《Fight the Landlord, Fall in Love》


 Chapter 1 - Director Sun is a Fastidious Man

    <h4>Chapter 1 - Director Sun is a Fastidious Man</h4>


    Fight the Landlord (¶·µØÖ÷) is a very popr 3-yer (often gambling) Chinese card game where there are two peasants and onendlord. The goal of the game is to be the first one to get rid of your cards. You can get rid of your cards by ying more ¡°powerful¡± cards against the opponent¡¯s previous move. This is a guide on how to y. If you search on YouTube, there are plenty of professional matches you can watch.


    In the dead of night, stars scattered sparsely across the sky.


    A ck sedan sped down the long street, blurring the streemps outside its windows into two resplendent ribbons of golden light. The time approached two in the morning, and although there was no congestion on the road, cars would rush by from time to time.


    In the center of the city, the bright lights of towering buildings washed the night aglow, forever unable to sink into sleep.


    The chauffeur stopped at an intersection, casually ncing at the rearview mirror while waiting at the red light. The director sat expressionlessly in the back row, brows tightly knit and staring sharply at his phone screen. Hisplexion definitely could not be considered pleasant, seemingly still engrossed in work-rted troubles.


    He¡¯s wealthy yet still works so hard; no wonder he¡¯s such a sessful figure, the chauffeur thought to himself. Noticing that the red light had counted down to zero, he regained his concentration, stepped on the gas pedal, and drove smoothly past the intersection.


    ¡®Sessful figure¡¯ Sun Zinan was using his ever-present, deeply profound concentration to stare at his WeChat interface. Finally, he tapped on the Fight the Landlord applet and began a new game.


    This was his recently acquired hobby. Whenever he was bored, he would y two games of Fight the Landlord; even if it did not relieve stress, it at least made his life less monotonous.


    Director Sun had only average gaming skills and he did not put much effort into it, but he was a pay-to-win yer with over 2.3 million Huanle Dou, the in-game currency.


    The game loaded after the countdown. Due to the amount of Huanle Dou he had, Sun Zinan was forced into the top-level division.


    The starting betting value of this division was one thousand, the highest thirty thousand. Neither wins nor losses were small sums and bankruptcy was especially easy. But tonight, Sun Zinan¡¯s luck was not bad and he still retained the clear-headedness of someone who had barely started bidding. Without using much effort, he even managed to win five matches in a row.


    After each win, the system would automatically switch him to two new opponents. This time, the yer whose turn was after his was called ¡®Fresh Breeze Comes Gently¡¯ and their avatar was a timeless white lotus. The yer before him had the English name ¡®DONKI¡¯ and his avatar was a double-helix structure simr to DNA.


    Sun Zinan¡¯spany was a part of the biotechnology sector, so he was particrly drawn to the avatar and subconsciously nced at it again.


    This single nce distracted him into pressing the wrong button, and he identally tapped ¡®Snatch the Landlord¡¯s Position.¡¯


    Snatching thendlord¡¯s position doubled the risks and rewards. Sun Zinan¡¯s deck was not very good; when he had realized his mistake, he cursed inwardly. Fuck.


    Fresh Breeze Comes Gently skipped over their turn. It seemed like DONKI¡¯s deck was pretty good, with a high chance of winning, and he snatched thendlord position back. The score quadrupled, yet DONKI was apparently not yet satisfied and selected ¡®Super Boost.¡¯


    Their bottom cards were revealed, a pair of threes and one four.


    Sun Zinan stared at his own triple fours and pair of threes. ¡°...¡±


    What trash cards!


    He had lost this round for sure; DONKI still had a king bomb. The deducted number of HuanLe Dou made Sun Zinan frown slightly.


    Sun Zinan was the silentlypetitive type. DONKI¡¯s victory made him feel like his arteries had been injected with chicken blood, and he was immediately ready for battle.


    The chauffeur in the front seat felt an inexplicable murderous intent from the back seat, as if tiny razor des were scraping at the fine hairs at the back of his neck.


    ording to the rules of the game, if you lost after a winning streak, the system would not switch the yers. The new round began with the same three people, and DONKI was once again thendlord. Sun Zinan did not fight for the position, nor did he choose to boost it. Although he did not have a joker in his hand, his deck was good and he even had a small bomb.


    In the first half of the game, he only yed three singles and skipped the rest of his turns. Fresh Breeze Comes Gently put out a pair of twos, tricking DONKI into using up the ck-and-white joker in his hand. However, DONKI thought victory was certain and threw out multiple pairs, only leaving a colored joker in his hand. At this time, Sun Zinan finally smirked and unhurriedly used four threes to gently bomb him.


    DONKI, ¡°...¡±


    Sun Zinan¡¯s moves were to the point of immorality. He had about a dozen cards left in his hand that were all either pairs or straights. Every move he made was like a stab towards DONKI, leaving his opponent with no choice but to sit there and take the hits. DONKI was so enraged that he opened up the interaction chat panel of the game and bitterly sent a bucket of cold water over to Sun Zinan.


    The sound of water sshing out from the game was so loud that the chauffeur curiously looked over at the rearview mirror.


    Sun Zinan startled, then immediately threw a retaliatory rotten tomato.


    DONKI could not escape this, so he decided to recklessly throw his cards away and devote himself to dousing Sun Zinan with cold water. Sun Zinan multitasked and threw rotten tomatoes as he continued to y out cards. The ceaseless exchange of beatings became as lively as a vegetable market. Fresh Breeze Comes Gently saw that themotion did not deter the game, so he teamed up with Sun Zinan with a chicken-catching effect tobat DONKI. The pressurized pot blew up, and the atmosphere became exceedingly dynamic.


    The round ended with the peasants¡¯ victory, so the system did not switch the yers. The trio of yers paid no attention to who won or lost, each quickly tapping ¡®Start¡¯ and reaching out towards their opponents¡¯ avatars¡ª


    Ice water, chicken feathers, and tomatoes flew chaotically at each other.


    In the few months Sun Zinan had been ying Fight the Landlord, he had never met such a childish yer. It could be said that the two of them had started a feud. DONKI¡¯s battle strategy was to kill a thousand soldiers while losing eight hundred of his own¡ªas long as Fresh Breeze Comes Gently yed a card, he would use thergest card in his hand, taking away all of Sun Zinan¡¯s chances to ce down a card.


    Sun Zinan¡¯s move came after DONKI, so he was thoroughly suppressed. He was so enraged that he almost choked up a mouthful of blood, furiously sending DONKI emoticons of a chicken being strangled.


    This round became utter chaos. DONKI was increasingly frenzied, Sun Zinan was powerless despite his determination, and Fresh Breeze Comes Gently profited greatly from the situation. At the end of the round, Sun Zinan swept his eyes over the final results and abruptly thought, Fuck.


    He had been so caught up in throwing tomatoes and pouring cold water that he hadn¡¯t noticed that he was teammates with DONKI...the profiting Fresh Breeze Comes Gently had been thendlord!


    The phone screen¡¯s dim light illuminated his face, casting a pallid look.


    Director Sun¡¯s finger hovered over his screen, hesitating to press the ¡®Start¡¯ button. Even though he could not see the person on the other side of the screen, he could feel the awkward embarrassment between the two of them.


    While he was hesitating, the chauffeur turned to the left. Sun Zinan had been too engrossed in the game and could not brace himself from tilting over. His finger identally pressed down on the ¡®Start¡¯ button.


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    After looking at his screen closely, he realized that he had hesitated for too long. The system had already switched him to a different game. Sun Zinan let out a sigh, somehow tinged by an indescribable regret.


    Perhaps it was because venting made people happy. Director Sun had strict self-discipline; even when ying Fight the Landlord, he had to y properly. He couldn¡¯t recall thest time he had unrestrainedly thrown rotten tomatoes at someone.


    He won this new round as the sedan stopped in front of his apartment. Sun Zinan closed the game and put his phone away. By the time the car had parkedpletely and the chauffeur had opened the door for him, Sun Zinan¡¯s mood had returned back to normal. ¡°You¡¯ve worked hard. Pick me up at eight tomorrow.¡±


    The chauffeur nodded, watching him walk towards the entrance gates, then suddenly remembered something and hurriedly called out, ¡°Boss, Butler Wu called today and said the old man wants you to go home for dinner tomorrow evening.¡±


    Sun Zinan¡¯s footsteps paused, the momentary rxation brought by Fight the Landlord immediately vanishing into smoke. A heavy weariness clung to the corners of his eyes and brows, then disappeared in an instant, merely dew evaporating under the sun. His voice was coldly indifferent. ¡°Understood.¡±


    The chauffeur replied, ¡°Please take care. Good night.¡±


    The next day. Yinhong Tower, Hongsen Biotechnology.


    Gleaming ss windows reflected a rarely seen clear sky. Clusters of skyscrapers cast shadows on the ground, preserving a vestige of cold air in front of the building despite the warm April breeze.


    The automated ss doors slid open to reveal young men in suits hurrying down the stairs. Traces of shock shed by when they noticed the Bentley outside, but all of them quickly suppressed their emotions into masks of neutral expressions.


    Assistant Yu Liang scuttered over, rushing to help Sun Zinan open the car door.


    Sun Zinan was not sitting inside the car when he got there. Instead, he was leaning against the car door, knocking his fingers against the roof. He cast a sideways nce at his assistant and asked, ¡°What are we doing today?¡±


    His eyes were graceful and had a striking ssic beauty; long but not narrow, resembling the carved jade phoenixes in museums. He had deep double eyelids cut distinctly above thick darkshes. It was unclear if he had some foreign or ethnic minority ancestry, but his eyes were especially deeply set, his gaze imposing.


    Yu Liang was so frightened he began stuttering. ¡°Director Sun, weren¡¯t we going¡ªgoing to Tianhai University?¡±


    ¡°Going to a school in this kind of car,¡± Sun Zinan said with a frown, ¡°Means that we made a special trip to show off because we¡¯re afraid people won¡¯t know we¡¯re some kind of nouveau riche, doesn¡¯t it?¡±


    The breeze under the building was cool, but Yu Liang felt cold sweat running down his forehead. ¡°This...my apologies.¡±


    ¡°Change the car.¡± Sun Zinan waved his hand to dismiss the matter. ¡°Be more low-profile. We¡¯re going to ask them for a business partnership, not to p their faces with money.¡±


    Yu Liang hurriedly followed the chauffeur to the garage to rece the car. As he walked, he inwardly scolded himself. Yu Liang had just joined thepany, and wasn¡¯t familiar with Director Sun. He had only heard from an experienced assistant, Gu Yao, that Director Sun was a meticulous person. Yu Liang saw that Director Sun was very young, so he had thought he was meticulous towards luxury cars and women. Contrary to his expectations, Sun Zinan was actually a very serious person, and now Yu Liang was sweating over the consequences of his prejudices.


    On the way to the school, Sun Zinan answered a call. The caller sounded so anxious they could have crawled through the phone and dragged Sun Zinan back to thepany. ¡°Why are you personally making the trip?¡±


    Sun Zinan replied easily, ¡°One can only show sincerity through determination. Since it didn¡¯t workst time, we¡¯ll have to try again. We have to show him our earnest efforts.¡±


    ¡°That professor is such a stubborn fellow, so obstinate...aiya, you should have brought someone with you.¡±


    Sun Zinan poked at Yu Liang, who was sitting in front of him. ¡°Make a sound for Director Zheng.¡±


    Yu Liang, ¡°Ah?¡±


    ¡°Did you hear?¡± Sun Zinan put the phone back by his ear. ¡°I brought a thug, stop fretting.¡±


    Director Zheng, ¡°...¡±


    Sun Zinan hung up on him.


    At three fifty in the afternoon, an unobtrusive ck Mercedes-Benz slowly rolled to a stop in front of the Life Sciences Institute of Tianhai University. After Yu Liang conversed with the front desk, he turned back to tell Sun Zinan, ¡°Director Sun, Professor Tang says he can only meet for half an hour, so it¡¯s not too convenient to go too far. We¡¯ll meet him at one of the caf¨¦s on campus.¡±


    Sun Zinan did not appear to feel slighted. It seemed he had made prior mental preparations as he casually replied, ¡°Sure.¡±


    The smell of coffee and cream wafted throughout the building. There was a counter in a corner with a small ckboard chalk menu. This ce was called a caf¨¦, but it was really a student convenience store. Sun Zinan sat at a small square table and squeezed his long legs underneath, resulting in a slightly awkward pose. However, it was impossible to tell, and he even leisurely studied the menu.


    It was a weekday afternoon, and most of the students were either in ssrooms orbs. Every once in a while, a student would pass by and be unable to resist buying a coffee at the counter. This allowed them to also sneak nces at Sun Zinan, like they were zoo visitors who did not want to overtly distress the animal.


    Being the type of person who easily forgot his mistakes and was as unvignt as a simple-minded squirrel, Yu Liang thought only of food the moment he sat down andpletely erased the emphasized ¡®low-profile.¡¯ Having seen the students secretly taking pictures on their phones, he did not sense anything off and even mused out loud, ¡°Tch, tch. You can do whatever you want if you¡¯re handsome.¡±


    Sun Zinan endured for as long as he could, before aiming a kick under the table.


    From the hallway echoed the sound of an elevator arriving. It waspletely buried under the noise of coffee machines and Yu Liang, along with his chair, flying through the air due to a certain kick. Sun Zinan did not notice anything until the sound of steady footsteps closed in, at which he refocused his attention on the handsome, model-like man in front of him.


    The handsome man had wless posture and wore sses. He did not look at them, and instead addressed the students near the counter. ¡°Don¡¯t be impolite, stop sneaking photos.¡±

 Chapter 2 - What a Fake

    <h4>Chapter 2 - What a Fake</h4>


    Sun Zinan unnoticeably squinted his eyes, straightened his back, tightened his waist, and slightly tilted his body backwards. It was apletely subconscious, defensive posture.


    Yu Liang stood up in a panic to introduce the two of them. ¡°Boss, this is Tang Kai, or Professor Tang; Professor Tang, this is our Director Sun.¡±


    Tang Kai uttered a slight ¡°en,¡± his gaze falling upon Sun Zinan.


    His entire body exuded an umon, keen rigorousness. It was an aggressiveness far beyond what Sun Zinan imagined a schr would have. Sun Zinan automatically categorized him as an unyielding person. He raised his eyebrows and got up, extending a hand out. ¡°Hello Professor Tang, I¡¯m Sun Zinan. I¡¯ve heard a lot about you.¡±


    Tang Kai was very tall; he was at least 1.9m. The 1.8m tall Sun Zinan seemed noticeably shorter when standing in front of him. As Sun Zinan sized him up, he had already made a few basic judgements about the professor¡¯s character. Tang Kai restrainedly shook Sun Zinan¡¯s hand, then said mildly, ¡°I cannot live up to your expectations. Mr. Sun, please sit. Would you like to drink something?¡±


    ¡°My treat,¡± Sun Zinan responded. ¡°What does Professor Tang want? I¡¯ll have the assistant order for us.¡±


    ¡°No need.¡± Tang Kai directly refused him. ¡°We have a faculty discount.¡±


    For some reason, Sun Zinan felt like choking a little. He put on a fake smile and said, ¡°Then I¡¯ll have to thank you, Professor Tang.¡±


    Maybe it was his misconception, but Sun Zinan felt like Professor Tang¡¯s attitude towards him was rather unfriendly; his eyes always hid a cold, criticizing look of judgement. After reflecting for a moment, he could not figure out if he had ever offended him, and could only attribute this hostility to the fact that this was their first meeting. Neither of them had had the time to befortable with each other.


    However, although this was their first time meeting each other, he had since long ago heard of Tang Kai. A leading schr in gics research, bachelors in cell biology at Tianhai University, Ph.D. in biology at American¡¯s Prince¡¯s College, and conducted three years of postdoctoral research with renowned biologist Andy Bridgewater. He had returned to China the previous year, to teach students and continue his research at his alma mater. He had originally been able to secure a professorship due to his resume; however, Tianhai University had feared Tang Kai¡¯s youth would stir up too much controversy. Thus, he was currently Tianhai University¡¯s biology department¡¯s youngest associate professor.


    The barista at the counter was quick on her feet¡ªshe made three cups of coffee and sent them to their table within ten minutes. It was just mediocre coffee sold to students; one could imagine how it would taste. Sun Zinan took atte and politely thanked the barista, but only put the cup to his lips before cing it down again. Tang Kai did not seem to mind the vor and took a sip. ¡°I¡¯m really sorry, I have a meeting this afternoon so my time is limited. Mr. Sun, let¡¯s make a long story short.¡±


    Generally speaking, talking to technical personnel about business was something that rarely befell Sun Zinan¡¯s shoulders¡ªhe usually left it for lower departments. However, thest meeting had not gone well, and Director Zheng did not have a good opinion of this Professor Tang. Sun Zinan had been monitoring this industry for a while and thought that the future prospects were too excellent to pass over, so he decided to try again.


    Sun Zinan did not beat around the bush and went straight to the point. ¡°I¡¯m here on behalf of Hongsen Biotechnology. We had some people meet with you before, does Professor Tang have any impression?¡±


    Tang Kai¡¯s lenses shed, and his tone carried a hint of displeasure. ¡°Oh, I have an impression.¡±


    It would not be an exaggeration to call this Professor Tang a genius. Sun Zinan had prepared himself to face a scientist who was always immersed in research andcked worldly interactions.


    ¡°This February, you published a paper on the direction of ribonucleic acid interference pathways that caused a huge amount of discussion in the scientificmunity. I heard you even patented the technology.¡± Sun Zinan continued with absolute sincerity, ¡°I am here today in hopes of working together to develop this patent.¡±


    ¡°Thanks.¡± Tong Kai¡¯s response was just as direct. ¡°But I remember I made it very clear to your staff that I don¡¯t have any ns of selling the patent.¡±


    This response was within his expectations. Sun Zinan raised his eyebrows and asked, ¡°May I ask why?¡±


    Tang Kai replied, ¡°The technology isn¡¯t fully developed yet and isn¡¯t ready for application.¡±


    ¡°Although Professor Tang is fighting at the front lines of scientific research, he doesn¡¯t know the market well.¡± Sun Zinan grinned tolerantly. ¡°We buy the right to manage technology patents. Of course, we will invest a lot of manpower in researching and developing the most suitable applications, and we will definitely not use it to create illegal gic drugs or gic surgery.¡±


    ¡°The entire industry is watching this new development¡ªI¡¯m sure it hasn¡¯t just been us looking for Professor Tang, right?¡± He leaned back in his chair, rxed and appearing extremely confident. ¡°Targeted gene silencing is the most likely means of curing major human diseases at the source. Let me remind you of this¡ªit¡¯s only a matter of time before others wille up with simr results. This patent of yours is currently at the forefront, but who knows what will happen in the future?¡±


    Tang Kai was not moved by his words, and merely politely nodded his head. ¡°En.¡±


    But in Sun Zinan¡¯s eyes, silence was a sign of wavering. He went on. ¡°The unique strength of Hongsen is that we have enough patience and capital to support the project long-term. What we value is not this one patent, but the scientific knowledge and capabilities of Professor Tang¡¯s team. Our two sides can totally integrate in a long-term partnership, and if Professor Tang wants, I can even invest in your research projects...¡±


    Tang Kai¡¯s brow twitched, as if he had finally been moved by this copper-smelling proposal. ¡°Director Sun.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°Go ahead.¡±


    ¡°I want to ask you a question,¡± Tang Kai questioned while frowning. ¡°Does yourpany...really understand what gic silencing is?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    He looked back at Tang Kai, gently raising his brows to show a civil expression of slight doubt. Although he did not say it out loud, every muscle on his face seemed to be asking, ¡°Are you kidding me?¡±


    Tang Kai behaved as if he was lecturing his students, tapping his fingers against the surface of the table as he said leisurely, ¡°Four years ago, Hongsen Biotechnology bought a dozen or so patents for gic diseases from Dongfang University. Yourpany imed that they could develop an oral vine within a year¡ªthis announcement shocked the entire industry, and almost won a Nobel Prize that year. It¡¯s a pity no one knows what happened afterwards.¡±


    ¡°I really do not want to sell the patent¡ªmy project does notck financial support.¡± He pushed at his sses, his tone by no means discourteous, yet tart. ¡°So this time, if yourpany wants to make ¡®high-end gic products¡¯ and needs to acquire cornstalks and kelp, I suggest Director Sun go out, take a right, and go to Agriculture College next door.¡±


    Sun Zinan¡¯s smile turned stiff. Yu Liang was so frightened his jaw was about to drop to the floor.


    ¡°...¡±


    Shit, what a difficult man.


    This bookworm looked so reticent, but his words were nuclear weapons!


    The situation became very awkward, yet Tang Kai merely pinched his paper cup and took another sip of coffee.


    Tang Kai had of course heard of Hongsen Technology¡ªnot only had he heard of this smallpany, he had since long ago heard of its backing, the Sun family.


    Sun Zinan¡¯s grandfather and founder of the Hongson Group, Sun Wenbin, was a member of B City¡¯s Taihe Group¡¯s Sun family who had left the family a long time ago and developed his ownpany in S City. Notwithstanding the fact that Hongsen Group had done impressive work in the city, it was still no match for the prowess of the Taihe Group¡¯s Sun family. Sun Zinan was the youngest son of the group¡¯s current president, Sun Ying, and he had three older brothers and an older sister. He had gone abroad at a young age and no one had really heard of him. When he came back, he quietly took over the Hongsen Group¡¯s smallpany, Hongsen Biotechnology.


    Thispany, presented as a high-end biotechnology researchpany, was actually just a smallpany that sold health products. It was half dead, losing money every year, and seemed more like an industry for illegal activities. About four years ago, the newly inaugurated boss Sun Zinan redirected thepany¡¯s management and turned his sights toward biopharmaceuticals. However, due to the internal struggle within his family, the project did notnd, which led to the ¡®oral insulin¡¯ incident.


    The incident convinced Sun Zinan to temporarilyy down his ambitions and to instead aim for the more promising gic testing and health management market. It sessfully changed thepany from cheating themon people to coaxing the rich, making Hongsen Biotechnology a thriving and sessful health club.


    However, it seemed like Sun Zinan had not abandoned his original goals and intended to use Tang Kai¡¯s patent as the starting point for gravitating thepany back towards the high-end biotechnology industry.


    Professor Tang was a schrly youth who had devoted himself to scientific research. He desired to benefit humanity and would never achieve his mission through acting as an expert for a healthcarepany that sold scam medicines.


    Sun Zinan was tormented almost to the point of a heart attack. He had to take a while to reconstruct his psychological state before he began again. ¡°Professor Tang might have misunderstood us...¡±


    Tang Kai only needed to speak a few words to tear at Sun Zinan¡¯s scars. He drank his coffee and steadily spoke without a hint of remorse. ¡°Thank you for noticing my work, Director Sun, but please do not waste any more efforts on me in the future.¡±


    Sun Zinan was nearly angered to death. As a result, Yu Liang was too terrified to even breathe loudly, trembling and shrinking like a small quail.


    ¡°I understand Professor Tang¡¯s apprehension.¡± Sun Zinan slowly sucked in a deep breath. ¡°Although this was unsessful, I hope Professor Tang won¡¯t cut us offpletely. I hope there will be opportunities for coboration in the future.¡±


    Tang Kai made a nomittal ¡°en.¡±


    Sun Zinan had received a p to the face; no matter how excellent his upbringing, he would not want to stay any longer. He offered Tang Kai a business card, and motioned to Yu Liang that they were leaving. After Sun Zinan left, Tang Kai did not go back to hisboratory and instead stood by the first floor window, watching the inconspicuous ck sedan drive away.


    The warm sun at four o¡¯clock in the afternoon melted through the windows onto the square table, pulling the untouched cup of coffee into a long, nted shadow.


    Tang Kai slowly sipped at thette in his hand, his gaze falling indifferently on the coffee cup Sun Zinan had left behind.


    ¡°What a fake.¡±


    He lifted the corners of his mouth sarcastically, but his final conclusion was said as lightly as the breeze.

 Chapter 3 - Am I the Daughter in Law?

    <h4>Chapter 3 - Am I the Daughter in Law?</h4>


    Sun Zinan had originally nned to meet at 4 P.M., invite his new business partner to dinner after their discussion, and happily finalize their coboration over food. Who would have expected Tang Kai to be such a difficult nut to crack ¨C not only did the negotiations fail, but their return time was exactly during rush hour and they were stuck in traffic outside the Third Ring.


    The end of the queue of cars could not be seen with the naked eye; by the time they returned to thepany, the sun had almost gone down. Sun Zinan nced at his watch. ¡°Turn around. Drop me off at my father¡¯s.¡±


    His tone was awful, as if he were about to start a fight. Yu Liang had been under so much constant stress the entire afternoon that he was nearly curled up into a ball. At this point, if he didn¡¯t speak up, he was afraid Sun Zinan would forget about his existence. He could only weakly mumble, ¡°Then, then I¡¯ll trouble you to stop by the road. I¡¯ll get off and take the subway back to thepany.¡±


    Sun Zinan scowled and side-eyed Yu Liang until the assistant hadpletely run out of battery.


    Sun Zinan seemed like he was well-mannered and easy to talk to¡ªin business matters, he always stood by his words and had used his authority for good means. He didn¡¯t enjoy releasing his anger on unrted people, but he couldn¡¯t bear Yu Liang¡¯s weak-willed personality, so said coldly, ¡°You can. If you leave now, you don¡¯t have toe to work tomorrow.¡±


    Yu Liang was so scared his tears were about to flow out for two meters. He immediately vowed, ¡°I, I, I, I, I am not in a hurry! I want to work overtime!¡±


    Sun Zinan snorted coldly.


    The head of Hongsen Group, Sun Ying, was 76 this year. Sun Zinan was born when he was nearly 50. Usually, the youngest child was the favored, spoiled child, but because Sun Zinan was much younger than his older siblings, he became an outcast. He had gone to boarding school at a young age and rarely went home. He wasn¡¯t close with his parents nor his siblings, and did not have many friends. His entire 27 years of life consisted of studying, going abroad, and taking up the family business. Being talented and sessful was one thing, but it always felt like there was something missing, as if hecked a temte for developing a personality.


    No one cared about his affections, and no one cared about his sorrows and joys.


    Thus, Sun Zinan was reluctant to go home, because his father¡¯s sudden summons usually did not bode well for him. Either there was an issue with thepany, or he had a new task to assign him.


    The Mercedes turned around on the Third Ring, heading out of the city.


    At 6 P.M., Sun Zinan appeared on time at the Sun family vi. Behind him followed his panicky assistant who wasn¡¯t sure where to ce his hands. Sun Zinan handed his suit jacket over to a servant, but before he could go wash his hands, he heard the sound of a walking stick knocking on the ground. He sighed inwardly, then turned quietly around. ¡°Dad.¡±


    Sun Ying appeared at the living room entrance. Although he was getting by in age, he did not seem very elderly. The tall body still stood straight, and his eyes were bright and shining, full of vitality. ¡°Who is this?¡±


    Sun Zinan nced at Yu Liang and decided that this guy was frightened out of his wits, so he responded for him. ¡°My assistant.¡±


    Yu Liang said shakily, ¡°Chair-chairman, hello.¡±


    Sun Ying did not really care for this tiny ant of a youth and he frowned as he asked Sun Zinan, ¡°I asked you toe back home for dinner, why did you bring your assistant?¡±


    ¡°Working overtime,¡± Sun Zinan replied casually.


    Sun Ying made an ¡°en¡± sound but before he spoke again, the sound of footsteps and talking resounded outside. When the door opened, arge group of people walked in, and a young man asked loudly, ¡°Guests came? Whose Mercedes is outside?¡±


    Sun Zinan¡¯s expression remained unchanged, but Yu Liang felt that his already poor mood had worsened by a few notches.


    ¡°Mine,¡± he said.


    ¡°Yo, little uncle.¡± The young man smiled as he greeted, ¡°Why did youe in a car like this? Has yourpany encountered some obstacles recently?¡±


    ¡°Required for work.¡± Sun Zinan did not want to pay attention to him, and nodded to another, older man. ¡°Elder brother.¡±


    The group that had arrived was the family of Sun Zinan¡¯s eldest brother, Sun Ziyuan. This person was the sessor to the old man and the future chairman of the Hongsen Group. He was over fifty, and his visage was not one of an aggressive person. He wore sses and looked very refined, even more schrly than Professor Tang.


    However, the age gap between the two brothers was a little big¡ªSun Ziyuan¡¯s eldest son was only a year younger than Sun Zinan.


    Yu Liang dizzily followed Sun Zinan to sit down on the living room sofa, listening to an earful of their discussion of small household matters. He felt that wealthy people were still simr to his numerous aunts¡ªwhen they got together, all they talked about was a pile of trifles and meaningless gossip. As he drifted about in his daze, his pocket vibrated. Yu Liang covertly took out his phone and realized that it was a text message from the Sun Zinan who was currently sitting across from him.


    Sun Zinan: [In a bit, after we eat dinner, make up an excuse and say thepany needs me to go back and work overtime.]


    Yu Liang finally understood why Sun Zinan had steadfastly refused to let him leave the car earlier. He thought, Director Sun didn¡¯t have it easy. Work was troublesome, and he couldn¡¯t even experience the warmth of home but instead had to remain passive in their court politics. What was the use in being handsome and rich? He still had to go back and work overtime like any other single dog.


    Not to mention, even a single dog would have an eye-opening experience eating with his wealthy family, yet Sun Zinan¡¯s meal was full of worries.


    After dinner, things developed exactly as Sun Zinan had expected. The old man set his chopsticks down and calmly ordered, ¡°Zinan,e to my study.¡±


    Sun Zinan was annoyed to the point of his head exploding, but he did not dare defy his own father. As soon as he entered the study, Sun Ying put on the stance of someone about to begin a long lecture. ¡°You¡¯re not young anymore, you should consider starting a family.¡±


    Like following instructions step by step, Sun Zinan understood what he should do at each given time for his life milestones.


    He immediately refused. ¡°I¡¯m busy with work, so I don¡¯t want to consider it now. Wait until I¡¯m thirty.¡±


    ¡°There won¡¯t be any suitable people when you¡¯re willing to consider,¡± Sun Ying said. ¡°I have an old friend...¡±


    Sun Zinan interrupted the moment he heard that phrase. ¡°Dad, I told you before that I¡¯m gay. Don¡¯t waste their time.¡±


    ¡°Stop using being gay as an excuse.¡± Sun Ying smacked the table as he rebuked him. ¡°You just don¡¯t want to be tied down! You¡¯re almost thirty and you don¡¯t want to start a family. If you don¡¯t understand what responsibility is, how can you establish authority and trust in your leadership?¡±


    This was all devilish logic.


    Sun Zinan repressed his anger, not wanting to argue with him, and hopelessly asked, ¡°Then what do you want me to do?¡±


    Sun Ying said, ¡°I have a friend whose son is also gay, and the two of you will be a good match. Your ages fit well, so meet up when you have time.¡±


    Sun Zinan¡¯s wrinkled brows turned into a ¡®´¨¡¯ character. ¡°Dad, don¡¯t forget, your friend¡¯s son is probably the same age as eldest brother. Do you want me to be their family¡¯s daughter inw?¡±


    ¡°What did you say? Who made you the daughter-inw? I¡¯m your father, how could I hurt you?¡± Sun Ying said, ¡°My friend has not retired yet. His son is only thirty next year, he¡¯s young...¡±


    As soon as Sun Zinan heard ¡®has not retired,¡¯ he understood. Nine times out of ten, what Sun Ying, who viewed marriage as business, had approved of was not the young man but the father.


    Although Sun Zinan had never really carefully nned out the important events in his life, he did not want to carelessly give up the next half of his life, so he refused directly. ¡°I¡¯m not interested. I don¡¯t need a blind date.¡±


    At this time, two meek knocks sounded from outside. Sun Zinan knew his rescuer Yu Liang hade. But as he moved to open the door, Sun Ying asked from behind, ¡°Are you really not going?¡±


    Sun Zinan opened the door to let Yu Liang in. ¡°Really. What happened?¡±


    Yu Liang said, ¡°Boss, Gu Yao jie just called and said something urgent came up. She wants you back in the office.¡±


    Sun Zinan nodded and turned his head back towards Sun Ying, saying with an assured expression, ¡°Dad, I still have work, so I¡¯ll go first.¡±


    ¡°Wait!¡± Sun Ying said.


    Sun Zinan, ¡°What else?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re his assistant, right? Come here.¡± Sun Ying called Yu Liang over. ¡°What¡¯s so urgent that they need him to go all the way back?¡±


    Yu Liang faced the old man¡¯s prating gaze and felt as if he was once again defending his senior thesis. Fortunately, he still had a few of his wits gathered about him, and quickly improvised, ¡°Chairman, this is what happened. We went to see a professor at Tianhai University this afternoon to discuss acquiring his patent. The professor refused us, but Assistant Zhao just called to say that he had received a text message saying the other side changed his mind, so Director Sun needs to go back to work on it.¡±


    Sun Zinan almost gave Yu Liang a standing ovation. He had thought this guy always appeared extremely timid, and never expected him to be brave in the face of danger and to even have some decent skills.


    Sun Ying seemed like he half-believed Yu Liang¡¯s words. ¡°Which professor at Tianhai University?¡±


    Yu Liang unashamedly replied, ¡°It is Professor Tang Kai of the Biological Sciences Department.¡±


    Sun Ying startled, then a faint smile crept into the corners of his lips. Sun Zinan could not understand why, but he suddenly had an ominous feeling.


    ¡°Look, what a coincidence. Sun Ying reclined back in his chair. ¡°The person I wanted you to meet was exactly this person. I didn¡¯t think you had already met.¡±


    Sun Zinan nked. ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°Tang Kai.¡± Sun Ying asked him, ¡°He is the son of provincial partymittee member Tang Zhenhua. Didn¡¯t you know?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    He turned his head slowly and stared at Yu Liang, squeezing his words through gritted teeth. ¡°Is that so...I haven¡¯t heard.¡±


    ¡°Since you¡¯ve already met, that¡¯s even better. Isn¡¯t this just fate?¡± Sun Ying was quite satisfied. ¡°Our two families are old friends. Go meet up with him and you¡¯ll also figure out yourpany affairs. It¡¯ll save you time. So, let¡¯s just have it at that. I¡¯ll have someone send you the time and ce.¡±


    Since it was an agreement on both sides, then Tang Kai would have long since known about this...no wonder his attitude today was so hostile.


    If it were Sun Zinan, had he known that this stinky and unyielding, penniless bookworm was his own blind date, he wouldn¡¯t have gone to Tianhai University today at all.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing else, you can go back.¡± After finishing up his matters, Sun Ying did not continue their discussion.


    Sun Zinan decided he might as well die struggling. ¡°I met Tang Kai today and felt like we were not a good match...¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care who you are a good match with, nor do I want to hear anything about your sexual orientation,¡± Sun Ying said inly. ¡°Let me remind you, if you don¡¯t want to marry Tang Kai, then don¡¯t even think about receiving a single cent of my inheritance.¡±


    The study fell into a deathly silence.


    Sun Ying stared at Sun Zinan, as if he had long foreseen what choice he would make.


    ¡°Fine.¡±


    After a moment of silence, Sun Zinan finallyughed due to the absurdity of the arrangement. ¡°Isn¡¯t it just a blind date? If you¡¯re not afraid of losing your old friend, I can certainly go.¡±


    He hung a smile on his face, but it was unclear whether it was self-mockery or pity, then walked out of the study and flung open the front door.

 Chapter 4 - Only Virgos Could Do Something Like This

    <h4>Chapter 4 - Only Virgos Could Do Something Like This</h4>


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Sun Ziyuan was downstairs and heard the noise, and he hastily stood up. ¡°Did you quarrel with Dad again?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t bother me. I want to ask you something.¡± Sun Zinan smiled coldly. ¡°Is it because you¡¯re securely living through every day, so you can¡¯t resist rubbing some sand into the old man¡¯s eyes? You¡¯re really generous.¡±


    This was said casually, without thinking. He did not care if Sun Ziyuan could even understand his meaning, and angrily flung his hands out as he walked away.


    Sun Qi peeled at a mandarin, grumbling, ¡°He was arguing with Grandfather, why would he turn his fire towards you? So weird.¡±


    Three vertical lines appeared between Sun Ziyuan¡¯s brows as he looked almost apprehensively towards the tightly shut door upstairs. He muttered lowly, ¡°Shut your mouth, don¡¯t talk nonsense!¡±


    Sun Qi was a little sullen at being scolded; he didn¡¯t understand why his father was suddenly behaving so erratically.


    In recent years, Sun Zinan had alwayse home to eat his meals with a stomach full of anger. There was already an established process of lighting, burning, then extinguishing the fire. He dropped his useless and inconsequential assistant off at the nearest subway station before driving himself to a bar owned by one of his friends.


    There was a saying that ¡°raising a cup to release your sorrow will only make your sorrows greater.¡± Today, for some reason, maybe because of the series of rotten eggs being thrown at him, the three sses of cold wine mixed unpleasantly with his burning stomach. Instead of calming his impatience, the alcohol only brought him a new problem. Just as Sun Zinan, who was frowning from the pain, was about to pay the bill and leave, a graceful figure sat down beside him. The flowery fragrance of Brgi perfume, along with the faint scent of smoke, drifted over. ¡°Yo, Boss Sun, what a rare sight.¡±


    ¡°Why are you moodily drinking by yourself? What¡¯s troubling you?¡± The slender, elegant beauty charmingly yed with their hair, propping a hand on the bar counter. ¡°Want to vent a little? I won¡¯t charge you.¡±


    ¡°No need, your presence is my loss.¡± Sun Zinan covered his nose and said in a low, muffled voice, ¡°Get up, go away. You smell.¡±


    The scent of perfume made him dizzy. Of course his good friend had to be a crossdresser who liked to wear perfume¡ªthis had made their friendship teeter dangerously across the edge of a cliff over the years.


    ¡°Qie, don¡¯t pretend to be courteous.¡± Xie Zhuozily put out his cigarette and returned to his normal voice, a low baritone, to tell the waiter, ¡°Give him a cup of hot water.¡±


    The ¡®beautiful woman¡¯ with long hair and red lips was actually a man. Sun Zinan and the waiter were both used to it, but the customers nearby showed expressions of disillusionment. Xie Zhuo took a sip of his whisky. ¡°As long as there is life, there will be endless troubles. Suppressing it will only make you miserable; it¡¯s better to let it out. This way, you won¡¯t be like a powder keg in the future, not knowing when you¡¯ll explode with a bang.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°What¡¯s the point of talking about it? If moving my lips a few times would solve it, then I would have be a chatterbox a long time ago.¡±


    ¡°The first step to solving a problem is to face it directly,¡± Xie Zhuo said. ¡°If you don¡¯t even have the courage to expose the wound, how can you expect it to heal?¡±


    ¡°Exposing a wound won¡¯t make it heal; it¡¯ll only lead to infection, causingplications, and eventually deformities.¡± Sun Zinan took the hot water from the waiter and said, ¡°Do you have anymon sense?¡±


    Xie Zhuo, ¡°Then just smother it within yourself, don¡¯t talk about it. I hope it smothers you to death.¡±


    Sun Zinan shook his head, and gave a snort ofughter.


    In their attitudes towards life, he and Xie Zhuo were pr opposites. Sun Zinan was exceedingly restrained, while Xie Zhuo expressed himself as freely as possible. Although it seemed like their personalities would sh, they actuallyplemented each other quite well. Their friendship waspletely due to the discretion of some higher being. They both were the type of men with acquaintances from all walks in life, but had few close friends. Most probably, thest time they were caught up in sentimental sincerity was in their youth; in adulthood they covered up their personal feelings so tightly it was difficult to make any intimate friends.


    Xie Zhuo was Sun Zinan¡¯s high school roommate. In the first year, the two of them basically ignored each other; although most of the students were either rich or of high standing, the two of them seemed to have neither the interest nor the motivation to make friends or interact with anyone. Sun Zinan got up early every day to attend ss with his frightening self-discipline while Xie Zhuo loitered about freely, sleeping in untilte morning every day and skipping ss as a habit. No teacher dared reprimand him.


    Xie Zhuo¡¯s father was in the real estate business and had profited greatly when the industry was in full swing. However, not even a year after his mother had passed away from cancer, his father married another woman. Xie Zhuo fought with his father until everything was aplete mess. In a fit of rage, his father sent him to boarding school. Once he was out of sight, out of mind, his father sweetly had a child with the stepmother.


    Provoked by his father and stepmother, the youthful Xie Zhuo developed a sense of ¡®love¡¯ that was different from other people¡¯s.


    Even to this day, Sun Zinan still clearly remembered that spring afternoon. The weather was fine, the breeze warm, and the peach blossoms on campus had bloomed into splendid, rosy clouds. After his tennis ss, his clothes werepletely soaked in sweat, so he had made a detour back to his dorm to shower and change before going to ss.


    The entire building was quiet. He swiped into his dorm room but had only opened the door halfway when he heard the crisp sound of ss bottles falling onto the floor.


    Xie Zhuo had been startled by the sound of the opening door and turned around. He was wearing a pomegranate dress that perfectly entuated his slender waist, but the design of the dress could not hide his t chest. A bottle of nail polish rolled by his feet, spilling a pool of scarlet onto the light flooring as striking as the awkward silence that followed.


    Sun Zinan¡¯s first reaction: Good thing I don¡¯t like women.


    He had never seen such an expression on Xie Zhuo¡¯s face. The young master who had proimed himself to be a good-for-nothing was still capable of nervousness. His eyes were filled with despair, as if he was a small white rat waiting to be dissected¡ªSun Zinan was the one holding the knife.


    Was that really necessary? He wondered to himself. I won¡¯t do anything to you just because you¡¯re wearing a woman¡¯s dress.


    He closed the door expressionlessly. As he took a change of clothes from his closet, he said to the dazed Xie Zhuo, ¡°Stop spacing out. Hurry up and wipe the floor¡ªit won¡¯t be easy to clean up when it¡¯s dry. While you¡¯re at it, open the window. The smell is too much.¡±


    Xie Zhuo, ¡°...¡±


    His mind waspletely nk,pletely losing the ability to think. He could only follow Sun Zinan¡¯s directions and obediently wiped the floor clean. When Sun Zinan came out of the bathroom, he found Xie Zhuo sitting at the table with his head bowed, his clothes unchanged. The wind blew in from the window.


    Despite the fact that temperatures were rising again, it was still early spring and Sun Zinan was afraid he¡¯d freeze to death. He could only walk over to the window and close it again. ¡°Aren¡¯t you cold?¡± He looked down at the floor and said with a frown, ¡°The cracks between the floorboards aren¡¯t clean...forget it, let¡¯s have the cleaning auntie do it tomorrow.¡±


    Xie Zhuo sat there, transfixed for a moment, then said off-topically, ¡°Are you a Virgo?¡±


    Sun Zinan said, ¡°Yes.¡±


    Only Virgos could do something like this!


    ¡°Then...¡± Xie Zhuo worried anxiously for a while, and finally gathered his courage to say with difficulty, ¡°If you feel that...it¡¯s disgusting, I can change rooms...¡±


    Sun Zinan rearranged the things on the table for a moment, pondering. ¡°I don¡¯t. As long as you agree that you won¡¯t leave nail polish all over the floor in the future and open the window to air it out immediately, and keep good hygiene, then you don¡¯t have to change rooms.¡±


    He spoke with absolute sincerity. To a mysophobic virgin, the daily habits of someone like Xie Zhuo, who didn¡¯t like to exercise and sweated easily without moving, were definitely not desirable. Besides, it wasn¡¯t like wearing dresses was a sin; it was better than wandering around naked every day.


    ¡°Won¡¯t you mind?¡± He asked in a panic. ¡°Living with a pervert...¡±


    Sun Zinan frowned deeply. Xie Zhuo felt like he was watching a sanitary inspection.


    ¡°You really should study more,¡± Sun Zinan said. ¡°Even if you dress like a lunatic, that¡¯s still your choice. If this will get you called a pervert, then there won¡¯t be many normal people under the heavens.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have any opinions about what you wear. Your hobby has nothing to do with me, so why would I have any right to judge? Likewise, no one has the right to force you to only wear men¡¯s clothing and not women¡¯s clothing.¡± He picked his backpack up from the desk and turned to leave. ¡°That¡¯s all. I¡¯m going to ss.¡±


    The heavy wooden door clicked shut¡ªthe soundproof walls prevented him from even hearing Sun Zinan¡¯s footsteps. The room was silent, leaving only his quiet sobs.


    Xie Zhuo wiped his face. He found that at some point, his entire face had be covered in tears.


    In his despair in the darkest parts of his heart¡¯s abyss, when he was prepared to lose his reputation, this normally cold, unsociable roommate showed an uncharacteristic tolerance. He had even reassured his anxiety with just a few words, creating a firm, unchallenged respect, and lightly pulled him back to the ground.


    Xie Zhuo had a good cry in his soundproof room. After crying, he washed the makeup off his face, changed into his school uniform, and walked into the ssroom during the evening self-study.


    Of course, the Sun Zinan in the ssroom didn¡¯t even bother lifting an eyelid towards him.


    After that, Xie Zhuo unterally dered that they were good friends on the grounds that they had a shared secret. On the other hand, Sun Zinan felt like Xie Zhuo was being very unreasonable, as if this small trifle could break through his reserved nature. Being friends with a roommate he never spoke with could really show how cheap his friendship was.


    But he didn¡¯t reject Xie Zhuo.


    After all, he had heard the bawling from outside the door. With his moral integrity, if he refused this friendship, he would probably go jump off a building.


    Later on, Xie Zhuo changed his idle habits and fervently worked hard. He went on to attend a good university, and the two of them kept in touch when Sun Zinan went abroad. The day he returned, Xie Zhuo had insisted picking him up in person, so the Sun Zinan who had been experiencing hardships abroad was met with the biggest shock of all time¡ªhe could not have imagined that the beautiful, long-haired and graceful sister in front of him was actually his once t-chested and rebellious high school ssmate.


    To this day, the two of them were still good friends. Sun Zinan jumped through the hoops to be a talented, sessful young man, while Xie Zhuo, with his father¡¯s help, opened up a bar and dressed as a woman all day. Fortunately, he wasn¡¯t the type of person to be easily taken advantage of. He had spent these years among all sorts of customers and was wise in the ways of the world. He had set aside his hidden scars and found the correct path to take in the world.


    So even though Xie Zhuo didn¡¯t seem too reliable, Sun Zinan was still willing to talk to him about his troubles.


    ¡°The old man wants me to go on a blind date.¡± He gently shook the cup of hot water, pretending he didn¡¯t care as he said, ¡°With a guy.¡±

 Chapter 5 - I Dont Want to be Friends with Virgos

    <h4>Chapter 5 - I Don¡¯t Want to be Friends with Virgos</h4>


    During the naive, muddleheaded days of his childhood, Xie Zhuo had definitely suspected that Sun Zinan¡¯s tolerance and respect for him had a special connotation to it. He suspected it was due to a ¡®crush.¡¯


    In a sense, Xie Zhuo was exceedingly prone to a one-track way of thinking, and even had a sincerely difficult time worrying over this, imagining scenarios and nning out what he should do if Sun Zinan were ever to confess to him. Although he enjoyed wearing dresses, he didn¡¯t actually consider himself female. He especially did not want to offer his cherry to be popped¡ªeven if Sun Zinan was the most important friend in his life.


    So for a time, Xie Zhuo incessantly hinted ¡°I like women¡± and ¡°I am a straight man,¡± until Sun Zinan politely and euphemistically told him, ¡°What¡¯s the difference between liking you and a lunatic? Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m not that blind. I wouldn¡¯t do something that foolish.¡±


    Xie Zhuo still remembers how disgruntled he had been. ¡°Then what do you like, fairies?¡±


    Sun Zinan pondered for a while, then said, ¡°I don¡¯t know, but not lunatics.¡±


    The times had changed, and the once ridiculed, t-chested youth was now ascivious butterfly, but Sun Zinan, who had long since been bent, was forced onto the path of blind dating. The wheels of fortune had reversed, and the ways of the world had be unpredictable.


    ¡°Hahahahahahaha!¡± Xie Zhuo¡¯s inner heart was filled with the joy of revenge, and he even wanted to stand up and apud. ¡°Who knew you¡¯de to this day!¡±


    Sun Zinan stared at him mutely.


    ¡°Be content with it, at least it¡¯s a man.¡± Xie Zhuo was very cheerful. ¡°I thought you would live the rest of your life with this lunatic.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    Sun Zinan set his cup down, ready to pay and leave.


    Xie Zhuo hurriedly pulled him back. ¡°Sulking isn¡¯t fun. Sit down. Give your brother some details first. Which fairy are you meeting?¡±


    At this moment, the alcohol hit him, and Sun Zinan felt as if both his strength and reason had turned to pulp. He hadpletely lost the ability to hide his wounds, or maybe he had decided to be hopelessly reckless, and directly confessed, ¡°It¡¯s the son of my father¡¯s friend. Hisst name is Tang, name is Tang Kai. A professor at Tianhai University.¡±


    Xie Zhuo¡¯s eyes twitched, his sharp ck fingernails twirling at his hair. ¡°The Kai in kai shu, handsome, and proud to heaven. Is that him?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°En. You know him?¡±


    ¡°Not only do I know him!¡± Xie Zhuo pped Sun Zinan¡¯s thigh and said excitedly, ¡°He¡¯s rted to my dad¡¯s side of the family! Tang Kai¡¯s mother is my dad¡¯s aunt; the two of us are a generation apart. I have to call him uncle...¡±


    Sun Zinan tried to untangle thisplicated family tree for a while until his head hurt, but finally couldn¡¯t keep fromughing. He squinted his drunken eyes. ¡°So if this works out, I¡¯ll have to give you New Year¡¯s money in the future, right?¡±


    His eyes gleamed with waves of light, revealing a rare gentle, lucid look, like a stream of autumn water, stained with the beauty of intoxication. Just like the saying that wine does not make people drunk, people make themselves drunk. One could say he was cold and unfeeling, but he wasn¡¯t. For a moment, even Xie Zhuo couldn¡¯t help but be moved, not due to lust, but the pure human perception of beauty.


    Speaking of which, with Sun Zinan¡¯s looks, it was really inconceivable that he hadn¡¯t found a partner yet.


    ¡°Get out, is being called uncle by a group of young men not enough? I¡¯ve met Tang Kai before; his entire being resounds Asperger syndrome. Why would this type of person need a blind date? Spending his life with petri dishes should be enough for him.¡±


    ¡°Who knows. He might not agree. It¡¯s best if he doesn¡¯t agree.¡± Sun Zinan was a little sleepy, so he passed his car keys and credit card over to Xie Zhuo. ¡°Help me find a driver.¡±


    Xie Zhuo casually slipped the credit card into his pocket, ying with the car keys as he said, ¡°If you need backup let me know. I¡¯m very good at acting as a white lotus.¡±


    Sun Zinan expected Tang Kai to reject the blind date, but after a few days the old man actually had Secretary Wang Tian send him the time and ns.


    Wang Tian was Sun Ying¡¯s close confidant; Sun Zinan had to treat him with the same level of respect as his own father. Fortunately, Secretary Wang was a very understanding and thoughtful person&#k2014;not only did he make the restaurant reservation for him, he also sent him a small folder of information on Tang Kai.


    Sun Zinan mindlessly flipped through it, and was stunned by the ID photo. Although Tang Kai was a bastard, his looks could really make one speechless. His family circumstances were notplicated; his parents were both present and worked as government officials. Tang Kai himself had been outstanding since childhood. His resume was listed very clearly; he had even won first ce in a roboticspetition as a child.


    The resume was like the person, clean to the point of moral virtuosity. At a nce one could tell he had nevere across many setbacks, smoothly growing up into a talented youth.


    Sun Zinan dropped the stack of data onto the table, thinking to himself, how boring.


    The date was at a garden restaurant. Its furnishings were from the Republic era, and the dimly litmps at night created a quiet atmosphere, suitable for private conversation.


    Sun Zinan arrived a little early; Tang Kai was led in by a waiter after he began reading the menu. The two had already met before, so there was no need for introductions. Their gazes met for a moment, then withdrew.


    Tang Kai said, ¡°I was held up by students asking questions after ss. I¡¯m sorry foringte.¡±


    ¡°No need.¡± Sun Zinan smiled and passed the menu to him. ¡°I came too early.¡±


    Although Tang Kai had rushed over after ss, he was still dressed impably in a suit without a single strand out of ce. His tall stature and mature, schrly temperament was a pleasant sight when he did not speak, but the moment Sun Zinan thought of his sharp tongue and acrid ¡®cornstalks and kelp¡¯ speech, his heart was pervaded with a lingering fear. This spiked mace had a rose in full bloom; no matter how beautiful the rose, he still had no interest in picking it.


    ¡°You drove here?¡± Sun Zinan asked him politely. Tang Kai nodded, then motioned to the waiter. ¡°I don¡¯t want red wine.¡±


    The food was served after a while. The waiter poured water for them, set the table, and retreated quietly.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t think Professor Tang would actuallye,¡± Sun Zinan said. ¡°Thanks for meeting with me.¡±


    Tang Kai replied, ¡°Only because of my father¡¯s request.¡±


    Sun Zinan¡¯s eyes curved slightly along with his lips, and he said tly, ¡°I personally wanted to see Professor Tang again. Whether it was due to our family arrangements or because of work.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°Do I have to say important things three times? The patent is not for sale.¡±


    Sun Zinan couldn¡¯t help butugh. Tang Kai looked at him mildly, his gaze neither strong nor aggressive, but the concentration was veryforting.


    Sun Zinan continued, with the traces of a smile he had not yet retracted, ¡°What I meant was, there might be chances of cooperation in the future, so we should first start out being friends.¡±


    The gathering of darkness hung deeply, and the night breeze blew gently, sending the warm breath of a spring evening mingled with the faint scent of wood. The dim yellow lights were as heavy as wine, and each murmur seemed to have the hint of secret meaning.


    Tang Kai¡¯s line of sight moved from the rose by the windowsill to the small candle in the ss, before finallynding on Sun Zinan. His body exuded an indescribable aura of sophistication yet approachability, but he always kept a polite distance. He was mature and not wily, always giving the impression that he was very reliable and could solve difficult problems without breaking a sweat. This was a unique gift given to him through experience, giving him a steady bearing beyond his years mixed with the liveliness of his youth.


    The young unmarried Professor Tang grumbled to himself: he¡¯s trying to coax me like I¡¯m a little girl; sounds like he¡¯s a practiced salesman.


    He asked, ¡°Mr. Sun, what¡¯s your star sign?¡±


    ¡°Virgo,¡± Sun Zinan responded. ¡°What about it?¡±


    Tang Kai revealed a ¡®that¡¯s why¡¯ expression. ¡°What a pity, I¡¯m not used to being friends with Virgos.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°Why?¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°Because Virgos have too many things going on and their expectations are too high. They¡¯re mysophobic and have obsessivepulsive disorder. It¡¯s hard to get along with them.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    He was almost angered to the point ofughing. ¡°Professor Tang, looks like your school¡¯s scientific teachings are not very scientific. You¡¯re such a well-known professor, why do you believe in such superstitions?¡±


    Tang Kai responded, ¡°It¡¯s the reality of it.¡±


    ¡°Your way of thinking can¡¯t evenpare to that of a high school student. Aren¡¯t Western superstitions still superstitions?¡± Sun Zinan questioned, ¡°Professor Tang, are you wearing a fortune bracelet under your suit jacket?¡±


    Without waiting for Tang Kai to deny it, he added, ¡°Besides, speaking of OCD, why do I feel like you have it more severely than I do?¡±


    Tang Kai lowered his head, following Sun Zinan¡¯s gaze towards his own yet-to-be-collected dinner te. He was met with the sight of all the side dishes on his te arranged neatly by type and size. Even the scraps meant for the trash were put in line. If he denied it, there would be no such thing as OCD in this world.


    Tang Kai, ¡°...¡±


    Tang Kai had been silenced by Sun Zinan¡¯s canon-like words. Sun Zinan sipped at his water, observing Tang Kai¡¯s angry frown in satisfaction. Feeling like he had teased the other enough, he said leisurely, ¡°Professor Tang, it¡¯s not good to be picky with your food.¡±


    Tang Kai was about to foam at the mouth from rage. His face was just like one of a female protagonist from an idol drama, screaming out ¡®not your business.¡¯


    Sun Zinan kept going. ¡°But your contradictions are very cute.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    Tang Kai¡¯s reaction was too slow and he finally realized he was being teased. His expression was stifled, revealing a mysterious taste to it. The man sitting across from him was youthful and handsome, his beautiful double-lidded eyes holding the hint of a smile, brighter than the reflection of light. His gaze made even the air warm and soft.


    He clearly knew he was prejudiced against this man, but at the same time didn¡¯t want to admit it. But even with his preconceived and criticizing attitude, he still couldn¡¯t bring himself to dislike Sun Zinan.


    Tang Kai lowered his eyes and finally rxed his bearing. He raised the corners of his lips slightly.


    ¡°Thanks.¡± He said smoothly, ¡°You¡¯re also very cute.¡±


    This was toothache-inducing. Sun Zinan let out a breath of cold air.


    Two adult men frantically praising each other for being cute at a blind date ¨C this was indeed the prominence of society.


    He had originally just wanted to avoid an awkward silence, so had faced Tang Kai in a pleasant manner. He hadn¡¯t thought this guy would react better to soft persuasion than force. Calling him cute had immediately thawed out his past grudges; the sour face he had put on all night immediately basked in sunlight, as if he was a little too easy to coax.


    Perhaps his previous sarcastic countenance was just a defense mechanism and the spiked mace¡¯s inner self was actually a pure and shy youth?


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t mind maces, butpared to the barbed jabs at each other, he still preferred the smooth, well-behaved Tang Kai¡ªhe wasn¡¯t a masochist.


    The mace withdrew its sharp spikes, leaving just the rose. Thetter half of this dinner became harmonious and lovely. When the two of them finished eating and were about to leave, Sun Zinan took the initiative to ask, ¡°I don¡¯t have your WeChat, why don¡¯t we add each other? We can hit each other upter.¡±


    Tang Kai nodded, taking his phone out readily and inputting the lockscreen password. Sun Zinan sent him a friend request and was about to change the requestment, when he caught a glimpse of Tang Kai¡¯s WeChat name. His gaze hardened in a sh.


    A familiar double-helix structure, a familiar ID¡ª


    DONKI.


    Tang Kai¡¯s phone vibrated and he tapped on the ¡®new friend¡¯ notification. The other party¡¯s ID was ¡®North.¡¯


    Professor Tang was a scientist of excellent memory, and while Sun Zinan had an average memory, he held onto grudges bitterly.


    Quick as lightning, the two men both recalled a certain memory. Tang Kai raised his brows in surprise, immediately looking up to stare doggedly at Sun Zinan.


    The smile on Sun Zinan¡¯s face had disappeared.


    He put his cell phone back on the table. ¡°Sorry, I take back my earlier words.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°En?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°I don¡¯t think we should start from being friends.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°Why?¡±


    Sun Zinan responded cordially, ¡°I don¡¯t want to be friends with childish people.¡±

 Chapter 6 - Hes My Old Uncle

    <h4>Chapter 6 - He¡¯s My Old Uncle</h4>


    ¡°What happened after?¡±


    A weekendter, Xie Zhuo and Sun Zinan were sitting at the bar counter, a cup of goji berry tea ced in front of each person. They chatted idly in the spring breeze.


    ¡°Nothing happened after, what did you want to happen?¡± Sun Zinan said, ¡°With Tang Kai¡¯s prudishness, after his fake decency has been exposed, he doesn¡¯t have the face to look for me.¡±


    Xie Zhuo looked at him doubtfully. ¡°Really? Howe your expression looks so ted? Looks like you like this prudishness a lot.¡±


    Sun Zinan denied vehemently, ¡°No, I don¡¯t.¡±


    Xie Zhuo had been his friend for many years andpletely understood Sun Zinan¡¯s personality. This guy had been acting mature since childhood, and became even more cautious in his behavior after bing an adult. He almost never did anything improper. He was especially tolerant towards the ¡®heretical¡¯ yet favored those who were both mature and intelligent but could keep their own innate independence.


    Listening to Sun Zinan¡¯s ambiguous words, Xie Zhuo realized something¡ªhe had teased Tang Kai so much the other day. If he didn¡¯t think the other party was cute, why would he engage in such familiar teasing? But Sun Zinan himself hadn¡¯t realized it.


    ¡°Have you guys contacted each other?¡± Xie Zhuo unrestrainedly chugged away half his goji berry tea. ¡°Didn¡¯t you guys add each other on WeChat?¡±


    The WeChat had been added, but Sun Zinan didn¡¯t like posting to his moments. Tang Kai¡¯s moments werepletelyposed of academic articles and conference notices, so Sun Zinan hadn¡¯t had the patience to look through all of them.


    Xie Zhuo felt pity for him. ¡°If you don¡¯t follow his moments, then do you guys chat?¡±


    Sun Zinan opened up his chatroom to show him. The most recent record was fromst night, at one thirty in the morning. Tang Kai had sent Sun Zinan the message ¡®started off with four bombs in hand, how to lose [Web Link],¡¯ and Sun Zinan¡¯s reply was ¡®sorry, can do whatever I want with good cards [Web Link].¡¯


    Xie Zhuo, ¡°...¡±


    Bloodily battling until daybreak¡ªthis was probably the friendship of men.


    ¡°So flirty.¡± Xie Zhuo shook his head as he sighed. ¡°You guys match each other like a pot lid to a pot. I think he¡¯s the one, stop struggling.¡±


    It was unclear what Sun Zinan was thinking about as his mind dazedly wandered off. ¡°Let¡¯s just take this one step at a time.¡±


    Xie Zhuo could clearly notice that his mood had suddenly dropped, which was a little strange, but he didn¡¯t show any reaction to the change due to his well-versed understanding of Sun Zinan. He rolled his eyes and said, ¡°Anyways we all know each other. I¡¯ll hold a meetup sometime and create an opportunity for you two to interact for a while. I¡¯ll guard for you so we can see if it¡¯s a good match or not.¡±


    Sun Zinan raised his brows, but before he could say anything, Xie Zhuo said hurriedly, ¡°I know your rules. I won¡¯t y tricks to test him out. Anyways he¡¯s my old uncle, I can¡¯t do that to him. It¡¯s just a meetup with friends, don¡¯t worry. You just have to show up on time. Then it¡¯s settled!¡±


    ¡°All right.¡± Sun Zinan waved his hand, not taking the arrangements too seriously. ¡°Tang Kai isn¡¯t in our league, so don¡¯t bring any weird people.¡±


    ¡°What are you saying, old aunt,¡± Xie Zhuo said in a delicate and coquettish voice, ¡°Am I that kind of person?¡±


    Sun Zinan fled from his niece in disgust.


