muttered, "I''m getting old. I''m feeling this strongly these days." Taking a deep breath, she called back, "Justin, I''m here!"

    Justin ran with short legs towards her side and looked up, "I''ve been looking for you. Where were you?"

    "Can''t you tell?" came Hyson''s voice. "Yanyan was with her Elle. How would she care about the rest of us?"

    "Don''t be so sour!" said Mu Chenyan and crouched down to face Justin. "Why were you looking for me?"

    "I brought something for you," replied Justin excitedly.

    "Ahem!" Hyson coughed as if to give a signal and instantly, Justin changed his words.

    "I mean, we brought you something."

    Mu Chenyan first looked at Hyson and then at Justin, "Oh, what is it?"

    "Come me with," said Justin as he held her hand with his own small hands. When Justin brought her to the main hall, she found the others already there. "You all are up? Feeling better now?"

    "Absolutely," responded Xiang Wai but Xiang Weimin and Shui Xian didn''t say anything. "Little nephew, why don''t you finally tell us all what you brought for my Aunt?"

    "Okay," agreed Justin and went to pick up his backpack that he had carried on their camping trip. He slowly opened it and took out things like offering treasures, "Grandaunt, I picked these wild mulberries for you."

    Mu Chenyan looked at the ripe mulberries packed carefully in a box. She was pleasantly surprised to have this gift. Just the thought that her grandnephew didn''t forget about her on the trip was enough to make her happy.

    "I also found these mushrooms. Look, there are pine mushrooms, porcini, and rusus. We can stew them with farm chicken and it will be delicious."

    Mu Chenyan narrowed her eyes when she heard that and asked, "And how does my dear grandnephew know that stewing it with a farm chicken would be more delicious?"

    Justin paused and looked towards Hyson who pretended like he didn''t see or hear anything.

    Mu Chenyanughed at their so-obvious exchange and shook her head, "Fai, what is this?"

    Hyson scratched his head, "He asked how to eat these mushrooms and I just told him a way."

    "Oh..." was Mu Chenyan''s response but one could hear herughter. "Is there anything else, Justin?"

    "Yes!" replied Justin. "We also found daylilies. Uncle Fai said they are very good for health. They provide calcium and protein and lots of other things. We just have to first steam it and then dry it under the sun before using it. As for how to use it, I don''t know yet."

    Looking at the small portions he offered to her, Mu Chenyan was really touched. She rubbed his head and then looked at Hyson, "Since Justin is carrying the smaller portions. You must have the bigger portions with you. Right, Fai?"

    Hyson grinned, "I have it. Can we dry the mulberries? I also have raspberries. Can we make some raspberry sauce? Please!"

    Raelle looked at all these things and couldn''t help asking, "When did you guys even pick all this?"

    "While we were going up," replied Justin. "We found mushrooms on the way. Later, in the morning, Uncle Fai took me to find day lilies. There was a huge field and it looked beautiful. On the way back, we found the mulberry tree and raspberries too. There were wild apples too but Uncle Fai said they must be too sour and they were very small as well. So, we didn''t pick them."

    "You guys had plenty of fun,"mented Raelle. "And I didn''t even notice."

    "It''s because your attention is no longer on me, Ellie!"mented Hyson. "Or else, you would have found us taking all this."

    "Actually, none of us saw you guys having so much fun," said Xiang Wai.

    "You all are blind then," was the only exnation Hyson could give. He refused to believe that he was so easy to ignore. It''s true that he was always either way ahead of them with Justin or way behind them. But the fact that none of them even noticed them picking so many things was a real surprise to him.

    "You really found so many things," said Shui Xian.

    "I told you all, the mountain is full of surprises. You all didn''t believe me," said Hyson.

    "Yes!" Justin also agreed with Hyson. "There are so many things up there."

    "Did you enjoy picking so many things?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "I had a lot of fun," he replied. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "That''s good. Then you should go on more exploration trips. It''ll be even more fun."

    "Okay," agreed Justin without any hesitation. He didn''t think the world was so interesting before. Just this camping trip made him realize that he could see a whole different world outside of the books and it was a lot more fun too. So, he was very willing to step out of his room now and explore more. Well, as long as he had all these people who made him feel sofortable and safe with him. He had no fear of facing the world.

    "What about your ginseng?" asked Raelle. "Your luck gave up on you, Hyson?"

    Hyson didn''t speak but Justin answered for him, "We did find it!"

    Everyone looked at Justin who was jumping up and down, "It had red fruits, it looked like a radish but Uncle Fai said it''s a ginseng. But he wasn''t very happy to find it. When I asked if we were digging it, he said there was no need. The ginseng had some time before it became a hundred years old so we should let it grow."

    Raelle looked at Hyson who actually didn''t show off that he actually found ginseng. To be honest, he wasn''t reallyfortable with having such good luck in life. It made him feel so average. Why? Because he felt like everything he achieved in his life was because of his insane good luck and not because of his own efforts and abilities. "Not happy?" asked Raelle.

    "It''s alright," replied Hyson.

    "Were you the one who saw it first?" asked Raelle.

    Hyson suddenly had a shift in his mood and smiled, "No. It was Justin who found it and asked me what those red fruits were. I didn''t find it. Haha! It wasn''t me."

    "Wow! I have never seen someone who doesn''t like being lucky,"mented Xiang Wai.

    Hyson sighed and stared at her, "You don''t understand me."

    "I definitely can''t understand and I don''t want to either. I''m mad. You didn''t even offer me mulberries or raspberries. You didn''t take me with you to pick anything."

    "What are you talking about? We picked wild vegetables together!"

    "What''s fun in that? I wanted to see that ginseng! I have never seen one in the ground."

    Hyson scratched the tip of his nose, "What''s there to see?"

    "I just wanted to see it."

    "How about next time?" suggested Hyson.

    "What''s the guarantee we will find one the next time?" she asked.

    "I''ll find it for you," he said.

    Xiang Wai was finally satisfied and patted his head, "That''s more like it. As a little brother, you should coax your elder sister some more instead of finding trouble with her all the time."

    Hyson swatted her hand away, "Don''t touch my head!"

    "You did not even peep when Xian put a whole damn frog on your head!" She looked very dissatisfied, "Is it because he is Raelle''s husband?"

    "No," replied Hyson. "It seems you don''t know."

    "What?"

    "Actually, I have always admired Xian Ge. Even before he married Ellie. I didn''t meet him personally before but I heard a lot about him in college so I always admired him. It has little to do with Ellie. I just like him as a person. So, I usually don''t argue with him."

    "Hm. I didn''t know that."

    "Well, now you do."

    Hyson then smiled at Mu Chenyan, "Yanyan, how about that chicken stewed with mushrooms? We must let Justin know how delicious it really is, no?"

    Mu Chenyan looked at his greedy look and tsked at him, "Don''t use Justin''s name as a gun. As if I won''t make it if it''s you who wants to eat it."

    Hyson grinned in response, "I know you love me the most."

    "I do. But now that you have brought all this. Pack it up too. All these mushrooms won''t be used. So, wash the rest and dry them for me. Also, since you picked the day lilies, steam them and dry them too."

    "I don''t know how to," he replied innocently.

    "Well, then learn. I won''t be pampering you anymore. Learn to do something on your own. Take Raelle with you. Don''t let her touch anything but let her watch carefully how it''s all done. Weimin will help you."

    Hyson looked at Xiang Weimin who nodded, "I''ll help you. I know how to do it all. In fact, take the raspberries too. I''ll make my secret sauce for you all."

 Chapter 1338 Worthless

    Chapter 1338 Worthless

    Raelle looked at everyone rushing to do their own things and she was left sitting there all alone. It seemed she was the only free person around. And she couldn''t join any of them either.

    Before she could think about what to do, Shui Xian came back and asked, "Why don''t youe?"

    "To do what?"

    "To watch them work," he replied.

    "What''s the fun in that?" She looked at him and asked, "Why are you joining them?"

    "I''m gonna learn Weimin Ge''s secret sauce recipe topare with my own. Only in this way, will I''ll know whose recipe is better."

    Raelle gave him a look, "When did you be interested in this?"

    "I was always interested," he replied. "It''s only after I took the office that I stopped. Otherwise, one of my favorite hobbies has always been cooking. And I n on continuing too, just so I can make more delicious things for you."

    "There is no need for so much trouble," she said.

    "I don''t find it troublesome," he replied seriously.

    Raelle waved him off saying, "Go and join them. I really have no interest."

    "Then what are you gonna do here?"

    "I''ll think of something. Anyway, I have a lot of emails waiting for me to reply."

    Shui Xian shook his head at her, "Okay, then have fun with your work."

    "You too!"

    Raelle really stood up and went to her yard first to get her tablet. Then she sat down to read through all the unread emails and responded to all the mail. After approving a few contracts and sending a few documents back for revision, Raelle was done with work and again had nothing to do.

    "Elle, would you like to go to the library?" asked Mu Chenyan when she saw Raelle sitting there in a daze. "You might find some interesting books. They might not be about your topic of interest but they are very rich in content."

    "Where is the library?" asked Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan gave her the directions and thinking of something, she called someone to just show her the way. "Don''t just sit here and do something you like doing."

    Raelle also agreed with this. She wasn''t interested in fun but she was interested in books. It could never be changed. That''s just how she was and at this point, it was almost impossible to change this aspect of hers.

    Before leaving, Raelle stopped and turned to look at Mu Chenyan who was going back to the kitchen, and called her, "Yanyan!"

    "Hm? What is it, sweetie?" Mu Chenyan responded.

    "When is my dading back?" she asked which stunned Mu Chenyan.

    This question was so unexpected that Mu Chenyan didn''t know how to respond for a very long while. Raelle waited patiently for her answer and didn''t even rush her. After all, she could actually understand why Mu Chenyan was so lost just because of her question. First, she called Xiang Hulin, my dad and then she even asked about when he wasing back. That was enough to shock Mu Chenyan. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Mu Chenyan patted her face and asked, "Baby, did you ask about my Ge?"

    "Yeah. Do I have another dad in this world?" asked Raelle.

    "No. You only have one whom you don''t usually ask about or look for" replied Mu Chenyan.

    "Now, I''m asking. Is it that I can''t ask about him or is it difficult to answer?"

    "Neither," said Mu Chenyan. "I''m just a bit surprised. No other reason. As for when Ge ising back. He''ll definitely be back for dinner. Yue Yue will be having dinner outside with Kuijun but Ge will definitelye back with Zhao. Just in a while. Do you have something to do with him?"

    "I actually do," was Raelle''s answer.

    "Is it important?"

    "Not that important either."

    "What do you want with him?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "I''ll tell him," she answered.

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head in understanding and said, "Then I''ll let you know as soon as hees home. Okay?"

    "Sure," said Raelle and went to check out what the library in this old house looked like. And when she entered the library, it turned out exactly as she had it in mind. Well, no, it wasn''t covered in dust or cobwebs. It was very clean and bright. But it did give an aged feeling.

    Mostly because the books inside were really old. Raelle walked through the aisles looking at the books on the shelves. When she looked through the titles, she was surprised. She didn''t just find books rted to the history of the country but also found the detailed history of the Xiang family. Finding it quite interesting, she took the book and sat down to read through it.

    Reading it, she didn''t even realize when the time passed. So, she didn''t see when the sun set and the lights turned on outside. She was absorbed in reading. Even when someone came to inform her that Xiang Hulin was back, she only hummed in response and said that she knew. Other than that, she didn''t react.

    On the other hand, Mu Chenyan had already rushed to Xiang Hulin''s side once he came back, "Ge, you''re finally back."

    "Why? What happened? Why are you so excited? Did you miss me so much in such a short time?" asked Xiang Hulin. "I didn''t know my Chenchen would be missing me so much."

    "It''s nothing like that."

    "Oh, I was happy for nothing then," hemented.

    "Ge, listen to me. It''s important," said Mu Chenyan seriously.

    Seeing her serious expression even Xiang Hulin became serious, "What happened? Everything is okay?"

    "Only you would know that," she replied.

    "I''d know?" asked Xiang Hulin.

    "Yes, because you did something. Only you''d know what you did."

    "I did something?" Xiang Hulin pointed at himself.

    Xia Zhao looked at this pair of siblings and sighed mentally, "Yanzi, why don''t you just say it clearly? Don''t talk in riddles. You''re making Hulin Ge anxious for no reason. And you seem to have caused stress to yourself too. Let''s calm down and talk about it clearly. What is going on?"

    Mu Chenyan nodded, "Right, I seem to be reacting a bit too strongly. But I can''t help it. Ge, do you know that Elle is looking for you?"

    Xiang Hulin paused, "What?"

    "She asked me earlier when her dad ising back," told Mu Chenyan. "I was so shocked that I almost didn''t react for a while."

    "No way. Did she really ask about me?"

    "She did! Do you think I imagined that all?"

    "No, I''m also in disbelief right now," answered Xiang Hulin.

    "I think you both are overreacting," said Xia Zhao calmly.

    "You don''t understand," said Xiang Hulin and Mu Chenyan in sync with the same expression on their faces.

    "No, I do understand," responded Xia Zhao. "That''s why I said you both are overreacting. It''s not necessary that Hulin Ge has done something and that''s why Raelle is asking about him. She could have something important to do with him."

    "But that''s the thing. Even though she is my daughter, we practically have nothing to say to each other," said Xiang Hulin.

    "Ge, honestly speaking, there is a lot to say between you two. She is your daughter who has been estranged for too long. She never denied that you are not her father. She never disrespected you either. It''s just that she doesn''t know what to talk about with you. And simrly, you also get overwhelmed just by the idea of having a conversation with her. Think back, has it ever been difficult to talk to her when you guys sat down together?"

    Xiang Hulin nodded, "It has been difficult. She knows how to use words like a knife."

    "You''re someone you walked through the rain of bullets to get where you are. I did not think you''d be scared of knives now."

    Xiang Hulin was stunned and sighed, "Right. How can I be scared of this? But I''m under a bit pressure just thinking that Raelle is looking to talk with me. I don''t what happened. I''m trying to figure out if I have done something wrong recently."

    "What''s the point of thinking so much?" asked Xia Zhao. "Just wait for Raelle and you''d know what this is all about."

    "True. What''s the point of thinking so much?" He turned to Mu Chenyan, "Where is she?"

    "She went to check out the library, I asked someone to call her."

    "Okay."

    So, the three of them waited but Raelle didn''te. Everyone else came back from doing their own things but Raelle was missing.

    "Where is my wife?" asked Shui Xian to Mu Chenyan.

    "Library. I called her but I don''t know why she isn''t back yet."

    "She must have found something interesting," came Hyson''s answer. "God Forbid, I don''t wanna face Raelle Xiang who has found a book she likes."

    "Why?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Because that Raelle Xiang is super annoying and makes you feel so unimportant and worthless."

    "Huh?"

    "She really can do that," agreed Mu Chenyan. "She even forgets to eat and sleep when she finds a book that really has her attention. But fortunately, that doesn''t happen very often. She rarely finds something that can suck up all her attention. And unfortunately, it seems, today is one of those rare days."

 Chapter 1339 Ground Rules

    Chapter 1339 Ground Rules

    "Elle, your dad is here!" Mu Chenyan called out tentatively to get Raelle''s attention whose attention waspletely on the book in her hands. This was really not a situation she expected when she suggested Raelle to check out the library.

    She just wanted Raelle to do something she enjoyed while others were having fun with their own things. Who knew they''d get into this situation right now?

    "Okay," replied Raelle without lifting her head or moving her eyes. "Didn''t you have something important to talk to him about?" "He is here. We can talkter," said Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her temples and left dejectedly. When faced with curious eyes waiting for her outside, she shook her head, "She didn''t even lift her head to look at me."

    "I knew it!" said Hyson. "This is the most hateful version of Raelle Xiang."

    "Say less about my wife," said Shui Xian.

    "But I''m speaking the truth. Xian Ge, you have never faced this version of hers. Usually, she always looks into your eyes and then talks to you. Even if she has no expression on her face, she lets people know that she is listening attentively. It makes you feel good when you''re talking to her. But at this time, she might not even respond to you when you talk to her."

    Shui Xian patted his shoulder saying, "I''ll take this challenge. Go and wait. I''ll bring her out."

    "No way, you can''t."

    "I just said, go!"

    Feeling brave, Shui Xian opened the door and entered the library. He walked around and found Raelle. She really didn''t pay attention to anyone else. He purposely took a book from the bookshelf and dropped it but she seemed to have not heard. Then he took a vase and put it down heavily making a loud noise but Raelle was still unresponsive.

    Shui Xian had to believe in what Hyson said. Raelle was really different right now. Usually, she wouldn''t be so silent when she heard such loud noises around her. It was disturbing but right now, it seemed to have no effect. And that showed how her brain and attention werepletely on the book and whatever was happening in the surroundings had nothing to do with her.

    He finally went to sit in front of her and said, "Wife, what are you doing?"

    "Reading," was her answer and she didn''t continue after that.

    Shui Xian tapped on the tabletop to grab her attention, "Let''s have dinner."

    "Not hungry," she answered.

    "But I''m hungry," he told her. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Then you can go and eat."

    Shui Xian gaped at her in disbelief. This woman who was even willing to dy her mealtime just to wait for him to eat together, was actually telling him to go and eat? Okay, he was really unfamiliar with this Raelle but it didn''t faze him either. In fact, he became even more interested in messing with her right now.

    Shui Xian put his hand on the book to cover it but Raelle pushed it away immediately.

    With his chin propped on his hand, he looked at her face in silence for a while. There was nothing on his mind in particr. Except that, he felt she looked so beautiful right now. But then she always looked beautiful to him so there was no surprise there.

    He shook his head and reminded himself that he wasn''t here to admire her beauty but to take her out to eat. Because there was no doubt that if he really left her here, she might end up sitting here all night without eating and drinking. And he couldn''t let that happen.

    Standing up, he took a couple of steps to stand beside her. Leaning down, he captured her red lips with his own and when her lips parted in surprise, he took the chance to deepen the kiss. Originally, Raelle lifted her hand to push him away but he held her wrists together with one hand behind her back. He used the other hand to grab the back of her neck. His slender fingers rubbed the skin on her nape making Raelle feel like ants crawling on her skin. She had long forgotten her intention to push him away and had already started meeting the attack of his moist tongue with equal fervor. Seeing her reciprocation, Shui Xian''s eyes twinkled with a sly smile and he let go of her hands. With her hands free, Raelle hugged his neck, pulling him closer as her fingers ran through his hair.

    Shui Xian lifted her body from the chair and put her on the table instead. He slowly pushed down making her upper bodyy down on the wooden table. Leaving her lips, he kissed her jaw and moved down to her neck. His other hand got under her shirt and squeezed the softness on her chest through her bra. Seeing her arching her body, he was very satisfied with himself. His hand under her shirt, started moving down. Just when he touched the button of her jeans, she held her hand and said, "No!"

    Shui Xian''s faced buried in her neck slowly lifted and he looked into her eyes, "No?"

    Raelle took a deep breath to hold her sanity as she said, "Not here."

    Shui Xian looked around at the books and actually understood why she stopped him. This was a library. It was considered a very sacred ce to his wife who had been a bookworm all her life. He would obviously not go against her wishes. So, he kissed the corner of her eyes and the corner of her lips before saying, "Okay."

    Saying that, he took his hands off of her and moved back.

    He raised his hand saying, "I wouldn''t have started this here if you hadn''t forced me to do so."

    Raelle took deep breaths to calm her breathing as she sat up and got down from the table. She fixed her hair and asked, "I forced you?"

    Shui Xian pinched her chin and made her look at him, "You didn''t look at me when I called you. I did not like that feeling of being ignored."

    "I wasn''t ignoring you," she said in her defense.

    "But I certainly felt like that," he responded. His face got close to hers as he asked, "Tell me, is that book more handsome than me or more interesting than me?"

    "How can this bepared?" she asked, not understanding where his childish temper wasing from.

    "Forget it. I don''t care if it''s more interesting than me. But it can''t be more important than your own health," he said seriously shedding away his slyness. "You need to eat. We had an early lunch today and it''s alreadyte. We should have dinner right now. Even if you aren''t hungry, you have to have a bite. Even if you don''t want to eat with me, you have to sit through this dinner with me."

    "What''s with this stubbornness?" she asked, closing the book she was reading. She was d to find that it didn''t get damaged when they were fooling around just now. "I am just this stubborn when ites to you," he replied. "Let''s go with me now." Seeing her taking the book she was reading, Shui Xian said, "This book won''t run away. It''s not like I stop you from reading. I know this is the only hobby you have and something you really enjoy. I''d nevere between you and your hobby. But you need to have a bnce. I said that before too. This kind of thing should not happen again where you forget your own self just because you''re so absorbed in reading something. Are we clear?"

    "Are you bossing me around right now?" asked Raelle.

    "I''m setting the ground rules here," he said. "I believe I can do that as your life partner. You are my other half. I might not have full control over your life but half of you is still mine. I get to set some rules, right?"

    "I don''t know what has gotten into you but I''d listen to you. Is that okay? Are you happy now?"

    "I''ll be happy if you don''t ignore me again," he responded as he took her hand and pulled her out. "Don''t do that again."

    "It doesn''t happen that often," said Raelle. "I might have lost sense of my surroundings just now. But it happens rarely. I just couldn''t stop reading the book."

    "I don''t mind that. In fact, I don''t mind you ignoring me either. But as I said, stop taking your health so lightly. You are someone who always says that eating on time is very important. You gave me a long lecture when you learned that I skip my meals because of work. Remember?"

    "I remember.

    "Then how could you be someone who do the same?" he asked. "Nothing is more important than a meal. Eating healthy and on time is a secret to live a long life. And I want you to live a long life with me. What''s the point of me living a long life alone if you are not gonna be there with me?"

 Chapter 1340 Not This Talent

    Chapter 1340 Not This Talent

    Hyson''s jaw dropped and almost hit the floor when he saw Shui Xianing back with Raelle. He rubbed his brows with his finger as he looked at the two of theming together.

    "Is it painful?" asked Xiang Wai to her in a small voice.

    "What?"

    "The p!" she asked.

    Hyson touched his cheek and felt like he was really pped invisibly. He was just saying that it was difficult to bring Raelle to have dinner and here she wasing so easily with Shui Xian. Wasn''t it like pping his face? He didn''t know about pain, but the p was resounding for sure.

    "You guys are here," he said the obvious. "That was fast."

    Shui Xian gave him a look, "Didn''t I say? It isn''t difficult for me."

    "I don''t know what to say right now," said Hyson. "All I can say is, you have my respect, Xian Ge!" But not being able to get over his curiosity, he still came to his side and asked in a whisper, "But how did you manage to do this? You see, I even took a drum to y by her side and the only response I got was almost getting hit by a coffee mug."

    Shui Xian frowned, "I don''t believe that. My wife doesn''t use violence."

    "She does when she is in her zone and you annoy her. I only figured it out when that coffee mug passed right past my head. Before that, I also thought she was against violence."

    Shui Xian shrugged, "Then I can only say, you were the one to me in that situation."

    "I''ll take that because I indeed went too far back then. But right now, the question is how did you do this?" Hyson was still stuck on this point and couldn''t get past it at all.

    "I did it the ssic way which I used to make her fall in love with me," answered Shui Xian.

    "And what''s that ssic way that you used?"

    "My handsome face," said Shui Xian.

    Hyson gave him a disgusted look, "Ge, I don''t believe that."

    Shui Xian sighed, "You think my handsome face isn''t enough?"

    "I don''t think it''s enough," answered Hyson.

    "Well, believe it or not. I did use this face to seduce her before and I used the same seduction today. It seems to work like a charm."

    Hyson repeated, "Seduction?"

    "Mhmmm..."

    Hyson rubbed his chin thoughtfully, "So, how does it work?"

    Seeing how he looked so interested, Shui Xian patted his shoulder, "You''re still young to learn that."

    "All of you tell me to look for a partner. I''m old enough for that but not for this?" n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "The art of seduction is not for everyone. You stick to your cute charms."

    "I feel like you just insulted me by saying that," was Hyson''s response.

    "That wasn''t my intention at all," said Shui Xian. "You know I really like you."

    Hyson gave a dryugh in reply and walked away from him. He''d just go and learn this art of seduction from someone else. It wasn''t like there was only one person who had this skill. But looking at all the faces in this room, his face fell. He did not think there was anyone here who''d have this skill apart from Shui Xian.

    After all, the rest of the people even had troubles expressing their feelings around here. Just take Mu Chenyan as an example. She took half a lifetime to figure out her true feelings for Xia Zhao. Let''s not even talk about the rest of them.

    "Elle,e and sit here for a while. The dinner will be here in a moment," said Mu Chenyan.

    Raelle nodded in agreement and sat down with the rest of them. "Where is Opa?"

    "He went out to see some old friends," replied Xiang Hulin. "He has friends here?" asked Raelle.

    Xiang Hulin was silent for a moment before answering, "He went to the martyrs'' cemetery to pay his respects to his friends who are no longer around."

    "Oh," was Raelle''s response. "When is heing back? Won''t he have dinner with us? It''s quitete, no?"

    "He might have met someone on the way. Don''t worry. Uncle Jiangou is with him. He''ll be fine," told Mu Chenyan. "Anyway, this is his hometown. Let''s not restrict his movements too much."

    "Sure."

    "Didn''t you have something to talk to Ge about?" asked Mu Chenyan tentatively. "He''s here now."

    Raelle looked at Xiang Hulin and said, "I know he is here. I can see that."

    "What is it about?" asked Xiang Hulin trying too seem kind to her but it wasn''t working with his face. "Chenchen said you were looking for me which was a surprise to me."

    "I can''t look for you?" asked Raelle.

    "You can. You definitely can. Come to me anytime you want to. But what is this about?"

    "Is it okay to talk here?"

    "Why? Is it a secret?"

    "I don''t know. You''d know better."

    "Me?" Xiang Hulin asked in confusion. "You''ll have to borate for me to understand."

    "Weimin Ge shared the mystery of his life," told Raelle.

    "And what is this mystery?" asked Xiang Hulin with a attentive look.

    "The mystery is who sent him flowers from the age of six to sixteen. He always had a bunch of purple magnolia in his desk every Friday morning. Rain or shine. Regardless of whether, the magnolia was in blooming season or not."

    Xiang Hulin''s eyes lowered when he heard that.

    "Now, the question is, who left those flowers without a name."

    "If it''s a mystery, how would I know," said Xiang Hulin.

    "You know," said Raelle.

    "Is that a question?"

    "It''s a statement," she replied.

    Xiang Hulin gave his daughter an amused look, "And how are you certain that I know."

    "Because when Weimin Ge told you about it, you told him to just let it be a secret and not dwell into it when it''spletely harmless to him."

    "Did I say something wrong?" asked Xiang Hulin. He was trying to wonder where he gave himself away with just those words.

    "You, amander of an army region, actually asked your son to not ask questions when things are out of ordinary? How does that make sense? Even if it''s just for the safety of your son, you''d do something to figure out who was behind it all. But you didn''t even question it. Why? Because you knew who was behind it all along."

    Xiang Hulin rubbed his temple listening to her exnation while Xia Zhao gave her a round of a apuse. "Ge, your daughter has caught you so easily."

    "His reaction was full of loopholes but Weimin Ge didn''t pay attention to it at that time andter, he didn''t think deeply about it. Maybe that''s why he didn''t find anything weird. But I am not like that. I have to solve the mystery once it''s in front of me."

    "Dad!" Xiang Weimin called out to his father with aplicated look in his eyes. "Do you really know?"

    Xiang Hulin nodded his head.

    Xiang Weimin didn''t know how to feel right now but he still asked, "Who was it?"

    "Your grandmother," answered Xiang Hulin.

    "What? Why?" He asked.

    "I don''t know the answer to that. Because the agreement was between you and her. I don''t know why she started sending you those flowers but she did. When I asked, she said it''s a secret between her and her grandson and I should stay out of it."

    Xiang Weimin could not remember what secret he had with his grandmother. "Wait! But Grandma diedter on," said Xiang Wai. "Then howe Ge still got those flowers after she was no longer around?"

    "That you''ll have to ask from the person who got your grandma''s inheritance," replied Xiang Hulin. "Who is it?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Yanyan!" answered Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan cursed her breath before saying, "Baby, can''t you let it be a secret?"

    "I really can''t," said Raelle. "Sorry!"

    Mu Chenyan couldn''t possibly scold her at all. So, she was really helpless before her once again as she had been all her life. "Aunt?" Xiang Weimin looked at her inquisitively.

    "Yes, it was me," she epted it. "After Godmother was gone, I took over this task. I asked someone to ce those flowers for you. And if I was around, I''d put them there myself."

    "But why?" asked Xiang Weimin. "I don''t understand."

    "You really don''t remember?" asked Mu Chenyan. "I really don''t," he replied.

    Mu Chenyan sighed, "Well, then sorry to disappoint you but I also don''t know the answer to that question. I got the same answer from Godmother as Ge did. It''s a secret between you and her. And only you can tell why she was so persistent with this."

    This made Xiang Weimin fall into deep thought because he couldn''t jog up his memory from so long ago. Even with his good memory, he couldn''t pull out this small detail like Raelle could do. He didn''t seem to have this talent.

 Chapter 1341 Symphony

    Chapter 1341 Symphony

    "Since you didn''t even know the real intention behind it all, why did you continue to send his flowers after Grandma died?" asked Raelle to Mu Chenyan.

    Mu Chenyan grinned at her in response, "Who cares about the intention? I just knew that my godmother wanted it so I continued her legacy without asking any questions. Besides, I thought Weimin would feel empty if the flowers stoppeding all of a sudden. I couldn''t let that happen."

    "I think you confused him more by continuing this legacy," was Raelle''s point of view.

    Mu Chenyan looked at Xiang Weimin who also nodded in response.

    "And why didn''t you continue it when he went to military academy?" asked Raelle. "It''s not like you couldn''t reach there."

    "I could," replied Mu Chenyan. "But there was no fixed desk to put the flowers in anymore. So, I chose to just end it right there."

    "Only Aunt would do all sorts of things,"mented Xiang Wai. "I''m shocked right now. Here I thought there was really a fairy behind it all."

    Mu Chenyan looked at her niece, "Don''t I look like a fairy?"

    Xiang Waiughed and nodded, "Sure. You sure are one."

    "Okay, let''s have dinner. There is no point in discussing this anymore," said Xiang Hulin.

    "Raelle, you should also stop trying to dig into the secrets. Just let the mystery stay," said Xiang Wai to Raelle.

    "Why?"

    "Why? I think I should ask you that. Why are you obsessed with answers?"

    "Since there are questions, there should be answers, no?"

    "No! Some questions don''t need answers!" Raelle gave her a look, "Don''t worry! I''ll for answers for you too. I''ll also prove that your supernatural experience was just in your head or have a very reasonable exnation that doesn''t involve ghosts." n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Mu Chenyan looked at Xiang Wai, "You met a ghost?"

    "I don''t wanna talk about it," said Xiang Wai to her and turned to Raelle. "And you! I didn''t share it with you to look for answers. I just wanted to share it with someone after so long."

    "But I''m not looking for answers for you," replied Raelle. "It''s me. I need answers. It might be your secret but since you shared it with us, I at least can go and find answers for my curiosity, right?"

    "Okay, but don''t talk to me about that," said Xiang Wai. "You can look for whoever you want to."

    "Deal!"

    "Aunt, little aunt, why are you both arguing?" asked Justin. "Aunt, are you mad at little aunt?"

    Xiang Wai''s expression softened as she said, "No. I just think your little aunt is super annoying."

    "I agree!" came Hyson''s loud voice.

    "No one asked for your opinion," said Raelle.

    "I still wanted to share my opinion. What are you gonna do about that?"

    "All of you should talk less and focus on the meal," said Mu Chenyan. "Why is there so much nonsense at the dinner table? Just because Elder Xiang isn''t doesn''t mean you all can just do whatever you want now."

    Because of Mu Chenyan''s words, the dinner was a lot more silent than usual. No one spoke unnecessarily but ate in silence like Raelle. It was obviously a little ufortable for some of them to eat silently but they still had to do it right now.

    After dinner, they all dispersed sensibly. "Don''t forget, we are leaving tomorrow," came Mu Chenyan''s voice from behind. "Pack your bags at night. We''ll be leaving after breakfast tomorrow!"

    They all agreed and went their own ways. "Ellie!"

    "What?"

    "I just read that kids who like dinosaurs have unusual intelligence," told Hyson.

    "So?"

    "Aren''t you gonna praise me for reading something useful?"

    "Don''t feel like it," replied Raelle. "Stop wasting time and go to bed."

    "Who goes to bed right after eating?" asked Hyson. "Don''t you agree, Xian Ge?"

    Shui Xian moved his eyes from Raelle''s face and turned to Hyson as he said, "No, I think it''s necessary to go to bed tonight on time so that we can wake up refreshed in the morning for the flight back home."

    Hyson narrowed his eyes at him, "You all just love going against me."

    "I think you''re talking about your yourself," said Raelle.

    Hyson shook his head at her and walked faster to leave them behind. Raising his hand above his head, he waved saying, "Good night!"

    "What''s up with him?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian held her wrist and dragged her back to their yard saying, "We''ll ask him about thatter. For now..." Pulling her inside, he closed the door and put her against the door as he went on, "Let''s continue where we left off earlier." With that, his lips came to capture hers again with bubbling excitement.

    Raelle pushed him a little and said against his lips, "I haven''t taken a bath yet." "It doesn''t matter!"

    "Sweaty!" "I still don''t give a damn!"

    "You''re too impatient," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian hugged her body close and his lower region rubbed against her body as he asked in a suppressed voice, "Can you tell how impatient I really am right now?"

    Raelle felt his hardness pressing against her clearly and had to say that he really couldn''t hold it back. So, throwing away all the thoughts, she wrapped her arms around his neck and jumped on his body like a ko making himugh but he still instinctively ced his hands on her butt to support her body hanging on him.

    "Let''s go!" she said as she kissed his sensitive ear making him shudder a little and making his heart itchy. And it was an itch that he couldn''t seem to scratch with his hands either. Only she could solve this itch.

    Soon, the sounds of their tongues and teeth shing against each other echoed in the silence of the night. The scene instantly spiraled out of hands with their clothes getting lesser and lesser and their bodies getting closer and closer to create a symphony of their own to add sound to this silent night.

 Chapter 1342 Bitter

    Chapter 1342 Bitter

    The next morning, everyone had gotten up with their bags packed and ready to leave. But only two people were missing. "Where is Elle and Xian?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Why aren''t they here yet? Don''t tell me they overslept."

    "No, they are packing their bags," said Hyson.

    "What? Didn''t they pack their bagsst night?"

    "Maybe they had more important things to dost night," chuckled Xiang Wai in a suspicious way.

    "And what could that be?" asked Hyson seriously.

    "Oh, you know."

    "What? I don''t know."

    Xiang Wai gave him a hateful look and said, "You let it be. You''re still young."

    Hyson was appalled by thisment. He had been hearing this too muchtely even though he was clearly the same age as Raelle. Maybe he had really gone too far setting his image as the baby. Now, it was difficult for everyone to see him as an adult but this was not good. He had to do something to change this.

    Mu Chenyan looked at the two of them and was speechless.

    Hyson looked at his mother who came with a big smile on her face and walked up to her asking, "Mum, where were youst night?"

    ''I went to the night market.''

    "Alone?"

    ''You know the answer already.''

    Hyson nodded his head in agreement, "I do know the answer and that''s why I wondering, have you forgotten that you have a son? Again?"

    Yue Yue looked at his pitiful eyes. ''Don''t y this pitiful card with me. It works better on Chenyan. I know you very well.''

    Hyson rubbed his nose and shrugged, "You can''t me me. I can''t even mention my dissatisfaction now. It''s true that you give me way less time than your newly minted ''boyfriend''."

    ''That''s your father. I told you, even if you don''t take him as one. You have to respect him. I did not teach you to be disrespectful.''

    "I am already doing my best."

    ''Your best is certainly not the best.'' N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Should I say he is still more important than me?"

    Yue Yue gave him a look. Hyson smiled softly and shook his head, "Sorry! I won''t say it again. I didn''t evene to talk about this. I wanted to ask, what did you eat at the night market? Was it fun? Did you enjoy it?"

    Yue Yue nodded excitedly and shared with him how much fun she hadst night like a young girl. Hyson looked at her brightened face and felt reallyplicated in his heart. This feeling really wasn''t nice. The way someone else was able to make his mother smile like he never could even though he shaped all his life ording to her wishes and yet... He stopped his thoughts right there and didn''t dare continue down this line. It already didn''t feel good so he didn''t want to think more about it.

    "How are you, Fai?" asked Zhai Kuijun to Hyson.

    Hyson just looked at him and said, "I''m good. As always."

    "That''s good," said Zhai Kuijun. "You were sleeping yesterday or else we wanted to take you out with us."

    "First, that wasn''t your intention. Second, I''m no longer a kid who needs to apany his parents out for fun."

    Zhai Kuijun nodded, "Right. You are way past that age where you''d need your father to take you out for fun."

    "I sure am," responded Hyson and walked away from there. He did not feel like talking to his parents anymore. "What did you say to your mother?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "What can I possibly say to her?" asked Hyson in return.

    "You definitely said something that her expression and her whole mood suddenly changed," said Mu Chenyan. "Don''t do that to her."

    "I try not to be bitter with her but it just happens without me realizing it. I seem to can''t control myself sometimes," said Hyson. "But my intention has never been to hurt her or anyone for that matter. You''d know that. I don''t like hurting people."

    "No, but you do end up doing it just like your best friend."

    Hyson shrugged, "Can you me me?"

    "I really can''t. Even if you do it intentionally, I can''t say anything to you because you''re my precious godson. But Yue is also my sister. I really can''t see her sad either."

    "She is very happy these days. Where is the sadness?" asked Hyson. "She can hardly even remember her son these days. You know, she used to call me every day. But now... things have changed. Times surely change."

    "You sound like you''re abandoned."

    "There is a feeling of unbnce," told Hyson. "It''s not just with her either. It''s the same with you and Ellie too. But it doesn''t mean I''m angry or unsatisfied. It''s just as I said. I''m feeling a bit unbnced because I haven''t been treated like this for a long time."

    "You''re still very important to us."

    "But I''m no longer the priority. Anyone would feelplicated when they fall from a pedestal."

    "Then you should also find someone who puts you on the top of their heart," suggested Mu Chenyan.

    "I''ll pass for now," he replied.

    Mu Chenyan shook her head at him and saw Raelleing with Shui Xian, "As they say, the longer you live, the more things you''d see in life that seemed impossible once." She looked at their rosyplexion and added, "Who would have thought I''d once see my Ellie beingte."

    "I''m notte," replied Raelle as she looked at her watch. "I''m right on time."

    "It''s prettyte considering your track record," said Mu Chenyan. "But I''m d you are here. Have your bags been packed, everyone?"

    "Yes!"

    "Okay, let''s eat something light and get going."

    All of them sat down to eat some light breakfast which consisted of soybean milk, steamed buns, and porridge. No one was in the mood to eat too much at this time. Especially since they had to start their journey back home right now. So, they just make do before leaving.

 Chapter 1343 Tie The Knot

    Chapter 1343 Tie The Knot

    "How about youe to my ce tonight?" suggested Xia Zhao to Mu Chenyan when they came out of the airport. Mu Chenyan looked at him and said, "What''s the point when you''re not even gonna cross the line?"

    Xia Zhao touched his nose, "There is no need to talk about this. I''m just trying to..."

    "Respect me," Mu Chenyan cut him off. "h h h. I''ve heard that already. Keep respecting me."

    Xia Zhao looked at her reaction, he put his hand around her waist and pulled her closer which took Mu Chenyan by surprise considering they weren''t alone. They were still in the crowd and it wasn''t like Xia Zhao to show his intimacy just anywhere.

    He touched the side of her face saying, "You have already met my family and I have met yours. We are considered engaged already. So, we are an official couple who has the blessings of everyone. The only thing left is a marriage certificate."

    Mu Chenyan narrowed her eyes at him, thinking of something to herself for a minute, she teased, "It''s still afternoon. There are two hours before the Civil Affairs Bureau closes for the day. Do you dare go and register the marriage with me right now?"

    "I dare," he answered. "I''d be more than happy to do so."

    "Are you sure?" she asked again. She was originally just messing with him but seeing him taking it so seriously, she became serious too. Anyway, it''s not like she hadn''t done anything impulsive in life. This didn''t seem all that bad either. In fact, she seemed to be looking forward to it more than she expected.

    "I can''t be sure than this," he said.

    Mu Chenyan nodded to herself and called out, "Elder Xiang!"

    "What is it?" "Can you send someone with my household booklet to the Civil Affairs Bureau?"

    Grandfather Xiang paused when he heard this and then he smiled asking, "Are you registering your marriage?"

    "Yes!"

    "I''ll send someone right away. You get there and your household booklet will be there," he told her. "What are you still waiting for? Go and get married already!" Mu Chenyan gave him a look, "Why are you so eager?"

    "It''s finally happening. Why shouldn''t I be eager?" said Grandfather Xiang. "Just go already! Don''t dawdle!"

    "Aunt, are you serious right now?" asked Xiang Wai in shock. "You''re getting married. Just like this?"

    Mu Chenyan shrugged, "Your sister also got married like this. Just on a random day after work."

    Xiang Wai looked towards Raelle who nodded her head, "It wasn''t exactly random. We decided the day randomly." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "It didn''t even feel like we were getting married," said Shui Xian. "At least, until I held the red marriage certificate in my hands, I didn''t have any feelings."

    "This proves that some random decisions can also be a lifetime," said Mu Chenyan. "Who takes the decision of a lifetime like this?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "We had coffee together," told Shui Xian. "Before that, I had no ns of getting married. But B¨¤ told me about this girl that I have to marry even if I don''t want to do so. So, our n of marriage was really made on that one coffee date."

    "Even blind dates don''t work like this," said Xiang Wai.

    "It used to work like that in the past century," said Shui Xian.

    "Exactly! Thest century! It happened in the past. Who does it in the present?"

    "We do," answered Raelle. "Have any problem with that?"

    "Okay, kiddos!" Mu Chenyan pped her hands to get their attention. "I''ll see you all after changing my rtionship status."

    "Go for it, Yanyan!" said Hyson. Then he turned to Xiang Wai, "See, Major? This is how to live! Once you have someone in your heart, get that person. Don''t think so much. ns fail. Surprise attacks are the best. Yanyan not only proposed before you but is also tying the knot before you."

    Xiang Wai didn''t even have it in her to argue with him right now because she was truly hit hard. She had been nning her proposal for so long and had yet to do anything but her aunt was going on a rocket speed and no one even found it weird. What the hell! Why was she so slow?

    Xiang Weimin patted her shoulder tofort her, "It''s okay. Everyone lives in their own way. You don''t have to feel so down. Even if you''re walking the speed of a turtle, you''ll still get to your destination eventually."

    "Ge, those words are nice but trust me, I don''t feelforted at all right now," replied Xiang Wai. "Sigh! I can truly say that Aunt and Raelle are more simr than me and Aunt."

    "Why do you say that?" he asked.

    "They both chose a random moment to propose and they both chose a random day to get married too. I don''t which one influenced the other one but it''s true that they both have simr ideas sometimes. And here I am... I still haven''t gotten a yes."

    "You''re not thinking of going to see Zhai Yanjun right now, right?"

    Xiang Wai looked at her brother, "I didn''t think about this before but it doesn''t sound very bad either."

    Xiang Weimin shook his head at her and pulled her with him, "Let''s go home. No need to think so much nonsense right now."

    "No, Ge, listen to me!"

    "I''ll listen to you when we get home," replied Xiang Weimin and dragged her with him to the car.

    On the other hand, Xia Zhao really drove Mu Chenyan straight to the Civil Affairs Bureau. Mu Chenyan looked at the building in front of her and felt a subtle feeling in her heart. She never thought one day she''d be standing in front of this building to get married to someone. And definitely think that this someone would be Xia Zhao of all people.

    "Yanzi, you aren''t getting cold feet, right?" asked Xia Zhao.

    "I''m not. What about you?"

    Xia Zhao held her hand saying, "This had been a dream of mine. I dreamed of standing here with you so many times that even at this moment, I feel like I am dreaming."

    "Should I bite you to let you know that it isn''t a dream?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Xia Zhao put his other arm in front of her, "Go ahead. Only you were allowed to bite before and it''d be the same in the future."

    Mu Chenyan tsked at him, "Am I a dog? Why would I bite?"

    Xia Zhao touched her head lovingly and she swatted his hand away.

    "Now, you''re even rubbing my head like a dog."

    "I am not. Don''t look for a fight. When is your household registering?"

    "What about yours?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Don''t you need it?"

    Xia Zhao pulled it out of his pocket, "I have it with me."

    Mu Chenyan looked at his household register in his hand and asked, "Why do you have this with you? Wait! Shouldn''t it be with your parents?"

    "Why would it be with them? I''m not on the same household register with them. I got separated after I became an adult. This way, my mother can really not control my marriage affairs or any other of my affairs."

    "Smart!"

    "I''ve always been smart," said Xia Zhao.

    "Miss Mu!"

    Mu Chenyan turned around and looked at the man who brought her household register from home. She took it and took Xia Zhao inside the Civil Affairs Bureau. They had to line up and seeing that it''d gette, she wanted to use her connections to get things done faster. But she didn''t have to do anything, once someone recognized Xia Zhao from the office and took them in immediately.

    And in this way, things got done pretty fast. Holding the newly minted marriage certificate in her hands, she felt fresh and strange. Well, she wasn''t alone on her household register anymore. Just looking at their names right beside each other made her smile to herself.

    Seeing how happy she looked, Xia Zhao was in a very good mood right now.

    "Wife!"

    "Huh?" Mu Chenyan looked at him nkly.

    "What? You should get used to this title now."

    "But I like it better when you call me Yanzi," she told him.

    Xia Zhao hugged her in his arms tightly, "You''d always be my Yanzi. I am so happy right now. This is even more unexpected than when you proposed the other day. I didn''t think we''d reach this point so early. Thank you!"

    Mu Chenyan rubbed her face against his chest with a big smile on her lips. She hugged him back and said, "I should say thank you to you. Thank you for persisting to this point despite my stubbornness. Thank you for waiting for so long. Thank you for loving me like I never thought was possible. Thank you for being here for me. Thank you for everything!"

 Chapter 1344 Dont Come Back

    Chapter 1344 Don''t Come Back

    "Why are you both standing at the side of the road like two fools?" Mu Chenyan looked up and saw Raelle leaning against her car looking at the two of them. She waved at them with her picture-perfect fake smile ying on her lips.

    "What are you doing here?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Didn''t you go home?"

    "I have to collect some documents from the office. But on the way, I stopped here to see you guys and send my blessing to the newlyweds. Did you get the marriage certificate?" asked Raelle.

    Mu Chenyan waved the red marriage certificate in her hand.

    Raelle walked over to them and said, "Congrattions to the both of you! You''re officially married. Now, Yanyan has the official right to bully her husband and Uncle Zhao can finally tie Yanyan to his side. I guess it''s a win-win for both of you, eh? You must be thrilled."

    "Do you know how to talk?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "You didn''t teach me," replied Raelle. Seeing Mu Chenyan''s expression, she stopped right there. "Okay, I just wanted to be the first one to see the married Mu Chenyan. And I also wanted to see what the supposed glow of a new bride looks like. Now, I''m done with it. So, I''ll take my leave now."

    "You really came all the way here for this?" asked Mu Chenyan in surprise.

    Raelle looked back at her and thought about it for a moment before saying, "Yeah. But I can also be of some use to you right now."

    "What?"

    "I can click the first photo of you guys as a married couple," replied Raelle. "I know that''s what I did when I got my marriage certificate. But of course, it wasn''t to keep a memory of that time but it was rather a task you assigned to me so that you''d believe that I really got married."

    Xia Zhao took his phone and gave it to Raelle, "Then I''d trouble you."

    Raelle took the phone from his hand saying, "I can take this much trouble for my Yanyan''s sake. I don''t mind." Saying that she adjusted the camera angle and checked the light before looking at the two of them. "Just now, you''re so sticky. Why are you standing so far right now? Did you have a fight? Did you stand that far for your marriage certificate picture?"

    Raelle seriously took their couple photos and passed the phone back.

    "I seem to have started doing useless things too," she muttered to herself. She was seriously going to the office because she had an important document to collect. It could be delivered at home but she just wanted to take this chance to go to the office even if it was close to closing time. But who knows what came to her mind to actually stop in front of the Civil Affairs Bureau. Obviously, she didn''t regret stopping here after seeing the happiness bursting around Mu Chenyan''s whole self. "I''m gonna go now," said Raelle. "I''ll buy you guys a wedding giftter."

    "There is no need for that," said Xia Zhao.

    "Why is there no need?" asked Raelle. "There is a need. It''s gonna be a little difficult for me to decide what to buy though. So, how about you both give me a hint? Help me out a little. After all, I''m not that good at these formalities."

    "That''s why he said, there is no need," said Mu Chenyan.

    "I''ll just ask Opa," said Raelle. "You both are not being very helpful right now. I''m going. Enjoy your first evening being married. You have my blessings. Bye!"

    Seeing her getting into the car and driving away, Xia Zhao said, "She came here for you."

    Mu Chenyan hummed in response. Of course, she knew Raelle came here for her. This girl really did whatever came to her mind. Sending blessings? What the hell! When did Raelle Xiang start sending blessings to others? It was such a surprise but it made her heart warm too.

    Just these random acts of hers were the reason that made Mu Chenyan believe that she didn''t fail in raising a proud daughter. These things gave Raelle a human touch which was getting better and better now than ever before.

    "How about we go home now?" suggested Xia Zhao. "Now, you can definitely stay at my house. Because that''s also your home now. So, shall we go to our home?"

    "Wait!" Mu Chenyan rubbed her brows. "Do you mean now I have to live with you at your ce?"

    Xia Zhao touched his chin, "It''s our ce now."

    "No! You mean I''m supposed to go with you?"

    "Yeah. You did not think about this before asking me to get the marriage certificate, did you?"

    Mu Chenyan shook her head, "I didn''t. I didn''t think of anything. All I had in mind was that, I wanted to test you and tease you a little. You got serious and then I just went with the flow and now we are here."

    Xia Zhao was not even surprised by her words. Not even one bit. He could tell from the beginning what she had in mind and he purposely didn''t remind her that after marriage they had to live together. Well, he also had his own selfishness involved in hiding this from her for a while. And his purpose was achieved. Who knew his marriage would be so sh forward kind?

    "I can''t go back to Xiang Manor," she muttered to herself.

    "You know, it''s not that serious," said Xia Zhao. "Why can''t you go back? It''s your home. Your family. Who would stop you from going back there?"

    "Right? No one can stop me. I''m still part of the family, right?"

    Before Xia Zhao could answer, Mu Chenyan''s phone rang. She rummaged it out of her pocket and answered the call, "Elder Xiang, what''s wrong?"

    "Congrattions on getting married, my dear daughter!" came Grandfather Xiang''s voice from the other side. "Raelle told me that you have received the marriage certificate. I can''t tell you how happy I am right now. But that doesn''t mean, I will allow you to get away with just registering your marriage legally. I still have to walk my daughter down the aisle. Or I''d keep feeling like something is missing."

    "What are you talking about? How about we don''t walk down the aisle, eh? That way, I can still be your daughter and not be the married daughter."

    "Are you scared, sweetie? What for? You''d always be my daughter. Married or not. Did you change your feelings for Raelle once she got married?"

    "No," she replied. "She is still me Elle. Nothing changed except that now, we don''t live together."

    "Exactly! Nothing is changing here too. In your case, this house is yours. This family will always be yours. What are you worried about? Stop scaring yourself so much."

    "I think I really am scaring myself," said Mu Chenyan. "Anyway, I''m not going anywhere, leaving you. And we have to live together than Zhao cane to live with us."

    "Tsk. You..." Grandfather Xiang didn''t know what to say to her but he wasn''t particrly surprised by her reaction too. He knew what she was like. How could it be possible for her to ept this situation so soon? She just impulsively chose to get married. That was already a huge surprise for everyone. "Fine! Stop talking so much. Go with Zhao for now! Don''t daree back tonight!" With that, he hung up.

    Mu Chenyan was left looking at her phone. She scratched her head, "He told me to note back tonight." She looked at Xia Zhao and said, "I''m telling you, you have to follow me!"

    Xia Zhao gave her a smile and nodded, "I''ll follow you anywhere. You don''t wanna live at my ce, we''ll go to yours. Is that alright?"

    "Sounds better," she replied.

    "Then shall we go back home now?" asked Xia Zhao. "I have something to give you. Something very important and that''s at home. Can we go?"

    "Yeah, sure," she agreed and got into the car with him. She fastened the seatbelt and leaned back. She suddenly had so many things rushing into her mind but she could only shake her head to empty it. Because she didn''t want to think so much anymore. What''s the point? She already got herself into this marriage!

    "Yanzi!"

    "Hm?"

    "Nothing really changed except for our rtionship status," told Xia Zhao. "You''re still the same Mu Chenyan and I''m still the same Xia Zhao. The only thing changed is that now, you are legally my wife and I am your husband." n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "I''m not regretting it," said Mu Chenyan. "I don''t regret it even for a second. If I wanted to regret it, I wouldn''t bring up the topic. I might have been a bit impulsive but it''s only that I didn''t consider all the other matters before making a decision. But even after all thinking, I''d still choose to marry you once I have decided."

 Chapter 1345 Changes

    Chapter 1345 Changes

    Xia Zhao drove Mu Chenyan back to his ce. Even though Mu Chenyan had been here plenty of times, she still felt different this time around. As for what was this different feeling, she couldn''t really tell for now. Anyway, there was no point in dwelling over it.

    Stepping inside this clean home, Mu Chenyan looked around and couldn''t help messing with him. "Zhao, you said this is our home now, right?"

    Xia Zhao put his keys away and not knowing what she had on mind, he still nodded his head in response, "Yes."

    "This means, I have the equal right on this house as you, right?"

    "Obviously," he answered. "But why do you ask that?"

    "Since it''s my house too, I can change how it looks, right?"

    Xia Zhao''s steps paused when he heard that and finally understood what she had in mind. She was up to no good again. He looked at his house which he decorated minimally. He decorated it the way he wasfortable with. But would he dare to refuse her? Not at all!

    "Yes," he said to her with some difficulty. "You can do whatever you want. You can add things, you can remove whatever you want. You can even call the interior designer to change the whole ce. It''s all up to you."

    In his mind, he wasforting himself with words, ''Yes! She can do it. It''s not just my living space now. It belongs to Yanzi too. As long as she is happy, she can do it all. Anyway, if she is willing to put in effort and time, it only means that she also takes this home as her own. And what could be better than that?''

    These words did work like a charm and he managed to calm himself. He did not feel like someone was invading his personal space. It wasn''t just his personal space now and he also had toe to terms with this now.

    Mu Chenyan looked at his expression to see if there was any unwillingness but she couldn''t find it at all. "You sure, you are okay with all the changes I am about to make?"

    "I''m certain," he told her.

    "This ce won''t look so calming and rxing anymore. Would you be okay with that?"

    Xia Zhao gave her a smile, "I said I am okay. You don''t have to even ask. I really mean it when I say that you can do whatever you want. When you decide to marry someone you should be ready for some changes. You can''t expect your partner to like the same things as you and neither can you force your partner. Just because I like these dull and boring colors doesn''t mean you have to live with them too. There is a need forpromise in every marriage but that doesn''t mean only one of us have to makepromises. We can work together. Until now, this was just my house before. But now, we have to work together to make it our home."

    Mu Chenyan listened to him attentively before saying, "You seem to have learned to talk well while I wasn''t around in these years. And you talk a lot more too."

    "The only think I learned is that if I don''t want us to have any misunderstandings, I''d have to break my silence and exin myself. Or else, things will not end well for us."

    Mu Chenyan smiled at him happily before saying, "Then I''m gonna seriously decide what to change around here. It''s not that I don''t like the way this ce looks but I still have to add somethings now. It''s too empty for my taste. As for the colors? I think I am alone enough to add colors into your life."

    Xia Zhao pinched her nose, "That''s for sure. And I also think this ce has been empty for so long like my heart. But now that you''re here, everything will be filled."

    Mu Chenyan gaped at him in disbelief, "Tell me honestly, who is teaching you all this?"

    "Oh, I have been observing people," he told her honestly.

    "No wonder! Or else, how can I expect you to get enlightened on your own?"

    "As if you have a romantic bone in your body."

    "I might not have a romantic bone, but I do have a passionate one."

    Xia Zhao shook his head saying, "Let me see what we have at home. I''ll make you some dinner. No, wait! Should we go out for dinner to celebrate our marriage?"

    "No! I don''t wanna go out," she replied.

    "Okay, then I''ll make something for you," he said as he went towards the kitchen. After checking the refrigerator, he came to take his phone, he told her, "I''m gonna ask someone to bring some fresh groceries. We have vegetables in the backyard but we''d need some meat."

    "You can do whatever you want. I just want to take a shower first. But, I don''t have anything to wear."

    "You can check the closet," he said. "Everything you need is already there."

    Mu Chenyan raised her brow at him, "You seem to be very well prepared. Why is that so? I thought this was not nned at all."

    "Our marriage not be nned but from the moment I you said yes to dating me. I had everything prepared for a rainy day. You never know when you''ll need something. See? Now, ites in handy."

    Mu Chenyan went to the bedroom while Xia Zhao got busy with the preparations for the dinner with the ingredients he had at home. In ten minutes, he also got the stuff he asked someone to send.

    He prepared everything for the stir-fry while he put the soup on the stove to simmer. Thinking of taking a shower himself before dinner, he went to take out his clothes. He found Mu Chenyan in the bedroom, doing her skin care. "Yanzi, your hair is still damp," he reminded her.

    "I know," she replied. "But my arms are tired trying to dry them. Why don''t youe here and do it for me?"

    Xia Zhao put the clothes he took out on the side and went to her to take the hair dryer to dry her hair patiently. His fingers ran through her hair gently and she closed her eyes feeling really rxed right now.

    After drying her hair, he took the hair brush to brush her hair slowly. Putting her hair over her shoulder, he kissed her neck as he whispered, "Your hair is dry now. I''m gonna take a shower. You can wait for a while. I''lle out to stir-fry the vegetables and we''ll be ready for dinner."

    Mu Chenyan hummed in response looking at him through the reflection in the mirror. Once he entered the bathroom, she touched her neck, right where he pressed his lips just now. She went down and saw that everything seemed to be ready, so she took it upon herself to stir-fry the vegetables. Anyway, it wasn''t anything difficult or too troublesome. Xia Zhao came down very soon and seeing her setting the dinner table, said, "I told you, I''d do it."

    "I can do it too," said Mu Chenyan. "Or you''re treating me like a guest?"

    "No way! I don''t dare!" He raised his hands in defense. Then he just sat aside and looked at her setting the table and she even took out candles from somewhere to ce in the middle. She dimmed the lights and looked at him with a proud expression as if telling him to praise her. "My Yanzi is really good at everything." n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "There is no need for thepliments." Although she said that, her obvious good mood could be seen by anyone right now.

    In this way, they sat down together to have their first candlelight dinner. Not just as a married couple but in general. They seem to have never had this experience together before. It was a bit novel.

    "Why aren''t you eating anything else?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Don''t just focus on the vegetables."

    "But you made this," he replied.

    "Shut up and eat everything."

    "Yes, boss! As they say, the form for a happy marriage is to always listen to your wife."

    "That sounds about right," she said.

    Seeing that she was done eating when she was about to get up to pick up the dishes, he held her hand and made her sit back down. "What''s wrong?"

    Xia Zhao took out a rectangr wooden box from his pocket, ced it on the table and pushed it towards her. "This is for you."

    "What''s this?" she asked.

    "Just open it and you''ll know."

    Mu Chenyan hurriedly took the wooden box and slid the lid open. Looking at the pair of emerald jade rings inside, she looked up at him. "I seem to have not given you our engagement ring or our wedding ring yet. I''ve been keeping this with me for too long. It''s about time this ring goes to its rightful owner. Don''t you think so?"

 Chapter 1346 Virtuous Act

    Chapter 1346 Virtuous Act

    Mu Chenyan first looked at his eyes filled with only her and then lowered her eyes to look at the rings once more. She picked up the exquisite and delicate jade ring in her hand, looking at it carefully. "I know the design isn''t something fancy or modern but..."

    Before he could continue, Mu Chenyan shook her head at him saying, "I like it."

    "Really?"

    "Of course!" she replied. "Don''t tell me this is a family heirloom."

    "No," he replied. "But it''s quite special."

    Mu Chenyan raised her brows at him inquisitively.

    "I personally went to the mine to get this jade. I also carved this myself. And my carving skills aren''t that exquisite and I can''t do many tricks too. So, I just made this simple style," Xia Zhao told her truthfully.

    Mu Chenyan''s lips curled up, "Then this is certainly very special." She put the two rings in the palm of her hand and asked, "When did you get the time to do this?"

    Xia Zhao didn''t reply immediately and seeing her narrowing her eyes at him suspiciously, he informed honestly, "I didn''t do it during this period of time. I did it years ago. Even when I just wanted to be responsible for what happened between us, I never thought of wronging you in any way. I always wanted to do my best for you. You just never gave me a chance to do so."

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips and didn''t respond. She had to say that he was always serious about their rtionship. No matter what intention was behind it. So, when she took his words as a joke and an insult, he was always sincere about everything rted to her. It did feel good to be valued like this and she would never deny that.

    She stretched out her hand towards him, "How about putting that ring on my finger too? Or am I supposed to do that myself?"

    Xia Zhao took the ring from her hand and put the ring on her finger. Mu Chenyan took the other ring and put it on Xia Zhao''s finger. "I think it looks good," she said.

    "I also think it looks good on your hand," he agreed.

    Mu Chenyan smiled knowingly at him and pretended like he didn''t understand why she was looking at him. "Why did you think it was a family heirloom?" asked Xia Zhao.

    "Too much jade in your family," said Mu Chenyan. "Do I even need to say this? Your family certainly uses jadeite like stones, throwing it here and there. If I didn''t know any better I''d have thought you all have a jade mine or something at home."

    Xia Zhao hesitated a little before telling her, "Well... Actually, someone does have some jade mines in the family. And it''s also true that we have too much jade at home. But the reason is that everyone likes jade more than gold or silver. But if you want, I can also find you some diamonds and rubies. Do you want it?"

    "No," she said. "I have no such obsession with jewelry. My parents have left enough of those things for me. What am I gonna do with these cold things? You should know that I value people more than these things. After all, I have always had these things but they don''t bringfort or warmth."

    Both of them finally stood up and took the dishes to the kitchen. One of them washed the dishes and the other one dried them. In this warm and homely atmosphere, theypletely forgot about getting married today. Anyway, nothing seemed different to the two of them for now.

    *Ring!*

    "Who is at the door?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Were you expecting someone?"

    Xia Zhao frowned slightly saying, "No onees here usually. Let me check." He went to check and seeing his younger brother''s face on the screen, his frown deepened. He opened the door and faced his brother, "What are you doing here at this time, Hao?"

    Xia Hao looked at his brother and breathed a sigh of relief, "Thank God, you are here! Ge, why aren''t you picking up my calls?"

    "You called?" asked Xia Zhao. "I guess I left my phone in the bedroom and didn''t pay attention. But what is it about?"

    "Ge, Dad is in the hospital," told Xia Hao.

    "What? What happened to him?" asked Xia Zhao urgently.

    "He had a stroke," answered Xia Hao. "That''s why I was calling you."

    "How is he now?" "He is doing better now," said Xia Hao. "But he is still unconscious. I felt like I should let you know. As for whether you want toe and see him, is up to you. I won''t force you."

    "Of course, we''ll go to see Uncle Song," came Mu Chenyan''s voice from behind.

    Xia Hao was very surprised to see that there was someone else at his brother''s ce and this someone was actually a woman. Oh, he had seen this woman thest time with his brother too. He looked at his brother and then at Mu Chenyan inquisitively but didn''t ask anything. The situation wasn''t right and he didn''t dare to question his brother too.

    "Zhao, let''s go," said Mu Chenyan to Xia Zhao as she tapped his arm. "We should go to the hospital and see how Uncle Song is doing. You get the keys, I''ll get our coats. Oh, which hospital is it?" Thest question was obviously directed at Xia Hao who was stunned seeing how this ''woman'' was ordering his brother around and his brother didn''t even mind. He was actually listening. He held on to his wandering thoughts and told the name of the hospital.

    Mu Chenyan brought their coats, and their phones, and changing her shoes, she went out with Xia Zhao. "Drive fast," she said to Xia Zhao who was still following the speed limit.

    "We have to get to the hospital to see a patient not to be a patient ourselves," was Xia Zhao''s response. "Besides, you heard what Hao said, Dad''s condition is not that serious anymore. We can take our time."

    "Can''t you break the traffic rules?" she asked. "For once, you should do it. It''s your father who is in the hospital."

    "But the situation isn''t urgent enough for me to put myself, you, and other people on the road in a dangerous situation," he answered.

    Mu Chenyan was frustrated by his answer. "We just got married and you already are making me want to beat you."

    "Let''s see Dad first. I''ll let you do whatever you want after we go back home."

    "Why does this sound so wrong?" she asked.

    "I think because you have wrong things going through your mind," was his answer. "Are you saying I have a dirty mind?"

    "Don''t you?" n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "What did you say?"

    "I said, how is that possible? You can never have a dirty mind. It''s all me."

    "That''s what I thought," was her smug answer.

    Xia Zhao shook his head at her and focused on driving. It took them thirty minutes to get to the hospital. Thankfully, it wasn''t a peak hour so they didn''t get stuck in traffic.

    Xia Hao also arrived there with them and thinking of something, he kept hesitating whether to say it or not. But seeing how close Xia Zhao and Mu Chenyan were, he bit the bullet and stopped them. "Ge, you wait for my signal. Onlye after you get my signal."

    "Are we doing an undercover operation?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    Xia Hao smiled dryly, "No. Just let me take Mom elsewhere. I think you won''t like to run into her first thing aftering here, right?"

    Both Xia Zhao and Mu Chenyan nodded their head simultaneously, "I''ll wait. I definitely don''t have the patience for your mother." Seeing Xia Hao''s expression, she said, "What are you looking at? Your mother doesn''t like me. And I believe it hasn''t changed over the years."

    Xia Hao didn''t know much about it but he wasn''t all that curious for now either. He took the elevator up and kept thinking about what excuses to make so that his mother could leave and give his brother a chance to enter his father''s ward. But all his ns failed. No matter what he said to his mother, she wasn''t listening at all and refused to leave. Seeing her stubborn expression, Xia Hao was very helpless.

    He really wanted to shake his mother and ask, whom she was trying to show this virtuous act after sending his father to the hospital. But considering he was still her son and she was still his mother, he really couldn''t say that. So, he sent his brother a message that his mother wasn''t moving and he couldn''t do anything.

    Xia Hao didn''t know much about it but he wasn''t all that curious for now either. He took the elevator up and kept thinking about what excuses to make so that his mother could leave and give his brother a chance to enter his father''s ward. But all his ns failed. No matter what he said to his mother, she wasn''t listening at all and refused to leave. Seeing her stubborn expression, Xia Hao was very helpless.

    Xia Zhao told it to Mu Chenyan who was tired of waiting.

    "Why is it so difficult? I thought your brother was resourceful! Ask him who is your father''s doctor." She took the elevator up and looked around and went to find the doctor herself.

 Chapter 1347 Busy Bee

    Mu Chenyan swaggered to the thirteenth floor and knocked on a particr door before opening it. "Dr. Cai, do you have a minute?"

    Dr. Cai moved her eyes from theputer screen and seeing Mu Chenyan her brows quirked up a little. "Am I seeing things? Or is this really Miss Mu Chenyan herself?"

    "No need to look so surprised," said Mu Chenyan. "We can catch upter. How about you do me a favor for now?"

    "Of course, people don''te to the temple without a reason," said Dr. Cai in a strange tone. "What can I help you with?"

    "You have a patient named Xia Songbei?"