    On the way back, he sent a text to Tang Kai: &#k2018;Professor Tang, are you free tomorrow?¡¯


    Tang Kai¡¯s reply was very fast. &#k2018;I am.¡¯


    He responded to whatever he asked, but didn¡¯t ask what he wanted to do. Sun Zinan found that very interesting, and deleted the message he had already typed out, changing it to: &#k2018;I want to treat you to a meal, will youe? It won¡¯t take up too much of your time.¡¯


    The Tang Kai who was reading a paper in his study clutched his phone tightly, frowning and pursing his lips as he wavered back and forth before finally replying dryly, ¡®Sure.¡¯


    The ¡®currently typing¡¯ notification showed up from Sun Zinan, and a response came after a while: ¡®Okay, I¡¯ll send you the time and ceter. It¡¯s a little far from your house. Can I pick you up on the way?¡¯


    Tang Kai¡¯s brain subconsciously projected the image from that night, the man¡¯s gentle and yful tone under the warm, cascading light, saying, ¡°It¡¯s not good to be picky with your food, but your contradictions are very cute.¡±


    Through the text on the phone screen, he could imagine Sun Zinan¡¯s tone when he said that, his voice thoughtful and courteous. It was difficult to imagine that he was the type of easily-amused man who would throw rotten tomatoes in games. He insisted onpeting with him in Fight the Landlord every night.


    It was even more difficult to imagine that he actually followed along with this dumb man.


    Tang Kai¡¯s parents had always given him a lot of freedom; they would give him advice during the major turning points of his life, but never forced him to do anything. This blind date was also because Tang Zhenhua had noticed his son was almost thirty but still single. He gave him this opportunity, but Tang Kai¡¯s parents still respected his decision on whether he wanted to marry and start a family or remain single for the rest of his life.


    Tang Kai was actually very clear with himself that the generous atmosphere of his family had put him in an ivory tower, protecting him from much of the world¡¯s trials and tribtions. He had never been tempered by the furnace of society, so it wasn¡¯t an exaggeration to say he ¡®didn¡¯t know the suffering of the people.¡¯ This coddled life was good for his scientific research, but not his private affairs. His interpersonal rtionships were simple and pure; his friends were in the same profession, and although he was very involved in his teaching, he kept an appropriate distance from his students. He basically had no other social interactions.


    It wasn¡¯t as if no one had ever tried to pluck this flower, but they had all failed in the end. Dating him might not even be better than dating paramecium. Professor Tang didn¡¯t know how to cook and ate his daily three meals at the school cafeteria. The housework was left to a housekeeper¡ªhe spent very little time at home and sometimes stayed overnight in theb. What was the point of looking like a heavenly immortal if this kind of man couldn¡¯t even take care of himself? Could his face feed anyone?


    To say it a little more harshly, if his research tools and lover both fell into the water, it wasn¡¯t clear which he would save first.


    The fact that Sun Zinan continued to want to go on dates with him was a bit of a mystery to Tang Kai.


    No matter how he looked at it, he was not Sun Zinan¡¯s type. But on second thought, he wasn¡¯t actually sure if he was his type or not, because he hadn¡¯t even figured out what kind of person Sun Zinan was.


    He texted back, ¡®okay.¡¯


    The mood of the second meeting was noticeably better; the warm spring weather had reached its peak liveliness. One of them wore a white shirt, the other blue, and the two of them looked great together. Sun Zinan was wearing a pair of sunsses. He drove Tang Kai to a home-style cuisine restaurant hidden within a Siheyuan.


    This ce specialized in Guanfu cuisine that had been passed down through generations and only took reservations. They only served three tables a day, making the dining experience even more private than booking a private room. There was an antique verandah railing outside. In the midst of the parterre there was a crabapple tree, the drifting blossoms like a blushing rainfall. From time to time, butterflies perched by the windows and birds chirped. The scenery was beautiful to the point of enchanting.


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t eat very much. He drank tea and ate as he leisurely chatted with Tang Kai.


    ¡°How is it? Do you like the food this time?¡±


    Even though Tang Kai ate cafeteria food every day, his taste buds were not dead. This table of expensive and exquisite dishes definitely pleased his pte, but for some reason everything around him, including Sun Zinan¡¯s arrangements, gave him a sense of ¡®pretentiousness.¡¯ He already thought he was bad enough at realistic living habits, but Sun Zinan was even worse.


    A jade te full of delicacies was obviously excellent, but he would rather eat a smokey, fire-filled homely meal with Sun Zinan.


    ¡°It¡¯s very good,¡± Tang Kai said. ¡°You¡¯re too generous.¡±


    Sun Zinan smiled as he shook his head, rejecting his words. He raised the teapot to pour him a cup of tea.


    Tang Kai thanked him and epted the cup, but didn¡¯t drink. He went straight to the point. ¡°Mr. Sun, you specifically made an appointment. Is there anything you have to say to me?¡±


    Although he was ignorant of many worldly matters, he was still naturally a sensitive person. Sun Zinan stared at him deeply, and an idea suddenly sprang up¡ª


    The ferociousness of this guy from the first meeting was definitely an act.


    ¡°En,¡± he replied candidly. ¡°I wanted to confirm something with you. Professor Tang, do you think we¡¯re suitable for marriage?¡±


    Tang Kai misunderstood his meaning, and quickly asked, ¡°You¡¯re not satisfied with me?¡±


    Sun Zinan nked, then waved his hand and smiled. ¡°That¡¯s not what I mean. I wanted to ask if you were satisfied with me and if you wanted to get married.¡±


    Tang Kai was quite stunned, and almost thought he had heard wrong, or that Sun Zinan was joking.


    In his understanding ofmon sense, marriage shouldn¡¯t be decided in such a hasty and thoughtless manner.


    If Professor Tang had read through his PhD students¡¯ Kindles and tapped on the ¡®first marriage then love¡¯ genre, he would have discovered many love stories based on all sorts of legal and illegal contracts. The ssic events in those stories would have prepared him for the scene he was about to face.


    He asked in confusion, ¡°Are you in a hurry to get married?¡±


    ¡°The marriage license is just a formality, so it¡¯s not urgent.¡± Sun Zinan continued, ¡°But I want to define the rtionship as soon as possible.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°Why?¡±


    Sun Zinan nced at him, and an element of surprise could not be hidden from the depths of his eyes. He didn¡¯t wait for Tang Kai to understand and said, ¡°Professor Tang, although I don¡¯t know why you went on a blind date, our goals are the same. We should both be aiming to get married and start a family, right?¡±


    Tang Kai nodded.


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Sun Zinan leaned against the back of his chair and said mildly, ¡°My father requested that I marry you, or else I won¡¯t get a single cent of his inheritance.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°...¡±


    ¡°So, if you think I¡¯m a suitable match and don¡¯t want to date anyone else, then I hope we can upgrade our rtionship status.¡± He thought for a moment before adding, ¡°At least to prospective fianc¨¦.¡±


    Tang Kai asked incredulously, ¡°You...want to get married for your inheritance?¡±


    Sun Zinan generously asked back, ¡°What else would it be for?¡±


    He didn¡¯t miss the ¡®I just ate rat poison¡¯ expression on Tang Kai¡¯s face, and said with some amusement, ¡°Think about it¡ªmy shabby littlepany only sells health products. If I didn¡¯t rely on my family, how could we eat at this kind of restaurant today? I would only be able to treat you to a bowl of 20 yuan Mtang.¡±


    Tang Kai remained silent for a long time. It was so long that Sun Zinan began thinking he had been moved by this copper-smelling proposal, when Tang Kai suddenly said, ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°En?¡±


    ¡°If I like someone, it doesn¡¯t matter if I can only eat instant noodles with him,¡± Tang Kai said solemnly. ¡°But I won¡¯t ept using marriage as a tool for achieving goals, because the feelings of humanity can never be given a price.¡±


    Huh, he even mentioned ¡®humanity.¡¯


    Sun Zinan¡¯s expression slowly sank. ¡°Professor Tang, I appreciate your romantic idealism, but I am a very realistic person.¡±


    It happened as expected.


    The tenderness and affection from earlier evaporated like dew in the sunlight, dissipating with the wind, like waking up too quickly from a dream.


    The world had long since began facing reality, epting reality, and bing a part of reality. It was only Tang Kai who kept stepping forward, not following the rules, but also not knowing how topromise.


    The man was almost thirty but still too naive, which was why he couldn¡¯t find a partner.


    ¡°That¡¯s why the throne and wealth you are inheriting has nothing to do with me.¡± Tang Kai stood up, strongly repressing his disappointment and only coldly saying, ¡°My apologies, Mr. Sun, I¡¯m not the person you¡¯re looking for.¡±

 Chapter 7 - Spring Outing

    <h4>Chapter 7 - Spring Outing</h4>


    The meal did not end well.


    After that day, Sun Zinan didn¡¯t touch Fight the Landlord for a while, fearing he would stir up buried feelings. Tang Kai did not send him any new WeChat messages. At the end of May, Xie Zhuo exuberantly organized group ns for a barbecue at a farm resort. He called Sun Zinan, and Tang Kai¡¯s name was mentioned once more.


    ¡°Old aunt, are you there?¡± Xie Zhuo wondered out loud, ¡°I contacted Tang Kai but why didn¡¯t he sound very enthusiastic? What happened between you guys?¡±


    Sun Zinan said, ¡°Nothing much, he¡¯s probably carefully considering it.¡±


    In fact, he hadn¡¯t been too eager to tell the full story to Tang Kai, and was willing to keep avoiding the issue of his inheritance. The reason wasn¡¯t important; the result was. As the saying went, it was easier to just live in mediocrity than to leave a rtionship. As long as they ended up together and could share the inheritance between the two of them, how important would his original concealment even be?


    But Sun Zinan had the habit of airing the ugly details first. Even if the other party was displeased, it was better than revealing themter on and creating a rift between the two involved.


    He was very clear from their first meeting that Tang Kai was not the type of person who liked to be left in the dark. How could a person who was even more orderly and perfectionist than Sun Zinan endure a wed marriage?


    Sun Ying had calcted everything exactly; he was only interested in Tang Kai¡¯s family background, and wanted to use it to climb up the socialdder. But in retrospect, if the old man was currently using his inheritance to force him into a marriage with Tang Kai, if something happened to Tang Kai¡¯s family, would the old man use that as a reason to deny him his share?


    If even ¡®liking¡¯ someone had to be manipted, then one might as well be even more heartless, in case others tried to obtain payback.


    He himself didn¡¯t have any choice, so he might as well not also drag Tang Kai into the fire.


    ¡°If he doesn¡¯t want to then forget it.¡± Sun Zinan pinched at his nose. ¡°Lately I¡¯ve also...¡±


    He hadn¡¯t finished his excuse before Xie Zhuo cut in on the other end of the line, ¡°No, he¡¯s willing toe. What were you saying?¡±


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Sun Zinan¡¯s throat caught and he hesitated for a moment. ¡°I got it, I¡¯ll be there on time.¡±


    Xie Zhuo was very eager for action. ¡°Good, I¡¯ve already made all the arrangements. I¡¯ll give you a lifetime of memories.¡±


    Sun Zinan suddenly had a bad feeling.


    The bad feeling became reality as he stood beneath the mountain. Director Sun, who had been expecting a pleasant chat and rxed hangout, stared up at the winding steps that stretched beyond his sight. He cursed inwardly.


    Hiking up a mountain. This Xie Zhuo kid could really do a lot!


    Xie Zhuo was wearing a light gray tracksuit and a white baseball cap. His long hair was tied into a ponytail behind him and he held a small red g in his hand, looking exactly like a tour guide. ¡°You can all go by yourselves but let¡¯s try and help each other out. Walk straight along the road. The goal is the top of the mountain. Let¡¯s go!¡±


    Everyoneughed cheerfully as they went through their bags and prepared themselves to climb the mountain.


    Sun Zinan coughed and raised his hand. ¡°Where are we eating? Can I drive up?¡±


    Xie Zhuo, ¡°Ge, don¡¯tin. Did you think we came here for driving school? Be a part of the group. Hurry, Professor Tang is waiting for you.¡±


    Sun Zinan looked back and found Tang Kai standing behind him, wearing a white t-shirt, ck track pants, sunsses, and a waterproof hiking bag. This outfit made him look much younger. The muscles that were usually hidden by a suit jacket were revealed; he looked quite strong.


    But the moment he turned his head around, Tang Kai walked off to climb the mountain by himself without giving him a single nce.


    This made Sun Zinan foggy with confusion¡ªhe thought to himself, was Tang Kai just passing by or did he have something to say to him?


    He was unwilling in ten thousand ways, but he was here and had no choice but to sigh and resign himself to his fate.


    Although Sun Zinan was quite slim, he had a good figure. He wasn¡¯t particrly fond of exercising and ying tennis or golf was already his limit. This time, he hadn¡¯t known what Xie Zhuo nned. Although he had changed into athletic clothing, he was reluctant to use it for hiking up a mountain. After taking a few steps, he had to stop because he was breathing too heavily.


    The May sunlight brought along a scorching heat. A short-haired girl caught up from behind, greeting him with a smile. ¡°Tired?¡±


    Sun Zinan remembered she was a painter or some kind of artist. Either way, she was on good terms with Xie Zhuo, so he nodded leisurely and maintained a friendly, open manner. ¡°I haven¡¯t hiked in a long time. Need to get used to it first.¡±


    Suddenly a shadow fell over his head. Tang Kai¡¯s cold face appeared and he pressed a cap over Sun Zinan¡¯s head, pulling it down without mercy. ¡°Have you rested enough? You haven¡¯t even walked a third of the way.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    The girlughed and said, ¡°Then I¡¯ll go first. See you at the top.¡±


    Sun Zinan waved his hand. For some reason, Tang Kai seemed a little upset. His tone was awkward. ¡°Was that your new partner?¡±


    Sun Zinan felt like a pufferfish had appeared in front of him. As he walked up the stairs, he asked, ¡°Where did this new partnere from? This isn¡¯t Fight the Landlord.¡±


    Tang Kai heard his denial, but still didn¡¯t seem very happy. Sun Zinan really was a poisonous person; his previous gentle smile and words could make a person dizzy, but his current aloofness and avoidance were abominable.


    Sun Zinan forced himself to continue walking for a while. When he saw that Tang Kai was still following by his side without any indication of leaving, he couldn¡¯t help but wonder out loud, ¡°Professor Tang, are you still able to keep climbing?¡±


    Tang Kai looked at him contemptuously.


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    ¡°There are eight people in total, and six of them are ahead of us, including two women,¡± Tang Kai said unfeelingly. ¡°I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ll get lost halfway.¡±


    Sun Zinan nked, thenughed. ¡°Thank you very much.¡±


    He took a few breaths, feeling like this mountain path had already surpassed half a year¡¯s worth of exercise. Hence, he said stingily to Tang Kai, ¡°Don¡¯t wait for me. A grown-up like me won¡¯t get lost. You go first, I¡¯ll walk slowly.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°I¡¯ll go up first and you¡¯ll go down the mountain?¡±


    Although he didn¡¯t say it, the two lenses of his sses reflected ¡®you weakling.¡¯


    Sun Zinan felt nothing in the face of this directed attack; all he could think about at the moment was finding a ce to rest. He elegantly turned around and waved behind him. ¡°Have a nice day...ai, talk about it, don¡¯t get physical!¡±


    Tang Kai stood on a step above him. He reached his hand out and grasped his shoulder, holding Sun Zinan firmly in ce.


    Sun Zinan inwardly rejoiced at his good fortune, but had to repress his excitement for a while before turning back around. ¡°Professor Tang, if you want to reach the top then just climb by yourself. Don¡¯t drag me along, okay? This is not my hobby.¡±


    ¡°Xie Zhuo rented a ce halfway on this mountain. It¡¯s about ten or so minutes away.¡± Tang Kai sighed in resignation. ¡°You can rest there.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°How did you know?¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°Didn¡¯t you search this ce up online beforeing?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    Fuck, I was careless.


    Sunlight filtered through the trees, falling in spotlights upon the two men. Although Tang Kai¡¯s eyes were obscured by his sunsses, Sun Zinan could see the tiny beads of sweat at the corner of his temples. The bare skin of his neck and corbone glowed under the sun¡¯s rays.


    ¡°Okay.¡± He wasn¡¯t able to resist Tang Kai¡¯s goodwill and epted his fate of having to continue up the mountain. On the way, he cursed Xie Zhuo in his heart about eight hundred times.


    Halfway up the mountain was a supposed farm resort, but it was really just aplex of two-story buildings. This time, Xie Zhuo had brought everyone over for both entertainment and investigative purposes. He was nning on buying the ce and remodeling it into a trendy resort.


    There were tables and benches in the courtyard and the owner was picking vegetables by the door. When he saw that there were guests, he hurriedly sat them down and offered them water and plenty of fresh fruit.


    Sun Zinan had no intentions of getting up again after sitting down, sipping at his water like an old man, and said to Tang Kai, ¡°You can¡¯t lose me here so if you want to continue, you should be able to catch up with the rest of the group.¡±


    Tang Kai took off his sunsses and set them aside. He sped his arms. ¡°Did you hear that?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°Hear what?¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°The sound of you being a ke.¡±


    Sun Zinan did not rise to his provocation. ¡°This is called acting ording to one¡¯s own abilities.¡±


    ¡°But I rememberst time you said you were a realistic person.¡± Tang Kai suddenly opened fire without warning. ¡°Hiking up a mountain is nowhere asfortable as sitting in the shade, that¡¯s reality. Why don¡¯t you want me to ept reality this time?¡±


    ¡°I never...¡± Sun Zinan spoke halfway then suddenly shut his mouth, realizing he had almost revealed his true thoughts. He looked away, pretending he didn¡¯t understand the question. ¡°Professor Tang looks like the type of person who enjoys scaling heights, so why should I stop you from going? What are you waiting for, please go ahead.¡±


    As he was talking, the phone in his pocket suddenly began vibrating. Sun Zinan answered grumpily, ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    Xie Zhuo, ¡°Aunt, where are you? Did you meet Tang Kai?¡±


    Sun Zinan nced at Tang Kai. ¡°We¡¯re at the courtyard halfway up the mountain. Did you guys reach the top?¡±


    ¡°We did!¡± Xie Zhuo cried bitterly, ¡°How could the two of you sneak off? Come up here!¡±


    ¡°Noting.¡± Sun Zinan refused and pushed the me onto Tang Kai without any shame. ¡°Professor Tang said he was tired and too old to climb up. The two of us aren¡¯t going up, we¡¯ll wait here for you guys. That¡¯s all, I¡¯m hanging up.¡±


    Xie Zhuo, ¡°...¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°...¡±


    Tang Kai endured for as long as he could before finally sumbing to his inner desires. He reached his hand out and lightly tapped at the tips of Sun Zinan¡¯s hat. ¡°Why are you so childish?¡±


    Towards noon, Xie Zhuo came down the mountain with the rest of the group, only to witness two people sitting in the best seats under the shade. Each person was holding a phone, the sounds of ¡®match¡¯ and ¡®don¡¯t want it¡¯ resounding intermittently. Sun Zinan was even ying and trash-talking at the same time. ¡°Where did this pair of eightse from...Professor Tang, can you shut off the sound effects? It¡¯s distracting me.¡±


    mes began burning under Xie Zhuo¡¯s eyelids. He pointed at Sun Zinan and scolded, ¡°Did I invite the two of you toe y Fight the Landlord? There are so many unwashed vegetables. If you¡¯re not going to hike then go help out! All you do every day is sit there and y games! Can Huanle Dou be food for you!?¡±


    Sun Zinan yed thest card in his hand, a colored joker, and said slowly, ¡°Stop nagging. You¡¯re not even thirty, why are you entering menopause so early? You have to be calmer, learn from Professor Tang. This morning he has already lost over a million and has deranked from the top rank to high rank, but he¡¯s still at peace.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    Xie Zhuo was so angry he couldn¡¯t even speak properly, so he could only turn his re to Tang Kai, hoping hisrade would use justice to purge the harm.


    Unexpectedly, Professor Tang waspletely unaffected by the situation. He calmly put his phone back into his pocket and said pleasantly to Sun Zinan, ¡°Let¡¯s go help.¡±


    Xie Zhuo, ¡°En???¡±


    What happened while he was gone this morning? Did Sun Zinan curse him with a voodoo doll? No wonder he had lost more than a million Huanle Dou in Fight the Landlord.

 Chapter 8 - Rotten Tomato Team

    <h4>Chapter 8 - Rotten Tomato Team</h4>


    ording to Xie Zhuo¡¯s ns, they were supposed to hike in the morning, have a farm-fresh meal at noon, barbecue in the evening, then spend a beautiful night in nature far away from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. They would watch the sunrise the second day, then each head back to their own homes to continue working overtime and pulling all-nighters until they turned bald.


    The concept was wonderful, but reality was cruel. The owner of the farm resort made lunch for them and everyone ate with satisfaction. However, the owner was not there at night and everyone tried cooking on their own. Immediately, numerous situations popped up: they didn¡¯t know how to start the fire, didn¡¯t know how to chop vegetables, forgot to grease the grill, didn¡¯t know if the meat was cooked, a burnt batch...


    The third time white smoke drifted over from Tang Kai¡¯s side, causing everyone to tear up, an investment manager named Xiang Bo finally couldn¡¯t resist asking, ¡°Professor Tang, I remember you¡¯re a biologist. Isn¡¯t this the same as an experiment? Why is it always burning on your side?¡±


    Kitchen killer Professor Tang stared at the nuclear reactor-like lump of scorched ckness, pursed his lips, and replied calmly, ¡°There¡¯s no rtion. Although I study living things, I haven¡¯t learned how to cook them.¡±


    A lowugh came from behind.


    Sun Zinan happened to hear this brilliant remark as he came over to grab the barbecue sauce. He was so amused he couldn¡¯t help butugh, and took his phone out to take a picture of the grill. He then draped an arm over Tang Kai¡¯s shoulder and led him away. ¡°Don¡¯t ruin it anymore,e with me.¡±


    As Tang Kai was pulled to the other grill in confusion, he felt his phone vibrate in his pocket. Sun Zinan had sent the picture to him over WeChat. As he rolled his sleeves up, he said, ¡°If you post this to your moments and get fifty likes, I¡¯ll grill meat for you.¡±


    Xie Zhuoughed so hard he began crowing like a rooster. Tang Kai wasn¡¯t exactly angry, but he stared at Sun Zinan for a very long time before he finally gave up. ¡°Isn¡¯t fifty a bit too much?¡±


    ¡°Bargaining?¡± Sun Zinan smirked. ¡°Thirty is fine. But thirty likes is only enough for vegetables, do what you will.¡±


    He turned over the beef and chicken wings on the grill. A delicious scent slowly drifted away into the night breeze. The man who was seriously grilling was so handsome that the heavens were moved, and Professor Tang¡¯s spine immediately became weak.


    What was the use of having moral integrity? The essence of humanity was getting pped in the face.


    Half a minuteter, a new WeChat moments appeared on numerous people¡¯s screens.


    [The Picture¡¯s Secret Will Be Revealed After 50 Likes (Picture)]


    Tang Kai was pretty popr, and within ten minutes, he had received fifty likes from his friends circle and over 20ments.


    ¡®Handsome brother, what¡¯s this? New experiment materials?¡¯


    ¡®Fieldwork [like emoji]¡¯


    ¡®Xiao Tang¡¯s cooking skills still need practice. [smile emoji]¡¯


    ...


    ¡®Boss! If you¡¯ve been kidnapped blink once! [scared.jpg]¡¯ (this was his PhD student)


    After Tang Kai gave his collection of likes for Sun Zinan to inspect, he held his phone and began earnestly replying to thements. ¡®Tips from a biologist: burnt food contains carcinogens. Don¡¯t eat it, because it¡¯s not edible [smile emoji]¡¯


    Although Professor Tang¡¯s high-ss, cold image copsed overnight, he had solved a difficult problem for Sun Zinan. They sessfully kicked Xie Zhuo out of his seat and Tang Kai became a little tail following Sun Zinan everywhere. He was fed a lot and received the first bite of every newly grilled batch.


    Xie Zhuo wrung at his handkerchief in rage, but His Majesty Sun Zinan only had eyes for the beautiful fox spirit and he waspletely abandoned. He could only turn to someone else for attention.


    Although Tang Kai looked cold and unapproachable, he was actually very easy to get along with. Sun Zinan was surprised to see him so easily conquered by a meal of mediocre barbecue.


    ¡°Do you usually eat at yourpany cafeteria?¡± He asked Tang Kai. ¡°Do you not know how to cook? Don¡¯t you have a housekeeper at home?¡±


    ¡°Too much trouble. I usually don¡¯t have the time to go home and eat.¡± Tang Kai took the offered slice of roasted mushroom. ¡°The cafeteria and takeout are enough.¡±


    His life was very simple. If he was not running experiments then he was teaching ss. Home was just a ce to sleep. Either way, he was by himself. Why did the ce he lived at matter?


    Sun Zinan let out a breath and didn¡¯t say anything.


    Around nightfall, as the new moon was beginning to appear, Sun Zinan finally finished grilling therge pile of food and had time to sit down and eat. He had experienced a life today that was not meant for humans. He had originally thought he was going tofortably view scenery and have all three meals hand-fed to him. Who knew he would be tricked by Xie Zhuo into hiking in the morning, disturbed so much he couldn¡¯t take a nap in the afternoon, and had to bear the smoke and fire at night to help everyone grill meat.


    This time Tang Kai had been fed into obedience, and handed him a can of beer and arge te of steaming barbecued meat. The arrangement of the te was definitely done by someone with OCD¡ªthe meat and vegetables were separated. The pork, beef,mb, and chicken were sorted by type, and the piles were ced in order of size, forming a small pyramid of food.


    ¡°You¡¯ve worked hard,¡± he said.


    ¡°This is too much, I can¡¯t eat it all.¡± Sun Zinan smiled as he toasted him with the can of beer. ¡°How does it taste, did you enjoy it?¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°En. Thanks.¡±


    ¡°As long as you¡¯re satisfied.¡± Sun Zinan continued, ¡°I don¡¯t know if you¡¯re used to this kind of thing. If there¡¯s anything you¡¯re offended by, don¡¯t restrain yourself. Xie Zhuo invited all his trustworthy friends.¡±


    This gathering had a total of eight people, each from a different profession. They were all friends Xie Zhuo had met at his bar. Xie Zhuo and Sun Zinan were both rich second generation sons, but the rest were bar singers, painters, drivers, investment managers, and government officials. It was a novel and lively group. But within all these friends, only Sun Zinan¡¯s tone was especially smooth and natural, seemingly the leader of this group. Even though Tang Kai knew Xie Zhuo was extremely close with Sun Zinan to the point of being like brothers, he still felt a little ufortable.


    He was about to reply, when the table erupted in excitement. The two of them could only break away from their whispered conversation to listen to Xie Zhuo announce the rules of his new game.


    This game was actually a variant of Kings. It was an eight person game. They first eliminated yers through a method simr to Zheng Shang You, then switched to Fight the Landlord¡¯s rules to eliminate thest two. If the winner was the two peasants, then the final winner was determined by whoever drew the first joker in the deck. Thest winner could make any request to any one in the group, and it couldn¡¯t be refused.


    Xie Zhou qualified, ¡°You can¡¯t ask a married person to get divorced, or an unmarried person to immediately get married, but you can ask them to go on a date. Friends, let¡¯s go!¡±


    Sun Zinan was speechless. ¡°...What kind of stupid idea is this.¡±


    He turned his head around after saying that, only to realize Tang Kai had, without him noticing, rolled his sleeves up in preparation for the contest.


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    Although Professor Tang had lost more than a million Huanle Dou earlier that day, his luck turned around at night and he steadily made it to thest round. Coincidentally, the Fight the Landlord round consisted of Tang Kai, Sun Zinan, and the girl they had met on the mountain earlier in the day.


    The girl was a painter named Zhai Xiaoxi. Her cards were mediocre, but she was lucky and drew the correct cards every time. This round wasn¡¯t out of the ordinary, and she called out thendlord position without hesitation.


    Sun Zinan¡¯s cards were also not that great; he didn¡¯t have any jokers and his chance of losing was pretty high. Tang Kai looked over his own cards expressionlessly, and it was impossible to tell if they were good or bad. He only softly muttered, ¡°The rotten tomato team.¡±


    His voice was very quiet and only Sun Zinan, who was sitting close to him, heard. He lowered his head to look at his own cards and suddenly realized what Tang Kai meant.


    The first time he and Tang Kai threw rotten tomatoes at each other, the other peasant had used single cards to trick Tang Kai into wasting his jokers. At the end, he was caught off guard and attacked with four bombs. His reference to the ¡°rotten tomato team¡± told Sun Zinan precisely that he had no jokers, but did have a bomb.


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t know whether tough or cry. He thought to himself, this highly regarded Tianhai University professor who was a biologist with an excellent IQ score even had a secret code with his teammates during Fight the Landlord. Did he not think he was losing face?


    Zhai Xiaoxi wasn¡¯t used to ying cards so her strategy was very simple. She was most afraid of losing her previous setup at this point, which made it the best time to be deceived. Even though Sun Zinan quietly cursed at Tang Kai, he engaged in the psychological battle as he yed.


    His inner resolve did not settle and he distractedly ced down a few single cards that fell within Tang Kai¡¯s n. He sessfully copied the key setups from that first match they yed together.


    ¡°Aiya, I can¡¯t beat that, I really can¡¯t.¡± Zhai Xiaoxi admitted her loss when Tang Kai threw out four fives and ced herst card onto the table in defeat, before getting up to stretch. ¡°Professor Tang and Sun ge are too strong.¡±


    Sun Zinan smiled. ¡°Not really, you¡¯ll get the hang of it after ying for a while.¡±


    Xie Zhuo had finished reshuffling the cards and came over. ¡°Thest battle¡ªdrawing for jokers! Sess and failure are at stake! Anyone want to make a bet? I bet Boss Sun will win!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m good at this type of luck thing.¡± Sun Zinan raised his brows and smiled. ¡°Professor Tang, be careful.¡±


    Tang Kai¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change. ¡°You too, be careful.¡±


    Everyone else, ¡°...¡± This exchange was really damn cold.


    Tang Kai looked nk, while Sun Zinan merely smiled and didn¡¯t say anything. The two of them had textbook poker faces on. No one spoke at the table, watching the game with their breaths caught in their mouths. They could only see the two men speedily take turns choosing and flipping over the other¡¯s cards, killing intent emanating from both of them.


    At the very end, each of them had two cards in their hands. Tang Kai¡¯s finger urately brushed against Sun Zinan¡¯s three of hearts. As he drew it out, he hesitated and stopped slightly.


    He abruptly asked, ¡°If I win, will you agree to any request I make?¡±


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t expect him to suddenly ask such a question and had to seriously think about it for a moment. ¡°As long as it¡¯s not unreasonable.¡±


    ¡°Thanks.¡± Tang Kai resolutely pulled the card out and said without even looking at it, ¡°I won.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    Tang Kai had casually drawn out the pair of threes.


    He stuffed his remaining eight of spades into Sun Zinan¡¯s hand and exined, ¡°A little trick: if I ask you an irrelevant question in a tense situation, you will be caught off guard. If I had chosen a three of hearts, you would have already thought you lost and you would answer yes; if I had chosen the joker then you would think you had won and would instead answer ¡®the winner hasn¡¯t been decided yet,¡¯ right?¡±


    This bastard could really bluff. It was uncertain how high his decoding skills could go.


    Sun Zinan had beenpletely defeated.


    ¡°The final winner is Professor Tang. You can now make a request to anyone here.¡± At this moment, Xie Zhuo still remembered to cue as the host of the game. ¡°May I ask who Professor Tang is choosing?¡±


    Everyone¡¯s eyes were fixed upon Sun Zinan; the answer was obvious.


    Seeing that the excitement wasn¡¯t too disruptive, Xie Luo urged, ¡°You have to seize this opportunity!¡±


    Tang Kai nodded.


    ¡°Did you mean what you said just now?¡± He turned towards Sun Zinan.


    Sun Zinan knew he couldn¡¯t run away, but when he saw Tang Kai¡¯s scheming appearance, he suddenly felt a little nervous. All their interactions to this day were through the qualifier of a ¡®blind date.¡¯ If Tang Kai¡¯s request was to break off contact...


    Additionally, he had said too much thest time they met.


    Tang Kai said bluntly, ¡°This request might be difficult for you, but it¡¯s genuinely my most desired wish at the moment.¡±


    Sun Zinan felt like his smile was about to fall off. ¡°Go ahead.¡±


    Tang Kai said without hesitation, ¡°I want you to cook for me for a week, is that okay?¡±

 Chapter 9 - Ah! Science!

    <h4>Chapter 9 - Ah! Science!</h4>


    At this moment, Sun Zinan¡¯s only thought was: where did this obedient childe from?


    Director Sun was not an extremely rich man, but he was still a young entrepreneur. Asking for money or material objects, even if this request would invoke feelings in the future, was still far more valuable than a few ordinary meals. Did Tang Kai be an idiot from the barbecue smoke? Howe he didn¡¯t even understand something as simple as this?


    Sun Zinan took a deep breath. ¡°Are you serious? Don¡¯t joke around, think about it some more.¡±


    Tang Kai asked back, ¡°Is this an unreasonable request?¡±


    Sun Zinan was tongue-tied. Tang Kai continued, ¡°Then why won¡¯t you agree to it?¡±


    Sun Zinan wasn¡¯t sure whether to call him naive or stupid.


    Everyone was watching the two of them. Xie Zhuo poked him from under the table to remind him to stop staring off into the distance. At the same time, he said out loud, ¡°Why are you hesitating over such a small thing? Our Director Sun isn¡¯t a sore loser! Isn¡¯t it just a few meals? If he doesn¡¯t agree, I¡¯ll agree for him!¡±


    The group roared inughter.


    Sun Zinan nced at Tang Kai and found that he was still calmly looking back at him. His bodynguage was full of a silent stubbornness. In order to end this scene, he could only promise, ¡°Okay. As long as you don¡¯t mind.¡±


    Only then was Tang Kai satisfied.


    A new game began after this, but neither of the two had any interest in ying anymore. Sun Zinan purposely lost the round. When he turned around, he found Tang Kai, who had lost much earlier, leisurely leaning against his chair and staring up at the heavenly river of stars spreading across the sky.


    He felt like he should say something to him, but he didn¡¯t know what to say. As he hesitated, Xie Zhuo quietly tapped him and murmured, ¡°What happened between the two of you? Why does it feel kind of ufortable?¡±


    Sun Zinan denied it. ¡°Nothing happened.¡±


    Xie Zhou questioned, ¡°Then what were the two of you doing behind our backs this morning?¡±


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t even lift his eyes. ¡°As you saw, Fight the Landlord.¡±


    Xie Zhuo uttered an unconvinced sound. ¡°That¡¯s not right. Auntie, what can¡¯t you tell me?¡±


    Sun Zinan waved him away. ¡°When the adults are talking, the kids shouldn¡¯t listen.¡±


    Xie Zhuo, ¡°Leave some face for yourself. Just because I called you aunt you think you¡¯re now a senior?¡±


    Sun Zinan couldn¡¯t fool him and could only say, ¡°I¡¯ll chat with you on WeChatter tonight. Go y your card games.¡±


    Xie Zhuo¡¯s gossipy soul was satisfied and he departed triumphantly.


    The courtyard was continuously full ofughter until the moon rose high up in the sky. In the deep of the night, Sun Zinan couldn¡¯t bear the smell of smoke on him anymore and went back to his room. The gathering dispersed ordingly.


    The walls between rooms were not very soundproof; when Tang Kai went upstairs, he could hear the faint sound of water through the walls as he stood in the corridor. Sun Zinan was probably still taking a shower. As he was about to unlock the door to his own room, the sound of water stopped. A momentter, a startled &#k2018;Fuck!¡¯ sounded from the room next door.


    Tang Kai¡¯s hand trembled and he almost threw his key. He hurriedly knocked on Sun Zinan¡¯s door. ¡°Director Sun, it¡¯s me, Tang Kai. What happened, do you need help?¡±


    Sun Zinan opened the door in an uncharacteristic, rapid manner and rushed out to hide behind Tang Kai. He seemed like he was about to copse. ¡°This fucking hellhole! There¡¯s a bug!¡±


    Tang Kai could only see a white apparition whizzing in front of his eyes. He didn¡¯t think Sun Zinan could be this agile. He wasn¡¯t sure what kind of bug could possibly scare someone into this state, but unconsciously reached out anyways to protect him, saying, ¡°It¡¯s all right, don¡¯t be scared. What did you see?¡±


    Sun Zinan gritted his teeth to stop himself from running away. ¡°There was a big ck bug, could fly...it couldn¡¯t have been a bat right?¡±


    ¡°Your room is so bright, it shouldn¡¯t be a bat.¡± Tang Kai pulled Sun Zinan behind him. ¡°I¡¯ll go in and check.¡±


    He pushed the door open and entered the room, only to see shadows shifting around the ceilingmp. There were tworge moths vigorously beating their wings. Wild bugs in the mountains were quite big¡ªwith two of them, the visual impact was rather startling.


    Tang Kai looked about him and understood what had happened when he saw the window wide open in the wind. He turned off the lights and walked out to hand his room key to an unmoving Sun Zinan still standing in the corridor. ¡°Go to my room first and dry your hair before you catch a cold.¡±


    As he spoke, he gently pushed at his back. ¡°Go, there aren¡¯t any bugs there.¡±


    Sun Zinan had seen the two moths immediately aftering out of the bathroom. He had been so scared he had thrown his towel away; thankfully he had already put on a bathrobe or else he would have ranpletely naked into the deep night. As he took Tang Kai¡¯s key, the wits that had bolted off slowly came back. He felt both a lingering fear and a creeping, regretful shame.


    The window in Tang Kai¡¯s room was closed, and it felt a little stuffy. Sun Zinan had been afraid of bugs since he was a child. He had been fine before he saw the moths, but now that he knew bugs existed in this ce, he couldn¡¯t sit still. Every one of his nerves was tense to the point of reaching the ceiling. He felt as if every crack in the walls and floor hid countless enemies.


    After a while, Tang Kai came back from the room next door and witnessed Sun Zinan standing nkly by the bed, too frightened to sit down. He couldn¡¯t help butugh. ¡°Are you still scared? I already checked, there aren¡¯t any bugs.¡±


    Sun Zinan asked, ¡°How is my room?¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°You didn¡¯t close your window earlier. When you turned on the light the bugs saw and flew in. I turned the lights off, so they should have flown away.¡±


    The moment Sun Zinan thought of the fact that bugs had been in his room before, he could feel goosebumps rising. He sighed and said, ¡°Never mind, I¡¯ll ask Xie Zhuo if there are any other empty rooms.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s toote, don¡¯t bother.¡± Tang Kai blocked his path. ¡°Go get your luggage ande to this room. I¡¯ll switch with you.¡±


    No matter how much Sun Zinan hated bugs, he didn¡¯t want to be a burden to others. He was about to say, ¡®How could I?¡± but Tang Kai had already held him down by the shoulder with some force, as if he had predicted his objection. ¡°I¡¯m not afraid of bugs.¡±


    After saying that, he walked over to the ck bag on his chair and took out a 60 ml transparent stic spray bottle. He passed it to Sun Zinan. ¡°If you¡¯re still worried, spray the bed and floor with this. You can also use it as a disinfectant or hand sanitizer.¡±


    Sun Zinan held the bottle to the light to scan its contents. ¡°What¡¯s this?¡±


    ¡°PHMG, polyhexamethylene guanidine.¡± Tang Kai wore his backpack and walked out the door. ¡°It¡¯s a disinfectant and germ-killer. Non-toxic and tasteless, use as much as you want.¡±


    Ah! Science!


    At this moment Sun Zinan felt like he could forgive the entire world¡ªTang Kai was themp lighting up his darkest nights. Forget about having him cook for a week. If Tang Kai wanted him to cook for him every day for the rest of his life, Sun Zinan wouldn¡¯t refuse!


    People were most likely to be moved during their most vulnerable times, and Sun Zinan could not ignoremon etiquette. Undoubtedly, his affections sprouted from a bottle of polyhexamethylene guanidine.


    Tang Kai wasn¡¯t even aware of the wondrous effects of the disinfectant, but he had already made the Director Sun next door sing an entire love aria within his heart. He drove away the other flies in the room, shut the window, then turned the light on again. He then saw Sun Zinan¡¯s scattered personal belongings.


    He swept Sun Zinan¡¯s things to one side, then opened his bag to take out a change of clothes. He undressed and went to the only half-closed bathroom door.


    The steam from the previous shower covered the entire bathroom in a muffled warmth. There was a faint hint of the fragrance of wood, adding a subtle ambiguity. Tang Kai softly breathed out, waiting for his heartbeat to calm down. He reached out and turned the shower on.


    Hot water flowed out, drenching his ck hair. Within the cascading curtain of water, the young man¡¯s fine figure was exposed. His muscles were full and lithe, his skin firm and white. He looked like a beautiful marble sculpture.


    Tang Kai closed his eyes, tilting his head back to let the water stream down and wash his entire body. His mind, on the other hand, took this brief time alone to think over the various events of the day. This trip had definitely been worth it. After leaving his familiar surroundings and experiencing numerous unforeseen incidents, he had finally lifted up a corner of that mask and saw a bit of the truth behind the other man¡¯s frivolousness.


    Sun Zinan¡¯s previous image of a well-dressed pale silhouette had turned much more prolific¡ªwhether it was his surprising cooking skills or his beautiful figure despite his couch potato ways, Tang Kai felt like Sun Zinan¡¯s asional meanness, constant soft-heartedness, and even his (very) little w of being afraid of bugs were all very interesting and cute.


    Most importantly, Tang Kai finally realized that although Sun Zinan had imed himself as a realistic person, he never intended to make others act just as realistic.


    Sun Zinan rarely spoke his mind. The genuine feelings that floated on top of the sea were so pitiful in number that one had to dive deeply before touching the vastness of a heart nobody knew.


    Tang Kai had gone home after their conversation had gone awry that day. After he had calmed down, he thought it over again and realized Sun Zinan had truly just been trying to show him his cards. It hadn¡¯t been a warning.


    He almost had the words ¡®this person is a ck hole¡¯ written on his forehead.


    Tang Kai felt like he had misunderstood him, so he had asked Sun Zinan to his face earlier that morning.


    Sun Zinan¡¯s first reaction had been to conceal his expression, only smiling as he stared back at him. ¡°Professor Tang, do I look like a charitable person to you?¡±


    Tang Kai had responded, ¡°If you had really wanted to trick me into marriage for an inheritance, then you wouldn¡¯t have told me about it. You definitely knew I wouldn¡¯t ept it, yet you still told me. That means from the start you didn¡¯t even consider going on that path. This was actually a very simple logical problem, but I misunderstood.¡±


    Sun Zinan had been so stunned by this analysis that he didn¡¯t know how to answer. He was stuck for a long time before finally saying, ¡°Ahem...it¡¯s fine. It¡¯s not a test. If you get it wrong I¡¯m not going to deduct any points.¡±


    But Tang Kai still had said earnestly, ¡°I was wrong, my apologies.¡±


    ¡°...¡± Sun Zinan had never met such a motivated and responsible ¡®good student¡¯ before and he was at a loss for words. After a moment he continued, ¡°Then I...forgive you?¡±


    Tang Kai had nodded.


    The two of them had silently stood there. Tang Kai had seemed to have finally made a decision, and said with a determination akin to resolutely blowing up a fort, ¡°I¡¯m willing to try.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°Try what?¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°Try to cultivate feelings with you and maybe take a step forward with our friendship.¡±


    Sun Zinan: ¡°...Do you want to think about it some more?¡±


    ¡°Think about it, Professor Tang, if you ept this, then won¡¯t I achieve my original goal? I¡¯ve tricked you into marrying me, I¡¯ve given you a sense of security, and I¡¯ve shown you my affection. I¡¯ve killed three birds with one stone. Isn¡¯t that how it works? This is also a logical problem, please think it over carefully.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°...¡±


    He could tell that all of Sun Zinan¡¯s efforts had been put into teasing him. What was so cute about this pig trotter!


    Xie Zhuo had been wondering all day how Tang Kai lost over a million Huanle Dou in just one morning. This was the reason.


    It was already midnight by the time he finished showering. Someone abruptly knocked on his door. After he covered himself with a towel, Tang Kai opened the door and discovered Sun Zinan standing there. ¡°What happened?¡±


    Sun Zinan had recovered from his shock and reverted back to his customary manner. His hair had just been dried and hung gently over his brows. This erased any hints of aggression from his face, blurring his age even further. The body wrapped in the bathrobe was thin and tall. His waist was slim and his legs long¡ªhe looked in every way like a charming young man.


    He handed the spray bottle over. ¡°Nothing happened. I thought you might need to use this too. Thank you.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°You¡¯re wee.¡±


    His fingertips merely touched the palm of his hand for half a second, but it suddenly felt as if he had been electrocuted.


    The air was still for a moment.


    Tang Kai asked, ¡°Your clothes, still in your bag...?¡±


    ¡°Hand me the bag,¡± Sun Zinan replied. ¡°I don¡¯t need my clothes.¡±


    Tang Kai silently turned back, gathered the things, and put them into his hands.


    Sun Zinan, ¡°I¡¯ll stop bothering you. Good night.¡±


    ¡°En, good night.¡±

 Chapter 10 - What Did Shakespeare Do Wrong?

    <h4>Chapter 10 - What Did Shakespeare Do Wrong?</h4>


    The next day, 6:30 A.M.


    Tang Kai entered the courtyard, bathing in the bright morning light along with the gentle breeze from the mountains.


    The courtyard was quiet and many of the rooms still had their windows tightly covered behind curtains. It seemed like everyone had stayed up toote the previous night and was still sleeping. He rubbed at his t stomach and sighed, intending to scavenge something to eat from the kitchen.


    Tang Kai opened the door soundlessly and entered the building. He passed by the living room on his way to the kitchen on the first floor. From far off, he could already smell a tantalizing aroma, apanied by the slight tter of pots, oil sttering, and the rumble of boiling water. His hunger immediately went from eight points to ten.


    Tang Kai thought that the owner of the resort had returned, but when he looked up, he realized it was actually Sun Zinan standing at the kitchen counter.


    He didn¡¯t know when Sun Zinan had woken up. The other man was currently idly frying eggs in a small saucepan. Beside him was arge pot full of tumultuously boiling water and silvery threads of noodles floating and sinking within. On the other side of the counter, the coffee pot was already half full. The fragrance of all the different foods mixed together with the view of the other person¡¯s back. This synergy created a mysterious chemical reaction, turning into an indescribable warmth that filled the small kitchen with aforting substance.


    Tang Kai¡¯s gaze was glued to the scene; he felt as if he could just watch him like this until the end of time.


    But he had only stayed there for a few seconds before his stomach began protesting in hunger. Tang Kai knocked twice on the doorframe and Sun Zinan turned around.


    ¡°Morning.¡±


    ¡°Morning.¡± Tang Kai saw the dark circles under Sun Zinan¡¯s eyes and his brows furrowed slightly as he asked, ¡°Why did you get up so early? Did you not sleep wellst night?¡±


    ¡°I slept okay,¡± Sun Zinan replied. ¡°Used to it. Did you juste back from outside?¡±


    Tang Kai was dressed in running clothes, and his forehead was still slightly sweaty. His in, straight-cut T-shirt couldn¡¯t hide the broad shoulders that fanned out nor his slim waist. He looked particrly pleasing to the eye.


    Tang Kai said lightly, ¡°I went to the top of the mountain for a short walk.¡±


    Sun Zinan silently saluted him.


    He had woken up this morning with both of his legs aching, probably from the strenuous hiking yesterday. When he went downstairs, he couldn¡¯t even bend his legs. Professor Tang was truly a beastly wolf. He wasn¡¯t satisfied from only climbing up half the mountain yesterday, so he got up early today to reach the peak.


    Sun Zinan nced at the timer on his phone. ¡°It¡¯ll be awhile before breakfast is ready. You can go upstairs and shower. Do you want your eggs fully cooked or runny?¡±


    Tang Kai¡¯s brows rxed and he said, ¡°Fully cooked. Thanks for your hard work.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡± Sun Zinan took a spat and flipped the fried eggs over with one hand. ¡°No need to thank me.¡±


    Sun Zinan had also made him a portion; this discovery gave Tang Kai an inexplicable happiness thatsted until he had finished showering and went downstairs again. In the kitchen, Sun Zinan was currently taking the noodles out of the pot and rinsing them. He heard the sound of footsteps in the midst of the chaos and pointed at the dining table without even turning his head around. He instructed, ¡°Take a bowl and a pair of chopsticks and bring the noodles and sauce to the table. Serve yourself however much you want to eat.¡±


    The noodles were air-dried noodles, the sauce was made of shredded pork and preserved vegetables. The three golden yellow eggsy on a white porcin te. Tang Kai wondered, ¡°How many people?¡±


    Sun Zinan poured oil into another pan; it was unclear what he was busy with. ¡°Three.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°Who else?¡±


    ¡°My assistant.¡± Sun Zinan asked, ¡°Didn¡¯t you see him when you walked through the living room? He¡¯s sleeping on the couch.¡±


    Tang Kai recalled that he had seen a car outside the courtyard when he entered earlier. He had even been slightly confused, wondering if there had been a car therest night. Turns out it was Sun Zinan¡¯s.


    ¡°Why did you call your assistant over? Do you have other work today?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Sun Zinan dropped another egg into the pan. ¡°I can¡¯t wear my clothes from yesterday, so I had him deliver a new set.¡±


    Tang Kai¡¯s mind was immediately soothed, and he cast a sympathetic nce at the living room.


    Capitalists were really cruel.


    He divided the noodles into three bowls, but didn¡¯t start eating. Like a small child waiting at the table for food, he asked, ¡°What are you making now? Don¡¯t make yourself so busy, the others will probably wake up veryte. Come eat first.¡±


    Sun Zinan cleaned up the stove and turned off the kitchen venttor, then ced an omelette in front of him. ¡°I didn¡¯t make anything for the others. You eat first, I¡¯ll go wake my assistant.¡±


    However, Tang Kai still waited until he came back and sat down before eating his breakfast. The Yu Liang who had been tragically dragged out was so sleepy and muddled, his soul was about to float out. But the moment his butt hit the seat across from Tang Kai and he raised his head, he immediately felt a thrill even greater than seeing a ghost. ¡°Pro-pro-professor Tang hello!¡±


    Tang Kai remembered this stic bag-like little assistant. He said slowly, ¡°En, hello.¡±


    After this greeting, hepletely ignored him.


    Yu Liang had been afraid of teachers since he was young. Tang Kai had also left a heavy psychological shadow upon him so he ate his meal with great trepidation, as if he were sitting on needles, always fearing Tang Kai would cold-call him to answer a question at any second.


    Sun Zinan ate a mouthful of the pork and pickled vegetables. The eggs were cooked to perfection and the delicious, warm breakfast soothed both his stomach and heart. He saw that Tang Kai hadn¡¯t touched the omelette, so quipped, ¡°I didn¡¯t know you were going to exercise in the morning so I only made a pot of noodles. You probably won¡¯t be full from just that. I saw there was a bit of meat fromst night still in the fridge so I made an omelette. Try it and see how it tastes.¡±


    After a moment¡¯s hesitation, Tang Kai picked up a portion of the omelette with his chopsticks. He wasn¡¯t sure what base Sun Zinan had used for the omelette, but itsbination with the eggs made it fragrant and soft, which was different from the crispy omelettes sold on the streets. The omelette included diced onions, bell peppers, fried chicken, and a little bit of ck pepper and spicy barbecue sauce. Even Tang Kai, who didn¡¯t like onions and bell peppers, epted the taste without any resistance.


    Like arge cat whose fur had been just brushed smoothly, he expressed a sincerepliment towards his owner. ¡°It¡¯s good.¡±


    For some reason, Sun Zinan thought his ¡®it¡¯s good¡¯ was more of an ¡®it¡¯s delicious,¡¯ and he felt indescribably happy about it. He couldn¡¯t resist lowering his head and smiling before pressing the corners of his mouth back down. ¡°As long as you like it.¡±


    Yu Liang¡¯s eyes became very big and round. He had personally experienced interacting with both of these men and still remembered how his boss had been badly rejected by Professor Tang. He also remembered how angry his boss was when he was forced to go on a blind date. Howe even the heavens had changed after he took a nap? Not only were these two harmoniously eating together, his boss was even giving Professor Tang special treatment...was he dreaming?


    The Yu Liang who hadn¡¯t seen the battle against the mothsst night obviously did not know that Sun Zinan had nearly sold himself for a bottle of polyhexamethylene guanidine. At this moment he was only a small third wheel between these two powerful men, and could only pitifully think to himself: I drove up this mountain at three in the morning to deliver clothes, I¡¯m not full...I want an omelette too.


    The three of them finished breakfast. Yu Liang went back to sleep while Sun Zinan and Tang Kai each took a cup of coffee and sat in the courtyard to sunbathe while it was still fairly cool outside.


    Tang Kai stretched his legs out and asked, ¡°You agreed to cook for me for a week. Do we start counting from today¡¯s breakfast?¡±


    ¡°Think of it as a trial meal, open to the public,¡± Sun Zinan repliedzily. ¡°After I¡¯m less busy at work, you can stay at my house for a week and order whatever you want. I¡¯ll make whatever you want to eat.¡±


    Tang Kai almost choked on his sip of coffee. Sun Zinan nced at him and smiled mischievously. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t take advantage of you.¡±


    Tang Kai scanned Sun Zinan¡¯s slender arms and legs, then asked in a suspicious yet sincere way, ¡°What makes you think I¡¯d be worried about fending off your advances?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡± This guy was really harsh.


    He often quarreled with Tang Kai until both of them had suffered battle wounds, so Sun Zinan was already used to being suddenly choked by his words. He only humphed from his nose and ignored him.


    Tang Kai held the coffee cup and his eyes bent involuntarily as if he were smiling.


    It waspletely silent except for the wind and birds singing in the mountains. The sun was shining like gold. The sky was clear and peaceful, but it was not lonely.


    Tang Kai scrolled through the articles on his moments andmented, ¡°We¡¯re like two retired old men.¡±


    Sun Zinan skimmed through his Weibo feed and replied, ¡°Are old men this fashionable? Drinking espresso without fearing for their stomachs or hearts?¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°...¡±


    ¡°But this ce is pretty nice, it¡¯s quiet.¡± Sun Zinan¡¯s tone changed. ¡°After I retire, I¡¯ll buy a small building here and live in seclusion.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°Live in seclusion with the giant moths?¡±


    Sun Zinan put his phone down. ¡°Professor Tang, I¡¯m warning you, if you say anything else I¡¯m going to hit you.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to be afraid of bugs.¡± Tang Kai smiled indifferently. ¡°As long as you bring me along to live in seclusion with you.¡±


    Sun Zinan had to think for a bit before he understood what Tang Kai was saying.


    The question that had been hanging between them, like a bridge that could not be mentioned nor crossed, had finally found an answer. Sun Zinan had expected a dramatic, heart-rendering finale, but it had actually appeared so lightly through idle conversation on this fine morning.


    It came so lightly...that it was like a reckless promise.


    Sun Zinan looked like a person who could handleplicated matters without much thought, but he was very clear with himself that every step he had taken in these past years had left a solid footprint upon his life. Every decision he made had to be the result of careful deliberation over the consequences.


    This exceedingly important life decision had been too floaty since the beginning, like a handheld balloon that was made without much effort. Although it looked bright and enticing, it would break with a single blow.


    Now that Tang Kai had asked him to regard this balloon as a pearl he must protect for a lifetime, Sun Zinan realized that even a normal person would hesitate over this.


    But there seemed to be another force within his chest that desired to break through the iron bars of conformity. Just like how he wanted to retire to the mountains and live his life out in seclusion, he knew better than anyone that he was always looking for a way to escape. He yearned for freedom, anticipated going all in...to be honest, all his dreams were a distinct opposite against his personality.


    Hasty marriage seldom proveth well.


    This was an example in an English textbook exining how to use the word ¡®hasty.¡¯ Sun Zinan had forgotten where he had seen this phrase before, but it now sprung up from the depths of his mind, like a bell or some dangerous stimnt, tempting him to run wildly in the direction of madness.


    Sun Zinan turned his head around to look at Tang Kai. He seriously asked a questionpletely out of the blue. ¡°Have you read Shakespeare?¡±


    Tang Kai subconsciously shook his head.


    His literary knowledge was quite mediocre, and he only knew the phrase ¡®to be or not to be.¡¯ He didn¡¯t even know the names of Shakespeare¡¯s four great tragedies.


    ¡°Good.¡±


    Sun Zinan leaned back in his chair. As if he had cast away the stones in his heart, his entire body felt the rxation of ¡®releasing a breath.¡¯ He looked up at the distant peak of the mountain and promised without any hesitation, ¡°In that case, I¡¯ll take you with me when I retire.¡±


    Tang Kai made use of every bit of time and nced over his phone screen. He scanned over the Baidu search results for ¡®marriage shakespeare¡¯ and saw an article titled ¡®Shakespeare¡¯s Famous Saying About Love...Hasty Marriage Seldom Proveth Well.¡¯


    He curled his lips up in satisfaction, exiting the browser. In this warm morning breeze, an agreement was made cheerfully. ¡°En. It just so happens that I don¡¯t like Shakespeare either.¡±

 Chapter 11 - What Are You Doing Hiding Behind the Door?

    <h4>Chapter 11 - What Are You Doing Hiding Behind the Door?</h4>


    When Tang Kai had made his ¡®cook me meals for a week¡¯ request, Sun Zinan had felt it was too simple. But when he began to prepare for it, he actually found it quite difficult. It wasn¡¯t because Professor Tang was hard to please. One of them lived at the western edge of the city while the other lived in the north, near Tianhai University. They were separated by half the city. Moving in with either of them would cause traffic on the way to work every morning for the other. They could only hastily meet up when neither of them were busy.


    Sun Zinan finished arge project at work at the end of May. He thought he could finally fulfill his promise, but after he finished buying all the ingredients, Tang Kai went abroad for a conference. When he finally returned two dayster, he was just in time for graduation. The entire campus was as busy as a chaotic zoo. So they dragged it out until July. When Sun Zinan saw that summer vacation was starting, he wondered, was it finally time for them to sit down and eat a good meal together? But on his way home from work, the old man called. Without even a single word of greeting, he directly asked Sun Zinan to bring Tang Kai home for the old man¡¯s birthday banquet.


    Sun Zinan was speechless. ¡°Nothing has even happened between us yet...what identity do you want him toe over with? Besides, if you want him toe then pick a better date. Won¡¯t it be awkward to deal with the chaos of so many other people? We¡¯re not going.¡±


    Sun Ying, ¡°Aren¡¯t the two of you getting along very well? Why can¡¯t you take him home to meet me? The ugly daughter-inw has to see her inws eventually. If he doesn¡¯te now, are you going to hide him from me for the rest of your life?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant...¡± Sun Zinan often spoke to his own father like he was talking to the deaf. ¡°Forget it, Tang Kai¡¯s university is currently busy so I don¡¯t know if he cane. Let me ask.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t me me for not letting you know.¡± Sun Ying threw out his final trump card. ¡°The invitation has already been sent to the Tang family. Even if Tang Kai doesn¡¯te, you have toe meet Tang Zhenhua. Make your ns ordingly.¡±


    Sun Zinan thought this type of ¡®acting first then reporting¡¯ tactic was the most annoying. He said burningly, ¡°I got it. I¡¯m hanging up if there¡¯s nothing else.¡±


    He threw his phone down onto his desk and it made a loud nking sound. The Yu Liang who had just pushed the door toe in was so scared he jumped back outside. Like a marmot, he cautiously stuck his head out. ¡°Director Sun.¡±


    ¡°Come in.¡± Sun Zinan¡¯s face sank as he spoke. ¡°What are you doing hiding behind the door. Scared of mousetraps?¡±


    Yu Liang shuffled up to him in small steps, looking like a eunuch awaiting his emperor. ¡°Director Sun, there¡¯s a strategy meeting at nine thirty. It¡¯s time to go downstairs.¡±


    The meeting room.


    Sun Zinan sat at the head of the table, a pen held between his fingers. His gaze fixed heavily upon the powerpoint projection, deeply pondering.


    The project director¡¯s voice continued, ¡°...In conclusion, I rmend making the sanatorium ecological park a supporting entry into the industrial chain along with the main product. A moreplete management service system will also help us improve our industrial distribution and develop the healthcare market in more depth.¡±


    ¡°En.¡± Sun Zinan didn¡¯t express his thoughts and turned to the other executives instead. ¡°What are everyone¡¯s opinions, tell me what you think.¡±


    Commercial director Jian Zhengde said, ¡°It¡¯s feasible. Most gic testingpanies are now facing this issue. Customers pay a lot of money for these tests, but how do you interpret the tests? People without professional expertise won¡¯t be able to tell anything. What if a major disease is detected early? If we can pair it with a medical facility, we can do ¡®early discovery early treatment.¡¯ That would obviously be good.¡±


    ¡°What you said sounds good, but it¡¯s a big problem in practice.¡± Vice president Wang Geng interjected, ¡°Building an ecological sanatorium is all about real estate development. Ourpany doesn¡¯t have any qualifications in that field, so we can only cooperate with real estate developers and be a part of their infrastructure. Or, we can work with local governments and wait for them to invest in the construction of a tourist health center before we make a move. But the only ecological center in China is the Dihua Valley Center in Zhongxiang City. The southwest is too remote and far away.¡±


    Several executives argued over this issue for about twenty minutes, but the main point of disagreement was still over the feasibility. Most of them advocated opening up to new fields and not stubbornly sticking to a top-notch gic test product. Only a few continued to insist that the ecological park was a dead end; not only did it deviate from the general direction of the biotechnology sector, it would also pull down thepetitiveness of theirpany.


    Sun Zinan continued to ponder and concluded nomittally, ¡°There¡¯s no rush to make a proposal. We need to recheck the feasibility. Project director,e to my office. If no one has any other questions, let¡¯s end this meeting.¡±


    Five minutester, project director Liu Cheng came to his office. Sun Zinan threw over the files for the project report and pointed at the sofa. ¡°Sit.¡±


    Liu Cheng was a middle-aged man in his forties. He had a technical background. Although he was balding, he didn¡¯t look too shabby, and could be considered one of Sun Zinan¡¯s hand-picked confidants.


    The year Sun Zinan had entered Hongsen Biotechnology, during the process of reorganizing this shabby little health productspany and wrestling power from the previous management which was unwilling to give up, the previous project director under the Diabetes Genome Development that Sun Zinan had ced high hopes on screwed up the ¡®oral insulin¡¯ case that greatly damaged thepany¡¯s reputation. Afterwards, Sun Zinan had fired the project director and the entire development team in rage, leaving only a second team led by Liu Cheng. Recklessly, with nothing left to lose, they coborated with Dongfang University¡¯s gene sequencing data and managed to research a slightly more sensitive single molecule liquid biopsy technique for detecting diseases. This barely met the threshold for early detection of diabetes.


    Coincidentally, the government held a conference that autumn to announce a new policy that provided arge amount of support to domestic healthcare and research industries. A spring wind hade. Hongsen managed to hitch a ride in this wind of opportunity and took the chance topletely transform thepany¡¯s direction. They then formally entered the health industry.


    Liu Cheng had followed the right boss; he was promoted to project director and turned from a ¡®seller in a healthcare products pyramid scheme¡¯ to apany executive. Sun Zinan was very tolerant towards him¡ªafter all, they had been friends through thick and thin. But it had be difficult for him to turn a blind eye towards Liu Cheng¡¯s performance for the past half year.


    ¡°Speak your mind,¡± Sun Zinan told him.


    Liu Cheng clenched at his fingers nervously, and his Adam¡¯s apple bobbed. He cleared his throat and recited the powerpoint. ¡°Director Sun, this...I think the ecological park can be the next step towards connecting with the industry. Once we begin with the gic testing, we can also offer health management services and urate medical diagnoses...¡±


    ¡°It sounds good in theory,¡± Sun Zinan responded. ¡°But this kind of ecological park is a psychologicalfort program, and I don¡¯t think it¡¯s something you¡¯d want to focus on.¡±


    Liu Cheng took a deep breath and said, ¡°I¡¯ve only recently changed my way of thinking. No matter what the opportunity is, I think we should seize it since we have the government¡¯s policy support. We have to seize the initiative.¡±


    This time, Sun Zinan finally nodded his head. ¡°That¡¯s reasonable.¡±


    Liu Cheng visibly breathed a sigh of relief. His back was dripping with perspiration. He lowered his head for a moment, then realized Sun Zinan was closely examining him.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, are you feeling ufortable?¡± Sun Zinan asked.


    ¡°No.¡± Liu Cheng answered automatically. Only after he had replied did he awkwardly backtrack to fill in the gaps of his response. ¡°I had a quarrel with my family, it¡¯s not a big deal.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Sun Zinan said. ¡°I don¡¯t have anything else, you can go back to work.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Liu Cheng got up and left.


    Sun Zinan waited for the office door to closepletely before reaching for the phone on his desk. He leaned backpletely and made a phone call as he nestled into his director¡¯s chair.


    ¡°It¡¯s me, Sun Zinan.¡± He said calmly, ¡°Can you check for me if Liu Cheng has brought any of his family members to thepany for tests recently? Send the results to me. Keep it a secret.¡±


    First floor of Yinhong Tower, a remote corner at the end of a corridor.


    ¡°...I already brought this up at thepany.¡± Liu Cheng was scanning his surroundings, weasel-like and shrinking like a thief as he spoke in a small voice. ¡°I don¡¯t have any authority over its approval...I¡¯ve alreadypleted your request. Director Sun, you can¡¯t go back on your words!¡±


    He suddenly became agitated, but immediately realized he couldn¡¯t make loud sounds. His voice was heavily restrained as he said anxiously, ¡°...I can¡¯t do that! If I¡¯m discovered I¡¯ll...¡±


    The sounds of an elevator opening its doors came from the other end of the corridor. Liu Cheng was immediately alerted. He looked left and right, then scurried off with his phone screen covered.


    A momentter, arge green nt next to the vending machine began shaking and Yu Liang emerged, his face covered in dead leaves. He held a milk tea in one hand and frowned in the direction Liu Cheng had left in, wondering if he had just identally heard some shocking secret.


    A hand appeared from behind andnded heavily on his shoulder.


    All the hairs on Yu Liang¡¯s body rose up as if electrified, and he shivered violently as he leapt forward with his eyes closed, screaming ¡°Ao!¡± The hand caught him and fished him back.


    Vice president Wang Geng¡¯s voice rang coldly from behind. ¡°What are you shouting for, did you run into a ghost in broad daylight?¡±


    Yu Liang, ¡°...¡±


    He was very close to dying on the spot.


    ¡°Wang Wang Wang Wang Wang vice...¡± He broke free of Wang Geng¡¯s grip, unsure how much the other had seen or heard. He stammered, ¡°Hello vice president.¡±


    The other man was taller than him by half a head. Although he had a handsome aura about him, he didn¡¯t look like someone who was easy to get along with. ¡°Don¡¯t give people nicknames. Is my name Wang Wang Wang?¡±


    Yu Liang, this child, didn¡¯t know if he had been scared silly or what, but he even nodded his head with a solemn frown.


    Wang Geng almostughed in astonishment. He couldn¡¯t resist pulling the leaves out of Yu Liang¡¯s hair as he asked, ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    Yu Liang timidly raised the can in his hand, his expression more akin to someone who had been caught smuggling hand grenades. ¡°Buying milk tea.¡±


    Wang Geng nced at the flowery packaging and said unceremoniously, ¡°Childish.¡±


    It was indeed childish. Thepany only had tea and coffee in its kitchte. Yu Liang had wanted to drink something sweet, so he had snuck off like a thief to this remote vending machine.


    But if it wasn¡¯t for this little craving of his, Yu Liang would have never caught that vague but strange phone call.


    Wang Geng leisurely threw the leaves back into the flowerpot, then looked down to see Yu Liang staring timidly up at him. As if he had just summoned up a great deal of courage, he stumbled through his question. ¡°Vice, vice president Wang, why are you also here...¡±


    Wang Gengughed silently, thinking to himself that although this little guy was a coward, he was still very loyal.


    ¡°I came to smoke,¡± he replied.


    Yu Liang subconsciously sniffed and actually found the faint smell of a cigarette mingled with the clean scent of Wang Geng¡¯s cologne. It wasn¡¯t an unpleasant smell, and even had a bit of charm that was difficult to put into words.


    Wang Geng had been convinced by his foolishness. He couldn¡¯t resist gently nudging at Yu Liang¡¯s back. ¡°Break time is over, go back and work. Don¡¯t ck off.¡±

 Chapter 12 - Go Look at Your Recipe

    <h4>Chapter 12 - Go Look at Your Recipe</h4>


    On their way back to the office, Yu Liang didn¡¯t dare stand by Wang Geng¡¯s side so he walked one step behind him. He nced up at the other¡¯s back over and over again, but didn¡¯t dare speak to him the entire time.


    He returned to the assistant¡¯s office with a drooping head, then ran into Gu Yao, Sun Zinan¡¯s main assistant, carrying a bag as she went out the door. Yu Liang falteringly greeted her with a ¡®Gu Yao jie.¡¯ This was returned with a stern look. ¡°I¡¯m running an errand. Don¡¯t run around and leave Director Sun without any staff to call for.¡±


    Yu Liang nodded dazedly and sat down at his workstation. His mind was in a state of turmoil¡ªhe wasn¡¯t sure if he should report Liu Cheng to Sun Zinan.


    Although Liu Cheng¡¯s actions had been very suspicious, he was still one of Sun Zinan¡¯s highly-regarded employees. If he carelessly went and made a false report, Yu Liang would definitely lose his job.


    But if he didn¡¯t say anything, he would still feel ufortable.


    And Wang Geng, how much did he hear? What side did that person stand on?


    In the evening, while the employees were packing up to go home, Sun Zinan sat in front of the window under the light of the setting sun. He wondered if he should invite Tang Kai for dinner and ask him for advice about the situation. But before he had even figured out how to ask, the phone on his desk began vibrating.


    Speaking of the devil, Tang Kai¡¯s voice rang out clearly. ¡°Not off work yet?¡±


    Sun Zinan automatically interpreted this question as Tang Kai asking if he was still at thepany or not. He replied, ¡°Not yet. What¡¯s up?¡±


    Tang Kai responded brusquely, ¡°Yourpany¡¯s receptionists are already off work.¡±


    Sun Zinan nked for a few seconds before realizing something. He sprang up unstably from his chair. ¡°Are you downstairs? Wait there, don¡¯t move, I¡¯lle down right now.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t rush.¡± There seemed to be a lowugh from the other end of the phone. ¡°Take your time.¡±


    A ck BMW was parked in front of the building. Sun Zinan recognized the license te and pulled the door open with a familiar ease. He sat down and asked in a good mood, ¡°How did you find the time toe over today?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to do at theb and I¡¯m not that busy over summer vacation anyways.¡± Tang Kai motioned for him to buckle his seat belt and lightly stepped on the gas pedal. ¡°I remembered we haven¡¯t eaten the meal fromst time, so I came to collect my debts.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s eat out today.¡± Sun Zinan thought events had turned out perfectly. He said casually, ¡°I don¡¯t have any groceries at home.¡±


    Tang Kai¡¯s mood visibly dropped, sulking so tantly it was difficult to ignore. His beautiful side profile became strained, and his eyes stared straight ahead. His entire body exuded an aura ofints, as if he was saying ¡®you lying big pig trotter.¡¯


    Sun Zinan became quite afraid of this and coaxed hurriedly, ¡°Isn¡¯t it because I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ll be hungry. Then let¡¯s stop by the supermarket on the way. It¡¯ll take two hours if we ask for grocery delivery.¡±


    Tang Kai drove the car somberly, pretending he was very sensible and understanding. ¡°I don¡¯t want to be a bother. You can just cook whatever.¡±


    Sun Zinan thought to himself, pei.


    ¡°Who was the one who unashamedly told me &#k2018;even instant noodles are okay as long as it¡¯s with the person I like,¡¯ hm? What about now?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t even take you out to eat, and you want me to cook for you in person.¡± Sun Zinan mercilessly dug up an old grudge and smirked. ¡°Ah, men.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°...¡±


    He struggled for a bit before saying, ¡°This isn¡¯t contradictory. I can definitely eat instant noodles with you...but would you be okay with it?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine with it, what¡¯s not okay about that?¡± Sun Zinan resisted the urge tough and said, ¡°Haven¡¯t all you scientists suffered this hardship?¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°Mere sweet talk. You just don¡¯t love me anymore. Ah, men.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°You¡¯re pestering me too much, so childish.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°You¡¯re childish.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°Reverse card.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°Reverse card not valid.¡±


    The sound of the car faded away.


    It was just around dinnertime and there were still many people at the supermarket. Most of the customers were from the neighborhood, including parents bringing their children who had just gotten off school. There were also couples on their way home from work. The atmosphere was noisy and exciting. The two of them mingled in with the crowd; although they were both eye-catching, they didn¡¯t stand out too much.


    In the past two months, even though Sun Zinan had not kept his promise to Professor Tang to make a full week¡¯s worth of meals for him, the two of them hadn¡¯t broken off contact and met up twice a week. Usually, whoever wasn¡¯t busy would go and pick the other up from work. They would eat out asionally, but Sun Zinan cooked most of the time.


    In these two months, they had learned to recognize each other¡¯s license tes. Sun Zinan had eaten at Tianhai University¡¯s cafeteria, while Tang Kai had tasted the roast duck shop downstairs at Sun Zinan¡¯spany. Afterpiling the fragmented number of meals together, they had already long fulfilled Tang Kai¡¯s request. Both of them knew this, but neither took the initiative to mention it. The goal was to first develop feelings through eating meals together, then quietly make more and more room for the other person in their lives.


    ¡°Do you eat gourd?¡± Sun Zinan was picking out vegetables in the produce section. ¡°Should we add some garlic minced meat and rice noodles, or make it into a soup?¡±


    Tang Kai asked, ¡°Will it still be vorful if it¡¯s in a soup?¡±


    ¡°Should be fine.¡± Sun Zinan wrapped the gourds in stic and put them in the shopping cart. ¡°Let¡¯s buy three. We can steam it today and make soup next time. You can taste-test to see if you like it or not.¡±


    One thing Sun Zinan really appreciated about Tang Kai was that he wasn¡¯t proactive about deciding things on his behalf. He never forced others to agree with him. Although he didn¡¯t seem like it, Sun Zinan was the type of person who willingly let others make choices for him. Once someone surpassed the walls of defense he had put up and became ¡®one of us,¡¯ his tolerance of the other person would reach nearly unconditional indulgence.


    It was said that what¡¯s easily obtained is often not treasured, but feelings are fragile, priceless goods that cannot be squandered nor sold as consumable products. It was precisely because Sun Zinan had given him his full respect and freedom to do whatever that Tang Kai needed to keep to his boundaries even more.


    Tang Kai didn¡¯t even need any personal experience to understand that if Sun Zinan¡¯s patience was ever exhausted someday, he would immediately take away those privileges. He would probably never find someone like him again.


    As they passed by the dazzling arrays of products, Sun Zinan threw a handful of fresh spring onions andtro into the cart. He turned towards the meat and seafood section. ¡°Do you want to eat fish or chicken? Or should we buy some ribs and roast them?¡±


    Tang Kai looked at the carelessly standing silhouette that still retained a touch of focus. He spoke from the depths of his heart, ¡°Let¡¯s eat fish today, chicken tomorrow, then ribs the day after.¡±


    Sun Zinan couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°Keep dreaming.¡±


    As he spoke, he caught a glimpse of the counter. As if he had discovered the New World, he eximed, ¡°Yi, there are fresh ducks! Why don¡¯t we buy some drumsticks and make some beer braised duck tonight?¡±


    Tang Kai was full of blind faith towards Sun Zinan¡¯s abilities; every question asked received his answer of okay okay okay, en en en. But the second after Sun Zinan asked the butcher to weigh the duck, he reached for his phone. ¡°Let me find a recipe and see what else we need.¡±


    Professor Tang¡¯s jaw almost dropped to the floor. ¡°You¡¯re looking for a recipe now?¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡± Sun Zinan flipped through a website without raising his head. ¡°You asked for this, so if it¡¯s burnt you still have to eat it all.¡±


    After a moment of silence, Tang Kai said cautiously, ¡°As a precaution, why don¡¯t we go grab two bags of instant noodles.¡±


    Sun Zinan was so amused by his expression he couldn¡¯t stop chuckling for a while. He ordered Tang Kai to grab beer while he himself picked up a few ingredients from the spice aisle. He bought packets of star anise, fennel, cinnamon, etc. then picked up a bag of dried seaweed to use in a soup when they got back. Finally, when he passed by the instant foods aisle, he actually bought a five-pack of instant noodles.


    A momentter, Tang Kai walked over to him and noticed the instant noodles in the cart. The expression on his face was full of unspeakable emotions.


    Sun Zinan was addicted to teasing him, smiling mischievously as he ridiculed, ¡°Is that really necessary, Professor Tang? Your face is almost the same color as the gourd. Let me see what you got...en, four <i>jin</i> of cherries, you¡¯re still thrifty with running a household.¡±


    Tang Kai was ustomed to his sarcasm and retorted calmly, ¡°Go look at your recipe.¡±


    ¡°How could you talk to me like this, you¡¯re looking down on me aren¡¯t you?¡± Sun Zinan smirked. ¡°Looks like you haven¡¯t been beaten up by a genius cook yet.¡±


    Tang Kai couldn¡¯t bear it anymore. He reached over and squeezed Sun Zinan¡¯s mouth shut.


    The clean-freak Virgo Sun Zinan finally lost his mind and grabbed at Professor Tang¡¯s cheeks as he roared angrily, ¡°You just touched potatoes with those hands! And rubbed them on my face!¡±


    The two of them scuffled with each other the entire way. They acted so childishly even preschoolers would have been ashamed. As he passed by the daily necessities aisle, Sun Zinan abruptly stopped and turned his head back to ask Tang Kai, ¡°I just remembered you¡¯re on vacation. If you don¡¯t have work tomorrow, want to stay over tonight? We can just buy some toiletries here.¡±


    He asked straightforwardly and naturally, without any wariness, but his words had a subtle hidden meaning when they fell upon Tang Kai¡¯s ears. It took him a while to calm down. He leaned down slightly and murmured lowly into Sun Zinan¡¯s ear, ¡°Director Sun, are you inviting me over?¡±


    The proper and pure Sun Zinan was stunned for a second before returning to his senses. He grasped angrily at his shirt cor out of embarrassment. ¡°Scram, you can sleep on the street!¡±


    A low, breathyugh escaped from Tang Kai¡¯s throat. Like a smooth stream of water, Professor Tang seemed to have broken through some kind of restraint due to shame. Not only did he not move aside, but he even carelessly reached a hand out to sp Sun Zinan firmly backwards against his chest.


    Sun Zinan appeared as calm as an old dog, but in reality he was in a panic, his heart soaring to 120 beats per minute.


    He was surrounded by the warmth of the embrace. Like an insect trapped by amber, unable to escape no matter how he struggled, his entire body stiffened.


    It was some time before he managed to tremblingly raise his hand with great care and jab lightly at Tang Kai¡¯s forearm. ¡°Uh...ahem, we¡¯re in public, pay attention to our image.¡±


    There wasn¡¯t actually anyone around, but he suddenly felt like all his thoughts had been exposed in broad daylight.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care.¡± Tang Kai hugged him even more tightly, being the scoundrel he was, and softly, contentedly sighed, ¡°I¡¯ve been wanting to do this for a long time.¡±


    He had simted this action a million times in his head, but once he held the actual person, he realized thoughts could neverpare to reality.


    Sun Zinan was very thin, but the type of thin that hadn¡¯t benefited from any exercise. His waist was very soft and his shoulders dug a little into Tang Kai like a hard shell. However, Tang Kai knew that a lively, generous, and kind heart was wrapped under that hard shell.


    He had hesitated, wondered, been undecided, doubted. But now, he wanted to be the only person who could enter that heart.


    He traced a fingertip over Sun Zinan¡¯s beating heart, then asked again, ¡°Are you inviting me over?¡±


    Their heights were simr, although Tang Kai was a little taller. He lowered his head slightly to brush against the other¡¯s earlobe. Sun Zinan was about to die from embarrassment, but also felt like his heart was about to melt from sweetness. He told himself to be patient before finally grasping Tang Kai¡¯s hand and saying quietly, ¡°If you dally any longer, we¡¯ll end up home in time for ate-night snack. Be obedient, stop fussing.¡±


    When Tang Kai heard that his tone was one of coaxing a child, he felt like Sun Zinan had misunderstood something.


    But in order to maintain his ¡®obedient¡¯ attitude, Tang Kai changed his methods. ¡°I¡¯ll take your silence as approval. Starting today, half the food in your pots is mine.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    Half of whatever is yours¡ªdid this fool really take him for a daycare?

 Chapter 13 - BGM: A Little Sweet

    <h4>Chapter 13 - BGM: A Little Sweet</h4>


    ¡°Uh, ahem.¡± Sun Zinan was afraid he would do something too affectionate in this public setting, so he quickly changed the subject. ¡°Since you¡¯re not busy these days, I¡¯ll fulfill my promise fromst time. If you don¡¯t mind, you can stay with me for a week so you don¡¯t have to run back and forth...¡±


    ¡°Of course I don¡¯t mind.¡± Tang Kai released his embrace and smiled, then took his hand. He said softly, ¡°This is all I wished for.¡±


    Sun Zinan felt so weak from his smile that his bones were softening. Forget about the Lu Terrace or the Tongque Terrace, if Tang Kai asked for a spaceshipuncher at this moment, Sun Zinan would be willing to pay for it.


    Just as he was being entranced into this tempest of thoughts all by himself, he heard the dong dong sounds of footsteps and a small figure shot up to the two men like a cannon. His momentum was too strong and he tripped over his left foot and fell with a p in front of Sun Zinan¡¯s foot.


    Sun Zinan jumped back in fright and Tang Kai supported him by his shoulders. The child didn¡¯t cry. He got up and promptly ran back to his parent, hugging his mother¡¯s leg as he said clearly, ¡°Mama, those two uncles are holding hands!¡±


    This child¡¯s voice was very loud and his voice was as noticeable as a trumpet. Hearing his shouts, Sun Zinan put a hand to his forehead in despair.


    The child¡¯s mother smiled awkwardly with an apologetic look in her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry.¡±


    Sun Zinan immediately changed his facial expression and nodded at her politely. ¡°No worries.¡±


    In the next second however, therade standing next to him bent down and stared at the child with a stern, tears-inducing teacher¡¯s face. ¡°Little friend, do you have anyone you like?¡±


    The little boy shook his head in confusion.


    ¡°You hold hands with the person you like.¡± Tang Kai raised their sped hands and shook it in front of the child like he was showing off. ¡°You don¡¯t like anyone, so you don¡¯t understand.¡±


    The little friend, his parent, and Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    Sun Zinan shook off his grip and said earnestly to the child¡¯s bewildered parent, ¡°I¡¯m so sorry.¡±


    By the time the mother and son had turned away, Sun Zinan had stopped floating in the clouds. What straight eyebrows and starry eyes, what immortal deitying down to earth? They were all just beautiful illusions. The more attractive the man, the more deceitful he was.


    Having achieved victory in battle against a child, Tang Kai went off to pick a few toiletries, feeling very pleased with himself. Sun Zinan remained standing where he was, musing deeply for a moment before saying remorsefully, ¡°Kai ah.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°What is it?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°Based on your performance just now, I think you shoplifted your PhD.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°Ah?¡±


    ¡°You bought it at too unreasonable of a price, it¡¯s easy to reveal you cheated.¡± Sun Zinan said anxiously, ¡°I think elementary school curriculum suits you very well.¡±


    How could there be such a person in this world! It was fine to call him childish, but he had to question his intelligence in such a roundabout way!


    Associate professor at this country¡¯s top university and highly intelligent elite Tang Kai, who had never dropped below the top three scores in any exam since he was a child, fumed with rage. ¡°You¡¯re annoying. I¡¯m going to throw a tantrum!¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°What did I say? Your degree was definitely shoplifted.¡±


    Things like shampoo and body wash could be shared, but shaving razors and cups had to be bought separately. Tang Kai stood in front of the row of daily necessities, his expression as careful as if he were analyzing an autopsy table. Sun Zinan could not understand what there was to be indecisive about when buying a towel and toothbrush. He reached over and poked at his sides with a finger. ¡°Professor Tang? You don¡¯t have a phobia of making choices, right?¡±


    Tang Kai said confidently, ¡°Right.¡±


    ¡°Oh my god.¡± Sun Zinan had been tempered by him to the point of exhaustion. He leaned forward and sighed, ¡°Is it okay if you use the same as mine? Let¡¯s fix your OCD a little.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Tang Kai¡¯s response was very contented.


    Sun Zinan quickly dropped a few items into the shopping cart. As Tang Kai ecstatically pushed the cart to the checkout counter, Sun Zinan suddenly felt like he had been tricked. ¡°Were you standing there and waiting for me to choose matching couple items?¡±


    Professor Tang said with a strong sense of righteousness, ¡°Nothing of the sort.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    Sure enough, he had been tricked.


    Tang Kai walked side by side with him, asionally ncing over. Seeing that Sun Zinan was pretending nothing had happened, the corners of his lips quirked up, and he wanted to reach out and hug him again.


    He had always been inside that ivory tower, gazing loftily at the faraway world of mortals. Some people said that the world was a crumbling abyss; others called it an imprable siege. Tang Kai had drifted along its boundaries, unable to enter. Like a person craning their head over the edge of a cliff, he held a lingering, secret longing along with fear.


    And now that he had finally taken a step outside, he was determined to not turn back. He thought he had made enough psychological preparations before jumping down, but who knew that the wind whistling in his ears would be so loud. Yet he fell into a mass of tenderness that was even lighter than clouds.


    They had dyed themselves at the supermarket for a while; by the time they returned home, it was already 7 o¡¯clock. Sun Zinan changed his clothes and put on an apron. He first nimbly handled the duck and simmered it slowly over the fire. Then he made the rice and chopped up the various vegetables and ingredients. Tang Kai had no notion of what it meant to be a guest. He followed Sun Zinan around like a little tail, and Sun Zinan tried multiple times but failed to drive him out. Fortunately, the open kitchen had a lot of space. He wasn¡¯t afraid that the hot pots and oil would burn Tang Kai, so he just let him be.


    Tang Kai washed the fruits and vegetables with dedication. Bathed under the warm yellow light of the kitchen, he listened to the water sshing, the hot soup boiling, and the movements of the spat colliding with the pot. He didn¡¯t need to raise his head to see Sun Zinan¡¯s figure standing in front of the chopping board. The sound of his voice and the fragrance of the kitchen surrounded him like a dense of dust. Breaking free was futile; the more he sank into it the more addicting it became.


    He finished washing the cherries and drained them, then took a paper towel and wiped his hands. He said out of the blue, ¡°I...haven¡¯t been in a kitchen for a long time.¡±


    ¡°En.¡± Sun Zinan didn¡¯t raise his head as he ced the gourd onto a te. ¡°I guessed so. The kitchen drains at your house are probably covered in cobwebs.¡±


    Tang Kai was originally a bit moved, but he was so stirred up he beganughing.


    His parents were both very aplished figures, each working on sessful careers in their own fields. Their son was also intelligent and obedient, and never made anyone worry over his studies and life.


    In the past few years, because their family had not dragged anyone behind, they had not given much thought about each other. The times they ate together at one table each year were few and far between. Tang Kai didn¡¯t have anyints about his parents; in fact, he was very thankful they were so open-minded and respectful. It was just that people always sought to fill up the gaps left by what theycked in childhood. If he could choose something that was too difficult to let go in his almost thirty years of life, something that he couldn¡¯t erase, it wouldn¡¯t be the flowery highlights of his achievements, but the steamy kitchen he was in with the person he was standing side by side with.


    ¡°Did you wash them all?¡± Sun Zinan ced the te of gourd in a steamer and nced at the sink. ¡°Take the fruit to the table and get bowls and chopsticks. Wash your hands and wait for dinner.¡±


    Tang Kai took a cherry from the te and dangled it in front of his mouth. ¡°Have a taste.¡±


    Sun Zinan came over and took it in his mouth. ¡°It¡¯s sweet.¡±


    Tang Kai made an ¡®en¡¯ sound.


    The lights streamed down, leaving a golden, powdery halo at the end of his eyshes. His lowered gaze was too beautiful and Sun Zinan couldn¡¯t hold back his admiration. He pinched the side of Tang Kai¡¯s face. ¡°You¡¯re also sweet.¡±


    Tang Kai was stunned.


    The feeling of his face being pinched was too electric; Sun Zinan¡¯s nails pierced his skin and directly affected his nerves. He immediately turned and ran away like a good housewife who had been teased by some passing man on the streets.


    Sun Zinan rubbed his fingers together and wondered, ¡°You¡¯re embarrassed?¡±


    Dinner was beer braised duck, gourd steamed with garlic and rice noodles, and a seaweed egg drop soup. The packed crystals of rice were steaming with heat. The tes were all in matching designs, organized neatly on the marble dining table. It was both beautiful and pleasing to the eye for those with OCD.


    Tang Kai and Sun Zinan sat across from each other. To each of them, this scene seemed to have be a familiar part of their lives.


    ¡°Try the duck meat; it¡¯s a sess.¡± Sun Zinan had already begun thinking of ways to change up the recipe. ¡°Next time we can try adding some shiitake mushrooms and potatoes.¡±


    As reality proved, Sun Zinan¡¯s talent in cooking could not result in failure, even if he was just reading off a recipe. Tang Kai had tried beer braised duck from a southern snack shop before, and he had also tried the beer braised duck at the school cafeteria. He felt like the product Sun Zinan had created was apletely different dish.


    Restaurants tended to chop the whole duck into multiple pieces and stir fry it. Cooking it at home gave it a more springy, delicate texture. Duck legs were thick and had few bones. They were also tender. Once they were diced into cubes, they could be first nched to remove their gaminess. Heat up some oil with chili peppers for fragrance, then add the duck along with ginger and garlic. After stir frying, one should add beer and rice wine, then simmer it over a small fire until it was ready to bedled onto a te. Each piece of duck meat was evenly coated in a light brown sauce. The fragrance of winepletely masked the gaminess of the duck and created a perfect blend of slight spiciness and richness, without being too oily.


    The steamed gourd with garlic minced meat and rice noodles didn¡¯t require a high level of skill but it was perfectly refreshing to eat in summer; the seaweed egg drop soup had a handful of small dried shrimp, which added an even fresher and richer taste to it. Even though one could barely feel the summer heat in the air-conditioned room, Sun Zinan still tried to stick to seasonal produce when he cooked. He tried to match the ingredients in a way that avoided spoiling their appetites.


    It was evident that the pickiness of a Virgo could only be cured by themselves.


    Tang Kai only had the greatest praise for this meal; he ate everything in his bowl and didn¡¯t pick at anything.


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t eat very much as usual, and Tang Kai volunteered to do the dishes by himself. Sun Zinan didn¡¯t fight him for it and said, ¡°There¡¯s a dishwasher in the kitchen, just put it in there.¡±


    Tang Kai took away the te for bones, and said unsurely, ¡°You don¡¯t need help in the kitchen, don¡¯t need a dishwasher, don¡¯t need a cleaner...Director Sun, are youcking a chauffeur? The type with a PhD?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯tck a driver.¡± Sun Zinanughed leisurely. ¡°But I dock a boyfriend.¡±


    Tang Kai asked unrestrainedly, ¡°What are your requirements?¡±


    ¡°Someone who looks like you would be a good fit.¡±


    As Sun Zinan spoke, he abruptly recalled something he had forgotten in the depths of his mind, and called out to Tang Kai, ¡°Right, are you free next Wednesday night?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m free. What¡¯s up?¡± Tang Kai asked.


    ¡°My old man¡¯s 77th birthday is soon. He called me today and wanted to invite you to his birthday party and meet him.¡± Sun Zinan tended to be a reserved person, and he felt like it wasn¡¯t quite yet time to meet the parents. He was afraid Tang Kai would feel too pressured, so he added, ¡°You don¡¯t have toe, and you don¡¯t have to save me any face. Onlye if you want to¡ªyou won¡¯t get any prizes for attending.¡±


    Facing this attitude, Tang Kai didn¡¯t feel like he should be too serious, nor take it too lightly. ¡°Wasn¡¯t our blind date approved by your dad?¡±


    Sun Zinan nodded.


    ¡°Do you have any particrly difficult second uncles or sister-inws? Any ex-girlfriends everyone still likes? Or any children with your ex-wife back at home?¡±


    Sun Zinan gave him a kick under the table. ¡°What nonsense are you spouting?¡±


    ¡°Then that¡¯s that.¡± Tang Kai smiled as he said, ¡°We¡¯ve eaten together, and we¡¯re about to sleep together. Since I¡¯ve be your honorable boyfriend, why shouldn¡¯t I go when invited?¡±

 Chapter 14 - Drunk Off Beer Braised Duck

    <h4>Chapter 14 - Drunk Off Beer Braised Duck</h4>


    One couldn¡¯t assume Professor Tang was the quiet, unassuming man he looked like. He was very open-minded at critical moments.


    Sun Zinan was shocked by his answer, and asked seriously, ¡°I thought you highly educated bunch...aren¡¯t used to interacting with a crowd of strangers?¡±


    Tang Kai didn¡¯t mind this question. ¡°It¡¯s your family, not strangers.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°Don¡¯t say I didn¡¯t warn you...just because they¡¯re my family doesn¡¯t mean they¡¯ll be friendly.¡±


    Tang Kai waved his hand. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, worst case scenario I¡¯ll just give them a lecture on how gics research can help them achieve a long life. Let me tell you, there¡¯s no entrepreneur out there who wouldn¡¯t like learning about that, it¡¯s a sure-fire conquest n.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    Damn, this guy could get drunk from eating beer braised duck.


    He turned away, refusing to listen to Tang Kai¡¯s nonsense anymore.


    That evening, the two of them shared the living room and a bowl of cherries. Sun Zinan replied to a few emails and checked the American stock market while Tang Kai randomly picked a documentary to put on in the background as he flipped through an academic article. This was the quiet world of adults, breathing together but not disturbing each other. Due to the presence of an additional person, the big apartment seemed to hold a different sense of liveliness.


    At 11 o¡¯clock, the two of them bid each other goodnight, then each went to shower and sleep in their separate rooms. Early the next morning, Sun Zinan entered the kitchen and found a note stuck on the fridge from Tang Kai saying to not worry, he had gone outside to exercise. A feeling of bing a traveling frog making food welled up inside him as he read the note, and he cooked up an extrarge te of egg fried rice for Tang Kai.


    Tang Kai came back at 7 o¡¯clock sharp, his skin covered in a sheen of sweat from his workout. His refined demeanor wasn¡¯t so polished anymore, his hormones on the brink of exploding. Although Sun Zinan didn¡¯t like exercising, it didn¡¯t stop him from appreciating his beautiful figure. He sneakily checked the other out for a moment, then greeted him. ¡°Go shower first thene back for breakfast.¡±


    Even though Tang Kai was on vacation, hisb was still running on schedule. He still had to go to work that day, just not at the usual time. He went and showered, then changed into a shirt and pair of pants. Hebed his hair back and put on a pair of rimless sses, looking like a cold, ascetic intellectual.


    The first time Sun Zinan had met him, he had felt that this person was harsh and unyielding, difficult to fend off. Sometimes, he felt like Tang Kai seemed more like apany director than he did. But when he sat down at the table, his image copsed. ¡°The egg fried rice smells so good.¡±


    Sun Zinan skimmed through the morning news and nced at him condescendingly as if he were a peasant. ¡°I practice thirty nine times in the winter and prostrate myself three times in the summer. I have stamina.¡±


    Tang Kai replied, ¡°It only takes twenty eight days to establish a habit. It¡¯s not difficult afterwards. If you¡¯re interested you can try.¡±


    ¡°No thanks.¡± Sun Zinan declined politely, ¡°I¡¯m fine with cultivating my Qi.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°&#k2026;Okay.¡±


    If this person had been born in historical times, he would¡¯ve definitely been a good-for-nothing fool.


    At seven thirty, the two of them left the house together to go to work. Tang Kai drove Sun Zinan to hispany and arranged to pick him up again at night. The next day was the weekend; they couldfortably stay at home the entire day.


    No wonder it was said that as long as one ate a good breakfast, their entire day would be free of worries. Despite being stuck in traffic on the Third Ring, Tang Kai remained unnaturally calm, and even took the time to wonder if he was sinking deeper and deeper into this quicksand named ¡®Sun Zinan.¡¯


    He was self-aware and very clearly understood his own personality. He was alert, withdrawn, but sensitive to feelings. Normally, if circumstances allowed it, Tang Kai preferred to be alone without a single person by his side. Butst night, not only had he spent twelve hours in the same room with Sun Zinan with another seven days together promised, but he had also agreed to go to his old father-inw¡¯s birthday banquet.


    Ever since he had reached puberty, he had rarely taken the initiative to do something solely to make someone happy. Maybe Sun Zinan himself was an addicting drug, numbing his soul until he didn¡¯t even know what day it was anymore.


    As the traffic slowly inched forward, Tang Kai grasped at the steering wheel and thought to himself, maybe he should consider buying a t located in between campus and Sun Zinan¡¯spany.


    After the weekend passed by, it was Hongsen Group¡¯s chairman Sun Ying¡¯s 77th birthday banquet. The gathering was held at the Sun family¡¯s vi at the banks of Pingjin Lake. Sun Zinan picked up Tang Kai after work that day and the two of them drove over. Sun Zinan didn¡¯t say much on the way. He made the excuse that ¡®it¡¯s not good to be distracted while driving,¡¯ but Tang Kai could tell that he wasn¡¯t in a very good mood.


    Tang Kai had asked his father about the Sun family¡¯s circumstances before, and knew that Sun Zinan¡¯s rtionship with them was only so-so. But he had no idea how so-so it was. In the times the two of them had interacted with each other, Sun Zinan had never taken the initiative to mention it, so Tang Kai hadn¡¯t felt like it was proper to bring it up.


    Hongsen Group was one of the biggest businesses in S City. Needless to say, Pingjin Lake was basically their private back garden. The car pulled up into the courtyard and drove unobstructed down the path for five minutes before reaching the main door. Under the deep navy night, the entire vi was lit up, its reflection like a castle on the shore of theke. The sound of stringed instruments floated from the lobby like a dreamy illusion of luxury and beauty.


    ¡°If I didn¡¯t know any better, I would¡¯ve thought a king or emperor was hosting a banquet.¡± Sun Zinan flung the car door open and got off. Hemented harshly into the evening breeze, ¡°It¡¯s a European-style party. How original. In a while, the string orchestra will y a waltz¡ªit¡¯ll be even more perfect.¡±


    Tang Kai felt like he wasforting a bristling, puffed-up cat. He sped Sun Zinan¡¯s shoulders and lowered his voice. ¡°Little family heir, this is your father¡¯s birthday banquet, give him some face.¡±


    Sun Zinan ¡®hmphed¡¯ coldly.


    The vi was crowded with guests, food and wine flowing freely. There were many elites present from all walks of life. Sun Ying wore a dark red patterned formal suit, his back bent over in old age. He sat on a wheelchair pushed by his secretary and entered the living room.


    Sun Zinan hadn¡¯t gone home in a while and didn¡¯t know when his father had begun using a wheelchair. He was shocked at this sight and hurried over to ask, ¡°What happened? What¡¯s wrong with your legs?¡±


    Secretary Wang smiled cidly and responded, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. The chairman is getting old and he can¡¯t stand and talk for that long anymore. That¡¯s why he¡¯s sitting in a wheelchair.¡±


    Only then did Sun Zinan breathe a sigh of relief and present his gift. ¡°As long as it¡¯s nothing. Dad, happy birthday.¡±


    Sun Ying nodded, too distracted to pay attention to him. His attention waspletely focused on the man standing behind Sun Zinan. ¡°This person is...¡±


    Sun Zinan edged away to move out of the way. Tang Kai walked forward and leaned over slightly, seemingly bowing. He introduced himself politely, ¡°Hello Uncle, I¡¯m Tang Kai, Little Nan¡¯s boyfriend.¡±


    The surrounding conversations all dropped audibly by a bit, and the guests secretly turned their ears towards them.


    The only one who could not bear to continue looking straight ahead was Sun Zinan. The ¡®Little Nan¡¯ nickname had made his entire body go numb.


    Everyone who was familiar with the Sun family knew there was a little son who had strayed from themon path and left the family years ago. Although same-sex marriage was now legal, rich business families still looked for those who could provide an heir. It was shocking that Sun Ying would let him be with a man. They had never heard of Sun Zinan having a boyfriend before¡ªwho would have thought he would openly lead a man into the house today?


    This was Sun Ying¡¯s birthday party. Wasn¡¯t he afraid of angering the old man?


    Outsiders didn¡¯t understand the situation, but the Sun family was very clear about what was going on. Sun Ying approached Tang Kai with a rarely seen kindness. ¡°I¡¯m old friends with your father, but this is my first time meeting you. Thisd seems decent, seems like he has boundless prospects.¡±


    Sun Zinan couldn¡¯t help but raise an eyebrow. Tang Kai was veryposed and replied modestly, ¡°My father always mentions you. It¡¯s a pity he couldn¡¯t find the time today toe over. He asked me to greet you instead. May you be as blessed as the East Sea and live as long as the Southern Mountain.¡±


    Sun Ying nodded in satisfaction. ¡°Please also return that message to your father. You young ones should go and socialize some more. Make yourself at home.¡±


    The greetings ended, and Sun Ying turned away to entertain other guests. But the amount of information present in the few short phrases they had spoken to each other was enough to push Tang Kai under a small spotlight.


    Sun Ying had been good friends with Tang Kai¡¯s father for a long time; not only was he willing to ept Tang Kai and Sun Zinan, but he was even happy to see them together. In other words, this was a union of two families, not just a simple marriage.


    The question was, which family stood behind Tang Kai?


    In the local industry, it didn¡¯t seem like there was anyone surnamed Tang who could do business with the Sun family?


    With these questions festering in their minds, many people tried to find an opportunity to chat with Tang Kai. He didn¡¯t even have the chance to say a few secretive words to Sun Zinan before he was overwhelmed by a steady stream of guests.


    Tang Kai used his immortality scheme; if one came by he would scam them, if two came by he would scam both. He was so tired from talking that his throat was smoking and his mouth dry. At this critical juncture, someone passed him a cup of water from the side and he hurriedly took it and found a deserted ce to sneakily drink.


    ¡°You take anything anyone offers you.¡± Sun Zinan walked up slowly and stuffed a few cherries into his hand. ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid someone might¡¯ve drugged your water?¡±


    He had drunk a little wine, and the corners of his eyes burned red and hot. The pair of phoenix-like eyes glowed with even more tenderness than before. Although his face didn¡¯t show it, his eyes held a smile.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Tang Kai sucked at the cherry in his mouth, and his heart skipped a beat. ¡°After you drug me, what happens?¡±


    Sun Zinan pondered the question seriously. ¡°I¡¯ll lock you in a small dark room.¡±


    Tang Kai enthusiastically followed up. ¡°Is that so?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°What are you thinking about, did you forget what I do? I¡¯ll lock you in a small dark room so you can do research for me. Go and study some techniques for reaching immortality.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°...¡±


    Sun Zinan thought his doggedly staring expression was very amusing. Now that he was satisfied from teasing him, he returned to important matters. ¡°After talking to all these people, how do you feel?¡±


    Tang Kai wasn¡¯t very interested in the people outside the Sun family; his curiosity was concentrated solely on the actual members of the family.


    The eldest son of the Sun Family, Sun Ziyuan, had two sons. The eldest was called Sun Qi and the youngest was Sun Cong. The two nephews were almost as old as Sun Zinan. If nothing else happened, Sun Ziyuan would be the future chairman of the group. However, Sun Ying had yet to fully relinquish his position, leaving his son in the awkward position of Prince Charles. Tang Kai had a fairly good opinion towards him. Sun Ziyuan spoke politely, acted gracefully, and was very steady. He didn¡¯t look very aggressive and waspletely unlike his father.


    The second son, Sun Ziqing, had a bit of a greasy temperament. He was a cheerful man who, at first nce, looked like the experienced master of the dining table and wine shops. The Sun family¡¯s excellent genes failed to save his beer belly and receding hairline. His wife was very elegant and well-educated. She was a famous entrepreneur whom even Tang Kai had heard of.


    Sun Zinan¡¯s third brother Sun Ziyan and his only older sister Sun Ziyi were both almost forty. They were still like spoiled little children. Sun Ziyan was arrogant and conceited, Sun Ziyi had been so spoiled she didn¡¯t understand the immensity of the world. The two unted Sun Zinan¡¯s outcast status so tantly that Tang Kai had to persevere in keeping his mouth shut. He did not get along with this brother and sister-inw pair. It wasn¡¯t clear whether Sun Zinan was toozy to contest them or was already numb to their actions. From start to finish, he didn¡¯t open his eyes to look at those two even once.


    Overall, the family situation was all within Tang Kai¡¯s expectations. The only thing that made him slightly surprised was Sun Ying¡¯s kindness towards him. This old man was nearly eighty, but he was still full of vigor, full of the power he had held within his grasp for many years. Stubbornness, control, and the power to make arbitrary decisions were all etched into every crease on his face. Like a domineering and sombre old hawk, although he looked listless, he was always ready to give a fatal blow.


    But there was something else that had caught Tang Kai¡¯s attention.


    This household seemed tock a hostess.


    Within this magnificent vi, in any ce one could find a photo, one could only see pictures of Sun Ying or groups of his children. It was as if...this family had never had a mother.

 Chapter 15 - The Two of Us Are Over

    <h4>Chapter 15 - The Two of Us Are Over</h4>


    Tang Kai didn¡¯t immediately raise his findings to Sun Zinan because he wasn¡¯t sure if it was a taboo topic. He thought about it for a while, then sincerely let out a sigh. ¡°After meeting your siblings, I think I like you even more now, especially whenpared to them.¡±


    Sun Zinan¡¯s reactions were slow from the wine and he stared dumbly for quite a few seconds before returning to his senses. Heughed and scolded, ¡°Go to hell.¡± ¡±


    Tang Kai alsoughed and scooted over to gently wrap his arms around him, asking in a low voice, ¡°We¡¯ve both drunk tonight, how are we going to get back, does your family have enough chauffeurs?¡±


    Sun Zinan likewise replied in a low voice, ¡°We can just stay a night here. There are plenty of rooms anyways.¡±


    Tang Kai continued in his low voice, ¡°Then can I apply to stay in the room next to yours?¡±


    Sun Zinan asked lowly, ¡°For what?¡±


    Tang Kai said quietly, ¡°To chat with you in the middle of the night.¡±


    Sun Zinan gave his lower back a p. ¡°You¡¯re crazy!¡±


    Tang Kai buried his face in his shoulder, silentlyughing to himself for a while.


    Sun Ying was getting too old to stay upte. He interacted with the others in the living room for a while, then excused himself, saying that he was exhausted. Secretary Wang took him back to his room to rest. Not long after, Sun Zinan received a call. It was too loud downstairs, so he took his phone and walked upstairs to the second floor, looking for a quiet ce to take the call.


    The hallway lights were dimly lit and the din of the living room was barricaded by the floorboards and thick carpet. It was quiet all around. He felt his phone vibrating in his hand and was about to answer it when he caught a glimpse of a streak of light in the corner of his vision. It came from the cracks of the tightly-shut door of the study.


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t pay it much attention and returned to picking up his call. However, the other party had already hung up because he had taken so long to respond.


    Ka, the second hand clicked forward.


    Everything paused coincidentally at this moment; the phone vibrations in his hand came to a halt and theughter downstairs receded, creating a delicate gap of stillness. The sudden silence amplified the faint murmur of conversation from within the study. Sun Ying¡¯s elderly, hoarse voice was like an awl, piercing him bluntly in the ribs.


    ¡°...First release Tang Kai¡¯s identity to the public. For the sake of his father¡¯s face, Ding Fu should open his mouth. Find a time to make an appointment with him.¡±


    Secretary Wang¡¯s voice, ¡°Yes, sir. But Chairman, if this matter drags on for another half month, if we can¡¯t repress it, it will have a very big impact on Hongsen¡¯s reputation.¡±


    Sun Ying made an ¡®en¡¯ sound. ¡°We¡¯d better have the two of them get married quickly. Once we¡¯re rtives of Tang Zhenhua, everything will be easy to deal with.¡±


    Dang dang, two knocks resounded on the door. The Sun Ying and Secretary Wang who were deeply engaged in conversation both startled, uniformly turning their heads towards the entrance of the study. Sun Zinan leanedzily against the door-frame, his shirt unbuttoned at the cor, looking like a wealthy prince as he asked, ¡°The two of you are still awake at this hour¡ªwhat are you chatting about?¡±


    Sun Ying didn¡¯t know how much he had heard and replied in slight irritation, ¡°Not following the rules, who let you in!¡±


    Sun Zinan coldly tugged a corner of his lips upwards. ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid of ghosts knocking at the door if you haven¡¯t done anything wrong. Dad, why are you so nervous?¡±


    Sun Ying¡¯s expression sank darkly. ¡°Get out.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not here to interrupt your important discussion, please go ahead.¡± Sun Zinan said openly, ¡°But since I¡¯m the object of your arrangements, I should be able to listen to the reasoning right?¡±


    Sun Ying replied impatiently, ¡°You drank too much. Wang Tian, take him out.¡±


    A frigid smile had stiffened onto Sun Zinan¡¯s lips. He suddenly said, ¡°Dad, there¡¯s something I¡¯ve been meaning to ask you for a long time. I call you Dad, but you...do you really think of me as your son?¡±


    The living room on the first floor.


    Tang Kai came out of the bathroom and went through a side door back into the living room. As he walked in the shadows under the staircase, he suddenly heard a subdued, whispered conversation from behind the pirs. ¡°No wonder...turns out he¡¯s Tang Zhenhua¡¯s son.¡±


    ¡°Tang Zhenhua? The one from our province?¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± someone replied. ¡°Sun Ying¡¯s son is pretty impressive. Even though he¡¯s gay he still managed to get Tang Zhenhua¡¯s son.¡±


    ¡°Who did you hear this from? I just asked him, he said his father does business.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s obviously being lowkey about it. But their family¡¯s third son just identally let it slip out. The two of them were set up by Sun Ying.¡±


    ¡°Makes sense, there was a huge safety ident at Hongsen¡¯s factory recently, and they¡¯re currently being investigated by the higher-ups. With this, won¡¯t they be protected?¡±


    ¡°Exactly. Even if you escte it to the authorities, it¡¯ll still get repressed when it reaches the level of the province. Can Tang Zhenhua ignore his own son?¡±


    ¡°The breeze is cool when you¡¯re leaning against a big tree...¡±


    Although Tang Kai was not involved in business or politics, he still had a clear understanding of these matters. He only needed a bit of reasoning to understand that the Sun family was borrowing his father¡¯s influence to make a g out of tiger¡¯s skin.


    Even though he already knew that there was a subtle, lurking motive behind their blind dates, hidden rules were hidden rules and they had a tacit understanding to not mention it. Once the truth of the matter was exposed, it became very disgusting.


    Then what about Sun Zinan? What role did he y in this? How much did he know, and how much was he involved in?


    Tang Kai frowned as he surveyed the entire scene. He couldn¡¯t find Sun Zinan and thought to himself, should making a phone call take this long?


    The staircase to the second floor was right next to him. Tang Kai borrowed some courage from the wine and aggressively rushed upstairs. He hadn¡¯t even figured out what he was going to say once he found Sun Zinan. Should he question him on the spot and make him exin, or trust that Sun Zinan wouldn¡¯t fool him and pretend that nothing had happened?


    If, by any chance, this had been set up by Sun Zinan, what should he do?


    Tang Kai¡¯s heart was in aplete mess of confusion. When he reached the final step, he had the sudden urge to turn back and run away. But as soon as he stepped into the hallway, he heard the sounds of a violent quarrel through a door.


    ¡°Oh my god!¡± Sun Ying roared at Sun Zinan, ¡°You better get out!¡±


    ¡°I told you we didn¡¯t want toe, but you¡¯re the one who begged us toe,¡± Sun Zinan replied. ¡°I was wondering why you had suddenly be so hospitable. After so much trouble you¡¯ve been waiting here for me! Dad, don¡¯t me me for my harsh words. What rtion does Tang Kai have with you? How could our family bear losing our face and intrude on them?¡±


    ¡°I think you¡¯ve been thoroughly confused by Tang Kai!¡± Sun Ying said, ¡°Sun Zinan, can you recognize your own rtives? I¡¯m doing this for Hongsen, for our family! What about you? You¡¯re rebelling against me for the sake of an outsider! You¡¯re as unscrupulous as a wolf, and don¡¯t know the difference between what¡¯s good and bad!¡±


    In the hallway, Tang Kai was rooted in ce.


    Sun Ying had stepped on all his exploding points but Sun Zinan still had to suppress his temper. ¡°Fine, I don¡¯t have any conscience, I¡¯m a bastard, but I¡¯m the ungrateful, vicious wolf you raised, okay? I don¡¯t have anything else to say except this¡ªdon¡¯t have any ulterior motives towards Tang Kai, he¡¯s just a poor teacher. He doesn¡¯t walk the same path as we do; he¡¯s clean and tidy. Wouldn¡¯t it be a shame if you dragged him down?¡±


    Sun Ying gave a hoot in derision. ¡°You think Tang Kai has clean motives? Why don¡¯t you think about why he chose you? Because you¡¯re my son! Why else would he pay attention to you?


    Sun Zinan sneered, ¡°Not necessarily. Why don¡¯t you try it with my third brother, see if he wants him?¡±


    His words touched a nerve. The atmosphere in the study abruptly solidified, like a silentyer of frost appearing in the middle of the night.


    ¡°Since he actually appeared today, others will find out who he is.¡± Sun Ying said pitilessly, ¡°You should be using this time to think about how you¡¯re going to maintain a good rtionship with him and get married as soon as possible. You¡¯re on the same boat as the Sun family. Our glory is your glory, our ruin your ruin. Don¡¯t do anything stupid that¡¯ll devastate both sides.¡±


    ¡°That doesn¡¯t make any fucking sense, I got it.¡± Sun Zinan couldn¡¯t repress his anger any longer, finally furious to the point of going crazy. He kicked the study door open. ¡°If you want to curry favor with an official, go fucking love whoever the fuck you want;ozi won¡¯t wait upon you anymore!¡±


    The wooden door that had been kicked against the wall bounced back. With a loud bang, Sun Zinan strode out of the study with a tempest burning in his brows and eyes, running face-to-face into the Tang Kai in the hallway who hadn¡¯t had the time to run away.


    Tang Kai, ¡°...¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    The taste of that moment was almost indescribable. Sun Zinan was carrying a handful of boiling magma within his heart and currently emitting sparks of furor, but the sight of Tang Kai was like a wave of cold water poured all over his face. The effect was no different than triggering an earth-quaking explosion in his chest; he was lucky to not have fainted on site.


    He had drunk alcohol and stirred up rage. His blood pressure had been going up; with this sudden shock, he could only feel the blood rushing to the top of his head, but his heart was filled with an almost sadness at his powerlessness.


    The heavens and earth were spinning in front of his eyes, the four walls shrinking towards him. Only then did he feel like he couldn¡¯t breathe, and unconsciously raised his hand to press against his heart. He staggered and fell towards the wall.


    Tang Kai rushed up and caught Sun Zinan.


    The man¡¯s eyes were half-closed, his forehead covered with cold sweat. His chest heaved rapidly, gasping for breath, but his lips were marked by signs ofcking oxygen. Tang Kai rubbed vigorously at his back to ease his breathing and saw that Sun Zinan was still lucid despite not being able to catch his breath. He asked hurriedly, ¡°Don¡¯t panic...what¡¯s wrong? Where do you feel ufortable? Calm down, breathe slowly!¡±


    Sun Zinan pressed firmly down on his chest, refusing to let go. His five fingers almost pierced through his flesh. Tang Kai was afraid of angina so he quickly scooped up Sun Zinan¡¯s legs and carried him to the windowsill. ¡°Open the window!¡±


    Secretary Wang, who had followed Sun Zinan out, saw that something was not right and immediately ran over to help.


    The window at the front of the hallway was forcefully pushed open and the cool night breeze rolled in with the scent of perfume. Sun Zinan strenuously took in a few deep breaths, the sufficient amount of oxygen relieving the feeling of suffocation in his chest. The stifling sensation that had left his mind nk slowly dissipated and his breathing gradually stabilized into the pattern of Tang Kai¡¯s hand rubbing at his back.


    ¡°Keep the rhythm of your breathing in check, slowly, take a deep breath...¡± Tang Kai supported his back with one hand and checked his pulse with the other. He felt like his soul was about to fly out. ¡°You¡¯re trying to scare me to death.¡±


    Sun Zinan shook his head, motioning that he was fine now.


    Tang Kai was unable to turn his body, so he twisted his neck around and said to Wang Tian, ¡°Call for a doctor.¡±


    Sun Zinan was sweating heavily, his face as white as paper. He asked in a weak, hoarse voice, ¡°How much did you hear?¡±


    ¡°Ah?¡±


    Sun Zinan said slowly, ¡°We were arguing in the study. Did you hear all of it?¡±


    ¡°...I did.¡± Tang Kai felt a little embarrassed, but he still replied honestly, ¡°Starting from when your dad told you to get out.¡±


    The hallway subtly quieted down.


    Sun Zinan tried to recall the order of events, but his brain hadpletely been mashed into a mess. It took all his effort to retain a single clear line of logic, so he gave up on thinking about it and said directly, ¡°That¡¯s fine, saves me the effort from exining again...we¡¯re over, you should go home.¡±


    There was a fragility in his voice, but every word was filled with fatality, striking the ground with holes.


    Sun Ying and Secretary Wang were frantic to the point of wanting to pounce on him to cover his mouth. However, while it was not too bad discussing this behind Tang Kai¡¯s back, it became awkward and embarrassing when they had been exposed in front of him. Additionally, Sun Ying¡¯s remark that Tang Kai was an ¡®outsider¡¯ had been heard by Tang Kai himself. Opening their mouths would only bring contempt upon themselves; there was nothing good that coulde to fruition.


    When Tang Kai heard Sun Zinan¡¯s words, he gazed at him deeply.


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t even look at him. He leaned back against the window, trying to calm himself with the icy coldness of the ss. His fingers dug forcefully at the windowsill, his veins showing. He was unaware of his own trembling.


    ¡°Say that again?¡±


    ¡°I said, from now on.¡± Sun Zinan was bathed in the soft, silky moonlight under the window, but the words he spoke were merciless. ¡°The two of us have broken up.¡±

 Chapter 16 - Can You Stop Talking

    <h4>Chapter 16 - Can You Stop Talking</h4>


    ¡°I refuse.¡±


    Tang Kai stated his answer in a crisp and clear manner.


    He pressed down on Sun Zinan¡¯s knees and separated them, forcing his way between his two legs. Their upper bodies were suddenly pressed very closely together. Sun Zinan was sitting on the windowsill so he was currently about a head taller than Tang Kai. He could only look down at him.


    ¡°I won¡¯t believe anything you say under an irrational state.¡± Tang Kai grasped his thin, cold hand that felt like a block of ice. He felt that this person¡¯s brave face was a little pitiful. He sighed in frustration and reached out to embrace him.


    His gentleness was overwhelming and for a moment, Sun Zinan was unable to differentiate whether he was in reality or a dream.


    After receiving a thunderous scare, Sun Zinan¡¯s brain had be a wooden block, and he seemed to have lost all ability to stir up any emotions for the time being. Love, hate, joy, anger. They had all been shut out by a thick ss wall; saying ¡®let¡¯s break up¡¯ hadn¡¯t been that upsetting. To tell the truth, he really did like Tang Kai quite a bit, which was why he didn¡¯t want to watch the two of them walk down the path of ending their rtionship in mutual dislike. But Tang Kai¡¯s reaction hadpletely exceeded his expectations.


    ¡°Don¡¯t rush, and don¡¯t be afraid. What can¡¯t we discuss?¡± Tang Kai gently patted Sun Zinan¡¯s back, his voice warm and soft as if he were coaxing a child. ¡°You didn¡¯t even ask before giving it up, that breaks my heart.¡±


    The phrase ¡®breaks my heart¡¯ atst reached him. A fine crack appeared on theyer of ice. All his consciousness gushed out like a stream of water, gradually spreading out to his four limbs.


    His chest instantly rxed, as if he had expelled out a breath of freezing cold. His entire person had revived.


    Sun Zinan¡¯s entire body softened, but Tang Kai¡¯s arms were strong, and his silent firmness seemed to reach all the way to his heart, parting him with the same strength.


    His stiffness melted within Tang Kai¡¯s embrace. Sun Zinan hugged him back and buried his face into his warm, dry neck. Like an exhausted little animal who had finally found a nest that wouldst through his winter hibernation, all his pent up suffering and grievances rose once again. Tang Kai even heard a vague, low sob.


    There was probably no one else in this world who could make him this softhearted, almost to the point of pain.


    After they had recovered for a while, Tang Kai took him down from the windowsill. Sun Zinan¡¯s feet were still weak as hended, and he was immediately swept up into a princess carry.


    Tang Kai asked Secretary Wang, who was standing behind him. ¡°Excuse me, which room is his?¡±


    Before Secretary Wang even opened his mouth, Sun Zinan said in a low voice, ¡°Straight ahead, second tost room at the end of the hallway. Put me down, I¡¯ll walk by myself.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°Not putting down, don¡¯t fuss.¡±


    He nodded to Secretary Wang, then strode across the hallway. This person carried a 1.8m tall young man with ease, and even had the strength remaining to idly chat with him. ¡°With this kind of physique, how could you sell health products? Those old men and olddies are all more capable than you.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t stay at home very often. Apart from a few personal items, his room wasn¡¯t very different from a guest room.


    Tang Kai set him on his bed in a sitting position, then naturally squatted down to untie his shoes for him. Sun Zinan was horrified and almost kicked him out of the way. ¡°Don¡¯t! I¡¯ll do it myself...¡±


    ¡°Stay still.¡± Tang Kai grabbed at his ankle. ¡°It¡¯s not like I¡¯m changing your clothes. What are you nervous about?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°I¡¯m fine now.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough, don¡¯t be picky about cleanliness right now. Go lie down.¡± Tang Kai held up his two, long legs and ced them in a half-fetal position. ¡°Whether or not you¡¯re fine is up to the doctor. Wait here, I¡¯ll get a cup of hot water.¡±


    Sun Zinan was unable to stop him in time and could only unblinkingly watch him walk out.


    Really&#k2026;


    How could this kind of person not find a partner? It was simply unbelievable.


    After a while, Tang Kai returned with hot water and set it down by his bed. ¡°I just ran into your dad¡¯s secretary, he said the doctor will arrive in a bit. How do you feel now? Are you still ufortable?¡±


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t want to stir up amotion and said, ¡°I¡¯m not ufortable, there¡¯s nothing wrong. I was just emotional earlier. I¡¯ll go to the hospital by myself tomorrow. Let¡¯s not bother everyone too much in the middle of the night.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t.¡± Tang Kai grasped at his icy cold, numb fingertips and rubbed at them, speaking lowly, ¡°If you get sick in the middle of the night, do you expect me to give you artificial respiration?¡±


    Sun Zinan squeezed out a weakugh. He didn¡¯t have the strength to break free, so he let him continue rubbing. ¡°You don¡¯t want to ask anything while there¡¯s no one around?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d like to ask,¡± Tang Kai said while letting out a sigh, ¡°if you could just obediently lie down and rest and stop talking?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    It was a long time before he let out a low chuckle. He wasn¡¯t sure if it was out of helplessness or indulgence. ¡°Ai, I can¡¯t win against you. I¡¯ll shut up now.¡±


    Tang Kai pulled the quilt over and wrapped him tightly within. He replied expressionlessly, ¡°That would be great.¡±


    About half an hourter, the family doctor rushed in. He tested Sun Zinan¡¯s blood pressure and felt his pause for a long time before telling Tang Kai with uncertainty, ¡°Based on the symptoms you described earlier, it seems like an emotion-induced attack. Too much emotional agitation will cause a physiological reaction. As to whether there are issues with the heart or other organs, I can¡¯t tell right now. He should go to the hospital tomorrow and get it checked.¡±


    Tang Kai asked, ¡°Does he need to take any medicine tonight?¡±


    ¡°For now, no.¡± The doctor replied, ¡°Just stay in bed and remain calm. Go to the internal medicine department tomorrow for an EKG or a color chart, then take a chest x-ray. Also, it¡¯s best to apany and keep an eye on him tonight.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Tang Kai got up and sent the doctor out. ¡°Thank you, we¡¯ve troubled you.¡±


    Secretary Wang, who had been standing by the door, took his ce and walked the doctor downstairs. Tang Kai shut the door, then sat down beside Sun Zinan¡¯s bed. He didn¡¯t rebuke him this time. ¡°It doesn¡¯t seem like you have a heart disease. Don¡¯t worry, rest well, I¡¯ll go with you to the hospital tomorrow.¡±


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t think heart disease was that big of a deal, but he saw that Tang Kai looked quite worried, so agreed obediently, ¡°Okay. Professor Tang, may I get up and change now?¡±


    Tang Kai gently pressed down on the quilt. ¡°Where are your pajamas? I¡¯ll go get them for you.¡±


    Sun Zinan pointed at his wardrobe. ¡°On the left. You can also take a set and wear it for now. There¡¯s unopened new packs of underwear in the drawer below.¡±


    Tang Kai¡¯s hand, which was holding onto the wardrobe¡¯s door, stiffened slightly.