    Dr. Cai nodded her head. She remembered this patient very well. "I do have this patient. He just came in because of a stroke. His condition was critical when he was brought in. He is stable for now but he hasn''t gained consciousness yet which means that he is still in danger. But why are you asking about him? What''s your rtionship?"

    "Tsk. Such a poor code of conduct. How can you give me the details of your patient without knowing who he is to me? This can put your career in danger, you know," said Mu Chenyan.

    Dr. Cai crossed her arms in front of her chest and stared at Mu Chenyan, "I wouldn''t answer just anyone. But it''s you who asked and you are not someone who would ask useless questions. Besides, even if I don''t tell you anything, you can take out all the patient information from the database. Who can stop the boss around here, right?"

    "True," Mu Chenyan nodded her head. "Anyway, that patient is very important to me. Until a few hours ago, he was a dear uncle and now, he is my father-inw as well."

    Dr. Cai was taking a sip of the coffee and ended up spurting it out when she heard Mu Chenyan''s words. "What? What did you just say? You? Did you get married? Who is so blind?"

    "That would be me," Xia Zhao took a step over to enter her office and said hello.

    Dr. Cai looked at this handsome face and then looked at Mu Chenyan''s face, "So, you ept that you are blind?"

    "I''ve heard that everyone in love is blind," answered Xia Zhao. "So, I don''t see a problem here."

    "I feel old," said Dr. Cai. "I haven''t heard something like this in a long while."

    "Your marriage must have lost the spark by now,"mented Mu Chenyan.

    "You can shut up, Chenyan!" said Dr. Cai. "Don''t look for a fight here. I don''t think it''s necessary."

    "Okay. Then do me a favor."

    "What is it?"

    "Call patient Xia Songbei''s family members to your office and give them a long detail about the condition of the patient. Long enough to make itst minimum thirty minutes," said Mu Chenyan.

    "What are you up to?" asked Dr. Cai.

    "I don''t have good feelings for my newly minted mother-inw. Considering how you have had a long struggle with your own mother-inw, I believe understand my feelings. Don''t you?"

    Dr. Cai rubbed her chin and agreed, "Sure. It''s not a big deal. I can do this much for you."

    "Thank you! I''ll invite you over dinner some day to repay this favor!"

    "There is no need for that," Dr. Cai waved off her hand. "I''m happy to be of help to you."

    "You don''t mean that."

    "You bet I don''t!" was Dr. Cai''s response. "But considering we have been ssmates once, I''ll still do this favor for you."

    "Thanks again!" With that Mu Chenyan out of there. "See? It was that easy."

    Xia Zhao patted her head saying, "My Yanzi is as awesome as always."

    "Of course, I am!"

    Both of them stood in a corner keeping an eye on the ward door of Xia Songbei. Soon a nurse went in and then Xia Hao and his mother followed the nurse out. Xia Hao still looked a bit confused and a bit anxious because when he heard that the doctor had something to discuss with them about his father''s condition, he felt like something was wrong with his dad.

    Seeing that they left, Xia Zhao and Mu Chenyan entered the ward easily. "This indeed felt like an undercover operation," said Mu Chenyan. "But it wasn''t challenging enough." Saying that she walked up to the end of the bed and looked at the patient file. She opened it to read through it while Xia Zhao looked at his father who was still unconscious and looked so pale and frail at the moment. "Uncle''s condition is simr to what his doctor just said. Something stimted him which resulted into this stroke. His over all physical health is pretty bad. You didn''t notice?"

    Xia Zhao nodded in response, "I did notice. But whenever I talk to him about his health or even bring up this topic, he always says that he knows. He knows his body better and everything is fine with him. I even tried to take him for a health check-up but he shook me off. In the end, we had a big argument and didn''t talk to each other for months."

    "I did not think you''d do something this childish. Aren''t you always steady and mature?"

    "It''s not my fault," Xia Zhao defended himself at the moment in front of his wife. "It''s all him. He always makes me mad."

    "I thought only I did that," said Mu Chenyan.

    "In your case, whatever you do, I don''t get mad. I always just found it cute. But it''s not the same with him." He went silent for a while and sighed, "Maybe I should have been a bit more stubborn with him."

    "What''s the point of regretting it now?" asked Mu Chenyan. "The doctors have done their best already. Now, all you can hope for is that his will to live is strong enough or else, he might not even get through this night." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Xia Zhao looked up at her.

    "I''m serious. You can see it for yourself. All his tests are pointing towards this result. I know it''s difficult to ept but it''s the truth. I''m just letting you know so that you can be prepared for everything."

    Xia Zhao took the file from her hands and read through it carefully. The more he read, the more his expression turned serious. It was exactly what she said just now. On the other hand, Mu Chenyan pulled a stool and sat next to the bed. She poked Xia Songbei''s cheek saying, "Uncle, you can''t sleep like this. Not today. This is an important day. I just got married. If I remember it right, you told me once that the day I got married, you''d give me a huge present. I''m still waiting for that."

    Xia Zhao looked at her and didn''t stop her from annoying his father.

    "You said if Zhao bullied me, you''d fight him for me. How are you gonna do it lying here? This is really not good. You can''t leave me so soon."

    "You really don''t even let me sleep," came a weak and hoarse voice.

    Mu Chenyan bit her lips and smiled sheepishly, "Did I disturb you?"

    Xia Songbei opened his eyes slightly at looked at her face, "What do you think?"

    "I won''t say it wasn''t my intention because honestly, disturbing you was truly my intention right now," said Mu Chenyan. "But I can give you an apology. Do you want it?"

    Xia Songbei wanted to move his hand but felt pain coursing through all his body which made him hiss.

    "Don''t move. Don''t try to be brave too. You''re still a patient whose condition isn''t looking too good. I never thought you would be so careless with your health."

    "I wasn''t lucky enough like Brother Tian. I didn''t have a daughter like you to take care of my health."

    "That''s right. Not everyone is that fortunate," said Mu Chenyan. "Do you want some water?"

    "Yes, please!"

    Mu Chenyan helped him get some warm water and fed it to him with a straw. Xia Songbei felt better after drinking some water and then looked at his eldest son who was just standing there looking at the two of them.

    "You scared me. I thought you won''t wake up," said Mu Chenyan.

    "With you buzzing in my ear. How can I not wake up?"

    "I''m not a bee. How can I buzz?" she argued.

    "But you''re always busy like a bee," said Xia Songbei.

    "Oh, I never thought about this. I''m certainly a model busy bee. Doesn''t sound all that bad."

    "It sounds bad to me," said Xia Zhao. "A bee works during her short life every minute to make just a half spoonful of honey and then it dies. Very short life span. Doesn''t sound good anymore, does it, Yanzi?"

    "Uhh... Well, if you look at it this way, it really doesn''t sound good."

    Xia Songbeiughed a little but couldn''t continue because of the pain. "Don''t make meugh right now. It''s difficult to even breathe right now."

 Chapter 1348 Changing Names

    "Seeing how your spirit is looking so good, I almost thought that you were pretending to be unconscious all this while," said Mu Chenyan.

    Xia Songbei didn''t mind her words at all but even smiled weakly at her. His gentle eyes stayed on her face as he said, "I guess my will to live is still alive inside of me. I haven''tpletely given up on life. And to be honest, I''m a bit unwilling to leave the world just like this."

    "Why is that so?" asked Mu Chenyan curiously.

    "I keep worrying about my eldest son who is a loner," sighed Xia Songbei. "How can I leave the world with peace of mind?"

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head in agreement, "He is truly a worrisome existence."

    "Yanzi!"

    "What? I''m just speaking the truth," said Mu Chenyan hurriedly. "But Uncle Song doesn''t have to worry anymore. This worrisome existence belongs to me now. All of him." Saying that she held up her left hand unting the ring on her finger.

    Seeing this ring on her finger, Xia Songbei was a bit stunned for a moment before his eyes wandered to his son''s hands, and seeing the matching ring on his son''s hand, his heart truly felt like a heavy weight had been lifted and he was feeling free.

    "When are you getting married?" asked Xia Songbei with excitement in his eyes. He could not express his excitement in any other way because his body didn''t allow it at all. He was feeling really weak but talking to Mu Chenyan, he didn''t mind lifting up his spirit. Besides, just seeing them wearing the rings has already made him recover quite a bit. Or maybe it was all just in his head. Anyway, with this mentality, he was truly in a good mood.

    "We already got married," informed Xia Zhao.

    Xia Songbei''s face fell, "And you didn''t even think of telling your weak and old father?"

    "Zhao, learn to talk first or keep quiet!" said Mu Chenyan then she turned to Xia Songbei. She lowered her voice and became a little gentle as she added, "Uncle Song, we registered our marriage today. It was a very random impulse of mine but your son followed my lead. So, it''s not that we didn''t want to tell you. It''s just that we didn''t think about it for a while."

    Xia Songbei did not doubt her words even for a second. Who was Mu Chenyan? How could he not know? It was because he was all too familiar with the way she was that he wasn''t even surprised when she said that they registered their marriage on impulse. Anyway, it was something she was very capable of doing. And as for his steady and mature son? His steadiness was nothing more than a joke in front of Mu Chenyan.

    However, this news was enough to make him happy for days toe and help him in his recovery too. He didn''t really care that they didn''t inform him first. No matter how it happened, the only thing that mattered to him right now was that his eldest son was finally married and had started his own family. And that too with Mu Chenyan. What could be better news than this for him right now?

    "Good! Good! That''s really good!" said Xia Songbei repeatedly. He wanted tough right now but the pain didn''t allow it. "Finally, my son is taken down by the only person who was capable of taking him down in this world."

    "What are you talking about, Dad?" asked Xia Zhao.

    "Don''t give me that attitude," said Xia Songbei with a look of disgust on his face. "You can only show this attitude to me. Try doing it with Chenyan. Let''s see how you fare."

    "Why would I show her an attitude? I don''t see a reason why I have to show her an attitude."

    "So, I deserve to face this stinky temper of yours?"

    "Maybe..."

    "You!"

    Mu Chenyan patted Xia Songbei''s arm saying, "Uncle, rx. Don''t get so excited right now. Your health doesn''t allow it. So, be careful, please!" Then she red at Xia Zhao, "You were so worried about him just now, and now, you wanna fight with him again? Can''t you talk nicely?"

    "Yanzi, you can''t be so partial here. I didn''t do anything."

    "Don''t act pitiful with me. I won''t show any mercy!"

    Xia Zhao tsked to himself and stayed silent. It was better for him to say less unless he really made his wife mad at him. It wasn''t easy to coax her. So, he had to be careful. Seeing the way Xia Zhao listened to her, Xia Songbei pursed his lips to hold back hisughter. See? He said only she could control him. It was still fun to see it.

    "Uncle Song..." Before Mu Chenyan could continue, Xia Songbei stopped her saying, "Wait! Why are you still calling me Uncle? Didn''t you get the certificate? Why don''t you change the title officially?"

    Mu Chenyan didn''t say anything. She knew that she was supposed to call her father-inw Dad just like Xia Zhao but she couldn''t do just immediately. It was difficult. Dad was the word she used the least in her life. Even when she considered Elder Xiang as her father with all her heart, it was very rare for her to call him Dad too. Now, calling Xia Songbei Dad was even more difficult. Especially since she was too used to calling him Uncle all her life.

    Seeing her expression, how could Xia Zhao not tell what dilemma she was in? And she wouldn''t allow her to dwell over it or put her in a difficult position too. So, he took the matter upon himself, "Well, she can''t do that. She hasn''t served you tea yet as the new daughter-inw, how can she change names?"

    "Then when are we serving the tea?" asked Xia Songbei.

    "When Yanzi is in the mood to do so," he replied.

    Both Mu Chenyan and Xia Songbei gave him a look and he pretended like he didn''t say anything wrong right now. How could he wrong his wife? That was impossible. Don''t expect so much from him. He was already considered a very unfilial son so adding more to that didn''t really matter to him all that much.

    Xia Songbei sighed to himself helplessly, "It''s okay. I can wait. Uncle is also fine with me. I''m quite used to that too."

    Mu Chenyan smiled thankfully at Xia Zhao who gave her a reassuring smile in return.

    "Let''s not talk about this. We have important matters to discuss," said Xia Zhao.

    "Like what?" asked Xia Songbei.

    "Like why are you here right now? How did you end up in the hospital?"

    Xia Songbei went silent in response.

    "Dad, I''m asking you something. Silence isn''t gonna help anyone right now. You need to tell me what stimted you to the point of getting a stroke. My grandparents are healthier than you at their age. Have you seen your own health?" n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Xia Songbei said, "How can Ipare with your grandparents? They have lived a very healthy lifestyle. How can they fall to my position?"

    "I think a healthy lifestyle is one thing. A peaceful environment also helps a lot," said Mu Chenyan. "I know this from experience. You see, the doctors said Elder Xiang might not live for long after Godmother died. They asked me to focus more on his mental health and keep him surrounded by positive things. And I did that. I tried everything to make him happy and see, that he is still here with us which I am very thankful for in this life."

    "That''s true. Dad, you have too much on your mind and the people you keep around aren''t really helping with your condition," said Xia Zhao straightforwardly.

    "You''re talking about your mother."

    "Of course, I am talking about her. No matter how you hide it from me, I can still tell that she yed a big role in bringing you to this ce."

    Xia Songbei didn''t deny it but he didn''t want to discuss this matter with his eldest son either. After all, he already knew how big the differences between his son and his wife were. It''d only get worse if he said anything. It''s not that things would change if he stayed silent but at least, they could keep this superficial peace right now.

    "My condition isn''t as bad as you say," argued Xia Songbei.

    "Uncle Song, I might have dropped out of medical school but I stille from a family of doctors. Reading the reports is a very basic thing and I can''t be wrong. And I don''t think you can doubt your own son''s abilities. We aren''t blind. We have met your doctor beforeing to see you. We understand your condition better than you think."

    "So, there is no reason for Dad to quibble over this uselessly," added Xia Zhao taking over Mu Chenyan''s words who nodded her head along with his words in agreement.

 Chapter 1349 Manifest Into Reality

    Chapter 1349 Manifest Into Reality

    Xia Songbei gave these two a speechless look. Who wanted to quibble with these two people? He definitely had no such intention since it was a very pointless thing to do anyway. But currently, he was out of options. He really didn''t want to talk about his health condition. He didn''t think they were exaggerating his condition because he knew his body well. "If you don''t want me to quibble," started Xia Songbei. "Please stop asking."

    "Okay," agreed Mu Chenyan without any hesitation once she saw the unwillingness in his eyes. She didn''t want to push him for an answer right now considering he was still lying on a hospital bed. And since she agreed, Xia Zhao had no reason to talk about this topic.

    Xia Songbei actually breathed a sigh of relief when he saw that the two of them stopped asking him. "But," added Mu Chenyan which made Xia Songbei hold his breath. "You have to better take care of yourself. Do you want me to hire a caretaker for you now?"

    "I''m not that old yet," said Xia Songbei strangely. "I didn''t think you''re old," said Mu Chenyan. "It''s more like you are acting like a kid who doesn''t want to take his medicine on time."

    Xia Songbei gave her a look, "You really know how to talk."

    "I certainly do," she replied. "But you and I both know that I am more of a doer than a talker. So, don''t test me."

    "I don''t dare." n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Mu Chenyan gave him a sweet smile, "Since you agreed. I''ll take your word for it, for now, Uncle Song. Take care of yourself. Don''t give us a surprise like you did today. Because I don''t think anyone would wannae to the hospital on the day of their marriage."

    Xia Songbei pursed his lips, "Sorry about that. I really chose the wrong day to have a stroke."

    "You did," she said. Xia Songbei smiled at her, "Your way of showing concern is really something else. I don''t know how Brother Tian manages to bear with you."

    "What do you mean? Didn''t you always say that I''m very cute?"

    "Yes, you are. But sometimes, you are evilly cute too."

    Mu Chenyan grinned, "I like to hear that. I''ll be keeping tabs on you from now on."

    "Don''t you have enough on your te?" asked Xia Songbei. "I think my son is a handful. You don''t have to spare your energy to pay attention to me. Don''t you agree?"

    "I guess you forgot that I have always had endless energy in me," was her response.

    "I''ll say, Chenyan, you really don''t have to go that far. I promise to take care of myself better."

    "Why should I believe you?"

    "Because I have more will to live right now," said Xia Songbei. "And why is that so?"

    "My eldest son is finally married. There is finally some slim hope of holding my grandchild. How can I not look forward to life? Trust me, I have no intention of dying at the moment."

    Mu Chenyan stared at him intently to observe his expression. It seemed like she wanted to see through him to know if he was telling the truth or not. And well, for now, it looked like he was telling the truth so she generously let him off the hook, "I''ll believe you this once."

    "Thank you!" said Xia Songbei as if he was given some kind of relief. "You should rest now. I''ve disturbed you for long enough and made you talk so much. It seems like I also forgot to call your doctor as well," said Mu Chenyan. She stopped up and went to a side to pull out the contact number of Dr. Cai to let her know that her patient was finally awake.

    On the other hand, Xia Songbei looked at his son and asked, "Did you take her to see your grandparents?"

    Xia Zhao looked into his father''s eyes and asked in return, "What do you think?"

    Xia Songbei smiled bitterly, "Right. You would always let them know before doing anything."

    "They came to see Yanzi the other day and we sat down for tea together. Well, grandparents really seemed to love Yanzi and her liveliness," told Xia Zhao.

    Xia Songbei nodded to himself slightly, "There was never a doubt that they wouldn''t like Chenyan. She is a perfect fit for not just your grandparents but also the whole n. Even if you take her there to meet all the elders of the family, she''d really fit right in like she was always a part of that ce."

    "I know," agreed Xia Zhao. "I texted Grandparents about our marriage registration and they seemed happier than me. And they even loved the fact that this marriage came so suddenly and randomly."

    "Of course, they loved it," said Xia Songbei. "They have never been the fan of big gestures. They always said that there is no special time, you create it and you feel it. It can be just a minute that you felt something you never did before and that one minute suddenly bes very special to you."

    "I''ve heard them say that too," said Xia Zhao.

    "I''m very happy for you, son!" said Xia Songbei seriously. "You can''t even understand how exhrated I am to know that you got married to Chenyan. This is very big to me. Thank you for persisting for so long in front of her stubbornness! I am sure you''ll realize that this was all worth it."

    "You are my father or hers?" asked Xia Zhao. "Why are you thanking me for her?"

    "You might not remember what I said to you when I first took you to see Chenyan for the first time when she was a little girl."

    "I have some impression," replied Xia Zhao. "Her parents were alive. We went to the Mu family house. You said you are taking me to see your best friends and their cute little princess who is too feisty for her age. But I''m a little older than her so I should take care of her like a big brother and give in to her more."

    "You do remember," Xia Songbei muttered to himself thoughtfully. "I didn''t expect it. Or is it that you just don''t forget anything rted to her?"

    "You can say that," he replied. "I have also realized veryte that I seem to not forget anything when she is involved. Sadly, that realization was a bitte and we ended up wasting half a lifetime."

    "It doesn''t matter," said Xia Songbei. "Since you guys managed to find each other back. It means that everything was just meant to be this way." He took a deep breath before adding, "She is still like a daughter to me. She is the only living memory of two good friends of mine. So, I hope you understand how special she always had been to me."

    "I understand," he replied. "Actually, I should thank you for pushing a loner like me towards her. I don''t know if I managed to make her feel less lonely back then what I know is that she indeed added a lot of colors into my life which I had been unfamiliar with. She picked fights with me and amused me. Always gave me a challenge and always looked so moody whenever she lost. Without realizing it, I fell for that feeling I felt whenever she was around looking for a fight with me."

    "Are you badmouthing me right now, Zhao?" came Mu Chenyan''s voice from behind like a ghost.

    "How is that possible?" asked Xia Zhao without changing his expression.

    "It better not be like that," she said. "Uncle, your doctor is not picking up her phone. I''ll go to the nurse''s station."

    "You can just call the nurse''s station," reminded Xia Zhao.

    Mu Chenyan facepalmed herself, "Wow! I can''t believe I forgot that. How am I so forgetful these days? Do you think I getting Alzheimer''s?"

    "Shut up!" said Xia Zhao. "Can''t you say something nice?"

    "Why? I just said it! What''s wrong with saying it?"

    "The words we speak out loud, often manifest into reality. So, don''t speak so recklessly again."

    "That''s bullshi...." She didn''tplete that seeing the way Xia Zhao looked at her right now. Rubbing her nose, she said, "I''ll keep your words in mind. I won''t say it again. But there is something seriously wrong with my memory."

    "Okay. I''ll add more almonds and walnuts into our diet."

    "Would it be helpful?"

    "You won''t know unless you try," he replied.

    "Let''s go and call Dr. Cai. And then we should leave before your motheres back," said Mu Chenyan.

    Xia Zhao agreed with that heavily and instantly took her hand to lead her out saying to his father, "We''lle to see you again sometimeter."

    "Oh," was the only response Xia Songbei gave but he didn''t try to stop them either. Even if he wanted to, he knew they wouldn''t stay. Anyway, it was better for them to leave before his wife came back. It''ll be trouble for all of them otherwise. And then no one would be happy.

 Chapter 1350 Snap

    Chapter 1350 Snap

    Mu Chenyan strode out leisurely with Xia Zhao keeping pace with her. She put her hand in front of her mouth as she yawned tiredly. Seeing her like this, Xia Zhao had the same doting look in his eyes as always. "My Yanzi is really tired, eh?" asked Xia Zhao.

    "What do you think?" she retorted.

    Feeling like teasing her, he added, "But didn''t I just hear someone say that she has endless energy in this world?"

    Mu Chenyan of course hadn''t forgotten what she just said to Xia Songbei and it''s not like she was lying. She had always been the hyper bear kid. In other words, she was the most annoying brat whom everyone would hate for causing mischief at every step. "I did have that endless energy but I can''t deceive myself anymore. I''m getting old, Zhao," she sighed tiredly.

    Xia Zhao smiled at her response and touched her head, "What is this? Even my Dad refused to ept that he is old and here you are always bringing this up. If you are old, what am I?"

    "If I''m old, so are you," she told him leaving no room for any refutation on his part. Xia Zhao nodded his head, "I''ll ept that. I''ll be whatever you want me to be."

    "That''s more like it."

    He walked closer to her and put his hand around her waist as he pulled her closer. Mu Chenyan was stunned and in disbelief for a moment. She looked down at his hand ced on her waist and then at his face.

    "What is this?" she asked.

    "Since you''re old and so am I, we both need some support. I thought we should be supporting each other and bringing energy to each other too."

    "You make me speechless, Zhao," shemented. "And I never thought I''d love this feeling of speechlessness." She hugged his arm and said, "It seems you don''t mind being intimate in public anymore. My Zhao is leaving his uptight personality behind, eh?"

    "I left a lot of things behind without realizing it myself. Can''t you see? I always left my silence far away when you are around?"

    "I don''t know how others talk romantically but I love the way you''re showing your love for me in your words."

    "I''m pretty sure others don''t do it our way," he said as he tucked a stray strand of her hair behind her ear. "But that also means, we are writing our own unique love story."

    "Then you better right it beautifully," she said to him seriously. "I''d love to read it back with a smile on my face."

    "I''ll try my best, wife!"

    This call of ''wife'' from himmade Mu Chenyan purse her lips as her heart felt a surge of emotions she couldn''t describe. Even if she loved it when he called her Yanzi, she couldn''t deny that hearing the word wife in his voice did things to her that she didn''t even know were possible.

    Both of them were in their own world and didn''t even notice when they passed by Dr. Cai, Xia Han, and his mother, Lin Qiao. The others might have not noticed but Lin Qiao''s eyes instantly recognized her eldest son''s back without any mistake and seeing him sticking to a woman, she was startled.

    Without caring about her husband''s health or the doctor beside her, she rushed to catch up with Xia Zhao and tried to pull Mu Chenyan away from him as she shouted, "Who is this bitch sticking to my son? Are you trying to seduce my son? Have you asked for my permission?"

    Of course, with her meager strength, she couldn''t pull Mu Chenyan even if thetter was caught off guard right now. And seeing Lin Qiao, Mu Chenyan felt her good mood dropping instantly. Xia Zhao also looked very solemn and displeased right now as he stared at his mother.

    On the other hand, when Lin Qiao saw Mu Chenyan''s face clearly, she was stunned and even instinctively took a step back from her. But then sheposed herself reminding herself that she was already this old and couldn''t embarrass herself by showing her fear of this woman who was the same age as her eldest son.

    But she didn''t realize that she had already embarrassed herself by rushing up to the couple right now as if she was catching adultery. "Why is it you?" asked Lin Qiao with her teeth grinding in hatred. "Why are you hanging around my son again? What do you even want?"

    "Tsk. You really make no progress with age," said Mu Chenyan. "They say the older you are, the wiser you be. But you, Miss Lin Qiao are going downhill. And I am not even surprised. Not even a little bit."

    Lin Qiao crossed her arms in front of her chest as she said in a loud voice, "As if you have made any progress. You are still as disrespectful to your elders as you were back then."

    Mu Chenyan shrugged nonchntly, "What can I say? My godmother taught me to only respect people who deserve that respect. I should not focus on age and seniority to show my respect. Because some people just don''t deserve that respect from me."

    "That dead woman had nothing good to say."

    "I''m being very civilized right now," said Mu Chenyan as the temperature around her dropped and her eyes chilled. "I don''t need to remind you that my godmother is off limits. Say another word about her and I won''t hesitate before snapping some bones of yours even if I can''t snap your neck out of myst shred of ''respect'' for you, just because you are Zhao''s biological mother and Uncle Song''s wife. So unfortunate for them, I''d say."

    Lin Qiao wanted to yell at her but she also knew she couldn''t push someone like Mu Chenyan who really would do what she said. She didn''t doubt that she''d break her bones. And her old bones won''t be able to take it. She wasn''t young like back then. So, she decided to not touch her sensitive points.

    "Let go of my son," ordered Lin Qiao.

    Mu Chenyan held Xia Zhao''s arm even tighter instead of letting go as if purposely going against her to make her go mad with anger. And it worked because one could see a vein twitching on Lin Qiao''s face right now. "I didn''t even let go back then because of your words, what makes you think I''d do it now that he is all mine?" asked Mu Chenyan to her in a provocative tone.

    Her words made Xia Zhao frown a little but he still chose to stay quiet. He''d just ask the questions he hadter. For now, he couldn''t shake her momentum. Anyway, he didn''t care how she dealt with his mother because he knew Mu Chenyan had her own descretion and won''t cross the line she wasn''t supposed to cross. In fact, it was her respect for this ''elder'' that she was still not lifting her hand at her. Because if she was a peer of someone younger, by now, Mu Chenyan would have resorted to physical violence rather than ying the game of words that she especially disliked and found too troublesome. n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "You!" Lin Qiao was hopping mad as she stomped her foot and looked at her son. "Zhao, don''t you hate it when people get close to you? Why are you letting her even stand with you? Push her away."

    Mu Chenyan smiled at her while Xia Zhao pretended like he couldn''t hear her as his eyes were focused on Mu Chenyan whose smile didn''t reach her eyes right now. He could see the coldness in her eyes which was rare to find considering even when she hot-tempered, she rarely showed such coldness to people. It meant only one thing. She despised his mother very much. And he actually wasn''t sure why.

    "I''m talking to you right now, Zhao!"

    "I can hear you but who said I''d have to listen to you and act ording to your words? If I wanted to be controlled by you, I wouldn''t be where I am right now," was the only response Xia Zhao gave her in a voice that was devoid of any emotion. He seemed to be talking to stranger right now rather than his mother. However, it wasn''t all surprising if one knew about the history between this pair of mother and son. He had given too many chances to his mother and reached the point of being a stranger only after repeated failures to trying to build a normal rtionship with his mother.

    "You unfilial bastard!" shouted Lin Qiao loudly. "How dare you go against me again and again? I have let you go easily in the past and you think I can''t do anything to you. You are still my son no matter how hard your wings have gotten. I can still clip those wings of yours!" She raised her hand to hit him but her wrist was held by Mu Chenyan who was still smiling sweetly at her.

    "You just snapped myst shred of respect for you," she said in a calm tone and went on, "So, I''ll," with a pause, a crack was heard as Lin Qiao screamed in pain looking at her wrist which Mu Chenyan just broke with her deadly grip. "Snap your bones. I always keep my promises."

 Chapter 1351 Maniac

    Chapter 1351 Maniac

    Followed by the crunching sound of bones, Lin Qiao''s scream echoed in the silent hallway of the hospital. Mu Chenyan''s expression didn''t even fluctuate while Xia Zhao closed his eyes helplessly. No matter how much he disliked his mother, he really couldn''t treat her like this. That''s why he usually chose the tactic of avoidance and silence. But it was true that this only made Lin Qiao think that he still had her in his heart which was absolutely a lie.

    "She still doesn''t hold back,"mented Dr. Cai as she crossed her arms and was enjoying the show in front of her. Well, there wasn''t much entertainment in the hospital so this was considered rather fun to her. Hearing her voice, Xia Hao snapped back from his stunned state and wanted to rush to his mother''s side but Dr. Cai held him back.

    "Take advice from someone older than you, learn to restrain yourself."

    "That''s my mother!" he snapped. Dr. Cai shrugged, "Are you blind? It''s your mother who started it too. If you are gonna purposely go in front of the sleeping tiger and annoy him, what are you expecting? Your mother should have known better before going up to mess with that she-devil over there. And if she doesn''t know any better, then you should. If you took a step closer, you are gonna get the burnt of this too." With that, she let his wrist go. "The choice is up to you. I already warned you that Mu Chenyan is anything but patient and gentle."

    Xia Hao wanted to do something but he stopped once he looked into Mu Chenyan''s eyes. Those chilled eyes told him that Dr. Cai was right. If he really moved, he''d be the next victim. And just because he was young, he did not have the delusion that he''d be able to win in a fight. Even if he didn''t know Mu Chenyan much, he knew that the woman always provoked his elder brother and grew up fighting with him. So, he really couldn''t underestimate her skills.

    "Yanzi!" called out Xia Zhao.

    Mu Chenyan looked over at him and asked, "What?"

    "Fix it!"

    "No," she replied.

    "Yanzi, do it."

    Mu Chenyan growled under her breath before fixing the dislocated wrist of Lin Qiao which only made thetter scream even louder and Mu Chenyan smirked to herself. Well, who didn''t know that breaking bones didn''t hurt as much as fixing them did? With a jerk, she threw Lin Qiao away which made thetter stumble, and could only stabilize herself when Xia Hao helped her or else her bum would have kissed the ground right now.

    "You bitch!" shouted Lin Qiao. "Oh, did you just realize that?" asked Mu Chenyan with fake surprise. "But you should have known this already. It has long been established that I''m not a good person. What made you think I won''t do anything to you after you not only cursed at my husband but also raised your hand at him? Who the hell are you? Who gave you the right to yell at him? Did you take my permission before trying to touch my husband?" n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Xia Zhao pursed his lips to suppress his smile right now. It always felt amazing when Mu Chenyan imed him as her own. But being protected by her was just another feeling. What can he say now, he didn''t mind hiding behind her. He was more than happy to do so once in a while. On the other hand, Lin Qiao was shocked from the moment she heard Mu Chenyan say that Xia Zhao was her husband. How was that possible? Howe she didn''t know about this? No! It was impossible! It must be this wench''s wishful thinking and nothing more than that. Yes, that must be true!

    "He is my son!" gnashed Lin Qiao. "And I''ll never let your wishful thinking be true. He can never be your husband. I will never allow that."

    "Sadly for you, it isn''t up to you," replied Mu Chenyan. "Because I am his legally wedded wife. I have thew on my side. You, what do you even have? You only give birth to him and nothing else. You are not even in the same family book as him. So, who has the wishful thinking here exactly?"

    Lin Qiao''s body trembled as she wanted to scratch Mu Chenyan''s face but she knew she couldn''t do that. She was well aware of her own strength. She couldn''t even y the age card but Mu Chenyan didn''t give a fuck about any of that. This was why she really hated her! She was even more difficult to control than Xia Zhao. How could she ept this daughter-inw? Never! "You shameless sl*t! You must have seduced my son. It must be. Or else how could he fall for someone like you? You must have tricked him with your treachery. Yes! You have always been a treacherous person. You definitely did something shady to marry my son. But I''m telling you, I will never ept you as my daughter-inw! Zhao, why are you standing there? Divorce this wench right now!"

    Xia Zhao''s face hardened and his fists clenched in anger but Mu Chenyan covered his fist with her hand. She didn''t want him to do something against his own principles just for her. Anyway, she could do whatever she wanted. It was age-old saying that no mother-inw and daughter-inw could live in peace. Some mothers-inw tortured their daughters-inw and some daughters-inw tortured their mothers-inw. Anyway, one of them had to dominate, no? And in her case, the person who could assert dominance over her had yet to be born!

    Mu Chenyanughed at Lin Qiao''s distorted expression andughed even more slowly. "Trechery? Scheming? Shady things? Seduction? Are you talking about yourself, Miss Lin Qiao?" She gave her a mocking smile as she went on, "Do you think everyone is like you who needs to resort to scheming and seduction to get a man? I think you are better at those things than me. I was never taught such shady things. Especially, no one taught me how to steal my own best friend''s fiance, and that too, right in that best friend''s house. It was you who used all that to get Uncle Song. Do you think I need to do all that? Besides, you never got epted by the whole Xia n but yet you are here married to Uncle Song. What makes you think just your eptance is necessary in my life?"

    Lin Qiao shook violently when Mu Chenyan reminded her of the dark past that she had always tried to avoid. She never let anyone mention any of that but today, she really hit the iron te. No, she picked up the stone and smashed it on her own foot by going up against Mu Chenyan. How could she forget that this woman never had any filter on her mouth? "You!"

    "What? You can do it and I can''t even speak about it, eh? How is that possible? Can you even stop me? You should have thought before trying to mess with me. I don''t mind giving you a lesson that life didn''t manage to teach you even until now. I don''t understand it. Where does this arrogance of yourse from? What do you even have? Just the title of Mrs. Xia Songbei? Do you find it honorable? Don''t you see how peopleugh at you behind your back and find you pitiful too? You ruined Uncle Song and he didn''t throw you away that''s already very kind of him. But you take this kindness for granted. Why is that? Do you really think you are all that? Maybe you are, but don''t ever forget that I''m Mu Chenyan. I have always been a nightmare. And I love being one too."

    Lin Qiao lowered her head and slowly her shoulders started shaking heavily. It seemed like she was crying but when she looked up, one could see that she wasughing. Laughing like a maniac right now.

    Seeing her like this, Mu Chenyan turned to Xia Zhao, "I didn''t break her, did I? Tsk. Tsk. Her mental fortitude is really weak if this much was enough to break her."

    Xia Zhao didn''t know what to say because he also didn''t know what was going on and why his mother was suddenlyughing like a fool right now. He also wondered if Mu Chenyan''s words made his mother go crazy but that shouldn''t be. After all, his mother wasn''t that weak. If she was, she wouldn''t have been able to survive as the wife of Xia Songbei until now with how much of a bad image she had in their circle.

    Even if most people didn''t say it to her face, no one was a big fan of Lin Qiao in their circle either. They only gave her face because of Xia Songbei.

 Chapter 1352 Throw Her Out

    Chapter 1352 Throw Her Out

    Madam Lin Qiao really seemed to be broken as she looked up with a weird creepy smile on her face and said to Mu Chenyan, "That dead bitch raised a little bitch like you. What can anyone expect from her or from you? I said that back then I''d say it again, she didn''t teach you any manners. Or you were just unteachable from the very beginning. You can''t even respect your mother-inw, what else can one expect from you." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Respect is always a matter of give and take. If you won''t give me the respect I deserve as your daughter-inw, how can you expect some respect from me? You are hoping for too much. But it''s enough to show my respect that I haven''t punched you in the face yet even when clearly are disrespecting the woman I respect the most in this world," was Mu Chenyan''s response.

    "So what if I disrespect her?" retorted Lin Qiao. "Is she gonnae out of her grave to confront me? No, she can''t do it. Even if she could, I highly doubt she would do it for you. You, who took her life."

    Mu Chenyan clenched her hands until her veins protruded. It was visible to anyone how mad she was right now.

    Lin Qiao continued, "What? Do you wanna argue or deny it again? But this time you can''t do that. Do you wanna know why? Because it''s already a fact you can''t deny anymore. You have to ept my words. I said you''re like a curse to the people around you years ago and I stand by my words. Your oh-so-respectful godmother hit me for those words but now what? She also died loving you. Do you wanna take my son''s life too? Anyone who loves you is always met with bad luck. You want to take my son down too but I won''t allow this. I''ll never let you be in his life."

    Hearing those words from her, everyone''s expressions changed around her. Even Dr. Cai who had nothing to do with this situation felt a bit ticked off by those words. She tsked to herself as shemented, "Your mother really knows how to make cheap shots. I did not expect this."

    Saying that she took out her phone and sent a message to someone.

    Mu Chenyan didn''t respond to her this time. She just stared at her for a long time in silence while Xia Zhao moved from behind her with his eyes filled with rage right now. He did not expect his mother to go that low just to win in an argument. His impression of his mother was once again refreshed and he didn''t know if he was really surprised or he had expected this much from her.

    "Mind your words, mother!" said Xia Zhao.

    "What?" shot back Lin Qiao. "Did I say anything wrong? I don''t think so. Ask her. Am I wrong? She knows it deep down that I am right. She is nothing more than a bad luck. Those who loved her were the real unfortunate ones because all she brought them was a downfall that led straight to their deaths."

    Before Xia Zhao could continue to argue with her, Mu Chenyan held his hand to stop him. She sighed at Lin Qiao, "You know, I have never been able to understand why you''re so bitter in life. But I guess, it''s only because you have never been satisfied with what you had and always had your eyes on what others had. Your cheapments only show how cheap your mind is. It won''t affect me. I am not that easily broken. I don''t really want to even stand here and talk to you because it''s making me question my own intelligence for even wanting to spend my time on a mentally challenged person like you. You can never get better. There is really no salvation for you."

    Lin Qiao harrumphed arrogantly, "I don''t need any salvation. You should worry about yourself. You who hase back to haunt my son''s life like a ck cloud! I''d never let you seed! You cheap hoof! You''re the real mentally challenged one here!"

    "I highly doubt that!" came a authoritative and aged voice from the end of the corridor. Soon, everyone could see an old man walking over towards them with a dozen people following him.

    Mu Chenyan looked at her Uncle Gou Danhong and then turned to looked at Dr. Cai who shrugged her shoulders in response. Mu Chenyan closed her eyes as she didn''t want to escte things. But then again, she didn''t start it and neither did she escte it. So, no one could me her for it.

    "Uncle!" called out Mu Chenyan in a small voice.

    Old Man Gou Danhong gave her a nce and shook his head at her, "So you do know I''m your uncle? Why don''t you call this when you need him?"

    "I didn''t think I did," was Mu Chenyan''s very honest answer to his question. She was used to being one man army. When had she ever felt the need to call anyone for a backup or help? That wasn''t even herst thought. Seeing how her uncle stared down at Lin Qiao who had went silent seeing him, she spoke again, "I can handle this on my own."

    "Stay quiet!" said Gou Danhong angrily to her and then looked at Lin Qiao once again. "You know what. I don''t think there is a need for me to even spent a minute on you. Talking is useless with you anyone. Mental patients should stay in the mental hospital. I don''t allow them to roam in my hospital threatening the safety of our patients and the visitors. Take her out of here." He was speaking to the security team that was following him. "What have you all been waiting for? Throw her out of here right this instant!"

    Lin Qiao stared at Gou Danhong in surprise as she did not expect that he''d treat her like this. After all, she was friends with his wife but now, he was actually insulting her like this in front of so many people. Especially in front of that Mu Chenyan!

 Chapter 1353 Ill Give You An Answer

    Chapter 1353 I''ll Give You An Answer

    "Brother Danhong, how can you treat me like this?" asked Lin Qiao. "Don''t forget that I''m friends with Lanhua! What are you gonna tell her after treating me like this?"

    "This is my hospital, I can do whatever I want," replied Gou Danhong. "You can tell Lanhua whatever you want as well. But even she can''t change my decision. You should be d that I''m the one doing it. Because this hospital is as much of Chenyan as it is of mine. She also has the right to make you disappear from here if she wants to and if she hasn''t done that yet, it only shows that she has been treating you very nicely until now but you clearly don''t appreciate it at all."

    "I didn''t say anything wrong!" yelled Lin Qiao. "You niece is a curse! You should also stay away from her. Why do you think Lanhua always doesn''t want her toe over to your ce? It''s because she also knows what kind of bad luck this woman is."

    Xia Hao also walked over and tried to stop the security as he said, "Uncle Hong, my mother is just worried about Dad and might have said something she shouldn''t have. Please, let it slide this once."

    Gou Danhong had no reaction when he heard his pleading. His eyes were on Xia Zhao as if waiting to see his response and his lips curled up a little when he realized that Xia Zhao had no such intention at all.

    "Brother," Xia Hao turned to Xia Zhao too. "Say something."

    "Your mother said so much that she has left me with no words now," replied Xia Zhao. "Don''t expect too much from me. Rather than wasting time here, you should go and see Dad. He is awake now."

    Xia Hao was left in a dilemma now. On one side was his mother and on the other side... Argh! Why was this happening to him? Did he make a mistake by calling his brother over to see their father? Where did he go wrong? He obviously knew that his mother had said something wrong. Something very wrong and he epted that she was the one in the wrong. But no matter what she was still his mother. He couldn''t condemn her like his brother too. There was no bond to speak of between his brother and his mother. However, he was really raised by his mother''s side. So, there was some love and attachment between them that he couldn''t just ignore or let go of.

    He was feeling so tired right now being stuck in between all of this.

    "Brother Danhong, I will sue your hospital for treating a patient''s family like this. I''ll make your hospital infamous. Mark my words!" shouted Lin Qiao.

    "Please do so," said Gou Jinjin who had been standing behind her grandfather silently until now. "But Madam Lin Qiao, before you do that, you''ll be getting a letter from ourwyer too. One for disrupting the hospital''s affairs with your hysterical act which has been recorded faithfully by our CCTV cameras. Two for all the verbal nonsense you just threw at my aunt. I assure you, I won''t let any of this slide."

    Lin Qiao was still shouting but getting annoyed, the security shut her mouth and dragged her out. Behind them, Mu Chenyan looked at her Uncle and then at her niece before saying, "You don''t have to do this." She didn''t say this to anyone in particr but she seemed to have said this to the both of them.

    "But we do have to," said Gou Jinjin. "She attacked not just you but also our hospital. I can''t let this go. I''m your niece and I''m equally stubborn. Besides, she indeed disrupted the hospital. This is the VVIP floor. We have important patients here. If I won''t do it, I''ll have to give them an answer for the disruption they had to face. After all, they came her to rest and recover in peaceful andfortable environment. We can''t just let anyone ruin that because of their status. We have to make a statement to let our patients know that we are very dedicated towards them."

    "All that formal nonsense could be tranted into; I''m petty. I want to hurt her."

    Gou Jinjin pursed her lips before smiling at her, "Well, you can say that too."

    "Uncle..."

    Before Mu Chenyan could say anything, Gou Danhong held up his hand. "Chenyan, don''t say anything to me right now. I''m sorry!"

    "For what?"

    "For not knowing what your aunt had been thinking about you. I always knew that she had some opinion towards you but I never thought her opinion would be so strong. I''m genuinely sorry for that." n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Why are you being so serious about it? I''m alright."

    "You might be but I am not," replied Gou Danhong. "I''ll give you an answer for this."

    "Uncle," Mu Chenyan held him back. "You''re old so is she now. I don''t think there is a point in digging up old matters. I don''t want you to do anything. I didn''t suffer any injustice in life. Do I look like I''d swallow it if I had been subjected to any injustice?"

    Gou Danhong stared at her in silence, not knowing how to face her. In fact, he had long been afraid to face her. He always felt guilty towards his own niece. He couldn''t bring her home to raise her because his wife didn''t want that. And in the end, someone with no blood rtion took his niece in and raised her better than he ever could. He didn''t know how was he supposed to face his sister in the underground. What would he tell her that he couldn''t even do anything for her one and only daughter?

    And now he was being told that his wife didn''t just dislike his niece but practically hated her. Why else would she speak such nonsense about her with a stranger? He had only one niece in this world and even she was like a thorn to his wife. Did he really do a mistake in understanding the woman who had been sleeping with him in the same bed for so long? Or did he see the signs and never took them seriously?

    No matter what it was, it was a fact that he hurt his niece.

 Chapter 1354 Why Would You Hide?

    Chapter 1354 Why Would You Hide?

    "You might not be feeling it, but I do," said Gou Danhong. "I don''t know if you are too big-hearted or what. How can those words not hurt?"

    "I''m not big-hearted," replied Mu Chenyan. "Everyone knows that. My heart is very small. It can''t amodate too many things or people into it."

    Gou Danhong gave her a small smile seeing her acting like nothing happened. He didn''t know if she was too good at pretending or if was he just unable to see through her. Because he refused to believe that those strong words didn''t leave any cuts on her heart. No matter how strong she was, some things would hurt anyone. And she was no exception.

    "By the way, Professor Gou, how do you have time toe here at this time?" asked Mu Chenyan clearly trying to divert the topic. Gou Danhong did see her intention but didn''t expose her. In fact, he went along with her and replied, "I have been here since noon. We had a conference that went on for too long. Right when it ended, I was about to leave when Jinjin came to tell me how my niece was being bullied in her own hospital."

    "I wasn''t bullied! I just didn''t wanna go too far because of this guy," said Mu Chenyan as she punched Xia Zhao''s arm who didn''t even flinch. Gou Danhong also looked at Xia Zhao and narrowed his eyes at him, "Sigh! I knew I''d see you with her again."

    "Thanks for rooting for us, Professor Gou!" said Xia Zhao.

    "That''s not what I meant," said Gou Danhong.

    "Really? It sounded like that though."

    "You don''t have to pretend with me," was Gou Danhong''s response. "As if I don''t know you at all. And did someone mishear or you are really married?"

    "We are married," answered Mu Chenyan.

    "Sorry for noting to you before getting married," added Xia Zhao respectfully.

    "I don''t have that much authority and I do know that. I''m sure you got permission from Brother Tianyu. And since he agreed, who am I to say anything in this matter. But, a heads-up would have been nice."

    "We just got married," said Mu Chenyan. "Uncle, don''t be so upset about it now. We literally got our marriage certificate today. This very afternoon."

    "Congrattions, Gugu!" said Gou Jinjin.

    "Thanks, Jinjin!"

    "So, who proposed who?" she asked.

    "I did, of course!" replied Mu Chenyan proudly. Seeing how Xia Zhao looked at her with a doting look, Gou Danhong took a breath of relief. It seemed he didn''t have to worry so much anymore about his niece. She wasn''t alone anymore. That was a real relief. He could at least go down in peace now.

    "And if I''m not wrong, it must be your random impulse to get married today too, right?" asked Gou Danhong.

    "Uncle, how do you know that?" asked Mu Chenyan in surprise.

    "Xia Zhao isn''t that impulsive and Brother Tianyu is a traditional person. It could only be you with your strange ideas."

    "Why does it feel like you just insulted me?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "No, it was just another form of praise for you."

    Mu Chenyan nodded in understanding, "Then thank you for the praise. And it was indeed my idea. I was gonna let you know about it."

    "When?"

    "When I''d remember about it," she replied honestly.

    "That''s so like you."

    "Gugu is still my Gugu! You are really someone who doesn''t follow the rules. I strive to be like you but I still fall short. I''ll try harder from now on," said Gou Jinjin with a newly ignited fighting spirit.

    Mu Chenyan patted her shoulder to tone down her fighting spirit as she said, "Dear niece, there is no need for that. There is literally no need for you to follow my footsteps. Be a leader, don''t be a follower."

    "It''s toote for that," was Gou Jinjin''s response. "Forget it, tell me more about the proposal?"

    Mu Chenyan looked at the time and said, "I''d love to tell you all about it but let''s do that another day. It''s quitete now. I''m tired from the whole day."

    Gou Jinjin bit her tongue and said, "Oops! I almost forgot. I am taking up the precious time of your wedding night. Sorry about that! Please be on your way! I''lle to find you another day to get all the details. In the meantime, I''ll seek justice for the disrespect you had to suffer from here tonight."

    "These young people say all sorts of things,"mented Mu Chenyan.

    "But Jinjin is indeed right. You should go now. We''ll meet another day," said Gou Danhong.

    "Okay, bye Uncle! Bye, Jinni!"

    "Bye, Gugu! Enjoy your bridal chamber!" N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Mu Chenyan gaped at Gou Jinjin who pursed her lips to suppress her smile right now.

    "I thought only my Elle had no filter on her mouth but it seems I was wrong. All these young people have wild thoughts," said Mu Chenyan as she held Xia Zhao and left the hospital with him. She continued to speak all sorts of things but didn''t hear a single response from Xia Zhao. So, she finally had to look at him and ask, "What is it? What are you thinking about?"

    "Has my mother asked to stay away from me before?" he asked.

    "Didn''t she always do that?"

    "Yanzi, don''t try to stall the question like you always do. I''m serious right now. All those unbearable words that she said to you today, she had said them before but you never even thought about letting me know about that? Why? Didn''t I deserve to know about this? Why would you hide it from me that she went to you and insulted you with such words that feel harsh to even my ears and I can''t even imagine what you must have felt listening to it all repeatedly. Had I known this..."

    "If you knew, things would only get moreplicated," she interrupted his words. Holding his hand, she looked into his eyes and continued, "I didn''t think it was worth it to let you know about this stuff."

 Chapter 1355 Till The Sun Comes Up

    Chapter 1355 Till The Sun Comes Up

    "It wasn''t worth it?" repeated Xia Zhao as he gave her an incredulous look. "I don''t even deserve to know this?"

    "It didn''t have anything to do with you," said Mu Chenyan. "So, I never thought about telling you about this."

    "Really?" he asked. "Why do I think there is more to it than you are telling me? It''s not like you keep things to yourself. You''d love to find reasons to beat me. Then why didn''t you take the chance to do so regarding this? Wasn''t it a very good opportunity to make me bow down before you?"

    Mu Chenyan licked her lips and took a deep breath, "And why would I do that?" She rubbed her temples before adding, "Fine. You want to know why I didn''te to beat you. It''s because my godmother didn''t let me do so. She said whatever your mother did has nothing to do with you and I should not let you know about it because it would only make the distance between you and your mother grow. She didn''t want me to be the reason for that distance. Even if my silence won''t fix the problems between you too, she still didn''t want me to add to those problems either and be a reason for you to hate your mother." She sighed to herself as she went on, "Besides, I never wanted to make you feel guilty for something that you didn''t do. And I knew if I told you what your mother has to say about me, it''d only make you feel guilty just like you are feeling right now."

    Xia Zhao took her into his arms and hugged her tightly saying, "Yes, I do feel guilty right now. I have never been this much embarrassed and ashamed of my own mother. I did not think she would use your worst memories to hurt you. But I would like to tell you, Yanzi, you are not a curse. Your parents'' death had nothing to do with you. Your godmother''s death had nothing to do with you too. You know that right?"

    Mu Chenyan felt a bit choked up and her throat burned but she still nodded and told him, "Indeed, I know that."

    "You don''t sound that believable right now," he remarked. "Is it because deep down you have started to believe in those words too?"

    "Why would I believe in those words?" she retorted. "But that doesn''t mean it doesn''t hurt when people say that whoever loves me only has one end and it''s death. Why? What have I done? I didn''t kill my parents. So, why am I med for it?"

    Xia Zhao could feel his chest getting damp from her tears and he felt even worse right now. He tried to soothe her emotions while his own were getting out of hand right now. "Yanzi, you just have to know that you have nothing to do with anyone''s death. If you had been bad luck, why would you have so many people who love you so much, me included? The people who love you do so willingly. So, you don''t have to think about the opinions of those who hate you. They have nothing to do with you. And their words should not get to you. Not even on a subconscious level."

    "You think I want them to affect me?" she asked. "It''s only that I have heard the same things so many times that some times I do get affected by such words. Even if you speak a lie enough times, it starts to resemble the truth. How can you me me for taking it to heart?"

    "I''m not ming you," said Xia Zhao. "I would never me you for anything and you know that very well. I''m just asking you to ignore these people and their opinions. You are everyone''s favorite and strongest Mu Chenyan. How can anyone get to you?"

    "I wasn''t gonna let this get to me. But one thing your mother did say right. When thest time she said those words, my godmother was right there protecting me behind her and didn''t let me say a word. She almost dislocated your mother''s jaw with her heavy-handed ps. You should be d that she didn''t get disfigured by my godmother. She was really mad that day and was out for blood. I had never seen her that mad. However, Zhao, she is not here anymore to protect me."

    "But I am here. Would you please let me protect you? I don''t need to hide behind you," he said sincerely. "I want to protect you too." n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "I know that. But I couldn''t let you do that earlier. No matter what kind of a woman she is, she is still your mother at the end of the day. It won''t look good if you go against her for me. I didn''t want things to get uglier than they already were at that time." She took a pause and added, "You better not let anyone know about what conspired here tonight. Especially not my Elle. It won''t end well if she knew. So, please, don''t let anyone know. Okay?"

    "Why are you still thinking about others? Think about yourself! You''re the one who got hurt the most tonight," he reminded her.

    Mu Chenyan hugged him tighter as she said, "Then you should heal me. Hug me all night and make me forget it."

    Xia Zhao coughed when he heard her say that, "And here you were saying that young people have gone wild. What do you have to say about yourself?"

    "I''m talking to my husband! Who has opinions?"

    Xia Zhao chuckled softly, "No one has any opinions. Come, let''s go home now!"

    "Yes, let''s go," she readily agreed. "We have already wasted so much of our wedding night. Let''s not waste it anymore. I should let everyone know not to disturb us since we have business until the sunes up."

    "Okay, there is no need for that," Xia Zhao stopped her from doing that with difficulty. She was quite persistent in letting everyone know about their ns for the rest of the night. But he didn''t think they needed to know such details.

 Chapter 1356 We Concluded

    Chapter 1356 We Concluded

    "How are the new assistants working, Chief?" Raelle put down the document she was going through when she heard Cloe''s random question. "Good!"

    Cloe stared at her when she responded that way.

    "What?" asked Raelle.

    "Have you gone soft or I was just not worthy of yourpliments?" asked Cloe straightforwardly because it did hurt her self-esteem when Raelle so easily evaluated those youngsters as ''good'' while she had to work so hard but could hardly hear ''eptable'' from Raelle.

    "I am still the same," replied Raelle. "At least, when ites to professionally. You see when you first came on a trial period to work with me, Yanyan asked me how I was liking your work and I told her, ''excellent'' at that time."

    Cloe was happily surprised to know this, "I was so highly evaluated?"

    "Why else would you be here? Did I look like I had the patience to cultivate someone for years?" asked Raelle.

    "But you''re always stingy when ites to me," she couldn''t hold back her grudge.

    "I didn''t want you to get inted with pride. See, because I was stingy, you became exceptional and irreceable from just excellent. My stinginess did all that."

    "Wow! You can really justify anything," marveled Cloe as she shook her head.

    "We are going to the HQs soon. Hopefully, you''re prepared for that."

    Cloe looked at her and snickered, "Chief, we are going to Country G for your wedding ceremony. Not for work. Are you forgetting it?"

    "We can take this chance to squeeze in time for a quarterly board meeting," said Raelle. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "HA! You are overthinking. I don''t think there is gonna be anything squeezing here and there. You are gonna be dressed in your bridal attire. Just y the role of the bride faithfully. Don''t let your thoughts wander or I''ll let your husband know that you''re thinking about having an affair with your favorite mistress!"

    "I have a mistress?" asked Raelle. "Why don''t I know that?"

    "It''s your work!" reminded Cloe. "If you hadn''t been so madly in love with Xian, I''d have actually thought that work was your first love too as I did for the longest time."

    "Even I know now that you can only fall in love madly once. And I already did with Xian. I don''t think it''s possible again."

    "You always said, never say never."

    "I did say that," agreed Raelle. "However, you''re not understanding my point. When you fall in love with someone, it''s always one of a kind. Think about it yourself. Is the love you had for your ex and the love you have for Cui Xukun the same? I doubt that."

    Cloe couldn''t argue with that at all. "For someone who has barelye to understand love, you surely have a lot of opinions."

    "I''m a very analytical and objective person. So, my opinions hold weight too. I don''t speak blindly because of emotions. It''s observations. You still haven''t gotten it."

    "I believe I''d never be able to get to your level of observation because I think sitting in the same room, in the same situation we both would be observing different things because of our different personalities, characters, and the importance we ce on that situation."

    "You are not that wrong either," said Raelle. "But I think your observation skills are a bit on the downfall these days," added Cloe.

    "And why is that so?" asked Raelle.

    "I have been running into you so many times since this morning but you did not notice anything," said Cloe.

    "If you''re talking about the additional ring on your ring finger than yes, I have noticed that. Only a blind won''t notice it when you have purposely waved at me, tried to handshake with me with your left hand knowing well that I won''t respond. Then you took a step further and put all these documents on my table with your left hand making sure that the angle of your ring is clear to my eyes. Even now, you''re drinking your coffee with your left hand. So, yes, Cloe. I am certainly not blind. I just did not feel the need to point that out on our working hours."

    "Damn, that hurts!"

    "Well, suck it up! I guess you must have mastered the trick of sucking it up after spending so long by my side."

    "I do know," replied Cloe. "But it''s so not nice to see me making a fool of myself and not saying anything."

    "First, I found it quite entertaining. Second, I knew you wanted me to ask so that you could show off but I just did not want to give you that satisfaction either. Third, I just don''t care enough about that ring on your finger!"

    "Woah! That hurts! That hurts a lot! Slow down! There is no need for so much attack in such a short time."

    "Well, I thought you needed to know that. Just as a reminder that I am still the same Raelle Xiang who doesn''t give a fuck about anything else when she is working."

    "Then I should be d I found you during the lunch break," said Cloe.

    "Yes. Certainly. If you had waited any longer, I would have let you brew your emotions till we clock out from work."

    "Well, you are indeed evil! What was I even expecting? Oh, that''s right. I was expecting a simple and in congrattions from you! My bad! I guess it was too much to ask for."

    "Congrattions, Cloe!"

    Cloe looked at her and sighed, "Thanks."

    "I hope you had fun with your proposal. I should congratte you for your efforts. Do let me know when you''re getting married so we coordinate the work during that period and allow you to have a long and happy vacation for wedding and honeymoon."

    "That''s more than I was hoping for. What''s gotten into you? From pure evil, how are you walking towards goodness? Don''t do that. It doesn''t suit you."

    "Henceforth, we concluded that you are just never happy with whatever version of Raelle Xiang you have to face."

 Chapter 1357 Three Birds, One Stone

    Chapter 1357 Three Birds, One Stone

    "That''s just how most humans are," said Cloe. "You''re the weird one here. Most humans are never satisfied in life."

    "And you think I am?" asked Raelle.

    "You seem like you are," was Cloe''s response. "Or maybe I should say that you just ept whatever life throws at you rather than questioning it like most people do. I have never seen you ming fate."

    "When a person focuses on the te right in front of his eyes rather than the pot ced in the middle of the table, everything bes easier to ept in life."

    "I don''t understand."

    "It means focus on what you have rather than what you can have. In the process of focusing on what we could have, what we have loses its brightness and value too. Don''t you agree?"

    Cloe nodded her head in agreement, "I do agree with this. Thanks for the reminder though." She took a pause to observe Raelle''s face before asking, "So?"

    "So what?"

    "Aren''t you curious about how I did it and when did I do it?" added Cloe.

    "I told you earlier, that I am not interested enough in the details. The final result is that you have the ring on your finger. I guess we don''t need to know more than that."

    Cloe sighed heavily when she heard Raelle''s response. "You are really... Forget it! I don''t think it''d do me any good to even share it with you because you''d becking the reactions I''m looking for. Anyway, considering that you are a special friend I wanted you to know that I got a yes. Since you know now, that''s enough."

    "That''s what I thought so," said Raelle.

    "You know normally a friend would suggest celebrating something so huge." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Ah! Good thing that I''m not normal," was Raelle''s reply which made Cloe''s lips twitch and she almost rolled her eyes right there and then but held herself back.

    "How about I take you out to celebrate? I don''t have anyone else to share it with. I''ll be the one paying, okay?" suggested Cloe.

    "You and I both know that I''m only stingy withpliments. I am never stingy with money. It''s not about who is paying. It''s about the fact that I have no desire to go out to celebrate."

    "Why?!" Cloe almost went up to hold her shoulders and shake her violently when she asked that. "Sometimes, you should be a good sport!"

    "I should be but I''ve been having too many family dinners. Too much trouble. I am tired of it all. So, I don''t wanna do it now."

    "We can do something else other than going for a meal," suggested Cloe.

    "For instance?" asked Raelle seemingly interested in this suggestion.

    "How about going to the escape room? Or arcade? Or we can y some tennis?"

    "That''s your idea of celebrating?" "What else? It''s not like you are gonna agree to go to a nightclub with me," said Cloe.

    "Yeah, that''s definitely a no but what made you think I''d be up for tennis?"

    "Right, you are not a physical sports person. How did I forget that?" Cloe knocked on her head as if reprimanding herself for forgetting something so important. "It''s difficult to look for activities that one can do with you. You won''t go to movies, you won''t agree with nightclub and even you did go to the nightclub, you won''t be dancing. What''s the point then? You won''t agree for night market randevouze and you also won''t y sports. What is one supposed to do with you? Can we go sky diving?"

    "No, seems rather pointless thing to do," said Raelle.

    "Oh my gosh! You''re making my blood pressure rise with you constant no! Your whole existence should have a big NO on it at this rate!"

    "You lost your cool rather soon," said Raelle.

    Cloe took a deep breath knowing that she really lost her cool but who could me her for that too. No matter how she had cultivated her patience, she was really frustrated by Raelle right now. It''s been a long time she found Raelle so troublesome and annoying. And here she thought things were changing. How could she be so naive to even expect that this devil could change? "If you kept this up, my excitement is gonna in vain and I''d no longer feel the need to even celebrate and I do perfectly know that''s your intention too. But guess what? I''m not giving up! I deserve this after giving my loyalty andpany to you for so long. The least you can do is to share my joy and sorrows with me. You have always been there to make me feel less lonely in my sorrows, why are you so difficult when ites to my joy?"

    "Because I really think you should look for someone else," said Raelle. "Isn''t it better to find someone who can have fun with you rather to catering to my likes and dislikes and my whims? Anyone would know what is the better choice. Howe it''s so difficult for you right now?"

    "Because what I want is you and not someone else," was Cloe''s response. "Do you understand what I mean? No one else can take your ce. There is no other Raelle Xiang."

    "That''s for sure," agreed Raelle. "There is only one masterpiece like me. Quite an anomaly too."

    Cloe wanted to rub her face but thinking about her make up, she held back her hand and only patted her jacket as if she was dusting off something from it. "Can you find a better time to be self-centred. We are talking serious things here."

    Raelle fixed her watch on her wrist before looking into her eyes, "Okay, I''ll stop annoying you now. Let''s be serious. Go and find that sister of mine to know when she is gonna be done with her proposal. If she has a yes too, we can add her into the mix and celebrate it together because I don''t wanna waste my time twice on the same thing. Oh wait! I think we can add that stupid bacheloratte party you all have in mind into the mix too. That way, we''d be hitting three birds with one stone."

 Chapter 1358 Over For You All

    Chapter 1358 Over For You All

    A vein ticked in Cloe''s temple right now so much that if she had some courage, she''d have liked to take that same stone from Raelle and smash it on her head. This woman was thinking of getting everything done all at once just so that she''d have to go through a ''troublesome'' experience only once. Cloe did not think Raelle would do that. Once again, she exceeded her expectations but then again, if she didn''t go above and beyond her imagination how would she be Raelle Xiang, no?

    Cloe touched her jaw which was aching all of a sudden, all because she felt a need to bite someone and by that someone, of course, she meant Raelle. God, if only she had a little bit more courage in her she wouldn''t be just standing here and listening to that nonsense.

    "You have got to be kidding with me," said Cloe.

    "I don''t do that and you are aware of that too," replied Raelle.

    "Then why else you are even saying this? You mean to say to bring in Xiang Wai too. I had to share my ring hunting with her, now I have to share my celebration too?"

    "Sharing is caring, isn''t that what you always love to say."

    "Thanks for throwing my words right at my face."

    "Pleasure is always mine."

    Cloe took a deep breath and added, "Chief, you are sick."

    "In my head. I know."

    Cloe was startled when she heard her epting that so easily without any obvious displeasure on her face.

    "Why are you so surprised? You have said that so many times in your head. It''s the first time you said it out loud but clearly, you never had good control of your facial expressions so it was easy to read you. Do you really think I have no clue about what opinion you have of me?"

    Cloe cleared her throat and said, "But you do have to agree with me on this."

    "I am agreeing, aren''t I?" asked Raelle. "But since I am sick, you should be cutting me some ck too. I just told you, that having too many gatherings has already messed up my mind. Don''t add more to it. I''m trying to just minimize these unnecessary things as much as possible before my wedding ceremony because I''d like to stand there with a smile and not with a scowl."

    Cloe looked at Raelle and said, "I never thought you''d do so much just to make someone happy. Clearly, you have no interest in weddings and even more so in all these tastings and photoshoots and all that. But you had been patiently going through it, I almost thought your core changed. It seems you are just too good at deception and even I couldn''t tell what you were really feeling. Sorry to add more to your trouble."

    "It''s okay. You said I''m a special friend. I can add some trouble into my life for you. But as I said, it''s better to get more things done in one shot. So, please, just go and get Major on this n. I''m not going out with herter."

    Cloe chuckled, "You clearly care about her more than you let on." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "You are talking too much."

    "I always do though," responded Cloe with augh. "Fine, I''ll ask Wai and coordinate with her. But don''t even think about adding your bachelorette party to this. That''s a separate thing and more people are involved in that too. If anything, I''d add your bridal shower into it too to wrap up things for you."

    "What''s a bridal shower?" asked Raelle. She didn''t seem to have heard about this one. This wasn''t in the wedding activities list, was it? And what do you even mean by bridal shower? What kind of a shower is this? She only liked sharing her showers with her husband and that made her think about this morning when she blocked Xian in the bathroom.

    "You''d know when it happens," was Cloe''s answer. She did not know what was going through Raelle''s head or she''d have been really shocked right now by the colorful thoughts her boss was having in the office. How very unlike Raelle to do so! But thankfully she didn''t know it and neither did she need to know it.

    "You all taking things too far for no reason. Come on! I''m technically not even a bachelor." Raelle thought they were taking this chance to squeeze in all the unnecessary activities just to annoy her just because she agreed to do it the right and borate way for Xian''s sake. But clearly, she didn''t have this in mind when she agreed!

    "We don''t care," was Cloe''s response. "I''m gonna go and call Wai. You can get back to your work now." She felt like she needed to get things done as soon as possible before her boss'' mood changed like the weather outside.

    "Aren''t you in a hurry? Take your time. Don''t rush her," said Raelle.

    Cloe gave her a smile which obviously had no good intention behind it. As if she didn''t know why Raelle wanted them to take their time. She was even resorting to dying tactics now. Cloe felt likeughing at what had be of Raelle Xiang who never had to follow others'' whims in life but was now pushed around like a marrionatte all because of a wedding ceremony.

    "I''ll avenge thisughter," said Raelle to herself when she watched her leave. So what if she was in a bind right now? She wouldn''t stay like this forever! Once she is free, she''d make everyone pay the price for pushing her around like this. And she even had it all nned as she opened the spreadsheet on herptop and added Cloe''s name to it along with how she was gonna deal with her.

    "HA! Do you all think I''ve fallen once I''m in love? Dream! I''d rise above this. For now, I''ll just act obediently to make my husband happy. That''s the only goal I have for now or it would have been over for you all."