    Sun Zinan continued without sensing anything was off, ¡°I don¡¯t think I can shower tonight, you can use the bathroom as you like. I¡¯ll have people bring up some new toiletries for you in a bit.¡±


    This was undoubtedly an invitation for him to stay.


    Tang Kai¡¯s facial expression showed no signs of surprise, but the winds and clouds of his heart were chaotically changing colors. He faced the dark wardrobe and soothed the weather for a long while before adjusting his thoughts and taking out a set of pajamas for Sun Zinan.


    He was still a gentleman; while Sun Zinan changed, he voluntarily entered the bathroom. After he took a shower, dried his hair, and changed into pajamas, he heard the door of the bedroom click shut. Tang Kai subconsciously nced over at Sun Zinan. ¡°Did someonee?¡±


    ¡°Family servants.¡± Sun Zinan leaned back against his soft pillow and replied, ¡°I just remembered you haven¡¯t eaten dinner yet so I called someone to bring ate-night snack.¡±


    Tang Kai couldn¡¯t resist reaching out and rubbing at his face. ¡°Stop worrying so much.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s part of a Virgo¡¯s personality, please be tolerant.¡± Su Zinan seized the back of his hand. ¡°You wait for the food, I¡¯ll go wash up and brush my teeth.¡±


    ¡°Are you not going to eat?¡± Tang Kai asked.


    Sun Zinan shook his head. Tang Kai supported him off the bed. He walked a few steps and felt that he was fine other than a little weakness. He entered the bathroom on his own. Tang Kai didn¡¯t feel at ease and stared at the door as he pricked up his ears, paying attention to the movements inside the bathroom.


    It was only then that he had enough time to reflect on the sequence of events of the night. The causes and effects had been mostly settled, but they werecking a few specifics. The Sun family¡¯s business had met with a problem, so they wanted to take advantage of his father¡¯s potential to stop their crises. So that was why they had made ns for tonight¡¯s birthday banquet: high-profile introductions, then secretly analyzing his identity. This could slightly reverse the negative impacts of their n. The next step would be to urge the two of them to get married quickly. That way, the Tang family wouldpletely be a refuge for the Sun family. As long as his father didn¡¯t fall from power, the Sun family would have no worries.


    It was just that Sun Ying probably didn¡¯t expect this n to arouse such strong opposition from Sun Zinan. He had even been overheard by Tang Kai; everything was now very awkward.


    At this point, the most likely oue was that he and Sun Zinan would break up. Not only had Sun Ying failed to get along with the Tang family, he had offended them. He was going to be scorched by their mes for a long period of time.


    But¡ª


    He looked towards the unlocked bathroom door.


    Tang Kai used to think he was an unchangeable perfectionist and idealistic sentimentalist with OCD and mysophobia. But strangely enough, every time he made a decision regarding Sun Zinan, he was cautious to the point of making sure he ¡®didn¡¯t break the jade bottle while beating the rat.¡¯ He was even able to look away from his ws and focus on ¡®how good this person is.¡¯


    It was probably because love blinded people, reset them back to zero, turned their souls upside down...but he was unable to free himself.


    After a while a maid knocked on the door, carrying a bowl of hot and steaming beef noodle soup and a few saucers of pickled vegetables. It looked very appetizing. Sun Zinan coincidentally opened the door to the bathroom at that moment. For a moment, he couldn¡¯t stand the smell of the grease, and wrinkled his brows. ¡°Huo, what a strong smell.¡±


    With his pickiness, Sun Zinan obviously couldn¡¯t stand eating inside the bedroom. Tang Kai was about to say he could go outside and eat when Sun Zinan told the maid, ¡°Go ventte the room.¡± He then turned to Tang Kai and said, ¡°Eat your food, if it¡¯s not enough then have them make more. Don¡¯t be polite.¡±


    He had recovered a bit of his spirits by now. Just lying on the bed was too uninteresting, so he randomly picked out a movie to relieve his boredom. His mind ran through the chaotic jumble of the tumultuous drama from earlier.


    He had been frightened by the sight of Tang Kai after mming the door open. Now that he thought about it, Tang Kai had heard the entirety of thetter half of the argument. He shouldn¡¯t have any misunderstandings towards him. But it was indisputable that Sun Ying had created a n to rub off of the Tang family¡¯s reputation. This point could not be reconciled. Even if Tang Kai showed some face for him and didn¡¯t rip into the Sun family on site, when Tang Zhenhua learned of this news, how would he view him and the entire Sun family?


    ¡®Our glory is your glory¡¯ was very difficult, but ¡®our ruin is your ruin¡¯ was too easy.


    Any normal person would have to bring up these things when meeting the inws. Not to mention Tang Kai¡¯s personality, which could not be rubbed with sand...


    ¡°What are you thinking about?¡± A hint of warmth rubbed against his brows, and Sun Zinan looked up in surprise, gazing straight into Tang Kai¡¯s eyes. His hand slid down along the ridges of his brows and scratched lightly at the tip of his nose. ¡°You¡¯re frowning again.¡±


    ¡°Did you finish eating?¡± Sun Zinan remarked, ¡°So fast.¡±


    Tang Kai admitted honestly, ¡°It¡¯s not as good as your cooking. Lie down, I¡¯lle after I brush my teeth.¡±


    In reality, the two of them hadn¡¯t progressed to the point of sleeping together in the same room yet, but judging from the situation, Sun Ying was too ashamed to face them and no other siblings had appeared in front of Sun Zinan to even ask after him after all this time. Other than Tang Kai, there was no one else there to apany him.


    Curing and saving a person was important. Even if Tang Kai had to summon up all his courage to break the barrier of sleeping together, he still had to take care of him.


    It was just past 10 o¡¯clock. The banquet downstairs just ended, but the two of them were already lying next to each other on the big bed. The lights were all turned off, only leaving a small nightlight by the side of the bed. The dim, gauzy light scattered over their nkets.


    This was the first time they were sharing a bed; they should have been nervous, bashful, and repressing their flustered but excited emotions. Yet due to various reasons, they acted as calmly as if they had just been photographed by Buddha.


    Tang Kai had pressed all his worries down together, while Sun Zinan was forcefully making his heart as tranquil as water. He turned over to face Tang Kai and said, ¡°Can¡¯t fall asleep.¡±


    Tang Kai announced with the gravity of an old monk, ¡°Close your eyes to refresh your spirit.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°Doesn¡¯t work, I have things on my mind. If I don¡¯t discuss them I won¡¯t be able fall asleep tonight.¡±


    The Tang Kai who was lying t on his back let out a silent sigh and turned over. ¡°Then talk about it.¡±


    As soon as he opened his mouth, however, Sun Zinan became unsure of where to begin. He hesitated for a moment before starting, ¡°Tonight¡¯s events...I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°En.¡± Tang Kai replied, ¡°I ept. Since you¡¯re so sincere about it, I¡¯m willing to forgive.¡±


    Sun Zinan was stifled by this into silence.


    Tang Kai continued with his eyes closed, ¡°Anything else? Keep going.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°That¡¯s not...what are your thoughts on it?¡±


    Tang Kai asked back, ¡°What are you apprehensive about?¡±


    ¡°Outside of this.¡± Sun Zinan said in deliberation, ¡°Even if you don¡¯t mind, your parents¡¯ side...¡±


    ¡°Your dad didn¡¯t do the right thing but that doesn¡¯t have anything to do with you. You haven¡¯t done anything wrong.¡± Tang Kai pointed out in a stern voice, ¡°If you insist on using this as a reason to break up, I won¡¯t agree.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°Wasn¡¯t it you who said ¡®a defective marriage cannot be tolerated,¡¯ and ¡®the feelings of humanity cannot be used as tools¡¯?¡±


    ¡°Those are two different things.¡± Tang Kai opened his eyes and shot him a pitiful look, expressing a strong indignation at the poor understanding of his character. ¡°At that time, I said it because I wasn¡¯t sure if you wanted to marry me for the sake of your inheritance. Now that you¡¯re already with me, why would I want to break up with you?¡±


    Sun Zinan was almostpletely convinced by his words.


    ¡°This matter really isn¡¯t as serious as you think it is.¡± Tang Kai patted him through the nkets. ¡°Feelings are between you and me. Our parents¡¯ rtionships are for them to figure out. Besides, my dad isn¡¯t the kind of person who¡¯ll let his own family get away with wrongdoings. Since the secret has been broken into, it¡¯s already escaped into smoke and scattered into clouds. Your dad won¡¯t be bothering with my family for a while. Don¡¯t worry about it.¡±


    ¡°But if there¡¯s a first time, then a second time, then there will be a third and fourth time.¡± Sun Zinan asked, ¡°What about next time? And next next time? You can¡¯t coincidentally run into secrets every single time, can you?¡±


    Worldly interests were inexhaustible, but feelings could always wear down into nothing.


    What would they do the day their enthusiasm dried out?


    Tang Kai seemed to have been pinned by his question, and he sighed anxiously. ¡°I guess you¡¯re right...¡± ¡±


    The soft breeze from the air conditioner tilted down. Sun Zinan held his breath, unable to stop himself from tightening his fingers and clenching at his palms.


    But a warm handnded firmly on his back. Tang Kai used a bit of effort and took him into his arms, quilt and all.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll just elope with you and we¡¯ll hide somewhere no one can recognize us...oh, you can cook at home and I¡¯ll steal electric cars to provide for you.¡±

 Chapter 17 - Early Discovery Means Early Treatment

    <h4>Chapter 17 - Early Discovery Means Early Treatment</h4>


    When he said the first two parts, Sun Zinan had been quite moved; after hearing the nonsense that followed, he quipped coldly, ¡°Professor Tang, you really have the nerve.¡±


    His tone was very threatening, but it didn¡¯t have much impact spoken from within the other¡¯s embrace.


    Tang Kaiughed lowly. ¡°With your physique, you can¡¯t even run that fast. I wouldn¡¯t be at ease sending you to steal electric cars.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°Go to hell.¡±


    Tang Kai¡¯s body held the warm and dry fragrance of wood. This scent had already be his signature impression, and gave others an indescribable sense of security.


    Sun Zinan had never considered relying on someone else before. He was usually the one others relied upon. Hisplicated family rtionships and job destined him to a life of undertaking his burdens alone. This was something he had been ustomed to since early on and had be a second nature.


    But Tang Kai¡¯s appearance had changed his regr routine. Sun Zinan had lived for almost thirty years, yet this was the first time he had experienced the power of a boyfriend.


    Leaving aside his outward appearance, Tang Kai¡¯s greatest strengthy in his willingness to continue walking the same path as him, even though he knew the road ahead was not a smooth one.


    Sun Zinany on his side. The big bed felt stable and weing, but he had the illusion he was slowly sinking into it.


    Perhaps he had already fallen into it and hadn¡¯t noticed; there was no escape.


    ¡°All right, do you feel reassured now?¡± Tang Kai reached over and turned off the bedsidemp. He lowered his voice and soothed, ¡°I¡¯m here with you, don¡¯t be afraid, let¡¯s sleep.¡±


    Sun Zinan followed the sound of his voice and closed his eyes.


    He actually managed to sleep decently throughout the night, despite not being used to it as it was his first time sleeping with someone else in the same bed. Tang Kai slept very quietly and didn¡¯t move a lot. He didn¡¯t bother Sun Zinan very much. Yet Tang Kai obviously slept somewhat lightly; when Sun Zinan woke up once in the middle of the night and sleepily, hazily wanted to turn over, the movement alerted Tang Kai and Sun Zinan found himself wrapped gently back into his embrace.


    He didn¡¯t understand at first and only suddenly remembered in the depths of his sleep-induced thoughts amon point: people with heart issues should lie facing the right to avoidpressing the heart.


    Within the dim bedroom, he could hardly trace the outline of the deeply sleeping man and could only hear the sound of his uniform and even breathing, like the tide of the ocean, beating against his ears wave after wave.


    The color of the night was so tender.


    Sun Zinan woke up first the next day. The sleeping postures of the two had not changed but the two quilts had be entangled into one. His pajama pants had rolled up, revealing his bare ankles pressed against Tang Kai¡¯s calves. His skin was warmly flushed; when he lifted his head, he gazed up at his tall, straight nose and longshes.`


    Sun Zinan felt a somewhat indescribable abashment. Perhaps he himself hadn¡¯t thought he¡¯d ¡®cross the line,¡¯ so he quietly withdrew his legs back under his quilt.


    Along with his movements, Tang Kai quickly woke up. He wasn¡¯t quite lucid yet, and unconsciously reached out to encircle Sun Zinan back into his embrace. He asked drowsily, ¡°Awake?¡±


    Sun Zinan felt like his chest was a little stifled, and he patted at the arm across his waist. ¡°Come on, let me get out of bed. You can keep sleeping, it¡¯s still early.¡±


    It seemed that Tang Kai was actually sleepy; he did whatever he was told and obediently moved his hand away. Sun Zinan lifted his quilt up and got out of bed to wash up. After he had cleaned everything up and pushed the door open, he saw Tang Kai hugging the nkets with a head full of messy hair, sitting nkly on the bed like a small child.


    He looked up at the sound of the door opening, and asked Sun Zinan, ¡°Morning, how do you feel? Any difort?¡±


    In this situation, these words didn¡¯t sound quite right no matter how one looked at it. Sun Zinan had recovered his spirits and was once again a lively, mischievous person. He leaned against the doorframe and replied, ¡°Morning, not ufortable at all. You served me wellst night.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°...¡±


    Firing ridiculous words this early in the morning¡ªcould this man get any worse?


    ¡°Thanks.¡± He said expressionlessly, ¡°You were excellent as well.¡±


    They both turned their heads andughed for a while.


    Sun Zinan walked over to pinch Tang Kai¡¯s face and peeled at his messy bedhead. As he urged him to wash up, he thought to himself that it was really impossible to take off this pink filter after wearing it for so long. He even thought Tang Kai¡¯s current, slightly bullied look was pretty cute.


    The two of them left the Sun family before 8 o¡¯clock. Tang Kai drove him to the hospital for a checkup. Because they didn¡¯t know the specifics of the checks, they didn¡¯t eat breakfast to retain an empty stomach for any potential scans. Sun Zinan was afraid Tang Kai would have low blood pressure from not eating and told him to buy something small on the way to take the edge off his hunger. Comrade Tang Kai, however, had the pure spirit of sharing joys and sorrows, and insisted on waiting for him to finish his checkup so they could eat together.


    Fortunately, results were released quickly in private hospitals. The electrocardiogram and color doppler imaging showed nothing wrong with the heart, and the chest x-ray didn¡¯t have any abnormalities. The doctor finally found a possibility from his medical history: Sun Zinan had a weak body since childhood and had had bronchitis and pneumonia before. His lung functions had not developed well and he did not exercise often. His pulmonary flow reserve was not functioning properly¡ªwhen his emotions were intensely stimted, breathing would be a struggle.


    In short, it wasn¡¯t a serious illness, but hisck of physical activity and the special circumstances had caused yesterday¡¯s symptoms.


    Atst, Tang Kai¡¯s teetering heart finally calmed down and sank back into his stomach. Sun Zinan thanked the doctor. When he came out of the hospital, he decided to take half the work day off. In order to soothe Tang Kai¡¯s worried heart, he brought him along for some dim sum.


    Sun Zinan returned to work in the afternoon and Tang Kai went back to campus. When he had time, he called his father to report the chaotic events of the previous night. Tang Zhenhua was an experienced man and this wasn¡¯t the first time he had witnessed something like this. He confidently expressed that he would take care of it, then casually asked how his ¡®daughter-inw¡¯ was doing.


    After listening to Tang Kai¡¯s objective, scientific, and unexaggerated description, he sighed. ¡°Little Sun is a good kid, he has a clear conscience. Gofort him some more. It¡¯s not a big deal, so don¡¯t let him take it to heart.¡±


    He continued, ¡°Remember to get a checkup at the hospital. Fainting from anger while calling your name is something TV dramas don¡¯t even show anymore. I think you¡¯ve been too burnt-out¡ªearly discovery means early treatment. Don¡¯t be shy about going to the doctor.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°...¡±


    The PhD student who hade into his office to hand in his report suddenly felt a surge of killing intent through the door. Frightened, he quickly crossed his chest and sped the prayer beads in his hand, silently praying that the two lines of data he fabricated would never be discovered by his boss.


    After he got off work that evening, Tang Kai rejected Sun Zinan¡¯s offer to drive over and pick him up. He drove back to his ce by himself. Sun Zinan arrived home earlier than he did and Tang Kai opened the door to discover him cooking in the kitchen.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I say to rest? Put that down, I¡¯ll do it.¡± Tang Kai set his bag down and was about to enter the kitchen when Sun Zinan turned around and pointed at him with a spat.


    ¡°It¡¯s just making a meal, I won¡¯t die. Get out, did you wash your hands before running to the kitchen?¡±


    Like a little daughter-inw berated by her husband¡¯s mother, Professor Tang went to wash his hands, feeling rather wronged.


    Sun Zinan poured the stir-fried shiitake mushrooms and shrimp from his pan over nched vegetables. The dish was a bright red, steaming in the heat, absolutely enticing. The sweet and sour spare ribs contained in the pan beside it had just soaked enough in its juices. It was ced onto another te and served along with the first dish. He didn¡¯t bother with making a soup tonight and just made two types of steamed eggs.


    Summer was the best time for cooking sweet and sour foods. They were refreshing without the greasiness. Anyways, unptable food did not exist in Tang Kai¡¯s mouth. Sun Zinan could only evaluate the quality of the food by himself and felt quite satisfied. He picked up a vegetable from the te and ced it in Tang Kai¡¯s bowl. ¡°Do you know what this is?¡±


    ¡°Bok choy?¡± Tang Kai took a close look and felt that it was different from themon type of bok choy¡ªits stalks were thicker and the roots were more swollen, like a small, round hammer. ¡°A different variety of bok choy?¡±


    Sun Zinan replied, ¡°It¡¯s from the same family as you, called xiao tang cai.¡±


    Tang Kai mistakenly thought he was talking about ¡®sugar vegetables¡¯ and was a little doubtful. ¡°Why is it called sugar vegetables, it¡¯s not sweet.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°Puahahaha...¡±


    Tang Kai¡¯s head was full of fog. ¡°En? What¡¯s so funny?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right, it¡¯s not sweet.¡± Sun Zinan wasughing so hard the tips of his chopsticks were trembling. ¡°You¡¯re the one who¡¯s sweet.¡±


    Under the sound of hisughter, Tang Kai¡¯s face went red in doubt.


    ¡°Act a bit more dignified,¡± he said solemnly. ¡°Don¡¯t be so confident because you¡¯ve already have me. Eat your food properly.¡±


    Sun Zinan almost choked fromughter.


    After dinner, Tang Kai volunteered to put the dishes into the dishwasher. While Sun Zinan chopped and prepped in the kitchen, Tang Kai curiously scooted over in an endearing way. ¡°What are you making?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°Making two baskets of steamed buns, changing up the taste. Aren¡¯t you sick of eating toast and eggs every morning?¡±


    Tang Kai¡¯s admiration for Sun Zinan suddenly rose to a whole new level. ¡°You even know how to make steamed buns?¡±


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t think before bragging and immediately opened his mouth to say, ¡°Not only that¡ªprepping and cooking, the eight great cuisines, bread and desserts, I¡¯m fully well versed in all of them.¡±


    Tang Kai was thoroughly convinced and pped enthusiastically. ¡°How amazing!¡±


    ¡°Ahem.¡± Sun Zinan had not expected this silly child would actually believe in him and hurriedly changed the subject. ¡°You¡¯ve lived abroad for a pretty long time too, why didn¡¯t you learn how to cook?¡±


    ¡°I tried,¡± Tang Kai admitted honestly, ¡°But they thought I was making a small nuclear reactor and wouldn¡¯t let me into the kitchen.¡±


    ¡°...Okay.¡±


    Sun Zinan was deeply impressed by the scientific and technological expert Professor Tang.


    In fact, he already had a vague feeling that Tang Kai had eaten too many meals at the school canteen, which would exin his often unusual dish suggestions. Something like chicken stewed with egg tofu was considered fairly eptable, but he would sometimes ask if sweet potatoes could be stir-fried with bamboo shoots or if seaweed could be stewed with pumpkin.


    ¡°What about you?¡± Tang Kai asked, ¡°Did you also learn cooking while studying abroad?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°En.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Why what?¡±


    Tang Kai thought for a bit, and said tactfully, ¡°I thought you wouldn¡¯t be distracted by such daily basics.¡±


    A young master like Sun Zinan would have been looked after since childhood. He could obtain any chef he wanted and he wasn¡¯t even a person who had much of an appetite. Why would he go down to the kitchen himself?


    Sun Zinan understood what he meant but didn¡¯t feel offended. However, he recalled the past and let out a sigh. ¡°I didn¡¯t learn it on purpose...I guess I was bored and had nothing to do at that time.¡±


    Sun Ying had sent him abroad before he had even turned eighteen. He was a stranger in a foreign ce with no friends or family; when he entered adulthood, his peers were chasing their ideals in life while he was the only one left bewildered, not knowing where he stood nor where to go in the future.


    Sometimes, Sun Zinan felt like he was a puppet tethered by strings, his freedom in the hands of others, unqualified to even resist and much less capable of controlling his own life.


    Amidst the confusion and perplexities that surrounded him, he had nowhere to settle down and the uncertainty drove his life into a deep depression. Fortunately, Sun Zinan had still retained some of his senses and was rather alert to his condition. He immediately went to see a psychiatrist when he realized he often had these thoughts. It took him about two years of medication and therapy to slowly find the light at the end of the tunnel.


    Cooking was a hobby he had picked up to relieve his anxiety when he was suffering. The world was unpredictable and unruly, but oil, salt, ginger, vinegar, and the heat of the fire¡ªthese were things he could control.


    As he gradually mastered his abilities and became familiar with cooking, he also slowly recovered his sense of authority over his own life. He finally understood, epted, and faced a world he would never be able topletely control.

 Chapter 18 - Butterfly Windstorm

    <h4>Chapter 18 - Butterfly Windstorm</h4>


    Tang Kai didn¡¯t know what he was thinking about, but he felt that Sun Zinan¡¯s gaze had dimmed significantly. He realized he was probably recollecting an unpleasant experience.


    He secretly regretted mentioning it, and tried to skirt around the subject. As he nced about in panic, he saw Sun Zinan take a ss bowl and add flour in it. He created a crater in the middle and poured in a handful of white powder.


    He was once again struck by curiosity. ¡°What¡¯s this?¡±


    As Sun Zinan carefully poured warm water into the center of the crater he said, ¡°Yeast. You really don¡¯t have any basic knowledge, ah. You use it to rise the flour when steaming buns and mantou.¡±


    Tang Kai was filled with wonderment.


    ¡°I¡¯ll read you a bedtime story,¡± he said solemnly. ¡°A fairy tale rted to yeast.¡±


    Sun Zinanughed and felt like there were too many points he needed to start from. ¡°What time is it even now that you¡¯re reading bedtime stories? What will happen if I really fall asleep?¡±


    Tang Kai was like a shy little white flower. ¡°Friend, have you heard of Sleeping Beauty?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...Okay, you read.¡±


    ¡°Once upon a time, there was a small town. In the town, there was an old woman who ran a bakery. She had a cat...en, I forgot what the cat was called.¡±


    Tang Kai had long forgotten where he had heard this story, and many of the details were blurry. Fortunately, he could still repeat the main frame of the story.


    ¡°It was always raining in the town, but this cat really liked ying in the water. One day, he was so soaked and dripping that he came back to the bakery and sneezed nine times.¡±


    For some reason, Sun Zinan was struck by the desire tough, and he had to suppress it for a while.


    Tang Kai had a patience suited for storytelling and followed his own rhythm, continuing not too fast nor slow.


    ¡°The old woman saw how pitiful it was. She dried it with a towel and had it drink a little milk mixed with yeast, then carried it over to the warm stove to warm it up. After doing this, she went to the store to buy things.¡±


    Sun Zinan gloated over possible misfortune. ¡°Did the cat get baked burnt?¡±


    Tang Kai said, ¡°Not quite.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°You can continue.¡±


    ¡°Because yeast ferments in warm ces, the cat rose like flour and became bigger and bigger. In the end, it filled up the entire house. Good thing the old woman came back, but when she saw the situation she screamed in fear. The cat woke up, stretchedzily, and the entire house copsed.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°Hahahahaha...¡±


    Unexpectedly, Professor Tang looked serious and put on airs, but his heart was full of little sand sculpture stories.


    The old woman became homeless. The mayor was willing to take her in, but the cat was even bigger than the house and the town was afraid it would harm people. So they drove the cat away into the mountains. The old woman was very heartbroken, but she didn¡¯t have any choice. No one fed the cat on the mountain, so it could only catch fish from the river every day.¡±


    ¡°Suddenly one day, people heard a rumbling noise and ran out to see that it was cloudy. It rained day after day, and a flood broke out and rushed down the mountain. The cat thought, ¡®If the floodes up, all the fish will be washed away.¡¯ So it sat down in the middle of the valley, blocking the flood behind it.¡±


    Sun Zinan had been absorbed into the story and asked, ¡°Then what happened?¡±


    ¡°The townspeople came to observe the situation and found the cat blocking the flood, creating a hugeke behind it. So the mayor said to the olddy, ¡®They¡¯re going to look for craftsmen to build a dam. Before that, will you have the cat stay where it is?¡¯¡±


    ¡°The olddy said, ¡®He¡¯s a gentle cat. If you scratch his chin, he¡¯ll listen to you.¡¯¡±


    ¡°Thus, the townspeople took turns scratching the cat¡¯s chin with a rake and fed it all kinds of good food. The craftsmen fixed the dam and the town was once again safe.¡±


    ¡°In the end, the residents of the town agreed that the cat was a hero who had saved them, so they gave it a medal and let it live in the town. Every morning, when it goes to theke to catch fish, the police will open up the road for him.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°That¡¯s it?¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°That¡¯s it.¡±


    This feeling of amusement mixed with a bit of emotional and lingering magical feelings...Tang Kai¡¯s storytelling was really poisonous.


    Sun Zinan was now kneading the dough, his head full of cats fermenting into giant loafs of bread, and his entire being was confused. Tang Kai stared at him eagerly, waiting for his reaction.


    ¡°It¡¯s pretty interesting...¡± Sun Zinan racked his brains for a response. ¡°I didn¡¯t think a scientist like you would have such a childish taste...¡±


    Tang Kai asked, ¡°Are you a bit happier now?¡±


    For a moment, Sun Zinan wanted to automatically reply, ¡®When was I unhappy?¡¯ but as the words reached his mouth, he suddenly realized and stared at Tang Kai in bemusement.


    The inner mind was something difficult to urately perceive, unless someone was inherently sensitive or had devoted considerable attention to the other.


    He had been feeling a little down earlier, but he didn¡¯t show it very clearly, even to the point where he himself didn¡¯t really recognize it. But not only had Tang Kai noticed, he had even told him a long-winded story, just to ease away his little bit of unhappiness.


    This was the first time he had been faced with such sincerity; someone had exposed his fondness. It was like a bright me, attracting him to approach it, yet he was afraid of being burnt. Trembling, not daring to reach out and touch.


    ¡°Thanks...¡±


    He spoke in a halting voice.


    Tang Kai didn¡¯t understand how Sun Zinan was speechless when he had been fine earlier, but his eyes were gleaming with light and looked at him quietly. There seemed to be a hint of tears within them.


    The atmosphere was just right, the mood was there. It was the perfect timing. Tang Kai didn¡¯t need anyone to remind him and for a moment, he felt like he had been blessed with good fortune. He stepped forward and hugged Sun Zinan around the waist.


    Sun Zinan trembled slightly, but didn¡¯t say anything.


    ¡°I said it wrong earlier.¡± The man smiled, lowering his head and touching the tips of their noses, saying affectionately, ¡°There¡¯s still more to the story.¡±


    Sun Zinan¡¯s mind had already ceased to function. ¡°What more?¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°After a bedtime story, there¡¯s also a kiss.¡±


    The dry, slightly warm lips pressed down. The gentle kiss was like a floating flower, resting on his forehead for a moment before flying away as if it was a butterfly.


    Badum, badum, badum¡ª


    Each heartbeat felt like it was going to break out of a cocoon, and ten thousand butterflies flipped through his chest, creating a windstorm no one else knew about.


    But there were no shes of lightning, no thunder, no destruction and no disastrous copse. There were only the butterflies flying off after the first one, turning into a shower of flower rain.


    Sun Zinan¡¯s hands were covered in flour, and he didn¡¯t dare push him or return his embrace. Tang Kai took advantage of the awkward position of his hands and sped the other tightly. ¡°Thought you might get too excited so I didn¡¯t try anything else.¡±


    ¡°But you¡¯re going to have to get used to it...¡±


    ¡°Next time, I¡¯m nning on kissing here.¡± He reached his hand out and poked Sun Zinan in the cheek, thought for a bit, then pressed against his ear and whispered, ¡°When you¡¯re ready, I¡¯ll read ¡®Sleeping Beauty¡¯ for you.¡±


    Sun Zinan finally recovered from the dream-like state he had been caught in. ¡°You...¡±


    As soon as he opened his mouth, for some reason his voice was suddenly a little hoarse. Tang Kai felt like he had been burned by this sound and shivered violently. He immediately let go of him and ran away.


    The Sun Zinan who had been left behind with his head foggy with confusion, ¡°What are you running for?¡±


    Although he was confused he wasn¡¯t stupid. They were both men, and he understood immediately after considering it.


    Sun Zinan looked down at the cutting board and at the white, plump mass of dough at the bottom of the bowl. He didn¡¯t know if it was because he had been seduced by Tang Kai, but that retreating figure had been a little silly, charmingly naive.


    He tried his best but couldn¡¯t restrain himself, his shoulders shaking.


    ¡°Hahahahahaha...¡±


    After the whirlwind of the birthday banquet scandal, the two of them finally had some rare quiet time to themselves. Living together ground their habits against each other. As they became more familiar and intimate, the two of them became like a pair of gears. After a brief period of awkwardness, their shapes would be molded by the other side. Finally they¡¯d fit each other tightly, turning smoothly together.


    The original promise of one week together had been pushed to the back of their minds. Tang Kai spent the entire summer at Sun Zinan¡¯s ce, eating and sleeping with him, stealing kisses from time to time. He experienced the luxurious life of being pampered by someone else.


    In contrast, this ¡®someone else¡¯ was feeling very stifled. Other good-looking young men were tender and considerate, never heading west when told to head east, never annoying the chickens when told to hit dogs. But why did the good-looking young man at his house dare to do anything just because he had good looks? He dared to take his clothes to wipe his sses, refused to sell his scientific results to him, and even whined whenever he came backte from working overtime.


    At the end of the summer vacation, Tang Kai was finally able to take a few days off from working at hisb. He volunteered himself as Sun Zinan¡¯s chauffeur to and from work. Thepany happened to be at the center of the city and had arge shopping mall next to it. Tang Kai calcted that Sun Zinan¡¯s birthday wasing up and decided to go pick a present for him.


    It was too early to buy a ring, so a cufflink was more appropriate, but that didn¡¯t stop him from stopping at the ring counter to think about what style he wanted a proposal ring to be.


    The woman at the counter stood beside him, smiling as she asked, ¡°Hello sir, are you choosing for your girlfriend, or looking for matching rings?¡±


    Tang Kai corrected, ¡°Boyfriend.¡±


    The words were still lingering in the air when the sound of a heavy object falling to the ground came from behind them.


    The two of them turned around in unison and discovered that a woman behind them had identally dropped her handbag. The male shop assistant beside her hurriedly picked it up for her. The woman wore a pair of sunsses, and didn¡¯t say anything. Tang Kai felt like she was looking in his direction, but his mind was fixed on the ring and didn¡¯t observe her very carefully, quickly turning his head back to the counter.


    The shop assistant took this moment to adjust her bearing and said with a face full of smiles, ¡°The men¡¯s designs are on this side. Please follow me, sir.¡±


    Tang Kai followed her over and said offhandedly, ¡°Right, I also want to look at cufflinks.¡±


    In front of the ne counter.


    The woman clutched tightly at the handle of her bag, nearly leaving permanent marks with her nails. She seemed to be staring intently at the pendant on the ck velvet disy, but the conversation from the counter on the other side flowed unobstructed into her ears.


    ¡°He likes...simple designs, right, noplicated styles, more lowkey.¡±


    ¡°En, his fingers are thin, skin is pale...tinum looks better.¡±


    ¡°Wrap the cufflinks up for me, thank you...okay, I¡¯lle back after I make measurements.¡±


    In the reflection of the shop window, the tall, handsome man finished paying and walked out the store holding a small paper bag. She clenched her teeth, her heart suspended, and chased after him.

 Chapter 19 - Holding You In My Hands

    <h4>Chapter 19 - Holding You In My Hands</h4>


    In the afternoon, Tang Kai went to the salon for a haircut. There were so many people that he hadn¡¯t finished by the time Sun Zinan got off work. After he called him, Sun Zinan said, ¡°Send me your location on WeChat, I¡¯lle find you.¡± He finally finished around six o¡¯clock. When he walked out of the shop, he immediately saw the SUV parked in front of the entrance.


    Sun Zinan seemed to like Bentleys very much and had collected many models. The model he drove out this time was the Tianyue one. He also usually drove a silver European model and the other ck Mushang gship model that was often used by thepany for the purpose of good first-impressions.


    Tang Kai opened the car door and sat shotgun. Like a peacock showing off his gorgeous tail, he stared burningly at Sun Zinan. ¡°You¡¯ve worked hard.¡±


    His hair had been cut short, and he looked younger and more alert. The well-tailored white shirt he wore brought along a few hints of the spring of youth. Good-looking was truly good-looking, but Sun Zinan noticed that his expression was one of ¡®quick praise me for being handsome¡¯ and suddenly found it very funny.


    It was difficult to imagine that just a few months ago, this man had mocked him with the ¡®cornstalks and kelp¡¯ speech. He had said he could not get along with Virgos¡ªwho knew that in the blink of an eye, he would suddenly feel pity for a Virgo. If he had known this would happen, he would have recorded that phrase and set it as the car music to y for him at this moment.


    ¡°Handsome.¡± He smiled and pinched Tang Kai¡¯s face, closing his eyes and bragging without any principle, ¡°Our Tang Tang was born a beauty. He¡¯ll look good even if he shaves all his hair off.¡±


    Highly educated individuals feared neither the heavens nor hell, but they did fear the two words ¡®shaved head.¡¯ Although Tang Kai didn¡¯t suffer from this condition, it still made his heart sour and he quickly covered Sun Zinan¡¯s mouth with his hand. ¡°Pei, if your mouth is covered, I won¡¯t be bald!¡±


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t give him any face and cackled inughter against his hand.


    Tang Kai put his hand down resentfully and turned his neck a bit ufortably. Sun Zinan noticed and asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Strands of hair in your cor?¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°En.¡±


    After opening the shirt cor, he examined the inside of the shirt under the faint light of the sky. He finally picked out a few strands of hair that had been left behind by the haircut. ¡°Is it okay now...hm?¡±


    Tang Kai took advantage of this convenient posture and quickly pecked at the side of his face.


    Sun Zinan turned around to look at him but before he could show any reaction, Tang Kai moved closer and kissed him again, reaching his hands out to secure his waist.


    Sun Zinan decided he might as well quietly follow his actions.


    Tang Kai¡¯s breath was warm and light, his feathery light kissesnding at the side of his face, under his eyes, the tip of his nose, the corner of his mouth...there was no pattern to them,pletely dependent on whatever his heart wished. Like a passionate love but without the lust; a pure intimacy that was like the coquettishness of someone in a good mood.


    But Sun Zinan could feel what he was trying to convey¡ªI really like you, I want to be close to you.


    It might¡¯ve been a conscious confession or it might¡¯ve been an act of intimacy with no further meaning, but whatever it was, it made his heart as soft as a marshmallow.


    ¡°Okay, that¡¯s enough...are you trying to wash my face?¡± A momentter, Sun Zinan finally struggled to push Tang Kai away. ¡°Put on your seatbelt, if we don¡¯t leave the police will stick a parking ticket on the car soon.¡±


    Tang Kai¡¯s face was still buried in his neck, reluctant to part due to not having finished expressing all his views. ¡°Let him stick, he can stick however many he wants.¡±


    Sun Zinan wasn¡¯t afraid of parking tickets, but he was afraid that something uncivilized might happen if they got too intimate. He saw that Tang Kai was still toozy to move and could only reach his hand out and pull the seatbelt over to buckle him in. ¡°If we really got fined I¡¯ll have to detract it from your food costs. One ticket is two hundred bucks, you won¡¯t be able to eat for a day.¡±


    Tang Kai protested, ¡°Why can¡¯t I just pay out of my own pocket?¡±


    Sun Zinan replied coolly, ¡°You eat and drink my stuff every day, I¡¯ve never seen you pay out of pocket.¡±


    Tang Kai immediately caught onto this and said, ¡°Wee to loan collection, I strongly request I pay with my body.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...Get out!¡±


    The SUV slowly pulled out of the side of the road and entered the busy, never-resting traffic rush.


    Shortly after they drove off, a white Mercedes that had been parked on the other side of the road suddenly started and quietly followed the car that had just left.


    When they entered the neighborhood, Tang Kai nced at his rear mirror by chance and noticed a white car behind the gate that had been denied entry. He didn¡¯t see the license te clearly but he felt a sense of familiarity, as if he had seen it somewhere before.


    Just as he turned his head around to take a closer look at the car, Sun Zinan turned the steering wheel around a right turn. The car drove into the depths of the neighborhood and Tang Kai¡¯s line of sight waspletely obscured by the buildingplexes.


    ¡°Hm?¡± Sun Zinan asked, ¡°Did you see something?¡±


    Tang Kai turned back around, silently keeping his doubts to himself, and shook his head. ¡°I didn¡¯t.¡±


    Sun Zinan¡¯s birthday happened to be the day before Tang Kai started school, on a weekend. Tang Kai purposely moved back to his own apartment two days beforehand, mulling over his ns for days behind Sun Zinan¡¯s back. After working hard from dawn tote into the night, with who knew how many ingredients ruined, he finally produced two barely-eptable steaks.


    Cake, red wine, fresh flowers, gifts...everything was ready except one Sun Zinan.


    Sun Zinan, who usually didn¡¯t care too much about anything, actually paid a lot of attention to Tang Kai. Tang Kai had thought his little actions were well-hidden and hadpletely escaped Sun Zinan¡¯s eyes, but just based on the date he asked to meet up on, it was easy to guess he was preparing a birthday gift for him.


    But a guess was merely a guess. This feeling of anticipation was still fresh and exciting; after all, aside from banks and retailers, no one else took this day so seriously.


    Thus, Sun Zinan was extremely cooperative that day and uncharacteristically easily agreed to Tang Kai¡¯s request toe to his apartment and cook lunch for him. He drove to the apartmentplex next to Tianhai University.


    The entire neighborhood had been built in the ¡¯90s and was older. The outside walls were stained with peeling paint and the window sills were contrasted beautifully by the shadows cast by ivy. Green beans and little peppers dried on the downstairs porch while the elderly chatted leisurely by the vegetable baskets. It was peaceful and quiet, like any other old neighborhood.


    Only when one walked closer would one hear the topics they discussed¡ªastronomy, geography, mathematics, water conservancy, aeronautics, politics...


    Sun Zinan had done his undergraduate studies abroad at a decent university; he had never felt like his studies werecking. But ever since thest time he hade to Tang Kai¡¯s apartment and coincidentally met two grandmothers discussing silicon-molded pressure sensors while picking vegetables, Sun Zinan purposely chose a side path to enter the neighborhood in fear that some elderlydy might call him over to answer questions.


    Tang Kai had onlye back from abroad a few years ago and had not settled down yet, so he rented a ce near school for convenience. Although Sun Zinan felt like a thief every time he came over, he actually really liked the atmosphere. It wasn¡¯t a problem for the building to be a bit older; the environment was at least full of life.


    Tang Kai¡¯s apartment was on the east side of the fifth floor of the second unit. Sun Zinan knocked on the heavy iron door and heard the hurried, quick footsteps on the other side. ¡°Coming!¡±


    The door burst open along with the scent of dew and rose petals.


    Sun Zinan raised his brows and smiled as he looked at him.


    Tang Kai moved aside to let him in and set a pair of slippers down for him. ¡°Come in.¡±


    Right after Sun Zinan changed his shoes, he was pushed into the living room by Tang Kai. On the dining table was arge vase of scattered red rose petals, like a ss of red wine. The cake was ced on a small tform. When he looked through the transparent cover, he saw a detailed little sugar figurine wearing a suit, looking very refined. It held a piece of candy in its hand and was surrounded by candied fruit and frosting flowers of all sizes. The design was very sweet to the eyes.


    Tang Kai pointed at the cake and said, ¡°This person is you, this piece of candy is me.¡±


    Sun Zinan nodded. ¡°This action...putting you in my hand, burning incense with piety, right? Sounds pretty good.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°...You really know how to recognize the main point.¡±


    ¡°Happy birthday, darling.¡± He hugged Sun Zinan from behind, pressing against his face and solemnly promising, ¡°From now on, I¡¯ll spend every birthday with you. I hope every day of your life will be as sweet as today.¡±


    The little figurine on the cake was surrounded by candied flowers and fruits. Its eyes were soft and lips slightly raised, just like the expression on its real-life counterpart¡¯s face.


    Even though he had foreseen it, when he actually saw Tang Kai¡¯s earnestness, Sun Zinan was moved to the point of wanting to support him for the rest of his life. ¡°Thank you. I really like it.¡±


    ¡°Like who?¡± Tang Kai asked with a smile.


    ¡°I like you.¡±


    This affectionate atmospherested until the two of them sat down in front of the table. After Sun Zinan tasted his first bite of the steak, he saw the look in Tang Kai¡¯s eyes, longing forpliments. After a little bit of pondering, he gave unexpectedly high praise. ¡°It¡¯s a pleasant surprise.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°Really?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°Why would I lie to you? Although you can¡¯t catch up to me even if you practiced for another eight hundred years, it¡¯s a lot better than when I first saw you cook. Of course I¡¯m surprised.¡±


    To tell the truth, the steak was a little hard, the side dishes were too mushy, and the sauce was bitter with a burnt taste. If he were at a restaurant, Sun Zinan wouldn¡¯t have even swallowed his first bite.


    But for a devilish cook like Tang Kai to produce a dish of this quality was really a pleasant surprise¡ªat least, it was a surprise for Sun Zinan.


    Forget about a steak of this level, if Tang Kai had presented him a nuclear reactor on a te, he would have been just as happy.


    After all, steak was easy to obtain in this world but earnest feelings were not.


    After lunch, Tang Kai went to wash the dishes. The apartment he rented was quite big but the kitchen was extremely small. It was too crowded for the two of them to stand together and there was no space for a dishwasher. Plus, he usually never cooked at home, so all the dishes were hand-washed. Sun Zinan didn¡¯t want to obediently sit at the dining table and insisted on watching him wash the dishes.


    Tang Kai rarely saw him so clingy andughed with his hands covered in foam. ¡°What¡¯s so interesting about washing dishes? I didn¡¯t clean the kitchen, don¡¯te in, okay?¡±


    Under the rushing water, Sun Zinan noticed several red spots on the wrists that had been revealed from pushing his sleeves up. They were spots from being scalded with sshes of hot oil.


    Who knew how long this dummy had been secretly practicing behind his back. The two hands that were so familiar with experiment instruments had suffered a lot from the unfamiliar hot oil and hot pans.


    After Tang Kai finished cleaning everything up, wiped his hands clean, and came out of the kitchen, Sun Zinan said, ¡°Give me your hands, let me see.¡±


    ¡°En?¡± Tang Kai lowered his head to look, and realized that the scars on his hands had been discovered and immediately said, ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I was sshed by oil a few times, they¡¯re all small wounds.¡±


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t say anything as he reached out and grabbed his wrist, pulling a hand before his eyes.


    It was more serious than he had imagined. New wounds covered old ones. Even if he only looked at a few obvious blisters and scab marks, it hurt just to look at them.


    ¡°It¡¯s really nothing...¡± Tang Kai saw his sinking expression and hurriedly tried to soothe him. ¡°I didn¡¯t burn myself today, really. These are old wounds, they¡¯re already healed.¡±


    Sun Zinan lowered his head, gently leaving a kiss on the dark red wound.


    Tang Kai could only feel a spark bursting into fireworks at his fingertips. An electric current ran up from where Sun Zinan¡¯s lips had touched and the nerve endings all over his body seemed to have all quickly heated up, his four limbs burning in a way he couldn¡¯t control.


    ¡°You...¡±


    His voice was hoarse, as if he had swallowed sand. He felt like his current state was unstably teetering back and forth. If Sun Zinan lit another fire, he might explode at once.

 Chapter 20 - Fox and Beast

    <h4>Chapter 20 - Fox and Beast</h4>


    Sun Zinan¡¯s eyes were half-closed, kissing the red wounds one by one. He suddenly felt like a hard shell had broken apart in his heart, the pieces falling down, dust and ashes. It revealed a tiny previously hidden corner where he had stored all his deepest desires.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so hard on yourself next time.¡±


    He held Tang Kai¡¯s wrist and said softly, ¡°I¡¯ve received your feelings.¡±


    Tang Kai replied hoarsely, ¡°I...¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m really upset,¡± Sun Zinan interrupted. ¡°No expensive gift can make up for your pain.¡±


    Making a shining memory was of course important, but Tang Kai was the person who had lit the light in the first ce.


    Professor Tang¡¯s hands had been seized by Sun Zinan. He had nothing else to say, so could only lower his head to block his mouth.


    This was their first real kiss. It wasn¡¯t a fairytale, nor the yful coddling of flirting, but a heavy kiss that lit a fire within both of them.


    Sun Zinan had been stunned at first, but once he reacted, he immediately grabbed Tang Kai¡¯s shirt cor and took the lead.


    When driven to extremes, even the tongue could be used as a weapon. Tang Kai¡¯s entire body was burning, his heart boiling with the desire to devour Sun Zinan¡¯s alive, his inner self a wild beast. The other party however was not a rose waiting to be picked, but a fox that looked gentle but was hostile enough to scratch.


    He had endured time and time again, but Sun Zinan had always provoked him.


    When this fox tried to bite him again, the beast within his heart burst through its cage. The wildness and ferocity within its bones were thoroughly aroused. Tang Kai pressed Sun Zinan onto the sofa.


    Even his eyes were red, his reason vanishing, looking sharp and dangerous.


    But that was what Sun Zinan liked.


    He draped his arm against the back of Tang Kai¡¯s neck, not fearing death, losing his fingers amongst his newly cut hair before long,peting for control as he pressed against the back of his head.


    Two wild animals tore at each other.


    Although Tang Kai was forceful, he still restrained himself, only using a little brute force in attacking this city and gradually became gentler. But Sun Zinan was a crafty fox who liked to bite back; he was born to revolt as long as he didn¡¯t die. Even kisses wouldn¡¯t be let go, he would definitely kiss back twice the amount. The two men entangled for dozens of seconds. Tang Kai¡¯s lips were covered with a few bite marks.


    But the fox was only a fox who was reduced to breathing heavily when hiking up mountains while the beast was a beast who lifted weights at the gym every day. Sun Zinan was exhausted after a minute and finally forced to give up. He was blocked by Tang Kai into a corner of the sofa, kissed steadily until he was dizzy.


    Because of ack of oxygen, his limbs were as soft as noodles. At the end of a long kiss, Tang Kai embraced him and he curled up into a cute ball.


    A lowughter vibrated in his chest and his warm breath swept across his ears and sweaty bangs. It was like being scratched by the tip of a feather, crisp and numb.


    ¡°Thanks for being upset for me.¡± Tang Kai chuckled despite himself. ¡°A kiss will cure a hundred ailments&#k2014;it really doesn¡¯t hurt anymore.¡±


    Sun Zinan was like a schr whose soul had been sucked dry by a demon. He gasped like he was on hisst breath, ¡°Fuck you...¡±


    Tang Kai carried Sun Zinan into his bedroom and found some loungewear for him to wear. After a peaceful afternoon, it wasfortable to take a short rest or close one¡¯s eyes to refresh one¡¯s mind, especially if one was leaning against someone one liked. The air conditioner in Tang Kai¡¯s apartment was new and the cooling effect was excellent. The two big men did not feel hot despite cuddling with each other.


    The soft nket wrapped gently around their bodies, holding azy warmth. No mountain scenery in the world was as peaceful and tranquil as this moment.


    Sun Zinan was a bit sleepy andy there with his eyes half-closed, pondering. Tang Kai abruptly asked, ¡°Speaking of which, I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve ever met your mother.¡±


    His eyshes suddenly trembled.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have a mother.¡± Sun Zinan¡¯s posture remained the same as he spoke quietly into his quilt.


    Before he gave this answer, he knew it would trigger a series of questions, but he didn¡¯t expect Tang Kai¡¯s first reaction would be ¡°Do you mean biologically or social rtionship-wise?¡±


    Nothing good coulde out of a work-obsessed boyfriend.


    ¡°Do I look like a monkey?¡± Sun Zinan pinched the tip of Tang Kai¡¯s nose and tugged at it. ¡°I don¡¯t have a mother in name.¡±


    Tang Kai wanted to apologize, but was stopped by a hand.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to apologize. My biological mother isn¡¯t dead; she¡¯s living well.¡± Sun Zinan said, ¡°But it¡¯s none of my business, I don¡¯t even know who she is.¡±


    ¡°The person who gave birth to me wasn¡¯t Sun Ying¡¯s spouse. I¡¯m...the child of a surrogate.¡±


    No wonder.


    No wonder thest time they went to the Sun family¡¯s vi, there had been no pictures of a mother figure.


    With Sun Ying¡¯s family background and appearance, there would have been many women willing to bear children for him. But he would rather find a surrogate...was Sung Ying also gay? Then where did all of Sun Zinan¡¯s older brotherse from?


    Tang Kaiy facing him. He swept his hand across his brows and nose bridge, then across his lips. He pressed lightly at the crease beneath his lower lip. He voiced his sudden realization, ¡°No wonder you¡¯re so handsome, you have foreign ancestry.¡±


    Sun Zinan had been teased intoughing. He pulled Tang Kai¡¯s hand down and kissed his fingertips. ¡°I know you want to ask why. It¡¯s a long story. I¡¯ll tell you slowly in the future. Today¡¯s my birthday, so let¡¯s not mention vexing things.¡±


    Although he didn¡¯t mention any names, the only person who could make Sun Zinan so annoyed was his father.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Tang Kai replied softly, putting his arm around his waist. He whispered lowly, ¡°Take a nap.¡±


    Perhaps his memories had been jogged by the conversation they had before sleeping. In the midst of his daze, Sun Zinan seemed to be six or seven years old again. He knew he was dreaming, but he couldn¡¯t move, as if he were an adult¡¯s soul stuck in a child¡¯s body. His mind was clear, but his physical body couldn¡¯t keep up.


    Hey on his back on the bed, surrounded by darkness. In the deathly silence, the sha-sha sound of something scraping sounded. It was very light, impossible to tell where it came from, but it made Sun Zinan¡¯s scalp tingle in fear.


    It was the nightmare from his deepest hidden depths, the one he still hadn¡¯t forgotten.


    He knew exactly what was going to happen next and began to struggle frantically, but his four limbs were as heavy as if they had been filled with lead, and gradually even breathing became a burden. The rustling sound came closer and closer, like a person¡¯s footsteps, quicklying towards the bed. The long, fuzzy limbs were almost draped across the bed¡ª


    ¡°Little Nan? Nannan? Wake up...¡±


    At this moment, the burden on his body suddenly eased off.


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    Sun Zinan opened his eyes suddenly and sprang up from the bed, hyperventting. The arm around his waist pulled him back under his quilt. Tang Kai gently sped the back of his neck, murmuring like he was soothing a frightened little animal. ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid, don¡¯t be scared, it¡¯s nothing...nothing will happen.¡±


    The soul that had flown away gradually gathered back in his body. He breathed a long sigh of relief, his tense muscles visibly rxing.


    ¡°I had a nightmare...¡± he muttered.


    ¡°En, a little bit of sleep paralysis.¡± Tang Kai said, ¡°You weren¡¯t so obedient when sleepingst time. You kept trying to hide in my arms, and I couldn¡¯t wake you up no matter what.¡±


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t catch onto the flirtation in his words and instead buried his face in his neck. ¡°I dreamed of something that happened when I was a kid...¡±


    Tang Kai realized something was wrong, and gently patted his back with a hand, asking lowly, ¡°What happened when you were a kid?¡±


    Sun Zinan said, ¡°Bugs.¡±


    Tang Kai knew how severe his phobia of bugs was, but he had never thought too deeply about it. He realized that their conversation before sleeping had triggered him, but he was too afraid to ask more. He could only coax, ¡°There aren¡¯t any bugs, the apartment is very clean. I sanitized and cleaned everything before you came. Don¡¯t be afraid.¡±


    Professor Tang was a knowledgeable person and knew that those with mysophobia would be much moreforted by a bottle of disinfectant at this time than ¡®I¡¯m here by your side.¡¯


    As expected, Sun Zinan¡¯s breathing stabilized a bit. The rapid heaves of his chest gradually became regr, and the grip on his clothes loosened. His voice lost the faintness of fear.


    ¡°It¡¯s not your house, it¡¯s my house.¡±


    Tang Kai asked cautiously, ¡°Do you have bugs in your house?¡±


    It was natural for boys to y and be naughty, chasing chickens and dogs, ying in the fields with nts. It was rare to find someone who was so afraid of bugs. But Sun Zinan hadn¡¯t been like other boys. He was already at the point where he was basically allergic to bugs. He couldn¡¯t even stay in a room that moths had once visited. If there wasn¡¯t a reason for this, it would have been truly baffling.


    He was a child Sun Ying had found a surrogate for and had no mother in name. He had been fostered abroad until he was brought back to the Sun family at the age of five. His older brothers and sisters were old enough to be his parents and Sun Ying didn¡¯t bother finding him apanion his own age. He didn¡¯t even know how to speak Chinese fluently and couldn¡¯tmunicate with his own family. He was like an orphan that had been picked up off the street, withdrawn and silent, locking himself in his room all day.


    At that point his third brother, Sun Ziyan, had just graduated from college. He didn¡¯t study well and spent his entire days being loitering at home. When he heard that there was a new member in the family, he believed with all his heart that Sun Zinan was an illegitimate son of the old man who had been living abroad and hade back topete for the family inheritance.


    He hated Sun Zinan so much every time he saw him, he would re at him like he wanted to strangle him on the spot.


    Sun Zinan learned to take detours every time he saw him, but the more he hid, the more Sun Ziyan wanted to bully him.


    One night, Sun Zinan woke up in a daze around midnight, feeling like something was wrong and that something was crawling across his hand. He wondered to himself, and got up to turn on the bedsidemp. He immediately saw seven or eight ck spiders the size of coins crawling on his quilt, their backs striped and ugly. They crawled about everywhere under the dim light, and one was even hanging off the sleeve of his pajamas, climbing up rapidly.


    Sun Zinan was scared to the point of going crazy. It wasn¡¯t an exaggeration to say his soul was in a state of disarray; he almost died on the spot.


    He screamed, leaping out of bed and rushing to the door, but he couldn¡¯t unlock it¡ªSun Ziyan had locked the door from outside andughed wildly as he heard his heart-rending cries.


    Sun Zinan would never forget this hellish scene.


    Fortunately, Sun Ziyan had notpletely lost his mind and did not go so far as to throw poisonous spiders into his brother¡¯s room. If he had been bitten, Sun Zinan would have met God on the spot.


    He pounded against his door madly. The movements were not small, but not a single servant dared to go upstairs and check. When Sun Zinan realized it was impossible to open the door and that there was no other path of escaping, he opened the window, stumbled onto the balcony, and jumped off the second floor.


    This finally shocked the entire family into action.


    Sun Zinan had been shocked, then jumped off a building, breaking a bone while having a high fever and almost lost his little life. He spent over a year in the hospital before he could function normally again. His health was still poor to this day. He suffered bronchitis every winter because of the events that year.


    Sun Ying gave Sun Ziyan a harsh lecture and kicked him out of S Province in a fit of rage, sending him to an outsidepany to work for three years. By the time Sun Ziyan had returned to the Sun family with a heart full of vengeance, ready to enact his revenge, Sun Zinan had long been sent to a boarding school by Sun Ying to continue his studies.


    In the fifteen years that ensued, the two of them rarely had contact with each other. The two brothers only reunited when Sun Zinan graduated abroad and came back. Many yearster, the two of them finally made peace in front of their father, faking their smiles to hide their debts of hatred.

 Chapter 21 - Summer Has Passed

    <h4>Chapter 21 - Summer Has Passed</h4>


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t exin the experience in that much detail and only briefly filled in a few words in a low voice, devoid of any resentment. But Tang Kai was still infuriated.


    The social news was filled with terrible idents like this all the time, but once it happened to someone close to him, he could finally understand what an acute pain it was.


    How could an adult do such a psychotic thing towards a child?


    Leaving a psychological trauma of bugs was rtively lightpared to the fact that he had jumped off the second floor balcony...if Sun Zinan hadn¡¯t lived, he wouldn¡¯t have a partner in front of him at this moment.


    ¡°Can I stuff him in a sack and beat him up?¡± Tang Kai hugged Sun Zinan tightly in his arms, his tone as if he were the one who had been wronged. ¡°I want to break his goddamn legs and send him to the hospital for years, let him experience all your suffering...¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, it¡¯s been so many years.¡± Sun Zinan ruffled his hair, brushing the words aside as a moment of anger. ¡°Anyways, how can I let him live peacefully? Sooner orter we¡¯ll collect his debts with interest.¡±


    Tang Kai was silent for a while before sullenly saying, ¡°Still want to hit him.¡±


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t say anything.


    Tang Kai hemmed and hawed, asking, ¡°Still want to sleep?¡±


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t want to sleep at all and lifted his quilt as he sat up. ¡°If I nap too much I¡¯ll have a headache. You should get up and work, Professor Tang.¡±


    Summer vacation ended the next day and the semester opening ceremony was about to start. Tang Kai was the face of the school and had always been pushed forward to speak to new freshmen every year. Sun Zinan was supposed to go after eating together, leaving some time for him to go over his speech notes. Professor Tang truly suffered from procrastination, hugging his waist like an overly clingy dog, refusing to let go and insisting that Sun Zinan stayed to keep himpany.


    Sun Zinan realized that the fear of the start of a semester was an incurable disease for both students and professors.


    Tang Kai grinded through a powerpoint presentation. Once he thought about how he couldn¡¯t loiter around with Sun Zinan every day once school started, he became unhappy and had to resist the urge to buy a house together and move in that night.


    Sun Zinan answered emails on hisptop, asionally raising his hand to rub Tang Kai¡¯s face. When he heard this suggestion, he took it seriously and nodded. ¡°Anyways your job will be stable for the next ten years or so. If you want to buy a house, you should choose one of the newer buildings around school.¡±


    Tang Kai felt that there was anotheryer of meaning behind his words and asked, ¡°What about you?¡±


    ¡°I...will take it step by step, I guess.¡± Sun Zinan replied, ¡°I can¡¯t spend my entire life on this littlepany.¡±


    Tang Kai could roughly understand his concerns. One one hand, Sun Zinan¡¯s position had already reached the ceiling. Once his brothers inherited their positions, they wouldn¡¯t want him to get involved with the group business. On the other hand, hispany¡¯s growth was too limited. The entire gene sequencing industry was currently at a bottleneck; if they couldn¡¯t develop new industry sectors, it was only a matter of time before all their resources were used up.


    ¡°Do whatever you want to do.¡± Tang Kai sat up and said with a manly air, ¡°If you don¡¯t seed,e to me and I¡¯ll support you.¡±


    Sun Zinan rolled his eyes and smirked, ¡°Others take young handsome men to warm their beds. You take young handsome men to cook for you¡ªwhy don¡¯t you just look for a housekeeper?¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°I didn¡¯t say I wouldn¡¯t let you crawl into my bed. Come,e whenever you want!¡±


    ¡°&#k2026;¡±


    Seeing that the conversation was running into an indescribable direction, Sun Zinan hurriedly stopped and changed the subject. ¡°What do you want to eat for dinner? The little market in front of your neighborhood seems pretty good. Let¡¯s go buy some groceries in a bit.¡±


    His birthday privileges were only applicable during the day. Sun Zinan still had to cook dinner. Otherwise, he predicted Tang Kai would have cried on the spot.


    Sure enough, Professor Tang treasured thisst supper and without stopping for breath, performed the entire ¡¯reporting menu¡¯ routine.


    Sun Zinan said coolly, ¡°Go back to theb and gnaw at your petri dishes.¡±


    After the sun started going down, the heat outside cooled off a little. The two of them dallied down the stairs, dressed in casual clothes. It wasn¡¯t too hot outside. They held hands as they shopped at the market.


    Sun Zinan rarely came to roadside markets like this; he hated the crowds. But Tang Kai lived in an older, smaller neighborhood and most of the residents were the retired elderly. They were most willing to spend their time in a ce where groceries were only 80 RMB, so the business at this vegetable market was booming.


    He hadcked normal life experiences since he was a child and always felt like he was out of touch with others. But as he held a person in his hands, he felt like he had jumped from a cold, lofty room into the dusty, noisy world of mortals. His delicate armor crumbled and faded away. Somehow, he suddenly found the courage to shop at a crowded roadside market.


    ¡°Should we buy a fish and roast it when we get back? Or make it sweet-and-sour?¡± Sun Zinan stared at the lively fish in the stic bin and asked Tang Kai, ¡°Or should we fry it?¡±


    For some reason, Tang Kai looked a little absent-minded. He only came back to his senses after Sun Zinan called out to him several times. ¡°I want pickled vegetables and fish.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the middle of summer, are you not afraid of inmmation?¡± Sun Zinan muttered to himself and went up to the counter, pointing at the bin as he said, ¡°Boss, give me a grass carp.¡±


    The advantage of buying fish at a market was that he could ask the stall owner to clean live fish for them so they wouldn¡¯t have to do it at home. As Sun Zinan waited for the stall owner to kill the fish, he suddenly asked, ¡°What were you looking at earlier?¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°En?¡±


    ¡°I had to call you many times before you noticed.¡± Sun Zinan replied.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing, I was probably overthinking.¡± Tang Kai said, ¡°It feels like someone has been watching me since we¡¯ve left the apartment. I¡¯m probably wrong.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s normal.¡± Sun Zinan looked around and smiled. ¡°It¡¯s rare to see someone as good-looking as you.¡±


    Professor Tang was unexpectedly teased by him, the tips of his ears turning red.


    The stall owner briskly cleaned the grass carp. Sun Zinan scanned the QR code on his phone to pay. Tang Kai took the stic bag and asked, ¡°Where do we buy pickled vegetables? Can we buy whole pickled vegetables?¡±


    Sun Zinan looked at this handsome fool who was even more ignorant than him, and sighed. ¡°Over there, where you buy spices. Do you see? Go tell the auntie you want two bags of ingredients for pickled vegetables and fish.¡±


    Tang Kai looked at him pitifully, his gaze delicate. ¡°Dear, you won¡¯te with me?¡±


    Sun Zinan replied lovingly, ¡°Babe, after you buy the ingredients just stand there and don¡¯t go too far. I¡¯m going to buy a few oranges.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°...¡±


    There was no end to this!


    When Sun Zinan came back carrying a few stalks of celery, Tang Kai was obediently standing under the fruit stand¡¯s umbre waiting for him. One hand carried the stic bag while the other hand was opening a chocte-covered ice cream bar.


    He held up the cold ice cream bar in front of him. ¡°Come.¡±


    Sun Zinan bit off a corner.


    The chocte was crisp, the cream was cool, and his mouth was full of the sweet, fragrant taste of milk. Tang Kai handed the ice cream to him and asked, ¡°Sweet?¡±


    Sun Zinan refused to take it and said mysteriously, ¡°Won¡¯t you know if you taste it yourself?¡±


    Tang Kai tsked. ¡°You really can¡¯t read the mood. Take it.¡±


    Sun Zinan had just taken the ice cream bar that was missing a corner when Tang Kai grabbed his chin and kissed him. His lips were slightly bitter from the chocte but sweet from the cream. They were colder because of the ice cream bar but the icy feeling seemed to burn instead. For Tang Kai, the cold lips were a delicious dessert, more attractive than honey or poison.


    ¡°Wu...we¡¯re in public, do you want any face!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t like celery.¡±


    ¡°Ah?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m so pitiful, you shouldfort me.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    The glow of the setting sun set the horizon ame. At some point in time, the sound of cicadas had stopped. The wind stilled and the leaves stopped shaking. Only the passionate kiss along with the melted ice cream, under the peaceful, quiet shade, became thest vivid memory of summer.


    The weather became cooler as autumn arrived. Sun Zinan caught a slight cough. Yu Liang had received a WeChat reminder from Tang Kai in the early morning. He took the hot pear soup that had been delivered to take to Sun Zinan and ran into Wang Geng on the way. He could only stand there and greet, ¡°Hello Vice president Wang.¡±


    Every time Wang Geng saw this guy, he would stand there, trembling. Wang Geng suspected it wasn¡¯t because he was afraid of him, it was probably because he was allergic to all of mankind.


    He looked down at the thermos in Yu Liang¡¯s hands. ¡°What are you delivering?¡±


    Yu Liang said quietly, ¡°Pear soup.¡±


    Wang Geng looked at him suspiciously. ¡°Pear soup again? You came to deliver pear soup yesterday. Haven¡¯t you been a little too attentive towards Director Sun these days?¡±


    Silly child Yu Liang said with a straight face, ¡°I meet you every time Ie here. That means we both are at the same level.¡±


    You sycophant, what same level!


    Vice president Wang¡¯s lungs hurt from this thoughtlessness. He turned his face towards the wall in annoyance, not wanting to talk to him.


    The elevator door opened and the two of them walked through the hallway to the door of Sun Zinan¡¯s office. Yu Liang knocked on the door twice. The lock opened automatically. Sun Zinan was currently on the phone and signaled for the two men to wait.


    ¡°Okay...I got it. Keep investigating. Send me a detailed report to my inbox when you get back. That¡¯s all.¡±


    He set his phone down. Yu Liang ced the thermos on his desk and said subserviently, ¡°Director Sun, the morning delivery sent this. Please drink it while it¡¯s still hot.¡±


    Wang Geng didn¡¯t know Tang Kai had done this and felt that this was even more suspicious. ¡°Delivery?¡±


    Sun Zinan coughed lowly and smiled. ¡°No, it¡¯s from my boyfriend. Thanks for sending it.¡±


    Yu Liang was less scared of Sun Zinan by now and he nodded, saying ¡°I¡¯m going back to work¡± before leaving and shutting the door.


    Sun Zinan had always put up a clear divide between his public and private life. Wang Geng knew very little about his private life and didn¡¯t realize he was already taken, and by a man at that. For a moment, he was unsure how to continue the conversation.


    Fortunately, Sun Zinan had no intention of sharing his joys with this single dog. He screwed open the thermos and got straight to the point. ¡°What did youe for? Is it about the ecological park project?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Wang Geng replied. ¡°I just received Wan Tang Real Estate¡¯s reply; they also rejected our offers. The only ones left are Jin Ke Real Estate and Jin Yuan Vi. What should we do?¡±


    ¡°Hold them up and discuss slowly.¡± Sun Zinan said, ¡°Also ask if we can go over and do a field survey.¡±


    ¡°But there¡¯s currently another biotechnologypanypeting for Jin Ke Real Estate,¡± Wang Geng responded. ¡°If we both raise the prices, it won¡¯t be good for us.¡±


    ¡°No worries, raise the prices along with them. Whatever they do, just raise the prices.¡± Sun Zinan finished speaking and saw that the expression on Wang Geng¡¯s face was definitely one of ¡®you¡¯re joking.¡¯ He could only add, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I have it handled.¡±


    Wang Geng looked grave. He wanted to hear how exactly it was handled, but Sun Zinan didn¡¯t say anything else and instead poured out a bowl of steaming hot pear soup. As he took small sips, he asked, ¡°Do you have anything else to say?¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    Vice president Wang gritted his teeth and said, ¡°It¡¯s nothing. Farewell.¡±

 Chapter 22 - The Love Rival is Here!

    <h4>Chapter 22 - The Love Rival is Here!</h4>


    That afternoon, around the time for getting off work, the front desk suddenly phoned Sun Zinan¡¯s office saying there was a woman without an appointment who insisted on meeting him and refused to leave thepany.


    Sun Zinan was speechless at this unprofessional conduct. ¡°Did you ask for her name and her reasons before telling me? Do you still need me to teach you these things?¡±


    The front desk trembled. ¡°I, I asked, she told me to tell you she¡¯s Tang Kai¡¯s ex-girlfriend.¡±


    I have guessed the beginning, but not the end.


    This phrase came into Sun Zinan¡¯s mind. He had been stunned by the words ¡®ex-girlfriend¡¯ and took a while to react. When he returned to his senses, he realized he had already hung up on the front desk.


    Sun Zinan thought about it, but didn¡¯t redial. He got up and took his coat from the coat-hanger. He then took his car keys, locked the office door, and went downstairs.


    Theirpany took up two floors. The front desk was on the first floor. Sun Zinan took the elevator down and saw a woman wearing a well-fitting windbreaker and holding a gray handbag. She stood at the entrance with her back facing the elevator, her figure graceful. She was definitely a beauty just from the silhouette of her back.


    ¡°Hello.¡± Sun Zinan greeted her. ¡°Are you looking for me?¡±


    The woman turned around at the sound of his voice. Her face was indeed beautiful.


    ¡°Hello, my name is Li Ning. Sorry for intruding.¡± Her tone was rather polite, but she didn¡¯t move from where she was standing, her two hands clutching at the handles of her bag. There was a bit of an intangible, arrogant attitude within her words. ¡°I wanted to discuss some matters face-to-face with Mr. Sun.¡±


    From what he knew, this conceited tone was rather familiar; it wasn¡¯t Tang Kai¡¯s type but it was quite like Tang Kai.


    Sun Zinan had been taught by Xie Zhuo on how to recognize different colors of nts. He didn¡¯t realize the fertilizer could actually be used one day.


    He replied politely, ¡°I¡¯ve already gotten off work. If Miss Li wants to talk about business matters, pleasee back tomorrow; if you want to discuss private matters...my apologies, I¡¯m a family man and need to avoid this.¡±


    Li Ning choked.


    She hade prepared to inquire about Sun Zinan¡¯s family background. She knew he had little power in the Hongsen Group, so had gone straight to thepany without any prior notification. Li Ning had thought he was just a handsome good-for-nothing, but didn¡¯t think the opposite party held a knife in his smile and a needle in his voice. He didn¡¯t seem like an easy opponent.


    ¡°You don¡¯t want to hear my matters regarding Tang Kai?¡±


    Sun Zinan remained unmoved. ¡°You should go discuss with him instead.¡±


    Li Ning had eaten two soft nails; she struggled to control her expression but couldn¡¯t help saying, ¡°You¡¯re his boyfriend, shouldn¡¯t you be concerned about him?¡±


    Sun Zinan nced at the front desk, who had so many melons to eat they couldn¡¯t keep up. He said sternly, ¡°Miss Li, whether or not our rtionship is good is not something for outsiders to interfere with. Please identify your position and rtion. Otherwise, if you have no other affairs, please go back. I¡¯m leaving work.¡±


    As soon as his expression darkened, Li Ning lost her bluster, but she gritted her teeth and insisted, ¡°Mr. Sun, I just want to sit with you and have a good conversation together. If you¡¯re not even interested in Tang Kai¡¯s future, then please leave easily and pretend I haven¡¯te at all.¡±


    The woman hit at Sun Zinan¡¯s sore point and finally seeded in drawing his attention.


    He looked at Li Ning with a hint of interest. This was the first time someone had said they could change Tang Kai¡¯s future, so he thought it was a fresh topic. He thus retreated. ¡°This isn¡¯t a ce to talk. There¡¯s a cafe downstairs and the coffee is decent. Let me treat Miss Li to a cup of coffee.¡±


    The two of them left the first floor and found seats next to a green potted nt.


    Li Ning ordered a t white. Sun Zinan couldn¡¯t drink coffee and ordered a pot of ck tea instead to fit the asion. The air was infused with the fragrant aroma of coffee. A violin solo flowed in the background. It was a very romantic scene. For some reason, Sun Zinan suddenly seemed somewhat distracted, thinking of the little counter at the student store on Tang Kai¡¯s campus. He made a note to himself to bring Tang Kai here the next time they were free.


    The calmer Sun Zinan looked, the more worried Li Ning became. When the music in the background reached a pause, she finally couldn¡¯t keep her emotions in check anymore and started the conversation. ¡°Tang Kai and I were high school ssmates and went abroad at Prince¡¯s College in America together. He graduated a year earlier than I did and broke off contact after he came back to China.¡±


    Sun Zinan nodded, seemingly not all anxious, and leisurely motioned for her to continue.


    Li Ning said, ¡°I quit my job in the US for him and came all the way back to China just to find out he...¡± Her voice cracked and she paused before continuing, ¡°Was with you.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°So?¡±


    ¡°I was young and ignorant then. I thought we would have a lot of time in the future, so we would still have a chance. But after I lost him, I realized how important he is to me.¡± Li Ning said, ¡°I don¡¯t want to lose him this time.¡±


    ¡°But he already has me.¡± Sun Zinan smiled. ¡°What do you think he should do?¡±


    Li Ning nodded slightly. ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯m here today.¡±


    ¡°Tang Kai is a man of great ambition and he has a passion and talent for research, so he might be a little different than others. I¡¯m simr to him, so I understand his needs better than you do. Also, Tang Kai ns on continuing to teach at school. If he is with me, his future path will be easier to walk.¡±


    Sun Zinan asked, ¡°How will it be ¡®easier to walk¡¯?¡±


    Li Ning¡¯s attempt to keep her tone humble did not hide the hint of pride within. ¡°My father works in the school¡¯s education department.¡±


    To be able to promote an aplished professor like Tang Kai, this education department was definitely not ordinary. Sun Zinan nodded tranquilly. ¡°Wow, good family background.¡±


    ¡°You have nothing to give him.¡± Li Ning seemed to have regained her confidence from his approval. ¡°There¡¯s a forum on genomics in B City the day after tomorrow. Professor Tang is attending. I will be going. So before that, I have to be clear with you. I¡¯m going to start over with him.¡±


    ¡°After talking so much, you¡¯ve finally reached your point. To put it bluntly, Miss Li just wants me to step out on my own vition, right?¡± Sun Zinan asked with curiosity, ¡°What if I refuse? What do you n on doing? Are you going to have your dad disrupt Tang Kai¡¯s academic career?¡±


    Li Ning had no answer to this.


    ¡°Do you agree?¡± Sun Zinan smirked. ¡°I really have to say, Miss Li, you think too little of me.¡±


    He leaned backfortably against the sofa chair. ¡°Since you¡¯vee here on your own, you must have investigated me in advance. Then why did you think someone like me would ever let Tang Kai go for the sake of a glorious future?¡±


    ¡°You might be simr to him, but I¡¯m an inhumane bastard.¡± Sun Zinan¡¯s expression was full of regret. ¡°I¡¯d prefer if he didn¡¯t have a job and was a handsome young man who stayed at home all day, waiting for me to provide for him. You¡¯re trying to y the ¡®if I can¡¯t have him I¡¯ll ruin him¡¯ game aren¡¯t you? Sure. Go ahead and ruin him. I don¡¯t have any objections.¡±


    Li Ning said frantically, ¡°That¡¯s not my intent!¡±


    ¡°Stop pretending.¡± Sun Zinan said coldly, ¡°Everything you¡¯ve said is aimed at that intent. You talk about appreciating his talent, but for the sake of a little personal affection you¡¯ll destroy his career. Miss Li, isn¡¯t it tiring doing sit-ups? Do you even have the face to sit here and discuss romantic rtionships with me?¡±


    Li Ning had been cornered by him into sitting on pins and needles. Her face flushed red then paled intermittently.


    ¡°I just like him and hope he will have good opportunities and a good future!¡± She finally couldn¡¯t resist raising her voice. ¡°You keep twisting my words!¡±


    ¡°The truth doesn¡¯t lie in how loud your voice is, not how lofty your words are. You didn¡¯t look for Tang Kai today, but came to find me instead. All you wanted to do was disy a pitiful image in front of him, so he could think you were an infatuated little fairy. Do you dare repeat what you said just now in front of Tang Kai?¡± Sun Zinan¡¯s attitude was still leisurely. ¡°A mistress is just a mistress, don¡¯t use simr personalities as an excuse. If you dare interfere, prepare yourself for a beating. You¡¯re offering yourself up for one.¡±


    Li Ning tightly grasped the handle of the ceramic cup. ¡°Please get it straight. I knew him first. If you didn¡¯t step in, his partner would obviously be me! Who¡¯s the interfering mistress here?¡±


    ¡°You really should reexamine your logical reasoning.¡± Sun Zinan took a sip of tea. ¡°¡®If¡¯ is just a hypothetical. If it didn¡¯t happen, then it didn¡¯t happen. Saying ¡®if¡¯ and ¡®what if¡¯ is of no use.¡±


    ¡°Anyways, ording to your im that you and Tang Kai are old acquaintances, if you were going to date you would have gotten together a long time ago. The fact that you aren¡¯t together means the two of you don¡¯t have any affinity. For someone who has known him for so many years, you can¡¯t evenpare to theter me. The problem is with you, not me.¡±


    Li Ning had been angered into losing all reason. She said in a rage, ¡°You¡¯re harming him! There¡¯s no good end to same-sex rtionships! Are you going to drag him to hell with you?¡±


    Her agitation drew the attention of the nearby customers and several heads turned to stare at their table. The waiter saw there was something wrong and came forward to make a request, but was stopped by Sun Zinan¡¯s raised hand.


    ¡°I just don¡¯t understand where your confidencees from. You even daree up and ask me to back off and send Tang Kai to you.¡± Sun Zinan said, ¡°I¡¯ll have to trouble you to remember clearly. He¡¯s my person. I won¡¯t let go. He has to spend the rest of his life in hell with me. Understood?¡±


    He had started off calmly, but the more he spoke the more he couldn¡¯t repress his anger. Once he was angry, he decided he didn¡¯t want to bother with keeping face anymore. ¡°I¡¯m not as well-bred as Miss Li and I don¡¯t follow the ¡®firste, first served¡¯ rule. I¡¯ll end today¡¯s talk here: if you dare to mess with Tang Kai, I will dare to make your father sing tears of sorrow for the rest of his life. If you don¡¯t believe me, you can try. We can see what happens.¡±


    ¡°If Tang Kai doesn¡¯t have a job, I can support him for the rest of his life.¡± Sun Zinan gave her a slightly psychotic, cold smile. His tone was light and vague. ¡°But if your father can¡¯t give you money, what kind of cute fairy can you be?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s one more thing I think you should understand. I met Tang Kai on an arranged date. Do you know what an arranged date means? It means that if you want to dig at a corner, not only will you have to ask me for my permission, but you will also have to ask the Sun and Tang families if they agree.¡±


    The wrathful demon king had finally released his rage and he got up, taking his coat with him. In the span of a second, his expression returned back to neutral as he told Li Ning, ¡°I already paid the bill. If you don¡¯t have anything else to say, I¡¯ll be leaving first. Goodbye.¡±


    He turned away after speaking and pushed open the ss door of the coffee shop, walking out into an early autumn rain.


    Li Ning stared nkly, her eyes red. The coffee on the table hadpletely cooled down.


    It was some time before her frantically beating heart finally slowed down. The scalp-numbing terror of being stared at by that ferocious beast slowly subsided.


    She took in a deep breath and felt her hands and feet go weak, her eyes full of tears.


    Sun Zinan¡¯sst words had not been that terrible. The terrible part was the person himself. Li Ning had never faced someone who was actually psychotic before, and could not understand how a normal person could possibly have such a fear-inducing expression in their eyes. That cold smile just now turned into asting shadow on her heart.


    Why would Tang Kai like a person like that?


    She wasn¡¯t actually Tang Kai¡¯s ex-girlfriend. To be exact, she had always been one-sidedly observing Tang Kai. She had secretly liked him in high school and pursued him abroad in college. She and Tang Kai were not in the same major, but theirbs were close. All her ssmates knew her intentions and would often joke and tease her about it. But Tang Kai seemed to never sense her affections and never responded to her.


    She hadn¡¯t been too clear on Tang Kai¡¯s family background and only had the vague idea that his parents worked with the government. Tang Kai was very lowkey and received his associate professor appointment at Tianhai University through his own merits, not his connections. This had led her to think that if her father could be his backer, Tang Kai could go even further in his career, and their lives together would have a little more security.


    And as for Sun Zinan, it was even more absurd. Her friend and Sun Zinan¡¯s sister, Sun Ziyi, were the most influential wives in the same circle of connections. She often heard Sun Ziyi talk disapprovingly of her youngest brother, saying he was mediocre and worthless. Li Nin had believed those words. After she chanced upon Tang Kai at that shop, she had secretly followed them around for a few days. She had seen that Sun Zinan¡¯s life consisted of nothing but going to work, going home, and an asional outing with Tang Kai. This made her very confident and she decided that the next time there was a forum, Tang Kai would definitely notice her. She lost her mind at this and went to find Sun Zinan at hispany.


    She had thought...although Sun Zinan had money, he was just a pretty embroidered pillow, a mere fa?ade. Tang Kai¡¯s academic talent was too brilliant and he needed to find a lifetimepanion who had a simr personality and interests.


    But today, after Sun Zinan¡¯s mouth full of resentment, Li Ning finally realized that not only had she underestimated Sun Zinan, she had also never really understood Tang Kai.

 Chapter 23 - A Very Careless Quarrel

    <h4>Chapter 23 - A Very Careless Quarrel</h4>


    5 PM, in the parking lot of Yinghong Tower.


    After delivering pear soup for a few days, Tang Kai couldn¡¯t resist the temptation of showing his affections in person. After his meeting, he drove directly to Sun Zinan¡¯spany building to give him a proper chauffeuring service.


    Who knew that he would wait and wait and still not see any glimpse of his Boss Sun. Tang Kai was about to get out of the car to find him when he saw two people walk out of the building and enter the caf¨¦ next door.


    Tang Kai had good eyesight and recognized one of them as Sun Zinan. The other person¡¯s face was too blurry but the figure was obviously female. An rm bell suddenly sounded in his mind.


    He was a mature lover and wouldn¡¯t easily eat vinegar; she was probably a business partner and Sun Zinan wasn¡¯t interested in women...but a few minutester, he saw the rxed smile on Sun Zinan¡¯s face through the window. Tang Kai¡¯s ss heart finally cracked and shattered.


    He was drinking coffee and smiling at another person thiste at night!


    When the two of them had first met, Sun Zinan hadn¡¯t even sipped at histte. Howe he liked drinking coffee now! What about his pear soup!


    Once someone started being unreasonable, he would be sure to choose the worst oue out of the hundred possibilities in front of him.


    The autumn wind and rain blew drearily in front of the window, just like Professor Tang¡¯s mood.


    As he sat there in disappointment, gritting his teeth, he thought about how his life was now meaningless and that he hadn¡¯t even bought his house and diamond ring yet before his partner ran off. At the same time, he felt like he couldn¡¯t take advantage of Sun Zinan anymore and wanted to rush in and hug his thigh like he was the emperor, letting him know that nothing in the world was worth losing him.


    As he lost himself in his thoughts, the two people had finished their conversation. Sun Zinan got up and left.


    Tang Kai¡¯s eyes immediately became like a microscope, staring dedicatedly through the widow. The woman was still sitting there, her hands covering her face as if she were crying.


    At the other end, Sun Zinan pushed open the ss door and walked straight into the rain without an umbre.


    Over a hundred dog blood stories shed through Tang Kai¡¯s head. His heart conjured the possibility that the falling flowers were yearning for love, but the heartless brook rippled on on and that the pearls fell like tears at the parting after marriage...the two of them broke up?


    His line of sight left the cafe window and unconsciously fell on Sun Zinan¡¯s retreating back, until he turned the corner and disappeared¡ª


    Wait a moment!


    What was that fool doing? It was raining!


    After driving a deep suspicion of life into Li Ning, Sun Zinan left the scene in a lowkey manner. This absurd theater should have ended there; he had been the ultimate winner. But the moment he stepped out of the store, Sun Zinan could clearly sense something breaking in his heart, feeling like he had just jumped off the edge of a teetering cliff.


    So many years had passed, and he had almost forgotten he was still a patient who needed to see a doctor.


    His face still held the expression that had scared Li Ning so much. No wonder; her pure and ignorant self had knocked upon the door of the lord by herself, but the darkness under the mask had been enough to frighten the little girl to tears.


    Sun Zinan could rationally judge that Tang Kai didn¡¯t have any feelings for Li Ning. He was also clear that Tang Kai knew nothing about Li Ninging to find him today.


    Tang Kai hadn¡¯t done anything wrong, but to say that Sun Zinan didn¡¯t bear any difort towards this would be pushing it.


    The sky was overcast, and cold rain continued catching at the edges of his hair. A feeling of depression rose like the tide, engulfing the quiet beach. He had the delusion that his entire being was about to be washed into gray. Sun Zinan tried to stand against the impact of the rushing waves, but his mind was in a state of disarray. He had to cool his thoughts with the icy coldness of the outside world.


    He walked aimlessly through the rain, brushing against all sorts of people. The light drizzle gradually turned into a heavy rainfall. Night came and the streetmps lit up. A mist covered his vision. A world that was clearly full of life had been covered by ayer of ss, dim and distant, making it unclear who had lost their consciousness.


    He ran into a person in front of him with a thump.


    The curtain of rain was cut off by a ck umbre over his head. Sun Zinan traced his eyes up the gray suit and saw the frosty face of a demon king.


    ¡°Why are you here.¡± Sun Zinan spoke lightly, as if nothing was going on. ¡°Did you get off work early today?¡±


    His shoulders were wet and his hair covered in drops of water. Although he hadn¡¯t been drenched thoroughly, he looked rather pitiful. Tang Kai didn¡¯t fear anything else, but he was afraid Sun Zinan wouldn¡¯t take care of his body seriously. He had been suffering from a chronic illness for the past few days and had just walked in the rain for so long just now. With his small frame, if he caught a cold, it wouldn¡¯t be anything good.


    ¡°I came to pick you up from work,¡± Tang Kai said.


    Sun Zinan nodded. He didn¡¯t even bother making a sound in acknowledgement.


    Tang Kai saw that he wasn¡¯t speaking. He didn¡¯t have much self-restraint left and was a little angry, so heined, ¡°Why are you wandering about without an umbre on such a cold day?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°No reason, just casually taking a stroll.¡±


    Tang Kai pursed his lips in displeasure, knowing he hadn¡¯t told the truth and was still pretending nothing had happened. He reached out and wiped at a raindrop on the side of his face.


    Sun Zinan was warning himself, it wasn¡¯t Tang Kai¡¯s fault, he didn¡¯t know anything, don¡¯tsh out your feelings at innocent people. But Tang Kai wouldn¡¯t stop recklessly scooting over and scolded, ¡°You know you can¡¯t expose yourself like this to the wind, right? Don¡¯t you know your own physical condition? What do you think I get up early every morning to deliver pear soup for? But then? You just go ahead and do this to yourself?¡±


    Sun Zinan still didn¡¯t look at him, furrowing his brows as he replied wearily, ¡°I know.¡±


    ¡°What the hell do you know!¡± Tang Kai was about to explode in anger over his unenthusiastic, half-dead attitude and he raised his voice. ¡°I know you think my words are just the wind next to your ears!¡±


    Sun Zinan couldn¡¯t really understand what he was saying and only felt that his voice was buzzing in his ears, like a crowd of bugs singing and dancing. He stifled his emotions and said impatiently, ¡°Why are you shouting?¡±


    Tang Kai¡¯s heart skipped a beat and his expression suddenly became cold.


    It wasn¡¯t because the fire had been put out; instead, his anger had be real mes.


    Although the two of them had a few small arguments like this before, Sun Zinan had never pushed him away. This was the first time Tang Kai felt a clear sense of ¡®impatience¡¯ exuding from him.


    It wasn¡¯t eagerness to fight, nor anger, but annoyance.


    This attitude was more hurtful than words, even more serious than if Sun Zinan had pointed at Tang Kai and told him to get out.


    Tang Kai thought to himself, I¡¯ve patheticallye to pick you up from work but you only think of someone else. Forget about enacting a sad scene in the rain, but your stubborn face is full of a dead pig who doesn¡¯t fear hot water. Wasozi so cheap he had to hurry and make himself miserable? The fuck does it matter to me whether you¡¯re dead or alive, have a cold or a fever!


    ¡°Sure, go ahead.¡± The more he thought about it, the angrier he became, until his hands were trembling. He thrust the umbre in Sun Zinan¡¯s arms and said coldly, ¡°I¡¯m not bothering with you, do whatever you want.¡±


    After saying this, he turned around and left.


    Sun Zinan was caught off guard and staggered backwards. He didn¡¯t catch the umbre, and his shoes filled with the muddy water by the road.


    In the somber light of dusk, Tang Kai¡¯s back was lonely and cold, merging quickly into the crowd and out of his sight.


    The rain fell heavier and heavier. A pool of water quickly gathered in the open umbre. Sun Zinan was like agging phone, only moving after a while, as if calmly epting Tang Kai¡¯s unteral deration of war. He nced indifferently at the umbre on the ground, then put his hands into his pockets. As if he couldn¡¯t feel the icy rain beating against his face, he continued walking forward.


    Leave. It was best if everyone left. If he didn¡¯t leave now, he¡¯d leave eventually anyway.


    Love was forever something that dripped honey from one side and arsenic the other. Although Sun Zinan loved its sweet outer shell, he couldn¡¯t bear the endless jealousy, envy, obsession, and grief within.


    He was like a cat craving the aroma of chocte, thinking he had found something edible. He had never thought there wouldn¡¯t be exceptions, and that he would still be poisoned.


    The color of night deepened. The entire street was filled with the reflection of lights against the water, as though it were a shining river. It was beautiful, but a little cold. Sun Zinan didn¡¯t pay attention to where he was going, wandering aimlessly along the sidewalk. He didn¡¯t know how far he had gone when there was a sudden didi¡ª of a car horn behind him.


    The ck BMW slid smoothly to his side. Tang Kai lowered his window and said expressionlessly, ¡°Get in.¡±


    His tone was awful and frigid, and he didn¡¯t even look at Sun Zinan. If he wasn¡¯t stopped by the side of the road, he would have looked like he was merely waiting at a red light.


    Sun Zinan turned away and coughed twice, his chest aching a little. After slowly walking around in the rain for half an hour, his mood had be a little better, and he finally realized he had to set boundaries for his physical health. He couldn¡¯t risk his life so he wasn¡¯t obstinate about it anymore.


    But before he got in the car, he put his hand against the front door out of habit before suddenly realizing something. His hand hovered in the air for a moment, then turned towards the back car door.


    Tang Kai, holding in his resentment, ¡°...¡±


    Sun Zinan entered the back row, wrapped in his wet windbreaker, and said coldly, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Tang Kai didn¡¯t respond and stepped on the gas pedal.


    By the time the car reached Sun Zinan¡¯s apartment, Sun Zinan had almost fallen asleep in the back row. It seemed like Tang Kai was still angry. Without saying a word, he turned the lights off in the car, hinting that it was time for Sun Zinan to get off the car.


    Sun Zinan braced himself against the door as he got out of the car. Before he even entered his apartment building, he heard the engine start. He turned back to only catch exhaust and car lights. Without knowing why, he sighed softly.


    It was as if an icy, dead silence had swept through his heart like a cold wind. They came in ripples. Although it was dark, they seemed to carry a bit of life.


    Probably everyone who had been left behind, no matter how indifferent they were, felt a little ufortable in their hearts.


    Sun Zinan went into his apartment in the dark, not even bothering to turn on the light. He was afraid seeing the empty room would make him miserable. He didn¡¯t know why he was so tired today. He took a quick shower and without eating dinner, went back to his bedroom, wrapped himself in his quilt, and went to sleep.


    But although he fell asleep, he slept fitfully and woke himself up in the middle of the night.


    Sun Zinan thought he had slept through the entire night but saw that it was only 12:30 AM when he checked his phone. His head hurt like crazy and he was sweating heavily. He knew he had a fever without even checking. He was toozy to get up and get medicine. He thought the sweating would help with his fever, so he wrapped himself up like a cocoon within his nkets andy still in his bed.


    For thetter half of the night, Sun Zinan was half-asleep. Although he felt hot and ufortable, covered in the sweat, the feeling of sudden heat alternating with cold did not reappear and his temperature subsided.


    At 8:30 AM, Sun Zinan answered a call from Xie Zhuo. Before he even said ¡°Hello?¡± a sudden itch urred in his throat. He didn¡¯t even have the time to catch his breath before bursting out into a violent cough.

 Chapter 24 - Moments Reading Level 10

    <h4>Chapter 24 - Moments Reading Level 10</h4>


    Outside the hospital clinic.


    Xie Zhuo hunched over the counter and chatted with the front desk receptionist for a few minutes before taking a thermometer over to Sun Zinan. ¡°Here. Take your temperature.¡±


    Sun Zinan wore a mask, his expression haggard as he stretched his hand out to take the thermometer. ¡°Thanks.¡±


    Xie Zhuo sighed and took out a mini makeup mirror from his bag. He nced at his reflection. ¡°You scared me this morning. I came out without even putting on makeup.¡±


    Sun Zinan put the thermometer under his clothes. His voice was hoarse and it was a little difficult to talk, so he sounded rather harsh. ¡°Good thing it wasn¡¯t a heart attack; by the time you got there my body would¡¯ve turned cold.¡±


    ¡°Pei, what do you mean?¡± Xie Zhuo yfully hit him, then took out his phone. ¡°I should give Tang Kai a call...¡±


    Sun Zinan raised his hand to stop him.


    ¡°En?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t call him.¡±


    Xie Zhuo, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    When he saw that Sun Zinan wasn¡¯t responding, he immediately understood. ¡°You guys fought? Why?¡±


    It was strange thinking about it¡ªevery time Sun Zinan had something going on with Tang Kai, Xie Zhuo would immediately appear and discover something wrong. He was like a little assistant in a game.


    ¡°I...¡± He wanted to say there was nothing wrong, but he felt like Tang Kai was really angry this time. Sun Zinan didn¡¯t think he had the ability to call him back so the words changed as they reached his mouth. ¡°I guess we fought.¡±


    Xie Zhuo rolled his eyes. ¡°Fighting is fighting, not fighting is not fighting. What do you mean ¡®I guess we fought¡¯!¡±


    Sun Zinan sighed feebly and told him everything that had happened the day before.


    Xie Zhuo had never expected that after all his years of training, Sun Zinan would still sink under some other white lotus. This was a great provocation to him and he flung his arms about, saying indignantly, ¡°I¡¯ll go, what¡¯s the woman¡¯s name? Give her contact details to me. This old mother will have to meet with her.¡±


    Sun Zinan felt a headacheing on. ¡°Please rest for a while.¡±


    ¡°Tang Kai this bastard, you¡¯re dead. Has a girlfriend and fucking pretends he¡¯s gay.¡± Xie Zhuo fumed, ¡°Don¡¯t hold me back. I¡¯m going to curse him so much today his mother won¡¯t even recognize him...¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°He doesn¡¯t know. I didn¡¯t tell him. This isn¡¯t his fault to begin with.¡±


    ¡°Big bro, are you the Virgin Mary?¡± Xie Zhuo asked in rage, ¡°He¡¯s made you so stressed you¡¯re like this now, and you still defend him?¡±


    ¡°This really has nothing to do with him.¡± Sun Zinan said, ¡°I did this to myself. I wanted to stand in the rain for a while to calm down.¡±


    Xie Zhuo didn¡¯t expect him to not hate his enemies. He had even written up his bad review but could only nestle back in his chair. ¡°Oh, I know, you¡¯re saying it¡¯s a good idea to do this.¡±


    Sun Zinan thought it over then said, ¡°Actually, I don¡¯t know how to handle this. I know this isn¡¯t Tang Kai¡¯s fault but I still feel bad about it.¡±


    ¡°So you didn¡¯t tell him,¡± Xie Zhuo said coolly. ¡°Trying to solve a problem by yourself, but when others don¡¯t understand, you hurt your body and heart.¡±


    Instead of replying sarcastically, Sun Zinan merely listened to him quietly. This made Xie Zhuo feel like something wasn¡¯t quite right and he was finally aware of the gravity of the situation.


    ¡°You...huh.¡± He asked cautiously, ¡°Do you like Tang Kai that much?¡±


    Sun Zinan was stunned by his question.


    ¡°I thought we were nning on getting married.¡± He smiled mockingly to himself. ¡°What do you think?¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Xie Zhuo immediately caught onto the main point of the issue. ¡°So in that case, shouldn¡¯t you guys justmunicate and resolve everything? Tang Kai won¡¯t turn away from you just for that woman, right?¡±


    ¡°Toote.¡± Sun Zinan looked down at the calendar on his phone. ¡°He¡¯s flying to B City today and is attending a forum there tomorrow. Li Ning...that woman, she¡¯s going too.¡±


    Xie Zhuo wondered out loud, ¡°What does that have to do with anything? If you need to talk about it then talk about it. Can Li Ning run up to you and tackle you to the ground or something?¡±


    ¡°Even though I think Li Ning is probably telling lies, I can¡¯t guarantee it. What if Tang Kai really has her in his heart? What if they really had just missed the timing in those years?¡± Sun Zinan coughed twice into his mask. ¡°He¡¯s free to choose his partner. I can¡¯t interfere.¡±


    Xie Zhuo never knew Sun Zinan was some hidden saint of love, but his mouth suddenly opened in an ¡®O¡¯ shape. ¡°Ge, did the fever make you dumb!¡±


    Sun Zinan took his thermometer out and looked at it. 39 degrees. ¡°Huh, guess I really am dumb from the fever.¡±


    As he said this, his number was called. He stopped the conversation, got up, and walked into the clinic. The Xie Zhuo who had been left outside began thinking.


    He felt like this was developing in a weird direction, as if something wasn¡¯t quite right.


    B City, Blue Star Hotel.


    As arranged by the organizers, Tang Kai shared a hotel room with another researcher from Tianhai University. The professor wasn¡¯t arriving until tomorrow afternoon. Tang Kai put his bag on the table and sat down in a chair by the window. His upright posture rxed. Looking out into the dusk, he couldn¡¯t resist taking his phone out and checking his WeChat.


    There were no new messages.


    In his chat with Sun Zinan, the messages had stopped at yesterday¡¯s ¡®I¡¯m going to ss.¡¯ There were also no movements in his moments.


    Sun Zinan, this pig trotter! Didn¡¯t even take the initiative to coax him!


    Tang Kai sulkily threw his phone onto his bed.


    He was very clear that this cold war had been started by him and that the person who had run off quietly to B City was him. If he thought about it carefully, he was the one who had made a rather big mistake. But he still expected Sun Zinan toe talk to him first and stretch out an olive branch of peace. Just as he had once epted Sun Zinan¡¯s stubbornness and naivety, he wanted Sun Zinan to let him know that even if he wasn¡¯t perfect and made asional mistakes, he would still have him in his heart.


    Not only was Tang Kai a person who sulked easily, he was rather possessive. He wanted to eat Sun Zinan¡¯s vinegar but still wanted Sun Zinan to care about his feelings. He was clearly at the point of bruising his own intestines, but he refused to be the first to show weakness.


    The more he thought about it, the angrier he became. Seeing that his phone was still dead with no sign of any messages, he huffily went downstairs to eat dinner.


    At the same time, in Sun Zinan¡¯s apartment.


    Xie Zhuo poured Sun Zinan¡¯s congee into a bowl and added a few side dishes before knocking on the bedroom door. After a while, Sun Zinanzily dragged himself into the dining room. He coughed for a while after sitting, then thanked Xie Zhuo. ¡°I¡¯ve troubled you.¡±


    ¡°Do we have to act like strangers?¡± Xie Zhuo handed him a spoon. ¡°Have some congee. You haven¡¯t eaten all day.¡±


    Sun Zinan slowly picked at the rice grains, every mouthful even smaller than a bird¡¯s. Xie Zhuo felt secondhand anxiety from just watching him. ¡°Are you still ufortable? Should we go to the hospital for an IV?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± Sun Zinan forced a smile, his expression haggard. ¡°I just woke up so I don¡¯t have much of an appetite. I¡¯ll be okay in a bit.¡±


    When Sun Zinan visited the clinic in the morning, the doctor had told him he was suffering from upper respiratory tract infections and bronchitis. He was prescribed a collection of anti-inmmatory drugs for colds. The doctor suggested that if he wanted to get rid of the fever quickly, he could get a shot for reducing fever. Sun Zinan had a bit of trauma over needles so he took the medicine and went home to sleep the entire day instead.


    He felt a little better now than he had this morning probably due to the medicine, but his temperature was still a little high.


    Xie Zhuo didn¡¯t taste any of the food he ate. He was thinking that Sun Zinan wasn¡¯t suffering from just a cold, but also mentally. He still remembered Sun Zinan had seen a doctor for depression when he was abroad, so he was especially concerned about his mood swings, fearing that would he have a rpse if he wasn¡¯t careful.


    If no one watched and Sun Zinan jumped off a building, Tang Kai would definitelye for Xie Zhuo¡¯s life.


    ¡°What are you thinking about?¡± Sun Zinan looked at him strangely. ¡°Your face is twitching.¡±


    ¡°Ah...it¡¯s nothing.¡± Xie Zhuo quickly retracted his wild thoughts and said, ¡°I¡¯m thinking, don¡¯t you think it¡¯s a little strange that Tang Kai is angry?¡±


    Sun Zinan raised his brows in bewilderment


    Xie Zhuo, ¡°I¡¯ve been feeling like there was something wrong since this morning. It¡¯s understandable if he¡¯s a little upset because you don¡¯t care about your health, but this is a trifling thing; isn¡¯t his reaction a little too strong?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°En...you¡¯re right.¡±


    During Sun Ying¡¯s birthday banquet, things had been so out of control, yet Tang Kai was still able to remain calm. His anger this time was truly out of the ordinary. But up until now, Sun Zinan could not figure out where the mes had been ignited. He could not think of anything else that would make him angry.


    ¡°I have a guess, although it¡¯s very dog blood, but it makes sense.¡± Xie Zhuo said solemnly, ¡°Let¡¯s start from the beginning. After you met with Li Ning, you went out in the rain and wandered around on the street. Then you met Tang Kai. He stopped you for a while, you ignored him, so he got angry. Is that how it went?¡±


    ¡°Right.¡± Sun Zinan nodded.


    ¡°Have you realized? You¡¯ve overlooked a key issue.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    Xie Zhuo knocked the table in a mysterious, lofty manner. ¡°Think about it, you were randomly walking around. How could you have just coincidentally run into Tang Kai? What if he had been following you?¡±


    Watson, you¡¯ve found the blind spot.


    Sun Zinan¡¯s mind had been in a disordered state at that time. After Xie Zhuo mentioned it, he suddenly realized Tang Kai had really seemed like he had already been waiting for a long time...did he follow him from the parking lot?


    Then did he...already see Li Ning?


    Detective Xie Zhuo continued to analyze it in detail. ¡°My overall hypothesis is, Tang Kai saw you and Li Ning, but he didn¡¯t recognize his ex-girlfriend because the two of them have been separated for so many years. He thought the woman you were with was an old acquaintance, and you were in a depressed mood. If he identally mistook the situation and thought you were in love with the woman, then it¡¯s pretty likely he was angry from eating vinegar...¡±


    Sun Zinan¡¯s mind buzzed numbly. He waspletely bewildered.


    His downfall was that he watched too few TV dramas. His imagination was too limited and he had never thought this train of thought was possible. Xie Zhuo, on the other hand, had used his dramatic thinking to put together aplete picture of the incident and even guessed it pretty correctly.


    ¡°It can¡¯t be that much of a coincidence.¡± Sun Zinan didn¡¯t know whether to cry orugh. ¡°What kind of fucking thing is this...¡±


    ¡°A coincidence or not, won¡¯t you know after asking him?¡± Xie Zhuo opened his WeChat moments and as soon as he mindlessly refreshed it, his eyes suddenly widened. ¡°Fuck, speak of the devil!¡±


    ¡°En? What?¡±


    Xie Zhuo pushed his cell phone over. ¡°Look look! What did I say! My old uncle¡¯s new moments status.¡±


    Sun Zinan thought to himself, this guy had just been cursing all morning but now was calling Tang Kai old uncle again.


    He took the phone and looked at it. The newest status update was from Tang Kai. He rarely saw Tang Kai post daily life status updates. The person wasn¡¯t in the picture and there was only the fiery sunset outside the window, along with a cup of coffee on the dining table.


    The caption was a [goodnight] emoticon.


    Sun Zinan wondered out loud, ¡°Can he sleep after drinking coffee at night? And still say goodnight?¡±


    Xie Zhuo was beside himself. ¡°Are you stupid! Look at the location he tagged! B City¡¯s Blue Star Hotel! When has he ever tagged a location in his statuses!¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°So?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s using a different method to make peace with you.¡± Xie Zhuo was like a dog that had stuffed himself, plopping himself over the table, howling, ¡°That ¡®good night¡¯ was obviously for you to see...¡±

 Chapter 25 - Whos the Rival?

    <h4>Chapter 25 - Who¡¯s the Rival?</h4>


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t understand. They were not on the same wavelength in sending and analyzing status updates. Maybe Tang Kai and Xie Zhuo couldmunicate through brain waves¡ªotherwise, how could Xie Zhuo read 500 words of meaning when he couldn¡¯t see anything?


    ¡°That¡¯s ridiculous...¡± Sun Zinan spoke half in doubt but half in belief. ¡°Maybe he¡¯s just showing off the sun.¡±


    Xie Zhuo sighed despondently. ¡°Is my old uncle the type of person who always posts statuses on his moments?¡±


    ¡°Look at his photo album. Thest time he posted a daily life update was during the barbecue, right? Believe me brother, if he¡¯s not secretly trying to send you a message, I¡¯ll take off my bra and give it to you.¡±


    ¡°Nonono, no need.¡± Sun Zinan hurriedly refused. ¡°You should keep something that precious.¡±


    Although they had not reached any definite conclusion, Sun Zinan¡¯s mood had reached a better state than before.


    Xie Zhuo¡¯s anxious heart calmed down a bit. He thought to himself, shamelessly expressing himself was still not as good as one emoticon from Tang Kai. Sun Zinan was truly a pig trotter who took love more seriously than friendships.


    The next morning.


    The first thing Tang Kai did after waking up was to take his phone, open WeChat and nce at it, then let his raised arm fall back onto his quilt in disappointment.


    It seemed like his status update yesterday hadn¡¯t been effective. Maybe Sun Zinan hadn¡¯t noticed it at all, or maybe his implication was too ambiguous?


    The day was dreary, starting from having no new messages. He sullenly got up to wash and change into sportswear to run at the hotel gym.


    The two-day forum was located at arge conference center not far from the hotel. Tang Kai was one of the earlier risers. After exercising, he changed his clothes and went downstairs, just in time for the first round of breakfast.


    This hotel¡¯s self-serve buffet breakfast was abundant. The food served was decent and varied, but as Tang Kai ate, he felt like there was something missing.


    It was probably because the food didn¡¯t have the taste of a dish that had juste steaming hot out of a pot, nor was it particrly to his taste.


    Also, the scene of a man with a family and a house sitting by himself eating breakfast in a hotel as he red across the table was a little dismal.


    Tang Kai had to admit he had been spoiled by Sun Zinan, just like how some cats who were used to eating fresh canned food would never touch dry food again¡ªhe had been tamed from the stomach to the heart by Sun Zinan.


    He was as hurt as a traveling frog that had been logged out from the game.


    A faint scent of perfume wafted over and a gentle, clear voice asked him, ¡°Hello, may I sit here?¡±


    Tang Kai raised his head to see a youngdy wearing neat makeup carrying a te, looking at him with a slight smile.


    ¡°Please sit.¡± Tang Kai moved his cup back.


    Li Ning said softly, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    She was pretty and well-dressed¡ªa beauty pleasant to the eye.


    But Tang Kai was more bent than the U shape and had no ability to appreciate women. Additionally, staring at others wasn¡¯t very polite. He quickly withdrew his gaze and forced himself to look at his phone again.


    Li Ning¡¯s smile stiffened for a moment, but when he didn¡¯t recognize her, she continued, ¡°Professor Tang, do you remember me?¡±


    ¡°En?¡± Tang Kai didn¡¯t expect to meet an acquaintance. He stared at her for a few seconds and felt like she seemed familiar, but he couldn¡¯t remember where he had met her before so asked, ¡°Sorry, you are&#k2026;?¡±


    A hint of disappointment shed through her eyes, but she quickly covered it up and went straight to the point. ¡°I¡¯m Li Ning, I was at Eighteenth High School and did my PhD at Prince¡¯s College in the United States. You might not remember, but myb was downstairs from yours.¡±


    Tang Kai still didn¡¯t remember, so could only pretend he did and said with a dry smile, ¡°Oh, so it¡¯s a ssmate. What a pleasant coincidence.¡±


    Li Ning leaned to the side and took out a small business card from her leather bag.


    In the brief moment she turned around, her silhouette was disyed before Tang Kai¡¯s eyes. It was a view he remembered, one that had appeared behind the window of a coffee shop, wet with rain.


    It was like a small needle had stabbed him in a nerve. The truth hade to light. Tang Kai¡¯s hands trembled, his pupils struck with an earthquake of 8.0 magnitude.


    So!


    It!


    Was!


    Her!


    He didn¡¯t recognize this face just now but he remembered the side profile very clearly¡ªthis was the cause of Sun Zinan¡¯s grief in the heavy rain and his family¡¯s disharmony!


    She had the nerve to not onlye to the main pce, but to even falsely call him ¡°older brother!¡±


    ¡°Senior, this is my name card.¡± Li Ning handed him her card with both hands and smiled shyly. ¡°Do you mind if I call you senior?¡±


    Tang Kai¡¯s face was about to turn green.


    He received the card, nced at it, and found out that Li Ning¡¯s job was an assistant researcher at a state-owned biological research institute. She was in the same industry as him and this made him even angrier.


    Did Sun Zinan have some special interest towards people who worked in the biology industry?


    Was he also very particr about people who did scientific research?


    When enemiese face to face, their eyes ze with hatred.


    Tang Kai was supposed to turn away with cold dignity, but his peacock heart took over and he thought, ¡®I want to see how you¡¯re better than me.¡¯ He thought it was worth taking a look and began an unusual conversation with this imaginary enemy.


    Li Ning rarely had the opportunity to speak with Tang Kai; this was supposed to be something to be happy about.


    But for some reason, she felt like Tang Kai¡¯s eyes were always full of scrutiny and criticism.


    He didn¡¯t seem like he was talking to a cute junior sister, but rather was like a mother-inw looking in displeasure at her daughter-inw.


    Tang Kai felt even more depressed than she did.


    In terms of educational background, he had graduated from a famous university, far better than Li Ning¡¯s; in terms of professional ability, he was the youngest associate professor at Tianhai University, but Li Ning had just entered her job and had not yet obtained research results; in terms of family background, his father was half a grade higher than Li Ning¡¯s father; in terms of beauty¡ªthis couldn¡¯t bepared, but Sun Zinan liked men. He should have the advantage of gender.


    So how was he not as good as Li Ning?


    This woman even took the chance to take advantage of it.


    Tang Kai was not very happy and got up to say, ¡°It¡¯s almost time to leave for the conference.¡±


    Li Ning was about to go with the flow and ask if they should go together when Tang Kai said, ¡°I need to go back and get some materials. Miss Li should head out first.¡±


    Li Ning said hurriedly, ¡°It¡¯s okay, I can wait for you.¡±


    Tang Kai waved his hand and said, ¡°No need, I have other ns.¡±


    His refusal was straightforward and indifferent, and Li Ning was startled.


    This time, without waiting for her to say anything, Tang Kai turned around and walked in the direction of the elevator.


    His calm facade was only maintained until the moment he turned around, and as soon as he entered the elevator, his expression fell.


    The more Professor Tang thought, the angrier he became. He was eager to pull Sun Zinan over now and ask him whether this was a one-sided or mutual love.


    He stared at the line of phone numbers with hatred; his fingers would fall on the screen again and again before rising again. This made him feel repeatedly depressed, and he finally gritted his teeth and made up his mind: if Sun Zinan did not take the initiative to contact him within today, he would¡ª


    But what could he do to Sun Zinan?


    Break up?


    Breaking up was impossible.


    Professor Tang¡¯s small inner me was put out by a scoop of cold water before it had even begun burning. He pursed his lips and thought if there were no other options, he could pretend he was pitiful and that he had called the wrong number.


    In a confrontation between two sides, one person had to take the first step to break the impasse.


    The forum started at nine in the morning. They had a break at noon and lunch would be served at the hotel¡¯s buffet.


    Tang Kai finished his report in the morning and was pulled by several former colleagues into a chat at noon. He received a dozen business cards and didn¡¯t even have the time to eat more than a few bites of his meal.


    He was afraid he wouldn¡¯t be able tost the afternoon, so he poured a cup of coffee at the end of lunch and found a corner seat to sit down and drink slowly. After drinking for a while, he became bored, and in order to rx his mind, he casually opened up a game of Fight the Landlord.


    The game began, and the yer whose turn was before him called thendlord, Tang Kai inadvertently looked at the opposing party¡¯s WeChat name and spat out a mouthful of coffee.


    Sun!


    Zi!


    Nan!


    He covered his mouth with a paper towel, expression ferocious. The hand holding his phone trembled slightly, as if he was so excited at seeing his idol he had be a ck fan.


    The Sun Zinan on the other side was also stunned silly and did not tap on ¡®steal thendlord.¡¯


    Tang Kai took a deep breath, thinking to himself, Sun Zinan ah Sun Zinan, I think day and night, tossing and turning, too worried to eat or sleep well. It¡¯s fine if you fucking don¡¯t send me WeChats, but secretly ying Fight the Landlord behind my back¡ªthere¡¯s nothing good about men!


    Since it was like this, what was the point in ying cards? No one should remain quiet.


    His anger rose from his heart and evil thoughts began forming. He tapped on Sun Zinan¡¯s profile and began frantically throwing rotten tomatoes at him.


    The yer after Tang Kai called thendlord, gearing themselves up for a big fight. However, after waiting for the other parties to y their cards to no avail, they looked up: Oh, there was infighting going on between the two peasants.


    Rotten tomatoes exploded on the profile of ¡®North¡¯ one after another, almost frying the screen; not only did ¡®DONKI¡° not y a card, he even deliberately pressed ¡®don¡¯t want¡¯ at the veryst moment. He was racing against time to throw rotten tomatoes at ¡®North.¡¯


    Thendlord was stunned from watching this. They even thought they had identally opened up PUBG.


    On the other side of the screen, Sun Zinan clutched his phone in horror, wanting to ce it further away from himself. Tang Kai¡¯s anger seemed to transcend the phone screen.


    In fact, until he opened up Fight the Landlord a second ago, he had been uneasily worrying that Xie Zhuo was not reliable. He was worried he had thought too much, worried that Tang Kai was just simply sending a status update and nothing else.


    But now all his uneasiness was gone in flying blood-red torrent. The fact that he was angry and throwing a tantrum showed that he still cared.


    Sun Zinan was not afraid of Tang Kai¡¯s anger, but he was terrified of engaging in a Cold War.


    No matter how long Tang Kai dragged it on, the game had a time limit. Thendlord won without fighting, and the results interface jumped out.


    Sun Zinan did not continue and directly closed the game before putting his phone into airne mode.


    He nced at the ticket in his hand, picked up his briefcase, and went to the VIP waiting lounge.


    At 1:30 PM, the ne to B City departed on time.


    6:30 PM, Blue Star Hotel.


    The schrs participating in the forum took a break and were ready to go to the banquet hall for a wee dinner held by the organizers.


    Tang Kai returned to his room to change his tie, then walked out of the elevator and was about to pass through the lobby when he suddenly heard someone behind his back calling him. ¡°Professor Tang!¡±


    He stopped and looked back, but did not see the man calling him. He turned his face, but then his gaze met the lofty eyes of a man standing at the counter.


    They were separated by a distance of four or five meters. The lower half of the man¡¯s face was blocked by a mask, but he could still see his smile and the raised eyebrows.


    Tang Kai, ¡°...¡±

 Chapter 26 - So Overbearing?

    <h4>Chapter 26 - So Overbearing?</h4>


    In his nearly thirty years of life, this was the first time Professor Tang realized what it felt like to be hit by a deer in the middle of the road...no, he must have opened up a crazy animal zoo in his heart.


    The surprise fell from the sky and struck him into a stunned silence. He only suddenly woke up when Sun Zinan walked in front of him and gave him a casual finger-gun. He grabbed at Sun Zinan¡¯s hand out of conditioned reflex.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Sun Zinan smiled and said in a hoarse voice, ¡°We¡¯re in public, your colleagues are watching.¡±


    ¡°You...¡± Even Tang Kai¡¯s ever-bright mind had finally met a day in which it couldn¡¯t run anymore. He asked in disbelief, ¡°Howe you¡¯re here?¡±


    ¡°My partner has run away from home, so I obviously have toe find him myself.¡±


    Sun Zinan¡¯s eyes bent into crescents as he smiled. He raised his hand and organized his shirt cor and tie. ¡°Do you still have other activities tonight? Hurry up and go.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°I...¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m staying in 1202,¡± Sun Zinan said. ¡°I won¡¯t be going anywhere tonight. You can knock on my door at any time.¡±


    Tang Kai¡¯s Adam¡¯s apple bobbed up and down. His gaze was burning hot. The overloaded CPU had finally returned to normal operation. He grabbed Sun Zinan¡¯s shoulder and said in a strong voice, ¡°You stand here, don¡¯t move. Wait a minute for me.¡±


    Not waiting for Sun Zinan to answer, he called to another professor passing by, walked over, and said a few words to him. After obtaining the other side¡¯s promise, he immediately rushed back to hold Sun Zinan¡¯s hand and couldn¡¯t help pulling him over to the elevator.


    ¡°Ai...be gentle.¡± Sun Zinan was dragged by him until he was staggering. ¡°This is forcefully grabbing a woman. Do you think I¡¯m still going to run?¡±


    Tang Kai pulled him stuffily into the elevator and pushed Sun Zinan against the elevator wall with a bang.


    He was already tall. Along with his posture pressing Sun Zinan against the wall, he seemed very condescending. This scenario gave an inexplicable feeling of softening legs.


    Sun Zinan¡¯s legs were too long and hit the railing under the mirror on the wall. It poked at him awkwardly and he frowned as he hissed in pain. Tang Kai immediately put a hand behind him, holding his waist as he asked, ¡°Are you hurt?¡±


    Sun Zinan couldn¡¯t help but smile. In order to give him some face, he raised his hands in surrender and said, ¡°It¡¯s nothing, you can continue.¡±


    Tang Kai merely looked down at him, his momentum from just nowpletely dissipated.


    The cold expression onlysted three seconds. He couldn¡¯t control his face anymore and sighed. ¡°I¡¯ll deal with you when we get back to the room.¡±


    The two of them remained like this without moving. Sun Zinan nced at the security camera but before he could speak, Tang Kai grasped his chin and made him face him again. ¡°Don¡¯t look anywhere else, you¡¯re only allowed to look at me.¡±


    Sun Zinan beganughing. ¡°So overbearing?¡±


    Tang Kai said, ¡°I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ll run away.¡±


    Sun Zinan retorted, ¡°Where can I even run to?¡±


    The elevator stopped on the twelfth floor. Tang Kai grabbed Sun Zinan¡¯s wrist and pushed him into the room.


    This time he wasn¡¯t willing to press Sun Zinan against the door again. He put both hands around his waist and said menacingly, ¡°Give me an honest ount. Who exactly are you chasing after toe all the way over?¡±


    It would¡¯ve been fine if he hadn¡¯t mentioned. Once it was brought out, Sun Zinan¡¯s mood became terrible.


    He bypassed Tang Kai, then reached out to press the air conditioning panel and raised the temperature by a few degrees. He said huffily, ¡°What do you think? If I didn¡¯te for you then would I havee for your ex-girlfriend?¡±


    He pushed away Tang Kai¡¯s hand, took off his trench coat, and was about to find a hanger to hang when he heard Tang Kai ask angrily behind him, ¡°Who? Say it again, whose ex-girlfriend?¡±


    ¡°Li Ning, haven¡¯t you seen her?¡± Sun Zinan said, ¡°Didn¡¯t shee too?¡±


    Tang Kai couldn¡¯t believe it. ¡°Isn¡¯t she your ex-girlfriend? When did she be my ex-girlfriend!¡±


    Sun Zinan tossed his clothes to the side. ¡°Are you crazy? I don¡¯t even know her. She¡¯s your fucking ssmate!¡±


    Tang Kai said angrily, ¡°If you don¡¯t know her then why did you drink coffee with her! And smile at her!¡±


    Sun Zinan really wanted to give him an earful to sober him up. ¡°It¡¯s your ex-girlfriend who came running all the way to my front door to find me! Do you understand! How the fuck does this have nothing to do with you, why would I pay attention to her?¡±


    Tang Kai was dumbfounded.


    He finally found the thread of truth from this mess, but it was like an inextricable mass of high-voltage wires, crackling with sparks, driving him from a haughty empress to the original troublemaker. Tang Kai was struck from head to toe; the feeling was no different than if he had been struck by lightning.


    Sun Zinan had just shouted at him and strained his fragile airways. He couldn¡¯t help but turn his head away and cough several times.


    The movement seemed to remind Tang Kai and he revived his spirits, instantly sprawling all over Sun Zinan and sadly dering, ¡°Emperor, you must listen to concubine, concubine has been wronged!¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    He didn¡¯t have a chance to resist before he was pushed by Tang Kai¡¯s force into the sofa. A heavy wail emitted from his waist.


    ¡°What are you talking about...¡± He coughed a few times, then gasped, ¡°How have you been wronged?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have an ex-girlfriend, I¡¯ve never had one.¡±


    Tang Kai lowered his head and kissed him, tracing the features of his face with little pecks before saying hoarsely, ¡°I only have you.¡±


    Not only did he feel guilty, but he also felt like he had suffered a few unclear grievances. It was as if he had clearly wanted to be good to a person, but had done something wrong; he wanted toy his heart out, but was afraid he wouldn¡¯t be appreciated.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorr...¡±


    Before the words were finished, Sun Zinan took the initiative to prop himself up and quickly pecked at his lips, blocking Tang Kai¡¯s apology.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough, don¡¯te near me.¡± He pushed Tang Kai¡¯s shoulder away and said, ¡°I have a cold, be careful of getting infected.¡±


    Tang Kai blinked, but refused to let him go. He pressed their foreheads together, his gaze almost watery as he asked, ¡°Are you not angry?¡±


    Sun Zinan raised his hand and patted his face, quirking his lips as he replied, ¡°I¡¯m a mature adult, do I have topete with a little vinegar?¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    Tang Kai reluctantly asked, ¡°Then why don¡¯t you eat my vinegar?¡±


    Sun Zinanughed dryly, thinking to himself, nonsense, if I wasn¡¯t jealous, I wouldn¡¯t have a cold right now.


    But he absolutely refused to admit that he was as childish as Tang Kai so he said casually, ¡°I trust you, isn¡¯t that enough?¡±


    Tang Kai suddenly felt like he had a lot of pressure but there was also a kind of indescribable iron will. He hemmed and hawed as he said, ¡°You¡¯re so sensible and considerate. It seems like I¡¯m too petty.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that what it is...move, you¡¯re about to press me to death.¡± Sun Zinan said, ¡°Your generosity is not big, but your stature is not small. You¡¯re also a childish demon.¡±


    Tang Kai got up and easily rescued Sun Zinan from the couch. ¡°Then did you have to chase this childish demon all the way to B City?¡±


    Sun Zinan huffed coldly and said, ¡°Only I can be blind to your faults, other people can¡¯t be blind.¡±


    He even said he didn¡¯t eat vinegar.


    Tang Kai couldn¡¯t resist, andughed out loud a few times but didn¡¯t overdo it. He recalled Sun Zinan¡¯s evaluation of him during their first date. Today, he had finally learned what ¡®your contradictions are very cute¡¯ meant.


    Sun Zinan still had a cold and had sat on the ne all afternoon. He hadn¡¯t said much but was already slightly tired. After this, although Professor Tang was not a newlywed, he acted more like a newlywed than an actual one would act like. He simply pushed off his dinner event and called for room service. Taking advantage of the fact that the other participants had gone out, he moved his luggage from the fifth floor to the twelfth floor and happily stayed in the room with Sun Zinan.


    Sun Zinan was a young master of a rich family who would not wrong himself. The hotel did not have a presidential suite so he had asked for the biggest business suite. There was only one big bed in the room. At the moment he was leaning on the bed looking at Tang Kai, and said with an amused tone, ¡°Will there be a problem if you run away from your dinner event like this?¡±


    Tang Kai replied benevolently, ¡°If I go, I¡¯ll definitely meet with Li Ning. Do you still have a sense of territory?¡±


    ¡°Loyalty is created through self-restraint, not whipping.¡± Sun Zinan smiled and gave him a nce. ¡°Will you just fly to your freedom if I¡¯m not watching you?¡±


    ¡°So I¡¯m not going.¡± Tang Kai flung out his finger and said, ¡°You see, my logic deserves full points.¡±


    He had swept away the depression from the past few days and his entire person was bright because of Sun Zinan¡¯s arrival. He was clearly very happy.