 Chapter 1359 Fair Person

    Chapter 1359 Fair Person

    Cloe went out but before she could go back to her own office, she had to deal with some work. By the time she was done, it was already two hourster. She checked the time and then called Xiang Wai.

    "Hello! Who is it?" came Xiang Wai''s voice from the other side.

    "You didn''t save my number?" asked Cloe with a bit of anger that was hard to ignore in her voice right now.

    Xiang Wai pushed her phone away from her ear and looked at the screen. Seeing the caller ID, she cleared her throat, "Oh, if it isn''t the closest and most important asset of Raelle Xiang. How can I help you, Miss Cloe?"

    "You recognized my voice?" asked Cloe.

    "I have your number saved," answered Xiang Wai. "Why are you so ticked off over something so small? Anyway, why are you calling me right now? I didn''t think we were close enough to call each other."

    "I got a yes," told Cloe proudly. "I wanted to tell you how sessful my proposal was."

    Xiang Wai pursed her lips and asked, "Did you call to show off? I did not expect that from you."

    "I''m not calling for that," said Cloe. "I''m calling to give you a sense of urgency. We bought the rings together. You''re way behind me right now. Get things done. Your sister said she won''t go celebrating my engagement unless and until you also get a yes."

    "Raelle said that?" asked Xiang Wai looking particrly touched and warm.

    Cloe rolled her eyes since Xiang Wai couldn''t see her anyway on the phone call. But she still had to burst this bubble as she said, "Raelle Xiang isn''t that nice. She just doesn''t want to waste her time celebrating the same thing twice. So, she wants you to be done as well. That way we three can go to celebrate together."

    Xiang Wai sighed, "You could have let me stay in my bubble."

    "Can''t do. My Chief says reality checks are necessary in life. They keep you grounded and humble in life."

    "And you seem to follow your Chief''s words to the t. Don''t you?"

    "Of course, I do. She pays me, you know. And she pays me well. Like really very good." n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Thanks for calling me poor in your corporatenguage that I''m unable to understand."

    "My pleasure," responded Cloe. "But seriously, when are you gonna be done? I need to think about where to go to celebrate too."

    "You can n it however and whenever you want. Just let me know," answered Xiang Wai.

    "What? Are you ready for the grand proposal?" asked Cloe.

    "I have a yes too," replied Xiang Wai with clear arrogance and pride in her tone.

    "What? When did that happen?" asked Cloe in shock. "Why didn''t I hear anything about it?How did you do it? Share the details. I''ll share mine too. Anyway, your sister isn''t curious enough to listen to our excitement."

    "That''s something expected of Raelle, no?"

    "True," agreed Cloe. "But seriously, when did it happen?"

    "I''ll tell you when we meet. For now, bye-bye!"

    "Hey! Hey! What the hell! She hung up on me!" Cloe gritted her teeth. "These sisters are out for my blood today. Can''t they just be normal?" She hurriedly went to knock on Raelle''s door and as soon as she entered, she saw staff from the PR department in her office. "Is there anything?" asked Raelle. "If it''s not rted to work, let''s talk after work."

    Cloe nodded her head and backed off. But she had to hold this information in for a couple more hours. How was she gonna do that? She really wanted to share it with someone! Stupid Raelle and her stupid rules! Knowing that there was no other choice, she could only walk back to her office and get herself busy in work. Because she knew very well, only this way she could pass her time until the clock out time. Right when the clock hit five o''clock, she rushed to get to Raelle''s side and panted from running this distance.

    "Your physical endurance is detriorating. Or you''re just getting old. Either way, it''s not good," she heard from Raelle and this time, she didn''t hold back and rolled her eyes at her. After all, they were off work now, she could do whatever she wanted now! "What is so urgent that you have been sneaking nces at me during the meeting too? What is that you can''t hold in any longer?"

    "Why didn''t you tell me that your sister also seeded in her proposal? I almost made a fool of myself rubbing it in. It''s just that I''m thick skinned enough by now to not feel it anymore."

    "Who seeded?" asked Raelle.

    "Wai!"

    "She also got a yes?"

    "Apparently," replied Cloe. "Wait! You didn''t know?"

    "Nope!"

    "You should know that considering you guys live right next to each other. Why are you always so behind the trends?"

    "I''m the trend! Why should I follow others?" asked Raelle. "Besides, she had gone to the military academy after we came back from the ancestral home. She had to sign in to her new job and take over her duties. Even though there hadn''t been new students added, but there are still some things for her to do as the new instructor of the academy. So, it''s not odd that I don''t know about her life affairs. More so because I am not interested. And I don''t care either!"

    Cloe smiled widely when she heard that as if her wounded heart was finally soothed with those words. Seeing her strange smile, Raelle paused.

    "What''s up with that smile now?"

    "I''m just happy," replied Cloe.

    "Why?"

    "Why wouldn''t I be happy? I should be happy, no? Knowing that you don''t treat me any different from your sister. We both have the same status in your life. You don''t give a damn about what we are going through."

    "I am a very fair person," was Raelle''s answer to that.

 Chapter 1360 Inner Demon

    Chapter 1360 Inner Demon

    "This is a very stupid thing," said Raelle as she looked at the details regarding the bridal shower that she looked up online. She couldn''t even believe that she was looking up something like this online. "Who even came up with this very unnecessary thing?"

    "What are talking about all by yourself?"

    Raelle looked up from her phone at Hyson and then she looked around to see if she entered the right house. Well, she made no mistake. This was her home. Then what was he doing here?

    "What are you doing here?" asked Raelle to him.

    "Eating my cheese sticks," he answered matter-of-factly. "Ellie, are your eyes okay? Don''t scare me now. We are so close to your wedding. Don''t go blind at this time. Oh, wait! You are already blind in love. What irony!"

    "HA! HA! HA!" was Raelle''s nd response.

    Hyson didn''t mind it at all and continued to eat his yummy cheese sticks. "Why are you staring at my food? You know I won''t share. But you can ask for more from the kitchen and try them the sour cream dip. That''d make it even better."

    "Hyson!" called Raelle.

    "What?"

    "I asked what are you doing here?"

    Hyson pointed at Shui Koshing who was holding a game console in his hands and replied, "I came to y and Uncle Shing so kindly offered me food too. I couldn''t refuse."

    "Oh, daughter-inw," started Shui Koshing. "I was getting bored so I called Fai over for a game."

    "Oh," was the only response Raelle gave as she was about to ascend the stairs to go to her room.

    "Hey, wait!" called Hyson from behind. "You didn''t even answer me. What were you muttering to yourself just now? Care to share?"

    "Don''t want to," replied Raelle. "What can you do about it?"

    "Of course, I can''t do anything to you. But I can keep asking and asking until your ears get tired of hearing the same question over and over again. You know I''m curious and you also know I''m stubborn and very persistent. I don''t get tired until I achieve my purpose."

    "Are you threatening me right now?" asked Raelle.

    "Maybe I am," replied Hyson.

    "Then let''s see who wins," said Raelle before going up.

    "Tsk. She didn''t fall for the trick," said Hyson.

    "Why are you tricking her?" asked Shui Koshing funnily. "Do you get some kind of a thrill going up against her?"

    "I feel like a warrior when I stand before her," replied Hyson dramatically. "You won''t understand that."

    "No, I actually do," said Shui Koshing.

    "You do?" asked Hyson in surprise. "Have you also felt like this before someone?" N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "I felt like a coward standing in front of my wife even before she became my wife. But I was a warrior and couldn''t ept that I always lost my courage in front of her. So, I repeatedly tried to stand my ground against her. But once we got married, well, I realized I lost the moment I fell in love with her."

    "I did not think this would be turn of the story," said Hyson. "Anyway, whoever falls in love first always loses. You should have held your ground, Uncle Shing."

    "You kid, I''m really looking forward to your love story. I''d love to see you holding your ground."

    "Why is everyone after me?"

    "Who asked you to annoy everyone?" retorted Shui Koshing. "But you all really need to stop worrying about me. I am not looking for love," said Hyson.

    "Who does?" asked Shui Koshing. "I was raised as the heir of my family. From morning untilte at night, all I had around me were books, extracurricr activities, and documents from office to train myself early. Was I looking for love? No! I barely had time to breathe. I was suffocated. But then one day I saw her in the library with her eyes closed basking in the sunlight that fell on her face through the window right by her side. I can still remember the name of the book she had in her hands or even the style of the pendant she wore that day. I felt like I could breathe for once. So, dear Fai, no one goes looking for love. It justes to you at the most unexpected time of your life. Sometimes, you''d be dying and it''de as your salvation. Sometimes, it''de to hold your hand in need only to pull you into the eternal hell. Ites in all forms and ways."

    "You know what all that sounds like to me, Uncle?" "What?" asked Shui Koshing.

    "All you people with experience in love has glorified love so much that it almost feels like a trap to me now. I feel like you are ying a evil game by making others believe in love."

    "Why?" Shui Koshing seemed incredulous. "I bought a shirt from online shopping site. I hated that experience and told myself to never do it ever again. That''s how bad the shirt I received was. But do you know what I did? Instead of writing a bad review, just like all the other reviewers, I gave it a five star. Why should I be the only one wasting my money? Others should also go through this thrilling experience."

    Shui Koshing coughed when he heard that from Hyson. He did not how to react right now. He was not expecting such a turn in the story. "That''s bad."

    "I know. It was one of the times when I let my inner demon control my thoughts. But guess what? It was fun and quite fulfilling for a split second until the guilt kicked in. However, my point is that you all people with love experience feel like those evil reviewers to me who purposely give five stars just to make others suffer too like they did. That is why I''m not falling for your words." He looked genuinely convinced with his own reasoning that he came up with. He looked so convinced that it was hard to shake his beliefs right now.

    "I finally understand why or how you had been able to stay so persistent with your ideas until now," said Shui Koshing as he patted his shoulder with a speechless look on his face.

 Chapter 1361 Under Attack

    Chapter 1361 Under Attack

    Shui Koshing sighed to himself as put down the game console in his hands and said, "I am actually very curious about something."

    "About what?" asked Hyson as he unceremonially bit into the cheese sticks he had in his hands. "About what goes in that head of yours," said Shui Koshing. "I really want to see the world from your eyes for once. It seems like a whole different kind of world when you speak of it. I feel like you and I have been living in two different worlds all this time. That''s what makes me curious to know what the world is actually in your eyes."

    Hyson put down the te and took the napkin to wipe his hands as he looked at Shui Koshing, "Uncle Shing, the truth is, we are all in the same world but we all make a different world for ourselves with our own choices and our perception. I''m not alone whose world is different from yours. Have you sat down with your daughter-inw ever to discuss this? I assure you, the way she sees the world is even more bizarre than I do."

    "I have had an idea of that too," answered Shui Koshing. "But as I said, I''m just curious about this different world you guys see."

    "Curiosity is good," said Hyson.

    "Is it though? If it was, why would people say that curiosity killed the cat?"

    "Having no curiosity makes life really dark. Curiosity is a fun factor in your life. Something to look forward to."

    "I''ll keep that in mind," said Shui Koshing.

    "Hey!"

    Both of them looked upstairs at Raelle who was standing against the railing looking at them. Her eyes settled on Hyson as she said, "I believe you came here to add fun into my B¨¤''s boring daily life. Right? Don''t talk nonsense with him here. Do your job well of entertaining him."

    Hyson''s lips twitched as he felt a nerve ticking in his brain at the moment. He red at her as he asked, "Is my job entertaining people?"

    "That''s what you always say," replied Raelle to him. "Am I wrong? I don''t think I remember it wrong though."

    "You''re not wrong," gritted out Hyson. "But when you speak of it, it sounds like you''re calling me a clown."

    "Oh," was the only response he received from Raelle. As nd as ever and as annoying as ever too!

    "Oh?" repeated Hyson. "Wow! You are just... Go away! Go back to your room. If you kept looking at me, I''m gonna end up wanting to throw a dagger at you!"

    "First, find a dagger and learn to aim," was Raelle''s response.

    "Argh! Ellie! You''re testing my patience now!"

    "How interesting! Isn''t that what I have been doing since we met? Why the sudden outburst now? Isn''t it toote?"

    "I think your emotions are in an overdrive, you should really go back to your room, Ellie!"

    "Is it my emotions or yours that are in overdrive right now?"

    Hyson turned to look at Shui Koshing as he asked, "Did you see this, Uncle Shing? This is your beautiful daughter-inw. She is really out for my blood today. I didn''t even do anything to get on your nerve yet! But you are clearly getting on my nerve now. Be careful!"

    "If I lived a careful life, I wouldn''t be Raelle Xiang. Am I right?" asked Raelle. "And stop being a baby. If Yanyan is not around, you''re looking for help with my B¨¤. How can you be such a tattletale?"

    Shui Koshing pursed his lips trying to suppress hisughter right now seeing the two of them going back and forth. But he had to say, it was his first time seeing his dauughter-inw really going for blood with just her words. "Who the hell annoyed you today?" asked Hyson in a loud voice.

    "Keep your voice down," said Raelle. "You know I don''t like this."

    Hyson took deep breaths. Long and deep breaths. He kept doing it for a full minute before he calmed down to face Raelle, "I''m really sad."

    "It''s a good thing to experience this sadness sometimes too," was Raelle''s response.

    "I clearly am not your target. I''m just taking the burnt of the mes that someone else set. Why don''t you just tell me who did it? I''d love to get back to that person!" n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    It was clear that he could tell that someone else got on Raelle''s nerve but he was the one who decided toe in front of her at that very moment to let her fire her shots at him. Of course, going along with everyone''s ns were not really setting well with Raelle right now. Also, for some reason, she was just finding Hyson''s face not to her liking today. So, he was under attack for this simple reason.

    "Raelle, how was your day?" asked Shui Koshing as he tried to divert her attention. "Xian would bete today since his meeting is runningte. So, let''s wait for him together, okay?"

    "I know, B¨¤," replied Raelle to him. "By the way, Mr. Know-It-All!"

    "What?" Hyson replied since he knew she was addressing him right now.

    "Do you know that my sister has proposed to your brother already?" Hyson paused when he heard that question and looked at her, "What? When did that happen?"

    "Oh, so there is something that you don''t know as well. Quite behind on your news. What a shame to the name of Mr. Know-It-All!"

    Hyson breathed out the breath he was holding in and smiled at her, "Betterte then never, right? Uncle Shing, I''m gonna go now. Thanks for your hospitality!"

    Seeing him rushing out like his tail was on fire, Shui Koshing looked confused, "Why did he run so fast? Did he get scared of you, Raelle?"

    "It''s not that easy to scare him. If it was, we wouldn''t be here today. It''s just that he wants all the details now that he knows that Xiang Wai proposed to Zhai Yanjun."

    Shui Koshing nodded his head, "Then, daughter-inw, I''d also go and hear about this. I''lle back to share the details with youter."

 Chapter 1362 Protect Your Sister

    Chapter 1362 Protect Your Sister

    "It seems everyone is curious," muttered Raelle to herself as she went back to her room.

    On the other hand, Hyson was the first one to run back home, and behind him, Shui Koshing also came to the Xiang Manor. "Opa, where is Major?" asked Hyson.

    Grandfather Xiang put down the tablet that he was using to read the news and also put down his sses. He looked at the very excited Hyson and raised his brows, "What did she do to make my little prince look so excited?"

    "She got engaged without letting a word out," replied Hyson. "Tell me where she is!" N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "She did what?" asked Grandfather Xiang shaking his head. "I don''t know what you younger generation are up to. I can''t even keep up with you all. She came back and went to her room to change clothes. She''d be down in a minute. Just wait here."

    Hyson tapped his foot on the floor repeatedly as he was very impatient right now. He wanted to go and knock on Xiang Wai''s door but he held himself back. "Why is she taking so long?"

    "Fai, you are too curious for your own good. Be patient," said Shui Koshing. "Anyway, where is your mother?"

    Hyson looked at Shui Koshing, "You don''t know where she is?"

    "I should know?" asked Shui Koshing.

    "Take a wild guess, Uncle. I''m pretty sure it''ll hit the mark."

    "That means she went out with your dad. Don''t they do that too much these days?" asked Shui Koshing. "They go out every single day. It''s not like they are young anymore. Why do they have so many things to do together."

    "How would I know?" retorted Hyson. "Anyway, I''m not interested in knowing either. Mum is an adult, she has her own life, her own ideas, and she knows what''s right and wrong for her. I can''t control her. I couldn''t do it before, can''t do it even more now. If I could really control anything, I''d have loved to make her give up on the hopeless love of hers."

    "But the truth is Fai, that hopeless love is now very hopeful and a reality too. This is why they say, hope is very necessary in life. Very very necessary. It can be a game changer in life."

    "What are you talking about?" asked Xiang Wai as she came down in her loungewear. "Uncle Shing, you''re looking younger and younger. Any secrets for this renewed youth?"

    "Hope!" answered Shui Koshing. "To both your questions, the answer is hope. We were discussing about how hope is very important in life. Just look at me, I''m living a hopeful life these days and I''m feeling like all my hidden ailments have mysteriously vanished."

    "This is a very interesting point," nodded Xiang Wai to herself. "But what are you hopeful about?"

    "About everything," replied Shui Koshing. "You see, my daughter is no longer as bitter as she used to be and is willing to talk to me, sit with me, eat with me, and she even invited me out to have fun. And my son is no longer lonely and sad and looking like a lifeless zombie. He is so full of love again. More than ever. Now, I''m hoping to wait for my second spring."

    Hyson coughed and Xiang Wai also looked at him strangely.

    "What?" asked Shui Koshing.

    "Nothing," said Xiang Wai. "It''s your choice and your right to fall in love again."

    "Exactly! No one stipted that you need to live alone," added Hyson.

    Shui Koshingughed out loud at their reaction and said, "You both are dumb! When I said waiting for my second spring, although I do mean falling in love again, however, this love is reserved for my granddaughter."

    "Ohhhh..." said Xiang Wai and Hyson simultaneously before looking at each other and then looking away.

    "Wait! You distracted me," said Hyson. "You, Major, are a real thief!"

    "Huh?" Xiang Wai was dumbfounded when she heard his usation. "What did I do?"

    Hyson took her left hand in his own and saw that the ring was missing, he frowned. He would never doubt that Raelle lied to him about something like this. She never even lied about minor things much less about something so major. Knowing this, he asked, "Where is the ring?"

    The question came out of nowhere and in a daze, Xiang Wai pulled out the ring from around her neck and said, "Here!"

    "You proposed, I heard."

    Xiang Wai paused and then looked at Shui Koshing and then at her grandfather who were also looking back at her attentively and eagerly waiting for her response. Clearing her throat, she responded, "Yeah, I did."

    "So where is the grand proposal you promised that I''d witness and stopped me from going back to work? I clearly stayed because you said I''d be a part of it!"

    Xiang Wai bit her tongue sheepishly, "Hehe... Little brother, hear me out!"

    "I don''t want to! You lied."

    "I didn''t!" said Xiang Wai.

    "Then you didn''t keep your words. Isn''t that simr to lying? No, it''s even worse!"

    Xiang Wai rubbed her forehead, "Would you let me speak?"

    "What more do you have to say, dear sister?"

    "I didn''t think you''d call me sister but this is clearly not a good moment to focus on this," muttered Xiang Wai. "Let me exin myself first. I have a very good reason for what happened. If you just give me a chance. You''d understand me."

    "You sound like you''re making excuses," said Hyson seriously.

    "You of all people should know that no one in our family knows how to make excuses. We always have a reason behind whatever we do. You can''t just condemn me without knowing the whole truth. Right now, you are my little brother. Stand on my side and listen to me. You''re supposed to protect your sister. That''s what brothers are for."

    "You''re getting too sentimental now, Major!" said Hyson and crossed his arms as he stood in front of looking at her. "Fine. I''m giving you ten minutes to exin yourself. You better have a well and good reason for wasting my days."

 Chapter 1363 The Sound Of The Devil

    Chapter 1363 The Sound Of The Devil

    Hyson looked at her waiting for the exnation and even held up his wrist to tap on it as if indicating that the time was ticking. Ironically, there was no watch on his wrist though. But it didn''t matter to him as long as he got his message across.

    Seeing how rushed Xiang Wai looked to exin herself in front of him and get his pardon, Grandfather Xiang found it really funny. These two liked to create the most trouble in the house and yet here they were now. "It happened just today," said Xiang Wai right from the start. "I only meant to visit Zhai Yanjun for a while after I was done with my own things. But when I got to his training camp, I saw something that got on my nerves and I lost all my reason."

    "You''re speaking as if you saw him having an affair," snickered Hyson.

    "He dares?!"

    "Exactly! He doesn''t dare," replied Hyson. "So what could possibly get to you?"

    "There was this girl hanging on to him like a ko," gritted out Xiang Wai.

    "Oh, it''s really a scandalous affair!"

    Seeing the exciting glint in Hyson''s eyes, Xiang Wai had to take a deep breath to calm herself down. "It''s not an affair. It''s just an annoying girl who keeps hovering around himtely trying to entice him into making a mistake. Thest time I clearly warned her off but she still didn''t listen or take my words seriously. Seeing how she was ready to pretend like she knew nothing, I decided to take that chance to propose."

    "You proposed to him in front of his whole battalion?" asked Hyson.

    "Yeah."

    Hyson gave her a slow p in response, "You''ve got some guts, Major!"

    "What? Did you think I''d chicken out in front of them? How is that possible? There is no such thing as fear in my life. If there was, I wouldn''t be Major Xiang Wai. I''d have been a Lieutenant Colonel by now if your best friend didn''t mess it up."

    "Rather than ming Raelle, you should reflect on your own reckless behavior. Your own performance was the reason you didn''t get the promotion. But be d you are getting a medal for it." Hyson couldn''t help defending his best friend when he was needed to do so. Buting back to the topic, he asked, "However, Major, putting all that aside, let me get this straight. You got impulsive and had an impromptu proposal because you''re jealous of a girl who was flirting with Zhai Yanjun. Am I getting that right?"

    "Yes, but..."

    Hyson held up his hand to stop her from saying more as he smiled at her, "Hence proven, you didn''t reflect on yourself. You''re still impulsive and reckless."

    Xiang Wai scratched the tip of her nose before saying, "Clearly, it''s your fault."

    Hyson pointed at himself, "Mine? How am I in this? I wasn''t even there. Why do you love to me everything on me?"

    "Because it is your fault!"

    "I won''t take this me."

    "But you have to," said Xiang Wai stubbornly. "On our hiking, it was your crow''s mouth that said something. Remember?"

    "I say a lot of things," was Hyson''s response. "How am I supposed to know what are you referring to?"

    "It''s when you said that I''m making so borate and grand ns but how do I know that they''d seed? After all, things happen unexpectedly in this world."

    Hysonughed, "I didn''t word it like that."

    "That was gist of it anyway. You have to take the me that your crow''s mouth ruined everything." n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Hyson did not want to argue with her so he said, "All''s well that ends well, no? It was all about putting a ring on his finger. You got it, in the end. Didn''t you? So, why think about it so much now?"

    "What about my ns?"

    "I did not force you or push you to do it so suddenly," said Hyson. "I''m already being nice by not arguing with you since it''s supposed to be a happy day for you and I respect that. Don''t force me to do something. Anyway, I''d also use you like a punching bag like Raelle just did to me."

    "Raelle used to as a punching bag?" asked Xiang Wai curiously. "Tell me more about it."

    "It''s better if you don''t ask," said Shui Koshing. "She was not in a good mood today and she did not hold back her punches either. I was feeling a bit bad for Fai just for a moment."

    "And here I thought you''re enjoying it too much, Uncle Shing," said Hyson sarcastically.

    "I was, not gonna lie," epted Shui Koshing as heughed. "But Wai, I don''t understand why you lost your calm and cool so easily. Don''t you trust Yanjun? He isn''t so easily swayed. You understand him so well. Besides, you''re such an amazing catch. Can the other girl even hold a candle in front of you?"

    "She can," started Hyson. "If she is sweet-mouthed, coy, looks cute, and is young too. Am I right, Major?"

    Xiang Wai stared at Hyson in shock, "How do you know? Were you there?"

    "I don''t have to be there to know what could threaten you," answered Hyson. "I''ve understood you enough to know what youck. And of course, you''d fear what you don''t have but the other person do. What if Zhai Yanjun likes that sweetness? What if he likes that flirting? What if he is into that tender and soft person?"

    Xiang Wai put her hands over her ears to block his voice as she yelled, "Why the hell do you sound like my inner demons? I swear, the voice of the devil in my head sounded the same at that time! It''s really you who messed up my n!"

    Xiang Wai picked up a cushion and threw it at him. Hyson dodged it easily and stuck his tongue out at her before taking the other cushion and throwing it back at her.

 Chapter 1364 Roots

    Chapter 1364 Roots

    "What storm swept through our home?" Xiang Weimin looked at the scattered cushions on the floor and even saw a few other things lying on the floor. He followed the noise and found Hyson and Xiang Wai going back and forth with their y. "Oh, the storm looks like this," was his thought at the moment. Now, it all looked very normal. So, he very indifferently walked towards his grandfather and greeted him along with Shui Koshing. He pointed at the two monkeys in the living room asking, "What happened now?"

    "Just enjoy the show," said Grandfather Xiang calmly. "You''d figure out soon enough."

    "I was not even there," came Hyson''s voice. "But then why were you in my head? You cast a spell!"

    "You just need an excuse to free yourself from the guilt of your impulsiveness," Hyson said to her. "You''re guilty because your mother spent hours helping you n for your perfect proposal but you ruined it before you got there."

    "Damn it! I hate it when you''re right," said Xiang Wai as she lost her energy and sat down with her head buried in her hands. She was really feeling guilty for being impulsive. And to be honest, she had never felt this guilt ever before because of her impulsiveness and she had done worse. Way worse. "What am I supposed to tell her?"

    "The truth," said Hyson. "Don''t give me that look. You have no other option avable. Truth is always the right choice. First, you are bad at lying. Second, you are even worse ating up with excuses. Third, that''s your mother and she''ll understand. Trust me, she will."

    "You don''t even know my mother," was Xiang Wai''s response.

    "Yeah, but I am very familiar with her 60-70% replica named Raelle Xiang. So, I think I am very familiar with your mother too." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "What did you do this time, Wai?" asked Xiang Weimin as he couldn''t stop his curiosity.

    "Ge," called out Hyson. "Your sister is engaged now. Won''t you congratte her?"

    "Huh?" Xiang Weimin was dumbfounded. "When did that happen?" Before anyone could answer him, he held his forehead as he had a realization, "No wonder I have been getting so many messages congratting me. I was wondering what even happened. Now, I know. They were congratting me for my sister''s engagement. But howe they knew before me?"

    "Because your sister does great things," said Hyson. "She proposed right in front of the whole battalion. By now, everyone you know or don''t know even knows that your sister is engaged. Only we are theters."

    "There was nothing wrong with what you just said but I really felt like you just insulted me," said Xiang Wai. "You have a way with words, Fai."

    "Thanks, sister!"

    "Call me sister-inw," she said.

    "Take sister if I''m even willing for this alone," said Hyson with a smile that clearly didn''t look like one.

    "That''s an ugly smile. It doesn''t suit you."

    "Okay, you both please stop," said Xiang Weimin. "You''re engaged, we got it. Now what?"

    "Now what?" repeated Xiang Wai.

    "Now what?" Hyson also repeated.

    Grandfather Xiang and Shui Koshing shook their heads looking at these headless flies. "Congrattions, Uncle." Grandfather Xiang looked at Shui Koshing who went on, "Your eldest granddaughter is also getting settled. Your family''s daughters have all finally found their new homes."

    "What am I supposed to do with the sons of this family?" asked Grandfather Xiang. "One grandson skipped the marriage and straight got himself a son. Do you know what that means? There is a high possibility that this grandson would not be finding a partner for himself since he already has a son now. And the other grandson is even unable to understand what he wants in his life. Whether it''s career, or his life partner, he has no idea about anything."

    "At least, Fai is living every single day to the fullest," said Shui Koshing. "You should also look at the positivity like he does. Since he is willing to live each day like its thest and have the most of it, why are you worried? At the very least, he is happy even if he is just drifting aimlessly."

    "Koshing, humans are not like the wind that should just drift everywhere without a home. Even history tells us that humans are more like trees. We like to take roots in a favorable soil and spread our branches and thrive. We can enjoy swaying with the wild wind but eventually, wind cuts us down. I''m not sure if it''s really good for Fai to be so aimless in life."

    For a moment, Shui Koshing didn''t have an answer for him. With a sigh, he said, "Uncle, I think you''re overthinking and stressing too much over nothing. Let''s look at Chenyan. Didn''t you always worry about her future and what she''d do? Anyway, she didn''t have any big aims in life for a long while either. But now, she found love and got married. She is even looking forward to her life."

    "With Chenyan, at least I knew that there will always be a person who''d keep worrying about her and stay behind her even if not beside her. But Fai is a different story. A very different story."

    "All of us have our own fates," said Shui Koshing. "No one believes in this statement more than I do. You can see it from my life experience. I thought Qian Yin could never be my fate, but fate yed with me she became mine. Later, when I thought she was fate, the same fate yed with me again and took her from me. So, it''s all the game of fate. You and I can worry about it but what''s the point when the final winner will be the fate?"

    "You''re right," said Grandfather Xiang. "Maybe I''m just too old and loves worrying about anything and everything. These youngsters know what they want in their life and how they are living. Whether they are happy and satisfied or not, only they would know. After all, only person drinking the water would know if it''s warm or cold."

 Chapter 1365 Go And Change

    Chapter 1365 Go And Change

    A few dayster, Xiang Wai and Cloe did show up at Raelle''s door to take her out to celebrate their big news. It happened to be Shui Xian who first met the two of them and looked them up and down before saying, "Wee, sister-inw and pseudo-sister-inw."

    "Why am I pseudo-sister-inw?" asked Cloe to him.

    "Because I said so," he replied with a smile.

    "Was that supposed to be funny?"

    "Did it make youugh?" he asked.

    "No."

    "Then clearly, it wasn''t a joke." Shui Xian went to stand below the stairs and called out, "Baby, your guests are here."

    "Coming!" responded Raelle from above.

    "You don''t look very happy seeing us here," Xiang Wai pointed out.

    "Am I supposed to be happy seeing you guysing here to take my wife away?" responded Shui Xian.

    "Someone''s really not in a good mood,"mented Cloe. "But Master Xian, how about you just also have a boys'' night? Wouldn''t that be a good idea or you''re feeling too old for that?"

    Shui Xian gave her a look, "You don''t have to remind me that I''m older than my wife."

    "Okay."

    Raelle soon came down before Shui Xian could lose his cool looking at these two who came to steal his wife from him. As if he already had a lot of time to spend with her. Seeing the way Raelle was dressed, Cloe pointed at her and asked, "You''re not wearing that tonight, are you?"

    Raelle looked down at herself and asked, "What''s wrong with this?"

    "Are you going to work?" asked Xiang Wai. "Would you wear this if it was a date night with your husband?"

    "But it''s not a date night with my husband," replied Raelle.

    "But it''s still a date night. Date night with friends," said Cloe. "And you''re clearly discriminating. Here I had the impression that you are a very fair person."

    "No, this won''t do. Let''s get you changed into something appropriate," said Xiang Wai.

    "Says the woman whose whole wardrobe is 90% jeans and white t-shirts or ck tank tops," responded Raelle to her.

    "Ouch!" came from Cloe as she looked away.

    Xiang Wai licked her lips andughed, "Still, I was careful and attentive enough to find this gorgeous dress from the bottom of my closet."

    "That is something Yanyan bought. You have no contribution to this. And it wasn''t at the bottom as well," said Raelle. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "You don''t have to tear down my stage like this."

    Shui Xian hugged Raelle''s shoulders and said, "Baby, you can tear whatever you want. I''ll have your back."

    "Brother-inw, say less. Don''t forget it''s gonna be us standing at the door to block your way at the wedding before you can get to the bride. You wouldn''t want us to make it even more difficult to get to her now, would you?"

    Shui Xian red at Xiang Wai, "Oh? Let''s see how far you guys can go at the wedding. No one can stop me from getting to my wife. No one!"

    "We''ll see about that," said Xiang Wai. Then she turned to Raelle, "Come on and show us your closet. We really aren''t taking you out on this. It''d look like you''re on an official business or something. You don''t have to look so mature and steady. It''s girls'' night out, you gotta look smoking hot and drop-dead gorgeous."

    Because of their constant badgering, Raelle had to take them to her closet. Looking at the rows and rows of thetest designs, Xiang Wai gave her sister a look, "With all this, you still picked up this to wear? How blind are you?"

    "Talk less or I''ll throw you out of here," was Raelle''s in response.

    "Try not to touch things randomly too, Wai," added Cloe. "Or you might trigger your sister''s mysophobia."

    "I don''t have that," said Raelle.

    "Raelle Xiang doesn''t like others touching her things," reminded Cloe. "That sounds like a mysophobia to me."

    "I mean it only for my personal things," said Raelle. "You can touch whatever you want here. These are all just cold things, don''t mean all that much to me."

    "She means she''ll just ask someone to clean up the whole closet once we are out of here," Cloe rephrased her words for her.

    Raelle did not deny that because she really was gonna do something like this. She had nothing against them and it was already a huge concession that she allowed them to step inside her closet right now. It doesn''t happen for just anyone either.

    "My sister is just too territorial," said Xiang Wai. "You are very simr to a wild beast. Once there is smell of foreign forces in your territory, you won''t be able to stay calm unless that smell is removed. Right?"

    "Thank you forparing me with a wild beast," replied Raelle. "Now, hurry up. There is so much here. Can''t pick a dress?"

    "I found it!" said Xiang Wai as she took out a navy blue sequin bodycon mini dress which was still packed in wrapping. "This is the one. This has to be the one. Go and change," she pushed it to Raelle who looked at the dress in her hand and than at her sister.

    "Are you sure about this one?"

    "Yes, I am," replied Xiang Wai. "Don''t chicken out now. Go already!"

    Seeing how Raelle after a moment of struggle did go to change into this dress, Cloe gave Xiang Wai a thumbs-up in appreciation.

    "What is that for?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Chief doesn''t wear such clothes most of the time," said Cloe. "She is really willing to make some concessions. It seems she really doesn''t want to disappoint us both which is a remarkable achievement on it''s own."

    "It''s okay for my sister to be a bit human."

    "You just called her a wild beast," reminded Cloe.

    Xiang Wai cleared her throat saying, "I was just stating the obvious. How is it my fault? I said what I observed. No one can say anything about it. And I was not wrong either."

 Chapter 1366 Nice Discussion

    Chapter 1366 Nice Discussion

    In a few minutes, Raelle stepped out in the sequin mini dress. Dazzling sequins sparkled atop a stretch knit lining as it shaped a sultry V-neckline and sleeveless bodice that hung from skinny, adjustable straps. Both Xiang Wai and Cloe were momentarily dazzled by the sight before them. The fabric gathered at her fitted waist flowed into a sexy bodycon mini skirt with a faux wrap and asymmetrical hem.

    The mini skirt showed off her long legs and her beautiful body lines that she rarely showed off. It also gave her a more youthful and refreshing aura. "Okay, let''s go with these ck suede ankle strap heels," said Xiang Wai as she picked up the heels and ced them before Raelle. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "And we have this ck beaded clutch too," added Cloe as she brought it to Raelle.

    "I think I saw a beautiful pearl gold choker too," said Xiang Wai.

    "Both of you," started Raelle. "What are you doing? Are we celebrating you or me tonight?"

    "We are celebrating us," replied Xiang Wai and Cloe simultaneously.

    "You might know since you have never done this but on a girls'' night, getting dressed together is also a ritual that can''t be missed," said Cloe.

    "You could just say I have no friends to do this with," said Raelle.

    "You know that already, I wanted to work it out better," responded Cloe. "How about adding a little touch to your makeup and your hair."

    "We aren''t done yet?" asked Raelle.

    "No way!" said Xiang Wai as she helped Raelle curl her hair into loose and wavy curls while Cloe added a bit more color to her eye makeup.

    "Damn! If I put this look out on a magazine cover, it''d be an instant hit," said Cloe. "Sometimes, I forget how beautiful you are. And considering that your beauty is so right your face kind, it''s very difficult to ignore. So, you can imagine how bad your personality is to make people overlook your beauty."

    "I don''t think I needed to hear this," said Raelle. "But thank you for your kind words. I appreciate your two-cents which were very unnecessary."

    Cloe smiled at her and so did Xiang Wai. Then she looped her arm with Raelle and the other with Cloe as they went out. "Let''s dazzle everyone, girls!"

    Shui Xian almost poured the hot tea on his clothes when he looked at his wifeing down with the other two women. But he obviously filtered them out since his eyes were just able to take in the sight of her wife who was really looking the definition of smoking hot and drop dead gorgeous as Xiang Wai earlier spoke of. He sucked in a cold breath as he smiled widely, "My wife is out to break some hearts."

    "Isn''t she looking beautiful?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "She always looks beautiful," replied Shui Xian.

    "Why are you so boring?"

    Shui Xian shrugged his shoulders nonchntly at her and ignoring the other two, he came to stand in front of Raelle and kissed the top of her head softly as he said, "Have fun. Call me when you''re bored and tired. I''ll bring you back home. Okay?"

    Raelle observed the way his eyes obsessively looked at her and raised a corner of her lips slightly before nodding her head, "I''d do that."

    "Woah! Where did these beauties came from?" Shui Koshing looked at the three woman and then his eyes settled on his daughter-inw, "Son, you should count your blessings for having such a beautiful wife."

    "You have said that too many times, B¨¤," reminded Shui Xian.

    "I''ll never get tired of saying that," said Shui Koshing. "Are you girls going out?"

    "Yes," replied Xiang Wai.

    "Good! It''s good to be young,"mented Shui Koshing. "Go ahead and have a st tonight. This night will nevere again. So, have the fun of your life." Then he turned to his son, "And you sit over there and keep worrying about how many hearts have been hit by your wife''s beauty."

    Shui Xianughed in response, "I don''t have to do that. No matter how many hot-eyed guys are out there, my wife''s eyes would only settle on me. Besides, she has a very small heart and only I can fit in there. Isn''t that right, Baby?"

    "So narcissistic,"mented Xiang Wai.

    But Raelle still responded to him with, "It''s not far from the truth." And those words widened Shui Xian''s smile as he touched her head and added, "I know. You can enjoy yourself. But don''t let these two drag you around." Then he looked at Xiang Wai and Cloe, "You both better take care of my wife. She isn''t used to people and crowds. Don''t make her ufortable. You made her wear a disco night dress and I''m pretty sure you''re gonna pull her to a nightclub. But choose your nightclub wisely. As I said, don''t let her be ufortable. Don''t challenge herfort zone or I''m gonna call both your boyfriends to have a nice discussion in a boxing ring."

    "That''s a threat, right?" asked Cloe.

    "It sounds like one," replied Xiang Wai. "Brother-inw, my sister isn''t a kid. You don''t have to be so strict about this. We of course know what we are doing."

    "I highly doubt your words, sister-inw," responded Shui Xian. "You have a very bad reputation when ites to things like making decisions in life."

    "I''m offended," said Xiang Wai.

    "I don''t care," replied Shui Xian. "I only know that my wife isn''t used to these activities. If she is willing to give it a try for you, don''t make her regret it. That''s all I am asking for. That isn''t too much, is it?"

    Shui Koshing shook his head and rolled his eyes at his son before dragging him inside saying, "Okay, okay. Don''t be so long-winded like an old man. Even I''m not so wordy. They all are old enough to know what they are doing or what they want in their lives. Say less and attract less anger towards yourself. Our Raelle can take care of herself. She doesn''t need you."

    "Your husband is..." started Xiang Wai but didn''t know what adjective to use for Shui Xian right now.

    "Cute," helped Raelle her with that sentence. "He is very adorable sometimes."

 Chapter 1367 Took It Personally

    Chapter 1367 Took It Personally

    "You''re driving?" asked Raelle as she looked at Xiang Wai who took the steering wheel. "Can I just call my personal driver instead?" Cloe pfft-ed at that and had to purse her lips when she noticed the way Xiang Wai looked back at her.

    "Dear sister, you don''t have to be so obvious about your doubts regarding my driving skills. You have never seen me drive before," was Xiang Wai''s response.

    "Indeed, I haven''t seen you drive before," agreed Raelle. "That''s why it''s more concerning. You see, your personality says a lot about your driving skills. I value my life very much."

    Xiang Wai fastened her seatbelt and gave her sister a provocative nce, "Well, then unfortunately for you, your life is in my hands tonight." With that, she stepped on the elerator and took a flight. Yeah, it was a literal flight since Raelle felt like the air pressure was trying to pressure her back into the seat. "This is a car," reminded Raelle. "Not a ne!"

    "What? I can''t hear you," shouted Xiang Wai in response very indifferently. Since someone questioned her driving skills, she had to let them know what she could do. How else would she live up to her name?

    Raelle could only deal with this now that she had gotten herself involved. She couldn''t me anyone. She was the one who opened her mouth to say the wrong thing and made Xiang Wai retaliate so childishly. What could be done about it now?

    "Mmm... Wai, you were supposed to take a turn back there," Cloe said to Xiang Wai who was busy enjoying her car flight right now and didn''t even notice the turn. "Huh?" Xiang Wai slowed down the speed and turned her head to look at Cloe. "Was I supposed to make a turn?"

    "Yeah," answered Cloe.

    "Why didn''t you remind me earlier?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "I thought you knew."

    "How would I know?" asked Xiang Wai. "Even if I knew, I can forget that. I mix up things when ites to directions."

    "How did you survive in the army?" asked Cloe.

    "I only lose my way on the roads," answered Xiang Wai. "Otherwise I am very good at finding my way out of everything."

    "I suddenly highly doubt that statement," said Cloe as she turned on the nevigation system of the car and punched in the location. "Great! Now, we have to drive for an hour before we can find an exit. You''re so good, Major Wai! I feel like giving you a round of apuse."

    "Rx," said Xiang Wai. "It happens. You can''t just me me like this. Anybody can make such mistakes."

    Raelle listened to them talking from the back seat and suddenly wondered if it was really a good idea to go out with these two. It suddenly really didn''t look like a very good thing. She chose to close her eyes to rest instead of focusing on what they were doing. n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Why so quiet, Raelle?" asked Xiang Wai. "Would you like me to y a song for you?"

    "Even if you y one, I won''t be recognizing any song," replied Raelle with her eyes closed. "So, don''t waste your time."

    "Hey! Then how are you gonna dance with us?"

    "I''m not dancing," said Raelle.

    "Then why did we put so much effort into your looks?" "I didn''t force you."

    Xiang Wai was exasperated, "Can you be a bit cooperative here?"

    "I have never been this cooperative in my life as I had been in the past month or so," said Raelle. "Believe me, I don''t ever wanna be this cooperative ever again either. Once in a lifetime experience is enough of a lesson for me to know that I''m not meant for this kind of a life."

    "Don''t say that now," said Xiang Wai. "I''m gonna teach you how to dance and set the dance floor on fire tonight."

    "ying with fire is strictly forbidden for me since I was young," was Raelle''s response.

    Xiang Wai''s lips twitched, "That was a metaphorical fire and not a real one."

    "Even metaphorical fire is dangerous for me."

    "Don''t annoy me," said Xiang Wai. "Even if I have to drag you, you''re still getting on that dance floor tonight."

    "I don''t know about fire but she might tear down the dance floor if you pissed her off," reminded Cloe. "I told you let''s change the ns and not go to a nightclub. She isn''t meant for those ces."

    "I want her to be reborn on that dance floor and I''m not taking a no for an answer," Xiang Wai was stubbornly insisting on her point and Cloe was quite helpless about it. She really had told Xiang Wai all about Raelle''s likes and dislikes and clearly mentioned how nightclub was a ce where Raelle did not belong. But Xiang Wai had to do this.

    "Cloe, I thought you hated the idea of going clubbing with me because I am just that boring," Raelle spoke up from behind again.

    "I am still sticking with my words," replied Cloe. "And trust me, I tried to convince your sister too but she is just very stubborn. Just like a stubborn bull!"

    "Hey! You can''t call me a bull!"

    "Why are you offended now? Did I say anything wrong?" asked Cloe. "You''re clearly like a bull which can''t see anything else after seeing the color red. You just have to go forward even if it means you''d be hitting your head straight in the wall behind that red cloth."

    "I know you''re trying to make me mad but I''m telling you, I''m in a good mood tonight. So, you can''t make me mad."

    "Challenge epted."

    Both Cloe and Xiang Wai paused when the answer wasing from Raelle. "Chief, let''s forget about it."

    "Yeah, it wasn''t for you. I don''t dare challenge you."

    "What to do," started Raelle. "I took it just personally."

    Xiang Wai almost smashed her head into the steering wheel after hearing that from her sister. Only heaven could save her now.

 Chapter 1368 So Touchy

    Chapter 1368 So Touchy

    The nightclub that Xiang Wai picked was a special existence in the elite ss. It wasn''t crowded like other nightclubs and it wasn''t filled with all kinds of mixed oddballs too. Few of the youngsters were dancing on the dance floor having fun while most people seemed to be sitting in the dark corners with their groups.

    The three of them walked through these people to enter the private room that Xiang Wai booked. A lot of eyes followed their figures until they disappeared from sight.

    "Is it just me or the head-turning rate was too high just now?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "With Chief around, you get used to the head turnings and constant stares," said Cloe with a sigh.

    "You both don''t have to look down on yourselves. You aren''t looking half back either," said Raelle as she looked around the private room curiously. She had seen nightclubs in other countries but she had never been to one since she came to settle down here. It''s not like it was a ce where she''d choose to hang out with anyone.

    "Thanks for thepliment," said Cloe.

    "Pleasure is all mine," replied Raelle. She took out wet wipes from her clutch and wiped the leather couch carefully.

    "What are you doing?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "I told you her mysophobia kicks in at odd times," reminded Cloe. "And Raelle, really, there is no need for this."

    "There is," said Raelle. "There are all kinds of peopleing here and even doing all sorts of things on these very couches. Now that I have said it, I feel like I can''t bring myself to even sit down here."

    Xiang Wai groaned when she heard that.

    "Now, do you see why I said let''s choose somewhere else?" asked Cloe to her.

    Xiang Wai also felt like she was thinking right when she decided to bring Raelle here. But maybe it''s because she had never seen how Raelle reacted to ces like these. She could practically see the disgust in Raelle''s eyes as she looked around the VVIP private room that she booked in the city''s best nightclub. Her sister''s tastes were really not aligned with her. She seemed to always forget that she was the careless soldier who didn''t care about the environment but her sister grew up in a castle with everything at her disposal.

    "We are not here to sit anyway," said Xiang Wai. "Let''s go and dance the night way."

    She dragged Raelle to the dance floor and started shaking her body with the rhythm of the music but Raelle just stood there looking at her like she was some kind of a fool.

    "Don''t just stand there." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Raelle touched her ear before taking a deep breath and getting down the dance floor. "Where are you going?" Cloe held Xiang Wai''s hand to stop her, "You let her go if you don''t want to make her really mad. I wanted to say this from the moment you made the n toe here to celebrate. Told you so! Raelle Xiang isn''t someone who would like such a ce. You heard it even from her husband. It''s beyond herfort zone. I saw her entering a nightclub for Fai but even he can''t make her agree to dance here or have fun. She''d constantly be trying to filter out the noise from her head. This is nothing more than a torture for her."

    "I didn''t think it was that serious," said Xiang Wai.

    "It is that serious."

    Both them followed to find where Raelle went and saw her standing in front of the bar counter. "Is she gonna drink?"

    "She doesn''t drink usually though," answered Cloe.

    "I''ll have a Bloody Mary," ordered Raelle after taking a while to see what she wanted. She wasn''t nning on getting drunk tonight but she really had to get some alcohol in her system to bear through this night. Why did people even likeing to such ces? What exactly was fun here? All she saw was people grinding against each other on the dance floor or getting drunk to take advantage of others.

    Who in their right mind would want to enter this ce willingly?

    They couldn''t all be forced like her.

    "How about a drink for this beautifuldy?" Raelle didn''t even turn her head to look at the man who asked this question and said, "You better get this sleezy face out of my personal space before I change the way it looks."

    "Feisty, I like that," chuckled the man at her as he tried to get even closer.

    Before Raelle could do anything, both Xiang Wai and Cloe ran over. One held Raelle back and the other held the wrist of the man in her tight grip saying, "My sister told you to keep your distance. You should learn to listen."

    "Ouch! Ouch! Okay! I''m sorry! Let me go!" begged the man.

    Xiang Wai sighed and gave him a roll of her eyes before throwing him away. When she turned around, she was met with Raelle''s eyes which seemed to be also asking her how did shee up with the brilliant idea ofing to this ce to celebrate. She was really regretting it now.

    "Okay, I made a mistake. We all do," said Xiang Wai.

    "You always say that," said Raelle. "This is the second time you just said that in the span of an hour. Can we leave here now? If one more person came here and tried to enter my personal space, I''m gonna make sure they are never able to walk again."

    "You''re tyrant sometimes," muttered Xiang Wai to herself but she didn''t dare doubt Raelle''s words either right now. "Fine. Let''s get out of here first. Are you gonna wait for your drink or we should leave?"

    "I think we should leave," said Cloe. "She won''t be drinking anything."

    "I didn''t say that."

    "But I did," insisted Cloe as she looked her arm with Raelle''s to take her out.

    "Why are you both so touchy tonight?"

    No one answered Raelle''s question because they weren''t in the mood to do so.

 Chapter 1369 Problem Here

    Chapter 1369 Problem Here

    Cloe fanned Raelle with her hands as they came out of the nightclub. Looking at the unusual expression on her face, she couldn''t help asking, "Are you alright?"

    "I will survive," answered Raelle.

    "It''s not your first time in a nightclub. No matter how much you hate this kind of a ce, I''ve never seen you looking like this," mentioned Cloe. "What exactly happened?"

    "I don''t know," replied Raelle. "I just did not like anything inside. The music was too loud. The perfumes were making me... queasy. I think that''s the feeling of nausea. And don''t get me started on people trying to invade my personal space."

    Cloe nced at Xiang Wai who was pretending like she couldn''t see anything. No, it was almost like she was trying to act like she was not even there.

    "It''s all her fault," Cloe pointed at Xiang Wai. "It''s all her bad idea."

    "How would I know she''d feel sick here?" asked Xiang Wai in shock. "I am not irvoyant. There is no way for me to know about this, don''t you guys think so?"

    "It''s okay," Raelle raised her hand to stop them both from continuing. "It''s no anyone''s fault. Even though I don''t like going clubbing, it''s true that I''ve been to nightclubs before. I have never felt this way before though."

    "Is something wrong with your health?" asked Cloe. "I don''t think so," Raelle didn''t think she was sick. It didn''t feel like that. She only felt stifled inside. But now in fresh air, she was all fine again. Maybe some kind of weird energy was messing with her inside. "Anyway, don''t ruin your night because of me. You can pick another ce."

    "Where can we go now?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "You decide," replied Raelle.

    "I did and that''s how we ended up here," reminded Xiang Wai. "So, now, it''s up to you."

    "I don''t know what are the options."

    Xiang Wai sighed and said, "I also don''t know. Ask your perfect assistant if she has any ideas."

    "I have a list, thank you for asking," said Cloe as she took out her phone and pulled out the note she had made before. "This is why one should alwayse prepared."

    "Was that a reminder for me?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "It''s a reminder for the wise," replied Cloe and smiled at her. "Okay, so we have spa night."

    "Spa night?" repeated Xiang Wai before Raelle could even speak. "No! What''s fun in that?"

    "Have you ever been to a spa before, Major?" asked Cloe.

    "Do I look like a fool? I have. Even though it happened when I was undercover but I did experience it." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Oh, that exins it," said Cloe. "I was wondering how a person like you ended up at a spa and why? Now, it makes sense. So, now we have wine tasting on the list."

    "No!" said Xiang Wai.

    "Why not?"

    "What''s fun in that?!" shouted Xiang Wai. "What kind of elegant interests are you into? I''m not following. Pick another one."

    Cloe took a deep breath, "We can go to a live concert or aedy show."

    "Again, too many people for my sister''s liking."

    "You''ve gotten wiser."

    "Once is enough for me to learn."

    Cloe shook her head and went on, "Karaoke!"

    "Are you forgetting that my sister can''t even recognize the songs her own best friend sang?"

    Cloe took a deep breath again. "Let''s visit a psychic!"

    Both Raelle and Xiang Wai gave her a look in response.

    "Now what? It''s a good idea. Something different."

    "You know what else is different?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "What?"

    "We can have a pic on the roadside. Would you like to try that with me? I believe it''d be one of kind experience for you."

    Cloe rolled her eyes at her and Raelle snatched the phone from her hand to look through her list. She read through it all and then said, "Let''s go to a cooking ss."

    "Cough!!!" Xiang Wai and Cloe gave Raelle a horrified look.

    "What did you say, sister?"

    "Cooking ss," replied Raelle inly.

    Xiang Waiughed and slowlyughed even louder before saying, "You want to go to a cooking ss in that dress?"

    Raelle looked down at her dress and then said, "I can buy a new one. There is a mall right there."

    "Sis, then if we can buy a dress for you there to change into. Why not just go shopping and have fun? What''s fun in the cooking ss?"

    "We won''t know what''s fun in the cooking ss until you go there," was Raelle''s response.

    "I did not put so much effort into your look just so you could go to some cooking ss!"

    "Raelle, are you really fine?" asked Cloe.

    "What now?"

    "Howe you want to join a cooking ss? Do you even know the C of cooking? What are you even gonna do there?"

    "What do people go to cooking ss for?" asked Raelle. "I''d do what they''d do."

    "But why would you?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Because I want to learn how to make a cake," replied Raelle.

    "You learn how to bake a cake in a baking ss," said Cloe. "Not in a cooking ss, Chief."

    "Isn''t it all done in the kitchen? Why the discrimination?" Raelle didn''t know why there was even an argument here about this. She could not believe they even had to lecture her about this.

    "There is a very big difference between the two," said Xiang Wai. "First learn the difference between cooking and baking before even considering to join a cooking ss. There are chefs and pastry chefs. They both can''t do just everything. Anyway, I am not taking you to one. What if Aunt got the air of it? Won''t I be digging my own grave?"

    "Then let''s have a game night," said Raelle. "You all can''t even n how you are gonna celebrate."

    "We do know. We could go eat together but you won''t like that," replied Cloe. "We came here to dance but you don''t like that either. You are the problem here, Missy!"

 Chapter 1370 Score Of Nine

    Chapter 1370 Score Of Nine

    It was past midnight when Raelle came back home from her ''girl''s night out'' which she tried for the first time and definitely didn''t wish to try it ever again. Finding Shui Xian sitting on the porch, Raelle paused for a minute before walking over to his side.

    "What are you doing out here?" she asked him knowingly.

    Shui Xian held her wrist and pulled her closer, making her sit on hisp as he hugged her from behind. cing his chin on her shoulder, he replied, "I was waiting for my wife."

    "Where did she go?" asked Raelle.

    "She donned a hot one-piece dress, and went out with her girlfriends looking like she was ready to break some hearts tonight with her killer beauty," responded Shui Xian.

    "Ooohhh..." Raelle dragged out her response. "Then you must be feeling really sad that she abandoned you for the night, no?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "I feel so lonely without her."

    Raelle turned her head and ced her hand on the side of his face as her lips came inches away from his, "How about you forget about your wife? I''ll apany you for the night to make you feel less lonely."

    Shui Xian almost waved the white g before her seductive actions. She even purposely lowered her voice to make it sexier. And he definitely wasn''t joking when he said that she was looking like a hot temptress tonight. Being able to hold up his fort was a challenge as he insisted, "No! I love my wife very much. I can never cheat on her."

    "How is this cheating?" asked Raelle as her lips brushed against his lips and she purposely rubbed her nose on his cheek making him stiff. "We are just gonna have some fun together. No one would have to know about it. Besides, your wife left you all alone so isn''t she practically leaving her space to allow someone else to fill in? Why can''t I fill in that space?"

    Shui Xian closed his head and took a deep breath before picking her up into his arms. Raelle hugged his neck naturally.

    "So, are you agreeing to have fun?" she teased. "Drop it!" said Shui Xian. "You just have to test my patience with you."

    "How is that possible?" she asked. "I already know you can''t say no twice to me."

    "Right. I''m such a fool who always falls for your tricks."

    "You''re my fool. My favorite fool in the whole world."

    "Thanks for thepliment, wifey!"

    "Pleasure is all mine, husband!" n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Shui Xian smiled to himself as he ascended the stairs with her in his arms, "Did you have fun out with your girlfriends?"

    "Nah," she replied carelessly. "I believe we could have had more fun together staying in our bed."

    Shui Xian''s raised foot stopped for a split moment before continuing to walk to their bedroom. He put her on the bed and crouched down to help her take off her high heels saying, "This is real torture." Holding her delicate foot in his big hands, he massaged her foot gently, "Does it feel better?"

    "Hmm..." Raelle hummed in response.

    "So, what did you do tonight?" he asked, wanting to know how his wife spent her night. "We tried all the convenience store food avable," she told him as if she had done something great. "I didn''t even know there were so many options."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and looked up at her, "Baby, what did you do?"

    "Tried convenience store food," she repeated herself. "You canugh if you want to. I won''t mind."

    As if on cue, he really burst outughing. He was not expecting this oue. It was always a wild ride with Raelle Xiang around. How could he forget that even for a minute? "I think that''s enough," said Raelle.

    Shui Xian nodded his head and tried his best to stopughing. He faked a cough and asked, "Don''t you dislike the processed food and packaged food?"

    "I do," was her answer. "But my sister thinks I should take chances in life. It''s not like packaged food will kill you were her exact words. So, I should give it a try once in my boring lifetime."

    "What? Xiang Wai called my wife, boring? How dare she!"

    Raelle patted his head saying, "You don''t have to pretend like she wasn''t right. Even I know I am boring most of the time. Just because you enjoy mypany doesn''t mean others do. And I havee to a realization tonight."

    "What is it?"

    "The reason why you and I can get along so well is because you don''t mind staying in a quiet ce with me doing absolutely nothing. If you''re a little more into adventure and fun, we would not be getting along right now."

    "That''s not true," responded Shui Xian. "Wait a minute." He rushed to the bathroom to wash his hands beforeing back to sit beside her. Hugging her shoulders, he ced her head on his chest as he continued, "I enjoy every moment with you. I have had enough adventures in my childhood and adolescent years. In fact, I think I like theforting moments between us where we are just talking about things randomly or teasing each other, or just sitting in the silentfort that you bring me. And most of all, I always find myself so fascinated by your beauty that I can''t bring myself to find anything boring with you around. After all, I can spend hours just staring at you now."

    "Sweet," she replied. "I''ll give you a score of 9."

    "9? What about thest point?"

    "I cut for being too sweet. Sweetness should stay in limits."

    Shui Xianughed at her answer and kissed the top of her head. And then she says she is boring? How was that even possible? Shui Xian thought that he had never had a single moment since the time he firstid his eyes on her. He hugged her even tighter as he said, "You''re the literal sugar rush of my life. Am Iining? You should cut me a ck and stop cutting my points randomly."

    "So serious?"

    "Yeah. It''s a serious matter to me."

 Chapter 1371 Learned It From You

    Chapter 1371 Learned It From You

    "Coming back to the topic, how did you guys even end up at the convenience store?" asked Shui Xian curiously. "They dressed my wife in such a beautiful dress and then took her to a convenience store? I don''t know what to even say right now."

    "No, they took me to a nightclub first," told Raelle. "Well, that didn''t go well."

    "What happened? Are you okay?"

    Seeing how concerned he looked, Raelle smiled at him to reassure him, "I am fine. Just didn''t like the vibe inside that ce. Too many people with too many strong perfumes, too loud music with too bold people."

    "Did someone hit on you?" asked Shui Xian.

    "What do you think?" she responded.

    "Someone definitely did," said Shui Xian with conviction. "I knew something like this would happen. When you are dressed like a professional and sessful businesswoman, people can''t keep their eyes off of you but still don''t get the courage toe close because of your intimidating aura. But when you''re dressed your age, it reduces the effect of your aura and nightclub is often a ce where people seem to get courageous. Maybe it''s because of alcohol or just the dark atmosphere in nightclubs. So, how did it go? What did he look like?"

    "As my husband should you be concerned about what the man who hit on your wife looked like?" "Can''t I be curious?" "What if I say it was a woman who hit on me?"

    "That''s even more possible!" said Shui Xian looking like he really believed her. "You look like the alpha female. You know one of a kind. I believe so many women would want to be under you."

    "That''s even more possible!" said Shui Xian looking like he really believed her. "You look like the alpha female. You know one of a kind. I believe so many women would want to be under you."

    Raelle gave him a hard look before pushing him onto the bed and getting on his body. Her fingers slid to his shirt''s buttons as she said, "Sadly for those women, I only like to be on top of you."

    Shui Xianughed as he held the back of her head to pull her closer to him saying, "Guess what? I also love this view." He bit her lower lip before kissing her deeply. After a long passionate kiss, Raelleid her head on his shoulder and continued to lie down on his body, using him like her personal mattress.

    Shui Xian ced his hand on her back as he asked, "You didn''t tell me what the guy who hit on you looked like?"

    "You''re still stuck on that?" asked Raelle.

    "I''m not moving on until I hear the answer."

    Raelle was speechless at his antics and decided to tease him some more, "He... He was quite tall. He was younger than you. Looked rather good-looking." n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "You don''t have to attack my age," said Shui Xian happily making her smile.

    Raelle kissed his jaw saying, "Anyway, he wasn''t better looking than you. Who cares about his age? If I cared about that, you wouldn''t be the one holding me in your arms right now."

    Shui Xian''s arms around her tightened, "Well, it can only be me." He was quite satisfied with this answer and even hummed to himself. "By the way, I am still not over the fact that you girls celebrated with convenience store food. I just can''t get my head around it."

    "Actually, it happened because of me," told Raelle. "Apparently, I''m a big problem. I ruined the night for those two as well. I think even their happiness of having sessful proposals might have been diminished because of me."

    "How is that possible?" "It is possible," she insisted. "Just because you keep saying I''m not boring doesn''t mean those girls agree. Both of them had other ns for tonight but none suited my taste. No, now that I think about it, even Cloe''s interests didn''t match with Wai, and Wai''s interests didn''t match with Cloe. So, I''m not the only one at fault here, right?"

    "Absolutely not," was Shui Xian''s answer. "How could my Raelle be the one at fault? Think about it. Cloe has been working in a corporation for years so of course, her interests would align with ssy and elegant things. Xiang Wai is a soldier with a free spirit, her interests are inclined towards carefree and casual things that arefortable and don''t need too much mental energy and fakeness. The fact that these two had been getting close to each othertely is already a big surprise to me."

    "You said it well, husband!"

    "Thank you, wife!"

    "Now, go and find me a nightwear. I don''t wanna get up."

    Shui Xian raised his brows in surprise, "Baby, are you trying to bezy?"

    "Didn''t you say I''m allowed to bezy when you are around?"

    "Of course, I''ll even help you put on the nightgown much less bring it to you. I''m just a little surprised seeing that you are starting to depend on me slowly."

    "This is also considered depending on you?"

    "It does to me," he replied solemnly as he got up to get a nightgown for her. "I have ced it in the bathroom. Should I also help you with the shower?"

    Seeing his eager smile, Raelle shook her head, "No!"

    "Why?" his face fell.

    "So that you can understand what it feels like to be rejected!"

    With that, she entered the bathroom and locked it too.

    "Wow! You even locked the door. Are you serious right now? I did not expect you to be so calctive, wifey!"

    "Learned it all from you!" she replied from inside.

    Shui Xian tsked to himself, "Why didn''t you learn some good things from me?" He even knocked on his head. What was he thinking when he rejected his wife''s offer of showering together at the beginning of their marriage? What was he being so coy for? Would it kill him to let her in? Now, it''s great! She wants to get back at him in the worst way possible!

    Still, with a smile ying on his lips, he started putting his essories back in their ces carefully. He took her heels back to the shoe closet too. After arranging everything, he was satisfiedly went to bed.

 Chapter 1372 Full Of Drama

    Chapter 1372 Full Of Drama

    As Shui Xian had said, there was never a dull moment with Raelle around. Even if she was the most boring person around him, he didn''t even consider for a moment that she was boring. Yes, she was a serious person and he knew that from the beginning. He also knew that her interests didn''t match his own either. In conclusion, they were theplete opposite of each other.

    But they both were also people who were willing to give their all to make their marriage work from the very start even when it wasn''t based on their feelings for each other. They both tried to understand each other, they both knew whatpromises they had to make, and they both also were willing to try out the interest of the other person. So, Shui Xian was more than just satisfied with his ''boring'' wife who would never let any chance to tease him by using her seductive charms go. And she knew exactly where or how to attack to make him sumb before her too. He wasn''t half bad either but he really felt like his wife''s flirting skills were off the charts and he was no longer the party with the so-called ''experience''.

    When Raelle came out of the bathroom, she found Shui Xian smiling at his phone screen. She ran her fingers through her hair that she just dried after washing and went to her side of the bed. Sitting down, she poured herself a ss of water to drink before pulling the nket to cover herself.

    "Wifey!" n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Hm?"

    "Won''t you ask what I''m smiling about?"

    "Should I be asking?" was her nonchnt response.

    "You''re way too disinterested in your husband''s personal life."

    "Oh, no! I have a very deep interest in my husband and his personal life too."

    "Then ask me!"

    "I don''t want to. Why do you insist? You are gonna tell me a very humorless joke and I won''t beughing again at it."

    Shui Xian gaped at her, "This time it''s not a joke!"

    Raelle turned to him and asked, "What is it this time to make my husband so happy?"

    "Look," he happily showed her the screen where she could see the photos of proposals from two different people. One was of course, Xiang Wai''s most impromptu proposal at the army base to Zhai Yanjun and the other one was the nned, perfectly organized and executed proposal from Cloe to Cui Xukun. It was quite the contrast if one looked at it except for one thing that both Zhai Yanjun and Cui Xukun looked like they were not expecting that from their girlfriends. "They look so silly just standing there, not knowing how to react."

    "It''s ironic considering you also stood there, not knowing what to say or how to react," reminded Raelle.

    "That''s so not true," argued Shui Xian. "I always had the answer and it was always a yes. The reason I might have just stood there was that... I never expected even in my wildest dreams that you''d be the one to propose me because that''s not the kind of romantic things you are into. And you also chose a very interesting moment to do it."

    "I''m the definition of expect the unexpected," said Raelle proudly.

    Shui Xian hugged her as he added, "I''d say your whole Xiang family is the definition of expect the unexpected. Think about it. Your brother, Xiang Weimin unexpectedly became a father and didn''t even know about it. Your sister also proposed in a heat of the moment even after spending a long time nning it. And you... Well, my wife is the best, you just chose the moment you thought was just right for the proposal."

    "Love is indeed blind. If I do it, it''s right. But if the same thing is done by my sister, it''s not so right."

    "I love you so of course, you are the only one right to me. What does she have to do with me? Why should I justify her actions? At most, I''d try not tough or tease her about how her n was spoiled just because she was jealous of a little girl hitting on her boyfriend. Hahaha!"

    Seeing himughing, Raelle also smiled to herself, "I feel like you''re enjoying it more than anyone else."

    "The best part of being on the sidelines is that, you get to enjoy the drama with popcorn and drinks without any worry. After all, the drama has nothing to do with you. You can enjoy it as long as you are not one of the parties involved in the drama. You understand?"

    "I really don''t understand, husband!"

    "How about this?" he seriously started nning. "Next time, I''ll take you to a ce full of drama. We''ll just sit there for an hour, you''d get to enjoy at three different genres of the drama there. I assure you, that''s the best form of entertainment."

    "And then they say, I''m the one with the weird interests between the two of us."

    Shui Xian rubbed her head andughed, "Don''t worry. I can also get weird. And I''m talking from experience. I''ll tell you, once I went to this caf¨¦, I was taking a break before going back to the office. Guess what? Within just the first five minutes while I was waiting for my coffee, a girl came to catch her cheated husband and the mistress. Then when I got my coffee, I also got to see the famous scene of throwing money at the poor girls face just to make her leave the rich guy. Then by the time I finished my coffee, I also witnessed the melodramatic drama between a girlfriend who was forced toe to the blind date because her family didn''t agree with the boyfriend she had. You see, how much drama is around us everyday? I''m telling you, I almost thought there was a hidden camera for a variety show or something around."

 Chapter 1373 Would You Do That?

    Chapter 1373 Would You Do That?

    "Are you trying to fool me right now?" asked Raelle seriously. "Just because I don''t understand certain things doesn''t mean I am so easily fooled."

    "But I swear, it happened!" said Shui Xian. "Why have I never encountered such dramas?"

    "First, you don''t go to crowded ces. Second, you often zone out the world and just build a silent bubble around yourself. How would you see it? But trust me if you ask others, they must have encountered at least one such live show around."

    "I will ask Cloe," said Raelle, and even took the phone to make a call.

    "Right now?" "Yes. I have to know it right now!"

    Shui Xian shrugged and let her be.

    Cloe picked up her phone after a long wait, "Chief, you should not disturb someone''s good times."

    "I don''t wanna go into these details of your good times right now," responded Raelle. "I called for a serious matter."

    "Go ahead."

    So, Raelle went to exin to Cloe how Shui Xian said there was so much live entertainment around them but she just never concerned herself with it. She asked Cloe if she had really seen such drama in real life.

    "Of course, I have!" was Cloe''s answer. "And by the way, this is no serious matter! You could have waited until tomorrow! You are exploiting your employee right now by calling her after midnight for such a stupid question."

    "Hey! I''m calling a friend here. Not my employee," said Raelle. "Andst I heard, you get to call your friends any time you want to without any care. Am I wrong about that?"

    Cloe''s frustration of having her good times ruined, died down when she heard that and she sighed, "No, you are not wrong."

    "I didn''t ask a stupid question. I was just curious. Is it wrong to try to kill your curiosity as soon as possible?"

    "No, you can never be wrong," replied Cloe. "Fine, I''ll tell you. You indeed don''t pay attention to what goes on around you. You do have a habit of living in a bubble unless the things have anything to do with you. I''ll share thetest office romance drama with you. One of our female employees from the HR department had been getting expensive gifts from one of the directors whom I won''t name right now. She didn''t dare to reject the gifts for fear of losing her job by offending the director. But when the director tried to go a little further, she lost her patience and told everything to her boyfriend. Guess what, her boyfriend happens to be from a rich family too. He brought a box full of those expensive gifts and organized a meeting with the director, and then he dropped everything on his head before beating him like a punching bag." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Raelle was speechless, "You seemed to have had a lot of fun."

    "It was indeed fun and entertaining. You don''t get to enjoy such dramas every day."

    "Why didn''t you tell me about this?"

    "I did. I told you a certain director tried to misbehave with an employee and you fired him on the spot. Does it ring a bell?"

    "But you didn''t exin what happened?"

    "You never need exnations," replied Cloe. "Now, be a good girl and go to sleep. Let me have some fun!"

    Raelle looked at her phone saying, "She just hung up on me."

    "What were you expecting?"

    Raelle put her head on his chest as she said, "I didn''t think there really was drama in real life."

    "It just shows yourck of interest in anything unrted to your work or people you care about."

    "I''ll try to pay attention from now on," she said to herself. She really had to experience this to believe it. Because until now, she really thought Shui Xian and Cloe were trying to fool her by talking nonsense. So, the facts could only be cleared once she witnessed things with her own eyes. She put her hand under the pillow and took out a book which she pushed into Shui Xian''s hands, "Here, read it to me."

    "Huh?" Shui Xian was dumbfounded by her request.

    "What? If you have a good voice, you should be using it for a great cause."

    "What''s the great cause?" he asked.

    "Reading books to your wife so that she doesn''t have to read them herself," said Raelle. "You see, your wife loves books and she loves you too. So, when you read the book to her, her oxytocin neurotransmitters would be triggered helping her in promoting the feelings of trust, connection, and emotional warmth with you. Then your voice is her favorite, it''ll also trigger the serotonin and help her sleep better. Not only that, dopamine level would also go up, and she''ll feel rewarded leading to happiness. And..."

    "You can stop. I''ll just read. No, if you tell me I''ll also start recording your next book in my voice so that you can hear it on your way to work or whenever you have time."

    "Would you do that? That''d be great!"

    Shui Xian took a deep breath as he stared into her eyes that were looking forward to him working overtime for this and he gave in. He held her head and put it on his chest again saying, "Close your eyes and focus. I''m gonna start reading."

    "Okay..."

    Strangely enough, the book she was reading was different from her usual reads. It was a novel of interconnected stories that not only spanned the decades but also continents. The elements of science experiments, dark human hearts,plex emotions, and experiences. The narrative weaved together a kaleidoscopic view of the character''s lives and how the passage of time changed things.

    Even Shui Xian found himself getting absorbed in the book. That''s why it was only after thirty minutes when he felt thirsty did he notice that Raelle seemed to have fallen asleep at some point. He bookmarked the book, drank some water, and hugged her to sleep. He kissed her forehead as he whispered, "You have no idea how happy I feel, knowing that you have started to boss me around. Don''t worry! I''ll work extra hard to record whatever you want in my voice. As long as you like it." He caressed the side of her face before closing his eyes with a smile ying on his lips.

 Chapter 1374 Just Wanted To See

    Chapter 1374 Just Wanted To See

    The time before the wedding of Shui Xian and Raelle passed too fast and it was only just a week before their wedding was supposed to be held. Shui Koshing had no idea what this couple was even up to. He had hardly been able to even see the two of them in the past month as they left home early in the morning before he woke up and came backte at night too.

    Since they were so close to the wedding now, Shui Koshing believed it was time to sit down with Shui Xian and Raelle so he purposely waited for them toe back. So, when the two of them came back home, they found Shui Koshing nodding off on the sofa in the living room. Sharing a look with each other, they bother walked to his side.

    "B¨¤, why are you sleeping here?" asked Shui Xian. "Don''t tell me, you were waiting for us."

    Shui Koshing yawned as he slowly opened his eyes and looked at the time. "Why are you bothing back sote?"

    "Busy," answered Raelle.

    "Why is work so busy all of a sudden?" asked Shui Koshing with dissatisfaction visible in his tone.

    "Because we have to arrange everything before taking time off for our wedding and then our honeymoon too," replied Shui Xian.

    Shui Koshing nodded his head in understanding, "You know I can go back to work to give you more time for your honeymoon."

    "As much as I appreciate that, I''d still not want you to work. You are retired, remember? Just stay retired. Don''t try to get back to work at every chance you get."

    "Xian is right," added Raelle. "You should not think about work. He can handle it."

    "If you both say so then I won''t talk about it," agreed Shui Koshing. "But you really have to take a break too. You both have been working over the weekends too. I can hardly even see you too."

    "That''s our bad," said Raelle. "We should have squeezed out the time to spend with you."

    "No need to be so serious. It''s not like you both spent too much time with me before this. It''s just that we used to have two meals of the day together and I just got used to seeing a lively meal table. I can''t go back to being all alone," told Shui Koshing.

    "B¨¤, then wouldn''t you be more lonely when we go on our honeymoon?" asked Shui Xian. "How about I call Amelia toe home? She''ll keep youpany."

    "No, there is no need for that," said Shui Koshing.

    "Why?" asked Shui Xian. "Isn''t your rtionship getting better now? Or is it still very awkward being alone with your own daughter?"

    "It''s nothing like that. I don''t wanna burden her. I''m an old man who has nothing to do but she still is an ambitious woman. I wouldn''t want her to leave everything ande home just to keep mepany."

    Raelle had a thoughtful expression on her face as she suggested, "Then how about you go to her instead."

    "Huh?" Both Shui Xian and Shui Koshing gave Raelle the same look.

    "Think about it. If B¨¤ doesn''t feel like being a burden to his daughter, there is no need to be a burden. He is right, Amelia has her own things to do as she is in the final stages of her filming too. She will take a break for our wedding and after the wedding, B¨¤ can just follow her back to the filming set. B¨¤ has never been introduced to the entertainment industry and he doesn''t understand how Amelia works or what her work means to her either. B¨¤ can take this chance to see what his daughter is so passionate about, what makes her happy, and also use this to understand her better. It''ll help them in getting close too."

    "Whose wife is that?" asked Shui Xian. "Oh, right. It''s mine." He hugged her from the side saying, "As always, my wife is absolutely right. What do you say, B¨¤? Isn''t this a good idea?"

    "It really is," answered Shui Koshing. "Anyway, I have too much time on my hands and I don''t even know what to do with this time. So, I can take this chance to bond with my daughter. I really never understood Amelia''s passion for being a filmmaker. So, I should see her at work. Maybe, I''ll have something new to learn. Besides, Fai says a film set has too many interesting things going on, I''m sure I won''t be bored."

    "You should stop listening to Hyson," was Raelle''s advice. "Half of the time, he doesn''t even know what he is doing or thinking. It''s really dangerous for you to listen to him in everything or take everything he says seriously. He doesn''t even take himself seriously."

    "You can stop roasting him just because he isn''t here," said Shui Xian. "B¨¤, don''t tell Amelia about this yet. Wait until you follow her and surprise her there."

    "Hm... I also think surprising her would be better," agreed Shui Koshing. "I won''t take more of your time now. You both must be tired. I just wanted to see you both since we didn''t get to see each other in days and that''s why I waited here. I''m going back to my room now. You both should do too. And wrap up your work soon. If I''m not wrong, Raelle said she wanted to take you to see the wedding venue before anyone else, right?"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Raelle nodded her head, "Yes. We''ll be flying to Country G in three days from now."

    "Isn''t it your bachelorette party in three days?" asked Shui Koshing with a suspicious look.

    Raelle shrugged, "But I''m not a bachelorette. And I never asked for a bachelorette party either. And I never said I''d be attending it."

    Shui Koshing gasped at her answer, "You''re gonna ditch them all? What about the effort they put into it all?"

    "It''s a fact that if I joined them, no one would be having fun. After all, I''m so boring."

 Chapter 1375 Pick One!

    Chapter 1375 Pick One!

    "Even if you feel that way, you should still not ditch them," said Shui Koshing. "They all really put so much effort into nning everything."

    "But what''s the point if I can''t enjoy any of that?" asked Raelle. "Wouldn''t it be better if they just took this time to have fun with each other? I''d be really spoiling their night."

    Shui Koshing wanted to say something more but he saw Shui Xian shaking his head so, he stopped and only sighed. "Okay, do as you feel right."

    Shui Xian looked at Raelle and took her upstairs saying, "You''d be attending the bachelorette party."

    Raelle stopped and nced at him, "Why?"

    "Because everyone put a lot of effort into that party for you."

    "I said we''d be going to Country G that day," reminded Raelle.

    "We will," he answered. "All you have to do is just show up at the bachelorette party and then you can sneak out of there if you don''t feel right. Our flight can get canceled. I still have a private ne that we can take. Although it''s too much for you, it''s just once in a lifetime thing. It''s not like we are getting married every day. You just have to put up with this for once." n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Actually, Raelle also didn''t want to waste anyone''s effort. But after thest time when she spent a night out with Xiang Wai and Cloe, she realized her own shorings very clearly. She really wasn''t someone who could have fun with those girls. There weren''t that many things she was interested in and neither was she someone who was into trying new things.

    She liked her old things and wasfortable with them. Change was still not as eptable to her as others thought. She hadn''t changed as much as everyone thought either. She might have be a lot more patient though to the point that it was baffling to herself.

    "What are you gonna do about your bachelor party?" asked Raelle. "Don''t do anything messy. Don''t think I don''t know what happens at these parties either. If I learned that you did..."

    Shui Xian pecked her lips to stop her from saying more. "There is no bachelor party. I don''t want to have one. I''ll be just waiting at home for you. So that we can fly to Country G as soon as youe back."

    Raelle gave him a suspicious look before asking, "That pitiful?"

    Shui Xian made a cute face as he nodded, "Yes. That pitiful. I''m such a good husband. I''ll be just waiting for my wife at home obediently. Wifey should make sure toe back home as soon as possible because the husband would be waiting."

    "I''ll think about it," she replied haughtily.

    Shui Xian made a cute face as he nodded, "Yes. That pitiful. I''m such a good husband. I''ll be just waiting for my wife at home obediently. Wifey should make sure toe back home as soon as possible because the husband would be waiting."

    "I''ll think about it," she replied haughtily.

    Shui Xian chuckled at her as he followed her up. "How is work? Do you think you can wrap up everything within these days? I''m telling you, no phone is allowed on our honeymoon!"

    "I have been hearing that for months," replied Raelle. "Get over it already!"

    "I am not getting over it," he answered. "I told you, I''m warning you! You either choose me or your work. There is no such thing as having both. I won''t allow that."

    "You''re being too childish."

    "I am allowed to be childish," he retorted. "If you took on the role of being childish, what is our kid gonna do?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian froze when he heard that question from her but seeing how she asked so casually and seemed to be perfectly fine, he pursed his lips before replying, "Our kid? That kid might inherit your straight face. I highly doubt that our kid would inherit my childishness."

    "Don''t you want a daughter?" asked Raelle. "Your genes are gonna overtake mine when ites to our daughter. Have some faith in yourself."

    Shui Xian snickered, "Have faith in my genes? No. I think your dominant genes are more likely to win just like you keep winning in every argument of ours."

    "If you don''t give in, there is a high chance that I might lose."

    "How can I see that happening?" he asked. "No way! When I am around, my wife has to win. No one can make her lose. Not even me. I don''t allow that."

    He slumped down on the sofafortably and took the iPad to look at their wedding photos. He seemed to have been bewitched as he loved to scroll through these wedding photos every single night. He just felt too good just looking at the photos. Their traditional wedding dress photos were missing because Raelle only wanted to put on that dress once and that was on her wedding day. She did not want to go through so much hassle again and again.

    And he didn''t want to force it either considering that the dress alone weighed a lot and adding in the jewelry, it was too much even for him. He wondered how was she supposed to even walk wearing that but everyone said she''d be able to do so. "Xian, can you stop looking at those already?" Raelle really was tired of seeing him smiling to himself just scrolling through those wedding photos every single night. He was not even getting tired of them. She didn''t even know what was so interesting in those photos. The real person was in front of him but he had eyes for only the photostely.

    "I think this one would be good. How about we put this in our bedroom?" asked Shui Xian as he showed her the photo.

    Raelle pushed the iPad away saying, "Noments. Stick with one. Last night, it was another photo that you decided on and the night before that, it was another one that you picked. Can you just decide on one and stick with it?"

    "I can''t!" he replied. "You think it''s easy to pick one? These are our wedding photos. I like all of them. Is it my fault that you look good in each and every one of them?"

    "Very ttering but not gonna work! I''m not looking!"

    She was really tired ying this game with her. She really wondered if something was wrong with his brain? Did she pick a fool for herself? This fool was really something else...

 Chapter 1376 Dont Allow That

    Chapter 1376 Don''t Allow That

    "Shui Xian!"

    Shui Xian almost stumbled down the stairs when he heard the loud voice of his father. He was not expecting it at all. After all, his father had been ying the role of a gentle and understanding father for years now, so he almost forgot how he looked when he was in power.

    "What happened?" asked Shui Xian as he came down to stand in front of his raging father. He did not even know where this rage wasing from. He tried to recall if he had done anything wrong these days but couldn''t think of anything. He even refused to have a bachelor party because he had no faith in Cui Xukun and Zhai Yanjun. They both must be looking for chances to trip him up so he was very much against having a bachelor party. He didn''t need one either. He wasn''t a bachelor and he had already experienced a bachelor party once. He only insisted on a bachelorette party with Raelle because she really hadn''t experienced anything like that and he did want her to have all the experiences like any other girl. "Have you signed a pre-nuptial with Raelle?" asked Shui Koshing as he stared at his son with dissatisfaction. "A what?" asked Shui Xian in shock. "A pre-nuptial? Why would I sign that?"

    "Because you lost way too much when you had a divorce with Tang Hebe. You paid a heavy price for not signing a pre-nuptial. So, this time you wanted to cut your losses in case of unforeseen circumstances."

    Shui Xian looked so lost and confused listening to those words. He felt like he could understand what his father was saying but at the same time, it did not make any sense to him at all either. What the hell! The thought didn''t even cross his mind. Where was this pe-nuptialing from?

    "B¨¤," started Shui Xian. "You need to first calm down and exin everything to me. Where is this talk evening from? Besides, between Raelle and I, the one who needs to protect the assets should be my wife considering she has more assets than me. Also, we got married long ago. We are legally already married. Signing a pre-nuptial at this point won''t make any sense. We are just making up for the missed ceremony. Legally, she already has half the rights over all of me and everything of mine."

    Shui Koshing suddenly also realized that he made a scene without rifying first. But it didn''t matter, he couldn''t lose his momentum at this time. Not in front of his son for sure. So, he held his stance and said, "What do you mean by half? Is this your sincerity towards your wife? And you im to love her. Humph!"

    Even Shui Xian could see now that his father was just trying to make this difficult for him because he didn''t want to ept his loss. But he couldn''t argue with this old father either and didn''t wish to argue either. So, he chose to nod obediently, "You''re right. All of me belongs to her. How can half be enough?"

    "Exactly!" agreed Shui Koshing as if that''s how it was supposed to be.

    "Now, please tell me where did you hear about the pre-nuptial thing? Raelle and I never discussed that. Not even when we were marrying just out of our respect for our respective elders. And now, it''s different. We both have feelings for each other. Why would we be discussing the matter of property?"

    Shui Koshing''s face hardened when he heard that. He didn''t want to hide it from his son so he told him, "People from the n called me to ask about your wedding since I didn''t invite anyone from there. So, they started telling me how you seem to have learned your lesson after one stumble and are now walking cautiously. They said everyone knows about the pre-nuptial. And it''s given after all, whether it''s you or Raelle, you can''t be joking about your respective assets."

    "Believing their nonsense, you started doubting your own son?" asked Shui Xian. "I''m so disappointed in you, B¨¤."

    Shui Koshing was already feeling ashamed. "How can you me me? People had been hinting to me about the conspiracy behind your marriage with Raelle Xiang. They all say that for the sake of clinging to the power behind the Xiang family, you are even willing to lower your head in front of Raelle Xiang. Or else, why would you want to marry someone like her?"

    "Which bastard is saying such things about my wife?" asked Shui Xian angrily. "What is wrong with her? And why can''t I lower my head in front of my own wife? If I won''t bow in front of her, am I waiting for an immortal to descend before lowering my head? Tsk. This is cleary them expressing grapes are sour. Since they can''t have it, they want to make me feel bad for having it too."

    "That''s quite interesting."

    Both Shui Koshing and Shui Xian froze when they heard that voice from behind them. They turned their head and looked at Raelle standing with her arms crossed in front of her chest. "It seems people have a lot of opinions about my marriage," said Raelle. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Wife, you don''t have to pay them any attention," Shui Xian instantly went to her side to tell her that she had nothing to even worry about.

    "Do I look like I''m paying them any attention?" asked Raelle. "I already know what image I have. But I don''t allow people to specte about my husband''s intentions or makeup stories about our marriage. I don''t allow that." She looked at Shui Koshing, "Even if those people are considered ''family'' I won''t go easy on them."

    Shui Koshing took in her seriousness and actually smiled. How could he not see that she was trying to protect Shui Xian in her own way? That was how she was. She didn''t care about herself but had to care about Shui Xian in everything.

 Chapter 1377 Rumors

    Chapter 1377 Rumors

    Raelle did as she said. It''s not like she didn''t hear anything these days. She wasn''t deaf. Even if people usually refrained from gossiping in front of her, she still would hear a few things from here and there. Especially since she had new assistants, one of whom was very good at gossiping. Although she was good at her work too, she loved to get some extra gossip added to her work to make everything enjoyable. And it was that assistant who told her what rumors had been flying about. And she did hear about the talk of pre-nuptial too. Someone even dared to suggest to her to be careful when ites to property matters.

    She didn''t take any of that seriously. She wouldn''t pay attention to it unless it affected her personal life. And now, it did. The matter reached Shui Koshing who even heard it from the people of his n who were living in a whole different province. What did it show? It showed that people were getting too unrestrained.

    Raelle made some calls to find out who were the people who started all this and who were the ones standing at the front line. Even if she couldn''t deal with every wagging tongue, she could still pull a few out to give them ashing to teach them a good lesson and make them a lesson for others too.

    Seeing how she kept making calls, Shui Xian pinched his brows. He actually didn''t want her to get involved. But since she was, he couldn''t stay behind either. She could deal with the outsiders but his ''blood-rted'' rtives were up to him to handle.

    Years ago, when his father left his position as the patriarch and left the city to settle down here with Shui Xian, he thought they''d be making a clean break from those rtives. But these rtives really didn''t know when to give up. Just because they were not invited to his wedding, they were going rampant now? Did he still look like the young Shui Xian who was too devastated to deal with them after taking the blow of his divorce? He still hadn''t forgiven himself for not being able to stand by his father during that time.

    But he was more than capable of being his father''s shield now. Shui Koshing had no interest in anything else apart from living each dayzily, happily, and just carefreely. But these rtives kept bringing different issues to him to pull him back to their mess. Now, they were even dragging him to hurt his father once again. How could he let that happen?

    He called his assistant, "Ma Jun."

    "Yes, Master Xian!"

    "It seems the Shui family had been too leisurely these years. Don''t you think they should learn how to behave now?"

    Ma Jun instantly knew that even if Shui Xian sounded very calm, in fact, he was very angry right now.

    "I believe it''s time. What''s your order, Master Xian?"

    "Let everyone know that Shui Koshing or Shui Xian has nothing to do with the Shui n anymore."

    Ma Jun was stunned because he felt like this would be a big blow to the Shui n. The family business over there had a lot of projects in coboration with people who actually respected and had previous dealings with the previous patriarch, Shui Koshing. And only that''s why they were willing to put their faith in the Shui family''s business. If they announced that Shui Koshing or even Shui Xian had no dealings with the Shui n, then it was hard to say how many people would pull out their money from these projects.

    "Also, didn''t the subsidiary from the Jiachen have some problems? You can send the evidence of their tax evasion to the tax bureau. I''m pretty sure the government would love your contribution."

    Ma Jun sucked in his breath, "Isn''t that subsidiary under your cousin''s management?"

    "Exactly! That''s why my dear cousin should also know what he can talk about and what he can''t talk about."

    Ma Jun didn''t know why his Master was suddenly willing to deal such heavy blows to the Shui family when he had always been indifferent to them over the years. It''s not like Shui Xian had no dirt over the Shui family or that he had no reason to attack them, but he always avoided dealing with them for the sake of his father who still respected his blood connections.

    He wondered what happened this time to push thest straw and force Shui Xian to show his cards.

    On the other hand, Shui Xian didn''t think he was being cruel at all. Actually, he always took that side of the family as jumping clowns and didn''t want to take them seriously. That''s why he didn''t deemed them worthy enough of his attention over the years. But now, they were not only being disrespecting his father but were also making up stories about his wife.

    He knew that rumors about him and Raelle weren''t a big deal. He could handle them any other way but he still had to show his stance to make it clear to some people that he won''t always stay as harmless as they thought he was. He also had his bottom line and he refused to let anyone insult his wife.

    Shui Koshing sat and looked at these two people making phone calls and wondered what did he do? He only asked one question was there a need to make such a big deal out of it? Or maybe he was being softhearted now that he was old. If he was young and someone spected about his rtionship with his wife, he''d also react like that. No, he actually did. Back in the days, who didn''t say that his wife didn''t love him but was just using him to get back at her first love. Although those words hurt him, he didn''t believe them. But just because he didn''t believe them didn''t mean others didn''t either. So, he had to use practical actions to let everyone know that they couldn''t talk about his wife however they wanted. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Now, seeing his son acting the same way, he was actually feeling very rxed as if this was how it should be.

 Chapter 1378 Im So Good

    Chapter 1378 I''m So Good

    "We''ll bete, did you take all the luggage?" asked Raelle. "We have to leave soon. What are you looking for? And why are you carrying your guitar?"

    "I have to take it," answered Shui Xian. "How else am I gonna serenade you?"

    "I don''t want that at my wedding," was Raelle''s response.

    "Who said I''ll do it at the wedding?" he asked in return. "Can''t I do it over the honeymoon? Am I gonnae back to take this? So, it''s better to take this right now."

    "With how many ns you have for the honeymoon, I am really not looking forward to it."

    "Babes, I''ll be hurt if you say that."

    "I don''t care," said Raelle as she left him behind. "Where is the car? Where is the driver? Where is the house help today? Is today a holiday?"

    She was standing at the door when she heard her phone ringing and saw Shui Xian''s name disyed on the screen, she was confused but still took the call, "What? Why are you calling me from upstairs?"

    "I''m gonna apologize first," said Shui Xian.

    "Why? What did you do?"

    "Just know that I was also forced."

    "Huh? What does that..." before Raelle could continue, she felt someone standing behind her and didn''t even have to look behind to know who it was because she could very well tell who it was from the familiar perfume. "Yanyan!"

    "Hello, Elle! Going somewhere?"

    Raelle looked at her and asked, "How did you know?"

    "I know everything and I can''t let you run either," was Mu Chenyan''s answer. "Good girls don''t run from their own bachelorette parties."

    "Can''t you guys have fun on your own?"

    "No!" answered Mu Chenyan as she hugged her shoulder and dragged her along towards the RV that they specifically got for today. "Don''t make me force you."

    "You are forcing me already," was Raelle''s answer. "This is practically kidnapping in broad daylight."

    "It''s okay. You''re very used to kidnappings."

    "Is that something to joke about?"

    "Who is joking? Isn''t it a fact?"

    Raelle gave Mu Chenyan a look and realized that she had no way to win. If it was Xiang Wai or Cloe who did this, Raelle could find a way out. They both couldn''t force her into anything but Mu Chenyan was different. She was always different. Her status in her life was different and special. So special that Raelle could only obediently let herself be dragged into the RV and kidnapped!

    Seeing Xiang Wai and Cloe giving her cheeky grins inside the RV, Raelle gave them a nk stare which looked quite oppressing but both of them didn''t pay any attention to it because they were hiding behind Mu Chenyan to attack this time.

    "You''re taking sides with them instead of me?" asked Raelle to Mu Chenyan.

    "No way! I am always on your side."

    "Right. You''re so on my side that you just kidnapped me. Have you ever seen a bride like me?"

    "I have."

    "Where?"

    "Right here," responded Mu Chenyan cheekily. "Oh,e on, now! Don''t be such a party pooper. Your Yanyan is here. I''ll take you to have some fun!"

    "Let me remind you that your definition of fun and mine has also never aligned over the years," reminded Raelle.

    "But I still tried so many new things just for you. Just like that, you''d do new things for me. I''m not like Xiang Wai or Cloe. I heard what happened the other night. And you know that your Yanyan would never make you do anything that would make you ufortable. Do you know that?"

    "I do," answered Raelle.

    "Then just believe me and have fun for today. I''ll let you go to Country G at night. I know why are you so in a hurry to get there earlier than any one else."

    "Weren''t you also going early?"

    "So, I''ll also leave tomorrow," replied Mu Chenyan. "I can''t miss today. It''s my darling''s special day."

    "I don''t think it is." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "It''s a new experience and it''s considered a special day to me. You don''t get to share your opinion today."

    "Wow! This bride doesn''t have any rights either. Marvelous!"

    Seeing Xiang Wai holding a strip of cloth in front of her, Raelle looked at her sister and asked, "Don''t tell me this is to blindfold me. Are you guys ying the full set of kidnapping now?"

    "How is that possible? A full set would also involve tying to up, did we do it? No, we didn''t. We are still very considerate kidnappers," was Xiang Wai''s righteous words.

    Raelle took a deep breath saying, "Today is not my day."

    "d to see you have this realization," said Cloe which earned her a re from Raelle.

    "Just tie it around her eyes," said Mu Chenyan. "We can''t ruin our surprise!"

    Raelle closed her eyes and wore the blindfold obediently. This bride really had no rights so she couldn''t only follow orders now. Tsk. Tsk. Who knew this day woulde for Raelle Xiang too? What a downfall!

    They drove for about an hour before stopping and alighted from the RV together with Raelle. "Can I take it off now?"

    "Not yet," came the answer. "Keep walking for now."

    Mu Chenyan held her arm and led her in carefully. It was only after they entered that she took off the blindfold and told Raelle to take a look.

    Once Raelle got used to the lights around her again, she was left stunned. Her lips twitched at the sight of what was in front of her. She had thought about where would they take her. She had also wondered what would they n for this bachelorette party but never in her wildest dreams did she expect it''d be here.

    "Am I a kid?" asked Raelle.

    "You are," answered Mu Chenyan, Xiang Wai, and even Cloe. They had no doubt about this. She was truly the real kid in the family. Because even a kid might have had more adventures and fun then her.

    "Whose idea is it?" asked Raelle.

    "Mine," answered Mu Chenyan. "What''s wrong with it?"

    Raelle gave her Yanyan a look and asked, "You don''t think there is anything wrong with bringing someone my age to a water park for a bachelorette party?"

    "I don''t think there is anything wrong with it as long as you can have fun," answered Mu Chenyan. "Look, I used my privileges and booked the whole ce. I made them clean every corner of this park. Disinfect everything. Buy everything new for your use only. I even made them clean the pools before filling them new and fresh water. I went so far just for yourfort. Don''t you think I''m so good?"

 Chapter 1379 Dont Be Picky

    Chapter 1379 Don''t Be Picky

    Actually, Raelle had no doubt that her Mu Chenyan was very good. How could that even be a question? She also knew that Mu Chenyan would take her cleanliness issue seriously if she decided to bring her to such a ce which was used by millions of people. After all, this woman even wanted to build an exclusive amusement park for her just to let her experience it for once. How would she not take precautions when she brought her to a water park?

    Looking at the obviously empty water park, Raelle nced at the three of them and asked, "Are we really doing this?"

    "It''s fun! Trust us."

    "I don''t trust you guys though," mumbled Raelle but having no rights, she was dragged along to change into shorts and a half-sleeved t-shirt. Raelle looked at her simple ensemble and resigned herself to her fate right now. Nothing was in her hands right now anyway. n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Let''s go to the water slides," suggested Xiang Wai. "I haven''t been on one in a very long time. I miss the feeling of it."

    Raelle just followed them and slid down the tall water slide. As she fell into the water, she swam up and before she could catch her breath, she was sshed with water. Opening her eyes she looked at Xiang Wai who was mischievously grinning at her. Not taking a loss, Raelle sshed her back.

    And that''s how the sisters yed their first water-sshing game together. Itsted for a while before they started to move on to other rides too. To be honest, Raelle had no expectations but now that she was led from one ride to another, she seemed to be unwittingly looking forward to what was next.

    Maybe it was because she was the only child when she was a child, she didn''t feel interested in such activities. When Hyson entered her life, a lot of her habits were already established and it took him so much effort to bring some change into her life.

    Or perhaps it was because now Raelle had started understanding a lot of feelings and was able to enjoy things like others. Especially when she saw Xiang Wai, Cloe, and Mu Chenyan having fun with her. She actually felt happy in her heart.

    The biggest hurdle in her heart regarding this bachelorette party was that she felt like she would be a burden to these women since she was no fun. She didn''t want to spoil their mood along with hers. She didn''t think they''d choose something so unconventional like a water park to have fun today.

    They took a dip in the water pool and rode the waves as they crashed against the shore. It was like being at a beach but without the sand. Raelle found it quite interesting. After that, Raelle had fun at the surf simtor which tested one''s surfing skills. Of course, the worst one at this was Raelle. She was the person with the least hobbies around them and the one with the least real-life experiences too.

    "Next time, I''m gonna take you to surf for real," announced Xiang Wai. "How can you not know how to surf being Xiang Wai''s sister? Huh! Your sister, I was even a champion in the summer surfpetition."

    "You have had too much time on your hand," retorted Raelle.

    "It''s not that I had too much time, it''s you who entered the society too soon. Instead of living like a person, you decided to live like a money-making machine. I don''t even understand your obsession with money. I don''t think I''d exchange my experiences for any amount of money in the world."

    "Everyone is different," reminded Raelle.

    "Yes. But you are a real masterpiece," was Xiang Wai''s real opinion. "Let''s go and rx at thezy river."

    "What is that?"

    "We''ll rx and float along the river river on intable tubes. You can enjoy the scenery and gentle currents as you driftzily downstream. Wanna try?"

    Seeing Raelle''s suspicious gaze, Xiang Wai didn''t give her a chance to think or refuse as she dragged her along. Raelle could only shake her head. When her opinion didn''t even matter, why ask if she wanted to try? Anyway, she was at their mercy today so she''d just do whatever they wanted.

    Besides, she was no ufortable today. There were no people around them. Just the four of them were the masters of the big water park which actually made this ce look too deserted and even spooky but these women had no concern about that. Each one was more valiant than the other and there was no such thing as fear in their dictionaries.

    They yed until noon and only took a shower to change back into their clothes when they were tired and wanted to eat something for lunch. "Eat the fries and burger today," said Cloe. "Don''t be picky about food."

    "When I was picky?" asked Raelle.

    "Don''t get me started on that now."

    Raelle took the tray from her and started eating silently as she listened to them chatting. And it''s only then did she learns that Xiang Wai and Cloe had gone to the spa a few days ago together. And Cloe even managed to pull Xiang Wai for wine tasting which Xiang Wai said to be an activity of the rich people. "Aunt, I heard you also went somewhere recently," said Xiang Wai. "Where did you go?"

    "Oh, I pulled Zhao to try out the new escape room that opened in the west of the city. It had very good reviews so I wanted to try it too."

    "My aunt and uncle sure are the coolest and follow the trends too. So, how was it?"

    "It was okay. Zhao and I took too little time solving the escape room. We tried one after an another and ended up finishing all of their new themes within one evening. It wasn''t challenging enough."

    Xiang Waiughed loudly when she heard that and seeing the look on her aunt''s face.

 Chapter 1380 Wont Go Easy

    Chapter 1380 Won''t Go Easy

    "I have a suggestion," said Cloe. "Miss Chenyan should let Raelle design an escape room for you. I have faith in my chief that it won''t be easy for anyone to pass her test."

    Seeing the nk look of Raelle, Xiang Wai said, "First, we''ll have to exin what an escape room even is to her."

    Raelle gave her sister a look, "You are really looking down on me now. I have read about it."

    "Again with that read about it. Go out and try it too! I don''t know why your husband also doesn''t push you to go out." n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "He respects my choice of staying indoors."

    "But he isn''t exactly an indoor person though. You should also be nice to him," said Xiang Wai.

    "You''re making me sound like the bad wife."

    "How would I know that? Only a fish knows if the water is cold or warm."

    "Am I fish?"

    "Yes. But you are a piranha!"

    "Yanyan!"

    "Wai, don''t say that about your sister," said Mu Chenyan. "My Elle isn''t a piranha at all. She is so adorable. How can she be a piranha."

    "Doesn''t your conscience ever hurt saying that, Aunt?"

    "It doesn''t," answered Mu Chenyan. "If you are all done eating. Let''s move on to our next activity."

    "We have more?"

    "Oh, darling. We are just getting started!"

    Raelle slumped down in her chair and refused to get up. Her one arm was held by Xiang Wai and the other was held by Cloe who pulled her up and half dragged Raelle with them to the RV again. "Now, where are we going?"

    "We have two options," stated Mu Chenyan. "Now, you can make a choice. First is zip-lining. The second is rock climbing. Choose one."

    "Is there a third option??"

    "No!"

    Raelle went silent and thought about it before deciding, "Then let''s go with rock climbing. It''s too hot outside for zip-lining. I don''t wanna try it."

    "Good choice! We''re gonna have apetition. Whoever wins will be deciding our next activity."

    Raelle''s eyes widened over this suggestion and refused, "No! That''s not fair. It''s my first time even trying rock climbing. Obviously, I''d be the one losing."

    Xiang Wai patted her shoulder saying, "Sister, have some faith in yourself."

    "I have faith in myself but not you. This indoor rock climbing must be a joke to people like you who have gone for real rock climbing in the wild without extensive protective gear."

    Xiang Wai smiled at her in response, "That''s true. It is indeed a joke. Then how about this? I won''t participate. Aunt will not be a part of thepetition either. Only you and Cloe. You two spent your days at your desk staring atputer screens or documents. I''ll give this honor to you both."

    Raelle looked at Cloe and felt like with her fitness level, she could definitely pass Cloe who didn''t even care about her fitness. Cloe was one who had a gym membership, a premium one but only once in a blue moon would she go to a gym. So, there was a high chance that Raelle could win so she could give this a try.

    "Chief, I won''t go easy on you," said Cloe.

    "Try me!" was Raelle''s confident response.

    Cloe onlyughed at her and nodded as if she took it as a joke and nothing else.

    In fact, she really took it as a joke. What Raelle didn''t know was that even thought Cloe didn''t like going to the gym, she would always go rock climbing whenever she had some free time. It made her rx and it also allowed her to separate herself from work. It was one of the sports she not only enjoyed but was very good at too.

    That''s why Raelle was left far behind by Cloe who easily won even though she tried her best to slow down. She felt like she was bullying Raelle right now but thinking about how she had been bullied by this chief for years too, she felt like it was okay. Anyway, Raelle had a great mental fortitude, one loss won''t hurt her ego or anything.

    "You cheated!" said Raelle.

    Cloe chuckled, "I never said I was not good at it."

    "Howe I don''t know you are good at it?" asked Raelle.

    Cloe shrugged, "I offered it to you many times to join me for something fun. You always refused to waste your time on fun things. I could only do it alone."

    Raelle looked at Xiang Wai suspiciously, "Did you already know?"

    Xiang Wai waved her hands trying to prove her innocence, "Sister, you can''t be suspicious of me. I really didn''t know. How can you doubt me like this? I am hurt."

    "You guys have been pretty closetely," Raelle pointed out.

    "Yes, I ept that we have been getting close despite our different interests but I assure you that I never knew that she was good at rock climbing. Why would I want you to lose?"

    "I''ll believe you this once."

    Xiang Wai patted her chest and breathed a sigh of relief. Mu Chenyan looked at these girls ying and missed her best friend. Sadly, Yue Yue wasn''t feeling well today so she didn''t bring her out for fun. Or else, it''d be even better right now. "Okay!" Mu Chenyan pped her hands to get their attention. She passed them the drinks she bought for them and asked, "Since Cloe won, now, she''ll decide the next activity. What''s on your mind, Cloe?"

    "How about a photo scavenger hunt?" suggested Cloe and before Raelle could ask what that was, Cloe exined on her own. "We''ll randomly pick differentndmarks around the city where we have to go and click photos within a specified time. The person whopleted the task first will win."

    "Hey, this sounds interesting," said Xiang Wai. "I''m down for it!"

    Raelle thought about it before saying, "How many ces?"

    "We don''t have that much time so, let''s go with only five. And let''s limit it to within 10-20 kilometers too. If we added the whole city in the range, it''d be toorge. And we are only four."

    "How will we randomly pick thendmarks? And how will we get there?"

    "Of course, we''ll use the phone to decide thendmarks. I''ll y a fast paced video and where you stop it will be your chosen location. Also, since we all used the same RV today. No one is using that to finish the task." She turned to Raelle and added, "And chief, you can''t take this chance to run away too."

 Chapter 1381 Victory

    Chapter 1381 Victory

    Raelle could only sigh mentally when she heard that she couldn''t take this chance to run away. That thought did cross her mind for a second but she chose to curb that thought. As her husband and her father-inw said, these girlies really put a lot of effort into picking up activities so that she could y along and won''t feel ufortable too. She couldn''t just abandon them and drown all their efforts in the water. Raelle didn''t think she was a good person but she was someone who valued the people in her life. And these three women happened to be people she really cared about too. If it was her own mother standing in front of her in ce of these three, she might not have even thought about it for a second before running away but she couldn''t do the same to these three.

    Especially not to Mu Chenyan who raised her. Cloe was one who stuck around her as the most attentive and efficient help which reduced her work load by several degrees and she was thankful for that. As for Xiang Wai, this sister entered her lifeter than the other two but she was still blood-rted. This blood rtion might not mean much to someone like Raelle but she wasn''t willing to dash all of Xiang Wai''s efforts to get close to her either.

    Soon, they picked the fivendmarks in a crude manner. If they had nned it earlier they could have organized this activity properly with a road map and other necessary things but it was randomly decided to go for this scavenger hunt, so they could only make use of these crude manners.

    Everyone pinned the locations of thendmarks on their phone maps and looked at each other with a will to win. Raelle wasn''t willing to lose this time. She just couldn''t. It was enough that she lost so many times today. How could she allow herself to lose any more? Her fighting spirit was on!

    "I forgot to mention, you have to click a photo at thendmark with a certain pose for it to be considered a pass," added Cloe at thest moment and sent the poses to the other three with a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Why didn''t you mention that before?" asked Raelle. Looking at the absurd poses, Raelle felt a headacheing on and the idea of running away wasing back to her. "Why do I think that you added this rule because of me?"

    "Because I did," answered Cloe. "Do you think I don''t understand your brain? You''d take a photo of your hand with a V sign at the chosenndmarks and consider it as being done. Then you''ll tell me that I never mentioned that one had to show their faces in the photos to pass. I know how you love to find loopholes but don''t forget, you trained me in all these years. I am also very articte now."

    "Congrattions," gritted out Raelle.

    "Thank you!" Cloe sent a flying kiss her way making Raelle scrunch up her face and seeing this, Xiang Wai and Mu Chenyanughed out loud.

    "Thank you!" Cloe sent a flying kiss her way making Raelle scrunch up her face and seeing this, Xiang Wai and Mu Chenyanughed out loud.

    "Okay, enough ying around," said Mu Chenyan. "Let''s start now! Find your own rides and I wish you all the best!"

    With 3, 2, and 1 they all rushed away. Raelle looked at Xiang Wai and Cloe hailing a car meanwhile Mu Chenyan patiently waited for a while before she stopped a delivery guy on the motorbike. Raelle couldn''t listen to what she said or how she negotiated but the motorbike ended up with Mu Chenyan in the end and she wooshed away too.

    Only Raelle was left standing where she was as if she was in no hurry but that wasn''t true at all. She wasn''t familiar with the city all too well so she first sat down to look at the map to see all thendmarks and how far apart they were. Finding the closestndmark, she stood up and walked to an elderly couple who were sitting close by. "Hello, do you have a minute?"

    With that, Raelle started chatting with the old couple and found out about the intricate alleyway of the city which can reduce the travel time. Raelle was happy with her findings and immediately went to scan the code of the bicycle to ride it away. She followed the instructions she got from the elderly couple and because of her good memory, she didn''t get lost in the maze of these alleys. In fact, she appeared at her firstndmark within five minutes.

    She happily stopped in front of the angel fountain and rubbed her nose thinking about the pose she had to make. She held up the phone to take a selfie with one hand while her other hand curled up like a cat paw with her lips pouted, she clicked the photo and didn''t even look at how it turned out.

    Raelle would never be able to understand why people seemed to love these poses. Just like this, she leisurely traveled on the bicycle around all thendmarks clicking photos with the help of kind-hearted strangers too.

    It had been a while since she learned to bicycle and never really needed this skill, thankfully, she was athletic and used to exercising regrly too. So, it wasn''t difficult to ride around all on her own at this time, she didn''t even feel tired. After reaching the final destination, she sat inside a cafe to order herself an iced tea because it was too hot outside and she was sweating badly. That was the only bad thing about this whole activity. Why couldn''t it get cloudy or windy? Since she was the only one here yet, it was obvious that she won and Raelle was very happy about it too. Her brain went haywire for a moment and she actually clicked a photo of her iced tea and posted it on Moments with the caption, ''Victory feels good with iced tea.''

    Almost instantly the first person who liked the post was Shui Xian as if he was camping on her Moments and evenmented, "As always! My wife is the best!"

    Hyson: "Xian Ge, it''s enough for her to show off her win, why are you fanning the mes here? Isn''t she conceited enough?"

    Xian: "Go away! Who asked you to speak bad about my wife? Do you want a fight?"N?v(el)B\\jnn

 Chapter 1382 Changing Face

    1382 Changing Face

    Raelle decided to ignore the bickering of these two people in herment section as more and more people of family and friends startedmenting. Raelle was reading through all thements when she heard a shocked voice.

    "How did youe first?" asked Mu Chenyan as she looked at her Raelle who was leisurely sipping on iced tea. She also ordered a peach iced tea for herself and sat down with Raelle. "Shouldn''t I be first? How did youe here? Don''t tell me you called for a helicopter. No, that''s not right, there won''t be enough time for parking and all that."

    "I need to thank you for this victory," answered Raelle.

    "Me?" Mu Chenyan raised her brow in interest. "How so?"

    "Thank you for dragging me out every evening in that certain year to teach me how to ride a bicycle. Even though I kept insisting that it wasn''t a necessary life skill to have, you held a different opinion and insisted on going against my wishes to teach me to ride it. Thank you so much!"

    Mu Chenyanughed at her solemn expression but felt good about thiste gratitude too. She hadn''t forgotten how this girl was so cranky those days about being disturbed by her as she wanted to teach her to ride a bicycle. "You''re telling me, you came first by riding on a bicycle but I lost on a motorbike? Does that even make sense?" asked Mu Chenyan.

    "It does," replied Raelle. "Because speed isn''t everything. You need to work smartly too. The good thing is that none of the four of us are natives of this Kia city which means, it was our first time going to thosendmarks and we are not that familiar with the city''s roads and stuff either. I guess, you might have a little better understanding of this city than all three of usbined. But still, not to the point of it being your advantage. So, I found someone who has lived here all their lives and they told me the secret of the maze of the alleys in this district."

    Mu Chenyan finally understood how she managed to win and smiled helplessly. Indeed, only she would think about patiently finding the optimal way to victory before taking any actions. It was really like her who always nned ahead before moving unlike the rest of them who were only rushing to get here first through speed.

    "Then congrattions," said Mu Chenyan. "My Elle is still the best nner around."

    Raelle gave her a smile in response. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    It took a while before Cloe and Xiang Wai came almost around the same time. Since they were hailing cabs, it was obvious that they''d be stuck in the traffic at this time of the day. Why else would Mu Chenyan prefer a delivery bike over getting a car ride?

    "Who won?" asked Xiang Wai as she gasped for breath as if she ran here.

    "Raelle did," answered Cloe as she showed her phone screen to Xiang Wai where Raelle''s post was disyed ring at her.

    "Damn!" Xiang Wai cursed under her breath. She extended her hand towards Raelle, "Show me proof of your pictures."

    "Why should I start? You all have to do it too," retorted Raelle. "You came first, so we have to check yours first," Xiang Wai sounded so righteous saying that as if there was nothing wrong with her words and she wasn''t just purposely attacking Raelle.

    "No, we should start with the loser," insisted Raelle.

    "No, winner!" argued Xiang Wai.

    "Stop!" Mu Chenyan felt tired of being a mediator for the whole day. Why was it her job to stop arguments today? And why was this job so tiring? No wonder she preferred fighting over talking all her life. Who can talk about peace all the time? "Let''s all put her phones on the table and show the pictures at the same time. Are we clear?"

    "Yes," came the response from the other three. When they were all showing the pictures, it was clear that all of their focus was on Raelle''s screen, and seeing her photos with those cute poses, they all were trying hard to suppress theirughter. "Raelle, how about you send this heart picture to me? I want to keep it as a memento?" Cloe looked at Raelle with a glimmer in her eyes.

    "Me too! I want that cat paw one!" added Xiang Wai.

    "If everyone is having one, I also want that bunny headband one," Mu Chenyan also joined them in asking for a photo.

    Raelle gave them all a look and said, "I never said I was sharing. This dark history will stay with me."

    "Whyyyyy~?" Xiang Wai dragged her word sounding whiny. "They are so cute. It''s a historical moment. Why can''t we have a part of it?"

    "I said, no!" replied Raelle. "Would you send me yours?"

    "YES!" Xiang Wai nodded her head like she was pounding garlic with her head. "I''ll send you all five, don''t even talk about one. You are my only sister. I''m such a generous elder sister, if you ask for it, I''ll give you everything."

    Raelle knew what her intention was by saying but she wasn''t falling for it at all and refused to budge. She wasn''t sending these photos to anyone. Maybe she''d show them to Shui Xian but apart from him, no one else was even allowed to see these photos ever again.

    Her domineering image was seriouslypromised by these photos.

    "Go and order yourself a drink," said Raelle. "Aren''t you thirsty by now? The sun is so hot. It almost turned me into a meat patty, a cooked one!"

    Xiang Waiughed at her words and went to order a drink for herself too.

    As if the weather god heard Raelle''s words, it suddenly started getting darker as clouds came to take over the job of the sun for the day. Raelle feltplicated and looked at the turning weather. Couldn''t it change when she was about to be cooked out there? Why was it changing face now?

    Check out my new book: "Transmigration: Miss Liu''s Journey to the Past"

    XiaoMeeHee

    Creator''s Thought

 Chapter 1383 Infectious Joy

    1383 Infectious Joy

    "The weather god has something against us," Cloe put forward her opinion once she noticed the change in the weather outside. Although this change was weed after the sultry summer day, it was quitete for these women who ran around under the burning sun earlier.

    "Or maybe it''s you," said Raelle. "After all, you were the one who suggested scavenger hunt. So, it''s definitely you who has something against all of us. If I got tanned before my wedding, I''de looking for you with a knife!" N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Cloe leaned back to keep a distance from the scary boss and said, "When did you be so image conscience?"

    "It''s my wedding!" reminded Raelle. "Even if I don''t care about such things on a daily basis, I have to look like the most beautiful bride on my wedding day for my husband. That is also a form of respect towards my partner and it also shows how much I value him and our rtionship and our wedding day."

    "I miss the days when you barely spoke," tsked Cloe. "Lately, you like giving long exnations."

    "Don''t look for a fight," said Xiang Wai as she came back with her drink. "What are we doing next? Can I decide on the next activity?"

    Looking at the glimmer in her eyes, Raelle was the first one to refuse, "No! I don''t trust you."

    "Sister, don''t be so mean to me all the time. Where else are you gonna find a heroic elder sister like me?"

    "Who said I needed a heroic sister?"

    "Then? What kind of a sister do you want? Tell me, I''ll change."

    Raelle gave her aplicated look before shaking her head, "Who asked you to change? Are you that easy? You should insist on being your true self whether I like it or not."

    "I can do this much to make it up to my sister."

    "To make up for what? For hating me unreasonably for years? For noting to find me for years? For forgetting my existence or wrongfully ming me for your broken family? Or for just being you?"

    Xiang Wai bit her lips before she lowered her head and put the straw in her mouth to take a sip of the cold drink. "Maybe I want to make up for all that."

    "Who asked you to?" asked Raelle. "Did I ever say I have anyints?"

    "But doesn''t you not having anyints mean that I mean nothing?"

    "No wonder it took you so many years to stabilize your rtionship with Zhai Yanjun. Stop overthinking. I don''t have anyints because I don''t like whining. Everyone has their own reasons. Yes, you had unreasonable and inexplicable dislike towards me for years but deep down, you also knew that you were wronging me. You just needed an outlet for your pent-up emotions. I became that outlet. I don''t care about your thoughts because when we met, the only wrong thing you did was to lock me up for investigation!"

    Xiang Wai wrinkled her nose saying, "I thought you forgot about that."

    "I don''t forget," replied Raelle. "Stop thinking so much. If I had anyints with you, you wouldn''t even be here. If I didn''t care about you, you wouldn''t be my bridesmaid too."

    Xiang Wai smiled at her and said, "My sister is so adorable."

    "Shut up!"

    "Oh. Then can we follow my lead?"

    Raelle gave her a look and Xiang Wai jutted out her lower lip and made a pitiful look which actually didn''t suit her image at all but Raelle felt helpless against her too so she nodded, "Sure. It''s not my day anyway. As long as you don''t take me to nightclubs."

    "Alright," agreed Xiang Wai. "Then let''s y in the rain."

    "What?" asked Raelle.

    Xiang Wai pointed outside where rain came so unexpectedly and one could hear pitter-patter outside the window. "Rain. Let''s get wet."

    "Didn''t you have enough fun in the water park?"

    "How is that the same?" asked Xiang Wai. "Sister, have you ever gotten wet in the rain just for the sake of fun? Don''t answer because I know the answer is no. So, I''ll let you experience the joy of rain sttering on your face, especially after such a hot day." She held Raelle''s hand and pulled her outside on the street.

    Raelle looked at the kids who were also ying in the rain and then at Xiang Wai before sighing mentally. Was she supposed to have all the experiences on this day? Raelle actually did not want to get wet but here she was standing on the cobblestone street lined with quaint shops and cafes, their awnings providing little shelter from the gentle, steady rain. The sky was muted gray, and puddles were beginning to form on the uneven surface of the street. The rain brought out the fresh, earthy scent to the air, mingling with the faint aroma of coffee and baked goods from a nearby bakery.

    Raelle wasposed and reserved while Xiang Wai had a youthful spirit despite being the elder sister. Raelle watched Xiang Wai enjoying herself in the rain, looking carefree and yful, embodying the essence of a child at heart.

    "Wai, you are going to catch a cold," said Raelle.

    "Sister, stop being so prudent. Close your eyes, look at the sky, and let the rain kiss your face." Xiang Wai twirled around, her arms outstretched, herughter ringing through the air.

    Raelle had to say that Xiang Wai''s joy seemed quite infectious right now. She felt the rain soaking through her hair and clothes. She followed Xiang Wai''s words and really closed her eyes as she turned her face upward and felt the raindrops falling on her face gently and steadily.

    She didn''t realize how or when a smile tugged at the corner of her lips and she felt the weight of her reserved nature lifting off. Thinking of something, Raelle being mischievous for once actually kicked at the puddle herself, sending waves of water at Xiang Wai who was left shocked by this turn of events.

 Chapter 1384 Childlike Joy

    1384 Childlike Joy

    Watching Raelle acting like a kid, Mu Chenyanughed heartily and had a content look on her face. She never thought she would one day be able to see this side of Raelle. She was more than happy to see this carefree side of Raelle who knew how to tease, how to have fun, and how to finally walk out of her shell.

    The original intention of moving back to their home country was just that Elder Xiang missed thend he was born and raised in. Since he was old now and became a lot more nostalgic with time, Raelle didn''t say a word when they suddenly asked to change the country.

    Even if Raelle had to work extra hard to shift the focus of her business here, she was willing to make an effort for her grandfather as always. Who knew a lot of things would change once they came back to the country, even though it was impossible to get back the lost times or people, Mu Chenyan believed they found a lot more aftering back to the country.

    She did not regreting back to their homnd as this ce not only gave her back her brother, her nemesis sh now-husband, her niece and nephew, but this ce also gave her a big surprise in the form of Raelle''s smiles and emotions that she never understood before.

    She was really thankful for all these changes.

    She watched as theughter of Cloe and Xiang Wai blended with the sound of the rain while Raelle only smiled silently. Their childlike joy was so infectious that even Mu Chenyan found herselfpletely immersed in the moment, forgetting about ce and time.

    A few pedestrians hurried past, some shaking their heads with bemusement, others smiling at the sight of these women ying in the rain. Even a teenage couple holding hands under the shared umbre stopped for a moment to watch, their smiles growing wider.

    Soon, the teenage girl extended her hand to catch the raindrops and sshed it on her boyfriend''s hand as she giggled happily.

    Mu Chenyan didn''t know how long she stood under the awning of the cafe to watch the scenes unfolding before her eyes. It brought herfort and peace as if all the tiredness of these days was being washed away despite her beingpletely dry and clean. She watched the three women slow down, breathless, soaked, but happy.

    She first borrowed an umbre from the shop owner before walking down the alley towards the RV which had been parked at the corner waiting for them. She got inside to put out towels and clean clothes for the three of them before going back.

    "That''s enough for the day," she called out to them. "You all will catch a cold at this rate."

    The three of them came to stand beside her and Mu Chenyan dutifully passed them towels and asked them to dry themselves. Then she pushed them to go to an empty room behind the cafe to change their clothes. She even asked the owner to prepare ginger tea for all of them and did not let any of them go without drinking the ginger tea.

    "As always, Yanyan is the meticulous one,"mented Raelle.

    "My only failure in life is that I wasn''t able to raise a girl who knew how to take care of herself."

    "Are you talking about me?" asked Raelle.

    "Or else?" asked Mu Chenyan in response. "You are the only one here whocks the basic survival skills."

    "I am getting better," argued Raelle. "Yes, you are," agreed Mu Chenyan. "It was my oversight that I didn''t push you to learn those survival skills because I thought it wasn''t needed when I''m around. But I forgot that no one stays with you for life."

    Raelle nced at her and asked, "Yanyan, why are you getting sentimental?" n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Maybe because you are getting married."

    "But I married so long ago."

    "That''s different. This time, it''s really hitting me differently."

    "Should I apologize for always worrying you?" asked Raelle. "I took too much of your time. Half a life of yours was given to me. I don''t think I''d be able to pay back."

    Mu Chenyan touched her damp hair saying, "Who is asking for a payback? Let''s not discuss this or I might end up crying and you''ll remind me how leaking tears can get me dehydrated."

    "I''m not wrong though."

    "When are you wrong?" retorted Mu Chenyan as she pinched her cheek lovingly. "Do you wanna know what ourst task of the day is?"

    "Of course, there is more," groaned Raelle. "I think I''m tired."

    "After getting wet in the rain, people do get drowsy. At least that happened with me but you have to hold it in. We don''t have time for a nap," said Mu Chenyan as she touched Raelle''s face. "This is thest one. Then I''ll let you go back."

    "Okay, what is it?" asked Raelle and even the other two also looked at Mu Chenyan since they didn''t know what was thest activity as well. So, all of them were eagerly looking at Mu Chenyan waiting for her answer right now.

    "Finish your ginger tea and I''ll take you there," answered Mu Chenyan.

    They hurriedly blew on the tea in their respective cups and gulped it down even if it tasted too spicy they didn''t stop and got done with it to move on to the next phase of this bachelorette party.

    Seeing that they were done and even the rain also stopped outside, Mu Chenyan beckoned them all to follow her. After walking out of the cafe once more, they found the atmosphere to be even more pleasant after the rain that washed down the air and made the sky so clear and lovely.

    They didn''t go far from the cafe and stopped in front of a shop. Once they smelled the delicious aroma floating out of the shop and looked at the name of the shop, the three of them looked at Mu Chenyan in surprise.

    Please check out my new book, "Transmigration: Miss Liu''s Journey To The Past"

    XiaoMeeHee

 Chapter 1385 A Way To Get Close

    1385 A Way To Get Close

    All four women stood in front of a family-run bakery nestled in the heart of this street. The exterior exuded a warm and inviting atmosphere, with a ssic storefront that featuredrge, mullioned windows that allowed passersby to catch a glimpse of the delicious treats inside. The windows were adorned withce curtains and seasonal decorations, creating a homey feel that changes throughout the year.

    Above the door, a vintage-style wooden sign was perched, proudly disying the name of the bakery in elegant, handwritten lettering. Flower boxes beneath the windows overflow with colorful blooms that had just been washed down by the rain making them look even more vibrant after the rain shower.

    The entrance, marked by a dark oak door with a brass handle, opened to a small, covered porch where a couple of wrought-iron tables and chairs invite customers to sit and enjoy their purchases al fresco. A chalkboard easel stood beside the door, cheerfully announcing the day''s specials in vibrant chalk colors.

    Raelle wasn''t able to break out of her surprise until Mu Chenyan patted her head saying, "I heard my Elle wants to learn how to bake a cake. Why not say that to me?"

    "Because you did not want me to get close to the kitchen," reminded Raelle.

    "Are you forgetting the reason why?" asked Mu Chenyan. "You scalded your hand while trying to take out a bowl of soup to the dining table yourself the first time you stepped inside the kitchen. The second time, you didn''t even have to step inside the kitchen, you managed to injure your hand with a fork! That''s a fork! Not a knife but you''re capable enough to injure your hand with it. Moving on, we were making dumplings and I felt the salt was a little less in the filling. I asked you to get salt from the kitchen and add it to the filling. Such a simple task but you still managed to mix up salt with sugar and we had to eat sweet dumplings for New Year that certain year. Also..."

    Raelle put her hand over Mu Chenyan''s mouth to stop her from continuing to speak about her dark history. She refused to ept this dark history. It''s not like she made any out-of-the-ordinary mistakes. All of these weremon things that anyone could get wrong. She obviously did not want Mu Chenyan to share these things with Cloe and Xiang Wai who were listening with relish right now.

    "Aunt, continue!" said Xiang Wai as she was more than just eager to know more about the young Raelle who was also like other kids making dumb mistakes. "No, she won''t be continuing anything," said Raelle as she gave a warning look to Xiang Wai and then looked back at Mu Chenyan with a raised brow. "Am I right, Yanyan?"

    Mu Chenyan was amused by her desire to not share any of her dark history so sheplied as always, "Yes, I won''t be continuing. It''s your day, you call the shots."

    Raelle made a face, "I haven''t been calling the shots since the morning though."

    "But you still had fun, no?" asked Mu Chenyan knowingly. "Besides, aren''t we ending this day at this bakery? This is ording to your wishes. I will personally teach you how to make a cake."

    Raelle forgot all about her dark history and nodded her head, "I wanna learn. I promise I''ll be a good student. You know how good of a student I had been."

    Mu Chenyan''s lips twitched when she was reminded of how good of a student Raelle was all her teachers had a headache with this girl who asked too many questions and always made them go crazy with her logical and reasonable exnations.

    Even in the school of special kids, she was considered an anomaly!

    But Mu Chenyan did not dare to say anything of the sort. Anyway, she had all the patience in the world reserved for just her dearest Elle. No one else would get this treatment from Mu Chenyan.

    "I''d also like to learn," Xiang Wai chimed in.

    "Me too!" added Cloe.

    "But you both seem to know how to bake a cake already," reminded Mu Chenyan.

    "However, we didn''t learn from you," they retorted righteously.

    "Let''s go inside. We have to be done here before dinner. After all, my Elle still has to catch a flight," said Mu Chenyan.

    Raelle agreed with this and she was the first one to step inside the bakery. Taking a step inside, she was immediately enveloped in theforting aroma of freshly baked bread, sweet pastries, and brewing coffee. The wooden floor, polished to a warm glow, creaked slightly underfoot, adding to the bakery''s nostalgic ambiance.

    To her right, a long, ss disy counter stretched out, showcasing an array of beautifully arranged baked goods. From crusty baguettes and sourdough loaves to delicate croissants, muffins, and tarts, every item was a testament to the bakers'' skill and dedication.

    Raelle took in everything in front of her eyes with the curiosity of a learner as if she was seeing the world for the first time. It was this childlike curiosity that could dilute her aloof temperament and make her seem rather down-to-earth.

    The others didn''t have the same curiosity as hers as they found their way towards the cozy seating area with a mix of wooden tables and cushioned chairs. Each table was adorned with a small vase of fresh flowers and a flickering tea light candle, creating an intimate and rxing environment.

    Mu Chenyan went straight to the back kitchen and even the attendant didn''t stop her. It was either because she had made prior arrangements or because she knew the shop owner. When Mu Chenyan came out of the back kitchen with a plump woman looking rather chummy, Raelle figured out that her second guess was spot on as Mu Chenyan seemed to be very familiar with the bakery''s owner.

    "Elle, meet my old friend, Xiao Xu," introduced Mu Chenyan. "She is the owner of this bakery. She inherited it from her father back in the day. Even though she is a woman, the fact that her father bypassed his only son and left this treasured bakery to Xiao Xu already says a lot about her talent in baked goods."

    "Hello, Ms Xiao," said Raelle. "I''m Raelle.

    "How can I not know you," was the response of the plump woman whose name was Xiao Xu. She looked at Raelle deeply before moving her eyes to the other two. "And you must be Xiang Wai and Cloe, right?" Thetter two nodded and said hello to her. "You have such beautiful nieces."

    Mu Chenyan guffawed at her, "After all, they are my nieces. Haven''t you heard that nieces often follow after their aunts? My nieces are beautiful like me."

    "I see that you are still a stuck-up," said Xiao Xu as she gave this old friend a weird look. "Am I wrong though?"

    Xiao Xu rolled her eyes at Mu Chenyan, "Aren''t you embarrassed in front of your nieces?"

    "Never!"

    "Right, I forgot that your face is thicker than the Wall of China!"

    "Hey! That''s going too far."

    "I don''t think so."

    Raelle watched them going back and forth, understanding why Mu Chenyan liked watching her bicker with Xiang Wai so much. It seemed quite entertaining. But it also showed the close connection between the two people. It seems bickering was a way to get close to people. This was new information, she had to note it down in her mind''s hard drive. She''d need this information to teach her future child. N?v(el)B\\jnn

 Chapter 1386 Science Behind A Cake

    1386 Science Behind A Cake

    After some chit-chat with an old friend, Mu Chenyan took the girlies to the back kitchen getting to the stage that Raelle had been waiting for. There was a separate station that seemed to have been prepared for them and Xiao Xu left them with all the required equipment but did not interfere.

    Although Mu Chenyan could have taught Raelle at home, it''s not like they didn''t have all the equipment and ingredients avable but she thought there should be a sense of ceremony to everything.

    "Do you know why I brought you here for your first-time baking experience?" asked Mu Chenyan to Raelle who shook her head. "Because my first time baking a cake also happened in this very bakery." Raelle opened her eyes wide at her. "My godmother brought me here. We took a ne to get to Kia City just so she could bring me to her favorite bakery that stood the storm of time. Xiao Xu''s father was the baker whom she really admired because she couldn''t seem to bake like him despite putting all her effort into it. So, she dragged me here coaxing me that it was for my sake but in truth, she just wanted me to learn well from him so that I could bake whatever she wanted to eat for her."

    Raelle''s lips curled up listening to the story and the other two also couldn''t helpughing. Mu Chenyan sighed, "My godmother was definitely yful. But my purpose for teaching you how to bake a cake is pure! I have no hidden agenda but I''d still it if I could taste your first cake. It''d mean a lot to me."

    "Who else deserves to eat my first cake apart from you?" asked Raelle.

    "But you certainly aren''t learning it for me. Before this, you never showed any interest in these household matters. Even if I asked you to check the monthly ounts book of the family, you''d refuse despite your love for numbers."

    Raelle rubbed her nose guiltily as she really had never shown any interest in things rted to their household matters. She didn''t need to do so as she always thought there was Mu Chenyan to handle this stuff. She only needed to focus on things that she liked and no one could force her to do other things.

    Mu Chenyan helped tie the apron around Raelle''s waist and rubbed her head saying, "It doesn''t matter how you suddenly developed this interest. The fact that you are willing to pay attention to these mundane things already means a lot to me. Now, let''s get started with the introduction. We are making a simple vani cake today. We need certain equipment for baking a cake." She pointed at all the equipment one by one as she introduced them, "These are mixing bowls, measuring cups, and spoons which makes things very easy for beginners like you. This is a whisk but we''ll be using an electric mixer instead because I don''t wanna tire you. Also, we have..."

    She continued to introduce and Raelle listened attentively as she nodded too. "Have you noted them down," asked Xiang Wai. "You are doubting my memory!" retorted Raelle.

    Xiang Wai smiled as she said, "I don''t dare doubt your memory. Learn well. I am waiting for your masterpiece."

    Raelle gave her a look before focusing on listening to Mu Chenyan who had moved on to the introduction of ingredients now. "We are gonna use all-purpose flour to make the cake."

    "Why?" asked Raelle. "There seems to be different kinds of flour like wheat flour, rice flour, corn flour, and so on. Why must we use all-purpose flour?"

    Xiang Wai and Cloe shared a look when they heard this question from Raelle and looked at Mu Chenyan who didn''t seem surprised by this question at all. In fact, Mu Chenyan looked like she had long expected this question from Raelle and she was all prepared too.

    "All-purpose flour has moderate protein content, typically around 10-12% which is very crucial because when flour is mixed with water, the proteins like glutenin and gliadinbine to form gluten. This right amount of gluten gives cakes enough structure to hold together but not so much that the cake bes tough or chewy..."