    Sun Zinan was engrossed in his own deep thoughts, thinking about how he had managed to like someone who was so pure and childish. It seemed like karma was real. Whatever sweetness he hadcked in his past life had been made up by Tang Kai.


    After the two of them had dinner, Sun Zinan took some anti-inmmatory cold medicine and was sent to bed early by Tang Kai. Tang Kai was about to turn the lights off for him, but Sun Zinan frowned and said, ¡°Keep the bedsidemp on, don¡¯t close the door.¡±


    He almost blurted out ¡®Why?¡¯ before swallowing it back in time. When Tang Kai thought of Sun Zinan¡¯s childhood nightmare, he understood his fear.


    The warm yellow light did not seem to warm his cold, furrowed brows. He had physically awakened from the nightmare a long time ago, but Sun Zinan¡¯s sense of security had been forever left behind in that night, in that room. As long as the world had darkness and shadows, he would be bound for life, unable to break free.


    Tang Kai stood at the door for a moment and said, ¡°If you don¡¯t think I¡¯m noisy, I¡¯ll bring myptop in to apany you.¡±


    Sun Zinan turned over, burying half his face into the soft pillow. ¡°No, the light is too dim. Sitting in bed and looking at the screen will hurt your eyes. Go outside to work.¡±


    Tang Kai went back to bed and squatted down in front of Sun Zinan.


    Sun Zinan opened his eyes. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be the only person outside, it¡¯s dark and cold.¡± Tang Kai said shamelessly, solemnly opening his eyes as he spouted out nonsense. ¡°I¡¯m scared of the dark.¡±


    Sun Zinan felt like Professor Tang had achieved a new level of tossing away his dignity in front of him. He didn¡¯t even leave himself thest bit of face.


    He numbly shrank back into his quilt and scolded, ¡°Don¡¯t make a scene, go edit your paper.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t.¡± Tang Kai grabbed the corner of his quilt and refused to let go, dragging it out by a few centimeters. Using a maic and coquettish baritone, he said, ¡°I want to sleep with you.¡±


    He paused, and then threw out a more lethal phrase. ¡°Okay~ Husband~¡±


    If Sun Zinan really didn¡¯t have any strength left at the moment, he would have immediately leaped out and spun him around in a whirlwind.


    ¡°Professor Tang.¡± He gently pinched the tip of Tang Kai¡¯s nose. ¡°Do you still want any face?¡±


    Tang Kai pulled his hand down and kissed it. He was half kneeling by the bed, his face beautiful, his posture straight. He was still neatly dressed in a formal shirt, like a knight with a sword guarding him in the middle of the night. His gentle smile was glittering with a hint of slyness, and it was impossible to take his gaze away.


    ¡°With you, I don¡¯t need anything else.¡±

 Chapter 27 - I Want to Hold You to Sleep Tonight Too

    <h4>Chapter 27 - I Want to Hold You to Sleep Tonight Too</h4>


    ¡°Darling, you still need face.¡± Sun Zinan hooked his chin gently and smile warmly as he said, ¡°After all, the thing I care about most is your face.¡±


    Tang Kai pressed a kiss on his brows, then patted the quilt and said, ¡°Wait for me.¡±


    He took out his things, changed his clothes, and washed up, rustling in and out of the room with small movements. He thought Sun Zinan would definitely be disturbed by the noise, but when Tang Kai lifted the quilt to climb into bed, he saw that he had already buried himself in his pillow, his breathing long, quietly asleep.


    Maybe it was the cold medicine or fatigue from a long-distance flight, but the most important point was that in order to rx, he had to feel safe and worry-free in order to fall asleep.


    Sun Zinan was difficult to deal with when awake, but he was a beautiful young man when sleeping. Tang Kai did not do anything to disturb him and merely leaned against the headboard, his eyes gentle like water and veiled by the soft light, silently staring at him for a moment.


    Love was really a wondrous thing; it could make people toss and turn, but also make them sleep at ease.


    At 11:30, Tang Kai turned the lights off and went to bed. The hotel wasn¡¯t as good as being home. There was only one quilt. When hey down next to Sun Zinan, he felt the other¡¯s temperature and felt a brief moment of distress. But just a few seconds after the room fell into darkness, Sun Zinan suddenly trembled as if he had been shocked awake.


    He seemed like he was about to choke. Tang Kai quickly reached across the quilt and tightly held him. ¡°It¡¯s nothing, don¡¯t be afraid.¡±


    As soon as the light went out, Sun Zinan woke up as a reflex, but Tang Kai¡¯s coaxing filled in the gaps at the right time. It was as if the empty step he had taken was caught by a soft cushion after he fell.


    His mind was only clear for a moment before he fell back into a deep drowsiness. They were both lying on their sides, leaving only a small gap between their shoulders under the quilt. Maybe it was because a draft hade in, but Sun Zinan seemed to feel cold and sleepily scooted over to Tang Kai¡¯s side.


    Professor Tang had now really be a Liu Xiahui propping up an oil pan.


    He was not ashamed of his desires; it was only a matter of time. But like every foolish human in love, he couldn¡¯t help but fall head over heels because his sweetheart was sleeping in his arms.


    He carefully opened his arms and gently pulled Sun Zinan into his embrace. The soft quilt was like a warm nest, surrounding the two of them. Tang Kai patiently closed his eyes.


    At about 1 A.M., he was woken up by a low, repressed cough.


    Sun Zinan had his back to him, his back trembling as he coughed incessantly. He was probably afraid of waking Tang Kai up, so he repressed the sound within his chest and it sounded particrly dull.


    But this kind of sudden cough in the middle of the night was usually difficult to stop. Sun Zinan dizzily estimated that he would wake Tang Kai up sooner orter. Just as he was about to get up and get out of bed, Tang Kai was woken up. He sat up behind him and reached out to turn on the bedsidemp, saying with a sleepy, hoarse voice, ¡°Don¡¯t move, I¡¯ll get you a ss of water.¡±


    After a while, he returned to bed with a ss of water and sat sideways on the edge of the bed. ¡°Drink some water,e over and let me check your forehead.¡±


    Sun Zinan obediently leaned forward. Tang Kai tested the temperature of his forehead with his hand and thenpared it with his own forehead. He embraced him and sighed. ¡°Darling, you have a fever. Let¡¯s go to the hospital, okay?¡±


    He was probably still sleepy. His voice was hoarse and gentle like he was coaxing a child.


    Sun Zinan drank half a ss of water and barely repressed the itch in his throat. He shook his head and said, ¡°Let¡¯s not go. I¡¯m fine, I¡¯ll be okay after sleeping.¡±


    Tang Kai frowned at him. ¡°Did you bring fever medicine?¡±


    ¡°Forgot it.¡±


    Sun Zinan did not feel like he had a fever at all. He was a little sleepy now, so he stroked the vertical lines between Tang Kai¡¯s brows and rested his forehead against his shoulder. ¡°Stop tossing about, go to sleep. You have to get up early tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°You lie down first.¡± Tang Kai helped him lie down. ¡°I¡¯ll get a towel for you.¡±


    ¡°En.¡±


    The sound of water came from the bathroom. A momentter, a cold towel was ced on his forehead and covered his eyes with humidity. ¡°Go sleep. Your cold will be better when you wake up.¡±


    The warm yellow light went out and the bedroom returned to silence.


    The next morning when Sun Zinan woke up, Tang Kai was no longer by his side. He raised his hand and touched his forehead. It was dry and slightly warm; his fever should have gone down.


    Since the second half ofst night, or this morning to be precise, he had slept peacefully and no longer coughed. Tang Kai even got up to change his towel but he didn¡¯t remember it.


    Everything that had happened in the darkness ofst night was blurred and warm like a dreamscape. It seemed that after their misunderstanding, their rtionship had naturally entered a new stage. They could open up their hearts to each other without any warning and expose all their fears and vulnerabilities to each other.


    So it was said that illness was the easiest time for cultivating feelings. Being cherished in the palms of someone¡¯s hand made it difficult to return to being alone.


    He was meditating on this when Tang Kai pushed the door open. It seemed that he had just gotten back from the gym. The first thing he did when he got back was to touch his forehead. ¡°Seems okay, you¡¯re not burning up anymore.¡±


    ¡°I disturbed your sleepst night, didn¡¯t I?¡±


    Sun Zinan felt a little distressed when he saw him sigh in relief. Tang Kai smiled and teased his chin before turning to the bathroom. He said casually, ¡°You didn¡¯t disturb me, I slept very well. I want to hold you to sleep tonight too.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡± s, falling in love really made people fools.


    After washing up, the two of them went downstairs for breakfast.


    Most of the schrs who came to eat at the hotel buffet were schrs who participated in the forum the day before. Many of them had been deeply impressed by this young talent. Today he appeared with another eye-catching youth. An elderly professor even greeted them and asked if this was his brother.


    Although Sun Zinan was young, his aura was not like that of a student¡¯s. Otherwise he would definitely be mistaken as Tang Kai¡¯s PhD student. Along the way, Professor Tang drew the gazes of countless curious eyes. He acted in a lowkey manner without showing off as he introduced, ¡°This my partner...yes, came specifically to see me.¡±


    Those who didn¡¯t know would think he was attending a three month long closed-off summer camp.


    The square tables at the hotel buffet could seat four people. The two of them found an empty table. Tang Kai pointed to the flower bed outside the window and said, ¡°The status update I postedst time was shot here.¡±


    Sun Zinan was a little amused. ¡°Did you deliberately take the picture for me?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Tang Kai admitted. ¡°You were ignoring me, so I wanted you to know where I was.¡±


    ¡°Be reasonable, who ignored who first, en?¡±


    Sun Zinan forked a piece of fresh snow pear and lowered his voice as he said, ¡°Can¡¯t even recognize his own ex-girlfriend and even nts the me on me.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s not my ex-girlfriend!¡± Tang Kai emphasized repeatedly. ¡°She was definitely lying to you. Only someone as dumb as you would actually believe it.¡±


    For the average person, the phrase ¡®I really don¡¯t know her¡¯ was very unconvincing. No matter how they spun it, it would sound like an attempt to hide.


    But Tang Kai¡¯s reaction had been too great; he not only did not recognize his ex-girlfriend, but also had seen her as his own rival. Seeing Li Ning once had made him angry from head to toe. Forget about the revival of an old love, this had almost be a new hatred.


    Sun Zinan could not understand how his brain circuits worked and could only bow down. Tang Kai cheerfully egged on, ¡°Right, if you have nothing else to do today, will you participate in the forum with me?¡±


    Sun Zinan smiled. ¡°Are you a little friend in kindergarten? Do you still need your parents to apany you in ss?¡±


    Tang Kai said, ¡°You work with me during the day, I sleep with you at night. This is very reasonable, right?¡±


    He said this extremely calmly, at a normal speaking volume. It scared Sun Zinan so much he almost stood up and covered his mouth. ¡°Dear ancestors, don¡¯t shout! You think it¡¯s glorious to sleep with me at night? How shameless!¡±


    Tang Kai tapped on the table. ¡°Are youing?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°Cominginging...¡±


    The forum was semi-public. Schrs participating in the conference usually brought a few of their own students, so it was very easy for Tang Kai to bring people in. He was acquainted with the organizers and greeted them. He got Sun Zinan a staff name card and personally led him into the forum, arranging them a center seat in the back rows. It was a very good position.


    Professor Tang was the type of person who usually treated people politely and was not difficult to approach. However, his temperament had always been lofty and cold, an aura that exuded the feeling of an immortal who did not interact with humans. It was rare for him to be so enthusiastic, as if he were a keeper for a nationally-protected panda. For a time, even the event volunteers stopped talking and stole nces towards his side.


    Li Ning cameter in the morning. As soon as she entered through the door, she felt like the atmosphere was unusual. She searched around the event and her gaze fell on Tang Kai¡¯s tall and straight back.


    Instead of sitting at the guest panel¡¯s table on the stage, he sat with his back to the door in the third back row of chairs, his head lowered as he said something to the man next to him. His figure was very good. His sitting posture inexplicably made him seem more youthful, like a boy who refused to sit properly in the university library. Lively but not frivolous, a kind of charm that made people unable to resist smiling.


    Li Ning¡¯s eyes shed, a smile appearing within her gaze. His position was right behind her chair so she took a few steps over to greet him.


    ¡°Professor Tang, morning¡ª¡±


    Tang Kai turned his head at the sound. Sun Zinan, who had been covered by his back, appeared next to him.


    Li Ning, ¡°...¡±


    The handsome man quirked his lips up into a slight smile and said softly, ¡°What a coincidence. We meet again. Morning, Miss Li.¡±


    Li Ning couldn¡¯t stand the sight of his smile and quickly retreated a few steps.


    Their current posture was really very indecent. Sun Zinan was sitting, Tang Kai standing. The space was narrow. Professor Tang had one leg crossed over Sun Zinan¡¯s body and ced on the back of his chair. His other long, straight leg had nowhere else to stand so he had inserted it in between Sun Zinan¡¯s legs. The two of them were so close they could hear each other breathing. Tang Kai was even ying with Sun Zinan¡¯s left hand, ten fingers entangled together. No matter how one looked at it, it seemed like he was pressing advances on someone.


    If Sun Zinan didn¡¯t look so calm, Li Ning almost thought she had walked into some shady molestation scenario.


    She trembled in fear and pulled up an awkward smile. ¡°Yes, what a coincidence.¡±


    Tang Kai raised his eyebrows and said as if he was being unintentional, ¡°This really is a coincidence. Miss Li also knows my boyfriend, why didn¡¯t you mention that yesterday?¡±


    ¡°I...¡± Li Ning struggled to maintain her fairy image and euphemistically said, ¡°We¡¯re not that familiar with each other, we¡¯ve only met before...¡°


    ¡°Oh, perfect.¡± Tang Kai nodded and straightened up, as if to unintentionally protect Sun Zinan behind him. ¡°He flew all the way to B City to see me and he isn¡¯t familiar with this ce. I have to go on stage in a bit. I¡¯ll have to ask Miss Li to take care of him.¡±


    Sun Zinan secretly reached out and pinched Tang Kai¡¯s waist to warn him to stop randomly pulling at rtions¡ªwho the fuck was he trying to annoy?


    Li Ning¡¯s expression was like she had just swallowed a fly, but she wanted to leave herself some face in front of Tang Kai and therefore forced a smile. ¡°Okay...I will.¡±


    Tang Kai¡¯s expression remained the same, but his eyes were slightly colder than before and his tone seemed to hold a different meaning. ¡°I¡¯ve troubled you. After all, our family¡¯s Little Nan is soft-hearted and kind. He believes whatever others tell him and is easily fooled.¡±


    Professor Tang rarely spoke out, but once he did it was shocking. Both Sun Zinan and Li Ning looked like they had been struck by lightning, uniformly showing indescribable expressions.


    But Sun Zinan¡¯s face was full of ¡®where the fuck is this sand sculpture¡® while Li Ning¡¯s face was full of ¡®who the fuck is soft-hearted and kind.¡¯

 Chapter 28 - Eating Hot Pot

    <h4>Chapter 28 - Eating Hot Pot</h4>


    When the forum started, Li Ning sat in front of Sun Zinan. This was the real experience of ¡®sitting on needles.¡¯ She did not dare move in fear that any little movement would make Sun Zinan turn into a psychopath and strangle her on the spot.


    She wholeheartedly put in the effort to protect Sun Zinan, but all of Sun Zinan¡¯s attention was focused on Tang Kai. He had not seen such a Professor Tang in a long time. He was a bit like when they first met; his idol-like, lofty image making him difficult to approach. Within the row of experts and schrs on the podium, Tang Kai¡¯s beauty was the most evident; whether it was his eyes or his side profile, his handsome, eye-catching visage had no dead angles. From time to time he would casually cast his gaze across the audience, showing a hint of a cold-hearted sharpness.


    Every time he looked up, Sun Zinan could hear the several volunteers standing by the wall covering their mouths and whispering to each other.


    Among all the people present, probably only Sun Zinan could see through such a strict face and think of his unguarded, peaceful sleeping face, his smug smile when he was being coquettish, and his eyebrows when he looked at him temptingly.


    While he thought of this, Tang Kai suddenly looked in his direction, and their gazes met. Although they were separated by the crowd, Sun Zinan still had the illusion that his heart had been hit.


    He could not help but quirk the corner of his lips, then saw Tang Kai quickly turn his head to throw a wink at him.


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    A sense of shame from sneaking about like a thief in public arose in his heart but he couldn¡¯t suppress the curve of his lips. He wanted tough and felt his heart going soft at the same time. Tang Kai¡¯s shining face and actions were disyed towards the world, but he left his most authentic self for Sun Zinan. This wordless intimacy was sweeter to the heart than swearing loyalty to a person.


    Happiness for some inevitably meant sorrow for others. Li Ning, who had witnessed everything, was about to cry from being bullied by this sight.


    Although Sun Zinan¡¯spany worked in the biotechnology sector, this forum was rtively academic in nature and focused on professional topics. It was still a little too obscure for his non-professional origins. He barely survived the first half by looking at Tang Kai¡¯s face, but was too sleepy during the second half. It wasn¡¯t good to exit early so he sneakily took out his phone and opened up Fight the Landlord.


    Sun Zinan only put his phone away a few minutes before the end of the forum. He sat well and pretended he had been listening well all morning, following the other audience members into an enthusiastic apuse.


    Tang Kai and the participating schrs finished their presentation and he came down from the stage, declining the others¡¯ invitation for lunch. He went over to Sun Zinan and confidently ced his arm around his shoulders. ¡°You were secretly ying on your phone, I¡¯ve caught you.¡±


    Sun Zinan was pushed along by him and snorted at his words. ¡°So, is Teacher Tang going to punish me?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m a reasonable person.¡± Tang Kai lowered his head and teased him. ¡°I have to find the reason first. Was the lecture too boring, or was the teacher not attractive enough?¡±


    Sun Zinan remembered his wink and suppressed his smile as he said, ¡°The teacher was very handsome, but it was too difficult to understand what you guys were talking about.¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter, when we go back to the room, the teacher can give you a one-on-one make-up ss,¡± Tang Kai said.


    No matter how Sun Zinan heard it, it didn¡¯t seem quite right. ¡°Make-up what?¡±


    Tang Kai lowered his head slightly and said in a very low voice against his ear, ¡°Why don¡¯t we start from the anatomy of the human body? If you can¡¯t learn properly this time, the teacher will have to use corporal punishment.¡±


    To outsiders, the two were doing nothing except leaning closer to each other. It was too noisy in the lobby; if one didn¡¯t lean closer one wouldn¡¯t be able to hear what the other person was saying.


    Who would have thought that although Professor Tang looked like an upright, good young man, he was actually relying on the fact that Sun Zinan could not beat him to make lewd utterances in public?


    Sun Zinan reached across his shirt and suit to pinch his waist, gritting his teeth as he said, ¡°I think you¡¯re tired of living.¡±


    He looked menacing, but Tang Kai did not feel any pain. It was like a cat pawing at him with his ws sheathed.


    He knew that Sun Zinan wouldn¡¯t bear hitting him heavily, so hisugh became more and more sincere. He was simply happy to the point of blooming flowers. ¡°There¡¯s nothing to do in the afternoon, we can go out and y. Do you have anywhere you want to go?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°Are you very familiar with B City?¡±


    ¡±This is my hometown. I went to school here from elementary to high school.¡± Tang Kai said, ¡°Although it¡¯s changed a lot over the years, I still know it generally.¡±


    Sun Zinan¡¯s phone rang. He didn¡¯t shy away from Tang Kai and directly opened to see that someone sent him a notice on WeChat toe directly.


    He put his phone back in his pocket and said to Tang Kai, ¡°Let¡¯s go, I¡¯ll take you out for lunch.¡±


    ¡°Do you have an appointment?¡± Tang Kai raised the file in his hand and said, ¡°Then give me a second, I¡¯ll go back and put my things away first.¡±


    Sun Zinan patted his waist gently. ¡°Go ahead. There are two elder rtives I¡¯m bringing you to meet.¡±


    Tang Kai was a little puzzled as he walked off.


    In Sun Zinan¡¯s family situation, he had no rtives on his mother¡¯s side. His rtion with his other rtives did not seem very good. Elder rtives who were willing to meet his boyfriend definitely had a better-than-average rtionship with him...who could it be?


    The two of them went out to call a taxi. Sun Zinan gave the taxi driver the name of a hot pot restaurant. Tang Kai heard the address and realized it was in the district¡¯srgest business district. He couldn¡¯t help but ask curiously, ¡°What hot pot restaurant is this? Is it famous?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s my...uncle¡¯s restaurant.¡± Sun Zinan paused over the form of address. ¡°The main thing is that the restaurant is across the street from Taihe Group. It¡¯s easier for my other uncle toe over.¡±


    Tang Kai remembered that Sun Zinan¡¯s family was the side branch of B City¡¯s Taihe Sun family. If they were rtives from this side of the family, then it made sense.


    ¡°But I heard rumors that your grandfather cut ties with this side and ran away to S City to start over from scratch.¡± Tang Kai asked, ¡°Is your family now back together with this side?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Sun Zinan replied, ¡°When I was studying abroad, I coincidentally met these two uncles. When I asked their names I realized they were my rtives. The two of them have been taking good care of me and have been in touch all these years.¡±


    Tang Kai clutched his hand heavily and said in horror, ¡°You didn¡¯t tell me earlier we were meeting your parents!¡±


    ¡±Come on, stop being so dramatic.¡± Sun Zinan said, ¡°You have already met my father, what are you still fussing about? Can you pull yourself together, Professor Tang?¡±


    The taxi driver startedughing.


    Tang Kai thought about it and admitted he was right but still said reluctantly, ¡°When are you going to meet my parents?¡±


    ¡°Go ahead and arrange it.¡± Sun Zinan promised very readily. ¡°I¡¯ll go greet mother and father-inw before the New Year.¡±


    Tang Kai was very content but felt like something was wrong. He thought about it for a long time, only to realize that Sun Zinan¡¯s tone was like he was ordering an assistant around. He thus gave him a sidelong nce. ¡°You seem very confident ah, not afraid my family will make it hard for you?¡±


    Sun Zinan said expressionlessly, ¡°I¡¯m afraid, ah, I¡¯m afraid to death. There are so many girls who like you, spanning from S City all the way to B City. In case...¡±


    He didn¡¯t finish before Tang Kai covered his mouth. ¡°No in case. Although a lot of people like me, I only like you. Don¡¯t worry, my dad will never try to break us up. You won¡¯t have to back down.¡±


    Sun Zinanughed and secretly kissed his palm.


    They were going to the hot pot restaurant called ¡®Northwest Pass Hot Pot.¡¯ The name was rather rough, giving the feel of the grasnds surrounding the Gobi Desert. But the business was very good; the two of them arrived at the store after 1 P.M. but the store was still full of customers and there were about twenty customers lined up outside.


    Sun Zinan was familiar with the road and let the waiter take them to a reserved private room. The sound of the door being pushed open alerted the guests in the room. They entered through the door and met gazes with two men.


    Tang Kai saw the people in the room and almost blurted out a ¡®Fuck.¡¯


    The man sitting on the opposite side clearly recognized him, and surprise shed through his eyes.


    ¡°Third Uncle, Uncle Fu.¡± Sun Zinan greeted them one by one and introduced Tang Kai to them. ¡°This is Tang Kai. I mentioned him earlier. My boyfriend.¡± He then turned to Tang Kai. ¡°This is my Third Uncle, this is my Third Uncle¡¯s lover. He doesn¡¯t let me call him Third Aunt, so call him Uncle Fu with me.¡±


    Tang Kai faced the scrutiny of four eyes and stiffly stood straight, smiling as he said, ¡°Hello Third Uncle, hello Uncle Fu.¡±


    That ¡®Uncle Fu¡¯ gave him a grin full of unknown meaning before looking away from Tang Kai and saying, ¡°Don¡¯t just stand there, let¡¯s sit down and talk.¡±


    Tang Kai was now regretting until his intestines were bruised. Why did he spend the entire way saying nonsense instead of asking Sun Zinan what his rtives¡¯ names were?


    He was done for now. He had a hunch he was about to perform a show¡ªhe was going to get rolled over by a car in real-time.


    The two elder rtives were both almost fifty. The one Sun Zinan called ¡®Third Uncle¡¯ was the vice chairman of Taihe Group, Sun Luo. He was very well dressed, with sses. Although he looked a little harsh, he treated people gently and elegantly. The ¡®Third Aunt¡¯ surnamed Fu¡¯s full name was Fu Tingxin. He was the owner of a hot pot restaurant chain. ording to Sun Zinan, he was a veteran who had been injured during a mission. He retired and started a business with a few friends.


    Although Fu Tingxin wasn¡¯t young anymore, he was still gracefully handsome and chic. The years seemed to age well on this person, but his temper had also gotten much better.


    Once when Sun Zinan was studying abroad, he was out rxing when he identally picked up Fu Tingxin¡¯s wallet at the subway station. At that time an old injury of Fu Tingxin had rpsed. Sun Luo had put his work down to take him abroad to recuperate. The two of them were living in a small vi on the shore of ake.


    After Sun Zinan returned the wallet to its original owner through the local police station, in order to thank him, Fu Tingxin invited him to his house for a meal. The result was that he found out they were family after exchanging names with Sun Luo. So in the few years Fu Tingxin recuperated abroad, he often invited Sun Zinan for dinner. Sun Luo idled about with nothing to do and even registered apany for Sun Zinan to practice with. If it wasn¡¯t for the fact that they knew Sun Ying would never agree, the two of them had almost wanted to adopt Sun Zinan into their family.


    Later, they returned home. Sun Zinan flew to B City almost every year to visit the two of them. This friendship had continued to this day.


    Tang Kai could tell from listening to the two sides talk and their behavior that Sun Zinan was closer to the two of them than his own father. The Sun Luo couple also treated him like their actual son.


    After three rounds of wine, Fu Tingxin took advantage of Sun Luo and Sun Zinan¡¯s conversation to touch cups with Tang Kai. He smiled and said, ¡°I haven¡¯t seen you for many years, Little Tang has grown up. Taking my nephew away without a word, en?¡±


    Tang Kai hurriedly lowered his cup. ¡°I don¡¯t dare, really don¡¯t dare. We¡¯re happy together. I¡¯m definitely not trying to steal him away.¡±


    ¡°Lies.¡± Fu Tingxin lowered his voice. ¡°He thinks you¡¯re a poor professor. You still lie to me so tantly!¡±


    ¡°Uncle, you are going to kill me.¡± Tang Kai also whispered in reply, ¡°¡±I really am just a professor!¡±


    <b>t/n: </b>fun fact!! fu tingxin and sun luo are a side cp in one of the author¡¯s other novels, golden stage. there¡¯s an entire au extra about them (be wary of spoilers) you can read here. so theoretically, fight thendlord, fall in love is a novel that¡¯s just an au of golden stage alternatively, if you haven¡¯t read golden stage, it¡¯s time to read it because it¡¯s one of my favorite books!

 Chapter 29 - The Hot Pot Restaurant Doesnt Have a Successor

    <h4>Chapter 29 - The Hot Pot Restaurant Doesn¡¯t Have a Sessor</h4>


    Fu Tingxin pointed at him unceremoniously. ¡°Still pretending?¡±


    He did not control the volume of his voice. The movement was a little exaggerated and Sun Zinan immediately looked back at them. ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing,¡± Fu Tingxin said immediately. ¡°I¡¯m talking to your partner, it¡¯s fine.¡±


    Sun Zinan was doubtful. ¡°Third Aunt, don¡¯t bully people.¡±


    Fu Tingxin tutted. ¡°You¡¯re not even married. Are your elbows turned inside out? If I really wanted to bully him I wouldn¡¯t let you hear...I would¡¯ve brought him to the bathroom already.¡±


    Tang Kai couldn¡¯t hold back and almostughed out loud. He saw Fu Tingxin wink at him and quickly said, ¡°Fu...ke, Uncle Fu and I are getting along well.¡±


    When Sun Zinan finally turned back, Fu Tingxin repressed his voice and said, ¡°Look, Little Nan is so concerned about you but you still hide from him. Do you have a conscience?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t hide it from him, I only think there isn¡¯t any need to disy it. He¡¯ll know when he meets my parents.¡± Tang Kai sighed. ¡°My father, my grandfather, and my uncle and aunt¡¯s careers are a result of their own hard work. It has nothing to do with me. I¡¯m a teacher who does research and I don¡¯t walk the same path as them.¡±


    He nced at Fu Tingxin and said quietly, ¡°Besides, aren¡¯t you the same? You can be with Third Uncle, why give me a double standard?¡±


    Fu Tingxin raised his hand threateningly. ¡°Can you evenpare with me! I grew up with Sun Luo and know him extremely well. You¡¯ve only known Little Nan a few days!¡±


    ¡°He said he wasn¡¯t going to bully him.¡± On the other side, Sun Zinan quietlyined to Sun Luo, ¡°Can¡¯t you see that his hands are raised so high. Tang Kai¡¯s body is so small, my Uncle Fu will p him flying.¡±


    Sun Luo stared at him for a long time and did not understand what kind of filter he was wearing. Tang Kai, with his broad shoulders and hidden solidness under his seemingly slender body, was actually ¡®small¡¯ in his eyes?


    ¡°He won¡¯t, rest assured. I think he¡¯s afraid Tang Kai won¡¯t be good to you, so he has to educate him first.¡± Sun Luo did not spend that much effort coaxing him and changed the topic. ¡°Right, how¡¯s the situation on your side? How¡¯s your third brother?¡±


    ¡°Still on a seesaw.¡± Sun Zinan said, ¡± I found another one to help raise the price. When I go back and stretch him out a bit, I¡¯ll let go.¡±


    ¡°En.¡± Sun Luo nodded and said, ¡°Time it well. Also pay attention to your safety. Be careful of the mad dog jumping over a wall to bite you.¡±


    Sun Zinan said, ¡°I understand. You can rest assured.¡±


    ¡±Tell us if anything difficult happens.¡± Like many stupid fathers in the world, Sun Luo couldn¡¯t avoid skimming over the important things. When he had finished talking about business, he immediately asked, ¡°Are youcking money? If you don¡¯t have enough Third Uncle will give you your New Year¡¯s money now.¡±


    Sun Zinan beganughing. ¡°How could I, save it to give to me during the New Year.¡±


    ¡±This time you must have done something really big. Your father definitely won¡¯t bear it.¡± Sun Luo was still uneasy and sighed. ¡°I think your smallpany will be affected. Try to find yourself a good way out.¡±


    Sun Zinan turned his cup around and took a sip of tea, not sure where to begin. ¡°I&#k2026;¡±


    Sun Luo raised his hand to stop his words. ¡°Third Uncle is not forcing you to make a choice now. I¡¯m just reminding you. What choice you make is something you have to experience yourself in order to not regret it in the future.¡±


    Sun Zinan nodded gratefully.


    ¡°Third Uncle only has the same thing to say as always. Whatever you want to do, if you can¡¯t clean it up, we¡¯ll do it for you.¡± Sun Luo touched their cups together and chuckled, ¡°I¡¯m not joking with you. Your Uncle Fu¡¯s hot pot restaurant is so popr we¡¯re looking for a sessor.¡±


    ¡°Then I might take some bigger strides.¡± Sun Zinan epted his good intentions and downed his cup of tea in one gulp. He said sincerely, ¡°Thank you Third Uncle.¡±


    Sun Luo waved his hand. ¡°We¡¯re all family. Thanking me is too much.¡±


    The two chatted with a harmonious atmosphere. On the other side, Fu Tingxin and Tang Kai finally reached a short-lived peace.


    Fu Tingxin patted him on the shoulder so hard he almost pressed Tang Kai under the table. ¡°Then it¡¯s a deal. You go back and confess to Little Nan. No matter what, it¡¯s wrong to keep it from him.¡±


    ¡°En,¡± Tang Kai said, ¡°But I will tell him myself. Don¡¯t rush to expose me.¡±


    Fu Tingxin sneered. ¡°Look at what you¡¯re saying. What do you take your uncle for? Little Nan likes you, can I still tear the two of you apart?¡±


    Tang Kai looked at him with suspicion.


    ¡°Wu, you son of a bitch.¡± Fu Tingxin quickly nced at Sun Zinan. When he saw that he hadn¡¯t noticed, he whispered, ¡°He¡¯s been afraid that the Sun family will drag you down, which has been the current dilemma between the two of you. You should at least reassure him.¡±


    Tang Kai could understand his intentions and adopted the correct attitude this time as he obediently said, ¡°I know. Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t let him be wronged again.¡±


    ¡°Live well together.¡±


    Fu Tingxin raised a ss and motioned to drink together. Tang Kai smiled with his eyes, clinked their sses together, and raised his head to drink the leftover beer in his ss.


    They went back to the hotel in the afternoon. The two of them were covered in the smell of hot pot, so the first thing they did after going back to the room was to take a shower and change their clothes. When Sun Zinan finished drying his hair and came out of the bathroom, he saw Tang Kai, who had washed first, sitting by the bed with aptop, iPad, and TV remote control in front of him.


    Sun Zinan asked, ¡°What¡¯s going on, are you too scared of making choices and don¡¯t know which one to use?¡±


    ¡°Nan Nan.¡± Tang Kai reached out to him. ¡°Come here.¡±


    Sun Zinan¡¯s scalp went numb at this endearing address. He quickly said, ¡°Don¡¯t be cheesy, isn¡¯t that nauseating?¡±


    ¡°But Third Uncle and Uncle Fu call you Little Nan. I need to have my own nickname for you.¡± Tang Kai had drunk some alcohol during lunch and his head was now spinning around. ¡°If you don¡¯t let me call you Nan Nan, then should I call you Baby? Dear? Sweetheart Fruit?¡±


    Sun Zinan smiled and sat down directly. ¡°I think it¡¯s good if you just call me husband.¡±


    Tang Kai pretended he didn¡¯t hear clearly. ¡°Ah? What?¡±


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t understand him for a moment. ¡°Husband.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°Ai, I¡¯m here.¡±


    ¡°...¡± Sun Zinan pped his arm. ¡°Get out!¡±


    ¡°Nan Nan, husband...¡± Tang Kai beckoned him over, hugging him as Sun Zinan sat on hisp, his chin resting on his shoulder. ¡°I have something to tell you.¡±


    His breath made the bare skin under the bathrobe neckline itchy and Sun Zinan shrunk back. ¡°Say it. Does it have to do with what my Uncle Fu was talking about with you today?¡±


    ¡±You¡¯re so smart.¡± Tang Kai tightened his arm around his waist as he struggled with himself for a moment, hesitating a little. ¡°Sorry. In fact, Uncle Fu and I have known each other...since I was a child.¡±


    ¡°En?¡± Sun Zinan could not quite understand this reasoning. ¡°What are you sorry for?¡±


    ¡±My grandfather used to live in the same neighborhood as Uncle Fu.¡± Tang Kai rarely mentioned his family history to people and was even a little shy about it. He was always others who found out would brush away his own aplishments, so his words were very euphemistic. ¡°We lived in B City at the foot of Longshan area.¡±


    Fu Tingxin was born into a military family and he himself was a retired Special Forces.


    Even if Sun Zinan was not a local, he knew that the Longshan area in B City was the residence neighborhood for members of the national military and political dignitaries.


    He finally found the central idea within the curved road of Tang Kai¡¯s logic and understood what he was talking about. He let out a long ¡°Oh¡± before continuing, ¡°So all in all, to put it bluntly, your family is like Uncle Fu¡¯s family. You¡¯re all high-profile military families, right?¡±


    Tang Kai seemed quite insecure. ¡°En.¡±


    Sun Zinan could feel Tang Kai¡¯s rapid heartbeat against his chest.


    It did surprise him a little at first, but after being surprised, there was no other feeling. Having heard of Tang Kai¡¯s parents¡¯ positions before, Sun Zinan had already almost spected about his family¡¯s situation. The truth was only a little higher than his expectations and within eptable limits. He just didn¡¯t understand why Tang Kai was so nervous, as if he was worried Sun Zinan would turn on him.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you mention it before?¡± Sun Zinan turned his body around and yed with Tang Kai¡¯s earlobes. ¡°Confessing because you were afraid you¡¯d be exposed after seeing Uncle Fu, en?¡±


    He didn¡¯t look angry. Tang Kai became a little bolder and titled his head to peck at the inside of his wrist. ¡°I didn¡¯t hide it from you deliberately. I just...don¡¯t talk about it out of habit.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°My family didn¡¯t really help me very much during childhood, but when I went to school, I got good grades, honors, and schrships. Because of that, some people said I got them because the school and teachers were trying to suck up to my family.¡± Tang Kai sighed softly. ¡°I obviously didn¡¯t do anything wrong, but was forced to take the me. This made me really unhappy. Afterwards, I went far away from home for high school, then college, then abroad, so people would stop saying I was using my connections.¡±


    Sun Zinan touched his face in pity, softlyforting, ¡°You were very aplished to begin with.¡±


    ¡°Before when I was younger, I wanted to get rid of my connections to prove to everyone that I could live well without my family.¡± Tang Kai hugged him affectionately, his movements tender. ¡°But when I got older I realized I was justpeting against myself. What others think doesn¡¯t matter. As long as you know what you want to pursue, just go for it.¡±


    ¡°But it was my fault that I didn¡¯t tell you about it earlier,¡° Tang Kai said earnestly. ¡°I was wrong.¡±


    ¡°What kind of big thing is this to make you apologize so solemnly?¡± Sun Zinanpletely did not take this to heart and said, ¡°Don¡¯t listen to Uncle Fu, he¡¯s just trying to scare you. It¡¯s not like I hate officers. Darling, don¡¯t be afraid.¡±


    Sun Zinan suddenly remembered how Li Ning had mentioned her father worked in the education departmentst time. He said to Tang Kai jokingly, ¡°Look at what you¡¯ve done to that girl. She thought you were a useless pretty boy who needed saving. Who knows how she¡¯s cursing me right now.¡±


    ¡°She was too self-indulgent and I don¡¯t even remember her face.¡± Tang Kai frowned. ¡°Besides, what did she see in me? Is it not obvious that I¡¯m bent?¡±


    Sun Zinan patted his lips. ¡°She saw this face. After all, everyone pays attention to visuals.¡±


    As he spoke, he identally kicked the remote control on the bed. Sun Zinan looked down and asked in confusion, ¡°Why did you put these things out?¡±


    ¡°This, ah...¡± Tang Kai turned his face away in embarrassment. ¡°I just thought, if you were angry, I could kneel with your favorite out of these three.¡±


    Sun Zinan had never met such a strong yer before in his life, and froze for a second.


    ¡°Turn your face around! Now you know what shame is!¡± He sat on Tang Kai¡¯sp, gabbing his chin, not sure whether to cry orugh as he scolded, ¡°Even if I was really angry how could I let you kneel? Your head is full of some feudal society fantasy, or maybe you...wu!¡±


    Before he could even finish, he was swallowed into a deep, breathless kiss.


    For a long time after their kiss, Tang Kai continuednding light pecks at the corner of his lips. He said softly, ¡°Darling, I don¡¯t have any misunderstandings towards you¡ª¡±


    ¡°Just improper thoughts.¡±

 Chapter 30 - A Chapter Without MuChapter Drama

    <h4>Chapter 30 - A Chapter Without MuChapter Drama</h4>


    When love was strong, it was like dripping water into oil. A knife had cut through the wire; even every breath was filled with a hot desire. But taking into ount the state of Sun Zinan¡¯s body, the two did not dare mess around too much, merely greeting each other in a friendly manner.


    Even so, Professor Tang spent two hours circling around Sun Zinan like a lost soul, learning what it meant to have knowledge of the marrow and entangling it to the bone.


    The next day, Sun Zinan changed to the same flight and returned to S City with Tang Kai.


    He had run away for three days for no reason, and the burden of thepany had fallen on Wang Geng. Vice president Wang had been driven crazy. He vented his anger on Yu Liang, who came to help him every day. The poor child had been driven to the point of teary eyes. When Sun Zinan returned to work, Yu Liang¡¯s eyes looked like the eyes of a refugee who had been finally rescued by the People¡¯s Liberation Army. He rushed up to hold his thigh and cry, ¡°Dad, he bullied me.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s been a hard few days for you, Little Yu.¡± Sun Zinan said, ¡°Go, call Wang Geng to my office.¡±


    Another notice was issued and half an hourter, the heads of all the departments except thebor department met in the conference room. A momentter Wang Geng knocked on the door and came in. ¡°Director Sun.¡±


    ¡°Sit wherever.¡± Sun Zinan asked, ¡°How¡¯s the talk going with Jin Ke Real Estate?¡±


    ¡±The other family is still raising the price and we are forced into a tight corner,¡° Wang Geng replied anxiously. ¡°This is not the way to go. Whether you want this ce or not, you have to make a decision as soon as possible.¡±


    Sun Zinan opened the locked drawer, took out a report from it, and pushed it to him. ¡°Look at this.¡±


    Wang Geng so far could not understand how he could be so calm. He flipped through the report. As he quickly browsed it with a nce, his face gradually changed.


    ¡°This...¡± He looked up at Sun Zinan. It was difficult to hide his look of surprise.


    But the question was so sensitive he could not find the right wording for a while.


    ¡°In July, Liu Cheng had put forward his views on the construction of an ecological sanatorium park at the strategic meeting. Later, when the project idea passed, Jin Ke Real Estate began intervening and directly contacting us.¡± Sun Zinan¡¯s voice was heavy. ¡°I don¡¯t believe you didn¡¯t send people to check Liu Cheng¡¯s actions back then.¡±


    ¡°I did,¡± Wang Geng took in a breath and admitted, ¡°Because that day after the meeting, I happened to hear him make a call downstairs. That made me pay a little more attention to what he was doing.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°Back in June he brought his daughter to thepany for gic testing. It was a routine examination, but the results disyed chronic myeloid leukemia. I¡¯m afraid that was when my third brother began contacting him.¡±


    The results of this private investigation report showed that Jin Ke Real Estate was a private real estatepany. Its registered capital was fifty million, and the legal representative¡¯s name was Zhou Jian.


    Sun Zinan¡¯spany was currently trying to acquire Jin Yuan Vi. However, thend and real estate were owned by Hongcheng Real Estate. Thispany was just an empty front.


    Hongcheng Real Estate was Sun Zinan¡¯s third brother Sun Ziyan¡¯spany.


    ording to the report, Hongcheng Real Estate had bought a piece ofnd in the southern suburbs of S City two years ago and invested two hundred million to build Jin Yuna Vi. But there was a clear problem with the project. Two safety idents urred midway, and the construction team was changed. Who knew how the ident was censored; one of the families involved was given money to keep quiet and they moved out of the province; the other family only consisted of the victim¡¯s mother. Her son¡¯s life was only exchanged for a meagerpensation. She was still running about, trying to petition for justice.


    This Jin Yuan Vi, to put it bluntly, was a shoddy tofu project. Seeing that it was about to fall out of his hands, Sun Ziyan had somehow gotten the news that Liu Cheng¡¯s daughter was sick. In order to make it seem realistic, he also specially created a shell in the form of Jin Ke Real Estate to cover up his actions.


    Building ecological sanatoriums was a developing trend in the health industry in recent years. Sun Zinan¡¯spany had improved quite a bit in the past two years, which currently put him at a very delicate and dangerous position in the Sun family. Sun Ziyan was very confident in his ns, because he knew Sun Zinan would jump into the pit.


    As for the future, once the house copsed in Sun Zinan¡¯s hands, it had nothing to do with Sun Ziyan.


    When Sun Zinan investigated Jin Ke Real Estate, he had almost been fooled by this empty shell corporation and merely thought he had been thinking too much about it. Later on, Sun Luo inadvertently gave him advice. He said that the southern suburbs of thend might be nned as an industrial park and a sewage treatment nt. He reminded him not to go there to buy a house ornd, in case he lost everything.


    Sun Zinan became vignt at this and found someone to continue to dig deeper before finally digging out the Sun Ziyan behind all of this.


    Interestingly enough, when he caught Sun Ziyan¡¯s fox tail, he found that Sun Ziyan¡¯s information channels were much slower than his own. He didn¡¯t even know about the sewage treatment nt. While Sun Ziyan did not realize that the risk thend within his hands was steadily bringing, Sun Zinan simply made a n. He began fake negotiations with Jin Ke Real Estate with the false intention of making a transaction and found another friend to help raise the price. They dangled this in front of Sun Ziyan¡¯s appetite, waiting for the news to see how he would copse in this situation.


    When he was a child who had no power to fight back, he could only stand and be beaten. Now that everyone was an adult, each with their own abilities, new and old hatreds could be solved all at once.


    ¡°Splendid.¡± Wang Geng listened, only now understanding that they had inadvertently stepped into a dog blood script. Not only had this script been bought, but people had even paid money to see it. He smiled wryly. ¡°Director Sun, you¡¯re still the ruthless one.¡±


    ¡°Life forced it out of me.¡± Sun Zinan smiled and said, ¡°Brothers fighting against each, how funny.¡±


    ¡°No...¡± Wang Geng did not understand how it felt to be schemed against by one¡¯s own brother, but how could he still smile about it? He only felt like he shouldn¡¯t involve himself in the leadership politics of this family and said dryly, ¡°Then, you...please ept my condolences.¡±


    Sun Zinan said calmly. ¡°That¡¯s not necessary. I am very happy.¡±


    Wang Geng, ¡°...Is your rtionship really that bad?¡±


    ¡°Go back and make an appointment with Jin Ke Real Estate. We have to perform well. Let¡¯s do a field survey,¡± Sun Zinan said. ¡°I looked for you to talk about another thing. It¡¯s about thepany¡¯s future direction.¡±


    ¡°Tell me about it, please.¡±


    ¡°Once this matter blows up, Sun Ziyan will not give up. The old man will probably be very dissatisfied with me.¡± Sun Zinan turned his pen around unconsciously and said, ¡°So I intend to resign before the New Year, retire early, and go home.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know how the group will determine the next director. I want to first ask about your intentions. You and I entered thepany at the same time. Over the past few years, you¡¯ve been involved in thepany¡¯s operational decisions and your abilities have been disyed for all to see. If you want to stay here in the future to continue developing thepany, I will rmend you as the priority to the group. I think they should still give this face to me.¡±


    Wang Geng had been hit by this sudden news, and it took him a few seconds to react. ¡°I need to think about it.¡±


    ¡°En, there¡¯s no rush.¡± Sun Zinan nodded and said, ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about Jin Ke Real Estate. We don¡¯t have to build an ecological sanatorium there. I have a friend in Lanshan who has bought a piece ofnd. The environment is good. He originally wanted it to be a guest house, but changing it to a healthcare park is also a good idea. After you finalize your ns, I can give you his contact information.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Wang Geng seemed quite panicked over the trajectory of his career. Sun Zinan knew that he might not be able to understand if he kept talking about it, so he changed the topic. ¡°It¡¯s time, let¡¯s go downstairs for the meeting. Let¡¯s focus on the things in front of us first.¡±


    Just then, Yu Liang came in to call them. Sun Zinan and Wang Geng exited the office one after another.


    It was just that the amount of information contained in that conversation had been too much. Vice president Wang¡¯s CPU was obviously overloaded. He was a little absent-minded, almost walking into the ss door before being quickly pulled back by Yu Liang.


    Assistant Yu had reactedpletely out of instinct. It was toote to regret and could only resign himself to his Stockholm Syndrome fate while asking, ¡°Vice president Wang, are you okay?¡±


    ¡°En?¡± Wang Geng met his young, clear eyes. In a moment of stupidity, he subconsciously grabbed at the back of Yu Liang¡¯s wrist.


    Yu Liang hissed out a breath of pain. Wang Geng immediately reacted and said lowly, ¡°My bad. Thank you.¡±


    Yu Liang did not know what wind had just blown by, but was inexplicably shocked by his eyes. He rubbed his wrist in a daze as he heard Sun Zinan¡¯s voice from the side.


    ¡°Ai, you two, what kind of idol drama are you acting?¡± Sun Zinan knocked at the elevator door. ¡°Do you have any sense of courtesy? Forget about no one calling the elevator for me. The boss has to even wait for you guys at the elevator.¡±


    Yu Liang moved like a rabbit, hopping into the elevator. Wang Geng followed but he didn¡¯t feel like he could face and talk to him again. He merely stareed at the reflection on the elevator wall, watching his youthful, student-like temperament.


    If I were to leave too, would youe with me?


    In order topletely, realistically act out this skit, Sun Zinan specially brought a group of people to Jinyuan Vi for a field survey. From the top down to the bottom of the pipeline, they were all ready. Like a spring tour group, they were led by the other side¡¯s reception staff, touring extensively.


    Because the greenery had not been installed in thendscape yet, the actual situation here was very different from the blueprints. Sun Zinan and Wang Geng remained silent, but the other unknowing members in the group were very spirited. Under the silent acquiescence of the two, they began conscientiously provoking: the pattern was not good, the color dull, the stairs were too steep, no barrier-free facilities,yout was unreasonable, facade was uneven, green area was too small....There were even people who put forward a constructive point of view: the school of Feng Shui believed that it was best when the mountains were surrounded by jade-like rivers. Only then would Jinyuan Vi be prosperous. It was currently situated on a curve that was against the principles of Feng Shui.


    This was a big disadvantage for doing business. After buying it, they would have to spend a lot of money for a Feng Shui master to change theyout.


    Sun Zinan and Wang Geng could not help but apud at this. Driven by the two of them, all the group members followed in giving their colleagues an enthusiastic apuse.


    Brainstorming was really useful. Sun Zinan had never thought that their roots in modern science and materialism could be hiding some bushy-eyed traitor.


    The staff member in charge of the tour stared at the ¡®against the principles of Feng Shui curve¡¯ and was stunned. He had never met such a picky customer. Although he didn¡¯t say it out loud, his expression clearly stated: What the fuck is this roguepany. In order to bargain they even lie with their eyes open?!

 Chapter 31 - A Side CP Drama

    <h4>Chapter 31 - A Side CP Drama</h4>


    Yu Liang apanied his bosses in the vi area for a while before he suddenly needed to go to the bathroom. So he told Sun Zinan he had to rest for a bit, asked the person in charge to point him in the location of the bathroom, and hurriedly ran over to solve his personal problems.


    Jin Yuan Vi was still under construction; the bathroom in the new house was not yet open to use and he could only make do with a simple bathroom built far away to the side.


    He knocked weakly on the door twice. There shouldn¡¯t be anyone there, since the people on the construction site were gone. Yu Liang inexplicably felt a little guilty, so went in lightly. He quickly went and was about to pull the curtain open when he suddenly heard heavy footsteps outside.


    He had been born with little courage and he was as sensitive as the grass moved by the wind blowing by. He originally could have walked out casually andfortably, but for some reason he thought he had done something wrong. At the sound of the footsteps, he turned around and hid in the corner behind a tool cab.


    Two middle-aged men came in along with the strong smell of smoke. Their speech was slightly ented; they were probably workers from the construction site. The material the vi was built with gave a faint echo to the sound of their conversation. The talking was apanied by a few rustles. They seemed to be talking about Yu Liang¡¯s group. ¡°The oneing today is some big boss, I saw Liu Qiang take them to see the house.¡±


    ¡°Someone really bought it?¡± The other said, ¡°Isn¡¯t that just rushing in generously to be deceived?¡±


    Yu Liang was shocked and quietly paid more attention.


    ¡°But speaking of that, the way they¡¯re cutting corners is crazy. In the buildings to the west, the iron railings on the balcony have only been installed but they¡¯re already rusting off.¡±


    The first person said, ¡°After we heard a few days ago that someone wasing to take a look, a few of us personally had to re-brush the paint.¡±


    ¡°In this world, money won¡¯t buy you a good house,¡± the other eximed. ¡°It¡¯s just this family, their hearts are as dark as ink. Didn¡¯t a stone kill two people the moment construction started? One of the victims had no family other than his mother who had sat at the door yesterday crying, looking very miserable. She had been driven out by Liu Qiang¡¯s grandson. Her son was gone in his early twenties, but he heard she had only received a hundred thousand dors inpensation.¡±


    ¡°s, the lives of the poor are worthless...¡±


    ¡°Life is so difficult, it¡¯s better to die than keep living...¡±


    The sound of conversation and footsteps gradually went away. The door outside shut with a heavy bam. Yu Liang didn¡¯t even dare breathe too loudly. Only when he was sure that the two people werepletely out of sight did he merge from the cab, his head covered in dust.


    His heart was beating very fast, about to fly out of his chest. He clenched his fists, his palms covered in cold sweat.


    He had to tell Sun Zinan as soon as possible¡ª


    He took a step forward, but perhaps due to the psychological effect or perhaps he had squatted for too long, his legs gave out beneath him.


    Yu Liang¡¯s courage wasn¡¯t even bigger than a sesame seed. He was the type of person who was easily scared, but always ran into the most eventful coincidences. On one hand, he knew he should immediately go to Sun Zinan and expose the problem of Jinyuan vi to him face-to-face; but on the other hand, he was afraid of all the potential risks. Starting from childhood, everyone had taught him to mind his own business. In case he messed up the business and brought on the wrath of Jin Ke Real Estate, what should he do?


    He wanted to be a good person and also wanted to be brave. He wanted to be a fearless hero.


    But he was just a helpless, ordinary person.


    Yu Liang struggled with this the entire way as he returned to the team. Sun Zinan nced at him and said jokingly, ¡°You went for so long, did you fall into the toilet?¡±


    Yu Liang was currently filled with guilt. Sun Zinan¡¯s words directly hit his conscience and he was so scared he almost jumped three meters away.


    ¡°What¡¯s with you?¡± Sun Zinan was also startled and said huffily, ¡°You¡¯re so jumpy. Did you flush your courage down the toilet too?¡±


    Yu Liang muttered, ¡°I&#k2026;sorry.¡±


    Sun zinan waved his hand, not caring too much, but Wang Geng turned to look at him and asked, ¡°Did something happen?¡±


    ¡°Nothing,¡± Yu Liang said hurriedly. ¡°Nothing happened.¡±


    Wang Geng remained doubtful.


    Liu Qiang, the person in charge, was leading them around the gate on the east side. Seeing that the time was not early, Sun Zinan¡¯s group of people stopped picking at the issues. He pretended to hesitate, thought for a bit, then said to the man, ¡°Let¡¯s stop here today. After all, this is a big transaction. We¡¯ll go back and have a meeting to discuss...¡±


    Yu Liang did not expect him to go so soon and immediately panicked, but did not have the courage to open his mouth although he was anxious to the point of crying out loud.


    Last time, he had overheard Liu Cheng¡¯s phone call and he didn¡¯t dare tell his boss. Fortunately, it didn¡¯t end up being anything big. But this was not the same; if he didn¡¯t speak up and Sun Zinan really bought Jin Yuan Vi, sooner orter the problem would be exposed. He might not be implicated in anything, but thepany would suffer significant losses.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go¡ª¡±


    ¡°Wait!¡± As soon as Sun Zinan¡¯s words left his mouth, he was interrupted by Yu Liang.


    It was taboo to interrupt a boss in public. Wang Geng came forward to diffuse the situation and asked, ¡°Little Yu, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°I...¡± Yu Liang stammered, his face turning red, only to say, ¡°I, that...I just remembered we haven¡¯t visited the buildings in the west.¡±


    Liu Qiang said hurriedly, ¡°The buildings are the same, symmetrical to the buildings in the east.¡±


    For the first time, Yu Liang stood at the center of so many people¡¯s gazes. He was so embarrassed he was about to drill himself into a hole, but he still insisted, ¡°That, we should still take a look.¡±


    Sun Zinan¡¯s eyes delicately questioned Wang Geng, who nodded back.


    ¡°He just entered thepany and doesn¡¯t understand how things work. Please don¡¯t be offended.¡± Wang Geng pushed Yu Liang behind him and said politely to Liu Qiang, ¡°Since we¡¯ve already mentioned it, let¡¯s be a little more cautious and take a stroll around?¡±


    Liu Qiang suddenly felt his heart cool down. He strongly suppressed his emotions and gave a guilty smile. ¡°Is Vice president Wang saying he doesn¡¯t trust our sincerity?¡±


    Of course not, Wang Geng thought to himself.


    However, he couldn¡¯t show it on the surface and merely seemingly smiled apologetically. ¡°This matter is important. We want to do this for the better cooperation between our two sides.¡±


    After saying this, he turned to Sun Zinan and asked, ¡°Director Sun, how do you feel?¡±


    Boss Sun went with the flow and waved his hand of authority. ¡°Let¡¯s walk around.¡±


    The appearance of the vi in the west looked no different from the row of buildings in the east at first nce, but the color seemed to be a little fresher. The person in charge led them to stop outside the courtyard and said, ¡°I really have nothing to introduce. Director Sun, you see, are both sides not the exact same?¡±


    ¡°Well,¡± Sun Zinan asked carelessly, ¡°Little Yu, what do you think?¡±


    Yu Liang gritted his teeth and said, ¡°We can¡¯t really tell by standing outside...why don¡¯t we go inside and take a look?¡±


    The tour guide even thought about killing him at this moment.


    Sun Zinan actually also expressed his support, so he could not help doubting that this boy was actually Sun Zinan¡¯s rtive. Just a small assistant couldn¡¯t sway their ns like this!


    The group of people walked into the vi. The inside had not been renovated yet. It was empty and quiet. They went up the stairs to the second floor. The corridor didn¡¯t have many issues. Yu Liang remembered what the two workers had said, and deliberately led them to the terrace. He wasn¡¯t very good at architecture. In fact, he didn¡¯t even think about how to debunk the scam. He could only act on instinct and thought to himself that if everything else failed he could just try to break the railing with his hands.


    The vi had an open terrace on the second floor. It was surrounded by a white wrought iron fence, suitable for a set of tea tables and chairs, or for growing flowers and grasses.


    Yu Liang¡¯s entire mind was focused on exposing schemes. He walked even quicker than Sun Zinan and rushed to the front of the group. He was a foolish child who didn¡¯t think too much and got carried away at first nce. He didn¡¯t pay attention to his steps while walking and identally stepped on a PVC pipe on the ground. The soles of his feet slipped, and his body suddenly fell forward uncontrobly¡ª


    If it had been on a normal balcony he would have been caught by the railings; but now he knew better than anyone that in front of him was a shoddy, rusty iron fence!


    ¡°Be careful!¡±


    With a clunk, the weight of an adult easily broke the rusty fence.


    The space in front of Yu Liang was empty. He fell down, wing in panic. In the brief moment of weightlessness, he heard the wind whistling by his ears.


    ¡®Am I going to die?¡¯ He thought in despair.


    In his more than twenty years of life, he had not experienced any earth-shattering setbacks or tribtions. He had grown up peacefully and found a decent job. Although he didn¡¯t have much courage, fortunately, there was rarely anything that required him to be brave. Forget about even having to worry about his life.


    Yu Liang never thought that the plots he saw in films and TV dramas would suddenly happen to him. He was like an unprepared soldier who had just been pushed onto the battlefield. It was toote to think of every move that had led step by step to his fall.


    From childhood, school had taught him to be brave, honest, and kind; his parents had taught him to protect himself and to mind his own business. When he went out into society, the words ¡®good people obtain good rewards¡¯ went in his left ear and came out of his right ear as ¡®good people do not live long.¡¯ No one could give him an exact answer. He had waited so long to muster enough courage before he ran into a wall and ate appeared coldly, rewarding him harshly.


    It was hard to be a good person, ah.


    He never wanted to be a good person again...


    ¡°Yu Liang!¡± In the face of this close call, Wang Geng rushed out from behind Sun Zinan, his reaction surprisingly quick. He hurried over to grab Yu Liang¡¯s cor. At the same time, he was also pulled forward by gravity and instantly hit the railing. The two of them fell down the terrace.


    Sun Zinan¡¯s expression changed dramatically, but everything had happened too fast. There was no time for him to go forward and save them. Wang Geng was dragged down by Yu Liang but he actively sought to save themselves. His left hand swept around and happened to grasp a part of the iron railing that had not yet broken.


    The iron fence was embedded in the wall and rtively secure. It managed to hold the weight of the two of them. Yu Liang felt himself stabilize and dazedly looked back. He saw Wang Geng with his entire body leaning off the terrace, grabbing his cor with one hand and holding the iron railing with the other. A sharp iron fragment was buried in his palm and blood flowed down his wrist into the sleeves of his shirt. His white shirt cuffs had beenpletely dyed blood red.


    ¡±Vice president Wang,¡± he cried, shivering as he continued, ¡°Quickly go up, ah...¡±


    The man frowned, his mouth tight, but his tone was as calm as ever as if he didn¡¯t feel any pain. ¡°Yu Liang, the second floor is not that high, you should be safe now. Look for a ce to put your feet down. If you can¡¯t find one, you can directly jump down.¡±


    Yu Liang did not know why, but tears suddenly rushed out.


    ¡°Don¡¯t cry, calm down, you won¡¯t die if you fall.¡± Wang Geng said softly, ¡°Look around for a ce tond, your clothes won¡¯t hold up.¡±


    Yu Liang hung above the first floor window, surrounded by a smooth wall. There was no ce for him tond. He choked out, ¡°I, I better jump...¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Wang Geng said, ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid. Take a deep breath and listen to me. On the count of three.¡±


    Yu Liang forced his cries back into his throat.


    ¡°Three, two, one, jump!¡±


    Wang Geng let go. Yu Liang exhausted all his efforts in adjusting his posture. His entire body squatted and jumped down. His heels tingled from the impact ofnding. His body was not stable and his left knee knocked heavily against the ground.


    It was indeed painful. Although it was far from unbearable, he sobbed like a child with a broken knee.


    On the other side of the terrace, a group of hands and feet scrambled to pull up the brave vice president Wang. Wang Geng acted like nothing had happened. He pinched at his wrist to stop the bleeding and even had the leisure to appease the crowd. ¡°It¡¯s just a small injury, it¡¯s nothing...someone go check on Yu Liang, he¡¯s probably scared out of his wits.¡±


    ¡°Bullshit. Do you not want your hand?¡±


    Sun Zinan looked at his copiously bleeding left hand. His expression could not have been uglier. He turned to Director Zheng who was standing next to him and said, ¡°Drive the car, hurry and send the two of them to the hospital, hurry up!¡±


    Director Zheng made a sound of agreement and jogged over to the car. Hongsen¡¯s people busily looked after the two wounded people. Everything was a mess.


    The head of Jin Ke Real Estate waspletely panicked and shrunk aside, trying to minimize his existence, but Sun Zinan locked onto him with a single nce.


    Liu Qiang had never witnessed this Director Sun¡¯s anger. With such a nce, he suddenly had a sense of suffocating panic, as if his neck was being choked.