    The more Xiang Wai listened, the weirder she felt inside and suddenly said to Cloe, "I understand why my mother said that only Mu Chenyan could raise Raelle."

    "Why?" asked Cloe.

    "Because who else would be so patient enough to learn the science behind baking a cake just to teach a ''big child'' who loves to question everything? I don''t think I have that patience. I''m in awe right now. I can finally see and understand what kind of struggle Aunt Chenyan must have gone through because of Raelle. This girl needs answers for every little thing. When I learned how to bake a cake, I didn''t give a damn about why they used all-purpose flour or baking soda or eggs. I only cared about how I''m gonna get a perfect cake."

    "That''s what makes you and Raelle different," said Cloe. "She is slow with some things because she needs to understand them properly before taking a step further. So, the step that takes us five minutes might take her thirty. We might be saving time, but she won''t be the loser either. Because if something goes wrong, she''d have better understanding of each and every step to figure out where things went wrong and how to fix them too."

    "You are indeed right," agreed Xiang Wai. "My sister sure is unique."

    "You ever had a doubt?" asked Cloe.

    "No, how can I doubt that too?"

    Both of them also started preparing their own ingredients to bake the cake of their own choice. Since they didn''t need to learn, they didn''t have to follow the steps of the vani cake which was too simple to both of them. Instead, they both found a teacher to learn a new vor they found outside in the disy cab.

    You can check out my new book, "Transmigration: Miss Liu''s Journey To The Past"

    XiaoMeeHee N?v(el)B\\jnn

 Chapter 1387 Have Influence

    1387 Have Influence

    Xiang Wai had always thought that the actors in dramas were being too dramatic for visual effect when they had flour on their faces. But only today she came to a realization that there were indeed people in real who were clumsy enough to get flour on their faces and the one live example was her sister.

    She never thought that the organized and well-prepared Raelle would be so clumsy in the kitchen. If Mu Chenyan hadn''t been following her every step of the way, Xiang Wai would have no doubt that Raelle would have created a disaster. So intelligence had nothing to do with being a kitchen killer, eh?

    Xiang Wai looked at Raelle who had flour on her cheeks and finally managed to mix the cake batter. She looked so adorable like this that Xiang Wai wanted to take some photos but couldn''t do so with her own hands full right now. Besides, she was certain that she if clicked a photo right now, Raelle would not let her go. "I never thought I''d live to this day,"mented Cloe as she put her own cake into the oven. "My omnipotent boss is actually so clumsy right now. What a sight! I have tomit this to memory as a reminder that no one is perfect. Even Raelle Xiang has shorings."

    "Ever her shorings are cute like her," was Xiang Wai''s answer. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Cloe''s lips twitched, "Put off your sister filter and see clearly."

    "I''m fine like this," said Xiang Wai.

    "Now, let''s allow the cake to bake for about 30 minutes in this preheated oven," Mu Chenyan was saying to Raelle who finally managed to get the cake into the oven. Even though there wasn''t that much to do when baking a cake, Raelle found it more difficult than dealing with work. "We are done?" asked Raelle.

    "Not yet," Mu Chenyan burst her bubble instantly. "As the cake is in the oven, we''ll start preparing the frost and decoration."

    "Oh," was the only response Raelle as she followed the next steps for making the frosting.

    Finally, after thirty minutes they took out the cake and checked it with a toothpick. Seeing the satisfied smile on Mu Chenyan''s face, Raelle rxed. It seems this was a sess! But she didn''t dare to take the credit as Raelle was self-aware of how much she weighed. She knew she''d never be able to make this cake without Mu Chenyan''s help. But she was still content with this sess. At least, now she was familiar with the process so the next time won''t be as much of a disaster as it could have been. She happily decorated the cake with Mu Chenyan and took a photo of it.

    She didn''t share it on her Moments as she wanted to save this first forter. She wanted to surprise Shui Xian so she couldn''t possibly let him know that she learned to make a cake for him. The surprise wouldn''t be fun anymore if she posted the picture now.

    So, she decided to keep it a secret for now.

    Raelle cut the cake after taking a photo and gave it to Mu Chenyan, "Yanyan, you taste it and tell me how is it?"

    Mu Chenyan smiled in pleasure as she felt aplished right now. Her Elle offered the first piece of her hard work to her. Howforting was that!

    "Thank you, darling! You''re the best. The cake you made must also be the best," said Mu Chenyan without hesitation.

    "Aunt, don''t inte her ego by throwing yourpliments around so arbitrarily. One should be responsible with words," said Xiang Wai.

    "Wai, focus on your cake."

    "I can shut up if I have some cake in my mouth," retorted Xiang Wai and it was clear that she wanted a piece of cake from Raelle right now.

    Raelle nced at her before offering her a piece as she desired which almost made Xiang Wai jump in joy. Who knew one day she''d be able to taste the cake made by her little sister? What a blessing! This day couldn''t have been better than this!

    She nned to note this day in her mobile calendar and celebrate it every year from now on. Even if it seemed excessive, she personally didn''t think so at all.

    Since even Xiang Wai got a piece, how could Cloe not get one? Then Raelle took another piece for herself and tasted it. Because of herck of interest in different vors, Raelle was the worst person for food review so she didn''t even want toment on the cake she made because she couldn''t trust her own tastebuds.

    "I think it''s a sess,"mented Cloe while the other two didn''t even bother talking and continued to eat the cake in silence. "Chief, you have my approval."

    "I also think I did a good job," replied Raelle. "Even though this is the simplest cake, I feel like I aplished something."

    "I think the real aplishment belongs to Miss Mu," said Cloe. "Only she can teach you how to bake a cake. I''m very d we didn''t listen to you the other night and took you to a cooking ss or you''d have made the teacher go crazy."

    "I don''t see you going crazy after spending years with me."

    "Chief, look carefully. I have lost a part of myself." Cloe smiled at her and added, "But I''m very d about losing that part of me. I need to share this joy with others. I am gonna make the whole secretarial department jealous showing them how much I am valued by their boss. I even got to eat the cake made personally by Raelle Xiang. This is worth bragging about for a lifetime."

    "You have be dramatic these days,"mented Raelle.

    "I guess thepany of people does have an influence on you," replied Cloe as she gave Xiang Wai a look but thankfully, Xiang Wai didn''t hear her as she was too busy enjoying the cake in her hand which was actually nothing special. After all, it was a simple vani cake, how special could it possibly be?

    But it meant a lot to Xiang Wai who even forgot about her own cake right now.

    Please check out my new book, "Transmigration: Miss Liu''s Journey To The Past"

    XiaoMeeHee

 Chapter 1388 Reassure Him

    1388 Reassure Him

    After spending a fulfilling and tiring day, Raelle came back to find her husband who was waiting for her in the airport''s VVIP lounge. Sitting on thefortable lounge sofa, Shui Xian seemed to be focused on the tablet screen with a slight frown etched between his brows.

    Thinking of something, Raelle slowed down her movements and even stopped the assistant from speaking. She walked behind Shui Xian and covered his eyes.

    Shui Xian''s vision suddenly darkened and he felt the touch of soft, familiar hands carrying the familiar scent of Raelle''s hand lotion. But he still went along with her as he asked, "Who?"

    Raelle purposely sweetened her voice as she asked, "Take a guess."

    Shui Xian''s lips curled up in amusement and his hand covered her delicate ones as he said, "Raelle."

    Raelle put down her hands and hugged him from behind saying, "How did you guess?" N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Who else woulde here except you?" asked Shui Xian in return. He rubbed her head adding, "It''s not like you to be so yful so I was a little surprised. Besides, I know your smell. I can never make a mistake when ites to you."

    Raelle raised her brows at him nuzzled against his cheek saying, "You are showing off."

    "I am," he epted without any hesitation. "Why wouldn''t I show off?" His voice lowered and became deeper, giving it a charming and seductive touch. "I have left a mark on every inch of your skin. I don''t think there is anyone who can be more familiar with you than me."

    Raelle buried her head in his neck and smiled to herself. She did not feel shy about his explicit words. She wasn''t the shy person between the two of them from the beginning. She was always open and honest. She''d do whatever she felt right and it didn''t matter to her what others had to say about her behavior. Time and ce were never her consideration too.

    "Come here and sit with me," said Shui Xian.

    Raelle moved from the back of the sofa to the front and wanted to sit down but Shui Xian held her wrist and tugged. The pull made her sit on his thighs and she instinctively hugged his neck and looked at his mischievous smile making her not know what to say. Shui Xian''s index finger brushed Raelle''s nose as he inquired, "Did you have fun?"

    "Fun!" she answered.

    "What did you do?" he asked further as his hands wrapped around her waist, holding her firmly in hisp. Raelle shared the day''s details with him carefully as if by doing so, she''d be able to include him in her day. Except for the experience of baking a cake, she shared everything with him without hiding a single detail. And Shui Xian, as always, listened to her attentively and responded from time to time too. Seeing her lively and spirited look, he was d that he made the right decision of nning the trick with Mu Chenyan instead of sneaking to Country G with Raelle early. If they had taken the flight in the morning, how would Raelle have this new experience and memories? He believed his trick was worth it.

    He pinched her nose lovingly, "My wifey had a lot of fun, eh? I was all alone waiting for her to remember me but she was busy enjoying herself too much."

    "Whose fault is it?" retorted Raelle. "Just because I am not ming you, doesn''t mean I don''t understand that you purposely tricked me."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and cursed himself mentally for bringing up this topic. Wasn''t it good to let her just forget all about it? What was he even thinking by reminding her of his role in this y?

    "I did it for your own good," he said righteously. "As I said before, I want you to experience everything before deciding whether you like it or not. Don''t have preconceived notions. Yes, bachelorette parties usually have spa treatments, wine tastings, and all kinds of self-pampering activities but Yanyan knew that wasn''t something for you, so she decided to create her style of bachelorette party which was unique and fun. Isn''t it good that you gave it a chance? Now, you know that it was worth it, no?"

    Raelle agreed with him without any argument as she had no argument to make right now.

    "Why do you smell so sweet?" asked Shui Xian as he sniffed. "It seems like cream... Cake? Where did you go to get this smell on you?"

    Raelle pursed her lips. She was wearing the same clothes that she wore while baking the cake. She came straight to the airport from there, so she didn''t get a chance to clean up. Who knew she''d have the scents of baked goods stuck on her? Even worse was that Shui Xian''s nose picked up these aromas so easily too.

    "Oh, it must be from the cafe," she answered while dodging her eyes. She had no experience in lying. At most, she could hide things from people for a while. But lying wasn''t her thing. Especially with Shui Xian. She was the first believer in having a transparent rtionship. Now, she was the one lying and it made her feel ufortable too.

    "Maybe it''s from there," Shui Xian nodded to himself in understanding and didn''t continue the topic. The reason was simple, he had noticed her avoidance and since she did not clear it up, it meant she didn''t want to tell him. So, he decided to pretend like it didn''t matter. He''d know when he was supposed to know. "Are you tired? Do you wanna take a nap?"

    "When are we flying out?" she asked him as she yawned. She was indeed tired today after so much physical activity. Her mind was used to high-intensity work but her body wasn''t. Even if she kept the habit of exercising all her life, it wouldn''t change the fact that she was an office worker who spent most of her day on the chair in her office.

    This kind of ying in a water park, cycling around the city, and baking a cake were all things that she hadn''t done before. So, it exhausted her body and she did not wish to even move right now. Even if it wasn''t the time for her to go to bed yet, she still wanted to lie down and take a nap right now.

    "Soon," responded Shui Xian. "We''ll board in fifteen minutes. You rest against me in the meantime."

    As Raelle had no wish or motivation to move right now, she immediatelyid her head on his shoulder and closed her eyes. She didn''t n to sleep but just wanted to rest her eyes for a while. Shui Xian looked at her face lovingly and brushed away the hair that fell on her face. His other hand gently caressed her back in a slow but calming motion. Raelle felt peace just lying like this, held in his arms, and even had the illusion that she was about to sleep. Her hand went to his hair and kept ying with his hair with her eyes closed. Seeing that it was time to board, Shui Xian called out to her in a whisper, "Baby, are you awake?"

    "Hmm..." she hummed in response and slowly opened her eyes which were filled with sleep now.

    Shui Xian''s heart melted just seeing her lying this. It made her seem like a soft kitten rather than a wild and fierce cat that she usually was. It tickled his heart and made him want to ravage her right there and then but he had to control his urges as it wasn''t the time and ce for this.

    "Can you walk? Or should I carry you?" he asked in a soft voice as if he was talking to a little kid, afraid of startling him.

    Raelle rubbed her eyes and looked around before saying, "I''ll walk."

    "Okay," Shui Xian sounded rather disappointed but he still went along with her wishes.

    Both of them boarded the private jet one after the other and waited to take off. "Do you want to wash up?" inquired Shui Xian. "You can go clean up and change if you want to."

    Raelle looked down at her clothes and decided to do so. Shui Xian gave some instructions to the staff before he sat down to wait for Raelle. When Raelle came out Shui Xian offered her a cup with unknown stuff inside. Raelle raised her brows at him.

    "Drink this. It''s a cold medicine brew. You yed in the rain today. It''s better to take precautions."

    "I drank the ginger tea," she told him.

    "That''s good but double security is better than the single one, don''t you agree?"

    Raelle sat down and took the cup from his hand. He was thinking about her and she did not want to let him down either. It was just the cold medicine, since he made the effort to ask someone to bring it on their flight, she could at least drink it for his sake. It was just to reassure him anyway.

 Chapter 1389 Unreasonable Wife

    1389 Unreasonable Wife

    "Do you want to take a nap?" asked Shui Xian to Raelle when she was done drinking the cold medicine brew. "You can rest in the bedroom."

    "Don''t want to go there," she replied. Shui Xian smiled at her helplessly and fixed thefortable chair to turn it into a bed for her to lie down. "Just lie down here to rest then." He called a flight attendant to ask for a nket and covered her with it, "You had a lot of fun today, it''s time to sleep for a while."

    "What are you gonna do?" she asked. "I''ll look at you," he replied seriously. "That''s my favorite thing to do."

    Raelle smiled at him andy down before closing her eyes. But soon, she opened her eyes and stretched out her hand towards him. Shui Xian held her hand into his and said, "I''m right here. Go to sleep. Between the two of us, I''m the clingy one, don''t steal my job from me." n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Raelle didn''t say anything in response to his nonsense and slowly closed her eyes. Maybe because she was really tired, she ended up sleeping and her breathing slowed down. Shui Xian nced at her sleeping face and rubbed her cheeks lightly. He did not want to move his hand from her cheek but he was afraid of disturbing her too. But before he could pull away his hand, she rubbed her face against his palm like a lovely kitten which softened Shui Xian''s heart.

    "Why are you looking so soft today?" asked Shui Xian in a soft voice. "Usually, you''re the fierce one. But today, you seem so soft that it''s unbelievable. You''re making me want to rub you into my bones."

    As he had to tell her, he really just stared at her face as she slept with nothing else to do. He didn''t even feel bored. No one knew what he was thinking about but the way he looked at Raelle was enviable. Since it wasn''t the usual time for her to sleep, Raelle only took a power nap of a little over twenty minutes and woke up naturally. But when she noticed how she was holding both hands of Shui Xian, she pursed her lips and looked at him in dissatisfaction.

    "Why don''t you just pull your hands away? Isn''t it ufortable?"

    "Nope," he responded. "I can never pull my hand out of yours on my own initiative. It''s not possible. I don''t want to let you go."

    "We are an old couple now," reminded Raelle to him. "You should stop doing this."

    "Are we an old couple? We are just getting married!"

    Raelle gave him a look, "Hubby, you sure are getting into the role of a newlywed."

    Shui Xian shrugged his shoulders, "No one can find faults with this behavior as we are indeed about to be newlyweds. So, don''t even think of calling us an old couple."

    "We''ll be one eventually," she reminded him.

    "No! I refuse!" he firmly refused it. "Even if I have to go through a wedding every year, I''ll do it to maintain the sweetness and status of the newlyweds."

    "That''s too troublesome and tiring! And a waste of time."

    Shui Xian''s face fell and he gave her an aggrieved look, "Won''t you even do this much for me?"

    Raelle knew what he was doing so she didn''t fall for it at all. She shook her head at him and stopped paying attention to him. But when she wanted to pull her hand out of his, he refused to let go making her look at him in question. "What? nning on holding this hand for the rest of the flight?" asked Raelle in amusement.

    "Oh?"

    "After all, my n is to hold it for the rest of my life."

    Raelle really wanted to roll her eyes at him but she couldn''t do so either. Not with him. There was a sweet smile on her lips that she didn''t even notice. In fact, she didn''t realize that she was smiling more and more naturally when she was around Shui Xian. Even his most silly and cheesy words were enough to make her feel sweet.

    The girl who couldn''t tell her favorite vor seemed to have fallen for the sweet taste of her husband''s words. Or maybe she liked the sweetness in his mouth more.

    Both of them chatted for a while before the flight attendant asked about what they wanted for dinner. Shui Xian immediately made an order and set up the table for Raelle all on his own without letting anyone else work. But Raelle didn''t find it strange as Shui Xian was always eager to serve her. He thought he wasn''t much useful in her life at most times so he would try to do whatever he could.

    Raelle noticed a dissatisfied and unfriendly gaze but didn''t pay attention to it for now as her entire focus was on Shui Xian right now. When the dinner was served, both of them ate it but unlike before where Raelle would refuse to even say a word while eating, now she''d take a moment to answer Shui Xian''s words from time to time.

    Even though while doing so, she would stop her eating movements she''d still speak which was something that was impossible in the past. Raelle looked up at the stewardess who was standing by their side but her eyes were glued to Shui Xian and her eyes condensed. She might be unable to notice the difference before but she was very capable of doing so now. Maybe a woman was always intuitive. She could tell when another person had eyes on her man.

    Just like right now, Raelle could tell the obsession in the stewardess'' eyes toward Shui Xian. Of course, Raelle did not like it. She could bear it someone just appreciated her husband but with that coveting gaze, how could she let it go?

    "You can leave!" she said straightforwardly to the flight attendant. "Send someone else to serve."

    The stewardess was taken aback but didn''t move. Her aggrieved eyes looked towards Shui Xian as if waiting for him to make a decision. She truly looked like Raelle just bullied her for no reason when Raelle was being very nice. And it wasn''t like Raelle to be nice to employees when they were in the wrong. If it was her own employee, she''d have let her see the power of her poisonous words but this employee belonged to Shui Xian and she didn''t want to go far.

    Shui Xian didn''t know what happened when he noticed that the flight attendant didn''t move even after Raelle told her to leave, he became dissatisfied and looked up at her asking, "Why are you still standing here? My wife told you to call someone else to serve her. You can leave now."

    The stewardess did not expect him to react like this and was unable to react for a while in shock. She wasn''t flying on the private jet for the first time with Shui Xian. In fact, she could be considered an old employee of Shui Xian and thetter had even praised her for her service ability. She was often proud of it because she was praised by the boss. But now, she wasn''t even given a single nce by the boss whom she admired for so long, she didn''t know how to feel about it.

    She wanted to fight for herself as she had always put on airs in front of other staff just because she was once praised by the boss. And if she was sent back from here today, she could imagine what would happen to her because of all the dissatisfaction others had toward her. "Sir, is there something that I did wrong? You can let me know so I can change it."

    Shui Xian''s brows furrowed and his eyes turned cold when he looked at her, "What''s the point of quibbling here? Didn''t you hear me say that you can leave? Do I or my wife need a reason to send you away? When we ask you to leave, you should leave!"

    The stewardess bit her lips and sent a resentful nce towards Raelle before leaving.

    "Have I been too nice to these people?" questioned Shui Xian to himself. "What did she do to make you upset?"

    "She desired what belongs to me."

    Shui Xian chuckled and nodded his head, "And my wife''s paranoia and possessiveness kicked in instantly. I can understand. Next time, don''t hold back. If they work for me, they should listen to theirdy boss too. Show your image and style of President Raelle. Don''t be too nice when it''s not needed."

    "As President Raelle, I don''t give a damn about what people have to say about me. But as the wife of Master Xian, I should still think before doing anything. I don''t want people to point fingers at my husband."

    Shui Xian felt distressed when he heard that from her, "You don''t have to be so thoughtful of me. I don''t care what they say. You can still stay as you are. No need to concern yourself with anything else. My wife needs to be as unrestrained as she always has been. After all, what I love the most about my wife are her stingingments and unabashed portrayal of her heartfelt feelings."

 Chapter 1390 We Compete

    1390 We Compete

    "I just remembered someone saying that I was one lucky girl," said Raelle with a thoughtful look on her face. "I havee to understand that I am indeed too lucky in life. Whoeveres into my life likes to spoil me. No one tried to restrain or temper my personality. You all seem to have way too much confidence in me to let me run wild like this. What if I walked the wrong path?"

    "Everything about you is too straight!" was Shui Xian''s answer as he smiled teasingly at her. "Just like your sexuality."

    "Who said I''m straight?" asked Raelle making Shui Xian choke. Raelle smiled at him and patted his back soothingly as she added, "I think my sexual orientation is Xian! I seemed to have been a very principled person before you entered my life. Sometimes I wonder what kind of magic it was that the moment we first met at that banquet, I was willing to not only get close to you but also wanted to take a bite of those lips."

    Shui Xian took a sip of the water to calm himself down before giving her a helpless look, "Wifey, you really need to give me a warning before speaking something like this. Don''t catch me off guard everywhere."

    "Okay, I''ll try," she replied to him.

    "That was so perfunctory. Where did you learn that?"

    "I''m picking up bad things."

    "Then don''t."

    "But you don''t me to experience everything. So, I''m absorbing every experience like a sponge."

    "You better squeeze out the bad habits from your learning experiences."

    "Hey, that''s not fair!"

    "It is," he argued.

    In this lively manner of going back and forth, they finished their dinner. Seeing that there was nothing else to do in this long flight, Raelle continued to y with Shui Xian''s slender and bony fingers as she loved to do it. She threaded her fingers through his, put their hands together to check the size difference, and rubbed every inch of his hand making Shui Xian feel itchy to do something.

    Shui Xian took his tablet from the side and said, "Let''s y some games."

    "What game?" she asked as she put her chin on his shoulder. Shui Xian looked through the games he had and asked for her opinion, "How about sudoko?"

    "Really? You wanna y a number game with your wife who was born highly sensitive to numbers? Are you sure you are not asking for a beating?"

    Shui Xian hummed in realization. Indeed, why would he look for a beating? He couldn''t possibly win in such a mind game when the other person was Raelle who just loved numbers from a young age and understood numbers better than anything else in the world.

    "Then... Candy crush?"

    "What is that?" asked Raelle.

    "Baby, you really need to learn about the world around you."

    "Aren''t I learning everything from you?"

    Shui Xian rubbed her head as he agreed, "Yes, you are. And I''m proud of you for that."

    "Do you want me to make you more proud?" asked Raelle seriously.

    "I''m already very proud of you."

    "But I can do better."

    "I don''t think that''s needed. Don''t tire yourself. Just do what you can do easily."

    "Oh..."

    After looking through all the games on his tablet, Shui Xian put it away and suggested, "Let''s do something you have never done before."

    "What is that?" she asked curiously because Raelle was certain she had plenty of things that she had never done before. She didn''t know which one he wanted her to try now.

    Shui Xian opened his bag and took out a green craft paper which made Raelle frown in confusion as she couldn''t understand what was the purpose of this craft paper but she didn''t ask either as she knew that she''d understand it if she waited patiently. Then she watched as that craft paper slowly but neatly folded and turned into a jumping frog. Shui Xian put the frog in her hand and said, "This is for you."

    Raelle scrunched up her nose at him in confusion, "Really? A frog?"

    "It''s a jumping frog, not a simple frog!"

    "There is a difference?" she asked.

    "There is," he retorted. "Give me a minute." Then he took another craft paper in a light green color and folded another jumping frog. "This one is for me."

    "Okay, we both have a jumping frog. Now what?" she asked.

    "Now, wepete!"

    "Huh?"

    Shui Xianughed at her reaction and put the frog on the table in front of them and poked the butt of the frog making it jump to a farther ce. He looked at her and said, "Now, it''s your turn. Let''s see whose frog jumps the farthest!"

    Raelle gave him a veryplicated look, "Hubby, I love you but what the hell is this? Are we kids?" N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Have you ever done this before?" he questioned her seriously.

    "No," she replied.

    "Then that''s all. Who cares if it''s childish or not? It''s fun!"

    "What''s fun in it?" asked Raelle. But seeing him insisting, she still tried to make the frog jump like him. It was her first time doing this though so she didn''t control the strength very well and her frog wasn''t able to jump as far as Shui Xian''s.

    "You lost," he said excitedly. "Okay? So what about..."

    Her words died down as he captured her lips in an intense kiss. His lips rubbed against her soft petals and he bit them lightly before plundering into her mouth taking her breath away crazily. His tongue wreaked havoc inside her mouth, not giving her a chance to even react or catch her breath.

    But after all this time, Raelle had also learned her lesson. She quickly adjusted her state and started responding to his wild kiss. He sucked on her tongue, licked every inch of her mouth, and tasted herpletely. When Raelle wanted to hug his neck, he held her wrists and held them above her head in a domineering manner.

    He seemed to want to take everything from her, from her taste to her breath. Everything about her was something he wanted to possess. He touched her forehead with his own and panted heavily as he looked at her misted eyes. She looked at her with her moist gaze and asked, "Are you sure I lost? I think I won."

    Shui Xian chuckled and his shoulders shook with his movement as his hot breath brushed against her face making her want to capture that breath once again and melt into it.

    "It''s rare for you to behave like this,"mented Raelle as he wiped her wet lips that had turned red from their kiss and looked even more appealing. "Just because I hide this side of mine doesn''t mean that I don''t have it in me."

    Raelle nodded her head in understanding. She bit his chin and said, "I like it. No, I quite like it. I didn''t think being led by someone would feel so good for once."

    Shui Xian kissed the corner of her eye and got back into his seat saying, "I have been meaning to kiss you since the moment I saw you at the airport. But I wanted to hold it in. However, my patience just ran out sooner than I expected."

    "So, you yed this childish game? Do you even need a reason for kissing?"

    "No reason needed. But what''s wrong with adding some fun into it?"

    Raelle shook her head at him, "As long as you are happy." She put her head on his shoulder and hugged his armzily. "I think love is very magical. It can make you enjoy the things you once found disturbing."

    Shui Xian understood why she said this and didn''t say anything else but leaned his head against hers. "Did you click any photos today? How about showing me some?"

    "I didn''t click many but I think others did," answered Raelle and took out her phone to check. She did receive pictures on her WeChat and scrolled through them while telling Shui Xian about the stories behind each photo.

    Theyughed together and slept together, not realizing when the long flight got to its destination. It was early morning when theynded at the private airport in the capital of Country G. Shui Xian took it upon himself to collect their personal things as their luggage was not their business, someone would take care of it.

    As they exited the private jet, Shui Xian looked at the evergreen environment around them making him feel like he was in paradise right now. This city always felt like it was in spring with beautiful weather and scenery. And it also nourished the most beautiful woman of his life.

    He held Raelle''s hand and descended the stairs with her. "What now?" she questioned as she looked at the familiar environment and felt the familiar air.

    "You should know better about what''s next," replied Shui Xian. "This... This is your territory, wifey! I''m considered a guest of this city now!"

    "No, you are considered the son-inw!" answered Raelle as she pointed with her chin towards the chopper that was waiting for them.

 Chapter 1391 A Diary

    Chapter 1391 A Diary

    Raelle ran towards the chopper with Shui Xian and got in with ease. The pilot greeted her enthusiastically and she responded calmly while not forgetting to introduce Shui Xian to the pilot too. "It''ll be faster to take the chopper to the estate or it''ll take hours on the road from the airport," told Raelle to Shui Xian as she helped him with the seatbelt. As they flew in the air, Shui Xian looked at the city, which seemed to be in a different world. After all, he left behind a hot summer but here, it felt like they were in spring. Everything was so beautiful and green that it instantly put him in a good mood.

    They flew for over half an hour before Raelle pointed towards the ce where she grew up which she called an estate but once Shui Xian noticed the architecture and area of this estate, he had to say that it was more like a castle. As the choppernded on the helipad, they alighted from it and Shui Xian was able to see rows of servants in their crisp uniforms standing at attention.

    The leading butler took the lead in greeting them with everyone else following. The butler had a kind and gentle smile when he looked at Raelle. "Missy is finally back home. We missed you."

    "Uncle Eric, how are you doing?" inquired Raelle.

    The butler seemed a little surprised and unused to Raelle''s initiative to ask such trivial questions but he was old and had been through a lot in life. So, heposed himself calmly and answered all her questions patiently as he led her towards the main residence.

    Shui Xian looked at the well-trimmed greenwn, flower fields, and tall trees that enhanced the natural beauty of this ce. He always knew that his wife was a princess but only now did this fact really sink in because this princess truly grew up in a castle too. It was a genuine castle with a long history and enviable architecture.

    Despite seeing the grand scene, Shui Xian epted everything calmly as he felt that his wife deserved this treatment. He got another perspective of how Mu Chenyan spoiled Raelle. The only reason Raelle didn''t turn into a brat must be herck of desire. Otherwise, he believed that she might have turned into the most unreasonable princess around.

    "I have cleaned up your room, would you like to freshen up and rest first or should I ask someone to set the table for breakfast?"

    Raelle looked towards Shui Xian who shrugged, "You can choose, sweetheart. I don''t mind."

    Raelle then said, "Then let me take a shower first. Then we''ll eat something before resting for a while."

    "Alright."

    Raelle took the lead to direct Shui Xian toward her room. Seeing how none of the servants dared to follow her but even kept a distance from her, Shui Xian raised his brows. Hmm... It seems it wasn''t just the help at his house but Raelle really didn''t like getting too close to the house help. Even if she was kind to them and didn''t throw her weight around, she still preferred to keep her distance.

    Raelle opened the tall doors of the room and invited Shui Xian in. "Come inside. This is my bedroom. I lived here growing up."

    Shui Xian was very curious about this ce for a long time, especially in Raelle''s childhood bedroom. But looking at it now, he didn''t know if he should say that he was disappointed or say that he had expected it. It was difficult to see a trace of a little girl or even a teenage girl living in this room.

    It was just a normal bedroom like Raelle''s or any other personal space. It was filled with books with tall bookshelves lining one entire wall. There was a huge bed in the middle of the room with a sheer canopy with butterflies embroidered on the corners. Raelle walked into the cloakroom and nodded in satisfaction. "I knew someone would add new clothes for you here too. Come and see what you want to change into. Our luggage will take some time to arrive."

    "Wife, did you have a habit of writing a diary when you were younger? Like, I know you like to someone make notes of your thoughts on yourptop. What about when you were younger? Did you write it in a diary by hand or on theputer?"

    Raelle raised her brows at him, "Why are you suddenly asking this question?"

    "I can''t learn anything about the young Raelle from this bedroom," he replied helplessly. "So, I just thought maybe if you have a diary then I can read the young Raelle''s thoughts to understand her."

    Raelle didn''t reply as she went to take out her clothes and said, "I''m going to take a shower."

    Shui Xian narrowed his eyes at her receding back as it told him that she just avoided answering his question. What did it mean? It meant she did have a diary of a sort but did not want him to read it. Why? What could be hidden in that diary? N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Baby, are you embarrassed to let me see your diary?" he called out from behind.

    "You''re thinking too much," was Raelle''s response as she closed the door of the bathroom leaving Shui Xian smiling by himself in this huge bedroom.

    Shui Xian walked towards the bed as he noticed a photo frame on the bedside table. He stepped close to look at it. The picture in the photo frame had a young girl in a high ponytail standing beside Mu Chenyan as they stood behind Grandfather Xiang. He was actually a little surprised that someone like Raelle would keep a family photo like this on her bedside table. He smiled softly as he rubbed his hand on Raelle''s face who was clearly unwilling to take this photo but was forced to do so. Of course, the one who forced her must be Mu Chenyan.

 Chapter 1392 Be Content

    Chapter 1392 Be Content

    When he had just met Raelle, he really didn''t think she was a family person. Even if she seemed indifferent to most people, she was never like that when it involved family. The people shebeled as family really meant a lot to Raelle. After seeing this family photo, he again started looking around the room to find even small clues that could tell him something about Raelle''s childhood but it was really difficult to find anything as everything was so neat and clean in this bedroom. Even his childhood room had plenty of tidbits like his favorite basketball, his favorite figures, his favorite toys, and even his high school notes were ced in his childhood room, showing his growth over the years. But Raelle seemed to have had no childhood. She was really a little adult even when she was younger as there was nothing extra in her life.

    After Raelle took a shower, Shui Xian also took his clothes and went to take a shower. He was also quite tired from the journey. He wanted to sleep too but since he was hungry, he had to first fill his stomach. While Shui Xian was taking a shower, Raelle opened the box that was ced on her desk and took out a photo frame with a picture of her with Shui Xian in it. It was actually a photo from their honeymoon when they weren''t even in love with each other. This was a photo of both of them sitting in front of the ss window, enjoying the snowfall with steaming cups of hot chocte in their hands.

    Actually, Raelle didn''t know who clicked this photo but she did receive it just recently from Shui Koshing. And she liked it very much. She took a copy from B¨¤ and sent it to Uncle Eric to get it developed. She asked him to put it in her bedroom here. Now that she was here, she found it in the box and ced it right next to the family photo. When Shui Xian came out, he walked to her side and looked at this photo that wasn''t there before. He hugged Raelle from behind, "Where did thise from?"

    "Why should I tell you?" retorted Raelle. "It''s a secret."

    Shui Xian rubbed his nose against the side of her neck making Raelle feel itchy. "Baby, even if you don''t tell me, I know. It must be B¨¤. This wooden cabin belonged to B¨¤, it was his idea that we go there for our short honeymoon as well. So, he must have asked the maids to keep an eye on us to see how we are developing our rtionship."

    "If you know, why ask?" "Okay, okay. I won''t ask anymore," he rubbed her head lovingly. "But I am confused."

    "About what now?"

    "We have so many pictures together. Even our wedding photoshoot is particrly beautiful. Then why did you choose this one? And considering that you ced it right next to your family photo, it adds a special meaning to it too. I wonder why pick this particr photo. We had no love between us at that time."

    Raelle leaned back into his armsfortably putting all her weight on him without any burden. "Because at that time, I really didn''t think there woulde a time when I''d say that I can''t seem to live without this person. It''s not that I can''t, it''s more like I don''t want to live without this man." She took a pause and added, "At the time when this photo was clicked, it was our first time together. At this moment, my body belonged to you even if my heart didn''t. This is considered a memorable moment to me."

    Shui Xian pursed his lips and added, "You know I would have loved it more if you said that you chose this picture because you started to have feelings for me without realizing it."

    "Maybe I did."

    "Huh?"

    Raelle pointed at the first photo frame saying, "This is a family photo." Then she turned to the new one she added to the side table and went on, "And this is also a family photo. I don''t know about other feelings but at this point, I considered you my family. And you are supposed to care about your family unconditionally. At least, that''s what I believe. I grew up with the idea of doing everything I could for my family. So, you became my family at this point. Does that make it more memorable now?"

    Shui Xian kissed the top of her head and said, "Actually, it doesn''t even matter why you chose this photo. I quite like it. Theposition and angle are good with good lighting, giving us a dreamy halo and it even seemed to show the warmth of this scene. This alone is enough."

    Raelle turned around and pped his chest, "If it was enough, why ask me so many questions?"

    Shui Xian gave her a wronged look, "Isn''t it because I just wanted to make you talk more? I love listening to you." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "I already talk more than ever," argued Raelle.

    "But why do I think it''s still not enough?"

    "Be content in your lot. Don''t be greedy!"

    "My only greed in life is named Raelle Xiang. What should I do about it?"

    "Greed is a curse. Are you calling me a curse?"

    "No way! You are the blessing of my life," said Shui Xian trying to defend himself as he did not expect Raelle to give the conversation a different and dangerous turn. "I''m hungry. Let''s go and eat something, okay?"

    He tried to change the topic so abruptly just to save his life as he knew if he continued this argument, he''d be the one losing. Battle of words should be avoided with Raelle and he had learned this lesson.

    Raelle could obviously see his desire to live as he changed the topic of conversation. She found it rather funny how he seemed too scared to even continue. She pursed her lips to suppress the corners of her lips that threatened to curl up. She was getting too natural and smiling now and didn''t even have to make a conscious effort to do so.

 Chapter 1393 Marks Of Your Childhood

    1393 Marks Of Your Childhood

    Raelle and Shui Xian went down to eat. Shui Xian was actually expecting a dazzling array of food in this huge dining room but to his surprise, there were only three dishes and one soup prepared for them. As the house help left after serving the meal, only Raelle and Shui Xian were left in the dining room. Seeing the surprise on Shui Xian''s face, Raelle asked him, "What''s wrong? Do you not like the taste? Uncle Eric specially asked the chef to make Chinese cuisine because he thought you wouldn''t like to eat Western food. If you want, I can ask him to make something else."

    "There is no need for that," replied Shui Xian hurriedly stopping her from ringing the bell to call someone. "I am actually surprised that the meal is so simple and gives the feeling of homecooked meal,fortable and warm. Whenever we went to the Shui family''s ancestral home, there was always a sumptuous feast organized even if there were only one or two people eating. I thought..."

    "You are overthinking," said Raelle. "Even if this is a castle, we aren''t really royalty. You know Opa and his principles. He would never allow anyone to waste food resources. He dislikes wasting food the most. So, we always follow the frugal ways. Besides, we took a long flight, even if we are hungry, how much do you think we both can consume? Why bother then?"

    "True," agreed Shui Xian who also thought that his n had quite a lot ofvish and wasteful habits. Good thing his father broke away from that group of people. He ate the simple stir-fry veggies but they were so delicious that it surprised Shui Xian.

    "Eat more if you like it. The chef here has been picked up from hundreds."

    "Oh?"

    "I had a small appetite and Yanyan thought that I didn''t like the food cooked by those chefs. Since she couldn''t always cook for me, she held a grandpetition to look for a personal chef for me. After rounds of tough battles, the current chef was chosen only because I ate an extra bowl of rice when he made the dishes. He can make even the simplest of dishes seem luxurious and full of vor. I quite like the taste."

    "Why not bring him with you when you moved?"

    "His family is here," said Raelle. "Why would I separate his family? And their roots are here, they didn''t want to leave this ce, and I didn''t insist either. Why would I insist on something like this?"

    Shui Xian nodded in understand as Raelle would really not insist on something like this as she was truly not particr about food. She truly had a small appetite, there was a huge possibility that Raelle ended up eating that extra bowl of rice back then because she was that hungry. It was highly likely that it had little to do with the chef''s skills which by the way needed no affirmation.

    Shui Xian ate the meal and as Raelle said, despite being hungry, he really couldn''t eat much. In the end, the portion was just enough for the two of them. He was looking at the garden outside through the huge windows that allowed natural light to pour into the dining hall and light it up. "I''ll take you horse riding after we wake up," suggested Raelle. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Shui Xian nced at her.

    "What are you looking at? Don''t you remember? Last time, I promised you that I''d let you meet my horse. Now is the time to keep my promise." She pointed in a certain direction saying, "The stables are over there. We can also take the horses to ride through those woods. The maple forest is the best ce to wander around on a horse."

    "It''s surprising."

    "What is?"

    "That a homebody like you knows which is the best ce to ride a horse."

    Raelle shrugged, "I grew up here. I''d be a real failure if I didn''t even know this much about this ce."

    "True," agreed Shui Xian as he went back to the bedroom with Raelle. "When are you giving me a tour of the whole ce?"

    "Then don''t you know that you should not touch a man''s waist? It''s like provoking the man since their waist is a sensitive ce."

    17:31

    "You really want to see the whole estate?" questioned Raelle as she changed into the nightwear andid down with Shui Xian on the familiar bed which she had slept on for years. "Why not?"

    "It''s too big," was her answer. "It''ll take so much time to see everything."

    Shui Xian wasn''t deterred by her words at all. "I still want to explore all the ces that you have a mark of your childhood."

    "Even I haven''t made such a demand, why are you so demanding?" "What do you mean?"

    "Have I ever asked you to take me to see your childhood house? I didn''t!"

    "It means you have not as much interest in me as I do in you."

    Raelle pinched his waist making him hold her wrist with a dangerous look in his eyes, "Baby, aren''t you tired?"

    "Why?"

    "Because I can tire you out if you have so much energy."

    Raelle understood the underlying meaning of his words. She tried to push him away, "When did I say that?"

    "Then don''t you know that you should not touch a man''s waist? It''s like provoking the man since their waist is a sensitive ce."

    "I don''t think I heard this before."

    "You lived in a cave, how would you know?" he retorted. Raelle bit his chin, leaving obvious teeth marks, and was satisfied seeing that too. "I didn''t live in a cave. I lived in a castle. Can''t you tell? Also, it''s not that I''m not interested in you as much as you are in me. It''s that I have no interest in your past where I don''t exist. I prefer knowing your present which belongs to both of us."

    Shui Xian hugged her close saying, "But I have interest in all of you. Whether I was there or not, I still want to understand everything about you. It is meaningful to me even if it seems pointless to you. So, stop questioning my interests."

    "Okay, I''ll give you a tour. But if you want to know the marks of my childhood, it''ll be difficult to do so."

 Chapter 1394 We Can Go

    1394 We Can Go

    In the end, Raelle and Shui Xian slept throughout the whole day and only woke upte at night when they felt a little hungry. Raelle felt groggy when she opened her heavy eyes and looked at the dark room. "What time is it?" she asked in a hoarse voice and coughed to clear her throat. Her lips were so dry right now as if she had been thirsty for a long time. Shui Xian was also stirred awake and stretched out his hand to find his phone. He squinted his eyes as the bright light of the phone made his eyes ufortable. When he looked at the time, he was silent for a while.

    "What happened? What is the time?" rushed Raelle when she saw that he was just looking at the phone screen without responding.

    "It seems to be 11 o''clock," answered Shui Xian as Raelle hummed, he added, "It''s 11 o''clock at night. We seem to have slept for over 10 hours."

    "What?" Raelle was also surprised as she did not think that she''d be able to sleep for so long. She had never been hit by a jeg like this before. She had even slept in the flight but she was still able to sleep for so long. What happened to her? "Is is that I missed my bed too much?"

    Shui Xian chuckled at her words and sat up to turn on themp. He took off the nket and went to pour a ss of hot water for Raelle from the kettle before bringing it to her. He blew on it to make the temperature right for drinking before bringing it to Raelle''s lips, "Have a sip. Your throat seems ufortable."

    Raelle didn''t refuse as her throat was indeed very ufortable right now. She took a sip but then coughed again a couple of times making Shui Xian worried. He put his hand on her forehead to feel her temperature. "You don''t seem to have a fever. Why are you coughing? Are you limated?"

    "How is that possible?" denied Raelle without even thinking. How could she not be used to the weather of the ce she grew up in? Did that even make sense? "I just slept for too long and my throat is dry. There is no other reason for the cough. Don''t start overthinking as always. You will get wrinkles if you keep worrying about me like this. I''m reminding you, that I love this face of yours. You better take of it for me!"

    Shui Xian soothed her with a few words and coaxed her to drink some more hot water to make her throat feel better. Only after drinking the whole ss of water did Raelle feel like she was alive again.

    "Do you want some more?" asked Shui Xian.

    Raelle pursed her lips and nodded her head.

    Shui Xian went to pour another ss of water for her and just like earlier, her fed her water with his own hands. She just had to obediently drink it while he''d take care of everything else.

    Raelle touched her t stomach which seemed to have sunk in even more and said, "I think so."

    "I''ll find you something to eat," said Shui Xian as he rushed to wash his face and brush his teeth to freshen up. Finally, he felt more awake and turned to leave the room but once he did, he looked at the long and winding corridors lit with dimmps. He slowly entered the room again and looked at Raelle in embarrassment.

    Raelle''s lips curled up looking at him like this. How could she not understand what just happened? Wasn''t it already obvious why he came back? But she still waited for him to speak.

    Shui Xian thought about it for a while before saying, "Um... Wife!"

    "Hm?" Raelle was leisurely tying up her hair in a messy bun and putting on her slippers. "What is it?" N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "I can''t seem to remember where the kitchen is." Seeing the smile ying on Raelle''s lips, he added, "I haven''t even looked around the whole ce yet. How will I remember the way? You can''tugh at me about this."

    "I am notughing at you," replied Raelle as she walked to him and tip-toed to kiss his cheek saying, "I just think you are cute."

    As she wanted to pull away, Shui Xian hugged her waist and pressed his body against hers. His face leaned closer to hers but Raelle put her hand on his lips.

    "No!"

    Shui Xian pulled her hand down, "Why?"

    "I didn''t brush yet," reminded Raelle.

    "I don''t mind."

    "I do!" she said. "Why do you forget that I do mind? Just wait here patiently for me to freshen up. I''ll lead the way for you." Raelle took five minutes to get done with her business and came to his side saying, "Okay, I''m done! Let''s go!" She naturally held his hand and tried to pull him out but with a tug, he managed to pull her back into his arms and urately dropped a devout kiss on her beautiful and juicy lips.

    He looked so satisfied after aplishing his mission and said, "Okay, now we can go."

    Raelle thought of something and said, "Forget it. All the staff must have gone to bed. It''s sote. Let me use thendline to connect to Uncle Eric. He''ll find the chef to make something for us."

    Shui Xian stopped her saying, "Why disturb their rest? Just lead me to the kitchen and I''ll make something for you. Okay?"

    Raelle didn''t even think before agreeing, "Sounds good to me." It had been a while since she had eaten the food made by Shui Xian so she didn''t mind troubling him. Besides, he always says that her demands were not a trouble to him.

    Both of them went outside and Raelle led the way through the winding corridors.

 Chapter 1395 A Rat?

    1395 A Rat?

    The castle at night seemed too quiet and it even gave a very eerie feeling. Maybe it was only Shui Xian who felt this way because Raelle seemed oblivious to the eerie feeling. But then again, she must be used to this atmosphere, right?

    There were dim wallmps lighting up the whole castle at night. It really made one feel like they had gone back into the medieval era. With Raelle holding his hand, Shui Xian stopped paying attention to anything else. As long as she was around, he was willing to travel to any era.

    They were passing through the darkest corner of the castle and Shui Xian inadvertently nced at the huge oil painting on the wall. He felt like the man in the painting seemed to be looking at him right now, this gave him a creepy feeling so his hold on Raelle''s hand tightened.

    Raelle noticed it and gave him a confused look. But when she followed his line of gaze, she understood it, "You also think the painting is looking at you?"

    "You think so too?" asked Shui Xian in surprise.

    "I don''t," replied Raelle. "It''s Hyson who always thought that the painting was looking at him. He always avoided this corner if possible. Especially at night."

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "I can understand why he''d do that. Where did this paintinge from?"

    "It had always been here," replied Raelle as she noticed his interest in this topic and stopped to chat with him.

    "Always?" repeated Shui Xian.

    "Yeah. Hyson asked this question to Opa who replied that this painting had always been here. No matter how many owners changed, this painting stayed here. So, every new owner just let it stay here for some reason."

    "What''s the reason? There could be a mystery behind it."

    "There is a mystery," Raelle lowered her voice to tell him.

    "What is it?"

    "Watch!" said Raelle as she held the edge of the painting and her fingers went behind the painting, with a click, the painting moved to reveal a huge iron door behind it. "Secret passage?" "No. This leads to the secret dungeon!" Raelle dropped a bucket of cold water on his adventurous heart and his eyes widened.

    "Dungeon?" Shui Xian swallowed. "What kind of dungeon? The kind where prisoners were kept?"

    "No." Shui Xian rxed but tensed up when she continued, "They were tortured there."

    Shui Xian pinched her cheek saying, "You are doing it on purpose, right? Do you want to scare me?"

    "Oh,e on! You can''t be so easily scared like Hyson who always shivers at the idea that this ce must hold the resentful souls of those tortured prisoners. One time, I took him inside to see the dungeon. It''s still filled with iron chains and nails and whatnot, Hyson got a fever the next day and refused toe near this ce."

    "With Hyson, it''s believable and expected," replied Shui Xian as he smiled to himself thinking about the time when Hyson must have been tortured by his own imagination. Poor guy was really something else! He was only scared of one thing in life and that was ghosts. And he found a best friend who loved to scare him using this one weakness of his. "You did it on purpose, right?"

    Raelle didn''t deny his words as she had indeed done it on purpose back then but she really didn''t think that Hyson would end up with a high fever, vomiting, and bing delirious. How would she know how deep-rooted his fear of ghosts was? Besides, there were no ghosts here, he was just scaring himself with his own ideas. The only thing Hyson should be scared of was his own brain which was filled with such bizarre ideas. Only he could carry the weight of his own overthinking.

    "Do you wanna go inside for a visit?" Shui Xian shook his head, "No thanks. Aren''t you hungry? Let''s go now. We''ll explore some other time." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Raelle didn''t tease him and agreed. They soon arrived at the kitchen but heard a loud noise from inside.

    "Are there rats inside?"

    "Is the rat supposed to look that big?" questioned Raelle as she pointed at the dark figure.

    "True," agreed Shui Xian and stepped over to hold that dark figure and twisted his arm behind him. "Ouch! Let go! It hurts! It hurts!" That familiar voice made both Shui Xian and Raelle freeze. "Hyson?" asked Raelle as she walked to the side and turned on the lights. Once the lights turned on, she really saw a sleepy Hyson holding a half-bitten apple in his hands. "What are you doing here? No, when did youe here?"

    "Xian Ge, you should let go first. It really hurts," reminded Hyson, and Shui Xian finally loosened his grip. Getting his freedom, Hyson looked at his wrist which turned red. It showed just how much force Shui Xian used on him just now. "Why abuse me like this?"

    "I thought there was a thief," said Shui Xian as he defended himself. "Who told you to sneak around with the lights off? Is it my fault that I was mistaken?"

    "Xian Ge, can a thief get inside this fortress? You underestimate the security of this ce," retorted Hyson while rubbing his wrist. He felt like his wrist was rather weak right now. He couldn''t even hold the apple properly as his hand trembled. "Can''t you be nicer? Even if you thought it was a thief, use less force. You almost broke my hand."

    "I''m sorry!" Shui Xian knew that he was wrong so he apologized readily. "I asked you a question," Raelle spoke at this time to get their attention back to her. "What are you doing here at this time? When did youe? Did youe alone? What is going on here? Also, why should my husband be nicer to a thief? That doesn''t even make sense."

    Hyson sighed, "Can you stop defending your husband? I am also your best friend. Don''t forget the old and love the new! It''s not a nice thing to do."

 Chapter 1396 Free Labor

    1396 Free Labor

    "Forget about all that and answer my questions," Raelle was still insisting on having him answer her questions as she did not want to discuss whether she loved the new and forgot the old or not. "I came here in the evening," answered Hyson as he yawned. "I was really tired as I rushed to finish my scenes, caught thest flight, and couldn''t even rest on the flight because of a crying kid. So, I just went to sleep right aftering. Just a while ago, I woke up and realized that I hadn''t eaten anything for over 16 hours now. I was hungry so I came to find something to eat. But there is nothing here. I could only make do with the apple."

    Shui Xian had already figured out the reason why Hyson was here. He was looking at the ingredients avable in the kitchen and his brows twitched when he heard Hyson saying that there was nothing in the kitchen. "There is so much here though," Shui Xian pointed at the refrigerator filled with fresh vegetables and meats of all kinds. Hyson gave him a look, "Xian Ge, this needs to be processed. Do I look capable of that?"

    "This is why one should at least have the ability to feed themselves or they''d go hungry like you,"mented Shui Xian as he looked at the ingredients thoughtfully wondering what to make. A lot of dishes could be made with such high-quality ingredients but he needed to make something easier right now as Raelle was hungry and he didn''t want his wife to wait for long.

    "So, should I have this ability?" asked Raelle.

    Shui Xian''s train of thought was broken when he heard Raelle''s voice. He turned to look at her, finding her waiting for his answer. Shui Xian recalled what he just said and bit his tongue. Wasn''t his wife in the same situation as Hyson? Why didn''t he think of this before speaking? His mind turned at the speed of light as he cleared his throat and said, "No, darling, you don''t have to know all this. How can your beautiful hands do such a thing?"

    "Then why do I have to learn it?" questioned Hyson hatefully. "My hands are beautiful too." He even showed his hands which were indeed beautiful. There was no doubt that Hyson had beautiful hands with long fingers, perfect for ying piano. No wonder, he was known for his piano skills when he was younger. "You have to learn," insisted Shui Xian. "My wife doesn''t need to learn it because she has me to feed her. What about you? Either find someone who knows how to cook or learn to do it yourself."

    Hyson scratched his head, "I''d rather learn to do it myself. Where am I gonna find someone else to do it for me? I have also realized that even my Mum and my Yanyan have no time to feed me anymore. I gotta take this heavy responsibility on myself."

    Shui Xian patted his head and said, "That''s a good idea. How about starting right now? Go over there and dice the tomatoes for me."

    Hyson''s face fell instantly as he didn''t expect that he''d be used as abor almost instantly. He just made the decision to learn some life skills. When did he say that''d do it right now?

    As if reading his mind, Shui Xian added, "When you have already decided to do it, why wait for tomorrow? Just start from now!"

    "Why now?" grumbled Hyson unhappily. He only came out to eat, why did he have to work now? He was so tired already and he was sleepy too. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "If you wanna eat, you gotta work," said Raelle as she pulled out a high-stool to sit down, leisurely waiting for the food.

    "But isn''t Xian Ge already making something for you?" Hyson already understood why they came here. No one woulde to the kitchen for no reason. They must also be hungry like him. He did hear from Uncle Eric that they slept through the whole day and didn''te down for dinner either. It was only right that they''d be feeling hungry now. "Since he is already making it for you, why can''t he add a portion for me too? If he''s making rice, he''ll have to add another bowl of rice. If he''s making noodles, then a handful of more noodles would do."

    "You gotta work for it," said Raelle. "You aren''t working either."

    "My husband isn''t willing to let me work," Raelle smiled at him making Hyson want to smack on her head but he didn''t dare to do so. For a moment, he actually felt envious of her. "Stop looking at me and get to work."

    Hyson grumbled something under his breath and went to find tomatoes. He put the tomatoes on the cutting board.

    "Did you wash them first?" reminded Shui Xian and Hyson paused before he hurriedly rushed to wash the tomatoes. He felt so dumb all of a sudden and didn''t dare look back at Shui Xian. Then he chose a knife and heard Shui Xian''s voice again, "That''s for meat." Shui Xian went to take out another knife and put it in front of him, "Use this to dice the tomatoes."

    Hyson pursed his lips and nodded his head.

    "Be careful and in anger, don''t cut your own finger."

    Hyson shook his head to get rid of all distractions before he focused on the tomatoes and held the kitchen knife carefully. He was so attentive in his work but he was so slow that it felt like he wasn''t dicing tomatoes but was growing them.

    Raelle smiled at the scene in front of her as she shared a look with Shui Xian who looked rather pleased to find a freebor. Even if thisbor was too slow, he didn''t mind. He managed to knead the floor and cut the noodles and got everything else prepared too. He was originally nning on making spaghetti but then he decided to make a bowl of tomato noodles instead.

 Chapter 1397 Queen Is Watching

    Chapter 1397 Queen Is Watching

    Only after Hyson was done did he rx and feel like he lost all his strength as he slumped down on the chair and didn''t want to move at all. He rubbed his wrist and noticed that the redness was turning into a purple bruise. Hyson tried to move his wrist and felt a slight pain in it.

    "Is it really hurting that badly?" questioned Raelle.

    "You really don''t know how strong your husband is, eh?"

    Raelle didn''tment on that. Whether she knew about her husband''s strength or not was her own matter why would she tell him about it? Anyway, no matter how much strength Shui Xian had, he didn''t have the heart to treat her harshly. He was always gentle with her and did not dare to use even slight force on her.

    Even when he left some strawberries on her body, he''d feel bad about itter as he didn''t seem to like seeing any bruises on her body. "It''s not broken so don''t be so dramatic now," retorted Raelle. "Just rub some medicated oil and it''ll get better in no time." Raelle looked back at Shui Xian and found it more interesting to watch her husband working so attentively in the kitchen. When she looked at the tomatoes that Hyson diced, she frowned, "You don''t know what a diced tomato looks like?"

    Hyson rubbed his nose as he also knew that he did a very bad job but it was his first time so he should be given some leeway, right? But he refused to ept criticism from someone who did nothing.

    "At least, I tried! I am not like you who is just enjoying the scene with ease." "I am giving emotional support by being here. Just me being here is enough for Xian. Isn''t that right, husband?"

    Shui Xian looked up at the two bickering kids and nodded, "Yes, you being here is very much enough."

    "Tsk. Queen Raelle is here watching her consort make a meal for her. When the Queen is pleased by the consort''s delicious food, she''ll reward the consort with treasures and whatnot."

    Raelle pinched Hyson''s arm making his yelp and he almost fell from the chair. "Stop talking. You aren''t helpful already."

    Hyson stuck out his tongue and made a face at her.

    Shui Xian soon served the steaming bowl of tomato noodles for the three of them and sat down to eat with them. "I didn''t expect that it''d be so easy to find all the ingredients for the Chinese cuisine here."

    "You think Opa is someone who can get used to Western food?" questioned Hyson. He picked up the chopsticks and said, "Thank you for the meal, Ge!"

    "Just eat. Can''t the food shut you up?"

    "I wasn''t talking to you, Ellie. Don''t be like a firecracker. When or how did I piss you off?" n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Your face is enough to piss me off!"

    Hyson gaped at her in disbelief and refused to talk to her. He did not wish to even speak to her right now as she was really like a firecrackertely. But only with him. What did he do? During the whole meal, he kept thinking about how managed to piss off Raelle? He was still the same as always then how could she be pissed off when he wasn''t able to piss her off in all these years?

    After they were done eating, Raelle held back Shui Xian and turned to Hyson, "Wash the dishes."

    Hyson pointed at himself, "Me?"

    "Who else is here?"

    "This friendship is over!" said Hyson as he collected the bowls and went to wash them hatefully. "I''m serious, by the way!"

    Raelle didn''t respond to his angry words as she felt there was no need to do so. If this friendship was over by just a couple of words, then they wouldn''t have reached so far in their life together.

    "You don''t even take me seriously," Hyson almost yelled and with a crack, the ceramic bowl broke down. He bit his tongue when he realized what he did.

    "This is why I didn''t respond. You get so easily distracted. Can you pay attention?"

    "Oh..."

    Hyson focused on washing the dishes and didn''t notice the pleased expression on Raelle''s face. Shui Xian shook his head seeing this and patted her head, "Stop bullying him so much."

    "When did I?" retorted Raelle. "I''m just teasing him a little."

    "He might start crying if you continued. Don''t forget that he has sensitive tear ducts."

    "He won''t cry. If he did, I''m gonna beat him up."

    Shui Xian felt some sympathy for Hyson right now seeing how his wife was hell-bent on messing with Hyson right now.

    Only after Hyson was done washing the dishes, did they get together to walk back to their rooms. "Did youe alone or others are here too?" asked Shui Xian to Hyson.

    "Only I''m here for now," replied Hyson. "Others areing tomorrow."

    "Why did youe first?" asked Raelle.

    Hyson red at her, "I came because I wanted to do so. What is wrong with you? Are you so unhappy to see me here?"

    "I''m unhappy to see those heavy dark circles under your eyes," said Raelle. "You didn''t even rest. Why did you hurry over here? You could have waited for a day or two beforeing."

    "I wanted toe as soon as possible before I didn''t want to miss anything. It''s my best friend''s wedding. How can I bete? Won''t you eat me alive if I camete? Why aren''t you happy even when I came early? Why are there so many issues?"

    Raelle held Shui Xian''s hand and pulled him with her, "Let''s go. He has lost his mind."

    "My mind wasn''t good to begin with!"

    "Exactly!" agreed Raelle. "Then you should go and get some sleep to get your mind back to the barely eptable state."

    Shui Xian put his hand on Raelle''s mouth and turned back to look at Hyson giving him a look that told him to shut up. One was sleepy and one was in the mood for trouble. Both weren''t doing any better than the other. He didn''t know why he was always stuck between the two. It was really difficult for him.

 Chapter 1398 Still Unsatisfied?

    Chapter 1398 Still Unsatisfied?

    Early in the morning, when Raelle got up for her morning run, she found that the whole ce was quite lively. Mu Chenyan was sitting in the hall listening to work progress from all the people in the castle and was busy assigning tasks.

    "Don''t you wanna rest before ordering people around?"

    Mu Chenyan held up her hand to stop the person who was speaking. She turned to Raelle and smiled at her, "There is no need to rest. I need to rush things. There isn''t much time before the wedding ceremony."

    "Then do you need help?" offered Raelle which surprised Mu Chenyan who raised her brows at her. Raelle cleared her throat, "I just feel like I should do something. It''s my wedding and I didn''t do anything. I left all the burden on you which is not fair. After all, you are considered a newlywed too. Uncle Zhao might get mad at me for making his newly wedded wife work so much."

    "He doesn''t get mad at me," was Mu Chenyan''s response. "Although I am d to know that my Elle now knows to be considerate of me, I still don''t need you to do anything. Go for your morning run."

    Raelle thought about it before suggesting, "Then how about you also hold a wedding ceremony? I''ll help you organize it."

    Mu Chenyan chuckled, "I don''t want a wedding ceremony at this age."

    "But I want it."

    "So?"

    "So if I can hold a wedding ceremony to make you happy, you can do it too. I really wanna see you in a wedding dress."

    "So do I."

    Both Raelle and Mu Chenyan looked over at Xia Zhao who came to sit with Mu Chenyan naturally. "I love the idea of Raelle. She is as smart as ever. I agree with her. I also want to see you in a wedding dress."

    "Aren''t you afraid that your mother wille to ruin the wedding?" asked Mu Chenyan. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "If she isn''t afraid ofing, I''m not afraid of facing her either. Besides, when have I ever been an obedient son? If she wants to embarrass me or you, then she has to first see if she is capable of doing so."

    "Domineering! I approve!"

    Mu Chenyan chuckled at Raelle giving Xia Zhao a thumbs up, making thetter pleased as a peach. "Go already!" Mu Chenyan waved her away and Raelle left them alone. "Don''t you look at your age?"

    "There is nothing wrong with my age. Do you have to dislike my age now?" retorted Xia Zhao.

    Mu Chenyan shrugged, "Aren''t you old though? You should be d that you have this good face to please me. But I''m still at a loss. If I hadn''t fallen into your trap, I could have raised so many handsome wolfdogs."

    Xia Zhao gave her a resentful gaze, "You try raising the wolfdogs and see how I deal with you."

    "What are you gonna do?" challenged Mu Chenyan. "What can you even do to me?" Xia Zhao whispered something in her ear and then the servants of the estate managed to see their Mistress Yan blushing like a tomato for the first time ever. They all gave an admiring look to Xia Zhao but lowered their head immediately so, as to not be found out by Mistress Yan and silenced for seeing or hearing all this. Mu Chenyan pushed him away saying, "Behave yourself. Old gangster! Go away and let me work."

    Xia Zhao chuckled and decided not to disturb her any longer. He went to find Grandfather Xiang to keep himpany. The old man wouldn''t be able to sleep for so long like the young people. But strangely enough, it seemed Grandfather Xiang was sleeping peacefully while all the young people were awake and had started with their own activities.

    Raelle also ran into her brother and sister while running as they two were slowly jogging together right now and seemed to be discussing something. Raelle didn''t eavesdrop on their conversation and ran past them but heard them calling from behind.

    "Little sister, can''t you be a little polite? How can you ignore such big human beings?"

    Raelle stopped to look at them and asked, "How should I be polite now?"

    "Say, good morning!"

    "Good morning!" said Raelle and startled Xiang Wai who didn''t expect that Raelle would so easily ept it. What happened? Was she dreaming? Did she not wake up yet? Xiang Wai''s thoughts were confusing but all those thoughts were practically written on her face right now making Raelle feel a little amused by the sight.

    Xiang Weimin wasn''t like Xiang Wai as he smiled at Raelle and asked, "I heard you only slept since you came here. What happened?"

    Raelle felt a little inexplicable about this as she had no way to exin it either so she generously shrugged, "I have no idea. Maybe I missed my bed so much that I couldn''t get up from it. I don''t think I''ve ever slept for this long before. It''s quite surprising to me too."

    "Are you feeling alright? There isn''t a headache or something from sleeping so much?" Xiang Weimin showed his concern.

    "I feel fine," replied Raelle.

    Xiang Weimin breathed a sigh of relief, "That''s good. Then continue. We''ll join you for breakfast in a while."

    Raelle nodded and turned back to continue running.

    Xiang Wai looked at her brother, "Why does she feel a little different?"

    "She is willing to ept you as a sister, what are you still unsatisfied with?"

    "She did?" gaped Xiang Wai in disbelief. "When did that happen? Why don''t I feel it?"

    "Silly!" Xiang Weimin tapped her forehead. "If she didn''t ept you, she''d have been polite enough to greet you just now but she didn''t bother as it''s not necessary to be polite with family. Don''t find faults with her all the time. Follow her pace."

    "What if I can''t keep up with her pace? She is difficult toprehend especially when she just speak out her thoughts."

    "If you ask, she''ll speak her thoughts too. Just don''t annoy her all the time."

 Chapter 1399 Exclusive Chef

    Chapter 1399 Exclusive Chef

    Raelle didn''t have as many thoughts as her siblings. She had clearly epted them a long time ago. She was willing to listen to them and get along with them. It was just those two who hadn''t found the rhythm of getting along with her yet. But they couldn''t be med for that either as they hadn''t known her for even a year yet.

    Shui Xian was able to figure her out soon after their marriage because Raelle didn''t intend to keep anything from him. She wanted a transparent rtionship and that''s why they didn''t have to stumble along to understand each other. Besides, Shui Xian was her husband and with her sense of responsibility being so strong, Raelle would try her best to share everything with him.

    But it was different with Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai. Raelle had no idea how to get close to these two and those two were cautious around her too as if she was fragile and would run away if they startled her. It often baffled her how Xiang Weimin and Xiang Wai always tried to slowly probe around to test her bottom line.

    It was kind of funny and cute too.

    Later, they really met at the breakfast table. Everyone was here and it made the ce seem lively. The huge dining table that was used to having only three to maximum four people sitting on it, today had a dozen people gathered together to have breakfast. Uncle Eric smiled kindly seeing this scene and even said to Grandfather Xiang, "Sir, this ce finally doesn''t seem as empty and silent as before."

    Grandfather Xiang also smiled and nodded, "Indeed. With all of them around, this lifeless castle seemed to havee to life again. I didn''t even realize before how empty this ce was." Perhaps it was because that he got used to the liveliness during these months that he was more energetic and smiled a lot more often. He seemed to be in good health too. "Sir, I''m d to see you doing well. Your health seems so much better now," said Uncle Eric with a bit of emotion. He knew the reason why Grandfather Xiang insisted on moving back to Country C with the idea of going back to his roots. He believed he won''t live long and he really didn''t want to die in this foreignnd. Who knew that he''d appear so much better after moving to his familiarnd. It was surprising but it made the old butler very happy too. "My health is indeed better now," replied Grandfather Xiang. "The only problem is that it seems I''ll have to make my wife wait for me again."

    Uncle Ericforted him, "I''m sure Madam won''t mind waiting longer for you in the underworld. If anything, she''d be happy to see you doing well with the blessing of grandchildren around you."

    "I''m indeed quite blessed," muttered Grandfather Xiang as he looked everyone at the table.

    Uncle Eric looked at Raelle and thought of something, "Missy, did you wake upst night because of hunger?" N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Raelle looked up at him and gave him a nod.

    "Then why didn''t you call me? I asked the chefs to be on standby since you didn''t eat dinner and neither did Hyson. How did you guys manage?"

    "Uncle Eric," started Hyson. "You are worrying too much. We didn''t feel like disturbing the chefs thatte at night. They''d have to be busy these days. Besides,st night, we had the exclusive chef with us."