    ¡°This is not over,¡± Sun Zinan said coldly. ¡°Go back and tell your boss to wait for a letter from awyer and a court subpoena.¡±

 Chapter 32 - The Romance Drama Has Come Back

    <h4>Chapter 32 - The Romance Drama Has Come Back</h4>


    This event also involved extremely sensitive security issues. Sun Zinan didn¡¯t even need to make excuses for the other party to understand that there was no business deal awaiting.


    They rushed Wang Geng and Yu Liang to the hospital. Because it was a workce ident, Sun Zinan directly settled the medical expenses and only ordered an assistant to save the documents as im certificates forter.


    Fortunately, the goddess of fate merely raised her hand high to gently pat his face. Yu Liang¡¯s injury was not too heavy; he merely twisted his left foot. After rubbing on a bit of medicine, he could continue working as usual. Vice president Wang¡¯s injury was more serious. His hand required three stitches and needed to be carefully monitored.


    Sun Zinan went out to make a phone call and came back to see Yu Liang carefully holding Wang Geng¡¯s left hand on the bench outside the surgical clinic, his tears dripping nonstop.


    Karma always paid back. Sun Zinan was used to giving Yu Liang dog food and he had finally gotten his revenge. He stood next to them and watched for a moment before he finally couldn¡¯t resist walking over. ¡°Okay, stop those tears. Look at you crying like a child. If I didn¡¯t know better I would¡¯ve thought Old Wang had just had a miscarriage.¡±


    Vice president Wang had been enjoying all the attention. When he heard this, he immediately threw him a condemning look. ¡°Director Sun, Little Yu is scared. Don¡¯t make it worse.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    Yu Liang said sobbingly, ¡°Director Sun...so, so, sorry... all, it¡¯s all, all because of me...¡±


    ¡°Forget it, you don¡¯t need to apologize.¡± Sun Zinan was tempered by his deted appearance and quickly said, ¡°Fortunately, nothing terrible happened. If you¡¯re really unhappy, then take good care of your savior. Thepany will reimburse the medical expenses for both of you. If it¡¯s not convenient, Old Wang can take some time off to heal his hand.¡±


    Wang Geng pretended to be very dedicated and said, ¡°It¡¯s just a minor injury. I can continue working.¡±


    This old fox surnamed Wang was pretending to be both weak and righteous. In fact, a beautiful snot bubble was about toe out. This acting could only fool Yu Liang, that dumb little kid. Sun Zinan was toozy to expose him and said indifferently, ¡°Okay. Figure it out yourself and arrange work ording to your actual situation. Don¡¯t act too brave, ourpany is not a sweatshop.¡±


    Yu Liang nodded heavily and assured him: ¡°I, I will definitely, take, take care of vice president Wang...¡±


    Sun Zinan listened to him panicking and quickly waved his hand. ¡°You two wait here for the checkup report. Have the driver send you back in a while. I still have work to do so I¡¯ll be going first.¡±


    At the beginning of this year, he hadn¡¯t even found a partner. Sun Zinan had be a winner in life in such a quick time, gathering both a family and a home. He definitely did not want to act as a light bulb to these two novices.


    Sun Zinan left the hospital but did not return to thepany. He drove directly to Tianhai University.


    Tang Kai had a big lecture this afternoon that ended around 5:30 P.M. Sun Zinan had a schedule on his phone Tang Kai had sent him before. There were also a few unread messages on WeChat.


    Professor Tang was sometimes ridiculously childish. He went to hisb without his phone and was always afraid Sun Zinan would urgently need to find him. So every time before he went, he would send him a ¡®Going to theb¡¯ on Wechat; one or two hourster he¡¯de out to rest and send ¡®I came out¡¯; ten minutester, if he wanted to return, he would send ¡®Going in again.¡¯ If Sun Zinan was still ignoring him by the second time he came out, he would send the e back after dinner do you still love me¡® meme.


    They were both busy with work and did not live together. They often could only video chat for a few minutes at night. This clinginess was not an annoyance; in fact, it was the thing that bound them together.


    Love did not have to be dered to the world, but it had to be heard by one¡¯s loved one.


    Sun Zinan parked his car in the temporary parking space and replied with ¡®I¡¯m waiting for you downstairs.¡¯


    It wasn¡¯t long before a tall and thin figure came out of the door to the Department of Science. The man in a gray slim coat hurried down the steps. He opened the car door and rushed over with his breath forming clouds in the air. ¡°Howe you¡¯re here?¡±


    The texture of his suit felt rough but very warm. Tang Kai hugged Sun Zinan. Sun Zinan kissed the side of his face, smiled, and said, ¡°Nothing, I just suddenly missed you.¡±


    Tang Kai hummed, then opened his mouth and asked, ¡°Who did you go with to the hospital today? What happened?¡±


    Sun Zinan knew that he was sensitive, but did not expect his sensitivity to be this high. He was about to catch up with Sherlock Holmes. He couldn¡¯t help butugh as he asked, ¡°How could you tell?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just after 6 o¡¯clock, and there¡¯s a traffic jam outside. You wouldn¡¯t be able to get here by now if you were working normally from thepany. You would¡¯ve gone somewhere else this afternoon, or left work early.¡± Tang Kai reached out and pulled at his cuffs. ¡°I just smelled the scent of disinfectant. There¡¯s a little blood stain here, but you have no wounds. So I guess someone else got hurt and you took them to the hospital beforeing to pick me up?¡±


    Sun Zinan apuded him in admiration.


    Tang Kai brushed it off as if it were something trivial and asked, ¡°Are you tired? Why don¡¯t you stay over tonight?¡±


    Sun Zinan just wanted to stay with him; it didn¡¯t matter where they went. ¡°Sure, let¡¯s stop by the market to buy some food.¡±


    After listening to him talk about the on site ident, Tang Kai decided he would have his father send several administrative penalties to Jin Ke Real Estate to express his gratitude towards Sun Zinan.


    Sun Zinan¡¯s personal tendency to y the hero was a little serious. He did not want to involve Tang Kai in the internal struggles of the Sun family. As a result, Professor Tang stopped him in the corridor and gave him a little physical lecture. This education of Sun Zinan left him with red eyes and a shortness of breath, but he still insisted, ¡°Don¡¯t cause any trouble...I can deal with it. There¡¯s no need to bother your father.¡±


    ¡°You, as aw-abiding citizen, should report this crime. This isn¡¯t a bother.¡± Tang Kai said lowly, ¡°The most troublesome part is the fact that you take me as an outsider.¡±


    ¡±I don¡¯t...¡±


    ¡°You do.¡± Tang Kai said bluntly, ¡°Sometimes I feel very useless. I want to treat you well, but I don¡¯t know where to start.¡±


    Sun Zinan¡¯s heart thumped, and he quickly looked up to gauge Tang Kai¡¯s expression.


    The corridor lights were dim. Tang Kai¡¯s face was backlit where he stood. His subtle expressions were hidden in the shadows. His expression did not seem angry, but it definitely didn¡¯t seem happy either.


    ¡°I...¡± Sun Zinan wanted to touch his face, but he hesitated after raising his hands and put them down again. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to avoid you or not let you help. I just felt like I¡¯d rather have you work in ease and focus on what you want to do. I don¡¯t want you to worry about irrelevant things and I don¡¯t want our interests to conflict.¡±


    Tang Kai grabbed his hand and ced it on his chest, letting him feel his vigorous heartbeat. He said softly, ¡°But I like you.¡±


    Sun Zinan had been hit directly in the heart and sumbed on the spot.


    ¡°You...¡° In the cold winter night, his heart was as soft as water. He didn¡¯t know what to say, not knowing whether tough or cry. ¡°This is business. Don¡¯t try to y foul.¡±


    Tang Kai pulled his hand up and continued walking up the stairs. ¡°Is that not important? Everything is second to you. I¡¯m willing to intervene in these things.¡±


    ¡°The next time you encounter something like this, don¡¯t resist telling me. Even if I can¡¯t help, I can at leastfort you. After all, I¡¯m the one you should trust for the rest of your life, en?¡±


    Sun Zinan had been born to be worried and was blinded by Tang Kai, who did not seem to know the world. So he had subconsciously put himself in the position of a protector, as if Tang Kai was not a teacher but a princess in an ivory tower.


    Tang Kai was usually happy to be spoiled by him and fulfilled his desire to protect him. But if he merely stood idly by over such a big thing and let Sun Zinan figure it out alone, then there was no point in being his partner. He wouldn¡¯t even have to wait for the New Year before throwing himself into the trash.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Sun Zinan endured the fiery expression within his eyes. ¡°I¡¯ll remember.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s how it should be.¡± Tang Kai opened the door with his key, then turned sideways to let him in as he said casually, ¡°Besides, yourpany¡¯s vice president and assistant have both faced injustice. Isn¡¯t this a disaster? Even if you don¡¯t do it for yourself, you have to fight for the two of them, right? After all, the blood of a martyr cannot flow in vain.¡±


    Sun Zinan smiled and almost pushed the shoe cab over. ¡°He only got a wound on his hand. It¡¯s not that heroic. Please don¡¯t push people onto pedestals.¡±


    Tang Kai turned on the light in the living room and said indifferently, ¡°I understand. Make yourself at home. I need to make a call.¡±


    Sun Zinan nodded, knowing that he wanted to contact people about Sun Ziyan. He didn¡¯t stop him and instead turned to the kitchen.


    Winter is suitable for food that warmed one up; it was okay if they ate more meat. For dinner, in addition to the chicken stew Tang Kai wanted to eat, there was also a pot of hot and fragrant wintermelonmb soup. Sun Zinan added a te of scallion tofu. When Tang Kai came out of the study, he was just rinsing the noodles in water and dividing the food into two portions to serve.


    Tang Kai looked at the medium-sized bowl in front of Sun Zinan, then at the ss bowl in front of himself. He was so scared his phone almost fell out of his hand. ¡°Darling, this is too much love¡ªis this amount for a pig?!¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it your fault you don¡¯t buy bowls? I can¡¯t find a big bowl so let¡¯s just use one of these mixing bowls, otherwise the noodles can¡¯t be mixed.¡± Sun Zinan said, ¡°Where¡¯s all this nonsenseing from? Are you going to eat or not?¡±


    Tang Kai used to be young and ignorant. When he went to his school reunion, he had alsoughed at married male students who had be thicker stalks of spring onion. It was only now that he realized how easy it was to be fat after marriage.


    With Sun Zinan¡¯s feeding methods, his abs and mermaid line were in danger.


    Thinking of this, Professor Tang put down his phone, went to the table to sit down, and said resolutely, ¡°Eat.¡±


    Sun Zinan smiled slightly. ¡°Good.¡±


    He really did overeat during this meal. Tang Kai pulled Sun Zinan to the school gym to burn some calories. Boss Sun¡¯s delicate body and noble character would never allow him to run, so he was only willing to wake a few steps on the treadmill. Professor Tang acted like the soles of his feet were burning hot; he ran eight kilometers, and lifted weights non-stop for half an hour.


    The male god professor of Tianhai University was well known. As he worked out, his sweaty appearance made the girl next to him stare at him with sparkling eyes. When Sun Zinan turned back by chance and scanned around, he saw at least five phone cameras pointing in their direction.


    ¡°...¡± He silently turned his head back, whispering to Tang Kai, ¡°Let¡¯s go soon. If you run any longer, I think you¡¯ll appear on the headlines of tomorrow¡¯s school newspaper.¡±


    Tang Kai returned his equipment, his brows wrinkled as a mischievous expression appeared on his face. ¡°Appearing on the headlines because I¡¯m lifting weights? How boring. Why not¡ª¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°En?¡± Tang Kai stood up and suddenly reached out to embrace him against his chest. He tilted his head and kissed him, then looked back at the stunned students and waved. In a t, stable press conference tone, he said. ¡°Thank you, everyone. Good night, students.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    Tang Kai hugged Sun Zinan, walking off in contentment. Their figures disappeared at the front gate. Two secondster, the gym suddenly broke out into screams¡ª


    ¡°Aaaaaaaaaa I¡¯m dead¡ª!¡±

 Chapter 33 - The Romance Drama Has Left Again

    <h4>Chapter 33 - The Romance Drama Has Left Again</h4>


    Within a week after the site ident, Sun Zinan and the other biotechnologypany suspended negotiations with Jin Ke Real Estate. Amissionedwyer sent a subpoena notice to thepany. But this was just the beginning as one disaster after another piled on. What really trapped Jin Ke Real Estate was that the administrative department suddenly started inspections and punishments.


    A weekter, the n for the construction of a sewage treatment nt in the southern suburbs was officially released.


    This decision directly pushed Jin Ke Real Estate and the Hongcheng Real Estate behind it into a desperate situation. Sun Ziyan had bought thisnd and treated it like a hen about toy a golden egg. But now all the ns regarding Jinyuan Vi had been smashed, and even the price of thend was shrinking. Hongcheng¡¯s capital turnover was already tight. Due to the news, it seemed that this fracture would be visible to the naked eye even in the future.


    Sun Zinan closed the news webpage in satisfaction and sent a WeChat to the boss of the other biotechnologypany to express his gratitude. When he turned back to check the news about Sun Luo, he finally received Secretary Wang¡¯s call.


    ¡°Director Sun,¡± Secretary Wang said politely, ¡°The chairman invites you to go home for dinner tonight.¡± Among all the people in his family, Secretary Wang was the most well-behaved. He would always call Sun Zinan little master; now that something had happened to Sun Ziyan, he immediately started calling Sun Zinan ¡®Director Sun.¡¯


    It was no wonder he had be Sun Ying¡¯s confidant; this ability to change his words with the situation was not an ability normal people could master.


    Sun Zinan secretlyughed to himself but his tone stayed innocent. ¡°En, I will be on time.¡±


    He sent Tang Kai a WeChat to tell him that he was going back home to eat dinner tonight, so he wouldn¡¯t wait for him and would make do with the school canteen instead.


    Tang Kai was still in hisb. Sun Zinan did not wait for his response and drove off.


    Dinner was still at the luxury mansion by a peacefulke. Thest time Sun Zinan came over, it didn¡¯t look particrly pleasing to the eye. However, today, perhaps due to his good mood, he decided to finally disengage his emotions from the ce. At this moment, Sun Zinan was willing to abandon all his preconceived notions and enjoy everything.


    There were four people sitting in the dining room. When Sun Zinan entered the door, Sun Ziyan impulsively stood up to beat him. He was immediately pulled back by the rest of his siblings, but he was still angry, his face red as he pointed at Sun Zinan and shouted, ¡°Traitorous son of a bitch! What the hell are you doing! You better not fall into my hands,ozi will kill you!¡±


    Sun Zinan smiled unconcernedly. ¡°Good evening. It¡¯s so lively. What¡¯s Third Brother yelling about?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough! Third Eldest, sit down!¡± The eldest Sun Ziyuan came out and scolded Sun Ziyan, then said to Sun Zinan, ¡°You also talk less.¡±


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t buy his attempt to smooth things over and feigned surprise. ¡°I merely entered through the door and said hello. When has even ¡®good evening¡¯ be a prohibited word in our family?¡±


    Sun Ziyan was furious, jumping his feet and shouting, ¡°Just who are you trying to fucking y dumb with?¡±


    ¡°By saying this, what is Third Brother is saying I¡¯m ying dumb about?¡± Sun Zinan didn¡¯t want to bother with following his train of thought and said directly, ¡°If you know, then why don¡¯t you say it?¡±


    Sun Ziyuan could not control the two of them. He sat to one side with a headache, sulking; the second oldest decided to pretend to be deaf and mute, and did not say anything. Only Sun Ziyi had a good rtionship with her brother. Seeing that no one else was speaking up, sheughed coldly and sneered, ¡°Does this need to be said? Doesn¡¯t everyone think about it? Isn¡¯t he just a traitor who¡¯ll bite people out of unfamiliarity? What kind of thing did Dad pick up? If we had known this before we would have just let him die outside.¡±


    ¡°Ziyi!¡± Sun Ziyuan roared, ¡°What nonsense are you spouting!¡±


    ¡°What, did I say something wrong? Brother, I don¡¯t believe you don¡¯t think this too.¡± Sun Ziyi stuck her neck out. ¡°Dad was already fifty and came back with a child he said was his younger son. Did you not think about the possibilities? Who knows if he¡¯s the son of the old Sun family? We¡¯ve spent so many years raising him at home and feeding him, and now he begins to harm the family! Since the day he entered the door, there has been no security at home. Tell me, what ill-omened star is this!¡±


    ¡°Fourth Sister, I advise you to not say too much. You¡¯re Dad¡¯s only daughter. Don¡¯t you know what kind of character he is?¡± Sun Zinan was not angry, but his tone was sarcastic. ¡°If I could choose, I wouldn¡¯t want to be in your Sun family. All you do is bossily peck for bugs at home like a chicken. Even if your IQ is low, you still want to grab at things.¡±


    He came back from abroad only recently and no longer had the appearance of a doormat, but he usually didn¡¯t act too tough in front of his siblings. In general, Sun Zinan acted rather calmly and tolerated them, so it was no wonder Sun Ziyan took him as a soft persimmon to pinch at.


    But no one expected him to not only avoid the pit, but also easily put Sun Ziyan in his ce. It was just that Sun Zinan had suddenly proven a little difficult to deal with. The four siblings were a little overwhelmed and the atmosphere in the dining room was temporarily silent and awkward.


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t want to bother talking with them. He didn¡¯te to fight war tactics with them today, so he turned to ask the housekeeper, ¡°Didn¡¯t I get called back for dinner? Where¡¯s my Dad?¡±


    Sun Ying¡¯s old, hoarse voice sounded from the other end of the dining room. ¡°So you still know I¡¯m your father?¡±


    ¡±There¡¯s no me without you.¡± Sun Zinan smiled, but his eyes were cold. ¡°Didn¡¯t Ie like you told me to? What else are you not satisfied with?¡±


    Indeed, as soon as he acted tough, Sun Ying¡¯s momentum weakened.


    The old man knocked on the ground with a cane and said to Sun Zinan, ¡°Come with me to my study.¡±


    ¡°Come on, we¡¯re in front of so many people.¡±


    Sun Zinan remained unmoving. ¡± I think talking here openly and honestly is very good. We can reveal everything that has happened in all these years, lest other people have to secretly guess. It¡¯s very inefficient otherwise.¡±


    Sun Ying¡¯s expression sank. ¡°Have your wings hardened, so you don¡¯t need to be taken care of anymore?¡±


    ¡°Recently a lot of people have been speaking ruthless words, so if my tone is a little rushed, please forgive me.¡± Sun Zinan sat down on a sofa. ¡°Dad, did you call everyone back today to chat with everyone one by one?¡±


    Sun Ying was blocked by him to the point of chest pain. ¡°Isn¡¯t it because you¡¯re causing trouble outside? At this age, I still have to go clean up the mess for you! You still have the face to ask me!¡±


    ¡°This is your blood-rted brother. You hit him so hard without even greeting him. Who is going to clean it up afterwards? Isn¡¯t it still your father?¡±


    Sun Ziyi immediately helped add fuel to the fire. ¡°Dad is so old, do you have no conscience? Are you trying to provoke Dad?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Sun Zinanzily cocked his legs up and said, ¡°If we allpete against each other for a bit, let¡¯s keep ourselves safe and don¡¯t engage in too much. Then Dad won¡¯t have to work so hard.¡±


    His words flowed smoothly. No matter what Sun Ziyi handed him, he returned them to Sun Ziyan. His attitude was still very sincere.


    It would be too unreasonable if Sun Ziyi kept provoking him.


    Sun Ying looked at him unconcernedly. But for some reason, he had the inkling of a premonition, so he immediately changed his strategy and became gentle. He said as peacefully as possible, ¡°Things have turned out like this; talking about it now is just an afterthought. If you have the time to quarrel, why not think about how to clean it up?¡±


    Everyone became silent at this.


    The crusade against Sun Zinan was one thing, but cleaning up the mess was another. For the former, they only needed to move their mouths; theter required contributing money. Sun Ziyan¡¯s Hongcheng Real Estate had suddenly lost hundreds of millions. Hongsen Group was not short of this money, but it was not a small amount to any of them.


    ¡°Dad, this is an issue of infighting between two children after all. No matter how we deal with this, someone will feel like it¡¯s not fair.¡± The second eldest son Sun Ziqing opened his mouth for the first time and kicked the ball back to Sun Ying. ¡°I think we should do our best to save Hongcheng Real Estate in ordance with the group¡¯s regtions.¡±


    Sun Ziyuan suddenly became very anxious. ¡°Second Brother!¡±


    His idea was very simple. If they didn¡¯t act ording to Sun Ziqing¡¯s words, Hongcheng Real Estate was sure to go bankrupt at the rate it was losing money. But forget about Sun Ziyan being able to continue on as president, this was also directly forgiving Sun Zinan¡¯s doings. Wouldn¡¯t that be a waste of today¡¯s uproar?


    ¡°I was calcted against this time and forced to fall. I absolutely won¡¯t forget it.¡± Sun Ziyan said, ¡°Dad, if you favor him so much, sooner orter one day our brothers will be harmed to death by him!¡±


    Sun Ying frowned. ¡°What nonsense are you saying!¡±


    ¡°I know exactly what the little boy is ying at in his heart.¡± Sun Ziyan stared at Sun Zinan sinisterly, ¡°He¡¯s thinking about our family¡¯s property. Face to face, he pretends to be a grandson, but behind our backs, he creates these ck-handed ns. You want to make trouble for me, hm? You just wait. Sooner orter, I¡¯ll destroy you.¡±


    ¡°Tsk, listen to you. Those who didn¡¯t know better would think I bribed a member of yourpany to trick you into making poor decisions.¡± Sun Zinanughed. ¡°Third Brother, did you really brainwash yourself into believing you were the victim because you spent too long pretending you were pathetic?¡±


    ¡°Sun Zinan!¡± Sun Ying said, ¡°He made a mistake, but he¡¯s still your family after all. Stop pretending you have no rtion to us!¡±


    Sun Ziyi muttered, ¡°What¡¯s the point of telling him, he¡¯s just a traitor who doesn¡¯t recognize us.¡±


    ¡±You can¡¯t say that.¡± Sun Ziyuan finally couldn¡¯t stand listening to them anymore. ¡°If you say Zinan¡¯s actions towards Third Brother are traitorous against family members, then aren¡¯t Third Brother¡¯s actions the same?¡±


    ¡°How can that be the same!¡± Sun Ziyi shouted, ¡°He¡¯s not a part of our family!¡±


    ¡±You see.¡± Sun Zinan quirked his lips and said to Sun Ying, ¡°This is the consequence of your decision to leave a tiger to grow up by itself. It¡¯s toote to talk to me about family ties, Dad.¡±


    His voice was very light and there wasn¡¯t any hint of hatred within his tone, but the implicit meaning behind his words made Sun Ying shiver in fear. He couldn¡¯t resist resorting to his usual threat. ¡°You dare talk to me like this...do you not want your inheritance?¡±


    As soon as the word ¡®inheritance¡¯ came out, the dining room suddenly fell into a dead silence.


    Sun Zinan nced at their faces one by one. On those aging faces, expressions of tension, suspicion and calction could not be hidden. He suddenly felt an indescribable pleasure in his heart, floating on top of the faint pain and sorrow, like he was a man crawling out of a dark cave to see the sun for the first time. He was both excited by the bright new life, but also sentimental for his barren past.


    He stood up.


    ¡°Today, while everyone is here, I want to announce an important decision.¡±


    Sun Ying suddenly felt a very bad premonition rising in his heart.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m indeed Dad¡¯s son and not some illegitimate or foster child. He found a surrogate to give birth to me. As for why, Dad knows very well, so I won¡¯t say any more about that.¡±


    ¡°Although the currentw of our country does not allow breaking off the father-son rtionship, I have several siblings so our father shouldn¡¯t fall to the point where I have to support him.¡± Sun Zinan said unhurriedly, ¡°So from today, once I leave out the door, I will have no rtionship with the Sun family. As for the inheritance, do whatever you want with it. Don¡¯t use it to ckmail me, otherwise others will be like mad dogs, biting at me with no intention of letting go.¡±


    The people in the dining room stared at him as if they had been frozen.


    ¡°Zinan,¡± Sun Ziyuan said calmly, ¡°Do you know what you¡¯re talking about?¡±


    Sun Zinan turned away his eyes from boredom and scoffedzily. ¡°Elder Brother, we¡¯re already at this stage. Don¡¯t pretend to be a good person. Do you think you¡¯ll receive a few extra dors if you make me repeat my words?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll get rid of all the work and shares rted to thepany and the group as soon as possible. Since we were once family, let¡¯s end well.¡±


    Sun Zinan turned and began walking out, then suddenly remembered something and stopped his steps. ¡°Oh right¡ª¡±


    ¡°I have a few documents about some ¡®illegal operation¡¯ Hongcheng Real Estate has been doing in recent years.¡± He turned towards Sun Ziyan. ¡°I remember someone had just said they were going to kill me? I wee you to try. I¡¯ll be waiting.¡±

 Chapter 34 - The Romance Drama Has Come Back and Wont Leave Again

    <h4>Chapter 34 - The Romance Drama Has Come Back and Won¡¯t Leave Again</h4>


    Sun Zinan drove out of the vi garden and along the empty road at night before entering the Fourth Ring road.


    He hadn¡¯t even driven ten meters along the road when a car followed up behind him, honking. At first, Sun Zinan thought someone was trying to overtake him, but when the other party pulled down their window, he saw that the person sitting inside was Tang Kai.


    He gestured to call him on his phone, then slowed down. Sun Zinan put on a Bluetooth headset and picked up Tang Kai¡¯s call.


    ¡°When did youe?¡±


    ¡°I came after work.¡± Tang Kai¡¯s tone was slightlyining as he said, ¡°I waited outside for you a long time and you didn¡¯t see me.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you toe over here.¡±


    ¡°You just unmasked something. Your father definitely didn¡¯t call you over for something good.¡± Tang Kai asked uneasily, ¡°They didn¡¯t bully you, right?¡±


    Sun Zinan smiled. ¡°They didn¡¯t. I remember there¡¯s a parking lot after going down the intersection in front. I¡¯ll go park the car, you wait for me.¡±


    Ten minutester, Sun Zinan opened the door empty-handed and sat in the passenger seat.


    Tang Kai leaned over to fasten his seat belt and patted him on the face. ¡°Your ce or back to my apartment?¡±


    ¡°Your apartment.¡± Sun Zinan lowered his seat a little and sighed a little tiredly. ¡°I¡¯m not going back to my ce for a few days.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°I spoke some harsh words to them this evening. They definitely won¡¯t stop. They¡¯ll probablye find me, but I don¡¯t want to bother with them.¡± Sun Zinan looked back, then closed his eyes. ¡°I¡¯ll tell you the details when we get back. You should focus on driving first.¡±


    The streetmps at night became a bright river of lights. asionally, one or two beams of headlights from cars going the opposite direction would shine into the dim window, leaving shadows falling onto Sun Zinan¡¯s face. Within the shadows, a tired and deep-rooted sense of loss was illuminated.


    It was a sadness he had opened up by himself.


    Although Tang Kai rarely cooked at home, he did hide a few bottles of quality red wine. It was suitable to pour out in the sorrow of tonight.


    Normally, Tang Kai would have stopped him, but after hearing that Sun Zinan had left his family, he knew he needed to vent. He simply poured him a cup of red wine, sat on the sofa, and listened to his memories of the past. This also served to rify his long-standing doubts.


    ¡°My father doesn¡¯t really think like normal people.¡± Sun Zinan said faintly, ¡°He developed and grew Hongsen, and saving this family business was not easy. He often feels like this is a throne that needs a perfect heir, worthy of his life¡¯s efforts.¡±


    ¡°My eldest brother and second brother were born with another woman when he was young. He brought his sons back to raise and sent the mother away with some money. He wouldn¡¯t let mother and sons meet; he had to personally train the children. It sounds like the ancient times, when a mentally ill emperor would specifically look for an heir. My dad never married a wife; the only time he was tempted was probably with Sun Ziyan and Sun Ziyi¡¯s mother. But the womanmitted suicide shortly after giving birth, and we don¡¯t know why.¡±


    ¡°Perhaps because of that, he particrly spoils my third brother and fourth sister. That¡¯s why they¡¯re useless. But in the line of the Sun family, doing something strange isn¡¯t a big deal. As long as it¡¯s not out of line, a family of five can live very well. But the old man had to toss me into it without rifying anything. Since then, the family hasn¡¯t lived in peace.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not your choice, they shouldn¡¯t me you.¡±


    Tang Kai gently stroked his shoulder a few times andforted him. ¡°But why did he have another child?¡±


    ¡°The reason is quite ridiculous. It¡¯s absurd to say it.¡± Sun Zinan shook his ss of wine around and asked him, ¡°Have you ever heard of the ¡¯catfish effect¡¯?¡±


    It was said that when Norwegian fishermen caught sardines, they worried that sardines would suffocate from ack of oxygen. Because of that, they usually put a catfish into the pack of sardines.


    Catfish fed on other fish. After entering the container, they would begin to swim around to find their prey. The sardines would begin to move around due to the shock and avoidance of the catfish; this would solve the problem of sardines not getting enough oxygen from not moving. This so-called ¡®catfish effect¡¯ was often used in enterprise management. The general practice was to exert a sense of crisis in order to stimte employees to start working.


    Tang Kai, ¡°You mean...¡±


    Sun Zinan said, ¡°The old man follows this principle. I heard when he was forty-five years old, he was diagnosed with a serious illness. The condition was very dangerous. My brothers thought he would not make it, so they collectively proposed to have him make a will. They were trying to seize the inheritance while he was still alive. My dad might have been stimted by this and it didn¡¯t take long for him to miraculously recover. He¡¯s probably been aware of this crisis since then. All his children chase after the property, and no one really treats him as a father.¡±


    ¡°But you know what type of person my father is. It¡¯s not too much to say that as long as he¡¯s still alive for another day, he¡¯ll never relinquish power. In order to suppress his four adult children, he went abroad to find a surrogate and asked for a fifth child¡ªI am the ¡®catfish¡¯ in his n.¡±


    ¡°My eldest brother doesn¡¯t recognize the consequences, my second brother is too slick. Sun Ziyan and Sun Ziyi can¡¯t even be mentioned; they¡¯re just a pile of waste bags. He ttered me and reused me so that others could keep themselves driven by a sense of crisis. But Sun Ziyan really had to cross me, so I crossed the old man in order to deal with him. That¡¯s why my dad is so angry.¡±


    Not only did Sun Ying want him to be a catfish, he wanted him to be a catfish who could not disobey its orders.


    He used Sun Zinan to counterbnce his other children, but did not allow Sun Zinan to break away from his control and counterattack without authorization. Tonight he had severely scolded Sun Zinan. But the catfish had rebelled and the sardines had also been torn into pieces. His chessboard had been directly overturned by Sun Zinan. It was unclear how Sun Ying was feeling at the current moment.


    Tang Kai¡¯s jaw dropped as he listened.


    ¡°But you are also his own son,¡± he asked carefully. ¡°Why would he do this to you?¡±


    Sun Zinan smiled wordlessly.


    ¡°Because I¡¯m a ¡®catfish,¡¯¡± he said. ¡°In his eyes, I¡¯m just an employee, not his child.¡±


    No matter how outstanding he was, for Sun Ying, Sun Zinan had never been among his heirs.


    Because there was no upbringing to produce any feelings. Just like the quarrel that had urred tonight, family was just an excuse to push me onto others. In fact, everyone¡¯s heart was clear that Sun Zinan was just an outsider. Only insiders could receive the inheritance.


    ¡°So when I was a child, he was actually very good to me. He gave me the best to eat and wear, gave me the best education. I once thought he really loved me, but then I learned that it wasn¡¯t ¡®fatherly love,¡¯ it was employee motivation.¡± Sun Zinan downed his ss of wine and said tipsily, ¡°I was really dumb before. I even became upset for a long time because of this.¡±


    Even though he was already tipsy, his words were still restrained.


    In fact, it was more than being upset. His depression while abroad was because of this.


    The summer of the year before Sun Zinan went abroad, Sun Ying transferred five percent of his shares to his name. The decision caused an uproar at home. Sun Zinan did not want to be targeted by his brothers, so he hid all day in the small backyard garden to read books. He hid too well. One day, he identally overheard a conversation between Sun Ying and his former secretary.


    The other side had seemed puzzled by this decision and couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°Chairman, by doing this, the little master¡¯s shares are far more than the young master¡¯s. Is this not...wrong?¡±


    Sun Ying had walked slowly in front of him on crutches before suddenly stopping to ask ¡°Do you know what the ¡®catfish effect¡¯ is?¡±


    Along with the summer breeze that brought those words to him, the ten plus years of his life had shattered to pieces.


    He had been neglected, but still stubbornly believed that he was loved. Suddenly one day, he was forced to face the cruel world. After knowing that he had long ago been abandoned, his life felt like a joke. Other than living in this body like a wandering soul, what else could he do?


    If a person lost his foothold from birth, lost his sense of self, what was the meaning of life?


    Tang Kai did not say a word as he reached out and embraced him in his arms.


    The ss in Sun Zinan¡¯s hand shook a bit and he hurriedly steadied it. ¡°Ai, be careful, don¡¯t spill it on your clothes.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be good to you,¡± Tang Kai murmured. ¡°If they don¡¯t care about you, I¡¯ll care about you....You have to remember the good things about this world. You can¡¯t just float away without telling me.¡±


    ¡°Float what, I¡¯m not floating.¡± Sun Zinan buried his head in Tang Kai¡¯s shoulder, hiding his entire face. His tears were absorbed into his clothes.


    He said hoarsely, ¡°You¡¯re here. Where else would I go?¡±


    He had not cried in many years; even the feeling of involuntary tears had be strange.


    ¡°Don¡¯t cry...be good, we don¡¯t have to be sad over scum like this, dear.¡±


    Although Tang Kai could not see it, he could feel the wet marks forming on his shoulder. His heart immediately was set on fire with rage towards Sun Ying¡¯s entire family. He kissed Sun Zinan¡¯s hair as he hugged him with open arms and said solemnly, ¡°You know, catfish are freshwater fish, sardines are saltwater fish. If you put a catfish into a tank with sardines, it will die.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    ¡°The ¡®catfish effect¡¯ theory is simply not in line with thews of nature. It¡¯s just some pseudoscience.¡± Tang Kai said, ¡± Your father was very half-assed when doing this. I am a professional. In the future, please follow Teacher Tang so you won¡¯t get lost.¡±


    ¡°Besides, how can you be a catfish?¡± He added very bluntly, ¡°Catfish are so ugly.¡±


    This way offorting people was too unconventional. Sun Zinan¡¯s tears were choked back.


    He sometimes actually admired Tang Kai¡¯s brain circuits. He approached things at a unique angle and went straight to the point. Although he wasn¡¯t too susceptible to emotional factors, which made him seem a little impersonal, and his words were usually some sand sculpture expressions, the moment he stopped talking nonsense, it was like the clouds had parted to show the sun.


    To be honest, he already felt like it was a lot more bearable because there was someone to apany him at this time.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough, I¡¯m okay now.¡± Sun Zinan got up from Tang Kai¡¯s arms. The corners of his eyes were still slightly red, but the tears had disappeared. ¡°The confession has finished. Thank you Professor Tang for flying with me.¡±


    Tang Kai leaned up and gently kissed the corner of his eyes, then said, ¡°I¡¯ve suddenly realized that you look very nice when you cry.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    He really wanted to split open this old uncle¡¯s head and see what nonsense was brewing inside his brain.


    ¡±I¡¯m not going to bully you.¡± Tang Kai saw his speechless expression andughed. ¡°But in the future, please give me a chance to practice, okay?¡±


    ¡°...¡± Sun Zinan was expressionless. ¡°No thanks. Get up, I¡¯m going to take a shower and go to bed.¡±


    ¡°Taking a shower as soon as you¡¯re done drinking? You can¡¯t, it¡¯s too easy to faint.¡± Tang Kai grabbed at his waist, not letting him go ¡°Either you sit here and sober up, or I will apany you to wash. You choose one.¡±


    Sun Zinan raised an eyebrow. ¡°No way, Professor Tang, do you get drunk from just the bottom of a cup of wine? You really can¡¯t handle...your alcohol, ah?¡±


    After saying that, he quipped, ¡°Oh right, I can¡¯t tell men that they can¡¯t handle it.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    Professor Tang took advantage to turn Sun Zinan around and throw him against the sofa. He firmly pressed him under his body, one hand mping his wrists above his head while the other hand slid dishonestly down along his waist. He gritted his teeth and said, ¡°You don¡¯t recognize me? Then today I¡¯ll have to make you cry as you say ¡®can¡¯t handle it.¡¯¡±

 Chapter 35 - Classic Scenario: The Bathroom

    <h4>Chapter 35 - ssic Scenario: The Bathroom</h4>


    slightly nsfw


    Although his provocative words were loud, they were mostly noise. It wasn¡¯t really a good time tonight to do anything naughty. Neither of them were ready and Sun Zinan was definitely not in the mood. Tang Kai hugged him for a while, making sure that he was almostpletely sober again before reluctantly letting him go take a bath.


    This wasn¡¯t the first time Sun Zinan had showered at Tang Kai¡¯s ce. He lightly turned the shower on. The white fog covered the room and hot water poured over his head onto his shoulders and back. It dispelled the lingering chill around his body. He closed his stinging eyes and slowly let out a long sigh of relief.


    Breaking off his rtionship with his family had not been an impulse. Sun Zinan had been prepared. From the moment he had pitted himself against Sun Ziyan, he knew what he would face. But at this moment, the pain was like a giant stone falling from the sky. He had been ready, but all his limbs had suffered damage and his heart hurt.


    At his worst, he had felt like he was a house with four broken walls. No one wanted to go in, but he was stuck there for the rest of his life.


    Being broken wasn¡¯t terrible. Loneliness was terrible.


    The water vapor dispersed, evaporated by the heat. The bathroom seemed to hold a trace of a wooden incense. It wasn¡¯t the fragrance of shampoo but the scent of the owner of the bathroom. It shrouded in his nose, giving him the sense of speechlesspanionship at this moment.


    Although he knew that his person was outside, Sun Zinan couldn¡¯t help but feel some affinity for this scent. He stretched his hand out from under the water curtain, as if he could gently hold the fragrance and cherish it within the palm of his hand.


    In the same second, there was a buzzing sound, and the bathroom suddenly fell into darkness.


    The overhead lights and LCD panels had all extinguished, but the water was still hot. Sun Zinan froze for a moment and subconsciously reached back to turn the shower off. But because he couldn¡¯t see, he identally knocked off the hand-held shower head.


    The iron shower head made a very loud sound when it fell on the tile. Tang Kai¡¯s voice immediately rang nervously outside. ¡°Little Nan? Stand there and don¡¯t move!¡±


    Sun Zinan had intended to bend over in the dark and pick up the fallen shower head. When he heard this, he actually obediently just stood there.


    After a moment, footsteps approached and Tang Kai opened the bathroom door, using his phone as a shlight in one hand and holding arge bath towel in the other. He came up and wrapped Sun Zinan in the towel.


    Sun Zinan had just adapted to the darkness when his eyes were invaded by the light. He squinted his eyes and tilted his head to ask, ¡°Power outage? Or did the circuit trip?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. Maybe there¡¯s a power test going on in the neighborhood. I was just trying to find you so I didn¡¯t have any time to investigate.¡±


    Tang Kai waited for him toe out of the shower. Sun Zinan stumbled as he stepped haphazardly on his slippers, but didn¡¯t fall. Tang Kai opened his arms and caught him in his embrace.


    He sighed. ¡°I knew you were going to act coquettishly.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve been watching too many TV dramas.¡± Sun Zinan pointed out expressionlessly, ¡°If you hadn¡¯t caught me I still wouldn¡¯t have fallen.¡±


    Tang Kai patted his ass through the bath towel. ¡°Only your words are harsh.¡±


    Sun Zinan¡¯s body was thin and slender. He was very light and easy to hold up, but his body held the hardness and strength of a man. It even pressed against his hand a little ufortably. The water at the tip of his hair dropped on Tang Kai¡¯s bare arm, one after another, light and cold, making his heart itch.


    It wasn¡¯t clear if it was because the bathroom was too hot, or because Tang Kai¡¯s temperature had suddenly risen, but the wooden incense on his body had be more and more obvious, surrounding Sun Zinan like clouds. He keenly felt something against his leg. He didn¡¯t need to lower his head to see a mosaic scene. So he poked at Tang Kai. ¡°Hey, Professor Tang, do you want to solve it along the way? Anyways it¡¯s like this now so might as well do it.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°...¡±


    What the fuck do you mean like this now so might as well do it.


    ¡°I¡ª¡± He took a breath and was about to refuse, but Sun Zinan picked up the bath towel and hastily wiped his hair. He freed up a hand and urged, ¡°Hurry up, take your pants off.¡±


    His tone was not gentle at all. It was exactly the tone someone would use to say ¡®Ugh,e eat.¡¯ Tang Kai almost blurted out ¡®are you giving free food to beggars?¡¯


    Sun Zinan saw that he did not move and thought Professor Tang was feeling embarrassed. He ¡®tsk¡¯d and reached out to undo his belt.


    Tang Kai could not resist anymore, and scooped Sun Zinan up. He strode out of the bathroom and threw him into his soft quilts in the bedroom.


    The casually wrapped towel was immediately cast aside.


    Tang Kai seemed like he had been burned and immediately looked away.


    But the room was now like a cage, trapping both of them there. No matter where he nced, his gaze inevitably noticed the pale, slender body on the bed.


    ¡°Ai.¡± Sun Zinan stretched his feet out and gently kicked him. ¡°At least look at me. Am I that unattractive?¡±


    Tang Kai caught his ankles in his hands and pushed them apart. He bent one of his legs and rested it in the space between his legs. His entire body bent down and covered him as he said, ¡°It¡¯s because you keep teasing me.¡±


    It was reasonable to feel a little danger from being pressed down by a tall, adult man. But Sun Zinan seemed to have been bewitched by the fragrance of his body. Instead of pushing him away, he felt an indescribable sense of security. Heughed lowly and said, ¡°Come then.¡±


    Tang Kai suspended himself above Sun Zinan with the arms that had lifted weights for so many years and lowered his head to kiss him. The butterfly kissesnded from his forehead to his corbone before he gently whispered into his ear, ¡°Do you love me?¡±


    ¡°I...¡±


    His speech was gasped out intermittently. Tang Kai impulsively asked the question that had been hiding in his heart for a long time. But as if he were too afraid to hear the answer, he didn¡¯t wait for Sun Zinan¡¯s answer, and kissed all his words back between his lips and teeth.


    The sudden power outage pushed the entire bedroom into a deeper silence and darkness. Their breathing entangled and even the slightest sound of water was amplified. Sun Zinan closed his eyes and arched his head back. His muscles contracted unconsciously, revealing obvious lines. Finally, at the climax of the buildup of pleasure, he was pushed into the clouds.


    Neither of them spoke nor moved. They hugged in silence in the room, bathed only in moonlight, savoring the shuddering, luscious aftertaste together.


    ¡°Love.¡± Sun Zinan suddenly spoke hoarsely, firmly and candidly. ¡°I love you.¡±


    He was merely answering the question that had been asked just now, but it was as if he had finally found his heart after a long journey and carefully handed it over to Tang Kai.


    Tang Kai grabbed his hand and pressed it against his chest.


    ¡°Do you hear that?¡±


    ¡°En?¡±


    ¡°It said, I love you too.¡±


    A reasonable sex life was good for both physical and mental health.


    Sun Zinan originally thought that this night would be a sleepless night, but exercise before bedtime was very beneficial for soothing his body and mind. Although he was half-suspended between dreams and reality, he still managed to get four hours of sleep.


    The next day, Sun Zinan woke up before five o¡¯clock. The sky outside was still dark and there was ayer of frost on the window. He nced to the side at Tang Kai, who was buried in his pillow and still sleeping deeply. He carefully moved his arm away and lightly got out of bed.


    Although they didn¡¯t reach thest stepst night, there had been no clothes to hide him from Tang Kai dementedly covering his entire body in deep and shallow marks. It was like he had opened a buffet party with mosquitos.


    Sun Zinan put on his pajamas and walked out of the bedroom with his phone.


    After he left yesterday, only Sun Ziyuan had sent him a few WeChat messages telling him to not act impulsively andmunicate well instead. The others did not make any moves. Sun Zinan guessed that they didn¡¯t sleep well after he tossed them about. For some reason, he actually felt a little happy.


    The heavy shackles that had been pressed against his shoulders over the years had finally been freed by his own hands. Maybe his life had long been confined to a craggy, deformed cliff, but there is still a long way to go. He would sprout buds again and grow freely.


    At six thirty in the morning, Tang Kai blinked sleepily as he entered the kitchen and clung onto Sun Zinan like a soulless ko. He moaned and whined, ¡°Darling are you still going to work today?¡±


    Sun Zinan turned his head and received a lemon and mint-vored good morning kiss. He patted Tang Kai¡¯s waist and replied, ¡°There¡¯s still work to be done. I¡¯m sending a resignation email today.¡±


    Tang Kai said, ¡°Then I¡¯ll drive you to work.¡±


    Sun Zinanughed. ¡°You¡¯ll be stuck on the road for four hours. It¡¯ll take up your entire morning.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care, I want to drive you.¡± Tang Kai said, ¡°In the future when you don¡¯t have a job, I won¡¯t be able to drive my husband to work even if I wanted to. I have to grasp this opportunity and enjoy it.¡±


    ¡°Fine.¡± Sun Zinan had been pestered to the point of being unable to fight back. ¡°Your enjoyment wastes too much oil. Our family won¡¯t be able to survive next month.¡±


    Tang Kai really liked to hear him say ¡°we¡± and ¡°our family.¡± It satisfied his desire for exclusivity.


    To put it more darkly, he should actually thank the Sun family for working together to push Sun Zinan to his side. Since then, his apartment had be a harbor for the two of them. Sun Zinan would not amodate anyone else in his heart; they only belonged to each other.


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter. I can support you.¡±


    ¡°ording topany¡¯s regtions, I have to give at least a week¡¯s notice before resigning. I can¡¯t just leave after saying I¡¯ll leave.¡±


    Sun Zinan¡¯s situation was special; he had to report to the group. If nothing else happened, he had to go exin to the group in person. But those procedures could not hinder his enthusiasm to resign. Sun Zinan spent the morning making a simple summary of his work and got ready to have a meeting in the afternoon to hand over his position. Along the way, he also dealt with the rest of the issue with Jin Ke Real Estate.


    Liu Cheng sent him his resignation as early as the day of the ident. Sun Zinan understood that he was an old employee and left him some face. He didn¡¯t pursue his responsibility and directly approved the resignation. His daughter¡¯s disease was a hole that needed to be filled with money. Sun Zinan emotionally understood his plight, but as the victim party, he couldn¡¯t agree with his self-interested approach.


    Wang Geng and Yu Liang¡¯s injuries had been minor. They were mostly fine after a week and had already returned to a normal working schedule for some time. Sun Zinan had been clear to Wang Geng about his resignation, but Yu Liang did not know. He looked like he had been struck by lightning after hearing the news, and was stunned for a few seconds before tears suddenly gushed out.


    ¡°Why?¡±


    Sun Zinan did not expect this child to have such affectionate feelings for him. He was a little overwhelmed as heforted, ¡°Things change at work. This is very normal. Don¡¯t cry, it¡¯s not like you can¡¯t see me in the future.¡±


    ¡°Is it because of the Jin Yuan situation?¡± Yu Liang asked sobbingly, ¡°We haven¡¯t been deceived or scammed, why are you resigning?¡±


    ¡±Uh...¡± Sun Zinan frantically winked at Wang Geng, hinting that he should take over inforting this chronic crier.


    Yu Liang had confessed to him after thest incident that he had known what was going on. Sun Zinan was very moved when he heard about it. He also knew that it was not easy for him to summon up the courage to make such a decision. However, like the dangerous reversal on the roof, not all good beginnings had perfect endings.


    All gifts given by fate were marked with their own prices.


    Last time, fate made a joke out of him, but this time, reality mercilessly took away his tears.

 Chapter 36 - Classic Scenario: Hero Saves the Beauty

    <h4>Chapter 36 - ssic Scenario: Hero Saves the Beauty</h4>


    Yu Liang cried very miserably and in disappointment. Even Wang Geng and Sun Zinan felt faintly sorrowful. But this was how the world worked. One had to experience the ups and downs of life, involuntariness and powerlessness, in order to grow an armor strong enough to fight against the harsh world.


    He couldn¡¯t exin to Yu Liang too much about the issues with his family, but he also didn¡¯t know how tofort people. He squeezed out two sentences of advice like squeezing thest bits of toothpaste out of its tube and hurriedly let Wang Geng drag Yu Liang away.


    Sun Zinan stood in front of the windows in his office, staring at the floor beneath his feet. From a tatteredpany selling healthcare to a biotechnology enterprise, this small, brokenpany hade back to life in his hands. Sun Zinan didn¡¯t dare say how much he had contributed to it; after all, this had been a mutual achievement against adversity his colleagues had worked on together. Yu Liang wasn¡¯t the only one who felt that way.


    But he still had to stand up straight and continue moving forward in order to make sure what he was abandoning would not be a memory he would regret.


    Seeing that it was near the end of the year anyways, there wasn¡¯t much work left to do. Sun Zinan simply broke the lease on his original apartment and moved in with Tang Kai.


    Professor Tang seemed to enjoy this early entry into the newlywed mode of cohabitation. When he was free, he would pick Sun Zinan up from work. The two of them would go to the nearby market to buy a few groceries, putting their hands in each other¡¯s pockets, affectionately walking home hand-in-hand in the middle of the cold winter night.


    Today as usual, Tang Kai drove to the front of his apartment building. Theirmunity was rtively old and had no parking spaces. Everyone had to find somewhere to park outside.


    Tang Kai parked and was about to pull the key out when Sun Zinan suddenly raised his hand and held him down. ¡°Wait, aren¡¯t those peopleing over here?¡±


    It became dark early in winter. It was only just after six o¡¯clock but the sky was already dark and their vision wasn¡¯t clear. There were no street lights in the neighborhood. Tang Kai turned the car¡¯s headlights on and saw four burly men walking towards their direction. Their hands seemed to be carrying something long but he couldn¡¯t tell if they were carrying steel weapons.


    ¡°Coming for us?¡± Tang Kai untied his seat belt and said to Sun Zinan, ¡°I¡¯ll go out and take a look, stay in the car and don¡¯t move.¡±


    ¡°No, you can¡¯t!¡±


    Sun Zinan grabbed at his sleeve, his expression frosting over. ¡°What if it¡¯s someoneing for revenge? Don¡¯t take this as a joke¡ª¡±


    He hadn¡¯t even finished his words before a brick flew over and hit the windshield, leaving a cobweb-like crack on the upper left corner of the window.


    They wereing for them.


    Tang Kai resolutely pushed his hand away and said deeply, ¡°Call the police. Don¡¯t worry, your husband can beat five of these with one hand. Stay here obediently and don¡¯te out. I won¡¯t be able to protect you otherwise.¡±


    After that, without waiting for Sun Zinan¡¯s reaction, he quickly opened the door and went out, then locked Sun Zinan in the car.


    Sun Zinan went crazy, pounding at the car door. ¡°Tang Kai! Get your ass back here!¡±


    Tang Kai pretended he didn¡¯t hear him. He cracked his hands and looked at the big men surrounding them. He smiled. ¡°Who are you looking for, brothers?¡±


    The leader¡¯s voice was thick and rough. He said rudely, ¡°Don¡¯t block our way, go to the side.¡±


    ¡±My wife is sitting in the car,¡° Tang Kai smiled unconcernedly. ¡°If you want to look for my wife, you have to ask for my consent&#k2014;¡±


    Before he finished speaking, the sound of the wind came first. His fist hit the left side of the man¡¯s face.


    In the dark, the muffled sound of flesh colliding was horrifying.


    He didn¡¯t even make a greeting before starting. The other three froze for two seconds. Before they could even react, Tang Kai¡¯s foot had already reached another person¡¯s chest.


    He sent two of them flying. Just as he punched the third person in the stomach, the air howled behind him and a steel pipe went down at the back of his head. Tang Kai tilted his head, but because he didn¡¯t have enough time to dodge, his sses were scraped off and fell to the ground, leaving behind a thin cut on his right cheek.


    As he had a conversation with the operator in the car, Sun Zinan felt like he was being strangled, his heartbeat reaching 150 beats per minute.


    Tang Kai felt the tingling pain at the same time he raised his hand to grab the man¡¯s swinging arm. He pressed down on his acupuncture point and the steel pipe ttered to the ground. He clucked his tongue and didn¡¯t let go of the man¡¯s arm. The man stumbled and Tang Kai cut in front of him to throw him over his shoulder into the nearby trash bin.


    He straightened his waist and moved his neck and shoulders coldly, then hooked his fingers at the other two surrounding him. ¡°Come at me together.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    He hadn¡¯t been joking when he said he could take on five with one hand?


    Professor Tang looked polite and schrly, but he had grown up in a military neighborhood after all. In order to strengthen his physical fitness, he had learned fighting and boxing. Later on, he also tried Taekwondo out of interest. He might not have been good enough topete, but it was more than enough to deal with a few hooligans.


    By the time the police and security arrived, Tang Kai had piled the four people into the trash bin. The steel pipe had been thrown aside and he only used a branch he had broken off a nearby tree to beat anyone who tried to escape. The branch looked like a teacher¡¯s pointer, making him look even more like a professor.


    After the hooligans were collectively taken to the police station, Tang Kai confirmed that they were safe before opening the door to release Sun Zinan.


    Because it had been a vicious brawl, both of them had to go to the police station to make a statement. Sun Zinan was truly angry this time. His expression was like a volcano brewing before an explosion, but because they were in public, he still left him some face. Tang Kai attempted to talk to him and was rejected several times. He watched Sun Zinan¡¯s expression, his heart trembling, thinking to himself that he was screwed. Coaxing him with his beauty wouldn¡¯t work this time.


    His thoughts churned and he remembered that he had a small wound on his face. He reached out and touched it, then drew in a cold breath.


    Sun Zinan heard this movement, and couldn¡¯t keep his expression stiff anymore as he immediately asked: ¡°What happened? Where did you get hurt?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. It¡¯s just a small injury. Nothing¡¯s broken.¡±


    Selling this miserable trick really had worked. Tang Kai immediately grabbed his hand and said softly, ¡°Darling, Nan Nan, don¡¯t be angry.¡±


    Sun Zinan red at him and said coolly, ¡°Professor Tang doesn¡¯t fear anything and can beat five hooligans with one hand. What¡¯s the use of my anger?¡±


    ¡°I care.¡± Tang Kai sped their palms together and while no one else was paying attention, leaned over and kissed his ear. ¡°Hooligans aren¡¯t scary, but I¡¯m scared of you ignoring me.¡±


    Sun Zinan stared at him for a moment before finally lowering his gaze. He sighed as he said, ¡°I don¡¯t me you.¡±


    He sighed deeply into the dead of the deep winter. He spoke slowly, trying to pull himself out of fear and worry that threatened to make him lose his mind.


    ¡°Acting heroic to save the damsel in distress should be rewarded, but not rmended.¡± He carefully dusted off Tang Kai¡¯s sleeves and walked side by side with him. ¡°Your life is your own and you have to cherish it. Besides...if anything happens to you, how can I live?¡±


    Sometimes, Tang Kai felt like Sun Zinan was very reasonable and understood things to the point of repression. He was the model of strict self-discipline and leniency towards others. He often corrected his own biases with intellectual reasoning. Just like now, even though he was obviously not very happy, in order to not let Tang Kai feel ignored, he forcibly repressed his emotions and even affirmed Tang Kai¡¯s actions.


    However, Tang Kai was also very contradictory. On one hand, he felt sorry for Sun Zinan and wanted him to feel better. On the other hand, he felt that he had done nothing wrong.


    So he could only wrap his arm around Sun Zinan¡¯s shoulders and exim, ¡°How are you so obedient?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°Get out.¡±


    ¡°I know my limits. I¡¯m not just running up to deliver myself to them.¡± Tang Kai said seriously, ¡± I know you worry for me, but you need to trust me sometimes too. I can protect you, okay?¡±


    Sun Zinan¡¯s anger had almost dissipated. It might have been that he had been pestered too much. He dragged out, ¡°Okay, I know¡ªput your hands away, don¡¯t wrap your arms around me, walk properly.¡±


    The two of them thought they were repressing their voices but their conversation was actually very obvious. The police officer in front of them eavesdropped intently and covered his mouth as he smiled, his ears turning red. The other police officer red at him.


    In the police station.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know those four, I¡¯ve never seen them before.¡± Tang Kai told the police, ¡°We had just parked the car when the four of them came over with a brick and a steel pipe. They first hit my car. After I came out they started fighting me. I suspect these four people nned on following us and chose toe after us today after targeting the district. They obviously came prepared. The target wasn¡¯t just me, it was also my lover.¡±


    The police had to remind him that the facts could not be mixed with analysis and reasoning. Professor Tang¡¯s speech skills were too strong and easily led the audience to his own ideas.


    ¡°...Correct, I fought back. I¡¯ve practiced a little martial arts before and have some proficiency in it. I think it should be within the scope of self-defense, I didn¡¯t use the steel pipe, only the branch.¡±


    The police officers who had seen the scene pursed their lips and thought to themselves, with thatbat skill, if he had really used the steel pipe, they would be piecing the hooligans together from the trash.


    ¡°Okay, there are no other issues. After confirming, please sign under the transcript. Thank you for your cooperation.¡±


    A police officer sent them out. ¡°In addition, please keep your phone on. If there is anything else we need for the investigation, we will contact you again.¡±


    Tang Kai nodded at him. ¡°Thank you, we¡¯ve troubled you.¡±


    Sun Zinan had sat in the car the entire time and did not participate in the fight. He was at most just a witness, so he hade out earlier than Tang Kai and was waiting for him in the hallway outside.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± As the two of them left, the police officer withdrew his gaze and told his superior sitting next to him, ¡°This little district is hiding a crouching tiger and hidden dragon ah, those hooligans met an expert.¡±


    ¡°Hehe, more than that.¡± His superior lit up a cigarette next to him and said deeply, ¡°They don¡¯t even know who they¡¯ve provoked. This is running to our district, carryingnterns to go to the bathroom.¡±


    ¡°Ah?¡±


    ¡°To find shit.¡±


    The police officer, ¡°...How vulgar.¡±


    ¡°Your neighborhood is quite close to the police station.¡± Sun Zinan said as he walked, ¡°It went pretty quickly.¡±


    ¡°Yes, the security is very good.¡± Tang Kai said, ¡°Do you know why?¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°Because most of the residents in this district are retired faculty. I heard that a few years ago, there were a criminals who had be stupid after watching too many movies. They specifically came over to kidnap a professor from the chemical engineering department and almost seeded. Since then, the police station in the district has been very strict. In the event of personal injury cases, everyone will be severely interrogated.¡±


    Sun Zinan once again thought of the fear of being questioned about wireless systems and pressurized machinery.


    How impressive.


    Just then, someone passed by. Tang Kai¡¯s voice stopped and he moved closer to his ear. He asked almost silently, ¡°Do you think Sun Ziyan can run this time?¡±

 Chapter 37 - Do You Have Any Business With Me?

    <h4>Chapter 37 - Do You Have Any Business With Me?</h4>


    cw: somewhat explicit violence


    Sun Zinan turned his head away in difort, dodging the tingling itch of Tang Kai¡¯s voice against his ear as he asked, ¡°How did you conclude that this was his doing?¡±


    ¡°The goal of the four men was clear. They came for you.¡± Tang Kai said, ¡°I can¡¯t think of anyone other than Sun Ziyan who would do such a stupid thing.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true.¡± Sun Zinan said a little unreasonably, ¡°No matter who did it, just take it as his doing. It¡¯s not like he¡¯s family. If I want to scold him no one can stop me.¡±


    Tang Kai suddenly said, ¡°Right, didn¡¯t you just say you wanted to give me a reward?¡±


    ¡°Did I say that? When?¡± Sun Zinan yed dumb. ¡°I don¡¯t recall.¡±


    ¡°...¡± Tang Kai said angrily, ¡°You lying pig trotter!¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°Hahahaha.¡±


    ¡°Of course, Professor Tang, how could I dare forget the hero of the battle against the hooligans? Don¡¯t sit there with a gloomy face, who are you showing it to?¡± Sun Zinan had teased him enough and poked Tang Kai¡¯s cheek. ¡°Tell me, what do you want?¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°Will you agree to anything I ask for?¡±


    ¡°What do you want?¡± Sun Zinan looked at him vigntly. ¡°Tang Kai, if you dare do lewd things in public I¡¯ll¡ª¡±


    Tang Kai was curious. ¡°You¡¯ll what?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll...¡± Sun Zinan choked a bit and finally couldn¡¯t helpughing. ¡°I quit my job and ended my lease. I¡¯m going to eat and drink your food. If you really want to do something to me, I have no choice but to follow you.¡±


    Tang Kai¡¯s eyes lit up but he forced himself to be serious. He pretended to say solemnly, ¡°I don¡¯t think about these things all day, but don¡¯t go back on the words you just said.¡±


    Sun Zinan was slightly surprised. ¡°What were you thinking of?¡±


    ¡°How about giving me the opportunity to deal with that dog Sun Ziyan?¡± Tang Kai said, ¡°I¡¯ve been suppressing myself for too long. Of course, if you want to enjoy it on your own, I¡¯ll give him an extra send-off.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    ¡°Law-abiding citizen, en?¡± He looked at Tang Kai. ¡°You¡¯re the nation¡¯s professor, how could you still think of using corporal punishments.¡±


    Tang Kai touched his chin and thought for a moment. ¡°I¡¯m teaching ording to my talents.¡±


    ¡°When educated people be hooligans, it¡¯s quite scary.¡± Sun Zinan sighed and said, ¡°Then I¡¯ll leave it to you?¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Tang Kai grabbed his hand and put it in his pocket. ¡°He broke the front windshield of my car. If I don¡¯t teach him a lesson, I¡¯ll hate him forever.¡±


    At this moment, he didn¡¯t have a single hint of a schrly temperament. His sses were off, showing his sharp and beautiful eyes. It was an understatement to call his expression ruthless; he looked like a viin in a ck and white movie, his features making people shiver in fear while thinking ¡®wow, how handsome¡¯ in their hearts.


    Sun Zinan hooked his fingers and scratched at his palm. ¡°Take it easy, don¡¯t kill anyone.¡±


    Tang Kai tilted his head and gave him a look that said ¡®I know my limits.¡¯


    ¡®Deep Blue¡¯ was one of the most high-end clubs in S City. It wasn¡¯t open to the public and only for regr customers. New customers had to join through the introductions of old members. Apparently the boss was very powerful and was not afraid of investigations. He had a lot of security measures, so it was a good ce for rich people to enjoy themselves.