    "It''s not your exclusive chef," reminded Raelle.

    "Yours and mine have no difference, Ellie!" Hyson seemed exasperated and helpless as he spoke. "Why haven''t youe to this realization yet?"

    Raelle almost threw the fork at him but held back. She looked at Uncle Eric and told him, "My husband made us a bowl of noodles. You don''t have to worry. I won''t be hungry with him around."

    Uncle Eric gave Shui Xian an appreciative look and nodded in approvement. It was good as long as someone could take care of Raelle. He had watched Raelle growing up and had deep feelings for this Missy too. Despite her cold exterior, he was well aware of her true nature. He had personally experienced her kindness too.

    He always hoped for the best for her.

    He was quite worried when Grandfather Xiang was looking for guys everywhere for Raelle as if she needed anyone''s approval. He was very dissatisfied with this approach of an arranged marriage too. But it seemed that he had been too narrow-minded. Grandfather Xiang was old but not senile, his vision was still good.

    Besides, how could he doubt Grandfather Xiang''s love for Raelle? That was the old man''s darling granddaughter. He''d never make a wrong decision for her. He always got the best for her in everything. So, how could he pick a man for Raelle so randomly? It seemed that he sent Raelle on so many blind dates only to let her see the world so that even she finally met his real target, Shui Xian, she''d be better able to find his good points.

    The old butlerpletely forgot that he was very dissatisfied with Shui Xian being a second-married man back then and had even called Grandfather Xiang toin about it for a long time trying to convince him to change his mind. Who cared if Shui Xian was married for the second time? As long as this man new to care and love their Raelle, it was enough.

    Nobody is perfect. Such a w can be overlooked.

    "This son-inw is capable,"plimented Uncle Eric. "It''s good that he can take care of Missy. Now, we don''t have to worry so much about Missy."

    "Yes, yes. You should stop worrying. Your hair is all silver now. I''ll feel guilty if you started shedding hair too from worrying about me so much."

    Uncle Ericughed heartily as he listened to Raelle, "It''s great that our Missy has even learned to joke now."

 Chapter 1400 Not A Good Son

    Chapter 1400 Not A Good Son

    "Your Uncle Eric finally seems a little satisfied with me," Shui Xian had already noticed Uncle Eric''s attitude toward him. Although he was respectful to him yesterday, he didn''t seem to really like him.

    Shui Xian believed that most people in this estate did not think that he was worthy of their princess whom they watched growing up. By now, from the attitude of the servants in this ce, he understood what kind of a status Raelle really had in their hearts. Despite the fact that she didn''t talk to them much or didn''t like their disturbances, they all had great respect for her in their hearts.

    And from this, one could understand that Raelle''s reputation of being cold-hearted was not trustworthy. If she was so cold-hearted, how would she be liked by everyone here? He had felt plenty of scrutinizing gazes falling on his since yesterday as if everyone was evaluating him.

    But once these people saw Raelle''s closeness with him, they would smile kindly and stop paying attention. It was actually a surprising situation even for Shui Xian who did not expect his wife to have so many protectors in the form of house help too.

    He really wanted to find the person who always said that Raelle wasn''t a good person.

    "Don''t worry, Uncle Eric is a reasonable person," replied Raelle. Even if she wasn''t as keen about others'' emotions before, her understanding of some emotions was quite good now. Just like she could see Uncle Eric''s concern for her clearly now and even didn''t dislike it at all.

    "I also think he is a reasonable person," If he wasn''t, he wouldn''t have been so kind to him since they met despite not really finding him pleasing to his eyes.

    "Yue, eat some more," said Mu Chenyan when she noticed how her best friend wasn''t eating much. "Are you feeling sick again? Or is the food not to your taste?"

    Yue Yue weakly lifted her head and shook her at Mu Chenyan but paused when she felt dizzier with this action. "If I remember correctly," started Hyson. "Mum used to say that seeing my face always makes her want to eat an extra bowl. Now, she is barely lifting her chopsticks even when her son is sitting right in front of her. What happened? Don''t worry about your Mr. Zhai, he''lle with Uncle Xiang a day before the wedding."

    Yue Yue red at her son who shrugged. Who asked his mother to ignore him? Couldn''t he even say anything? She used to send him so many caring messages but since she got together with that big idiot Zhai Kuijun, she had forgotten all about her son. Hyson felt like she might even care more about little idiot Zhai Yanjun even more than him these days.

    He was a poor little cabbage abandoned by everyone.

    He took a bit of egg pancake with force.

    Even his best friend didn''t care about him. He took another forceful bite.

    "Hyson, hurry up!"

    Hyson looked at Raelle and asked, "What now? I can''t even eat in peace anymore?"

    "Don''t you want to go for a horse ride? Don''t wanna see your princess?"

    Hyson perked up instantly and started eating hurriedly but paused. "Mum, are you really okay?" He wasn''t really an unfilial son who didn''t care about his mother at all. He went to her side to check her temperature and frowned, "Your temperature seems normal. What exactly is wrong with you? Did you get air sick again? But how is that possible? It has been such a long time since you got air sick."

    Yue Yue waved her hand at him weakly and leaned her body against him. Hyson naturally supported her body but then bent down to pick her up, "Let''s take you back to rest first. Uncle Eric, call a doctor."

    "There is no need for that," said Mu Chenyan. "Let Zhao see what is wrong with her. He also helped her recover when she was sick beforeing here. So, he is familiar with her condition." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Xia Zhao didn''t even take the pulse before saying, "Yue Yue is experiencing limatization. Her previous illness isn''t acting up now. You take her to the room. I''ll find something for her to take which will make her feel better."

    "Uncle, my mom is fine, right?" Hyson didn''t even know that his mother was sick in the past few days. This gave rise to a nameless anger in his heart but he had to suppress it in front of everyone for now.

    "Weren''t you very dissatisfied with your mother just now," joked Xia Zhao with him as he found it quite amusing to see the worry etched between Hyson''s brows. This careless guy always found reasons to throw a jab of words at his own mother but he still loved her the most too. "What can I do? I only have such a precious mother. I can onlyin asionally but can''t really abandone her, right? She can forget her son but the son can''t forget her."

    Yue Yue hit his head but she was feeling too ufortable to have any energy. It felt more like a pat on the head to Hyson and it made him frown again. He''d rather she start jumping and calling him annoying than being so weak in his arms.

    He took her back to the bedroom and helped her lie down. He pulled the nket for her and looked seriously at her face which was turning pale at a fast pace. He squatted down beside her bed and held her hand, "Why do you feel so light? Haven''t you been eating well these days?"

    Yue Yue couldn''t lift her hands to make any hand signs so she mouthed at him, ''I am eating well. Don''t worry about me.''

    "If you don''t want me to worry then don''t look like this. How am I supposed to not worry about you when you are sick? And why do you still keep it to yourself? You have been sick but I knew nothing. Now, you must have started feeling ufortable the moment younded here but you continued to endure until now. If Yanyan hadn''t noticed would you even tell anyone? What do you even think of me? Am I such an irresponsible son in your eyes that you can''t even depend on me?"

    Yue Yue was startled when she noticed the seriousness in his eyes. She also realized that he was mad about her hiding her illness from him. But it was just a minor fever what was there to tell him when he was rushing to finish his work? The corners of her eyes reddened as she felt like crying whether it was because of the ufortable feeling or because of seeing her son like this, maybe even she didn''t know for now. ''It''s not like that,'' she tried to touch his face but Hyson turned his head away, avoiding her hand.

    "Mom, I might be careless and look really unreliable but you can''t be so distrustful of my character. If you are in pain, tell me about it. What am I to do if you don''t say anything? Just because you couldn''t speak, I learned signnguage. Thinking that your hands might get tired, I learned lip reading too. When all failed, I even learned to read your eyes. And yet, you still have a way to hide things from me."

    Yue Yue sighed and tried to sit up.

    "Just keep lying down. Don''t you dare get up."

    Yue Yue really didn''t move as she really couldn''t face her son like this. When this guy really got serious, she had to always bow her head in front of him. But it also proved that he grew up now. ''Silly, I know I have you. How do you think I got here?'' Hyson wanted to avoid looking at her so that he couldn''t understand what she was saying but she held his face and made him look at her. ''I know I can always depend on you. I have such a capable son. How can I not have any trust in you? I wasn''t feeling that ufortable when we came and I thought I''d just bear with it and it''ll pass. Why would I endure? Do I have a reason to do so?'' She pressed on the creases between his brows and went on, ''Don''t frown. It doesn''t suit you. I like to see my son smiling.''

    "Just because you like seeing me smile, I have been smiling like a fool all my life," he retorted.

    ''Are you tired?''

    Hyson shook his head, "No. But I really don''t like seeing you in pain. It makes me feel like I am not a good son."

    ''How is that possible? When did you be so unconfident in yourself? You are the best son in the world.''

    Hyson rubbed his face against her hand and said, "Then next time, don''t hide even the minor headache from me. If I learned it from others, I''m gonna be mad."

 Chapter 1401 Approval

    Chapter 1401 Approval

    "Hyson seems very serious,"mented Xiang Wai when she saw the way Hyson picked up Yue Yue and left. "He even left his breakfast."

    "Our little prince is a caring person," said Grandfather Xiang. "He might be careless at times but he is never careless with people he really cares about. And Yue Yue is his bottom line."

    "He must be mad," Mu Chenyan pursed her lips. "Yue told me not to tell him about her illness and I listened to her. He is mad at Yue now andter, I''ll also get a lecture."

    Xiang Wai chuckled, "Aunt, are you scared?"

    Mu Chenyan sighed sadly, "You don''t understand, my dear niece. Hyson is scary sometimes."

    "Even to you?" Xiang Wai was shocked. "I thought you weren''t scared of anything or anyone."

    "How is that possible? When you have feelings, you eventually have a weakness too. As a human, we are all vulnerable at one point in life and it can''t be changed. Since I love Hyson, I obviously care about his emotions and his anger too." Mu Chenyan put down the knife and fork in her hand. "I should go and check up on what''s going on. Even if I am gonna get an earful, I still can''t avoid this situation."

    Xia Zhao had already left the table to find some medicine for Yue Yue. On the other hand, Xiang Wai took a moment to think about it before sneakily going to Yue Yue''s room to eavesdrop. She didn''t believe that her mighty aunt would really be scared of Hyson.

    "What is Wai trying to do?" asked Grandfather Xiang.

    "She didn''t believe that Yanyan was actually scared of Hyson''s anger," answered Raelle. "But don''t worry. Seeing is believing. She''ll soon believe it all."

    Shui Xian also nodded in agreement as he thought his wife was right. Seeing is indeed believing. He also felt like following them but not to see Mu Chenyan''s joke. He didn''t dare have that intention. He just wanted to see how Mu Chenyan''s image in Xiang Wai''s head was about to subvert.

    Xiang Wai needed to change her perspective to understand some things. She''ll learn this lesson from this family as he did.

    When Xiang Wai reached the door of Yue Yue''s bedroom, she couldn''t hear anything. She showed a look of relief. She also thought she was thinking too much, how could her brave aunt be scared of a kid? That was impossible!

    She was about to leave but decided to check Yue Yue''s condition for a minute before leaving. She was already here and she had to show some concern to her second aunt. She opened the door slowly but paused when she saw the situation inside.

    Mu Chenyan stood aside with Hyson staring at her as if throwing daggers her way but Mu Chenyan did not resist or confront. She epted it all with a guilty look.

    Only after Xia Zhao was done helping Yue Yue with her condition did Hyson speak to Mu Chenyan.

    "You assured me that you will take care of her," started Hyson. "Okay, I understand that a person can fall ill anytime and we can''t really predict such a situation. I am also not saying that you didn''t take good care of her. But why not tell me about it?"

    Mu Chenyan pointed at Yue Yue and said in a low voice, "She told me to keep it a secret from you. Or else, would I do it? How can I hide anything from my little Fai? You have to believe me that it was not my own intention."

    Hyson believed what she saidpletely because he knew Mu Chenyan and he knew his own mother too. Between the two of them, only Yue Yue would ignore his words while Mu Chenyan would never do it. Yue Yue liked hiding things from him but Mu Chenyan would never do it intentionally. But Mu Chenyan''s biggest problem was that she listened to her best friend too much. She''ll always do what Yue Yue tells her even if it goes against her principles, she''ll do it just like she did this time.

    "She''ll tell you to jump from the cliff, will you do it?"

    Mu Chenyan looked toward Yue Yue who pretended to sleep now. She could not look into her best friend''s eyes. She was the one who asked her best friend to do bad things and didn''t think that it was wrong at that time. Who knew her son would be so tough about this?

    "I can do it," answered Mu Chenyan tentatively.

    But she instantly regretted it because she realized that once these words were uttered, she realized that she seemed to have made Hyson angrier. Mu Chenyan bit her tongue for speaking so hastily. She should have considered the situation before saying anything. "I mean to say that... if Yue asked me to jump then she must have had some reasons to do so or else why would she say that," Mu Chenyanughed awkwardly.

    Seeing Hyson''s lips twitching, she almost pped herself.

    What the hell was wrong with her here?

    She really couldn''t think straight with Hyson looking at her with such intense gaze. She was used to seeing his cute puppy eyes and the way he always clung to her. When he changed his face like this with her, she felt really ufortable. She felt like she hadmitted a sin or something.

    "I''m talking nonsense now."

    "No," said Hyson. "You''re speaking what you really think and I know that too. And that makes it worse. A clear-headed woman like you can also be so confused but not because of her love for a man but because of her love for her best friend. I have no words for you."

    "Love can fade, friendship is forever!"

    "Ahem!" Mu Chenyan pursed her lips and looked toward Xia Zhao who was giving her a strange smile now because of her words. What the hell! Why was she stuck here? She shouldn''t even be here! She should be looking for that cliff to really jump down right now.

    "Yanyan," called out Hyson. "I am so disappointed in you right now." After saying that, Hyson didn''t wait for her and left the room. "So am I," said Xia Zhao as he also left the room.

    Mu Chenyan was left scratching her head. She seemed to have made the matters worse for herself. She only had to deal with Hyson but she also made Xia Zhao upset. What was she thinking? Oh yes, she didn''t think before speaking at all.

    She looked toward Yue Yue who opened her eyes and gave her an apologetic smile before she mouthed, ''You are in big trouble.''

    "I can tell that I''m in big trouble!" Mu Chenyan felt like crying without any tears right now.

    Outside the room when Hyson walked out, he ran into Xiang Wai who was sneaking around but he didn''t stop. He didn''t even look at or find faults with her like he usually did. He just ignored her like she wasn''t even there.

    Behind him Xia Zhao only nodded at Xiang Wai and he also left leaving Xiang Wai to digest what just conspired. Her world view was shifting gears in her mind right now and it was a painful process. Her aunt seemed to be really scared of Hyson. It seems that emotions can really be your weakness at times.

    Raelle waited with Xiang Weimin and Shui Xian for Hyson toe back. She had calcted the time very well. Hyson came back right on the dot. Anyway, Yue Yue wasn''t sick, she was just feeling ufortable after the long journey. And no matter how worried Hyson was, he won''t sit beside Yue Yue''s bedside all the time as it would only make Yue Yue feel bad for him. "How is it?" inquired Raelle as soon as she saw Hysoning back.

    "She seems to be okay," answered Hyson. Then he narrowed his eyes at her suspiciously.

    Raelle understood the question he didn''t even ask with words and chose to answer, "I didn''t know about Yue Yue''s illness. If I did, do you think I''d keep it from you?"

    Hyson rxed when he heard that, he had this much trust in his best friend too. But he still wanted to strike as he said, "How would I know if you are still the same as before? You might also bend your principles like Yanyan." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "I might do something against my principles but that won''t involve you. I don''t have a habit of keeping things from you."

    Hyson nodded and took her exnation to heart. He looked at her sadly and said, "Ellie, am I really that unreliable?"

    "How is that possible?" retorted Raelle. She patted his head saying, "Now, don''t try to gain my sympathy by acting pitiful. I understand you very well. Come with me. Let''s go see your princess. It''s been a while, no?"

    Hyson was still feeling a little down but he still agreed with Raelle. It had really been too long since he came here. He should go to see his princess. He looked at the attitude of the servants around them and then said to Shui Xian, "It seems like Xian Ge, you got approval from the crowd."

    Shui Xian raised his brow at Hyson. "Why do you think so?"

    "What else? Everyone is respecting you genuinely. It seems unreal to me. You know it took me a while to gain the trust of the people in this castle who seemed to be engraved with the idea of loyalty and protection of Ellie. I have no idea how Yanyan did it but she did it. She managed to make everyone care about Raelle''s wellbeing." Hyson gave him a thumbs up, "You got their approval fast enough. I''m impressed."

 Chapter 1402 Knight

    Chapter 1402 Knight

    Raelle strode across the wide courtyard of her grand estate, the soft crunch of gravel beneath her boots the only sound breaking the stillness of the morning. The estate sprawled out in all directions, with meticulously manicured gardens framing the path that led to the stables. The air was crisp, filled with the faint scent ofvender and roses from the nearby flower beds, but Raelle''s mind was focused on whaty ahead.

    As she approached the stables, a proud smile inadvertently tugged at the corners of her lips. She was slightly eager to show off her horses today. The tall wooden structure loomed in the distance, polished to perfection, a testament to the wealth and care that defined the estate. Inside, the rhythmic clinking of harnesses and the gentle whinny of horses greeted her.

    She nced over her shoulder at the people following behind her. Xiang Wai''s excitement finally came out once she looked at the stables. She got out of her depressed state and observed her surroundings, breathing in the fresh air. She had to say that the weather here was too good and veryfortable as it even managed to rx her mood.

    First, Raelle took them all to change into the riding clothes. There was no one here who didn''t know how to ride a horse so no one was left behind too. Thankfully, Uncle Eric had already prepared the clothes for everyone before they even came. So, they all couldfortably change into form-fitting riding outfits, looking dashing, adding to their outstanding appearances and temperaments.

    After that, it was time to show off her horses.

    Raelle pushed open the wide stable doors, revealing the pristine interior. Sunlight streamed through the windows, casting warm rays on the gleaming coats of the horses inside. Each stall was spacious, lined with fresh hay, and as they entered, the horses shifted, their sleek heads turning to acknowledge their presence.

    "This one''s Knight," Raelle said, her voice softening as she approached a jet-ck mare, her coat shimmering in the light. "She''s one of my best. Fierce, but loyal." She stroked Amara''s neck, and the horse nickered softly in response. "She''s a little wild for first-timers, though." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    While Raelle introduced the horses and mares to the others, Hyson walked straight to his own princess and hugged his neck too. The majestic horse seemed to remember him very well as he also rubbed against Hyson as ifining that he came toote.

    He asked the staff to get his horse ready so he could go for a ride. He wanted to go for a ride to forget about what just happened. He knew he overreacted just now but he couldn''t help it either. His mother''s health was never a joke to him. He might love to joke with her but he''d never joke about her health. And although Yue Yue looked healthy now, he knew better. His mother had indeed suffered a lot when he was young, especially during the time she was pregnant with him which left roots of many diseases.

    He just wanted her to take better care of herself but it seemed like he was really asking for too much. Why did she insist on hiding things from him so much? He was really not trustworthy!

    "I have introduced all the horses to you," announced Raelle. "You both can pick one yourself. Whichever one you like, as long as you can tame it, it''s yours."

    Xiang Wai gave her a smug look, "What''s so difficult about that? I''ll show you what kind of an affinity I have with spiritual animals like horses."

    "I''m watching," replied Raelle not taking her words seriously at all. She moved down the row of stalls, introducing herst but prized horse with subtle affection. Her hand rested briefly on the stall of a grey stallion with a muscr frame and a strikingly white mane. "This is Orion," she said with a grin. "He''s the one you''re going to ride." She was looking at Shui Xian.

    "What about you?" asked Shui Xian.

    "I''ll obviously go with Knight," answered Raelle. "Hurry up. It''s time to fly!"

    Shui Xian chuckled as he followed her lead. Raelle nodded to the stable hands, who were already preparing the saddles and bridles. Within minutes, Orion and Knight were ready, their leather tack gleaming and their hooves tapping impatiently against the cobbled floor. Raelle mounted Knight with practiced ease, her movements fluid and confident. "Let''s go," she said, turning toward the open paddock.

    Raelle waited for Shui Xian to mount Orion, and once he settled in, Raelle urged Knight forward with a gentle nudge. The mare responded instantly, her powerful legs propelling them out of the stable and into the open fields.

    The estate stretched out before themˇŞrolling hills, endless greenery, and beyond, the forest that bordered hernds. The wind caught in her hair as they galloped across the estate, the thrill of the ride making her heart race. She nced over at him, watching as he grew morefortable with Orion, the tension leaving his body as Orion carried him gracefully across thend.

    She just knew that Orion was the best choice for Shui Xian. Even if she wasn''t the one who had the hobby of collecting the horses, she was one who was very familiar with the personalities of each horse here. Their names were given by Hyson while she only got herself familiar with each horse to better understand them. Her understanding of horses was almost like her understanding of humans but perhaps, she had bettermunication with horses over the years than humans.

    At least, the horses didn''tin about her entricity.

    After a while, they slowed, the horses easing into a steady trot. Raelle shed him a smile. "How is it? Didn''t I tell you it''s amazing to ride the horse around the estate?"

    Shui Xian wholeheartedly agreed with her words as he really liked this feeling. Especially since the scenary made it all better but with Raelle around, all scenery was the same to him as his eyes would just follow her around at any time and anywhere.

    "I believe all these horses are collected by Chenyan?" inquired Shui Xian but he was almost certain that only she''d do something like this. Even though he had never seen Mu Chenyan ride a horse before, he just had a feeling that she''d be the one to do something like this. Anyway, Raelle would never go out of her way to do something that didn''t bring her any profit. "Yeah, all the horses are collected by Mu Chenyan. She went to great lengths to find each and every horse. So, you can not look down on her vision."

    "I don''t dare," replied Shui Xian. Finding him looking at Knight, Raelle actually assumed that he wanted to ride Knight, so she offered generously, "Would you like to ride Knight? She is amazing." Raelle caressed the shiny mane of Knight as she spoke clearly showing how much she liked her mare. "Raelle Xiang doesn''t like sharing," reminded Shui Xian.

    Raelle chuckled softly, "That''s for others. I am sharing my life and future with you. What is it about my mare?"

    Shui Xian''s smile deepened, as he heroically jumped down from Orion and tied it against the tree near him. As Raelle was about to get down from Knight, Shui Xian held her hand to stop her and then got on Orion with ease, settling right behind Raelle.

    It happened within a minute and Raelle took a moment to respond. By the time, she realized what he did, his hands had already slipped from under her arms and held the lead with his hands covering hers naturally.

    Raelle smiled as she leaned her back against him and tilted her head to look at him, "So, your n was clear from the beginning, eh?"

    "When I said I''d love to go horse riding with you, this was my intention from the beginning. Why would I want to sit on a separate horse that separates me from you? That isn''t as fun as I thought." He patted Knight saying, "I hope Knight doesn''t mind the weight. Sorry, I just want to stick to my wife. So bear with me."

    Raelle kissed his Adam''s apple making Shui Xian''s eyes darken when he felt her soft lips touching that sensitive ce. She didn''t even know what she was doing or she did but intentionally did it as always. He was more inclined to believe that it was theter. After all, he understood his wife this much.

    "Do you want to go back?" questioned Shui Xian.

    Raelle found afortable position to settle in his arms and said, "No, let''s stroll around for a while longer. Anyway, we don''t need to help with anything."

    Shui Xian agreed with this and also didn''t want to go back. They had long ridden far away from the paddock and had entered the woods. They had separated from the others too who had chosen their own tracks to ride. So, Shui Xian was at ease in this space where only he and Raelle were together.

    So, the lovebirds didn''t care about anything else and were in their own world as always. Anyway, having someone around or not didn''t really change much the way they interacted with each other. If anything, they were a little more unrestrained when they were alone.

 Chapter 1403 Evil Plans

    Chapter 1403 Evil ns

    Hyson hade back from a long ride and he slowed down his horse once his eyes fell on Xia Zhao. Behind the wooden fence, he sat on the wooden chair with a wine ss in his hand, his eyes seemingly looking into the horizon but he was still alert enough to notice Hyson''s presence. Seeing Hyson looking at him, he smiled kindly at him in response.

    Hyson jumped down from the horse and tied his horse to the side. He put his hand on the wooden fence and with a push, he jumped over to the other side. He pulled a chair and sat down with Xia Zhao.

    "Uncle Zhao," he greeted.

    "Yue Fai," Xia Zhao acknowledged his presence. He was swirling the wine in the goblet and despite knowing the answer, he still offered, "Would you like to try some?"

    Hyson shook his head, "No, I am not a big fan of drinking."

    Xia Zhao nodded his head, "I know."

    "And yet you are offering me wine despite knowing that I don''t like drinking?" n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "I thought you''d like to have a sip after that unpleasantness from earlier."

    Hyson nced at his expressions but he seriously wasn''t able to read anything from his unfathomable expressions. He found it quite intriguing how good he seemed to be at hiding his thoughts. "Is that why you are drinking?" questioned Hyson. "To forget about the disappointment you just felt in Yanyan."

    "I''m not that disappointed," stated Xia Zhao calmly. "If anything, I''d say that I expected it. I know Yanzi better than you do. How can I not understand her views? She was always someone who believed that love wouldn''tst forever but friendship could. And hatred canst forever in her opinion."

    Hyson pulled the gloves off of his hands and put them on the small round table between them. "Is that why she insisted on not epting her feelings towards you?"

    "You can say that," he replied. "But it doesn''t matter. I can''t just ask her to believe in my love for her as I can''t guarantee it myself."

    "You can''t?" Hyson raised his brow at him in question as he found it quite unsettling.

    Xia Zhao looked into his eyes, "Yue Fai, life is unpredictable. ns often can keep up with the changes. Even if I have faith in my feelings, I can''t say the same about my life. Promises of forever are often without any substance. I''d rather spend the rest of my life with Yanzi and prove to her through actions that love might notst forever but it''llst till myst breath."

    Hyson epted those words very well and didn''t say anything. "Don''t worry about your mother, she isn''t that ill. She had a minor cold and because of exhaustion, she made it worse. But it wasn''t anything serious. She recovered well beforeing here. I don''t know if it''s the long air travel that made her ufortable now. However, she is still rtively fine. I just heard that she ate a small bowl of red dates and lotus seed porridge."

    Hyson nodded his head and smiled at him, "I understand. Thanks for exining it to me."

    "There is no need for thanks." Xia Zhao lifted the wine goblet with his bony hands and took a small sip of the red wine. "Uncle Zhao!"

    "Hm?"

    "Youe from a family of medical practitioners, right?"

    Xia Zhao understood why he brought this up. He actually felt a little pity for him right now. He was really a good son. "If you are gonna talk about your mother''s voice, then I''m sorry I can''t help with this. I have already discussed her situation with a senior in the n but..."

    "But?"

    "It''s been too long," answered Xia Zhao. "If she had gotten timely treatment back then, she''d have recovered her voice. But now it''s been more than two decades. It''s almost impossible to do anything about it now." After a brief pause, he added, "I''m sorry about that."

    Hyson shook his head at him, "You don''t need to apologize. It is indeed my extravagant hope. Besides, I am used to it now. I am past the age where people could use her disability to bully me too. Now, I''m more worried about her. She had locked herself up for years in a small world and rarely had to interact with outsiders somunication wasn''t a problem. It is different now. I don''t want anyone to really use this to hurt her."

    "You are indeed a good son,"mented Xia Zhao. "I really wish that I could do something about this."

    "What are you guys talking about?"

    Hyson looked up at Xiang Wai who came over to join them along with Xiang Weimin who followed behind her. Xiang Wai looked at the wine in front of Xia Zhao and picked up the bottle to read the name, she was surprised, "Uncle, where did you find this wine?"

    Xia Zhao pointed in a direction saying, "Right over there is the wine cer. You can find whatever wine you want there."

    Xiang Wai followed the direction of his finger and nodded before asking, "Can I go inside to see it?"

    Hyson gave her a strange look, "Why are you asking that question? Did anyone stop you from exploring?"

    "Fai is right," agreed Xia Zhao. "You are the Xiang family''s daughter, why would you need permission to go anywhere? I think you should look around more. This is no different than your Xiang family''s ancestral house."

    "It''s different," replied Xiang Wai. "This was Grandma''s own property and she clearly left it to Raelle. I was wondering if I should get her permission to go sightseeing. I really like this ce. The scenery, architecture, and weather, everything is to my liking."

    "Then why don''t you try asking Ellie for permission?" suggested Hyson with a bit of schadenfreude flickering in his eyes.

    Xiang Wai might have ignored it but Xiang Weimin noticed it clearly. So, before Xiang Wai could fall into his trap, he put his hand on his sister''s shoulder, "You should avoid asking that question or you might get kicked out instead."

    Hysonughed out loud when he heard that from Xiang Weimin, "Ge, why are you stopping her? Wouldn''t it be fun to see Wai running into the muzzle of the gun on her own initiative? Sometimes I really wonder what is in your head."

    "I also have the same question for you," shot back Xiang Wai. "It''s my first time here. So, wouldn''t I be a bit restrained in my actions? I should be careful not to offend the owner of this estate."

    "The owner of this estate wouldn''t allow you to live here if she didn''t wee you," answered Hyson. "You might have no noticed but not far from the estate, there are plenty of residential houses that are also owned by the Xiang family. Guests are usually not allowed to live in the castle as Raelle won''t like to share her personal territory with outsiders."

    Xiang Wai nodded her head as she felt like she learned something new now. She felt quite good knowing that the reason she was able to live here wasn''t because she came with the family but because it was Raelle who allowed them all to stay here.

    "When is your fathering?" asked Hyson. "And what about your mom?"

    "They both wille a day before the wedding," answered Xiang Weimin as Xiang Wai had no idea about this. "Yanjun and Uncle Kuijun wille with them. Why are you asking that?"

    "No reason," answered Hyson. Thinking of something, he looked at Xiang Wai and asked, "Wai!"

    "Hm?"

    "Want to do something fun?"

    "What?" inquired Xiang Wai.

    "It''s something called pissing off Raelle Xiang!" Hyson was grinning as he spoke.

    Xiang Wai squinted her eyes at him, "You aren''t trying to trick me into your evil n, right?"

    "No, I can assure you that even if Ellie is mad, she won''t be able to do anything to us."

    "Why not?" asked Xiang Wai curiously.

    "Because we''ll be standing on the right side," answered Hyson matter-of-factly. "Believe me for once! I never do something without a hundred percent guarantee of sess. And even if there is a slight chance of failure, I know how to change it into sess. You tell me if you want to join or not?"

    Xiang Wai contemted his words but didn''t answer hastily.

    "And what are you getting out of this?" asked Xia Zhao who had been listening in silence just now. "Fai, why are you insisting on making Raelle mad? What did she do to you?"

    "She had been pretty rude to metely," answered Hyson. "Who asked her to always take sides with Xian Ge? I have to get my ce back! She needs to remember that I, Yue Fai, always wins between the two of us. She can''t pick a side."

    None of them expected such an answer from Hyson but on second thought, it sounded quite reasonable too. This was exactly something Hyson would do. Xia Zhao only sighed and said, "Just don''t go too far. It''s her wedding soon. Give her a break." He didn''t stop them as he knew that they all had their own bottom line and none of them was an unreasonable person. Since it is considered a wedding home, there should be some fun here.

 Chapter 1404 Grand Scene

    Chapter 1404 Grand Scene

    Raelle had no idea what wasing her way as she was too busy having fun with Shui Xian. She took him around the whole estate and showed him each and every ce. Raelle didn''t think she had taken such a home tour herself ever before. But she was willing to do it for Shui Xian now.

    She even brought him to her favorite ce where she spent most of her time. And it wasn''t that difficult to guess what her favorite ce was. Yes, it was a library. Once she pushed open the tall and grand double doors, Shui Xian almost gasped at the sight before him. He felt like he was stepping into the scene of Beauty and the Beast. This huge library with rows and rows of bookshelf reminded him of that scene from his childhood when he watchcd Beauty and the Beast sitting with his sister.

    Who knew that he''d get to see the real-life scene here?"

    There were stairs going to the second floor which was also covered with books. Shui Xian felt his head spinning just looking at these books.

    "Have you read all the books here?" Although he felt like his question was redundant, he still wanted an answer right now. "Yeah," replied Raelle making Shui Xian ce a hand over his chest.

    "How?"

    Raelle looked confused by his question, "It wasn''t that difficult."

    "I should not ask such dumb questions. It shows the gap between our IQs."

    Raelle chuckled, "What are talking about? My IQ has nothing to do with this. While you were learning some extracurricr hobbies, making friends, or having fun, I was just sitting here reading books. That''s the only difference between the two of us. Since my only interest was in books, I could patiently sit here for days without feeling tired. But you had so many things going on in life, how can you spend that much time on books like these."

    Although he felt like she was trying tofort him, Shui Xian still agreed with her words because it was exactly as she said just now. He really had so many interests and hobbies in life. But Raelle''s genuine interest always lied in these books. So, he shouldn''t be so shocked that she managed to read them all.

    "Isn''t it beautiful?" asked Raelle. "I really loved it here."

    Shui Xian smelled the smell of books in the air and smiled at her, "It sure is beautiful. I have never seen anything like this before. At least, I haven''t seen a home library like this ever before." He was talking the truth. He only saw so many books in the public library or the university library. Even the people who wanted to build an image of intellectuals only had a couple of bookshelves in their studies. Who could really managed such a grand scene like this apart from Raelle?

    Or maybe he should give the credit to Mu Chenyan and Grandfather Xiang who managed to find so many books for Raelle. When he shared it with her, her answer actually surprised her.

    "Half of the books here are left by my Grandma," she told him. "The other half are gathered by Opa and Yanyan. But I heard that my Grandma was the one who liked collecting books. Some strange and obscure books that had been lost in history. She always wanted those even if she never read them."

    "She would have never thought that she''d be leaving all these to her own granddaughter who would know the value of these books and cherish them so much. She must be very happy to see this." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "I also think so," agreed Raelle. She pulled him towards the second floor and took out an old book carefully opening it in front of him. "Look here. They talk about the treasures in this one."

    "You believe it?"

    "I also think so," agreed Raelle. She pulled him towards the second floor and took out an old book carefully opening it in front of him. "Look here. They talk about the treasures in this one."

    "You believe it?"

    "I didn''t want to but..." "But?"

    "But I found a map."

    "What?" Shui Xian was shocked when he heard this. "Or should I say that my grandma found the map? Anyway, it was inside one of the books. It looked like an ordinary paper but once you put it in front of the me, it shows a secret map. I did not expect that at all."

    "Did you go treasure hunting?"

    "Who has time for that?"

    "Didn''t you tell others about it?"

    "Nope!" answered Raelle. She didn''t feel like sharing so she didn''t share. She didn''t lie but she chose not to share either. She wasn''t obsessed with adventure or treasures. She had everything avable so why would she go looking for an unknown treasure in this vast world? She was better off staying in her library and reading a few more books at that time.

    Shui Xianughed and he actually understood her thoughts too. Then Raelle took him around showing him interesting findings from different books. He had to marvel at his wife''s memory as she not only knew which book it was but also where it was ced. It was clear from this just how familiar she was with this ce and every single book ced inside here.

    ....

    "Are you mad?" asked Mu Chenyan to Xia Zhao whom she found outside drinking wine during the day. Xia Zhao nced at her and shook his head, "No, why would I be mad?"

    "Because of what I said earlier," mentioned Mu Chenyan. "I thought you''d be mad about that."

    "But I am not mad about it. It might have hurt a little but that''s okay. I got over it."

    "Then why are you drinking here?"

    "Why can''t I drink?" he questioned. "I asked you if I can help and you said there is nothing for me to worry about. Since I have nothing to do, I decided to just drink some wine."

    "Alone?"

    "I wasn''t alone. Fai, Wai, and Weimin were all here with me. They just left to make ns to trip Raelle. Since they didn''t want me to know the details of their ns, I was left here alone."

    Mu Chenyan frowned, "What are they up to now?"

    "Let them be. It''s a wedding home, so there should be some pranks. Why are you worrying about this so much? How can others know there is a wedding happening if there is no trouble?"

    Mu Chenyan narrowed her eyes at him, "You want trouble now?"

    "Trouble is not all bad," said Xia Zhao. "Are you free now? If you are, you can have a drink with me too."

    "It''s too early for this," said Mu Chenyan but she still snatched the ss from his hand to drink the wine. "You really know how to choose a good wine."

    "That''s true. I do know how to choose some good wine." He was smiling as he looked at her drinking the wine from his ss. "By the way, you didn''t answer me. Are you free now?"

    "I have seen all the arrangements for now and have given all the orders too. For now, I''m free. Why are you asking?"

    "Then let''s go. We should also pick a horse and have some fun. What do you say?"

    "Will my humble horses be able to satisfy your noble self?"

    Xia Zhao ignored her sarcasm and replied, "I don''t know about if I''d be satisfied with the horses but I sure am more than satisfied with thepany. If you areing along, why would I care about other things."

    Mu Chenyan put her lips on the rim of the goblet, hiding her upturned lips from him. He was getting better and better at talking while she kept losing this game. She tried to straighten her expression but it wasn''t working. With the way his dark eyes just looked at her, she already couldn''t stop smiling. It was such a strange experience for her. But she enjoyed every minute of it otherwise she wouldn''t have agreed to get a marriage certificate with him. "Let''s go. I''ll find you a good horse," said Mu Chenyan. "Later on, don''tin about it."

    "I don''tin," replied Xia Zhao. "When have I ever done that?"

    Mu Chenyan held his arm and took him towards the stables saying, "Come with me. I need to introduce you to others to let them know that you are my husband. No one should ignore my husband like this. How can they let my husband sit here to drink wine alone?"

    Xia Zhao smiled at her and held her back, "Okay, there is no need for that. Go and stay with Yue Yue. You don''t have toe tofort me. I am not mad at you."

    "What about horse riding?"

    "We can do it another time," he replied. "I was just teasing you. Don''t take it so seriously."

    Mu Chenyan pursed her lips and said, "Earlier, I didn''t mean that our love would fade away. I definitely didn''t mean that I don''t trust in your feelings for me."

    "I know. I know it all," said Xia Zhao and rubbed her head. "How could I not know what you really mean? I am just drinking wine because I have nothing to do right now. Go and get busy with your things."

 Chapter 1405 Thats Immoral

    1405 That''s Immoral

    It was only after dinner that everyone learned what Hyson had been nning the whole day. Once he wanted to get back at Raelle, he had a hundred ways to do so but he chose the most hurtful one to her. He knew exactly what would affect Raelle and he made use of that very well.

    "Xian Ge, I asked Uncle Eric to have your room cleaned up. Your luggage has also been sent to your room."

    Shui Xian frowned when he heard these inexplicable words of Hyson and looked at him in confusion. "My luggage was delivered to the room yesterday."

    "No, that was delivered to Ellie''s room. Today, it''s been sent to YOUR room!" Hyson smiled so much that he was practically asking for a beating at this point.

    Raelle looked at her best friend and asked, "What do you mean by this? Xian and I have the same room."

    "No," replied Hyson. "You are mistaken, Ellie. A couple before the marriage is not supposed to live together. In fact, they are not even supposed to see each other before the wedding or talk to each other."

    "Which era are you living in?" retorted Raelle as she understood what he really meant at this time.

    "Ellie, are you forgetting that you wanted a traditional wedding?" reminded Hyson in a good-natured manner like he was doing it for her. "You wanted to follow everything ording to tradition that your grandparents followed back in the day. Let''s ask Opa if he met his wife before the wedding."

    Grandfather Xiang who was prompted to answer felt like he was siting on pins and needles. He was just enjoying tea, why was he dragged into this trouble now? And whose side was he supposed to take here? One was his dearest granddaughter and the other was also his little prince. He could tell that Hyson was trying to purposely annoy Raelle right now but he couldn''t bring himself to me him either.

    "Opa, why are you hesitation?" questioned Hyson. "You don''t have to take sides. Just tell honestly if you were allowed to meet your wife a week before wedding day?"

    Grandfather Xiang sighed heavily and shook his head, "No, my mother said that groom and bride are not supposed to see each other before the wedding ceremony as it will bring bad fortune."

    Hyson was happy with this response, no it should be said that he was more than pleased because this was exactly what he wanted to hear. So, he looked at Raelle with an even wider smile on his face, "You see what Opa said. I''m not lying to you."

    Raelle wanted to throw a punch at his face but Shui Xian held her hand to stop her. He did not want things to escte to that point. "Why are you stopping me? I am gonna beat him up!"

    "This is why I told you not bother with him. If you find faults with him, he won''t stay silent. He knows how to retaliate since he knows you better than anyone in this room." Shui Xian''s voice was only audible to Raelle right now. "Don''t worry about it. It''s just a couple of days. Then we can live together again."

    "No!" refused Raelle. "Xian and I are already married," reminded Raelle to everyone. "So, following that tradition doesn''t make any sense!"

    "Ellie, traditions are traditions," said Hyson. "Also, it''s not like I am not letting you meet Xian Ge at all before the wedding ceremony. I''m just telling you to live in separate rooms. There should be a sense of ceremony in everything."

    "I announce in front of everyone! This friendship is over!"

    Hyson shrugged, "Who listens to you? I don''t ept it. What are you gonna do about it?"

    "Hyson!"

    "Ellie!" "Be careful at night or I''lle to haunt you in your sleep!"

    "Don''t worry, seeing your face for so many years, I am immune to nightmares now."

    "Oh?" Raelle raised her brow at him and it bothered Hyson. He had a bad premonition and it came true when Raelle said, "Since you are immune to nightmares, then you won''t mind waking up in the dungeon, right?"

    "You dare?"

    "Try me!"

    Mu Chenyan hurriedly stood up to stand between the two of them before they could really start fighting. She was having a headache too. She had never seen these two going tit-for-tat in such a manner before. They always had a weird harmony in their disharmonious temperaments but today, things didn''t look good at all.

    "Both of you need to back off!" Hyson and Raelle didn''t say anything and took a step back. N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Mu Chenyan was satisfied to see this and said, "Okay, I ept that what Fai said is too much but he isn''t wrong. It''s just a few days, you guys can stay in separate rooms during this time. And Fai, stop provoking Elle. What are you even up to? Do you want to start a war before the wedding ceremony?"

    Hyson shrugged his shoulders, "She is the one looking for a fight. I did nothing."

    "You are not that innocent either," was Mu Chenyan''s opinion on this matter. How could she not see things clearly? Especially when Xia Zhao already told her that Hyson was up to no good. Even though she would agree with his small troubles, she did not want things to get out of hands. "Let Xian stay in another room."

    "Come with me, Xian Ge," called out Hyson. "I chose the room farthest from Ellie for you."

    Thisment earned him a re from Raelle who wanted to bite his flesh right now. But Hyson was still the same brave soul who would never back off. Even if he was a little scared that Raelle might knock him out in sleep and throw him in the dungeon, he still held his ground with the courage that came from the fact that Grandfather Xiang and Mu Chenyan won''t let Raelle do something like that.

    After making so many ns, he only found this one feasible because technically, it wouldn''t bring any harm to Raelle. At least the harm was no visible. Wasn''t it just staying apart from Shui Xian for a few days? How could it be difficult for Raelle?

    But Hyson shared different views from these people. It might not be difficult for Raelle usually but it was different now. Not because Raelle was bing dependant on Shui Xian. No, not at all. How could someone like Raelle Xiang change to this point? If she had to go on a business trip for weeks, Raelle would not hesitate to leave Shui Xian behind. However, right now, she was practically forced to separate from Shui Xian. Taking the initiative and doing something forcefully always have different vors. How could Raelle not care about this forced separation? Hyson took advantage of the peculiarities of Raelle''s character to hurt her right now. Who asked her to keep hurting him these days? Was he so easy to bully? Shui Xian pulled Raelle aside and said to her in a low voice, "Don''t think about it. Living in a separate room before wedding is really tradition. And it also has its own charms."

    "I''d ept it if Hyson had no ulterior motives from bringing up this idea of living separating."

    "But we can''t me him too. He is only fighting back after your repeated attacks. I told you to control yourself. He will blow up and see, that''s exactly what''s happening now. He blew up and threw us far apart from each other," Shui Xian sighed bitterly. How could he not understand Hyson''s n? But he was also feeling helpless as he couldn''t really argue about such a small matter. And it was indeed Raelle''s idea to hold a traditional wedding. "What he said is right though, we should be d that at least we would be able to meet each other during the day. Sleeping in different rooms is nothing."

    "I''m still not reconciled."

    Shui Xian cupped her face and kissed her forehead, "Neither am I. I like holding you to sleep. I am really not used to sleeping without you around. So, I''m having it tough as well. What can we do though? Somethings can''t be changed."

    "I''m really gonna throw him in the dungeon. No, I''m gonna also tie him up with chains there to teach him a lesson!"

    Shui Xian hugged her to calm her down, "Don''t even think about it. It actually isn''t even that big of a deal either. Let''s not do anything harmful. His mental state is fragile. We should not use his weakness against him to hurt him. That''s immoral!"

    Of course, Raelle wouldn''t do something like that. Even if she felt like it, she really couldn''t bring herself to really do something like that with Hyson. At the end of the day, he was still her best friend. Even if they were going against each other these days, she couldn''t forget this friendship. And her earlier words were just nonsense. This friendship wasn''t so easy to break that she said it and it broke down.

 Chapter 1406 Pale Moonlight

    1406 Pale Moonlight

    Hyson felt so good after separating the pair of love birds that he felt like flying. He looked like he had achieved something remarkable in his life even though the only thing he did was to use a petty trick but people often underestimated these petty tricks. "I didn''t even get to do anything," sighed Xiang Wai as she really could not y any role in this situation. Hyson handled everything on his own without any trouble. Xiang Weimin patted her shoulder and said, "You should be d that you didn''t y any role just now. Do you think Raelle would have treated you the same way as Fai? Don''t be mistaken that we are still ayer away from her than Fai. Fai can do whatever he wants because he has confidence in the bond he shares with Raelle. Can you and Ipare with that? It''s better for us to stay on the sidelines when these two are arguing. Understand?"

    Xiang Wai also woke up instantly when she heard her brother say this. Yeah, why did she forget that Raelle could calmly face Hyson but if she added fuel to the fire, Raelle might smash her head against the wall without a care. And all the trouble she went through to ease their rtionship would have been in vain.

    She had been too indulgent since she heard Hyson talking about tripping Raelle. How did she forget all this? She should stay awake or she might get into trouble with Raelle.

    "Let''s go to sleep, don''t waste time here."

    "Oh," although Xiang Wai agreed, she didn''t make a move immediately. She slid close to Mu Chenyan and asked, "Aunt, do you think Raelle is okay?"

    Mu Chenyan was rubbing her forehead. "What do you think?"

    "I can''t tell."

    Mu Chenyan shrugged, "Raelle easily epted the arrangement which is weird to me too. I am unsure what her mood really is. If she was really mad, she wouldn''t have epted this situation easily. But if she isn''t mad then that''s weird too..." Mu Chenyan felt tired just thinking about it, "Forget it, forget it. I really can''t do this anymore. I am already tired. I won''t think anymore. Since Elle didn''t say anything then everything is fine."

    Xiang Wai pursed her lips and dejectedly walked back to her bedroom. Why was it so difficult to get some information? She set her eyes on Hyson and ran towards him.

    "Fai~"

    Hyson shuddered and made a run for his life.

    "Hey, stop! Where are you going?"

    Hyson did not dare to stop and ran ahead with Xiang Wai following behind him. "Leave me alone!"

    Hyson stopped but kept a certain distance from her. He was looking at her warily, "Talk normally with me. I will listen. If you used that strange greasy voice to say my name, I''m gonna run again."

    Xiang Wai rolled her eyes. He really couldn''t digest her being nice to her. Was it so strange that she called him sweetly? She didn''t think so at all.

    "Listen to me."

    "What is it?" snapped Hyson.

    "Why do you think Raelle didn''t react much to your unreasonable request?"

    "Because I didn''t make any unreasonable request," replied Hyson.

    "What? Really? Are you sure about that?"

    "If it was unreasonable why would Raelle ept it? Don''t you still understand your own sister? She would never ept anyone''s unreasonable requests. Even if that person is me."

    "So, you are saying that your request was reasonable that''s why you both didn''t sh?"

    "No. I just took advantage of my knowledge regarding her character."

    "Oh?"

    "You might not be paying attention earlier. I said clearly that it was Raelle who wanted a traditional wedding."

    "I heard that. So what?"

    "So that means if the traditional wedding ceremony has a tradition of bride and groom not seeing each other before the wedding, she''ll ept it. She might not know the troubles that''d be involved in a traditional wedding but she''d take them on bravely because she chose it herself!"

    Xiang Wai had a look of realization and shook her head at him, "You are so insidious."

    "This is why, you should not mess with me," winked Hyson as he went back to his room while humming a tune.

    "He is really happy. I hope you don''t get retaliated by Raelle soon,"mented Xiang Wai to herself. She also went back to her own room as she couldn''t understand the game between Raelle and Hyson. On the other hand, Raelle was sitting on her bed with an expressionless face. She really was mad at Hyson but if she hit him, she won''t be able to justify her beating. She''d have to take it slow. She''d wait patiently for the day to get back at Hyson for this. Anyway, thest thing shecked in life was patience!

    Revenge was best served cold and she knew this best too!

    "I won''t forget this, Hyson." Hyson sneezed his room and knew that he was being cursed but it did not affect his good mood at all. As long as he could make Raelle ufortable, why care about anything else?

    Raelle got ready to sleep and evenid down in bed but she couldn''t fall asleep. It was clearly her time to sleep but she wasn''t able to do so. She had never had any trouble with her sleep before this. She was always able to sleep once she closed her mind and emptied her mind of all the thoughts.

    But tonight, it was different, she was really unable to find sleep. She closed her eyes for over thirty minutes but was still awake. Her hand touched the empty space beside hers and clenched the sheets with her hand. Sitting up, she looked around the room.

    Before tonight, she had never thought that her bedroom was too big and too empty. In a sense, it was not empty. It had always been filled with books. However, tonight she had a problem with the size of this bedroom that seemed too lifeless. She held the photo frame on the side table and looked at the photo of her and Shui Xian together. She seemed to be missing him. Thinking of something, she wrapped herself tightly, put on a pair of shoes, wrapped a scarf around her head, and locked the bedroom door. Then she opened the wide window and looked outside. After carefully observing everything, she jumped out of the window. She might not like to wander around this estate but she was familiar with everything here. She even knew about the distribution of CCTV cameras. She could climb up and down without any worry. She ran out towards Shui Xian''s bedroom and looked to find the best ce to climb up. She looked at the tall tree, then she picked up a few pebbles keeping them in her pockets, and only then did she climb up the tree. Finding afortable position on the tree branch, she threw a pebble to knock on the window.

    When one didn''t work, she used another one and another one.

    Finally, the window opened and the confused Shui Xian appeared in front of her. Because of the darkness, he couldn''t find Raelle immediately. He walked on to the balcony and looked around to see how was throwing pebbles at his window when he heard the familiar voice of Raelle.

    "Hey, beauty!"

    Shui Xian looked toward the tree where Raelle''s voice came from and had a helpless smile ying on his lips. He did not expect the situation to be like this right now. He wasn''t able to sleep missing his wife and here she was. He was so delighted with this turn of event that he couldn''t describe his mood right now.

    "Beauty, won''t you say something?"

    Even though he couldn''t see her expression, he could hear the teasing in her tone clearly. "What should I say?"

    "It''s a beautiful night, with such a beautiful moon in the sky. Would you like go on a tryst with me?"

    "How would I know who is speaking if you won''t even show up?"

    "Tsk. Are you afraid?"

    "I''m very afraid that my wife will be upset."

    "So, you need to ask for permission from your wife even for a tryst?"

    "Yes!" Raelle slowly emerged from the darkness and jumped on the balcony looking at him. "You''re so obedient, I didn''t even know that before."

    Shui Xian walked to her and hugged her tightly, "I was always obedient. And you know that. Also, I only go on trysts with my own wife. How can anyone else be more beautiful than my wife? Even the moonlight pales in front of her."

    "I reallyan''t learn your speaking skills,"mented Raelle in a muffled voice as her face was pressed against his chest. She could feel his vigorous heartbeat at the moment so clearly and it also proved how happy he was to see her right now. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

 Chapter 1407 Yours & Mine

    1407 Yours & Mine

    Shui Xian hurriedly pulled Raelle inside and closed the windows. He even pulled the curtains and turned off the lights leaving Raelle staring at his neat movements with a surprise. "What are you doing?" N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Isn''t it a tryst?" questioned Shui Xian. "I''m giving it the vibe of the tryst. We can''t let others find out that you are here. Isn''t that why you came through the window?"

    "Who said that? Maybe I just wanted to see what Romeo felt like standing under the window of Juliet," answered Raelle seriously making Shui Xianugh at her. He pinched her nose lovingly. Raelle pped his hand away, "What? What did I say wrong?"

    "Nothing," replied Shui Xian and pulled her to sit on the bed. He continued to hold her hand and looked at her face.

    At first, Raelle didn''t say anything but then she couldn''t help asking, "Why? What are you looking at me for?"

    "I am seeing how my wife changed so much this year. If I tell someone that Raelle Xiang went out of her way to climb walls and windows toe and see me, no one would believe me. They might even call me a delulu!"

    "Then let''s not tell others about this. This is a secret between you and me."

    "Wife, although your words sound reasonable, I suspect that you just want to maintain your image in people''s minds."

    Raelle cleared her throat and pushed his hand away saying, "Let''s go to sleep. It''s sote at night now." She dragged him to lie down and finally rested her head on his chest with a rxed expression on her face. Shui Xian was also feeling peaceful once he was able to hug her in his arms. He had also been tossing and turning since he came back. This unfamiliar room also didn''t help so he was even more restless. Who knew that Raelle would give him such a pleasant surprise?

    He was still unable to believe that his wife actually did something so adventurous for him. No wonder he seemed so hateful to Hyson considering that poor guy spent years trying to change Raelle but was able to achieve little. But he was able to achieve a lot without even trying.

    He didn''t have to be envious of Hyson anymore. After all, he was Raelle''s husband. There was a huge difference between the two of them. With these thoughts swirling in his mind, he was able to go to sleep immediately.

    Shui Xian woke up when Raelle was trying to untangle their limbs. "What time is it?"

    "Five in the morning," answered Raelle.

    "What are you doing?" "I need to get back to my room before anyone else wakes up," replied Raelle. Shui Xian instantly woke up and sighed. Raelle patted his chest saying, "You go back to sleep. There is still time."

    "How am I gonna sleep without you?"

    "When I go for a morning run, you are often asleep."

    "That''s because I know that you''d eventuallye back to our room."

    Raelle couldn''t say anything to refute it. She could only say, "Let''s meet at breakfast."

    "No," refused Shui Xian. "I''m gonna find my tracksuit and go for a run with you. I''ll meet you outside!" He did not want to toss around alone in this room likest night.

    "Aren''t you sleepy?"

    "Who cares about sleep? You are more important. I really don''t like the idea of not seeing you in my bedroom."

    "Then let''s meet in about thirty minutes, okay?"

    "Okay," Shui Xian made an ''OK'' sign before walking behind her. Raelle again went back the same way she came in. She did not see anyone around and was easily able to go back to her room. She rxed once she got back and started getting ready for her run. So thirty minutester, she met Shui Xian outside on the track without leaving trace. She even went over to hug Shui Xian and said, "I missed you so muchst night."

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched looking at her acting but he went along, "I missed you more."

    "Why are you both being greasy so early in the morning?" "Why do you care?" retorted Raelle and then ignored Xiang Wai. "Tsk. You and your bad temper!"mented Xiang Wai. "How wasst night?"

    "Why do you care?"

    "I''m your sister, I care about your well-being."

    "You looked quite excited to mest night seeing me in a corner."

    Xiang Wai rubbed her nose as she didn''t expect that she didn''t go unnoticedst night. Raelle was watching everything even if she didn''t say it. Xiang Wai pursed her lips and was reminded of what her brother told her to stay out of trouble with Raelle. Why did she keep forgetting it?

    "Why is Cloe not here?" she chose to change the topic right now. She actually wanted to run away but if she did that then that''d be really shameful. "She went to see her family," replied Raelle. "She''ll be here today. Why? Do you miss her so much?"

    "It''s not that. I just... Well, maybe I do miss her. You are no fun. Ge is boring from eternity. And Fai needs a reason to fight with me. Wait, I think Fai had been nicer to me but that''s scarier. I feel like he is up to something."

    "And you say I have trust issues. You are worse than me," said Raelle. "I know you want a friend. Cloe will be here today. Don''t worry about it."

    "How about I go to pick her up?" asked Xiang Wai. "Where is her hometown? How far is it from here? I heard she doesn''t have a good rtionship with her family. Do you think she''d be fine there?"

    "So many questions? It does seem like you miss her and you are even more concerned about her situation," Raelle didn''t expect this situation at all. She knew that they were getting closer but she didn''t think that their feelings were growing at such speed. "Her hometown is five hours drive away from here but it''d be easier to travel with the chopper. You''d be there in no time. You can ask Uncle Eric to take you there if you want to do so. But if you are going because you are worried about Cloe than there is no need to do so. She isn''t that weakling as she was once. She had grown up a lot in these years. And I wouldn''t have trained her if she wasn''t capable. I believe she''d be able to handle her family."

    "I know she is capable but haven''t you heard that when people be shameless they are scared of nothing. I am afraid she might be entangled by that shameless family. And she is alone which will make her seem like the weaker party."

    "Just go and talk to Uncle Eric, he''ll arrange it all for you."

    "Why don''t you tell him?"

    Raelle gave her a look, "Wai, this family isn''t just mine. Is there anyone who disrespected you here?"

    "No."

    "Then why are you hesitating? You should go and order people around however you want. They are obliged to listen to your orders as they do to mine. There isn''t any difference between the two of us. We both have the same surname."

    Xiang Wai was momentarily stunned when she heard that. She also remembered what Xiang Weimin said yesterday and she had to agree that thankfully, she was tactful just now. If she had said that this estate was hers and she couldn''t be a master here, Raelle might have really not let her go easily.

    But Raelle''s words reminded her that they indeed have the same surname, Xiang. They might be raised differently but they weren''t that different either. "If you don''t boss me around I won''t feel like we are different," retorted Xiang Wai confidently.

    "If you stop being so guilty around me all the time then I''ll stop bossing you around too."

    Xiang Wai was stumped again. "What did you say? How am I guilty?"

    "Aren''t you guilty about ming me for your broken family? I don''t understand why are you not able to let go of it until now."

    "I can''t help it. The more time I spend with you, the more realize how much I missed out on because of my stubbornness. I shouldn''t have been so stubborn back then and avoided seeing you."

    "I don''t like so many sentiments so early in the morning," said Raelle calmly. "I''m going for a run with Xian. If you want toe, thene. If not, you can go find Uncle Eric first to get things ready for you."

    This time, Xiang Wai did not hesitate before agreeing. She was ready to go and find Uncle Eric first. She was looking forward to going to look for Cloe. In this way, she''d be able to see the towns around too. She needed to find something fun to do. It was only right for her to do something fun with a partner like Cloe.

 Chapter 1408 Made You Cry

    Chapter 1408 Made You Cry

    It was in the evening when Xiang Wai came back with Cloe and Cui Xukun. Thetter had actually followed Cloe to her family house to meet her family once. If nothing else, Cloe had to let them know that she was getting married and had to show them her marriage partner too.

    When Raelle met and saw them, she couldn''t tell how things went from their expressions. At least, Xiang Wai seemed like she had a fun day. But that couldn''t prove anything. So, when Cloe came to brief about the work matter to Raelle, thetter asked her, "How was it? Seeing your family after all these months?"

    "It wasn''t anything special," was Cloe''s response as she really thought there was nothing special about it. "Everything was exactly the same. No one changed even a little. They still like to disgust me with their ideas."

    "Did they do something excessive?" questioned Raelle.

    "They wouldn''t dare do anything excessive after seeing the bodyguards you sent with me. Besides, this time Cui Xukun was also with me. They won''t dare touch me like before."

    Raelle agreed that only a fool would touch Cloe in such a situation. But she also knew what kind of a family Cloe had so she purposely left some bodyguards with her. "Did they have an argument with you because of Cui Xukun?"

    Cloe scratched her brow with her index finger as she sat down casually and answered, "How could they not argue? They seem to think that they could control me. Since they have been losing control over me, they have already picked a life partner for me too. So, seeing the partner I chose for myself, they certainly weren''t happy." Cloe shrugged nonchntly, "But seeing them unhappy made me really happy."

    "As long as you are happy," said Raelle. "You are far out of their reach now. Don''t worry about them. Don''t be disappointed too."

    "We get disappointed when we have expectations. I have long lost all expectation associated with my family." Cloe didn''t look sad when she spoke of it and made Raelle rx too. She obviously did not want to see Cloe being entangled by her shameless family. She had seen what kind of people they were. And she had no good opinion of them. "By the way, do you want to know something funnier?"

    "What?"

    "That brother-inw of mine actually looked at me with disappointment. He actually had the audacity to say that I let him down as if I betrayed him or something. That look on his face was so disgusting that I punched him. I''m pretty sure I broke his nose but I don''t regret it at all."

    "You mean that ex-boyfriend of yours?" questioned Raelle. She also didn''t think that someone could stoop so low. After doing all that to Cloe, he married her sister and was still trying to make Cloe guilty. What the hell was wrong with his brain? No, she doubted that he even had a brain. What a coward!

    "Don''t remind me that he was my ex-boyfriend. It reminds me how much of a blind fool I was back then. I can''t bring myself to face my previous self who actually fell for him."

    "Women often get confused by men who know to sweet-talk,"mented Raelle as if she knew all about this. As if she had a long experience. "And women who had been undermined by their own families all their lives are even easier to deceive. Such scumbags know how to see through women and how to control them too. Don''t me yourself. See? You weren''t hopeless. Didn''t you manage to grow out of it all ande out strong now?"

    Cloe smiled at Raelle and said, "You are talking as if you know all about it."

    "It''s all about human psychology. Why else would I be able to understand it? Do you think I have met scumbags? No thanks. I don''t want such an experience at all."

    Cloe smiled at Raelle and said, "You are talking as if you know all about it."

    "It''s all about human psychology. Why else would I be able to understand it? Do you think I have met scumbags? No thanks. I don''t want such an experience at all."

    Cloe chuckled at Raelle''s words, "Then should I believe that the reason you affirmed my work was to bring me confidence."

    Raelle looked up at her but didn''t answer. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "You were clearly a person who had few words. But for some reason, from a certain day whenever I did a good job, you''d say ''Good!'' Even if it was just one word, it was an affirmation of my work. How strange that I hadn''t even noticed this detail before. You were clearly telling me that I''m not useless and I have my own strengths."

    "Have you forgotten how I made you cry?" reminded Raelle.

    "You did nothing wrong at that time too," replied Cloe. "It was my fault that I mixed up the data for our project which led to almost a big loss if not for your attentiveness. So, I deserved that. I was sad about it for a long time but I was never mad at you for you. I have always been only mad at you when you made me work overtime."

    "I think you are thinking too much. I had no noble intentions behind my actions."

    "I would not believe that," replied Cloe. "You y a big role in what I have be today. I am very happy that I met you as my boss."

    "You have said it so many times that I am tired of it now. Don''tpliment me so much. I''m not ttered enough to lessen your burden. Don''t forget that I''m going on a long honeymoon after this. You have a lot of work waiting for you."

    Cloe''s lips twitched and she felt like she just wasted her sentiments on Raelle. This boss was as cruel as ever! How could she pity this employee of hers? She was really overthinking. She should be prepared for long working hours in the uing time.

    "It''s okay. After youe back, I''ll also go on a long vacation."

    "Why? What''s your reason?"

    "I also have to get married and go on a honeymoon. Isn''t that my right as well? Are you gonna take that right away from me?"

 Chapter 1409 Sisterly Bond

    Chapter 1409 Sisterly Bond

    "Why are you both working even now?" "Herees your tail," said Raelle when she heard Xiang Wai''s voice.

    Cloeughed at Raelle''s words. But she didn''t refute it, she also felt like Xiang Wai had been following her like a tail these days. She did not expect her toe to pick her up today. She was so surprised when she saw Xiang Wai at her family house. Her heroic figure really intimidated her family more than the two bodyguards around her. "We are done with work," answered Cloe to Xiang Wai.

    Xiang Wai sighed, "I think you should keep a certain distance from Raelle. She is infecting you with her workaholic virus."

    "Oh, so now I''m infected with a virus too?" Xiang Wai rolled her eyes at Raelle, "Little sister, there are plenty of things wrong with you but we still ept it all since we are family. But you should really stop infecting Cloe with your workaholic virus. Let her live her life."

    "But she has long been infected though," was Raelle''s response.

    Xiang Wai looked at Cloe who pursed her lips and nodded to agree with Raelle.

    Xiang Wai sighed, "I think you both are wrong."

    "Oh?"

    "Really," replied Xiang Wai. "Today, I asked Cloe what is fun around and we went to a couple of ces and had so much fun. Do you know what does that mean?"

    "What does it mean?"

    "It means that the workaholic virus isn''t deeply rooted in her bones yet. Deep down, she is still a lively girl who knows how to have fun. If there is work, then she''ll definitely bury herself in work but if she has time, she''ll look for some enjoyment too. She certainly knows how to live unlike you whose whole existence revolves around work, work, and work!"

    Cloe raised her brow at Xiang Wai in surprise while Raelle looked at Cloe with a thoughtful look in her eyes. She actually didn''t think that Cloe was a workaholic like her. She could clearly see the resignation on Cloe''s face oftentimes when she had to work overtime. She was someone who was always looking forward to weekends. "Give Cloe some personal time," said Xiang Wai as she pulled Cloe up to leave. "Also, stop wasting time here talking about work. Shouldn''t you take advantage of this time to spend it with Shui Xian? You''ll have to separate again in a while. Make the best use of this time."

    When Xiang Wai took Cloe far away from Raelle, only then did Cloe ask in confusion, "What do you mean by separation? What happened? What did I miss?"

    Xiang Wai looked behind her to make sure that Raelle wasn''t behind them before telling Cloe what happenedst night and how Hyson tricked Raelle into living apart from Shui Xian too. Cloe was also surprised but also ended upughing with no sympathy.

    "I did not think Hyson could y like this."

    "I also think I have been underestimating him too much."

    "Although I know it''s unkind, I still want tough some more at this situation. My poor Chief! Who knew she''d have such a day."

    "You don''t feel bad for her at all, eh?"

    "Do you?" questioned Cloe.

    Xiang Wai shook her head, "I''m very happy. This feeling of schendenfruede. This feeling ofughing at Raelle''s expense is so new and refreshing that I''m still bubbling with wicked joy."

    They were so busyughing that they both didn''t notice when Raelle came to stand behind them and heard thest words. Even if she didn''t hear the whole conversation, she got the gist of it. She did not find theirughter and eyesore but she did have a feeling of wanting to do something about it.

    Was she someone who anyone couldugh at? What was she? A joke?!

    Raelle put her fist in front of her mouth and coughed startling the souls out of Xiang Wai and Cloe who froze. They both mechanically looked behind and seeing Raelle, they instantly felt a little cold.

    "Having fun, are we?" asked Raelle with no visible emotion. But for some reason, it left the both of them feeling worse.

    They did not expect to be caught like this. Raelle didn''t even make a sound as she walked and they were so busyughing that they ignored her presence. They didn''t even know how much Raelle listened to. But it didn''t matter, she won''t let it go anyway.

    "Since you both enjoy so much seeing me in trouble, shouldn''t I make you happier?"

    Both Xiang Wai and Cloe shook their heads like a rattle before holding their hands and running away. "Running away will solve anything?" mumbled Raelle. "I''ll find a good time to deal with you both. How dare youugh at me?"

    With this thought, she went to look for Shui Xian. On the other hand, Xiang Wai and Cloe did not dare to stay inside and had actually run into the garden. They only stopped when they found suitable bushes to hide behind. Panting, Cloe said, "We should be safe here. Chief won''t condescend herself to run after us to catch us. I don''t think we are so valuable in her eyes." N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "We''ll be safe for now but what about the future? She is petty and holds grudges too," cried Xiang Wai. She pped her mouth saying, "All eviles from the mouth. How many times I was told that but I just didn''t listen. I deserve this."

    Cloe could only pat her shoulder to support her, "You are not alone. And I have it worse since I work under her. She is gonna find time to trip us both in one way or another forughing at her misery. She won''t let this go."

    "Should we plead guilty?" suggested Xiang Wai. "Would that help?"

    "What do you think?" retorted Cloe.

    Xiang Wai sighed, "I highly doubt that it''ll be helpful." She sat down on the grass with no image and looked toward the sky that had darkened now. "I just keep getting into trouble with Raelle. It seems I can never build a sweet sisterly bond with Raelle."

 Chapter 1410 : You Got Fooled

    The day of Raelle and Shui Xian''s wedding finally came.

    The grand estate of the Xiang family was transformed into a scene straight out of a dream, bathed in vibrant red and gold, with an air of festivity that hung thick in the evening breeze. Rednterns swayed gently above, lighting the courtyard in a warm glow, each one a symbol of prosperity and happiness for the new couple. Rows ofnterns stretched across the estate grounds, casting their soft light on the lush greenery and ancient stone pathways, while delicate red silk banners fluttered in the wind, adorned with traditional Chinese characters for love, joy, and longevity.

    A Western-style castle was given aplete makeover. The elements of East and West met so brilliantly that it made people feel like they were walking into a fairytale.

    "You are thest one to arrive," said Mu Chenyan when she looked at Song Xin''ai.

    "I was invited as a guest, not as a family. I should know my limits," answered Song Xin''ai in a mellow voice. Once could not tell that she was dissatisfied with this situation. Maybe she really wasn''t. After all, Song Xin''ai wasn''t one to make a scene over such small matters.

    "Guests have also arrivedst night," informed Mu Chenyan. "No one came on the day of the wedding like you. Do you think we won''t have a guest room for you to stay in?"

    Song Xin''ai shook her head, "I know how kind the Xiang family is and I have no doubt about your hospitality too. But I''d still like to keep my distance when I can. I wouldn''t wanna get wishful expectations."

    "Mom, you are here!"

    Song Xin''ai looked at Xiang Wai who was smiling so brightly that it surprised her. It seemed like Xiang family was a good ce for Xiang Wai to bring back her real temperament which was less violent and twisted but more mischievous and lively.

    "You are looking beautiful, Wai!"

    Xiang Wai looked down at the gown she was wearing and took thepliment with no burden. She also thought she was looking beautiful today. And for once, she was envious of Raelle''s long hair too. She loved her short hair as they made her look heroic but they weren''t a perfect match with her gown. Anyway, her face value could uplift anything. So, she could ignore her short hair too.

    "Why are you sote?" questioned Xiang Wai as she held her mother''s arm.

    Song Xin''ai first looked at Xiang Wai''s fingers wrapped around her arm and then looked up at her face before answering, "I''m right on time."

    "Technically, you arete," insisted Xiang Wai. "But I won''t say much to you about that. Would you like to see Raelle? How about I take you to her?"

    Without even waiting for Song Xin''ai''s answer, Xiang Wai dragged her away. "Wai, I''ll meet Raelleter."

    Xiang Wai stopped when they arrived in a corner where no one else was. She looked around to confirm that no one was around before looking at Song Xin''ai seriously.

    "What is it?" questioned Song Xin''ai once she noticed the change in Xiang Wai.

    "I have to tell you something."

    "Say it already."

    "My cousin had been looking for me," informed Xiang Wai to Song Xin''ai. "Song Daiyu has been trying to contact me sincest week."

    Song Xin''ai frowned, "Why is she looking for you?"

    "It must be because they want to use me to get chummy with Raelle."

    Song Xin''ai shook her head at Xiang Wai, "You are thinking too simply here, Wai. You have a bad rtionship with everyone in the Song family. They don''t dare try to use you as a breakthrough for anything. If it was anyone else, I might have believed that they are trying whatever they can now. But the fact is that the one looking for you is, Song Daiyu."

    Xiang Wai went silent when Song Xin''ai said it like this. Indeed, she had been thinking too simply until now. Maybe her brain was getting rusty these days she spent not using it much. She couldn''t let this continue.

    "Don''t forget what kind of a person Song Daiyu is. She had never liked the way others in the Song family treated you or me. She had even fought for you and even protected you when she could. Even though she is younger than you. But she is a weak child with not much influence in the Song family too. However, she is the most clear-headed person there."

    Xiang Wai agreed with her wholeheartedly. She liked brute force but Song Daiyu liked to use her brain power to fight. She even warned Xiang Wai to not act like a fool by always looking for a fight. Even if she ended up hurting her enemies, she''d be hurting herself in the process too. How to borrow a knife to take a life was always Song Daiyu''s specialty.

    But it was because of her insidious nature that Xiang Wai kept her distance from her even more. She actually knew that Song Daiyu held no malice toward her but her malice toward other people of the Song family was too strong.

    "What should I do then, Mom?"

    Song Xin''ai felt like she was looking at the young Xiang Wai right now, who also looked up to such a look in her eyes and asked her what she should do. How long had it been since her daughter depended on her like this? It had been too long for her to even remember.

    "Although I don''t know what purpose Daiyu has behind looking for you, I can be sure that she won''t harm you. She had never disturbed you before because she knew that you didn''t like her very much. If she has decided to look for you after all this time, she must have had a solid reason behind it. Why don''t you meet her?"

    Xiang Wai fell into deep thought. She knew that her mother was absolutely right. Since Song Daiyu had never taken the initiative before this, then it was worth pondering why was she doing it now all of a sudden. There has to be a reason big enough to make Song Daiyue to her.

    "If she asks for my help, what should I do?"

    "You make your own choices," said Song Xin''ai. "It''s all up to you. But before making any choice, you have to understand what she is up to, right?"

    Xiang Wai nodded in agreement and said, "Come, I''ll take you to Raelle for real this time."

    Song Xin''ai patted her hand saying, "There is really no need for that. I''ll meet herter."

    "Then I''ll take to you Ge," suggested Xiang Wai. "You at least would want to see your grandson, right? It''s not like you can meet him every other day."

    This time, Song Xin''ai didn''t refuse and agreed with her. She followed Xiang Wai to go and find her son and grandson as she did not think it was appropriate for her to look for Raelle right now.

    On the other hand, Mu Chenyan looked in the direction Xiang Wai dragged Song Xin''ai and rubbed her chin, "Isn''t Raelle''s bedroom on that side?"

    "Can''t you tell that Wai was making an excuse?" asked Xia Zhao.

    "But is there a need for that between us? What is it that can''t be told to me? Also, why would I even mind even if she did have some secrets with her mother?"

    "Let her be."

    Mu Chenyan nodded her head, "I should really focus on the wedding as there is so much to do. I tried to remove so many unnecessary rituals, then why are there still so many things to do? Would my Elle be able to do it all patiently while wearing that heavy gown? I can only pray that she doesn''t lose her patience."

    "You can''t doubt Raelle''s patience."

    "Yes, I can''t. But I should still pray for everything to go well. It''s my first time organizing such a wedding. I don''t know what kind of a job I did."

    "You did great," Xia Zhao put his hands on her shoulders.

    "Raelle is already mad about sleeping apart from Xian these days. I should go and check what ns these fools have made for the bride picking ceremony. I hope they won''t make things difficult for Xian or Raelle might smash their heads."

    Xia Zhao chuckled softly, "You also got fooled, Yanzi. I did not expect that."

    "Huh?"

    "Raelle had been sleeping with Xian these days. She jumped down the window every night to look for him. You really underestimated your niece in this matter." Xia Zhao was someone with astute senses. And he was also someone who slept the shortest time in this ce. He had seen Raelle going back to her room early in the morning on the very first day she did it. But he didn''t tell this to anyone as he didn''t think there was a need to do that at all.

    "What?!" Mu Chenyan was shocked beyond belief right now.

 Chapter 1411 : Be Picky

    Raelle stood inside her dressing chamber, gazing at her reflection. Her gown was a masterpiece, a stunning crimson creation hand-embroidered to perfection by Yue Yue''s delicate hands. Golden threads ran through the intricate designs of phoenixes and peonies, shimmering under thentern light. The gown''s long, flowing sleeves brushed the floor as she moved, every single thread showed the love and care that Yue Yue put into every detail of her wedding attire. Her hair was pinned up in an elegant, traditional style, adorned with gold hairpieces and jadebs, with strands of pearls cascading down the sides.

    All this jewelry was taken out from the family''s vault and it showed the beauty of the era that had passed.

    Raelle had no idea that Mu Chenyan already knew about how she had been fooling everyone in the past few days. She believed she did a good job at hiding her tracks but she ignored the anomaly of Xia Zhao who not only woke up earlier but had a habit of walking around when everyone else was sleeping.

    Currently, Raelle put her hand over her chest and felt her own heart beating like a drum. Her heart was fluttering with a mix of excitement and something else... She wondered if that was the anxiousness that Shui Xian spoke of. Her slender and fair finger brushed the golden threads on her chest and smiled to herself.

    Soon, Cloe and Xiang Wai came to join her as her bridesmaids and then followed Mu Chenyan. Although Mu Chenyan had a critical look in her eyes when she looked at Raelle, she couldn''t bring herself to say anything. She was actually feeling a bit sore that her Elle learned to do bad things for a man now.

    She should stop thinking about it or she might close the door at Shui Xian''s face rather than letting him take her Elle away.

    She looked at Raelle''s face and said, "My sweet little Elle, you grew up before I knew it. I don''t know what to say to you right now."

    "You said everything you wanted to say when I got my marriage certificate," reminded Raelle. "And you shed enough tears that day too. Please, let''s not repeat it today. Your makeup is going to be ruined. I still want some good pictures from my wedding day. Not with your makeup running down."

    Mu Chenyan''s emotions were washed up once she heard this and poked Raelle''s cheek, "How could you even say this? Can''t I be a little emotional?"

    "Not today," said Raelle.

    "I''m sending off my daughter, I have the right to feel a little sad."

    "We live right next to each other. I''m not moving to Mars. It''s not possible yet and even if it was, I wouldn''t do it."

    Mu Chenyan sighed, "I really am wasting my emotions on you right now."

    "The groom is here to pick the bride!" A loud voice came from outside.

    Usually, the groom would lead a loud procession to the bride''s home. This procession would light firecrackers and y loud musical instruments. But since Raelle didn''t like loud noises, they decided to skip these things altogether. There was no need to make such a scene at all.

    Outside, Shui Xian was making his way through the bustling courtyard, dressed in a traditional Tang suit--ck trousers matched with a red top, its deep red silk topplementing Raelle''s gown perfectly. His attire was regal, with embroidered dragons swirling up the sleeves and cor, symbols of strength and protection. He carried himself with calm confidence, but the glint in his eyes revealed the happiness he felt inside.

    Once the bridesmaids opened the door, they blocked Shui Xian and his procession, not letting him move forward or even look at the bride until their demands were met.

    "Go easy on me," said Shui Xian in a ttering manner.

    "So spineless!"mented Mu Chenyan. "I don''t know why my Elle loves you."

    Shui Xian grinned at Mu Chenyan, "Yanyan, you picked me for her first. So, you should be going easy on me now."

    "I won''t embarrass you too much," said Mu Chenyan. "Let''s start with something simple. How about you write a poem to express your love for Raelle?"

    "Right now?"

    "What? Don''t you love her? Can''t you do this much? Just one poem and I''ll let you go inside."

    Shui Xian pulled out thick red envelopes saying, "Can''t this work for now? I am too excited to focus and really eager to see my bride too. I can not concentrate enough topose a piece of poetry!"

    "You think Ick money?" retorted Mu Chenyan condescendingly.

    Zhai Yanjun and Cui Xukun looked at Xiang Wai and Cloe respectively saying, "Beautifuldies, how about you let us pass? Can''t you cut us some ck?"

    "Okay," agreed Mu Chenyan before the other two could say anything. "If Cui Xukun does 100 pushups and Zhai Yanjun sings a song, I''ll let you all pass."

    Both Zhai Yanjun and Cui Xukun were stunned. If it was the other way around, it would have been easier. You see, pushups were nothing to Zhai Yanjun but they were different for Cui Xukun who was a littlezy when it came to workouts. And Zhai Yanjun rarely had time in the army to listen to music, what song lyrics would he even remember? It seemed Mu Chenyan knew what was the most difficult for both of them as she decided to do it.

    "Help me. Why are you here as my groomsmen?"

    Seeing Shui Xian''s disdainful eyes, Cui Xukun and Zhai Yanjun gritted their teeth and red at him. But they didn''t say anything because soon orter, they''d need his help when they went to pick up their brides. It was better to be on good terms with your groomsmen so they''d be willing to do something.

    Cui Xukun took off his suit jacket and unbuttoned his sleeves before rolling them up to his forearms. Then he took a deep breath and started doing pushups with full concentration.

    Zhai Yanjun looked at Cui Xukun and then turned to Mu Chenyan who was tapping her feet impatiently and even tapped her watch to indicate to Zhai Yanjun that ''time was ticking''. Zhai Yanjun resigned himself to fate and finally started in a passionate manner.

    "The east is red, the sun is rising..."

    Cui Xukun''s face cracked and he almost fell down while doing pushups managed to find his bnce again.

    "Pfft!" Cloe covered her mouth with her hand to hide herughter but it was difficult to do so.

    Even Mu Chenyan''s lips twitched while Xiang Wai wanted to hide in embarrassment. She could not see this and did not want to acknowledge this boyfriend anymore either. This idiot actually went to sing a patriotic song, where was his brain? But then again, what could one expect from Zhai Yanjun?

    Hyson who had been standing aside and watching the farceughed the loudest and even patted Zhai Yanjun''s shoulders, "Soldier, I was definitely expecting something like this from you. You did not disappoint me." Then he turned to Shui Xian and said, "Xian Ge, this is why one should be careful when picking up groomsmen. Be picky about it, don''t just take whoever is avable!"

    "You can stop being sarcastic," said Zhai Yanjun. "I don''t know any songs. How is it my fault?"

    "You are not at fault at all," replied Hyson. "You did a good job. I am proud of you."

    "I don''t believe it!"

    They all kept a watch on Cui Xukun and finally after giving the red envelopes, Shui Xian was allowed inside. When he rushed in, everyoneughed behind him. Seeing Raelle sitting on the bed with a red veil covering her face, his heart beat was getting out of hand. He really felt like it was his first time seeing his bride.

    He bowed to Raelle slightly and extended his hand toward her, "Raelle, I''m here to take you with me."

    Raelle hummed in response.

    "Let''s go," said Shui Xian.

    "My shoes," reminded Raelle helplessly. She didn''t know why there were so many tricks in one wedding. Which moment was it that she lost her brain and insisted on having a traditional wedding? She was the one asking for trouble. She was really asking for all this trouble.

    Shui Xian knocked on his head as he also realized that he hadn''t found her shoes yet. He looked at Zhai Yanjun and Cui Xukun saying, "Move around already. Let''s look for the shoes. Hurry up!"

    "Why are you in a such hurry?" asked Zhai Yanjun. "We should be patient enough in such situations to think clearly."

    "Shut up!" said Shui Xian. "I''ll see how patient you are on your wedding."

    Zhai Yanjun really sealed his lips and started looking around for Raelle''s shoes now. He could hear Xiang Wai''sughter but he chose to ignore it all under such a situation.

    "Where is it?"

    Raelle lifted her hand to point in a certain direction when Hyson held her hand down, "You should know which team you are in. How can you cheat like this? Where is your integrity?"

    "What am I gonna do with integrity on my own wedding day?"

    "No matter how much of a hurry you are in to get out of this heavy gown, you still need to behave and let him work a little. He needs to understand that marrying you isn''t simple just because he managed to steal away your heart. He has to put some work into it."

 Chapter 1412 : Vows

    "Found it!" announced Zhai Yanjun in excitement. "Now, you can''t say that I''m useless."

    Looking at his proud expression, Shui Xian was not convinced and said, "Open it first."

    Zhai Yanjun opened the box to prove something but insidey a card with a clown drawn on it. His smile fell and he closed the door immediately. He heard Xiang Wai''sughter and gave her a look.

    Xiang Wai stuck out her tongue at him saying, "You really think it''s that easy?"

    Zhai Yanjun sighed and resigned himself to this situation. He turned to get back to finding the shoes. Cui Xukun also found a box from behind the curtain but he didn''t tell anyone and secretly opened it. Seeing the dancing clown card inside, he closed the box, ced it right back where he found it, and pretended like this hadn''t happened at all.

    Shui Xian understood one thing about the people in the bride''s team. They were all troublemakers including Mu Chenyan. They all wanted tough at him too but he won''t let this happen. He will prove them all wrong and find Raelle''s shoes.

    He had to think out of the box now to find the shoes. Where could they hide the shoes which he would never think of?

    After thinking about it for a while, Shui Xian ran to look outside the window. He didn''t find anything but that didn''t dampen his spirit at all. He rushed to the other window and looked down. He smirked when he really saw a box hanging down. He pulled the rope and took the box. Looking inside, he found the red shoes and his smile deepened.

    He knew it!

    How could these people y by the rules?

    See? His thinking out of the box worked!

    He rushed to put the shoes in front of Raelle and then held her feet in her hands to put on the shoes for her with his own hands. Then he went to wash his hands and came back to hold Raelle''s hand, "Wife, let''s go and get married!"

    Raelle tilted her head up and looked at his face through the thin red veil on her head. She looked at his gentle smile and grasped his hand tightly.

    "Hey, why did you find it so soon?" questioned Xiang Wai.

    "Because he understands you all," replied Raelle for Shui Xian. "Don''t bother him now."

    "But we are not done yet."

    "But I''m done," was Raelle''s response, and that shut everyone else up.

    The wedding ceremony was about to begin. The main courtyard was adorned with a grand altar, where the couple would bow to Heaven and Earth, to their ancestors, and finally to each other. Red paper cuttings of double happiness symbols were disyed on every surface, and fragrant incense filled the air. Guests, dressed in their finest attire, sat around in anticipation, speaking in whispers.

    As Raelle was led outside, there was an audible gasp from the crowd. She looked radiant in her red gown, a perfect blend of elegance and tradition. Shui Xian turned to see her, feeling proud that the woman by his side was his wife. His gaze softened as their eyes met through the thin veil, a private moment between them even amidst the grand spectacle of the day.

    Whenever their eyes met, there was an electric spark between them.

    Together, they walked toward the altar, surrounded by the gentle glow ofnterns. The sounds of traditional instruments filled the air, their melodies sweet and harmonious. They performed the ceremonial bows, each movement precise and steeped in meaning, honoring their ancestors and the bond they were about to forge.

    This time, their rtionship wasn''t private but was on disy in front of everyone in their circle who should know about it. The guests came from all over the world. Even the executives from their respectivepanies came to attend this wedding from afar.

    Those who knew Raelle in Country G weren''t surprised by the spectacle but those who had a basic understanding of Raelle through media and business partners were really appalled to see this grand castle which was said to belong to the bride. It showed what kind of status she had.

    There were plenty of people who felt regretful for not trying to get close to Raelle because of her reputation. They only got toe here because of their association with Shui Xian''s business.

    Shui Xian stood before Raelle, the flicker ofnterns casting a warm glow on their faces. His hands trembled slightly as he held hers, but his gaze was steady, full of love that reached deep into his soul. The crowd around them seemed to fade as he focused only on her, his bride, the woman who had forever changed his life.

    "I know that there are no vows in this kind of wedding but I''d still like to say something," He took a breath, his voice steady but thick with emotion. "Raelle," he began softly, his words filled with reverence. "From the moment I met you, my world changed in ways I could never have imagined. You walked into my life with your strength, your grace, your beauty, and without realizing it, you took my heart in your hands."

    He paused, his voice growing a little quieter as he spoke from the depths of his heart. "I thought I knew what love was before you, but you... you showed me that love isn''t just about the happiness we feel in each other''s presence. It''s about the way you challenge me to be a better man every day. The way you calm my storms and be the one ce I can always find peace. You are my guiding star, Raelle, the light that leads me when everything feels uncertain."

    Raelle''s eyes were glued on his face as she didn''t understand why he was saying this right now but she didn''t stop him. As he continued, his words grew more intense, more passionate. "In you, I found someone who is fierce and unyielding, but also tender and kind in her own way. You taught me that love isn''t just about holding on when things are easy, but about standing side by side when life is hard, unafraid of the storms we will face together."

    He squeezed her hands gently, his voice trembling slightly with emotion. "I vow to love you with everything I have, for all the days of my life. I promise to cherish you, to protect you, and to support you in every dream you chase. I will be the man who stands by your side through every challenge, every joy, every sorrow. You are the love of my life, my partner, my everything, and I am so honored to call you mine."

    He paused for a moment, tears glistening in his own eyes now. "Raelle, you are my heart, my soul, the very reason I breathe. I will love you fiercely and endlessly, as long as there is breath in my body, and even beyond that. Today, I don''t just give you my hand, I give you all of meˇŞforever. And I''ll make sure that I always stay as your definition of love."

    The crowd was silent, the emotion in Shui Xian''s voice filling the air, leaving the emotional people''s eyes wet among the guests. His love for Raelle was palpable, his vows a testament to a man who had found the one person whopleted him in every way. Perhaps he was taking this moment to prove to everyone that Raelle was the most important to him and they shouldn''t get any ideas or maliciously specte about their rtionship behind their backs all the time.

    Just because he didn''t say anything didn''t mean that he didn''t know anything at all.

    "No matter how much I learn to talk, I really can''t win against you," said Raelle as she squeezed his hand feeling the emotions surging in her heart. She knew that only this man could bring such intense emotions to her. She could never feel this way with anyone else. "Then I''ll be keeping an eye on you to make sure that you fulfill all these vows."

    Shui Xian wiped the tear that escaped his eye and smiled at her, "Please, do keep an eye on me. Keep a close eye. Never let me escape."

    "I''ll have to tie you with myself then."

    Shui Xian showed her their intertwined hands saying, "We are already tied together, darling. And this bond is stronger than anything else."

    "I feel a little envious," said Mu Chenyan.

    "Why? Because we didn''t hold a wedding like this?" questioned Xia Zhao. "If you say..."

    Seeing his eager expression, Mu Chenyan squeezed his arm, "Don''t you dare think about letting me go through this."

    Xia Zhao tsked at her, "No wonder Raelle is so afraid of trouble. She definitely takes after you."

    "Of course, my daughter will take after me," replied Mu Chenyan smugly but Xia Zhao could see the mist in her eyes, indicating that she wanted to cry right now but was holding herself back.

 Chapter 1413 : Intertwined Hearts

    "Won''t you say something to me?" asked Shui Xian when he went back inside the house to change into another suit. They were going to toast the guest after this but before that, Raelle had to change into another gown.

    "Why didn''t you ask me to say something when you were making your heartfelt vows to me in front of everyone?" asked Raelle because now they were alone. What was the point of asking her to make a vow or say something to him now?

    "I wanted to take that chance to let everyone know that feelings between us are more real than gold. But as for your vows... Those are only for me to hear. I don''t want anyone to be a part of that."

    "Tsk. As I said, I really can''tpete with you in sweet-talking," said Raelle. As he took off the veil from her head, he looked at her gorgeous face and she held his hand against her face saying, "I don''t have any groundbreaking words for you. But I can promise you that as long as you are willing, I''ll always hold this hand of yours. No matter how many differencese in life, I''d still find a way to hold this hand tightly. I don''t have a habit of letting go so you can rest assured that you are my forever."

    Shui Xian was pleased with her words and shared a long and intense kiss with her, ruining her red lipstick. Raelle didn''t push him away even when he almost snatched all the oxygen from her lungs, she still couldn''t bring herself to push him away.

    When Shui Xian pulled away, he looked at her misty eyes and almost had the urge to capture her lips again. But it wasn''t the time for that. The guests were still waiting outside. It wasn''t good for them to stay inside for so long.

    So, with some reluctance, he pulled away. Thinking of the wedding night, he decided to have some control for now.

    "Help me take these off," once he pulled away, Raelle started ordering him around naturally as she pointed at the heavy headdress. This jewelry was really heavy, her neck was getting stiff from all this weight.

    Shui Xian didn''t say anything and slowly started to take off all the jewelry that made her ufortable. After that, he also helped her out of the heavy red gown. Raelle took out thee champagne gold-colored gown and put it on. Shui Xian zipped it up for her and went to change into his own ck suit too.

    Then he called the stylists in and left the room to them.

    The stylists didn''t take long as they only had to change Raelle''s hairstyle and make some minor adjustments to Raelle''s makeup. After getting ready again, she opened the door and smiled at Shui Xian who was waiting outside the door for her. Unlike the red gown which was flowy, this champagne gold-colored gown was body hugging. It embraced Raelle''s curves making them look even more alluring.

    "How is it?" asked Raelle.

    "Beautiful!"

    "Don''t you get tired of saying it?"

    "I''ll never get tired of saying it," replied Shui Xian as he took her hand. "I think I enjoy it more and more now topliment you. Every time it makes me feel how blessed I am to have such a beautiful wife."

    "Okay, okay. There is no need to continue."

    "But I can continue," he told her.

    "Oh? Then why didn''t youpose a poem for me when Yanyan asked you to?"

    Shui Xian rubbed the nape of his neck and smiled awkwardly, "I was too impatient to get to you and really couldn''t focus at that time. My brain was chanting, ''Need to get my wife. Need to see my wife.'' With my brain filled with all that, how was I supposed topose anything? I couldn''t even think straight."

    "But your brain worked fine when you were looking for the shoes," reminded Raelle.

    "Isn''t it because all my senses came alive once Iid my eyes on you?"

    Raelle''s lips curled up slightly and pushed his face away saying, "Look straight. Stop looking at me or you''ll fall."

    Shui Xian chuckled but listened to her words. He indeed needed to focus on the path ahead. He couldn''t stumble on this big day of his life.

    As the night wore on, the festivities continued outside. Guests gathered around tablesden with traditional dishes and Western dishes. It could be said that there was plenty to choose from for everyone. Laughter and cheers echoed throughout the estate, the joyful atmosphere infectious.

    Looking at this scene, Shui Xian realizes once again that he married Raelle. Although they had been married for a long time, she was rightfully hers in front of the whole world now. He didn''t know why he was feeling so emotional about it. But it was all so beautiful and perfect that it felt like a dream to him.

    In hisst wedding, since his father wasn''t really happy or excited about it, he had to arrange everything with the help of the servants. But this time, he was practically a hands-off groom who barely did anything. All he had to do was get together with his wife to pick the best option to their liking and the rest was none of his business.

    Once they came out again, the crowd gave them a round of apuse to wee them with joyous smiles. Raelle and Shui Xian moved from one table to another to toast the guests. It took them almost over an hour to be done with all the guests. Raelle didn''t even realize before that there were so many people there.

    She clearly saw how Mu Chenyan struggled with the guest list and kept adding or removing some people. There were certainly a lot of people who were purposely left out of the guest list and yet, when the time came, the guest list was still very long.

    Raelle was d that she was known for her anti-social character and that no one would force her to start a casual conversation. In fact, everyone would rather that she doesn''t even do the honor ofing to their table to toast as they couldn''t bear this honor at all. It was too much pressure to take for them. It was for this reason that everyone just toasted and said a few words of blessing and sent the couple to the next table.

    Who would dare to force Raelle Xiang to drink more?

    Shui Xian found it rather funny but he was also d that it ended sooner than he expected. He was okay but neither did he want Raelle to drink too much nor did he want her to stand for so long and greet people.

    Raelle and Shui Xian finally had a moment to themselves, slipping away from the crowd to stand under a grand, ancient tree at the edge of the venue decorated for the wedding ceremony. The rednterns still flickered in the distance, casting a warm, golden light on the couple as they stood hand in hand. The breeze rustled the leaves above, and in that quiet moment, surrounded by the legacy of their families and the traditions that had brought them together, they shared a silent vow of love, their hearts intertwined as they began this new chapter of their lives.

    Shui Xian tilted his head to look at her and she turned to look at him. As their eyes met, they smiled at each other. Shui Xian pulled up their intertwined hands and kissed the back of her hand piously.

    "Raelle!"

    "Hm?"

    "I love you!"

    "I know," she replied like she always did making Shui Xianugh out loud.

    It was just an answer he was very familiar with and was used to as well. But it filled his heart with different emotions every time. Before he could react, she kissed the side of his face standing on tip-toes.

    "But you don''t know much..."

    "About what?"

    "About the fact that..." her lips moved closer to his ears and her hot breath made him feel itchy. He resisted the urge to capture her waist and pull her closer, waiting patiently for her next words. "I love you too."

    Shui Xian''s eyes widened for a moment with a brilliance that wasn''t seen often. The moonlight filtered through the leaves and the silvery moonlight caressed their frames as they stood gazing into each others'' eyes full of love for each other.

    He finally held her waist in his arms and pulled her close saying childishly, "But I still love you more."

    "Is this apetition now?"

    "I don''t care. I just love you more."

    "Okay, okay. I believe you. If I didn''t believe you why would I be standing here?"

    Shui Xian smiled at her and dropped a kiss at the corner of her mouth saying, "But I know that you love me very much. After all, only my love can make you go through all this. Who is in the world capable enough to make Raelle Xiang wear such heavy dress and go through this troublesome ceremony? Only I can do it."

    "Feeling proud?"

    "I''m on cloud nine."

    "Don''t fall."

    "It''s okay. I know you won''t let me fall."

 Chapter 1414 : Running Into Bad Luck

    "Where did the bride and groom go? Do these two even realize that it''s their wedding? How can they disappear like this?" Xiang Wai was pissed off by the irresponsible behavior of her own sister. "How could she act so recklessly on her wedding?"

    "The wedding is over," reminded Zhai Yanjun.

    Xiang Wai pped his hand away from her waist, "Don''t touch me. You are not better. You have no sense of responsibility as well."

    Zhai Yanjun rubbed his hand which was turning red from the hit and stung so badly. His girlfriend didn''t have delicate hands, they were like hammers that fell on him. "What did I do?" he looked aggrieved right now.

    Xiang Wai did not pay attention to his aggrieved look and even hmphed as she turned her head away. She looked sassy when she was mad but it made her look hot too. Zhai Yanjun wanted to hold her in his arms and ravage her right there and then but sadly, he couldn''t do it. He looked at his hand. He understood that if he even took a step forward, he''d lose both hands right now.

    "You said you''de early and then we''ll go around the Country G enjoying the hot spots and eating delicious food. What happened? When did youe?"

    Zhai Yanjun lowered his head with guilt, he couldn''t really stand strong when it came to this point as he was the one in the wrong. "Just this morning."

    "Exactly! You can just this morning and what did you tell me? Oh, that you have to leave tomorrow morning."

    "There is an urgent mission. I almost missed the wedding. Wai!" Zhai Yanjun really felt wrong. It''s not like he didn''t want to spend more time going around with his girlfriend but it wasn''t possible with his work. "You should understand me better. I''m a soldier. How can I leave behind my duty? Can I be willful like this?"

    Xiang Wai wasn''t really that mad because the problem was that she did understand the situation too clearly. She was also a soldier, how could she not understand his dilemma? But she also wanted to spend a little more time with her boyfriend.

    Zhai Yanjun noticed that her expression had eased up a little so he moved closer slowly moving his hand on her waist and firmly hugging her from behind. "Don''t be mad at me, okay? I''ll make it up to you as soon as I get the chance to do so. You also know that I want to spend all my time with you. How could I be happy about this situation but I''m also helpless here."

    Xiang Wai leaned into his arms and sighed, "Forget it. Don''t say more and remind me again that we don''t have much time. Let''s not argue in this little time. I''ll send you to the airport tomorrow morning."

    "Okay," agreed Zhai Yanjun happily. He felt someone staring at him and turned to find Hyson sipping a drink as he was looking in his direction. Zhai Yanjun smiled at Hyson when their eyes met and Hyson rolled his eyes in response.

    Zhai Yanjun chuckled, "Little brother, you don''t have to be so disgusted with me."

    "I didn''t even say anything," replied Hyson.

    "I heard you did some big things since you came here."

    Hyson knew what he was referring to and felt secretly proud of his remarkable feet, "I am just that awesome. You can''tpare."

    "Yeah, I really can''t," agreed Zhai Yanjun without any hesitation or burden.

    Xiang Wai was also looking at Hyson right now and questioned, "Did you see Raelle and Xian?"

    "You should forget about them," said Hyson.

    "But we have to send the bride and groom to the bridal chamber and what about the bridal room pranks?"

    "Don''t push your luck," was Hyson''s advice. "Has Ellie been too easy these days that you think she''d go along with everything? If you dared to be a hindrance on her wedding night, she''ll chop you into small pieces and feed it to the eagles!"

    "You are talking as if she has pet eagles."

    "Even if she has none, she can always find some. Money is the real king of the world in this era and what Raelle Xiang doesn''tck is also money."

    "Hey, I don''t have any retort for this," sighed Xiang Wai. "Why are you standing here alone? What about your group mates? Aren''t they all invited to the wedding? I think I saw them earlier."

    "They are here," replied Hyson. "I was with them until now. But I needed some me time too. So, I came to find this secluded spot to enjoy the moon but ended up running into you too showing off your love. Oh, in fact, earlier, I found another spot but I run into Cloe and Cui Xukun. I had to change my spot but my bad luck was that I ended up again seeing an unknown couple hugging and kissing behind the tree. So, I finally came here and felt that this ce was peaceful enough. Who knew you two woulde to ruin it again for me? Can''t you all get a room? Is there a shortage of rooms in this castle?"

    Xiang Wai tried to suppress it but ended upughing so hard that she curled up her body. She did not expect to hear Hyson''s tragic experience in this short period of time. Poor guy!

    Howe he was running into these things head-on everywhere? How bad was his luck to have to go through this again and again in one night?

    "No wonder your face looks so ugly,"mented Xiang Wai.

    Hyson didn''t want to pay attention to these two but he really did not want to leave this spot either as he was really satisfied with it. "Both of you, go away!" He gave a conviction order immediately. He would tolerate these two especially when theyughed at him like this.

 Chapter 1415 : Something Practical

    Shui Xian couldn''t wait to take Raelle to their bridal room. It was already close to midnight and he didn''t know how long all these festivities were gonna go for but he was done with it. He seemed more anxious to leave than Raelle and was so relieved when Mu Chenyan told him to take Raelle back to their room.

    Shui Xian and Raelle stepped into their bridal room, the soft creak of the wooden door giving way to a world bathed in the warm, inviting glow of red. The room was adorned with traditional Chinese wedding symbols, from delicate silk drapes embroidered with gold to the soft shimmer ofntern light that bathed the room in a golden hue. Red candles flickered on every surface, casting dancing shadows on the walls and filling the air with a subtle warmth. The scent of fresh flowersˇŞpeonies and orchidsˇŞdrifted through the room, a sweet, intoxicating fragrance that lingered on the senses.

    Raelle stopped in her steps when she looked at the scene before her. She had just gotten ready in the room earlier and it didn''t look like this at that time but now, in just a few hours, it felt like someone changed the entire room. She almost felt like she walked into the wrong room, it looked so unfamiliar.

    Shui Xian was also pleasantly surprised, he hurriedly closed the door and led her toward the bed. The bed was the focal point of the room, draped in red silk sheets embroidered with phoenixes and dragons, symbols of harmony and eternal love. A pair of red candles stood at either side of the bed, their soft light casting an ethereal glow over the space, and delicate rose petals were scattered across the sheets, creating a path of romance leading to the bed. The air felt heavy with tradition, with love, with the promise of what was toe.

    Raelle sat down on the bed but immediately jumped up saying, "What is under the nket?"

    Shui Xian looked at her before he went to turn over the nket.

    Raelle frowned, "Who scattered these red dates and peanuts on my bed? And what else is here?"

    "Longans and lotus seeds," replied Shui Xian.

    "Is this another prank? Who did it? I''m gonna smash their head."

    Seeing how Raelle was ready to shed some blood tonight, Shui Xian immediately hugged her from behind to stop her, "This isn''t a prank. It''s a tradition."

    "Tradition?"

    Shui Xian put his face close to her ear and whispered, "These things symbolize fertility. It''s believed to bring good fortune and prosperity to the married couple and it''s also a wish for the married couple to have a baby soon. It''s the ultimate good luck."

    "How is this gonna help us have a baby soon?" retorted Raelle. "For that, we have todo something practical."

    Shui Xian''s lips twitched and he tried hard to hold back hisughter at the moment. He kissed her earlobe saying, "Aren''t you gonna take a shower? Or should we get started with something practical?"

    Raelle was very tempted but she held back and pushed him away, "No, not right now. I have to take off this gown. These jewels on this gown are no less heavier than the other gown. I have never worn such troublesome clothes in my life before. And I am never wearing them again."

    "We are only getting married once," reminded Shui Xian. "Of course, you don''t have to wear this ever again."

    "Help me unzip it, I''m going to freshen up," Raelle pointed at the zipper and ordered Shui Xian.

    Shui Xian nodded his head and slowly unzipped the gown with his hand purposely brushing her delicate skin underneath that seemed to have a different glow under the light of the candles in the room.

    "Don''t," said Raelle. She turned around and stood in front of him. She slowly peeled the gown off of her body, leaving only her underwear. Shui Xian''s pupils dted and he sucked in a cold breath. He stretched out his hand to catch her but she stepped back, "No!"

    "Baby, don''t do this," pleaded Shui Xian.

    Raelle shook her head, "It''s not possible right now. Be patient."

    "I''ve been patient for days," he reminded her. They had only been sleeping innocently these days and did nothing else. He didn''t get to kiss her properly these days. It was even more difficult to resist when she was standing in front of him and seducing him like this.

    "Just a little more patience is not bad."

    Shui Xian shrugged and sighed to himself. "Please, go ahead. Bute back soon. I''m waiting."

    "I know," she replied before going to take a shower.

    Shui Xian thought that if he waited for Raelle toe out, then he would also take fifteen to take a shower. Wouldn''t it waste a good thirty minutes? No! It''s uneptable!

    He rushed out of the bedroom and ran into Zhai Yanjun who gave him a weird look. "Shouldn''t you be enjoying your night?"

    "Shut up! I''m going to take a shower in the other room. It saves time! You don''t understand anything."

    Zhai Yanjun rolled his eyes at him, "Indeed, I understand nothing. I''lle to you for advice if I ever need it. For now, I don''t need it."

    "Of course, you don''t need it," replied Shui Xian. "You aren''t getting married any time soon."

    "Shui Xian!"

    Shui Xian ran away without giving a chance to Zhai Yanjun to get to him. There was no need to invite more hatred toward himself on this good day of his life. He''d let go of Zhai Yanjun for tonight. He''d piss him off another day.

    Zhai Yanjun really was mad at Shui Xian right now. He was already upset that he had not much time to spend with Xiang Wai and now, Shui Xian reminded him that he couldn''t get married soon either. He had to wait at least a year before he could get married to Xiang Wai. He almost shed tears for himself at this time.

 Chapter 1416 : Just Him

    By the time, Shui Xian came back to the bedroom, Raelle hadn''te out yet. Shui Xian was about to knock on the bathroom door when the door opened and there she stood wrapped in a tiny towel that barely covered anything. She flipped her hair and gave him a look that Shui Xian found quite flirtatious.

    Wait? Was his wife learning this too now?

    Seeing her cheeks flushed from the steam, Shui Xian wanted to take a bit of those rosy cheeks and he did so. Raelle''s eyes widened when she understood what he was doing and pped his arm, "Are you gonna eat me like this?"

    "I''m gonna try eating in every way possible!" he replied with a firm look in his eyes.

    He licked her cheek where his teeth had just bitten her and then ced a kiss before pulling back.

    Raelle pointed at his pajamas saying, "I''m gonna have to undress you? Why are you so inconsiderate today? Don''t you know that I don''t like too many barriers between us?"

    Shui Xian chuckled and hurriedly pulled his shirt off, throwing it aside carelessly. He didn''t give a damn about where it well. He held her arm and flipped her as he hugged her waist and caressed her stomach through the towel. His other hand pushed her hair aside and he ced a hot, wet kiss on the back of her neck.

    His hands moved up on her breasts and he pressed them hard. He loved the feeling of firmness of her breasts, they were fleshy but soft too. And just right for his big hands to knead.

    He pulled her towards the bed and in no time, pulled off the towel that covered her naked beauty. No matter how many times he saw this, he''d always get excited. His fingers rubbed her deep cleavage, feeling the soft flesh around those firm and gorgeous mounds.

    Bowing his head, he collided his lips with hers in a searing kiss. His hand found her jaw, tilting her head to deepen the kiss. Her lips were as soft as ever, warm enough to heat up his entire heart and body. He could taste the sweetness of hers as she opened her mouth, allowing his tongue to trace the inside of her mouth, making a moan escape from her throat.

    He pulled back with a wild expression saying in a breathy tone, "I wanted this night to have a sense of ceremony and take it slow. But you... For the life of me, I can not let you go. I just can''t stop myself from losing control whenever I get a taste of this sweet mouth."

    Raelle''s arms wrapped around his neck as she looked at him with a misty look in her eyes saying, "People say I have a poisonous mouth, have you forgotten, Master Xian?"

    "They would never know what kind of delicacy this mouth is," he replied.

    Raelle licked her lips and Shui Xian''s darkened as he followed that pink tongue. He knew she did it purposely because, between the two of them, she had less patience when it came to getting down and dirty. This was one of those times when Raelle would be the clingy one between the two of them and she would cling to him without any barrier of clothes between them.

    She was the perfect example of ady on the streets and a beast under the sheets.

    No one would recognize this Raelle who was so passionate that it burned his very soul and made him want to die on her.

    "I think you are poisoned, Master Xian,"mented Raelle seriously.

    "Am I?"

    "Yes! It''s a slow poison that worked on you very well. Why else would you think that my mouth is sweet?"

    Shui Xian smiled at her as he yed with a strand of her hair saying, "So, is this poison called love?"

    "How did you know?"

    "I''m smart," he replied before he captured that sweet mouth again and stirred his tongue inside to take in all the sweetness within it.

    This time, she kissed him back and it was just... glorious. Her hands pulled his hair, their bodies flushed together. She would never hold back when she kissed him and wanted to give all of her without any hesitation. Maybe she held back when they first got together and by now, they were like an old couple who had done the deed countless times and there was no shyness or embarrassment between them.

    Well, there was no shyness even when they were really a newlywed couple but by now, whatever reservedness there was, had flown out the window. What was left behind was familiarity.

    There was not an inch of his body that she had seen or touched, and the same was true for Shui Xian. He knew how to bring her to the height of ecstasy and she knew how to make him weak for her.

    Both of them were lost in the desire for one another, both unable to resist the invisible pull between them, not like there was ever a need to resist such a thing. Her hands roamed on him, touching his cheeks, gripping the strands of hair on his neck as her mouth was engaged in a fierce battle of pleasure.

    There was no need or desire in her to be the dominating party when they were in bed. She liked taking the initiative but still enjoyed the pleasure only he could bring to her. Just this face alone was enough to please her. Why else would she agree to marry him so easily?

    There were so many handsome men in the world and around her. It was such a mystery to her why her eyes were only stuck to his handsome face in the crowd. How did he manage to have everything that her subconscious mind was looking for? She didn''t even know what she wanted but once she first met him, she just knew that she wanted him.

    If there had to be a man in her life then it had to be him! Just him! And until now, she did not regret that decision even for a second. She believed that he won''t make her regret it ever!

 Chapter 1417 : Tiring

    Shui Xian grabbed Raelle''s right ankle with his hot hands and ced it on his shoulder. His lips pressed against her ankle and then moved upward. He left wet burning kisses in its wake. As he reached Raelle''s inner thigh, she felt a tingling sensation and squirmed a little but Shui Xian held her down.

    As his breath brushed against her core, Raelle thought she would feel those delicious lips on her core but he seemed to be bent on teasing her as he bypassed her core and ended up kissing her left inner thigh.

    "Stop teasing," demanded Raelle as she grabbed his hair. Shui Xian smiled at her and decided to really stop teasing her. Raelle let out a long and loud exhale when she felt the pad of his tongue on her core.

    He didn''t need any prompting, he immediately used his tongue, his lips, and his teeth to bring her immense pleasure. He seemed to want to pleasure the fucking living daylight out of her. He caressed her thighs, down to her legs, and spread them for better and deeper ess. As his tongue continued the relentless assault on her core going as deep as possible, his hands were reaching out to her breasts. The moan he let out vibrated through her, making her cry out.

    "Keep your eyes on me,"manded Shui Xian. Raelle peeled open her eyes and looked at him, her gaze hooded at the sight of him between her legs.

    "Don''t stop!" she urged him as her long legs hugged his neck.

    Shui Xian faked a cough and Raelle squinted her eyes at him. Shui Xian gave her a sweet smile before he started to eat her up again. He knew how to use his mouth to his advantage and she was putty in his hands. She groaned aloud when he pushed his three fingers inside of her, pumping in and pumping out fast, while his mouth never left her sensitive bundle of nerves.

    The climb toward her peak was fast and she came undone when he made the hooking gesture with his fingers inside of her. He hit straight at her g-spot and coupled with his thumb touching her butt, fireworks exploded behind her eyes and Raelle screamed out her orgasm, shameless and uncaring.

    He didn''t stop seeing her orgasm but continued his assault and as if the first tide wasn''t enough, he soon brought her to the second one that hit her like a tidal wave without warning. Her mouth opened but no sound came out of it as she seemed like a mere prisoner to her pleasure at this moment. She gasped andy limp on the bed. She couldn''t continue to hug his neck and her shaking legs dropped down too.

    She could feel Shui Xian''s eyes on her so she looked back at him, and managed to see the wicked gleam in his eyes. Along with wickedness, there was a lot of possessiveness in his eyes. She could feel like his animalistic side wanted toe out and fuck her right now. Raelle licked her lips at this thought.

    He dropped a final kiss on her core with a naughty grin which made her jerk because her folds were still sensitive from the sessive orgasms he gave her.

    "This tongue of yours is good at everything."

    Shui Xian licked his lips andughed at her words. "If you''re still able to drop suchments, then I believe my tongue is not that good."

    Raelle unceremonically rolled her eyes at him making himugh harder. Shui Xian hovered over her body and crushed their lips together before she could brace herself. He allowed her to taste their vors mixed together. Without any hesitation, Raelle held her shoulders and pushed him. She turned them over and Shui Xian let her do whatever she wanted without any obstruction.

    He gripped her hips as she moved in a slow slide of her slick folds against his rigid manhood beneath her, chasing friction as his smothered desperate noises made the wetness between her legs turn to a flood. She managed to pull away from his mouth and settled back on her haunches. She eyed him, her palms t on his bare chest as she straddled him. Shui Xian seemed rather leisurely at the moment as he wanted to just watch what she was up to.

    His pretty eyes watched the sway of her breasts intently. "How is the view?" questioned Raelle as she bent down to tug at his earlobe with her teeth, drawing a hiss from him.

    She trailed her hand down the side of his face, his neck, wrapping it loosely around his throat as she nipped at his lips, her tongue darting inside to y with his when he let her in, getting lost in the feel of him. She gently scraped her nails down his chest, enjoying the y of muscles under the skin.

    "The view of my wife is always great no matter which angle," replied Shui Xian when they pulled away from each other. His voice was husky and threaded with a familiar yearning, making her smile, satisfied with the answer.

    He smirked seeing her satisfaction. With his eyes solely focused on her as if charming her, as she reveled in being in control, he flipped them. Raelle squealed in surprise, purring when he settled on top of her, his hips cradled in hers, giving her the promise of friction. Her skin felt tight like she would burst if he didn''t touch her, anticipation bubbling inside of her.

    He braced his arms at either side of her head, nuzzling his nose along her jaw to turn her head to the side and biting down on the fragile skin over her hammering pulse, her hips bucking in reaction and sending a lick of nerves down her torse.

    He chuckled against the skin of her neck, soothing the hurt with a sweep of his tongue, and she moaned loudly.

    The moans and screams of pleasure continued to ring inside the room as the moon outside the window hid behind the clouds. It was at the crack of dawn when things seemed to her died down.

    "Have you been hungry for too long?" asked Raelle as she had no strength left in her body right now.

    "What makes you think that?" Shui Xian was lying on his side with his hand supporting his head. He looked at her flushed face and the traces that he left on her body like artwork. He seemed quite satisfied with his work right now. He brushed the wet strand of her hair that stuck to her face behind her ear.

    "You seemed too energetic today," answered Raelle. She had never faced him like this ever before. He seemed always in control of his desires and always chose to hold back from hurting her even a little bit. But today, he seemed to have let go of everything and wanted to really eat her alive. "There was something different in your eyes tonight. Something I have never seen before."

    "It''s our wedding night," reminded Shui Xian. "Shouldn''t I be a little too excited about tonight? How can I not be though when the woman I love with my life is right in front of me? Did I hurt you?"

    "No," replied Raelle. "It just felt... different."

    Shui Xian gathered her into his arms but Raelle pushed him away, "I''m tired."

    Shui Xian gasped, "No way! My wife gets tired too. How is that even possible?"

    Raelle red at him. "You mister, look at the time! It''s been hours! Am I not supposed to be tired right now?"

    Shui Xian pursed his lips to suppress his proud and smug smile. "Finally, I managed to tire you out."

    "Was that the goal?"

    "Of course," replied Shui Xian. "Every time we had sex, you''d be like nothing happened. You almost made me doubt my ability. So, I decided to prove myself."

    "To whom?"

    "To myself!"

    Raelle sighed, "If you wanted to prove something to yourself, why tire me out? I can''t even feel any of my limbs. Everything is hurting. Especially my waist. You almost broke it!"

    Shui Xian sensibly moved his hands to her waist and started massaging it gently and carefully. "I''ll help you. What am I here for? It''s to serve you in whatever way you want."

    "I wanna wash up and open the windows to let in fresh air."

    Shui Xian rushed to do whatever she ordered as he knew that he was in the wrongst night. He went a little too far in his excitement. He was like a wild beast in heat and couldn''t stop. But who asked this woman to be like his drug? How can an addicted person ever let go of his addiction so easily? He was also an ordinary man with ordinary desires.

    Shui Xian first opened all the windows to let in fresh air and then picked up Raelle from the bed taking her to the bathroom.

 Chapter 1418 : Anything Else To Do

    "Why aren''t theying down yet?"

    Hyson looked at Xiang Wai who was impatiently waiting for Raelle and Shui Xian toe down. When he went to see his group members, she was waiting right here and when he came back, she was still right there waiting for them.

    "Don''t you have anything else to do?" questioned Hyson but then he answered his own question. "Right. You really have nothing better to do right now. Even your fianc¨¦ ran away early in the morning. Poor you!"

    Xiang Wai scratched the tip of her nose and turned her face toward Hyson. ring at him, she gritted out, "Are you looking for a fight?"

    "Why would I be looking for a fight?" retorted Hyson as spread his hands. "I''m just stating facts here. Now, the facts seemed to sting you than there is nothing I can do about that, right?" Taking a movement to appreciate the distorted face of Xiang Wai, he added, "But on a serious note, find something else to do. If nothing else, go to sleep. You stayed up all night just so you can have more time with your fianc¨¦. Now that you have sent him away, it''s time for you to get some rest too."

    Xiang Wai waved her hand, "I''m not sleepy."

    "Then do something else."

    "What?"

    "I don''t know. There is so much to do. But waiting here for Raelle and Xian Ge is the most pointless thing to do."

    Xiang Wai got mad when she heard this. "Why not? They should havee down early in the morning. Didn''t they decide on the traditional wedding? The bride is supposed to serve tea to her inws on the next morning. Where is she? Where is our bride? Oh, that''s right. She is stillzing around in her room at noon. Tsk. Tsk."

    Hyson pursed his lips and rolled his eyes at her, "You are expecting too much from your sister as always. Keep your expectations in check. I''d like to see how early you''de out of your room after your wedding night."

    Xiang Wai touched her cheeks saying, "My wedding night is still far away."

    "Of course, it is! So, be nice! If you pissed off your sister, you''d lose a bridesmaid."

    Xiang Wai shut up when she heard this and said, "I''m definitely not gonna have the Chinese style wedding. I wanna wear a white gown."

    "Discuss this with your fianc¨¦," said Hyson. "Oh, that''s right. He is not here."

    Xiang Wai growled at him with a fierce gaze directed toward him. Hyson shrugged and didn''t take her seriously at all. He was always the fearless one. How could he take her gaze seriously right now?

    "I heard you aren''t staying for long," asked Xiang Wai in a serious tone.

    Hyson was checking his watch which seemed to be not working when he heard that question. He leisurely took off the watch from his wrist and held it in his hand as he answered her, "Yeah. I''m leaving tomorrow."

    "Tomorrow? Isn''t that too soon?"

    "Not really," replied Hyson. "I''ve been here for days. I came a day earlier than you. Ellie and Xian Ge will be leaving for their honeymoon tonight. What am I gonna do here then?"

    "You can do what you were suggesting to me just now," reminded Xiang Wai. "Have fun."

    "Aren''t I staying one more day for that ''fun''?" questioned Hyson as he tapped his watch as if by doing so, it would start working again. "I have been here too many times in life. When I was studying in this country, I spent all of my weekendsing here to annoy Ellie. I have been to all the fun ces here and have had my share of the fun too. I''m only staying until tomorrow because I want to take my friends with me to show them around a little. After that, I''m flying back home since I have a lot of work waiting for me."

    "Right. I always forget that you even came to study here on full schrship," Xiang Wai sighed. "I hate to admit it but you seem to be a talented guy. You have achieved all your sess on your own. You did well. No, I should say you grew up well."

    "Why are you suddenly bing sentimental now?"

    "No reason. It''s just that I think I should be more considerate of you. You are also my brother-inw now."

    "No!" Hyson raised his hand to stop her. "Not your brother-inw. I have said this before and I''d say it again, I have nothing to do with Zhai Yanjun."

    "Do you have to dislike him so much?"

    "I liked him quite a bit until I learned whose son he is."

    Xiang Wai pursed her lips, "It''s not his fault that he shares the same father with you. How can you me him for that?"

    "I don''t me him for it," replied Hyson. "And I don''t care that we have the same father too. But how am I supposed to forget about his mother? It''s not like you don''t know what his mother did to my mother. I am a very petty and vengeful person. And I have no problem in epting that I''m unreasonable too. Yes, Zhai Yanjun is great and all but I hate his mother. That''s something irreconcble between us. The only reason I don''t take out my anger on him is that my mother seems to love him very much."

    "Tsk, I hate that I can''t even argue with you about this." Xiang Wai went silent and continued to look at Hyson''s troubled look as he kept staring at his watch that stopped working. She didn''t even know what he was so tangled about right now. But thinking about Zhai Yanjun, she felt a headacheing on.

    She understood how much Zhai Yanjun liked having a brother but this brother of his was such a difficult person. However, she couldn''t say that Hyson was wrong either. No one knew about Yue Yue''s troubles more than Hyson who grew up watching it all. It''d be wrong to ask him to forget it all, right?

 Chapter 1419 : Good Kids

    They both didn''t realize that someone was standing not far away listening to their conversation. Yue Yue turned her head to look at Zhai Kuijun and seeing the depression between his brows, she didn''t know what to do to ease it. She really couldn''t do anything about it.

    She knew what kind of power she held over her own son. He would do everything as long as it made her happy. But she didn''t want him to live such a life anymore. She didn''t know why but despite all her efforts, her son''s life still seemed to be revolving around her.

    Noticing her gaze, Zhai Kuijun looked back at her and smiled when he saw the concern in her eyes. He shook his head at her to reassure her but it didn''t really help.

    They didn''t make their presence known. Instead, Zhai Kuijun took her out of there.

    Yue Yue thought about it hard before constructing her words and typing them out for him, ''Don''t take Fai''s words to heart. He speaks without thinking.''

    Zhai Kuijun''s smile deepened when he read the sentence and shook his head at her, "No, that''s not right. Fai''s thoughts are deeper than anyone else. He doesn''t speak without thinking. But I don''t me him for having such thoughts either. I''m already d that he didn''t reject me or Yanjun outright. At least, he is trying his best to be civil with us."

    ''This is nothing to worry about. My son might act careless but he would never be rude to people for no reason. He doesn''t dislike Yanjun either. You heard it too. He really liked Yanjun.''

    "Yes, and he changed after knowing Yanjun''s identity." Zhai Kuijun sighed to himself. He really wanted to be a part of his son''s life but it was such a difficult thing to do. Breaking Zhai Yanjun''s defenses was easy but Hyson was different. "I know that he is willing to ept me or Yanjun only for your sake. For your happiness, he can go to any length."

    Yue Yue felt down when she heard this. She didn''t feel proud of having a son who cared about her so much. It felt more like she was the shackle of his own existence. Sometimes, she wondered if she was the reason why her son was said to be an asexual.

    ''Right. He really can do anything as long as it can make me happy. But he doesn''t realize that seeing him putting down his own happiness for my sake only makes me feel worse. I never intended to hold him back but somehow I did exactly that. I was the reason he was outcasted by his peers. No one wanted to y with a boy whose mother couldn''t speak. I even wondered if he med me for that but he never did. He fought like a wolf with all those who pointed their fingers at me. I heard kids whose parents have some disabilities might develop some resentment toward their imperfect parents because that makes them seem different from their peers. But he had no resentment.''

    Zhai Kuijun patted his shoulder as heforted her, "I told you, he was always the sensible one. Why would he me you or resent you for others''s opinions? He is smarter than that."

    ''It''s because he is so smart that he can''t get over some hurdles in his heart. You should be patient with him. This patience mightst a lifetime too. But I believe one day he''ll get over the hurdle in his heart and ept you and Yanjun wholeheartedly.''

    Zhai Kuijun smiled when he read her words and looked up at her, "Do you really think so?"

    ''I know so. He is my son. I raised him. I am pretty sure that he''d cave in once he sees your sincerity. Haven''t you noticed that he never really fights with Yanjun? He never takes his anger out on him. If he was as unreasonable as he says he is, he''d have already had a fistfight with Yanjun. He might throw a verbal jab around but he is never really trying to hurt Yanjun. It''s because Yanjun had always been exceptionally patient with him and even a little doting like an elder brother. And even though Fai looks like he finds him annoying, that''s not the case.''

    Zhai Kuijun thought about it and realized that the rtionship between his two sons seemed to be something like that. He never noticed such details before but now that she pointed it out, he came to realize a lot more things. Hyson seemed to value sincerity a lot. It was Zhai Yanjun''s sincerity that didn''t allow Hyson to do something like take out his anger on Zhai Yanjun. It wasn''t just because of his mother as he said it himself.

    It seemed that Hyson was just as awkward at family rtionships as his best friend Raelle. They both had peculiar family dynamics and their way of getting along with family was also different. Just like Raelle always kept an indifferent attitude toward her two siblings, Hyson did the same with his brother. But deep down, they both really cared even if they weren''t willing to ept it.

    Zhai Kuijun smiled to himself as he thought of this. They were such awkward kids. But they were such good kids too.

    "I''m in no hurry," said Zhai Kuijun. "And I really didn''t take Fai''s words to heart just now. It did make me feel a little ufortable but that''s it. I can''t just go and demand him to ept me all at once. That''d be forcing things. And I don''t want to force him for anything. Even if it really takes a lifetime, I will take my time. I have a lot to prove to him. How can it be done in such a short time?"

    Yue Yue breathed a sigh of relief when she saw his rxed smile. She really didn''t want him to overthink things. No one wanted Hyson to have a good rtionship with his father more than her. Because he needed a father in his life even if it was sote.

 Chapter 1420: Serving Tea

    It was around lunchtime when Raelle and Shui Xian came down. Surprisingly, everyone was waiting in the living room which surprised Raelle. She thought no one would be around but the sneaky smiles made her realize that they purposely had been waiting for her.

    Of course, when else would they get a chance again to tease her abouting out of her room at lunchtime? That was the first one and chances of that happening again were very minor, especially with these people around.

    Because they''d all be living in their own homes once they go back so even if she really got wrecked all night by Shui Xian and couldn''t get up on time, no one would know.

    "Our newlyweds are here!" eximed Hyson excitedly. "Give them a round of apuse!"

    Raelle threw a nce at everyone who actually raised their hands to apuse and that one nce made them drop their hands back down. They avoided her eyes instantly and Raelle was quite satisfied with their reaction.

    Hyson tsked at them all for having no guts at all. "Stop scaring people."

    "I did no such thing," replied Raelle. "What are you all doing here though? Don''t you have anything else to do? Opa, even you are here?"

    Grandfather Xiang rubbed his nose saying, "I only came out for lunch."

    Raelle didn''t expose him right now and said, "Then let''s go and have lunch. I''m famished."

    "Last night must have been rough."

    "Wanna repeat that, Major?"

    Xiang Wai shook her head, "No. I''m fine."

    "I think our Major is waiting for you to serve tea to your father-inw," said Hyson loudly and earned a re from Xiang Wai.

    "Traitor!"

    "What made you think I was loyal to you?" retorted Hyson.

    "Serving tea to B¨¤? Why?" questioned Raelle curiously.

    "It''s nothing," said Shui Koshing. "There is no need for such things either. Let''s go and have lunch. You just said you are hungry. So, let''s not waste time."

    "Uncle Shing, that''s not fair," said Xiang Wai. "Little sister, the new bride is supposed to serve tea to her inws on her first morning after. Didn''t you do your research?"

    "There is such a thing?" asked Raelle to Shui Xian who nodded his head. "Why didn''t you tell me earlier?"

    "Because there is no need for it," answered Shui Koshing in ce of his son. "From the moment you married Xian, I told you that you are like my own daughter. Why would we need such formalities between us? I thought we were closer than that, right?"

    Raelle nodded her head, "Indeed. We are closer than that." Shui Koshing was satisfied when he heard that answer from her but she wasn''t done yet. "However, a tradition is a tradition. When I managed to pull through so many meaningless ones, why can''t I go through this one? I quite like the idea of this."

    Xiang Wai''s lips twitched when she heard such a response from her sister and Hyson burst outughing, "That is like you."

    Xiang Wai gave him a look, "Does it make sense? Why does she like this idea?" Discover more stories at m,v l''e-NovelBin

    "Because Uncle Shing is the first father figure in Ellie''s life," replied Hyson which stunned everyone in the room. "The ce he has in her heart is different. Why won''t she like serving tea to her own father? If Uncle Shing takes her as his own daughter, do you think Ellie is perfunctory when she calls him B¨¤? Then you really know nothing about my Ellie."

    Mu Chenyan hummed as well, "Indeed, if you think our Elle is being perfunctory than you really don''t know our Elle."

    Raelle smiled at Shui Koshing who smiled back at her. He raised his hand to touch her head lovingly saying, "I just said it, what''s need of such formalities between father and daughter?"

    "What formality? This is just a daughter trying to do something for her father. Why? Am I not even allowed to do that?" She looked around but found no house help so she just called, "Where is the tea? Someone bring tea for me!"

    They didn''t have to wait long before the tea was brought in. Raelle didn''t have to prepare tea on her own, she only had to pour it into the cup. She did so and offered it to Shui Koshing with her own hand, "Have some, B¨¤!"

    Shui Koshing took the teacup from her hand, his smile didn''t drop or diminish even for a second. He took a sip and put the cup down saying, "At this point, I''m supposed to give a gift."

    "There is such a thing too?" Raelle widened her eyes and then said, "But I don''t need a gift."

    "No, this is non-refundable!" said Shui Xian as he took out a document from his side. "Tada!"

    "Really, B¨¤?" asked Shui Xian as he saw his father acting like this.

    Shui Koshing ignored his son and gave the document to Raelle, "This is the ind that my father gave to me. Now, I''m giving it to you."

    Raelle looked at the document that he put in her hands and then looked at Shui Xian who smiled softly and nodded his head to tell her to ept it.

    "This..."

    "Don''t overthink things," said Shui Xian. "I have one and so does Amiah. Although we both got it from our Mom."

    Only then did Raelle ept the documents and thank Shui Koshing, "There was really no need for this though?"

    "Why is there no need? What am I gonna do with this ind? I don''t even go there. You are young, you should find time to travel around more."

    "You are also still young and should travel around too," said Raelle.

    "I agree so that''s why I have decided to go on a cruise."

    "Shing Ge, are you going on a cruise?" questioned Mu Chenyan in surprise. "I have never taken a long cruise too. Zhao, let''s go too." Yue Yue raised her hand and Mu Chenyan nodded, "Yes, yes. How can I forget you? You areing as well!" But then she froze and looked at Grandfather Xiang.

    "I won''t go," said Grandfather Xiang. "If I am around, you won''t have any fun. You should go."

    "How can I leave you behind?"

    "I''m with grandpa," said Xiang Weimin. "It''s gonna take me a long while to get back to my post. So, I have time to take care of Grandpa. Aunt, you should go."

 Chapter 1421: Whats Wrong With Greed?

    "How did the direction of the wind change so suddenly?" inquired Xiang Wai to Hyson.

    "The wind has a specialty of changing directions whenever it wants to. Who can stop the wind? No one can!"

    Xiang Wai made a fist, wanting to punch this guy, and then sighed, "I also want to go on a cruise."

    "Then go."

    "I can''t. I have to join the Academy after getting back. I won''t have time for this once I start the work."

    "Poor you," said Hyson.

    "You are no better," shot back Xiang Wai which Hyson couldn''t refute.

    On the other hand, Raelle was actually happy to see that Shui Koshing was finally willing to go out of the house and find activities for himself. Traveling was good. A cruise was even better. And since so many people were going together, she''d have no worry.

    Enjoy exclusive chapters from m-v l''e|-NovelBin

    "Then have fun," said Raelle. "B¨¤, don''t forget to take lots of pictures and post them on your weChat Moments. I''d check it and give you a like."

    Shui Koshing chuckled softly at her words and agreed. "Okay. I''ll do that. But you also have to do the same. Take lots of pictures during your honeymoon and don''t forget to share them on Moments. I''ll also give you a like."

    "I''ll leave ament along with a like," added Hyson. "But you first have to make sure to post something. I''ll be reminding you every day."

    "You better not," said Raelle.

    "No, I have to do it."

    Raelle red at Hyson and he didn''t it seriously like others at all.

    Father Xiang looked at Song Xin''ai and then sighed to himself. He wouldn''t say that he wasn''t envious of the scene in front of him but he couldn''t do anything about it. He had even started to get used to the ufortable feeling in his heart whenever he saw Raelle being so close to Shui Koshing. Her father-inw was better than her own father.

    But he was the one to me for it so there was no need to dwell on it.

    "Are you ming me?" questioned Song Xin''ai.

    "What?"

    "That you can''t have such a close rtionship with your daughter. Do you me me for that?"

    Father Xiang shook his head at her, "There is no such thing. I have no reason to me you. The me lies with me. But ming you or me won''t change our situation. We both are people who have responsibilities that seemed to be bigger than just our family. Maybe we weren''t born to have this kind of love."

    "When did you be so sensible?"

    "I''m getting old now. I can''t keep avoiding something. At this point, I am just d that I managed to see my daughter before I took myst breath. Thest time I was in the hospital, my only regret was that I wasn''t able to see Raelle. But now, I seem to have no regrets. She doesn''tpletely reject my existence. She even invited me to her wedding. This is already like a dream to me. If I asked for any more, I''d be called greedy."

    Song Xin''ai didn''t expect to hear such heartfelt thoughts from him at this moment but all those thoughts did resonate with her own. Indeed, she also didn''t expect that one day, she''d be able to stand so close to her daughter. They weren''t likeplete strangers and Raelle even came to bring her wedding invitation personally.

    "You are right. You and I have no right to be greedy in this life. We should be content with what we managed to get," sighed Song Xin''ai with a content smile on her face. "Anyway, our daughter grew up better without us. She found the perfect life partner too. What more can we ask for as long as she is happy with her life?"