    These days, Sun Ziyan was in a very bad mood. Because Sun Zinan had run away from home, Sun Ying had scolded him without leaving him any face. Following that, Hongcheng Real Estate¡¯s funds had been checked, and the deficit was astounding. Sun Ying was so angry he almost had a heart attack. He suspended him in rage and had him go back home to reflect.


    Of course, he couldn¡¯t be forced to stay home, but Sun Ziyan had recently lost a lot of his power. No one wanted to go out and drink with him. So he came to ¡®Deep Blue¡¯ alone, opened up a few bottles of wine, and ordered two women to apany the wine.


    He wasn¡¯t very interested today, and had the two women y some unsightly games. He himself drank from the bottle until he felt bloated. He staggered to his feet and went to the bathroom, but for some reason, there was no bathroom inside. Sun Ziyan went out the door and went towards the public bathroom.


    He stood in front of the urinal. Because he had drunk too much, his eyes were blurry and his hands trembled. Much to his annoyance, he trembled so much he couldn¡¯t even open his belt buckle.


    Suddenly, a hand stretched out behind him and hit the side of his neck. Sun Ziyan fell gently down without a sound.


    The person caught him, but staggered forward due to his weight. He scolded, ¡°It¡¯s fucking heavy.¡±


    He fumbled around Sun Ziyan¡¯s body and took his mobile phone and car keys, then walked out of the bathroom with the unconscious man.


    The elevator wasn¡¯t far away. He pressed the button for the second floor. As he waited, a waiter passed by. Seeing the unfamiliar face, he immediately became vignt and asked, ¡°Sir, please stay and show me your membership certificate.¡±


    The man was wearing gray, athletic clothing. He was of a medium build, wearing a cap, and had an ordinary appearance. When he heard this he raised the car keys and said innocently, ¡°I¡¯m the driver Mr. Sun called for. He drank too much, so he wants me toe pick him up.¡±


    The waiter immediately contacted the front desk through the walkie-talkie. Only when they had confirmed that a Mr. Sun had contacted them for a driver did the waiter rx his guard. He looked over at the driver and said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯ve troubled you.¡±


    The man smiled at him, then strenuously moved Sun Ziyan into the elevator and went downstairs.


    Sun Ziyan woke up in a whirl of darkness. His alcohol-soaked brain had lost all judgement; he only felt that his entire body was cold and in pain. When he tried to move his hands and feet, he realized he was being grabbed by his back cor, being dragged on the ground.


    Revenge? Or kidnapping?


    A cold sweat covered his back and the alcohol instantly evaporated from his pores. Sun Ziyan tried to shout, but his mouth was stuffed with rags and his head was covered with an opaque ck bag. He could neither make a sound nor see where he was going. An unprecedented fear grabbed at his heart and made him tremble.


    Sun Ziyan struggled like crazy. ¡°Wuuuuuuu!¡±


    The person threw him against the wall. Sun Ziyan¡¯s head fell against the ground and he wriggled desperately, attempting to run. Immediately, a heavy kicknded on his leg and a voice said sinisterly, ¡°Did I let you run?¡±


    Sun Ziyan was so scared tears and snot flew down his face. He was as stiff as a stone and didn¡¯t dare make any movements. He could only whine desperately, trying to convey goodwill to his kidnapper. He didn¡¯t care whether they wanted money or anything else.


    The man did not give him a chance to speak. A cold stick poked at his head as he asked, ¡°Boss Sun, do you know why you¡¯re being beaten?¡±


    Sun Ziyan shook his head desperately.


    ¡°Because you have done so many bad things that God himself can¡¯t even watch anymore.¡± The man said hoarsely, ¡°When you drink and eat meat, do you ever think about those who have been cornered by you? 100,000 dors isn¡¯t even enough for you to open two bottles of wine. Yet you think that¡¯s enough for the life of one person.¡±


    He did not give Sun Ziyan the opportunity to speak, nor the ability to justify or talk about conditions. He didn¡¯t listen to anything; it was clear that he was just here to seek revenge.


    At this moment, all the hical things he had done shed through Sun Ziyan¡¯s mind¡ªbut there were too many and he had never really thought of them before. Who could have thought that those ordinary people, who could be pressed to the ground with one finger, would dare ambush and attack him in a ce like ¡®Deep Blue¡¯?


    With two solid thunks, a blunt object struck his bones and his shins exploded in pain. Sun Ziyan screamed but couldn¡¯t bypass the gags stuffed in his mouth. His entire body huddled on the ground, shrinking back.


    As he panicked and attempted to dodge, there was another muffled sound, and the pipe fell on his right forearm. The man kicked him in the waist and knocked him back against the wall. Pain and fear made him cry unbearably. He even began knocking his head against the ground, as if kowtowing for mercy.


    The man crouched down and leaned close to him ¡°This isn¡¯t over, how about opening a slit for you on your head?¡±


    Sun Ziyan howled crazily, his chubby body tumbling back and forth on the ground, like a small flying insect trapped in a web; no matter how he fluttered his wings, he could not break free from his fate of imminent death.


    The moment the cold, hard object touched his head, Sun Ziyan was finally scared to the extreme. He could not make a single sound as he convulsed, his lower body covered in a pool of spreading wetness. He fainted on the spot.


    The man smiled impatiently, but the pipe in his hand did not knock down and instead poked at his head. This bird-brained boss had even wet himself in fear.


    He took a picture of Sun Ziyan, who had fallen against the wall, then sent it on his phone.


    While he waited for the other side to reply, he untied the unconscious Sun Ziyan, took off the bag covering his face, moved him to the car, then threw the key into the car through the window.


    The scene had been cleaned up. Even if others passed by, no one would be able to tell what had just happened.


    His phone buzzed; the WeChat reply hade.


    The man took off his gloves and slowly typed back a ¡®if you are satisfied with my services, please give a five-star rating.¡¯ He dragged out a small electric scooter out of the corner of the garage and quickly disappeared into the night.


    The next day, Sun Zinan officially resigned from Hongsen Biotechnology. Wang Geng took over as the new president. At noon he had a meal with a few colleagues and received a number of wishes and tears. He idled about in the afternoon with nothing to do, so he went to the nearby supermarket.


    When he was throwing cabbage into the shopping cart, he suddenly received a phone call from Sun Ziyuan.


    He looked tiredly at the caller ID, thought about it, but still picked it up.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need any loans, no test prep, no double-eyelid surgery, and I didn¡¯t order takeout. Do you have any business with me?¡±


    Sun Ziyuan, ¡°...¡±


    He said helplessly, ¡°Zinan, it¡¯s me.¡± Sun Zinan reached out to pick up a handful of celery, remembered that Tang Kai that picky eater didn¡¯t eat it, and put it back before casually saying, ¡°Oh, Director Sun, what can I do for you?¡±


    Sun Ziyuan didn¡¯t pick at his provoking tone and directly asked, ¡°Third Eldest was beaten up yesterday and sent to the hospital. Does this have anything to do with you?¡±

 Chapter 38 - Birthday Present

    <h4>Chapter 38 - Birthday Present</h4>


    slightly nsfw again


    Sun Zinan¡¯s first reaction was that Tang Kai didn¡¯t hold himself back when taking care of his business. The hooligans hadn¡¯t evene out of jail yet and Sun Ziyan was already in the hospital. This was really too efficient.


    ¡°Congrattions,¡± Sun Zinan said. ¡°Who did this? I have to make him a medal.¡±


    Sun Ziyuan was provoked into a sigh. He admonished, ¡°Zinan, don¡¯t act like a child. I¡¯m not using you of anything, I just wanted to ask.¡±


    ¡°Your family is really carved out of the same mold.¡± Sun Zinan replied, ¡°Once something happens you all think of me first. What, was I hired by your family to be a scapegoat?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant.¡± Sun Ziyuan sighed, ¡°Third Eldest¡¯s injuries are very severe. He won¡¯t say anything when we ask him and won¡¯t report it to the police. Dad wants me to find someone to investigate. The two of you fought so muchst time. Brother is afraid...afraid you won¡¯t be happy hearing this?¡±


    ¡°Yes, you¡¯re right, I wasn¡¯t happy.¡± Sun Zinan sneered, ¡°But after hearing this good news, I¡¯m happy now.¡±


    Sun Ziyuan didn¡¯t receive a single phrase of affirmation, but looking at Sun Zinan¡¯s attitude, it seemed like he really had nothing to do with this matter. He asked doubtfully, ¡°It really wasn¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°You can check it yourself if you don¡¯t believe it, don¡¯t talk to me like I¡¯m some criminal.¡± Sun Zinan said impatiently, ¡°I don¡¯t even have time to pay attention to him. Even if I did beat him up, doesn¡¯t he deserve a beating? Director Sun, if you have time to call me, then you should use that time to go to the police station and make an inquiry. See if your precious baby brother has been hiring some hooligans to harm others. Don¡¯t go directly to the hospital and think he¡¯s been horribly wronged.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean? You say he hired people...¡±


    Before Sun Ziyuan finished his words, Sun Zinan hung up on him. He might as well cken his own reputation.


    His rtionship with Sun Ziyuan was actually okay, but in the environment of the Sun family, everyone was wary of each other. Sometimes Sun Zinan felt like he had to aim a gun every time he gave him news; it was a very tiring feeling. Sun Ziyuan¡¯s temperament was also too soft. He was held harshly in ce by Sun Ying; it was unclear if he was ever going to be able to seed. Now that Sun Zinan had made up his mind to break away from the Sun family, he was even more reluctant to care about him. If Sun Ziyuan didn¡¯t suffer a little, he wouldn¡¯t know who had carried him in the past.


    Christmas was approaching. The supermarket had ced arge Christmas tree and cheerful, jingling music yed on repeat. After buying a few groceries, Sun Zinan went to the checkout counter. He happened to see the sex products on the shelf next to him. He didn¡¯t know what he thought of but suddenly chuckled to himself, and casually picked up a box of condoms and water-soluble lubricant to give to the cashier.


    That night when Tang Kai came home from work, dinner was not yet ready. Sun Zinan gave him a pig-shaped red bean bun to pad his stomach. In the busy, chaotic kitchen, he asked, ¡°Did you find people to beat Sun Ziyan yesterday?¡±


    Tang Kai bit off half the pig¡¯s head. ¡°To be precise, it was the day before yesterday. How did you find out?¡±


    ¡°Sun Ziyuan called me and asked if I did it,¡± Sun Zinan said. ¡°I heard Sun Ziyan was hospitalized and doesn¡¯t dare call the police.¡±


    ¡°Hitman Google, it¡¯s a very useful delivery app. If you think it¡¯s good I¡¯ll give a good rating?¡± Tang Kai said, ¡°I heard that a five-star hitman can get an extra five percentmission.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    ¡°Hahahaha I¡¯m not teasing you, it¡¯s true.¡± Tang Kai ate the pig bun and said vaguely, ¡°It¡¯s a small group created by a friend I know. They have private contact with the Deep Blue staff and had the front desk help get Sun Ziyan out. I have a picture, do you want to see it?¡±


    ¡°No no no, no need.¡± Sun Zinan said, ¡°Looking at his face makes me lose my appetite. We still need to eat dinner.¡±


    Tang Kai helped him bring the dish to the table as he casually said. ¡°Rest assured, I had the people say to Sun Ziyan that opening two bottles of wine was the price of a human life to scare him. So you see, he doesn¡¯t dare call the police. If the police pulled out all the horrible things he¡¯s done, it¡¯ll be a huge problem.¡±


    Sun Zinan understood immediately. ¡°Oh, I see. Killing someone with a borrowed knife.¡±


    ¡°I think...Old Sun and Sun Ziyuan both know what he has done. So that¡¯s why I asked you directly.¡± Tang Kai said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, just let them investigate. They won¡¯t be able to find anything.¡±


    Sun Zinan made an ¡°en¡± sound, and gave him a pair of chopsticks. ¡°Eat.¡±


    ¡°Wait, I have something for you.¡±


    He often brought little things to Sun Zinan, whatever random objects he found on the way. Sometimes, it was sugar roasted chestnuts from a street stall, sometimes it was a particrly ugly little doll.


    This time, Tang Kai took out a gym membership card from the side of his bag. Sun Zinan looked at it like it was a monster, pinching at a corner and asking, ¡°What is this thing?¡±


    ¡°Gym membership,¡± said Tang Kai. ¡°For the gym we went tost time. The boss specially sent me two ten percent discounts on the annual card. He wees you toe often.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°Why?¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°Apparently since thest time you showed up, the number of customers has increased significantly.¡±


    ¡°...¡± Sun Zinan¡¯s heart was very resistant to this, but it wasn¡¯t good to say it out loud in order to not reject Tang Kai¡¯s good intentions.


    So he rolled his eyes and pretended he didn¡¯t understand. ¡°What does that mean. The boss thinks the little students areing specifically to see me?¡±


    Tang Kai said righteously, ¡°To see the two of us.¡±


    ¡°Oh...¡± Sun Zinan dragged his voice. ¡°So we can only go to the gym together? If I go by myself someday, I hope a certain someone won¡¯t cry.¡±


    Tang Kai¡¯s heart rang in rm, but his mouth firmly denied it. ¡°I have not!¡±


    ¡±If you haven¡¯t then you haven¡¯t.¡± Sun Zinan said with a smile, ¡°What are you so nervous about?¡±


    Tang Kai huffily faced the window.


    This scene had an inexplicable sense of familiarity. From the beginning to now, Tang Kai¡¯s lofty image had already copsed into ashes, but Sun Zinan¡¯s teasing tune had not changed at all.


    However, he had to admit, whatever pot whatever pot lid, Tang Kai could really eat it.


    Sun Zinan curled up the corner of his mouth, leisurely picking up his soup bowl. To hide the reddening tips of his ears, he drank half a bowl of his bamboo shoot and shrimp meatball soup.


    Now that there was nothing stopping him, did that mean he could go deeper into this intimate rtionship, to personally build himself a small family that belonged only to him?


    Tang Kai¡¯s birthday happened to be on Christmas day. Although it was still a workday, Sun Zinan was leisurely staying at home. He had plenty of time to finally treat him well.


    He began with a bowl of longevity noodles in the morning. It was followed by a love bento delivery at noon, then a candlelight and rose-covered dinner after he opened the door when he got home from work that evening. Tang Kai had been fed all day by Sun Zinan to satisfaction; he was in an extremely good mood.


    Because of this, he was looking more and more forward to Sun Zinan¡¯s birthday gift. Before going to work that morning, he had seen a square box in the corner of the wardrobe. The package was quite exquisite; Sun Zinan had presumably prepared it early and was just waiting for dinner to give him the biggest surprise.


    He habitually reasoned that ording to Sun Zinan¡¯s consistent style, it might be an expensive wallet, sses, or watch...could it be a car key?


    But Sun Zinan was very calm. At nine o¡¯clock in the evening, he went to take a shower and get ready for bed without mentioning anything. Tang Kai had been absent-minded all night. He wondered as he paid attention to the movement in the bathroom, unconsciously poking about at his iPad. For the first time, he experienced what it felt like to be a bad student staring at a book. Not a single word absorbed into his mind.


    For some reason, Sun Zinan spent an extra long time in his shower today. After he dried his hair and walked out of the bedroom in a bathrobe, Tang Kai immediately looked up at him sensitively. ¡°Did you finish washing up?¡±


    ¡°En.¡±


    Sun Zinan opened the wardrobe and bent over to take out Tang Kai¡¯s long-awaited gift box. He smiled and handed it to him. ¡°Here, your birthday gift.¡±


    Tang Kai was stunned by his expression; he couldn¡¯t understand what it meant.


    He set the iPad down and sat up cross-legged like a child. He opened it in puzzlement and looked down. His gaze was immediately stuck to the two things inside.


    New unopened condoms and lubricant.


    ¡°This...¡±


    He was shocked to the point of being dizzy and briefly lost the ability to organizenguage. He didn¡¯t dare to believe it yet was overjoyed at the same time, turning into a faulty, repeating machine. He stared at Sun Zinan and stammered as he asked, ¡°This...this product...are, are you implying...¡±


    Sun Zinan ced his knee on the bed. The bathrobe neckline was too open. In a condescending posture, he pinched Tang Kai¡¯s chin and scratched at it twice like he was petting a cat. Heughedzily. ¡°It¡¯s exactly what you think.¡±


    Tang Kai held him by the waist and went down on the bed under his push. He looked up and exchanged a sweet, soft long kiss with him.


    ¡°It¡¯s too sudden, I feel like I¡¯m dreaming...¡±


    His empty hand gently fiddled with the sensitive and delicate skin behind Sun Zinan¡¯s ear, then yed with his soft earlobe. His eyes held a hint of a smile, filled with a burning brilliance. ¡°We have to agree first that since you gave this gift to me, you can¡¯t take it back.¡±


    ¡°What nonsense are you saying.¡± Sun Zinan¡¯s eyes were zed over with enthusiasm. He bent his head to peck at the corners of his eyes and spoke with a dignified air, but his tone was light. ¡°Whatever I give you is yours.¡±


    Tang Kai was deeply moved, and his heart was full of tenderness. As soon as he was about to kiss him, he heard Sun Zinan add, ¡°Besides, you can¡¯t still be a virgin at thirty. That¡¯s too miserable.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°...¡±


    The angered virgin turned over and pressed Sun Zinan into the quilt. He bit him on the mouth as a punishment. At the same time, he tickled him harshly. He repressed his voice and said, ¡°You talk like you¡¯re not a virgin either, eh?¡±


    Sun Zinany on his back, tickled by his touches,ughing until his entire body curled up. ¡°Stop talking so much, hurry up, you¡¯ll really be an old virgin after midnight...¡±


    The bright bedroom lights blinded his eyes. He lifted his foot and kicked at Tang Kai¡¯s calf. ¡°Turn off the lights.¡±


    Tang Kai picked up the gift box and threw it. It hit the switch on the wall with a bang.


    One switch closed while another turned on.


    The bedroom was washed in darkness. Only the dim moonlight through the ss window reflected the two figures intertwined on the bed.


    Tang Kai had been looking forward to his birthday gift for a long time, but this had be a very special day in his life. He tore the presents open for half the night and couldn¡¯t put them down. He could only reluctantly put his gift down near dawn.


    The winter night was long. He could only taste the bitterness of a short spring night.


    At seven o¡¯clock in the morning, Sun Zinan struggled to open his eyes. He tried to sit up with two dark circles under his eyes. When he moved, his joints cracked, as if he had been beaten all night. The parts of his body below his waist did not listen to his orders. His legs were still faintly cramping. The other side of the half was cold; Tang Kai should have gone to work.


    Sun Zinan¡¯s mouth was dry. He looked all over the ce for a cup of water without avail and had to silently condemn Tang Kai in his heart for this ruthless behavior. He began dragging his body, which was about to fall apart, in order to get out of bed.


    At this time, the bedroom door was pushed open from the outside. Tang Kai quickly walked over, holding a cup of water in one hand. The other hand pushed his leg back into bed. ¡°You lie there obediently.¡±


    Sun Zinan reached for the water. Tang Kai half hugged him as he waited for him to finish the cup of water. He then pressed his hand against his forehead and tested his temperature. ¡°You have a little low fever, don¡¯t get out of bed today.¡±


    ¡°Do I?¡± Sun Zinan himself didn¡¯t feel it and didn¡¯t take it too seriously. He said, ¡°There¡¯s no breakfast today, you¡¯ll have to go to the school canteen.¡±


    ¡°I took leave. I won¡¯t go to school today.¡± Tang Kai asked him to lie down t and turn over. He put his hands under the quilt and slowly rubbed his back, asking warmly, ¡°Where is it ufortable? What do you want to eat? I¡¯ll order delivery.¡±


    After the event, tenderness was as important as forey. Sun Zinany on Tang Kai¡¯s thigh, and his aching back muscles were pushed from top to bottom by his warm palms. He hummed, sleepily closing his eyes. ¡°Whatever is fine.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Tang Kai was full of gentleness, feeling like he had the entire world to himself. At this point, he would be willing to even pick the stars to make soup for him. He coaxed softly, ¡°If you¡¯re sleepy then keep sleeping. I¡¯ll call you when the food is here.¡±


    Sun Zinan turned over and yawned. ¡°You don¡¯t want to sleep with me?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be right there.¡± The first thing Tang Kai had seen were red marks all over his chest. He immediately repented by averting his gaze, covering him with his quilt in guilt when he suddenly heard Sun Zinan, who had closed his eyes, mutter something under his breath.


    He leaned over and asked, ¡°En? What did you say?¡±


    Sun Zinan forced himself to open his drowsy eyes, about to sumb to the strong force of his sleepiness. He whispered in his ear, ¡°I said, your behaviorst night was pretty good. You can be less obedient tonight.¡±

 Chapter 39 - The Person Standing in Front of Him was His Beloved

    <h4>Chapter 39 - The Person Standing in Front of Him was His Beloved</h4>


    When he woke up again at ten in the morning, Sun Zinan was alive once more. He felt a little better and didn¡¯t want to eat in the bedroom, so he slowly rose up while supporting his waist and drank a small bowl of porridge before being quickly driven back to bed by Tang Kai.


    He had a fever after the first time he slept with someone; this made the rookie driver very nervous. Although Sun Zinan repeatedly stressed that this was an individual difference because he was much more likely to get sick over the smallest things, Tang Kai was still chasing his tail anxiously. He acted like a filial son, pouring tea and water in the front of Sun Zinan¡¯s bed. He held his breath in fear, afraid that he¡¯d blow something over if he spoke. Sun Zinan had originally wanted it to be quiet, but was bothered by him moving around until his head was about to explode.


    Tang Kai put a thermos on the nightstand, chasing him around like a mother hen and asking, ¡°Do you want to drink some hot water? Don¡¯t show your shoulders, put your hands back, it¡¯ll be too cold.¡±


    The son was both hungry and cold. ¡°I just have a slight cold,¡± Sun Zinan said helplessly. ¡°Would you please stop acting like I¡¯m having a baby?¡±


    Tang Kai was probably going stupid from his baseless anxiety. ¡°You have to drink hot water when you¡¯re pregnant. Drink this cup of water while it is hot. I¡¯ll go boil some more.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    ¡°Okay okay, stop circling around me.¡± He said weakly, ¡°Honey, darling, all of our country¡¯s scientific progress is resting on your shoulders. I can¡¯t afford to dy that; just take it as your husband begging you, please go to work this afternoon.¡±


    ¡°...¡± Tang Kai looked at him numbly, silent for a while before asking, ¡°Is this another kind of ruthlessness? So cruel?¡±


    The two of them stared at each other for three seconds, then suddenly startedughing.


    The awkward embarrassment and bewilderment they had towards each other since that morning finally disappeared and turned into a daily warmth.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you that you did well? What are you still panicking about?¡± Sun Zinan pulled one of Tang Kai¡¯s hands over and yed with it. ¡°Are you worried I was just being polite?¡±


    ¡°No, not that.¡± Tang Kai seemed a little embarrassed, his thumb unconsciously rubbing at the blue vessels on his wrist. He thought for a while before admitting, ¡°I might have been a little overenthusiastic.¡±


    Sun Zinanughed out loud without leaving him any face.


    ¡°There are four joys in life. It¡¯s normal to go overboard.¡± He finishedughing and patted Tang Kai¡¯s hand gently. ¡°Since you¡¯re done overreacting now, can you let me rest for a bit?¡±


    Tang Kai raised his brows and said cunningly, ¡°I¡¯ve finally been able to take leave. I can¡¯t waste it. What do you want to eat for dinner? I¡¯ll cook for you?¡±


    Sun Zinan had met his enemy. ¡°You dare? I¡¯ll call the police.¡±


    In the blink of an eye it was New Year¡¯s Day. As per tradition, Tang Kai¡¯s neighborhoodmittee held an annualpetition of chess and cards. It was said that the prizes were rich, including a massage apparatus, a rice cooker, a foot bath, and other such items.


    When Sun Zinan went out to buy food the day before yesterday, he had chatted with a grandmother downstairs. The enthusiasm of the other party was difficult to parry, and somehow in his confusion, he was roped into participating. When Tang Kai came home, the two of them came together and realized he had also been fooled, mostly because Professor Tang really wanted a massager for his home.


    Sun Zinan said in despair, ¡°Why can¡¯t you be a good little dignified university professor instead of fighting for a massager with a bunch of elderly people.¡±


    Tang Kai replied, ¡°You¡¯re the unprofessional one! A healthcare product salesman brainwashed by an olddy, how shameful!¡±


    This sentence sessfully infuriated Sun Zinan. That night, Professor Tang regretfully ate a table of stir-fried celery, bean sprouts, and corn kernels.


    On the day of thepetition, the two of them dressed up and snuck over to themunity center in defeat. Sun Zinan faced the A4 white paper print of the event on the wall and frowned for a while before carefully saying, ¡°I must be crazy,ing over to y with a bunch of school geniuses...I¡¯ll just sign up for Fight the Landlord, at least I know it.¡±


    Tang Kai said, ¡°Then I¡¯ll do the same.¡±


    The auntie responsible for the event registration asked enthusiastically, ¡°Are you only signing up for one event? A person can sign up for up to three events! There¡¯s a participation award, a bag ofundry detergent. Won¡¯t this save you the effort of buying it? Don¡¯t waste this chance!¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°Thank you, there¡¯s no&#k2026;¡±


    He didn¡¯t finish before the auntie interrupted, ¡°Young man, you won¡¯t y checkers? The sign-ups for this aren¡¯t filled yet, I¡¯ll put it down for you. Anyways all the contestants are little kids. You can win top three with your eyes closed.¡±


    Sun Zinan looked at Tang Kai¡¯s pinched look and was very amused. He couldn¡¯t restrain hisughter.


    Tang Kai wasn¡¯t satisfied with being the only person rolling in the mud. He had to pull Sun Zinan into the water with him and immediately dragged him over to the aunt. ¡°This is my partner, please take a look. What event should he participate in?¡±


    Sun Zinan secretly elbowed him.


    ¡°Then how about this, fun puzzles, okay?¡± The auntie wrote Sun Zinan¡¯s name neatly into the sign-up sheet. ¡°Both of you can register for one more event.¡±


    ¡°No, two is enough.¡± Sun Zinan said sincerely, ¡°Thank you elder sister, we don¡¯tck anyundry detergent. We should leave that opportunity to the people after us.¡±


    The auntie was teased into smiling andplimented how sweet and handsome he was. Sun Zinan¡¯s self-rescue was sessful and he stealthily pulled Tang Kai away.


    The Fight the Landlord match was a single elimination system. There were three people at each table and each match had three rounds. Everyone had an initial score of ten points and the score was recalcted at the end of every round. The one with the highest score would enter the next round. Sun Zinan tried to avoid sitting at the same table with Tang Kai early on, but in thest four groups, the two of them were inevitably divided into the same group.


    Tang Kai had good cards this round and called thendlord position. Sun Zinan and another young father were the peasants. Sun Zinan quickly calcted the scoreboard in his mind. Tang Kai¡¯s ranking was roughly ninth, while he was eleventh or twelfth. In the next round, only the top nine would get promoted. Both of their scores were at a dangerous spot; whoever lost this round would be directly eliminated.


    Sun Zinan¡¯s base score was low. The young father in his team happened to be seventh ce. If in this match Tang Kai won three rounds in a row, his ranking would soar to fifth or sixth ce and he would win a lot.


    Sun Zinan could just act as a pawn to send Tang Kai to victory.


    He looked at Professor Tang¡¯s focused side profile and wondered to himself, this was obviously just a little neighborhood match. He wouldn¡¯t lose his house if he lost this game. How did ite to such self-sacrifice tactics?


    But winning or losing was not within his consideration. He just wanted to coax Tang Kai into happiness by helping him achieve his desired massager.


    After this round, Tang Kai was promoted and Sun Zinan was eliminated.


    While the tables were being changed, Tang Kai leaned over and whispered, ¡°Did you lose on purpose?¡±


    Sun Zinan nced at him faintly and said as if nothing had happened, ¡°With your advanced skills, do you still need others to lose on purpose?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true.¡± Tang Kai patted him on the shoulder and said solemnly, ¡°Don¡¯t be sad, wait for me to win that massager for you.¡±


    Sun Zinan looked baffled. ¡°What do I have to be sad about? What use do I have for it?¡±


    Tang Kai said righteously, ¡°To give you a massage. Ah, don¡¯t you often feel back pain?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    Damn, what a sore spot.


    He rolled up the paper tube in his hand and bitterly knocked on Tang Kai¡¯s forehead as he gritted his teeth and said, ¡°Who¡¯s to me for that? You still have the face to say!¡±


    Although Director Sun had devoted his life to love, it was a pity Professor Tang¡¯s skills did not live up to expectations. Eventually, with a very small margin, he became runner-up and won a small rice cooker.


    In front of others, he had always seemed aloof and refused to take a group picture with the rice cooker. He could only hold it in one hand and stand there with a cold gaze, letting the staff take an individual picture of himself.


    After taking a look at the photo, the background didn¡¯t even need to be mentioned. That ethereal temperament, that out of body expression, it was like a tall male model carrying a Louis Vuitton rice cooker.


    Sun Zinan posted the photo to his WeChat moments and came up to him contentedly. ¡°A rice pot with a rice scooper. Congrats, I¡¯ll use it to make rice for you today.¡±


    Tang Kai took the two bags ofundry detergent from his hands and the two walked home slowly together. ¡°You cheapskate, we could¡¯ve won a massager.¡±


    Sun Zinan squinted at him. ¡°Why not have me have a try? Afterwards I¡¯ll buy you a massager.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s too hard. How could I let you do anybor?¡± Tang Kai immediately said, ¡°You better lie there and just enjoy it.¡±


    As they spoke, the two of them entered his apartment.


    The weather had not been good since that morning. Even until now, the sky was overcast like it was about to snow. The room was dim; it was brighter closer to the window, but the other parts were shrouded in the darkness of the approaching night.


    Tang Kai carried the rice cooker into the kitchen and readily turned the lights on to unpack it. He turned back to ask Sun Zinan, ¡°Darling, where should I put this pot?¡±


    Since Sun Zinan moved in, the small kitchen had be his territory. The originally empty counter now held a lot of things. In ordance with the Virgo standard, they were all lined up in a legion of bottles and cans.


    Tang Kai didn¡¯t dare touch anything in the fear of messing it up. He had to temporarily put the rice cooker in the only open space and beckoned Sun Zinan over to see.


    The kitchen was very old and small. There was only one light bulb on the ceiling. At this moment, it suddenly flickered unstably several times.


    Sun Zinan rolled his sleeves up and entered the kitchen. ¡°Let me do it, you¡ª¡±


    The sound of his words didn¡¯t evennd before a bang sounded above, as if something had exploded on the ceiling. The lights went out instantly and the kitchen fell into darkness. Sun zinan stunned expression has not yet frozen, he has not even reacted to what happened, Tang Kai rushed to hold him, after the back to the sky posture, his whole person firmly protected in his arms.


    The broken ss sttered around them like rain.


    The two of them were both stunned.


    It was difficult to say what motivated someone to choose to use his own body to protect another in that 0.1 seconds it takes to recognize danger. Or perhaps he hadn¡¯t realized what was about to happen, but instinct told him to rush over without time to think¡ª


    Sun Zinan was still standing by his side.


    The two of them stayed in this posture for more than ten seconds under the dim winter sky, until Sun Zinan¡¯s handfortingly patted him twice on his back and said, ¡°It¡¯s okay. It should be the bulb that blew up. Come here and I¡¯ll see if the ss has hit you.¡±


    Tang Kai shook his head and brushed off the ss pieces. He turned Sun Zinan around in his arms and pushed him out the door. ¡°Let¡¯s go out first. The ss flew everywhere. It¡¯s too dark to see, let¡¯s not use the kitchen today.¡±


    Sun Zinan looked back at him almost in a daze. His lips moved, as if he had something to say, but he remained silent.


    In the brightly lit living room, Sun Zinan ced Tang Kai on the sofa and poked around his cor, carefully checking again. Only until after he had confirmed there were no scratches did he stop feeling uneasy. He sat down next to him and asked, ¡°What were you thinking?¡±


    It was just a light bulb today, but it could be an explosion next time.


    But just from listening to that sound, who could tell whether it was a light bulb or a gas explosion?


    ¡®Love desperation¡¯ was usually used to describe a state of full-heartedmitment, a love that extended beyond life and death...but love was an illusory thing while life was the real deal.


    Tang Kai replied very sinctly, ¡°I didn¡¯t think of anything.¡±


    He used to be suspicious, thinking himself some kind of Sherlock Holmes, and had thought that one day he would fall for someone else, or even throw his reason aside to use his back to block an explosion or his chest to block a gun.


    But what could he do?


    The person standing in front of him at that moment was his beloved.


    ¡°The hero saved a beauty, he deserves a reward. I think someone should kiss me right now.¡± Tang Kai changed the topic and poked Sun Zinan. ¡°Ai, take the initiative. I¡¯ve been waiting here for a long time.¡±


    Sun Zinan stared at him for a long time. ¡°You...¡±


    He sighed, then got up from the couch. He ced his hands around Tang Kai¡¯s shoulder and kissed him.


    The first snow of the winter finally fell slowly from the dark sky. The cold wind whistled outside the window, and on the narrow sofa in the living room, the two of them entangled together, warm almost to the point of sweating.


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°Did it scare you?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Do you particrly love me now?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°What if there¡¯s no dinner today?¡±


    ¡°You can eat me.¡±

 Chapter 40 - The End

    <h4>Chapter 40 - The End</h4>


    In the blink of an eye, the Lunar New Year came. Tang Kai¡¯s parents were too busy with work and it was toote for them to rush back over the holiday. Anyways, Tang Kai had someone to apany him this year, so they didn¡¯t have to worry.


    The fate of the world was really a miracle. They only met for the first timest April and felt that the other was a pain in the ass. Who would have expected that from spring to autumn, then to winter, they would live together under the same roof like an intimate couple.


    On New Year¡¯s Eve, although they were only two people, Sun Zinan still made an entire table¡¯s worth of a hearty New Year¡¯s Eve dinner. Tang Kai clumsily helped him fold dumplings. Sun Zinan repeatedly emphasized that they could be ugly, but the filling absolutely could not leak out. This made Tang Kai too afraid to boldly put in filling, and the dumplings came out extremely t.


    Although Sun Zinan was busy, he was in a very good mood. While he cooked the dumplings, heughed at him. ¡°When ites out of the pot it¡¯ll be so ugly you won¡¯t even be able to eat it.¡±


    ¡°Only you can eat these exclusive secret love dumplings.¡± Tang Kai said, ¡°I advise you to praise it quickly, otherwise it will be even more painful to eatter.¡±


    When Sun Zinan heard this, he almost hit him with theder. ¡°It¡¯s the New Year, don¡¯t fight me.¡±


    Tang Kai handed him a te with a smile.


    In the evening of the Spring Festival, when the countdown to the end of the year came, the food was ready and there were no firecrackers outside. The quiet neighborhood was still, and the distant sounds of gongs and drums added a little excitement to the house. Their phones would not stop vibrating. They were all New Year greeting messages from all the people they knew, but the two of them didn¡¯t bother with them and each took a bowl of dumplings before sitting at the table.


    Tang Kai poured a ss of wine for each of them and raised his ss for a toast. He addressed Sun Zinan solemnly. ¡°In this new year, I hope my darling will have a peaceful life and be healthy. I hope all will be well. No matter what happens in the future, good or bad, I will always be with you.¡±


    Sun Zinan was slightly started, then couldn¡¯t suppress the smile spreading across his face. He raised his ss and gently toasted back, ¡°Happy New Year, I love you.¡±


    ¡°I love you, too,¡± Tang Kai replied. ¡°Happy New Year.¡±


    In this past year, Sun Zinan had registered a new investmentpany in S City called ¡®Guanshan Investment.¡¯ The registered capital was 50 million and he invested in half of it, bing both a shareholder and a board director.


    Thepany was mainly for Fu Tingxin¡¯s hot pot shop to do foreign investments. It sounded very impressive, but mainly just invested inpanies that sold sweet potato noodles and enoki mushrooms. Most of thesepanies were under the banner of ¡®so-and-so biologypany,¡¯ which always made Sun Zinan feel like he had gone back to his roots.


    Only Tang Kai felt very gratified after hearing about it. ¡°You¡¯re finally doing regr business, and it¡¯s better than cornstalks. I think it¡¯s pretty good being the director of enoki mushrooms.¡±


    ¡°Why does it sound so bad when you say it like that? Who¡¯s the enoki mushroom?¡± Sun Zinan grasped Tang Kai by the back of his neck. ¡°Come back here!¡±


    The two of them wereughing and running around making a mess when Sun Zinan¡¯s phone suddenly rang.


    He pressed Tang Kai against the wall and checked his phone screen. It was his second eldest brother, Sun Ziqing. He did not shy away from Tang Kai and picked up the call in front of him. ¡°Hello, who is it?¡±


    ¡°Little Nan, it¡¯s me.¡±


    Sun Ziyuan¡¯s voice came from the other end of the phone. ¡°I couldn¡¯t get through to you, so I borrowed your second brother¡¯s phone.¡±


    ¡°Oh,¡± Sun Zinan said without any remorse, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I blocked you and forgot to change it.¡±


    Sun Ziyuan did not care about these details and went straight to the point. ¡°Dad is sick and in the hospital. It¡¯s pretty serious. Are you going to go see him?¡±


    Sun Zinan shook as he heard this, and unconsciously pinched Tang Kai.


    For a moment Tang Kai looked into his dazed eyes and thought he had been stunned, but in the next second, Sun Zinan replied, ¡°If he¡¯s sick then have him go see the doctor. What¡¯s the point of me going, it¡¯s not like I can cure him.¡±


    ¡°Little Nan, don¡¯t be like this to him at this time.¡± Sun Ziyuan said, ¡°He¡¯s your father. You¡¯ve been out for so long, you should calm down now.¡±


    Sun Zinan had no words for a moment and endured the urge to curse at Sun Ziyuan. ¡°Director Sun, do you know what &#k2018;cutting off our rtionship¡¯ means? Do you still think of me as a schoolboy who has run away from home because of no pocket money?¡±


    ¡°Before, when I recognized him as my father, he didn¡¯t recognize me as his son. Now that I don¡¯t want to have a rtionship with him you guys think I¡¯m his son again?¡± Sun Zinan said, ¡°If your words go up and down, you¡¯ll touch both sides of the coin. What¡¯s the point of calling when you could have just ordered a bodyguard toe drag me away?¡±


    Sun Ziyuan was provoked into a heart full of fire and he said rigidly, ¡°You don¡¯t have to act so sinisterly towards me. Dad is the one who has been calling for you. Figure it out yourself.¡±


    Sun Zinan said ¡°oh¡± very meaningfully. ¡°So it¡¯s the old man who made the holy orders. Then why didn¡¯t you just say it at the beginning, but beat around the bush with your familial love cards. Is it interesting?¡±


    Sun Ziyuan, ¡°...¡±


    ¡°Give me the address, I¡¯ll go when I¡¯m free tomorrow.¡± Sun Zinan added coldly, ¡°Is there anything else? If not, then I¡¯m hanging up.¡±


    After that, he didn¡¯t even give Sun Ziyuan the opportunity to speak before directly hanging up the phone.


    Tang Kai looked at his sudden, dark expression and took the initiative to hold him into his arms. He bowed his head and asked, ¡°Should I apany you tomorrow?¡±


    ¡°En.¡± Sun Zinan reached around his waist and said, ¡°What do you think he¡¯s up to this time?¡±


    Tang Kai joked, ¡°He¡¯s not going to give you 5 million to make you leave me, right?¡±


    Sun Zinan did not make a sound for a while. Tang Kai¡¯s heart thumped. ¡°Darling, are you considering it?¡±


    ¡°Go to hell.¡± Sun Zinan was angered intoughing. He squeezed his waist slightly. ¡°5 million is too cheap. Can you please have some shame?¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Tang Kai bowed slightly and suddenly swept his feet off the ground as he said reluctantly, ¡°Shouldn¡¯t your answer be you won¡¯t leave me no matter how much money you get?!¡±


    ¡±Yes, yes, yes.¡± Sun Zinan said coaxingly, ¡°This strong man, can you put me down? If you tickle me again, I¡¯ll divorce you for 5 million!¡±


    The topic turned eight hundred meters away, like a brief breeze blowing away the fog in his heart.


    In fact, Sun Zinan was not actually willing to maliciously specte Sun Ying¡¯s motivations. It was like grabbing a de with an empty hand to hurt someone; it would only end up hurting everyone involved, including himself. He sometimes felt that he had already let go of everything, but feelings were not something that could be cut out like pork at a butcher¡¯s¡ªcutting off a few kilograms wouldn¡¯t just cut off a few kilograms; his blood would still flow out.


    The next day was a holiday. Tang Kai drove Sun Zinan to the hospital entrance, but did not intend to apany him up.


    It seemed like he was just the role of a driver all in the end. ¡°Your father probably won¡¯t want to see me. Go, I¡¯ll wait for you here.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Sun Zinan untied his seat belt and leaned over to kiss his cheek. ¡°I¡¯ll be back soon.¡±


    Tang Kai watched him walk away, until Sun Zinan¡¯s figure disappeared behind the hospital¡¯s ss door. Only then did he lean back against his seat and let out a light and slow, long sigh.


    As the man standing next to Sun Zinan, it was an indisputable fact that his perspective was biased. To tell the truth, Tang Kai did not think Sun Ying had wanted to call Sun Zinan over due to a sudden surge of affection. A person¡¯s kindness was difficult to keep consistent. Maliciousness was much easier. Repentance was not a simple thing, especially for Sun Ying, who had always regarded him as someone above all others in his long years of authority.


    The 5 million that day was not just a joke. Sun Zinan definitely wouldn¡¯t put 5 million in his eyes, but what if it was several tens of millions? Or the chair position of Hongsen Group?


    In the past, he did not get the attention he wanted, and those demons had troubled him for years....The bell-bearer would now release the bell himself; would Sun Zinan obediently kneel down and plead for relief, or would he rather live his life with regrets and scars?


    Tang Kai did not dare to guess anymore.


    He opened a small gap in the window. The March wind, wrapped in the scent of moist dirt, scattered into the car.


    The message of spring seemed to fleetingly pass his ear, still confined within the not-yet-dissipated winter chill.


    Sun Ying was staying in a three-room special ward. Sun Zinan waited for the other side to sign him in before going up the elevator and arriving at the ward on the fifth floor.


    He put his phone in his pocket and raised his hand to ring the doorbell.


    The electronic lock automatically clicked open. Sun Ying¡¯s voice rang from the inside. ¡°Come in.¡±


    Sun Zinan went through the door and found that Secretary Wang Tian, Sun Ying, and a man in a suit and tie who was holding a folder and a voice recorder in his hand were all present in the room.


    Seeing hime over, the man took the initiative to nod at him. ¡°Hello, Mr. Sun, I am awyermissioned by older Mr. Sun. Myst name is Cao.¡±


    ¡°Hello Lawyer Cao.¡± Sun Zinan nodded at him, then turned to Sun Ying. ¡°What are you looking for me for?¡±


    Sun Ying had grown a lot older in the few months he hadn¡¯t seen him. His face looked slightly ill; he used to be a hearty old man, but now he seemed like he was slightly decaying.


    He had had a sessful career in this life, and had enjoyed his wealth. He had lived nothing short of a winner¡¯s life, and should have beenfortably retired, but for various reasons, he had been exhausted by his worrying children.


    So there was some truth in saying that some children were debts, and some government bonds.


    ¡°I called you here today to tell you about the will.¡± Sun Ying did not mention familial rtions with him and directly went straight to the subject. As if he had practiced it many times before, he said clearly, ¡°I have 38 percent of shares under my name. I¡¯m nning on leaving you 22 percent, and the remaining 16 percent will be equally divided among your siblings. You will be the biggest shareholder to take over as chairman of Hongsen Group.¡±


    Sun Zinan listened to this, without any excitement or joy on his face. He didn¡¯t say thank you and just looked at him quietly.


    As expected, Sun Ying really did have a condition.


    ¡°The condition is that you are not allowed to be with Tang Kai.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± Sun Zinan¡¯s brows raised, finally showing a different expression. He asked with interest, ¡°How can you guarantee that I will be obedient and won¡¯t take your money to support Tang Kai?¡±


    Mr. Cao coughed gently next to him, signaling that he wasn¡¯t just standing there to be a coat-hanger.


    ¡°The will has additional conditions. Once it is found that you and Tang Kai have a de facto marriage rtionship, the execution will be immediately suspended and you won¡¯t get a single penny.¡± Sun Ying said, ¡°Zinan, in front of you is not 50 thousand or a million; it¡¯s nearly 10 billion dors from the group. You might not even be able to earn this much even if you struggled for an entire lifetime. Tang Kai is good to you, but he is also a poor teacher. Can love be eaten? Can you guarantee that he will never change his heart? Shares are real money; if I give you them, others cannot take them away. Consider your choice carefully.¡±


    As his voicended, the entire ward fell into a frozen silence.


    Lawyer Cao and Wang Tian, the two outsiders, were so nervous that their hearts were racing, holding their breath as the two people facing each other did not move. At this moment, the father and son looked exactly the same, like they had been carved out of the same mold.


    After a long time, Sun Zinan finally couldn¡¯t keep his expression neutral anymore and startedughing. ¡°What luck, I¡¯ve learned the questions before the exam.¡±


    Although the other three were stunned, he didn¡¯t exin what he meant. Sun Zinan continued, ¡°Chairman Sun, didn¡¯t your elementary school teacher teach you that money can¡¯t buy friendship or love?¡±


    Sun Ying, ¡°...¡±


    ¡°When I left, I already told you to do whatever you want with the inheritance. I didn¡¯te up to you to ask for it, so why do you have to act so undignified, splitting the shares and even hiring awyer? Will the world end if you don¡¯t give them to me?¡±


    ¡°I used to listen to you and was willing to be threatened by your inheritance because I wanted you to look at me and recognize me, to think of me as your flesh and blood son. But you only thought of me as a paid catfish.¡± Sun Zinan said, ¡°Now that I don¡¯t want anything and am ready to start a new life, you want to try to force me to turn back.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s not beat around the bush. Why did you suddenly figure out that you wanted me back to pick up your work, did you finally decide I was your son?¡±


    Sun Ying¡¯s body was stiff, fighting back his rising anger as he nodded.


    ¡°Bullshit.¡± Sun Zinan mercilessly debunked him. ¡°You just felt like the authority of the head of the family had been challenged, and wanted to put me back under your control. If you use force as bait, I¡¯ll break up with Tang Kai. Without the Tang family backing me, I¡¯ll have to live off of you. Isn¡¯t that how it is? You¡¯re even pretending to be a fatherly figure, Dad.¡±


    Sun Ying was speechless.


    Sun Zinan had exposed the truth. He wanted to yell, to exhaust all the bad words in his vocabry to use this bastard, but he was really too old; saying a few words took up his breath and left him no strength to continue cursing. What was more was that he was the first to suggest that Sun Zinan should break up with Tang Kai for the inheritance. Others were at the scene, and would definitely think he was ckmailing him.


    ¡°Get out,¡± Sun Ying took in a forceful breath, quivering as he pointed at the door and shouted, ¡°I don¡¯t have a son like you, get out!¡±


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯m leaving now.¡± Sun Zinan promised him in a very rxed manner, then put his hand back into his pocket to take out his phone for everyone to see.


    The screen that should have been automatically locked was actually on, showing an ongoing WeChat call.


    Wang Tian took in a cold breath.


    ¡°Wait a minute, let me recite the answer I should have said earlier.¡± Sun Zinan smiled at Sun Ying and said politely, ¡°Thank you for your love, chairman. But I will never leave Tang Kai, no matter how much money you give me. Thank you.¡±


    Sun Ying, ¡°...¡±


    Professor Tang, who had been clutching at his phone and listening to the conversation the entire time, sprawled himself over the steering wheel and covered his hot face with his hands.


    Sun Zinan finished the dog food without any burden and prepared himself to listen to his father¡¯s words onest time before going out. When he got to the door, he suddenly remembered something and turned to Sun Ying to say, ¡°By the way, the next time you try to fool people, remember not to use something as obvious as 22. Your precious children already have 13 percent of the existing shares. Adding that with the 16 percent, they will be the major shareholders. Addition and subtraction of numbers under a hundred are still math problems for elementary school. I hope the chairman doesn¡¯t treat everyone else like a fool. I¡¯m leaving. I wish you good health.¡±


    This time, he walked out without nostalgia and feeling particrly rxed, as if he had finally, personally cut off thest chain tied to himself.


    Injury and pain were regretful, but life couldn¡¯t be polished without struggles, breakthroughs, stubbornness and pain...All those branches formed the veins of his life. He would never confine himself to a pot just because of a little fertilizer, even if the pot was made with pure gold.


    Downstairs in front of the hospital. Tang Kai sat in the car, his heart pounding from Sun Zinan¡¯s public deration of love. He admitted that he was a young man who had been carried away by love; he wanted to recklessly go into the hospital right now and run away to the ends of the earth with his sweetheart.


    As he was in this trance, the sound of two knocks came from the car window.


    Tang Kai suddenly woke up from his fantasy and readily pulled the window down. He saw Sun Zinan standing outside, well-dressed as he supported himself with one hand against the car roof. He leaned down and asked solemnly, ¡°Master, do you want to go to the Civil Affairs Bureau?¡±


    On this clear and sunny day, the hint of a breeze seemed to be warmer as it brushed past the smile on his lips.


    Spring had finallye.


    <b>t/n:</b> the next andst chapter (an extra) has also been posted!

 Chapter 41 - Extra: Proposal

    <h4>Chapter 41 - Extra: Proposal</h4>


    One day in May, 5 minutes to 9 P.M.


    When Sun Zinan came out of the shower, he noticed his phone vibrating. He nced and saw that the caller was Tang Kai, so casually picked it up. ¡°Hello?¡±


    A hesitant female voice came across. ¡°...Hello?¡±


    Sun Zinan: ?


    The voice stumbled, sounding very unnatural as if it was struggling to fight back augh. ¡°Excuse me, are you Professor Tang¡¯s...um, sweetheart baby fruit?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    Tang Kai, this shameless sand sculpture. Forget about him secretly giving him this shameful nickname, he even put it in other people¡¯s hands. If Sun Zinan hadn¡¯t know what kind of person he was, he would havebeled him some kind of inte troll.


    ¡°I¡¯m Tang Kai¡¯s boyfriend.¡± Sun Zinan forced himself to push away this page from the past and feigned calmness as he said, ¡°Why is his phone with you?¡±


    ¡°Oh, oh...¡± The woman said hurriedly, ¡°It¡¯s like this. Our colleagues had dinner outside tonight at a hotel and the male employees all had a little too much to drink. We don¡¯t know where he lives, could youe pick him up?¡±


    Sun Zinan gave a small sigh. ¡°Okay, I got it. Give me the address and I¡¯ll be right there. We¡¯ve troubled you.¡±


    The female teacher hung up the phone and locked it before giving it back to Tang Kai, who was so drunk he couldn¡¯t even open his eyes. With a helpless face, she continued to call the family members of the next male professor.


    Tang Kai clutched his phone and stumbled against the back of his chair to sleep for a while. Maybe because he was ufortable, it wasn¡¯t very practical to sleep. He shook his head irritatedly and squinted his drunk eyes. He tapped away at his phone and somehow magically managed to hit Sun Zinan¡¯s name in the call records.


    ¡°Hello? ¡±


    Sun Zinan¡¯s voice came from the handset. Tang Kai dizzily held up the phone in front of him like it was a video call. ¡°Nan Nan...en? Where are you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m driving,¡± said Sun Zinan. ¡°Did you drink too much? Wait a moment, I¡¯lle pick you up.¡±


    Professor Tang had a strong sense of safety procedures. ¡°If you¡¯re driving don¡¯t drink, if you¡¯re drinking don¡¯t drive...darling, stay there obediently, don¡¯t drive. Your husband wille pick you up.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    He had to admit that although Professor Tang was quite dumb at the moment, when he was drunk, he lowered his voice until it was even more maic and deep. It had quite the killer strength; even the hairs on the back of Sun Zinan¡¯s neck were standing up.


    Fortunately, the hotel was not too far from their home and it was only a short drive away. Sun Zinan went directly into the private room. This group of people really seemed like they had drunk too much; some were lying down while others were sprawled all over. The only person sitting upright in this entire scene was his family¡¯s Professor Tang.


    Sun Zinan walked over, bent down, and put a finger up in front of him and shook it. He smiled. ¡°Can you still recognize who I am?¡±


    Tang Kai lifted his eyelids and looked at him, seemingly recognizing who he was. Without saying anything, he opened his arms and hugged him into his embrace, murmuring, ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid, don¡¯t bother with them. I¡¯ll take you home.¡±


    Sun Zinan almost fell over on him. He steadied himself against the back of the chair with a great amount of effort. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t tease you...let¡¯s go, can you stand up?¡±


    Tang Kai was very obedient. His drunken reactions weren¡¯t slow and he stood up dazedly. He was pulled out of the room like a small child. He could walk normally, his legs functioning properly, but he couldn¡¯t walk in a straight line. Sun Zinan guided him by his waist to correct the direction he was walking in, and the two of them walked out of the elevator and went to the parking lot outside the hotel.


    Sun Zinan pulled out a coat from the back seat and threw it into his arms, pushing Tang Kai into the shotgun seat. ¡°Put some clothes on, don¡¯t catch a cold.¡±


    There was the hint of perfume on the coat. The two of them had lived together for a long time; the clothes in their closet had been tinted with the same scent and it was difficult to distinguish between their clothing. Tang Kai held the coat and intently stared at Sun Zinan, as he concentrated on driving, as if he were using his eyes to trace the sight of a rare treasure. This directness made Sun Zinan ufortable, and he couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°Why are you looking at me?¡±


    Tang Kai said honestly, ¡°You¡¯re attractive.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°You¡¯re not allowed to look, shut your eyes.¡±


    Tang Kai, ¡°What, does it cost money to look at you?¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t cost money for you.¡± Sun Zinan turned the steering wheel and couldn¡¯t resist smiling as he said, ¡°But you¡¯re distracting me from driving, so you¡¯re not allowed to look.¡±


    Tang Kai ¡®hmphed¡¯ gently and turned his head to mutter to himself. ¡°Why am I not allowed to look at my wife?¡±


    Sun Zinan didn¡¯t hear him clearly. ¡°What?¡±


    Tang Kai shut his eyes childishly and ignored him.


    The car drove into the small garden. Sun Zinan woke up the drunkard and took him back into the apartment. The two of them had moved ces at the beginning of the year. Wisteria Road Number 22 was a single-family garden vi. It wasn¡¯t as close as the original little neighborhood, but it was only half an hour¡¯s drive from both Tianhai University and Sun Zinan¡¯s newpany.


    Sun Zinan had wanted this house for a while. The renovations wereplete, and they had just moved in this May. There was arge bathroom in the new house. Tang Kai was stripped clean and left soaking in the bathtub. Sun Zinan was afraid he would identally fall in and drown, so apanied him with a towel to wipe his back.


    The heat was dense; the bathroom warm. Tang Kai¡¯s muscr, strong upper body was exposed. His long and slender legs soaked in the water like a big merman. Beauty was beauty, but it just wasn¡¯t very obedient. It kept sshing the water like a naughty child. Sun Zinan was sshed all over and about to have a mental breakdown. ¡°Stay still.¡±


    Tang Kai turned over towards Sun Zinan and clutched his head, looking at him with pitiful eyes. ¡°Si...it hurts, how can I stay still?¡±


    ¡°...¡± Sun Zinan had no way to deal with this drunk childish brat and had to surrender. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have teased you, I was wrong, okay? Come here, husband will give you a massage.¡±


    Tang Kai blinked. ¡°Want hug.¡±


    ¡°Okay¡ª¡± Sun Zinanughed to himself, pushing his sleeves up and opening his arms. ¡°Come, husband will hug you.¡±


    Before his voicended, Tang Kai tugged him and he fell into the water with a ssh.


    Sun Zinan wiped the water off his face and gritted his teeth. ¡°Tang. Kai.¡±


    Tang Kai held him steadily and pressed fluttering kisses from his cheeks to the corner of his eyes. ¡°En, husband hug.¡±


    ¡°How much did you drink...¡± Sun Zinan had no other options left. He wiped the water drops from his brow. ¡°What good thing did you chance upon?¡±


    ¡°I want to be a full-timer.¡± Tang Kai said suddenly, ¡°Okay?¡±


    ¡°En?¡± Sun Zinan thought about it for a second and realized he was talking about bing a tenured professor from an associate professor. Since the beginning of the year, Tang Kai had been busy with papers and writing application materials. It seemed to have been for this matter. ¡°Okay, why not?¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    Sun Zinan thought to himself, it doesn¡¯t matter if I say so, go ask your school. But for now he could only pet this drunk¡¯s hair and say casually, ¡°Really. Your boss has approved it. You¡¯ll get a raise tomorrow, okay? Okay, don¡¯t sit here for too long, you¡¯ll faint.¡±


    He got up from the bathtub, dried the water on his body, and found arge towel to wrap around Tang Kai. While he dried his hair, he found that Tang Kai was staring at him unblinkingly with burning eyes. The eyes suddenly became very gentle, and he abruptly grabbed both sides of the bath towel to wrap Sun Zinan into his arms.


    ¡°Oh my god.¡± Sun Zinan was almost angered intoughing. ¡°How are you so clingy after just a bit of alcohol? You won¡¯t let go after hugging...be good.¡±


    Tang Kai buried his head into the crook of his neck like a big, spoiled cat. He said elegantly, ¡°Boss, I will perform well, trust me.¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°...¡±


    He must have gone crazy too; he actually thought this dummy was rather cute. So he raised his hand and stroked Tang Kai¡¯s back as he said jokingly, ¡°Yes, Professor, get dressed quickly¡ªdo you still want to be the Archimedes of biology?¡±


    The next day, Tang Kai woke up with a splitting headache. He sat up from his nkets and covered his head as he tried to recall the various floating gibberish in his fragmented memory. Just as he was going insane with his mind full of paste, Sun Zinan pushed the door open and gave him a ss of warm water. ¡°You¡¯re awake?¡±


    ¡°En.¡± Tang Kai took the cup and drank half the water. ¡°Last night...¡±


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s exactly what you think.¡± Sun Zinan said with a serious expression, ¡°Isn¡¯t this scene very familiar? Wait for me to light a cigarette while you stay in bed.¡±


    Tang Kai suddenly seemed like he had been struck by lightning and issued an incredulous sound. ¡°Ah?¡±


    Sun Zinan, ¡°Hahahahaha.¡±


    Tang Kai feebly fell back into bed. ¡°I knew it...you¡¯ve been plotting against me for a long time. Boss, give me a score. How did I do yesterday?¡±


    Sun Zinan hadughed enough. ¡°Actually your alcohol tolerance is okay. You didn¡¯t go crazy, but you pulled me around all night talking about full-time.¡±


    Tang Kai was puzzled. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Full-time, you said it yourself. You were as excited as a middle-schooler.¡± Sun Zinan suddenly bowed his head and leaned over, repressing his voice and saying, ¡°But when you be a tenured professor, if you act like your colleagues didst night, I will end you.¡±


    Tang Kai tried to argue. ¡°I don¡¯t...¡±


    Sun Zinan feigned a sinister expression and asked aggressively, ¡°Remember?¡±


    Tang Kai was shocked by this big brother¡¯s vitality and immediately bowed his head and said obediently, ¡°I remember.¡±


    Summer came quietly, imperceptibly.


    One evening, Sun Zinan received a phone call from Tang Kai on his way home from work. He asked him to help him find a book in the study, which was one of the most important materials for his tenure. Sun Zinan, afraid of dying his business, went straight to the study and pushed the door open, but was overwhelmed by arge pile of rose petals blowing towards him.


    Tang Kai was dressed in a formal suit and wearing golden-rimmed sses. He looked like he was attending an international academic conference. He got up from the chair behind his desk and walked through the rose-covered red carpet. He took Sun Zinan¡¯s hand and led him to a tall bookshelf.


    Sun Zinan was faintly aware of what Tang Kai was going to do, but he was caught off guard by the theatrics, and turned his head a little dazedly to look at him.


    ¡°There¡¯s a very important book here.¡± Tang Kai stood behind him, one hand around Sun Zinan¡¯s waist, one hand passing by the books. He tapped a book with a light gray cover. ¡°Would you like to see it?¡±


    Sun Zinan stretched his hand over and pulled the book out. It was called RNAi Basic Theory and Application.


    The book was not t; it seemed to have something in between its pages. Tang Kai took Sun Zinan¡¯s hand and turned to the first page. He said slowly behind him, ¡°This book is aption of some of my previous papers by a publishing house. This is my first published book. They sent me a sample today. They wanted me to write a postscript but I asked the editor if I could write a thank you note at the beginning. They agreed.¡±


    Sun Zinan heard the words and looked down at the page of white paper, which had a note written neatly with a fountain pen¡ª


    Dedicated to my partner Mr. Sun Zinan. You are my world outside of this world.


    Tang Kai said, ¡°I didn¡¯t drink, so now I have the courage to ask you while I¡¯m sober. Are you okay with your name being written in this thank you note?¡±


    This proposal really fit Professor Tang¡¯s personality. Sun Zinan stroked the line of writing through the back of the paper, thinking of the spring breeze not long ago and that intoxicated night. He suddenly realized that Tang Kai¡¯s ¡°full-time¡± wasn¡¯t just some drunken mumblings, but this meaning.


    He continued to flip through the pages of the book, and two tinum rings fell into his palm. One of the rings was smooth, and the other ring was embedded with a small diamond, engraved with their initials.


    T.K & S.Z.N


    Thest piece of the domino finally fell, and it happened so naturally. He seemed to have been waiting for many years. His heart had met many sour emotions, but at this moment, the marriage proposal became a cocoon protecting him from the wind, dust, ice and snow, revealing a new heaven.


    ¡°Haven¡¯t I already told you¡ª¡± Sun Zinan grabbed one of Tang Kai¡¯s hands and slowly pushed the ring onto his ring finger. ¡°The boss has already approved of your full-time position.¡±


    ¡°Of course, yes.¡± He put his arms around Tang Kai¡¯s neck and gave him a light kiss. ¡°I do.¡±


    You are my emotion outside of reason, my exception outside of convention.


    You are an unpredictable fate. You are a brand-new world outside of this world.


    I will thank your sincere intentions for the rest of our lives.


    <b>t/n:</b> and so ends fight thendlord, fall in love. thank you so so so much for reading and thank you everyone formenting and following me through this journey. this is the first novel i started tranting and i¡¯m really d others love it as much as i do! in a world full of heartbreak, pain, and loneliness, i hope everyone can find a sce within themselves and the support to find happiness, just like sun zinan did ??


    if you enjoyed this, please check out some other novels i¡¯m working on! have a great new year


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    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!