    "But what is wrong with greed?"

    Both Father Xiang and Song Xin''ai were stunned when they heard this voice and turned their heads. Facing Raelle, they didn''t react for a moment and were tongue-tied.

    Raelle looked at their expressions and asked again, "I asked, what is wrong with being greedy? When you are content with what you have, life can be rather uninspiring and uneventful. Then why not be a little greedy? The poor are greedy for riches and the rich are greedy for power. The sick is greedy for health and the healthy is greedy for a long life. Sometimes, greed isn''t all that bad either. It''s the greed to live that often brings people back to life from the brink of death."

    Father Xiang and Song Xin''ai looked at each other but didn''t understand what she was trying to get at by telling them this.

    "You both need to learn to be a little greedy. Not for anyone else but yourselves," added Raelle. "I''m very thankful for you both toe here and join my wedding. But it''s also true that I didn''t really need you here. Let''s face it, your children have grown up now. They have already found their directions in life. Weimin Ge has Justin and Wai has Zhai Yanjun. They''ll eventually be busy with their own lives. What are you both nning on doing? Aren''t you both retiring soon? What? Do you want to spend the rest of your lives working too for this country? When are you gonna focus on yourselves? Don''t you have a life?"

    Raelle had a look of realization, "Oh, I almost forgot. You really don''t have a life of your own. They say, your happy memories sh before your eyes when you die. What are you both gonna take from this world when you have never even lived for yourselves?" She sighed, "Not that it concerns me, but I''d suggest you to really start being a little greedy. For yourselves. You children might not need you at this age but they don''t want you gone either." She turned to leave but stopped, "Right, I came to remind you that the lunch is served. I wasn''t eavesdropping on purpose."

    Raelle strode toward the dining hall without looking back. She didn''t know why she said so much all of a sudden. She also didn''t know if she felt bad listening to the two of them just now. Anyway, it was truly her heartfelt wish that her parents would start living their lives for themselves even if it was sote now.

 Chapter 1422: Out Of Storm

    "Where did you go?" asked Shui Xian.

    "I just saw my parents whispering in the corner, I went to remind them that lunch is served but ended up eavesdropping on their conversation."

    "And?"

    "And then I couldn''t stop myself from saying a thing or two to them," replied Raelle.

    "What did you say to them?"

    "Let''s talk about itter," said Raelle as she pointed at everyone around. "It''s not like I won''t tell you anything. I''ll share everything with you."

    Shui Xian chuckled softly and nodded his head. He pulled the chair for Raelle and only sat down once she did. After that, he wiped the cutlery once again with a napkin before passing it to her.

    Raelle looked at Shui Xian''s movements intently. Even though he was just following the same routine as he did whenever they ate together, she still couldn''t look away. She felt a burning gaze settle on her and turned her head to meet Hyson''s smiling eyes.

    "Is something funny?" she asked.

    Hyson shook his head, "Not at all."

    "Then what are you smiling about?"

    "I was born with a smiling face unlike you."

    "Just talk about yourself. Why drag me in?" retorted Raelle.

    Hyson rolled his eyes at her and said, "Eat. Or are you waiting for Xian Ge to feed you too? Not like he won''t like doing that."

    Raelle softly hummed at her and started eating her meal. She was ravenous and ended up eating a little more than usual too. After doing so, she looked at the bulge on her stomach and her eyes widened. She looked around to see if anyone noticed before sitting even straighter than before. She even held her breath to suck in her tummy.

    Who knew this day woulde for her too?

    A lot of weird days were here for her. Recently, she heard someone say that marriage is like the rebirth of a woman. It''s like you are living a different life with the memories of the previous one. This is why a woman should always choose her husband wisely and carefully as it could change the direction of her new life.

    Raelle knew that she had made the right choice with Shui Xian because she was truly reborn after he came into her life. It wasn''t like she didn''t like this change but at some points, she''d miss her previous life too.

    "Wanna go for a walk?" suggested Shui Xian.

    Raelle wondered if he noticed her bulging belly and that''s why suggested going for a walk but his face gave nothing away. She stopped specting and dropped the thought altogether. It didn''t matter even if he saw it. He was her husband and he was allowed to see all of her.

    "Okay," she agreed but frowned when Hyson tagged along. "What do you want now? Do you understand that you are being annoying right now?"

    Hyson shrugged as he hugged her arm and said, "I have been annoying all my life but it''s just that you have be more vocal about it after your marriage. Bear with me for a few hours. We are both gonna be on our wayter and we never know when we''ll see each other again."

    "What do you mean by that? We''d obviously meet after my honeymoon."

    "We can''t be too sure about that."

    "What? Are you hoping that I die out there?"

    Hyson punched her shoulder making her hiss. She gaped at him in disbelief and Hyson didn''t even appreciate such a vivid expression on her face right now as he looked really mad. "Can''t you say something nice? One should never have such thoughts before a journey. It''s not considered good."

    Raelle rubbed her shoulder as she asked, "When did you be superstitious?"

    "When you care about someone, you are even willing to believe in superstitions. Don''t say that again. I might hate you on certain days but that doesn''t mean I want you gone." Hyson rubbed his forehead feeling frustrated and added, "And for your information, I wanted to tell you that I might be touring by the time youe back from your honeymoon. So, because of my schedule, I won''t be seeing you anytime soon. I didn''t mean anything else."

    "Oh," responded Raelle and looked at Shui Xian who also was looking at her with displeasure clearly visible in his eyes. Raelle could only mentally sigh that she had forgotten about who was beside her when she said those words. These two won''t let this matter go easily. "I was just joking."

    "Your jokes are never funny," reminded Hyson. "Why bother then? And I hate your jokes."

    "Yes, they aren''t funny at all," agreed Shui Xian with those words wholeheartedly.

    "Okay, I was wrong. I won''t do it again. Are we okay now?"

    Hyson and Shui Xian reluctantly dropped the topic after she promised not to do it again for fifteen minutes. Raelle felt like those were the most difficult and tiring fifteen minutes of her life.

    "What did you say to your parents?" asked Hyson as he poked through the yogurt drink in his hand and took a sip. "They had been looking at you strangely during the lunch."

    "Really? I didn''t notice," replied Raelle as she also took the yogurt drink that Shui Xian passed to her. "And what can I possibly say to them? There isn''t much to talk about between us actually. I just told them both to look forward. I asked them to live their own lives now."

    "And why would you do that?"

    "Maybe it''s because I feel happy inside so I want everyone around me to be happy too."

    "Really?" questioned Hyson in surprise. "Howe then you are always trying to make me unhappy?"

    "You are the exception of my life," said Raelle.

    "Can you both say something you actually mean?" Shui Xian gave them both a strange look. "There is no one in this family who cares about each other more than you two. But you both seemed to love saying the opposite of what you mean. It''s really exhausting to just even sit between the two of you." He sighed tiredly and then caressed Raelle''s head saying, "However, I have to say that my dear wife, you did well. Wanting your parents to be happy is a good thought. We are in the new chapter of our lives so we should forgive and forget the ones that were part of thest chapter."

    Hyson squinted his eyes at Shui Xian suspiciously, "Why do I feel like your words are directed at me?"

    "They are," answered Shui Xian. He had no problem epting that he said those words purposely. "You should also forgive and forget to move on." Stay tuned to mvl

    "Forgiveness is not possible though."

    "Then forget it at least," suggested Shui Xian. "Also, don''t let your anger or hate distance you from those who genuinely care about you. Either it''s Uncle Kuijun or Yanjun, they both love you. What Yanjun''s mother did is unforgivable but that really has nothing to do with Uncle Kuijun or Yanjun."

    Hyson agreed with everything he said. "I just can''t let it go."

    "You want revenge with your own hands."

    Hyson lowered his head, "I don''t know."

    "Isn''t it enough that someone has already made that woman''s life a living hell these days?" asked Raelle. "Do you think just anyone can bully people from our family? You have no idea what the Yue family has been going through these days. Last time, that woman insulted Yue Yue and then Yue Yue''s mother came to our house and even tried to p her. But she underestimated our family. Just because she gave birth to Yue Yue, does she have the right to touch our Yue Yue? How can I let that happen?"

    "Isn''t that the problem that you all are too capable?" retorted Hyson unhappily. "I can''t even show off a little or do something for my mother. You are making me feel useless by doing everything."

    "Isn''t it because I don''t want you to touch those things? You are our cleanest baby. We would like to keep you that way."

    Hyson barfed when he heard that disgusted Raelle with that action. He was quite satisfied seeing that look of disgust on her face.

    "Stop living for your mother, Hyson."

    "Then what else should I do?"

    "I told you to look for your own purpose."

    "Is it that easy to find purpose in your life? Do you have a purpose? Before you married Xian Ge, you were as confused with your own life as I am right now."

    "Do you enjoy your work?" asked Shui Xian.

    "Well..." Hyson thought about this question deeply and nodded his head. "I guess I am for now."

    "Then keep working. Once you get bored of it, we''ll find something else to do. You know which people should be lost in life?"

    "Which?"

    "The ones who don''t have someone to show them the way out," replied Shui Xian. "You, on the other hand, are one of the luckiest people around as you have not only people who are willing to be your lighthouse but you also have people who are willing to hold your hand and walk out of the storm with you."

 Chapter 1423: Take This Responsibility

    "You sure are good at talking," said Hyson as he shook his head tiredly. "I am so done with you two."

    "Then why don''t you get lost?" Raelle raised her brow at him. "Learn to read the room. Why do you always have to act like the third wheel between the two of us?"

    Hyson gave her a displeased look, "Even Xian Ge doesn''t mind. What the hell is wrong with you? I thought we were like a package."

    "Package of buy one and get one free?"

    "Exactly!"

    Raelle pinched his ear and Hyson screamed as he tried to p her hand but wasn''t able to do so.

    "Let go first and talk civilly."

    "Don''t want to."

    "You always used words to reason. Why are you getting violent now? This isn''t a good habit, Ellie."

    "You used to tell me that having bad habits is fun. So, I''m gonna pick some bad habits now too."

    Hyson groaned, "I smashed my own foot, eh?"

    "It''s not the first time. You must be quite used to it by now."

    Hyson rolled his eyes at her, "Let go. I''ll stop being the third wheel."

    Raelle thought about it and in a half-believing state, she let him go. Hyson rubbed his ear that felt like it was gonna pulled off by her. She really showed no mercy to even her own best friend. Cruel! Heartless!

    "It''s easy for you to make me stop being the third wheel. All you have to do is to give me a niece or nephew. I promise if I even looked at you again you can change my name."

    Both Raelle and Shui Xian stared at him when he said this and then looked at each other.

    "Are you saying that you are gonna forget your best friend once I have a child? That''s betrayal."

    Hyson huh-ed at her, "Says the person who betrayed me first for this guy beside her. I also have to return this favor, no?"

    "Why would I give my child to you? Are you gonna raise my child for me?"

    "You won''t have time for him anyway," retorted Hyson. "You''d be at the office busy with your work; your first love. Then you''d give the rest of the time to your second love that is Xian Ge. Now, where is the time for my dear niece or nephew? Of course, I''ll have to step in."

    "Why would I need you to step in?"

    "Because that child would be my first love unlike you who will put him in the third ce in your heart. So, am I not a better choice?"

    "If you are so eager to raise a child, go and give birth to one yourself!"

    Hyson gave her a bizarre look, "That''s not possible."

    "Why? Are you that ipetent?" Raelle put a hand over her mouth as she gasped in mock shock, "I now understand why you refuse to date. You are just incapable. Tsk. Poor you. Why didn''t you tell me this before? I won''tugh at your ws. I am not that mean. At least, I''d have be your support. In such a situation, one needs all the support that is avable."

    Hyson''s lips twitched while Shui Xian turned his back to them and covered his mouth with his hands. He didn''t want tough out loud right now but he really couldn''t hold back and burst outughing.

    Hyson red at Shui Xian who was trying hard to suppress hisughter right now but was finding it more than just difficult to do so. It was always fun whenever his wife started talking especially when she talked to Hyson.

    "Remember I gave you some advice once."

    "What?"

    "Buy a good filter for that mouth of yours," replied Hyson through gritted teeth. "You need it badly."

    Raelle flipped her hair saying, "And I told you even back then that once you invent such a filter, I''d buy it. But until then, just deal with it."

    Hyson raised his hands as if he wanted to strangle her but sadly couldn''t do so. He gave her onest look saying, "I am even more concerned of you raising a child. What if you turned the child into someone like you? One Raelle Xiang is already too difficult for people. I don''t think the earth would be able to bear the weight of two."

    Raelle gave him a look, "Are you leaving or not? I also don''t want my child to inherit your dramatics."

    "What is wrong with dramatics?" Said Hyson and walked away. He did not want to even look at her. She even said he was ipetent. Hyson looked down saying to himself, "I''m perfectly healthy. How am I incapable? She really doesn''t know how to talk."

    "That was harsh," said Shui Xian as he put his hands on Raelle''s shoulders.

    "He wanted to steal my child."

    "How is that even possible?" Shui Xian didn''t know what to say. He would only say that these kids really hadn''t grown up at all. They were finding faults with each other everywhere. But if it was someone else saying a word against Hyson, then Raelle would be the first one to strike.

    It could be seen from the fact that he learned after taking over the Musicpany that Hyson''s PR team was outsourced. And apparently, whoever maliciously spected about him online or spread rumors and gossip about him, that person would get awyer''s letter. He found it actually funny to see how seriously Raelle took Hyson''s matters.

    So many people online said that she was rude, mean, a witch, or whatnot but she paid no attention to it at all. But even if someone called Hyson ugly, she would sue them for it. She really had different standards.

    "What are you thinking about?" questioned Raelle when she noticed that Shui Xian seemed to be lost in thought right now.

    "It''s nothing much," replied Shui Xian. "I was just thinking that you have double standards when ites to Hyson."

    Raelle didn''t refute those words as she knew this truth very well. But so what if she had double standards? No matter how annoying he was, he was her only best friend.

    "Let''s go back inside," said Shui Xian. "We should see if our stuff is packed and the get ready to leave."

    "Oh," Raelle agreed and followed him in. Before she could go back up, someone brought her some tea to digest. Raelle knew who must have ordered it. Who else it be if not Mu Chenyan? She was one of the people who was very clear about her appetite so she must have noticed that she ate more than usual.

    Raelle didn''t refuse it and took the cup. Then she went upstairs back to her bedroom and sat down to drink her tea. On the side, Shui Xian was going through their suitcases to see if anything was missing. Raelle really didn''t understand why he had to do this stuff on his own. And why did he insist on carrying so much luggage?

    Couldn''t they just buy something if it was missing? Why go through this hassle? But since he was willing to do it all on his own, she wasn''t foolish enough to go and stop him either. Forget it, as long as he was happy.

    And surprisingly, he was really happy. Raelle didn''t know why but Shui Xian''s smile didn''t drop even for a moment as he hummed a tune and continued to pack their things. Raelle inparison looked like the real boss who was sipping tea and directing her employee to run around for errands. Discover hidden content at mvl

    "Do you want to take anything else?" asked Shui Xian.

    Raelle looked at him intently and inquired, "Can I take some books?"

    "Why?"

    "To pass the time?"

    "Are you saying that being with me is boring? So that''s why you''d need thepany of books instead?"

    Raelle gave him a look and sighed, "No, I didn''t say that. Fine. No books."

    Shui Xian came to her side and caressed her head, "Good job! It''s just a month. You can surely live without books. I will make sure of that."

    Raelle slumped down and hummed in response making Shui Xian chuckle at her reaction. He went back to packing the bags while Raelle looked reluctantly at the books that she just received two days ago and hadn''t gotten the chance to read them. Her eyes just couldn''t move away from those books on her desk.

    She had remind herself to just let it go. To reduce her reluctance, she looked at Shui Xian again. Yes, this view was better. If she took the books, he''d be sad. That''d only make her feel upset, right? So, why bother? Let''s just keep him happy as that was her responsibility as a wife.

    Anyway, she wanted to take this responsibility.

    "Okay, all done."

    "Did you pack everything?"

    "Well, I think so," replied Shui Xian. "I don''t think I missed anything but even if we did, we''ll just handle itter. Don''t worry about it. I''m here."

    Raelle smiled at him and nodded, "Okay. I''ll be in your care now, Mr. Shui."

    "I''ll do my best to serve you well, Mrs. Shui."

 Chapter 1424: Honeymoon

    Raelle and Shui Xian were all set to leave for their honeymoon. The whole family gathered to see them off. Seeing them all following behind them, Raelle looked back and said, "What are you all doing?"

    "Seeing you off," replied Xiang Wai.

    "Why would we need you to see us off? It''s not like we are going on our final journey..." Shui Xian covered Raelle''s mouth before she could finish that sentence. He smiled at everyone awkwardly and sighed to himself mentally. His wife really didn''t think before speaking. Was this something to say before going on a journey?

    "She means that you guys shouldn''t bother with this. Go back inside. We can leave now."

    Raelle looked at Shui Xian who smiled soothingly at her and pulled her outside. "Why stop me?"

    "Do you want to make everyone sad?" asked Shui Xian. "Wifey, you are not supposed to say such unlucky things when you are going out of home. It can make them worry unnecessarily. Also, you should know that troublees from the mouth. Aren''t you afraid of trouble the most?"

    Raelle pursed her lips and finally dropped it, "Fine. I might have said something wrong. I will try not to do it again."

    "Good girl!"

    Raelle gave him a look, "That sounds weird."

    Shui Xian smiled at her. They first took the chopper to the airport and then took the private jet. Even until now, Raelle had no idea where they were going.

    "Are you really not gonna tell me where we are going?" questioned Raelle.

    "Nope," replied Shui Xian. "You''ll know soon enough. Why keep asking about it?"

    "Why can''t I just ask? I feel like I''m being kidnapped again. No idea about my future."

    Shui Xian sighed, "Stop talking nonsense. Even if it''s a kidnapping, you are still the one who fell in love with the kidnapper."

    Raelle faked a gasp, "Hey, that sounds familiar. I think I heard my new secretary talking about a book she read where the kidnapped girl fell for her kidnapper. She said something about dark romance. I have no idea what that meant."

    Shui Xian coughed to hide his smile and suggested, "How about you try reading this book?"

    "I don''t fiction though," replied Raelle. "I only tried it once because of Cloe but it wasn''t that fun."

    "Cloe suggested you contemporary romance. I think you''d like dark romance better."

    "What makes you think that?"

    "Just intuition."

    "But reading fiction is a waste of time. Why bother? I won''t learn anything."

    Shui Xian shook his head in front of her eyes, "No darling. There is a lot to learn from fiction too. You can learn what to avoid. You can learn about red gs and you can also learn how to be color blind in the face of those red gs. Trust me, you''ll have fun learning about people."

    Raelle didn''t believe a word he said as she felt like his intentions weren''t pure. She could tell this much from the way his eyes flickered. But what to do? She was still willing to listen to him, "Fine. I''ll give it a try then. And if I read something I liked, I''ll practice it on you."

    Shui Xian rubbed his nose and nodded, "I am all here for it."

    Raelle squinted her eyes at him, "You are up to no good."

    "Can''t help it."

    Shui Xian hugged her in his arms and continued to look forward to their honeymoon getaway. They had been married for so long and had no proper fun together. This was a good time to unwind and enjoy.

    Raelle felt sleepy so she went to sleep and so did Shui Xian. The ne flew for hours beforending at its destination.Raelle stepped off the private jet, her heels clicking softly against the steps as she descended. The crisp, salty breeze caught her hair, and she lifted her head, eyes narrowing slightly against the bright sun. She had no idea where Shui Xian had brought her. He''d kept it aplete surprise.

    Before hery a secluded paradise: a private ind surrounded by the endless blue expanse of the ocean. Crystal-clear turquoise waterspped gently against the pristine white sand, the shoreline curving in an elegant arc, cradling the ind. Towering palm trees swayed in the breeze, their leaves rustling like a whisper of serenity. The lush greenery stretched out beyond the beach, the vibrant colors of exotic flowers peeking through, painting thendscape with hues of pink, yellow, and orange.

    "How is it?" Shui Xian hugged her waist as he questioned in a low voice. "Isn''t it breathtaking?"

    Raelle turned her head to look at him and agreed, "Indeed. It''s breathtaking."

    Shui Xian smiled, his eyes never leaving her face. "I wanted to give you something unforgettable," he said, his voice warm and low. "Somewhere where it''s just us. No distractions, no interruptions. Just you and me." His smile widened when he noticed the satisfaction in her eyes. He knew made the right choice, "I thought long and hard before deciding on this ce to be our first destination."

    "This is the ind that your mother gave you?"

    Shui Xian nodded his head, "Yeah. But I never really came here after she was gone. When she was around, she''d always bring me and Amiah here for a few days to have fun. That''s why I loved this ce so much. Knowing how close this ce was to my heart, Mom simply passed it on to me. I was thrilled when I got the ownership of this ind."

    "What''s the name of this ind?"

    Your journey continues at mvl

    "Isle of Seraphina."

    "Sounds fitting," replied Raelle as she turned to him, her eyes filled with wonder. She''d been to many beautiful ces before, but this... This was different. Really different. It felt intimate, like a secret world built just for the two of them. A perfect honeymoon getaway, far from the chaos of life, where only the sound of the ocean and the whispers of the wind would apany them.

    Actually, Raelle understood better why he picked this ce as their honeymoon destination. Not only because he had beautiful memories of this ce but also because of her. Raelle didn''t like crowded ces and Shui Xian knew it well. Why would he make her ufortable over their honeymoon? At least, they had to have a space that only belonged to them.

    "Only you and I are here," said Shui Xian. "Isn''t it a perfect ce for a honeymoon?"

    "It''s not that exaggerated," retorted Raelle. "What about the crew and the workers who live here to take care of the ind?"

    Shui Xian cleared his throat and gave her a reproachful look, "Darling, can''t you just let me be romantic for a while? Why hit me with the reality almost instantly?"

    "Living in reality is better," argued Raelle. "I can''t let you float in the clouds. What would I do if I can''t catch up to you up there?"

    "How is that possible?"

    "I''m a grounded person," reminded Raelle. "I like the security of the ground under my feet. So, I refuse to float in the clouds like you. Doesn''t that mean I won''t be able to catch up to you?"

    Shui Xian burst outughing and led the way for her saying, "You really have all the right reasons for all my wrong ideas."

    "That means weplement each other."

    "That''s true," agreed Shui Xian as he pinched her cheek. "I do look good with you around."

    Raelle''s heart swelled as she gazed at the ind again. The beauty of it all was the quiet, peaceful energy it radiated. It was all so perfect. But even more than the ce itself, it was the thought behind it. Shui Xian had done this for her, for them. It made her realize, yet again, just how much he loved her, how deeply he understood her desire for serenity and space. He understood that he didn''t have to do anything fancy to touch her heart, it was always the sincerity that got to her instead of grand gestures.

    "How else did you even be my husband?" she asked, her hand gently brushing his arm, her fingers tracing the familiar lines of his skin. "Isn''t it all because we look good together? What else do you have in store for me?

    Shui Xian chuckled softly. "Let''s just say I have a few surprises up my sleeve. And this," he gestured to the ind, "is only the beginning."

    She smiled, her gaze softening as she looked at him. "Then, I can''t wait to see what else you have in store."

    He pulled her close, his hand resting on the small of her back. "I promise," he whispered against her ear, "this will be the most unforgettable adventure of our lives."

    With that, they turned toward the ind, hand in hand, the start of their honeymoon in this secluded paradise unfolding before them. Shui Xian tightened his grasp on her hand in his own as he looked forward to this adventure with her.

 Chapter 1425: Super Glue

    Shui Xian led Raelle down a winding path framed by lush greenery, the soft rustle of palm fronds creating a natural melody in the background. As they walked, the vibrant flowers lining the trail released a subtle, sweet fragrance, adding to the enchantment of the moment. The path opened up to reveal their private residence on the ind; a stunning vi that seemed to blend effortlessly with its surroundings.

    The residence was a masterpiece of modern elegance and natural beauty, with wide open spaces and floor-to-ceiling windows that weed the stunning views of the ocean. The vi''s architecture was a perfect bnce of contemporary design and tropical charm, with soft earth-toned walls, a sloping roof, and touches of wooden ents that gave it a warm, inviting feel.

    Raelle seemed a little excited as she took in the sight of the expansive terrace that wrapped around the front of the vi, offering a panoramic view of the sparkling turquoise waters. The sea stretched out endlessly, its gentle wavespping against the shore, glistening under the sunlight like a carpet of diamonds. From this vantage point, the colors of the sunset were just beginning to paint the sky with shades of pink, orange, andvender, casting a warm glow over everything.

    "This is where we''ll be staying," Shui Xian said, his voice soft, yet filled with pride as he watched Raelle''s reaction. "Every morning, we''ll wake up to this view. Just you, me, and the ocean."

    Raelle turned to him, her eyes reflecting the colors of the setting sun. "It''s perfect."

    "It wasn''t perfect but with you here, it does seem a little too perfect," said Shui Xian cheekily making Raelle smile at him. "Didn''t you want to see the traces of my childhood? I think you can find traces here."

    Raelle looked towards the door of the vi and then looked back at Shui Xian, "You always keep my words in mind."

    "My mind and heart are only enough for you. How can they have the energy to focus on anything or anyone else? Why is it surprising that my mind is filled with your words? It seems quite natural to me though. If I won''t remember my wife''s words, whose words am I gonna remember?" He smiled, reaching out to brush a stray lock of hair from her face. "I just want to give you everything," he said, his thumb gently tracing her cheek. "And to make that possible, I''ll have to remember even the tiniest detail rted to you. I can''t be careless about this. Because I wish to surround you with beauty, to give you the peace and the love you deserve."

    Raelle opened her arms and Shui Xian rushed to hug her. "You are cheesy and too romantic at times too. But I still love you."

    "I love you more," he replied.

    "I won''t argue with you over this. Love isn''t apetition so why should we argue about it? Anyway, whoever is the winner won''t make the other one a loser. Your win is my win too."

    "Wifey, you are also very cheesy when you want to be."

    "It''s because of you."

    "Yes, yes. It''s all because of me. When did I deny that? I wanted us to be a cheesy couple and see now, we have be one."

    They stood there for a moment, wrapped in each other''s arms, the world around them fading into the background. The soothing sound of the waves seemed to echo the rhythm of their hearts, synchronized in this perfect moment. As they looked out over the water, the horizon stretched infinitely, just like the journey of their lives together.

    "Are we spending all the time here?" questioned Raelle.

    Shui Xian reluctantly pulled away from her and said, "No. We have to go inside. Let''s take a rest for a while and have some snacks for now if you are hungry. We''ll have a big feast at dinner time."

    "I just ate before getting on the ne. It hasn''t even been that long. How could I get hungry so soon? Let''s go inside and see where we are staying this week."

    "Okay," agreed Shui Xian as he led her inside the vi.

    The open-concept living space was expansive and airy, designed to let the ocean breeze flow seamlessly through the rooms. The walls were painted in soft, neutral tones, ented by natural textures and wooden elements that brought a touch of the outdoors inside.

    The living room featured plush, white sofas that faced a sleek stone firece, withrge windows framing the endless ocean view beyond. Overhead, an intricately designed wooden ceiling fan turned slowly, adding a gentle movement to the room. The floors were polished stone, cool to the touch, with colorful woven rugs that added warmth and a hint of tropical vibrancy.

    Looking the the stone firece, Raelle turned to give Shui Xian a meaningful nce. At first, he didn''t understand what she meant but when he followed her sight it all sank in making him chuckle. "Is it fate? I think it is. We had our first time in front of the firece."

    "I remember that very well," responded Raelle. If she didn''t remember it, why would she give him that meaningful look just now? She also thought it was quite a fate that the ce where they spent their first honeymoon had such a cozy firece space and for this honeymoon, they had another one. "Where is our bedroom?"

    "You don''t wanna look around?"

    "I''ll see it tomorrow. I wanna go and see the bedroom now."

    Shui Xian took her hand and went to their bedroom. As they moved into the master bedroom, Raelle''s gaze was drawn to therge canopy bed draped with sheer white fabric that fluttered gently with the breeze. The bed faced a set of sliding ss doors that opened directly to a private terrace, where a cozy seating area invited them to rx and take in the breathtaking ocean view. Soft linen sheets and plush pillows added to the room''s romantic, serene atmosphere.

    "You have made quite the preparation for this honeymoon,"mented Raelle as she sat down on the soft bed and felt her body sinking in. It was really like sitting on clouds.

    "I have been looking forward to it for so long, shouldn''t I put in more effort into making a perfect honeymoon?"

    "Actually, it didn''t matter much to me." Shui Xian looked at her with inquisitive eyes as she went on, "Why do you think I came to this honeymoon?"

    "Why?" he questioned.

    "Of course, because this is the time where you''d only belong to me. This is just between you and me. Since it''s that simple for me. Why would I expect anything extra? I''m okay with even..." She considered it for a while before remembering, "Right, remember that cabin in the woods where we spent the night when you were on a business trip and I followed you?"

    "I remember," answered Shui Xian.

    "I think I''d be even more than happy spending our honeymoon there."

    Shui Xian sat down with her on the bed and asked, "Why is my wife so easy to satisfy? Can''t you expect more from me?"

    "I don''t even expect much from life. Why would I have grand expectations from you? Oh, if there is one that''d be that I want you to never let go of my hand. I don''t like letting go."

    "So, should I stick our hands together with super glue?"

    Raelle shook her head at him and Shui Xian chuckled in response. He hugged her waist and put his chin on her shoulder as he kissed the side of her face saying, "Why are you so cute?"

    "You have a wrong impression of me. Change it as soon as possible. I''m cool and savvy. Not cute!"

    "Cute."

    Raelle gave him a look of disapproval and Shui Xian didn''t take it seriously at all as he continued to drop kisses on the side of her face to her ear and move to her neck. Raelle pped his face away lightly, "Stop making trouble. And why do you keep hugging me?" Read exclusive content at mvl

    "I am sticking to you. I don''t even need super glue to stick together for good."

    "Go away."

    "Wifey, you are going against your own words. Just now you said not to let you go but now, you are telling me to go away. Stick with one or I''ll get confused and then I''ll selectively follow only one."

    "You already do things selectively."

    Shui Xian agreed with those words as he fell back on the bed and since his arms were still tightly wrapped around Raelle''s waist, she was pulled along with him. He nuzzled the side of her neck feeling really happy inside.

    "Let''s stay like this for a while."

    "Why?"

    "Just because I want to stay like this with you. It feels peaceful like this. I can just lie down here with my arms around you without any hurry to get up to do something. It feels good this way."

 Chapter 1426: Evil-Hearted

    Although Xiang Wai wanted to stay longer in Country Ge, after a few days, she got bored and was all alone. She was someone who liked excitement but she couldn''t get excited about anything. Everyone had something to do and left for their own destinations. Finally, Xiang Wai also took the ne back home.

    Even aftering home, she was bored. Since Zhai Yanjun was on a mission, she couldn''t even contact him. Seeing how the days were only getting longer and longer for her, she decided to stop acting like azy rice bug.

    She changed into her uniform and proudly patted the badges pinned on her chest. Fixing her hair, she took out all her documents and drove her army jeep to the Military academy. Since she couldn''t find anything exciting, it was better to go and bully some youngsters... Cough! She meant to train the future soldiers of the nation!

    Yes, that was the real intention.

    She definitely had no evil idea running in her head.

    Even though she said that she had no evil idea, when she was facing the juniors in front of her, she couldn''t hide the wicked twinkle in her eyes either. Those young and energetic faces looked serious and upright.

    In this way, she started her journey as an instructor in the Military academy. However, she heard a lot of people saying that it was a shame for her to leave the Special forces. She wasn''t feeling any regret about this. She was someone who was only confused when it came to matters of the heart. Normally, her brain worked quite well and her goals were clear too.

    She never intended to stay as a Special Forces officer until her retirement. She chose that field because she found it interesting and exciting enough. Now, she found something else to do so she changed her direction and ran toward it. After a year or two even if she got bored here, she didn''t mind taking the early retirement and going back home.

    Anyway, the world was big enough and filled with a lot of things waiting for her to explore too. Why would she bind herself to only one ce?

    Xiang Wai had gotten used to the pace of the academy in the week and received another call from her cousin Song Daiyu on this day. Xiang Wai looked at the phone screen for a long time before taking the call, "What is it?"

    "Do you have time?" asked the girl from the other side.

    "Do we have to meet face-to-face?" questioned Xiang Wai. "Why are you being stubborn about it? You never had such a strong desire to meet me. I almost forgot I had a cousin like you."

    "You can forget me if you want to but you really have to meet me. I don''t wanna talk about this with Aunt Xin''ai. Please, if you have time thene to see me. And if you don''t have time, then make time for me. I only need half an hour."

    Xiang Wai thought about it once again and checked the time, "Where are you? Where should we meet?"

    Song Daiyu seemed to have breathed a sigh of relief before she told the name of the ce. Xiang Wai agreed and sorted out her work. Finally, she took her car keys and left.

    When she appeared at the bakery, Song Daiyu was already inside sitting by the window drinking hot coffee. Seeing Xiang Wai, Song Daiyu stood up and waved at her.

    As Xiang Wai sat down in front of her, Song Daiyu sat up straight like she was sitting in the presence of a teacher. She couldn''t help it either. She had always been scared of this cousin of hers. It was quite surprising that this fear hadn''t lessened or gone over these years. It had even increased with time.

    Especially when Song Daiyu looked at the crisp uniform on Xiang Wai''s tall frame that gave her an even more imposing air. Song Daiyu gulped down her saliva and put down her hands on herp. She realized that her hands were shaking and she couldn''t even hold the cup of coffee firmly.

    "Speak," said Xiang Wai sinctly.

    Song Daiyu licked her dry lips and breathed heavily. "What would you like to drink?"

    Xiang Wai narrowed her eyes at her, "Do you think I''m here to drink with you?"

    "But you can have a cup of coffee right?"

    Xiang Wai stood up and went to order a drink for herself. She soon came back and sat down with Song Daiyu again. "Okay, I''ve ordered. Now, what?"

    Song Daiyu smiled awkwardly and her eyes wandered around nervously. She didn''t know how to start the conversation. She had tried so hard to convince herself toe here to see Xiang Wai and now she was getting cold feet. She was really scared that Xiang Wai would get angry and might even hit her. Just the memory of how Xiang Wai once beat her brother was enough to make her shudder.

    "You know, I have no interest in admiring your fearful look,"mented Xiang Wai as she noticed how Song Daiyu wasn''t saying anything and looked so nervous. "What is it? Why did you exactly call me here?"

    Song Daiyu took another sip of the hot coffee and said, "I heard about your sister''s wedding. Congrattions! How was the wedding? I have never even met her. I wanted to buy a gift for her wedding but considering how she might not like the fact that I''m from the Song family, I dropped the idea."

    "Are you also trying to cozy up to Raelle through me?"

    Song Daiyu shook her head and even waved both her hands. "No. No way. How can I do such a thing? I''d never do it. Your sister is Raelle Xiang. We belong to different worlds. I wouldn''t wanna get close to her."

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    "If it''s not about that, then what is it?" questioned Xiang Wai. "Don''t waste my time or I''m gonna leave."

    Song Daiyu pursed her lips and said, "Don''t leave just yet. I do have something serious to tell you."

    "Then be upfront about it. Don''t dawdle as it is annoying me now. Do you understand what I am saying?"

    Song Daiyu nodded her head and finally took a deep breath. "Okay. Don''t lose your temper after hearing this."

    "I''ll try."

    Song Daiyu gulped visibly, "I heard something and since I heard it, I haven''t been able to have a good night''s sleep. I thought about it long and hard before deciding to contact you. I felt like I needed to tell you this or I won''t be able to live with my conscience."

    Xiang Wai also became serious when she saw how serious Song Daiyu looked right now. This was unusual no matter how she looked at this situation. So, she was really curious now about what was bothering Song Daiyu and what could possibly put her in this situation.

    "You might not know but I have been having a hard time with my mothertely because of my boyfriend. That day too I argued with her and went to the garden to escape her nagging. I was hiding behind the rockery like I always did when I was a kid. That''s where I heard Grandma and Grandpa talking."

    "About what?"

    "It was the day when little aunt went to look for cousin Raelle at herpany. When she came back empty handed and was also humiliated out there, everyone was quite mad in the family especially our grandparents. I heard Grandma say at that time, ''I''m so regretful that this evil seed managed to survive even after that kidnapping. That organization should have just killed her if they couldn''t take her away. If I knew they were so useless, I''d have strangled this girl with my own hands instead of giving her to those useless people who imed that no one could escape from their hold.''"

    Xiang Wai''s eyes widened as she stared straight at Song Daiyu with such intensity that she made the girl stutter but she still managed to share what she heard. Song Daiyu observed her expression for a long while before adding, "I thought about it a lot before piecing together the information that they were talking about cousin Raelle at that time. I heard that your family broke because cousin Raelle was kidnapped right after birth. But how she got kidnapped from such high security military hospital had always been a mystery. I believe this would solve the mystery. I had been in shock since then and hadn''t been sleeping well too. I always knew that grandparents were partial but I didn''t know that they could be so evil hearted too. It chilled my heart to core."

    Xiang Wai grapsed the edge of the wooden table and looked like she was gonna break it. But she was holding back her strength, she couldn''t lose her temper here. Not right now. It won''t be good if she did it here.

 Chapter 1427: Fury

    Xiang Wai sat there frozen, her mind reeling as Song Daiyu''s words settled like venom in her veins. It felt as though the floor had shifted beneath her, and for a brief moment, she couldn''t breathe, her lungs refusing to cooperate. Her grandmother did what? Aren''t grandmother usually very protective of their grandchildren? She was not unfamiliar with her grandma''s entric and mean personality. It could be said that she had no good expectation of her too.

    But even then, right now, her brain struggled to process the weight of what she had just heard. The air around them felt charged with a suffocating tension, her breathing growing shallow as rage started to simmer beneath her skin.

    The olddy who was always partial betrayed them. Xiang Wai didn''t expect love from her or that she''d protect them, but betrayal like this? How could this old witch actually betray an innocent baby, by helping the very people who had stolen her away? This was a betrayal far beyond what she could have ever imagined.

    A cold fury began to rise within her, surging like a tidal wave threatening to consume everything in its path. Her vision blurred at the edges as the intensity of her anger grew, red-hot and unrelenting.

    Song Daiyu took in all of her reactions and tried to minimize her own presence. She wanted to actually turn into a small person so she could slip away from here. But the hardest part was already done, she couldn''t be a coward now and run away.

    "Theyˇ­" Her voice came out low, barely more than a whisper, yet it was filled with so much venom that Song Daiyu involuntarily leaned back in her chair almost toppling it back. "They helped the people who kidnapped Raelle?"

    Song Daiyu nodded, her face pale, eyes wide with the gravity of what she''d just revealed. "I overheard them talking. Our grandmaˇ­ she said it with no regret. I don''t why she did it. For money, maybe. IˇŞI''m not sure. But I swear it''s true."

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    Xiang Wai''s heart pounded in her chest, each beat reverberating through her like a war drum. Her body trembled with the sheer force of her rage, a storm brewing inside her that she couldn''t contain. The fact that Song Daiyu''s voice was shaking didn''t matter. Nothing mattered anymore except for the overwhelming need for justice... For vengeance. Her anger was no longer just a flicker but a roaring inferno that consumed her entire being.

    "Those hypocrites," she spat out, her voice ice-cold, venomcing every word. "They dared to decide for Raelle''s life? They dared to think they knew what was best when they were the ones destroying everything?!" Her voice cracked slightly, not with weakness but with the sheer force of her fury.

    Xiang Wai''s eyes were zing now, colder than the harshest winter night, yet burning with the fire of a thousand storms. She could barely contain the urge to destroy something, to unleash this fury on the people who had dared to hurt her family. She had always disliked her grandparents for their favoritism, and their cold, calcted treatment toward her, and now this revtion was the final straw that shattered any semnce of restraint.

    A part of her wanted to storm into their house, confront them, tear down the lies they had lived under all these years. Another part of her wanted something darker, something that involved more than just words... something far more violent.

    "They took her away," she said, her voice trembling, but not with fearˇŞthis was the tremor of restrained violence. "They took my sister, my Raelle, and they think they can get away with it? Like we''re still the same weak children who''d bow to their every word? I had regretted it so many times that I couldn''t grow up with my sister. I even despised myself for thinking that the source of the destruction of my family was Raelle''s birth. But now... Now, I''m told that the real culprit was someone else. I could have grown up with my sister. I wouldn''t have missed so many years of her life and felt so alienated and distant."

    Song Daiyu flinched at the lethal edge in Xiang Wai''s tone. It was like a promise of vengeance, a storm brewing behind her eyes that would not be satisfied until it had washed everything in its path clean of its sins. Song Daiyu was really scared of seeing this version of Xiang Wai. She already knew how bad her anger but this was far beyond the anger she had seen ever before. This was fury that was ready to raze everything to the ground.

    "Waiˇ­ I know you''re angry, but you can''t..."

    "Can''t what?" Xiang Wai snapped, her voice cutting like a de through the air. "Can''t make them suffer the way Raelle suffered? Can''t make them pay for every second of pain they caused? After telling me this, you are expecting me to be merciful?"

    Song Daiyu shook her head like a rattle, "No way. I have no such thoughts. What I want to say is that you can''t take this anger out on me. If I wanted you to be merciful, I''d choose to not even tell you anything. Anyway, it has been over two decades and your sister is also doing well in life. There was no point in digging the old graves but I couldn''t live with myself. And I couldn''t live with the fact that my Aunt Xin''ai did so much for grandma and yet, she was the one who had to lose everything because of grandma''s plotting. You know how much I love Aunt Xin''ai, you think I don''t feel for her? I don''t care what you do to grandma, I have no interest in knowing because whatever you do won''t change things. Aunt Xin''ai would still be the biggest victim in this whole thing. She is the one who lost the most."

    Xiang Wai froze for a second and her emotions slowly fell down a degree. She had been thinking about herself and Raelle but she really didn''t think about her mother just now. Indeed, the biggest victim was her own mother who knew nothing about what that old wench did and she even kept getting manipted by her, all for the sake of a single word of praise orpliment which she never got.

    She didn''t know if she should say that her mother was honest or simply a fool. Thetter seemed rather appropriate. In fact, it was better to say that her mother was a knowing fool. She purposely became a fool because by doing so, she could be at peace with her family.

    Song Xin''ai couldn''t earn the respect of the Song family or get the love of the family that she craved or needed. And just when she was finally close to making her own perfect family, her Song family messed that up for her and took away all her happiness.

    "I''ll make them regret ever thinking they could y gods with our lives," Xiang Wai vowed, her eyes narrowing, her rage no longer hidden but an open, violent force. "If they thought Raelle was a threat, they have no idea what I''m capable of now."

    Song Daiyu watched her, unsure whether to fear for the grandparents or feel the thrill of Xiang Wai''s righteous anger. Xiang Wai was like a tempest, uncontainable, and right now, that storm had found a purpose.

    She hesitated before asking, "Are you gonna tell Auntie about this?"

    Xiang Wai pursed her lips and didn''t answer as she hadn''t decided yet. She didn''t know if she should tell her mother about this and break all her wishful fantasies or... Well, it seemed it was impossible to keep those fantasies because after she made a move, the Song family would be trembling and begging for mercy. The noise could be loud enough for her mother to hear, right?

    She looked at Song Daiyu and said, "What are you gonna do now?"

    "Huh?"

    "You are not expecting that I''ll let the whole Song family go after this, are you?"

    Song Daiyu shook her head, "No, I am pretty sure you have so such intention."

    "Exactly. I don''t. So, if you don''t want to be affected, leave. Either move to another city or move abroad. Wherever you can go, just leave and stay away from the mess of the Song family. I can give you my word that the Xiang family won''t implicate you in anything."

    Song Daiyu pursed her lips and looked hesitant.

    "What?" inquired Xiang Wai. "Do you want me to let your parents go too?"

    Song Daiyu shook her head, "I know you won''t do anything illegal. Since you are gonna usew, then that means if my parents have lived a clean life, they will obviously be able to recover from the storm and if their hands aren''t clean then... Sigh. I can''t do anything about it. They chose their own paths but I can''t let them choose my path for me. So, I''ll take my chances."

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 Chapter 1428: Sweet Lie

    Xiang Wai walked aimlessly into the night, not knowing where to go. Her mind was screaming but she looked rather calm on the surface. But the storm within her couldn''t be held back at all. Before she could decide, she found herself at her mother''s door. She looked at the closed door with a thoughtful look and finally lifted her hand to ring the bell.

    She was taking her chances. Song Xin''ai spent only a few days in a month at her house and the rest were spent in the research center. Xiang Wai didn''t know what she was hoping for right now. Did she want to see her mother right now or she was hoping that her mother wouldn''t be at home?

    However, before she could figure out anything, the door in front of her opened.

    "Wai?" Song Xin''ai frowned in confusion. She looked at the time and then looked back at her daughter, not understanding the current situation in front of her eyes. "What are you doing here?"

    Xiang Wai broke out of her thoughts and asked in return, "Can''t Ie to see my mother? Do I need to make an appointment?"

    Although her response was very much in line with her personality, how could Song Xin''ai not understand that there was something different about her daughter? She wondered what happened to prompt Xiang Wai intoing to her at this time of the night.

    "Come inside first," said Song Xin''ai as she held Xiang Wai''s wrist and pulled her inside. She took out a new pair of slippers for her and then entered the living room. Heading toward the kitchen, she instructed, "Sit here first."

    Xiang Wai looked around at her mother''s ce which was just as meticulously cleaned as always. There was barely anything to see in this ce actually. There was nothing fun around Song Xin''ai. The most excessive things in this house would be books and research papers. Lots and lots of research papers.

    The coffee table had lots of research papers scattered around and even the dining table had them. It made one wonder if it was a ce to eat or to read papers. There wasn''t a TV in this house. Only basic furniture was avable and nothing was kept just for the sake of appearance. In a way, this was a very depressing ce. Maybe that''s why she never likeding to her mother''s ce.

    A long-buried thought came to Xiang Wai, her mother''s life was way too boring.

    Before Xiang Wai could think further, Song Xin''ai came out of the kitchen with a ss of juice and a bowl of instant noodles. She put the juice in front of Xiang Wai while she sat down to eat the noodles.

    Xiang Wai didn''t take the juice, her eyes were on the bowl of instant noodles that stung her eyes a little. She looked up at her mother and asked, "This is your dinner orte-night snack?"

    Song Xin''ai paused and looked into her eyes, "Maybe both."

    "It''s almost midnight," reminded Xiang Wai. "Let''s not talk about how it''s way toote for dinner but instant noodles? Really? Can''t you eat anything else? Can you digest this sote at night?"

    Song Xin''ai offered her a small smile, "I''ll have to consume a lot of mental power, I''m sure it''ll be digested easily."

    "Mom!"

    "Woah! You scared me! What are you shouting for?"

    Xiang Wai looked at her with a helpless and speechless look in her eyes. "What are you doing with your life? What exactly is your goal?"

    "Huh?" Song Xin''ai was dumbfounded by these questions that came out of nowhere and made no sense to her for a while either. She didn''t understand Xiang Wai''s purpose. "What do you mean by what am I doing with my life?"

    "You skip your meals, don''t get enough sleep, don''t have time for yourself, don''t like going out, and you practically have no life. What''s the point of all your achievements? What is this research gonna do for you? You have so much money but what''s the point of it when in the middle of the night, you''re only gonna eat instant noodles? The ancients said a man does struggle for food just like birds do. What about you? What are you struggling for when you''re surviving on air?"

    Song Xin''ai was momentarily unable to react and when she did, she avoided Xiang Wai''s eyes and continued to eat her noodles. "My life is not as bad as you say, Wai. It''s pretty good. I''m satisfied with my life."

    "Are you now?"

    Song Xin''ai nodded her head, "You see, even Raelle is willing to talk to me asionally now. What else can I not be satisfied with?"

    "Then I must say that my mother is very easily satisfied. Are your expectations of life so low? Or you don''t have any expectations to begin with?"

    Song Xin''ai noticed the sheen of moisture in Xiang Wai''s eyes and was startled. "Baby, what made you so excited? What got on your nerves? Did someone bully you? Do you want mom to stand up for you?"

    "I''m past the age where I need you to support me," huffed Xiang Wai. "You! You can''t even stand up for yourself. If you did, you wouldn''t be living such a life right now."

    "Are you so disappointed in mom?" asked Song Xin''ai. "But then again, I haven''t been a good mother to you so it''s not surprising really. However, you can at least tell me if something is bothering you. Even if I can''t help, I''d like to know what''s been going on in your life."

    Xiang Wai held her hand and looked into her eyes saying, "Why don''t you first look at your own life? Or have you been living in deception for so long that you can''t see the reality anymore? Or maybe you wanted to always live in this sweet lie?"

    Song Xin''ai blinked her eyes as she stared into Xiang Wai''s. She noticed the red veins popping up and it gave her a bad feeling.

 Chapter 1429: Worthless Life

    "Wai, what made youe to me tonight?" asked Song Xin''ai. "You are not the kind of person who would look for her mother whenever things go wrong. So, what made youe to my door? You clearly didn''t know that I''d be home tonight. That means you were practically just taking your chances. I am unable to understand your behavior right now."

    Xiang Wai bit her lips and looked into her mother''s clear eyes. Everyone said Raelle resembled Song Xin''ai the most and currently, Xiang Wai had a different opinion. Maybe there was a simrity between Raelle and Song Xin''ai but the differences between them were too obvious as well.

    Raelle''s eyes still carried the light of the world but Song Xin''ai''s eyes had lost the glimmer. It had been worn down by the life she lived.

    "Mom," she called out in a small voice.

    "Hm?"

    "If... I mean, if Raelle hadn''t been kidnapped back then, do you think things would have been different for our family?"

    Song Xin''ai froze when she heard this question and forgot to react too. "Is there a point in thinking about this hypothetical situation?"

    "Don''t avoid the question," Xiang Wai didn''t give up and didn''t let her avoid it too. She wanted to press for an answer right now and she did. "Just give me a straight and honest answer. Would things be different?"

    Song Xin''ai really couldn''t avoid this question now so she decided to face it. She thought about it for a minute and then answered honestly, "Maybe."

    "Maybe?"

    "No. I''m certain things would be different," added Song Xin''ai. "Your dad never wanted to divorce and kept dragging things before Raelle was born. It was only after Raelle was kidnapped that he let go. So, if she hadn''t been kidnapped, your dad won''t let go. If he won''t let go, I''d eventually lose my resolve to leave."

    "So, if Raelle hadn''t been kidnapped back then, Grandma wouldn''t have to die. You wouldn''t have gotten divorced so easily. Our family wouldn''t have to be separated. We wouldn''t have to miss so many years. Things would have been different."

    Song Xin''ai took a deep breath, "But the reality is, all of that happened. We couldn''t avoid it."

    "Do you wanna know why we couldn''t avoid all of that?" asked Xiang Wai.

    "Why?"

    "Because your mother chose to betray you," answered Xiang Wai. "All your sufferingse from your mother who did not want to lose her control over you. Mom, you got yed by your own mother. A person like you with high intelligence got deceived in the name of familial love!"

    Song Xin''ai clenched her fists tightly and stared into Xiang Wai''s eyes, "Baby, what do you mean by this?"

    "What do I mean? What I mean is that it was your mother who did everything," answered Xiang Wai and exined the details of her conversation with Song Daiyu earlier in the evening. The more she listened, the more unbelievable it seemed to Song Xin''ai but she knew her daughter well. Xiang Wai wouldn''t lie to her about such a thing. So, it could only mean that everything she was saying was the truth.

    Song Xin''ai had been repeatedly disappointed in her family over the years. For as long as she could remember, she had always felt like an outsider in that family. But no matter how she was let down, she could never imagine that it was her own mother who made her lose everything. All because she resisted her arrangements for once, she wanted to destroy herpletely.

    How funny was that?

    All this while, she was just a joke to the Song family and nothing more. The people whom she considered family had never considered her to be a part of the family. They didn''t even have basic respect for her as a human, why did she have wishful thinking all this time?

    Song Xin''ai held her head in her hands and closed her eyes in pain. Xiang Wai noticed her paleplexion along with her trembling body. She put her hands on Song Xin''ai''s shoulder asking, "Mom, are you okay?"

    Song Xin''ai couldn''t seem to hear her voice as her head was buzzing at the moment. Xiang Wai ran to get her some water and helped her drink it. Then she took a few tissues to wipe the sweat on Song Xin''ai''s face with a look of me in her eyes. She didn''t think before speaking and now this happened. She shouldn''t have been so hasty in speaking.

    "Mom!" Xiang Wai called out again. "Mom!"

    Song Xin''ai ced her hand on Xiang Wai''s and gave her a slight squeeze. "I''m okay. Don''t worry."

    "You don''t look okay to me though," grumbled Xiang Wai. She couldn''t hold back the worry in her heart right now. "How about I take you to the hospital?"

    "There is no need," Song Xin''ai leaned back in the chair as if she was drained of all her energy. Xiang Wai didn''t know why but she felt like her mother looked bruised and battered right now. And these bruises were not on her body but on her heart and soul.

    Seeing her mother like this, Xiang Wai felt even worse. She recalled what Song Daiyu said to her earlier. She said the one who got the most hurt in all this matter was Song Xin''ai. Now that she thought about it, wasn''t that the case? Who did her mother even have now with her? She was all alone.

    If nothing else, at least her father had a few good friends but what about her mother? Song Xin''ai didn''t even have a single friend. Xiang Wai again felt like her mother lived a worthless life. What exactly was the meaning of such a life? It seemed too empty and lonely. Especially to someone like her who had always been a fan of excitement and crowds in life. She couldn''t imagine such a silent and depressing life.

 Chapter 1430: Just A Failure

    "If you wanna cry, I can lend you my shoulder," said Xiang Wai.

    Song Xin''ai rubbed her temples with her eyes closed and her lips tilted up slightly, "Is crying gonna help?"

    "Who knows? It might help."

    Song Xin''ai shook her head, "No, it''s not gonna help." She opened her eyes and looked at Xiang Wai. She took her hands into her own and said, "Thank you foring here to tell me first. And I''m sorry."

    "What are you sorry for?"

    "Maybe for being such a mother who had been blind all her life," answered Song Xin''ai in a self-deprecating tone. "I never had a good mother so I didn''t know how to be a good mother to you either. Maybe I should have tried harder to learn but I didn''t. I''m sorry that Mom''s family was such a disappointment that you had to be separated from your dad and siblings for years. It was never my intention to hurt you, but I have hurt you enough."

    Xiang Wai''s tears fell down, no matter how hard she tried to hold them back. She just couldn''t stop these tears from falling. It was like a faucet had opened and there was no way to stop it now.

    "You don''t have to apologize to me," said Xiang Wai. "I grew up well. I had my moments in life. Yes, I had some bitter ones too but I eventually got over them too. All in all, I have lived a happy life. Even if I thought you were not good to me, I always knew I could go and look for my dad or my brother to stand up for me. Anyway, I always knew that someone was there for me. But you..." Xiang Wai had aplicated look in her eyes as she looked at Song Xin''ai who didn''t shed a single tear at that moment. "You had real tough in life. You had no one to stand by your side. And just when you thought you''d have a life partner, your mother destroyed that for you again. Don''t you feel sorry for yourself?"

    "Feeling sorry for myself won''t change anything," said Song Xin''ai. "I have been standing alone for so long that I have gotten used to it. When I first got together with your dad, I was very scared. I was insecure. Not because I doubted his feelings for me but because I feared that if I learned to lean on him, what if I forgot how to stand on my own again? I often sabotaged my own happiness. You don''t have to feel sorry for me." She touched Xiang Wai''s head lovingly, "I want you to go back home now and get a good rest. Don''t think about this matter anymore."

    "But..."

    "Leave it to me," Song Xin''ai interrupted her words. "This has nothing to do with you. It''s my matter, let me handle it on my own. I promise you, I won''t let you down this time."

    "If you did anything to the Song family, people are gonna talk and point fingers at you for being ungrateful and unfilial."

    "I have never feared any of that. Besides, I live in the research center most of the time. People don''t have the habit or time to gossip. I''ll be fine. Don''t worry about me."

    Xiang Wai didn''t know if she should listen to her or not but seeing the firm look on Song Xin''ai''s face, she had no way of going against it either.

    "Then let me know if you need any help."

    "I am your mother," reminded Song Xin''ai. "But still, thanks for the offer. It means a lot to me. Take care of yourself. Also... Don''t tell anyone else about this for now."

    "I wasn''t really nning on doing that," answered Xiang Wai. She got up to leave and looked at the half-eaten instant noodle bowl. She looked at her mother and said, "How about I make you something else to eat?"

    Song Xin''ai shook her head, "I''m not hungry anymore. Go. It''s already thiste. I''d have loved to ask you to stay the night but I don''t have a guest room. Would you like to sleep on my bed?"

    "No," replied Xiang Wai, and with a long look at Song Xin''ai, she finally left. But even when she left, she was still thinking how her mother was feeling right now. She knew that if one day she knew that her mother betrayed her, she''d be in a rage that would make her want to burn the world but Song Xin''ai looked way too calm.

    No wonder everyone said that she was the most emotional and sentimental person in the Xiang family. She really got excited easily.

    Once Xiang Wai left, Song Xin''ai sat in the same ce in a daze for a long time. Maybe she sat there for an hour or two before she slowly let out a turbid breath. Getting up, she walked into her bedroom and opened a drawer to take out an old picture with rough edges. She looked at the kind-looking old woman holding a small girl in her hands and said, "Grandma, let''s break the promise between us. I don''t wanna protect the Song family anymore. I let it go when I was bullied because she is my mother and she gave me birth so I could take anything. But she dared to extend her hands to my daughter. I can never forgive this."

    Song Xin''ai opened her phone and looked at the wallpaper which was the photo of her three children. She got this picture from Raelle''s wedding. All three of her kids were smiling happily and every time she looked at this picture, it could make her forget anything else. But at this moment, her eyes teared up and tears ran down her face without a break making her vision blurry.

    "I''m more than just a failure as a mother," she whispered in a choked voice.

 Chapter 1431: This is Vengeance

    Standing on the deck of the cruise ship, Mu Chenyan held a ss of wine and enjoyed the cool breeze hitting her face. She had her eyes closed and her lips tilted up in a smile. She looked rxed at this moment as the sunshine hit her face, giving her an ethereal glow.

    She felt the presence of another personing behind her and asked, "Where did you go?"

    Xia Zhao smiled to himself and stepped over to hug her from behind, "I was just having a phone call with someone."

    "What happened? Is everything okay?"

    "Yeah," he answered.

    Mu Chenyan felt something from his tone and opened her eyes. She tilted her head to look at his face. She pinched his chin and asked, "Speak! What is troubling you?"

    "Nothing is troubling me," he answered. "But I am indeed wondering whether I should tell you about this or not."

    "Why? It concerns me?"

    "It does and at the same time, it doesn''t," was his vague answer which made her frown at him.

    "Juste clean. What is going on?"

    Xia Zhao took a moment before speaking, "The old man of the Song family is dead."

    Mu Chenyan''s eyes widened in surprise, "What? What happened to him? Wasn''t he hale and hearty?"

    "He had a sudden stroke and was unable to get back up," answered Xia Zhao with a careless and heartless look.

    "Why did he have a stroke all of a sudden? Did he learn that his wife had been cuckolding me all this while?"

    "How do you know that?"

    Mu Chenyan''s eyes popped open in shock, "What? Is it true? I was just joking. How did it be true? What is this absurdity? You are not pulling my leg, are you?"

    "No, I am telling you the truth," answered Xia Zhao. "Apparently, the old Mrs. Song had given her husband a lot of green hats over the years. She only calmed down at this age."

    "Start from the start," said Mu Chenyan. "I need to know everything."

    Xia Zhao looked at her eager look and smiled to himself. He didn''t think she''d be so interested in gossip about the Song family. "There are shocking things happening in the Song family right now. Each one can be written into a book. Let''s start from the fact that apart from Song Xin''ai, all her siblings have nothing to do with the Song family at all."

    Mu Chenyan coughed hard as she choked up on the wine she was sipping on. She felt like she couldn''t swallow this wine anymore. She put the wine ss on the table and held Xia Zhao''s hand, "Are you speaking the truth?"

    "It''s not even a secret anymore. The word has spread all over the news. How could it not be true?"

    "Damn!" Mu Chenyan didn''t think she could use any other word to describe her feelings right now. Who would have thought this? "That old man had been abusing his own daughter along with his wife all these years, not knowing that the people he supported had nothing to do with him. Serves him right for being blind!"

    Xia Zhao nodded his head, "I also think it serves him right. There is more by the way."

    "Hm? What else?"

    "The old Mrs. Song had been used of human trafficking and being involved with a dangerous syndicate, she had been arrested. Even at this age, she''d have to serve in prison."

    Mu Chenyan took another moment to digest this news.

    "The eldest son of the Song family had been used of stealing the research results of his students and iming them as his own. And he had also been involved with a few female students of his. And the second son is currently being investigated for tax evasion. The second daughter of the Song family has been detained for using her status to bully women. And..."

    "Slow down," said Mu Chenyan as she was having difficulty keeping up with this expos¨¦. "What is going on exactly? Why does it seem like someone is targeting the Song family? Or more like, someone wants all of them to go to hell?"

    "It seems like that''s the purpose," answered Xia Zhao.

    "But who did it?" questioned Mu Chenyan. "Do you know?" she narrowed her eyes at Xia Zhao suspiciously. She didn''t think he wouldn''t know.

    "It''s Song Xin''ai."

    "What? Who?" Mu Chenyan felt like she was hearing things. Or else, why would she hear the name of Song Xin''ai at this time? Didn''t she know what kind of a person her ex-sister-inw was? How could she y this hard? "You must have been mistaken."

    "There is no mistake. Especially since Dr. Song isn''t even trying to hide the fact that she is the one after the life of the Song family. She has practically announced to the whole world that the Song family''s mess has nothing to do with her so no one has to look at her face and try to suppress the matters of the Song family. She is clearly out for blood and she isn''t holding back either. Currently, 90% of the Song family members are either being investigated or have lost money and are about to be thrown on the streets. This is vengeance."

    "But why?" asked Mu Chenyan. "Why would she do this? Only because she hated her mother for loving her siblings but not her even though she was the only descendant of the Song family by blood?"

    "I don''t think it''s that simple," answered Xia Zhao. "The kind of evidence she has seems like something that she had been collecting for years. It seems she knew for a long time that her siblings had nothing to do with her."

    "Then why go crazy at this time?"

    "Go back and ask her," replied Xia Zhao.

    "You think she''ll tell me?"

    "You won''t know unless you ask," answered Xia Zhao. "And if nothing else, you can go and show your support."

    "Right. You ask someone to suppress her involvement. Don''t let the public opinion get out of hand. There is no shortage of pedantic people in the world. And even if she is a national treasure level researcher, she''d still be poked for doing such a thing. I don''t want her to get swept up in the storm."

    "Rx. I already made sure of it. No one can drag her or drag Xiang family into this mess of the Song family."

    Mu Chenyan hugged his waist and gave him a smile, "Indeed. You are still dependable. I do have a good eye."

 Chapter 1432: Two Of Us

    Unbeknownst to the storm in the country, Raelle and Shui Xian were in their own paradise. Barefoot, walking side by side on the sand with the sound of the waves behind them and the orange hues of the sun on the distant horizon.

    "I didn''t think we''de back here," said Shui Xian.

    "This is where we began our honeymoon," started Raelle. "I felt like it''s only right to spend ourst night back on this ind. Why? You don''t want that?"

    "How is that possible?" Shui Xian held her hand even more tightly as he added, "The ce never mattered to me. The person by my side has always been the most important. But hearing what you said, I also think it''s only fitting toe back to this ce on ourst night before going back home. Once we get back, who knows when we''d get the time to have such a vacation again."

    "Does it matter? Isn''t it enough that we''d be together every day?"

    "Not every day," reminded Shui Xian. "My wife loves her work. How is it possible for us to be together every day? At most, we''ll be together every night."

    "Don''t I do my best to give my weekends to you? Do you have any idea how many business trips I gave up on all because of you? I have never been like this before meeting you."

    Shui Xian chuckled at her words, "It''s okay to go on business trips but asionally. You can''t expect me to guard an empty room. It''s too lonely."

    "My husband is clingy."

    "I am," agreed Shui Xian. "And you knew this before you proposed to me. So, now, there is no return policy. Just bear with this."

    "Who is returning you? And who should I return you to? You better be obedient and just stay as mine. Don''t have any other ideas."

    "Am I someone who can have such ideas?" Shui Xian looked at her in shock. "I don''t change my mind or my feelings that easily."

    After ying around like this, they stopped to look at the sunset. With their hands still interlocked, Shui Xian looped his arm over her head and hugged her from behind. He put his chin on her shoulder as they looked at the scene of the sun dipping into the water as if being swallowed by the endless water in front of their eyes. It was fascinating to look at this scene.

    "Wife..."

    "Hm?"

    "Do you know?"

    "What?"

    "I love you."

    "Oh?" Raelle raised her brow at him as she tilted her head to look up at him. "Then do you know?"

    "What?" he cooperated with her.

    "I love you more."

    Shui Xianughed but still argued, "No way. I am pretty sure that I love you more."

    "No. It''s definitely me."

    "How can you be so sure?"

    "I just do. You fell first but I fell harder."

    "Wow! Have you been surfing the intetely, darling?"

    "Why? I can''t surf the inte now."

    Shui Xian kissed her earlobe saying, "When did I say that? You can do whatever you want. And also, I am happy to know that you love me more."

    "Well, as long as you are happy," said Raelle as she leaned back allowing him better ess to her neck where he started dropping kisses like dragonfly skipping over the water surface.

    "Raelle?"

    "Hm?"

    "Are you happy?"

    "Huh?"

    "I mean, it''s the first time for us to spend such a long time together. Although we have been married for so long, we usually were busy with work or had other things to do. So, spending day and night together was only possible over the weekends. But this time, we spent a whole month with just the two of us. There were no other distractions. It was just you and I. I am wondering if you got tired of just seeing my face?"

    Raelle kissed his chin saying, "I can never get tired of this face. It''s impossible to get tired of it in this life."

    "You aren''t just coaxing me right?"

    "Am I someone who coax people?" questioned Raelle. "You are just looking for ways to make me sweet talk. Stop it."

    "Oh, I got caught." He hugged her so tight that it felt like he was gonna knock all the air out of her lungs. But Raelle didn''t even react to his possessive desire to always want to merge her body with his own. "Baby, I am happy that I met you."

    "I know. You have said that way too many times."

    "Can''t I keep saying it for all my life?"

    "You can," she replied. "Then keep saying it. I don''t mind anyway."

    "Thank you for your kindness, your grace!"

    "It''s okay. I''m feeling generous these days."

    They both ended up smiling with her words and turned to walk back. Shui Xian brought her shoes to her and said, "Put them back on. The sand is cold now. It''s better not to be barefoot."

    Raelle agreed and let him put on her shoes for her. Then they walked through the path made of fairy lights and candles which led to the cozy and romantic space just made for the two of them.

    Shui Xian was actually a little surprised, "Howe this was organized? It seems like the caretakers of the ind need a raise now. They really can read my mind now."

    Raelle almost rolled her eyes at him as she pulled him to sit down to eat and said, "It''s not the caretakers reading your mind. It''s me who arranged it for us."

    Shui Xian''s eyes widened in surprise. "No way. You did it?"

    "Why are you looking so surprised? Can''t I do it? What''s wrong with me arranging a date with my husband?"

    "Nothing is wrong with it," said Shui Xian. He was just unable to believe that she''d take the initiative to do something like this that went against her character. It had always been him arranging such surprises for her so it took him really a while to believe that she was willing to do it for him now. This progress was really unexpected but he loved it.

    "Do you like it?"

    "Of course, I do," answered Shui Xian. "Anything that you do for me, I love it. Anyway, as long as it''s just two of us, I''m always happy."

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